Friday, December 14, 2007

MOSAIC MADNESS

Sometimes it’s worth rethinking things before trying to write about them. Over a month ago, I mentioned I planned to write about mosaics.
At the time, I planned to feature projects made from broken china and the artists who created these romantic decorating items.Somehow, I never got around to posting about mosaics, but while the topic was on the backburner, I had time to think about the real meaning of mosaics.
The superlative in patterned surfaces, mosaics are designs composed of small pieces of ceramics, colored glass, stone or ANYTHING.In addition to today’s post, between today and New Year's Eve, I will be showcasing the work of several mosaic artists who work in odd and interesting mediums, and explaining how to make your own designs. So stay tuned…The great thing about mosaics is that almost anyone can create dazzling one-of-a-kind pieces.
All you need is something you want to cover and an assortment of small “stuff”. The stuff part is where your creativity comes in. You can use broken bits of flea-market plates, tiles, glass beads, marbles, or whatever catches your fancy.
You may be surprised at some of the stuff folks use to make mosaics.

Photo Credits:
Birdhouse: design by Ellen Wolynec, photo by Dan Mayers
Floor border: design by Diane Gould
Blue birdbath: design by Diane Gould
Hummingbird birdbath: design by Charlen of Second Time Around Mosaics,
Cleopatra's eyes: design by Mosaic Marble

*** BLOG DU JOUR ***
Penny Carlson of Lavender Hill Studio will be my first featured mosaic artist ,but you can get a sneak preview of her work -- and gorgeous home --on her blog.

18 comments:

Alison Gibbs said...

Thanks for posting on mosaics. It is amazing what some people create. Look forward to your feature on penny. She does some beautiful work.
Alison

Vee said...

Barbara, thank you for visiting my little blog. Come back any time!

Now, you certainly sound as if you have had an interesting life and career. How very exciting about the new decorating book! Hearty congrats to you!! Is this what is keeping you so busy?

And, I see your picture taken in Maine. Cool! :)

Garden Antqs Vintage said...

Barbara: I've been a fan of yours for so many years, I've followed you through many magazines. I'm so glad you found me and I'm going to add you to my favorites. Please visit anytime! Merry Christmas, Theresa-Garden Antqs

Anonymous said...

Love to see all the beautiful things that can be done with mosiacs. I have a few craft books on the hobby but haven't tried it out yet. I'm feeling a bit inspired now to tackle a project.

I really love the little bird baths.



Lisa
http://lisatutmanoglesby.typepad.com/my_weblog/

FarmHouse Style said...

I have admired Penny's creations for some time now. She does incredible work and she is just a sweetheart:)

Thank you for stopping by to visit me today. I am really looking forward to using the ideas in the Cath Kidston's book in my own home.

I will check back in to see your feature on Penny.

Have a great weekend.
Rhonda

The Old Painted Cottage said...

Dear Barbara,

I so enjoyed these most unique mosaic projects..especially the floor border. Fantastic!

I was excited to see you featured Penny in your post. She is a very talented and lovely lady indeed.

Thank you for stopping by my blog!

oxox
Jennifer

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Hi Barbara!
Thank you so much making me the Blog Du Jour today! Mosaics are so much fun. You are right, there are so many different surfaces to mosaic and so many mediums to use. I look forward to seeing all of the different mosaic artists you will feature.
Penny

Ele at abitofpinkheaven said...

Penny Carlson is amazing. mosaic art is so beautiful. My favorite are the works made out of old china.

Free Art Printables said...

Oh I am so glad yo are going to show Penny. I love her work!
Jen R

Unknown said...

Hi Barbara,

Thanks for stopping by I am glad you enjoyed my posts. You are very welcome to visit any time.
I have been visiting you often and I must say that you are unique. I can't wait to see all the mosaic artists and their work. Of course our Penny is great I love her work, she is a true inspiration.

Wish you a great weekend! Suzy

Anonymous said...

Raising hand here, as Penny's number one fan! I look forward to reading and learning more about mosaics! Thank you Barbara!


xo,
Kim

Karen Cole said...

Barbara,

Thanks for your visit to my blog.

Congrats on your book. I look forard to seeing it.

Lovely blog!

PAT said...

I enjoyed Mosaic Madness, Barbara. I wonder if I would be able to do anything like this. I know someone who did her entire kitchen backsplash with bits and pieces of broken china. It's unusual and beautiful!

I enjoy reading Penny's blog. She is a wonderful mosaic artist.
Pat

Tutti Chic said...

Great post on mosaics Barbara! Doesn't penny do the most beautiful work? She's also a lovely person & has such a lovely Blog! Merry Christmas! :) chris

Aimee said...

I've always wanted to do a mosaic piece but never took the time. This makes me want to get it done!

Thanks for visiting my blog and for the inspiration!

cjan said...

Hi Barbara,

I love Pennys work. She is so creative!! I also enjoy her blog. She's a neat gal!

Hugs,
Jan

Angela @ Cottage Magpie said...

I adore mosaics and Penny's are spectacular! Thanks for the great post and getting the word out!
~Angela :-)

Catherine said...

Love the post on mosaic's ~look forward to more!! I am a big fan of Penny at Lavender Hill Studio..and the post about her was beautiful!
Happy Holiday's!
Cat