Patti Edmon Artist

One of the best things about the last Paper Swap (hosted by the fabulous Lawenda) was that my partner took.... a bit of extra time to get the package together, as did I. With good reason though - we decided to make a custom piece for each other. Dale is from Canada and lives in Korea. She made this fabulous necklace for me! Loads of detail that adds interest to the amazing style. Speaking of paper, she also included a section of Korean newspaper and a pack stationery made in Korea that is too cute - I'll have to scan a piece. I love collecting papers from other countries, whether it's tissue paper, newsprint, wrap or wallpaper, stamps... All great additions to my stash! We agreed on 3 ATCs and I absolutely love hers... they are rich in color and design and will make my collection infinitely more fabulous. Dale requested a journal, my specialty:) She said she hadn't used one before so hopefully this one will inspire her to begin. I had a blast making it and though I worri...

Halloween isn't here yet, but like most major events, my favorite part is the preparation, whether it's decorating, planning or art projects, like making ATCs for a swap. I made these for my 14 Secrets Swap and I might as well admit, I'm truly a novice when it comes to this cool, inspiring art form - this is my third swap. I love the challenge of working in this size and, like inchies, am amazed by what is possible in such a small space. Today is cookie decorating day - my daughter and her friend, Maddie, probably with a little help from my son, are going to frost, sprinkle and eat their way through a plate full of sugar cookies; I'm sure it will trigger a wave of sweet nostalgia and a couple dozen photos.  Another tradition is waiting until 4:00 p.m. on the 31st to buy the first piece of candy. When the kids were little I bought stuff I don't like, but that's getting harder as they have a little more pull in the selections. I'm planning to wear the same co...