tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11515774555200864242012-02-16T03:17:31.413-05:00Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.comBlogger781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-30732143875340788382011-08-29T12:50:00.000-04:002011-08-29T12:50:13.374-04:00

Hiya Internet! I have had the good fortune and pleasure of being interviewed by Danielle from scribe & maker and the post is up today! Please check out the interview here. I will be back to posting regularly soon... promise!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-54488941991223051842011-06-14T17:15:00.000-04:002011-06-14T17:15:54.598-04:00

There are many lessons that I have learned in my life.  One of them is not to bother calling the hotel you just checked out of from the airport asking for the Prada sunglasses you left in your room.  Your Prada sunglasses are gone.  Get over it and move on. But this blog post has nothing to do with life lessons or Prada sunglasses. I've been painting outdoors recently.  Outdoors in the bright

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-25416209443099570962011-05-31T16:45:00.000-04:002011-05-31T16:45:05.577-04:00

This DIY project is so easy and it looks wonderful!  Total cost was $5 for the vintage frame.  I had all the other supplies here in my house. I encourage you to try it out... now, I'll let the pictures tell the story:

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-58101250932885743632011-05-18T13:53:00.000-04:002011-05-18T13:53:18.844-04:00

I got all sorts of crafty today, mostly because I was overloaded with inspiration from some of the beautiful projects and things I've seen on Pinterest.   My project today was making 2 terrariums with a couple of glass containers I used for my wedding's dessert table.   I had a variety of things I could have done with those containers: filled them with limes, lemons, or oranges, turned them

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-29578418947020905632011-05-16T18:59:00.001-04:002011-05-18T14:27:23.745-04:00

Over this past weekend, it occurred to me that the boys need some new wall art for their bedroom and playrooms.  I've seen that they get so creative when they make their Lego bases, that I wanted to capture that as a keepsake of their amazing and unafraid creativity. So, this weekend, the boys and I did this awesome project where they designed their Lego bases or scenes with their Star Wars

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-6636237269225514662011-05-09T08:09:00.000-04:002011-05-09T08:09:55.706-04:00

I love Ferndale, MI.  With it's indie and eclectic collection of shops, bakeries, grocery stores, and cafes, there's always something going on.  This past weekend was no exception.  The Rust Belt Market opened its doors for the first time, and I could not miss it!  Located in what used to be an oversized Old Navy store in the corner of Woodward and 9 Mile, the Rust Belt's Market just officially

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-81668229174426136782011-05-02T19:59:00.000-04:002011-05-02T19:59:35.999-04:00

Today, I'm super excited to have posted a new print at the shop!  It's simply titled Detroit Water Tower and it is an 8.5 x 11 inch archival digital print with some bright colors you may remember from the Swell Papel all-time favorite, and most popular print, Mountain Range No. 1. Here it is! Detroit Water Tower Print This print was inspired by a picture I took when the husband and I went to the

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-1366689298553998252011-04-11T20:47:00.000-04:002011-04-11T20:47:35.552-04:00

It was a really snowy day, our wedding day.  Our wedding venue, Circa 1843, was decked out and glowing from the inside.  We had a small wedding- less than 40 people.  All of them braved the snow storm to join us on our special day. Handmade Wedding Wreath The ensemble did a great job and added an extra special touch Custom papel picado hung over the ceremony area Our desert table -

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-47256690882133355152011-03-09T11:48:00.001-05:002011-03-09T11:52:21.992-05:00

Welcome back everybody! I'm getting started to re-open Swell Papel on Monday morning... crossing my fingers.  I'm so excited!  I'll be posting about the wedding soon.  I just have to say this: IT WAS AMAZING!  Small, intimate, rustic, and delicious to the eyes!  The ceremony was sweet and touching, with some of our family and friends surrounding us with their love and their warmth, a handsome

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-31720925892439741992011-01-24T08:56:00.000-05:002011-01-24T08:56:07.940-05:00

I can almost smell the thick-textured salty air.  The frilly beverages served inside a pineapple or a coconut are almost within reach, along with little cocktail umbrellas that I'll surely stick in my hair.  CAW! CAW! CAW! What's that? Why, it's the sound of seagulls in the not so far away future! In less than two weeks I'll become a Mrs! And The Fiance (formerly The Boyfriend, soon to be

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-64074905805199184802011-01-06T10:43:00.001-05:002011-01-06T10:43:57.322-05:00

I had an early start today because it's the day I picked up my marriage license!  It's less than a month to go until The Fiance and I are joined together in marital bliss and we whisk ourselves off to a sunny and beachy all-inclusive resort somewhere in NotMichigan...   Well, I got the whole marriage license thing taken care of at about 8:15am and I thought to myself, "What bridal errand can I

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-67724941577367149302010-12-16T08:55:00.002-05:002010-12-16T09:03:23.996-05:00

It's a sprint within a marathon. ...Planning a wedding so close to the holidays. I've been simultaneously working on wedding preparations, holiday travel plans, buying and wrapping mountains of Christmas presents, and um... what was that other thing I do?  Oh yeah!  My full-time "real" job as "Catch-All Manager".  That's what I call myself, anyway, because whatever other people's job

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-59116230015575160782010-11-29T09:28:00.000-05:002010-11-29T09:28:25.310-05:00

Happy Late Thanksgiving!  I guess the right way of saying that now that Thanksgiving has passed is "Happy Thanksgiven".  Har har haaaarrrr! The Fiance, The Boys, and I put up some Christmas decorations up yesterday.  We had a fire going in the fireplace, new ornaments, handmade Christmas stockings, and Christmas tunes courtesy of Pandora.  I am so grateful to have times like that with my future

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-71204451365229867972010-11-15T08:27:00.005-05:002010-11-29T20:48:17.751-05:00

We finally have a date for the wedding, it's less than 3 months away!  It's going to be really really cold here in Michigan where we'll get married, but there will be lots of love to warm us up. I'm in all-out bride mode... it's absolutely awesome!  We're going with a rustic/DIY theme and found the PERFECT location EVER.  I use all caps because it's THAT GOOD!  It combines my secret love for

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-16264305319826409122010-11-08T10:04:00.000-05:002010-11-08T10:04:52.684-05:00

A new print is available at the shop! This print was created because of my love for all things geometric.  I based the image on a photograph that I took while I was a stop light next to these metal giants.   Forget the windmills! I think Don Quixote would be battling the heck with these guys if he saw them!  Powerline Tower Print $18 USD by Swell Papel

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-75880735064438921032010-11-08T08:51:00.000-05:002010-11-08T08:51:21.523-05:00

I went back to visit friends and family in my hometown in Mexico last week.  There was tons of fun to be had between visiting my friends, and having good quality time with my folks too.  The summery weather was a nice change from Michigan's crisp cool.  I arrived wearing my Uggs and a heavy sweater (hot!) and ended up wearing open-toed shoes and summer dresses.  Ahh! So nice! I love the city,

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-6975959968491794302010-11-01T10:00:00.002-04:002010-11-01T10:00:11.545-04:00

The Fiance and I took the boys on Saturday to this wonderful street which they completely deck out for Halloween.  We had such a great time and the boys loved it!  Here are some of our favorite house decorations:

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-19944990759907574972010-10-27T09:10:00.000-04:002010-10-27T09:10:22.511-04:00

I've neglected the blog a little bit, haven't I?  I do have a good excuse, though.   Over last weekend, The Boyfriend and I got engaged!  We are so unbelievably happy and blessed!   Anyway, between then and now, I've slowly metamorphosized (is that even a word?) into "bride-to-be".  And in the whole happy process, I've managed to accidentally teach the word "Bridezilla" to The Fiance (formerly

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-85755347985600403972010-10-21T10:08:00.000-04:002010-10-21T10:08:28.602-04:00

I just opened a new section at the shop for photographs!  I have two listings, each for two 5" x 7" photographs. Fig Photo Set $18 USD Lighthouse Photo Set $18 USD Check out the new section here!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-46927533856756701332010-10-20T14:16:00.000-04:002010-10-20T14:16:24.075-04:00

Woah! Swell Papel was featured on the front page of Etsy earlier this morning!  Excuse me while I bounce from the excitement. There. Ahem!  Well, here is a screenshot: And it's all thanks to Becca, from bake!  Please visit her shop here, and her treasury aptly named "It might be grey outside but not here..." here. Thanks Becca!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-7875078713436171032010-10-20T09:44:00.000-04:002010-10-20T09:44:26.578-04:00

Little Boxes No. 1  /  Little Boxes No. 2 A couple of little prints named after one of my favorite songs "Little Boxes" are now available at my Swell Papel Shop.  For these prints, I decided to go to a different format to make a bigger statement.  I use 13" x 19" paper and image size is about 11" x 14", so that it can be framed in a standard sized frame OR in a 13" x 19"(not-so-standard) frame

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-46004640762252807182010-10-19T14:54:00.000-04:002010-10-19T14:54:11.787-04:00

I feel like it's been a long time since I've posted.  Luckily, I've been very productive and have managed to post a new print on the shop!  It's called "Ahoy!" and I had a ton of fun making it. Here are some of my inspiration pictures:             And in honor of this print, here is a clip from one of my favorite all-time movies, What About Bob? starring Bill Murray (genius, as far as I'm

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-64243546252902673292010-10-14T13:58:00.002-04:002010-10-14T13:58:43.957-04:00

I really want a sewing machine. There are many affordable models available everywhere and I would really love to pick one up and attempt to make a quilt.  Problem is, I don't have any room in my apartment to store a sewing machine.  As it is, my camera and laptop bags have found a sad little spot in a corner of my dining room, out there, in the open.  And my monster printer lives atop my

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-73195540567032550112010-10-14T00:01:00.002-04:002010-10-14T00:13:46.459-04:00

Have you heard the good news?  I have a new article up on Tall Dark Roast!   The newest one features a slew of Etsy artists who have captured my eye with their striking yellow goodies. Click here to check it out! Don't forget to leave a comment and to follow Tall Dark Roast and Swell Papel on Twitter!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-82600130299545672932010-10-13T11:17:00.001-04:002010-10-13T11:33:40.096-04:00

Last night was my first yoga class over at a local yoga studio.  My only experience with yoga was a few classes at a noisy gym but I got a great offer via Groupon that I just couldn't miss: 5 lessons for $25!  I had been curious about yoga since I've been reading The Art of Happiness and I thought yoga would help me "connect" some of the things I've read in the book with real practice.  And it

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-71155354563878489812010-10-12T11:52:00.000-04:002010-10-12T11:52:22.318-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More jewelry

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-56501842625978257132010-10-12T11:22:00.000-04:002010-10-12T11:22:21.445-04:00

Swell Papel prints have been chosen to appear on a number of Treasuries on Etsy.  Here are a few of my favorites: Speed of Light by b u d Lovely Roots by MaaP Studio you know I love geometry by nomilk today Imagine a Map by Big Brown House Less than 10Autumn GeometricsRedecorate the home in warm seasonal colorsNew Shops! Vol 4Take a Look at TheseNational Honey Month Being part of the

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-13535207403529399892010-10-12T10:33:00.000-04:002010-10-12T10:33:02.695-04:00

Maybe I'm late to the whole Vampire Weekend thing, I'm not sure, but I am loving their music on this beautiful sunny morning.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-19562195320111366482010-10-11T11:16:00.001-04:002010-10-11T11:17:50.839-04:00

Swell Papel's Mountain Range No. 1 Print is featured today on Tider Designs' Etsy Favorites blog!   Please check out Diane's beautiful metal, resin, and enamel jewelry in her Tider Jewelry Design shop on Etsy.  Her MidCentury Chair Necklaces are to die for!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-12724486604690365642010-10-11T09:42:00.004-04:002010-10-13T11:32:19.058-04:00

Because the foliage is at it's prime right now, the boyfriend and I decided to take a little drive this past weekend and we ended up in the beautiful towns of South Haven and Saugatuck, MI.  It was amazing... but I will let the pictures do the talking. The South Haven Lighthouse The Boyfriend and I Early Morning Sunlight Folks on an early morning sail.  Repetition Fall foliage in

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-9361428314473883952010-10-07T08:01:00.001-04:002010-10-07T08:02:48.680-04:00

I had a really great dream last night.   In it, I met with the Dalai Lama and his entourage (it was a dream, the Dalai Lama had an entourage the size of J-Lo's back in the "Jenny from the Block" days).  I was offered the opportunity to be taken under his wing and spend a few days in his "complex" (which in my dream was a beautiful hacienda in the mountains).  During those days, the Dalai Lama

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-60213626685987189262010-10-05T14:27:00.000-04:002010-10-05T14:27:35.741-04:00

Wow! I started this week hoping I would be able to produce another shop-worthy print by Friday and I think I did it! This is Ovo, and it's available in the shop! Ovo -  by Swell Papel $18 USD

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-41224095378837293592010-10-05T09:37:00.000-04:002010-10-05T09:37:06.581-04:00

Oh! I have a new color story up on Tall Dark Roast!  It's called "Green Going" and features some of my favorite green* finds. Check out our friend, Tall Dark Roast.   *"Green" as in the color green AND eco-friendly! Check out past Swell Papel articles on TDR here and here

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-6250025452566285422010-10-05T09:25:00.000-04:002010-10-05T09:25:48.035-04:00

Ah! It feels so good to get Monday out of the way.  Even though Tuesday lives right next to Monday, I find Tuesdays somewhat comforting, like a nice place to hang out after going through the shock of being ripped out of the weekend and thrown in the murky waters of Mondays. My allergies have been insane lately.  Saturday was especially hard for me.  I tried everything from over the counter

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-12332039117697370742010-10-01T08:30:00.002-04:002010-10-01T08:30:01.570-04:00

Yesterday I received my first shipment of organic (and locally when available) produce from a company called Door to Door Organics.  I found them via Groupon, which I subscribe to. Little did I know that this "small" box of produce would contain a "veritable cornucopia of wholesome sustenance", as The Boyfriend put it.  By the way, I just called the shipment a "wonderful bounty" but The

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-24415718094015088852010-09-30T11:30:00.000-04:002010-09-30T11:30:32.779-04:00

One of my favorite things to do on a plane is take pictures through the window.  There's something really peaceful and abstract about images taken of the earth down below. Here are some of my favorites: Inspired by some of these images, I created In the Mountains, a new print available in the shop!   In the Mountains - 8.5 x 11 Print - $18 USD

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-17969287678997305222010-09-29T10:35:00.000-04:002010-09-29T10:35:26.138-04:00

I made a wonderful soup last night and I wanted to share it online. I'm not very good at writing recipes down-  Mostly I just chop things up and put them together without a notion of how many cups of this or how many tablespoons of that I used.   Make on a cool or rainy day for best results! Ingredients:OnionCeleryCarrotNapa CabbageBok ChoyShitake MushroomsGreen OnionsExtra Firm Tofu (cubed)

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-40605861225204209772010-09-27T11:53:00.000-04:002010-09-27T11:53:40.327-04:00

Wow! I just had the most dreamy weekend and I can't believe it's over.  With my parents visiting, I decided to take them out and about to places they've never been to and we had a blast.  Between vegan, organic meals at The Inn Season Cafe, a trip to Detroit's Historical Eastern Market, lunch at Slows BarBQ, sight-seeing in the city, and lots of warm apple cider, I will have to call this weekend

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-45220220750510152422010-09-23T15:06:00.003-04:002010-09-23T15:12:27.274-04:00

Hey there! I just wanted to write a quick note to let ya'll know that I will be out of the "blog-ffice" until Monday since The Parentals are coming.   OMG... The Parentals are coming! They should be here any minute now!  I haven't seen them since August (which is a long time for my little family of 3), so I'm hoping to take advantage of every minute of them being here. Hurray! And they

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-21703022117236806872010-09-22T11:19:00.000-04:002010-09-22T11:19:41.332-04:00

Just got some exciting news from my friend Adrian about Tall Dark Roast's sister site, Perfectionado. This is where the latest in high fashion, couture, design, and all things beautiful reside. I just visited the site today and it is filled with yummy eye-candy!  Perfectionado's impeccable taste makes my heart skip and I just had to share the good news!Click here to indulge.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-71136035526395945382010-09-22T08:55:00.001-04:002010-09-22T08:56:05.948-04:00

I just know that it's going to be a great day, despite the gloomy Michigan weather we're having today.  It started off with a quick early morning workout, my Starbucks coffee, and the delivery of my Jen Collins "No Place Like Home" print from hellojenuine.   Receiving this print was an amazing experience. Keep in mind that I only paid for the one print, yet I got 3!  From the printed envelope

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-65151335139079960222010-09-20T17:39:00.001-04:002010-09-21T13:24:01.549-04:00

Aaaaahhhh.... That's not a scream, but a relaxing "aaahhh".  Which is the perfect way to summarize last weekend.  The Boyfriend and I took his boys "up north" to a cabin one of his coworkers graciously offered us.  It was wonderful to get some relaxation in a wonderfully fall-y setting, and with 2 delicious little boys (ages 4 and 7) who have made me remember how to make believe again.   While

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-73050503271078169692010-09-16T11:49:00.000-04:002010-09-16T11:49:20.683-04:00

Today's the last day for-- Come visit the shop.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-38737647476727853612010-09-16T11:34:00.000-04:002010-09-16T11:34:14.323-04:00

For ages now, manicures and pedicures have been the epitome of a woman's (and some men) ideal way of getting pampered.  For me, a mani/pedi is the best thing to do when I want to look pretty(er), after a stressful day, to compensate for a bad hair day, or when I want to add a little color to my day.  While I enjoy going to a professional to have my nails done, I also very much enjoy doing it at

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-66292341392060923672010-09-14T15:17:00.001-04:002010-09-14T15:20:47.110-04:00

In the past some people have tried to get me to play Eucre- a popular card game here around Michigan in which the objective is ________ and the players try to accomplish it by _________ and __________. I'm leaving those blanks because the 3 times that I've "played" it, I have had NO IDEA what the other people are doing.  And I shouldn't really be saying that I "played" Eucre. It was more like

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-82847956302905174472010-09-14T09:56:00.002-04:002010-09-14T10:11:32.597-04:00

Psst- To become Swell Papel's friend on Facebook.  Click the "Like" button under the Swell Papel banner or click the Facebook badge on the right hand side of the page. ;)

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-51387688260982384272010-09-13T12:09:00.000-04:002010-09-13T12:09:23.413-04:00

One of my favorite things to do before I go to bed is watch nature documentaries.  I've watched so many that I think I deserve a masters degree in Nature Documentary Watching.  Doing this, has not only opened my eyes to the amazing places found around the world, but also, the irrevocable damage that human beings have done to some of those places.  I get genuinely sad about the polar bears not

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-2202619721503193532010-09-13T08:32:00.001-04:002010-09-13T08:35:01.262-04:00

Happy Monday! Can't believe the weekend came and went so quickly! In a flash it's over and it's back-to-work day again... Sadly. This Saturday, The Boyfriend and I went on a little trip to downtown Detroit to go to the Dally in the Alley, a street fair in Detroit held in... well, the alley!  There was music, fun, artists, freaks, and tons of fun to be had.  There were 4 music stages set

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-22068379388845765222010-09-10T10:27:00.002-04:002010-09-10T10:29:26.026-04:00

It's been a super productive day today!  I had a great workout on the treadmill (THANKS, 5-Hour Energy!), went on a coffee run to Starbucks, rearranged the furniture in my living/dining room, sent out a couple of reports and work emails, and took pictures of my prints to update some of my Etsy listings, etc. All this before 10 AM! I'm happy to say that I now have a somewhat normal dining

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-56911623340365986052010-09-08T19:52:00.000-04:002010-09-08T19:52:22.697-04:00

I am a prisoner of the internet. I'm going to get out and do some stuff out in the "real world". Yeah! But if I go out of my apartment tonight I know that I'll end up at Starbucks... or Target.  OR that other Target with a Starbucks in it... I already went to the gym in the morning (yay, me!), so that's out of the question. And I already ran all my errands... I need to stop multitasking the

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-3920769031363173102010-09-08T15:45:00.000-04:002010-09-08T15:45:42.193-04:00

I cannot believe how incredibly lucky I've been since venturing out on this Swell Papel endeavor.  That idea that was born from me just wanting to make prints has gotten me not only to having my own shop and blog, but also, as of today, the amazing opportunity to be a contributor to Tall Dark Roast! TDR not only "discovered" me, but has also been very supportive throughout this whole process.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-68030899509133922382010-09-08T14:35:00.000-04:002010-09-08T14:35:11.274-04:00

Today I'm super excited to announce that my prints are now available through the newly opened Indie Fixx Fall Galleria! "Indie Fixx Galleria is an online showcase of handmade, indie-made & vintage goods. Think of it as an 'indie mall' featuring a juried mix of designers & boutiques to provide a curated shopping experience." Please click here to visit the Swell Papel - Indie Fixx Galleria or

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-24568123821982282902010-09-07T16:43:00.003-04:002010-09-14T15:59:53.567-04:00

I'm so happy to show you my new work available at the shop!   I made this print by spending about 2 hours hand drawing each little stone on paper.  I can still feel the dent on my finger that the pencil left!  It was a good exercise in patience and after a while, I found it very peaceful to be drawing... almost like a rhythmic meditation of sorts. Granted, I kinda went blind, got carpel

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-38842460166378888352010-09-07T08:56:00.001-04:002010-09-07T15:10:34.907-04:00

Last Saturday was the first real autumn day that we've had here in Michigan.  It's like autumn can't wait to bust out in all its glory.  Here, autumn comes with hot apple cider, warm cinnamon donuts, beautiful foliage, cozy sweaters and cool breezes on sunny days.  I LOVE! The Boyfriend and I went grape picking at a nearby farm.  It was amazing!  They had so many different varieties of sweet

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-56683760064143628352010-09-03T14:54:00.001-04:002010-09-03T15:59:06.484-04:00

This week I've been thinking about my friends, and my family a lot.  I think I'm a little nostalgic and wishing I could visit them all since most of them are so far away.  They have been so supportive and amazing to me and Swell Papel and I wish I could visit each and every one of them and give them a huge hug. By the way, did you know that I have the most loving family EVER? The best aunts,

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-14697909700923711482010-09-02T23:28:00.001-04:002010-09-02T23:33:51.909-04:00

I started my day off with a quick trip to the gym (lame workout, but I am still glad I went), a coffee run to my nearest Starbucks, and then a stop at ye ole grocery store.  I haven't done groceries in a long time! I've been surviving on bread, tuna, a gigantic zucchini bought at a farm stand near The Boyfriend's house last week, and coffee for a while now (bad idea).   Anyway, I saw this

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-4651739893843293672010-09-02T09:33:00.000-04:002010-09-02T09:33:02.299-04:00

A house is not a home without a heart.  Living so far away from my family and most of my friends, I strive to do my best to make my tiny one-bedroom apartment as homey as possible.  I clean it, I organize it, I make sure it is as warm and inviting as my parents' home is when I go visit them. I put all my heart into it and I love it! It's important for me to feel like where I am is home. I like

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-35823307842871266842010-09-01T12:31:00.001-04:002010-09-01T12:31:18.770-04:00

Dreamy, creamy new print available in my shop!! I am looking at this print right in front of me and I can't stop smiling.  Does it make YOU smile too?

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-44875339026898645392010-09-01T12:26:00.000-04:002010-09-01T12:26:35.327-04:00

Things have been a little busy here at Swell Papel "headquarters" (lol).  I was working on a print yesterday when BAM! My computer chooses to shut down and I lost the work I had done. Banging head against the wall.  Why?! Anyway, upon The Boyfriend's wise advice, I set up a Twitter account (@swellpapel) last night to help me network with people who have similar interests as I do.  I'm really new

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-50540259000557582122010-08-31T11:04:00.000-04:002010-08-31T11:04:22.502-04:00

This morning began by shooting off a couple of emails to hopefully help promote my work and get organized.  First off, my school's alumni newsletter.  They are always looking to see what kind of mischief us alumni are getting into, so I said, "why not?" and told them the story of Swell Papel.  Secondly, I placed a couple of calls to local accountants to see if I could get an appointment and see

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-16306847056937272442010-08-30T17:58:00.000-04:002010-08-30T17:58:36.012-04:00

You know how it feels when you are happy and in love? And how loving someone sometimes feels like you are giving pieces of your heart away but it's OK because you are getting someone else's heart pieces in return? I hope you do! Here's a new little print inspired by such sentiment.  Of course, it is available at the shop. :)

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-15280318206104805792010-08-30T07:51:00.001-04:002010-08-30T07:53:15.889-04:00

[Before you read on, you must know that I am unreasonably scared of little green men (aliens). I don't like them in movies, I don't like them in pictures, and I probably wouldn't like them in real life. Please continue reading. Thank you.] ------------------- Finally!  Makeover week has come to an end over at The Boyfriend's house! Even though there are still many little details to figure out, we

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-53312576756093504132010-08-29T12:16:00.000-04:002010-08-29T12:16:09.091-04:00

While taking a drive around the countryside this weekend, we came across an orchard and these wonderful little apiary which just blew me away!  Inside of those boxes live thousands of bees which help pollinate the orchard and produce fruit for the farmers.  I love bees. I was inspired by all of this and I was actually able to transform that inspiration into a couple of new prints which I just

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-39646670375131371502010-08-29T07:57:00.000-04:002010-08-29T07:57:07.964-04:00

With the shop opening last Friday, and having received my first orders (with an "s" - meaning more than one!), I have spent a good amount of time working this weekend- which I think is fantastic!  I have received very positive feedback about the Swell Papel shop but even then, I don't think it has fully sinked in that I'm "in business".  Wow! This morning, I am lucky enough to be featured in

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-40329498618799350112010-08-27T13:00:00.002-04:002010-08-27T14:03:56.241-04:00

I am extremely pleased to finally unveil my new shop at Etsy!   You can visit my site and/or make a purchase by doing any of the following: Clicking HERE will take you to my Etsy shop.   Or go to http://www.etsy.com/shop/SwellPapel Or by clicking on the handy-dandy gadget on the right hand side of the blog to go directly to each of the prints. Cheers!

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-46392400653920773492010-08-26T14:52:00.001-04:002010-08-26T14:52:59.944-04:00

This is Precious Map, my latest design draft.   I've always been enamored with these ice-cream-y colors.  So much so, that on more than one occasion, I've described my outfit as "an explosion at the Skittles factory during the Easter Skittles production".  They quite simply make me happy.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-35602207899954443622010-08-26T10:10:00.000-04:002010-08-26T10:11:49.726-04:00

I have been daydreaming about figs lately.  Up until a few days ago, I hadn't eaten one in over 10 years, and I wanted to get some just to remember what they taste like.  I wasn't actively pursuing the figs (i.e. going to the store and buying them), but I just kind of new that they would somehow magically find their way into my hands (and then my tummy!).  And on Monday, completely out of the

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-68275705099987702332010-08-25T14:47:00.000-04:002010-08-25T14:48:40.558-04:00

Hello there!  One of the things I enjoy the most during the summer and fall is the bounty of fresh produce that we get in Michigan.  There are so many farm stands all around and it's wonderful to stop in and pick up some fresh sweet corn, some crispy kale, gigantic zucchini, a wonderful assortment of berries and cherries, crisp apples, or the sweetest peaches you can imagine. It is delightful

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-70280990322476487582010-08-24T09:45:00.000-04:002010-08-24T09:45:14.617-04:00

Oh, Brown Paper Packages! How I love thee! Whether you are tied up with string or masking tape- it doesn't matter to me. I got my monster printer yesterday.  It weighs about 40 lbs and takes up about 25% of my dining room table desk.  It is HUGE! I was floored when I saw the massiveness of it in my living space.  I don't mind, though. This printer is the MOTHER of all printers- the printer all

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-9147116798300231132010-08-23T18:54:00.000-04:002010-08-23T19:02:10.509-04:00

... especially The Boyfriend's living room! After a weekend of waging war against beige, the living room is finally close to being finished.  It only needs a few decorative touches... a nice arrangement in the mantle, some new pictures hung, some artwork, etc.  Needless to say, it is a vast improvement from what it was.   Without further ado, the following are the before and after pictures.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-53316541023099801002010-08-20T08:50:00.000-04:002010-08-20T08:51:09.356-04:00

The work week is finally coming to an end!  I've been driving myself insane between work and Swell Papel.  For those of you who do not know, I have a regular job to pay my bills.  Granted, I work from home, which gives me enough flexibility to pursue Swell Papel and then make up work hours during my lunch hour or in the evenings if needed, but it's still a "real" job and it's been a really busy

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-89636821806214814982010-08-18T13:07:00.000-04:002010-08-18T13:07:34.149-04:00

I'm an Illustrator goddess! I've managed to make this drawing from start to finish in less than 2 hours, which, if you've been reading the past posts, is a HUGE deal for me. This is my first completed piece and I would put it on the Etsy shop immediately if it wasn't for the fact that I don't have a printer yet...   Oh yeah... I need to get on that (buzzkill). Anyway, if you feel so inclined, I

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-65079178419985709102010-08-17T19:16:00.000-04:002010-08-17T19:43:04.056-04:00

 An exclamative. Made popular by the character Shaggy on the television show Scooby Doo. Often used by itself to express fright, panic or fear. -Urban Dictionary Today I've been working many hours on digitally tracing a drawing of mine on Illustrator, and I'm thinking, will I ever finish?   I'm sort of out of it- like someone sprayed mild bug spray in my face- and it is because I cannot believe

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-49590425519240307772010-08-16T14:28:00.000-04:002010-08-16T14:28:45.532-04:00

I got off to a very productive Monday morning today. Hurray! Getting my space in order when the week begins is a great way for me to get my mind ready and receptive to creating. And boy is my mind ready! One of my favorite things to do is put fresh linens on the bed and making the bedroom a fresh oasis waiting to embrace me after a long day. My favorite part of the bedroom is this nightstand,

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-47992244631175451112010-08-12T11:39:00.000-04:002010-08-12T11:39:42.240-04:00

I'm a huge fan of Design*Sponge- have been for years! And today, while doing research and hunting for inspiration, I ran across Grace's post about how to take a business full time. I will need to keep this video handy because I do want to be able to take my baby business (more like "fetus" business) full time eventually.

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-48563665766406290172010-08-12T08:53:00.000-04:002010-08-12T16:25:35.485-04:00

I woke up with a nice burst of energy that I hope lasts through the day.  I am expecting the delivery of my drawing software (Adobe Illustrator) today and I intend to spend a good part of the day going through tutorials online and reacquainting myself with it. I also need to figure out what kind of accounting system I'm going to use.  I'm dreading this because I  am not exactly literate on

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-68069260505817320462010-08-11T15:47:00.000-04:002010-08-11T16:08:33.343-04:00

I picked up a copy of The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin the other day.  I'm finding it amazingly helpful and I'm so glad she rounded up other people out there who know a thing or two about the business.   I'm getting some great pointers from this book and I highly recommend it!  So far I've followed most of the recommendations on Chapters 1 and 2, and I'm making great progress! In just

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1151577455520086424.post-24840208233152579902010-08-11T07:17:00.000-04:002010-08-11T07:44:36.533-04:00

I'm on a roll here. I've been dreaming this up for years now and I finally decided to go ahead and do it- become part of the indie craft movement (or whatever it's called).  I used to belong to this community, having had a small handmade tile business, but after some time trying to sell my work in art fairs and online, I decided to close shop.  It all felt too mechanical, too forced, and not

Swell Papelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00748625677065431908noreply@blogger.com6