freshlyblended

The New Me

2012-01-30T14:56:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,It has been a while since I've last updated. I've been knee deep in mommyhood and loving every minute of it. Along the way I did feel a bit disconnected from blogland so I've decided to reinvent freshlyblended, it's still me but more about me and my design side of things. No more ads, reviews, sponsors...just me in the raw. For six years on freshlyblended, I've been looking at other peoples work and getting inspired by it, this time I'm putting myself out there in hopes to inspire. My new space is more of a pintrest type of layout where i'm posting about my work in the publishing industry with a few tidbits of personal work and random inspiration spread throughout. This is a fresh new start for me so I hope my friends and regular readers will stay connected...I've miss you all so very much. see you there!

Sad Announcement

2011-11-28T12:03:00.000-05:00

Hi friends,
I realize I've been lacking in posts over here on FB. This time in my life has been completely wrapped up in mommyhood and Design work, so I had to make that painstaking decision to let something go for a while and unfortunately it's my blog which I've been running since 2005. I'm not getting rid of it entirely for hopes that some day I'll get back into it again. I'm leaving you with what has inspired me for over 5 years in hopes that It will continue to inspire you in the future, and become a constant reminder for me that it's "OKAY" to start a new chapter in my life and still be inspired by beautiful design.

I'm going to play a new roll in the blog world and become the "reader" so I can still be involved but without as much pressure, so anytime you find a great place for design inspiration, please leave a comment here so we can all follow along as our niche evolves. You will still see me around on twitter, facebook, linked in designrelated, etc... as I further my career within the publishing industry and please feel free to say "hi" every once in a while, I always love hearing how my friends are doing, especially the ones I can't see everyday.

So I leave you with hopes of a great new chapter ahead of me and wishing you all the same. Remember to always stay inspired weather it be by design, food, nature, family and friends....it's what keeps us going as creative minds.

Until we meet again, xo
Nicole

Announcing the 6th Annual Holiday Ornament Swap

2011-10-26T10:47:00.001-04:00

Hi friends,
Even though I'm taking a blogging break, I've found someone really great to host this years Holiday Ornament Swap. Meet the very talented Alisa Bobzien. She along with many others were nervous that since my announcement we wouldn't have another swap. After getting a lovely email from her and many others about how much this has become a staple to many of your holiday traditions, I decided that the Swap must go on. Alisa has taken the steps in setting up the swap via swap-bot and is ready to be your host this year. I'm glad this can still happen even though I won't be around and who knows maybe I'll be back next year. So go on over to Alisa's great blog and sign up today!
happy holidays to you all and I hope to see many wonderful creations this year.

Holiday ornament swap

2011-10-21T09:25:00.001-04:00

I've been receiving a lot of concerns that there may not be a holiday ornament swap this year. I have someone who I'm passing the torch to this year and when she is all ready to launch this years swap, I will post the info here for you. Unfortunately I will not be participating this year but I feel really confident that it is in good hands. More info coming soon.

retro-autumn-vintage-navajo-chic

2011-09-19T09:14:00.001-04:00

a season inspired by navajo folk art...i'm so inspired by the graphic line work and the bold samples of color. These prints are new at the howkapow shop. hope to see much more of this style popping up here and there.

cardboard cat houses

2011-08-17T15:54:00.000-04:00

Check out Boutique Cascades fantastic and very stylish cardboard cat houses made by two young industrial designers at loyal lux. Unfortunately I couldn't get puppy-kitty into the teepee at our house but we got my friends cat, Stosh in the canadian chalet and he loved it! He's a big boy but there was plenty of room for him to get cozy.

here is what puppy-kitty would of looked like in the teepee had she been a little bit braver!

I just had to embed this totally cute kitty video for you!

also for a short time Freshlyblended will give the first 10 customers a 25% discount on your very own teepee. just use this code at check out: FRESHLYB. it ends september 30th so hurry up!

shape escape

2011-08-16T15:01:00.001-04:00

Great geometric cushions from Howkapow.

book reviews

2011-08-04T09:06:00.001-04:00

I have two great books to share with you today. Each are very different but both are esthetically pleasing. About a Village is a photographic study by acclaimed fashion photographer Eamonn J. McCabe of a real English village called Firle. This photo journal is packed with amazing real life experiences made in this quiet little place, it really makes you want to drop everything and seek out a much more simpler lifestyle with loads of color and quirkiness.

I love artist Nigel Peake and I'm very ecstatic that he now has a compendium of some of his beautiful works called In the Wilds. His watercolors and line drawings take on such an organic feel and to have them in a book all together is wonderful to flip through. This book is a personal diary of Nigel's relationship with the land around him, breaking it down one layer at a time. This is definitely one that will stay out on the coffee table.

Grain

2011-07-26T11:12:00.001-04:00

Grain was founded in 2007 by a group of RISD graduates, but it’s now based on Bainbridge Island in Washington. Its mission is simple: to create beautiful and sustainable designs and support artisans everywhere. They have some really innovative jewelry and wares....

"Spool" modular stacking system. make anything from screens to tables

Wall mounted mirror with textile wrapped edges.

A Lofty Installation

2011-07-20T12:06:00.003-04:00

By Hey Studio in Barcelona.

Free owl love

2011-07-18T09:48:00.000-04:00

I've been working on a little series of owls lately and I wanted to share some owl love with you with these two desktop wallpapers I made from some of the owls in my series. Best part is that they are FREE! click the link to get to the originals. purple owl / strawberry owl. Enjoy!

darling clementine :: scandinavian woodlands

2011-07-06T10:30:00.000-04:00

I'm addicted to Darling Clementine. Check out their amazing new woodland collection. I love how they took traditional scandinavian folk art and splashed on some modern color.

Dana Tanamachi :: by hand with chalk

2011-06-30T10:44:00.000-04:00

I'm totally blown away buy the skill and discipline of Dana Tanamachi. I used to do huge chalk murals on the streets at festivals and I know how tedious it can be but I can only imagine how much more steady you would have to be to do it all in typography!

Summertime Art

2011-06-22T10:04:00.000-04:00

Great and refreshing art from Slide sideways to celebrate the sunshine with!

wearable stationery :: egg press

2011-06-02T08:26:00.000-04:00

Just when you think you've seen it all.... yes, these are wearable letterpressed cards! make yourself a nice pair of earrings or sport your very own original charm necklace. I love you egg press!

Banquet atelier & workshop

2011-05-31T10:02:00.000-04:00

Love these summery floral prints from Banquet Altelier & Workshop

Shanna's decal awesomeness!

2011-05-17T09:20:00.000-04:00

Yes, "Awesomeness" IS a word in my book! It best describes my dear friend Shanna Murray's new collection of unique decals. This collection also showcases some new chalkboard decals and mirror kits like the beauty you see below. Ask her about her latest custom options too! check out her blog too to find out what she's been up to, she has such a way with words.

A butterfly's view :: Eiji Watanabe

2011-05-10T14:53:00.000-04:00

Artist Eiji Watanabe cut thousands of butterflies one by one out of field guides and delicately pinned them all around the walls surrounding the empty books....stunning statement. (imgs via colossal)

foodie prints

2011-05-05T14:23:00.000-04:00

I'm in love with C.S. Neal's "Synthetic Food" print series.

dahlhaus

2011-05-04T09:55:00.001-04:00

lovely spring inspired ceramics from dalhaus out of Vancouver, Canada.

a little family fun...

2011-05-03T11:54:00.000-04:00

We have had a busy two weeks in the Lecht household. First we welcomed our newest member to the family ( no not another baby!) it's abby a 7 year old Weimaraner whom we rescued from the SPCA. for years I've admired this breed and always said that some day I would have my own and that day has popped up out of the blue! She is a good girl and a great addition! can you find her in the picture?

right after Abby arrived we celebrated Easter. It was great that Zoe could appreciate the fun this year. Being only 2 she didn't understand the whole concept of the "easter bunny" but she loved the idea of getting a basket!

even though it was far from a warm sunny day, we still dressed up and blew bubbles inside...

This week we celebrated Z's 2nd birthday, family came in from New York and Pittsburgh and we had a nice little shin ding complete with a "yo gabba gabba" cake and New York style bagels.

The New Domestic

2011-04-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

Great new organic cotton totes from new shop, The New Domestic.

Spring picks

2011-04-19T12:26:00.000-04:00

Yes, there is snow falling here which has given me the urge to post my favorite spring inspired picks in hopes that the snow will disappear and the sun will come out and warm us up.

Sukan hand stitched pillow :: Wendy Jung hanging planters

Studio Zen hand carved book ends :: French by Design vintage church bench

Moozie Home indoor teepees :: Avril Loreti houndstooth tea towel

Blue Bird Jewelry :: Mr. Yen hand cut feathers

Oh foxy!

2011-04-04T09:13:00.000-04:00

The lovely Jane at Foxy & Winston sent over some of her newest projects. She has been lending her super screen printing talents to some textiles and goodies. I always knew her sweet, simple, clean illustrations would make for perfect textile patterns and here you go, I was right! I love when an artists lends their refined talents to a new medium, I always say that experimentation is the key to good design. I do hope she continues on this new direction and explores more of what she can do with her beautiful work! love you jane!

You can find each of these lovely tea towels at the foxy & winston shop.

And check out some gorgeous wedding stationery that jane custom designed.

jillian tamaki :: a stitch above the rest

2011-03-30T09:41:00.000-04:00

As a book cover designer, it never ceases to amaze me when the brilliant minds at Penguin come up with another unconventional way of creating a gorgeous book cover collection. Meet Jill tamaki, artist/illustrator who was recently commissioned by penguin to design three great classic title covers completely embroidered. such a spectacular outcome.

claudia pearson tea towels

2011-03-29T09:25:00.001-04:00

Super cute spring edition to claudia's already fabulous designs.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/claudiagpearson

springing back

2011-03-28T15:16:00.000-04:00

hi all. It's good to be back in the loop. I took some time off to fully submerge myself in motherhood which I haven't been able to do since Z was born. I realized that she will be 2 years old already next month and so I wanted to just focus on her and my family for a little bit and take a break from whatever I could in my work life. So now I'll be easing my way back into the circuit, I know I missed a lot but It was a renewal that I needed for myself and now I can be excited about my passions again and my blog.

The need for spring is getting sooo stressful here on the east coast, winter just doesn't want to let up yet. Maybe the feelings of spring like these wonderful fabrics from golly bard (i've been admiring Holly's work for a while now)will help to entice the sun to come out and play more.

new from ink & spindle

2011-02-21T09:41:00.001-05:00

My girl from down under Lara Cameron and her buisness partner Tegan Rose have a few new goodies in their textile studio, Ink & Spindle. Look at all these lovely new designs hand screen printed on limited edition 100% organic cotton jersey fabric. There are four new designs each in two different color choices...I adore the pirates and sea creatures print!!!

Also stay tuned for some new woven designs coming soon!

20 handmade valentines in 20 days

2011-02-07T09:26:00.000-05:00

My girl Abbey Hendrickson over at Aesthetic Outburst is doing a really wonderful project called 20 handmade Valentines in 20 days. She is creatively brilliant at exploring all kinds of craft techniques for example....

Love the heart medals! what an awesome thing to wear on your kids (or even your coat) during the season. Everyone needs a cheer up in the beginning of a long cold February.

two prime examples that valentine's day doesn't have to be such a commercial day. this year maybe refrain from buying a card and flowers and really put the effort into something original and unique to show your love.

Springtime with Normann Copenhagen

2011-01-25T09:14:00.000-05:00

Look at the lovelies in Norm's Spring 2011 collection. I just love the bold hints of color amongst the whites and neutrals. Here is a little sneak peek from the maison-objet trade show in Paris. You can see more of the photos at the NC flickr page.

uno candle holders

light houses

Briones and Co.

2011-01-19T09:27:00.000-05:00

Love these wonderful stationery gift ideas from Briones and co.

Newness

2011-01-17T14:46:00.000-05:00

As I'm getting back into the swing of things slowly, I've had some time here and there to bounce around on other creatives blogs and have noticed a growing trend on the notion of time in this new year. Not having enough of it and not being as creative as you'd hope to be with it. I thought I'd reaffirm this as something we all shouldn't be afraid of (even though I find that sentence being repeated over and over in my head). Honestly thats life... we have babies, work full time at something else, and start up businesses that need the mainstay of our time, love and tenderness in turn moving us farther and farther away from our little creative passions that we began with. I can tell you that I am one of those who blame the birth of my daughter and that pesky full time design job that I need to make a living from... yes, I would love to be a full time artist/crafter but I think I would miss my roll as a designer in the publishing industry as well. and my daughter of course has been the best thing thats ever happened to me (besides my marriage) and It would be literally impossible to take her back! lol

For a while I sat thinking that I was the only one with these creative roadblocks and kept asking myself why everyone else is on their way to creative happiness and I wasn't. I realized that a lot of those people were kidless and had the opportunity to focus fully on their work from day to day. I've grew to accept the fact that I am not that person and I never will be (well at least until Zoe is in college and on her own) so I have to do what I need to do at this point in my life and that is be a mother, a wife, and a designer first. I haven't decided what I will really do yet, I'm not sure if "time off" is necessary, maybe I'll get a new sketchbook and start small again and see where it takes me. At least I have the blog!

envelope pillows

2011-01-10T20:04:00.000-05:00

from the very talented Geninne...

Eco toting :: PAWLING

2011-01-04T10:14:00.000-05:00

As you know I'm a big fan of minimalism...less is always more in my eyes for good design. Pawling print studio is very much a representative of this theory. I especially love their big bulky eco shopping totes that sport these wonderful minimalist patterns and illustrations.

Vintage By Color :: Hilda Grahnat

2011-01-03T14:51:00.001-05:00

It's great to be back in this New Year! I've been doing a lot of resting and focusing on my family this past month, sadly to say that in the process my studio turned into the catch all for gift wrapping and storage for when holiday guest arrive... I knew it was time to jump back in and maybe spark enough inspiration to get myself going with some new projects that have been stewing in my head. I am looking forward to this year, but I hope most of all to get back into the saddle with my art, it's time for this mommy to give herself a little bit of her old creative intuition back!

What a better way to start off the new year then with these wonderful shots by Swedish photographer Hilda Grahnat. Vintage by Design.

favorite things of 2010

2010-12-07T15:02:00.000-05:00

Today I've decided that I'm going to take a little hiatus from the blog world for the rest of December. Zoe is well aware of the holidays now and I want to really dive into it with her and my family. It was a hard decision to make but I'm going to use this time to refresh myself and really spend quality time with the ones I love most. All is not lost, for I will be back come the new year and we can go on together seeking out those little inspirational gems here on FB.

Before I sign off for a short winters nap, I've compiled a list of some of my most favorite posts of 2010. Also thank you to all of my dear Ornament Swappers, this year was such a success and i hope to keep up the "old school" sign ups going for next year. Live, Love and most of all ENJOY this Holiday Season, see you next year!

feeling folky with roddy and ginger.

crafting for a cause

the work of textile designer karen barbe.

custom stationery from Rifle Paper Co.

leah duncan textiles and prints

say hello to Peekaboo Collective

feedback loop notebook project

holiday quick picks

2010-11-30T09:05:00.000-05:00

doodle drawn throw pillows from The Small Object

lets go everywhere vintage paint by number USA from Somethings Hiding Here.

Mid Century Modern 2011 letterpress calendar from my gal Rachel at Pistachio Press.

Volume 1 :: Camilla Engman

2010-11-22T20:34:00.000-05:00

I realize posts are few and far between lately and I do apologize for that. My work days are consisting of doing three peoples jobs in one which can be very draining especially when you come home to a spunky 1 year old and what you'd really love to do is sleep! I'm sure many of you have experienced this very same thing. When things like this happen you kind of have to tell yourself that you can't do EVERYTHING even though you think you can, this is consistently my problem so i've had to make a few sacrifices like posting less in order to have the time for organizing the ornament swap. I'm hoping that after the holidays, I can hunker down and really become more apart of my world here once again.

In the meantime check out this amazing creation from Camilla Engman. Its a 192 page book called the suitcase series :: volume 1, it's filled with all types of goodies from postcard art prints to an original baggage tag. Preorder and get a lovely two color print!

ink & wit :: totem animals at play

2010-11-09T09:03:00.000-05:00

New lovely calendar designs by tara hogan of ink & wit. Totem animals at play is locally printed on 100% cotton paper made from tree free fibers. see more pics and a wonderful description of the calendars inspiration here.

nebo peklo :: new work

2010-11-08T11:01:00.000-05:00

New work from Natalie Tweedie of Nebo Peklo. Lovely letterpress print of autumn poppies.
It is on sale for $60 at the working proof gallery and 15% of the proceeds will go direct to the Show Hope charity who are dedicated to orphan care and facilitating adoption.

Announcing the 5th Annual Holiday Ornament Swap

2010-11-01T09:27:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the 5th Annual Holiday Ornament Swap hosted by freshlyblended! You'll be happy to know that the swap has gone back to it's original format. Every group will be organized with care and the you will once again be able to swap within your own groups. Please read the sign up rules accordingly so that we can have a highly organized swap! Today is the beginning of our week long sign ups, the sign up window will close on Sunday November 7th.

The guidelines are simple:

1. Sign up for the swap by sending an email with the following information to holidayswap10@gmail.com

- NAME

- FULL MAILING ADDRESS

- EMAIL

- your website or blog (only one site please)

2. On November 15th you'll receive an email from us containing the addresses of 8-10 other swap participants to send your ornaments to.

3. Design a handmade ornament that you can create multiples of and make your ornaments.

4. Package your ornaments well...especially if you create anything fragile.

5. Send one of your ornaments to each person on the list of 8-10 other swap participants in your group by December 10th.

6. Sit back, relax and wait as you receive 8-10 fabulous handcrafted ornaments in the mail!

If you would like to share photos of the ornaments you make and receive, please do so in the swap flickr group: http://www.flickr.com/groups/1530273@N20/ You will need a flickr account to upload photos. A flickr account is free and easy to set up. We will be choosing photos from the group at random through out the holiday season on freshlyblended.

****A note on international shipping****

This year we will have the ability again to specify how many international addresses you will get, we will do our best to make it as equal as possible but please understand that we do get a larger amount of US swappers every year, so please plan for that. If you package your ornaments accordingly, shipping prices really aren't that much different considering the weight of your ornament. Be sure to read your countries shipping policies as well.

*********************************************************************************************************************************

Common questions we answered just for you!

What sort of materials can be used?

~Anything! Knit, sew, letterpress, gocco, paint, draw, sculpt, glaze, cut-out, glue, weave, blow glass, weld...go nuts. Please note that certain countries have restrictions as far as importing grains, beans, or other like materials, so please take that into consideration if you are making ornaments to ship internationally.

Who are the other people I'll be swapping with?

~The other people on the swap list you receive on November 15th.

Will my address be on the internet anywhere?

~No. The only people who will receive your address are the people you are swapping with.

What about shipping costs?

~You are responsible for shipping costs for your ornaments...just as others are paying to ship ornaments to you.

Other questions? Email holidayswap10@gmail.com

HAPPY SWAPPING TO ALL!

book review :: good fall reads

2010-10-29T12:34:00.000-04:00

I have two really great books to share with you today. Firstly, we have this wonderful little book of letterpress. As this age old craft has come full circle in the past few years, this collection of greatly talented studios show just how innovative this traditional printing technique has become. This book proudly sits on my coffee table for all to see and it will stay there for a long time.

next we have Lotta Jansdotter's Handmade Living. This book radiates simple living ideas for real people. Lotta pulls us into her personal scandinavian style and shows us that you can do a lot with a small space. You can learn a lot from this one, i know I have. It's truly a treasure trove of simple beauty.

pre-swap news

2010-10-27T12:37:00.000-04:00

hi again, I wanted to share with you a special announcement before swap sign ups begin next week. We will NOT be using swap bot this year. We have decided that we'd like to get back to our old school swap roots and do everything by hand again. It may take more work but it's well worth it in the end. Our two biggest concerns from most swappers are answered below.

1. There were too many flakers on swap bot, how can we solve this?
~unfortunately we can not control flakers either way, we rely on good faith and it's just unfortunate that some people never follow through. The good news is that we can better control the flakers now because the groups will be set by me.

2. Can we have the same send and receive partners?
~a big fat YES to that question. We are going back to our original format and will also try our best to level off the amount of international swapping in each group. This makes for a more meaningful and personal swap.

So stay tuned on November 1st for sign up details.

covered :: FBA studio

2010-10-26T14:43:00.000-04:00

I've been seeing these beautiful designs passed around the web and I finally caught them from FBA studio in Portugal.

Reality check

2010-10-25T15:06:00.000-04:00

It's moments like this that make me feel less guilty about leaving my studio alone for a year and a half to be a full time mommy. It's true, there are those times where I feel like I've let my creative intuition go in the fact that I'm not creating as much or I'm not blogging as much but I don't regret the things I've sacrificed in my creative life to have those moments with my daughter, to play peekaboo and act like a kid again...it's really the best inspiration you can have.
It's really important for me to dive right in to motherhood and give zoe everything she needs to enrich her life and become an excellent person. It's definitely been a trying year but I realized that this was my time to slow down and live my life for someone else for a change, and more importantly I learned that It's okay to set things aside for a bit and learn something new, experience different aspects of yourself you never knew you had. love it, live it.

whimsy letterpress :: 1 canoe 2

2010-10-25T09:27:00.000-04:00

I love the hand illustrated work of 1 canoe 2. This quaint little shop takes letterpress to the next level with DIY letterpress paper house kits, whimsy calendars, and more.

carved by hand

2010-10-19T09:01:00.000-04:00

really great and intricate hand carved stamps by minna from her shop, eat pray create. She also does custom carvings.

little lovelies from yellow canoe

2010-10-19T08:49:00.000-04:00

lovely variations on wood. yellow canoe.

Pre-swap news

2010-10-18T15:42:00.000-04:00

Hello to all those giddy ornament swappers out there! Just a little note today to let you know that YES, the swap is back for it's 5th year! Fb will be launching swap sign-ups on NOVEMBER 1st and will be open only until NOVEMBER 8th (it's a one week window) We will be using the swap bot website again this year so go on over and set up an account with them if you haven't already or make sure your account still exists from last year if you haven't been there since then. stay tuned for full sign up details on NOVEMBER 1st.

stacks of beige

2010-10-14T08:36:00.000-04:00

Sew it yourself hemp/organic cotton blend tiles from karen barbe.

COVERED :: redesign of Carl Jung series

2010-10-11T10:30:00.000-04:00

For the longest time, I've been trying to find a way to emirs my title as a book cover designer into FB, It's been difficult because a lot of what inspires me on FB isn't directly influenced by what I do behind the scenes...I could call it the "other life".... I am a book cover designer by trade but my personal style dives into places that the publishing world knows little about so I always find that there is a separation between the two and i'd like to attempt to bring them together.
I'd like to start a weekly series that pays homage to beautiful book cover designs. "COVERED" will dive into the publishing design world and give you a taste of some really great design processes that are over looked very often for whats inside rather then whats on the cover. Hopefully as this series progresses I can also share with you little tidbits of my experiences as a cover designer and what it is we actually design.
for starters here is a quick look at an intelligent redesign by Kathleen Lynch for Princeton University Press. The Redesign is of their Carl Jung backlist as a series, starting with 5 titles. The artwork is a series of paintings reproduced in The Archetypes & The Collective Unconscious.

beautiful tidbits from Nest Pretty Things

2010-10-11T10:06:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you've seen these delicate delights from Nest Pretty Things on the web, I just couldn't resist posting them on FB. Living beautifully in Vermont, Tamar translates her living environment in to these lovely jewelry pieces. What great inspiration she gets from her surroundings.

lulu dee letterpress

2010-09-29T08:58:00.000-04:00

Super cute new letterpress shop called LuLu Dee, inspired by mid century modern design.

quick picks...

2010-09-28T14:14:00.000-04:00

love this prototype for cloud 9's 2011 tea towel calendar

liberty coin purses blogged over at purl bee

the "me plus you" quilt by kelly mccaleb.

weaving love

2010-09-23T08:55:00.000-04:00

love these new weave patterns for lu summers newest book creations. it's refreshing to see a "non-white" pattern, so bright and cheery.

new works from Judy Kaufman

2010-09-23T08:47:00.000-04:00

Love these new prints from judy kaufmann (via papernstitch blog).

a few good TYPES...

2010-09-21T09:43:00.002-04:00

I'm in the mood for some Type candy today (the image is the link today, taken from my flickr faves).....

random love......

2010-09-17T11:34:00.001-04:00

It's been a long week and I'm sad to say I didn't share to much so here is my hodge podge of inspiration for the week, think of it as a mini gallery of what has inspired me through the week...

Freehand Embroidery by Three Red Apples.

Gocco print by Lizzy Stewart.

Tea Pot from Neest.

say hello to PEEKABOO COLLECTIVE!

2010-09-08T15:19:00.001-04:00

I'm super excited to post today, it's a special one for me, it's the launch of my latest and greatest project called Peekaboo Collective, a collection of organic & handmade products for children and grown-ups alike!

Sprouted from an idea planted in the Spring of 2010, myself and my two partners, Shelly Kuzniarek—a designer and letterpress wizard and Jodi Wroblewski—a designer and silk screen master, have decided to combine efforts to make all of our skill sets of illustration, design and printing more powerful through teamwork.

Although we are each accomplished on our own as designers and makers, together we are hoping to develop ideas further and push past the formulaic and almost expected designs that are so often seen for babies and toddlers. We draw inspiration from a variety of sources, but mostly from nature and the little ones that surround us.

We hope you enjoy our eco efforts and can't wait to show you what else we have in store!

until I can get all my banners and links up on the blog, check out our etsy shop and there are more photos here.

The Feedback Loop Notebook Project

2010-09-08T09:31:00.000-04:00

check out this really cool pro bono project created to benefit youth all over the country.

Twenty-five leading letterpress printers were asked to create fifty unique notebooks. They could do whatever they wanted. Their limited edition books will be sold on Felt & Wire Shop, in a special storefront, with 100% of the proceeds going to Design Ignites Change, to support their School: by Design youth mentorship program.

Also a catalyst for change, Mohawk Fine Papers donated the paper; and the printers could pick any stock they wanted from the Mohawk Loop paper line. Our youth will be in control someday so lets guide them in the right direction.

back to school goodies

2010-09-07T14:08:00.000-04:00

This morning on the news all the talk was about back to school season...I wish I could say "Hurrah" but I have a few more years before I can put Little Miss Zoe on the bus! so, In proper back to school spirit I've got a few quick picks from one of my favorite shops, Present & Correct.

Sponsor Spotlight :: Two Pooch Paperie

2010-09-02T08:53:00.000-04:00

Two Pooch Paperie is a custom stationery and invitation shop that came to life in 2008. Owner/designer/illustrator Kellie Micka is a graphic designer in the marketing world by day and spends her nights and weekends creating the type of design she loves most, paper goods. The shop also offers custom party items to match the invitations such as gift tags, thank you notes, cupcake toppers, stickers and pennant banners. We welcome you with open arms!!

uncommon coasters

2010-09-01T08:51:00.000-04:00

I really adore these laser engraved birch doily coasters from the uncommon shop. although i think they are too cute to actually put a glass on top of them!

Tinker Supply Co.

2010-08-30T09:01:00.002-04:00

little lovelies from Tinker Supply Co. The collection is comprised of new, handmade, eco-friendly and vintage goods – all tools for simple living.

art school must haves....

2010-08-24T20:47:00.001-04:00

I owe you big time, therefore here is a big post on some essential reading materials/conversation pieces to bring with you to art school...It's been a rough week and it made me think about when I was in college and I didn't have a worry in the world and all I "had" to do was be an art student...If I were back at school I would only change one thing, the amount of knowledge that I got out of my reading materials, lets just say that my professors were good at teaching but bad at picking reference materials that represented what design is "today". With that said, if your having the same problem, here are a few good "out of the box" picks that I recommend you take a look at on your own time.

Every student knows that they live on a very limited income especially if your away at school...so get creative, and DIY...nothing is better then making a one of a kind piece to show off while at the same time feeding your brain with inspiration on your down time. Check out DIY Fashion by Selena Francis-Bryden (um yeah, can you say sex and the city stylist). This book will not only save you money but It will teach you how to use the resources you already have to create something fantastic!

Music Lover? We all know that music is the source of some great creative inspiration, but how about seeing that musical inspiration translated into some really beautiful graphic design pieces by Jason Munn. Check out The Small Stakes: Music Posters, an intense collection of Jason's work in the age old form of the rock poster...if your into the music and love collecting the posters, this book is for you, i really had to go through the book twice because I felt like I missed some details the first time, just so much to look at and drool over.

Lastly, for the more theory driven art student we have just the elixir for you, From Here to There: A curious connection from the Hand Drawn Map Association by Kris Harzinski. Does the way we draw maps tell us anything about ourselves? what happens if you get lost along the way? how would one draw a map of their psyche? Just some things to ask yourself the next time you draw out directions for someone...

leah duncan textiles and prints

2010-08-19T09:28:00.001-04:00

I've posted about Leah's work before but I do love seeing my favorites grow with their art as leah is doing with her prints. If your an illustrator you definitely get the upper hand once you dive into the world of textiles. Some of my most favorite prints are those that have that hand drawn aesthetic. See more of leah duncans brilliant work at her etsy shop.

Vintage summer

2010-08-17T15:53:00.001-04:00

Summing up the summer with vintage seaweed prints from trampoline on Geninne's wall.

Poketo for Target

2010-08-11T08:48:00.001-04:00

Check out all the awesomeness that poketo mixed up for target!!! need I say more?

Make Like a CACTUS

2010-08-09T15:14:00.001-04:00

I love the idea of creating a limited edition line of cactus related items! Thats just what the kids at makelike design studio are doing. Why not celebrate everyones favorite spiny succulent in the form of wallpaper, tea towels posters and pillow cases! All are made with care and concern for the environment and the customer and use water-based inks and natural materials in or around Portland, Oregon...stay tuned for "forest"!

little things that bling...

2010-08-03T09:04:00.001-04:00

I get really happy when someone takes an ordinary thing and turns it into "bling"...Take these clothes pins for instance, they were just regular old wooden pins until Natalie over at olive manna hand dyed them these fabulous colors! not only could you use them to hang your undies in style, but even better, it gives them a voice to be more multi functional somewhere else like maybe for your mood board in the studio or even using them in your booth at renegade this year... the possibilities are endless (and totally green!)

A little personal...

2010-08-02T10:26:00.001-04:00

Hey all,
It's a bit different for me to get personal on my blog but I just wanted to check in with you as I'm sure you've noticed that regular daily posting isn't so regular lately. Most of this comes from my ever growing problem of taking too much on all at once and spreading myself too thin. As you all know I'm a new mommy now and even though I wish my blog was my main focus and income in life, I do hold a full time job as a book cover designer...which I can say I like very much but makes me stuck in the office most of the time. Along side of these duties, I've also been battling an illness which flared up when Zoe was born and I'm kind if sitting and waiting until I can see a specialist in September. It's nothing life threatening but It breaks down my mind and body to the point of exhaustion by the end of every day. I in NO WAY am announcing an end to freshlyblended, don't worry...I am merely letting you know why I am not posting every day like usual. It's a bit daunting to know that I don't have the energy to do the things I would normally do on a daily basis, but I'm confident that this fall will bring a brighter outlook for me and hopefully put freshlyblended back on track as well as the rest of my life.

I wanted to share with you this because you mean alot to me and I feel that over the years freshlyblended has become a staple for me to be inspired by everyday and you are what makes that happen. Thanks to a great online community, wonderful husband, beautiful child and a positive future!

Keep sending in your submissions, and have a great end to your summer. Zoe is doing well and soaking up the summer sun all the time!

new at Papa Stour

2010-07-29T09:05:00.001-04:00

Lots of new lovlies at Papa Stour....

Love this printed silk scarf by CLO.

Indian slipper cushion by textile designer Grace.

Acrylic fruit bowl by designer Libby.

Sparkle Power

2010-07-27T08:45:00.001-04:00

Candace Todd makes a whimsical mix of hand sewn items from vintage fabrics and fabulous type driven prints...go on over to her papernstitch exhibition and check out the too cute tooth fairy pillows.

Ruka-Ruka :: customized

2010-07-26T08:57:00.002-04:00

I received a lovely note from Sinead of Ruka-Ruka, a quaint family run print shop in London. They specialize in custom prints for the modern mom and dad and their special little wee one. I love this take on customizing gifts for a new bundle, we've all seen the names on baby shoes thing but something like this is not only meaningful but seriously, how cool is it to have your baby's birth date as a piece of art in your living space! Check out their new site and get creative.

sneak peek :: new Zoe Ingram

2010-07-22T12:46:00.001-04:00

Sorry if I'm being a cheater Zoe, but I am so excited to see these new prints you have going on here! So far the colors are so brilliant and I just adore all the layerd shapes...I guess we'll just have to keep following your blog for launch updates!

Bow Tie love!

2010-07-21T09:15:00.001-04:00

First Mustaches, now Bow Ties! you never know what those crazy kids at Somethings Hiding in Here are going to do next. Their inspiration this time is drawn from some super impressive mid-century artists, architects and designers who flaunted the bow tie with their creative and cunning ways. I feel like I'm in a wonderful candy shoppe in the sky when I look at these beautiful patterns and details. What will they think of next?

These beauties will be launching at the curiosity shoppe this summer in SF, I hope your launch is as splendid as your work guys!

Three sheets 2 the wind :: in color

2010-07-19T10:31:00.001-04:00

loving this new line of multi colored prints from three sheets 2 the wind. The color combos and lovely choice of linen give a really great vintage flair to the prints.

RIFLE

2010-07-13T09:02:00.001-04:00

okay, I held back on this post for a while because everyone and their mother has been posting about Rifle Paper Co.. I just had to open my mouth about how much I obsess over what Anna Bond and her husband Nathan have created. It's not just your typical fine stationery store, It's a world of paper all in it's own...Anna's whimsical hand drawn illustrations and lettering just make you feel all cozy inside and I can not emphasize enough that their attention to detail is just brilliant. I mean, you just don't see this handicraft on personalization anymore. Rifle really puts a new name on customization and will definitely one up you in the imagination category...hence those gorgeous program fans! okay okay, i've blabbed enough so go see for yourself.

Kup Kup

2010-07-12T15:23:00.001-04:00

Love these new bird collages by kup kup land...I think I'm having a bright color fetish right now!

Mark your calendars...

2010-07-12T14:48:00.001-04:00

oh I'll be there....

on Cloud9....

2010-07-07T13:16:00.001-04:00

I love you, Michelle Engel Bencsko!...okay and your work too! Michelle runs two shops full of wonderful textile prints that I can't stop drooling over. Cloud 9 fabrics is an all organic cotton fabric company with all original designs such as the newest addition (below), forest friends flannel...Her other brainchild, Cicada Studio is a mixture of some more sophisticated (yet still light and whimsical) prints and handmade goodies. Girl you made my 95 degree day feel alot nicer! be sure to inquire about some sample swatches while your there.

welcome back...

2010-07-06T08:48:00.001-04:00

Hello folks, It's good to be back! I had a lovely "staycation" just hanging out with family and doing some much needed work on our little homestead. Now I find myself back behind the computer screen with a blank mind! time to get back in the flow and exploring all of the wonderful things I've missed the past two weeks! It's nice to get away but it stinks when you haven't been able to keep up with all the goings on around blogville!

I do however have a tiny treat to show you...I got some raw shots of my newest project back while I was away and I thought I'd just throw out a small teaser to give you a little taste of what will soon to be launched. I'm very excited about this project, It's a new realm for me where I get to tap back into my illustrative side and work along side some really talented peeps! Thats all I can tell you for now but you'll find out soon! I promise.

gone fishing....

2010-06-21T12:57:00.001-04:00

It's about that time where I sadly say that I'm taking a blogging break for a little bit. Not for a long time, just long enough for me to enjoy my family, maybe finish my back garden, help jay put new windows in, catch a flea market or two, take zoe swimming or to the zoo, visit with my brother and his family, go on a picnic at the beach, and even maybe have a little time to myself along the way. We all need a break from time to time, a time to reconnect, re-energize and clear the mind even if you don't go anywhere, make sure you do this a couple times a year, you deserve it and will feel soooo much better after.

Happy Summer to you all, see you in 2 weeks!

Serve it up!

2010-06-15T08:33:00.001-04:00

Just in time for summertime parties, loving these melamine serving trays and plates from olive manna!

Book Review :: DIY greatness

2010-06-14T09:20:00.001-04:00

In a time of economic uncertainty and high stress, we as creatives strive to take control of what we want to put in our homes and constantly look for that money saving or recyclable project that can really make our spaces unique and comfortable. DIY is the best remedy for this, and it doesn't have to be a big project, that can take up to two weeks to complete. For instance, see what Lotta Jansdotter is cooking up now in her newest book/ stencil kit for all things surface printing. What can I say, I'm a big sucker for Lotta's work and I've already purchased curtains to print on, now I have the trouble of deciding which lovely stencil design I want to use from this really informative kit of her's!

not only does Lotta give you access to 10 of her own designs via reusable stencils, but she really illustrates and guides you through different techniques and surfaces that you can print on in a very well organized step-by-step guide.

Another crafty lady we all know and love, the very talented Kathreen Ricketson of whipup.net has gained a lifetime of inspiration. After reading her intro, I had a sense of relation to her crafty experiences growing up with her grandmother, a quilter/crafter. I to grew up with a variety of craftsmen (ladies) in my family, my grandmother was a quilter, my grandfather, did stained glass when he retired, my Papa was an architect and my mother, my DIY hero, seamstress... actually anything she gets her hands on is a crafting work of art. This book is a homage to those who have inspired us to use materials that are right under our eyes and turn them into another functional delight... people like my mother, who took apart her mothers wedding dress and reconstructed a totally different gown for her own wedding.

Kathreen includes some great whimsical pattern pieces for you to try and really explains the basics of sewing so even those like me who would love to run their sewing machine more, can just do that!

Both these great books are published by chronicle books and are available now so go get yours and get your craft on!

blank canvases

2010-06-10T11:43:00.001-04:00

Funny how yesturday I went wild and out about color and now I'm sharing my love for starkness with you....I am a big fan of color and I am a big fan of white and often times I struggle with just the right balance between the two when I'm in the decorating mindset. The simple shapes and clean white lines of Scandinavian design will always be the closest to my heart, I mean there is nothing more timeless and "trend free" then that, right? So to pay homage to those wonderful blank silhouettes I adore so much, here are some really great inspirational accessories to play around with. Don't forget, COLOR IS GOOD, a touch here and a touch there.....

Ball clock George Nelson $576, Quasi Modo Modern Furniture. Side table Gino Carollo Vanity for Bonaldo $480, OneTwenty Modern. Coffeepot Kaico enamelled $105, Cookie tray Stine Sandwell $148, Mjolk.
(photo by Edward Pond via styleathome.com)

Jewelry stand iron dollhouse chairs $78, Urban Outfitters.
(photo by Edward Pond via styleathome.com)

Floating shelves Kole lacquered $48 each, The Home Depot. Child's rocking chair moulded fibreglass $255, Hourglass $49, Vase ceramic $35, Elte. Jewelry trees metal $24 (top shelf), $20 (bottom shelf); Drinking glass Swirl $10; Urban Outfitters. Sphere shell $8, Shell Murex Ramos $16, West Elm. Glove mould porcelain $16, L’Atelier. Frame Ribba $10, IKEA. Votive holder Jennifer Graham stamped $40, Hollace Cluny. Birdcage $45, Accents de Ville.
(photo by Edward Pond via styleathome.com)

Lamp KleinReid Aubry porcelain $385, Stool Kosoy & Bouchard pressed ceramic $1,600, Hollace Cluny. Vase raised lace pattern $20, HomeSense.
(photo by Edward Pond via styleathome.com)

Color Me :: Tangy Orange

2010-06-10T09:44:00.001-04:00

1. "Bird Hoops" 2. "Seaside Wedding" 3. "Vintage Spanish Ceramics" 4. "Day ninety one"

Bursting with color!

2010-06-09T09:08:00.001-04:00

I needed a real pick-me-up with this rain today and Poketo always puts a bright shiny smile on my face. check out some of their newest colorful additions...makes me want to redecorate while wearing sun glasses!

Tim Biskup Lamp Set

Wish Come True Blind Box Toys

Chris Bettig Vase

State Food!

2010-06-09T09:02:00.001-04:00

We all know that each of the US states are represented with a bird, animal, flower, and even an insect, well now there is a state food! represent with this awesome hand screen printed tote from the Melangerie shop known for their state celebrity totes!

little lovelies from Katie Daisy

2010-06-03T08:53:00.001-04:00

I love ringing in the summer season with bright colors and floral motifs such as that of Katie Daisy and her shop The Wheatfield. Katie uses a wide variety of techniques and materials to create her lovely prairie-inspired artwork that is chock-full of optimism. Oftentimes featuring empowering and uplifting hand lettered phrases, Katie's artwork serves as a gentle reminder for us to live authentically and follow our bliss.

it's in the leather....

2010-06-02T08:38:00.001-04:00

Some really amazing craftsmanship here from Kara Ginther Leather. I almost wouldn't want to sit on these gorgeous saddles! It's such an exciting feeling when I come across someone who is taking an age old pastime and bringing it into modern times...just goes to show how much we still have to learn from the past.

TYPEFACE :: a disapearing legacy

2010-06-01T10:19:00.001-04:00

I totally want to catch this lovely documentary filmed in rural Two Rivers, Wisconsin at the Hamilton Print Factory. It's existence is one of the last and what they do there for the printing industry is a legacy that may be coming to an end. This is a fascinating journey of one man who gave up the digital design world to get back into the craft and art of handmade woodtype printing struggles to keep the museum going. can't wait to see it. read more and watch the trailer here.

What home means to me...

2010-06-01T09:26:00.002-04:00

Today I'm excited to post my PIN IT FORWARD :: "what home means to me". There are so many things that I could think of to share but I had to narrow it down quite a bit and hopefully what I chose is a representation of what inspires me day by day. My home is a constant work in progress, it's the biggest creative challenge in my life and I am constantly dreaming of what I would call my "ultimate living environment", then again, aren't we all?

To me HOME is....

... A simple, clean cozy space where there is a mixture of modern meets vintage....

.... Where tere are little hints of whimsy where you'd least expect it...

.... where there is a big open space to gather and cook great food...

... where you can display your favorite things any way you want...

... a reflection of the life you have worked so hard to create for yourself and your family.

you can visit my pintrest board to see the other things of "HOME" that inspire me. Thanks to Victoria for putting together such a great blogger mash up!
Check out the Pins for tomorrow at:
Size too Small
Sunshine on a cloudy day
Krystal Rose blog
Everything Little Miss
Ladies Who Brunch
Lolalina
Lindsey Bee
One Sydney Road
Diana Mini Love
Hey Lady Grey

By Graziela :: then and now

2010-05-27T10:08:00.001-04:00

Since 1965 Graziela Preiser has worked as a successful creative director, graphic designer and illustrator. Alongside her work for several lifestyle-magazines she has created and designed a variety of collections, from bedlinen and children’s fashion to stylish crockery. The unique Graziela designs were made internationally famous by press coverage and acclaim, especially through the magazine ‘Brigitte’ which had many popular mail order pieces all designed by her.

by Graziela is relaunching Graziela Preiser’s iconic designs which were hugely popular in the 1970’s in Germany.

Co-founded by Graziela and her daughter Nina, the by Graziela label they have reissued the legendary ‘1,2,3 design’ on kids bedding, sleepwear and nursery interior accessories. The 2nd relaunched collection is the 'train design', all soon to be followed by other unique and striking design classics from the German designer.

In the Archives section of their site, you can have a chance to pick your favorite past design to relaunch next, they will be drawing a winner every two months so there is a pretty good chance of winning something cool!

I could swear I had wallpaper in my room similar to this poster print, although mine was probably some cheap knock off from ames or something! lol at least I know I was kinda hip as a kid then!

Sponsor Spotlight :: Spur Design

2010-05-26T08:37:00.001-04:00

A big welcome Spur Design! Spur is a multi media graphic design studio which has also launched a great little shop with original prints and art from Joyce Hesselberth, David Plunkert and their studio.

Helen Rawlinson :: after my own heart

2010-05-24T11:21:00.001-04:00

It's been strange not having an etsy shop open in the past few months. I haven't taken a break, trust me, I've been hard at work behind the scenes on a great new project that I hope to launch soon. Right now I'm waiting for that perfect weather for a photo shoot outside and then we'll be ready to go. What I can tell you for now is a name and a place to bookmark, Peekaboo Collective, Inspired by kids... just like the work of Helen Rawlinson who shows that being a mom doesn't have to just be about wiping faces and changing diapers! I admire Helen because she opens the doors to how kids can inspire us in the design world and really translates that simple childlike aesthetic in her prints and textiles.

seesaw letterpress calendar

2010-05-20T08:30:00.001-04:00

I am really enjoying this oversized letterpressed calendar from seesaw designs. I'm a few months late but there is still plenty of time to show it off before 2011. The limited-edition wall calendar includes four designs, each with 3 months per page (size is 7.25″x11.5).

Studio Fluid

2010-05-18T18:44:00.001-04:00

Little lovelies from Studio Fluid, a young creative collective from Italy.

from hand painted wooden magnets...

..to hand printed correspondence note sets...

..to cute hand painted blocks for your wee one.

tiny joys...

2010-05-13T12:46:00.001-04:00

...lovely reclaimed vintage cushion covers from tiny happy....

In Bloom

2010-05-11T10:15:00.001-04:00

In 2008 Three high school friends combined their multi talents of printmaking, installation and costume design into In Bloom Design Studio, located in Taiwan. They rely only on the their beautiful organic surrounding for inspiration (the best kind) and translate them into these beautiful contemporary prints. All their work is hand silk screened and designed with so much precision, as you can see in these gorgeous product shots. It was fun hoping around their blog but you'll have to use google translator. They also have some really great shots of their life behind the scenes at installations and shows on their flickr site.