Culinary Mandala

This was inspired after visiting the Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles and seeing Jennifer Angus' creative displays of exotic insects. Just stamps and tombow markers in 15 minutes.

Paper Mosaics

I made this beautiful tray, covered with marbled and handmade papers and sealed with decoupage and polycrylic, using the technique from"Perefect Paper Mosaics" by Susan Seymour. It truly looks like ceramic tile, and was easy to make, though it took some time. An inexpensive project, the tray was bought from the thrift store ($3) and the paper I had in my collection. I only bought black poster board, black acrylic paint and polycrylic. I love easy, inexpensive projects! The book is fantastic.

Look at Susan's beautiful website. There is also an article on her research regarding empowerment of women in India and the use of "Life History Collage": http://www.papermosaic.net/

Examiner.com

I am so pleased to announce that I am writing articles for Examiner.com as the "Pasadena Arts and Crafts Examiner."

Examiner.com writers contribute articles in one of 25 areas of specialty. They are independent contractors who recieve "competitive pay based on page views, reader subscriptions, session length and advertisement interest".

It was initially an exercise in confidence. I felt good that I had successfully written and sent an article as part of the application process. Was I surpised to receive an acceptance email! My dream had come true: making money at what I love. It's a small step in the right direction.

See my articles at the link below. My goal is one article a week. You will find a subscribe button at the top or bottom of the article. Click on it, give your info, and anytime I publish, the article will go straight to your inbox.

http://www.examiner.com/hobbies-in-los-angeles