The girl from Michael's! Loved seeing so many different ideas and levels of work at Conn College. Hope nobody got in trouble for me being there!Thanks so much!

Still looking to make class.

Where is your gallery. Address and phone #. Thanks.

I am interested in the bulldog what is your price for just the medallion??

I love the uniqueness of your work and your ability to create your ideas! Your artwork is WONDERFUL!

You.re work is awsome, so much talent. You go girl and keep up the good work, and you,re prices are not bad either.

Awesome web site!

We have something you may like to try.

I love your site! I have tried several times to sign up to your email, but I can't as it keeps coming up "invalid email". Please put me on! Your designs are so unique. You are so talented, & I love coming to this site as you always have something interesting! Thanks for letting me visit!

Love this guy!

Hi, Darleen,

I wish people understood the difference between inspiration and copy. Ah, well, you know I love your work and Christi's work and hope you both keep claying your creative hearts out! By the way, I come to your site for inspiration as well as hers!

Thanks for being you!

Sherilyn

Hi Darleen,

I learned something new today about CF designs thanks to the attention brought to your guestbook from the Yahoo! group. I have always found Christie's designs to be a great kick-start for my own, but was reluctant to sell any of them because I couldn't find anything in her books saying anything about it (I guess it's time to get me some glasses). After what I've seen here and on the Yahoo! group, I can breathe a sigh of relief. I don't think my designs look like hers, but they look enough like hers I was concerned.

I love your Kats and clay prints -- the mermaid is beautiful!

--Wynne

Darleen - I love the bright colors in this dragon. It's beautiful!

I am insanely jealous of your ability to create octopi. I've tried a million times and they never, ever look right. Great work!

I absolutely LOVE these Kool Katz LOL. I laugh every time I see them and have no idea why. WAY cute!

Oh, heck - he's cute as can be with that "love me, please" look.

Oh Ho;lly, I feel bad for you. Too bad you did not take the time to read all the comments below that people have left. There you will even see one from Christi herself and how she is also a very good friend of mine. Obviously, you are not a tru fan of hers because if yu were, you would probably have purchased her books and READ in the book where she gives permission for anyone that buys her HOW TO books to re-create what is in the books and SELL the creations. Please learn to get all the facts before you jump on the band wagon of other jealous and critical people so you will not look like a foolish person. Thank you for visiting my site. But next time, if you dont have anything nice to say, then dont say anything.

love your work thanks for the info.Don't let any negativity derail you from it.Go GIRL!!!!

Hi Darlene have taken two classes with you at bead gallery ! I looked for you on facebook, R U there? Also Leanne Kelly says hi from ac moore

This is beautiful!

It seems Peggy has an issue with my creations. I would urge her to contact Christi, that way, when she hears Christi tell her that anyone that purchases her books can create items using her techniques and sell them, perhaps she will get it. Obviously she doesnt have a clue and maybe she should purchase one of Christis books so she can read the disclaimer herself...maybe she cannot afford the book, if so, I would be happy to send her one from the supply I have on hand in my studio that Christi has left for me to sell to students that take my classes!

Peggy and Mary...Why are you complaining? If you don't like what you see, don't look at it and don't buy it. Go to another site or go make your own. I don't have the time or energy to make these, and I like them very much... and no, I don't know this artist and have never met her, but I hope she ignores your postings.

She is not selling christi friesen's designs - she is selling her own. If she had duplicated one ms friesen's items, then it would be a problem, but she did no such thing... she created her own.

I am interested in learning about polymer clay. Do you have any beginner classes starting in late August or Sept?

Thanks,

Karen

please make doubles of puff the pouty dragon!!!!!!!!!!! he's so cute i have got 2 have him

Beautiful gallery, I like your work, clayprint is my favorite. Thanks for sharing.

I cannot thank enough the many of you that have made such loving and caring comments regarding the "nasty post". Your support through this is has definitely given me just the boost I needed lately. I cannot thank you enough for all your support in the past and now with this. Obviously we have someone that is either angry or jealous and has nothing better to do with their time than harrass happy people and try and spread their vileness on the internet. As my dad would say, they are like hemmoroids, you never know when they are going to flare up!

My dh always said "that as long as someone is kicking you in the 'arse' you are still way out in front" Don't let the neg. comments bother you,it is not worth bother or the time spent thinking about it... You and we, know your worth.

Deep breaths Darlene, my friend, ignore negative pople. They are not worth our time.

This person is not even worth our getting upset at Darleen. We who are your friends and co-artists KNOW how talented YOU really are!!!It shows in your work, whether it be from something you learned from Christi or from your own wealth of talented expression. I still have your silly cat earrings and love em and wear them often. Ppl like this person (to stretch the point) are not worth our ire and deserve what they get out of life. Laurel

All of us are here to sopport you. There has ans will always be those that don't have a clue. Cristi is one of the most sharing teachers that anyone will come across. If she didn't want anyone to know how she does thing she would just hide her secrets in never never land. Maybe thes secret person just can't find their way to never nerver land and sre felling sorry for them selves. Please don't let this person upset you Christi nor any of the rest of us want to see you that way. WE know in our heart were your ententions are.

Ed

Ditto on what Joann said...I'd love to buy a book with your tutorials!!! Have you written any tuts for us yet??? your loyal friend and fan..............gggggggggggggg

love your work still waiting for you to do a book

I read what was going on on the CF list too..just want to lend moral support. Big Hugs

Hey Chicky, Ignorant people, that's what it is. Those of us that know and love you know that your extreme talent and creativity comes from within. We have all been Christi inspired at one point or another. Then we take it to our own new heights. Your individual style is SO your own. Don't let anyone tell you different. You are a bright star in the polymer clay cosmos!!! love ya girlfriend

Hi Darleen,

It is too bad there are people in the world that have nothing better to do than to intentionally go out of their way to try to hurt others. So many adages come to mind... "Life is too short!", "Do unto others...", "What comes around, goes around!", "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." and many more... I personally love your work and think you are very talented! Thank you for sharing your talent with the world. Try to let this go... you are giving them power by letting them get to you and it is obvious by the rallying support that you are very well admired and loved.

Hi Darleen, don't let others get you down....those of us who have met Christi in a class ( like those held in YOUR studio-which I attended and look forward to again-I hope ) would know that Christi encourages us to use her methods to inspire us, as long as we give credit to her methods. I have personally seen and purchased your work---You are an awesome artist, the time and effort that you put into your art definately shows through and is worth the price. You rock girl!!! Hopefully I can go to one of your classes too......

darleen - brings to mind a certain conversation ... no ? anyway - glad everyone got over here to support you - sorry it took me so long to read my messages. your work is OBVIOUSLY touched by your own inner muse. give the comments below no more thought :) ps: went to your blogspot but there was no place to become a follower ...

Soooooooo cute! Look at these begin' for affection eyes!!!

Yeah Darleen, forget about this ONE (because obviously is one person) ugly jealous, the thing is...CF is on your side so...the rest is meaningless!!! By the way, your work is great!!!!

I agree with what your other supporters have said, especially Kris -- sour grapes. Some people just feel the need to be ugly, probably in an attempt to make up for something missing in their lives, and we just have to learn to ignore them. Take into consideration the ratio of positive to negative. Take a deep breath, and keep on truckin'. :)

Hang in there Darleen. Jealous people are ugly people, and that was one UGLY person that left those. You're a great gal and very creative.

Kris

Hi Darleen. Im a member of CF's yahoo group too, and when I saw your post about this I just had to lend my support. Dont let this person/persons get you down. As others have said, they dont know you or Christi, or they would know their comments are ridiculous. And as for the stab about your talent and your prices? I say if they can do better let them. But if they had even tried, they would know that your pieces are worth every penny for the time and skill that went into them. Keep your chin up. It just sounds like a case of sour grapes to me. XOXO Jamie

Dear Darleen,

I sure hope you don't let these posers get you down! I am proud to say I own one of your pieces and it is fabulous! Whom ever the offending posters are they must not be taking in to account that we are all inspired by someone. You do a wonderful job of giving CF credit and promoting her new books, work and etc. Stand tall Darleen those o us who know you know the truth. You are a wonderful artist and person. Hang in there,

Sally

Hi Darleen & friends!

I thought I should add my comments on this subject as well. I always am personally grateful when anyone supports me and my work, but sad if it is done in a hurtful way, such as happened here. Darleen does indeed give an "inspired by" clause at the bottom of the page, which is wonderful, and I do indeed encourage others to use the ideas in my works for their own creations (as we are all inspired by others in some way or another). A more thorough viewing of Darleen's site should have left the poster(s) with no more worries, if indeed they were trying to protect me - it instead seems to me that there was some more personal reason for the attack. I never want to be the reason for anyone being hurt! I want love and cookies and goodness for all! ;-D so from my perspective, I hope the poster(s) will realize that their comments were misguided and any grievances should have been handled privately, not on an open forum where Darleen's character would be smeared.

cf

My web master is working on tracking down the verbal attackers/slanderers, and it appears it is one person using 3 different names coming from an aol address. We are going to get to the bottom of this and find them and see what can be done about the slanderous incantations.

I too am distressed that Darleen was attacked on her website. I am part of Christi's on-line yahoo group and take as many of Christi's on-line classes as possible. Darleen does put her own spin on her Christi inspired pieces. Plus she does many other types of clay pieces. I admire Darleen’s ability and resent the rude comments left by these 3 (?) very rude people. Darleen you go girl…

Darleen, after reading your message on the CF group I was curious to see what these people said to you. I find it funny they claim to be Christi's "friend" and know her work so well when they can't even spell her name right. You did nothing wrong...your work is beautiful. I feel so horrible for people who have nothing better to do then leave nasty messages to others. Keep up the great work Darleen!! ..... Chelsie

Darleen, wait until Christi sees these posts! She will be really steamed that her friend was abused by people she doesn't know who are speaking for her! We know she can speak for herself and does when she feels she need to! Your site is one she sees often so........luvjean

Comment: I'm very distressed to see anybody would

feel the need to verbally attack Darleen, when

they obviously don't know anything about her or

Christi (and even spelled Christi's name wrong!).

I have had the pleasure of attending several

Christi workshops, hosted at Darleen's

home/studio. The classes were great and it was

hysterical seeing Christi and Darleen goofing

around and bouncing ideas for new creations back

and forth - obviously they are great friends!

Both are very special people who I admire, and I

hate to see one being attacked under the misguided

pretense of defending the other. At every

workshop Christi tells her students that they are

free to make pieces in her style and sell them, as

long as they give credit to her - which Darleen

always does! Darleen is one of Christi's biggest

fans and promoters, as anybody who knows her will

gladly tell you!

Darbella has been a polymer clay artist for over 20 years. She has put her own spin on her pieces and has Christi's blessings. If you don't like it don't come to this site. It is a terrible thing when people flame other people and She gives credit to Christi unlike others. You sound like a bunch of jealous biddies. be done with you!!!!

for those of you leaving the negative comments regarding me copying Christi Friesen, I have a few things to say. #!, Christi is a very good friend of mune, so if she were such a good friend of yours, i am sure you would know that she encourages people to make clay pieces using the HOW TO books she sells. If you read the bottom of my page, you will also see that she is given credit for her inspiration.

#2- In each of her books, she encourages the making and even selling of the pieces people make, and regarding the pricing, check out what others are getting before you critisize my pricing. Christi was at my home when i made the dragon smoke and mirrors and was very impressed with it. You are obviously aan over protective CF follower but you truly do not know her as well as you want people to think. Do not write on my guest book again. I am going to be calling Christi and bringing this to her attention, if you are even honest enough to be leaving your real name on your posts.

i agree with peggy about the copycat it is obvious you have no real good ideas of your own now we add seahorses and seals what next i see the jewelry now too 48 bucks for a seahorse think again anyone can make these i have made whimsical characters for years you gotta be kidd'n me duh

i did not think u could sell other artist designs such as christi friesen dragon turtle giraffe octopus all jeweled shame on you

love your work! luv my sunshine piece

I think you should make dogs in the kool kritterz or koalas. That would be cute!!!!!!! maybe make multiple Kool Kritterz so more people can have the same one!!!!!!!

girl your stuff is so great, had to check out your new stuff keep up the claying you're a pro girl ;-)

I have been in Awww for a LONG time with your work :) Yes please come to Denver and tell me.....PLEASE!!

Hi Darleen. I found it and what a great blog you have. Will keep checking back to see all the new wonderful things you come up with. Nice seeing you at Breyerfest. See you next year. And will send you photos of your puppy!

It was great meeting you at Lindley's class - love your work, love your website!

Lori

I love your work!!! Wish you were giving classes in the Denver Metro area! Let me know if you ever plan to be here :) Cindy

Darlene,

Great work! I am totally impressed!!

Kim

Hey Chicky!! Found it and I like it!!!! Youwill be famous girlfriend...no doubt!!

XXOO

This is absolutely wonderful! Recognizing the castle-background and utilizing it -- wow. The dragon, moon and clouds, pine trees ... all of it, including the matting - just wonderful! One of your best, I think, and THAT is saying a lot. Keep on Clayin', lol.

Do you frame these? You are so talented.

You are so talented I love that palque. How come you have nothing to buy on your website? Do you have an Etsy or Ebay store to purchase?

Thanks

Hey D! Whaaah, i miss talking to ya! I'll call soon, i promise! But i saw these awesome doggies on you site and i would like to think about something for my friend who has a sheltie and a Japanese Chin, but i first have to steal some pictures from her! Could you think about something that has both of them please? like a little wall thingy or something? I absolutely adore you and i love your work, darling! Hugs and kisses from your number one fan! Can't wait to see you on HGTV, WOOHOO!

Darlene, I understand you are part of Christi's group..I'm a new member and Jean told me to check out your cats and kritters...I LOVE THEM!!!!!

Hi Darleen,

Love the website! Your creations (as always) are amazing and awe-inspiring. Take care & talk to you soon.

Kristin H.

WOW! So sweet.

I found it!

All I can say is that I'm awe struck by your work and can't wait until the day that I can purchase one for myself!!!!

Hugs,

Debbie

Girl,Awesome, your site looks fantastic and your work is more beautiful every day and looks to be selling like gang busters. I'm so happy for you Sweetie, you deserve it.Hugs Jacque

Hi Darleen,

I posted a picture of a creature on the CF group today that is named after you

because you're such a cool lady and you give me so much inspiration. It'll probably be the only one of it's kind for me since i'm more of a "dragonclayer" but it was fun to do, i hope you like her!!! Keep up the good work, girl! Big Hug from Denver,

Francisca

I appreciate your talent! thanks for sharing it with those of us who work with you.

Hi Darleen: We met at the PetStep this weekend... thanks for coming out. I would love to place an order for an all-white Scottish Fold sitting on a glass cube for my girlfriend for XMas - I have a photo of the cat, if you'd like. Feel free to call me in the evenings - 914-420-5519. Thanks. Stacey

Darleen...a crazy guy I work with told me about your web site and of course I had to take a peek. I Love it, I Love it, I Love it!! Very unique and highly detailed pieces. You have been given such a fabulous gift. I'm going to give "The Guy" I work with a few pictures of lighthouses I've taken for you to see and maybe you would be interested in replicating them in Polymer Clay. Of course I would need to know the cost before hand but please consider it and let me know. Best of Luck to you...you truly are very talented. Have a great day! April

Hi Darleen, My friend Evie Winter told me about your designs. I would be interested in carrying your jewelry pieces if you offer them wholesale. If so please send pricing. Thanks, Linda

Hi Darleen...

Did you get a chance to try to email me on the above address or the one I sent through the CF Group?

Thanks!

Rhonda

Hi Darlene,I hope you and your hubby enjoyed your dinner at Bickford's--I enjoyed meeting you, and looking at your website.

Hi Darleen...

I don't know if you remember me, but I bought the seal and monkey in the jungle a few months ago. I am also in the CF Group.

I just love your designs. They are lovely. I have made some things, but afraid to list due your other's amazing creations in the Group.

Are you planning to make more designs that are in frames like the mermaid? She is soooo darling! There are some other designs that are "sold" that I would like to have. So do you take special orders? I am thinking you probably don't have time for that. I do understand.

Take care and I will talk to you soon.

Rhonda Jones

wonderful as usual.

Darleen, you are blessed with such a gift. I wish i lived a little closer to you so i could attend your classes. However, you probably don't know how much i have already learned from you just by paying close attention to your work and your comments on the CF group. Thank you so much!!! Namaste, Francisca in Colorado.

Ps. if you ever come to Denver, come see me!

Hi Darleen,

I really enjoyed taking you class today. I think you've got me hooked.

Darleen, I love your work - it's all awesome - I enjoyed the 2 classes I've been fortunate to be able to take with you - though a mere fledgeling, given time I think I could join the ranks of ther clayaholics!

Thanks again,

Katherine

Hi...

I would like to purchase the "baby seal" and "monkey business". Also, do you have sea turtles available? And, is it OK if I send a money order? I normally use PayPal, but I am working with eBay to correct a problem, so I am temporarily not using it.

Thanks,

Rhonda

Hi Darleen! I love your work. I too wish I was closer to take a class or two. It was good to see you, Wayne and the kids recently. :)

Keep up the good work, you are truly talanted with a variety of art forms. I wish I could attend your classes.

Love the combination of seeds, pearls and polymer clay. The roughness of the leaf combined with the soft gleam of the beads is great.

Hi Darleen,

Your classes are great. You and your art are lots of fun!

You are truly a gifted artist, Darleen. I've enjoyed viewing all of your art pieces.

I can't say enough about your pieces, they are absolutely awesome

Absolutely Gorgeous! Creative Pieces - Very talented Artist! Bravo

I really like your page, Darleen. Gives me a kick in the butt to get mine set up...talk to you soon