COTE DE TEXAS: CROSS BOTTLE GUY: A WONDERFUL GIVEAWAY!!!

CROSS BOTTLE GUY: A WONDERFUL GIVEAWAY!!!


Today, we have a fabulous giveaway hosted by a new sponsor, Cross Bottle Guy HERE.
 
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Cross Bottle Guy sells antique bottles, topped with crystals and other unique finds in the shape of a cross.
The man behind Cross Bottle Guy is the popular blogger, Color Outside The Lines, Artie Vanderpool.

Artie and I are design soul mates – we go way back to the beginning of blogging when we discovered we had the same taste.  Back then, Artie, a fellow Texan, had just moved to  Buffalo by Niagara Falls in upstate New York to be with his new partner.  They lived in a wonderful cottage filled with French doors. 

Artie spent his entire time while living in the house redecorating it.  The problem for Artie was all the molding and French doors were a dark, orange colored wood and Artie craved light and bright.  Oh, the discussions we had!!! I would endlessly say “just paint the woodwork!!!  Scott will get over it!!”   And Artie would say  “I can’t!  Scott loves the dark wood!”

And oh…the changes in decorating he made.  No one changed their decor more than Artie as he tried to make the house his vision.
 
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Artie started out with four leather chairs (I had forgotten there were once FOUR!) that he brought with him from Texas.  The four were forever the bane of his existence because he knew only two fit and even that was stretching it.   The walls were painted green and you can see the French doors with the dark orange woodwork.   The room looked good arranged like this and it was photographed for the newspaper design section!

Of course, right after the article was published, Artie moved the chairs all around.  He eventually moved two out and left two here.  Oh those chairs!  They tortured him!!!    One night he sent me picture after picture – as he moved things around, asking my opinion.  That is what is so much fun about Artie!  He always posts pictures of his decor and asks his readers for advice and comments and help.

 
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Here, the sofa from the sunporch was moved in the living room, while the two extra chairs were moved out.

   But, the house was dark and the dark paint and the dark molding made it all that much darker.  Eventually he decided to paint the green walls a much brighter cream which changed everything.

 
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He added white slipcovers and even made this trumeau mirror, himself!!!   I loved this version, but Artie felt it was now TOO light and too feminine…so he changed it yet again.

 
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Here, he got a new slipcover, in taupe, not white – and added the zebra rug.  Looking back on this version, it really looks good!  Very chic.  Very put together and finally, very Artie!

But, of course, he had to change it all, yet again.   Artie – have you thought about talking to a professional?   Nah.  He’s just an interior designer!!

 
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Finally, Artie faced the facts that the house called for warm, autumnal colors and he bought this antique sofa and covered it in a persimmon velvet.  Two arm chairs in yellow linen slips took the place of the oversized leather chairs that were never the right scale for the room.  The rug over the seagrass added more warmth.

 
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The adjacent dining room added more color and textures while a smaller, round skirted table replaced a large rectangular wood one.

 
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At one end of the dining room, Artie added a daybed in front of the silk curtains.

 
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And in the front sunroom, taupes and browns, velvets and linens, continued his new more edited, warmer look.

Finally, after so many starts and turns, Artie had truly listened to this house and gave it what it needed.  The problem was, what the house needed wasn’t what Artie needed.   He wrote that he craved light and bright and the house just seemed dark and old – and not in a good way.  It all came down to the orange hardwoods and all that dark woodwork!  Again!

As luck would have, Artie experienced major changes in his life.  In 2014, he went on a diet and lost about 100 pounds!  I didn’t even realize he was overweight! He went from being a bit chubby, (I always thought he was a cute chubby) to fit, cut, slim, healthy, athletic – gorgeousness! 

 
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I love this picture of the new skinny Artie – sitting on an oversized chair – probably a prop for a play.  He could be a model!!!

And there was one more huge change, Artie and his partner split up after 8 years and he suddenly was in the market for a new home.  Personally, I wanted him to move back to Texas and thought he and I would make great partners in a design business!!!

  Instead, he stayed in Buffalo and shopped for an apartment which he could design HIS way – bright and light – with no more dark oppressive woodwork.

 
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And then, he added a new friend to his life.  He hastily had to move from his first apartment that he had completely furnished to a new one, which allowed adorable dogs.

 
 
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The apartment was a plain box built in the 50s, but it had new carpeting and paint. This is the model unit.

 
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Instead of taking the new carpet, Artie arranged to have hardwoods placed down – for a small upcharge.  And the change took the apartment from ho-hum to WOW!

 
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And today!  WOW!  Artie placed a large seagrass for texture over the beautiful hardwoods.  Against the back wall, he added squares of antiqued mirror tiles for dimension. 

The camel back sofa is from his old house, now slipped in white.  At the window are perfectly proportioned white linen curtains, with a textured blind hiding the dreaded dead spot.  The room is long – so dividing it into two conversation areas is a slipped ottoman that doubles as a chaise and a bed for guests!!!   LOVE!!!!!

 
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Opposite the ottoman is this wonderful Swedish antique armoire
Artie recently purchased,  flanked by antlers and chairs and blue and white porcelains which add a bit of color.   Two French chairs are slipped in the classic tabbed style.

 
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On the left is a gallery wall, filled with black and white and sepia toned art which Artie purchased since moving here.

 
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On the sofa is the one perfect pillow when you use all white – a silk velvet tiger by Scalamandre Le Tigre.
 
 
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And, near the kitchen, Artie’s bar, organized neatly on a zinc tray.  It sits underneath Artie’s homage to Cy Twombly.  You need to sell these Artie!!! 

 
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Arlo matches the new decor perfectly!!  Isn’t he adorable?!

 
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In a bit of folly, instead of painting doors black or gray, Artie lacquered the hall door a bright red.  It is unexpected, which makes it that much more fun.  The red pulls in the nearby bedroom’s accent color.

 
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Of course, there have been lots of changes already!  This IS Artie after all!   Originally, there was no ottoman – and two antique stools were there instead.  Now they are in the dining room (still a work in progress.)   Back then , he placed a gilt mirror over the antique tiles, but he replaced this with the painted white arch.  And his beloved zebra rug?   Arlo ate it!   Artie, I feel your pain.  Micki tore mine up too!!!
 
 
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And this was a more recent change.  Before, against the left wall was this extra large faux Twombly by Artie.  I loved this and still am not sure he should have replaced it.  But, he doesn’t listen to me!!!    Instead, he chose to hang the smaller homage to Cy over the bar and create the gallery wall there:

 
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He’s probably right.  Instead of one piece, the gallery wall might be more interesting in such a small area.
The dining room is not finished yet, but the bedroom is: 
 
 
 
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Artie was inspired by Mark Sikes’ black guest room when he painted his own bedroom.  Instead of taking the paint all the way to the ceiling, he stopped, leaving a band of white – thus creating a faux architectural feature.  He added a piece of trim which is attached with simple tacks!

   Originally, he created a canopy frame, but it overwhelmed the room and he took it all down.  Today, an antique suzani is behind the linen headboard, adding texture and color.  
The mirrored lamps are from Couture Lamps.  The headboard is custom in linen with brass tacks, while the bedding is from Pottery Barn.  The suzani is from EBay – Uzbekistan.  The wall color is by Sherwin Williams - Black Magic.

 
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You can see from Artie’s apartment, that you can make a beautiful home, even without spending a great amount of money.  Artie is always full of ideas on how to create a chic house which is why his blog is so popular.  When he couldn’t afford an antique trumeau – he showed us how to make one!  He has shown us how to make an upholstered headboard, how to upholster a chair, and so many other DIY projects!   I just can’t wait to see the dining room/library finished and then I’m sure he’ll probably be moving to another place soon and the cycle will start again.

To visit Artie’s blog:  Color Outside the Lines, go HERE.

 
And so, while working full time and doing design work for clients, acting on stage too! - Artie also creates Cross Bottles – as the Cross Bottle Guy.  He recently became a sponsor – and is hosting a giveaway today.

 
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Here Artie describes his art:  Cross Bottles are made of antique and vintage chandelier prisms that have been forged, by hand, using antique stained glass techniques to create cross shapes. Some shapes are very literal, and others are more imaginative or inspired. These beautiful pieces of art, one of a kind in every way, are then attached forever to an antique bottle.

Here a some pictures I really love of the cross bottles from his web site:

 
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This bottle has beading attached to it.

 
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This has a pink shell affixed to the top.

 
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A set of crystal cross tops.

 
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A pink shell cross.

 
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A set of cross bottles massed together.

 
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A classic cross in crystal with a religious pendant.

Now, for the giveaway – go to Cross Bottle Guy’s web site HERE and pick out your favorite bottle.  Come back here, and leave me a comment, telling me your favorite bottle.  Be sure to leave your email address on the comment in case you win!

The contest runs all this week until Saturday February 6th, at 11:59 pm.
The giveaway is a gift certificate worth $100!

Thank you to Artie for the giveaway and good luck to everyone!!!

 
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177 comments :

  1. They are all beautiful, but I like EP 301.
    Nycpetite at AOL dot com

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  2. Ooohhh! My favorite was ICEFLSK. But they are all gorgeous!

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  3. It was so much fun to see how Artie's style has evolved over the years!!!! I had totally forgotten about those four leather club chairs he had in his living room. I absolutely LOVE his new apartment, the lighter look is so him and is just stunning!!!! All of his bottles are so beautiful...it is hard to pick a favorite. If I have to pick just one though it would be LFCFR because it has the metal France tag on it of course!!!
    ~Des

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  4. I loved seeing this post and his changes in design. Inspirational. My favorite cross bottle is LFCFR. Absolutely perfect! Thank you for this give away and best of luck to everyone!

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  5. What a wonderful inspiring post . I love all of them but especially rclfc, going by memory here but you featured it in your post, it has the religious medal. Thanks sweets. Xoxo

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  6. You always do a great job Joni!
    My favorite bottle is called Simp 2.

    Thank you!
    Dee
    drobbins111@me.com

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  7. Followed his blog for a long time now, just love the new apartment and that gorgeous new little four legged baby. All the bottles are fantastic. Looking forward to seeing the dining room.

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  8. Love them all - APC3D is so sweet and also STB8A!

    Heidi hfeury@gmail.com

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  9. What creative delights! I love AQTDBAL1....color, and cross! These would be wonderful gifts!
    krislburks@gmail.com

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  10. APCwR was so sweet, but they are all really beautiful! He is very talented. Arlo is precious, too.
    Thank you for making us aware of his bottles.- Deri
    1stmate.ruffc@gmail.com

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  11. I have followed Artie's blog for some time now. Not only does he share his beautiful design and decor, but also his heart. I love all the cross bottles. I would begin a new collection with any one that has a religious medal or rosary attached. I would be thrilled to win. Thank you.

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  12. Artie (as a person and a designer) is absolutely delightful! I love all of the Cross Bottles on his blog but particularly like the ICEFLSK. This bottle's combination of the antiques flask, the cross and the rosary is a perfect symbol of grace, both aesthetically and spiritually. The bottle just speaks to my soul! I enjoy your blog and our mutual admiration of Artie ... Keep trying to bring him back to Texas!

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    1. This was so sweet! :) A return to Texas might not be too far off. Keep your fingers crossed!

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  13. So hard to pick just one! I just recently ordered a bottle from Artie and it is beautiful. I love APC3D...love the old crosses on top. Thanks for a great giveaway!
    djbreck@yahoo.com

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  14. I collect Crosses, and one of Artie's masterpieces would be a prize! My favorite was the SIMICE. The old bottles are great with them!

    Thanks,
    Robbie
    Ghar110259@aol.com

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  15. Thank you for featuring Artie with his decorating skills and most of all his beautiful bottles. I am in love with OV5POC. Joni you have a great blog............

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  16. Thank you for featuring Artie with his decorating skills and most of all his beautiful bottles. I am in love with OV5POC. Joni you have a great blog............

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  17. Thank you for featuring Artie with his decorating skills and most of all his beautiful bottles. I am in love with OV5POC. Joni you have a great blog............

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  18. Thank you for featuring Artie with his decorating skills and most of all his beautiful bottles. I am in love with OV5POC. Joni you have a great blog............

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  19. I love Artie's apartment! The light furniture makes it seem more spacious while the fun pops of color keep it from being overwhelmingly white. It's unfortunate, but not too surprising, that Arlo ate the zebra rug - good thing he's cute!! I am surprised the seagrass rug has survived as my pets mistook mine for the backyard.

    Artie's Cross Bottles are gorgeous and I can envision them in a beautiful grouping! To start my collection I would love the APCwR. There's something about the open cross, the aged pewter, the bottle's patina, and the medal with beads that makes my heart stutter! If I don't win it I'll have to buy it!! info@twoothtimer.com

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  20. Love RCLFC! I am enchanted by the large grouping you have pictured, Joni....a stunning focal point that is so elegant and doesn't overwhelm. The light refraction on these pieces magnifies them beautifully.
    Now how did he lose that weight.....??

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    1. I was so excited I forgot my email! Grc.ltd.design@gmail.com

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  21. Mike2 is an ethereal art piece. Would love as an art piece to start my morning meditation

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  22. I have been following Artie forever!!! He certainly has taught me to try and try again until you like it. He new place is just wonderful. He's turned his light and bright vision into warm and interesting. Love every transition. I've been meaning to get around to getting a cross bottle. Looking today, I would say that LGTD with the amber bottle and russian center crystal jumped to the top of the list.. Oh please let me win!! ;-)
    mrlsbennett@yahoo.com

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  23. SO many to choose from. I like ICEFLSK as one of my top favs...but there are so many to choose from.

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  24. My favorite is APCwR. I subscribe to his Blog and enjoy it. Thank you.
    terri.benton at gmail.com

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  25. Joni thank you for featuring Artie, his decor and his fabulous Cross Bottles!
    He is a a true gent! I have several of his works of art, they are so precious to me!

    xoxo
    Karena
    The Arts by Karena

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  26. Loved this post and love his bottles, all of them! My favorite is CLHFLSK. Would love to add this to my bottle collection!
    laura.brevard@atmosenergy.com

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  27. Wow! Thanks for sharing Artie and his great blog! I love the bottles especially RCLFC...and his home design is beautiful!

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  28. Joni - one of your best posts in that you show how those of us that don't leave in designer homes can still have a beautiful
    space - my favorite is PCC... but I love them all - time to start a "new" collection....simplyfrench45@gmail.com

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  29. I love Artie's blog and also have followed along for years. I cannot wait to see more changes to his current home. Love his Cross Bottles- I love them all, but MIKE2, wood look perfect in our stone house. fink robin@gmail.com

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  30. I am in love with AQSNF, these bottles are stunning! Thank you for sharing Artie's talent, his spaces have been great but his current apartment is fabulous! I want to copy everything!

    jkeppel@prodigy.net

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  31. It was so hard to choose just one! I think RCLFC is the one I liked best. For now. nhanks@umn.edu

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  32. I think ICEFLSK is just one of my favorites. They are all beautiful!

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  33. Love, love them all!! A4IC is so beautiful and would look so good in my home. Thanks for the giveaway!
    E-mail: gloria@nrwa.org

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  34. ICEFLSK! Love it! gimbloom@gmail.com

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  35. OMG-STB8A is gorgeous! Amber bottle, beautiful top, ahhhh love!
    oumom2015@yahoo.com - Linda Dixon

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  36. My favorite is the petite SMOC, but they are all beautiful. Thank you

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  37. Oh my goodness! When I started to look at these, my first thought was how could anyone choose just one to be their favorite. Then I saw LFCFR. It is stunning,just remarkable. bstoby@charter.net

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  38. VIRRND is my favorite, love love Artie's bottles, he's fabulous I've seen others and no one compares to his fabulous cross bottles. It was hard to choose, I could pick any and be thrilled. Thank you. pamwaldron2000@yahoo.com

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  39. Wow! These are amazing. What a beautiful way to preserve and showcase beautiful old bottles and crystals. I love them all but AQSNF really caught my eye!
    michelleb55@comcast.net

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  40. ABSREC is calling my name. Love the abstract crystal arrangement, as well as the fact that the bottle is from Pittsburgh, PA, where I was born. Fate?

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  41. What a FUN friend to have!! Gees, I looked over that collection several times already...I'm going with the MEDDCCR This bottle is embossed on the left and right sides. It is embossed to read:
    "A&P EXTRACTS" - since my son and grandson initials are...AP. CHEERS!! franki fmparde@gmail.com

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  42. I love his style! I would proudly take any one of them but I particularly like RCLFC & AQSNF. Love his work so much. Thank you, Joni, for introducing him again!!

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  43. Wow what a great post, I enjoyed viewing all the changes he has done to his home....his new apartment sure is beautiful.....and how sweet is his fur baby.....Ohhh but that poor zebra rug....ouch.....
    His bottle are drool worthy......I'm loving them all but my fav is LFCFR....

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  44. I like the A41C the best... if I won, I would pick that and 2 others!

    Thanks, Olivia
    Livvie365@gmail.com

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  45. What an adventure I just had visiting CRoss Bottle Guy! Being from Santa Fe, NM, crosses are our 'everyday life'. I especially loved your post on his homes and the way he shows no fear on moving things around and constant change.
    My favorite bottle is OOC01. Just know tho, it was very hard to choose. They are all stunning!
    indigorhane@yahoo.com

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  46. LOVE Artie!!! I've been reading his blog for years, AND I own two of his cross bottles! They are beautiful on my bathroom vanity :) I really might have to buy one of the pink crystal or pink shell bottles. They are just so unique. The other one that caught my eye was the "rosary ring", mainly because we gave everyone a rosary ring at my mother's funeral 15 years ago! I still have mine and cherish it. Thanks Joni and Artie...PS should've moved to Houston, Artie!!!!

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  47. I'm not entering the giveaway, but thank you so much for letting me know about Arnie and his blog. I loved seeing the work he did on the cottage, working to get the right look that made both him and the house happy. It's an inspiration for anyone else -- and there are many -- dealing with that orange wood trim. And he, and his new friend, are adorable : ) .

    Rebecca

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  48. I love ICEFLSK!! rlcdavis@hotmail.com Thank you.

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  49. All the cross bottles are exquisite!
    Since I must choose ... i pick ABSREC ... because it is unique.
    Artie is a very talented young man!!!

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  50. While all of Artie's creations are breathtaking and gorgeous, ABSREC is my pick! The color and asymmetrical aspect are exquisite on this piece. Thanks so much for the giveaway, but, especially the intro to his creative blog!
    Bmiller21@bellsouth.net

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  51. What a talented and creative artist! I love Artie's decorating style and his cross bottles. Hard to pick one, but I keep going back to GRLF1. Thanks for the opportunity. cwilhillaticlouddotcom

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  52. These are beautiful! I really like the shorter ones. I like RC4POV but someone beat me to it. Love his new apartment. trudlebug3@gmail.com

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  53. Thank you for introducing us to Artie, his chic decorating style, and these stunning bottles. What a beautiful piece of jewelry for any room!

    My favorite is MEDOCCR. When I first laid eyes on this elegant creation, I immediately saw a queen! While small in stature, her silhouette commands respect, her dazzling crown of crystals establishes legitimacy to rule, and the pendant adorning her neck symbolizes the unwavering faith she has in all that is good within her kingdom. There is no mistaking this queen's magnificence, righteousness, or her glory. Long live the Queen!!!
    (karenaperville@yahoo.ca)

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  54. Love all of Artie's beautiful art, especially STB8A. rynnhenn@aol.com

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  55. hi joni!
    great post,per usual. i do remember artie and his homemade trumeau, he inspired me to make my own as well. i really like the red canyon series on his bottle cross site. so happy you and artie have found such a supportive relationship together, especially glad you shared it with us!

    i hope you know your blog, sweet disposition and wicked humor have really lifted me up during the dark days of rehabbing a 200 yr old pile in rural chester co., pa. truly.

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  56. Love Artie! I am lucky to own a few of his spectacular pieces but would love to add GRLF1 to my collection. Thanks for this generous giveaway, best of luck to everyone. Sarah sarahrideout@bellsouth.net

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  57. Love Artie! He is such a star and such a hottie!
    I like the AMSIM on the amethyst bottle section...
    I love everything Artie does, and so jealous of his French Bulldog!
    Dean Farris

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  58. Beautiful art, especially AQSNF.
    ydonna3@aol.com

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  59. APCWR. They are all very beautiful! What he has done with his home is fabulous. It looks like a completely different place. Wishing him blessings in his new home and this latest chapter of his life. lbprich@bellsouth.net

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  60. Hard to choose, but Mike 2 has such great scale, style and patina!

    Nickidpost@hotmail.com

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  61. I would pick T4SB - it's gorgeous. Thank you.

    djbrantley99@gmail.com

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  62. What a fabulous collection ! I've decided on the Aqua AQFALI in 10.25" would be a good start for my collection. And then I'll add A41C in a dk Amethyst with the fabulous faceted cross.
    I like the design statement of evolving ones' own living space as they go forward - Sort of the way our actual lives evolve. Wow, what a clever man he is validating the idea of being our own decorator.
    Thank you so much for this introduction.
    emilie.pirrone@gmail.com

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  63. Loved this post and thank you for introducing us to Artie and those gorgeous bottle/crosses. It is very hard to pick a favorite. I finally decided on AQSFAL. I could change my mind though at the drop of a hat.
    islaotullos@gmail.com

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  64. My favorite is STB8A. It reminds me of snowflakes. I've been following Artie's blog for years. I have enjoyed watching him experiment with different ideas in his former home and I am looking forward to seeing what he does in his new space.
    jill.valeri@verizon.net

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  65. It is like choosing your favorite child!! But AQSNF really stole my heart! I love the green tint to the bottle and the cross is so pretty.
    I really enjoyed seeing the transformations of his home and am glad he is settled for the home in his beautiful apartment. He really should come to Houston...you too could be the dynamic duo down there! Then you could come to Fort Worth and do my house!

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  66. Forgot my email. marilynyshannon@gmail.com

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  67. Oh my gosh!!! Artie is so hot!!! I have bought his cross bottles and always get heart palpitations when I get an email that he has posted new ones. My current favorite is MIKE2 as I am drawn to the bottles that have a distinctive cross on them. However, once I've bought one of each design I will get a wreath bottle...they are way cool! I totally enjoyed seeing the evolution of Artie's homes....he is extremely talented, while keeping costs in mind. I really like that! Thanks for featuring him, Joni!!

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  68. Oops, forgot my email, too! It is harborgirl62@icloud.com

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  69. So many beautiful options on his site! Two of m y faves are VIRRND and RCLFC. yysgirl@aol.com

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  70. I would love to win one of the amethyst bottles, as I have a perfect spot for it that just has a bit of purple in the room. to add one of those bottles would be awesome. I have one of Artie's bottles and I love it. fingers crossed. also, I keep up on your blog and his. both among my favorites. maggieandme52@yahoo.com

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  71. Its almost impossible to pick just one They are all so beautiful BUT my favorites are the cat eye crystal ov5poc and the floral inspired rcflw Thank You for offering this giveaway
    linda m 5054oldcars@att.net

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  72. Joni - this is a fantastic post. Perhaps you should feature more regular renovations/ newly decorated rooms of your readers on your blog? Readers could send in their before and after pictures and you could provide advice? Would be great to see this type of post on a monthly basis! Thanks Joni.

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  73. Joni,
    What a fantastic post on Artie and his many interiors! I'm fortunate to call him a friend also, even having had him at the farmhouse a couple of years ago. He is a wonderful designer and I often forget that he is barely in his 30's. I think his talent and aesthetics have such depth for someone so young. I, too, have talked with him many times, over the years, about the constant changes he made in the old house as he "tried on" different looks/designs to finally discover himself, his own style, and his design voice. His apartment is amazing and I am just so happy that you are giving him ( and his business) the recognition he deserves. Loved this post. You, Joni, are a gift to all of us who love design. Thank you for your work here.
    xxojoan

    (p.s. Great giveaway, but I'm not entering as I want someone new to have a piece of Artie's art.)

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  74. CLHFLSK is my favorite but I must say I really like them all.

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  75. T4SB is fabulous. They are all so beautiful. cheers

    vhopkins101@hotmail.com

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  77. Hard to choose just one but I think TDTB5 is the what I would pick if I won this contest! Beautiful bottles and crystals and I love the story of the transformation of his home!
    mpaint41@aol.com

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  78. I adore Simice. Love the design of the cross and shape of the bottle. But there are so many beautiful pieces. So hard to choose. Love the story about Artie's journey from dark wood to a bright clean and welcoming space. I live upstate too and have had my own adventures in dealing with gum wood. Fun to read about someone else who was dealing with similar challenges. Thank you, Joni, for your gorgeous and inspiring blog. Always a treat to come here.

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  79. AQSNF - beautiful! skran at austin.rr.com

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  80. So difficult to choose. They are all so beautiful! Very talented man! But I do love Mike2! Tymeout2@hotmail.com

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  81. RCFLW but they are all fabulous! aliceams@hotmail.com

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  82. I love each and every one of them. Iceflsk is a beauty though.

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  83. Have loved and admired his work for a long time. They are all beautiful, but I love TDBAL2. Thanks for the chance to win!
    Barisone@sbcglobal,net

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  84. I would have to pick AQSNF simply stunning like everything he does!!!! Fingers crossed for the cross bottle!!!

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  85. I've gone over and over all the beautiful bottles and it's nearly impossible to choose one favorite. But untimately, I do love the amber demijohn of STB8A....as my husband always says, I have a knack for scouting out the most expensive! Fabulous work, Artoe! cjwatson.watson@gmail.com

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  86. I love the petite size of the SMOC. I purchased a larger bottle from Artie years ago and they would be a perfect match! Artie - I love the addition of the French rosaries! Oh my, I just went back and looked again and I LOVE STB8A. Might have to go shopping :)
    Thank you both for the opportunity!
    jldharris@gmail.com

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  87. Wow! All are gorgeous but I think my favorite is VIRRND.

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  88. I remember how excited I was when I found Artie's blog, Color Outside the Lines. I'm from Buffalo and was so inspired by Artie. Then I discovered the Cross Bottle Guy, fell in love with several "Buffalo" Cross Bottles, but they were always sold out. So happy to see that Artie is back in business! I honestly love all of his designs, but if I had to pick one favorite it would have to be LFCO. Congratulations, Artie, on all your success! amanoroftaste@bellsouth.net

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  89. I love Artie's work and have a collection of 6 cross top bottles! I really missed his work last year and so happy he is back in the studio! Congrats to Artie for all his hard work and dealing with some difficult changes in life in such a positive way with a lot of grace. Of course I love all the bottles on his site but if I had to choose on at this moment, it would be AQTDBAL1 (love the color of the bottle)! Congrats again Artie and thank you Joni! taringeisen@gmail.com

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  90. I love Artie! Happy to see that he is making the bottles again. Hard to choose but my favorite would be AQSNF. Thanks! kateshotwell51@gmail.com

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  91. So many beauties to choose from but LFOC is one of my favorites.

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  92. You two really are design soul mates! I would choose AQSNF or any with religious pendants. A wonderful blessing for my new home and a new start. Lizzzyt2000@yahoo.com.

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  93. Oh My...these are spectacular!!! I can just see a grouping of various heights of the clear bottles on a large brass tray...DEVINE! Although it's hard to choose just one, I think my favorite is LFCO. THANK YOU so much for profiling Artie on your blog and for this marvelous giveaway. To say he is very talented would be an understatement and I love the new addition to his family!!!! irish10@roadrunner.com

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  94. I love it when you post about people you know and adore. Artie is my fav, by far! His bottles, too, are right down my alley. I love the shells, in particular, the cowrie, and some of the crosses are so fabulous. For me, the bottles are as important as the crosses to the overall look of the piece. Of course I love OV5POC with the oval crystals from Germany. Wishing Artie week with his new life!

    Thanks Joni for a great read and look!
    Alexis
    alkel@mac.com

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  95. that was brilliant im looking forward for more pictures


    You won't believe this Top Austin Tow Truck

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  96. WH5PR is a favorite but betting you cannot stop with just one...susandavis3810@gmail.com

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  97. I love the LFCO, the first one shown; just beautiful! I look forward to enjoying his blog, love his style. The blue and white accents are there, just what i love. Thanks, Joni! sonyawiley97@yahoo.com

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  98. If he ever moves to Texas, I want him to have complete control over my home and transform it! I want the one with the clam shells! My go ahead and start my collection. Chhumph3@ Comcast.net

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  99. I like stb8a. All beautiful! Boatdreamer@me.com.

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  100. I love the SMOC. The perect petite size to gift to my granddaughter to start teaching her about collecting. A perfect piece to start her first collection.

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  101. I love them all--each unique in a special way. However the VIRRND, inspired by your Mom, had me at hello! Thanks so much for the chance to win.

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  102. Great post Joni. I am an Arti fan like all the rest. It was great to see how the house in Buffalo evolved under his wonderful designers eye. He would be a great designer for someone new to the decorating process because he has so many great ideas. He understands the "budget" part too! I love his new apartment....wow what a beautiful space. Thank you for the Arti house retrospective. It might be interesting to call Scott in about a year to see what the house looks like without Arti....; )) Cheers Kelley

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  103. What a fabulous giveaway! Artie's apartment is so amazing. He totally transformed the space. WOW! I have been following his blog for quite some time now thanks to you Joni! I found his blog on your blog many moons ago. It is so great that you two are still in touch. I loved all the Cross Bottles on the site.. I had 2 faves... GRLF1 & AQ5SC

    xo,

    Ivy

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  104. I really love the simplicity of WH5PR with it's hazy pharmacy bottle. What a great piece for those of us who love antiques! kristylewis77@gmail.com

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  105. Joni, first may I say that your blog is a stunning inspiration and joy to read - always !
    Thank you for sharing with us your friend Artie - a pretty talented guy. His bottles are truly beautiful...
    and I guess I would say I find STB8A very special, as though a star has fallen to earth.
    I am happy to read his story and feel his life is opening even fuller after all the changes he's gone through.


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  106. There is not one of those bottles I wouldn't love to have, but I think that AQSNF is my fave! I'm so happy to know of his blog and website, and I absolutely love his design asthetic. Thanks once again, Joni.

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  107. There is not one of those bottles I wouldn't love to have, but I think that AQSNF is my fave! I'm so happy to know of his blog and website, and I absolutely love his design asthetic. Thanks once again, Joni.

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  108. Great post Joni! I particularly loved seeing the different incarnations of of Artie's room. You forget how much simple changes like paint of rug texture etc. can make in a room. I loved the Zebra rug version and was transfixed by the difference the introduction of the persimmon tones made in the feeling of the room. Thanks again. Laura.
    Email: laurakeating1 at yahoo dot com

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  109. I have been a big fan of Artie (ben) for a long time who has definitely come a long way since roaming the halls of HGTV where I first met him and am so happy that you featured him Joni. Regarding the bottle; though all very beautiful I would love AQTDBAL092 as I have the perfect shelf to display it on. (Though a Canadian I live very close to the U.S.A. border so do have a U.S.A. address that it could be mailed to ... ☺.) -Brenda-

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  110. RC41C is stunning! Centrealumna@yahoo.com

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  111. Either APCwR or STB8A would be perfect! Love these! You pick if I win!

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  112. Great article; I want to hang out Cross Bottle Guy and his dog now! My personal favorites are the non-crossy ones, like MEDTOP :-)

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  113. I actually had one of Artie's bottles and it fell off the edge of my counter and broke. :(. I would love a replacement and any of them would be welcome in my home!

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    1. Lynn, I'd like to replace this for you. Can you please email me directly? We'll work it out!
      Artie
      artie.vanderpool@gmail.com

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  114. Oh my goodness - just found these gorgeous bottles! Love, love! RCFLW - the flower bottle - really brings a smile! Beautiful bottle, happy flower -

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  115. Artie is one talented guy. The bottles are wonderful. I tend to like the red rock canyon bottles. Fond memories of family rock hunting when I was little. So it's RCLFC for me.
    Or, maybe the TDBAL2 bottle from Beckers Pure Horseradish to go with my name.

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  116. Its always fun to see a room evolve into a creative and artistic space! Great job Artie!

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  117. My favorite is he AQSNF bottle. Love Artie's new place, & love both of your blogs!
    Karen dekawatson@bellsouth.ney

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  118. APC3D! Or ANY of them! Oh I LOVE a collection! So beautiful. Sighn

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  119. What a great post, Joni! Love seeing all the changes and am glad to know I am not the only person always craving change, haha! I love the A4SC bottle (really would be happy with any of them- they are all beautiful!)

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  120. Although they are all gorgeous, the first one, LGSFL, is my favorite. The combination of the old cobalt glass with the crystals reminds me of my engagement ring. And I really enjoyed your post on Artie's serial decorating--he's great!

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  121. I love all of the bottles, but the cross is my favorite - WH5PR.

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  122. I absolutely adore the MIKE2 with the ivy cut crystals. It is a perfect size!
    nancy61611@aol.com

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  123. STB8A is my favorite! It has connections with Kentucky and Missouri, and so do I.......my great grandparents migrated from Kentucky to the Mo. boot heel. toriabdesigns@yahoo.com

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  124. I can only gather I have been living under a rock... I have never heard of Artie, his blog or Cross Bottles. I'm now in love with all plus his adorable dog! I have been looking for the perfect housewarming gift for my daughter. She always names her houses...her new one is Rood Cottage based on a family name. Rood means cross. Could there be a better gift (and the start of a collection) than a Cross Bottle? I adore LFCFR. Joanie, I always learn something from reading your incredible blog! Leslie
    scarlett6984@me.com

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  125. Well Artie is sure an arty guy! I agree with you, we need him back in Texas. I love the STB8A demi-john shaped bottle with the rays. Thanks again and again for your delightful blog. annmelamed@gmail.com

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  126. I had no idea Artie designed these gorgeous bottles with crystal stoppers. They are incredible! I would be so lucky to own one myself. I really love the LFCFR with the rustic looking bottle. It reminds me of going through my grandmother's things. She used to save every bottle.

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  127. I liked bottle LGSFL the cross in the cobalt blue bottle .
    patsy.floyd@gmail.com

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  128. I liked bottle LGSFL the cross in the cobalt blue bottle .
    patsy.floyd@gmail.com

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  129. What a great post, Artie is so talented...can't wait to visit his blog. I love the Mike 2...all of the cross bottles are beautiful. Fingers crossed!
    Thanks Joni! Skmatte@aol.com

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  130. What a talented guy. Lovely post. It was so hard to choose a favorite but I really like AQSNF. Iit would look beautiful with my 17th century Russian icon. Thnks Joni. pampatz@hotmail.com

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  131. This is a fun post! I had a really hard time choosing but WH5PR is my choice. Thanks for doing this! gkanderson7@gmail.com

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  132. All of the cross bottles are beautifulI, but I love the LFCFR: it's marvelous! I hope that it will arrive to me in Italy!!! GRAZIE!!! grazia.cannavo@gmail.com

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  133. All of the cross bottles are beautifulI, but I love the LFCFR: it's marvelous! I hope that it will arrive to me in Italy!!! GRAZIE!!! grazia.cannavo@gmail.com

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  134. My favorite cross bottle is GRLF1 because the prisms are leaf shaped and the bottle is green. What a beautiful combination! Thank you for sharing! Pmsnow1@gmail.com

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  135. My favorite is the cross bottle with the religious pendant. Thanks for sharing....shabbyloft@aol.com

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  136. Oh, how to choose! I love them all, but AMSIM caught my eye. The amethyst bitters bottle is beautiful and I love the little story of how this simple cross design became the inspiration for all the following designs. Good work, Artie. I agree with Joni. Come back to Texas. You are so talented! wat251@gmail.com

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  137. All so beautiful, and I fell down the rabbit hole of reading a great blog that is new to me. My favorite might be AQSNF I think. laurahof@gmail.com

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  138. These bottles are beautiful! Hard to choose but I think my favorite is LFCFR... beautiful design work...another great post Joni! featheringthenest1@gmail.com

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  139. Fan of Artie's... I choose THE A1 SAUCE embossed bottle

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  140. Artie's cross bottles are beautiful - I love that he uses antique bottles and his crosses are stunning - I really like these! One of my favorites (so hard to choose) is RCFLC - the soft variations of warm clay colors on the bottle and the cross is lovely. Thanks!

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  141. I love the whole story. This guy is a lot like me, though I am not a decorator I move things constantly. (wish I had more money to play with!!)
    I love the LFCFR Bottle and would be thrilled to have one.
    Thank you, as always, for fun experiences. I learn so much. I will definitely start following this guy.

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  142. Thank you so much for offering such a lovely and generous giveaway. My favorite: http://crossbottleguy.blogspot.com/2016/02/rcflw.html

    clogzilla(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  143. LGSFL is my favorite. Love the blue bottle. Ooooh, and that livingroom with the white sofa is fabulous.

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  144. CLHFLSK is my fave. All of them are amazing though! This man has so much style and talent. Loved this post.

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  145. awww bummer...just missed the cut off! Thanks for the lovely post though.... ARLO IS TOO CUTE!

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  146. Even though I've missed the cut off I wanted to say how much I enjoyed this post! How fun to see his rooms/houses evolve like that - I wish I had photos of all the incarnations of my house! Artie, your house is just perfect! I love, love all the changes and I think it reflects you the best. It is antique but modern, cool but warm. In a word - perfect. I've always enjoyed your blog, as well as Joni's. And your new little guy is adorable!

    Thanks Joni - what a fun post!

    Sheila
    www.maisondecinq.blogspot.com

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  147. Even though I've missed the cut off I wanted to say how much I enjoyed this post! How fun to see his rooms/houses evolve like that - I wish I had photos of all the incarnations of my house! Artie, your house is just perfect! I love, love all the changes and I think it reflects you the best. It is antique but modern, cool but warm. In a word - perfect. I've always enjoyed your blog, as well as Joni's. And your new little guy is adorable!

    Thanks Joni - what a fun post!

    Sheila
    www.maisondecinq.blogspot.com

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