Our New Smart Scoop

I've always be skeptical about automatic cleaning litter boxes.  I saw a Smart Scoop demonstration on my first visit to OurPet's and was impressed with how quiet it was.  Also, the profile of the box was also not as large as other boxes on the market.  I had to try one! The boys (being the handy cats they are) put the Smart Scoop together for me one afternoon.

Vinci "Yup...this is how you use it!"

Matisse "That's not what it looks like on the picture."

Vinci "OK I figured it out now! This is how you use it"
Matisse *face paw*

Vinci "Do not overfill.....OK...but I can't make any promises"

I love this litter box!  My cats aren't scared of it at all. There is a sensor to ensure that the box will not scoop until 15 minutes after kitty has done his or her business and left. It also has a carbon filter and clean up is constant so there is less odor.

Sara's Dad "Hey, it doesn't stink in your apartment anymore!"
Vinci "I can fix that!"

Check out the Smart Scoop Video to see this baby in action. If you like to see more pictures of Vinci and Matisse just head on over to flickr.

Update!

A lot has happened since my last post!  I presented my thesis, said goodbye to some great friends and graduated with a BFA from the Columbus College of Art & Design. Now, I'm getting ready to move back to Cleveland to start my dream job in less than a month!

The Senior Industrial Design Thesis show had a great turn out. Thank you to everyone for your support and interest in our projects.

Industrial Design Thesis Show - Me standing in front of my presentation.

Please stay tuned for more updates!

Video Friday

Leia jumping on the couch for her favorite snack.

DIY Before and After-Tree Lawn Rescue!

I spotted this bench a month ago while driving down my street. It was just hanging out on someone's tree lawn waiting to be thrown out. I hopped out of the car to take a closer look. It was part of a kitchen sectional that included a larger size bench and a pie shaped connector piece. The dingy, brown, oil cloth upholstery and goldenrod paint lead me to believe it had been born in the seventies. I inspected the piece to make sure it was worth saving. The back piece and seat were stapled to a sturdy wood base that easily attached to a metal frame. There was no sign of significant rusting or decay. It passed inspection so I snatch it up and drove it back to my house.

One weekend and less than $30 later....

Before

After

Ta-Da! The lovely addition to my new apartment.

Categories: art, DIY

New Feature!

I've been chosen as a featured artist at femmedetails.com! To read the full interview click here. Stop by and show some blog love!

Categories: art, etsy

Sophisticated Sketching

This is my latest sketchbook. A present for my very talented, and deserving boyfriend.

This book is a lot larger than the ones listed in my etsy shop. The technique is also slightly different/improved. It's body is made from a blank, hardcover sketchbook I found at a second hand book store. I love making my wood grain sketchbooks because each one is so unique. As I sculpt and paint the woodgrain finish I try to match the color and texture to fit the reciever's style and personallity. That's the beauty of handmade. One size, style, color, shape does not fit all and should never have to.

Categories: art, etsy, sketchook, DIY

Beginnings

Last night I was looking through some old files when I came across some of my elementary school papers.

These two drawings were completed my first grade year. I also found an "all about me" packet from the year prior. When asked what I wanted to learn the most I responded, "how to be a famous artist." Pretty big goal for a five year old. Funny, not much has changed.

Categories: art, sketchbook

I've been featured!

I'm please to announce that I have been selected as one of DMJ's featured artists for the week of July 21st!

Click here to read the full interview. The Dancing Monkey Jewelry Chronicles is now also listed in the "Blogs I Adore" section so check it out!

Categories: art, etsy, sketchbook