Odeda by Cloven

Back in March, the ladies of Madame Scodioli, Cloven, and Mata Hari’s Daughter got together for an incredible photoshoot…and I regret to say that if it hadn’t been for work, I would have been part of the mix, too!   (Of course, there is always next time…and I plan on being there!)

Even though I’m sad to have missed out, I am absolutely elated to now own my (bellydancer) namesake necklace, Odeda.  Lovingly and gorgeously handcrafted by the incomparable Cloven, this beauty has weight, texture, a rich finish…everything I love.  In fact, the artist describes it better than me, so here’s a little more about it from her:

Stunning rays of ultra-violet, sunset pink and molten gold radiate from rough cut Quartz Crystal, dressed with a bronze titanium coating.
At the center of the this beauty sits a vintage, faceted red brass focal plate element.
The back is finished with alternating Amethyst rondelles and vintage gold glass barrel beads, completed with a final crystal point.

And since I missed out on the official photo shoot, I thought I would have a mini-shoot.  Also, if you’re looking for some real eye-candy, be sure to check out the Carvan Conjurings Spring 2013 look book, which is a work of art in itself!

Jaleo Shawlette: New Knitting Pattern!

It’s finally here!!

This pattern was inspired by feisty, fiery flamenco dance, hence the name “Jaleo,” which is a term that refers to the encouraging shouts called out to flamenco dancers while they’re performing.

It does look a little complex, but this piece could be accomplished by any ambitious beginning knitter.  Right now I have the pattern available here for $5, and I plan to have it listed up on Ravelry very, very soon… I hope you enjoy!

More changes.

For the last year or so, really, I’ve been constantly mentioning that where creativity is concerned, I am refocusing.  Or that I’m trying to refocus.  Or that, at least, I need to refocus!  I’ve tried a number of different things, had a few false starts, and, in general, felt like I have no idea what I really want to do.  Deep down, I do know what I want to do, but I have been feeling this continual creative burnout.

So, while others are trying to *quit* their day jobs, I decided I needed to *get* a day job.  Something completely different from what I’ve been doing, in hopes that it will allow me to take a break from the creative stuff and come back with new motivation.  And so far?  I think it’s really working!!  (The only problem now is finding  time to carry out all of my excellent  ideas…but that’s another story.)

Here’s what I’ll tell you now: Ligermilk is still up and running.  I also hope to be bringing some new knitted designs to you soon, too.  For the time being, though, Lady Odeda is on hiatus.  But take heart!  I am scheming and planning and working so that in Summer 2013 (hopefully!) I can bring her back, better than ever.

Or, at least, that’s today’s plan…  ;)

In the meantime, I also hope to become a better blogger.  Oh, and maybe finish that music video I’d been working on…since last summer.  And, um, hopefully get my studio cleaned up.  Did I mention that I’d also like to revive The Kansas Creative?  Oy…….

Tribal Cuff Trio: (Sub)urban Gypsy

Say hello to this tribal cuff trio!  Inspired by traditional Kuchi jewelry, but with a fibery twist.  These wrist cuffs utilize a few simple stitch techniques to create a plethora of texture.  The two wider cuffs are knit in the around, and the smallest one is knit flat, then sewn up at the side.  These are a great way to use up any little odd balls…and the pattern is now available for sale on my Ravelry page!

 

Spring Craftacular!

What an eventful day!  But before I can share any of that, I thought I had better finally talk about the Craftacular!  (Better late than never, right?!)

It was a great show, if not a little slow…I think it was the amazing weather that kept people outdoors and away from the show, but such is life!  Nevertheless, there were some amazing vendors and I am so grateful for them!!   These are just a few of the many pictures I took…if you’d like to see more, head on over to the official Craftacular facebook page and check out the photo album.

It was such a treat to have my friend Lorrie from Oh Yarn It! and Tools & Totes come down all the way from McPherson!

 

 

It was also fantastic to have Riley (Madame Scodioli’s infamous assistant) come down for the day!

 

 

 

 

Pink Elephant Embellishments brought same fantastic pieces of steampunk inspired jewelry…

And WildFire Accessories was there, too!  (Remember my gorgeous necklace?)

Wall Work had some spectacular original pieces, and if you want to try your hand at her designs, she also has  patterns available for sale.

The dolls from Little Prairie Handmade/e plus l  are shown here, along with their darling dresses…aww!!

 

Cats Paw Pottery had some beautiful pottery pieces…

And I always love what the mother-daughter team Grey Vintage and Picture Attic bring!!

Elegant as always, Bead-stylin brought some of her gorgeous jewelry.

 

My Yellow Umbrella had some sweet wares, including baby things, camera straps, and more…unfortunately I didn’t get to snap as many photos at her booth as I would have liked–it was a pretty popular hangout spot! 

Sweet & Savory

Phew!  Craftacular happened.  It will be blogged about later.  ;)

I will tell you now, however, that I have finally gotten myself one of Wildfire Accessories’ amazing penny necklaces, and I just adore it!

Annnd, today I opened up the most deliciously scented package…receiving something from Madame Scodioli is always a treat, but there were some fabulous extras in this one which made it all the more wonderful!!  And the warm, exotic scents are perfect for brightening up this dreary day.  If you haven’t tried Madame’s wares yet, what are you waiting for?!  Her stuff is incredible.  Heck, she is incredible!

1.  Geek Scrub by Madame Scodioli

2.  Penny Necklace by WildFire Accessories

3.  Solid Scent by Madame Scodioli (Fortunato and Aged Bourbon)

Cosmic Pink

You cannot go wrong with pink, and today’s treasury is simply glowing with it…enjoy!

1.  slingshot by  HellaSlingshots

2. necklace by ResinRoad 

3.  photo print by BreeMadden

4.  pouch by lazydoll

5.  pillow by Pillowation 

6.  tea towel by LesMiniboux

7.  leggings by adriennebutikofer

8.  shirt by  hellominky

9.  bowl set by WindandWillowHome 

10.  journal by bonjourfrenchie

11.  ring by monocircus

12.  clutch by WrapMeinGlitter

13.  nylon cord by wishwrist

14.  pouch by madeshoppe

15.  feathers by KIMONOSFeathers

16.  perfume by BubbleandFlameNH