New Year

Good morning all,
My computer crashed a couple weeks ago and I've been trying to write my blog from my iPad. The writing part I can handle, it's been uploading the photos that gets me. (There's got to be an app for that!) In the new year I am vowing to make some changes, in both my personal life as well as in my business, so stay tuned and forgive me if there are no images for a time, but I will get it! Happy, happy New Year and go Pack!

Merry Chritmas

Good snowy morning,
With Christmas only two days away, I'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. May we all remember the reason for the season and thank The Lord for all our blessings.

Snowmen

Good morning all,
Thanks to everyone who came to Minion Madness yesterday. We still have some items left, but they have returned to their regular prices.
The snowmen pictured I made a couple weeks ago. Fabric mahce. They are all snow covered now but snow what fun! Happy, happy week to and Go Pack!

Minion Madness

Good morning all,
Today's post is about next Saturdays event. Minion Madness. Kids are going crazy for these guys and we decided to get in on the action. We carry minion hats, matching mittens, mighty (and not so mighty) mates and more! December 14, 2013 from 10-2. As always, fun and refreshments are free!

And the Winner Is...

Good morning all,
Thanks to everyone who participated in the raffles by purchasing tickets and spreading the word. Two names were were drawn yesterday and the winners are, Becky P. (Christmas Carol Ghosts) and Joann H. (Mittens). Congratulations ladies!
Our event for December will be all about minions, so stay tuned! Happy, happy week!

Zipper Trees

Good morning all,
I guess it's not to early to start talking Christmas with Thanksgiving right around the corner. I spent yesterday at the studio creating these zipper trees with a few more ideas up my sleeve! They are available along with mixed green arrangements, ornaments  and an array of items to decorate your home or for gift giving. Stop in Monday through Friday 10-5 or Saturdays 10-2. Happy, happy Thanksgiving and Go Pack!

Thanksgiving Dinner

Good morning all,
Thanksgiving is just 11 short days away! Wether you are a guest or entertaining, these pumpkins are perfect for a hostess gift or an accent on your dinning table. Just a few left, so pick yours up this week at Arnst Zipper Studio, 923 Michigan Avenue and while your there, enter to win one of our raffles and get a jump start on you holiday gift buying by picking up a couple early Christmas presents! Happy, happy week and go Pack!!!

Infinity and Beyond

Good morning all,
I didn't get to participate in the Christmas Carol kick off yesterday, as I spent the day teaching 6-8 grade girls how to craft something useful out of and old garment. Lots of purses and tons of headbands, bracelets and scarves. Fun was had by all!
Now that the weather has turned we need to start hauling out the winter accessories. These no knit infinity scarves are perfect! They are held together by three pieces of leather with colorful snaps. Additional leather pieces can be purchased to change the look. Great Christmas gift idea as well. Only $12 at Arnst Zipper Studio, 923 Michigan Ave. in Sheboygan. Happy, happy week and Go Pack (without Aaron :() !

A Christmas Carol

Good morning all,
The windows are redressed and are looking mighty fine! Maneque is donning all handmade pieces created by our vendors including a Despicable Me Minion hat (matching minion mittens in progress). The second window features our version of a Christmas Carol. They stand approximately 4 1/2-5 feet tall and were made from all rescued materials (except Jacob's chains). These one of a kind ghosts are being raffled with 10% of the proceeds going to children of abuse. Six for five dollars or a buck a piece. Winning ticket will be drawn November 30th. Go Pack Monday night and happy, happy week!

Bow Tie Bag

Good morning all,
As busy as we are, I've still managed to keep my Saturday's for creating, but it is becoming increasingly difficult and the projects are getting smaller. This cute little bow tie bag is one of my latest. It measures 5" x 4" , lined with a zipper closure. It could be made in bigger sizes as well and out of just about any fabric.
The front windows will be changed Friday so stay tuned to see Maneque's fashion statement for fall and of course our version of a Christmas Carol.  You will not want to miss this!!! Happy, happy week and Go Pack!

My Friend Frank

Good morning all,
For those of you who missed my blog last Sunday, we were on our last camping trip with no WiFi. Today's post is about my friend Frank. I've made several table top versions but none this big. Frank is five feet tall and a real monster! He is part of our Halloween window display standing by his new bride Medusa. If you haven't voted on your window, please stop by and do so soon. Votes cost 25 cents each (you can vote more than once!). Contest ends October 31, 2013 with proceeds benefiting the Salvation Army. The November event is all about Christmas with a special Christmas Carol theme. Stay tuned and Go Pack! Happy, happy week!

Despicable Me

Good morning all,
A young mother and friend introduced me to the  Despicable Me frenzy. She crochets hats for kids and is having trouble keeping up with orders and thought it might be something I could carry in the studio. Sure I can make those! Mine are made from fleece and yarn and are available in different styles and sizes and range from $12-$20. Don't forget this Saturday October 12th starts the 2nd annual Halloween window contest betwixt the cobbler shop and zipper studio! Also everything Autumn and Halloween is on sale that day only. Go Pack and happy, happy week!

Rope Rug

Good morning all,
I often see on the world wide web big thick rugs made from Lord knows what. I always wanted to try one and now I have. Did do some investigating and found a site where they sold cotton rope by the foot. Not sure how much I would need, I decided to go the cheap route (or so I thought). Went to my neighborhood hardware store and bought the longest clothes line I could and a roll of jute. 200 feet. Upon my arrival home I got to crocheting. That didn't get me far! I bought another 200 feet and finished the job. $30 dollars into it and several hours later, it is 24" in diameter and about 3/4" thick. I'm certain it will last for generations. I'm not done yet! I've got some heavy jute I'd like to experiment with. Stay tuned for details on our 2nd annual Halloween window contest. Happy, happy week!

Bird Spa

Good morning all,
If you skipped ahead to the photo, you'll see what this post is about. I've been working on this for weeks and it will be available in the studio tomorrow for...not sure yet, I've got to figure that out. I've already got in the works my next zipper project and hope it comes together just as good as the bird spa has. It has not been tested but is constructed and finished with strong glues and epoxy. Stay tuned my feathered friends and happy, happy week! Go Pack!!!

Paper Pumpkin

Good morning all,
I know it's not quite that time yet, but it sure feels like fall! I did drag out my headband and mittens yesterday morning for my walk. It was only 42 degrees! Pictures is a little pumpkin made from a toilet paper core (can't seem to throw those away!). I have a small display at the studio with Halloween and fall decor that will expand October 1st. The event next month will focus on this theme and I'll offer 10 percent off these items.
Thanks to everyone who stopped yesterday for our water color event with Evie Grasse. Beautiful paintings and cards!
Stay tuned! Two really cool ideas in the works that will be revealed in the months to come. Happy, happy week and Go Pack!!!

Before & After

Good morning all,
At the beginning of each month we chance out one of the display windows. Last month was Maneque's window where she dons everything football. The new window features items repurposed. We thought it would be interesting to show how we can transform an old worn out or out of date piece into something new. The two Packer skirts I made last Saturday for the window are gone. I managed to make two more this week and they are sure to go fast. Stop by to check out our window and remember our event Saturday the 14th with Evie Grasse, water color artist. Hope to see you soon, happy, happy week and  Go Pack!

Wedded Bliss

Good morning all,
A few weeks past I had a gal come in the studio with a request to make some pillows for her daughters wedding. She presented three wedding dresses and a prom dress all holding sentiment for the bride to be. She showed me a clipping from a magazine which provided me with the information she wanted on each pillow. I loved the idea and was excited to get at it. The photos are the result and she was very pleased. I know my girls will never where my wedding dress (not that I blame them!) and one day if given the blessing of being mother of the bride, they too will be the recipients of a heartfelt wedding gift given with much thought and love. Happy, happy Labor Day week!

Leftovers are Awesome!

Good morning all,
It was brought to may attention Friday, the day before our family reunion, we'd be having a birthday cake for my 88 year old mother. I naturally wanted to present her with a gift and searched the store for something she might like and remembered how much she is enjoying her bracelets and matching earrings. She has every color under the sun and a sister suggested wood. Great, I've got that! So many leftovers from beads to bindings, I eventually (if I live long enough) will use them all up. Her set turned out so cute (not pictured) I had to go for another. I added the glass leaf (another leftover) and really liked the combination and for only $8 a real steal! Stay tuned and happy, happy week!

Chain Gang

Good morning all,
I was not at the studio yesterday goofing around as usual, but did manage to get a couple bracelets done Friday afternoon. These were inspired by a girl friend and I thought a great way to use up small pieces of chain leftover from other projects. Your comments and input are always welcome. Happy, happy week!

Zipping Around

Good morning all,
I cannot resist trying every idea I have especially when it comes to zippers! Now after completing this plate, I've got yet another (two actually) using old zippers. It measures 10" in diameter and could be used as a centerpiece, serving dish (for dry foods) or art. The picture does not do it justice, it is quite stunning really! It will be on display Monday at the studio, 923 Michigan Ave. Sheboygan.


Just an FYI, I had  gal ask me where I get all the zippers from. I think she thought I bought them, but rest assured, they are all tear outs and cut offs. Nothing new here folks!

Good Gourd!

Good morning all,
I've finally gotten around to making a few more bird houses. I have other gourds still drying in my basement that are a different variety (next year should be fun!) but should be just a beautiful. Often these are called Purple Martin Houses as they are favored by them. The size of the hole and placement of your house will also determine the kind of bird nesting in them. Even if they do not attract birds, I think they look cool hanging in a tree or on a porch or patio. We've got about a dozen varying bird houses in the studio currently, but they won't last long! Stop by to purchase yours and check out the new window display. Happy, happy week!

Badger Pack

Good morning all,
I've been having such fun creating lately, I'm tempted to quit my job and become a full time play girl! Now that training camp has officially started we are all thinking football and with football comes cold weather. I did a beach version of these bags, and thought they would be perfect for taking to the game. It's a pillow, it's a bag, no, it's a blanket!  I discovered I cannot  make and sell any products made with officially licensed fabric, but I can give them away! I can also create them in your school colors or favorite team colors. Details to come, so stay tuned for a chance to win your stadium bag! Happy, happy week!

Back to School

Good morning all,
Each month we change out one of the display windows in the front of the store and yesterday I spent the day making a few items for Maneque our mannequin mascot. Today's image is a pencil skirt (get it!) with a zipper accent that can be worn in the back, on the side or even the front! Be sure to check back in early August for the big reveal! Happy, happy week!

Rewards

Good morning all,
Yesterday was a great success for Uncle Shebs and the studio! Thanks to everyone, it was a busy and fun filled day!
In an effort to show our appreciation for our wonderful and loyal customers, we will be starting a rewards program. For every service rendered, you get a stamp. When your card is full (ten stamps), you'll receive a $5 coupon good for any retail purchase. Details and cards available in the studio at 923 Michigan Ave. We've got more ideas and new products up our sleeve, so be sure to stay tuned! Rewards program begins July 15, 2013.
Happy, happy week!

AZS

Good morning all,
While screwing around with the hypertufas weeks back, I thought it would be cool to make my own letters. Before taking the time to construct the whole alphabet I thought I'd make an AZ and S (acronym for Arnst Zipper Studio). While the A was curing, my sister-in-law and co-worker Kim Kuehl presented me with a framed Z. Now I had two letters made in two different mediums. I needed a third. I went with the first thing that came to mind, fabric. And there you have it, hand made letters at Arnst Zipper Studio!
Don't forget Uncle Shebs, this Saturday the 13th. New designs and a one day only special. 923 Michigan Ave. in Sheboygan from 10-2. Happy, happy week!

Uncle Shebs

Good morning all,
Today's blog is about next weeks event. Uncle Shebs T-shirt Company will in house to reveal two new designs and one new style! I've had the privilege off seeing them and they are great! Their special is buy two and get a "misprint" T-shirt free. They make really fun gifts for out of towners and I for one plan on purchasing several. Join us Saturday July 13, 2013 from 10-2 where the refreshments and fun are always FREE! Happy, happy 4th of July!!!

New Zipper Jewelry

Good morning all,
Next week we'll be putting out some brand new zipper jewelry. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and yes... owl and other animal pins! Be the first to pick up your one of a kind piece or have one custom made just for you. They make great gifts too! Store hours are Monday - Friday 10-5 and Saturdays 10-2. 923 Michigan Ave. in Sheboygan. Happy, happy week!

Bean Bags

Good morning all,
Not your traditional bean bags, but bean bags nonetheless. These adorable purses are made from you guessed it, coffee bean bags! My friend Jeff Zenk from Z-Spot donated them to me many months ago and a colleague reminded me I had them. Good size, inside pocket, zipper closure (of course!) and belt handle. Great for everyday use. Check them out at 923 Michigan Ave. in Sheboygan. Happy, happy week!

Paper Cores

Good morning all,
Thanks to everyone who attended the event yesterday. It was busy and Kim's sales were good. Uncle Sheb is on deck for July 13th.
For years I've been saving and making home products and jewelry from the cores of paper towel, tape, wrapping paper, ribbon and toilet paper. I had seen something like this on the internet a long time ago and thought of it again the other day. Pretty, delicate and reasonably priced! Stay tuned and happy, happy week!

Fancy Flowers

Good morning all,
Next Saturday is our June event with Kim Kuehl and her fancy flowers. She makes paper flowers, button vases and frames as well as an array of dried and live arrangements. Please stop June 8th during regular store hours and take advantage of her 25% off deal. The event is free and so are the refreshments and fun! See you there and happy, happy week!

Hyper What?

Good morning all,
I mention last week about a new project, Hypertufa pots is the name. Not sure what it means, but that's the name! We are still kind of messing around with a recipe. One of the first ones I made I managed to crush it with my bear hands. Keep in mind, I am very strong, but it definitely needed more cement. If you use too much cement they get very heavy. I'm also experimenting with letters and have a few other ideas rolling around upstairs, so be sure to check right here weekly for updates on all the fun and happenings at Arnst Zipper Studio and Greenpurse! Happy Memorial Day and may God Bless all those who gave up their lives for our freedom and all who continue to serve.

Think Outside the Box

Good morning all,
Just in Wednesday gift boxes from Recycled Sentiments. Crafter Kellie O'Neill has saved all the cards she'd been given over the years and decided one day it was time to purge. She hated to just get rid of them, and had the idea to make boxes from them instead. This is a perfect fit for us, and a totally different way to recycle than we've had in the past and they are really, really cute! They would be great for housing many of the small pieces we currently sell. Only $2.85 each. Mary and I are working on something very cool this week so, stay tuned! Hope to see you soon and happy, happy week!

Wrapped Up

Good morning all,
Thank you for making Mary's event a success! Her Chan Luu inspired wrap bracelets were practically sold out. She'll need to spend less time sewing and more time making her beautiful jewelry. Our next event will be all about flowers and Kim will be available to answer questions and take custom orders. Happy Mother's Day to all you mom's and enjoy your Sunday!

Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary

Good morning all,
Saturday May 11, 2013 is the next big event at Arnst. Mary and her Chan Luu style jewelry will be our featured quests. Unlike Chan's, Mary's start and just $18 and are gorgeous. Her special that day only is buy one bracelet and get a pair of earrings for 1/2 price and as always FREE refreshments and fun!!! Make a point to stop by to see these gems for yourself and take advantage of her one day deal. Happy, happy week!

It's Not Exactly Beach Weather

Good morning all,
What a glorious day yesterday and today promises to be warmer. A gal brought in the store a few weeks ago a pillow she got in Japan that when opened up was a small blanket. I thought the ideas was so cool, I had to try one. Not exactly beach weather, but our latest item, (yet to be named) is ideal for taking along to the beach, park, game, etc. or just thrown in the trunk of your car for whatever! I added handles for carrying and used a towel instead of satin. It's large enough to fit a couple beverages, snack, iPad, camera, jacket...you get the picture! I am in the process of making some geared to our Packer and UW Madison fans. Stay tuned and remember our event coming up May 11th. Happy, happy week!

It Will Happen...It Always Has

Good morning all,
I was doing some shopping Friday afternoon looking for an inexpensive towel for a project (that will be next weeks blog) and saw a lady looking at flip flops. All were plain and I've never been much for them, but lots of people are I noticed! I instantly thought of my zipper pins and how cute they would look on the sandals to dress them up a bit. I'd wear these!!!
It sure isn't flip flop weather, but was assured it will happen because it always had before! What Joy! Stay tuned, always more to come. Happy, happy week!

Couldn't Hold a Candle

Good morning all,
I meant to blog last Sunday from the road. Even took a few pictures of the mountains in Utah, but we were so focused on the drive, it slipped my mind! What a ride!

Thanks to all who attended the event yesterday. Not as busy this time, but fun all the same!

The original owner Jacob Arnst at some point made candles and bought wax in bulk, that of which is still in the basement at the store. I've dabbled in candle making in the past and couldn't resist the temptation to try it again. I save all sorts of paper tubes and used many of them to make the candles you see pictured. They are unique, certainly one of a kind and reasonably priced! I had a gentleman comment that the tall one would never burn. I'd like to find out. Stop in and see us soon! Happy, happy week!

Spring Has Sprung and So Have We

Good morning all,
Easter season is in full swing and along with the melting snow and mild temperatures, our minds have been focused lighter clothes and bright colors. New ideas are springing up weekly and we want to share them! Maneque is donning some of our creations and looks ready for the beach. Items include light weight flower pins, painted scarves, earrings and beaded and leather bracelets. I for one and happy to see winter go this year and look forward to working on all your spring and summer repairs. Happy, happy Easter!!!

California is the Place You otta to Be

Good morning all,
One of our most talented and favorite vendors (and my daughter) is moving to California. She may or may not be able to send things to the studio in the future so jump on the opportunity to own an original Holly Wick. The pitcher has since sold but there are a few plates and oil painting still available. Very reasonably priced and one of a kind. Happy Palm Sunday and happy, happy week!

Miss Froggy

Good morning all,
Today's blog is about our Project Parties. Pictured is a frog done by a gal at a party and is one of the activities available. Others include pot painting, cloth roses, wind chimes and washer jewelry. Prices vary but all are guaranteed to be fun with FREE popcorn and Kool-aid™, and everyone gets to take their project home! For more information and to book your party, stop in at 923 Michigan Ave. Sheboygan. Thanks and happy, happy week!

It's Official

Good morning all,
It's dark and rainy this morning because last night we (if you live in the 48 states that do) turned our clocks ahead one hour and it's 35 degrees. Two sure signs spring is near and I for one am ready for it!
Thanks to everyone who attended the event yesterday. It was once again very busy and lots of fun! The next event will be April 13, 2013. Visit www.zipperstudio.net for more information and updates.

It has been voted on and decided. The two newest additions to the Arnst Zipper family are Maneque and her side kick pooch Tootie. Since this photo was taken she has changed her clothes and is currently wearing an Uncle Shebs T-shirt and Greenpurse skirt, with accessories from a number of our other vendors. Tootie is wearing his reflective/illuminator jacket. Stop by to see her in person, she is truly a piece of art! Happy, happy week!

P.S. Anyone know the two states that do not participate in the changing of time?

March Madness

Good morning all,
When you hear the words March Madness you immediately think of basketball. Well we are having our own fun and games in March on the 9th. Lisa Averkamp will be on hand at the store from 10-2 demonstrating her craft. On sale will be Scrabble necklaces at 50% off and Hillbilly Wine Glasses are buy one get the next one half off. She's got something new in store for us as well, so be sure to pop by to meet Lisa, shop and enjoy free refreshments. Hope to see lots of you Saturday and happy, happy week!
http://zipperstudio.net

Belt Buckle Bracelets

Good morning all,
It's amazing the things people give you when they find out what you do! A good customer and friend gave me a belt in which the prong was bent to the point of being useless. He thought I might be able to use it for something. My first instinct was to make a purse and use the belt for the handle. For some reason I woke up the next day thinking it would make a cool bracelet. It did and two days later it was sold! I've got a few more in the store along with some beautiful leather and bead bracelets crafted by our very own Mary Munro. Prices range from $5 to $40. Stay tuned and happy, happy week!

One Hot Mama

Good morning all,
I feel at times like the shoemaker. He and his family have the worst shoes in town. I've been in need of new hot pads for about a year and finally took some time to make myself a pair and a few for the store. They match my quilted kitchen towel and best part, no more burnt fingers! $8 for two and towels are $12. No names yet for our new friends, but we'll know by the end of the month. Happy, happy week!

Welcome Doris?

Good morning all,
We want to welcome our new addition to the Arnst Zipper Studio family. While Holly was busy artifying the mannequin her working name has been Doris. We are holding a naming contest for employees and entries are due Monday the 11th. She has also recently acquired a pooch who needs a name as well. Check in next week for updates or stop by the store. As always, we'll keep you posted!
Thanks to the many customers who attended our Greenpurse event yesterday. Very busy and lots of fun! Lisa Averkamp will be our featured artist in March. So stay tuned, updates to follow. Happy, happy week!

We Love our Dogs

Good morning all,
Anyone who owns a dog knows how much we love our animals. I've been working with a gentleman using his glow in the dark/reflective material to create gear for us and our dogs. Pictured is a dog coat with heart shaped Illuminator™ tape sew to each side. (the underside has elastic for each leg to secure the coat). This alerts cars and other vehicles you are there. We also carry Illuminator collars and leashes serving the same purpose. Stay tuned! I'll have more information and images demonstrating this innovative product in future posts. Happy, happy week!

Dentures or New Zipper

Good morning all,
When this jacket came in I was stunned! I had never seen a zipper with so many missing teeth!! My first suggestion was the dentist down the street, but then settled on a new zipper (which I forgot to take a photo of and is picked up). For $27 her grandson has his favorite sweatshirt back, and for a lot less than a new Abercrombie and Fitch® priced at $90. Have a great Sunday everyone and happy, happy week!

Leather Hoody

Good morning all,
Here is another example of the fun and challenging things we do at the studio! We turned her plain leather jacket into a fur lined leather hoody. Turned out great, we were pleased and she was tickled. Her son no longer borrows her coat!
Working on some Valentine product for the upcoming event February 9th. Most are already available and displayed on our featured table in the store. You'll find scarves, Re-cards™, jewelry, Hershey kiss rose buds and more. See you soon and happy, happy week!

iPad Purse

Good morning all,
I recently bought an iPad with the intension of having all my tasks, notes and lists all in one place instead of post it notes EVERYWHERE, and many emails sent from my home computer to work and vise versa. I'd have to carry the iPad with me to achieve my goal and the Sakk™ I was carrying didn't house the iPad well, so last Saturday I made myself a iPad purse constructed from some leather the sisters left and an old belt. Very sturdy and the oversized flap keeps everything safely inside. It has been working great and I am more organized than ever. Need a custom bag or case? Stop in and see me or call for an appointment. Happy, happy week and nice try Pack!

Dog or Cat

Good morning all,
Thanks to everyone who made it to our first event of the year. It was very successful and we were very busy! Our next event will be February 9, 2013.
Pictured is the dog purse I've been wanting to try for a long time. (It just occurred to me it could also carry a cat) The very bottom has foamcore for stability and the lining is Polar Fleece with 1" foam bottom. Very comfy for your furry friend. Both this purse and the one from my post two weeks ago are gone, so if you see something you like, I would not delay. Way to go Pack and happy, happy week!