Silent Orchid - Quietly crafting my own little world.

Switching to Tumbler

2011-11-28T23:39:00.002-05:00

Hello there.
I know I never update this blog. I'm sorry. I've been distracted by something shiny and new! Tumbler is the kind of blog I've been wishing for since I started posting on livejournal in high school. Not only can I write my own blog posts (and post my own pictures, links, videos, etc.) but I can also re-post things from other blogs. Instead of simply seeing what I'm doing, you can also see what is inspiring me and things I find interesting, and I think my personality is going to come through much easier than it does on a simple blog.

So this is my last post here on blogger. You can now find me at http://silentorchidstudio.tumblr.com/

Hope to see you all on Tumber!

New York City trip!

2011-10-11T13:28:00.003-04:00

Next week I’ll be going to New York City! My boyfriend's movie, Caprice, will be screening next Tuesday and Wednesday night at The House of Yes in Brooklyn.

It will be my first trip to the city, and I was wondering if you lovely people had any suggestions for things to see and do. I’ll only have two days there (Tuesday the 18th and Wednesday the 19th) and I’m on a budget.

I'll probably be staying in Queens. I’d like to visit the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. They have a Jim Henson exhibit right now that I really want to see. Any other places near there that I should go? Restaurants, shops, or other museums?

I’m already planning on stopping by Obscura and My Plastic Heart (on the Lower East Side) so if there's anything else near there that I shouldn’t miss, let me know.

And of course I’d love to see other parts of the city, too. It’s such a big place and I have so little time!

Also, are there any places or neighborhoods that I should avoid completely?

Gallery piece!

2011-06-21T13:27:00.005-04:00

I know...I'm a bad blogger. Honestly, I started a tumblr page and I'm kind of obsessed with that right now. I've been posting/reblogging lots of stuff on there lately.

My month off of commissions is going pretty well. I'm getting some work done on my own pieces. First, I was accepted into a gallery show! It's a Kaiju Monster themed show. I made a monster attacking a city! All in plush, of course.

The show is at Cade Gallery in Phoenix, Arizona. I starts July 1st and runs all month.

Other than that, I've been making a bunch of little things. I'm trying to get a lot of plushes and dolls finished before I start taking pictures. Instead of etsy/blog style quick pictures, like I usually take, I want to do something more professional. I'd like to make postcards, buttons, and prints of the pictures. I may even make some backdrops or scenes...we'll see.

First of June

2011-06-01T17:49:00.005-04:00

I can't believe it's June already. This year has flown by. I'm taking this month off from commissions and making things for other people to focus on my own work and my business.

Since it's the first of the month, I did what I always do on the first. I sit down and do business things! I've gotten into the habit of using this day (or at lehttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifast part of it) to make sure finances and such are in order. First, I figure out my income and expenses for the previous month. After that, I fill out my state sales tax form and pay my Etsy bill. I like to get these things done and not have to worry about them for the rest of the month.

Today I also started getting ready for this weekend. Justin and I are going down to Charlotte for HeroesCon! Yay, a whole weekend of comic books and geeky fun!

I'm not sure if we'll have internet access at the hotel. If we do, I'll be sure to post about the trip. If we don't, I'll be posting from my phone to twitter.

Art show!

2011-05-22T19:57:00.003-04:00

Exciting news! I've been accepted into the Monsters kaiju art show at Cade Gallery in Phoenix, AZ. I'm planning something really special...stay tuned for updates and pictures.

Been a long time

2011-04-28T23:53:00.003-04:00

I know...it's been a long time since I've posted anything. The last few months (since the Christmas season, actually...) have been very busy. I've been working nonstop on commissioned pieces and I haven't had any time to work on my own designs.

I love making things for people, but quite honestly, I'm starting to feel burned out by this. That's why I've decided to take the whole month of June off. I'm going to use that month to regroup and put my focus back onto my art and my line of dolls and plushes. I'm going to try and make a new piece (a doll, plush, or art piece) every day. I'll also be restructuring my prices, so if you're interested in anything in my shop, now is the time to buy!

I'm going to try and blog (or at least tweet!) every day of June. I'll be posting progress pictures of my work, what's going on with the business side of my shop, and what inspires me. Hopefully by the end of the month my business and shop will be back in order and I'll have a blog full of resources for other small businesses. Let me know if there's anything you'd like me to post about.

And if you need a custom plush, please let me know now so I can have it finished by the end of May. Or you can wait until July, when I'll start taking new orders.

Commission/custom order info

2010-10-30T13:54:00.002-04:00

Commissions for custom plush toys and dolls are once again open. If you have an original character (or a TV, movie, or comic character) that you would like me to make as a plush, please feel free to send me an email at silent-orchid@hotmail.com

Reference pictures are very helpful. Please send them along with your request (links to pictures are fine.)

---Prices---
Prices on all custom plushes are based on size and complexity of the character. The base prices below are for a for a standard plush made from felt. For a more detailed, complex character and any extras (different fabrics, yarn hair, removable clothing, etc.) the price will be higher.

Under 6 inches - $30
6 to 10 inches - $50
11 to 15 inches - $70
16 to 20 inches - $90
21 to 25 inches - $110
If you would like a plush that is larger than 25 inches tall, please send me a note and we can discuss the price.

All prices are in US dollars and do not include shipping. Please let me know your zip code (or country if you are not in the US) and I'll figure out the shipping cost.
If you need your order in less than three weeks, there will be a rush fee of 20% added to the cost of the plush (before shipping.)

I prefer to take payments online (PayPal and credit cards.) I also accept money orders (and if you are in the US, personal checks.) If your order is larger I do not mind being paid in installments, but I will need to be paid in full before I ship your order.

Refunds cannot be issued for custom orders.

Generally, I do not give discounts for multiple items purchased together. I do accept wholesale orders from shops, boutiques, and artists who order original character plushes (to be resold at conventions, etc.)

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When we agree on a design and price I will send you an invoice though PayPal (or my address if you are sending payments though the mail.) I can only begin working on your plush when I have received your payment.

It typically takes me between two and four weeks to make a plush, depending on how detailed the design is. I will send updates on the progress as I make it.

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If you have any questions, please leave a comment or email me at silent-orchid@hotmail.com

All ten year old girls have a crush on Tim Curry...

2010-10-27T11:54:00.002-04:00

My sister and I have a Halloween tradition. Every year we watch our favorite Halloween movie. Not a horror film, not It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown...no, the best Halloween movie ever is The Worst Witch.

It was made for TV in 1986 and stars Fairuza Balk as Mildred Hubble (her first role as a witch, long before she was in The Craft.) It also stars Charlotte Rae in dual roles as the school's headmistress AND her evil twin sister, Tim Curry as The Grand Wizard (who is swooned over by every female in the movie) and Diana Rigg as Miss Hardbroom (the not so nice potions teacher who doesn't like Mildred.)

It's a crazy movie, full of songs, goofy 80s special effects, and just plain wacky situations. In the middle of the movie Tim Curry gets his own music video!

Miss Cackle's "evil" twin sister and her coven of goofy witches are dressed like a five year old's idea of a "bad witch." They also have a song...

It really has to be seen to be appreciated. Or maybe you have to be a child of the 80s to love it as much as I do...you can see for yourself. Someone has kindly posted the whole movie on youtube.

Back online

2010-10-26T14:52:00.004-04:00

A few of weeks ago my old computer (which I'd had for at least six years without upgrading) stopped connecting to the internet. Oh, no! What was I to do? My dear boyfriend let me use his for a while, but it was hard not being able to log on whenever I needed to. I've realized how very much my life revolves around connection with people through the net. Not a bad thing...I like having friends and customers all over the world :)

Today I finally bought a new laptop for myself! Nothing fancy, but it has lots more memory than my old one. It also has a webcam, so you may see some youtube videos from me soon (not quite sure what they'll be about yet...maybe plush making tutorials or other artsy things.)

Now that my web life is back to normal, I'll be posting more to my sites (especially Etsy and twitter) and trying to blog more. What would you like to see here? Process pictures? Tutorials? Design inspirations/color board posts? Let me know :)

I'm working on some new dolls (monsters, circus freaks, and fairy tale characters.) I'm also taking holiday orders now! There's less than two months until Christmas, and I need to get custom orders by the first week in December. I'll make a longer post in a day or two, with all of the details.

Halloween plushes

2010-10-11T01:12:00.002-04:00

I just posted the first few of my Halloween plushes! Nosferatu, London After Midnight vampire, and zombie Poe. Lots more to come over the next week or so!

Doll and plush commissions are open

2010-09-05T00:27:00.002-04:00

I just reopened my commissions. If you'd like to order a custom made plush toy or doll, here is all of my commission info: http://silentorchid.deviantart.com/journal/13694803/

And if you're thinking of ordering something as a Christmas gift, you should order early. (I know it isn't even fall yet, but my holiday commission list fills up fast.)

Monsterfest 2010!

2010-08-31T13:11:00.003-04:00

In just over a month I'll be at Monsterfest! It's a local horror con that kicks off the Halloween season. This year it will be Saturday October 2, from 9am to 5pm at Chesapeake Central Library. Lots of vendors, artists, writers, horror hosts, and movie makers, as well as panels, films and a costume contest.

I'll be there selling my horror themed goodies. If you have any suggestions for characters, monsters, or Halloween things you'd like to see in plush form, let me know. Anything I don't sell at the con will for sale in my Etsy shop later that week.

And in other news...my commissions will be open again later this week, but on a limited basis. I'll post an official update, with all of the details, soon.

Shop update

2010-07-30T18:17:00.002-04:00

I added a bunch of new dolls and plushes to my etsy shop today, including some circus freaks, urban legends, and a serial killer!

New home

2010-07-11T12:15:00.003-04:00

So, I moved yesterday. I love my new apartment! It's tiny, but very cute and the perfect size for me and Justin. It's in the middle of Ghent, the "artsy" neighborhood in Norfolk. I'm around the corner from The Naro (single screen, arthouse theater,) lots of restaurants, shops, and galleries. Being able to walk down the street to eat or go shopping is going to be so nice! Especially after spending my whole life in the suburbs, where you need to drive to go anywhere.

I'll post some pictures when I get everything put away and organized.
Also, I'll be updating my Etsy shop soon and re-opening commissions. Stay tuned for updates!

stuffing

2010-06-04T16:54:00.005-04:00

Oh, my...does anyone know where I can get inexpensive polyester stuffing for my plushes? I was buying the big boxes of Morning Glory, but I found out today that Walmart no longer carries it. It has a really nice feel (not too smooth or plastic feeling) and was only $10 for 5 pounds.

I've been searching, but I can't find anything. I know I can order some brands online, but with shipping they will be very expensive. Does anyone know if Hancock or Joann Fabric (or some other fabric or craft store) carry stuffing in bulk? My local Joann used to have boxes of poly-fil, but I think they stopped carrying it.

What is your favorite brand? How much do you typically pay, and what size package can you get it in? Any help is greatly appreciated!

Commissions are open

2010-05-09T13:54:00.002-04:00

My plush commissions list is once again open. If you are interested in a custom made plush or doll, please feel free to contact me.

You can find all of my commission information (prices, etc...) here: http://silentorchid.deviantart.com/journal/13694803/

Moving!

2010-05-02T01:01:00.001-04:00

Last week Justin and I did a little test run of living together. I'm very happy to say that it went really well, and I'll be moving in with him in a couple of months. It was a really nice week. I got to cook (nothing fancy, but it was tasty!) and I set up a little sewing area (and found out that I can actually work on art projects while my cute boyfriend is in the room.) I love that the apartment is in Ghent (the "hip/artsy" neighborhood in Norfolk.) We're only a couple of blocks away from...well, everything. Great food, an awesome old movie theater (and their video store,) and lots of shops...basically everything I need (except for a fabric store...but I have to drive there anyway, so it's not a problem.)

Now comes the hard part...packing up my stuff and figuring out what I don't need to bring with me. I'm living at my parent's house now, and I have a room full of STUFF. The apartment is small (and only has one closet!) so I really need to let go of a lot. I've already started sorting through my clothes, and have a bunch of stuff to send to the thrift store. There's a bunch of junk in my closet but it should be easy to get rid of, since it really is junk.

Going through my art and craft supplies is next. That might be the hardest to get rid of. I'm kind of an art supply pack rat. I've been an artist/crafter my whole life, and I tend to hang on to supplies (even if I don't have a project in mind.) My fabric stash is a bit out of hand, and I have boxes full of collage papers...ugh! I can't get rid of it...what if I need it? ;)

I'm really excited!

Things to come

2010-04-19T14:15:00.003-04:00

I've been a bad blogger lately. I've been really busy with commission work and some personal projects and I haven't been posting as much as I'd like.

I'll be reopening my plush commissions the first week in May. I'll post a link to my updated info on May 1 (including some new rules, and updated prices.)

I'm also working on some new plushes and dolls for my Etsy shop, and I'll be posting those throughout May.

After that, I'm going to be working on some new creations for FantaSci, a local scifi convention. I'll be sharing a table with Justin, who will be selling his new pulp novel, The Red Knight.

After that...well, I'm not sure just yet. I'll keep you all updated.

...
On a personal note, Justin and I have been talking about moving in together. It's kind of a scary, grown-up thing for me. I've never lived with anyone before (other than my parents.) We're going to do a trial run next week...just to make sure we can stand seeing each other every day :)

I may blog about it all week. Or at least tweet.

Lovely birthday

2010-04-02T10:11:00.005-04:00

Wednesday was my birthday, and it was a lovely day! I spent the whole day with my boyfriend, Justin, who spoiled me rotten :) We had pancakes for breakfast, went to pick up new comic books, and then he took me shopping at Target and bought me a cute little skirt (with pockets!) and a couple of tops to match. After that we sat around Elliot's (local coffee shop) and read our new comics and enjoyed the lovely weather. Later, we got all dressed up and when out for a fancy dinner.

We went back to my house to watch a movie (Lair of the White Worm) and I checked my email to find a wonderful surprise. Evelyn Evelyn tour dates were announced, and they are going to be in DC! It's not as close as I would have liked, but only a few hours away. And I'm a bit obsessed with all things Amanda Palmer, so I bought tickets right away.

It was a really good day :)

New doll

2010-03-29T13:44:00.002-04:00

I posted a bunch of items in my Etsy shop this weekend, including three new designs.

London After Midnight vampire

Vampira

Zombie Poe (with tiny raven)

I'm working on some new plush designs (circus freaks, folklore creatures, and robots) so check back soon for more updates.

Commissions and featured!

2010-03-17T12:20:00.002-04:00

Oy, it's been a busy month. I'm sorry for not posting and updating you all of what's going on, but I just haven't had much to write about. I've been swamped with commissions (mostly remakes of things I've done previously.) I did get to make a cute set of little b-movie monsters!

Today my Etsy shop was featured on the Celebrate Odd Etsy blog!

In other news...I really need time to make new things for my shop, so I may be taking some time off from commissions next month. I'm also going to be updating (probably raising) by commission prices, so now is the time to order! I'll post an update soon.

Until then, I hope you're all having a fun Saint Patrick's Day! Be safe, and don't drink too many green beverages :)

Happy Valentines's Day!

2010-02-14T18:21:00.001-05:00

I hope you are all having a lovely day.

Justin and I had a wonderful pre-Valentine's dinner last night. Even though it was freezing we dressed up all fancy, because we hardly ever get to. We went to the Macaroni Grill, which I'd never been to before. It was really fun! They have fantastic food...I got chicken cannelloni and had tiramisu for desert!

They have paper table covers and give you crayons, which was really fun :) We drew pictures of each other (how romantic!)

His drawing of me

My drawing of him (isn't he cute?)

Valentine cards

2010-01-29T18:32:00.002-05:00

New in my Etsy shop, Valentine cards featuring my dark romance art. Three different images available (prints also up in the shop.)

Also, I just got my dolls back from Stuffed Magazine, and they'll be up in the shop sometime this weekend.

Fishnets, feathers, and rhinestones

2010-01-16T00:44:00.005-05:00

A couple of days ago Justin and I rented A Wink and a Smile, a documentary about modern burlesque dancers. I loved it! I've always had a fascination with burlesque and vaudeville (the costumes, the cute routines...) but now I think I love it even more.

In the film, ten everyday women take a burlesque class. I had no idea such a thing existed! Now I'm frantically looking all over, trying to find a local class (or at least somewhere to see a show...) but with no luck. Why must everything awesome be so far away?

I wonder...what kind of burlesque dancer would I be? Probably a silly one, as I have no coordination. But I would have a fabulous costume! Something flapper inspired...with lots of beads and feather!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T12:51:00.002-05:00

A bit late, but I'd like to wish all of you a happy new year!

2009 was a pretty good year for me. I started my Etsy shop in January, and I think it's going pretty well so far. I read a lot of good books and comic, saw some awesome movies, and even went to a couple of plays. I'm feeling more independent, and more like an adult, than I ever have. And of course, I got to spend the year with Justin. He's my best friend, my partner in crime, and the best boyfriend a girl could ever want :)

This year has started out well. The winter issue of Stuffed Magazine is out now (with two of my dolls in it!) I finally bought a drawing table for myself, so I don't have to work on my bedroom floor anymore.

I don't like the idea of "resolutions." I prefer to set goals, and make lists, of things I want to do. Here are some of the things I want to do this year...

*Draw, paint, and make lots of art.
*Start drawing the "Caprice" comic book.
*Make more of my own characters and designs into plushes. Take breaks from doing commissions to focus on my own work.
*Learn to play the ukulele!
*Update my wardrobe. Make more of my own clothes.
*Use the fabric (and other craft supplies) I already have before buying more.
*Organize my room, get rid of things I don't need. Stop hanging on to junk that I might use "some day."
*And of course, blog more! I really need to write here more often :)

I think that's a pretty good start. Happy new year!

Stuffed Magazine

2009-12-22T13:33:00.002-05:00

You may remember a few months ago, I talked about submitting two of my plush dolls to Stuffed Magazine. Well, they were accepted and the issue hits newsstands on January 1!

I'm not great at talking about myself, so Justin kindly did a video talking about the magazine.

Christmas orders

2009-12-07T01:17:00.002-05:00

Christmas is coming fast! If you'd like to order something for Christmas from my Etsy shop, you'll need to do so soon.
In the US, the last day to order for Christmas delivery is December 20. Outside of the states, you'll need to order by December 13.

2009-11-25T19:25:00.004-05:00

I completely forgot to post pictures from last week's Zobmiocalypse. I made a severed head cake! It was my first time working with fondant, and I think it turned out rather well.

I also made some little red velvet cupcakes, with creamcheese frosting and little gummy brains! (mmm...brraainsss!)

Hope you all have a very happy Thanksgiving!

The Real Manos interviews Silent Orchid

2009-11-18T00:14:00.003-05:00

Over on the YouTube, I was interviewed by the wonderful Real Manos (...aka, my boyfriend Justin!) We talked about my etsy shop, and the custom plushes that I make. Have a look, won't you?

Christmas commissions

2009-11-14T19:34:00.004-05:00

I'm currently taking orders for custom made plushes and dolls. If you would like the commission as a Christmas gift, please order before December 6. After that I cannot guarantee that it will be finished and mailed in time for Christmas.

You can find all of my commission information here: http://silentorchid.deviantart.com/journal/13694803/

I'll also be adding new items to my etsy shop all holiday season! http://silentorchidstudio.etsy.com

New in my shop

2009-11-04T23:54:00.002-05:00

I just posted two new dolls in my etsy shop. A smaller version of the Plague Doctor doll, and a new tentacled mermaid.

Caprice trailer

2009-11-01T16:45:00.004-05:00

Jack Bennett, the director and co-writer of Caprice, posted a teaser-trailer! The short film is based on one of Justin Cristelli's short horror stories.

CAPRICE Teaser

CAPRICE | MySpace Video

You can read the original story in Justin's book "Caprice and Other Stories," which is available in his lulu.com shop.

Halloween fun

2009-11-01T16:12:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone, hope you had a fun Halloween. Mine was great!

Friday night, ODU Theater did a midnight performance of Dracula. Justin and I got all dressed up...not in costume, but fancy "going to the theatre" clothes :) They did a great job, especially the actors playing Dracula and Renfield.

On Saturday we headed down to the beach to see The Nightmare Mansion, a local haunted walkthrough. It was pretty fun, but way too dark. I know it was supposed to be spooky, but I couldn't see any of the displays or monsters! Some ambient lighting would really help.

We headed back to Norfolk, had some frozen yogurt, and wandered around Ghent before going to see the Generic Theater perform Evil Dead: The Musical. Oh. My. God. Such a good show! It's funny and weird and the songs are way too catchy (I've had "What the Fuck was That?!" stuck in my head all day)

And to end the night, we watch Dr Madblood's Haunted Halloween. Dr Madblood is a local horror host. I really miss his weekly show, but I'm glad he's been doing Halloween specials the last few years. This year's movie was The House on Haunted Hill (with my dead celebrity crush, Vincent Price)

I didn't dress up this year (which was probably a good thing, since it was in in the 80s...) but I still had a blast! Hope you all did, too :)

Shop update!

2009-10-18T20:16:00.000-04:00

New dolls and plushes in my shop! Elizabeth Bathory, tombstones, The Fly, and Robot Monster :) I'll be adding more items all week!

MonsterFest is tomorrow!

2009-10-09T19:36:00.002-04:00

MonsterFest is tomorrow (October 10) at Chesapeake Central Library, from 9am to 4 pm. I'll be there, selling my plushes, doll, and art. Justin will be selling his new short story collection, called Caprice and Other Stories. (I painted the cover!)

If you can't make it to the show, don't worry. I'll be posting bunches of new things in my esty shop next week, and you can order Justin's book online (click here to order)

Hope to see you there!

A new painting!

2009-09-11T18:39:00.000-04:00

I finally scanned a painting that I finished earlier this year. The full title is "To You, My Love, I Give My Heart"

I Give My Heart by ~silentorchid on deviant ART

I'll have prints of it at MonsterFest, and up in my shop in a few weeks. I'm also thinking of making cards of it for Valentines Day. And the gothic part of my brain thinks it would make an awesome invite for a dark wedding! hehe :)

Commissions are open!

2009-09-07T14:37:00.002-04:00

Plush and doll commissions are now open! You can find all of the info for my commissions here.

If you have a character or design that you would like to see in plush form, please feel free to contact me. I would love to make it for you!

Stuffed magazine update

2009-08-28T19:28:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I got an unexpected email. The dolls that I sent in to Stuffed Magazine are going to be in the winter issue! I didn't think I'd hear back from them so quickly...AHH! This is so cool!
The winter issue should be out at the end of December or beginning of January.

What do you want on YOUR tombstone?

2009-08-25T20:17:00.002-04:00

I’m planning on making some tombstone plushes for Monsterfest, and I’d like to know if any of you would be interested in one. They’ll be customizable! I’ll embroider your name (or whatever name you like) right there while you wait :)

The picture above is of a small tombstone. There’s a loop on the back, so it can be attached to a keychain or be used as an ornament.

I’m planning on making these in three sizes, and each one will be a unique shape and design. The small ones are made from felt, and the medium and large will be made from fleece.
Small (2 or 3 inches tall, depending on design)
Medium (about 5 to 8 inches tall)
Large (a very huggable 12 to 15 inches tall)

Let me know if you’re interested in one. I'd like to know how many to bring to the show. I'll also have some up in my Etsy shop before Halloween.
See you at Monsterfest!

The monsters are coming...

2009-08-03T11:45:00.003-04:00

Monsterfest, a local horror convention, is only two months away! And for the second year in a row, I'll have a table set up with my plushes and art.

I was wondering if any of my lovely readers had suggestions for plushes they'd like to see. I'm trying to make only characters that are generic or in the public domain (bats, skulls, werewolves...) Does anyone know of any awesome monsters/creatures that are public domain? Last year I made Ro-Man (from the b-movie Robot Monster) and Nosferatu, and they were both big hits!

Thank you, darlings!

Stuffed Magazine

2009-07-31T19:10:00.002-04:00

This week I finished making a couple of plush dolls to submit to Stuffed magazine. I really love Stuffed, everything in it is so cute and colorful! I decided to make to of my freaks to send in, Siamese Twins and a Bearded Lady. I hope they are accepted...wish me luck!

Ghosty

2009-07-31T19:04:00.002-04:00

I forgot to post a picture of my latest commission. This is Ghosty, an original character of the commissioner's friend (who's getting it for her birthday!) He looks rather smug, doesn't he? :)

Shop Update

2009-07-30T13:39:00.001-04:00

I just added two new dolls to my Etsy shop. Have a look, won't you?

mortal plush show opening

2009-07-14T16:55:00.004-04:00

Moral Plush opened this weekend in National Harbor, Maryland (right outside of DC) This is my first time having a piece hanging in a gallery! I wish that I could have gone to the opening...

There are some pictures of the show up on flickr. One set of the show before the opening: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tobiahmundt/sets/72157614035893767/
And another set of opening night: http://www.flickr.com/photos/chriscreatures/sets/72157621210163801/
Look at this! You can see my plush in the window! (the doll with the orange dress) http://www.flickr.com/photos/chriscreatures/3713379970/in/set-72157621210163801/

Puppy!

2009-07-03T20:22:00.001-04:00

I finished another commission today. He's an English Bull Terrier in a Red Sox t-shirt. Made from fleece, he's 20 inches from head to tail.

Geronimo!

2009-06-29T14:55:00.002-04:00

My latest custom order was a very large plush doll of Goyathlay, better known as Geronimo.
He's made from fleece, with nylon hair, and is about 39 inches tall. He's also anatomically correct (my first time making plush genitals!) but I promised the commissioner that I wouldn't post pictures of his twig and berries (hehe!)

Mortal Plush show

2009-06-22T18:49:00.003-04:00

I just found out that I was chosen as an artist for the Mortal Plush show. Woohoo! This will be my first time having a piece of my art in an actual gallery show. (I'm now giddy and excited and dancing around...) Yay!

Recent commission

2009-06-21T13:42:00.003-04:00

Last night I finished a commission order that I've been working on for over a month. Thank you for being so patient with me!

This is The Vampire (times 2), Pansy, and Mouse.

In another treasury?!

2009-06-19T18:16:00.003-04:00

I just found out that my Dresden Dolls plushes are featured in an Etsy Treasury! http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=57868

Wow! What an awesome Etsy day!

Front Page!

2009-06-19T12:14:00.003-04:00

I woke up to a lovely surprise...my Siamese twins doll was featured on Etsy's front page last night! Yay!

Mortal Plush

2009-06-15T22:48:00.002-04:00

I finally finished my entry for Mortal Plush, a plush art show. They're conjoined twins, and one isn't too happy about it :)
The deadline is this Friday, and I'll find out Monday if I make it in or not. Wish me luck!

Two in one week?

2009-06-10T20:57:00.001-04:00

Yep, I update my Etsy shop again. This time I added some art prints. One more update later this week.

Etsy shop update!

2009-06-08T17:22:00.001-04:00

Just posted some new items in my Etsy shop. Look for more updates later this week

Comic book reviews - June 7, 2009

2009-06-07T21:21:00.001-04:00

I haven't done a comic post in weeks, so I have a big stack to review. I'm just going to do quick reviews this time. I'll make the next review post longer.

The Umbrella Academy: Dallas #6 of 6
Really good conclusion to a fantastic story! 5 out of 5

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz #6 of 8
Flying monkeys! Yay! Cute comic, as always. 4 out of 5

House of Mystery #13 and 14
13 - Three short stories, each centered around the number 13. Really fun departure from the current story. 4 out of 5
14 - Harry and Peter are stuck "somewhere" outside of the house, and Harry finds out that he may not be real. 4 out of 5

Ignition City #2 and 3 out of 5
I'm still into the story, but something is off with the art. Something about the faces just doesn't seem right. 3 out of 5

The Unwritten #1
Very cool first issue, I'll definitely be reading more of this. 4 out of 5

Buffy Season Eight #25
Finally, we find out what happened to Dawn. Pretty good. 4 out of 5

Buffy Season Eight, Tales of the Vampires
A special issue by Becky Cloonan and Vasilis Lolos, focusing on the new world where vampires are cool and slayers aren't. Loved it! 5 out of 5

Madame Xanadu #10 and 11
10 - The conclusion to the first story arc. 4 out of 5
11 - New story, and a new artist. And a cameo by Wesley Dodds?! 4 out 5

I've also been reading The Great Fables Crossover, but I'll save those reviews for when the story is done.
Until next time!

Awesome!

2009-06-07T15:35:00.004-04:00

Another Fantasci has come and gone. It was so fun! I love our local fanboys :) My booth was between Zeno's Comics and the local Jedi group!

I had kind of a bad start to the day. I was rushing to get ready, and I had an accident. I had just taken a shower and the bathroom was wet and slippery. I was leaning on the sink, looking in the mirror, when my hand slipped and my face smacked into the medicine cabinet! OUCH!
There's a red lump on the bridge of my nose now. I'm just glad my glasses cover it up.

Here's a picture of my table. I didn't sell much (very small croud...) but it was still fun!

This is Justin, my Super Boyfriend, and helper for the day :)

After the show, we took a short dinner break (Chinese food!) and relaxed for a while before heading back to the library for fantasmo movie night. We saw MST3K:The Movie, and Highlander. Lots of fun!

Now, to prepare for Monster Fest!

PS - I'm going to be updating my Etsy shop this week. So look for new plushes and prints to be listed soon.

Fantasci!

2009-06-03T16:35:00.003-04:00

This Saturday (June 6) is Fantasci, a local sci-fi/fantasy convention at Chesapeake Central Library. I'll have a table, selling my handmade plushes, dolls, and art. If you're in the area please come out to support the local fan community. The con is free and open to the public (no registration required) There will be panels, discussions, vendors, artists, writers, and a costume contest!

The con is from 9am to 4pm, but wait...there's more! The library will close at 4, but will open again at 7:30 for Fantasmo movie night, featuring Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie, and the original Highlander (director's cut!) In honor of MST3K:TM, I'll be donating a door prize. Up for grabs is a set of my MST3K bot plushes (Gypsy, Servo, and Crow)

Here are a few of the new dolls and plushes that will be for sale at the show:

2009-05-29T13:18:00.004-04:00

I went to the doctor today, just a simple visit to get a refill on a prescription. She did the usual checkup things: blood pressure, temperature...and weight. I've gained ten pounds in the last three months! Normally, I don't worry about my weight. I've never been a skinny person and I like my curves, so a little fat never bothered me. But gaining so much in such a short time worries me.

I have to stop snacking so much. If there's junk food in the house, I'll eat it. Sometimes I feel like I have no willpower over my eating habits.

And I need to start exercising. Not a lot, just moving more than I do now. On the way home today I stopped at Target and bought a jump rope. I think I'll start jumping rope and taking a long walk every day.

I love being a curvy girl, but I really don't want to gain any more weight. I like were I am right now...

New painting and updates

2009-05-28T13:48:00.002-04:00

I've been really busy for the last couple of weeks, trying to get things ready for Fantasci, a local sci-fi convention here in Virginia. I'll be there selling my plushes and dolls, as well as original art pieces and prints. I'll post more about the convention in a couple of days, until then, here's my latest painting: a retro robot, with the brain of a British gentleman!

Retro Robot painting by ~silentorchid on deviant ART

Another commission finished!

2009-05-12T16:17:00.002-04:00

I recently finished a huge commissioned plush for a huge Star Wars fan! It's a three foot tall tauntaun, named Greeata. She's very soft and cuddly :)

Small shop update

2009-05-02T13:39:00.001-04:00

I just added a new painting to my etsy shop. Have a look, won't you?

Random internet fun

2009-04-29T20:40:00.004-04:00

I've been sewing all day and my eyes are starting to go a bit fuzzy, so I'm taking a break and wasting some time online.

I'm currently working on three custom plush orders (6 plushes in all) plus a bunch of stuff for my shop and Fantasci (a local SciFi convention that I'll have a table at this June) I'm also drawing a cover for Justin's short story collection...I just love the idea he came up with! It's going to be awesome :)

And speaking of Justin...he's just shy of having 100 subscribers on his YouTube page. You should go and check it out (and subscribe!) He does comic book and movie reviews, MST3K reviews, and other dorky stuff. And when he gets to 100 subscribers he's going to do a special question and answer video.

Blogs I'm currently addicted to:
Cake Wrecks- Brilliantly joking on "professionally" made cakes.
Honey in Your Tea- Random beauty
Dork Yearbook- Dorky, nerdy goodness
Crafty Storage- I love looking into other artist's studios!

Vote for me! (please?)

2009-04-27T13:01:00.003-04:00

Cafe Handmade is having a Best in Show contest for their virtual craft show. I, and my etsy shop, are in the running and I need your votes! Just go to the link below and vote for Silent Orchid Studio. You have until next Saturday night.

Handmade Cafe - Best in Show

Thanks so much everyone!

I'm melting...

2009-04-26T00:45:00.004-04:00

There's currently a small heatwave here in Virginia. I don't like the heat. I feel like I can't do anything when it gets over 80 degrees. The official temperature today was 90, but I know it got up to 100 in Chesapeake (the official reading comes from the airport in Norfolk) I just don't think my body can handle the heat anymore. What's worse, I still live at home and my mom hates to turn on the air conditioner. Even when it's this hot, she just won't do it.

I want to live somewhere where it doesn't get so hot this soon in the spring. Maybe somewhere further North. Portland, Oregon sounds nice...or Seatle. Maybe Pittsburgh, my stepdad's mom lives there and she loves it.

I'm really tired of living here, but this is the only place I've ever lived. I wouldn't know where to go, really. Any suggestions? Somewhere that isn't too hot and humid in the summer, and is fairly cheap (for a starving artist) Maybe with a good art scene?

Comic book reviews - April 14, 2009

2009-04-14T19:20:00.006-04:00

Lots of reviews today, so lets get started!

Rose and Isabel, by Ted Mathot
Graphic novel in two parts, self published

Oh, my! I love this book. I stumbled across Ted Mathot's blog on boingboing.net and fell in love with his art.

Rose and Isabel is about the journey of two sister, trying to find their missing brothers during the Civil War. Descendants of an Irish warrior woman, they're smart, strong, and determined to bring their family back together.

I highly recommend that you get this. 5 out of 5!

Ignition City #1 of 5, by Warren Ellis
art by Gianluca Pagliarani

I haven't read much from Warren Ellis (just his online comic, FreakAngels) but the steampunk look of this book was intriguing so I picked it up. The story isn't bad. It's about Mary Raven, a pilot who's father (also a pilot) has just died. She goes to Ignition City, the last public space port, to collect his things and find out why or how he died.

Again, the story is pretty good. The art, however, is varied in quality. I love the backgrounds and the spacey/steampunk vehicles, but the characters are iffy to me. It may be the inking or the coloring, but they look stiff sometimes. I'll probably buy the rest of the mini series.

3 out of 5

Buffy, Season 8, # 24 by Jim Kruger
Art by Cliff Richards

Faith and Giles hear about a "slayer sanctuary" from a new, reluctant slayer. They go there with her and find out is isn't so much a sanctuary...

Good art and story, as usual. I really do love this series!

4 out of 5

The Umbrella Academy: Dallas #5 byGerard Way
Art by Gabriel Ba

I don't want to say too much about the plot, as it would spoil the fun. Read it. Now.

5 out of 5

House of Mystery, #12 by Matthew Sturges
Art by Luca Rossi

Really good issue. We learn some more about Cress, through the side story from the mysterious Genevieve. And we see one of Fig's father's hidden talents. Weird and fun. Can't wait to see what happens next!

4 out of 5

The Wonderful Wizard of OZ #5 of 8 by Eric Shanower
Art by Skottie Young

Finally, we get to see the Wicked Witch! Skottie Young's art is what really keeps me reading this book. I love his versions of these characters. The story isn't really new, but it's cute and fun.

4 out of 5

Madame Xanadu #9 by Matt Wagner
Art by Amy Reeder Hadley

We're now in 1940s New York, and Madame Xanadu is getting really tired of the Phantom Stranger. She sets a trap for him, with the help of John Zatara (who is the father of Zatanna, on of my favorite DC characters!)

Lovely art, and a great story. 5 out of 5

Etsy shop update

2009-04-10T15:02:00.001-04:00

Huge shop update today! Lots of new plushes, as well as screenprinted pins and original art pieces.

Cthulhus!!!

2009-04-09T23:06:00.002-04:00

Ready to destroy the world...with their cuteness!

This is the result of my very first wholesale order (woo hoo!) They'll be going with the wonderful The Poison Apple to Cthulhu 2 Convention in Madison, Wisconsin at the end of the month. If you can't make it, I'll have some in my etsy shop soon.

Fantasmo interview

2009-04-06T11:58:00.003-04:00

At this weekend's Fantasmo, Justin interviewed the hosts and creators of the show, Rob Floyd and Jim Blanton.

I can't believe I actually watched that...

2009-04-04T22:29:00.002-04:00

Last night was Bad Movie Night at Fantasmo. Every year, for Fantasmo's anniversary show, we stay up all night watching really bad movies. The audience votes on the movies shown, which means people actually wanted to see some of these. This year's movies were...

Against the Dark - I didn't watch all of this. It stars Steven Seagal as a vampire hunter. I don't think I need to say any more. I watched the last thirty minutes, and this is what it did to me

Justin still looks happy...he was in the lobby for the whole movie.

Chopping Mall - A really fun 80s movie about mall security robots that go on a killing spree when some teenagers are trapped in the mall after hours.

Leprechaun 4: In Space - I had never seen a Leprechaun movie before, and now I know why.

The Thing with Two Heads - Honestly, I slept through a lot of this on.

Sssssss - 70s movie about a doctor who specializes in snakes, who figures out how to turn a human into a snake. He secretly gives his new assistant the serum. Goofy and weird, but I've seen worse.

Squirm - I love this movie! I'm so glad we ended the night on something I know from MST3K. You gonna be da worm face!

Happy Birthday to

2009-03-31T15:08:00.002-04:00

ME!!!
Yup, I turn 27 today. It's a beautiful day, and tonight I'm having Chinese food and chocolate cake with Justin and my family.

I share my birthday with some nifty people...
Christopher Walken, Al Gore, Samantha Brown (Queen of the Travel Channel) and Liz Claiborne
Also, the Eiffel Tower was opened and the zipper was patented today in history. Neat!

2009-03-24T13:07:00.003-04:00

So, I got two wisdom teeth pulled yesterday. Justin was off of work, so he came with me (he's such a nice boyfriend!) It didn't take nearly as long as I thought it would. I think it took longer for my mouth to get numb than it did to pull the teeth.

We went back to my house after the dentist and watched movies all afternoon...Better Off Dead (John Cusack!!) and Soultaker (one of my favorite MST3K episodes) We also saw Let the Right One In, a beautifully creepy Swedish vampire film. I highly recommend it!

I woke up today with my face feeling like a chipmunk...all swollen and puffy, but there's not as much pain as I would have expected. I think it feels better now than it did before I got them pulled...

I still have to eat soft food for a few days. So I'm living on ice cream, mashed potatoes, pudding, yogurt, and anything that doesn't require lots of chewing. This morning I warmed up a strawberry muffin with lots of butter, and it was soft and yummy!

I'm working on some new plushes for my Etsy shop, as well as a couple of custom orders. I'm hoping to have a few things finished and posted by the end of the week. Stay tuned for more updates.

Now I'm grumpy...

2009-03-19T13:33:00.001-04:00

I'm usually a very calm, easy going kind of girl. I don't get pissed off very often, but right now I am.

I woke up today in a really good mood. The weather is nice and I was looking forward to seeing Justin tonight. We haven't seen each other since Sunday (which is kind of a long time for us) I've been missing him like crazy, and I needed to see him after a week of dentists poking around in my mouth.

But he just called me, and his car is still in the shop and he doesn't know when he's getting it back. Which means he isn't coming over tonight. AARRGG! Stupid car! Why can't you be fixed now?!

Comic book reviews - March 17, 2009

2009-03-18T00:05:00.002-04:00

I only got two new comics last week, so this post will be short.

The Wonderful Wizard of OZ, #4 of 8
Written by Eric Shanower, art by Scottie Young

I'm really enjoying this Marvel miniseries. It's charming and cute, with fun scary bits thrown in. It's adapted from Baum's book, not the famous movie.

In this issue, they've reached the Emerald City and get to talk to the Wizard. Of course he won't just give them what they want, they must kill the Wicked Witch.

Scottie Young's art is fantastic. I love his character designs, especially the Tin Man and Toto. So cute!
5 out of 5

Fables #82
Written by Bill Willingham, art by David Hahn

An epilogue to the Dark Ages story arc. Back at The Farm after Blue's funeral, everyone is dealing with the lose in their own way. Rose Red is seriously depressed and Pinocchio is hopeful that Blue will come back (like other dead Fables have before.)

The art for this issue is pretty good. Also, this is the first issue after James Jean's run as cover artist. I'll miss his covers, but Mark Buckingham isn't a bad substitute.

Not a very exciting issue, so I'll give it 3 out of 5

Gaiman on Colbert

2009-03-17T12:43:00.003-04:00

Last night, Neil Gaiman was a guest on The Colbert Report. I squeaked with geekey joy when I heard he would be on :) My favorite author on one of my favorite shows? Too awesome!

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Neil Gaiman

Colbert Report Full Episodes
Political Humor

Rap Battle
NASA Name Contest

What's I've been up to lately

2009-03-16T22:27:00.004-04:00

I haven't written in a while...I haven't felt good lately. My jaw has been killing me for a few months now, so I went to the dentist last week. I had a cavity (which he filled) but the real problem is my wisdom teeth. I went to a different office today and he said that he can't remove them (it isn't fully exposed or something) so I have an appointment on Wednesday to talk to an oral surgeon about removing them. I've never had surgery before, so I'm a little freaked. But if my jaw stops hurting, well...I'll happily do it.

In other news, I've been sewing, and sewing, and sewing for the last few weeks. I've had a ton of custom orders to fill, including my very first wholesale order! I'm also working on some things to add to my Etsy shop. New plushes, and some screen printed pins and patches. I think I'm also going to add some of my original art.

I'm working on my review of last weeks new comics. It should be up sometime tomorrow.

And it's only two weeks until my birthday, so while I was out today I bought myself an early birthday gift...Awesome cranberry red Converse One Star shoes from Target! They are so cute! They look like vintage track shoes :)

Comic book reviews

2009-03-05T13:56:00.003-05:00

Today I'm starting a new weekly comic book review. I don't read that many monthly titles. I tend to like single book stories (no cross overs, no need to read other books to get what's going on in the main book) I like mini series, graphic novels, and starting from issue #1 (I don't like jumping in the middle of a story)

This week I picked up...

Hellboy #40
Part 4 of The Wild Hunt story.
Written by Mike Mignola, art by Duncan Fegredo

Hellboy and Alice follow a little creature (imp or fairy?) who says that he was sent as a guide by Mab, but its a trap! Those little guys are nuts! Great art, as usual. I really need to read all of the back issues, as this mentions some things from past stories I haven't read yet.

There's a backup story "Baba Yaga's Feast" by Mignola, with art by Guy Davis. It's excellent! I love folk tales, especially weird Russian Baba Yaga stories. Again, the art is fantastic.

4 out of 5

Buffy Season 8, #23
Written by Drew Greenberg, art by Georges Jeanty

Buffy and Andrew go on a road trip to stop Simone, a rouge slayer. This is a really fun issue. I love Andrew! Such a geek, and so lovable. He and Buffy "geek bonding" is hilarious. This issue felt like an episode of the show, with just the right combination of action and humor.

5 out of 5

House of Mystery #11
Part 1 of The Space Between
Written by Matthew Sturges, art by Luca Rossi

First, the cover is probably my favorite of the series so far. But I don't know who does the covers! I looked through the whole issue, but no mention of a cover artist. Is it Luca Rossi?

Anyway...This is a great issue. We find out more about the weird floating couple, and where people go when they leave the House. Fig's father is still an asshole, and Harry and Fig finally sleep together. Oh, and the Administrator of Ceorel is really creepy!

5 out of 5

First ETSY sale!

2009-02-24T11:50:00.002-05:00

Woo hoo! I made my very first sale on Etsy yesterday! I'm officially in business :)

Goodbye little Nosferatu plush, have fun at your new home!

Coraline review

2009-02-16T22:20:00.002-05:00

I meant to write this last week when I saw the movie...but time flies...

I've been a huge fan of both Neil Gaiman and Henry Selick for years and years. Selick made two fantastic stop motion animated movies, The Nightmare Before Christmas and James and the Giant Peach. Neil Gaiman is quite possibly my favorite author, writing strange, funny, spooky stories for adults and children. When I heard that they were going to be working together, it filled my geeky heart with joy.

I read Coraline soon after it came out and I loved it. It's a creepy adventure...a kids horror story. Henry Selick is the perfect director to bring it to life.

The film is fantastic! The stop motion is beautifully done, and all of the characters and sets are well designed. It follows the book fairly closely. The most major difference is the addition of a character, Wybie Lovat, the grandson of the woman how owns Coraline's house. I didn't mind him so much, since he is actually there for a reason (not just added for nothing) and he has one of my favorite creepy moments in the movie (smile!)

I love that the film makers left in all of the creepy things that I love in the book. Spink and Forcible's dead dogs, the Other Mother's real form, the ghost children, and the way the Other World falls apart as the Other Mother realizes that she's loosing Coraline.

The visuals are amazing. I love the character designs! Coraline has blue hair, which I hadn't pictured on her when I read the book, but suits her...she's a little rebel!

Overall this is a beautiful, creepy, fun movie. I highly recommend seeing it! 5 out of 5

I like buttons

2009-02-05T21:27:00.000-05:00

Coraline starts tomorrow!

Cutest. Story. Ever.

2009-01-31T12:21:00.001-05:00

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-452482/Orphaned-owls-new-cuddly-toy-mum.html

CPSIA news

2009-01-31T11:30:00.002-05:00

Some wonderful news concerning the proposed CPSIA testing. The Commission has voted for a one year suspension of the mandatory lead testing and certification, while they look over the rules. Wow! Their statement even mentions crafters and home based businesses!

You can read the full statement on etsy:
http://www.etsy.com/storque/craftivism/breaking-news-the-cpsia-mandatory-testing-certification-prop-3347/

I love democracy!

ETSY!

2009-01-30T17:27:00.001-05:00

I finally started a shop on etsy! I've been planning it for a long time now, and it's finally up! I only have a few things posted, but I'm planning on adding more over the next few weeks. What would you like to see in my shop? I have some original paintings (which I can make into prints) and lots of ideas for plushes and dolls. I'll also be adding the preview edition on Justin's novel, Divita (which I made the cover for)

We found a kitty

2009-01-12T17:37:00.001-05:00

There's a little kitty at my house. It just showed up yesterday. He's very friendly and I wish we could bring him in the house, but he isn't neutered and we already have two cats. I'm not sure if they would like him...

I think he's already adopted us. Every time we open the door, he tries to get in (and mews like crazy when he can't)

Help save small businesses from a scary new law

2009-01-06T20:16:00.003-05:00

In August 2008, Congress passed The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The CPSIA bans lead and phthalates in children's products, mandates third party testing and certification, and requires manufacturers of all goods for children under the age of 12, to permanently label each item with a date and batch number. The law goes into effect February 10, 2009.

I'm all for making toys safe, but the new law will affect all businesses...not just large companies. This means that someone like me, who makes plush toys and dolls or any product considered a toy, will have to have a thrid party test EACH toy produced. Thousands of small business could be put out of business very shortly if nothing is done to change the bill.

The site below explains it better than I can.
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/

I'll be writing more about this soon.

Just finished...

2009-01-06T18:31:00.003-05:00

Last night I finished a custom plush of Sebulba, a character from Star Wars. He's one of the biggest plushes I've made (three feet tall!)

And he has teeth!

I also just posted some pictures on flicker and DeviantArt of a werewolf plush that I made as a Christmas gift for my friend Phyllis to give to her husband Rob. He's a huge werewolf fan! This is one of his favorites, from Hammer Horror's movie "Curse of the Werewolf"

2009-01-05T00:35:00.002-05:00

I was in a "It's a new year, so I need a new look" kind of mood today, so I got a haircut. It's short! I haven't had it this short before. I love it!

More pictures are on my Flickr page.

Resolutions, wishes, and dreams

2009-01-02T19:11:00.002-05:00

Things I want to do this year...

- Illustrate a comic book (or two)
- Get a job (even a crappy part time job)
- Start my own line of plush toys and dolls
- Get my internet shop running
- Watch lots of fun movies
- Go to more concerts
- Go on a road trip
- Organize my room
- Get rid of things I no longer need (stop being a pack rat)
- Be more independent
- Save money
- Buy a car of my very own
- Do something creative every day (even if it's just a doodle or a few minutes of sewing)
- Finish reading all of the books in my "to be read" pile
- Wear more skirts and dresses (dress up for no reason at all)
- Enjoy every moment

So, this is the new year...

2009-01-02T13:04:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to you all! I thought I'd do a year end blog, something about how my 2008 turned out. It was a pretty good year, overall. Even with all of the bad things going on in the world, the horrible economy, and the sad news of wonderful entertainers dying...I still think it was a pretty good year.

Obama winning the election made my year! In less than three weeks he'll be our new President, and I'm so very, very excited! I spent my whole adult life with Bush as president (he was elected when I was 18) and now it's finally over :)

I had a hard summer. I was sick and sad and worried all of the time. I found out that I have anxiety disorder. But through the miracle of modern science, they have pills for that...so I'm feeling much better.

I got to go to my first comic book convention with Justin. I really wish I could have stayed the whole weekend, but I felt horrible and sick so we only stayed for one day. It's ok, though. It was fun day, and we're going back this year.

I had an absolute blast at this year's Monsterfest! Justin and I shared a table. He had his preview edition of Divita for sale (with my illustrated cover!) and I had a bunch of my plushes for sale. I met some cool people, and later we watched horror movies until dawn.

I want 2009 to be even better. I'm already planning some awesome stuff. I just signed up for a shop on ETSY, so I'm hoping to grow my business this year. I'm working on designs for my own plush characters and creatures. I'm going to be illustrating at least one comic book (maybe two by the end of the year?) And maybe (finally) I'll get a real job and movie out on my own.

This year I want to do something creative every day. I want to see lots of good movies, and read lots of awesome books and comics. And I want to spend time simply doing nothing with Justin, feeling calm and loved.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T20:15:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope that everyone had a lovely Christmas. Mine was pretty sweet!

I got some awesome presents. I got a bunch of books, including the Tori Amos book "Comic Book Tattoo," the first volume of Hellboy, "How to Be an Explorer of the World" by Keri Smith, and the new Neil Gaiman book "The Graveyard Book." My dad got me subscriptions to Juxtapose and Craft magazines, and Amanda Palmer's new CD. Justin got me the Dr. Zoidberg action figure!

My cats love Christmas!

After spending the day with our families, Justin and I went to see "The Spirit." The previews weren't amazing, but I love the character and the recent comic series so I went with an open mind. It was...ok. Not great, but not horrible either. I'm not sure if Frank Miller was the best choice for director (I love his visual style, but he seems to be stuck in film noir) It was a little too goofy and cartoon-ish, and there wasn't much of a plot. I give it a 5 out of 10.

While waiting to see the movie, we wandered around looking at all of the coming attraction displays. I found one for Coraline! I'm really excited about this movie. What could be better than a Neil Gaiman story, with Henry Selick animation and direction?

I'm going to be posting again soon about this past year, and my wishes and hopes for the new year.

Cheers!
Lindsay

What do you want for Christmas?

2008-12-24T13:06:00.000-05:00

...I want to decide who lives and who dies...

Pretty Balanced

2008-12-23T21:40:00.003-05:00

Last night Justin and I got to see one of our favorite bands, Pretty Balanced. The night didn't start out as we'd planned, but we still had a wonderfully fun time.

The band was supposed to play at The Jewish Mother, a great restaurant down at the Virginia Beach ocean front. We got there early so we could have dinner first, but to our surprise they were closed. The lights were off, the door was locked and not a soul was in sight. Totally surprising, since they are always open late and there wasn't an announcement.

I called my sister, and she went to the bands Myspace page. She said their page now said they were playing at The Bayside Inn. Sigh...and where's that? Luckily, I just got a new cell phone that had a month of free GPS navigation. I hadn't tried it yet, but I typed in "The Bayside Inn, VA Beach" and it found it! And it gave me turn by turn directions! (Isn't technology amazing?)

We got to the show about ten minutes late, but at least we got there. The band was awesome, and super nice (they were here last winter and remembered us!) The venue really sucked (just a hole in the wall, redneck bar) and was full of smoke and loud drunks, but I still had a great time. And afterward (since we still hadn't had dinner) we went to IHOP! Midnight pancakes always seem to taste better than morning pancakes.

I've put a few videos of the show up on my Youtube page...
"The Skin"

Prosthetic Face (a new song)

Shut Me Up (MSI cover)

Christmas plushes

2008-12-16T15:03:00.002-05:00

I got a bunch of orders for Tom Servo plushes for Christmas. Since they are made to order, I haven't had the chance to take a picture of all three sizes together until now.

Bots with their maker.

I also made a custom plush of a customer's original character. Her design is so cute, and I love how the plush turned out.

Sad week for fandom

2008-12-12T11:58:00.005-05:00

It's been a really sad week for geek fandom. Lots of greats are passing on. First Forest Ackerman, creator of "Famous Monsters of Filmland" magazine. He was a fan's fan, a collector and lover of all things science fiction. He coined the word "sci-fi" and gave Ray Bradbury his start.

A few days later Beverly Garland, a marvelous actress and star of some wonderful B movies, passed. She was lovely and had a great appreciation for all of her fans. She even attended the first MST3K convention :)

And saddest of all, today I found out that Bettie Page has died. She was a pinup queen, and a beautiful free spirit. She'll be greatly missed.

Winking Whales!

2008-12-07T00:57:00.002-05:00

I love thrift stores! Today, I found these adorable salt and pepper shakers. They're whales with winky eyes! Awesome!

Recent plushes

2008-12-05T17:34:00.002-05:00

I just finished two commissioned plushes. They're both made of fleece, so they are really soft!

Hazy Sunday

2008-12-01T12:24:00.002-05:00

I love fog. Everything seems more quiet and dreamy when the clouds are low, and you can't see the tops of buildings.

The cookie knows all

2008-11-25T00:38:00.002-05:00

Welcome to my new home

2008-11-22T19:48:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone!

I'm Lindsay. I'm an aspiring artist and crafter living in Virginia. I spend most of my time making things, sewing plush toys and drawing and painting. I want to be a comic book artist, and a plush toy designer, and a professional illustrator. I have a wonderful boyfriend who writes books and comics, and makes me laugh a lot.

As some of you know, I have had two blogs going for the last couple of years; my personal writing on Myspace, and my art blog on livejournal. It was getting a little annoying (especially when I wanted to write something that would fit in both) so I decided that it'll be better to have just one and write about everything :)