tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55087335287112410012012-02-02T10:42:40.836-05:00Contemporary Jewelry crafted from Broken China by Laura Beth Love <br> ...A blog about creative ideas in crafts, and upcycled, innovative re-purposed artDishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.comBlogger861100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-56265666540339466672012-02-02T08:34:00.000-05:002012-02-02T09:00:28.392-05:00

Celebrate your love for music by upcycling old sheet music into unique one of a kind creations and home decor. Where can you find old sheet music? Garage sales and flea markets are good places to start, or if you prefer, print your own sheet music to use in crafts (see the last links at the end of this post for a few free printables.)  (PS. You can substitute old book pages for sheet music

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-50096308265093732502012-02-01T08:21:00.001-05:002012-02-01T08:29:02.025-05:00

Check out these interesting new uses for old and recalled baby cribs.  Crib spring DIY From crib to play table DIY Victorian crib repurposed to a settee from Country Living Garden trellis From old crib to new bench Chalkboard easel DIY instructions Awesome chair! I love that they preserved the vintage graphics! Crib bench

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-78714046602172991682012-01-31T08:59:00.001-05:002012-01-31T09:03:50.549-05:00

Once the staple of library organization, these old card catalogs have been given new life as beautiful and unique home and office furniture.  Check out these literary treasures! New York public library 1923 Before: Abandoned Reclaimed: Beautiful Beautifully restored As a dining room or kitchen buffet Display What a fabulous piece!  I

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A palette of tangerine to orange is the perfect way to energize a Monday morning... Beauty So she did Kitty Poppy Lamp Shells Flaming June by Leighton  Flight Balloons  Meow  Carrot lemonade? Kitchen Pram Eyes Fishing boat  Annoying Orange! Sari worker Bohemian breeze  

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I love the delicate look and vintage feel of mother of pearl buttons. I especially like seeing them used in a way that is different than their intended purpose... Vintage 10 cents Mona Lisa in buttons Monogrammed pillow Memory jug Mother of pearl flower button bobby pins Mother of pearl flower button bobby pins Button star by

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-20477379127332732652012-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:002012-01-28T10:13:03.803-05:00

What do you do with your old photo slides after you convert their images to digital media? Do you store them in the attic? Throw them away? Check out some of these creative projects made with old slides and maybe you will be inspired to create your own! Front door by Armin Blasbichler Detail of front door by Armin Blasbichler Slide table lamps Slide

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-52860994013148658162012-01-27T12:29:00.000-05:002012-01-27T12:29:26.334-05:00

be optimistic In my last post (Tips For New Etsy Sellers: Part One, The Basics) I discussed some of the qualities of a successful Etsy shop including item titles, descriptions, photos, customer service, return policies, the importance of having a unique product and the importance of maintaining an ample inventory in your shop. Now let's talk about some of the other things that can help you

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Success Running an Etsy shop is serious business. It can be rewarding and fun, but first and foremost it is a business and needs to be handled as such. If you have visited the forums on Etsy, no doubt you have read more than one post where a seller complains that their sales are slow or nonexistent, or that no one is visiting their shop, or that they are ready to throw in the towel (and so

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-13822919875104567092012-01-25T08:05:00.000-05:002012-01-25T09:12:47.784-05:00

Color Palette: Deep Purple, Blackberry, and AuberginePurple haze, all in my brain! Plum purple burst guitar from Daisyrock Violet-backed Starling VW Bowls Ornaments Shutters Mushrooms Door Love Potion... Stained glass Livingroom Dark Flowers Pretty bird Paint wall one color to

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-19734795432640070642012-01-24T07:23:00.000-05:002012-01-31T13:19:00.069-05:00

Old fence, rusty garden gate...what can these things add to your interior decor? Whether kept partially recognizable in their original form or repurposed into something altogether new, these simple architectural elements from your garden can add a touch of interest when used in ways that are different then what you would expect.  An old iron headboard serves as a garden gate

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-14132290016898693422012-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:002012-01-23T08:20:14.548-05:00

Sometimes great beauty can be found in a small simple household object, such as button. Some of the most beautiful buttons are Bohemian Czech glass buttons, which are made in Prague. A few factories still produce newer versions of these vintage beauties, using the same traditional molds, tools and methods that their ancestors did.    Czech glass buttons made into beautiful jewelry

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-45658832114791555922012-01-22T09:24:00.000-05:002012-01-22T09:24:29.689-05:00

Use vintage wooden thread spools to create unique projects perfect for the textile enthusiast. Spools + rubber stamps = miniature art   photo via purpleandscarlet.com Ornament    from Sugarlumpstudios spool table by sticksandbricks spool table by sticksandbricks wooden spool cork board DIY instructions from thesillypearl Necklace by WoodenNicklesJewelry via

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Don't throw that rickety old chair away just yet. Check out these unique ideas for reusing old chairs and maybe you'll be inspired to create your own upcycled chair masterpiece! Chairs upcycled into benches by 31andchange (Click here for similar DIY project instructions) Wall art via Anthropologie Guitar stand made from an old chair by Jon_in_BK via lumberjocks

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-22198961585791572212012-01-20T08:20:00.001-05:002012-01-21T13:58:43.638-05:00

I've always loved the look of vintage wood shutters on a home, they have such a quaint, old world feel.  Now you can take that look and move it from outside, to inside your home by upcycling old shutters into new home decor.  Check out these creative new looks gleaned from old salvaged shutters. Rustic shutter cabinet Upcycled shutter mail organizer ...or hang

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-36669633120020920472012-01-19T09:37:00.001-05:002012-01-19T09:37:23.709-05:00

Shades of teal Double Crested Cormorant  photo by Amy Marques Hanging the stars Owl Bedroom The sky is falling! photo by Igor Siwanowicz Pintuck floor pillow Butterfly eyes Display Hummingbird Ocean Bridge  by Raoul Pop Hyacinth Macaw Twinkle by EyePoetryPhotography via etsy

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-33800439175457423482012-01-18T09:41:00.000-05:002012-01-18T09:53:59.278-05:00

What other great way to add a touch of international flair or schoolroom nostalgia to your home or office space than with an upcycled globe? In their original form, globes offer unique artwork, color, and  pattern. Over the years, when country and name places change,  globes are then updated and older versions are discarded.  Whether partially preserved or completely refinished with a new

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-41867287775286897632012-01-17T19:35:00.001-05:002012-01-17T19:35:29.071-05:00

Givenchy Gothic vaulted ceiling via JCNixonPhoto Celebration cake citron Santa Fe door by hartnm1 garden roses Waterhouse dress via etsy lush spiral staircase shells good day print from wickedpaper on etsy Haute as Hello from Essie via ShortNChic cafe necklace

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-43114687727211551532012-01-16T14:52:00.000-05:002012-01-27T18:13:36.977-05:00

If you've ever had a subscription to National Geographic magazine you'll know exactly what I am talking about... map overload!  But stop right there. Don't you dare throw away those old maps and atlases. Instead, why not give them a new purpose by upcycling them into something new and unique, like one of the creative examples shown here. letter press on atlas page via amyriceart on

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-47729925437446082242012-01-14T15:50:00.003-05:002012-01-16T09:43:31.999-05:00

I love it when someone finds an artistic and creative new use for something that most folks would consider trash, such as a used, burned out incandescent light bulb.  Believe it or not, once you remove the metal part, the glass bulb actually becomes stronger because you have removed the vacuum pressure. Check out these bright ideas and maybe you too will have  a light bulb moment! 

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-21081400381146300302012-01-14T11:59:00.000-05:002012-01-16T09:43:49.237-05:00

NewspaperWood   via Via5 Wow. NewspaperWood. That's wood made from recycled newspapers. Gotta tell ya, when I first saw this, the first thing that came into my head were the Smencils that my seven and nine year old daughters covet (for those who don't know, Smencils are "gourmet scented" pencils made from recycled newspaper that come in scents such as Root Beer, Orange, etc., and are

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-46546421252146344352012-01-13T07:00:00.000-05:002012-01-13T07:02:31.418-05:00

Blue and yellow make a great combination, reminiscent of   summer days at the beach, sunsets, lemon meringue pie...you get the picture! Aim to please! Mmmmm    Ashton Court, Bristol. Photo by Archidave Felt wreath Degas A timeless American Classic Sunny yellow curtains help brighten room Peony by ashmae on etsy Vintage kitchen Colors

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-91510768669708195242012-01-12T07:05:00.001-05:002012-01-16T09:44:51.950-05:00

Salvaging old windows and upcycling them into something new for your home is easier than you might think. Take a look at some of these creative twists on salvaged windows. This, I LOVE.  from Oddityink on etsy  One great way to upcycle an old window is to put something behind the glass such as photos or scrapbook paper. Simply cut your paper to fit the glass windows and adhere on

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-17434651926339998072012-01-11T07:15:00.000-05:002012-01-24T16:00:01.045-05:00

For years, rulers and yardsticks were given out by businesses as token gifts to customers. Printed with vintage advertising, these common household objects have been given new life in many artistic projects.  Let me know if you think they measure up! Yardstick coat rackHere's a how-to from Better Homes & Gardens A unique yardstick buffet Ruler bangle via jacqvon on etsy

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-21128103590168178782012-01-10T07:00:00.000-05:002012-01-20T14:37:09.795-05:00

Used in the shipping industry, wood pallets are typically a low end commodity. Usually, pallets will get reused a few times and then they will either be scrapped as trash or used as firewood.  Most often made from inexpensive junk species of lumber (whatever is most widely available), wood pallets are the perfect candidate for upcycling. Check out these creative examples of upcycled

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-58775954188185078152012-01-08T17:11:00.003-05:002012-01-09T09:34:04.435-05:00

I love the dreamy, ethereal feel of lavender with turquoise... it's heavenly! legs Bluebirds                              latch sky blue apples lovely bloom clouds dreamy roses creamer warm knob dragonfly                                             together

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-82679570587173411472012-01-08T12:35:00.001-05:002012-02-01T09:12:30.365-05:00

If you haven't already noticed, there's something about salvaging that really excites me!  Check out these new takes on old doors! Get this look with decoupage and old wallpaper. What a beautiful accent piece! I LOVE this look! Simply remove the newer door and replace with an old, salvaged one!  This is a basement door. via Down to Earth Style This unique

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-21152674197340079482012-01-07T12:33:00.001-05:002012-01-21T18:37:53.365-05:00

Think chalkboards are only for school rooms? Think again! Chalkboard paint, a special type of paint available at craft and home improvement stores, dries to a wonderful chalkboard finish and is a great way to add personal flair throughout your home. Take a look at the photos below and imagine the possibilities!  The most awesome kitchen wall EVER (wall by lovelace interior design)

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-88029947118854698952012-01-05T10:42:00.000-05:002012-01-16T09:46:48.367-05:00

a bed (be sure to remove the lid!) take a seat!  also from Recreate...put up your feet! suitcase wall it's a lamp! ...or an upright bass suitcase dressers sewing box (how to) by Mira Marnie stereo custom gifts night stand  occasional table

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-15035266929953351982012-01-04T14:23:00.001-05:002012-01-04T14:24:27.921-05:00

This order was created for a customer who wanted matching necklaces made for herself and her mother.  The customer asked me if I had any black and white patterned china and I sent her the photo below.  This is vintage Wedgwood English transferware in a floral motif.  The customer loved the choice of china and so it began! I drew out a variety of design shapes onto the

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-32088061588733438142012-01-03T12:30:00.000-05:002012-01-03T12:30:45.573-05:00

winter white palette rivet jacket wrapping glow cozy creamy kitchen cream puff (recipe) bejeweled comfy sweet posh it's all in the details beaded pearl bracelet can you see the beauty? age=enchantment knit

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-4439800749335878132012-01-01T12:22:00.000-05:002012-01-01T12:22:14.298-05:00

Happy New Year! - Laura

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-21586892781023908442011-12-31T11:21:00.002-05:002011-12-31T11:21:42.412-05:00

by H. Jackson Brown Jr.

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-1600055365586377322011-12-29T10:55:00.000-05:002012-01-19T11:20:46.648-05:00

mobile sheet music rose blackbird fly folded pages i carry your heart i carry your heart with me(i carry it inmy heart)i am never without it(anywherei go you go,my dear;and whatever is doneby only me is your doing,my darling)                                                      i fearno fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i wantno world

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-38064987299030639572011-12-25T22:45:00.001-05:002012-01-27T10:11:49.082-05:00

Via New York Magazine Via Sundance Via Nordstrom Via Macy's gold nails Via nailfood Via Onthehighstreet Via Nordstrom Via Macy's May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you're wonderful, and don't forget to make some

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-5770148932166556002011-12-25T21:47:00.001-05:002011-12-25T21:47:48.385-05:00

In just a few short days as we ring in the new year! Millions of people will be vowing to make some type of positive change in their lives as the clock strikes midnight. As this year comes to a close, take a look back at what some of the top resolutions were for 2011.

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-70212100850196288372011-12-23T08:24:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:34:01.170-05:00

What a unique way to create a holiday glow! I was delighted to come across this unique winter craft created by SaltTree- simply made with a jar, miniature street light found at a dollar store (that really lights up!), glue, white glitter, and fake snow.  I think these would make special holiday night lights or look great on a Christmas mantle, don't you? instructions from 

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-77922209924830533802011-12-21T10:32:00.002-05:002012-01-16T09:39:43.042-05:00

What a great way to show off those pretty spice and tea containers!I've been saving a few beautiful paprika tins (I'm Ukrainian - we go through paprika like you would not believe) figuring that one day I would do something creative with them...now I know! The best part of this project is that all you need are the tins and some strong magnets - no glue required. Just put the magnet

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-51872400367549009822011-12-20T21:14:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:34:45.831-05:00

I'd been looking for variations on this simple recipe and came across this version  from Sharnel at My Life My Loves. Click here for her recipe. They are so pretty!

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-54865663893785904862011-12-19T19:54:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:35:15.621-05:00

Be inspired by this collection of beautiful gingerbread houses Mini Gingerbread Tea House Instructions from Not Martha Basic Gingerbread recipe from Martha Stewart Tips for decorating with Royal Icing from King Arthur Flour Snow Swept Cottage How-To from Martha Stewart Beautiful pink house (above & below) by With Love & Confection

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-1133333204719411512011-12-18T11:26:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:36:05.493-05:00

Cranberry Brie Bitesfrom Yummy Mummy  who reminds us, "don't forget, we eat with our eyes first" Pinecone Cheeseballfrom My Paper Crane Baked Parmasean Tomatoesfrom Eating Well Prosciutto & Fillo Wrapped Asparagusfrom Paula Deen A favorite of my family, this recipe always gets rave reviews,  and is my 9 year old daughter's most requested recipe! Marinated Antipasto Kabobsfrom

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-32006984345396668492011-12-13T12:41:00.043-05:002011-12-23T12:36:39.738-05:00

Check out this collection of unique and creative holiday candy and dessert recipes. These sweet holiday treats are sure to make an impression on your Christmas table....they are also great to make as gifts for loved ones! Peppermint Bark - the secret to the snowflake shape? Silicone molds. instructions Holiday Pretzel Treats - simple to make, only three ingredients:M&M's, pretzles, and

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-31869509024614531772011-12-12T22:12:00.022-05:002011-12-13T08:36:53.335-05:00

Beauty & GraceStar tags by folksy.comNorth pole pillowPhoto by la fattinafrom TypeEverythingReindeer tags found hereChristmas Oranges from HereSign by Primitives by Kathy found hereReindeer in Luostof, FinlandCandy cane centerpiece How toSimply statedWhen less is more

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Check out this collection of unique & unusual Christmas trees and be inspired!From Wood & Wool StoolChristmas ornaments Shelf tree by Swiss MissYes, those are Tinker Toys!Ruler tree by My Salvaged Treasures click for how toCostume jewelry Christmas treeSheet music tree from Twigg click for how-toNo tree! Ornament mobile. Here's how A seaside treeA tree of yesteryear...Just straightening it!

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reindeer?vintage ornament wreatha welcoming front porchbeautiful hanging pine cones - so easy to make - beautiful rolled in glittersnowman by simple joys paperie rose hem tree skirtcozy Christmas cottagevintage silver tray wreathsimple beautyangel wings on chair backs!simple greens and stars say so muchbeautifulcreate a box of candles for a holiday glowpillows from Pottery Barnsweet sign by

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-41548785137459726592011-12-10T08:57:00.002-05:002011-12-10T08:58:00.295-05:00

Check out this treasury I created of vibrant red gifts for the holidays!

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-7170531126986724742011-12-05T11:11:00.007-05:002011-12-05T11:26:53.178-05:00

Check out these treasuries I created. Each is a themed collection of unique items, only available on Etsy. What a great way to shop for the holidays! Enjoy!

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-22790920915789591902011-11-02T13:41:00.016-04:002011-11-02T14:20:47.561-04:00

One of my favorite china patterns to work with is Johnson Bros Old Britain Castles (this was also the china pattern of the necklace I made that was featured in Country Living magazine last month.) Here are a few favorite jewelry pieces that I have created from this classic pattern.Pin brooch with crystals and glass pearlsTeacup and saucerNecklace pendantMatching necklaces...great for sisters,

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-3246184973321462212011-09-14T09:48:00.009-04:002011-09-14T10:01:48.293-04:00

I am thrilled to announce that one of my necklaces is featured in the October 2011 issue of Country Living Magazine! Be sure to check it out! "Fresh Picks: Statement Jewelry" page 32October 2011 Country Living magazine coverCountry Living magazine chose to feature this piece, which I created from a broken antique plate.Page 32, Fresh Picks: Statement Jewelry

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-77061128172468324632011-04-17T19:25:00.014-04:002012-01-16T09:41:52.140-05:00

I made these pysanky last year HOW TO MAKE PYSANKY (Ukrainian Easter Eggs) PART ONE: HOW THEY ARE MADE I was taught how to make pysanky by my father John, who was a first generation Ukrainian-American. My grandparents were from the Carpathian Mountain region of Lviv, Ukraine. Designs on the eggs are fundamentally traditional, passed down generation to generation, and differences in

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-15602522209595012222011-04-13T12:11:00.018-04:002012-01-16T09:42:11.947-05:00

Vintage Key Necklace: Vertically Hung Key Vintage Key Necklace: Horizontally Hung Key In my last blog post I discussed my basic design process for working with a unique focal element, in this case, some fantastic vintage & antique keys that I came across at a flea market last summer. I also discussed the basics of choosing complimentary materials such as beads, and the “

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-4930841265801183262011-02-24T23:12:00.008-05:002012-01-16T09:42:28.241-05:00

The keys I found at Blue Mountain Flea Market...waiting to be made into something beautiful MY DESIGN PROCESS FOR WORKING WITH UNIQUE ELEMENTS: VINTAGE KEYS(Part 1: Designing with Unique Elements) It’s been a while since I’ve updated my blog so I thought I’d share with you what I did with the vintage keys that I found this past summer at the Blue Mountain flea market (Saylorsburg,

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-53992949504421644272011-02-07T09:09:00.007-05:002011-02-07T16:58:27.529-05:00

T-shirt by greengoat can be found hereMy Trend Forecast for 2011…Nature in Handcrafts I think we can all agree at this point that the some of the biggest theme trends we saw in jewelry and handcrafts in general for 2010 were the appearances of owls, and then later, foxes. (I like to believe, or at least tell myself, the latter was due to the popularity of the ’09 November release of Fantastic

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-8347365877288806842011-01-26T11:10:00.006-05:002011-01-26T11:18:17.514-05:00

The DanceWilliam Carlos Williamswhen the snow falls the flakes spin upon the long axisthat concerns them mostly intimatelytwo and two to make a dancethe mind dances with itself, taking you by the hand, your lover follows there are always two,yourself and the other, the point of your shoe setting the pace, if you break away and run the dance is overBreathlessly you will take another partner better

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-55122189661100498542010-10-26T10:01:00.010-04:002010-10-26T21:01:24.579-04:00

Recycling, Repurposing, Upcycling – what’s the difference? …and what exactly is Upcycling? We all know what recycling is. A plastic bag is used to carry home groceries then is later reused by the owner who uses the bag a second or third time, perhaps to again carry groceries or store items. The bag has been recycled by its owner. The bag is being reused but the value of the bag remains the same

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-22368656306997617142010-10-20T09:00:00.051-04:002012-01-16T09:42:45.912-05:00

These tags make great personal touches for gifts, or, if you’re a crafty, use them in altered art and scrapbooking projects. If you sell your work, use these as jewelry cards or hang tags for your handcrafted items, as I have done above. Supplies needed:Manila hang tags –available at office supply stores, or if you prefer you can cut your own from cardstock. I prefer to use the purchased

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-12747150377283640782010-09-22T13:36:00.010-04:002010-09-22T13:51:12.864-04:00

It’s fall now, but to me, it isn’t really autumn until the first frosty morning, when the floor boards are like ice to my bare feet and a glaze of white frost tips each blade of grass on the yard. Below is my personal favorite autumn poem, A Vagabond Song, by William Bliss Carman. It's so beautifully visual. A Vagabond Song THERE is something in the autumn that is native to my

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-16089898835566240652010-09-13T16:25:00.020-04:002012-01-07T14:05:47.852-05:00

Pendant necklace made from vintage Halloween postcard I love the change in season from summer to fall. It’s early September and already our local grocery store has Halloween candy on display! Is it a bit too early for that? Maybe, but the lure of Halloween is one that I’ve always found charming. I’m especially fond of vintage Halloween items. Decorations, masks, costumes and

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-30663928037541019652010-09-10T11:33:00.035-04:002010-09-23T08:12:13.409-04:00

Imagine my thrill when I was contacted yesterday by Etsy Admin to let me know that my jewelry and my Etsy shop were going to be featured in Kaboodle's Celebrity Style Watch!The article, Etsy Inside Scoop: How to Snag Celeb Style was a collaboration between Etsy and Kaboodle, and spotlights celebrities seen wearing items made by Etsy artists.In the article, True Blood actor Tanya Wright is shown

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-65074630590429518202010-09-10T08:18:00.014-04:002010-09-10T08:59:48.723-04:00

I'm happy to share that I'm in the October 2010 issue of The Crafts Report Magazine!This is especially exciting for me as not only have I been a reader and avid fan of the The Crafts Report for years, but because this is the definitive journal for high end handcrafted art. A while back I was interviewed for an article on using social media to market your artwork. The piece is entitled Expand and

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-2152862796542317592010-08-28T15:48:00.019-04:002010-08-28T21:11:00.401-04:00

photo by Kevin BaumanI recently came across Kevin Bauman’s 100 Abandoned Houses website, which is a collection of his photographs of abandoned homes throughout the Detroit area.photo by Kevin BaumanThere is something mesmerizing about these old, abandoned homes. One can only wonder about their history and past inhabitants. I find some of the homes eerily inviting. I’m a curious kind of chick, and

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-71324347346679663312010-08-14T09:44:00.134-04:002012-01-07T14:06:01.103-05:00

Pendant approx. 1" "I once had a sparrow alight upon my shoulder for a moment, while I was hoeing in a village garden, and I felt that I was more distinguished by that circumstance that I should have been by any epaulet I could have worn." -Henry David Thoreau American china with bird motif Bluebird China “Bluebird china enjoyed a brief but spectacular history

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-80838627579678045922010-08-11T10:10:00.030-04:002010-08-18T20:38:24.332-04:00

Musikfest 2010 Bethlehem PANancy Wilson of HeartIt’s festival week here in the Lehigh Valley PA with Bethlehem’s Musikfest! This ten day festival runs August 6th through the 15th, and boasts over 300 performers! During Musikfest the streets of downtown Bethlehem are closed and 14 stages host a huge range of local to nationally known musical performers.Musikfest is presented by ArtsQuest, a

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-43978795314486644282010-08-04T16:42:00.035-04:002010-08-05T14:05:38.609-04:00

Imagine my thrill when I was gifted with this fancy-schmancy sandblasted Fiestaware plate from a Homer Laughlin Fiesta Collector’s Association! It's perfect!Is this not the cutest thing ever? I had already been making my jewelry from broken plates and pottery for quite a few years when one day I was approached by a Fiesta collector to enter a contest in which artists create something from

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-63431798535481670832010-08-02T14:35:00.027-04:002012-01-17T15:19:18.096-05:00

MOSAIC I will bring my hammer down on you hardAnd for that brief second close my eyes(believe me, this hurts me more than you…)All of your beauty – Shattered with one swift swingAnd cleaning up the pieces – A messy job.But I must admit – I thought of you,In that particular, sentimental way before I did you in Oh, the beautiful company you’ve held,The admiring eyes,The groping hands once

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-27759235004595927592010-07-31T13:05:00.039-04:002012-01-07T14:05:15.956-05:00

How to Make Domino Jewelry Level: Beginner/Easy Vintage wood dominoes (click to learn about the history of dominoes) Jewelry made from recycled materials is earth-friendly and all the rage. The exciting part about making jewelry from recycled materials is that the supplies you need are most likely already right in your own home! One type of jewelry that is super-stylish

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-37536295516601323962010-07-26T20:56:00.014-04:002010-07-27T13:21:52.436-04:00

This sweet little orphaned bird was once one of a pair of small salt shakers. Now he’s got a brand new home - among some shards of history...Built upon a vintage wooden bowl, this mosaic nest of sorts tells a colorful story of potteries long closed and abandoned. The majority of the pottery used for this piece was collected by my uncle, hand-picked at low tide from the banks of the Thames River

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-1964466447460670592010-07-18T17:57:00.057-04:002011-06-05T21:17:28.523-04:00

My summer wouldn’t be complete without a few visits to the Blue Ridge Flea Market in Saylorsburg, PA. This is one of my very favorite flea markets and one the best places in the Pocono area to shop for antiques and vintage treasures. It’s about a thirty minute drive from my home, so I consider myself one lucky chick! Today the temperature was in the 90’s but that wasn’t going to hold me back. It

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-73606788709027989912010-07-17T19:36:00.015-04:002010-07-17T20:58:12.112-04:00

I just LOVE vintage advertisements. I especially love vintage ads featuring china or flatware! I always find myself squinting at the ads I come across, trying to make out the china pattern or silver pattern, wondering if it’s one I have in stock for my jewelry making. I think on two occasions I’ve found ads for patterns that were the same as or very similar to dishes that I had in stock…One was a

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-27708468199951501572010-07-15T15:34:00.008-04:002010-07-17T19:30:35.053-04:00

I squeezed an hour out of my busy morning to swing by one of my favorite local thrifts and it was a good thing I did...I found this awesome set of ornate, antique birth record spoons - and for only a few bucks! Each is hand-engraved with a child's name and birth date. I feel a bit sad that they are no longer with the family of the original owners and landed up for sale in a thrift shop - but

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-13636558275630744022010-07-08T13:06:00.014-04:002010-07-16T21:38:53.735-04:00

I have a great love for these old advertising calendar plates...they seem to be one of those things that combine everything that I love in one package: it's a plate, it's old, it's got a beautiful floral transferware design on it...but most especially, it marks a certain point in time. In this case, 1909.Let's see...in 1909 a newspaper cost 1 cent, coffee was 20 cents a pound, (tea was $1 for 2

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-61088714504462719092010-07-03T16:50:00.011-04:002010-07-03T18:42:12.068-04:00

Just how many things can you do with old spoons? I love these ornate orphaned spoons who've long lost their matching mates. Who wants to lay around in some old silverware drawer anyhow? Being turned into an extremely cool bracelet is much more fun!

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-75700920070907631822010-05-29T17:32:00.011-04:002012-01-07T14:06:20.911-05:00

I'll admit it, I have a hard time throwing pretty things away, even if it is something that is considered "scrap." After making a spoon bracelet out of a pair of orphaned antique silver plated spoons I found myself left with the cut off bowl-ends of the spoons - and they had such a pretty filigree design on the neck (the thin part of the spoon that connects the handle to the bowl) that I just had

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-41742053147440989262010-05-22T14:07:00.000-04:002010-05-22T14:41:48.515-04:00

Which do you prefer? I recently posted this question on my Facebook page. So far, silver is in the lead... When I first began making jewelry from broken china (and we're talking nearly 20 years now - yikes!) I would occasionally dabble with the black/vintage/antiqued finishes, but for some reason I always seemed to come back to silver. Silver is traditional, it's easy to wear, it's shiny....as

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-29172848706510492512010-05-21T08:17:00.005-04:002010-05-23T18:42:14.192-04:00

Pin Brooch crafted from vintage English scenic transferware, antique silver finishI'm always happy to wake up to find that a kind artist has featured my work in their treasury. I found the colors of this one to be quite attractive!http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bf617ddafe66d9169686bdb/sunset-over-butterfly-gardensUpdate: Happy to find this treasury on the front page of Etsy on 5/22/10!

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-43694195163401010852010-05-20T08:53:00.000-04:002010-05-20T08:58:22.414-04:00

I was thrilled to find my items included in five different Etsy treasuries last week, and even more thrilled to find that one of the treasuries was featured on Etsy's front page...of course I'm never home when these things happen, but got a capture of the screen shot :-)

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-17937263866032397312010-05-14T15:42:00.000-04:002010-05-14T16:13:25.659-04:00

So glad to be back to my little blog and working again - this winter I made like a bear and hibernated most of the season...but am back with lots of new pretty things and a refreshed Etsy store with tons of new stock! (Check it out below!)http://www.etsy.com/shop/dishfunctionldesignsNote the new Etsy store name - missing the letter "a" in Dishfunctional - but alas, Etsy only allows so many

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-74803566836091113622009-05-31T10:59:00.000-04:002009-12-07T22:46:21.839-05:00

This is my first attempt at wire wrapping - I thought it turned out pretty well! All sterling silver wire with a coin pearl center and two freshwater pearl dangles. I oxidized the silver to give it an antique finish. Measures approx. 1" wide and 1 & 3/4" tall.

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-90082322784766702402009-04-14T10:01:00.000-04:002009-04-14T10:11:38.464-04:00

My father first taught me the craft of making pysanka - Ukrainian Easter eggs - when I was very young. Over the years and with lots of practice, I think I've finally got to the point where they are presentable! I made the eggs in this photo with regular extra large chicken eggs. I work on four or five eggs at a time, each being in a different stage of completion. The eggs are created with a

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-30111688375817201762009-03-26T09:31:00.000-04:002009-05-02T23:37:17.195-04:00

artwork and photo copyright 2009 I'm quite excited to offer a new Limited Edition Art Jewelry category on my website, which has been a long time coming. This category encompasses those one of a kind creations that don't quite fit in any of my other categories and in a nutshell can be described as a little bit of this and a little bit of that! Here is where you will find unique and unusual

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-37240952641955892152009-03-06T16:59:00.000-05:002009-05-02T23:37:50.632-04:00

If you are looking for a recycled or green gift, be sure to check out Great Green Goods. I was thrilled to recently have my broken china jewelry featured by them on their site, which features eco-friendly products that are made by creative minds with recycled materials. You can read their review of my jewelry here: Dishfunctional Designs - Makes you want to Break your PlatesFrom Pennsylvania

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-25481081162770300632009-03-03T21:19:00.000-05:002009-05-02T23:38:15.071-04:00

Boy do I have lots of sweet new goodies for spring! This winter I took some time away from my regular line of broken china jewelry to create some exciting new designs with some fabulous vintage materials...I dove into my collection of vintage photos, reproduced some of them, then had a ball adding some fun text to them and incorporating them into some fresh new designs. (I knew I was collecting

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-41076159844332322412009-03-02T17:29:00.000-05:002009-05-02T23:38:32.577-04:00

I was hoping for some spring-like weather come March, but in lieu of sunshine a full-blown snow day will always suffice! There's nothing like a blizzardy day to stir up my creative juices. Seeing that going outside was not an option, I opted to work on some new, (and kinda silly) designs for spring. I love the way this necklace turned out! What a vixen! ~ This was made from a vintage photo that I

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-5575152809326743402009-02-23T13:50:00.000-05:002009-05-02T23:39:59.042-04:00

Detail of Vintage Lace Pendants all arwork & images copyright 2009 Thank goodness springtime is right around the corner! The change of seasons always seems to offer just the right gentle push I need to leave behind the old and begin some new projects. I look forward to the refreshing & soft palette of spring - and to the longer days it affords! I created these pendants with pieces of antique

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-66666537886430346632009-02-17T19:23:00.000-05:002009-05-02T23:40:18.036-04:00

What better way to celebrate Presidents Day than with this dashing vintage photo pendant of Abraham Lincoln? artwork & image copyright 2009

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-37733560030529535402009-02-14T15:25:00.001-05:002009-05-02T23:40:43.562-04:00

If ever there was a day for chocolate and goodies, today's that day! Today we celebrate love ~ some with kisses and hugs, others with cards and candy. What's not to love about the heart itself? Here are some mosaic hearts I designed and created using shards of vintage broken china and vintage images. Like each one of us, these mosaic hearts each have their own unique personalities. Happy

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5508733528711241001.post-37626003237780986242009-02-11T09:09:00.000-05:002009-02-11T09:23:29.208-05:00

What fun it's been this week at our house, making Valentine's Day boxes with my daughters. Finding just the right shoe box and then gathering the pretty papers, ribbons and glitter (and paper doilies of course!) to help them create their masterpieces. I'll admit it, I think my excitement matched theirs when the note was brought home from school with instructions for this project! Children are

Dishfunctional Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480311392497475468noreply@blogger.com0