To Dwell In Primitive Thymes

February Updates

2012-01-31T20:56:00.006-05:00

It’s the eve of February and our TDIPT’ers who update on the first are busy as bees getting their pages updated. Here is a sampling of what's in store.....

From Carol Roll Nostalgic Folk Art ~ What Once Was

From Ragpatch Primitives ~ Emily Rose

From Meadowborrk Cabin Primitives ~ Early Look Prim Doll With Strawberries

From The Crackling Crows ~ Love Banner

From Annie Beez Folk Art ~ Elisha

To see these and much much more click *here*.

January 15th Updates

2012-01-15T16:55:00.001-05:00

Wow! Where did Christmas go? Its already mid January and our Artist who update for the 15th have already done so. If you have not checked out their pages yet here is a sample of what is in store for you.

From Nancy of Moonpie Primitives ~Flower Bag~

From our newest member Mona of Old Crow Primitves ~ Lil Elephant.

From Jan AKA Big Brown Dog Primtives ~ Doll Dresses Quilt

To see these and many more fantastic offerings you can click right *here* .

Happy New Year! TDIPT Mercantile updates tonight!

2011-12-31T09:21:00.006-05:00

As we bid farewell to 2011 we would like to thank our friends and customers for a wonderful year.

We look forward to your visits, and we wish you a safe, peaceful, and prosperous 2012!

We hope you'll start the New Year out on the right foot by visiting the Mercantile. We'll be updating tonight between 9 and 10 PM EST.

From our family to yours......

Happy New Year!!!

Christmas at Winding Vine

2011-12-23T22:14:00.010-05:00

Here are just a few peeks at some of the Christmas decorations at my home on Winding Vine.

My newest collection - antique pyrography boxes with poinsettias or holly.

I may just keep them out all winter long...

I found this poinsettia box for $1 as the lid was broken off. But with greens, lights, antique sleigh bells and ornaments, I don't think anyone will notice.

I love the combination of rustic primitives and aged mercury glass.
The old gift box from Marshall Field's brings back wonderful memories of shopping trips with my grandparents. I have a little collection of antique bottle brush trees with red bases - the teeny tiniest one is my newest.

Not all of my decorations are primitive. Some traditions, just can't end...

I've been collecting nutcrackers since the year I was married. My youngest son put them out for me this year.

Another favorite collection is miniature nativity sets. Prompted by the little plastic sets that my sister and I would receive in Sunday School. These are from all over the world from Germany, Poland, Israel to Peru, Mexico and Vietnam.

A special addition to my decorations this year - my family's nativity set from when I was growing up. My mother passed it on to me and it means so much! It was purchased at "Jupiter" at discount store for my childhood. My mom didn't drive so we would walk there and home. I always thought this set was the most beautiful in the world. I remember one year asking my mother if I could display it in my bedroom, where I could see it as I feel asleep and being so excited when she said yes!

Wishing the hope and awe of the Christmas Season for you and your family!

Blessings, Patti Gagliardi

Winding Vine Designs

2011-12-19T07:33:00.005-05:00

My Holiday decorating was quite sparse this season, but here are just a couple of pics of some of the Christmas treasures I chose to get out this year.

My wonderful angel from my TDIPT sister Audrey hangs on my corner cupboard, w/ a little Santa below made by Rachael of Fiddly Cat.

A sweet vignette......w/ the fabulous Hidden in the Attic Santa and sheep made by Paula!

I'm so lucky to have these keepsakes, and I have many more that I adore, but just no pics this time around.

Merry Christmas to everyone :)

December 15th Updates

2011-12-14T22:27:00.000-05:00

The Artist who update on the 15th are busy updating their pages right now.

It's not too late to get some last minute Christmas gifts and boy oh boy let me tell you there are some amazing ones available tonight.

Here is a sample of what awaits you.

********

From Threadwork Primitves,Merry Christmas Pillow

From Bay Rays Child, Black Walnut Santa

From Plum Thicket, A Gathering Of Santa's

From 1897 House Primitives, Olde Happy New Year Santa

To see much much more please click *here*.

Wishing you all Happy Holidays & a very Merry Christmas from TDIPT

A LITTLE CHRISTMAS AT OUR HOUSE~bayrayschild

2011-12-10T18:39:00.009-05:00

Handmade Santa on horse(Santa made by Patty of "Dogpatch Primitives")

Living room cupboard Christmas collections(Handmade cabin on bottom shelf made by Jennifer of "The Prairie House Primitives"

Dinner for two

Living room Mantel

"Scrooge"(made by me)

Granddaughter's room

December 1st Updates

2011-12-01T00:01:00.004-05:00

Well it's here,the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas. The TDIPT artist who update on the 1st of each month have many new creations just in time for the Holidays. Take a peak at a few of our offerings for December.

From The Prairie House Primitives~Wood Lantern

From Curds & Whey ~Father Christmas~

From Pear Tree Primitives ~ Parley Brown~

Click *here* to see much much more.

And Merry Christmas!

http://todwellinprimitivethymes.blogspot.com/

Join us on EBAY!!

2011-11-27T14:16:00.004-05:00

The TDIPT gals are having a group launch on ebay beginning tonight and lasting all through the week!
We hope you'll check out all of the fantastic Winter Wonderland creations!

Click here to see all of the eye candy!

And the winners are.........

2011-11-27T11:31:00.005-05:00

TDIPT Mercantile would like to thank everyone who visited us during our

Christmas Open House celebration!

Thank you for being so kind as to comment on our blog, or spread the word via your own blog or Facebook, and a special thank you to those of you who purchased a handmade from one of the very talented TDIPT artisans.

We've drawn names, and below are the lucky 13 winners of the fabulous gifts, so generously donated by our generous members.

taylor62

mrwhitney

mamatkins

wickedfaerie13

hollyharris

magwahkiddy

joanjac

kab64diamond

jbcoffee

gwendabruhn

nitajoja

rbentley1

The artists will contact you, so please be sure to check your spam folders, and reply in a timely manner, so that we do not have to disregard your name and give the prize to someone else.

Congratulations to you all!

Happiest of Holidays from TDIPT!

TDIPT Mercantile Open House & GiveAway

2011-10-31T06:34:00.024-04:00

TDIPT Mercantile cordially invites you to kick off the holidays with us during the month of November!

We're celebrating w/ our annual

♥ Holiday Open House ♥

which means each of our very gifted artists will be creating something special and unique for the season that is sure to make for an exciting month of celebration!

But...that's not all! To show our appreciation to our loyal customers, friends, and visitors we are hosting a fabulous

GiveAway!

Thirteen of our very talented artisans have graciously donated amazing handmades to make this celebration as captivating for you as it is for all of us!

Entering the drawing is as easy as pie!

We have lots of ways for you to qualify to win one of the wonderful gifts shown below.

1. Join our Newsletter Mailing List

2. Leave a comment on our Blog!

to have your name thrown in the hat yet another time:

3. Post about our Open House/Giveaway on your Blog or facebook page!

AND...for yet one more opportunity:

4. Purchase an item from the Merc!

Each time you purchase from the TDIPT Mercantile this month, you will qualify for an additional entry in the drawing.

If you are already on our mailing list, worry not - you are already in the drawing!

The Drawing will be held on Sunday November 27th.
Winners will be announced that same night right here on the TDIPT BLOG.

Following that, each artist will be contacting their lucky recipient so be sure to check your inbox and your spam folder for any stray emails, and also be sure to check back here to see if your name or email has been posted!

You will have until Wednesday, Nov. 30th to respond.

Please keep in mind, all of our artists who have generously donated a gift will also pay all shipping charges

within the continental USA. But we want everyone to participate and just ask that those of you outside the USA pay for the shipping.

We have one member from Canada who has donated, so the lucky winner of her lovely prize will be asked to pay for shipping if they are outside of Canada.

We do hope that you will JOIN US for the FESTIVITIES!

And now, without further adieu, check out the amazing gifts that are up for grabs from our very generous members:

From Audrey of Bay Ray's Child
a perfectly prim 12" Cupboard Sitter Santa

From Pea of Whimsical Endeavors
Snowflake Garland
5 ft. 5" coated in Silver Glass Glitter

From Patti of Winding Vine Designs
Peaceful Angel Pillow
(antique wool blanket appliqued to an antique coverlet) and a copy of the current issue of Prims Magazine.

From Kimberly of The Artful Attic,
Antique Inspired Stump Ragdoll.
She measures about 12 inches tall from the top of her head to the bottom of her skirt.

~Stringing the Lights~
A handpainted watercolor by Suzanne Davis of Pear Tree Primitives. This silhouetted snowman is stringing colorful Christmas lights on his small sparse tree. Ready to spread his Christmas cheer, he is framed in an 8 X 10 frame and comes ready to display.

From Jen of Prairie House Primitives a "perfect for your early home"
Log Cabin

From Jan Davis of Big Brown Dog Primitives
Vintage Angel Hangers

These oval ornaments made from Vintage Christmas photographs, hand cut and carefully inked, can hang on the tree or from a cupboard knob.

From Karen Brady of Brady Bears Studio

Snowman Shelf sitter or Tree topper.
He measures 9"tall.
Mohair head with old shoe button eyes. He is securely attached to a heavy cardboard cone which is covered in fabric.

His hat and scarf are made from cotton fabrics.

From Lynn of 2 Stitchin
Peace on Earth Stitchery, framed and ready to hang.

From Carol Roll Nostalgic Folk Art
Paper mache Florida Christmas Mermaid

From Sue Nagle of Paint in Thyme

Santa and Baby Lambs

The print is 5x7 on canvas from one of my original paintings I design for Colonial Williamsburg. I The frame is 1 1/2 " flat hand grained frame

From Lynn of Country Thyme Stitchery
A lovely pinkeep

From Sharon of Mustard Seed Originals

Partridge on a Pear Tree

5” tall ornament completely made from wool. Branch and berry applique on pear with sheer forest colored hanger.

Partridge has separately attached wings. Will make your tree complete this Christmas.

Thanks for visiting, and Best of Luck to all!

Coming soon......

2011-10-17T13:58:00.002-04:00

We hope you'll join us on TDIPT Mercantile in celebrating the holiday season. We'll kick it off w/ our annual Open House, which means lovely holiday handmades on the Merc and of course our fantastic giveaway beginning November 1st!

See you then :)

October 15th Updates

2011-10-14T23:09:00.002-04:00

TRICK OR TREAT ? Well no Tricks here so how about a Treat for your eyes?

It's not even Halloween yet and boy oh boy do we have the eye candy for you!

Here is just a little sample....

From Carly~Bayou Bears

Halloween Bunny

From Rachael ~Diamond K Folk Art

Charity Pofst

From Kimber~Heirlooms By Ashton House

Autumn Pincushions

From Stacey~Ravens Haven

Patience

To see much much more just click right *here* :)

TDIPT October Updates

2011-10-01T11:24:00.001-04:00

Fall has arrived and TDIPT Mercanilte has been updated with eye candy galore.

Grab a warm cup of your favorite drink and check out all of our fab offerings.

From Pattie*Winding Vine Desings~Do Not Disturb Wool Table Mat

From Annette*Confounded Concoctions~Batty Mattie

From Jennifer *Prairie House Primitives ~ Early Style Log Cabin

From Mo* Wings & Paws Whimsies ~Boo House

To see these and many more works or art check this out....

http://tdiptmercantile.com/artisanpage.html

TDIPT's spread in the newest issue of Prims magazine!

2011-09-28T13:43:00.013-04:00

We are so excited to finally see our 10 page article in print! This is part one of a two part story. Part two will be seen in the January 2012 issue.
If you haven't picked up or ordered the latest issue of Prims magazine, be sure to do so, as it's a goodie (well, actually, I've not seen an issue yet that isn't).

To order yours, click HERE!

A special thanks to Prims magazine for giving us the opportunity to tell our story, and also to Karen Brady for coming up w/ the idea. Karen organized everything, and helped to write the article along w/ the members themselves.

Also, a special thanks to the members for their contribution of gorgeous artwork, as well as their heartfelt thoughts to put in print so that everyone could read about TDIPT and how we got our start!

Hidden in the Attics' Pumpkins are fabulous to start us off!

Work from Pear Tree Primitives and Winding Vine Designs

Dogpatch Primitives and Wings and Paws Whimsies

Country Thyme Stitchery, Enchanted Woods Folk Art and Threadwork Primitives

Turkey Hollow Folk Art and Goldie loo Woodworks

Pear Tree Primitives, Two Stitchin, and Whimsical Endeavors

Curds and Whey

1897 House Primitives and Annie Beez Folk Art

Countryfolk Keepsakes and Moon Pie Primitives

The Crackling Crows and Brady Bears Studio

Thanks again to Prims, Karen, and the TDIPT members!!!

New September Offerings

2011-09-14T21:49:00.003-04:00

It's time once again for the Artists of TDIPT Mercantile to present their newest wares.

Great, Primitive, White Pumpkin Head Doll from
Old Branch Hollow.

Really fun ,Enchanted Crow Pinkeep
from Country Tyme Stitchery. Love the Witch Hat!

Drop by to check out all the new goodies!

New for September 1st

2011-08-31T21:31:00.003-04:00

Summer has flown and here we are on the brink of Fall! Here are just a few new offerings from the TDIPT Artists to help get you in the mood for Autumn.

From Lana of Honeysuckle Lane Folk Art

From Sharon of Mustard Seed Originals

Please be sure to drop by TDIPT Mercantile to see all the wonderful new goodness.

Updates From The Moonies

2011-08-14T22:45:00.000-04:00

Can you believe its already mid August and time for our Moonies to update their Mercanitle pages ? And I just have a feeling fall is in the air around the Mercantile. Be sure to stop by and check out the amazing new offerings from our very talented artists who present their new work on the 15th of each month.
Here is just a teeny tiny samplin' of whats in store for you.

Natasha~From Stacey of Ravens Haven

Quilts on Line~ From Sue of Paint In Tyme

I hope you enjoyed your sneak peek,please be sure to stop by the Mercantile to check ou tmuch much more. :)

http://www.tdiptmercantile.com/artisanpage.html

Mercantile Updates for August

2011-07-31T23:32:00.002-04:00

It may be hot outside but if you take a peek at TDIPT Mercantile, you might start thinking FALL. Many of our Artist have already been working on goodies for Halloween. Check us out, your bound to find something you can't do without.

From Countryfolk Keepsakes

Wilda the Witch and Job the Scarecrow Firewood Folks

From Brady Bears Studio

Old Toy Store Display

From Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives

Olde Haunted Witch Boot

From Dog Patch Primitives

Pandora & Her Pumpkin

Be sure to check the rest of the eye candy right *here*.

Mercantile updates for The 15th

2011-07-14T21:32:00.003-04:00

Here are just a few beautiful things from our super talented Artist who update on the 15th,The Moonies.

Penny Flower Sewing Box

From Country Crocks By Susan Burd

Old Fall Witch

From Sue of 1897 House Primitives

Oh My Stars Pinkeeps

From Nan Of Threadwork Primitives

To see much much more please click ~here~.

First Of July Updates

2011-06-30T21:23:00.000-04:00

Can you believe its almost July already? Guess what that means? Yep,you got it,TDIPT Mercantile Updates!

Here is a sneak peek at what's in store for you after 9 tonight.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

From Patti of Winding Vine Designs ~~Pride & Glory Pillow

From Lynn of 2 Stichin'~~Pumpkin Moon Farms Stitchery

From Annie of Annie Beez Folk Art~~ Beehive Candlemat

To see much more from our talented Artist please click *here*.

June 15th Updates

2011-06-14T22:13:00.001-04:00

My goodness,where has the time gone? I can't believe it's already time for our 15thers to update! And they have some really fantastic offerings in store for you this month.. How do I know you ask? Well, because I've been peeking & I'm going to let you have a little peek too. ;)

From Ravens Haven ~ Nell

From Boggy Bottom Bayou ~ Queenie

From Old Branch Hollow ~ Simple Folk

Thanks for peeking with me :)

Click *here* later this evening to see much much more.

June Updates

2011-05-31T22:12:00.001-04:00

It's update time! Check out some of the eye candy in store for you from our Artists who update the first of each month on TDIPT Mercantile.

From Ragpatch Primitives~Uncle Sam with Sheep

From Nostalgic Folk Art~Baby Steps

To see many more Amazing offerings please click *here*.

A Star Spangled Summer & Mercantile Updates.

2011-05-15T00:25:00.001-04:00

Its a Star Spangled Summer and TDIPT is starting it off with a BANG by having a group launch on eBay ! Starting tomorrow, May 15th. Please click *here* to see all the fabulous offerings.

And you don't want to forget our Aritst who update on the 15th. Some already have their Mercantile pages updated and others will have theirs updated very soon.

From Nothing Plain By Jane ~ Uncle Sam

From Country Thyme Stitchery~ ABC Sampler Pinkeep

From Boggy Bottom Bayou ~ Zsu Zsu

Just click *here* to see much much more. :)

TDIPT Mercantile updates for the first of May

2011-04-30T21:17:00.000-04:00

Its update time!

The TDIPT'ers who updated on the first of each month are as busy as bee's making honey getting their Mercantile pages updated this evening. Here is a teeny tiny preview of what is in store for you.

*~***~*

From Suzanne ~ Pear Tree Primitives

*Charity a Wall Doll*

From Ivonne~ The Crackling Crows

*America Banner*

From Pam ~ GoldieLoo Woodworks

*Family Rules Sign*

To see these and much more please click *here*.

April 15th Updates

2011-04-15T11:25:00.001-04:00

Our April 15th Artist have updated their pages with some of the most beautiful handmades around. Just look at some of the amazing offerings you can find.

Bloom Sampler Pin Pillow, a original design from Nan of Threadwork Primitives

Butterfly Collection from Jan of Big Brown Dog Primitives

Please click *here* to see many more wonderful offerings.

The House That Built Me

2011-04-05T14:07:00.001-04:00

Our 6th home in our series of

"The House that Built Me"comes from myself, Pam of GoldieLoo Woodworks.

Built in 1972 by my uncle, Lesli Hathcoat. This is the house that built me.

I was 7 years old when my family & I moved into our new home in the country. I was almost 20 when I moved out. At the time 13 years felt like a lifetime, of course looking back they went by too fast.
If the old walls in this house could talk they would tell of baby showers we hosted, large family get-togethers, the holidays, wedding receptions, and even a wedding. Even simple things like being forced to watch Hee Haw on Saturday night or having cousins over to play hide-go-seek or maybe just cranking up the stereo and singing to our hearts content while our parents played cards. Momma's home cooking, fried chicken and chocolate pies. Dad's country music was always playing. Sometimes I just enjoyed listening to the older folks tell stories of their days gone by.

Those old walls would also tell stories of a little girl who loved her Barbie dolls and easy bake oven. The little girl who loved to paint rocks and sell them when she could. A little girl who loved her dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses. A little girl who when her parents were not around she would sneak the dogs in the house.
They would tell of a teenage girl and her friends having lots of sleepovers, sharing stories about their boyfriends, who they were going to marry, and how many kids they would have one day. The house where she brought home the love of her life and a few years later married.

If the old walls could talk they would tell of so much laughter and fun, of the people who we brought home to meet the family, and the people we fell in love with. They would also tell of tears and sorrowful stories of our loved ones who passed, and hearts that were broken.
There are a whole lot of memories in that house.
I have been blessed to have such a wonderful family, life, and still have my parents living next door in the house that built me.

2011-03-31T23:09:00.001-04:00

~Its Update time!~By now most of the pages from TDIPT's artist who update on the first of each month have been updated.

Check out a few of the many wonderful offerings below.

From Curds and Whey ~ Spring Fling

From Chickadee Primitives ~ Emily ~ Primitive Spring Bunny

From Countryfolk Keepsakes ~ Lil' Alice in Wonderland

To see so much more eye candy from our artists please click *here*.

"Tonight's THE night!"

2011-03-27T12:40:00.010-04:00

Although the calendar may say "Spring", many of us are in areas that look and feel more like winter. Some areas even have snow! Not to worry, as the TDIPTers ain't havin it! We've rallied up our troops, and we're determined to chase old man winter right off the map with our Spring has Sprung launch starting tonight!

We hope you'll join us for our 1st ebay launch of 2011. Just type "TDIPT" into your ebay search to see all the wonderful creations from the very talented TDIPT members.

And The Winners are....

2011-03-21T07:56:00.000-04:00

A big thank you to everyone who joined in the fun for our birthday celebration and giveaway! Whether you signed up to receive our newsletter, follow our blog, left a kind word, or purchased a piece of TDIPT work, we want you to know we are appreciative of your interest and support, and we hope you will continue to visit the Mercantile on our 2 update evenings (the 14th and last evening of each month) to be one of the first to see what the talented TDIPT artists will be offering for consideration!

Without further adieu ...here are the lucky winners of the fantastic TDIPT gifts!

Each artist will contact the winner so please check your spam folder if you see your name here and haven't received an email.

Tammie of A Primitive Place wins Carol Roll Nostalgic Folk Art's USA Wall Angel

Wismomworks wins Enchanted Woods' Rustic Cottage

Jamie V wins Wings and Paws Whimsies' Spring Banner

Kerri/ the Calico Rabbit wins Moonpie Primitives' Pinkeep

Deb/ penelope wins 2 stitichin's Spring Stitchery

Josie Dettore winsThe Artful Attic's "Nora"

Diane Aakre wins Goldiloo Woodworks' Easter chunky blocks

Wendy-/rvwzies wins The Wooden Acorn's Spring Wool table mat

Mary Cochrane wins Ragpatch Primitives' Mouse doll

Grams1garden wins Confounded Concoctions' Lady bug cupboard hanger

A big congrats to the winners, as well as a huge thank you to the artists for their donations and complimentary shipping.

TDIPT Birthday Giveaway

2011-02-28T21:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to Us!!!

~ Welcome to our TDIPT Birthday Celebration! ~

We're turning 4, and it's with humble hearts & plenty of gratitude that we celebrate this milestone by showing our appreciation to our friends and customers with a

TDIPT Birthday Giveaway!

There are several ways to enter for your chance to win one of these extra yummy handmade pieces generously donated by TDIPT artists!

The more you sign up for, the better your chances.

•Sign up to receive our TDIPT Newsletter

(if you're already on our mailing list you qualify)

•Leave us a nice comment right here, and please be sure to leave your email addy

while you're at it.

•Purchase an item from any of the TDIPT artists, and we'll throw your name in the hat yet again for each item purchased.

And last but not least....

•Sign up to follow our blog.

That's it. That's all you have to do to be entered in to our giveaway!

Names will be drawn on March 20th, and we will post the names of the winners right here on the blog, and we will make one attempt to email you.

If we don't hear back from you within a few days, we will redraw, so be on the look out!

Now, for the Eye Candy....

From Carol Roll Nostalgic Folk Art

"God Bless the USA" Wall Angel

From Enchanted Woods Folk Art

Lighted rustic cottage...country red with white trim...7" x 6" x 8.5"

Included is the clip light and one weeping tree

From Wings and Paws Whimsies

Petite "Spring" Garland. Beveled triangles, trimmed in lace and papers, with two crystals at each end. All pieces are removable as they have lobster clasps. The chain is included.

From Moon Pie Primitives

Lovely Pin keep

From 2 Stitchin

Tulip (Spring thyme) Stitchery

From The Artful Attic

Nora. She is 9 3/4 inches tall and is a cloth and clay doll.

She comes with her custom stand too.

From Ragpatch Primitives

Spring Thyme Mouse

From GoldieLoo Woodworks

Easter Bunny~ Block Chunkies

From The Wooden Acorn

Hand Stitched Wool Applique Table Mat

From Confounded Concoctions

Lulu the Ladybug" cupboard ornament

February 15th updates

2011-02-14T22:48:00.001-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

Even Valentines day couldn't stop TDIPT's Artists from updating this evening. Here is a sneaky peeky at one of the many of the offerings available later this evening on TDIPT Mercantile.

~From Enchanted Woods,Fantasy Forest~

Please click here to see much much more.

The House That Built Me

2011-02-05T11:07:00.003-05:00

Our fifth home in our series of

"The House that Built Me"comes from

Jennifer of The Prairie House Primitives

Jennifers says...

"In 1978 an excited little girl who loved horses more than anything in the world
embarked on a journey from the plains of Oklahoma to the beautiful rolling hills
country of Middleburg, Virginia. As our car wound through the hills and curves
of historic Loudoun County en route to our new home I remember my nose pressed
against the glass in awe of the magnifiscent stables, the miles of horse
fencing, and the most glorious horses my young eyes had ever seen.
The house that built me was my dream come true.

It wasnt so much the house per say...it was everything that came with it. Our
new home was smack dab in the middle of the biggest horse country in the United
States. It was home to some of the biggest hunter/jumper, flat track, and
steeplechase trainers in the country.

I wasted no time at all begging my parents to buy me my first pony... from then
on it was nothing but horses, horses, horses! When i wasnt riding, I was
grooming, or cleaning barns. I lived horses, breathed horses, and dreamed
horses. At the tender age of 12 became a working student for a well known
trainer and worked every day of my summer vacation. I rode with Olympians and
learned from some of the best...

The house that built me taught me about discipline,hard work and that dreams can come true...
And although I didnt know it at the time this place that built me also created a love of something else...history.
Our farmhouse was built during the Civil War and sat on the SnickersvilleTurnpike, which was
the first toll road in the United States. In the early 1800's the area was
discovered by well to do Pennsylvanian William Mount who named the small town
after him-Mountville. In 1817 the town post office was open for business. It
still stood on our property when we purchased it over 150 years later. Inside
the old post office were the orginal mail counters...in later years a general
store was added to the post office. There were still old tin advertising signs
hanging on the wall that I sure wished I had kept!

My brother and I loved to explore and not long after wemoved in we found an old
rock pile that contained some old slave shackles...It was rumored
that a confederate treasure was buried in the woods adjacent to our house and we logged alot of miles looking for it!!!
The house that built me was home to my dreams and although it wasnt til years
later I realize I am blessed that it also gave me a love of history and all
things old and worn..."

A big thank you to Jennifer for sharing with us the house that built you!

2011-01-31T22:04:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it ?

Its February already !

And as always TDIPT's artists are busy as bees getting their pages updated. Here are a few things that's in store for you in February.

"Log Cabin" from Jennifer~The Prairie House Primitives

"Springtime Cupboard Hanger Bunny" from Linda~Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives

"When Jenny Was Young" from Carol~ Nostalgic Folk Art

To see much much more just click right *here*

The House That Built Me 4

2011-01-25T19:50:00.002-05:00

Our fourth home in our series of

"The House that Built Me"comes from

Karen (Cookie) DeGreve of Curds & Whey.

Karen says....

"I grew up in St. Joseph, MO, whose claim on the historical map is being the home of the Pony Express and the place where Jesse James met his end.
My parents purchased a house on Woodbine Road shortly after I was born, and at that time was considered “country living”. My father worked several jobs while my mom stayed home and filled our house with much love and many antiques. Our home was a haven and solace for all who entered. My mom could meet you at the door and in an instant you knew you were welcome in our home and that her love was genuine and true for you.

I often dream of my beloved childhood on Woodbine Road. Growing up, we never worried about leaving the doors unlocked or playing outside long after the sun went down. We had an acre of land that accompanied the house and that acre was the daily meeting place for every kid in the neighborhood. We grew up playing baseball, football, kickball, & hide-and-go-seek until our parents were hoarse from calling us to come in and get ready for bed.

My dad was so talented, he could build anything; he was so handy that he could fix any problem that arose. He built the fireplace on the south side of the house. My bedroom is in the top dormer that you see in this photo – it was a place that I always felt safe and secure.

Our lives were very simple and happy. On my wish list every birthday and Christmas, you would find - #1: A HORSE - and - #2: A COWGIRL OUTFIT like I saw in the “Monkey Ward” catalog. I never got either, but that didn’t stop me from asking for them!

We had many big apple trees that my girlfriends and I climbed daily. We would imagine it was the home where we lived together and various boughs of the trees became our kitchen, living room and bedrooms. My mom loved roses and planted beautiful rose gardens on 3 sides of the house. There was a white picket fence that lined the driveway and we walked the tight rope and learned to balance high wire acts with the greatest of ease as we mastered that picket fence!

Being the only girl & baby of the family, I suppose you could say I was a wee bit spoiled by dad. Some of my favorite memories are trailing behind him all day long and wherever he was, you would find me. I spent hours in his shop, watching him work on one project or another. He built stilts from wood and I loved the feeling of towering what felt like 10 feet above my brothers as I strutted on stilts around them. He built skateboards for me and my 2 older brothers, and in no time I was skating in circles on that front porch that seemed so much bigger when I was young.

We hosted many family gatherings at our home. My dad built onto the kitchen, doubling its size and also laid a brick patio out back. I still remember relatives dipping sweet tea from the huge crock on the back step or anxiously waiting for the ice cream maker to turn off, only to hear dad announce that it was time to “DIG IN”! Mind you, we kids didn’t notice most of that, as we were too busy picking cicada shells off the trees to scare each other with!

In 1966, life changed drastically for all of us. My mom, whom we loved and cherished, passed away days after my 12th birthday. My dad could not bear living in this home without her, so he sold it and moved us to another part of town. I always felt that a piece of my heart stayed behind in the move. After many years, I came back to St. Joe and made a point of driving by our home. I was thrilled to see that it had been turned into an antique shop. Even to this day I am drawn to that house and each time I find it open for business, I go inside and walk the rooms, reliving the first 11 most wonderful years of my life. And sometimes when I listen close, I still hear the whippoorwills calling to each other just like I remember them doing in the early morning hours of my childhood on Woodbine Road."

Thank you Karen for sharing with us the house that built you!

The House That Built Me 3

2011-01-21T20:05:00.000-05:00

Our Third house in our series of "The House That Built Me" comes from Annie ~ Chickadee Primitives.

Annie says ...

"The house that built me belonged to my grandmother, Deedee. Well, it didn’t really belong to her. She rented it after she and my grandfather lost the house they built due to illness. But Deedee made it a home. This is the home that built me.
The house was no more than 600 square feet. It was nestled inside the mountain she grew up on, and was surrounded by flat acreage for gardening, and deep woods for exploring. It was here that I learned how to chop wood, use a chainsaw, and stack it properly. She taught me how to run a tractor, and plant potatoes in mounds. As a child, I dreamed of the weekends with Deedee, in her old, beat-up truck, learning how to grow and harvest sugar baby watermelons from dirty seeds in overall pockets, and catch fireflies to put into jars. These are the lessons that built me.

We’d go out, into the forest behind the little house, on her jalopy of a snowmobile, with a rusty, metal sleigh attached for gathering wood. I loved riding on the back of that snowmobile, or better yet, driving, Deedee on the back, with her arms wrapped around me. This is the way to live, I think. These were the days the built me.
At Christmas, the whole family would gather at this tiny abode. My grandfather and I would sit at the piano together and play chopsticks for hours it seemed. He also played the accordion, which was always a treat, and was sure to get my grandmother out of the kitchen to join in on her harmonica. This was the music that built me.
When it came time to build my own house, I tried to reflect on Deedee’s little place in the woods. I made a conscious effort to create a home, not just a house. I wanted Star Flowers, Lady Slippers, and Princess Pine, in the woods all around me. I wanted to wake up to the birds, and sleep to the song of the Katydids. I wanted guests to feel at home when they visit, and eagerly await their return. I wanted to find peace and solace in my house, and to feel loved when I’m home, as I always did in the house that built me. "

Thank you Annie for sharing with us, The House That Built You !

The House That Built Me 2

2011-01-19T09:17:00.003-05:00

Our second home in our series of
"The House that Built Me"comes from
Phillane (Pea) Saathoff of Whimsical Endeavors.

Pea says....

"The house that built me. A little white house with brick bottom and black shutters. Big corner lot, perfect lawn and huge vegetable garden that provided many a yummy feast.

A hour from our favorite fishing hole and enough huge night crawlers in the yard to catch the big ones.

The home was safe and warm. Always yummy smells coming from inside. My first memories are in that house. Riding my new tricycle in the unfinished basement, learning to sew, cook and paint in that home. My first date with my Dear Husband was at that house. My last day at home was the day before my wedding. I learned everything I needed to know to go out into the world at this house. From chasing my dreams, your word is your honor and how to love someone with all your heart. Along with everything in between. The house that built me is still standing. Teaching someone else all they need to know. I hope it is done with the same sweetness as it was done for me. I wonder what color my pink room is now?mmmmmmmmmmmm"

****************

Thank you Pea for sharing the house that built you!

It's Update time again!

2011-01-14T22:39:00.000-05:00

Its update time again! Here is a sneak peek from our Artist who update on the 15th.

"Adella" From Kimberly ~The Artful Attic

"Berries & Cream Doll Quilt" From Kimber ~ Heirlooms By Ashton House

To see these and so many more wonderful items on the Mercantile you can click *here*.

TDIPT presents.......

2011-01-07T22:25:00.004-05:00

Inspired by country singer Miranda Lambert's hit song,

"The House That Built Me"

we thought it would be fun to share with you some of the homes of the TDIPT artists they feel most helped to build them.....whether it be their childhood homesteads, or the place they now call home, or perhaps one in the same.

Our first home is from Karin of Countryfolk Keepsakes.

Karin says...

"I am truly grateful that I am able to continue to walk through the doors of my childhood home. Although my daddy is no longer with us, my mama is still there. Esthetically, it has changed over the years but my fond childhood memories are the same.

Mama is the artistic one and I am so grateful to have her " creative gene." She taught me to appreciate old things, paint the walls any color I like and to swing a hammer. (Even if it's at 2 o'clock in the morning because of an idea to create something)

She also taught me when picking out a dollie, to pick the one with the face that "speaks" to you. Not all dollies do.

Daddy fixed my broken toys, taught me to ride my bicycle without training wheels, taught me to plant a garden and to feed the birds. He also taught me to drive a car, change the oil and he always made sure any date I had came to the door first to meet him. Both taught me to keep a sense of humor about life and the importance of eating dinner together (everyday) as a family.

In that little red house not only did I take my first steps, I lovingly kissed my daddy goodbye for the last time.

A lot of love has flowed through that home. I can only hope someday, when another family lives within those walls, they will experience the same love of family I was blessed to have. :> )"

Karin Pender

Countryfolk Keepsakes

Thanks Karin for sharing The House That Built You !

Be sure to check back often to see more.

A Happy New Year ! Mercantile Updates are here!

2010-12-31T20:56:00.002-05:00

From TDIPT to you...

A new year is beginning to peak through

softly beautiful and different like new falling snow,

each day unique and shaped just for you.

Your life adding something as each day does grow.

My wish for your new year is beauty

and softness with surprises thrown in for delight.

Love for each day bringing happiness to you,

making your life a scene of sparkle and shining sunlight.

-- Author Unknown

*****************

A New Year is amoung us and what better way to get yourself and your home ready for the New Year than with some of the finest Primitive & Folk Art offerings around.
Here is a sample of what awaits you on TDIPT Mercantile from our artist who update on the first of each month.

*Snow Bear From Brady Bears Studio*

*Dolores & Dorothy from Pear Tree Primitives*

To see much much more just click right ~here~.

HAPPY NEW YEAR !

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T10:07:00.001-05:00

The TDIPT Family wishes our visitors a

Very Merry Christmas!

Tis the Season!

2010-12-18T09:02:00.003-05:00

I love baking cookies at Christmas Time, and these here are my husbands VERY favorite. They're simple to make, they look festive, and best of all they are Deeeeeee-lish, and if you love Chocolate Covered Cherries, these will no doubt be your favorite cookie too!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies

1 1/2 c all-purpose flour
1/2 c unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 t baking soda
1/4 t baking powder
1/4 t salt
1/2 c unsalted butter, softened
1 c sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 t vanilla
24 maraschino cherries
1/2 c semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 c sweetened condensed milk

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Mix the flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder & salt together, set aside.

In a mixer beat the butter until softened. Add the sugar to the butter & beat until light & fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Add the flour mixture & beat until well mixed.

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls & place them 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheets. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Drain the cherries reserving the juice. Remove the stems & cut the cherries in half. Place 1/2 of a cherry into the indentation in each cookie.

Put the chocolate chips & condensed milk in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is melted. Stir in 4 teaspoons of the cherry juice. Spoon 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of chocolate over the top of each cherry covering it completely. If the chocolate is too thick add a little more cherry juice.

Bake for 10 minutes & cool on a rack.

Makes 48

Merry Christmas from TDIPT!!

December 15th "Moonies" updates.

2010-12-14T22:50:00.001-05:00

Christmas is among us and some of TDIPT's finest are updating their pages as I type ! And if you are a last minute shopper like some of us, its still not too late to do a bit of Holiday shopping on the Mercantile.

Patriot Santa from Katherine of Old Branch Hollow

Prim Santa from Audrey of Bay Rays Child

Please click *here* to see much more from our talented artist.

Happy Holidays

MERRY CHRISTMAS

December 1st Updates

2010-11-30T21:23:00.001-05:00

Can you believe its already time for December 1st updates? Our little "elves" are busy as bees updating their Mercantile pages.

Here is just a sample of what is in store for ya in December.

*********

Chinese Checkers for Two From GoldieLoo Woodworks

Peg Leg Petite Santa From Dogpatch Primitives

Santa Banner from The Crackling Crows

Mini Tree Skirt From Annie Beez Folk Art

Click *here* to see much much more.

~*~ Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays~*~

Pineapple Casserole

2010-11-23T19:46:00.000-05:00

My sister introduced me to this tasty casserole last year. She's always making new dishes for the Holidays. Some are good and sadly some not so good (hehe). When she told me last year she was bringing this dish for Christmas dinner I really didn't think I would like it at all since I'm not a fan of pineapple. But to my surprise it is delicious ! And to make it even better it is quick and easy.

This makes a nice side dish to your Turkey or Ham.

20 oz. can of Pineapple tidbits(reserve 3Tb of liquid, drain the rest)

1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers

3 Tb of self raising flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup melted butter

********

Mix together flour, sugar, 3Tb spoons of juice, pineapples & cheese. Pour into a small casserole dish. Top with crackers and drizzle with butter.

Bake @300 for 20 minute's.

Yummm Yummm!

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!

2010-11-20T18:34:00.007-05:00

It’s been a very exciting day around the

TDIPT homestead and we are so excited

to announce that the winners have been drawn!

We would like to wish many congratulations

to our lucky recipients!

You will be contacted by your artist soon -
and we would ask that you respond by Wednesday

in order to allow our artists to mail your gift

to you in a timely manner.

The holidays will soon be in full swing
and we want to give you plenty of time
to enjoy your wonderful handmade during the season!

With that being said and with heartfelt congratulations,
We celebrate with the following winners:

Nancy

Jan
April
Pam
Karen
Cathy
Tina
Susie
Terry
Darlene
Linda
Lola
Debra
Monica
Cathy
Kelly
Mary
Janet
Carol

Remember, with the Thanksgiving holiday,
we will need to hear back from you by Wednesday -

otherwise another name may have

to be drawn in your place.

Many thanks to everyone for joining in the fun and
helping us make our Open House such a wonderful success!

CONGRATS AGAIN TO OUR WINNERS!

Join the Celebration!

2010-10-30T23:34:00.030-04:00

Take a step back in time this November
as we celebrate on the TDIPT Mercantile with a

COLONIAL CHRISTMAS!

Each of our very gifted artists will be creating something special and unique with a colonial flair that is sure to make it an exciting month of celebration!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We are also celebrating
during the entire month of November with our
3rd ANNUAL
♥ Christmas Open House ♥

Nineteen of our very talented artisans have graciously donated amazing handmades to make this celebration as captivating for you as it is for all of us!

Entering the drawing is so easy!
To qualify to win one of the wonderful gifts shown below, simply join our Mercantile Blog Mailing List OR Leave a comment on our Blog!

You can also

DOUBLE your CHANCES of WINNING!

Each time you purchase from the TDIPT Mercantile

this month, you will qualify for an additional entry in the drawing.
If you are already on our mailing list, worry not - you are already in the drawing!

The Drawing will be held on November 21, 2010

Winners will be announced that same night right here on the TDIPT BLOG.
Following that, each artist will be contacting their lucky recipient so be sure to check your inbox and your spam folder for any stray emails.

You will have until Wednesday, Nov. 24th to respond.

Please keep in mind, all of our artists who have generously

donated a gift will also pay all shipping charges
within the continental USA.
But we want everyone to participate -

and just ask that those of you outside the USA
pay for the shipping.

We do hope that you will JOIN US for the FESTIVITIES!

And now, without further adieu, check out the amazing gifts that are up for grabs from our very generous members:

Big Brown Dog Primitives
has donated set of 5 Christmas tags
made with images from Vintage Christmas Cards

Boggy Bottom Bayou
has donated this sweet Swamp Rat

Brady Bear Studios
has donated an adorable Noel bear

Chickadee Primitives
has donated a 5x7 Giclee Reproduction of Oliver

Country Thyme Primitives
has donated this perfectly sweet stitched pinkeep

Crowsnest Pass Primitives
has donated a precious mousie pinkeep!

Diamond K Folk Art
has donated a gorgeous snowqueen perfect for anyone's tree!

Eat Crow Primitives
has donated a lighted colonial house and boxwood tree

Enchanted Woods
has donated a Colonial Christmas Vignette,
complete with rustic Country Church, trees and figurines

Hot Metal Mama and Nostalgic Folk Art
combined their efforts to offer this wonderful mache' snowman standing next to a fireplace

Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives
has donated a Buttery Cupboard / Wall Pocket Hanger

Moon Pie Primitives
has donated this precious stitched pinkeep

Nothing Plain by Jane
has donated this sweet Pilgrim and pumpkin

Old Branch Hollow
has donated a paper mache and cloth Santa ornies w/ a painted storage box

Pear Tree Primitives
has donated this 5 1/2 X 8" Hand painted NOEL wooden plaque

Prairie House Primitives
has donated this gorgeous Santa cupboard

The Wooden Acorn
has donated a set of 6 Christmas Pudding Wool Applique penny ornies

Threadwork Primitives
has donated a sawdust stuffed pinkeep

1897 House Primitives
has donated a fantastic santa in a winter stocking!

It's a TDIPT Holiday Celebration!

2010-10-24T18:04:00.020-04:00

We are celebrating on the TDIPT Mercantile

during the month of November with a

"Colonial Christmas"

theme that is sure to put you in the mood!

Each of our very gifted artists will be creating something special and unique with a colonial flair

that is sure to make it an amazing month on the Merc!

But the excitement continues:
During the month of November,

we are hosting our 3rd ANNUAL

♥ Christmas Open House ♥

To kick off the holiday season and to show our appreciation to all of you, we'll not only offer the best in holiday handmades available, but we're having a very impressive drawing with donations from some of the finest artesans out there!

Qualifying will be a snap -

just sign up to receive the TDIPT newsletter!

If you currently receive the monthly newsletter that comes packed with highlights, recipes and articles, then you are already qualified for the drawing!

But it gets better!

Each purchase from the TDIPT Mercantile

from Oct. 31 through Nov. 20th

will qualify you for another entry in the drawing.

Names will be drawn & winners announced on November 21st!

Check back later this week to witness first-hand

the photos of all of the marvelous donations

submitted by some of TDIPT's finest!

And don't forget to stop by on

Sunday evening, October 31st

to see the incredible Colonial Christmas offerings

that will be available to purchase!

Updates from the Moonies!

2010-10-14T20:28:00.001-04:00

It's Update time from our Artist who update on the 15th. I've been poking around and believe you me they have some unbelievable stuff in store for you.

Here is just a little sample.

Miss Penelope from Carly ~ Boggy Bottom Bayou

Patience is a Virtue from Valerie ~ The Wooden Acorn

Clara The Christmas Angel From Nancy~Moon Pie Primitives

Please click ~here~ to see more.

The Spotlight's On Hot Metal Mama

2010-10-11T21:30:00.003-04:00

Teresa (Tee) Thompson

~AKA~

Hot Metal Mama

•Where do you live?

I live in Wilbur By The Sea FL, a tiny little spot at the end of the peninsula here in the greater Daytona Beach area. We’re three blocks wide with Wilbur Bay on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. A very sweet spot.

•Can you tell us a little about your family?

My immediate family includes my husband of 24 years Mike and my two irish terriers Gracie and Guinness. I have three sisters who I adore.

•Do you work outside the home?

My artwork is my full time profession although I actually work in my studio which is located in a large warehouse about 20 miles from my house.

•Do you have an hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

Oh my, I’m a little ADD but my newest passion is bee keeping. A friend and I started our first hive in March and added a second hive about two months ago. I am completely gaga over my girls. Bees are soooo fascinating. We harvested our first honey last month. It was a small draw but mainly mangrove honey as our hives are located along the saltwater marshes behind my friend’s house. I’m prejudiced but it was the best honey I’ve ever tasted. I also have a gypsy soul and travel whenever and where ever I can- my last big trip was a girls hiking trip on the Inca Trail in Peru to Machu Picchu.

•What are some of your favorite things?

My fur babies, my bees, being outside, cranking up the music in the studio while welding, junking with friends.

•Do you collect anything in particular?

I’m now looking for vintage bee keeping items, I love old school papers, vintage letters, old electric fans, anything old Florida.

•How did you get your start in your creative business?

When? About 15 years ago my husband and I bought and restored a small victorian in a tiny town in Colorado. It has this fantastic old oven that is electric and coal burning and only had one oven rack. I took a welding class to make myself an oven rack and never looked back.

•Tell us how you got your business name?

My company name – Hot Metal Mama, Inc. came from my perverse love of alliteration and my odd sense of humor. It always makes people laugh and they might not remember my name but always remember my company name. I don’t think I would have the guts to go with that name now that I’ve been in the business so long and take myself so much more seriously- I think there’s lesson in there for me:)

•Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

I come from a long line of Polish women- we’re pretty much all women on my Mom’s side. All of us do something creative – my great grandmother who lived next door to us when I was growing up could do anything- seriously. She was an extraordinary baker, cook, and she was the best needle worker I’ve ever seen. I have some of her tatting pieces that humble me. My mom was Martha Stewart before Martha served her first meal. So, I would definitely so I come by it honestly.

•How do you keep ideas coming?

Uumm- that’s a good question. Many times, an idea finds me from something fabulous found at the flea market. Sometimes I wake up with some idea itching behind my eyes and ultimately works it’s way to the surface. Sometimes, good ideas have evolved out some custom piece I was commissioned to do.

•Who/what inspires you?

I have the strongest group of creative friends anyone could be blessed with. They are fiercely creative and keep me laughing and inspired.

•Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

I started working out my garage, and I used to roll everything out into the driveway every day. I outgrew the garage after a couple years but still have people are local shows tell me they remember seeing me work out there. I moved into a warehouse that I rent from a friend. It’s such a fabulous space. It butts up to wetlands and deep woods. We have tons of wild life- this spring we had a hawk nest that we actually got to watch the two chicks grow and fly the nest. I’m very very lucky.

•How do you organize your supplies?

Not very well :) I have a huge rack system that holds up to 10’ X 4’ sheets of metal and most of my scraps. I have most of my tools, my MIG welder, two plasma cutters and a chop saw on wheels and can move them around the studio. I have a covered patio area that I use to cut my metals because of the ventelation.

•Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

Oh lord yes. I am the downloading queen. I have eclectic tastes- I pretty much like anything but if I had to pick a few I’d say new voices like Jack Johnson and Ben Harper. I love Willie Nelson and Toots and the Maytals. Some young new stuff would be The Heartless Bastards and Edward and the Magnetic Zeros. I have a passion for Concha Buika, a spanish flamingo singer and my newest favorite indie/folk/country singer is Mary Gauthier.

•Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?

Well, I do a lot of large custom work which can be challenging. I’m really tired of a large project towards the end of it but then if I happen to get to see it again, I fall in love with all over again.

•What have you learned about marketing?

I’m always willing to try anything new, particularly if it’s a free internet based idea like Facebook (search Hot Metal Mama, Inc. on FB) I still have addresses of clients from over 15 years ago and do a hard mailer once a year. I ask for internet addresses from all my new clients and email blast from my website. I have a publicist (I built her a fence for her services) and she has been fantastic to me. She’s gotten my work profiled in Coastal Living, Lexus Magazine and the Miami Herald.

•What keeps you motivated?

I love what I do. The sheer freedom to create whatever I want, to try new and difficult things- it really keeps me excited.

•Do you sell you work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?

I do sell in some galleries and I do art shows here in Florida. I’ve taken myself off the road for the last several months working on my first art in public places commission. It’s been a real learning experience and I hope to secure more public commissions in the future.

• Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work? See above.

•Do you have any tips you would like to share?

I try to take a class or two once a year to try something new. I’m usually terrible at it but it opens the windows up in the brain. Can’t close them once they’re open.

•Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?

I’m thinking about taking violin lessons this winter.

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

2010-10-06T09:29:00.004-04:00

Great news!! TDIPT Mercantile now has a Facebook page!

So be sure to visit us by clicking on our Facebook badge below.

Tdipt Mercantile

We look forward to seeing you there!

October First Updates

2010-09-30T21:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Fall Everyone!

Here is a little peek at some of the amazing things you will see on the Mercantile later this evening from our Artists who update on the first of each month.

"Thomas" From Karin ~Countryfolk Keepsakes

"Holly and Bear Pull Toy" From Joyce~Ragpatch Primitives

"Prim and Polka Dot Witch" From Annie~Chickadee Primitives

"Velvety Baby Boo Pumpkin" From Patti~ Winding Vine Designs

To see many more items from our talented Artists please click ~here~.

September 15th Updates

2010-09-14T22:13:00.000-04:00

TDIPT Update time. Our Artist who update on the 15th are working like busy little bees updating their Mercantile pages. I got a couple of them to share a few pictures with us so we could have a sneak peek.

From Sue of 1897 House Primitives ~ OLde 1802 Santa with Dollie

From Country Crocks By Susan Burd ~ Pumpkin Peddler Block Set

Click *here* to find much much more from our talented Artist.

September 1st Updates

2010-08-31T22:22:00.001-04:00

It's that time again...our talented TDIPT artist are busy updating their mercantile pages. Your gonna be blown away with all the spectacular goodies they have in store for you this month. Just take a peek at a few of the fab offerings ....

Uncle Riggie Mortis From Karen AKA Cookie of Curds & Whey

Felicity Flutterbunny from Annette of Confounded Concoctions

Cecelia a Circus Runaway from Michelle AKA The Blackberry Briar

Click *here* to find more of TDIPT's Artist offerings.

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

2010-08-25T00:12:00.000-04:00

Here are the final pictures from our summer series of How Does Your Garden Grow? Though they may be the final pictures they certainly are not the least.

The first pictures are shared with us by Karin AKA Countryfolk Keepsakes. You can tell just by looking at her beautiful flower gardens and displays that Karin has a sunny & humorous personality.

Thanks Karin!

Take a look at these pictires from Sue AKA 1897 House. Such beautiful and breath taking garden and flower beds. How I would love to be setting on that front porch sipping tea.

Thanks Sue!

And our last pictures are from Annette AKA Confounded Concoctions.

What a tasty looking garden she has. And check out this big ole sunflower,love it!

Thanks Annette!

Thanks to all of you who have shared our gardens with us.

And a big thanks to the TDIPT ladies for sharing their pictures.

2010-08-18T06:56:00.006-04:00

Annie Belcher

~ Annie Beez Folk Art ~

We asked Annie:

•Where do you live?

Outside Chicago in the western suburbs.

•Can you tell us a little about your family?

I have a wonderful husband of 25 years and 4 kids, 3 are still at home and 1 goes to Marquette University in Milwaukee. Oh and 2 very funny cats!

•Do you have any hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

I have too many hobbies, mostly needlework related! I love to try everything and I have the stash to prove it! Besides making dolls, quilts, stitcheries and cross stitch, I also scrap book and enjoy painting in watercolors. I also have a large garden and really enjoy canning my own fruits and vegetables, making pickles and things like that. I love making my own homemade natural foods for my family and will go the extra mile to achieve that! My husband helps me in the garden a lot, it is something we enjoy doing together. We are planning to put in a beehive this coming spring so we can have our own honey!

•What are some of your favorite things?

Well I love antique and vintage things of almost all eras. Lately I have really been inspired by the 1930's through the 1950's era. I truly love the cheerful colors of the 30's style, and I love the 1950's kitchen!

•Do you collect anything in particular?

I collect china teapots and cups, dolls old and new, pretty china plates, old silverware, and vintage embroidered linens.

•How did you get your start in your creative business? When?

In 1999 my youngest daughter Isabel was born, and I realized I just could not continue to work outside the home and take care of my four children the way I wanted to. I stayed home after she was born, and started making dolls for my 2 girls to play with. I entered a few in local craft shows and they were very well received. At the same time we were new to the internet and I discovered primitive dolls. I was just filled with ideas and began selling them on ebay. I had a lot of success and my business was born!

•Tell us how you got your business name?

My husband made up "annie beez"as an email address and then it just stuck as a business name. I have had a love/hate relationship with the name for years and even tried to change it a couple of times, but now I am ok with it!

•Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

My side of the family is loaded with artists and musicians, and my daughter Chelsea is a wonderful artist in her own right! And my son Aidan is super creative, especially in writing.

•How do you keep ideas coming?

I buy a lot of magazines to keep up on the trends-I'm addicted to them really! I also read a lot of blogs.

•Who/what inspires you?

Well ultimately it is God who inspires me, but a lot of my inspiration comes from homemaking. Everything I make is something I would display in my own home. I love decorating!

•Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

I don't have a studio right now because I have given it up so my oldest daughter can live there while she attends the local college. However-she is getting married and then I will get my space back! So right now I have a corner in my bedroom. Its way too small!I usually lay quilts out on my bed, and sometimes when the weather is nice I paint in the back yard. Its a temporary situation and when I do get my space back I'm sure I will really appreciate it!

•How do you organize your supplies?

I have extra storage space in the basement, so I only keep what I am using right now in my work space. I like to keep it organized and try to do a good clean up after every project.

•Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

Sometimes, I listen to folk and bluegrass. But mostly I listen to internet radio and books on tape.

•Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?

My favorite piece is what I am working on at the moment!

•What have you learned about marketing

To keep a consistent stream of work out there. If you take any time off the world will forget about you immediately. There is just so much out there it is easy to get lost in the crowd.The other thing I've learned is to be better about tooting my own horn. This was something that was very hard for me to learn. I was good at creating but I didn't want to promote myself because it felt like bragging. Once I realized it was about business and that if you don't sell your work it won't go anywhere, I had a lot more success.

•What keeps you motivated
Probably my love of fabric! I always see something new I want to use!

•Do you sell your work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?
I have a lot of cross stitch patterns in shops across the nation. My doll and stitchery patterns are mostly sold online.

• Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work?
I have been published in Soft Dolls and Animals, Country Marketplace, and Contemporary Doll Collector.

•Do you have any tips you would like to share?
Create from the heart and give God the glory!

•Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?
I have never driven into Chicago-I am terrified of big city traffic!! LOL!

TDIPT Mercantile August 15th Updates

2010-08-14T22:54:00.001-04:00

Tonight's the night for our fabulously talented artist to update their Mercantile pages. I have already took a peek and man oh man there are so many fantastic goodies.

Here's a teeny tiny sneak peek....

Old Crow from our new gal Nancy AKA Moon Pie Primitives

Vintage Halloween Duo From Jan AKA Big Brown Dog Primitives

To see much more please click *here*.

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

2010-08-07T09:41:00.022-04:00

Its time for another group of garden pics from our summer series

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Here are some beautiful garden & flower pictures from our gal Audrey AKA Bay Rays Child.

Thanks Audrey!

Annie AKA Chickadee Primitives shared some pictures with us of her gorgeous & serene garden.

Thank you Annie!

And lastly a few from myself...Pam AKA GoldieLoo Woodworks

Thanks for taking time to share our flowers and gardens.
Be sure to watch for more How Does Your Garden Grow? coming soon

August first TDIPT Mercantile Updates

2010-07-31T20:57:00.002-04:00

July is almost over and the eve of August first is among us. Many of our amazing artist will be offering delightful and sometimes frightful Halloween creations. Here is a sneaky peaky at some of the offerings you will see this later this evening for our ladies who update on the first.

From Carol Roll Nostalgic Folk Art ~ Kindness Matters

From Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives ~ Halloween Party

From 2 Stitchin ~ Needle Punch Pumpkin Candle Paddle

From Brady Bears Studio~ Blue Boy and Pinkie.

You can check them out right ~here.~

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-07-22T19:36:00.001-04:00

Welcome to second series of How Does Your Garden Grow.

*******

These first 4 pictures are from Jennifer aka Prairie House Primitives.

For those of you who know Jennifer, you know she has lots of farm critters . Looks like they are pretty fond of her flowers or maybe they are just eager to help with the pest control.;)

Thanks Jen!

Here is a hanging basket of beautiful mini petunias from Janelle of Litttle Sisters Dolls.

Thanks Janelle!

Carol Roll of Nostalgic Folk Art has a spectacular flower garden.

Love this big ole Sunflower.

Thank You Carol !

Be sure to visit often so you won't miss any of the TDIPT members gardens!

TDIPT Mercantile Updates for July 15th

2010-07-14T21:32:00.001-04:00

I hope everyone is staying cool, it seems to be miserably hot most everywhere right now.

Why not have an ice cold glass of your favorite drink and take a peek at a few things you will see on the Mercantile later tonight from some of our amazingly talented Artist.

*Fraktur Folk Bird From Eat Crow Primitives*

*Vintage Petites From Whimsical Endeavors*

*Quaker Pouch From Threadwork Primitives*

To see more amazing work please click here ~TDIPT Mercantile~

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

2010-07-11T22:13:00.008-04:00

TDIPT's Artististic talents run very deep. We have some amazing gardeners's in our group. I have had some breathtaking photos sent to me for our "How Does Your Garden Grow" and decided to start out with some photos from Kimber AKA Heirlooms By Ashton House. Kimber's fabulous garden was featured in Country Gardens Spring 2009 issue.

Kimber says, "When we moved into ourr 1885 Victorian home, this entire little enclave of land was just grass. We thought it would make a nice little pocket garden, so we took up the sod, installed brick-lined beds and pea gravel paths encased by a line of English boxwood. It was our "therapy" as we tackled less exciting home improvement projects like updating the electrical, plumbing, and fixing the roof! "

Thanks for taking time to view one of our lovely gardens. Be sure to check back because we have more "How Does Your Garden Grow" coming soon.

Thanks Kimber for sharing your garden with us!

2010-07-04T22:49:00.010-04:00

Ivonne Brown

~ The Crackling Crows ~

We asked Ivonne:

Where do you live?

My husband Kevin and I are living in a 2 story house in a little Farm town in Georgia with our 2 cats...1 hour away from the beautiful Savannah, GA...wonderful old city with tons of Ghost stories! Our area is also known for the *Vidalia* sweet onions!

Ivonne's husband Kevin

Can you tell us a little about your family?

I was born and raised in Germany, I have 1 Sister, married and has 1 daughter. My Mom and Sister are living in Germany about 21/2 hours from Munich...we lost our Dad to cancer in 2007...we miss him terribly. My husband of 11years Kevin has spent the last 12 years in the Army and his family is from Indianapolis, IN, we have 8 years left before we retire...

Do you work outside the home?

No I don't, I'm a full time Artist and I'm fortunate to be able to stay at home to pursue my passion to be creative. I used to be a Dental Assistant and worked in that career for 18 years.

Do you have an hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

I like to spend as much time as I can with Kevin...my soul mate and best friend :) doing out doors things like hiking and biking and we both love Antique shopping. I also found a new hobby, cross stitching old samplers, it is so relaxing...and looks awesome decorated.

One of Ivonne's Banners

What are some of your favorite things?

Shopping for antiques. Spending hours in Craft stores. Talking on the phone with my friends whom I met being stationed in different States. Photography which one day I would like to do professional...but I have long ways to go.

Do you collect anything in particular?

I like to collect old looking wooden signs, primitive Halloween decorations, old style furniture's.

How did you get your start in your creative business? When?

I always was creative, when I was little, my Mom gave me some play-do and I was happy for hours creating things. Over the years I tried all kind of different things, I started to work with *Fimo* clay and made jewelry and little door signs this was the first time I was selling my crafts. I also enjoyed tole painting on wood pieces I cut myself.
Around 2003 I came across an old style doll a saw in an antique shop, I was so inspired that I wanted to learn how to make a doll...I started ou to sew dolls from patterns which was a lot of fun and over the times I came up with my own original designs.

Pottery outside of a little shop in Rothenburg, Germany that sells pottery and gifts.

Tell us how you got your business name?
My husband came up with it, I wanted a business name with the word *Crows* in it...my English wasn't that good at the time so I didn't realize it was supposed to say *TheCacklingCrows* but is was to late already...my name was out there and I love my name now...it is unique...I think!

Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

Both of my Parents did always something creative. My Mom used to to sew and stitch all the time...she made the half stitch sampler...very beautiful and my Dad used his hand saw and cut wood silhouettes pictures...I always adored them and he was very creative in his garden...the garden was is art project.
My Grandma was a very gifted seamstress...I loved to watch her when she was sewing clothes and she showed me the basics.

How do you keep ideas coming?
They just keep coming...I need to start to write them down! I love to look through old magazines to get some great ideas.

Who/what inspires you?

Hard to say...I have good ideas coming to me when we are walking in the nature (not always possible with the heat in GA)...different Artisans inspire me...primitive magazines...ideas are always around us we just have to notice them.

Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

I use my big bonus room over the 2 car garage as my studio but occasionally I spill over into the dining room and kitchen oh and in the evening I stitch in the living room with my cat on my lap :)

How do you organize your supplies

In my studio I have a big closet where I keep my bins and baskets. I try to stay organized which is sometimes not an easy task. Regardless where I put my colored tinsel pom poms my cat Spooky will find them (see through bin) and play with them...by the end of the day I have tons of pom poms laying around. I should video tape it and put it on You Tube...it is so funny how he opens the drawer with his paws and steals the pom poms and he is sooo excited.

Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

Yes, I do...I love to listen to hip hop...isn't that funny? But most of the time the TV is running in the background and I don't even listen to it...

Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?

Yes, it is a doll called *Sophie* she is MY most favorite doll, she is a primitive Halloween doll with a lot of details...this was my last doll I made and I want to make her again when I pick up my needle and thread again. I also love the painted Banners I'm making...can't wait for Halloween!!!

Sophie

What have you learned about marketing ?
Be active in the market and keep your name out there and to keep the customers excited with new creations.

What keeps you motivated ?
My customers, their enthusiasm motivates me to keep creating and I'm always motivated. Creativity comes to me naturally!

Do you sell you work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?

I used to sell my Dolls in a very nice shop in Williamsburg, VA...but we had to move away (Army). I started to sell on Ebay and of course on TDIPT.
No, I don't participate in Shows, too much preparation and it distracts from my on-line business...but I love to go to Shows!

Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work?
No, not yet maybe one day...but my customers are giving me great reviews and that counts a lot to me to know that my customers are happy when they receive my work.

Do you have any tips you would like to share?
Always stay true to yourself and keep focused on your creative inner-self!

Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?
Well, lets see I'm very adventurous as an example I flew on a small airplane, going on very long hikes and my next goal is to skydive and learn how to play golf. I'm also a HUGE fan of Michael Jacksonm, I love his music...I was at his concert in Germany in 1993.

Group of musician's wearing their traditional garments in *Kloster Andechs* where they are brewing beer...famous for the dark beer!

Thank you for reading my story, I hope you enjoyed it :)

Thanks so very much Ivonne! It's been a delight to read all about you!

July 1st Updates

2010-06-30T21:21:00.001-04:00

Can you believe it's almost July already? And,of course the artists who update on the first are busy little bee's getting their offerings on their Mercantile pages for you all to see later this evening. But until then, here's a little sneak peek.....

Claire from Dogpatch Primitives

"Scarlett O'Hare and her Bunch" from Confounded Concoctions

Frannie and Freddie- Folk Art Portraits From Pear Tree Primitives

Havest Time Santa from Tallowberry Primitives

Click here for more "eye candy" .

June 15th Mercantile Updates

2010-06-15T08:58:00.000-04:00

The Mercantile has been updated! Wow do our TDIPT Artists who update on the 15th have some fabulous goodies for you. ~Here is just a sample.

"Sis" From Audrey~Bay Ray's Child

Queen Alice From Mo~Wings & Paws Whimsies

~ Click *here* to see more ~

We're havin a LAUNCH!!

2010-06-12T09:04:00.008-04:00

Our TDIPT Ebay group is just about ready to begin the parade of

~*~ Best in Show ~*~

offerings for you on ebay.

The fun starts tomorrow and will continue all through the week w/ members listing their wonderful top quality handmade creations for your consideration!

Some will start tomorrow, and others will trickle in throughout the week, so be sure to do a TDIPT search each day this week.

We've decide together that rather than settle on one theme in particular, we would each like to create on a more individual level, w/ no one theme, but rather to make our favorite theme w/ the common thread being they are all Blue Ribbon worthy. Hmmm, isn't that what the TDIPT gals do already?

Anyway.....we hope you'll keep your eyes peeled, as we promise not to disappoint!

Click HERE to see all the works being offered by the members of TDIPT :)

June first Mercantile Updates

2010-05-31T22:37:00.000-04:00

It's time once again for the Artists who update on the first to update their Mercantile pages. These folks are working feverishly right now to bring you their most current offerings.

Here's a little peek.....

*Liberty Banner from Ivonne of The Crackling Crows*

*Patriotic Mice from Mandy of Fiddlestix Studios*

*Strawberry Sewing Companion from Patti of Winding Vine Designs*

*Flag Cupboard from Jen of The Prairie House Primitives*

Click *here* to see all of TDIPT's talented Artists.

2010-05-28T07:35:00.011-04:00

Rachael Kinnison

Diamond K Folk Art

We asked Rachael:

Where do you live?
I live just west of Trinidad Colorado, way down on the New Mexico/Colorado border on our little farm~ currently we have 4 dogs, 5 cats, 2 parakeets, fish and a pair of mice in the house, and outside 30 something chickens, a pair of mallard ducks, pair of pheasants, my only turkey, Mr Giving, semintal cattle, boer/kiko goats and honey bees

Can you tell us a little about your family?

I have been married to my husband Jayson for 18 years, and we have 4 children, age 14, 10, 8 and 4

Sweet Emma w/ fresh picked corn for supper

Do you work outside the home?

No, I own my own licensed and registered business, Diamond K Folk Art.

Do you have an hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

All of my hobbies ARE creating! Ha!! Well, not all I guess, I also own the Lady's Repository Museum, and keep early fashion and textiles from the late 17th c up to the 1860s. Children's fashion is my passion, but I also have nice example of adult lady's wear, especially pieces used for nursing.

Emma modeling 1830's clothing

What are some of your favorite things?

My favorites thing in the world??? that would have to be babies. If my health was better, and my husband willing, I would have liked to have had more than 4 children. To say I am looking forward to grand babies one day, is a huge understatement! Ohhh and peonies! I adore peonies, they are my favorite flower in the entire universe!

One of Rachaels Peonies

Do you collect anything in particular?

I am most definitely a collector! I have collected things since I was a small child~ heck, I even had a candy collection~ remember those bubblegum records??? yep, I had those, and little animals made out of hard cake icing, and I would save wrappers and packs of gum and cans of little mints~ I was weird what can I say. I kept them in a glass case even! I love to look for and collect bird nests that have blown out of trees and such~(be sure to put them in a bag and into the freezer, deep freezer, for a good month to kill any buggies). I also collect early antique wooden Grodner Tal dolls and painted basket purses

How did you get your start in your creative business? When?

Well I have always been creative. I made my first 'products' strictly to sell when I was about 9 or 10~ they were little pin cushions made from a half of a walnut shell, and I sold them door to door for a quarter a piece for my Christmas money~ and yes, I still have the very first one I made. (I suppose I would be classified as a very organized packrat.) I didn't really start selling my folk art though, until I got out of the Navy in 1998.

Tell us how you got your business name?
My business name, Diamond K Folk Art, comes from my signature, which is a diamond, with a k in the center

Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

My mother was and still is a very gifted and talented artist~ anything she does just comes natural~ that could be painting, or spinning wool into yarn~ she has always had the 'gift'...and she did pass that on to me. If I see something I want to make, I just do it. No patterns or instruction needed.....I can just figure it out. When I was in high school, I saw a really nice gothic bookcase in A Colonial Homes magazine....I thought it would be nice to have one, so I made me one(still have that too). Watching a few episodes of the 'Woodwright's Shop' on PBS, and what my Pa taught me, I just went and did it.

How do you keep ideas coming?

I have enough ideas in my head for 10 lifetimes. I have never had any problem with that! I sometimes keep a paper and pen by the bed so that I can write down the ideas that come to me~ I seem to get really good ones when Im sleeping, and will wake myself up so I wont forget it!

Who/what inspires you?

Everything inspires me, but nothing is more inspirational than early hand stitched textiles~ clothing, embroidery, linens~ I have always admired and appreciated the hours that went into stitching the most mundane things. This is why I ONLY stitch by hand, I never use a machine.

Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

I have a little 800 sq ft gallery that is built on to our house~ the display for my clothing and textiles is upstairs, and my flat storage and little studio is downstairs

How do you organize your supplies?

When I built my work station, I made cubbies everywhere! I keep all my modern reproduction fabrics on the bolt stacked on shelves just like in the quilt shops, the early ones are sorted by material~ silks have their own container, cottons, wools, fancy fabrics, etc etc. I have 30 or so cubbies above my work table that I keep purty near everything else in. I have a cubbie within arms reach that holds all my scissors~ nothing but that in that one cubbie, and there's probably 20 or so pair in there, hung up on nails.

Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

I love classical & rennaisance music.

Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?

YES! Would it be bad to not say which one? :)

What have you learned about marketing?

It is a never ending task!

What keeps you motivated?

I keep myself motivated, as I think I am my number one fan~ I LOVE to see what I come up with....I would say more times than not, what I originally have in mind, and what dolly wants to be, are two totally different things.

Do you sell you work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?

Right now I am not doing shows because I just cant physically travel...but perhaps in the future.

Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work?

I have been selected for the last 3 consecutive years~ 2008, 2009 & 2010, as one of America's Top Craftsmen by Early American Life Magazine, I have also been featured in Prims, by Stampington & Co.

Do you have any tips you would like to share?

Be true to yourself, and make your art for YOU. Don't make something 'to sell', or because you think that is what the trend is....If you make it for YOU, and the way YOU want it, everyone else will love it!

One of Rahael's favorite mottos by Elizabeth Porter Phelps

Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?

I was enlisted in the US Navy for 10 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician on the ground, and an Electronic Warfare Operator while Aircrew. I flew on EP-3 Aries II aircraft in VQ-1. Nearly all 10 years was served overseas in Guam, Philippines, Japan, Korea, and Italy...and I loved every second of it!

Thank you Rachael, it's been fun and very interesting to read all about you!

Mercantile Updates for May 15th

2010-05-14T21:44:00.002-04:00

Its TDIPT Mercantile updating time once again. Our talented Artist are updating their Mercantile pages as I type. Be sure to check out every page, you will not want to miss one single thing.

~ Check out what's in store for you from some of TDIPT's finest.~

~Gallop in the Garden Hooked Rug From My Glory Stars~

~Old Glory Cupboard Display Set From Big Brown Dog Primitives~

*Click ~here~ to se more work from our Amazing Artist*

2010-05-08T18:50:00.011-04:00

Carol Roll

Nostalgic Folk Art

We asked Carol:

Where do you live?

Ormond Beach Florida

Can you tell us a little about your family?

Well I’m married 23 years to Dan and have a son, Kipp who is about to graduate from Florida Southern College, oh and have 2 Boston Terriers, Henry and Archie

Do you work outside the home?

No unless you count the garden haha

Do you have an hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

Yes ! Love yard sales , antiquing and gardening.

Some of Carol's favorite things

What are some of your favorite things?

Geeze too many things I couldn’t pick just one.

Do you collect anything in particular?

My sickness is vintage Florida items and vintage Boston Terrier items but love anything that give me the feeling I’m in a different era.

How did you get your start in your creative business? When?

I started in 2004 after my antique business suffered after we had a four hurricanes in a row. Most people in the area were buying fencing ,roofs and food and not vintage or antique extras. We were out of electricity for several days so to keep my mind off the sweltering heat I started making paper mache figures . I had all these old blocks from my business and thought that they would serve as a perfect base for my creations. That was the start of Nostalgic Folk Art 2004. My neighbor wanted one and as did someone who she knew that had a shop and so on and so one. My mom has a bunch of my first year’s pieces and I die of embarrassment as they look like painted rice cakes glued on blocks. She won’t get rid of them no matter how I plead .

Sitting place in Carol's garden

Tell us how you got your business name?

Loving antiques since a child, and wanting my work to have that feel and blend in with antique decor, also really wanted a name that would tell the story of my figures and maybe invoke a sweet old memory, so after some thought came up with Nostalgic Folk Art, as they are folk and folk art. I put them together and viola Nostalgic Folk Art was created.

Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

My dad was artistic.

How do you keep ideas coming?

I don’t know they just come.

Who/what inspires you?

Old books and just talking about art with my friends who are artists as well. It’s really inspiring going to flea markets and antiquing.

Henry and Archie - Carol's 4 legged kids

Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

Yes we turned the 3rd bedroom into my studio

How do you organize your supplies?

hahaha

Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

Sometimes, um have a play list but it changes and it’s really a mix of many eras of music. Kipp is always saying, “Listen to this I think you’ll like it” and so that’s where a lot of my music comes from.

Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?

Yes depending on my mood or day

What have you learned about marketing

Well I’m not very good at that so can’t really offer anything cept joining TDIPT has been a smart move for sure.

What keeps you motivated?

This is my obsession and will do it until my hands can’t.

Carol's collection of vintage tins

Do you sell you work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?

Yes, they are listed on my site

Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work?

My work has been in our newspapers, but I was mentioned in Raw Magazine last year which is like an amazing Art Magazine. I mean it was a blip but it was in there. Just a few mentions in local things.Lets see awards, I have a few first place art show ribbons, but this past Feb. I got first in fine craft at the Mount Dora Art Show which I’m extremely proud of cause it’s a huge show.My work will be shown in Atlanta at Slotin Folk Fest this coming Aug.

One of Carol's original pieces...this one is called "Roller Queen"

Do you have any tips you would like to share?

I think the best thing is to mix your colors to make them your own.

Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?

I’m terrified of blood. I mean I will fall out! Ever since I was a lil girl I get what I call the bends when I see or hear about blood. What an ordeal to get a physical, sometimes I wait years to get blood work and see I’m getting all nervous talking about it and am beginning to ramble which I do when I get that way. Yikes next question!

Carol, thanks so very much for letting us put you in the Spotlight! It's been fun reading all about you!

Mercantile Offerings for May

2010-04-30T16:27:00.001-04:00

Where does the time go? The first of may is already upon us which means our very talented and amazing artists of TDIPT will be updating their Mercantile pages. Check out what's in store for you later this evening.

Primitive American Eagle~From Karin (Peanut) of Countryfolk Keepsakes

Moon Man & Polka Dot Angel~From Michelle (Tink) ,The Blackberry Briar

The Fisher Cat~From Annie, Annie Beez Folk Art

No Peein' Wood Sign ~From Pam of GoldieLoo Woodworks

To see more offerings from TDIPT's finest just click *here*.

TDIPT Mercantile Updates for April 15th

2010-04-14T23:03:00.000-04:00

Spring has sprung and the Moonies have begun...updating their Mercantile pages that is. Check out what's in store for you from our Artist who update on the 15th.

In my whimsy tree ~ From Wings & Paws Whimsies

George Washington~ From Nothing Plan By Jane

Olde Mother Angel and Dollie~ From 1897 House Primitives

Click ~Here~ to see more.

Everybody's Talkin bout the New Kid in Town.....

2010-04-06T08:09:00.009-04:00

and her name is "Prims"

Yep, the Prim/Folk Art fanciers finally have a wonderful magazine to call their own, and the folk artists have a place to showcase their work!

Prims is the newest magazine from the Stampington Company, and like all of their other publications, Prims is top of the line, and so tastefully done.

It's now available at bookstores, as well as Joanne Fabrics, or you can order yours directly from the company.

We are so very proud and happy to announce that several of the

TDIPT artists are honored to have had their work chosen to be featured in this very special premier issue that is now available to you, so be sure to pick yourself up a copy!

If you're a lover of prim folk art, then this mag is a must have!

You'll be delighted to see the works of all the very talented artists, and we would like to extend congratulations to all of the artists, and a special heartfelt congrats to our TDIPT gals who's work you'll find in this special premier issue:

Brady Bears Studio - Karen Brady Hammontree

Crowsnest Pass - Susan Pilotto

Diamond K Folk Art - Rachael Kinnison

Dogpatch Primitives - Patricia Kelly-Trevino

Mustard Seed Originals - Sharon Stevens

The Blackberry Briar - Michelle Sylvia

April First Updates

2010-03-31T23:05:00.002-04:00

Its that time again, time for the Firster's to update on the Mercantile. And believe me you won't want to miss a thing from our talented Artist this month. Here is just a sampling of what's in store this evening.

Pierre FromMustard Seed Originals

Needle Punch Sheep in the Sunflowers Candle Paddle From 2 Stichin

Olivia From Ragpatch Primitives

Folk Art Painting From Chickadee Primitives

Click here to see more.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE............

2010-03-21T16:16:00.003-04:00

The winners names have been picked in celebration of TDIPT's 3rd Birthday - and ten very lucky folk will be receiving notification via email shortly from the artist donating the gift!

First of all, we would like to take an opportunity to thank you so much for your support of our Mercantile as well as our TDIPT Blog. It's because of your support that we get to create and do what we love so much. Each of you are so important to us!

It brings us great joy to be able to pay back a tiny fraction of the appreciation we feel toward you!

So, without further adieu, let me announce our winners.

Please remember (this is the important stuff) you have until Wednesday, March 24, 2010 to respond to the email you will receive. Also, be sure to keep on eye on your spam / junk mail setting as well, in case the email accidentally gets filtered there!

Congratulations to the following:

Miss Gladys
Charlotte MacDiarmid
Debbie Mientus
Janice Moore-Petty
Ann Loftin
Denni Bowles
Country Wings in Phoenix
Tammy

Carolyn Overton
Lindsay Gontz

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We are celebrating your good fortune with you ♥

~ TDIPT Birthday Giveaway ~

2010-02-28T18:16:00.017-05:00

Let's get this Party started!

Happy Birthday to us, and welcome to our fantastic giveaway!

You can enter to win one of our fantastic handmade prizes, donated by the artists of TDIPT, simply by:

Purchase an item from the Mercantile this month. With each purchase you make we'll throw your name in the hat!

Leaving us a friendly comment here on this post

Become a follower of our blog

Post about our Birthday Giveaway on your blog, and let us know when you post a comment, and we'll add your name to that hat yet again!

We'll draw names on the evening of March 21st. The artists will attempt to contact you via email, so be sure to leave your email addy with us and be on the look out. We will post the names of the winners HERE on the blog as well. If we can;t reach you in a timely manner, we will draw a new name.

The artists will ship to the continental USA free of charge, but unfortunatly, we will have to ask those outside the US to pay for the shipping.

Thanks so very much for celebrating this special occasion with us!

Here are the Prizes

From Susie Designs

A lovely 5x5" canvas self framed picture of a Saltbox House
Hand painted, crackled, stained, sealed and signed by Sue.

From Mo of Wings and Paws Whimsies

A gorgeous set of Painted & Papered Stacking Damask Boxes w/ Tag

From Jan of Big Brown Dog Primitives

Primitive Blacky Crow Cupboard Tuck

Made using an illustration from a Vintage children's book, it measures 6.5" wide x 9.5" tall.

Fun to display on a shelf or in a cupboard, it includes designer paper, old scrabble letters, and carefully hand cut elements.

From Diane of Tallowberry Primitives

Prim Bunny Cupboard Tuck w/ Carrots

Measures 7x12"

From Don of The Shaker Style

A beautiful #3 Shaker Box, made of cherry and painted in a somewhat primitive style with black milk paint.

From Carol Roll of Nostalgoc Folk Art

A charming paper clay figure created from an old chocolate mold

From Susan of Prim and Proper Folks

A beautiful large Easter egg made from osnaburg, measuring 6" long by 4 1/2" wide. Aged and handpainted. Sealed w/ sparkle varnish. Once it was dry, Susan stitched the ribbon and flower in place then added one of her handmade hangtags.

From Michelle of The Blackberry Briar

An Oh-so-lucious Candle and Room Spray in her NEWEST SCENT Strawberry Fields. SURE to chase away Winter Blues!!!!

Birdcage NOT included

From Patty of Dogpatch Primitives

Oh so prim "Spring Chick" in vintage ticking overalls w/ glittered eggs.
Free standing on base. Just over 8" tall.

From Annette of Confounded Concoctions

A sweet and festive mixed media paper machdecorated trinket box. Measures 4-1/2 x 4 -1/2. Painted inside and out.

Be sure to check out the Mercantile !

Happy Birthday to Us!

2010-02-26T06:35:00.001-05:00

In just a few short days TDIPT Mercantile (not to be confused w/ the ebay group which turned 3 back in October) will be turning 3 years old!

It is hard to believe that this much time has passed since our doors opened and we made our debut onto the internet.

To help to show our appreciation to our wonderful customers and our loyal followers, we've celebrated each of our birthdays w/ a giveaway, as we will this year.

Some of our artists have created something special to be given away for this special occasion, and we will begin the festivities on the evening of Sunday February 28th at 10 PM ET, which is when the artists from the 1st of the month will have new offerings available on the Merc for your consideration.

We will draw names on March 21st.

How to enter for the drawing?

Purchase an item from the Mercantile and we will throw your name in the hat for each purchase you make
If you're on our mailing list to receive our TDIPT Newsletter, you will be entered in to win, so if you're not already receiving it, be sure to sign up on the Merc or on our TDIPT blog.
If you are a follower of our blog you will be entered in to win. If you don't already follow us, be sure to sign up.

We hope you will join us to celebrate such an important occasion!

Look for us on Ebay!

2010-02-16T07:57:00.002-05:00

Yep, that's right.....TDIPT is having a group launch!

"Birds of a Feather....Create Together!"

We are long overdue for a group launch, and the excitement amongst the TDIPT artists is building!

Starting this Sunday, Feb 21st, watch for the parade of prims to make it's debut on ebay! Artwork from members will trickle in during that week ....so be sure to check back each evening so you won't miss anything.

Just type TDIPT into your search box, sit back and enjoy, and don't forget to pack a drool bib!

See you then!

February 15th Updates

2010-02-14T21:28:00.007-05:00

The very talented TDIPT Artist are busying themselves right now updating their Mercantile pages. You will find many of Artist will have offerings throughout this month for our ~Hearts for Haiti~. The proceeds of their offerings going to the victims of Haiti.
Here is a preview of what's on the Mercantile for the February 15th updates.

Peabody~From Cruds-and-Whey

Love Immortal~from Diamond K Folk Art

Please click ~here~ to see more.

TDIPT Presents......

2010-02-11T08:33:00.007-05:00

Suzanne Davis

Peartree Primitives

We asked Suzanne:

Where do you live?

Boise, Idaho

Can you tell us a little about your family?

My husband and I have been married for almost 23 years. Before we had our boys, I taught 5th grade while my husband completed his degree(s). We have two boys 17 and 14, both are on the autism spectrum and after a few years in traditional school, we decided that home school was a better alternative for their education....plus it allows me to stay home and paint!

Do you work outside the home?

"Home school" isn't done all at "home"....we are always running around town, so I guess I do work outside my home!

Do you have any hobbies/what do you like to do when you're not creating?

I love to read. Lately though, the books I've been reading are required reading for my boys' classes! But I usually read for pleasure before bed every night, and some books I enjoy are reference books of portraiture or early American art that may inspire my next painting.

What are some of your favorite things?

Antique shops, thrift stores, old book stores, ironstone, pewter, anything 18th/19th century.

Do you collect anything in particular?

No,.....well, maybe frames?! I look for frames that inspire my next painting....or future paintings. I'll find them in antique shops or thrift stores....I usually find too many! So, I guess that could be considered a "collection", or an "addiction"?? Not sure!

How did you get your start in your creative business? When?

When we bought our first home, it needed some "character", so I taught myself to stencil and experimented with faux painting. Friends saw our home and asked if I would help with theirs, and after awhile, that developed into a small word-of-mouth business. Eventually, I was hired by a custom home builder as a paint option for the final stages of a custom home build. After a few years of working with a corporation, I became disenchanted with the business end of things and wanted to be more "creative" than "productive". So, I started painting on canvas and selling my art through a local furniture shop in our area.Since we've moved from the area, the owner has sold her shop and I've started selling online. I've had my own online shop for about two years now.

Tell us how you got your business name?

My husband came up with the name "Pear Tree Primitives" when we were working together making primitive furnishings for the little furniture shop. I like it because it sounds "early American", and primitive to me just means "untrained"....which I am!

Is it in the genes......does anyone in your family, now or generations before create?

My Dad painted a little when I was growing up, and he enjoys woodworking. My aunt, (his sister) is a very talented artist who paints for her own enjoyment. My older son is a budding artist and really enjoys drawing and sculpting.

How do you keep ideas coming?

There are so many examples of "folk art" and primitive portraiture from the past that I am always finding new inspiration for my next painting!

Who/what inspires you?

I love trying new mediums, surfaces and techniques and this keeps me interested and inspired. The fun for me is learning how a surface responds to paint, and how well I can "try" to master it. I've recently tried my hand at painting miniature portraits, and have found it to be a lot of fun.

Do you have a studio or do you work in different parts of your home?

I have a closet where I keep most of my supplies. When I'm painting or creating, it is usually at our kitchen table.

How do you organize your supplies?

In my closet I have my supplies organized in clear plastic containers. So, when I'm ready to work with a certain medium, I can just pull out a plastic container and set it all out.

Do you like to listen to music while you work, if so what ?

My husband is the Music Director at our church, and he has his doctorate in Music (Choral Directing), so through his work and studies we've acquired quite a collection of music.But,most of the time, working quietly is nice....if I can get it!

Do you have a favorite piece of art that you've created?
My favorite piece of art is always the one I'm working on at the time!

What have you learned about marketing?

This one is difficult for me. I don't spend a lot of time on "marketing my art" right now because my main focus is to home school my boys. But, being able to join a group of sellers with a common interest, like TDIPT, has been a wonderful way learn about online business and meet customers as well.

What keeps you motivated?

Painting is a creative outlet that I truly enjoy. So, the "motivation" is in the joy of creating. It also is motivating and brings me joy when customers are pleased with their purchases. Their words of encouragement and their support motivate me to continue offering my art online. It makes me happy to know that some of my paintings are now in someone's home that appreciates the early American style as much as I do.

Do you sell you work in any shops, or will you be in any upcoming shows?

Not at this time. My work is updated the 1st of each month online, unless I add to my online website and Etsy shop during the month.

Has your work been published in any magazines? Have you received any type of awards/recognition for your work?

A few years ago when I was doing decorative painting, I received my certification in stenciling through an organization called the Stencil Artisan League, Inc. (SALI) for stenciling on walls and fabric. But most recently, I was very honored to be selected for the 2009 Holiday Directory in Early American Life magazine for my painted silhouettes.

•Do you have any tips you would like to share?

If you are "inspired" to try something creative...go for it! You never know what hidden talents you may discover in yourself. ( I might also add, don't give up after the first try! It may take some practice to see progress.)

•Tell us something about yourself that may surprise us?
After college, I traveled with a band. I was going to teach 8th grade English in my hometown, but the opportunity to sing (alto) with a Christian band called "Eternity" opened up, and I jumped on the bus! Literally! I traveled for two years with fifteen other members of the group, and I met my husband when we played at his church. He was the Youth/Music pastor and had scheduled our concert......it was "love" at first sight! :)

Thank you Suzanne, it's been fun getting to know you better and seeing you in the Spotlight!

Are ya ready for some football?

2010-02-06T10:56:00.003-05:00

Looking for something extra yummy, and a bit different from the standard seven layer bean dip to serve up at your Superbowl Party? Why not give these simple and delicious appetizers a try? They're super deelish, and easy as can be!

Feta Cheese Foldovers

Ingredients

8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
1 egg, beaten
1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 teaspoon water

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a small bowl, blend feta cheese, green onions, and egg. Cut pastry into 12 (3 inch) squares. Place a mounded tablespoon of feta mixture in the center of each square. Moisten edges with water, and fold pastry over filling to form a triangle. Press edges together firmly with a fork to seal. Lightly brush pastries with the egg yolk mixture.

Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

To Dwell In Primitive Thymes

February Updates

January 15th Updates

Happy New Year! TDIPT Mercantile updates tonight!

Christmas at Winding Vine

December 15th Updates

A LITTLE CHRISTMAS AT OUR HOUSE~bayrayschild

December 1st Updates

Join us on EBAY!!

And the winners are.........

TDIPT Mercantile Open House & GiveAway

Coming soon......

October 15th Updates

TDIPT October Updates

TDIPT's spread in the newest issue of Prims magazine!

New September Offerings

New for September 1st

*Updates From The Moonies*

Mercantile Updates for August

Mercantile updates for The 15th

First Of July Updates

June 15th Updates

June Updates

A Star Spangled Summer & Mercantile Updates.

TDIPT Mercantile updates for the first of May

April 15th Updates

The House That Built Me

"Tonight's THE night!"

And The Winners are....

TDIPT Birthday Giveaway

February 15th updates

The House That Built Me

The House That Built Me 4

The House That Built Me 3

The House That Built Me 2

It's Update time again!

TDIPT presents.......

A Happy New Year ! Mercantile Updates are here!

Merry Christmas!

Tis the Season!

December 15th "Moonies" updates.

December 1st Updates

Pineapple Casserole

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!

Join the Celebration!

It's a TDIPT Holiday Celebration!

Updates from the Moonies!

The Spotlight's On Hot Metal Mama

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

*October First Updates*

September 15th Updates

September 1st Updates

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

TDIPT Mercantile August 15th Updates

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

August first TDIPT Mercantile Updates

How Does Your Garden Grow?

TDIPT Mercantile Updates for July 15th

How Does Your Garden Grow ?

July 1st Updates

June 15th Mercantile Updates

We're havin a LAUNCH!!

*June first Mercantile Updates*

Mercantile Updates for May 15th

Mercantile Offerings for May

TDIPT Mercantile Updates for April 15th

Everybody's Talkin bout the New Kid in Town.....

April First Updates

DRUM ROLL PLEASE............

~ TDIPT Birthday Giveaway ~

Happy Birthday to Us!

Look for us on Ebay!

February 15th Updates

TDIPT Presents......

Are ya ready for some football?

Updates From The Moonies

October First Updates

June first Mercantile Updates