bella studio

bella!

2012-02-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

pretty, pretty for a gloomy february afternoon
~karla

patchwork project of the day

2012-01-26T20:14:00.000-05:00

an entire day in the studio yesterday....

a lot of cleaning and organizing had to be done before i could get to work.

i had some leftover leather from an earlier project and decided to see what i could do with it.

this tote is the result of those scraps.

i'm loving it!!

and today, my first compliment from a girl in the grocery store!!

i almost gave her a hug for even noticing!

i love people like that!!!

inside i attached a hook for my keys.

something i desperately need.

now the problem of the cel phone.

well...it's a work in progress.

old school

2012-01-19T08:02:00.001-05:00

i am in love with chalkboards!!

i love to make chalkboards out on the driveway for greetings and celebrations. sometimes just to play.

i have a chalkboard in my kitchen, but i wanted more.

i always see these great rooms with large walls of chalkboard, but just haven't

found a space that was right for me in our house.

until now...

the laundry room door!!!

perfect!!

i always keep sports schedules and random odds and ends.
now the space is functional and completely beautiful!!

(just look away from the mismatched washer/dryer

new washer-23yr. old dryer.

can't replace it until it dies.)

the funny thing is that the dryer gives us less trouble than the 1 yr. old washer....

i love my new space!!!

below are beautiful spaces found on pinterest with some great chalkboard art.

vintage wallpaper, glamor included

2012-01-17T12:50:00.000-05:00

re-do.....done!(well, almost)
and as always there were "challenges" along the way.
for some reason i thought this one roll of paper would cover this entire 2 wall space.
not that i measured and calculated...i just eye-balled it, looked like plenty.

as you can see from the finished product, i had to go to plan "b" when i realized that i would not have enough.
and....actually, plan "b" turned out to be better than plan "a".
i found another roll of vintage paper that i bought at the same time and decided it was a perfect compliment.

i love this large floral print and i love, love mixing patterns!!!

problem #2....i didn't have enough of the second paper to finish the second wall!!!
un-real!!

i called my "wallpaper friend" and she found another roll of paper #2in her barn filled with wallpaper and other vinitage treasures.
i've been saved!!!
so....a successful project, almost done.

i decided to leave out the mantel and just stick with these pretty pieces.
the mirror more functional hanging vertically and the bench a perfect place to catch my clothes that i don't feel like hanging up.

happiness!!!!

xo, karla

new year...new project

2012-01-11T11:05:00.000-05:00

finally....it's time for me to make get going on a project that has been "on deck" for sometime.

today is the day!

beautiful vintage wallpaper will be on two small walls in our room.

currently, it's a nice space with pretty fabrics and pictures, but we have never taken the next step (actually it should be the first step) and worked on the walls.

this project will just cover the closet walls, but i know it will be the beginning of a bigger project....painting the room. painting the room doesn't seem like that big of a deal....we just have never put the time aside to do it.

and this will be the paper!!!

awesome right??

i'm hopeful that everything goes smoothly.

better get back to work!

until next time....

merry christmas!!!

2011-12-20T14:09:00.000-05:00

i love days like this when the only thing on my to-do list "play"
tweaking my holiday home, baking cookies and working on cards.
things most people have done....but, this is just the way things are around here.

one thing that was not on my list of things to do today was work on a post for my blog!
but, i finally have a new camera (thanks mom!) and i just felt excited to get something fresh out there.
so.....short and sweet!

happy, merry
~karla

holiday shows!!

2011-11-09T20:33:00.000-05:00

it may seem as if i have abandoned my work because i have not been doing any blogging in what seems like forever!!

but i have been working!
working without a camera!
it's just no fun to look for blog ideas and photos that are not my own....but that will be changing very soon.
for now, i will rely on some old favorites from amy parrish.

the most important thing is dates...dates for 2 upcoming holiday shows.
this weekend November 12th grandview holiday show

and next weekend November 19th and 20th...ChristmasFair at the aladdin shrine.
check out the links for all the details!!
i'd love to see you!!

xo ~karla

in a kitchen kind of mood

2011-10-10T10:09:00.000-04:00

just a little thing like a new dishcloth has me kitchen happy!
i may not have a camera right now....but there are tons and tons of beautiful kitchens to enjoy out there.

pinterest is my favorite source of beautiful inspiration!!!
it can be a little obsessive....too much time pinning!!
if you haven't explored pinterest yet....you can't believe the beauty you are missing.
and the ability to put together your own personal "journal" of inspiration in every category under the sun.
i have magazine pages everywhere!!! and i've created several notebooks with pages i cannot part with.
i love, love going back to look through them!
that's what pinterest is....only online and much more organized!!! love it!!!

happy pinning!!

~karla

simple beauty

2011-10-09T19:45:00.000-04:00

i picked up this fabric at a thrift store ages ago.
with just a scrap i had laying around, i finished the edges and put it to good use in my kitchen sink.
it is sooooo pretty!
i love these simple surprises!
and it helps that i have some pretty vintage dishes and cups!
styled just right for my not-so-great picture
still working on getting a camera
used my phone for this one.
have a good day!

lost camera :(((

2011-10-04T14:21:00.000-04:00

i've been working and creating....but not blogging!!!
it's so disappointing!!
no camera, no camera because it's gone, lost...i have no idea what happened to it!!!

but, i'm getting over that loss.
i need to put the effort into looking for a new camera, but for now i thought i'd just look through the tons and tons of photos i have and pull some out.
funny, that the ones i want to post are mostly pictures that i have already used in this blog.
oh well....
i'll have a lot of new beauty to share soon.

what camera should i consider?

any suggestions?

i need a good camera in my budget...help!!

country living 2011

2011-09-21T22:37:00.001-04:00

what an amazing weekend!!

the weather was perfection, and tons of people enjoyed the country living fair again this year!

it was the best one yet, as far as i'm concerned....so many new and really great tents!

bloomsbury loft and bella studio had fun and worked hard!!

a lot of prep to get ready for a big show like this.

a lot of packing and setting up followed by 3 long days working the show and then... more packing and unloading....it's exhausting!!

exhausting....but a great show!!

so much fun for us to enjoy hanging out together....chatting, shopping for unique finds, eating and just having fun!

i'm in love with my new vintage flash cards, some of my favorite things. i'm thinking of framing them for the dining room. (more on that project later)

i was so excited that the tote bags and new clutches were a big hit!

thank you country living!!!
see you next year!!

Country Living Fair...September 16th-18th

2011-09-12T08:34:00.000-04:00

don't miss the annual Country Living Fair next weekend!!

Bloomsbury Loft will be bursting with goodies again this year.

this show never disappoints....

it's such fun and a total treasure hunt!!

i've been "crazy" trying to get as many

totes,

headbands,

pouches,

pins,

and vintage goodies,

ready for the show

the bloomsbury tent is always beautiful

and full of unique finds,

hope to see you there!!

click here for all the info. you'll need.

summers end :(

2011-08-24T11:40:00.002-04:00

things are always busy around here, but the end of august

was much more...

in addition to...

summer shows,

vacation (love, love that kind of busy)

errands, errands, errands, preparing for back to school,

and work....

we sent our oldest off to college

so many emotions to go along with that!

but i wouldn't want anything less for her.

i'm am just truly going to miss her!

vacation fun in northern michigan.

love the water!

moving day

pretty pillow for mackenzie's bed, made out of a little girl's dress i found at t.j. maxx.

perfect to remember her trip to france.

sam filling her picture frames with pictures of him,

soooo funny!!

i didn't want to leave.....

too hard to say goodbye

~karla

in love with lakeside!!!

2011-08-02T20:59:00.000-04:00

lakeside arts and craft fair

it's unbelievable how beautiful this little town is!

lakeside, ohio has a charm that feels like home.

comfortable, warm just completly relaxing!

new friends enjoying bella studio.

these are my new zipper pouches!!

perfect for putting essentials in your tote bag.

i'm excited about my new zipper "skills"

still a little rough...but getting better.

such a nice weekend!

the weather is always unpredictable....but it is sooooo worth it!

i've made some new friends and really, really enjoy my visits.

coming soon....bella studio on etsy!

i need to get on it!!!

re-do!!

2011-07-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

you know when you have one of those days when everything is just "off".

it starts out different and continues throughout...

yesterday

was

one of

"those" days!!!

my assignment for the day - bloomsbury loft.

i planned on unpacking all my stuff from the weekend (the westerville art fest.),

getting my handmades settled in and pretty,

and re-arranging.

we were in desperate need of a re-fresh.

everything from the main window to displays reaching from front to back.

no big deal, i was up for the task.

but what threw me off was that after i started to dismantle

the front display, before i could get my handmades "settled" in

and before i had made any progress at all....except to make more of a mess,

i had visitors!

first time visitors,

new friends that were in the area and thought they'd stop in to see the shop and my handmades that i have been raving about.

and after their visit....sales reps and old customers from powell that were visiting.

nooooooooo!!!!!

not yet.....i'm not ready!!!

it was not a pretty sight!

i was pulling pillows, dishtowels, headbands, and pins out of

bags and purses and dumping them on the tables...

hoping that something pretty would distract them from the mess i had made in the shop.

rambling on like i do when i'm nervous about who knows what...

it was soooooo awkward! (my kids favorite thing to say)

i can only be grateful that they didn't stay long.

it took me a while to "re-group" and i worked like a dog to make what i had look as good as i could.

and at the end of the day....

i was proud at what i had accomplished!

you just never know

what you're in for day-to-day.

i guess we just make the best of it and move on.

this certainly was not that big of a deal in the "big picture"

but, i take a lot of pride in my work and what i put out there.

i just want the people that walk in and see that.

that's important to me!

show time

2011-07-12T19:48:00.000-04:00

the westerville music and arts festival was a success!

the weather was great

and the show was awesome!

lots and lots of people!

what every good show needs.

my displays are coming along.

with every show,

i make changes and try to give my tent a fresh look.

these totes are my new obsession.

i've been making and tweaking, tweaking, tweaking.

i made several...and then thought...are these going to sell?

good news...i sold several

so excited!!

this westerville show was big for me.

i was thrilled to be accepted.

hoping for another visit next year.

next show....

lakeside arts and crafts show

lakeside, ohio

i love, love, love this show on the lake!!

and last year i made some new friends that im excited to see again this year.

westerville music and arts festival

2011-07-08T22:50:00.000-04:00

the car is packed and i'm ready for the show!!

see you this weekend

at the

westerville music and arts festival!!!

i'm praying for good weather....and lots of people!!!

i love my new totes.

summer totes

2011-07-05T23:07:00.001-04:00

new summer totes.

i've been making them non-stop.

some of them with sail cloth that i scored at a flea market last year!!

until now, i wasn't sure what to do with it....

so glad i waited

lots more too.

getting ready for the westerville music and art festival this weekend!!!

hoping for a great show!!!

happy camper!!

2011-06-27T22:10:00.003-04:00

some photos of my first assist for an anthropologie weekend special event.

i was excited to be a part of this camping display we did over memorial day weekend.

it was a fun way to highlight some of the great

camp/picnic cookbooks in the store.

i created this little tee-pee tent using an easel and covering it with

anthro tablecloths.

love, love, love it!!

and the little critters inside....adoreable!!!

our treats were just right for shoppers to enjoy with out too much fuss.

sesame popcorn from the camping cookbook....Yum!

raspberry lemonade with simple syrup and fresh mint

and...s'mores on a stick!

yes....on a stick!

here's how to do it...

melt a small bowl of milk chocolate chips in the microwave for approx. 30 to 40 seconds.

stir until smooth.

using a toothpick dip marshmallows into choc. and then into crushed graham crackers.

let sit on wax paper in fridge until firm...and enjoy!

easy and very pretty.

i was excited to bring any prop i could possibly think of from home for the display.

the thermoses, and circus flags...perfect!

along with the spigot for the lemonade perched on top of a just-right-sized tree stump.

and that how it's done!

i just couldn't stop with the photo shoot.

everything was just right with the world that day!!

and if you can stand a little more fun...

check out getcampie.com

the vintage campers are soooooo fun!

sunday's at the north market

2011-06-27T07:57:00.000-04:00

enjoyed my first gig at the

north market artisan sunday last weekend.

(see how on top of things i am...

it took me an entire week to post this.)

anyway....

i was excited about my first event of the season,

and a little worried.

the weather, as always around here, looked "scary" just as i finished setting up.

but, luckily everything cleared and it turned out nice.

it was a great opportunity for me to play with my display and enjoy the event.

even made a few new things to try out.

coasters....fun!

made with vintage wallpaper.

new totes

that are simple and great for market goodies!!!

this one was the first to sell!

so that's a wrap on that.....

need to stop procrastinating and go for a run.

working in the studio today!!!! yippee

getting ready for my next show on july 9th and 10th

the westerville music and arts festival!!!!

so so excited to get into this one.

i need to get busy!!

2011

2011-06-21T08:44:00.006-04:00

our first graduation party is in the books and it was amazing!!

amazing in so many ways....

a lot of work getting ready for our big event.

the same excitement for me as getting ready for her 1st birthday party!!

i wanted everyone to come.

i felt so excited to celebrate this milestone with everyone that had been a big part of our lives and also the new friends we were making,

the friends that would become a big part of our new lives as a family.

that 1st birthday party felt like a holiday....and this graduation party did too.

the prep work involved was summarized on a very long list of things to do before the party.

it included:

working on the yard (all george - he's so good at making things pretty outside)

repair projects in the house...so many little things that have been nagging us for some time.

fluffing....(new pretty pillows for in and out doors)

circus flags....many, many circus flags

sorting through tons of pictures to use for the party. pictures of mackenzie's first haircut, birthdays,1st communion, trips with friends and just everyday fun.

then came the menu!

this was stressful... deciding what to serve and almost, if not more important,

how much would we need?

this made me very nervous.

i'm not very good at gauging how much i need for a family of 5 let alone a party of 100 or more guests. what made it even more challenging was wondering how many were really going to eat and how many were coming from other parties...and might just nibble??

and, aside from all the main prep work, i just love the pretty things.

the little details that sometimes get me into trouble.

i get sidetracked thinking about these fun little things, usually when i don't have the time.

cutting off the tops of these pretty cans for flowers

stamping the cake plates.

putting candy in just the right bowl or platter.

making more garlands with cute pictures that had to be spray mounted and arranged just right.

cutting and stenciling the graduation sign for the yard...

i can't help it....that is soooo fun for me and makes everything more special!!

everything turned out great.

even the weather cooperated, storms the night before and a forecast that predicted rain all day...

but it didn't happen!!

hot yes, but no rain!!

and at the last minute, i asked mackenzie and her friends to come out for a picture in the front.

perfect!!

they all just pulled the signs out of the grass and....wow! i love it!!

so fun....and so glad to be done.

now....on to college prep.

a new list has been started!!

not a hair out of place

2011-05-31T08:15:00.000-04:00

from pins,

lampshades,

pillows

and headbands...

i'm now making the flowers into bobby pins.

easy to put in your hair where ever you like.

fresh

fun

unique

these have been great little gifts for all the graduation parties mackenzie has been going to.

have a good day!
~karla

2011

2011-05-26T08:09:00.000-04:00

a fun surprise for mackenzie's last day of classes!

who needs the pre-made signs that cost a whopping $90.00!!!

this is sooooo much more my style!!!

i always like to have my sidewalk "art" for special occasions,

and just for when i want to feel like a kid again.

...now to get through the commencement!

girl power

2011-05-25T13:51:00.000-04:00

loved these girls...

such fun!!

we got together to chat and make button bracelets,

such a fun girl scout activity!

and of course....my second favorite part

snacks!!

girl scout cookies-tagalongs (my fav)

and Popsicles...yummy

they really went all out with the buttons too,

chunky and sassy!!

they've got some serious style!

wedding flowers

2011-05-02T11:19:00.000-04:00

soooo fun!!!

one of the customers at bloomsbury loft is giving her special guests these pretty flowers from bella studio.

i just love that!!!

and i'm excited at how good my pictures came out.

i love when people go against tradition a little bit....

just do what they love!!

enjoy your day!

~karla

in season

2011-04-30T09:05:00.000-04:00

finally, a beautiful sunny day and time to enjoy!!

i've been working on flowers, flowers and more flowers.

this time instead of putting them in bottles and containers, they will be used as corsages.

what a wonderful idea, the bride will be pinning my sweet little fabric flowers on some of her special guests.

a sweet gift that will last long after their special day is over.

enjoy your day...

i know i will!

~karla

jewels

2011-04-19T08:47:00.000-04:00

i've worked on several different versions of these optical lenses.

these are a few new designs.

a great find a couple of years ago

an old old box of vintage lenses.

i'm going to be so disappointed when i've finished the box.

but i really have done a lot of great things with them.

the necklace above is sporting an old locket watch.

it doesn't work...but it is a great piece.

i even think it would be great with a picture tucked inside.

i stamped this with a vintage bank stamp....perfect with an old coin.

enjoy your day!

~karla

bella amy!!!

2011-04-12T09:25:00.002-04:00

Amy Parrish

recently took photos of my handmades....

wow!!

she is amazing

I can't believe what a difference it makes to see my things through the eye of an artist.

sooooo beautiful!

enjoy your day

~karla

eye candy!!!

2011-04-06T06:25:00.000-04:00

i am just about speechless over this amazing issue of ivy and piper

i wish i was tech-y enough to lift a better picture off the magazine to introduce here.. this is the best i could do.but when you flip the pages....you will surely be in heaven.

enjoy!!

it's in the bag

2011-04-04T09:36:00.000-04:00

my new totes are just right for market,library, beach....

fresh

bright

fun

a "bella" tote for spring!

blog love

2011-03-28T14:00:00.014-04:00

a new blog that i am loving!!

house of turquoise

aqua is one of my favorite colors
1st, and most importantly it is the quintessential
vintage color.

and 2nd
it creates such a beautiful combination with
red
brown
pink
yellow
i can't think of a combo. that doesn't look a little better than one with a touch of aqua.

and 3rd....i love all the photos.
no need for all the text-
just "bella" pictures!!!

pretty

2011-03-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

pretty new jewels all made using

vintage trinkets,

coins,

and buttons.

the metals are covered in resin and wrapped with beads

i just love these!

~karla

sold!!

2011-03-26T10:53:00.000-04:00

this is encouraging...

both of my new windows sold right away!

in addition, two older windows that have been in the shop for a couple months also sold!

it's a good feeling when someone see's your beauty!

it just makes me sooo happy.

*thanks for your donation beth :)

new projects...old windows

2011-03-22T13:19:00.000-04:00

i've used these beautiful prints from kim parker many times before and i just never tier of them.

fresh

carefree

playful

vibrant and full if color

and the mix with the old windows is just right!

the paris print....fun!!

a bit of a cartoon with great color.

getting work done without buying

just need to work on what i already have.

just takes a little time to think it through.

(also added some wallpaper to this library chair for the kitchen table)

gives it a little fun!

birthday love for sam!!

2011-03-15T21:10:00.001-04:00

every celebration needs circus flags.

we had fun celebrating sam's birthday....

we loved, loved, loved this yummy ice cream cake!

i think it's going to be a new family favorite.

in addition to pretty....it was easy.

try it-

layered ice cream cake

15 sandwich cookies (oreos)

1 Tbsp. milk

8 to 9 ice cream sandwiches

1 pt. ice cream for the bottom (we used choc. chip)

1 pt. vanilla frozen yogurt

1 pint ice cream for top (any flavor)

1 container of frozen whipped topping thawed

1. spray bottom and sides of round spring form pan w/cooking spray. line side with waxed paper. trim paper to height of pan.

2. finely crush 12 cookies in food processor. add milk until mixture holds together. set aside.

3. unwrap ice cream sandwiches. cut each into quarters. stack strips of sandwiches on end, packing them snugly together around waxed-paper lined pan. spoon cookie crumbs into center of pan: press firmly. freeze for 1 hour.

4. remove all 3 flavors of ice cream: let soften for 15 min at room temp. transfer to bowl and stir until good but firm consistency. spread each flavor of ice cream into pan and top with thawed whipped topping. break up remaining sandwich cookies and use to decorate. return to freezer for several hours or overnight.

*this seems like a lot of steps, but it really is easy. and we just used the kinds of ice cream we liked. no need to buy 3 different kinds. just fill the center and top with whipped topping.

Sam

holding his new cousin, allie.

it's amazing how fast they grow!

early blooms

2011-03-09T08:15:00.002-05:00

a new creation with my fabric flowers.

they're everywhere!

early blooms

i'm in desperate need of spring.....

these flowers will help get me through.

wake up smiling,

create everyday,

take in the sunshine,

love the one you're with,

appreciate.

have a good day!

~karla

studio work!!

2011-02-25T15:15:00.000-05:00

                      baby it's cold outside
                but it's warm and cozy in the studio

so soooooo pretty!

i am in a great mood with my new pillow creations.

bookshelf

2011-02-23T13:46:00.000-05:00

another great book for the bookshelf!

lotta jansdotter

love her simple style.

and i love the projects and even recipes in this book.

before getting this book,

i found this pillowcase at a thrift shop!!

i just liked the print and thought i could add a pretty crochet edge. (because i do that sort of thing...doesn't everybody?)

i was thrilled when i noticed it on lotta's bed.

did i actually find a pillow case from her collection?

no, it's from ikea....but i'm excited to know i have one of the same pillowcases in my home that lotta has in hers.

(we both have good taste)

i think we should hang out together and talk fabric.

maybe i'll give her a call. hee hee

gotta love lotta!!

fresh

2011-02-13T09:57:00.000-05:00

this is just the beginning...

i love how this is coming along and i am excited to keep making yo-yo's for more fun designs.

the the best part- this is a simple project and doesn't require a lot of supplies

i'll be teaching it at bloomsbury loft in march.

Cooking Club

2011-02-07T16:06:00.001-05:00

superbowl fun with cooking club!

i love "cooking club"

we find some good recipes that we either love or want to try and enjoy the cooking together.

this is the first time i talked the kids into...joining the "club"

for this "party", everyone made a favorite.

jake-fettuccine alfredo

he's a whiz at macaroni and cheese but this was a little more involved.

i thought it turned out good... he was disappointed.

it was a light version, and wasn't quite what he was expecting.

mackenzie-buffalo chicken won tons

yum!!!

we (i) am obsessed with buffalo chicken.

i love it!

and lately whenever i'm looking over a menu and buffalo chicken is anywhere to be found....pizza, salad etc., i have to get it.

so...theses little packages with buffalo chicken are amazing!
and sooooo pretty!

sam-peanut clusters

these are also amazing!

1 pkg. butterscotch chips

1cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 can peanuts

melt chips in microwave and add nuts.

drop onto cookie sheet covered with wax paper and cool.

me-cheeseburger pizza

pizza/cheeseburger in one.

we all loved the cheeseburger pizza.

ground meat, cheese, lettuce, pickles and tomatoes.

it's really good!

so...i'd say cooking club was a success!

just fun to make food preparation a family activity.

eye candy

2011-02-04T15:38:00.000-05:00

this is just pure beauty!!

enjoying my lonny magazine.

enjoy your day!

jewelry box goodies

2011-01-31T08:46:00.001-05:00

last week i finally sat down to work on some of the projects that i have been thinking about, but hadn't given the time to experiment with.

i bought an old box of optical lenses a couple of years ago and have played with different techniques to create interesting pendant using vintage paper, music sheets...sealed with resin.

i still have lenses left and wanted to try something different, stamping.

i used my vintage and new stamps on the glass, let it dry and sealed it with the resin.

they turned out great!

it's a fresh new look and a great way to use these vintage stamps.

i didn't stop there.

i also used this technique on these little metal disks.

random designs using the same stamps. they look like they've been punched out of a vintage tin.

fun choices for earrings.

pick your favorite two.

bella bags!!

2011-01-27T08:13:00.000-05:00

i'v been working hard on new designs for my "hippie" bags.

trying new combinations and using more leather.

using fabrics from clothing that i have decided i will no longer wear...like this one made from a skirt i got at the cath kidston shop in new york.

(i no longer wear the skirt but couldn't bear to give it to goodwill)

now it has just taken on a new form....and it is beautiful!!

inside the bags have leather pockets and my favorite feature....the key strap.

made from vintage tape measures.

my daughter actually likes my new bags...which is hard to believe.

she wants me to try a messenger style.

that will be my next challenge.

i love a challenge!!

time for bed

2011-01-22T09:30:00.000-05:00

creating my own warm weather spot in the shop with beach balls and flags.
this would be a fun bed to snuggle in with a good book.

the only problem...the mattress is filled with air and it has a slow leak(and of course people walking by looking in might be a little distracting)

off to work

and then maybe a quick stop at the

scott's antique show later.

such a fun place to find a vintage treasure.

what are you waiting for...

~karla

patchwork play

2011-01-20T09:36:00.002-05:00

i can't stop.

i've been on a roll with these pillows, and even did a pretty good photo shoot.

the mixing of these vintage and new fabrics, the playfulness of the design....makes me smile :)

also continuing on the headbands. i changed the flower design on these. this one is especially fun, made with a belt from the thrift store.

too small or i would have used it myself.

back to work

~karla

p.s. they are available at bloomsbury...and if i was smart, i would get them on etsy. maybe later today.

1.15.11

2011-01-15T08:43:00.000-05:00

someones enjoying a cold afternoon snuggled up on the couch.
pete's new favorite place to hang....(which i'm always chasing him off of)
but he does look adorable!

i am in love with my little creamer (which actually holds my sweetener) and now i have this amazing little "dorothy" spoon
reminding me:

there's no place like home.

a beautiful way to start the morning.
stay warm!

i did it!!

2011-01-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

another attempt at the "beach ball" pillow, these two definitely rounder.

more work to be done, but i'm getting there.

happy new year!

2011-01-09T22:18:00.007-05:00

inspiration

a trip to the library for some new books to enjoy!

first new experiment of the new year.

thought these "beach ball" pillows looked fun.

unfortunately, mine turned out to look more like a pumpkin...but i'm going to give it another try.

this book by cath kidston is a real treasure.

great projects and beautiful pages filled with color and personality.

and i think i should offer it up as a giveaway!!

comments!! i'm desperately in need of comments!

enjoy your day

~karla

pretty pretty!!

2010-12-23T15:40:00.001-05:00

gifts are finally wrapped and i'm late in doing this post but still wanted to share the awesome blogs i came across that got me all excited to add some fun to my gifts.

the first bit of inspiration came from a magazine i was flipping through while having lunch out and about. i came across the idea of making letters out of pipe cleaners!! love that!! so easy and they just add so much fun to my packages.

i finished my lunch and went straight to hobby lobby for pipe cleaners and yarn!! the yarn for pom poms also shown in the article.
i was obsessed! and now i have little bits of yarn all over my house....hard to get them all up with the vacuum for some reason. but it's all been worth it!

i have always loved anything with pom poms on it. now i am making them non-stop. and just like the tassels i make, they look great hanging anywhere and everywhere.

and can you believe the beauty of the wax paper flower??? wow!! now that is amazing!! how to for instructions.... just pure beauty!!

and...had to have my own tags, typed with the vintage typewriter and glittered.

this kind of stuff is just so fun for me. and i just have to "play". yes, there are other things i should be doing,

and i eventually get to them. but, i have to do this too. it just makes me happy!!

merry christmas!!

Bella Home

2010-12-17T09:08:00.001-05:00

every year when i get my "christmas" out...i play around with new things to do with it.

never the same, but always pretty much the same accessories.

i'm always trying something a little bit new. this year the gum drops seem to be everywhere.

love their color, and they just remind me of childhood.

trees, and garland. (which was a bit of a sticky project)

and who doesn't love getting their scrabble game out and putting little holiday words here and there.

of course i love displaying our cards in my vintage typewriter.

book shelf make into a bar area. for our holiday cheer!

just a few of my favorite things!!

better get back to that list for today.

try this at home-yum!!

2010-12-12T12:35:00.001-05:00

while at the grocery store yesterday getting supplies for cookie baking, i couldn't resist the idea of trying the pumpkin doughnuts in the latest issue of cuisine at home (the best cooking magazine ever)

crazy, yes...

i try these things, make a huge mess and usually regret all the time and effort.

but sometimes....it's an amazing experiment

and this was one of those times.

yum, yum yum

and i wanted to try them for two reasons.

my grandma and mom used to surprise us with "fried dough"

every once in a while when we were kids,(yum!)

and number two... over the summer we had the most amazing doughnuts

while at the art show in lakeside.

and i mean amazing!!

so this morning i started on the pumpkin doughnuts,

and they were pretty easy....and amazing!!

so worth the effort!!

i cant part with any of my cuisine at home back issues.

i keep them in a huge binder and refer to them when i'm in the mood for something new.

i just love them!

just right recipes that are new but not too "out there"

this was a beginning to a beautiful snowy, christmas-y day.

and to top it off, i bought the carpenters christmas cd from i-tunes (my total favorite)

i can no longer put in my cassette tape, so it was time to download.

now off to get the tree.

that's always an interesting "adventure"

winter blooms

2010-12-09T19:54:00.000-05:00

i just can't get enough of these flowers.

i'm on a new design that i really love.

it's a layered design and just a bit softer.

i've also done several different kinds of head bands,

using vintage wallpaper,vintage tape measures and zippers.

the flowers were a fun touch.

linen,flannel,vintage...

this new flower is sooooo lovely!!

it just lays so nicely.

i love love love it on the headband!!

i love the mixes,

am i going a little too far??

is it too much pattern?

no...it's just right.

joy!!

2010-12-07T14:08:00.001-05:00

i love the simplicity of these stamped disks.

just a little whisper about what's in your heart.

xo ~karla

window-shopping

2010-11-29T15:13:00.000-05:00

new windows and pillows for the shop.

i did something different with this window.

in addition to mixing the black and white prints with the color prints, i also used some corrugated cardboard. it works so well with this window,adding texture and a "green" look that goes along great with the subject.

and some fun new holiday pillows.

what's on your wish list?

New from the "workshop"

2010-11-19T12:13:00.000-05:00

getting ready for christmas means logging in many hours in the "workshop".

i love every minute of it.

i'll be giving many bella studio gifts this year. (i'll spare my children...they don't appreciate my handmades)

my favorite new window!! just love the combination of black and white, color and a little corrugated paper.(packing paper from my prints)

happen to have on hand and it just seemed to fit.

from headbands to belts.

everyone should have one this season.

great over my other favorite item....the cardigan sweater.

off to the bead show.

~karla

Holiday Party...Bloosmbury Loft

2010-11-13T16:38:00.000-05:00

magical window...with a silly boy peeking through (hi sam)

a little naughty & nice...aren't we all

silly friends

new holiday cheer for the home....love it!!

sweets, sweets, sweets!
so pretty

holiday garland how-to

2010-11-09T10:05:00.001-05:00

for the holidays i stick w/my favorite colors, pink, red, aqua,gold...softer and always with a bit of glitter.

my holiday garland is made using holiday paper, wallpaper, and christmas cards. (i've always saved my old christmas cards..big surprise) using a circle paper punch, punch out about 100 disks for a 6 foot garland.

use two disks sandwiched together so that your garland is pretty all the way around. place one on top of the other (pretty sides facing out) and start sewing.

i found out the hard way to sew the disks close together...it just helps later to keep the garland from getting all tangled.

another "must"- use some glittery paper every so often. it really gives it that christmas sparkle.

fun.

and easy.

always extra special to decorate your house with those things that are handmade.

especially nice when you can incorporate a little bit of family love.

so...my first how-to.

how did i do?

did i leave anything out?

*carrie (winner of the pillow giveaway)

e-mail me your address. i can't figure out how to find you.

have a good day!

we have a winner

2010-11-05T20:30:00.000-04:00

that was fun!!! such a joy to receive comments.

it's fun to know someone is out there.

and it motivates me to blog more often.

so thank you!

and today after making some "sweet" holiday garland for the shop, i decided to do a how-to on project.

i would have taken a picture, but somehow, misplaced the camera.

heading out tomorrow for a holiday show at St. Peters Catholic Church.

My truck is packed full and i'm hoping it's a good day. (maybe the camera is in there too)

have a good weekend!!

~karla

giveaway!!

2010-11-03T08:39:00.001-04:00

i'm giving away one of my new "sweet" pillows.

all i want from you are comments!!

such a pretty little pillow embroidered with a little message of joy.

say hello, let me know that you're out there.
i'll randomly pick a number for the winning post on friday.

chances are good...i think the odds are in your favor.

come on....you can do it!

~karla

wallpaper project

2010-11-01T14:15:00.000-04:00

the wallpaper project i mentioned is done and turned out absolutely beautiful.
the pictures may not do it justice as i don't think the lighting was quite right...but it really adds that bit of sparkle that i love.

i found the light fixture last year at a flea market and wasn't quite sure where i would put it.
but this spot above the kitchen sink...where i spend soooo much time is perfect!!

it's just a little bit of pattern that looks great with the lemon yellow walls.
yippee!!
now my wheels are turning on what other surprising places i can put my vintage papers.

i just makes me happy!!

a productive day

2010-10-27T17:44:00.000-04:00

3 movies

dan in real life

sweet home alabama

and

jerry McGuire

and this is what i have to show for it.

it's one of my favorite ways to work.

i put in one of the several movies that have become my "work" friends and get busy.

i started with pillows,

(i have a few more but i couldn't make the pillow tower any higher)

continued with stamping

and ended with more pillows.

and what about this crazy mix??

it may be a little too much but i think this leopard livens things up.

it is everywhere this season.

p.s. the new light fixture is up and completely beyond words...i l-o-v-e it!!

i'll post a picture after i get my window treatment back up.

now that the light and wallpaper are up,

the fabric on the roman shade has to be updated.

isn't that always how it is...one project always leads to another.

and....3 comments last post!!!! yippee!!

wallpaper....beautiful wallpaper

2010-10-23T17:45:00.008-04:00

my obsession for vintage wallpaper has been renewed. i found some completely awesome paper at the country living fair that i love, love, love!! since then i've been using it anywhere and everywhere.

a great screen that i'm using in the shop for a backdrop behind our bed....also a great display piece for my purses.

clothes?? yes clothes

but only for "people" that don't mind a few staples.... this turned out so fun. my intention was to create a top out of cut-out wallpaper leaf shapes and ruffle the bottom. but once i started the ruffles...i just kept going. i think it's great! (hello project runway)

more document holders, some with holiday paper that would be great for the christmas receipts.

and my newest favorite....headbands with the flocked paper! so pretty even my daughter likes them, and that's not an easy task.

and one more exciting use...we're putting the pretty yellow/gold paper in the kitchen. above the sink just under a "sweet" vintage light fixture i bought last year at a flea market. that project is actually going on as we "speak". i'll be sure to post a picture. i love when my hubby is up for creative decor, it really makes all the difference in making a house unique and of course, very special.

okay, what about a giveaway? i'm in desperate need of comments! comments and followers. a giveaway would be helpful wouldn't it? a headband, document holder...maybe even a drawstring bag. i'm going to gather my options for the next post. stay tuned!!

just pretty

2010-10-12T08:57:00.000-04:00

frantically getting ready for a big show this weekend at the columbus school for girls.

the show starts on friday and goes through sunday.

its been a challenge to hurry up and make more merchandise after the country living fair.....but i'm getting there.

wish i had tons more table cloths and time....time to make these beautiful ruffles!

i just can't stand it!!

a ruffle makes anything and everything just pretty!!

on a side note....i'm going to take on a new challenge starting next week.

i want followers!

i'm going to get on it.

i'm setting a goal and doing what it takes to find more followers..

it's going to be a good day!!

~karla

new projects for the country living show

2010-09-26T11:09:00.001-04:00

our tent at the show is completely beautiful.

these drapes made from torn fabric are just awesome as a soft colorful backdrop.

i've been busy trying to create something new for country living fair.

my third time taking an upholstery class....and i think i've got it down. (as long as i pick easy projects)

and of course...i have to make my own patchwork.

love the combination of cow hide leather and denim with the french provincial bench.

i think the other students in the class think i'm a little bit crazy.....but i love the combination!!

more simple necklaces with sweet trinkets.

more pictures later....better get to the show.

long day ahead.....so not looking forward to the pack up.

Country Living Fair!!!

2010-09-22T08:48:00.000-04:00

This is the weekend!!! September 24,25 and 26th
Lots of creating has been going on and it about time to pack up and hit the road.
Such an awesome show!!

Everything is displayed so beautifully and the selections are great! Just the right mix of vintage, handmades, unique shops, yummy food and even some country living celebrities.

bloomsbury loft is always just bursting with shoppers. It is just so exciting!!
I've been working on a few new goodies for the show including some new upholstered pieces i did in a cool patchwork design, new jewelry designs, and some exciting new headbands.

i have so many more things i "think" i'm going to work on before the start of the show on friday morning....but i doubt i'll get very far. (maybe i'll pull an all-night-er tonight) wouldn't that be fun before a set up day?

i'm definitely wearing one of my pretty aprons this weekend. that's one of the things i especially love about this show....the people there are just like me. (a little quirky about things like aprons)

and so much fun....see you at the fair

~karla

oh joy!!

2010-09-17T08:18:00.001-04:00

i'm loving this new blog i discovered today. found it in a magazine with a list of some great blogs to follow.

how will i ever get anything done??

and this new magazine???

i'm in trouble...

a beautiful bride!!

2010-09-16T11:52:00.004-04:00

thank you colby for sending this beautiful (bella) photo from your wedding day.

colby asked me to make her a flower for her wedding day using fabric pieces from her grandmother's dress and handkerchief. (making something beautiful with that little bit of treasure in it makes it soooooo much better)

okay, this is just amazing!! i love love love it!!
exciting to have a tiny part in the wedding ensemble.

congratulations mr. and mrs.

bella bloomsbury!!

2010-09-07T23:35:00.000-04:00

bloomsbury loft at its best...

and in a part of town that is just a fun place to be!!

the wall paper wall is awesome...i really want one at home.

somehow i don't think that's going to happen.

but i do have my favorite patchwork style sprinkled about in small doses.

new merchandise is looking it's best too with these high ceilings and wide open spaces.

have i mentioned how much i love this new space?

and the address....745 n. high st. columbus, ohio

now that everything is in place,

it's just about time to take most of it down,

pack it up and head out the the Country Living Fair.

September 24th 25th and 26th

We work really hard !

And all because we want to keep doing what we love.

good night

pretty little things!

2010-08-25T11:12:00.001-04:00

a couple of my new necklaces....the sterling photo balls are a real treasure.

inside unfolds little spaces for photos,little messages, pretty paper...

and i'm always loving trinkets, lockets and treasures on a simple ball chain.

just pretty!!

For Hire

2010-08-18T09:34:00.001-04:00

for hire....
it's time for me to find a job so that i can continue to do what i truly love.

Bloomsbury Loft has moved out of  powell and will re-open in the very near future in a new home....
(we're actually starting to move in today.....so excited and soooooo scared!!)

our new location....the short north!! a beautiful space with great light, hard wood floors and a tin ceiling. completely perfect and close to other great shops and restaurants.

have i mentioned i'm excited and completely scared!!

the scary part is it's time to focus on my work- and not just the creative part. (that part i've got covered)

the creative part calms me when i'm stressed about the shop, family, finances...whatever.
i find comfort in creating.
i go to the safety of my studio (the basement) and forget about the stress.
i start sewing, designing, and working on projects.

but it's time to face the reality of my work life.
i need to contribute to our family finances more seriously. to work on my dream job so that it actually brings in some money and to find a job at the same time. it's time to sell my handmades in ways i've been resisting.
for example:
    listing items on etsy (currently 4 6 items listed)
    approaching shops that might be interested in selling my handmades
    applying for art festivals and shows
    getting my blog going.
    spending time posting and working the potential of a blog.

and all that needs to be done in addition to finding real work. work that provides a check at the end of the week. something i can count on while i'm "moonlighting" in the studio.
so....what do i have to offer?

creativity- i'm confident in my sense of style. i love to mix color and pattern to create an exciting tension.
i have the ability to translate the beautiful mix of color, texture and pattern to the task at hand.

i have a style that is comfortable, meaningful and always a little playful (something that just makes you smile).the complete opposite of overworked and pretentious.

i love working with design, display, and all kinds of creative challenges including sewing, painting, jewelry design, and the re-design of salvage materials including windows,doors...

great attention to detail- it's in the details that good design becomes exciting.

resourceful-very capable of making the most of materials on hand. good problem solver.

practical experience-real life experience in design, visual display, treasure hunting, jewelry design and small business management.

self-taught and motivated- book smarts and "street" smarts- library enthusiast and magazine obsessed
-i have the ability to translate a project to fit the situation with materials available.

so.........what can i do with that?
it's time....actually, a little past time.
but, as i said, i'm resourceful...i'll keep working on projects, spreading the word and filling out those applications. (i like the idea of substitute teaching...) can i start tomorrow??

so there it is....this is who i am
any ideas?

~karla

My new hippie bags....

2010-08-12T15:10:00.001-04:00

i been working on these bags for the last two days. some changes to the first set i made.

leather bottoms, great for a fall look and more durable. inside are pockets and a handy key strap.

another new addition to these bags...crystal rivets

everything should have a little accessory.

another one of my new obsessions, fabric tassels.

beautiful hung in so many surprising places

doors and knobs

luggage handles

gift bag handles

chair backs

chandeliers

wine bottles (so pretty when giving as a gift)

my family just loves it when i'm ripping fabric while we're watching tv.

i can't help it....i like busy work.

~karla

sew busy!

2010-08-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

i know its been a while since my last post...but i have been working.
two days and 7 new "hippie" bags. (not quite finished, but getting there)
i might have to keep one of them for myself... too many little imperfections.i love when that happens

i really feel like i've got some great fabric combinatins going on.
i'll have to do a "photo shoot" tomorrow and put them on etsy.

trying to get as much done as possible this week preparing for an art festival in yellow springs on saturday.

i love this combination....

~karla

p.s. new facebook page...do you "like" bella studio

i'm in love!!

2010-07-30T11:16:00.000-04:00

i 'm in love with my updated document holders.

you know, a very pretty pouch to put in your purse.

a pouch to hold all those pesky receipts, coupons and odds and ends that you don't want flying all over the place.

i actually have one of these in my purse filled with important documents and still have papers flying all over the place.

but...i love to see it in there when i'm rummaging around for something...usually my keys.

anyway, i made these before with vintage wallpaper, an inspiration after a friend gave me one for christmas.

but these are just sending me over the edge...

i've used pages from some of the french magazines my daughter brought home from france, catalogue pages, fabric and vintage wallpaper.

all tied up with a beautiful ribbon to keep everything inside.

they are beautiful and functional.

the best of both worlds!

and now, even though i should be getting ready for a weekend of camping,

all i want to do is make more.

but instead, i'm going to blog and put them in my etsy store.

i've got to get that going.

then i'll start packing...

i wish i could work on these at the campsite. (but, that would make a certain someone very unhappy)

soooooo pretty!

A weekend at the lake

2010-07-26T16:42:00.003-04:00

Lakeside, Ohio

lakeside is a completely beautiful little beach town on lake erie.

little shops and restaurants,

shuffleboard,

sail boats,

beaches,

farmer's market,

a one movie movie theater,

free evening activities.... all so easy.

and instead of the streets being crowded with cars, they are full of bicycles and golf carts.

what i love most about it is the pure simplicity.

it reminds me of my own beach vacations as a kid. we'd spend the day at cedar point and occasionally stay in a cottage for a few days.

i was also fortunate to have a friend that took me along on their beach vacations to bay point.

two weeks every summer...now that was the life!! (thanks sharon)

i just can't think of a better place to do an art festival!

i loved, loved, loved my space!

three days with this view.... and the people were sooooo nice!

it was just awesome!

even with the crazy heat, wind and storms, (lost another tent in the wind storm friday night)

i had such a fun weekend! (my family did too)

i'm also motivated to get my handmades in my etsy shop. i don't think the 4 things i have on there are really making an impact. it's time to get to work on that.

my pretty vintage schwinn bicycle was a huge hit at the show, of course it embarrassed my kids, but that's nothing new.

thanks lakeside...see you next year.

time to get to work on the etsy shop.

happy birthday beth!!

2010-07-19T15:34:00.000-04:00

surprise!!!

your birthday present on line!!

i just know your going to love this "peace" pillow i made for your special day.

since we weren't able to get together for your b-day lunch,

and i know you occasionally check my blog...

i thought this would be a fun surprise.

comfy, down to earth and hip

fits you to a tee.

but let's still get together for that lunch date,

i hate to miss an opportunity to enjoy an afternoon chatting and eating.

happy birthday!!

xo karla

Bon jour....

2010-07-08T11:01:00.000-04:00

Through my daughter....

I went to France.

I got to experience the before trip excitement, and preparations.

The anxiety of staying with an unknown family for 2 weeks,

and not knowing a single word of French.

The thrill of day to day exploring

little French towns, cafes, rocky French beaches,

and to top it off,

an entire weekend in Paris.

And the food....so much of her trip was about the food.

chocolate croissants and warm milk

cheese and french bread

crepes,

Nutella,

waffles,

Nutella,

and did I mention....Nutella

She made new friends,

experienced the routine of a new family,

and traveled across the ocean to experience a place she has never been.

When I grow up...I want to do that too!

She brought some sweet treasures home from her trip,

a great dress, a leather purse, a cotton scarf....(completely love it!)

french magazines, candy, coffee and grenadine??? syrup that is mixed with water.

That's the closest I've come to France.

And I'm thrilled that she had the opportunity to go and share it with us.

Traveling is such a beautiful way to grow.

I dream of going myself someday.

My Favoite kind of Summer Fun!!

2010-06-30T18:16:00.000-04:00

i love these long summer days.

being outside on a beautiful day just makes me happy...

working on projects, reading a good book, running, eating lunch on the patio, napping on a "sweet" beach chair (above)...i just love it all!

enjoy your day!

Art Affair

2010-06-14T19:45:00.000-04:00

This weekend was the Grandville Art Affair and Wine Festival in Granville, Ohio

So many artists to enjoy and the property, The Bryn Du Mansion,

was a completely beautiful setting for this event.

I saw my first polo match on Sunday morning, a weekly event in Granville.

Lots of pretty little treasures

flower pins...of course

leather headbands (and some made from men's ties)

drawstring bags...sold three of them

little birds

pillows, pillows, pillows

dishtowels

pillowcases

aprons

lampshades "bella style"(with flowers)...

And even though it has rained almost everyday this week and last, we were pretty lucky with the weather.

Always threatening, but just a tiny bit of rain.

Windy, but not enough to blow the "house" down.

I was very determined to get this table cloth done before the show.

I've been meaning to make something like this,

but as always....I needed the deadline looming to get on it.

And this time it worked out.

It is beautiful if I do say so myself....

totally love the look!!

So surprised and excited to see my favorite photographer at the show....

amy parrish.

she was so sweet to snap some photos.

I just can't get over how awesome they are!

wow!

The color, the detail.....it's just such a gift!

(can't wait to see what she can do for Mackenzie's senior pictures)