velvet klaw

Take the "Shop Local" Pledge & Buy Handmade!

2011-12-11T18:25:00.000-08:00

You may have seen it on ABC news. Many Americans are promising to spend, at least part, of their holiday gift budgets, on items "Made in America!" Locally, Yelp has asked shoppers to take their "Yelp Shops Local Pledge" and buy from local shops & businesses. We'd like to add the "Buy Handmade" pledge to your list of pledges! Handmade products are great gifts and when you buy directly from the artists who created them, you get that extra personal touch by knowing where your product came from. It's almost like getting something custom made since handmade products are not made in mass production like some items from overseas. Where can you find these unique handmade gifts? Well, if you missed our Holiday Hit List last weekend, there are still opportunities to shop from multiple artists at once at some upcoming holiday shopping events. Here are a few where Mafia members will be participating. Mark your calendars! We want to see you there!

(Almost) Last Minute Holiday Shopping
Thursday, December 15, 2011
6 pm - 9 pm
El Take It Easy
3926 30th St. - 92104
View the Facebook event

North Park Independent Bazar
Sunday, December 18, 2011
1 pm - 6 pm
Queen Bee's Art & Culture Center
3925 Ohio St. - 92104
View the Facebook event

"Sunday, Crafty Sunday" Día de los Muertos! - October 16th!

2011-09-25T15:04:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since we've hosted a Sunday, Crafty Sunday event, so what better way to bring those back than with a Day of the Dead celebration? We'll have a DIY crafting table where you can make a fun craft to take with you, there'll also be a DJ, food, our own ofrenda (or altar), and of course - crafty vendors!* The event will be at the Centro Culteral de las Raza in Balboa Park. You don't want to miss this one!

Learn more about the history of el Día de los Muertos!

Sunday, Crafty Sunday -
Día de los Muertos
Sunday, October 16th
Centro Culteral de la Raza in Balboa Park
2004 Park Blvd., 92101
Noon - 6pm

*Download the vendor app. or email us for more info.
Send emails to - kim@sandiegonorthparkcraftmafia.com

Give Some Old Shoes a Makeover!

2011-08-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Do you have some old shoes that aren’t looking so good anymore, but you just can’t bring yourself to get rid of them? Why not give them a makeover? I saw this post made on the La Sophia blog for some fabulously fun sequined shoes! Check out her project here. Too cute, so I decided to give this project a try. I found a pair of fabric shoes that had water stains on them, so they were perfect candidates for this project. I love how they turned out!

Supplies Needed:
• A pair of shoes to recycle
• Modge Podge
• Sequins & plastic gems (in various shapes)
• Confetti (I used paper & mylar)
• Glitter (I used a fine cut glitter that had stars in it.)
• Seed beads
• Jewel It glue (for the sequins & gems)
• Paint brush
• Newspaper or freezer paper

Start by spreading out some paper to cover your work area. I use freezer paper so that I can pour the Modge Podge and all my decorations out on my work surface. I began by applying large pieces of the mylar confetti that I bought at my local dollar store. This will be the base layer. Then I added pieces of the paper confetti, from the same store, and also a few sequins with the Jewel It glue. The paper confetti will add some dimension to your layers. For a smoother look, only use the larger, flat pieces. I decided that I was going to go for a dimensional and layered look.

After that dried a bit I could see areas that I had missed and added more confetti. Then more sequins. Next I added some of the plastic gems. I would leave no space unadorned.

After the glue on the gems had dried I added some of the glitter by brushing it on with the Modge Podge. I brushed the glitter over some of the sequins and it really made them sparkle! After the glitter dried I added more sequins and a few more gems. I noticed that there were some areas around the foot opening that needed attention, so I added some seed beads to fill in the gaps. Take a break and let it all dry overnight.

The next day you can look at your project with “fresh eyes” and see if you think you need to add anything more. If not, then you are done with decorating and ready to apply an even top coat of Modge Podge over the entire surface. You don’t have to cover the gems if you don’t want to. They should hold just fine. I recommend letting the shoes dry for a couple of days before wearing. That will give you time to put together the perfect outfit to show off your latest creation!

Check out the San Diego North Park Craft Mafia's monthly newsletters for more crafty fun!

Time For Friday Night Liberty - July 1st!

2011-06-28T14:37:00.001-07:00

The summer is continuing with the next Friday Night Liberty event on July 1st from 5 pm - 8 pm! Get the holiday weekend started off right! Come to the NTC Promenade at Liberty Station where you will find galleries and art studios are open to visitors. We've also invited some crafty vendors to set up around the venue. Be sure to check out all the great stuff there! Admission is FREE and there's always lots of parking. Be sure to stop by the Velvet Klaw Studio located in Barracks 19 building!

Vendors to Include:
Jewels of Friendship, Lillie's Soap Co., Lisa's Ribbons, Mai Couture Shoppe, R. Priest Ellgy Co., Rochelle DiMaggio, Samari Designs, Sweet Girl Boutique, TaBou Treasures, Tropicoso, & With Heart By Elaine.

For more info. about Friday Night Liberty Visit:

http://www.ntcpromenade.com/what.php

Show Your Support For Skating in San Diego - Tonight!

2011-06-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

The battle to save San Diego's last roller rink is far from over. One developer has backed out, but others may be planning to submit proposals. We just don't know what is going to happen, so this is where YOU can help. Please attend tonight's "Linda Vista Community Coffee Hour". to be held at Bayside Community Center. District 6 Councilmember, Lori Zapf, will be in attendance. This is an opportunity for you to let her know that you support Skateworld and want to see it remain as a full-time roller skating rink! Let you voice be heard. If you can't make the meeting, you can email Lori Zapf at: loriezapf@sandiego.gov

We hope to see you there in your "Save Our Skateworld" t-shirts!

Linda Vista Community Coffee Hour
Bayside Community Center
2202 Comstock Street - 92111
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Come See Us Tonight!

2011-06-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

It's the first Friday Night Liberty of the summer! Stop by the studio and see what's going on! Galleries and art studios are open this evening, plus there will be a great line up of crafty vendors set up around the venue. It's all FREE admission and lots of parking. It's a great way to kick off the weekend!

* Fork Dress by Osbaldo Ahumada

Vendors to Include:
Dots Jewelry, Lulu Sweetheart, Casey Withers Photography, Vee Y Design, Laura Mulder, Reents Pottery, Wink Artisans, p-starr, R. Priest Ellgy Co., & With Heart By Elaine.

For more info. about Friday Night Liberty Visit:

http://www.ntcpromenade.com/what.php

Read the Latest in the Fight to Save Our Skateworld!

2011-05-26T21:56:00.001-07:00

For those of you who know that I skate with San Diego Roller Derby at Skateworld, you know that I am also involved with the fight to save the city's last remaining roller rink. I have been working with the Friends of Skateworld, a non-profit group dedicated to saving this historic building and the roller rink it houses. Today the U-T reported that MRW, the development firm that was working with Bayside to take over the property and redevelop it into a "mixed-use" venue, has backed out of the project. Though it is uncertain whether Skateworld will be allowed to remain and serve the community as it has since 1975, this news brings some hope that we will see that happen. Skating has had a huge resurgence in the past several years. Why take away the last rink in the City of San Diego?

Read the story in its entirety here -
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/may/26/developer-pulls-out-skateworld-redevelopment-proje/

What Are You Doing This Sunday? - Going to the North Park Festival of Arts, Of Course!!

2011-05-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

This year's event will be happening on Sunday, May 15th from 10 am to 6 pm along University Ave. between 30th and 32nd Streets. The San Diego North Park Craft Mafia will have our own section of vendors called the "Spring Line Up"! All SLU vendors are artists and crafters who take pride in the things they create. Each year we try to bring together a variety of vendors with an assortment of creative products. This year we have added something new - a "Craft Lounge"! Stop by, relax, and get some crafting time in at the lounge. Bring a project to work on and meet other crafty folks! The first 100 visitors to the Craft Lounge will receive a free swag bag full of crafty items like stickers, beads, coupons, and more!

The NP Festival of Arts is always a lot of fun with something for everyone. Entertainment will include live music, dance performances, kids art block, a "quick-draw" event, and a beer and food tasting block! Admission to the event is FREE (you will need to purchase a ticket for the beer/food tasting) and parking is available in the 30th St. parking structure. You can even get free valet parking for your bicycle! This is a great event for the whole family!

Here's a list of all the vendors you will find in the Spring Line Up section. We hope to see you there!-

Andrea Zuill - www.badbird.etsy.com
Artista Muerta (Craft Mafia Member) – www.artistamuerta.com
Attic 802 - www.attic802.etsy.com
Be Bop Baby Clothing - www.bebopbabyclothing.com
Bella Cute - www.bellacute.etsy.com
Belle Pepper Couture (Craft Mafia Member) – www.bellepeppercouture.com
BottleHood - www.bottlehood.com
i wish i had a penguin friend - www.momoma.etsy.com
Jewels of Friendship
Jonestein Thought Factory - www.etsy.com/shop/jonestein
Little Partridge - www.littlepartridge.com
Little Pink Plum - www.littlepinkplum.etsy.com
Meagan Rae Designs (Craft Mafia Member) – www.meaganraedesigns.com

Mi Bazaar Latino - www.bazaarlatino.etsy.com

Naughty Blonde Redux - www.naughtyblonderedux.com
PenguinBot - www.penguinbot.com
R Priest Ellgy Co - www.rpriestellgyco.etsy.com
Sasswatch - www.sasswatch.com
Vee. Y Design - www.veeydesign.com

Velvet Klaw (Craft Mafia Member) – www.velvetklaw.com

Zedena Designs - www.zedenadesigns.com

Visit - www.northparkfestivalofarts.com for all the latest info!

Join Us For a Night of Fashion at "Friday Night Liberty" - May 6th!

2011-05-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

You're invited to the NTC Promenade Arts & Cultural District for a FREE evening of happenings. On May 6th, Arts Meets Fashion, collaboration between local fashion designers & artists offers an outdoor dance performance at Legacy Plaza. Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater presents a preview of New Voices with 2 sections from "Hunters Trilogy" and a cast of 10 dancers. Followed by a Fashion Show & Open Catwalk in the Rose Garden. See featured designer's fashions and then join in the action yourself! Show up wearing fashions from local designers, fill out a note card for the MC to read, and strut your stuff!

Be sure to stop by the Velvet Klaw Studios for a hands-on screen printing and t-shirt reconstruction demo! Bring a light colored t-shirt and print your own shirt to cut up, restyle and take home! Screen printing is a fun way to create your own fashions!

There will also be several crafty vendors who will be set up around the venue selling their wares. Look for them outside the Barracks 19 & Visions Art Museum building! It's the perfect time to get some Mother's Day shopping done with lots of unique items available for purchase. Check 'em out - Attic 802, Hey Hot Stems, Little Pink Plum, Tabou Treasures, Tora Jewelry, Vee Y. Design, Wink Artisans, Zabana Essentials, & Zedena Designs.

Download the event flyer!

Friday, May 6th
5 pm - 8 pm
2640 Historic Decatur Road, SD, 92106
For more information call (619) 573-9260 or visit www.NTCPromenad...

** Photo from the Mannequin Project. Courtesy of Debbie Solan.

Crafty Conspiracy of Stitching

2011-04-27T11:37:00.001-07:00

The San Diego NP Craft Mafia hosts a monthly crafting event called Crafty Conspiracy. It's a casual evening of crafting fun that happens at the Velvet Klaw studio the fourth Tuesday each month. People work on everything from knitting & crochet to computer arts. Basically, any project that's portable is fine to bring. It's great fun, so now we are adding a second event dedicated to those who like to stitch it up on their sewing machines! Since we don't have room for machines at our regular craft night, we're adding this special night where machines are welcome. Bring your own machine and meet other "Stitchies" who share a love for creating! We'll supply an iron and ironing board, cutting table, and other incidentals, you bring everything else you need to create! Space is very limited, so please email us if you are interested in attending - info@velvetklaw.com - or have any questions. We hope you will join us!

Crafty Conspiracy of Stitching
Tuesday, May 10th, 2011
7 pm - 9pm at the Velvet Klaw Studios
Suite 203 (upstairs)
2690 Historic Decatur Rd., 92106

The Spring Line Up is Coming! Vendors Should Apply NOW!!

2011-02-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Spring is on its way and the Craft Mafia crew is getting ready for our 4th Annual "Spring Line Up" event! What's the Spring Line Up (SLU)? It's our annual show which takes place within the North Park Festival of the Arts in North Park. This year's event will be happening on Sunday, May 15th from 10 am to 6 pm along University Ave. between 30th and 32nd Streets. The SLU is the Craft Mafia's own section of vendors who will be selling some fantastic crafty items. All SLU vendors are artists and crafters who take pride in the things they create. Each year we try to bring together a variety of vendors with an assortment of creative products. The NP Festival of the Arts is always a lot of fun with something for everyone. Entertainment will include live music, dance performances, a food court, kids zone, hand-on art booths, and a beer and food tasting court! Admission to the event is FREE (you will need to purchase a ticket for the beer/food tasting) and parking is available in the 30th St. parking structure. This is a great event for the whole family and a great opportunity for crafty vendors to show their wares!

Interested in applying for a vendor booth in the Spring Line Up section? The vendor application has been posted! Simply download the app., read all the info, and send in your completed application and payment. Space is limited, so don't delay! In addition to the standard 10'x10 size space, the SLU is the ONLY vendor section at this event to offer 5'x10' spaces for those artists who don't need quite so large a space. Applications postmarked by February 28th are eligible for an early bird discount! That's $50 in savings off a 10'x10' and $25 off a 5'x10'! We hope you will join us!

Download the vendor application here! (PDF)

Support the Arts in San Diego - Don't Let The City Council Make Cuts to Art Programs!

2010-12-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

Join us and let the city council know that you support the arts in San Diego. Please attend this meeting and tell Councilmember DeMaio not to make these cuts to art programs. Let him know that San Diegans support the arts and artists!

Councilmember DeMaio Schedules December 14 Budget Town Hall at NTC Promenade Arts & Cultural District: Proposes Cuts to Arts Funding

Dear San Diego Arts and Culture Colleagues:

You may have heard about the proposal from San Diego City Councilmember Carl DeMaio to significantly cut arts and culture funding in his “Roadmap to Recovery.”
You can read about the cuts at Voice of San Diego (The proposed cuts to arts and culture come on page 37 of the Roadmap PDF.)

Councilmember DeMaio is holding a series of public Budget Town Halls to brief San Diegans on the Road to Recovery plan, answer questions and listen to their ideas.

A Town Hall is scheduled for Tuesday, December 14 from 6pm to 8pm at the NTC Command Center, 2640 Historic Decatur Road. The Command Center is in the heart of the city’s planned 26-building Civic, Arts and Cultural District at the former Naval Training Center.

Already 7 buildings are renovated and are home to over 40 Civic, Arts and Cultural organizations and artists - many of which will be impacted by the Councilmember’s proposed cuts.

Representatives from arts and cultural organizations are encouraged to attend the Forum and can RSVP at Roadmap to Recovery Facebook Page and click the "I'm Attending" button in the upper right corner.

In advance of the Town Hall, on Thursday, December 9 at 10 AM, These Days on KPBS will air a segment about this discussion. Dalouge Smith, CEO of San Diego Youth Symphony and outgoing Chair of San Diego Regional Arts & Culture Coalition, and Seema Sueko, Artistic Director of Mo`olelo Performing Arts Company, will be on air.

Please tune in (89.5 FM or www.kpbs.org ), and feel free to call in to join the conversation.

Alan Ziter, Executive Director
NTC Foundation
2801 Rosecrans
San Diego, CA 92106
619 573-9315 - phone
619 764-4995 - fax
aziter@ntcfoundation.org
www.NTCPromenade.com for the NTC Promenade Arts & Cultural District

Another Holiday Hit List is History - We'll See You Next Year!

2010-12-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's sad, but the 4th Annual Holiday Hit List has come and gone. I hope that everyone had a great time that day. I really enjoy talking with all the vendors and checking out everyone's wares. If you missed this year's event, you can read about it online and shop online from most of our vendors. Check out the two articles and visit our vendor line up page!

The San Diego UT covered our 4th Annual Holiday Hit List with two articles!

"Crafty Holiday Treats"
"Christmas Gifts With an Edge Found at North Park Crafts Fair"

Shop from the vendors who participated at this year's Holiday Hit List! Visit the Craft Mafia blog!

Holiday Hit List Happens Tomorrow!

2010-12-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

Join me tomorrow for the 4th Annual Holiday Hit List at the Masonic Hall in North Park! Get your holiday shopping done and buy from local artists & crafters. There will also be a polymer clay demo where you can try your hand at this fun craft! Door open at noon, but don't be late if you want to snag a swag bag! See you there!

Swag Preview!

2010-12-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

Part of getting ready for the big Holiday Hit List show is the swag bag compilation! I always look forward to seeing all the great things that we get from our vendors, and it's a fun evening for all the Mafia members as we put them together. Really, it is! Take a peek at this year's swag. There's only 100 bags to give out (1 per family), so don't be late for this year's Hit List! For more info about all this, and the Holiday Hit List, visit the North Park Craft Mafia blog!

North Park Craft Mafia - San Diego, CA: 4th Annual Holiday Hit List Vendor List!

2010-11-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

North Park Craft Mafia - San Diego, CA: 4th Annual Holiday Hit List Vendor List!: "Are you counting the days 'til the 2010 Holiday Hit List? We are! Get a sneak peek at the vendors who will be at this year's event! Check..."

Get a Peek at the New Velvet Klaw Studio This Friday!

2010-11-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

After much planning, it's finally becoming a reality! Velvet Klaw will be opening a screen printing studio in the NTC Promenade at Liberty Station. Where's that? Liberty Station is located at what used to be the Naval Training Center off Rosecrans St. in Pt. Loma. The Promenade is becoming home to many artist studios and galleries. We are so proud to be able to be a part of this growing art and cultural center! The Velvet Klaw Studio will be located in the Barracks 19 building which used to be the living quarters for those who were in training at the NTC. The building now houses several art studios and retail shops. The VK studio will offer workshops where you can learn how to screen print and will host the NPCM's monthly craft night events! In addition, we will have a retail area where you can find products from all the NPCM members and other artists.

This Friday is the monthly "Friday Night Liberty" event where you can walk and take a tour of the galleries and studios. Get a sneak peak at Velvet Klaw's new home efore the official Grand Opening & Reception on November 20th. If this is your first visit to the NTC Promenade, then you are in for a treat! Some of the studios and galleries include the Visions Art Museum, the Mandell Weiss Gallery, the San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery - and more! Also, check out the performing arts studios that feature music, dance, and martial arts. Admission to all the galleries and studios is free and there's plenty of free parking!

Friday Night Liberty
NTC Promenade at Liberty Station
Velvet Klaw Studio - Preview Opening
2690 Historic Decatur Rd. - Studio 203 (Barracks 19, upstairs)
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

October 6th - It's a Roller Disco Birthday Party for Skateworld!

2010-09-27T10:28:00.001-07:00

The Friends of Skateworld are hosting a birthday party for Skateworld! On Wednesday, October 6th, Skateworld will be celebrating 35 years of rollin' good times in San Diego with a Roller Disco Birthday Party! Please mark your calendars and invite your friends! This is sure to be a fantastically fun event complete with costume contests and birthday cake! Get your best 70's outfits ready! Admission is $7 and includes skate rental! With your paid admission you will receive a ticket for an opportunity drawing and could win a great prize - like a pair of skates! You won't want to miss this party!

Be sure to visit www.SanDiegoSkateworld.com for their latest skate session schedule. They are OPEN for weekly sessions and available for birthday parties and special events. We'll see you out on the floor!

Skate & Eat - and Help Save San Diego's Last Roller Rink!

2010-09-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

Did you know that San Diego has only ONE roller rink in the entire city? Skateworld has been keepin' the good times rollin' since 1975 and now they are in danger of being forced to close their rink in Linda Vista. We can't let that happen. The Friends of Skateworld (FOSW) is a nonprofit group that is working diligently to see that San Diego keeps this rink. Please visit their website and read about what has been going on with the city council. The FOSW is also organizing some fun fundraising events to help get the public involved. ALL proceeds from these events goes to the fund to help save Skateworld! Don't forget to sign the online petition and send letters of support to the city council!

Skate For Skateworld - Saturday Morning Skate!

September 18, 2010 - 10:00am - 1:00pm

Skateworld - 6907 Linda Vista Rd.

The FOSW is hosting a special Saturday Morning skate session at Skateworld! Have your morning coffee and then grab your skates and get out on the floor! Admission is $5 and skate rental is FREE! All ages are welcome, so bring the family! What a great way to start your weekend!

Eat For Skateworld - Pizza Fundraiser!

September 18, 2010 - 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Joe's Pizza - 5583 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. - 92117

Do you like pizza? The Friends of Skateworld invite you to a Pizza Fundraiser at Joe's Pizza! Here's how it works; come to Joe's Pizza on Sat., Sept. 18th between 5 pm and 9 pm, order the pizza buffet and let them know that you are there to support Skateworld. All the proceeds will go to help save the rink! It's simple - and tasty!

Joe's pizza buffet features a variety of pizzas, salad bar, bread, pasta, soups, and dessert pizza! All for $10 per person! They also serve beer & mojitos!

Get a Taste of University Heights This Sunday!

2010-09-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

What is the University Heights Arts Open & the Taste of UH? This is a collaborative event with the University Heights Community Development Corp. and Taste of University Heights. So, get ready for lots of fun, food, and art! It all happens on Sunday, September 12, 2010, from noon to 5 p.m. So, what will be waiting for you in University Heights? Stroll through the quaint neighborhood while enjoying sample delicacies from some of University Heights diverse restaurants. Then, enjoy a free self guided tour of the arts. The UH Arts Open showcases the works of over 100 new as well as celebrated artists, playwrights, performers and musicians from the San Diego region enlivening the historic University Heights community. The UHAO incorporates local businesses, schools, churches, theaters, and a free shuttle tour of artist studios in the area.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Teachers Annex Building located at the intersection of Park Blvd. and El Cajon Blvd. The grassy open area will serve as the Artwalk area, featuring visual artists of all mediums, as well as historic groups, community groups, the taste ticket will call, free parking and shuttle start. Be sure to stop by the North Park Craft Mafia booth! Members Meagan Rae Designs, Artista Muerta, and Velvet Klaw will all be there to represent! Live music, performances, and theater will be featured across the street at Swedenborg Hall.

Get more info online at www.UHarts.org. Catch a free shuttle that will take you on your Taste and artist studio tour throughout the day. The UH Arts Open is FREE, but you will need a ticket for the "Taste". They are $15 in advance or $20 the day of event. This includes entry to raffles with prizes!

When: September 12, 2010 , Noon - 5pm Where: Arts Open Artwalk & Taste ‘will call’ begins at the Teachers Annex Building: Park Blvd/El Cajon blvd. 4100 Normal Street San Diego, CA 92103 Reception: Friday, September 10th, 7-9pm Swedenborg Hall, 1531 Tyler Ave San Diego CA 92103 Contact: 619-508-4075 or visit www.UHarts.org

Visual Craft Attack - This Weekend!

2010-08-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

Looking for something to do this Sat? Come to our show at Visual Art Supply on Adams Ave from noon to 5 pm! You'll find lots of crafty vendors & live & DJ'd music. Sound good? Don't forget to check out what Visual Art Supply has to offer in the way of art supplies - lot's of good stuff.

Vendors will include:

Linda Castagnola

MF Designs

Kiki Smith

Starfire Design

Paris Davis Designs

Gee Whiz Designs

B's Bows

Neopolitan Ecowear

Found

and more!!!!!!!

Visual Craft Attack: a Raid on the Senses
Saturday, August 7th
3524 Adams Ave. - 92116

Join Us At The "Support Skateworld Rally"!!

2010-07-10T22:44:00.000-07:00

Come one, come ALL to our Support Skateworld Roller Rink RALLY!! Free admission and skate rental! Bring your signs and banners and skate with us inside the rink and on the sidewalks in front of the rink. Be seen and be heard! Show your support for San Diego's ONLY remaining roller rink. Show the city council that you want Skateworld to stay! Tell everyone you know & let's get everyone out there! You can bet that members of San Diego Roller Derby will be on-hand to show their support!

Download the event flyer!

Help promote the event on Yelp!

Sign the online petition!

Skateworld Rally!
6907 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego - 92111
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
6 pm - 9 pm

Keep Skating in San Diego - Save Skateworld!

2010-06-30T17:45:00.000-07:00

I grew up skating at the Palisade Gardens roller rink on University Ave. in North Park. Many Saturday afternoons were spent there and I developed a love for the sport of roller skating. When the rink closed its doors in 1985 it was a great loss to the community of North Park. I hadn't roller skated for a number of years, but picked it up again when I discovered women's flat-track roller derby! I skate with San Diego Roller Derby at Skateworld, our home rink. Now the rink needs your help. Skateworld, the last remaining roller rink in the city of San Diego, is in danger of losing its lease. The San Diego Redevelopment Agency has an exclusive negotiation agreement with a private development company (MRW) for the property on which Skateworld is located. This company has indicated that they plan to redevelop the property and the future of Skateworld is uncertain.

Skateworld has been an outstanding member of the Linda Vista community for nearly 35 years. This establishment attracts visitors from all over San Diego County and has made many positive contributions to the public. Skateworld hosts fundraisers for various causes, provides family-friendly activities, and employs many who would not find jobs elsewhere, such as teens with no previous work history. Businesses adjacent to the rink are also supported by Skateworld’s patrons. Many San Diegans, who remember skating there as children, now take their own families to Skateworld. Closing this rink would be a devastating loss for all of San Diego County.

Please join all of us who love Skateworld by voicing your support of the rink to the San Diego City Council. The community of Linda Vista is represented by 6th District Council Member Donna Frye. Her phone number- 619-236-6616; email- donnafrye@sandiego.gov. Tell Ms. Frye that you do not want to see Skateworld leave Linda Vista! The rink won't be closing tomorrow, but it is in jeopardy if this deal with MRW is allowed to be approved without hearing any opposition. You can also send a letter to the ENTIRE city council with a single click! So simple! You can also show your support by signing our petition that will be presented to the City Council at a later date. There is no age limit – everyone is eligible to sign. You can sign the petition at Skateworld or sign the online petition! If you would like to help collect signatures, you can download a petition packet! All help is appreciated! Also, don't forget to join the "Friends of Skateworld Roller Rink" group on Facebook & read the new Friends of Skateworld Roller Rink blog! Thanks for your support!

What Are You Doing This Sunday?

2008-04-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

Come and spend a crafty afternoon @ Filter! I'll be there with the Mafia hosting our first installment of "Sunday, Crafty Sunday" - monthly craft shows. So, come by, grab a coffee, and get your Mother's Day shopping done too! It's supposed to be a bit cooler by the weekend, so I'll be setting up shop outside. I'm working on some new items that will hopefully be done in time. Here's the details for the show and the vendor list too!

When? Sunday, May 4th - 2008
Where? Filter (formerly the Other Side Coffee House)
4096 30th St., San Diego - 92104
12 noon to 5 p.m.
Need directions? Use this map!

Our Vendors! Come & meet 'em on Sunday!
Belle Pepper Couture, The Elegant Affair, goldiesknits, Jewelry by Jolene, I's Ha-lo Halo, Liz Avalon Designs, Lynn's Rags, Quiet Hero, stitchedbykate, Studio 1212 Ceramics, Sunshine Christine, & Velvet Klaw!

I'm Back!!

2008-04-24T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I made a post here, but I am gettin' back to it now! Just a few updates. In case you missed it - and I hope you didn't - the NPCM's Spring Line Up was a blast! We had such a great turn out and we thank everyone who attended and all our wonderful vendors who participated. You are all great!! The day is pretty much of a blur with so many things going on at once, but I know I had fun. We've posted a little slide show with photos from the day! I was pretty worn out after all the planning. I ended up coming down with bronchitis and have been out of commission for a while. Now that I am finally starting to feel better, I will be jumping back into things beginning with a new monthly show! Join me for "Sunday Crafty Sunday" at Filter (formerly the Other Side Coffee House) in North Park. Each month we'll be showcasing local DIY artists and helping you to satisfy your crafting craving too! If you want to be a vendor, then click the link to the vendor app. and get that to us right away. The first show is just in time for gettin' your Mother's Day shopping done. Come on by and have a cup of great coffee with us!

Sunday Crafty Sunday
May 4th @ Filter - 4095 30th St., SD, CA 92104
12 - 5 pm.

We Want You in the Spring Line Up!

2008-02-06T16:41:00.000-08:00

The San Diego North Park Craft Mafia is hosting a huge spring spectacular show—the Spring Line Up to be held on Sunday, March 30th at the Masonic Hall in North Park! There'll be crafty vendors, live music, entertainment, and more! Are you interested in joining us to be one of our many fabulous vendors? Read all the FAQs here and go to the application page. The deadline for applications is February 22nd—don’t delay!

The "Holiday Hit List" Was a Hit!!

2007-12-09T13:47:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a day! The San Diego North Park Craft Mafia's first event - the Holiday Hit List - was a blast! The day started out rainy and cold, but warmed up a bit and turned out to be nice. We had a wonderful group of vendors with a wide variety of items for our holiday shoppers to choose from. It was a great turn out! Thanks so much to everyone for coming down to the Bar Pink Elephant and thanks to all the folks from BPE for having us there. We hope that everyone a had a good time, we sure did! We'll be posting some photos from the event on the group blog. Boy, am I tired today- but there's no time to rest. The SDNPCM is already planning more events for next year. Check back for updates!

Come to the Fall Bazaar!

2007-11-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well, the holidays are fast approaching and the shopping season has begun. I'll be at the Learnin' Tots Fall Bazaar in Old Town with fellow mafia member Penni Hawkins. Come see us! There's more shows coming up, so check back here to find out more. And, don't forget about the San Diego North Park Craft Mafia's first production - the Holiday Hit List! Deadline to apply is tomorrow, Nov. 3rd.

Learnin' Tots Fall Bazaar
Wednesday, Nov. 7th
11 am - 1 pm
Caltrans Building Courtyard in Old Town

Psssst....Did You Hear?

2007-10-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

The (San Diego) North Park Craft Mafia is hosting our first event this December- The Holiday Hit List! We've been working with our friends at Bar Pink Elephant, in North Park, to bring this event to you. What is the Holiday Hit List? Well, it will be a holiday shopping social- indie style. We'll have a gang of crafty vendors who will be there selling fantastic, hand-crafted items for those on your shopping "hit list", a DJ to provide some hit tunes, a fashion show- and other surprises. Not only will you be able to enjoy some fantastic drinks and music, you can get your holiday shopping done at the same time. Don't miss it! On Oct. 17th we'll begin accepting applications for vendors who want to join up with us at this event. Check out our FAQs page for more info. I'll be posting updates here and on our website!

The North Park Craft Mafia's Holiday Hit List
Saturday, December 8th, 2007
3829 30th St., San Diego
12 noon - 6 pm

Visit HolidayHitList.com for more information!

It's Time for Oktoberfest!!

2007-09-19T19:05:00.000-07:00

I know, it's not Oktober yet - but we're starting the party early! I will be there with the (SanDiego) North Park Craft Mafia this upcoming weekend! Join us on Saturday and Sunday, September 22 - 23 in the Balboa Park Club Ballroom, 1450 El Prado in fabulous Balboa Park. This fantastic festival is put together by the International Dance Association of San Diego County. The festival runs Saturday from 1-4 pm with free beginner’s dance lessons. Then on Sunday from 12:30 to 4:45 pm, don’t miss the costumed dancers performing traditional folk dances. Dancing, vendors and great German food—fun for the whole family! Hope to see you there!

For more info, call (619) 422-1584 or email info@idasdc.org.

The North Park Craft Mafia Has Arrived!!

2007-09-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true. It has been in the works and it's now official. The North Park Craft Mafia has arrived in San Diego. The three founding members are Penni- owner of P-Starr, Svea- owner of Belle Pepper Couture, and me- owner of Velvet Klaw. We three are so excited to be given this opportunity and we are proud to be members of the Craft Mafia ™ family! We have some events being planned and we'll be out and about in our city making our presence known. We'll be sharing more about our plans later. For now, we will be working together to make this group great and to have fun!

Watch Uncommon Threads on Aug 9!

2007-08-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

You'd better watch! Miss Penni (P-Starr) is going to be showing you how to make some nifty stuff. The show was taped last year when she was a member of the San Diego Craft Mafia. Most of the members have since moved on to other opportunities, but the show premieres next week! Here's all the info. Don't forget to TIVO!

Uncommon Threads
Episode DUCT-257

Made in the Shade
Crafting hipsters, San Diego Craft Mafia, show us how to keep cool. We make a vintage-inspired curtain and a Roman shade.

AIR TIMES:
• August 09, 2007 7:00 AM ET/PT

Come to the Walkabout!!

2007-07-02T00:29:00.000-07:00

That's right! It's time for the South Park Summer Walkabout! If you haven't been to one, it's a fun event where the local businesses stay open late and have special treats for visitors. Come check it out. I'll be there sharing a booth with two of my skating sisters - "Lucky" Penni from P-Starr and newly ordained Derby Doll Mariah, from Mia Bella's Gourmet Candles. We'll be at the Whistle Stop Bar and we'll have lots of cool stuff for sale. Check out the other vendors and shops too! Don't miss it! Here's the info;

South Park Summer Walkabout
Friday, July 20, 2007
6:30 pm - 10:00 pm

2236 Fern St. (30th & Juniper)
San Diego, CA 92104

Ross & I Will Be On Knitty Gritty - TOMORROW!!

2007-06-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

That's right! Ross and I were guest "knitsters" on Vickie Howell's show, Knitty Gritty. It was great fun and everyone we met was so nice. We made two hats from "Domiknitrix" Jennifer Stafford's new book. Don't forget to watch. Here's the listing from HGTV.com.;

Knitty Gritty
Episode DKNG-706 - Devilish Knits June 25, 2007- 7:00 AM et/pt
Whether it's Halloween, Mardi Gras, or you're just feeling a bit spunky, this snow devil knit hat will do just the trick. Knitwear designer and author of the book Dominknitrix Jennifer Stafford demonstrates her devil hat. This project involves incredibly detailed and symmetrical shaping. From a costume party to the slopes, you're sure to stand out from the crowd. The base of this devil hat can also be transformed into a knit Mohawk with a few adjustments.