Studio Sunday (no. 21)

Hello friends. Welcome to my weekend newsletter where I share ten things I loved, learned or discovered recently.

1. If you’re into historic homes…

This week I’ve been reading every home tour I can find on the Sleeper-McCann House. It’s packed with inspiration. It has 56 rooms on two floors because the original owners built on (and on and on) as a showcase for their design. I have at least three separate favorite rooms.

2. Whistler

I started Ann Patchett’s new book Whistler and I’m so into it. I’ll be back with more thoughts soon. For now I’m just happy to have a book I’m so excited to read every day. Best feeling ever.

My next two novels (I’m drafting one and planning the other) are going to be a gothic and a family saga. If you have favorites from either category, please respond to this email and let me know. I’ve read some amazing classics (Shirley Jackson, Oscar Wilde, Gabriel García Márquez) so I’m especially looking for newish books to study. You always send me the best recommendations—thank you!

One of my children just started a Mona Lisa diamond painting (which 1000% means I will be completing a Mona Lisa diamond painting because I can’t let it sit there half-finished forever AUGH).

I just got supplies to try needlepoint, but to start with the easiest possible projects so I was thinking small little designs that could be framed for the Christmas tree (or Halloween?). I’m so indecisive on which patterns to try (and probably will just make my own).

This week I’m going to get out the button maker and give that a try.

I don’t need another journal, but this clear journal cover from Etsy is so so cute.

I love this new pattern for the Dawn dress. Perfect for Summer.

If you’re one of THOSE people who likes insanely early Halloween releases (raises hand) look here and here and here. (I think it’s a millennial tradition to shop Halloween all Summer)

In other news… Emma and I are planning a little writing retreat to this haunted hotel. Can’t wait!

I’ve been looking for a clear purse for a while (for events where they force you to have one) and this one is so cute.

My pebble ice machine is on sale. It’s one of my favorite purchases ever. It’s a small countertop machine and it makes the perfect ice (some people call it nugget ice or Sonic ice).

I found this mahogany jewelry box with pink velvet interior on eBay. My kids had so much fun organizing it for me.

PS. If you need a comfort movie to rewatch this week don’t forget that Summer is Wes Anderson season.