Diana Schoenbrun

Yeti time

2011-12-09T10:02:00.000-08:00

It's Yeti time...

Last night I did a fun Make-it Thursday event at the The American Folk Art Museum in Manhattan. It was a great evening filled with Yeti making. Check out the upcoming craft events on Thursday nights or visit the museum's beautiful collection.

Tonight is the opening of the Pictoplasma Missing Link art show. There is over 500 artists' work of Yetis, Abominable Snowman, and other creatures in the gallery, La Gaîté lyrique in Paris, France. I wish I could make it. There is lots of other character design lectures and events to check out. I can't believe I was able to spot my yeti in the installation.

Brooklyn Design Lab Display

2011-11-20T08:17:00.001-08:00

The Brooklyn Design Lab is a great studio that teaches children's art classes in Park Slope. A variety of classes for all ages are offered such as robots and aliens, textile design, toy design, lego architecture, and many more.Amy who runs Brooklyn Design lab invited me to dipslay some of my plush characters. Check out "Animals and Monsters" in the window from November 20-December 2.

Maker Faire recap

2011-09-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

This post is a bit late. Its been a week since my first Maker Faire NY. I had such a great time making zombies from my craft book, Beasties. It was none stop crafting for two days. Luckily I had the three crafty assistants to help me out. I met some sweet kids, parents, and awesome zombie loving crafters. See you next year at Maker Faire!

Rollingstone Music Video premiere

2011-09-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Andy Cahill and I worked together on a music video for local Brooklyn musician, Kevin Devine. His new album, Between the Concrete & Clouds was released September 13th on Razor an Tie. Andy and I were excited to direct, animate, and create puppets for Kevin's debut song, Off-Screen. Watch it on Rollingstone Videos or You Tube.

Maker Faire NYC is in less than 2 weeks

2011-09-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

The countdown begins! I will be hosting a craft booth at Maker Faire NYC on Saturday Sepetember 17th and Sunday the 18th. Stop by to chat and make your very own soft stitched zombie. Remember Halloween is just around the corner.

Simple Better

2011-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Check out my friend Carly's blog for posts about design, art, fashion, DIY, and interviews. She invited me to do a guest DIY post. My first DIY project shows you how to frame art.I had this lovely armadillo art from Italy that my friend gave me and I finally found the perfect frame for it.

Lucian Freud

2011-07-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

Last week Britsh artist Lucian Freud passed away. I remember seeing a retrospective of his work while traveling in Italy 6 years ago. Seeing his work in person left an impression in my memory. His large paintings are so rich, raw, and surreal. He studied the human form and painted the figure with intense detail. Here are two postcards I bought at the exhibit. He is known for his figure paintings but here are spme animal portraits that represent his beautiful brushstrokes.

Parents Magazine

2011-07-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

Puppet Play in the August issue of Parents Magazine.

July Pie

2011-07-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

I baked my first blueberry pie. I decided to document it in my sketchbook.

San Francisco visit - The Reading Bug

2011-06-19T06:47:00.000-07:00

My last stop in San Francisco area was just a few train stops south in the town of San Carlos. The Reading Bug is not just a book store for children but also a store where you can attend author readings and craft events. I was excited to greet the bouncing kids who screamed,"Puppets." Parents and children worked together to make there own puppet. If you stop by say hello to Lauren, one of the store owners.

San Francisco visit - MOCFA Craft Bar

2011-06-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

On June 2nd I hosted a craft bar at the Museum of Folk and Craft Art in San Francisco sponsored by Etsy. The project I presented was a mini-Cyclops from my Beasties book. I had so much fun chatting and meeting new people. The museum was packed. I was so impressed with the variety of Cyclops being sewn.

Crafter Elisa Tam of Happy Moon Moon blog took her Cyclops on a tour of San Francisco. Check out her blog for more photos the adventure.

Stop by the museum every first Thursday of the month for a craft Bar and check out the new exhibit on Korean Textiles.

San Francisco visit - Street art

2011-06-11T09:08:00.000-07:00

While walking around the Mission area I came upon some beautiful murals, painted doorways, and sidewalk stencils.

San Francisco visit - SFO airport

2011-06-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon a great recycled folk art exhibit at SFO on my recent trip to San Francisco. It's always nice to have time to view art even when at the airport. Here are a few shots from the show.I realized how we have now replaced tin, aluminum, and other metals with plastic. The exhibit included art from Mexico, Africa,India and the US. Stay tuned for more about my San Fran visit.

Blog Tour at Schmancy and Craft Gossip

2011-05-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

Check out the awesome blog of Schmancy. They have a wide array of soft sculptures and plush chracarters by artists. I did an answer and question session with them for Puppet Play.

And check out Craft Gossip for a book giveaway.

Beastie Animation in progress

2011-05-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Andy Cahill animating.

Day 15-18 Blog Tour

2011-05-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

I got a little behind on the blog tour.Here's a catch up.

Friday
Visit my guest post at the Happy Honeybee.

Thursday is Time to Play!
Yay another giveaway at Arrow Cabinets.

Wednesday
Interview and giveaway at Pink and Green Mama.

Tuesday
Stop by Progressive Pioneer for a review see how Sam's elephant puppet came out.

Blog Tour Day 13 and 14

2011-05-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Cuteverything posted an interview with me. Learn why I decided to make crafts out of recycled materials.

Check out Craft Test Dummies for a review and Jenny's awesome fish puppet and monkey puppet. There is also a book to giveaway.

Powerhouse Mother's Day Craft recap

2011-05-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day I spent the day crafting with some children and their moms and dads at Powerhouse Arena in Dumbo, Brooklyn. I was impressed with the variety of puppets. Check out the monkey, rock star, sassy critter, and the other lovely and kooky puppets that were created.

Blog Tour Day 11 and 12

2011-05-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

Prudent Baby has a book giveaway and so does Canadian Living.

Day 10 Zakka Life

2011-05-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Stop by Zakka Life for a craft book giveaway and review.

Day 9 Blog Fiskateers

2011-05-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

Stop by the Fiskateers blog and see some puppets made by readers and learn more about the book Puppet Play.

Day 6, 7, 8 Blog Tour

2011-05-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend. Here a catch up on the Blog Tour

Day 6 This Mama Makes Stuff Check out this awesome theater that Carrie and her children made and filled with puppets.

Day 7 Roots and Wing Co. Here is an interview with me and another chance to win a free copy of Puppet Play.

Day 8 Whip Up
Learn more about my process into making the book.

Day 5 Blog Tour with Little Birdie Secrets

2011-05-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

Stop by Little Birdie Secrets by May 10th and enter to win a book.

Day 4 Blog Tour with Sew Mama Sew

2011-05-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Sew Mama Sew post and Book Giveaway for Puppet Play.

Day 3 Blog tour with Craft Sanity

2011-05-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Ackererman-Haywood interviewed me for Puppet Play. Check out her awesome blog

Craft Sanity.

Day 2 Blog tour with Oh my! Handmade Goodness

2011-05-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

For the second day of my blog tour stop by Oh my! Handmade Goodness. Check out my workspace and sketchbook pages too.

Blog tour kickoff with Luvinthemommyhood

2011-05-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Stop by Luvinthemommyhood to kick off the first day of the blog tour for Puppet Play.

10 years of Anti-Social Music

2011-05-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

This past Friday was the 10 year anniversary of the collective Anti-Social Music at the Chashama art space in NYC. You may have heard about Anti-social Music this past month on NPR.

The show had a variety of pieces from members and ended with an interesting collaboration with the hip-hop group Dälek.

The artist Scrapworm created some beautiful installation art and a film projection for the show.

Anti-Social just released their new album entitled, "The Future of Everything. You can buy a copy now!

Love is in the air.

2011-04-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

Its spring and love is in the air.

I made these miniature Cyclops softies from a simplified version of the project from my Beasties Book. I'll be hosting a Craft Bar at the Museum of Craft and Folk Art in San Francisco on June 2nd 6-8pm. Stop by and learn how make these softies. More info to come!

Street Art

2011-04-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

I just read this interesting article about an exhibit curated at the MOCA museum in Las Angeles. The article brings up some interesting questions on how we perceive graffiti and street art in our culture and what it represents.

Here is some graffiti I noticed while traveling in Italy last month.

Puppet Play blog tour

2011-04-21T06:20:00.000-07:00

Here are the dates to check out the Puppet Play blog posts.
May 2nd
Luvinthemommyhood
May 3rd
Oh My! Handmade
May 4th
Craft Sanity
May 5th
Sew Mama Sew
May 6th
Little Birdie Secrets
May 7th
This Mama Makes Stuff
May 8th
Roots and Wings
May 9th
Whip UP
May 10th
Fiskateers
May 11th
Zakkalife
May 12th
Prudent Baby
May 13th
Make + Do
May 14th
Craft Test Dummies
May 15th
Cute Everything
May 16th
Schmancy
May 17th
Progressive Pioneer
May 18th
Pink and Green Mama
May 19th
Arrow Cabinets
May 20th
The Happy Honeybee
May 21st
Craft Gossip

Easter Crafts

2011-04-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday in preparation for Easter and my book Puppet Play I showed crafty kids how to make their own Bunny puppet.

Here is the list of materials that you can find around the house.
old sock for body
assorted felt for ears
2 buttons for eyes
scrap of felt for pupil or other fabric
1 pom pom for nose
1 cotton ball
3 pipecleaners for whiskers
tissue paper for inside of ear

glue stick
needle
thread
hot glue gun(optional)

Step 1
Gather materials.
Step 2
Fold a pipecleaner in half and twist 3 to four times at one end. Twist top once. Shape pipecleaner into a rabbit ear shape.Make a second ear.
Step 3
Cut felt ear shape so it is at least 1/4" bigger all around the pipecleaner.

Step 4
Cut four ear shapes.
Step 5 and 6
Sew through top twist of the pipecleaner to tack it to the felt.Twisted part of pipecleaner can fall below felt. Tack along the center sides as well.

Step 7
Place other felt shape on top and sew a whip stitch around the ear. Cut tissue smaller than the ear and use a glue stick to adhere on the back of paper and press onto front side of ear.
Step 8
Bend pipecleaner back.
Step 9
Cut third pipecleaner into three sections and twist twice together at the middle to make the whiskers.

Step 10
Sew through center of pipecleaner whiskers to attach to the sock.Sew a few stitches and then sew through the pom pom.
Step 11
Cut small felt eyesbrows and circles for the pupils and eyes.
Step 12
Use either hot glue or sew eyes and eyebrows to the sock. Then position and sew ears to the sock by sewing over pipecleaner and ear felt/fabric.

Step 13
Cut a felt rectangle and cut a v-shape out of it. Glue or sew teeth to sock below the whiskers.
Step 14
Use hot glue to attach cotton ball tail.

Bansky in Italy?

2011-04-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

Art imitates life. Life Imitates art.

Craft Month Interview: Fashion Journalist Sofia Hedstrom

2011-03-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

I met Sofia Hedstrom (AKA Sofia Headstrong) while doing a craft event at Etsy. Right away I noticed her unique fashion sense and sweet personality.

Tell us about yourself?
I'm a correspondent for Swedish and Norweigan TV in addition to being the fashion correspondent for Sweden's biggest newspapers, Svenska Dagbladet, where I also write the daily fashion blog. In a couple of weeks my first book is coming out in Sweden. Very exciting!

What kind of projects are you currently working on?
For the fashion manifesto I collected over 50 recipes from all over the world. After my shopping free year I prefer to work with what I have in my wardrobe rather than buy new clothes. I always wear skirts so I have tons of recipes for used stockings.

Is there something new that you are really excited to work on? Tell us.

The book, Modemanifestet- The new fashion manifesto
Equal parts memoir, manifesto and how-to, this book will chronicle Sofia Hedström’s non-shopping journey through New York, Paris and Milan’s Fashion Weeks and in everyday life. It will also articulate 7 principles or essential rules to become fashion fit. Finally, the book will provide 50 simple and playful “recipes” for reinventing garments. Based on Sofia’s travels from Reykjavik to Brooklyn, the book will show readers how to bury t-shirts in the ground, transform a button down shirt into a pair of pants, and cover stains with embroidery.

An exclusive foreword by world famous designer Vivienne Westwood sets the tone. In Sweden, the nation’s oldest publisher, Norstedts, will publish the book in March 2011.

Where do you find your daily inspiration?
From myself and my own experiences. I think that's the best way to go and I always try to put myself in new situations to gain new experiences. As a fashion journalist it was very interesting not to shop anything for a year, it really forced me to be creative with what I have.

Do you ever get in a fashion rut?
I always dress after a very clear vision that I get each day when I wake up. For me clothes are like a costume and sometimes I dream of Belle de jour or being a flap dancer in shanghai during the 20s.

What is your work space or artist studio like?
It's my home, so I can roll out of bed into my desk. I collect objects in the shape of animals and have porcelin plant pots in the shape of swans, dear lamps, bird pillows...you name it. It's the opposite to minimalistic so it reflects me.
What is your favorite snack that you like to have while creating your art?
Popcorn. When I have a tight deadline I always make popcorn.

Are there any art or craft projects from your childhood that you still remember well?
I started experimenting with my clothes when I was really young. I have strong memories from a tie dye faze when I was 13. Me and my best friends used to get home from school, start a tie dye session and then go into the sauna while the clothes boiled on the stove.
Sofia's website
Email Sofia info@sofiaheadstrong.com

Craft interview with Brassy Apple

2011-03-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

Tell us about yourself?
My name is Megan or "Ms. Apple" as the delivery guy sometimes calls me (ha!) - I am a pattern designer and passionate DIY-er. I love to create items that are easy to wear, display and/or create. I have dabbled in several areas of the ARTS and try to live my days just carving out my own path.

What kind of craft, sewing, or art projects are you currently working on?
My bunchy scarves have been extra popular this Spring season with the recent addition of my Extra Large flower brooches as well. I can't seem to keep them in stock.

Is there something new that you are really excited to work on?
I am finishing up a new pattern booklet for cotton fabric scarves to compliment the other 20 scarf designs that have been released. This pattern booklet will also include 3 different flower brooch designs including the extra large one!

Besides sewing and crafting my newest and most exciting project is my blog. It's a blog where a single photo is shared daily based on a monthly theme. I tiny peek into someone else's life. Their struggles, their joy.....their story.

Where do you find your daily inspiration?
Lately it has been color and simplicity. I am so motivated and moved by color. It's been the springboard for designs in all areas - home decor, fashion, crafting.....Simplicity is the other driving factor. I like things that are easily put together without much fuss. I like to take what looks hard or complicated and show people how to create the same look quickly, easily and inexpensively.

What is your work-space or artist studio like?
Full. Like most people I like to surround myself with things that I love and make me happy. I have an inspiration board full of pictures and quotes, a table that is full of projects in the works, a sewing area and of course my office desk. It's my favorite piece in the room. I purchased it second hand and redid it "Brassy" style with a high gloss black paint and decoupaged the drawer fronts with fabric.

What is your favorite snack that you like to have while making and creating your art?
Hot Tamales! When I am really in a creative "groove" or "rut" I like to munch on these.

Are there any art or craft projects from your childhood that you still remember well?
I remember I loved paper dolls. I loved creating my own clothes for them. I would sketch out the pieces, add the details, color and cut them out making sure to add the tabs so they would stay on.

My blog is always showcasing my latest projects and tutorials.
My shop has all my patterns, ready made items and ePatterns too.
My daily happenings get tweeted.
NEW page Facebook page

Jewelry Artist, Robin Humphrey

2011-03-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

RobinCharlotte by Robin Humphrey

Tell us about yourself?
My name is Robin Humphrey, crafting under the name of RobinCharlotte. I graduated from RISD with a major in apparel design and have been working in different aspects of the fashion industry since. I currently design a line of jewelry and related products that feature real recycled fish and other found objects inside of resin.

What kind of craft or sewing projects are you currently working on?
I probably always have at least 20 started projects in my studio. I make the rounds letting each one kind of dictate when it is ready to be worked on or not. Recently I have been on a kick of incorporating photography with stitching, precious gems & feathers.

Is there something new that you are really excited to work on?
I just got the most amazing collection of bird skulls that came from an elder teacher who preserved and identified each one in a tattered old journal! I have been looking for bird skulls for a long time and they couldn't have come to me in a more perfect way. I am fascinated with obsessive people and their collections. This was her life’s work, her passion, it tells a tale of her personal history. It’s just so meticulous. So, I am going to be taking her collection of skulls into the metal studio and will cast them in order in precious metals. Then they can assert themselves as the treasures they truly are.

Where do you find your daily inspiration?
I am very visual, so everything that I see through out the day inspires me. I try and read lots of blogs, always check the side walks for lost treasures and just really take the time to study everything around me. I also enjoy waking up early on the weekends and going to estate sales. I love browsing through a lifetime of treasures in beautiful old homes.

Is there any recent craft adictions you have?
Parrot feathers – its turned into a full-blown addiction in less than a few months and there are some amazing (and really expensive ones out there). I could potentially go broke if I don't start to show a little restraint!

Do you ever get in a craft rut? I do. If I find myself stuck in an uncreative environment or energy-sucking situation for too long I end up feeling creatively depleted. Which can become a rut that infiltrates all aspects of my life. So I am now much more conscious about not staying in those situations when I recognize it since being uninspired and being unhappy are one in the same for me.

What is your workspace or artist studio like? I actually just gave my studio an overhaul. I have large bins I keep all my supplies and projects in on shelves on the wall. I recently took on the task of painting every bin with chalkboard paint and now on the front I can update the revolving door of projects. I can get messy very quick, I start whipping things out of here and there, so my new bin system keeps me more organized, or maybe just makes me appear somewhat organized. I love being surrounded by stuff I am inspired by too, so I have a vintage taxidermy butterfly collection, my grandmother’s antique spoon collection in a case my grandfather built her & lots of things in jars. I am always picking things up off the ground wherever I go and then sorting them into jars.

Are there any art or craft projects from your childhood that you still remember well?
I loved all craft projects – I would get so excited and work on them obsessively. One day in 4th grade we made piggy banks in art class and for the rest of that year I was making piggy banks at home everyday. I even made a pigpen from popsicle sticks to corral them in. The next year in 5th grade I remember sewing a huge candy bar for a school project from my old Girl Scout brownie uniform because that was the only thing brown I could find in the house. That was the first time I realized creating went beyond what was sold Michaels. The idea that I could repurpose something I already owned blew my little mind – there was no turning back from that point on!

Follow Robin
Etsy
Robin's website
Facebook
Blog
Flickr

Spacecraft Brooklyn

2011-03-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

I was busy making Beasties this Saturday afternoon at Spacecraft Brooklyn. The unique craft-making and supply boutique is located on the South side of Williamsburg. They offer different craft classes every week for adults and children.

I showed everyone how to make a Tomte (swedish gnome). We had such a variety of fabric to choose from it was hard to decide what to use. Some favorite fabrics of the day were a yellow faux fur and an emerald green velvet. There was even a super Tomte with a cape.

Check out the Spacecraft calendar for more crafty classes. On April 16th I'll be teaching a Easter themed class. We'll be making Easter rabbit puppets and I'll be doing a book signing for Puppet Play. Stay tuned for a Dragon Beastie class in the future too!

NYC Wishing Well

2011-03-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Living in NYC can often test your patience. I was waiting for the G train in Brooklyn and began to pace back and forth. While pacing I often look down in the tracks and see unpleasant garbage, ROUS(rodents of unusual size), and a river of muck. Today I heard the sound of "water-drops" falling into a puddle on the tracks. However, this puddle was actually filled with a glimmer of coins and became an impromptu wishing well by subway riders. There seemed to be almost 50 pennies tossed into the tracks. I am not suggesting that anyone should throw anything in the tracks but I began to ponder the traditional "wishing well" and the need for New Yorkers to make one here. I also wondered what people were wishing for. Did I throw a penny? While contemplating this the train finally came.

Fire breathing Dragon

2011-03-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

This awesome Beastie was made by Jenny Barnett Rohrs. I'm very impressed with her Dragon interpretation from the book. I love the colors. For more things crafty, check out her blog Craft Test Dummies. There are lots of great craft projects to read and product reviews for any crafting enthusiast.

Vintage Button

2011-03-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

I bought this unique vintage button recently in Carroll Gardens. I'm not sure what the material is. Maybe plastic with a metal filagree. I love the detail work. I'm thinking of sewing it to a scarf or using it in a hairpiece.

March is Craft Month: Fiber and Wood

2011-03-03T19:17:00.000-08:00

March is craft month. I'm going to try to do as many craft posts as possible.

Fiber
I recently went to the Renwick Gallery in Washington DC. The textile called, "The Silk Rainforest", caught my eye. This was created with silk, linen, and cotton by Sheila Hicks. The sea of blue, greens, and golden colors draws you right in. I love the rich saturated color this artist uses in all her work.

Wood
Silas Knopf created this exquisite wood cabinet with macassar ebony, walnut, and maple. Bad Hare Day, is an elegant furniture piece with an element of fun. The design of the animals is full of such movement. The rabbit and foxes look strinking against the wood and feels just like a forrest scene.

Giveaway with Crafty

2011-02-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

CraftyCraftytv is giving away four Beasties books. Enter to win by March 8th. Start off craft month with a new craft book.

Valentine's Day BookCourt Recap

2011-02-14T22:30:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a busy day at BookCourt Bookstore. There were lots of excited crafters for Valentine's Day. Some kids were learning to sew for their very first time. I also made coloring pages of the Tomte for those who were too young to sew. Click here to download.

Two reporters from the NY Daily News were in the store and asked me about street fashion. They were even kind enough to point out the unique stripped dress my witch character, Baba Yaga has in the Beasties book.

Valentine’s Day Softie

2011-02-13T06:43:00.000-08:00

For Valentine’s Day give a kiss! Make a softie smooch that you can give as a gift. This plush kiss can be made in just a few steps and is very quick. Pick a fabric such as satin, cotton, felt, or velvet.

Click here for the pattern you can print out.

Materials:
fabric
needle and thread ( two colors, one contrasting color for the inside lip line)
fiberfill
scissors
pins

Instructions
1. Print out pattern at 100% and cut out. Seam allowance is included. Trace pattern onto the wrong side of fabric twice. Trace inner lip line on only one kiss shape. Cut out both kiss shapes.
2. Machine sew or hand sew a contrasting color thread along dashed line on only one kiss shape.
3. Pin kiss shapes together, right side facing in and sew together. Machine or hand sew, leaving about 2 inches unsewn.
4. Turn fabric right side out and stuff with fiberfill. Sew opening closed.

Associated Content

2011-02-10T18:52:00.000-08:00

Check out this Besties review at Associated Content.

Stitch London Giveaway

2011-02-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

Win a copy of Beasties at Stitch London. You have until February 16th.

Cyclops

2011-02-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you take on the persona of your character designs?
This winter is making me grouchy.

Flying Wolf

2011-02-02T21:08:00.000-08:00

Here is a Beastie sent by a reader named Emily who is almost 9 years-old. She has already started to design her own Beasties. Emily wrote this about her creation:

His name is FW and it stands for Flying Wolf. He is great at hovering and will fly away from a fight if attacked. He has the power of invisibility. He sticks his tongue out when he's happy, sad, angry, or excited. He likes to stick his tongue out. He doesn't mean to be offensive.

February Giveaway

2011-02-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

The tote bag winner is Twizzie. Everyone who particpated email me your address and I'll send a gift.

February Giveaway

2011-01-31T21:41:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a giveaway. Its' the first of the month and it's time to send out a Beastie tote bag filled with Beastie buttons, a magnet, postcard, and a Tomte pre-cut fabric kit. I'll throw in some other notions and fabric too! The tote is perfect for carrying your sewing supplies, groceries, laundry, or lunch. Tell me about your favorite craft project you've done recently or what you are working on and I'll pick one randomly. I'll post the winner on Wednesday, February 3rd. Good luck!

Crafting Preparation

2011-01-30T15:09:00.000-08:00

When you do a book event you have limited time for your crafters to work so you have to literally cut out a few steps. Tomtes wear their heart on their sleeve.

Here's the info:
Make a Beastie for your Sweetie! Come stop by BookCourt for Valentine's Day Crafts on February 13th. Free craft kits and a tutorial to make your own Beastie gnome from the craft book, Beasties: How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night This event is for children and adults. There is some basic sewing so children can work with adults to make the project.

Location: Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
Time: 11am -early afternoon
Place:BookCourt Bookstore 163 COURT ST, BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

Fairy, Nessie, and a Tomte

2011-01-29T13:36:00.000-08:00

Susan Braun sent me this lovely photo of the softies she made from the Beasties craft book. I love that they are all friends. Nice job Susan!

Valentine's Day

2011-01-22T14:31:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is approaching. I made these softies kisses from satin fabric. I'll be posting the project soon. Stay tuned!

Art Show in Brooklyn

2011-01-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

The CDSC (Center for Child Development Support Corporation) is hosting an art show fundraiser. Half the proceeds from art purchased goes toward the community center.

Stop by to check out all the artists work. ( I have some work in the show.)
They'll be music on Friday night by "Jah C and the Antidote".

Friday January 21st
6:30-10pm
Sat and Sunday January 22-23
10 am -5pm

more info

Also feel free to bring any extra art supplies to donate to the center.

Weekend at Word

2011-01-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I hosted a Beasties event at Word Bookstore in Brooklyn. I met some new crafters and had fun sewing Tomtes, or swedish gnomes that everyone took home with them. I also brought along my new Fish-Head Alien cut-out. I just could not resist a silly photo of myself. Stay tuned for more monthy craft events at Word Bookstore. If you missed the event stop by to pick up a book copy in Brooklyn and support your local book stores.

Word Bookstore

2011-01-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

Get Crafty! Today I will be showing crafters how to make Beasties at Word Bookstore in Greenpoint Brooklyn. Stop by to make mythic and imaginary creatures from around the world from felt. All ages welcome; everyone will go home with a beastie made during the event.

Sunday, January 9 · 1:30pm - 4:30pm

WORD

126 Franklin St

Brooklyn, NY

Nintendo Art Academy Ny Daily News

2011-01-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

Here is an article in the NY Daily News that featured my sketches using Nintendo's Art Academy.
The video is also on you tube.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-29T22:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays! This holiday card was designed for the company Healthination. The idea was to create an image that promotes health and family. Penguins are the perfect cold weather animal to anthropomorphize in an illustration.

New Illustrations

2010-12-06T18:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some quick illustrations I made on my subway commute using the Nintendo DS Art Academy game. The first illustration is a Chonchon character from my Beastie book. Also, read more about Nintendo and people's desire to be creative.

Nintendo Art Academy video at the Whitney

2010-12-05T15:11:00.000-08:00

Here is the video that I filmed for Nintendo's Art Academy at the Whitney Museum.

Handmade News and Cute Everything

2010-11-30T19:06:00.000-08:00

Check out my interview on Handmade News Handmade News. Try this fun project to make for the holidays at Cute Everything

Haiku Horse

2010-11-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

My friend Richarda started a cookie business that has grown quickly in the past few years called Haiku's Luscious Cookies. Studio Haiku is based out of CT and the cookies are sold in CT, MA, RI. I've been lucky enough to try the scrumptious cookies. Look for them soon in New York.

Richarda is not only a talented baker, artist, and animal lover, but she is devoted to her horses. Why Haiku? Read more on the website.

I had fun designing this stuffed horse for Studio Haiku.

Interview with Eva Montanari

2010-11-13T15:25:00.000-08:00

Read this interesting interview about Eva Montanari, an Italian illustrator and author. She is not only a wonderful person but an accomplished illustrator, author, sculptor, and teacher. Visit her website for more art and books.

Baba Yaga Beastie Tote

2010-11-13T15:23:00.001-08:00

Beasties at Comic Con

2010-11-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

Penguin Books was at Comic Con in October. Watch a fun video that includes my lovely editor talking about Beasties crafts at Comic Con. Can you spot the Yeti?

Tomte

2010-11-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

Check out this lovely Tomte made by Blair of WiseCraft.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday Halloween morning I woke up at 8:30 am, made fresh coffee, ate M&Ms for breakfast(which I do not recommend) and finished making Beasties sewing kits. By 11 am I arrived at BookCourt in Cobble Hill ready to sew Fairies and Zombies.

Parents and children worked together to make their own unique interpretations of Beasties. I was excited to see some very young crafters learn how to sew.

Zombie experience at Etsy Craft Night

2010-11-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

I love how the author, Cambrey Thomas wrote about her crafting experience at Etsy labs for the Brooklyn Ink.

Fiskateers and Beasties Video Chat

2010-10-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

Thursday evening I did a video chat for Fiskateers. There were interesting questions and some great prizes that I gave away. If you missed it you can watch it here. Stay tune for more Beasties giveaways.

Don't forget about Halloween! There will be a Beasties BookCourt event tomorrow in Brooklyn.

BookCourt
163 Court St
Cobble Hill
Brooklyn, NY

11 am-12:30 pm
There will be free Beastie craft kits for for all ages and a book signing.

Nintendo Art Academy

2010-10-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was asked to try the new software called Art Academy for the Nintendo DS family of systems. As an artist I always carry around a small sketchbook with me at all times. I was excited to see the similar and portable size the Nintendo DSi XL was to my own sketchbook and mini-watercolor set. The fact that Art Academy combined drawing and painting into the portable Nintendo DSi XL solved my problems of lugging around all my supplies. I travel everyday by subway and train so the Nintendo DSi XL is perfect and portable for anyone to take with them on the go. For example, this past weekend a kid sitting next to me on the subway asked me about what I was using on my Nintendo DSi XL to draw so I showed him Art Academy before I got off at my next stop.

There are two sections to Art Academy which are the lessons and the free paint mode. I was eager to start drawing and painting and jumped right into the free paint mode immediately. The stylus acts as both your pencil and brush. There are different types of pencils, two erasers, and an upright position and sideways pencil position. I was pleased to see my favorite pencil HB was there to use! The effects were similar a real pencil. After drawing I could switch to the free paint mode and pick from a variety of paintbrush sizes and mix the paints on a palette. This was great because I could achieve many different effects such as a more flat look, impressionistic, watercolor, pastel look, and more.

Another feature included is the camera tool. The Nintendo DSi XL has two screens so you can take a photo and use it as a reference while you create your art. I find this helpful because If I start a drawing or painting and don’t always have time to finish it so I can have the photo there for later reference. For example I took some photographs the other day of antique Mexican masks that were in a restaurant that inspired me. I took my photos and worked on my drawing later using Art Academy.

I was impressed with how easy it was to understand the software and be able to figure out the free paint mode on my own. Art Academy makes drawing and painting more accessible to someone who has none or little experience. Or someone who has an art background can easily draw and paint the same as before. The art lessons provide valuable insight and tips for creating art if you have never taken formal art classes.

Nintendo hosted an event at the Whitney Museum of American Art last week so people could try out Art Academy early. I chatted with many non-artists as well as experienced artists who were trying out Art Academy for the first time. There was intense concentration in the Gallery that evening while people focused on creating their very own artwork on the Nintendo DSi XL. I left feeling excited that Art Academy had gotten more people interested in drawing and painting and find their creative side.

Stay tuned for more about Art Academy.

Etsy Night Craft Lab

2010-10-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

This past week I hosted Monday Craft night at the Etsy labs in Dumbo (Brooklyn, NY). In the spirit of Halloween I chose the zombie project from my craft book, Beasties: How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night.

Etsy Craft night is made open to the public and provides all the sewing materials and sewing supplies for free. Julie and Laura from Etsy were kind enough to assist. I brought along instructions and pattern sheets. One lucky winner in the virtual labs received a free copy of the Beasties book for answering my Zombie trivia question. The zombie project is a simple and can be done with basic hand sewing. However, Etsy provides sewing machines if you prefer to do some machine sewing.

I was excited to meet and talk with so many enthusiastic crafters who weren’t afraid to dive right in and make their own personalized zombies. There were some crazy colored zombies! Some had more blood and gore, while others were missing appendages. I really enjoy the friendly crafting environment at Etsy and chatting with people to see what kind of crafts they like to make. Thanks also to fellow crafter, David who made a exquisite Halloween sign for Monday night.

Check out the article in the NYU newspaper, Washington Square News from the Monday night Etsy Craft Labs.

More Beasties Reviews

2010-10-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

Check out Etsy How-Tuesday and learn how to make a zombie. Patterns and instructions included.

There have been some more great Beasties Reviews. Check them out!

Schmancy Gallery Blog

Akron Beacon Journal

Crushable.com

The Edge

Yarn Bar and Conflux Festival

2010-10-10T17:50:00.000-07:00

I stopped by La Casita with my friend Laura, puppet builder and knitter extraordinaire to do some chatting and crafting. This yarn bar in Carroll Gardens offers a variety of yarn to purchase as well as knitting classes to take. You can snack and sip a latte or glass of wine while you knit.

This weekend was NYU's 7th annual Conflux festival which features artists and technology events in New York City. Another fellow puppet builder Matthew Brennan did a music performance using cassette tape loops and a mixing board on the sidewalk. He even played his handmade guitar (made from a gas stove and guitar strings) that utilized his found sound recordings. The unique guitar was played with tape recordings, hitting strings, and blowing air into a tube to create an interesting effect that was picked up by a microphone. Matt's extended the idea of "found" sounds and musical collage with instruments created from found objects. I especially liked the use of continuous tape loops that played sounds, music, and spoken diary entries by unknown people. Listening to music on a cassette tape is a thing of the past but I was excited to receive one of Matt's tapes entitled, Decrepit Jaw, which I can pop into my Sony Boom Box.

Beasties Guest Posts

2010-10-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

I recently spoke with Jennifer Forker about Beasties for the Associated Press

I've been doing some guest blog posts that you can read as well enter for some free giveaways.

Mommy's Memorandum

Wise Craft

Here is another write up about Beasties
Design Bottled

Autumn Wedding art

2010-08-22T17:48:00.001-07:00

Summer is not quite over but I am starting to think about fall that is just around the corner. I am very excited about my friends Vanessa and Malcolm who are getting married in late September. They both love being outdoors, gardening, and hiking by the lake with their dog. Its easy to see why their wedding theme is nature influenced. They asked me to make a piece of art for their wedding. Vanessa and Malcolm chose a tree for the imagery which symbolizes important aspects of marriage such as growth, change, strength, and balance.

Rather than have a sign in book the guests will be signing a cut out leaf that will be attached to a tree. I began with some sketches. Then I did a few style and color samples. I am interested to see what direction the final artwork will take.The autumn season offers beautiful colors and textures for inspiration.

Penguin Community: The Author's Desk

2010-08-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Read About the Adaro Beastie on Penguin Community Author's Desk.

Perigee Blog

2010-08-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

What was the inspiration for Beasties:How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night?
Read more here

Book party recap

2010-08-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

August 5th, 2010
Thursday night was an exciting evening at Powerhouse Arena in Brooklyn. The bookstore has a large open space with a gallery and many art and design books, novels and children’s books. I was pleased that Powerhouse hosted the book party for my craft book, “Beasties: How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night.” The book was published by Perigee, an imprint of Penguin(USA).

The musical sounds of the band, The Debutante Hour kicked off the party with a few songs about Zombies who have an “insatiable appetite for brains and guts.” Every time I listen I can’t stop smiling and laughing. There is always something new I discover about the song lyrics. Maria and Susan played away wearing some cheeky vintage swimsuits and floral swim caps. Check out their music at http://www.thedebutantehour.com

Speaking at the book party allowed me talk about my creative process and how I came to write the book. The book has wonderful photos taken by photographer Tory Williams. Those who attended could see the 3-D Beasties in person that I brought along. Seeing the actual tactile version is important! I also gave a quick demo on how to make a Zombie. The party also had a raffle that gave away three Fish-Head Alien tote bags. They were filled with cotton fabrics, buttons, needles, and beads to help you get started on Beastie making. There were also plenty of free Beastie buttons to take home and wear.

Book release for Beasties: How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night

2010-08-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to announce that Beasties: How to Make 22 Mischievous Monsters That Go Bump in the Night will be available for purchase August 3rd. The book party is also this week.

Book Release Party
Time: Thursday August 5, 7-9 pm
Place: Powerhouse Arena Located in Dumbo
37 Main Street Brooklyn, NY 11201

Reading, presentation and book signing
Drinks and snacks will be served.

Additional information
http://www.powerhousearena.com/newsletters/100805/

http://newyork.timeout.com/events/books/352992/diana-schoenbrun

*Special musical performance by Maria Sonevytsky and Susan Hwang from The Debutante Hour.

I wrote the book and designed the characters. My friend Tory Williams did all the exquisite photography. She has an excellent eye. You can check out her website as well.
http://www.torysphotography.com

Wear your woolies.

2009-01-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

Wear your woolies and keep warm.
Merino, shetland, corriedal, border leicester, lincoln, romney,
mohair, angora, cashmere, alpaca, llama, camel...

Plush Mouse

2008-11-23T20:43:00.000-08:00

I had two book ideas for my stuffed animals.One photo is a mouse in a room with
many "M" letter objects. The other photo shows a mouse with a "M" letter balloon.

My friend Tory took these. She takes stunning photos!
http://www.torywilliams.com

Sketch time!

2008-10-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

I enjoy the overall creative process in illustration.Once I decide on a concept I begin to do thumbnail sketches that look almost like scribbles. Within these scribbles I find just the right gesture and composition.Then I draw the image with more definition but slightly larger.Once again I enlarge my thumbnail drawing to a final and accurate size, adding more details.

Here are sketches that I am working on for a Little Red Riding Hood series. This version has a new twist! To be animal friendly I decided NO WOLVES or humans would be harmed in this fairy tale. The wolf sneezes everyone out!