Under the Umbrella

Happy Holidays from Isabell's Umbrella

2011-11-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again when I get a little sappy -- where I reflect upon my blessings, and this year I am feeling richly blessed. One of the many blessings that I am so grateful for is YOU! Yes, YOU! Isabell's would be nothing without your support and love.

There are a few special things I have in store this holiday season -- first I wanted to extend to you a small token of my appreciation by offering you 25% off your next purchase at Isabell's Umbrella. To take advantage of this offer, please enter HAPPYHOLIDAYS2011 at checkout. This offer is available Friday, November 25th thru Monday, December 5th.

Second, when you spend $25 at the Shop, you will receive a FREE MAGNET OF YOUR CHOICE (please make a note in the message to seller field upon checkout with your selection).

And lastly, we have extended our FREE SHIPPING offer on our Christmas cards -- this offer will now be good until December 31st.

A few other specials will "pop-up" over the next few weeks, so be sure to stop by our Facebook page to keep up to date.

I am very lucky to have such a wonderful group of follower!

I wish you the very best this Holiday Season!

ps. We have been very busy these last few weeks gearing-up for this holiday season, and I am so excited about the most recent shop update. Here is a little sneak peak of the 12+ items just added...

2012 Calendar!

2011-11-07T23:18:00.000-08:00

Yippie! Hooray! It is finally finished, and I have to say it is pretty awesome! I still need to take photos, but with the time change and the shrinking daylight hours, it will take another day or two before I am able to take and post a few, but don't worry, I will be sure to share them here. I guess for now, you will have to just take my word for it when I say that the calendars are completely cool.

Oh yeah, they are now available in the shop too!

Christmas Cards

2011-11-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year... the first snow, sweaters and hot chai and cocoa... I have been busy these last few weeks -- putting the last finishing touches on the 2012 Calendar (so excited about these), creating a few new designs for bookclips and magnets as well as designing these...

TaDa! New Christmas Cards that are now available in the shop for pre-order (shipping November 14th). And, do you want to hear something awesome??? If you order before November 14th, you will also get FREE SHIPPING!! Pretty cool huh?

Also new the shop are these adorable gift tags.

They are available in two different versions -- one digital, meaning you can print as many as you would like, and another printed, beautiful packaged version with twine. Either way, they are the perfect addition to your holiday gifts this season.

Well, better get back -- the calendar is waiting:)

Bookclips

2011-10-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

I just completed three designs for my new bookclips, I love how they turned out. There are a few people on my Christmas list (I know, I hate to bring it up, but it has been on my mind for a few weeks now), that are avid readers -- what a perfect gift huh?

The new line of bookclips are now available in the shop.

You and Me

2011-10-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

I married the bestest guy ever. Not only is he a wonderful father, but he is also my bestest friend.

The Girls Are Back

2011-10-11T19:43:00.001-07:00

Available again in the shop!

Mister Whale & Friend

2011-10-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

Now available in the shop!

Whale Watching

2011-10-06T23:19:00.001-07:00

Watch out for a new note card set coming this way.

Utah is Beautiful

2011-10-02T13:02:00.001-07:00

I took this photo a few weeks ago, and completely forgot about it until today when I was uploading some photos. I am so grateful I live in this beautiful valley so I can see sights like this everyday.

Just In Case You Needed Some Cheering Up

2011-09-29T23:00:00.000-07:00

I'm a dork -- yes, I will readily admit it from time to time. When I am doodling, sometimes I will draw something that will make me laugh -- today was one of those days. I had to bring this guy to life tonight before I turned in. He was the best way to end a stressful day.

Hello Aunt E!

2011-09-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Fabric Wall Art

2011-09-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

Hello! I just wanted to pop in to share some great news with you...
Isabell's Umbrella has another fun way of decorating your child's room -- FABRIC WALL ART - YIPPIE!! We have two new styles available (shown below), with more designs on the way.

Quinton the Quail - Approx. 8"x18"

Totally Narly - 28"x18"

I have been so anxious to share these with you -- I hope you like them as much as I do! As always, you can now find these in the shop!

First Mate

2011-09-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

Owl Party - New Rub-On Decals

2011-08-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

New to the shop today! For your calendar, note cards, envelopes, diaries and more -- mark those important dates, add a little charm to well... anything! It even includes an adorable mini popsicle stick.

THANK YOU!

2011-08-16T12:10:00.001-07:00

WOW, these last few weeks have been a whirlwind! With late nights and last minute preparations for Craft Lake, I have had scarcely any time for little else. I had high hopes to keep in touch with everyone here, but time just flew away -- I'm sorry!

Craft Lake was a wonderful event, I have the BEST customers! With most shows I participate in, I don't get to know or thank the individuals who help support Isabell's Umbrella, which is sad -- this is one reason why I love doing Craft Lake. To be there, talking with you as you share your kind words of encouragement and ideas. I love it! I come away feeling such gratitude (for you) and have a renewed sense of vigor for Isabell's Umbrella.

So, with all this said, I wanted to again thank YOU for all of your support! I wish I could tell each of you in person how much your support means to me, and to give each of you a hug. Your support allows me to do something I love, to grow (personally and professionally), and to meet such wonderful people (you). I know I have said this before, but I will say it again, Isabell's Umbrella would be nothing with out YOU.

Hugs,
Ashley

Switching It Up

2011-07-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

Wanted to work on something a little different tonight so I dug out my porcelain paints and created this guy for Craft Lake. I really like him, it will be difficult seeing him go.

A continuation...

2011-07-10T21:57:00.001-07:00

Dreaming of Vintage Sailor Tattoos

2011-07-06T22:49:00.000-07:00

My Lucky Lapel

2011-07-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

A sweet little something to add to your lapel, bag, sweater, work tag or anywhere else you can pin a little sunshine -- this little guy will stick by your side. New to the shop!

Quiet Time & Meet Mr Robinson

2011-07-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

I have to admit something... I've been failing miserably at my goal of drawing/doodling/illustrating everyday for the past few months -- I am sure most of you could guess this since I haven't really shared anything here in quite some time. Truthfully, I really miss it -- it is stress releasing, fun, and satisfying.

A few night ago I decided that I needed to make time for this important exercise again, so I have instituted "quiet time" just before my kids bedtime. We all gather in the kids bedroom where they are allowed to read, draw, or play quietly. It really sets the mood before the kids bedtime; it allows me to spend more time with them; and allows time for that vital exercise of drawing each day. So simple, I don't know why I haven't thought about it before.

I am hoping that I can once again share these illustrations/drawings/doodles with you, it may not be daily, but I promise they will become a more regular treat here once again.

ps. Mr. Robinson is the result of our first "quiet time". I am sure we will see more of him in the future.

Feathered Friends

2011-06-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

These have been in the shop for about a week or so, but I forgot to share them here -- ta da!! Another lovely set of EAD co-branded stickers!

Chalk Art Festival

2011-06-20T11:50:00.001-07:00

On our way this weekend to a lovely friends gallery showing, we stopped by the Gateway Mall to purchase a new set of flip-flops for Mason since his strap broke on the way there. I had forgotten that the Chalk Art Festival was going on -- we were so pleased that the little shoe emergency brought us that way.

What amazing artists! It was so cool to sit there watching it happen. It kind-of breaks my heart to know that these beautiful creations will just be washed away one day. I am glad that I had my camera in tow so I could at least capture a few of my favorites.

Quilt Market 2011 - Part 2

2011-06-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more photos from Quilt Market. I can't tell you how wonderful it was -- just looking at these photos again brings back the excitement I felt. It was awesome seeing some of my very favorite designers work in person (before it was released in stores). I literally was bobbing up and down on my balls of my feet when I came across Sarah Jane's beautiful booth and when I spotted Helen Dardik's fabric by P&B. It was a dream come true, and I hope one day, that I too can be included along side these super talented artists at Quilt Market.

Super Duper Exciting News!

2011-06-13T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have some super exciting news that I have been dying to share with you for weeks now, are you ready? EAD Design + Isabell's Umbrella are co-branding! This means that a whole new range of products will be available featuring some of my very favorite designs. For example, these adorable set of Stickerz called Kawaii Friends.

I can't wait to share more of the projects I have in the works, and I'd love suggestions on what you would like to see too!

Stop by EAD Designs to see the full range of products they have to offer!

ps. Kawaii Friend Stickerz are also available in the shop:)

To Do List

2011-05-31T17:21:00.000-07:00

Done and done... and look even the gnome is smiling.

Pencil from JetPens.com

Quilt Market 2011 - Part 1

2011-05-14T21:09:00.001-07:00

I'm feeling pretty lucky today, can you guess why? I'll give you a little hint, it has to do with the header above... yep, I was able to attend quilt market today with my wonderful Madre, and boy am I feeling overwhelmed with inspiration!

What a wonderful experience it was to meet such talented designers. While I was there, I made a point to stop by Sarah Jane's booth, and can I say I was blown away by its lovely decor, bright and cheery design, and of course by Sarah Jane's sweet personality! Her new line of fabric is adorable -- I know it will fly off shop shelves. Not to mention, Sarah Jane is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet!

Here are a few pics I took while there (more to come!)...

Red Balloon

2011-04-28T22:29:00.001-07:00

It has been a while since I shared a daily illustration with you. I love the crooked smile.

brideblu feature

2011-04-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to thank Cat at BrideBlu for including our little hedgehog magnet in her Monday feature. I am honored to have been included!

I love nice people, and I especially love finding new blogs that offer daily inspiration and a wonderful diversion from that ever growing task list. Thank you again BrideBlu!

Puppy Travel

2011-04-17T22:28:00.000-07:00

A little something I have been working on tonight for a client.

Nice & Fresh

2011-04-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

A quick follow-up on the studio cleaning progress.
1. new pin-up boards for inspiration, mock-ups, notes, etc.
2. my wonderful husband who helped me hang up everything
3. a new collage of artwork -- my favorite is the original Helen Dardik painting
4. a very clean work surface, I can't tell you how long this has been needed
5. a clean and well organized bookcase housing some of my very favorite magazines and books

Sorry the photo isn't that great, but it at least it gives a picture of the studio. The space is nice, fresh, and it's got me ready to start working!

ps. A special thank you to my husband for all of his handy work! He is seriously the best a girl could ever wish for!

Spring Cleaning

2011-04-11T20:50:00.001-07:00

The studio needs some much needed spring cleaning, so I thought I would dive right in tonight. I typically forget to take "before" and "after" photos, so I thought I would snap a few before I forgot. I am hoping later this week I will be able to share with you the "after" photos. Maybe this will help keep me motivated to clean it entirely.

See you soon!

Fabric

2011-04-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Bad news... I didn't make it into the semi-finalist round for Project Salvage. Although I am a little bummed, I am actually really excited to expand this "line" and try again (taking a lesson from my husband and Carrie Ryan). So, what do you think? If you were looking for baby boy fabric, would you consider Whales with mustaches?

Carrie Ryan & James Dashner

2011-03-30T21:14:00.001-07:00

Tonight I was fortunate to go to Carrie Ryan's signing of her new book The Dark & Hollow Places. She spoke for a few minutes before the signing about her series, how she came up with the idea, what characteristics she wanted to develop in her characters, and the journey of becoming a published author. It was awesome! If you have not read her books, I highly recommend them!

I hate sharing photos of myself, especially since I always look like I have squirrel cheeks, but I can't resist tonight.

Carrie Ryan and a very excited me.

And to top off the evening, there was also a handful of other talented authors there such as Ally Condie and James Dashner (two of my favorites). Man, tonight I was in author heaven.

James Dashner and another picture of a very excited me.

Simply Utah!

2011-03-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much Leslie from Simply Utah for the kind feature! Check out the article here. Psst... there is a special offer I promise you don't want to miss.

Special Promotion

2011-03-16T17:00:00.001-07:00

My husband and I have a strong love of Japanese culture and art. We have had some pretty somber talks lately about the situation in Japan -- my heart goes out to the wonderful people there. What an example they have been during this time of crisis. When looting and fights breakout in an area where a natural disaster has happened, the Japanese people are working together, strengthening each other, and setting an example of how we should act if we find ourselves in a similar situation.

I find myself wanting to do what I can to help too. Beginning today through the end of April, I will be donating 50% of all proceeds from my "Asian" related items purchased from the shop to the American Red Cross. What a wonderful time to pick-up some extra stationery or magnets, and help out those who are half a world away. Domo arigato gozaimasu!

Craft Lake City!

2011-03-15T12:20:00.001-07:00

Sock It To Me

2011-03-03T17:04:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have a secret... I play roller derby for the Salt City Derby Girls. Lack of posting is mainly due to my time spent doing roller derby now, but don't worry, I am great at getting things back in balance, so I will be posting more often again soon enough.

Anyways, one great thing about derby (there are so many great things about it, I am sure I will share some of these with you later), are the socks. I love knee socks. I have for years. So when I came across the posting by Print & Pattern about Sock It To Me's Design Contest, I had to participate. Wouldn't it be awesome to design socks?

Anyways, I wanted to share with you my design -- I am keeping my fingers crossed. Wish me luck!

Bow Wow!

2011-02-14T18:45:00.000-08:00

Here they are, the magnets I promised I would share with you. And good news -- they are now available in the shop!

Magnets Continued

2011-02-09T20:02:00.000-08:00

Another adorable magnet heading to the shop! I have a few more to share with you beginning next week -- they are equally adorable, just in case you were wondering. Have a wonderful weekend!

New Magnets

2011-02-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

New to the shop!

2011 Calendar

2011-02-01T22:04:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite projects that I look forward to each year -- MHTN's yearly calendar!

When approaching this year's calendar, sustainability was the principal driver in the design. I achieved this by using rapidly renewable materials (plyboo calendar base), as well as paper that not only contains 100% post consumer waste (PCW), but is also certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). To top this all off, all printing was done using vegetable and soy-based inks, with lower levels of VOCs than traditional petroleum-based inks to reduce harmful carbon emissions.

I love the overall look and feel -- by far one of my favorite calendar designs I have done to this date.

For a Special Little Lady

2011-01-31T22:58:00.001-08:00

I created this invitation for a special little lady a while back, but hadn't gotten around to take a photo of it. I loved that Kora wanted a skunk themed party -- she is my kind of girl!

Ardent Sparrow

2011-01-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

About two years ago, Rebecca from Ardent Sparrow contacted me and asked if I would be interested in helping her create an identity for her blossoming etsy shop/jewelry business. Today, it is still one of my favorite projects I have had the opportunity to work on. Rebecca is one of those dream clients -- so kind and open to ideas -- it was a real pleasure working with her. We created a logo, business cards, mailing label, and a banner/avatar for her shop.

A little over a month ago, Rebecca contacted me again and asked if I would be interested in freshening up her current identity. Of course, I couldn't say no -- I didn't want to pass on the opportunity to work with her again. And so, as it goes, here is the finished product! I love the new look. It is fresh, yet vintage -- exactly the same words I would use to describe her beautiful jewelry -- take a look, I am sure you will agree!

Count Your Many Blessings, Name Them One By One

2011-01-23T20:05:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had one of those experiences where you completely and overwhelming thankful for a particular blessing that you may just take for granted? I had an experience like this a few days ago.

I was on my way home, waiting at an intersection for my light to turn, when I saw an older lady crossing the street. She was walking with a pole stretched out in front, so I knew immediately that she was blind. As I watched her cross, I noticed that she started heading down the hill, at a slight angle instead of keeping a straight path that would allow her to cross safely. She stopped at a drive way, where she spent sometime feeling around, I am sure trying to get her bearings. As she stood there my heart began to break for her.

As soon as our light turned green, I pulled over, jumped out, and helped guide her to her destination. She mentioned that she did not remember an incline on the particular street, and I mentioned that she was just a few feet from her destination. She was a very sweet lady.

I was very grateful to have been there that day for two reasons. One, that I could help her. And two, to remind myself of how profoundly blessed I am -- specifically for my sight.

Now, I do not have perfect eye sight -- with out my contacts or glasses, I can't identify a face more than ten feet away, but I am so blessed to live in a time where this can be so easily corrected.

I can see my children grow, laugh, and make silly faces.
I can marvel at the beauty of this world, of Utah -- my home, the mountains I have grown so fond of.
I can create, illustrate, write, and enjoy the beautiful creations of others.

I am blessed to have two eyes that can see.

Mini Shop Update!

2011-01-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! Now that the festivities are over, and I can now begin to focus on Isabell's Umbrella once again, I have a few new items to share with you that are now available in the shop! Have a wonderful day!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-27T21:46:00.001-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! I just wanted to hop in to wish all of you a wonderful New Year, and share a little something special headed to the shop in 2011!

Be safe, and many wishes for a happy, healthy New Year -- you are the best!

Thankful

2010-11-25T23:39:00.000-08:00

As I reflect upon this past year, and the blessings that are so richly bestowed upon me, I have a profound appreciation for all of YOU! Isabell’s Umbrella would be nothing without your kindness, support and love. Thank you! I can’t express my gratitude enough.

In the true spirit of this holiday season, I wanted to extend to you a small token of my appreciation by offering you 25% off your next purchase at Isabell’s Umbrella (www.isabellsumbrella.etsy.com). To take advantage of this offer, please enter THANKYOU2010 at checkout. This offer is available Friday, November 26th thru Tuesday, November 30th.

Thank you again for all of your support! I wish you all a beautiful holiday season full of warmth, happiness, and joy!

Warmest Wishes,
Ashley, Owner/Illustrator

Looking for Something Fun to Do This Weekend

2010-11-19T12:43:00.001-08:00

Hope to see you there!

Mister Bear continued...

2010-11-14T14:39:00.000-08:00

I couldn't just let this guy sit on the back burner -- now you can pick up your own set of Mister Bear note cards. Printed on a creamy stock, and paired with a canary yellow envelope, each card is hand printed using my trusty Gocco.

Also, I have added a new set of gift tags, just in time for the holidays! They are perfect for spiffing up the greatest gifts -- they are handy, inexpensive, and just plain cute.

Both items will be available in the shop shortly!

Mister Bear

2010-11-09T20:20:00.000-08:00

Does he work at the bank? Is he trying to sale you a set of knives? Has he been hired to tail you? Whatever it is, this bear is all business.

Snow Days

2010-11-08T20:54:00.000-08:00

Remember those awesome "snow days" growing up where it snowed so much that school was closed? I am wishing for one of those right now...

Happy Holidays #2

2010-11-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

I have been away far too long. I am staying busy with preparing for the upcoming holiday season, and putting the last finishing touches on a few new products, which bring me to these...

TA DAH! Sweet little hairpins to hold those stray locks in place. Look for these beginning tomorrow (Tuesday) in the shop!

Happy Holidays!

2010-10-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

Cassette Tape Gift Tags - 6 tags w/twine - $3.00

Christmas Rub-On Transfers - $4.00

Some new items are heading to the shop this week, and I am so excited to begin sharing them with you. Here are two new items that I will be adding tomorrow (Monday) -- this holiday season is going to rock!!

Squirrel On Sled

2010-10-19T22:20:00.000-07:00

Can you believe October is already half-way over? Where has the time gone?

Fruitcake

2010-10-18T09:12:00.001-07:00

Now available in the shop! Stay tuned this week as I will be adding some sweet stuff just in time for the holidays!

A Little Doll is On Her Way

2010-10-14T21:47:00.000-07:00

Hello again! I just wanted to share with you one of the projects I have been working on lately. I am so lucky to work with some of the sweetest people out there! This one is based off of my original matryoshka birthday party invitations -- just tailored a bit for one very special baby shower -- and paired with a lovely pale pink envelope.

Stopping by to say hello!

2010-10-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Just popping in to say hello, and apologize for the long absence. I have been so caught up in deadlines lately that I have had to extend my "short" hiatus. With deadlines wrapping up, I will be returning shortly. I can't wait to share with you the fun projects I have been working on!

You're Groovy

2010-09-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a little nostalgic today. I am thinking they would make an awesome note card set -- what do you think?

Mixing things up...

2010-09-27T21:00:00.001-07:00

I am doing something different this week, so I will be taking a short hiatus. I will return soon and share with you the outcome of my adventures. In the time being, I hope you enjoy this little guy:)

Squid

2010-09-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

This was me today

2010-09-21T22:08:00.001-07:00

For some reason work (meaning my day job at the architectural firm) has been freezing cold lately! I swear it was 50 degrees inside, and 87 degrees out. I was dreaming of a delicious Hot Chocolate with Soy from Starbucks all day. Tomorrow I will have to bring my mittens.

Unicorns & Rainbows

2010-09-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

Currently the thoughts that crowd my daughter's head.

14 Weeks and 2 Days

2010-09-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

My mind is starting to switch gears as I begin to plan my holiday schedule, and the new items I have begun dreaming up. This year is going to rock! I promise I will have several new goodies just in time for the holiday gift giving season, as well as special offers for my wonderful followers that I am so grateful for (You gals/guys are WONDERFUL!).

So, I am sorry for the reminder that the holidays are fast approaching, but I believe it is never too early to start planning.

Best Wishes!

Full of Hot Air

2010-09-15T22:38:00.001-07:00

Panda Party

2010-09-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

Dreaming...

2010-09-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

about hot air ballooning today. I have never been, but have always wanted to -- it would be amazing!

Thank You

2010-09-08T22:27:00.000-07:00

A new design arriving in the shop soon. I just can't get enough of this little bird.

"Whale"come Back

2010-09-07T22:34:00.000-07:00

Daily illustrations!! Another installment in my fancy whale series.

Something to Celebrate, continued

2010-09-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

Here is another project I had the opportunity to work on this last week. The theme of the party is "birds" so why not a bird in a party hat?

Blessings

2010-09-01T22:32:00.001-07:00

I am loving this "cheese" face from my soon to be 1 year old. He is my little sunshine!

Something to Celebrate

2010-09-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been spent working on deadlines and this adorable birthday invitation for little Valentina. I loved working on this project. It is so satisfying watching an idea play out -- it honestly is the best reward, one of the reasons why I love my job so much.

At The Zoo

2010-08-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

A little something I have been working on the last few nights -- I am thinking they would make great baby announcements. What do you think?

Something to Buzz About

2010-08-24T20:52:00.001-07:00

Predicament

2010-08-23T22:33:00.000-07:00

Quinton the Quail Always Wanted to Fly
While Stuck on the Ground, He'd Look to the Sky
One Day in His Sadness, Just Around Noon
He Tied Himself Up to Three Large Balloons
He Went Up and Up, What Joy He Had Found!
But then His Heart Sank... How'd He Get Down?

Sorry for the delay in posting, I needed to give myself a break for a while and recover from the busy past weeks. I hope you enjoy this little poem -- my husband is a genius! Man, I am one lucky girl!!

Birthday Wishes

2010-08-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

My little guy is going to be turning ONE soon (only a month away), so I started thinking about announcements / party invites tonight.

Thank You!

2010-08-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

Craft Lake was a huge success!! Thank you so much to all those who stopped by -- it was so nice meeting you, and thank you so much for the kind words of encouragement you shared with me!

Good News -- while preparing last week, I was able to pull out a few goodies for the shop!

Whale Note Card Set - $6.50 (4 folded cards)

Fancy Smancy Brooch - Quail - $7.00

Popsicle & Ice Cream Magnet Set - $6.00

Plus, the five new designs I shared with you here are now available as well. Monday is ending pretty nicely, if I have to say so myself.

Thank you again for all of your support! It means so much to me!

Craft Lake City

2010-08-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

Heading down to Craft Lake City today. Sorry for the lack of posts, it is always a huge amount of work getting ready for a show. If you are in SLC, I'd love for you to stop by and say hello!

Craft Lake City 2010

2010-08-09T15:45:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it is almost here! Salt Lake's premier indie show extravaganza -- CRAFT LAKE CITY! This week is crunch time for me trying to get out all of the last minute projects I have been working on or have been meaning to work on. This year is going to be awesome! There are so many reasons to go check out the show, but here is the best one...

the debut of my Fall/Winter 2010 line! Introducing TEN new Send A Smile Note Card designs (more photos to follow), each deliciously cute and awaiting to be snatched up and sent off to your friends and family. I can't tell you how excited I am about this release -- it has been a lot of hard work, but so worth every second. I have never released this many designs at once, but I am sure you will agree, they are all perfect together.

So this is it -- the news I have been wanting to share with you. See, I told you it would be pretty awesome!

ps. In the place of my daily illustrations this week, I will be sharing with you the other projects / items that will only be available at Craft Lake -- like I said, this year is going to be awesome!

pss. The new line of note cards will be available in the shop beginning Monday, August 16th!

Another Sneak Peek

2010-08-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Something awesome is coming this way...

Humpty Dumpty Sat On A Wall

2010-08-04T20:41:00.001-07:00

'Owl'Standing Achievement

2010-08-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

I Scream You Scream We All Scream for ICE CREAM!

2010-08-03T18:27:00.001-07:00

Ice Cream Postcard Pack - $5.00

New to the shop!

count down

2010-08-02T15:48:00.000-07:00

Two weeks until I reveal some pretty cool, exciting stuff! Here is a little snippet. I can't wait to share the secret with you.

Tag Alongs

2010-07-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

Whenever my husband takes his bike out, my daughter is right there beside him asking him to take her with him. He usually drops what he is doing and takes her -- he is such an awesome dad!

For My Sister

2010-07-28T22:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my sister (who lives in Georgia, and who I am trying desperately to convince to move back home to Utah) requested a dolphin for my nephew. So I grabbed a piece of scrap paper and doodled away (I have a slight phobia when it comes to sketch books -- I am afraid that I have to fill the pages with perfect drawings whenever I use one, never doodles or sloppy sketches -- this is something I am trying to overcome since I have a slight obsession with paper goods, and since I carry at least two notebooks / sketch books with me at all times.) So tonight when I sat down to work on my daily illustration, I saw this guy sitting on my desk begging me to complete him. I am hoping my nephew loves him.

A Bicycle Built for Bird

2010-07-27T12:56:00.000-07:00

Zuri

2010-07-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

A tribute to the adorable Zuri.

Last but Not Least

2010-07-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

Matryoshka Necklace - $15.00

Here is the last necklace design, a little Matryoshka holding a heart, now available in the shop. I hope you like the new necklaces, they have been fun to work on. Next week I will begin posting my daily illustrations again -- I have missed sharing them with you.

Also, be sure to stay tuned -- I have some very exciting new and products to share in the coming weeks -- I promise you won't be disappointed!

Have a lovely weekend!

Summer Treat

2010-07-22T16:24:00.000-07:00

Panda Necklace - $15.00

Another necklace design for those sunny summer days. This guy makes me smile -- now available at the shop!

George

2010-07-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

George Necklace by Isabell's Umbrella - $15.00

As you probably can tell, this little guy is one of my favorites -- especially judging by the amount of stuff I put him on. When I set out to create these necklaces, I knew I wanted to include George too. So, here he is. Pretty cute huh? Now available in the shop!

One of My Favorites

2010-07-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of different projects going on back behind the scenes lately, and this is one of my favorites! New to the shop a variety of handmade necklaces. Each are strung on a beautiful 16" diamond cut sterling silver ball chain. These chains glitter in the sun -- I just love them.

A new design to be added every day this week, starting off with this adorable Kokeshi. The charms are tiny, and range from .25"x.50". I hope you like them too!

Kokeshi Necklace - $15.00

New Arrivals!

2010-07-19T08:59:00.000-07:00

Sorry, this post is a little later than I had anticipated. Last week I mentioned that I would be updating the shop, and well I wasn't able to snap the shots I wanted until this last weekend. So all this week, I will be adding a new item to the shop each day!

New to the shop today -- a new postcard! I hope you enjoy!

Ode to Nuts! - Postcard Pack (6 cards) - $5

Running A Business is a LOT OF WORK!

2010-07-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

This isn't something I just realized, it is just one of those days when I work on the time consuming, not very fun stuff. Today I choose to tackle new photos for the shop -- I say it is not very fun because for those of you who have experience doing this, there is a lot of back-end work to do... set-up for the photos (background, props, lighting); snapping about a hundred different photos for each piece; downloading the photos; determining which photos to select; cleaning-up photos; sizing photos for print and web.... you get the picture (ha ha, no pun intended). I have a lot of respect for photographers!

So, here is a bit of the fruit of my labor from today. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them!

LIttle Joey

2010-07-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

This is the second version of yesterday's illustration.

Joyful

2010-07-14T23:37:00.000-07:00

Thinking about turning this into an "expecting" card -- what do you think?

In Good Company

2010-07-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

Exciting news! Today some of my stationery was featured on STUDIO 5!

It was a wonderful segment regarding the lost art of the handwritten letter, and they featured Isabell's Umbrella as a great place to find unique stationery & paper goods along side with two of my local favorites Sarah Jane Studios (I have personally met Sarah, and she is just as sweet as her illustrations) & Sycamore Street Press -- they are both so talented! I couldn't of been in better company!

You can check out the segment below:

What a wonderful way to start out the week!

ps. So, as you can see, I am currently working on a little face lift for the blog -- today's project. Let me know what you think:)

Wishful Thinking

2010-07-12T22:13:00.000-07:00

A Red Panda is another one of those adorable animals I would love to own as a pet... although I have heard that they can be a bit grumpy at times.

Back from Vacation

2010-07-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for skipping out on you last week without any notice, I took a short vacation with my husband and the three bobbins. What a wonderful time! We stayed local, spent a lot of time in Park City swimming and shopping, visited the Hogle Zoo, saw Despicable Me, went to Chuck E Cheese, and stayed up late every night just talking, watching movies, and spending time with one another. It was perfect -- I definitely have the "return to work tomorrow blues".

So, now that I am back and getting into the swing of things again, I have a small treat -- this little narwhale, and news that I will be adding a few new items to the shop hopefully later this week (just need to get those photos taken)!

Something to Make You Smile

2010-06-29T20:36:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I think sloths are pretty adorable -- they always look like they are smiling. Here is a tribute to my mossy friends!

What A Fox!

2010-06-28T23:27:00.000-07:00