Written in Stone

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Hi Everyone,

There are so many things I want to share tonight! First of all, for those who are in Central Florida, I just found out that there are a few spaces left in the two workshops (Zenspiration® Dangle Designs at 11:00, and Zenspirations Creative Coloring Techniques at 3:30) I’ll be giving this Friday, March 13th, at She Scrapbooks, 918 Bichara Boulevard, The Villages, Florida 32159. For more information, or to register, call 352-259-6226. I’d love to see you there!

 

I’ve been asked to design several sets of notecards, each of which will have 10 related designs in a package, for a line launching this spring. I wanted to share two of the different concepts I’ve been working on. The first series is called ‘Written in Stone’, and will have either words or short phrases superimposed onto select stones.

The working title for the next series is ‘Love Lines’, and regular Zenspirations(R) blog readers will probably recognize this as a take off on the ‘Rooted in Love’ look. The scrolly line which forms the word also divides the page. To add visual interest, I’m planning to use a different color/pattern treatment above and below the ‘Love Line’.

I’ve had a great time experimenting with different color techniques for the series. Here are a couple of close-ups from ‘Written in Stone’: 

 

And here are a couple of close-ups from the ‘Love Line’ series:

 

It’s always helpful during this phase of a project, to get input and advice… and you have been so generous with your comments and suggestions, that I’d appreciate your help once again. As an incentive, I will put the names of everyone who answers the questions into a box, will pull someone’s name at random, and send them their choice of one of the new notecard sets as soon as they are available. As a bonus, I will hand-letter a name in whatever color you choose, and send that along with the notecards! I’m hoping that will inspire you to take a few minutes to answer these questions for me: 

1. If you were buying a box of notecards, would you rather have 2 each of 5 designs, or 1 each of 10 designs?

2. In the ‘Written in Stone’ series, would you prefer to see words or phrases (see examples above) written in the stones?

3. In the ‘Love Lines’ series, would you prefer

  A: 10 verbs (i.e. dream, believe, imagine, inspire, sing, dance, create, transform, smile, love)

  B: 10 nouns (i.e. joy, peace, gratitude, delight, harmony, cheer, serenity, prosperity, compassion, happiness)

  C: 10 words on one theme (i.e. LIGHT– illuminate, kindle, spark, flame, blaze, illumine, glow, shine, enlighten, ignite)

     D: 10 of the same word (i.e. Love): Please share what word you would prefer _____.

4. For the remaining series, which of the following themes would interest you (pick as many as you like):

     A. Scripture

  B. Inspirational words

  C. Trees

  D. Music

  E. Yoga

  F. Patterns (no text)

  G. Something else (please specify!) ____
I feel very blessed to have a built-in community of people to ask about this… in addition to answering the questions, let me know if you have any ideas for this new line. Feel free to suggest specific words or phrases that you’d like to see me use… thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts!
And since sharing is a deep act of love, I’ll close with three variations on the love theme.

Stay Zenspired,
Joanne
PS Heartfelt thanks to everyone who commented on the tree variations from last week’s blog. There were some great suggestions, and I’m planning to try some additional variations next time I take a ‘play day

60 thoughts on “Written in Stone”

  1. 1. I'd prefer 2 each of 5 designs
    2. Yes, I like words in the stones
    3. I would prefer verbs
    4. A, B, C, F
    Great work!

  2. 1) I would like one of each of 10 designs.
    2)I would like phrases written in the stones.
    3) In the love line series I would prefere verbs or nouns, either one.
    4) Themes that interest me are scripture, inspirational words, music, art, cats.

    My favorite color is blue.
    I LOVE your work!!!!
    Bethany

  3. 1. 1 of 10
    2. words
    3. verbs although I also like "C"
    4. A,B,C,D

    LOVE the Love theme

  4. 1. 2 each of 5 designs
    2. words
    3. Definitely nouns, the verbs can sound bossy
    4. C, F, and G…quotes

    I am thankful for your beautiful style. Thank you for sharing it with the world!

  5. 1. 2 each of 5 designs – one for me, one to send

    2. Single words (and I LOVE the carved look!)

    3. C – a theme

    4. B – inspirational words

    I love your palette. And the stones idea is a unique twist on a popular item. Wonderful!

  6. 1) I would prefer 2 each of 5 designs as I often use note card for crafting. With a set of two, one can make layers.
    2) I prefer words to phrases as single words do not distract my eye from the art.
    3) In the Love Line series, I like all the options equally. That's probably not helpful, but why waste good ideas just because you have too many of them?
    4) Themes that I would like to see: trees, music, family, community, character words (respect, integrity, humility, generosity, courage . . .), birds, gardens, water
    Joanna, I follow your work, am inspired by it, use and recommend your video tutorials, and have even summoned up the courage to teach a senior citizen group to zen-doodle because of your example. Thank you for everything!

  7. 1. 2 of five so I could keep my favorites and still share.
    2. I love the words. But would love the phrases inside.
    3. I like the verbs. They are encouraging to me.
    4. A, B, & D
    I love your ideas for cards and I love sending people real cards with notes of encouragement or prayers. I would like to buy them when they are ready. Please let us know where to purchase them.
    Thanks for sharing.

  8. 1) 2 of each…sometimes the same idea works for more than one person

    2) I think you can do both words and phrases….different sets of cards or mixed.

    3) I think all of the variations work well. Verbs, Nouns, Themes, all serve different purposes and I love them all!!

    4) Inspirational words, Music and Trees would be themes I would most use.

    Colors – I love the blues and purples, but most of all I love the gradient rainbows, they speak to both beauty and diversity.

  9. 1. I would rather have 2 each of 5 designs.
    2. I would prefer to see words written in the stones.
    3. I would prefer 10 nouns.
    4 The following themes would interest me: Inspirational words, Yoga, and Patterns

    A specific word I’d like to see is Namaste. A phrase I’d like to see is “You are loved”.

  10. 1. The 2 of 5 Keep one and give one away.
    2. I like Phrases – even the smallest little pebble can mean so much!
    3. A or all of them. Just more options which fit each situation.
    4. B, C D or anything organic ie. leaves, flowers, water, butterflies, etc.

    I love your work and am honored that you asked my opinion……

  11. Hi Joanne
    1. 2 of each (allows a broader spectrum of use);
    2. Words – I find these very powerful and inspirational;
    3. Verbs – see 2. above;
    4. B, D, F, animals, art.

    If I am lucky enough to be chosen pink or purple please!

    Good luck and keep up the FANTASTIC work!

    Annette

  12. I love all the card designs! Here are my answers:
    1. 2 each of 5 designs
    2. Words
    3. I love the nouns
    4. B, C, and F

    The stone cards are so beautiful and I love the colours.

    Take care!

  13. 1. 2 each of 5 designs
    2. Words – I like the simplicity of just one word in a stone. A single word seems to pop off the page.
    3. 10 verbs – I love using action words as opposed to nouns (a name); always hoping to inspire someone to be motivated with an idea
    4. A. Scripture; B. Inspirational words; C. Trees
    I really enjoyed the different styles you created with trees in your March 3rd blog

    What a joy your blog brings to me – Thank you!

  14. 1. 10 designs

    2. In the ‘Written in Stone’ series, I would prefer words.

    3. In the 'Love Lines' series, would you prefer

    A: I prefer 10 verbs the denote an action while nouns are passive.

    D: 10 of the same word (i.e. Love): Please share what word you would prefer _all of them are wonderful…I like inspire best.____.

    4. For the remaining series, which of the following themes would interest you (pick as many as you like):

    B. Inspirational words

    D. Music

    I love your art and your inspiration.

  15. 1. I think 2 of each design…..(2)..LOVE the stones!
    3. A B C
    4. A B C D
    I really enjoy your work and it is a constant inspiration to me. Thank You!

  16. 1. I'd prefer 2 each of 5 designs
    2. Yes, I like words in the stones
    3. I would prefer verbs
    4. A, & B
    Lovely cards!

  17. 1. 2 copies of 5 designs
    2. words
    3. nouns … they're suggestive rather than demanding verbs
    4. I prefer inspirational words/statements if you're going for messages … otherwise I love your trees!
    Love the etched look on the stones! Your art always makes smiles blossom! Cheers!

  18. 1) 2 of five

    2) I really love the single words on the stones

    3) The verbs speak to me most

    4) A, B, D, F

    Thank you so much for sharing your gift of creativity with us. You are such an inspiration and a dear, gentle heart.

  19. These are lovely. Fresh and unique.
    2 each of five designs seems best. It would be great to have two separate packs available so that all ten ideas could be used.
    Words and phrases used together in the stones would be interesting.
    I like, again, separate packs for nouns, verbs, one expanded word and themes. One theme that would interest me would be encouraging notes to send to school aged children and another for harried parents
    Themes B, C, and F appeal to me. Strength, Commitment, Blessed, Grace
    Choosing one favorite color is difficult. One reason Your work is so appealing to me is the colors. If I have to choose, I wear a lot of yellow. Wish I lived on that other coast and could take the Dangles and Color classes. Have a great day and thank you for brightening the world, Jane

  20. 1. 2 of 5
    2. words
    3. verbs
    4. A, B, F

    but I already want 10 of the love card you posted!

  21. Hi Joanne,

    1. 1 of 10 designs.
    2. I prefer words on stones, rather than phrases.
    3. Inspirational words.
    4. Scriptures, Patterns, music, butterflies, letters and trees.

    I love your art work and we are all so delightful to get inspired by your and it feels good that you are asking and taking suggestions from us.

    Thanks,
    –Sree

  22. Thank you so much for these beautiful cards that we can look forward to. You are such an inspiration.
    To answer your questions:
    1. 1 each of 10.
    2. I like both, but think the one word shows up much better.
    3. Verbs.
    4. A – B – D – E —
    Good luck on this new endeavor! and God bless you.
    Sarah

  23. Oh Joanne I LOVE these! I would like to order some! When will they be available?
    1.1 of 10
    2.Phrases in the stones
    3.Verbs
    4.Scripture and Inspirational words
    I am inspired that you continue to come out with.new creations. Go, Joanne, Go!
    Just LoVE your work!
    ~Wendy

  24. Hello Joanne,

    Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your process. 🙂

    1. 1 of 10 (I would buy 2 sets . . . one to keep and one to give away)
    2. Words
    3. Nouns and verbs
    4. Inspirational Words

    Warm hugs,

  25. 1. 2 of 5 designs
    2. Words
    3. Nouns
    4. A and B
    You are an amazing artist- love your work! It makes me smile!

  26. 1. 1 of 10
    2. Words
    3. A. Verbs and D. "Love" (Like both)
    4 . A. Scripture B. Inspirational Words D. Music

    Always LOVE your work and ideas! Zentastic!

  27. I would prefer words – and 1 of each design. I like a choice and I can always order more than 1 set.

  28. 1.) 10 individual designs
    2.) Phrases
    3.) Nouns, unless there are a variety of specific themes to choose from.
    4.) Patterns, Trees, Music, Parenting/Children

    Anything you decide on creating will be gorgeous and inspirational.

  29. 1. 2 of each
    2. words more than phrases
    3. B. 5 nouns/2 each on 10 cards – Joy, Compassion, Gratitude, Cheer, Blessings – These words would cover a variety of situations when a card would be sent. or D. -my word choice would probably be 'peace' with two each of your designs.
    4. Inspirational phrases – 'Peace is Possible' maybe? or just the designs by themselves.

    No matter what you choose, all your work is from you heart and that's what matters most!r

  30. Hi Joanne, I love everything you do, you are so talented.
    1. I prefer love lines
    2. 2 of each card
    3. Multi- colours but the blue, purple, turquoise ( my favourite colour) is outstanding.
    4. I prefer verbs or inspirational words
    .
    You inspire us all. Thank you!

  31. 1. I'd like 1 each of 10 designs
    2. I like words in the stones
    3. A – 10 verbs
    4.A – B – F

    I love your books. They are really helpful to start with.

  32. 1. 2 ea of 5 days
    2. phrases
    3. 10 verbs
    4. B, D & F

    I love how you show love, movement, inspiration and hope through your use of color. I can hear the music too!!

  33. 1. 2 of 5
    2. Words
    3. 10 words on a theme
    4. C Trees or D Music or F Patterns
    Or maybe something family oriented?

    These are all lovely and your colour blends are delightful.

  34. 1. 2 of 5 designs
    2 phrases
    3. 10 on one theme
    4 . Inspirational
    Great work. I love them all. Very hard to choose.

  35. 1-One design each
    2-Positive words, but phrases would be fun to do.
    3-Verbs if you replace "transform" with "delight" (Delight is my word, smile)
    4-Musici s my first choice, with trees a second.

    T H A N K Y O U JOANNE! I LOVE your work and your have inspired me to hours of play. Finally I found a Zentangle path that I LOVE. Smiles & Thank YOU!!

  36. I prefer 2 each of 5 designs. I like the words and the phrases on stones equally, so I'm of little help there. I love the words related to a theme, and options A and B are close runners up for me. And for the final question, I am thinking less about what i like and more about notecards I would send out to others (so what they would like, which would be a consideration when i purchase)… So, inspirational words, trees, and yoga.

    All in all, anything Zenspirations speaks to my heart!

  37. 1. If you were buying a box of notecards, would you rather have 2 each of 5 designs, or 1 each of 10 designs?
    Depends – If there were 10 designs available I would purchase 1 each of 10 designs – but if there were 10 designs available and 2 each of 5 designs – I would buy both packs to have all ten. Does this make sense?

    2. In the ‘Written in Stone’ series, would you prefer to see words or phrases (see examples above) written in the stones?
    I have a different option – I am a phrase person – but it is hard to put phrases in the stones because some may be long – so perhaps write phrases – that follow along a path in each stones (one or more words per stone)…. I love phrases!!!

    3. In the 'Love Lines' series, would you prefer

    A: 10 verbs (i.e. dream, believe, imagine, inspire, sing, dance, create, transform, smile, love)

    B: 10 nouns (i.e. joy, peace, gratitude, delight, harmony, cheer, serenity, prosperity, compassion, happiness)

    C: 10 words on one theme (i.e. LIGHT– illuminate, kindle, spark, flame, blaze, illumine, glow, shine, enlighten, ignite)

    D: 10 of the same word (i.e. Love): Please share what word you would prefer _____.
    Definitely C and D: Love: Unconditional, Timeless, Trust, Patience, Cherish, Forever, Protect, Share, Infinite, Respect

    4. For the remaining series, which of the following themes would interest you (pick as many as you like):

    A. Scripture *** This would be so great!

    B. Inspirational words *** I would buy this too!!!

    C. Trees **** Yes!

    D. Music **** love this idea!

    E. Yoga – I would probably buy this too!

    F. Patterns (no text) – Definitely!!!!!!

    G. Something else (please specify!)
    Disabilities Awareness: Autism e.g. Just because I can't speak doesn't mean I have nothing to say.
    Breast Cancer Awareness….
    Dance: Ballet, Plie, Arabesque, etc…
    French/Paris theme: amour, oui, etc.
    Travelers theme: Bon voyage, embrace, explore/exploration, find or found, etc…
    On Death and Dying or Trauma: Hope, Faith, etc.
    I have more but I'm afraid I wrote too much already!!!!!

    This is a great idea!!! Thank you for sharing with us!!!!

  38. Hi
    I'd like 2 of 5 designs, one to send, and one to keep.
    Stone words
    10 verbs,
    Inspirational words,
    Music
    And family, ie Mom or Grandma…
    FYI, you art continually inspires me, thank you.
    Lisa

  39. Hi
    I'd like 2 of 5 designs, one to send, and one to keep.
    Stone words
    10 verbs,
    Inspirational words,
    Music
    And family, ie Mom or Grandma…
    FYI, you art continually inspires me, thank you.
    Lisa

  40. 1. 2 of 5 designs
    2. words in the stones
    3.verbs
    4. B, C and F
    Your art is beautiful – thank you!

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