abbydid

All Things Corduroy -or- A Little Plush From a Few of My Friends

2011-11-11T00:47:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I've had the privilege to curate a corduroy plush show for the Corduroy Appreciation Club's big meeting on 11|11|11. I am here to share with you this incredible work. I'd like to say, it has been such a pleasure working with these 11 extraordinarily talented artists, and I'm grateful to have such wonderful friends who do such incredible work. Work that will be available for sale November 12th at noon at the Plush Team's website. Buy some.

Pinwale Pin Whale by Squirrel Momma

Meet the Pinwale Pin Whale. The Corduroy Appreciation Club’s main public symbol is the whale. The whale is a homonym of wale. Wale, or wales, is the raised portion of Corduroy fabric—its most distinctive trait and what makes Corduroy, Corduroy. Whales also possess attributes the CAC and its membership wish to exude: strength, endurance, intelligence, sociability, and mystery. The Whale should always be facing left.

About the Artist:

Squirrel Momma, who sometimes goes by the secret identity of Amy Williams, is a fiber artist living and working in West Michigan. Trained as a metalsmith, she has now turned to soft sculpture and is fascinated with bringing to life tiny creatures and making sure each and every one gets to tell the world his bizarre and amazing story. Find more of Squirrel Momma's work at www.squirrelmomma.etsy.com.

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Cordelia by ThEm DoLLz

Meet Cordelia, a pensive lady who has spent hours upon hours reflecting upon a sense of fellowship rooted in the historic and culturally significant fabric known as Corduroy.

About the Artist:

This piece is created by Jen Musatto of ThEm DoLLz. Each of her dollz are handmade with love using new or recycled clean fabric, buttons, safety eyes, and new polyfil. Each one is a one-of-a-kind creation, as she does not use a pattern. Cordelia is signed by the artist on her back patch to assure authenticity. To find more work by ThEm DoLLz visit www.themdollz.etsy.com.

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Wavy Wade by Patti Haskins

Wavy Wade is the Whale of Wales. Wade thinks those cords are so groovy he styles them everywhere he goes. The Corduroy Appreciation Club’s main public symbol is the whale. The whale is a homonym of wale. Wale, or wales, is the raised portion of Corduroy fabric—its most distinctive trait and what makes Corduroy, Corduroy. Whales also possess attributes the CAC and its membership wish to exude: strength, endurance, intelligence, sociability, and mystery. The Whale should always be facing left.

About the Artist:

Patti Haskins is a self-taught artist and her work reflects her love of animals and her goofy sense of humor. Whether crocheted, sewn, painted, or computer generated, chances are the subject matter she portrays will be animal. Most likely, cat or dog; but fish, bunnies, squirrels and ferrets and now a whale have been known to leap out of her studio. See more at pattihaskins.com.

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"Waling" Banshee

According to Irish folklore, banshees are fairy women (or ghosts of women who died, commonly in childbirth) who wail when death is nigh. Their wails are most often heard at night near woods.

About the Artist:

Jessica Puckett, the creature creator behind Plushroom Soup, sees no reason why plush can't be a little strange, like most of us. And even though she wears corduroy at least twice per week, this is the first time she's dressed a plushie in wale. It will not be the last. Find more of her work at www.plushroomsoup.etsy.com.

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Dapper Whale by Chris Creatures

Dapper Whale comes with a corduroy driver cap and removable corduroy vest, making him in full compliance with the "two item rule," the Corduroy Club mandate that all members where a minimum of two items of corduroy to gain admittance to the meeting.

About the Artist:

Chris Hwang a plush artist living in the DC Metro area. ChrisCreatures are inspired by simplicity, humor, and hip hop. Find more here: www.chriscreatures.etsy.com.

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Honey Badger Doesn't Give a Sh*t by Fuz Frenzy

This faux taxidermy sculpture is paying tribute to several honorable entities at once. First, the crochet method used creates ridges, thus forming the wonder that from this day forward shall be known as CORDUROY CROCHET!

As if that weren't enough, the subject matter the artist has chosen is that of the fearsome honey badger, the same one we all know and love for not giving one sh*t, depicted here in an eternal struggle with a cobra. The honey badger is a favored mascot among the members of the Plush Team, primarily because of the infamous youtube video by Randall.

About the Artist:

Jennifer Clayton is the mastermind behind fuzfrenzy. See what happens when you go to art school and end up crocheting monsters and whatnot. www.fuzfrenzy.etsy.com

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Hipster Wholphin by Christina Ward Creatures

Introducing Hipster Wholphin. One side smile, other side smirk, this marine mammal is wearing a scarf made of vintage Wisconsin flannels and corduroy. He is an expert in all things indie, totally vegan, and knows way more about Wes Anderson than you do. This hybrid combines the best qualities of the dolphin and the whale, elevating his cool factor to unfathomable heights. His parents make an unlikely couple, having met at a gallery opening of moronic art while sipping krill-washed bourbons.

About the artist:

Christina Ward is a stoic dilettante making ridiculous animals out of fur, fleece and yes, corduroy. She lived in the LES of NYC in the 1980's but now lives in Milwaukee; making her an ur-hipster.  

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Woody Allen, Corduroy Enthusiast by Plush Goodness

A famous lifelong Corduroy wearer and unconscious ambassador for the "everyman's fabric", you may also know of Woody Allen for his writing, directing, and sometimes acting in almost 70 feature films. Resplendent in his corduroy blazer and pinwale corduroy pants, Mr. Allen is fully compliant with the CAC's rule to wear 2 pieces of corduroy minimum.

About the artist:

Plush Goodness (aka Leeanna Butcher) is a freelance textile artist, fabric collector, and plush-aholic living and working in Northern California. She received her degree in Character Animation, and now uses that training to make her drawings come to life in plush form. When not busily sewing new creations, she spends her time with her scruffy dog and equally scruffy artist husband. Experience more of her work at www.plushgoodness.etsy.com.

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The Squid and the Wale by Plushinator

Amid the pod of whales we find a shining star, or rather, squid. As everyone knows, the whale is the mascot of the Corduroy Appreciation Club, but the cephalapod is equally worthy of your adoration, sporting his baby wale in a most glorious combination of plum and pink. Sometimes it really is preferable to stand out from the crowd, isn't it?

About the artist:

Lana Crooks loves the antique, the creepy, the cute and the mysterious. She began her artistic life as an illustrator, but became a sculptor of fabrics and found objects. She constructs all kinds of creatures (commonly those from the deepest oceans, but even the ones from under your bed). Explore more of her work at www.plushinator.etsy.com

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Grow a Pair by Scrumptious Delight

title: "Grow a pair"

description: corduroy capsule vending machine

dimensions:20" x 10" x 10"

materials: corduroy (of course!), vinyl, capsule vending balls, felt.

the idea: This handmade vending machine will happily dispense to you for the incredible price of .25 a capsule containing one pair of miniature corduroy flare pants. To "grow a pair" just add water and -voila- slip into your full-sized pants.

Becky Gould is the artist behind Scrumptious Delight. She is originally from Bournemouth in the UK but has roved the world, from Portugal, Spain, France and has now settled in Vancouver. Becky has created plush since she was a child, but felt her passion for sewing really ignite after her son was born ten years ago. Since then she has exhibited her work internationally and enjoyed recognition in various media outlets, including the cover of Stuffed magazine. Visit her at www.scrumptiousdelight.etsy.com.

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11|11|11 by Raggy Rat

the work

a triptych, actually

comprising of -

'the day'

'the month'

'the year'

and being three sets of paired number one plushies, all in cord.

This plush piece's title is a poem honoring the grandest of Corduroy Appreciation Club dates, 11|11|11. Meetings of the CAC occur only on dates which resemble Corduroy, which includes 1|11 and 11|1. Also worthy of excitement are the times 1:11 and 11:11. I think you get the gyst.

About the Artist:

The Raggy Rat is a place where you will find all kinds of goings on, although not all of them are based around rats and mice! 

Cat Owens enjoys working in many ways, but always come back to fabric and stitches. These days she even sticks fabric on her canvases! She enjoys private and community commissions as well as picking an idea and seeing where it takes her, and creates anything from costumes and puppets, to miniature toys. www.raggyrat.etsy.com

What on earth have I been up to?

2011-11-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

I've been oddly quiet for far too long, I know. It's been a strange year that way. Lots of covert operations going on over here, but I'm here to share some of it with you.

First off, there's a really nifty facebook app I'd like you to check out. I can't take credit for any of the handmade plush featured in it, but let's just say I have extremely intimate knowledge of every piece in there. One of them was replicated 100 times for promotional purposes. I imagine that whoever had that project must have been very busy indeed! But, as I said, legally the artist responsible for this work cannot publicly take credit for it. Whoever she may be.

Feel Better Friend! An app full of handmade plush. By someone really awesome.

What I'm pretty sure I CAN take credit for is that adorable baby girl in that photo. I totally made her. Isn't she gorgeous? Okay, quit staring and go play with the app.

Next up, there's a very special date approaching. 11|11|11 is NEXT WEEK, and I've been making preparations for a few months to celebrate this grandest of dates in high style with the Corduroy Appreciation Club, a social club based in New York City that celebrates this every-man's fabric and its related items. They hold spectacular meetings on dates that resemble corduroy, and this upcoming date of 11|11|11 is the date that most closely resembles corduroy of ALL TIME!

Not one to miss out on grand events, I will be packing the family into the minivan and trekking out to New York to attend this meeting, which is reported to be the last of its kind. I have this on authority, as my brother and his betrothed help run the organization. A multitude of wondrous events are planned, some of which are still being kept under wraps, but suffice it to say we have a very personal reason to attend this meeting that celebrates all things corduroy. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Once it's over I will regale you, not to worry! Many, many pictures with hilarious descriptions will rain down upon you, dear reader.

The whale is the mascot of the CAC, and should always be facing left.

But I've had another role to play as well, that of Plush CORDinator (get it? get it?). I'm cultivating a small exhibit of 11 plush pieces by 11 plush artists from my beloved Plush Team. These soft sculptures are incredible to behold, and will be displayed one night only at the CAC meeting held at the Desmond Tutu Center on 11|11|11. Alas, the event is sold out, so if you don't have your ticket you're out of luck to see the exhibit in person. Not to worry! These pieces will be available for purchase on Saturday, November 12th beginning at noon at the Plush Team's etsy shop, so that you may add one of these amazing creations to your private corduroy collection.

Look at my fancy membership card! Backed in CORDUROY!!! Jealous?

To attend a CAC meeting you must be wearing a minimum of two items of corduroy, which for this most auspicious date has been raised to THREE items. I've been making dresses, ties, helping with spats, scouring vintage shops, and I think we're good to go. Jason even has a pair of cordarounds, whose horizontal wale greatly diminishes crotch friction. Fancy!

So, while I put all the final details on our preparations, check out Plush Team's blog, where I've been celebrating 11 days of corduroy, revealing a different plush piece from the show each day. Also peruse the CAC's blog, as they have their own 11 days of corduroy to help you get into the spirit.

A sneak peek at a special project I made for the CAC.

ALL HAIL THE WALE!!!

How to be cool like me.

2011-09-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

I've been asked time and time again, "Abby, how can I ever be as cool as you?"

Actually, I have never once been asked this, but I know you are all thinking it and are merely too intimidated by my unmitigated awesomeness to ask. Not to fear! I've taken the liberty of answering your unspoken question for you. And here we go:

1. Have purple hair.
2. Get people's names wrong.
3. Have an extended family that is straight out of a Woody Allen movie, but not in a funny ha-ha kind of way.
4. Name inanimate objects. For example: your sewing machine, your minivan, etc. I've named mine Sappho and Black Mamba, so those are taken.
5. Watch way too much Dr. Who.
6. After half of an alcoholic beverage curl up on the couch like a little kitten and fall asleep. In other words, be the life of the party!
7. Assume everyone loves you.
8. Assume everyone hates you.
9. Argue with your cat.
10. Be perpetually inappropriate, ideally while using catch phrases too often or completely wrong.
11. Live on the West Side. Booyah.
12. Marry a dude who is artsy and sweet and shy and is totally smitten with you. Extra bonus points if he lusted for you from afar for several years. I can't recommend this highly enough.
13. Eat greek yogurt.
14. Walk around with your own personal soundtrack in your head. Randomly dance to it.
15. Do not leave the house for days on end and when you do it's to go to Target.

There! See how easy that is? Soon you too will be a raging badass like myself if you follow these simple steps. You're welcome!

Looking for me? Here I am!

2011-08-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

abbydid at The City Flea in June.

I've been keeping a low profile as of late, tis true, and it's been a good thing by and large. But I've missed all of you darlings! So I'm here to tell you there are 3 more craft shows where you will be able to find me should you desire some plush love and my delightful company.

I will be partaking in two shows this September and one in October. There will be NO SHOWS in November, and I may pop up a time or two in December, but that still remains in flux so no promises just yet. Meanwhile, I will do my best to keep Fabricate in Northside stocked, so that you can always find goodies there.

As always, custom orders are welcome and even encouraged, though the earlier we discuss those plans the better, ideally before Thanksgiving. The etsy shop is a bit threadbare, so if you don't see your heart's fondest desire give me a shout, I'm sure I can hook you up:)

There are some fun, funky things coming up to share with you, so some of my absence will make more sense when they begin rearing their heads. In the meantime they are to be kept secret. Oh, I do hate the suspense, don't you?

Come get a prize from the craftball machine!

And now, without further ado, where to find me over the next few months:

The City Flea

THIS SATURDAY!!! September 3rd, 10am-4pm

Central Parkway and Vine Street at the Cincinnatus Mural

Cincinnati, Ohio

This is the last City Flea of the summer, so be sure to hurry down! This has been such a fun show, I've loved being a part of it, both as a vendor and an attendee. I had the chance to visit the Brooklyn Flea last week, which inspired our own City Flea, and I have to say I like ours better:) Don't miss it! So much fun...

Westwood Art Show

Saturday, September 24 · 11:00am - 5:00pm

Westwood Town Hall (outside)
3017 Harrison Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio
Welcome to my neighborhood! I couldn't let this pass by without being a part of it, it's just such a lovely day filled with good music, good food, good finds, and good company.

Second Sunday on Main - Foodie Fest

Sunday, October 9 · 12:00pm - 5:00pm

Main Street between 13th and Liberty

Cincinnati, Ohio

The last Second Sunday of the year! This is the first year for the events to extend into October, making for a lovely fall day downtown with nice, cool temperatures. Jason generally insists we be located across from the beer truck, so look for us there. Be sure to enjoy the excellent food vendors and check out the celebrity chef demo. The chefs and cocktologist from Senate (which I hear is AMAZING) will teaching you the tricks of the trade. How can you pass that up? You can't.

Did you spot the blue polka-dotted nailbiter in the July Cincinnati Magazine? He's famous!

Now, some of you eagle eyes may have noticed this means NO CRAFTY SUPERMARKET. I know!!! Can you believe it? My schedule in November just isn't allowing for the time to make the inventory I'd need. BUT!!! Don't you dare miss it!!! I plan on being a volunteer and attending as a civilian, and if Fabricate has a table, as they usually do, I'll ask extra nicely that they include my plush fro their shop. Also, I'll make something nifty for the swag bags they hand out to the first 100 in the door.

Hope your summer has been gorgeous! See you soon:)

Team Ta-Tas

2011-08-02T06:49:00.000-07:00

I was approached this summer by Team Ta-Tas to create a few pieces for a special event. Team Ta-Tas is a Cincinnati-based organization whos goal is to raise breast cancer awareness as well as raise funds for the Susan G. Komen For the Cure. They are a fun, zany group, and it was my absolute pleasure to create something just for them.

This Friday, August 5th is Pink-a-POLOoza at the Polo Grille in Mason, Ohio from 6:00-10:00pm. Browse the various silent auctions and vendors, all there to help raise money for this worthy cause, while sipping a TaTaTini! And wear your pink. These ladies do love PINK! I know I'm hoping to make it, so I'm sure I'll see you there:)

And now, what I have made for this fine event:

Mini TaTa, a little mascot for the group! As you can see, Mini TaTa and her sisters have championed the disease and are celebrating their victories wearing boxing gloves, championship belt, and newly sprouted hair after going a few rounds with chemotherapy.

And some of you may recall the bouncing boobies from when the Plush Team was holding a Plushraiser for the Susan G. Komen Institute a couple of years ago. Well, they're back! Yes, they really bounce, and they will be for sale individually or by the pair, whatever your preference may be.

The proceeds from these items will go to Team Ta-Tas, and I will have these pieces listed in my etsy shop soon as well.

A little, possibly unneccesary, explanation of what I'm up to. Or not up to, as the case may be.

2011-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

So, I've been on a bit of a plush hiatus. I was starting to get anxiety attacks whenever I sat down to my dear machine, so I knew something had to give. The timing of this wasn't ideal, but perhaps not a surprise. I had signed myself up for 4 shows in June alone, and June is already a bit of a madhouse for me, what with the boy and the manchild BOTH having birthdays, along with 5 other members of the family, plus Father's Day, PLUS both kids being home with me all day long on summer break. What has resulted has been a general melee of Abby attempting to do too much too fast and thus the pressure cooker that is my head.

Lately I've been getting that sinking feeling.

For those of you who don't know, I have Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD. I was diagnosed 4 1/2 years ago, but I'm fairly certain I've had it since at least high school. I am almost constantly experiencing some level of anxiety in my body, and it manifests itself in all sorts of interesting ways when I don't give it healthier outlets. One of the scarier ways it rears its ugly head is in the dreaded migraine. I'll save you some of the gorier details of this, but for me a migraine means a minimum of 4 hours of being completely out of commission, and up to a week of feeling lethargic and vulnerable to a rebound attack. I have had three in the past year, all of them right before a craft show. The last one was a little over a week ago, before a night time show down on Fountain Square. Luckily for me, I have a husband who loves the indie craft show scene, and has stepped in for me all three times to peddle the plush in my stead.

But clearly something needs to change, and so I cancelled my last show this month and don't have another scheduled until August, giving me a chance to regroup and reevaluate. I'm catching up on some orders I hadn't been giving proper attention. Once I'm caught up I'd like to focus on restocking the two shops I'm currently working with, perhaps approaching a third I've heard might like to do business with me. My poor etsy shop was looking a bit neglected, so I'm slowly giving it some love as well.

Sometimes I feel I'm too small too fill what I see as enormous shoes.

I'm reading books. I'm spending time with my kids. I've put away the piles and piles of work waiting to be sewn so I don't feel overwhelmed, and instead I've actually made myself a little dress this week, and have a couple of other personal projects I'd like to do. I'm making gifts for a few unsuspecting folks, which is something else I've had on my to-do list for ages. Workouts were beginning to get dropped, which is very bad as exercise is key to keeping my anxiety down and has been my replacement for the anti-anxiety meds I weaned myself off of in February. So cardio is getting factored in again, and yoga needs to be in the mix as well. I've dropped taking classes, which I've loathed doing, but need to at least resume my yoga practice at home.

The hardest part of all of this is feeling like I've had to retreat, like I've admitted some sort of defeat and ducked away with my head between my tails. I don't ever like to concede I have limits, that I'm not up to a task, so to say it's time to back down is painful for me. I want to be all things to everyone all the time, which is not realistic at all. And it often results in me being too little to too few, primarily my kids and my husband.

I forget I'm just one person, not a team of people capable of lots of tasks at once.

I have known for awhile I have been struggling mightily with burn out. I was quickly losing all the joy in my work. What once was a very therapeutic activity for me was becoming the source for much of my anxiety. There needs to be a middle ground somewhere here, and I'm treading carefully to find it and do this all properly.

Added frustration comes in that I feel I am at the cusp of turning abbydid into a real full time job, a real business that truly contributes to my family's income. It has been more than a hobby for quite a long time, but has hovered in that limbo of almost being the real deal (at least in my mind) for awhile. But in reality, this is a one-woman show, with a very supportive husband and understanding kids, but still it's all on me. And abbydid is only going to be as good as Abby can do. This little biz has been built on my passion and love and quirkiness, and it has to be allowed it's own good time to grow and develop naturally. I can't hold myself to artificial standards, projecting what I believe success to be. I need to proceed carefully to be true to the spirit of abbydid, true to myself, true to my family.

Just breathe.

And so, I need to get my house in order. And by house, I mean my head. I can't beat myself up for struggling with GAD. I need to be forgiving of myself, accepting of my capabilities, and mindful of where I need to be. I saw this gorgeous dish on etsy the other day, and I think it sums things up nicely. Here it is:

Bowl by mb artstudios

Time to go to Crafty Supermarket

2011-05-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

The first 100 people in the door get an uber cool swag bag. Included in said bag - this badge made by yours truly:)

Cincinnati's indie craft scene has really been perking up, I'm delighted to say, and it's fantastic to see this town get excited about all things handmade. Far and away the queen of these craft shows in the 'nati is Crafty Supermarket. The trio of ladies who put this show together have done an outstanding job, again and again, of putting together the right mix of vendors (both local and regional), location, and promotional hype. The result is a busy, happy day of crowds that understand the value of handmade and are happy to support it. Good vibes abound!

125 of these suckers! Yes, that's how much I love me my Crafty Supermarket.

This Saturday, May 7th, from 11:00am to 6:00pm this event shall rise again to delight you with all that is crafty. And I SHALL BE THERE! RAWR! I have all sorts of new things to share with you, my darlings, and here's a sneak peak of a few of them.

LoRaffe - part giraffe, part lion, all charm.

Bot Bots - plushtronics

Kermuffle - a scarf with monster mitts

Teenie Tiny Wibbly Woos, just for the tooth fairy!

Arbuckle - the monster coffee cozy/armband.

All this and so much more! I've been working my little hiney off for this, my friends, from tweaking the signage to refilling the craftball machine to making the largest inventory of plush EVER. All of the old favorites will be there, too, not to worry. I made something just for you! Come and get it:)

New additions to the craftball machine. Doodads, let's call them.

Crafty Supermarket also happens to be Mother's Day Eve, and so Jason and the kids have been instructed to find me gifts at the show. I shall also find myself a gift, I am sure. And more than likely, it shall come from one of my pals also working at the show. Go by and say hi, these are some good people making great stuff, and I just love them to bits:

Lily in Flux - the coolest damn repurposed jewelry you will ever find. Fact. Lizz is the bomb. Also fact.

Nimmy Designs - Nikki is adorable, and makes such gorgeous adornments.

Paper Acorn - all paper, all wonderful. Jessica is the sweet sass behind these beautiful paperworks. Say hi:)

And last, but certainly not least, is The Lovely Teaspoon. Alicia takes kitsch to such delightful new levels. She is hilarious. And she is so freaking affordable, you'll be stocking up, I promise.

Oh, and so many, many, many more amazing vendors. I could go on for days. But I'll just stop here and assume you have the idea and trust you'll be coming out to see for yourself. Come early for the swag bags! People line up around the block, and they get there before I even show up to set up my table. We have some die hard fans for Supermarket:)

See you Saturday! I'm off to sew some more...

Craft Show Line Up - Spring and Summer, baby!

2011-04-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

I have this very moment finalized the dates and details of my craft show Spring/Summer season. And so now, my kittens, you pull out your calendars and mark down all of the delightful shows where you will be coming out and visiting me with your bright, shiny faces. Extra brownie points if you bring me refreshments.

And here we go:

MAY

Crafty Supermarket
Saturday, May 7, 2011, 11:00am-6:00pm
Clifton Cultural Arts Center
3711 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
craftysupermarket.wordpress.com/

*This is a favorite show of mine, primarily because it is such a great mix of people and indie craft at it's finest. A warning - it gets crowded. In my experience, afternoon is not quite so crazy, though that means you miss out on the 100 bags of free swag given to the first folks in the door. Of course, these folks will have been waiting outside for 1-2 hours for said swag, but I hear it is worth it:) This show gets a ton of press, deservedly. In the past I've had my work appear in Cincinnati Magazine and on the Fox19 morning news when they promoted it!

OTR Gateway Summer Celebration
Saturday, May 21, 2011 10:00 AM- 4:00PM
12th & Vine in Over-the-Rhine
Cincinnati, Ohio
www.otrgateway.com/

*Organized by the fine folks at Mica 12/v, this is a great show with live music in a hip corner of the Gateway Quarter in historic Over-the-Rhine. I've attended this fine festival, but never worked it as a vendor, so I'm excited to be a part of it. If I recall correctly, beer is available, just in case that sweetens the deal for you at all.

JUNE

The City Flea

Saturday, June 4, 11:00am-5:00pm

Central Parkway and Vine Street at the Cincinnatus Mural

Cincinnati, Ohio

http://www.thecityflea.com/

*This is a brand new event that's come to Cincinnati, and us Cincy craft folk have been abuzz over it. This will be a monthly event throughout the summer, and I will be in the first and last of these shows. The line up of vendors looks great, it's in an extremely cool spot (my high school art history teacher took us on a field trip to this very mural, I'll have you know!), and the couple organizing the show have done a bang up job.

Midwest Craft Caucus

Saturday and Sunday, June 4-5 (I will speak on Sunday, June 5th)

Economic Community Development Institute (ECDI) in Columbus, Ohio

http://www.midwestcraftcaucus.com/

*This is a weekend-long conference for us crafty folk trying to make a living off of our handmade goods. Columbus has a strong handmade scene, and so it makes perfect sense they'd organize such an amazingly resourceful series of lectures and discussion panels. I will be part of a discussion panel on Sunday, Working with Craft Collectives and Street Teams, to share my experiences as a member and leader of PlushTeam. Check back to their website for a finalized schedule of sessions and their times, it's not up quite yet.

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange

Saturday, June 11, 11:00am-8:00pm

The Harrison Center for the Arts
1505 North Delaware Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202

http://www.indieanahandicraftexchange.com/

*My first time as a vendor here! I've attended this show, way back when it was brand spanking new, and I really loved it. I was newly operating abbydid at the time and it was really inspirational to me to see such a fine array of handcrafters doing their thing. I hear it has really grown since then, I'm excited to check it out.

SEPTEMBER

The City Flea

Saturday, September 3, 11:00am-5:00pm

Central Parkway and Vine Street at the Cincinnatus Mural

Cincinnati, Ohio

http://www.thecityflea.com/

Mariemont Art and Craft Show

Sunday, September 11, 11:00am-5:00pm

US 50 (Wooster Pike - just west of Mariemont Village Square)

Cincinnati, Ohio

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=177649902274714

Westwood Art Show

Saturday, September 24, 10:00am-4:00pm

Westwood Town Hall

3017 Harrison Avenue

Cincinnati, Ohio

*Welcome to my hood. The West Side is great for many, many reasons, but hipness is not one of them. Having said that, I have found two craft shows on my side of town that I consider an absolute pleasure to be part of t his is DEFINITELY one of them! The old town hall is a lovely venue, the grounds around it perfect for a craft show, live music, and play areas for the kids. Amanda, the woman behind the show is probably the nicest person you will ever meet, and she is a indie crafter as well - here she is on etsy. Go show her some love, she deserves it. She works tirelessly to promote the Westwood community. She also looks dead on the Widow Garret from Deadwood. Just sayin'.

And there we have it! Clearly, I'm one busy bee. As you can see, I'm not traveling much this season, mainly keeping it local. As far as childcare and finances go, that just makes the most sense. I have so many new things I'm working on, I can't wait to share them with you! I so love the feedback I get when doing these shows, you are the folks who inspire me with new ideas and help me tweak the old ones. Feel free to shout ideas my way ahead of time! I'm working hard to make what I think you want to see at these shows, but if you have requests, I'm more than happy to hear them.

See you soon:)

Steampunk Challenge - the Steam-powered Sewing Machine

2011-04-13T12:13:00.001-07:00

As I've probably mentioned a million times, I'm a member of the PlushTeam. This international guild of plush artists comes up with a Team Challenge every couple of months to keep us on our toes and get those creative juices flowing. I try to participate in as many as possible, and occasionally I even win something as a result, but I always come away from it inspired and having tried something crazy, different, and out of my comfort zone.

And so, it is my pleasure to present to you my entry for the PlushTeam Stempunk Challenge (in the gadget category)- the entirely steam-powered sewing machine of the Victorian Age! Or at least what I imagine it probably looked like with that little abbydid spin tossed in.

Please visit www.plushteam.com the week of April 18-23 to VOTE for my Steampunk piece if you think it is the plush best exemplifying the glory of the Steampunk Era! Oh, and also, buy this piece and display it proudly for all to see! It's located in the PlushTeam Shop for your perusing and/or purchasing pleasure.

But, Abby, tell us more! This bad boy is made of hand sculpted foam core covered in a variety of up-cycled upholstery fabrics, sourced from leftover samples from interior decorators that were headed for the trash. Clock hands serve as sewing needles. Metal bobbins, a necklace chain, and the mechanics of a wind up duck make up the inner workings inside the panel. A pressure gauge accompanies some bobbins and doodads at the top. The side wheel is a faucet spigot.

Wait, did she say a wind up duck? And is that a duck foot I see in there? Why, yes, yes it is.

Measures 13"x9.5"x6.5", approximately the same size as a standard sewing machine. And that concludes our glimpse for the day into the oddly wondrous place that is my brain. Carry on:)

Have you met Big Bunny?

2011-03-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

Right, so, here's what happened. I was sort of bored and was wondering just how BIG I could make something. I set to work, and sometime in the wee hours late one Saturday night, Big Bunny was born. The next morning, I emerged from my den of slumber to find Big Bunny sitting on the couch, right where I had left him, only now he had two children draped around him. They declared we were keeping him, he was not for sale, and that was that.

The morning after. See that face? That face is saying, "you will take him away only over my dead body." We do not mess with her when she makes that face;)

So, Big Bunny is a member of the family. He is my mascot, and he comes with me to meet the people. But he is not for sale. We can talk about how you can get your own Big Bunny, if you like.

Our 2010 Christmas Card. Boy, Girl, Bunny. Not necessarily in that order.

Big Bunny is the strong, silent type. While he isn't much on words, he is an excellent snuggler, and everyone always seems happy to see him. Who can blame them? There is just an aura about him, just a happy, relaxed vibe. It's all good, as far as Big Bunny is concerned.


The Mascots at PlushTeam's Candyland Show. Big Bunny is accompanied by Tyler Poncho and Froderick.

I have more photos of Big Bunny hanging around town over at my flickr page, go check them out! And better yet, come meet him in person at one of my upcoming shows.

Speaking of, my craft show schedule is shaping up quite nicely, and I have some dates to announce:

The City of Wyoming's Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 16, 2011
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Along Wyoming Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio

Crafty Supermarket
(you know I love me my Supermarket!)
Saturday, May 7, 2011
11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Clifton Cultural Arts Center
3711 Clifton Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45220

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange
Saturday, June 11
12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m
The Harrison Center for the Arts1505 North Delaware Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202

That's it for now, kittens! I'm off on a weekend retreat with my sisters in plush-making - EIGHTEEN of us in a cabin in the mountains of Virginia!!! PLUSH RETREAT!!! WOOT!!! You can rest assured, you'll hear all about it ;)

When the Creative Juices Are Flowing -or- Biproducts of the Compulsively Crafty

2011-03-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

For us artsy folk there seems to be a cyclical effect to the creative process. We all go through slumps, and we all go through highs. Sometimes we are bursting with ideas. Sometimes we hate every damn thing we make. I know I go through this constantly. So I thought I'd explore this a little more, and share how I navigate my hills and valleys of drawing from one's imagination to keep things fresh and interesting.

The Craftball Machine - a REALLY good idea. Kids are powerless to resist it.

When I'm on my game, I know it. I feel good, my brain is whirring, I can literally feel the cogs turning and cranking out new ideas. At the pinnacle of this I am simply crackling with creativity, it feels like electricity is coarsing through me and I need to make things NOW. This is the very sweetest spot to be in, and alas, the most elusive. When I am in this rare space of euphoria I feel confident I can do no wrong, and I am the best damn artist on the planet.

The direct opposite of this is the dreaded SLUMP. Oh, how I hate the slump. Everything I make is crap. I don't have a single original idea in my head. Everything I've EVER made is crap. I am uninspired, trite, derivative, and I should just give up now and spare the world my efforts. This sad state of affairs is also extremely rare, thankfully, though it seems to coincide with being turned away from a show I really wanted to be a part of, or being declined from a magazine I sent my best work, etc. Rejection is an excellent entrance point to this downward spiral.

Pirate monkey always cheers me up when I need it. Want one of your own? Dingo Girl will hook you up, no problem.

Now, these two are obviously extremes, and if they were recurrent on a more regular basis I'm pretty sure I'd be bipolar. But as that is one of the few issues my therapist has NOT brought up in the laundry list of things I should be working on, I'm going to go on the assumption this is pretty normal.

What is the norm for me is somewhere in-between. Little moments of doubt creep in here and there. Days where i don't feel like making anything balance out days where I feel certain of the path I am following and want to see some results take shape. I hardly ever feel like I am being productive enough. It is often hard to stay focused. I want to check my email, see who's on facebook, browse etsy for things I can't afford. Anything but sit down and stay committed to the task at hand.

It is so easy to get caught up in too much at once.

I find my potholes seem to involve having too many projects going on at once. Sometimes I have so many ideas hitting me I am split into too many directions. That's currently where I am now. There are 7 projects on the sewing table waiting to be made, photographed, and listed in my shop. I have a huge challenge project for PlushTeam that is sort of percolating in a limbo state. I'm dying to experiment with resin and make bangle bracelets filled with good n' plenty candy. I'm in the process of making my Pullip doll a collage-covered dollhouse that has been taking up the coffee table for the better part of two weeks. I am too scattered and there isn't enough focus on any one project.

Tiling the roof of the house in paper samples and cereal boxes.

The solution when I get like this? Play music, and work on one project at a time so that I can see something finished and continue to move forward. Upbeat music really seems to keep me moving at a better pace. Occasionally, if I have quiet hand-work to do, I'll put in an audiobook. This runs the risk of me getting caught up in the story instead of focusing on the project, however. I mean, you really want to give Neil Gaiman your full attention, don't you? Another key to keeping focus is making to-do lists, sometimes with due dates. Open-ended projects are the easiest to let fall by the way-side. That must be why my first quilt is collecting dust and is perpetually unfinished. Also, keeping my space neat(ish) and tidy(ish) helps me feel less chaotic and scattered.

My work space is eclectic and inspiring, in my eyes.

But what to do if you have no ideas in that poor empty noggin? That's the worst, isn't it? For me, it's when I'm cluttered and distracted and anxiety is getting the best of me that I am truly constipated creatively. The hardest part of clearing the block is being motivated to do so. If I can defeat the apathy monster looming over me, if I get into a routine, meditate, lie in Shavasana after a really great yoga practice, that's when I will suddenly have the thunderbolt of an idea hit me again. It's like a rainfall after a long, dry spell. It's delicious, it makes the colors brighter all around me, and I can't wait to get my hands into my next project. And so the cycle begins again.

The cover to Sappho the sewing machine. She likes to travel in style!

One last note on rejection. I had this hit recently and it really got me down. My lovely friends rallied around me, gave me tons of advice, and assured me it was the rejecter's loss, not mine. So, I recommend having a lovely circle of friends as a support group to give you a nice pet as you lick your wounds. And you do have to give yourself a bit of a pity party when this happens. Give into it for a day or two, at most three, and then move on. Sure, being turned down sucked, but then I gave it some thought and realized I had so many other great opportunities surrounding me - one I had just finished (and I can't wait to tell you about when it's time), another that presented itself out of the blue - there will always be some yeses along with the nos. I do feel like princess-of-quite-a-lot lately and will just revel in that.

Creature Feature - LoRaffe

2011-03-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

Meet the LoRaffe. So noble a creature, and yet so ridiculous.

Ever wonder what a giraffe/lion hybrid would look like? Oh, come on, admit it, we all have! Well, I'm pretty sure it would look like this. I also think he would make a "mew" sound like a cute kitten.

The suspected lineage of the LoRaffe

This unlikely creature is most likely a result of a late night tryst between two members of my plush collection. Flowers the Lion (famous in his own right as a Las Vegas star), actually originates from England and is created by Raggy Rat. The lythe giraffe was lovingly made by Zfla of upcycled sweaters, and she hails from Los Angeles.

Caught! I KNEW it!
I would have never guessed mixing the various species of my collection would result in, well, plush making plush! But really, what other explanation could there be?

LoRaffe measures 11 inches tall. He is made of short pile minky, one is a tie dye pattern, the other is a funky, floral print. His wool felt face is completely hand embroidered, and that funky pom pom tail is handmade as well. Want a LoRaffe of your own? Of course you do! I'll look into starting a breeding program, and before long you'll be sure to see LoRaffes popping up in the shop.

The noble stance of the LoRaffe

Mardi Gras!

2011-03-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Fat Tuesday, everyone! The Wibbly Woos have been partying away, and I fully expect some very sorry plushes in the morning. I'll be applying cold compresses to lots of furry little foreheads come early Wednesday, I suspect.

This pair of jesters are available in my etsy shop.

This party girl is earning her beads!

I'm excited to make special-edition Wibbly Woos for lots of different holidays this year. Keep your eye out for more festive plushery. Have suggestions? Give a shout - I love it when you send inspiration my way!

The Creation Story -or- How I Came to Be

2011-03-04T07:34:00.000-08:00

It was suggested to me I write down how abbydid came to be, how my creative process works, that someone might enjoying reading this. At the very least, I would benefit from writing it down. Here goes.

I have always created things. I think most creative people will tell you they've always felt compelled to make things from an early age. The earliest I remember was as a 5 year old, writing, illustrating, and stapling together little books of stories. "The Penny" was an early title that makes hardly any sense now, but at the time I was really pleased with myself.

I also have very clear memories of the under-croft of my bunk bed. It was configured in an L shape, so that there was space for a little cave underneath, complete with a door just the right size for a child to enter and be ensured some privacy. I spent hours under there. It was my secret hideaway, and I recall cutting out dozens of paper butterflies, then hanging them with string from the ceiling of my cavern. I think any little girl who creates a butterfly garden in her secret hideaway is destined to craft professionally, don't you? Oh, most definitely.

So fast forward, a gazillion years later. There have been billions more art projects, some art training, some of the best provided by a dedicated trio of high school art teachers. But something happens in college. Faced with the prospect of declaring myself an artist, I freeze up. I become convinced I am not worthy of this field I idolize. I am not good enough. I am not passionate enough. I am simply not worthy. My self-deprecation and complete lack of confidence has long been an issue, but never to this degree. I drop out of my art major. Going into my photography professor's office to explain I'm quitting is excruciating. It doesn't help that I've fallen down a muddy hill on the way in, so I'm filthy on top of all the shame and humiliation I already feel. He does his damnedest to convince me to stay, to convince me I have talent, to convince me this is where I belong. I am heart broken, but nothing can quell the absolute certainty that I am just not good enough.

My lack of self-confidence was crippling for such a long time. And so this story is maybe not so much about my creative process as it is about learning I am a worthwhile human being. I am GOOD at what I do, I am GOOD ENOUGH as a person, and perfection is not the goal. Fear of failure haunts my family like a curse. My task has been to shake that curse, to face my fears head on, and to prove to myself just how capable I am. All of these things are necessary for a happy life and healthy being, but they are intrinsically joined with my creativity as well. To have the clarity to say this to you, the imaginary audience of the Ethernet, is one of the greatest gifts I've gained. I understand things so clearly now. I was in such a fog for so many years. It's a revelation to me.

And so. This girl I speak of wanders, lost, through college, trying majors on like hats, not feeling any of them suit, finally realizing she just needs to get the hell out of there, and completes an English degree in a single year. As luck would have it, I like English very much. Reading and writing, those are good things, so it works out fairly well. More aimless wandering occurs after graduation. The most glorious moments occur when I suddenly fall in love and get married. That is truly a story all its own, but I'll save that for another day.

I don't know what to do with myself. I end up quitting my job, saying (I swear to god) I'd like to make dolls. But I don't. I wander some more. I eventually have a baby, and he becomes my world. I am a domestic house cat now, taking care of my gorgeous son, doing little projects on the side, keeping our lives rolling (mostly) merrily along. But I continue creating all this time. I trying little projects out. I experiment. I decide any housewife worth her salt should know how to sew. I borrow my mother's Bernina sewing machine, the one she bought when she was pregnant with me. She shows me how to thread it, sew a straight line, and then I'm on my own. I play with that thing, look things up on the internet, try out some patterns. I do make a doll. My son hates it and kicks it away. So I try some other things instead. What I am discovering is the fluid nature of fabric, and the fusion of it with this old, dependable machine, is like magic to me. I adore the sculptural quality sewing fabric provides. I begin wondering.

Another baby comes along. This one is a spitfire of a little girl, diametrically opposed to the quiet, fair-colored son I adore. This darling is dark, like she's of a different race, and as loud as her brother is quiet. They are both extraordinary. As a side note, I realize I'm biased seeing as I am their mother, but two more amazing human beings could not have been placed on this planet. My focus becomes wholly on keeping these two small people alive. Enriching their lives, growing them, ensuring they have everything they need and even more that they don't, that becomes my full time job.

Some kids come out as carbon copies, mine, not so much.
I've had old ladies ask if they're both mine. Silly old ladies.

But then one day I'm watching some DIY show, and this is the confession part of the tale, because I would much rather say I was hit with a lightening bolt of creativity and just inspired to act all on my own. But I wasn't. I was fed the little seed of an idea when zoning out in front of the TV. It was a craft show (big surprise) and on this show they were making a pillow. It was big, it had a pocket in the front, and in an effort to give it a little personality, this denim thing was given two button eyes. I got to thinking. Gears started turning. I mean, literally, you could almost see the machinery whirring in my head. I mean, sure, that's nice, but what you could REALLY do with it, what would REALLY be great was if it had arms and legs, and it was soft and snuggly, and it should be a creature with teeth, horns...

Well, if you know me at all, you have some idea of where this is going. I drew up a pattern, the first I had ever tried, and after much thought of construction, I gave it a go. I made a few big versions of this creature, a bunch more in a smaller size, and gave them out as Christmas gifts. I went online and started googling monster names. Wikipedia gave me a list of mythical creatures. One of them stuck in my head.

And that was the birth of the Wibbly Woo.

The very first Wibbly Woos - they look so primitive now!
We've come a long way, baby.

Now, I mentioned I married the love of my life a little earlier. He really is amazing. I mean, don't tell him I said that, because I really don't like him to think he has the upper hand in this relationship, but I do adore him. This thoughtful man saw that I was onto something. He had the confidence I didn't. I had never had the confidence, and I had never had the perspective of who I am and what I'm capable of. But he did.

Christmas morning, 2007. We're in a new house now. Again, a long story for another time. But It and I are entwined in very complicated ways, and it has been a tough year for me adjusting to life in it. Discovering a creative outlet, tentatively exploring what it could bring, those are some of the first glimmers of light we've seen in me in quite awhile. So what does this dear man do?

He gives me a sewing machine. And not just any sewing machine. He has researched it, gone to the store and talked to salesmen, ensured I have the best possible machine we can afford, or really, pretend to afford. And it is GLORIOUS. It is a Husqvarna Viking, a Sapphire model. I name things, so I named her Sappho. I always sort of dug Sappho, the poet from ancient Greece, and so there we were. I put the incredible thing on the dining room table and circled it suspiciously for several weeks. Eventually, I finally turn her on, learn her ways, and get to work. She's been there ever since, except for when she travels with me, and that room has long since stopped being the dining room.

What my husband did was express to me, with the grandest gift I've ever been given, his complete confidence that I could make things people wanted. I could share my creations with the world, and they would be loved. He demonstrated to me with that extraordinary machine he knew I was up to the challenge, that I was worthy of this gift, and that I could take it in directions I hadn't dared dream of before.

And while I felt unworthy and crippled with self-doubt, what was stronger than all that was the desire to not let him down. I opened my little etsy shop a few weeks later, in late January of 2008. I was on the front page within 2 days of opening, had my first 2 sales. My confidence was budding. I was accepted into Plush Team, an etsy street team of plush artists from around the world, that spring. I was now part of a guild of talented individuals who supplied unending amounts of support and inspiration. These people are my family.

I had come home. And now I'm tearing up a little, because this has been such a journey for me, kittens. I was so scared and so injured for so very long. But the more I create, the more I embrace who I am, the closer to my truth I become. In the grand scheme of things, I'm not saving the world, exactly, I know that. But I am true to myself, and I bring such joy to my customers. It is such a privilege they grant me, letting my creations into their lives. The support I receive from my customers, from my fellow artists, from people passing by my tent at a show, it feeds my soul in such extraordinary ways I never dreamed possible.

My biggest accomplishment since that Christmas morning 3 years ago? I call myself an artist now. I am an artist. I own that, I know what I am, I know it is who I am meant to be. For the first time in my life, I have an idea that I am an extraordinary person, capable of great things, and I am eager to strive for that each day. I may be a little crabby along the way, but really, let's take what we can get, shall we?

Thanks for letting me ramble, imaginary reader. Thank you for letting me send this out into the ethos and set it free. It's been locked up in my heart for a long time, and it was time to let it out. Thank you.

Show Schedule for October, November, December

2010-10-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share where you can find me live and in person for the remainder of the year!

First up, we have the last outdoor event of the year; the Harvest Festival at St. Clare's Convent in Hartwell. If this is your first visit to the Centennial Barn and the surrounding grounds, you are in for a treat. The convent is holding this event to celebrate its expanded community garden and urban farm. There will be a free petting zoo and hayrides throughout the day, as well as crafters, artists, and produce farmers selling their goods. Can you think of a better way to celebrate Fall? Neither can I.

Harvest Festival
Saturday, October 23rd
10:00am - 6:00pm
110 Compton Road, located on the border between Hartwell and Wyoming
http://www.centennialbarn.org/

November is a busy, busy month. You ready?

First up is Oddmall. That's right, I'm heading North to Hudson, Ohio (a stone's throw from Cleveland) to take part in one of my favorite shows. This is my first time taking part in their Holiday show, dubbed Chrishanukwanzmadan, and it is sure to be outstanding. Not only do I love the folks who run this show (event coordinator Andy Hopp is the artist responsible for the charming fellow below), but they have a very special guest who will be gracing us with her presence - April Winchell, the notorious wit behind Regretsy. Ooh, I'm getting excited just thinking about it!

Oddmall
Saturday, Novemer 6th

10:00am - 6:00pm

Clarion Hotel and Conference Center (Akron area)
240 East Hines Hills Road, Hudson, Ohio 44236

http://www.oddmall.info/

The very next weekend, I'm on my home turf at Dater Montessori's 2nd annual Craft Show & Sale. This is Miss Kallisto's school, and I love doing my part to support it. I'm currently teaching a Monster Making class as part of the After School Enrichment Program, and some of my students will be working their Girl Scout table, raising funds for their troop with their crafts. We are thrilled to be in our gorgeous remodeled building, now one of the most enviromentally-minded schools in Ohio! Come check it out and support a wonderful community of lovely folks.

The Dater Community Craft Show & Sale
Saturday, November 13
11:00am - 5:00pm
2840 Boudinot Avenue, Cincinnati Ohio, 45238
http://datermontessori.cps-k12.org/news_and_events/

To wrap up my craft show marathon, I'll be at Crafty Supermarket the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This is a show I am enormously proud to be a part of. It is located in the Clifton Cultural Art Center in the gaslight district in Clifton, formerly Clifton School. This is a fun, old building that is filled with the very best indie craft show Cincinnati has to offer. This show is NOT to be missed! This is the same show I was featured in Cincinnati Magazine for earlier this year. There will be food vendors, a live DJ, and over 50 fabulous craft vendors. Really. Be there. The first 100 in the door get free bags o' swag, and the line starts forming early!

Crafty Supermarket
Saturday, November 20th
(mere days from my 35th birthday, so come buy me something :)
11:00am - 6:00pm
3711 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati Ohio 45220
http://craftysupermarket.wordpress.com/

After 3 shows in 3 weeks, I will retreat to my brother's apartment in Brooklyn for Thanksgiving and to wonder how I got so damn old.

Now on to December. I will be part of the Northside Art Sale in the ever hip and happening neighborhood of Northside. This will be my first time participating in the Holiday edition of this show, and I'm looking forward to it being indoors! The monsoon that suddenly swept over us at the summer show tested my children's' patience for their mother's chosen profession, for sure. I can't tell you how often I've heard, "but Mommy, I don't like outdoor shows!" since then. So, yay for indoors. Suck it up kids. I digress.

Northside Holiday Art Sale
Saturday, December 4
10:00am - 3:00pm
North Presbyterian Church
4222 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=87560106441&v=info

That's it for now, kittens. If other shows pop up that appeal to me and fit in my schedule, I'll be sure to let you know. I am very picky about the shows I take part in. It is important to me to participate in shows that support great neighborhoods and communities I am proud to be a part of. I also work hard to find independently-minded craft shows, the ones with artists that think outside of the box, push the boundaries of the craftworld, and are up-and-coming artists. If I'm taking part in a show, it's not to make a quick buck, it's because I believe whole-heartedly in the people involved in it. So come show your support! We create our art because of the passion we feel for what we do. We are driven to create, we can't help it. So if you come and buy it, we get to go home and make more!

And there, my friends, is the beauty of buying handmade.

PlushTeam Las Vegas Challenge - Neon Sign Category

2010-08-16T15:50:00.000-07:00

PlushTeam is at it again! For those of you who are unaware of the sheer awesomeness that is the PlushTeam, let me fill you in. The Etsy Plush Street Team, or PlushTeam for short, is an international guild of plush artists. Amazing as it may seem, there's more of me out there, 50+ of us, in fact, and this incredible team of supportive, inspirational, creative, brilliant, and hilarious artists has been a major source of strength for me these past few years.

Every few months the Team comes up with a fun challenge to get people to push our creative boundaries, to inspire us, and to just get us laughing. These challenges are often ways to get us to try something completely new, and that could not be more true for me this time around!

This challenge was inspired by Vegas, Baby! All aspects of Vegas - performer, casinos, signage, you name it, we were to take what Las Vegas meant to us and run with it. This has resulted in some really crazy entries, and you'll have to go the the PlushTeam blog to check them all out (which is weirder, boobs on chicken or boobs on toast? you decide!), but today I'll show you what came out of my noggin and pin-pricked hands.

Sometimes we make bad choices...

For the PlushTeam Las Vegas Challenge, I chose to enter the Neon Sign category and go with something I know Vegas is famous for - the quickie wedding.

A dirty martini can help facilitate making bad choices.

Nothing reeks of a Vegas wedding like the 24 hour, drive-thru wedding chapel with an Elvis on hand to conduct the ceremony, right? If I had it all to do over again, I'd forgo all that classy expensive nonsense and do it right!

Sometime glitz and glamour distracts our sensibilities.

What we have here is a very large 18"x22"x6"; pillow made of velvet, lamé, and the funkiest trim I could find. I mean, really - tassels, pom-poms and crystals - this pillow is practically a show girl! The neon is cording covered in lamé and painstakingly hand stitched onto the velvet. The backside is, you guessed it, more shiny, irridescent lamé.

Why is it every Team challenge I make something that looks like boobs?

Neon signs in the night often attract
bad choices like moths to the flame.

The pillow does not actually glow in the dark. If you are not familiar with lame', it is an extremely shiny material like you might see in dancers' costumes. It is extraordinarily reflective, giving the shot with the extra long exposure the look that it is really lighting up.

"P" stands for prenup!

This was a ridiculously funky and fun challenge. Thanks for checking out my piece (which is available for purchase here and is available at a very special Vegas Wedding price), and to see more of my work go to www.abbydid.etsy.com .

Upcoming Shows

2010-08-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

As usual, I've been neglecting the blog. Bad Abby.

Anywho, I have a couple of Cincinnati shows coming up that are in neighborhoods I just love, and would be ever so touched if you came and cuddled some of my plush:)

First up is the Covedale Arts and Crafts Fair at the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts. This will take place on Saturday, August 21st from 10am until 4pm. You won't miss me, I'll be the one in the parking lot in the fantabulous tent with the monster banner;)

Back in the day, this was a movie theater, and I remember having my dad drop me and my friends off to watch one of the two movies they would be offering. I remember dragging two girlfriends to see Robert Downey Jr. in the Pickup Artist, thinking it was about an artist. Well, turns out it was, but not about any artist my little 12 year old brain understood at the time. And there you have a glimpse into the miseducation of Abby.

Next up will be the Westwood Art Show, presented by the Westwood Town Hall Recreation Center. This will be taking place on Saturday, September 18th from 10am until 4pm. There will be wine tastings thanks to Henke Winery, music, food and drink vendors, and lots of local artists (say, about 40 of us) selling their handcrafted goods to you, our legions of adoring fans.

Westwood Town Hall, in all her glory.

I just wrapped up a happy, hot summer of Second Sunday shows in Over-the-Rhine, and look who stopped by - Mayor Mallory! It was lovely to meet him, and I was flattered he chose my booth to visit. Of course, he didn't have much choice, Jason pretty much shoved him in so as to get a photo op;)

Mayor Mark Mallory wonders what he's gotten himself into.

I made a big bunny. The kids won't let me sell him
(seems he's been taken in as a sibling),
but he likes to come along to meet the people.

Can you guess which one is my tent? I bet you can't:)

So, my kittens, that's all I have for you today. Please come out and visit me if you can, if not, go *like* me at my facebook page, where I'm much more active than I am here on the blog, and of course, buy up all of my plushes and provide them with good homes here at the etsy shop. Cheers!

Go Get Stuffed!

2010-07-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Plush Team is ecstatic to present to you our first ever Team Annual, containing 120 pages of plushy goodness!

What is in store for you upon opening this marvelous book:

An opening by our team founder, Megan Green, describing how our team came to be.
An insightful, informative, and all-around fascinating account of the history of plush craft by our team co-founder Christina Ward.
42 two-page, full color features of our Plush Team members. Each includes photos of the artist's work, and text written by the artist explaining motivation, process, and inspiration.
A time line of Plush Team activities through over the years.Profile pages providing a comprehensive list of Plush Team artists, including artist head shots and Etsy shop addresses.
Photos of PT Stitchy, the team mascot, scattered throughout the book in his various incarnations as interpreted by our team members.

The book is full color, professionally printed, and soft cover. It measures 6.75"x6.75" (or 17 centimeters square). This is volume 1 of our Team Annual, featuring the artists from 2009. Our intent is to make this a yearly publication, updating it each year with our newest members and their incredible work.

Visit the Team Shop today for your copy!

BP Oil Clean Up Solution - Save the Beaches!

2010-06-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

The Wisconsin-based textile company Monterey Mills has a big heart - they were one of our generous donors at Maker Faire. They've proposed to BP a huge improvement to the booms being used to soak up oil from the water in the Gulf, but their proposal has gotten lost in the tens of thousands of suggestions BP has received, and BP has yet to respond. Check out this amazing demonstration of what wool can do, then spread the word until BP can hear us.

Come one, come all to the ODDMALL!

2010-04-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

Oh, boy, am I excited about this one! Oddmall, Emporium of the Weird (and really, do I need to say more?) is NEXT WEEKEND!!!! That's right, I'm the kind of mom that gets her kicks on Mother's Day weekend by peddling her plushy wares in Hudson, Ohio, home of this oddly fabulous craft show. Andy Hopp is the mastermind behind this extravaganza, and we are smitten with him and his gorgeous family. This will be the show's 3rd appearance, and my 2nd time participating.

You are nearly peeing in your pants with excitement, I can tell, but wait! There is MORE.

The Itsy Bitsy Spider and Yummy Pancake, two members of our very own PlushTeam, will be there as well! This is my first time meeting both these gorgeous ladies in person and I can barely contain my excitement. We'll be working a corner of Room 1 (specifically, booths 18, 19, and 21) so come join us in our day long hilarity.

Brody and Kalli will be selling their pet rocks again, and maybe pet furballs, too. Jason will probably be wearing his "crafty girls get me hot" tee shirt. I will almost certainly say something outrageously inappropriate before the day is through.

Once you've stocked up on all of your plush needs, saunter on over to Mary Moons Designs, because you have simply lived too long without one of her adorable bags. This sassy, lovely lady is so fun, you'll be delighted you stopped by.

and don't forget Space Dog Studios, where the divine miss Sarah will fix you up right with your handmade book needs. Seriously, this is the good stuff!

2010-04-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is the Crafty Supermarket! I am so thrilled about this event, and I'm going to tell you why. First off, I'm a vendor, and I will be bringing all of my very best plush, designed and sewn by yours truly. But it doesn't end there - this craft fair is a big step for Cincinnati. For years we have had two categories of craft show: the country craft show your grandma attended, and the artsy fairs that were classy, wine drinking affairs. Nothing wrong with either of those, but not quite my style.

This, my dear friends, is an indie craft show. The goods at this event will have a bit more edge, be a lot more hip, be made by funky, eclectic folk who have their own, unique ways of expressing themselves. Here you will find fun twists on all sorts of things you never knew you needed. Need hand grenade soap? I thought you did. How about lego earrings for that special someone? You'll need a card to go with that. Oh, and Mother's Day is coming up, I bet your mama would appreciate some upcycled bling. And after after all of the fun you've had at the Crafty Supermarket you should definitely write down all your thoughts and feelings.

There is so much more fabulousness at this show I might just pee myself! Here is the full vendor list.

Details: This Saturday, the 17th of April

11am - 6pm

The Clifton Cultural Center

(the old Clifton School building)

3711 Clifton Avenue

MAP

I made something just for you, so come and get it!

Cutting Frenzy

2010-03-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

I finally reached the point where I had finished making everything I owed to customers or to folks I was trading with, and I had gone through all of the precut critters I had stowed away, and my fingers were itching to wrap around those scissors and dive into my hoard of fur. So, for the past few days I have been busy cutting - stockpiling monsters and animals and even fleece sugar cookies that will accompany them as snacks - all ready to be sewn and assembled when the time comes.

I have 4 big craft shows coming up in the next few months (more on that another day) and this is the first step in preparing. As each month goes by, abbydid seems to creep closer and closer towards a full time job, and my aspirations for what I can produce before these shows creep up may be a bit too high. But, worst case scenario, I'll have these "critter kits" ready to go after the shows to restock the shop as needed.

Fleece and faux fur are my primary materials. Fleece is easy and forgiving. Faux fur - especially the shaggy, long pile variety - prevents it's own set of challenges. I vacuum constantly. I vacuum each cut piece of a pattern before I bag it, and then vacuum the entire cutting area in between each variety of fur I use to avoid "cross contamination." And inevitably I am covered in the stuff. I laugh at lint rollers. I have to vacuum myself before heading out the door. The UPS man will attest to the fact that whenever I open the door for a package I'm covered in some new color of hair. He must think I have some strange-looking pets (speaking of, that's my dog Kismet).

Once critters are cut, with all their contrasting or accenting pieces accompanying them, I bag them up and get them out of the way. It's fun to go back to these bags and pull out a creature to begin working on it, only to be surprised by what color combinations I was dreaming up the day he was cut out. Admittedly, there have been a couple of instances of "what was I thinking," in which case I may switch out some claws or limbs.

Meanwhile, while I am sequestered in my dining room (aka The Work Space), Roomba is next door tidying up the living room. I found this guy on clearance for half off. While he is just a glorified dustbuster on wheels, Roomba is better than nothing, and I love that he merrily rolls along while I make fuschia monkeys and stripey Wibbly Woos a reality. This is my view through the windows of the dining room. See Roomba? Way to go, Roomba! Keep up the good work.

Schmancy Olympic Challenge

2010-03-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Towards the end of January Plush You!, the annual plush exhibition put on by Schmancy, put out a challenge to the plush world: make a plush in one of 4 categories reflecting the Winter Olympic Games. Well, I do love a good challenge! I signed up immediately. My assigned category was Opening Ceremonies.

What resulted was a torch with mischievous little flames, each light up, and they even have their own Olympic torch in which to do their impish dance.

I would have gotten more outdoor shots but my reluctant model needed to pee.

The battery-operated "tea lights" are surrounded in sheer fabrics and "stuffed" with bubble wrap. The little smirking faces are embroidered on using red, metallic thread and iridecent beads for eyes.

The completely hand-stitched torch is made of stiff interfacing and fleece, with a felt Olympic rings emblem adhered to it with fabric glue.

With the Olympics just coming to a close and the Paralympics about to begin, I know we all feel the warmth of the pride and emotion of the games. I will be submitting this piece to Plush You! for judging, so wish me luck! The torch and it's 6 merry flames are available in my shop.

The never-ending holidays...

2010-01-07T08:59:00.000-08:00

My beloved etsy street team - PlushTeam - has been having it's annual Secret Santa Plush Swap, and I received my nifty neato gift yesterday. Hooray!

Since us plush makers are uber busy during the holiday season, we chose to host our swap after Christmas to give us a chance to breathe a little. Plus who doesn't look forward to getting a gift after all the festivities are over? Exactly. As it turns out, Christmas is traditionally celebrated on January 7th (today!), and so I say to you 'S Rozhdestvom! I don't know what it means, but I'm told that what they say to each other over there today. I'm sure it's something delightful.

Silly me, I thought it would be a good idea to introduce our darling newcomers, sent by the fantastic LittleCritters00, to the latest batch of knucklebiters. I could not have been more wrong! Thinking they would play nicely, I turned my back for just a second, and when I returned orange nubby knucklebiter was SNACKING on little red fuzzy dude! Oh, the HORROR.

Well, I reprimanded nubby orange knucklebiter, explaining we do NOT eat our new friends, and he has since been sent to live with a new family in Pennsylvania. I wish them luck!

Meanwhile, my gift to my Secret Santa Recipient is en route, I think she'll probably receive it today. I am soooo excited! Here's a sneak peak:

I have the very best customers.

2009-12-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

One of the many joys I've discovered running abbydid are the darling customers I meet. Sometimes a friend becomes a customer, sometimes a customer becomes a friend, but regardless, I have never have a negative transaction. I am extremely thankful for that, and am aware that not everyone is so lucky.

One of the glories of this little job of mine is the custom order. It is so much fun to make something with someone specific in mind. I piece the fabric together imagining the smile it will bring to that certain someone's face. It's totally hokey, I know, but this is my way of bringing a little more joy to the planet.

I have one custom order in particular I'd like to share with you. My dear friend Nancy has the most creative son Jack. He has created a super hero, complete with his own blog. She asked me to turn a drawing Jack had done of this super hero, Zebra Talker, into a plush to give him as a Christmas gift.

I finished him last night. What do you think?

The work I do is so much fun - I really enjoy it. But this piece was extra special. I can't wait to hear how Jack reacts!

If you have a drawing you'd like to see soft and squeezable, give me a shout. I LOVE a challenge!

2009-12-15T15:58:00.000-08:00

I've been busy busy busy with the plushmaking, and clearly I have not been blogging. Bad Abby. Anyway, I have a plethora of ideas rolling around in my head, and one of them was absolutely bursting to get out. So here it is:

Why, Abby, what is that? I'm so glad you asked! It is a MONSTER MUFF! I KNOW! So fun. Our gorgeous model (whom I also made, thank you very much) is sporting the latest style for the winter season. It is a large knucklebiter, fully lined in fur, filled with extra batting for warmth. You place one hand in its mouth, and the other hand, well, let's just say monster muff really doesn't mind.

The important thing here is you will be WARM and you will be having FUN and you will be the ENVY OF ALL YOUR FRIENDS! These come in adult (with the tail forming a wrist strap) and child (with a silky cord to wear around the neck to prevent muff loss). Look for them in my etsy shop after Christmas has passed or place a custom order for one now!

PS - I fully realize muff is a loaded term for some of you (you dirty, dirty birds) so here's the deal - come up with a better name for this sucker and I will gladly rename it and give you all the credit. Until then, snicker quietly to yourself. Sheesh.

2009-10-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

Know where all the cool kids are going to be this Saturday? At the 5th annual Craftin' Outlaws alternative craft fair! And you know who's going to be selling their alternative crafts at this fancy shindig? ME! That's right! The hubs and I are packing up the van with all our furry, little friends and heading to Columbus, Ohio and we fully expect to see you there.

This ridiculously fun event will take place at a new location this year - the Lodge Bar located at 165 Vine Street in the Arena District. Admission is free, and it is open to all ages. There will be ridiculously fun activities throughout the day. A craft corner deathmatch? Seriously, who's going to miss that?

I've donated a Wibbly Woo to Craftin' Outlaws fundraiser for Rwanda Knits, an extremely deserving organization that provides American-made knitting machines, technical and business training to Rwandan women to enable them to increase their incomes through economically sustainable knitting cooperatives. Learn more at http://www.rwandaknits.org

PlushTeam wants to save the boobs!

2009-10-02T06:03:00.000-07:00

These fleece-covered bouncy balls really do bounce, yes indeedy.

"She has a silk dress and healthy breasts that bounce on his Italian leather sofa."

- Italian Leather Sofa by Cake

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and to raise funds and awareness about this insidious disease, the members of PlushTeam have created mammary-themed plush. They can be purchased at the PlushTeam shop, and 80% of every purchase goes to the Susan G. Komen Institute. Check out PlushTeam's blog to read more about all the fabulous creations.

Okay, now, kiddies, I know you're all going to be disappointed, but the bouncy boobies have already sold and are on their way to California. But! If you sweet talk me I may just make another pair:) It is for a good cause after all. Perhaps a different skin tone this time? Hmmm...

I won't grow up...

2009-09-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

There's a new craze circulating around the PlushTeam, and I've caught it. Seems the uber-adorable Pullip dolls and the less adorable Blythe dolls are being collected by lots of my sewing besties, so naturally I had to have one, too.

Not familiar? Find them here:

Valley of the Dolls

Right. So now you've checked out the link, and you, too, are in love with the fabulous Pullip. I mean, okay, I know people are gaga over Blythe, too, but I personally just don't get Blythe, at least not the way I do Pullip. So my apologies to the Blythe-lovers. I'm a Pullip girl.

Long story short, she arrived a few days ago and we instantly hit it off.

Isn't she sweet? She's the Kaela model, with short, purplish hair. Jason, the hubs, said she's the Pixar version of me, which was just the cutest compliment ever. I wasn't too fond of the outfit she came with so I tossed together this super quick frock and had her pose on my beloved sewing machine.

Her name is Maybe. She's the noncommittal, fly-by-the-seat of her pants, free spirit sort. My little noggin is swimming with ideas for furniture and outfits, so prepare yourself for pictures of her in fun little setting wearing fun little ensembles.

Feel like so...

Feel a little naked...

2009-09-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

It's been a few weeks, and I was sort of bashful about it, but the show is up! I suppose it's hard for me to expose so much of myself to the world, as these pieces are extremely personal to me. It's like "Dear Diary, today I will let every stranger who happens by to open the little door to my soul and have a looksee." There's also the not-so-small issue of me not wanting to, well, toot my own horn.

Having said that, I am extremely proud of my work. The opening was a wonderful success, the kids behaved themselves, and I loved seeing my old piece I made back in college. It was like meeting an old friend again after a decade and a half. Seeing my former self hanging up there on the wall was quite surreal.

Here, for your enjoyment, is the rest of the artist statement giving you some idea of what the hell you are looking at:

When reading Moby-Dick, your average young woman may initially struggle in finding a character with whom she may relate. The novel is seriously lacking in anyone of the female persuasion. But it wasn’t long before I did find a character that spoke to me – Queequeg. This strong, mysterious figure, covered in tattoos and carrying shrunken heads, offering food to a small wooden idol in his room at the inn, well, I was smitten. What intrigued me most about this cannibal prince of the Pacific Islands were the tattoos covering his body. They were described as “a living parchment…a riddle to unfold.” In Chapter 110, Queequeg in his Coffin, they are further explained: “a departed prophet and seer of his island…had written out on his a complete theory of the heavens and the earth, and a mystical treatise on the art of attaining truth.”

This made me wonder, what would my coffin lid look like? What are my theories of heaven and earth, and how do I go about attaining my own truth? These questions led me to create a series of body casts, my own snug-fitting coffin lids, at different points of my life. “Queequeg in Her Coffin” is the first cast that was made. Here you see a sophomore in college, just starting out into adulthood, wondering who she is and what life has in store for her. Her arms are crossed in a slightly self-conscious manner, and the writing that covers her is barely legible, as if these truths and theories have only begun to take shape in this girl’s mind. The writing includes journaling, poetry, passages from Moby-Dick, as well as pieces from literature that made impressions on this artist.

“Life Buoy” is the most recent body cast in the series. The girl has grown up, has married, and is producing a child. Much as Queequeg’s coffin became a life saving vessel for Ishmael, my body served as a life-giving vessel for my daughter Kallisto. Her name originates in mythology; the nymph Kallisto is turned into a bear, and then is flung into the night sky, creating Ursa Major. Her constellation is depicted on the front of the cast. On the reverse is a collage of images, some of my daughter. I then covered it in writing. Some of it is journaling, where I recall the tumultuous ocean of a pregnancy this life buoy carried us through. I also include the retelling of her name, a passage from Moby Dick, the introduction from “Letter to My Daughter” by Maya Angelou, and other bits and pieces of my life as a mother of a very sassy little daughter.

Chasing the whale...

2009-08-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

Well, took me a little longer than I thought to get back to this. And so it goes.

There's an exhibit opening this friday: "Chasing the Whale in Northern Kentucky: Local Artists Respond to Moby-Dick." The show runs August 14 through October 9, 2009 at Gallerie Zaum in Newport, Kentucky. I have three pieces on display, and I am awfully proud of them all. If you feel like swinging by the opening is from 6pm til 9pm and my old professor Dr. Wallace, the curator of this fine exhibit, will be giving a lecture.

Meet Yojo, he'll be one of the pieces on display. An excerpt from my artist's statement:

My final piece in this exhibit is Yojo. When I am not driving my son to soccer practice or assisting my daughter with a potty emergency, I am working as a plush artist. I always wanted to be a mother, but after a few years of being a full time parent I realized my creative juices had all but dried up. I was losing focus of who I was as an individual amidst the all-consuming responsibilities of rearing these two small individuals. But then I taught myself to sew. I have never felt so happy or at home in an art medium as I do with fabric, its fluidity has such sculptural qualities. This little talisman, in his way, represents this art that I worship and sacrifice towards, all in order to bring my ideas into this physical world.

I feel a little brain dead this morning, and I think after more coffee and a quick labotomy I'll be right as rain. I'll post pics of the other two pieces sometime this week. Now for that coffee...

Nice to meet you, thanks for coming.

2009-08-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

My new year's resolution, one of them anyway, was to get off my arse and finally start a blog. Everyone, their brother, and their dog is writing a blog, so I'm a little late to the party, but better late than never, right? So, to all you invisible, possibly imaginary readers out there, welcome to the insight into the slightly off brain of yours truly. Bare with me, it's bound to be a little rough at first as I poke things with sticks to see how they work, and find my voice which is a little rusty with lack of use.

I'll start by posting my artist's statement for a show I'm a part of. Actually, I'm going to list it a little later today after I feed the kids their lunch. Here's the thing with kids - they require feeding THREE TIMES A DAY. Outrageous! High maintenance, these kids.

So, where was I? Oh, right. The show. I'm in an exhibition of artists responding to the novel Moby-Dick by Herman Melville. I have three pieces in the show, and I was asked to write an artist's statement and have it in by today. Know when I started the piece? This morning. But it's not too shabby, if I do say so myself, and I'd like to share it with you. But first, feeding time.