Steampunk Image Workshop

Love those vintage images and wish you could make things with them? Well you can, with image transfers. 

Join me for a hands on workshop where we'll make a set of 4 Italian tile coasters for you to take home, with vintage engravings of cephalopods. During this class you'll learn simple image transfer techniques that you can use to decorate just about anything. 

Cost of materials is $10 per person, payable in class. Similar coasters sell for $40 in stores. 
Sunday, Dec 4th, 1 pm at the San Diego Lapidary Society, 5654 Mildred St, San Diego (Morena Blvd area)

Please RSVP if you plan to attend so I can bring enough materials for everyone. If you have any questions, please email me at thievingmagpie (at) cox (dot) net

Absinthe Tasting Party - December 13th, 2008

By way of celebrating a successful year of steampunk events extraordinare (and the birthday of one of our members), Machina Fatalis hosted an absinthe tasting. Our evening began with the arrival of many finely attired guests. Much mingling and merriment followed. Once everyone was present, our sommelier for the evening, Carol, began our tasting. She made some fine dishes to accompany our absinthe: Gnocchi with fennel pollen, goat cheese and onion tartlets, 4 types of artisan chocolate, and other tasty nibbles. Yummy! Our tasting began with a Czech absinthe, Fruko Schulz. It was determined by all to be nigh undrinkable, with comments like "looks like mouthwash, but not as good", and "what is this stuff you're making us drink?". Only lighting it afire seemed to make it consumable. After each tasting, Tayopa read a history of the brand, with tasting notes. Quite enlightening and amusing. Next on our tasting menu was Lucid, the most popular absinthe in bars. Lucid was determined to be acceptable, nicely flavoured, but a bit strong on the anise flavor. A short time out to dine on the divine gnocchi and tartlets. Carol is a wonderful sommelier and a fantastic cook. Everyone raved about the food. Then on to the last 2 tastings. Next on our list was Le Tourment Vert, the house absinthe at The Edison. Though quite tasty, the truly artificial color could be improved upon. Lastly, one of our own, S. Sprocket graciously offered a bottle of St. George. An absinthe with a deep green, smoky color and complex taste. Divine! Determined to be our official absinthe from now on. Once the last of the absinthe was gone it was time for photos and fun, with many staying until all hours debating and conversing.
Jerry Abuan's beautiful photos of the evening, including the one shown here, can be seen at his photography site. Carol Wafer may be contacted for events at carolwafer@gmail.com.

Gathering at the Jolly Boy

In view of the enthusiasm shown by so many San Diegans for steam culture following the momentous gathering at ComicCon International this weekend past, we of Machina Fatalis are hosting a gathering for dinner and libations at the Jolly Boy Saloon in Old Town State Park this weekend coming. We will be converging on the restaurant at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, the Second of August. Information on the Jolly Boy may be found here. In addition to its nineteenth century ambiance, the Jolly Boy is a full service restaurant and is therefore all ages. It also has a full bar for those of age and is one of the few locations in San Diego where absinthe is served. Due to the recent surge in interest in our events, steampunk regalia is welcomed but not required.