creative swaps

paper & fabric beads

2012-01-31T09:40:00.000-05:00

There is plenty of room in this art swap I'm hosting if you would like to join us! Please visit this post: New Swap - Paper & Fabric Beads for all the swap details. A slideshow of some of the beads I've made for the swap is below. You can view this full screen by clicking on the arrows in the lower right corner after you hit 'play'.

These are fun to make, I will definitely be trying some more.
Swap beads are due march 24!

* Tyvek beads for the swap *

2012-01-27T15:17:00.003-05:00

I left the last bunch of beads I had made for the current swap out on my work table. Boy, did I smile when I walked past them today and saw my finds from yesterday's walk combined with these beads in a very pleasing composition! I had literally dropped the shells & feather there yesterday without really looking.

Isn't that pretty? Click on the photo for more details and shimmer. Tyvek beads are so interesting! It also got me to thinking . . . while my experiments with Tyvek paper are in the lesson that comes with swap registration, I had not shown any of these beads on the swaps blog . . .

I already have had a dozen or so people sign up for the swap, so I am very excited! Someone asked, and yes! You will receive a variety of beads from different artists in your swap returns. To read all about the Paper and Fabric bead swap, scroll down or follow this link!

happy creative day to you,

lenna

New Swap - Paper & Fabric Beads!

2012-01-25T23:36:00.000-05:00

Announcing Creative Swaps Paper and Fabric Bead Swap!

Create 15-20 paper and/or fabric beads - in exchange for the same amount of beads in return. It is up to you how many beads you create but at least 15 and no more than 20.
All swap packages must be delivered to me no later than March 24, 2011: Late entries will be returned.
What Size? Any size beads. They are generally ½” - 2” long and various widths.
What Materials? Make your beads out of fabric or paper of any type. You could use Tyvek paper, wrapping paper, leftover scraps of paper, patterned or printed paper, plain paper. Add color with markers or paint. Use newspaper or magazines. I even tried a long curl of a wood shaving from my husband’s workshop! Try cutting fabric, ripping fabric and adding threads or fibers. More ideas and lots of instructions are included in the accompanying lesson.
The $12 fee to register for this swap includes a 14 page lesson on making paper & fabric beads plus the return postage for your swap beads to anywhere in the world.

How to register: Go to the Registration page on creative swaps: http://creativeswaps.blogspot.com/p/registration.html -This is where you will see the swap registration. Click on the Add to Cart button, which will take you to a PayPal page. You do not need a PayPal account to use this online banking service that accepts all major credit and debit cards, eChecks and bank transfers. If you are unfamilar with payPal, find out more it here.

The swap registration is handled by e-junkie so you will receive your materials as soon as your payment has cleared, at any time of the day, or in any time-zone, whether I'm at my computer or not! You will receive an email from e-junkie titled "Bead Swap + Lesson Purchase" sent to your PayPal associated email address. This email will include a link for you to download 2 pdf files: RULES+MAILING-beadSwap.03.24.12 and Making your own beads out of fabric and paper. Just download the 2 files with the link you are sent and save them somewhere on your computer where you will remember! Or print them out.

There will be a second part to this swap! After all the beads have been swapped and sent, I will encourage all of the participants to create something from the swap beads they received. You may use extra beads of your own, but I'll request that at least some of the beads used in the piece you make were ones received in the swap. I'll set up a "Linky" tool and participants can visit creative swaps and leave a link that will take us to see your bead swap creation! This means you will take a photo or scan, upload it to your blog, website or photo site ~ somewhere where you can link to that photo and share it on the swaps blog so we can view it.

So looking forward to this!

Bead Swap re-cap:
15-20 paper/fabric beads delivered to me by March 24, 2012
$12 to register for the swap includes a lesson and return postage
Registration via PayPal/Credit Card only - on the registration page
I reserve the right to close registration for this swap at anytime . . . lets say at 40 to 50 participants, or whenever I deem it full. Thanks!

Some of my beads for the lesson below : ^ ) lenna

almost ready . . .

2012-01-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

I'm almost ready to announce the paper bead swap -hip hip hooray! Below is a glimpse at some of what I have been working on.

I am almost done with my lesson which will go over different ways to create various kinds of paper and fabric beads, photograph examples of them, step-by-step instructions, plus links to more information and videos to inspire you in making beads. It should be a lot of fun and you will have plenty of time; due at the end of march. After all the beads are swapped out I will host part 2, where you can share what you create with your swap beads! All details and sign-ups to follow soon. I have been slowly working on this project and thank you for your patience. Next time you hear from me here I will be announcing that registration is open. : ) yours creatively, lenna

new swap coming ...

2012-01-04T15:59:00.001-05:00

You'll have to be patient a wee bit longer while the details are ironed out and I practice, write out rules and prepare things, but I do have an idea for a creative swap that I think would be great. I would love our next swap to be a swap of paper OR fabric beads you create yourself! You could even make fabric-paper beads or a little of both. Mix them up any way you like! I have found quite a bit of information online that I will share with you when you register. The swap is not ready yet-but soon!

I will also make my own beads -some paper, some fabric and share both my results and how I made them with you in a lesson that will be part of your registration. I found the photo below on paperbeadgems flickr account but was directed there from paperbeads.org. I figured you may want to check into making fabric beads or paper beads online prior to the formal announcement of the swap to get some ideas.

Big Round Paper Beads, originally uploaded by paperbeadgems.

I would like to thank magicmoon musings for first suggesting fabric beads when I asked for ideas last month and also my friend Frieda Oxenham for sending me a bracelet with beautiful paper beads on it! That really had me inspired! My plan would be to make this a 2 part swap. First the making of the beads and second, making something from the beads you receive in the swap and sharing it here via links. For the making, the addition of more of your own beads if you wish, would be wonderful!

Suggestions and comments are welcome. I will be back when I am ready to present the swap! yours creatively, lenna

update!

2011-12-12T17:22:00.000-05:00

I did some housecleaning today and updated the creative swaps blog. The information pages are now easily view-able as side tabs, top right on the blog. I think it looks good, but I hope you'll take a look and let me know what you think. I am pondering about what would be fun for us to do as a creative swap in the new year . . . . and you know I am always open to suggestions. Leave me a comment or email me, thanks!! lenna

Haiku ATC swap sent and a break

2011-10-11T16:26:00.001-04:00

I swapped the haiku ATCs over the long weekend and mailed them all out today, 10/11. You should have them in your hands very soon. Thanks to all of my participants in the swap. I enjoyed all of your ATCs and most especially your haiku. What a lovely swap! Scroll down to view the next few posts and see what came in, if you have not visited in a while. A big thank you to my husband too . . . I forgot to say earlier, it was Steven who came up with 'haiku' when I was brainstorming themes for this swap. : )

For the first time in a long while, probably since I moved to Florida in 2009, I am taking a break from hosting swaps. I will be returning, but I'm not sure when. My best guess would be at the end of this year to announce something for 2012. If you'd like to be notified of any new creative swaps, sign up for the swap participants email by clicking here. You'll only receive occasional emails from me about new creative swaps soon after they're announced on the blog. This mailing is run by feedblitz and it is called "The Swap Participants News Flash". You'll receive two announcement emails at the start of a new swap and no blog posts ever. I hope you stay in touch! It is my pleasure to work with you and orchestrate these exchanges. Please let me know when you have received your swaps. Leave a comment here or email me. Thanks, lenna

Janet Fystrom: Haiku ATC swap

2011-10-06T22:44:00.001-04:00

From Janet in MN . . . . . she kindly sent 4, so I have chosen one as a gift.

Thank you so much, Janet.

Rena Matus: haiku ATC swap

2011-10-06T22:36:00.000-04:00

Sent from my old home state of CT, Rena Matus has sent us 3 ATCs for the swap, plus she gifted an extra one for me, thank you.

Rena's ATCs are hand painted on fabric and were inspired by her first close up encounter with a hummingbird. I had the same experience myself about 10 years ago in CT. It is really quite something to see one up close.

Thanks so much, Rena.

Sabrina Hoeke: haiku ATC swap

2011-10-06T22:26:00.001-04:00

From Sabrina in California, we have 3 autumn wind haiku ATCs.....

You'll find Sabrina's blog here.

Thank you, Sabrina.

Tiffiny Jackson: Haiku ATC swap

2011-10-06T22:14:00.000-04:00

From California, Tiffiny has sent us 3 hand drawn/collage ATCs with 'urban' haiku.

Thanks so much - Tiffiny's blog is here!

Jo-Ann Reichert: Haiku ATCs

2011-10-06T11:34:00.003-04:00

From Pennsylvania, Jo-Ann sends 3 hand painted ATCs that she added beeswax to.

her haiku reads:

Moon sheds light on us

Shimmering beauty ocean

Summer's days to end

she also so sweetly, made a card for me on the same idea . . .

Thank you Jo-Ann.

Visit her PictureTrail here.

All ATCs are due Saturday, October 8th.

I am expecting a few more.

a personal note

2011-10-02T21:12:00.003-04:00

My dad passed away yesterday after a long illness and I have posted his obituary on my personal blog. I wanted you to know, just in case you had not heard. It is sad and it is life changing but it is also a relief after his long illness. Thank you in advance for your care and understanding if I am delayed in any aspect. Lenna

Barbara Johnson: Haiku ATC swap

2011-10-01T09:59:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I received these really lovely ATCs from Barbara Johnson in Illinois. More than I expected, I have been enjoying receiving and especially reading everyone's haiku.

All haiku ATCs are due in my hands one week from today, October 8th. I will swap them out as soon as I am able and then I will be taking a small break from hosting swaps. My father was transported to the Hospice House last night and was settled in comfortably. He was having end-of-life symptoms that were difficult to manage at home and I know in my heart that now he is in the best place for everyone involved. He has been battling cancer for over 3 years. We, my entire family, have each other and we are holding up. I need to keep doing what I can as far as my art and the swap for my own well-being, but wanted you to understand if I am not here. Thank you. lenna

Siri Opdal: haiku ATC swap

2011-09-27T23:06:00.002-04:00

From Siri in Norway -wow! Three lovely fabric ATCs for our swap, plus some handmade flowers for me. Thank you so much, Siri! View all of Siri's swap pieces here -this is her 7th creative swap. ; ^ )

click for details.

Siri's haiku is on the back . . .

Love the postage stamp, flower & colorful strip of paper!

Thank you, Siri.

Ellen Lai: haiku ATC swap

2011-09-27T22:53:00.000-04:00

All the way from Singapore, yesterday I received Ellen Lai's beautiful ATCs for our haiku themed swap.

Ellen enclosed a tatted butterfly she made for me, shown above -thank you!

Ellen embroidered the fabric (this is fabric on top of paper),

tatted the tiny butterflies and dyed the fabric too.

The postage stamps from Singapore are a real treat - I'll be sure to use them.

Turtles and Tamarind!

Ellen wrote about her haiku ATCs and shared more photos, here on her blog.

I am so glad you could join us, Ellen.

leigh sanders: haiku ATC swap

2011-09-24T14:48:00.003-04:00

From Spain, Leigh Sanders has sent in 4 very wonderful watercolor haiku ATCs for our swap. This is Leigh's second creative swap (view both entries here). I so love her style and the colors she freely uses. I feel very fortunate that she sent an extra ATC as a gift.

click for details

You can find out more about Leigh and her art on her own blog, Ruby Barr. When I first visited her blog, I learned she was using Spoonflower. This is a site where you can upload your own designs and create your own fabric! I went to her profile and promptly bought a fat quarter of her Spring 2011 flower design -the link to this is on her blog. It is fantastic! I looked around the Spoonflower site and decided it was easy enough to upload a couple of my recent art journal pages as my own designs for fabric. I have purchased Fat Quarters (21" x 18") of my designs and I am also very pleased with how they came out. You can view my fabric designs here. The ideas are mind-boggling. Thank you, Leigh! I so appreciate your art and your participation all the way from Spain. ; ^ ) lenna

Joanna Urbani: haiku ATC swap

2011-09-23T09:52:00.001-04:00

Joanna's beautiful haiku ATCs arrived from Kent, UK and I feel so lucky to be able to hold them in my hands. The only way I could give you an indication of how beautifully iridescent they are was to photograph them. Please right-click for the largest view.

Then I scanned them for details.

Joanna's husband helped her with a few of the words . . .

like surveying ; ^)

Please read more on Joanna's blog!

I think I may be making another set of these if I can. Have fun!

Due October 8th -still time to join.

postcard mail art swap MAILED!

2011-09-23T09:37:00.003-04:00

Ken is my mailman, of course!

100 postcards!

Hope you receive them soon ; ^ )

Thanks again for a really great swap and please thank your postcard maker when you receive. If you cannot figure out their name or email from one of my reminder emails, feel free to contact me. I will get back to you as soon as I can.

postcard mail art swap - ready to mail

2011-09-22T22:56:00.000-04:00

I have all the postcards swapped and addressed -complete with postage stamps. I did put some of them in clear plastic bags if I thought they needed the protection. I would have usually gotten all of this swapping done a bit sooner, but my dad has not been well. Understandably with my dad not doing well (cancer) my attention lately has been on my family and not the swap. I was able to take care of the swap, just slower than usual. In fact, it was good to have this task to do. It kept my mind occupied on other things when I was worried. Steven and I are not traveling to my son's wedding next weekend . . . we feel we need to be here for my mom & dad instead and Dallas and his fiance do understand.

The postcards are in a box ready to go, so I will mail them tomorrow, I just wanted you to know. If I am slow on uploading the Haiku ATCs, this is why. Joanna Urbani's arrived today and they are gorgeous. Have a peek on her blog: http://fiddlesnips.blogspot.com.
Thanks.

haiku 9.20.11

2011-09-20T19:19:00.001-04:00

walk with the minnows
darting and flashing ahead
the dogs don't see them.

swoosh goes the water
swoosh, whoosh, swoosh against our legs
the sun shines warmly.

lenna young andrews 09.20.2011

laurie morris: haiku atc swap

2011-09-20T11:47:00.001-04:00

Laurie Morris, who lives not too far from me in Florida, registered for 2 sets of haiku ATCs. She wrote me an email earlier this month saying, "You have created amonster! More politely, haha, let me say that I have been writing haikunonstop!!" : ^ ) The haiku she chose for her ATCs were written by others, but Laurie thinks she'll use the haiku she wrote for The Stetchbook Project. Awesome! Just this morning while walking in the water with my dogs at DeSoto Park, I was composing haiku in my head. Writing haiku is kind of addictive! Here are Laurie's ATCs:

Click on any picture for details, use the "x" in the right corner to return.

The glass leaf bead in the center, above left and also on the 1st ATC are beads Laurie bought in Paris in 2005.

Thanks very much, Laurie - for all this beauty and haiku!

frieda oxenham: haiku atc swap

2011-09-20T09:44:00.000-04:00

I have received 4 ATCs for our haiku swap from my dear friend in Scotland, Frieda Oxenham; she wanted me to choose one for myself. I am lucky to have many of Frieda's ATCs as we are in a monthly exchange together and have known each other for a long time. I am especially drawn to Frieda's mixed media work and these ATCs for our swap are no exception. Below is the one I chose for myself -the one on the right, plus the other 3 for the swap. Read and see more here on Frieda's blog.

click for details - use the "x" in the right corner to return.

Frieda, I adore your ATCs and the haiku you wrote. I am also glad to see you using them to further your studies! Frieda is documenting all of the gravestones in the West Linton, Peeblesshire graveyard. Please see her blog devoted to this.

This is approximately Frieda's 16th creative swap! The number of posts next to Frieda's name at the bottom of this blog is 22 now I think, but that is because I often previewed her work with a post, and added a tag of her name and a link to her blog. She is often early in sending in her swaps and they make lovely examples! Thank you, Frieda, for everything.

BJ Meier: postcard mail art -last set to arrive!

2011-09-17T15:19:00.000-04:00

Today, I received the last set of postcards to make here on time for our mail art postcard swap. The deadline for me to receive was September 17 and this swap is now closed. Barbara Joan (BJ) Meier's postcards landed in my mailbox today all the way from Vancouver, British Columbia! She sent 5 postcards, so there are actually 2 extra (this was a 3 for 3 swap). I think one of the postcards was meant for me, as she enclosed 4 mailing labels for her returns. Sometimes when doing the swapping it doesn't work out evenly, so BJ's extra postcard could definitely come in handy. Thank you!

Thank you, BJ! So glad you could join us. I love your "take" on a summer's day.

I will start swapping the postcards out on my paper swap chart, and when I get the details all ironed out, I will affix your mailing labels, add the proper postage and send them home to you! I will be back with an update to let you know when all the postcards have been mailed . . . . and I'll be back on Monday with a few new wonderful Haiku ATCs I have received. I look forward to sharing them with you.

Sandra Skies Ludwig: postcard mail art swap!

2011-09-16T18:29:00.001-04:00

Sandra, a long-time art acquaintance of mine from Pennsylvania, has sent in three summer postcards that I am in love with. They have such a nice feeling to them! I adore the vintage images she has used.

What pretty postage stamps Sandra added, thank you!!

Yes, I agree, a summer's day is precious. It is different for me living in Florida now, I get summer days pretty much 9 months out of the year - still precious days, though!

Love these, Sandra. So glad you participated!

Please visit Sandra's blog here: Sandra's Vintage heart.

Only 2 packages arrived today. Tomorrow is the last day for me to receive and then I will close the swap, swap the postcards and send them out individually to all of the participants. It's been a great swap and the participants should be proud!

--> There is one more swap scheduled, Haiku ATCs due October 8. After that I will take a small break from hosting creative swaps. My dad is not doing well with his cancer and it would be good to step back. I will definitely be able to finish this swap and the next one, but feel after that, it is time for me to take a break. I do plan to be back, and I would imagine it would be perhaps at the end of the year. I will definitely keep you posted. If you do not "follow" this blog, you may want to sign up for my low volume swap participants newsletter; see the sign-up form here. Thank you, lenna

Marianne Baugher: postcard mail art

2011-09-16T17:45:00.002-04:00

From Marianne in Maryland, 3 beautiful textured postcards with wonderful images and quotes, sailed into my mailbox today. You can see more photos and read more about them on Marianne's blog.

Thank you very much Marianne, for your beautiful contribution. These are so cool! I am really glad your postcards made it here on time and I look so forward to seeing your Haiku ATCs in my mailbox soon. ; ^ )

extra postcard from Janet Fystrom

2011-09-15T22:48:00.000-04:00

I almost forgot! I received this extra postcard right in my mailbox today from Janet Fystrom in MN. She had already sent in her 3 postcards for the swap and this was an extra one, just for me. Thank you very much Janet! I love what Janet hand wrote on the side . . . taking flight on a summer's day.

This made me smile ; ^ ) very sweet . . . and appreciated.

Sharon Walworth: postcard mail art - 8 of 8 posts!

2011-09-15T22:33:00.002-04:00

From Rhode Island, we have 3 large, sunny postcards from Sharon Walworth.

plus, mail art too!

Thank you, Sharon!!!

That is it for tonight - 8 new posts for the postcard mail art swap. If I have counted correctly there are a possible 8 more swap packages to come in by the deadline Saturday. I also have 2 packages just arrived here for the haiku ATC swap due in October, one from my friend Frieda and one from Laurie Morris. But I will probably wait on uploading those ATCs until after I get through the postcards -thanks!!! lenna

Sabrina Hoeke: postcard mail art swap - 7 of 8

2011-09-15T22:21:00.001-04:00

I received a wonderful mail art package for Sabrina Hoeke in California today . . .

Inside was a package of 3 summer themed postcards plus an extra, for me!

The backs . . . they look great, Sabrina!

thanks very much, Sabrina! Check out more on her blog here.

sabine schneider: postcard mail art - 6 of 8

2011-09-15T22:03:00.002-04:00

From Sabine Schneider in Germany, we have 3 fabric postcards . . .

Plus, Sabine sent an extra postcard, on it's own (not in her package) which arrived in my mailbox a couple of days before the 3 she made for the swap!

thanks so much, Sabine! You'll find her blog here!

Kat Hou: postcard mail art swap - 5 of 8

2011-09-15T21:44:00.000-04:00

From Kat in California, we have 3 beautiful postcards that she created while working on her Photoshop skills!

I think they are really so pretty and exemplify a summer's day . . .

and the quote is perfect.

Kat also sent her postcards in a great mail art envelope!

you can visit her blog The adventures of a curious Kat to find out more!

Tiffiny Jackson: mail art postcards - 4 of 8

2011-09-15T21:09:00.001-04:00

Tiffiny from California, has sent in 3 larger size 8" x 6" postcards for our swap due Saturday. Tiffiny enclosed a note with her postcards saying this was her first swap and she really enjoyed the challenge. Most of Tiffiny's images on her postcards are drawn with pencil, followed up by colored pencil and some watercolor pencil. I am impressed that she hand drew all her images. They are very beautiful too - Enjoy!

front

back

click on the image for details

Tiffiny's envelope also had a nice bit of mail art on it -here's a sample!

You can find out more on Tiffiny's blog: www.writingmycourage.com

Pam Gonzalez: postcard mail art - 3 of 8

2011-09-15T20:52:00.001-04:00

From Pam in Illinois, we have 3 really lovely fabric postcards. This is the 3rd batch of 8 postcard swaps I have to share with you tonight . . . .

The soft printing of the photo of the flowers on fabric is really lovely!

the backs are printed on fabric as well.

I love this one!

Pam also so kindly made me a "summer's day" ATC and

I share it below with the card she enclosed for me.

Thank you, Pam!

Lisa Robinson: postcard mail art swap - 2 of 8

2011-09-15T20:40:00.001-04:00

This is the second of 8 postcard swaps I need to share with you tonight! From Alabama, Lisa Robinson has sent in 3 sweet summer garden postcards . . .

On the back I needed to move Lisa's email label to the left side to make room to address the postcard to the recipient. Many of you may not remember that I am going to send your returns home to you individually through the mail -not in a package.

All in the name of mail art!!!!

Thanks so much Lisa - I love the postcard tags.

Julie Wolkoff: postcard mail art swap - 1 of 8

2011-09-15T20:30:00.000-04:00

Between yesterday and today, I received 8 packages for the mail art postcard swap and 2 packages for the haiku ATC swap, wow! The postcards for the swap are all due in my hands on Saturday, September 17 -just 2 days from now, so I am going to work on sharing those first. Sent from Masssachusetts, here are Julie Wolkoff's fabric stamped and stitched postcards - I really love them!

Thank you, Julie. You'll find Julie's blog here.

Cynthia Zdanzukas: postcard mail art swap!

2011-09-13T15:47:00.000-04:00

Today I received Cynthia's 3 postcards from Connecticut inside this envelope below.

I think this is so cute with a postcard label!

Her summer's day postcards are below -click for details.

The backs . . . .

There are 4 more days for me to receive, if you are in this swap. If you aren't going to be able to make the deadline, please let me know. I'd appreciate it!

Janet Fystrom: postcard mail art swap!

2011-09-12T22:01:00.002-04:00

This weekend I also received 3 postcards for the mail art swap from Janet in Minnesota. Janet enclosed a wonderful note that had the "back story" on her postcards.
"Thanks so much for hosting this swap. It was a blast rummaging through my art supplies and dreaming about summer days. A friend of mine was cleaning out her parents/ grandparent's house and gave me a bag full of papers, lace and memorabilia. Of course, when I get "new" stuff I try to incorporate it into my latest project. So, your swap was the recipient of the treasures I received from a dear friend!"

Thanks so much for your wonderful recycled postcards Janet, and for the note and the postage stamps! So glad you signed up for the haiku ATCs as well. : ^ )

an extra postcard Janet sent in as a gift for me can be seen here!

Val Cowan: postcard mail art swap!

2011-09-12T21:41:00.001-04:00

From Val in Scotland, I have received 3 soft and beautiful, vintage themed summer's day postcards for our swap - thank you!!

Click on any postcard for detail, click again if you see a plus sign for a larger view.

What a lovely addition to our swap, Val. So glad to have you participate!

"I am" August ATCs - done & sent!

2011-09-06T18:55:00.000-04:00

I packaged and sent the August ATC swap home to all of the participants today - yee ha!! Thanks so much for playing. I had a little fun with mail art before I let them go. It was a small group with just 15 sets of ATCs, so it was my pleasure ; ^ )

I also could not help but create a slide show of one ATC from each set sent in, see below or if it is not displaying, visit the blog to view. Those of you in the swap, please drop me an email when you receive your envelope of ATCs and don't forget to email and thank those who you received from too!

A fabulous swap - I loved your interpretations!!!!!
: ^ ) lenna

* p.s the September ATC swap is haiku - hope you'll join us!

August ATC swap is closed: 9/3

2011-09-03T16:25:00.001-04:00

The "I am" August ATC swap is closed: the deadline for receiving is today!
We had a really nice turnout with 15 (sets of 3 ATCs) that made it to me on time. It will be really fun for me to swap these out, not too overwhelming!

I always check comments when reviewing the swaps and making my list to exchange, so if you are in the swap and have a favorite, please leave a comment appropriately. I will do my best to accommodate you! Thanks as always, and don't forget the September ATC swap has openings and is not due until October 8th. Find out more about that creative swap by clicking here. Monday is a legal holiday here in the USA, so the earliest the August ATCs will be mailed is Tuesday, Sept 6. I will let you know when they are all sent!

Decklin, on the right, will be 30 years old on Monday!!!

Yes, he was born on Labor Day!

: ^ )

Joanna Urbani: postcard mail art swap!!

2011-09-03T13:43:00.000-04:00

Oh my, what layered beauties my friend Joanna has sent in for our postcard mail art swap - so yummy! They are delectable, in my opinion . . . Joanna most have known I'd fall in love with them as she enclosed an extra postcard for me!

Joanna enclosed the postcards in plastic sleeves with a single piece of waxed paper over the gel medium to protect them on their journey.

Here is one postcard, fully revealed in all it's beauty!

don't you just love it? mmmmmm!

Obviously, I adore Joanna's style. I have many mail art envelopes she's created on display in my studio. I think I will mail these postcards in the plastic sleeves to protect them, putting the postage on the outside of the clear sleeve so the postman can cancel it. Thanks for not sealing them so I could take one out to scan! Below is the postcard back. Joanna shares a bit more on how she created these on her blog. Enjoy!!

love these!

Nancy Roberts: Postcard Mail Art!

2011-09-03T13:00:00.001-04:00

Nancy Roberts, who lives not too far from me in Florida, has made three awesome postcards for our swap combining fabric, paper, sewing - photographs and gesso. Not all on the same card! Let me share with you what she's done -please click on each photo if you would like more details.

Above, is one of Nancy's altered photograph postcards,

using a gorgeous photo of what she calls "rainbow beach".

This is where she used gesso - go to her blog to read more!! I have to try this ; ^ )

Below are 2 of her fabric/fusible batting on one side - paper on the other side postcards:

Please visit this post on Nancy's blog to read more about her process for these.

Thanks so much Nancy for your great mail art and all the lovely goodies you enclosed.

I can definitely use them!

(happy summer)

Barbara Johnson: postcard mail art swap!

2011-09-03T12:33:00.002-04:00

Barbara has been very active in creative swaps recently. This is her fifth swap in a year's time; the fourth one since June!! View all her swap artwork here - the link will include this post, just scroll down for the rest. Wow! Below is what Barbara came up with for the summer postcard/ mail art swap. Click for details!

I have so enjoyed all your contributions, Barbara!

thank you!

Leslie Hanson - August ATCs: I am!

2011-09-02T14:27:00.000-04:00

From Leslie in Oregon, 3 fun ATCs!!

She made these wonderful covers for them!

Inside, her fun "crazy cat lady" ATCs

the backs

the fronts

mail art : )

Thank you, Leslie!! Love those ears you are sporting ; ^ )
This is the third I am August ATC posting today! It is due in my hands tomorrow . . . if you missed the earlier posts I also added Barbara Johnson's ATCs and Lisa Robinson's ATCs -enjoy!

Barbara Johnson - August ATCs: I am!

2011-09-02T14:15:00.000-04:00

Barbara, from Illinois, sends us 2 sets of "I am" themed ATCs -wow!

the back of the ATC above, is below . . .

I am American

I am a hoot!

I am an artist

I am coming undone

Very clever, barbara - love them!!!

I appreciate your ATCs, a wonderful addition to our swap.

Lisa Robinson - August ATCs: I am

2011-09-02T14:05:00.000-04:00

I received 3 really wonderful ATCs from Lisa Robinson in Alabama the other day. Seeing her smile on her cards, just got me smiling!!

I really like what you did, Lisa.

Thank you for participating!

Josie Greene - August ATCs: I Am

2011-08-29T23:02:00.000-04:00

From Josie in Maryland we have a fun set of three - I am ATCs!

They are all the same idea with variations in color

-a great way to work in multiples!

And what Josie wrote for her "I am" statement just has me smiling.

Thank you, Josie! Love your stitching on paper ; ^ )

This swap closes on Saturday -all ATCs must be

in my hands on September 3rd to be part of the swap.

I can't wait to exchange them!

Madalene Murphy: postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-29T22:50:00.000-04:00

I have received 3 lovely fabric postcards from Madalene in Pennsylvania. She has written about how she made them on her blog called: working wall -check it out! This is Madalene's first creative swap and I welcome her. Great job! ; ^ )
Because her postcards are made only of of fabric, she chose to place them in a see-through crystal clear envelope. Madalene generously put postage stamps on the outside of the clear plastic envelope - perfect!

Click for details . . .

Thanks again, Madalene!

Sandra Granthon - August ATCs: I AM

2011-08-28T09:57:00.000-04:00

This is Sandra's first creative swap and it is wonderful to have her join us! She is from Pennsylvania and sent 3 ATCs for the swap and one especially for me. Sandra wrote in detail about creating her ATCs on her blog: Alchemy - Art Memories. Check it out! Through Sandra's blog, I found out about a summer promotion (free class) at Big Picture. The class is over now, but Sandra has some great answers to the prompts on her blog and there is a lot of interesting stuff on the Big Picture site -other free classes too.

Sandra sent this beautiful card with her ATCs . . .

I really like it.

and an "I am" ATC just for me!

I am on a journey . . . That is so true!

Thanks so much Sandra.

I am waiting on just a few more packages, due to me September 3rd.

I will leave registration open a few more days for any last minute participants!

: ^ ) lenna

Siri Hauge Opdal - August ATCs: I Am

2011-08-26T15:47:00.001-04:00

From Norway, I have received Siri's 6th creative swap, whoo hoo!
You can view all Siri's swap art via this link. She always includes fabric in her pieces which I really love. These "I am" ATCs sent from Norway are no exception!

These are the backs . . . I adore Siri's statement:

I am creating.
She says, " they turned out all blue, as much of the stuff i make do,
because it is my favorite color."

Siri's says her ATCs are made of "scraps of silk, wool and beads, and the backs

arepieces of a fabric i painted at a class some time ago."

Beautiful, I'd say! Click on the photos for details.

I think Siri made these ATC pockets because the sides are stitched in blue thread . . .

Thank you so much Siri for all your delightful contributions!

: ^ ) lenna

Janet Fystrom - August ATCs: I Am

2011-08-26T09:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I received 4 wonderful ATCs from Janet Fystrom in Minnesota. She made 3 for the swap and an extra one for me, thank you Janet! All of the August ATCs are due in my hands one week from tomorrow, September 3rd. I am looking forward to seeing the remainder of the ATCs in this swap, sharing them here with you, and swapping them out! Here are Janet's "I am" ATCs:

Thanks again, Janet. I love the clear cover you placed on some of your

ATCs, with teeny tiny brads! it looks great. I also like your combination -

some personal photos and some not!

: ^ ) lenna

Laura Hummel - August ATCs: I Am

2011-08-23T21:19:00.001-04:00

From Laura in Maryland, four awesome ATCs on the August theme of "I am". Three are for the swap, with an extra one for me -thank you! I adore Laura's style so I am quite pleased there is an extra ; ^ ) Here are the fronts, followed by the backs which include her I am statement - so very clever!

Thank you Laura!

This swap will be wrapping up soon. All "I am" August ATCs need to be delivered to me by September 3rd . . . can you believe that is a week from Saturday??!! wow. I will close registration for this swap at the end of the week. You can register for any swap on the Registration Page.

I believe this is my 6th post today as I received a lot of swap mail yesterday and today -whoo hoo! Just go to the creative swaps blog and work backwards from the top if you have missed any!! ; ^ ) lenna

Leigh Sanders -postcard mail art swap!!

2011-08-23T21:04:00.000-04:00

From Leigh Sanders who lives in Spain, we have 3 gorgeous watercolor postcards for the swap and an extra card for me. Thank you so much, Leigh! Take a look:

the bottom card had a note on it for me - I love it!!

back of the flowers postcard

I am in love with Leigh's style! It is so great to have a participant from Spain too.

Go to Leigh's blog,Ruby Barr to read more about her postcards and so much more!

Amanda Evans -postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-23T20:48:00.000-04:00

From Amanda in California . . . this is her first creative swap and her first postcard swap ever! Glad to have you Amanda. Thank you for the mail art, ATC and your postcards -wow!

3rd postcard + ATC for me

love the mail art!!

thank you, Amanda!

Read more about Amanda's postcards on her blog, Scrap Panda. ; ^ )

Jewels Oman -postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-23T20:38:00.000-04:00

From my friend Jewels (Julie) of Michigan & Canada . . . a summer's day is . .. a summer camp song!

Lovely mail art, which I so enjoyed!!

and really wonderful postcards!
Jewels painted those watermelon herself -wow!

just yummy!!

You can read more about Jewels' postcards here -she has a great blog. Since I spent many a summer at Camp, I can really relate to Jewel's summer day theme. Enjoy!

Laura Hummel -postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-23T20:29:00.000-04:00

From Laura Hummel in Maryland, we have 3 postcards for the swap and an extra one for me. Thank you, Laura!!

Just beautiful, don't you agree?? Laura's images are from ARTchix Studio and Alpha Stamps and I love the turquoise German scrap border she's used. Lovely!

Laura, you've done good and gotten them to me in plenty of time, thanks so much!

Lynda Roddy Ozzauto -postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

From Lynda in Illinois, we have received three lovely digitally created postcards on the theme of a summer's day! One place Lynda thinks of when she remembers a summer's day is Northwoods, Wisconsin.

She also thinks of Ocean Park, California and Myrtle Beach!

What do YOU think of?

You can see more of Lynda's wonderful artwork on her blog: paper, pencil, paste.

All summer postcards are due in my hands September 17th -

just 3 weeks from Saturday! If you'd like to join us, there is still space.

Go to the registration page of the blog to register!! This swap includes a 17 page pdf lesson and information on mail art. ; ^ )

haiku atcs: lenna andrews

2011-08-18T09:31:00.001-04:00

For the new swap that I just announced I made 3 haiku ATCs basically as illustration for the lesson that accompanies the swap. But now I can also participate in the swap myself, which I love! Here's what I came up with for my ATCs. Remember, they need to have a haiku included on the front or the back. More info is included in the pdf file lesson you'll receive when registering, so there's no problem if you are not too familiar with haiku. I will provide all the info you need.

My first ATC for this swap is based on a photo I took paired with a haiku written by an 11 year old girl. In researching for this swap I found a number of websites about haiku which I pass along to you through my lesson. I also give step-by-step instruction on how I created my ATCs.

Below on the left, is the back of the ATC shown above. I used a traditional ATC back because my haiku was placed on the front of this ATC. Below on the right, is the back of the ATC coming up below showing our sweet dog Asia. This time I placed the haiku that I wrote on the back of the ATC as it did not fit well on the front. Click to view better and if you see a plus sign, click again!

Here are both the photo ATC with the haiku on the front and the image transfer ATC of sweet Asia who hates thunder! In the pdf file lesson that comes with your swap registration, I go over how to do an image transfer from photos. It is really cool stuff!

For my 3rd ATC, I chose a haiku written by someone else that I found online. I used that haiku, printed on a piece of paper with the swap info added and attached it to the back of a fabric ATC with a card stock base.

Here is the front -

My first set of haiku ATCs -

Now I think I will do a second set!

I would love to have you join me for this -

I promise you will find all the info you need in my 10 page pdf that is part of the registration! Click on this link and go here to register for any creative swap.

; ^ ) lenna

new swap! September ATCs: haiku

2011-08-17T23:15:00.010-04:00

Welcome to Creative Swaps Monthly ATC (Artist Trading Card) Swap
for September 2011 ~ the theme is “haiku”

Create 3 ATCs out of paper or fabric, or use both. Your ATCs may be identical or different. You will receive 3 ATCs in return.
The theme for the September 2011 ATC swap is haiku. You can choose a haiku written by someone else, OR write a haiku yourself for your ATCs. I will provide you with a 10 page pdf that has links and instruction on how to find, write and incorporate a haiku into your ATCs.
You may use the same haiku for all 3 ATCs, or choose different ones.
All ATCs are due IN my Mailbox no later than October 8th. This is a firm deadline. Late swaps will be returned to the sender and all ATCs that are in my hands by October 8th is what I will swap.
TWO sets of 3 ATCs is the maximum amount you can submit.
You must register for each set - $6.00 per set payable via PayPal. Register twice or use quantity (2) on the registration page of creative swaps blog when creating 2 sets of 3 ATCs.

To register: Use the ‘Add to Cart’ PayPal button on the registration page of the blog: http://creativeswaps.blogspot.com/p/registration.html
The $6.00 fee to register for this swap is your non-refundable payment for postage, handling, documentation on the blog and it includes a 10 page mini lesson pdf file that pertains to the swap. The lesson walks you through the use of transparencies, image transfers and creating a fabric ATC as well as lots of links to get started with haikus and more on ATCs in general. The $6.00 registration fee covers return mailing of one set of 3 ATCs both within the USA and internationally!

When your payment is complete you will receive an automatic email confirmation from 'e-junkie' for your swap registration with a link to the pdf file you need with the complete swap information. You will need to know how to download a pdf file. Make sure your PayPal email is correct and can be mailed to or you will not receive very important swap information vital to your participation! This is your responsibility. If you have sent in a PayPal registration and have not received confirmation within 24 hours please email me directly.

As the swap packages arrive, I will scan your ATCs and post them on the creative swaps blog. By registering for the swap you are granting me permission to post your artwork on the creative swaps blog, with credit to you of course. If you have a blog or website and publish your ATCs for the swap, send me the link and I will add this to your post on the creative swaps blog.

Register and make 3 ATCs that include a haiku.
Send them to me before October 8th!

All ATCs must be sized 2.5” x 3.5” (6.4 cm x 8.9 cm)
Your design can be either landscape or portrait orientation
Your ATCs can be all fabric, all paper, or a combination
Image transfers and transparencies are welcome
Painting, collage, drawing, sewing, zentangles, rubber stamps, photography
any and all mixed media techniques are acceptable for this ATC swap
Your ATCs can be of ALL the SAME design, ALL different , or a mix
The haiku must be placed on either the front or the back of your ATC
All ATCs should be handmade - NO photocopies!!

Any questions please email me. I hope to see you in this swap!
Register here: http://creativeswaps.blogspot.com/p/registration.html
: ^ ) lenna

Valerie Tups: Postcard mail art!

2011-08-16T19:26:00.000-04:00

Mail art and 4 postcards, very old book pages and a book cover, German scrap pieces, handmade paper and a grid notebook all arrived yesterday from Valerie Tups in Germany! Wow. Thank you, Valerie.

Below are Valerie's postcards for our mail art swap. She took existing postcards and altered them, I love it!

Click for details. the backs all have interesting sayings about a summer's day.

A summer's day is when you have sun in your heart!

Visit Valerie's blog here. This is Valerie's 2nd creative swap.

Donnalee Nichols: Postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-16T19:10:00.001-04:00

My mailbox was graced with bright, beautiful, always summer - "Greetings from Florida" postcards, from Donnalee Nichols!

The back of the postcard says, A summer's day in FL,

bored of being an oyster, she chose to live as a pearl. ; ^ )

Click for more details.

Donnalee put extra postage on these so I could send them Internationally!

You can visit Donnalee's blog here.

This is Donnalee's 2nd creative swap!

colour my world ATC slide show!

2011-08-16T10:47:00.000-04:00

I thought you would enjoy this slide show. I believe some colour my world ATC swap participants are receiving their swaps now - I sent them last Thursday have already heard from some of you! If you have not gotten the chance to let me know yet, feel free to add a comment to this post, thanks so much! This slide show is in a shuffle mode so it will probably look different everytime you view it . . .

Each participant should see a couple of views of their ATCs in this slide show. To get a full-screen look at it, follow this link and then click on "full screen" in the right column. It is pretty cool, if I say so myself and so lusciously colorful! Thank you all so much.

I received postcards yesterday for our summer's day postcard mail art swap from both Valerie Tups and Donnalee Nichols. I will be uploading them later today . . . and I will also be announcing a new ATC swap very soon, our September swap due October 8th!

Stay tuned . . .

Winners for the 1000 post giveaway!

2011-08-14T21:26:00.005-04:00

I spent the day with Steven, away from the computer (after 10am!) but it was great fun. We went to St. Petersburg and took in 2 museums, had a late lunch/early dinner at the Crab Trap (yum!!) and stopped in to see my parents. But Steven had been warned that after 8pm I would be going back to my computer!! Here's the deal . . . I used random.org to give me 5 numbers between 1 and 86, the total number of names I had written down.

The numbers I received were: 34, 64, 65, 69, 84

I had been keeping a list as the comments came in, writing down someone's name one time for a comment, two times if they added the blog button and three times if they wrote a post about the drawing. Each name was written next to a number.

Below are the winners names that corresponded to the numbers picked:

34 = Sharon Borsavage from Pennsylvania!!! She wins one of the ATCs!
64 = Bobbie Bryan from Oregon!! She also wins one of the ATCs!
65 = Ati Ham-Sas from Norway!! She wins one of the ATCs !!
69 = Joanna Urbani from Kent, UK!! She wins a big fat collage pack!!
84 = Leigh Sanders from Gerona, Spain!! She wins FREE registration towards any creative swap of her choice by December 31, 2011.

Congratulations to all the winners!!!!!!!!!!! How exciting! Thanks to everyone for entering. I have all your addresses already from previous swap registration, so we are all set. Leigh, you can simply email me the next time you would like to register for a swap and I will set you up for free!
Please know that I would not have made 1000 posts if not for all the wonderful art that you all send in to swap! So thanks to you for helping to create this fun event! ; ^ ) lenna

lenna young andrews - August ATCs: I am

2011-08-13T16:25:00.001-04:00

I am very happy to have completed my own 2 sets of ATCs so I can participate in the August ATC swap with a theme of "I am . . .". Ever since I came up with this idea I've been thinking about what I might do in the back of my mind. My friend Frieda Oxenham really inspired me with the two sets she sent back in July. So, I carved out some time and started working on my ideas the other day. Lynda Roddy Ozzauto sent in a wonderful set received yesterday (see the next post) which only pushed me to finish mine today! Here they are below, please click on any photo for details. I will add some how-to remarks and photos on my personal blog ~~soon!~~ The post is up now, go here.

There is space in this ATC swap if you are considering registering -- It is not due until September 3rd, which is still 3 weeks away. The swap details are here -click!
; ^ ) lenna

Lynda Roddy Ozzauto - August ATCs: I am

2011-08-12T22:52:00.000-04:00

I got the most delightful envelope from Lynda in Illinois today . . . .

Filled with 3 ATCs for our August theme of "I am".

I have been watching Lynda learn about photoshop elements on her blog -

http://paperpencilpaste.blogspot.com/

She is really amazing me!

Thanks so much Lynda, for joining this swap!

My own "I am" ATCs are almost done and I can't wait to share them.

This swap is due September 3rd, which is just 3 weeks away.

There is still space available if you would like to join us!

Read about it here.

: ^ ) lenna

Colour my World ATC swap complete/sent!

2011-08-11T15:00:00.002-04:00

I am pleased to announce that the colour my world ATCs have been swapped, packaged, stamped and ALL sent -- whoo hoo! This swap included 27 participants producing over 100 ATCs mostly for the swap and some as an extra ATC for me! (thank you!) Below is what my pile of packages and envelopes looked like before I took them to the post office. It was not that huge of a swap so I tried to decorate with postage stamps, stickers or rubber stamps and also use up some of my mail art envelopes.

When I got to the post office I had them check my postage calculations.

Good thing I did this, because most of them needed more!!

I think I was using an older chart and basing the postage on large envelopes

when I should have been thinking "packages" for some of them . . .

if envelopes are too thick the post office considers them packages.

But they were really nice and helpful and Irene (on the left) said: oh no problem, I can add

more postage stamps. I know you like that!! They got a kick out of my

"The Mailbox is a Museum" rubber stamp ; ^ )

Now these Colorful ATCs are heading home to you. I hope you love them!

Please let me know and let your swap partner know (I swapped them as a trade) that you have received their lovely ATC. I know it takes a little bit of effort, but it is so appreciated.

If you need an email because you cannot find it, please write to me!

There is another ATC swap with openings, you can still join -

it is due September 3rd - Read about it here.

The postcard mail art swap also has openings -

it is due September 17 - Details Here.

Thanks again for a great swap! ; ^ ) lenna

Email Reminder!

2011-08-10T16:53:00.010-04:00

For my 1000 post Giveaway I am offering 5 prizes, but I cannot choose YOU as a winner if I do not have your email!!!! Right now I have 5 people who have commented, wishing to win: ~~C.Pohl~~, ~~Jane,~~ ~~Frau S,~~ (thanks!!) Jane T, and Barbara ~ whom I don't have emails for so I cannot enter them. If you see this post yourself, or you know one of them, please have them email me with their email so they have a chance at winning! If I pick your name/number and I do not have your email at hand I will have to choose someone else. I just can't go searching around. So, this is my last attempt/reminder to make sure you get your email to me when entering if I don't already have it from a swap or other conversation. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lenna

Sabine Busch: Postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-09T21:47:00.003-04:00

Sabine Busch from Germany, sister of Marion Bockelmann -whose art I just posted, has also sent 3 postcards for the swap and one extra for me. Thank you, Sabine! your postcard art has such a beautiful quality to it and I love what you wrote on the back of the cards. It is such a treat having your art added to this swap!

click to read

and for me!

Sabine's blog is here: http://stempeltanz.blogspot.com/
This is Sabine's 4th creative swap!

There is still space in the summer's day postcard swap if you'd like to join us -- and it is not due until September 17, 2011. More details are here, just click!

Marion Bockelmann: Postcard mail art swap!

2011-08-09T21:29:00.001-04:00

From one of my favorite mixed media artists that uses rubber stamps, Marion Bockelmann in Germany, we have 4 awesome postcards on a summer'sday theme -three for the swap and one for me! Thanks so very much Marion.

I adore this one, below.

This one is for me!

Marion's blog is here: http://bockel24.blogspot.com/ -enjoy!
This is Marion's 4th creative swap! ; ^ )

Good news! (July ATC swap)

2011-08-09T16:02:00.000-04:00

Good News!

Above: ALL the Colour my World ATCs -- swapped out! They are tucked inside envelopes to everyone who participated. The actual swapping worked out beautifully! If you received an ATC from me, I have ones of yours; it was even trading all around. I try to pair you up with something I think you will like or appreciate, I do not do random swapping. Now, all I have to do is seal the envelopes, address them (thanks for any labels sent), add postage to the envelopes and bring them to the post office! I should be able to do that tomorrow. The hard part is done! You'll have your swaps before long.

Please leave a comment here or email me when you have received your ATCs. Please email the person(s) who created the ATC you receive in trade. Thanks so much!! ; ^ ) lenna

* 1000 posts giveaway! *

2011-08-08T16:58:00.012-04:00

This is my 1000 post here on creative swaps and to celebrate I am having a little giveaway -whoo hoo!
Thanks everyone for entering!
I drew on August 14 and Sharon Borsavage, Bobbie Bryan, Ati Ham-Sas, Joanna Urbani and Leigh Sanders were the winners!

All you have to do to enter my 1000 post Giveaway is to leave a comment to this post, here is the link: http://creativeswaps.blogspot.com/2011/08/1000-posts-giveaway.html
To get more than one chance at winning, read "how to enter" below the prize photos. If I don't already have your email in my address book, it must be located somewhere in your blog profile or on your blog. If it isn't, you must leave your email within your comment. Disguise the email if you wish: lenna (at) creativelenna (dot) com or something like that. If I do not have your contact email I will have to pass you by and choose someone else.

Please make sure I have a way to contact you when entering to win - if you want to be able to win!

The prizes:

One FREE Registration to the creative swap of your choice - to be used by December 31st, 2011. -won by Leigh Sanders of Ruby Barr!
One very large, inspiring collage goodie pack of items picked from my own collage stash, things I like to work with. I'm showing one side below, packed in a clear page protector. Won by Joanna Urbani of Fiddlesnips!

Here is the other side:

everything laid out:

click for details

3. one 'fly' ATC ~ original collage ATC -won by Ati Ham-Sas of Ati's Little World!

4. one 'smaller moments' ATC -rubber stamp + paint art won by Sharon Borsavage of Livewire jewelry. : )

5. one 'works in progress' ATC won by Bobbie Bryan of Every woman has her chair! I will show my step by step to on my own personal creativelenna blog. All ATCs by me especially for this special day!

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

Leave a comment on this post. If you are reading the post in a reader or via email, you are going to need to go to the creative swaps blog, find this post dated 8/8/11 and click where it says comment.
Your comment can be any greeting that you would like to give me. I would love to get feedback on why you participate in, or follow along at creative swaps. Remember comments are moderated and may take time to be published.
To have TWO chances at winning the giveaway prizes, place the creative swaps button on your blog or website. Your visitors can then easily come visit me and enter the giveaway too. For THREE chances at winning, write a short blog post about the giveaway and creative swaps. Let me know in your comment that you have done any of these extra things. Please include your blog or site URL so I can go check it out! You will find the code for the button top right sidebar of the blog directly under the button. Copy this code and then paste it where code is allowed. If you are using Blogger you can add an html Gadget to do this.
You are most welcome to tell me which prizes you favor. I cannot guarantee what you may receive, but knowing what you wish for is always helpful to me.
The four prizes that will be mailed out will also include mail art from me!

* I will choose 5 names sometime after 8pm EST, FL, USA on Sunday, August 14, 2011 *

Good Luck! I hope you enjoy this giveaway.

I certainly have enjoyed posting so many beautiful and creative pieces by all of you!!!!!

Chel Quam - July ATCs: colour my world!

2011-08-07T21:59:00.001-04:00

Here are Chel's very rich "colour my world purple" ATCs that I received yesterday! I am happy they made it in my hands on time. Click for details.

My visiting family left to go home today so we've been busy, but I wanted to get this last creative swap entry for the Colour my world ATC swap up! Tomorrow I'll be back for the 1000th post here on creative swaps -wow!! That will be your chance to leave a comment for not just one, but 5 celebration prizes ; ^ )

July ATC swap is closed: 8/6

2011-08-06T12:20:00.001-04:00

I received one package of ATCs in the mail today, from Chel Quam in Washington. Hooray, the package made it! Today was the last day for me to receive for this swap. The Color my World ATC swap is now officially closed. I will scan and upload the last entry to share here as soon as I can. My youngest son and my sister have both been visiting this week and we have multiple airport trips coming up -but worth it, to see them. I'll be back with both the scans and an announcement about a celebratory giveaway for reaching 1000 posts at creative swaps. There will be multiple prizes. After that, I will work on swapping these beautiful, colorful artist trading cards out!! Thanks for your patience.

Josie Greene - July ATCs: colour my world

2011-08-04T23:12:00.002-04:00

From Josie in Maryland, 3 beautiful and bright colored ATCs!

I really like the background and how she stitched all around.

This is Josie's first creative swap -what a wonderful job!

Hope to see you return for more.

Very soon, I will mark 1000 posts here on this blog since 2007, even though I took most of 2009 off while we were selling our home in CT and moving to Florida! That's how busy you have kept me! : ^) 1000 posts is quite a feat so I will do something to celebrate -some sort of giveaway!

stay tuned!

Julie Wolkoff - July ATCs: colour my world

2011-08-04T22:57:00.000-04:00

From Julie Wolcoff in Massachusetts, we have some very yummy ATCs. Julie created 3 chocolate ATCs for the swap and an extra confetti one for me. Thank you so much!

This is Julie's 1st creative swap - thanks for participating, Julie!

Leslie Hanson - July ATCs: colour my world

2011-08-04T22:47:00.001-04:00

From Leslie Hanson in Oregon . . . .WOW! Leslie wants to color her world Orange. She wrote me a really nice note (in orange marker!). She said she loves my swaps and all the wonderful players but found this swap quite challenging . . . . until she took an Orange Tootsie pop out of the candy bowl at work! The inspiration almost knocked her over! ; ^ ) After that her only challenge was to make the ATCs with two 5 and a half month old rambunctious kitties flying around the room - love this story, Leslie. thank you!

; ^) fantastic!

This is Leslie's 5th creative swap!

Sharon Walworth - July ATCs color my world

2011-08-04T22:31:00.004-04:00

Sharon Walworth is from Rhode Island and we have had the pleasure of meeting in person. She was a student in an ATC book class I taught in 2007 at ARTFest4theSoul -in CT. Sharon and I have kept in touch via my creative swaps and email since then, and she consistently comes up with very creative responses to my swap calls. I think she really takes cake with what she has done for this swap, take a look and see what you think!

Sharon combined her ATC on top of a tag for presentation.

She wants to color her world, "Red Thread". Click for details.

Sharon registered for 2 sets of 3 ATCs . . .

I have never seen anything like this!

Sharon's take on the theme is most unusual and welcome.

Sharon used a small red clip to hold together the ATC and tag.

The tag holds the quote she wanted to send along with the ATC.

Her package to me --

Then, Sharon includes a decorated rolodex card (and blanks) as she knows I am not that familiar with them and she would love to entice me to host a swap on them! I'll definitely try decorating one Sharon, and take it from there. Seeing Sharon's altered rolodex card is a big incentive!

I absolutely love this quote!

Thanks so much, Sharon . . .

I believe this is Sharon's 14th creative swap!!!!!!!!!!

Sarah Boblit: Postcard mail art swap

2011-08-01T22:39:00.000-04:00

Sarah Boblit from Iowa has amazed me again! This is I believe, her 10th creative swap - it is hard to keep track when she has participated in so many! Sarah has done incredible beading and embroidery on her fabric postcards that have a card stock back. They are just beautiful, and I feel very blessed that Sarah made an extra postcard for me.

wow! Thank you, Sarah.

Angelika Westermann - July ATCs: colour my world!

2011-08-01T22:27:00.002-04:00

From Germany, Angelika sends 3 adorable ATCs, each in their own handmade envelope. She also decorated her envelope and sent me a beautiful tag, thank you!!

Angelika has colored her world Tan . . . .

She writes that this is the first time she has made ATCs using mostly paper.

click on any photo for more details!

Thank you, Angelika. I hope to see you in future creative swaps!

(This is Angelika's second creative swap.)

You can see more photos on Angelika's blog: Dragonquilts. ; ^ )

Crystal Gafa - July ATCs: Colour my world!

2011-08-01T22:11:00.000-04:00

Crystal Gafa from Utah, registered for two sets of ATCs. She sent in 3 gold ATCs and 3 copper ATCs to colour her world. This is Crystal's third creative swap! I am very happy to have your participation, Crystal.

Crystal sent hostess gifts of butterflies, vellum sentiments and Mail Art!

Three gold and three copper ATCs to swap. Click for details.

The backs. Thank you, Crystal!

Sabine Schneider - July ATCs: colour my world!

2011-08-01T22:00:00.001-04:00

These ATCs are from Sabine Schneider in Germany, who has completed 10 creative swaps with me!! Sabine has decided to color her world Pink. That sounds and looks good to me. Thank you, Sabine! I love your fabric ATCs.

Barbara Johnson - July ATCs: colour my world!

2011-07-31T19:13:00.001-04:00

Barbara, from Illinois registered for 2 sets of ATCs, so I have 6 to share with you. Personally I love that Barbara made all six ATCs based on different colors. She also sent them to me in a very interesting way, see below!

Barbara made two little bands to hold her ATCs and attached them to a piece of cardstock. This kept 3 ATCs in one band and 3 in another -no shifting during mailing and fairly flat. How ingenious!

Below are ALL of Barbara's ATCs:

Barbara would like to color her world --Maroon, yellow, white, blue, brown and red, plus she has great titles for her ATCs too!

Below are the backs -click for details:

Thanks so much, Barbara. When I see your name I always think of the "striped pants make me dance" book you made for the little book swap we had. I smile even when I just hear the title!!!!

Very happy to have you involved in another creative swap!

Susan Stewart: postcard mail art swap!

2011-07-31T18:53:00.001-04:00

From Susan, right around the corner from me in Bradenton, Florida . . . I received 4 colorful postcards for our postcard mail art swap. Susan's postcards have the theme of a summer's day being a wonderful day for adventure and travel . . .

Below are all 4 of her designs -she so kindly made one for me!

On the back she composed a cute little poem . . . . click for details.

Wonderful job, Susan -I am glad you could join us even though you just moved and traveled overseas!! ; ^ )) Follow this link to go to Susan's blog!

Andrea Millington - July ATCs: colour my world!

2011-07-29T09:42:00.002-04:00

I received a lovely envelope in the mail yesterday from Andrea Millington in Cornwall, UK. Do you think this could be one reason why I host art swaps, to get all this fabulous mail?? Well, it IS grand. Yes, some work involved -but worth it! Andrea has decided to colour her world: BLUE! She enclosed a note that said she was able to buy pre-cut ATCs and they came with matching envelopes, how marvelous. You can read more about how Andrea made them, including their texture, here on her blog -Indigo Blue! ; ^ )
I think I am seeing a blue pattern here!

Andrea also wrote, "My school has broken up for the Summer Holidays today so I am hoping that more colour can be added to my world over the next 6 weeks." Well, your colorful swap returns will be coming back to you during that time, Andrea -so I think your hopes will be turning affirmative!

This marks 987 posts since April 22, 2007. I think I should do something special for the 1000th post! I will put my thinking cap on and if you have any ideas you can email me or leave a comment -thanks!

Beth Bynum -Postcard mail art swap!

2011-07-27T22:22:00.005-04:00

From Michigan, Beth Bynum has sent in her A Summer's Day postcards for the mail art swap that is due September 17th. Thank you, I love receiving swaps early! Yesterday in my mailbox, I had the lovely surprise of one single postcard addressed to me with Beth's take on the summer's day theme. Today in the mail, 3 of Beth's postcards for the swap came in one envelope-yay! How delightful. Here they all are.

Beth has done what I would call her "signature" background with stamping under the butterfies. Many of the stamps are hand by Beth made using styrofoam. Beth took my collage on canvas workshop fairly recently and has had her own exhibit at her local library, selling her collages, so wonderful! I adore her layered postcards.

She says: A summer's day is as sweet as butterfly kisses. You can read all about how Beth made her postcards on her blog.

Thank you so much, Beth. Your postcards are awesome!

I really enjoyed receiving a "preview" addressed just to me first!

I look forward to seeing yours if you are registered for this swap!

It's not too late to join : ^ ) Lenna

Kat Hou - July ATCs: Colour my World

2011-07-25T17:29:00.005-04:00

This is Kat Hou's first creative swap with me. I am happy to have her! Kat sent 2 sets of ATCs in a beautifully stamped and decorated box. She also enclosed a gift for me that I could use in my art journal. Thanks so much, Kat! This beautiful little box traveled here from California. Isn't it cool??

Kat sent these cute cupcake papers that can be used like you see attached to her note.

What a super idea!

Kat would like to colour her world, Plum -- yum!!

Thank you, Kat!!

Kat has written about making these on her blog and you'll find that here.

And by visiting her blog, I found out she did a post on the box too!

www.acuriouskat.com/2011/07/mail-art.html

p.s. This is my 4th post today! If you missed the earlier ones, find them here:

Val Cowan

Christa Bockelmann

Lisa Robinson

Val Cowan - July ATCs: Colour my World!!

2011-07-25T17:17:00.001-04:00

Val has been swapping art with me for so long, since at least 2008! She has made some really beautiful pieces too- click here to view! This swap post will be at the top and all the rest of the cool things Val has done with me will follow after. If you are looking for your "link" to all the art you have done with creative swaps, scroll to the bottom of the blog. You will find the link list (VIEW CREATIVE SWAP ART :: BY PARTICIPANT) after the last post! Just click on your name and you will go to a page that has just your swap entries on it. You can even copy the web address in the box at the top, save it, send it to friends or return to it to view at anytime. I label your posts so your work/art will continue to be added to this page!

Now! Back to Val Cowan, who sends to us all the way from Scotland. She made ATCs that are a combination of paper and fabric . . . and even sewed paper -- all on a theme of: Colour my World Green, enjoy!

Thanks ever so much, Val.

I love all that you do!

Christa Bockelmann - July ATCs: Colour my world!

2011-07-25T16:51:00.003-04:00

All the way from Germany, we have 3 different colour my world ATCs by Christa Bockelmann. I loved receiving Christa's envelope! Below is the back. I have this stamp -it just made me laugh!

Such pretty postage stamps on the front. Christa also enclosed goodies for me!

An unmounted rubber stamp, some German text pages and music notes!
Thank you so much.

Below are Christa's ATCs . . . and I like them very much, Christa.
No worries about that! Click for details.

She chose blue, green and brown and gave them each a title -click to view.

Christa is the sister of Marion Bockelmann and Sabine Bush.

So much fun to have all of you participating!!

Lisa Robinson - July ATCs: colour my world

2011-07-25T16:37:00.001-04:00

From Alabama, I have received Lisa Robinson's July ATCs! She wants to color her world green, and has decorated her ATCs front & back.

click on any photo for more details . . .

Fabulous ATCs, Lisa. Thanks for participating!

Donna Parker - Postcard mail art swap!

2011-07-24T15:34:00.001-04:00

we have 3 beautiful postcards for our swap from Donna Parker in Mexico!

Donna created an extra one for me, so there are 4 . . . .

The ones directly below - summer flowers have a lovely layer of fabric.

Donna has more photos, more instructions and even photos of the beautiful mail art envelope she sent these to me in, here on this post on Donna's blog. Go give her a visit! I'm a frequent visitor there myself! Thanks ever so much Donna ; ^ )
You can find out more about this swap here -due September 17!

Laurie Morris - Postcard mail art swap!

2011-07-24T15:24:00.002-04:00

Laurie has been busy creating, this is the third swap I recently received from her! She asked me if it was okay to send multiple swaps she was participating in, all together in one envelope? I said yes - just make sure each swap is put in a separate envelope labeled with the name of the swap and your name too. Enclose separate mailing labels - 1 for the ATC swaps and 3 for the postcard mail art. Then bundle all those separate envelopes into one envelope addressed to me - that is fine. : ^ )
Here are Laurie's 3 "a summer's day" postcards.

I love this layered technique! It looks like a breezy summer's day.

Thanks again, Laurie. I appreciate you joining all 3 swaps and when sending them in, organizing each one into a separate envelope, labeled and with mailing labels too! Hope your summer continues to be creative ; ^ )

Laurie Morris - July ATCs: Color my World

2011-07-24T15:07:00.001-04:00

Laurie also completed the July ATC swap with a theme of color. Laurie choose Blue and Red when thinking how she wanted to color her world! Enjoy her lovely and creative additions to our swap below.

Thanks so much, Laurie!

This swap is still open for registration, but only until July 31st.

You can register here, for a special price of $5 which includes a great handout on ATCs!

All July ATCs - Colour my world are due August 6th.

: ^ ) lenna

Laurie Morris - August ATCs: I am

2011-07-24T14:58:00.004-04:00

Laurie Morris from Florida, has sent in 3 wonderfully bright and happy ATCs for our August theme of "I am". She has based her ATCs on the phrase, "I am free" and her ATCs depict colorful, happy dragonflies and also a butterfly. I welcome all interpretations of the August theme and this one really has me smiling. Thank you, Laurie!

There is space in this ATC swap if you are thinking of registering for it -- and it is not due until September 3rd, 2011. Full details are here -click!

Frieda Oxenham - August ATCs: I am

2011-07-21T23:09:00.006-04:00

Frieda's August ATCs have also arrived from Scotland (her postcards came the other day) - yay! The August ATC theme is "I am" . . . . . and Frieda has understood this idea perfectly. I love what she did with it. She has written all about her process making them, here on her blog. You will want to check it out! Frieda signed up for 2 sets of three ATCs and also sent an extra one for me, so I have 7 to share with you.

I chose the one you see directly above, bottom left. The funny part was when I went to Frieda's blog to get the link for her post about how she made them, I see that this is the one she said she was gong to keep herself! Did she make 2 pretty much the same and I chose the same one she did??? OOPps! There was another ATC waay at the top of her post, the one I kept is one of 2 she enlarged ; ^ ) Even though we live far apart, we have a lot of coincidences and similarities, it is even funny sometimes . . . . Frieda said it would be interesting to see which ATC I chose for myself. I picked that particular one because even though Frieda is a young girl in that photo, it really looks like her to me. I think it also reminds me of myself at that age. I just love these ATCs! I love all the color in the background, how Frieda used her handwriting, stamping, and she made paper cards not fabric -a challenge for her I think! Anyways, she has got me thinking about mine . . .

There is space in this ATC swap if you are thinking of registering for it -- and it is not due until September 3rd, 2011.Full details are here -click! Thanks so much, Frieda!!

Donnalee Nichols - July ATCs: color my world

2011-07-21T23:09:00.001-04:00

I received Donnalee's wonderful Orange Crush ATCs today, wow! What a color. Thank you for making an extra one for me . . . I chose the "Florida" one because it seemed so appropriate for me ; ^ ) Here are all 4 ATCs. See if you can recognize where some of the words Donnalee used are from.

Donnalee has a blog and posted about them here! (If you have not figured it out you can find out there). Thanks again!

Frieda Oxenham - Postcard mail Art swap!

2011-07-20T17:21:00.006-04:00

My dear friend Frieda, who lives in Scotland, is the very first to send in her postcards for our 'a summer's day' mail art swap. She did something really fun too! First, Frieda made an extra postcard just for me and then she sent it through the mail separately - only the one she made for me! I received that postcard first and it was such fun! A few days later I got her package of three postcards for the swap in the mail. : ^ ) Frieda's postcards are a mix of fabric and paper and she describes how she made them in this post on her blog . . . here: A summer's day fabric postcards.

Frieda created the fabric background herself -read how on her blog!

She also created the strip of fabric with a flower design that says, A summer's Day.

Then she took this flower design, lightly printed it on paper and used it for the back.

My postcard is the one directly above. ; ^ ) thank you, Frieda!!! I love it.

Frieda chose Train stamps for my husband and I, as we recently went on a train!

So cool.

A close-up of Frieda's stitching . . . . click on the card for a better look

There is still room in 'a summer's day' mail art swap should you wish to join us!

All postcards due in my hands September 17th.

Also -- Colour my world: our July ATC swap is also still open

with all ATCs due 2 weeks from Saturday, on August 6th, 2011.

The newly announced ATC swap for August - "I am" is due September 3rd!

~ Lots to keep you busy and creative and I still have more up my sleeve ; ^ ) lenna