How do handmade mugs, fine crystal, creature comforts like tea and gin, all while supporting handmade artisans selling on Etsy, sound for Mother’s Day?

by studiotullia | Apr 27, 2024 | DESIGN TRENDS, INTERIOR DESIGNERS THAT INSPIRE, STYLE TIPS FOR DIY, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

Have you shopped for Mother’s Day? What do you usually do on that day?

As a mother of 17 year old twins, I pretty much just don’t want to have to lift a finger come Mother’s Day. I want to put my feet up, maybe take a bath. No thoughts about meals, dishes. We usually make an effort for the awesome Mom’s in our lives – a fancy brunch with crepes, a trip to a beautiful garden or the beach. How about you?

I don’t need much, just a break from the daily burden of life. As I write this I am home alone for the weekend, which is rare. And such a treat. I’ll be melancholy for them by tomorrow. Just me, the cats and the dog. My husband took the kids to the coast to visit his parents. I wanted to buckle down and get some work done. I stocked up on food to make food prep easy. I watched 2 episodes of Dream Home Makeover with Studio McGee in bed with coffee until 10:30 AM. Dreamy it was. I am coming to appreciate the subtleties and freshness of white, neutrals, earthy accents. It’s all new builds, with few antiques, and in Utah, a world away from Oregon so it is an escape.

Now, I’ve got Brandi Carlisle on, a little more writing to do, and then a movie of my own choice. No science fiction, Avengers, Star Wars or action packed movies for me. Most likely an historical drama.

In fact, this song about being a Mother, ‘I am the mother of Evangeline’ by Brandi Carlisle brings me to tears every time. Check it out:

Mother’s Day. A day to treat one’s self as a mother, whether of children or furry ones. And/or a day to honor your Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, or any other divine being kind enough to treat you in a maternal way. When I think about it, there have been many: neighbors, friends, colleagues, teachers, relatives. It’s also a day to feel honored for the opportunity to be a Mother. Now that is a cause for celebration.

Need gift ideas? There are so many great artists/vendors on ETSY if you know what to search for. We all need to support small businesses and makers more than ever.

So here are just a few that seem extra special, with a few other sources thrown into the mix, to get this party started. What are some favorite shops for you? If you have any, please comment and let me know.

Here is my round up in a nutshell…

Here we go…

1.CALHOUN & CO. COCKTAIL PARTY TEA TOWEL

You need to check out this New York based boutique. The towels, throws and other graphic gifts are so whimsical and fun.

2. JULIUS ROBERTS THE FARM TABLE COOKBOOK

I discovered this British gent on Instagram and love the way he cooks. He started out in a posh London restaurant where he was soo burned out by the stress and long hours. He ended up moving out to the country where he now has a farm, hunts and fishes, raises pigs and goats, and grows fresh herbs and vegetables. The cook book is divided into the four seasons and it is beautiful. I am once again inspired to cook as he keeps it simple with a gourmet touch.

3. SPECIAL LEATHER GIFT

How cute is this? Send in your photos, pick your leather color and have a custom gift back to you in no time.

4. LINDA RENEE POTTERY

This potter makes beautiful pottery and also reinvents vintage mugs with her touch. So cool, don’t you think?

5. MOTHER HOPE

I love this concept of asking your Mom to recount family history and stories of her life in a beautifully cohesive way. If you are lucky enough to find a time to do this, these are the kind of questions one might want to ask. And this can be personalized with color choice.

6. HENRICKS GIN

A personal favorite; always a nice treat. The different gins and the cocktail recipes that can be found on the website are super inspiring for Summer time gatherings.

Boodles is also a favorite.

How festive are these?

And if you want to add lovely crystal barware, Williams Sonoma is always a great place to look…

7. CELERIE KEMBLE, ISLAND WHIMSY

One of my favorite designer’s latest books. Pretty exquisite.

Paradise by the Sea is right.

8. FLORAL LINEN PILLOW, STUDIO TULLIA

Shameless plug for decorative pillows by STUDIO TULLIA.

And you know there are many more where these come from.

9. JOYE MADE CLAY

Love her aesthetic – modern and lovely.

STEVEN SMITH TEA MAKER TEAS

By the way, a few teas that I really love, by a company from Portland, are also available online. These make great gifts with beautiful mugs.

10. CALHOUN & CO. PATCH WORK THROW

Again, the same NY company I mentioned before. Great colors and design.

That’s a wrap of some nice ETSY finds of late with a few other items thrown in.

Thanks for following along!

All the Best,

Suzanne

The Ukraine Crisis and Why Paying Attention to Art on Etsy Matters

by studiotullia | Apr 18, 2022 | DESIGN TRENDS, STUDIO NEWS, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend with your friends and family.

Despite Spring and a recent flurry of social gatherings, the stacking of tragic events these past few years still weighs heavy on us all. While I’ve been on a news diet lately, I’ve been feasting on the creativity flourishing on ETSY in support for UKRAINE!

Some and often all of the proceeds from art and crafts being sold by makers in the US, Ukraine and elsewhere around the world is truly a beautiful thing.

Just a small purchase of say a cross stitch pattern download or a digital print, by many, can add up to thousands of dollars in aid.

Never underestimate the POWER and IMPORTANCE of ART.

Here are a few items I found:

HOME DECOR

This Lithuanian linen vendor was clever in her solidarity…

VERVIDUS

Blue and yellow themed textiles can be found on sale by Ukrainain vendors on ETSY, in both contemporary and traditonal textiles.

VYSHYVANKA CARPATHIAN

ART on ETSY:

RUTZFAMILY

This ETSY vendor writes:

At 5 a.m. my two children, my wife and I woke up to rocket attacks on my city.
The Russian military began to destroy my country with heavy artillery, air strikes and other weapons of mass destruction. Whole city blocks have been flattened by Russian artillery and bombs, including a children’s hospital and a maternity hospital.
On that day, we lost our usual life, peace, stability, work, home. Our beloved Ukraine was invaded by the Russian army. Three million Ukrainian refugees, mainly women, children and elderly, fled their country.

I ask for your help, for help to the people who need it more than ever, for help to our children, women and men.
Today you have the opportunity to save us from the vile occupiers of the Russian Federation.

I don’t ask for much, If you are able to donate even $1, your money will be spent on medicine and protective gear for our army.
We want to survive. I believe in my army and my country! I want my children, my parents, the people I love to survive. And live in a country where bombs won’t fall on their heads every minute. May the whole world live in peace and understanding.
If you have the opportunity, please share this information through your social media, facebook, twitter… We must stop this war

Thank you ❤️
God bless you 🙏
Yarik Rutz 🇺🇦

Here is a madonna and child image reflective of the times.

Magnetfoto on Etsy

STUDIO TULLIA has its own version in the works, based on an image posted on Twitter of a Ukrainain mother in a subway station turned bombshelter.

STUDIO TULLIA

STITCHwithSUSIE on ETSY

This maker writes:

All profits from the sale of this cross stitch pattern will go to the British Red Cross Appeal. Stitch the flag of Ukraine to show solidarity with Ukraine at this time of war. #StitchforUkraine #StitchingforUkraine

MAURO OLIVIERA

This “United Nations 4 Ukraine Against War” collage by Mauro Oliviera is selling on CHAIRISH for $1,200.

OLGA MUZICIAN

Ukraine Mom/artist/illustrator living in PA who made this poster and wonderful mural.

And then there are loads of stickers available on ETSY…

DeliciousAccessories on Etsy

This artist writes in her product description:

Part of the proceeds from this purchase will go to support UAnimals and USA for UNHCR – the UN Refugee Agency. USA for UNHCR protects families being forced to flee from their homes. I can’t begin to imagine. Also, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are donation-matching up to 1 million dollars for UNHCR!

UAnimals supports animal shelters left with dwindling food and supplies due to the Russian invasion. Animal rescue holds a very special place in my heart. I am so impressed these volunteers continue to love and shelter these innocent, traumatized animals even though their own lives are in danger. Currently, they only have a Patreon page which I joined at the highest tier. I believe they are working on other methods of donations.

My heart is extremely heavy for the people of Ukraine. Sending an abundance of loving energy and financially wishing I could do so much more.

Politics always affects fashion.

The evolution of masks as an accessory remains a fascinating trend to watch.

DesignforSocialGood on Etsy

The supplier writes:

For every Ukraine flag mask sold, we will donate ALL PROCEEDS to United Help Ukraine. United Help Ukraine, Inc. is a charitable organization receiving and distributing donations, food and medical supplies to Ukrainian IDPs, people of Ukraine affected by Russia’s invasion into Eastern Ukraine and annexation of Crimea.

This artist has sold countless UKRAINE t-shirts since first listed on ETSY.

AEROTEES on ETSY

SnugglesandPeanut on Etsy

This Etsy vendor writes:

We have already donated over $12,000 from these bracelets! Thank you!**

**100% of our profits from these bracelets will be donated to World Central Kitchen, who already have locations set up in Ukraine and in the surrounding areas to feed those who need a warm meal. They are feeding people in shelters and on the borders, as well as other needed areas.**

BirdyShopFinds on Etsy

This Ukrainian artist below sells vintage clothing but has started producing and selling digital downloads like this one, which are evergreen and can be sold regardless of where the vendor currently is.

This Ukrainian artist sells vintage clothing but has started producing and selling digital downloads like this one, which are evergreen and can be sold regardless of where the vendor currently is.

WindfromthePast on Etsy

Seek out and hopefully purchase art in support of UKRAINE.

Art is often a catalyst for change, a repository of society’s collective memory. Every purchase helps.

BE WELL ALL.

XOXO,
SUZANNE

BLACK HISTORY MONTH & an ETSY ROUND UP!

by studiotullia | Feb 27, 2022 | BENEFITS & GREAT CAUSES, DESIGN TRENDS, NEWS FROM THE STUDIO, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

A sample of powerful and fun embroidered stamps found on ETSY by BLOOM EMBROIDERY…

PREMIO EMBROIDERY also has a great selection of empowering embroidered stamps.

And some body candles by Lush and Lavish Home – an Etsy top pick!

A wonderful Black History apron featuring vintage buttons from the Civil Rights Movement, available from The TRINIGEE on ETSY.

Fashion can be more than an aesthetic statement…

Smudge sticks for cleansing…the burning of white sage is an ancient ritual known as smudging. It can be used to cleanse negative energy lingering in your home or office, or to cleanse your own spiritual body. Use the healing power of flower petals and sage to clear your mind, ground your energy and set intentions.

7 Chakras White Sage Smudge Bundle

Loving these Star Earrings…

A great resource for t-shirts…SEAMS TO BE SHIRTS

There’s a sale on…

This has been a popular pillow from STUDIO TULLIA.

Eighty thirty

This print on linen celebrates 80 years of the Maison Pierre Frey and 30 years of Toxic’s career as an artist. As one of the pioneers of graffiti art in the 1980s, he took the walls and trains of New York as “canvasses” for his early work. Like his peer Jean-Michel Basquiat, Toxic uses art to denounce discrimination and violence against the black community. He was named a major artist by the Whitney Museum of American Art in 2006. – Pierre Frey

TOXIC

And some vintage silk pillows, also on sale, in so many fun accent pillow and lumbar sizes with unique custom trim details, tassels…

XOXO,
SUZANNE

ETSY predicts 2022 will bring intentional buying, lagom, nature, and greater brand awareness

by studiotullia | Jan 30, 2022 | DESIGN & STYLING, DESIGN TRENDS, NEWS FROM THE STUDIO, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

2022 DESIGN TRENDS

As someone whose been selling handmade designer goods online for over fifteen years, I’m used to researching trends, forecasted by countless “experts” for the upcoming year or season. While I don’t subscribe to the idea of having a totally trend-driven wardrobe or home, a touch of something reflective of our time always adds interest. It keep things from getting stale.

Wallpaper Direct

More marketing opportunities and online exposure for businesses comes from an awareness of current trends. Sometimes these predictions may fall flat and other times, take off.

You would be amazed just how much consumers are influenced by trends. More than you may realize.

Design: Studio Giancarlo Valle
Photo: Stephen Kent Johnson/OTTO

Image credit: Future PLC

It has been one of my obsessions, partly from studying art history and design, to look at objects within their historical and stylistic context.

Collage by David Vo

Societal patterns, as well as social, political, and cultural shifts inevitably impact design and fashion. And fashion is often ahead of interior design and more outrageous, so its especially fun to watch.

Dries Van Noten

ETSY, one of the platforms I sell on, has a podcast for its vendors (approx. 4.4 million!), that discusses how to market handmade goods, what to sell in the upcoming seasons, and how to prepare for 2022, based largely on their 81.9 billion buyer searches.

I’ve been gearing up to coach newbie Etsy sellers in the new year so I’ve been researching Etsy quite a bit over the last several months. Here are some of their observations based on consumer buying and search patterns.

2022 DESIGN TRENDS

1. SHOPPERS ARE MORE INTENTIONAL THAN EVER

Consumers care more about who they are buying from; the brand behind the company, what they stand for, who they employ, where they get their raw materials and manufacture their goods. Social media is providing greater transparency and allowing for companies to tell their story.

2. LAGOM

Etsy is calling it out…

What is Lagom?

‘Not too much, not too little. Lagom’

The translation of the Swedish concept of lagom is “enough, sufficient, adequate, just right.” While hygge is all about staying in with family (and potentially never changing out of your cashmere pajamas), getting cozy and chatting with friends in a coffee shop, basically taking the time to enjoy a moment of contentment (whatever the weather), lagom is all about moderation. Rather than seizing the moment (of hygge, if you will), it’s about living a frugal life with just enough possessions; everything functional and a life in balance. – Country&Townhouse

‘Lagom encourages us to create a happy life by choosing to live a balanced and fruitful existence.’

source: lookea.me

FROM THE ABOVE BOOK; Ten simple ways to de-clutter your home

Create a de-clutter to-do list, crossing off each task as you complete it.
Dedicate ten minutes each day to one task (baby steps, my friend).
Go one room at a time and organize items into three boxes: keep, donate and throw away (never a ‘maybe’ box – speaking from experience!).
Follow the ‘one in, one out’ rule – for everything you buy, one thing goes.
Fill a bin bag a day with items you no longer need.
Reduce the area where clutter can accumulate – dedicate a container for toiletries or a folder for paperwork. If new items don’t fit, then it’s time to re-think what’s in the area and get rid of something.
Take out all the items in your wardrobe. Remove hangers and then put everything back in order of preference. Anything that doesn’t have a hanger goes.
Create a memory box or use an accordion organizer for your kids’ drawings and other treasured items.
Keep a basket or bag by the stairs or in a spot that accumulates clutter and slowly fill it with items. Once it’s full, sort through and put everything back where it belongs.
Stick to the ‘one-touch rule’ for paperwork: sort it as soon as it arrives by recycling, or taking action.

Taken from Lagom: The Swedish Art of Living a Balanced, Happy Life by Niki Brantmark

3. VINTAGE/UPCYCLING/RECYCLING/RE-USE

‘Upcycling, recycling and using sustainable materials where possible is the way to enjoy the home comforts you love, without taking too much from the planet.’

Tejo Remy Rag Chair for Droog Design, 1991 – 1st Dibs

Vintage sellers are having their moment

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA ROSENHECK, Domino

Joann Palmisiano, vintage skirt turned pilllow, Rock Your Rental

4. ABSTRACT SHAPES, WIGGLES &CURVES…moving beyond mid-century

1 – VELVET KNOT BAR STOOL

2- PORCELAIN MATTE BIRDIE VASE

3- VEGAN SUEDE KNOT PILLOW

4- WOVEN BENCH IN GREY VELVET

1 – THE DANISH MUG

2- MINI CERAMIC VASE COLLECTION

3- BLOCK DECORATIVE DESIGNER PILLOW

4- SCULPTURE ART

5. CURVY, SCULPTURAL UPHOLSTERY

According to a recent VOGUE article on design trends,

“A curved form is subconsciously read as safe, friendly and welcoming. With everyone feeling a bit precious I think those softer shapes and angles will still be a big trend in 2022 in furniture as well as architecture.” –Sarah Sherman Samuel

“More gracious and sensual shapes, curved edges and deep, luxuriant seats.” -Martyn Lawrence Bullard

6. EMERALD GREEN

Emerald green is a longstanding jewel tone that is always relevant.

ETSY has announced it as their color of the year!

Balance, harmony, nature

Pairs great with metallics

Little-Greene-2018-Green-Colourcard-13_HR

Image credit: Little Greene

1 – PENDANT CERAMIC LAMP

2- THE JEAN EARRING

3- EMERALD VELVET PILLOW COVER

4- GEODE EMERALD GREEN COASTERS

What do you think? I think a lot of it is incredibly creative, colorful, hopeful, informed, fresh…should be fun to see what’s in store for 2022!

XOXO,

SUZANNE

5 Must-See Spots While Antiquing, Beach Combing, & Sightseeing in Long Beach, WA

by studiotullia | Jun 2, 2021 | MAGICAL MOMENTS, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR, TRAVEL & INSPIRATION

TRAVELOGUE:

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Hold onto your hats, people, Summer is here!

I made a vow to my dear friend who just lost her son to Leukemia, on Sunday, May 23rd, 2021: In memory of Sean, I would try to live the best possible year I could live. It has made me rethink how I spend each day.

Hopefully in another year, it will be habitual. Take more risks and seize life’s precious moments. You know how we all fall into our ruts. An event like this shakes your whole reality and wakes you up to the fragility of life. You realize just how precious each unique experience and memory with a loved one is.

So I picked up a pen and sketchbook recently and drew for the first time in years, just for pleasure. And I actually challenged myself to get in the cold water with my daughter, which felt wonderful.

1. A secret cove at FT COLUMBIA in Chinook, WA

INSIDER TIP: You have to park on the side of the road right before the entrance to the park and walk down to the right, through a field and then you will spot it on the right side, along the river.

An enormous tree floated down the Willamette River landing right in this charming cove that was a new discovery for us, just across the bridge from Astoria, OR on the Washington side at a park called FT COLUMBIA.

My daughter who loves to swim was determined to get in since access to pools has been non existent this past year. This is also where the Chinook Indians used to hide their canoes.

2. HISTORIC HOUSE RENTALS AT FT COLUMBIA ALONG THE WILLAMETTE RIVER

As you enter this historic park, you will soon drive up a hill to an overlook with bunkers and officers’ houses built at the turn of the century. This was once Chinook Indian Nation territory There are lots of trails and secluded beaches. Two of the restored buildings are available for rent – for reunions, retreats…the view is stunning, at Chinook Point, near the mouth of the Columbia River.

3. LONG BEACH, WA

Favorite spots in Long Beach include OCEAN PARK and LONG BEACH ANTIQUES TRADING POST just down the road.

Long Beach is a town known for its beach and boardwalk. The Long Beach Peninsula has a continuous 28 mile sand beach, one of the longest “driveable” beaches in the world.

Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to go for “The Longest Garage Sale in the country.” You really have to hit these events by Thur/Fri at the latest or the sales are rather picked over.

yard sale Long Beach longest garage sale memorial day

4. LONG BEACH PENINSULA ANTIQUES TRADING POST

I love all the maritime themed objects you come across like buoys, paintings of old ships, shells, sea dollars, oyster serving platters. Astoria (and the surrounding area) is the oldest town on the west coast so there is some good loot to be found.

marine_ antiques_long Beach_a_well-liived_house

I got this embroidered linen, GATHER TOGETHER, which will go in my dining room.

5. THE GRO DAMIT NURSERY

Another fun spot is this little nursery in OCEAN PARK that has antiques in the back. The owner, Judith, is a character, adorned with Southwestern jewelry including a bear claw necklace and this amazing bracelet.

Such a whimsical and lovely garden.

EVERYDAY SAINTS, THE VIRGIN DE GUADALUPE & MOTHER’S DAY!

by studiotullia | May 2, 2020 | STUDIO NEWS, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

THE EVERYDAY SAINTS PROJECT

The EVERYDAY SAINTS project has evolved out a sense of gratitude toward many individuals who have impacted my life or the life of others with their unique talents, inherent goodness and generosity. Having studied art history and countless saint images over the years, I can’t help but associate saint-like qualities with certain “everyday” people I have encountered. Do you have any such everyday saints in your life?

THE VIRGIN DE GUADALUPE is our very first EVERYDAY SAINT.

Why? LA VIRGIN DE GUADALUPE is iconic, universal, and relatable to everyone. Why not start with an everyday saint we can all relate to and honor: our MOTHER!

THE IMAGE OF THE MADONNA & CHILD THROUGHOUT HISTORY

If you go to The Metropolitan Museum of Art website and type in Madonna and Child, close to 3,000 images come up in their collection alone.

Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints, Taddeo Gaddi, Ca. 1340.

Madonna of the Catacombs, Rome, 3rd century (one of the earliest known images of the madonna and child)

Madonna & Child, C. 1280, Master of the Magdalen, Italian/MET

The Virgin of Guadalupe, Extremadura, Spain, late 12th Century

Carlo Crivelli | Madonna and Child Enthroned,1472| The Met.

IMAGES OF THE MADONNA & CHILD IN CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

This iconic imagery is just as relevant today in contemporary art.

From Gangs to Art, Fabian:Dora, 2013

“La Virgen de las Calles” by Ester Hernandez, 2001. | Courtesy Of Ester Hernandez.

“Margaret F. Stewart: Our Lady of Guadalupe” by Yolanda Lopez, 1978. | Courtesy Of Yolanda Lopez And The Chicano Studies Research Center At UCLA.

My EVERYDAY SAINTS have included neighbors, friends, hairstylists, colleagues, nurses, doctors, therapists, teachers, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers. The list goes on and on.

We all encounter these people in our lives. Someone that showed you extraordinary kindness in a time of need, or acted as a mother or a father to you when you did not realize that’s what you needed. So, I have created these EVERYDAYSAINT pillows as tokens of gratitude.

My mother-in-law found a Virgin de Guadalupe saint pillow in Mexico and when I saw it, while visiting their home in Puerto Vallarta, I sought to find one just like it.

After searching for quite some time with no luck, I decided to create my own. My talented assistant, Amanda, and I came up with our own saint, that honored this already iconic image, yet was our own unique version.

So here she is. We have created two versions: one with and one without roses.

STUDIO TULLIA’S VERSION

Roses play a part in the legend of the Virgin de Guadalupe and is also relevant to Portland as our city is known as The City of Roses. If you ever come to Portland in the summertime, it will all make sense.

IS THERE A GREATER LOVE?

Is there a greater love and generosity of caring than that of a mother? She seems like the ultimate saint that everyone can relate to in their own way. The Virgin de Guadalupe has become a universal maternal icon for Mexico and beyond for a reason.

I had fun searching for modern V. de Guadalupe images in all sorts of formats. Here are just a few…

SAINTLY GIFTS

How cute is this dress by ArtesaniasCamila, on Etsy.

Or this lovely t-shirt by ModernMayaDesign, on Etsy

I own these fun notecards, available through www.abramsnoterie.com.

How fun is this Virgin of Guadalupe Lapel Pin by www.opensky.com.

These are miniature saint candles by Pixie Hill Studio, on Etsy. I have these on my alter in my home office!

A great backpack available through CatholicCreativity, on Etsy

As seen on www.saintkitsch.blogspot.com.

Courtesy of www.thefolkartgallery.com/

If our Virgin de Guadalupe saint lady speaks to you, I hope that you will purchase one from STUDIO TULLIA for yourself or give one as a token of appreciation to someone else.

Enjoy 20% off La Virgin de Guadalupe EVERYDAY SAINT pillow or any of the PILLOWS from the ST. LORENA COLLECTION, good now through Mother’s Day! SHOP HERE

If you are interested in reading more about the story and symbolism behind THE VIRGIN DE GUADELUPE, go HERE.

If you would like to take a virtual tour of my in-laws’ fabulous home in PUERTA VALLERTA, go HERE.

#BESAFE, #STAYHOME, #STAYSANE

Thanks as always for following along!

IDEAS for FABRIC MASKS THAT OFFER SAFETY, COMFORT & STYLE

by studiotullia | Apr 10, 2020 | DIY, STUDIO NEWS, STYLE TIPS FOR DIY, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

This pandemic thing is starting to get REAL.

Well folks, it’s been a crazy few weeks. How’s everyone holding up? How was your holiday weekend? My twins turned 13 on Easter Sunday so we tried to make it special for them, although the gathering was very small, family only, no hugs, etc. We were able to forget for a couple of hours that things are still really strange.

Know what I mean? Major changes are happening so quickly not only in our households, but throughout the nation, and the whole world. Every day we all wake up and can’t believe this is our new reality.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS & HOARDING

As soon as Portland Public Schools announced schools would close, everything got crazy. Sounds like that was the case pretty much everywhere.

People started stockpiling groceries and hoarding all paper and sanitizing products. I went to Trader Joe’s around that time and there was literally NOTHING left on the shelves. I was in shock. Like I couldn’t remember my pin number, shock. And all I could find was a couple of sad red peppers and a bin of cookies. Soon after, people started cooking comfort food and baking like crazy; and next thing, there’s no flour or baking supplies to be found. WHAAAAT?

MORE CLOSURES

Over the weeks, as we learn more about this disease and the daily losses gain momentum, we are all growing more and more cautious, concerned and let’s admit it, afraid. The whole social distancing thing, lines to get into stores, business closures, anxiety around those particularly vulnerable, the economic fallout of all this; it’s a lot to absorb.

ONLINE COURSES & ECOMMERCE

Thank God the schools are starting to deliver online education. The kids have one subject in the morning, and one subject in the afternoon each day, as they rotate through the days with different teachers. That’s a lot easier than trying to navigate 6 lessons a day. This new reality will require a few hours minimum on my part, to keep them on track. And then there are the additional meals, snacks, dishes.

STRUCTURE

I have been growing concerned about my kids having too much idle time. They are finding online chat groups, FaceTime and group games, but spending a lot of time in their rooms, and on their devices more than I care to admit. I overheard one of their friends saying she felt it was easier to be in school then it was to stay home, and they all agreed. When they do return, I think they will have a new appreciation for what school provides. People are having to think outside the box, adapt to the new rules. We will all be changed by this for sure.

MASK DEMAND

The craft and sewing community has been asked by many different medical entities and companies to start making fabric masks. PROVIDENCE alone is requesting 100 million homemade masks and I know Governor Andrew Cuomo of NYC is offering up all kinds of financial incentives for the fashion industry to start producing supplies for medical professionals, as they anticipate an increasing demand for quite some time.

I started to make a few masks last week and posted some images on Instagram. Since then, I have been asked to make masks by several friends, family, and neighbors.

ETSY

Last week Etsy Admin put out a request for anyone who was capable, to start making masks, due to the unprecedented demand. As soon as I started to list them on Etsy, they would sell. I couldn’t keep up. Almost overnight, I along with 20,000 other artisans, were selling masks online. ETSY CEO , Steve Silverman, told NBC,” Our sellers are able to produce hundreds of thousands of masks a day.”

And, all of a sudden there was no elastic to be found in any local stores that were open as people scrambled to make masks. So I’ve been waiting with bated breath for my mailman everyday since ordering elastic online…

I started to make ties instead of using elastic and those are selling rapidly, too. Who knew my daughter had such a knack for styling mannequins and wigs. She even talked me into ordering more!

The CDC and many states are now recommending that you wear a homemade mask as an extra precaution when you go outside in public. Every time I go to the store I see more and more people wearing masks.

OUR IN-HOUSE FACTORY

I have recruited my daughter and son to help me cut out prototypes and press them. We have turned our dining room into a temporary sewing factory.

We’ve been having fun coming up with various fabric combos. Any broadcloth, pretty tightly woven fabric works: light weight Pendleton wool, cotton, linen, and flannel fabric masks are available. Everything is pre-washed so that it can be rewashed and reused.

People are scrambling to find elastic everywhere; pulling it from their clothes, fitted sheets, dismantling bungee cords or using alternatives like hairbands, rubber bands, and cutup pieces of T-shirts, etc.

I’m trying to select broadcloth fabric for my two layered tasks. There has to be a balance between getting enough coverage to feel protected without feeling like you’re suffocating. You need enough of a gap in the mask in front of your mouth that you feel comfortable.

If you would like to try your hand at your own mask, I have several links to tutorials on my Pinterest board.

WILL MASKS BECOME JUST ANOTHER ACCESSORY LIKE A SCARF OR PIN?

According to a recent article in THE GUARDIAN:

Masks have long been a regular feature of daily life in east Asia, for fashion and for health purposes, and are sometimes considered a sign of the wearer’s social responsibility.

“Whether it will take off as a fashion trend here in the US depends on whether stigma around wearing a mask can be changed,” says Christine Wu, a fashion anthropologist and former lecturer at the Parsons School of Design.

According to a recent article in the LA TIMES:

Major fashion brands are stepping in to help gather or make these much-needed supplies. LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton announced Saturday that it would obtain 40 million medical-grade face masks from a Chinese industrial supplier to distribute to French health authorities. Italian brand Prada shared Monday that it’s producing a run of 80,000 overalls and 110,000 face masks at one of its factories for Italian medical personnel.

I have to believe that some good will come out of all this. We are being catapulted into the future with all our video conferences and zoom meetings. And being forced to radically change and rethink our lifestyles. This situation has forced almost everyone to slow down, spend time with their families, plan out meals, take a look around at their homes, and contemplate what is most important. How lucky those of us are that are healthy, have a place to live and can keep food on the table.

GET OUTSIDE

Our family went to MT TABOR, a nearby city park, the previous Sunday, and it felt almost normal to have others all around, hanging out, and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. It was so important for us to get out, throw a frisbee around, laugh, and forget about this crisis for a little while.

Wishing everyone the strength and good fortune as we navigate through this unknown, difficult time. I truly am so sorry for the people who are ill, or know someone who is suffering. Or for those who have lost their jobs or livelihood. I’m concerned for the doctors, nurses, therapists, various medical specialists, all the people sanitizing, cleaning, doing security, etc.on the front lines fighting this thing, as well as all the employees of grocery stores, pet stores, nurseries, drug stores, etc. There’s tension in the air, but there is also great compassion and kindness on display everywhere.

#BE SAFE

Hang tight everyone. Wash your hands, wear your masks, care for yourself and your loved ones. This will end, we will get through this, as other generations have gotten through various hardships: wars, famine, plagues. Who knows, this “slowing down” just might save our planet. Until then, stay home, stay safe, hold onto what’s dear, and BREATHE.

#WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER

Sending out love and warm wishes to everyone.

EASY TECHNIQUES TO GENERATE ENERGY, PROSPERITY & CALM IN YOUR OFFICE

by studiotullia | Mar 29, 2020 | DIY, INTERIOR DESIGN, STYLE TIPS FOR DIY, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

YOUR HOME OFFICE SHOULD BE YOUR SANCTUARY

As many of us settle into our homes for an extended period of time over the next few months or longer, it is essential to create a work space or home office that is specifically your space alone, your sanctuary, where you can feel calm and productive.

Jeff Sheldon, Ugmonk

CHILDREN NEED A PLACE TO WORK, TOO.

I am helping my kids to create a space for themselves as well since they are home all day, and will need to have designated times throughout the day when they can get their school work done.

HOME-DESIGNING.COM

THE IMPORTANCE OF CLUTTER CLEARING

With the extra time we all have at home, it is a great time to clean up your office and your business; not just physically, but virtually and mentally. As you clear away the physical clutter, and the digital clutter in your computer, you will start to gain clarity mentally as well.

“Your environment has enormous influence over the way you think, feel, and behave. Over time, your environment — and the people in it— can make or break your success” – Marie Forleo

With tax prep on our minds, there is a lot of reflection on what works and is not working so well in one’s business, financially and otherwise. It is always helpful to review last year’s calendar and financials, and reflect on what you accomplished as well as what you want to change and improve upon as you plan for the coming year.

CALENDARS & PLANNERS

A planner can be a helpful tool.

LISA CONGDEN for Papersource

Calendars and planners are ridiculously cheap right now (75% off) at places like PAPERSOURCE where I found these fun items.

It is very easy to forget to acknowledge the triumphs of the previous year when you are always looking ahead. If you haven’t heard of MARIE FORLEO, check out her just released NY TIMES Bestseller chock full of strategies and tips for entrepreneurs.

HOME OFFICE REFRESH

So, let’s get started, shall we?

DECLUTTER YOUR FILES & YOUR COMPUTER

If you are in the throes of getting your taxes done, now is the perfect time to shred old bills and documents and create files and a system for 2020. Bills more than one year old can be tossed out but keep tax forms and receipts for seven years. Of course, remember to shred papers that contain confidential information.

This is also a great time to de-clutter all the excess documents and photos on your computer. I had a friend come over recently and he cleaned out all of the behind the scenes garbage that was slowing down my iMac. It’s also a good time to get rid of the countless emails you no longer need. You can search alphabetically and eliminate multiple emails from one entity all in one fell swoop.

Photo from MY DOMAIN

CLEAN YOUR DESK, SHELVES & DRAWERS, WITH A NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCT

Empty out all your drawers and shelves, one at at time. After you eliminate what is no longer relevant, and before you put back what is, clean all your surfaces. Vacuum and/or dust with a damp cloth your desk, shelves, and drawers. Something like this all natural multi purpose cleaner with cedarwood and sage essential oils from TRADER JOE’S is inexpensive and smells good.

ORGANIZE YOUR BOOK SHELVES

Go through each book and get rid of whatever is not relevant to your work. You can then organize by subject, color or whatever makes sense to you. I use baskets and containers to store miscellaneous items and remove visual clutter. Get rid of old catalogs, magazines, and books you don’t use.

IKEA

REFRESH YOUR WALLS WITH A FRESH COAT OF PAINT & PICK COLORS YOU LOVE!

Domino Magazine, Erika Bonnell

You can spend some time on Pinterest researching which offices speak to you color wise as it is entirely what works best for you.

Martha Stewart has a few suggestions in an article about Best Paint Colors for your Home Office.

Why WHITE or GRAY is often best for creatives.

REAL SIMPLE had a list of 21 best whites however if you live in a place like Portland, OR or Alaska, I recommend Mountain Snow by METRO Paint for $14/gallon. It is recycled, excellent quality paint and most importantly, it is the perfect white for bluish, northern light. Whites come in so many shades and it is important to pick the right one for your space.

In my case it was essential that I have white paint. If you have an old house, it also gives it a fresh and more modern look.

1. White always brightens up a room. It is so refreshing to walk into your office everyday. When the sun is shining in, it is especially lovely.

2. If you shoot products in your office, the background needs to be white. It keeps the light a pure natural light.

3. If you look at colors all day you might need a break from all the visual stimulation.

And for fun, you can always add a touch of color in your very white room; on the doors or add a mural or accent wall.

ESSENTIALS FOR THE HOME OFFICE

1. CALENDAR 2. CHANDELIER 3. PEACE SIGN 4. COLOR TRENDS 5. WALLPAPER 6. DESK 7. OFFICE CHAIR 8. JOURNAL 9. CLEANERS 10. PILLOW 11. PENCIL CUP 12. LAMP

DESK

Find a desk that works for your space and purposes. The most important thing is that you have a desk that suits your needs and that feels good to you.

Melrose Writing desk, ONE KINGS LANE.

You can also find unusual finds on CHAIRISH, 1st DIBS, or ONE KINGS LANE. IKEA has the basics as does WEST ELM, POTTERY BARN, WS HOME, WAYFAIR, etc. Or if you have a corner or special nook, sometimes a custom cabinetmaker or carpenter can help you out.

1st DIBS

You want to make sure there is adequate space on the desk, it is solid and stable, and preferably has space for storing files and drawers for miscellaneous supplies.

And make sure you have your computer at the appropriate height and your keyboard on a surface low enough to be comfortable with your sitting position. You can have major wear and tear on your wrists, forearms, back and hips if you have to stay in one place for extended periods of time.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY DOMAINE

Find uplifting accessories like cups and trays to store your pens, pencils, papers and other miscellaneous items. A nice trash can is always necessary.

SCHOOLHOUSE ELECTRIC

OVERHEAD & TASK LIGHTING

You want an OVERHEAD LIGHT with a dimmer switch so you can adjust the amount of light throughout the day.

At night or on an overcast day, it is nice to have the warmth of a DESK LAMP.

You want to pick a lamp you won’t tire of; that you love but is perhaps not too much of a distraction.

A COMFORTABLE CHAIR

UPLIFTING, MEANINGFUL ART

You want to select art that makes you happy, or that reminds you of who you are, what your interests are, or what your mission is in life/work. This is perhaps your chance to bring in color, texture or pattern.

SCHOOLHOUSE ELECTRIC.

PHOTOGRAPHS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY

Like a picture of your beautiful children at the beach.

PLANTS

Plants bring life and fresh carbon monoxide to a space. They remind me of hikes and overnights in the woods, which are always restorative.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEROEN VAN DER SPEK FOR THE DUTCH DELICIOUS MAGAZINE

PROSPERITY CORNER

With Feng Shui in the Northern hemisphere the primary wealth corner is in the South Eastern sector and in the Southern hemisphere the wealth corner is in the North Eastern sector of your home or office. You need to keep the wealth area of your home clean and free of clutter. Place items that symbolize money, abundance and prosperity in this area: images of moving water, such as waterfalls and crashing waves, a money tree plant and plants that cleanse the air, items that are gold or purple and items and images that evoke wealth for you. To learn more, go HERE

PURIFY & REFRESH YOUR FURNITURE & SPACE WITH ESSENTIAL OILS AND SMUDGE STICKS.

CLEANSE YOUR SPACE to CREATE NEW ENERGY and clear out the old.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Figure out which essential oils you like and you can use them as a room spray or with your cleaning products that you use.

“Remember that within your soul is an innate wisdom that absolutely knows what oils are needed for a particular activity or room in your house. So take time to tune-in to the essence of your home and your intuition before you choose your oils.” – Denise Linn(Healer and Practitioner of Interior Alignment)

I hope you found some of these tips to be helpful. If you would like a PUNCH LIST of items to consider for your home office as you clutter clear your work space, enhance the space with energy and newness and set your intentions for the upcoming year, click HERE, and I will send you a copy. And always, thank you for following along!