Friday, February 4, 2011

Really....AGAIN!


Grams is getting snowed on...Again! It was definitely nice for a few days but it's getting old, especially with the prospect of more next week.  The store is open however I will warn you, the roads getting here are not good- very icy. I'll be here most of the day but much to my newly licensed 16 yr olds dismay, I may be closing for awhile this afternoon to pick him up after school.  The ultimate in embarrassment but I don't care.

Looks like the next couple of days might be a good time to stock up on Valentines goodies for rounds 3 and 4 scheduled to hit next week. We still have plenty of amour treats and what would be better than a homemade Valentine. Here are some peeks at the ATC cards, this should get those creative juices flowing-
Brenda received this Valentine from her aunt on her 1st Valentine's Day.
 Brenda soldered the charms herself - man, we have talented teachers and students!  

It was Kay's 1st swap and she did a fabulous job




If you are looking for a Valentine's treat we have the neatest bracelets from Nepal. These are all the rage with the tween to twenty girls but those of us much older- me-also love them. We have a shipment of 300 so come while the selection is still good. These are made to wear in multiples. I like 3; however, I have seen the younger girls do 6-9. We are hoping this will be our cash cow so we can buy a register for the front. The handwritten tickets are getting old- well not exactly this week.

The bracelets are $10.00 for one or 3 for $27.00. Valentine's is just around the corner; it's the perfect gift! 

If you are feeling brave we would love to see you but please be careful. The roads are slick- Really! Stay warm! C

Thanks for all your sweet comments and encouragement. I think I can do this.

For those of you following from yesterday- 
Prince Charming's comments-
 1. why is he a Prince and not a King- he will be at the coronation
2. he's glad to know I don't have any type of addictive behavior. "How do you know? " I smugly ask. " It's a twelve step program baby not 10! " oops!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

A Fairy Tale

Another snow day here in OKC. It's amazing how much you can get done at home when you actually are at home. Clean house, filing done, wash caught up- yipee!

 Two posts in a row- I feel like I'm in a 10 step program- one day at a time. It does feel good and thank you to all who have left a comment. It speaks to your tenacity, loyalty and/or persistence that you even still check this thing. Thank you.

After I finish this I am going to try and make it to the store; I miss my peaceful little haven. Since I'm still at home I am at a loss on what to post - can't show you any of the new goodies. Umm...On occasion I'm asked how the heck I got the store. Guess that would be a good topic since I'm starting this whole new chapter. It was sorta a fairytale....


Once upon a time a fair queen with her king, princess and two adorable but quite rambunctious princes ruled the kingdom on 16th. It was a happy kingdom, or so the queen thought and she had many royal tasks to keep her busy. Her duties were not those of your typical royal nature such as weaving, spinning or dancing. Her royal duties included carpooling, Junior Leagueing, PTAing, mentoring and meetinging- lots and lots of meetings. The queen filled her life to the brim with stuff, all of it was good stuff to help others but it was too much. Truth be told,  she would have been wise to spend more time with the royal family and her charming castle.

The queen, however, was not alone in her busyness. She found a trusted lady in waiting who worked with her on all her crafty projects. Whether it was creating sets and costumes for plays, planning an auction, creating holiday extravaganzas, or taking the trip of a life time, the two were a team and worked well together. It seemed that prosperity and goodness would rule in the kingdom but alias like in all good fairy tales, there was a dark cloud brooding on the horizon.


One evening after the final play of the year and while working on an auction set for the next day,  (yes,  the queen was crazy I realize that now- and yes,  this is the same queen that until today, wasn't able to complete two blog posting in a row- same person I swear!)  the king made a royal proclaimation. He was leaving and the kingdom was being divided. The queen had been blindsided; she never saw this coming and after many tears, prayers, counseling (both professional and the girlfriend kind), and some excellent detective work by her very own Charlie's Angels (some day I will post about this episode- it is the only event from the past 5 yrs I wish I could relive. It's a testament to womens' intuition, wisdom, loyalty and smarts- way to go girls!)  the queen discovered that the king liked her lady in waiting even more than she did- a lot and the lady in waiting was waiting no more! 


The queen was at a loss for what to do next. She had to regain her kingdom and provide for the royal heirs. Years before she had worked for a solicitor (attorney) but it wasn't the most flexible- why prince Em was still in school- and a paralegal was definitely not the least bit creative; choosing between red or blue labels on an exhibit file was as creative as it got. She decided to go to her favorite art store, 7 Minutes Later , to see if they needed help until she could figure out her life.

 The store owner did not need help but did want to sell the store so she could have more time with her grandchildren. For months the queen said " I don't have the money, I don't have the time, I don't have the experience (she had never once set foot in the business school), I don't know what I'm doing." The shop owner was very patient and remained true to her plan. Finally one day while the royal family was vacationing in FL the shop owner asked the queen what she was willing to pay. The queen watched as the princess was flying in the sky on a para sail and she threw out a number knowing - like her daughter, it was a pie in the sky- and to her great astonishment at that moment she became a shop owner. Her friends Brown and Kathryn vowed to never leave her on the beach alone!

Now the transition began to make the store her own. Although the queen can't take credit for the name Paper Crown, it seemed so very fitting " he will give a crown of beauty for ashes" Isaiah 61:3. That is exactly what he did. He took the queen's darkest moment and turned it into the most peaceful creativity sanctuary- with a whole lot of help from some wonderful people.

Over the past 4 years, almost 5, the store has transitioned into a wonderful creative haven. This fairytale kingdom would not have happened without the help of so many. Thanks to Corrine who kept the store afloat during that 1st tumultuous year- I thank you for all your help when it was just an accomplishment some days to get out of bed.


Cheri normally isn't on her side but I've spent the past 30 mins. trying to rotate and I give- sorry Cheri!
 Thanks to Ms. Cheri. Actually Cheri has been here longer than anyone and we hope she always will. Cheri teaches 1st grade during the week and works and sings at the store on the weekends. We love your beautiful voice and contagious laughter. You are a team player and we are so lucky to have you.

Next is our beloved Franc- Franc Franke what a great name. She is our bubbly people person who makes everyone smile. I know people come in on Thursdays just to see Franc- I do. She has a way of making everyone feel welcome and completely at ease. Franc also teaches classes and has quite a following.

Jackie- how many times have I told you you are my own personal angel?! You have gone above and beyond to help the store succeed whether it's dressing Girdie, posting on your blog, or helping plan an event you have done so much simply out of the desire to help.

Thanks also to all our wonderful teachers. You have inspired so many - Holly and Donna we miss you! You Red River girls I still can't believe you drive 3 hours to teach, are we lucky or what!

 Thanks also to all our loyal customers and friends. We have all gone on this journey and many of you have been with us every step of the way. We value your support but even more your growing friendship.

So you can see,  the queen decided to create a new kingdom, one where creativity rules and she is surrounded by those of the most noble character. Like all good fairytales, this story has a Prince Charming (however instead of a white horse,  he has a white pick up and boots) but we will save that chapter for later. Let me just tell you I love the Pioneer Woman but she and the Marboro Man have nothing on this love story : ) Like all good fairy tales this has a happy ending.

That's how Paper Crown came to be and hopefully I can get to the store so you won't have another long and rambling post tomorrow. It was kinda fun and probably a little therapeutic. Just so you all know- I realize I'm not in any way, shape or form a queen and I definitely don't have a kingdom- just a fun way to tell my story!
Stay Safe and warm!    

and yes, she was my best friend!

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Snow Days!

This is what we have had to contend with the past few days- snow and a lot of it, at least for us southern girls. The weekend was 75 but by Tuesday am, 11 inches of the white fluffy stuff. Most of OKC is enjoying a good old fashion snow day- or two. The roads are just too dangerous to risk opening the store-or getting stuck. Now is a good time to go through that stash, that way you won't feel guilty for buying all the fabulous new stuff I've been ordering for the past several days.

This probably should have been addressed sooner but the Paper Crown inclement weather policy is if the OKC schools are closed, it's a pretty sure bet we will also be closed so definitely call before you come. 

We have decided to postpone Franc's Alice in Wonderland class until Thursday, February 10th. We are just not sure what the weather will be like tomorrow but chances are the roads will ice over at night and we don't want to take that risk. 

Hopefully the roads will get plowed today and we will be open on Thursday. Since the ATC cards are snowbound at the store and I'm snowbound at home, if you could give us until Friday to pick up your cards it would be greatly appreciated.

I'm sure some of you are still in shock at a new blog post. Believe me, I understand but hopefully the third time is the charm. The first blog was created by Claudia,  the previous owner, then sweet Jill tried to help out by posting but I decided that it is something I need to do so- here we go.

A special thanks to Catherine at Avalon Rose Design who created the blog and website  and Melissa at Designher Brand who has helped me put it all together and make it look wonderful. They have been great to work with and so very helpful and patient. We still have some things to work out but boy does it look great. Thank you again.


With my first post out of the way I'm off to tackle this. Yes,  those are my Christmas decorations which have been artfully piled- not really- on my coffee table. I must say they look beautiful but it is time go to the attic.

Hope you all enjoy the snow day- please be safe and stay warm and hopefully we will be open on Thursday!

Monday, November 22, 2010

More December Classes!

Just when you thought it was over for holiday classes we have come up with some fabulous classes in December. These would be the perfect get away for all that Christmas frenzy or the perfect gift for that special someone. All these classes are taught by our crafty friends across the Red River.

The newest teacher to Paper Crown is Heather Ales. Heather is an accomplished artist and is coming to OKC after helping with Creative Connection and Silver Bella. You can view her creative talents at www.heatherales.com or www.heatheralesdesigns.com


Basic Soldering

Heather Ales

Fri., Dec. 3

5:30-8:30 pm or Sat., Dec 4

Class Pre-Requisite: None

Class Fee: $65


This class will be a basic introductory class where you’ll learn the very basics of soldering (tools, supplies, and basic jewelry charm soldering) and get to try your hand at creating at least two pendant style charms. All supplies for this class are provided – including art for your charms.  Due to the small class size (6) , we will be offering two beginner classes- the first on Friday night and the second Saturday morning. You only need to sign up for one class.


Intermediate Solderin

Heather Ales

Sat., Dec. 4th 2:30-5:30 pm

Class Pre-Requisite: Attendance in my basic soldering class or knowledge and experience in creating soldered charms. (this is not a basic or introductory class)

Class Fee: $65


This class will expand upon the skills you learned in Basic Soldering. We'll continue adding upon your skill base by discussing and I will demonstrate creating bubble charms, working with bevels, shadow box charms, soldering non-glass items, and decorative soldering. Then, we'll work together to create a variety of charms to add to your collection. The supplies and tools are provided for this class also; however if you own tools, it would be helpful if you brought them with you.

Last but certainly not least..


Paper Crown Gurlie

Ann-Denise Anderson

Dec. 11, 11-4:30 (Lunch will be provided)

Class Fee: $85


In this workshop you will be learning the art of paper clay, sculpting and molding techniques. The Paper Crown Gurlie is inspired by the Paper Crown store and her owner, Cindy Winter- if only I was so cute! I felt inspired to create a little gurlie, all made up of paper and vintage embellishments! She measures 10” tall, fully jointed and is all hand sculpted, painted, antiqued, clothed from her crush glass paper crown to the tips of her ruffled socks and bow tied Mary Janes. You definitely won’t want to miss this class! Kit supplies include: paper clay, forms, textiles, embellishments, paints sculpting tools and hardware. Students are responsible for: glue gun, any adhesives, scissors, bling that you might want to use on your gurlie and apron to protect your clothing. Remember due to the class length you will want to wear comfortable clothing.

There are also a very few spots left in the following classes:

Holiday Spool Class- Thurs., Nov. 19, 5:30-9, Jackie $4

A Dozen Roses- Fri., Nov. 19, 6-9, Hilari and Cindy $65< A Vintage Cone- Sat., Nov. 20, noon- 3:30, Ann- Denise $65 A Noel Cone- Thurs., Nov. 30, 5:30-8:30, Cindy $35 Christmas Tray- Thurs., Dec. 9, 5:30-8:30, Franc $45 Kids Camp- Sun., Dec. 5, 1:30-4:30, Hilari and Cindy, $75 Make sure to come check out our new products this week! New Websters pages and October Afternoon have just arrived, here's a little peek...

Hollywood Vogue by Websters Pages


Flower Whimsies by Websters pages. These are available in multiple colors!


Beautiful bloomers ribbon by Websters Pages


Sweet Season collection by Websters Pages


Waiting For Santa by Websters Pages


Schoolhouse collection by October Afternoon

We have LOTS of new Christmas lines in stock as well! :)

Call Paper Crown to reserve your class seat! 848-2389

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Paper Crown Glitter Market Classes

November 18th, 19th & 20th


We all love the holiday season and what better way to get in the spirit of Christmas “ Paper Crown style.” This special holiday event will consist of three sparkling days of classes that decorate your home for the holidays and create a keepsake present for someone special. The three days of classes and holiday glitz will culminate with a vendor market on Saturday, November 20th.


Holiday Spool Class
Thurs., Nov. 18th
5:30-9:00, $45.00

We could not think of a better way to kick off the Glitter Market than a class by our very own Jackie Peters. We really are so very blessed to have such a talented artist in our store! Jackie will take her popular spools and add her special touch to create a vintage Santa and snow maiden . If you have done Jackie’s earlier spools you will want to add these holiday decorations to your collection. We have added a few extra class seats to accommodate the demand but call soon.


Dozen Roses
Fri., Nov. 19th
6:00-9:00, $65.00



As many of you know, once a month Hilari and I fling the paint and glitter with the kiddos in Kid’s Camp. Often we have had requests to duplicate it for adults so here is your chance. In this class ( and remember it is a kid’s class so don’t tell us you can’t paint!) we will paint a 16 x 20 still life of a dozen roses. A pre-sketched vase will ease the anxiety of those who claim you can’t draw. In class we will paint the background and vase, with instruction on basic shading, and then have a blast painting the dozen free form textured roses. If 10 year olds can do it so can you- I promise! At the end of the evening you will have a beautiful painting for your home or a special gift for someone special.


Vintage Style Parisian Christmas Cone
Sat., Nov. 20th
12:00 ~4ish, $65.00


Behold one of the holiday's favorite treasures. The Parisian Christmas goods cone to be stuffed with candies, trinkets, and gifts. This eye catching inspiration is a big 23 inches high and made of a tea stained muslin, lace, pink silk, tulle. seam binding, vintage buttons and bling. Adorned with a vintage tag from the 1800's invoking it's Christmas spirit!
During this project you will be learning some staining and textile distressing techniques. How to construct the cone from scratch. Inspirational uses of plain floral pins and yummy glass beads! Tattering and smoldering tulle's & lace. There is no better gift than a handmade gift from the heart and what better gift than a Vintage Style Parisian Christmas Cone!
You can visit Ann- Denise on her blog, Whim & Fancy Designs, www.whimandfancydesigns.blogspot.com. There you will be able to travel through her artful world of imagination.


*Art Kit included*
Students are responsible for the following:
Glue gun, scissors, any personal embellishments, such as old buttons, rhinestones, broken jewelry that you may want to incorporate into your creation.
All other supplies such as cone hardware, tea stained fabrics, muslin, silks , laces, vintage tinsel, rhinestones,
beads, pins, ribbons, glue, millinery, glue baths, sewing machines etc. will be provided by instructor.


In addition to these wonderfully creative classes, you will be able to get all your holiday shopping done a the vendor market . What better way to show family and friends how much you think of them than with an exquisitely unique gift. Some of our favorite artisans will be displaying their work including: Jackie Peters, Linda Land & Brenda Little, Ann- Denise Anderson, Holly Abston, Jill Groce, to name a few. The talent we have in Oklahoma City rivals any of the larger arts markets.


As you can see we have a wonderfully sparkly weekend in store for you-
Stop by to create, shop, snack and have a glorious time welcoming the holiday season!


Call Paper Crown to reserve your class seat, 848-2389.

We still have a few vendor tables available so if you are interested or know of someone who might be, please call the store.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Summer Mix & Mingle!

Summer is the perfect time to slow things down and enjoy time with friends. We decided to duplicate this same feeling at our favorite paper arts store, Paper Crown, by starting a summer tradition of Mix & Mingle. Join us the 4th Tuesday of the month, May- August, for a special evening of fun, treats and laughter. From 6-8 pm you can enjoy creating a small make and take project, eating some delicious treats, shopping with a 20% discount and catching up with your crafty friends. The cost is free, our summer treat to our loyal customers.

Tuesday, May 25 6-8 pm

Tuesday, June 22 6-8 pm

Tuesday, July 27 6-8 pm

Tuesday, August 24 6-8 pm

Come Help us Celebrate Summer at Paper Crown!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

New KI Memories and MORE New Prima!

Hi All! Here is a peek at all of the new collections from KI Memories that have just arrived at Paper Crown:








You can see even more of our new KI Memories collections plus more in the store.

Here are a few more peeks of all of our new Prima products:


Stay tuned for our new Summer Class schedule, plus even more new products!