{Kivett Studio}

Cats!

2009-05-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

I just finished another custom order for my friend Dian. I've totally lost track of how many doll forms that I've made just for her since we first met through the local bead society several years ago....but if I had to guess, I would say that Dian has probably collected enough of them from me to fill a five gallon bucket with nothing but dolls. This time she needed two purple cats, with no tails, that can stand upright all on their own. I can't wait to see how she's planning to bead them! In the meantime, stop by her blog, say hi, and see what she's working on next.

I had so much fun making these little sweet hearts that I couldn't just stop at those two... I've made two more in cream and have a few more that need to be stuffed. I've listed the extras for sale on my website. Just click the image to pop over there.

Dry Erase Message Board

2009-05-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE this idea that I found on the Design Sponge Blog! The original project uses and old window, which I didn't have, so I improvised and created my message board from a picture frame that I had stored in the garage. I wrapped the backing board with some of my favorite fabric and added a small (ATC sized) collage of one of my grandmothers childhood photos. All of which was just taped into place so I can change fabrics once I grow tired of this. Viola! A personalized message board for my studio!

And the first thing on my list, finish my new Sun Salutation Goddess! She's done....You can see her here....

www.KivettStudio.Etsy.com

Wild Mushrooms

2009-05-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

There are wild mushrooms popping up in my studio!

Batik Tree Spirits

2009-05-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

As warm weather takes over, I find myself less and less motivated to stay indoors and sew. I would much rather be outside...doing something, anything! Hmmm maybe I should set my sewing machine up on the back deck. I wonder if the neighbors would think I'm some kind of weirdo?

Even though the weather has been gorgeous, I still managed to stitch up a couple of new Tree Spirits in a brown/purple/pink batik fabric I had stashed away. I love the color combination! The pink adds an unexpected pop.

One of my finished Tree Spirits

has just been listed in my

Etsy shop!

Kivett Studio on Facebook

2009-04-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

As if I had nothing better to do....

Kivett Studio is now on Facebook!

Click the image to join me ;-)

Collage Machine

2009-04-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

Can't help myself....i still love playing with the Collage Machine ! Actually, I'm avoiding the reorganization of my studio. I hate to admit it but I have developed strange attachments to oddball junk that should be donated, recycled or just plain trashed. Can't figure out how to just let go of things that I might need someday.

Custom work and spring cleaning time

2009-03-26T18:19:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't been updating my blog much these days. I've gotten side tracked with custom orders and spring cleaning. It's unbelievable how much clutter I've managed to accumulate over the winter! I'm making it top priority over the next two weeks to get my studio (and the rest of the house) sparkling clean.

Hibernation

2009-03-06T13:53:00.000-08:00

I'm slowly coming out of hibernation, now that the weather is warming and Spring is just around the corner. Today I'm working on a few new doll forms...and maybe next week I'll get started on some new plush monsters! You'll find these bunny forms for sale on my website.

Modish Giveaway - Day Two!

2008-12-11T11:13:00.000-08:00

Heads up! It's day two of the Modish Giveaway. Go check it out...you just might win all these handmade goodies ;-)

Above photo shows the prize package for giveaway #2, and was provided courtesy of Modish.

Modish Giveaway - Day One!

2008-12-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

December 10-12, Modish will be giving away three HUGE prize packages. The first giveaway was announced today and will include a Kivett Studio Christmas Tree Monster. To enter, all you need to do is visit the Modish Blog, read through the entry details and choose to participate by scavenger method or broadcast method, and then leave a comment on Modish.

Giveaway #1 is worth $726! You'll have until Tuesday, Dec 16th at 11:59pm (PST) to enter. Good Luck!

Above photo shows the prize package for giveaway #1, and was provided courtesy of Modish.

Sugar Skull Plush for Big Brothers / Big Sisters

2008-11-21T08:14:00.000-08:00

The proceeds from the sale of this Sugar Skull plush will be donated to Big Brothers and Big Sisters via the Plushteam's Plushraiser!

This particular Sugar Skull monster was recently on display at Drawn West Gallery for the 2008 Dia de los Muertos Exhibit. Created in bright cheery colors, this plush calavera is a celebration of "All Souls Day", also known as the Day of the Dead or Dia de los Muertos.

Shop the Plush Team on Etsy now!

Sugar skull plush created by Ronda Kivett.

www.Zzbeadz.Etsy.com

Faux Hot Chocolate

2008-11-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

Recently there was a huge buzz around the net about the 5 minute microwave cake. I got several emails from friends passing on the recipe. I thought theywould make wonderful party gifts for the holidays . We decided to give it a try, only to discover that the cake was a little dry, slightly rubbery and overall was really lacking in the "mmmmmm, yummy!" department.

So, last weekend I did a local craft fair and decided that I also wanted to sell some baked goods....let's face it, everyone has a weakness for baked goods around the holidays. The cake in a mug concept was a super cute idea but it needed to be modified so that the cake would actually taste good and still be easy to make. For this I started with heavy ceramic mugs. Most mugs are labeled on the bottom if they are microwave/ dishwasher/ oven safe. The mugs I used did not say they were oven safe. I was a little worried about them cracking in the heat of the oven so I filled a shallow baking pan with an inch of water. I filled 12 ounce mugs 2/3 full with cake batter and set them into the water filled baking pan. I'm not much of a baker so I stuck with a tried and true boxed cake mix but you certainly could substitute your own from scratch recipe. Baked them at the recommended temperature from the box (in this case 350 degrees) for approximately 35 minutes. Slide a knife or toothpick all the way to the bottom to test for doneness. I frosted the top to look like a mug of hot chocolate, with chocolate frosting and a few mini marshmallows on top.

They turned out wonderful! The cake was super moist, just the way I like it! While everyone stopped to adore them, I only sold a few cake mugs at the craft fair. But all was good because in the end I got to take some home for myself......those people at the craft fair that didn't buy one don't know what they were missing!

Holiday Forms

2008-11-06T07:17:00.000-08:00

Just in time for holiday beading! Premade Snowman forms are now ready for you to add your own unique twist. Dress them up as decorations or give them as gifts. Bird forms & star forms are also available and would make great stocking stuffers or holiday ornaments.

Happy Beading!

www.kivett-studio.com

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T17:35:00.000-07:00

Weekend in Phoenix

2008-10-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

I spent last weekend in Phoenix. A day at the HissyFits craft fair then we checked out Courtney's new apartment that she'll be moving into the first week of November. The craft fair was filled with all sorts of interesting items but all the girls were worried about was finding shade. Courtney curled up under the table to read a book and in no time drifted off to sleep, as if she were still an infant. I never will understand how small children can so easily fall asleep at anytime/anyplace. Here's my fully grown baby snoozing under the table, using her giant purse as a pillow. At one point her hand flopped out from under the table cloth....I can't even begin to imagine what craft fair shoppers may have been thinking!

Waverly, on the other hand, kept herself amused by taking pictures of me, taking pictures of her. I was amused by shoppers....people watching can be so much fun. Especially when they see a table full of my handmade monsters. One boy, must have been about 8 years old, stopped and touched nearly every single monster on my table as he described and commented on each one....then said that I must really be weird for making all those monsters!

Note to self: MUST stop at Krispy Kreme Donuts the next time we go down to Phoenix. I've missed Krispy Kreme, but they've finally reopened stores down around Phoenix...I am so there next time!

Caramel Apple Monster

2008-10-20T14:12:00.001-07:00

One of my FAVORITE Fall foods are caramel apples. I like them smothered in caramel then drenched in mounds of chocolate and sprinkled with even more chocolate then rolled in marshmallows. The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has candy coated apples big enough to feed the entire family....and they usally carry them all year round, but I only endulge in the Fall. I plan to run to the mall and buy one before then end of October. And if the kids are lucky I might even share a bite or two.

Nope, I never met a candied apple I didn't like and this one is no exception. This crazy Caramel Apple Monster was created for the Plush Team Halloween Treats & Fall Foods Challenge. Check out the Plush Team blog and vote for your favorite entry!

If you love caramel apples as much as I do then this one would love to go home with you.... He's waiting to be adopted from the Zzbeadz etsy shop.

Monster wristlet

2008-10-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

Now my little monsters come in purse form to carry all of life's little necessities!

I'm preparing for a craft fair at the end of this month...and possibly another next month. Hubby said my table layout looked great, except it needed a better variety of items, not just stuffed monsters....so the monster pouch was born....well sorta, it's not the first monster pouch I've made but it will be the first i'm going to offer for sale. All of my other attempts that came before this one are stuffed full of my own personal junk!

Red Hot Robot

2008-10-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

You can now find my Sugar Skull Plushies at Red Hot Robot in Phoenix for the Dia de los Plush show! They are also available for purchase from the Red Hot Robot website.

I'm toiling away on another batch of Sugar Skulls as we speak....They will be available at Drawn West in Prescott beginning October 24th for the SICYS - Dia de los Muertos Exhibit. The opening reception starts at 5:30pm. The exhibit will run until November 2nd.

Bright and cheery

2008-09-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

I've not yet gone into "Fall colors" mode. I'm just not done playing with bright cheery color....as you can see from the dolls I made this week. Although I did recently add some sepia tone bird forms to my shop, but I'm not ready to let go of summer!

Sugar Skull Plush

2008-09-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

I think I may have over-extended myself for the month of October. I've committed myself to three exhibits, a craft fair and still have to plan and execute Waverly's birthday party. I could really use two of me right now! Today, I'm making plush sugar skulls for a local Dia de los Muertos Exhibit. They match the sugar skull necklaces I made last year.....which I may also make more of those for the exhibit, if I have time.

New Forms

2008-09-17T12:24:00.001-07:00

I finally found a shopping cart that i like and am slowly filling it with new forms. As much as i love Etsy, I would rather sell directly from my own shopping cart through my website. It just makes my life easier.....plus this cart that I started using is way easier/faster when it comes to adding new items. I'll still update my etsy shops every so often but will most likely list the bulk of new doll forms on my website.

I'm tossing out the idea of doing a doll (maybe softie/plush) swap soon. I don't have all the particulars figured out yet but will work it out soon. If anyone is interested in joining me just shoot an email my way ;-)

Renegade Chicago - Sept 13 & 14

2008-09-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

The Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago starts tomorrow at noon. I wish I could be there! Even though I can't make the long trip, my monster plushies WILL be there. Visit to the Plush Team booth (#70) to see them.

Watson Lake

2008-09-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

Scott and I went hiking near Watson lake yesterday and came across a giant rattlesnake! I nearly had a heart attack! I never need to see another snake for as long as i live. The beast held us up for a good 10-15 minutes because we couldn't get around him on the trail. Well I couldn't get by, Scott wasn't afraid to walk by while the snake was pointed in the opposite direction, slooowwwwly slithering away, but stopping to glare at me and flick his tongue every few seconds. I on the other hand needed more than 6 feet between us to pass without having a panic attack. I had my camera but refused to try and take a picture of the snake. As if snapping a quick photo would anger it even more than our trespassing it its territory.... I'd rather take pictures of something a little more pleasant anyway....scenery! I love the reflection of the clouds in the water, and not a single snake to be seen.

Last Day to Vote

2008-09-08T07:46:00.000-07:00

It's the last day to vote in the Etsy Handmade Kids Sweepstakes! Show Hungry Bunny some love ;-)

I also finished and mailed all the plush goodness that will be appearing at Renegade in Chicago. Here's a little peek at just some of the plushies you'll be seeing in the Plush Team booth.

Quirks?

2008-09-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

Tagged by Machinarex
Here are the rules:

1. Link back to the person who tagged you
2. Mention the rules on your blog
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours
4. Tag 6 following bloggers by linking to them
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged bloggers blogs letting them know they've been tagged.

1. I absolutely cannot stand the sound of flies(or any kind of bug) buzzing around...it drives me crazy!

2. My family thinks I have some sort of cleaning OCD. Every so often I go on manic cleaning rampages and target specific items. The last two weeks my defined targets have been light fixtures, lamps, and the TV. All of which seem to be releasing a mysterious dusty scent when turned on that only I can smell.....despite that fact that they have been cleaned thoroughly every single day since i started smelling the dust potpourri.

3. I'm extremely forgetful and must leave little post it notes with messages to myself all over the house. I've not been using post it notes as much since I discovered that i can take notes with my cell phone and set my alarm to remind me of things i may have forgotten.

4. I can't seem to sit in one spot for too long, which may be why i don't watch a huge amount of TV. If i am sitting there i feel the need to be working on something at the same time...like handstitching or stuffing dolls.

5. I can't think of anything else at this moment. Maybe i'll come back to this later...but probably not because one of my other quirks is that i'm a procrastinator. If i can't get a task done quickly, at that precise moment that I want to get it done, then i'll drag it out for days/weeks/months!

6. See number 5. LOL!

I tag anyone that wants to play ;-)

Mini Monsters

2008-08-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Just a few more of the little monsters that are going to Renegade Chicago with the Plushteam.

There are also couple new kits in my Kivett Studio Etsy Shop . A green polka dot doll with 3 packets of beads and Pink Floral doll with 3 packets of beads. Bright fun and cheery colors...my favorite! My Renegade Chicago plushies will ship out this coming tuesday...after that I'm going to get started working on some new forms and kits to finally stock the shop...keep your eyes peeled.

Etsy "Handmade Kids" Sweepstakes

2008-08-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I've just discovered that I made it into the finals in the Etsy Handmade Kids Sweepstakes with my "Another Hungry Bunny" listing! Not only can the finalists win, but voters can win prizes too. For each vote you place, you'll be entered into a chance to win one of 14, $350 Etsy shopping sprees... voting ends Sept. 8th, so hurry over to Etsy and vote in each of the 7 categories today!

Hungry Bunny is listed in the Handmade Kids Toys category. You can vote for me by selecting his photo in that category! Spread the word.

Front page!

2008-08-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

Yay! I made it onto Etsy's front page! bottom row , smack in the middle... directly to my left, SamariaProject, also a fellow member of the Etsy Plush Steet Team.

Monsters in the studio

2008-08-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

Another hungry bunny

2008-08-15T22:12:00.000-07:00

Well Spring has come and gone and my house is still in serious need of a good cleaning! I keep finding monsters hiding in dark places.I found this one hiding behind the coffee maker, snacking on a pear.
Just another Hungry Bunny. She may look vicious but as long as she has some munchies nearby she's perfectly harmless and loves to cuddle. Up for adoption in my Etsy shop...

I've not been posting much these days...instead I'm hard at work sewing plushies to send to Renegade in Chicago! You'll find my plushies, along with many ohter team members, at the Plush Team booth. If you spot our mascot "PT Stitchy" banner, you'll know you're in the right place!

Yay - New packaging!

2008-07-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! Today my new packaging labels and magnets arrived. I love the way they turned out...now I'm wishing that I had ordered postcards, notecards, business cards...you name, I want it!

Hot Pink = Happy!

2008-07-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

I found some gorgeous hot pink beads on Etsy! How can you look at pink beads and not get happy?

You can see these beauties up close if you visit my FAVORITES list....

More new doll forms

2008-07-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

I just finished putting these new forms in my shop. The Tree Spirit is 12 inches tall with 10 inch wide roots. Anyone that decided to take on the monumental task of beading her will really have their work cut out for them! She's probably one of the largest doll forms (for beading) that I've ever made.

The smaller doll form is a little over 6 inches tall. I'm currently beading one this size...it's been a slow process though. Mainly because I'm always juggling several different things all at once and rarely devote all my time to doing one single project. I'll share pics of her once I get a little further along in the process.

Etsy - Favorite Finds

2008-07-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

I love to search Etsy! And I probably spend waaaay too much time doing it...but it can't be helped, there are just so many fun things to find...like a treasure hunt! Here are some of my latest finds...

1. angrybunny - Apatite half strand.

2. AKDLampwork - High Tide lampwork bead.

3. imakebeads - Turquoise with Lime lampwork beads.

4. lulaballou - Gadget case.

5. HelloCrafty - Dirty Girl green apple soap.

6. marmar - You Jerk earrings.

Comfort Doll Project

2008-07-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

In an effort to get even more people involved in the Comfort Doll Project, I will be offering a free blank doll form (one freebie per person please) to anyone that purchases a doll form from my etsy shop during the month of July. I'm hoping that these free forms will be embellished and donated to the project. If you have not heard of this wonderful grassroots project to bring hope, love and encouragement to women in need, you can learn more about the Comfort Doll Project HERE.

Collage Machine

2008-07-02T11:17:00.000-07:00

I just made this cool little collage using the Collage Machine. Not that i was bored or didn't have something else that i SHOULD be doing...it just looked FUN and took my mind off how loud the neighbors are being this week! I'm pretty sure that there is something i'm supposed to be doing right now but I haven't been able to concentrate since the neighbors are running some sort of loud buzzing power tool and have their stereo cranked up while listening to what sounds like talk radio. I can't think with all this distraction let alone work in the studio.

Last week was different. i felt inspired! With as peaceful and serene as these new doll forms look, you can tell they weren't made while my neighbors were being noisy.... The purple one has been shipped off for the Arizona Doll Artists round robin. The green one I saved for another project i've been working on. And the other three are already with new owners.

Larger bird forms

2008-06-23T12:18:00.001-07:00

Well, the half beaded butterfly prototype was tossed into the UFO box for another time. I just wasn't happy with the way it was coming together so I went back to working on birds. My muse took over and decided she wanted a bird that was slightly larger with a longer tail...and what the muse wants, she gets! You'll soon see these "new and improved" birds popping up in my etsy shop.

Cloth Birds

2008-06-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, these little birds I'm been make over the past few weeks have turned out to be really popular. Here's a custom order that was mailed a couple days ago...and now I'm starting on another custom flock.

Also in the works....a new butterfly kit. I stitched up the prototype butterfly late last night and will hopefully have some free time to start beading tonight to see if it will work well as a kit.

Road Trip

2008-05-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

We're heading out the door shortly! But I will be adding Twitters and Twitpics to my blog (right hand column ---->) throughout the trip if anyone wants to see what I'm up to ;-)

Here's a pic of our "casita" for the week....don't worry, it's much less cramped when it's popped open. See ya on the coast!

Graduation

2008-05-28T11:50:00.000-07:00

It was a super busy weekend here. We had a house FULL of people and mountains of food for Courtney's graduation party. My little girl is all grown up! I didn't get any good pictures of all the goodies we made for the feast but did discover that there was one lonely cupcake pop left....so i ate it for breakfast this morning! Yummmmmmmm..... You can find the recipe for cupcake pops on Bakerella's blog.

Now I'm off to get ready for our trip to the CA coast. Since we'll be camping out, internet access may be few and far between. But I'll still be able to add Twitter updates and Twitpics with my phone. If you want to keep tabs on me, my Twitters are located in the right column in my blog. ------->

PS. any purchases made from my Etsy shops or website after May 29th will not be shipped until the second week of June.

The patio

2008-05-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

And yet another project i've been working on for the past few weeks. After 138 retaining wall blocks, 13 tons of gravel (mainly for xeriscaping the entire back yard), and over 2 tons of sand(we may need more), we're finally ready to lay the flagstone.

We had just over 4100 pounds of flagstone delivered....that's a lot of heavy lifting! We started with leveling stone along the edge and working inward. After way too many hours of this I got bored and decided to start tossing stones into the center to see if i could come up with a more interesting design. Hubby (that's him in the photo checking to see if the sand is level....it's not) and I both started sorting through the pallet of stones and came up with a sunburst pattern.

We hope to be completely finished with the patio within the next 10 days....and after that, well, i'm currently researching how to build a stone water fountain. We should have plenty of stone leftover for the project.

Beaded bird in progress

2008-05-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've completed any beading projects. I just can't seem to find the time to bead. So I started small. Here is my latest work in progress... a beaded bird. Since it is rather small (about 2x3), I should be able to make time to actually finish it!
I began by stiching the eyes and brick stitch beak to the blank bird form, then began covering it with turquoise and green seed beads (mainly backstitch), and a little fringe plume on top. Halfway done after just a few hours of beading. I think if I can manage to make an entire flock of birds they would look adorable hanging from the rafters on my back deck.

If anyone wants to bead along with me, I now have two bird forms for sale on Etsy... I plan to sew up more of these today in a rainbow of colors.

Old is new again

2008-04-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

We've had this dirty old chair and ottoman for about 11 years now...well it wasn't dirty when we first bought it but now it looks like it has seen better days. It was definitely time for a new look. One weekend we drove all over town with it in the back of my truck, from upholsterer to upholsterer, trying to get an estimate of what it might cost to have it recovered. The ball park figure was around $800 for fabric and labor! I was floored to discover that I could go out and buy a new chair for the same price of having my old one recovered. So I decided I would try my hand at doing it myself. and so here's a look at the project I've been working on this past few weeks....

I didn't really get a good BEFORE picture. I had already started ripping it apart when it occured to me that I should probably take pictures so I can remember how it goes back together. But you get the idea. The pink flowery shabby chic fabric no longer fit in with the rest of the living room...plus it had been abused for 11 years by the kids. I bought 10 yards (I think I overestimated by about 2 yards) of black/brown upholstery fabric and got to work.

Putting it back together wasn't even the hard part. the hardest part of the entire project was pulling out all the old staples. It went slowly and I had to be careful not to rip the old fabric since I would be using it as a pattern to cut my new fabric.

And here it is, not quite finished. I still need to put on the side, back and bottom panels, add the feet to the bottom. Reupholstery for beginners is certainly not for the faint of heart. It was very challenging but I enjoyed it so much that I have been pondering the idea of buying thrift store furniture to reupholster in super funky fabrics.

Now it's time for a new table cloth and new curtains! Oh and that green cup on the table is FILLED completely with old staples.

Spring Giveaway winner!

2008-04-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Fern in New York! She is the winner of the Kivett Studio $25 gift certificate....Thanks to everyone that participated.

Fern, your gift certificate has been emailed to you ;-)

Another hungry bunny!

2008-04-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

I think my house is in serious need of a Spring cleaning! I keep finding monsters hiding in dark places. I found this one in my closet eating a cupcake. Meet Hungry Bunny and his Carrot Cupcake. He may look vicious but as long as he has some munchies nearby he's perfectly harmless and loves to cuddle. He's up for adoption in my Etsy shop.

Those of you that are on my newsletter list already know about the Kivett Studio Spring Giveaway...but for those of you that have not yet heard, I'm giving away a $25 gift certificate that can be spent in any one of my shops! Today is the last day to enter. Anyone that makes a purchase from Kivett Studio will be entered into the random drawing. The winner will be announced on my birthday, April 16th...Good Luck!

1000 Jewelry Inspirations

2008-04-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

Many months ago I contributed beadwork for an upcoming book. I just received word from the author that 1000 Jewelry Inspirations is now available for preorder on Amazon. I've not yet seen inside but from the cover it looks like it's going to be full of eye candy!

Pink Artist Doll

2008-04-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already heard, the Pink Artist Doll, appropriately named "Love Squared", is finally finished!

The 182 artists that helped to create this symbolic doll did such a wonderful job coming together to produce such a meaningful piece of art that will touch the hearts of many. But it would not have been possible without all the planning and effort that was put forth by Monica (Girl Gone Thread Wild). She did an AMAZING job bringing us all together and adding the finishing touches. To see of this beautiful doll visit Monica's blog.

And, keep a look out for her to appear in the pages of Art Doll Quarterly in the future ... she should be making the journey as we speak.

Fallen Stars

2008-03-25T18:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a loooong time since I've listed any ebay auctions. But who could resist when ebay threw sellers a bone by offering penny listings. I thought it might be fun to offer a couple of auctions with a starting bid of just 99 cents. Pop over and take a peek at my fallen stars ;-)

And since the studio is overflowing with doll forms, I also have them for sale in my shiny new shopping cart (courtesy of CartFly) at my website and in my Etsy Shop... I'm just all over the place these days!

Monster plushies

2008-03-18T14:51:00.000-07:00

And when I get tired of sewing doll forms it's time to sew new monster plushies! These are a few that have been finished..in the works are monster cupcakes, bumble bees, birdies and a killer clown! So far I've only gotten as far as sketches on those but it won't take long to bring them to life.

Still sewing....

2008-03-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

My house is being taken over by doll forms...luckily about a dozen of them will be going to live with their new owner this weekend! It was getting a little crowded here in the studio....

Etsy Favorites - Pink

2008-03-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

I think one of my favorite things about etsy is that I can save a list of favorite items...and being somewhat of a perfectionist, I've managed to save my favorites by color! Here are just a few of the favorites I saved while browsing through all the beads I found on Etsy today....

If you would like to see more of my favorites , saved by color of cousre, check HERE.

psssst...my birthday is coming up next month...teehee!

Kivett Studio Etsy Shop

2008-03-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to adding blank bead doll forms to Etsy in the Kivett Studio Shop...this is a separate shop from the Zzbeadz Boutique, which is turning into mainly finished art pieces, art dolls and plushies. Usually I just sell blank doll forms when someone emails with a custom request or I sell them directly from my website. Well, my website has been giving me problems lately, so I haven't been able to update it thoroughly for quite a while now. I've been considering closing it down completely with all the headaches it's been bringing but for the moment I have no where else to keep my free patterns available to everyone...so the website stays up....for now...

If you're in need of blank doll forms, please check out my new (ish) shop!

www.KivettStudio.Etsy.com

The Pink Artists

2008-02-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

Monica (Girl Gone Thread Wild) is hosting an artist collaboration for charity called "The Pink Artists". All proceeds will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Since I don't know anyone close to me that has had to battle breast cancer, I decided to make a single square with a handstitched "yo-yo cervix" in the center for each woman in my family (including myself) that has had their own experience with cervical cancer.

Thanks for hosting this project Monica.... my squares are on the way!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T10:25:00.000-08:00

Burger Time Widget

2008-02-12T16:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, people have got to stop making widgets....they suck up all my time! I remember this arcade game, used to play it when i was a kid! Compared to the games they make these days for Wii and PlayStation, it totally sucks but back then it was pretty cool.

Remodeling

2008-02-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been 4 months since i've updated my blog. Let's play catch-up!

It all started with the kitchen remodel...back in mid september. We decided to do most of the work ourselves and discovered it would take all of our free time.

Here are a few before and after shots of the kitchen. The before photo was taken when the previous owner lived here. Notice the scary pink and turquoise southwestern style border along the ceiling that we had grown to despise.....GONE!

We updated the cabinets by removing the old finish and staining them a dark chocolate mohogany color. Hubby sanded his heart out while I was in charge of staining, glazing and sealing.

Painted the walls a dusty purple. Layed our own porcelain tile. Had Cambria Quartz counter tops installed. And the icing on the cake....shiny new appliances! It was a lot of work, but well worth the effort! I have a few photos in my Flickr gallery if you're interested in seeing the disaster that we called a kitchen during the process of the remodel.

Now we're in the process of remodeling our bedroom ceiling after a water pipe exploded from the cold and flooded the attic. Hopefully that won't take more than a few weekends to fix.

I've also been doing a little remodeling of my blog over the last few months. It still doesn't look exactly the way I had envisioned so I'll just keep working on it little by little.

Speaking of remodeling, for the new year someone remodeled my car by running a stop sign and plowing into me! Not exactly smartest way to remodel a car...but that's a story for another time.

Plush Team Contest

2007-10-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

The Etsy Plush Street Team is having their very first contest, October 8-10! Registered Etsy.com members can join the "treasure hunt" and enter to win a box full of plushie goodness...check out the Plush Team Blog for a peek at the prize and all the details.

Bead Grab Bags

2007-09-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

In an effort to recycle beads that I no longer need or use, I am now offering Bead Grab Bags!

Each reusable fabric Grab Bag measures approximately 3 inches wide by 4 inches tall and will contain a random selection of approximately 4 - 6 packets of misc. glass or gemstone beads in a variety of shapes and sizes, that have been liberated from my own personal stash of beads.

Many of these beads were originally purchased in bulk quantities and are of good quality...although some are of questionable origin (meaning, I can't recall how I obtained them) and of questionable quality.... BUT all can be used in a variety of beading, art or assemblage projects.

The photo to the above represents some of the beads that will be included in the grab bags. This selection will change often. Please keep in mind that I will prepackage grab bags and you will receive a completely random selection of beads in a random variety of colors.If you enjoy sorting through beads and treasure hunting, this is a great way to build a variety of beads for your stash.

Bead Grab bags are $4 each and can be found at my website!

www.kivett-studio.com

NOTE: Thanks to all that purchased Grab Bags...I'm currently sold out!

Freak Show Teddy Bear

2007-08-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I have a slightly twisted sense of humor.....

Crazy Quilt Dolls

2007-07-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

I've been stitching away on doll forms and art dolls. This is a photo of some of my latest endeavors....the doll on the left will be my next beading project and I made extras to sell. If anyone wants to work along with me, I just listed a form on Ebay and will probably get more done sometime after my mother in law comes for a visit this weekend. Friday night we have plans to go out for some great mexican food and then see Stevie Nicks in concert....it should be fun!

In the meantime, i really need to tidy up the house before she gets here.

Polymer Clay Faces on Etsy

2007-07-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

I stayed up into the wee hours last night painting faces. Sometimes I just become so focused that it's hard to tear myself away.

These face cabs are completely flat and only 1/8 inch thick. I've heard many beaders say that they don't like the way most face cabs protrude from the head of the doll form...and i agree, I like the dolls face to appear as though it is part of the overall doll design not some strange afterthought jutting outward. I just started working on a doll project using one of these faces...if i can find some extra time i will share progress photos.

In the meantime, you can purchase these new faces in my etsy shop! Just click the image to browse through my offerings....

EDIT: wow those went quick....i'll add more soon ;-)

mr. can

2007-07-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

And just incase you were wondering what i did today....you're lookin at it. meet mr.can...waverly's refreshing new pal....yes this is what i do all day when the kids are out of school. certainly was not a very productive day i might add!

Summer Strawberries

2007-06-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Instead of the typical doll forms that are floating around, i thought it would be fun to bead something a little different.... STRAWBERRIES! I didn't really use a pattern when cutting these, just freehanded them, so each one is going to be unique. I LOVE strawberries, unfortunately i can't eat them due to allergies....one bite and they turn me all red and splotchy in random places on my body. Although every so often I'll risk the rash and sneek a nibble....usually in mid summer at the height of strawberry season when the grocery stores are overstocked and it's so hard to resist the temptation.

If you too need some strawberries to bead, instead of eat, i have extra forms available at my website. Just click the strawberries to head over there :-)

And just a quick update for Bead E art Zine #5.....ALL preorders have been shipped! Most of you have probably already gotten your copy by now. if you haven't then please let me know.

EDITED TO ADD:

Well I can't wait to see everyones beaded strawberries!

And since there IS some interest in beading something other than dolls....maybe I'll see what other fun forms I can come up with this summer. Any suggestions will be cheerfully attempted ;-)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EDITED AGAIN so i can keep track of ideas:

So far form suggestions include....

dolphins

leaves

more fruit

anything outerspace

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We'll see what i can come up with once these kids go back to school!

xoxo....
Ronda

Zine assemblage

2007-06-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

I'm still assembling zines and am only halfway done with what i had hoped to get finished by last night....sorry no zines were shipped today as previously planned, preorders will definitely go this this week though!

Since i'm knee deep in zine stuff, i haven't been keeping up with emails....i apoligize if i owe you one, hopefully i'll get to it....eventually....

Bead E Art Zine 5

2007-06-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

Number 5 is nearly ready! Having the kids out of school only slowed me down a little. Today I'm finishing up the instructions on the last article and plan to start packaging shipments this weekend so preorders will start shipping on Monday!

Bead Journal Project-June

2007-06-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of my June journal page for the Bead Journal Project. I haven't decided what size or shape my journal pages will be, so I started by making an applique that can be stitched down once I make the page.

Beaded ATC's on Etsy

2007-05-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

I have some new items popping up in my Etsy Shop...beaded ATC's! The studio is overflowing with them and as new listings sell i will be adding more.

Thanks to those of you that have preordered Bead E Art Zine #5. So far everything is still on schedule and your copy should go into the mail sometime around the first or second week of June. If you ordered early you'll also get goodies... I got more orders than expected after that initial "preorder" announcement but still hope to include something with all those orders that have already come in.

Finally! Bead E Art Zine #5 preorders

2007-05-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

Bead E Art Zine #5 is nearly complete! I'm taking preorders for this issue at my website. Copies are expected to ship by mid June.

Sorry no cover photo as of yet...i still haven't decided what to feature on the cover.

Bead E Art Zine ads

2007-04-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

To help offset intial printing costs, I have ad space available for Bead E Art Zine #5!

Rates are as follows and you'll also receive a copy of the issue in which your ad appears.

Business card 2" x 3" - $20 per issue
1/4 page layout 3.5" tall x 4.5" wide - $25 per issue
1/2 page layout 7" tall x 4.5" wide - $30 per issue

Painted Faces

2007-04-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

There is just something so very soothing about sitting down in a quiet room and painting tiny faces.

Easter card from Mei

2007-04-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

Today I received this lovely Easter card from my friend Megan Noel. Thanks Mei, I love it!
You can find more of her beautiful illustrations in her etsy shop... http://www.meinoel.etsy.com/ .

Spring Cleaning / Organizing

2007-04-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

I'll be listing items on Ebay all this week! It's time to clear out some kits, doll forms and artwork to make way for the new. Not just for the new forms and artwork i've been creating but the new ideas that have been swirling around inside my head. The only way i can get them out is if my studio is clean and i have room to work. And the only way this studio is ever going to get clean is if i just let go of my need to be a packrat, remove items that i no longer use and try to get organized! Sounds easy enough...until you stand there, looking at all the clutter, and ask yourself Where do i begin. It feels like an overwhelming never-ending task, getting and keeping the studio clean, but it must be done every now and then to keep my mind clear and focused on my own self expression....instead of worrying about the mess.

To get organized I've been adding extra shelves to the bookcases and have bought a boat load of baskets. I also have boxes that can be used for storage...not just any old boxes, they must look good too, so i've covered the boring old boxes with black and white toile contact paper to match my decor. Each one labeled to make finding what i need a snap. It's a slow process but will be well worth the effort once it's done.

EDIT: For those of you that may be interested, I found my black and white toile contact paper on ebay :-)

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

Time for a Spring Cleaning ( i could really use a new refridgerator because the old one is making strange clunking noises in the middle of the night and keeping me awake) Sale....I'll be listing bead kits and dolls forms (maybe some artwork and who knows what else) on ebay all this week. Yes i know it's probably delusional thinking that I can possibly make enough money this week to buy a new fridge but humor me by at least checking out my auctions ;-)

Tree Spirit Class April 25th

2007-03-07T09:26:00.000-08:00

The next online Tree Spirit Class begins April 25th, 2007.
Registration is now open. Sign up early, space is limited.

Click here for REGISTRATION information.

Kivett Studio Subscriptions

2007-02-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

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Bead E Art Zine Back Issues

2007-01-31T13:55:00.000-08:00

Today i've listed back issues of Bead E Art Zine #3 "The Shrine Art Issue" on ebay... included in one of the auctions is the original cover art. I'm also clearing out some bead goddess kits...you can check out my auctions HERE!

Seller: Zzbeadz on Ebay

I can feel changes coming

2007-01-31T13:32:00.000-08:00

I've decided that 2007 is going to be the year that i "accomplish wonderful things" for myself and will put in a great deal of effort to reach some of my personal goals as an artist.

my studio is clean....well, somewhat clean.... and i finally have some heat in here (the gas stove needed repair). now, when i first moved to AZ i was under the impression it would be warm and sunny all year round, but this was not the case.....occasionally it gets cold, especially in an unheated sunroom. working in the freezing cold was just too unbearable and was slowing me down in my quest to "accomplish wonderful things"....

i've been super busy lately trying to finish projects with upcoming deadlines. things i really want to get out of the way so i can get started on much bigger personal projects. and as usual, i'm in over my head and running out of time to get things done...so i've been avoiding the internet which always sucks up way too much of my time. and no i'm not avoiding you, i'm just weeks behind on reading and answering emails.

Idiot Girls Christmas

2006-12-27T17:27:00.000-08:00

An Idiot Girl's Christmas: True Tales from the Top of the Naughty List

This is what i happen to be reading right now. i spotted it at B&N and snatched it up as a gift for a friend of mine....called her up that same night and found out she was on a waiting list at the library to check it out when it comes in, so she was pretty excited to hear she'll be getting it as a gift....which will be as soon as i'm finished with it! i'm sure she'll understand, especially since she's told me numerous times that the "idiot girls" series reminds her of me....

corpse carnations

2006-12-10T18:09:00.000-08:00

I don't really want to sell this one...but then i'm still faced with the fact that i spent all the xmas savings to help courtney buy a car....so it's been listed on ebay anyway....

2006-12-07T00:19:00.000-08:00

The finished figure on the left is now available in my Etsy shop...the other figure is still a work in progress.

As I mentioned previously, a couple of my pieces will be auctioned off to benefit A Place to Bark. You can get a peek at one of my figures that was posted in Bernies blog....she should be coming up for auction sometime over the next two weeks.

Fiber Art Figure on Etsy

2006-11-30T12:05:00.001-08:00

This is the latest addition to my Etsy shop. At 14 inches tall she is, so far, the tallest figure in this series.

This reminds me, the art auctions for A Place to Bark are scheduled to begin on ebay on Dec 1st. i donated one of my figures and a beaded tree spirit but am not sure when they will be listed but will post here if i spot them for sale on ebay! For more about those auctions you can also visit Bernies Blog "A Place to Bark"

Etsy Treasury List

2006-11-28T19:46:00.000-08:00

Whoohoo....I was in the right place at the right time and finally got to make a Treasury List of quirky little creatures on Etsy!! too bad i ran out of room, there were so many more i could have added. better have a look quick, it only lasts for about 2 days....then "poof" it's gone!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury.php?id=1164767641675U10654

Figuratives in Fabric

2006-11-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

I had hoped to go to Jerome today for some gallery browsing, fall colors and lunch but here it is already after 11am and i'm not gone yet! Maybe i should just stay home and keep working on figures for my updated gallery portfolio...which i have been avoiding and needs to get done asap.

New Brow - the birth of pop surrealism

2006-11-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

someone posted this info on flickr about an art documentary ...i don't see a date for when it will come out anywhere but i really want to see it!

the trailer on you tube...
or
http://www.newbrowfilm.com

Painted Pumpkin

2006-10-30T13:56:00.000-08:00

PiNK DeATH

2006-10-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

Pink Death
11 x 14 x 1.5
Mixed media
Ink and acrylics
Artist matboard and wood

This has been relisted on ebay....click the image to bid.

..and if you were wondering, the reserve price on this is at $32.00.

Bored

2006-10-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when i am bored. This sharpie drawing was done on the back of a priority mail shipping box, that was mailed today...i just kept adding more and more until waverly took the box away from me and told me i was done. although the image you see here has been mirrored and the "happy halloween" added, so it looks twice the size it was on the box.

my sewing machine has started dropping stitches. i took it apart 5 times last night to try to fix it and am so disgusted that i haven't even messed with it yet today. hopefully it's fixed because i still need to finish making halloween costumes and can't really afford to run out and buy a new machine right now.

Burnt toast and marshmallows

2006-10-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

For some odd reason the studio smells like marshmallows and burnt toast...and has for two days now! i can only imagine what strange concoction one of the girls may have been brewing up in here, when i wasn't around, to create such a sickeningly sweet smell...sugar, spice, everything nice and of course a dash of chemical X..... i think the smell is affecting my art. i'll let you be the judge!

Beaded Face Cabs

2006-09-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

Yes it's been another long while since I've posted in my blog. Sometimes i need to step back and examine where i am and where i'm going. Then redirect my energy accordingly.....i'm still working on redirecting my energy and trying to decide which path to take. Sometimes the answer isn't so clear. Or maybe it is clear and i'm procrastinating.

So here's a little glimpse of one of the things i've been working on these days.... other than that, nothing new or exciting going on here ...just me and the beads...and the fabric... and the hum of the sewing machine... and me trying to avoid myself and everyone else.

Busy busy busy

2006-08-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

Once again I find myself not blogging much. i've been up to my elbows in busy! Mainly, for the past few days, working on Bead Society stuff....updating the website, calendar and blog ...putting info into pdf files for members to print from the comfort of their own home....running here and there to do this and that. The same goes for life at home. endless errands, things need to get done and i am the one that usually does it.

The one thing that i have wanted to work on, Bead e Art Zine #5, keeps getting pushed to the bottom of the list....soooo many things to do and so little time!

tarantula on my back deck!

2006-08-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

This creepy crawler was (and still is, as of this moment) hanging out on my back deck. it's only HALF the size of the one that tried to get into the garage a few weeks ago though. Waverly, my 10 year old, found it there on her way in from school today and came running into the house screaming hysterically....which in turn freaked me out considerably, so much so that i was relieved to hear she had only seen a tarantula.

Now i have a huge fear of spiders....and have only encountered two large tarantulas since living in AZ but (and this is a big but) these don't seem to frighten me as much as other arachnids simply because they appear to be pretty slow so i have sufficient time to escape if needed. don't get me wrong, if one ever crawls ON ME i will have a panic attack, jump around like a lunatic and scream like a little girl. i have also taught this maneuver to my children! it's meant to invoke fear into the beast and scare it away...yeah right!

pink polka dot chihuahua

2006-08-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

My little Chihuahua dog measure about 6 inches tall. The pattern is an original design, created after having a strange dream earlier this week about cute little polka dot chihuahuas that loved to have their tummies rubbed. I'm also making extra blank chihuahua forms for beading this week, shown below. They are $20 each (this includes Priority Mail shipping). Email me if you would like to order one!

Jan 2007 UPDATE: All Chihuahua forms are sold out...but you can now purchase the pattern at my website for only $8 plus shipping!

Kathys Lil Creations on Etsy

2006-08-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

My sister Kathy just started selling her unique little girls dresses on Etsy. She hand makes all the lacy skirts on the adorable dresses and attaches them to premade onesies. If you happen to have a little princess in need of some cute little dresses then check out her new etsy store at www.KathysLilCreations.etsy.com

You can also find them for sale Hillbilly Moccasins and Sunshines in located in Branson, Missouri. And at the Country Folks Flea Market in Buffalo, Missouri.

And if you buy something, tell her that her sister sent you!! *wink wink*

Oh and if you're interested in checking out my Etsy store...although there is hardly anything listed there....you can find it here www.zzbeadz.etsy.com

Mixed Media Beadwork - Peyote Stitched Letter Tiles Project

2006-08-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

For those of you interested, I've added the instructions from my Peyote Stitched Letter Tiles Project to the Guides section of Ebay. The article originally appeared in the Bead E Art Zine #2 in 2003 ..... the Ebay Guide version has been updated. You can find the guide HERE . If you enjoy the guide and find it useful please be sure to click the yes button at the bottom of the page.

I'm Back

2006-08-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm finally catching up, with emails and my blog, after returning from our trip to San Diego. While there we visited Sea World and the Zoo. For anyone going I highly recommend Sea World. The kids loved it and there were plenty of opportunities to get off your feet and enjoy a show. We made the mistake of visiting the Zoo the day before our last and by then we were exhausted and there is a lot of walking involved with exploring the Zoo. Although they have bus tours, which we didn't take, it appears you can't see much from the bus and would end up missing a great deal if you didn't jump off and walk. Needless to say, my feet are incredibly sore and I got waaaay too much sun....enough to last me for the rest of this summer anyway!

work in progress...

2006-07-21T14:45:00.000-07:00

Here is my work in progress in it's raw stage...

i've stitched the parts together.

and here the same figure has been painted with a base coat, something a little more neutral that the hot pink patterned fabric that was used to create the figure. several more layers ahead of me before she is done....

oh and date night tonight...whooohooo....both girls have plans... if i had a dollar for everytime these girls said i'm bored this week i would be so very rich! thankfully school starts in about 3 weeks.

Graceful Girl - Mermaid

2006-07-19T23:05:00.000-07:00

I've been so incredibly busy lately with Bead Society stuff that i haven't had a chance to work on much of anything else these days or post any new blog entries. Today i did manage to finish another doll in my Graceful Girl series though.....she's roughly 8 inches tall, made of fabric, polymer clay, collaged paper and paint.

We'll be heading to San Diego soon for a well deserved vacation. I'm looking forward to lounging on the beach and I think this doll reflects that.... she's been listed on ebay if you would like to add her to your collection! click the image to the right to take a peek at the listing...;-)

Graceful girl - doll series

2006-07-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

I'm really having fun with the graceful girl series....this doll was washed in magenta then in black to tone the brightness down a bit. i did a small amount of beading and wire wrapping to create the crown. i stayed up waaaay past my bedtime last night working on her...which wasn't hard to do with all the fireworks and sirens going off last night.

We spent our 4th of july quietly at home. not that we didn't try to have a little fun. we started off by heading to the park where they shoot off the fireworks but it was so overly crowded and the girls couldn't find an open area to play frisbee, so we ended up going home. which was fine with me, i'm a homebody and would rather stay in and make art anyway.... ;-)

Beady art cards

2006-07-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

I thought about listing these on ebay but i'm wondering if i should just wait until after the holiday. so many people are outside playing instead of sitting at home shopping on ebay.on the other hand i really need to bank up some extra spending money for our summer vacation...we're finally going to San Diego next month!

Post it Notes

2006-07-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

If you've kept up with my Flickr account...i like to refer to it as my visual blog...then you may recognize this photo from a couple months ago.for those of you that have no idea what that is...well Waverly, my daughter, couldn't manage to eat her entire breakfast that morning in one sitting.... so she left a post it note on the waffle so I wouldn't throw it out! i'm sure she gets it from me. my life revolves around little messages scribbled on post it notes. without them my life would be complete chaos and nothing would get done.

once again waverly is sticking post it notes on things she leaves on the dining room table....well at least we know who this open can of Dr pepper belongs too!

And speaking of soda...i don't know if this is new or if i just never noticed it before but i tried it and i love it....Manzanita Sol yummmmmmm ... apple flavored,it's a pepsi product.