Piccadilly Post

Two Takes on CPS 254

2012-03-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

Caged Bird Sings
"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song."
Vintage book page, sheet music, and seed beads, recycled corrugated packing, denim, button, and snaps, K & Company Julianne patterned papers, Prima paper flowers, DMC embroidery floss, Sizzix Tim Holtz dies, Canvas Corp kraft card base and envelope. CPS 254

Enjoy the Ride/Joy Ride
"Life is a journey, not a destination. Happy Birthday."
Vintage bus ticket, twill tape, and buttonhole gimp, Cosmo Cricket Joy Ride patterned papers and button, Papertrey Ink cardstock and tag die, Dymo label. CPS 254

I'm still here! I realize I have been rather quiet both on the blogging front and the letter-writing front.

I'm currently obsessed with creating cards for spring and masculine birthdays, combining my collection of new and vintage supplies into pleasing designs, and updating my collection of card sketches (done).

My love-hate relationship with my old computer printer came to an end this week when it finally kicked the bucket. My sweet husband now had his answer for what to give me for my birthday! Thank you!

My Favorite Birthday Card

2012-02-26T18:11:00.004-05:00

"We didn't come here to fit in.
We came here to be who we are.
We didn't come here to work.
We came here to live our dreams.
We didn't come here for the stuff.
We came here to love each other.
We didn't come here by accident.
We each came here with a purpose
that is uniquely our own.

Be
Dream
Love
Thrive

Always."

I received many beautiful birthday cards this year, but this is my favorite.
It almost made me cry. Thank you, Karen.

Arte Correo

2012-02-22T14:14:00.005-05:00

Textured collage and envelope from Cernjul Viviana
Traveled from Argentina 12 Jan 2012 to USA 13 Feb 2012

Fluxus collage and envelope from Cernjul Viviana
Traveled from Argentina 11 Feb 2012 to USA 22 Feb 2012

Muchas gracias, mi amiga de correo.
Espero que reciba pronto mi primera respuesta.

I am, as always, late in posting most of the wonderful mail I receive. I replied to the first collage on February 18, and then another beautiful work arrived in my mailbox today. The travel time of mail fascinates me. I suppose its variability is part of the mystery and allure of corresponding by post, particularly overseas. (Unfortunately, this phenomena does not excuse the irregularity of my blog posts!)

Blue ATC Buddy Jam

2012-02-21T09:48:00.004-05:00

C.Z., a new mail art friend, introduced me to ATC Buddy Jams, where two artists collaborate to create two identical artist trading cards and each keeps one finished card. I wanted to try my hand at ATCs for some time, but this was the nudge I needed to get started. (Sometimes getting started is the hardest part!)

C.Z. sent the above cards with the mason jar stamped in blue, and I filled them with blue bits from my overflowing workspace. I like that they are mirror images. I returned the card shown on the left to C.Z. and kept the one on the right (I had to fudge the plastic tag; I colored a white one with a blue Sharpie.) I was pleased with the results and so was C.Z. We're working on another set.

Many thanks to new friends for new ideas and inspiration!

Mail From the Heart

2012-02-14T09:45:00.000-05:00

My love notes are all buttoned up,

hand-stitched with love,

and they make my heart sing.

Happy Valentine's Day!
May it be filled with sweet mail and semi-sweet chocolate!

Found & Shared: Vintage Valentine

2012-02-13T21:40:00.004-05:00

I couldn't resist this lovely vintage Valentine, slightly used, from Creative Reuse. I sent it down under to someone special who posted about her vintage Valentine project the very day I found this card. I think the girl on the card bears a resemblance to that sweet someone!

(Looking at the card again got me thinking: I don't think I have ever dropped anything heart-shaped directly in the mail! I should give it a try!)

Big Postal Love

2012-02-13T13:26:00.004-05:00

Six--yes, six--beautiful pieces of personal and artistic mail in my postbox today, from as near as my home state of PA and as far as Argentina. Thank you, my friends, for your postal love! All is quiet here now, so I will carefully open them and savor each Real Mail moment! Truly, the mailbox is the museum. Thank you for sending the world to my door.

A Happy Little Card

2012-02-11T21:16:00.001-05:00

I managed to start this post months ago but never published it.
Not exactly a valentine, but here's a little bit of cheer on a blustery evening.

Created especially for Emma

I still have a few more purchased valentines I hope to send. I can't decide if I will write them tonight or just curl up with one of the books from my ever-growing pile.

I just received two unexpected gifts of books by post, and I really want to read at least bits of them before I respond to the generous senders. These books are the sort to be savored...PJs, a warm blanket, a cup of tea; this sounds like the way to go. It's a good night to be cozy!

My Lumpy Valentines

2012-02-10T23:11:00.000-05:00

Ah, my lumpy Valentines. Look at those huge buttons and wooden hearts. I have to add some of my vintage 20-cent Love stamps to the new ones to cover the extra weight and bulk. I was thrilled to see the new Love stamps featured on one of my favorite design blogs, Felt & Wire.

These were the first few cards I made this year. They will finally go into the mail tomorrow, carrying my love and warm wishes through the post to family and friends, far and near.

I ended up making 22 designed Valentine cards, usually in a series of four (some lumpier than these!) as well as 18 packets of papery goodness to share. Many will travel to family and friends who don't often write back. I'm hoping the packets will encourage some of them to share the mail love, not necessarily with me, but with anyone they know who might benefit from a little something special in their mailbox.

My papery packets included a puzzle purse I learned to fold at LancasterHistory.org while I was visiting with them and their patrons on First Friday to promote the Lancaster County stamp. You can view their Love Letters exhibit online. The puzzle purse was also mentioned over on Red Letter Day. Be warned, once you start folding, you may not be able to stop!

While you are preparing your love letters for the mail, you could give a listen to this lovely interview with the talented Donovan Beeson of Letter Writers Alliance and the INtangible blog fame. Enjoy!

Recycled Cross Stitch Card

2012-02-05T18:33:00.003-05:00

We visited Lancaster Creative Reuse on First Friday and again yesterday to close out the Mail Art celebration in honor of the Lancaster County postage stamp. It was such a pleasure to work with them; I certainly hope to do it again in the future. Tina and Vanessa were the lucky winners of Deluxe Travel Mail Art Kits. While we were there yesterday, the girls all worked on projects, my hubby was kind enough to corral the little one, and I did a little more shopping (it's addictive since the selection is constantly changing.)

One of my finds was a stained cross stitch piece made up of four smaller designs for a mere 30 cents. I brought it home and washed it, then tea stained it to even out the coloring. I separated the four smaller elements to use as focal points on cards. (I wish I had scanned it before I cut it!) I chose Card Patterns Sketch 150 and spent some time flipping through my stash of K&Company patterned papers to match colors and styles.

I originally had a light neutral solid paper at the top, but it needed a little something more. I dug out some of the 1840s bank ledger paper, and I liked the look of it. I may try one with an old dictionary page in place of the ledger paper. Papertrey Ink's Ocean Tides was a perfect match to the darker green stitching.

I realized I left a few of my mail art samples behind at Creative Reuse. Oh well, I guess I'll just have to go back to collect them!

Incoming Dragons!

2012-02-02T09:12:00.003-05:00

Not one, but two fascinating dragon postcards from thesnailmailer in reply to my Year of the Dragon packet. These cards were created by the Foreign Languages Press Beijing China but mailed in the US with the beautiful Lunar New Year stamps. Many thanks!

Baby Shower Invitations

2012-01-30T19:08:00.003-05:00

I was pleased to be asked by a neighbor to create handcrafted baby shower invitations for her son and his wife. With just a little information--it's a boy, the parents-to-be like birds, the grandma-to-be (my neighbor) works for the postal service, and I need to make 30--these are my three initial samples.

#1 Traditional, calm, formal pastels

#2 Bright, bold , cute, and fun

#3 Postal theme, because I couldn't resist

And she chose, with no changes, #3! I almost couldn't believe it! She liked my use of security envelope paper. I managed to curb my use of lumpy embellishments to avoid surcharge postage. I spent quiet time today prepping all the parts, so I think I'm ready to begin assembly tonight or tomorrow.

Mail Art Answered

2012-01-29T15:09:00.005-05:00

Some wonderful mail art I received in December but never posted.
I'm finally getting around to sending proper thank yous!
From Wenchkin, Angie & Snooky, and Mary Has Sound

A few altered postcards I created while cleaning off my desk
and a recycled printing sample collage in a CD envelope.
All will ship out tomorrow!

Year of the Dragon

2012-01-23T16:52:00.001-05:00

I mailed out my Lunar New Year mail art projects today with the new dragon stamps. I don't want to give too much away, but I packaged most of my mysterious bundles in my favorite PaperSource envelopes, made from "Slow Boat to China" paper. Luckily, I completed most of these packets before all my postal activities last week commenced.

The project itself was inspired by and a homage to Nick Bantock, perhaps my favorite contemporary mixed media artist. His famous Griffin and Sabine books were my first exposure to mail-as-art. My favorite book of his is "The Museum at Purgatory." His juxtaposition of fact and fiction, the actual and the altered, always intrigues me. He creates worlds with such detail, you fall under their spell, and you can no longer separate real from imagined, nor do you want to. That is true artistry.

Lancaster Sunday News Article

2012-01-22T19:00:00.002-05:00

The Lancaster County, Pennsylvania stamp and I made the front page of the Lancaster Sunday News today, with a photo on page four. You can read the full article here:

She puts her stamp on this first day issue

Last week was crazy busy and a lot of work, but it was worth it to be able to commemorate the new stamp and share my love of Real Mail with others in my community. Thank you all for your encouragement and support!

The Wild Stamp Chase

2012-01-21T11:32:00.006-05:00

Stamp description sheet with postage stamp and first day cancel

My unofficial Lancaster County postage stamp first day of issue activities officially began yesterday morning at 7:45am, when I received a call from my friend at the Rohrerstown Post Office confirming that the stamps were only available at the Harrisburg Pike Main Office. I arranged to meet the photographer from Lancaster Newspapers there at 9am to purchase my first sheet of stamps and request some first day of issue hand cancels on postcards to send and stamp display sheets I created to give and keep. I stopped off at the craft store for a frame before heading over to the Rohrerstown Post Office to present them with a framed sheet as a thank you for all their help and encouragement. I left a few of the goodie bags I made for them to give to anyone asking to purchase the new stamp.

Quilted Postcard from Naomi (nhigh) Mailart365 #10/366 Quarter Wheel

I arrived home to find this beautiful card in my mailbox! I tucked it in my Letter Writers Alliance bag to use as an example during the rest of the day's activities. After a few phone calls and some lunch, the little one and I were off again to pick up my dad and head over to the Lancaster County Visitors Center to investigate the mysterious Facebook post I discovered late Thursday afternoon (http://www.facebook.com/events/321045844602407/) The women at the desk were very helpful, but knew nothing of a ceremony and were unaware of the stamp's release. One of the women was a retired Postmaster from Gordonville, PA, and she made a few inquiries by phone to her contacts but was unable to get any more information. I shared what I knew and gave them a framed copy of the display sheet to share with visitors. Another stop at the craft store for more frames; this time I just bought all the black ones they had!

Home again for naptime and a few moments of quiet, so I could write up my remarks for the LancasterHistory.org lecture. I knew I needed to have something in front of me so I could share my thoughts coherently. The big girls had an early dismissal and my dear husband came home from work early so I could arrive at the lecture before 4pm for the social gathering. The women from LancasterHistory.org were very accomodating and many of the attendees were interested in seeing the stamp. My parents stopped by to congratulate me and snap a few photos.

My "Write Letters, Write History" display table at the LancasterHistory.org lecture.

Me (sporting my LWA Penpal Award) and my display

The lecture itself was very interesting; I feel like I haven't attended anything like that since college! I gave my little speech at the end, and it actually fit surprisingly well with the topic, as the lecture ended with a discussion of the speed of communication. (You can read my remarks in my previous post.) The framed stamp sheet went back to the LancasterHistory.org office for display to promote the stamp and their February First Friday "Love Letters" event, where I will again have the opportunity to share my postal passion.

One final stop at the Harrisburg Pike Post Office to request a few more first day of issue cancels; I gave away more of those display sheets than I originally planned, but I am grateful I had the chance to share it. I arrived home around 7pm tired but happy with the events of the day.

Next week, I will follow up with the Lancaster Public Library about hosting a letter-writing social and make sure Lancaster Creative Reuse has enough mail art zines and labels to last them through February First Friday. I anticipate a story in tomorrow's Lancaster Sunday News. On my to-do list this weekend? Relax, play in the snow, and get some more mail ready to send!

Lancaster County Postage Stamp Presentation

2012-01-20T19:34:00.006-05:00

This is the text of my presentation of the newly-released Lancaster County postage to the group gathered for a lecture titled From Frick's Lock To DuPont - How The Industrial Revolution Saved America. The response was positive, and I was grateful for the opportunity. I will recap the day's events in a separate post, but maybe tomorrow. It's been a busy day!

"Thank you to Melynda and Felice of LancasterHistory.org for offering me a few moments today to share my postal passion with you. I have no affiliation with the United States Postal Service, except as a patron, so I am here unofficially as a representative of the Letter Writers Alliance, the International Union of Mail Artists, and Postcrossing to introduce to you the new international rate postage stamp featuring a photograph of my home for almost 35 years, Lancaster County. I would like to read the Postal Service’s brief description of the stamp.

http://beyondtheperf.com/stamp-releases/lancaster-county-pennsylvania

I initially contacted LancasterHistoy.org last Friday after I learned there would be no official First Day of Issue Ceremony for this stamp. I had a love of letters, motivation, and a vague idea that I could somehow organize an event to properly recognize this small but beautiful piece of postal and Lancaster County history. I have always loved mail—everything about it intrigues me—pen and paper, postage and postmarks. Airmail is particularly fascinating with the added allure of foreign lands, the real or imagined mystery and romance. My grandma still has all the letters she exchanged with my grandpa during their engagement while he was stationed in the South Pacific during World War II. I am sure each of you here today has at least a few letters tucked away for safekeeping.

When you write a letter, you are writing a piece of personal history, whether you are reporting a once-in-a-lifetime event or your everyday activities. You are creating a record of your relationship with another person, you are giving them the gift of your time and yourself, a story no one but you can write. Personal and business correspondence of our relatives and those who go on to become figures of larger historical importance is one of the greatest resources we have for studying our personal and collective history. LancasterHistory.org boasts an extensive collection available for use in our research.

So many people lament that no one writes letters anymore, and I worry and wonder what future histories will look like when emails and tweets are the only remaining records of our communications. I certainly do not expect everyone to share my level of enthusiasm for Real Mail, as my parents and I came to call our cards and letters exchanged while I was away at college. But as lovers of history, I encourage you to make time this weekend to put pen to paper and share a piece of yourself with a family member or friend, and perhaps you will want to mail it off with the new Lancaster County postage stamp as well. Thank you."

UPDATE: Official Unofficial...

2012-01-19T21:56:00.003-05:00

It's been an interesting day here. I began the morning with vague plans for tomorrow, by early afternoon they were set, and after dinner, they were in shreds.

First, I found this interesting tidbit on Facebook during this afternoon's Google search:

Lancaster County First Day of Issue Ceremony
Public Event By USPS Community Connection
When Friday
Time 12:00pm until 3:00pm

Description Join us as we debut Lancaster County, the 2012 international rate stamp and Scenic American Landscape honoree!

501 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17602

Good grief! When was this decided? And who is this USPS Community Connection? Assuming my little one is up for an adventure, I guess we'll go see what this is all about!

An email after dinner alerted me that due to a delivery delay, the new Lancaster County stamps have not yet arrived at my local post office on Rohrerstown Road. (See, they definitely should not shut down Lancaster's processing facility.) The only location to receive them as of the end of business hours today is the Harrisburg Pike office. I will not be hurting myself to get there at 7:30AM when they commence retail sales. (I am not a morning person.) I hope to make my way there by nine, after I get in touch with the photographer from Lancaster Newspapers who expected to meet me at Rohrerstown at eight. (Are you following me here, because I'm not sure I am!) If and when the stamps arrive at Rohrerstown, I still plan to take my postal party there (see previous post.)

I need to go sort out my day and address a few more postcards.
Good night and good luck.

The Official Unofficial Stamp Ceremony

2012-01-19T14:56:00.006-05:00

Here's the deal: I will be at the Rohrerstown Branch Post Office, 153 Rohrerstown Rd.
Lancaster, PA 17603, tomorrow, Friday, January 20, 2012 when they open at 8am to purchase my first sheet Lancaster County postage stamps and to mail some extra-special first day of issue postcards. I will have postal goodies for those who purchase the new international rate stamps, and all attendees can sign up for the chance to a win a Deluxe Mail Art Travel Kit. The friendly clerks will happily hand-cancel upon request with their Lancaster Pennsylvania designation date stamper, and Lancaster Newspapers promised to send a photographer to the celebration.

Later that afternoon, I will present the stamp before a lecture given by LancasterHistory.org at the Manheim Township Library. Lancaster Creative Reuse will extend their Make Mail Art program through February First Friday, and LancasterHistory.org will feature "Love Letters" at their February First Friday event, giving me another opportunity to promote the Lancaster County stamp and my love of letters.

Three cheers for Real Mail!

Stamp Presentation on Friday

2012-01-18T13:40:00.006-05:00

I am slowly gathering responses to the emails I sent out concerning the new Lancaster County stamp, but I feel I am losing my focus and momentum. (It doesn't help having a kiddo home sick from school.)

I spoke with a reporter from Lancaster Newspapers yesterday afternoon, and he seemed interested in my story, as well as a follow-up with Lancaster Creative Reuse, so I hope they get some good press.

Today I spoke with LancasterHistory.org, but my mind was a jumble. She did offer me a display table and five minutes to present the new stamp at the social gathering before a lecture this Friday evening, and I accepted. Now I need to prepare for that. They may have a "Love Letters" theme for their First Friday display on February 3, so I may get a second chance to display the stamp and promote letter-writing, so I better get thinking!

I have never been a good public speaker. I prefer writing letters. I find it so much easier to squeeze my words through the tip of a pen than to try and tame them on my tongue.

Interested in attending? Here's the information:

Friday, January 20, Manheim Township Public Library 595 Granite Run Dr. Lancaster, PA 17601

4:00 pm - Social Gathering & Book signing of Abandoned Address - The Secret of Frick's Lock

4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Lecture: LancasterHistory.org & Manheim Township Public Library partner to offer From Frick's Lock To DuPont - How The Industrial Revolution Saved America presented by Gene Pisasale, author, historian and Delaware Humanities Forum speaker.

Hurry Up and Wait

2012-01-17T15:39:00.003-05:00

Well, I have contacted everyone in Lancaster I can think of concerning the Lancaster County postage stamp release. Now, it's just a waiting game I guess. While I wait, I'm hanging up flyers wherever I go. I also made up some goodie bags to share with anyone who joins me at the Rohrerstown Post Office to purchase the stamps this Friday morning.

My girls and I enjoyed a two-hour visit to Lancaster Creative Reuse yesterday morning. They are very excited about Mail Art Week. (Me too!) I just spoke with an employee of the Lancaster County Library, and while it's not feasible to hold a letter-writing social this week, there is interest in crafting a program for a future date.

I appreciate all the encouragement and support I've received on this project. Special thank yous to Donovan of the Letter Writers Alliance for her contributions, and to Su of TangleCrafts for sharing her creativity across the pond.

The postage stamp is such a small thing, but I believe it has the potential to make a big difference. If I don't stand up for what I believe, who will? And how can I expect others to care? If I don't do it now, it might be too late. I know I'm not going to save the world, but I can make it a little better, one stamp at a time.

Mail Art at Lancaster Creative Reuse!

2012-01-15T15:52:00.004-05:00

I am excited to announce Lancaster Creative Reuse will promote making mail art this week in honor of the Lancaster County stamp release! This is the perfect place for mail art creation. I encourage everyone to join in the fun! A big thank you to Andrea for her exuberant support. I hope this will be a great week for Real Mail in Lancaster!

No First Day of Issue Ceremony for Lancaster County Postage Stamp?

2012-01-13T15:28:00.005-05:00

I am hard at work to remedy that situation!

Thank you to Donovan of LWA and Deb at my local post office for all your encouragement!

Do you know any mail-lovers in Lancaster PA? Send them my way! I can use all the help I can get!

Letter to the Editors:

I have read with interest and concern the Lancaster Newspapers stories concerning the demise of the Postal Service, the swift death of letter writing, and the few editorials that followed.

As an avid letter-writer (16sparrows.com/LWA), Postcrosser (www.postcrossing.com), and mail artist (iuoma-network.ning.com), I was thrilled to see that a photograph of Lancaster Country would be featured on the new international rate postage stamp to be released on
Friday, January 20th. After speaking on several occasions with Debra at the Rohrerstown Post Office Branch, I was frustrated to learn that the Central PA District Office passed on the chance to have a First Day of Issue ceremony.

Lancaster County has been my home for all of my 35 years, and I am proud of its history and heritage. I am also a firm believer in Real Mail, sending letters, postcards, art, and interesting parcels every chance I get.

I am awaiting a reply from the Director of Education & Public Programs at LancasterHistory.org because Debra suggested they may be able to offer a space on Friday the 20th the celebrate the release of this beautiful stamp. I believe the local Post office missed out on an opportunity for much-needed good press, but perhaps you can help me support our local postal workers and commemorate a postage stamp that will send an image of Lancaster County all around the world.

I am willing and able to organize and lead a small celebration and to provide letter-writing supplies to attendees. I realize this is a last-minute request, but I am grateful for any assistance or advice you can offer.

Thank you kindly for your consideration.

And THANK YOU for sending Real Mail!

Bright Birthday MOJO 223

2012-01-10T14:31:00.004-05:00

My littlest flower turns two today. I am amazed.

I was just going to pull a card from my stash and personalize it a bit, but them I got inspired by the Mojo Monday card sketch and glitter chipboard flowers. My Sweetie Pie carried that bag of heart buttons (flower centers) for me at Goodwill, such a good helper. I'm curious to see if she remembers. She's such a sponge right now, soaking up new words and ideas every day.

I think my older girls were impressed I used a texting-type message on the inside. Tonight, cupcakes with sprinkles and presents wrapped in Sunday comics. She does love parties!

Special Edition

2012-01-09T18:15:00.008-05:00

Hooray! The United States Postal Service 2012 Stamp Issue dates are finally available at Beyond the Perf, the USA Philatelic website. January 20th is a BIG release date. Oh my, I can hardly contain myself. That's the day the Lancaster County international rate stamp will be available!

I talked to the friendly clerks at my local branch, and they think there won't be any big fanfare here because management is too busy trying to close the local processing facility. I might just throw my own little party if they are agreeable. They've gotten to know me, you know! A bunch more new postage stamps will be released the 23rd of January, including the Chinese New Year stamp, so I better get working on some dragon mail.

They are little bits of art that help get my mail where it's meant to go. **sigh** So lovely! Send more Real Mail!

Beauty Received in Error

2012-01-08T19:55:00.004-05:00

A few days ago I found two postcards from China in my mailbox. I was in a hurry as I leafed through the mail and assumed they were both Postcrossing. I put them aside with the Good Mail to register later that evening. When I finally had a chance to enjoy my mail, I realized this Chinese New Year card wasn't meant for me. It was from China but was intended for a woman in New York.

I put it back in my mailbox the following day, but I had to scan the beautiful image and postage stamps before letting them go back into the world. I hope by now they have arrived to the addressee. I wonder if any of my cards have ever been misdelivered, and what became of them? I wish I could let the sender of this card know that it brightened my day before continuing its journey.

HAPPY: Mojo Monday 222

2012-01-08T10:24:00.005-05:00

The first time I saw the beautifully coordinated papers and embellishments from The Girls' Paperie, I was smitten. Unfortunately, by the time I discovered them, they had already ceased production. I am slowly collecting all the goodies I can find, many of them on clearance. I do love paper, especially on sale!

I created this card bases on the Mojo Monday 222 sketch, using papers from The Girls' Paperie "Kitch" collection. I discovered these on Etsy at Discount Paper Crafts, a classy shop with a polite, helpful owner. The embellishments are from my collection of collections: brads, stick pins, ribbon flower, button, and vintage ric rac. I distressed and inked the edges of the papers and added some machine stitching. I like to have some non-holiday-specific cards on hand, and this is such a cheerful card!

Hope you have bits of HAPPY in your day too!

Fly Away with Me CPS 249

2012-01-05T13:15:00.009-05:00

For some reason, I thought I might keep working on winter holiday cards; you know, get a head start for next year while I still have all the supplies at hand. My, do I have a lot of supplies for Christmas cards. When I cleaned it all up, I needed one of my old suitcases in order to store everything together (and I haven't tried to close it yet.)

Front of card, CPS 249

But alas, I remembered I had one more new Tim Holtz Sizzix die to try, the winged heart. I was saving it for Valentine cards. So, I've let go of Christmas (though I'll listen to the music a few more days) and I made a few Valentines. I used a simple sketch from Card Positioning Systems (#249) and went wild with glitter, vintage lace, buttons (French glass) and postage stamps. The paper is 7gypsies "Lille" and Papertrey cardstock on a PaperSource Luxe card. So many lovely bits collected and brought together on this card!

Interior of above card

I did some machine sewing around the edges, a straight stitch with zigzag accents. I had a few comments on a previous post where I mentioned machine stitching, and I am embarrassed to say I have yet to answer the questions, so I'll do that now!

I have a sturdy old Singer machine, Model 401A, that I use for all my sewing (fabric or paper.) I use a ball point needle when sewing on paper to avoid dulling sharps. (Ball points are normally used for sewing knit fabric, something my machine refuses to do.) Sometimes thread tension can be a problem, so I recommend sewing on a scrap of paper and then adjusting before sewing the final project. Longer stitch length will make fewer holes and therefore create less chance of tearing the paper. You can use an unthreaded machine to create perforations, if that's what you're trying to achieve. I have mailed postcards with machine stitching naked (without an envelope) and they seem to travel well. If I add buttons, the cards always go into envelopes. Better for the cards, better for the postal machines!

Happy crafting!

Last Cards of 2011

2012-01-01T09:41:00.004-05:00

I began cleaning up from Christmas crafting this past week and created a few more cards with bits and pieces I collected from my desk. Finding just the right mix of new and vintage supplies to create a pleasing design really makes me happy.

These are the last few cards I have to send in 2011. I wouldn't say I'm caught up answering mail (especially mail art,) but for the holiday season, I'm feeling pretty good about things. One more letter to finish before this last card can travel through the post.

I hope everyone enjoyed a safe, happy New Year's Eve.
We toasted to many good mail days in 2012!

Trees: Holiday Mailart Sent

2011-12-26T14:34:00.004-05:00

"cheer" series of 3
altered USPS advertising postcards

"two trees" series of 4
shaped postcards with security envelope trees

"three trees" series of 8
postcards with security envelope trees

"bright and merry" series of 2
recycled tissue box postcards

Letter to Santa

2011-12-24T09:40:00.000-05:00

This letter wasn't sent by post, but it's a letter just the same!

View the Irish Times article here.

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Simply Merry

2011-12-23T09:20:00.004-05:00

Sometimes simplicity is best...
especially this time of year.

May your days be merry and bright...

And may all your Christmases be white.

Old-Fashioned Christmas Cards

2011-12-22T08:56:00.010-05:00

A lovely vintage postcard greeting from Mary Has Sound,
"Winter in the Country" by Courier and Ives

My take on an old CPS sketch (#235), with a vintage playing card image
"The Road--Winter" by Courier and Ives

Aspiration

Oh, give me an old-fashioned Christmas card,
With hostlers hostling in an old inn yard,
With church bells chiming their silver notes,
And jolly red squires in their jolly red coats,
And a good fat goose by the fire that dangles,
And a few more angels and a few less angles,
Turn backward, Time, to please this bard,
And give me an old-fashioned Christmas card.

-Ogden Nash

(From Epstein, Spare That Yule Log, copyright 1933, 1961,
found in The Gift of Christmas, copyright 1965)

USPS 2002

I believe it was also Ogden Nash who said,
"Merry Christmas, nearly everyone!"

Mojo Monday 217

2011-12-04T21:57:00.001-05:00

Mojo Monday Sketch 217, playing with new Sizzix dies!

The swift death of letter writing

2011-12-04T14:23:00.004-05:00

The swift death of letter writing
from Lancaster Sunday News 4 December 2011

Another Real Mail article shared with me by my parents.
My mom plans to make photo copies of the article
and mail it to everyone she knows.

Ironic for it to appear in print news and online?
Stop lamenting and start writing!

Trees Galore!

2011-12-03T21:40:00.003-05:00

34 Trees
Die cut trees on paper
33 different security envelope patterns
and one glittered tree (lower right corner)
Donated to Lancaster Museum of Art's Trees Galore fundraiser
celebrating its 34th year (just like me)

I had the pleasure of attending the Trees Galore! opening on 3 December 2011, First Friday in Downtown Lancaster with my dad, who donated on of his photographs of a tree in winter. He snapped a photo of my piece hanging in the museum, since the photos I took at home were terribly lit. We enjoyed viewing all the other contributions, but we didn't have a chance to visit any other galleries this year like we did last year. I guess we will just have to plan another First Friday outing together! Thanks Dad!

Hooray, snail mail!

2011-12-03T21:26:00.003-05:00

My parents saved this for me from the 24 November 2011 Lancaster PA newspaper. Shortest editorial I have ever seen and probably my favorite! (I certainly hope it was mailed to the newspaper office.) Snail mail is way cool. Let's all send some more!

CPS 246 Believe

2011-12-03T20:58:00.003-05:00

Well, gee whiz, I missed the deadline to share this card on the Card Positioning Systems blog, but I'm going to post it anyway! This week I flipped the sketch. I was so excited to use a whole row of buttons on a card! I had seen it on some other designs, and I finally found a spot it worked for me. I do love buttons; the more, the merrier I say! The little charm is hard to read on the scanned image--it says "believe." I decided to use some of my jewelry making supplies on cards, since I have been too busy playing with paper to make bling for myself. The paper is more from the 6x6 My Mind's Eye pads, some vintage ribbons, and machine zig-zag stitching around the image, also from the paper pad.

Today I helped out with a group of 6th through 9th grade girls, my oldest daughter included, charged with making Christmas cards to include in gift bags for shut-ins. It was great fun to see what the girls designed, their different styles and tastes. I made a few cards to contribute too, and I managed to do it all without my cutting mat, metal straight edge and craft knife! Sometimes it is freeing to "rough it!"

Card Patterns Sketch 143

2011-12-01T22:06:00.000-05:00

I decided to play along with several card sketches this week, to get a few more Christmas cards made and have fun doing it! This one comes from the Card Patterns blog. I have some fancy, but bulky, trims that I decided would be just the ticket on some of my more formal cards.

I usually wrap the ends of ribbons and trims around to the back of the design to hide the ends, but that just wasn't going to work with these stiff, thick trims. I broke out the Fray Check and the Tacky glue and cut flush to the edges with a sharp craft knife. I'm pleased the results and glad to make use of some these lovely bits and pieces, a gift from a sweet neighbor .

The paper is My Mind's Eye, the star is die cut from glittered paper and mounted over a tulle rosette. The buttons are hand-stitched to the card, my favorite way to secure buttons. A little zig-zag machine stitching finishes the bottom edge. The angel stamp is from the same series as the previously featured reindeer, from the recent half-price stamp sale.

I decided I really liked the design, so I made a series of four similar cards from a single 12x12 sheet of Basic Grey double-sided paper, changing the color of the base cardstock or the vertical trim. I also added a strand of gold thread to the tail of the tulle rosette and tried out my gold Stickles to accent the stars and snowflakes in the angel stamp. (After trying dollar-bin glitter glue, Stickles is heavenly to work with!) Enjoy!

Handmade Postcrossing Cards

2011-12-01T14:59:00.004-05:00

Always a joy to receive such beautiful mail!

From Sweden 20 October 2011
Kram is hug in Swedish

From Netherlands 21 October 2011

From Netherlands 14 November 2011

More November Mail Art

2011-12-01T14:48:00.005-05:00

Fausto Mail Art Add and Pass
17 November 2011

My contribution to occupywallstreet via i'm a superhero

This is the first I've created to photocopy
and send out multiples--ten color copies sent.
17 November 2011

November Mail Art to Superhero

2011-11-27T23:17:00.002-05:00

Mail art to i'm a superhero, with playing card collages in pockets
Includes elements sent to me by superhero, altered and reused
13 November 2011

Mail art to i'm a superhero, reverse of playing card collages
13 November 2011

Mail art to i'm a superhero, Lost Art
My interpretation of:
"I am stone/No wings/No Site/But I can fly"
16 November 2011

Button Snowflakes: Mojo Monday 216

2011-11-26T18:34:00.004-05:00

Instead of joining in the mad rush of holiday shopping, I opted to stay home and craft (in between meeting the needs of children on Thanksgiving break.) I am trying to use some of the current sketches available on the many fabulous card-making blogs I read to get going on some handmade holiday cards.

This card is based on the Mojo Monday 216 sketch. When I showed my finished card to my husband, he said something to effect of, "Oh, the snowflakes have tails! They look like fast snowflakes!" Not exactly what I was going for; maybe I should rethink the ric rac.

CPS 245 Seasons Greetings

2011-11-26T17:54:00.006-05:00

Thanksgiving dinner was delicious, but after being bombarded by advertising the remainder of the afternoon for Black Friday shopping, all I wanted to do was come home and make something! I love how these turned out, based on the CPS 245 card sketch.

The finished card is 4" x 6" and I managed to get in quite a bit of texture without too much bulk. The burgundy strip at the bottom is vintage velvet ribbon, the teal strip to the side is vintage satin ribbon, and the brown ric rac in vintage cotton from my Etsy shop. I sanded the edges of the linen texture background paper.

I picked up this fabulous reindeer stamp at the craft store for half price and the sentiments are dollar stamps. I was thrilled to discover my paper punches were a perfect match for the trail behind the reindeer, so I added a few sparkly punched snowflakes. The patterned paper is from a My Mind's Eye 6" x 6" pad, and I only needed a single sheet for the two cards. I think I will be using this design again!

Jaime B's Mail Art Project November

2011-11-19T10:11:00.005-05:00

Five Trees #1 2011 November 8

Five Trees #2 2011 November 8

My offering for Jaime B's Mail Art Project for November sent off to Brazil.

I did a large 34 Trees 10" x 20" framed to donate to the Lancaster Museum of Art for their annual Trees Galore! silent auction fundraiser. It looked great hanging against the light blue walls of our living/dining room, so I almost didn't want to give it up. It dawned on me this year that Trees Galore and I are the same age, so I had to feature 34. More of these security envelope trees will show up in my holiday mail art this year.

40th Anniversary

2011-11-05T10:42:00.005-04:00

Today is my mom and dad's 40th anniversary, their ruby anniversary. We celebrated as a family with a dinner out last night. They have had their share of trials and tribulations, but their love and dedication to each other continues to help them overcome obstacles. I was so proud to help them celebrate 40 years of marriage!

Gratitude CPS 242 and more...

2011-11-02T13:34:00.006-04:00

I managed to clean up all my Halloween craft supplies; now my desk is a mess with autumn and Thanksgiving creations, and winter holiday supplies are collecting in piles on the floor (already!)

I made this Gratitude card Tuesday night, based on the CPS card sketch #242. Finished card size is approximately 4" x 7.5." The solid paper is Ripe Avocado from Papertrey Ink, patterned paper is K&Company, the fabric label is from The Paper Wardrobe, the doily and button are thrift store finds, the tea-stained tag, satin leaf, vintage velvet ribbon, and mini clothespin are from my stash.

I have been wanting to use these cute mini clothespins for some time, but they add so much dimension I have been afraid to try. This card will be hand-delivered, so I won't have to worry about it causing trouble in the mail.

After my thrift store shopping yesterday, I had a bunch of "new" supplies to try out, so with paper scraps from the first card, I just finished another Thanksgiving card based on CPS card sketch #241.

That fancy turkey is actually a vintage paper coaster! There were several lengths of jute trim in a grab bag, along with two rolls of stiff white fabric about four inches wide (tape or webbing for upholstery perhaps?) I cut a piece to matte the patterned paper; it is the perfect width for A2 cards! The card base is Terracotta Tile from Papertrey Ink, and the Blessings stamp is from their "Out on a Limb Sentiments" set.

I had a night out all by myself last night to take my time and wander around two local craft stores and begin gathering ideas for the winter holidays. I am just about bursting! More good mail to come!

More Happy Halloween Mail!

2011-11-02T13:15:00.006-04:00

From the fiery Kerosene

From the lovely Emma

My mailbox and I were happy yesterday! Two fabulous handmade Halloween greetings and two Postcrossing cards were delivered. Many thanks!

Today, a trip to the post office to mail an overseas package to Tangledom and a little something to Pamela for her "What's In Your Mailart Kit?" roundup, though I missed the deadline. A stop at Goodwill yielded some great office supplies, stationery, and craft odds-n-ends. I'm off to sort and create!

Trick or Treat!

2011-10-31T15:33:00.004-04:00

No tricks here--just Real Mail treats!

If you are celebrating, have a spook-tacular time!

A Frightfully Good Mail Day

2011-10-30T16:15:00.003-04:00

A spooky mail art card from Angie & Snooky via IUOMA

Happy Hauntings from Luna in Japan via Postcrossing reply

Fun and fabulous mail in my box yesterday! Now I am curious about how Halloween is celebrated in Japan.

I am behind in answering letters. I am constantly being distracted these days (though sometimes I have only myself to blame.) I think I need to try a new system. I must not allow myself to open and read a received letters until I make time to sit down and respond immediately. The few times I have done this, I feel my response was more heartfelt and interesting to the recipient. Otherwise, it is all too easy to put an opened letter on my pile until I have time to reply, and then my writing feels stale when I finally write back. I think the suspense will be a great motivator!

'Tis the Season?

2011-10-29T09:31:00.000-04:00

I actually wrote this post over a week ago, but I have been debating whether or not to post it without further editing. I was raised with the motto, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Perhaps this is why I am so quiet/shy? Anyway, I decided that this is my little space on web to share my thoughts, and I should do just that, as long as they are well-written and not posted hastily.

Yes, it's that time again, time to start worrying about who will be offended by the holiday mail you send, or don't send.
My kids' Halloween--I mean Harvest--Parade is coming up and their costumes must be related to a book to be worn on school time. Not too hard with a witch and a zombie, but that's not the point. Oh, we are so fragile these days. In our efforts to not get sued and be all-inclusive, we are afraid to expose our children and ourselves to things outside our beliefs. Wouldn't want to Learn something New, especially at school, you know. Wouldn't want to Think or Question; that only leads to confusion.

I have lived in Pennsylvania my entire life, mainly in this small city, but for a time near Philadelphia, and a few summers in the state capital. Chartered by William Penn, it seems those who yell the loudest here these days have forgotten the state was founded on religious freedom, early democracy, and fair treatment of natives and immigrants. I do not wish to impose my beliefs on anyone, nor do I wish to have others' beliefs imposed on me, but whatever happened to open and honest dialogue and education?

I would love to travel the world and learn about as many different cultures and belief systems as I can. Alas, I am a homebody, with family responsibilities. So if you wish, send me mail, mail that challenges me to think outside these four walls and this sometimes-oppresive town/state/country. Open up new worlds for me, share old and new ideas. In return, please consider any mail I send to you an expression of who I am, a sharing of my ideas and beliefs with you, no strings attached. Thank you to superhero for reminding me that the art we chose to view is not always what we need to see to grow.

I just researched one of my all-time favorite quotes, a perfect conclusion to my editorial. “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” Attributed to Voltaire but written by Evelyn Beatrice Hall from The Friends of Voltaire, inspired by a 1770 Voltaire letter to an Abbot le Roche, in which he was reported to have said, “I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.” Coming full circle, Voltaire, a prolific letter-writer, praised Pennsylvania as the only government in the world responsible to the people and respectful of minority rights.

So, without further rants from yours truly, the post office brings us four lovely new issues with which to post our winter holiday greetings.

Madonna of the Candelabra by Raphael and Holiday Baubles, released 13 October 2011

Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, released 14 October 2011
I love how the colors and designs of these three work together! I will definitely be putting one of each on some of my bulkier mail this holiday season.

Truly, the more I learn, the more I understand there is so much more for me to learn. What did you learn today? What can you teach me?

For Sale: Fun Mail!

2011-10-12T22:15:00.005-04:00

I walked into my local educational supply and toy store last week, and I was greeted by this fabulous display just inside the door!

I could hardly believe my eyes, and it took all my willpower not to buy a Animail on the spot (I think they were priced at $10.) I already have plenty of cool stuff I want to send, but for anyone looking for something new and fun to mail, this is great!

Is mail art going mainstream? After seeing these Animails, "Write on, collectible mailers, making mail fun," and my recent encounter with a cut-out "Cheer" postcard on my cereal box, I am beginning to feel hopeful. Send more Real Mail!

CPS 239 Holiday Season Joy

2011-10-12T20:47:00.005-04:00

Today I broke my own rule that I made a few years back about no Christmas music before Halloween. I figured maybe it didn't count if no one else was around to hear it!

I wanted to try this week's sketch from CPS, and I wanted to try using some of the holiday card-making goodies I collected recently. Not a rubber stamp inked for this one, but I went a little crazy with the die cuts and textures! That music paper rosette adds quite a bit of dimension; it will require a larger envelope (and extra postage) if it travels by mail.

The ribbons with the little banner-cut ends are vintage, recently cleared out of my mom's basement. The ribbon is fairly stiff, so I used one corner of my 3/4-inch-square paper punch to make those V-cuts--so quick and easy! I cut the rosette from old sheet music with a Tim Holtz Sizzix die and spritzed it with walnut stain. The glittered flourish and "Joy" are also Sizzix die cuts. The main image is a small re-purposed card front with Cuttlebug embossing folder swirl texture added and layered on a paper doily and circle of DCWV Christmas paper. The finished card is 5x7 inches, larger than my usual A2 sized cards.

No matter what you might be making or mailing today, I wish you joy!

My Cereal Box Came with MAIL!

2011-10-11T20:50:00.005-04:00

My Tuesday or Wednesday morning is usually spent at the grocery store. Cheerios wasn't on the list today, but when I saw this box, I had to buy it!
(OK, it was also on sale, and we all like Cheerios.)

But look at this! A postcard to cut out and send through the postal system to support our nation's military families! The USO will distribute the postcards, and Cheerios will make a donation (based on the number of postcards received) to the USO to support several important programs. You can read more at Cheerios.com. Hooray for Real Mail; now in your cereal aisle!

If you prefer to make your own cards, try Operation Write Home, recommended to me by Becky thesnailmailer. I have yet to ship some of my handmade cards, but I hope to get some Christmas cards sent off this week to beat the October 31 deadline.
Happy mailing!

Mail Art Project: October

2011-10-08T12:39:00.005-04:00

"Surely two could play at this game,
if only someone would explain the rules."
Sent to Danny via Jaime B's Mail Art Project

Jaime B contacted me through IUOMA to participate in this project. A senior in college, Jaime is creating a mail-art network of participants as part of a final project. If I had known about mail art in college, I would have done the same! (I was sending it then, I just didn't know it had a name, and others were doing it too!) A little Anne Taintor flavor to this one, using some fun vintage supplies, mailed off in a popcorn bag envelope.

Postcrossing Outgoing Handmade

2011-10-08T12:34:00.001-04:00

Happy October Birthday
Sent to Turkey

For the love Pink & Girlie + October
Sent to North Carolina, USA

Moon + Halloween
Sent to Japan

The last few handmade postcards from my stash were mailed out via Postcrossing this week, after I jazzed them up a bit. I guess I'll have to make some more! I spent yesterday afternoon trying to clean up my work space, and I finally stored away my die cutting items from small, curious hands. Will I ever have the time and space to use all the supplies I've collected and turn all my ideas into tangible pieces? When I'm not completely exhausted, I dream of storage space and completed projects. . .

Postcrossing Outgoing International

2011-10-07T16:21:00.000-04:00

Vintage Lancaster County "Bountiful Harvest"
(A request for a multiview card and this was the only one in my collection!)
Sent to Korea

The month of May from my Papersource postcard calendar
A request for swans by a new member
Sent to Germany

Lancaster Country Amish farm harvest scene
Sent to Germany

Vintage line card of the Lancaster Post Office
(on the Retail Access Optimization Initiative list for possible closure)
Sent to Belgium

Anne Taintor card for a funny card request
(I hope she shares my sense of humor!)
Sent to Russia

I wrote about my love of autumn on most of these cards. The cooler weather gives me the energy to do some serious cleaning and some real cooking, two things I really dislike doing over the summer! I also like to be cozy and drink hot tea, both much more enjoyable in the fall.
Snuggle in and send some mail!

Postcrossing Outgoing to USA

2011-10-06T13:54:00.006-04:00

Vintage linen card of the Lancaster Public Library
Sent to Texas

Lancaster County Amish corn harvest
Sent to Washington

Dining room at Wheatland, home of James Buchanan, with added stamps
Sent to Minnesota

I thought I would have a little more time for making and sending mail since two of the three kiddos are in school, but for some reason it hasn't worked out that way yet. I finally got back to sending some Postcrossing cards. I tend to wait until I can send four or five at a time, and the last batch of addresses I received were all new members. It was fun to choose cards to welcome them to Postcrossing. I hope they continue to send Real Mail and enjoy many happy mail days!

Postcrossing: Finland, Russia, Netherlands

2011-09-29T13:37:00.008-04:00

From Finland via Postcrossing 26 September 2011

A first day of issue mailbox card and stamp? Yes, it's true postal love!

From Russia via Postcrossing 28 September 2011
My middle daughter is enamored with Matryoshka dolls.

From Netherlands via Postcrossing 29 September 2011
I hope this is not an official card, as there is no ID number and only a scribble of a name, but I will try to register it, just in case.
(It was an official card, and thanks to the Postcrossing system, I was able to register it.)

Thank you to all who sent Real Mail this week!
And thank you to the USPS for delivering the world to my doorstep!
Send the Love!

Postage and Art History

2011-09-29T13:20:00.006-04:00

Because I always need (read: want) more beautiful stamps, I dashed off to my local post office yesterday to purchase the new Romare Bearden issue (and mail a package too.) I love to mail my mail art with art stamps! I am grateful for the encouragement the USPS offers me in continuing my art history education. You can read more about Romare Bearden here and the stamps celebrating his art here and here.

Letter Writing Styles

2011-09-28T21:41:00.006-04:00

"Space mail" pocket tag card and letter mailed 26 September 2011

Vintage finds card and letter mailed 26 September 2011

I was able to write two letters over the past weekend to two very different pen pals. I was musing afterward how my letter-writing style changed based on the recipient.

The first letter was to a young, single man in Brazil. We have exchanged a handful of letters and postcards, so I don't yet know a great deal about him. He is gifted in several languages (I am not) and his written English is excellent. When I am writing to someone who does not speak English as their first language, I am very aware of my grammar and tend not to use contractions or abbreviations, including "&." Despite my formality, I feel my tone is still warm and friendly. I enjoy sharing whatever is currently happening in my daily life, hoping to give him a glimpse of family life in the United States. I feel I sometimes limit my content because I'm not sure if all that I might write as a woman and mother would be interesting to a male reader.

The second letter was to a newly-engaged young woman in Chicago. We have exchanged perhaps two or three handfuls of letters, and she keeps a daily blog, so I feel I know more about her. We have several common interests, not just letter-writing and mail art. Often our letters are filled with our current activities, sprinkled with bits from our past, but there is more insight and emotional content. Since we already share language and cultural history, I can write more naturally and freely. Although I feel more at ease sharing with her than I do with my male pen pal, I still try to filter my content by writing only what I think I would feel comfortable telling her face to face.

Upon further reflection, I suppose part of any good writing is tailoring how and what is written to the intended audience. I am sure my personal writing style will continue to evolve as I write more letters. So, I will just have to go and write some more letters!

(I say "young" as I know both recipients are five year my junior. Plus being a mom seems to add on the years more quickly!)

Gone Missing?

2011-09-23T21:37:00.006-04:00

Ah well, I'm back now, but without #21, 22, and 23. I had a feeling if I missed one post I might miss more. I've been feeling bit scattered recently.

I began this card-a-day challenge to help me learn what I want my blog to be and how much I can handle. So I am learning, and this is what I'm thinking (in a Bianca-style list!)

+ I am not a post-a-day sort of person; perhaps I'll aim for three a week.
+ I do not want to post the same sort of thing every time.
+ I want to focus on mail I make, mail I send, and mail I receive, but it's OK if other bits and pieces seep in sometimes.
+ I might need to make myself a posting schedule to actually accomplish any of this.

So, perhaps I'll call off this card-a-day business and get on to some other interesting items. Thank you for joining me in this experiment. Now I need to send more Real Mail.

Puzzle Note #20

2011-09-20T22:46:00.003-04:00

I purchased a Sizzix puzzle die on clearance, and I have been itching to try it. I finally took the time tonight, despite the growing creative mess on my desk. I am pleased with the results, though the outer edges of the puzzle are not straight. (I am a recovering perfectionist.) I adhered printed paper from 7gypsies to both sides of a piece of chipboard and rounded the corners (my poor thumb.) I wrote a note on the reverse side before I die cut it. Into the mail it goes, then perhaps I will clean up before starting any new projects. Or not.

A Happy Card #19

2011-09-19T19:18:00.004-04:00

Today was tiresome. I am worn out.
This card makes me happy every time I see it.
I made it for my middle daughter's 6th birthday (she's now 7 1/2.)
It is my favorite layout with some of my favorite Cosmo Cricket paper.
I hope it makes you smile too.

Hooray for Mail Art!

2011-09-17T21:12:00.004-04:00

My dad sent me mail art!
He painted this watercolor while taking a short vacation
in Ocean City, New Jersey.

I am replying with this fashionably altered vintage card
showing the Pennsylvania Railroad Horse Shoe Curve.
For more railroad fun, check out this amazing video:
Maple Mountain Sunburst Triolian Orchestra - The Age Of Steam

A beautiful drawing of a Xiamen University building from China
via Postcrossing.

My reply to China. The cool of autumn is beginning to creep in,
and I had my first cup of hot tea today!

Many Thanks #17

2011-09-17T14:13:00.002-04:00

I wish I could give proper credit for this layout, but it's been too long since I found it. I knew when I saw it, I had to make it. I love the bits of thread tied to join the eyelets. I like to embellish with eyelets, so it was one of those "Why didn't I think of that?" moments. Looking back at some of the cards I made a few years ago makes me want to try some of these old layouts with new paper or add an old technique to a new layout. I'm off to the worktable!

If Friends Were Flowers #16

2011-09-16T21:06:00.005-04:00

I am not feeling very social this week, but I am thankful for my friends.
I am glad I can make and send unique cards to let them know I care.
A simple layout with everyday objects can make a quick but sweet card.
Quilting flower pins, grosgrain ribbon, and Dymo labels.

Sometimes what we chose to see is not what we need to see to grow.

Two great sites to check out it you haven't already:
Save America's Postal Service
The USPS brings the world to my front door.
I love Real Mail in my mailbox, and real people at my local post office.

The World Needs More Love Letters
It's beautiful. Let's send more love letters.

Quilt #14 and Fun with Die Cuts #15

2011-09-15T13:01:00.005-04:00

I'm back, with two cards to make up for missing yesterday! I call this a Pocket Tag Card. As I noted before, I like tags and cards that do something more that just open in the usual manner. I was making some library pocket cards, and this design grew from that. I have been using this basic style for quite some time, though I continue to tweek details. I recently began sewing the sides closed instead of gluing them, and I changed the tag style. I often use these for my own notes, and several mail friends told me they enjoyed reusing the pocket. A bunch of these will soon leave my desk and travel to the quilt museum.

Here's a bit of fun for today.
I spent my quiet time playing with an owl Sizzix die.

Rather sweet with it feathered belly!

Quilt Museum Card #13

2011-09-13T20:10:00.003-04:00

Another quilt-themed card headed for the Museum Shoppe.
This is a slight variation on Just Off Centre from Sheetload of Cards.
I incorporated two different vintage trims and some machine stitching.
The focal point is another postage stamp; this time a 34c Amish Quilt.
Time to make more cards!

Quilt Museum Card #12

2011-09-12T16:14:00.004-04:00

A good friend introduced me to the buyer at The Quilt Museum at the Old Country Store, and every once in a while she surprises me with an email order for some of my handmade cards. I created a line of quilt-themed cards especially for the Shoppe. I received such an email this weekend, so this week I will be working to fill her order and sharing some of those cards before I ship them off to the store.

This is one of my all-time favorite layouts, the very first sketch (I'm aware of) from Sheetload of Cards. I really like the colors on this one. It features a postally used Gee's Bend Quilt stamp with some more lovely K & Company papers.

#10 Mail Art Instead

2011-09-10T22:32:00.003-04:00

Mail Art Reply to Superhero

Fragmented Photos (side 1)
Brainless Bureaucrats Are Deadly

Fragmented Photos (side 2)
Bureaucratic Politics

Red White Blue 11

2011-09-10T22:11:00.007-04:00

Every day, I am grateful for the freedoms afforded me in the United States.

I am free to create.

I am free to disagree.
I am free to forgive.
I am free to be helpful and hopeful.
I am free to look up into the sky with wonder, not fear.
I am free to love.
I am free to question.
I am free to be thankful.

I am grateful for the men and women, past and present, in and out of uniform, who serve this country so I can continue to enjoy these freedoms.

Today I will hug my children a little tighter.
Today I will not hide my tears when I listen to stories recounted over the public radio station.
Today I will remember exactly where I was when I first heard the news.

Bewitching #9

2011-09-09T13:25:00.004-04:00

"Are you a good witch or a bad witch?"

Fresh off my desk this afternoon, a fashionable card for Halloween. I had not done any vintage pattern book page cutouts or typewriter captions for awhile. I found a different kind of glitter paper, the DCWV Glitter Cardstock Stack, and of course, had to try it out with the flourish die. I finally, FINALLY found a witch hat paper punch, at a local warehouse clearance center of all places! It is a huge punch and includes a bat, ghost, and pumpkin as well. The houndstooth background paper is from the DCWV Mod-Retro Stack. The clock face is die cut from a Tim Holtz paper pad. The jewels, felt flowers, and buttons are from my stash of tiny things.

#8 Travel Cards

2011-09-08T11:21:00.003-04:00

I created six similar cards in this series using a lovely set of papers and embellishments from The Girls Paperie. I was hoping to finish them before this year's vacation, but I'm writing notes and sending them off into the world now. They will travel near and far, even if I am stuck at home with the kiddos due to Hurricane Lee. I have heard of snow days, but this is my first flood day!

#7 Card for a Rainy Day

2011-09-06T15:10:00.005-04:00

I am grateful my family members sometimes come card-shopping at my house. Recently, I had a request for a get well card. I thought I didn't have any made and would have to whip up something, but it turns out I had several tucked away. I made a series of three or four similar to this one last year from a Sheetload of Cards design.

If you are getting rained on today, I hope tomorrow is sunnier.

Papertrey Ink cardstock, buttons, baker's twine, sentiment stamp, and cloud die,
K & Company printed papers,
my wool felt and ticket.

Card #6 CPS Sketch #234

2011-09-05T14:54:00.010-04:00

I just made this Halloween Bingo card yesterday afternoon. I figured since I'm working mostly from other designers' sketches right now, I might as well work on a current sketch and share it. I'm currently obsessed with Halloween cards. I have black and orange bits and pieces all over my work area. I made a set of cards and a bunch of tags, and I'm still going strong.

I couldn't wait to use that glittery swirl on a card. I don't consider myself a glitter girl, but I was drawn to the flourish die and the glitter paper. I am really pleased with the results, and I'm looking forward to adding some glittery swirls to Christmas cards in the near future.

The sketch is vertical, but I created my card horizontal. Now that it is finished, I think it works either way.

This is a postcard, but I just found an almost-perfect sized glassine envelope to protect it for mailing!

The Girls Paperie Toil & Trouble printed papers,
DCWV solid paper,
Tim Holtz Elegant Flourishes die and paper tape,
Recollections glitter paper and spider punch,
Inkadinkado spider web stamp,
Cavallini & Co. Vintage Number stamps,
my vintage bingo card.

#5 More Art, Less Craft?

2011-09-05T10:15:00.005-04:00

I often have trouble calling my card-making Art, especially when I base the design on someone else's sketch. I recently read an article about this very dilemma, and the author wrote something to the effect that if you make a technique your own, own the work, put your own spin on the design, it is Art. If you are simply following directions or recreating from an example, it is Craft. Even the cards I make completely from my own brain still feel like Craft. I suppose I aspire to be an Artist. Maybe someday I will arrive.

I created this in the past month as a wedding card. It is 5x7 inches, larger than most cards I make. The background is a page from a 1930 play script called "Oh, Promise Me!" Scraps of cardboard, sheet music, mulberry paper, with large button, twig, and linen thread comprise the focal point. Machine stitching and letter beads frame the collage of textures.

Card A Day #4

2011-09-02T20:47:00.009-04:00

This is one of my very own layouts, created to show off the plastic tab and employ a button closure. I love cards that DO something, cards that are a little more interactive. The two tags hang free on the safety pin for more moving parts. I love that diner stamp; used postage has been a favorite embellishment for some time now. My label on the back tells me I made this back in 2009, and it is the last one of its kind in my stock. I will send it off as a birthday card this month, and then maybe I'll make some more.
K & Company printed papers,
Papertrey Ink cardstock, buttons, and sentiments,
additional embellishments from my collection.

Interior 1

Interior 2

Card A Day #3

2011-09-02T20:45:00.009-04:00

Fun but bulky paper-covered buttons pop off this monochromatic card I made sometime last year. To make the buttons, I used a kit meant for making fabric-covered buttons and dampened the paper to make it more flexible. I snipped off the button shank and added self-adhesive foam mounts. I like to make my own embellishments whenever I can. I am often disappointed in the quality of the ones available for purchase. I love tabs, buttons, and layers of paper on my cards, as I am sure you will see be the end of the month! This design is from "The Cardmaker's Workbook" by Jenn Mason. I hope it's masculine enough to use as a boy's birthday card because it is going in the mail soon.

September Card-A-Day #1 and #2

2011-09-02T16:27:00.009-04:00

I am making a lot of cards these days. A lot. I still have plenty in my stash, but I'm on a roll. I collected so much great paper, I really want to turn more of it into beautiful mail. I am going to challenge myself to post a card I have made, recently or one from my stash, each day this month. Considering my posting record so far, this is truly a challenge! If I have time and a good memory, I will include materials and links. (I have no affiliation with any companies, except I buy some of their stuff.) I guess I better post two today to make up for yesterday. Wish me luck!

I made this one last year and listed it for the opening of my Etsy shop. It didn't sell after relisting, so this month it will be a birthday card for a friend.
Based on a CPS sketch from sometime last year, it's a one-of-a-kind.
K & Company papers with added rubber stamping and inked edges,
my vintage lace, button, and machine sewing.

I made this one (and a bunch more in a similar style) a few weeks ago, with envelopes to match.
Based on one of my favorite Sheetload of Cards sketches "Just Off Centre."
Cosmo Cricket Love Earth papers,
Papertrey Ink felt, die, buttons, and twine,
my burlap, vintage ric rac, and machine sewing.

The New Face of Mail

2011-08-29T09:18:00.008-04:00

Exchange Faces from Georgia via IUOMA

Over a month since my last post? Good grief! I have received and answered quite a bit of mail in that time. I finally had a chance to put my Letter Writers Alliance bag to good use. (I have the original, not the snazzy new one.) I enjoyed a week's vacation at the beach with family and spent much of my quiet time writing cards and letters on a large, shady front porch with a tall glass of iced tea. It was lovely!

Exchange Faces from Viviana via IUOMA

Today is the first day of school, so we will be settling back into that routine. I hope to post here more often now that I don't have to share the computer for a good part of the day. And I hope to make and send some more good mail once I finish scrapbook pages from last school year! (Every year I try to keep on top of the school papers, and every year I put it off till the last possible minute!)

From Monika in Poland via PostCrossing

Before I sign off for today, I had to share this fabulous article from Felt & Wire, mentioning several of my favorite postal people and projects. Enjoy, and happy mail day!

Book of the Undead

2011-07-26T23:05:00.010-04:00

My first page for the Zombie Encyclopedia Project

My second page for the Zombie Encyclopedia Project

I honestly didn't think I would be able to participate in this project. I have never really had much interest in zombies. (Though I do own "Thriller" on vinyl.) I thought I might not even try; just send the blank pages back, or forward to someone else. Perhaps hearing my husband play "Stalker" the last few evenings had some influence. I decided to try, and I am pleasantly surprised with my results. (That is, if anything related to zombies can be pleasant.) Tame by some standards I'm sure, but I'm so glad I gave it a chance, gave myself a chance. I guess you just never know.

If you like zombies and mail art, check out Mail of the Living Dead for more. Now I have to figure out who to send this to next. Any takers?

Life, Art, and Letters

2011-07-21T09:36:00.006-04:00

Life has gotten in the way of keeping up with blog posts and new creative endeavors lately (again.) I am spending my quiet moments these last few days sending Real Mail. I thank those of you whose letters arrived in my mailbox last week. My middle daughter spent three days in the hospital receiving antibiotics for pneumonia, and those letters brought more cheer to me than you could have imagined when you sent them. She is home now and almost back to her old self.

I wanted to share a story of art, love, and letters I enjoyed on NPR this morning.
"Stieglitz and O'Keeffe: Their Love and Life in Letters"
http://www.npr.org/2011/07/21/138467808/stieglitz-and-okeeffe-their-love-and-life-in-letters

May you be startled by unexpected beauty today.

SECREt eXCHANGE Korea

2011-07-10T09:21:00.000-04:00

My submission for The SECREt eXCHANGE in Korea sent 9 July 2011.

Old Outgoing Postcards

2011-07-09T11:41:00.008-04:00

Re-purposed book cover postcard sent to Finland via Postcrossing
18 May 2011

Vintage airmail stamp collage sent to China direct swap
31 May 2011

Wine label and map collage card sent to Send Me A Million Postcards
7 June 2011
(I hope this project continues though the website has gone missing.
Does anyone have any information?)

Vintage linen card collage sent to Nadine of IUOMA
20 June 2011

SECREt eXCHANGE Australia

2011-07-08T20:36:00.003-04:00

My submission for The SECREt eXCHANGE in Australia sent 7 July 2011.

Mail Art Sent

2011-06-16T22:32:00.004-04:00

I am so far behind in my posting here, but remember, that means I've been busy creating and sending! I will try to post all the lovely mail I have received recently, as well as some more I've sent, but be patient with me, as I am trying to be patient with my children who are now home on summer break! For tonight, I hope you will enjoy these few images.

Four pages of a 16-page letter-book sent off to Carolee in reply to some of her amazing zines

Shadowbox of mounted paper butterflies cut from a 1950's children's book inspired by this INtangible blog post and sent off to the lovely Donovan

Postage Patchwork on vintage linen Lancaster PA postcard sent off to Angie & Snooky of IUOMA in reply to Corgi Feet

Dimensional postcard? Sure! Actual colored pencils glued to cardboard and mailed off to Emma (I hope this one arrived safely!)

Mail Art Received

2011-06-16T22:20:00.003-04:00

Reply received from a Postcrosser in Finland

Corgi Feet (on the beach) from Angie & Snooky of IUOMA

Letter and packet of paper goodies from the lovely Bianca of Goodnight Little Spoon

Vintage Linen Card Collages

2011-05-17T08:10:00.003-04:00

So instead of creating anything new last week, I finally cleaned up my workspace. I would almost call it Spring Cleaning, but I didn't go crazy and scrub the floor or anything. Although I am pleased to say I can now see my floor! So for the moment, supplies are put away, projects are organized, and I am trying to finish some of the things I started who-knows-when.

Here are a few postcards I sent last month but that never made it to the blog. I love Anne Taintor, and these are my mail art tribute. I created them with vintage linen postcards, lovely ladies trimmed from a 1952 pattern book and captions typed on my Smith-Corona Corsair Deluxe, a Christmas gift from my husband. He's so kind to put up with my paper habit, sometimes he even encourages it! I'm afraid I lost a few images of others in this vintage card series as we switched to a new computer. (I didn't realize it was a temporary folder--oops.)

Sent to Douglas Galloway of IUOMA 16 April 2011

Sent to Brent of IUOMA 16 April 2011

Sent to Emma of Postcrossing 28 April 2011

Ghee Happy Mail

2011-05-11T10:53:00.004-04:00

A sweet "Ghee Happy" letter received 11 May 2011
from Becky "The Snail Mailer"
in reply to my Happy Spring card.
Another lover of Real Mail in Pennsylvania,
she is Leaving a Paper Trail.

Amazing Mail Art Via Postcrossing

2011-05-09T12:02:00.007-04:00

An amazing creation from a Postcrosser in Holland
received 9 May 2011.

I could not imagine what I was receiving from Holland packaged in a bubble mailer and box. The suspense was wonderful, and the mail art and note make me smile every time I look at it!

A sweet thank you card from a Postcrosser in Poland
received 9 May 2011.

A beautiful collage of everyday items, I love that they become extraordinary when careful arranged and mailed around the world with a thoughtful note.

There is beauty all around us.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T08:38:00.003-04:00

"Queen Blanca" by Albert Edelfelt, 1877
A lovely thank you card from a thoughtful Finnish Postcrosser

Post To/From PostMuse

2011-05-06T11:31:00.000-04:00

This is a "clean the scraps off my desk" postcard collage.
When I finished it, I decided it was meant for PostMuse.
I mailed it out 4 May 2011.

When I opened my mailbox that very same day, I had a lovely Mail Art 365 tea-themed card from none other than PostMuse!
I love when that happens!

I put the finishing touches on a tea-themed recycled Post House card and sent it in thanks the very next day.

Ah, the joys of mail art!

Postage Patchwork Card Set

2011-05-06T11:10:00.001-04:00

Postage Patchwork 1/2
Contrary Wife quilt square created from vintage stamps with machine stitching mounted on vintage linen postcard of Lancaster County Courthouse with Dymo name label and mailed naked

Postage Patchwork 2/2
Churn Dash quilt square created from vintage stamps with machine stitching mounted on vintage linen postcard of Lancaster Public Library with Dymo name label and mailed naked

My final submissions for the Textile Mail Art Project. The first is my favorite of the two. I am a big fan of puns, wordplay, and irony. I was unable to find a quilt square with a name that played as well on the library postcard. I love creating something new from something old.

I shipped these cards out today with a stack of postcards to college friends and Mother's Day cards to family. Unfortunately, only catalogs incoming today.

From Russia with Love

2011-05-06T10:52:00.000-04:00

A beautiful handmade card from a young Postcrosser in Russia.

I received her name and sent a handmade card, and she replied.

Proper Postal Form

2011-04-06T22:28:00.000-04:00

"To Insure Timely Mail Delivery

Always include complete ad-dress label,
complete return ad-dress label, and
the proper measure of postage"
- Postal Guidelines

Textile Mail Art Project Submission sent 7 April 2011
Silkscreened dress form background paper, die cut paper labels, stamps and dresses, fabric care tags, machine stitching, rubber stamping, mounted on cardstock, postcard size, mailed naked

I really like this project, it combines two of my favorite things, so I'm sending off another card. I hope there's no limit; I made some postage patchworks as well. What can I say? I had a brainstorm, and now I have to create! (Those barcode labels that get added to my mail always remind me of ruler markings!)

Postcrossing Mail Art Received

2011-03-25T22:25:00.001-04:00

Recycled vintage book cover illustrated by Dick Bruna from the Netherlands 22 March 2011

Elegant hand-drawn swirl over collaged text from Finland 28 February 2011

Lovely little watercolor scooter from California USA 1 March 2011

Fun stamp collage and drawing from Maine, USA 6 March 2011

Sweet hand-drawn card from Poland 14 March 2011

It's been a long week here. We all have the sniffles, and spring turned back to winter. Luckily, Monday was a truly exceptional mail day (I have to take some photos, so that will be another post.) I spent much of my spare time this week creating cards to fill an order from a local quilt shop.

Not too much mail outgoing, so I'm finally sharing the wonderful handmade cards that came to me through Postcrossing from the end of February into March. I love all Real Mail, but it is incredible when someone randomly selected takes the time to make a card just for you.

My letters-to-write pile is about to fall over, so this week I hope to answer some of the lovely mail I have received, in between baking cupcakes for two birthday girls and working out friends sleepovers and family celebrations!

P.S. Good news! My "Security Blanket" traveled safely to the Textile Mail Art Gallery!

"Security Blanket"

2011-03-19T12:18:00.000-04:00

"Security Blanket"

Textile Mail Art Project Submission sent 18 March 2011
Nine different security envelopes cut into 3/4" patchwork squares,
vintage cotton thread machine stitching,
bound with a tenth security envelope and mounted on cardstock,
postcard size, mailed naked

The Mailing of the Green

2011-03-17T22:02:00.000-04:00

Sent off to my brother Patrick

Sent off to Send Me A Million Postcards

I didn't get much mail art made in honor of St. Patrick's Day, but I did send a few other cards I had on hand to family and friends with a bag of Irish Breakfast Tea tucked inside. I enjoyed a cup this morning. The leprechauns visited the refrigerator last night: we found green milk, green Jell-o, and green pudding this morning.

My goal since I discovered Send Me a Million Postcards about a month ago is to send them a card every week. So far, so good. I'm alternating between store-brought and handmade. If you haven't sent them anything yet, join in the fun!

Outgoing Handmade Postcrossing Cards

2011-03-11T15:08:00.000-05:00

Postcrossing to Netherlands 5 March 2001

Postcrossing to China 28 January 2011
(My first mail art to China; I hope it arrives.)

Postcrossing to Ukraine 8 March 2011

Postcrossing to Germany 8 March 2011

A selection of my handmade postcards sent through Postcrossing. Several of my recipients lately have stated no handmade, so I honor those requests with something from my box of store-bought cards, all tastefully artistic of course. Except for the vintage kitschy tourist cards of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, which are also fun to send to the right people!

I have had a great response to my handmade cards on Postcrossing. I always try to create a card to fit the interests listed. Sometimes I challenge myself to see how many interests I can collage on one card and still end up with a visually pleasing result.