SpiritMama Art and Soul

VW Van Sock Monkey Cake Topper

2012-01-24T07:45:00.000-06:00

I just finished this custom made wedding cake topper with a bride and groom on VW Van with a dachshund and guitar. I used their wedding date as the license plate number.

It was so fun and they look so happy! I think I will add this style as a regular shop listing.

I always give the monkeys heart shaped tails in back.

Thanks for stopping by!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

New Paintings!

2012-01-06T09:38:00.000-06:00

I've been painting and LOVING every minute of it!

"Ascension"

"Reflection Tree"

I'm going to schedule painting into my weekly agenda between cake toppers, I can't wait to do some more!

Blessings,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T09:22:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about 2012 and the wonderful things to come!!! This year is sure to bring adventure and loads of creativity.

I added so many new styles of cake toppers to my shop in 2011, and I know there will be many more unique sculptures coming this year.

I have also started painting again. I was so inspired to paint during the week after Christmas that I completed two paintings in one week! That is a record for me. I'll post soon with pictures of my paintings!

Happy New Year, may you be blessed with your deepest heart's desires in 2012!

~ Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

ArtsLIVE feature

2011-11-10T08:57:00.001-06:00

I am the featured artist on the ArtsLIVE website. ArtsLIVE is a nonprofit partnership of arts venues, organizations and leaders promoting the arts in and beyond Northwest Iowa.

See feature here!

New Website!

2011-11-09T13:46:00.000-06:00

I'm excited to announce my new website at

"SpiritMama.com"!

It is a work in progress, and I will be refining it now that it is live. My web designer, Anitra Wolf of Blue Lake Websites did a fantastic job, and she taught me how to add my own content, which means it will be a work in progress for a long time to come!

Blog Feature

2011-10-27T12:20:00.000-05:00

THANK YOU to Courtney Jo of "The Everything Soap Blog" for doing a SpiritMama feature today!

See the feature here!

I Love October!

2011-10-08T08:55:00.000-05:00

October is one of my favorite months! I love how the leaves change color, the air crispens up, pumpkin patches open and Halloween is on the horizon.

Here is what I've been up to this month:

The whole family went to Poppe's Pumpkin Patch in Lakefield, MN last weekend. It was beautiful and the kids had so much fun running around, picking pumpkins, playing with the goats, and they even have a corn maze!

Here are some cake toppers I've made this month:

This is a Christmas ornament with a child. It can be modified to have another child, or only one adult.

Available in my etsy shop: Sock Monkey Santa Family

It's always fun to get a Day of the Dead cake topper order, and this one has a skeletal cat, so fun!

Have a great October, and if you are in a seasonal climate, enjoy the beautiful colors of Fall.

Thanks for stopping by,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

The Winner is...

2011-09-17T10:09:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who voted and entered!

I used the Random Number Generator to find the winner, and the winner is

SHEN, with vote #2798.

Congrats Shen, you can use the $50.00 toward any item in my shop, or I would be happy to make something just for you!

Blog GIVEAWAY! My ART for your VOTE!

2011-09-12T14:04:00.001-05:00

My ART for your VOTE Giveaway!!!

My husband just quit a very secure paying job to follow his passion for business coaching, and these are uncertain times to quit a stable job, but really making a career out of your dream is priceless (as we all know as artists), and this contest could not have come at a better time.

What we need is your vote in this contest. If he wins he gets $5,000 to put into his business, and the opportunity to double that by competing at state level :-)
We are very close to first place, so I'm getting creative to get you to vote!

(please read all instructions below first)
Vote Link:

http://www.myentre.net/busProfile/tabid/95/Default.aspx?entry=425

What am I giving away?

$50.00 in SpiritMama Bucks for you to use on anything in my shop! You can put it toward something that is already made, or I can make a custom item for you, a Christmas ornament, a cake topper, jewelry or anything else you can think of.

Visit my shop here.

How to win?

The contest is going on now, and ends Friday, 9/16/11 at 11:59 pm

You can enter each time you place a vote, the rules are that each person can vote in the contest one time per day. That means you yourself can only enter once, and there is a limit of 1 vote per entry, per day by computer network.

But you can have a chance to win each time you get someone else to vote, just follow the steps below to enter my giveaway as many times as you want each day through 9/16! Call and email the link to your friends and family and enter every time they vote, be sure to get the number of their vote (see below)!

On Saturday 9/17/11 I will count the entries and use Random Number Generator to choose a winner from the voters who left comments.

Winner will be announced in the afternoon on 9/17/11.

How to enter:

Click HERE to vote

You will see a place to enter your email address and verify a code. Don't worry, they won't send you email.

Take note of the number of votes in the section just below the VOTE section.

Comment on this post to get a chance to win the gift certificate.

You must report the number of your vote in your comment for it to count!
*Important- be sure you leave your email or that it is in your blogger profile so I can contact you if you win.

Thank you!!!
xoxox
Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Day of the Dead Art "Viva La Vida"

2011-08-20T07:47:00.000-05:00

I have so much fun making Day of the Dead sculptures, so I decided to try a framed relief sculpture.

"Viva La Vida" is a relief portrait of a skeleton couple in celebration of "Dia de los Muertos", or "Day of the Dead". It can be hung all year or just saved for that special time of year.

"Viva La Vida" means 'Live Life' or 'Live The Life', and is an expression used to celebrate life.

If your space is craving a little color, this framed art piece will spice it up! It is a 5x7 frame, which measures 6.5" x 8.5" total. The characters are sculpted from polymer clay. The frame is turquoise and from Ikea.

I can do custom made portraits of couples, families, and pets. Just write to ask me for a quote. This piece is available here. See my shop for more fun art!

Thanks for stopping by!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Sock Monkey Santas with Heart Wedding Cake Topper or Ornament

2011-08-10T08:20:00.000-05:00

I am working on some holiday themed sock monkey ornaments for my etsy shop. This is the first one has two monkeys in Santa hats holding a heart. The heart can be customized with names and a date.

See my etsy shop to get your own!

Day of the Dead Wedding Cake Topper

2011-08-05T11:41:00.000-05:00

One of my very favorite things to sculpt is Day of the Dead portraits and cake toppers. I just had the opportunity to do one for an upcoming October wedding. What a fun way to get into the Halloween Spirit!

Want your own Day of the Dead themed portrait?

You can get one and read more about them here in my shop.

Thanks for stopping by!

Waxéla (wa-shay-la)

A Few of My Latest Cake Toppers

2011-05-21T14:59:00.000-05:00

Here is some of what I've been up to:

Many more to come, that's all I have edited so far.

Thanks for stopping by!!!

xoxo

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Sail Away with Me!

2011-05-11T13:07:00.000-05:00

Pictures of my latest sailboat sock monkey cake topper!

SpiritMama's photostream

2011-04-15T19:09:00.001-05:00

SpiritMama's photostream on Flickr.

I'm trying out the Flickr Blogger ap with some of my recent photos!

Remembering Bliss

2011-04-06T13:21:00.001-05:00

I finished an art doll, woohoo!

It has been so long, and I've been working on this one since December! I finally finished her today. She is inspired by Gustav Klimt's painting Mother and Child. I really just wanted to capture a posture and feeling that I get from Mother and Child.

I named it Remembering Bliss because I hope that it will take the viewer into a blissful moment in life.

It could be an embrace from a mother, a lover,

Holding a child close to your heart,

or a cherished moment, any moment of bliss or sacredness.

This is Gustav Klimt's painting:

Thank you for stopping by!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Sock Monkeys on a Tandem Bicycle Wedding Cake Topper

2011-04-02T07:58:00.000-05:00

When I got an order for a wedding cake topper with a bride and groom riding a tandem bike, I knew I had a fun challenge ahead. Making the bike was challenge number one. It took three tries, but I finally did it.

The next problem was balancing the monkeys on the bike, and getting the bike to stand securely on its own. I finally decided to use wires covered by "grass" supporting two of the bike pedals.

The end result was worth all of the work, and getting it to its destination required lots and lots of bubble wrap, plus double boxing.

Thanks for riding by!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

I Love Cake Pictures!

2011-03-15T10:21:00.000-05:00

I just love it when a customer sends me cake pictures!

Yesterday I got a couple of pictures from a Cat in the Hat themed party with a cake topper that I made.

This style is available in my ArtFire shop.

Twins

2011-03-03T08:23:00.000-06:00

What could be better than one baby sock monkey?

Two baby sock monkeys on a first birthday cake topper for twins!

OWOH Look What I Won!!!

2011-03-02T15:58:00.001-06:00

What is the best part about the end of OWOH (one world one heart blog event)???

Receiving the wonderful prizes you have won, of course!

I was the lucky winner of these amazingly wonderful goodies:

This is the cutest little book about journaling I won from Marcia of Vivid Layers.
Thank you Marcia!!!

Kathy of Calkat the Jewelry Junkie and Ametista sent me this stunning three-strand citrine and pearl necklace with a citrine and amethyst sterling pendant...it is so gorgeous and I can't wait to wear it!

Thank you Kathy!!!

And last (but in no way least)

Meet FELICITY!

Felicity is a wonderful little handmade soft doll by Pam from Yoborobo. Thank you so much Pam, I adore her!!!

I love Day of the Dead dolls, and just look at her body, it is printed with ghosts, tombstones, and black cats.

It didn't take long to find out that Felicity loves the camera.

Here she is posing with one of my little birthday monkeys. She jumped in his photo shoot just before I packaged him up.

Felicity found her home under my Feti tree. She has fun making the feti giggle and she tickles the flower fairies with her macabre humor.

Thank you for stopping by and letting me show off my booty, hehe!

I hope you were a winner too.

OWOH the winner is...

2011-02-17T13:30:00.001-06:00

Thanks so much to all of you who have left me such nice comments over the last few weeks. I can't believe there are over 300 comments on my OWOH post!

I just used Random.org to choose a winner, and the number is 40.

Congrats to Paper Bagley aka"Tootsie". I just sent her an email to let her know.

Wasn't this fun???

A Few of My Latest Cake Toppers

2011-02-17T08:54:00.000-06:00

One World One Heart 2011

2011-01-30T20:00:00.001-06:00

OWOH is here, hurray!

It's the beloved Lisa Swifka's 5th annual One World One Heart Giveaway,

read all about it here.

List of participants here

My name is Waxela (wa-shay-la), and I have always been an artist. I make art dolls and sock monkey cake toppers, among other things. I have two kids, a toddler and a teen. I never know who is going to have the next tantrum...my toddler, my teen, or me! Occasionally my husband has a meltdown too, but usually he's picking up the pieces and putting us all back together.

I'm so happy to share this fun event with you and to offer a little something I made.

My door prize is a One World One Heart mixed media fairy that I made especially for this event:

She can be hung on a wall and has a plush body, polymer clay face, arms, and legs, and laminated paper wings, and a beaded wand.

She will be flying to the winner with a package of 4 heart fabric covered buttons which I covered, and a polymer clay textured heart which I also made.

The drawing is open to all bloggers.

If you would like to be included in my giveaway drawing, please leave a comment on this post and be sure I can reach you through your blog or leave your email address.

The sign up ends on Feb. 17th at midnight. On Feb 18th I will randomly choose a winner and post the name on my blog. (I will email the winner too).

I would like it if you include a link to your OWOH post if you are participating so I can visit your blog too!

(it is not mandatory, though)

Thank you for visiting,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Beach Destination Wedding Time!

2011-01-11T22:18:00.000-06:00

Beach Destination Weddings are popular this time of year. I can't think of a better way to escape the cold winter weather than by running to a lovely tropical island to get married!!!

photo copyright Hal Jurcik Photography

I have added several new beach style wedding toppers to my Sock Monkey Wedding topper collection this year, and they have been a big hit.

Look at this cake!

photo copyright Hal Jurcik Photography

Here is one I just finished:

The colors are red and turquoise and they go so well with the ocean.

Thank you for visiting, and I hope you are staying warm this winter.

Warm Blessings,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper with Peacock Feathers

2010-12-11T09:56:00.000-06:00

When I got an order for a sock monkey wedding cake topper that needed to incorporate calla lilies, hydrangea, and peacock feathers I was a little stuck. The feathers needed to be subtle enough not to overwhelm the monkeys, but there is nothing subtle about peacock feathers!

I kept cutting them down and repositioning them until I felt good about it. I used gold clay with green mica powder in the base to give it a shimmery look to match the feathers.

I received pictures from the wedding yesterday, and I have to say WOW, what a beautiful cake!

And just look at the gorgeous bride and groom:

All photos are copyright Rick Pham Photography.

Free Tip for Craft Show Vendors

2010-12-08T12:08:00.000-06:00

If you are an artist, like me, and if you take your work to shows, like I do, I have a great tip for you!

You know those parents who bring their kids to the show and let them run free, grabbing and poking at whatever they like while Mom and Dad chat and browse? Yeah, I bet you know them all too well!

At my last show I came up with a brilliant solution to the art-molestation problem. I took a cute little vintage frog cup I had found at an antique shop. I filled it up with dum-dums (little suckers) and I topped it off with two little sock monkey cupcake toppers which peeked out over the dum-dums.

I placed the frog and it's child-enticing contents next to my checkout area (just out of the reach of children), and each time a grabby child visited my booth I offered a dum-dum. Now the child has a treat, AND she has to hold on to it with one hand. This usually solved the problem 100%, however in one or two especially grabby cases I offered TWO dum-dums, one for each hand, and that did the trick.

I realize some parents might not like their children to be offered candy, I'm one of them, but if parents can't keep their children's hands busy...I will!

Have a fun and prosperous holiday season,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

2010-12-01T12:37:00.000-06:00

I had a great time this week working on this 3" sculpture of a black and tan Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

His name is "Buck" and his owner says

"Buck is just the sweetest guy! He's friendly, gentle, cooperative, he's just a great dog."

Here is a picture of the real Buck:

Cyber Monday SALE!

2010-11-26T11:28:00.001-06:00

Hello blogger friends!

I woke up this morning and decided to have my own spontaneous Cyber Monday SALE, just for my blog readers!

It's good for 10% off ANY purchase in my shop!

This will only be good through CYBER MONDAY, so act fast!

To get your discount, just type SPECIAL10 in the coupon code box at checkout.

Thank you!!!!!

Flower Fairies

2010-11-20T13:59:00.000-06:00

I've been having so much fun making these!

They will be landing in my shop soon!

SpiritMama shop

Sophia Art Doll

2010-10-24T22:20:00.000-05:00

I just finished Sophia, a new one of a kind art doll. All of her clothing is vintage and antique fabric. Her head, bust, arms, and boots are sculpted.

Sophia is free standing. Her body had a wire and fabric armature.

I found an antique powder puff cover at an estate sale recently and I used pieces of it for her jacket, and there were flowers on top which I put in her hair and one on the front of her jacket.

Thanks for visiting!

The Best Job

2010-10-11T15:42:00.000-05:00

The best job I can think of is one that I get to design for myself using my best talents.

This job would be fun, inspiring, creative, lucrative... oh, and I would also get to work at home on my own hours, and be my own boss.

Well guess what, that IS my job. I feel very blessed.

Here is a bit of my work week in pictures:

Twin Monkeys First Birthday Cake Topper

2010-10-01T14:15:00.000-05:00

The "Cute Factor" was bumped up in my studio this week when I received an order to make a twin monkey birthday cake topper for two cute little guys who will be turning 1 this month.

This is a new face style for me because they were to look just like the monkeys on the party invite.

I can't show you the invite because it has their names and address, but I think I did a pretty good job, and I was smiling all week as I worked on them.

I like them so much that I will be adding a "twin birthday monkey cake topper" listing in this style to my Etsy shop soon.

Thanks for stopping by!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Wedding Cake Topper: Sock Monkeys on a Boat

2010-09-12T14:59:00.001-05:00

I got such a fun order recently from a bride who wanted to have her cake topper include:

The bride wearing

a hot pink bikini with white polka dots,

a veil,

sunglasses,

and propped up on one arm gazing back at the groom.

Groom

sitting at the back of the boat with

a fishing pole,

camouflage swim trunks,

sunglasses,

and gazing at the bride.

I gave the groom a fish on the end of his pole too. I left them as individual pieces instead of attaching them to the boat, which makes them poseable. The wood Boat is by MountaineerCountry on Etsy.

Autumn Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper Update

2010-08-18T20:46:00.000-05:00

Well the summer is flying by, school is about to resume, and people are planning their fall and winter weddings.

We were in the middle of a 1200 mile move during tax time last April, so we got an extension. But guess what...time's up, and the taxes must be reported. I spent all day crunching numbers (my least favorite activity).

Now it's time for a blog reprieve and a glass of wine.

Cheers to all of the Autumn wedding couples out there!

I'll be making your cake toppers next week.

Monarch Butterfly Hatching

2010-08-03T21:08:00.000-05:00

I spent my childhood summers catching insects, frogs, turtles, salamanders, toads, minnows, and the occasional snake. I still have some of that curious little explorer in me, so when I found a tiny monarch catapillar a few weeks ago I was delighted at the idea of watching the amazing metamorphosis happen before my eyes.

I was a diligent caretaker, bringing fresh milkweed leaves to my growing caterpillar every day.

The payoff happened on the morning when I woke to find the chrysalis about to break open. I took it outside, and this is what I saw...

Here I transferred it to a flower in my front yard.

I caught it's first flight...

and its first landing...

Dragonfly

2010-08-01T15:42:00.001-05:00

This beautiful dragonfly landed at my doorstep, where it apparently took its last breath, leaving me with a very nice photo op!

I love watching this type of dragonfly fly. They have clear parts of their wings so when they are hovering only the black and white areas show.

Little Prince First Birthday Cake Topper

2010-07-31T07:49:00.001-05:00

The Little Prince is a well known children's book which was originally written in French.

I read it with my daughter when she was about 8.

I'll admit we really didn't understand what was going on a lot of the time.

But I still enjoyed the book, and I recently saw some Lil' Prince party supplies for first birthday boys.

I just had to make a little prince cake topper to match!

I love making my sock monkey cake toppers, but this was a real treat, and clothing are always fun too.

You will find him in my shop:
Little Prince Here!

Frida Kahlo Sock Monkey Art Doll

2010-07-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

In honor of Frida Kahlo's birthday ADO team had a Frida art doll challenge this month.

In keeping with my sock monkey theme (and because I had an extra monkey sitting in my studio) I made a Frida Kahlo sock monkey art doll.

Yes, I know it's off the wall, but isn't everything about Frida that way? Somehow it fits.

Frida Monkey is holding a little bird, symbolic of her free spirit.

Frida Monkey is one of a kind, and she is for sale HERE in my Etsy shop.

Alice in Wonderland ADO Blog Event

2010-07-08T15:39:00.000-05:00

I tumbled down the rabbit hole with Alice...

She was more than a little confused when she came to the end...

or was it the beginning?

The White Rabbit with the stop watch seemed to know something,

but he was hard to catch up with.

Finally Alice caught his attention.

"Excuse me, sir, but could you tell me where I am?" she inquired.

"Well, wouldn't we all like to know the answer to that" he sputtered.

"Lean in closer, I'll tell you a secret..."

And just like that, he whispered something into Alice's ear, then he hopped away.

What was the secret?

Well, I couldn't quite hear, but it might have been that this is ADO Team's

WONDERLAND Blog Event!

You can hop along to all of the participating doll artist's blogs and see what each artist has made.

See you in Wonderland!

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper Update

2010-07-07T14:54:00.000-05:00

I've had some really fun sock monkey wedding cake topper orders lately, including a groom monkey in a tux vest (above), and some toppers with really elaborate flowers (below). The sock monkey fun never stops around here!

Thanks for visiting!

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Gabriel Gets Some Berries

2010-06-28T13:59:00.000-05:00

Wow, there sure are a lot of Mulberries on that tree!

Mama and Daddy say I can't eat the ones that are on the ground.

They sure are fun to stomp on though!

What do you mean I've had enough mulberries?

I was just getting started.

Mini Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Toppers

2010-06-13T08:36:00.000-05:00

My cupcake sized sock monkey wedding cake toppers are one of my best sellers. They are just 2 inches tall, and they can also be used as a holiday ornament after the cake has been eaten.

Here are a few I've done lately.

A Perfect Morning Walk

2010-06-12T09:42:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a perfect day here on the wetlands of NW Iowa. I took Gabriel out for a stroll, and we were greeted by a little painted turtle in our driveway. That was perfect because I ran in and got my camera. Now I can take you on our walk too!

The deep spring air was mildly damp and humid. It had rained the day before, and the moistness caused the scent of honeysuckle and alyssum flowers to linger in the air, making me feel as giddy as if I had drunk sweet wine.

A fanatical bird was perched on the Quail Hollow street sign squawking at us as if we had invaded it's territory.

We headed down the nature trail and a light wind gave me shivers. Not because it was cold, it was pleasantly warm, and the delicate breeze felt like feathers caressing my bare arms.

I was delighted to see the Boysenberries are ripening!

Gabriel fell asleep on the way home. I got a shot of our street...

and more turtles!

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Toppers

2010-06-10T17:27:00.000-05:00

I've been making lots of custom sock monkey wedding cake toppers lately.

The sitting style has been popular.

I'm giving all of them heart shaped tails now.

I just love the idea that these are making people smile at weddings all over the US, Canada, and even a few in Europe!

Baby Robin and Gabriel

2010-06-08T11:12:00.000-05:00

We recently had a nest of robins right under our top deck, above our walk out basement, and right above my studio window. We loved that we could peek through the boards and see the eggs!

We watched as they hatched and became tiny chirping balls of fuzz. We watched the parents bring them lots of yummy insects and worms. We watched as they got bigger and perched on the side of the nest looking down at the world around them. And we were lucky enough to be home when they were learning how to fly.

One of the babies perched on our patio swing and wasn't bothered a bit by us coming out for a closer look.

Gabriel was enchanted with this cute little chirping creature.

He wanted to give it a ride on the swing.

Mama Robin was waiting nearby with a yummy snack for her brave little baby.

Monkey Business Cake Topper Art Dolls

2010-05-16T07:47:00.002-05:00

What would I get if I combined my love for art dolls, sock monkeys, and cake toppers?

SpiritMama Shop

There are some adorable new sock monkey party supplies available called "Monkey Business Sock Monkey". They have napkins, plates, party invitations, and wrapping paper. The color scheme is lime green, red, orange, and chocolate:

I have had some customer requests for matching cake toppers, so I started with this:

First Birthday

Then I got more creative and made this 5" tall (seated) art doll/ cake topper:

Big Monkey

He was so much fun to make I decided to do a small 3" version too:

Mini Monkey

You can visit the listings or purchase the monkeys or the plates by clicking on the pictures.

My Latest Beach Destination Wedding Cake Topper

2010-05-12T18:01:00.000-05:00

I love it when couples who are going to the beach for their wedding want a sock monkey cake topper, they're so fun to create!

New Home

2010-04-26T17:17:00.000-05:00

I've been absent from blogland for awhile during my move from Austin, TX to Okoboji, IA.

We are getting all settled in and we have a great home on the wetlands with lots of wildlife.

These Canada Geese are grazing right in my backyard.

Mama Goose built her nest right in front of my studio window.

This is a view from our patio deck. I can't wait to see the goslings!

Here are some newly hatched ducklings and a Canada Goose, another view from our patio deck.

I will share pictures of the wildlife in the wetlands often, and I've been inspired to do a series of wetland dolls. I just completed my first one, but that's for another post.

My Deep Dark Little Secret...

2010-04-02T20:52:00.002-05:00

I've been hiding something.... keeping something from all of you because it's weird.

Some of you will probably find it offensive.

Some of you will say "She is much freakier than I guessed."

And a select few will laugh out loud and say "That Rocks"!

Cheers to those of you in the 3rd category!

I have a shop on Etsy called "Feti".

It is full of little embryo ornaments made of polymer clay.

Some are in the likeness of rock stars (Adam Lambert),

others are political figures (Sarah Palin),

and some are characters from the Twilight series.

ONE is a pair of conjoined twins called "Tiny Twins", and they have made their way into

the REGRETSY book

by April Winchell

coming out this month.

I feel very honored to be one of 50 artists who's work is shocking enough to be featured in this little book of horrors! If you have not visited Regretsy, please do so asap, and go back often for your daily laughs, giggles, and guffaws.

Tree Goddess Tapestry Winner Announced

2010-03-17T14:38:00.000-05:00

Today is the day I announce the winner of my Beaded tree Goddess Tapestry!

I used Random Number Generator to find a number between 1 and 172 (the number of followers of my blog). The number it gave me was 53, and Paula Brinkman, of "Spirit Dolls By Paula" is my 53rd follower.

Congrats Paula!

Thank you to all of my blog followers.

I will do another giveaway this year, so keep visiting!

Goddess Tree Beaded Tapestry Giveaway!

2010-03-11T14:08:00.001-06:00

I promised a giveaway to my followers, and this is it!

It is a beaded tapestry, which I made entirely from upcycled furniture sample pieces. The tapestry has a Nile Goddess in a tree, and depicts two of my favorite things...the Nile River Goddess and trees. I used seed and bugle beads to enhance the goddess and leaves.

It has a sleeve at the back to run a small dowel through so it can hang on your wall.

This giveaway is open to all of my followers. All you have to do is be a follower of my blog. I will choose a winner randomly on March 18th. You must become a follower by Wednesday, March 17th at 11:59pm to be included in the giveaway.

Good Luck!

xxxooo

Waxela

Mod Monkey Party Cake Toppers

2010-03-11T13:50:00.000-06:00

Wow, I haven't blogged in forever, but I am in the middle of a move, and my house is on the market so it has to be spotless, WHILE living in it with a TODDLER and a 12 year old. My hubby cleans up after himself pretty well (as long as he closes lid, lol!)

I made some new monkeys yesterday. They are "Mod Monkeys" in honor of all of the mod monkey party supplies out there. I've been asked to do yellow and turquoise numerous times, and I just love these little birthday partiers!

A Special Treat For You! MC Yogi - Give Love

2010-02-27T18:11:00.000-06:00

I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE THIS!

MC Yogi - Give Love (Giving4Living Mix) from MC Yogi on Vimeo.

Enjoy!

And the winner is...

2010-02-15T08:27:00.000-06:00

I just used Random Number Generator to choose a winner for the OWOH giveaway, and the winner of Alistair is...

Malisa from Moonlight Hollow!

Congrats Malisa, and thank you so much to all who entered! I'll have a giveaway for my followers very soon.
(2/15/10)

Beach Wedding Sock Monkey Cake Topper

2010-02-05T11:10:00.001-06:00

I'm in love.

I was asked to to a destination wedding beach theme sock monkey cake topper.

The wedding colors are aqua and lime green.

I really don't want to send this one to the wedding couple, I want to keep it and look at it every day. It just makes me feel warm and happy inside.

I'll be making this a shop listing very soon.

OWOH Giveaway 2010 *Winner!

2010-01-24T22:40:00.002-06:00

I just used Random Number Generator to choose a winner, and the winner of Alistair is...

Malisa from Moonlight Hollow!

Congrats Malisa, and thank you so much to all who entered! I'll have a giveaway for my followers very soon.
(2/15/10)

OWOH is here, hurray!

It's the beloved Lisa Swifka's 4th annual One World One Heart Giveaway,

read all about it here.

The theme of this year's event is the "Magic Carpet Ride", and I feel like I've been on an out of control carpet lately!

This year OWOH has landed on one of the busiest times of my life. I am planing for a move, prepping my house to be put on the market, furiously packing boxes, driving 1000 miles with my hubby to look at houses and then turning around and driving back two days later. (I happen to be stuck 2 hours south of my destination due to a snowstorm as I'm writing this!)

My polymer clay sock monkey cake toppers have hit an all time high in sales, keeping me very busy in the studio...

and the ADO (art dolls only) Team's 2010 Traveling Doll Project has just begun

(pictured is "Sarah" speaking with some cake topper monkeys. Sarah belongs to Colleen Downs of LoopyBoopy, and she was Colleen's 2009 traveling doll)

Whew, if that's not enough, I'm weaning my sweet little 15 month old Baby G, which is emotionally challenging for us both. Fortunately he is a big lover of food, I've never seen anyone his size eat more than he does!

I had such a wonderful time visiting blogs last year during OWOH, I think I visited 1000!

This year I hope to visit at least several hundred. I'll visit yours if you visit mine, wink wink!

I am ready for some serious R & R. I'm not sure when that will happen, but let's pretend...

Breathe in.....

Breathe out....

Breathe in...

Breathe out...

Ahhh, that's better.

And now for my giveaway!

This is Alistair Iriekins.

He is plush, and upcycled from a box of fabric an trims that was given to me last year.

I made a challenge for myself to use only the materials in the box to create his body and hair. I added a bit of wire to his feelers and some fiberfill to stuff him.

He is 16" tall seated (not including his legs) and he is for decorative purposes, not for children to play with.

Alistair is full of love, and ready to be someone's new pal!

For your chance to win him, just leave me a comment on this blog post before midnight on Feb 14th, and I will choose a winner on February 15th!
(be sure to leave an email address or a way for me to find you if you are the winner)

If you choose to follow my blog, thank you! I will be happy to follow your blog too. I will also be having a blog giveaway later in February specifically for my followers.

Thank you Lisa for hosting this fabulous event!

Blessings,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

aka SpiritMama

Check This Out!

2010-01-07T18:59:00.000-06:00

I was featured on the ADO Traveling Doll Project blog today. It is a lovely write up by Cindy Sowers, who is doing features on each of the traveling doll artists for 2010.

http://adotravelingdollproject.blogspot.com/2010/01/waxela-sananda.html

Stay tuned, the new TDP has just begun!

11 Little Doggies

2010-01-05T22:13:00.000-06:00

I've been away from blogging for too long, but I'm back and I'll give you a peek at some custom dog sculpture ornaments I made during the Christmas rush.

Time to Relax (almost)!

2009-12-19T22:01:00.000-06:00

It has been a CRAAAAZY month for me!

My daughter had an insane number of events to attend, including a piano recital, dance recital, orchestra concert, winter dance (I chaperoned...yikes!) and that is just the beginning.

I set up at several local art and craft shows, and sold online too.

I also started a new little Etsy shop, which will remain a secret for now. I opened it on Dec. 9, and had 27 sales in my first 8 days! There will be more to come about that, it's a little...um...well... weird, but people seem to like it, and a big blog saw it and blogged about it after my second day online, and then another, and it's had a good start and kept me very busy!

I'm not sure if I'll blog again before Christmas, so happy holidays everyone!

Enjoy your family and down time, and think wonderful thoughts of prosperity for the new year.

Blessings,

Waxela (wa-shay-la)

Two Austin Shows This Weekend

2009-12-03T13:19:00.000-06:00

I'm a busy Mama getting ready for two shows this weekend.

First, it's Etsy Austin's "Craft Riot"!

and in case one fancy flyer for Craft Riot is not enough, here is another:

Sounds great, doesn't it? A little wine, some handmade gifts, photos with Santa, and me!

I also have some of my work at the

South Corridor Gallery @ First Presbyterian Church

8001 Mesa Drive, Austin, Texas 78731

there will be a reception and market with the artists Sunday morning.

“COLOR OF THE HOLIDAYS”

A Multi-media exhibition By

Multicultural Artists Partnership

Artists Reception and Gift Market:

Sunday, December 6, 9:45 to 11:30 am

South Corridor Gallery @ First Presbyterian Church

8001 Mesa Drive, Austin, Texas 78731

Tel: 345-8866

Featuring art and handmade crafts for sale,

Created by the artists featured in this exhibit-

A great opportunity for Christmas shopping while supporting local artists.

Please come join us!

a Cowboy, a Fairy, and a Skeleton (with a pink bow)

2009-11-23T17:44:00.001-06:00

I've been working on a fun project this week. I got an order from a woman with three children. Each Christmas she lets the children choose an ornament. They can ask for any type of ornament they want. This is the order:

1 Cowboy,

1 Fairy,

1 Skeleton with a pink bow (hehe, love this!)

Here are the results:

Picnic in November

2009-11-17T13:45:00.001-06:00

One of the best parts of living in Texas is that we have beautiful weather in November. It was a perfect day for a picnic last Saturday, so we went to my mother-in-law's back yard and that's just what we did.

Baby G had fun frolicking in the grass...

and shaking branches on the bushes.

Sissy and Baby G smile for a snapshot.

Sissy made a leaf bouquet.

This angel statue was fun to play with...

until she fell over, uh-oh!

Time for a walk...what is Baby G looking at?

It's a beautiful butterfly, he doesn't miss a thing!

Gabrielle Ghost

2009-11-11T12:22:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to share this wonderful ghostie lady with you. She was created for me by Colleen of LoopyBoopy, and she is just beautiful. Her name is Gabrielle.

Do you love her?

Are you jealous?

You can see more LoopyBoopy creations in her etsy shop: LoopyBoopy.etsy.com.

And here is another wonderful treasure I received last month for winning second place in the PCAGOE monthly challenge.

It is a beautiful polymer clay pendant by Linda of NK Designs. It has gorgeous sparkles and it's so smooth it feels like stone.

See more of Linda's work in her etsy shop: NKDesigns.etsy.com

Thanks so much Colleen and Linda, I am truly blessed to have such beautiful art!

Monsters!

2009-11-10T17:35:00.002-06:00

I've been so busy, I forgot to go check out the monster parade at Zan's blog, Wild at Heart Art!

The monster parade is a showing of all of the monster art dolls that were created for Zan's latest art doll swap. It is really something to see, so go take a look!

And without further ado, I will now show off Alexander, the preppy brain-bearing "nice guy" monster that I made for this swap.

Alexander went to live with LoopyBoopy, and from what I've heard he's very happy there!

stay tuned for a look at the beautiful monster Colleen of LoopyBoopy sent to me!

Dogs, Dogs Dogs!

2009-11-05T12:17:00.001-06:00

Dogs have been a central theme in my art lately. I didn't go looking for them, they came to me, so I think the Universe is telling me something. Maybe I'll start doing dog portrait sculptures.

First, meet Rascal.

Rascal lives with a high school friend of my husband's, and his people asked me to do a portrait sculpture of him. I had never done this type of dog sculpture, so this was a real challenge. Rascal lived up to his name, and it took me 3 months, but I finally finished him.

Here is the real Rascal:

Next, I decided to do a show benefiting the CTDR, Central Texas Dachshund Rescue. It's called "Winter Weinerland Bazaar", and it will be this Saturday, Nov. 7th.

Saturday, November 7, 10am–4pm
Renaissance Hotel
9721 Arboretum Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

Here is a little preview of what I have been working on for the dachshund show:

A pack of dachshund ornaments!

I hope to see you Saturday at the show!

Central Texas Dachshund Rescue
“Shopping in a Wiener Wonderland”
Holiday Bazaar
Saturday, November 7, 10am–4pm
Renaissance Austin Hotel,
9721 Arboretum, Austin, TX

Come shop in a casual and relaxed atmosphere that features
many of Austin’s finest artists, craft-makers, and merchants. There will also be
raffles and a silent auction.
$5 Admission includes 2 raffle tickets

Halloween, Masquerade Concert and a 1st Birthday

2009-11-04T12:25:00.000-06:00

My daughter has taken up violin this year, and her very first concert was Oct 29th. It was a Masquerade concert, so they got to dress up. She is dressed as the Twilight vampire, Alice Cullen, of course!

Then there was Halloween. I was not successful in getting a picture of the whole family dressed up together. Josiah dressed early and went trick or treating with a friend, Baby G dressed after that, and fell asleep before Daddy put on his hula attire, so at least I get shots of everyone, not together!

Here is Josiah dressed as Alice Cullen when she first met Bella. I upcycled the dress from an unused wedding dress that has been hanging in my closet for years. She has everything down to the shoes (I don't think Alice was carrying a pumpkin bag though). She is with her best friend Maddie and Maddie went as a rock star but she wasn't finished dressing yet.

Here's my little chic, Baby G!

And here I am wearing skeleton tights and gloves. I had a puffy little skirt which I sewed scary little clay faces to and they were my collection of "lost souls". Brett dug around in his mother's costume box five minutes before we went to the party and this is what he came up with.

On November 2nd, my baby turned 1 year old!

Viva La Vida

2009-10-25T12:54:00.002-05:00

Viva La Vida Fest

was amazing! I got there yesterday at 11am to set up, and I got home at midnight, so it was a very long but fun filled day!

There were people dressed up as Muertos everywhere, and there was a wonderful parade in the evening, live music all day, and an amazingly lively crowd all day long. Here are some pictures of just a few memorable scenes and characters:

(look at her Chihuahua wearing a skull and crossbones!)

I love this one, her dog has Frida eyebrows!

I wish I had been able to get some shots of the parade, but my booth was so full of people I couldn't get to the front for pictures! (this is a good problem ;-) ) This is a shot after the parade as the crowd was dispersing.

And now a special treat to show off. I've been keeping this under cover until now so I could include pictures in this post.

I was the very fortunate winner of a Dia de los Muertos altar box made by Esther Verschoor from Heemskerk in the Netherlands!

(my little trolls were showing it off at the festival)

The inside of the box is filled with sugar skulls, flowers, fruits, and even a tiny cake for the muertos to feast on!

The entire box is beautifully painted on every side.

This box is wonderful, a true work of art, thank you so much Essie, for making it with such attention to detail and for sending it all this way! The crowd at the Festival loved it too.

Viva La Vida Fest Tomorrow in Austin, TX

2009-10-23T15:18:00.000-05:00

I'll be an art vendor tomorrow, Saturday October 24th at Mexic-Arte Viva La Vida Fest!

Mexic-Arte Museum
presents
Viva la Vida Fest 2009
26th Annual
Día de los Muertos

Saturday, October 24, 2009
2:00-10:00 PM
5th Street, Austin, TX
(between Congress & Brazos)
FREE Admission

Grand Procession
6:00-7:00 PM
(gathers at Plaza Saltillo at 5 PM)

I hope you will come and join the fun!

Oh I had a Little Chicken, and we did the Monster Mash!

2009-10-21T21:33:00.000-05:00

Today was a good day to try out Baby G's Halloween costume.

At least I thought so, Baby G may have had other ideas.

Hehehe, isn't he a cute little chicken?

It just makes me want to sing...

"Oh I had a little chicken

and he wouldn't lay an egg..."

You know the tune right?

Except it's really not appropriate here.

But we CAN sing

The Monster Mash!

And we can dance to it too...

Here is my family doing the monster mash...

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

My daughter is the narrator, My hubby is Frankenstein, I'm Frankenstein's Bride, Baby G is the vampire, and my mom is the werewolf!

Happy Halloween everyone!!!

A Good Mail Day!

2009-10-21T10:23:00.001-05:00

I love a good mail day.  A day when I get something other than bills and junk mail, something like a box filled with fabulous goodies, and my very favorite magazine in the world!  (checks are nice too) Yesterday was one of those days, here's why...

I got a fun filled box from Zan who writes the Wild at Heart Art blog!  I ordered Annie the lavender filled Voodoo Pin cushion from Zan, but Annie did not come alone!  Annie brought  Teddy Witch, another pin cushion, both came with poems and pin bouquets, so cute!  

And that's not all, my box smelled delicious when I opened it, because there was a little gift bag full of yummy smelling candle tarts!  I put them in the bathroom, and this morning my hubby said "The bathroom smells good, what did you do in there?"  Haha! (well, I didn't clean it if that's what he was wondering, lol)

And the other goodie in my mailbox...

Art Doll Quarterly, hurray!!! I love to see which of my ADO team members made it in, and this month I saw some great puppets from Sheri DeBow inside!

Halloween Magic Mushroom Tale

2009-10-16T23:53:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Halloween, 

A magic mushroom has appeared.

And on the mushroom can be seen

Fae and creatures strange, and weird!

What’s this? you ask...

an eye? some hair?

A little troll was under there!

Another troll? You guess out loud.

He caught a frog, he looks so proud!

 A nice big frog has hopped on in...

Oh wait, watch out, this frog eats MEN!

Something new has just stopped by...

What's he see? He looks surprised!

A creepy cat, a witch's brew?

Did someone evil cook this stew?

Evil? No, please have no fear...

These silly elves are the pranksters here.

And now too soon, you must move on, this party goes from night 'till dawn...

Vanessa Valencia at A Fanciful Twist hosts a ghoul, ghost, and goblin trist.

Early, late, or in between, so many blog parties wait to be seen! 

Now go have fun this party night, and when you return, 

I'll peek in

to say Goodnight!

Sneak Peek! Sneek Peek!

2009-10-13T20:22:00.005-05:00

Ok, here's the deal. I made a monster for Zan's Incredible Monster Swap, but I'm not allowed to show him before the official MONSTER PARADE sometime around NOV 4th . I already sent him to his new home, so all I have are some pictures which are BEGGING to be seen. So here is my compromise. I will give a little sneak peek. No harm in a peek, right??? (sorry Zan!)

PCAGOE Challenge Winners

2009-10-09T09:57:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much to all who voted in the October Polymer Clay Artisans Guild of Etsy challenge!

I was fortunate to get 2nd place in the challenge. That is an honor, considering all of the beautiful entries. Members were asked to interpret one of their favorite works of art or to take inspiration from the colors or style of their favorite artist.

The winners of the October challenge are:

First place goes to Studioschiek for her stunning "Lady In Waiting" framed polymer clay sculpture inspired by Gustav Klimt. This entry was the overwhelming favorite of the voters, garnering more than 50% of the total votes.

Second place goes to Spiritmama for her beautiful pendant, a faithful rendition of Edvard Munch's "The Scream".

Third place goes to NKDesigns for her beautiful Yellow Calla Lilies image transfer pendant and gemstone necklace, inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe's series of Calla Lily paintings.

Lucky Me!

2009-10-07T13:23:00.005-05:00

I've had some fun lucky stuff happen the last couple of days!

First, I won a giveaway at Funky Chunks Handmade Soaps! They will be sending me a "three Chunk gift box of Funky Chunks soaps!"

The soaps are:

Spiced Wassail - A delectable scent combination of apples, oranges, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Prince Albert - An old fashioned blend of clove buds, cinnamon stick, crisp pine needles. Blended with sweet orange and rich smooth pipe tobacco.

Pumpkin Spice - A delicious blend of clove and nutmeg with pumpkin and sweet vanilla.

Yum!

Next, I have a sock monkey wedding cake topper featured on DZ Fantasy blog!

And I have a sock monkey birthday cake topper featured at Candy Dish Blog. What a treat!

Thank you to all of my benefactors, I am honored and feeling bubbly inside!

Passion Flower

2009-10-04T18:56:00.003-05:00

Look what snuck into our yard, right over the neighbor's fence...

It's a Passion Flower. Isn't it just amazing? I've never seen a more beautiful and interesting flower. I'm so glad it decided to pay us a visit!

Mambo the Clown

2009-09-25T08:51:00.013-05:00

Mambo the Clown Saw Something He Shouldn't Have Seen

What happened in the dark alley behind Gable the Magician's trailer last night?

Police want to know, but Mambo the Clown and his doll Rosie were the only witnesses, and they aren't talking...

I Made Mambo for the ADO Team Clown challenge. He will be here in my Etsy shop until he is relocated by the witness protection program.

PCAGOE Treasury

2009-09-17T21:26:00.004-05:00

I want to show off this beautiful treasury done by Lynda aka SCDiva
which I am honored to be included in. I am a member of PCAGOE, which stands for polymer clay artists guild of Etsy. I know that's a mouthful, but in a nutshell it's all people who love to play with clay!

Etsy Finds: Keep it Weird

2009-09-12T14:49:00.006-05:00

My Creepy Man Eating Frog sculpture was featured along with many other incredibly haunting finds in the Etsy Spotlight "Keep It Weird" today. Take a look at the crazy images at:

http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight/etsy-finds-keep-it-weird-5138/

Day of the Dead

2009-09-03T08:45:00.008-05:00

I've been having lots of fun with Sugar Skulls! I'm preparing for Dia de los Muertos, and I've been filling my shop with products featuring my sugar skull ink drawing, and Ive even had requests from people who want to buy a sugar skull stamp. The stamps should be available soon.

Etsy Handmade Portraits: Mimi Kirchner

2009-08-27T16:18:00.005-05:00

Mimi Kirchner is a wonderful doll artist and the subject of Etsy's "Handmade Portrait" this week. Watch the video to see some amazing artist wheels turning:

You can visit Mimi's blog here.

Twin Baby Shower Sock Monkey Cake Topper

2009-08-27T10:19:00.010-05:00

A customer asked me if I could make a sock monkey baby shower cake topper with twin boys. Her party favors are little aqua blue gumball machines!

They are so cute I don't want to send them away! But I will.

Here is a picture of the party favors:

You can see more pictures here.

I Made a Shop Banner!

2009-08-21T20:26:00.005-05:00

I made myself a new shop banner for my Etsy and Artfire shops. I'm not much of a graphic artist, so I was pretty proud of myself that I was able to figure out how to do it.

I found a great online tutorial by ZenithJade here.

You can see my banner at work in my shop, here!

Bamboo Festival this weekend!

2009-08-19T18:35:00.005-05:00

The 17th Annual Texas Bamboo Festival will be held at Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin, TX on Saturday and Sunday, August 22 - 23, 2009.

Hours: Saturday 10 am - 6 pm, Sunday 10 am - 5 pm - Admission - free. Parking fee $3.

The festival includes educational presentations about bamboo, a live plant auction on Saturday afternoon, bamboo plants, poles and crafts for sale.

I will have a booth there with my bamboo clothing, jewelry and art. My bamboo clothing will be HALF PRICE!!!

I hope to see you there!

ADO Team Treasury

2009-08-15T12:14:00.001-05:00

I got a treasury last night and filled it with ADO dolls!

You still have time to go click the pics!

Here is the link:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=76348

Wonder Woman Sock Monkey Sculpture

2009-08-15T11:02:00.005-05:00

I had a little fun yesterday during Baby G's nap. Yes I should be cleaning the house and working on custom orders. But sometimes a girl just has to have a little fun, ya know?

She is Wonder Woman sock monkey, a 4.5" sculpture. I have been wanting to do a series of sock monkey sculptures dressed as various characters for a while, but haven't found the time. I started dreaming about them two nights ago, and I just had to get one out. So here she is.

Wonder Monkey to the rescue!

Wonder Woman sock monkey is available in my etsy shop.

New Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper Cupcake Size

2009-08-13T16:28:00.008-05:00

I've had several requests for a mini sock monkey topper that could adorn a smaller cake, a cupcake tower, the groom's cake, or perhaps just as a decoration or keepsake.

This is it! It is 2 inches tall. I had such a blast making these little cuties!

This topper can be ordered as shown, or I can make the following customizations:

1. Choose the color of base that the monkeys are sitting on
2. Choose the color of flowers the bride is holding
3. Choose two colors for the two accessory flowers which are included.
~You can order more accessory flowers if you want more than two!

4. I will make this a hangable ornament for you if you ask me to. I will add hanger loops to the top of each monkey, but only if you ask!

ps This would make a wonderful wedding gift.

They're waiting in my Etsy Shop!

Rocker Muerto Day of the Dead Art Doll

2009-08-11T12:01:00.005-05:00

Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos, Halloween, skeletons, sugar skulls.  These are a few of my favorite things!  And that time of year is sneaking up on us already.

ADO Team is having a Halloween challenge, which got me motivated to do this Rocker Muerto.  Rocker Muerto is 13.5" tall seated. He is made of polymer clay, upcycled clothing including red pleather pants, and a bamboo t-shirt. The skull on his shirt is my own design.

My Rocker Muerto has a 7" removable polymer clay and wire guitar.

He is in my ETSY SHOP.

Saskia

2009-08-07T13:11:00.004-05:00

I am so fortunate! I have a new little doll living with me. Her name is Saskia, and she was made by Chrstine Alvarado of Du Buh Du Designs. Isn't she fantastic?

My birthday just happened to be the day before Saskia was for sale in Christine's shop, sooo
"Happy birthday to me!"

Thank you for creating such beautiful and inspiring dolls, Christine!

Shipping Tips!

2009-08-07T13:04:00.000-05:00

How to package our dolls and fragile art items is a big question that many doll artists have. When I first started shipping my cake toppers I knew the packaging was crucial in order for them to arrive at their destination intact.

I've had some trials and errors with packaging, and here are the key points I've learned:

1. Choose a box that is at least twice as large as the piece you are shipping.
~You want to pick a box that has plenty of room for packing material

2. If your item is extremely fragile I recommend double boxing. Placing your well packed inner box inside a slightly larger box with packing peanuts surrounding it is a great way to insure your item will arrive safely. Did you know that the USPS requires 4" of packing peanuts around an inner box in order to pay a claim on an insured package? If you are paying extra to insure your packages, make sure your package meets your shipper's packaging criteria.

3. After trying several more advanced techniques such as wiring my sculpture to a base before shipping, I learned that the very best packaging for my items is bubble wrap. Lots and lots of bubble wrap!

4. You do not need to spend much money on packing material! Find a local business who receives lots bubble wrap, and you can save them money by taking it off of their hands. I found an endless supply of bubble wrap by posting on Craigslist. The same is true for boxes. Find a local store who will give you their boxes and you are in business.
~Be sure to inspect your boxes for damage, and never ship in a box that has been dented or ripped. Make sure when reusing bubble wrap that the air is still in the bubbles, and check to be sure the packaging is clean.

Taking a few extra steps today while packing your art will save you lots of time, effort, and money in the long run.

SpiritMama Art and Soul

VW Van Sock Monkey Cake Topper

New Paintings!

Happy New Year!

ArtsLIVE feature

New Website!

Blog Feature

See the feature here!

I Love October!

The Winner is...

Blog GIVEAWAY! My ART for your VOTE!

Day of the Dead Art "Viva La Vida"

Sock Monkey Santas with Heart Wedding Cake Topper or Ornament

Day of the Dead Wedding Cake Topper

A Few of My Latest Cake Toppers

Sail Away with Me!

SpiritMama's photostream

Remembering Bliss

Sock Monkeys on a Tandem Bicycle Wedding Cake Topper

I Love Cake Pictures!

Twins

OWOH Look What I Won!!!

OWOH the winner is...

A Few of My Latest Cake Toppers

One World One Heart 2011

Beach Destination Wedding Time!

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper with Peacock Feathers

Free Tip for Craft Show Vendors

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cyber Monday SALE!

Flower Fairies

Sophia Art Doll

The Best Job

Twin Monkeys First Birthday Cake Topper

Wedding Cake Topper: Sock Monkeys on a Boat

Autumn Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper Update

Monarch Butterfly Hatching

Dragonfly

Little Prince First Birthday Cake Topper

Frida Kahlo Sock Monkey Art Doll

Alice in Wonderland ADO Blog Event

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Topper Update

Gabriel Gets Some Berries

Mini Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Toppers

A Perfect Morning Walk

Sock Monkey Wedding Cake Toppers

Baby Robin and Gabriel

Monkey Business Cake Topper Art Dolls

My Latest Beach Destination Wedding Cake Topper

New Home

My Deep Dark Little Secret...

Tree Goddess Tapestry Winner Announced

Goddess Tree Beaded Tapestry Giveaway!

Mod Monkey Party Cake Toppers

A Special Treat For You! MC Yogi - Give Love

And the winner is...

Beach Wedding Sock Monkey Cake Topper

OWOH Giveaway 2010 *Winner!

Check This Out!

11 Little Doggies

Time to Relax (almost)!

Two Austin Shows This Weekend

a Cowboy, a Fairy, and a Skeleton (with a pink bow)

Picnic in November

Gabrielle Ghost

Monsters!

Dogs, Dogs Dogs!

Saturday, November 7, 10am–4pmRenaissance Hotel9721 Arboretum Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

Here is a little preview of what I have been working on for the dachshund show:

I hope to see you Saturday at the show!

Halloween, Masquerade Concert and a 1st Birthday

Viva La Vida

Viva La Vida Fest Tomorrow in Austin, TX

Oh I had a Little Chicken, and we did the Monster Mash!

A Good Mail Day!

Halloween Magic Mushroom Tale

Sneak Peek! Sneek Peek!

PCAGOE Challenge Winners

Lucky Me!

Passion Flower

Saturday, November 7, 10am–4pm
Renaissance Hotel
9721 Arboretum Blvd, Austin, TX 78759