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:
This Lithuanian linen vendor was clever in her solidarity…
Blue and yellow themed textiles can be found on sale by Ukrainain vendors on ETSY, in both contemporary and traditonal textiles.
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.
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.
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
This “United Nations 4 Ukraine Against War” collage by Mauro Oliviera is selling on CHAIRISH for $1,200.
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.
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.**
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.
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.
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
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
And some vintage silk pillows, also on sale, in so many fun accent pillow and lumbar sizes with unique custom trim details, tassels…
by studiotullia | Feb 5, 2022 | CURRENT PROMOTIONS, DESIGN & STYLING, DESIGN TRENDS, STUDIO NEWS, STYLE TIPS FOR DIY
I first found the mother load of vintage textiles at an estate sale in Astoria, Oregon, a few years ago. Thank God my father-in-law was persistent in finding this place; the shop of an upholster, whose estate was being liquidated.
It was like walking back in time, to the mid century, with hand written notes pinned all over the walls, leftover fabric bolts stacked up on shelves and in metal trash cans. It was definitely a hard-working artisan’s work room. His adjoining house was also for sale, so that was super fun to see his formal 50’s-60’s era living room and his immaculately upholstered pieces.
I was completely blown away by the quality of the thick, cotton velvet and the richness of the patterns and colors. I wouldn’t have expected this bold palette to be so prominent on the coast of Oregon.
I was later told by the owner of local store, Vintage Hardware, that he was the only upholsterer in the Astoria region for quite some time.
The bolts were at bargain prices. The gamble was that this upholsterer smoked. A lot. The pervasive smell of stale smoke was on all of the textiles. I also wasn’t sure how they would fare after I had washed them.
Once home,I threw some samples in the washer/dryer and was elated with what I found. The quality had endured and they were just as vibrant and beautiful.
I honed my ability to clean vintage textiles, determining that 1/2 cup of vinegar mixed with detergent was the best addition to a load of laundry, to remove the smell. Sometimes even a second or third wash was required, but ultimately worth it. It was no small undertaking to wash and handle these really heavy, wet velvets.
We even had to replace the mechanism inside our washer after a couple of intense weeks of washing, so there was that…
The other gamble was whether or not people would even like this dated, retro collection.
As with everything online it takes a few months for your items to be found…but eventually, they became quite popular and really are a bargain for the quality.
Here are a couple of pillow combinations that you could work.
A mix of the old with new, or high and low… is always nice and less predictable.
by studiotullia | Oct 30, 2021 | GREAT ESTATES AND NEW FOUND TREASURES, TRAVEL & INSPIRATION
ASTORIA is a magical, storied old town on the Oregon coast. The Clatsop Indians lived there for thousand of years before John Jacob Astor and his crew, aboard the ship, the Tonquin, laid claim in 1811 to the first US settlement west of the Rockies.
In the late 1800’s, Astoria’s salmon canneries, forest and shipping industries turned the area into the liveliest boom town between Seattle and San Francisco.
Beautiful Victorian and Craftsmen homes along the many steep hills are testament to this golden era, now displaying historic plaques that speak of prominent sea-faring residents.
Astoria has a sordid history as well, of men being “shanghaied” in the early part of the century. A man walking down the wrong street at night could wake up the next morning and find himself out at sea.
And there are many rumors of old homes being haunted by ghosts from the past.
All of this, in a town at the mouth of the Columbia River that feeds into the Pacific Ocean, known as the graveyard of the Pacific, due to the hundreds of shipwrecks from treacherous waters.
Mariners agree that the combination of high seas, a mighty river, land shallow, and shifting sand bars make the Columbia River bar one of the most dangerous bar crossings in the world.
The FLAVEL HOUSE, built in 1884-1886, is the most grand house in Astoria, that cannot be missed as you enter the town. Captain Flavel, Astoria’s first millionaire, lived a colorful life as an entrepreneur and bar pilot, guiding ships through the treacherous mouth of the Columbia River.
The Captain George Flavel House reflects the Queen Anne architecture, popular during the Victorian era.
A walk around the mansion provides views of the wraparound porch, decorative work above the window molding, octagonal tower, patterned shingles, the steeply pitched roof, and the asymmetrical façade.
Over the years, this mysterious mansion has played host to a number of eerie residents, both human and spectral.
(Can’t fail to mention the colorful tile on the porch of the house).
At one point in time, the Flavel family was one of the most prominent families in Astoria.
Operated by the Clatsop County Historical Society since 1950, it is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places.
Right next to the FLAVEL HOUSE, is the former county jail, now known as the:
(where a scene from cult classic, The Goonies, was filmed.)
If you are mindful of the current residents I recommend a visit there. You have to see cult classic, THE GOONIES, first though. I’m sure just about every hotel in Astoria must have a copy!
The house where The Goonies was filmed.
The other Flavel House in Astoria, the home of “Hatchet” Harry Flavel, was once regarded as the most haunted house in Oregon.
The abandoned house was left to rot out of spite, haunted by the decline of the city’s most prominent and mysterious family.
This once stately home sat abandoned and decrepit on the corner of 15th and Franklin for decades, a testament to the decline of the legendary Flavel family into a strange and reclusive bunch after George’s death.
It was in this house that the captain’s great-grandson, “Hatchet” Harry Flavel, lived with his mother Florence and sister Mary at the time of the stabbing.
Many people in the community claim that the decaying house, which sat abandoned for so long, was actually haunted. In 2015, after decades of being abandoned, Greg Newenhof bought the Flavel house and began the restoration process...For more info on this fascinating house, go HERE
The Liberty Theater is a historic vaudeville theatre and cinema. It opened in 1925 after the destruction of the Astoria Fire of 1922. The Liberty Theater was built in the Italian Renaissance style, seen as symbolizing the city’s rebirth. The auditorium features mural style paintings depicting Venetian scenes by local artist Joseph Knowles.
A ghost by the name of Paul is said to live here. Over the years, many members of cast and crew have spotted him around the theater and even witnessed objects gliding through the air.
FT STEPHENS STATE PARK /THE WRECK OF PETER IREDALE
FORT STEVENS STATE PARK UNESCO estimated there are three million shipwrecks in the world. Most are under the sea. Only a few can be visited by land. The Peter Ireland is one of them.
Peter Iredale was a four-masted steel barque sailing vessel that ran ashore October 25, 1906, on the Oregon coast en route to the Columbia River. She was abandoned on Clatsop Spit near Fort Stevens in Warrenton about four miles south of the Columbia River channel.
Over the last 101 years it has slowly deteriorated.
One can still see a very large piece of the ship and during low tide one can walk right up to it.
The Pioneer Cemetery was deeded to the city by a man named James Welch on April 22, 1865. It became the most popular burial site in town, boasting 498 burials by 1891. Prominent early leaders were buried here, as were paupers who were interred in unmarked graves.
Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the terrifying history of this place will send chills down your spine. Located beneath the streets of Astoria, these tunnels are said to have been a hotspot for illegal activity (most notably between 1850-1941), including “shanghaiing”: the act of kidnapping people and selling them into slavery as crewmen on departing ships. The tunnels are said to be haunted by the ghosts of the tunnel’s many victims. Visitors have claimed to hear disembodied screams and groans, and felt the eery sensation that someone was standing right behind them.
Well,I hope this inspired you to check out Astoria and visit some of it spookiest spots.
Here is a downloadable list if you are interested (just click on the link below):
by studiotullia | Jun 2, 2021 | MAGICAL MOMENTS, THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR, TRAVEL & INSPIRATION
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.
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.
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.
I got this embroidered linen, GATHER TOGETHER, which will go in my dining room.
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.
by studiotullia | May 10, 2020 | ONE ROOM CHALLENGE, STYLE TIPS FOR DIY, SUZANNE'S DESIGN PROJECTS
My daughter, husband, and I have decided to participate in this year’s Spring 2020 ONE ROOM CHALLENGE.
I have done several of these over the years; the last one being my son’s room last Fall.
If you are not familiar with this event, you may participate if you are an interior designer/DIYer. You must also have a blog or business instagram account and be able to report on your progress weekly. The timeline is 5 weeks with the sixth week being the FINAL REVEAL.
Several featured designers are asked to participate by the host and creator, Linda Weinstein. Many sponsors participate in this event and they offer these designers products for the rooms.
The six-week timeline and required weekly blog posts create a structure for steady progress. Having to share your project with an audience requires accountability, which is also helpful . We all know how easy it is to leave DIY projects in limbo around the house.
One has to deliver on the FINAL REVEAL. It has to be worth the build up. Somehow it also gets others around the house on board.
My daughter is home along with her brother 24/7 so we could all use not only some structure, but a fun project. She is old enough to help Mama out and she has some strong opinions about where we are headed design wise.
Here all of the featured designers this Spring:
If you can’t get enough, you may want to follow along with the designer guest participants as well. So much inspiration can be found here and so little time (or maybe not?) with all of these designers and DIYers.
My daughter Charlotte has just turned 13 in April and is ready to change her room
Charlotte was quite a bit younger the first time we remodeled her room, but she participated in just about every aspect of the project then, too. It was 2015 and she had very different interests and color choices back then.
A LITTLE BACKGROUND ON CHARLOTTE
She has kept the same small room by choice over the years. She likes the coziness of it. Besides a new color palette and a refresh, she really needs adequate desk space, especially with all the online learning classes these days. Hip-hop, art and baking occupy a lot of her time. Charlotte is also into fashion and has a certain “street style” which involves distressed jeans, over-sized shirts, hoodies, hats and bandanas. She is not a follower. She usually lays out her outfits out the night before school and most of her allowance goes toward clothes.
THE QUEST FOR THE PERFECT LOFT BED
We have been shopping for a while for the right loft bed that would create more space in her tiny room. Some leftover plywood shelves given to us by a dear friend, just a week ago, provided the impetus for my husband to commit to the custom bed project. Thank you, IVAN!!!
My husband and I are often challenged when collaborating together but for the most part,I let him run with the bed design. So far, he and Charlotte have been side by side on this project. The two of them have been working on the bed pretty much all last weekend. They have cut out all the pieces which now need to be sanded, painted and eventually installed into the room. In the meantime, Charlotte and I will be getting a lot of the design details and color choices finalized this coming week.
I am a big believer in the law of attraction when it comes to design projects. For some mysterious reason, every time I embark on one of these ORC things just start to fall into place. I will demonstrate to you how this works over the next few weeks. For starters, I found a huge oval mirror that someone had left out on the curb just the other day. It is perfect for Charlotte’s one wall, that will help to visually enlarge her space. It looks like there were once lights behind it, so we are going to reinstall some lighting as well which should create some drama.
They are cutting all the wood for the bed.
Side pieces for the bed. My husband says “I’ve got this.”
My husband is all about safety and reinforcement when it comes to DIY projects. I am not loving the “F” corner pieces, as I would go for a simpler design, but I need to let that go…he’s getting it done and my daughter is learning great wood shop and engineering skills. Until, next week…
#STAYSAFE, #STAYHOME , #STAYCALM&DESIGNON
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
PHOTOGRAPHS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY
Like a picture of your beautiful children at the beach.
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
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.
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!
by studiotullia | Feb 26, 2020 | DIY, INTERIOR DESIGN
Chronicles from a Well Lived House…
Last Summer I decided to focus on clearing out the clutter in my home.
With the twins approaching their teen years, I’ve been on a spiritual journey, soul searching, whatever you want to call it, for over a year now. My role as a Mother is shifting and I am starting to feel some sense of relief from the whirlwind of child-rearing.
While listening to a podcast on HayHouse, I came across a clutter clearing course being offered by DENISE LINN.
Besides motivating me to clear the clutter in my own house, I felt I might share these techniques with my future clients as I move toward more a more conscious approach to design in 2020.
Designing interiors is different now than it was a decade ago. Before I had kids. Having children has changed my home experience and view of how it should function, at least for a family. And this world has changed a lot. There is a greater awareness of climate change, our footprint, a greater desire for sustainably produced furnishings and textiles. And with the amount of data being thrown at us everyday and the world as cray, cray as it is these days, we all need a personal sanctuary we can call truly call home.
A lot of things get put off when you are doing overtime, whether it is caring for others or delving into a demanding project or career. When we are super busy, things accumulate and certain areas of one’s life are neglected. In my case, it has sometimes been my health, both mentally and physically, and also my physical household, both inside and out.
SORTING THROUGH STUFF BRINGS STUFF UP.
So over the least year I’ve really sought out the help of experts, authors and an amazing Jungian therapist. Deciding to get rid of stuff means you have to be resolved about the feelings associated with that object. LINN talks about how everything you bring into your home has energy and you have to become attuned to the kind of energy each object has and then decide if you want it in your life or not. She also gives you permission to give away unwanted gifts, books, old cards, clothes that are too tight; anything you haven’t used in over a year.
Entrepreneurial-focused, financial and self help books often say in one way or another to take stock of your life and your belongings. How you spend your time and money tells you what your values are. If there are a lot of things in your life that you own but don’t use, you need to ask yourself why you still have them.
This has not been an overnight process for me, personally. There is also the matter of negotiating with and motivating my husband and kids throughout this process. Once they let go, they have come to appreciate the rewards of selling unwanted toys at garage sales and resale stores. And, many unused toys and clothes have gone to a nearby shelter for women and children this past holiday season. That experience left us with an enormous boon of gratitude around a time when we can get caught up in spending on things we really don’t need to gift to others.
YOU CANNOT UNDERVALUE THE GIFT OF HOMEMADE GOODS AS THEY ARE SUCH AN AUTHENTIC TOKEN OF LOVE FOR SOMEONE.
Or, try to focus on things that can be consumed, rather than possessed. Fine foods like jams or canned goods are always wonderful, or a class, a subscription service, a membership, a gift card, etc.
AS ON THE OUTSIDE, SO ON THE INSIDE
Financial and physical clutter has been prevalent in my family for generations. You don’t realize just how many of these thoughts, beliefs and patterns are imbedded in you at an early age. I am trying to raise my consciousness and improve these areas of my life. As my therapist says, “On the inside, so as on the outside. On the outside, so as on the inside. This is also the biggest Secret of Life, right? As Within – What do we think within ourselves- So Without – Will be expressed or reflected on the world we live.
So, I would like to share with you some of the things that I have learned along this journey with the intention that it might help you with clearing out the clutter in your own life. I feel that a lot of techniques I have employed are helping to elevate my life, my home and that of my family.
I OVERHAULED MY DESIGN STUDIO
For starters, I did a major purge in my design studio. I went through shelves and shelves of fabric I’d accumulated over the years and what I no longer wanted, I donated. This allowed me to discern what remained asset-wise for my business. By taking away a lot of the noise of years and years of textile and materials consumption, which was a part of my business, I came to see what I now value for my collection moving forward, with a stronger vision for my future. I cleaned out files, purged outdated books and magazines, reorganized my shipping closet and many other areas of my office. As I enter a new, cleaner phase of my life, I feel I am making room for new things to happen. For years, I just did, status quo, was very busy, and it was enough.
I know many women (or rockstar men in some cases) choose to stay home for the first several years of child rearing if they can. It was important to me for a number of reasons. My Mother was a divorced, full time nurse, with late night hours, and was not always able to be around. I missed her a lot growing up, so I wanted to be there for my kids. Also, I started a family a little late to the game. At age 41, I had experienced a lot of life already and was ready for a new chapter. I had tried for over four years to get pregnant, so I felt truly blessed when my husband and I were given the gift of twins. I could not stand to be away from my kids when I first went back to work. I would cry on my way to work, and speed home at the end of the day. It was bad. I would even ask parents who came into WILLIAMS SONOMA HOME, where I worked as a Designer, if I could hold their precious babies.
Now, at 54, I am waking up to how I’ve spent the last decade as a stay at home Mom and entrepreneur. I’m proud of my husband and I, how we’ve together have raises our wonderful children to the ripe age of 13 in two weeks (!), and also of the business I’ve built. STUDIO TULLIA has made and shipped thousands of handmade goods to over 34 countries worldwide and throughout the US. I have over 500 five star reviews that attest to the quality of our work and customer service. My four person team, is a strong and a well oiled machine. I’ve been able to stay at home, work, and contribute to our financial well being. And, of course I cannot fail to mention that I have had sooooo much help from my husband, family, friends, and neighbors, in growing and surviving as a family. We have been blessed beyond words. I never really understood just how much it truly does take a village to raise a child.
I am on a path of self discovery. I am trying to put myself out there: go to events, conferences, read more, listen to all sorts of podcasts, meditate, walk, do yoga. I went to a great conference last year, in Palm Springs, called ALT SUMMIT, for creative entrepreneurs.
It was there that I had my first five days solo, in several years, surrounded by creative women and mothers of all ages. It was fantastic. It was an all accepting environment of sharing the lessons of failure and success as creative business owners. That conference taught me to be AUTHENTIC. REAL. Wild hair, wrinkles and all.
This week, I am off to San Francisco for the DESIGN INFLUENCERS CONFERENCE, which I’ve been curious about for years. Alexa Hampton, Nate Berkus, and so many other great designers and speakers will be there. I’m hoping to find inspiration as I start my path toward writing more and bolstering the designer inside myself. The struggle to stay relevant in the online world is real, people, and it’s time to up my game. But, I also want to get out of the house, be inspired, find my voice and foster my tribe.
DID I DIGRESS? I’M SORRY. BACK TO CLUTTER.
So, the MARIE KONDO thing has been sweeping the world (no pun intended) for quite awhile now and she has helped me work magic on my drawers with her amazing folding technique. I like that she honors the houses of all her clients when she first enters with a few moments of prayer.
“Does it Spark Joy?” has become universal mantra. And watching her show makes me feel better as there are many others who have clutter. Check out the trailer HERE if you are interested.
But, I was ultimately drawn to clutter clearing guru and Cherokee spiritual healer DENISE LINN.
I took her three-month online course this past Summer. She is an author, healer and practitioner of Interior Realignment. She has helped me shift how I think about both cleaning and creating positive energy and a flow in my home. To tell you the truth, before I signed up, I participated in a free mini course that she offered and had a strange experience. She was talking me through what she calls a mindful mediation/inner journey and I was focusing on an old house that had great significance in my family. I felt like I was wincing and couldn’t catch my breath. It was odd enough to make me think this woman had some real power. This house is in North Carolina and in Cherokee country which also seemed like an interesting connection. And she seems like a nice person. I was sold.
Since then, I feel that I am working toward creating a more sacred space for myself and my family. It is feeling more and more like a home and a sanctuary with each space in my house that I cleanse. I’ve learned that sometimes just clearing out a drawer or a corner of a room can give you a sense of accomplishment and calm.
LINN’s approach appealed to me for many reasons. She is incredibly knowledgeable about people and their relationships toward their homes, and their things. She has travelled and studied many different cultures, written over 15 books and she is spiritual in her approach. She goes deep with guided inner journeys as part of her clutter clearing process and she takes you through the steps toward clearing out your home, room by room. It has really helped.
It has also informed how I look at my work as a designer. I want to help others really enjoy their home, not just sell them stuff. In this era, we all need a safe, nurturing, and bright place to come home to.
In the coming months, I will share with you some of the techniques I have learned, highlights from the course, and show you how they are manifesting in my own home.
Thanks as always for following along!
by studiotullia | Apr 6, 2018 | DIY, INTERIOR DESIGN
Well, folks, I’ve decided to sign up for yet another ONE ROOM CHALLENGE. This year’s challenge? MY DINING ROOM.
As much as these six week projects add serious chaos to our already hectic lives at the homestead, its all about the results. And the commitment to improve one more room in this old house. It makes us do stuff we wouldn’t normally get done, in a timely manner. Lets face it; the weekly accountability piece and the encouragement from watching other participants really helps. When I tell my husband, he rolls his eyes with a look of concern on his face, wondering I’m sure, what this is going to cost.
If you are not already familiar with the ONE ROOM CHALLENGE, it is a bi-annual event created by Linda from CALLING IT HOME that has been going on for thirteen years now. There are some seriously talented DESIGNERS that are asked to participate:
Over a hundred GUEST PARTICIPANTS like myself that must be design bloggers also volunteer to participate:
This is my fourth ORC. I will include links with the final results of my previous ORC rooms at the end of this article if you are curious.
So onward. Here is my very ORANGE dining room. It may be hard to believe this, but the dining room was this color when we moved into this house almost 12 years ago. Over the years, especially in the Winter, it really feels dark. I plan to lighten up the room quite a bit.
WALLS
INSPIRATION
Here are a few inspiration shots (from IKSEL DECORATIVE ARTS & de GOURNAY along with a few palmy rooms found on DAILY DREAM DECOR)
You see where I’m going with this, right?
LIGHTING
The BRASS CHANDELIER below was purchased for a steal at the REBUILDING CENTER in Portland and was supposed to be a temporary fix when we first bought this house. When you have twins, well, things really get put on hold. They are about to turn 11 now, so it really is time to start whipping this home into shape.
CURTAINS
The RIBBON CURTAINS were prototypes for possible curtain offerings via STUDIO TULLIA, my online store. The window seat and the bay windows have posed some challenges but really I have never been happy with the way they turned out so they are outta there.
FURNISHINGS
The dining table and chairs could use some TLC. They are 1950’s era Baker I believe. We picked the set up at an estate sale in San Francisco that came with us up to Oregon. I would love a new set but I don’t think the husband is going to go for it, so my challenge is to update/spruce up what we’ve got.
BUILT IN
I enjoy this built-in, but would like a nice contrast color and a new arrangement in there.
REUPHOLSTERY
We will REUPHOLSTER the Chairs for sure and hopefully address the wicker damage on some of the chairs.
The Love Seat in the background is also a vintage heirloom that I have reupholstered in back and white ticking. It will most likely need a SLIPCOVER.
HARDWARE/SHADES
I am going to to replace the CURTAINS, make them full length and change the HARDWARE. I am thinking SHADES on the windows may be the way to go.
UTILITIES/RETURN
And this HEAT RETURN is in bad shape, so that will also need to be replaced.
So that’s it in a nutshell.
Here are the links to the last two ORC final reveals:
ORC FALL2017 GUEST ROOM
ORC FALL 2016 HALLWAY/STAIRS
ORC SPRING 2016 CHARLOTTE’ S ROOM (it did not transfer to my new blog apparently…) I’ll have to update soon.
Thanks for following along and I will be back next week to share more.
