hbDesign's Blog

So Much NEW!

2011-08-02T03:17:00.008-05:00

Wow! It's been a long time since I've done a decent update on here. I'm sorry everyone. So here's what's been going on as of late.

-New Jelly and Cream filled Doughnut Plushies! In Fun and Mini sizes. So cute!

-July 24th was the 4th Annual Caffetto Craft Fair! Theresa and I were there selling all my fun dinks, plushies and other fun wears! It was a pretty nice day and we didn't do to bad either. Hopefully we can make it again next year. Here's some pics from the table set up.

-Two words: Wonder Knitter! <3

-Here's some examples of the cool, new duck tape beads from my jewelry classes at work. They are pretty fun and easy to make, plus you can make them in any color duck tape you like.

- I'm still working on myself, I'm down 50 lbs! That's a pretty big accomplishment if you ask me!

- My new pal Lauren and I had our 1st craft group meet up, we're calling it MinneCraftapolis! Pretty sweet, right? I take the credit for that one. We welcome crafters from any town, I'm from Owatonna, we just meet up in or near Minneapolis. Hehe. Our 1st meet up we made fun decoupaged gift boxes, like the pink one I made below. We're planning our 2nd meet up later in the month, stay tuned!

MinneCraftapolis
Min·ne·craft·ap·o·lis
[min-ee-kraft-ap-uh-lis]
–noun
1. a craft group, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota
2. a monthly meet up, to learn new techniques and projects
3. a fun night to create and bitch
4. a growing collaborated group of fierce and artistic individuals
5. a place to share skills or abilities used for bad purposes; cunning; deceit

Group Motto:
"Grab It... and Mod Podge The Shit Out Of It!"

Getting Personal: Update #1

2011-07-03T22:33:00.006-05:00

So I had a very busy Spring, and we are revisiting some topics from a previous post, 'Getting Personal'. Here's the gist of what went on April, May & June.

Changes continue at PT Job #1 and I put in my two weeks notice at PT Job #2.
I'm 25 now and I did get my small tattoo.
Enjoyed a long, cold, but fun day at the Craftstravaganza Craft Fair.
My little sister's Bachelorette Party, Bridal Shower, Rehearsal and Wedding all went well with lots on fun and smiles.
Plus my speech was sweet and humorous, considering I wrote it the night before. Not too bad, if I don't say so myself. :-P

As far as those short term goals go, let's see where we're at.

Finish projects that I owe people (Marcy, Karlisha, my sister & my mom).

That didn't happen, maybe some for my sister, but not so much anyone else. Sorry.

Have a fun (wedding) and profitable (craft fair) Spring.

Very true for both, I already participated in a 2nd craft fair and I got accepted into a 3rd. I'm also applying for 1, if not 2, more.

Look harder for a FT Job (and if that pans out, move out of my mother's house).

Yea, working 7 days a week for weeks on end, I barely get to sleep. We'll work on this one after I'm finished with PT Job #2.

And work on myself... This is going to be the hardest... in the short term, losing 20 lbs. for my sister's wedding.

This was actually the easiest one. From March to June I actually lost 40 lbs. That's like an average 5 year old girl, if you need a visual.

Other new things:

I'm the new Jewelry Instructor at work! If you want to learn some basic Fundamentals or maybe just re-familiarize yourself with them, stop on by my Michaels and sign up! There's also some fun Camp Chic Jewelry Classes this summer. Playing with duck tape, safety pins, leather, etc.
I will be participating in the 4th Annual Caffetto Craft Fair on July 24th! At Caffetto Coffee Shop, 708 W. 22nd Street, from 11am - 6pm.
I hope it's a fun and not too hot of a day.
My friend Christina will be visiting from Portland!
My new pal Lauren, who put together the Unraveled DIY Festival, and I are planning on starting a local craft group. Each month we choose a new craft and we get a whole bunch of people together to learn it! (Costs for materials, but otherwise free tutorials & space.) Let me know if you're interested in participating! Or maybe you have a good name for the group?
Same old, same old as far as love and personal life goes, but it looks like things are picking up in the right direction.

So we'll see how the next couple months progress and I'll keep everyone posted on new and major events.

The Unraveled DIY Festival

2011-06-17T02:07:00.004-05:00

hbDesigns' was at the 1st year Unraveled DIY Festival! Geared towards the DIY Generation and presented by Textile Center, in conjunction with the 2011 International Surface Design Association Conference, held at the Rapson Architecture Center (U of M, Mpls). The event wasn't as widely popularized as Craftstravaganza, but for it's first year, I did make a few sales, so I was glad to take the day off to participate and meet new people.

Maid of Honor

2011-06-09T12:36:00.012-05:00

My little sister's wedding was last month and I was her Maid of Honor. It was a tough job, but I feel that I handled it well and got the job done. With my sister's ok, I wanted to share the speech I have at the reception dinner. I'm not big on public speaking, so I tried to make it funny with a little bit of emotion.

The speech goes, as follows:

Hello everyone, for those of you who don’t know me, my name is Heather and I am Theresa’s older sister and Maid of Honor for this special day.

Now Theresa, you may not remember this, but when you were born, I became a very proud “BIG SISTER.” I would show you off to EVERYONE, like a prize I had just won from the fair. Shortly after that you were the perfect accessory for playtime, like: the most polite guest during tea, the Skipper to my Barbie or the cleaning lady when we played house. I was grateful to have you as my little sister, it meant twice as many toys and you always let me have first choice for the good ones.

Then as we got older you would tag along with my friends and me wherever we went, say silly things to embarrass or get me into trouble. I won’t even talk about high school. It made me wish that mom and dad had mailed you in a box to Abu Dhabi or that you had run away and joined the circus.

Later on when I was in college, I would look forward to seeing you at home on weekends or volunteering you for projects without really asking in advance. For example, having you model like a prostitute, letting me throw empty cans at you for a photo shoot or helping me paint and hang my senior show in one afternoon. It gave us a chance to talk about life, boys (ahem) and what things not to tell our parents.

Now we’re here today; after all the laughs, stress acne and recent leg pains, celebrating yours and Mike’s new life together. I am glad that we kept YOU. I should actually thank mom and dad for not mailing you off in a box with some holes cut into it or that they didn’t let you learn how to walk on the high wire.

I am still a very proud “BIG SISTER,” and now twice as much, since I have you and a new brother-in-law. Thank you, Mike. I hope you two have a very HAPPY and WONDERFUL life together, because the current cost for shipping to Abu Dhabi is about $650.60.

I even made the cake topper they cut into for their cake pictures!

2011 Craftstravaganza!!!

2011-05-03T06:01:00.013-05:00

This past weekend was the 6th Annual Craftstravaganza, a local Urban Craft Fair held at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds' Fine Arts Building. There were over 70 artists, including 34 artisans new to the show (yours truly, of course, was one of them) and thousands of returning attendees. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees browsed tables bursting with handmade crafts and met creators. The Minnesota Center for Book Arts and the Textile Center were also conducting workshops throughout the day. The first 100 shoppers received free swag bags with samples of vendors’ work and other goodies. This was my/hbDesigns very first craft fair, aside from the MCAD Art Sale, and I had no clue as to how I would do. Well as it turns out, people really do like my work and even bought some!

My first customer of the morning told me that she skipped breakfast to wait in line so she could see ME and buy 1 specific Shrinky Dink pendant. (Which I only had 1 of!) So that kinda made my day from the get go, despite the cold.

My little sister, Theresa was a great help! I could not have done this without her. You defiantly need two people at a table to run an event like that. We took a few snap shots of my table/set up/display, what ever you want to call it. Considering I made enough to cover the vendor fee, motel, gas and food, I would consider this event to be a great success! I hope Andy & Jen let me come back next year! This was a lot of fun!

hbDesigns also had a nice, little shout out from Betsy, the woman behind the Minneapolis Career Girl Blog! Also be sure to check out my Etsy and be a fan on Facebook for a discount!

Holiday Cards

2011-03-15T16:56:00.007-05:00

Last winter I put together some Holiday Cards for a local card/printing company. I never got around to posting them. So here we go, better late then never! Enjoy.

Getting Personal

2011-03-12T11:23:00.010-06:00

A lot of things are going on this Spring. Here's the bullet points for you:

Major changes at 1 PT job, smaller changes at the other PT Job.
My birthday is coming up at the end of the month, I'll be 25.
So, for my quarter-life crisis I'm getting a small tattoo.
Making products for the Craftstravaganza Craft Fair.
Preparing for it as well, taking credit cards, getting tables, displays, etc.
Planning my little sister's Bachelorette Party, so making lists, invites, reservations, etc.
The wedding is in May, so I need to write a speech too.

Which leads into the getting personal portion... I'm not even sure if anyone reads this blog anyways, but here goes.

I've hit a point in my life where changes, as you read above are becoming bigger and bigger... I've hit a wall with my personal life, my appearance and my self esteem. Some of you, who know me more in real life, might think that's silly, because I'm almost always a happy, positive, friendly person. Most of the time, that's true, I like being a positive beacon for my friends and family to rely on... but sometimes the fact that I feel very alone comes crashing down on me and it's quite depressing... Now, I'm not saying I'm depressed. I just feel some things need to change in order for me to be able to pick myself back up when I need to. So here's what's going to happen... Short term goals:

Finish projects that I owe people (Marcy, Karlisha, my sister & my mom).
Have a fun (wedding) and profitable (craft fair) Spring.
Look harder for a FT Job (and if that pans out, move out of my mother's house).
And work on myself... This is going to be the hardest... in the short term, losing 20 lbs. for my sister's wedding.

After this Spring, I hope to come back and reflect on these goals and then set some new one and some longer ones. One of the more important ones, being my health/weight. I mean, I know I'm 'cute,' but things could be better. #narcissism? Now, if I seem like I'm falling off the wagon, please remind me to keep my butt in gear! I hope to at least keeps tabs on myself at least through my Twitter, maybe Facebook, we'll see. For example, walking/jogging on days off or days where I have shorter shifts. Strength/bands on day's I work longer ones. Oh, and keeping regular sleeping patterns, that might help for sure.

I hope that wasn't too self revealing. I'm usually an open book, but in most cases someone else has to turn the pages for me to talk about this kind of stuff. I hope all is well with everyone else.

PSA Thursday

2011-03-10T14:11:00.000-06:00

Keep you promises! If you say you're going to do something, be somewhere, then DO IT… Now, I know life happens, so when it does, just be straight forward and reschedule if possible. Leaving people 'hanging' is just rude, in my opinion.

PSA Thursday

2011-02-17T15:32:00.000-06:00

When you get invited to a show or outing and the person who invited you didn't ask you to cover the price of the ticket or admission. It would be polite to at least offer to buy them a drink or something before, during or after the event. Kindness wears down on people and they need to be offered some in return otherwise it will fade.

Helpful Donations

2011-02-16T22:16:00.005-06:00

Hey Everyone! As you may remember from my last post, I got into Craftstravaganza, a one day craft fair at the end of April. I'm super excited, but I'm also worried about the cost. The cost for the space, getting tables and display supplies plus the cost of materials to make product is adding up fast!

Here's where you, my loyal fans and friends, can help me out! You know that shirt you have in the back of the closet, the one that doesn't fit anymore or has maybe a couple holes in it, but other then that it's still in pretty decent shape... Well I'm looking for those kinds of shirts. Jersey knitted ones (that stretch), so I can make some of my necklaces.

I'm going to list all my sponsors/donors not only here on my blog, but also if you would like in exchange a felt fortune cookie or mustache key chain I would he happy to make you one.

Here's what I'm looking for the left and center t-shirts will work, they are plain, or mostly plain, stretch and it's nice that they don't have side seams. The right one is an example of one that won't work, it has a felted/texture to it that wont stretch. But I'm happy with what ever you are willing to part with... If I don't use it, you could have it back or I'll donate it to the Steele County Clothesline.

If anyone has any other thoughts/idea/suggestions I'm happy to hear them. I've never done a craft fair, so I'm learning a lot. I already have a mannequin that a friend is letting me barrow and my mom is getting some tables and I'm using the Cricut at work to make my sign, so if you have any other ideas, let me know.

I'm also be in the market for more felt, beads of most kinds, cheap displays or DIY ideas for them.

PSA Thursday

2011-02-03T14:28:00.003-06:00

I'm starting a new segment called PSA (Public Service Announcement) Thursday. It's just my rants on common sense stuff, some to do with politeness others from personal experiences. I hope you at least take a moment to read them and maybe it will make at least someone out there a better person. Thanks!

PSA #1
If someone leaves/sends you an email, message, text, etc. please have the courtesy to reply. Even if it's a negative response, it's better then not replying at all. I'll admit, I can see exceptions to this idea, but for everyday friends and acquaintances it would just be more polite.

Craftstravaganza 2011 Acceptence!

2011-01-28T14:35:00.002-06:00

Some of you may remember this image from last May, where Marisa and I went up to the MN State Fair grounds to look around and shop for handmade goodness!

This year (even with a small email hiccup) I made it in! I'm super excited. I do however have to start working by toosh off to get product made! So if it all works out, I expect to see a lot of you there, at least to say hi and check out ALL of the awesome handmade crafts for sale.

Learning Something New

2011-01-11T23:57:00.010-06:00

And then share what you learned with others. That's how I roll. I went to a fun craft gathering the other day and learned how to make necklaces out of jersey knit t-shirts. So simple, they are totally going into my repertoire.

Supplies: A t-shirt (old, new, whatever, as long as it's a knit that stretches), a scissors, some thread and a needle. (You can also had beads (larger ones) if you so choose.

(Note: I happen to be using a shirt with no seams on the sides, you will most likely want to cut those off, use your best judgment.)

Step One: Trim off the bottom seams and then begin cutting 3/4 - 1 In. strips, lengthwise, across the shirt. You will more then likely be cutting up most of the shirt (at least to the armpits).

Step Two: Stretch out each strip, if your seams don't break, you're most likely going to want to cut them anyways, this is up to you though. Once I had all my strips stretching I cut them to the lengths I wanted and lined them up shortest to longest. Since I didn't have any seams, I could cut where ever.

Step Three: Run a needle up and down each side of your strips (I went in the same order). After doing both sides, I stitch them together. I just used a piece of the hem I cut off and used that to hide the stitches. (Just sewing the ends and flipping it over.)

And Ta Da! A fun new piece to wear. Color and options are limitless. This is a great way to recycle/reuse older shirts or ones you can't wear anymore for some reason. Feel free to experiment with how you hide your seams.

Blog Transfer

2010-12-29T17:39:00.011-06:00

I decided to get rid of my Word Press Blog. I tried it, but I have a hard enough time trying to keep one blog updated, let alone two. Turns out you can't delete Word Press accounts, so it get's to waste space on the internet as an inactive blog. Seams silly to me.

October! Halloween themes and Birthdays.

Thanksgiving!

Christmas Cakes, Chocolate Fix & Red Velvet Cupcakes.

St. Patrick's Day Toppers.

Dad's 50th Birthday Cake.

Happy Halloween Cupcakes!

Dharma Cupcakes and Valentine Cupcakes w/ Stencils.

And with Green Cupcakes, you need Green Punch!

St. Patrick’s Day Party Punch (Alcoholic)

Ingredients:
2 (12 oz) cans frozen limeade concentrate
2 (12 oz) cans frozen lemonade concentrate
2 (2 liter) bottles lemon-lime flavored carbonated soda (I used Sprite)
1 (750 milliliter) bottle rum (I used Bacardi Superior)
2 quarts lime sherbet

In a large pot, combine limeade, lemonade and lemon-lime soda. Stir in rum. Mix in the lime sherbet. (Cuts in 1/2 really well.)

The Hop, a fundraiser in Owatonna for the Clothes Line.

A 6 Layered Rainbow Cake for TB's 21st Birthday

Vegan Chocolate Cake/Cupcakes

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup white sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
1 cup water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease one 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt. Add the oil, vanilla, vinegar and water. Mix together until smooth.

Pour into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes for cake (adjust for cupcakes). Remove from oven and allow to cool. Frost.

Betty Crocker Apple Pie
(Tip: Lime Juice keeps the apples green while you're prepping the rest of the pie)

Yarn Weaths

2010-12-29T16:45:00.013-06:00

Supplies: A styrofoam wreath (you could use a straw wreath), yarn, felt, scissors, glue (I used a hot glue gun), and any other embellishments your like. Michael's has great berries and glittery picks around the holidays.

Step 1: I take 3 In strips of felt and glue then around the wreath for more cushion or keep the plastic wrapping on the straw wreath. This makes it easier to wrap your wreaths.

Step 2: Wrap your wreath with yarn. You can either start by making a knot, but I just used hot glue. You will want to keep it tight and keep in mind that it is close to impossible to have the yarn perfectly lined up on the entire wreath, so this may take you a while. Thicker yarn goes faster, but it will create a different look. Try different yarns out!!!

Step 3: Making the felt flowers.

Cut a circle out of felt. The bigger the circle, the bigger the flower.
Cut around the outside of the circle to make it have a waved look.
Pick any point on the circle to start cutting the felt. you will be cutting a large spiral shape so that you will end up with one long thin strip of felt.
When you get to the very end you will have a circle or oval shape left that you will want to leave and not cut into. this will be the base of your flower.

Take the end of the felt where you began cutting and start to roll. You will want to keep it tight in the beginning so it holds. if you want a smaller more circular flower keep it tight. if you want it to have a more open look you can keep it a little more loose as you roll it.

Once you get to the end you will glue the bottom onto the flower.
Make as many flowers as you'd like. I made mine a few different sizes and colors.

Step 4: Glue and place them randomly and add any other embellishments that you would like.

Step 5: You can add a ribbon, raffia, twine, fabric, etc to hang your wreath with. I just use a wreath hook though.

From Halloween!

2010-11-09T02:49:00.003-06:00

Can you figure it out...? Yes, I was 'Snakes On A Plane' for Halloween, even though I have never seen the movie.

This was a fun & spooky Halloween Care Package I sent to a lot of my friends both in MN and out of state. Like: Casey in WI, Trista in CO and Christina in OR. I hope everyone enjoyed them. I know the 'hay' was kinda mean. :P

In each of the packages I made fun, somewhat, personalized tombstones for each of my buddies hand painted out of Styrofoam, along with treats and other fun little goodies.

MCAD Art Sale Enteries

2010-11-08T23:15:00.005-06:00

The following pieces are entered into the MCAD Art Sale! This is the first time I've actually participated, so I'm going to be optimistic about it. I hope you can go and check it out!

Minneapolis College of Art and Design

2501 Stevens Ave South

Minneapolis, MN
Friday, November 19 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Now in its 13th year, the MCAD Art Sale is a Minnesota tradition annually held the weekend before Thanksgiving.

Eye-catching, one-of-a-kind art created by MCAD students and recent graduates at unbeatable prices. Thousands of pieces. Every piece less than $1000. Average price less than $100.

Since its inception the sale has generated more than $1,000,000 for emerging artists. All Art Sale proceeds go to support individual artists or the MCAD Art Sale Scholarship Fund.

Tickets $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
Buy tickets here: http://bit.ly/9Pxizv
Valet parking $5.

Update Via Photos!

2010-09-18T19:43:00.006-05:00

New biz cards!!!

Super Large Octopus Plushy!!! More then likely he's going on the MCAD Art Sale! Very exciting!

New set of Dinks! Some fresh Cupcakes Earrings and a whole bunch of new styles!

I made this special for my sisters graduation today! It's styled after the flowers on her biz card that I designed for her.

My little sister is a college grad.

Afterwards we went to Olives in Mankato, MN and this is sober!

I also sent this care package to my friend Christina, cuz she was sick and now she's feeling better (that was more due to the meds, but she's happy enjoying chocolates and such too!)

Last, but not least, I got my 1st check from the Design Collective Mpls! Very exciting for sure and I hope the 1st of many in the future!

Contract Work for MyExpressions.com

2010-09-07T21:28:00.004-05:00

I've been working on some Holiday Card designs for MyExpression.com. Here's what I've flushed out so far.

hbDesigns On the The Design Collective's Site!

2010-09-04T22:15:00.003-05:00

Click photo to link to bio page

hbDesigns Available @ The Design Collective

2010-08-23T03:12:00.007-05:00

And what's this?! hbDesigns can now also be found at the Design Collective in Mpls (26th & Hennepin)!!! There are all kinds of earrings, some necklaces, plushies, like Larry the Octopus and my 'Staches on a Stick!

Also new for hbDesigns are my 'Shop Local MN' Earrings and State of MN plushies!!!

I've also been trying to sell my wears at the Owatonna Farmers Market. I haven't been very successful, but any kind of exposure helps.

My friend Jen also gave me 2 large bags of FELT!!! I'm so excited to start some large scale projects after I stock up on some 'Staches on a Stick. There are some awesome colors and I'm excited to use all of it!

Street Art - the Art of the People show at the ColorWheel

2010-08-10T01:07:00.004-05:00

(Info via Tammy Ortegon)
Sunday, August 15th from 12:00pm to 8:00pm.
ColorWheel Gallery 319 W 46th St. (46th & Grand) South Minneapolis. (612 823 5693)

Join the ColorWheel Gallery & our neighbors as we celebrate art & community with a day of festivities. LIVE ART being created outside all day, a Young Artists Wall, Funky jewelry by Ideal Jewels, Zarmonia, Gretchen Grace & Cheri Meyer. 'Staches on a Stick & Toxic Cupcake Earrings by hbDesigns (aka ME!), Feathers & Funky Cold Fedoras, Feminist t-shirts, Eco-friendly silk scarf halter tops, Change our World art prints & greeting cards by Ricardo Levins Morales, paintings by Jonathan Roberts, Taylor Lindgren, Tammy Ortegon, Eileen Espinosa, Gloria Larsen, Lothan Thomas, Eddie Ortegon & more! LIVE ART making outside all day . Taylor Lindgren will be demonstrating his aerosol & stencil art style starting at 2pm.

Enjoy amazing food, drinks, sweets, music, specials & surprises all on the same corner with our great neighbors- Cafe Ena, Kings Wine Bar & the new Patisserie 46.

Kings will be celebrating their one year birthday this day, enjoy burgers, brats, specials on beer & wine, local music on the patio from 12-8pm with 'The Mad Ripple Kings Marathon Hootenanny'. During the show there will be a Flea Market SALE! featuring fun & funky items, art & jewelry making supplies, unique & antique odds & ends, global, lovely treasures & so much more!!!

I'm going to try to make it. Most likely I will have to work at some point that day, but it would be cool if someone wanted to check it out with me!

Facebook

2010-08-03T13:22:00.005-05:00

Hey everyone, I didn't know if you were aware of this or not, but hbDesigns has it's own page on Facebook. I try to keep up with it and check in daily versus the random post I do here on my blog. And with all the new excitement about selling my stuff in shops it a great way to stay informed. I hope you check it out and hopefully 'LIKE' it as well. Hehe.

Click here, to go there. ;-)

hbDesigns Available @ The Colorwheel!!!

2010-07-31T22:03:00.007-05:00

So... Remember that news I had about possibly selling some of my 'Staches on a Stick at a local gallery shop? Well it's a reality!!! I dropped off my 'Staches and some earrings at the Collorwheel (46th & Grand) last Friday before work and there is so much there to see + you can get a hair cut! (If you book an appt a head of time, of course.) Tammy is really nice and loves to chat about all kinds of art! Tammy's mom (mother-in-law? I don't remember which) is a painter and the pet portraits are amazing! Please check out her shop, there are so many fun things to see!

The 4 styles of my 'Staches on a Stick

Toxic Cupcake Earrings

White Cupcake Earrings

Mini Cupcakes Earrings

State of MN Earrings

NEW!!! 'Stache for your Keys!

The Triangle designs are not available at the Colorweel, they were more for my experimentation with the Shrinky Dinks + paint pens. You are more then welcome to contact my directly if you would like to buy one or ask for something custom made. ^_^.

T. 1

T. 2

T. 3

Larry the Octopus

2010-07-24T02:29:00.008-05:00

This cute little guy's name is Larry, he's a plushy octopus with bendable tentacles. He's a great little computer companion, watching over your shoulder for spelling mystakez*. Just watch out in the night, he doesn't like to sleep alone, so he may sneak up next to you to sleep. His 6 (yes 6!) tentacles are all hand stitched with brightly colored suktion* cups to he can stick by your side. Specs: He's navy felt with lime green stitching, about 9-10 inches tall from head to tips (of tentacles) and is $25.00. Kind of a timely creature to make, but SO cute and worth it in the end. ^_^.

*Larry was out getting a fish snack and wasn't here to check my spelling.

Sorry Ya'll!

2010-07-22T13:42:00.005-05:00

WOW, it's been a month since I've posted anything. I'm sorry everybody. Unfortunately there hasn't been too much going on, I just work a lot. Having 2 part time jobs that I have to drive to (45-50 min away) eats up a lot of my free time. Plus all of my friends are either back in Mpls, out of state or in other countries. No fun for the HB, sad to say. I try to keep busy with my projects but even then I easily get distracted.

Sorry something shiny caught me eye. ;-)

Ok, so I'm not ADD/ADHD and I'm not making fun of people who are, I just miss my old life (well my life circa Summer 2008 - Summer 2009) so I try to do a lot of different things to keep the boredom at bay. So if anyone ever wants to visit my little town, say hi and hang out, let me know, otherwise, I'm driving up to the burbs all the time for work anyways.

I'll be doing a photo dump here soon, I do have a few new things to share with everyone. The onesie I made, the felt hearts and I'm currently working on an octopus, but he's taking a lot of time since he has more details to flush out.

On more note, there MIGHT be a gallery show in the works this Dec! I'm not sure what kind of stuff I would want to put up yet, I have old MCAD drawings, photos, digital illustrations, my tees, my plushies... SO if anyone has a vote/ suggestion or whatever please feel free to comment your thoughts! The owner of the gallery also SEEMED interested in my 'Staches on a Stick so maybe she would be willing to sell them in her Salon/Gallery/Shop. I was hoping to go to her next show opening up on Aug 15th. It's called Street Art - The Art of the People, it's at the Colorwheel Gallery in Minneapolis. If someone wants to go with me, please drop me a line ASAP.

'Staches On A Stick

2010-06-22T21:26:00.005-05:00

Some more craft-i-ness! 'Staches On A Stick! Now available in 4 fun styles.

The Elliott

The Selleck

The Hutz

The Taft

And just for fun Thai with a Fu Manchu 'Stache On A Stick.

hbDesigns Plushies 1.0

2010-06-22T20:45:00.006-05:00

So I'm still playing with this idea of crafting (and maybe someday selling, prolly on Etsy or at Craft Fairs) small fun plushies, but it's hard to know what's gonna be a big hit and what's gonna fall through the cracks... I'm still playing with foods, I know it looks just like breakfast, but I'm still working on it. But being crafty and creative really makes me happy, seeing people happy from things I made, really makes me happy.

IF YOU!!! Yes, you, have any ideas, fun suggestions or thoughts to be made out of felt, PLEASE share them with me...

Fortune Cookie with a luv note.

Eggy

Eggy & Bacon!

BACON!!!

Doughnut with Sprinkles

I think the toast (with removable butter, for fewer calories ^_^.) needs a different kind of stitch. Hmm...
Oh! And a mini sprinkle doughnut.

Wearables!

2010-06-05T01:03:00.004-05:00

Today I made some sweet felt plushie headbands! A Rice Ball, some Sushi and a Mini Cupcake!!! All for $8 bucks each! What a steel for all my hard work. ^_^. Or maybe you have an idea of your own, let me know!

Cheap & Dirty Screen Printing Tutorial

2010-06-02T01:22:00.006-05:00

Materials needed: A t-shirt, paint brushes, straw - if desired, an embroidery hoop, (bull clip +) card board, screen printing ink (I use Speedball brand), a glue that isn't water-soluble (I use Mod Podge), a sheer netted material/old nylons, and a computer with a printer (or a good hand for drawing things).

Find an image you like and that has good contrast. Print it out so the image is the size you want it on the t-shirt

After pulling the sheer material/old nylons tight across the embroidery hoop (and screwing it shut really good), trace the image onto the material with a pencil with the material close to the paper, not upside down so it's far away. Turn the thing over and with the glue, paint all the "negative space," (all the places you don't want ink to go, the white space). Make sure the material isn't touching whatever surface you're working on otherwise you'll end up gluing the whole thing down.
After the glue dries (I recommend a test print 1st to see if you need to touch up any areas with more glue), center the image on the shirt face down, and I sort of stipple the ink through the material, I used a straw to move drop the ink and then a bull clip + card board to make sure it was fully saturated, but also making sure not to glob it all over the place.
Carefully peel it back, wait for it to dry, and follow the "setting" directions on the ink (mine is to iron it on medium 3 - 5 minutes each side with a piece of cloth/paper between the iron and the ink). Be sure to wash your screen right away, this way you can use it again and again!

And Ta Da!
Photo and example assistance by Christina Beard!

3 Day Weekend!

2010-05-14T00:07:00.013-05:00

I had the pleasure of enjoying a 3 day weekend (Thur-Sat)!!! It was packed full of fun and exciting things!!! Thursday: I had a freelance interview and ran into some MCAD friends, Tim and Ash (!). I met up with Brent for a bite at Lions Tap, before going to see COHEED & CAMBRIA!!! I think I orgasmed when they came to play an encore! My high school friends Marisa and her BF, Matt was there too, it was nice running into them. Friday: Early walk with Christina to get groceries that we needed for making cupcakes for Anna's 1st Solo Art Show (during Art-A-Whirl). We made Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes AND Champagne Cupcakes, I'll put both recipes on my baking blog, hbDesigns Cupcakes. Both were a huge hit, I got the Vegan thumbs up from Raighne, one of the owners of 2D Cloud Studio, where Anna's show was being held. After the show's reception, a handful of us grabbed some Japanese food at Kikugawa, near the river. And last, but not least, Christina and I finished off our Friday night by doing some dirty/cheap screen printing. I'll make a tutorial for this in my next blog posting. It was a lot of fun and very worth it for the price of materials. I'm happy to take requests for a reasonable price. Thanks to Christina for putting up with me for over 24 hours!!! And thanks to everyone else for the awesome weekend. Photos, photos, photos to share with you all the fun!!!

Coheed & Cambria Concert!

Anna Bongiovanni's 1st SOLO Art Show

Kikugawa with Mako, Chritina, Alison and Sean.

Dirty/Cheap Screen Printing with Christina!

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Heather, what about Saturday?" I used Saturday for sleeping in, relaxing and enjoying some time to myself. ^_^.

No Ice Cream May

2010-05-03T01:20:00.003-05:00

During the month of May, I will not be eating any ice cream. No reason at all, but there are benefits. I have not been able to start my Helen/Heather Project because the boxes of recipes are in storage, but at least in this way I can still work towards a healthier me.

Craftstravaganza

2010-05-01T23:29:00.006-05:00

Today was Craftstravaganza!!! Marisa and I had a fun time seeing all the jewelry makers, clothing designs and plushies! OMG, the plushies! Makes me want to start back up on my own collection soon.

The purses are handmade by Jenna Lou from Mankato, MN! I just love both of them. MOPEDS!

These cute little cupcake magnets are made by Giraffe. They also make LOST coasters!

The small mirror and buttons come from Book by J-Me.

And the 'stash is from Gentry Night Studios.

Ice Bat incognito.

AHS - Please Help the Animals

2010-04-25T23:29:00.006-05:00

Image above: Copyright Ash Temple

Information below from Ash Temple and her team of Animal Lovers! From The Stubby Nubbs Team!

We created a team (Heather's friend Ash + peeps) to help support the animals that Animal Humane Society cares for every day. Animals suffer the effects of tough times and this is exactly the time when our commitment must be at its strongest. We have committed as a team to do what we can to help all of the animals in need.

Will you help too? Please consider giving what you can - either through a donation or by joining our team and helping us raise money for this important cause.

The Walk for Animals is about gathering and celebrating, but mostly, it?s about helping animals less fortunate than our own. This is the Animal Humane Society?s major, stand-up-on-your-hind-legs-and-bark fundraising event. Nearly 35,000 companion animals depend on AHS - and on you!

Thank you for your generous support.

If you would like to join our team "Stubby Nubbs" (named in honor of the dogs with nubbin tails!) Ash will make you a t-shirt with an illustration of your dog (or anything you want) and our team name. In fact, if you make a donation and would like a tshirt, please let her know as well! Just email her: ohtoast@yahoo.com what you want and buy a white t-shirt of your liking, and she will make you a sweet shirt!

DONATE! Here!

New Surroundings

2010-04-14T01:08:00.003-05:00

A J shaped wall functions as a closet and hides my room.

There is a lot more on it now... but it's a fresh place to work again!

The TV and treadmill, which I hope to use, but I have some boxes to move.

The nook, a.k.a. the bedroom.

Moved, Stressed & Scared

2010-04-09T00:47:00.005-05:00

As many of you may or may not know, I recently moved back home with my mother. It's been stressful, scary and kind of annoying. I was happy renting in the burbs being near friends and much closer to the cities and the job possibilities I was aiming for. But here, in Owatonna, I feel like I'm going to get in a rut being so far away from all the things, places and people I love. Don't get me wrong, I love my mom and family, they are awesome, but I'm just use to living on my own with my own schedule and doing things my own way. I guess stubborn runs in the family.

I've been trying to get back into the advertising/ marketing/ design field for some time now and it's just not working out for me. I feel I was caught in this middle zone between the times of Advertising Silos and this New Age of Advertising. I've been trained in the old ways and not being immersed in the biz I feel that I am missing out on catching up with what is going on. I still fall within the 'entry level' category when job looking, but in this limbo of a world I'm not prepared for needed jobs like web designer or interactive specialist, but I don't have the years experience to get art director or creative lead, things that I know how to do.

It's stressful and I feel that my 4 year degree is being wasted away. You know, "Use it or lose it." I'm still a good illustrator/ artist, but I feel like I am falling out of touch with my advertising degree and it's only been 2 years since I graduated. Now, I'm wondering if it was all worth it. Yes! On one hand, I had a great 4 years, learned many things that I use every day, plus friends and experiences that I wouldn't trade for the world. But, at the same time no, the 100+ thousands of dollars and stress from all of the aftermath is getting to me. I feel though that I lack focus and passion, which inevitably makes this all no ones fault, but my own.

So I got good grades, graduated on time and then had a full time job (Salary + Benefits) just months after graduating. Pretty successful right? Sadly, the economy wasn't something that I factored in when I made my 5 year plan for "After MCAD." Now I feel like I have to reinvent the wheel again and possibly go back to school. For what? I'm not to sure yet. One idea is just branching off and learning more web things, another idea is baking and cooking (which I do love), but I still love advertising too. There is no 10, 5 or even 1 year plan right now... The plan is to "Just be," for now.

Just for Swag, I mean Fun

2010-03-20T22:32:00.006-05:00

"He Will Return"

"The Creation of Conan"

The new social media craze I'm With Coco has been flooding the web with images, comments and creations after the whole NBC/ Jay Leno/ Conan O'Brien fiasco earlier this year. Since then 2 online competitions have been held to win some swag and I of course had to play along. Conan as Baby Jesus ("He Will Return") received Honorable Mention and I will let you know what happen with "The Creation of Conan" after the contest ends Sunday night.

I'm #Lame, but these people ROCK!

2010-03-19T22:20:00.008-05:00

Image above: Copyright Anna Bongiovanni

I was poking around my new friend Anna's blog - Soft And Fleshy. And she is an amazing artist! Seriously, I feel lame for not drawing as much as I should be! I have a ton of great friends who are great designers and artists. I am inspired to start some new work! Every year the Owatonna Art Center hosts the Festival of the Arts and I figure if I can't get in this year then I can save up and put some work in the MCAD Art Sale this coming fall/winter. Some other awesome people can be found below:

Alison Stump
Casey Cubulski
Evan Palmer
Jared A May
Joel Vollmer
Ricci Gertz
Steve Robbins

3-2-1 PUNCH!

2010-03-14T04:55:00.003-05:00

The MCADers had such a great time together again! We celebrated an early St. Patrick's Day! Green foods, beer and green drinks! This lemon/lime punch was a BIG HIT! I recommend it for any time of the year.

St. Patrick's Day Party Punch (alcoholic)
2 (12 oz) cans frozen limeade concentrate
2 (12 oz) cans frozen lemonade concentrate
2 (2 liter) bottles lemon-lime flavored carbonated soda (7up or Sprite)
1 (750 milliliter) bottle rum (I used 1 L of Bacardi Superior)
2 quarts lime sherbet (I used 2 Pts)
ice

In a large pot, combine limeade, lemonade and lemon-lime soda. Stir in rum. Mix in the lime sherbet. (Cut's in 1/2 very easily.)

Enjoy!

Freelance Work

2010-03-08T22:32:00.002-06:00

One day I was cashiering at Mikes and I was making some small talk with a pastry cheff, The Cake Diva, Janan. She gave me her card so I could check out her work for my sisters future wedding and I noticed she needed a logo. I slipper her my card and the rest is history. Today, I got my first freelance paycheck! I was pretty excited.

Some other illustration while working on The Cake Diva's logo.

Catch 22

2010-03-01T23:32:00.003-06:00

"People familiar with Joseph Heller’s novel are irritated when they see “Catch-22” used to label any simple hitch or problem rather than this sort of circular predicament: you can’t get published until you have an agent, and you can’t get an agent until you’ve been published. “There’s a catch” will do fine for most other situations." Source Link

I've been trying to move my life always towards bigger and better things. I graduated from a private 4 year college, did the clique road trip, found a great paying (for just out of school) job with benefits and the whole nine yards. Economy went down the tube and I lost my job.

I get a part time job, keep busy through the holidays and when things slow down I get a second part time job to keep up the type of hours I needed to pay my bills (while still getting help from the government and my parents). I found a balance between the two jobs... yes, I have no social life, but I really didn't have one to begin with.

A higher level position at my first job became available, so I applied and interview... things went well. Today I learned that I was passed over for another coworker because of my availability. I asked in the interview if that would be a factor and I was informed that it may BUT not likely because of the other number of employees who have this same level position. I'm happy for my coworker who got the position... he's a nice guy, but I'm still sad for me.

So the Catch 22 of it all: I paid for this expensive degree to get a nice job, one that would help me get the things I want in life, nothing fancy, I don't want a mansion. But, when no one hires you or gives you a chance when you are right out of school (or opens up entry level jobs)... you can't pay your loans back. #FML

Things That Makes Me Happy!

2010-02-24T02:35:00.000-06:00

Foot In The Door 4

2010-02-19T01:44:00.004-06:00

Minneapolis Institute of Art holds a show once, every ten years, called Foot In The Door. It was created to show off Minnesota Artists, so anyone from MN is allowed to enter 1 piece within a 12 in square or cube. Myself and a few friends and MCAD Alum submitted a piece and it was like finding a needle in a haystack with the near 5,000 pieces.

We eventually found all of our pieces. I submitted my Cameo Twins digital illustration. It will be up till JUNE!

Steve and his collage of illustrations.

We found my freshman year roommate, Alli's photo as well!

And Jenny's piece was a little higher up but we eventually found it as well among the very crowded gallery rooms.

Valentines

2010-02-19T01:32:00.002-06:00

Cupcakes for all and all a good night!

My Finds!

2010-02-10T00:31:00.005-06:00

West Bend Penguin Hot/Cold Serving Bowl and now I have 2!!!

The cutest coin purse for $1.50!

A beautiful silk scarf! I love it!

Some 1977 Star Wars cards that I got for my buddy Casey! Hope he likes them!

A Poloroid One Step Land Camera, I need some film to take this bad boy for a test drive, whether it works or not, it's still awesome to look at.

I also got a couple bell Coca Cola glasses, but they are a gift for a friend so no photo. ^_^.

Antique Shopping!

2010-02-04T22:27:00.005-06:00

Just like the kind of My Little Ponies we had when we were little.

Fisher Price was the shiz.

More toys we had when we were kids.

We LOVE John Deere in the Buscho household.

This is when McDonalds toys kicked ass!

Do I even have to say anything? ^_^.

Fondue is Fun!

Glass Grapes are classy, right Kitty?

My mom has this exact set, minus the coffee cups.

Hulk Call !

Keeping our eyes open for good deals!

The Mall of St. Paul is a huge store in St. Paul, of course, loaded with everything you could think of. Vintage clothes, vinyl records, antiques, retro, collectibles, and much more! It was so much fun! I can't wait to go back.

Season 6 Premiere of LOST!

2010-02-04T22:11:00.004-06:00

Fed. 2nd was the Season Premiere of the last season of ABC's LOST! In honor of such events I decided to bake, like I always do, each cupcakes was topped with a cut out Dharma Initiative Icon seen from the previous 5 seasons. They were a smash at the little gathering we at at Steve's place!

The Heather/Helen Project

2010-01-27T16:31:00.005-06:00

As I was watching Oprah today and her interview with Michael Pollan, author of Food Rules: An Eater's Manual, I realized something. Not only was his view on food cost vs health care very inspiring, but it also hit me with a new move coming up I could use this opportunity for a change in my life.

After many years without my grandmother, Helen, being around for family occasions and my ongoing project to type up all of her recipes, it hit me! We have all heard of, seen or know the reference to the 2009 movie, Julie & Julia, all based on Julia Child's life and cook book. So in light of a new decade and soon a move back home with my mother, I want to start a personal project of "real foods," food my grandmother would recognize. Just like Julie, I will work my way through my grandmothers recipes in the attempt to eat better, smarter and hopefully healthier. The Heather/ Helen project will start soon and it may not be a daily habit, but change is always something to be optimistic about.

New Work = New Clothes

2010-01-20T21:41:00.004-06:00

Just before my vacation (which I will blog about soon), I started another part time job at Catherine's Plus Size, a sister store to Lane Bryant. So I got a couple things to show off the brand. I know it's tailored to an older audience, but there are a few cute things that I just had to get!

New Crafts

2009-12-28T18:56:00.006-06:00

Fused plastic sewn together.

Last week a customer and I were discussing plastic bags and she was telling me how I can cut the tops and bottoms off cheap shopping bags, iron them together, then sew them into new things like tote bags. I got so excited to try a new craft, especially one that included recycling, I just had to try it out!

I made a tote for Trista's Birthday.

Detail

Card Holder

Coin Purses

Daily Doodle #1 & 2

2009-11-25T23:35:00.006-06:00

I was poking around Wet Paint the other day, it's an art store in St. Paul, MN and not only did I run into my friend Steve, but I also scooped up a new little sketchbook, just begging to be drawn in. I don't do a lot of hand drawing anymore (sad), so I decided to change that by starting my New Years resolution a little early. I'm starting what has been named The Daily Doodle; every day I'm going to hand draw something and update you through my blog and if I miss a day, I better have a really good excuse or pull double duty the following day to make up for it. I hope you enjoy. I'm also happy to hear feedback and ideas for more doodles.

Steve, showing off some wicked highlighters from Wet Paint. 11/24

Cami, sleeping on the corner of my bed. 11/25

Kid at Heart

2009-11-25T23:02:00.003-06:00

This little cutie is from the American Girl Brand kits that we sell at Michael's. It is a little owl shaped pouch for either your Mp3 player, camera or cell phone. I just adore it and had a cheerful time making it... except when I thought I lost the green thread, but really just one of the kittens ran off with it temporarily. For the little girl in your family there is just tons of fun waiting to be had with AG crafts.

Some Fresh Meat

2009-11-15T00:39:00.010-06:00

So my sister has finally left the fast paced world of coffee making of Starbucks. Basically, too much drama. So now she is out in the real world and even though she is still in school, she had done enough hours to work as a Massage Therapist. I, of course, being the best person to work on her future business identity started working on a biz card/ appointment reminder card for her. I still want to try a few ideas out, but I wanted to give you all a taste for what I have been working on.

I also have the pleasure of sharing with all of you about this little number. A few months ago I started following this guy on twitter and then found myself following one of his followers who works in PR and writes her own blog. After befriending one another on Facebook, she invited me out for lunch to talk about a project she had for me. So here is the new look for Marcy's Minneapolis Career Girl blog logo. There is still some more work to do for her, but I'm excited for any and more freelance projects.

Even though this was made a while ago, my friend Mike has been making some dramatic changes to his site and now has incorporated the new logo that I made for him into it. I'm so happy to see my work up in the real (internet) world.

Last, but not least, I want to share the work of my reunited friendship with my buddy Steve Robbins. He is a great comic artist, wonderful character designer and all around great guy. I hope you check out his site and his blog.

Busy Bee

2009-11-08T10:50:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to extend an apology out to my readers. I know I haven't posted anything new on my blog for a long time and the truth is, I have been pretty busy the last few weeks. I've been working any where's from 20-35 hours a week at my new PT job with Michael's, I also have a number of projects or clients that I have been working with as well. The Advertising Federation of MN needs a holiday party post card made, a fellow twitter-er needed her logo date pushed up and my sister needs a biz card now. Plus there are little things like looking for work, babysitting, cleaning the apt, trying to stay social, etc. Oh! And, there are all the little things I've been doing to help Jenna out before her wedding on the 28th! Sometimes I think I like stretching myself too thin. Brent says, I'm trying to compete with him, I'm not really, or at least, not on purpose; I'm just trying to make enough money to pay my bills and keep everyone happy. I've been on unemployment for over 6 months and even though I have this PT job, it's not enough to cover everything. So I stay busy, busy as a little bee in the summer time, even though we're going into winter. Hopefully the job hunt will turn around for me, it's been really slow since I started at Mike's.

Household Tip #1

2009-10-16T22:42:00.005-05:00

Most of my friends know, but not everyone, that I am a very 'domesticated' woman. I love cooking and baking, decorating and hosting, I even like cleaning when I am in the mood for it. I want to start a list of household tips I have learned, used and feel would benefit everyone. A lot of my friends are at a point where they are moving out of their parents homes and starting their own lives and for all my friends who do already live in the real world maybe there is a tip that could help them out. So if you have any tips/ tricks or trades that you would like to share with me, let me know and I'll add them to the list.

Household Tip #1 - Removing Gnats

So you left something on the counter too long or have something really smelly sitting in your trash and now you have gnats. At first it only seems like a few, but even after removing the smell/ trash out of your house they still seems to be around. Here is a sure fire way to get rid of them.

Gather the following things:
An Empty Jar
Apple Vinegar
Paper or Card Stock
Tape
Scissors

Cut and tape a funnel out of the paper or card stock, leave a small enough hole so that the gnats can get in but not out.

Tape down the funnel so that the bugs cannot get out any other way.

Leave it out on the kitchen counter or someplace open.

It really works and I'm really impressed how quickly too.

(Tip donated to me by Tona, from Rachel, former LB coworkers)

Working Girl

2009-10-12T22:08:00.004-05:00

New Location

New Uniform

I better study up!

Finally Employed

2009-10-10T19:42:00.000-05:00

I finally have the pleasure of informing everyone that I am now employed! Granted this is a part time job, but I am optimistic that it is a step in the right direction. I have to believe my months of hard work and job hunting will get me somewhere I want towards my future career.

I will be brief about the new position because I don't have orientation till Monday. I do already have about 25 hours scheduled for my 1st week, so I am very excited.

Yes, it is a retail job and for those of you who known me for a while, know I use to work a the Lane Bryant in Burnsville for almost 4 years. Now, I will be working at the Michael's Arts & Crafts in Richfield, near the Hub Shopping Center. A less then 10 min drive with no highway needed. Awesome!

I enjoy the arts, crafts, baking, sewing and beading and with all my retail experience, I felt it would be a good fit. Plus with my sister's engagement, the discount will be helpful. I will never hang or fold clothing again, I tell you that!

So wish me luck, I start on Monday!

Adult Homework

2009-10-04T20:41:00.011-05:00

SPC Original Site

My Mock Redesign: SPC Home Page

My Mock Redesign: SPC Home Page, courser over button/ Ad 1

My Mock Redesign: SPC Home Page, courser over button/ Ad 2

After my design interview last Tuesday, I was given a 24 'homework' assignment to mock up a redesign of SPC's home page. They gave me a list of guidelines to meet and two other websites they own/worked on as references. Web design isn't me strongest forte, but it would be something I would love to gain more experience in. Whether I get the job or not, it's still good practice for me. Plus it kept me busy for a little while.

World Premiere of Nobody

2009-10-02T20:19:00.018-05:00

October 1st was the World Premiere of the film Nobody (IMDB) (Site), a story about Lindeman, a 25 year old art student, struggles to find his inspiration, finding himself in one ridiculous situation after the other.

Writers: Rob Perez and Ryan Miller
Director: Rob Perez
Executive Producer: Josh Hartnett
Lead Actor: Sam Rosen

The movie was filmed entirely in the city of Minneapolis and parts of the film were even filmed at the Minneapolis College of Art + Design, where I went to school! So when the opportunity came when the public could attend the premiere, I jumped all over it. I scooped up 4 presale tickets and eventually found 3 friends to join me for the premiere and a bite to eat before hand.

It was a funny flick, especially since it was from the point of view from the cliché poor art student. Basically my college life rapped up in about 100 minuets. Of course being from or living in Mpls and going to school at MCAD, we all caught some of the little inconsistencies: no snow in a park during “winter time,” the flow of the rooms at MCAD were all wrong (but forgivable), the dandy lions were not yellow in “spring time;” just a few little things that one may or may not notice. It did not take away from the comedic story line or the odd goat.

I highly recommend it. You have to appreciate something made in your back yard.

After the film, Tim and I headed over to the Shout House to help Ash celebrate her birthday. I had never seen Dueling Piano's before, it was great! Totally a place to go to again.

To see pictures from the premiere, go to my Events Flickr Set or click here.

The Job Hunt Update

2009-09-26T17:01:00.019-05:00

Maybe it’s time for a job hunting update for people who are not in the loop on a daily basis with me. I have my 6th interview coming up on Tuesday the 29th. That’s 5 months to the day after being let go from Gruen Marketing. I was pretty much in shock the whole month of May, getting kinda down in June and really starting to feel almost depressed by time July hit and I’m not gonna even talk about August. But now in September, I’m feeling a little better… still hunting for that job, but I’m feeling a little more confident after each interview. Here’s been the run down over the last few months:

1) Cumberland Enterprises
2) Life Touch Photography (Seasonal)
3) Elite Marketing Promotions
4) Metro Marketing
4) Michael's Craft Store (Part Time)
6) Security Products Company (But, it's a design job)

I have been babysitting too, for my Ex Lane Bryant manager... kind of counts as work, right?

I have also been trying to keep busy with a lot of projects, like to keep my mind occupied, because I don't get cable, have seen all my movies a million times and have a few number of friends still in the cities. Some projects include:

1) Getting my Portfolio Site up and running
2) I made Jewelry for two of my gal pal's weddings
3) Working on RYZ.com shoe competitions
4) Working on my own Birds of a Feather Jewelry Co. logo/identity and products
5) Getting BoaF up and running on Etsy
6) Helping my Sister in planning her wedding to Mike (I'm a MOH!)
7) Networking (Twitter, FB, LinkedIn) and going to events like the Temp Retired.
8) Making a logo for Meredith, a photography friend
9) Working on some simple designs for t-shirts (1) (2)
10) Adding more Digital Illustration to my website
11) Send some design work to a student in Berlin for a publishing project
12) Random logo designs, like a spec logo for Locks of Love
13) I'm currently working on a logo/blog design for a Twitter Follower of mine

Busy is good, it’s keeping my mind of other things I would be thinking about. The only thing to worry about is time vs money, but even people with jobs have that problem too.

So, if you’re looking for a designer for FT work or freelance I’m happy to provide my services… Advertising, illustration and photography too, of course! I like having multiple interests. I can bake too and cook too, but I doubt people want to pay me for that, but cooking for friends always makes me happy.

RYZ.com Contest 27

2009-09-26T15:32:00.008-05:00

Every 2 weeks or so RYZ.com holds design contests for artists and designers to see their work on shoes! It's fun! The winner get's their shoe made and usually some kind of prize like a gift card or money. There is usually a theme and as one contest is open to submission the previous one is open for voting... That's where I need your help. I would love to have friends, family, strangers voting on my shoes. Right now I have 2 shoes that are available to vote on and you can vote ONCE DAILY. So be sure to go back 1 time each 24 hours and vote again. (When the check marks are grey you can vote and they are blue for 24 hours.)

For Big City - Vote Here

For Tele Pole - Vote Here

Helping all artist

2009-09-24T12:20:00.002-05:00

This Post by MPR talks about an artist-friendly physician in Northeast Minneapolis, who has opened a practice that's getting praised for addressing a gap in the health care system by offering cheaper rates and making it much easier on the poor artist types... I mean, patients.

Here's the Link to Dr. Sam's site, too. If anyone does end up ever needing to go to Dr. Sam report back please!

Ps. I love his logo!!!

Nobody and What to Wear for Them?

2009-09-24T02:24:00.010-05:00

Update 9.26.09 - All my tickets are taken now. I somehow managed to get 3 guys to going with me. How did I pull that off? I don't know either, but it will be fun! Tim, Jared and Joel are all awesome guys!

It feels like nobody wants to go to the World Premiere of Nobody with me and my friend, the Awesome that is Joel. I already have the 4 tickets, but my original plans fell through just after buying them and I want to fill the other 2 seats.

Yes, it would be nice to have those seats reimbursed by who ever is sitting there, but I rather eat the $25 (each) and have someone join us then the 2 empty seats. So if you want to go, I need to now a.s.a.p. The show is Thursday, October 1st at 7:30pm. First come, first serve kind of deal. Plus since I'm getting all dressed up, maybe grab a drink or bite before the show!

But more to my point of this post... what the heck does one wear to a movie premiere with what I have in my closet? I pulled out some good ones, but I always love feed back. So any thoughts/ suggestions/ opinions would be nice. Keeping in mind, I have no money to buy a new outfit for this. ^_^.

Option A (Liking this black one best)

Option B

Option C (Seems 'mom-ish')

Option D (More of a summer dress, I guess)

Option E (Front and back of a top, very low cut and would be worn with black pants)

AT&T Predicted the Future in 1993

2009-09-23T13:29:00.003-05:00

"This montage of AT&T ads came from a 1993 Newsweek CD-ROM, when Newsweek thought that one day, magazines would be sent to you in CD-ROM form, sponsored with ads. It's an interesting view of the future."

Very interesting, right? But, to all of iPhone and Blackberry owners you are the 'future' ^_^. If only they didn't drop calls.

Now on Etsy

2009-09-17T17:30:00.004-05:00

I'm starting my trial run on Etsy.com selling a few hand made pieces, things like necklaces, earrings and headbands. We'll see if anything sells and if so I will continue to keep it going. Please visit Birds of a Feather by hbDesigns on Etsy.com and let me know what you think or maybe make purchase if you feel so inclinded. I have made custom pieces for friends for their weddings, I am happy to do the same if you email me, we can talk it over. (Images above are custom pieces, not for sale, but I can recreate something very similar if you like.)

Random Emails

2009-09-17T00:13:00.009-05:00

Okay, so I have to take into account that my portfolio/web site and blog are very public, but I am a very skeptic person. I'm actually very introverted and a bit of a worry wort, I know I kinda hide this. I know not to trust everything I get in my inbox, but this one throws me off and I'm not sure what to think of it. So I'm copying it here, hoping to get some feed back from my twitter and blog followers... Any thoughts on this, I'm just unsure. All else fails I'll just ignore it or write back with questions, but I want to hear what other people think. I'm not sure if I should be flattered that someone likes my work or they're pulling my leg.

Email as follows:
Hi,
My name is Erich I´m a graphic design student in berlin at the (I removed the link) I´m working on an editorial project for my semester exam, it has to involve editorial design and exhibition. I would like to publish some of your work, In the attached file is the info for the project and a form to fill if you´re interested, if there are any questions, please ask. Im afraid my deadline, before I start working on the layout is in 5 days...
best wishes
Erich Eichstetter
www.flickr.com/eriche (I removed link)
or in facebook as erich eichstetter
or (I removed email addy)

There is 4 page document/form attached, that lists off a whole bunch of steps.
How to fill this formular?
The only obligatory fields are your name country and information, feel free to fill the other fields as you wish, ignore the questions you don´t feel necessary, the questions wont appear in the magazine, only the answers.
Requirements for being published in Print2.0

1. A profile pic which can be a logo, a portrait or any representative image of the participant.
2. A picture of the studio, the camera or any significative working tool of the participant.
3. A picture of the participants city.
4. A minimum of 5 and maximum of 12 pictures of the participants work in DinA5 format (148x105mm) plus one picture in a large format for the poster (630x470mm), 150 dpi CMYK in tiff, pdf or eps format, I prefer no jpgs but they are also accepted. No watermarks, logos, artists names or frames will be accepted.
5.The filled form
6. A zip or rar file containing the requirements with the participants name. example: ericheichstetter. zip
7. By sending this zip file you´re allowing me to use its content for the pilot issue of the free of charge magazine Print 2.0
Thoughts or comments?

New Work

2009-09-15T12:43:00.011-05:00

Tele Pole Series:
The shirt is viewable on RYZ

Big City Series
The shoes are viewable on RYZ

Credit Note: Portraits are from Threadless.com and the 3D shoe renderings come from RYZ.com. Designs are by hbDesigns (aka me).

Best Week To End My Summer!

2009-09-04T17:42:00.009-05:00

Monday, I spent most of the day at the MN State Fair with my friend Marisa!
I did get a sun burn.

Tuesday, my mom and I went to the Spa, so relaxing!

Wednesday, was the Temp. Retired Party! I got to see some MCAD friends again and meet some new people. It was totally awesome and I even made my own homeless/hobo sign (part of the theme).

Thursday, I got to spend the evening with my best buddy Brian! We had some dinner, hung out and caught up on what was new. Always a blast!

Friday, I had a job interview!!! It was with Elite Marketing Promotions. You would hire me, right? Red, is such a good power color for me (minus the red sun burnt forehead).

2009 SCFF & Demo Derby

2009-08-27T13:03:00.007-05:00

Rain or Shine. We will enjoy fair food! Buffalo Burgers!

Best Shishkabob's Ever!

Cheese curds, you have to finish!

Mighty Mini(van) Stock Heat - Lucky #13 Go Mike!

Crunched from both ends.

Hit 'em with the back end.

Def. need ear protection.

The car died at 3rd.

Dad and Deb (stepmom) were watching with me and Theresa.

The Winner and the AeroStar van!

SCFF (Steele County Free Fair) Always the 3rd week in Aug, in Owatonna, MN.

Farmers Market Adventure

2009-08-15T10:05:00.007-05:00

Today I ventured to the Richfield Farmers Market off of 64th St. and Portland Ave. I had never been to any of the farmers markets up here in the cities before and since I was up at the crack of dawn to wake my sister up I thought I would go! I'm sure the one in Mpls is bigger, but there was plenty of people, food and flowers, if I didn't already have breakfast, I would have gotten a crepe (Yummy!). I poked around first and started making a few perchases, my favorite is the fresh flowers. Who needs a man, when you can buy your own? I'm teasing, I loved when Brent bought me flowers. So fresh air, sunshine, and all my purchases and I had only spent 22 dollars! I was impressed!

Here's the break down for you:
- Flowers $6
- Sm. Summer Sausage $5
- 6 Bakery Fresh Rolls $4
- Green Beans $3
- Carrots $3
- Huge amount of Fresh Sweet Basil $1

Wow, I am so going again! Later in the month or in Sept. I hope to see Apples!!! Honey Crisp is the best!

List: Reasons To Live With Someone

2009-08-10T16:28:00.004-05:00

Living alone is great, but don’t get me wrong, someday I want to be married, maybe have a kid (no more then 2) and have enough yard for everyone, plus a dog to run around on. When you live alone you can do what you want, when you want without bothering others. Staying up till wee hours of the morning, making a mess in the kitchen, which you are the only one to pick up after, not sharing food or liquor, etc. It’s all grand, till you realize one day it starts feeling lonely. There’s a long list of reasons to enjoy living alone and I’ve done it now for about four years now. (Yes, I had roommates in college, but we never talked or hung out, so it was more like cohabitation.) But, the list of reasons to live with someone looks more appealing every day. Maybe, it’s just being out of work or the recent break up that leads up to all this, but never the less, I love lists.

01. Having someone to cuddle with.
02. Having someone to help me carry in the groceries.
03. Having someone to kill all the spiders and bugs.
04. Having someone else to cook for beside myself.
05. Having someone to vent to without using cell phone minuets.
06. Having someone there to take care of the pets when I am away.
07. Having someone else’s opinion when I’m trying to pick out clothes.
08. Having someone to take me out when I’m feeling cooped up.
09. Having someone to take care of me when I am feeling sick.
10. Having someone around, just to be around.
11. Having someone else to share all my hopes and dreams with.
12. Having someone to care about, daily.
13. Having someone to care about me.
14. Having someone notice when I get my hair done or wear a new perfume.
15. Having someone who I can wear my scrubby clothes around and wont care.
16. Having someone to pick me up when I fall.
17. Having someone to scratch or rub my back.
18. Having someone else to worry about.
19. Having someone to make me smile when I am sad.
20. Having someone to laugh at my corny jokes.
21. Having someone to run their fingers through my hair during romantic movies.
22. Having someone to help worry about the bills.
23. Having someone who makes me feel hot.
24. Having someone who loves sexy text messages as much as I do.
25. Having someone to share my eclectic tastes of movies and music with.
26. Having someone to take pictures with me.
27. Having someone who will enjoy travel as much as I do.
28. Having someone who thinks it’s cute when I get a little tipsy.
29. Having someone who doesn’t find me ever boring.
30. Having someone who shares my ideas of romance.
31. Having someone who takes the reins when I need them to.
32. Having someone who always takes my side.
33. Having someone I can depend on, everyday.
34. Having someone who gives me a natural high.
35. Having someone who understands my train of thoughts or how I think.
36. Having someone to gaze into my eyes forever.
37. Having someone to say I’m beautiful.
38. Having someone I can take care of when they need me the most.
39. Having someone to keep me on my toes.
40. Having someone who spoils me and lets me to spoil them.

Finally Out & About

2009-08-08T23:22:00.006-05:00

(I had 2 pics from us bowling, but due to web stupidity, I deleted them and have no way of getting them back. Use your imagination. ^_^.)

It's been a hot and sticky Saturday. Spent most of it sleeping since lately I've been living like I work a 3rd shift (up all night, sleep during the morning/early afternoon). My sister and her fiance' called me up, they wanted to come up to the cities and do something fun. We went to the new Sonic on American Blvd in Bloomington and then hit up the AMF Blowing in the Southtown Center. Fun! I did rip a nail though. Ouch.

MxPx Puts It Best

2009-08-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

Life Will Go On

2009-08-05T01:59:00.002-05:00

Life has been tough over the last few months, but the last few days have been even tougher. It was a normal Tuesday; I slept in, had a little lunch, and popped on my Adium to see if my boyfriend was a round to chit-chat. By the end of it, I found myself in a mutual break up with said boyfriend. But, I WILL NOT be the evil ex-girlfriend who runs his name in the dirt. He is a wonderful person and always will be, but in the end it wasn’t meant to be. I actually have a list of the top 101 Reasons to love him, but no one want to read all that, the first 10 are good ones though.

01. The way you silently smile at me.
02. The smell on the neck of your shirt, that lingers for hours.
03. The color of your eyes.
04. The way you run your fingers through my hair.
05. Because you think I’m cute.
06. How nerdy you can be.
07. You make me feel so special.
08. The way you can just stare into my eyes quietly.
09. Your sense of humor, it always makes me laugh.
10. The way you like to spoil me.

I may be a little hurt now, but there are more good times to remember, then bad ones. And as my friend ‘Pokey’ pointed out to me, the only place I can go from here is up. I can only hope he is right. I will always cherish the times I had with my first love. I know he feels the same.

Always Ask Questions

2009-08-04T17:51:00.000-05:00

Probably since the age of three or four, like most children, I started asking ‘why.’ Most parents try to explain or get frustrated from the repetition and say ‘because’ just to get it over with. It is by asking questions we learn the answers in life, but we have to be prepared for what ever those answers may be. To be curious is a very human trait and I wouldn’t go one day without it, but there are days where I fear what the answers may be and days where I hate what the answers were.

I am also a planner. I like trying to have a goal and a way to reach it. Even a loose to semi-idealized notion can be a form of a ‘plan.’ After three months with no job, I thought (and my mother suggested) I would go back to school. I thought, ‘Great, I can defer my loans learn something to help me get a better job and I can probably stay in the cities!’ Sadly, I learned after calling my bank/loan supplier on Monday, loans cannot go back into school status or deferment after being consolidated. This hit me kind of hard, that was one of the huge reasons why I thought it would be a good idea to go back to school. I also learned that if you were on unemployment, you would loose your benefits if you go back to school (full time, I believe).

Well, all of that felt like a blow in the stomach so yes asking questions will give you the answers you need, but I was not prepared for those answers. Unless the next month turns around for me, I undoubtedly think I will be stuck moving back home with my mother after my lease runs out.

So I Lost My Job...

2009-08-04T01:50:00.004-05:00

At the end of April of 2009, I lost job. It's heart breaking, scary and stressful. You do feel like you're the only one it is happening to, no matter how many people tell you, you're not. I had no clue what I was going to do, but from my mom, resources and personal experience I created a list of steps to help others in the future who come across a similar situation.

1. Cry and call your loved ones (Maybe men might skip the crying part).
2. File for Unemployment (the next day). (UIMN, if you live in Minnesota)
After all the paper work and setting up stuff online is done, be sure to copy your ‘approved’ papers for loan deferments. There is a one-week waiting period and if you have any kind of severance package they take that into account. I went the first 3 weeks of May with NO money, thank goodness for parents.
3. Graduates call your loaners and look into deferments and/ or forbearances.
Well Fargo – Private Loan
Direct Loans – Federal Loan
4. Call HR from ‘said’ employer and inquiry about COBRA for your health benefits.
What to ask:
- Can I COBRA my health, dental and/ or other kind of insurance?
- Would it be the same level of benefits I have now?
- What is the price per month for this policy?
- How many months can I carry it?
- Does this reflect the new stimulus package, which usually lowers the costs?

You don’t have to agree on the spot, you can call back with your decision. I learned the hard way, I just COBRA my insurance, because I was denied when trying to get back to my parent's or previous insurance, do to a ‘previous condition.” Yes, all insurance companies are jerks, in my opinion.

5. Update/ Delete/ Edit any online media listing ‘said’ lost job.
Email Signatures
LinkedIn
Facebook/ MySpace
Twitter
Etc.
6. Find/ Edit/ Re-Vamp/ or Create a New Resume’
7. Prepare a list of references.
8. Fill out/ post your resume’ on job search websites:
Monster
Career Builder
MN Works
MN WFC
Hoovers
Indeed
9. Prepare a general cover letter as a starting point and remember to customize it for each job application.
10. Start your list of Job Offers and Contacts to keep track of whom and when you make contact and apply for job offers.
11. Network/ Contact/ Reach Out to who ever is listening, you never know who could help or offer and idea/ suggestion/ or even a job.
12. Have a part time job, anything, so while you are looking, it benefits your character as a hard, dedicated worker.
13. Apply, Apply, Apply!!!
14. Keep track of all applications to document for Unemployment, things like:
- Completed Applications
- Sending Employment Resumes
- Attend Job Seeking Seminars
- Do Networking. Research, Etc.
15. Remember ‘Thank You Letters/ Emails’ and/or ‘Call Backs.’
16. Freelance work, competitions, or even just new work for you book if you're a fellow artist, keeping busy helps.
17. I considered going back to school, but I learned that loans cannot be deferred again once they have been consolidated.

*This is all my opinion after losing my job, I am not guaranteeing that this is a sure fire way to get a new job, just how I went about doing it. I am not responsible for your path in life, you are. I'm just trying to help.

Welcome!

2009-08-03T23:36:00.002-05:00

Welcome to those, friends and strangers alike! I’m glad you have stumbled upon my little blog, here is where I have started a place for my thoughts, rants, finds and creations. Yes, I do have other forms of connections all throughout the interweb, but I feel this will provide a new challenge for me, since I am not really a writer.

For those who do not know me personally, my name is Heather and I’m your average 23 year old, born and raised in Southern Minnesota. I’m the short one who makes you laugh, with my sarcastic humor, I’m good-natured, always willing to help and wanting to learn something new. I love music and movies too. I’m a daughter, sister, lover and friend. You’ll learn more as we move along.

I moved to the Twin Cities in 2004 when I started going to school at the Minneapolis College of Art & Design for my BFA in Advertising Design, lucky for me, four years and a huge debt later I graduated and started looking for work. After ten months of working for a Yellow Pages CMR, I lost my job due to the state of the economy and recently I have been looking for work again.

Thanks again for stopping by, please feel free to roam around my other forms of connections on the interweb. I welcome your comments and questions!

Portfolio Site
LinkedIn
Twitter
Facebook
Flickr
Tumblr
Extendr