Easy 123 Art Paint by Number Review & Giveaway

Disclaimer: This review and giveaway is brought to you by Easy 123 Art.

Growing up in a family of artists (including myself) there never seems to be a shortness of creativity. But did you know that even if you aren’t of the artistic nature, that it’s still as easy as 123, with Easy 123 Art!

Makers of the Photo by Numbers Kit, I was super excited when they offered me up the chance to test out their mini 8×8 paint by number kit.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

So first things first, I had to choose one of my photos that I wanted to turn into a paint by number. This was no easy task if you have seen the number of photographs my mom takes of me on a daily basis. So we finally settled on this shot of me on the Cape May Beaches this summer.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

We sent my photo off to Easy 123 Art, and they sent me back this nifty little paint by number kit a few days later.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

Complete with brushes and acrylic paints numbered to match the blocks on your art, it was time for mom to get painting!

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

Mom decided to use some of her own paintbrushes she had on hand for the detailed stuff, but it was noted in the directions that you could trim the ends of the brushes included with a pair of scissors to get a more detailed brush.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

Starting with the smallest numbers first, slowly mom began to make progress on my painting.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

Over a week, working on it here and there at the shop, my painting was starting to take shape.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

After the painting was complete this is what it looked like. Mom decided to do a little editing herself though and painted over the id tag from my collar that she didn’t think was necessary, and when it was all said and done it looked like this….

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

I was quite impressed, and the only thing missing was a frame! So being that I work in a custom framing shop I just couldn’t leave this work of art unfinished.

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

So here’s the finished product, which is happily hanging on the wall at the shop!

Easy 123 Art’s Paint by Numbers kits come in several different sizes, and the coolest part is that you can turn ANY photo you have into a work of art. These would make great gifts for the holidays, so make sure you add them to your Christmas lists!

Easy 123 Art Paint by Number // Review & Giveaway // Ammo the Dachshund

And now for the best part…

ONE Lucky WINNER will WIN an 8×8 Mini Paint by Number Kit

Here’s HOW TO WIN:

For this giveaway I will be using, Rafflecopter. We only use the information you provide to contact the winners and we never share it – so not to worry. Winners will be chosen at random and you will be contacted via e-mail to claim your prize. All the winners will also be announced on this blog post once the giveaway ends on 11/12/13 12AM EST. Open to US Residents Only. Winners must claim their prizes within 48 hours of being notified or prize will be forfeited. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don’t forget, today is the last day to enter my Sleepypod Air Giveaway! 

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Easy 123 Art, but all opinions are my own.Ammo the Dachshund

Painting with Minnow

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

This is Minnow, one of the most talented artists you’ll ever meet, and he’s my bestest pony friend.

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting is one of Minnow’s favorite things to do, can’t you tell by that big smile on his face?

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

When Minnow gets ready to paint I’m never far from his side, because every great artist needs an assistant.

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Trooper likes to help too sometimes, but he doesn’t always have the focus to be a great painting assistant.

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

I on the other hand might as well have paint flowing through my veins, and the messier the job the better!

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

Painting with Minnow the Painting Pony // Ammo the Dachshund

I did a pretty good job helping Minnow make a mess now didn’t I?

Check out more of the famous paintings by Minnow and his pals at www.PaintingPony.com – also make sure you follow them on Facebook!Ammo the Dachshund

May 2013 Monthly Recap and Sponsor Shoutout!

It’s time to take a look back over the past month at all the exciting things I’ve done! So just incase you missed it, here are some of my highlights from May!

Product Review: Orijen Freeze-Dried Pet Treats from Chewy.com // Ammo the Dachshund

I got to test out some of Orijen’s Freeze-Dried Treats from Chewy.com – they were yummy! Product Review: Orijen Freeze-Dried Treats from Chewy.com

Billy Wolf Giveaway and Sale // Ammo the Dachshund

I hosted a Giveaway with my friends at Billy Wolf. Billy Wolf Giveaway & Sale

Got Gold Fishes // Ammo the Dachshund

I went for a run on the farm. Got Gold Fishes

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

I showed off some of my most recent paintings. Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund

A Day of Sticks // Ammo the Dachshund

I helped mom and dad clean up sticks in my backyard that were left from the hurricane. A Day of Sticks

Kyley and Ammo the Dachshund // Dog Mom

I wished all the dog moms (and two legged moms) a Happy Mother’s Day. Happy Mother’s Day to the Dog Moms

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

I showed off some of the art that I’ve collected around my home. A Dachshund’s Art Gallery

Barn Hunt with Ammo the Dachshund

I went on a barn hunt with my gal pal Liebe. I Went on a Barn Hunt

Nose Art by Ammo the Dachshund

I made some beautiful artwork on mom’s windows. Nose Art

Dining at 4 Dogs Tavern with a Dog // Ammo the Dachshund

I went out to eat at the Four Dogs Tavern. Tonight We Dine

Rodeo in Amish Country // Ammo the Dachshund

I got to check out a local Rodeo. Rodeo in Amish Country

Pickle Pocket - Treat Dispenser for Dogs - Review // Ammo the Dachshund

I showed everyone my new toy. My Pickle Pocket – Treat Dispenser for Dogs

Trooper as a Puppy // Ammo the Dachshund

I wished my best friend Trooper a Happy Birthday. Happy 6th Birthday Trooper

Ammo the Dachshund // 4th of July // USA

I remembered the soldiers on Memorial Day. Memorial Day Remembrances

Ammo and Shilah // Ammo the Dachshund

I got to hang out with my pal Shilah the Husky. Baseball, Huskies, and First Aid Kits

Stink Happens // Dirty Dog // Ammo the Dachshund

I rolled in the most awful thing ever and it was glorious! Stink Happens

Sponsor Shoutout:

It’s time for me to send a big wet sloppy kiss to my sponsors! They keep my website up and running and make it possible for me to bring you lots of adventures!

Sponsor: K9 Carfence // Ammo the Dachshund

K9 CarFence is the perfect thing to keep your pets safe in the car. Their unique safety net catches and cradles dogs in a soft strong net in case of sudden stops. It allows your pets to move freely about, while still protecting them while you drive. It’s a must have for anyone who enjoys taking their pets on adventures with them!

K9 CarFence has also offered up a special promo code for all of our readers! Use AMMO at checkout to receive FREE SHIPPING on your order.

You can shop with K9 CarFence HERE and also be sure to like them on Facebook!

 

Sponsor: Envision Event Media // Ammo the Dachshund

Envision Event Media provides high-definition video production, customized editing, wireless studio-quality audio, and graphic design packages for all your video production needs. Based out of Asheville, North Carolina (but available to travel) Envision Event Media is run by my mom’s brother, Taylor Hellhake. So when you are looking for a videographer for your next big project, make sure you check out Envision Event Media!

If you would like to find out more about my advertising rates, click HERE.

And thanks again to all of my wonderful sponsors, I couldn’t do it without you!  Ammo the Dachshund

 

Nose Art

Nose Art by Ammo the Dachshund

I may have talented paws (check out my original paintings HERE), but did you also know I have a talented nose? Oh yes, I’ve been working on my original “nose art” (seen above) for quite some time now.

Nose Art by Ammo the Dachshund

It takes patience and some long long naps on the couch to perfect my technique – and the occasional bunny outside helps a bit too.

Nose Art by Ammo the Dachshund

I’ve been working on this masterpiece for a couple of months now, and while it’s looking quite swell I know there is still more to add.

Nose Art by Ammo the Dachshund

After all you can’t rush genius! Ammo the Dachshund

A Dachshund’s Art Gallery

Since I was just a wee pup I was instilled with a love of the arts. Not only do I paint myself, but I live with some super talented Painting Ponies! And while you might think having animal artists in the family is quite a feat, my mom and dad are no stranger to the arts themselves. My dad is a graphic designer (who spends his free time designing posters that you can purchase HERE) and my mom is a picture framer (check out the shop where I work HERE).

With a love of art spreading across my family, it’s no wonder that my home has turned into an art gallery of sorts. I thought it would be fun to take you for a tour around my home and show you some of the latest and greatest artistic treasures that are currently making my home just a bit more cheerful!

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

When I attended the Spring Doxie Fest this year I picked up a happy little Dachshund print from artist, Debbie Sampson. Of course mom framed him up in a happy yellow frame that makes him extra cheerful!

where to purchase: [middle] Dachshund Print – [right] Black and White Photograph of Pony

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Back in November mom picked up this cute little dachshund print from Kim at Yellow Brick Home. He kind of has an uncanny resemblance to yours truly.

where to purchase:  Dachshund Print

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

This happy horse head was a Christmas gift to my mom and came from White Faux Taxidermy – and not to worry, he’s completely made of resin (no real taxidermy horses here).

where to purchase:  Resin Horse Head

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Of course the ceramic dachshund my mom found at Home Goods last year keeps Mr. Fake Pony company in my office, because everything is better with the buddy system.

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

These two pieces arrived around Christmas time. One being a rendering of my home by the talented Rebekkah Seale and the other a very special original painting of cows done by the ever amazing Janis Fitch.

where to purchase:  [left] Custom House Watercolor, [right] Cow Painting

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

Those cows just remind me of how lucky I am to have grown up in farm country, where the smell of cattle and horses are just a few steps out my backdoor. Not to mention those yummy cow pies!

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

And the last little art trinket is one that just makes me giggle – this sweet little screen printed squirrel from the Land of Nod (meant to be an ornament) is happily hanging on my cork board in the living room. He may not nibble on acorns in real life, but he reminds me that there are plenty of critters just out my back door begging to be chased. Happy Hunting!

where to purchase:  Squirrel Ornament

A Dachshund's Art Gallery // Ammo the Dachshund

With all these artists and artistic pieces in my home it’s no wonder that I spend most of my life with a camera in my face. Of course I like to think that I’ll always be mom and dad’s number one muse!

I’m always on the lookout for new artists and art to add to my “gallery”, so I’d love to hear which ones you are admiring currently! Post your links in the comments so we can all check out some amazing art together! Yay for artists!

*all artwork has been custom framed by my mom at Studio 3.Ammo the Dachshund

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund

As you know, I have a whole slew of talents – many of which I document on this blog and one of which is PAINTING! I like to think of myself as a mini Picasso, and while I don’t technically wield a paintbrush – my paws are just oozing with talent! Just check out this video of me painting at the Spring Doxie Fest this year:

Now I know what you might be thinking, “but where can I buy these fabulous paintings that you made” – have no fear, I’ve recently added several of my creations to the Painting Pony Etsy Shop!

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

Paintings by Ammo the Dachshund // Shop Online

So if you’re looking for something spiffy and colorful to spruce up your walls this Spring then head on over to the Painting Pony Etsy Shop and check out some of my latest work!

And don’t forget, I donate a portion of my proceeds to my favorite animal rescues – so by purchasing a painting you get to help some animals in need! Double win! Ammo the Dachshund

Painting for a Cause

Ammo the Dachshund Artist

Lately I’ve been busy painting up a storm, readying myself for the Spring Doxie Fest, an event to benefit the dogs that I’ve been asked to attend and perform at.

Ammo the Dachshund Artist

These magical paws of mine will be painting for a cause on Sunday, April 21st in Bel Air, Maryland for their annual fundraising event.

Ammo the Dachshund Artist

If you are in the area I hope you’ll stop by and meet me! The event will be held from 11 – 3pm, with lots of fun contests for your dogs, as well as venders and entertainment for all! Find out more HERE.

Here’s a video from back when I first learned to paint:

My artwork and lots of doxie merchandise will be available for purchase at the event. I donate a percentage of all my sales to animal rescue groups.

Ammo the Dachshund

Spring Doxiefest

We still have the winter to get through first, but I’m anxiously awaiting the arrival of Spring. Especially this year, because it marks the 3rd Annual Spring Doxiefest in Bel Air, Maryland!

ammo the dachshund with painting pony

This year I will be attending this event on Sunday, April 21, 2013 from 11am – 3pm to be hosted by the Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue.

Flying Hero Etsy Shop via Ammo the Dachshund

I have been invited to paint and perform during the Doxiefest and I’ll also be bringing along some of my cards and dachshund merchandise.

Ammo the Dachshund performance at the Keystone Dachshund Races

I’ve already begun working on a new performance, which I hope to have ready for this event.

ammo the dachshund and painting pony at point to point races

So mark your calendars, prepare your dachshunds, and be ready for a day of doxie fun this Spring! I hope to see you there!

More details on this event can be found HERE. Ammo the Dachshund

Wrapping up the 13 Project

Now that it’s 2013 it’s time to wrap up my journey with the 13 Project.

Several months ago Serena from Pretty Fluffy had invited me to join The 13 Project, a wonderful initiative to get involved and help animals! So I put on my cape and decided to be the best hero I could to help the animals in need!

Ammo the Dachshund - Super Hero - On the Moon

Incase you missed it….

THE 13 PROJECT

The 13 Project is a Pretty Fluffy initiative that involves 13 acts of kindness towards animals before 2013. The goal is to embark on a list of 13 achievable and worthy goals before the year is out.

To join, all you have to do is come up with a list of up to 13 ways you can help animals before the end of 2013. You don’t need to be a millionaire, you don’t need to have a website, or be a member of a rescue organization … all you need is the desire to make a difference. Any little bit helps!

Ammo the Dachshund // The 13 Project Pretty Fluffy

I’ve spent the last few months working on completing my goals, and although I squeezed a few of them in at the very last minute, I love to think I helped make a difference.

My goals for the 13 Project….

1. Make a charitable contribution to some of my favorite rescue groups, as I have done for the past several years, through the help of sales of my paintings and artwork that my friends the Painting Ponies have made.

The Painting Ponies and I made some donations to The Chincoteague Pony Rescue and The Main Line Animal Rescue this year to help some of the animals searching for their forever homes. I like to think that every little bit helps, and I’m happy to use some of the funds from the sale of my products throughout the year to help some of the rescue organizations.

Ammo the Dachshund Super Hero and his Super Hero Pony

2. Get my photo taken with Santa at a place that donates the profits to rescue groups like I have done for the past 3 years.

I went to visit Santa at my Vet’s office this year in which the proceeds benefited the Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund for the animals.

12 Days of Cheer // Ammo's trip to see Santa

3. Promote some local rescue group events to all of my followers through FacebookI have shared a few rescue events with my fans so far, but hope to share even more!

4. Purchase some toys from Planet Dog, where 2% of my sale goes to the Planet Dog Foundation, an organization that helps fund the training and placement of service dogs.

Mom and Dad got me some new toys from Planet Dog for Christmas this year! I’m so happy that through the sale of these items I was able to help some very special service dogs.

The Day After Christmas // Ammo the Dachshund

5. Share some of the available adoptable dogs (like I have done in the past) at the local shelters with my followers. I shared a few of the adoptable pets at my local SPCA, and I hope to continue to share some of my four-legged friends that are in search of their forever homes.

Ammo the Dachshund // Lending a Helping Paw // My trip to the SPCA

6. Donate some of my old towels to a local animal shelter. I took a trip to the Chester County SPCA and donated a big box of unwanted towels and blankets.

Ammo the Dachshund // Lending a Helping Paw // My trip to the SPCA

7. Create Holiday Greeting Cards for my Etsy Shop and donate a percentage of the sales to animal shelters. My 2012 Holiday Greeting Cards donate 2% of all the proceeds to the Main Line Animal Rescue.

Ammo the Dachshund 2012 Holiday Greeting Card available in the Flying Hero Etsy Shop!

8. Promote responsible pet ownership and encourage my readers to spay/neuter their pets.

This particular goal may have slipped through the cracks just a bit, but consider this my public service announcement for 2013! Please spay and neuter your pets! I got the good old snip snip when I was 6 months old and I encourage you to do the same for your pets. We have so many animals that are in need of loving homes, and by having your pet neutered you are doing your part to cut down on the population of dogs in shelters. Check out these great reasons from the ASPCA as to why it’s important to spay and neuter.

9. Donate some of my outgrown sweaters and jackets that I no longer use to a rescue group that can use them for shelter dogs. I sent a donation of sweaters and jackets to the Dachshund Rescue of Bucks County & New Jersey to keep the rescue dachshunds nice and warm. I encourage you to do the same!

Ammo the Dachshund in his winter coat

10. Create a new page on the blog that highlights ways you can involved and help rescue animals, shelters, and good causes.

Just under the wire I’ve launched a new page on my website! You’ll find my giving back link at the bottom of the blog, which features tips on how you can get involved with helping the rescue animals and how I give back myself.

Giving Back // Ammo the Dachshund

11. Purchase some Rescue Chocolate as Christmas gifts that donates 100% of their profits to animal rescues.

Mom helped me purchase some rescue chocolate which I happily wrapped and gifted to my friends and family this Holiday season.

Rescue Chocolate // Ammo the Dachshund

*image via Rescue Chocolate

12. Try to promote more products on my Friday Fetch feature that donate a percentage of their sales to animal charities. Since I joined the 13 Project I am happy to say that just about every feature on Friday Fetch has helped out a rescue group/cause with the sale of their items.

Ammo the Dachshund // Friday Fetch // Scutte Pet T-shirts & Neckties

13. Encourage others to get involved with the 13 Project! I’ve been pinning and sharing the 13 Project with all my fans!

 

I hope to continue my efforts with this wonderful project, because there is always something that can be done to help the animals that we love.

And to all the animals out there looking for forever homes I send all my love. xoxo.

Ammo the Dachshund

Super Pony DVD Release!

The day has finally come! It’s time to announce the official release of the brand-new Super Pony DVD, staring the talented Minnow from Painting Pony…..and ME!

Ammo the Dachshund Super Hero and his Super Hero Pony

Thanks to my talented Uncle Taylor and Depthink Productions, we began filming for the DVD this past summer, and I’m so excited that it’s finally ready to share with everyone!

Super Pony DVD Release! via Ammo the Dachshund and Painting Pony

Check out the DVD Trailer:

ON THIS DVD

Trainer, Kyley DiLuigi, introduces us to Super Pony, the alter ego of the talented Chincoteague Pony, Minnow! Watch as he shows us some of his favorite trick performances, many of which have been performed at expos, fairs, schools, and even the Annual Chincoteague Pony Penning. Several performances also include Minnow’s lovable sidekick, Ammo the Dachshund, as well as other members of the Painting Pony crew. In addition to 5 featured videos, this DVD also contains 2 bonus videos: a visit to Iron Horse Farm, home to the Painting Ponies; and a talk given by Kyley about everyone’s favorite Chincoteague Pony, Misty of Chincoteague.

PAINTING PONY

In 2007, Painting Pony was founded when Kyley DiLuigi decided to bring her paints from art school out to the farm where she kept her 14-year-old pony, Minnow. That cold winter day Minnow became the World’s First Painting Chincoteague Pony as he created his very first masterpiece. As it became evident that Minnow had a gift that he truly loved, the paintings he created began to pile higher and higher. Feeling the need to share Minnow’s art with the world, Kyley started PaintingPony.com and the rest is history!

Super Pony DVD Release! via Ammo the Dachshund and Painting Pony

The Super Pony DVD is approx. 20 minutes and is available for purchase at $12 on PaintingPony.com

You’ll get to see performances by me and Minnow as well as me and my buddy Trooper. You even get to see me paint!

There is still plenty of time to order your copy for Holiday Gifts!
As a special gift to all my followers, enter code FREESHIP at checkout to receive free shipping on your entire order! (domestic orders only).

Snag your copy HEREAmmo the Dachshund