Lavender Hill Studio

To Lisa In Indiana....

2011-12-07T08:37:00.000-05:00

You left a comment on a post I created in 2007. I am not posting on this blog anymore, but I do get notified if there is a comment. My new blogs are:
www.thecomfortsofhome.blogspot.com
www.fleamarketmakeovers.blogspot.com

You asked a question, and you left no way to contact you so, I hope you read this....the curtains are from Country Curtains, but they were purchased in 2007 so I don't know if they still have them. You can find Country Curtains online at www.countrycurtains.com

Shop My ETSY Store!

2011-10-23T14:43:00.002-05:00

Come See My New Blog!

2011-06-29T08:08:00.002-05:00

Since Lavender Hill Studio is MUCH more than just mosaics, I am closing this blog down and starting a new one called,

Flea Market Makeovers
by Lavender Hill Studio

The new blog will still feature my mosaic work, but will also feature much more.

About My New Blog:

Welcome to Flea Market Makeovers by Lavender Hill Studio!

If you love antiquing, thrifting and going to the flea market, you will love this blog!

My name is Penny Carlson and I own Lavender Hill Studio. I love finding old cast off items and fixing them up to give them a new life. From furniture to fabric and salvage to silver plate, anything is fair game.

Come along with me as we go to flea markets, antique stores and more. I will be taking my video camera along with me on some of my shopping trips, so you can see the whole process of reinventing a piece. I will show you what I look out for and what I avoid.

Then we will go back to the studio, and I will get to work. You will see amazing transformations in before and after photos. I will post tutorials from time to time.

So head on over to Flea Market Makeovers by Lavender Hill Studio and sign up as a follower. You won't want to miss a single post! Simply click on the link at the beginning of this post or on my sidebar.

I will leave this blog up so you can always go back and see older posts.
I hope to see you there!

Penny

Celebrating La Joie De Vivre

2011-05-20T18:44:00.000-05:00

Do you know about Belle Inspiration? It is a wonderful bi-monthly E-Magazine based in Paris France. The creator of this wonderful e-magazine is Mimi Bleu, and this is how she describes Belle Inspiration,

"Belle Inspiration is your rendez-vous with good taste and style. Published bi-monthly and delivered to you in a digital flip-page format.

Based in Paris France, our international team of contributors are all about a romantic style of living, and enjoying the simple things that can make your day more beautiful.

Each issue will profile practical and versatile ideas coupled with beautiful images, unique boutiques, wallet-friendly solutions for interiors, food and fashion.

Meet business-minded women and discover how they launched their dreams. We endeavor to be your online escape, a small respite during your busy day. For you, your family, your home, your life!"

Photo courtesy of Belle Inspiration

The current issue is filled with wonderful articles about roses, French lavender, antiquing in France and much more.

Do you see what is in the bottom right corner of the picture above? Yes, that is one of my mosaic birdhouses! I was so fortunate to be interviewed by Eileen Bradway for the current issue of Belle Inspiration!

You can click on the link on my side bar to read the article or you can go to Belle Inspiration to sign up and receive this wonderful magazine!

Thank you Mimi and Eileen! I am honored that you wanted to feature me in your beautiful magazine!

A Quick Follow Up

2011-05-11T13:13:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to do a quick follow up on the post a did a few weeks back, about spending time in my backyard instead of in the studio.

I had mentioned everypatiofurniture as a place I was looking for some more goodies for my backyard garden. I found something I really love!

I ordered this potting bench from everypatiofurniture and it arrived quickly. Mr. Lavender Hill Studio, put it together in a jiffy.

I have wanted one of these for years and I am thrilled to pieces with it!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Don't forget to head over to my new blog Flea Market Makeovers to enter my giveaway!

Coming Soon!

2011-05-10T08:21:00.000-05:00

I have been playing around with an idea for several months now. Actually ever since I had my shoulder surgery last December.

I am going to close down my Lavender Hill Studio blog and start a new blog that encompasses all that I do in my studio. I do more than mosaics. I make-over flea market, thrift store and auction items too,

In the new blog, I will be taking you a long with me to flea markets, thrift stores and antiquing. I will have a video camera with me on some of the outings.

Then we will come back to the studio, and make things over. Some items will be painted, some will be turned into lamps. Some I will mosaic.

I will show you before and after photos and some video how-to tutorials.

Sound like fun? The new blog will debut in June. I will be having a giveaway on the the new blog when it debuts. Sign up now as a follower on Flea Market Makeovers to be entered in the giveaway.

To sign up as a follower, simply click on this link, Flea Market Makeovers and sign up under Followers on the side bar.

Penny

Less Time In The Studio, More Time In The Backyard

2011-04-27T09:38:00.001-05:00

If you are thinking I have not been creating very many mosaic pieces lately, you are correct.

I have been spending time in my backyard, getting it ready for summer. Last fall we created a fire pit area and took our back porch furniture off of the porch and placed it around the firepit. See the picture below.

Now, I want to put this back on the porch and get 4 comfy all weather chairs to sit around the firepit. I think chairs are more flexable that loveseats.

I found the one below at everypatiofurniture and I love it. It looks very similar to my back porch furniture, don't you think?
Ebony Chair

I have also been working on painting my kitchen furniture. I have been having trouble with the top of the table. It makes me wonder if it would have been smarted to sell my set and buy a new already painted one, like the one I found at Dining Furniture in the picture below.

American Drew Casual Dining Table

I will be back in my studio soon....once I get this all figured out - lol.

Penny

The Finished Birdhouse

2011-04-15T11:49:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of the finished birdhouse I am entering in the Grove Park Inn's 12 Annual Decorated Birdhouse Competition.

To see more pictures, you can click here to go to my Comforts of Home Blog.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Birdhouse Contest

2011-04-13T12:42:00.001-05:00

I am entering a decorated birdhouse contest sponsored by the Grove Park Inn and Resort, in Asheville, NC.

Grove Park Inn and Resort is a beautiful hotel here in Asheville that is 98 years old. Many famous people have stayed here, most recently President Obama and The First Lady. Other visitors have included, F Scott Fitzgerald, Harry Houdini, Will Rogers, George Gershwin, Thomas Edison, Eleanor Roosevelt and Henry Ford. Not to mention presidents — William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Richard M. Nixon, George H. W. Bush, William J. Clinton.

The contest is this Saturday, April 16th. As you can see, I am not finished yet~! Back to the studio I go.

The Grove Park Inn and Resort, also host a Ginger Bread House contest every December and it is featured on Good Morning America.

I will show the finished birdhouse on Friday...

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Mirror Mirror on The Wall...

2011-03-04T09:33:00.003-05:00

This sweet trumeau mirror has found a home far away from me.

Last December Karla and Kerrie from The Summer Kitchen Girls purchased this mosaic teapot lamp from me for their Mom for Christmas.

Their mom had seen a mirror on my website and had fallen in love with it, but it had been sold and it was too large for the space. So Kerrie and Karla commissioned me to make a smaller version of the mirror to match the lamp, as a surprise for their mom.

To hear more about it and to see the two pieces together, go visit Kerrie and Karla at the Summer Kitchen Girls.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Sweet Petite Mosaic Sugar Bowl Lamp

2011-02-09T10:38:00.000-05:00

This little sweetie is a commissioned piece. It is heading off to it's new home tomorrow.

Next up...a mosaic mirror...

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

HUGE, HUGE SALE ON COUNTRY FRENCH TABLE!

2011-02-03T14:48:00.000-05:00

This beautiful Country French Farmhouse Table is now on sale.

REG. $699

NOW ONLY $350!

plus shipping of only $25.

The chairs are also available, including custom red toile and black checked cushions for an additional $25 each plush shipping.

You can learn more about this table or to purchase it, click here, Lavender Hill Studio .

Layaway is available on this item. Email me for details at http://www.lavenderhillstudio.com/

Perfect Gift For The Romantic!

2010-12-01T11:07:00.001-05:00

This sweet romantic silver plated mosaic tray is now available here at Lavender Hill Studio.

I am joining Sandi at Whistlestop Cafe for Friday Favorites.

Playing in the Studio,

2010-08-31T13:29:00.001-05:00

Now Available at

Lavender Hill Studio

Rustic and refined, burlap coffee sacks were used to create these one of a kind functional pieces.

To learn more about these pieces or to purchase...for the foot stool click here.

For the bench, click here.

More burlap coffee sack items to come.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Look Whats New!

2010-08-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

Looks what new at Lavender Hill Studio!

Remember the mosaic teapot lamp I showed you in the last post? Well, here is a matching mosaic heart to hang on the wall.

I can just see this hanging on a wall surrounded by vintage rose plates, can't you? To purchase this mosiac heart, click here for details.

I have been very busy in the studio! Look at this sweet petite mosaic silver tray.

It has the cutest little silver ball feet.

This sweet tray is also available...click here for details.

Romantic Mosaic Teapot Lamp

2010-08-06T11:59:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures of the mosaic teapot lamp I have been working on. I love the fabric on the shade and the way it goes so well with the broken vintage china mosaics.

Available to purchase in my online boutique, Lavender Hill Studio. Click here for more information or to purchase.

I am currently working on a mosaic heart using the same china that I used here in the teapot. It should be finished early next week.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Another Glimpse

2010-08-02T15:01:00.000-05:00

I know....I know. It's Monday and I thought I would have the teapot lamp finished. I still have to cover the lamp shade.

Don't you just love this fabric?

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Coming Soon - Mosaic Teapot Lamp

2010-07-31T12:10:00.000-05:00

I am almost finished with a sweet mosaic teapot lamp. Here is a little teaser....

It should be finished by Monday, some come back and check it out!

Playing in the Studio

Penny

French Country and Swedish Inspiration

2010-07-28T15:31:00.004-05:00

Picture from Jeanne d' Arc Living 4th Edition

Lately I have really been inspired by French Country and Swedish painted furniture. I am drawn to the aged greys and chalky whites. Pale pink just seems to go with both of those colors.

Remember this vintage smoking stand I showed you a while back? This was actually left in a previous home we purchased.

Here is what it looks like now....

Available now at Lavender Hill Studio Boutique...To find out more about this item, click here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Vintage Glove Mold

2010-07-25T12:47:00.001-05:00

Now in Stock

Vintage Glove Molds

Use them to hold your jewelry...

To welcome guests to your home.

Display your menu on them at your next brunch or dinner party...

Or direct your friends to the garden, beach or pool.

These vintage glove molds were originally used in factories to create household gloves. They have wonderful patina, that comes with age. The black slate like material is perfect for writing on with chalk.

11 Available at Lavender Hill Studio, just click here.

I am linking this post with Susan at Met Monday....what better metamorphosis than turning a glove mold into a jewelry holder?

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Grapevine Balls

2010-07-23T15:15:00.000-05:00

Now available at Lavender Hill Studio

Grapevine Balls

Available in sets of three. The small sized group is show above.

The larger sized group above.

These are the same type of grapevine balls I use to decorate in my home. They look wonderful on a mantel, tabletop or on the top of an iron urn by your front door.

Only 1 large set and 2 small sets available.

For details or to purchase, click here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

French Decoupage Rooster

2010-07-14T14:10:00.002-05:00

Ooh La La!

I decoupaged this LARGE rooster with vintage authentic French letters dating from 1904 and a vintage French song book dated 1929.

Each piece of vintage paper was hand torn (not cut) and placed on the rooster.

For fun....look how handsome he is with a frayed burlap scarf!

One of a kind piece of French art for your home. Available here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Tole Trays!

2010-07-13T09:54:00.000-05:00

Just listed! 8 Tole Trays in Lavender Hill Studio Online Shop.

Pinks, Greens, Aquas, Blacks, Whites!

All Sizes and Shapes!

So perfectly Shabby!

Check them out, Here, Here and Here.

French Country Transferware Mosaic Jug

2010-06-13T11:30:00.002-05:00

I am participating in Susan's Between Naps on The Porch Met Monday.

A while back, I posted a sneak peak of a project I was working on, here. Some of you guessed it might be a flower pot. You were kind of close...

It is actually a jug - jar - vase.

In the picture above taken in my old house last year, on top of the tall cabinet in the right of the picture, you can see a red jug.

Here it is now....

I used several colors of vintage china transferware. Red, blue, brown, green and a little black weave their way around the jug.

I love the old world French Country, English Cottage, Tuscan look of it.

Available at Lavender Hill Studio, here

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

A Patriotic Birdhouse

2010-06-06T19:58:00.001-05:00

I am linking this post with Susan's Between Naps on the Porch, Met Monday. Be sure to visit her and see all of the wonderful before and afters!

I have a client that loves transferware, Blue Willow in particular. She asked if I could make a Patriotic Birdhouse, using red and blue transferware.

I started out with an unfinished birdhouse. First the round peak needed to be trimmed off so the mosaics would work. Then a chimney had to be made and attached.

Next came the fun. See how lovely it turned out!

If you would like a custom made birdhouse, please email me.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Working on Two Projects

2010-06-03T11:25:00.000-05:00

Here is what is happening in the studio....

This is a birdhouse...come back Monday to see the finished pictures.

And this is a mystery project. Sign up as a follower and see what it turns out to be!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Sweet Mosaic Sugar Bowl Lamp

2010-05-27T13:05:00.000-05:00

I have been spending more time outside than in the studio! I know I promise to mosaic the vintage smoking stand, but I have a couple of commission pieces to do first.

Here is the first one...

My client had just painted her kitchen yellow and wanted a mosaic sugar bowl light to go with her color scheme.

Pretty yellow roses on vintage china were used to create this piece. I covered the lampshade with a pretty yellow and white check.

Next, I am working on a birdhouse.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

$1.00 SALE!!!!

2010-05-01T12:35:00.002-05:00

$1.00 SALE!

Now through May 29th, you can purchase my "How To Mosaic A Tray" Ebook for just $1.00! It normally sells for $9.95.

Simply go to Lavender Hill Studio, by clicking HERE and type in Dollar Sale in the coupon code at check out.

I know a few of you have had problems with the coupon code. I think I have it fixed, if it doesn't work, please email me at lavenderhillstudio@att.net.

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

p.s. I am too busy working in the garden to be in the studio, but hope to get back into the studio in another week.

Furniture It Is!

2010-04-06T13:11:00.000-05:00

I'm back from vacation! All rested and ready to starting working on a new mosaic piece.

Before I left 3 weeks ago, I asked you all to take a poll on what you wanted me to mosaic next.

Looks like furniture won! So my next project will be this cute vintage smoking stand.

The inside is lined in copper. Think how cute this would be as a little side table by a cozy chair. Or next to the bathtub, filled with bath salts and topped with candles.

Now I just have to decide what color to paint it and what china to use....do you have any suggestions?

BTW, I am having a giveaway on my other blog, The Comforts of Home. Stop by and sign up. The deadline is April 12th

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

So I Am Wondering....

2010-03-12T19:37:00.002-05:00

I am wondering what you would like to see next in a mosaic piece????

Please take the poll on my sidebar and let me know what you would like to see me create next. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Clocks

Flower Pots

Furniture

Birdhouses

Teapot Lamps

While I wait for you to vote for the piece you want me to mosaic next....

I am taking a short blog break....I have a lot to do in the next few weeks. I have also temporarily closed my online store. It will reopen April 5th. Sign up as a follower, and you will be notified when I post again. It will probably be the first week of April.
p.s. I have turned off the comments to this post, but please take the poll on my side bar...thanks! xoxo

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Another Birdhouse....on SALE!

2010-03-10T19:19:00.000-05:00

This sweet birdhouse is unusal for me. I created a special stand for this one. The stand is made from a vintage porch banister from New England and the base is a vintage plate turned upside down and covered in the same mosaics that the bird house is covered in.

I can add the sweet brown bird to the opening of the birdhouse if you wish for no extra charge.

To see the birdhouse on all sides, click here. This birdhouse sells for $199 plus shipping, but ONE DAY ONLY Thursday, March 11th it is 25% OFF! That means it will sell for $149.50, plus shipping. Payment must be made at time of purchase, so this item will ship Friday, March 12th. To receive the 25% discount on this birdhouse, type in the words "bird house" without the quotes in the coupon code at checkout.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

For a "Sweet" Friend

2010-03-09T23:19:00.000-05:00

A while back, Becky from Sweet Cottage Dreams emailed me. She asked if I could create a mosaic birdhouse for her.

After a couple of emails, we came up with a brown and cream color scheme, using the plates below and the sweet bird below.

Here is the finished birdhouse.

I really enjoyed making this for Becky. She was so easy to create for.

Becky took some pictures of the birdhouse and posted them on her blog today. Her pictures are so much better than mine! So to see how pretty this really turned out, click here.

Becky has a wonderful blog, filled with love and beautiful photos (and a couple of adorable dogs!). She also has a great ETSY shop. Remember my vintage croquet balls? Yep...they came from Becky!

Thank you again Becky!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

On It's Way To The Winner!

2010-02-28T20:07:00.001-05:00

Remember when Kelee from The Katillac Shack made me a Shackster? When she did, she also had a giveaway of one of my custom mosaic birdhouses.

Elyse from Tinkered Treasures won. So I emailed Elyse and asked her what she wanted in the birdhouse.

She said, "GASP!!! I love when you use aqua banded plates with pale pink roses. I would LOVE a bird and china flowers!"

So that is what I did! (you can click on any picture to enlarge for detail)

This sweet birdhouse was so much fun to create. Thank you Kelee from the Katillac Shack for sponsoring this giveaway. And thank you Elyse for being such a fun person to create for. I am humbled and honored that you would want a piece of my art in your home. It is on it's way....

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Working on a Special Birdhouse

2010-02-22T15:58:00.001-05:00

I am working on the birdhouse for the winner of Kalee's Katillac Shack giveaway.

It's going to be pinks and aquas and soooo pretty!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Is it Bigger Than a Bread Box?

2010-02-17T16:03:00.000-05:00

This pretty bread box is now on it's way to it's owner. A sweet blog friend commissioned me to mosaic a bread box for her. She found a plain old wood bread box on Ebay and had it shipped to me.

I painted it Diminutive Pink from Sherwin Williams and then started covering it with broken china and stained glass.

I added a pretty glass knob as the finishing touch.

Need anything old and ugly turned into beautiful? Let me know...

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Remember This Chair?

2010-02-16T12:30:00.000-05:00

Remember, way back in August when I started working on this chair? I had to put the project on hold because we bought this house and I had to close the studio for a while, while we packed, moved and remodeled.

Here it is in the primed stage.

And this is how it looked when you last saw it.

Here it is finished!

It is available at Lavender Hill Studio, here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

My Funny Valentine

2010-02-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

(This is a post from two years ago, I thought I would repeat it.)

I just wanted to say Happy Valentine's Day to all of my blog friends in my own special way. I wish you Sweetness and Love....

Bits and Pieces

2010-02-09T14:14:00.001-05:00

(Spoiler Warning! Jenn, don't look if you don't want to see your bread box in the middle of creation :-) )

My clean new studio is getting "broken" in. Broken plates are everywhere!

I am loving every minute of it! The mosaic birdhouse has been shipped to my sweet blog friend and as soon as she receives it, I will post pictures. This is the breadbox I am working on for another sweet blog friend.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Romantic Country Magazine

2010-02-04T13:47:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to announce that one of my mosaic pieces has been featured in the current issue Romantic Country magazine!

Look for this cover:

Here is the featured piece, it is a pretty rose covered mosaic wall clock:

This piece has been sold, but to see other mosaic pieces available visit my website, Lavender Hill Studio

I want to thank Fifi, the editor of Romantic Country magazine for including me in such a wonderful publication.

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Some Projects

2010-02-01T15:12:00.004-05:00

I am back working in my studio full time! I just finished one commissioned piece and will show you the whole piece once the owner receives it.

I am starting on a breadbox tomorrow for a special blog friend. And don't forget.....

Kelee is having a giveaway of a CUSTOM made mosaic birdhouse (made by me) for one lucky winner....you just need to leave a comment at her blog, just click here, before Feb 14th!

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Last Chance!

2010-01-30T16:46:00.006-05:00

The winter 50% off sale is ending. Last chance to purchase any item on my website at 50% off. The sale ends January 31st.

Here are some of the mosaic items that are still available.

Mosaic Blackboard

Coordinating mosaic table

Mosaic Bed Tray

Mosaic Clock (Yes it really works!)

Mosaic Birdhouse

Blue Willow Mosaic Table

Vintage Silver Teapot Lamp with Crystal Shade

Brown Transferware Tray

Brown Transferware Night Light Sold! Thank You!

EVERYTHING is 50% 0ff. Type in the words Winter Sale in the coupon code box at check out to get the sale price. To shop at the website click here.

Playing in the Studio

Penny

A Feature and a Give Away

2010-01-23T09:28:00.003-05:00

Meet Kelee!!

I am so excited! I have to tell you that I am being featured on The Katillac Shack blog! Blog owner Kelee has made me a Shackster!! Want to know what a Shackster is? Visit Kelee and find out. Kelee is an wonderfully inspirational, creative and motivational lady! If you have not met her yet, you need to head over and introduce yourself. You will love her as much as I do....

You will also have a chance to win a mosaic birdhouse, created by me. Simply go to her blog and leave a comment between now and Feb 14th.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

My New Studio and a HUGE Sale!!

2010-01-18T16:19:00.004-05:00

Welcome to my new studio! To see more pictures of my finished studio, visit my other blog, The Comforts of Home.
I wanted to thank everyone for being so patient with me during the closing of my old studio, the move and the reopening of my new studio.

To celebrate the opening of my new studio, I am have a HUGE SALE.

EVERYTHING on my website is 50% OFF, now through Jan 31st. To receive the 50% discount, simply type the words "Winter Sale", without the quotation marks in the coupon code box at check out. You do need to use the capitol "W" and "S". If you have any problems, please email me and let me know.

To view the website click here. Sale does not include previously purchased items or custom orders.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Re-opening Soon!

2009-12-30T20:15:00.002-05:00

The New Year is fast approaching and I am up to my elbows in boxes. I will be reopening Lavender Hill Studio soon and am looking forward to creating new mosaic pieces, as well as stocking some new and wonderful pieces on my website.

Keep checking in for more news and a HUGE sale to come.

Playing (well, really unpacking) in the Studio,

Penny

Sale Ending

2009-11-21T20:53:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone.... I am still in the middle of moving into my new home and trying to get my studio in order. I just wanted to let you all know that the 20% off sale will end Thanksgiving Day at Lavender Hill Studio.

If there is something you want or a present you would like to give, now is the time! Simply type in the words Moving Sale in the coupon code box at checkout.

Hopefully I will be back in my studio January first creating new mosaics. I am also taking commissions now for the first of the year. So if you have something you would like me to create, email me at lavenderhillstudio@att.net.

Playing in the Studio (I wish!)

Penny

Moving Sale Continues

2009-10-27T08:01:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note to let you know the MOVING SALE continues at Lavender Hill Studio!

Everything in my online boutique is 20% off!

To take advantage of this sale when checking out on my website simply add the coupon code, Moving Sale in the coupon box at check out. If you have a problem, please email me and let me know.Also, please sign up to be a follower on my side bar or sign up at Google Reader. That way you will know when I start posting again here at Lavender Hill Studio.You can always follow what is going on during my move at my other blog, The Comforts of Home.

MOVNG SALE!!!!!

2009-09-02T18:32:00.004-05:00

It looks like I have to stop production in my mosaic studio for the next month or so. I have to package and move both my house full of furniture and my studio full of plates.

So, I have decided to have a MOVING SALE! Everything in my online boutique is 20% off. These are one of a kind items.

To take advantage of this sale when checking out on my website simply add the coupon code, Moving Sale in the coupon box at check out. If you have a problem, please email me and let me know.

Also, please sign up to be a follower on my side bar or sign up at Google Reader. That way you will know when I start posting again here at Lavender Hill Studio.

You can always follow what is going on during my move at my other blog, The Comforts of Home.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Still Working on the Childs Chair

2009-08-24T10:04:00.003-05:00

Since I am in the middle of trying to close on my house, I seem to be spending less time in the studio. I am still working on this little child's chair. I hope to have it done sometime this week.

I like the way it is coming together. It is going to be so sweet!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

The Child's Chair Continued...

2009-08-20T18:40:00.004-05:00

The child's chair.....with 3 coats of paint. The seat only has one...because that is where the mosaics will go.

Besides the paint, do you see anything different from the original chair in this post? Let me know if you figure it out.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

The Child's Chair

2009-08-18T12:58:00.003-05:00

Thanks for all of your input on what to mosaic next! You suggested a clock, chalkboard, old window and a birdhouse. But the one item that got the most suggestions was a child's chair.

This sweet chair is an old oak children's nursery school chair. It stands about 25 inches tall. I started painting it today....Keep checking back for the finished chair, or sign up as a follower on my side bar and you will get notified when I post something new.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Charming Chippy Cottage Green Bed Tray

2009-08-16T13:27:00.005-05:00

This turned out to be such a charming bed tray. I love the vintage chippy green paint. And the pink stained glass with the green. I just listed this on my website.

I am not sure what project I am starting next, which is unusual for me. We have been busy with company and trying to buy a new home, so my mind has been elsewhere.

What should I mosaic? What would you like to see? A birdhouse? A mirror? A vintage window frame? A teapot lamp? A child's chair? Or something else? Help me decide!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Chippy Cottage Green Mosaic Bed Tray

2009-08-06T10:00:00.004-05:00

Here is what I am working on. It is the BEST chippy cottage green bed tray!

I love the way the vintage floral china pieces are playing up the old green paint. This should be finished in a few days.

Playing in the Studio

Penny

A Pair Of Blue Willow Mosaic Tables

2009-07-31T14:58:00.002-05:00

The blue willow mosaic night stands/end tables are finished! It was hard to get a good picture today, because it is cloudy and rainy. You can click on the pictures to enlarge.

I love the scalloped apron, don't you? It goes around all 4 sides.

It has a cute little drawer in the front. I left them in the original wood stain. I love the way it looks with the blue willow.

These tables are available here at Lavender Hill Studio.

Up next is a fabulous vintage bed tray with chippy cottage green paint! Wait till you see it!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Blue Willow

2009-07-29T14:10:00.003-05:00

Blue Willow is one of my favorite transferware patterns. I am making a pair of matching night stands.

I think they will be finished tomorrow and I will post pictures of the pair.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Sweet Pink and Green Demilune Table

2009-07-26T12:20:00.004-05:00

I orignally posted this on July 26, 09....But wanted to add this to Susan's Metamorphosis Monday.

BEFORE.....

AFTER......

Available here.

Next up....a pair of end tables/night stands done in blue transferware.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Almost Done!

2009-07-20T13:11:00.003-05:00

I am almost finished with this sweet pink and green table....

See you in a few days :-)

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

One Piece at A Time

2009-07-16T15:07:00.002-05:00

Before....

During....

After.....coming soon.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

French and Scandinavian Inspired Pillows

2009-07-12T20:03:00.006-05:00

I have fallen in love the burlap, and vintage prints. So I thought I would combine the two and create some nubby burlap with raw edged tea stained muslin pillow covers to sell in the shop.

An imaginary hotel in Paris....The Palace Hotel, on Garden Street....

French Inspired vintage Bee print...

A beautifully colored vintage Parisian Lady.

Numbers......

A vintage French Postcard.

A vintage Putti/Cherub print and a vintage Madonna (sold!)print.

All are available here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Beautiful Vintage Silver Teapot Lamp With Prism Shade

2009-07-10T15:55:00.003-05:00

A couple of posts ago, here, I showed a silver teapot and a skeleton of a lampshade. I know most of you thought that I would mosaic the teapot. That's what I normally do. But this teapot had such a great form....and the PATINA was amazing on it. So I decided to do something a little different.

I left the teapot in it's wonderfully vintage patina. First it was wired into a lamp. After stripping the fabric off an old lamp shade, I stretched crystal prism chain between the shade frame. I love the way it creates shadows on the wall!

I think it looks amazing! I am showing it with a clear standard light bulb. To find out more about this lamp you can go here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Brown Transferware

2009-07-07T15:10:00.003-05:00

I am waiting on something in the mail to finish the teapot lamp I showed in the previous post. In the meantime, here are a couple of new pieces done in a beautiful brown English transferware.

First is this sweet little silver plate sugar bowl, turned into a little night light.

Next is this pretty silver plate tray. If you want to learn how to mosaic a tray, click here for more info.

Both of these are available at Lavender Hill Studio.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Hmmmmm

2009-07-02T09:02:00.003-05:00

The beginnings of my next project. Think you know how it will turn out?

This one might suprise you. It should be done sometime next week, if all goes well.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Heart of My Heart

2009-06-29T08:48:00.005-05:00

I have used some of my favorite vintage china on this heart. I just love the floral bouquets!

It has a pretty gold trimmed creamy china edge too!

You can find this heart and other hearts available on my website, here.

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

"Sweet" and Petite

2009-06-26T09:34:00.004-05:00

Here is another "Sweet" lamp made from a vintage silver plate sugar bowl. This poor sugar bowl was discovered in a thrift shop, tarnished and all alone. So I brought it to my studio and worked a little magic on it. First it was wired into a little lamp. Then the fun began.

I covered it with one of my favorite vintage china patterns.

The front is slightly different than the back. Available here.... SOLD!
Playing in the Studio

"Check" This Out!

2009-06-24T19:15:00.004-05:00

Last month I did a post about a wonderful gift package I received in the mail from Lee Laurie at A Southern Rose blog spot. One of the gifts she gave me was this cute rooster piece that she thought I might like to mosaic. She was right! I gave you a sneak peak in the last post (see the post below this one). The first picture below shows the rooster piece in it's original form.

And here it is now. You can click the pictures to enlarge. The perfect Country French accent piece for your home. This looks great with an ivy plant inside. Other wonderful uses could be, guest towels rolled up and stacked inside, kitchen utensils, bath soaps, out going mail, potpourri...

What would you use it for? Available on my website, here.
Playing in the Studio,

Penny

2009-06-22T14:44:00.001-05:00

Next project........

Almost done....check back in a few days.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

A Mosaic Cross

2009-06-21T19:11:00.001-05:00

This is so simple, but so beautiful. Creamy vintage china background with faded gold edges. A pretty pink old fashioned rose bouquet in the center.

Now available here, at Lavender Hill Studio.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Heart of My Heart

2009-06-20T14:03:00.003-05:00

Here is the latest piece created at Lavender Hill Studio. A romantic mosaic heart peg.

Wouldn't this look great in a little girls room with a vintage baby dress hanging on the peg? How about the mud room with the puppy leash? In your bath to hold a guest towel or your necklaces at the end of the day. Cute in the kitchen to hold dish towels too. Where would you use it?

Available on my website, here.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Cottage Cutey! A Mosaic Blackboard

2009-06-17T10:06:00.004-05:00

Isn't this cute! This sweet chalkboard is covered in pretty vintage aqua and rose china pieces. (Click on the pictures to enlarge....)

It looks great with the cottage table I showed you a few weeks ago! Can't you just see the two of these in a foyer or mudroom? The perfect place to leave messages for family or guests. The table has a little drawer perfect for keys or the puppy leash.

The "eraser" is a piece of rose covered fabric, filled with cotton balls and tied with pretty aqua ribbon...

The outside of the chalk holder is covered in broken china....

The inside has pretty roses cascading around the holder.

The edges of the chalkboard are covered in pretty aqua china too!

Penny

Picture This!

2009-05-20T12:40:00.005-05:00

Remember my 400th post giveaway, here? I had a drawing to celebrate my 400th post and gave away a custom mosaic frame to the winner. Here is the before frame below.

Vickie, from Visuals by Vickie was the winner. When I asked her what she would like, here was her response, " I love pinks, roses, pastels. I also like shades of green and pinks. Truthfully, I would be happy with anything you come up with, what ever you feel like doing on the day you start! "

So, I went with the roses and shades of green and pinks. You can click on the pictures to enlarge.

I couldn't help but add a picture of Vickie's sweet dog, Margarita inside the frame.

Thank you Vickie for entering my giveaway! It has been an honor creating something just for you. Enjoy!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Mosaic Pencil Cup Holder II

2009-05-19T14:53:00.002-05:00

After making the previous pencil cup holder a few weeks ago, I received an email requesting a custom made one. Here is the front.

The back view...

and a close up of the sweet blue bird vintage salt shaker...

Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Sugar is Sweet ~ A Mosaic Sugar Bowl Lamp

2009-05-16T12:57:00.002-05:00

Do you ever wish you could clone yourself? It seems like there is just not enough time to do all I want to do!

Here is the latest mosaic creation from my studio.

This is a vintage silver sugar bowl, wired into a little lamp. Then covered in sweet vintage rose china. To top it all off, a sweet shabby rose covered shade. This one is a custom order and will be heading out to it's new owner soon.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Sign of the Times

2009-05-11T18:00:00.008-05:00

Another house sign....this one going to a favorite blog friend.

Similar to the last one, with a little more red transferware.

Currently, I am very busy in the studio, working on a mosaic silver sugar bowl lamp, a picture frame giveaway, and possibly another mosaic pencil cup holder....

Sorry I have not been around to visit. I will try to catch up soon. Your comments mean the world to me!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

A Wonderful Package in the Mail!

2009-05-04T13:25:00.004-05:00

A while back Lee Laurie from A Southern Rose blog, told me she was out thrifting and found something she wanted to send me. How fun is that? She didn't tell me what it was, but I assumed it would be a plate or two for me to use in my mosaics.

Today the package came in the mail...

What a wonderful surprise! Lee Laurie knows I love roosters and aprons....Look at this ADORABLE ROOSTER APRON! I just love it!! (you can click on any picture to enlarge). See the rooster in the dining room to the right? And the rooster on the wine cabinet to the left? Lee Laurie KNOWS me :-)

She also sent this cute rooster planter, thinking I would like to paint and mosaic it. Lee Laurie, you are so right! This is going to be a fun piece to mosaic!

And last, but not least, a wonderful Geranium book. Red Geraniums are one of my favorite flowers....they are very country French!

Thank you so much Lee Laurie! I love everything! You were so sweet to think of me. Words cannot express how wonderful it feels to receive such a sweet thoughtful package out of the blue.

Welcome Home,

Penny

The Winner of my 400th Post Giveaway Is.....

2009-05-02T20:13:00.006-05:00

Before I announce the winner of my giveaway on my 400th post , I wanted to thank everyone who entered. You are the ones that make blogging fun. The ones that make me want to write 400 posts! Thank you each and every one of you.

130 bloggers left a comment on my Lavender Hill Studio blog and 70 left comments on my Comforts of Home blog. I wish I had 200 gifts to giveaway!

Mr. LHS reached deep into a vintage galvanized sap bucket..........

He pulled out the winner....who could it be????

It's Vickie from Visuals by Vickie! I think that Vickie is new to my blog....How fun is that? I get to meet another blog friend! I took a quick peek at Vickie's blog and it looks like a great place to visit...

Thank you all again for your sweet comments. Each and every one touches my heart. Vickie, I will be contacting you soon!

Playing In The Studio,

Penny

It's Here!! My 400th Post Mosaic Giveaway!!

2009-04-22T12:59:00.008-05:00

I can't believe that Lavender Hill Studio has reached it's 400th post! When I started my blog in November of 2006, it was so new to me. I had just opened my website and through my website I met a lot of talented artists who had blogs of their own. Natasha from Artistic Creations actually helped me create my original blog. Thanks Natasha!

So much has happened in the past 400 posts. I originally combined my mosaic studio posts and my home decorating, gardening and cooking post in my one Lavender Hill Studio Blog.

This past November, I decided to create a new blog, called The Comforts of Home, where I post about my home, gardening, cooking and life's inspirations. That way I could separate my business from my home life (at least through my blogs anyway - lol).

I wanted to take this time to THANK all of you for taking the time out of your busy day to visit both of my blogs. I love reading all of the comments. I really enjoy your visits and I love visiting you too!

Now, onto the giveaway! To celebrate my 400th post, I am giving away a mosaic picture frame. Here is the unfinished frame below.

The winner will receive a CUSTOM mosaic frame. Created with the colors of their choice. All you have to do to have a chance to win this CUSTOM mosaic frame is to leave a comment on THIS post. The contest runs now through May 1st. The winner will be announced May 2nd.

Good luck and thank you all for spending some of your valuable time with me!
Edited to add: I am taking a blog break until May 2nd. I will be back then to announce the winner.

Giveaway is now closed. The winner will be announced later today. Thanks for all of your wonderful comments!
Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Sunshine on My Shoulders Makes Me Happy

2009-04-21T08:41:00.005-05:00

I thought I would share a little sunshine with you today! My studio is filled with sunshine every morning.

This is not an arranged vignette....things in my studio tend to get piled up and sometimes it just works out perfectly!

This is the window in my studio that allows the sun to come in. This is the view that inspires me everyday.

What's your inspiration?

This is post 399............the next post is my 400th giveaway post! Keep checking back.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

It's Easy as 1...2...3

2009-04-20T10:17:00.005-05:00

This post is all about numbers....the first set of numbers is.....

Here is the latest project I just finished. This is a custom house address plaque for one of the sweetest clients I have :-).

If you are interested in a custom house plaque, email me for details.

Now for the second set of numbers....This is post 398. Two more posts until the 400th post giveaway celebration! Keep checking back. It will happen before the end of the week!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Sweet Cottage Charm

2009-04-14T11:51:00.002-05:00

Remember this table? Not very charming in it's original state. But it did have great bones.

But, baby look at her now!

I got my inspiration from some vintage rose ticking fabric I had. I have even added mosaic china to the sides of this sweet table. Look at the pretty glass knob on the drawer. It is now available on my website.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

A Cinderella Transformation

2009-04-10T07:46:00.005-05:00

This is a true Cinderella story. Here is a mug...Now I love Firefighters. I really do. But this mug needs to go to the ball. And it can't go to the ball wearing a fireman's helmet! It needs to be dressed up in flowers. Maybe a little bluebird.

Aahhh. Now this is MUCH better, don't you think?

Yes, it is the same mug. I had a client request a pencil cup holder and she wanted a china bird and flowers on it. It was difficult to find something with a wide enough edge to set a bird on. My client offered the suggestion of a coffee mug with a big handle. It worked out perfect!

Have a great weekend!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Inspiration

2009-04-08T08:35:00.002-05:00

I have been having a love affair with reds and pale blues lately. I recently had my other blog, The Comforts of Home, updated and chose those colors as the background.

While working on three different projects at the same time, I noticed this morning this grouping of broken china. I think these might be used in a future project together. The colors remind me of a beautiful country cottage.

I am getting close to my 400th post. This is 396, I think. So keep checking back for a giveaway!
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

The Flower Pots Finished

2009-04-05T13:43:00.004-05:00

Here are the finished two flower pots I have been working on.

Each side is just a little different.

I can just see these filled with beautiful flowers! Can't you?

My next project is still not that sweet little table. I am doing another commission piece, then I will get to the table. Hope you all have a wonderful week!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Second Flower Pot

2009-04-02T09:25:00.003-05:00

I am working on the second flower pot. You can see the first one in the background - or the previous post (it is not grouted yet). This one is not going to be a "match" to the first one, but it will coordinate with it.

I should be done with the both in the next few days, so stop back to see the finished flowers pots.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

A Garden Bouquet

2009-03-26T11:37:00.003-05:00

As you can see by the picture below, I am no further along with the little white table than I was when I first posted about it. I have been busy doing some commission pieces. I am currently working on two flower pots (close your eyes Jen, if you don't want a sneak peak). One of them is sitting on the table below...this is right after I primed it.

Here is a little peak of what one of them will look like....

I think this would be beautiful with pink Geraniums or miniature pink Roses growing in it. A Rosemary topiary would look great in it too.

Back to......

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Look What She Did!!

2009-03-24T06:46:00.002-05:00

Cathie is a blog friend of mine. Her blog, Catherine Holman Folk Art is filled with all of the wonderful folk art painting she does. Not only does she create whimsical folk art paintings, but she creates marvelous stories to go with them. She is amazingly talented!

Recently Cathie purchased my "How To Mosaic A Tray" EBOOK. But instead of using it to mosaic a tray, she covered a bedside table with mosaics!

Isn't this great? You can click on the picture to enlarge it. She skirted the table with a beautiful matelasse skirt covered with black buttons and added a black velvet ribbon around the top. I think it turned out so beautiful! For before and after pictures, visit Cathie at her blog.

You can do this too! If you want more information on how to mosaic, click on the link above or the link on my side bar.

Wonderful job Cathie!!

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Whats Coming Up?

2009-03-17T15:25:00.003-05:00

Here is the next project I am working on. I found this cute table at a flea market last year. I loved the fluted legs and the sweet drawer in the front.

After sanding it down and painting it a creamy white, it is looking much better! I aged it a little by sanding the edges.

Here are some of the dishes I am thinking of using on it. We shall see.

Check back soon for the reveal....
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

The Finished Teapot Lamp

2009-03-16T11:38:00.003-05:00

Here is the finished Mosaic Teapot Lamp, that I created for a client. You can click on the pictures to enlarge them for detail. I used a sweet vintage reproduction bark cloth print with a gorgeous rose bouquet and pink ticking striped fabric to make the lampshade.

The teapot lamp was covered in vintage china mosaic pieces.

A close up of the shade

Little bits of pink stained glass are scattered through out the vintage china.

My signature butterfly is peaking out underneath the handle.

I love the floral bouquet on this china! Some asked in the last post how I found fabric to match the china and what exactly Bark Cloth was. Bark Cloth is a fabric that has a nubby texture. Years ago it was used mostly for curtains and upholstered pieces. Vintage Bark Cloth is quite costly. You can find it on EBAY. I buy a reproduction fabric from one of my vendors. You could probably find it at a larger fabric store.

A Glimpse of What's Next....

2009-03-11T14:33:00.002-05:00

Remember the Mosaic Heart Peg Giveaway from a couple of weeks ago? Cindy from My Romantic Home was the winner. I forgot to take pictures of it before I shipped it to her, but if you would like to see it, you can click on her link above. She has placed in a wonderfully creative space in her home!

Next.....a glimpse of what I am working on (close your eyes Jennifer if you don't want to see it part way finished!)

Isn't this fabric beautiful! It is a vintage barkcloth reproduction with pink roses, green leaves and light blue flowers.

It is going to be a lampshade to go with this lamp below....

I used this same pattern china on the Mosaic Heart Peg I made Cindy....

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

Madeline Has a New Look

2009-03-09T09:26:00.005-05:00

I wish I would have thought to take a before picture. But this one below will have to do. See Madeline on my desk next to my printer? This is Madeline before....

And this is Madeline after...

You can click on the picture to enlarge to see how beautiful she is! Madeline has just been added to my website and is available (Sold)by clicking here .

I am working on another mosaic teapot lamp for a client and then I have an adorable table waiting for me to mosaic.
Playing in the Studio,
Penny

Madeline

2009-03-07T13:32:00.001-05:00

Isn't this face adorable? I call her Madeline.

Madeline is getting a mosaic makeover....She will be finished soon. Come back for her debut in a couple of days.

Playing in the Studio,

Penny

A Sweet Rose Teapot Lamp

2009-03-04T19:53:00.003-05:00

This sweet rose covered mosaic teapot lamp was custom made for a client in Hawaii.

I made a coordinating lampshade with vintage inspired reproduction rose covered barkcloth and pink ticking.

If you would like a custom made mosaic teapot lamp in any color - brown transferware, shabby, Tuscan, French, blue and white etc just email me for details!

Playing In The Studio,

Penny