Mutoscope

This is Brynne:

Isn't she the best?

She was my inspiration for this recent piece. It's a mutoscope. Just like the old timey "video/flip books" that you would see at carnivals and boardwalks. Mine is made from cherry and a cardboard tube. As you turn the old fishing reel handle the cards flip and make a little show of Brynne running around. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment.

Numbers

Again, I like to save money, and give gifts that have a personal touch. These numbers I saw in a magazine a while back, and managed to paint them in just a couple hours (the rest are after the break):

Vintage Card Mosaic

For my girlfriend I had gone to the flea market to pick up used post cards and then painted Van Gogh's olive grove on the front. The back still displays the original message that was written decades ago.

I just need to find a way to hang it. 

Recycled Junk Mail Art

I came across these online which are made from recycled junk mail. I drew the tear drop shapes first and then cut them out and glued them to a piece a paper and framed it. Ta-DA!

Lightening Bugs in a Jar

As I have said before, I often find something in a magazine or online and figure I can make it myself. Here is my version of lightening bugs in a jar:

And the lid:

Gates

The following posts are items that I have made as gifts.

I received a wire bender from Duluth trading, which mind you is one of the cooler magazines I receive. I used said bender to make the wire fence:

The other three are simply made from wood, with copper plating for the hinges, and bent wire for the hooks.

Thank You

I had come across this website which shows you how to make a very impressive thank you note. Below is my attempt at recreating the awesomeness.