A Shade Better Than Stick Figures

3 drawings and a brief update...

2011-11-20T19:48:00.005-06:00

3 Drawings...I'm a horrible artist- not based on how these look, but that fact that I was given the pictures to draw back in August while I was working on the dog pictures from the previous post and I just finished them yesterday...so much for my "2 week turn around time", huh? Which leads me to my update:
Shortly after my last post I was contacted about a position (you know because I was laid off from my previous awesome job as a receptionist where I could knit and draw and read while at the front desk, in August)...so I started as a temp for a really great company in September- as a receptionist, and they thought I was so awesome at answering phones (I'm being slightly sarcastic here...I really hope it wasn't for my phone skills), they promoted me to the Accounting department after only a few weeks. So I'm now the accounting clerk, which is more like an analyst position, but I'm not going to get into semantics about what my title is...I'm just very thankful to have a job right now, and hope that when my 90 days comes in a few weeks, that they hire me on permanent. So with that being said- I don't get to knit or draw or read books at work anymore. Even when I was the receptionist at the new job, I wasn't allowed to knit or draw or read...which was more than fine with me, because I stayed pretty busy. But because of that, my two week turn around time with drawings, is completely shredded. I work over time a lot at this job- so that means I have to stay late...it's closer to where I live, but even in this awesome Dallas traffic, it takes me an hour to get home, and since I'm actually having to use my brain for the majority of my work day (not that I didn't use my brain at the other job, it was just an easy position that didn't require me to think of outcomes, or do anything further than data entry...), I usually come home and take a nap on the couch...or go to bed by 8pm. Which doesn't really leave a whole lot of time for me to draw...plus in August (prior to the layoff), I joined a knitting group that meets one Saturday every month...we're making The Great American Aran Afghan...so while the class is only one day a month- the knitting part takes up a ton of time.

So in summary- I've been busy. I've neglected the blog. I sleep a lot. I use my brain a lot. I haven't had a lot of time for drawing. But I've drawn. I've knitted. I got a new awesome job at a really great company. Things are looking up. Hopefully I can keep up with the blog- maybe set aside a day a week to catch up. I haven't even checked the blogs I frequent in 2.5 months. I'm a horrible person...I know :P
Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving and in the off chance that I don't update, I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and whatever else holiday season. Although I'm hoping to get on here around my birthday this year...I'm turning a really great age, that most people my age freak out about- but I'm actually really excited about it...so you know, I'm sure I'll have a story to share.
Take care everyone!

"Molly..." series Complete

2011-08-30T10:49:00.004-05:00

"Molly in the Pool"

This was another one of those that I wasn't too sure how it would turn out. I'm still not sure that I'm completely 100% happy with it, but I think it looks pretty good. I enjoyed playing with the ripples in the water and doing the detail of the tile along the side of the pool. I usually ignore the surrounding images in photos I'm drawing from, but it was requested that I keep them in for this picture.

"Molly on Tile"

This was such a sweet image. The dog looked so content and relaxed and like it was a lazy hot Sunday afternoon, best spent getting as much of the cool feel of the tile as possible. The photo was taken at an angle, and originally I did draw it with a straight angle to the floor, but I think having seen it tilted in the photo, made me think the straight on look was boring...so I re-drew it like this...I'm still waiting on the final verdict- to see if they like the tilt, or want me to change it. I personally hope they want it left like this, as there's just something about it drawn like this, that makes me feel like I'm right there on the tile with her, enjoying the cool touch of the floor. I'm sure it would have the same effect if it was straight on too, but I personally like it this way.

"Molly Portrait"

This is such a classic pose. I thought it was perfect to save for the last drawing in the series. And it was wonderful to draw, all that texture in the fur, the light in her eyes, the set of her ears (can you tell she was fixed on someone about to throw a ball or a stick?). I just really thought it was a great image to draw, and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed drawing all of them. The owners were lucky to have such a wonderful dog for so many years that they considered their child. I've been informed that the previous 2 drawings have been help in aiding with coming to terms of losing their beloved Molly, and in a few weeks or months they will be seeking to rescue a new puppy or two- which really makes me feel good about these drawings. I'm glad I could help them receive some closure.

"Molly Rolling in the Grass"

2011-08-20T09:21:00.003-05:00

I was leery of drawing this at first, afraid that it would look too flat. I had planned to save this for the last in the "Molly series", but decided to go ahead and tackle my fear head on and just start over if I didn't like it.
I lightened up some of the darker shaded areas from the original photograph- thinking that it might make the drawing look less flat, and I think that was accomplished- at least to my eyes it looks that way. What do you think? Does she look like she's rolling in grass? Or does it just look like she's flat? To me she looks like she's taking a nap...but I can see the depth- can you?

On a side note, I was let go from my full time job yesterday :(, they are downsizing and trying to reduce costs where they can. I completely understand, and there's no hard feelings at all, I'm just bummed because I won't get to see my awesome co-workers everyday, or get drawing requests as they walk by my desk. I think at the moment it all just feels surreal to me. Like thinking about Monday. Do I set an alarm? I need to find a job ASAP, but if I set my alarm to get up early and begin my search, I'm afraid that I'll get up and just start my Monday routine like I've done almost every Monday for the last 3 1/2 years. I don't want to be 1/2 way to my old job and realize "holy crap I don't work there anymore!", but at the same time I'm like "uh...wait a minute, can I really not set an alarm? I mean...is it really ok to go ahead and sleep in?"...It's weird...I haven't been in a position like this in 5 years...being unemployed is awkward for me.
It's bitter sweet too though. I really enjoyed working there, but I can say without a doubt, I will not miss answering the phones. I really hope my next position in life, will not be at the front desk...purely for the fact that I think I'm ready for a bigger challenge...even if that means I can't draw during working hours :P

"Molly by the Pool"

2011-08-15T09:03:00.002-05:00

My coworker has been telling me about the pictures of her dog that her husband wanted done for the last year or so. I've finally (happily) been bombarded with them, so prepare yourselves for a festive next few weeks of pictures (which my blog certainly could use more of these days!).

I did complete the second drawing of the couple from the last post...but after scanning them, they look so similar I didn't want to get comments about how I double posted a picture...so I'm not going to post it. But it is happily on it's way to the requester...so hopefully it arrives safely, in a timely manner.

I have been slacking on drawing, which I apologize for. I have 2 jobs now (on top of drawing), as well as a knitting class that I take once a month that leaves me with enough knitting homework, that it takes up my free time...so, I'll work hard to crank out these next few drawings, and then I'll finish my knitted square for the month. But feel free to request drawings to your hearts content...I like staying busy.

Take care everyone! :)

Heidi's grandparents

2011-08-04T08:28:00.002-05:00

I love drawing people. It's a fact. I recently saw an episode of NY Ink, where one of the tattoo artists was feeling burned out from tattooing portraits- I understood his feelings, as I went thru something similar not too long ago with drawing portraits. But I really enjoy people watching, which in turn makes me really enjoy people drawing, and thus the cycle begins again.

Heidi recently contacted me about doing 2 drawings of her grandparents, both have recently passed. I don't particularly like the circumstances that surround the reason for the request; but I do feel humbled that someone puts their trust in me to draw someone they love as a memorial for them to cherish for years to come.

Yes you did read that the request was for 2 drawings, yet I'm only posting one. Part of that is because I haven't received approval for the second drawing yet, and the other part is, the second drawing, while it's nearly identical to this drawing posted above...there are some differences. It's really hard to draw the same image twice. #1- there's the burn out factor. Sometimes I feel like "I already drew this", so it's hard to put pencil to a clean sheet of paper just to do the same motions again...and then #2- the person wants 2 drawings of the same photo- which is easy in some respect (you've done one...how hard can the second be?), but one wrong stroke of the pencil can make the entire image look completely different from the first. I don't think the second image looks completely different, but if I look closely I can tell it's not the same drawing (which is a good thing, I think). I think separately they look good, both resemble the original photograph...but they do not completely resemble each other. Either way, I hope that both drawings are received well. It was great to get back into the swing of things. There was just something so right about holding that pencil. :)

Try to stay cool everybody! This summer has been a scorcher!

Back at it!

2011-06-13T09:58:00.002-05:00

While I haven't drawn anything in a week or two, I'm deciding my hiatus from taking drawing requests is over. I'm sure I'll still draw a freebie here and there, because when the drawing bug hits, I can't help myself. But if you are interested in having a drawing done from your photograph, please don't hesitate to contact me: ASBTSF@gmail.com. I've updated my website to reflect that I'm taking drawing requests again. Please note the new prices and FAQs before placing your order.

Hope everyone is doing well!

"Morgan"

2011-05-07T12:13:00.001-05:00

My mom requested that I draw a picture for a woman that she's been working with. After humming and hawing about it for the last few weeks, I decided to give it a go last Saturday.

"Quit tapping on the glass!"

2011-04-14T10:20:00.002-05:00

Something magical happened last week. I wished someone a happy birthday on facebook (someone I don't know personally, but is friends with Gonzo)- and his response was "What did you draw me?" It takes me back a few steps when someone I don't personally know, knows that I draw. Even when it's someone I know through work that asks "what have you been drawing lately?". I don't know why...but it freaks me out (in a good way- sometimes I forget I have a website, a blog and a fan page...and that Gonzo likes to talk about me drawing). So I asked this person what he would like me to draw for him and his response was "a chimp holding an AR-15". I have never drawn a gun before. And I don't condone giving chimps guns (although there are days, when I visit the zoo, that I wonder what a monkey/chimp/orangutan is really thinking when people tap on the glass of their enclosures...I used to know a certain silver back gorilla at the Ft. Worth zoo who HATED children banging on his enclosure.), but this seemed like a relatively quirky thing to draw, so I said "why not" and threw caution to the wind. I had been roughing him out for a few days, and finally just dove head first into it yesterday while at work. Took about 3 hours. While I was drawing him I just kept going "oh this looks like crap!""Why did I draw that line?""Geez, he's probably going to just throw it away, this is such a mess"...I don't know why, but this line of thought goes thru my head for just about every drawing...and then I scan it...and low and behold I'm like a little kid. "Holy crap! I drew that??? Geez! That's awesome!" It's just something about seeing it on a computer screen vs. right in front of me on paper...it's weird. And you know what- it happened with this drawing too. I still have a few issues with the chimp, but the gun looks pretty sweet for a first time drawing a gun...In my opnion. Anyway. I'm drawing. The End.

remember me?

2011-04-06T14:17:00.008-05:00

I feel it's time for an update- but I have no pictures to share- so I'm sorry in advance. You remember the drawing I was talking about in the last post (2 months ago...), I haven't touched it since I wrote that. He's sitting on a couch in between pages of a sketchbook. I've doodled some, and done a whole lot of thinking "I should really draw something" and then not picking up a pencil. It's like writers block only with art...artist-block? Which is painful no matter what it's called. I got so frustrated and paniced that I haven't drawn anything to completion, that I went so far as to contact a long lost "friend"* and ask for them to send me a photo of a drawing I did for them 10 years ago and never took a picture of- in hopes of the magical "thing" that makes me draw would be awakened...after sending a rambling email, then cursing myself the minute I sent it for sounding like a crazy person asking for "magical images of long lost creative art"- a friend posted a photo on Facebook of her daughter. A really adorable photo, which I stole** (in this case it's really not like stealing, it's saving an image to be used to make great things- to be sent to the parents FREE of charge- no stealing, I borrowed. an image. online. Not stealing. at least not in this case) I started drawing it...last Thursday. It's small scale- 8 x 10"...and then I had to run an errand. It felt really good to draw. I'll get back to it- someday. You know what felt even better while I was drawing it though? The fact that it's a surprise and no one knows that I'm drawing it (you don't even really know the exact image I'm talking about- so even you, dear reader, have no idea...more of the surprise factor there). I think I like drawing "surprises" more than taking orders for custom drawings. Sure free surprises don't help pay any bills, but if it doesn't make me happy then why do it? I like the free surprises and I'm sure a lot of people enjoy that I like making free surprises. **To those people who think I'm giving you permission to steal/save images from the web and do whatever with- I'm not saying that. You should always ask permission before using an image you find on the web (or even in print for that matter)- you should make every effort possible to contact the owner of the image before using it (or at least give credit to the source). If you never receive permission- you should move on to something different. That's just my 2 cents. In my case- this is a friend, who I know won't mind that I'm using her photo- especially since she's getting a drawing because of it. *And to my "friend" from 10 years ago- if you ever read this- I'm so sorry for the rambling-crazy-sounding message. You make me nervous. Plus there's really no good way to say "I lost my mojo for drawing! Help me help myself by taking a photo of that thing I drew for you forever ago"...I guess if I didn't sound crazy you might not have believed it was me asking for it. I will continue to live with this art-block and hope that it goes away soon, because I miss posting pictures for all to see- and I've been told I have "secret followers"! Which makes me giddy. But also sad, because you are having to read blocks of text instead of seeing images. I'll work on it, promise (I'll work on it even for those that follow so boldly- all 9 of you- I love you 9, but I also will secretly love my secret followers too- don't worry I blog stalk people all the time without publicly following them..hehehe).

My oh my

2011-02-21T13:20:00.002-06:00

(warning!!! Word heavy!!! And no pictures!!!!)

Where is the time going? I have been one giant lazy lump this month!
Still on a semi-break from drawing (not really, but I really don't want to share what I have been doodeling). I knitted there for awhile and set a pretty big goal of knitting one hat and one scarf every month to give to a charity at the end of the year (so 12 hats and 12 scarves by December...)- I'm ahead of my quota so far, but I haven't knitted anything in February. I'm attempting to re-teach myself how to crochet since it's been almost 10 years since I have crochet anything. I'll be honest, I never learned to read patterns back then...I didn't even know what the abbreviations stood for. Now that I picked up and love knitting, I thought I would learn crocheting the right way. If only the phones would stop ringing at work for me to pick it up and keep count of the stitches...Wondering if now is the best time to try to learn something, when I should stick with my original quota...

I will share with you that I have been drawing. In fact I picked up this years Vanity Fair- Oscar's edition based on the famous faces in the photos. I thought I would go back to my roots of drawing (man that makes me sound old!), of drawing famous people from the pages of magazines. I drew a picture of Minnie Driver, which looks absolutely horrible! Drawing on a curved surface (new sketchbook- won't lay flat), from a curved surface (magazine, which also won't lay flat) caused it to come out all wonkie- I'm sure if you looked at 1" sections you would be able to recognize her- but overall it's a giant mess.
Then this weekend I decided I needed to make something on a bigger scale, so I grabbed my 11" x 14" sketchbook, and ripped the page from Vanity Fair that has Jeff Bridges' picture on it, out of the magazine (no curves this time!...The Sketchbook is spiral bound- thank God!) So, I'm working on that now. It's bigger and I'm really paying close attention to detail, so it'll be awhile before it's done. I've had to redraw the nose 4 times already, so there's no telling when I'll be finished, or if I'll like the final product. Hopefully I'll be able to post the completed work, whether I like it or not :)
While drawing Mr. Bridges, though, I realized- I used to be so good at drawing the 8"x10" drawings for everyone that I rushed thru them, a lot of the time. Don't get me wrong, I still drew what people wanted and with details, but I don't think I ever stopped and really LOOKED at the photos, and examined the photos details. I think I got so wrapped up in the "2 week turn around? I can have this sucker done in 2 hours!" that I stopped really seeing what I should have been seeing. So I'm taking my time with Mr. Bridges. I spent about an hour just looking at his right eye and getting the proportions correct and adding wrinkles with just the right shading. At this rate, I'll be done with it in a year :)

Oh and on a side note, I watched the movie "The Cool School" this weekend. I don't really know what to feel about it. I like watching documentaries...particularly ones about art (because they usually make me want to pick up a pencil or brush...which this one did)- but this one just left me feeling kind of void. #1 I have always hated pop art. At least when it comes to Andy Warhol- it's like he was making a big joke of art- or saying "this is so easy anyone can do it"- which has always infuriated me (They only talk about him for about 15 minutes). But then they were showing what kind of competition exsisted in this group of artists back in the 60s, which made me kind of sad. They would make complete crap, and know it was complete crap, but they wanted to have their stuff in this gallery, so they would hang it and silently be freaking out, but having a cocky attitude about it while the show was going on. It was just a little wierd to me, watching that movie and seeing these old artists relive their hayday...I'm glad I wasn't an artist in the 60s.
But about pop art...now I've become a fan of Banksy, which is pop art in a way- I loved "Exit Through The Gift Shop", even though it wasn't about Banksy (or was it? :P). I love the street art phenomina that's happening, that's clashing with pop art to create something vivid and real and new(ish). I don't care for Mr. Brainwash, and even while the movie was going on I took moments to go "He can't be serious" (and that was before I read online reviews about the movie). But I do like Banksy, and I'm probably partially crazy because I take time to look at the graffiti that's left around town to SEE it...really SEE it. I think it's amazing what can be accomplished with a spray paint can and a little imagination.

hands

2011-01-31T16:21:00.003-06:00

I'm still drawing, from time to time :)
This one is with a black ball point pen in a sketch book- from a photograph in an Anatomy book.

Hello? Is this thing on?

2011-01-13T11:28:00.002-06:00

Hello 2011...hehe. I meant to write this last week.
Changes they are a-happening. Thank you for that new year. I've been knitting, and writing- but not drawing.
I have a bit of drawing-block right now. I tried to draw some yesterday when I thought the mood was stricking, but for whatever reason I just couldn't draw anything of interest. I've been interested in painting lately, but- well...I don't really have an excuse for not breaking out the brushes, other than pure lazyness.
I went to the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival last weekend. A lot of really talented artists were there. But I was sick (I'm still sick), so I didn't enjoy it as much as I could have. I didn't even find myself remotely curious in getting tattooed. I was just all sorts of off my game. But the art, in their little gallery was stunning, to say the least. Really puts my stuff to shame, but encourages me to keep at it. So yes. While I don't have anything to show you now, hopefully the block will be lifted soon and I will have some pretty little images to share with you.
Hope everyone's 2011 is off to a good start!

So long 2010- I will not miss you!

2010-12-30T08:22:00.003-06:00

This year was kind of rough, it started with being in the hospital recovering from 2 surgeries. My first craft show (which was really exciting) was a blast in the spring; I had to cancel 2 other craft shows I was supposed to go to- one because of weather and the other because of a funeral; the 4th craft show was fun, and the 5th show that I was supposed to do turned into a debacle and a refund and me not showing- which was all very stressful and expensive to get ready for only to end up not doing it. The 4th show produced a lot of custom orders which I was very thankful for- but I had grown tired and stressed and cranky. I decided to not do custom orders anymore in 2010, which makes me kind of sad, but relieved to have a break. In August I moved and in doing so I messed up my back. After an MRI, and a neuro-surgeon visit and being referred to the rudest pain management doctor and his staff of morons I learned my *only* option was a steroid shot- which got cancelled at the last minute because I had to have a tooth pulled and heaven forbid they give me a shot the day after that for fear of infection (hello, I had 2 emergency surgeries within 20 hours at the beginning of the year and no infection- pretty sure I could have handled it). Really glad I didn't get the shot- instead I turned to Eastern Medicine- Ayurveda. While it didn't cure me on the first visit to Pranaa, it helped my back feel better for a few weeks. I followed it up with a back massage that helped for a few hours and then I took up Yoga- which I honestly hate- but it does make my back feel better. This week has been the first full week since July that my back has not hurt.
What does this all mean? you ask?
Well, I was stressed out this year, and cranky. In April I also started orthodontics, which just adds to the crankiness every 6 weeks when they have to tighten something. My commute to my 8-5 job has increased and it leaves me a complete wreck by the time I get home at night. I'm not complaining- I want to offer an apology. I took out my frustrations and stress on several people this year, including people who ordered custom drawings- I am so very sorry. I was a cranky mess and difficult to work with- which should have never happened. I should have taken a leave at the beginning of 2010 to recover from the surgeries and find my happy place before diving in and getting overwhelmed. So I am truly sorry for my behavior and attitude this past year.
What can you expect from me in 2011? A few more posts than the end of 2010- I will still be on hiatus from taking custom orders until further notice, but I'm hoping to post some doodles and completed work in the coming year. I did actually draw between the last post and now, but didn't really want to post the outcome. Hopefully in 2011 I will also be happier and less grumpy to people- seriously, 2010 year of Amber being a grump is done!
Oh and for the few of you who are curious- I will NOT be doing any craft shows this year. While I thoroughly enjoyed the Funky Finds Spring Fling last spring and had fun at the Cowtown Indie Bazaar in the fall- I just don't have the energy or the drive to do it right now. I had fun being booth buddies with The Curious Cake Shoppe and wish them well in the coming year! I can't wait to see how they do with the new business The Curious Canvas!
I hope 2010 comes to a peaceful and happy close to all of you, and I hope that 2011 brings you much happiness and joy. Here's to a year full of art!

Moving forward

2010-11-08T11:03:00.002-06:00

Things happen in life where you take a step back and begin to contemplate where you are heading.
I recently posted on the facebook fan page that I am taking a break from drawing for money and gave a very vague description of why.
There are very few people who actually know the real reasons why, and some who like to mock me for it. I hate having to defend myself.
Even more so I hate having to defend myself to the one person who pushed me so hard to draw for money more frequently and start "A Shade Better Than Stick Figures" as a legit business. I'm left feeling frustrated and utterly alone in my decision. And since this person's feelings have come to light about my decision to take a break, I've heard from several other people- who don't know the whole story that have the same negative things to say to me.
I understand that people are a little confused about why anyone would want to take a break from drawing for money. I totally understand that. Is there something that you do? Craft wise maybe? Or something creative wise or even mechanic wise? Where you started doing it, because it made you feel happy? It wasn't about other people, just you. Then someone saw that you were doing something that they couldn't and asked you to do it for them- for money...and then someone else...and another person? And soon it's been 5 years of doing something for other people, and you no longer do it for yourself, and you can't understand why you just don't feel motivated or happy to be doing that something just because someone is handing you money? Does it make sense?

Anyway- I'm not tired of drawing. I'm not tired of money. I'm tired of the two being linked together as a means for me to have a second income and suck the life out of any creativity that I once had. I just want to draw when I want to draw, and I want to draw what I want to draw- not what anyone else is telling me they want me to draw. People may think that I'm squandering my talent by not sharing it with the world and selling portraits to people- "just because I can"...but to me, it's the exact opposite. If I continue down this path then I won't be who I know I am. My art is my own, and yes I want to be selfish about it for awhile. I'll still post stuff that I'm working on- but don't expect any portraits for awhile. Who knows, maybe I produce some of my best stuff to date while I'm being selfish...only time will tell.

Cutest. Baby. Ever. Part IV

2010-10-27T18:38:00.003-05:00

I had the most fun drawing this one. I love Cove's eyes, I love the photos his mom takes. They just all have so much detail in the faces. And this kid...I don't know if they get him to pose the way he does or if it's just natural for him to look so freakin' cute all the time- but whatever it is, I love drawing from Jennifer's photos.

(and yes, it totally looks like his finger is sticking in his nose...even cuter)

Cutest. Baby. Ever. Part III

2010-10-27T18:34:00.002-05:00

This one I think I bit off more than I can chew. I saw "cute baby with a cowboy hat that's too big for his head!!! I must draw it!" and thought "I can totally draw the details in that hat!" and then once it got to the hat part I wasn't really in a detail mood. But overall I think it turned out ok...The dark part of the hat could have been a little lighter to go with the rest of the drawing, but...I kind of like how it looks.

Cutest. Baby. Ever. Part II

2010-10-27T18:33:00.003-05:00

I made this a series...because I can't get enough of this baby. So cute!

I don't really know what else to say about it.

Cutest. Baby. Ever.

2010-09-17T08:30:00.002-05:00

Oh man, how cute!?! This is Cove. One of the quietest babies I have ever met in my life, and also one of the cutest babies I have ever seen. If not THE cutest. I don't even know what to say about the drawing because he's just that cute. You can expect to see more drawings of this little guy, as his mom Jennifer is an amazing photographer.

Details of the drawing: 8 1/2" x 11" paper (regular old printer paper)- pencils used: HB, B, 2B, and 4B pencils.

I might actually go back and darken the strap of his tank top a little, as I'm seeing it's blending in with his cute little cheek there. So yeah...I just can't get over the cuteness that is Cove.
Have a great weekend everyone!

Horse- with corrections

2010-09-16T14:19:00.002-05:00

Ok, so here is the corrected Horse drawing (photo, not scanned, now you can see all of it). I actually had to do a lot more tweeking with the eye, so the one seen in this photo isn't even the final product (I spaced out and forgot to take a picture of the whole horse after I finished the eye...I have no idea what my problem is...because the new eye looks so much cooler. I have a close up of it, but I'm not posting it here.)

So honestly, which horse do you like better? This one or the one in the previous post?

Horse

2010-09-13T14:09:00.003-05:00

Shhhh, this horse hasn't been delivered yet! And it's actually not completed either. I just got word today that the commissioner of this piece would like me to blend the cheek area (so the veins are less visible) and the nose...as well as blacken the eye- pretty sure I saw the pupil in the photo I was working from, but what the commissioner wants, the commissioner gets. I actually really enjoyed drawing this horse- I wish I had a bigger scanner so I could fit it all in- there's a lot more of the neck visible in the real drawing. I'm going to make the adjustments tonight and then take a photo of it, maybe it won't look bad (I just really prefer scanned images to photos of drawings, you know?), then maybe I'll post the corrected image. I'm pretty sure you will all agree that the corrected image looks better than this one. But we shall see.

Sorry I've been so absent from posting drawings lately. It was a slow time there for awhile, and I think I needed the break. But my pencils are sharpened and ready and my sketchbook is standing by. Feel free to become a fan on Facebook (or I guess it's called "like" my page on facebook...which just sounds weird to me), A Shade Better Than Stick Figures TM and join in the fun of Sketchy Thursdays. Today is the day that you can start posting suggestions for drawings that you would like to see me draw (not from a photo, but just something that you think would be challenging for me...example: skydiving kitties; Cow in a tornado; a bus; butterflies, etc. You can also add if you want to see it cartoony, or realistic, or from still life, or whatever you think would be cool- or just leave that part up to me.), on Thursday I'll pick one suggestion and draw it over the weekend- posting the winning suggested drawing on Monday. Hope everyone participates. It's a weekly thing (granted the last 2 weeks I've been MIA on the project with other things I was working on)
It's good to be back in blogland and it's great to be back drawing.

Lulu and Bubbles

2010-09-13T14:00:00.003-05:00

This weekend I had the honor of drawing these 2 cute dogs. I really hope the recipient of this drawing loves it as much as I loved drawing it. The person who asked me to draw them was getting it done for a present for the owner of the dogs. One of which passed away.

I get asked a lot of the time if I like drawing white dogs, or if it's hard to draw them.
I do like drawing white dogs, they are challenging- since they are drawn onto white paper, but I think that I have done a fairly decent job with all of the white dogs that I have drawn of still conveying that they look white on a white background. I don't think that it's hard to draw them, just challenging...and I love a good challenge.

After I emailed the woman about the drawing being done, she asked if I could add their names under the bench, but above the leaves- which I did- I just forgot to scan it before I gave it to her, so this is the completed drawing sans dog names.

Good times!

2010-09-07T10:23:00.003-05:00

The Cowtown Indie Bazaar this past Saturday was awesome! I had a great time and met a lot of really great people! We had a lot of lookers and I'm really excited to be hearing from the people who said they might be interested in a drawing in the future. I have one that I'm currently working on (well not while I'm at work- I have no way to protect it from the rain- which is what it's doing today and looks like it will be doing the rest of the week- I can't afford even one sprinkle to get on the paper between my car and the door so...yeah...it's at home)- so as soon as it's complete I'll post it up here. Maybe later this week sometime.
If you made it out to the Cowtown Indie Bazaar, did you have a good time? What was your favorite vendor? Did you see anything that you want to purchase for yourself? Or for a loved one?
I was neighbors with my good friend Tania at The Curious Cake Shoppe which is always a blast. She had a ton of traffic. I found myself purchasing more goodies from Eye On The Sparrow which is one of my favorite vendors (I purchased earrings from her last spring). I love that she uses guitar strings to make jewelry..so clever! I also found some fabulous jewelry over at Freeforged Jewelry- which is definitely on my wish list- they were set up right across the walkway from me and I was staring at their stuff all day. I should have brought some extra money with me to buy a ring or the really cute twig earrings they had. There were several artists set up with some of the most beautiful paintings I have ever seen- but I wasn't able to grab any of their business cards (I walked the show before it opened to the public, and a lot of vendors hadn't finished setting up yet- so there were no business cards available- then when the show started, I didn't have very much time to walk the show- and as soon as 6pm hit- everyone started tearing down their booths). I had a lot of fun! Thank you to everyone who made it out! You made it an awesome show! And special thanks to my mom for helping to keep me company in my booth for most of the morning and early afternoon!

2 things

2010-08-25T11:31:00.002-05:00

Just 2 things today- neither are art.

1. Don't forget about the Cowtown Indie Bazaar that is coming up on September 4th. I will be there displaying some art and something a little fun (if I can find all of my boxes from moving that contained parts of it so I can work on it). And The Curious Cake Shoppe will also be there! So come check us out and support the local craft/art community.

2. I've started something a little fun (well maybe it's more fun for me...whatever) on my facebook fan page. Starting on Monday's (as long as I'm awake enough to remember), I'll post a message about leaving a comment of something you would like to see me draw (you can specify if you want to see it realistically or cartoony or whatever- if you don't specify, I get to decide). On Thursdays at 5pm I'll pick a random comment and draw it (I put the suggestions in a hat- I don't just pick and choose). I give myself until Monday morning to finish and post the drawing chosen. Last week I managed to get the drawings done before Friday. So if it sounds like something you'd be interested in taking part in, or you have a suggestion of something you would like to see me draw- head over the fan page on facebook and leave a comment on the Monday post.

Looking forward to seeing the suggestions :)

New drawing

2010-08-11T08:33:00.002-05:00

After a brief hiatus from drawing I'm back. I drew the image here for a co-worker of mine. Didn't take me long to draw at all, which was surprising, since it's been over 2 months since I picked up a pencil- even to doodle. Glad it was like riding a bike this time.

I'll probably be a little dead on the blog again for the next few weeks- I'm in the process of moving- so everything is boxed up at the moment and I'm not sure when I'll be able to unpack everything.
I've been knitting and sewing (more knitting than sewing though). I actually have to get all of the sewing out of the way before the Cowtown Indie Bazaar in September (don't forget about that show! Saturday September 4th)- as I'm going to be selling something that isn't drawings :O Shocking I know (no worries though, I'll still have plenty of drawings for sale).

anyway, I've missed it here in blog land. Hopefully after I move I can make it a regular thing again.

First notice of the Cowtown Indie Bazaar!

2010-07-13T16:16:00.003-05:00

I know I've been neglecting the blog (if I had anything new to show, trust me it wouldn't be neglected)...but guess what's more neglected...my actual website! I need to totally re-do it but I don't have time right now. I almost forgot about it until I got notice that A Shade Better Than Stick Figures has been accepted as a vendor in this years Cowtown Indie Bazaar in Ft. Worth TX...they linked the website to the notice. Oye! I haven't updated that since April.
Maybe I can set aside some time this weekend to work on it- make it look a little better...maybe flow a little more with the blog here, since I like how this looks.

Anyway, The Cowtown Indie Bazaar should be awesome, it sounds a lot like the Funky Finds show I did back in March- so once again I will be manning the booth, while dying to run to other vendors to buy things I can't live without. Again, I will be next door (well in the next booth) to my good friends over at the Curious Cake Shoppe. I'm looking forward to this show.

You want details:
When: Saturday September 4th from 9am-6pm
Where: Will Rogers Memorial Center click here for specific address
What kind of "stuff" will be there?: 100% Indie, 100% handmade items. More than 80 artisans, designers, and crafters. Clothing and jewelry, original artwork, stylish decor for the home, upcycled and repurposed vintage wares, and more.

Why am I posting this now? It's only July? Um, because...I'm busy at work- hence the no posting and no doing any new art lately- I'm affraid I might completely forget about the blog as I haven't been frequenting it lately and I would hate for people to miss out on such an awesome show. Not just because A Shade Better Than Stick Figures will be there, but because these crafters and artists and jewelry makers, etc. are crazy talented- and being that it's in September- you can stock up on Christmas gifts for all those people you care about in your life (trust me, I'll be posting reminders).

So, if I don't see you before- hopefully I'll see you September 4th, 2010 from 9am-6pm (well you don't have to be there the whole time, but I do...so yeah...hope to see you in passing!) Pass the word to all your friends. Handmade rocks! Come to Cowtown Indie Bazaar!!!!!!!!!

What I've been up to in that elusive free time

2010-06-21T09:10:00.006-05:00

So, while I haven't had an enormous amount of free time, the weekends do present themselves with enough for some knitting.

A blog that I follow around here: Rebecca Danger- led me to find some of the cutest patterns in her Etsy store. I've had these for way too long now, to not have casted on sooner. But I'm glad I got around to making them.

The first one I made was the orange and yellow striped creature on the right and her baby the yellow creature in the center. Daphne and Delilah. This one pattern alone was what caused me to search Rebecca Danger's Etsy page for the other patterns.

I of course made both of them wrong- because I didn't use the super easy, but at the time-not-known-to-me magic loop method. So I used DPN's instead...I sucked at the top closure. But at least they look related.

Daphne has a pocket that Delilah fits into, and it's oh so cute.

It took me about 2 weeks to get them both completed- but that's with minimal time to work on them both. I won't be using the DPN's for any other monsters, because the ladder effect was rediculous, and I thought I had moved past creating ladders with the DPN's (if you have no idea what any of that meant, I'm sorry...it's knitting. I'm a little crazy about my knitting)

Sammie The Sock Monster was of course the next choice to make. I have a friend who really likes socks, and as soon as I saw this pattern I had to make it for her. I'm thinking of making another pair of socks for Sammie, just because I don't like the roll at the top of the socks. I learned a new cast-on method and decided that they must be re-done. I learned and used the super easy-as-pie magic loop method of knitting, and was sad when the patterned called for DPNs for the arms and legs...magic loop is so much better!

That's all I've been working on (well minus a tattoo design). No it's not drawings, but I hope to get back to that soon. So I can have something festive to show you. Hope this tides you over until that time comes. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Red Weenie Dogs for the Win!!!

2010-06-16T13:04:00.002-05:00

Does this dog look like it's having fun, or what? It's all smiles! Although after having just stepped outside for a few minutes I realize this look could also be because of the heat. And it would be water splashing around it instead of grass blades. Does someone have a portable air conditioner that I can hang around my neck?

Anyway, I'm not sure what this dog's name is, I snagged it from Proxy's owner's facebook page. I don't think it's her dog, but one of her family members, maybe?

I like this dog because it's a red dapple weenie-dog. I used to have a short haired version of a dog like this- and it made me smile to see such a happy weenie dog sprawled out in the grass...mine was a bit too fiesty to ever enjoy the grass...although she might have enjoyed barking at anything and everything- I sure didn't, but she might have.

Ok, enough of the walk thru memory lane. I hope Shell is ok that I drew another picture from her cute supply of dog pics. I couldn't help myself- I may need a 12 step program to prevent the further drawings of people pictures without permission (hey, at least I personally know these people that I'm drawing their pictures for...I'm not stealing copyrighted images.)

This one is on 8.5" x 11" printer paper- as you can kind of see, it's askew/off center, I liked the placement of the dog in the original photo, so I kept it with the drawing. I used HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. I started this a few weeks ago when I had 10 seconds to spare at work...I finished it this morning while I had a pretty decent chunk of time to myself.

More drawings to come? We shall see...

Pelicans

2010-06-08T06:51:00.003-05:00

I finally caught a break and had a few minutes at work yesterday to complete this drawing for one of my co-workers. She has a thing for Pelicans and really wanted a drawing of them.
With the recent BP oil spill in the Gulf, I found it very fitting, sort of like a tribute to the Pelicans, since all I have been seeing on the news lately are oil covered birds. Makes me want to grab a big box full of bottles of Dawn hand soap and make a trip south to help out.

This is on 8.5" x 11" printer paper, using 4B, 2B, B, and HB pencils. I've been "working" on this for the last 3 weeks, but total time only took about 3 hours to complete.

Hopefully I'll have some more time today to work on a tattoo design I've been working on for over a month. It's really hard to only have a few hours after work to be creative, I'm really glad I got some free time during work hours yesterday.

update of nothingness

2010-05-21T13:33:00.003-05:00

Seriously, I'm still busy at work...so yeah. No drawings to show. When I do have free time, I'm working on a tattoo design for someone...and I'm knitting. Who wants to see knitting when it's 90 degrees outside? (I keep it cool at home so knitting feels right) I won't be displaying the tattoo design, so you won't even get to see what I've been working on.
But some day. There will be drawings again. I hope.

Happy Friday!

2010-05-10T14:56:00.002-05:00

Hey, remember when I used to draw and post pictures? Yeah, those were good times! Apparently I have work I have to do at work now...How dare they actually give me something to do that will take up a full 8 hours!!! Shocking! :P
So as of now, nothing to show- nothing for awhile guys, sorry. If I get un-exhausted after work, I will make sure to work on something and then update the blog...but as of right now, I can't see the light at the end of the tunnel, I'm swamped with work. But I'll make time if someone needs a drawing- just let me know ASBTSF@gmail.com
Just took 10 minutes out of my work day to let you know that...I'll pay for that tomorrow. :)

"Proxy"

2010-04-23T09:35:00.004-05:00

The owner of this dog does not realize I drew her dog...so I hope she's cool with me having done so.
This too was another dog drawing I had been working on for the Paw Paw's Pooch Pow Wow last weekend that I was rained out of.

The basics: 8.5" x 11" on printer paper (hey, the stuff is cheaper than art paper and smooth...I like it)...6B, 4B, 2B, B, HB pencils were used.

Normally I don't do the shading in the background...but I'm totally going to let you in on a little secret...I screwed this drawing up and there was no way to hide my mistake without shading (drawing too dark leads to none-erasable marks). In the original photo (which of course I don't have) there is a book shelf behind the weenie dogs head (I love weenie dogs!)...but I was working from a printed picture as I snagged the image from facebook (I know the owner of the photo, it's not like I'm doing harm here...it's just for my drawing fix). Well, the image printed a little dark and I thought that Proxy's ear (that's the dog's name) was up a little more than it really was...by the time I realized it was a bookcase, I had already shaded way too darkly for it to be completely erased, and I was so far into the drawing that I really didn't want to have to start over...so I improvised. Hope it looks ok. Hope Shell likes it (I may or may not be drawing another picture of Proxy or another picture of a long haired red weenie dog looking really cute in some grass...I'm just saying.)

Anyway, I think that wraps up my over do update here on the blog...now if only I could get over to the website and update that too...hum...
***update***: the website has been updated!!! And also, the owner of Proxy, Shell, loves the drawing! Hehehe!!!! It's a great Friday! Bring on the weekend!

"Mosley"

2010-04-23T09:30:00.003-05:00

One of my most favorite dogs on the planet! MOSLEY!!!

I don't know how, or why, but this dog is photogenically blessed. Any time I see pictures of this dog he looks happy, excited, and posed for the perfect picture. He's even greater in real life. Like a big muppet. His sister dog, Lola would agree- she thinks he's a big chew toy (drawings of Lola have not been created just yet, but there are a few in the works).

Mosley's awesome, I don't know what else to say...8.5" x 11" on printer paper, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B and 6B pencils were used.

This dog cracks me up...more drawings to follow...

"Abigail- Diva" and "Beau Bradley 2"

2010-04-23T08:58:00.004-05:00

More goodness for the folks over at FunkyFinds.com

Jessica had a really cute picture of Abby on her Facebook page that I couldn't help drawing.
I was actually going to use this drawing and all of the ones that I post after this today, for the show last weekend, that I got rained out of. I didn't even want to risk setting up due to the fact that all of my drawings are on paper- even though they are protected with clear bags, I didn't want to take a chance of any water damaging any of them...call me over protective.

This one will be shipped out this weekend, along with the next drawing:

Beau Bradley take 2! The show last weekend was at Paw Paw's Dog House in Arlington Texas. I'm really sorry that we didn't even get to set up there, maybe next year (if this is a yearly thing), I'll be able to set up. I love dogs.

About this Beau Bradley drawing- how can you resist a cute lab relaxing? I couldn't, so I had to draw him.

Both drawings were completed on 8.5" x 11" printer paper using H, HB, 2B, 4B and 6B pencils.

More drawings to come!

"Glaser Girls"

2010-04-23T08:41:00.002-05:00

My roommate Greg gave me a picture of his nieces to draw. His nieces are adorable!
This is them. (No I don't have the photo to compare the drawing to...I'm sort of failing at remembering to post the original photo, huh?)

Anyway, it's an 8.5"x 11" on white printer paper (isn't it always? Well not if I get my butt in gear and finish my latest creation- not from a photograph)

I used all of the pencils that I own for this one, 4H, 2H, H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B. I had a lot of fun drawing this one, and Greg said his family loved it. Woo Hoo!

More posts to follow...it's blog catch up day!

(P.S. those are not all of the pencils that I own, but they are the ones I carry with me all the time)

DFW Craft Shows

2010-04-14T11:26:00.002-05:00

Hey kids,
my friend Tania over at the DFW Craft Shows blog is launching new sponsorship on the blog as well as a give away!
Feel free to click on the links above to read all about it, as well as to find out how you can enter to win the give away. It's a free custom drawing from your photograph from yours truly :) So if you have always wanted a hand drawn portrait but never got around to contacting me, nows your chance to win a FREE drawing.
So go ahead, go now to the DFW Craft Shows Blog and find out all about the goodness that's going on and how you can go about winning the give away...GO! NOW!!!

Paw Paw's Pooch Pow Wow

2010-04-13T13:37:00.002-05:00

I've been drawing, just not posting them. I'm getting ready for this weekends art festival and dog adoption that A Shade Better Than Stick Figures will be setting up at on both Saturday April 17th and Sunday April 18th (weather permitting).

It's a doggie friendly event being held at Paw Paw's Dog House in Arlington Texas. There will be a bouncy house, a 50s themed costume contest (for the dogs! How cute is that?!), and over 30 independant vendors. Click here for more information on this weekends event at the Dog House. Click here for more information on Paw Paw's Dog House and what they are all about.

I've been drawing lots of dog pictures over the last few weeks, and have several more to go. I really do enjoy drawing animals...fur is so much fun to draw. Plus the dogs I'm drawing have such sweet faces. I'll be unveiling the new drawings this weekend at the show (not for sale, they are for people), and then updating the blog next week with the drawings. If you are interested in obtaining a one of a kind hand drawn portrait of your pet, please don't hesitate to contact me: ASBTSF@gmail.com if you are interested in learning more about A Shade Better Than Stick Figures, please visit the website. (It hasn't been updated in awhile...so please be patient while I find the time to do that)

Above I mentioned "weather permitting"...that's because I looked today and the weather says thunderstorms on Saturday and Sunday. I'm not excited about that. I do have a canopy to cover the booth, but am a little concerned with Texas "thunderstorms" because the wind likes to pick up...I may have to cover stuff if it starts blowing too hard, or raining too hard for that matter.

Hope to see all of you out there!

I WON I WON I WON!!!!!!

2010-04-07T13:21:00.002-05:00

I never win anything! (ok, that may not be the truth, but it's few and far between when I win anything)

My friend Tania created this awesome website for craft shows- so all the crafting community in the DFW area can know when an application is due, or when a show is, or if a deadline has passed. It's very awesome that she did this. And as luck would have it...I WON! (seriously this was luck, because she used a program to pick the winner). Anyway you can read more details on the win here.

If you are a crafter or artist and want to spread the word maybe you should chat with Ms. Tania over at The Curious Cake Shoppe/DFW craft Shows. She's got some opportunities to spread the word about your craft/art(like with ad space) and a little birdie told me that if you donate some items to the drawings that she holds on DFW Craft Shows, she'll feature your company/work when she announces the winner of your item(s)...so hey- exposure! She featured us when I won, and The Curious Cake Shoppe because that's where the prize was from...so it's a win win, even if you don't donate, you should follow and participate!!!! FREE STUFF TO WIN!!!

How can this day get any better?!?!

FunkyFindsFeature!!!

2010-04-02T14:35:00.002-05:00

Guess whose featured on the FunkyFinds.com blog today?

http://funkyfinds.blogspot.com/2010/04/shade-better-than-stick-figures.html

A Shade Better Than Stick Figures! Woo Hoo!!!!

Thanks FunkyFinds!!!!

"Sedona"

2010-04-01T19:23:00.002-05:00

A cute little girl that belongs to one of my friends from High school. I saw it on her facebook page and couldn't resist drawing her.

It's the usual 8.5" x 11" paper with HB, B, 2B, 4B and 6B pencils.
The hat was a little difficult and definitely doesn't match the photo all that well, but it's close. I hope the little girl's mom likes the drawing.

Don't forget to check out the last post about the fan page contest on facebook!

Contest on the fan page!!!

2010-04-01T16:19:00.002-05:00

No this isn't an April Fool's day joke. It just so happens to be the day that A Shade Better Than Stick Figures TM got 100 fans on facebook!!!
In honor of our first 100 fans (and still counting), we are going to be doing a contest on the fan page starting tomorrow and running thru the weekend. Details will be announced tomorrow morning on the fan page.
So if you aren't already a fan on facebook and you like contests, you can click on this link, or you can click on the handy facebook icon on the right side of the screen. Really it's not a contest, more of a give-away...but like I said, details will be on the fan page- so go quick! Become a fan before midnight on Sunday!!!

"Beau Bradley"

2010-03-29T19:23:00.002-05:00

I'm on a dog drawing kick at the moment.

This here is Beau Bradley- doesn't he look like the most comfortable dog in the world? Makes you want to be a dog, doesn't it?

This was done on 8.5" x 11" paper, using 4B, 6B, B, and HB pencils.

Hopefully (if work will allow), I'll have a few more dog drawings to share this week (although if today was any indication as to how the rest of the week will go, I won't have any time)

I know I said I would post original photos with the drawings, but I just didn't have time to get it all together today (like I said...work was busy).
Hope Jessica and Joe like the drawing...as it's for them (much like the last one, Abigail Raine)

The blog looks great, huh?

2010-03-29T07:50:00.002-05:00

Anyone notice anything different about the blog? hum? Only that it looks fantastic, right?
Yeah, that's because Joe from Funkyfinds.com was kind enough to help a girl out and fix my blog! He's awesome, and very quick! It's painless, I promise.
So if you are needing a blog rescue, you should really contact him. Click here for a price list and details for his services.
I'm over the moon with how my blog looks! Thanks Joe!!! You're the best! (He even blogged about my last drawing!)

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

About the Open Air Market tomorrow

2010-03-26T18:29:00.005-05:00

Due to unforeseen circumstances A Shade Better Than Stick Figures will be unable to set up at the Open Air Market in Grapevine TX at Cannon Elementary tomorrow. I'm sorry to all who planned on attending, hoping to see us. I encourage all of you to go and support the wonderful local craft and art community- I'm hoping to make an appearance at some point tomorrow to at least do a little shopping and to stop by and say hi to my pals Tania and Richard at The Curious Cake Shoppe. I hope that you all have fun on Saturday.
Stay tuned for more information on A Shade Better Than Stick Figures next show which will be April 17th and 18th. Details coming soon.
Have a great weekend everyone!

Surprise drawing

2010-03-26T12:19:00.003-05:00

This is a surprise drawing for the awesome Jessica of FunkyFinds.com

I had so much fun at that show, and being that it was my first- how that day went determined whether I would ever do another show again...You know what? I'm doing more. (One tomorrow for instance...Cannon Elementary 9am-3pm in Grapevine TX)

Thank you Jessica for making my first experience in the craft show circuit amazing!

1st Annual Cannon Elementary Open-Air Market This Saturday!!!

2010-03-25T10:52:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the late notice, but I really hope everyone can make it out- this weekend is supposed to be nice...

This Saturday A Shade Better Than Stick Figures, and our friends at The Curious Cake Shoppe will be setting up shops at the 1st Annual Open-Air market at Cannon Elementary:
1300 W. College
Grapevine, TX 76051

Lots of crafts and art will be found. Children's Clothing to hand made jewelry; home decor to fresh made grain foods; art work to diaper cakes (hehehe, see how I snuck that in there)...you'll have a lot for the eye to see. We are really looking forward to it, and hope to see you out there. Feel free to stop by and say hello! We'd love to say hi back!
The event will be open from 9am-3pm- ample time to check us out.

Stay tuned for more info on even more events that we will be at this year!

"Olivia"

2010-03-24T10:03:00.002-05:00

"Olivia" was done for my friend Casy. It was completed on 8.5" x 11" white inkjet printer paper using HB, B, 2B, and 4B pencils.
She wanted me to omit the hands holding the baby as well as the background (well, technically I always omit the background...so yeah.)

I was scared that Casy wouldn't like the drawing, but I received an email from her a few days ago letting me know that she did in fact like it. So it is now in route to being with Casy and Olivia in person. I hope it looks as great in person as it did on computer screen.

So you might notice...there's a photo displayed next to the drawing :O Oh my! Yeah, I realized after doing the funky Finds show that people really like to see the comparisons between drawing and photo...sooooo....yeah, I'm going to try really hard now to remember to post a photo with the drawing, so you can see the comparison and let me know of anything I might have missed while drawing it...you know, because that happens from time to time.

problems with website- please be patient

2010-03-22T19:59:00.004-05:00

***Update!!! Gonzo is a life saver and figured out my ftp in like 1 minute...so the website should be working...Thanks Gonzo!***

I hate MobileMe for Mac. I'm just going to put that out there. It's up for renewal, which is where I have my website from, and decided to start spitting out these horrific email messages saying that I needed to renew right now, RIGHT NOW, RIGHT NOW! So I unchecked automatic renewal as I'm going to migrate my site to a much cheaper, and more reliable web hosting service. But in doing so MobileMe decided that it was going to end my site hosting now. So my site is down. I apologize for any inconveniences that is causing anyone. If you have questions just email me: ASBTSF@gmail.com
I've supposedly got people that will help me update my ftp info to get my website up and running but iWeb is kind of like MobileMe, it's decided to take a giant crap now that I no longer want to pay for MobileMe...jerks. So yeah...as soon as I find someone who wants to design a website for kind of cheap, or in trade (for drawings), I will dump iWeb as well. But for now, it's iWeb, and hopefully new hosting...soon.
Just what I need after being sick all day...

Funky Finds Spring Fling 2010 (aka my first show)

2010-03-14T09:00:00.011-05:00

I had so much fun doing my first show!!!! Thank you to everyone who came out to the show! Your support is so so so very important and very appreciated! You guys are wonderful!

It was a great learning experience. And I have ideas for the next show (which I don't know exactly when that will be)

The first picture is the table I had set up with all of the original drawings. None of which sold, so I will be posting them for sale on my website a little later this week.

The second picture is the print stands (ignore the shirts hanging in the background, that's a different booth). Originally I had them on the floor, but they were way too low for an adult to look threw them, but kids would have been able to reach them (as well as the many many dogs that showed up). Anyway, I'll have to figure out something for prints at a later time.
I had plenty of prints (probably too many for one show), so I may also put them up for sale on my website later this week, or I may even open an etsy store specifically for my prints; but Funky Finds is a very real possibility for selling my prints thru their website- I'll let you know which way I go. There are plenty of animals, cars, the caterpillar and the pirate, as well as "Head Above Water". But you will see that at a later date.

Oh, I also have a new logo (which you can see from my awkwardly placed header on my blog- I'll fix that when I have some time). The logo also comes with my own personal mascot "amber"...I kind of love it, and not just because it's mine...

I didn't really know how to set everything up, but I did have a display side, so people could see what I can do, in case they wanted to order a drawing of their own, or for gifts or whatever. I got rid of a bunch of business cards and brochures, so hopefully that's a good sign.

Richard and Tania from The Curious Cake Shoppe are in the background over there- it was so awesome that we got to have a booth next to them, they were great! Such great company. A huge thanks to Richard for going to get us all lunch from Chipotle! That was awesome! (The food at the show wasn't the greatest in variety, but there was food there, just not anything we wanted.)

The last pic is a close up of the display items. Some of you may recognize drawings I have done for you in the past. Thank you again for letting me draw for you, these are just some of my favorites. Someone at the show asked me which one was my favorite, and you know what? I didn't have an answer. These drawings are like my kids. How can I pick my favorite? I've poured my heart and soul into each of these. The answer I gave was picking one and then instantly saying "well I like this one too, and the one over here I really like too- you know what? I don't have one favorite, I love them all".

Anyway, I think if I do another show I'll have walls and lower prices.

There were so many friendly and helpful people at the show. A huge thanks to Jessica from Funky finds for putting on this great show and getting so many creative people in one building. I didn't have a lot of time to walk around and look at things, but the few quick laps that I did make I saw so much great stuff. Oh yeah, and Gonzo entered the raffle, I think he bought 20 tickets or something, he won. 5 times! Granted it was all girly stuff, so he gave most of it to me. But yeah, he's my lucky charm.

Thank you again. The people I met at the Spring Fling were great, and wonderful, and the vendors were so creative. A great inspiration and a great motivator. I'll keep you posted on any upcoming shows that I might decide to take part in, and I hope to see even more of you at the next shows :)
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!

"Tattoo Leg"

2010-03-14T08:49:00.003-05:00

the original photograph for this was also taken at the 2009 Texas Thaw in Denton TX.
I don't know if I like this one too much. I thought it would have made a cool drawing, with some candid moment happening with a girl partially getting out of her car, and she just so happened to have a tattoo on her leg.
I used B, 2B, 4B, and 6B on white inkjet printer paper.

I'm still not sure if I like it, but...it's done.
Hope you guys are having a great weekend!

For Starters

2010-03-14T08:43:00.004-05:00

This is going to be a multi-part blog. I'm going to start with the stuff I did last week in a couple of posts.
This is from a photo that David took in 2009 at the Texas Thaw at the drag strip in Denton Texas.
It was freezing that day, so I'm glad this years was a lot warmer.
Anyway, this is an 8.5" x 11" on white inkjet printer paper.
I used HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B to complete this drawing.
It's been a little while since I did a car, so it was a little hard to get back into the swing of things, but I think overall it turned out pretty good.
What do you think?

Funky finds spring fling!!!!

2010-03-12T08:45:00.003-06:00

Don't forget tomorrow (Saturday the 13th) is the Funky Finds Spring Fling in Ft. Worth Texas!!!!

That's right, my first arts and crafts show- I have plenty of prints and a ton of original art work for sale...I also have plenty of business cards if you aren't ready to buy what I have on hand but might consider having me do a drawing for you at a later date. Also I have buttons for people who stop by my booth and say that you saw my blog :)

http://funkyfinds.us/springfling/2010/

I hope to see you all out there! Don't be shy, come say hi! I'm next to The Curious Cake Shoppe- we'll be in the almost dead center of the building...and Gonzo will be helping me, so you can meet him as well.

Woo Hoo!!!! (Ok, time for bed now)

Is it Saturday yet?

2010-03-09T14:37:00.002-06:00

There's less than a week to go...3.5 days left exactly before the Funky Finds Spring Fling, and while I feel like I have almost everything ready to go, I know I am totally going to forget something on the morning of the show...and this event is not close to my house. It's like 30 miles or more away. gonzo may make fun of me for making check lists, but let me tell you- I don't want to forget anything for this show!
Anyway. I'm reporting in today to let you know that I have new stuff to share with everyone, but I'm holding off until after Saturday and after the maddness.
Did you know this weekend is that whole "spring ahead" with the clocks thing? Seriously? I think I might cry. I heard it on the news this morning in my pre-corn flakes and banana's groggy mind- phase and thought I mis-understood them, but then they carried on a 10 minute discussion of not changing the clocks this time and that they would be fired because they would then be late to work- after the weatherman said they would be an hour early if they didn't partake in the changing of the clocks...I was not amused. So I'll be super tired come Monday...but I will have new stuff to share. Promise.
So please, if you are in Ft. Worth this Saturday between 9am and 3pm, you should really come and hang out at my booth...or one of the other 120 vendors that will be there (but seriously stop on by and let me know that you've heard of A Shade Better Than Stick Figures- I might give you a free button (I only have 35 of them though, so you know...show up early?)). It's at the Will Rogers Center in Ft. Worth...in the poultry barn- if that makes sense...here's the link again: http://funkyfinds.us/springfling/2010/ Are you ready for it to be Saturday yet? (a collective yes was just heard because everyone is sick of the promoting already...I promise- you may hear this one more time on Thursday afternoon or Friday and then just a recap of how it went...then no more, ok? ok.)

March is coming in like a lion!

2010-03-01T10:02:00.003-06:00

Does that saying even hold up in the state of Texas? I know it did in Wisconsin, but whatever. I'm really getting tired of this weather not being able to make up it's mind. This weekend was in the 60s here and today it's in the 40s and raining...so sick of this- my sinuses will thank you weather when you make up your mind (just please don't make up your mind to be 110 degrees with 100% humidity...that's all I ask).

I do want to apologize for the lack of blogging, or showing pictures recently. I don't know if I have any readers out there like me, who tend to wonder what could have possibly happened to the author of the blog when there hasn't been a post in over a week...or a month...or over the last few months. There's some blogs that I read that I personally know the author and know that they are usually busy- or just don't care to update every day or what not...and then there's other authors who I don't know personally who religiously updated daily and then dropped off the blogging-universe for a month and that makes me wonder what happened to them- if they are ok, or if they are ever coming back to type something again. My imagination is a little crazy sometimes.

Anyway. I haven't dropped off the blogging-universe. I've been getting everything together for the Funky Finds Spring Fling which is less than 2 weeks away. I have to be honest. I will be very thankful when this event is over. It's been way more involved than I think it should have been for getting ready for it. I hope that it goes well, and that I at least meet some cool people...maybe sell a drawing or two.
To destress from all the crazy, I've been knitting an afghan. I'm about 1/2 way done with the thing and can't wait for it to be completely done. All of my other knitting projects and drawing projects have taken a back seat to the afghan. When it's done I'll post pictures...but hopefully I'll get some drawings done before then so you can have something pretty or interesting to look at instead of words to read :)

**Update**- I spoke with Gonzo last night and he has never heard of the phrase "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb" or vice versa...apparently that's a Wisconsin thing. Sometimes I really miss that state.

300th post- and a baby drawing to boot!

2010-02-23T14:03:00.003-06:00

300 posts! Wow! I can't believe I have that many...crazy.

I don't have a whole lot to comment on this drawing...like, I have no idea whose kid this is, or how the person who gave me the photo is related to the baby...or how old the baby is...or any of the usual information people usually give me.
A co-worker of mine, asked how much I charge and before I even spit the reply out he handed me a picture of this adorably cute baby with mass amount of wrinkles and a cute old man face. Totally adorable. And a super fast draw, it only took a total of about 2.5 hours to complete.
I gave the drawing to my co-worker this morning and he didn't even look at it- just ran it to his truck and came back in to work- so I have NO IDEA if he even likes it or approves of it. Sometimes that's frustrating. I just want people to be happy with their drawings- that takes just a few small seconds of looking at the drawing and getting a first impression of it...if your first impression is you like it- then awesome! If your first impression is something is wrong- then there probably is something wrong...so let me know, so I can make it better.

Ah well, 300th post and it just so happens that I had a hand drawn portrait for ye fine folks. (yes I said "ye")
Thanks to everyone who has been reading the blog. Your peepers are much appreciated!!! Now go tell some more people to stop on by and read it :)

Pirate in color

2010-02-10T09:54:00.004-06:00

Since the last post was such a hit (sarcasm), I thought I would post this bad boy.

He's finally in color. I'm not sure how I feel about him. Extremely glad that he's somewhat completed. Still thinking of ways to tweek the image though.

I lost track of how long I had been working on him as I stopped and did other things because I was getting frustrated.

Seriously though. This time someone please leave a comment as to whether or not you like him or don't like him or have suggestions as to something I could change or a different color to use or something. I feel like the last one just sank in the water (no pun intended)- and I really wanted some feed back as all of this color stuff could end up as prints and I don't want to waste the money making them if no one likes it.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Thanks!

Head Above Water

2010-02-05T15:14:00.003-06:00

So this is what I've been working on today. Caused by the inspiration from yesterday. It looked way cooler as just a pencil sketch, but without any shadows it was hard to tell what was going on.

For those of you who still can't see it- it's a girl in the water...you can only see the top of her head and her hair. I know, it's a little difficult to see.

Let me know what you think, as I would like some constructive criticism to improve on my work in Photoshop.

I think I went a little overboard with the highlighted dots, they looked really cool on her face and hair, so I started adding them to the water and I think...well...I just over-did-it.

Again, any criticisms would be awesome.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!

inspiration

2010-02-04T13:32:00.003-06:00

Lately I have been doing everything I can to not do what I should be doing...awesome, huh? Yeah, well I just got an awesome visual slap across the face to wake myself up.
I've been painting the Pirate- although not at all this week. Why? I don't know...bored maybe? I'm just not feeling it. So instead of starting on a completely different drawing to paint (in Photoshop mind you, I have no patience for drying of paints...actually I do, I just don't have the space to do it in right now-so I make excuses)- I pick up a book; I knit (you know, on an afghan that isn't even 1/2 way done right now); I surf new apps for my iPhone; I play solitare...watch tv...work out...space out. WHY can't I just get motivated?!?
...I received an email from Kidrobot today and clicked on one of the images, just for fun (and to put off doing anything artistic...)- I hadn't ordered anything from them in a long time...but I wanted to see what I was missing out on. I surfed their site for a few minutes and found the new Sam Flores vinyl...which was obviously sold out because of it's awesomeness. So in the wake of being devistated that I missed out on yet another beautiful piece by him I google searched his name and found this: http://www.upperplayground.com/blog/sam_flores his blog.
Thus the visual slap in the face.
Awesome.
I want to paint like he does.
I want ideas that would be as awesome as his.
So what next? Well, the sketchbook is in my hand (the computer is at home, so that'll have to wait)...but art it is.
Thanks Sam Flores for the inspirational slap in the face, I needed that.

so what's new?

2010-01-27T11:00:00.002-06:00

So, it's almost been a week since the caterpillar in color post and I thought I would let you all know that I am now coloring the Pirate that I did the outline of back in December (the same day as the original caterpillar drawing) in Photoshop for your viewing pleasure. I'm kind of having fun and getting the hang of painting in photoshop (finally), so I'll probably start doing more of those this year (since I haven't really drawing any realistic drawings lately).
I started one on Monday- I drew the outline for it and scanned it in. I'm waiting to be done with the Pirate before I start on it, as I'm really looking forward to doing the other one and if I stear away from the pirate now, it'll never get done.
Good times people...good times!

Happy Wednesday!

Caterpillar in Technicolor! Ooooh Aaaahhh...

2010-01-21T15:51:00.002-06:00

WARNING: Don't smoke...it's bad for you, causes cancer, and makes your lungs feel bad...not to mention you stink...so...just don't smoke.

Oh yes, I finished it. I'm so excited I can hardly stand it! I've been working on this for 17+ hours this week just to finish up. I'm still not 100% satisfied with it, but hey, at least I don't hate it.

But I can't stress enough- don't smoke ok? Just because I drew him smoking doesn't mean it's cool...I mean look at him. All bloated and one eyed and one arm is pretty much rendered useless- just barely holding onto one of the hookah pipe pieces...I mean it's nuts. I even heard that shortly after the completion of this the caterpillar actually died from inhaling...true story. So don't smoke. (Did I mention that smoking makes you stink? If not I really mean to make that a solid point)

Alright. There he is...and a little birdie told me he might actually be up for print sales come March...keep checking the blog, the website, and you'll have to come see him in person at the Funky Finds Spring Fling in March...

the lost photos

2010-01-18T13:35:00.003-06:00

If you could see what I'm holding in my hand at this very moment you would know what the scarf looks like...but alas, I'm slightly not with it and took a picture of the scarf, with my phone, and put it in my knitbuddy app...I thought it was on my camera roll, but it's not...so I have no picture of the scarf to show you.

It's 2 shades of grey. I casted on 40 sts...then I knit every row. With the dark color I knited 30 rows, then switched to the lighter grey for 26 rows, then back to the dark grey for 30, etc. etc.

But I did manage to take a picture of the mittens with my phone and email it to myself since my phone doesn't like me to update blogger...

I knitted them a size Large in Mens. The pattern I found online, but it was from like 1950 something and photocopied and uploaded...and it was for using 2 needles instead of knitting in the round (I hate making mittens that have a seam)- so I worked from the 1950s pattern, but changed it up to fit my needs. If anyone is interested in that pattern (knitting in the round- mens large mittens) shoot me an email: ASBTSF@gmail.com, or leave a comment and I'll be happy to post the pattern for all to see.

I actually think I'm going to use this pattern to make mittens from now on...even for women with large hands, these were roomy mittens and super warm (wool...mmm...warmth). I know it looks like there is a giant ladder in the right mitten, but I assure you, it's just folded (it was in my backpack all day)...there is a ladder in the left one, and I think there was a very small one in the right one (palm side-not pictured)...I get so excited knitting with double pointed needles that I forget to check the tension when switching to the next needle...it's cool, they weren't that horrible, and the person they were for loved them.

Today I'm actually giving my hands a rest (and the knitting needles), so I've been working on coloring in my caterpillar in photoshop (which technically is only giving my left hand a rest).

On a side note, I really love wacom tablets (which I use for Photoshop and Sketchbook pro goodness), but a few weeks ago (pre surgery) I went to a camera store that was giving a demonstration on the Wacom Cintiq...I fell in love, and now it's really hard to want to draw with my wacom...when with the Cintiq you can draw directly on the screen, you can even tilt the screen, and rotate it, or set it in your lap like a sketchbook and just DRAW...OMG I'm in love with the Cintiq...maybe I'll win the lottery soon and buy myself one. I just couldn't get over how awesome it was...and it wasn't even so much the screen as it was the pressure sensitive pen. You control how dark your strokes are, it was amazing. I could see actually drawing a portrait in photoshop with that, instead of on paper- that's how amazing this thing was. Ah...man. One day I'll have one.

End of rant. Hope everyone who has today off is enjoying it; and those of us who have to work, I hope we are getting lots accomplished...

CHRISTMAS UPDATES WITH PICTURES!!!!

2010-01-13T13:57:00.010-06:00

I'm so excited that heading is all in Caps! HAHAHAHA! ok, sorry.
So first off, let me just say that I completely dropped the ball and forgot to take pictures of these really cool little knitted ornaments that I made from patterns. They were cute and quick to knit up, but it was so tiny that I only made 7 total to give out, because my hands would hurt too much after knitting them to make any more.

I know I have posted pictures of some of this stuff prior to now, but wanted to share them again because I'm so excited!!! (not really, I'm putting off working on a scarf that I'm pretty sure is causing me arthritis in my hands right now)

_______________________________________________

My brother's girlfriend, Blair, wanted me to make her a pair of "Bella" mittens after she saw mine in October (mine are pictured to the left)...I made her's in black, and once again forgot to take pictures...but they look an awful lot like these.

__________________________________

I'm fairly sure that I've posted this picture before, but I could be wrong...this was while I was in the middle of making knitted poop for all of my relatives...It ended up I only made 4...2 went to my parents and the other two went to Gonzo's sister and brother-in-law. I really wish I would have taken pictures of these because I wrapped them in toilet paper and sealed them with smiling poop stickers that I got from Zazzle.com...they were hilarious.

_____________________________________________

My awesome friend Tania, received this little guy. The Loch Ness Monster, because when I saw the pattern in a book I immediately thought of her (I don't know why exactly)- but she loved it, so that was a win. He was so easy to knit up that I'm thinking of making a second one for a different friend that would equally appreciate it.
Although my fingers would appreciate it if I never attempted it again (blisters from tight knitting!)

__________________________________________________

And now everyone can tilt their heads to the left (hehehe, sorry). I made bottle cap coasters for a bunch of people (some people still don't know they are receiving one yet)...my birthday present from a few people was a vase full of bottle caps- so I decided to give back. They were not all that easy to make, so I'm not sure that this will be a long lasting craft that I stick with (past the use of the bottle caps I currently have).

At the time of making these I was using a center punch (which killed my hand to use), wire, needle nosed pliers and foam to put on the bottom of the caps so they don't scratch anyones coffee tables. Cheap to make, but rough on the hands. I now have a Dremel tool, so it should be much easier. ____________________________________________________

Do not adjust your screens, this is extremely blurry, so let me describe it for you, huh?

I kept seeing these bottlecap magnets at craft shows, and found a "tutorial" online (I use the word tutorial loosely- it basically told what kind of glue to use and that was about it). I found the never-been-used bottle caps on Amazon.com then I cut up an old 2000 map/atlas with different places that I thought people would like (this one says "Austin" it's for Gonzo); and I used those 1/2 glass marbles that you find in the floral section of hobby stores- the clear ones that some people put in the bottom of vases- it give it this cool magnified look. And round magnets that are rated "6" in strength (they are STRONG!)

Some people received places on maps, other's received things pertaining to their personal businesses...other's just received used bottle caps with a magnet glued to the back...you know, whatever.
________________________________________________

And lastly. I still haven't met up with my friend to give her the present yet, but I figure she doesn't check out my blog too often so I'll post it anyway (if you read this May, you are spoiling your surprise)
I learned how to make Kanzashi flowers.
Last spring we had gone to a Dallas Etsy show and there was a girl selling Kanzashi flowers for your hair- I had never seen them before. May stopped and almost bought one but opted to buy something else at another booth and we never went back. I was dumb enough to not grab a business card- and then when I went to look up "folder fabric flowers" on Etsy I was bombarded with search results....all of them beautiful, but also extremely expensive...I was never able to find that particular person who was selling them at the show- so I opted to figure out how to make them myself. They were tricky and these are the only ones that I have done so far. Those aren't even finished in this picture. The dark blue and pink ones are finished now, complete with hair clips...but yeah.

I think I learned my lesson for next Christmas- attempting to make presents for everyone is a full time job- and I just don't have the time. I like making things for people all year long, not having to tell people "sorry I'm making something for Christmas I can't work on that right now" when it's July. So next year...probably not so much hand made stuff. Sorry!

"Cory and Eden"

2010-01-11T06:51:00.002-06:00

Finally!!!

Here is the drawing that I did for Holly's husband for Christmas. She let me know that he loved it and it is hanging in their house.

It's 8 1/2" x 11"; white paper; 2B, HB, and 4B pencils were used.

That was the only drawing I did for Christmas last year- so there isn't much else to post, except some other crafty things...I'll be taking pictures of them and posting them in the coming days. (I have to figure out how to do that from my phone...updates will happen more often that way).

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

recovering

2010-01-06T13:26:00.002-06:00

Hi kids! (and I mean that in an affectionate friendly way, not in a demeaning way) I'm back at work, which means my recovery from crazy freak show surgeries is on the way to being complete. However I'm on "no heavy lifting" restrictions, which means I can't haul my laptop to work and upload anything cool right now.
"But why won't you upload when you get home from work and can leave a laptop on the couch next to you and not lift it at all?" you ask?
well, because I'm pretty tired when I get home from work. I can manage a shower, and turning the tv on, and after that I'm pretty useless. Actually tonight after work I have to make a yarn store run and possibly pop in to any grocery store near by to pick up some V8 Splash Berry Blend. My friend Tania dropped it off to me while I was in the hospital and I tried it and fell in love with it. I was terrified that it was going to have a carrot/tomatoe-y taste to it like V8 anything else does (it's been a few years since I've tried V8, I'm not a fan of drinking my veggies)- and the Berry Blend tastes all fruit to me. It was delicious...I'm hoarding the last cup full right now, until I get another bottle of the stuff, then I'll probably down the hoarded cup and get another one right away!
Anyway. So yeah. I'm actually not sure when I'll post again. I promised someone emergency mittens (because it's supposed to be 13 degrees in North Texas on Saturday at some time), and a scarf...so I have to get on that asap...then I'll post.
I forgot to take pictures of most of the presents I gave away at Christmas time...so I'll just have to describe them for you at a later date...and then there's some that I did take pictures of, but I haven't seen everyone to give them their gifts yet so I can't post them yet...ahhh...am I making any sense?
Geez, surgery...I'm glad that's done.

about those pictures

2009-12-29T08:04:00.002-06:00

So, I know I said I would post up all of the goodies after Christmas...but after Christmas brought me to the ER with abdominal pains...they removed my galbladder because of 2 galstones, then the next day they decided that I also had appendicitis, sooo they took that out yesterday. I'm still at the hospital awaiting my walking papers, which will hopefully be today- but I don't have access to the photos at the moment, so bear with me while I get my stuff together and actually have a pain free minute to upload some images.

Thanks! Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Caterpillar

2009-12-18T15:36:00.004-06:00

Kind of small, sorry for that. I guess I will have to get this done in Photoshop or Sketchbook pro so you can see it clearer.

Anyway. I was thinking of things to draw today ("my list" was MIA), and I began rummaging around deviantart.com and found a picture that someone drew of their interpretation of Alice from Alice in Wonderland (of course it was a goth girl looking like she was about to jump out of a window...). That made me remember the first time I ever saw Alice in Wonderland- the Disney version. I was probably 3 or 4 and I remember being upset with the Walrus and the Carpenter...but I also remember the very first time I saw the cranky ol' caterpillar breathing his cloud of "Whoooo are Youuuu", and thinking it was the most beautiful character that I had ever seen. Keep in mind, I was 3 or 4, so all of the drug references and the fact that he was smoking meant nothing to me.
Of course I grew up and I'm not a huge fan of smoking, and I really like to exclude cigarettes and "tobacco" from my drawings, but you can't have the caterpillar without his hookah. I just like to think that he was bringing on death, thinking that was the way to turn into a butterfly....or how to get out of wonderland.
Anyway. I'm glad I finally had something to show you that's not a present for someone!
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Pirate

2009-12-18T15:25:00.002-06:00

PICTURES!!!! And not just one. After you read this one, stay tuned for the follow up. It's been a sketchy couple of days here in crazyland.

I actually decided to draw this pirate after reading Sarah's blog yesterday. She's one of the girls I used to work with at DNA Productions. She's extremely talented, and every time she posts something new on her blog it makes me want to draw something. I absolutely love her style and wish I could be 1/2 as creative as she is. I love all of her drawings!

Anyway, the pirate came about because of her post, but it's been on my list* of things to draw for awhile now.

(*My list= random words of objects, things, places that I want to draw...so in my free time I select something from this list to bring to life in a drawing...it's a little weird, but it keeps me from starring out the window for long periods of time wondering what to do with my sketchbook.)

Hopefully I'll be able to bring this into Photoshop or Sketchbook Pro and put some color in it. Who knows maybe I'll get this one, the next one and all of the others I've been meaning to work on ready in time for the Spring Fling in March, and I'll have prints available! That would kind of be awesome, huh?

I wish I could post some pics!!!!

2009-12-16T14:22:00.002-06:00

Craptastic! I want to post pictures of everything I have been working on...to give the readers some eye candy for a few seconds while they read a blog post...but dang it! Pretty much all of the gifts I'm giving this year for Christmas are hand made, and I don't know who all reads this that would see it before Christmas, thus ruining the surprises! GAH!
Plus I've been a little slow with drawing orders (I've had one this holiday season)...so there really aren't any drawings to post (well except for that one...)
But I can give hints...some people are getting coasters; some people are getting knitted ornaments; some are getting knitted Amigurumi (not those pictured specifically); some are getting Kanzashi; some...well...those will just have to wait and see.
I've been pretty good about taking pictures of everything, hopefully I'll remember to upload it all after 12/25.
Anyway...sorry for another BORING post without pictures...I promise that trend will stop soon. If I don't post anything before next week: I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!

18 with 10 years of experience

2009-12-04T14:02:00.002-06:00

28 years ago today, and artist was born.
Today that artist is doing nothing artsy at all :P I know I haven't posted any drawings of anything in awhile, which I appologize for. I'll get back to it soon. There was the whole broken thumb thing, the whole sicker than I don't know what thing, then Thanksgiving, and now the birthday...in a few more weeks it'll be Christmas.
I have been knitting up a storm lately. I'm working on some Christmas presents so I can't say much right at the moment (one of the people happens to read this blog and I don't want to spill the beans.) As soon as Christmas is over and presents have been delivered I promise this blog will be swamped with so many pictures you'll probably get bored from looking at them.
Right now I'm stuffing myself silly with the fruit from an edible arrangement Gonzo got for me. Hopefully I'll either knit on something later this afternoon, draw something, read, or start writing on a short story I started yesterday...we'll see.
Pancakes tonight for dinner! Ah yes, the 28 year old would like strawberry pancakes to celebrate another year please!

December 2nd

2009-12-02T08:40:00.003-06:00

It snowed this morning...in North Texas. It's only the 2nd of December. In the last 8 years that I have lived here, it has not snowed this early in the month of December.
And I have to say...I'm totally excited that I got to see big fluffy white snow flakes (which is completely out of the norm for me- I thought I had my fill of snow, being from WI and all).

It's a good day to stay home and draw. But alas, I live in the real world, where they make you work on days like this. I didn't bring anything with me to draw :(

Maybe tomorrow then, or the next day (as it's supposed to be more of the same the rest of the week- weather wise.)

....

2009-11-30T14:48:00.003-06:00

...I'm still excited about the Funky Finds Spring Fling- but what is it with Mondays???!!!

My "day" job is exhausting today- and quite frankly people need to tone it down with the yelling. I mean seriously. I know it's the time of year when people fall off their rocker with anger and hatred while telling everyone what a great time of year it is, but can you save some of the yelling for your family members the next time you see them? And how do people get to the age of 30 and not grasp the concept of being put on hold? Just because you don't want to hear a repeated message more than twice doesn't mean you can hit "0" and then proceed to scream at me. I just want to scream back "Get a clue genious!" Actually I'd like to throw in a whole slew of curse words, but I'm calming down a bit now. If it's not the phone yellers is the co-worker yellers who treat me like I'm 5. I would just like to say- yes I know what my job is- I do what I'm told, if you have a problem with that, perhaps you should find the person who told me to do whatever it is that has upset you and go yell at them. I'm done.

Someone hand me a giant sum of money, because I want to disappear for a very long period of time and just draw- away from...everyone for a bit. Lord knows I could use some awesome "away" time to get more drawings ready for the Funky Finds Spring Fling in March. Anyone decide that they'd like to visit my booth yet?

Funky Finds 2010

2009-11-30T08:50:00.002-06:00

http://funkyfinds.us/springfling/2010/

Exciting news!!!!! In March 2010 I will be attending (as a vendor) the Funky Finds Spring Fling in Ft. Worth, TX!!!!
You can follow the link above for more information about the event...and you can definitely keep tabs on any updates here on the blog, because I'm sure I'll be talking about it.
This will be my first ever event. I will be sharing a booth with my friend Tania and her wonderful business The Curious Cake Shoppe. So please stop by and see her wonderful daiper cakes and baby accessories while you are there!
I haven't 100% committed to what all I'm going to be selling yet. But I do know that I'll have some original drawings available, as well as prints of some of the more recent drawings I have done.
So mark your calendars! Saturday March 13, 2010!!!

"Rhonda and Kason"

2009-11-19T17:42:00.003-06:00

I did draw today! I must be feeling slightly better then, huh?

This is Rhonda and her new son Kason. I got to see them in person when I went to WI in October. Rhonda has/had no idea I was drawing this for her. I've drawn countless other portraits for her of her with her first born, Natalie. Of her husband Jon with Natalie, and several of Natalie and one of Natalie and her other son Gavin.
I saw this photo on her facebook page and had to draw it. It's such a sweet picture.
I just posted it to my fan page on facebook and tagged her and Jon in it, so it should only be a day or so before I hear back as to whether or not she likes it. Hopefully she does.

This actually isn't the only picture I drew today, but I can't reveal the other one until after Christmas...so you'll just have to wait. :) Happy Pre-Friday!

where's the drawings?

2009-11-19T09:29:00.002-06:00

I know, I said I would post drawings this week...the thumb is better (although it looks crooked). Gonzo came down with H1N1 last Thursday night and on Friday I was feeling none-to-well. I don't have H1N1, I have some rediculous virus that's been going around the DFW area alot lately. Sore throat, running/stuffy nose, cough, headache, body aches...just some not fun stuff. So I've been dealing with that the last few days and haven't had my head in the game to do any drawings. Sorry!!!

But I did download a cool app for my ipod called "Brushes" so I can do a little finger doodeling while I'm at work, or in bed or whatever. Whenever I figure out how to export it to photoshop I'll post some of them (I've done one...really bad one so far).

Anyway. That's all for now. Maybe I'll feel better this weekend and can get out at least one drawing, huh? Cool.

I have had comments!!!! AHHHHH!!!!

2009-11-11T07:55:00.003-06:00

This morning while checking my email I noticed for the 5th time this week (it's only Wednesday) that I've had an email notification telling me that someone posted a comment on this blog. Unfortunately they haven't been the kind of comments I want to see- spam. Or advertisments. That crap drives me insane.

But while searching thru my blog posts I noticed that I have had comments in the past on several of my posts that are from people I don't know, and it's not spam!!! How exciting! (truly that is exciting for me, I thought only friends and family read this thing- it's awesome to know that other people have written to me about something I posted) I would like to say that for the longest time I wasn't receiving notifications when people would comment, so after I would post a new blog I would never go back and look to see if people were commenting or not...then I fixed that and started receiving notifications...

So for everyone who has posted something and I never replied or said anything back or even commented on it- I'm so so sorry!!!! I appreciate you all taking the time to read the mindless drivel that I type on here. Although according to Lali when she commented on August 6th, 2008, she said "You write very well." which made me smile. Thank you!!!! And I'm so sorry for the late reply!
knitnthings actually replied to several of my posts on knitting and I feel like a complete moron for never checking those comments because I really thought no one cared about my knitting. On October 27, 2008 you replied to a post about the ugliest sock and told me not to be so hard on it. You were absolutely right. After I finished the second one they became one of my favorite pair of socks to wear...I still wear them to this day! Thanks for the vote of confidence in my knitting. Also you posted about giving the mittens that I was trying to give away at one point a good home. If I can remember which pair of mittens those were (I'm sure that I still have them in a ziplock baggie somewhere)- you are more than welcome to them. Leave me another comment if you still want them- I'll figure out where they are and we'll work things out on how to get them to you.
Also Beste wrote several times(no link to a website), one of which I saw, the other one hidden away in November 26, 2008 I did not see until this morning. You asked what medium I would be using on the Octopus sculpture I was going to do...HA! Yes. The Octopus sculpture that I never got around to making. Epic fail! But thanks for reminding me!!! Perhaps that will be on the list of things to get to in 2010. But to answer your question- I'll be using (probably), Sculpey clay- probably a neutral color (or the kind that comes in the green box), and after I'm done baking it, I'll paint it with acrylics. We'll see. I'm actually going to be knitting an octopus sometime soon (it'll get done before the clay one will)
If anyone else posted comments that I didn't reply to here (other than Titan, Taniamc, or Bryan, or my parents), please let me know and I'll answer your questions or reply to your awesome words that you left in a comment somewhere on this blog (Titan, Taniamc, Bryan and my parents- you all are welcome to post comments too, I'll reply to everyone I promise!)...unless of course you're one of the jerks that keep spamming my comments, or leaving crap about ulcers and nothing to do with this blog. For those of you that do that, well in my humble opinion- you all can just drop off the face of the earth for all I'm concerned (at least drop out of the internet- you don't have anything of interest to say here).
I promise to check my comments more! I'm so sorry!!! But thank you everyone who is looking and reading and commenting (even the ones reading and not commenting, I appreciate that you stop by!)

P.S. The thumb is better (still bruised), so I'll be getting some stuff up here asap!

The hazards of moving a freezer

2009-11-09T09:18:00.002-06:00

Dear people who are expecting drawings or knitted goods,

How have you been?

On Saturday I was helping Gonzo move a freezer into the house, and in the 10 short feet it took to unload it from the vehicle and attempt to get it in the house, I managed to smash my right hand into the corner of the door, thus shoving the freezer into the other side of my hand...right at the thumb.
In case you weren't aware- my right hand is my drawing hand...and without a thumb it's very difficult to knit.
My thumb is bruised, but I can move it slightly- not enough to hold a pencil though. I'm pretty sure it's not broken. But who knows what I really did. It hurts today.
While I have been unable to get your drawing done, I am now saddened to say that it may be awhile before you get a drawing, or a pair of knitted mittens, as the thumb hurts.
I will update you the minute the bruising has gone and the pain subsides. Hopefully by the end of the week.
Thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,
the thumb cripple

ah November....

2009-11-03T15:16:00.002-06:00

...as most November's go, you will probably start seeing a lot less posting from me, as I won't be able to show you very much of what I'm working on...being that it's all probably gifts and what nots, that can't be seen until they are opened- and I usually tend to forget to post pictures after a month of waiting- so the likelyhood that you'll see anything on here that I actually worked on for the holiday season is slim to none- but I'll work on that...make a list of stuff to post after December 25th.
Then it'll be like Christmas on the blog! Well for me it won't be, but for my loyal readers (all 2 of you- well one if you count my followers- I know there's more silently hiding, it's cool) it will be. :)
I am working on stuff, don't you worry. Between drawings that have been requested and other crafty things I'm working on to give to family and friends for Christmas I'll be busy.

Oh yeah, the November 1st deadline for requesting drawings has passed!!! OH NO!!!! Don't worry, if you requested something by that deadline- have no fears- it will totally be done and shipped by 12/24/09. If you didn't get your request in by the deadline, feel free to send me an email: ASBTSF@gmail.com and we can discuss how you can still go about obtaining a drawing by 12/24/09...just don't wait until 12/24 or 12/23 or even any day after 12/01 for that matter. (If you are requesting a drawing that has nothing to do with Christmas or a winter holiday- please disregard and send in your requests like normal.

That's all for now :)

Baby Dear

2009-11-02T08:57:00.003-06:00

I meant to post this on Friday night...and then on Saturday...and even on Sunday- but it was a very lazy weekend and I did not get onto a computer at all after 5pm on Friday.

Here's the baby dear I drew last Friday while at work.

Not much to say about it. I like the way dear look, and how graceful they can be- but having grown up in Wisconsin, I also know the horrible side of these suicidal creatures and their clumseyness around traffic. I wish they would be born with a gene in them to recognize a motorized vehicle as dangerous and to run away from it, instead of into it or in it's path.

Anyway, I completed this drawing using HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. Total drawing time was around 3 hours.

2 Seconds later

2009-10-30T08:36:00.004-05:00

"Close up Zebra"

Both this and the last post were drawn from photographs taken by my friend Tania, who just so happens to be an amazing photographer. She also is an amazing Diaper Cake maker.

I'll be drawing some more animals from her awesome photographs later today.

B, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils used in this drawing.

Hopefully I'll have some more overly hilarious animal drawings to show you later today or tomorrow.

Thanks for looking! Have a great weekend, and try not to scare too many children- I know it's tempting.

"Have a Nut"

2009-10-30T08:32:00.002-05:00

The title of this piece is purely for my dad to laugh.

I started it and finished it yesterday. I have a weird thing about squirrels. Although, drawing this one didn't entertain me nearly as much as I thought it would. But he does still make me laugh.

HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils were used.

I think I'll do a gallery sometime in the distant future...and have on display animals and vehicles...because lord knows I've drawn plenty...

wait for the next post...it'll be here in like 2 seconds.

Pistons & Paint- Red Rod

2009-10-29T08:36:00.003-05:00

I actually don't remember what year of Pistons and Paint this picture was taken at (Denton Texas). It was either 2008 or 2007. I honestly don't remember. But it was started and completed yesterday!
It was done with Hb, H, 2B, 4B, and a little 6B.
I know the wheels don't look round at the bottoms, but it was sitting on grass, so I tried to draw some of that in (although you really can't see it in this image...)
I've got a bunch of animal pictures raring to be drawn today.
I might have some people pictures to draw soon as well...some being requests (possibly- fingers crossed) and some being vacation pictures.
Plus there's hundreds of pictures that Gonzo took at the most recent "Them: The invasion" car show in Deep Ellum. Once I figure out which ones to draw, I'll start on those as well.
Anyway. Happy Halloween :P

I'm back!

2009-10-28T15:33:00.002-05:00

It's true, I'm back. I didn't do any drawing or knitting while on my trip. Shocker. I brought a backpack full of stuff to do, and didn't touch it. But I am drawing today, so hopefully by tomorrow I'll have a little something to show you.

Where did I go on vacation you ask? (because that's where I was- "vacation"- I don't know if I said that in any other posts or not) Wisconsin. Land of milk and cheese and the happiest cows on the planet- California can suck it- WI will always hold that title. (I'm a little competitive on that front since I'm from the great cheese state).
It was a wonderful visit. Catching up with old friends, old family friends that I haven't seen in years, and just getting to relax and remember what it's like to have no traffic to worry about. I spent some time on the family pig farm playing "queen of the pigs" and petting them all on the snout (you can't get the H1N1 flu from pigs- so everyone just calm down). I got to hang out with my brother and his girlfriend (who wants some Bella Mittens), and seeing some really great friends that I've known forever. I did miss seeing snow though. Apparently it had snowed in some parts of WI the week before we got there, and then it started snowing at my friend Heather's place about 2 hours after we left. But she sent pictures :)
Some of the old family friends I got to see and visit with, and some of my friends I haven't seen in years and haven't kept in touch with, all asked if I still draw. They also asked if I had anything showing in any galleries and I actually felt kind of ashamed that I don't. That's a dream of mine- to have either a.) my own gallery or b.) my own art work hanging in an art gallery.
Wisconsin was good times. I miss it dearly. I'm putting it back on my list of places I want to move to. I've got some really great friends there that I need to see more than once a year.

Drawings to show you tomorrow. It's good to be back on the blog :)

Knitted mittens

2009-10-14T10:53:00.004-05:00

Haven't been drawing a whole heck of a lot lately. After the catastrophe that was a black car with red touches that was supposed to be drawn in color (and turned out horribly horribly wrong), I haven't drawn anything since.

But I have been logging onto Craftster.org for some much needed creativity time. And I stumbled upon this awesome post. Which in turn made me run over to THIS website to get the pattern. Because we all know what a nut I am for Twilight. (Although I'm not one of those crazy people who have already bought tickets for opening weekend of New Moon...Not crazy really- just obsessed people who love the books.) The picture up there is how my version turned out. I used Red Hart yarn, because I had a stash of it in my yarn box (aka a 3 drawer contraption sitting in my closet so Gonzo doesn't notice how much yarn I actually have- that's not including the garbage bag full of yarn that's hiding at my parents house). I actually hate this yarn, it's not soft, but it'll keep me warm. I had to knit these up quick because Gonzo and I are heading up north soon and it's already snowing up there. Gah! Snow. Blah!

Anywho. If you are a fan on Facebook, I know I posted something a few months ago about having prints ready in September (man am I late on that deadline or what?), I finally got all of my supplies in for making prints- so as soon as they are ready (maybe by December), I'll post them here and on my website (and I'll update it on the fan page). Everything was on backorder that I needed to make them, so yeah. That's my excuse...and the mittens. :)

This is probably my last post for a week or so, so everyone have a great weekend, a great week and do something creative, will ya?

Work is slow

2009-10-09T15:42:00.002-05:00

So I made a snail...

I knitted it, without a pattern. I was on craftster yesterday and saw someone's avitar had a knitted or crocheted snail and thought it was cute. So I just said "what the heck, let's bust out the DPN's and make it!" Fairly easy. Only took about 5 hours.

If anyone is interested, I'll see about making a tutorial.

have a great weekend everyone!

Another day, another color pencil drawing

2009-10-06T11:31:00.002-05:00

Yes, I'm still itching...this time it's my forehead. (Thank you Prismacolor colored pencils)

I'm not posting a picture of it (the drawing). It's bad. It looks bad. It's a black car, with some spots that are red. Not only that, but the photo I was provided with is so dark that I had to take it into Photoshop and lighten it just to be able to see any sort of detail. I'm telling you, that didn't really help the case. it's a black car. Maybe I'm just unable to draw a black car? It's so dark. It just looks like a flat image that a second grader colored. Seriously. I would hate to have to tell this person that I can't draw their car, but I really don't think I can in color. (This is the third attempt at me trying to draw it) In fact, I don't think it would look any better drawn in pencil. The photo just isn't a good photo to use, maybe. The background is dark, there's not enough light illuminating the details, so everything just looks...flat.
I don't want to give up on it, but I seriously hate what I just drew. It looks bad! I'll post something when I have something decent to show you.

Back to scratching (it's spread to my palm now)

GMC in color

2009-10-02T09:29:00.003-05:00

I did the black and white counterpart to this in August (I think it was the last post for that month).
I don't know how I feel about it. Gonzo seemed to like it, but I'm still undecided. Gonzo actually took the original photograph at the "Them" car show in 2008. He recently met the guy the truck belongs to, who happened to see the black and white drawing and asked him to ask me if I would do it in color for him.
I have issues with color portraits. I'm not the greatest painter on the planet, so I don't do "portraits" using Acrylic, or Oils, or Tempra or any other kinds of paints. I opt for what's familiar to me- which is a pencil. Colored pencils are very much like regular pencils...but there are a few differences for me:
1. They bring out the grain in the paper more so than regular pencils- which I'm not a fan of- some people are- Thank goodness for you all. I just don't seem to be happy with anything I've done in color (unless it was on that awesome brown paper from last year- that I drew the sign, tractor, and farm scene on for my dad...that actually looked kind of cool.)
2. I'm slightly allergic to colored pencils. Within minutes of opening the box my throat starts to itch. If I don't touch them, that's as far as it goes. But the minute I pick up a colored pencil I start to itch, arms, legs, face, neck. I've even broken out into hives before, from using them. I don't know why, or what it is about them that makes me itch, but yeah...it happens.
3. I tried to do a portrait for someone in 2004, it was a color portrait, using colored pencils. They were not happy with the colors that I used- saying that the skin tones didn't match, the clothing color didn't match, etc, etc. I then asked her to go thru my colored pencils and find the correct matching color to use, and I would start over. She couldn't find any, and told me that I should look into making my own colored pencils if I was going to attempt to draw colored portraits. Crayola and Prismacolor I am not. But thanks for trying lady.
So I do the best I can, with what I have.

I've been asked several times in the last few years if I do color portraits...or I've just flat out been told that they are requesting a colored portrait, without even checking to see if I can do that. Just because one artist draws well in black and white, doesn't mean they can do the same thing in color. Nor will the finished product look like what you have pictured in your head.
I'm still weighing the options of doing color portraits. They are time consuming, and a literal pain for me (allergies to the art medium isn't a good thing). Also, what do I charge people for color drawings? (that's a rhetorical question) Then there are days (especially this year), when I just think of deleting this blog, deleting the website, and not offering to do portraits of any kind, and just quietly and secretly complete drawings here and there for myself and no one else. But that won't happen, at least not today. I like drawing. I like how color looks. I like the looks on people faces, or the emails I get when someone receives a drawing that I've done. That makes me happy.

Anyway, I'm rambling...and it's Friday. I've got things to do (art wise), so I'll leave you with this, about the picture above.
I had fun drawing it, itching all the while. It was challenging, and I managed to complete it in about 3 hours...which makes me think I may be getting a little better with the colors (it usually takes me days to complete a color drawing). I'll keep practicing, and when I can afford it, I might try some other colored pencils to see if the itching stops.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hello October!

2009-10-01T13:24:00.002-05:00

Yeah, October is here!

First thing's first here. You have exactly 1 month to request drawings for the 2009 holiday season (that is, if you are giving presents this year). "How's that?" you ask? Well, Christmas/the holiday season, is usually my busy time, what with all the drawings and what-not. What normally takes me a few hours to complete, will probably take days (not because I get lazy, but because of the demand)- in order for me to be able to get everything completed and shipped out by December 24th, they will need to be requested by November 1st. So, if you are thinking of getting that hard-to-shop-for relative/friend/co-worker/pet/etc., a drawing from a photograph this holiday season- the last day to request one will be on November 1st. Of course, if you aren't buying a Christmas/holiday present, but a birthday/anniversary present- then please, by all means ignore that deadline. If someone's birthday happens to fall on...oh I don't know...December 4th, and you want to have a drawing done for them, please allow the normal 2 weeks when requesting. I'll make sure to work you in.

next thing- I'll probably re-read this tomorrow and not understand anything. They are doing construction in my place of business a few feet away from my desk...so everything is loud, and the hammering...makes it hard to concentrate.

Also, because I'm awesome and just told you, that you have a month to request drawings, I'm also fair warning you that for a week in about 16 days, I will be slightly out of pocket. I will have limited access to email (ASBTSF@gmail.com in case you want to order something)- so if you don't get a response from me for a few days, please do not get discouraged- I will email you at the soonest possible moment I can.

I promise pictures of works in progress will be coming soon. I've got a few drawings in the works.

It's not a scarf...

2009-09-30T15:13:00.003-05:00

You read that right. This isn't a scarf. It's actually the very last piece of knitted goodness for the sweater I've been working on for the last 3 weeks. It's one of the sleeves.

So far (I still have to seam the thing), I have worked on this for 34 hours and 26 minutes (minus a few hours on several days that I forgot to hit "clock in" on my clock in app. on my iPod).

Whew! I will say that it did go by quickly, thanks in large part to the lull in actual work at my job. Now they can feel free to give me any projects they need to...because actual work would be slightly awesome.

Anyway. I don't actually know how to seam a sweater together. Whenever I have made animals (which was once), I just used regular thread to sew it together. I have no idea if that is right. If there are any knitters out there, who have several sweaters under their belts (not literally), then please feel free to leave me a comment, because I'm clueless here.

I did join Knittingdaily.com and they sent a tutorial the other day that had a seam done using a crochet hook. But the directions only showed how to do the stitch on one side of knitted goodness, not connecting two sides together, so I'm kind of lost.

Tomorrow, I'm going to draw again. It's the GMC truck that I already drew earlier this month, but the owner saw the picture and he wants it in color. I keep telling people "I don't draw in color", but they just don't listen. So we'll see how it turns out. Maybe I'll bypass the white paper this time and draw it on brown paper, color drawings always look so much better on that.

I leave you with one last look at the last sleeve of the sweater (the front, back, and other sleeve are in a giant ziplock baggie at home- waiting for their new sleeve-friend)

Blue Scarf

2009-09-29T16:34:00.002-05:00

please tell me your impressed with my awesome blurred photo taking capabilities!!! (sorry)

Anyway, this was me 1/2 way done with blocking the blue enterlac scarf (I probably totally spelled that wrong, but I have no reference right now) on Saturday.

There are no other photos of the scarf. Why you ask? Well it's a funny story. This was actually my first "real" time to "block" anything that I have knitted (unless you count me screwing around with the steamer when I first got it- and blocking swatches- which I don't count). See, this scarf, when I knitted it was all sorts of warm and cozy and soft and you just wanted an entire blanket just like it (well I did anyway). I thought that if I blocked it, some of the rows where I was stressed out at work and knitting, would gently relax and look like the rest of it. When I was done blocking...well let's just say that it's overly scratchy and not comfortable to look at. It actually reminds me of furniture really rich people buy just to say that they have it in their living room- but no one in their right mind would sit on it because they would need to go to the chiropractor immediately. But yeah. Blue scarf, sucks really bad right now. I've wadded it into a ball and it's sitting on my couch- I'm hoping upon hope that as long as it's not flat, in any capacity, that it will go back to its awesome softness pre-blocking stage :)

Did I die?

2009-09-24T16:46:00.002-05:00

No, I assure you, I haven't died. I'm in the middle of knitting a sweater, so that's what I've been working on- ALL week. I just now got the back finished, and began to knit the front. I should have that done by this weekend and I'll be able to start the sleeves.
But anyway. On a drawing note. I've been getting inspired lately to do more creativeness. I really would like to, one day, work in a creative environment- with other creative people and do artsy-fartsy things that make me happy. Yeah. I totally want to do that for a living :) Who wouldn't? But that means I have to start doing more creative things- like "fictional art"- as I like to call it (stuff from my brain, as opposed to things from photos).
Anyway, my friend Maynor keeps sending me awesome links to get me and her other creative friends inspired and hopefully create something amazing. So yeah. That being said, this sweater is eating into my time of drawing and being creative- but I swore to myself I would finish this and not just "set it aside" (because we all know what happens when I set something aside...it'll be 2 years from now when I find it and go "hum, maybe I should finish this"). It was Tuesday when I got the email, and I desperately want to open Photoshop and make something pretty (stupid sweater...) (actually it's a really pretty sweater, so far, even if I do say so myself...it's the "first real" sweater I've knitted...so I am excited about that)
Anyway. Long, none picture post to tell you nothing...absolutely nothing- other than to give you an excuse for why I haven't posted sooner.
This weekend is crafting crazy weekend at my house. The boyfriend is taking a class in metal fabrication, so I get the place to myself...time to block that rediculously long scarf and take pictures :) So yes, next week...pictures :) Until then, have a great weekend (I know it's Thursday)

"White Deer"

2009-09-18T09:20:00.002-05:00

I started and completed this beast yesterday. It's actually a white deer, which...drawing it on white paper, perhaps I could have tackled it differently...like- maybe just make the background all black, and then a few shadows here and there...but that's not how I roll.
I actually kind of half-assed this one. I was in the "Oh man! It's almost Friday and I haven't drawn anything this week!" state of mind, and decided to just go for it. So while I'm not 100% satisfied with it, I do like the smug look on his face, as well as the placement of the watermark- since his head is held high- like he's proud of "A Shade Better Than Stick Figures"...
Anyway, I'm in a goofy mood today, and don't really want to be at work, but would probably goof off if I was at home, and just watch hours of LA Ink on the DVR, instead of draw or knit or anything that I actually do during the day.
So yeah. Onward with this day!
Have a great weekend everyone!

Melanie's Kids

2009-09-14T08:34:00.002-05:00

These kids belong to a co-worker of mine. I started and completed this drawing last Friday. I used HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. Guess what size it is... :P

I spent this weekend spraying a fixative on all of the drawings that I have completed and haven't put up for sale yet. HA! What an intoxicating time that was. So I guess now, the only thing stopping me from putting them up for sale is...proper finishing touches...like mattes. And bags. And...prints...hum. Sounds like I have a plan for this week, huh?

Anyway. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

"Them- the invasion of an Orange truck"

2009-09-11T13:18:00.002-05:00

I also need to make note that the photo that I drew this from was taken from the 2008 "Them- the Invasion" car show in Deep Ellum, Dallas, TX. This truck was at the 2009 show, and there are more pictures of it that I may choose to draw from at a later date.

I completed this earlier this week (Wednesday I think- seriously, can't remember exactly- my brain is going). I used HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. It is an 8 1/2" x 11" on printer paper. (Perhaps I should just start not listing what size it is, unless it's anything other than an 8 1/2" x 11"...seriously, I feel like I'm just wasting typing space by saying it repeatedly.)

I like drawing older vehicles as opposed to the newer style cars. Newer cars just don't look right drawn out on paper. But if I have requests for them (which I do at the moment), I'll happily draw them, and just pretend that they are a 50's era car.

I just completed another drawing today, of a co-workers kids. I'll have to scan it and post it sometime this weekend, if time permits.
Hope everyone had a great short week (if you had Monday off, if not- then I hope it at least felt short).
Have a great weekend!

"I Taste Good"

2009-09-11T13:12:00.003-05:00

...so says the deer that's licking himself. And be fair warned all you vegans, hippies, and PETA supporters- I don't care if the title is offensive. Venison is delicious. Go blog about the offensiveness in your own space- don't comment here- as it will be deleted.

Now on to the details. I actually finished this guy last Friday I believe it was. Another photograph my friend Tania was so talented to take, and then so nice to let me draw! (Thanks Tania! You're awesome!) Although, having drawn this, I'm beginning to wonder if she is obsessed with animals who have their tongues hanging out...it's fine by me, gives me moments of hysterical laughter while drawing...so I'm good.

I think (if memory serves me correct)- I completed this using HB, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. I know it's 8 1/2" x 11" white printer paper. Sad that I can't remember a week ago, huh?

I'm workin' here!

2009-09-10T15:22:00.001-05:00

Seriously need to update this thing.
I'll have some pictures to you, hopefully by tomorrow. Because I have been busy!
I've done 2 drawings that need to be posted. 2 more on the way. I completed my crazy scarf, but I still need to block it and take pictures. I also knitted a capelet (I think that's how you spell it) It's like a shrug, only not...or a mini short-sleeved sweater, that really only keeps your shoulders warm...yeah, you'll have to see it to understand...also why I need to take pictures and update.
I've also completed 3 ornaments- hand-made, knitted ornaments. They are going to my lucky friends and family this christmas, along with the knitted poo. So if you're reading this and your a friend or family- You know what you're getting!!! :P
I promise- a "real" update will be on it's way soon!

Zebra

2009-09-03T09:15:00.002-05:00

I'm alternating between the pictures my friend Tania is letting me draw from her wonderful wild-life-drive-thru experience at Fossil Ridge, and the pictures Gonzo took at last years "THEM" car show. Yesterday I chose the Zebra- because it's wicked cool looking.

I have started 2 more animal drawings and 1 car drawing, but haven't gotten the motivation yet today to finish any of them. Maybe by this afternoon I'll get to work on them.

Anyway. The Zebra was done using H, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils- it's 8 1/2" x 11". If you would like any other details, shoot me an email: ASBTSF@gmail.com

Thanks for looking!

2 for 1- what a way to send out August!

2009-08-31T18:57:00.003-05:00

I drew 2 pictures today! Holy crap!!!

This here is "GMC". My boyfriend Gonzo took some pictures at a car show last year- the two portraits here are from his photo stash. "Them" car show in Deep Ellum (Dallas, TX). It's almost time for that car show again this year...maybe I'll see some more vehicles to draw (you know, to add to the 80- scratch that- 78 drawings I have left to draw). I used HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils on this one.

And the other one here is "Custom Rod".

I used B, 2B, 4b, and 6B pencils.

Both are 8 1/2" x 11", both were completed today :) 2 in a day, to round out August with 5 drawings. I can totally live with that.

And there goes August

2009-08-31T09:15:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's the last day of August already! I just checked my handy dandy moleskin weekly calendar where I write comments on the last week of the month- regarding how many drawings I completed...3. That's how many I completed this month. I'm at a loss for words. That is all my fault actually. With the knitting fever that I've some how caught from someone, and the reading books (what adult reads books? Psht!)...I've gone from doing 6 drawings a month to 3. Oh well. That's in the past. Seeing as it's the last day of August (and I knew this day was coming), this weekend I went thru all of the pictures that I've ear-marked over the last few years as "something to draw later"- and piled them together. Trust me, I won't get thru all 80 of them in September, but hopefully I'll knock out a good chunk.

BUT I'm totally ok with putting them on the back burner again if people would like some drawings done of their own. :) (here comes the shameless plug). The holiday season is coming. People do like art as gifts. Especially drawings of loved ones, cherished pets, a favorite car or plane or boat or house. Heck, even drawings of favorite relatives are a hit. You know the website, but here it is again: www.ashadebetterthanstickfigures.com and if you already know the drill, but were just waiting around until you found the perfect picture and you've found it- you can email me: ASBTSF@gmail.com to get your order in today. If none of that works for you- I'll leave you with this gem: Handmade gifts speak from your heart, about how thoughtful you are that you went to so much trouble to have a favorite photo turned into a one of a kind hand drawn portrait. You'll be the hit of the holiday season!!!

A salesman I am not. But I know some people do like drawings as gifts. I said it...now I can go about my day. Drawing. Like I should be.

You guys are great, hope you have a great last day of August.

That "Quiet" kid again

2009-08-27T20:47:00.002-05:00

This is the same kid from the previous post. Apparently I shouldn't have said anything about him being quiet...but the times that I've seen him he was quiet and didn't want to talk. The only time I saw him cry (and that was loud) was right after he took a spill. I stand by my original statement. :)

Anyway, I just wanted to get this post in before I call it a night (I'm sleepy). This drawing was completed using HB, B, 2B, 4B and 6B pencils on white ink jet printer paper (8 1/2" x 11")

Good night everybody! (Yeah for Pre-Fridays!!!)

"Nathan"

2009-08-21T09:18:00.003-05:00

It's Friday! And I've got a drawing completed!

I finished it yesterday. I actually know this kid. He's quiet, but hilarious. He makes some of the best faces- very serious faces that make him look like a grown adult. It makes me giggle.

Anyway. It's an 8 1/2" x 11" on white printer paper. I used HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B pencils. While I think overall the drawing looks good...my favorite part is the soccer ball.

Ah well. Hopefully this will be a craft-filled weekend for myself. I've got some more knitted poo to finish up- and some other goodies to fill Christmas stockings with.

Hope everyone had a great week and hopefully you'll all have a great weekend.

Take care!

draw something and be set free!

2009-08-19T08:33:00.003-05:00

My oh my, how I love to draw oddities. A giraffe sticking his tongue out...does it get any odder?

Thank you Tania for sending me this awesome picture to draw. She heard I didn't have anything to draw and decided to help me out by sending the greatest photo ever taken on a drive-thru Texas safari. Holy crap! Thank you Tania! You rock!

I found that while I was drawing this, I was the most calm and collected that I've been in the last few weeks. I was so happy and content drawing this guy. It was awesome. I really need to get back to drawing at least 2 pictures a week, whether I'm getting paid for them or not- it's good for my soul.

More pictures to come as they are completed!

Thanks for looking!