paperbicycle

Lovely Rain

2012-02-09T09:29:00.001-06:00

Today's cute Valentine comes from our good friend Isara! I don't know if it's her adorable new baby, or maybe it's her always-charming and talented husband Chris, but something has her in the mood for love!

Download a printable version here for your loved one! Thanks Isara!

Paper Bicycle Printables: 'Owl Always Love You'

2012-02-08T09:23:00.000-06:00

I recently heard in a trend report that owls are most definitely still in this year! (a moment of silence for the trends that didn't make the cut - aka cupcakes) That's great for me though, because few other animals work this well for a pun. Whoo-Whoooo will you give this super cute Valentine to?

You can download the printable version here to make a 5.5 x 4.25 inch folded card!

Paper Bicycle Printables: I Choo-Choo Choose You!

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

In keeping with my Animal Valentine theme I thought I'd throw a reptile...and a train into the mix. When I think of cheesy love cards the phrase "I choo-choo choose you" always comes to mind, mostly because of The Simpsons. Does anyone remember the card Ralph gives to Lisa for Valentines? You guessed it - it's a train card! The best train card, in fact...until now.

You can download a larger size of this image from here, you know - for a DIY (aka last minute) Valentine greeting. Enjoy!

Los Angeles: CHA 2012

2012-02-03T12:29:00.000-06:00

This past weekend Lindsay, Francesca, and Alyssa made the trek to Los Angeles, CA to attend the 2012 CHA show. It was great to trade the cold, grey Minneapolis weather for sunny skies and temperatures fluttering in the high 70's for a weekend. Although we're glad to be home, after our trip we can definitely understand why people brave the earthquakes, mudslides, and crazy natural disasters to live on the golden coast. Here are a few snapshots from our fantastic weekend:

We don't have any pictures from our first day in Cali, but we spent Friday eating delicious New Orleans fare at The Grove Farmer's Market, cruising up and down Melrose, and snatching up all the awesome treasures downtown in Little Toyko. It was a long, but awesome day that got us geared up for the rest of the weekend.

One of the main goals of the trip was to eat as much delicious, fresh Cali food as possible. Originally we had planned to break down the three main meals into a bunch of smaller meals throughout the day to maximize our eating potential. This task proved to be harder than expected. As witnessed by those MASSIVE salads above - some meals were hard to resist. Our lunch from Monster Salad was super delicious (and healthy) paired with kale lemonade, and cucumber mint lemonade.

After lunch (and second lunch) we made our way to Santa Monica beach. The views of the pier from the beach were breathtaking, and because it was a beautiful Saturday afternoon the entire neighborhood was buzzing with people.

We had fun exploring the beach, playing on the beach, and dipping our toes into the surf. We also had the chance to explore underneath the pier which was amazing. It was really fascinating to see all the barnacles growing up the side of the pillars, and the light was so beautiful it made it feel as if we were walking within a painting.

We closed the day out riding the ferris wheel in Pacific Park. We timed our ride perfectly with the sunset, and the lighting up of all the rides on the pier.

Overall it was an awesome trip, and addition to our time spent wandering the streets of LA we had a great time at the CHA show talking to a bunch of great companies. Everyone is glad to be back in Minneapolis, but now we're super fueled up for our trip to NYC in May!

Paper Bicycle Printables: 'Love Doesn't Grow on Trees' Valentine

2012-02-01T10:06:00.000-06:00

Maybe you like your romance a little more somber and grey? Then have I got the Valentine's Day card for you!

Download a full-scale, printable one your for sweetie here!

Paper Bicycle Printables: 'Infinite Love' Valentine

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

"Similar to my love for donuts - my love for you is infinite". If that's not true love folks, I don't know what is! Continuing on my holiday/sweets theme I decided a donut card was essential to my printable collection. Now I'm hungry...

The printable version of this card makes a 4"x6" folded card! If you print it on some heavier card stock it will look super pro! I promise!

Download the printable version here, and share this donut greeting with your friends!

Paper Bicycle Printables: 'Nuts About You' Valentine

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

It's not quite February yet, but Valentine's Day is lurking right around the corner. It's two weeks away, and although I'll admit - I totally forgot January had 31 days - it's never too early to start getting your Valentines affairs in order.

I thought it would be super fun to offer printable Valentine's Day images over the course of the next two weeks. It's easy and fun to share greetings with your friends and loved ones when a super cute card is only a click away!

You can download the printable version here. Feel free to share it with the world!

Awesome Entries & Winner of the JANUARY PATTERN CONTEST!

2012-01-27T12:10:00.001-06:00

It's that time again! Time to showcase the entries, and lucky winner, for the first Pattern Contest of the new year! Special thanks to everyone who participated for taking the time to make these excellent patterns! It's always hard to choose a winner and this month was no different!

This month's topic was Food, and it's pretty obvious the majority of people are split into two camps; sweets and veggies! That's cool, I'll take 'em both!

Without further ado, let's announce the winner!

Congratulations to Rebecca Greenwood for making these three awesome patterns! They're all super cute and deserving of praise, but my personal favorite is the orange themed one! So let's call that the winner! See more of Rebecca's excellent work on her site and give her a big round of virtual applause!

But of course it was a hard decision because we had a lot of great patterns submitted this month! So let's check them out!

Heather Tubwon knows the secret to our hearts at Paper Bicycle; Cupcakes! Looks tasty, although I wonder what some of those cupcake flavors are! See more of Heather's work at her site!

Cupcakes were a popular food in this contesnt, and Anne M Bray bring makes an excellent contibution with this super cute pink number! See more wonderful work at her blog!

Previously featured Anna Rodighiero has a very sweet tooth, because pure marshmallow in fluff-form is about as sweet at it gets! The color on this one is just icing on the cake! You can find out more on Anna's website and blog!

Previous Featured Guest Emily Muschinske sent in not one but two super cute, fruit themed-patterns! You can see her work at her website and follow her on twitter @emilymuschinske. Also (and this is super exciting) she's now offering art courses!

Abbey Freundschuh brings more of the cupcake love with this dessert-inspired pattern, but she doesn't discriminate! All desserts are welcome! Check out tons of great work on Abbey's website!

Alexander Bielovich titled his pattern "Mystery Ingredients" so I'm not so sure I'd want to eat whatever it is. But I sure like it anyway! Super colors! Check out Alexander's portfolio!

Good to see some people are thinking healthy! Emily Harris represents the power of the veggie with her gardentime pattern! See more on her site and get inspired on her blog!

Whoa! It's a childhood dream in this this bright, super-fun, sugary-rush of a pattern by Tammie Bennett! See a lot more work on her site and follow her on twitter @tammiebennett!

Melanie Schultz sent two awesome patterns this month and proves a person can appreciate all types of food. From light, fresh and delicious sushi to comforting, greasy fries. Be sure to check out Melanie's site and her ambitious blog!

Thanks again to everyone that entered! We're proud to show off your work! And be on the lookout for the announcement of our next contest shortly!

Daily Pattern : Old Green Eyes

2012-01-26T01:10:00.000-06:00

Ah yes. I can't believe it's already Thursday. How the heck did this week pass us so fast? It seems like just yesterday it was the beginning of January, doesn't it? Time flies when you're having fun.

Thinking about time also reminds me of something my dad always says:

"You get more done when you're busy."

You like that quote? Me too. If you really think about it, it's totally true. When you've got a to-do list a mile long, there isn't time for dawdling. There's only time for doing. Time for getting things done and doing them fast.

Anyone out there feel like they're running at breakneck speed, too? What do you do to relax? What's your favorite way to gain back a little you time? Traveling? Reading? Watching TV?

This is what I'll call a stream of consciousness pattern. Not sure where it came from or what is going on. This is one of the many ways I get in a little relaxing time. Figures, doesn't it?

Murder: of Crows.

2012-01-23T17:34:00.000-06:00

It's a chilly, grey day. My favorite kind of day. When I look outside it's like I'm seeing a giant fuzzy blanket that's been wrapped around the earth. The sky is low, and everything is desaturated. We're moving soon, and Chris reminded me today that we'll only be in this 6th floor space for another couple weeks.

It's a bittersweet feeling. Change is good, and it's great to think about what is to come when we move into the new place! Still, I'll miss the view. It really is something special.

As I was glancing over my shoulder, I noticed something moving out of the corner of my eye. A HUGE murder of crows was flying past our window for what seemed like an eternity. I've been seeing them perch by the Minneapolis College of Art & Design. Looking like black leaves on the trees. Thousands of them. Just waiting for something.

I apologize for the orientation of this video, but I thought you had to see it. I caught the last couple seconds of this flock -- its crazy. Put you your bifocals and peer in really close to experience the magic. I love these gray winter days.

January Pattern Contest Reminder! Food Patterns!

2012-01-20T13:50:00.000-06:00

Hi there!
If you're still interested in submitting a pattern for our January contest, please do!
We have a little less than a week to get all of our submissions in! Remember, all you have to do is send a pattern over to Chris (at) paperbicycle (dot) com, along with your contact info (blog, site & name!)! We'll post you on the site and put you in the running to win our prize!

So far, you've got a great chance of winning! We've only received a small number of submissions this month, so if you're interested, now's a great time to join us! Good luck and happy pattern-making!!

IlloMN Gallery Show, Painting a little & an Update!

2012-01-20T00:42:00.000-06:00

Wow, it's been a crazy week here at PB. I can't even describe to you the horrors, and the craziness, the laughter and the tears.

A Painting for Llew Mejia by Lindsay Nohl "A night out" -- Acrylic on Hot Press Watercolor Paper

Well --- I GUESS I can... Pretty much we've been scrambling trying to work hard getting ready for a slew of things. We got slammed this week by a ton of awesome new projects at work. Some Print & Pattern, some packaging, some product development, 2 books, and some greeting card revisions, some sketches for toddler clothing... the list goes on and on. Besides that, Francesca and I have been gearing up for a show we're in called IlloMinn 3.

There are a ton of super talented people that are going to be in it, including one of my favorite MN artists, our good friend Andres Guzman.

Today was the drop off date for work, so the last couple of nights have been spent finishing paintings, drawing on Moleskines that are going to be auctioned off, and basically just tying up loose ends with Light Grey Art Lab (our new project).

A detail of his sinister face!

And to top it off, I decided to undertake one MORE project, finishing up a painting I started for my awesome friend Llew. I told him a while back that all I used to paint while I was in college were raccoons eating garbage. So here's an homage to the days of olde. Super excited to get that up there! So, no, it's not a pattern, but you can see a little pattern influence in it for sure!

Whew! What a week!

Repeating Recipe: Monster Cookies

2012-01-16T22:15:00.003-06:00

I've always been a fan of peanut butter cookies. Oatmeal Raisin is pretty boss, too. Chocolate Chip has it's place but it comes in a distant third, I guess.

Argue all you want, you won't change my mind. BUT! Maybe we can come to a compromise? Eh? Why not combine them all into one crazy cookie? A monster cookie, as it were? YES!

I know that back in elementary school (Kegonsa represent!) when it was cookie time, I was always rooting for Monster Cookies! And not even because I liked them better than any other cookie. It was because I was hoping and praying with all my might that this time, THIS TIME, they'd look like real monsters.

Alas, they never looked like anything more than lumpy M&M cookies. Which is why fate forced my hand to make this pattern today.

Front

Reverse

Download the full-size, printable version here!

Repeating Recipes: Mile High Lasagna

2012-01-13T11:56:00.000-06:00

There's nothing more delicious than an Italian dinner, and lasagna is king of foods! It's an easy recipe that produces a ton of food, and a lot of left overs (depending on how many people you decide to share it with).

Download available soon.

HUGE NEWS EVERYONE!

2012-01-12T17:01:00.000-06:00

It's been a long time coming! I wanted to make an official announcement here on the Paper Bicycle Blog! We have been preoccupied for the last 6 months or so while we planned, schemed, organized, and prepared for this!

It's official! We're opening our sister studio : Light Grey Art Lab

The short explanation is : it's a community center for art & design! We'll be holding a variety of workshops, gallery openings, events and travel workshops for the creative community! Have you ever wanted to share your skills? Have a show? Collaborate with other creative types? Well, come on over.

Paper Bicycle and Light Grey Art Lab will share our new space at 118 E 26th Street #101 in Minneapolis! We'll be posting all of our progress on the Light Grey Art Lab blog.
Over the next couple months we'll be organizing a series of shows and looking for new instructors for the Summer months! Hit us up!

Well, that's about it! We'll keep you posted! Thanks for being there for us!!
We are SO excited!

Repeating Recipe: Vegan Taco Non-Meat

2012-01-09T23:52:00.002-06:00

Taco's are a crowd pleaser, who doesn't love a mother freakin' taco?! Jerks, I guess, maybe. Only a jerk would dare to not like tacos.

I came up with this recipe when trying to use up the massive amounts of vegetables we got from our CSA this summer.

I use seitan for the protein but if you're not vegetarian feel free to use anything your heart desires in it's place!

Although I totally recommend the seitan either way, it's probably my favorite protein out there. Specifically Upton's Naturals. It's the best and the packaging is pretty awesome too!

Anyway, throw this mix on a tortilla with all the regular taco fixin's you want and I guarantee it'll be a party in your mouth! A cute taco party!

Front

Reverse

Download the full-size, printable version here!

Repeating Recipes: Happle Bagel Sandwiches

2012-01-07T13:00:00.003-06:00

When I was in second grade, we made a cookbook full of recipes of things that we (as second-graders) could easily make with a little help from our parents. Happle Bagel Sandwiches are a concoction I still turn to in a pinch for a quick and delicious lunch.

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back

Click here for a full sized downloadable recipe card!

JANUARY PATTERN CONTEST : Food Patterns!

2012-01-06T18:57:00.000-06:00

Hey! We're back with our official contests!
Here you go! The official post with an awesome prize!

So! Here you go! Francesca and I actually collaborated on this travel mug design! It was a team effort! And... it could be yours!

We're looking for food themed patterns to post! Send your best (and tastiest) patterns our way to chris (at ) paperbicycle (dot) com by Wednesday January 25th and you'll be in the running to get our prize! Anything and everything edible counts! Be creative, or be silly, or be serious! Anything goes!

Just send us your pattern at 500 pixels wide, along with your contact information on how we can get ahold of you -- plus any links to your website, blog, etc and we'll post you! All entries will be posted at the end of the month and we'll announce our winner that Friday!

Thanks and good luck!! Can't wait to see your patterns! :)

Repeating Recipes: Maryland Crab Dip

2012-01-06T10:52:00.002-06:00

You might be thinking to yourself, "what is this crab dip you speak of?". Well, I'm glad you asked! It's only the most delicious concoction of cheesy, melty, crabby, goodness. It's also a Maryland specialty, and like any Maryland crab dish this recipe contains a healthy dose of Old Bay. I'm not sure if you can find Old Bay in the stores out here in the midwest or in other places in the world, BUT you can buy it online here, so don't fret.

Front

Back

Download the full-size, printable version here!

The Paper Bicycle Guild

2012-01-05T12:32:00.008-06:00

Foe's beware! For an awesome Christmas present, Francesca painted a fantasy Role Playing Game version of everyone at Paper Bicycle! We're a pretty nerdy bunch and picking which fantasy combat class best suits our personality has always been a fun topic of conversation.

Francesca finally took it a step further and created the official Paper Bicycle Guild portrait!

Here's a breakdown of everyone's class.

Lindsay the noble Paladin; a mighty leader who is fierce in combat with her sword and shield but also able to support her compatriots with heals and buffs when needed.

Chris the shadowy Rogue; always lingering in the background waiting to strike with cold, calculated efficiency, Chris' twin blades should always be feared.

Francesca the quiet Hunter; keeping her distance and trained with a quick and accurate bow, her arrows always find their mark. Francesca is also one with nature and friend to her animal brethren.

Alyssa the cunning Mage; conjuring with the power of words and spirit, Alyssa makes up for what she lacks in brawn with charm and magic.

Also present: Noble Peeps the jolly Bard (he's on Lindsay's shoulder), Sir Twinkus the fearsome Orc, Lord Atari the Noble Duke, and Spry Sully the tiny Spite.

Thanks for the awesome present, Francesca! We couldn't have asked for a cooler gift!

PB Studio - Cameo Time

2012-01-04T17:51:00.001-06:00

We took a quick break to take a couple photos. I was sitting here in the corner of the room being blinded by the sunlight that was streaming in the window. I noticed out of the corner of my eye -- from where I sat, my silhouette hit the wall and it looked crisp and perfect! So, here you go! A quick wall-silhouette photo of each one of us! Yeah, we're a little distorted because of the angles, but that'll add a little character!

Alyssa

Chris

Lindsay

Francesca

Hope everyone is having an amazing day!!

Repeating Recipe: Strawberry Spinach Salad

2012-01-03T22:09:00.002-06:00

Some people might crave candy, ice cream or bacon but I crave salads. Some days all I can think about is biting into a crisp, fresh salad and it drives me nuts if I can't find one. The key is that it's got to be an amazing one, which is trickier to find that you might think.

That's why I have a few go-to salad recipes for a pinch and this Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my absolute favorites.

Front

Reverse

Download the full-size, printable version here!

Repeating Recipes : Tomato Basil Soup for Lunch

2012-01-03T02:52:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but I am getting colder by the minute. Winter is harsh over here, and today I splurged for two pairs of long johns and a new coat. Maybe I need a little more meat on my bones? Or maybe I just need to warm up with a good cup of soup when I have the chance.

Today's recipe is one of my very favorite soups. I've chosen to illustrate this recipe, which can be made in both a regular and a vegetarian option. I also happen to think this would be great paired with a quick and dirty grilled cheese sandwich, if you needed a bit of lunchtime variety!

The Front

And the Reverse

Don't forget -- we put the low res versions on the blog, but if you click HERE, you can download the high res version of this recipe card -- which can be printed on a sheet of 8.5 x 11 letter sized paper.

I'm in a soup-y mood this week, so I think I'll be enjoying a bowl of this myself!
Happy eating!

Repeating Recipes: Old Fashioned Doughnuts

2011-12-29T10:57:00.004-06:00

My mom's Grandma Frances used to make these all of the time. She used to bake and cook a lot in general. When it came time to find some recipes I knew what I had to do–get a chair and reach for the highest kitchen shelf where mom keeps the box of old recipes (pretty convenient, visiting the family for the holidays).

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Downloadable Recipe Card Here!

Happy Birthday, Chris!

2011-12-27T23:59:00.000-06:00

Guess who had a birthday today! Our very own Chris Hajny!
Happy birthday, Chris! You are the best!

We had a great night tonight, filled with some of Chris's favorite things, making art, having friends over, playing video games, eating sushi, and making (and eating too much)puppy chow! What more could you ask for?

Chris, this one is for you! You're amazing and we all think so!
Happy Birthday!!

Repeating Recipe: Cucumber Spread on a Salt Bagel

2011-12-27T23:06:00.001-06:00

This recipe for Cucumber Spread is actually from my mom (who was also the inspiration for Lindsay's recipe). Traditionally it's a dip for chips but I'm counting it as a breakfast food because it is sooooo doooope on a salt bagel. You just don't know.

It's simple, it's delicious and it's a family favorite! It's also healthy because it has TWO vegetables in it! Right?

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Reverse

Download a printable version here!

Repeating Recipes : Norwegian Blueberry Breakfast Crepes

2011-12-27T03:24:00.000-06:00

After a long drive on December 23rd, Chris and I finally arrived at his mom's house in Stoughton, Wisconsin. A grueling seven hours after we set off from Minneapolis, we unfolded ourselves from the car, stretched, grabbed our bags, dogs and presents, and wobbled up the stairs to a room filled with the Chris's ever-growing family. There were babies, siblings, pets, and great food there to greet us.

Myra, Chris's mom is wonderful, caring and very into her Norwegian heritage. Her home is decorated with a beautiful collection of Norwegian art, including a wall of intricate Rosemaling paintings.
When I thought if what kind of food to pick for my very first repeating recipe, I skipped some of the first things that come to mind, and went to something a little fun, and a little sweet.

Norwegian Blueberry Breakfast Crepes
I have limited cooking experience with Crepes, but I am a master of eating them. I love crepes of all kinds: sweet AND savory. I figured I'd choose something easy, yet beautiful to share with you! I could eat these by the truckload.

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Reverse

Go ahead! Download a high-res, printable version of the recipe card here!
That way, you can try it out yourself and save a copy in your recipe box!

I found this delightful recipe on Food.com, contributed by a person self-named 'Dreamer in Ontario'. It's easy to use, and delicious!

This sure beats a recipe for Norwegian Lefse, doesn't it!

Repeating Recipes! A New Daily Pattern Project & Contest!

2011-12-27T03:06:00.000-06:00

Are you enjoying the last week of the year? Starting to think about your New Year's resolutions? I am. I haven't quite narrowed them down to something manageable, but I do know that going to bed at a reasonable hour is one of them. Good thing it isn't the first of the year yet. Apparently I'll still continue with my old ways of staying up til 3am and posting on the blog until I absolutely have to change my ways.

So! Without further ado!

For the rest of this year, and up through January 27th, we'll be adding a fun facet to our Daily Pattern Project! As you might have known, all of us went home this weekend to visit our respective families over Christmas and were delighted with home cooked meals, desserts a-plenty, and tons of dishes we haven't tasted in far too long. This month, we want to share some of those flavors with you by doing a whole month of patterns around the topic FOOD.

And for those of your asking about our daily pattern contests? You're in luck and we're starting up our pattern contests again this month on the topic of Food!
Think of your own favorite meals! What kind of edible goodies might you want to turn into patterns?
Watch for the official invite later this week with all the contest details and a photo of this month's prize!

Ok, ok, I'll hurry up and get to bed already.
Hope you're setting more reasonable New Year's resolutions than I am. This habit is going to be a hard one to break!

Merry Christmas from Paper Bicycle!

2011-12-25T02:47:00.000-06:00

In honor of all of the merriment, festivities, and giant gobs of great food, we've decided to post some fun animated gifs to warm your hearts and spread some cheer! Though I wanted so badly to make one earlier this month for Alyssa's Ten Paces and Draw snowglobe project, I JUST got around to doing it -- on Christmas Eve, nonetheless! Every Minute was worth it! Alyssa, Francesca and Chris did such an awesome job on theirs that I wanted to join the fun. So here you go! Merry Christmas to one and all! Enjoy yourselves today! You deserve a wonderful holiday!

Reindeer Dance, by Lindsay Nohl

Christmas Zombie, by Chris Hajny

Home Sweet Home, by Francesca Buchko

Let it Snow, by Alyssa Nassner

PB Studio - Lookin' Sharp. Jacket graphics by Llew Mejia

2011-12-23T23:58:00.000-06:00

Earlier this fall I asked Llew Mejia, a good friend and amazing designer, to design & print me something special, and he totally made the best thing ever. Feast your eyes on our new, sweet exclusive jackets!

Sweet graphic & printing by Llew Mejia, www.peyoteparty.com

I've been waiting to fulfill this fantasy of mine for years. Francesca and I would talk about making Paper Bicycle jackets and wearing them every day. The topic would come up, then fade away, then come up again weeks later, then fade away. Llew finally made this dream a reality, and we've been wearing them every day since we got them.

I can't even tell you how many times people have asked us what the name of our band is

Francesca! Turn around!

Quick! Soak it up! A rare picture of Francesca!

I am in love with these jackets!

Alyssa is the happiest!

Chris and his thug face

Super secret meeting against this wall!

Thanks, Llew! These are the coolest!!

Holiday Ornaments Weekend Monster style...

2011-12-22T22:37:00.005-06:00

Hello to all you Paper Bicycle fans. When Lindsay told me about her paper toy holiday ornaments I couldn't resist! I decided to do double duty with Paper Bicycle ornaments and my own Weekend Monster! challenge...and what would the holiday season be without that classic, blue faced galoot, the Abominable Snow Monster of the North from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

For the monster I used the Teardrop ornament. I added in some arms and legs for a little extra kick.

Download here.

Download here.

For the car I used the Christmas Car ornament. I altered the dieline a little because I figured the "Bumble" would probably be more likely to cruis around in a big arctic snow cat with flames then a family sized car.

Download here.

Happy Holidays everyone!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Candy Coated Deer

2011-12-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

My last sweet ornament for the season - introducing candy-coated deer. He'll be grazing on your licorice lawn while you're out for a spin in your candy convertible.

Download the file here to make your very own!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Hoppy New Year

2011-12-21T10:46:00.001-06:00

When I was in Kindergarden -- all the way up through gradeschool -- I loved bunnies more than anything! My birthday is in March, and every birthday, my friends would gift me stuffed animal bunnies of all sorts. Big ones, little ones and bunnies decorated for Easter -- so many bunnies! I love this shaped ornament, and I was so excited to make one of my favorite animals!

Download the high-res files here!

Maybe some day I'll get a bunny as a pet!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS–Hand Stitched Fox

2011-12-20T13:00:00.003-06:00

Animal ornaments are my favorite! My family's tree has quite a few. When you're a kid, they're basically just toys with strings on the top. Resin, plastic, glass, whatever. When I make these animal ones, I'll use some heavier stock, just in case.

Click here to download the full size!

PB Studio - Cookie Party 2011

2011-12-20T09:37:00.001-06:00

We had our Second Annual Cookie Party at the Paper Bicycle Studio this past Sunday and it was a sugar-coated blast. After hours of slaving over hot stoves, we all filed in and basked in the glory of hundreds of cookies. Some big, some small, some beautiful, some weird blobs. We had cookies up to our eyeballs.

For anyone that's never been to a cookie exchange, here's how it works: You bring a batch to the party, and then you get to take home a MILLION other types of cookies that everyone else has made! We all share cookies (and sometimes we share recipes, too!).

Luke and I are discussing cookie tips while the party begins!

Adam made "Holiday Balls"

Jesse was thrilled by the amount of cookies present

Chris is having a sensual moment with one of his Mexican Wedding Cookies

Bryan is actually having a good time, despite the stink-eye he is giving us

Mary and Ben won the "Most Innovative" cookie award for their Bacon-n-eggs treats! Look at how adorable they are!

Alyssa made TWO delicious types of cookies!

We still had (AND CONTINUE TO HAVE!) piles and piles of cookies left! If you're around the area in the next couple days, send me a note and you should stop over!
We'd love to share the holiday cheer! We can't eat all these ourselves!!

Thanks to everyone that made it out here!
Check out the rest of our photos from the party on Chris's Flickr Set : Here!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS- Dear Reindeer Friend

2011-12-19T13:46:00.003-06:00

This snowy reindeer might look icy cold but don't worry; it's just nature's camouflage! He's actually quite comfy and warm...

Hope everyone has an rad holiday break!

Don't forget to download the high-res printable version and make your own!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Week 4 : Forest Friend

2011-12-16T11:05:00.001-06:00

EDIT : I realized I forgot some cut-lines on the old deer template! This one should be perfect now! Sorry guys! Here you go!

My whole Christmas tree is coated with animal ornaments. I have raccoons, cats, deer, squirrels, foxes, birds, and dogs. I even have a lion and a bear! So, naturally, I wanted to add a furry friend to the pile of paper ornaments!

This will be the final ornament before we start a new pattern project for the New Year, so go ahead! Download the heck out of it, customize it, and definitely send us a picture if you make one!

Click here to download the editable PDF!

Have you had the chance to make an ornament? Send a picture our way (or if you have designed one and want to share it, feel free to send us a high res scan and we can post it for you!) We'd love to see them!

Send your pictures to chris (at) paperbicycle (dot) com along with your name and your contact information!

We'll be choosing our favorite ornament from our submissions after Christmas and I'll send the winner one of our 2012 Calendars! You have a great chance to win! All you need to do is send us a picture! Good luck and Happy folding!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Sweet Ride

2011-12-16T10:37:00.001-06:00

Continuing with my candy Christmas here is a gingerbread car (to park in front of your gingerbread house from my first design). As you can see by it's "soft top" this candy car is actually a convertible.

Download the printable version here! Don't forget to make your own from our template, and if you put any of our ornaments together take a picture, and let us see!

Lookin' forward to the New Year

2011-12-15T12:53:00.000-06:00

We're racing against the clock! The holidays are here and before you know it, it'll be 2012! Alyssa's been working hard on getting our first calendar together! So far, so good!

We're making great strides to get ready for a couple of trade shows in January, and hurrying to get our holiday cards out and these calendars finished! Are you in a rush to finish your last minute projects? Are you still decorating? Making plans for the break? Planning a vacation? You are? Me too. ;P

Also, in other news, I'll be teaching my last class of the Fall semester on Friday! I am so sad it's almost over! This semester went SO fast!! I'm sure I'll shed a tear or two (I'm such a softie). I've got a great surprise planned for those guys (I'll give you a hint -- I'll be surprising them with something delicious!)

Wish me luck - and good luck to you! As we are nearing the final stretch of the year, things will only get crazier!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS- Christmas Feast

2011-12-14T10:30:00.000-06:00

Nothing like bringing home a mouth-watering feast to your family during the Holidays! These mice ain't messing around!

Since it's so tiny and hard to see, here's a detail! I'll make a mock-up soon!

As always, download the printable version!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS–Paper Bicycle Paper Tree

2011-12-13T11:00:00.003-06:00

If I had to haul home tree (by myself), it wouldn't be on the back of a car. That's what the trusty bicycle is for. It might not necessarily be safe to ride around when there's a few inches of snow, but why not strap a small Christmas tree to the back and wheel it home? Throw some lights on there while you're at it!

Downloadable, large version here!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Santa's Sweet Ride

2011-12-12T10:05:00.000-06:00

Santa's gotta go get himself a tree, too, you know. I hear that he gets them from the pre-decorated tree farm. Somewhere in the North Pole they grow a variety of evergreen that comes with lights included! I'm sure Mrs Claus is looking forward to the tree trimming festivities!

Download a high res version here!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Week 3 : Christmas Car Ornament

2011-12-09T10:05:00.002-06:00

Have you ever had the pleasure of riding out with the family and choosing your own tree? Well, now you can either make new memories, or recreate a special time from the past!

Download the full version here!

Enjoy!! If you make one, send it our way! We'd love to see your Christmas car!

Daily Pattern: Down with the Sickness

2011-12-09T01:17:00.004-06:00

Topic: Health

It's winter now and the dread disease to the Paper Bicycle office this year. Alyssa seems to have dodged the bullet (so far) but everyone else has gotten really, horribly ill in the past few weeks.

And not just a little sick. The kind of sick where all you can do is lie in bed, stare at the ceiling and silently beg for a merciful reprieve.

If you took a microscope to my desk looking for germs I'm sure you'd find this pattern (hint: the sickness is the green part).

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Holiday Donuts

2011-12-08T10:39:00.001-06:00

Continuing with my "Sweet Christmas" theme here is a delicious donut duo! I love donuts more than anything in the world - and surprisingly they're somewhat of a Holiday trend this year. If you're thinking to yourself (as you should be) "one donut just isn't enough" you can diversify your decor with these other sweet ornaments.

You can download the ornament here! If you happen to make this, or any of the other ornaments - please take a picture and send it our way!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS- Santa Cat

2011-12-07T14:13:00.003-06:00

Santa Cat is like regular Santa, except he's smaller and more aloof.

This Santa Cat is based off our cat Zeus, who also has a luxurious beard.

Download the printable version!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS–Winter Frame

2011-12-06T12:55:00.007-06:00

I'm not especially fond of having my picture taken, but I'm beginning to realize that there are definitely pros to having a collection of photos. How else are you supposed to keep track of memories?
Now I know the preferred photo-storage ritual is Facebook, but here's a decorative alternative custom-made for this holiday season. Just snap a couple photos of your favorite people and craft away.

Here's the full, downloadable version!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Double Decker Snowflake

2011-12-05T12:06:00.001-06:00

I'm visiting my parents in Mequon, Wisconsin today and am having a great time. We've spent plenty of hours talking about business, countless hours discussing housing, and even more hours making crafty things together. It's great to be home for a day. I love these guys. Plus, as a bonus, I'm getting to spend some time with my brother, Brian. He's hilarious and super fun to be around. I miss everyone here. Someday maybe we'll all live closer together.

So, tonight, after working on some other more secret projects with my mom, (don't worry, I'll share those with you guys later!) I sat down to make my ornament! Here's a double-decker snowflake for you! The only thing that would make this time any better is if I could get rid of this ridiculous, nagging cough. I blame you, Chris & Francesca!!! >:O Seems like all we're doing is trading illnesses! Alyssa, you're next!

Download the high res, 8.5 x 11" letter sized version here!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Week 2 : Octagon Ornament

2011-12-02T13:36:00.002-06:00

We're on to week 2! Can you believe it's already December? I guess it's getting cold enough, right? (Well, here in Minnesota, at least). Today I've got the launch of our second awesome foldable, customizable ornament for you! This one is a two-parter!

Download the high-res, printable version here!

Okay! So here's how you do it. With this one, you've gotta grab your glue and a little tape. If you want to use both parts, you're going to have to stick-em together somehow. I'll recommend a couple of things. If you finish folding the two little guys, you can actually use a needle and thread, tie a knot at the bottom of your thread, and string 'em like beads! With the left over thread (or ribbon -- whatever tickles your fancy) just loop it over into a beautiful bow, and there you have it! An instant hanger!

Or, if you choose one of the other orientations (like the one where the little guy is stuck on the front, you might have to use some hefty double stick tape, or a little glue! Good luck and happy creating!

Remember, if you make one and you'd like to share it with our readers, send it in anytime between now and Christmas, and we'll post it to share! (Send it to chris (at) paperbicycle (dot) com!)

We'll be posting our designs soon - It'll be fun seeing what everyone does with this shape! Ha!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Sweet Christmas

2011-12-01T10:10:00.000-06:00

It's probably no surprise that my favorite thing about Christmas is all the delicious holiday food. We host Christmas at my family house each year which means tons of cooking, and baking. Everything from mac and cheese, sugar cookies, and candies, to holiday ham! One tradition that never quite caught on was the whole gingerbread house thing - probably because it's supposed to be a decoration, not food. I know it might be tempting - but do not eat this ornament.

You can download the printable version here. Enjoy!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Festive Tree

2011-11-30T10:00:00.002-06:00

You can't stop me from drawing ornament shapes. Onions and finials are the best! Of course you need a tree to hang them on. A dirty secret is I'm not a huge fan of decorating the Christmas Tree. Lucky for me, Lindsay would do it every day of the week if she could!

I'm terrible at making real mock-ups, so here's a fake one! Thread the hangloop through a gold bead for added festivities!

Download the printable version!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS–Rocket Around the Christmas Tree

2011-11-29T11:59:00.004-06:00

Last night I watched several documentaries. I'm recovering (hopefully) from some illness and working on an ornament in front of educational, inspirational things was the best possible idea. The first one was about the rise and fall of Disney animation, the second was about galaxies, and the third was actually the audio commentary for Wall-E. So the viewing was also sort of thematic.

You can download the full version of this ornament here! The colors may look a little weird on the download because it's a CYMK file, but it should print okay!

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Fancy Claus

2011-11-28T15:28:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday-after-Thanksgiving, everyone! I hope your weekend was filled with lots of food and lots of naps. And - to our international friends, Happy Regular-old-November-Monday! I also hope your weekend was full of food and naps!

I wanted to kick this project off today by sharing my very first paper ornament: "Fancy Claus!". Everyone's beard has to have a little surprise in it, right? I chose to take this shape and make Santa's head!

Download the fold-able high res file here! In case you need a refresher on how to put these together. All of our ornaments are going to be made to be printed out on an 8.5" x 11", Letter-sized piece of paper. Then, just cut around the edge, and fold on the dotted lines! They don't come with a lot of instructions, but you'll see pretty quickly which pieces to fold in and glue together! Maybe I'll do a little Photo-demo with this one to show you how!

Besides that, I'll be dragging my faux-tree out of the basement this week with hopes of decorating it and singing along to Christmas carols. Good thing there is a radio station that plays all the Christmas Jams this early! (Yes, I know, it's still November!) Happy start to a new fun project! Hope you guys are able to create some ornaments with us!

Daily Pattern: Old Fashioned Snowman-making

2011-11-27T21:25:00.002-06:00

Topic: snowman

We don't have snow here, yet. It feels kind of weird to realize this on November 27th, but I know Minneapolis is not necessarily like my birthplace in the U.P. of Michigan, with insane amounts of snow all of the time, always.

PAPER DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Week 1 : Teardrop Ornament

2011-11-26T22:35:00.000-06:00

We're officially within a month of Christmas and we've been gearing up for something really special and fun for the next couple weeks! Starting this week, we're going to give everyone a link to download a super fun, paper-craft ornament! We're hoping that all the crafty people out there find awesome, fun ways of using these! Plus, we're going to be uploading our own designs for you guys to peek at and use!

Here's where the fun comes in! Each week, we'll give you a new, fun, ornament template (up until Christmas) to download and use. If you design an ornament with our template and want to share it with our readers, send it on over and we'll post it for everyone else to see and download (if you are so generous!). If you want to go the extra mile and print yours out and send us a picture, we'll post that, too! Just send your ornament files and pitures to Chris (at) paperbicycle (dot) com before Christmas Day!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR TEARDROP ORNAMENT TEMPLATE!
Each ornament can be printed out on a sheet of letter-sized paper!

We'll be running a best-of contest, too, for our very favorite designs! How's that for a holiday bonus!

Watch for our next ornament template next Friday!
Happy Holidays and Happy Designing!

Daily Pattern: Harry Potter

2011-11-26T13:42:00.002-06:00

Topic: Owls

By now I think it's fairly clear that I like a lot of things one would classify as "nerdy". Harry Potter is up there on my list of nerdy things I like. It's been awhile since I've read the books now, but I wouldn't mind reading them again.

Daily Pattern: Fall Textures

2011-11-26T02:38:00.003-06:00

Topic: Thankful

Thanksgiving is always a good time for me. It's the perfect holiday for me: laid back, lazy and chill. It also takes place during my favorite season. Fall. My memories of Thanksgivings-past are all tinged with the warm colors of the fall leaves. Like a cheesy sepia-toned flashback in real life.

Daily Pattern : Girly Snowman

2011-11-23T00:23:00.000-06:00

Topic: Snowman

Every year we (at Paper Bicycle) do COUNTLESS numbers of snowmen, snowflakes, and Christmas / Winter themed icons and projects for people. Christmas seems to be our number 1 business, always. I am not surprised. I am totally one of those people that gets super excited about Christmas every single year and collects ornaments and Vintage Christmas cards every chance I get.

This pattern is a special one to me. The VERY FIRST pattern I ever made with a snowman in it was one I did for my very first design job out of college. (It was also one of my very first patterns ever!) I did a super girly, pink snowman pattern. This one is a a throwback to the days of olde! Yeah, pink snowman! You'll forever be in my heart.

Daily Pattern: Watercolor Snowmen

2011-11-23T00:03:00.004-06:00

There was the first snowfall of the year this weekend (the day of our party, of course) and for a while there was a nice, crisp, quiet texture covering the whole city.

Now it's getting grimy and slushy, but it was nice while it lasted.

These Snowmen come from that first day's clean refreshing snow...

Daily Pattern : Lingerie

2011-11-22T02:05:00.000-06:00

Topic : Underwear

If you're going to bother to wear any underwear at all, you should always try your best to make it cute, comfortable, and clean. This goes for everyone. Who knows why or how you will end up in your underwear, really. But if you are going to be down to your skivvies, you should make sure you're sporting something impressive rather than depressive for whomever is there as a witness.

Daily Pattern: Boxers or Briefs?

2011-11-22T00:33:00.001-06:00

Speaking of dance parties - we had an almost serious conversation about what type of underwear is most conducive to strutting your stuff on the dance floor. Despite compelling points from each group, we're a party divided. Some guys prefer the comfort provided by boxer briefs, others roll with classic tightie-whities, and one person in particular, who shall not be named, likes his underwear to float around his legs like a skirt...

Studio : Dance Party

2011-11-21T19:18:00.000-06:00

We're super thankful for everyone that came out and partied with us on Saturday! Seems like we've been silent on the airwaves (is that what you call this?) for a day or two, but it's all for good reason! We threw a Dance Party over both of our spaces, with what seems like a million awesome, dancey people!

We got the whole darn thing set up, staffed, and ready to go! Then all we had to do was wait! Thanks to the entirety of MPLS that came out and danced with us!! You guys are the best! Some day we'll edit together the video - but until then - Here are some funny pictures of us getting down!

And the rest are here!

Daily Pattern: Broken Geometry

2011-11-18T00:28:00.004-06:00

Topic: Geo

Have you ever been driving on a long stretch of road and had that terrible realization that you can't remember anything about the last hour? You don't remember what you passed, how fast you were going or if you were even conscious?

Yeah.

Daily Pattern : Who, Me?

2011-11-17T03:12:00.000-06:00

Topic : Owl

Today was a crazy day. I feel like I got to soak up all the social interaction I had been missing for the past week... all in one day!
It was pretty awesome - I'm super excited for all of the new projects that are coming down the pike, including an awesome project that I'll be helping a friend with. Super exciting!

Plus, we're gearing up for our cupcake-dance-party on Saturday! I wish all of you guys could come! Wish us luck - we've got lots of cupcakes to make and a bunch of decorations to get together!

Here are some surly owls!

Daily Pattern: Owl Pellets

2011-11-17T00:14:00.002-06:00

Topic: Owls

A fond memory from middle school was dissecting owl pellets at camp. Bones, dirt, (kind of) vomit? What more could a young man want? Finding an actual owl pellet in the woods is a special occasion, indeed.

Daily Pattern: Barn Owls

2011-11-16T22:25:00.000-06:00

Topic: Owl

When I was a kid I had a fascination with raptors, birds of prey. I remember putting together a binder of pictures I found in magazines as part of a 'research project'. Everyone knew about the great horned owl, and I assumed all owls must look like those. But then I found a picture of a barn owl and its weird ghostly face. I decided they must be the best owl.

Daily Pattern: Wedding Bands

2011-11-16T12:09:00.001-06:00

Topic: Rings

Alyssa had the best idea about doing a Beyoncé pattern, and I sort of still just want to finish the Beyoncé illustration I started (that would have been a pattern), but I suppose Beyoncé would approve of some wedding rings, anyway.

Daily Pattern : Ring Tails

2011-11-16T00:34:00.000-06:00

Topic : Ring

One of my favorite animals at the zoo is the ring-tailed lemur!
They look like a cross between a monkey and a cat, and are super funny!
I love them and their funny little hands! This was an easy choice for the "ring" topic.

Today was crazy! I had a meeting in Arkansas today so I got up, got on a plane, had a meeting, got back on a plane, and then made this pattern!
It was really nice to sit down and do this after a long day!

Daily Pattern: Linked Rings

2011-11-15T21:00:00.002-06:00

Rings, rings all linked together! In a chain.

Flavour'd Milk

2011-11-15T20:47:00.000-06:00

Topic: Ring

Rings are round with holes in them. So are fruit loops. I don't actually like fruit loops very much, I've always been a trix man myself.

Daily Pattern: Lacey Paisley

2011-11-15T11:59:00.002-06:00

Topic: paisley

I've never made a paisley pattern before! Yesterday I got the rundown on how to make one from Lindsay and Chris. The "paisley formula" made me think it would be kind of fun to do by hand, so I drew and repeated this one on grid paper and then brought it into the computer for color. I like it when I can confidently say "you learn something new every day".

Daily Pattern : Foliage is sort of a paisley

2011-11-15T01:04:00.000-06:00

Like Jesse said in his post, paisley originated from some kind of stylized floral/foliage shape. So, I went super foliage on this one. Here are a bunch of paisley shaped leaves for you. You guys know how much I like drawing leaves!
I tried out one of the new ways to make patterns on this one.

Speaking of patterns. Today was a little bittersweet. It was my final patterns class at MCAD. My students were so awesome and inspirational. We went through everyone's 10 weeks of patterns and everyone had such awesome, beautiful designs. There's something to be said for keeping great company with creative, inspiring people! Tomorrow I'm off to help do a pitch in the dirty south for one of our clients! :D Wish me luck & safe travels!

Daily Pattern: Bad Paisley

2011-11-15T00:23:00.002-06:00

Topic: Paisley

You probably should have guessed I'd do a non-traditional paisley. You probably should have guessed it would involved little monsters. You probably should have guessed I'd spend too much time on this pattern.

If you guessed all those things, you win the game!

Actually, I probably could have spend way more time on this pattern given the opportunity. Ah... such is Daily Pattern.

Octo-Paisley!!

2011-11-14T20:25:00.001-06:00

Topic: Paisley

According to Wikipedia a paisley pattern is supposed to be a "droplet-shaped vegetable motif". Last time I checked octopus are not a vegetable. So strictly speaking, I guess this is maybe not paisley at all. But that's OK. None of my haiku's ever dealt with nature. And my limericks are never dirty.

Edit: If anyone is counting, the 8th tentacles are hiding...

Daily Pattern: Flats

2011-11-14T11:52:00.003-06:00

Topic: shoes

I wouldn't mind owning so many flats. Flats and 2 pair of boots. You can wear them with most things.

Daily Pattern: Snow Shoes

2011-11-13T03:02:00.003-06:00

Topic: Shoes

So I kind of blew it when I made a shoe pattern the day before the topic was actually "shoes" but that's ok. I'm don't exactly have the time to plan ahead...

I didn't want to make another pattern about fly dunks, so here's one about cute snow shoes instead!

Daily Pattern : Pile of Flowers

2011-11-12T03:29:00.003-06:00

Topic : Fresh

A woman told me once (and I forget who it is, but I loved hearing it)
that when her future husband proposed to her, that she accepted on one condition, that he surprise her with fresh flowers every week. I thought that was very romantic, and such a sweet idea. Here's my fresh flowers pattern!
I could use a flower or two!

Daily Pattern: Fresh Kicks

2011-11-10T23:05:00.004-06:00

Topic: Fresh

To some of my former co-workers, I was known as the tall guy with the shoes. I have a lot of shoes, and they're all pretty flashy.

I normally dress in pretty drab colors but I always have a pop of color: usually my shoes. While pink and purple are my go-to colors, I've probably got pretty much anything you can imagine.

If don't feel like you can rock some candy colored shoes just yet, why don't you just start with the laces and work your way up?

Daily Pattern: Painted Pigs

2011-11-10T20:16:00.004-06:00

Topic: farm

I read a tiny bit about farms and sustainability and things like that. They're fairly popular topics these days. One of the things I thought was both interesting (and kind of cool) is how animals and plants can give and take from each other in good amounts. Some regulation, plus regulation of how much regulation is happening, makes for a pretty nice setup.

Daily Pattern: Fresh Cilantro

2011-11-10T11:00:00.000-06:00

There's nothing better than fresh, delicious herbs. In fact, I have a whole bunch of fresh cilantro in my fridge just dying to add some flavor to my my meals (or maybe just actually dying). This pattern is dedicated the fresh little plant that make's Chipotle's cilantro lime rice oh-so-delicious.

Daily Pattern : All the pretty eggs

2011-11-10T01:47:00.000-06:00

Topic : Farm

On one of our trips to New York for the Surtex show, we stumbled upon the farmers market in Union Square. I remember seeing one of the booths there with some absolutely stunning blue and brown eggs. I had never seen such gorgeous eggs! They were all shades of colors, soft colors -- many of them were just light teal, or sky blue with a couple tiny speckles! I haven't seen eggs that wonderful since!

Daily Pattern: Chicken Scratch

2011-11-09T09:00:00.000-06:00

Woo! Trying to get on board for the last stretch of patterns. Here's my farm pattern - inspired by the farm I used to visit as a kid. It was actually a Christmas tree farm in West Virginia, but there was totally a chicken coop, and goats. I always thought those chickens were kind of scary, but these guys are a bit more peaceful enjoying an afternoon snack.

Daily Pattern : Big Eyes

2011-11-09T01:04:00.000-06:00

Topic: Babies

I can't resist those big eyes of yours!
In fact, I can't resist anything with big eyes - except for aliens. I hate them. I hate the idea of aliens from outer space more than anything in the world. Why? I am not sure - maybe it's too many scary movies about aliens?

Pretty much everything is cute with big eyes! So here are some big-eyed baby bunnies!

Daily Pattern: Ducklings

2011-11-08T23:59:00.002-06:00

Topic: babies

Add this to the list of awesome things about Minneapolis: there are lakes in the city. On those lakes there are ducks (during the warmer months), and sometimes those ducks have babies. I suppose any place with a pond in it has some ducks.

Daily Pattern: Alphabet for Babies

2011-11-08T19:19:00.002-06:00

Topic: Babies

I didn't want to do some really strange or creepy pattern for babies, so I decided to play it straight on this one. Baby patterns are usually so simple it's almost painful for me, so I picked a limited unisex color palette and made a very simple baby pattern. An ABC's Baby pattern!

Daily Pattern: Private Eye

2011-11-08T11:22:00.004-06:00

Topic: eyes

I watched another Hercule Poirot mystery while I was working on this one. It started out as a completely different subject (somebody mentioned "potatoes" and I thought that would be great), but I sort of fell into the influence of the murder mystery again.

Daily Pattern: Autumn Fun

2011-11-08T10:07:00.001-06:00

Topic: Halloween

Mike Meulstee contributed an excellent Philadelphia-inspired pattern to our September Pattern Contest. He got inspired by the changing seasons and came up with this fun, fall-themed pattern!

Thanks for sharing, Mike!

Daily Pattern: Somebody's Watching Me

2011-11-08T01:16:00.003-06:00

Topic: Eyes

I've always been one to stay up way too late. As far back as I can remember, I've been giving up sleep for more virtuous pursuits; art, video games, movies, girls, friends, more video games, etc.

Which is how I always end up walking my dogs at around 2 am each morning. I'm pretty used to it by now but on particularly cold and dark nights, I can't help but feel like someone is following me, watching from the bushes...

What do they want? My iPod? My dog-poop bags? My soul? Only they know for sure...

Daily Pattern : Eye See You

2011-11-08T00:54:00.001-06:00

Topic: Eyes

I don't know why but lately I've been having weird, restless sleep. Maybe it's because I've been staying up late looking at 9gag.com. Maybe it's because I found all of the recent gross pictures of Courtney Stodden and her weird old husband in their Halloween costumes (sorry guys, you'll have to google them... I didn't feel quite right about a link right there). Whatever it is, I've felt SUPER tired lately.

So, it serves me right for staying up and "winding down" with a little internet in bed. Not like I don't spend enough time on the computer, am I right?
Here's a bunch of eyes keeping their gaze on you while you go about your daily business. (Most of these are sleepy, just like mine).

Daily Pattern: Chess

2011-11-07T11:33:00.003-06:00

Topic: game

I kind of miss playing chess! The computer game version is all right, I guess. I think I like the analog form of this game the best, though.

Daily Pattern: Old West

2011-11-07T11:21:00.003-06:00

Topic: cowboy

Cowboys were my younger brother's first obsession. He had the hat, the toy metal gun, holster, bandannas (borrowed from my dad's handkerchiefs), little plastic cowboy guys, and lincoln logs (essential for building forts for cowboy guys). Here's to you, bro.

Daily Pattern: Quest for Loot

2011-11-06T19:23:00.003-06:00

Topic: Fantasy

This topic is late but I feel like it is timely nonetheless. After all, what better week to make a Fantasy themed pattern than the week that Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim comes out!?

Awwwwwww snap. The refrain I always sing while playing a great RPG is "GIMME DAT LOOT, FOOL!" Gold! Gems! Blades! Recipes! Books! Rings! Wands! Helmets! Boots! Gauntlets! Flasks! Potions! Skulls! Herbs!

I don't care! I'll loot it all! Even if I can't use it, I want to sell it! Enchant it! Trade it! Break it down and combine it!

Sorry I'm getting so worked up, but I've been waiting for this game for a long time. This pattern is dedicated to some of my favorite loot: the weapons and the cash-monies... Although in hindsight I feel bad for not including Lindsay's weapon of choice: big ol' hammers!

Daily Pattern : Bandana

2011-11-06T01:43:00.000-06:00

Topic : Wild West
During my last year of art school I was totally in love with everything that had to do with cowboys. It was a full on obsession. I still love em, but the bandanas I wear these days are just the ones I wear up in my hair.

Daily Pattern: Your Roll

2011-11-06T01:47:00.003-05:00

Topic: Game

Boardgames have always been a part of life. We used to have an entire linen closest packed to the brim with the things. These were the standards like Monopoly, Clue and Hi-Ho! Cherry-O.

While I certainly didn't appreciate it when I was younger, Yahtzee slowly became a favorite of mine. As a child I thought the game was just based around pure chance but eventually I realized it's a game about probabilities and hedging your bets. And it seems to be the one game my entire family still enjoys playing to this very day.

Somehow this simple game of rolling dice always becomes a heated, smack-talking, superstitious, uproarious good time.

Daily Pattern: Cowboy's Best Friend

2011-11-04T00:47:00.003-05:00

Topic: Wild West

Q: What's a cowboy without his trusty gun?

A: Six feet under.

I think I just made that joke up.

Daily Pattern: Cowboy Cats

2011-11-03T21:40:00.000-05:00

Chris told me I should make a pattern with cats. So I did. And it's this, a rough and tumble band of kitty outlaws, robbing trains, drinking and gambling, and stepping on cacti.

Things brings my year's total of cat art to Three. And my life-time cat art number to something I could still probably count on my fingers.

Good times.

Daily Pattern: The Long Overdue Bubble Tea Pattern

2011-11-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

topic: luxury

A smart person once told me that you know you're doing okay if (without anxiety) you can buy a bubble tea whenever you want. I still think that's the best measuring stick for the amount of wealth a person needs to be content. Maybe now bubble tea is replaced with regular old person tea, or an espresso drink every now and again, but it still makes me feel like I'm livin' the good life.

Daily Pattern: the Jackalope

2011-11-03T10:23:00.003-05:00

Topic: myth

Everybody knows that jackalopes are the fearsome stuff of legend. They may be one of the cuter versions of mythological beasts, but that doesn't make them any more friendly. Unless you're talking about this guy, who is always willing to give a hand and some advice.

Daily Pattern : Two rights make an explosion

2011-11-03T02:01:00.000-05:00

Topic : Myth

Raise your hand if you've heard the one about the kid that drank a 20oz bottle of coke and downed a couple packets of Pop Rocks! Anyone? Anyone??
Well, he exploded. From the inside out.
Yes, well, maybe it's an urban legend, but it's still one of those myths that I remember from my childhood.

Anyone else remember one of those myths? How about -- Gum stays in your stomach for 7 years if you swallow it! Can you remember any more of them?

Daily Pattern: Ol' Nessie

2011-11-02T23:11:00.003-05:00

Topic: Myth

When I was young I wanted to see the Loch Ness monster so bad. It was both exciting and terrifying beyond belief. The thought that there could be anything remotely dinosaur-esque hidden somewhere in the world captured my imagination. But I've also always been terrified of what might lurk under murky water.

So Nessie always held a special allure to me. If I could have seen the Loch Ness monster in person, I could have died a happy ten year old. But I would have also pooped my pants.

I've since given up hope but the grainy pictures still send a modest shiver down my spine. In a good way. This pattern started out as a pack of happy sea monsters but I quickly realized that it should be dark, grainy, foggy and unclear. It's just more exciting that way.