Happy Birthday

Good morning all,
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas celebrating with friend and family always remembering the true meaning of the day. Happy Birthday Jesus!

Desk Mate

Good morning all,
I saw something like this on the internet a long time ago and when I started using chalkboard paint I decided to give it a try. I've got all sorts of tubes and cores around from toilet paper tubes to tape cores and upholstery tubes.  I painted a sturdy piece of cardboard with the chalkboard paint and glue it to a carpet sample. I painted the tubes and glued them to the sample. I like it and it will be a good place to store desk top items in my new store. Taking next Sunday off as it is Christmas. Wishing everyone a Blessed holiday!

No Tree

Good morning all,
I decided this year not to put up a Christmas tree. I have to do it by myself now that the kids are grown and for me that takes all the fun out of it. We used to have eggnog, cookies and listen to Christmas, while talking about the origin of each gem placed on the tree. I wasn't thinking it would be an energy saver! Even though we did move to LED lights a few years back, I was surprised at how much energy those little lights take. So here is my challenge, take note of your electric bill in January and make your New Year's resolution to save some energy somewhere this 2012. Happy, happy week!

More Zippers!

Good morning all,
Not only do I have a big bag of broken zippers, I'll soon have a boat load of new ones. I am currently in the process of purchasing Arnst Zipper Repair in Sheboygan. The sisters and I are very excited about the transition and all should be legal by the end of January. Greenpurse will have a spot in the store front and be a great addition to the zipper business. Until that time I'll keep on doing what I do. My last show is next Saturday at Emil Mazy Hall from 10-2. Stop by and say hello! Happy, happy week!

Zip It!

Good morning all,

Last year my son asked if I could replace the zipper in his leather coat, which I did. I began to wonder what happens to all the old zippers? I made a few rings and pins and remembered how people liked them. I stopped in again at Arnst Zipper and the nice sisters gave me a grocery bag full of them. Now I wondered what was going to happen to all these zippers! I started trying a few things and came up with this kind of flower looking piece. I then thought how great it would be as a necklace. The end result is a pin pendant. There is a pin on the back for wearing as a brooch or slide the chain through the pin back to wear as a necklace. You can pin them on your coat, scarf, hat or purse. (I just gave myself another idea!) These will be available on gpurse.com hopefully starting the 1st of December and I'll have a variety at Z-Spot Friday December 2nd. Stay tuned, lots more to come. Happy, happy week!

Resurrection

Good morning all,
Yes I know what time of year it is and no, it is not that resurrection. My mom reminded me of a Santa I made way back in the day out of a used paper bag. I do remember how cute they were so I decided to resurrect them this year. I'll be rolling them out on gpurse.com Monday, in a limited addition capacity. But that will be it folks! I've got a few at Nature's Best in Sheboygan and a few in stock myself so don't delay, order yours today (or tomorrow). GO PACK! Happy, happy week!

Yes Mrs. Wick, thank you Mrs. Wick

Good morning all,
Saturday November 12, 2011 was spent at UW Sheboygan teaching a number of young women the art of sewing and recycling. Each girl was to bring in an article of clothing or some other material that no longer had a purpose. We then refashioned them into purses, bracelets, flowers, pillows and more. Everyone seemed very pleased with their creations and it is a true blessing for me to see the confidence grow in the young women when they see their project coming to fruition. I wish them all well and hope to see many of them back again next year. Happy, happy week!

Chalk it up to Experience

Good morning all,
I recently discovered this stuff called chalkboard paint. What is does is makes a chalkboard like surface on just about anything. I thought I would give it a try and it's really cool! I've tried it on a number of things, wine glasses, vases and frames, but I'm not done yet. They are all part of my Re-Products. The intent is to give them over and over. But I think you'll love them so much you'll want to keep them! They will be a featured item at the three upcoming shows I have scheduled, November 19th at the Kohler High School, December 2nd at Z-Spot and December 10th at Emil Mazy Hall. If you can't make one of these events, there are a few available on gpurse.com and as always you can contact me at green.purse79@yahoo.com for custom orders. Please take a minute to check them out and feel free to  contact me with any questions. Happy, happy week!

As Promised

Good morning and happy all saints day,
It is also November 1st and as promised new product is available on gpurse.com. Make this Christmas one to remember and give your family and friends something they'll not forget all year! More product will be added in the weeks to come, so you'll want to check out gpurse.com often.

Addition and Subtraction

Good morning all,

Today's post is to encourage you to check out gpurse.com. I've added some new product and subtracted some tabs. The idea was to make it easier to navigate. With fewer product lines I can keep it up to date with adding new items and marking/removing sold ones. If any of you manage your websites, you know how time consuming this endeavor is. November 1st I'll have everything up to date on my site  and I can once again concentrate on creating. So check it out now and again starting November 1st. You'll find some great gifts for the coming up holidays and hopefully a little something for yourself. Happy, safe Halloween and happy, happy week!www.gpurse.com

More With Gourds!

Good morning all,
I know it must seem like I have an obsession with my gourds, but the fact of the matter is I was commissioned to make a grape vine wreath so I need the material to do so. When I asked my husband to save the vines he trims again this year he informed me he didn't plan to trim them this year. I needed some vines! Plan B was set in motion. I remembered way back in the day when I cut down a lilac tree, I used the smaller branches to make wreaths. I realized any supple material works, however, vines being so long, they work the best. From one plant I was able to get the 3 foot wreath made and four others about 10-12 inches in diameter. I'm not sure how long exactly it will take for them to dry, but you know you'll hear at least one more post about gourds! Have a happy, happy week!

Gourd Update

Good morning all,
Today's post updates you on gourds. As you may remember I planted in four areas, two of which produced HUGE plants with dozens of flowers. I almost was fearful at the amount of gourds I was to expect, but alas, only two have made it to maturity. Lots of the flowers just fell off and many others produced gourds about the size of an ornament. (Bing, another idea!) Now the choice will be to leave the gourds on the vines over the winter or to bring them in. Perhaps the best route would be to do some each way and see how they fair. Naturally, I'll keep you posted on the progress. Go Pack Go! Happy, happy week!

Carpet Bag

Good morning all,
Remember those old carpet bags? Well, you've not see one like this before! Over the years carpets have changed and the purses should too. A good friend passed on some carpet samples a few months back and here is the bag that resulted from her kind donation. It measures 7" x 6" x 4", is lined with a zipper closure and is as you may have guessed, very sturdy! I've got a few other designs in mind and will blog about those once they come to fruition. Until next Sunday then, happy, happy week!

Another Vine Idea

Good morning all,
I just can't seem to simply throw things away. Not even the spent plants from early summer or the vines my husband trims in fall (that's another post). The wreath pictured are cuttings from a number of plants that had seen better days. I use the same method I always do when preserving plants, 1/3 glycerine and 2/3 water. Put the cut ends in the solution for two or three weeks, remove, dry and create. I prefer the more rustic type foliage as opposed to silk or plastic for just about any application. Another super alternative are the Greenpurse cloth plants and flowers (that will also be another post). Hope you enjoy the day and have a happy, happy week!

It's New!

Good afternoon,
I've just posted the newly updated gpurse.com. I'm sure there will be some tweeks to make but we've made lots of strides. We hope it is easier to navigate and find what you are looking for. We'll be adding more products in the next few weeks, so come back often and take a peak. I'd love to hear your thoughts! Have a great rest of the week.

Made of China

Good morning all,
For todays post I'd like to talk about making a frame from a piece of china. Now this is my kind of project! The only guidelines were to include two photos and newspaper article and to house them using the plate provided. I put down my needle and thread and hauled out the chop saw and hammer. I cut a template for how I wanted the pieces to sit within the matt and figured out the size frame I would need. I constructed the frame and took my hammer to the plate. (China is much stronger than you think!) I arranged and glued the pieces to the frames front. After drying overnight I grouted, dried and grouted again. I cleaned up any unwanted grout and painted the wood white to match. I proceeded to cut and cover the matt then place the photos and article within the openings and secure. I presented it to my client yesterday and she loved it so much it made her cry (she insisted I mention that). I've made an additional two of which only one remains. I like this process and think I'll make a few more. Wishing everyone a happy, happy week!

Herb Drying

Good morning all,
It is certainly the season for harvesting the last from our gardens. We have had some patchy frost in the area but so far Kohler has been spared but it is only a matter of "thyme". Today will be a good day to harvest the remaining herbs from outside and bring them in to dry. I simply cut, tie and hang them anywhere you have an extra nail or hook. They are not only useful, but look cool hanging around. My moss kitchen is still thriving so I'll continue to have fresh herbs as well. Stay tuned! Next week I'll be talking about a china frame and soon an update on gourds. Happy, happy week!

Good morning all,

I may have posted about stewed tomatoes last year at this time, but they are so easy and so good, I had to write about it again. This is my second batch of tomatoes this year and more than likely my last. I'd like to share my technique. I start by preparing a medium onion and green pepper and saute in a little olive oil (they take longer than the tomatoes) Take a large pot and fill it with water about 3/4 full leaving room for tomatoes (about 12 medium). Once the water boils add your tomatoes for 60 seconds then remove. (don't discard the water, let it cool and use it for your plants!) This allows you to peel them easily.  Core, ruff chop and add them to your saute pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender about 10 minutes. If you have lots, I fill zip bags (half full) and lay flat in my freezer. Super delicious in chili, stew or plain with a pat of butter! Happy, happy week!

Harvest

Good morning all,
The last hurrah of summer this weekend. Attended a fun party yesterday of a good friend, today the Sheboygan County Fair and Monday a chance to get in the yard and harvest the last of the plants that survived. Pictured is a wreath I made from last years vinca vines. I cut them and place them in a solution of one part glycerin and two parts water for two or three weeks. The plant does turn brownish in color but the process leaves it supple enough so they don't crumble. I made several flowers from an orange bag I had and added a bow. This year I'm going to try this method with a few other plants as well. Like always, I'll keep you posted. Happy, happy week!

Bereavement

Good morning all,
Last week I was challenged to create several commemorative pieces from a clients mothers wedding dress. (I also created a custom TV cover, but that is another blog) Greta was kind enough to give me free reign and I went to work. These are my favorite tasks as the creative juices really flow. I once again tried to use all the elements from the original gown and veil in each frame. Her idea was to put her wedding photo in the frames for her children until the time came when they got married and would then be replaced with their own. I love it! Enjoy these beautiful days and have a happy, happy week!

Good Gourds Alive!

Good morning all,
Got a late start today, but mass is in and so is grocery shopping. Now the rest of the day will be spent cooking and spending time outside. About mid May my grand daughter and I planted in four areas of our yard, the seeds from the pictured gourd. I dug the hole and she placed three seeds in each. Four months later we have three plants. One is quite small only about 3' x 3'. The other two are very large, one reaching approximately 10'! It is truly amazing how those little seeds can produce such vast plants in such a short amount of time. I should get a good three dozen or so gourds if the flowers are any indication. My plan is to dry, stain and finish them to create bird houses, vases and baskets. I used shoe polish as stain and polycrylic for a finish. Looks like I need to find a better method as the finish is peeling. I think I'll try bees wax. If all turns out well you should see them in spring and as always, your suggestions and thoughts are appreciated and welcome. Enjoy this gorgeous day and happy, happy week!

Follow Up

Good morning all,
Today I'd like to follow up on two previous posts. Consigner beware! I approached a Do It Yourself shop in Green Bay in May and upon their request made a few dozen items for consignment. I signed their contract, they signed mine. I began to suspect something was awry when they weren't answering my emails. Eventually I suppose they had to and let me know all but one of the 21 plants had died. We went back and forth about what to do and another month passed and only one item sold, they desired to end the relationship and in formed me I could retrieve my inventory. I was to let them know what they owed me for the plants and they would have them ready at the end of July. I decided it was fair to use item 8 of their contract - items stolen or damaged would be 30% of the retail price, a whopping $72. They scoffed and several emails later I decided it would be better to let them keep the moss balls and call it a day. They were to return the remaining inventory as promised. I received a box a few days later and upon recycling the shipping materials to my surprise, found an envelope with a check for $72. When I thanked them for taking responsibility for their part and honoring their contract, they made it clear they did not feel culpable, but sent the money under duress. As much as I desired to respond, I felt it best to just leave things as they were. What is the lesson then? Consigner beware! If I hadn't a contract of my own I could not have recouped any loses and I think they may be looking at revamping their agreement as well.

I also blogged about the menopause supplement Amberen. Although I do believe it has helped lessen my symptoms, they have not disappeared. I've got another month or so before stopping for 90 days. If desired, I can begin again then if symptoms return. I'll keep you posted.

Don't forget I'll be at the Farmers and Artisans Market in Elkhart August 20th. Hope to see you there!
Happy, happy week!

Nothing New

Good morning all,
Things are slowing down for me at the farmers market downtown. Not sure if I've saturated that market or not, but am looking forward to the Elkhart Lake market on August 20th. It being an artisan market as well as farmers, I'll be able to bring my other wares.
A good client and friend lost a wire earring purchased at the JMKAC art festival and could not find the vendor to get a replacement. I suggested we make a necklace from it an she liked the idea. She also commented that she thought I could make something like it, I commented that I thought she was right. I have all sorts of wire around so I dug it up and went to work. Here are a few pieces that resulted from my experiment. Lots more to come so stay tuned! Hope to see you at the market on the 20th and wish you a happy, happy week!

Saving the Earth One Plastic Bag at a Time

Good morning all,
Every time I see something I like at a craft fair I say to myself (not to the vendor, I hate that!) "How could I make something similar?" I think about it and think about it and usually come up with my own version. I'm also always trying to come up with new ways to use those pesky plastic bags. Well Watson, I've done it again! Garden Mushrooms. They are colorful and fun and won't break like the ceramic ones I copied from. I'll be at the farmers market six more times this summer or until my products sell out. Mark your calendars for August 20th to visit the Elkhart Lake market. Happy, happy week!

BIG

Good morning all,
I often answer queries for HARO and enjoy sharing my experiences with fellow entrepreneurs. Stephanie Chandler of BusinessInfoGuide.com (BIG) shares my story. I hope you will take a couple minutes to read it and consider submitting your own. Until Sunday then! Happy, happy weekend!

The Pause

Good morning all,
I did not blog last week as I was taking a few day sabbatical. Anyone going through menopause can certainly relate to me. It's been a very long four years and everything natural I've tried to this point has not been effective. Soy, black cohash, vitamin E, bee pollen, aloe vera juice and sage. Perhaps in the beginning they seemed to be helping but ultimately my nasty symptoms returned. Hot flashes, those awful draining hot flashes! Night sweats, sleeping hands, mood swings, hair loss, bloating, weight gain... You get the picture. My husband heard a commercial on the radio for Amberen, a natural menopausal remedy. I needed to try a different plan and honestly was willing to do just about anything. I'm on my 9th day and I do believe they are benefiting. I still have symptoms but they are less severe. (I know what your thinking, it's all in my head! I don't care if it's in my head, toes, or tush at this point, as long as I''m getting relief!) I'll post more results after my 90 day treatment.
Very busy week getting some plants ready for another go at the farmers market and a moss ball making class at the Generations facility in Plymouth on Friday the 22nd. Please contact Jessica Dalske at pacc@plymouthgov.com to sign up. It's only $5 and will be lots of fun for all ages. Happy, happy week!

Nice Piece

Good afternoon,
Just wanted to pass along an article on the Claudia Fox Blog. You just might learn something about me you didn't know before! Enjoy the read. http://claudiafox.com/

Let Freedom Ring

Good morning all,
Now that July is here my commitment to the Farmers Market is over. My Saturdays are free once again. I worked in the morning and then was able to get outside and work in the gardens. I harvested a small amount of spinach and cilantro, rosemary and oregano (you thought I was going to say thyme!) The basil is not looking so good but the nasturtiums are flying! Can't wait to use them in the moss and talk more about their use. I do plan to be at one more market in Sheboygan at the end of July or early August. Most of my plantings should be ready by then.
God Bless America! Happy, happy week!

Afishionado

Good morning all,
I love to give gifts that are home made (big surprise!) and for years my kids got two presents for Christmas, one of which was home made. It isn't much different for their birthdays. My girls are easy and can always use a purse or bag, but my son is a challenge. As you know I've been making Bird Beds™, some of which are made from plastic. I thought maybe he'd like something similar. He's got two very nice fish tanks and is a real aficionado. That's when it hit me. Please welcome Afishionado the fishy bank. He also doubles as a Bird Bed. Hope you all enjoy this glorious Sunday. Happy, happy week!
P.S. These are sure to be very popular (one sold already) but are not yet available on gpurse.com, but contact me and I'll get started on yours asap! green.purse79@yahoo.com

We can do that!

Good morning all,
Happy Father's Day to all you dads! Todays post will hopefully get you to think outside the box. I have a very good client who lets me be really creative. She wanted a new curtain for her front door and I thought it would be fun to do something really different than you normal valance. Because I still have a ton of spinning wool (thank you Kohler High School)I thought I'd try a kind of lace window covering. It certainly did take some time but I was very happy with the result and think she will be too. Your ideas and thoughts are always welcome. Happy, happy week!

Organic Produce

Good morning all,
I was having a discussion with friends the other day about organic foods. It made me realize most people think that because it states being "organic" they feel it is safe to eat. It is when it is handled correctly. Organic means void of drugs, hormones, or synthetic chemicals. It doesn't mean they don't use fertilizers or pesticides, it indicates the use of strictly ones originating from animals or vegetables. The most common is manure. So when you shop at your local farmers market, be sure you wash your hands and produce before consuming them. Happy, happy week!

Inverted Pylon

Good morning all,
Today's post has to be about one of my newest creations. The Moss Balls have been a real hit at the farmers market and I thought it would be good to introduce another shape. After lots of thought of how to accomplish it, I came up with a cone. Not only does it a dimension to a grouping, it allows for a larger plant. These will not be for sale on line so come and see me at the market Wednesdays or Saturdays through June. Happy, happy week!

Ragtime Totes

Good morning all,
Firstly, I'd like to honor every person who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us all free. My prayers are with them and their families this holiday weekend.
Secondly, I'd like to share with you my newest creation. Youngest daughter Hannah Mae starts a new position Tuesday and intends on brown bagging it. She is a graphic designer so the "brown bag" simply will not do. She asked me if I could make her something to carry her lunch. Happy to take the challenge, I modeled the tote after a lunch bag I won at a brat fry and using scrapes of fabric created the Ragtime Tote. I liked it so much I'm putting in my Ragtime line. So stay tuned next week I'll be featuring my apron for the farmers market starting Wednesday June 1, 2011. Happy, happy week!

Moss Balls

Good morning all,
I came across something interesting on the internet the other week and thought I would try it. Not sure what they called them but since they are covered in spanish moss I am calling them moss balls. Small indoor plants are covered in soil, moss and string. I tied fish line through the ball and up the center to hang. I have them in the windows of my studio and I think they look really cool.I used to have curtains there but I think I'll make a few more keep the plants there instead. I'll be selling them at the farmers market in Sheboygan Wednesdays and Saturdays and the DIY Studio and Gifts will have them for sale starting Tuesday May 24, 2011. I'd love to hear your thoughts! Happy, happy week!

Happy May 15th

Good morning all,
Today's post is my May newsletter. Hope you enjoy it and I look forward to your guesses for Trash Trivia. Happy, happy week!

Happy Mom's Day

Good morning,
Happy Mother's Day to all you moms. Being a mother of three and grand mother, I expect to be showered with extravagant gifts today. Anyone who knows me knows that's not true. My favorite gift is love and now that the kids are grown a hug is moving up to the top of my list as they are far and few between. Thanks to everyone who stopped at Z-Spot yesterday. It was a very busy and successful day. I rolled over my competition Vera Bradley creating logs from her magazine and constructing a bird home from them. Stay tuned and have a happy, happy week!

New Homes

Good afternoon,
I must share a preview of one of the many new bird homes that will be for sale at Z-Spot Saturday May 7th. May 8th is Mother's Day ! I thought it was next Sunday! Get your gift today. Shop gpurse.com or email Tina at green.purse79@yahoo.com to purchase your new, but made from used, Bird Home!

For the Birds

Good morning all,

Today's blog is all about the birds. I've created some new and very unique homes for birds. Yes, you are way ahead of me, they are crafted from all sorts rescued materials. Even if the birds don't find them a good home, they add color and style to your yard now before the flowers start blooming and all the year. I'll be featured at Z-spot this Saturday May 7th (happy birthday Denny and Joyce) where you can purchase a home or just sit and have a cup of coffee and see how they come to life. 1024 Indiana Ave. in Sheboygan, from 8:00 to 3:00. Hope to see you there! Happy, happy week!

Time Has Run Out!

Happy Easter to all,
Time's up! Thanks to all who participated in the orchid give away and hope you enjoy your plantless plants. If you'd like to learn a little more about Greenpurse and me please visit www.ShowcasingWomen.com. You'll find lots of interesting women there and an opportunity to be showcased as well. Thank you Suzanne! Have a Blessed Day!

Live from Studio Greenpurse!

Hey all,
I've just completed the launch for our Double Take™ Kitchen Towels. They are now available at gpurse.com for only $12 each! They make great gifts and with Mother's Day here before you know it, you'll be covered. Also check out our new sponsors on our main page! Interested in being a sponsor? All you need to do is send me your logo and link and you will be included. Have a great Monday!

On the Double

Good morning all,
I cook a lot and mostly all in one day. I go through lots of towels because I am doing lots of dishes and constantly washing my hands. I thought if the towel was thicker it would absorb more. (not rocket science!) I decided I'd try a towel made something like a quilt. I've used mine for a while now and love it. I'm finally launching my double sided kitchen towel. They are made from cut offs of all kinds and look great no matter how you hang them! They will be available this week on gpurse.com and come in two sided and filled. Many wonderful colors with abstract patterns. This solves your Mother's Day prezzie problem! Stay tuned and have a happy, happy week!

Earth Day Give Away

Good morning all,
In celebration of Earth Day April 22 I'd like to do another give away. Have you ever tried to grow orchids? I have and they do really well for a while and then the leaves start to fall off and then the flowers. Before I know what is happening, I'm left with a dried up stick. My solution was to make one from fabric. It stays fresh and I don't need to think about watering too much or too little, sun, hot, cold, nothing. It is beautiful all year round! To the first five respondents and orchid will be sent.So please include your mailing address when responding to me. greenpurse79@yahoo.com Shipping charges will be incurred for those winners not in close proximity. Orchids ship on Friday April 22nd, Earth Day (container is not included). Happy, happy week!

Easter Give away

Good morning all,
I love to give. Friends tell me all the time I can't make any money if I keep giving everything away. I have two Easter baskets I'd like to give away this week. They will include a 4" Funny Bunny, Dangling Carrots and home made treats. The first two people to email me will receive them. green.purse79@yahoo.com. If I need to mail them out, shipping charges will be incurred, if you live in the Sheboygan area, I can drop it off or you can pick it up! Happy, happy week!

They've Got Heart

This mornings blog is a shout out to Heart-A-Rama. They have been in the heart business for 40 years! Every year they put on a very entertaining comedy show with the help of my very dear friend Kevin Hansen. This year he's added a website with some fun and valuable information. Check it out the site and the show, you will not be disappointed! Happy, happy week!

Inspiring

Good afternoon all,
I'm becoming a real live blogger! Check this out - Suzanne Duret has me featured on her blog today. Showcasing Women. Hope you enjoy my story. Happy Friday!

Try This!

Good morning,
I recommend you try this at home. I hooked up with Nicole Denton of the plunge project so brides or anyone really, could make their own bouquet, center piece or arrangement. Check it out and don't forget to stop at Emil Mazy Saturday if you are in the area. Until Sunday then!

New Found Friends

Good morning all,
I'm always looking for new ways to get Greenpurse in the publics eye. A Mr. Tom Corson-Knowles posted a query about struggling entrepreneurs and I responded. He was kind enough to share my story on his blog 1000 ways to start a business. Lots of interesting things there. Anothter great site is Showcasing Women by Suzanne Duret. She suggested I send her my story to be showcased and that's exactly what I did. Again, lots of interesting and inspiring articles there. Thanks to both Tom and Suzanne and have a happy, happy week!