tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71434048039325484532012-01-18T11:10:35.170-06:00Showcasing handmade jewelry, stationery, and more from Rara Avis and other local Houston indie designers..."a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.comBlogger991100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-25643734148020198802012-01-17T19:38:00.000-06:002012-01-17T19:38:21.811-06:00

I'm digging anything with either the "gilded" or "antique gold" look or stuff that's old and busted. So here's my take on how to made a thrifted frame do both. Antique Gold Frame Supplies:  Work already in progress...sorry Wooden or plastic frame...plain or ornate Fine grit sandpaper (I used 320) Acrylic paint in dark brown and "vintage" gold Foam brush Paper towels Gloves Newspaper (

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-28802326758615008332012-01-17T09:17:00.008-06:002012-01-17T19:38:38.226-06:00

Stampington & Company, how I love thee... So after getting the Winter Issue of Create with Me Magazine, I was inspired to do my own version of the room plaques in the "A Room of My Own" article by Lori Oles. In the article, Oles does the artwork with her children (I'm assuming by their faces, they're older than my kiddo), but for my version, I did all the artwork and frame mods. I wanted

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-71679845095425581542011-10-13T15:31:00.002-06:002011-10-13T15:40:36.022-06:00

EUTECTIC and Happysun jewelry will soon be on display at Space in Montrose. Space is a great little boutique/shop that my friends and I stumbled upon last Saturday after having lunch at Cafe Brasil (yum!). Most of their products are handmade (awesome) and quite a few are local (even more awesome). In their own words, Space is "connecting artist, designers and innovators to the Houston community

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-74948228652665026372011-10-02T08:18:00.002-06:002011-10-02T08:19:46.257-06:00

I've got all the events for the Holiday season planned out. Check out the Events page for updated show dates.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-83937152554419194242011-10-02T07:57:00.003-06:002011-10-02T08:01:33.922-06:00

Thanks all for coming out to First Saturday Arts Market yesterday. The weather was great and the people were fantastic. Houston, you rock!Here are some pics of the new booth:Next weekend, I'm taking a break, but I'll be out at Discovery Green for the DG Flea on 10/15. I'll have all my fun recycled stuff (and some metalwork too). See you then!

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-60930517232438572132011-09-08T20:34:00.006-06:002011-09-08T21:03:27.378-06:00

So I'm not the world's biggest Harry Potter fan (haven't seen or read the last two books/movies...don't hate me), but I do like the franchise. And even if I didn't immediately recognize the Weasleys, this little necklace would be fun to wear anyway. The two little clones are a bit on the creepy side, but that's what makes them cute (to me anyway). There are only a few designs up in Sugar Land

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-60038090994939086172011-09-01T16:48:00.022-06:002011-09-08T21:03:39.516-06:00

What to do with all the hems that you cut off after making reusable grocery bags??? Make flowers! Here we go...STEP 1: Gather your supplies - You will need:The hem of a t-shirt (bottom or sleeve...I used a bottom here)Fabric scissorsBall point needle (any needle will work if you don't have a BP one)Heavy duty threadSTEP 2: Isolate the hem - Turn hem inside out and cut the excess fabric from the

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-70396723073230185972011-09-01T14:14:00.005-06:002011-09-01T14:48:51.938-06:00

So, I bought a "bag of rags" (unsold/stained t-shirts) for $4 from the Pennywise Resale Center in Richmond not too long ago. I was thinking that for $4 I'd get a grocery bag full of old T's, so I bought two. After paying for them, the ladies haul out two *GARBAGE* bags full of T's. Yikes! That's a lot of T-shirts! Some of them I made into rags...they were pretty yucky. But with the nicer

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-4834517325239321122011-08-30T14:33:00.025-06:002011-09-08T21:03:49.183-06:00

If you're a blog reader, I'm sure you've already stumbled across this post in one of my favorite blogs, Made By Joel:Slotted Building DiscsThese little guys are SO CUTE. The circle shape is great for making oddly shaped structures, and they're fairly easy for the kiddos to work with (my testers are 3 and 3.5 yrs old). I've got one or two sets lying around the house, and one in my daughter's

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-87957487309885192812011-08-25T19:47:00.002-06:002011-08-25T19:47:37.251-06:00

The header works...yippee! Now to fill in all the blank pages. Tomorrow...

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-70380048140753606132011-08-24T20:51:00.001-06:002011-08-24T20:52:12.696-06:00

It'll only tick you off. I haven't mapped the image yet, so the links don't work...yet. My project for tomorrow.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-54831007169664509022011-08-24T12:51:00.002-06:002011-08-24T12:51:58.212-06:00

Ummmmmmmm...you may notice the blog looking a little funny for a few days. I'm trying to revamp the look and streamline it with the rest of my branding. Bear with me...the dust should settle soon.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-20480167052336886472011-08-24T09:47:00.001-06:002011-08-24T09:47:00.132-06:00

So, I admit it: I'm addicted to Angry Birds. Who isn't??????? Now I wish I were a dog -- at least just for a minute. How funny are those? These cute little costumes for your best friend Spot (or Rex, Rover, Rufus...) are from Sugar Land Etsy seller YoungUrbanPuppy. And the costumes even come with matching headbands. Too cute.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-45938098603934227072011-08-24T00:22:00.004-06:002011-08-24T00:31:03.963-06:00

Check out my debut on the local Houston news program NewsFix. I captured the pic old school...by hitting the pause/play combo until I got something that looked somewhat decent, hitting PrnScrn, and editing in Photoshop. Note that I said somewhat decent... I really should learn how to video capture.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-43055838735576286112011-08-24T00:19:00.001-06:002011-08-24T00:21:07.689-06:00

What started out as a "I'm almost finished..." has turned into a "I don't need sleep...not when there's so much that can be done while no one else is awake." I need a clone. I think I've said that before.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-77303525552724843802011-07-27T15:38:00.004-06:002011-07-27T15:45:05.025-06:00

That's okay, I'll just make a lamp. How cool is this?!?!? I want one.Available at Zipper8Lighting's Etsy Store for $195. My birthday's coming up in October...

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-71299955202578058632011-07-26T16:00:00.003-06:002011-07-26T16:08:40.006-06:00

Beaten. Dirty. Grungy.No, not me...my newest jewelry. I hammered my metal on every bumpy surface I could find -- concrete, rocks, chicken wire, chain, cable -- before I folded it and cut it. I'm loving the new texture. Items are all available in the shop.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-14613773903496337342011-07-21T16:12:00.004-06:002011-07-21T16:15:10.467-06:00

I just signed up for a class @ Papershell myself. this looks like so much fun...my kiddo and I are going to make a piece of art together. Yea!Easy Mosaic Suncatchers with Susie Curry No grouting! This easy mosaic suncatcher project is suitable for adults and kids ages 6 and up! Apply rounded cathedral glass using a special adhesive sheet to acrylic forms -- you'll take your work home the very

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-52228431066386901742011-07-20T18:33:00.002-06:002011-07-20T18:36:17.635-06:00

What? Another coupon??Yep.Print out this coupon and come take my class at Papershell on Saturday. Because I said so, that's why.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-76350915557879808272011-07-15T18:56:00.004-06:002011-07-15T19:01:45.880-06:00

New stuff up in the shop, with some to follow next week after ReMarket.And here's your prize for stopping by this evening: Enter code HTOWN15 to receive 15% off your order at my Etsy shop. Code will be good until July 31.Now go nuts.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-86576469771265725602011-07-11T13:39:00.004-06:002011-07-11T13:51:25.782-06:00

Yep, it can. And here it is:Join myself and other fellow "green" artists and crafters at the Houston ReMarket this Saturday from 9am - 1pm in the Old MHMRA Parking Lot (2850 Fannin). There will be a food truck and music from local Houston artists as well. Don't know about the ReMarket? Here's what the creators have to say:Houston Re-Market is put together by a group of people who really enjoy

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-63014444394081596722011-07-11T13:17:00.012-06:002011-07-11T13:35:15.199-06:00

I will be teaching a class at on July 23 at Papershell in Richmond about how to make fabric flowers. If you're not interested in that, then check out some other art classes coming up this month at Papershell. Get off the couch and learn something new, okay?Art Classes for Adults and ChildrenIt’s hot outside...come into the Gallery and take an art class in the AC! Class fees include all

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-2875850572316291352011-04-07T15:04:00.004-06:002011-04-07T15:09:59.714-06:00

A bit gritty, a bit grungy, a bit dirty. And, of course, a bit sparkly. Take a peak:

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-11206383273984746412011-04-02T20:40:00.003-06:002011-04-02T20:44:37.331-06:00

Yes, it has been a while. No, I don't have time to do more than post this graphic.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-27223117529935561592008-11-24T22:24:00.004-06:002008-11-24T22:32:38.812-06:00

Two posts in one day. Are we shocked and amazed?? Don't get used to it...I just foundt his random thing and had to post it.I love Etsy. I mean, really love it. I'm trying to find handmade presents for all my friends this year, and I ran across this book, Baby's first physics book - Pat Schrodinger's Kitty, in Electric Boogaloo's Shop.For those of you with kids out there, I'm sure you own,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-13344028649699956312008-11-24T13:46:00.003-06:002008-11-24T14:03:22.781-06:00

Yeah, I know that the cold weather only last for about a week here in H-town, but these lovely scarves by Houston designer Olga Tarasova make me want to bundle up!Olga's scarves are hand-felted and dyed, which make them not only warm and cozy, but awesome to look at as well. The texture of felted scarves is such that they tend to be more sculptural and rigid that your standard neck wrap...which

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-67969316226212620962008-11-21T09:07:00.003-06:002008-11-21T09:15:03.919-06:00

Do you know a cook, or a lady who likes to at least pretend to cook (like me)? Maybe a spiffy new apron is in order. Check out these handmade darlings from Houston-based Amaria Studio:Cute, cute, cute! You can purchase the aprons from Amaria Studio on Etsy or in person at the Fa-La-La Holiday Market at La Centerra in Cinco Ranch on December 6.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-36540962149995834962008-11-20T13:49:00.003-06:002008-11-20T14:01:52.696-06:00

So you're looking for handmade things to give to your peeps for the holidays...well, I've found some cool ones, and I hope to post a new one every day. That's saying a lot for a blogger who's last post was two friggin months ago, but I gotta start somewhere, eh?? Here's today's idea:Get your holiday card on! Since it takes FOREVER to write all those cards, better get started early. Here are a

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-73378998457813122642008-09-18T14:34:00.002-06:002008-09-18T14:43:42.435-06:00

Hurricane Ike has been all over the news, so I’m sure that you’ve all seen and heard at least a little bit about the damage caused to Galveston and surrounding areas.Our home in Sugar Land suffered almost no damage. We lost a small part of our fence and one shingle from our roof. It could have been so much worse, and I think God that He watched over our family during the storm.I am sad to say

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-22844019154344678802008-09-15T14:34:00.000-06:002008-09-18T14:50:38.240-06:00

Just when you think your world is just fine the way it is, you have to go and shake things up a bit. That’s the way the world works, right? My husband and I recently decided to shake up our lives quite a bit…on July 26, we had our first baby, a little girl named Kaylie Elaine. And they’re right (whoever “they” really are…): having a baby really does change your life.Between the

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-34749296295883636172008-04-02T05:33:00.002-06:002008-12-09T12:48:41.292-06:00

As a soon to be mom, I have thought at least a few times how having a baby will affect my choice of jewelry. I know that may sound silly, but I'm a jewelry designer...I think of these things! Well, good for me that someone else was thinking too.The Friendswood, TX jewelry artist behind Sparkly Strandz came up with this neat necklace: the Nursing Necklace. Designed for mothers who are nursing,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-22704009041828910662008-03-27T05:49:00.006-06:002008-12-09T12:48:41.952-06:00

And here's Part 2 of the Houston artist write-up. There will also be other artists from around the Houston Metro, so don't miss them either. The complete list of artists is here.The canvas works of Ray Phillips tell tales of both struggle and redemption. Layering many images together, the contemporary artist creates finished pieces with a gritty, urban feel. Trained at the Glassell School,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-1812806428931640692008-03-26T05:12:00.007-06:002008-12-09T12:48:42.264-06:00

Since the Festival is this weekend, I thought I'd share a bit about the other Houston artists that will be represented. Three of the artists, Chuck Brush (metal), Mark Cole (pastels), and Yu Cha Pak (watercolor), didn't have websites, so you'll have to research them on your own. As for the rest...Coco Easterwood paints what's in her head...shadowy-eyed girls to abstracts to bicycles. She has

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-2574629414979410782008-03-24T10:01:00.008-06:002008-12-09T12:48:42.594-06:00

I know it's a little bit short notice, but I just found out myself on Friday that I'll be demonstrating how to make jewelry at the Bayou City Arts Festival this weekend, March 28 - 30.I will be set up near the Food Court (site map) on Friday - Sunday from 10am - 5:45pm. I'll be making jewelry for the new EUTECTIC Spring/Summer 2008 collection and demonstrating techniques while making small charm

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-79833948862659262522008-03-24T09:43:00.007-06:002008-12-09T12:48:43.433-06:00

As I said in the last post, I've been working on some new EUTECTIC jewelry for the Spring/Summer 2008. I made these postcards to hand out and thought I'd share...The Spring/Summer 2008 collection is all about color. Check out the Pantone Fashion Color Report for Spring 2007 and you'll see lots of orange, green, and pink was predicted for this season (based on various designer runway collections

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-91355521297714510252008-03-24T09:33:00.003-06:002008-03-24T09:42:41.307-06:00

No update since December, hmph. Seems like I'm an expert at crawling under rocks...if anyone needs lessons, I'm willing to teach. :) Actually, there are a few good reasons why I've been absent:The Christmas season was a killer! I had planned to take the entire month of January off after all the shows and events of the last few months.I found out in January that I was pregnant (due August 1st).

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-63414318060572000352007-12-10T09:46:00.000-06:002007-12-10T09:47:58.805-06:00

I've been a busy bee...check out the new items listed in the Shop:new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5011279, 'shop','thumbnail',5,5).renderIframe();

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-83953428537518227822007-11-17T10:42:00.000-06:002007-12-10T09:13:56.632-06:00

I'm not on vacation...I'm just a bit overwhelmed. I've been doing shows and such to promote my jewelry line, and I pretty much have time for nothing else right now (you should see my studio...yuck!). I hope to be back posting in January.I hope that everyone has a great Holiday Season!

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-81425182668603791002007-08-22T08:10:00.000-06:002007-08-21T08:25:45.716-06:00

"I've got to get back to 1985!"Yep, that's right...the DeLorean is back, and Houston engineer Stephen Wynne is making it happen. And in the spirit of DIY, he's building the new cars from scratch. The "new" DeLoreans will feature approximately 80% newly fabricated parts made in Wynne's shop in Humble. The rest of the parts will be prefab or from original DeLoreans.If you want to read a bit more,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-9427213833149563032007-08-21T06:27:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:43.958-06:00

...and didn't post. So here's a double whammy for you (to make up for my slacking).San Marcos designer Kaite Wallace likes all things pink and imperfect. She takes vintage fabrics, beads, bags, and more and remakes them into pretty little things to wear and carry. I discovered her at a show here in Houston, and even though she's not from here, I thought I'd post her anyway. San Marcos isn't

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-66120726565145304622007-08-14T12:01:00.001-06:002008-12-09T12:48:44.313-06:00

If you don’t already have plans for this Saturday (and even if you do!), come out to the Midtown Farmers Market for the “2nd Saturday Shopping Spree” event.Houston Craft Mafia members Feto Soap and Rara Avis (that’s me!) will be there with tables full of handmade goodness. I’ve got new notebooks from the Inked and The White Tree stationery lines, new Signature notecards, and fun summer jewelry

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-2867865703283043772007-08-14T11:00:00.001-06:002011-07-11T13:10:53.001-06:00

Seriously...don't laugh! Now I'm too busy with other stuff (though I still can spend the entire weekend parked in front of my PS2), but I still like to remember the good old days. Like when I used to read a lot of comic books...I ran across Houston artist Mark Lyons's profile on TalentDatabase.com the other day and thought I'd share. Besides creating some awesome surreal artwork, his pen and

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-55186205750968634812007-08-13T06:14:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:44.622-06:00

From the Women's Home of Houston Website:Be Creative & Benefit The HomeDo you enjoy creating beautiful and imaginative gifts? Are you “the crafty one?” If so, HomeWorks is for you.HomeWorks gives volunteers and friends the opportunity to create custom gift baskets, boutique items and specialty foods. These exceptional gifts are sold at corporate and church fairs and auxiliary events. All

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-60470855631692890392007-08-13T05:54:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:44.839-06:00

Okay, so if you don't know what "The Sampler" is, then here's the quick rundown. You make stuff, you send stuff to The Sampler, the Sampler sends you a great little package of handmade goodies and information. Even if you don't make stuff, you can still subscribe for a small fee. Then you just get to sit on your couch and wait for your package of goodies. How cool is that??I decided to

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-64555852970266574462007-08-08T08:08:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:45.312-06:00

Thought I'd brag a bit on who else...me! Here's my first order packed up and ready to go out to Hella Good. If you haven't been by their shop, take a peek. They have some REALLY cute indie stuff.Or you could wait until the end of next week to visit (b.c my stuff will be there ready for you to buy!). Cheers.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-38129872056653689812007-08-07T08:47:00.002-06:002008-12-09T12:48:46.038-06:00

Love him or hate him, Kinky Friedman is Texan to the core. And now he's got another product for his fans to scramble for: cigars. I couldn't find a logo graphic worth a darn, so you'll have to put up with this one...Kinky was at the Sugar Land Town Square last night promoting his new line, but alas, I was out playing soccer and had to miss it. Too bad. The line will soon be available online at

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-23766123705961161742007-08-06T06:35:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:46.242-06:00

"...these are a few of my favorite things." And here are some Beadiful Things for you:Houston artists and mommy-prenuer Ann Westby has been handcrafting jewelry since 2001. Born and raised in the Netherlands (which no doubt influences her simple, pretty style), she studied journalism in Boston and then finally landed here in H-town.Ann markets her handmade jewelry on her Etsy shop, Beadiful

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-10411165308190411122007-08-02T09:21:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:46.544-06:00

I've recently joined two online community sites that have helped me find new Houston artists and crafters to post about. Here's the info:Spacetaker.orgThis online community for Houston artists lets you build a free profile and link back to your website. Free is good, linking is good...this site is just plain good!! I've found so many cool people from this site, I can't wait to post about them!

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-87561394552368241342007-08-01T13:36:00.001-06:002007-08-01T13:38:31.007-06:00

This is a neat article I found on digg. It has a lot of info that I already knew, but some that I didn't. Good reference material.read more | digg story

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-54977862347655204232007-08-01T10:46:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:46.759-06:00

You rock...you are a rock. Or at least you could be...Houston artist Bonnie Blue knows that women rock. She can pick up a smooth stone and give it a face...literally! In addition to "paper weight" type rocks, Bonnie uses smaller stones to create jewelry. She also creates custom items for the home and other wardrobe accessories.Her cute characters and wacky women are the perfect gift for

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-8290108199156422762007-07-31T11:27:00.000-06:002007-07-31T11:34:07.379-06:00

It's always nice to know that people notice you. :)Paper Shop ink. and More! blog - The White Tree stationery (scroll down about 2/3 of the way)27Things blog - She blogged that I blogged. and now I'm blogging that she blogged that...

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-48206094736051227582007-07-31T10:57:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:47.242-06:00

Really lucky! With over $500 worth of stuff in July's Modish monthly giveaway, that's the only way you could win (because there were over 700 entries). July's giveaway featured an item from yours truly, a set of EUTECTIC "Hoop + Charm" earrings. Like em? Then buy them from my Smashing Darling store. Or just wait until my website goes live or visit me in a few weeks at the Midtown Farmer's

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-20083611155270343092007-07-31T10:20:00.001-06:002008-12-09T12:48:47.382-06:00

Rhett may have said it first, but just about anyone who plays by their own set of rules can say it now -- especially people who play by their own fashion rules. And baby, that makes you one Sophisticated Bitch.The clothes made by designer Jeff Taplin of Sophisticated Bitch and King Dick are not for the timid...or the modest. They are for men and women who wear what the want and know they look

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-27020868975034170362007-07-26T19:54:00.000-06:002007-07-26T19:55:30.889-06:00

And I'm away from mine, unfortunately. I had to leave unexpectedly to help a friend move into her apartment, so I won't be posting until Monday. :( Maybe by then I'll have found some cool new things to post about.Cheers.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-2111818594945907402007-07-23T10:07:00.001-06:002008-03-27T05:47:52.908-06:00

Browsing around the www, I came across a community/shopping site called Mintd. It's a place that designers and crafters can put up a profile and sell their stuff. It's more specialized than Etsy, and you actually have to pay for more than 3 images (I'm cheap...I only have 3), but it's a place to go to get the word out. Signing up is free, and the commission they charge won't put you out

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-4734323916077460812007-07-19T09:32:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:47.598-06:00

Houston author Mugoux (said like moo-goo for your non-Frenchies) just published her first book Travels with William, which promises to be a great summer read. And just to tease, here's part of the excerpt from Chapter 2 found on her website:A parade of glass cases stuffed with geometric pastry poufs saturated in honey and cream crawled along dingy, Pepto-Bismol pink walls.“Let’s go in.”“I don’t

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-68195046805769966552007-07-18T08:42:00.001-06:002008-12-09T12:48:48.049-06:00

And here is yet another fabulous example that art is alive here in Houston, this time by artist Marilyn Cassidy.Whether she actually meant to capture Houston in her art, I can see the waves of heat rising up from the concrete in "Burn Red" (left) and the blurred motion that is the Houston nightlife in "BluePhire" (right). Using oil and canvas, the images and color combinations that Cassidy

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-28072375723453513252007-07-18T07:44:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:48.526-06:00

I just got finished with my first market event. Yea! Rara Avis was a craft vendor at last Saturday at the Midtown Farmer's Market (at Monica Pope's t'afia restaurant on W. Alabama and Travis). The Midtown Farmer's Market runs every Saturday from 8am - 12pm, rain or shine, and has on of the best selections of locally grown and organic produce and prepared foods around...including items prepared

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-22075136985789623512007-07-12T07:53:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:49.139-06:00

...I just want to ride my motor-sickle." Motorcycle, that is, for those of you haven't heard that song. I don't own a motorcycle (though I really Really REALLY want one), but I may soon. I won't be able to ride it, but that's okay.Barefoot Drums of Houston creates super cool motorcycles, jeeps, tanks, and helicopters from scrap metal and leather (yes, real leather for the seats). These items

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-6231458030005816422007-07-11T10:07:00.001-06:002007-07-11T10:07:06.199-06:00

Here's a great little video about Houston that I found on the Houstonist blog. Here's this info from their site:Organic short documentary showing the cool, hidden life of Houston, America's 4th Largest city. Features interviews with George Foreman, Chloe Dao, Lauren Anderson and others. Musical performances by Beetle and Michael Ward. Great cinematography and editorial. Produced by Merideth

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-38107832939479565992007-07-06T09:17:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:49.386-06:00

Or so they say... I think pictures are worth more than that -- they are a look into someone else's head, they form a connection between people. And if you're lucky, sometimes you find just the right one.Houston fine-art photographer Marilyn Davenport has been bringing us beautiful pictures since 1970's. She has worked with film, digital, and black & white mediums on subjects ranging from

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-35980537151092937082007-07-05T08:19:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:49.602-06:00

That's probably my favorite Led Zepplin song, maybe because orange is one of my favorite colors.What better way to liven up a loveley white summer dress than with a lovely orange and more orange necklace? Dusty, a Houston-based graphic designer and artist retails her lively and colorful jewelry under the name 27 Things at on Etsy.com. Besides having a keen sense of color and texture, she's also

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-87400651428611442622007-07-04T07:39:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:49.788-06:00

If you were an artist and somone came and took away all your pencils and paintbrushes, how would you keep creating? How about quilting?Houston artist Kay Cox did just that. Practiced in several different art mediums (pottery, watercolor, charcoal, sketching), Cox is now bringing her sketches to fabric. "I am really having fun enlarging these drawings [sketches] and putting them to fabric. Must

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-61955248904955017712007-07-03T17:15:00.000-06:002007-07-03T17:20:13.669-06:00

I've added a couple of new things to the sites...just thought I'd let everyone know:Stumble It! - If you like a post or an artist that you see, "Stumble It!" Let's get this PR monster going!RSS Feed - You can now subscribe to my RSS feed by clicking the button on the top left corner of the blog. Now you can have your news delivered. I use Bloglines to read my Feeds.More to come, I'm sure, but

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-69847160503809882802007-07-02T11:04:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:49.939-06:00

EUTECTIC handcrafted jewelry is now available at Smashing Darling, a marketplace for clothing, accessories, vintage wares, and jewelry made by up and coming indie designers. Yea, me!Now go shopping! :)

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-86774581581849066932007-06-28T07:40:00.001-06:002008-12-09T12:48:50.290-06:00

No, that's not a bad thing...and neither is this:Based in Montrose, Cubist Literature creates one-of-a-kind garments from vintage and recycled clothing by sewing on cute little (sometimes big) appliques. Bunnies, owls, hearts, and other strange creatures adorn t-shirts, sweaters, pants, jackets, and other items. Cubist Literature also offers hand-spun yarns, buttons, art, and even music in his

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-76111733797736165282007-06-27T08:06:00.000-06:002007-06-27T08:15:07.240-06:00

You gotta watch this film. It's 71 minutes long, so pause it and let it load a bit before you view. Go surf their website for a while and then pop some popcorn, prop up your feet, and enjoy.Join Spout | Buy DVD | Watch Video Podcast | Get CodeThese guys aren't from Houston, but I posted anyway because I think this film is important. It will speak different messages to everyone who watches. I

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-57336896019316950932007-06-26T10:39:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:50.430-06:00

There's just something beautiful and soothing about circles and rings. They symbolize life, love, journeys, ripples, movement...what other shape is so amazing? Houston artist Orna Feinstien shows us rings at their most magnificent.The images above are from her "Branched and Rooted" series of monoprints (what's a monoprint?). Specializing in monoprints and other mixed media, Feinstein is inspired

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-16943714245051892272007-06-25T10:08:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:51.224-06:00

Legos, army men, rubber duckies, plastic dinosaurs...toys that made you use your imagination, toys you could get in a giant bucket for $5. What ever happened to those toys? They got made into soap.Local Houston resident Lisa Chouinard started making small batches of handmade soap in 2003. After gaining a large internet following as well as nods from national magazines FHM and Penthouse for her

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-16515675770365415632007-06-22T14:44:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:51.563-06:00

Tie me up and call me Bettie...Page, that is! For those of you who collect jointed dolls, prepare to be punkd. Forget the pinky fru-fru stuff...these custom order outfits by Houston designer MIO are just plain H-O-T.Along with corsets and swimsuits for jointed dolls, MIO also sells handbags, pillows, magnets, and more from her website.MIO is a member of the Houston Craft Mafia, a local

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-85613861616335304172007-06-19T14:10:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:52.446-06:00

It's alive, it's ALIVE...well, almost. I hope to soon have up the website dedicated to my jewelry line, EUTECTIC. I'm working with a company called i4vision to produce my website and shopping cart, and we're hoping that the site will be done by mid-July. Here are a few screen shots from the proposed design that I created:If you'd like a sneak peak at some of the designs in the Signature line,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-22364444454011613192007-06-01T09:53:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:52.634-06:00

I like sandwiches...PB&J, turkey on rye, roast beef and swiss. But I especially like glass sandwiches. Yep, that's right, glass sandwiches. At least the kind like Houston artist Jeanne Haner makes.Jeanne handcrafts jewelry by combining a layer of dichroic glass with another compatible glass and then firing it at varying temperatures and times to get the desired effect. She effectively creates a

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-17458343856945591892007-05-31T06:20:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:53.053-06:00

Didn't we all wish we were Barbie at least once in our childhoods? The cute boyfriend, the nice house, the great hair, the horses, the cars, and ALL THOSE SHOES! Not local Houston photographer Debra Rueb...she wanted to be Tammy, a Barbie alternative that we can now all identify with thanks to Debra's cheeky and fun photography. Taking widely used cliches, puns, and metaphors, Debra uses Tammy

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-85431267550843164492007-05-04T14:41:00.001-06:002011-08-25T19:46:56.522-06:00

I am a bad dog...three days with no posting. No treat for me. :( But while we're on the subject of dogs, check out the stuff at FuFuFashions.Now, I don't have a dog -- I'm a cat person. But if I did, I can't say that I wouldn't be tempted to dress it up in cute clothes...I do love fashion after all. But trying to decide between polka dots and shiny green foil might prove very

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-78113866283619052472007-04-30T11:10:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:53.766-06:00

I like to shop, mostly because it gives me the opportunity to find new designers and boutiques. While doing my daily hunt for cool stores in Houston, I came across greener grass design and gift, a web-based Houston boutique that has both a clean, crisp look and a great stock of unique and nifty items (both big +'s in this surfer's notebook)."Rather than support the further standardization of

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-47152408176602820032007-04-27T07:54:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:53.915-06:00

Not all Texans are cowboys. But if you are, of if you just want to pretend to be, these belt buckles by Houston artist Max Lang will let you do it in style.Max Lang Belts and Buckles has been around for quite a while...since the 1970's. Self-taught silversmith Max Lang began by creating silver bridle and saddle components for show-horse owners. Thank goodness horses weren't his only customers;

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-6816849753230341482007-04-26T18:56:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:54.085-06:00

Teapot + spoons = wind chime! These are pretty darn cute, and dare I say it..."whimsical" (I really hate that word, but it applies here). Created by the folks at Whistle & Wine in the Heights area, these chimes are made from recycled teapots and silverware. At a reasonable $25 for a teapot chime with a plant, these might just be the perfect gift for say, Mother's Day? And if teapots aren't

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-37267352408827752652007-04-25T07:35:00.001-06:002008-12-09T12:48:54.293-06:00

Coming in March 2008, this documentary features over 50 different crafters and DIY artists from around the nation. Some of them are members of the Craft Mafia, an organization dedicated to networking and promoting indie artists and entrepreneurs all over the USA. I'm a member of the Houston Craft Mafia myself. Check out a sneak preview from YouTube:I'm putting this one on my "go see" list.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-11297111703443430952007-04-25T05:31:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:54.429-06:00

I'm not a baby, but if I were, I would wear these. Perfect for any cowboy just getting her spurs, these onesies are for sale by Etsy member "Lone Starlet," The sweet little red number boasts a yodeling cowboy, and the green one, a Texas State Map (complete with H-town, of course).Fashionable enough for ya, partner? Cheers.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-56839263120737694152007-03-22T20:51:00.000-06:002007-12-10T09:15:44.725-06:00

It's hard to do sometimes, but I did. Check out this article about my customizable journals.Cheers

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-42702525063805956962007-03-15T17:45:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:55.697-06:00

It's alive...it's alive!! I've finally launched my jewelry line, Eutectic. Trying to be both webmeister and artist and designer is tough, so it's still in the beginning stages. I hope to have everything up by the end of the month in time for my "coming out" party (basically me and my husband watching TV...just a normal day).I will also have the Etsy store updated fairly soon...that way you can

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-24431537083912973662007-03-06T18:12:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:55.855-06:00

I'm fairly uncoordinated and the only living being I can sneak up on is my lazy, 15lb cat Loki. Needless to say, I'll probably never be a ninja. But I can pretend.Express your inner ninja with this cool necklace by Hapa. She hand folds little sheets of fine silver to make each of the origami pendants. How neat is that?? I learned to fold origami as a kid, and I actually have a bowl full "

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-79318974346937082822007-03-05T18:06:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:56.028-06:00

I admit it, I read other peoples' blogs. I can't come up with all this stuff by myself. Moving on...Perusing indieshopping.com, I find this little lovely top. People, this one gets an **oh, holy crap** from me. Please note this is not a bad thing. A rating of OHC means: "this _______ is so stinkin' cool, I now strike my palm against my forehead in disgust because I didn't think of it first."

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-23159920808994152942007-03-02T14:13:00.000-06:002007-03-02T14:35:06.552-06:00

I missed my chance to be in it for the Spring, but here's the press release for the "Gifts Galore in Greatwood" art & gift bazzar that will be held right here in Sugar Land at the end of the month. If you're looking for a Mother's Day gift, go check it out.HOP, HOP, HOP on over to the 6th annual Gifts Galore at Greatwood Spring Craft Show! The event will be held on March 31st from 9:00 a.m. to

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-11730513250448891112007-02-27T17:14:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:56.631-06:00

I love my city. I don't love the weather and the traffic, but that's another post. Anyway...I love the buildings, I love the noise, I love the diversity of its people. In 2005, my husband and I took our cameras Downtown and walked around the Theater District taking pictures. The result of our lovely afternoon is a collection of six images that made it onto my very first set of stationery:

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-41892651830357633312007-02-27T11:01:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:56.859-06:00

This morning I completed the first two designs of my "idea" session yesterday. But now I don't know what to label this line. All of my stationery has it's own label, but not my jewelry. I could marked it under my Signature label, like the cards...both the stationery and the jewelry have a similar feel: minimal & graphic, but still pretty. I think that's what I'll go with until I think of

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-33460200905084699262007-02-26T19:13:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:57.047-06:00

"Romeo and Juliet," "West Side Story," "Smallville"...okay, so maybe "Smallville" is a stretch, but the idea is there: boy meets girl, boy likes girl, boy is not fated to have girl. Suffice to say that in the movie biz, there's nothing new under the sun. In fact, one can say that about most industries. Jewelry design is no exception.It's tough to be a jewelry designer and create something

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-22453367127373290952007-02-12T21:37:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:57.163-06:00

There's something so cool about mixing gold and silver. You can't look pretentious with only a smattering of gold, but the combination looks so rich, you'd swear it was "designer." And by combining the two, you get jewelry that you really can wear with everything.I created these earrings for a friend's birthday. She's got great style, and I wanted to give her something that looked very chic

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-58578835640985866122007-02-12T19:13:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:57.298-06:00

Much like the Sampler, the Happily Handmade Giveaway is a great way to discover new designers and to get some pretty nifty stuff. But it's one step better...it's free! Each quarter, 50 + 1 grand prize winners are chosen from a random drawing of entries to receive a basket of all sorts of handmade goodies.Their site has links to all past and present contributors, so go check them out and enter

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-2104455657231523642007-02-11T14:35:00.000-06:002007-02-12T21:36:28.703-06:00

Here are my top favorite sites right now (today, at this instant...they may change later):Blogs:Oh Joy! - a blog about a girl named Joy and what she finds interesting and prettyWhipUp.net - a blog about handcrafted stuff from all overDesign Sponge - a blog all about design...store fronts, magazines, fashion, art, etc.Cupcake Bake Shop - recipes, photos, and everything cupcake. Diet..what diet?

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-86067706829741832202007-02-11T12:53:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:57.569-06:00

It's good to be from the south. It's especially good to be from south Louisiana. Technically, I'm not from south LA, but my momma and my husband are, so that's good enough for me. Besides the beautiful swamps and vibrant culture, there is the food and (of course) the Mardi Gras. And yes, it is "the" Mardi Gras, because in South LA, that holiday is an actual living, breathing being.Well, I

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-49101560503025818382007-02-11T09:41:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:57.908-06:00

The word "signature" conjures up different images for different people. It could be a stamp of approval, something you're know for, or a binding agreement. In my case, is a line of stationery that bears my personal touch...my artistic and creative signature.Each Signature cards begins with white 98lb felt-finish cardstock. I then choose different combinations of handmade artisan papers, wire,

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-65338494443848030002007-02-09T17:41:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:58.076-06:00

FINALLY! I've actually gotten a chance to post. Whew! This is the first of quite a few for today, so here goes.The White Tree is a line of stationery that I produce. With all the talk about global warming and dwindling resources, I thought I'd do my part to help make art out of trash. Well, not trash exactly...magazines.A small aside here: I LOVE magazines. I read a lot, but I like to flip

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-48742153765146384802006-11-30T17:53:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:58.293-06:00

And so began "a rare thing," the jewelry brand produced by Rara Avis. Actually, my Mom gave me the bug (thanks!) and I ran with it. Soon I will have a full-scale PDF catalog with my current pieces, but if you'd like to see a few pictures of some of my other stuff, go to my website and click on "Projects --> Personal. " If the pictures aren't up yet, then give me a while...I'm a one woman team.

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-34864725048949912022006-11-30T11:58:00.000-06:002007-02-27T07:05:18.801-06:00

I'm new to the blog scene, so hopefully, this won't hurt too much...This blog was created as a place to show off my ideas and wares and to connect my friends & clients to things that I found fresh & interesting. I have a special spot in my heart for all goods handmade (please please please don't ask me about Wally-World...you'll get an earful), and I believe that we should support our local

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-72466316101958984182006-11-01T19:36:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:58.475-06:00

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-499104752001451692006-11-01T16:46:00.006-06:002011-07-11T13:11:22.271-06:00

This site serves as the portal to the Rara Avis universe as well as our blog dedicated to promoting and supporting Houston based artists and artisans. Click on the links on the left under "About Rara Avis" to learn about the company and our graphic design services. To shop our products, visit the sites listed on the right under "Shop Rara Avis." Read through the posts below for daily spotlights

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-65996121033907291172006-11-01T16:24:00.000-06:002008-12-09T12:48:58.653-06:00

"Well, technically I'm an engineer, AND I'm from Alabama." That answer usually produces two very different responses: a belly laugh or a stunned silence. I guess it's not what you expect to hear coming from a girl with a mohawk and closet full of 4" high stilettos.Art and design must be in my blood. I've never taken an art class, but I've been playing with layouts since I was a kid; I can

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7143404803932548453.post-12648254852081532562006-11-01T13:09:00.006-06:002011-08-25T13:57:19.721-06:00

October 2008: Featured in HOUSTON MagazineMay 2008: Spotted on FashionIndie.comMay 2008: Spotted on IguanaFashions.comNovember 2007: Article in Fort Bend and Katy Lifestyles and Homes MagazinesAugust 2007: Press Release for EUTECTIC being accepted to Hi Art Gallery in San Marcos, TXAugust 2007: Spotted on La Mode D'Indie BlogAugust 2007: Spotted on Envision BlogJuly 2007: Spotted on

"a rare thing"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00332080493827007076noreply@blogger.com0