Summer Season

It's fully summer now, and despite the fact we're still getting rain at least 1 day out of every 5, there's been enough sun and heat to counteract it.  The garden is doing well.

Also, I got a day-job, again!  Yay!  I'm not allowed to talk about my company anywhere where I talk about my opinions, because it's a charity organization - so, you won't hear anything about it except that I'm happy!

Of course, this has meant that with a new 40-hour work week, and it being summer, that I've been getting very little done in the Izile's Oddities department.  I've completed some custom pieces, and I always make time for my customers who want something special designed just for them - but the general crafting for etsy has had to take a big backseat.  It will probably come back either when I acclimate back to a full-time job schedule, and/or when the weather starts getting so cruddy that I don't want to be out in it.

I've also been taking more time for my own art projects, tending the garden, and playing in food.  I actually started a new blog  South Eats North - that's all about my food adventures in NYC (reviews, rants, and recipes).  I started it on a quiet rainy lunch break just before the holiday.  There's only 3 entries so far, and they're kind of introductory, "just getting going" posts.  I'm hoping to be working on a good recipe post with pictures, soon!  One of the things about writing at your desk during lunch is that you don't really have a way to make the posts very visually interesting.

And speaking of the art projects for myself, one of them is a picture frame renovation inspired by The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.  It's an old, wooden, very ornate frame, and I'm doing it all in black and white, and then, there's a sculpted ribbon that spirals around the edge of the frame that I'm going to do in bright red.

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If you haven't read The Night Circus, I highly recommend it.  It's fairly light reading, but so enjoyable and inspiring!  If you like the kinds of mythical realism in modern fantasy, like Neil Gaiman, you'll probably love this book.

I'm not the only one who's been inspired by The Night Circus.  Using the title as a search term on etsy gives some very interesting results!

Awoken Words does illustration prints of works inspired from stories.  And she has one from the Night Circus, where the Illusionist, Celia, is first auditioning to join the circus, and turns her jacket into a raven.  I think this is an absolutely lovely visualization of this early scene in the book.  There aren't many prints in her shop currently, but the shop isn't quite 2 years old, yet.  However, all the prints, whether color or monochromatic, are beautifully rendered and exceptionally charming in style.


Accessoreads is another shop that takes inspiration from books and stories.  "Wear What You Read" is their shop motto.   And this white, black, and red circus bangle would be the perfect nod to those of us who would be rêveurs.  The rest of the shop is 6 pages of cuffs inspired by history and literature.  There are also a couple that are thinner bangle styles than the one pictured.  If you're a book lover, I'd suggest taking the time to pour over the options!

And, the newest entry in this circus of etsy sellers, with a shop just made in May of this year, is BluDragon Art, featuring mixed-media canvases.  This 3" x 4" mini-canvas is a winsome nod, featuring a quote from the book, and small details (which I won't spoil for those who haven't read the book yet) to bring a little bit of that enchantment to your own desk or shelf.  So far, the shop only has one page of art, but custom orders are welcome, and I think you'll find the other examples of her art as equally appealing.

Working on Restocking

This past weekend was the Steampunk World's Fair, and my first time to ever vend at a "Con."  It was a great experience, and very different from selling at street fairs and craft fairs.  The patrons definitely had different tastes.  I came very close to selling out of my Magic Vial Pendants (and did sell out of all of the bulb-bottom ones), and almost all of my From Faerie bath line.  So, right now I'm in the process of restocking and ordering more raw supplies.  

There are a couple of new things at the etsy shop because of SPWF.  First, I had made Voynich Manuscript inspired pendants, made out of wood in a more rustic medieval style (as suits a 15th century mysterious manuscript, I thought).  

I really enjoyed handing out little flyers to people on the Voynich Manuscript and encouraged folks to go google it and read up on this indecipherable codex.  (Seriously, open a tab, do a search, it's so entertaining!)  And so, I have a couple of those left over.

Also, waited until I could go out and do a proper live photo shoot with a model friend of mine to get better shots of my Sterling and Velvet - Victorian Gothic Choker.  That's her, here, and of course, bigger, better resolution shots on the actual listing.  So, thanks to Ms. Abigail Neffer LeMorte.  Also, she'll be moving to Seattle, WA this June, so if any of you are out there, and need a model, I highly recommend her (hey, she's even been shot for Japan's Vogue Magazine!)

Will miss you when you go all west-coast, chicky!!

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Speaking of the west coast, my plug today is out of Portland, OR:  Little Wing Faerie Art.

Yes, there are fairy wings, and yes, they are awesome, but what caught my eye was something a lot more out of the ordinary.  

The "hair wear" section has a collection of truly alien looking sculptural orchids for hat or hair.  They are hand-painted, hand sculpted, and flexible enough to allow for you to do a bit of your own minor adjustments to make sure it lays just right, whether perched in a bun, tucked behind an ear, lolling in a hatband, or pinned on your lapel.  The colors used are vibrant and almost seem luminous.

And, the other item she makes that first caught my attention really ARE luminous.  The flower lights are similarly fashioned and shaped, but inside their petals hide battery powered LEDs.  This fuscia one here, is a favorite!  I love fuscias, but they have never loved anywhere where I have lived.  I spent some time in Seattle years ago, and was struck by the fuscias there.  This is a gorgeous nod to the flower (and would love to see this same style in various colors, the way fuscias come in so many combinations).  

That's not even all of what you'll find over at her etsy shop - there's more to explore, and I highly recommend taking a few moments to pop over.

From Cherry Blossoms to Lilacs

I love this time of year, as soon as one flowering plant passes its season, it's another's turn.  I've always loved lilacs, unfortunately, they aren't too fond of extreme heat and humidity, so even my Mom, who had 2 green arms (not just green thumbs) couldn't keep any varieties alive when she tried to plant some for me as a child. However, they apparently love the much milder spring and summers of New York.

I thought, after learning about all the Sakura flavored things, that maybe lilacs might be edible as well, and after getting Google to shakily translate a few Swedish blogs, I found a recipe for lilac sugar!!

Here is a picture of the giant Ball jar I mixed up yesterday with 2 cups of fresh lilac blossoms (HUGE! I'd never seen a varietal this large!  There is an old varietal behind my s/o's family house - think he said his grandmother may have planted it - also, could be sure it hasn't been sprayed with any kind of pesticides or other chemicals)

I'm not sure how long it'll take to cure - but we'll see how it goes over the next few days.  I've read some places that lilacs smell better than they taste, but the Swedish blogs seem to mention lots of uses for lilac sugar.  Primarily, I'm hoping to make some great sugar scrubs for my From Faerie bath line.  Though, if it's tasty, I might save some for myself for baking.


Otherwise, I've been trying to build up stock for my first ever Convention vending opportunity at the Steampunk World's Fair.  I'll be under the wing/banner of my friends over at Dark Side Customs who absolutely rock the kasbah when it comes to steampunk jewelry.  That's why as of today, I've temporarily shut down my etsy shop to help dedicate more time to crafting as much as possible.  I won't be able to attend all 3 days, due to prior obligations, but I'm looking forward to spending Friday with them.  I've been especially hammering out some original paintings, and working on making as much From Faerie bath goodies as I can.

Here's a peek at a bath bomb I'm making just for the event:
Yup, a brain in a jar.  Blended with milk and honey powders to be extra luxurious on your skin.  Probably won't be selling them in jars, just one for display, and then, grab as many brains as you want for $2 a pop.  Will also have a LOT more smaller heart-shaped versions for $0.50 each (takes about 2 for a small tub or x-large foot bath).  I'm hoping the lilac sugar *might* be ready in time, but I'm not overly confident.  There will be all the other From Faerie soaks and scrubs, though, in somewhat limited quantities (had 2 weeks notice, and since I don't use essential oils, it takes time for these things to "cure").

Here's hoping! I'm really excited!

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Of course, the first thing I wanted to check on etsy was to see if anyone was making anything lilac flavored - nope.  (There's an idea, if I ever could have access to a certified kitchen, could do a seasonal line of floral treats that no one else seems to be making.  -  I wonder if you need a certified kitchen to sell things that can't really be tainted, like flavored sugars?)

So, there's no lilac edibles, that doesn't mean there aren't tons of other lilac themed products.

AlchemicMuse has been on my stalk-y list for a while now.  They're on the "when I get a real job. . .." purchase list.  And they just popped back up to the top of my list with their new Spring Collection.  Cloud Nine, one of the new fragrances, came up due to its Victorian Lilac component.  The scent description in the listing says, "billowing white blossoms of Victorian lilacs with wisps of sweet jasmine, white rose, white violet and cherry heliotrope. Floating beneath is a thick layer of fresh cream raining onto a bed of white raspberries." - Wow!  It's available as a cream soap, a foaming scrub, a body whip, a body gloss, bar soap, and a perfume oil.  They also sell minis of the soap, whip, and scrub.

I'm also going to point out that, if flowers aren't so much your thing, the Bamboo Pear with "green woods," pear, and tarragon sounds amazing, too!  And this is just the Spring Collection, there are over 200 items and all sorts of goodies to comb through!

Happy New Year!!

Welcome to 2013, and I hope it's already looking up for you!  I admit, so far so good, and I hope it is a portent of things to come.  It's Jan 2nd, and I've already had my first etsy sale and today I've got a day of temp work.  Granted, it's not the regular day-job I need to pay my bills, but a few days here and there is a lot better than none at all!

Had a good Holiday, myself, back in the South.  Got a couple of things I've been wanting/needing for Izile's Oddities.  For one, found a couple of good jewelry display boxes for the spring craft markets I hope to attend - they just need a bit of paint, really, and a new glass insert in the lid of one.  But at $0.99 each, hey! I can afford to do some restoration work!  A new small batch of smaller canvas boards are also on the horizon (thanks to a local art shop's after xmas sale!) 8 x 8s and 12 x 12s.  Smaller, more affordable and easier to ship paintings - and man do I have some ideas for some new paintings! (excited!) I also got from my Mom a small, long-handled cast iron ladle with pour spout - or, a crucible to melt down my scrap silver!  Lots of hope for 2013!

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Now, I am currently at a temp spot, and for some odd reason, the computer won't display etsy.com (I get the header banner and that's it.  Can click on links but all links are header + blank.  Odd).  So, I'm having to draw from the etsy artists I follow on Facebook (yup, that works fine, see, odd) for my blog plug today!

Providence! I load up my Pages Feed and the very top story is Perfect!

Lithia's Creations had just uploaded a picture of her "bullet necklaces."  I'm sorry I can't give you more information about the manner in which she makes these, but they are awesome looking!  I love the details on (I'm assuming old bullet casings) and the combination of beads and charms to add more whimsy and style.  With these, and a nice collection of cameos (I've seen the skeleton cameos on etsy before, but not the rose ones, I think they're some of my favorites!) it could make a nice nod to the Steampunk and Victoriana trends without going for the over-obvious gears + anything route.

Scrolling down, I'm finding even more bullet necklaces, some using natural quartz crystal points instead of beads - oh I like those!  And some very nice decorative flasks!  I am going to look over her stuff more thoroughly when I get home and can get on etsy - and I suggest you do the same!  Or, at least go like her FB page!

Leaving Tonight!

Mostly all packed up and ready to go once the work day lets out!  Will be back next week! (Shut down Izile's Oddities for the weekend, just in case).

Not for sale, but I made another mask for the Mechanical Masquerade at DragonCon this year.  The request was that it have clocks on it somewhere.  That, and it would have to be modified so it could be worn with a hat.

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Now, if you want to buy a steampunk mask for your own party . . .

I'd suggest checking out BSD Studios.  Most of their items are laser engraved leather pieces, which allows for a lot of intricate designs.  There are corsets and masks and jewelry, but actually, once I started looking through all their pieces, the on I want to focus on is a little bit more out of the standard stock - a see through eye patch.  A bit of sheer fabric (in your choice of color) obscures the eye from behind the leather design while still allowing you to see out.  

It's also an economical solution, at only $24, and could be a nice finishing accessory for your airship pirate.

Another Week

and things are slowly getting back into a familiar rhythm.

I really don't have much to say, but I want to try and get back to updating my blog on a regular basis, even if I do nothing more than just plug various other etsy shops.

So, that's what I'm doing tonight.

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Today, I thought I'd plug a fellow FAE (Fantasy Artists of Etsy) member. Remember, whenever you want to get a touch of fantasy in your etsy browsing, search, "faeteam."

And Red Robin Masks just stole my attention almost immediately with the most unique looking pair of goggles I have ever seen - and I go to Steampunk stuff sometimes!

These goggles are hand sculpted with resin, glass, metal and feathers; definitely a one of a kind piece! Also, as it states on the front of her shop - where she sells other amazing OOAK hand sculpted resin masks, "Have an old pair of prescription lenses? I can turn them into steampunk goggles! Just drop me a line either through the Contact link to the left."

Well, excuse me readers, but I have some myopic steampunk friends who need to hear about this ASAP!

Sideshow Soap - Reviews!

Sorry I haven’t kept this up to date better, but as of late, work and life have been beating me down relentlessly and leaving me very little time for the things I love. However, I come to you today with an extra-cool blog post: A company/product review! I went to the 2011 Maker Faire in NYC this past weekend, and fell in love with the most delightful etsy company. I spent time talking to the owner, and went home with a bag full of goodies to try. So, in this post, I’m actually able to put my personal stamp of approval behind everything I’m talking about, because I bought it, I own it, I use it, I LOVE IT!!

So I started opening the tester jars and snuffling away at the blends of scents that were refreshingly different, while Jessica was more than helpful to chat and explain and answer all my questions and sometimes overly-enthusiastic gushing. Also, to the left and right of her center stash, were laid out sidelines: Victory Garden, Werewolf, and what I would assume was just Autumnal.

The company is Sideshow Soap Company (For Clean Freaks), run by Jessica Morgan of New York City. So, wandering the giant spread of the Bust Craftacular at Maker Faire, her booth caught my eye because of the packaging. It’s all very stark black and white, but the nod to the Victorian stands out clean and crisp and drew me in. Once there, I could see the names: “Freakshow,” “Sword Swallower,” “Albino Alligator,” all with tiny vintage-styled illustrations on the labels and adorable descriptions printed right on the side of every container. This marketing was right up my ally!

The Victory Garden is a small collection of three scents that were so fresh and realistic as to be truly surprising. Bibb Lettuce, Green Pepper and Tomato & Vine are the three scents available in this side line, marked a little differently by the bramble inspired font on the label. She currently only sells these scents in solid bar soaps and whipped soaps.

The Werewolf line for Halloween takes on a much deeper, woodsier tone in Werewolf, Huntress, Gibbous Moon, Full Moon and Moonflower. Currently only bar soaps are available in her shop of this line; there were others at her table, so there might be more coming in that line, or she might have sold out – I know before the end of the day Saturday, when I was there, she was almost sold out of a couple of things, and still had all of Sunday to cover. I did get a bar of Werewolf, and while I can’t use bar soap, I gave it to my fella’ with instructions that he was to use it and report back to me in great detail.

From the main Sideshow Line, I picked up their “Sensational Scrub” in both Albino Alligator and Sword Swallower; and a lip balm in stick form.The “Autumnal” line (if it had another name, sorry, I forgot) was another short three scent line called Hearth, Cider Oak, and Pumpkin Seed. The Pumpkin Seed I know sold out because there was only one jar left by the time I found their table! These were available in whipped soap and small lotion pots. I got a small pot of Cider Oak lotion.

So now for product reviews:

I’m going to start with the lip balm because I think it’s a funny story. So, I picked out a lip balm I wanted to try: Dragon Lady (asian pear). But, I guess, in my giddiness, I grabbed the wrong tube, because when I went to dig it out later, it said “Carnival” and smelled decidedly of bubblegum. At first, I was really bummed, because I really don’t like bubblegum scents or flavors. But I tried it anyway. I love the feel of the lip balm so much, that even though I don’t like the scent, I can’t help but keep putting it on over and over again. So, while the lip balms aren’t up on her website yet, I am definitely stalking and waiting, because I want to get the right one, because if I can’t quit using the one I don’t like the smell of, I’m going to burn through the one that feels AND smells like I want. Will be perfect for the coming winter to avoid chapped cold lips!!

Next, the Werewolf Soap, as stated above, I cannot use bar soaps, so I passed this one off to the fella. He used it that night and called me to say that he really, thoroughly enjoyed showering with the soap. Said it foamed up quickly and smoothly, had lots of suds, smelled great, and rinsed clean and clear with no residue, either sticky or slick. The smell lingers slightly after the shower, but isn’t overpowering in any way, but when I met him hours later, there was still just a ghost of a scent lingering, if I got really close and snuffled for it. He was very enthusiastic about it; and to get a straight male enthusiastic about a bar of soap is quite an accomplishment!

I also had taken my new goodies into the shower almost as soon as I had gotten home and went with the Sword Swallower Sensational Scrub. I got out of the shower and raved to my sister that she HAD to try this stuff next time she was in the shower. I’m in love with their scrubs. It was a beautiful and exotic mix of ginger tea and coconut milk, it was smooth and silk and foamed just a bit into a light lather that I just kept wanting to rub in. Did NOT want to rinse off, it felt so good! And the tiny jojoba beads gave just enough scrub to brighten up the skin a bit. Cannot wait to use the Albino Alligator, as that’s her “southern belle scent” she said, and well, I am a Southern belle in NYC! She may have made me a convert off of shower gels. . .

And lastly, the Cider Oak lotion. I almost didn’t want to put any on after I got out of the shower, my skin already felt so soft and moisturized, but I wanted to try everything. It goes on smooth, (a little goes a long way with all of her products, it seems! These things are going to last, even if I use them all the time! Great!!) and it has a clean, not greasy, not heavy at all, but moisturizing light feel. Dries quickly, and the smell LASTS. I put more on this morning before I went to work and it’s 5 hours later and I can still sniff my arm whenever I need a bit of a mood pick-me-up for a little on-the-spot aromatherapy.

In short: Elf Need MORE! And highly suggests everyone go and visit her shop, read the descriptions and order it yourself! She even does sell sample sizes of the body scrub, which I cannot rave about enough. If you get anything, get a trial size of one of her Sensational Scrubs and try it yourself and see if you just won’t be hooked!

Interim Ideas

Wanted to give a little update and ask opinions. I am coming into a small stash of 15ml glass bottles, and been pondering what to do with it. I'm not entirely sure that this will fall under From Faerie, or if it will be more along the lines of my Magic Vial pendants. . . just not pendants.

The idea is to revisit one of my original concepts from years gone by and make magic oils for alter/candle anointing. They would be very similar to the formulas and intents in the Magic Vial pendants, but much larger and with enough oil to actually use. To start, I will keep it basic. One for each of the four elements, a lunar and a solar oil, and either a Fae oil or something along the lines of the more generically nature driven "Deep Forest" oil I had made all those years ago back in the Tennessee days. Of course, as always, custom orders will be available in case anyone wants to commission a bottle for a zodiac or a personal issue they'd like addressed (health, love, success, etc.) Also, to keep cost affordable, the percentage of gemstones used in the bigger bottles will be lower (it would take a LOT of gemstones to fill a 15ml bottle as full as my pendants look!) but since there is so much more room, I'll be able to really up the herb quotient.

Anyway, would love to hear thoughts, comments, suggestions, questions, about what any

potential customers might think about this.

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So, on a slightly related tangent, before all this I had found a new interesting shop called Wishing Thorn. They make some of the most beautiful old vintage style labeled bottles. This baneberry piece is a favorite of mine from their shop. And, I think it's a nice touch that she also sells these labels as stickers in a wide variety of styles and types, so if you have your own vintage style bottles that you'd like to decorate, you can do that bit yourself! You can also find, in a similar style, her own art prints, photography and book plates as well. Beautiful work!

Strange Days

August always brings strange days to my door. It's only a couple of days in and already things are getting odd - and for me, that's saying something!

Today, almost nothing has happened at all at work, except for a couple who came in from the building next door to complain that they couldn't sleep because our a/c unit was too loud.

I work in midtown Manhattan, by the way.

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But enough of all that. I recently met another New York etsy seller, and really dug their creations! So, here's my plug for today's blog as I give a shout out to Dark Side Customs!

As you might have guessed from the name, there is a Star Wars influence to some of their ideas, but don't expect to see anything overt, like tiny light sabers, or cuff links in the shape of Darth Vaders helmet in the shop! The general aesthetic is much more classical in the fantasy style with a good bit of Victorian and steampunk influences, particularly in some of his more recent pieces.

One of my personal favorites is the filigree ring with simulated opal. Though, if you want something a little more along the lines of cogs and gears, they've got you covered there, too! And with modest prices starting at just over $12.00, there's options that won't make your wallet shed a single tear!

Definitely worth the browsing, and we're looking to see lots more from them in the future!

Weird

I'm in an odd mood as of late. I don't really know how to describe it or go into it. I've started tutoring a little to help with the income, and it's definitely a "learning experience," in the words of my Mother. I can never tell if she's holding back some kind of sadistic laughter when she says that or if it's honest, genuine. . . . concern? maybe?

So. Yes. Odd.

Oh, look! A new Magic Vial Pendant! I haven't posted one on here in ages! There's two of these currently in my etsy shop at Izile's Oddities, and they're a little different than the rest - they're 50% bigger!

I had made a small ordering error and purchased a small amount of bottles in a size 50% bigger than my standard vials without realizing it. Now, I paid less for this size, but they hold a lot more, but in these cases, I've used some of the least expensive crystals for the base. This one is mostly filled with Rose Quartz with one chunk of Ruby, and then Rosemary and a whole Rose bud. In the end, it works out that they cost about the same as your standard vial pendant.

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Over 24,000 results when you enter the word "weird" into etsy. And there are some SERIOUSLY weird items (though, there are quite a few things that I do not understand how they are "weird" at all.) to be found under the category. There are some amazing "weird" entries if you sort by most expensive and look through the first few pages, but you know, on this blog, I rarely feature anything over $100.00.

I still think my favorite type of "weird" is faux taxidermy. I was never a fan of honest taxidermy as a child - though it was everywhere in the South (not in my house, though!) - as I was rather the type of child who would yell at people for shooting Bambi's Mom and say inappropriate things to friends of my parents, like "what a lovely room of death you have." (me, probably age 9?) However, I have a morbid sense of aesthetic appreciation for fake taxidermy, or gaff taxidermy using roadkill. (And those of you who know me know I left my rather rabid animal rights days behind me shortly after graduation from high school.)

Not exactly what I was thinking I'd find, but the first thing that caught my attention was Harem Royal: Screwpulous Jewelry. I don't normally cut/paste from the shop descriptions themselves, but I find it was too well worded on the front page for me to even attempt writing a better definition: "Deadly Gorgeous Glam Goth, Avant Garde Victorian Steampunk and Vampire Black Forest Taxidermy or just simply Screwpulous Jewelry. Beauty is a weapon, right? Can`t have the femme without fatale!" The prices range from just over $20 to a good bit over $200, to offer everyone a wide range of options for their taste and budget. Please do note, the shipping is from Europe and may be a bit steep for those of us America-side. "Susanoo: the Shinto god of seas, storms and thunder" is shown.

Other than that, I guess all I would say is, apparently my favorite trend of "plush kill" or "felt-i-dermy" is decreasing in popularity, as my favorite old shop seems to have poofered and am not seeing many new examples.

Ah well. Weird.

Experimenting

So, I've been experimenting in my head recently. Not finding what I want (which, I will admit, is made harder by not knowing what I want) has spurred me to try and create something to fill what appears to be a lack. I haven't really been finding much in the way of fantasy/fairy bath products. (Side note, I really can't use bar soaps because of my sensitive skin, so I'm not counting soaps). I've been looking on etsy, googling, and I'm just not finding the particular genre I want. I remember there used to be so many, so maybe the reason there aren't, anymore, is because they're not very popular. Could definitely be the case that the fae arent' as "trendy" as they once were. I found a few shut down, closing, or long abandoned webpages.

So, I present my first knock-up draft - just a photoshop creation at the moment, I'm still pricing ingredients - Fairy Milkmaid bath soak. Please forgive, it's a rough work up, just to get an idea.

"From Faerie" is just a working title for the subset of Izile's Oddities this would be if it happens and works out. I've had another friend suggest "Something Sidhe." Working on that, but I want something to convey that these aren't just going to be your regular products with lots of pink dye and glitter thrown in and a fantasy name

on the product. I've been doing my research and reading up on the Celtic Fae in particular. Reading up on what attracts different fae, what are their habitats, their connections. All the care and research I put into my Magic Vial Pendants, I'm putting into these.

The tiny script reads: "A soothing and moisturizing blend of buttermilk and shea butter infused with marigold and thyme."

In olden times, Irish milkmaids would churn marigold petals in with their butter to help enhance color, and as I have grown and dried organic marigold petals, this is an easy additive for me. The thyme, also organic from my own garden, is a favorite herb of fairies, and is said to help foster fairy magics. That combined with the moisturizing properties of shea butter and the enriching and vitamin packed properties of buttermilk - with just a touch of fizz to the soak - I think would make one heck of a product!

I've already got the rough drafts of 6 products, 3 bath soaks and 3 bath salts.

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Now, something that I DID find in the bath n body tag that is totally what I've been looking for. ..

but not -fae- is Pixxxie Pie and Posie. I know, with that name I was expecting high fantasy, too. But instead, am PLEASANTLY surprised to find probably some of the best steampunk bath and body products I've ever seen.

Every detail, from the thoughtful blend of ingredients, the cleaver wording of the listing, the detailed labeling, the beautiful photography. THIS. Just. THIS.

The pictured bottle is of her 4oz bath oil blend. Though, she carries a lot more in the way of perfume oils, she also has salts, bombs, butters, scrubs, and of course, lots and lots of bar soaps.

I highly recommend taking some time to look over her store. It's really quite fun!

DragonCon

Yeah! Back, and I know, I was technically back on Wednesday, but it's been kind of weird/strange slow-ish week, and at least one day of hell.

So, first, I have yet to locate any *good* pictures of us from D*Con, have been scouring flickr and google and other as much as I can and so far, nada. So, if you see us, let me know. Might even throw in a thank you goodie of some kind.

So, a revamped of last year's Mad Scientists costume:

Goggles by: Darkly Sewn of Etsy

Both Lab Coat/Lab Coat Dress customs by: Aughra Moon (

roommate and pro seamstress)

Arm band Test Tube holder by: Lost Realm of Etsy

Thigh holster by: BoMoLuTra of Etsy

Raygun by: Agent of Chaos of Etsy

Boot spats by: Faitavec of Etsy

(and those are fiber optic hair clips I got off ebay, and the

pink stuff in the test tubes is X-rated, lovely neon pink vodka liqueur flavored with blood orange, mango and passion fruit. Nummy! And a nice way to spike a Sprite in the hotel lobby!)

And then there was our Steampunk costumes. This is our first year with them, and we'll both need a LOT of accessories before next year to up the steampunk factor.

Now, this is the ONLY picture I have of us in these costumes together, so this one is a HUGE - PLEASE - if you see a picture of us in these costumes, let me know! I don't know what happened, between my camera, Bentley's Iphone (which is one of the new ones with the actually decent camera) and our other friend, Mel's camera (this one was from hers).

Goggles by: Darkly Sewn of Etsy

Necklace, obviously by me, Izile's Oddities

Shirt by Lip Service Corset by: Timeless Trends

Skirt by: Aughra Moon (roommate and professional seamstress)

and Bentley's leather doublet and shirt are by: Ravens Wood Leather (he also wanted me to note that he did actual have pirate boots that he did end up wearing, they were just in the car and he hadn't gone and gotten them yet)

So, those were the costumes of this year, and those are all the etsy sellers who helped me put together these looks. And you know I'll be looking for more for next year!!

Also, one last thing. They aren't etsy sellers, but I love it so much I have to brag. DragonCon weekend always falls on Labor Day weekend, which is always my Birthday weekend (9/4), so while the whole trip is kind of a birthday present, this was my actual tangible birthday present from Bentley, from Brute Force Leather

DragonCon Prep

Also, getting ready for DragonCon! I go Wednesday to crash at a friend's place so we can take the bus together to the air port Thursday to Atlanta for a whole extended weekend of Geekish Fun!

I found this seller on etsy yesterday, as I had just realized that I hadn't even thought about what to do with my hair for my new steampunk costume. I love her stuff, unfortunately, I do not have time to buy anything and have it shipped before I leave. Maybe next time. This stuff is awesome, though!

Antickquities is a shop that focuses almost exclusively on steampunk hair adornments. They range in price from $5.00 to $20.00 and are made at various levels of ornamentation and in a few different colors. Mostly, watch hands are her base, but I absolutely love the way she creates different shapes with basically straight lines. If only I had found her in time, I'd probably be wearing these at DragonCon!

Blargum

Exciting title, right? Just kinda how I'm feeling this morning.

So, the fair went fairly well. It did rain from almost 2-6pm, so no customers for that part of the day. I had a few experiments at table that are not on my etsy store. I had made homemade bath bombs. I had a "Blackberry Bramble" which was blackberry fragrance oil with rose petals and cocoa butter; and I had a "Sweet Summer Tea" that was lemon balm, lemon and peach fragrance oil with cocoa butter. Those sold out and most of them went pretty fast. I had only made 4 of each, so it didn't take much to wipe them out. Something to consider for future fairs. I also had made a batch of my "Demon Cookies" to give away free as product testing. Everyone seemed to love them, one lady told me I should be charging $3.00 a piece. Wow!

So, I guess now I just look for the next available opportunity.

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Well, it's slowly getting to be that time of year where my thoughts turn to DragonCon, my costume, and the Mad Scientists Ball.

Sadly, while steampunk gets more and more popular, and more and more a broad-spectrum and inclusive term, mad science just isn't really growing the way I'd hoped. Kids today, they just don't have the same global-domination dreams like we did when I was little!

I admit, I was looking for something particular. Remember last year at this time, I plugged this Mad Scientist Shooter Bar for drinking your shots out of test tubes. Well, I was told by a friend who went with me, that they saw a guy at the nearby liquor store who had the same concept, but built into a leather wrist brace. Apparently, he was standing at the counter, holding his wrist up to explain, pointing to the slots for each test tube saying "rum, vodka, bourbon, tequilla. . ." I wanted to see if such a thing was on etsy. . . sadly no. It's not as cleaver as the Steampunk Professor X who's steam powered wheelchair also chilled and dispensed massive quantities of any liquid, but I figure it'd also be a lot less labor, time and money.

Muah-ha! With persistence I have found Lost Realm's "Potion Holder" which, isn't 6+ test tubes around the wrist, but two off the belt is going in the right direction! Pictured left is the "simple" potion holder, but for $5.00 extra, there is another potion holder in a nearly black-brown leather with a D-ring for attachments and screw on metal caps.

This seller seems brand new. Joined in May of 2010, has four items for sale and 1 positive feedback and 1 sale. You know I always like to encourage everyone to help out the new guys! My costume doesn't have a belt (and wouldn't look right to add one) but I may have to talk to my guy-friend (who wants a belt) about this possible addition!

Folks

Yeah! So my parents are in town for belated birthday celebration, and to be through my last little bit of medical issues.

I'm taking just a moment so my blog isn't completely neglected without warning or explanation.

So, now you know.

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My love of mad scientists continues as I have now been indoctrinated into the fandom of Dr. Steel and his Utopian Playland - "remember, only YOU can help Dr. Steel take over the world."

And then I found this on etsy, and it is truly genius! EVIL genius (of course!)

Xylocopa designs has a set of alphabet blocks so you too can start your child off to a future in mad science and world domination!

The blocks themselves are solid American maple wood, laser engraved with original art; and all edges rounded and smoothed without harmful dyes or finishes, to be safe for your future evil genius.

From the listing, the images are as follows:
A - Appendages
B - Bioengineering
C - Caffeine
D - Dirigible
E - Experiment
F - Freeze ray
G - Goggles
H - Henchmen
I - Invention
J - Jargon
K - Potassium
L - Laser
M - Maniacal
N - Nanotechnology
O - Organs
P - Peasants (with Pitchforks)
Q - Quantum physics
R - Robot
S - Self-experimentation
T - Tentacles
U - Underground Lair
V - Virus
W - Wrench
X - X-Ray
Y - You, the Mad Scientist of Tomorrow
Z - Zombies

D*Con RETURNED!

So, I got home from DragonCon late last night, and just woke up (4pm). It's a good thing you can actually catch up on sleep!

And, for anyone who went, in case you're curious, the picture is of me in our hotel parking lot before heading into the Con.

And now onto the WINNER OF MY D*CON WEEKEND GIVE AWAY!!!

For reference sake, I used the "Random Number Picker" from calpoly.edu

AND THE WINNER IS!!!

Mariah Haley!!

I will be emailing you shortly to get your mailing address for your package!

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And, It doesn't matter what I blog about, I *always* include an etsy plug! (and hey, I plugged etsy a LOT over the weekend, and just not my own shop, but etsy in general!)

Steampunk exploded all over the con this year! I believe the Steampunk Professor Xavier was the best, just because of the functionality of his chair, but still. Wow!

And while it's true with most styles of costumes, Steampunk, in particular, seems to be really all about the details and accessories!

And for that, I'm really digging Velvet Mechanism's steampunk chest harnesses. And while it's true, I normally do not go in for "faux leather" of any form or nature, the brown (pictured here, though black is available) doesn't look super "fakey" and it's hard to argue against it when this great piece of workmanship is only $55!

The rest of their etsy shop mostly revolves around great pieces of steampunk jewelry, though there are other exceptions, like their steampunk underbust corset. So, it's definitely worth the click to browse!

Wootage!

Well, before we get to the woot-age, the awwww-age: guess I'm not doing the Brooklyn Indie Market this weekend, turns out the kiosks were already booked up, just didn't hear back for a very long time. Ah well, it gives me more time to get ready for DragonCon! WOOT-AGE!

So, I've ordered the boot-spats, and I bought the goggles (see both in last post); and I'll bribe my roommate for the lab coat/dress when she gets back from Alabama. I need to order those fiberoptic hair fasinators, but I keep forgetting. Must do that after I blog!

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So, I'm still on the whole mad science and steampunk kick, but let's get away from the costumes and wearables for a change of pace.

Eagles Nest Wood Crafts has a Mad Scientist Shooter Bar. I love the photography and the pitch, too; showing two of the test tubes filled with two different shots.

My host for DragonCon is also going as a mad scientist and has wanted to have a belt that holds test tubes for similar shooter purposes. I've even been looking into a dried, powdered additive that could be poured from test tube into any beverage, and make it fizz and change color without effecting it's drinkability. (thinking some combination of powdered food color, citric acid and baking soda. All harmless when injested, and should prove interesting when added to clear liquors.)

And, because I haven't done any art promoting in a while, J Van Hulle's Steampunk Burlesque Art is a must visit! I had to pick her Dr. Girlfriend variation because . . well. . just because it's awesome!

Prints of all her vintage style scienc/steampunk babes are avialble from $57 to $125, depending on the size.

AH!!!

So, August just kind of snuck up on me! Sneaky little bastard! My first craft fair of the year is going to be this Sunday at the Brooklyn Indie Market (I'll be in one of the outside kiosks) and I have to admit, I think I'll be scrambling this week! (I spent last weekend in D.C. at the Progressive Nation 2009 Concert - YES!! Dream Theater & Queensryche & Zappa Plays Zappa! WOOT!!)

Also, DragonCon is now officially less than a month away. I've bought my plane ticket to Atlanta, and am trying to compile my costume.

My roommate, when she gets back from her trip to AL, will be making me my labcoat/cheongsam dress (think a sleeveless version of Dr. Girlfriend's dress, but in white, not pink -and no hat!).

I've already ordered a pair of spiffy custom sized (skinny skinny legs!) boot-spats from Faitavec. She has a lot of cute variations of really nice spats, but these were my favorites!

She's also been really friendly and said the month deadline (yeah, I know, I'm leaving it late) would be no problem. So yeah! And now, I'll be able to wear comfy shoes at the con, but it'll still work out with my steampunkish mad scientist costume!

I've also been eyeing several Etsyers who make goggles. . . must have goggles!

Right now, Darklysewn is in the lead for most bang for your buck in the interesting steampunk goggle category. Plus, I like the fact that her goggles come with three sets of interchangable lenses. Depending how bright Atlanta is, I might go with the smoked lenses, but I do love the cracked lenses as I basically plan to be wearing them up most of the time.

The only other thing that leaves is non-etsy items (I want fiberoptic hair fascinators to put into my mad scientist pigtails).

I WILL be ready for the Mad Scientists' Ball this year!

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I would also like to add a couple of things I wanted to put in my costume, but money. . she running out FAST.

So, the "if money were not an issue, I'd also be getting. . . "

Fantasies In Leather 's Geologists Tool Holder. Not only is it gorgeously done, but I am such an amateur geology buff! And hey, geologists are scientists! According to my old geology prof, they're the pirates and thieves of the science world - because they take everyone else's work and just tack "geo" in front of it and call it their own (paraphrased from first or second class lecture.). Muahahaha, steampunk geology pirate mad scientist FTW!

The rest of their shop is so eclectic as it has to be seen, having hats, masks, pasties and more.

And, since we're in the "money is not an issue" dream state now, I'd also want one of sewlutionsbyamo 's wrist cuff wallets.

I mean, we all know that feeling, you get a rocking costume for an event. . and where do you keep your money, IDs, credit cards, room keys. . . and if you're a girl, your costume almost never has room for pockets, and do you really want to drag around a purse that just does not go with the aesthetic of your look? Ug! But these, these are great solutions! There's plenty of variations in style and color to go with almost any kind of clothing, and you can keep your (thin, flat) items protected and always in sight. Very swanky!

Potential

So, I've got company in town, so I haven't had any time for crafting, and work keeps most of my days filled; but I've taken a moment to pop on and discuss some potential future adventures in crafting.

While leading my friend around NYC, we stopped by Evolution, in Soho, and I picked up (and I know, I probably overpaid) some components that I hope to work into future pieces.

I bought my friend a Tantric Lingam that he's going to want me to find a way to wrap, so he won't just lose the loose stone. For myself, I got 3 very nice specimens of freshwater pearl, and a vial of Jewel Beetle wings.

I'm still not entirely sure what I'm going to do with either the pearls or the wings (they aren't even drilled yet, so that'll be an adventure - though the salesman told me he thought a safety pin would work just fine.)

So, there's a little peek at what might be coming up for Izile's Experiments.

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As far as jewel beetles on etsy, mostly there's just earrings (which I know I won't be doing because I don't have pierced ears so earrings just almost never occurr to me.)

My favorite set are probably these Exoskelton Earrings by Exoskeleton Cabaret, because of the inclusion of tiny watch gears. Plus, she gets extra bonus points from me for offering clip-on earrings! Yeah!

Aside from the jewel beetle jewelry pieces, she also has a very interesting series of steampunk style photographs.

More Steampunk!

It's getting down to the last ten days before the Brooklyn Indie Market Steampunk Day! Woot! And I just made my first honestly steampunk jewelry set!

The wings are maple seeds covered in gold leaf, and then I used bits harvested from old clocks and watches for the rest. I used screw-back ear bobs so *anyone* can wear them (I don't have pierced ears), and have wired everything together with 14K gold-filled wire.

I know I'm running low on time for the massive craft-attack I need to put out, but I'll get there! Hopefully going to dismantle large quantities of old clocks and watches tonight in front of the tv.

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There's actually a lot of Maple Seed jewelry out there! Twigs and Heather has the largest variety, and the most natural looking Maple Seed jewelry.

Her necklaces are cast in Sterling Silver, and each one is as different as the seeds she collected. I love how none of the fine vein work has been lost in the casting process.

The rest of her shop is full of more sterling silver jewelry inspired by other bits of nature. The birch bark cuffs and twig necklaces are definitely worth looking into!