A Brand New Product! EZ to use, fun for everyone!

It's called "Ink Effects", and you will just love it!

This project is so easy to use, and I really think you will enjoy this.  Imagine, you can paint on regular printer paper, then iron your design right onto whatever you are decorating.  You can even tear pages from color books, paint them, then iron right onto your material.  Imagine, you can use this on:

T-shirts

Pillow Cases

Canvas Bags

Pants

and whatever else you can imagine! 

Simple, and fun!  Great project for kids too.  (Just supervise them with the iron!)

For More Info, and Pattern Packet Click Here

PUMPKINS Everywhere! Make your own Village!

Pumpking Village Instruction Sheets

Isn't this just the cutest?  And perfect timing for your decorating needs.  It's all made from STYROFOAM and MagiKote!  I really think you will love this one!  Have fun!  And remember, if you have any questions on any of my projects, feel free to contact me : )

It's Been Awhile!

So sorry for the delay in any new posts!  I have been swamped with work lately, and it seems to have taken much more time to catch up than I originally intended.  But, I'm back!  (At least for now! lol)  Wanted to direct you to some of the new projects I've been working with Deco Art on.  I'd love to hear your thoughts on them here!  Feel free to post! : ) 

Fall Accent Grouping - Make Your Own From Styrofoam!

Social Artworking @ Joann's For September

This will be the class taught at Joann's on Friday September 21, noon to 3pm.  If you need a different time, just let me know, as I will try to accomodate if I am able.  This is a fun class, no strict painting needs, and for beginners and advanced as well ; )  Would love to see you.  Just be sure to go to Joann's and sign up for this as soon as possible, or let me know if you have a group you'd like to get together and meet up!

Fun painting!

Tina

Ideas!!

I am currently working on designing patterns for Deco Art's new product "Ink Effects", as well as new designs for their Social Artworking program.  (Great fun with both of these!!)  If you can think of anything that YOU would like to see as far as designs for either of these, please let me know!  I have quite a few ideas already going that I think everyone will be pleased with, but am always looking to please those who are seeking new and exciting things to try. : )

Also, if you'd like to share the projects you've completed, I'd love to help you show them off.  Just let me know!

Have a great time crafting and creating!  And a blessed day : )

Smiles to everyone,

Tina

Bunnies!! Not just for Easter anymore! : )

Adorable little bunnies, in a tea set!  Do you collect tea sets or tea pots, or know someone who does?  This would make a cute gift for them, or anyone who loves CUTENESS! : )

Once again, this is made from styrofoam and DecoArt's MagiKote product.  This project isn't what I would call a beginner project by any means, but I think I have written the instructions in such a manner that you will be able to follow along.  If you have any problems, however, feel free to contact me!  The directions can be found HERE.  Enjoy yourself!  And, if you do make this, I'd love to see it when you are through ; )  Feel free to change the colors up to match your decor.  That makes it more personal.

Fun crafting!!

Tina

MUSHROOMS...PRETTY MUSHROOMS!

Magical, MagiKote mushrooms are ready to be displayed to your preference. These are so cute, and easy to make, and tons of fun!!

Make the whole village, and have a great time!  You can't tell by looking at them, but can you believe they are made from styrofoam?  Yup...just styrofoam, MagiKote, and paint.  Let your imagination run!  And have bunches of fun!  My directions are posted on DecoArt's Site:  CLICK HERE

I SEE YOU!! Ladybug Planter

TIME TO MAKE THEM SMILE!  And what better way than with this cute little flower pot with a ladybugs face on it?  Perfect to add color to your gardens, and so easy to do. 

Located on DecoArt's web page, you can go there directly through THIS LINK.  What a great gift to make someone, too!  Make them smile! : )

Miniature Bird Bath for your Fairy Gardens!

Looking for some color to add to your garden this time of the year?  The flower blooms are starting to wind down, in some parts anyway, and now would be the perfect time to fill in the gap with a little color!

This project would be great for your little fairy gardens, or any other little nook you can find.  Inexpensive, and beautiful, I think you'll enjoy this one! ; )  Write me for any questions you might have, and click HERE for the instructions off of DecoArt's web page!

Bamboo Coasters - Stenciled

Why not personalize your table?  Let it be a reflection of you!  This project is super easy, and can be modified to whatever colors YOU wish!  Another one of my projects that has been listed on DecoArt's site now, and ready for your viewing!

Click HERE for instructions!

Fun Pastel Geo Box

These colors are beautiful!  (Thanks DecoArt for such beautiful hues!)  This little box would be perfect to use (in my opinion) in a baby girls nursery, holding q-tips or cotton balls, or on your little girls dresser for her barretts.  Contemporary, yet old fashioned with the pastel colors.  Fun times!  Easy to paint, and so nice to admire.

Directions to paint your own!

Social Artworking!

This is the next painting I will be teaching at Joann's Craft Store in Augusta, GA.  The class will be held August 22 from noon to 3pm.  Be sure to sign up as soon as possible, as classes will be cancelled if there isn't enough participation.

Look forward to seeing you there! : )

Tina

Baby Squirrels!!

Have you ever seen something so precious?  Two baby squirrels were found first by my dog Chewy, right outside his kennel, then by my husband.  They are so young that their eyes aren't even open yet!! We tried to locate a nest that they fell from, but just can't find one anywhere. The little girl has a broken leg, but with the help of some herbal compresses, it really looks much better today, and she has gained some use of it.  I actually saw her scratching herself with the toes on that foot, too...yay!!
So...feeding every two hours for her and her spunky brother, and hopefully we will get these babies raised up and healthy enough to release again.  Strange time for them to be born, though, it seems?  This late in the season?  Hmm...I dunno.  Anyone else enjoy helping the little guys out like this?  Love to hear from ya! : )

See more pics of these little guys on my FB site:  (must join first - my name there is Meadroit, or look me up by TinaKauffman)  The link is: Find them here!

Watermelon Napkin Holder

With MagiKote, you can really do just about anything!  I think you will like this little project. 

Many of you are changing your kitchen colors to RED, too, these days.  This will match it perfectly!  So fun and easy to make, and so cute too!

Directions on how to make your own!

Easy Mason Jar Vases

Get directions to make this HERE

Remember the BLUE GLASS of yesteryear?  These beautifuly mason jars are a wonderful EASY project for you to enjoy.  I only wish I would have thought of it first ; )  This is done by craftaholicsanonymous, and I think you will enjoy it!  Whatcha think??

Magical Fairy Garden, by Shannon Walls and Daughter

There is nothing more magical than getting to spend time with those we love!  Shannon Walls has been having a great time spending time with her little daughter putting together a little Fairy Garden in their yard!  It is so cute, and they are having such fun with it, that I asked her permission to share their progress so far.  I think you will just love it, as I certainly do!

Isn't it just precious!!  I love it.  And soon she will be adding some mushrooms that she is getting from my Etsy shop, as well as a few more little goodies that I am sending them to enjoy.  (Shhh, they are a surprise! lol...I think they will enjoy them too : )

If you have a fairy garden that you would like to share, send me a picture and I will do my best to help you share it with others who enjoy them!  Who know, you might even inspire someone else out there to begin their own little "magical patch" real soon.  Have a great day my fine peeps!!  And, thanks again, Shannon (and daughter) for allowing me to share this with others out there ; )

Clouds

Have you ever really took the time to look at the clouds?  Especially on days like today, when there is a storm brewing.  (Tropical Depression Beryl)  They start off innocent looking, just floating calmly along without a care in the world.  And as time passes by, they begin to grow tall and majestic, reaching higher and higher, and going from the cleanest of white in color to grey and dismal. Truly magnificient, and miraculous...

If you've never really taken the time to do so, make it a plan!  Share this beauty with your children, as well, and teach them to appreciate the wonderous glory that surrounds them daily...  They will cherish, forever, the time you share gazing at the clouds together...

God bless each of you, and stay safe!

Tina

What to do today???

I'm working on pattern packets for decorative painting designs, and will post them as soon as I get any ready!  Let me know if there is anything in particular that you are looking for, as well, and I'll try to accommodate you. : )

Have a blessed day!

~Tina

MagiKote Mushrooms

In a world of make believe, little elves and fairies tend my garden when I am too busy to do so...
It is their magic that makes the mushrooms grow in the plants of my home, bringing beautiful color to all corners...

So playful and fun!!  But seriously, can you believe these are made from styrofoam?  And, they bring such wonderful color and variation into your plants!  I just love them.  So easy and fun to make, you have got to try them!  For Directions CLICK HERE  Use the beautiful brilliant paints from Deco Art, and get wonderful results that you can count on, too.  I love the fact that it really only takes one coat to cover these, and using the Patio Paints, as I did, you don't even have to seal this when you are through. 

As always, if you have any questions regarding this project or any of my others...just let me know.  Have a great day!

HUGZ!

Tina

ADHD Anyone?? lolz

Like my profile states, I am an artist, a teacher, a designer, and an internet cafe' owner.  I am always amazed at the people I get to meet in all the venues I involve myself in.  For instance, it has occured to me many times the similarity my artists and gamers have in common.  All great people, to be sure, and have the uncanny ability to be able to think about multiple projects at one time; they all share the ability to continue to think "outside the box".  Are we all ADHD?  I do not use this term lightly, I promise.  I was diagnosed as being ADHD many years ago, and strive hard to work around, beside, and in the middle of it all.  But, apparently many artists deal with these same issues.  Perhaps its just the mind continuing to design, wander, and create...nothing wrong with that.  Except for the frustration that comes along with the multiplicity of it all.

But, how blessed we truly are for being able to be this complex.  And what wonderful people we get to meet and share our lives with, all because of these creative moments.

Well...off now to finish some designs that I started.  Unless I get interrupted with someone needing a healer or DPS in a battleground on WOW, lol.  (I am at work, at the moment, in The Gaming Cave, lolz)  <--The joys of having multiple level 85 accounts, and enjoying GAMING!!  lol  Have you ever seen the beautiful artwork in these games???  Just saying...

Have a great day all!!

HUGZ!

Tina

Espresso Metallic Tissue Box

This one matches the last! Wouldn't they both just look great together decorating your bathroom?  Using the same techniques, paints, and brushes as in the Geo Box, why not go ahead and paint this beauty up as well?  The contemporary sleek design really puts these colors and brushes to use.  The brush is by Loew-Cornell, called FLORA .  See the video Gisele has on how to use this new brush! See Gisele demonstrate the use of the new Flora brush!

For Painting Directions and Supply List Click Here

Have fun! Would love to hear what you think on this piece, as well!

HUGZ!

Tina

Espresso & Metallic Geo Box

Isn't this just awesome?? I just love the colors and the contemporary look of this piece.  The box is available at Michael's Craft Stores, and the rich hue paints, Americana Acrylic Paints from Deco Art.  I painted it using Loew-Cornell's new brushes, which make it a breeze. (Here's a video on how to use this FLORA brush.)

Want to paint this yourself?  Click HERE for instructions and supply list.

I hope you like this!  If you have any questions, please just let me know.

HUGZ!

Tina

**MagiKote Wall Flowers**

Just in time for the Summer months.  Wouldn't these just look great hanging in any room?   Bring a little color and brightness to a dull corner.  Have a deck that needs some decorating?  What a perfect time!  These projects are such fun to make, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact me! : )

Click HERE for: Instructions and Supply List
Click HERE for pattern!

Have fun people! ; )

Tina

Beautiful Weekend In GA!

It's been a beautiful weekend here in GA!  Though I've been working at The Gaming Cave, I've had a little time to mess around with my blog, and get creative.  This beautiful background was found at http://www.plumroselane.com/ , where you can find some truly awesome artwork! (Check them out!)  I did my banner, with Mr. Rugbug...I'll have to explain his name another time (when dinner isn't just about ready).

I hope you had a great weekend...and I'll be back real soon to post some goodies!

Tina

Joann's Open House - Come Meet Me!

Tomorrow, Saturday April 7th, I will be at Joann's Crafts on Washington Road!  If you are anywhere near there, would love for you to come by and introduce yourself.  I will be demonstrating the new Social Artworking classes that I will be teaching soon in their store.   There will be a sign up sheet for the new classes, which actually begin on Wednesday (next week) from 12-3, and will be (tentatively) scheduled each 1st Wednesday of the month, same time.  I'd love for you to join us!  If you'd like more information on the Social Artworking classes, you can go to any Joann's, and they have the new products already in stock in the stores.  There are some really awesome patterns in this program and I really think you will enjoy them!

I've already been practicing a few of them myself, and have found this series to be simple enough to look complex, but easy for anyone to do.  I really think you'll enjoy it : ) 

If you get the chance, I do hope to see you on Saturday.  I'll be there from 1-3.  And, perhaps you'll take a class with me! : )  Bye for now!  There is a canvas calling my name!  lol...

Tina

April's Fool Day!

I had thought about coming on here, typing up some grand joke to play on my friends and family...but they know me too well, so it would never work. Lol.

So, I just wanted to wish you all a great day, and remind you to be wary of those who might be just waiting to spring a joke on you today!

I'll be working on some designs this afternoon, and hope to have them uploaded to this blog this week.  My plan is to put a few on there that you can just download, as well, and create something beautiful from them!  Until then...Keep crafting!

*HUGS*
Tina

Cement Mushrooms! What Fun!



These cute little gems decorate any blank spot in your garden or flower pots!

I have had these posted for some time now on my Etsy site, and people just seem to love them.  Especially come the Spring and Summer, when we are trying to find things to brighten up our yards.  I like to think of them as little "Magical Mushrooms", filled with beautiful colors and bunches of glitter!  They just look like tiny little fairies would be hiding beneath them, lol. 

Find more at http://www.etsy.com/listing/75579888/magical-cement-mushrooms

Crumbles Cookie Factory

WOW! I just checked this one out, (http://www.etsy.com/shop/crumblescookies?ref=seller_info) and the stuff here look scrumptious!  Everything at Crumbles Cookie Factory look so delicious.  They have sold 646 items, and have a following of 1749!  I can understand why!  Not only are there scones, bread, and marshmallows, but also cookies, crumbles, and even something for your little "Paw-dner" (pet) friends there at home http://www.etsy.com/listing/54155684/dusty-trail-or-pantaloon-paws-doggie .  You really need to see this lovely shop for yourself.  Tell her "Tina" sent you! ; )  Have a blessed day!

Doggie Paws - So Cute!!

Red Velvet Swirl Brownies!

Fellow Etsians

I would love to help promote your Etsy sites, as well.  Be sure to send me a message on Etsy letting me know you have joined this blog, along with your site info, so I can make sure I put the correct link on this blog.  Thanks!  Lets Grow Together!
Find these cuties at Tina's Hobby & Art Design's on Etsy



Babysitting Frog!

Cement Mushrooms for Yard Decor



Handpainted Triangle Box



Praying Frog

Awesome Handbags, Clutches, Ipad Covers and More!

Check out this store: http://www.etsy.com/shop/hmmills for some great items!  I think you'll find a bag there that you will love.  Look at this one for instance!

Nice colors!

A Great Piece of Art For St. Patrick's Day

Elizabeth is one of my follower's, and this is such a cute piece she has done!  Please check out some of her other pieces, as well, on her facebook site at https://www.facebook.com/#!/softpencil .

Social Artworking

Okay, anyone heard of this?  It sounds like lots of fun!  Go to Social Artworking and check it out.  If you like to get together with groups of your friends, and are looking for something different to do, this might just fit!  Social Artworking would be a great thing to do for celebrating any of life's events, too.  Who says you have to play those silly games at wedding showers, baby showers, etc.?  This would be a great exception, and leave your friends talking about the great time they had!

Looks like I might be teaching this, as well, at our local Joann's in the near future.  So, if you have any question about what "Social Artworking" is, drop me a line!  Looks like lots of fun!! : )  A few paintings:

Scrapbooking By The YARD

Okay, here is something to inspire all of you!  Spring is here, and it is so beautiful outside!  I have a huge yard, but not much time to be working in it, and it seems impossible for me to tackle...just plain overwhelming!  So, we are going to take it one space at a time!

I am going to show you how you can take one little corner at a time, and turn it into something you will just love!

Today I am going to show you just one spot that I will be working on.  It will be our BEFORE photo.  Then, I will post a picture of the AFTER photo, and tell you how to accomplish it!

If you have been interested in creating some little interesting spots in your yard, join me in this venture!  Through a little labor, handpainting, cement work (possibly?), or whatever we decide to go with, you will see changes that you will enjoy.

I call it "Scrapbooking By The Yard", simply because we will be taking pieces of "stuff" and turning this yard into a pleasure to be in, one "yard" at a time! : ) 

This photo will be my starting point.  Join my ventures!  I'd love to see what you are doing too!!

Oh, what to do...what to do...lol

Ever have moments when you just KNOW you want to do something, but really don't know exactly what it is you FEEL like doing?  And, if you don't feel like doing it, it sure will show it!

That's the way I felt all day today.  I woke up with so many things on my brain, so many "great" ideas that I wanted to conquer.  But, alas...I failed to accomplish them all.

YES, I tend to demand too much of myself!  I do know this.  But, isn't life great??  What we don't have the opportunity to accomplish this day, will usually still be accessible to us the next.  And, if its not, then it might not have been meant to be in the first place...

I am not an advocate of procrastination, by any means!  But, as long as I get the necessaries accomplished daily, the rest will get taken care of in due time.  I have learned, finally, to not sweat the small stuff.  Just enjoy every day that the Lord sees fit to give me, and do the best I can!

So, that being said...today I made some fresh bread for my family!  And, I worked some more on a design I am doing for Loew-Cornell, which I should have ready very soon.  (It's so cute!)  I packed my art bag and headed to my other job (The Gaming Cave), where as long as I'm not swamped with business, I shall proceed to work more on it!

I hope your day was as blessed as mine has been thus far!

Tina

P.S. Check out http://www.loew-cornell.com/ for some of the best brushes around.  They have some awesome NEW brushes.

New Designs coming!

Spring is almost here!  And so are the new designs!  I will be posting new designs very soon that reflect on the upcoming beautiful weather.  I think you will love them!  If you'd like to be notified, make sure you join my blog! : )

Time to ENJOY SPRING!!

New Projects Will Be Here Soon!

You can find any of my completed projects now listed with Deco Art by following this link: http://www.decoart.com/cgi-bin/Projects.cgi
They will continue to post them as the become available, so check back often!

Upcoming Soon:
MagiKote Leprechaun - he is simply magical!
MagiKote Summer project - you'll have to wait to see this one, but I think you'll love it!
MagiKote Easter project that is so cute, you'll want to make this for yourself and your friends!
MagiKote Train Diorama - make your own terrific scenery with these great projects!
and much more...so check back often.

Great to see you, and please join this blog!

Little Green Caterpillar

So cute! I told you this MagiKote product was "the bomb"!  You will just love the versatility of it, and enjoy your ability to be creative.  Take for instance, this little green caterpillar that I designed for Deco Art.  They have just posted the pattern for it now on their site.

Its a simple project, but oh-so-cute!
Cute Little Caterpillar

Let me know what you think!

MagiKote Product: Have You Seen It?

Make a Lizard!  It is so awesome to be able to create just about anything you like, without having to form molds first.  Grab a block of styrofoam, or scraps, and make something awesome! 

If you haven't tried it yet, you just have to get a bottle of MagiKote, and let your imagination go wild.  These are a couple of projects that I have done for Deco Art recently, and you can go to their site (listed below) for the complete directions.  Play with it, have fun, and be creative!!  Let me know if you have any additional questions. ; )

http://www.decoart.com/cgi-bin/Projects.cgi?MagiKoteLizard

http://www.decoart.com/cgi-bin/Projects.cgi?MagiKoteFrog

http://www.decoart.com/cgi-bin/Projects.cgi?MagiKoteMushrooms

Which Sealer Do I Recommend?

I just received this message on my Etsy site (TinaKauffman.Etsy.com), regarding a question on which sealer to use for projects:

February 16 2012 7:09am EDT
Hi Tina,
Your flower pot is adorable! I also paint terra cotta pots and I was wondering if you'd share with me what you seal yours with. I have been using urethane, but I have found that they start to peel. I am not an artist, I don't plan on selling these anywhere. I just do them for my kids teachers with handprints or thumbprint art. Thanks for your help! D

RE: Listing: www.etsy.com/listing/36097832/terra-cotta-planting-pot-with-frogs ********************************
I'd like to say that all sealants are created equal, but they really just aren't. I have been using Deco Art's Americana Spray Sealer on my projects for well over 7 years now, and have never been disappointed. They are non-yellowing, so you don't have to worry about your treasured pieces turning a funky color years down the road. They simply stay beautiful. And, it comes in a Matte or a Gloss, so its your choice. I love them! I think you will too!

Until the next time I think about something! Lol

Available at: http://www.decoart.com/cgi-bin/Products.cgi?Americana_Spray_Sealer

Tina

Pattern Packets

I am getting some of my patterns together, and making patterns packets finally!  And, I will be making them available on my Etsy site (TinaKauffman.Etsy.Com) for those who are interested in making a purchase.  However, I will be listing them here FIRST!  So...be sure to come back and check for more information on them!  A few that are upcoming:

- Mushroom Village Painting's
- Frog Paintings
- Paint-By-Number Designs
- and more!

Looking forward to more sharing more with you real soon! : )

Have a great day everyone!

Tina

So Many Hats!

Ever feel like you wear many hats throughout the day? Wow...I think I need a larger closet for mine! BUT, by the grace of God, things will get done when needed, right? lol

I am working on a design for Loew-Cornell at the moment, and hope to send it to them real soon. Also have some new ideas in the works for Deco Art! Hopefully I'll have something to show you on here real soon!

Check back again soon!

Hugs for a great day!

Tina

Fine-Line Painting Pen by Loew-Cornell

I just got my "Fine Line Painting Pen" from Loew-Cornell, and I just love it! Often times I have an issue with getting my fine lines to look straight and consistent. With a regular brush, you usually get a blob here and there, and the lines are just really tough to get to look the same! But, I think I have now discovered what will become one of my favorite tools! I'm adding a link to Dick Blick's page where you can get this if you are interested, and its on sale right now!

http://www.dickblick.com/products/loew-cornell-painting-pens/

If you'd like to see a video on how to use this great instrument, just go to  http://www.loew-cornell.com/product-page-pages-43.php?cid=112&pid=366 and click on the link.  You will be amazed.

I DON'T make a commission on sales from Dick Blick, just really like their service, and REALLY like this new tool! I'd love to hear your thoughts, on it, as well!

~Tina

Busy Busy Busy

I have to laugh...I mean, what else can a person do, right?
I seem to go without anything to work on, project wise, for what I deem as way too long. (Could be just a week gone by, who knows, lol). But then when it starts, I get swamped! Oh well, I am always thankful for the many blessings that come my way, and continue to strive to do my very best on every project I take on.

Still working at The Gaming Cave in the evenings, and it is picking up steady with time...lovin' it! And, dragging all my art designing bags with me each night! (God bless the patience of my dear son who helps me tote this stuff!)

Currently I am working on designing with some new paints, Craftsmart, for Project Sheets with Deco Art. These are going to be for Hobby Lobby, I believe. (I need to find out when these things actually get on the floor, and get myself a copy!)

I am also trying to finish my project instructions for the MagiKote products. If you haven't tried playing with that product yet, you owe it to yourself to do so! It is so versatile, it allows you to bring out your creativeness with very few restrictions! I think you would love it. I hope to have some of those projects showing here soon, just waiting permission to do so. Until then, you'll have to take my word for it, these projects looks so cute!!

Well, off to work I go...(I love my job(s)) : )

Late Night Artist - Just ONE of my Titles!

I have never been a morning person...and when the rest of the world settles down for the evening, and prepares to rest...that is the time of the day I am inspired by! The quietness, the cool evenings, the "settled" feeling...I am relaxed enough then to put my ideas into motion...and create.

What about you? When do you find yourself the most inspired? And how do you make time for your crafting and works of art? Just curious...

Christmas Village with MagiKote

I have finally finished the instructions for this project! Whew! I don't know why it took me so long, but I sure wish I would have had the time to make my own little village to enjoy. It is so much fun, and I just know you are going to love it!

I can't post the pictures of it yet, but will when I can!

Now...to work on the instructions for the St. Patrick's Day project: Leprachaun
and for Easter, Bunnies! Yay! Always such fun to be allowed to create new pieces for you to enjoy!