knack

FYI

2012-01-31T02:00:00.000-05:00

Some of you might remember that I had to say goodbye to my furry pal "lizzie" in September. I miss her, and I miss having a dog in the house.

My 13 year old daughter "B" is a huge animal lover, and she has just applied to volunteer at our local humane society. It is a beautiful, no kill shelter that we are really proud of.

So....... we have found ourselves "needing" to pop by there more often these days.....and whenever we are there, I always stop in to see all the babies......and this one almost came home with me.....but I am not sure I am ready yet.

.....i may go back and get her .....jury is still out.....

.....my husband says that the humane society is the most dangerous place for my daughter "B" and I to be....and he is totally right....we may end up bringing them all home :)

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2012-01-30T16:39:00.001-05:00

It literally pains me to not be able to show you all the studio, and all of the goodness going on in there! It seems like no matter what angle I put on the camera....secrets are in every corner, and they must remain secret for a little while longer......

.....but I captured this shot of the new red wire chairs available at Knack, and the octagon shaped mirror that is back in stock as well......and that is all I can manage for now.

We are on the last big push for the book deadlines over these next two weeks, and that is why things are a bit different around the blog lately. However, over the weekend I secured some gorgeous pieces to start working on for Knack, and hope to have some new Introductions ready in a couple weeks!

Hope you have had a great Monday so far!

xo,

Barb

Etc

2012-01-27T08:23:00.000-05:00

Exciting things came in the mail yesterday! Colorful happenings that I can't wait to get my hands on and style with some Knack goodness!

I hope you all have had a fantastic week! Happy weekending!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2012-01-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

This week has certainly kept me hopping, but this little vignette at the studio actually made me stop....sit down, peruse one of my favorite books, by one of my favorite friends.....and enjoy a juicy clementine while I was at it.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2012-01-25T02:00:00.000-05:00

via pinterest

Word.

xo,

Barb

FYI

2012-01-24T02:00:00.000-05:00

Saw these erasers at Target the other day, and I had to laugh.

If I was writing my book manuscript on paper, I would have totally purchased them :) I think it would be fun to write something nutty.....just so I would have to erase it with my nifty "argh" eraser!

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2012-01-23T02:00:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend I had a date night with my little "B". We went to Starbucks for our favorite drinks, and then to Old Navy so we could spend our gift cards from Christmas. When we arrived, there was a huge sale going on! Things were marked down to like 3.50 and then they were an extra 50 % off! It was kind of crazy....I don't know that I have hit a sale like that in a very long time, and we both left with bags stuffed full of goodies.

One of the pieces that I purchased, {which was not on sale, but I just could not pass it up!} was the red dog shirt pictured above. I wish there was a back view, because it v's in the back and then ties in a bow. It is so quirky, but so cute.....and that is just the sort of piece I am a sucker for.

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2012-01-20T09:45:00.001-05:00

More photos today....and I will just go ahead and say that there are a lot of shoots between now and early February....so if I disappear for a week or two....you will know where to find me! I am treasuring every minute of this experience, and am so thankful beyond words for those that have partnered with me in this journey.

I want you all to know that my husband is the best man in the entire world. I just could not do all of this without his love, support, and hard work! I love you JB!

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Barb

Found goodness

2012-01-19T09:03:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm a little late this morning :) We had a fantastic photo shoot yesterday....we worked for 6 hours straight, and my whole body hurts today....but it is a good hurt. The styling came together beautifully, and I am coming out of my skin looking at the images that were captured. Things are starting to heat up my friends! Woot!

These sweet little spinning tops, that I found in a box at a garage sale, are goodness indeed...and just you wait and see where they were destined to show up.

Have a great day!

{P to the S ...you get a sneak peek at my studio floor that I decided to paint 1 hour before the photo shoot! It is a giant triangle, and then the words "see the sun".}

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2012-01-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

via pinterest

...makes all the difference in the world...

xo,

Barb

FYI

2012-01-17T09:32:00.001-05:00

via pinterest


via pinterest

Gorgeous color and patterns that are inspiring me today....and everyday.

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2012-01-16T08:46:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting one of these fellas for a while, and I finally decided it was time to make a purchase for the studio. This plant is called a stag fern, because when mounted on the wall it takes on the appearance of a deer head with antlers. Do you see it? The plant pod in the center looks like the head, and the foliage looks like a crazy gazillion point rack!

I need a name for this guy...as he will be a friend to " Morris " the moose. I have a few ideas already, but would love to hear what greatness you all come up with today!

Hope it is a great Monday for you all! I am gearing up for two photo shoots this week....so I'm off and running!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2012-01-13T02:00:00.000-05:00

This morning I'm headed to ATL ~~with my pal Lily,~~ to hit up the market.....explore a new, exciting place called "the goat farm".....where there are over 300 artists studios {including some of my pals}....dance studios, galleries, and on top of all that, it really is an organic working farm!

I have been wanting to check it out from the moment I heard about it....so now is my chance! I also hope to hit up "sun in my belly", and grab a bite to eat....but I may be trying to fill a day with more than possible.....we'll see. I'm game.....but my body may tell me other wise! {wink!}

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend!

{update: pal is sick....headed down solo....but am excited to see what awaits me in this day!}

xo,

Barb

Found {in the mail} goodness

2012-01-12T18:32:00.003-05:00

The mail was full of goodness today!! Special paper {not pictured} for special, secret projects......the feather print I ordered, which is even more fantastic in person......and lavender cookies from the sweet Sara of Girls Can Tell! Woot!

goodness.goodness.goodness.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2012-01-11T07:12:00.002-05:00

image via here

Seriously.....don't forget, it is so very important!

Barb

tids and bits

2012-01-10T12:03:00.000-05:00

sweet studio vignette.... neglected, but shedding light anyway

yes, I still have them, stacked.....and staying forever!


Threw all of this paper off the wagon yesterday during the photo shoot, while looking for that one specific paper....but this kind of mess that produced frustration yesterday...produced inspiration today.

...that's all for now.

Barb

A day in the life....

2012-01-09T08:43:00.000-05:00

I am going to change things up a bit for the next few weeks. I am spending every waking minute {and some "when I should be sleeping" moments} that I have on the book. My manuscript is due TOMORROW! I am so excited to have this huge, huge task completed and ready for turn in......now, let the editing marathon begin! {wink!}

I can't slow up after tomorrow though because all of my photographs are due February 1, and this is an even greater task. I will need to focus everything I have for the next three weeks on finishing, styling, photographing, documenting, labeling.....etc.

So I will try to keep things exciting and moving here with daily photographs and tidbits from the world of Knack. I am sorry that I don't have a new Introduction for you all today, but all the pieces I am cranking out at the moment are secret treasures that will be revealed in due time!

Have a great day, and enjoy this photo of my daily routine. Day 9 of my photo a day project.

Barb

Etcetera

2012-01-06T08:30:00.003-05:00

print available at groundwork

Well, we made it to Friday! It has been a super busy week for me as my book manuscript is due in 4 days!! {oh. my. goodness. I can't believe it!} I have also been preparing for a photo shoot that will take place today, and another on Monday. The book is all consuming right now....as it should be..... and I just wish this sick feeling that I am going to forget something, leave something major out, or just plain flake ....would go away! I am so glad I am working with a fantastic publisher, and group of editors. They make me work extra hard, but it is all for the good!

I hope you all have a great weekend, and that it is filled with good things!

{p.s I just ordered the feather print above, because it is fabulous...and you may see it in the book as well. I'm hoping to channel some flight from these feathers today! hah! }

Barb

Found goodness

2012-01-05T02:00:00.000-05:00

photos via sarah simpson from renew studios

I eyed this sweet, wooden handled, vintage set of screw drivers for a couple months....and then I asked for them to be waiting for me under the Christmas tree { I know, I know....I can hear your snickers and hee haws!} and crossed my fingers.

Guess what? They were indeed under the tree, and dude.... I just love them! The wood handles are all so beautiful with their aged patinas, paint drops, and cut out details.

I took them down to the studio yesterday and hung them on the peg board with all the other tools......they are definitely the coolest tools in the studio right now.

Thank you honey!

Barb

Quotage

2012-01-04T02:00:00.000-05:00

print available here

I spent a bit of time this past year not taking this advice! Among the many great and wonderful things that happened, there were also struggles, poor decisions, and learning curves. I found myself constantly fretting in my mind about problems and outcomes that were beyond my control, therefore robbing myself of enjoying the many other things that mattered so much more!

One of my goals for 2012 is to try to "be present" in every day, and to pay attention to what really matters.....letting all else reveal itself in due time.

Barb

FYI

2012-01-03T02:00:00.000-05:00

You all know how much I love taking daily photographs, and breathing in the small details of the world around me.....so it should come as no surprise that I am taking this photo a day challenge for 2012! I just found out about it today, so I have some catch up to do! I will do day 1, 2 and 3 today....{shhhh don't tell!} I plan on posting all of my photos on my Knack Facebook page, and would love it if you would join me!

Barb

Introductions

2012-01-02T02:00:00.000-05:00

Well, hello, hello! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas season, and enjoyed some very happy New Years festivities. Our Christmas activities were very low key this year due to my family being all over the US of A, and my sweet mom having hip replacement surgery. I enjoyed taking the time off to spend with her, and I got to see both of my brothers when they came for visits. It would have been perfect if I could have hugged my sisters neck, but soon.....I will get to do that , and meet my new little nephew Job.

I did get to hug and kiss on my new little niece, Jarynne. She is absolutely a puddin' and I couldn't get enough of her sweet face. There is just nothing like sweet new babies. I feel so blessed to have the family that I have, and am thankful in this new year that my mom is on the road to recovery and pain free days. It has been so hard to watch her over the past year, and see the severe pain she was in......I am so glad that is behind us in 2011!

So, I start out this New Year with much gratitude.....and of course it wouldn't be complete without an introduction! So, without further ado, I would like to introduce you all to the first piece of the New Year......"Jabulela" .

I know, it's a mouthful, but it means "happy", or "be happy"....and I think that is a great way to start out this year.

Miss Jabulela is available for purchase locally at Antiques on Augusta, and can also be purchased directly through me.

xo,

Barb

{ Purchase price 695.00, shipping available nationwide 250.00}

Merry, merry

2011-12-23T02:00:00.000-05:00

Found Goodness

2011-12-22T00:11:00.001-05:00

This week, while cleaning out a piece and prepping it for transformation.....I found this sweet little key. I literally paused, and said {out loud} "Awww, so cute". I then proceeded to have a photoshoot complete with flower shaped pine cones.

I know, I have a problem.

What. have. ya.

Here's to finding good things that make you say "aww".

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-12-21T02:00:00.000-05:00

for. reals.

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-12-20T02:00:00.000-05:00

Just in case you didn't already know.....I love my studio so much, and do not take it lightly that I have such a beautiful space to create in. I am so thankful for this place, the light, the space, the solitude, and the exciting ventures that take place within these walls.

....and it's a good thing to, because I spend a lot of time here! I may have to bring a sleeping bag down over the next couple of months as I enter the intense "push for the finish line" phase for the book........and you think I'm joking! I most certainly am not.

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-12-19T02:00:00.000-05:00

Meet "Gerda"! This is one of those pieces where the design plan came so easy to me, and was exciting from the first dip of the paint brush to the last drawer liner! Love how she turned out, and love the wallpaper!

"Gerda" is available for sale locally at Antiques on Augusta, or you can email me directly if you would like to purchase her .

xo,

Barb

{Price is 695.00 plus shipping and handling 200- 250.00}

Etcetera

2011-12-16T08:30:00.002-05:00

It's Friday!!......and the weekend before Christmas! Woot! I will be "photoshooting" with Aaron for most of the day today in the studio, so it is a super busy day....but, I am looking forward to my sweet daughter "B" turning 13 this weekend! We will have festivities like ice skating, and cup caking.....and all of that fun stuff! I can't believe I now have two teenagers! It's crazy.....but crazy is what I do!

Hope you all have a great weekend!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-12-15T02:00:00.000-05:00

.....some of you know that we had to say goodbye to our dog in September. Her body gave up, and she was in immense pain......it was so hard, and I still come in the garage door carefully because I know she is waiting for me on the other side. I miss her sweet soul.

So, when my wonderful and talented friend Annie {check out her beautiful work!} stopped by the studio last week, and brought me this terrarium with a Christmas tree and a golden dog.......I was so touched, and it is seriously the sweetest thing ever. I cherish it, and looking at it this Christmas will make things a little brighter!

I truly am blessed with the best friends, and am so thankful for this kind of goodness and love.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-12-14T02:00:00.000-05:00


via pinterest

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-12-13T02:00:00.000-05:00

I painted a quote on my son's wall this past weekend. It's a little bit funky, with a little crazy horizontal stripe pattern going on, but that is to be expected around here, right? You'll need some Knack esme green paint, frog tape, and a level to make sure your "stripes" are straight!

This quote, "lead courageously", comes from a study that my husband and son attend together through our church. I love the meaning behind it, and it is something motivational that we can all look at and be inspired by on a daily basis.

I have to say, I'm pleased as punch with how it all came together.

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-12-12T02:00:00.000-05:00

Ladies and gents, won't you all please give a warm welcome to "Jenkins". This piece had me from the moment I saw her, but then when all the poetic papers fell out of her drawer....I was officially a goner.

I didn't want anything too fancy for this piece, so I used milk paint in layers to give a time worn look, lined the drawer with Miss Jenkins poems, and then finished off with a sparkly knob.

Done deal.

{The little felt bowl and bird paintings are from my personal collection. The bowl was purchased here, and the bird paintings are available through local artist Diane Kilgore here.}

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-12-09T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today, I will hopefully be finishing up this piece

...and this piece

seriously....for real.

I have been working on these three all week, and am super excited about how they are coming together! One of these three will be up on Monday!

I hope you all have a restful weekend! I am kicking my weekend off with a hot date night out with JB......add a little Chinese food and Christmas shopping....and you can't go wrong with any of that!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-12-08T02:00:00.000-05:00

I scored some fantastic pieces at an estate sale this past weekend, and as I started working on one of the little nightstands......out fell all of these perfectly folded papers that were yellowed and browned to perfection. As I looked closer, i discovered that they were poems and verses written in the prettiest handwriting.

I had been struggling with inspiration this week as I contemplated the design plan for my new pieces....{it's been rainy here for days}.....but, all it took was these sweet words from the estate of a 104 year old lady about Autumn, smiles, and faith to get things movin' and groovin'.

....and guess what will line the drawer of this sweet piece?

Yep, you know it!.....and you can read the "smiles" poem any time you please when you open the drawer. I am almost done with this transformation, and will introduce her to you on Monday!

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-12-07T02:00:00.000-05:00

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-12-06T02:00:00.000-05:00

Just in case Santa Claus reads my blog....I want him to know that it is taking every bit of will power that I have to not purchase this book before Christmas! I am such a fan of miss Sibella Court, and her latest book is a stunner!

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-12-05T08:55:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! I am excited to tell you about a little paint developement today! A few years ago, I came across a couple "oops" paint colors that I absolutely loved, so I scooped them up, and have used them over and over. These colors became two of my Knack basics. I started receiving several requests for these paint colors, with the most requests coming in for my famous green. I listened to those requests as they came in, and thought it would be a good idea to move towards having these colors formulated, so that I could share them with all of you. I am happy to say, that we have a couple winners!

Introducing... Knack Esme Green

and

Knack Wyatt Gray!

These two colors can be shipped directly to you from Knack, and are mixed and formulated in Benjamin Moore's Aura paint. I have really enjoyed working with this paint, and it is my choice for these exclusive colors. It is creamy, but not thick, ultra pigmented, self priming, green, and provides fantastic coverage. All of that equals greatness to me!

This is by no means a full on color line by Knack, but rather a dipping my fingers into the world of creating original paint colors, and an exciting first step. Color is such a huge passion of mine, and paint is just a little bit of a passion too! {wink!}

If you would like to purchase either color, email : barb@knackstudios.com

I will be happy to get it shipped right out to you! Gallon prices are 64.00 plus shipping and handling.

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-12-02T02:00:00.000-05:00

lily showing off her antler

flowers by amy osaba

lunch list

the fabulous aaron greene, photographer for the knack book....and jeff hall, photographer. Proudly showing off the arrangements they picked out for their lovely wives .....awww!


more amy osaba goodness

shawew!

....Just a few peeks from the photo shoot this week! Thank you so much to Aaron Greene, Amy Osaba, Jeff Hall, Lily Wikoff, and my sweetheart Jon Blair for being a part of this special, special project! You all are amazing!

Have a great weekend friends!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-12-01T02:00:00.000-05:00

I have a sweet friend named Lily , {go get lost in her creative world when you are done here!}, and while she was out of town last week she came across this amazing little set of dollhouse furniture! She didn't even ask me if I wanted it. She didn't have to, because she knew I would go all nutty! So, like the smarty pants amazing friend that she is.....she bought it all for me....miniature pots and pans to boot......and I love her for it!

How great is the little turquoise trunk?!....and the red velvet couch?.....say what?! I am totally going to revamp the little table and chairs, and the bench with the hearts. Never know what will become of these little guys! I think it will be great fun to have a little mini Knack hangin' around!

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-11-30T02:00:00.000-05:00

print available through society 6

FYI

2011-11-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

Did you all know, that you can turn your Instagram photos into magnets? Woot! I take photos with Instagram almost every day, and I swear this is the best news since......um....?....

Anyway, there is this awesome site called StickyGram that has "got it going on"! In only a few short minutes you can arrange a collection of photos, load them up in your cart, and just like that, your photos are on their way! Costs are very reasonable at 14.99 for a set of 9, shipping is free anywhere in the world, and the site is super user friendly.

These little photo magnet collections would make awesome Christmas gifts! I just ordered my first set to see what I think.....and am totally stoked! Can't wait to get them!

Just thought I would pass this along!

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-11-28T02:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you had a great Thanksgiving, and a fantastic long weekend! I enjoyed my break ....and therefore am ready to hit it this week! I'm starting things off with a big photo shoot for the book tomorrow, and I will also get cranking on some new furniture pieces as well. I have been painting a lot.....and hope to get more done that I can actually show you, over the next week or so.

To tide you over though, I want to introduce you to my new shoes! I haven't bought a new pair of shoes since my 14.99 sandals at the beginning of the Summer....and I am not a big purchaser of shoes usually....but the craziest thing happened this weekend that I must tell you about. When I find myself in Virginia, I do not miss a chance to head over to the Jcrew clearance store, and this trip was no different.....that is until we drove up to the store and there were cars everywhere! You could hardly find a place to park....and I immediately knew that I had happened upon the sample sale that they hold only a couple of times a year. It. Was. Crazy.

I only had about 40 minutes before I had to meet a friend for lunch, so I thought I would just pop in....but let me tell you...from the moment they handed me my humongo plastic bag, and price sheet I knew I was in trouble. It was a bit overwhelming to walk into the warehouse and see box after box of clothes, jewelry, accessories, shoes......so I went for what I was most interested in, {and that which I usually can't even come close to affording}, which is the shoes. It took me about 10 minutes to find these beauties, in a soft brown Italian leather

.... I knew by the time I went to the sorting table, had my paper marked, and then waited in line to pay, they were the only thing I would be walking out with. I loved them, and decided to make them my one find....but secretly hoped i would be able to go back and shop with no time limit. Well, I did get to go back....and I headed straight for the shoes again! This time I found one...yes, one.... of these gray suede beauties

...but after searching, and searching....and searching for the mate....I told one of the workers {who had been helping me look} that I hated to give up, but I just was tired of looking. He was so very nice and told me to leave my number, and he would try to find it for me. I thought...."hmmm, I don't know how you are going to do that, but sure!"..... you know what? He called me the next day, and said that he had found the mate, and they were waiting for me at the register! Is that not the coolest thing? If you could have seen this warehouse..... all the people, boxes, clothes and craziness....I mean, I don't even know how he found that shoe...but he did, and I think he is awesome for going that extra mile for me.

You know the other cool thing about all this shoe nonsense? Each pair was only 40.00...yeah, that's right.....and at this very moment, the boots are on the Madewell website for 178.00 , and the heels are on sale for 79.99 {original price 228.00!}

Gotta love it!

xo,

Barb

Grateful

2011-11-21T02:00:00.000-05:00

image via pinterest

I will be, and I will be grateful for this week, this month, this year, this life, this abundance of goodness, this everything....the good, the bad, the broken, the ugly......because all of it shapes and molds, and brings forth transformation.

....

It has been a very busy past couple of weeks here at Knack, and this week, I will be heading out of town with my family to celebrate Thanksgiving. I want to take this week to completely unplug, reflect, laugh, love, pack suitcases, eat derby pie, shove some mashed potatoes down JB's shirt, have impromptu dance parties in the car, watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, hit the JCrew clearance store, wear fuzzy socks, and take a million pictures.

I hope you all do a lot of the same, and I will be back next week!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-11-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

It's the little things, like this tin full of awesome knobs....

that arrived in the mail...

from a bosom friend...

that I have yet to meet in person...

that totally rock my face off!

Have a rootin' tootin' weekend, yo!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-11-17T02:00:00.000-05:00

I have been on the hunt for some really awesome, fantastic, and mind blowing stools for my new desk area at the studio. Let's just say that while doing some ordering for Knack, I came across these babies.....and I think the red will do just fine. Two for me.......and how many for you? hmmm?

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-11-16T02:00:00.001-05:00

FYI

2011-11-15T08:28:00.001-05:00

I had a little moment of "not so genius" yesterday when I quickly, and with all the confidence in the world, applied a "clear" poly to a white wallpapered piece. YIKES! Sure wish I had remembered that this particular can was used on a black project last time, and even though I love the shade of gray that came through......not what I was going for with this particular piece.

Fyi, note to self....good to know, and all of that jazz. I will be honest and say that I had to leave the studio for a bit.....since I have already spent many hours on this piece.......but, today I am back at it with fresh eyes, and it's all going to work out just fine.#New plan.

Here's to problem solving, and makin' it work!

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-11-14T02:00:00.000-05:00

This past week was full of Open Studios, a speaking engagement, and an art show at Knack. All went very well, but kept me super busy. Since the studio had to stay set up in "pretty mode", there wasn't a whole lot of painting that went on. I am anxious to get back to the work that I love this week, and be covered in paint!

For today though, I want to introduce you to my newly filled and styled booth at Antiques on Augusta! I spent most of the day on Friday loading and unloading from studio to the booth.....and then trying to arrange and rearrange. I swear that sometimes I lose my brain, and cannot style the way that I want to....but thankfully my friends Barry and Sam stepped in and saved the day! They helped me move one piece, and then it all just clicked and came together magically after that. Thank goodness for fresh eyes!

This week I will be busily getting ready for the first big styled shoot for the Knack book! The photo shoot will take place on November 29th. I have much work to do, and many supplies and styling accessories to pull together, but I am going to enjoy every minute of it. I will also be working on a couple new furniture pieces for Knack. From here on out, the book will fill my plate....and I plan to devote all of my creative time and energy into producing something really special. It is important to me to create this work, not only for others, but for my children...and their children.....and hopefully many generations of creatives to come.

Have a dandy Monday!

xo,

Barb

oopsie......

2011-11-11T09:20:00.001-05:00

In the craziness of this week, I forgot to let you all know the winner of the Stacey Winters heart photograph contest! Stacey took care of drawing the name and making all of the arrangements....all I had to do was announce.......For goodness sake.......

Well....Rebekah from Honey Suckle Life is the winner! Congrats, girl!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-11-11T08:40:00.001-05:00

Where do I even start with how beautiful last night was? We had a wonderful turnout, with a packed studio for most of the night....super delicious food made by my dear friend Renee, music, and beautiful, colorful artwork everywhere! However, I think the best part of the night for me was this:

...After everyone had gone and we were all about to say our goodbyes...{which was took forever because we didn't want to let each other go!}...Elizabeth Foster wanted to sit down and sing with my daughter Brynn. We have Elizabeth's cd, and Brynn knows almost every word of every song. So the two of them picked a song, Elizabeth got out her guitar, and away they went. By the end of the song everyone was in tears....it was the most beautiful thing to hear two voices...one of them my flesh and blood....singing a gorgeous melody. My little B has not stopped smiling. It. was. amazing.

Thank you Elizabeth, Sarah, and Julie Lee for your music, your faith, and what you have invested in all of us who were lucky enough to spend an evening with you.

Have a wonderful weekend, my crazy friends!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-11-10T11:41:00.001-05:00

...so sorry for the late post, but it is crazy busy in here today as we hang the artwork for tonight's show! It is looking amazing!

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-11-09T02:00:00.000-05:00

via pinterest

Word.

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-11-08T07:03:00.003-05:00

hello, this is my place.

the most beautiful man in the world

new chair. couldn't get enough of the color.

favorite spot.

turquoise bed

my friend morgan found this for me, and delivered. now my dining room wall will say "eat".

my work table


more flower goodness

...just a few snippets from the open studios weekend that I just had at Knack. It was beautiful outside, colorful and happy inside, and just a really great weekend.

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-11-07T02:00:00.000-05:00

Meet "Evenrue".

She's a gem of a gal, and these knobs were made for her.

Stoked.

xo,

Barb

hey!

2011-11-04T02:00:00.000-04:00

I'm the Stacey behind Stacey Winters Photography. Along with photography I enjoy creating handmade items and am a huge fan of Barb...in every single way! As a guest blogger over here at Knack I'm going to share some photography tips that I have gathered along the way.

Usually the first question I get is what camera are you using and what lens do you go to most often so we'll start there. I work with a Canon 5D and am in love with my 100mm macro lens. I use it for most everything aside from people portraits. For portrait sessions I bring my 35mm, 24-105mm and 200mm.

an iPhone photo, boca sparkles added in picture show then filtered in instagram and printed on 5x5 metallic paper

For my everyday carry along the iPhone is quickly becoming an addiction especially when mixed with instagram or picture show. I've recently started printing them and plan to add them to the shop soon.

Capturing an image in natural light is essential for me. The early morning sunlight is quite beautiful. I work in a room with a large window that gathers the light and pours it in for inside objects. Just by stepping out my front door I see nature up close and am awed by the tiny details. Experiment by moving around the subject rather than moving the subject to see how the light is enhancing the item.

A few more things I do and use:

It's always good to frame your shot and then take one step closer.
When shooting a product you can make it personal by just holding it in your hand and having a little bit of yourself in the frame.
Printing for me ranges from home printer (an Epson Stylus Photo printer) to Costco to WHCC. If the colors on your computer are not matching your prints you'll want to calibrate your monitor.
Working in Photoshop or beginning in Photoshop Elements is a fun way to play in the "digital darkroom."
Once you feel comfortable in Photoshop applying actions to your images can enhance your already beautiful images.
Don't delete anything in the camera until you've gotten home and taken a look at all the images, sometimes a little gem is in there when you see it on the big screen.

Oh Goodie...A Giveaway!

♡

In celebration of Knack's love of photography and creative ventures I'm offering the 5x5 heart balloon print in a giveaway. Leave a comment here along with your contact info by 11.9.11 and a winner will be drawn.

Thank you so much Barb! It was a treat to be your guest today!!

finished product....

2011-11-03T18:31:00.001-04:00

I couldn't resist posting these finished shots....I just love the way these guys turned out!

Ok, I'm done now! :)

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-11-03T02:00:00.000-04:00

I've been working on the 2011 Knack Christmas "ornamentals", and I can't wait to finish them up today and hang them on the trees for the big show this weekend! These are totally found goodness {cut up spindles}, hand painted, limited edition, and there are a total of 24 in different combinations of these gorgeous colors!

Let me know if you would like one shipped out to ya....they are 10.00 ea. plus shipping.

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-11-02T09:36:00.000-04:00

....thought I'd pop in during this busy week and show you a peek of these large 4x8 magnetic boards that I had made for the studio! I will have one, and my photographer will have one in his studio, so that we have an organized grouping of all of the book photos and projects. It will help both aesthetically and organizationally. It is good to be able to visualize things off the computer screen sometimes......:}

All for now.....I have my first big book deadline tomorrow, a three day show this weekend, a speaking engagement on Monday, and another show in the studio next Thursday! I am organized and ready, so no stressing...it is just very busy!!

Have a good one, peeps!

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-11-01T02:00:00.000-04:00

type everything

Introductions

2011-10-31T02:00:00.000-04:00

Meet Lunella.

I have not sent out an upholstery project in a while, but I am getting ready for Open Studios this weekend, so I am pulling out all the stops. I just had to....{was compelled to}...... unearth this tired old gal, and make her spiffy! This chair, in her before state, has collected dust in my studio for a while. I was so uninspired by how awful and ugly she was. Shame on me.....I had so little faith and vision for what she could become....even though deep down I knew it..... I doubted this one.

It is always good to be proven wrong every now and again!

Man, she's a beaut! Crikey!

{Please excuse the lovely cardboard "floor guards"! There is hardly space in the studio for all of the projects I have going on. I am just makin' it work!}

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-10-28T02:00:00.000-04:00

Add caption

all images via www.everimages.ca

I am so excited for my friend Celine from Pure Green! Celine and her crew have taken Pure Green magazine from online to .....PRINT! I know this has been a humongo bonkers undertaking....with countless hours, trials, and a very big leap of faith.

This is the perfect example of climbing out on that limb and grabbing the fruit. I am so proud, and I wanted you all to know. Please check it out if you haven't already....and if you feel so inclined, subscribe!

Hope you all had a decent week, and get to chill out this weekend!

Peace out!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-10-27T02:00:00.000-04:00

Old made new, and brand spankin' new......but all in all....this is goodness times a billion.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-10-26T02:00:00.000-04:00


via pinterest

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-10-25T08:04:00.001-04:00

Are you all seeing what I am seeing? It is everywhere I turn it seems! I love a good geometric pattern, and have been planning a piece for the last couple of months. Also, I love it when fashion design trends and furniture design can mesh a bit......but just like all trends, a little goes a long way! Finding a way to take a small part of a trend, and make it timeless is the trick! I think I definitely have a plan!

Have a great day today!

xo,

Barb

Introductions...of sorts

2011-10-24T02:00:00.000-04:00

Good morning, you crazy peeps! I have to admit that I am still sore from all the walking we did this weekend. Shawew! We went a little nutty trying to hit all of our favorite Atlanta spots in a day and a half.....and I am definitely too old for those kinds of shenanigans!

We started off with the Country Living Fair, and while we waited for the gates to open, we tried to take pictures of ourselves and got to laughing so hard we cried. I forgot that with my fancy schmancy new phone I no longer have to guess what I am getting a photo of....I can just flip the screen around...and whalla! But, it was fun to do it "wrong" for a bit and laugh until we were sweaty and sick to our stomachs. A few of the people around us said they wanted a little bit of whatever we had, because it looked like fun....and I promised them I was running on chai tea alone.

Anyway, in a nutshell, the CLF was set up in a wooded area of Stone Mountain Park in Georgia. It was a gorgeous day to be outside, and a beautiful area. Each vendor had a tent type set up, where they displayed their lovelies

We ran into the Nate Berkus film crew, and the Editor of CL a million times it seemed, as they were filming a segment for the Nate show....it was fun to watch them tape for a bit, and watch their faces as they tried to act really excited about making yet another light fixture out of a chicken feeder! { i jest!}

I enjoyed getting to hear Shawna Robinson from Happy Chair chat about who she is, why she does what she does, and watch a demo of her working on one of her chairs. Shawna is a cutie, full of energy, and I enjoyed her.....period.

The booth that I took the most photos in, was Splurge Design, and happened to be a couple from Asheville, NC. I recognized their work from seeing it at the Screen Door. This team is amazing at display, and I would have to give their booth the award for being the best in show! {all of the light fixtures, letters and numbers in photos above} I loved Rebekah Blocher's ceramic jewelry, for the fantastic color combinations that she used, and the way she had everything displayed in her booth. Then there was the Modern June booth, that had lots of colorful oilcloth material for sale by the yard, more great ceramic jewelry, and some really pretty felt wreaths by Hershey is My Baby.

photo via hershey is my baby

These are the booths that stood out to me personally, out of the many booths that were there.....not to say that the other booths were not beautiful and good, just a different aesthetic than what my eye is normally drawn to. There was definitely a lot of country goodness at the Country Living Fair, {imagine that?!}, but it's all good.

Amy and I had a great time exploring and taking in new things.

{all photos shot with my spiffy new iphone camera!}

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-10-21T02:00:00.000-04:00

I have always been curious to see what the Country Living Fair is all about.....so when my pal Amy called me up and asked me to go.....I wanted to go....but hem hawed because of all the craziness at Knack right now.

Well my pal kept working on me......and then she did the best thing a friend could do, and booked the hotel, bought the tickets, and planned the whole trip. All I had to do was pack my bag, give my half of the mullah, and plan on having a bomb diggity blast!

We leave early tomorrow morning to head to Atlanta......and I have to admit....now that it is here....I am super excited about a girls weekend away, full of new things, and lots of shopping!

Git er done, sister!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-10-20T08:55:00.000-04:00

The cutest egg cups I have ever seen, and if I ate hard boiled eggs....they would have come home with me.

Awesome selection of old cameras.

More piles of gold in the studio. I have a hard time sweeping it up.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-10-19T08:42:00.003-04:00

via faith simplicity, via pinterest

Huge, my friends.

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-10-18T02:00:00.000-04:00


house to home

So simple, so great.

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-10-17T02:00:00.000-04:00

Well my friends, today is going to be a conglomeration of pieces that I worked on last week. It turned into crazy week because my booth got absolutely ransacked, and I had to get it looking spiffy for the big antique show that was in town over the weekend. I say all this to preface my "not so pretty shots" in this post. There are pieces everywhere in the studio, and my normal photo wall is occupied with a large piece of pink goodness right now......so without any more rambling here goes:

This little stool and side table {no before shot} needed some punch..... thus the bright colors and the crazy fun with the gold leaf accents.

....and then there is this sweet little red chest of drawers that my dad brought me back from upstate NY. She was so sad, and her drawers were an absolute mess, but that is what makes all of this so fun. Lots of sanding, adjusting, and waxing later she is a beauty.....and her name is "Rovette".

....and there ya have it!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-10-14T02:00:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite purchases from the artists at Art Bomb

Speaking of "ripe", this is my baby sister...just a few weeks away from delivering another sweet nephew. How beautiful is this?

I have a strange love of blurry photos, and this one is no exception. Four pieces of new work looking like sherbet. Good enough to eat I tell you.

Happy end of the week!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-10-13T02:00:00.000-04:00

I have passed up many a wooden spool in my day, due to the fact that most of them are super beautiful and great ...but just a bit on the plain side for me. Well, all that changed on Monday, when I spotted these at the Screen Door in Asheville, NC. I just had to bring some home to the studio, and I have plans to use them in a photo shoot before selling them. They are totally Knack in every way, with layers of color and goodness all around. Good dealio.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-10-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

found via pinterest- holy cool

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-10-11T02:00:00.000-04:00

Oh... my... dear...goodness, these are fantastic, smashing, and complete perfection.

Naturally shed, and hand painted in the prettiest shades.

Made by Cassandra Smith

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-10-10T02:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! I hope you all had a great weekend, and are fresh and ready for a new week! My husband is actually off work today, so we are headed to Asheville for a play day in the mountains. I am excited about a day away to shop, explore, and eat somewhere new and tasty. I hope to do some furniture buying as well......shhhh don't tell the hubs!

While we are talking about furniture, I finished this little beauty last week. This was my last custom job for a while, and I know I said that before but my client "K" talked to me about this piece way before the cut off deadline, and so I squeezed her in when she was ready.

This piece may look a little familiar to you all since she was created after a serious falling in love with "jewel", and I dare say that you will see the resemblance! {wink!} I personally believe that you can never go wrong with this color, and was happy to create some turquoise goodness again.

jewel

Have a great day today peeps!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-10-07T08:29:00.002-04:00

Happy weekend from my home to yours.....

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-10-06T02:00:00.000-04:00

my little miss sunshine

bangin' new color

smiley face syrup lid

bangles on my arm

gigi's pearls

piles of gold leaf {from a very special piece of furniture}

All of these, are things that I found to be photo worthy goodness.

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-10-05T02:00:00.000-04:00


pinterest

yessiree bob!

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-10-04T08:36:00.000-04:00

I have some fun news today! I have been wanting to come up with a little "thank you" gift to send out with my furniture...because everyone likes a little surprise in the drawer, right? I wanted something that would be both fun and functional....and so I immediately thought of my pal Sara with Girls Can Tell. I have carried Sara's coasters for a while now at Knack, and am such a fan of her work. Sara did not disappoint, and whipped up the cutest design for me that is just happenin' all the way around.....and I am thrilled to now have these pieces of felt goodness to send out with my furniture! Good stuff!

Thank you Sara, for being so fantastic!

xo,

Barb

Introductions

2011-10-03T02:00:00.000-04:00

This piece of handsome came with "tilly", and they are from the same set of goodness. I call this guy "ferguson", and he is just so fantastic in his new graphite skin and black and gold ceramic hardware. I really loved working on this piece and bringing back the swagger that had been hiding for years. What do ya think of him now?...check him out in the etsy shop.

...that's right.

xo,

Barb

Etcetera

2011-09-30T08:23:00.001-04:00

lookbook.nu

It has been a busy week here in my neck of the woods, and I am really looking forward to the weekend! I am also looking forward to the fact that tomorrow it is only supposed to reach 65 degrees! I will be sitting watching my son play soccer with a scarf on, a hot drink, and I may even whip on the tall socks and boots........hah!!

Enjoy this weekend, wherever you are!

xo,

Barb

Found goodness

2011-09-29T02:00:00.000-04:00

Tickity tock....this clock rocks!

xo,

Barb

Quotage

2011-09-28T02:00:00.000-04:00

teal cheesecake

FYI

2011-09-27T02:00:00.000-04:00

I personally believe, that these are a super fun invention in the clock world and wanted to share the love. I typically {no comments from my family!} am the get out of bed when the alarm goes off kind of gal and never hit the snooze..... ever, but think it would be funny to watch others in my household chase their little clock around as it rolls and jumps and gurgles and chirps the whole time. You can even pre record messages on it..say what?!...now that is just some nutty fun right there! I already have some great phrases I would like to leave on the hubs clock! {wink!}

Check out the you tube video, it is really cute...and then head over to Nanda Home to partake in more.

xo,

Barb

Introductions...

2011-09-26T02:00:00.000-04:00

This piece of awesomeness is one that I picked up from an antique dealer friend, and it has a matching short and wide little chest that goes with it, but I'll show you that goodness next week! :)

This piece, after a few days in my presence, became miss "Tilly" and she just screamed green to me. As soon as I mixed the paint and started painting, it just felt so right.....too sweet to be sour....woman of the hour, kinda right! I chose to keep all of the original knobs since they were a nice wooden knob, but decided they needed a little swipe of color love, and painted them a very pale blue.

Love this "Tilly" to pieces, one of my favorite finishes to do. Visit the Etsy shop if you would like to see more of her!

Have an awesome day today!

xo,

Barb

Etcetera....

2011-09-23T02:00:00.000-04:00

I am still reminiscing about my wonderful and amazing trip to New York......it was so good, that it has taken me some time to unpack it all from my little brain. So, bear with me as I continue to revel in the New York goodness.

I want to tell you about the super lovely Samantha Hahn. I had the privilege of meeting Samantha at Holly Becker's book signing party. Samantha is as cute as they come, has the sweetest smile and the humblest spirit about her. While we were all standing there in the Anthropologie store chatting about life, and dreams and books....I was introduced to Samantha's wonderful world of illustration and design......and then she very shyly told me that one of her books was over on the shelf for sale! Say what!? I totally checked it out, and it is so great ....."think, write, create" is a sweet calendar/journal that is beautifully illustrated the whole way through. The very last page states "create every day".......with words like that, you and I will be fast friends forever.

Yes, I bought the book {pictured below}, yes I had Samantha sign it for me, and yes I will be using it on my own book projects that are going down.

Loved meeting so many sweet ones on this latest trip to the city that I love so much.

Have a fantastic weekend!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness...

2011-09-22T02:00:00.003-04:00

One of the shops that I FOUND, and stands out in my mind as a favorite from my latest trip to NY, is Catbird. It is just one of those stores that is small, but packed to the gills with handpicked and perfectly curated goodness in every price range. I came home with this "B" necklace, and have not taken it off yet....well, because it is tied on, and I can't........but I love it so much I like it that way.

....and then some of you probably spotted this garland in my introduction post on Monday, but I could not resist bringing one home with me.....so. stinkin'. great.

....I definitely recommend a visit here when you are in the Brooklyn way.

xo,

Barb

Quotage...

2011-09-21T02:00:00.001-04:00

YEP!

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-09-20T02:00:00.002-04:00

image credit song of style

I run across these ornate frames so very often, and I think this is one of the prettiest projects I have seen using one. Head over to Song Of Style for full directions, and a super fun blog to boot.

Next time, I won't look at these and think "nah....you see those everywhere". Instead I will say " those look good enough to eat, and I'll take all 10 please".

xo,

Barb

Introductions...

2011-09-19T02:00:00.002-04:00

This piece was so hopeless in many people's eyes.....but here at knack we look at pieces like this a little differently! I'm tellin' ya...there is nothing better than taking a piece from here:

all the way to exactly right here:

I love my job.

xo,

Barb

P.S. The etsy shop will be loaded with 5 brand spankin' new pieces {including miss tildy here!} by the end of the day! Get you some!

Etcetera...

2011-09-16T02:00:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for a little bit of this....

weardrobe

and this,

falling stitches

and this,

gallery me

.....and a lot of this,

29 media

thank you very much.

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Barb

Found Goodness

2011-09-15T02:00:00.002-04:00

First of all, let me just say that I really enjoyed perusing all of the fun artists and their goods at Indie Craft Parade this past weekend! So many fantastic goodies to be had, but the one little thing that I walked away with as my treasure was a set of magnets by Jordan Grace. I got a set of four with two handsome bearded men, and two sassy ladies. I just absolutely love them, and think they are the cutest things ever. Get you some!

xo,

Barb

Quotage...

2011-09-14T02:00:00.001-04:00

....can I get an "amen"?

xo,

Barb

FYI

2011-09-13T02:00:00.001-04:00

photo via martha stewart weddings

Love this simple way of using really great color combos on a set of found objects.....in order to create something really fresh and modern. Choosing right color is key my friends.

xo,

Barb

A little peek....

2011-09-12T02:00:00.001-04:00

Last week was a little crazy, getting back in from the NY trip, and settling into routine again! I almost got a piece completely ready for today....but it just did not happen. I should finish it today, and I will put all of the finished shots up later this afternoon or evening.

For now though, here is a peek at the color and design direction. The circles, if they stay, will be in a random pattern but the jury is still out on them. We'll see what my creative juices tell me today as I work on her.

This is why my job is so crazy good. When I am creating for Knack, everything is game, no specifications....all creativity.....it's totally the most freeing part of what I do.

The circles hit me at quitting time on Friday, so I put a few on to ponder what I thought, and who knows what direction I will go today.....but that's just all good.

Wide open baby.

xo,

Barb

Etcetera...

2011-09-09T02:00:00.002-04:00

Remember the other day when I told you I bought a bunch of furniture? Well, towards the end of my buying spree..... I spotted this little lovely sitting in the top of a box, and I said to my buddy " Hey man....I'm totally loving that purse"....and he said "you can have that purse....but if there is any money in it, we are splitting it!"...hah!.....but there was no money, only a grooming set, and a business envelope with a black comb inside it. It even said "black comb" on the outside of the envelope....made me chuckle. Someone believed in being neat and tidy at all times....but I for one am glad, because this velvet beauty is in minty fresh condition. I'm so glad I spotted it, and I'm thankful for good peeps that give me goodies!

Have an awesome weekend!

xo,

Barb

Found goodness....

2011-09-08T02:00:00.001-04:00

I did a little buying yesterday, and purchased large and small furniture pieces....{19 to be exact}, and some styling pieces as well.

One of my favorite finds, besides the fantastic furniture, is this chalk portrait drawing. Check this sister out! I can't tell if she is giving the creepy or sultry stare.....but I totally dig her.

The frame and glass that accompanied this picture were not my favorite, so I took the portrait out of the frame, and just used Japanese tape to attach her to the wall. Man, I just love her.....and now I need to name her.

She is going to show up in some really cool places!

xo,

Barb

light at the end of the tunnel....

2011-09-07T02:00:00.001-04:00

I know you all are tired of my instagram photos!! I promise these are the last......but, I took so many while I was in New York...I just could not stop myself! These particular photos are from Brooklyn, and are some of my favorites. I am a huge believer in Photo journaling....capturing detail and moments that would most of the time be overlooked, but when captured and stored, provide great memories and inspiration.

Do it, and see if it does not change the way you see the world around you.

xo,

Barb

last bits....

2011-09-05T10:08:00.000-04:00

Off Madison Ave.

Babcock Galleries bought some of my giant letters, and I wanted to see them..... but they were closed for the holidays. How about those fantastic numbers though?!!

St Thomas Cathedral

St Thomas

Times Square

A really fun group of students doing an experiment in the city. Trying to prove you can relax anywhere, and leaving the hammocks for others to enjoy!

If you follow me on Facebook you already saw this, but I visited my piece in the Times Square American Eagle. She just keeps on doin' her thang!

...headin' home today....

xo,

Barb

Happenings

2011-09-02T09:14:00.000-04:00

Jon Blair firmly believes that the early bird gets the worm.....he's right. fantastic tennis, and great seats.

wore this hat to keep the sun off my face, and becasue Monfils was playing! hah! He is so much fun to watch.

super fun staircase in SoHo

Street art


Nino's....enough said.

We are having the best time! The weather is perfection, and the city is simply awesome!

I hope you all have a fantastic long weekend! Enjoy!

xo,

Barb