Lulu Max

Making lemonade is not enough!

2012-03-02T00:28:00.000-08:00

This little rhinestone embellished tiny perfume bottle will be coming to Glitterfest! The theme this time around for me is old Hollywood glamour! I have been having so much fun giving new life to rhinestones. I mean serious rhinestones. The more the better this time around. My muses have been Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. I was thinking about what they might be wearing in 2012. Why save rhinestones for that little black dress? I say why save the fun stuff for a special occasion. Everyday needs rhinestones! My goal was to see that each piece has a touch of that old style glamour and a bit of whimzy.

I have needed a bit of a laugh these last few months as there has been one challenge after another. I have tried to keep this blog about inspiration and have been very focused on keeping inspired artistically personally. I have been introspective lately and this has actually helped to put more of my feelings into my art. As I do in my life, when something is serious I try to find a bit of levity in the situation. I have tried to do this in each piece of jewelry this season. Each piece is meant to have that little something to put a smile on your face.

While I might have been quite on the blog front I have been quietly working like crazy. I was forced to take a break this week due to a nasty kidney infection. So as I am resting, ( when I should be frantically getting ready for Glitterfest) I thought I would catch you up. I am choosing to not panic over all the partially finished pieces on my work table. Life always gives us a choice. You can choose to give in to life's challenges or you can power through and find that hint of a silver lining. The old saying goes "when life gives you lemons make lemonade". Not good enough! I choose to make a lemon meringue pie and I know it will be delicious!

I will post a few sneak peeks at the goodies I will be bringing to Glitterfest March 10th. If you have not been to this show it is a must. It is a beautiful mixed media art show filled with amazing and talented artists. I am truly honored to be a part of this event. Glitterfest is March 10th at the Elks Lodge in Santa Ana. Please visit Glitterfest.com for all the details. I hope to see you there!

Tara

Time Flies When Your Having Fun!

2012-01-24T19:38:00.000-08:00

This is the focal of a brass cuff that I made as the class sample for Whimzy. I wanted to incorporate as many techniques as possible into one project. Creating a class project is a challenge because it is not enough to design something pretty. Students want value for the money they spend on a class. So you have to come up with something that is jam packed with skill building and techniques.

This cuff incorporates 3 techniques for adding patina, 2 techniques for distressing brass and other metals and 3 techniques for adding color. That just gets us started. Then we punch holes in metal and set a rivet by hand. And no project would be complete without adding some bling. Their are kits for each student with enough brass pieces to play with to try each technique we explore and a number of color possibilities. The combinations are endless.

We will work with a number of products that are not traditional for jewelry makers. All the more fun I say! I love adding color with alcohol inks that are usually reserved for scrap bookers. You will be pleasantly surprised at all the things you already have in your craft stash that can be used in your jewelry making. For this class you will not need to purchase a thing. I supply all the materials and pieces for the cuff and plenty of extra goodies to make it fun! I hope you can join me at Whimzy April 28th in Tustin. Perhaps a Mothers day gift or just a treat for yourself!

Please visit www.vintagewhimzy.com for all the details!

Now I have to get back to creating my spring line for Glitterfest March 10th! I have been having so much fun hunting for Serendipity Salvage and making jewelry the last couple of months have just flown by.

All the best!
Tara

4 Days Until Glitterfest!!

2011-10-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

The last few days before show are crazy! I have been making my way through my to do list while nursing a cold. I feel like I am moving very slowly while the time is flying by. It is clear some things will not get finished and I hate that.

My display is up in my living room and I am pleased with how it came together. I have a crazy variety of jewelry styles. I am a bit all over the place creatively so there should be something for everyone! I am taking brief break to blog and catch up with my hubby.

The house is a mess and the laundry is piling up but that will all have to wait until after Glitterfest. Tomorrow I will finish a few remaining pieces of jewelry and then begin packing it all up! This is a show I enjoy so much. The artists are amazing and the customers are the best. I am really looking forward to taking a peek arount the room and snatching up a few Christmas gifts to tuck away!

See you this Saturday at the Elks Lodge in Santa Ana!! Stop by my booth and say hello!

Time flies by!

2011-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

I got lost in the creative chaos. It is now just over a week until Glitterfest. I have been busy working on new jewelry pieces and creating a display for the show. The question is now- will I get it all done? The answer is no. Surprised? I am not. As an artist I always have more ideas than time allows. The key is prioritizing. I need to balance my desire to do the projects I am most interested with having a balanced inventory for the upcoming show. I have a running list of things I want to make in my sketch book. Each week I re-evaluate my to do list. Some ideas are discarded, some set aside for later and the rest are prioritized. It only takes a few minutes each week but it saves loads of time as I am not spinning my wheels and wasting time. I am always a little sad when I realize I will not get to a project. But who knows I may revisit the idea at a later time. I look through my sketch book a few times a year both to see where I have been creatively and to see if I see where I might be heading. Patterns do emerge out of the chaos.

So what does a to do list look like the week before a show?

Create levels for my display

rig bowling pins

attach clasps to pendant necklaces

sign pieces

photograph each piece -5 shots each

get a table cover- fabric? tulle??

stamp bags

buy tissue paper

create raffle item.

blog- and social media marketing

preview of merchandise to boutiques that carry Lulu max Jewelry

Solder shadow boxes

finish large bottle for display

something to display earrings

And that is just a partial list. I still have jewelry to finish and jewelry to make. I will not get to all of it but that is ok. I hope I have created something for everyone. I have been very mindful that money is tight for everyone and I have worked very hard to create items for every budget. Art should be affordable! I will post again before the show. Thank you for following along as I prep for Glitterfest. I hope this gives you some idea of what goes into getting ready for a show. The month before a show I work about 100 hours a week. Artists never get paid for their time so I try not to think of it in terms of time spent creating. Creating is what I love to do. Please know that when you buy art directly from an artist you help them to be able to keep creating and you get the most for your money. I encourage everyone to support small businesses and artists this holiday season. I have to committed to buy only products made in America and support small businesses and artists this year. It is a challenge but a fun one. I have discovered several cool shops including an amazing local Ace Hardware. I will use my hour to shop at Glitterfest to do some Christmas shopping!! Ok so I might throw in a goodie or two for me!

One Month Until Glitterfest!!!

2011-09-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

What will I make today??

This weekend we have our last trunk shows before November. Come Monday it is all Gliterfest. I really love getting ready for a show. It is a bit anxiety producing but oh so much fun. Today I spent most of the day assembling necklaces I had designed and set aside. I usually design and plan about 20 pieces at a time. I then bag up all the pieces and parts so they are ready to be assembled. Then I pick a put together day when I am not feeling so creative and I get to work bringing the designs to life.

Sometimes it can be challenging trying to figure out how to rig a project. When I get stuck I set that project aside and move on to another. My sub conscience must keep problem solving for me as I always find the solution when I move on. I am super lucky to have Crystal Basica as my business partner for Serendipity Salvage. She is an amazing artist and jewelry designer (she has been making jewelry 19 years). She is a great resource for rigging ideas and finishing touches. It is great to have someone to bounce ideas off. Another way to do this is by having a craft day with a few friends. Bring out the tough project you are struggling with and get some input from other artists.

I better get back to work!!!

Tara

Bead Shop Hop and the Glitterfest Shuffle!

2011-09-05T22:39:00.000-07:00

This is a big week on the road to Glitterfest. I have at least a dozen projects on my workbench all needing some attention. This is the time in my show prep that I really have to budget my time and keep on schedule so that I have enough inventory. This year I have an added challenge- Serendipity Salvage trunk shows.

Crystal and I are hitting the road with our Serendipity Salvage wares for the Bead Shop Hop. This is a great event here in Southern California. The bead stores have created an event where shoppers are encourages to go hopping from store to store during a week long shopping extravaganza! Each store has raffles, charms, prizes, trunk shows or something special going on. We start the Hop at the San Gabriel Bead Company in Arcadia. ( www.beadcompany.com) We will be there Sep 9 through the 11th. We have special goody bags for our shop hop customers. We are also brings all sorts of new merchandise. We have loads of vintage brass stampings, Pre WWII glass pearls from Japan, game pieces, new brass stampings, rare vintage intaglios, vintage cameos in both resin and glass, brass gears, ephemera and so much more! We have been saving many items from our travels just for this trunk show.

San Gabriel Bead Company is an amazing store. They have everything. Need a special finding? They have it! I just love this store. I have purchased everything from Roman glass beads here that are hundreds of years old to Swarovski crystals. The have the best selection of seed beads I have seen. They always have a great selection of interesting beads for every price range and style. This store is worth a drive if you have not been and the bead shop hop is the perfect time to do it!

For all the details and to find the participating stores near you log on to www.sclbsa.org!

Back to work for me. See you at The Shop Hop!

Too many balls in the air!

2011-08-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

So I seem to have a bunch of balls in the air but I don't really juggle. This feeling can only mean one thing. Glitterfest is coming!!Plus I have trunk shows with Serendipity Salvage and we are doing my fave little flea market at Whimzy in Tustin. We will be at the Jamestown flea market in Tustin and as a bonus all the stores in the area are having sales and customer appreciation deals! I hope I have a moment to sneak away and shop. I have had my eye on a few things at Whimzy and Truly Tattered. Two great little shops right at the flea market.

Crystal and I will be bringing all of our mixed media supplies plus loads of vintage treasures we have been collecting! This flea market is well worth braving the heat for! See you Sunday!! All the details for Whimzy are on the right side of this page!!

Trudging ahead!

2011-08-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

The creation phase of preparing for a show is in full swing now. There are bound to be bumps in the road so how do you handle them? This week I had to head to San Diego to dog sit for my mom. It is impossible to pack up your studio so I chose a few necklaces to work on that required some wire wrapping and cold connections. The components were already prepared and ready to be linked up. Long story short- I forgot some key things. I did not bring a single clasp nor did I bring any silver wire. As much as I hate to leave a necklace partially finished, I laid them out clasp-less on the table. Sometimes you just have to roll with what you have available.

I did not get nearly enough done this week but that is ok. I have prioritized my projects and sketches and made myself a schedule to get it all done. I know life will continue to get in the way but I have a secret. No one knows what I have planned or how many pieces I plan on making. When I set up for Glitterfest only I will know of all the unfinished projects languishing in my studio. So go ahead and think big and plan on doing a load of stuff. Just be alright with not getting it all done. As an artist there are always more ideas than one could ever get done for a single show. Just let it be your little secret!

The Journey to Glitterfest Begins

2011-08-10T22:50:00.000-07:00

Glad you are along for the ride as I gear up for Glitterfest. This story really began the day after my last show in March. Exhausted , I needed a few days to rest before I could even think about what was next. I had my application for the fall Glitterfest but I needed to decide what to create. Jewelry? Yes, but how was I going to grow as an artist? What new techniques could I incorporate? How do I come up with something fresh? Many more questions than answers.

All artist are challenged by those that copy. I really try not to worry about those that imitate. My goal is to constantly push myself and work slightly outside my comfort zone ( more on that later). It is funny to me when I hear jewelry artists complaining about people copying their designs. Much of what we are seeing now like wire wrapping and using found objects is not really new. In the late '70's I bought a necklace at the Sawdust festival made of leather, chain, shells and old bolts. Looking at what artists on Etsy are selling you would think it was made recently. The bottom line- it has all been done before. So worry more about pushing yourself as an artist and less about who else is doing something. There is one very important rule though! ALWAYS give credit to those that came before you and taught you , inspired you or helped you grow as an artist.

I am grateful to many many people for their knowledge and support. Robin Dudley Howes taught me to solder and shared so many tips and techniques. Many have showed me how to wire wrap over the last 30 years. I admit, I was a little slow to catch on to the wire wrapping. Artistic classes not geared for jewelry always stretch me creatively and are just a whole lot of fun. They always add to my skill set. Lisa Loria taught me a lot about composition in her Bling Baby class and reminded me how fun it is to play with power tools. Michael DeMeng reminded me how much I love to paint and sculpt. His class brought back so much that I thought I had forgotten and left in the fine arts department at Campbell University. Ann Besack, my wonderful and crazy advanced sculpture and 3d design teacher encouraged me to trust my own aesthetic. Most recently, Brenda Sue of B'Sue Boutiques has inspired me with her blog, youtube videos and Five and Dime Challenges. You must visit her store and read her blog. She is beyond generous and knowledgeable. I buy a ton of my findings from her and she always has hard to find vintage items. (Bsueboutiques.com) Remember and acknowledge the artists that have helped you.

To reignite my creative fire I headed to Treasures and Junk in Ontario. There is nothing like a good antique store to get me thinking. I have always used found objects in my sculpture and interior design elements. I find that a theme just sort of emerges for me. The theme for my next show is often inspired by a piece of fabric, ephemera, an object or a piece of scrap book paper. Once I have some over arching theme to create a cohesive line I am ready to shop. This time around it is all about the 1940's, the dust bowl, traveling shows and gypsy souls. I have chosen colors, textures, design elements and ephemera. Have I made you curious? Save the date October 15th and come to Glitterfest to see how it all comes together.

As soon as I had the "theme" I made a few pieces and decided the scope of my line for the application to Glitterfest. With that in the mail it was tome to gather the things I needed to bring my vision to life. The above photo is a small pile of collected beads and objects I will be incorporating.

The next couple weeks are often filled with shopping. ( I love that part). I assemble and arrange the bits and pieces in my studio and the ideas start coming. I keep a sketch book handy for design ideas, to do lists, note and lists of supplies needed.

The next step. Planning how I am going to get it all done before Oct 15th. It is good to have a game plan. Tune in next time for the chaos portion of our journey.

Tara

Creative Burst!

2011-08-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

Time to create!

I have been busy gathering goodies for my new line and now it is time to make some new things. I managed to fit in a few quick trips to Boston, Myrtle Beach and North Carolina. I brought back a few goodies to play with. In my bag of tricks I have bottles, leather, persian lamb fur, gears, rhinestones, vintage glitter, brass, chain, prayer cards, tiny light bulbs, ceramic animals, cracker jack prizes from the 1940's, Miriam Haskell pearls, carved ivory flowers, vintage Swarovski crystals, lucite, .999 silver, millinery flowers, lace, ribbon, sari fabric, pine cones, miniatures, baubles, playing cards, brass tags, lockets, charms, ephemera, circuit boards and so many crazy little items I hardly know where to begin.

I made a few new cuff bracelets and today I began soldering a few pendants. I have been sorting and combining and I am ready to fill my days with jewelry making. Save the date October 15th and I will knock your sox off at Glitterfest!

So, this time you can follow my journey here. I will post a few surprises every week and of course some sneak peeks. I will share the truth about what goes into a show and hopefully give you some insight into how I keep the creative juices flowing. Getting ready for a show is a bit of a roller coaster ride so hop on and ride with me!

xoxox,

Tara

The Polka Dot Pixie

2011-07-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

This amazing little mermaid was a gift from the Polka Dot Pixie! Jenny Hernandez is an amazing artist and friend and this siren of the sea is one of her creations. Jenny and I had a quick visit last night before she headed down to Whimzy in old town Tustin to teach a class. She is a paper mache sculptor and painter extraordinaire. If you have not seen her work you must hop on over to her web site at www.thepolkadotpixie.com. She is also an artist at Glitterfest and will be back October 15th for that show at the Elks Lodge in Santa Ana.

Jenny's work is whimsical and charming. I have a favorite Christmas piece and I hate to put it away after the holidays. Her creations put a smile on your face. A great dose of inspiration. Thank you Jenny for my gift- I love her!

Ready set go!

2011-05-23T20:38:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is the first trunk show of the new business! Please join Crystal Basica and I as we launch Serendipity Salvage. We are a vintage mixed media art supply company. Come see all the treasure we have collected June 4th at Garden of Beaden in Upland CA ( 10am until 5pm). Maybe I will bring a sneak peek of what fall holds for Lulu Max!

I enjoyed a few weeks off from the designing and making side of Lulu Max. I have been doing a little restocking and shopping. I enjoy hitting flea markets and garage sales looking for that special something to include in a piece. I also spend some time at a scrap book store looking at paper for inspiration. I might use the images or the colors as a starting point to my designs. I usually have something like a sheet of scrapbook paper that provides an over arching theme to the season I am working on.

While shopping I have been picking up so many cool items I decided to share them with you. My friend, artist and business partner Crystal Basica was in the same boat so we have joined forces and Serendipity Salvage was born. We carry vintage mixed media supplies for your every need. You will find us on Etsy and doing trunk shows. So much fun I can hardly stand it! Please follow our blog to see what new items we have and where we will be. We hunt for the deals and pass them on to you. We love a bargain and hope you will too. Come see us June 4th at Garden of Beaden in Upland for our next trunk show.

A little organization never hurt anyone!

2011-05-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

I spent the better part of the last week organizing my workspace and studio. While sorting and organizing I quickly came to the realization that it was not all going to fit. I also wanted to be able to see many of my supplies like paper, glitter, trim and jewelry supplies. I purchased a section of slat wall and the fixtures. Trays for glue and glitter and paper trays for my paper. Now I can see everything. My sweet husband had to agree to let me expand my space to the other side of a studio wall and into the bedroom. It looks great! I love being able to see it all and find what I am looking for.

The store I purchased the fixtures from has closed and has a ton of really great fixtures left. Send me an e-mail or comment and I will supply the details so you can get your own slat wall or fixture. The total cost of the slat was and all the plexiglass shelves etc was $160. A great investment in organization. Now I am inspired to create. I began laying out items for my fall line today. A few are in the picture- so there is your hint at what is next. Now go get crafty!!

XOXO

Tara

New Class at Garden of Beaden

2011-05-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Join me at the Garden of Beaden in Upland this Saturday, May 7th at 10 am until 2pm. All materials are included to make one floral cuff. Class price $45. We will add patina and color using 5 different techniques. Each student will explore each technique before deciding how to design their cuff. You will also learn the basics of punching holes in metal and riveting. Materials to make additional cuffs will be available for purchase. There are three spots left in the class so call to reserve yours now.

   313 N 2nd Ave # J
   Upland, CA 91786-6076
   (909) 949-7107

You do not need to bring a thing but if you wish, bring your bench block and a small hammer. Everything will be provided for you so come join the fun!

Instant Inspiration Available at Urban Barn!

2011-04-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

Please join Lulu Max and My friend and fellow Gypsy Hoarder, Crystal Basica at Urban Barn April 15 through the 17 for their anniversary flea market. We have a huge assortment of all things vintage for your jewelry and mixed media creations. We will also have our jewelry and art for sale.

We are bringing something for everyone and bargains galore. I know you will find some little trinket to spark your creative soul. The Urban Barn is an amazing vintage lifestyle store located in Escondido at 155 Cress Street. I hope you can join us to help celebrate a year of amazing vintage finds!!

xoxo,

Tara

Glitterfest

2011-03-19T20:39:00.000-07:00

Such an amazing show today! Thank you all for coming out today. I enjoyed meeting so many amazing, art loving people. The room was filled with so many beautiful things. Robin Dudley Howes had a beautiful display filled with such whimsical lovely jewelry and tid bits. I had to bring home a pair of earrings!

The small bottle with the beaded top and the beaded key are my finds from the Magpie! Melanie is a seed beader and mixed media artist extraordinaire. I cannot wait to make a necklace for this very special bottle to go with my new earrings.

Next, I ventured onto the patio where I fell in love with a painting. She will live in my studio. On my way back in I decided I had to have this sweet shadowbox. I will post more about these artists when I can think straight. The show was a blast but I am beat! ore pictures of the show to come. My Mom purchased a necklace from Lisa Loria and a soldered tree from Crystal Basica that are both to die for and I will post pictures of those too. Enjoy your Sunday!

Creative Chaos

2011-03-07T20:15:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming!

Deep in preparation for Moulin Rouge and Glitterfest the house is alive with spring blooms.

I adore the pinks and greens of spring and have been inspired by the spring color pallet.

Color can evoke so many emotions and can give such a pick me up.

So, I am ready to move away from black and cream and step into some color!

What color speaks to you??

Please join me at the Elks Lodge in Santa Ana March 19th for Glitterfest where more than 50 artists will share their mixed media creations. The show is open from 10 am until 4pm.

I promise you will be inspired!

Glitterfest is coming!!

2011-02-25T19:29:00.000-08:00

So I began the process of setting things up today for the two shows I am doing in March. First the amazing Moulin Rouge a weekend adventure in art and shopping put together by the amazing Kim Caldwell. Next is Glitterfest hosted by the sparkly and talented gals from Whimzy in Tustin. The house looks like a bedazzeler exploded in the living room. Every surface is covered in all things jewelry and mixed media art.

I secretly enjoy the chaos. I love having all the rhinestones, beads, found objects and findings out to look at in one place. I like to design when I can see everything I have to find unique ways to pair thing together. I have been working hard all week and I am forcing myself to take the day off tomorrow to play with friends in Orange County. I have no doubt the gang will re-energize me. I am lucky to have such a cool group of amazing women ( and a few significant others) to spend the day with!

Spring preview

2011-02-15T12:02:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick peek at what I have been up to lately. These shots just give you a taste of each piece. I hope to see you all at Moulin Rouge or Glitterfest next month! I have a few new tricks up my sleeve and I cannot wait to share them.

The yard is looking like spring. My apricot and cherry trees are blooming and it has me in full spring mode. I just love that first blush of spring. What inspires you? I hope you will post a comment and share!

Hugs,

Tara

Don't just admire the rose!

2011-01-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

I was running errands today and it took me near one of my favorite stores, Gilding the Lily in Fullerton. This little shop is packed with treasures. I could spend hours in the place! It always seems like I have to hurry and look. Today feeling pressed for time as I shopped I had a realization. I am in charge of my time. I had no appointments, no deadline looming and no where to be. So I took a deep breath and gave myself permission not to hurry. I looked at every shelf, opened every drawer and enjoyed every second I spent in Gilding the Lily.

On the way home I was thinking I need to slow down and experience things more fully. I was thinking about how pretty roses are. The colors and the shapes are so appealing. But is it enough to just look at a roses beauty? I say no! To really appreciate a rose one needs to feel the velvety petals and breath deeply their subtly sweet aromas and perhaps be reminded of their thorns with a little prick! That is experiencing a rose.

So I give myself permission to take a moment once in a while and smell a rose. We all deserve to experience all life has to offer. All the little things we overlook on a daily basis have the potential to bring us great joy if we would just slow down long enough to notice them.

I came home feeling very creative and I had a very productive afternoon. My schedule is a bit crazy as I will be a vendor at both Moulin Rouge and Glitterfest. Did I mention both shows are the same week?? The photo is a simple Valentine's Day necklace I just listed on Etsy. I will post a sneak peek of my new wares for the shows next week.

Enjoy!

Tara

Urban Barn

2010-12-15T22:44:00.000-08:00

Another amazing weekend at Urban Barn in Escondido, California!! Perfect weather for the Christmas tree lighting and parade. The barn was filled with amazing vintage treasures and as always the vendors had there best wares on display! I managed to do a little shopping myself. A sterling silver manicure set for my Mom (shhh it is a surprise) and some lovely salt cellar pin cushions for some of my crafty friends. And of course I found an embellished vintage slip I had to have. My daughter found a vintage sequin dress she had to have for prom!

Included are a few shots of some of the goodies I had with me. The cotton scarves are made up of vintage doilies and are sooo soft and cozy.

Joy Banner Workshop!

2010-12-12T18:19:00.000-08:00

What an amazing Sunday! This morning Andrea Villarreal was our chef and hostess for a workshop taught by Denise Hahn. If you do not know Denise and her amazing art go directly to her blog or website- Inmyblueroom.com. (She always has something amazing on Etsy too!) Andrea prepared a brunch that was to die for. French toast piping hot from the oven, fresh muffins, frittata, chicken salad, fruit and more. We gabbed and ate and then got our craft on!

I know you are wondering where the pictures are about now. Well, somewhere in my messy studio is the cable to import the photos onto my Mac. So I have no pictures to share. I promise to post as soon as possible.

The room was packed with beautiful and talented women each eager to put their spin on a hanging banner proclaiming "art" or "joy". Andrea's home was festive and beautifully decorated and ready for us to work. After two days of selling at Urban Barn I chose to make the "joy" banner to kick off my holiday decorating! I am late this year as I have been in the studio making jewelry and having fun.

It was a great morning filled with art and great women! I so enjoyed meeting everyone and seeing my Glitterfest friend Denise again! So go spend some time enjoying "In My Blue Room".

Happy Holidays!

Tara

Treasure Hunting, Classes and Shows

2010-11-07T19:16:00.001-08:00

My week started with another amazing class with Robin Dudley Howes! This paper shrine was so much fun to create. I learned all about the Sizzix system for die cutting paper. I had to hop on line and order one of the machines and some dies to play with.

We also learned some very basic methods for drawing on metal to emboss an image. Having never really been a scrap-booker or paper crafter, I found this class opening so many doors for creating with paper. Did I mention the dies cut fabric too?

Next it was off to Treasures and Junk in Ontario for a walk through. I always find a trinket or two there. This week I spotted a cool vintage 1963 Vespa scooter. True, it is too large to use as a pendant or a charm but soooooo cool none the less! I always leave Treasures and Junk ready to hit my studio and create.

I spent a few hours cutting things out of paper with my new Sizzix Big Shot die cut machine. Now I have some cool shapes and flourishes to incorporate into some mixed media art I have been working on for Glitterfest Spring. March 19th will be here before you know it- save the date.

Happy Creating! Next week I will give you a peek at some Christmas crafts I am working on for home decor and gifts.

Creative Space

2010-10-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

My journey to revamp my studio continues. I have all of my jewelry bits organized and you can even see my desk top. I am enjoying having everything organized.

I never thought much about having a pretty place to work. I always thought about a functional space- which usually meant the kitchen table! Why shouldn't we have a pretty place to work? We are creative people and we deserve a beautiful place to create. Go ahead and decorate that small workspace, corner, garage or wherever you create. It could be a simple bulletin board filled with scraps of fabric, colors, photographs or anything that pleases you.

I shopped in my own home and pulled the bits and pieces I love for my studio. The painting in the photo was in the powder room. I love it and never saw it in the powder room. Now it brightens my studio. I have a pretty tray on the dresser top with bits and pieces I might design with. The first photo is my personal collection of rhinestone jewelry. Why not have it out where you can see the items? I do not get to wear them very often but I can play with them in my studio!

Go ahead and spice up your workspace. Use the things you already have and love- it's free!

Stay inspired,

Tara

Lulu Max: Inspiration!!

2010-10-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

Lulu Max: Inspiration!!

Inspiration!!

2010-10-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

Such an exciting morning! I was in San Diego and on the way home I stopped at Urban Barn. One of my favorite stores for that whimsical touch for any room or a vintage gotta have it! They have an amazing selection of furniture, garden items (think the most amazing wire plant holders ever), nick nacks, vintage clothing, lighting, hand made jewelry using loads of vintage components. So. . . you can see why I would love the place. All of the jewelry I create has a vintage component or feel so a walk through Urban Barn is pure delight and inspiration. In fact I spotted a few pieces of jewelry designed with components I sold. As they say, great minds think alike.

Above are a few of the treasures I brought home. Check out the one of a kind tiered silver display stand made from vintage silver trays!!! I love it and it has been placed in a spot of honor in my studio. Don't worry she made a few more. There is one with a cherub that is to die for! The trays I purchased will become wall art to replace the picture in the background. I will embelish the trays before I hang them and then I will show you the final look when I finish my studio!

Be inspired and get your creative on!

Creating an inspirational workspace

2010-10-18T00:21:00.000-07:00

The project is under way. My goal is to create a beautiful and inspiring yet functional workspace. I am organizing my little heart out. I have a new monster flat file cabinet with 12 drawers to lay things out inside. So far I just have a huge mess. Next week I will reveal my new art space! Enjoy the before pictures and be glad you don't have to clean up the mess!

Glitterfest and beyond!!!

2010-10-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

After a long break from the blog I am back to document Inspiration!! Leave a comment as I would love to hear what inspires you! I have been on a true journey of inspiration. First stop the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. I spent an entire day looking at costume clothing and jewelry. Above is one of the amazing pieces on display.

Next was Glitterfest. It was a great show put on by the amazing girls at Whimzy in Tustin. It was an honor to be included with the other artists at the show. There were amazing dolls, mosaics, papercrafts, jewelry, purses and too many pretty things to list. I left ready to begin creating for spring. At the show I was also asked to be part of an upcoming show in Long Beach- details to follow. The most exciting moment of the day was a request for a submission to a magazine I adore!!!! The top picture is my table at Glitterfest. Thank you all for stopping buy my table and saying hello. Ivey and I were crazy busy bagging up purchases. Thank you for shopping with Lulu Max!

Tomorrow I will give you a peek at my studio as I take it from disaster to functional and inspiring!

Tara

Lulu Max Art Jewelry

Bling Babies

2010-08-07T23:11:00.000-07:00

Such an amazing class today at Gilding the Lily in Fullerton. Lisa Loria was on hand to teach us how to make one of her Bling Baby jewelry displays using a vintage doll and a birdcage embelished with loads of vintage jewelry (bling)! My girl is dripping with rhinestones. She is such fun. Lisa is am amazing teacher and we had a great time creating! I will post the pictures as soon as I get home.

Groove Session

2010-07-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

A night to remember was had at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano last night. I went to see a great local band Groove Session. They were opening for the band Little Feat. Remember them? Such fun. Groove Session rocked the house. They are a must see. You will have another chance to see the men of Groove Session at Crazy Horse July 24th!

Another happening is the grand opening of Vintage Soul in Claremont. This Saturday, July 3rd the store will have a celebration with raffle prizes, live music and great food. Check out the details on the website for Vintage soul!

Happy Birthday America! Have a wonderful 4th of July.

Tara

2010-06-28T20:08:00.001-07:00

This is a shopping tip passed on by the gals at Gilding The Lilly in Fullerton. Buried in all the stuff in the Warehouse are bound to be some treasures. The owner is really sweet and you might just find that crazy item you have been hunting for lately!

Summer Clearance Sale!

~THE WAREHOUSE ~

651 S. State College Blvd.

(State College exit off the 91 freeway)

Fullerton, CA 92831

College Business Park

(across from Alcoa, between Orangethorpe and Commonwealth)

UNIT 15 ~ (714) 680-3864

BOOKS • POSTCARDS • EPHEMERA • MAGAZINES and

PUBLICATIONS • RECORDS • SHEET MUSIC • MOVIE PHOTOS

and MEMORABILIA • SNAP SHOTS • BUTTONS • TRIMS

MILLINERY FLOWERS • BRIC-A-BRAC • GLASSWARE • GIFTS • SMALLS • VINTAGE JEWELRY • CLOTHING and ACCESSORIES

ANTIQUE TREADLE SEWING MACHINE STAND • IRON

FRAMED ART • SMALL CABINETS and STORAGE

This place is hard to find. It is directly across from the Alcoa Building. The Office has the number 701 on the building so it is a bit confusing. Turn in the parking lot at the "701" building and turn right after the first row of shops. Unit 15 will be around to the left. Below is her cell phone if you need help finding the place. Good treasure hunting.

July is Clearance Month. Shop every Thursday and Friday, and selected Saturdays through the month of July! The warehouse will be closed in August.

Appointments always welcomed...don’t hesitate to call:

(714) 680-3864

2010-06-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is one of my new soldered box pendants. You might recognize some of the goodies inside if you shop at Gilding the Lilly in Fullerton. These little brass stamping pieces are such fun to use as the jumping off point for the design. I added some millinery flowers from the store too. Of course the is some german glass glitter! Gilding the Lilly has inspiration in every nook and cranny. If you need that one odd or end to get your creative juices flowing this store is for you. To see ore of my designs please check out my website at www.lulumax.com. The site will be live with new photos this Friday!!

Back to work for me. I have more vintage odds and ends that need a new life in a piece of art jewelry.

with glitter,
Tara

2010-06-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

2010-06-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

Seashells at Gilding the Lilly

2010-06-12T23:22:00.000-07:00

What a great day spent at my favorite store for vintage tid bits and jewelry! If you have not been to Gilding the Lilly in Fullerton California- Go now. Today I took a class from one of their great instructors on creating art bottles with shells. Working outside on the patio was really a treat. We glued and soldered and created some really amazing bottles in just a few hours. Taking a class is a great way to stay inspired.

I have been really slack about putting up pictures. This is the week of the big reveal! Pictures here and at www.lulumax.vpweb.com this week. Thanks to my wonderful husband and new camera for close up photography I am ready to go. I need a little practice with the new camera to get some good shots. Part of the fun is always having something new to learn.

Have an inspired week.

Tara

2010-05-26T23:02:00.000-07:00

What a great evening spent with fellow beaders! As a wrap up party for the Alice in Wonderland bead challenge, at Garden Of Beaden in Upland, we had a tea party. Our hostess and owner of my favorite bead shop had all sorts of goodies both savory and sweet. Irene you did a great job. There was a room of us gals ( and Ronnie) jam packed with talent. In the next week I will create links to their many blogs. You will be amazed.

I have been working full time in Jewelry for several months now preparing for my debut selling pieces at the Rose Bowl Flea Market in July. I have been so inspired by the artists I have met along the path of my own journey. Rest assured that future posts will feature both art and artists that have inspired me. I really believe that creativity is contagious.

This blog page was inspired by attending Glitterfest last weekend. I came home energized. My husband might call it crazed but I have been on a creative high all week. I felt the need to share my inspiration and journey. So a blog was born. So if you need a dose of inspiration stop by as I will be happy to share mine with you.

Next week I will begin posting pictures of my jewelry and all sorts of things to inspire creativity! Please send me a message if you have a link, blog or website you would like to share and I will add it to Lulu Max.

Tara

2010-05-22T20:36:00.001-07:00

Greetings