Pulp Sushi

A Trip to New Paltz, NY

New Paltz is another cool town just north from where I live.  It's located on the other side of the Hudson River in Ulster County. It's home to the popular college SUNY New Paltz and the town reflects that, very hip, arty and a little hippie - we are not too far from Woodstock afterall.  It's a fun town to walk around in and shop the local small businesses. 

I was up there this past Saturday to visit my friend's new store, The Treehouse.  I wrote a blog post about it for Hudson Valley Makes but I wanted to share some more pictures from my visit.

   
I'm so happy for my friend Kathy, I've mentioned her here before.  Her business is Gnorasaurus but now she's the own this neat store, isn't she cute????

I'm sure she will have much success in her new home! :)  While I was there, I went downstairs and checked out the antique shop Nora's Cottage and I somehow, magically walked out of there with a table! Funny, we didn't leave the apartment intending to get any furniture...

I was thinking about painting it but the gold is kind of growing on me now.  Still gotta think of what to put on it.  Some more plants perhaps, maybe it's time to buy a new funky little lamp?  I love it and I'm so glad Mike convinced me to get it. It was only $12.50 - I know some of you Thrifty experts may think it's too much but trust me, it was a good deal. Plus it weighs a TON!

Blog: DIY Tutorials 3.30

Time to end the week with some fun tutorials from around the web, check them out and enjoy!

Fancy Felt Flowers from Pie N' The Sky

These pretty flowers never need water and will never shrivel up.  Super easy!

Learn to make a Terrarium from Little Nostalgia 

I made one for the first time last  year and it's still holding in there, although I'm afraid to air it out (yikes!)

DIY Scrap Fabric Banner from Bon Jour Hello

I am so doing this! I have a bag FULL of little fabric scraps that was left at my place the last time did a Craft Supply Swap. I don't even know who left it but it's mine now! I can make a few banners with the amount of scrap I have.

Tonight's Mega Millions drawing is $540 million! I usually don't play Lotto, but I got in on this one.  I don't even need to win the whole pot, just give me a taste, it would help a gal out greatly. :)  Who knows, I may have the winning numbers. Good luck if anyone else is playing along!

Stalker Much? I ♥ Paper Sparrow fabric pattern

How can I not love cute fabric patterns? I'm not a sewer so I'll see something, say "Awwwww! :)" and move on.  My jaw dropped when I saw the latest fabric designs Andrea came up with from Paper Sparrow.

Yes I would totally want a dress in this material, especially the arrows. I just love these colors together.  Andrea is such a talent!  I love her artwork too. Not since Emily Martin from The Black Apple have I been so into an artist's work. I have one of her prints above my work table and a postcard displayed in my cubicle. If I had unlimited funds, I would own more. I've been eyeing this design for a while.

Now that she's in New York, maybe I will be lucky enough to catch her selling her treasures somewhere in person? :)

Pulp Sushi's BIG Valentine's Day Giveaway - Enter Now!

I am so excited to bring you my first BIG giveaway!  I've had giveaways before but this is my first group giveaway.  Even if you don't win the prizes below, that's ok because you can still take advantage of the discounts they are currently offering in their shops.

One lucky person will win ALL TEN of the following!

1) A pair of ivory flower earrings from Little White Chapel. Dainty and cute for wearing with any springtime outfit. LWC is offering 15% off your entire order when enter LWC15 during checkout. Good through March 31st. (Blog/Twitter)

2) An embroidered Moleskine notebook with with pink circles from Handmade: Modern. A different color scheme was recently featured in Better Homes & Gardens! Offering 20% off total order prior to shipping using coupon code PULPSUSHI until March 15th. (Blog/Twitter)

3) For the little one, an OOAK Vintage Fabric Appliqué Heart Lap Tee Size 18m-24m in Olive Green from Gnorasaurus.  All Gnorasaurus tees are made by hand, one at a time with durable, quality materials and expert finishing. Machine-washable.  Discount: 20% off using SUSHI at checkout. Expires 2/29 (Blog/Facebook/Twitter)

4) Stripped Linen Tissue Case from Polkadot Prettie's, it even comes with a pack of tissues to give you a start. (Blog/Facebook/Twitter)

5)A $20 shop credit to With Love Crochet. Readers can receive 10% off with coupon code PULPSUSHI10 expires Feb 29. (Blog/Twitter)

6) Medium Ad Space to promote your business or blog with the popular After Nine To Five for the month of March (Blog/Facebook/Twitter)

7) Valentine themed cup cozy from SewTara and free ad spot on their blog. Enter PULPSUSHI in their Etsy shop for 10% off orders during February. (Facebook/Twitter)

8) Mini Cupcake Bath Bomb Bakery Set from Unique Vintage. Bath bombs are solid moisture that soften in water, moisturize your skin, smell delightful, adds bubbles, all while soaking up the many relaxing natural salts in your bath. (Blog/Facebook/Twitter)

9) Cherry Red Pearl Coat necklace from Pulp Sushi (Facebook/Twitter) - my sale ends this Friday where you get 20% off your purchase using coupon code LOVEU20

10) This super cute Monster Cozy Keychain from Knot By Gran'ma  (Blog/Facebook/Twitter)

How do you win? By leaving comments in this post - Please include an email address where you can reached. See below.

-Required: Check out one or all of these shops and share an item that you like in the comments. Leave a comment for each item. The more items you share, the more chances you have of winning.  

-Additional entries: Follow one or all of these shops on Facebook, Twitter or their blog. Come back here and leave another comment sharing who you're following. 

-Send a Tweet! Share the following on your twitter: I just entered to win @pulpsushi Valentine's Giveaway on her blog. TEN prizes for one lucky winner! Ends 2/26 http://alturl.com/g7bqa

Comments will be approved first before publishing so don't think you're doing something wrong. ;) Contest ends Sunday February 26th. Winner will be announced on Thursday March 1st.

The Principles of Knitting :: Book Review

It has been about a year since I first picked up a pair of knitting needles.  Everything I know about knitting I've learned from friends and YouTube.   My stitching has gotten better but I'm still not past the scarf stage.

I love knitting, I knew I would.  I love creating something from scratch and see it's progression.  However I would like to learn other types of stitches and be able to create other kinds of pieces  besides scarves.  In comes The Principles of Knitting by June Hemmons Hiatt, coffee cup not included.

Originally  published in 1988, a revised and updated version is coming out next week  on the 14th - a great gift idea for the knitting love of your life perhaps? :) If you give as a gift, be prepared, this is probably the ULTIMATE How-To knitting book. No frills, straight-forward, almost like a textbook. It's pretty  heavy duty.

Definitely read the Introductions and Knitting Method (Chapter 1). Otherwise, you can jump around. If you're comfortable with the basics and there are techniques you are comfortable with, this is a great book to pick up new stitching techniques. Beginners are welcome too as this revision was written with you in mind, don't be intimidated.  This is the kind of book you will always refer back to and learn from.

DIY Upcycled Valentine's Jewelry

Sometimes the neatest things just appear in my inbox that I just gotta share here.  Jewelry is always a nice go-to gift for Valentine's Day but how about putting a fun recycled twist to it? That's where TerraCycle’s wrapper necklace craft project comes in.  Check out this neat tutorial on making beaded jewelry using Kraft Cheese wrappers.   Of course any kind of wrapper would do. :) 

TerraCycle’s Design Junkies have brought the beaded necklace into the real world with simple, do-it-yourself instructions available for download here: bit.ly/ValentineBraceletDIY.   Whether you make one for that special Valentine or one for each of your friends, recipients will be touched that you took the time to give them a heartfelt, handmade gift.

Finally, Valentine’s Day and candy go together like peas and carrots, but the packaging can be a real heartbreaker.  All those red and pink wrappers left over from sweet treats can be sent to TerraCycle through Mars’ Candy Wrapper Brigade to be recycled and earn money for charity.  Signing up is free and easy at www.terracycle.com.

 

A Gift From Me TO Me! =D

Who says that Etsy Jewelry folks don't purchase from other Jewelry sellers?  Hogwash I say!!! Recently I felt the urge to treat myself to a gift, a New Year's gift to myself.  It has been a LONG time since I purchased something on Etsy that wasn't supplies or a gift for someone else so I wanted something for me.  I wanted earrings.  Dangly earrings are the one thing I cannot leave the home without wearing.  And now that I have super short hair, they stand out even more. 

I purchased a pair of earrings from ReneeLoughlinDesigns - her Triangle Shield Earrings. 

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

I hearted Renee's shop a while ago and I absolutely love her style.  I'm so glad I finally purchased one of her items.  Her profile is so cute too: 

I love the sea. I would very much like to be a mermaid. I confess that I find math soothing. I love equations, formulas, and crossword puzzles.

You can follow Renee on Twitter & Facebook, I know I am! Tell Renee I said "Hi!" =D

Introducing: Enchanted Side Show

Ok! I was originally planning on sharing this with everyone next week but I just couldn't contain myself any longer. This is my first collection, I call it Enchanted Side Show - mid-century beadwork given a touch of boho luxe.

I have worked on these necklaces during my Holiday "break" and I'm so happy with how they look. I wanted to try something a little different and I think these came out pretty funky. All are fire-polished Czech glass beads.   There are more to come soon (just need to photograph).  These items were added to the Etsy shop yesterday. Click images to see the item listing.

Soon to be added are more necklaces, earrings & bracelets.  Stay tuned!

I want to learn to Crochet!

I've mastered the art of Knitting and Embroidery (no I haven't) and now the Crochet bug has bit me.  It started when a former coworker was trying to learn and she came to me knowing that I was "crafty" about how to get started.  She was referring to a video on YouTube and she just wasn't getting it.  I watched the clip and thought "Oh! I get it!".  I can't wait to get started.  In the meantime, let's look at some lovely crochet items I found on Pinterest.

Source: purlbee.com via Marta on Pinterest

Source: yvestown.com via Anna on Pinterest

Source: oneflewover-oneflewover.com via Kate on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Jaypeg on Pinterest

 

Maybe soon I'll be posting works of progress of my own. :)

Pulp Sushi in Beacon, NY TOMORROW!

Tomorrow I will be at Holiday Craft Fair #2 for this month and it's gonna be a long day too.  I will be at the beautiful Howland Cultural Center with members of the Hudson Valley Etsy Team

Cozy space, good thing I love my teammates! :) I actually have not touched my bag and suitcase from last Friday's show.  I made sure that when I packed up, I did it orderly and neatly so I didn't have to do the extra work later. Usually after a craft fair I just throw my items in the trays and sort them out later. I know, I'm a spazz.  Trying to get out of that habit.

If you happen to be in the area, it's also Second Saturday in Beacon where the stores and galleries are open later with new exhibits, wine, cheese, all that good stuff.  This Holiday Craft Fair will be right in the mix of all of that!

The Howland Cultural Center
477 Main Street
Beacon, NY

Here Comes The Bride...

No not me!  Silly!  I have been dying to share this post.  I was approach earlier this year about a custom order for a wedding.  It's my first wedding order and I was so happy and very nervous to do it.  I was asked by Holly to put together the jewelry for her bridal party of six. A pair of earrings and necklaces for each.  The hardest part was getting the right shade of green.

(Aren't they cute?)

 

 

I'm happy to report that everyone was pleased with the results, yay! It really is a testament to your work when a complete stranger approaches you to do something like this and be a part of their special day. Makes me know I'm doing the right thing. :)

Recommended Crafty Reads from Pulp Sushi

I've been sharing some book reviews lately on the blog. I wanted to do a quickie recap of what I've read just for Cyber Monday. I think each of these books would be great gift ideas for the Crafty McCraftster in your life. Perhaps you may want to learn a couple of new skills and want to make your own handmade gifts?  All books are under $18.00! =D

The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 :: Read my review

Gourmet Gifts :: Read my review

State of Craft :: Read my review

Embroider Everything Workshop :: Read my review

Embroider Everything Workshop - Book Review

I have another great book to share with you this week. Embroider Everything Workshop: The Beginner's Guide to Embroidery, Cross-Stitch, Needlepoint, Beadwork, Applique, and More

Diana Rupp, founder of Make Workshop in NYC, demonstrates how simple items can be made into something fabulous by just adding a few stitches.   I've tinkered with embroidery and cross-stitching and it's so refreshing to find a tutorial book with pizazz and attitude but still with clear instructions that's great for beginners.  Lots of photo references and diagrams too if you're a visual person like myself. I need to SEE what is being instructed. :)

The book is divided into two parts.  Part 1 is the Basics that introduces you to the embroidery technique from freehand and applique to needlework, smocking, openwork, beadwork, cross-stitch and more.   Part 2  are the Projects.  It has instructions that will put what you learned in Part 1 to use.  Plenty of cool projects like Light-as-a-Feather Doorstop, Needlework Necklace, Kimono Baby Booties and a Peony Jewelry Box.  Also included are 48 Transfer Patterns to use (awesome!).

What's neat about this book is that none of the projects seems like it would be too hard to do.  Once you get the hang of it, maybe develop some callouses on those fingers, you'll be going crazy embroidering everyting, like your skirt!

 

 

*State Of Craft* :: A Pre-Holiday Book Review

The craft revolution of the early 2000s gained early visibility with the renewed popularity of knitting, which in turn revived the dying arts of crochet, embroidery, bricolage and macramé, seeping from the fringes of the culture into its mainstream. In 2005, Victoria Woodcock and Ziggy Hanaor edited Making Stuff, one of the first alternative craft books to hit the shelves and draw the spotlight to this burgeoning movement. With State of Craft , Woodcock and Hanaor shake things up once again, offering a fully illustrated how-to guide for making everything from mobiles to lampshades. State of Craft features interviews and contributions from all the hottest international craft megastars including Tatty Devine, Urban Cross Stitch and DIY Couture. Clearly explained, step-by-step craft ideas range from homemade underwear to pompom necklaces and angle poise lamps made with jars.

I'm taking off a day early from this week's blogging adventures.  I hope everyone has a nice weekend!

BIG ASS CRAFT BOOK GIVEAWAY

Yes this deserves ALL FRIGGIN' CAPS!  Back in 2008 I had the pleasure of reviewing The Big Ass Book of Crafts by Mark Montano for Venuszine.com and gave it much praise. Fast forward three years and I'm happy to bring you Big Ass Book of Craft VOLUMNE 2! Bigger, Better, Sassier - although I would have gone with Bad Assier, but that's just me.  There are some great craft How To books out there but this is a must have. Look how nice it looks on my bookshelf

Mark's new book continues his visually stimulating acid-trip of over the top funky fresh craft projects with great instruction, photographs and sense of humor.  This book is sure to inspire and tap into one's creativity. Mark encourages readers to let go of their inhibitions and get crazy with a craft project, see where it leads!   The great thing about these projects is they can be made from everyday items.  Big Ass Book of Crafts 2 is full of ways to spice up your home decor, clothing and jewelry with a twist including how to trick out a pair of shoes, elbow length gloves and pinup paperweights.  Don't worry, there's fun for the kiddies too (alligator pillow anyone?)

Another thing I enjoy about Mark's books are his introductions to each project and section.  His writing style is very personable. He has a tale for the inspiration behind everything you see whether it's a trick he learned from his parents or from eating a can of Pringles.  It's a wonderful way to learn more about him. All of the photos are taken from Mark's home which is probably a Crafter's Museum at this point.   It is such a fun book and a must have for DIY lovers.

Win a free copy of Big Ass Book of Crafts 2

Domestic entries to USA only please.

Entering is simple:

-You must leave a comment in this post.  Tell me how much you want it! Or tell me what your must have craft supply is, is it glue? Is it glitter? Is it glitter glue?? Or maybe share a craft-related mishap you had.  I've had many mishaps when I tried to make my own soaps and candles, never again.

EXTRA ENTRIES (more chances to win)

-Tweet about the giveaway and leave an additional comment letting me know. You can cut & paste the following:  I just entered to win @MarkMontano 's book Big Ass Book of Crafts TWO at @pulpsushi blog http://alturl.com/qbcvt

-Follow me on Bloglovin' and leave a comment

-Follow Pulp Sushi on Twitter @pulpsushi

-Like Pulp Sushi on Facebook and leave a comment

The winner will be announced on Monday, October 24th.

July Recap and REAL TALK

It's the end of the month and if you missed some of my Blog Sponsor Sweetie posts, here they are : Just Because by LeeLee, Ms Bitty Knacks, The Nerdy Elephant (Fmr Sincerely,Putdar), After Nine To Five, Julie Ann Art, One Avian Daemon, Bibeez Baby, Hot Glue Hangover, Oh Yeah Cat Heads, Eden's Song, Cassia's Kitchen, Holly Bobb

 
I wanted to take a moment to give a special thanks to those who participated in a blog ad swap with me this month.  This was my first time trying something like this so I'm happy there was any kind of response.   Truth is I don't get hundreds and hundreds of views a day. I'm happy just to get 100! I also don't use this blog to make money. I use it to promote my shop which in turn will make me money (I hope) but I'm not one to seek out paid advertising. 

REAL TALK!

Of course I want this blog to be more than just my shop but sometimes I struggle with that part.  I don't like to photograph myself much so you won't see many pictures of me wearing pretty dresses from Ruche, Shabby Apple & ModCloth - because I don't own any, I wish I did. I don't get to go on many fun weekend getaways because of budget restraints so I can't share any tales like that.  I'm not a very good cook and I hardly ever get the chance to cook other than the weekends and even that is rare so I have no extravagant yummy recipes to share.  I don't talk much about my boyfriend here because he's a very private person and I respect that.  That birthday tribute I did for him last month is the most you'll probably get.

All I have are my shops, my blog reading obsessions, a day job I am desperate to get out of and my dreams which at times I think are too far fetched for me to reach. I'm trying to chip away at the wall I've built after previously being a little *too* open online years ago.  I am not knocking any other blogs that may include the stuff I mentioned above because I love visiting them, my Bloglovin' account is full of them.  Just bear with me while I continue to get comfortable with my online voice. :)

Blog Sponsor Sweetie: Eden Song Essentials

Stephanie's passion for organics grew into her business, Eden Song, where she is always striving for perfection. Her unbending purist attitude towards raw living edible natural organic ingredients has drawn clients from around the world, inspiring her to be the best she can be, and she is grateful for each and every one of you!

Pulp Sushi Artist - Molly Shoelace

As Pulp Sushi continues to grow, I would like to be able to share the talent that has gone on this new journey with my new shop.   So let's have it, meet Molly Shoelace!

Her whimsical, colorful motifs are inspired by her notebook doodles, daydreams, visions of love, culinary adventures, and all the strange and wonderful things that happen around her each day.  Naturally she would be one of the first people I would reach out to about selling some of her work in my shop.  The above are just some of the items you will find from Molly at Pulp Sushi along with her Bird Wrist Pin Cushion. 

I first met Molly when we both joined The {NewNew} Etsy team back in 2008. Here's a picture of us selling at the first Holiday Handmade Cavalcade in NYC.

She has since moved to Los Angeles were MShoelace has really taken off.  Thank you Molly!

I am accepting items on consignment.  If you think your items might be a fit, please email at  consignment@pulpsushi.com for more details, also read more about the shop wishlist here.

Blog Sponsor Sweetie: Bibeez Baby

 
 
Bibeez Baby more than just kid stuff. You'll also find super cute clutches, coin purses and bags.

Bibeez Baby is all about quality, custom creations that we use everyday. A hooded towel that is larger and more absorbent, a bib that has snaps instead of hook and loop closure, burp cloths that have flair and are super soft; all handmade for your custom order.

Read more about Frances and her business at her Bibeezbaby Blog and Etsy shop

Blog Sponsor Sweetie: After Nine To Five

I follow Ashley everywhere. This blog is a daily read and she will soon be teaching her own e-course Blog 101 starting August 1st.

Check out her shop After Nine To Five where she sells jewelry, prints and cute little zipper pouches.