My new little puppy, (not so little anymore) Belvedere the basset hound has some big goofy paws to fill as my loyal sidekick on the Doodle blog. He has been immortalized on the Quilt Doodle Designs logo. Wilson was featured on my blog as my quilting mascot for many years. As I work on my designs I am kept company by my loyal companions. I am an active quilt blogger and keep up a website where my patterns are offered. With the encouragement of family and friends, these ideas have blossomed into a line of quilt patterns that can be enjoyed by both beginner and experienced quilters. Quilt Doodle Designs started as a few sketches in a notebook one afternoon while getting ready for a quilt retreat. It was because of Judith's influence that I launched out, pen in hand, daring to be different, and unconcerned with the end result.I have always enjoyed sewing and quilting. I switched over to pen & ink only because I wearied of the need to constantly redraw due to smudging in spite of using protective paper under my hand. I began drawing in pencil, which I love because of shading, erasing for highlights, and ease of correction. It broke the power of the need to be perfect and set me on my current path.

Her book, Drawing from the Light Within: Keys to Awaken Your Creative Power, was a huge influence back when I was just discovering myself as an artist. Perhaps the most influential person for this life stage was Judith Cornell. They are all wonderful, all different, and all inspire my creative juices. I stumble upon so many creative artists as I peruse the internet, and just look at the variety of artists on this website alone. Grew up with Norman Rockwell and still consider him a favorite outstanding artist. Loved Monet since I can remember, but I have no interest in creating his kind of art. I also admire the work of my art instructor: Darcy Lee Marquis.

I have all of her work and one of her pieces hanging in my office. Needless to say, I came away with even greater appreciation for Cicely's work. A couple of weeks ago I took samples of her art to my illustration class to share with classmates and our instructor ended up using her examples to teach that day. My very favorite artist is Cicely Mary Barker, the famous self-taught fairy artist. Perhaps it will be the beginning of a new life's adventure! Secondly, whenever someone reacts to my work by thinking, 'Oh, I could do that!' To inspire them to pick up a pen, find their own style, and experience the joy of art. Our hallway is a showcase for nine of my earlier works and when I see them I'm still amazed they are my creation. The creative process, then the surprising end result. What do you enjoy the most about being an artist? I purchase them locally at an educational supply store, but they are also available online and at some art stores.

They are fat, ergonomically correct, and fit on the Micron pens I use. Another critical tool for me is the Pencil Grip, for without them my hands wouldn't be up to the hours of drawing. What are your favorite brand(s) of pens or markers to use for your doodles?Ĭurrently I'm using the Sakura Micron pens because they do a decent job for being cost effective. Sometimes I draw just so I can have something to upload. Anything larger loses too much detail when reduced. The smaller sizes are easier to photograph and upload to the website. I've drawn several 19' x 24', but normally use either 9' x 12' or 11' x 14'.

The smallest doodle is probably about 1' x 1'.

Fun pattern doodles