Owing to the indisposition of the author of Craftmodo, we are drafting in another writer.

Our new author, Duncan Cairncross, is well-versed in crafts and is also an artist, book and web designer. We look forward to a change of emphasis and a new voice for Craftmodo.

John Evans
Syntagma Media

If the kids are stuck inside during a summer rainstorm (turn off the computer if it is a thunder and lightning storm, by the way) and are whining about being bored, try this Web site.  Consider it a form of a kid’s craft on the computer.  It is a great way to explore art through the National Gallery of Art and it could be a great way to inspire the kids on with a real paintbrush and paints. 

It’s an easy and fun site to navigate and spend some time on.  Just start clicking!  Then the interactive art can begin and who knows?  You may find yourself at the art store later picking up all kinds of supplies for your future Picasso.

NGA Kids - Adventures in Art

Creativity is the fuel that drives the crafter. It is an expression of ideas that brew about in our heads. Sometimes the creativity well runs dry though, and a little help is necessary. Other times it is fun to see what other people have created and expand our own ideas. “The Creative Life,” is a television show, with a corresponding Web site, that features everything from traditional crafting to the new recycled art so popular today.  

‘The Creative Life’ is your new one-stop show for step-by-step how-to segments and tips and techniques for creating unique items for the home. From decorative painting to building, gardening to cooking, sewing to home decor and everything in between, Cheryl does it all, and takes you on location as she explores every nook and cranny of ‘The Creative Life.’
The Creative Life Web Site

“The Creative Life” presents not only ideas but free patterns on the Web site.  If you have been unaware of this show, you can also find the PBS scheduling so you can watch the production in your local area.  You can also see different clips from the show.  For the crafter, “The Creative Life” is a “creative” approach to crafting that will be become a useful resource.

The Creative Life 

I covered Katherine Lee’s “Fabulous & Flirty Crochet,” not too long ago.  It is a great book.  If you have a copy, you should get it signed.  And if you don’t, you have a chance to pick up a signed copy at two different trunk shows in the Los Angeles area.  And get one for a friend - this would make a wonderful gift.

Come to a Book Signing/Trunk Show at my local Barnes & Noble at the Grove/Farmer’s Market shopping center at 3rd & Fairfax!

Come meet me on Thursday, July 13th, at 7:30pm.

The booksigning will be held on the 3rd floor of this nice, big Barnes & Noble.

All of the samples will be available for you to see.

Children are welcome. Have a bite to eat at the Farmer’s Market (we love Moishe’s for Middle Eastern and the Loteria Grill has a fabulous mole sauce!) or one of the great restaurants at the Grove after the signing for a fun summer evening!

The Bonita Knitting Store is a beautiful shop offering fine yarns, classes, books, and free afternoon tea!

Come meet me on Saturday, July 15th, from noon to 4pm.

I’ll be signing books, showing all of the projects, and helping at the free crocheting (and knitting) clinic that they have every Saturday from 2-4pm. There will be light refreshments, a raffle, and more!

More On Fabulous & Flirty Trunk Shows

Review on Fabulous & Flirty