Laura Dro Designs

Artist Flora Bowley

2012-02-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I am back from a little vacay which was much needed! It's cold here in Chicago, I needed some sunshine!

I want to first thank everyone for participating in all the giveaways over the past few weeks. I would love to keep doing them, but I am going to take a little break from them. But, I promise promise I will pick them back up soon. So, stayed tuned because it could be some of my new licensed art, some prints from Design Darling or even an original painting that I giveaway. Thanks again!

I wanted to share someone who I discovered and am very much obsessed with. She is an artist working in Portland, OR, Ms. Flora Bowley. She has the most amazing technique and style to her paintings and I love her colors. I have been trying to get new inspiration these days for Surtex and a few commissioned paintings that I am starting. Flora is definitely going on my Pinterest board...the real one here in my studio and my imaginary one online. She does seminars and teaches her techniques and if one came to Chicago, I would be first in line. I think it's awesome that she shares as much as she does, not all artist like to give away their secrets. Flora is all about being in the moment and don't worry what it looks like, just paint. Check out here full portfolio here it goes back several years and you can see how she evolves and develops-love it! What do you like about Flora?

Another Winner!

2012-02-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

Here I am!!! So, the winner of this cute painting is comment #5 (via Random.org) -Kaite Beth, congrats! Katie-email me your address and I will get it in the mail!

Thanks everybody for participating and all the nice comments! I can't wait to share some more artwork with you. Please come back often as I plan on doing more giveaways in the future, hopfully with some of my newly licensed artwork.

Have a great Friday!

Laura

Monday Giveaway Day!!

2012-02-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

Hiya!

Here is the newest print that I am giving away...it's cute and colorful, a great gift for your valentine....yourself:)

All you need to do is....become a follower by clicking on the blue button down on the right that says "Join this Site" and then leave a comment under this post. If you are a follower (thank you very much) just leave a new comment and you're entered! I will randomly pick a winner on Friday! Feel free to leave a comment about anything...something about yourself, Valentines Day, art...whatever you would like.

Thanks so much for participating!

Laura

I <3 bright colors!

Inspiring artwork

2012-02-10T06:51:00.000-08:00

I love the artwork by Stephanie Corfee, she has such a fabulous use of colors and the way she incorporates illustration in her paintings is so unique. They all look so effortless and like she had so much fun making them. She has tons of other artwork to look at here on her website. She also has an etsy shop with prints and orginals for sale.

When is see artists like Stephanie, it reminds me not to think to much about my painting and just let the fun happen. I can't even decide which on is my favorite, but the one with the lighter colors on the easel is catching my eye. Which one do you prefer?!

More winners!

2012-02-09T06:58:00.000-08:00

Well, I have spent the past 30 minutes trying to find a free service that I can post on my blog that generates winners...and no luck. If anyone knows a simple free, generator widget...let me know:)

So, I am using the website researchrandomizer.org.

The comment winner is....#9-Ginger of Ginger Duck in Orange Sauce

The new follower winner is ...#3 Tiffany Leigh of The Designer Lifestyle

Congrats ladies-Email me your info and the artwork is yours!

Don't worry....another next Monday!

Monday Giveaway Day!!

2012-02-06T09:06:00.000-08:00

It's time to do another giveaway! Today I am feeling like I wanna give 2 away...just because it's fun:)

Here is what you need to do, it's super easy...

-If you are not a follower...become one and you could win a piece.

-If you are a follower...leave a comment, about whatever and you can win as well!

I will randomly pick one comment winner and one NEW follower winner on Thursday.

This is the piece of artwork up for grabs! These are prints of the originals but each one is unique because I repaint the pearl metallic paint on top to make it shine. Also, if you know about the blog, Design Darling, you might know that she is launching a online boutique filled with wonderful home decor and accessories which is opening in March. I'm very thrilled to announce that all my fun 8x10 prints will be available for purchase on the Design Darling website! Pretty exciting! But, you can win one for free right now, so good luck friends!

Print and Pattern feature!

2012-02-03T13:36:00.000-08:00

I didn't even realize that my Trendy Tot work was up on one of the best blogs ever! Print and Pattern is the textile/designer go to blog with images of...well prints and patterns, my fave:) To my surprise, this was up today and I just now saw it! Hop on over to the Print and Pattern blog and see the post!

The author of Print and Pattern, or Bowie Style, has a great book out in stores all about the best designs. I would love to get stuff in that book one day!

I'll be in my studio studio...up up up in the studio studio

2012-02-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a few pictures of my office/studio workspace. I always find it fun to see other artists space and what they have going on. I was recently commissioned to do a large abstract painting and have complete control over what to do! It's very exciting just to let loose and create something I like. This painting is a study to get the creativeness flowing for the big painting. I am in love the colors in this painting, but the large one will be mostly blues. I'll be posting this one for sale in my etsy shop when I'm finished.

Oh, and if the title of this post rings a bell...it's from Sponjetta remember her?...I can't believe I know the song you must watch Sponjetta sing about her studio studio. She even does a remake with Nick Cannon and T Payne...it's not that bad;) It just shows to stick with what you like to do and you never know-haha!

Have a great day!

Laura

winner winner chicken dinner

2012-02-02T06:27:00.000-08:00

The winner of my first giveaway is....Sarah of flourish design + style.

Congrats, I'll be sending you this lovely piece!!!!

I'm having some trouble posting the generator thingy, I'll be using something different next Monday.

Stick with me through the week...I will let you in on the next piece I'm giving away! Thanks to all for participating:)

Have Fun!

Laura

Stuff I'm working on...

2012-01-31T14:04:00.000-08:00

It's time to start some new collections. I have a ton of artwork that I've been working on in the computer over the last few months. Surtex will be here before you know it, so I'm dedicating a few weeks to get all my new patterns together. Not sure if the above patterns will be one collection or the start of others? What do you think of the color palettes? Any your fave?

Don"t forget to like me on my Facebook page and you could win the painting below!!! I will announce it on Thursday.

Have Fun!
Laura

Monday Giveaway Day!!

2012-01-30T06:16:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

I was so thrilled with the response of the Design Darling giveaway, that I decided to do another one right here! Yup, I think I am going to declare the next few Mondays as giveaway day here on my blog...that is if I can get participants:) Here are the details:

To win this cute, colorful and fun painting, click on my Facebook link in the top right hand side and then click "Like" button on my Facebook page. That's it! I will randomly select a winner on Thursday!

Have Fun!!!

Laura

Congratulations Paislea! Another giveaway Monday

2012-01-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

This past Monday on Design Darling, I was so thrilled to do a giveaway with Mackenzie...she just announced the winner on her blog:

Congrats to Paislea Elyse of Allister Bee!! The painting is on the way-enjoy!

Thanks everyone for joining in on the giveaway, all the comments were so encouraging that I am doing another one right here!!! Yup, come back Monday morning for the details and to see which painting will be up for grabs!

Until then, here is a new painting that will be up in the etsy shop. It's an original, so there is only one...but more combos to come. Also, I can take requests for custom color palettes. Loving the pictures of other bold paintings in bright rooms, so cute!

Laura Dro Designs-etsy

Simply Irresistible Designs


From House & Home

Have Fun!

Laura

Metallic Zebra print and Cute chair paintings

2012-01-20T08:20:00.000-08:00

Alongside the small 8x10 paintings...(more colors coming soon)! I have been obsessed with painting cute chairs and large zebra prints with metallic paint. I have many more color combos in the works and can't wait to share. Don't forget to follow so you can win a small painting!!

Don't forget to follow me!

2012-01-15T23:10:00.000-08:00

Become a follower and you'll have a chance to win one piece of artwork!! But, only if you follow!!

The colors are metallic gold, pinks, oranges, and yellows. They look great on a wall that needs a pop of color. Also, they fit perfectly into an 11x14 frame with a matte-actual size of artwork is 8x10. The modern, chic, and unique artwork will brighten your day and room!! Stay tuned for more details on the giveaway!

New paintings...future give aways!

2012-01-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

A few color studies on 8x10 canvas paper, larger paintings to come! And, also a picture of the cutest little dog-Tilly.

Please remember if you stop by to become a follower!! I will be doing a huge give away with some of these paintings and others along with Trendy Tot prints, but only if you become a follower. Come back often because I will be posting the details of the give away soon! I have about 10+ pieces of artwork to give out!!

Ikat painting

Chevron painting, floral watercolor

My little cutie watching me all day. She is so tired here because she got to play in the snow all day.

Loving Blue

2012-01-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

Naomi Stein

Ashley Whittaker

Kristen Kraston

These beautiful, stunning and over the top interiors are so fantastic...wish I had more space for crazy wallpaper. Loving the blues and the bold patterns...that zebra never goes out of style, never thought a blue zebra could be so cute! I found them at one of my favorite blogs, Design Darling in the interiors section. Below the pics are each designers and a link to their website.

Have Fun,
Laura

Hello 2012...how are you?

2012-01-03T19:24:00.000-08:00

I am pretty excited about 2012! I can't wait to share all the new artwork I've been hiding up my sleeve! There are so many things to come in the next few months, I wish I had 10 hands to make it all now. Or better yet, I wish I could skip sleeping for a week and still feel amazing and have everything ready to go for you.

My favorite items I got this Christmas...my Wacom Bamboo Create Drawing Tablet and new Camera. I have been putting these to good use and soon you will be able to purchase original paintings (small and large), stationery, silk screen pillows (ohhhahhhh) and other cute, fun, and creative stuff. Plus, on top of all that, I will have new patterns that I will be showing at Surtex this May...stay tuned and don't forget to be a follower. Below, I created the top pattern and peacock pattern with my Wacom.

Check out some of my other work here

Have Fun!

Laura

Something bright and beautiful!

2011-12-02T08:29:00.000-08:00

Even though it's getting cold outside. My heart is still with the spring. The blog Ada and Darcy always makes my day brighter! Here are some of my favorite pics. Trying to remember these images as I put my layers on to walk my dog.

Back to work-new art

2011-11-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

After a great time visiting in family in Florida, where the weather was perfect, I'm back into the swing of things and busy busy. It's crazy to think I am already preparing for another trade show, I'm still trying to figure out how to make the most of the last one. Anyway, just wanted to post some new drawings and watercolors. They aren't quite finished or into repeating patterns, but that will be another to do. Don't forget to check out my Etsy shop, Trendy Tot Art, where you can get 25% off through the holidays with coupon code HOHOHO! Only if you're nice!

Trendy Tot Art

2011-11-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

Trendy Tot Art….Art for cool babies and tots. Trendy Tot Art is for babies and Tots who wear black and do baby yoga. Trendy tots have really cool parents.

Only available here

Sketchbook Story Feature!!

2011-10-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

Check out my sketchbook story from Cindy Ann of BluPenny here! Cindy Ann was my neighbor at Surtex and she is a fabulous licensing artist. Once a month, Cindy Ann has a post from different artists about how they create and sketch their ideas. As an artist, it's always nerve-racking to post a final piece, but the rough sketches that created the piece are usually some of my favorites! It's so interesting to here the stories behind different artists and to see their process. I was thrilled when she asked me to do a sketchbook story and I love what she posted! Check it out and let me know what you think!

Thanks Cindy Ann!

New Direction?

2011-09-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to incorporate my paintings into my patterns and designs, but never really could pin point how I wanted to do that! Acrylics are my favorite to paint with but, mostly for landscapes. I think I can create more interesting colors and shapes with watercolors when designing for textiles or repeats. So, I have been playing around for awhile, honing in on what I like and these are a few of my favorites...I probably have about 25 more that I have to get into the computer. Then play around in Photoshop and see what I can create. What do you think? Do you see something you like, if so, what!?

Have a great day!

I spy so many patterns from these 4 paintings!! Here is one below....

I guess you could say I like bright colors.

Zazzle store!

2011-09-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

I just spent the past week creating my Zazzle store. After much headache trying to find the most cost effective way to create my stationery for others, I discovered how great Zazzle really is! Notice my stationery scrolling on the right hand side ---------->

At my Zazzle store you will find customizable stationery, thank you cards and other fun designs and artwork to come. I plan on posting paintings that you can buy as a poster or on a canvas. I will also have wedding invitations, baby announcements, save the dates, holiday cards and maybe some canvas bags as well!! But, it takes some time to organize so right now there is just fun stationery....check out my store here. Let me know what you think, I would love to know what you think of the designs!

ADA AND DARCY, SAMPLE SALE!

2011-07-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

I don't want anyone to miss out on the Ada and Darcy sample sale, you can save up to 60% off! Skip on over to their blog and website here for more information. If you have never seen the cute home decor website, you're missing out but, I'm so happy to inform you!

IN LOVE WITH...

2011-07-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Or I guess I am a little obsessed. These are images from Europe's Living Etc and this months House Beautiful. I am constantly tearing out magazine pages of images that catch my eye. Sometimes they sit in the drawer, but I think I will start posting my favorite ones. That's all anyone really looks at these magazines for anyway. The bedroom will be mine one day....love it!

EUROPE TRIP!

2011-07-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

I didn't have a chance to let everyone know about my fantastic European trip that I was taking this summer

All my focus was on Surtex that it snuck up on me. I was able to spend a week in Greece and a week in

France. Let me tell you that it was the most fantastic experience ever! I visited so many inspiring and

beyond beautiful places that my mind is on overload with where I want to start! Even though I started in

Greece, on an island called Sykantos (where my family is from) I am going to show these few pics

of my favorite store from Paris since it's fresh on my mind. If you have never heard of Laduree, they make

the most adorable little macaroons in the most unique colors, but their store is like walking into a magical

place with the cutest packaging and colors...I really could not believe how adorable it was. Here are a few

images of what you can find and also visit the website here which is so fun to look at.

FUN WITH LABELS

2011-06-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

I was so happy when my sis in law wanted to make cute labels for her wedding invitations-more fun for me. They are such a fun way to add more design to your invitations!! www.enveloperinc.com has amazing shapes and sizes of labels and seals with templates you can download. Put the label on a dark or bright colored envelope and it will really impress people! I would love to get one in the mail, and I can't wait to get these that I made...

The return address on the left will fold around to the back, we are putting it on a navy metallic envelope. It's going to be adorable-can't wait to post a pic of the complete wedding invitation set that we did, it's so adorable and fun-just like her!!

CANDICE OLSEN IS A DESIGN GENIUS!

2011-06-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

If you're like me and have HGTV pretty much on a steady stream on your television set, than you know all about Candice Olsen's gorgeous designs! She is, hands down, my favorite interior decorator out there! If you've never seen her put together a room, you're missing out on some of the most beautiful spaces in the world! I just had to share one of my favorite bedroom rehabs she's ever done! She took a pretty dismal and haphazard room and turned it into a thing of beauty! I would do anything to have my master bedroom look so glamorous and serene! Take a look at the incredible transformation and be sure to visit HGTV.com for all things Candice!

MONOGRAMMED COASTERS BY CAROLINE SIMAS

2011-06-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

My neighbor at Surtex, "Sweet Caroline....dadada", has these adorable coasters out now from Costerstone! There are so many colors and options, I don't know which one to choose! But, the Roses on Chocolate are the ones that I am buying, wait-maybe Delightful Diamonds...or Spring Fling on Citrus-I don't know, they are all cute! I just came home from a weekend of wedding showers for my sis-in-law and I think these would make a great hostess gift for anyone! So, skip on over to her blog here because Caroline is doing a give away with the coaster if you leave a comment on her blog, and you don't want to miss it!

http://carolinesimas.blogspot.com/

Adore Magazine

2011-06-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

I adore Adore magazine! It has such beautiful and inspirational pictures. For me, as a textile designer, it is a great resource for what is in style and what styles are changing. The new issue is out and free right now online and you can purchase back issues for super cheap. Adore home magazine was founded and created by Loni Parker and inside the magazine you'll find beautiful homes from across the globe, tips and design advice from experts. Check out the new issue here

BELLA MUMMA

2011-05-26T05:52:00.000-07:00

PHEW! I'm finally starting to have a couple of free moments now that the afterflow of an amazing first Surtex showacse is slowing down a bit! As always, I was cruising the blogosphere and came across this eclectic and cheery interior design inspiration, posted by BellaMumma! This girl has some GREAT posts that I just love to comb through! This one, in particular, is so perfect for Spring/Summer, with it's turquiose and orange elements! Enjoy the pictures and be sure to visit BellaMumma!

Photos courtesy of BellaMumma.com

I think that some throw pillows of my Carolina Collection prints would be perfect for this room =) What do you think?

LauraDroDesigns.com

MORE SURTEX

2011-05-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

Follow up, follow up, follow up....that is all that's on my mind! Finishing Surtex was such a relief, but that's only half the battle. Here are more pictures of what my little 8x10 booth was like. We learned, after day 2 of set up when every single piece of paper fell, that there is only one kind of adhesive to use. Don't ever buy sticky glue-dots, they don't work. Everyone said that my booth looked like a little bed with a headboard, which I didn't even mean to do! I would love to get some bedding in the stores though-so I guess that was a happy accident:)! Have a great day!

SURTEX 2011!

2011-05-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

Surtex was so amazing, it was all that I expected and more! I had the most fantastic ladies next to me who were so sweet and helpful. I met several people that I am excited to hopefully work with and find new opportunities to create some wonderful products with! I wanted to put a photo of my booth to show all the hard work that my husband, Ali, and I put into the show. Thanks for the support from everyone!

Check out Caroline Simas of Mulitple Blessings here

Also, Cindy Ann's blog BluePenny here

Thank you ladies for all the wonderful help!

POLYVORE!

2011-05-11T12:28:00.000-07:00

I have just now realized that I have yet to share one of my very very favorite sites in the entire universe - POLYVORE!! Polyvore is one of the coolest sites out there for everything fashion related. They tell you the latest trends, the chicest celebrities, what they're wearing, where to buy it, etc. It's pretty much fashion heaven! I, personally, love all things Bohemiam (in more of a - "I wish I could pull this off" - sort of way). So, I wanted to share this great maxi dress I found on the site today. The pattern is gorgeous! I can't wait until Surtex so I can possibly have one of my designs on something like this! ENJOY!

May hippie* by cano 315 featuring turquoise jewelry

DESIGN FLAVR

2011-05-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

Design Flavor is a great resource for any artist out there. They have great pieces from any genre, period, theme, etc. you can think of. I love browsing the site for inspiration or just to see new masterpieces! They have a new daily design every morning, that I love checking first thing! Have you ever been to DesignFlvr?

TRUE UP BLOGGER WRITES BOOK!

2011-05-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite, artsy bloggers has written her very own book! Kimberly Kight, from TrueUp, has written a how-to guide to fabric design, aptly entitled "A Field Guide to Fabric Design". I cannot explain how happy I am for her and our community as a whole, that one of us would get a book deal to share our talents and experiences! Check out TrueUp, daily, for Kim's fabulous posts and go pre-order her book on Amazon. Congrats Kim!

HOME TEXTILES TODAY!!!!

2011-05-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

I was so thrilled that Home Textiles Today, along with several other great websites, read my press release and wrote a little bit about me! Click here to read the full release.

Below is a sneak peak of a few of my digital mock-ups for tabletop that are available for licensing! I wanted to make bold flowers that were very brush-strokey (for lack of a better word). I hope they are well recieved at Surtex-crossing my fingers! They are based off a series of acrylic floral paintings I did.

I am getting so excited for Surtex, not really that nervous suprisingly! I can't wait to meet everyone and learn more about all the other artists-stop by and say hello!

SUMMER CRUSH COLLECTION & MALIBU WEDDING

2011-04-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

If you are one of many girls from the ages of 4 - 94 who wants to get married someday, you MUST check out StyleMePretty! The site has pretty much every different kind of wedding you can think of and every single one is so gorgeous, from whimsical to glamorous! While I was surfing the site today (who knows why a married woman would still look at wedding photos!), I came across a fabulously funky wedding in Malibu! I couldn't help but think that some of my designs from my Summer Crush collection would've gone perfectly with their motif. Not to toot my own horn, but I think it could've been cool =) Anyway, check out the page for this Colorful Malibu Wedding, with photography by Rob Greer and tell me what you think!

ATLANTIC-PACIFIC

2011-04-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

I was recently turned on to a San Francisco merchandiser's blog by a friend and cannot seem to go a day without looking at it for fashion inspiration now! Her name is Bee and she has some of the greatest styles and pieces around and mixes and matches them with perfection! I'm loving the trend of wearing different prints together so much right now (I mean obviously, I am a print artist)! Most of us don't have the cash to throw down on designer pieces, but Bee shows you how to spend money on classic staples and mix and match with much cheaper items! One of my personal favorites of the pictures below is the polk-a-dot and leopard mix! I can just picture some of the prints from my Paris in Bloom collection on a beautiful, flowy blouse under one of her many layers! Enjoy the pictures and be sure to check out ATLANTIC-PACIFIC!

FEATURED ON PRINT & PATTERN!

2011-04-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

One of my favortie blogs, www.printandpattern.blogspot.com that always has new designers and fun, new textile patterns posted some of my work! I am so thrilled because I look at her blog everyday and it was the first place I discovered art lincensing. Thanks so much for posting my work! Check it out-

BETZ WHITE

2011-04-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Going along with the Atom Art Bowl motif...True Up posted some really nice and simple mod patterns from Betz White's second organic fabric collection. Here's a link to Betz White's Etsy page - http://www.etsy.com/shop/betzwhite - Enjoy!

Just one sample of the awesomely clean and effortless collection...

ATOM ART BOWL

2011-04-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

I'm just in love with this new set of bowls from Anthropologie!! They're called Atom Art Bowl and I think they're so cute...why couldn't I think of that?!?!

www.anthropologie.com/atomartbowl

500 DAYS OF SUMMER LOVELINESS!

2011-04-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

I'm back, solely for the purpose of telling you that if you have yet to watch 500 Days Of Summer than you haven't lived! It is, hands down, one of my favorite movies ever! Not only is it a great story, about Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel (two of my absolute favs), but the style/patterns/sets/look of the entire movie are super vintage chic! Zooey's character's apartment is one that I would die to live in...complete with toile wallpaper, cool furniture, and funky little touches everywhere! Check out this blog, dedicated to sharing 500 Days of Summer inspiration...it's pretty awesome!

500 Days of Inspiration Blog

AWESOME ADVICE FOR SURTEX ATTENDEES!

2011-04-01T06:15:00.000-07:00

This year will be the first that I showcase my art at Surtex! I cannot stop thinking about how I'm going to approach my booth...it haunts me at all hours of the day and night! Naturally, you want to give the perfect presentation and become an overnight sensation!! Okay, maybe not overnight sensation, but you get my drift! So, after experiencing much anxiety, excitement, and pretty much every emotion you can think of running through my head, I was ecstatic to come across this little blog entry on the Surtex Official Blog! This mother and daughter combo shared some great tips and advice on how to approach your first time at the show! This really helped me out, so I hope it helps you out, too! Special thanks to Cathy and Ellen Heck for sharing such a wonderful post!

GOSSIP GIRL FASHIONS AND FABRICS!

2011-03-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

Naturally, as an art lover and fanatic, I can't get enough of all of the wonderful textures and prints used on Gossip Girl! Just when Sarah Jessica Parker's bold ensembles came to a disappointing end, up pop good ol' Serena and Blair! Here are two of my favorite looks from this season. I'm absolutely gaga over the sheer elements and wonderful structure of Serena's Pucchi dress! If only we could all afford to be draped in high couture 24/7. Kuddos to GOSSIPGIRLFASHION.NET (you can find the exact garments they're wearing on the website)!!

GREEEEEEEN!!

2011-03-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

So, I know it's not the most original post in the world but I just had to put up some awesome greeness that I found, in honor of St. Patty's Day! The holiday is coming right on time too because, supposedly, green is the new purple!!

http://www.westelm.com/products/spanish-glass-wine-bottle-vases-a910/?pkey=c25-under

http://www.potterybarn.com/stylehouse/rooms/WIN11-BD-14.html

http://www.zgallerie.com/p-5562-like-everybody.aspx

http://www.thefashionpolice.net/2009/01/going-green-the.html

I just had to add one of my designs from my upcoming Summer Crush Collection!

CUTE PLATES

2011-03-12T22:27:00.000-08:00

I found these plastic plates on My Clean Plate Club, you can customize your plate by picking a background and adding your name, monogram or a letter! They have really cute selections for kids as well. It would make a great housewarming present for someone! I want some of those cute trays. Check out the website here

STRIPES ARE SO RIGHT!

2011-03-09T06:57:00.000-08:00

As of late, I've been having a very intense love affair with stripes! They're trendy and super versatile and I just can't get enough. Here are some great places and things to jazz up with stripes...hope this sends some inspiration your way =)

http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/03/sneak-peek-anne-m-cramer.html/17_amc

http://is-theblog.blogspot.com/

http://www.polyvore.com/get_look_rachel_bilson/set?id=28808903

http://www.elledecor.com/image/room_finder/4411?page=110

http://homeklondike.com/2011/03/04/traditional-hallways-design-ideas/5-traditional-hallways-design-ideas-hallway-with-striped-carpet-on-diagonal/

DIY TUFTED FABRIC HEADBOARD

2011-02-28T12:16:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge fan of all things DIY! Not only is it waaaay cheaper to do things yourself, but you also get exactly what you want out of it and have fun doing it! I've always loved the look of a fabric headboard, but sometimes they look a bit cheap without the added buttons for tufting. Here's an awesome step-by-step DIY article I found on apartmenttherapy.com. Hope you like it!

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/chicago/february-jumpstart-2009-entries/how-to-diy-tufted-headboard-charissas-february-jumpstart-project-2009-076400

SOUTHWESTERN PONCHO!

2011-02-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

This Poncho/Snuggi from Urban Outfitters is amazing! Not only is it such an awesome concept, but the Southwestern print is beautiful and chic! Just wanted to share this with you guys and get your thoughts on it. What do you think about Urban Outfitters new Ponchos? (www.urbanoutfitters.com)

ANTHROPOLOGY COQO FLORAL RUG

2011-02-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

I've always loved Anthropology, but I've always loathed rugs. Rugs are so tricky to me!! You always want them to be not too busy, but not too boring, not too trendy because then you have to change them out every few years, not too bright, but not too drab!! And there never seems to be one rug that can be all of these things...until you go to Anthropology! I just fell in love with this particular print and wanted to share it! Let me know what you think about this rug and about the dreaded quest to find the perfect rug!

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=76300&catId=HOME-RUGS&pushId=HOME-RUGS&popId=HOME&navAction=top&navCount=90&color=041&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&isSubcategory=true&subCategoryId=HOME-RUGS-RECTANGULAR

FRENCH BAROQUE STYLE KITCHEN

2011-02-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

I just HAD to share this gorgeous French Style kitchen that I came across on www.hgtv.com. I know the French look is very in right now, so I will definitely be posting more inspiration pieces like this one! Happy Weekend Everyone!!

Laura

INTRICATE PRINTS ARE THE NEW ANIMAL PRINT!!

2011-02-14T13:26:00.000-08:00

Great news for those of us in the print industy...www.style.com and many others are reporting that wacky prints are going to be all the rage in 2011. Amazing prints were seen all over Europe in pretty much every runway!! Look at this totally busy and awesome print from Philosophy...

KRISTA EWART

2011-02-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

I love the way Krista designs! It's so smart and fresh and clean and preppy...I can go on! It's fun to see all the different uses of patterns and color. No need to be matchy matchy when there are so many fun options. Check out her portfolio of work:

http://www.kristaewart.com/

2011-02-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Because I'm brand spanking new to the blogosphere, I've been checking out tons of other blogs 24/7. During my latest blog-stalking session, I came across one of the coolest things I've seen in a while! If you are sick of trying to find your bookmarks or just want to be able to see the actual page you're looking for then this is totally for you - Pinterest.com! Thank you to littlewillow.com for turning us on to this awesome new tool!

www.pinterest.com

www.littlewillow.com

NEW DESIGNS

2010-12-10T16:32:00.000-08:00

I would love any feedback or inquiries, so feel free to comment!

SOME OF MY WEDDING INVITATIONS

2010-12-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Visit my ETSY PAGE to check out some of my products that are for sale:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mybluediamonddesigns?ref=seller_info

I also have been designing wedding invitations for brides to be (kinda how this whole journey got started) Here are a few samples...feel free to comment and inquire if you are interested in having some made for your own wedding!

This is a cool new site - if your crafty or have a skill related to weddings, you can bid on different jobs:

www.100layercake.com

This website is really unique in the things you can upload, check it out:

www.zazzle.com

Also, don't forget your own talents - I was recently commissioned to do 30 small 10x10 paintings for employee Christmas presents. They have been a huge undertaking, but it's nice to get an end of the year bonus. I will post picture of them soon!

SURTEX IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!!!

2010-11-12T07:42:00.000-08:00

6 MONTHS!!! I have 6 months to the biggest 3 days of my life! I am exhibiting at the Surtex Art Licencing Trade Show in NYC!!! I have never done a trade show, but I feel I have some great ideas and designs to present to buyers/manufacturers. I am about 75% done with my portfolio - I have several designs in my sketch book that are incomplete, but in my head I already know what everything looks like. It feels good to have a clear feeling for everything - now I just need to make it happen. I have researched, researched and researched everything about this little industry for that past year or so and I am ready to just do it!!!

Here is one design I made - it still needs a few finishing touches, but I like where it's heading!..do you?

Check out Surtex and what it's all about, you will be hearing much more about my journey to NYC!

SOME OF MY WORK

2010-10-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things I have designed in the past. Just a sneak peak of what Laura Dro Designs does! The first photo is a digital sample of some stationery I designed for a client. The next is a painting I did of Michigan Avenue at night in acrylics-sorry, sold it on Etsy. It was one of my favorite paintings. Next, is a digital sample of a save-the-date followed by some children's personalized stationery. The last image is a sketch that will be the start of one of my lines for Surtex. I drew it by hand in my sketchbook then scanned it into Illustrator.

Have a great weekend!
-Laura

FIRST POST OF MANY!!

2010-10-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

Hello! I know there are about 4 people in the world that know about my new blog - but I am glad you do! I guess this is the start of something I have been working towards for the past year or so? Maybe I have been working towards it all my life-I don't know? I offically launched Laura Dro Designs, LLC about 2 months ago and I am preparing for the Surtex Art Licensing show in May-Yeah! Very excited/overwhelmed/nervous/freaking. I am feverishly working on my portfolio of designs that will hopefully be picked up by-well, any company that loves them as much as I do! Rugs, fabric, dinnerware, wallpaper, decorative art, bedding, stationary....I love it all and hope that my designs will grace the shelves one day of some of my favorite stores:) To start, I am going to post images that are inspiring to me as I am creating everything and then as Surtex nears, I will reveal my work! So, check back often and hopefully I can figure out how to make this hard work pay off! Any tips for first time business owners are welcome-especially in the marketing area!

-Laura

Laura Dro Designs

Artist Flora Bowley

Another Winner!

Monday Giveaway Day!!

Inspiring artwork

More winners!

Monday Giveaway Day!!

Print and Pattern feature!

I'll be in my studio studio...up up up in the studio studio

winner winner chicken dinner

Stuff I'm working on...

Monday Giveaway Day!!

Congratulations Paislea! Another giveaway Monday

Metallic Zebra print and Cute chair paintings

Don't forget to follow me!

New paintings...future give aways!

Loving Blue

Hello 2012...how are you?

Something bright and beautiful!

Back to work-new art

Trendy Tot Art

Sketchbook Story Feature!!

New Direction?

Zazzle store!

ADA AND DARCY, SAMPLE SALE!

IN LOVE WITH...

EUROPE TRIP!

FUN WITH LABELS

CANDICE OLSEN IS A DESIGN GENIUS!

MONOGRAMMED COASTERS BY CAROLINE SIMAS

Adore Magazine

BELLA MUMMA

MORE SURTEX

SURTEX 2011!

POLYVORE!

DESIGN FLAVR

TRUE UP BLOGGER WRITES BOOK!

HOME TEXTILES TODAY!!!!

SUMMER CRUSH COLLECTION & MALIBU WEDDING

ATLANTIC-PACIFIC

FEATURED ON PRINT & PATTERN!

BETZ WHITE

ATOM ART BOWL

500 DAYS OF SUMMER LOVELINESS!

AWESOME ADVICE FOR SURTEX ATTENDEES!

GOSSIP GIRL FASHIONS AND FABRICS!

GREEEEEEEN!!

CUTE PLATES

STRIPES ARE SO RIGHT!

DIY TUFTED FABRIC HEADBOARD

SOUTHWESTERN PONCHO!

ANTHROPOLOGY COQO FLORAL RUG

FRENCH BAROQUE STYLE KITCHEN

INTRICATE PRINTS ARE THE NEW ANIMAL PRINT!!

KRISTA EWART

PINTEREST

NEW DESIGNS

SOME OF MY WEDDING INVITATIONS

SURTEX IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!!!

SOME OF MY WORK

FIRST POST OF MANY!!