A color chart

As I mentioned in a previous post, choosing colors has become one of the biggest challenges when I print.  Trying to figure out which colors will match all decor is near impossible.  That is why I offer custom color combinations for most of my designs.  This allows you to take a design you like and choose the colors that will match your room.  I have created colors to match  fabric samples and pantone swatches for people who are super particular (keep in mind they are matched by eye and not computer so the colors are close but not exact).  There are millions of shades of color.  To streamline the process of choosing colors I've created a Skårt color chart.  I have taken the standard colors that I use most often (with extensive research using the PBkids paint chart and Crayola crayon naming system) and created a chart of named colors for customers to refer to and choose from.  I'm sure it will change and grow as styles change.  For now here is version 1.0 --  Let me know if there is a shade missing that you would like to see.

Which is better the Kindle or the ipad?

Oh, I'm not talking about the products, I'm talking about the commercials! 

Apple has been known for their innovative advertising campaigns, however, I have to give the prize to Amazon this time. The commercials for the Kindle are so whimsical and fun.   And I'm not just saying that because I did the set design for their latest one.  (although I suppose that would make me a little bias) -- 

what do you think? 

New Skårt: Love Birds

Available in a variety of colors.  Click here to find out more about this piece. 

Can I get a "Hoot Hoot" -- The Owls are Here

Introducing my newest series: Night Owls.  

Featuring 3 different owls which are available in standard and custom colors, as a set or individually.   

You may notice (especially if you were a crafter in the 70's) that I  took  a lot of inspiration for the shapes and lines of my owls from Macrame.  

Even the colors I chose to print in are a little retro -- Avocado Green and Sunglow Yellow -- Visit skartshop online  to see more colors. 

My First Show

I unofficially announced it a few months ago on Facebook, and now I'm making the official announcement: I am going to be in the One of a Kind Show this year in Toronto.

 GULP!!! Really?!!! 

Not only is this my first show and it's HUGE!!! I have to figure out all the logistics of booth design, creating merchandise AND shipping it all to Toronto!!! 

**deep breaths, deep breaths** 

-- 2 months away.  No problem!!! Anyone have advice to offer? ... newbie here trying to figure it all out.  

Stay tuned for stories of how my prep is going as well as discounts and info about the show.  

From now until Sept 20th -- they are offering half price tickets.   Click here for details. 

Why Blog?

This summer has been filled with lots of travels and work.  With the constant go go go and lack of routine it became hard to maintain a regular blogging schedule.  I know so many people who have started their own blogs with the best intentions but fizzle out after a few months.  Lots of people state, “I have a blog” or “I want to start a blog”.  What do they need to blog about? I began to question the idea of blogging itself.  Why blog?

According to Blogger (where this blog is hosted) A Blog is a place to “ Share your thoughts Photos and more with your friends and the world.” Typepad (another host site) says “ A blog is a simple, cost-effective way to create a professional online presence”

I Blog to remember.  Blogging is definitely self indulgent.  It’s MY log on the web.  I love looking back at old posts and remembering events or moments I posted about.  I’ve actually been keeping journals since high school this is just a more modern way of chronicling events and lessening the clutter on my bookshelves. 

I Blog to share.  I started my first Blog when my husband and I moved to California.  We were so far from our friends and family.  Maintaining a blog was a way to keep them updated on what we were doing.   Now I share to allow people interested in my art to know a little more about me. I hope that this blog makes the experience of buying something from me a little more personal.

I Blog to promote.  I am running a business.  Blogging is a great way to interact with current and potential customers.    It is a way to introduce new products and designs and run promotions.  Blogging increases my presence on the web and helps people find me. I also try to make a point of featuring other crafters and small business entrepreneurs on my blog, creating a network of promotions.

I Blog to create.  I love making my SKidea boards.  As a designer it’s  fun for me to search the web for new products, cute bedding and accessories for kids.  It also keeps me on top of new designs for children’s rooms and what the current trends are.   After making a SKidea board I will have a million ideas and inspirations for  new series.

I Blog to entertain.  Sometimes, a blog post can be nothing but entertaining.  Sometiems I will post a funny story or picture, a  link to another site or blog I like, or a tidbit on the latest celebrity I’ve worked with. 

My aim is to Blog once a week.  We all know that is a bit ambitious but it can’t hurt to make that my goal.  I don’t have any great message or revelation I need to share with the world. This Blog is just a humble way of chronicling my journey through life, art and business.  

 

Inspiration: Birds

Bird themed nurseries are big this year. My modern and whimsical Aviary print is available in a variety of colors to match your personal take on the theme. Below are some ideas how to incorporate feathered friends into your nursery decor.

Nest Chair - okay, maybe this is a bit over the top, but the design is so interesting by Nina Bruun
Ceramic Bird Lamp - (available in other colors) made by Perch
Bird Silhouette Mirror by Ed Annink for Driade available at Unica Home
Crocheted Bird Rattles are hand made and available on Etsy at Born With It
The Aviary in Turquoise by yours truly at Skartshop
Fabric birds on Branches - Learn how to DIY over at Spool or buy ready made at Baby Jives Etsy Shop
Paper Birds Mobile - Another great DIY project brought to you by Martha Stewart. There is also no shame in cheating and buying a ready made kit from KB Paper Creations on Etsy
Little Tree 4 piece bedding set - The set & matching accessories made by Migi
Wood Birdie Bookends - handmade and available on Etsy at The Wooden Owl
Bird on a Wire Coat Rack - available at Huset