Thinking of ordering my custom designed hand painted
candle holder or glassware? Want to get to know me better?
Here are some Q&A to help you along.
If you still have questions or want help with design ideas,
caring of a hand painted item, or special requests,
please Contact Me directly.
Q: What is Frost Bitten Fruit Designs?
A: I came up with the name while making plans to start a fruit smoothie & internet cafe for teenagers. I wanted to create a safe space where kids can come to share ideas, work on homework, create arts & crafts, hang out and just have fun. The smoothies were to be made from frozen fruit not flavored powders or syrups. The atmosphere was to be user friendly without limitations. As a play on words, "The Forbidden Fruit" became "The Frost Bitten Fruit." Being the artist that I am, I also wanted to offer a space to display art work from the kids. The art gallery portion would become Frost Bitten Fruit Designs. Because I was not able to find financial backing for my idea, I decided to keep the name and create my own artwork and items for sale.
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: I began toying with the idea of painting again in August of 2006 after losing my job. It took me a couple of months to decide how I would go about making something I enjoyed into a business. I am a single mom so I had to start very small. I first purchased my supplies in small quantities. I tried the local Beaumont Swap Meet for a while. I then looked into the Palm Springs' VillageFest in December of 2006. I was approved for participation in January of 2007. We have been annual vendors ever since. My daughter also helps me with VillageFest every Thursday. You may even see some of her designs periodically. We look forward to adding other events in the future.
Because I do all the painting myself and I want to limit the production of each design, I do not plan on expanding too quickly. I will never mass produce any of my products by using a manufacturer overseas. Please keep that in mind when comparing my products to others. I want everyone to have something unique.
Q: What is the Victoria Garden's Mainstreet Marketplace?
A: Victoria Gardens is an upscale mall located in Rancho Cucamonga. They have just recently added a weekly art show for Wednesday evenings. The event will run from January through October, from 4 PM till 9 PM. The event is held on South Mainstreet. The first show was on July 1st, 2009. Our booth is located directly in front of Williams Sonoma. Although this is a brand new show, I see great potential for growth. Please help support the vendors and event by visiting and spreading the word. Please be sure to share your opinions with Victoria Gardens so we can make improvements and perfect the event.
I'm sorry to say that the event has been canceled as of September 30th, 2009. We hope it will be up and running again in January of 2010.
Q: What is the Palm Springs' VillageFest?
A: The VillageFest is a weekly festival held in downtown Palm Springs. They block off Palm Canyon Drive from the Hyatt to the Alley. It is roughly 10 blocks long! The event starts at 6 PM and lasts till 10 PM every Thursday night from September to May. Summer hours are 7 PM till 10 PM. This event is held all year long, rain or shine. There is food, music, art, produce, entertainment, and other special events. Out booth is located just north of California Pizza Kitchen. You can visit us in person to see all of the items on display. I offer on site personalization on any of the items free of charge. Custom orders may be placed in advance and picked up during the event. New items can also be made when time allows.
Q: How do you create these candle holders and glassware?
A: I purchase many of my items through various importers and restaurant suppliers. I hand paint each item using acrylic paint. I prefer acrylic over enamels for the various vibrant colors. Once the paint is dry, the art work is coated with 2-3 layers of Clear Gloss Glaze. The glaze is then baked in order for it to cure completely. Once the item has been baked, the glaze becomes waterproof. For product information on the paint and glaze please visit: DeltaCrafts.com
Q: Will the paint wash off?
A: Because I bake all of my items with a clear glaze, the paint does not wash off. Although the glaze makes the items dishwasher safe, I would still prefer if you hand washed the items when necessary. A gentle hand-washing while using a soft sponge with some mild soap is perfect. Please do not soak or scrub the items.
Q: How do I order a custom designed candle holder or glassware?
A: First, you have to decide which of the candle holder or glassware you want painted. You can find detail descriptions of each item in the Current Stock page. Second, you have to decide on a design. I have organized all the designs into various categories in my Portfolio. These will be the bases for your item. I do not copy, not even my own work. I do not use stencils or stamps. Your item will have it's own unique characteristic. Third, place your order by clicking on Contact Me to discuss design details. You can email any additional details you wish to be added to the design. Colors, themes, specific items, inscriptions, names, dates, etc.. Once I receive your request, I will share some of my ideas with you. If you agree to the design, I will forward a billing statement. Sorry, I can only begin painting upon receiving full payment. I can take your credit card information over the phone of you can mail your payment. Completion time can vary depending on the design and quantity. I will email pictures of the finished items for approval. Once approved, the item will be shipped via USPS Priority Mail within 3-5 business days. You may also choose to pick up your order during any of the weekly festivals such as VillageFest.That's it! You will be the proud owner of a custom designed hand painted candle holder or glassware.
Q: How do I care for a hand painted candle holder or glassware?
A: Generally, all the items are cured by me before being made available for sale. If you purchased the item during any of the festivals and requested personalization or custom work, you will need to cure the item at home prior to it's first use. Place the item in the center rack of a cold oven. Set the temperature to the lowest possible temperature, this is generally around 165 to 200 degrees. Turn off the oven in 20 minutes. Allow the item to cool in the oven over the next 1 to 2 hours. This process will cure the new coat of glaze. Once the item has cooled off completely, please remove item carefully and wipe with a soft cloth. You item will now be ready for you to enjoy. If you need to clean the item, I would prefer if you hand wash it with a soft sponge and mild soap. These items should never be left submerged in water over long periods of time or scrubbed. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me directly.