New Year, New Plan

Hi Girls,
Michele and Sue hosted a wonderful gathering at Michele's home on Friday past - thank you Michele and Sue...everything was delightful and we missed everyone that could not participate!

As promised, those in attendance at Michele's - Donna, Melissa [Donna's daughter and newest member to our little group], Maura, Miriam, Sue, Michele and me - discussed the upcoming new year and where did we want this group to go….I had input from Lori, Mary, Janice and Peggy that I shared.  

One recommendation we had was to have a "purpose" for our group, along with the social part, to maybe participate Art Abandonment 2015 or the 1000 Cranes for Hope and Healing project.  Another idea was for each gathering someone would host (providing some snacks) and someone different would teache/lead a project (and provide the supplies).  There would be a fee for the "class" based on the project. It would be a way to keep us meeting on a regular basis and keep the art new and fresh, as we would always be learning something different.  The projects can be as simple or complex as the teacher/leader wants.  Another idea was to hold a gathering and everyone bring their own project to do - similar to a crop.  This way there is no pressure on anyone come up with a project.  All these are great ideas and we can do all of them - and so much more!  

What we [everyone at Michele's that is] all thought was, foremost, we wanted to keep the group moving forward.  Yes, it is social; yes it is a learning experience at times; at other times it can be a time to get together and share friendship while doing your own thing; yes there will be food or snacks either provided or bring your own - or not; yes you can hold a gathering at Michael's or in your home, or wherever you like.  With all that being said, we also decided that we do not need a moderator.  Every time there is a gathering someone from the group will pick a time and place to host the next gathering - or one in the future.  If you would like to do a holiday or summer, just say that's the one I want.  If you only want to host, that's fine, someone else can choose to show a project to do, or repeat an old one….or, again, we can just have a gathering and bring your own project to do.  We felt that if we keep it simple and not have to many guidelines it may just work out.  However, everyone should step up to the plate and host a gathering or project….there are many of us in the group who would be willing to help if someone is unsure of a project, theme, or whatever.  There is a wealth of talent among us and all are willing to share.  

Miriam and I will be hosting the next gathering in honor of Valentine's Day….date, time and place will be announced soon.  If there is a fee, we will also let you know.  At this gathering will we again discuss our group's new plan for the upcoming year - any input will be greatly appreciated by all.  We even discussed hosting our own, small, intimate, crop and may even have a place to hold it….we were all excited for the coming year and hope you will be, too!

As Maura's previous post said, we will not be using Facebook, Yahoo or the Blog any longer.  We ask you to send either Maura or I an email so we can compile a list of active members with their email address.  We will then share this information with the group.  When we need to contact each other, it will be strictly through emails….as soon as we can get the list up and running.  So please, if you want to be an active member, send one of us your email address.

Any questions contact anyone of us who was at Michele's - wishing everyone a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving . . . 

fran

Changes Ahead!

We will be moving forward using an email list to let everyone know of the upcoming gatherings and events and moving away from Yahoo Groups, this blog, and Facebook. If you are interested in receiving these emails, and have not given Fran your information, please email Maura at onecraftystamper@gmail.com and let me know you would like to be added to the list by December 15.
Thanks and have a wonderful holiday season!

Moving Forward???

Hi everyone,

I know many of you are not attending Michele and Sue's gathering on Friday evening.  As this is the last time we will meet this year as a group, we need to discuss whether or not we are moving forward with "In My Vintage Room" or laying it to rest.  As you are all aware, Doris has resigned as moderator.  I am NOT looking for the role of moderator but I am concerned as to whether or not we will proceed as a group and someone needs to get the ball rolling [or not].  What I am asking everyone who is active, to let me know by Friday if you want to go forward or not.  I would also like to know where you see this group going in 2015 - what do you want us "to do".  I, for one, am growing out of space for any more 4 x 4's or ATC's - of course that is just me, swaps of this nature can still be offered for those who are still interested.  Do we want to continue doing swaps of another type?  Do we want to alter something as a "reveal" or as a "swap"?  Do we want the gatherings to continue?  On this subject of gatherings, I will say this, if we still want the gatherings to continue WE ALL HAVE TO TAKE PART IN HOSTING….if you can not do the month you chose then it can be switched with someone else.  I think this is of upmost importance.  I strongly feel everyone needs to take a turn at hosting…..remember, you have a wealth of talented people at your fingertips to help you with your gathering if you are a novice, feel intimidated or just need some ideas.  The gatherings are fun and we all get to share time, camaraderie and talent.

There are many roads we can take but the main question here is DO WE WANT TO CONTINUE WITH THIS GROUP?  Any ideas, concerns or comments need to be brought forward.  We can decide at this gathering, or in February as Miriam would like to host a Valentine's gathering in February.  Remember, with the availability of Michael's at Crossgate Commons, no one has to host in their home unless they choose to.  

So please, take a moment to think about this and get back to me, either through the group, on the blog or to me personally @ franpascazio@gmail.com.   I will take all information to Michele's and we can see what we may or may not want to do.  Also, please do not think I'm trying to take over because that is not the case here; I have known many of you for a long time and it would be very sad to me not to be able to see you all.  We can keep this going if there are only a few of us interested.

Thanks,

fran

Update on Art Gathering

Lori and I are canceling the spooktacular gathering scheduled for the 24th. It has turned out to be a busy time for our members, and not enough folks able to make it.

We hope you all enjoy your Halloween and hope to see you at the next one!

 

Spooktacular Art Gathering!

 

Results of the Seasons Swap

Thank You to those that swapped....

                                          Doris

                                          Maura

                                          Janice

                                          Laura

                                    

Swap for Halloween

Can be SPOOKY, VINTAGE or CUTE

 Donna Lagone would like to host a swap

3 for 3 ATC's Halloween Ornaments.

Must have something that moves on them and must hang.

Due October 24th,  bring to Lori and Maura's Gathering and we will swap.

or mail to Donna Lagone by the 22nd so she has them for the gathering.

Have Fun Creating...

Save the Date for the Holiday Gathering

Because of the Holidays we are sending you a Save the date notice for the Holiday Gathering at Michele Johnson's Home.  We will be having it on Friday November 21st at 6PM.  Further info will be sent to you by the end of October.  This is just so you can plan with all the holiday events that are coming.
Hope you can join us.

Michele Johnson and Sue Black

Autumn Gathering

 Thanks to all who attended the Autumn Gathering it was a lot fun.   Here are the pictures of the sample banner we made.  I hope everyone was able to finish there's and has it up to welcome the incoming season.                  

 

                

Autumn Welcome Gathering.....NEW DATE

 Autumn

When the trees their summer splendor

Change to raiment red and gold

When the summer moon turns mellow,

And the nights are getting cold;

When the squirrels hide their acorns,

And the woodchucks disappear;

Then we know that it is autumn,

Loveliest season of the year.

                               Charotte L. Riser

Now that I have you thinking about the season that is upon us ...

You are invited to the Autumn Gathering

On Friday, August  22, 2014

At Michaels on Washington Avenue Albany NY

5:30 to 8:30pm
There will be food (to be decided)
drinks, and Autumn themed projects.

Please RSVP as soon as possible
and mail the Gathering Fee of $20.00

 by August 22.

to Doris Santore

(if you need my address let me know)

 

Standard supplies needed tape, inks, glue, scissors and/or  any fall embellishments you might want to use.  One of the projects will be a fall banner.

 

I am sorry for the short notice, your quick response will help me to know how many to plan for.
Thank you Doris

Seasons swap

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer, it's been one that I will remember for sure.  Anyway I know we haven't been to active with swaps lately so I thought I would host one, hoping to get the creative juices flowing
I'm calling it SEASONS ....
Create four (4) little pieces of art 4x4's one for each season summer, fall, winter, spring. This will give you more space to create. (Create 4 get 4).
Requirements use papers, inks, ribbons and your imagination have fun with it.
This swap will be due to me Friday August 29.

Omitted Detail for Fridays Gathering

We forgot  one important 

detail/reminder for Friday's Gathering!!!

If you altered the light bulb from Doris 

and 

the wings from Miriam

please bring them for "show & tell"…

Thanks…

fran & miriam

Supply List for Gathering on June 13th

Hey Girls,

Last notice for Fridays gathering at Michael's @ Crossgates Commons, Washington Ave. Ext., Albany.

Miriam has planned three projects - following is a list of supplies to bring - along with your usual supplies:

• Glue stick, 3-n-1 glue, tape runner or double sided tape
• Tim Holtz Scissors [if you do not have them, we will have ours on hand] and a regular pair of scissors [for cutting paper]
• Distress ink to "dirty-up" edges of paper
• If your changing the theme on your picket fences, please bring whatever it is you want to use to alter the fence
• One of the projects is Tim "Holtzy" - if you have favorite Tim stamps, you can also bring them.
• Black Ink Pad
• IF I HAVE FORGOTTEN ANYTHING I WILL SEND AN EMAIL!!!!!

I have heard from Lori & Beth [who will be unable 

to attend], Doris, Donna & her daughter Melissa, 

Peggy, Maura, Janice, Michele & Sue who are attending.  

Thank you for the RSVP gals, we appreciate it as we were 

able to organize all the necessary items to complete the projects.   

We will be serving pizza, soda & dessert 

so you don't have to worry

about eating.

 If you need to contact us Friday after 5PM please call

 my cell - 817-9655.

We can't wait to see everyone! 

xo

fran & miriam

Whimsy Swap

 Thank you Donna And Maura for creating a Special Whimsy Character for this swap.  I love what you both created, I  am not sure I can give up either of your characters.

 All three Whimsy Character are so creatively different and special. 

     

Donna's Whimsy

Maura's Whimsy

Doris's Whimsy  (I so need to get a better camera).

I will bring your swaps with me to the gathering if that's ok with both of you.

 Again thanks for playing.

Gathering Reminder

Hey girls….

just a reminder that 

Miriam & Fran's [me] gathering is on 

Friday, June 13th at 6PM 

 being held at

 the Michael's Store 
on 

Washington Ave. Ext., Albany.  .  .

[behind the Wal-mart]

Please RSVP  & fees 

to me by June 5th

I have heard from Doris, Janice, Maura,
Lori, Sue, Peggy, Donna & her daughter.

Here is one of the projects that
 Miriam has created  -

We will be altering a white picket fence with fairies, flowers, 

banners and bling [this fence is not quite finished], etc.  Please read

previous post for additional ideas for your fence!

Please remember to bring your altered 

light bulb & angel wings

for "show & tell" . . .

I will update with a
supply list next week!

   

June 2014 Gathering

Hosted by Miriam & Fran

Friday, June 13, 2014

at

Michael's 

Washington Ave. Ext.

Albany, NY

6 - 8:30 PM

Miriam has planned two or three projects for everyone -

one of the projects Miriam chose is a white picket fence that we will alter.

  We will provide "fairies", flowers, 

bling, moss, buttons, etc. to embellish your fence.  

If you would like to add a personal theme

to your fence, for example Halloween, Christmas, etc.,

 you may want to bring some of your own themed ephemera.

Please include with your regular supplies a  

  tape runner, tonic scissors [tim holtz] and regular scissors,

glue stick, an ink pad for distressing, etc.

 I will send out another announcement if 

there is anything else that I forgot to mention to bring, 

***We will be serving pizza, soda & dessert, but

because there are no kitchen facilities we will

 be unable to serve coffee or hot tea***

 PLEASE RSVP by June 5th…

the fee remains at $20.00 

to be paid by June 5th.

{due to Michael's store policy, we cannot

pass money at the gathering; the money needs to be 

paid to me prior to the 5th.  

If you need my address, please email me

franpascazio@gmail.com}

I apologize for this late date announcement 

on the June gathering.  I know it's almost last 

minute, but to be very honest, I was

waiting to hear if there was going to be an

 April gathering or if it was being canceled, moved, etc., 

before Miriam and I decided on a June date.  

We know how busy June is and we

hope that you will have the night free to join us!

Looking forward to seeing everyone!  If you have

any questions, please feel free to contact either one of us.

Hugs,

Miriam & Fran

A Fun Whimsey and different Swap

I have been trying to come up with something different for a swap, and this is what I decided to try.

Start with a small box, a block of wood, a tin, cardboard or what ever you have that can be used as a body.
Next add a head, arms, legs, clothes, these can be made from clay, paper, wood, twigs, flowers whatever you have available.
What you are creating is a funny, cute, whimsical doll something that will make you smile maybe even chuckle when you see it finished.

                                          

 

 

The above are just samples of what I had in mind for this swap, please check Pinterest (Altered Projects, Altered Items etc...) for more ideas.

This will be due to me Friday, May 30th.   I will make arrangements with you for (local) pick up and delivery so she doesn't have to me mailed.  Just let me know when she's ready.

Art Night for May

Please note DATE and LOCATION change for  

May's Art night

May's Project for Art Night 

           

   Day:  Friday May 9th.
   Time:  5:00 - 8:30 pm
   Place:  Michaels 

               161 Washington Ave.

                Albany, NY
  
This month we will be working with 3 different Faber Castell Products
                                              Gelatos
                                              Pitt Artist Pen Big Brush
                                              Paper Crafters Crayons

Don't forget to do your homework: 
  1. Coat a page in your Dylusions Journal with Gel Medium.
  2. Place designed tissue paper on page and ad-here with Gel Medium let dry.
  3. Paint a light coat of Gesso over tissue paper and let dry.


Supplies:
   If you already own any of the products we are using and want to bring them to use.
    Any favorite stamps you have along with black ink you might like to use on your project.
   Scissors,   Water Spray Bottle,  Roll of Paper Towels, Heat Gun, Gesso, Modeling/Embossing

   Paste, Plate Knife.  Please do not go out and buy anything for just for the class...I will share my 

   supplies with you.

Note:
   Please let me know if you will be joining me for class by April 27th.
   Class fee is $15.00 please prepay by April 30th.

Ode to Spring

We know that spring has arrived in certain parts of the world, our friends send us photos of their flowers and sunshine, but here in upstate NY, spring has yet to arrive. So, we crafty and creative folk make our own spring, as you can see in the delightful views of spring expressed in our Spring Fling swap.

Janice

 

Donna

 

Miriam

 

Maura

Thank you for participating in our swap, and I hope these little works of art will bring a bit of that spring feeling into your lives, as we all anticipate it's arrival!

Hey, Girl!

Don't forget - Spring Fling Swap due to Maura by March 22!

Here is one of mine to get you motivated. Thanks Miriam, I have yours ready to play!

Remember, your choice, and 3 for 3.

Spring Fling Swap

Time to get some swaps going, and with all of us thinking spring, why not put our thoughts to creating something that represents spring to us. I will leave it up to you as to how you want to express yourselves...tag, ATC, 4x4, flowers, umbrellas, colors, whatever takes your fancy! Make 3, get 3, due to Maura by March 22 so we can celebrate spring!

Contact Maura at onecraftystamper@gmail.com with any questions.

 

Art Night - March 7th - Reminder

Next Art Night is set for :

                          Date:    Friday. March 7th

                          Time:    6:00 - 8:30

                          Place:    Watervliet Public Library

                                        1501 Broadway

                                        Watervliet, NY 

                           Fee:    $15.00  (to be prepaid by March 3 to Doris)

Please let me know if you are attending by February 26th.

Project:  More Fun with Dyan Reaveley's

 Dylusions Sprays, Stamps and Stencels  

            If you already have a journal you want to use that's ok, but it should be able to take a lot of water, paint and different type of medium. I use Dyan Reaveley's Art Journal by Dylussions. I like this journal best because it takes all kinds of abuse. It can be purchased online through Amazon, Ranger or most online scrapbooking stores that sell Ranger products.
 

note:  we will be using this (a) journal for many of the projects in the future also for our Art Nights.

You can see samples of Dyans work on the Ranger website or go to Pinterest and search Dyan Reaveley 

Supply List

                 scissors,   
                 double sided adhesive
                 3 in one glue,
                 water spay bottle
                 Archival Ink (Black)

                 Tim Holtz  BLACK SOOT Stein and Paint   
                 assorted stamp blocks  (I have some you can use)
                  1 roll of paper towels 
                  heat gun
                  craft mat to work on
                  baby wipes
                  brayer

                  water bursh

   

  Note:  Please do not go out and buy any of these supply items special for this project, I will have mine available to share with you.

Earn Your Wings!

WING IT!!

Get your wings from Miriam, and decorate them in any way you like to bring to Fran and Miriam's Gathering. We will be holding a wing "showing" so you will be taking your wings home with you.

So, be sure to see Miriam to "earn your wings"!

A Heart-full Gathering

Delicious Linzer cookies by Janice

We enjoyed a delightful evening hosted by Mary and Janice - thank you ladies!!! On a cold winter evening, the gathering was a warm and bright place to be. We started with a light repast of mini bbq pork sandwiches, hot drinks, and moved into several delicious desserts...along with the ones pictured, Mary made a traditional flan, which we enjoyed.

Yummy cupcakes!

We had fun chatting and crafting as you can see. Mary came up with a fun altered matchbox project and Janice put together a pop-up card, all Valentine themed.

Happy, smiling faces....

Fran is sharing her projects...

Janice sharing hers....

Inside of Maura's box...

Thank you again Janice and Mary for a great gathering!

Winter Wonder Swap

Sharing the delightful winter wonders that were swapped.

Donna's

 

 

 

 

Great saying!

Miriam's

 

 

Janice's

 

 

Fran's

 

 

 

Maura's (all variations on this)

 

Enjoying the wonders of winter, while looking for that invincible summer! Thanks for playing ladies!