allsorts

Allsorts o' something

Here's an issue I've pondered for a long time... it feels like a seismic shift to me, but it's time to broach an awkward topic. In as many years as I've kept up Allsorts, it has never paid for itself, much less earned anything beyond that. I always thought of this as my creative outlet, and an additional bit of promotion for my illustration. And I hesitated to sell my patterns or designs, partly because of a lack of confidence, but mostly due to some people out there who chastise anyone who blogs for "commercial" purposes. I've never felt that way myself, I applaud the fantastic bloggers who have nurtured their blogs into thriving enterprises. How do you feel about it?

One way or the other... here is me dipping my toe into the pool (even though I'm wearing floaties and an inner tube).

Ever since I saw the fantastic book shop my friend Yvonne created with Amazon aStore, I've been excited about doing something like that for children's books. So I'd humbly like to present:

Even though it only exists in cyberspace, in my mind it feels just like a cozy little shop with low, jumbled bookcases, big comfy chairs to sit in, and storytime with cocoa and cookies. Books have always been a big part of my family's life, and with the many other things pulling on our children's attention, they remain a wonderful way to stay connected... to each other, and to the important ideas that often get lost in the craziness of modern life.

With Allsorts Book House, it's just the same as ordering from Amazon, but I get a teensy commission if you order through my store. I've spent quite a while searching out books that are bright, colorful and fun. There are books for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and special sections for playtime, arts and crafts and timeless children's books among others. There's a link over in my right sidebar, I'd be very happy if you popped over for a visit!

And thanks.

Cheers,

Jenny

ps - I just got a comment asking if I illustrated any of the books in my shop. Interestingly enough... I didn't include any of my own books. Although I've illustrated quite a few, the sad fact is that many are out of print, others were for educational publishers and aren't sold on Amazon, and the rest... well, it felt funny to put my own up there with so many amazing books. Maybe someday...

Swinging bunny

Amy's new mailorder project is four adorable papercut patterns. I love that it's downloadable, which works well for my gottadoitnow mentality. There's also a really yummy sounding recipe for some peanut butter and chocolate bar thingies that I swear must be illegal in several states. In my usual manner I missed the early boat(s), so this is the first mailorder I've participated in. That girl is a creative genius, the ideas just keep on coming.

I did a papercut project a few eons ago with fabric inserted behind the cut paper so I tried a photoshop version of the bunny image to see what it would look like. I love it! If I have some time I'd like to make one with real materials... what a concept, eh?

Anyhoo... thanks Amy!

Cheers,

Jenny

Happy now

That's better... (thank you Photoshop)

Cheers,

Jenny

Tea vs espresso

I'm having tea today...

And someone's not happy about it.

Don't worry, I'll have espresso tomorrow, I promise!

Cheers,

Jenny

Allsorts year in pictures 07

Happy Shiny New Year 2008! I'll replay the tradition I started last year with a look back at the year through pictures. Here are some of my favorite snaps from Allsorts in 2007.

In what appears to have been a theme, I began the year with an addiction to one particular color...

February saw that theme interpreted in the in the infamous spool and swatch tree...

In March I scored these vintage treasures at the quilt show...

I made the world's longest scrunchie fabric flower garland in April...

I think May brought out my feminine side...

A mini quilt in June...

Currants in July...

Easton arrived in August...

Apparently I was so enraptured with Scandinavian blogs in September I didn't pick up my camera at all.  And October, well this one is the only one I even halfway liked...

November was all about gearing up for Christmas! There were clogs...

and a taste for red and aqua...

and last month was of course all about Christmas!

So there you have it, 2007 was a fun year around here. And I have great plans for 2008! Lots of projects swirling around my head, so stand back!

And I can't close this post without getting all mushy and expressing my deepest, most sincere appreciation for YOU! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your comments, emails and so much warmth and support through the last twelve months and beyond. Y'all are truly the best and I am honored and humbled by your generosity. Many many thanks, and best wishes for the coming year.

Cheers and love,

Jenny