BlueBell Folk Art - whimsical folk art from Vermont

Tobias and the Angel

2012-01-02T08:31:00.005-05:00

This Bible story tells the story of a man named Tobit living in Nineveh.

He is particularly noted for his diligence in attempting to provide proper burials for fallen Israelites who have been slain by Sennacherib, for which the king seizes all Tobit's property and exiles him.

After Sennacherib's death, Tobit is allowed to return to Nineveh, but buries a man who had been murdered on the street. That night, he sleeps in the open and is blinded by bird droppings that fall in his eyes. This puts a strain on his marriage, and ultimately, he prays for death.

Meanwhile, in faraway Media, a young woman named Sarah prays for death in despair. She has lost seven husbands to the demon of lust, Asmodeus, who abducts and kills every man she marries on their wedding night before the marriage can be consummated.

God sends the archangel Raphael, disguised as a human, to heal Tobit and to free Sarah from the demon.

The main narrative is dedicated to Tobit's son, Tobias, who is sent by his father to collect a sum of money that the latter had deposited some time previously in the far off land of Media. Raphael represents himself as Tobit's kinsman Azariah, and offers to aid and protect Tobias on his journey. Under the guidance of Raphael, Tobias makes the journey to Media, accompanied by his dog.

Along the way, Tobias is attacked by a fish, whose heart, liver and gall bladder are removed to make medicines.

Upon arriving in Media, Raphael tells Tobias of the beautiful Sarah, whom Tobias has the right to marry, because he is her cousin and closest relative. He instructs the young man to burn the fish's liver and heart to drive away the demon when he attacks on the wedding night.

The two are married, and the fumes of the burning organs drive the demon away to Upper Egypt, while Raphael follows him and binds him.

Meanwhile, Sarah's father has been digging a grave to secretly bury Tobias (who he assumes will be dead). Surprised to find his son-in-law alive and well, he orders a double-length wedding feast and has the grave secretly filled. Since he cannot leave because of the feast, Tobias sends Raphael to recover his father's money.

After the feast, Tobias and Sarah return to Nineveh. There, Raphael tells the youth to use the fish's gall to cure his father's blindness. Raphael then reveals his true identity and returns to heaven. Tobit sings a hymn of praise.

He tells his son to leave Nineveh before God destroys it according to prophecy. After the prayer, Tobit dies at an advanced age. After burying his father, Tobias returns to Media with his family.

Boat Stack

2011-12-30T16:38:00.002-05:00

Here is a whimsical 'stack' piece of a boat and a fish.

It started with at little piece of driftwood... then the water, then the fish - all stcked up on a base.

Lots of fun!

2 Birds

2011-12-30T16:36:00.001-05:00

Here is another 'bird box'.

Beautiful embroidered and appliqued background by Marlene.

Merlin the Greyhound

2011-12-30T16:35:00.001-05:00

Here is a custom piece - Merlin, the Greyhound.

Pepe and Molly

2011-12-30T16:34:00.001-05:00

Custom Piece

Group of Sheep

2011-12-30T16:33:00.000-05:00

A flock of sheep!

Cut nail legs and wool faces.

Sail Boat made of Driftwood

2011-12-30T16:31:00.002-05:00

This is another in a series of sailboats made from driftwood.

The sails are made from burlap - goes nice with the wood.

A lot of this wood came from the lake - washed up during the floods earlier this Spring.

Mr. Elephant

2011-12-30T16:29:00.001-05:00

Check out the spout!

Little glass beads.

Rhino and Bird

2011-12-30T16:28:00.003-05:00

Ever see the nature shows where they show a bird perched on top of a rhino?

Well.... here it is...

Mr Frogster

2011-12-30T16:26:00.003-05:00

Every few months I get an urge to make a new frog!

Fish on driftwood

2011-12-30T16:24:00.003-05:00

Fish are another of my favorite subjects.

I love the colors and endless variety.

Diftwood makes a great base if I can find the right piece!

Miss Mop Head

2011-12-30T16:22:00.001-05:00

What a hair-do on this girl!

She's not really having a bad hair-day - she's stylin' !!

Red and White Chicken

2011-12-30T16:20:00.002-05:00

Here is a new piece - a chicken - once again.

Still one of our favorite subjects!

St Francis

2011-12-28T17:42:00.003-05:00

One of our favorite subjects is St Francis of Assisi.

This piece has a carved wooden figure of Francis in front of a hand appliqued and embroidered panel by Marlene.

2 little carved birds adorn the front and there is a glass fish mounted on the top panel behind the figure.

This piece stands about 15 inches tall.

The Bear

2011-12-28T17:38:00.004-05:00

Here is a new piece we made in late November - a bear walking along a path.

He's made of wood with leather ears and tail - mounted on a pine base.

This little bear stands about 6 inches tall.

Book Ends!

2011-12-28T17:32:00.004-05:00

Here is a beautiful pair of bookends - featuring the rabbit and the fox by Michael and Marlene Forte. Made from poplar and hand painted.

The bookends were made by Gerry Tetrault (cabinetsbygerry.com) of Bristol. He crafted these bookends from butternut and left the natural finish.

Painted Bunting

2011-07-04T10:44:00.002-04:00

I know why the Caged Bird Sings!

This little bird is free to fly away any time she wants. Inside a beautiful antique looking, black wire bird cage , this folk art Painted Bunting rests on a piece of driftwood.

The bird cage is about 10 inches tall and the folk art bird is 5 inches tall.

Inuit Style Sea Bird

2011-06-19T10:46:00.001-04:00

This bird sculpture hangs on any wall - she comes ready to hang. This beautiful bird looks like she diving to catch a little fish.

Based on Inuit art, our folk art bird has a graceful curve and earthy colors. The piece measures about 15 x 15 inches and is made of wood and hand-painted.

The bird's head projects out from the wall (a little hard to see in the photo). This piece looks beautiful on any wall.

Another sailboat

2011-06-13T07:50:00.002-04:00

Here is the newest sailboat in our 'driftwood' fleet!

She's a little beauty made from natural driftwood and handmade paper sails. You can see bits of leaves in the paper!

This driftwood sailboat stands about 10 inches tall.

On the mast is a small blue flag - also hand made paper.

Driftwood Sailboat

2011-06-12T14:42:00.000-04:00

Ahoy mates!

This sailboat is made from natural driftwood pieces and the sails are handmade paper.

She stands about 9 inches tall.

The base is also driftwood.

Dalmatian on Fire Truck Folk Art

2011-06-05T14:29:00.001-04:00

I wonder why the Dalmatian is always associated with Fire Trucks?

Well... this little guy seems to be no exception!

This folk art piece is about 13 inches tall and 15 inches wide - the fire truck with the wooden spoke wheels and dog with leather ears are made from wood and hand-painted.

Our piece has the look of an antique toy but this is not meant to be a children's toy.

Calico Cat Juggling

2011-05-23T07:44:00.001-04:00

This very talented Calico Cat could join the Circus - if she wanted to.

She stands 12 inches tall from the base to the top of the balls she is juggling. She is made from wood and hand painted.

A copper wire connects the 4 balls that are painted in soft pastel colors and accented with metallic gold.

Blue Bird Lamp Finial

2011-05-10T07:32:00.002-04:00

There aren't many birds quite like our beautiful blue bird - it is said that they carry the sky on their backs when they fly.

This lamp finial is about 4 inches long and has a solid brass fitting - ready to screw into your lamp.

A one of a kind gem - this little bird won't fly away and will warm any room - a unique piece.

Folk Art Fish - new piece

2011-05-07T16:15:00.003-04:00

This would be an interesting fish to find in your pond! Very unusual indeed...

Our folk art fish is about 10 inches long and about 9 inches tall with the base. She sits perched on a base by a small piece of real driftwood.

The base has 3 little pewter fish with glass bead eyes mounted on the front.

The colors are ivory, warm reds, soft mauves and colonial blues.

You can click on the picture to see a larger view.

Juggling Circus Dog!

2011-04-30T10:49:00.002-04:00

Another amazing Circus Dog - this one is juggling little wooden circus pins.

This guy stands about 10 inches tall with the base. The base is made of wood and features a beautiful dusty rose color with metallic gold accents and a French blue speckled top.

The dog has leather ears and is juggling 5 wooden circus style pins held in place by a brass wire.

This little pig stayed home...

2011-04-28T07:13:00.002-04:00

This little pig has a great pink button nose, leather ears, wooden spools for legs, and a curly brass wire tail.

She stands about 5 inches tall and 6 inches wide on the hand painted pine base.

Her face is great - little round eyes that look out at you - and we love the nose!! Marlene found a pink button and as soon as we saw it, we both said "Perfect for a pig!"

Ruby Crested Kinglet

2011-04-27T07:22:00.002-04:00

This is a new wood and fabric folk art piece featuring the beautiful little Ruby Crested Kinglet perched on a piece of driftwood in front of a beautiful hand appliquéd and embroidered fabric panel by Marlene.

This ready to hang wall art is about 11 x 11 inches and projects out about 2 inches. The wood box is also hand made and hand painted.

The colors are earthy and the fabric works beautifully with the hand made and painted Ruby Crested Kinglet - a small bird with a little red cap and a gorgeous green body.

Turtle Folk Art

2011-04-21T07:54:00.001-04:00

Hello Mr Turtle!

This wooden folk art turtle is having fun sunning himself and having a look around the edge of the pond where he lives.

His head is arched up as he takes a look around. You won't find a real turtle with these exact colors and patterns - this whimsical turtle is a one-of-a-kind.

This turtle is about 4 inches tall the and base is 8 inches wide.

Americana Folk Art Pig

2011-04-19T07:29:00.002-04:00

This little Americana Folk Art Pig stands about 6 inches tall on her hand-painted basswood base.

The top of the base is a classic black and red checkerboard pattern and the side are adorned with metallic gold stenciled stars on a colonial red background.

The wooden pig has leather ears and a little curly wire tail. Her antique white sides are also stenciled with metallic gold stars.

Antique Cat with brass curly tail

2011-04-12T12:04:00.002-04:00

This cute little cat is a 'primitive' style- with a curly brass tail and wire whiskers... and a big black nose.

She stands about 6 inches tall and is adorned with stenciled stars.

Run Rabbit Run!

2011-04-10T14:23:00.002-04:00

Have you ever seen a wild rabbit hop across the grass? They either take little hops or they FLY - touching the ground every 15 feet.

Our little rabbit is just about to leap. She is made of wood and is posed in front of a beautiful hand-embroidered fabric background by Marlene.

The piece is about 9 X 11 inches and made from wood and fabric - it comes ready-to-hang or you can place it on a shelf.

The fabric colors are earthy and the details on the stitching are gorgeous. Marlene spends a lot of time choosing her 'pallet' of both cotton and wool fabrics as well as the thread colors.

This is a one-of-a-kind piece!

Calico Cat with a bird!

2011-04-10T14:22:00.002-04:00

This is one gentle little calico cat - she stands patiently while a little bird has landed on her curled tail. She doesn't mind at all!

This unique piece is about 10 inches tall (from base to top of bird) - she stands on a wood base and will brighten any room and bring a smile to the face of whoever gazes upon her.

Hand painted and one-of-a-kind!

New Juggling dog on a pumpkin base

2011-04-08T07:25:00.002-04:00

What a talented group of Circus Dogs we have here at BlueBell Folk Art!

Just look at this little guy as he juggles his circus balls.

This piece is about 8 inches tall and the base is a 'pumpkin' of carved wood - all hand painted.

These juggling dogs bring a smile to whoever sees them and they brighten any room.

Each one is a little different.

New Folk Art Horse

2011-04-04T17:23:00.002-04:00

This folk art horse is about 7 inches tall - her mane is wool yarn and her blanket is wool.

She is made from wood and hand painted.

New Juggling Dog!

2011-03-27T13:27:00.002-04:00

Here's another of our very talented juggling dogs!

She is perched on a cube of wood and is leaning back to show off her talents.

She's a real circus girl - always draws a big crowd and a smile.

She stands about 11 inched tall to the tops of her juggling balls. Made from wood and a brass wire holds the wooden balls.

Hand painted. - original BlueBell design.

Ahoy Mates! Boat Folk Art

2011-03-27T13:25:00.001-04:00

Ahoy mates! This folk art boat is ready to sail (on your shelf that is) - she stands about 11 inches tall and 8 inches wide.

Made from wood and hand painted she is flying some brightly painted flags on the two wooden masts.

Her bumper guards are beautiful glass beads.

This is a one-of-a-kind piece!

Black Crow Wall Art

2011-03-23T07:46:00.002-04:00

This unique wall art piece combines beautiful hand appliquéd embroidery and a wooden folk art black crow.

The background is a meadow scene in warm colors - reminiscent of a summer day.

The piece is about 13 x 13 inches and comes ready to hang with a wire hanger on the back.

This is a one of a kind piece.

The black folk art crow is about 5 inches tall and made from poplar, hand shaped and painted in subtle blacks.

The box/frame is made from wood.

Angel Dog Folk Art

2011-03-21T08:22:00.002-04:00

An Angel Dog! Gracefully flying through the air with her little gold wings. In her front paws she holds a little pink wooden heart.

This piece stands about 10.5 inches tall and is made of wood. An original design by BlueBell Folk Art.

The dog is suspended by a black wire (it's not actually a spring) and the dog will move a little even when you walk across the room. If you gently touch the tail or nose she will move back and forth for several minutes.

Made of wood and hand painted, the Angel dog is supported by a hand shaped wooden arch.

Rooster Folk Art

2011-03-16T07:44:00.003-04:00

Well... this little guy is all dressed up in his finest! He is a folk art Rooster we call Mr Red Tail.

He stands about 8 inches tall and is made of wood and hand-painted.

His body is covered with small torn circles of hand-made paper that has bits and pieces of fiber and leaves.

Available at our Etsy Store

Donkey Folk Art

2011-03-14T07:32:00.003-04:00

Meet our new Donkey Folk Art - a beautiful piece that stands about 6 inches tall on a wood base.

Our Donkey is made from wood, hand painted, has big leather ears and a cute hand stitched wool blanket.

This is a one-of-a-kind piece by Michael & Marlene available at our Etsy Store

Folk Art Dog - Juggling!

2011-03-13T09:40:00.003-04:00

What a talented guy!

This dog is having so much fun juggling - you can see it on his face and in his eyes.

It hardly look like an effort - is he a trained Circus Dog? This piece stands about 16 inches tall from the base to the top.

He is made from wood, his ears are leather and the wooden balls are strung together on a brass wire.

Available on Etsy

Chicken with Green Knees

2011-03-12T07:11:00.002-05:00

This little lady is called Chicken with Green Knees! She stands about 12 inches tall and is made of wood and hand painted.

A folk art chicken beauty that will brighten any room.

She has looong legs and cute green knees and amazing little spools for feet.

Available on Etsy

The Red Horse

2011-03-07T08:39:00.004-05:00

Here is a new piece - we call her The Red Horse!

She stands about 9 inches tall and is made of wood and hand-painted. Her flanks are dappled with a soft Cape Cod Blue and her muzzle and feet are white.

Her mane is wool, ears are leather, and her blanket is a piece of blue plaid woven wool.

Available on Etsy

Meadowlark Folk Art Wall Art

2011-02-28T07:24:00.003-05:00

This beautiful wall art Meadowlark Folk Art measures about 13 x 13 inches and comes ready to hang. (Or you can place it on a shelf!)

The background is hand embroidered cotton fabrics depicting 2 gorgeous sunflowers in a meadow. Lots of detailed stitching - a little work of art in itself.

In front of the background is a wooden folk art meadowlark - carved and hand painted. The meadowlark has its head turned and looks out at the viewer.

This is a beautiful piece combining wood folk art and hand embroidery - a one of a kind!

Available at Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/listing/69034056/meadowlark-folk-art

Mermaid Folk Art

2011-02-24T15:56:00.002-05:00

Ahoy mates!

This is a real beauty of a mermaid - sitting atop a piece of driftwood.

Our little mermaid is about 9 inches long and about 8 inches tall - the driftwood base is about 13 inches (overall length)

Hand painted with some hand carved details.

A one-of-a-kind piece!

Squirrel Folk Art

2011-02-13T13:17:00.001-05:00

If you see a squirrel like this at your backyard feeder, let me know!

This little folk art squirrel is about 5.5 inches tall - the base is about 4 inches across.

Our squirrel is painted with a pattern of soft gold colored leaves.

She is made of wood (including the acorns!)and hand painted.

Pine Siskin Folk Art Bird

2011-02-03T08:18:00.002-05:00

There is a pretty little bird we see here in Vermont every once in a while - she is kind of shy but very pretty - she's a Pine Siskin.

Our little bird is a folk art version - not an exact replica - but real cute.

She stands about 6.5 inches tall and is made from pine! Hand painted and one-of-a-kind.

Cat Fish Mermaid?

2011-01-31T17:52:00.001-05:00

What happens when you combine a cat - a fish and a mermaid? Well... I really don't know, but look at what a beauty she is!

This folk art piece is about 7 inches tall (with the base) and about 7 inches across.

Made of wood and hand-painted, this piece is a one-of-a-kind.

Folk Art Tabby Cat

2011-01-31T17:51:00.002-05:00

This little wooden folk art tabby cat is really cute - a sweet little 'primitive' face and her tail wraps up and around.

She is about 7 inches tall and 8 inches wide. Hand painted and one-of-a-kind.

Download our Catalog!

2011-01-28T08:13:00.003-05:00

Here is our current Etsy Catalog that you can download and flip through!

Bird box with Chocolates

2011-01-23T16:43:00.001-05:00

What could be better than a cute little hand made box with a darling bluebird on top?

Well.... what about if the box was filled with Lake Champlain Dark Chocolate Hearts?

This little box is about 5 inches tall with the bird and about 2.5 inches across - small enough to fit just about anywhere.

Inside are 6 red foil wrapped Vermont Lake Champlain Dark Chocolates! The perfect Valentines gift!

Valentines Birds with glass heart beads

2011-01-23T16:42:00.002-05:00

Oh... how French! This beautiful wooden bird is painted in soft grays with touches of rose cloud and metallic gold.

She is about 7 inches tall and around her neck, held with a small piece of natural help cord, is a beautiful hand made glass heart shaped bead.

Owl Wall Art Piece - NEW!

2011-01-23T16:38:00.002-05:00

Marlene made an appliquéd owl piece 2 years ago (not in the box) and this year we finally gave it a good home in one of our new wall art boxes.

The piece is about 10 x 13 inches and looks beautiful on a wall, or it can sit on a shelf.

The little owls in the front are made to look like the fabric bird.

Chicken with Chicks Wall Art

2011-01-17T09:26:00.002-05:00

This beautiful chicken is keeping a close eye out on her little chicks! They look just like her...

This unique, one-of-a-kind wall art piece measures 10 X 12 inches and comes ready-to-hang - or it can sit on a shelf.

The background is hand appliquéd and embroidered fabric. The small chicks are made from wood and have little brass wire legs.

The colors are soft and earthy and the box is hand made and painted.

Seneca and Lad - finished

2011-01-14T17:37:00.002-05:00

Well here they are!

This is one of the most fun pieces we've done in a while.

I really liked the idea Marlene came up with about the stick and the ball - and the sketch was close to what I expected.

But now they are together, I can see what a great pose this really is!

Seneca and Lad - getting the positions

2011-01-11T15:36:00.002-05:00

The painting of the dog's isn't done yet, but at this point I like to see how things are shaping up.

I am holding the two dogs in their basic position - and I will move them around a bit to see what pose looks the best.

Sennie is going to be riding on Lad's back - holding a stick that reaches out in front of Lad - and there will be a ball on a string - right in front of his face!

But they are having fun!

Seneca and Lad - working on Lad

2011-01-11T15:31:00.002-05:00

Here I am working on Lad.

Lad's a black lab so I start with a base coat of black paint.

All black dogs aren't left all black (one coat of paint) - we need to go in and add some highlights of gray's, blues and other colors - to make the body look like light is reflecting off the fur.

Another challenge!

Seneca and Lad - working on Sennie

2011-01-11T15:25:00.004-05:00

The basic shapes are cut out for the two dogs (Lad and Sennie). The legs are also glued on.

I am working on some details on Sennie - adding her ears and some shading.

In this picture I am scribing some lines to represent her long silky fur. It's always a challenge to depict a fluffy dog with smooth wood.

Folk Art Dog and Bird

2011-01-09T12:18:00.001-05:00

Do we always know what happens when we let our dog out?

This little guy has found a new fried - I think he wishes we was a bird dog so we could fly like this little bird. He is standing on his back legs saying hello. His ears are leather.

This piece stands about 12 inches tall. Made of wood and hand-pained - this is a one-of-a-kind piece.

Seneca and Lad - a sketch for a custom piece

2011-01-04T08:06:00.005-05:00

Meet Seneca (Sennie) and Lad - we're going to be making a custom dog piece with these 2 beautiful dogs having some fun together.

Marlene came up with this idea of how we could have the two dogs together - Seneca is small enough to ride on Lad's back (maybe she's actually done this!) and of course they love ball - so here is a sketch of the idea!

Of course they will be done in wood - we make these colored pencil sketches to get a starting point- something visual to work from - sometimes interesting things happen as we go along...

New Folk Art Pieces from bluebellfolkart.com

2010-12-27T15:06:00.002-05:00

Here a a few new pieces of our wooden folk art animals - see more at bluebellfolkart.com

Cris Tobal the Salt Cod Automata

2010-12-19T11:48:00.002-05:00

Anyone who knows this classic Cristobal Salt Cod product from their supermarket fish section will enjoy this little piece. It is an 'automata' (a moving piece of art) - turn the handle and Cris Tobal (the cod fish) spins around. It's a simple movement but lots of fun. Click here

Horse Folk Art - new piece

2010-12-18T08:53:00.002-05:00

Horse folk art by Bluebell Folk Art - stands about 8 inches tall with base, wood and wool yarn - Click Here

Chicken Folk Art Tsunami

2010-12-17T12:43:00.002-05:00

Here are several new wooden chicken & rooster folk art pieces we have recently added. All hand made and original designs. Click here

Juggling Dog Automata

2010-12-10T08:34:00.003-05:00

A new automata - the juggling dog.

When you turn the handle the little guy goes back and forth - not a big movement but the mechanism is really cool.

These new pieces are about 10 inches tall - I am trying to make some more simple ones.

I love making these automata and you will be seeing more!

The next one is going to be made from the little wooden box the dried salt cod comes in. It will be a cod fish automata.

Angel Dog Automata

2010-12-10T08:32:00.003-05:00

Here is a little automata of an angel dog.

The handle is a beautiful piece of driftwood.

When you turn the handle the angel spins and goes up and down.

Horse

2010-12-10T08:26:00.004-05:00

We have made a couple of horses and there will be more designs coming - they are very popular.

This horse is about 9 inches tall and has wool yarn for the tail and mane. The blanket is wool (still using those wool scrapes you gave us Karen!!)

She has great eyes!

The Girls

2010-12-10T08:23:00.002-05:00

Here are some very popular Angel Ornaments that Marlene makes.

These have been selling out at the Vermont Folk Life Center.

The Angels are about 4 inches tall. Each one is different.

You can click the image to see a larger version.

Dog Ornaments

2010-12-10T08:21:00.003-05:00

We have been busy making ornaments for the Vermont Folk Life Center!

Here are some wooden dogs with little wire hangers.

You can click the image to see a larger version.

Marlene did the drawings!

Custom Dogdog

2010-12-10T08:18:00.002-05:00

One of the challenges of doing the custom dogs is when the dog is soft and fluffy and has long hair!

The wood does not lend itself to these types of dog.

So Marlene came up with this idea to create a wood dog portrait. We have circus, woodland, garden, interior and house backgrounds.

Baaaaah Baaaaah...

2010-12-10T08:17:00.003-05:00

This is another variation on our 'primitive' sheep - this one has antique cut nails for legs.

Juggling Dog

2010-12-10T08:15:00.002-05:00

One of my favorites - as you know, is the juggling dog - this time he's seated on a pedestal - but still very talented.

Goat Folk Art

2010-12-10T08:14:00.002-05:00

Goat are very popular animals! Here is our newest goat.

The Cow

2010-12-10T08:13:00.000-05:00

Here is a new animal for us - a funky cow, walking along and having a great time.

Dylan - finished

2010-12-10T08:11:00.001-05:00

Well... here he is! Meet Mr Dylan.

Dylan - assembly

2010-12-10T08:08:00.002-05:00

Now he's starting to take shape -

The legs are on and I'm testing different poses and getting ready to add the juggling parts and work on the base.

Dylan - painting begins

2010-12-10T08:06:00.002-05:00

Work continues on Dylan - here I am painting the face and eyes.

The basic body is complete and now is the time I start working on the details. I have several photos to work from.

Dylan - rough cut

2010-11-07T13:56:00.006-05:00

Here I am working on Dylan - this is the rough cut for the body - the first step in getting the basic shape.

His legs are not cut yet - but these Corgi's are short, stocky dogs so the legs will be short and give him that classic Corgi look.

Oh yes... and BIG ears!

Meet Dylan!

2010-11-06T10:58:00.007-04:00

Here is a new custom dog - starring Dylan, an unbelievably cute Corgi!

Dylan is so cute he needs a license.

And here he is in real life. It looks like he's waiting to be invited to jump on the bed - but most likely he'll hop up there whenever he wants....

Dylan (the custom wood version) is going to be juggling.

It all begins with a rough sketch. Below is the little sketch of what I am thinking for the piece. Dylan will stand about 12 or so inches tall (including the base). He will be perched on a wood base. Stay tuned for more progress images as Dylan comes to life (in wood).

Goat

2010-11-05T08:07:00.002-04:00

A new animal - this time a goat!

He stands about 8 inch tall and has a little bit of wool for his beard.

Great eyes and a nice smile.

Red Cardinal

2010-11-01T08:41:00.002-04:00

You can't miss a Red Cardinal when it is in the back yard.

Marlene and I call these beautiful birds 'flying tomatoes' - the red is so bright in the spring and summer.

This Folk Art Cardinal is about 8 inches long and stands about 9 inches tall with the base.

He is made of wood and hand painted.

You will not see a Cardinal at your feeder with these patterns but for this bird it's perfect.

Angel Doll

2010-11-01T08:38:00.002-04:00

Angels are special to all of us!

This beautiful Angel Doll is 13 inches tall.

She is made from cotton, hand sewn, and has sticks for legs and arms.

She folds at the waist so she can also sit and she has a button on the back of her dress for hanging.

She is perfect for the Christmas season but looks great all year round!

Nuthatch wall art

2010-10-30T08:15:00.004-04:00

This new wall art piece is about 11 x 13 inches and projects out from the wall about 3 inches.

The bird depicted is not an exact copy of a nuthatch - but she is immediately recognizable as a little red breasted nuthatch.

Marlene did her usual amazing work on the background creating a feeling of a woodland setting. All hand-stitched in cottons and wool - soft, earthy colors and lots of detailed stitching.

The nuthatch bird is made from poplar.

You can click on the image to see a larger view and this second picture shows some of the detail on the background and the bird.

Who...who... OWL

2010-10-26T08:32:00.002-04:00

This is the second owl Marlene made out of wool and buttons.

She's about 6 inches tall and has button eyes as well as a small button on her back so you can hang her as an ornament.

The colors are earthy and natural - hand stitched.

This little pig stayed home...

2010-10-26T08:29:00.003-04:00

Some pigs skip going to market and stay home to play.

This little guy is having fun on his rocking toy!

He's about 5 inches tall (total size) and about 8 inches long - made of wood with leather ears and a squigley wire tail.

OK - I've got chickens out of my system....

2010-10-19T08:15:00.003-04:00

This beautiful chicken is about 13 inches tall with her base.

She is made of poplar and hand painted with a pattern of flowers, vines and leaves. Her little 'hat' is made from wool felt.

She is really the most elegant chicken in the hen house - all the others are green with envy.

I'm 'chickened' out for a while!

On to new pieces - we have a pig, goat, owl and cardinal on the way!

Another chicken!

2010-10-18T08:20:00.004-04:00

If you haven't already noticed we love those funky chickens!

This one stands about 15 inches tall - and she is sitting on a base that looks a little like an egg. Well - that should make her feel at home (or coop)

It will take a while for this egg to hatch so in the mean time you can enjoy the two of them together.

Did you know the Paul Simon song Mother and Child Reunion was about a chicken and an egg? It was inspired by a menu item in a Chinese restaurant that featured chicken and eggs.

Mr Rooster

2010-10-13T18:02:00.004-04:00

Well - isn't this guy all dressed up!

This rooster grew from parts and pieces I had laying around the bench.

I love to recycle wood! Even the scrap pieces end up as wings, arms and beaks and those 'gobble' things on the chickens.

He's about 14 inches tall.

Bluebird of happiness

2010-10-13T17:59:00.002-04:00

This little bird started out to be part of one of our fabric boxes but she ended up a wee bit too big.

So now she is on her own - perched atop a nice base. This bird (with the base) is about 8 inches tall.

Along-necked goose

2010-10-13T17:54:00.003-04:00

Here is a new piece we just finished.

It's a graceful goose who may need a chiropractic adjustment!

Just kidding.... this is one curvy goose.

This piece is about 18 inches long and about 15 inches tall. The base is solid wood.

Made from 5/4 pine, hand painted in antique white with a little copper paint and a 'smudge' of black pastel to make it look antique.

Chick with long neck

2010-10-03T14:49:00.003-04:00

Some times you really have to reach to get that piece of corn!

This chicken has the neck to reach anything around her.

She stands about 12 inches tall and has some wire detail for her wings, top and tail feathers.

This piece is made of poplar and black wire - hand painted

The Cow Jumps Over the Moon...

2010-09-13T09:35:00.006-04:00

Here is a new fabric and wood piece we just finished!

Hey, diddle, diddle!

The cat and the fiddle,

The cow jumped over the moon;

The little dog laughed

To see such sport,

And the dish ran away with the spoon.

Remember that rhyme?

This piece is about 12 x 13 inches square.

The cat with the fiddle and the cow are made from wood and the background is a fabric appliqué.

This is a night scene, naturally - the cow would not jump over the moon during the day - and Marlene has captured a moonlit night using darker shades of fabric -cottons and wools.

The detailing on the fabric is great - and there is a little pond in the foreground that has three shiny silver fish and a little turtle approaching the pond. The windows on the houses are gold wool felt and look like they are lit up.

The cat playing the fiddle stands on the lower right side of the box - she is stomping her paws to the music as the cow leaps over the moon.

Juggling Dog

2010-09-13T09:13:00.004-04:00

Here is a new juggling dog - but this time the dog is much larger scale than we usually make.

The dog is about 11 - 12 inches tall - normally we make the dogs about 7 - 8 inch tall. The difference in size of the dog makes the piece look quite different - although from the image here he looks like the others. See him in 'person' at the Flea Market - Saturday at the Town Hall Theater.

This piece is more like the size of the first Circus Dog we ever made several years ago.

Angel Sisters

2010-09-13T09:09:00.003-04:00

Meet the Angel Sisters - actually this is only 2 of the sister's - there are 2 more on the way. Each one is a little different.

These little dolls are about 4 -5 inches tall and made from wool (thanks Karen!), lace, beads, metal findings and sticks. The wings are silk flow petals.

You will be able to see these little angels at the Flea Market on Saturday.

The Bank Display is Up!

2010-09-01T07:59:00.005-04:00

Here is a preview of the bank display - if you have some time - check it out during the month of September. Special thanks to Greg Beck!

Clarence the Cat

2010-08-30T15:55:00.004-04:00

Here is another cat!

This is Clarence - a rather 'primitive' cat but quite the character.

Clarence stands about 5 inches tall and sports a wire tail and wire whiskers on a rather plump nose.

My cat designs don't look anything like our dogs but they are funky.

Whenever we do a show people always ask for cats - this year we'll have a couple of new ones.

Stay tuned for a new fabric/wood box Marlene & I are working on - The Cow Jumps Over the Moon!

Marlene is working on the background now and it will be beautiful...

I have to wait a while before I cut out the cow until I see the size of the background.

Leaping Dog - Get that Ball!

2010-08-30T15:47:00.003-04:00

Last week when I was working at a client's computer in Ripton, I had a long, long scan to wait for so I started reading a Bhuddist newspaper. Somewhere on page 50 or so I saw this little ad for a book and the cover art showed this person juggling and a little dog jumping to get the ball.

That was the inspiration for the piece.

People often ask how we come up with the ideas - well know you know the secret - keep your eyes and mind open! There is art in everything.

This little guy stands about 9 inches tall - the ball is on the end of a wire - sometimes a breeze will start the ball moving like a pendulum - pretty neat.

The Cat & Mouse Game

2010-08-22T19:52:00.006-04:00

This fabric piece is one of Marlene's first creations in appliqué.

She made this piece several years ago and only recently did we 're-discover' it to use in one of our new box frames.

Sitting atop the frame is a wood cat, made to look like her fabric counterpart.

Thne below, along the edge of the frame is a small wooden mouse wondering what all the fuss is about.

The appliquéd cat is on a fabric 'carpet' having a rest. The colors are soft and muted with a small checkerboard print to frame the cat.

There are small buttons and some interesting stitching around the edges.

At one time we were going to make this into a pillow and for a while we had her framed - but we both agree - this is where she belongs!

Below are some details of the cat sitting on the top of the frame...

And here is the little mouse - since I took this photo, I have added some detail to the mouse's sweater.

Meet Mr. Garcia

2010-08-22T10:55:00.006-04:00

This is a new piece combining our wood folk art and Marlene's beautiful hand appliqué.

(you can click on the image to get a closer view - then use the back button to come back here.)

Meet Mr Garcia - he's out for a ride on his trusty horse - Adonia (that Spanish for beautiful lady).

The background fabric piece is all earthy Southwestern colors - adobe, turquoise blue, warm yellow and sage greens.

Marlene starts by piecing together the basic main colors. Next, they are washed and dried to wrinkle the fabric and feather the edges - this produces a great look.

Now all the details go on with lots of hand stitching, adding beads and other objects (2 birds)

The wood figure is about 5 inches tall - Mr Garcia sits atop Adonia and she is looking back at him with big eyes - did he just tell her a joke?

They are enjoying their ride across a stretch of desert.

Here is a closeup of Mr Garcia. You can also see some detail and texture on the fabrics.

Adirondack Chair

2010-08-22T10:50:00.004-04:00

Here is another balancing and juggling dog!

This time he is perched on a blue Adirondack chair.

Originally he was going to be doing a hand-stand on the chair but when I was fooling around with positions he looked cool standing - then I added the balls.

This piece is about 12 inches tall - the main color on the dog is a 'parchment yellow' with dark brown spots.