a tiny peek inside my new studio

I have been busy over here juggling a number of creative projects. The biggest has been getting my new studio unpacked, organized and ready for the first retreat in this new space in a couple of weeks. Since the space is large and will double as my studio and as a classroom when I host retreats and classes- there has been lots of creative preparation and work getting everything ready. But things are coming together and now there is art to hang, supplies to organize and things to decorate. Here is a teeny tiny peek into the preparation of my new studio ....

more to come!

paper mobile

Since I teach all kinds of classes I typically end up with tons of samples and art leftover from demonstrating different techniques. Recently I was inspired to create a large mobile (inspired by the one I made for Lucy's room last year- see here) to hang as a statement piece in my new studio. I immediately knew that all those samples could be put to use and upcycled as the material for the mobile!

1.) I gathered all of my paper samples (watercolor paintings, acrylic painting, abstract painting, etc) and I began by cutting them into triangles (and a few rectangles) 2.) Next I sewed strands of triangles together- creating strands of about 20 triangles. 3) FYI- This project was WAY more messy and challenging to complete because of my cute little helper! 4.) The last step was to attach all of the strands of triangles to a wooden embroidery hoop that I wrapped in fabric. I use a dab of hot glue on the inside of the hoop and attached each strand.

The end result is a fun and whimsical statement piece!

fall is in the air

around here- according to my iphone

lu pens from Alisa Burke on Vimeo.

follow more of my life in pictures on Instagram -user name @alisakburke

fashion friday- braided hippie headband

1. Start with colorful stretchy headbands. 2. Cut in half. 3. Braid three colors together.

4. Glues the ends together. 5. Glue a piece of elastic to each end of braid. 6. Wrap with another piece of elastic to hide glue.

I love headbands! see more tutorials here, here and here

sesame and lilies

Sesame and Lilies in Cannon Beach, OR- my favorite place to browse for inspiration!

a peek inside my sketchbook