Happy Fantastic Designs

Women’s Festival of Crafts

2011-11-20T08:22:00.002-05:00

Women’s Festival of Crafts is a WONDERFUL show showcasing Vermont female artisans and handcrafters. Come on out and show your support to your local artists!
*****
Saturday November 26th, 10am-6pm
Sunday November 27th, 10am-5pm
Burlington City Hall

Tutu-tastic!

2011-10-25T04:12:00.003-04:00

I have made tutus! The tutus are adjustable and can fit a variety of sizes from little girls to us ladies. Tutus are great if you want an easy but ultra cute costume as a ballerina, fairy, or Madonna 80's chic. Just throw one over leggings and a leotard and... VOILA! Instant cute costume!!!

New Product Alert! Trick-or-Treat Bags

2011-10-04T09:29:00.003-04:00

Halloween is my FAVORITE holiday. I love the look of black and orange together. I love the costumes and candy. I deeply sympathized with Linus when the other kids made fun of him as he waited in the most sincere pumpkin patch on Halloween night waiting for the Great Pumpkin to arrive. As a child, I would start planning my costume in August. I would form alliances with kids in other neighborhoods and plot ways to cover the most trick-or-treating territory spanning multiple cities! And as an adult, I love the beautiful connection other cultures have in which we honor and pay respect to the dead.

I have been wanting to make some spooky spooktastic creations for years. So I am excited to say that I have whipped up the ultimate trick-or-treat bag! It is big enough to hold 3 times as much loot as the plastic pumpkins. The handles are short so that it can be opened easily and will not drag on the ground. My trick-or-treat bags can be thrown in the washing machine and used year after year. That makes them much greener than the plastic bags which get holes and end up in landfills each year.

Oh... and surprise... SURPRISE! Each trick-or-treat bag is REVERSIBLE! So it is like getting 2 bags in one. If your kiddo is feeling spooky they can have the skulls if they are feeling sweet they can have the pumpkins.

I will have them for sale at the Burlington Farmers Market (8:30am - 2:00pm) each Saturday in October. And if you can't make it to the market please e-mail me ship one to you. Bags are 15 each plus 3.95 shipping.

New Website!!!

2011-09-30T21:24:00.004-04:00

Just finished the full "test run" of my new website. I am sure I will be tweaking things for a while, but for now it is exciting to begin my journey of branding my business. You can check it out at www.happyfantastic.com.

Go Happy Fantastic! Go!!!

New Belts!!!

2011-09-23T09:33:00.003-04:00

I know I said I would not have time to make many new belts right now as I am focusing on school. But... When I saw these beautiful bohemian ribbons I just had to buy some and turn them into belts! I will have them for sale tomorrow at the Burlington Farmers Market. Burlington, VT in City Hall Park from 8:30 am - 2:00 pm.

Putting the FUN in Fundraising!

2011-09-20T07:23:00.007-04:00

Wow! What an exciting day we had on Sunday! Mr. Calvin Cuddles, my friends Ellen and Kylee (and Kylee's pug Tuffy), and I all went out to Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs to raise money and awareness for Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). It was one "wild party" for dogs and their owners and there were so many great things going on! A cowboy parade and costume contest, dog demonstrations, disc dog Vermont state championships. Plus DOZENS upon DOZENS of dog rescue groups and dog-tastic vendors!

Ellen, Kylee, and Mr. Calvin (the ONLY basenji of the 1,000 dogs at the event)

Someone's getting tired!

And he is out like a light! :)

Happy Fantastic Fabric Fabrication!

2011-08-18T14:11:00.012-04:00

A lot of people ask me where I get my cool + unusual fabrics. Did you know that I make a lot of them? That's right! I silk-screen on solid colored fabric before I cut, pin, and sew.

The above image shows spirograph designs that will soon be turned into change purses, pouches, and handbags.

Here is one that I finished a couple weeks ago!

And as you can imagine this is a LOT of work. But it is worth it! Here are some beauties I have printed over the years:

Purple Circles on Olive Green Canvas

Black Skulls on Red

Brown Peace Sign and Flowers on Hand-dyed Aqua Canvas

Silk-Screening Away!!!

2011-04-19T14:58:00.005-04:00

Spring is in the air and I have been busy as a bee silk-screening tees for children and adults. Here are some of the great styles that I have in my Happy Fantastic online store. I will also have them at the Burlington Farmers Market in May.

New Baby Onesies for Spring!!!

2011-03-20T16:25:00.002-04:00

I just finished a photo shoot of baby onesies for spring! Come stop by the Burlington Farmers Market (March 26) or my Etsy store (http://www.etsy.com/shop/happyfantastic) to shop for Happy Fantastic baby gifts. ♥

Raising Money for Basenji Rescue at the BeCause Craft Show

2011-03-13T14:15:00.008-04:00

Yesterday I participated in the BeCause Craft Show to raise money for Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). The BeCause Craft Show is a really unique event here in Vermont in which VT artists and and crafters come together and spend a day raising money for the local or global charity of their choice. So a big thank you to all who came out to the show and support all the wonderful organizations represented. Another big thank you to my friend Lauren who helped me run my booth + the Basenji table. And if you missed the show, you can still donate to BRAT thru their website or via my online shop in which I am donating some of my profit to Basenji Rescue.

Please enjoy the pictures of the event. :)

2011-01-12T21:05:00.004-05:00

One of my Happy Fantastic goals for 2011 is to make sure I have more items in my Happy Fantastic Etsy shop for my long distance fans. So please welcome my pocket mirrors to my online store! These are great to give out at weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, and other special events. And I even have special bulk discounts!!! :D

2011-01-05T18:14:00.001-05:00

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the Burlington Farmers Market this Saturday 10am-2pm. The market takes place in Memorial Auditorium (250 Main St).
SUPER SALE on children's fleece hats with ear flaps.
Just 10 bucks each!
YIPEE!!!

Happy Fantastic Designs is now at A Passion for Pets!!!

2010-12-19T17:12:00.003-05:00

Happy Fantastic Designs is now at A Passion for Pets!!! ♥

They have a bunch of my Happy Fantastic Doggie Tees, dog collars, and dog + animal themed magnets and pins. Perfect for making your doggie look Happy Fantastic this holiday season! :)

Location:
A Passion for Pets
110 Heineberg Drive
Colchester VT
(Near Danform Shoes and across from the McDonalds)

Doggie Tees are perfect to keep cute and cozy indoors or to add extra warmth under a dog coat when walking on a chilly day!

I am no longer making dog collars so get 'em now before they are all gone!

Queen City Craft Bazzar!!!

2010-11-15T21:10:00.003-05:00

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the Queen City Craft Bazaar this Saturday!!! Please spread the work as this will be an AWESOME show with a cool, DIY, Brooklyn/NYC kinda feel! :)

Queen City Craft Bazaar

Saturday November 20th

10am - 5pm

Union Station

1 Main Street, Burlington, VT

Strut: An Art Hop Fashion Event

2010-10-13T08:22:00.006-04:00

Here are some AMAZING photos of the roller derby inspired fashions that Adrienne Goulette and I sent down the Art Hop runway. Photos conceived and taken by Adam Staffa.

The tops and skirts are for sale at the Burlington Farmers Market (Vermont; Saturdays 8:30-2:00) and in my Etsy online shop.

Childrens belts are FINALLY finished!!! :)

2010-08-13T12:56:00.001-04:00

YEA!!! :)

After a LOT of customer requests I finally made some childrens belts which I will have for sale at the Burlington Farmers Market this Saturday. I have only made 4 in a smaller toddler size and 12 in a child size as this will be a limited seasonal item coinciding with back to school.
♥ ♥ ♥ 
p.s. If you haven't already "liked" Happy Fantastic Designs on Facebook please do so. Cause you know you do! ;)

I am OBSESSED with Dog Collars!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-02T09:27:00.007-05:00

I can't explain it, but for the past week I have become obsessed with making dog collars! I have a bunch of new designs for spring including Martingale Collars. Big ones, small ones, ones with mushrooms, and skulls, and outer space themes! Keep checking my Happy Fantastic Etsy Store throughout the month of March for new collars! :)

To Dye For

2010-02-07T09:12:00.002-05:00

I am dying for spring!
(literally with tote bags in robin's egg blue and rain cloud gray!) ;)

Burlington's Own Winter Farmers' Market!

2010-01-19T01:12:00.005-05:00

Happy Fantastic Designs is now a vendor at the Winter Burlington Farmers Market!

The winter market is a successful extension of the VERY popular summer market. The market is a great opportunity to showcase all that Burlington has to offer, 58 vendors will be setting up every third Saturday of the month from November to April in Memorial Auditorium. We have a wide range of products from farmers selling preserves and frozen vegetables, root vegetables, fresh meats, cheeses, maple syrup, honey and eggs. We have wineries offering a variety of local wines. We have prepared foods including your favorites from the Summer Market and we have crafters selling everything from jewelry, a variety of clothing to pottery and photographic art.

The hours for the market are 10am to 2pm, it is held in Memorial Auditorium at the corner of Main Street and South Union in downtown Burlington. Every third Saturday of the month from November to April: (11/21; 12/19; 1/16; 2/20; 3/20; 4/18)

A Happy Fantastic Birthday!!!

2009-12-13T19:58:00.004-05:00

Today is the 18th Birthday of my muse, partner, and soul-mate Miss Happy Fantastic Basenji Extraordinaire! And yes, 18 is REALLY old for a dog, it is like 100 in human years. I love my Happy and I am thankful for each day she is with me! :)

Enjoy these Happy Fantastic Party Pics!

Yum!!! Ben & Jerry's with a peanut butter cup doggie pie from PupCat Bakery.

The Party Crashers!!!

mmm... it does go well with the chicken

Party pooper!

Home Fur the Holidays: Update

2009-12-12T18:40:00.005-05:00

Yea!!!
Today I raised almost $100 bucks for the Humane Society of Chittenden County. A super duper THANK YOU to all who came to Home Fur the Holidays! :)

Oh, and don't tell Happy, Calvin, or Toni but they made bank with all the cool Christmas presents + treats I got them! :)

Switchplates!

2009-12-11T09:20:00.000-05:00

License Plate Guy (aka Aaron Stein) you totally rock! I am loving my switchplates!

Aaron from Revival Studio will be one of the many talented artists at the Pine Street Art District Holiday Open Studio & Sale (Dec 11, 3pm-8pm and Dec 12 10am-4pm) and the BCA Holiday Artist Market on December 18th and 19th.

Home Fur the Holidays

2009-12-10T09:19:00.001-05:00

Here is another great fundraiser I am doing to help our furry friends:
Home Fur the Holidays
Saturday, December 12th, 11am-5pm
Play Dog Play
688 Pine St, Burlington
*** Home Fur the Holidays is a one-of-a-kind holiday gift fair for animals. Vermont pet industry manufacturers, businesses, and artists come together to help raise money for the Humane Society of Chittenden County...because every animal deserves a warm, loving forever home. ***

BRAT Fundraiser

2009-12-06T13:17:00.000-05:00

L.L. Cool C
(Because the Ladies Love Cool Calvin!)

The goods.

He might like the ladies, but this is what Calvin was really after. ;)

Yesterday I had a table set up at Pet Food Warehouse to do a little PR for BRAT and to do a little fundraising. Of course my little social butterfly (Calvin) came with me and he had a blast. My little luv bug managed to steal the hearts of almost all the girls (and a couple of guys!) who worked there!

But, the highlight of my day was when a group of about 6-7 rambunctious kids came in with one lone dad. 3 of them made an immediate bee-line for Calvin who just loved the fact that they kept bringing him free cookie samples. Then one of the kids with a very mischievous sparkle in his eye announced (quite loudly) that he would in fact eat one of the free dog treats. All the kids were totally GROSSED OUT! But that was not the best part, what was best was that by the time the kids were leaving the store the little devil had 3 of the other boys - and even the father - nibbling away on dog treats!!! Love it! Love it! Love it!

Women's Festival of Crafts :)

2009-11-28T19:32:00.000-05:00

This show totally ROCKED! Yipee! Double click on the images to get a better look at all my cool Happy Fantastic stuff.

SUPER DUPER THANKS to all who attended the show + supported us Vermont artists!!! :)

Hand-Knit Hats!!!

2009-10-10T19:40:00.000-04:00

It is officially hat season here in Vermont as it has been unusually cold for the beginning of October. This year I have a wide variety of hand knit hats for sale at the art market (ends Oct 24) and in my online shop. This year people seem to be really gravitating toward my Funky Chunky Hippie Hats. Oh, and of course people adore my animal hats. I have also been getting a lot of positive comments on my Astro-Turf Doormat hats (but no one has had the guts to buy one yet!) :)

Thanks PFW, Love BRAT

2009-09-30T07:22:00.000-04:00

A nice haul of loot!

Lady aka Official Postal Box Inspector.

Ajani (resident dog) is wishing someone would send him some goodies too!

Princess looking like royalty in her new collar and harness.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, at the Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs event I entered Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) in a rescue raffle and we WON a $250 gift card to Pet Food Warehouse. Ironically, there are no foster dogs up here in Vermont right now (and won't be until I have more time or we get more volunteers) so the question was what to do with the gift card. After taking with the "big wigs" at BRAT, I learned that the Missouri district coordinator was in need of almost everything as they get a lot of unwanted dogs out in the mid-west (puppy mills grrrr!). So off I went to PFW and had an awesome shopping spree for the little BRATs. I filled a big box of stuff with over half a dozen fun colored leashes and collars, some really cute harnesses by Lupine, Kongs, chicken strips, bully sticks, greenies, and other yummies. I got an e-mail from the MO coordinator and she said her fosters are LOVING everything!

A Happy Fantastic THANK YOU goes out to PFW for being an AWESOME business that really cares about furry friends in need. :)

Puggy Pugtastic GMPR Pug Social

2009-09-27T09:02:00.000-04:00

This year at the Green Mountain Pug Rescue (GMPR) Pug Social Happy Fantastic Designs raised $58.50 for little puggies in need. Honestly, I would have liked to have raised more money -- but the truth is every little bit counts in the world of dog rescue. Thanks to all who came to the Pug Social + helped GMPR raise money + awareness!!! :) A big "Thank You!" goes out to Gary who ran my booth all by himself, did a darn good job displaying everything, and even caught a "runaway" pug. He brought back a bunch of photos of pugs dressed up all silly -- my favorite were the 3 leprechaun pugs sitting under the rainbow + guarding their pot of cookie gold!

If you missed the Pug Social, never fear. I still have a couple of "Pugalicious" and "Pugs Not Drugs" dog tees left and a bunch of Buddha Pug totes + tees for humans. Just e-mail me at info@happyfantastic.com to place an order. :)

BRAT Fundraiser a Success!

2009-09-15T19:34:00.000-04:00

Calvin sporting his goth tee shirt. You can't see it, but his shirt says "I Vant to Bite Your Butt". Dare I say more?

One of my happy customers (who I am betting ate the tee shirt before he got home).

Calvin and Toni safe in doggie jail, er, I mean their crate.

On Sunday I had a BRAT booth at the Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs Event up here in Vermont. It is a really cool event where the historical Shelburne Museum works with the locally owned and run Pet Food Warehouse to throw what is considered "The biggest dog party of the year". This year 2,600 people and 870 dogs attended. That is A LOT of dogs in one place at one time! There were dozens upon dozens of booths from dog and animal rescue groups and other dog related businesses like groomers, trainers, and doggie day care. There was a doggie fashion show, a HUGE doggie costume contest, agility and police dog demonstrations, dancing dogs, dog games like bobbing for hot dogs, and so much more!

In addition to having a table set up for BRAT I also had my own booth for my art business Happy Fantastic Designs. Happy Fantastic Designs is a collection of silk-screened apparel and accessories for women, children, and dogs. At this event I primarily sold tees for dogs and dog themed baby onesies and tote bags. Actually, I sold all of the pug and dachshund bags I brought! I still have some basenji totes left if anyone is interested. ;) I donated 50% of my profit to BRAT and raised $122.86. Plus, Pet Food Warehouse had a drawing to win gift certificates to their store, I entered BRAT, and lo and behold BRAT won a $250 gift card! Barooodle roo!!!!

I brought all 3 of the basenjis. Calvin was a model in the fashion show. Toni ate every single piece of cookie, food, and kettle corn as she could find on the ground, and Happy (who is almost 18!) spent the afternoon snoozing under a shady tree. The best part was that ALL 3 dogs behaved and there were no fights! And they were good and tired when we got home.

One thing is for certain, people in Vermont sure do love their dogs! :)

Finally!

2009-09-09T17:23:00.000-04:00

After a very wet summer the weather has finally become AWESOME! Super sunny + not too hot or not too cold. Here are some photos I have been taking when me + the dogs go out on our walks. Truly Amazing! :)

Getting Ready for Autumn

2009-08-19T15:12:00.000-04:00

My silk-screened + hand dyed tote bags have been very popular this year and I have a hard time keeping enough designs in stock at the BCA Artist Market. This is my last week of freedom before I go back to work on Monday so I am working hard to make enough bags to last through October. Today I dyed close to 40 totes in some really great colors: bright pink, pumpkin orange, cocoa brown, and slate gray (with a hint of lavender). These bags should surface the beginning of September (or perhaps earlier, who knows!).

Fall Belts

2009-08-14T10:21:00.000-04:00

It is almost 90 degrees out and I can't believe that I am already working on items for fall! Here is a photo of some belts I have been working on. Please double click on the image to enlarge it. I will have the cool colored belts (greens + blues) at the Art Market on August 15th and the rest will be available on August 22nd.

Queen City Craft Bazaar

2009-05-05T09:45:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe that it is spring and my art/craft shows are starting up again. My first "official" show of the season is the Queen City Craft Bazaar which is on Saturday. This is the coolest of the cool craft shows in the area so make sure you stop by for a look at all the great artists and and crafters right here in the greater Burlington community. Oh, and with Mother's Day on Sunday the Queen City Craft Bazaar couldn't have come at a better time. You are sure to find a unique handcrafted present for mom or for anyone you know having a spring birthday or baby shower.

Queen City Craft Bazaar
Saturday May 9th from 10am-5pm
Union Station
1 Main Street in Burlington.

Buy local, buy handmade! Over 40 of the best VT indie crafters, designers, and artists will fill both floors selling everything from jewelry, clothing, accessories, glass, pottery, journals, cards, soap, and other crafty things. Lots of recycled and upcycled products for sale. Handmade children's clothing too!

Free Parking is available in the lot next to Union Station. You can also get there easily from downtown by taking the Free College St. Shuttle. It will drop you off right at the front door of Union Station. Look for the ad in Seven Days! For more info and to see the list of participating vendors visit http://www.queencitycraft.com

Thank you to our media sponsor Seven Days!

BeCAUSE Craft Show a HUGE Success!!!

2009-03-22T16:54:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I was one of 50 vendors who participated in the beCAUSE Charity Craft Show. The beCAUSE Craft Show is not like any other you have ever experienced as is a fundraiser for both local and global charities. Each vendor selects a charity of their choice and agrees to donate 50-100 percent of their profits to that charity -- and I am sure you can all guess what Barootiful charity I chose to represent. I am happy to announce that I raised almost 175 dollars for Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT)!!! :)

So a BIG THANK YOU to all who came and supported the charities at the event. If you missed it, try not to fret. I am currently having an on-line fundraiser in my etsy shop www.HappyFantastic.etsy.com and I will be doing another BRAT fundraiser at Petfood Warehouse (Williston Rd location) on April 11th.

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the beCAUSE Craft Show

2009-02-24T07:56:00.001-05:00

For more information on the beCAUSE Craft Show and to view the 50 caring vendors and the charities they will be supporting go to www.becausecraftshow.com
Happy Fantastic Designs will be representing the non-profit charity "Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). BRAT is an all volunteer group that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes dogs of the basenji breed. In 2008 they were hit HARD by financially supporting a large number of dogs from puppy mills -- as many of the dogs were malnourished and sick which led to expensive vet bills. For more information on BRAT go to www.basenjirescue.org

Happy Fantastic On-line Fundraiser for BRAT

2009-02-15T13:09:00.000-05:00

My On-line fundraiser for Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) is doing well. BRAT is a nation wide organization that rehabilitates and re-homes basenjis that were given up and/or abandoned by their previous owners as well as a number of dogs from Puppy Mill busts. This year celebrates BRAT's 10 year anniversary. BRAT is a non-profit organization made up of approximately 1300 volunteers in the US and Canada. BRAT re-homes about 300 dogs a year and has found new loving homes for THOUSANDS of dogs over the past 10 years.

To date, I have raised almost 50 dollars for BRAT from my on-line fundraiser. That may not seem like a lot in the grand scheme of things, but it could pay for much needed meds for a dog or 1 months food for 4 dogs. To check out the items part of my fundraiser please go to www.happyfantastic.etsy.com or e-mail me to place a special order to benefit BRAT.

HAPPY FANTASTIC LOVES OUR FURRY FRIENDS!!!

2008-12-30T19:30:00.000-05:00

Many of you know that I am an avid dog lover and have 3 basenji dogs (Miss Happy Fantastic, Mr. Calvin Cuddles, and Miss Toni Terrific). I am a volunteer with the dog "shelter"/rescue group BRAT- Basenji Rescue and Transport (http://www.basenjirescue.org). Basenji Rescue and Transport rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes dogs of the basenji breed as well as mixed dogs. BRAT is an all-volunteer organization and has been recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt charitable corporation since its founding in 1999. BRAT rescues basenjis from shelters, abusive situations, and relinquishing owners. Basenji Rescue and Transport provides routine and advanced veterinary care for the dogs and insures that they have been spayed/neutered and appropriately immunized before placement in a forever home.

This past year Basenji Rescue and Transport has taken in an alarmingly high number of dogs (mostly from puppy mills that were thankfully shut down). As a result they are greatly in need of money and assistance to care for all of the dogs they have taken in. I am currently donating 50% of my profits from my on-line shop to the dog "shelter"/rescue group BRAT- Basenji Rescue and Transport. So, if you are looking for that special birthday present or a nice surprise for any occasion please consider the happy fantastic items in my on-line shop www.HappyFantastic.etsy.com

"Buy Handmade" + "Buy Local First!" event @ The Bobbin

2008-12-06T09:06:00.000-05:00

There will be a good n' crafty event this Sunday at The Bobbin -- Burlington VT's only Sew Bar + Craft Lounge that specializes in eco-friendly and sustainable crafting! More details are below.

Excerpt from an e-mail communication with The Bobbin co-founder, Gyllian Svensson:

"There's no better time to support local crafters than during the holidays, especially in this challenging economy. Keep your dollars local and support your neighbors by taking a pledge to buy local, handmade goods and services this year. Please join us on Sunday Dec. 7th from 2pm to 6pm and take the pledge. Enjoy localvore hors d'oeuvres and make your own ornaments in the Craft Lounge! Hope to see you there!"

The Bobbin Sew Bar + Craft Lounge
299 N. Winooski Ave. (corner of Archibald)
Burlington, VT 05401
www.thebobbin.com

Also, there is a great article on The Bobbin in St. Mike's student multimedia journal "The Echo" http://journalism.smcvt.edu/echo/11.19.08/Stories/Features/Bissett_bobbin.html

And of course, The Bobbin is a great place to take a cool crafting class or to purchase vintage fabrics and other unusual and/or vintage sewing and crafting supplies.

Pug Social

2008-09-19T11:29:00.001-04:00

PUG SOCIAL is this Saturday, Sept 20!!! Gary will be working my booth and he will have a DELUXE assortment of "Pugalicious" tees, totes, and accessories. I will be DONATING 50% of my profits to Green Mountain Pug Rescue. Shopping at this event supports both a LOCAL VERMONT business as well as a WONDERFUL pug rescue.

Pug Social
Saturday September 20
10am-5pm
Topnotch Field
Stowe, VT

Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs / BRAT Fundraiser

2008-09-19T11:29:00.000-04:00

Well, the weather was wet and windy (the wind broke the tent and prevented me from hanging the BRAT banner) but I still managed to raise almost $100 for Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) at the Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs event!!! BRAT is a national non-profit dog rescue group that specializes in re-homing basenji's and basenji-mixes that need to be adopted into new homes. The dogs enter into BRAT for a variety of reason with the most common being the result of divorce between owners, death of the owner, and puppy mill busts. As mentioned in one of my earlier posts, this year BRAT has acquired an alarming number of sick, traumatized, and malnourished dogs from puppy mills. The dogs from puppy mills tend to require a great deal of medical expenses and the cost of the vet bills can be painfully expensive. If you would like to donate additional funds to BRAT (or just want to learn more about what the heck a Basenji is) feel free to check out their website: www.basenjirescue.org

A big heartfelt thank you and "Ba-roooooo" goes out to all who purchased items from me at this event or donated money. :)

Art Hop Fashion Show PREVIEW!

2008-08-29T08:53:00.000-04:00

The Art Hop Fashion Show is almost here! Check out these exclusive preview photos of Happy Fantastic Designs that will be going down the runway. This year the show should be excellent as there are a greater number of designers AND a professional modeling agency (Fusion Management Group) AND hair salon (Pure Salon) involved as well! WOW!!!

Strut 3: An Art Hop Fashion Event
Friday September 5
7pm and 9pm
Large tent next to Lake Champlain Chocolates
Pine St.
Burlington, VT

BeCause Craft Show

2008-04-21T10:31:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all who came to the "BeCause Craft Show" where I donated 50% of my profits to Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). Basenjis are known as the African barkless dog and are intelligent, curious, and fascinating dogs. BRAT is a non-profit dog rescue organization made up of a truly wonderful + caring group of volunteers. BRAT recently acquired 30+ basenjis from a puppy mill that was going out of business. Most of these dogs are in very bad shape and in desperate need of medical care. :( Many of the females are pregnant and the number of basenji's needing vet care and homes will soon rise to 40-50. These dogs have never felt the caring touch of a human and are timid, skinny, little bundles of fur. It will take 4-6 months to rehabilitate these dogs and to prepare them for their forever home (all are in caring foster homes with BRAT volunteers).

My dog Happy came from BRAT and she even made it to the fundraiser to help teach people about basenjis and to model my line of canine couture. Happy was a retired breeding dog and had bounced around between 4-5 homes before she came to live with me. When I got her she was lonely, terrified, and afraid to trust anyone. She is now 16 tears old and over the years she has blossomed into a truly wonderful dog! She is my loyal companion and I love her so much that I named my art/design business after her.

With your help I was able to raise almost $65 dollars. My parents have agreed to match whatever money I was able to raise making it a total of $130. In total, that will cover the cost of 1-2 vet examinations for homeless Basenji dogs. YIPPEE!!!

Happy Fantastic's Wild Birthday Party

2007-12-13T21:04:00.001-05:00

HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

As many of you know, I named my business after my dog Miss Happy Fantastic. Today my little muse turned a whopping 16 years old. That is close to 90 in dog years!!! Hope you get a good chuckle out of Happy's silly party photos!

More Birthday Pics

2007-12-13T20:54:00.001-05:00

HAPPY FANTASTIC EVENT!!!

2007-11-01T19:48:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, November 3rd, I will be selling my work on Church Street from 10am - 5pm outside of Made Boutique (near Ben & Jerry's). I will have a selection of corduroy handbags, jacquard ribbon belts, baby + toddler long sleeved-tees, hand-knit hats, and silly pins n' magnets! Plus, Made Boutique is starting to get in cool, new stuff for the holidays that would make the perfect gifts and stocking stuffers.

What a great way to get a head start on holiday shopping!!!

Calvin Cuddles Wins First Prize at Shelburne Museum!!!

2007-09-17T20:07:00.000-04:00

Shelburne, VT - - Sept. 16, 2007

BIG NEWS! At the "Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs" Calvin Cuddles, my 3 year old basenji, won 1st place in the annual dog costume parade. This is very exciting as we have tried to win for 4 years now. Calvin was dressed as the Ticonde-Rover as a tribute to the majestic steamboat Ticonderoga which is a prominent display at the museum. Calvin's costume was designed by moi, Joanne Kalisz a Rhode Island School of Design graduate who now lives in Burlington, VT.

Even better, we raised almost $150 dollars for Basenji Rescue from the sale of my dog themed clothing and handbags and doggie accessories. :)

STRUT: An Art Hop Fashion Event

2007-09-03T07:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Fantastic Designs will be participating in STRUT: An ART HOP FASHION EVENT. This year there will be 2 different fashion shows (and I will be in both!). Street-style, dresses, and couture will be on Friday September 7th at 9pm. Jewelry, accessories, kids, and dogs will be on Saturday September 8th at 3pm. My designs will be for sale before and after each show. Both Fashion Events take place at 27 Sears Lane (off of Pine St) in Burlington, VT.

ONE World Market on August 15

2007-08-09T14:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Fantastic Designs will have a selection of new fall handbags and belts at the ONE World Market on Wednesday, August 15 from 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm. The market will be held in City Hall Park (if it rains it will be held in the Contois Auditorium in City Hall). The ONE World Market is a great outdoor market with an international vibe featuring products from over 30 Vermont-owned and run businesses. The ONE World Market will be a great place to buy gifts, art, crafts, multicultural items, jewelry, and yummy foods. For more info please contact Jim White at 860-1417, ext 102 or email jwhite@cvoeo.org. Check out the recent newspaper publications below: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070726/BUSINESS/707260301/1003/NEWSWEEK http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070717/NEWS02/707170326

Sidewalk SALE at Made Boutique

2007-07-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

I will have a great selection of my designs on SALE at Made Boutique's Sidewalk Sale this Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from 11am to 7pm (I will be at the Art Market on Saturday). We will have a tent set up outside of Olympia Sports (a few stores down from Ben and Jerry's). I will have both short-sleeved and long-sleeved silk-screened tees on sale up to 50 percent off as well as jewelry, belts, bags, and accessories. Additional artists will also be participating in the Made Boutique Sale so it is a great way to support local artists and designers. Plus, it is Made Boutiques 1 year anniversary and EVERYTHING in the store will be 15 percent off. Even better, Made Boutique sale racks will have clothing that is up to 75 percent off!!! Listed below are the local artists who are also participating in the sale.

Wednesday, 11am-3:30pm: Holly from Misshawklet Yarns
Thursday, 11am-7pm: Happy Fantastic Designs and Stacie Mincher Designs (who makes those awesome zipper pins)
Friday, 11am-7pm: Happy Fantastic Designs
Saturday, 11am-7pm: A variety of wonderful jewelers including Kacey from Sub Six Studios
Sunday, 11am-5pm: Happy Fantastic Designs and Ferocious Textiles (very cool bohemian silk-screened home goods like pillow, placemats, and napkins)

Have a Happy Fantastic Day!
-Joanne + Happy (the best dressed dog in Burlington)

ONE World Market: Wed July 25

2007-07-18T21:05:00.000-04:00

Happy Fantastic Designs will be participating in the ONE World Market on Wednesday, July 25th which will be held in City Hall Park from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm (Contois Auditorium in City Hall will serve as the rain location).

The ONE World Market will be a great outdoor market event featuring products from over 30 Vermont-owned and run businesses. The ONE World Market will be a fantastic place to buy gifts, art, crafts, multicultural items, jewelry, and Vermont foods.

Welcome to Happy Fantastic Designs!

2007-07-09T23:34:00.000-04:00

This is my first time ever writing a blog -- and it is blogtastic!

On Friday, July 6th I participated in Studio STK's DIY Show and Sell along with my fellow Burlington Craft Mafia members Erinn (Urban Farmgirl) and Kacey (Subsixstudios). I met some truely wonderful artists and customers and (drum roll please) sold a dress!!! I must admit that at first I was a little sad that as I was so proud of the dress, but now I am absolutely ecstatic!

Seriously, on July 10th I will be bringing more Happy Fantastic bubble dresses and strip tees to Made Boutique (www.madeboutique.com). Photos will be coming soon.

This past Saturday I made some tie-dye onsies and infant tees for the art market and they were a hit! I will do my best to make a few in adult sizes with hand painted peace signs and/or spirograph prints on them.

Until then have a Happy Fantastic day!

Happy Fantastic Designs

Women’s Festival of Crafts

Tutu-tastic!

New Product Alert! Trick-or-Treat Bags

New Website!!!

New Belts!!!

Putting the FUN in Fundraising!

Happy Fantastic Fabric Fabrication!

Silk-Screening Away!!!

New Baby Onesies for Spring!!!

I just finished a photo shoot of baby onesies for spring! Come stop by the Burlington Farmers Market (March 26) or my Etsy store (http://www.etsy.com/shop/happyfantastic) to shop for Happy Fantastic baby gifts. ♥

Raising Money for Basenji Rescue at the BeCause Craft Show

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the Burlington Farmers Market this Saturday 10am-2pm. The market takes place in Memorial Auditorium (250 Main St).SUPER SALE on children's fleece hats with ear flaps.Just 10 bucks each!YIPEE!!!

Happy Fantastic Designs is now at A Passion for Pets!!!

Queen City Craft Bazzar!!!

Strut: An Art Hop Fashion Event

Childrens belts are FINALLY finished!!! :)

I am OBSESSED with Dog Collars!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To Dye For

Burlington's Own Winter Farmers' Market!

A Happy Fantastic Birthday!!!

Home Fur the Holidays: Update

Switchplates!

Home Fur the Holidays

BRAT Fundraiser

Women's Festival of Crafts :)

Hand-Knit Hats!!!

Thanks PFW, Love BRAT

Puggy Pugtastic GMPR Pug Social

BRAT Fundraiser a Success!

Finally!

Getting Ready for Autumn

Fall Belts

Queen City Craft Bazaar

BeCAUSE Craft Show a HUGE Success!!!

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the beCAUSE Craft Show

Happy Fantastic On-line Fundraiser for BRAT

HAPPY FANTASTIC LOVES OUR FURRY FRIENDS!!!

"Buy Handmade" + "Buy Local First!" event @ The Bobbin

Pug Social

Shelburne Museum Goes to the Dogs / BRAT Fundraiser

Art Hop Fashion Show PREVIEW!

BeCause Craft Show

Happy Fantastic's Wild Birthday Party

More Birthday Pics

HAPPY FANTASTIC EVENT!!!

Calvin Cuddles Wins First Prize at Shelburne Museum!!!

STRUT: An Art Hop Fashion Event

ONE World Market on August 15

Sidewalk SALE at Made Boutique

ONE World Market: Wed July 25

Welcome to Happy Fantastic Designs!

Happy Fantastic Designs will be at the Burlington Farmers Market this Saturday 10am-2pm. The market takes place in Memorial Auditorium (250 Main St).
SUPER SALE on children's fleece hats with ear flaps.
Just 10 bucks each!
YIPEE!!!