Be Thankful! from Irish Corkie Primitives

There is still time to share this appropriate set of blocks for the coming Thanksgiving.

Today I have up for your consideration a Primitive Thanksgiving Be Thankful Wooden Shelf Sign Blocks. Handcrafted from select solid pine. The blocks were painted Tinderbox Brown and Olde Parchement. .

Blocks measures approximately 7" long and 8" high.



After the blocks were dry, they were then sanded carefully and antiqued to give the appearance of that "OLDE WORN" look. A hand rubbed protective sealant was applied for years of protection.

We use authentic Milk Paints on all of our signs, furniture and blocks. If you would prefer the peg rack done in a different color, please see the color choices listed in my store and let me know at the time of purchase. If you do not a see a color listed that you would like, please send me an email and I will work with you to get the perfect color.

The back of the blocks are completely finished and stained.

A great addition to your primitive Fall/Thanksgiving Decor.

Please allow 3-5 days for your piece to completed. Thank you.


Materials Used:
solid pine wood, milk paints, antiquing medium, protective sealant, stain


Find Me Online At:http://www.artfire.com modules,php?name=listing&product id=411380
Thanks and Hugs
Barb

Harvesting the corn--Candy corn-that is!

These ornies are so cute, you could almost eat them! 4 of the five ornies are made from three different fabrics, each different from the others with the last being made entirely from muslin. To this one I added painted prim stitching. All were grunged in a mixture of coffee, vanilla and cinnamon to give then that aged prim look and scent. On the painted ornie I added a rusty bell and a grunged hang tag that says "Olde Thyme Candy Corn," attached with rusty safety pin. These ornies are a perfect addition to any home, as a memento to an old time favorite - candy corn! There are 5 ornies in each set. Each one is different in appearance, and each one grunged with coffee stain and cinnamon. The ornies measure approximately 6 inches tall and 4 inches at their widest point. Perfect for sitting in a bowl on the kitchen table, the mantle or a side table in the living room.

See them at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=212317

Oh so perfect for autumn!!!!

This wonderful autumn themed wooden box is perfect to add that special touch to your home this season. The leaves, acorns, drieds and prim pumpkin are a traditional part of this time of year. I like the homespuns that were mixed and added for that timeless homey feeling. This would be outstanding in any home, primitive, country, modern and more. Tradition always has a place.

You can see it at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=564593

Stop by and enjoy the offerings at Pioneer Loft at Artfire.com

Hugs,

Barb

Fresh Eggs?

Just had to share these with you. Our chickens are laying the most beautiful eggs. Our chickens are free range and oh so tame. They really like people...strange for those who don't spend a lot of time here.

These eggs are presented by Holly Ridge Creations and look so wonderful.

The artisan describes them as: have painted this vintage bowl light ivory and stained it with black. A vine,berries and stars have been painted around the outside of the bowl and a large star is painted in the center of the inside of the bowl. Included are 5 handpainted, lightly sanded and stained paper mache' eggs. The eggs are tan, dark red, blue, green and mustard.

The bowl is 6" in diameter and 2" tall. The eggs are 2 1/2" long.

Take some time to see these and other creations at her Artfire Shop: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=25899&op=new&body=1

Enjoy!!!!!!

Hugs,

Barb

I'm back! Farm and kids kept me busy.

After way to much time away, I am back. Got the kids of to school. That was something. Miss them. Autumn is a time that takes a lot of work here on the farm Getting ready for winter in necessary is that winter is not overwhelming.

Hoping for a good winter. Snow but not too much. Cold but not to cold. You know the kind of weather we hope for and never get. lol

Hugs,

Barb

For indoors or out.

While cruising at Artfire, I saw this beautiful gourd and wanted to share it with you.

This is presented by SimplyGourdgeousArt and is beautifully done.

Hello...Up for sale I have a beautiful handpainted gourd birdhouse. I painted a beautiful bird flying among the tree branches to check on her nest full of eggs. I placed a pinecone petal roof on this house. The house is approximately 11 inches tall and 22 inches around. This house has several coats of sealer and may be placed inside or outdoors.

Take the time to check out this fine work and talk to you later.

Barb

The kids are back in School

The last couple of weeks this family has been busy getting people back to school. For more info please check out my other blogs for pictures and info. It was fun and exciting to see them start and continue a new part of their lives.

Now back to work.

Primitive Painted Wood 4 Peg Shaker Peg Rack

Another great find for your home!!!!!
Offered by PalmerFallsPrimitive this is a great item. I like how they teamed it with candle holder.
Here is what the artist has to say about it.

Primitive Shaker Peg Rack

Just like our larger 5 peg shaker rack, our new 4 peg rack is made from solid pine wood, and painted using Authentic Olde Century Milk Paint.
Listing is for Peg rack Only. All other items are for display purposes.
Example shown has been painted black. Distressed and antiqued to have a time worn look.
Measures 5 1/2"X 24", and has 4 shaker pegs securely attached.
Can be ordered as shown with one color or order it with a base coat of your choice, and a top coat.

This item can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=340566

Enjoy your week,
Hugs,
Barb

WOW!!!! A Beautiful Still Life

Twiddlebugz Designz has made this lovely still life available for all of us to see and a lucky buyer to own. This could be the focal point in that prim, country or colonial kitchen or dining room. It was also be perfect for a den, library or family room. I truly like this piece and its versatility.
As a person who is decorating a 100 year old barn, this makes me more than smile!

Please visit TwiddlebugzDesignz and see this and more at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=227615

The artist adds the following: I've painted this fruit still life on a cabinet door. It's been painted black, the fruit was freehand drawn and then painted. There is lots of drybrushing on each piece of fruit to bring out the highlights and shadows. A drybush of green has been applied around the border and the edges have been sanded for an aged/distressed look.

Enjoy your Tuesday,
Barb

Rise and Shine--It's Monday!!!!

It's just around the corner and time to decorate for Autumn is in the air. Here is a gathering of prim pumpkins that will help you enjoy the season.

She describes her work as: Plump Fall Pumpkins, perfect for any primitive harvest display.

This listing of four (4) plump primitive pumpkins which are made of muslin, painted and put through my special primming process with an extra dose of grunge and smell oh so wonderful!!

Each pumpkin is hand sculpted to give them that real pumpkin look. You will receive 3 prim orange pumpkins and 1 prim cream pumpkin. Should you prefer another color assortment, just let me know.

A piece of quality assorted homespun has been tied around the real tree limb stem.
Each pumpkin measures approximately 13" in diameter and 5" tall including the stem, will arrive to you carefully packaged.

As always, I will gladly combine ship whenever possible on multiple purchases. Please contact me for adjusted combined shipping amount.


It is offered by artfire artist Northwind Star. See this fine work at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=340840

Happy shopping

Barb

A Handmade barn ornament for your tree!!!!!!!!

This ornament is presented by http://www.artfire.com/users/crackerjack1 of Artfire.
A great amount of detail is seen inthis finely crafted ornament.

The artist states:

This could be a Christmas tree ornament, or you can prop it up on a shelf. Gift idea for a farmer, ag teacher, FFA or 4H Club member/leader, or someone with counry on his/her mind.
Dimensions: 4 1/4" wide x 6 1/2 high. Built of recycled wood from a peanut crate

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

Many barns have a distinctive front face. With the barn door open, they look like they go forever. Who knows what is in there, or how long ago it was put there?

Even though Christmas in July is nearly over, we still have time to try to plan ahead to ensure a quiet and joyous winter holiday season.

Hugs, Barb

Vintage hang tags for the coming holidays........

Great for the holidays, these hang tags are so versatile. They can be used for gifts, crafts and more. Great to attach to that gift for teachers and more.

They are from Prairie Harvest Arts at Artfire. See them at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=321384

Product Description:

Such cute little tags! Great to use with gift baskets and various other things.

They are a remembrance of an older, simpler time and I hope you enjoy the children playing in the winter snow.

These tags print out on 8.5x11 card stock and once you download them, they're yours to use again and again.

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

I enjoy old things. I live on a farm in a 100 year old barn and truly appreciate the craftsmanship of times long ago. These hang tags will add that warm old fashioned feeling to your gift and craft projects year after year. You can print them over and over.

Hugs, Barb

A Hammered Sheep Ornie for Christmas

The GIFT for your favorite fiber lover! Actually this handmade ornament is a fine addition to any tree or folk art decoration for the upcoming holiday season as well as year round.

It is available from Artfire artist: LilAcresFarm

Primitive folk art hand hammered metal sheep Can be used indoors or outdoors, as a Christmas or home ornament. Looks great hanging off your spinning wheel or loom. Great gift for all your fiber loving friends anytime of year
Measures 3 1/4 x 3 1/4 inches at widest points

It can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=292865


For this item and more, visiti the fine craftspeople at Artfire.com

Hugs,
Barb

Button, button, who's got the Christmas Buttons?

Just the thing for your Christmas Projects. Artifre's buttonsbyrobin offers these winter wonder snowman buttons for you to use in your own creative way.

You can see them at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=290047

The artist describes them as follows:

Six handmade Christmas or winter buttons in the shape of a penny rug for sewing, scrapbooking and more. These have a primitive or country look and are perfect for your primitive Christmas or winter crafting. This design is a blue penny rug with a couple of snowman. The image is my own original design.

Washable!

Use for:
-sewing
-knitting
-art quilts
-scrapbooking
-card making
-embellishment
-altered art
-collage
-purses/bags
-anywhere your imagination takes you

Approximately 1 1/4' wide by 5/4" tall or 3" cm wide by 1.75 cm tall. The last picture shows the buttons with a Canadian penny (which is the same size as an American penny or one cent piece) to help demonstrate the size.

I've been making buttons for over seven years and over time I've perfected my methods and finally found a combination of materials that are washable. This means you can use these buttons anywhere you would normally use buttons.

These buttons are created and hand made by me using a graphic I created myself. They are not available anywhere else. This sale is for a set of SIX buttons. If you would like these buttons in quantities different from that which is listed here just convo me and I will see what I can do.

Due to their hand made nature they are all unique. That's the beauty of hand created items. If you like cookie cutter designs available anywhere these are not for you. If you appreciate hand crafted artisan work then they're perfect.

My button and jewelry items are not meant for young children who might like to chew on them because, like any small item, they are a choking hazzard.

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

I love snowman and winter and Christmas!!! I've recently decided to try and develop my own line of graphics for my images and these are some of my first attempts. I've always loved primitive designs as well and this project lets me combine so many of the things I love. I hope you enjoy these buttons as well.

Enjoy Christmas in July,
Hugs,
Barb

More Christmas in July

These are well done with the original being hand painted by HuckleberryArts. You can print as many of thee as you need for four Christmas projects and gifts.

They can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=184095

From Huckleberry Arts:

This is actually one of my first Printables done a few years back I was asked to offer him again and decided I would for a limited time

This file can be sent PDF or JPeg It is a 300 DPI file

This is a hand painted Santa by me, done onto the hang tag, and then created into the collage sheet

You can use all my sheets in art for sale, as hang tags, incorporated into art work, or just use as hang tags, enclosure tags, gift tags.

Once you purchase one of my sheets you can print as many times as you like.

Happy Christmas in July!

Hugs Barb

The Night Before Christmas

Vintage Keepsake Trunk has created a wonderful Christmas "keepsake" for your family to appreciate for many, many years.

You can see this wonderful creation at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=291910

Product Description:

Welcome Prim Friends, and thank you for stopping by to view my new Christmas Offerings. Here we have a Primitive Grubbied "Night Before Christmas" Book. This piece would be the perfect display for your Christmas fireplace hearth, on a bureau or table by the tree measuring 22" tall and 17" wide.

I have created this piece in the primitive fashion to give it that time-worn look. The hard cover of the book is sewn from muslin, stiffened and painted barn red, baked, sanded, washed with a coffee-vanilla-cinnamon aging solution and baked again. Cardboard was inserted for stability and stitched inside. Pages of grubby stained and stiffened muslin were hand-stitched into the book cover. The top pages were printed out onto parchment colored paper, stained, and baked. I carefully burned the edges with a flame and sealed them onto the muslin. The left page tells the story in Olde English script font and the photo on the right shows Santa delivering a doll to two little girls.

Around the edges of the pages I have inserted pine sprigs, berries and spanish moss. Tiny rusty jingle bells were pinned to the pages with rusty safety pins around the edges. Stained cheesecloth was used for the book mark down the center of the pages.

This piece has been lovingly hand-made by me from a pattern created by Old Glory Primitives.

This design will come to you dated, signed and tagged with my own label Collectibles by Joan which states The Handcrafting and Time Invested in this Piece are its Own Mark of Quality.

Merry Christmas in July.

Hugs,
Barb

Bethany Angel Makedo

This is a beautiful doll that is available on Artfire. I can see her nestled in a cozy quilt on a stool in an entry way to greet your guests or to add that special "angelic" touch to a family room. She would be great added to any room in any home.

The artist is artisanmemories
You can see this beautiful doll at http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=321050

SHe is describes as: Bethany Angel is made of Muslin. She is painted throughout her bodice and face. Her face is painted with water colours and her bodice is painted with red acrylics. Bethany's hair is adored with bells. She also wears a warm and natural collar with bells upon it. She also has warm an natural cuffs with bells. Her skirt is made of homespun. Her wings are made of Muslin and she is stained with a coffee aging mixture.
She has hand stitched eyebrows and a handstitched mouth. in her hands you will find a star with bells on each corner and a grapevine star wreath in the center.
She stands on a wooden candle stick.


Enjoy July and there's never enough time to prepare for Christmas!

Hugs,
Barb

Happy Monday Morning!

I truly appreciated my week of taking extra time for self and family and am now ready to get going again. I love the artwork at Artfire and am ready to share some more.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hugs,
Barb

Taking a week off!

Decided it was time to take some time for myself to rest, reinvigorate and get ready for the rest of the year.. See you next week.
Hugs
Barb

Take time to paint for Christmas!

s

Well Earned Nap - Painting Pattern Packet

take a look at his great packet on instructions for you to pain your own piece of art for Christmas. Presented by DawksArt on Artfire, this wonderful project could brighten up your holidays.
According to the artist:
This is an original design of a napping Santa, painted on a tag, approximately 3 x 4 inches. The packet contains instructions, a line drawing, a photo and a glossary of terms to aid you in painting this item. It can be enlarged and painted on a variety of surfaces.

It can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=263764

Enjoy your weekend.

Hugs,
Barb

They hung the stockings with care.......

Get enough for your family now!
Basketsbyrose presents a traditional Christmas stocking for you to enjoy. She describes it as: Quilted Christmas Stocking in the crazy quilt pattern. Machine fancy stitching adds charm. Made from fannel fabric, with scrape quilt batting for the top trim piece. A jingle bell has been sewn on. Great for males, or cabin decoration. Size 20" x 13". Will hold a lot of goodies on Christmas morning.

This item is green, made from scrap fabric.

I can see a whole row of these mounted on the mantel of the fireplace, going up the banister and you could always include them in that care package to the loved ones who cannot be with you for Christmas.

Christmas stockings are a wonderful tradition that we all love.

See this one at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=299865

Merry Christmas in July,
Hugs,
Barb

Brrr..... It's cold out there!!!

Getting ready to decorate for winter and Christmas?

This is perfect! Presented by OldeAnnieArts on Artfire, this is a wonderful addition to your home.
From the artist:

"This is the sweetest snowman gathering I've put together in an old Kraft cheese box. The trees were made from a couple of green cotton prints, stained and baked. The snowman is made from terrycloth, has a little striped knitted hat and a brown plaid scarf. He has a heart and star button on front and little brown wood mittens. Stitched to his front is a little square of fabric that reads "cold hands - warm "heart". Also tucked in the box is some Spanish moss, pine picks and cream pip berries. Everything is tucked in nice and snug. Measures approximately 13 inches wide by 10 inches tall."

It can be found at:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=291698

Happy shopping,
Barb

Christmas in July continues with.........

A great way to decorate for Christmas. This sign is a warm way to welcome guests to your home, and bring a smile in with them.

It has been crafted by BeeCharmerPrimitives. Rhonda of Bee Charmers describes it as follows:
know what you are thinking, it's too early for Christmas! But it will be here before you know it! So I have decided to list some of my Christmas signs for a Christmas in July promotion. This sign has been painted tan, napa red, thicket green and dark brown. You are welcome to change the colors at no additional charge! This sign measures 9.5" by 24", I have given it a wonderful primitive finish and it will come ready to display with a sawtooth hanger attached to the back.

See it at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=291746

Enjoy your summer and let's get ready for Christmas!!!!!

Hugs,
Barb

Christmas in July!

It's that time of year.
Christmas in July. It's never to early to start getting ready for that busy period.

To start this off with we have a perky elf from Santa's shop.

He is presented by VintageKeepsakeTrunk on Artfire.

You can see him at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=292047
Here we have a very unique, Primitive Folk Art Santa's Elf. He is just a perfect display for Christmas hanging on the wall, as a door greeter, or hanging on the fireplace! This piece measures 22 in tall and 6 in wide.

This elf's body is sewn from tea-dyed muslin and stuffed tightly with needle-sculpted elf ears. His dangling arms and legs are made from thick jute twine that I have knotted for his knees and his hands. His round red nose is barn red fabric stuffed tightly and his matching Raggedy red hair is made from Loopy Locks. His curled elf boots are sewn from black fabric and tiny gold jingle bells are stitched to the tips with hunter green knit scrunchy socks.

For his festive ensemble, he wears a shirt sewn from a red, green and white Christmas plaid with his sleeves turned up. I have blanket-stitched the edges of his barn red felt vest with black floss and embellished the front with two tiny black buttons. A tiny painted wooden gingerbread man pops out of his pocket. His night cap features a tiny red gingham check with a gold jingle bell tied to the tip. His pants are sewn from a black and green check and prim stitched around the edges with red floss with a matching green bow tie.

Rudolf the Reindeer dangles from one hand tied on with jute linen thread. His body is sewn from tea-dyed muslin with separate needle-sculpted ears, head, legs and body. He boasts a big red bow under his chin with a gold jingle bell. His big red nose is stuffed felt and his eyes are dip-dot black paint. His tuft of hair features blonde stringlets and his antlers are made from curled black wire.

The Feed Bag dangles from his other hand and is sewn from natural Burlap and each corner is tied off with bows of natural jute linen thread. A label is prim-stitched in red floss with Reindeer Food written in pigma pen. A tiny holly leaf and berry embellishes the feed bag.

I have given him a Prim Tag that I have aged in a coffee-vanilla-cinnamon mixture, baked and topped with a nostalgic print of a vintage greeting card showing Olde St. Nick with his back pack of toys and a Christmas pine tree.

This piece was lovingly made by me from a pattern created by Sweet Dreams.

This design will come to you dated, signed and tagged with my own label Collectibles by Joan which states The Handcrafting and Time Invested in this Piece are its Own Mark of Quality.

Enjoy your summer and the time to prepare for Christmas.

Hugs,
Barb

Happy 4th of July to the USA!!!!!

Happy 4th of July to all
Announce it to the world with this great sign by CountryWorkshop

You can view this sign at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=274465 plus many more.

Decorate with this Happy 4th Sign painted on an antique white worn finish background. Fireworks are sparkled with iridescent glitter.

Sign is made of ½ inch mdf (medex), an exterior grade building material which won't warp or crack due to weather and painting is sealed so this is ready to be hung outside if desired. There are no knots and this has a smooth finish.

Sign measures 6 inches x 14 inches

Each sign is cut to shape and painted with acrylic paint and sanded. The design is then painted on, each individually and each is a little different. A final top coat of a catalyzed varnish is applied and the sign is ready to go. A key-hole slot is cut in the back for hanging on a nail or screw.

Happy 4th and
Hugs, Barb

PRIMITIVE FOLK ART AMERICANA DOLL for all year round

Americana at it s best!!!
Presented by VintageKeepsakeTrunk at Artfire, this doll is incredible.

She can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=284354

Here we have a Primitive Folk Art Americana Doll that I have fondly named "Lady Liberty". This piece would display nicely handing on the wall or sitting in a chair. She measures approximately 32 in tall and 12 in wide.

I have created Lady Liberty in the primitive fashion to give her that time-worn look. Her round head body is sewn from coffee-vanilla stained muslin with wired poseable arms, needle-sculpted fingers, pinch-stitched nose and brows. Her eyes are drawn with artist pencils and her rose bud mouth is painted red. Chocolate brown dyed sheeps wool is needle-felted in place for her hair. I have painted on her sanded red shoes and added tiny Mother of Pearl buttons for buckles.

Her dress is sewn from navy blue cotton with printed creamy stars with an over skirt of Americana print stripe in cream, navy and country red sprinkled with gold stars. The fabric has a touch of metallic gold sparkle to give it shine. I have embellished the neckline, hem and sleeves with a decorative tan machine stitching and dipped the dress in a coffee-vanilla aging solution.

Her coordinating cone hat is cut from stiffened star fabric and bordered with the sparkling stripe fabric. She holds a set of two Firecrackers that I have painted red white, and blue over stained muslin and added vintage tinsel to the natural jute wick. The patriotic Pinwheel that is stitched into her other hand has hand-painted red stripes on coffee-stained muslin backed with navy and cream star fabric with a stained wooden button at the center.

I have given this piece a primitive tag, aged with coffee-vanilla-cinnamon stain, that I have carefully burnt the edges with a flame and topped it with a nostalgic print of a vintage greeting card showing a Vintage little boy dressed as Uncle Sam holding a flag and standing by a canon and firecrackers.

I have lovingly made this piece using adaptations of a pattern designed by Karen Walker of Prim & Proper Folks.

This design will come to you dated, signed and tagged with my own label Collectibles by Joan which states The Handcrafting and Time Invested in this Piece are its Own Mark of Quality.

Enjoy your 4th!!!!!
Hugs,
Barb

A tribute to the Red, White and Blue

Blessings ....
A quiet scene with a sheep pear, saltbox and the American Flag reminds of the blessings we all enjoy living in this country. Thanks to Primgal for bringing this beautiful piece of Americana art

You can see it at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=213856

Prim gal has been gearing up for summer and loves to change her mousepads out for the seasons, so this is one that I did for this summer. It measures 9"x7" and is 1/4" thick giving you lots of mouse room. I painted the background black, and then added lots of summertime detail. We have the American flag,pear,saltbox,sheep, watermelon, and crow. This is a Terrye French design. After painting it was sealed several times with a very durable sealer, so it will clean up nicely with just a damp cloth.

Enjoy!!!

and Hugs,
Barb

Getting ready for the 4th!!!!!!

Uncle Sam and the 4th of July, fireworks and all!!!

Timeless Uncle Sam is perfect for the 4th and all year round.

Offered by monniebeanfolkart, you can see this great piece of Americana Folk Art at :
http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=242805

Barn board painting, 15 inches long, by 10 inches wide. Sealed with a matte varnish, and ready to hang with a sawtooth hanger on back. Signed and dated.

Enjoy your 4th with art from Artfire!!!!!!

Hugs,
Barb

Hurray for the Red, White and Blue!!!!!!!!!!

What a wonderful way to help celebrate the 4th of July!!!!!

Presented by Vintage Keepsake Trunk, this Americana Candle Lamp is an appropriate tribute to the upcoming holiday. Made today but reminiscent of the past, it is a beautiful addition to any home this and many other holidays and seasons.

The artist offers the following: Here we have a Primitive Folk Art Americana Candle Lamp placed in an Uncle Sam Hat. This piece would display nicely as a centerpiece, shelf sitter, or placed on a bureau, table or halltree during the July 4th holiday or year round in your Americana decor home. It measures approximately 2 in tall and 13 in wide and 8 in deep.

I have created this piece in the primitive fashion to give it that time-worn look....heavily grubbied. The USA hat is sewn from muslin and quilted around the crown with vertical patches and stained with my coffee-vanilla stain. The stripes are then painted red, white and navy blue and the brim and hat band are painted navy blue. After baking in the oven, the hat is gently sanded and grubbied with a coffee-vanilla-cinnamon sludge, sprinkled with cinnamon and baked again.

Inside the hat, I placed an electric silicone candle lamp adhered to floral foam and ran the cord out the back of the hat. The cord has an on-off control so that it does not have to be unplugged to turn it off. An arrangement of fresh Sweet Annie dried floral and red pip berries are nestled into a bed of green smagnum moss. I have printed out the Declaration of Independence on parchment colored paper, stained it with the coffee-vanilla solution and carefully burnt the edges with a flame. I then rolled it into a scroll and placed it in the hat.

Four American flags were cut from muslin and each hand-painted with red and white stripes and a navy blue square to hold the stars. The stars are cross-stitched by hand with ecru floss. The flags were then sanded and grubbied with coffee-vanilla-cinnamon followed with a sprinkling of cinnamon. Each flag is adhered to a stained dowel and glued into the floral foam.

A nostalgic vintage postcard image was adhered to cardboard, carefully burned the edges and adhered to a dowel as a pick. I have wired a rusty tin Prim star to heavy twisted rusty wire as a pick. A rusty bell is pinned to the front of the hat with a rusty safety pin. More smagnum moss was adhered to the bottom of the hat along the front. Cinnamon was adhered to the edges of the hat brim to give it that grungy appearance.

This piece has been lovingly made by me using a pattern designed by The Old Glory Company.
This design will come to you dated, signed and tagged with my own label.


You can see this item at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=284138

Happy 4th to all!!!!

Hugs, Barb

Just wanted to let you know.....

I truly enjoy sharing the wonderful folk art and primitives that are on Artfire, but just had to take a break for a few days. With one son graduating from North Central, one going back for summer school at NIU, dear daughter enrolling at the NIU for next fall, son and girlfriend coming home for the weekend and regular farm work, I just had to take some time for family and farm......

It felt great to put the house in order and plan the rest of the summer. I actually took time to paint the mural in the entry way which I will put on another blog this week. Plus the dry sink in the bathroom actually got some much needed attention! Oh, to take this barn back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. Well, we are back on track for getting the day to day things done around here. Yea!!!!!! See you on the other blogs and its good to be back.

Will start featuring wonderful folk art and primitives from Artfire tomorrow!!!!!

Hugs,
Barb
The photo above is a looking down the driveway from my home to the road. I think it is so beautiful here and wanted to share with you.

Lemonade in the Hot Summertime!!!!!!

It's the sweet olde summertime!!! Here the temperatures are in the 90s now. A bit early for that! But it is summer. It is time to sit on the front porch and sip some lemonade in the heat of the day.

Artfire artist anameade of The Olde Country Crow offers this wonderfully appreciated set of signs for the season.

These can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=265706
Up for bids is this cute little summer piece. This block trio measures bottom to top 8, 6, 4 1/2, & Top block 3 1/2 x 4. This set has been painted pale yellow white and black. It has been sanded to give it that primitive look.

Time some time to relax and unwind at Artifre and check this and other great items for you and your home at Artfire Folk Art and Primitives. http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=categories&main_cat_id=108

Enjoy the sweet sometime!

Hugs,
Barb

Wonderful Workmanship!!!

New to Artfire!!!!!
This is a wonderful example of old school workmanship and nearly a lost art!
You can see this and other wonderful pieces at:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=272996

The artist explains his work:

Before matches were introduced in 1830, a fire would have been started with flint and steel. This unit would have contained flint, steel, charcloth, tinder(strips of cloth), a candle stub and a dome shaped extinguisher.
The flint, steel, cloth, and candle stub are not included. This is a great item for living history reenactors!
Although it is shown in natural tin, it is available in your choice of finishes.
It measures 5.5"w x 3.25"h.


Available finishes include:
The Antique finish simulates aged tinware. It is hand rubbed to highlight the patina and coated with a metal paste wax to give the metal a soft sheen. An occasional dusting with a soft cloth is all that is needed.

The Rust finish is actually a painting technique. Each piece is primed and painted to give the feel of real rust. It has the appearance of rust without the devastating effects. Please clean with a soft dry cloth.

My Natural tin finish is the look of shiny tinware when new. Each item is washed and hand polished. Over the years, the tinware will develop a rich patina. Clean with a soft dry cloth.


Please let me know your preferred finish.

Thank you,
The Village Tinner

Chinese Ethnic Dolls

This just seemed perfect today.

Dave and I just said good bye the a very sweet Chinese exchange student and took her back to her host family last night. Today she returns to Beijing. There were many tears and hugs. Dave and friends took her to see Galena and the Mississippi. They also spent time in Wisconsin in Madison. It is amazing how much you can come to think a person in such a short time. I believe this friendship will last a long time. Thank heaven for email. Cherry, we will miss you.and talk to you soon. Hugs to a wonderful young woman.

Anyway these dolls are offered and shipped form Hong Kong.

Handmade Chinese Ethnic-Minority Dolls

A collection of 5 dolls representing 5 different ethnic minorities in China. All are decorated with beautiful and colorful costumes, headdresses with tassels of their individual tribe.

All wooden dolls are handmade with high quality and meticulous detail.

Great for living room decoration, gifts or simply for your collection.

All products are produced by local professionals in the Yunnan Province of China in order to keep the cost at a minimum.

Stands 14cm - 15.5 cm ( 5.5 inch - 6 inch)

Other items are available, please contact me at hkland2009@gmail.com
if you have any specific request/questions.


Thank you!!

they can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=204074

Just a note. I have contacted this Artfire contributor and suggested the they get a hold of Artfire to finish putting their shop together. It is lacking payment method, etc. It can be difficult getting acquainted with new avenues to sell, and I wish them luck.

Hugs Barb

Beautiful Doll on Artfire

This is a beautiful doll available on Artfire. I truly like her face and especially her eyes.
Take a peek at her, yourself on:
http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=179442

The artist is wooden wishes,-homepsun stitches and describes this piece of art as:

Welcome, this lady is such a piece of art. She is approximately 20" tall. I used muslin to make this sweet doll and her little blue bird and ONLY the best quality quilt shoppe material. She has been painted and sanded. I've given her pretty blue bird wings that coordinate with her skirt. Her shirt sleeves are oversized buttons that go beautifully with her brown multi-colored polka dot skirt, these buttons also give her adjustable arms. I've handpainted her shoes and socks and her face has been painted and shaded layered over top of a piece of the same material used for her skirt. She was such a delight to create and turned out really neat, I just love her. I would like to thank Nanny Norton Prims for the easy to use pattern. This Doll is a HAND CRAFTED ITEM for DECORATIVE PURPOSES ONLY and is NOT a TOY.

Enjoy this fine piece of art.

Hugs, Barb

Giving Primitive Art Modern Usefulness !!!!

Love this beautiful hand painted mouse pad. It is a wonderful way to add the warm old look toa modern setting and use.

Primgal has made this available on Artfire and you really should check it out.

"This mousepad would fit into any primitive or country decor.........great gift idea for those that love to hook rugs, or just love the primitive touch to a room. This mousepad measures 9"X7 inches giving you a wonderful work surface, and they work with any type mouse.

The background has been painted a medium tan and then antiqued for a wonderful primitive appearance. I have painted a black sheep, willow tree, and across the top the words read "Black Sheep Wool Co." After painting it has received several coats of sealer so that it stands up to constant use, and it cleans easily with a damp cloth. Please do not immerse in water though."

You can see this great item at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=129029

She does wonderful work and I know you will enjoy all of the thing she offers.

Hugs,
Barb

Heart on Laddle Pinkeep

A beautiful addition to any home. Beautiful "hearts" are always great to have around. This just makes me think of kindness, warmth and love when I look at at. Maybe I need that after a week on no sleep and chaos. But then everyone could use more serenity in their lives.

This pin keep is presented by OldeAnnieArts at Artfire.

About the pinkeep:

This is a unique one of a kind pin keep. I took an old flat-bowl ladle and added Spanish moss and a wispy cream pip berry wreath. The wreath also has rusty stars attached to it. Atop the wreath I have attached a stuffed heart made from a burgundy/pink print cotton fabric. Attached to the heart are two rusty safety pins, three rusty T-pins and two buttons. On the wood handle I have tied a raggedy stained cheesecloth bow. The piece hangs nicely by a rusty wire star loop or can prop nicely on a shelf or cupboard. Measures 7 inches wide by 11 inches tall.

Stop by to see this and more at:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=177164

I'm finally back-Dave's Graduation is Finished!!!!

It has been a long but wonderful week. Son #2 has graduated from college. Yea!!!!!!!

I will post more pics later, but the kids ran off with my camera (which has many,many graduation pics) to Galena yesterday. One of Dave's friends from China wanted to see the Mississippi before she returns to Shanghai later this week. She is staying with us and my parents for a few days to see some more of the United States. Really sweet girl! Today they are off to Madison, WI to see more sights. Hope to have the camera back this evening.

Big hugs from a very proud and happy mom,
Barb

I'm Back....

I took a couple of days off for my son's graduation. There is still more to do but it is back to a dull roar here!

I want to thank the people at Blockhead Radio for featuring my shop on their website!
Please take a look at the this site and enjoy it. It has many things to offer.
http://blockheadradiolive.com/


Today's featured item is a wonderful prim dress from PrimPickins on Artfire.

The artist describes the dress:

This is a hamdmade prairie dress, measures about 25 inches in length. I used a cotton material in a brown & cream color. The collar is a piece of vintage doily and there are three mismatched vintage colored buttons down the bodice. I filled the pocket with some dried florals, a cinnamon stick and pip berries. Then I added a grungy tag that says PRAIRIE and has a tiny skeleton key attached. The hanger was made using a stick from my yard and some wire.

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

I would say my inspiration comes from a love of old time stuff, I think I was born in the wrong century LOL I am intrigued by vintage things, clothing, housewares, furniture. I was lucky enough to find a beautiful old Hoosier cabinet in N.C. and it now proudly sits in my Florida home . I love going junking to find new treasures for it and my home.

To see this and more fine offering from Prim Pickins, go to:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=156179

Hugs,

Barb

Finally Friday !!!!!! Time for Beach

It may not be warm enough to swim here, but the weather is perfect for taking some time to sit on the dock and enjoy the cool spring breezes, watch the water and take some tome to just "be."

This sign is in to beautiful soft tones of a spring day. A gentle green and calming pink and white flowers.

This sign is presented by Artfire artist Country Workshop.
The sign is described as: Beach House sign painted on a worn sage finish with hand painted roses and daisies.

Sign is made of ½ inch mdf (medex), an exterior grade building material which won't warp or crack due to weather and painting is sealed so this is ready to be hung outside if desired.

Sign measures 6 x 14 inches

Each sign is cut to shape and painted with acrylic paint and sanded. The design is then painted on, each individually and each is a little different. A final top coat of a catalyzed varnish is applied and the sign is ready to go. A key-hole slot is cut in the back for hanging on a nail or screw.

You can see it at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=206279

So take some time and relax this weekend and maybe do it on sitting on the dock, next to the bay or lake or river or anywhere you can find to take in the calming colors and sounds of water.

Have a great weekend and hugs,
Barb

Spring has been late in arriving here but now every morning, there are so many welcoming sounds from them. It starts the day right to hear the birds outside. Makes you ready to get tto work--they are a real motivator!
This is a beautiful hand painted birds presented by digiliodesigns on Artfire.

It is described as:

This is a print of a painting of mine that I did in acrylic on wood. This is printed on a high quality Strathmore paper using archival quality inks. The paper measures 8.5" x 11" and the print itself is 5" x 5".
This will be shipped in a sturdy envelope with a backing board in a clear bag.
The frame is for picture purposes only to show how it looks framed. A mat really isn't necessary.
It will be signed and dated in pencil.

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

This handsome red bird has been inspired by old Pennsylvania Fraktur paintings. I just love the birds and flowers in their paintings!

Take some time to stop in and look at it at

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=247192

Have a great and productive Thursday.

Hugs,
Barb

Dolls, Dolls, so many great prim dolls!!!!!!

I love the date on this doll. She truly looks as if she has been found in an old cabin, tucked away in a safe place. That date is during the period my great grandfather, Julius Martin Kringle, (yes the name is of Santa fame) that he homesteaded in Minnesota and Iowa. He drove a cover wagon "out west" to those states at the age of 14.

This doll is a lovely reminder of the past which is so dear to many of us.

She was created by HeartofTexasPrims on Artfire.

She is describes as: Here for you is a cute primitive seed bag prairie doll
ornie for your collection in preserving our heritage.

Super Prim! This doll is made of coffee and vanilla stained muslin and set out in the sun to dry. She is about 8 1/2" high and smells wonderful!

In making her, I stitched burlap for the nose. Old time looking fabric which was stained in coffee is fitted for her prim dress and her seed bag is stained as well. The bag has a draw string that is tied in a knot with a rusty safety pin. The year '1873' is primitively stitched to the bottom of the bag. Doll can be taken out of her seed bag. I stitched some lace that was dipped in coffee around her head.

From a pattern by SweetPeas Primitives.

You can see her at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=67354

Please take a look and enjoy!!!!

Hugs,
Barb

Beautiful Mattie MayWall Doll for every prim home.

A new way to fly the flag.......Let Mattie May do it!!!!

Love this doll.

She was created by kitschnsinkstudio on Artfire.

She is described as:

Mattie May is now ready to adorn your home during the upcoming Patriotic holidays or year round for a touch of Americana.
She is a wall Art-doll, so she has no legs..She measures from the tip of her hat, to the hem of her skirt, 32 inches tall, and 12 inches wide..She has a loop on the back for hanging.
She has a hand-stitched face, and is perfectly aged with a light waxed finish..
For Home Decor, not intended for children..
Pattern by Folk and Whimsy

Love her and oh so prim..

See her at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=235147

Have a great Tuesday!!!!!

Hugs,
Barb

A sign to remember Dad all year long!!!

Warm words to describe the wonderful roll fathers fill in our lives.

LittleTouchDesigns offers this sign to decorate your home for dad all year long.

The artist describes this sign as:

What a great gift for Dad! He'll be proud to set this on his desk or dresser as a reminder of his awesomeness!

Such a simple design and yet so meaningful.

Pine, varnished and distressed, painted antique white with FATHER hand-painted in dark brown. Also in dark brown are the words leader, protector, provider, advisor, servant, teacher, encourager, friend. Two barn-red hand-painted stars give this a special touch.

Measures approximately 7" long x 2.5" tall x 1/2"

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

Father's Day is coming up. This little guy is a lot better than giving Dad just a card, or another tie. This is something he can keep forever.

This sign is available for $8 and you can see it at:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=209641

Plan now for a great Father's Day!!!!

Hugs,
Barb

A week dedicated to the Dads!!!!

Father's Day is approaching in the US and there is time to order that perfect gift for the dad in your life. This week we will concentrate on items he most assuredly will enjoy having in his life.

So join us as we reveal those special items for Dad this week and order in time for him to have it on June 21!!!!!!

The theme is still flowers!

As I continue working on the gardens in and around the house, flowers are on my mind. Today I will be adding some Bleeding Hearts, Columbine, Jacob's Ladder, and other old time favorites.

We have two days of sunshine. Must make hay while the sunshines! lol

So, with this in mind, I found a beautiful hand painted wooden bowl with spring flowers and a happy rabbit romping through them. It on Artfire and presented byBRozypalcrafts.

She describes the item as:
This is a very nice wood bowl which I have hand painted, using a Jane Guthrie design.

It is a ten inch bowl. The bowl should be hand washed with a solf cloth.

I have the bowl on consignment; so please contact me for availability.

It can be seen at http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=211131

Have a wonderful Saturday and enjoy the sunshine.

Hugs, Barb

More Flowers for Springtime!

Today I will actually get out to plant some flowers. The ground is drying up enough to work with. Yea!!!! The plants in the greenhouse are so ready to be outside!

So with flowers still on my mind, I found these beautiful poppies on Artifre. They are by HuckleberryArts and should help put you in a good mood today.

They are described as: Original Freehand painting on 6x6 canvas panel with acrylics and sealed

Signed numbered 1/1 and dated on back

This is the original!!!!!

You can see these beautiful flowers at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=234513

Enjoy your Friday and take some time to stop and smell the flowers!

Hugs,
Barb

Finally a day with some sunshine!!!!

To celebrate some sun----the rain is gone for a while--- we can all enjoy the relaxing spring colors in these ornies. Maybe soon, some of the flowers in my garden will finally be up and add to the colors around here.

These are presented on Artfire by WilmasWimzees.

She describes them as:

These prim and shabby bowl fillers are approx. 5 inches. They are made with coordinating pink fabrics that I tea stained for a great out of that old trunk appeal.
You will receive 3 of them. One embellished flower and heart, and one plain heart. They are embellished with decorative fringe and vintage buttons.
You will also receive the bookmark, which is printed on both sides.

They would go so well in a bowl or on a shelf. You could tuck them in that old cupboard for a great cottage chic look.

These were created with a pattern by prairie harvest arts. Bookmark graphic from ewenmeprintables.com

You can see them at:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=187556


Have a great Thursday..
Hugs,
Barb

Sending Flowers to you on a Rainy Day

It's been say rainy and overcast her the past few days in our area. This arrangement of prim flowers made this grey morning a little brighter, and we truly need that here.

It is brought to you by Artfire artist VintageKeepsakeTrunk ,

She describes it as: Here we have a Primitive Folk Art Grapevine Watering Can with Americana Yoyo Florals. This piece would display nicely as a centerpiece, shelf sitter, or placed on a bureau, table or halltree. It measures approximately 15" tall and 13"wide and 6" deep. This would also make a wonderful house-warming gift that is everlasting and never withers.

I have created this floral piece in the primitive fashion to give it that time-worn look. Each flower is hand-stitched into a nostalgic "yoyo" fabric circle, reminiscent of the olde fashioned yoyo quilts. Each flower is made from a different, but coordinating Americana print fabric in navy, rusty red, and cream stars and stripes designs. I have sewn a large rusty red lucite button with navy floss at the center of each flower. The fabric leaves are sewn from a hunter green leaf print fabric layered with interfacing and wire is inserted to make them poseable. The wire stems are wrapped in floral tape and then anchored into floral foam covered with spanish moss.

The eight yoyo flowers are arranged in a natural grapevine twig watering can wrapped with a coordinating patriotic flag fabric bow that is torn and tied in the front and embellished with another large rusty red button.

I have given this piece a primitive tag, aged with coffee-vanilla-cinnamon stain that I have carefully burnt the edges with a flame and topped it with a nostalgic print of a vintage greeting card showing a Vintage boy holding an American Flag with an olde cannon and his fire crackers that says "4th of July".

This piece has been lovingly made by me as my own concept and design and no pattern was used.

This design will come to you dated, signed and tagged with my own label Collectibles by Joan which states The Handcrafting and Time Invested in this Piece are its Own Mark of Quality.

You can see it at: http://wwww.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=236312

This item would be uplifting for everyday use and also for those Red, White and Blue Holidays throughout the year.

Hugs,
Barb

Perfect for the birds and your yard!!!!

Inviting for the birds and beautiful for your yard! I hope everyone can hear the birds in the morning. They are especially "talkative" in the morning here. It is a beautiful way to start the day.

This piece was created by Artfire artist barnwood4u who describes as follows: Awesome rustic barnwood birdhouse with Kentucky license plate roof. 13" tall at peak, 5 1/4"
wide and almost 5" deep. The knots on the front of this bird house are really eyecatching. Rusty nail perch salvaged from our barnwood and baling wire hanger from a local horsewoman complete this birdhouse.

Great Father's day gift or birthday gift!

We will ship direct to your friends and relatives if you would like to purchase this as a gift for that special someone!

Free shipping

You can see and more at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=224298


Have a wonderful week and take some time to listen to the birds.

Hugs,
Barb

Memorial Day Weekend

This weekend is a time of picnics and celebrations.and also a time for reflection and remembrance.

In honor of this holiday we are going Red, White and Blue for the next few days.

This is a floor cloth that is perfect for an Americana theme.

A floorcloth was used in early American homes and is considered a traditional folk art.

This piece was created by Artfire artist, sandboxart.

This is a "wonderful little country painting for your dollhouse wee folk or your hitty doll. any questions about doll please contact. This is an ooak painting and will not be repeated or printed. you will always receive an original painting. only paint brushes are ever used.
Please see me at … sandboxart.etsy.com…and on ebay for more paintings and vintage items. Member CDHM.ORG. Most are painted to have an aged vintage look."

It can be seen at: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=ViewListing&product_id=139570

Have a happy and safe Memorial Day Weekend.

Hugs,
Barb

A Touch of Old Europe- today

CUP OF KINDNESS GOURD GIRL LAMP

This is such a great piece. I appreciate the use of natural materials, which folk and primitive art do constantly, and this just was so bright and cheerful this morning. I couldn't resist.

The detail in the painting is excellent and this is an interesting combination of the traditional look of the nesting dolls with a slightly more modern take.

Imagine the glow coming from the stars on a quiet summer night!

I saw this gourd this morning and it made me smile, and if you saw the to-do list for today, you would understand the need to start the day smiling. I will try hard to keep to that way. (Aside from regular farm chores, son #2 is coming home for the weekend- that's good! Perfectionist DD is getting ready for a 5 day camping trip to do medieval re-enacting-very stressful. The shearer for the sheep is finally coming about a month late. He won't do llamas. The guys continue to finish taking down trees -many , many trees- left partially down by spring storms. There is so much more.....) Time for that cup of tea and spend a few more moments enjoying this "happy" gourd.

This gourd is presented by sixsproutdesigns on Artfire.

This reminds me of the Romanian nesting dolls. This hard shelled, dried gourd is huge and beautiful. It stands over a foot tall and I have hand carved and hand painted it. All the paint and varnish are non toxic and have no VOC's so it is earth-friendly and the canvas is a GOURD! She has a light that is made to fit in the back and plug in to make her cut outs glow from stars and a heart and the steam from the tea pot. This is One Of A Kind.

Take a look at this lovely item. I am sure it will make you smile also.

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=ViewListing&product_id=93951

Happy Thursday!!!!

Hugs,
Barb