: : I D r e a m O f L e t t e r s: :

San Francisco Wedding Map

2011-09-17T08:16:00.001-07:00

Untitled, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

This letterpress map of San Francisco was printed in a lovely, muted yellow, and printed by HelloLucky! to coordinate along with the rest of the wedding suite, a destination wedding invitation design.

One of my favorite maps this year, I love how open the bride was to lots and lots of swirly penmanship.

Calligraphy on the THE NOW stylebook blog

2011-05-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

I had to pop in and share this lovely post from the girls over at THE NOW stylebook blog. They've chosen some lovely calligraphy from myself and some fellow calligraphers, and paired each with a gorgeous wedding gown. Love it!

Traditional Quaker Wedding Certificate

2011-05-03T08:07:00.001-07:00

Quaker Wedding Certificate, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

Here is a Quaker Wedding Certificate that I recently completed for a lovely couple who was married here in New Mexico. The bride and groom loved the russian fairy-tale inspired floral motif's, but of course wanted to inject the colors of the southwest.

There is much more lettering involved in this style of certificate than in my "Wedding Signing Scrolls" because of the written declaration of the couple's intentions.

Pittsburgh Watercolor Wedding Map

2011-03-26T14:48:00.001-07:00

I wanted to pop in really quick and share this wedding map of Pittsburgh, PA, recently completed and about to ship to it's owner.

I love the color combinations we went with here, they feel so light and summery.

Enjoy the weekend!

Map of New Haven, CT

2011-03-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

This watercolored map of New Haven was one that I did a while back, but I wanted to share with you what Katie Phipps did with it. She dressed it all up with a lovely envelope and liner paper to show a prospective client. Love it!

Featured in Martha Spring Wedding Magazine - Houston Map

2011-03-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

This is the second wedding map I designed that was featured in the Martha Stewart Spring Wedding magazine. This map was sent out as a "Save-the-Date", instead of being included in the wedding invitation suite, or used in a gift basket (As was the first "Toronto map".)

The map is of the Houston area, and was printed on Crane's Lettra stock in ecru. The printing is one-color letterpress in muted orange. The lettering style is "Loopy Luxe".

I have more maps to share with you coming up next week… two color letterpress of San Francisco, CA and a two color letterpress AND hand watercolored map of Healdsburg, CA. Stay tuned...

Enjoy your weekend friends!

Good Cheer Deal via "Oh, hello friend"

2011-03-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! Today Danni from popular blog "Oh, hello friend" is offering my stamps for sale. This is a "good cheer" discount offer of limited number, so if you have been interested in purchasing a stamp from my shop, now is a great time.

Item: Custom CALLIGRAPHY rubber stamp with NAME

Retail Price: $30

Good Cheer Price: $20

Item: Custom Wooden Stamp - Name in Illustrated Wreath

Retail Price: $39

Good Cheer Price: $25

Signing Scroll - Pinks, Purples and Deep Blues

2011-03-03T08:27:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sharing a wedding Signing Scroll with you! I haven't been featuring all of these on my blog, (because then the blog would be called, "I dream of Signing Scrolls") but you can see many more on my flickr page here.

I just enjoyed these color combinations SO much. I think they come together to make quite a striking piece.

The design towards the top is inspired by the couples invitation. She thought it would be nice to coordinate the two, and I completely agree. Especially since this design is suited to carry over into modern home decor after the wedding.

The illustrations are fuschia cymbidium orchids with pale greens leaves, and a sweet pink rose with lavender leaves.

The calligraphy is done in a combination of dark navy blue lettering, light lavender and hot pink.

The backing sheet is navy, drawing the eye to the couple's name, and enhancing the weight of the scroll, making it sturdy and thick.

Along the bottom, more pen flourishing is done - just for fun!

By the way, I've been unhappy with my camera lately - even though these pictures were taken in bright lighting outdoors, the "white" doesn't seem right. The paper I use for these scrolls is usually a light, natural white. Not tinged with pink or yellow as these pictures seem to suggest.

For those who may be unfamiliar with signing scrolls, these are designed to take the place of a standard guest book at a wedding, and many times, vows can be incorporated with them, much like a "Quaker Wedding Certificate. I custom create to the specifications of my customers and they can be ordered through my etsy shop.

Featured in Martha Spring Wedding Magazine - Toronto Map

2011-03-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

Hello! As promised, I'm back with more pictures and info about the wedding maps that were featured in the Martha mag.

This map was printed on an extra heavy weight stock - Crane Lettra's "duplex" or "two-ply", 220# paper in pearl white. Although we didn't enhance the edges on these, this paper is PERFECT for a lovely painted edge since the card is so thick.

The illustration was printed in a one-color letterpress, black ink. I love working with colors, but I thought this combination was so crisp and elegant, perfect for the large card - a 7x7 inch square.

Besides the luxurious feel of it's weight, another reason I like the extra thick stock is because it can take the impression of letterpress beautifully on both sides - without dealing with "ghosting". (The impression showing on the reverse side.)

I'll be back with images and information on the second map later this week!

e.Danae in Martha Stewart Spring Wedding Magazine!

2011-02-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

I just picked up the Spring '11 issue of Martha Stewart's wedding magazine, and you should too! ( thought it wasn't going to be out until the 28th, but it was at my local Borders yesterday.) I am so pleased to have my illustrated wedding maps featured in their wonderful"Written by Hand" section.

A table card of mine is featured here as well, the "Table Trois" in casual spencerian... I'll be back to talk about the letterpress maps that were featured later this week, because I do so love talking about calligraphy, letterpress and lovely, luxurious paper!

Lower two maps on right, by e.Danae

Calligraphy Name Stamps

2011-02-25T06:18:00.000-08:00

I have mentioned these lovely address stamps that I have in my etsy shop, but I've also recently added a different kind of stamp; a small "name only" stamp. The size is 1"x 2", and is perfect for personalizing notes, letters, labels and gifting.

Wilmingtons Wedding Blog

2011-02-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

I want to thank Ms. Kim Fisher, event planner and design consultant from Wilmington weddings blog for featuring my work this past week. This brand new wedding blog is going to be a great read for brides seeking inspiration.

We've worked on a few projects together, and this cute little above sign was painted for the wedding of Ty and Cathy, pictured below, but unfortunately the pictures don't show it very clearly. (Promise I didn't paint it after the picture was taken!) But isn't that little aqua bicycle just sweetness itself?

Photgraphed by Anne McGowan

A little about...

"Wilmington Weddings is the ultimate guide to all of the fantastic wedding vendors in the Cape Fear region. We’re focused on showing national trends on a local stage. Eco-friendly, vintage, bridal hair accessories, sophisticated cinematography…if it’s all the rage in the wedding industry we’ll bring it to you AND tell you where you can get it."

On the signing scroll, I watercolor painted an image of the historic "Old Baldy Lighthouse", which now stands as a symbol of Bald Head Island in Cape Fear River, N.C. The lettering style was fun and casual, the aqua tying into other elements of this lovely wedding.

Pretty Placecards

2011-02-22T17:04:00.000-08:00

Awhile back, the Nichols photographed a wedding that was featured on the popular wedding blog, Style me Pretty. I enjoyed working with this lovely bride and wanted to share the calligraphy I did on the escort and table cards.

Etsy finds

2011-02-18T07:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! I haven't showed off my Etsy finds in awhile, so I thought that would be a fun thing to feature today. I am constantly amazed at the talent contained within etsy. I am even trying to convince a few good friends of mine to create etsy shops to share their creativity with the world. If you are a creative person thinking of opening up an etsy shop, don't underestimate yourself, just go ahead with it!

This shop is just spilling over with sweetness and creativity! I've seen a lot of these fabric flowers (and love them all) but of course, I am partial to one with lettering on it.

Quotes and Notes

A little bit about myself: I'm a Canadian - Lived and taught English in Japan for 8 months and loved it there! - Have a 2-year-old darling little monster - Have a wonderful, loving, supportive hubby - Love old craftsman style character homes (happy to be living in one now)

I love the color combinations of this lovely little pottery dish. (Even the aqua background was a striking choice.) It doesn't have to be valentines day to share the love!

Charity Elise Designs

"i am an artist and stay at home mother of two delightful small people. i have a degree in fine arts with a focus in ceramics... i love to carve stamps and make molds from vintage pieces and everyday objects and interject the resulting textures into my work...."

Maybe because I grew up in Oregon... but what's not to love about this print? The shop also has a similar California print.

Amy Ruppel

"I am an artist/illustrator living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Birds, woodland animals and the flora they flaunt in are what I enjoy most."

I really don't need to be reminded... but, love the type and I can envision exactly where I would display this in my dining room. This shop contains SO many wonderful letterpress items .

Roll and Tumble Press

"Charming painter turned letterpress printer + Art school dropout turned tattoo artist bond over a love of music, quirky collections and dusty junk shops. One, big, drafty house, three rescue dogs, and a chance meeting with a true old time printer............Roll & Tumble Press is born."

Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

Pink + Orange

2011-02-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

Do you love bright and bold color combinations?

These two look lively together, don't they? I enjoyed seeing my work in pink and orange for this letterpress save the date map of Atlanta, GA.

Printed by my favorite letterpress printer, jazyrain.

Wanting to explore this color combination, I created a little collage of these color combinations to share with you.... enjoy!

Collage page here

Pool and Gray Letterpress Invite Suite + Save the Date

2011-02-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! I wanted to share an invitation suite and save-the-date that I designed a few months back.

First is the save-the-date, which incorporated a map of the wedding destination in Sun Valley, Idaho. The map is letterpress printed on Crane's pearl white Lettra paper in two colors, dove gray and chartreuse. The text portion of this is lettered in my hand calligraphy, "Loopy Luxe".

The invitation is also letterpress printed on Crane's Pearl White Lettra, but printed in pool blue and dove gray. I love this color combo, don't you? Calligraphy+type invitations are a great way to save on design costs, without sacrificing other elements that you may love, like letterpress!

The monogram, which was provided by the bride, tied the crisp type and casual hand lettering together beautifully.

The RSVP is especially sweet, featuring two illustrations of a lamb and a fish - an element which provided a cohesiveness to the invitation suite and illustrated Save-the-date map.

Letterpress Printing by Jazyrain

Invitation suite designed for the lovely Ms. Melissa, who was such a pleasure to work with.

Best wishes to them both!

Pink Party Calligraphy

2010-11-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

Honestly, yesterday was the most awful day! It's been awhile since a cold actually had me bedridden. In the midst of my misery, I received an email from the lovely Miss Katie Phipps that totally brightened my day! Katie planned an amazingly beautiful surprise birthday party for her friend Kathleen, writer of blog twig & thistle, and here are some gorgeous photos! And oh yeah, what do I have to do with it? I had the pleasure of designing the invitations ;)

Being that this particular shade of pink is one of my all time favorite colors - combine glitter, gold, felt, glassware, gaah! I love every last detail.

(And if this all wasn't good enough, twig&thistle also featured my work today - thanks Kathleen!)

For the full blog post and more pictures, visit twig&thistle.

Lately...

2010-11-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hello! Hope you all have been enjoying the change of season! There has definitely been a chill here in the air the last couple of days...The gorgeous colors that have covered the Aspens will soon be fading, so it's on my agenda to get my camera out before they do. I'll share! Santa Fe's surrounding areas are just too lovely this time of year to keep all to myself.

Here are some recently completed projects...

The bride opted for the full names here.

Cross with surrounding flowers is the focal point and below are a portion of the couple's vows.

This Signing Scroll features a watercolor of "Old Baldy Lighthouse" on Bald Head Island, where the couple wed. I really enjoyed a change from florals.

Isn't this lettering style gorgeous? The lettering is painted with white acrylic and brush on an old board - so charming I almost didn't want to part with it!

Fun and unique table cards for a Halloween-inspired wedding. The scroll that was commissioned for this same wedding is here.

Custom Calligraphy & Watercolored Wedding Map - Australia

2010-09-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

Here is another watercolored wedding map, destination Brisbane, Australia. I illustrated and watercolored the locations "Ella", the bride chose. Some brides like to pack in as much information as will fit into a card, and others, like this, prefer to keep it simple and only add the most necessary information.

With custom wedding maps, everything is flexible - color scheme, size, lettering style, not to mention illustrations. It's always fun to create maps because of this, and to translate what each couple envisions into art.

Wedding Signature Scroll

2010-09-04T13:13:00.001-07:00

Wedding Scroll with additional wording, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

This Signing Scroll is different than most wedding scrolls I make because the customer decided to add much more lettering - I loved the wording she chose to incorporate and the way the calligraphy looks stacked. Although the scroll incorporated a watercolored illustration, the focal point was the calligraphy.

Illustrated Seattle Wedding Map

2010-09-03T09:51:00.001-07:00

Seattle, WA Watercolored Wedding Map, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

I don't ever get tired of these.... wedding maps are still such a unique idea and look even prettier with hand calligraphy and illustration. Here is one of my recent wedding maps of the colorful Northwest. This is a picture of the original 9x12 map, however, printing will allow it to be smaller and even printed on ivory paper for a softer look. I love the bright contrast of watercolor wash with black lettering though!

I've done several maps recently, my next post to come soon will feature a watercolored map of Queensland, AU.

Catching up...

2010-08-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

It's been too long since I've posted last, I know! Thank you so much for stopping by, and for those who wrote to tell me how much they enjoy my blog :)

The summer has been a pretty hectic one around here with a steady workflow and kids to entertain as well! I'll be posting regularly once or twice a week from now on, so please check back often.

Here are some of the projects that have kept me busy lately, more to follow!

Rehearsal dinner invitations

I thought I would mention this calligraphy envelope addressing order I did - the envelopes were a huge 9x12!

This is a huge "envelope" that will be framed as a display in "The Wessler" home.

I must have made 15 signing scrolls just this month - they sure do keep me busy. They are so much fun designing though because they are all so different in coloring and illustrations.

I moved this summer! (Just down the road!) But still, it takes time to set it all up ... whew!

Lovebirds

2010-06-16T11:33:00.001-07:00

Lovebirds Signing Scroll, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

Letterpress Week!

2010-04-25T08:53:00.001-07:00

letterpress week at oh,hello friend!
image by: letteria

A Santa Fe Wedding Invitation Suite

2010-04-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

Here to share pictures of my latest project... A wedding invitation suite, complete with a watercolored map of the wedding location. All of the text was lettered by hand in my "Loopy Luxe" calligraphy script, then scanned for reproduction.

The invitation was letterpress printed on ecru letterpress paper, and to make the package more budget-friendly, the RSVP, Address card and Map were flat printed on the same gorgeous fluffy paper.

The return address and RSVP envelope were stamped with a custom - calligraphy rubber stamp.

This incredible liner paper coordinated so beautifully with the rustic southwestern theme!

To complete the package, the iridescent gold inner envelopes were addressed in red, and the ivory outer envelopes were addressed in gold with matching Loopy Luxe calligraphy. (Pictures to come soon!)

I especially enjoyed creating this for my client because although it was a destination wedding in Santa Fe, NM - I live here! It was wonderful to be able to translate the beauty I see in this place into wedding stationery for this lovely couple.

Into Spring with colorful Sign In Scrolls

2010-03-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this winter has come and gone? There is still snow here in northern New Mexico, but not as much of a chill. Hopefully the spring will inspire some new creativity in me!

Here's sharing some recent signing scrolls... each a pleasure to create!

Using both the grooms last name and bride's maiden name is a sweet idea... after all, us married woman can still be attached to our Daddy's name!

The bird scroll work was an element carried over from the wedding invitation itself. Such fun I had with this. Peony's are of course an ever-loved favorite wedding flower, and I love how they look in pale pink watercolors.

A first in signing scroll commissions - a peacock watercolor! The eggplant calligraphy lettering worked so nicely over the citrus and "peacock" blues, I think! Very fun and colorful. And if you saw my home, you would know that I am not afraid of color. I'm glad Naomi wasn't either!

Angled + Calligraphy

2010-03-04T21:28:00.001-08:00

Angled + Calligraphy, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

Flowing lettering angled across soft white paper... this wedding invitation suite has been one of my favorite creations of the year! The Bahamas map was especially fun since I didn't know as much about the island as I thought after all the research. Ever heard of the "Glass window bridge?" Google it!

To see larger pictures, visit these images on my flickr page. Just click the flickr badge on the left side of this page.

J+L Signing Scroll

2010-02-26T10:09:00.001-08:00

J+L Signing Scroll, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

Colorful and fantastic and screenprinted by Ninainvorm

2010-02-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

Ah! I'm squealing! I love these plates and must have one!! I sort of cheated on finding this etsy seller, she's being featured on etsy right now and I clicked through to see the most delicious and inspiring array of hand screen printed plates, platters and prints. (Plus much, much more.)

"Ninainvorm is all about color, ceramics and creative (re-)design. I work with both vintage and new materials, always looking for the perfect match... Ceramics are my first love, but you'll also find many examples of my love for screen-printing and collage here. Enjoy!"

I really love her exuberant and colorful style! Those birds! Sooo cute.

Spring Weddings and Calligraphy

2010-02-16T09:17:00.001-08:00

M+A Signing Scroll, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

I love these colors! Maybe because I want spring to come so badly, these pastel tones are a delight to work with.

Signing Scrolls take the place of a guest book for weddings and there are so many ways to customize, it can either be fun, or overwhelming. I'm always happy to give my input for color, lettering style and illustration preferences. You can't go wrong though, to request matching certain elements that you are using in your wedding - flowers, invitations, color palette, etc.

Have a happy day, friends!

Calligraphy + Rubber Stamps

2010-02-08T22:10:00.000-08:00

So glad to see you! How has this winter been treating you? It may not feel as winter-ish in your neck of the woods as it does mine. But lately, I feel like I've been caught up into a white winterland of Narnia-before-Aslan. Really. But I've been busy in my cozy little studio and the worst that has happened has been losing power for a few hours.

Happy to announce a new listing in my etsy shop! Lovely rubber address stamps, completely custom designed in my Loopy-Luxe Copperplate calligraphy. Laser-cut red rubber gives such a crisp impression and I just love the old-fashioned feel of a real wooden stamp WITH a handle.

And on to a completely different subject. Have you been over the The Bright Side Project lately? If you like free, gorgeous items, and a new post every day that will put a smile on your face - come check it out! Today, Dingbat Press and yours truly were the featured vendors. Head on over for your chance to win hand-calligraphed and letterpressed business cards.

Traviata Wedding Invitations by e.Danae & Atelier Isabey

2010-01-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Atelier Isabey is a custom stationery design studio based out of New York. Here is a collaboration of my calligraphy and her design work and printing. I love the rich, luxurious feel of antique gold... you certainly can't ever go wrong with pairing this color to your wedding stationery.

And how are you? I hope your New Year is off to a great start, and that every resolution you made will be accomplished!

Free Printable Download via Creature Comforts Blog + Miss B + Me

2009-12-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

The always sweet and talented Miss B has put together yet another gorgeous label, gratis for your printing pleasure! Visit Creature Comforts blog to download. And if you look closely, you'll notice calligraphy by yours truly, in my "Loopy Luxe" lettering style.

Have a lovely Monday!! We're in for several inches of snow here in northern New Mexico. Oh too bad, looks like I may be stuck at home with my chai latte and blogs to catch up on ;)

Lisa Leonard - A chance to win...

2009-12-03T06:18:00.000-08:00

I came across Lisa Leonards lovely hand stamped jewelry via ohhellofriend.... Oh my goodness what gorgeous jewelry!! I am currently wearing a very similar piece that was given to me as a gift, and now I know where to find this loveliness! I love that everything is customizable! These are affordable eneough to make great Christmas gifts, too.

Lisa says, "We create custom hand-stamped jewelry using sterling silver, freshwater pearls and lots of love and care. We want our designs to be very unique."

For a chance to win a $50 gift certificate towards anything in her shop from now until Dec. 7th, Visit lisa leonard and then head over to Ohhellofriend to leave a comment
with your favorite item from the shop. Good luck!

Loopy Luxe Wedding Invitation Design

2009-11-25T14:28:00.000-08:00

I just received these pictures from Kevin of Jazyrain of an invitation suite I designed. The letterpress printing he does is impeccable! This lettering style I created is called "Loopy Luxe".

This lettering is done with a pointed steel nib, dipped in ink and written with push-and-release pressure. Although there are many pointed pen lettering styles, the basics are the pretty much the same. I particularly love this style with it's happy loops and swirls!

Once I've hand written all the lettering, I scan it in high resolution, clean it up digitally, and send on to the printer.

I enjoy commissions, so if you are in need of custom calligraphy, you know who to call!

I give thanks for you...

2009-11-24T11:47:00.001-08:00

Yes, you!, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

If you are at all handy creating tags or cards on your computer, please make my day and use this lovely lettering I made just for you!

Happy Thanksgiving Week!

Made by Girl Wedding Invitation

2009-11-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

I've blogged about Jen's gorgeous LOVE prints before, not imagining that she would be getting married soon, and I'd have the opportunity to create her wedding invitations!

Of course, she has great taste, and knew exactly what she wanted. The invitation and RSVP calligraphy was lettering in black ink and soft white cardstock. I hand painted chartreuse colored flowers on each invitation. (RSVP not pictured.) Head over to Jen's inspiring blog for the post featuring my work and endless daily inspiration.

Thank you Jen!

Laurel Wreath Wedding Invitation Suite

2009-11-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hello! I haven't been around much I know... I wanted to pop in and share pictures of a recent invitation suite design. Emily was such a sweet bride and was a pleasure to work with.

I so love the colors!! Letterpress printed on Crane's ecru lettra by Jazyrain. Do you see the RSVP? This is actually a double sided postcard RSVP. I think it's such a great idea to do a postcard. I'm showing both sides, printed in alternating chocolate brown and green.

The laurel wreath was a custom design I created especially for this invitation suite per Emily's request. I love taking custom illustration orders, and it was a special "treat" because calligraphy with no adornments seems to be all I have been requested to do recently!

Unfortunately not shown, but I just have to mention - in case you are looking for a unique touch on your own mailings - that a variety of vintage stamps for both the RSVP and the outer envelopes were used. The outer envelopes were also hand calligraphed in ivory lettering, matching the same style as the printed invitation suite. This particular envelope gives you the ecru-on-chocolate look, but is from a different set, which was done in my Spencerian lettering style.

Prior to this, I had also designed Emily's Save the date map...

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!!

Porcelain Wall Pillows

2009-09-22T11:02:00.001-07:00

Loving these beautiful "wall pillows" from etsy user, stepanka. Her shop is chalk full of her painted porcelain creations, take a look!

"This porcelain wall pillow is hand built using slabs,
with an original drawing etched into the clay, glazed
in some parts and fired in gas kiln."

I'll have a plate collage, please.

2009-09-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite wall art ideas! I'm collecting plates for mine... takes awhile, you know. The plate collage I'm planning is not any particular color scheme, but it does take time to gather plates that I like. Colors, patterns and sizes have to balance each other out. And I don't want to buy them all. I want some to be gifts from special people in my life. HINT. But seriously, it would have more meaning for some plates to be collectibles, maybe a plate that you ate off of as a child, etc.

I used to think that plates on the wall was a strictly Granny decoration, but this way of hanging in a lovely disorganized fashion is so appealing to the eye. Combining color with placement can make a very interesting, mosaic type of look.

Very cute. Are these on the floor? Anyway, too cute to pass up on this shot, I can't find where I found it though, so I'm sorry to not give credit. I love the square-ish aqua plate and the Russian doll.

I like the "W" plate.. .have my own with a "D". It's from Anthropologie but I think they have sold out.

And some plates I'm considering...

Thomas Paul plates... swoon. Love each and every one. (AND the melamine option has a great price point. )

Anthropologies plates... need I say more....

Who doesn't love cupcake art? Perfect for that splash of pink.

Alrighty then... enough about plates...I won't mention them again until I post the picture of my own plate collage. Pinky promise.

Wedding Signing Page Photo

2009-08-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Newlyweds who recently commissioned this "guest book" signing page for their wedding. Thanks for sending this over, April! It's always so fun to see the actual people I am working for!

I can make a signing page for YOUR wedding too. Visit my etsy shop for all the details :)

Paper Cut Art

2009-08-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

"Nikki McClure of Olympia, Washington is known for her painstakingly intricate and beautiful paper cuts. Armed with an X-acto knife, she cuts out her images from a single sheet of paper and creates a bold language that translates the complex poetry of motherhood, nature, and activism into a simple and endearing picture." - Excerpt from Bio

This is just incredible work and I am so in awe of the time and precision that goes into just one of these gorgeous pieces!

Nikki is a self-taught artist who has been making paper-cuts since 1996.... some of the originals have even been made into notecards, calendars, prints, notepads and more.

Smock rocks.

2009-08-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

I love ALL the gorgeous stationery designs smock offers, but my current favorite offering of theirs is the gorgeous gift wrapping. I'm thinking I will use one of these for the Lovely Package Exchange I'm participating in... hmm what to choose?

What I really, really love about their gift wrap, is that besides being eco-friendly and printed on bamboo paper, it is DOUBLE sided! It's also a nice, thick paper so it doesn't seem cheap and flimsy. I'm not the best at wrapping packages so I need the help where I can get it. Gorgeous pattern distracting from the crooked folds and a durable weight that doesn't tear easily when I get annoyed and yank it.

Indi Fixx recently posted this unique little garland made from smock wrapping papers - too cute! I'm also slightly obsessed with garlands as of late, so as you can imagine this had me all wide-eyed and happy.

Instructions on how to make your own here...

Little pieces of my July

2009-08-04T07:18:00.001-07:00

Little pieces of my July, originally uploaded by Miss Danae.

I thought it would be fun to post little snippets of my last few weeks!

From top left to right:

Wild Sweet Peas and Votive
Calligraphed Love quotes on tags (Closer)
Wedding Guest Signing Page
My Farmers Market Birthday Bouquet
My New Print via Sycamore Street Press
Favorite Pink Essie Nail Polish
Sun Sparkling Through Sprinkler
Letterpress Printed Invitation

Lovely Botanical Images

2009-07-26T13:00:00.001-07:00

Flowers inspire me, they make me happy. Here are some flickr fave's to share with you... hope they make you happy too!

Above 3 +

Pretty Package Exchange...... Oh the fun!!

2009-07-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

If you are anywhere near as enamored with gorgeous papers, ribbons and labels as I am, this package exchange is just the thing to make your day! I just signed up for this on "Oh, hello friend", and you should too!

The lovely package exchange is a swap of lovely things with an emphasis on ... packaging! It is for anyone who appreciates a good package: both receiving and sending them.

Ideas: item ideas you can include in your lovely package: photograph prints, notebooks, pencils, stickers, stationery, pretty packaging supplies, pouches/wallets, eco-goods, stuffies, candles, coasters, pins, jewelry, scarves, bags, soaps, vintage goods, mix tapes. buy from etsy or local!

Dates: Sign ups will remain open until Monday, July 27 so you have a few days left to sign up and tell a friend! Partners will be assigned Tuesday, July 28 and you will have about 2 and a half weeks to send your package! Please plan to have your package sent by August 14.

Head over to the package exchange post on "Oh hello friend" blog for all the details and sign-up form! Have fun!!

Etsy spotlight: Modern Pop Alphabet and Number Prints

2009-07-17T21:24:00.000-07:00

Modern Pop

... featuring fun and gender-nuetral prints for children and adults alike. I don't usually prefer gender-nuetral type art, clothing, etc... but I think Ms. Beshara pulls it off beautifully! Of course, what really steals my heart is a healthy dose of thoughtful typography.

In her own words, "MODERNPOP is a line of modern art prints and paper goods with a pop art twist for children and grownups."

Guest book "Signing Page"

2009-07-17T06:52:00.001-07:00

Here is a recent wedding signing page... my favorite custom made guest book! I haven't been posting ALL of these, because a too much of a good thing can be - well, too much.

I especially like the final result on this one because of the colors the bride chose and the sweet peony. The paper is Canson Mi-Teintes art paper, paint is watercolor, and the calligraphy is done in watercolor mixed with gum arabic and one of my favorite nibs, the Principal EF.

And least I forget to mention... I recently acquired the long-anticipated digital SLR camera I've been coveting! I'll be working on my photography techniques but comparatively speaking, these pictures look so much better than the last "signing page" pictures, don't they?

Have a great day lovely friends!

Thomas Paul Inspiration

2009-07-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with Thomas Paul designs the first time I laid eyes on the gorgeous lovebird rug!

Since then, Anthropologie began offering the similar "Dawn Song" rug in my current fave color, light-aqua-ish-blue.

Since neither of these beauties is on the budget at this time, I opted for a yard of this fabric, found at Calico Corners. This was a super fun, easy and budget-friendly project!! I picked up a cute, but love-needy chair on craigslist, sanded lightly, painted it white, (about 10 coats) and finished of with spray polyurethane. It really is worth it to be patient and wait for the paint to dry in-between coats. I cut the fabric to size and stapled it tightly around the edges.

Voila! My Thomas Paul fix for under $50! Plus with more than half a yard of fabric left over, I can still make a throw pillow, fabric flag garland, dinner napkins, or.....?

Magenta+Navy

2009-07-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

Minna Designs has some of the most lovely wedding invitations I have ever seen! Minna is a sweetheart to work with and incredibly talented.

I love the navy and magenta color scheme she used to design these wedding invitations. I used copperplate calligraphy in magenta to match for the envelope addressing. (Somehow, writing in pink is SO much more enjoyable than black or brown!)

And I just have to mention the colored edges... if you are planning on a thick invitation that can show this off, you should definitely consider this effect!

I heart swirly logos...

2009-07-06T19:56:00.000-07:00

I recently had the pleasure of working with the lovely Anna Lassiter, owner of the Charleston boutique, "Eden Boheme" on logo design. As described, E.B. is "A new ultra fabulous Charleston boutique selling furniture, clothing, and accessories all custom made or hand picked!"

Here is a link to the article on Eden Boheme's blog about the design. Thanks Anna!!

And she's back....

2009-07-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends! Thanks to those of you who took the time to email me and wondered "what happened". I have had a ton going on with an out-of-state move and lots of changes, but we should be back on track now for some regular posts!

Image courtesy of boopsiedaisy's flickr photosteam

Past work...

2009-04-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to post pictures of work I've done - not recently - but within the last 6 years or so...

This is a poem written by my client in a Spencerian lettering style for a baby's nursery. A darling newborn gift I think! The outlining is ink and the color shading is chalk and prismacolor markers.

An acrylic painting of my own dear little sister. A favorite scripture is penned floating in the summer sky.

Bridesmaids gift... name on acrylic painted oval canvas.

Watercolored dove and background with dogwood tree branches. Scripture in Italics.

Watercolored Angel... I call her Celestina.

I love taking commissions like these! Contact me through the little "email me" button at the top/left side of this page.

Sunshine Print

2009-03-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

Had enough of the prints I've been finding? One more??? Please? I love this one....

Slidesideways says:

"Colors are yellow-orange and dark brown
Dimensions: 16” x 20” printed on 100% recycled, 80% post-consumer, 100lb cover with with environmentally friendly, non-toxic water based inks.

Please note that these are hand screen-printed and each print can be slightly different, but know that our quality standards are very high."

MadeByGirl: Love Prints

2009-03-28T09:22:00.001-07:00

I'm on a roll this week with lovely prints, because I'm considering all the new prints out there that I need to re-vamp my own home with. If you are not familiar with the lovely Ms. Ramos's work, I suggest you check out her inspirational blog and sweet designs shop featuring an array of unique and typographically stimulating prints. Here are just a few...

The best part? Really affordable and HAND SILK SCREENED!

Keep Calm Prints

2009-03-27T14:00:00.001-07:00

If I loved this print

I adore this one...

... it works well for me since my husband is a a chef and I love eating his food ;) Find it here

jennysbakeshop

Lovin' Letterpress

2009-03-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

Do I need another reason to talk Letterpress? Nope. I love it is good enough, right? Here are some of my favorite recent finds...

Index cards with fun colorful tab like letterpress initial and complete with gocco printed manila coin envelope! I love the smart idea, too cute! Etsy seller afavorite
5" X 7" one color letterpress print on Lettra paper - this image is titled "Niebieskie Ptaki", or "Blue Birds." Nothing to do with letters but I think the swirls are quite calligraphic! And I love birds. All prints are signed and numbered. Just $10 is a steal. Etsy seller cindytomczykart

Designed by Stephanie Lynne Ford for Sycamore Street Press. Etsy seller

sycamorestreetpress

How sweet! Letterpressed poems by larkpress.

Hand Calligraphy Invitation Addressing...

2009-03-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's what I've been up to this week. I especially love the look of white lettering on dark envelopes. Stunning! Slower addressing because I can't use my light box, but worth the extra .50 per envelope I think!

The navy lettering is my flourished Copperplate, and the white lettering is Spencerian. Which do you like best?

Signing Scrolls - (Like a Guest Book, but Not.)

2009-03-12T21:22:00.000-07:00

I've been busy a variety of different projects lately, but these are so fun to show off because each one is so different than the last... I've posted about these before, (a few times??... and this won't be the last...) so I won't go into my long rant as to why they are better than guests books. I'll just say, these make a fun piece of personalized art for the happy couples' new home :)

I do have to point out, although it's not hard to tell, that my "good" camera is broken and these are sadly taken with my crackberry. (I have a cookie jar for my SLR, and I'm sure all my lovely readers will rejoice when that is funded if they aren't turned off by the awful pictures by then.)

Cute Hand Drawn Map

2009-03-07T07:54:00.000-08:00

Hand drawn and illustrated maps are so fun to create! The bride who commissioned this map of Pittsburgh planned to include printed copies in her wedding invitation suite as a way to show her guests some of the area attractions, and also as a whimsical keepsake of the area. For reproduction purposes, this line drawing would work perfectly for letterpress printing, but washes of watercolor can be added to maps that are being digitally printed.

Fortunately for all us old married couples, you don't have to be planning a wedding to have a map like this made - I plan to make my own for all the areas I've lived in (quite a few!) and hang them as artwork in my home.... highlighting our favorite hang-outs, restaurants, etc.

I've been selfish...

2009-02-20T07:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, I've kept this information all to myself, hoping to win all the prizes.... I should have shared about "The bright Project" sooner.

So back to the F.Y.I., here's the news: My favorite Miss B has gone above and beyond to rally an amazing group of artists to give away (as in FREE) an item per day for 28 days. All you have to do to throw your hat in the ring is:

a. Have a computer (I'm thinking you have one)
b. Have a name.
c. Know how to type.

Miss B in her own words:

"A teaser of good things to come, by no means all the participants of the amazing 'Bright Side Project' where 28 superstar artists and all around rad individuals will be giving away sweetness for 28 days starting today! All this just to make you smile-- because life is beautiful. It's so easy to take for granted all the great things we do have in our lives. Pulse? My aren't we rich!

I won't name them yet, but if you are an adventuress sort you can try to figure out who the above are and maybe you can win something super duper (or not?) but you won't know unless you try...."

Go to the Blah Blah Blagh . (There are still a few days left to win stuff.) Even if you don't win anything, you will most definitely get as addicted to her blog as I am.

Scripted Furniture for home decor

2009-02-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

Just as I was thinking my next post would be about using lettering in your home decor, I swing by apartment therapy (a GREAT, inspiring place to visit often!) and what. do. you. know. They did it for me!

Here is what they say:

"The written word may barely be hanging onto paper during the days when email and texting has all but obliterated handwritten communication, but it's alive and well in today's furnishings. As graphics abound in all forms, we've especially enjoyed seeing this design trend spread around DC..."

Look at this chair.... swoon....

Gorgeous! I might prefer slightly more colorful pillows to offset the muted tones of the upholstery.

Ok, here are a few of my own that I actually worked to come across ;) :

Yummy Monogramed Wedding Favors

2009-02-07T08:03:00.000-08:00

Yum, Yum... so cute you almost wouldn't want to take your teeth to these little beauties.... almost. Another etsy find - and yes, I must be on an etsy kick. I just couldn't resist sharing... :)

Personalized Typography Print

2009-02-02T11:25:00.001-08:00

So by now I'm sure you all have realized that I am hopelessly obsessed with etsy. I love sharing my letter-related finds with you. Check these prints out by Lindsey Stephenson, self-taught artist and illustrator. I love personalized *anything*, and these are not only that, they are also budget-friendly and are designed to fit inside budget-friendly IKEA frames! I can already picture this on my wall....

"The Man in the Arena"

2009-01-29T07:20:00.000-08:00

A really bad picture of a recent work:

The Man in the Arena is the title of a speech given by Teddy Roosevelt at the Sorbonne in Paris, France on April 23, 1910.

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

This was hand lettered in my Flourished Copperplate script in black ink, on one of my favorite papers, the large Strathmore sheets in decorative marble finish, the same used in both of the Amazing Grace jobs.

One of these days soon, my husband promises, I will get a new digital SLR.... believe me, when I do, you will all notice!!

Fab Anthropologie File Folders

2009-01-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

Don't even get me started on Anthropologie -- I could die happy in that store. You NEED to pick up a pack of these gorgeous file folders. I love the 19th century typography and flourishing that inspired this look, but of course the color combinations are just as delicious. The design was commissioned to Galison by Anthropologie - more on the details on Galison's blog.

Pictured above are the coordinating sticky notes.

It's National Handwriting Day!

2009-01-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

Calligraphy Invitation Suite on Crane's Lettra

2009-01-22T21:30:00.000-08:00

Here is my latest wedding invitation... The bride picked my "Helinda Rook" lettering style and the ensemble was letterpress printed in black on Crane's Lettra paper by Jazyrain.

The inner envelope and lining is not shown, but it was a gorgeous, b/w flocked damask print from papermojo.

... but back to the paper.....Crane lettra paper is such an incredible, soft and perfect paper for letterpress printing. It comes with coordinating inner and outer envelopes, and 3 beautiful shades to choose from, white, soft white and ecru.

A little about this paper from the company....

"Lettra is engineered for letterpress. It is 100% cotton, soft and luxurious to the touch, yet strong and stable on press. Lettra's distinct "letterpress finish" is rare and engaging in a machine-made, commercial paper.

Lettra is uncalendered, meaning that it is not smoothed in the calender stacks on the papermaking machine. The cotton fibers are relatively uncompacted, so the sheet feels extra-bulky, even fluffy.

Cotton fibers are naturally long and strong, but also non-rigid. Lettra is made without surface sizing to maximize its suppleness and its receptiveness to a deep impression. It embosses beautifully. It debosses dramatically. It foil stamps crisply."

As always, I have way too much fun designing invitation suites, and I'm getting a little concerned over my obsession with paper... is that normal...? Hmm.

A little Chick

2009-01-08T20:32:00.000-08:00

I had the most fun with this set of illustrations created for Ms. Richter who used the designs below, along with several others I created for her boutique childrens clothing line. It seems very different than much of the wedding art and watercoloring I do, but it really was so fun to get colorful and creative! Being a designer herself, Ms. Richter told me the color schemes she wanted and described her vision of what her Chick should look like, right down to the Jimmy Choo boots!

Paper Wreath

2008-12-16T06:43:00.001-08:00

Another amazing etsy find! I fell in love with this holiday paper wreath the second I saw it. The thing I love best second to letters is paper.... (well- without it, where would letters be? Perhaps still scrawled on the walls of a stone cave...)

Haru’s designs are a celebration of beautiful paper and forgotten books. She likes books that were loved by the previous owner, books that have been in someone’s library for many years, books with personalized bookplates and/or handwritten name and dates. Nature, friendship, memories and positive intentions inspire her designs.

This wreath was created by carefully applying paper from:

gift-wrap
scrapbook paper
vintage sheet music
pages from Wilmot and Batjer's 1950 edition of Food For The Family: third edition
a 1963 McGraw-Hill's Gregg Dictation textbook.

Visit her Etsy shop here.

Weddings, calligraphy, paper and lots of lines, oh my!

2008-12-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

I've been offering these "Signing Pages" in my etsy shop for a few months now, and they are a really big hit! I think it's such a unique way to brush off the tired guest-book tradition, and try something different ;) I'm not knocking guest "books". I had one! And it's a dear treasure. But I haven't seen it in over 5 years and it was dusty then too. I love the fact that you can display this as framed art in your home, and enjoy the autographs of the guests who honored you with their presence at your wedding.

Here are two recent Wedding Guest Signing Pages I completed.

This was done double layered with a dark sky-blue and soft white layer. The Hydrangeas were done using watercolor. The lettering was gouache. The 16x20 size easily fit 125 lines.

The bride I designed these signing pages for described her vision of an antiqued look with very soft colors, and light shades of pinks and blues in the roses and hydrangeas. She preferred the double layered pages for an 11x14 size rather than the larger 16x20. This size is great if you don't have the wall space to frame such a large piece.

I hope you all are having a great holiday season!!! I am busy, busy, but I will come update again soon! xo, Danae

Amazing Grace {round two}

2008-11-21T21:02:00.000-08:00

I made this for my dear mommy after she loved the first one I made. She said, "Make it EXACTLY like the last one." (I think she had an uneasy feeling that I would try to make it "better" and not succeed.)

Not completely exact, but at least it's the same text and same paper... and I think the colors in the filigree are nicer in my latest. I couldn't resist trying some new-to-me lettering I found in the Ames Compendium of Practical and Ornamental Penmanship book for the title. (whew.... breathe.) You can find it at John Neal Books .... I won't give you the exact link because you really must browse around.... there's too much good stuff to miss!!

Calligraphy and letterpress

2008-11-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

There is just something about those two - the precise, deep impression of the printing press paired with fresh ink from a steel tipped nib. A marriage of perfect harmony. Each of these invitations were hand written. There were only about 20 of them, so if you are considering a small get-together and have the option in your budget to have this done, it makes for an ever- so unique presentation. My customer, Jessica, specifically requested for the lettering to appear slightly irregular - the bold, not bold, large, small and huge swirly capitals are not accidental :) ... Not something my "precise-minded hand" was used to, but I'm very pleased with the end result.

Guest Seating Chart

2008-10-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

I just finished this seating chart for an upcoming wedding.... I loved Jill's ideas on design and had a lot of fun with the precious cherubs and colorful roses.

Seating charts serve the same purpose as escort cards do in a wedding reception. It seems to me that some brides just don't know this option is out there - so if you like this idea, spread the word! It's such an excellent way to tie in your monogram, wedding colors and illustrations. If you are having hand-calligraphy used on other items such as envelope or place card addressing, it looks lovely for the colors and lettering styles to all coordinate together.

Most of these seating charts are quite large and should be framed, matted, then set on an easle at the entrance. After the wedding, they can be used as decorative display in your home!

Isn't this frame just gorgeous??? This is the one Jill chose to frame it in... I can't wait to get pictures!

The Ritzy Bee blog...

2008-10-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to have been featured on the phenomenal wedding blog, "Ritzy Bee" this week, where you find "Little details that make events, wedding, and life so charming and fun." If you haven't already come across this blog, and you are planning a wedding, definitely stop by for creative inspiration. I just love weddings and wedding-related decor and paper goods so I stop by all the time although my own wedding has long come and gone :) I think some of the best design these days goes into wedding stationery, don't you? ALSO, on Friday of last week, Miss B's lovely card making skills were offered as a free download, and also feature calligraphy by yours truly. Here's a little peek, but make sure you go to Ritzy Bee's posting of the free download to get your hi-res pdf.

Wedding Guest Sign-in Scroll

2008-09-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Sign-in Scrolls are a great alternative to the traditional wedding guest book which will be stored away after the wedding, never to be seen again. You have the option to frame and display in your home, as well as completely customizing with your color scheme, illustration preferences, lettering styles, size and paper type. (Not to make the choices too overwhelming, I'm always happy to take artistic freedom where I'm able to!)

This particular sign in sheet is double layered - A deep chocolate paper as the base - a thick cardstock feel to it. The ivory sheet is illustrated with watercolored cymbidium orchids in pale greens, and lettered in flourished Copperplate. This size, 16x20 easily fits up to 125 lines.

(Click the "Write Me" button in the upper left to receive a quote on a customized Sign-in Scroll.)

The Stolen Child - William Butler Yeats

2008-09-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

WHERE dips the rocky highland
Of Sleuth Wood in the lake,
There lies a leafy island
Where flapping herons wake
The drowsy water rats;
There we've hid our faery vats,
Full of berrys
And of reddest stolen cherries.
Come away, O human child!
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world's more full of weeping than you can understand.

Where the wave of moonlight glosses
The dim gray sands with light,
Far off by furthest Rosses
We foot it all the night,
Weaving olden dances
Mingling hands and mingling glances
Till the moon has taken flight;
To and fro we leap
And chase the frothy bubbles,
While the world is full of troubles
And anxious in its sleep.
Come away, O human child!
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world's more full of weeping than you can understand.

Where the wandering water gushes
From the hills above Glen-Car,
In pools among the rushes
That scare could bathe a star,
We seek for slumbering trout
And whispering in their ears
Give them unquiet dreams;
Leaning softly out
From ferns that drop their tears
Over the young streams.
Come away, O human child!
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world's more full of weeping than you can understand.

Away with us he's going,
The solemn-eyed:
He'll hear no more the lowing
Of the calves on the warm hillside
Or the kettle on the hob
Sing peace into his breast,
Or see the brown mice bob
Round and round the oatmeal chest.
For he comes, the human child,
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world's more full of weeping than he can understand.

Written in hand lettered Copperplate calligraphy using "McCaffery's penman's ink" in black. The edges were hand stained with dark green chalk, the paper is Strathmore.

My little bit of Flair

2008-09-11T05:45:00.000-07:00

Did anyone notice my lovely little "Write Me" button? Of course you did. It's too cute! Miss B of the fabulous Blah, Blah, Blahg posted a few beautiful buttons for lucky readers to download and share.

Go here for the download.

Add this blog to your daily reads - there is always something useful or hilarious from Miss B to make your day brighter.

Portrait Art by Jerome

2008-09-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

Today I'm featuring the work of my favorite portrait artist, Jerome Parker. His talent is truly nothing short of amazing and within just the past few years, has captured the attention of many art galleries, taken first at a number of showings and has been chosen as one of 15 finalist for Artists magazines annual juried contest, being featured in their December issue.

For many years, he put his talent with the brush and oil on the back burner while focusing on raising a family and his "day" job. I am so glad he is painting now! Not leisurely either... he turns out dozens per year with a skill and accuracy in portraiture that is breathtaking. See for yourself... the below pictures are a work in progress.

I love the expression on her face... it's as if she is waiting for you to speak to her, yet she knows what you will say when you do. The gentle breeze brushing her hair, the calm surreal feeling of her environment. Beautiful.

The following are several of my favorites from his recent work.

"La Canción " is 30x40" oil on canvas.

Third Place "Oils" LVAA Spring Arts Show, April 2008

Patriot 18x24" Oil on MDF panel (wood) June 2008. Self Portrait.

Be sure to check out his site for yourself, there are dozens of beautiful painting to go ga-ga over. (I believe he takes commissions occasionally as well!)

"Elena" 11x14" Charcoal on Strathmore

P.S. Ok, I almost wasn't going to say this because you might say I'm biased.. but....he is my UNCLE!! I'm too proud of the fact to hold it in - and if you look at his paintings, it doesn't take a genius to see that I just have a good eye for talent ;)

Calligraphy Signs

2008-09-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

These fun little signs were made for the lovely letterpress studio, Lark Press. The lettering was written with these perfect-for-signs brush tipped markers:

(No close-up of the "sepia" color to be found anywhere on the net- I searched, uh, endlessly...)

The orange "swirly's", (a calligraphic term you may or may not be familiar with) were drawn with the prismacolor markers:

I love these markers. 2 colors were used for the signs. They blend beautifully!

"Create four line widths from one double-ended marker.
One end has an extra broad nib that lays down color fast with paintbrush-like strokes,
and the other end has a fine nib for sketching, detail work, or cleanup."

Delicate hand-stamped pottery

2008-09-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

I came across another wonderful etsy site today and had to share. Caroline Vasquez, the creator of "Palomas Nest" says about her work:

"Each piece is designed and hand-crafted in my home studio in Austin, Texas, by me, with care, pride, and passion. I use only all natural materials including fine clays, wood, paper, and cloth.

My inspiration lies in the purity of the materials that I use, and the idea that something so simple can be so bold.
By adding text, I give written ideas, feelings, and daydreams a place to rest.

All of my ceramic items are crafted from either white earthenware clay or porcelain clay. Custom orders are always welcome. I hope you enjoy my designs as much as I enjoy creating them."

I love the way she incorporates text into the pottery! Truly unique and beautiful. Pictured here are some of my favorites of her creations, but you can check out her etsy shop for yourself here.

Escort Cards and Seating Chart

2008-08-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

I received pictures of an escort card order I completely recently for an etsy customer. (I feel the need to point out that I worked with an actual GROOM this time - which I think is great!) I've only worked with a handful of grooms, EVER.

The lettering style was "Penman" a loopy Copperplate with deeply shaded capitals and almost monoline minuscules. I custom mixed a dark plum color to coordinate with the wedding colors, and added a simple gold flower swirl to add depth.

These escort cards had the table no. written inside of the fold, but it is also standard to write the table number below each name. As an alternative to indicate seating arrangements, you can use a seating chart like this one I created for a "Autumn themed" wedding.

Close up of upper right corner:

Digital Fun

2008-08-20T10:57:00.001-07:00

I used to like this picture just the way it was. Sure, I already had way too much lipstick on, and it's a little painful to see myself making it even darker, but hey, I was nervous, and dark liner was in style in '99.

But to the point.... I love enhancing and modifying photos with my digital software. I thought it would be fun to show a couple of different ways to edit this photo for some effects.

Much more interesting this way, I think. First, everything was converted to b/w. I masked out my reflection, then blurred the rest of the picture. Final touches were to take the paint brush tool and loosely outline the photo for a dreamy, old-photo effect.

This was similar to the prior photo in that my reflection was masked out, but instead of turning the entire photo b/w, I only converted the inverse selection. Obviously. I also did the blur effect on the background... in general, a great way to get rid of undesirable background images, or to at least discourage the eye from looking at them... in this case the yucky wallpaper! I then added a soft black border. Kinda gives it an old film look... yes?

And lastly, my favorite! I brightened the picture, turned to sepia, opacity changed to about 50%. I then added a rectangle under the photo with a "grid" pattern and turned that yellow for the ivory color to come through. The flowers were pen/ink sketches which were scanned in and imported.

This is just for fun, now back to work....

Wedding Place Cards

2008-08-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

I recently addressed place cards for this elegant New York wedding. The lovely bride, Michelle, was not only a pleasure to work with, but has, in my opinion, impeccable taste. The warm yet subdued color schemes, exquisite china, and romantic setting were perfect.
She chose my "Flourished Copperplate" lettering style for the envelope addressing, escort & place card addressing, and table cards.

Photos courtesy of Philipe Cheng Photography.

Why make a Wedding Map?

2008-07-21T21:46:00.000-07:00

.... Oh, because they are just the coolest ever. If I had thought of this eight years ago when I got married -- I would have made myself one. But alas, I did not - so I'm here pitching the idea to you. Not only are these fun and exciting to design, but they are fun to GIVE, and fun to GET. It's a win-win for everyone!

Here's how it works:

1. Get Engaged (or plan a gala)
2. Pick your destination
3. Call or email me
4. I'll get the details and whip out one of these babies.

And in case you are having trouble envisioning what the actual purpose or use would be, here are a few ways to put them to use:

a. Simply print to your invitation size and add into your invitation envelopes.
b. Print early and send as a double sided "Save the Date".
c. Hand out at the reception as a "favor" or memento of the happy occasion.

On a side note, these keepsake maps are not intended to be used for turn-by -turn directions, but for a guide to vicinity of the wedding {or other event} and general directions for area attractions. Click here for pricing.

Gorgeous Envelopes!

2008-07-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

Summer is upon us and not only have I managed to enjoy an extended vacation with family, I've probably convinced what readers I had that I would never return! So sorry to be gone so long.

I've really enjoyed working with a new acquaintance recently, Margot M. from design company, Atelier Isabey. I can rave about their luxurious invitations, or you can check out the site yourself - simply stunning work. This is a photo of an invitation/envelope she designed and I was happy to address such gorgeous envelopes. If you have ever seen a lovelier envelope, you can call me on it, but this is the winner for now!

Emily Post Wedding Invitation Idea

2008-05-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

Take a close look.... there is something very unique about this wedding invitation! The bride who asked me to address her invitation envelopes also asked to have each of her guests names written on the actual invitation itself. This idea was borrowed from a vintage Emily Post book.

As a successful writer and a woman of social position in her time, Emily Post's most notable publication was published in 1922, Etiquette - The Blue Book of Social Usage. Her "Blue Book," which was the American standard of etiquette for decades, was reported to be second only to the Bible as the book most often not returned or stolen from libraries! Emily Post believed that the key to good manners was to always keep in mind the feelings of others and act accordingly with good form of speech, proper social behavior and "charm of manner".

Quotes by Emily Post:

"Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use."

"Ideal conversation must be an exchange of thought, and not, as many of those who worry most about their shortcomings believe, an eloquent exhibition of wit or oratory."

"To the old saying that man built the house but woman made of it a home might be added the modern supplement that woman accepted cooking as a chore but man has made of it a recreation."

Too ~ Pretty Heart Garlands

2008-04-25T18:35:00.000-07:00

Loving this Etsy find!! These little paper garlands are just my cup of tea. Really inexpensive too! They are just what that bare wall needs. I'm also entertaining the thought of making my own..... (pink girly ones for princess Letty) although I have to say, there is something irreplaceable satisfying about buying someone else's creative endeavors.

Seller Cori Kindred says: "Made with lovely found and vintage papers, ten small paper heart flags make up this adorable garland. Perfect for Valentine's day or any day you need to feel some love..." Visit her little etsy shop here and nab yourself one of these goodies. One more reason I support her??? She's from my hometown, Portland OR :)

Beautiful Ambigrams by Tiffany Harvey

2008-04-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

An ambigram, also sometimes known as an inversion, is a graphical figure that spells out a word not only in its form as presented, but also in another direction or orientation. The text can also consist of a few words, and the the text spelled out in the other direction or orientation is often the same, but can also be a different text. Douglas R. Hofstadter describes an ambigram as a "calligraphic design that manages to squeeze two different readings into the selfsame set of curves."

I think this is a lovely idea that is not seen often in wedding stationery. Picture this on thank you cards, or on a program cover - how unique!

I had the pleasure of cyber-meeting Miss Tiffany Harvey recently, who created these lovely graphics you see. As a talented designer who creates custom Ambigrams, I was excited to introduce her to you! She creates intriguing and beautiful imagery, and is very knowledgeable and articulate on the craft she practices.

What is an ambigram?
I like to explain ambigrams as the merging of calligraphy and optical illusions. There are actually many types of ambigrams, they are basically any way you can draw a word that can be read from more than one perspective, and both Wikipedia and JohnLangdon.net have great examples of the various kinds. However, the most well known ambigrams are rotational designs: a word (or phrase) that reads the same upside down, or rotates to become a whole new word. These are the designs that I focus on.

When and how did ambigrams come to exist?
People have been creating ambigrams longer than they realize (some words, like "mom" create natural ambigrams), but in the '70's both John Langdon and Scott Kim started working independantly to discover just how many ways you can warp a word. Scott Kim published a book in 1981 called "Inversions", which is another common name for the designs. Ambigrams became more well-known recently when John Langdon created a series of designs for Dan Brown's book "Angels & Demons" (which also gained popularity with the release of the "The Da Vinci Code").

What inspired you to begin creating ambigrams?
An online friend of mine was asked to be in a book about words used as tattoos. When she posted a picture of her featured tattoo, John Langdon's mirrored design of "Balance", I had my frist glimpse of ambigrams. I rushed over to Langdon's site and was fascinated by the rotationals designs. I've always been interested in calligraphy, optical illusions, any kind of puzzle or secret code, so I had to give it a try myself. I first attempted my last name, "Harvey", which luckily was an almost natural ambigram on it's own (quickly drawn with a mouse here ). Then I tried pairing "Justin" and "Tiffany", my husband's and my name, which is suprisingly still one of my most popular ambigrams (it can be found on the front page of my site). After that I doodled any name or word I could think of, and after a few months of successful sketches, I started creating custom designs.

How do you create an ambigram?
First I write out the letters of the first name I want to use. Try to think of as many variations of the letter as you can, including lowercase letters, uppercase, cursive and variations in calligraphy. Then turn the page over and write the letters of the name again (or the second name you want to use). Start at one end and look for any similarities you can find between the two sets of letters. The more you create ambigrams, the more you will discover new ways to pair the letters, and you will build up a large index of possible letter combinations. It is also important to take a good look at different fonts and types of calligraphy. Try drawing the letters and notice where the lines curve, become thick or thin, what part are the same troughout the font. Having a good knowledge of fonts will help your ambigrams to become more readable and refined. Once you are finished, ask a friend to read the name(s), and get some honest feedback about what could be improved. You know what the design is supposed to say, and recognize the letters easily, but it may be hard to tell how readable the design actually is.

Can you create an Ambigram with any name under the sun?
One-word designs, which read the same upside down, can usually be created from any word or name. The best part about these is that you only have to create the first half of the design, flip that over to create the second half, and you are done! However, you certainly come across names that are not possible. Sometimes designs have tricky letter combinations that can be done in one font, but not another.

We love the way you can create one image using both a couples names. Is this something any couple can choose to do, or do their names have to have the same number of letters?
For two names to pair, they do not necessarily have to be the same number of letters, but they do need to be similar in length (normally no more than two letters different). Sometimes it is actually easier to create an ambigram from two names of different lengths than two with the same number of letters, it all depends on how the letters combine with one another. (Often one letter will turn into two or three letters when upside down, just rotate an "m" and see how easily you can create the word "ill".) But there are ways to get even the trickiest names to pair. Don't forget about formal versions of names, or nicknames. "Sammy" might be too short, but what about "Samantha"? I have often created an extra letter with a rotated "&" sign, or even the word "and" when there is a larger letter difference. You can put both of the names on the same line ("Justin and Tiffany", which would read the same upside down), or rotate them independantly ("Justin" and "Tiffany" becomes "Tiffany and "Justin"). And if all else fails, maybe it would be better to just use your last name?

Are there specific type faces you use, or can a customer request the look of a certain type of lettering?
I love working with a variety of fonts! While every design may not be possible with any font, most are pretty flexible. In general, Old English is usually the 'default' style for ambigram artists, because a lot of things can be hidden in those angles, but I really try to work with a wide range of font styles. Of course, the customer is the one who ultimately picks the font, and they usually choose their font from one of my previous designs, so I have done many designs in the same few fonts. (You can see all of my ambigrams, categorized by font styles, here )

Thank you Tiffany! You have really opened up the world of Ambigrams for me! The price is amazingly reasonable, and I can't wait to order mine and hubby's names, "Danny and Danae" which she assures me will be a breeze.

Visit her site at WordIllusion.com

Letterpress Invitation Suite in Hand Calligraphy

2008-04-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I recently worked with talented event coordinator, Talia from Sixpence Events in creating this invitation suite for her client. The client chose my Helinda Rook lettering style, and the package included the lettering for the invitation, RSVP card/envleope, and return addressing lettering. The digital file of my lettering was sent to a printer and was letterpress printed on soft white paper in navy ink. Simple and exquisite.

Helinda Rook detail:

LOGO Design: Aroma Du Jour

2008-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am lucky enough to have the best mother in law ever. As a savvy business woman, she has owned several successful businesses and is now expanding her interests into candle making. I was delighted to be given the opportunity to create the branding for 'Aroma Du Jour', as logo design is one of those things I could literally stay up all night doing.

Once Chantelle picked the French name, 'Aroma Du Jour' translated as "Scent of the Day', the fleur-de-lis seemed a natural fit, being a beautiful symbol associated with the French. On a more spiritual note, the fleur-de-lis has represented the Holy Trinity, and though it doesn't have a whole lot to do with candles, she liked the idea of representing her own beliefs through the logo.

Once the basic idea of what I was creating began to formulate, not just any old Fleur-de-lis image was going to do! We wanted feminine, delicate lines, clean yet imaginative. The lettering I used was a slanted copperplate, almost spencerian in appearance. The sweeping curves of the capital letters are again incorporated in the outlines to tie the two together. Purposefully eliminating unnecessary use of color and dimension, the image is still able to capture an airy garden feel.

I can't end this post without a little bit of a sales pitch. I, being a mooch *cough* I mean, relative, got first dibs on these delicious 100% soy candles. The presentation is lovely in the clear, footed glass jars and each scent is more scrumptious than the next. If you would like to get in on the action, you can contact Chantelle through her blog for now, but the website will be coming soon.

Ceramic Calligraphy

2008-04-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

I found this lovely website on my surfing one day and just had to share. Miss Stephanie DeAromond is super-talented and creates stunning ceramic letters as art sculptures.

"I am attracted to ornamental type, and I like it most when the type becomes so abstracted and hidden that it almost disappears in the decoration. That has been a big source for me, from illustrated manuscripts that were hand-painted to graffiti references." ~ Stephanie

How great of an idea to contact her for a custom made monogram to display in your home. I want one!!!

To read an interview with Stephanie visit here.

Calligraphic Love Plates

2008-04-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

How simply and utterly gorgeous are these???? I LOVE LOVE LOVE and will be adding to my cabinet very soon. These are the kind of plates you can pull out at a special little gathering for your girlfriends and have them ooh-ing and ahh-ing away. (via revolutionarygirl)

Dinner Menu's

2008-04-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

If you are planning a dinner menu, you should enlisted the help of a creative family member and caterer with your selections and wording. The wording for your dinner menu is very important, because it not only announces what you will be serving for the evening, but it creates the anticipation and expectancy of what is to come. Kind of like.... window shopping. Who doesn't love window shopping almost as much as the real thing, right? And just as a beautifully and properly addressed wedding envelope sets the standard for what is to come, a dinner menus layout and verbage should be thought over carefully and created to balance well with all other other elements at the table.

This simple yet lovely menu was designed by me, and letterpress printed by jazyrain on Crane's Rounded and Hand-Beveled Gold Edge Pearl White Menu Cards. This is an absolute stunning choice of paper to use for menu cards and even have coordinating place cards. As an alternative to writing out the entire menu in script, the hand calligraphy was paired with a bold typeface.

If you are unsure of what you would like your menu to look at, contact me and I will make the design process easy for you. I listen to your ideas, look at the stationary you have used and take into consideration the theme and colors of your wedding. Sample sketches are always proofed before finalizing, and only the best papers and printers are recommended.

Pretty Place Cards

2008-04-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

What I love about wedding place cards is that they don't have to conform to any one style, color scheme, shape, etc. You can pretty much do what you want as long as the name is legible and it doesn't take up too much space. It is usually a nice idea to match the lettering style to that on the invitation envelopes, but not an absolute necessity if you are going for a different feel on your reception.

The place cards pictures here are in a lovely shade of "Tiffany Blue" (my new favorite color this spring!) and are done in "Luna De Miel", a lettering style I created. I love this lettering style because although it has the delicate thick-to-thin lines that mimic the gorgeous Copperplate scripts, it flows with long curly stems that feel playfully romantic.

If that isn't playful enough, the "Mambo" lettering style I created certainly is! Pictured here in red, with a swirly black accent behind to add that delicate touch. See a review of this lettering style here.

Graceful Envelope Contest

2008-04-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

I have sadly neglected my blog these last few weeks! At least you know I have been a good girl and been making a lot of pretty letters. In between this spring rush of wedding orders, I am soon going to take the time, (for the first time) to enter the "Graceful Envelope Contest". I have been reminding myself to enter year after year, and finally, in my 27th year of life, I have decided to take the plunge. I wanted to blog about it now, so that those of you who *gasp* may have not heard of it, and have some artsy tendencies, can get your envelope mailed in time! The theme this year is "C's the day!" That means: ANYTHING that begins with the letter "C". (....Coffee Cake and Creamy Cappuccino??)

Click here for the complete details. Good Luck!!!

~Pictured below are my two favorite winning entires from 2007, where "A Mailable Feast" was the category~

2007 Winners Category: Monica Lima Mirones

2007 Honorable Mentions Category: Cindy Cooper

St. Johns Bible

2008-03-11T19:44:00.000-07:00

I am in awe. Have you heard of this? The St. Johns bible was commissioned to master calligrapher and artist Donald Jackson. It was his life's dream to write the bible by hand! If only I had such grand aspirations.... it is my joy to write scriptures, but the very thought of something as huge as this makes me want to eat two chocolate bars in one sitting. It is the first completely handwritten and illuminated bible since the invention of the printing press.

"Like the great manuscripts of the past, The Saint John’s Bible is meant to speak to generations to come, igniting the imagination, encouraging a rich engagement with the Scriptures and inviting people to explore a living tradition of art, spirituality and theology through the written and illuminated word."

The Saint John’s Bible is seven volumes and two feet tall by three feet wide when open. The Bible is made of vellum, with 160 illuminations, and has cost $4 million to produce. The version of the Bible used is the New Revised Standard Version .

If you must purchase one of these prints, I won't argue!

Mongrams are SO great

2008-03-05T20:31:00.000-08:00

I love monograms. Properly used, you can do so much with 'em! Here are some ideas:

If you are getting married...

You'll most likely want to use initials only, but really, anything goes.
~Napkins
~Custom Cake Topper (Glass Etching...?)
~ Invitation, menu & program integration
~ Thank you notes for after
~ His & her tatoos....{j/k!}

Anything Else...

~Customized Notecards.
~ Have a set of letterpressed coasters made
~Make into a rubber stamp! (Labeling, signatures...etc, etc.)
~ Embroider anything (except your clothing. That might get weird.)

A good chance...

2008-02-29T11:32:00.000-08:00

OOh, Miss B from Bella Bella Co is offering a customized rubber stamp giveway with calligraphy by yours truly! You can go by and leave a comment on her blog to be included in the drawing, so hurry your busy little fingers over :) ... and be sure to take a good look at the rest of the blog - she gives away wonderfully useful downloads every friday and has amazing designs in her etsy shop.

More Envelope Calligraphy... and some thoughts.

2008-02-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

I do ALOT of envelope addressing. More than actually loving the tediousness of writing out 200 envelopes in a meticulous push-and-release-pressure method, I love interacting with people, I love creating something that will stop them in their tracks and let them feel the pleasure of holding something beautiful and handmade with individual attention. And hopefully, not only my customer will love the calligraphy, but the hundreds of other people who open their mailbox's, anticipating just another bill, will *GASP* at delight at the first glimpse of an extraordinary event.
And I must admit, that on the practical side, I am a wee bit selfish, and know that with every hour of sitting at my art desk, I am improving my skills - and of course, I wouldn't be doing this without the high hopes of becoming the next Louis Madarasz (...a female one!)