giveaway!

Hello lovely friends! I'm still here- just spending most of my time over at instagram these days. I do hope you'll join me there- it's quite cozy and I'd love to stay connected with you. In fact, I'm hosting my first instagram giveaway over there right now. I'm offering a signed copy of Hope, Make, Heal along with the original feathered banner from the last chapter. I will be tucking in a surprise or two, as well. Heading to my studio right now to work on a little something for the sweet winner.

If you'd like to enter, hop over!

xxx

Maya

Artful Christmas- a review and giveaway!!

I have a treat for us today! Artful Christmas (published by Lark Crafts) is the brand new book by Susan Wasinger. I've loved all of her books. She's a creative whirlwind of ideas that combine clever techniques with easy (and often eco) materials. All of which wouldn't impress me as much if I didn't also love her aesthetic- a compliment I don't hand out liberally. And she's prolific- check out her books here. My love for the winter holidays and resourceful decorating is no secret… so Susan has just published one of my new favorite books. I'm pretty certain that you'll love it too.

 Some of her projects are not new, but the easy instructions and little twists she uses makes each one fresh and more enticing than ever. I've always wanted to make a doily bowl… now I actually will.  Can you imagine a holiday table with a smattering of different sized "snowflake" bowls holding votives?! Lovely!

 Stocking Inspiration is always welcome. I might even make the three of us a new set this year. Time for fresh starts on old traditions. And what to do with those old decks missing a few cards? Love these ornaments.

 Needle-felted wool on linen with raw edges! Need I say more? 

 And then there's the advent calendar… Susan shares some brilliant ways to create different designs on the front with stencils and stamps. Stencils and stamps may be two of my favorite words!

With 30 craft projects for Christmas making, all are quite elegant even if the materials are very humble. I envision pulling this out each year- excited to try something new. I think it would make a perfect present waiting under the tree for all of the crafty folks out there… and worth checking out right now to add some making magic to this festive month.

And here comes the giveaway! Thank you to Susan and Lark Crafts, who would love to offer one of you (in the US or Canada) a copy. Please leave a comment below by Monday 12/9 at 9pm. Perhaps share one of your favorite things about this time of year: a smell, a craft, a treat, or an activity. I'll announce the randomly selected winner on Tuesday!  Good luck!

Now I'm off to paper punch some more playing cards for some weekend fun!

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And the winner is…

Karen PeacockDecember 5, 2014 at 5:39 PM

Now I know what I can do with all those playing cards floating around here! Every year I look forward to getting out my grandmother's "Christmas is Coming" craft books from the 80's. I really need to update my collection!! 

blogiversary bucket giveaway!

This week marks 6 years of maya*made! It has offered so many tremendous gifts along with an unexpected career... True confidence in my creativity, dozens of publishing opportunities, a new lens to view my world, inspiring collaborations, loving friendships, and a connection to all of you amazing folks that stop by regularly to see what's new. I think we need a little celebration, don't you?

Every party needs a treat... these congo bars have been a huge success. Three batches in 4 days (ok one was for my son's bake sale, but still!) means they meet my standard baking criteria: they must be quick and easy... and of course make my kids ask for "just one more, pleeeeeease". I used this recipe but tossed all ingredients into one bowl, beginning with wet and ending with dry. I omitted the nuts and made my own brown sugar. It seems like good base recipe for fun adaptions.

How about a present... what's a birthday (blogiversary) without a gift? I would be delighted to make a sweet custom bucket for all of you, but we'll just have keep it to one lucky winner. Maybe it will be you!

If you'd like to win small linen bucket printed with a choice of any of my stamps- please leave a comment below by Sunday at 5pm. I'd love to hear one of your favorite maya*made projects from over the years or maybe what stamp you'd choose. The winner will be announced Monday morning.

Good luck and thank you for an amazing 6 years!

wise craft- a review and giveaway!

I have exceptionally high standards when it comes to craft books. I was particular before I authored my own, and now even more so. There are a lot to choose from, and rarely do I get excited. But I am today, as I share Blair Stocker's newly published WISE CRAFT, named after her equally wonderful blog. It's the first book in so long that has me bookmarking page after page of things that I can't wait to try. She offers 60 cross-crafting projects organized by seasons. That's a lot of inspiration packed into one beautifully designed manual of how-to's. Did I mention that the materials are all thrifted or natural objects? Yes, this book totally speaks to me... 

And therefore- I'm fairly certain it will speak to you!

 I always enjoy finding uses for all of the little leather scraps I save. This pan (above) handle cover caught my eye immediately, and so off I went to my sewing machine. It took only 15 minutes and I'm kind of in love with its beautiful simplicity. It can also be made with wool. I want to dress up all of my pan handles now. (See mine below.)

 Here's the other leather project I'm itching to try...

 As I said, 60 projects all designed with Blair's talented eye and edgy, modern/retro, classic aesthetic. You can see lots more pics and read about the behind the scenes right here...

And she's offering an extra copy to one of you! Please leave your name and link/email in the comment section before Sunday at 5pm. I'll announce the randomly selected winner on Monday morning! Good luck! Congratulations Blair, it's phenomenal!

feeling good!

 I've dappled in water colors my whole life without any training, consistency or end goal.  I just know that they make me feel good when I use them. Definitely a process tool for me.  I had no idea what a sweet response I would get from a couple of feathers. Thank you! I think they've become the springboard for something new and so very fun... so don't be surprised if you see a few more soon. These next ones were detailed with white ink, rather than a micron. But my trusty microns are waiting for me to return to them tonight. They're are definitely calling me... Microns are also the tool of choice on Creativebug's newest workshop- a 4 week drawing class with Lisa Congdon.  Thanks Rebecca, for pointing me towards it. I'm in that juicy place where I'm ripe with new ideas, so the timing couldn't be more perfect for fresh inspiration and guidance. I watched last night and am all fired up. Give it a try! (Subscriptions at Creativebug are now only $10 a month and that includes EVERY workshop imaginable.)

The combination of doing new things, using bright colors and immersing myself in my nightly read of SHE, has helped me jumpstart my way into a fresh season, even though I can't see the ground beneath the snow yet. The first week of March has been a good one!

And now I'm so pleased that I get to announce the winner of her own copy of SHE...

jenny dunhamMarch 5, 2014 at 8:58 AM

this book looks gorgeous and from what i can see, offers such a powerful and uplifting message! thanks for the opportunity.

Congratulations! I will email you for your address!

Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

SHE- a review and giveaway!

  It's a new month... it's a fresh week! We're heading towards spring, whether today's snow flurries likes it or not! There is a hint of good beginnings in the air, and I'm certain that this new book has contributed to my enthusiasm about where I'm headed. And yes- this is yet another wonderful project that one of the many awesome women in my life has just brought into the world. Big cheers for Liz Kalloch who co-authored (with Mary Anne Radmacher) and illustrated SHE!  I'm thrilled to point you towards this treasure that is sure to remind what is so easily forgotten- HOW AMAZING YOU ARE... AND HOW FABULOUS IT IS TO BE A WOMAN! SHE offers inspiration and wisdom through care-fully crafted love letters and insightful quotes married to gorgeous images. Every page feels like a personal gift for you and every friend, sister, mother and daughter you know. I can't think of a book that has prompted me so swiftly to get copies for every woman I love.  
Here is how Liz describes it:
She is a book of qualities illustrating the greatness of all women. From "everywoman" to role models such as Hillary Clinton and Madeline Albright to visionary artist Shiloh McCloud and poet Maya Stein, these many women represent the very best in the human spirit. 

Mary Anne Radmacher and I gathered a short list of 25 qualities we see in women, that we found to be the most compelling, along with advice and sustenance for a life's journey. We cover topics of leadership, friendship, purpose, adventurousness, cooperation, collaboration, risk-taking, resourcefulness, happiness, compassion, what it is to inspire and much more.

Each page spread features a collection of vintage art and ephemera elegantly designed by me paired with a love letter by Mary Anne Radmacher to each quality along with a tribute to women's strength, character, and the extraordinary capabilities within each and every woman. SHE gathers the wisdom of many wise women including Madeleine L'Engle, Laura Schlessinger, Erica Jong, Rachel Carson, Oprah Winfrey, Christine Mason Miller, Harper Lee, Lucille Ball, Mother Teresa, Pearl Buck, Cheri Huber, Julia Child, Drew Barrymore, and many more.

Although it is available on Amazon, Liz and Mary Ann are embarking on a west coast book tour, and when you purchase books or cards from Liz's Etsy SHE shop it will go directly to funding their trip. So, I am pointing you directly there. THE SHE SHOP.

GIVEAWAY TIME!

They are also offering a copy for one you. Please leave a comment below before Thursday, March 6th, to enter- and remember to leave your email if it's not linked. I will announce a randomly selected winner on Friday.

If (and only if) you feel like sharing,  I'd enjoy hearing what quality of greatness you'd love to wear more freely each day... whatever comes to mind. I know you don't have the book yet! Ha!

creativebug giveaway!

Can you believe the end of the year is upon us?! 2013 was a year of acceptance and transformation for me. My anchor has been maya*made. It was the tool that kept me grounded in creativity and optimism. You all were some of the best inspiration! To thank you for your love and support, I am teaming up with my favorite folks at Creativebug to offer a special giveaway:

How would you like to win two FREE 3-month subscriptions to CreativeBug?! One for you... and one to gift your best friend, or sister, or mom!

How fun is that?! What a great present and fabulous way to begin the new year- making stuff and learning new skills with the most amazing video workshops available (if I do say so myself). There are so many to choose from... and let's not forget that you could be making burlap stockings or upcycled pouches with me!

How do you enter? From now until Tuesday, 12/17 at midnight:

1. Leave a comment here about some new crafty skill you'd like to learn in the new year.
2. For another entry into the drawing hop over to Creativebug and check out the classes offered- come on back here and share which one you can't wait to take.
3. Want your name thrown in the hat once more? Go follow mayamade on instagram and comment on any pic with the hashtag- #mayamadecreativebuggiveaway

I'll announce a random winner on Wednesday, December 18th... just in time for last minute gift making and giving! Good luck and thank you!

Made By Hand:: Review & Giveaway

Happy Monday. It's fine day to make something... and I'm thrilled to share a brand new book that just hit the shelves: Made By Hand by Lena Corwin. 

 Printing by Hand, Lena Corwin's first book, was a huge inspiration for me when I began working with ink and textile paints. You can imagine how excited I was to hear she was writing a second book. Made By Hand celebrates the many crafts that Lena is currently interested in... from sewing, weaving, and knitting to printing, dyeing and so much more! Most artists and crafters (that means YOU!) seem to have an appetite for learning new skills... this book is a fabulous collection of just that.  It's filled with a lovely line-up of artists and workshop leaders sharing the how- to's for some of their favorite projects. I even spied some dear friends... like Cal and Liane! The diversity of offerings within theses pages makes you feel like you're at a retreat with too many good things to choose from... except you get to make them all! The photography is clean and simple. Gorgeous- really. The instructions are clear with a step by step approach using photos to illustrate the process. This is a good one, folks... and Lena- you've done it again!

 We are moving into crunch time to begin making gifts for the holidays... and now I have a bunch of fresh ideas!

I always love seeing the behind the scenes photos and there is a great gallery right here. And here's the trailer...

 

Made By Hand's publisher, STC Craft, is generously offering a free copy to one of you, my super creative readers. Please leave a comment before Thursday 10/24 at 5pm. A random winner will be selected and announced on Friday. I'd love to hear what new project your hands are itching to make!

5th Blogiversary Bucket Giveaway!

Over the weekend maya*made turned 5 years old! Sometimes it's hard to remember what life was like before I was documenting it in this fashion... and other days it feels like this digital diary just began. From the very beginning, I've been delighted by my connections to all of you. The conversations and friendships that have grown from this space continue to amaze me. I am forever grateful, and always humbled, that you choose to spend some of your valuable time visiting with me. My way of giving thanks each year has become a bit of tradition...

I am offering a large linen bucket to one of you. I'd love to make each of you one, but then there wouldn't be anytime left over for other creations!

The winner of this "blogiversary bucket" will have the option of customizing it with any of my stamps or stenciled with a word of choice.

Since I continue to have spring cleaning on the brain, I might use it to gather up current clutter... perhaps with a "let it go" printed on the front. Just saying...

Please leave your name and info in the comment section of this post before Thursday March 28th at 5pm EST. Feel free to share how you'd customize yours.  I'll announce the randomly selected winner on Friday, the 29th.  Buckets and buckets of thanks to each of you and good luck!

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a winning monday!

 I can't believe that by week's end we will be entering March! For those of us in the Northeast, that's some pretty exciting movement towards spring.

Little announcements:
1. Babble selected maya*made as one of the top 50 craft blogs (for the third year in a row). Yay!

2. My local Sustainable Tompkins chose Reinvention for one of its annual  "Signs of Sustainability" awards. Love where I live!

3. And don't you want to know who to congratulate for winning the Mikodesign diy Frida doll kit?

EviFebruary 20, 2013 at 4:41 PM

Oh yes please, she is just divine!! Thanks so much for the chance to win her! She will love Australia......!

 Evi- I'm sending your mailing info to Erika this morning!

Such a nice and hopeful way to end this month.

I was recently surprised with a complimentary/review copy of  Creative Lettering by my friend Jenny Doh. Thanks Jenny! The timing couldn't have been better, as I've been wanting to bring more hand lettering into my work and had just bought The Little Book of Lettering for inspiration. They are a perfect pair together.

The latter is pure eye candy, while Jenny's book offers lots of comprehensive techniques and projects from multiple artists who incorporate letters into everything they do. I've always been satisfied with my printing and cursive- but never felt that my "artistic lettering" was as up to snuff as I'd like it to be. I'm putting an end to that! Experimenting with and fine tuning our creative passions is so accessible now. Between the plethora of wonderful how-to books and the web, there's really nothing we can't teach ourselves. And what about you? Anything new you've been itching to try? It's a fresh new week and anything is possible...

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frida diy kit: a giveaway!

 I'm always excited to hear from my friend Erika, of Mikodesign. She knows just how much I love her distinct style and the way she infuses her daughters' lives with outrageous creativity. You might remember all of the fun we had with her Parisian doll kit a few years ago, blogged here. When she recently asked if we wanted to try our hand at her Frida doll kit, I was thrilled. I know from experience, that every Mikodesign kit is beautifully packaged, thoughtfully crafted and super easy to put together. What a perfect project to share with my little girl.

The big bonus was how organically it lent itself to a lesson in Mexican art history and culture. I've been a Frida Kahlo fan since I was in high school and have been lucky enough to visit her home (now a museum) in Coyoacán. What a fascinating conversation my daughter and I had as we looked at images of Frida and her art! And now she has another handmade doll to add to her collection- one who brings to life an inspiring and powerful woman. Thank you Erika! 

 Mikodesign originates from Holland, so along with all of the very traditional Mexican details (like a rebozo!), this Frida has a little taste of the Nederlands that I love.

There are a few fun little accessories that come with the kit that we haven't even gotten to, yet. Here's the complete list of the set:

 a piece of fabric to make your own Frida doll, skirt, scarf, big Frida heart, two birds, 1 big Frida Medaillion and one small Frida medailion and two birds.

 In addition, Erika has come up with some wonderful additional kits, like this craft panel in the background, which has everything from a needle case to a lovely banner.

 So, I know that you're excited to make your own Frida doll! Stitch one for yourself (she's fit for a grown up, no doubt!) or for a little person in your life!

Erika is generously offering a Frida diy doll kit to one of you and will ship anywhere. Please leave your name and contact info in this post between now and Sunday at 5pm EST. A randomly selected winner will be announced on Monday morning. Buena suerte (good luck)!

show me a story: review and giveaway!

I've been so excited to tell you about this brand new book:  show me a STORY- 40 Craft Projects and Activities to Spark Children's Storytelling!  I first met the author, Emily Neuberger, online as a fellow crafter, and then was lucky enough to have her and her lovely mother in one of my Squam workshops. We've kept in touch over the years and shared our book writing adventures during late night emails. Yesterday began her book blog tour, and today it stops here for a peek inside and a giveaway below. Emily has created an AMAZING resource for parents, homeschoolers and educators.

Storytelling is an intrinsic part of child development and a wonderful way to encourage creativity and imagination, while building communication skills. The projects Emily has designed are simple, yet totally enticing... it arrived in the midst of my daughter having a playdate and both girls devoured it cover to cover. It not only got their stamp of approval, but my mother was still in town and was wowed by it, as well. She has been an early childhood educator and reading/language specialist for decades and has incredibly high standards... so that's saying a lot, folks!  We both loved this story wheel, which I'm keeping in the car to enhance any road trip or carpool commute.

 In fact, many of the story games and prompts are very portable, which make them perfect for incorporating into the little windows of time that our current culture seems to be be determined to fill up with plugged in technology.

I'm so thrilled to have a slew of new ideas for the coming cold, when we're looking for cozy activities around the fire... but tons of the projects incorporate outside time, too. Thank you, Emily!

And there are even wonderful group activities for engaging more than one or two children... parties, classrooms, homeschooling gatherings will be benefit from so many of these tools which foster play and working together! I'm gushing, I know...  but it's a good one. In fact, I was going to donate my copy to my daughter's little Montessori school, but I've ordered them a copy... so I can keep my own!

Are you ready to have a chance to win a free copy for your own home or classroom? Storey Publishing has a book with one of your names on it! Just leave a comment below before Thursday, the 27th, at 8pm EST. I'll announce the randomly selected winner on Friday. The publisher has requested this to be open to US residents only, please.  Here's a look at the rest of the tour calendar... follow along for more giveaways and inside peeks! Good luck, friends! Congratulations again, Emily... what a fabulous book you've created!
Week One 

9.24 Catherine Newman
9.25 maya*made
9.26 Crafty Crow
9.27 Average Jane Crafter
9.28 Zaa Berry

Week Two
10.1 Zakka Life
10.2 Small Measure
10.3 scrumdilly-do
10.4 One Golden Apple
10.5 Jane of All Trades

Week Three
10.8 Mommy Coddle
10.9 Whip Up
10.10 Wise Craft
10.11 Bird and Little Bird

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Hand in Hand - a giveaway!

After being reminded of my blogiversary last Friday (thank you, thank you for your sweet words!), my first thought was to pick you some flowers... my second was to have a giveaway. How perfect  then to discover a box of books on my doorstep on Saturday morning. You can guess where this is going...

Lark Crafts sent me several copies of their newly published book: Hand in Hand- Crafting with Kids by Jenny Doh. 20 mothers (who also blog) share how they encourage and inspire creativity in their homes. I'm so pleased that I was asked to be a part of such a special book. My pages even include my mother (baking cookies at the barn) because she continues to be my mentor for inspired parenting.



Each contributor designed a unique child-centered project just for Hand in Hand. Mine is the Little Book of Big Questions that you can read about above. I believe it's a wonderful tool to foster loving open communication with your children and teach them how important their many questions truly are. It ties together the heart, head and hands in a very tangible way.

The list of  talented and inspiring women that worked on this book is quite tremendous, and I'm so proud to stand in their company. The other participating mothers are: Amanda Soule, Ali Edwards, Pam Garrison, Nicole Spring, Abby Glassenberg, Dana Willard, Samantha Cotterill, Cindy Hopper, Jessica Okui, Carly Schwerdt, Jackie Boucher,Merrilee Liddiard, Jhoanna Monte Aranez, Jean Van't Hul,
Kristin Zecchinelli, Ella Pedersen,Jenny Doh, Beki Lambert, and Rachel Faucett.


I'm also quite excited to try out some new projects for spring crafting. Ella's felted flower bowls caught my eye instantly. LOVE.

My friend Kristin's tissue paper lanterns are an old favorite I'd love to revisit for a spring centerpiece.

Carly's hand painted paper lampshades might be the perfect way to begin the revamp of my daughter's bedroom.

All in all, so many gorgeous photos, wise words, and lovely ideas. I'm certain you'd enjoy a copy!
I have not one, but TWO books to offer! Please leave a comment here before Thursday 3/29 at 5pm EST to have a chance at winning your own copy of Hand in Hand.. I'll announce the randomly selected winners on Friday. Have a super start to your week, my friends! comments are now closed.

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Big thank you to all who entered! And the winners are:

Elizabeth said...

Looks like a fabulous book. and how wonderful it would be to win. Thanks for the chance.  Jessie Thetford said... I love this! What an awesome resource for inspired parenting!   

Congratulations you two! Please email me mayaluna(at)yahoo(dot) com with your mailing address so I can send you your new book.  

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