Naturally lovely

So I spent some time in Boston this weekend and it was great. Very cold but great. And it got me thinking about my love of nature and how I am so inspired by it.

For example, when I was in London for a week this fall, I was really inspired by the properness of it all, the intellectual attitude and the unabashed coolness. I wish I could be those things when I get dressed in the morning!

I'll be honest, the only reason I wanted to write this post is so I can share some pics from this weekend and my London trip. I think they are having a huge impact on the stuff I create. Whimsy, natural, and just pretty is what I am going for and am hoping to get cohesive ideas in the process.




England




Boston

I planning on doing more with natural headbands. Which are kind of represented here in these photos. Much like my Silver Whimsy Headband.



I haven't had time to work on any personal projects the last week, although I do have a list for when I finally get to go to the store for some supplies.

• A piece of neutral scrapbook paper to mat photos
• Thick knitting needles to start a cowl with some great yarn I've been saving
• Look at the thrift store for some wool sweaters for felted mittens
• Create pattern for LOVE banner over bed

Another snow storm headed my way..so perhaps I'll have time to finish some stuff after all!

i heart winter

So its been a few days since I posted anything, but I have been busy enjoying a lovely white New England winter. I went cross country skiing for the first time this last weekend! I've never been on skis before so it was interesting. I fell down a few times, was sore, but loved being out in the snow. I also took a road trip to Vermont on Sunday with a friend. I had never been to Vermont and have now been to all the New England states. We visited the Ben and Jerry's factory, ate Cabot cheese samples and drank hot cider on the beautiful snowy ride home.

I have to say that I've grown to really love winter over the last few years. There is something fresh and inspiring about it. I think the cold air, bare trees, and the snow really makes you think clearly. I love working on projects in the winter because you basically have to be inside because of the cold, but it's so pretty to look out the window...it makes me want to create pretty things. Plus, I have this weird love of the color grey... which is basically the color scheme of winter!

I finished my project I mentioned earlier, the frame turned necklace holder. However, it didn't turn out as planned. The tacks wouldn't stay in the board, so I use it as a earring holder and it looks great.


Plus I've been updating my Etsy shop with new headbands. I have been thinking about a pretty color scheme of grey (of course), light blush pink, and soft gold for the winter/spring season.



The Sweet Peach Headband


Well thats all for now... I'm planning to enjoy this snowy day and get some projects done!

Since there is a big snow storm coming, it seems like the perfect time to settle in with some hot tea and put a dent in this list.

1. Revive my etsy shop (www.lucillejean.etsy.com)
2. Start a blog for my etsy shop
3. Experiment more (lace making anyone?!)
4. Explore more (New England has so many interesting places)
5. Dress up
6. Find a job that will pay my bills




I'm still working on the focus of my shop, a work in progress you might say. I love vintage, especially the 30s, 40s and 50s. I have a few vintage jewelry pieces and even some vintage clothing but I'm not sure I want to do that. I love making things. I started with headbands but have had some trouble selling them. Thankfully my friends are so supportive and have bought a few. Jewelry is not my favorite to make but people seem to like it. I guess I'll have to keep working and see what happens. Although I'm up for suggestions and advice from anyone!



Today I am working on a pair of felted mittens for my sister. I discovered felting recently and used a grey Ralph Lauren wool sweater to try it out. Don't worry, the sweater was second hand and was very boxy. My first pair worked well, so I'm excited to make more and add some cute vintage buttons. Will post pictures when finished!