The Occasional Artist

Craft Mixer Tomorrow

2012-01-26T22:56:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Just wanted to announce that tomorrow night we will be having our first Craft Mixer, an event that we will do the last Friday of every month where we will feature a cute, easy craft, beverages and - the best part of all - a great time! Drop by anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. to hang out, gab with the girls, get crafty and relax after a long day at work. The craft will be $10, and here is tomorrow's:

See you there!

More pictures! New products!

2012-01-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

We're getting all sorts of new product now - every week we get a million boxes of goodies such as stamps from Impression Obsession and Hero Arts, Gel Sticks from Faber Castell and of course, new ink. We are now carrying the full line of Archival Inks, perfect for art journaling and stamping arts of every kind.

Pan pastels have been restocked!

New magazines:

Grand Opening Success

2012-01-12T12:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you, our Grand Opening was a great success. It was a very busy and exciting Saturday. We want to extend our gratitude to those of who made it such an awesome day and we want to share the news that we are now open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Make and Take is now back on schedule from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m every Wednesday and from 4 to 7 p.m. every Thursday evening; no need to sign up.

Also, in case you haven't wandered over to the Upcoming Classes page, click here to visit and see all of our lovely classes coming up! We're featuring lots of unique and artful classes from Angie Platten, Dina Wakley, Marta Gladden, Ken Pesho, Anne Bonderson, Judy Ross, Krista Koenig, Terrie Meider and of course Kathie Shepherd! Book of the Month is back this Tuesday with a class at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Renew your bookbinding skills or come and learn how to create a book for the first time!

IMAGES!

2011-12-27T16:28:00.000-08:00

Look!!!!!!!!! Kathie took these pics from her phone today....

Yes, you can be excited.

The Creative Quest No Longer

2011-12-26T16:25:00.000-08:00

As you can see, the transition from the Creative Quest to The Occasional Artist has occurred. We have completely moved to our new location, which is merely one door NORTH of the old location in the beige building with the red door. Our "soft opening" was a success, taking place as a holiday 10-Card Extravaganza on a very wintry December 13th. Thank you to all of you who made it - we know the space is a little smaller, but once it is filled with delicious new product and brand new classes we know you will enjoy The Occasional Artist as much as well, that other place;)

Our official Grand Opening will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, January 7th.

Bring your spending money, your creative ideas and your artistic goals for 2012. Also - bring your calendars, too! We will have many new classes on display that we know you will love.

We're so excited for this new beginning and we hope you are too. We cannot wait to see all of you and celebrate this fantastic venture. Have a wonderful and safe New Year!!

~the Occasional Artist Girls

October Classes, and there are many!

2011-10-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just a quick reminder to check the upcoming classes page above to see the schedule of classes and pictures of the projects as I get them. October is the month we have all been waiting for-the weather is little cooler and it's finally nice to stroll around Catlin Court again. There are lots of fun shops down here, but of course, only one like ours! So come on down and see us. Take a class, visit, shop, be creative! And don't forget, the Christmas Card celebration continues this month with 5 new cards and the Fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving 10-Card Extravaganza is this month too! See you soon!

Is It August 8 Already?

2011-08-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, time really flies! I must first apologize for not getting the class pictures up before I went on vacation, but they are there now! My vacation was wonderful, thanks for asking. My 82 year old father and I traveled across Canada from Vancouver to Toronto on VIA Rail. I recommend it. Then off to Boston for their 2 hottest days in 100 years, a walk on the Freedom Trail and a week on Cape Cod, including a ferry ride over to spend a day on Nantucket. It was a "Planes, Trains, Automobiles, and a Boat" trip.

So, there's al little taste of our first day. Back now to Art Unraveled, and the store. Can't wait to see you all, and share a little of my trip with you. Don't forget about the Christmas Card Celebration this month. Keep working on those cards and you'll have them all ready to send out in December! See you soon!

Wow! The first week of July

2011-07-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

is already gone! The time is flying so fast, it's hard to keep up. We are pleased with the response to our Christmas Card Celebration. The new cards for July are here and there are 3 more days to come in to make them: Wednesday, July 13 from 10-5, Tuesday, July 19 from 10-5 and Friday, July 29 from 12-5. The cards are $1.50 each and include the envelope and a sentiment for the inside of your card. Make as many as you want!

Also, we just added a fabulous card class: Mixed Media Cards, with Angie, only $20. These cards are beautiful, and if I were in town, I would be in this class for sure! They incorporate a photo, a transparency and a transfer. So you get to learn a technique AND make amazing cards! The class is on Saturday, July 23 from 10am-1pm.

So come in soon, and make lots of cards in our lovely, air-conditioned shoppe. We'd love to see you!

The July class pictures are here!

2011-06-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! The July classes are now on the Upcoming Classes page. Go check them out! We added a June class: Copic Airbrushed Bag with Krista on Saturday, June 25, 1:30pm, $30. And the pictures of Delia's Copic cards are there too!

Don't forget that Tuesday, June 21, 10am-5pm, is the last day to come in and make your June Christmas cards. Next month, there will be 5 new cards.

Addition to the June calendar

2011-05-31T16:14:00.000-07:00

Marta has done it again! A new Summer Vacation book. Add this to your June calendar: Look What I Did on my Summer Vacation! Friday, June 17. 5:30-9pm. $45.

No Play with Judy this Summer

2011-05-28T15:46:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,

Hope Memorial weekend, and Memorial Day starts the summer off with a bang! Slight change to a regular class on the calendar...Judy is taking a creative break this summer and will not be teaching Play with Judy in June, July or August. In September, she'll be back with a new and even better version. It may even have a new name-you'll have to watch and see.

Meanwhile, we continue to offer the most and the best classes in town! Be sure to check out our Copic club if you haven't yet. It's a great way to build your stash of pens AND learn how to use them. And don't forget the Christmas Card Celebration--5 different cards each month, 4 days to come in to make them each month and only $1.50/card. You'll have all your handmade holiday cards made by December, ready to go to friends and loved ones. And the next 10-Card Extravaganza is June 7: Cards for Men.

See you soon!

Is it June yet?

2011-05-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!
Just wanted to quick get the June calendar online so that you can plan your trips to the store. We know that gas is expensive and you will want to maximise your shopping and learning experiences. Come see us. The air conditioning is on, and we continue to get in new product all the time! Be sure to go over to the Upcoming Classes page to see pictures and descriptions of the classes. Even the June Christmas Card Celebration cards are there!

The May classes are on!

2011-04-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

Be sure to go to the Upcoming Classes page to view the May classes with prices and descriptions!

Here is the May Calendar, ready to print. Watch for any changes to the classes or calendar in our emails or here on this blog.

New product in this week includes: (finally)Stampers Anonymous stamps, Northwoods stamps and a new board, Cloth Paper Scissors magazines, Somerset Studio magazine, Artful Blogging magazine, Catch Up magazine and Where Women Create (a personal favorite-down't you love to see other people's studios?) magazine. Also, a new Zentangle book called AlphaTangles (yes, it's an abcedary. or ABC book) from Design Originals.

As always, we want you to know that we appreciate your friendship and your business. We know that you have a variety of places to spend your hard-earned dollars, and we thank you for your patronage.

April Calendar!

2011-04-10T16:57:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!! Here is that calendar I promised you. I believe that you can print it or save it to your own computer. Right click and you will see your options. Choose the one that works best for you. I will try to have May's calendar before the end of April for you.

Be Sure To Check Out....

2011-04-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

the Upcoming Classes page from the link above. We have posted all the April classes. Some still need pictures, but those will be coming soon! Watch for a printable (I hope) calendar right here on the blog in the next day or two. And, watch for our new Facebook page. We'll tell you when it's up, so you can "be our friend".

Magenta Classes this week!!

2011-02-27T22:05:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone!!

Thank you all so much for joining us for our 7th Anniversary party on Saturday. Judy and I are so very grateful for your patronage, and we hope to be here for you for a very long time.

Tuesday, March 1, is our 10 Card Extravaganza with the theme of All Occasion Cards. We will be card-making all day long, from 10am-8pm. $1/card for as many cards as you want to make. Don't miss it!

And on Thursday, Helene will be here all the way from Canada. She is coming for the Mesa Stamp Convention (and we have just a few tickets left, so if you need one, get it ASAP) and she will be at the Creative Quest this Thursday evening from 6-8pm for a great class. See the cards below. Great techniques and you will leave with these beautiful cards. $30. Here is the supply list from Helene (but do not let a lack of any of these keep you from signing up. We have much of this in the studio):
Scissors
Double sided tape
Color pencil: WHITE a must, 2 or 3 green, one brown
Black versafine
Alcohol Ink citrus, stream, butterscotch + felt applicator
Stickles: stardust or yellow
Markers: Tombo or Memento or Marvy yellow, orange, blue or turquoise, pink, 2 or 3 green
Watercolor brush
Clear embossing powder + top boss clear or tinted

I just accidentally deleted one of the cards, but trust me they are gorgeous!! See you soon!

Happy Anniversary!!

2011-02-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

Just a quick reminder about our 7th anniversary party on Saturday, February 26th. We will be there from 10am-5pm with lots of fun stuff! There will be cupcakes and fruit punch as well as other snack-y items to munch on. We will have a drawing every hour starting at 11am and ending at 4pm. And at 4:30pm, we will draw for the Tim Holtz Vagabond. For those of you that do not know, the Vagabond is the hottest item around right now. It is an electric-powered die cutting machine. It looks like a suitcase and cuts like a dream. All you have to do to get in the drawing is spend a little money. For every $50 you spend (except on classes), you will get a ticket for the Vagabond. Yes, you may use your full punch cards. Yes, if you are in class, your discount still works. And do not forget to bring your invitation printed out from the computer for a discount. You must be present to win any of the drawings, so come back by the store at 4:30 for the Vagabond drawing! And in the meantime, wander around Catlin Court. There are some great shops in downtown Glendale!

In addition to all this fun, Angie will be doing a fabulously fashionable Make and Take. Here are a few samples. You know how hot flowers are! And you have all seen Judy wearing a fun fabric flower on her vests, her blouses, her handbags and even her jeans. Well, make one (or more) for yourself while you wait for the next drawing. Only $5.

A little thank you ahead of time to you all. We would not be here if not for you! See you Saturday!

Time for New Resolutions

2011-01-16T21:18:00.000-08:00

It's January 2011! Are you making New Year's resolutions? Have you already given up on them? Well, I am just starting with mine, and my first one is to keep this blog updated for you.

So here goes: Class on Monday at 10am is Delia's Copic Club class. The theme is coloring on surfaces other than paper. She's teaching it again on Wednesday at 2pm. Class is only $10 if you are in "Copic Club" and $15 if you are not. Ask about Copic Club--it's a really good deal if you love these markers like we do!
On Tuesday, I am teaching my Book of the Month class at 11am, 2pm and 5:30pm. This month the book features a double needle coptic stitch and a new way to put on covers.

Judy is teaching her Copic Club class on Thursday at 10am. We don't have her pictures because she went to Las Vegas this weekend for a big birthday bash. Happy Birthday, Beverly!

At the end of the week is the much-awaited Steampunk Rolodex! Marta has outdone herself with this one. And it's the beginning to several "organizing" projects for this new year. There are a few spots left, but call fast if you want one of them!

And, finally, most of you know that my daughter got married on New Year's Day this year. It was a beautiful wedding, if a little chilly. Here's a picture of the bride and groom along with the mom and dad of the bride (that's me and my husband, Don). Erin and John honeymooned in Aruba and have now reluctantly floated back down to earth. They just today became new "parents" to a 7-month old puppy.

And now I am off to re-check the website one more time to ensure it's accuracy. Keep you eyes on Delia's emails for the very latest info. And for those of you who check the blog regularly to see if I have posted, mention the wedding photo this week at the store for a 10% discount on your purchase (excluding classes, gift certificates, and other discounts).

It's Already Mid-November

2010-11-10T19:28:00.001-08:00

Are you ready for the holidays?

It's been a while since I've blogged. Time goes so fast! Here are the classes coming up over the next week! This first one is a BRAND NEW CLASS with Dina! She never fails to amaze me with her beautiful work. This time you'll be watercoloring with inks and then turn your backgrounds into this little accordion Gratitude Book. The class is THIS FRIDAY at 5:30, and there are a few spots left. Info on the website (www.thecreativequest.com) will tell you what to bring.

Copic class on Saturday, 11/13, with Krista. New fall colors this month. Only $10 if you're "in the club".

On Sunday 11/14 (yes, Sunday-w've got so many wonderful classes for you that we're now scheduling on Sundays), Delia will be teaching these 4 Iris folded cards. Whether you're using paper or ribbon, these cards will WOW all of your friends.

Copic lass with Delia is on Monday, 11/15 at 10am. Same colors, different cards. $10 for club members.

And next Tuesday, 11/16, I will be teaching this pretty little album for Book of the Month. It is offered 3 times during the day: at 11am, at 2pm and at 5:30pm. Easy binding, and just in time to fill up for Christmas.

So, enjoy Veteran's Day, and be sure to tell a veteran how much you appreciate their service to our country! See you soon down at the store.

It's October, and Fall is finally here!

2010-10-09T00:16:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!

At least, we hope that fall is finally here. It's been a little cooler and we're happy to see a little more of you in the store. Even some of our winter residents are back! Welcome home!

I missed posting the pictures to the "upcoming classes" page of the blog. It's new and I think that I need a lesson from my blog designer. I'll try to get the November class pictures in the right place. But at least you will find the October pictures below. Be sure to check the website or call the store for more information on any class that you see.

Be sure to keep your calendar open for Tuesday, October 19 for the 10-Card Extravaganza, featuring fall, Halloween and Thanksgiving cards. Only $1/card. 10am-8pm.

Also, note that Marta has added a Halloween in Wonderland class on Sunday, October 24 from 10am-5pm. Only a few spots left, so if you want to make this fabulous book in a box, better hurry and call the store to sign up!

See you all soon!

Uh-oh

2010-10-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry, it looks like I missed a couple of picutres:

Christmas Stampscapes, 1 card.
Saturday, October 30. 2-5pm. $30 (for all 4 cards)

and:
Ink Art: City Girl Feet.
Friday, October 29. 6-8pm. $25.

October classes!

2010-10-08T23:27:00.000-07:00

Fall Mini-Book.
Satuday, October 9. 2-5pm. $25. Terrie Meider.
Road Trip.
Sunday, October 10. 1-5pm. $35. Judy Ross.

Book of the Month.

Tuesday, October 12. 11am, 2pm or 5:30pm. $25.

5 for $25.

Thursday, October 14. 5:30-7pm. $25. Anne Bonderson.

Copic Class.

Saturday, October 16. 9-10am. $10/$15. Krista Koenig.

Halloween in Wonderland.

Saturday, October 16. 10:30am-5pm. $95. Marta Gladden.

Halloween Circle Book.

Sunday, October 17. 1-5pm. $35. Judy Ross.

10-Card Extravaganza. Fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving.

Tuesday, October 19. 10am-8pm. $1/card.

Copic Class.

Thursday, October 21. 10:30-11:30am. $10/$15. Judy Ross.

Measure of a Woman Shrine.

Friday, October 22. 3-9pm. $55. Marta Gladden.

7 Gypsies Nativity.

Saturday, October 23. 10:30am-4:30pm. $60. Ann Mabee.

Copic Class.

Monday, October 25. 10-11am. $10/$15. Delia Pesho.

Ink Art: City Girl Feet.

Friday, October 29. 6-8pm. $25. Terrie Meider.

By the Sea Copper Book.

Saturday, October 30. 10:30am-1:30pm. $60. Amy Wellenstein.

Christmas Stampscapes.

Saturday, October 30. 2-5pm. $30. Ken Pesho.

And there you have it! Come on in and sign up for a class soon!

Just added: Art Journaling classes!

2010-09-08T15:51:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!!

Just added to or September calendar!

Tuesday, September 14. 1-4pm. $35. Dina's Intro to Art Journaling. Back by popular demand and as wonderful as ever. Need a refresher? Started, stopped and need a boost? New to the art? Join us for this really fun class!

There are many ways to art journal. This class is an introduction to how I create a basic page. We'll be making a background, adding a silhouetted or masked image, and top texture. The best thing about art journaling is that you simply cannot do it wrong! :) Come and have fun with us!

Supply List (what students need)--Acrylic paint...bring an assortment of your favorite colors--Gesso--Gel medium or adhesive--Paintbrushes in various sizes...I prefer a 3/4" or 1" flat, but you can use your favorite--A pen that will write on dried paint (regular Sharpie, poster pen Sharpie, Faber-Castell Pitt, etc.). --I will provide watercolor paper to work on. If you'd prefer to work in your personal art journal, please do!

And then....

Funky Accordion Tag Book. Also with Dina.

Friday, September 17. 5:30-8:30pm. $35.

Together we'll play with the gel medium resist technique! It's fun and you can use it to get a faux batik look. It's great for adding visual interest to your art journaling. We'll try out the technique on a sheet of canvas, and then we'll also make a little accordion envelope book with the technique and all kinds of funky colors and stamps.

Bring to class: Acrylic paint...bring an assortment of your favorite colors--

Gesso--

Gel medium (a requirement for this class! Any formulation is fine)--

Paintbrushes in various sizes...be sure to bring a small one in addition to larger ones.--

A pen that will write on dried paint (regular Sharpie, poster pen Sharpie, Faber-Castell Pitt, etc.).--

Permanent black ink pad for stamping--

Good scissors for cutting out stamped images.--

Any fun & funky stamps you want to use in your book. I will bring the ones I used (and more), but if you want something special, please bring it.

So, don't be strangers. We love to see you in the store. Now that the weather is cooling off a little, come wander around Catlin Court. There are some fun little shops and restaurants to be found! See you soon!

I'm Back...with September classes!!

2010-09-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

OK, so it's been a really long time since I posted. I am so sorry. But I will try to be better. Be watching for a new addition to the blog. I will have some choices above: one where you can go just to look at class pictures, and the other just to keep up with happenings. But for now, here are the pictures of September's classes.

Ink Art, with Terrie. Saturday, September 4. 10am-1pm. $35. It's a little Zentangles and a little drawing. We love it!

Thursday, September 9. Play with Judy. 10am and 5:30pm. $25. Make 6 technique-driven cards with the Queen of Cards!

Copper Findings with Deborah. Saturday, September 11. 10am-2pm. $35. No finished jewelry, but you will come away with knowing how to add all these findings to your work.

Noteworthy Journal with Marta. Saturday, September 11. 2:30-5pm. $35. Marta is back with a very handy and useful journal.

Monday, September 13, 10-11am.Copic Class with Delia.

Saturday, September 18. 9-10am, with Krista.

Thursday, September 23, 11am-12noon, with Judy.

$10 if you're in the club, $15 if you're not. A new blending technique this month.

Cards for Starters, with Anne. Thursday, September 16, 5:30-7pm. $25. These are great cards even if you're not a starter, but if you are, these are for you!

Your very own Dog Tags, with Amy. Saturday, September 18. 10:30am-1:30pm. $45. Etched metal covers, pictures, mica and a sterling chain.

Different Point of View, with Judy. Saturday, September 18. 2-5pm. $35. Make 5 cards using the same stamp and get the stamp as part of the price!

Book of the Month, with Kathie. Tuesday, September 21. 11am, 2pm or 5:30pm. $25. You never know what book Kathie will teach, but it is sure to be finished when you walk out the door!

7 Gypsies Nativity, with Anne. Saturday, September 25. 10:30am-4:30pm. $60. Anne is a designer for 7 Gypsies. We saw this little treasure last year on their blog and loved it. We know you will too! Great for your own mantle, but how about one for your kids and your friends?

Please go to the webiste at www.thecreativequest.com for additional information and what to bring to class, or call us at the store. Hope to see you very soon!

More Classes!

2010-03-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

So here are some pictures of the classes that I did not have last week. This stamp is the Different Point of View stamp for Judy's class on Saturday, March 20, 10am-1pm. $35 includes this beautiful stamp from Magenta.
"Remember" Book in a box is a 2-part class. The first session is on Friday, March 26 from 5:30-9 and the second part is on Friday, April 9, same time. Marta will teach you how to crackle and distress the surface of this book and make the accordion book inside. Another use of the always fabulous Graphic 45 papers. $85 for both sessions.

This class is offered by guest artist, Terri Sproul. She is a designer for Stewart Superior (they make Memories inks) and Stampotique. This cute little tag album is offered on Thursday, March 25, 6-8pm, and is only $25.

Ladie's Home Journal is an all day class on Saturday, April 3. It starts at 10am. Graphic 45 Domestic Goddess paper, corrugated cardboard, distress ink and Marta. $65.

If you have taken Dina's Intro to Art Journaling, you are welcome to jump into her other classes. This one is journaling with black spray paint. Tuesday, April 6, 10:30-1:30. What fun! $35.

More Zentangles! This is a Zentangles sampler class. Saturday, April 10, 10:30-1:30. $35. Beginners, as well as more advanced students will enjoy this class. Bring several sizes of permanent black markers (like Micron, Pitt, Copic Multiliner) and a pencil.

Be sure to scroll back through the last post to see the classes still offered in March that are not in this post.

Thanks for stopping over to check out the classes on our blog. Your secret word for this week is SUNSHINE.

Join Us for these Fabulous March Classes!

2010-03-08T21:59:00.001-08:00

Wow!! These classes look great! We are so lucky to have such talented local teachers here at the Creative Quest!

First, here is a picture from Dina's art journal--just one way to "alter portraits" which is what she is teaching on March 9. Dina's classes are amazing and she keeps adding to what you can do in your own art journal. Take her intro class and then you can take any of her other classes in no particular order! She's teaching this class again on April 17.
Terri Meider is fairly new to our store, but everyone loves her teaching style! She's helping us get a handle on the latest doodling fad, Zentangles! This beginning class is offered on Thursday, March 11 at 10:30-1:30. $35. Bring at least 3 sizes of permanent black markers (i.e. .005, .01, .03, .05, 1.0).

Olivia Thomas is a master colored pencilist (is that a word?) and she is offering 2 classes on Saturday, March 13. The first one is Colored Pencils 102. It's from 11-1, $35. You'll learn how to do these 3 stamped images, and one more (that I somehow just deleted-I wish that I knew how to do this better!). Wouldn't you love to color your images like this? Bring your colored pencils (not watercolor pencils) and a kneaded eraser.

The other class is called Colored Pencil Creations and you'll learn how to use your new colored pencil talent to color fabric to make a bookmark, wood to make a magnet and a card. 2-4pm on March 13. $35.

Angie Platten used her own hand to make the pattern for this book, but you'll use your hand to make yours. Not only make the book, but learn lots of technique to paint the pages. Angie made one of these books using the hands of all the people in her family. Maybe she'll bring it to class to show you how! Class is all day Sunday, March 14, 10-5. $55. Bring your hands!

Marcia Nolfi is a new teacher at our store. She has fallen in love with bookbinding and she really wants to share with you! Marcia has a special talent for taking a bookbinding technique and making a very special book! This one has an Alice in Wonderland theme. Check out the wonderful crown on the front of the book! Class is Saturday, March 20, 2-5pm. $45. Bring your basic bookbinding tools.

(this is my favorite page in her book!)

Angie is back again on Monday, March 22, 10am-1pm, to teach us how to draw and paint simple, yet beautiful, flowers on a small canvas using watercolors. Angie makes it easy! $30.

Dina's Intro to Art Journaling class continues to be a big hit! Come see what it's all about! Saturday, March 27, 2-5pm. $35. Bring some acrylic paints, gesso, a couple of brushes (3/4, 1 inch), your journal if you want.

There are a couple of classes without pictures that should be mentioned here:

Saturday, March 20, 10-1:30: Different Point of View, with Judy. $35.

Tuesday, March 2, at 11am, 2pm or 5:30pm: Book of the Month, with Kathie. $25.

Thursday, March 25, 6-8pm: Guest Artist, Terri Sproul, with a cute little tag book. $25.

Friday, March 26 AND April 9, 5:30-9pm: Remember: Book in a Box, with Marta. $85.

Call the store or come in (then you can see the samples in person!) to sign up for class. We hope to see you in one soon!

And the secret word is HAPPY

CHA, CHA, CHA

2010-02-01T22:15:00.000-08:00

At CHA, all the vendors outdo themselves with samples of their newest and older products. Here are just a few pics I took at some of the booths:

This is a familiar image from Dreamweaver, with a new spin: dry embossing in the background.
And here is their newest gecko image (although not my best photo).

And a picture of Tim Holtz, without a doubt the most famous man in the industry. Here he is at the Ranger booth showing off his 12 new colors of Distress inks.

This is a little triptych that we purchased for our Accu-Cut. Watch for a class (or two) from this one!

And a couple of the new lines of paper from Graphic 45. Here is "On the Boardwalk"

and here is "A Proper Gentleman".

And I love anything with grunge paper flowers. Here's a sample from the Advantus booth.

So you see I got around. The good news is that you'll be seeing all this wonderful "stuff" in the store soon. Be watching for lots of it in new classes from our amazing teachers.

Altered Flight

2009-12-05T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!
Judy's Altered Flight class is in full swing and all the girls are having a great time!
Here are a few of the birds "in progress"!!!

See you soon!

As Promised...

2009-11-30T18:15:00.001-08:00

As promised ( a little late, but I was super busy today checking in product at the store with Delia), here are some teasers for the cards for the 10-Card Extravaganza. The pictures are fuzzy because the cards are behind plastic, but you'll get the idea.

The next couple of pictures are of the "Wrap it Up" class with Lynda Abare. The class costs $45 and is a great way to get started with metal embossing or hone your skills if you've already taken a couple of Lynda's classes. She is teaching this class on Thursday, December 10 and Sunday, December 6 at 2pm.

This is Lynda's Milagro Ornament class. It is also $45 and you will make several of the ornaments. These are just a couple of examples. Lynda has lots for you to choose. This class is on Thursday, December 10 and Sunday, December 6 at 10am.

The next 4 pictures of of some of the cards for Ken Pesho's Dreamweaver Stencil Paste class. As of today, there are only 2 spots left for this popular class. And we won't have Ken back until February (boohoo). There will be 7 cards in all for $30. This class is Saturday, December 5 at 2pm.

The next 2 pictures are of the 12 Days of Christmas Jacob's Ladder. Remember those fun toys from when you were a kid? Come learn how to make one! Kathie is teaching this class on Saturday, December 12 at 10am. Cost is $30.

The next 2 pictures are of Melanie's class on Saturday, December 12 at 2pm. You will make 3 iris-folded Christmas cards. These are beautiful, and Melanie is our resident expert at iris folding! The class costs $25.

That's it for now. We certainly hope to see you all at the 10-Card Extravaganza on Tuesday, December 1. Remember to bring a canned good or non-perishable food item for St. Mary's Food Bank to get 10% off your purchases that day only.

Classes, Classes, Classes!!

2009-11-15T23:41:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!

Another week has gone by so fast and we are that much closer to Christmas! So much to do, so little time. Don't we all know when Christmas comes every year? And yet, if you are like me, you are just starting on your presents--yes, even the ones that you are making yourself. Let us help you with a few. We have some great classes still coming up this year!

**Marta taught her Christmas Countdown Blocks this last Saturday. It was a hit, and a full class. Marta is trying to get a few "blank" blocks for us. We'll only have 5 or 6 if we get them, so let us know if we can hold one for you. The cost will be $35 or $40.
**Book of the Month is Tuesday, November 17. The evening and morning classes are full, but we could probably squeeze in one or two more at 2pm.

**Melanie's Wild, Wacky, Weird, Wonderful Women Altered Book on Friday, November 20 is a full class. Beg her to do another altered book soon, because she makes such beautiful art!

**Saturday, November 21, 10am-1pm: Different Point of View. $30. Wait till you see this stamp! Only 3 spots left when we looked last.

**We had to wait for Judy's Songbird book class, but it was worth it! This little book is just beautiful! Class is on Saturday, November 21, 2-5pm. $25.

**Tuesday, November 24, 10:30am-1:30pm: More Art Journaling. This is the continuation class after you've done the Intro class. Jump into any open class after the Intro class and continue on your Art Journaling journey with Dina. This class is full, but there are two coming up in January that are still open.

**On the Friday after Thanksgiving, we will be closed. Spend time with your family or go "Black Friday" shopping. But on Saturday, spend some time with us. We'll be having a Studio day, making Outlines Ornament Toppers. These are really fun and easy, what a great way to spend the day! You pay $5 for the studio fee. We'll provide the embossing powders, ink, the Stickles, sparkle pens, and Smooch. You buy your paper (including velvet and mirror papers and other cardstock) and embellishments. Ornaments will be there for you for $1 each untill they are gone, or use your own.

**Tuesday, December 1, 10am-8pm. The last 10-Card Extravaganza of the year. It's all about Christmas cards. Bring a canned good or non-perishable food item for the St. Mary's Food Bank and you can have 10% off your sales for that day (not including the cards).

**Lynda Abare is back!! Yeah!! She'll be teaching metal embossing and making Milagro Christmas Ornaments. We did this last year and it was a huge hit! Thursday, December 10 and Sunday, December 6, 10am-1pm. $45.

**Lynda will be teaching a second class on those same days from 2-5pm: "Wrap it Up".

**Make and Takes continue every Wednesdays from 10am-2pm and Thursdays from 4:30-7pm, except Thanksgiving evening.

**See you soon! the gals at the Creative Quest

Hi from Northern California

2009-11-08T19:26:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!

No pictures tonight, but thought that I'd drop a line from Monterey CA. I am here with a friend taking a Watercolor Journaling class. The area is absolutely beautiful and the venue is great. It's a lot like going to camp, but with indoor bathrooms! Our room looks right out on the Pacific Ocean. I am learning tons, and thinking about asking these girls to come over to Glendale and teach for a weekend at the store. Might any of you like to do a watercolor journaling intensive weekend? When I get home, I'll post pictures of some of my work. See you soon!

Kathie

Sewing "Bugs" on a book!

2009-11-03T19:12:00.000-08:00

We had a lot of fun on Friday and Saturday! Thank you to the 11 women who braved this book!
These two gals were brand new to bookbinding, and they did great!

Deborah has made many books with me!

Bookbinding is an age-old craft that everyone can do, so don't be afraid to sign up and learn how to make books!

It's Been a Long Time, but I'm Back!!

2009-11-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!
Well, I've been gone along time, but I am back! I promised a blog post last week, but last week flew somwhere...has anyone seen it, because I am sure that it went by and I missed it completely! Anyway, I am trying something new. I will post the classes coming up over the next few weeks here along with pictures that I have of them. Let's see how this goes!

Wednesday, November 4, 5-8pm: Magenta Cards, with Helene. $30. Here is my favorite of the 4 cards you'll be making. One spot still left as of Tuesday night.
Thursday, November 5 @ 10am OR 5:30pm: Play with Judy. $20. Still spots left in the morning class and a couple in the evening. NO AFTERNOON CLASS THIS MONTH.

Saturday and Sunday, November 7-8. Mesa Rubber Stamp Convention. We are all out of tickets. Sorry...

Friday, November 13, 5:30-8:30pm: Intro to Art Journaling, with Dina. $35. Dina has been gone to Europe, but she's back and we have her scheduled to teach twice this month. Her other class is Art Journaling Cont. on Tuesday, November 24. Both these classes are full. Call the store to put your name down, so we can schedule another session!
Saturday, November 14, 10am-5pm: Christmas Countdown Blocks, with Marta. $65. Class full.

Sunday, November 15, 11am-5pm: Joy Banner, with Marta. $45. This class has a few openings still.

Monday, November 16, 11:30am-1:30pm: Journaling, with Quinn. $15. Join this fun group!

Tuesday, November 17 @ 11am OR 2pm OR 5:30pm: Book of the Month, with Kathie. $20.

Thursday, November 19, 5:30-6:30pm: ATC Exchange. Theme: Male (non-chick) stuff.

Friday, November 20, 5:30-9pm: Altered Book, with Melanie. Class is full.

Saturday, November 21, 10am-1pm. Different Point of View, with Judy. $30. Make 5 cards using the same stamp and get the stamp as part of the class fee.

Saturday, November 21, 2-5pm: Song Bird Book, with Judy. $25. Beautiful book, beautiful papers, lots of fun! This class is in place of the "Little Book of Joy" on the November calendar on the website.

So, these are many of the new classes at the store. More coming into December. Also, new in the store: Magenta stamps, Great Impressions Board of the Month, Verses stamps, Graphic 45 Christmas and Renaissance papers, Magenta Christmas papers.

Hope to see you soon!

MORE FROM FRANCE!!

2009-06-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi! More pictures from France. Yes, the little restaurants really look like this. Cute and quaint, and the food is good for the most part. I have experimented with a couple of things that I won't try again!
This is the pyramid at the Louvre. You know, from the DaVinci Code.

This is "Winged Victory". Isn't she beautiful

Another sculpture from the Louvre...Oh, and of course I saw Mona!

We have seen at least 100 rose windows in cathedrals here! No, I am not exaggerating! They are all different and they are all beautiful!

I am having fun, not sleeping enough, writing in my journal, learning to type on a keyboard that is very different, eating, walking, walking, taking the Metro, walking, taking a zillion pictures, did I say walking....Love you all, Kathie

I am in France!

2009-06-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!! Well, here I am in Paris at an internet cafe. Even the keyboard is different here. My sister, Denise, and I are having a great time and seeing so many sights. Be sure to ask to see my journal when I return. Here is a bridge over the river Seine and the Eiffel Tower in the background.

I'm on my way

2009-06-08T09:42:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful moon shot, not from Paris, but from Dallas. I came through Dallas to go with my sister Denise to Paris. We are on the plane later this afternoon. If I can, I will blog a little from Paris, so watch for more posts. If not, you'll have to see some pictures when I return. Be sure to go by the store often this summer and get your Catlin Cash to use on August 29! See you in July...Kathie

Judy's Classes at the Glendale Convention

2009-03-16T12:34:00.000-07:00

Did you miss Judy's classes at the Glendale Stamp Convention? Well, then you missed alot of fun! On Friday, Judy taught an amazing and easy class using metal, and embossing and alcohol inks to make a wonderful frame. Here's Judy doing her thing.
Delia and Lyndaeven took advantage of the day off to play and have fun!

Florence, arranging her tiles.

More works in progress. They are coming along. You see that gloves might be a good idea when you're doing this project!

These are almlost finished.

TaDA!!!!

CHA is arriving at the Creative Quest!!

2009-02-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

Here are those wonderful "cooking" papers that Kathie used on her recipe "book" last month. The papers were so popular with the class that most of you never got to see them. Fun project, and easy. Come in and see how it's put together. We'll even cut the book board and dividers for you! Here are some different 'kitchen-y" papers, great for a recipe book. These have ribbons that go with them.

And, who can resist Prima papers and flowers? These are all new this year. And even better in person!

Even more new stuff in the store since I took these pictures Tuesday night. Come see!

ATC: Artists Talking and Carrying on!

2009-02-20T21:11:00.000-08:00

All the girls had a great time at the ATC Exchange Thursday evening. ATC's are really fun to make and exchange with others. It's easy. Barb, in the mauve top, is the coordinator for our group. You can contact her through the store if you'd like to join in. We meet on the third Thursday of each month (during That Thursday Thing in downtown Glendale) from 5-7pm. Each month there is a theme, and someone in the group demo's something, or shares a technique or something fun!

It's great fun. Join us and see.....

Thanks For Spending Our Birthday With Us!

2009-02-15T23:56:00.000-08:00

First of all I have to tell you this is Marta, and I am highjacking Kathie & Judy's blog! Actually they asked me to add some pictures from the festivities yesterday. Were you there? Did you win one of the door prizes they gave away every half hour? Did you wear your apron and get your special discount? Did you have one of those delicious red velvet cupcakes? I sure hope so. I know I was there, wore and apron, got a discount, ate a cupcake, but sadly won no prize.

Okay, enough of my ramblings, let's look at the pictures. . .

What kind of birthday would it be without balloons!

Look at those cute ladies in their uber sweet aprons!

It wouldn't be a party at "The Quest" without Mellanie & Delia! Even they were sporting super cute aprons!
There's those delicious red velvet cupcakes - YUM!

Here are Kathie and Judy hiding out in the office - looks like they were up to "something". I wonder what it was????

So sassy! Gotta love Judy in her Ed Hardy tee - perfect for Valentine's Day!

Stike a pose Mellanie! You are too cute in your purple and dragon flies! So YOU!

Here's Delia checking up on me while I was hiding out in the office!

Did you make yourself one of these great paper flowers while you were here? They all turned out so cute - what a great idea for a party favor!

OMG! Look at those legs!!!!! Yes, there was even a man or two at the store to celebrate! Although Harry was the only one to put on an apron and ask to have his picture taken!

Perfect timing. . . some of the CHA goodies arrived in time for the party! Including (my favorite) the NEW Graphic 45 collection!

And the new and improved Bind-it-All. Look how pretty in pink it is now!

It was a great day at The Creative Quest! People were shopping, eating, visiting and creating. That is just what we expect to happen there.

What a great place! Kathie and Judy have really done an outstanding job at making this less like a business and more like a place for us to feed our creative soul! Here you will find Great Friends, Great Classes, and Great Products! I know I speak for everyone when I say I hope we will be celebrating birthdays with Kathie and Judy at "The Creative Quest" for many more years!!!!

(insert lifting of champagne glass for a toast here)

Cheers!

CHA Orders are rolling in!

2009-02-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

Well, products are already starting to show up in the store from our trip to Anaheim. Here are the corner rounders from Zutter. These babies will cut through anything!
And here are the new Bind-ItAll's. They are a bit more expensive than the blue ones, but there are some new features, including a wider space for product to cut. Also, they are PINK!

And so many new books just came in that it took 2 pictures to show them all to you!

Don't forget that this Saturday is our 5th Anniversary!! We are so happy to be able to celebrate with all of you . Thank you for supporting us. We hope to be here for you for many more years!

We're tired, but happy

2009-01-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Judy and I have had a great time at CHA. We are so excited about the new products that we'll be bring into the store! On our way back today and we'll be in the store on Saturday. Come by and see us. Pictures later when we get home

Happy New Year

2009-01-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

I have been really bad about posting to the blog, and so my New Year's resolution this year is to you: that I will be a better blogger! So there.

Be sure to check out the website. I have reworked the class pictures and I think that you'll like the new format. Let me know.

Also, if you are following our blog on a regular basis (and I will give you reson to, I promise), please be sure to make yourself a "follower" to the blog. Just go over to the area over to the right that says "Follow your Art to the Creative Quest" and sign up. Let's see how many followers we can get!

So, lots of classes coming up, and new products in the store. Judy and I will be going to CHA, which is the big trade show for the craft industry, at the end of this month. Let us know what you'd like to see in the shop.

"Talk" to you again soon!

Scrapbooking comes to the Creative Quest

2008-11-24T22:43:00.001-08:00

Our wonderful customer and friend, Dana Frey, is our newest teacher here at the Creative Quest. In your quest to be more organized, more creative and more "in the moment", Dana has come up with a great intro to scrapbooking. In your 1st class, you'll learn how to get started taking care of your pictures and getting them into a place where you and your loved ones can enjoy them.
Here is an example of a scrapbook page you may make. Of course you will use your own pictures! Call the store to sign up and find out what to bring.

Then Dana has more fun planned for you! Join the club, learn new techniques and find out about the latest products. Put your own pictures in and share with the group every month!

We hope that you will join us in adding this component to the store. We want to be the store for all your paper-crafting needs (and wants)!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

2008-11-11T21:21:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!

Here are the pictures of the Snow Day projects. Sheryl Johnson will be teaching this all day class THIS Saturday! 5 projects, all snowy in nature! This first picture is of a cutting board, stamped and embellished tea towel with a set of measuring spoons and a spatula. Great present!
These candles are covered in cinnamon, cloves and other spices. Our store smells great--your house will, too!

Check out this goodie dish!

Chocolate spoons, hot chocolate mix and a snowman cup--does it feel like winter yet?

And this one is my personal favorite! I love this light dressed up like a snowman! He is wonderful! Don't you want one for your home? All your friends will want one too. You NEED to know how to make these...

The sample are even better in person. Come in and see them, then sign up for the class(es). $75, all supplies included, for the all day class and all 5 of these fabulous projects!

New Classes at the Creative Quest

2008-11-03T21:44:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

We have a couple of new classes coming up really soon at the Creative Quest. One is "Let's Have a Ball" where you get to make 5 Christmas ball ornaments and one little book ornament. This class is THIS SATURDAY, 2-5PM. Jennifer is teaching this class--lots of fun: glass etching, glitter, pearl powders, decoupage and paint, plus a little bookbinding.

Also, Melanie is teaching another Iris Folding holiday card class on Wednesday, November 14, from 9am-12 noon. Four beautiful cards, $25. Sign up soon so Melanie can get your class kits ready!

More pictures tomorrow! VOTE! See you soon!

Magenta comes to the Creative Quest

2008-10-30T23:11:00.001-07:00

Hi all! Long time, no blog...

Helene from Magenta is coming to teach us on Monday, November 3, from 3-6pm. Here are the cards. They are even more beautiful in real life. Come in and see them at the store. We did not get the samples till late, and with my other computer problems, I have not had the opportunity to show them to you on the blog or email. We need 8 people for the class to go, so hurry, hurry and sign up. The Magenta gals come all the way from Canada twice a year for the Mesa Convention and we always try to have them teach while they are here.

Sorry the next 2 cards are sideways, but I do not know how to turn them on my Mac, so just turn your head a little to the left so you can get a good look.

The white cards are especially pretty. I really hope that the class goes because I wanted to take it too. Y'all come take it with me!
See you soon! And call the store to sign up for this or any of out other classes!

It's Fall

2008-10-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Here is the Make and Take card for this week, on October 15 and 16.
Also, remember that Play with Judy is this week, onThursday, but only at 10am and at 5:30pm. Call the store to sign up. Judy's wonderful technique-driven cards are always great, and her classes are always full, so if you want a spot, call on Wednesday to let us know you're coming!

Melanie has added an Altered Books session during the day! This Friday, from 9am-noon, she'll be starting her first daytime class. Your first time will cost you $35, and Melanie will provide your book. After that, it's only $25 each time. Everybody is having lots of fun in these classes, so join in!

Don't forget the 10-Card Extravaganza next Tuesday--fall, Halloween and Thanksgiving cards.

See you soon!

Stampendous fun

2008-10-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, this Saturday, October 11, Stampendous is sending us a wonderful little demo. Join us at the store all morning for Trisha from Stampendous. She'll be demoing stamps and more. Then at 2pm, she'll be teaching a great little class. Maybe she'll even bring extra kits so if you want to jump into the class, you can. Come have fun with us! See you tomorrow....

Make and Take, and more classes

2008-10-07T23:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!

First, let me tell you that Play with Judy will NOT be this week. Play with Judy will be next week, on October 16. She will teach it at 10am and at 5:30pm. Sorry for the change in plans.

Make and Take is really cute this week. Simple stamping, a little scrapbook paper and some layering and you have a really wonderful card!

On the last Saturday of October, we will be introducing a new teacher: Kim Minneci! Kim is jumping right in with this beautiful little book using a binding called the "Secret Belgian Binding" along with a box to house it. It all matches. She has a few spots left in the class, so don't be shy.

And this Saturday, that's right this Saturday, Stampendous will be sending a teacher to our store just to showcase their cute little monkey stamps (and one cute little kitty) with these really adorable holiday cards. Stampendous is one of our favorite companies. There are 3-4 spots still open in this class. Let's show these gals how much we love their company and their stamps! The class is only $25 and starts at 2pm on Saturday. Call the store to sign up!

Our first West Valley Mixed Media Arts group met tonight at the store. There were 13 of us. We are really excited about out group! Lots of plans for sharing ideas, techniques, and information. We also talked about doing some altruistic work--it's good to "give back". The next meeting will be on Wednesday, November 12 at 6:30 at the Creative Quest. Join us!

Fall is finally here

2008-10-03T14:12:00.001-07:00

Finally, the weather is starting to cool off and we can once again spend more time outdoors! At the Creative Quest, that means classes, classes and more classes!

This Thursday is Play with Judy. Sorry for any inconvenience that this was on the calendar for yesterday. Judy is is a new play at the Starlight Theater in Sun City West and we have had to adjust her classes accordingly. I did not get it changed on the calendar. But she will be here on Thursday, October 9 at 10am and at 5:30pm, so come in and "Play withJudy". Be sure to call and let us know you are coming.

Kathie's Book of the Month is Tuesday, October 14 (on the 2nd Tuesday instead of the 3rd this month). It's a nice 2 signature, sewn book in basic blaqck and white. Photo to follow tomorrow or the next day.

You asked for it and Melanie has put it on the calendar. She has added an altered book class on a weekday during the day. This month it's on Friday, October 17 from 9-12am. If you are new, the cost is $35 and if you are returning, it's $25. We know that some of you don't like to drive at night and this class will be perfect.

Marta will be teaching her 2009 Date Planner on Saturday, October 11 from 10am-1pm. The cost is only $25. You pick your own paper so it will be personalized for you. This is a great gift project, and Marta has already done all the work on the inside getting the calendars ready for next year. You may even want a couple of extra kits!

The gals from one of our favorite companies, Stampendous, will be in the store on October 11, too. They are teaching this fun, furry Christmas card class from 2-5pm. And they be there early to do some demo-ing with their stamps. Stampendous is the company that brings us flocking in lots of colors, and all those fun monkey stamps! The class is only $25, and it is always a privelage to have the folks from the company in to teach.

So, along with new products, we are excited to offer you so many wonderful classes and teachers.

In fact, coming up soon, Ken Pesho will be teaching us how to use stencils and stencil paste to create some beautiful cards; Melanie has another Iris Folding Holiday card class; and the 10-Card Extravaganza is around the corner on October 21!

Come see us soon!

Come and get them

2008-09-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

We got 6 new Somerset magazines yesterday! Stamper's Sampler, Somerset Memories, Haute Handbags, Life Images ...

Tomorrow is an artsy day at the Quest--classes with Josie Cirincione and Sheryl Johnson!

We finally have Judy scheduled to teach calligraphy! She'll be teaching a 4 week class on basic italic--the 2nd and 3rd Thursday in November and the 1st and 2nd Thursday in December (just taking the break for Thanksgiving). Judy teaches this class in SunCity West for their calligraphy society and her classes are always full and fun! Even if you know a little lettering, this is a great refresher course. $75 for the 4 week class.

Next month, Melanie will be adding a weekday Altered Book class on a Friday morning from 9am-12noon. Some of you have wanted a daytime class and here it is. Jump into this really fun, go at your own pace and about your own theme class. The first class is $35 and after that just $25 each month. Melanie provides the book for altering.

Join us for fun!

2008-09-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!
We've been really busy in the store opening boxes from B-Line Designs and Prima and Fiskars, and having a trunk show from Hero Arts, that I haven't had a chance to blog. And apparently, you missed me because I heard you were asking about it.

Here are some great classes that are coming up soon in the store! First, next weekend, on October 4, Lynda Abare will be teaching metal embossing. You'll be using pewter to make 2 switchplates. Haven't you always wanted to change out those ugly plastic ones all over your house, or at least in the public rooms? This is your chance to make a couple of really pretty ones and learn the technique so you can make more! Wouldn't these make beautiful house-warming presents too?
Marta will be teaching her 2009 Planner again in October. This is a great little book for your important dates. How impressive to pull this book out to make an appointment. Great gift item for Christmas, too. You pick the paper for your book, so it will suit you.

Our Hero Arts/ Prima/ Fiskars/ etc. rep, Krista, is teaching this really, really cute little book named after the Beatles song, "8 Days a Week". It's a fabulous book for your sweetie. It doesn't have to be Valentine's Day to show him that you love him!

Here are a couple of inside pictures of the "8 Days a Week" book.

And lastly, for this blog entry is my little ribboned spine journal. It's happening this Sunday from 2-5pm. You don't really want to sit at home with all that football noise, do you? I have 3-4 spots left in the class as of today. Call the store by Saturday afternoon if you want to join me.

I know that you'll want to see all the new products that have been rolling into the store, so pop in soon!

I'm Back

2008-09-18T22:43:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!! Good to be back. I was in Albuquerque last weekend with my husband, Don. Don is from Albuquerque. He has 7 brothers (and no sisters!) and we were there for a little family reunion. It was the first time all the brothers were together in 27 years! Oh my.

Here are a couple of classes that are coming up next weekend. Josie Cirincione is teaching this really wonderful necklace using cold connections (no heat, no soldering) and plexiglass. You can use a different picture if you would like. The copper is etched, too. Great project, lots of techniques.
This class is a really fun canvas just in time to adorn your home for Halloween! Sheryl Johnson is teaching it. Are you a good witch or a bad witch? Come to class and find out!

Will blog more this weekend. I know that we have just gotten in more Halloween paper and Christmas paper has started to come in, too. Prima sent us flowers and clear "paintables" that will make really beautiful acetate books. You can paint them with alcohol inks, blending solution and a water brush. Just ask us how! We love to share...

Stampers Anonymous is finally here

2008-09-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
Finally after ordering more than a month ago, the new Stampers Anonymous stamps, including many new Tim Holtz stamps are here!! So, if you love Tim's stamps, or just collect them, hurry in to get yours. When we reorder, and I am sure we will, this is not a fast-ship company.

Also, just to let you know, we did 834 cards on Tuesday at the 10-Card Extravaganza! Thanks for being a part of this really fun event with us. See you again soon!

Vote for us-it all depends on you

2008-09-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the Make & Take card for this Wednesday and Thursday. Don't forget that tomorrow is the 10-Card Extravaganza!

Hey, this is your chance to put us "on top". Here is the link to vote for us in the New Times "Best of Phoenix" issue: http://phoenixnewtimes.com/polls/bestof08/ . Just go to #107 and #108. In #107, type in "Best Paper Arts Store" and in #108, type in our name! That's it. Of course, you can vote in all the other categories too. All votes will be greatly appreciated.

Don't forget the 10-Card Extravaganza...and more

2008-09-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a busy week at the Creative Quest. To be honest, it'll be a busy month. It's so great to see so many of you signing up for classes! We really have a wonderful variety for you to choose from and we are happy to see you all stretching your creative limits and learning new things!

This Tuesday, September 9, is our 10-Card Extravaganza from 10am till 8pm. 10 All-Occasion cards to choose from (or make them all) for only $1 each!

Then Judy is having her Play with Judy classes on Thursday, September 11 at 10am and again at 5:30pm. Judy does 6 cards that are technique-driven for only $20. And if you've never seen the cards Judy makes, you are in for a real treat.

The picture below is Melanie's Iris Folding Holiday card class. It has been so popular that she will be teaching it twice on Saturday, September 20: at 10am and at 2pm. Still a few spots left, so call to sign up.
This class is the Airmail Envelope Album. Jennifer is teaching this one on Saturday, September 13. You'll make 2 of these precious little mail-able albums. Jennifer will bring lots of examples and you'll have your choice of colors and themes. Great gift idea!

Josie Cirincione will be joining us again on Saturday, September 27 to teach this cold connection shrine necklace. Cold connection means no soldering or heat involved. There are a few tools involved so call the store to get the scoop. Plexiglass and copper never looked so good!

Then, in plenty of time for Halloween, on Saturday, September 27, Sheryl Johnson is with us again to make this great Halloween decoration for your home. Are you a good witch or a bad witch? Come to class and find out!

And I asked about Sunday afternoon classes. I got a good response, so I'll be the first to see how it goes. On Sunday, September 28, from 2-5pm, come in and make this beautiful little journal for yourself or for a gift. Ribbons on the spine, a flower on the cover and lots of pages.

No matter what, pop in to see us. We're here to spark your curiosity and your creativity. Oh, and starting Monday, we'll be open on Mondays again from 11am-3pm. See you soon!

Lot of new, fun Stuff....for you

2008-09-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

Just thought that I'd share some of the product that came in this week. Making Memories has some great new Halloween paper, and it's the first Halloween paper we've gotten in so far.
Magenta and Stampendous came in too with Christmas stamps!

Great stickers and these wonderful clear mounted snowmen, and new little pails, great for gifts!

I really love these Diamond Dots...all the bling of rhinestones, but flat!

And, of course, flocking!!

I understand we got new stamps from Coronado Island stamps today, and they do the very BEST animals!

See you soon!!

Here is the Make and Take card...

2008-09-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

See how great this is! Delia sent me the picture and now here it is for you to see before Make and Take!
Today we got in some beautiful fall paper and some stamps from Magenta. We also got flocking, diamond dots, little pails and stamps from Stampendous. It was a good day with the UPS and Fed Ex guys!

Welcome to our Blog...finally.

2008-08-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

So, here I am finally posting a blog. My plan here is to keep you all up with what is happening at the store, and maybe sometimes with us. First, Judy and I would like to thank everyone who attended our Creative Quest Bucks Party Saturday. We had great fun getting together all those goodies for you, and it looked like everyone had fun picking out their "purchases". The silent auction was also a big success. Here's a list of the art pieces(the contributor) and the winners:

Beaded Canvas (Rosaling Hannibal): Freddie Moseley
Wire Necklace (Rosalind Hannibal): Molly Lootens
Tim Holtz Diva Necklace (Melanie Joy): Jan Shank
Magenta Floral Triptych (the Creative Quest): Sue Komernicky
Framed "You are Amazing" (Ken & Delia Pesho): Tracie Obermiller
Framed Lion Print (Sheryl Johnson): Freddie Moseley
Framed Bird Print (Ken & Delia Pesho): Sandy Kelly
Christmas Tile Mirror (Judy Ross): Sheryl Johnson
Framed Believe Sunset (Ken & Delia Pesho): Sandy Kelly
Paris Canvas Pair (Judy Ross): Karen Smith
Tall Journal (Kathie Shepherd): Sandy Kelly
Dragonfly Journal (Kathie Shepherd): Chris Daddona
Framed 4-Tile Art (Ken & Delia Pesho): Sandy Kelly
Paris Journal (Kathie Shepherd): Chris Daddona
Etched Metal House Journal (Josie Cirincione): Chris Daddona
Framed Evening Art (Ken & Delis Pesho): Sandy Kelly
Four by Four Journal (Kathie Shepherd): Morgan Poland
Beaded Cuff Bracelet (Rosalind Hannibal): Freddie Moseley

Congratulations to all the winning bidders. Enjoy your art!

Let's start with some of the classes that are coming up. This weekend, Judy is repeating her Poinsettia Different Point of View, and it is a full class. I am teaching how to make my Irish Journal. This is the journal that I used this summer when I went to Ireland. It worked great, and I think that I would make it again to go on another trip. The class this Saturday is full, but I'll start a waiting list, because I would love to teach you!

Next weekend, Jennifer is teaching her Airmail Envelope Books. See the pictures below. You will make 2 of these great little books and matching envelopes. I'm not sure that you could send them "airmail", but they are great for sticking a few pictures in or making a mini scrapbook to send to a loved one!

On the last Saturday of September, Josie will be teaching this great little gem. You'll be using plexiglass, etched copper and fun little brads and screws (who knew they came this small?). Josie is a wonderful teacher with 2 books already under her belt. Don't be left out. Join us!

Also on the last Saturday, Sheryl Johnson will be teaching a really fun canvas project entitled "Are you a Good Witch, or a Bad Witch?" I have already seen this canvas almost finished, and belileve me, you'll want this one for your home!

See you soon at the Creative Quest, and visit our blog often. I will try to keep up!