PaintedBull

Apology...I am sorry.

2010-07-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

I am very vocal about the attacks that happened on September 11th, 2001. My husband was there, he is a survivor. He lost three friends from his office. He saw groups of over 20 people holding hands jumping from the towers. He saw people burst into bloody heaps when their bodies hit the building, or the light poles in the plaza, or the ground. He saw the body parts strewn all over the ground. He had to dodge the bodies that fell, in fact one of the friends he lost died from getting hit by a jumper…right in front of my husband. He saw it. He was in a warzone. He experienced something that none of us can imagine. We (me and our kids) did not know he was alive until he walked in the door at 7pm that night. He still has nightmares about this, it ruined our lives. So yes, I am very vocal and emotional about anything to do with the WTC site or any comments about those attacks. If I offended anyone, I am sorry. I do not post “hate”on the web. Yes…I said that I think it was a bad thing about the 13 story Mosque and Community Center right in Ground Zero. I did write this:

“My husband, feels this Mosque built there at Ground Zero a slap in the face to those families that lost so much that day. Almost a decade later & nothing to remember those who were killed. But go ahead & put up a Mosque, he went thru hell that day, and lost 3 from his office. It still haunts him…it haunts all of us in this family.”

Sorry if it offended anyone, but there is so much pain associated with these attacks for me and my family…so again sorry if my emotions and feelings offended anyone.

I am not nor have I ever been a fan of Obama. I am a staunch supporter of Hillary Clinton. I have issues with the sexism that many seem to resort to when it comes to any woman running for office, no matter what political party…sexism against women is bad...any woman...period. (The recent crap with Mel Gibson comes to mind.)We are all strong women…yes? I never would have gotten so vocal about any of this 2 years ago. I guess that is something that has evolved in me because of the experiences I have had on Etsy. Standing up for myself in the Etsy Forums...I guess has given me the guts to say things that I feel strongly about. I don’t hide behind a façade.

I will no longer be sending any links...and I mean any links...to my @PaintedBull Twitter Account. I am sorry if it offended anyone. It was not meant to be offensive. I know it is repetitious but...again...I am sorry if anything I have said or tweeted offended anyone, I think of twitter as a stream of consciousness thing and write stuff as I think of it. That is all...it is not meant to persuade anyone.

Going forward I am sending links that I find interesting to my @MinkoffMinx Twitter Account. If anyone found those links interesting, then follow me here. Cause I think that my Pro-Women and Pro-Hillary links...and other stuff like it, will increase with frequency as the days and months pass...This includes anything I may link to regarding my opinion on Obama, and his administration. Just because I link it, does not mean I completely agree with it…It just means I read all of these and form my own opinions! Which brings me back to the stream of consciousness thing of Twitter...that is what I was reading at the time...so I sent the link.

The blog I started Minkoff Minx, was and is something I have been doing since Spring of 2008. I just kept my own blog of things I found interesting. It started primarily because of the 2008 Elections. It was about anything and everything...I kept this blog hidden and not public. It was like a notebook of my thoughts. That is what Minkoff Minx is, my own thoughts...I don't know why I went "public" with it. I guess I just have become bold and felt like I could say what I felt. The Minkoff Minx blog is not written for anyone but me. It is my way of working through thoughts. If what I write bothers anyone, just don't read it. Ignore it as just another opinionated blog that some "nobody" has written...that nobody reads.

Anyway, again I am sorry if anyone was offended.

-JJ aka Painted Bull

First attempt at toothbrush rug...

2010-06-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

So I just started this whole naalbinding thing...and I am looking forward to making more. But need to work on it to get the speed up.

Since I did not have much of these bright jewel colors, I did a chair pad for my rocker...

I am working on shawls done in a naabinding style that resembles netting. Well see what comes of it.
-JJ & Painted Bull

Get Uppity!

2010-05-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

New Video Ad for Uppity Minions...it is great to see this, with all the work we have been doing on the site.

Get Uppity! www.uppityminions.com

-JJ & Painted Bull

New blog...new post

2010-05-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

I have my own website now, and it has a blog...so I started writing some entries there... primarily as a way to write the new running series I have on the Uppity Minions Blog.

So here is what I have been working on, if you really care or want to read the rest, just click the link...

Chronology of Crap Confessions of a Former Mall Rat

Yes, I was a 80’s mall rat. When big hair was in and androgynous men looked a lot more fashionable than most women…and that was before the term “metro sexual” hit the scene. My first job was at a t-shirt shop in a mall, you know the ones that iron on decals while you wait. This employment was the induction of my “mall culture” experience. A mall was essential back then, the internet was not around so online shopping was not ingrained into the society as it is today. If you needed anything, the mall was where you went. So like many young adults of my generation, working at the mall was something that we just did.

My period of mall rodent status continued over 11 years, graduating from t-shirts to hosiery to upscale womans wear. This was a learning experience and I have carried it with me. Being able to connect to your customers with a simple “Welcome to Chico’s” and giving personal service is something I find lacking online. This individual customer service and non-boring shopping experience is something that we want to bring to Uppity Minions…but that is off the real topic at hand…which is this confession of a former mall rat, so here goes the confessional part:

Read the rest here...

-JJ & Painted Bull

Come and check out the Uppity Minions Fan Page on Facebook

2010-05-17T08:34:00.001-07:00

I've gone out on my own...

2010-05-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have really given up on the idea of selling online on Etsy...or Artfire...or any other venue for that matter. It was a frustrating 2 years, but now I feel like any work I do for promoting my own site will actually be a good thing...cause it is my own site and I don't have to deal with all that venue crap. Damn those handmade venues, they are nothing more then idealistic, groupie favoritism, and cupcake bands of followers...very much like the shit you have to deal with in high school, it sucks ass!

So this is why I have finally gotten the balls and got my own site. And that is why I have started this Painted Bull Shop Fan Page on Facebook... So if you are on facebook, please like me...so that I can shorten my Facebook Fan Page URL!

I also have joined up with other women artist who are fed up with the venue shit...and we have created a collective of shops, sort of like a cooperative called: Uppity Minions

But that is another story...and another posting.

Ta!

Click this link and get some Clevergoods!

2010-05-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Coupon we have Coupon... (sob of gratitude)

Join us as we celebrate our opening (drumroll) enter clevergoods at checkout and get 20 percent off entire Uppity Minions purchase!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Uppity Minions Site is a Go!

2010-05-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

We Are Go!

Hey, come visit us at our new shop! No illusions of grandeur, just a site that works, people that respect one another and happen to think our buyer's are pretty important too.

Think Little Engine that finally got pissed off enough.

Hell yeah!

I am an Uppity Minion and I am proud!

-JJ Painted Bull

And Goodbye to Etsy...

2010-04-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

Well, this last bit of Dopplegate Google issues was the final straw that broke this bull's back. I finally took the chance to get my own website. I am very excited about this because I will be able to have control over all aspects of my shop.

I am still working on loading the site up, which is www.PaintedBullShop.com so stop by and take a peek...

I used Pappashops and really recommend their services.

For my template I had Emily from Emmarie Designs change up one of her basic templates a bit...

She did a fabulous job.

So stay tuned for the official grand opening of Painted Bull Shop, the postcards and mailings are being designed now...but if you absolutely need some funky necklace, I am running a 20% off sale for Mother's Day on the site, so check it out.

-JJ & Painted Bull

New Bull, and that ain't no shite!

2010-04-01T16:31:00.000-07:00

So I opened a new shop on Etsy:

Crocodile Deliverance selling Handspun Yarn....you can find it at www.CrocDeli.com

Then all the Dopplegate stuff happened on Etsy...and like the many migrants found my self over at Zibbits.

My Zibbet shops are: www.Zibbet.com/PaintedBull
and www.Zibbet.com/CrocodileDeliverance

I am really liking the set up over and Zibbets, and my CrocodileDeliverance shop is a premier account so I can fix it up how I like.

Another thing happened to me on the way to the forum...the Etsy Forum that is!

Safe to say that a picture is worth a thousand words...right?

Nuff said!

So...until the shite hits the fan... adiós!

-JJ and Painted Bull and Crocodile Deliverance aka CrocDeli

New shop on Etsy!

2010-01-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Please check out my new shop on Etsy: Crocodile Deliverance

I spin and ply all my own homespun yarn on my handcrafted Majacraft Rose Wheel, or my Jonathan Bosworth, Tracy Eichheim, Forrester or Grizzly Mountain Arts handmade spindles. All the alpaca fiber is from our own alpacas, and I wash and card this fiber by hand. All yarn is washed in extremely hot water to set the twist and to full and soften the yarn. Please convo me if you have any questions or comments. See my Fiber Art Jewelry Etsy Shop PaintedBull.etsy.com or my personal Etsy account jjwalts.etsy.com for positive feedback. Thank you.

Support handmade items and supplies, Buy Handmade!

-Painted Bull’s Crocodile Deliverance

-JJ & Painted Bull

Weavolution

2009-08-19T16:46:00.001-07:00

What does Weavolution offer that you cannot find anywhere else online?

1. Discover a dedicated gathering place for handweavers. Weavolution allows you to focus on your weaving. We are ALL weaving ALL the time. Nothing else.

2. Post your projects, looms, drafts, and yarns--all in your notebook called My Stuff. (And edit your information any time).

3. Upload images at 800 x 800 pixels, allowing you to record, share and view minute details of color and stucture (Tips on Pics under the Help tab).

4. Find roomy comment fields allowing up to 2000 characters and pictures to document your creative warping, weaving and finishing processes.

5. Click on any project picture or draft entered in the last month and it will automatically enlarge (Try a second click for even greater detail!).

6. We know what features are most important to handweavers: looms, drafts, images and a wide variety of groups to join and forums to discuss their interests with other weavers.

7. Calculate the materials needed for your next project with our enhanced Resources section or find a guild to visit on your next trip!

Why not give it a try? Join the Weavolution!
Come check it out!

-JJ & Painted Bull

My little girl can fly an ultralight!

2009-07-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of my daughter flying an ultralight airplane. My dad has been teaching her to fly:

-JJ & Painted Bull

Link to Etsy Wars....

2009-07-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

http://etsybitch.blogspot.com/2009/07/here-is-article.html

The link!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Something close to my heart...EtsyFAIL

2009-07-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Etsy Bitch has a new post that I really cannot wait to see fully fleshed out.

Since my Fuck You Etsy incident, I have often wondered why Etsy can still get away with all the crap they dump on their sellers. So perhaps this Fortune Small Business article can be a starting point, and Etsy will actually begin to be accountable for their actions.

I will post the link to the FBS article when it becomes available.

-JJ & Painted Bull

View from my back porch...

2009-06-29T17:10:00.000-07:00

Just some pictures of Mulky Gap...

-JJ & Painted Bull

Frustrated and Confused

2009-06-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

I just do not get it sometimes. See...my idiot husband has switched his dip preference to this new chew from Camel (snuns or something like that), he says that you...uh this is sickening...do not need to spit it out (it is spit less chewing tobacco). So knowing Dan, I am a little curious that perhaps he has got it wrong, I mean spit less dip? Anyway, I go online to Camel.com to check it out....

...and would you believe that you cannot even see anything on the site unless you actually sign up online and give them all sorts of information. Now, I am no prude but I bet you anything that I can go online and see tits and ass with absolutely no problem at all (no sign up needed)...Damn it to hell!

Now to see if I can find out about these little smokeless, spit less chewing tobacco or dip...they look like little tea bags in the shape of large elongated rodent turds....

Okay, I digress...

-JJ & Painted Bull

Weavolution Official Press Release

2009-06-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

Press Release
June 8, 2009
Contact: Claudia Segal (240) 994-3099
claudiajane@weavolution.com
www.weavolution.com
JOIN THE WEAVOLUTION
The new online gathering place for hand weavers
Weavolution.com, an online social network designed to meet the unique needs of
handweavers, launched its beta test on June 8, 2009. Designed to bring handweavers
together from around the world, Weavolution.com is a one-stop resource for every type
of handweaver.
From hobby to production, from peg to dobby, Weavolution provides a place for weavers
to meet, discuss and participate in moderated user groups and forums.
Members may post projects, looms, yarns, books, and accessories to share with others
and solicit feedback from other members.
But you donʼt have to be a member or even a weaver to explore the site and learn about
weaving free of charge.
Weavolution aims to become an inclusive, global community that encourages weavers
by enabling them to discover and follow trends in weaving; find local, national and
international resources; and find businesses catering to their needs. Weavolution
members can search the siteʼs databases to view items, group postings and research
information catalogued by others.
Weavolutionʼs goal is to provide a website for handweavers that is useful, fun and
helpful, and to be a resource for shops, products and ideas from around the corner and
around the world.
The project began in 2008 when three weavers from across the United States, Claudia
Segal, Tien Chiu, and Alison Giachetti, met online and formed Weavolution. Working
together with a host of dedicated volunteers, the team forged Weavolution.com into a
website with the potential to become a community.
Come, take a look. Weavolution.com is available for anyone to explore. You donʼt have
to sign up to see our site. But if you do, we hope youʼll decide to
JOIN THE WEAVOLUTION

-JJ & Painted Bull

Possibilities?

2009-05-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well my husband has been going on and on about a food cart...so I thought it would give me something to do:

So I did this logo...I know it is not much but...it is keeping me busy. He is thinking Chicken Wings, Hot Dogs, and Pulled Pork Butt Sandwiches...I am thinking, Damn he is going off on the deep end!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Birthday....

2009-04-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday today...I am 39 years old.

-JJ & Painted Bull

What I have been working on...

2009-04-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a new market for 1000 Markets. It is a cooperative market with a twist....

I started a blog to journal the experience of creating this market:

http://cavalcadeofthemes.blogspot.com/2009/04/update-and-continuation.html

So here is to hoping this cavalcade gets of and running...

-JJ & Painted Bull

Wow, what an honor!

2009-03-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

I am so proud to be a featured artist on Ninja Jenn's blog:

http://ninjajenn.blogspot.com/2009/03/free-press-friday-painted-bull.html

She has done such a fantastic post, I am so honored! Thanks woman!
-JJ & Painted Bull

Moving

2009-03-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

Well we are moving to a new place this week, so I have sporadic internet service. I will try to check in as the week progresses. I just can't weight till it is all over!

-JJ & Painted Bull

New Direction Going Forward

2009-03-16T02:37:00.000-07:00

So what is my happy news...

Please see the following links for more information:

Coming Soon to 1000 Markets!

1KM's new "Cooperative Market" is in the making...the Promotion/Marketing is the "product theme" of the new market that I will be managing. It is a cooperative effort between the artist who are members of the Market.

Here is the plan...The shops on 1000 Markets all have quality items, and the 1KM site is very pleasing to look at. What the "Idea" of this Co-op market would be is a combination of all different kinds of artisan products, that will appeal to many people who appreciate quality and the time it takes to make these products. Instead of just one shop marketing itself, all the shops within the market will focus their marketing for the whole "Cooperative Market."

One person can only do so much for their own shop, if we got together and all promoted the Co-op market...this will be utilizing all the individual shops within the market to bring customers to the "Cooperative Market" site on 1KM.

When many get together to promote the entire Co-op Market, it creates a sense of urgency and excitement. I know that this concept can be a success.

I have 11 years of experience with retail sales. Seven of them as a Manager and Regional Outreach Coordinator for Chico's in Sanibel Island, the company has its HQ in Fort Myers. This was back in the early 90's when Chico's was building and expanding it's company. I was fortunate to be involved with the company at such a crucial time because the whole "Chico Culture" as it was called was a very specific form of retail sales. It was more about the experience of shopping at a fabulous looking store that sold amazing quality stuff.

The 1000 Markets venue itself is going for a more polished look, and since it is a juried site, the focus seems to be more on creating a visual experience as well as shopping for Artisan Products... there is a different feel about the site. I feel the "market" idea is a fabulous one...These markets can be utilized as a selling tool.

There is a huge opportunity with this "market" concept that I think some are not truly grasping....the ability to shop using a "Market" brings a group of potential buyers that already are a "focus" or target market. Instead of being one individual shop among many, the market brings a group of us together and give us something to build on. The Market is like an athletic "Team" in the true sense of the word...even though there are individual rewards (ie your shop sales) the success of the "team" also depends on the effort that the individual puts into the "Team Events."

That is what I mean by this being a working market...a business market...the possibilities are endless.

I will be working on developing a cohesive plan for the market and flesh out the various forms of participation that would be required to join this market. This "member cooperative participation" must be distinctly understood by all future members of the market.

I will be posting more information regarding this market on this thread, as well as here on my blog, so please be sure to check on the progress of what I hope will become a sort of flagship market on 1000 Markets. It will be a bold and active member participation market that I think will really make a difference and become a powerhouse of talent for the 1KM site.

This is the beginning of a beautiful day and productive future. Thank you all so much.

-JJ & Painted Bull

Fellow 1KM Shop Owners

2009-03-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

1KM Artist Cooperative Market!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let us start a market for quality artisan products, and the 1KM artist shops who want to promote themselves and the market as a whole.

This can be the markets “theme”...

1KM Artist Co-op…working together to create sales and marketing opportunities for all members.

Oh boy, anyone with me on this one?

I just looked at all the markets on the site...This would be something totally different. Where shop owners can take part in marketing their own shops as part of a Market. It can be open to anyone who is willing to be supportive and contribute to the promotion and marketing of the 1KM Artist Cooperative Market.

Where quality products and a wonderful shopping experience are what the market members want to promote...to work together to build a following and create a real business like arena for artist who want promote and sell their wares...

This would not be just a social group market...but a serious business minded market. Where we all contribute to building relationships with others who see the "Market" as a business opportunity.

Lets get the word out there about our shops, we are here, we have fabulous products, and we want to get people to visit our shops and actually create energy that generates sales!

That must be understood. This is a working market, a business minded market...

If you are a member of 1KM then please check out this post:

http://www.1000markets.com/forums/19/topics/2841

I am curious to see what kind of response I get.

-JJ & Painted Bull

Got to love greasemonkey...

2009-03-01T18:37:00.001-08:00

If you use FireFox browser, then check this out

http://userscripts.org/

http://www.greasespot.net/

-JJ & Painted Bull

Sick Sick and More Sick

2009-02-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

I am in bed moanin' so catcha' later....

-JJ & Painted Bull

Clubhouses on ByHand.me

2009-02-17T12:34:00.000-08:00

Damn I am really lovin' this site https://www.byhand.me/

It has these clubhouses...I am in the ArtFire, 1000Markets and Weavemeet ones. You should check them out!!!

Facebook

2009-02-16T15:10:00.000-08:00

If you are on FaceBook watch out...Read this and just be aware!

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,494064,00.html

-JJ & Painted Bull

An ode to a dog...

2009-02-16T08:33:00.000-08:00

Ode to a dog...

There once was a dog,
from Virginia.
Who called a fat puss,
a vagina.

This cat was truly feral.
It had a buddy,
who joined the quarrel.

What turn of events that followed?
What bitter pill to be swallowed?

Abandon from "E" with glee,
this dog just turned out to be.

Inspiration for a draft,
in some warped bitch's craft.

------------------------------------------
Weave draft above inspired by the words "feralcuntass" using code to configure the pattern for a six harness loom. Choice of colors reflect: Green for the cat's envy and jealousy, and Pink for pussy...well you get the picture.

-JJ & Painted Bull

Want to insult someone?

2009-02-15T09:31:00.000-08:00

Anyone got a few choice words that you would like to say to someone, but just can't?

I am working on weave drafts and need some spiteful inspiration. Post a comment and make it a good one...I can think of one in particular that "Blue Eyed Dog" whose such talented linguistics, has produced...which I plan on using as my first design. So Tiffany, this one is for you...

-JJ & Painted Bull

New Study Group

2009-02-10T10:13:00.000-08:00

Hello, I have been working on a Study Challenge for the weavers guild on ArtFire and it seems to be taking a new direction.

I am starting a new study group on Complex Weavers.org
http://www.complex-weavers.org/index.htm

The study groups on ComplexWeavers is a serious endeavor...as you can
see from the requirements and policies they have regarding setting up
a new group.

http://www.complex-weavers.org/newgroup.htm

Attention ya'll....

So this is a call out to all you weavers out there...I am in search of
your expertise in complex weave structures on simple looms, like
backstrap looms, Inkles, or Rigid Heddles...

These complex weave structures include double and triple cloth,
various supplementary and complementary warp and weft woven structures
using pick-up technique and finger manipulation and multi-loop
heddles, as described in depth by Adele Cahlander in Double Woven
Treasures from Old Peru.

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Woven-Treasures-Old-Peru/dp/0932394051/r...

I will be the administrative and study group chair, but I need a
mentor to be the go to person and help with any questions or issues
that may arise in the study group regarding the actual weave
structures.

Please contact me if you are interested volunteering a little time to
promote the craft of weaving.

If you are a member of a weave list or guild that may have someone who
would like to participate as the study groups mentor please pass on
the information on to them. In other words...shout out this request
to all that will listen....Master Weaver, please share your knowledge!

Thank you, JJ Walts

------------------------------------------

I would like to add some new information. See the email correspondence
between the ComplexWeavers.org Study Group coordinator, Sara von
Tresckow and myself regarding the new study group...I am very excited.
I will be completing the questionnaire shortly and keep you posted on
the progress of the new group. So, let the games begin!!!!!!!!!

Sara:

I am writing you regarding the organization of a new study group for
Complex Weavers. Sheila Carey suggested I contact you about a Simple
Looms Study Group of Complex Weave Structures.

Other examples of these complex woven structures on simple looms, such
as Rigid Heddles, Inkles, Ground and Backstrap looms will be those
discussed by Peter Collingwood in The Techniques of Rug Weaving. New
York: Watson-Guptill, 1968. Pg 449-451. And also various finnweave
pickup techniques.

I have a few members of ComplexWeavers.org who have already expressed
an interest in joining a study group as this.

Please let me know if this study group seems like a viable and
acceptable new study group for ComplexWeavers.org, so that I can
continue with the process of setting it up. I realize study groups on
ComplexWeavers are a serious endeavor...as I can see from the
requirements and policies you have regarding setting up a new group.

Thank you, JJ Walts

JJ,
Now that sounds like a concept. While I weave on everything from an
Inkle to the TC-1, I am also very aware of the complexities of weaving
on simple looms.
In my eye, the richest as well as the simplest weaves can be made on a
set of strings attached to cross members - tabby, tapestry and knotted
pile. Add the Peruvian double weaves in there - and there is a concept
- one that can even be enhanced by the use of design software to
quantify complex patterning before it is woven.
You would be a wonderful antidote to the "I have 40 shafts and don't
know what to weave" crowd.
Please go out on the CW web site, fill out the questionnaire, and we
can begin. Publicity will be a bit of an issue as the Feb. Journal has
already gone to press. The next one is due out in June.
Oh, you'll also need to join Complex Weavers if you have not already
done so.
Looking forward to hearing more from you.

Sara and Hans von Tresckow
The Woolgatherers
Fond du Lac, WI

-JJ & Painted Bull

My Family

2009-02-08T18:50:00.000-08:00

I scanned some old pictures and uploaded them to Flickr...I think they came out pretty good. So I thought I would share them.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/paintedbull/sets/72157613499304671/

-JJ & Painted Bull

New post on WeftyWoman.com

2009-02-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

I posted a new item on Wefty Woman, about weaving in the News...

http://www.weftywoman.com/2009/02/warps-up-whats-news-in-weaving.html

Please check it out!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Just a reminder! Artfire Giveaway!

2009-02-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

Ya'll remember to stop by Risky Beads and check out the February Giveaway!

http://riskybeads.blogspot.com/2009/02/february-2009-artfire-giveaway.html

Painted Bull is very proud to be a part of the Risky Bead's February 2009 ArtFire Giveaway.

The code for customers to use to get 10% off of any purchase at Painted Bull is: RBFEBAF10P.

Please see the link above for more information.

Thank you Lori, for all the hard work on this promotion!

-JJ & Painted Bull

I'm So Excited and I Just Can't Hide It!

2009-02-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

Waaaaahooooo!!! So I was accepted to 1000 Markets and I just today finished getting my shop in order. (It was in Vaca mode until I got it fixed up.) So, guess what....I have been chosen as a featured artist section called "Staff Pick's".

http://www.1000markets.com/pages/community

This is very excited to me. There are so many wonderful artist on this site. Sorry for this being a "selfless plug" but damn I am happy!
-JJ & Painted Bull

February 2009 Artfire Giveaway!

2009-02-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce that Painted Bull is part of the Risky Bead's February 2009 ArtFire Giveaway.

http://riskybeads.blogspot.com/2009/02/february-2009-artfire-giveaway.html

The code for customers to use to get 10% off of any purchase at Painted Bull is: RBFEBAF10P.

Please see the link above for more information.

Thank you Lori, for all the hard work on this promotion!

-JJ & Painted Bull

New post on Wefty Woman

2009-01-27T13:49:00.000-08:00

http://www.weftywoman.com/2009/01/primitive-looms-and-complex-weave.html

Just made a new post on my Wefty Woman blog....check it out!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Helpful ArtFire Users Tips Links

2009-01-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

This is a fabulous post from 3zart:

http://3zart.blogspot.com/2009/01/posting-image-in-artfire-forums.html

Awesome, thanks for that wonderful and visual aid!

Anyone Else?

-JJ & Painted Bull

It is not cancer.

2009-01-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post this for all of you that have been so understanding and supportive these past 2 years.
I just got back from Emory, tumors are benign angiomas and I have atypical pneumonia and something called BOOP. The pneumonia is something that will take a long time to get over, and I must have my liver checked by MRI every 3 months. He wants to keep a close eye on the tumors because there is an increased risk of them developing into malignant cancer. That pneumonia is something that also causes a lot of my symptoms. I still cannot drive, due to the epilepsy and must remain on the liver medications. There is still a question regarding the lump in my breast, but for now at least it is not what they thought it was, neuro-endocrine cell cancer.
Thank you for everything!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Do something....

2009-01-15T08:53:00.001-08:00

Hey promote handmade, teach a young "hoodlum" how to do something creative. Get those kids off the Wii and text messages and learn them something else they can do with their industrious fingers! Even if it means they give you the finger for teaching them something they think they already know.

-JJ & Painted Bull

Hey you fiber nuts...

2009-01-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

Weavolution has begun...

So if you are a Ravelry.com fan, and you happen to be interested in weaving, you may want to check this site out:

http://www.weavolution.com

It is a new website that will be launched sometime in spring of 2009, and I urge everyone to please click on the link above to find out more information. It is truly a labor of love...

They are currently having an auction on EBay , there are not only weaving items, but various yarn and raw fibers...like silk and fleece.

You may find some great deals also help contribute to a new resource for weavers and fiber nuts on the web.

http://shop.ebay.com/merchant/weavolution08

-JJ & Painted Bull
-JJ & Painted Bull

Where you sell is simply a choice.

2009-01-12T08:51:00.000-08:00

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Art_Daily2&op=viewarticle&adaid=306

Please, I encourage any and all who read or see this to click the link about and read the article entitled "Opening a studio on ArtFire is a choice" that NCTeddyBearLady has written in ArtFire Daily . It is a wonderful and perfect statement.

-JJ & Painted Bull

Explanation for outburst

2009-01-09T04:59:00.000-08:00

I wanted to send something to explain my actions today. Please understand this has nothing to do with anyone on the weaveteam.

I have been lobbying to Etsy to give the weavers some recognition. We do not have a main category, and that is okay...but there is not one subcategory for handwoven. Not even in the fiber arts sub category.

I have repeatedly sent weaveteam news and updates for etsy to at least make a little announcement that we even exist. I have sent some info on our members and the work they do, I sent mini articles about Kirsten Kelly article in Handwoven, and Syne Mitchell...about her weavecast and weavezine. I sent just recently a little thing about Claudia Segal and her weavolution.com. These emails were sent in text format and on time...just as Etsy wants, they must be received by the 15th of each month. They also use this text format for updates to the member list on the team global page on etsy. They just cut and paste what the team leaders send them.
It has been very obvious that weaving is not a favorite craft for Etsy. There has been a lot that I have been doing behind the scenes. But, this last stab from Etsy put me over the top. Did you see the excitement from a lot of the commentators? They were getting information, they were curious, they were excited about weaving. Some were even discussing weaving theory and technique.

There was no calling out, no shop names mentioned, it seemed like there was no reason for that to be closed. If they wanted to move it to a different section fine. Move it.

I was posting on that thread, I had to leave to make my brother lunch (he has downs syndrome so he can not cook for himself) I come back an hour later and typed up a comment to someone who mentioned lace and the structure she uses...I go to post it and get that very big black message that reads "this thread has been closed" and I see that Michelle had shut the thread down.

I lost it completely. My emotions got the better of me and I wrote that new thread and clicked the post button. I went and wrote that letter to all of you on the team and sent it out. Then I went and posted the copy of the letter in the thread because I truly did not want any of you all to be affected by my actions.

It was closed after that.

I will still do the guild over at Artfire and have my main online shop there, and I plan to continue the WEAVEmeet project. (online global guild for weavers) http://weavemeet.com

I still want to be very active in promoting weaving, but I do not want my actions in anyway to affect weavers that sell on etsy.

Thank you, JJ

Formal Resignation from Etsy WEAVEteam

2009-01-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

Below is my goodbye letter to all the members of Etsy WEAVEteam. To fully understand my disgust and utter despair with etsy please see the two links below.

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5987079
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5987433

To all Etsy WEAVEteam members:

I have really had it and I want to apologize to all the weavers on
this wonderful group.

I am resigning from this group because I feel that my actions will
only hurt all of you.

This is very upsetting to me because I enjoy so much meeting you all
and discussing so much with you.

I was gone for an hour, I came back and saw a wonderful post regarding
tatting in a weave structure.
I went to post a comment about what a good question and the thread was
closed by Michelle.

I have been working so hard trying to build a group of people who are
interested in weaving.
I am physically ill right now because of this and I am very sorry
that my emotions got the better of me.

I will delete my group membership. So that there will be no
association with me to harm any of your shops on Etsy.

I am very sorry for this.

-JJ Walts & Painted Bull

--------------------------------------

First off I want to be sure that everyone knows that I have resigned from any and all connection to the Etsy WEAVEteam. I really said some nasty stuff and I do not want it to effect any WEAVEteam member's business with Etsy, and/or regarding the member's sales on Etsy.

But I want to distance myself from those with shops on Etsy, because I feel my remarks where a disservice to the Team and more importantly to the members of the Etsy WEAVEteam.

Now, that said, I am focusing my efforts and energy for my business of selling my handwoven jewelry on Artfire only.

I will still be guild master of the Weavers Guild on Artfire, and I sure will not give up on the http://weavemeet.com site, which is not a sales site or business site.

You can find out more information about WEAVEmeet at: http://weavemeet.blogspot.com

New WEAVEmeet sites...

2009-01-06T17:07:00.000-08:00

Check out some new sites.

For the Weavers Guild of ArtFire:
http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Guilds&op=guild_hall&guild_id=5

WEAVEmeet new blog:
http://weavemeet.blogspot.com/

WEAVEmeet new website:
http://weavemeet.com/

-JJ & Painted Bull

2009-01-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

I am starting to do the research for a paper or possible article on
comparative woven textiles and culture of various indigenous tribes
throughout the world, specifically regarding the women that weave
these items. Not just the actual weave structures, but the
anthropological aspect of the similarities of these various ethnic
groups. I would like to trace the possible movement regarding the
"culture of warp faced textiles" and relate this to the spread of
peoples, beginning in Africa through to the Middle East and Central
Asia and follow this as it spreads through Northern and Southern Asia,
into Indonesia, as well as into North America, Central America and
South America.
I would like to put this to fellow members of the weaving
community...Can you suggest any possible outlets that are available
for people who want to pursue a study in textiles, but do not belong
in the academic community. I have contacted my Alumni Association at
USF, however they do not have any online services for research that is
available for their Alumni. I just became a member of the Textile
Society of America and also Complex Weavers. If anyone has some
information or can point me in direction of possible resources for my
research please contact me or post a comment.
Thank you,

-JJ & Painted Bull

Great Balls Afire Sale!

2008-12-26T20:44:00.001-08:00

Come and shop and get 25% off all items!

-JJ & Painted Bull

Painted Bull's Etsy Shop Announcement

2008-12-24T12:28:00.001-08:00

PaintedBull's Shop Announcement
As of January 2009, I am closing my Painted Bull shop on Etsy.

Please see my studio shop at
http://PaintedBull.Artfire.com
and for more information about me and Painted Bull please visit my website: http://PaintedBull.net
Thank you, JJ Walts

Etsy WEAVEteam. If you have any questions regarding the WEAVEteam, please contact JD at http://JDStar.etsy.com .

And so the process begins...

2008-12-17T14:03:00.000-08:00

Well it may look like a jumbled mess, and it may not be on a Big Chief tablet...but it's a start.

-JJ & Painted Bull

2008-12-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

http://artfiredup.blogspot.com/2008/12/painted-bull-featured-artfire-artisan.html

This is wonderful...I am so proud...
-JJ & Painted Bull

Project Idea

2008-12-15T12:56:00.000-08:00

Project Idea.

This is how I thought about my project...
----------------------------------------------

Hello Joy,
My name is JJ Walts, and I am a member of the HGA. I am contacting you because I saw the link to your amazing website about the Bedouin.

I am so intrigued. In fact I posted a thread in my little online Weave Team forum about it.
This is what I wrote:

Hi everybody, I was reading in Shuttle Spindle & Dyepot (Fall 2008)
about an exhibit currently being shown at the Textile Museum in
Washington, DC.
The article entitled, Timbuktu to Tibet: Rugs and Textiles of the
Hajji Babas, written by Sumru Belger Krody (Shuttle, Spindle, &
Dyepot, Volume XXXIX No. 4, Issue 156, Fall 2008, Handweavers Guild of
America, Inc., pages 29-32).
I have to say the first few sentences really got my attention.
"Textiles, the most universal of all art forms, tell stories about the
lives of people worldwide. As social currency, they contain embedded
messages about an individual's wealth, social status, occupation, and
religious and ethnic associations, as well as the values, codes and
social order of a culture." (p. 29)
This really made me think about the comparative weaving structures,
techniques, and symbolism of various Ethnic Styles of weaving. Navajo,
African Tribal, Peruvian, Arabic, oh there are so many to list, but I
think you get the idea of what I am trying to say...
Because the article was featuring many central Asian woven art, I
became really interested in the Arabic weaving of the nomadic tribes
of the middle east. Many of you may understand what triggered inside
me. I want to learn more about the weavers and the work they produce.
I have studied about Navajo and African textiles, but this was the
first time I actually became aware of the Arabian weaves, almost
entirely produced by the women of the tribe.
I did some quick research on the web and found a site about Beduin
Weaving. The site address is: http://www.beduinweaving.com/toc.htm
The author is Joy May Hilden. She has some good information and
resources available on the site.
I encourage members of the group to check out her site. And also to
look into the other websites too:
HGA: http://www.weavespindye.org/
Textile Museum: http://www.textilemuseum.org/
This has really peaked my interest and I am going to definitely begin
to research and study this Bedouin form of weaving, as well as, the
profound theme that was quoted in the above cited article.
If anyone has suggestions, or comments about the Bedouin Weaving, or
any cultural weaving for that matter, please post it. I am genuinely
curious about the thoughts of the group regarding this, and any info
that may help me as I begin to look into this further.

The reason I copied what I wrote to the group was so you could see what got me thinking more about this subject, of which you are so knowledgeable. I plan on learning more about this form of weaving technique and structure, and the history and significance of Middle Eastern woven textiles. I feel so fortunate to have found all the information on your site, including the accessibility to email you and perhaps even develop a dialogue as I start to learn more.

I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this email. Your publications and bibliography are such a wonderful source for me.

-------------------------
Dear JJ,

Thank you for reading my website and for your refreshing take on the subject of beduin (bedouin) weaving. I'm pleased that you posted it on your website. Soon there will be more on the subject, since my book is going to be published within a year or 2. It will include lots of photos and illustrations and instructions about how to weave, including pattern drafts, etc. Plus, there'll be stories of my contacts with beduin all over Saudi Arabia and some other parts of the Arab world. Keep in touch with me and I'll let you know when it comes out.

Thanks,
Joy

-JJ & Painted Bull

New project

2008-12-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

I am starting a new project. It is something I do on a regular basis. I discover or read about something, become fascinated, then research and learn as much as I can about the subject. If it is about weaving, spinning, knitting, etc...I will teach myself, or take classes to learn how to do the actual technique or style of work.
I have spent some time learning about, Navajo and African weavers, Indian form of embroidery called Kantha, as well as, spinning cotton on a Chakra. It isn't just the style of the fiber art that intrigues me, it also is the history, culture, traditions,laws and customs, religion (the big picture) of the particular subject that I want to learn about.
This time I plan on being a little more formal with my research and quest for knowledge.

-JJ & Painted Bull

2008-12-11T13:20:00.000-08:00

Closed thread on Etsy regarding loyalty.

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5945543

-JJ & Painted Bull

Goodbye Etsy Goodbye

2008-12-07T17:52:00.000-08:00

Hello ArtFire.

New shop on Artfire:

http://PaintedBull.artfire.com

2008-11-28T14:08:00.000-08:00

http://www.heartofstonestudio.com/Guest%20Gallery.htm

Please check out the link above to see my Ammonite Woven Necklace in the Gallery of the Heart of Stone Studio. Thank you so much Judith and heartofstonestudio.com

UC Panthers are the Champions!

2008-11-16T08:35:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of little boy’s Pee Wee Football Team.
The Union County…Mighty Panthers!
They are the NGYF Champions! They had a perfect season. 11 and 0

On to Battle at Rocky Top in TN!
So Go Mighty Panthers! Purple, Black and White. Fight! Fight! Fight!

First sale feedback +

2008-11-13T17:54:00.000-08:00

Yeah...I got my first feedback from my very first sale. I just think it is a great milestone. Now my confidence is a little higher. I am happy.

Website us up!

2008-11-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Please check out my website. Link to paintedbull.net is up top. I have been trying to get with all this computer tech stuff.

Buy Handmade!

2008-11-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

I really think people are realizing the importance of Handmade. There are more customers appreciating the individual styles. I also think visitors to a site like Etsy are looking for that little extra something when it comes to gifts this holiday season. Purchasing Handmade items makes the holiday gift giving experience so much more personal, for both the gifter and the giftee.

Technology wow

2008-11-06T07:24:00.001-08:00

Posting a few items from my shop...I am trying to get this all together. All this computer stuff is frying my brain.

Special Thank You to Erin & Swiekysiggies

2008-10-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

I am starting my own business and Erin and her shop at swiekysiggies.etsy.com have really helped pull the shop together. This post is not only a positive reflection of Erin's work, it is a “shout out” to all future and current customers of swiekysiggies.etsy.com shop. My custom logo and graphic design by Erin and her swiekysiggies shop is one of the best purchases and buyer experiences I have had using Etsy.com. Erin is a wonderful graphic artist. Her paintbrush is a mouse and keyboard and her canvas is a computer screen. She worked with me every step of the way in designing the logo and graphics for my new etsy shop. Erin was able to take my simple thought and her simple black outlined design and turn it into a true expression and representation of my work. Erin has been so beneficial regarding the marketing direction of my business. I am so excited and pleased with the excellent custom logo and graphic design she has produced. It makes a wonderful “first impression” for visitors to my shop. Bravo to Erin and swiekysiggies! – JJ Walts & Painted Bull
Just check out the shop Painted Bull!