Though I work most days alone in my studio (without music or sound - I have enough going on in my head already!), I do enjoy creating with others for the sheer spark of inspiration I receive. Everyone approaches a project differently…and even though the materials at hand are all similar, the results are always so different. It really is one of the joys for me of teaching workshops. The chalkboard in my workshop studio where I hold my classes sums it up nicely…Art + Fun = Yes!

I had two sessions of my Scrap Collage workshop in September. Using scraps of paper and a bit of glue, it was amazing what these women produced.

Every time I come away with at least one “ah-ha” moment….”why didn’t I think of that?!” Its the beauty of the synergy of the group…everyone chimes in with their suggestion when someone is stuck…everyone offers their praise of whatever the end result is. The fact that you came, you dove in with unabashed enthusiasm (mmm…I serve wine at my workshops…could that be it?") and you left with something you made with your own two hands proves that you are creative - that is why I teach.

I know that not everyone can attend my workshops nor have the chance to explore my studio in person…but I have two avenues for those of you who live in distant places…

First off - I am honored to be included in the Oct/Nov/Dec 2019 issue of Where Women Create.

This magazine, spearheaded by Jo Packham, celebrates the creative spaces of women everywhere. My article showcases my workshop and home as well as sharing some of the creative rituals I use in approaching my work. The magazine is available at bookstores in the US (Barnes & Noble I know for sure) as well as available for sale on Where Women Create website. I know that those of you who live outside of the US are moaning under your breath since they don’t ship international…but if you go to their website and look under the magazine review section, you can at least get a peek of the articles in the current issue.

Second - I know that I’ve received requests to do online classes…at this point, I just don’t see that happening. But I had a personal “ah-ha” moment myself last week…

I used to post a fair number of tutorials on my former blog, four corners design. They were inventive projects that used recycled materials in unique ways, giving step by step instructions…why couldn’t I offer that to those of you who can’t personally join me in creating together? So - here it it -

There’s a section on my website titled Tutorials where you will find a dozen (yes, 12 of them) projects with a link to my former blog for each project with directions. I realize that you’ll miss out on the synergy of creating at a workshop with others…but feel free to add your own glass of wine for enthusiastic mojo.

And for those of you who are within striking distance of Everett…I’m offering my Collage Paperweight workshop on Saturday, November 2. Using a glass coaster as the foundation, you’ll design a unique treasure that could be a holiday gift for a special someone. Details and registration for the workshop are on my website under the Calendar section.

Just one more thing…I know, this newsletter is getting rather long…but mark your calendar…our Annual Holiday Studio Sale is set for Saturday, November 23…not to be missed…