And my first stop on Friday was at the Dick Blick store, and I just want to say--that shopping there is not all that it's cracked up to be. Now before you start screaming at me, let me explain. Okay, the first reason is because both of these stores that I've been to (Columbus and NYC) were huge, and very overwhelming. There's so much to take in, that it's almost too much--this is a good thing (if you have an unlimited amount of money), but it can also be a bad thing (if you don't). Another reason is --they don't have everything that's in their catalog--I know, that's really not a big deal. But the main reason is--their prices on all of their products are alot higher than their online prices--I figured even with the shipping, I save more when I shop online. I'm not talking a dollar more--I'm talking anywhere from $3 to $7.00 more! But on the up side--you can see the actual colors of all the paints (and they pretty much have all of the color selections there too) and all of the pens and markers (you can test them too). And I know when I go back to Columbus next year or where ever there is a Dick Blick store , that will be the first place I go to--I still love going there.
Okay, now on to IKEA. I was able to find some shelving units there that didn't cost me an arm and a leg, and I've been very motivated today to get it put together with the help of my very patient husband. This is what I wanted to replace--an old set of shelves from my son that he was going to throw out--it was on it's last legs.
So this is the before shot--
--and here's the after--
I now have 2 sets of shelves that hold so much more! I also found these baskets at IKEA too--they're great for organizing. I now have all of my paints next to my work table, and also my scrapbook paper pads were able to fit in there. That's my next goal--to find a better storage system for all of my many many more loose scrapbook and collage papers (other side of the room). And even though this takes up basically the whole wall, the room seems bigger to me now. I'm happy!!
Now the giveaway--Joji Todd is having her first giveaway on her blog. You will be so happy to see what she's giving away. Her work is exceptional. I found her blog a few months ago, and I love her beautiful art. So just go here to sign up.
And lastly, I'm still working on my little project. Here's another peak--
This is one of my newer stamps. I'm pretty sure it's a Lynne Perella stamp--but correct me if I'm wrong. I found it on my recent trip to New York at The Ink Pad--check out their website--you WILL be jealous! I was told about this cool little rubber stamp store plus from Marlynn. So if you're ever in New York City, make sure you go--you won't be disappointed. Thanks Marlynn!!
