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This blog is officially 10 years old. How?! My babies where 5 and 2 when I started this. That seems like a lifetime ago. I've been about ready to shut the whole thing down several times and in the most recent I even took down almost all my posts—then almost immediately regretted it. I guess I'm not done yet. I feel like a new chapter is coming on.My work has seen such a transformation over the years and I've learned so much professionally and personally. I'd never finish this post if I listed every lesson, every unexpected opportunity and every kind message from friends and total strangers…
Most Topular Stories
10 petals for 10 years!A Little Hut - Patricia Zapata27 May 2015 | 8:16 pm
flower nook: a coloring book is now available!A Little Hut - Patricia Zapata19 Jul 2015 | 7:15 pmLook what I have to show you today! I'm so happy that Flower Nook: A Coloring Book is ready to go into the world. I still marvel at the idea it all started with some simple sketches I posted on Instagram. Several people asked me if my illustrations were available for coloring and here I am.The process of creating the 50 illustrations in the book took about two months. My sketchbook was my main source of inspiration and if you've been following me there you'll see the connection right away. I also remembered childhood fantasies where I wondered what it would be like to be tiny (like…
two things from Ikea that I likenot martha17 Jun 2015 | 8:00 am#1: Sexy tumblers. There is a restaurant near us, Bar del Corso, that serves wine in low, wide tumblers. I've always found them very pleasing so I was happy to find similarly shaped glasses at Ikea recently and they've become my default vessel for sipping rose wine out of. Two things: at $3 for a set of six glasses they are ridiculously affordable, and if you buy them pay attention to how the packaging they come in unfolds into a single rectangle of cardboard, it's a remarkable feat of engineering. We've also been using these for cocktails but they aren't…
Recycling Old PaintingsJudy Wise30 Jul 2015 | 2:45 pmThis is my latest journal.I just finished sewing it yesterday and thought I'd share my process to help spark ideas for you in the studio.I know a lot of you, like me, generate works on paper that stack up in the studio. While the paintings may be beautiful, they aren't really enjoyed if they're languishing in a folder in the dark.The painting above, 12x12" on 140# watercolor paper, was in a folder with a stack of other non representational paintings that I did over a year ago.This one above was in the same folder. I used both of them on the cover and end sheets of my new…
Free Collage SheetsMaking Mini Scrapbooks Blog18 Jul 2015 | 11:06 amFree Collage Sheets
Tim Holtz
home improvements…31 Jul 2015 | 11:21 amwell hello there… it's been a while since i've blogged or even checked in on social media so i thought it was about time i got you caught up on the goings on around here. we've been keeping busy as usual, but in addition to the everyday meetings, deadlines, etc. we decided to add another task Continue Reading
sizzix storage solutions…21 Jul 2015 | 11:52 amas crafters, well all know the importance of organizing our endless stash of goods to get the most use of what always seems to be limited space. check out the video below to see for yourself, the versatility of my sizzix storage boxes – happy organizing…t!m *be sure to check your local stores for these supplies or you can click the Continue Reading
sneak peek: idea-ology halloween…17 Jul 2015 | 9:43 amit's halloween time in the world of idea-ology. this latest assortment of eclectic ephemera, frightful findings, and paranormal paperie combine a vintage mix of color, style, and pattern inspiring your creative spirits from "regions beyond". get ready for your artful ideas to materialize – this latest collection is shipping now! be sure to contact your local and online craft retailers as this seasonal Continue Reading
sneak peek: sizzix alterations christmas…15 Jul 2015 | 6:33 amlet the inspiration continue with a sneak peek of the holiday alterations from sizzix. this mix of festive fun includes a variety of steel and thin dies and embossing folders perfect for your seasonal celebrations. this release will be shipping in late august/early september to check your local and online craft stores. well it's time Continue Reading
sneak peek: sizzix alterations halloween…13 Jul 2015 | 7:41 amlet's start off the week with our first sneak peek of the new seasonal releases in my alterations line with sizzix. there is a great mix of steel dies, thin dies, and embossing folders to add spooktacular style to your creativity this halloween. this release will be shipping early next month to your local or online craft Continue Reading
Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers
Knee Deep in PLA: Our 2015 3D Fabrication Shootout Kicks Off31 Jul 2015 | 3:41 pmThe fourth annual Make: 3D printer test is officially underway. This weekend we'll test printers, CNC machines, and laser and vinyl cutters. Read more on MAKE The post Knee Deep in PLA: Our 2015 3D Fabrication Shootout Kicks Off appeared first on Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers.
Free Tickets to Maker Faire New York: Join the Street Team31 Jul 2015 | 12:15 pmJoin the Maker Faire Street Team and earn two free tickets to the 2015 World Maker Faire New York Read more on MAKE The post Free Tickets to Maker Faire New York: Join the Street Team appeared first on Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers.
Don't Be a Drone Jerk31 Jul 2015 | 11:06 amThe FAA is considering rules for drone flight, but we can do a lot as a community to ensure their proper use as well. Read more on MAKE The post Don't Be a Drone Jerk appeared first on Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers.
Props to the Maker of These Fifth Element Candle Holders31 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amThough The Fifth Element has quite a cult following, it has never become popular enough for companies to come out with easily-available memorabilia, making it a perfect candidate for a homemade prop project. Read more on MAKE The post Props to the Maker of These Fifth Element Candle Holders appeared first on Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers.
Install a Pressurized Water System on Your Car Bumper31 Jul 2015 | 6:30 amSelf-trained "hobbyist engineer" Ed Zarick added running water to the outside of his jeep with a reservoir he installed in his bumper. Read more on MAKE The post Install a Pressurized Water System on Your Car Bumper appeared first on Make: DIY Projects, How-Tos, Electronics, Crafts and Ideas for Makers.
not martha
links: the home9 Jul 2015 | 1:37 pmSoapbox, pretty and simple furniture. Via Swissmiss. Ceiling Hook — Shoebox Dwelling. A clean way to reposition that pendant light that hangs in the wrong spot, I need this for my own dining room. Easy Houseplants – Easy To Care For Indoor Plants, at House Beautiful. Via The Wirecutter. 28 DIYs You Need for Your First Apartment | Brit + Co. I love the suggestions for cheap, giant art treatments here. 14 Ways to Decorate With Air Plants (aka the New Succulent!) | Brit + Co. Having killed a few non-air plants I might be reconsidering my choice of interior plants. A Box-Like House is…
links: misc25 Jun 2015 | 5:54 amMy daughter and I almost escaped from a sealed cavern before running out of air – Boing Boing. I've done one of these real life room escape games and it was super fun. See also: Let Me Out of Here! Inside Seattle's Real-Life-Room-Escape Boom. I'm wondering if anyone knows where the title for "The Breakfast Club" film came from. | Ask MetaFilter. Seven Of The Most Beautiful Botanical Mazes On Earth at io9. Flexible, Fluid 'Revision' Bounces From Rom-Com To Sci-Fi : NPR. Huge congratulations to Andrea on the great reviews in her first book, I…
two things from Ikea that I like17 Jun 2015 | 8:00 am#1: Sexy tumblers. There is a restaurant near us, Bar del Corso, that serves wine in low, wide tumblers. I've always found them very pleasing so I was happy to find similarly shaped glasses at Ikea recently and they've become my default vessel for sipping rose wine out of. Two things: at $3 for a set of six glasses they are ridiculously affordable, and if you buy them pay attention to how the packaging they come in unfolds into a single rectangle of cardboard, it's a remarkable feat of engineering. We've also been using these for cocktails but they aren't…
links: technology2 Jun 2015 | 1:30 pmWhat in the Hell Is a Tefifon? – The Stranger. If you're into music technology this is pretty darn cool. Shades Review | Touch Arcade. A Tetris-like game for the iPhone, with a free trial version of the game in case you'd like to test it out. GLaDOS and The Sniper: A Voice Acting Love Story | Motherboard. Via Gamefilter. What Happens When There Are No Boys in the Room: A Report from Robyn's Tekla Conference | The Pitch | Pitchfork. Via the Two Bossy Dames newsletter. Get ready to blindfold your friends in this neat local multiplayer game – Boing Boing. I'm not…
links: food13 May 2015 | 4:03 pmKFC Plans to Roll Out Edible Coffee Cups in the U.K. | TIME. Eee! Via The Morning News. The Makings of Beecher's Amazing Flagship Cheese | Serious Eats. The Food Lab: For the Best Sichuan Dry-Fried Green Beans, Ditch the Wok and Turn on the Broiler | Serious Eats. Sprinkle Bakes: Rainbow Spiral Cookies. How to Make Uovo in Raviolo: Showstopping Runny Egg Yolk Ravioli | Serious Eats. The Session Beer Project™: SESSION BEER DAY 2015. I am all for this proliferation of lower alcohol beers, keep bringing it on. magic chocolat flower dessert – YouTube. It's a chocolate flower!
Wee Wonderfuls
fuzzy puffy blanket9 Jul 2015 | 8:05 amIt seemed like a silly thing to do, make another blanket/duvet/quilt item in the middle of Summer, but this is the Summer to do it! This thing has seen plenty of use already. I had 2 half yards of cute new Emily Isabella for Birch Organic fabric that had just arrived in the mail and I thought if only I could make something fast and not even put this in my stash. I cut it into 9"x9" squares and cut out more squares of coordinating fabric and pieced it together on Phoebe's new HK sewing machine sitting on my dining room table. I wanted it to be puffy so instead of using batting I…
Phoebe's book bag17 Jun 2015 | 3:13 pmPhoebe got a sewing machine for her 8th birthday last week. She's been sewing lots of practice swatches and made a cute little quilt for her doll. Today we made a book bag. We're headed over to the library to get her first library card so she decided she needed a pocket to hold her library card and that it should be a sun. Zippers as straps was a co-decision, mostly hers because she dug them out. The fabric choice though was all me. She is so impatient. She grabs the first thing she touches, yep, that's it. I had to steer her gently.
saskatoon berries15 Jun 2015 | 12:29 pmhello, old, tired, misused, neglected blog. I need to spiffy you up this summer finally. I think I say that every time I open you up. I will go ask tim right now if we're switching you over to wordpress. don't tell your typepad overlords. we have had a super rainy late spring so far. the serviceberries are bursting off the tree so I think it's time to pick them. I've made a pie and tarts in the past with them. this year I was thinking jam. I've never made it though. I'm sure I'll only get one jar worth. then I just boil that jar in hot water? sounds easy…
can't force it21 Apr 2015 | 10:56 amThe only creative, non-PTA, thing I've done in the past month was to work on a new design for Land of Nod. They wanted a new design, in a week, to match an inspiration board they'd put together. Normally I don't mind a theme or a general jumping off point but this one I could not make work for anything. I always try to make it work Tim Gunn style but this time I just threw in the towel and it felt pretty dang good. If I don't feel excited about a doll design how can I want to put it in a bunch of stores and ask other people to buy it. It's surprising to realize how…
Whimsy Vintage20 Apr 2015 | 7:05 amWhen people come to Wee Wonderfuls looking for already made toys I send them along to the makers who have purchased a cottage industry license from us. Like these cuties from Whimsy Vintage from the Kit, Chloe and Louise pattern. Doll for sale here. a custom doll from Kit, Chloe and Louise pattern, for sale here from the Patchwork Penny pattern in my book, Wee Wonderfuls 24 dolls to Sew and Love. Doll for sale here. This cutie for sale here. I love her blouse and skirt. So sweet.
A Little Hut - Patricia Zapata
color and frame - part 222 Jul 2015 | 6:42 amI posted this photo on Instagram yesterday and I thought it would be a good idea to answer some questions about using my coloring book.First of all my favorite tools for coloring:- Right now I'm into markers. I got some Prismacolor Double-Ended Art Markers for my birthday and I'm really hooked. One end has a flexible brush tip which is wonderful to give strokes a more organic look. The other side is a fine tip which is great for more detailed work.- I've always been partial to Prismacolor colored pencils. Thery're just the best.- Pastel pencils - My dad had a set when I was little and I…
color and frame20 Jul 2015 | 8:06 pmHere is a mock-up, inspired by vintage botanical illustrations, of how you can display some of the images in Flower Nook: A Coloring Book. I kept the color to a bare minimum just to see what a limited color palette would look like. Full colored versions of these would really pop against the white background. Why not display your handy work?I'm still pinching myself because I can't believe this project is finally complete. Thank you so much for all your kind messages on Facebook and Instagram and for all your orders. I've been smiling all day long. Now onto the next big thing. I'm…
flower nook: a coloring book is now available!19 Jul 2015 | 7:15 pmLook what I have to show you today! I'm so happy that Flower Nook: A Coloring Book is ready to go into the world. I still marvel at the idea it all started with some simple sketches I posted on Instagram. Several people asked me if my illustrations were available for coloring and here I am.The process of creating the 50 illustrations in the book took about two months. My sketchbook was my main source of inspiration and if you've been following me there you'll see the connection right away. I also remembered childhood fantasies where I wondered what it would be like to be tiny (like…
cover to cover19 Jun 2015 | 2:07 amI finished this sketchbook yesterday after working on it for a little over a month. It has been an unexpected fun routine to work on these small pieces in spurts of a few minutes here and there. Each illustration took me about 15-30 minutes to complete. As many of you know, the paper in Moleskine sketchbooks is fairly thin so the ink did bleed through the pages. I skipped a spread in between each illustration to keep from ruining my previous work.I was inspired by many of the flowers that I saw popping up this spring. For the most part I tried to interpret them in my own way without being…
10 petals for 10 years!27 May 2015 | 8:16 pmThis blog is officially 10 years old. How?! My babies where 5 and 2 when I started this. That seems like a lifetime ago. I've been about ready to shut the whole thing down several times and in the most recent I even took down almost all my posts—then almost immediately regretted it. I guess I'm not done yet. I feel like a new chapter is coming on.My work has seen such a transformation over the years and I've learned so much professionally and personally. I'd never finish this post if I listed every lesson, every unexpected opportunity and every kind message from friends and total strangers…
Make and Takes
Make Your Own Bug Catcher31 Jul 2015 | 1:15 amHi guys, I'm Stephanie from Somewhat Simple, and I'm excited to be here sharing an easy Bug Catcher for the Make and Takes Get Out and Play summer series. Supplies for making a DIY Bug Catcher: hammer nails rope screen netting (found in the window screen aisle) 3 rectangle stair moldings hot glue gun scissors sticky-back Velcro ribbon or rick rack *Variation: If you don't have a lot of Velcro, or you run out on your 3rd one like I did, a staple gun also works great- just be sure to leave an opening to let the bugs in and out. DIRECTIONS: 1. Add Velcro to the entire outside rims…
How to Make GIANT Bubbles30 Jul 2015 | 1:29 amHello Make and Take friends! I'm Mary Catherine of Fun-A-Day, where I share fun and meaningful early learning activities. I'm excited to be a part of the Get Out and Play summer series! Today, I'm sharing a simple and fun activity my preschool students enjoyed during summer camp. We spent most of the camp days outside, immersed in crazy painting activities, cool science experiments, and all kinds of summer fun. Our giant bubbles were definitely one of the highlights of the camp! Materials for making giant bubbles: Hard-shell kiddie pool Dish soap (we used blue Dawn) Hula…
Make a Rainbow Ribbon Curtain29 Jul 2015 | 12:31 amHello, I am Shannon at Find Joy in the Journey! I have been blogging since 2005 and I love to write about my family, everyday life, dating my husband, projects and parties, Project Life, being a mom, faith, setting and working towards goals, and finding joy in the journey. I hope you will come visit me! I'm so excited to be here for Make and Takes summer series Get Out and Play! I believe that quite often it is the simplest things that can add a touch of magic to our days. For me, one of those simple things is . . . . color. I love and live for colors in bright happy shades! We…
Woodland Animals Tic Tac Toe Game28 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amHi Make and Takes Readers! My name is Bev and I blog over at Flamingo Toes. Happy to be sharing a fun project for the Get Out and Play summer series. I am all about sweet woodland animals right now! They are just too cute. Today I have a fun Woodland Animals Tic Tac Toe game that is super easy to play outside or inside. And it's great for any age! Littles will love it and I've had a blast playing with my daughter who's in college – so anyone will love it! :) The tic tac toe game is a fun combo of painting and embroidery and just simple crafting! If you don't want…
Make an Ancient Toy Thaumatrope27 Jul 2015 | 1:22 amNo matter how much fun stuff you have planned for your kids this summer, you will still hear: "I am bored" more times that you would like to. So today I will show you our latest activity that has been "killing" boredom at our house. It's thaumatrope. Have you ever heard about it? It's a toy that was popular in the 19th century. A disk with a picture on each side is attached to two pieces of string. In our case – wooden skewer. To make your own thaumatrope you will need: White paper Crayons or markers Skewers glue tape scissors 1. Using a glass (or…
angry chicken
maggie rabbit and summer reading26 Jul 2015 | 5:52 pmI had a lot of time with my youngest child these last four weeks while the older girls were dancing all day. It was so nice and leisurely—we made lots of lemonade, sewed, went to the zoo, baked cookies, and had several tea parties. Last night, on the last day we had together alone, she asked to sew this adorable Miss Maggie Rabbit kit, by the amazing talented Alicia Paulson. She cut out all the pieces, sewed a whole lot of it herself, and learned all about Liberty cottons and why they are so treasured. Lydia also knits, so she is going to try her hand at the capelet. All the wooden doll…
sewing ballet leotards19 Jul 2015 | 9:47 amI just finished this ballet leotard and matching skirt for Sadie and I am so happy with how it turned out. The leotard is fully lined in front and the lace is stretch, which I found at the Mill End Store. The skirt is not hemmed (it might get slightly fuzzy, but it won't run) and has a narrow elastic on the waistband. Looking at this now, after she danced in this all day, I think I will take the sleeves up just a little so there isn't extra she has to push up. The stretch lace is smooth and slippery, which is nice because there was some concern about it being itchy. I serged all this,…
not a fish taco, but worth posting13 Jul 2015 | 9:06 pmThis not a fish taco but it worth posting about because it was from Koi Fusion, which serves Koren tacos and it was from a location they have at the mall, which is a big deal. The food court at the the mall (Washington Square) has only typical foodcourt-mall-food, but they now have a Koi Fusion, which is so great. This one I ordered with kimchi. Delicious. Unrelated: 2 podcasts I have enjoyed recently: A Conversation with Pema Chödrön and k.d. lang . You need to give them your e-mail (where is says register) to listen to this, and you don't get to hear k.d. lang sing, but it's…
painted rocks and some links about art forgery5 Jul 2015 | 8:33 amLydia and I have been having a lot of fun doing crafts and going to field trips while her big sisters are dancing all day. Just one kid! I love being able to go at her speed with no interruptions. We have painted rocks many times before, but were inspired to do so again after seeing this wonderful tutorial over on the Postman's Knock. Related in that it's about art: I was listening to this interview on NPR with author Noah Charney about art forgery and was so fascinated. I have always been interested in forgery and crime in the art world. I really want to buy this book. I then clicked…
homemade scratch board29 Jun 2015 | 11:20 amI mentioned a bit back we had a lot of fun making our own scratch board using this tutorial by Sea Lemon. We painted on bristol, with tempera. The black seemed to work better than other colors for scratching through. Overall it was a big success. We are continuing to love Art Assignment, and were very interested in The Case For Andy Warhol, who the girls' have studied quite a bit. They have always been drawn to his soup cans and we always have lively discussions about what art is when talking about Andy. We like to just call him Andy. Portlanders! This video, Yesterday's Tomorrow—A…
Misty Mawn
Migrating…11 Jul 2015 | 12:32 pmNew Blog Post over here.
5 Jan 2015 | 8:47 am5 Jan 2015 | 8:47 amThank you to everyone that left comments on my last post. The names randomly chosen for a free spot in my upcoming workshop are: Anita Tillman - Suzanne Derickson - Diane Ackers (I added an extra for good luck ;) Thank you to everyone that has signed up for the workshop. I am really looking forward to sharing art time with you. For everyone that has signed up, I am currently working on the classroom site and will send out the workshop links soon. Today is the last day for the early registration price. The workshop…
31 Dec 2014 | 8:38 pm31 Dec 2014 | 8:38 pmRegistration is now open ~ here ~ Thank you for your comments and for sharing about my upcoming workshop. I will announce the names drawn on Monday, January 5th. You still have time to leave a comment and enter.
23 Dec 2014 | 8:56 am23 Dec 2014 | 8:56 amA Brand NEW Online Workshop I will be giving away two spots in this course. Share about my new online workshop on any social media site, then leave a comment on this post letting me know you did and you will be entered into the drawing. I will announce the names drawn on January 5th, 2015. more info here above are just a few new pieces i've been working on. If you are looking for prints... I am so pleased with the quality of the prints from inprnt. I will be posting more and more prints as time goes by. …
30 Nov 2014 | 7:15 pm30 Nov 2014 | 7:15 pmI am so thrilled... I finally have a website! I have tried a few times in the past to create a website of my very own, but I have multiple excuses for why it never happened, this time I was determined. I will be blogging there from now on, but still stopping by here now and again, too. My latest post about my trip to California can be found there.
still talking creative sketchbooking class30 Jul 2015 | 6:57 pmEventually I'll stop talking all Creative Sketchbooking class here, there, and everywhere...eventually ;). But not today! Today I have more to say. So, are you in the class with us? If yes, yay, fun, right?!? If no, what?!? ...I kid, I kid...it's ok, it's not for everyone, I know, you'll just have to bear with our excitement while we go on about it a little more. ;) If you are in the class, I wanted to make sure you know you can watch it by logging in via any internet browser on any computer or device, you don't have to download the app. I mention it because I know one…
so fun!29 Jul 2015 | 3:16 pmcreative sketchbooking class from Pamela Garrison on Vimeo. You all are the best! I so appreciate all the enthusiasm and participation in my first ever online class, Creative Sketchbooking! I'm trying hard to stay caught up here, in the classroom gallery, on my facebook page and on instagram. Everyone has their own favorite sharing platform, and I'm trying hard to not miss anyone. If you share what you make in class on a blog I hope you'll leave a comment so we can visit! People are just beginning to upload some work (play) to the online class gallery and with the…
creative sketchbooking class!!!28 Jul 2015 | 1:34 pmHey there!!! The class is live!!!! You can see it here! Wow, I actually have a class online, that's been a loooooong time coming. I really appreciate all those that have patiently waited!!! I know I've been painfully slow with the creation and release of the content in my brain into an online course format. There's more to come for sure, now that things are moving down the pipeline! FYI, I misunderstood yesterday, and said that a credit card isn't needed to have the membership with free trial period. In actuality, to see the class you have to sign up for a membership…
tomorrow's the day!!!27 Jul 2015 | 8:29 pmWow. I can't believe it's finally here! It seems like it's been forever in the works...but my Creative Sketchbooking class over on Creativebug launches tomorrow (mid morning/afternoon PST)!!!!! I don't have a direct link for class to share until it's released, but in the meantime, if you aren't already a Creativebug member, you can sign up for a free two week trial. No credit card needed, it's truly a free trial- (ED: I'm hearing feedback that a credit card IS required. I'm on it and trying to find out if I misunderstood, or if I gave you wrong link etc. I…
summer greetings!22 Jul 2015 | 4:22 pmHi there! How's summer going for you? (If it is summer in your part of the world, that is.) Time is passing as quickly as ever here, I've still got my head down working hard on both my upcoming Creative Bug class (releases next week!!!-will post the promo video as soon as I have it!), my own self-hosted e-course, a few work assignments, quilt gifts for friends and and and...you know me, never at a loss for items on the creative pursuits list! I'm happy to be in a spot where I'm very connected to my creative output, but I'm a bit discouraged that I'm finding it so difficult to make time to…
The Etsy Blog
Featured Shop: Lenny Fashion31 Jul 2015 | 2:51 amMy name is Lenny Uzan, and I'm a fashion designer based in Israel. I specialize in evening wear and wedding dresses, and my brand is called Lenny Fashion. I started Lenny Fashion four years ago, after finishing my degree at Shenkar College. At first, I was based in Tel Aviv; then after two years, I decided to move to a small kibbutz (a community village in Israel traditionally based on agriculture) called Usha. For me, the kibbutz is an escape to a magical, authentic and peaceful place — a place where I want to grow and develop my brand, surrounded by nature. My collections always…
Featured Shop: Marcus Poston29 Jul 2015 | 2:42 amHello, I'm Marcus Poston and I make neon signs, random curiosities, and wildly artistic keepsakes here in New York City. After moving to NYC in 2004, I spent most of my time waiting tables and slinging drinks. I was working all the time, but only making enough money to afford the bare minimum before needing to work more. Somewhere in that miserable loop, I was finally inspired to make something with my hands: a gift that I otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford for a beautiful girl. I've always been lucky enough to find myself in the company of artists and makers, and…
Crafting an Identity Through Costumes28 Jul 2015 | 10:54 amIn July, more than 130,000 people crowded the halls of San Diego's Convention Center for what's become one of the entertainment world's most talked-about events: Comic Con. While the star-studded panels and world-premiere trailers are undeniable draws, the reason people really show up in droves year after year is to see and be seen…in their costumes. And those costumes — the majority of which are handmade — are no joke. They range from simple to elaborate, obvious to esoteric, classic to contemporary. This year it wasn't uncommon to see a shorn Imperator Furiosa (Charlize…
Featured Shop: Elisabeth Space Jewelry27 Jul 2015 | 5:57 amHello! I'm Elisabeth, of Elisabeth Space Jewelry. I make jewelry on a full-time basis from my home studio in Omaha, Nebraska, with my furry, 10-lb. assistant named EmmeLou by my side. I pride myself on using high-quality materials and skilled techniques, and offering exceptional customer service to my clients. Never content to rest on my laurels, I add new designs to my shop regularly. For as long as I can remember, I've loved rocks. When I was a child, staring at the fossils in a boulder at the zoo was just as cool as seeing the elephants and the gorillas. I also remember sneaking…
Featured Shop: Albertina Boutique24 Jul 2015 | 2:37 amHey! My name is Dikla Levi Harel, and I'm the proud owner of Albertina Boutique, where I design leather accessories. I live and work in a garden-view studio apartment in Tel Aviv with my husband Shimmi, our 18-month-old boy Omri, and our two cats. I studied graphic design at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design. After graduation, I worked at an advertising firm for two years, but I missed the hands-on creative process and experimenting with materials. Looking for a way to bring this creativity back into my life, I enrolled in a handbag design course at a small craft school in Tel Aviv. I…
The Soap Bar
Winners of "Photo Skillz Part One"18 Jul 2015 | 9:48 amSo you shook it up and I am beaming like a mama bear.I asked you to shut off your flash, move around your soap and step out of your box and you all trusted that it could work and it did! Every picture was interesting and creative and there's no way I could choose the best.I will choose three, as I promised, but there were dozens that I wanted in the trio today. These are in no particular order....Amanda WolfAmanda Wolf, you stepped right off that box and added an interesting and relevant background image for your soap and it works! In fact, the movement of the water makes in…
What's in YOUR red colorant?6 Jul 2015 | 11:50 amI know this is my soap blog and I try not to include too much stuff about Mad Oils, my wholesale supply company, but I thought this was just too important not to post here:Mad Oils carries only vegan ingredients. We believe in using and selling only cruelty free products. We are an animal loving team here with a vast array of rescued pets between us.Carmine is an ingredient very often used in red and pink micas. You may not be aware of what it is or where it comes from, but it might be in the micas and other colorants you use in your products. photo courtesy of…
Shake It Up With Photos Skillz, Part One4 Jul 2015 | 11:29 amSome of you want to sell your soap but are having a hard time doing that because getting a good picture of them isn't easy. Photographs of your product are more important than you think. Images are what speaks to people more and more these days, because isn't the internet all imagery?We all have a comfort zone: Things we do that make us feel secure in our abilities. But in my opinion, that comfort zone needs a little shaking up. That's what I'm here to do. We all need to open ourselves to see new perspectives. Some of us make soap for fun, or for the sake…
Summer Loving. The Memories Don't Die.28 Jun 2015 | 7:58 amThere were very few entries this month, but they were all wonderful and I thank you for participating.As with our latest challenges, I have asked for an explanation along with the soap you made, so that we, as artists, draw out our thoughts as we create and really get in touch with your art and your inner artist. It also makes the soap more interesting to look at as a viewers standpoint because the history adds depth and understanding.When I say dig deep, some of you clearly do and I am honored to have the remains of the upheaval shared with me.I loved EVERY submission. This was…
Summer Loving...It Happened So Fast31 May 2015 | 11:05 amDo you remember when you were a kid, school had ended and summer stretched out in front of you filled with endless possibilities? How you were full of optimism and excitement and it felt like you had all the time in the world to make anything you could imagine happen?Today's soap challenge is to design a soap that represents your childhood summers. Whatever the wonders of summer were for you, whether they involved new love, hours on the beach or the simple joy of opening a fire hydrant on a hot summer day in the city, represent them in your soap.When posting your Challenge photo…
Making Mini Scrapbooks Blog
Free Collage Sheets18 Jul 2015 | 11:06 amFree Collage Sheets
Explosion Scrapbook15 Jul 2015 | 9:31 amTutorial to make an explosion scrapbook
Hidden Photo Pocket14 Jul 2015 | 12:51 pmA tutorial to make a hidden photo pocket
Summer Scrapbooking Ideas8 Jul 2015 | 9:22 amSummer Scrapbooking Ideas
Scrapbook Kits7 Jul 2015 | 4:47 pmA List of Great Scrapbook Kits
Geek Crafts
Books books books Etsy Treasury31 Jul 2015 | 9:00 amAnyone who knows me will know that I am a huge bibliophile. And what better way to celebrate my love of books than decorating my house with book crafts?! There are lots of amazing book-related crafts available on etsy, and these are just some of my favourites.
Weeping Angel DIY – Pin of the Week29 Jul 2015 | 9:00 amCheck out this amazing weeping angel made out of a barbie! Isn't it awesomely creepy? I definitely have to make one, if I can get my hands on a barbie… Wich-Crafting has a great tutorial for how to make one here. It's one of the best weeping angels I've ever seen! You could make one in attack mode as well! Follow my geek crafts board on Pinterest here.
Manage Your Mischief With This Embroidery Tutorial27 Jul 2015 | 1:36 pmIf you love Harry Potter, you'll love this free embroidery pattern and tutorial from Beverly at Flamingo Toes! You can solemnly (or otherwise) be up to no good and make your own 8″ hoop art piece. Beverly gives step-by-step instructions and photos, and she even talks you through distressing the final piece so it looks aged, just like that Marauder's Map! Do you need a little help learning the Backstitch for this fun pattern? Check out my friend, Kristen, at Hey Paul Studios and her awesome video! Plus, she's got great tips on picking fabrics, thread, and even hoops.
DIY Geek Wedding: Comic Book Bouquet26 Jul 2015 | 11:36 amTalk about sisterly love! For her sister's wedding recently, Amber Lackey of Sissy La-La created unique bouquets using comic book pages. She cut each comic book page down to two 4×4″ squares and folded them into petals, using five squares to make each flower. The bride's bouquet featured more than 300 petals and measured about 12-1/2″ across. It took about 150 pages and 14 hours to make. She went on to make two more bouquets. Amber also created a garter using Marvel fabric: Did you have any geek elements in your wedding, or have you seen some fun references in…
Sewn Comic Book Wallet25 Jul 2015 | 7:05 pmDuctTuff is an Etsy store in Portland, OR that specializes in sewn wallets. One example is this Batman, Batwoman and Robin wallet, available for $14. It's a handmade item, made of a comic book, sandwiched between layers of an adhesive vinyl laminate. This makes for a super durable and long lasting wallet that is very water resistant. Sewing it combined the quality and strength of a traditional wallet with the novelty of comics. It also features: four card slots that can expand to accommodate more than one card each; a 3" x 8.25" cash pocket; comic images in cash pocket; and is about…
house on hill road
Canyon Path Quilt17 Jul 2015 | 4:18 amMy final donation quilt for our school and church carnival is this Canyon Path quilt done up in some gorgeous Cotton + Steel. The pattern is by Alexia Abegg and is available on the Cotton + Steel website. I bought the kit for this quilt on Craftsy a few months back. It has enough extra fabric included to piece a backing, or if you are ambitious, you could make a few extra blocks! I chose to keep the quilt at nine blocks as written. The cutting and piecing is very straightforward if you are comfortable with half square triangles. The only change I made was to cut the squares for the half…
Finished: Four Winds Quilt14 Jul 2015 | 8:40 amI finally got around to basting my Four Winds quilt top on Friday afternoon. Our school and church carnival is coming up this weekend and I had always intended to donate this one to the quilt booth for that event. Nothing like a deadline to get me moving! Originally, I thought that I wanted to free motion quilt this one, but in my heart, I knew that straight lines in the direction of the geese was what this quilt wanted. It took a long time - about 6 hours total - but it was very easy, straightforward sewing. I started by stitching in the ditch through the middle seams on the top. After that,…
My Dottie Angel Frock9 Jul 2015 | 10:40 amI've had my eyes on this dress by Tif, aka Dottie Angel, ever since she announced that it would be available as a pattern. It's just so dang cute! And truly, everything that lady puts her hands to is adorable, but this is the one thing I just had to make. I am so glad I did because the dress is adorable and flattering and super easy to wear! Well done, Tif! Once the release date was announced, I started popping by my JoAnn's every few days to see if they had added the new patterns to those huge metal drawers. On the fourth try, it was there - Simplicity 1080! I decided to use a…
A Friday Finish3 Jul 2015 | 10:06 amIn an effort to get something finished this week, I sat down at the machine and sewed the binding to this quilt. The pattern is Fox Tails by Tula Pink and I bought it as a kit last year on Craftsy. I am fairly certain that I never would have chosen to make this if the kit hadn't been on sale, but I am glad I bought it because it was a fun one to sew up. I left the quilting to a local long-armer - I told him to just do his thing. The soft swirls that he quilted compliment the harder lines of the diamonds in just the right way. I think it was a good call to have this one done as it would…
Gingham + Four-Patch26 Jun 2015 | 3:59 amThe girls left for camp almost three weeks ago and come home on Saturday. Naturally, I've spent most of the week focused on completing my long list of things that I thought I would accomplish while they were gone. I suppose I will always be a last-minute person at times. At top on my list was making new quilts for the two twin beds in Kate's room. I started cutting and sewing on Tuesday. The first top was finished Wednesday and the second one yesterday. I have batting and there is fabric for backing, but that still needs to be pieced. The design is simple - 8" finished…
The Etsy Blog
Featured Shop: Lenny Fashion31 Jul 2015 | 2:51 amMy name is Lenny Uzan, and I'm a fashion designer based in Israel. I specialize in evening wear and wedding dresses, and my brand is called Lenny Fashion. I started Lenny Fashion four years ago, after finishing my degree at Shenkar College. At first, I was based in Tel Aviv; then after two years, I decided to move to a small kibbutz (a community village in Israel traditionally based on agriculture) called Usha. For me, the kibbutz is an escape to a magical, authentic and peaceful place — a place where I want to grow and develop my brand, surrounded by nature. My collections always…
Featured Shop: Marcus Poston29 Jul 2015 | 2:42 amHello, I'm Marcus Poston and I make neon signs, random curiosities, and wildly artistic keepsakes here in New York City. After moving to NYC in 2004, I spent most of my time waiting tables and slinging drinks. I was working all the time, but only making enough money to afford the bare minimum before needing to work more. Somewhere in that miserable loop, I was finally inspired to make something with my hands: a gift that I otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford for a beautiful girl. I've always been lucky enough to find myself in the company of artists and makers, and…
Crafting an Identity Through Costumes28 Jul 2015 | 10:54 amIn July, more than 130,000 people crowded the halls of San Diego's Convention Center for what's become one of the entertainment world's most talked-about events: Comic Con. While the star-studded panels and world-premiere trailers are undeniable draws, the reason people really show up in droves year after year is to see and be seen…in their costumes. And those costumes — the majority of which are handmade — are no joke. They range from simple to elaborate, obvious to esoteric, classic to contemporary. This year it wasn't uncommon to see a shorn Imperator Furiosa (Charlize…
Featured Shop: Elisabeth Space Jewelry27 Jul 2015 | 5:57 amHello! I'm Elisabeth, of Elisabeth Space Jewelry. I make jewelry on a full-time basis from my home studio in Omaha, Nebraska, with my furry, 10-lb. assistant named EmmeLou by my side. I pride myself on using high-quality materials and skilled techniques, and offering exceptional customer service to my clients. Never content to rest on my laurels, I add new designs to my shop regularly. For as long as I can remember, I've loved rocks. When I was a child, staring at the fossils in a boulder at the zoo was just as cool as seeing the elephants and the gorillas. I also remember sneaking…
Featured Shop: Albertina Boutique24 Jul 2015 | 2:37 amHey! My name is Dikla Levi Harel, and I'm the proud owner of Albertina Boutique, where I design leather accessories. I live and work in a garden-view studio apartment in Tel Aviv with my husband Shimmi, our 18-month-old boy Omri, and our two cats. I studied graphic design at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design. After graduation, I worked at an advertising firm for two years, but I missed the hands-on creative process and experimenting with materials. Looking for a way to bring this creativity back into my life, I enrolled in a handbag design course at a small craft school in Tel Aviv. I…
Design Mom
A Few Things31 Jul 2015 | 8:25 amBy Gabrielle. Photo by Ben Blair. Hello, Friends! How are you? Has it been a good week? We have lots of fun stuff going on. Our 4 oldest kids took sailing classes this week run by the local parks & rec, and Ben Blair has his first sailing lesson this afternoon. We've never tried sailing before! But every time we're near the Bay (which is practically daily), we have this overwhelming urge to be on the water more. We're hoping that learning how to sail will fix that. Ralph's class has the most adventurous program. Yesterday morning they sailed from Oakland to…
A Budgeting Game for Teens That I Totally Made Up (And Maybe Your Kids Will Like It Too).30 Jul 2015 | 10:00 amPhoto and text by Gabrielle. Over the next 8 weeks, I'm working with ScholarShare, California's 529 savings plan, on a series of posts about family finances. I'll be covering topics like creating a monthly budget, financial plans, saving for college, and teaching kids about finances. These topics are all super important, and depending on how a family approaches them, they can add or subtract a lot of stress from daily life. But I know talking about finances can trigger worry or shame for lots of us, so I promise to keep things shame-free and totally approachable.
Growing A Family: Hyperemesis Gravidarum30 Jul 2015 | 5:32 amBy Gabrielle. I think most people are a little scared of morning sickness. It can leave us feeling like we've just run two marathons in a row, when all we've really accomplished is a feeble walk from our bed to the couch. It can surprise us during an important meeting with the realization "Huh. The smell of paper makes me vomit." And then one day, it packs up and leaves and we forget all about the ghastly beast that interrupted our well-being for a few weeks. But there is morning sickness, and there is MORNING SICKNESS. The all-caps version sticks around all day and all night, despite…
Ask Design Mom: Two Introverts Raising an Extrovert29 Jul 2015 | 7:45 amImages and text by Gabrielle. Well, it's been almost a year since I posted an Ask Design Mom question, but when I shared my 9 year blog anniversary post, I had a whole bunch of requests to post them more often. So here we go! I'll do my best to make this a regular series again — and in the meantime, you can find the Ask Design Mom archives here. Now, on to the question! Question: Hi Gabrielle. You wrote a post a while ago about two extroverts raising an introvert. My family is the opposite. My husband and I are introverts and our only child is an extrovert (we think!). She is…
Healthy Snack Ideas: Flavor Pairings28 Jul 2015 | 9:10 amPhotos and text by Gabrielle. Sponsored by Blue Diamond. I can't pretend we're healthy eaters every single day, but I do try hard to keep healthy snacks around the house, so that when the kids reach for something, the options are weighted heavily toward real food and away from junk food. The tricky thing is, we tend to find ourselves in snack-time ruts — the food that was once a perfect mid-day treat becomes boring because we've eaten it too many times. So I thought it would be fun to work with the kids and use a "pairings" theme to come up with some snack…
July, in the kitchen30 Jul 2015 | 5:43 amAh, July in the kitchen. When there is so much to be done and so much garden goodness to be enjoying, and yet....it's just too hot to be in here! Until my dreams of a summer kitchen come true (it...
July Wool29 Jul 2015 | 5:23 amBefore dashing out the door for Newport, I stuffed these two skeins of sunshine in my bag, hoping I'd sort out what to do with them on the way down there. I didn't even have time to use my swift...
at the Newport Folk Festival28 Jul 2015 | 5:27 amIf I had a bucket list, the Newport Folk Festival surely would have been on it. I've long wanted to attend, and for years have been listening to the live NPR broadcasts when the festival happens. That it worked out...
Quince and Co. {a soulemama sponsor}26 Jul 2015 | 6:01 amGreetings from Quince & Co.! Quince & Co. was launched in 2010 by Pam Allen in partnership with a historic mill in Maine. Pam has worked in the handknitting industry as a freelance knitwear designer, editor of Interweave Knits, and...
Imagine Childhood {a soulemama sponsor}25 Jul 2015 | 5:46 amGreetings from Imagine Childhood! Imagine Childhood is a family owned and operated company specializing in earth-friendly goods, craft and activity tutorials and educational supplies that support and nurture the magic of childhood. Our carefully curated collection focuses on products that...
Yarn Harlot
With Gratitude25 Jul 2015 | 4:15 pmEvery year when we're done packing, and everything is on the trucks, and there's nothing to do but have dinner, and a big sleep, and check my bike for a the hundredth time, I always get a little sappy. I guess I'm tired, and a little worried about tomorrow (if by "worried" you understand I mean "terrified") and I start thinking about everything that I'm about to do, and freaking out. This year, when that happens, I've been remembering something someone on the Steering Committee said to me a few days ago when we were all trying to get…
Test24 Jul 2015 | 7:08 pmTrying to blog from my phone. See sweet baby Frankie feet?
Ready, steady.24 Jul 2015 | 1:27 pmYou know what? I think I have a grip on this. I hate to say it, in case I remember something huge I've forgotten to do, but after a few days of dashing around, I think I'm almost ready – or at least packed, if that's the same thing. I don't know if I'll ever really be ready for Sunday. I get this huge nervous tummy thing going on every time I think about pushing off on my bike. You'd think that I'd be less nervous, what with having done it before and lived to tell the tale, but the experience almost makes it worse. I know how hard…
What was that noise?23 Jul 2015 | 3:46 pmYesterday went by in a big whoosh. I got up and poured myself a cup of coffee, and sat there drinking it while I pulled together all my to-do lists into one big master list. Camping stuff to pull together, get batteries for the flashlight, pick-up my bike, find an air mattress, hit the drugstore, get some groceries – finish a pair of socks… by 9:30 I was on a streetcar heading across the city, and I got home just in time to say yes to sailing with Joe. (I've missed a lot of sailing lately – and Joe loves it when I'm on the boat, so off I went.) It was a real rush…
Resting with (Big) Plans21 Jul 2015 | 4:59 pmThanks so much for the well wishes guys, and for the understanding about the challenging weekend. Things are looking up today. I feel cheerful, and sort of confident – at least when I remember that being a few days from departure always makes me sort of crampy. This morning I started packing my camping gear, and making a list of the bits and pieces that i need still, and I dropped my bike off for one more little tune-up to make sure it gets me to Montréal. The last thing I need is my bike working against me. I'm making sure that thing runs like a bomb. It's great timing…
My Paper Crane
New Nuns27 Jul 2015 | 6:00 amI have some new and improved nun fabrics over at Spoonflower. I made my first nun fabric years ago and have loved seeing it used for some many fun things. Can't wait to see what my new nuns become!
Halloween Quilt25 Jul 2015 | 6:00 amI've been slowly working on a Halloween quilt. My friend Jessee came up with a coffin dresden pattern and since I could not leave well enough alone I had to try and use paper piecing to create little windows in the coffins. She now has included my little hack with her pattern incase you'd like to make occupied coffins too. Hopefully I'll get my quilt finished before Halloween!
Plush Of The Month Club June23 Jul 2015 | 6:00 amThe Plush Of The Month Club boxes for June were something I had wanted to make for a long time. Trying to source the tin tv dinner trays took a long time, and then almost a month to even arrive, but I am glad for my patience because I was really happy with how they turned out. I cut out, folded, and glued the 200 cardboard covers over the course of a few days and as much as I love cutting things out, I was really happy when that part was over. I was very excited to find the packs of gummy peas and carrots. It seemed to fit in real well with the theme. I also included a little vintage style tv…
Just Two Words Project: Swan & Kite30 Jun 2015 | 5:00 amThis week's project was to create a set of stickers using the words swan and kite. At first I thought I would draw a bunch of birds flying kites (swans included) but I didn't love them and they started to look a little odd. So I started making kite shapes directly in Photoshop and just went with making my kites. Once those were done I thought about a day at the park riding Swan boats and flying kites and so they seemed to go together well. I wanted the stickers to look like those 3d puffy stickers.
Dyeing Yarn With Kool-Aid28 Jun 2015 | 10:18 amB and I decided to do some yarn dyeing with kool-aid for fun the other day. He isn't very interested in the idea of making anything out of the yarn himself. I even tried to entice him with weaving or friendship bracelets, but he thought the dyeing would be fun and I will take my crafty-time with him wherever I can get it. Here is how we dyed our wool yarns… You need 100% wool yarn, I got my wool skeins from YarnUndyedUSA but you can use the cheapest yarn you can find from major craft stores (with those 40% off coupons) it just has to be 100% wool. Next it needs to be in a skein…
Betz White
Seneca Creek Bag by Sara – Sewing Collective31 Jul 2015 | 6:13 amI'm totally in love with Sara's beautiful Indigo Seneca Creek Bag. The leather accents make it a cut above!- Betz Hello! It's Sara from Radiant Home Studio. You may already know that I love making bags. It's funny, because I usually carry the same bag everyday until it's worn out! Betz recently released a new pattern, the Seneca Creek Bag. Though I rarely swap bags, I'm sure I will actually use this bag instead of my big tote bag on occasion. You may have seen a few versions made by "Bag of the Month" club subscribers, and now the pattern is available to…
Coffee Cash Coin Pouch with Veronica – Sewing Collective24 Jul 2015 | 7:47 amYou are going to love this ingenious trick Veronica used for this week's Sewing Collective project! Dollar Store for the win! – Betz Hi, everyone! It's Veronica from sewVery here to share my twist on the little Coffee Cash Coin Pouch project. The pattern and tutorial for the Coffee Cash Coin Pouch can be found in Betz's book Present Perfect: 25 Gifts to Sew and Bestow and is not only a fun, quick sew, but a useful tool to store spare change in your purse or car for a future cup of Joe. While you are making one for yourself, go ahead and make…
Generation Q: Fold-over Clutch Project17 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amI'm excited to have a project to share in the July/August issue of Generation Q Magazine! There's a great article about upcycling and using vintage finds in your sewing and quilting. I shared my love of retro tea towels with this fold-over clutch. One side of the clutch is a tea towel and the other side is denim from an old pair of jeans. I used a bright zipper accented with a piece of grosgrain ribbon for the pull. Super simple, easy and a fun way to feature a small amount of a favorite fabric. Makes a great gift, too! You're reading Generation Q:…
Sweet Life Appliqué with Rebekah – Sewing Collective14 Jul 2015 | 5:56 amRebekah is the bees knees! (sorry, I couldn't resist!) I love what she's done with the Sweet Life pattern, check it out! – Betz Hello! It's Rebekah from The Little Red Thread back to share some fab tips and a fun twist on Betz's beautiful Sweet Life Pillow pattern, below. I love, love, love this method of applique. Reverse applique is one of my favorite ways to do applique. It's a quick and accurate way of producing works of art that look like they took you days to whip up. Betz's pattern from Present Perfect includes easy to follow step by…
Eye Candy Glasses Case with Melissa – Sewing Collective10 Jul 2015 | 5:29 amMelissa is rocking' it today with a project she made just for herself. I know, right? Don't forget to sew for YOU! – Betz I'm so excited to be back sharing another fantastic project! I decided to add something luxurious and lovely to my purse this summer….something just for me. So much of what I make is either directly made for my two (fantastic) sons or it is modified to be mom-friendly meaning it's durable, stain-proof and utilitarian. In a flash of nostalgia for my carefree twenties I decided to make Betz's eye glasses case for myself in leather…
Illustration Friday
Part Time Job, Full-Time Artist: Rethinking the Creative Career31 Jul 2015 | 8:00 amAmy Ng blogs at Pikaland, a popular stop for illustration lovers, students and artists who are looking for answers on how to find a balance between art, creativity and commerce. Two years ago while I was attending a conference on children's books in Singapore, I sat in on a panel that consisted of two writers and an illustrator. The one-hour long talk was about their journey and experience, and how they got to where they were, career-wise. When the Q+A session rolled about, I knew what I wanted to ask – it was at the back of my mind when I saw the slides of their journey and…
Polish Illustrator Nikola Kucharska31 Jul 2015 | 2:07 amNikola Kucharska Website >>
Pick of the Week for NATURE and This Week's Topic30 Jul 2015 | 9:44 pmHappy Illustration Friday, fellow creators! We're ready to announce this week's topic, but first please enjoy the wonderful illustration above by Jessica Roux, our Pick of the Week for last week's topic of NATURE (you can get a print here). Thanks to everyone who participated with drawings, paintings, sculptures, and more. We love seeing it all! You can see a gallery of ALL the entries here. And of course, you can now participate in this week's topic: GROW Here's how: Step 1: Illustrate your interpretation of the current week's topic (always viewable on the…
Comics Illustrator of the Week :: Phil Noto30 Jul 2015 | 12:33 pm" Quietly, one of the best current super-hero series being published is Nathan Edmondson & Phil Noto's run on Black Widow. I first noticed Noto's work on Marvel's Uncanny X-Force, a few years back. His work brings a nice combination of fine art & design aesthetics to mainstream comic books. One of Noto's earliest and most frequent collaborators was writing team extraordinaire Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti; starting off with a number of issues on their classic Jonah Hex run in the mid-2000's, then projects like Superman/Supergirl: Maelstrom and…
FREE Webinar: Creative Playgrounds30 Jul 2015 | 3:16 amWhile making notes for Salli's upcoming class – BUILD A FREELANCE ILLUSTRATION BUSINESS – she realized that one topic was worthy of it's own session: Creative Playgrounds, which Salli and her brother/business partner Nate Padavick believe can energize your career. What IS a Creative Playground and why are they so important? Join them for the FREE webinar August 10th at 4:00 EST (or watch any time after the live class). Take it from Albert Einstein: "Play is the highest form of research."
Portland (west)!24 Jul 2015 | 1:11 pmI had an amazing time! I saw beautiful dolls at the NIADA conference- Harriet by Shelley Thornton. Ima Naroditskaya's beautiful doll. I listened to amazing people give inspiring talks including- Ronnie Burkett His talk made me desperate to see one of his performances and guess what? He will be in NYC at the end of September! Time for another NYC trip! Toby Froud- And Georgina Hayns from Laika Studio who brought some of the puppets for us to examine, up close. So so awe-inspiring! (Are you noticing the puppet theme?) But that wasn't the best thing. The best thing is that I…
other tools for ornaments22 Jul 2015 | 3:43 pmI played with some new-to-me supplies/tools when I was working on the patterns. I didn't write them into the pattern directions because they aren't necessary, maybe just interesting. Have you heard of Frixion pens? They are erasable gel pens. There is an eraser at the end of the pen, but much more useful for me, the marks are erasable by ironing. That sounds like magic, doesn't it! Well, there is a problem. Yes, the marks disappear with heat but they will reappear with cold. I would never use them on my dolls, but an ornament? I don't think it is that big a deal…
and the winners are…21 Jul 2015 | 11:17 amI put the # of comments into the random number generator and got 30, 66, 16, 25, 15, 44, 41, 6, 40, and 27. Congratulations to Beverly Ann, Bettina, Dhonna, Vivien, Sarah, Susan, Mary, Kimber, Jennifer, and Barbara. Have fun with your patterns!
Summer fish19 Jul 2015 | 5:11 pmI am trying to get back into the studio groove after the pattern writing and my trip to west coast Portland. It is great to have projects that are almost entirely finished- I was able to spend half the day working and finished these 5 fish! I'll be getting them into my poor neglected Etsy shop soon. Next, finish up some tattooed men and cut out new ones! The hot weather will inspire me to stay in my air-conditioned studio.
Ornaments Live!16 Jul 2015 | 2:58 pmI have posted my 5 new pdf ornament patterns into my etsy shop here! I am SO excited about these. I had so much fun and can't wait to make more but back to work on dolls for a while first. To celebrate, I will give away 10 patterns! Leave a comment saying which one you'd like and I will pick ten winners after Monday (7/20, ends at midnight eastern US time). One entry per person, right?! There is the whale- Felt fish, perfect for embroidery embellishing! If you fill it with catnip, your kitty will love you (even more). An adorable Star Baby. You could embroider the back with a name…
Spirit Cloth
Seeking Balance31 Jul 2015 | 5:31 amGood-bye July. It rained like no tomorrow late yesterday. But here it is. I plan to be away for August. I need the time. And space. To rearrange. Shift. Center. Balance is a matter of practice I think. One must be ready at any moment for everything to change. Even if it is just the wind. One must practice change more than anything. Manage the unexpected. Dance with it. Not repeat the same old same old in hopes to get it right. I will be checking my email now and then. Posting a photo or two when it happens. The only surfing I will be doing is the kind that happens when you catch a…
Light and Open30 Jul 2015 | 8:18 amAnd still holding. What forms between appearing and disappearing is Magical. Leave space in your heart. It's a window.
Summer Stray at Home29 Jul 2015 | 7:44 amFor now.
Blue Squares at Dusk28 Jul 2015 | 5:33 pm
Page 2828 Jul 2015 | 11:07 amComments are off here because I am currently finishing up the Small Journey series and readying myself for a month away. I will be posting through Friday but my online presence has already become thinner as of today.
Craftster Community
Even more Simpsons...31 Jul 2015 | 7:41 pmBecause I just cannot stop. There are just so many to choose from!
Re: Princess Peach Doll31 Jul 2015 | 7:30 pmQuote from: ginkan on Today at 05:09:09 AMShe is so cute and perfect ! Thank you very much!! =]
Re:31 Jul 2015 | 7:29 pmAny hint of the new theme for August??
Re: Sparkly Jewelry Dish31 Jul 2015 | 7:27 pmMod Podge is super easy! I usually give it an hour or so between layers -- but I'm an impatient crafter, so maybe read the label first.
Re: Altered puzzle pieces, Round 10 SU Closed; SO blanks by 7/4/15, SO APPs b 8/1/1531 Jul 2015 | 7:24 pmI will have all of you know I have been checking my mailbox multiple times a day every day...
Judy Wise
Recycling Old Paintings30 Jul 2015 | 2:45 pmThis is my latest journal.I just finished sewing it yesterday and thought I'd share my process to help spark ideas for you in the studio.I know a lot of you, like me, generate works on paper that stack up in the studio. While the paintings may be beautiful, they aren't really enjoyed if they're languishing in a folder in the dark.The painting above, 12x12" on 140# watercolor paper, was in a folder with a stack of other non representational paintings that I did over a year ago.This one above was in the same folder. I used both of them on the cover and end sheets of my new…
July Garden27 Jul 2015 | 9:45 pmDespite our drought, John's garden looks as beautiful as ever.People keep asking if he's cutting back; making it smaller.Well, the answer is no. It gets bigger each year if anything.He's cut off the sugar peas that have stopped producing to save seed.Meanwhile, there's a bean crop sprouting below that will utilize the trellis.He plants flowers among the veggies, like the English.And grows lots of peppers, like these jalapenos.We got our first tomatoes in June. Stupice; short growing season and dependable.Mystery perennial that came in with a load of chips. Some type of Rudbeckia.And then…
July20 Jul 2015 | 6:20 pmHello my faithful friends. I've taken time out to just live without blogging, without taking photos, without creating the time needed to organize and report. It's been that kind of summer, in a very good way.(check one more off my bucket list: paddling a kayak)This photo above sums up for me a time with friends on Bainbridge Island a few weeks ago. Bare feet and fresh air. Campfires. Letting go and letting ourselves just be. Asking life to slow down a bit.Nia class with the women. Surrounding each other with love, kindness, and willingness. We gathered to paint with Misty. Check…
Amsterdam!9 Jun 2015 | 9:41 amI'm so excited to announce that Katie Kendrick and I will be teaching in Amsterdam next May. We've been planning this for some time now so I was especially alert when flying in to Amsterdam last month on my way to Scotland to observe the offshore wind farms, canals and lovely old buildings of that city, knowing that I'd be returning there in a year.Incidentally, Portland has a direct 9 hour flight to Amsterdam now. Wow!! Easy!Oh, to see the wonderful museums, the Dutch Masters, the modern city, the beauty of this place. And to see it with a wonderful group of artists who will share your love…
Journal Pages30 May 2015 | 11:56 amIt's been awhile since I posted journal pages. But I continue to write.It's been a life long passion.An obsession, I suppose.Maybe in a previous life I was a scribe or a monk.Sitting alone in my cell penning words.That's what I am in this life, anyway.At times.Now that the nest is empty I can finally think.I used to wish the merry-go-round would stop awhile so I could figure life out.That's what I'm doing now, I suppose.Trying to connect the dots.And also writing things down so I won't forget.Recording the results of the experiments in my laboratory studio.Referencing recipes for…
Cut Out + Keep
Duct Tape Organizers31 Jul 2015 | 6:22 amI needed to organize my son's bookshelf. I had received a package and I decided to reuse the box. It happened to be they used a box from the post office.
School Cardigans31 Jul 2015 | 4:46 amThis is a very simple cardigan pattern which can be used for school or home. Make it your own by adding stripes or incorporating pictures by using the intarsia method.
Diy Pom Pom Garland31 Jul 2015 | 3:03 amThis garland is great for holidays, school colors, or just adding some fun to your home.
Mermaid Inspired Makeup Tutorial31 Jul 2015 | 3:03 amThis look was inspired by mermaids and summer!
Beaded'n Painted31 Jul 2015 | 3:03 amI had a bunch of unsorted beads and needed to get rid of them, so I followed the instructions from my "100 beaded flowers charms and Trinkets" book and then I painted them so that I wouldn't need to add diffrent colored beads and make an even bigger mess. What is shown is: A clock, a cake, a potion vile, a fox (looks more like a dog) a chocolate with icing on it, and a bottle
Chica and Jo
Disney's Tusker House orzo pasta salad29 Jul 2015 | 12:11 pmWe are huge Disney fans here in my house and we try to go to Walt Disney World as often as we can. A few visits ago, we made lunch reservations at the Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. While there, I must have eaten an entire pan of the orzo pasta salad. It is AMAZING! Once home, I had to find a recipe. I found this base recipe on AllEars.net and altered it slightly to my tastes. It is now my go-to potluck side dish for the summer. It looks impressive and tastes so light and fresh! Tusker House Orzo Pasta Salad Ingredients: 12 ounces orzo (cooked) 1 cup fresh spinach 2 teaspoons olive oil ¼…
Customized succulent pots22 Jul 2015 | 7:40 amI have an addiction to Target. There, I admitted it. I have even passed this addiction on to my girls. Maybe it's a genetic mutation, I don't know. Anyway, on my most recent trip, I was cruising the craft aisle and noticed these adorable pots by Handmade Modern. I scooped them right up and brought them home to customize. There's a natural "line" around the bottom of the pots. I painted the bottom section with Multi-Surface paint so I could put the pots outside. I didn't bother taping anything, I just went for it! I used Shrimp, Soft Jade, and Dolphin as my…
Upcycled Patron bottle cheese serving set16 Jul 2015 | 6:34 pmI have always wanted to try my hand at cutting glass bottles and upcycling them into new pieces, but for some reason I never got around to it. I've even collected pretty wine and liquor bottles with the hopes of creating something with them some day. When I heard about the Art Of Patron bottle upcycling contest, I knew it was time to try glass cutting at last! I'm so glad I did, too, because I am completely in love with the cheese serving set I ended up creating. The first thing I had to do was learn how to cut glass bottles. I did some research and found lots of quick-and-easy…
Stencil an arrow design on a fringe purse12 Jul 2015 | 5:04 pmI found this fringed purse for Little Jo at Target and she loved the style. However, we both agree that it needed a little something extra to make it truly hers. As you know from the jewelry box I did for her recently, she loves The Hunger Games and all things arrow. This little bag needed some arrows! I had this arrow stencil from DecoArt that I chose to use. First, I sprayed a little stencil adhesive on the back to help it stick to the surface. I only wanted to use the crossed arrows so I taped off the parts I didn't want. For this project, I turned to Little Jo's favorite…
Chalky Finish jewelry box9 Jul 2015 | 5:48 amI found this less-than-attractive jewelry box at the flea market and decided to try and give it a facelift. Little Jo had been wanting a new jewelry box since the one she had was too small and baby-ish. Yes, she's certainly growing up fast! My stash of Americana Decor Chalky Finish paints were the obvious choice for this make-over. I painted the top a quick coat of Everlasting. I did this because I wanted to use some Decou-Page Paper on the top and I didn't want the original wood color showing through the white areas. For the main body, I used New Life. I pulled my color palette…
Craftster Blog
@Home This Weekend: Fabric Boxes31 Jul 2015 | 5:38 amThis weekend, make some beautiful fabric boxes, using a great tutorial shared by whatzudoin. I can think of all sorts of uses for boxes: use them for decor, or storage, or give them as a gift (or use them as awesome gift wrap!) Great news: no sewing necessary!
Tute Tuesday: A Pod of Narwhals28 Jul 2015 | 1:44 pmNarwhals, narwhals, swimming in the ocean, causing a commotion, because they are so awesome! These horned whales are just about the coolest ever. While having one as a real pet is completely out of the picture. I can make my very own pod of plush narwhals with AngelCallie's tutorial for Plushie Narwhal. These little guys […]
Hey, it's summer. Go outside!28 Jul 2015 | 6:00 amWe're in the midst of those lazy days of summer. Let's take a visit to some of our Craftster friends who have been busy making their outdoor space unique and inviting. C'mon! Let's hit the home of TheMistressT first, because she's got tasty summer drinks. Don't they look delicious on her fabulous striped table cozy? […]
Meatless Monday: Chia Pudding27 Jul 2015 | 11:37 amCha Cha Cha Chia! You know that you sang that jingle when you first read the title. Don't lie! I did it too. Chia seeds are very popular right now. So many people use them in their recipes. From salad toppers to a sweet treat, these little guys are everywhere. HSG shares her take on […]
Spotlight on: Smoothies with Recipe Goodness27 Jul 2015 | 8:22 amWhat is cold, delicious, healthy and can be made in minutes? Smoothies! Smoothies have been around since the 1930's, believe it or not. Coinciding with the invention of the electric blender. Now there are blenders specifically made for making smoothies. During the summer we have so many fresh fruits and vegetables available. At the grocery, […]
Art Bead Scene Blog
Inside the Studio with Mary Harding31 Jul 2015 | 4:00 amEach week one of our contributors gives you a sneak peek into their studio, creative process or inspirations. We ask a related question of our readers and hope you'll leave comments! As an incentive, we offer a prize each week to bribe you to use that keyboard and tell us what you think. The following week a winner is chosen at random from all eligible entries.Congratulations to Amara Honeck!!! You have won a $25.00 gift certificate to Humblebeads.comPlease email Heather to claim your prize.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Welcome to the studio of Mary…
Hello Art Bead Scene!30 Jul 2015 | 3:59 amHello Art Bead Scene! My name is Michelle McCarthy and I am one of the newest contributors. I have been playing with ceramic clay for 10 years now. I started out with hand building and wheel lessons at my local art center in Englewood, Florida. I had a wonderful instructor who encouragedand supported my growth in making functional and decorative pottery. I started selling my pottery at out door tent shows through out Florida. Well, wind can be brutal and a few shows I had more pottery break than I sold. Not fun. But....I soon discovered beads…
July Monthly Recap28 Jul 2015 | 11:05 pmLet's go to the sea, shall we?!We will sit with our toes in the sand, soaking up the warmth of the hot summer sun, searching for shells and investigating the tide pools. We will leave footprints and gaze on sunsets and imbibe in drinks with little umbrellas floating in coconuts. May you see all of eternity in the spirals of a shell and feel the infinite wonder of being a speck against the clear blue sea meeting the cloudless sky. And may you wonder at the majesty of it all!July ABS Monthly Recap by Slidely Photo GalleryWant to see it large? And listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean?
Patina Ideas28 Jul 2015 | 6:08 amThe other day I ran across this formula for creating patina on copper sheets with Miracle-Gro and vinegar and thought it would be worth a try. Hint - it has to be the Miracle-Gro water soluble azalea, camellia and rhododendrons plant food. You can read the directions here from Home Depot. I would use copper sheets from a jewelry supply shop, Ace Hardware or Hobby Lobby - they don't have a coat and you'd like to use thicker .016 copper sheets for most jewelry projects. (Photo credit: Home Depot)This is a super fun idea from Rena Klingenberg using a Sharpie as a resist for…
Amuse the Muse - Ocean Inspired Beads - with Rebecca of Songbead27 Jul 2015 | 12:00 amHello all! It's the last week of our ocean-inspired beads roundup - and this week, I'm bringing you a selection of beautiful handmade polymer art beads. Enjoy!Studio St JamesToo AquariusJewellery QuarterSelena Anne WellsAreto Beads JewelleryCheryl's ArtPips JewelleryBeads by Earth TonesRobin the RavenAnd now for the BeadBlogger Links - have a great week everyone!The Writing and Art of Andrew ThorntonCheck out Andrew's new bronze creations and find out what he plans to do with them!Robot LoveEnjoy some fun amigurumi & learn about a few crafting giveaways.Connie Gee's SALConnie has started…
CraftStylish - All featured posts
How to Sew a Tray Cover23 Jul 2015 | 12:10 pmPosted by Deana This is the kind of quick and easy project that makes me feel like I am living the dream: sweetly pampered and lavishly lux.
Booklet and Clutch Giveaway: Super Simple Stick Weaving23 Jul 2015 | 11:10 amPosted by AlexLombardi This week, we're giving away a booklet full of stick weaving projects and a finished clutch project that was featured in it. Leave a comment and you could win.
How to Make a Two-Color A-Line Tee Skirt21 Jul 2015 | 10:05 pmPosted by leethal You won't need a pattern or any major sewing experience to cut two recycled T-shirts into panels and sew them into a super-simple and comfortable skirt!
Make a Revamped Sparkle Necklace and Earrings Set20 Jul 2015 | 10:15 pmPosted by susanstars Rework a forgotten piece of vintage costume jewelry into this striking earrings and necklace set, perfect for a gift or a summer wedding! This project is very flexible—just choose an old necklace you haven't worn for a while and salvage the beads for an all-new configuration.
How to Create a Retro Cocktail Apron7 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmPosted by JenniferSauer I can't think of anything cuter and easier to stitch up than a perky cocktail apron a la Lucille Ball. It makes a great accessory for entertaining (what a conversation starter!) or the perfect unique gift all for under $10 and less than half an hour of your sewing time.
Tip Junkie
Craft Room Countdown ~ Add Yours! {8/1}31 Jul 2015 | 5:00 pmReady to start a Craft Room Count Down with Tip Junkie!?! Debuting in 2014, we've rolled out some new themes to better promote creative women, and we are continuing in 2015! {{yep, that's YOU}} Craft Room Count Down? Every Saturday here on Tip Junkie I'll be giving you a list of ideas that I'm just dying to feature here on Tip Junkie. I'm giving you a heads up in advance ~ so I can feature YOU! {{cheezy grin}} Here's How to Add Your Project to a Craft Room on Tip Junkie. Yep, I [...]keep reading
19 How to Make a Headboard That Looks Designer30 Jul 2015 | 5:09 pmMaking a headboard for your bed is easier than you think! If you can paint and use a stapler then you can make a headboard. {{wink}} If you've been wanting to transform a bedroom, you'll love these 19 free patterns on how to make a headboard! Each one has pictured instructions which takes you through the process. We've taken away all the guess work on how to make a headboard with these incredible tutorials. For even more ways to decorate your home Tip Junkie's Creative Community has over 2,000 DIY Decorating ideas. You [...]keep reading
Today's Creative Life
Creative Crafts, Recipes, DIY and more!31 Jul 2015 | 4:00 pmThis is an original post from Today's Creative Life Click the title to read the full article. It's Friday and I couldn't be happier! Get ready to be inspired by all the amazing linked up projects from bloggers all over the internet! You'll find creative crafts, recipes, DIY and more! For more inspiration, follow me on Pinterest where I pin anything that catches my eye! Visit Kim Demmon {Today's Creative Life}'s profile […] Author information Kim Owner/Founder at Today's Creative Blog Since 2007, Kim has been sharing tips and tutorials on how to live a…
ReGroup ReFocus ReCharge31 Jul 2015 | 4:00 amThis is an original post from Today's Creative Life Click the title to read the full article. Me Time….. I HATE that term. I've always considered that term very selfish. But I'm starting to realize that I'm wrong and a nice reboot is much needed for women! ReGroup, ReFocus, ReCharge! She Takes Flight We mama's are selfless 98% of the time, always putting our families first. We tend to take the back […] Author information Kim Owner/Founder at Today's Creative Blog Since 2007, Kim has been sharing tips and tutorials on how to live a creative life.
What's Forgotten in your Bathroom?30 Jul 2015 | 4:56 amThis is an original post from Today's Creative Life Click the title to read the full article. Yes! I'm talking Toilet Paper today. Not just any toilet paper, but Quilted Northern®. I just revealed a quick bathroom makeover a couple of weeks ago, which really improved this tiny little guest bath. It went from dark and drab to light and beautiful! What's Forgotten in your Bathroom? People who come in here use […] Author information Kim Owner/Founder at Today's Creative Blog Since 2007, Kim has been sharing tips and tutorials on how to live a creative life. Owner/Founder…
Free Home Alone Printable29 Jul 2015 | 3:00 amThis is an original post from Today's Creative Life Click the title to read the full article. Please welcome Printable Contributor, Marlynn from UrbanBlissLife as she shares a very valuable printable! This FREE Home Alone Printable will really come in handy if you've got children who are just starting to stay home alone. This will help both you and your children feel more confident. See more from Marlynn here. FREE Home Alone […] Author information Marlynn publisher at Urban Bliss Life Marlynn Schotland is a longtime Pacific Northwest gal, mom of two, and publisher of the…
Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken27 Jul 2015 | 7:45 pmThis is an original post from Today's Creative Life Click the title to read the full article. This Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken is going to become your best friend! Let's pretend I had this scheduled to post for Slow Cooker Sunday. If you've followed me on Instagram (@TodaysCreativeBlog) or caught me on Periscope (@TCreativeBlogs), then you know I've been traveling all over from the state of Utah, to the Oregon Coast, to […] Author information Kim Owner/Founder at Today's Creative Blog Since 2007, Kim has been sharing tips and tutorials on how to live a creative…
Vanilla Joy
*TUTORIAL* $4 Love My State T-Shirt28 Jul 2015 | 9:22 pmWe recently got back from a glorious trip up the west coast through Oregon and Washington and our hearts are still there. Oregon is my favorite place in the world and I think it's my boys' favorite place too. We decided we ought to make a special Love Oregon t-shirt to commemorate this year's adventures. […]
*REVIEW* Animalium28 Jul 2015 | 2:02 pmI love non-fiction books, especially books with beautiful pictures. This book has such rich illustrations – the colors are so vibrant and I love the style and how the books is formatted with a page of numbered illustrations and a page of interesting information. It covers a wide variety of animal species, habitats, etc. I […]
Don't let an upset tummy ruin today's adventure!25 Jul 2015 | 1:00 pm"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Little Remedies. I received a product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for my participation." There is nothing worse than watching your child suffer, no matter the cause. Kids pick up illnesses, infections, rashes, and suffer from allergies, sensitivities, […]
*REVIEW* Minion Mega Bloks Madness20 Jul 2015 | 3:49 pmHave you seen Minions yet? It's been out for over a week, what are you waiting for ?!? And right after you go see the movie, hop on Amazon and order one of these brand new MegaBloks Minions sets! The Castle Adventure set is brand new and available now on Amazon and it's packed full […]
*TUTORIAL* Easy Weaving for Kids22 Jun 2015 | 11:40 amWe learned about the Maya and did some of our own weaving as a supplemental activity. I love actual skill building activities like this for my kids – it gets them using their hands and heads together and learning actual skills that may come in handy some day! Or at the very least clue them […]
house wren studio
summertime23 Jul 2015 | 8:06 amMaggie and I have been taking little Vince to the town pool now and then. It reminds me so much of the days when I did that with the girls in Chicago. The sounds of splashing, children calling, moms visiting...
spring sponsors and a giveaway!9 Jul 2015 | 8:20 amOur spring events in Vermont were sponsored by several friends and featured artists. Each gift was a lovely gesture of support and generosity! Local potter, Jessica Putnam-Phillips from Battenkill Pottery created a beautiful tea leaf piece for each guest. Perfect...
spring in vermont and what's next26 Jun 2015 | 2:50 pmThis has been a busy spring and summer for me. Our house sold, I downsized and moved after an enormous tag sale a few weeks ago. (!!!) But in the midst of that, my friend Meleen and I hosted back...
fall 2015 workshops in vermont21 May 2015 | 2:26 pmIt's almost time for our spring Vermont retreats and the questions are already coming about plans for the fall. Happy to announce that our next pair of Vermont weekends will be this September. We are so honored to have two...
new home20 May 2015 | 6:07 pmI'm moved in. I can't really believe it's been a week. Tonight was the first night I cooked here. I have found places for things. And things for places. Made makeshift curtains that will probably stay the duration. Made the...
Urban patchwork29 Jul 2015 | 2:43 am
Impressions...27 Jul 2015 | 2:52 am...from the exhibition "Sami contemporary", Nordic Embassies Berlin (details of work fromAslaug Juliussen + Britta Marakatt-Labba)
...and another one in progress25 Jul 2015 | 7:33 am
Friday stitching...17 Jul 2015 | 11:36 am
Still in a mood for pink...10 Jul 2015 | 8:39 am...and still exploring ways to weave...
Try Handmade
New in the Gallery31 Jul 2015 | 9:01 pmStylish BIB NECKLACE with assorted colors, a bright combination of shades of purple with orange and blue. Handmade with a [more...] Similarly Awesome No related posts.
Save me from myself31 Jul 2015 | 8:55 amI clearly just need to start a category called "Please buy this before I do" — and this bag would [more...] Similarly Awesome No related posts.
New in the Gallery30 Jul 2015 | 8:44 pm[more...] Similarly Awesome No related posts.
What else is in your spa?30 Jul 2015 | 8:27 amHandmade beauty includes a host of toiletries, everything from cosmetics to deodorant. What about soothing your other senses? Relaxation can [more...] Similarly Awesome No related posts.
Happy Earth Day!29 Jul 2015 | 8:07 pmEarth Day is here again and what better way to celebrate than by winning some low-impact, earth-friendly, handmade goods? The [more...] Similarly Awesome No related posts.
More Trophy Goodness31 Jul 2015 | 5:03 pmWhile I won't showcase the finished piece before the tournament next Sunday, you can still get an idea of how it looks from these in process shots. Before forming any of the pieces, I added the little dot details along the edges of all the petals. Then the bowl portion was formed into a bowl […]
Art of the State Artist Interview: Meghan Baum26 Jul 2015 | 7:01 amWalking through this year's Art of the State, I was struck by Meghan's painting. I kept looking at and picturing it in my living room. When I looked her up online I was surprised to see that she just graduated art school this Spring! You can find her piece, Here is Where It Happened, at […]
Trophies of the Soccer World23 Jul 2015 | 6:58 amWhile I'm diligently working away at the "Rose Bowl" trophy in my studio, there has been an international soccer tournament going on RIGHT HERE in the USA. CONCACAF's Gold Cup has been happening for the last couple weeks and the final is this weekend. This decides who from out area of the world goes to […]
From Paper to Metal and a little Krull too19 Jul 2015 | 7:41 amI whet your appetite with the paper designs for the commissioned trophy, but now I've got some in process shots for you too. I textured and folded two sheets of brass for the base and the main bowl portion, then I air chased the sheet destined to be the bowl. Yeah, like "there was told […]
Art of the State Artist Interview: Ira Upin15 Jul 2015 | 6:45 amThe next interview from an Art of the State artist is with Ira Upin. It was hard to ignore Ira's piece at the exhibition. Not only is it right next to mine, it's huge, colorful, and dominates the room. It totally makes me think of a reggae album cover and I love the graphicness of […]
Fidgety Fingers
HEARTBREAKING : THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY25 Jul 2015 | 7:16 pm
LOVE YOURSELF BECAUSE NO ONE ELSE WILL5 Jul 2015 | 3:50 amWe are at this crossroad again. Decisions have to be made. Perhaps heads will roll, perhaps they will not. We don't know. Perhaps sometimes we care too much. Perhaps, just perhaps our focus is in the wrong place. There are so many times we want to run away, to a place no one knows us. That perhaps we can start from scratch and no one cares. We can be anyone we want. There is no history, no
HAPPINESS 25061526 Jun 2015 | 1:33 amNah, make that a lucid dream sandwich because it is impossible to make you a sandwich anyway.
SO TIRED FROM LUCID DREAMING7 Jun 2015 | 7:21 amWe are working this weekend. We feel good, empowered that our ability has brought us to this stage in life where we have an awesome team supporting us. Despite that, our job is more difficult and sometimes it cause sleepless nights. We get so tired these days that going out to explore the city over the weekend is hardly an activity to consider. This tiredness is surreal in itself. We have
LOVING THESE BEACH SHADES13 May 2015 | 11:31 pmAnd yes, you, whoever you are, you will build this for me one day and I shall feed cake to you.
Blog - VERY SHANNON
KNIT ALONG || BROOKLYN TWEED LOVE AFFAIR & SSKAL KICKOFF!29 Jul 2015 | 12:30 pmIt's here!!! It's our Summer Sweater Knit Along Kick-Off Day!!! Get those needles ready! It's time to join in and get knitting a lovely garment during the summer months so you can wear it just in time for the fall/winter! Our Summer Sweater Knit Along Homepage is live! So pop on over and read all the details, get signed up, get inspired and check out our homepage! It's best viewed on your desktop or laptop than a mobile device. It's pretty to look at it :) We've got our hashtag - #sskal15, our pinterest page, sponsors and more! I can't wait to start seeing all your swatches and…
GIVEAWAY || HANDMADE STYLE BY ANNA GRAHAM OF NOODLEHEAD!28 Jul 2015 | 5:01 amI'm beyond thrilled and excited to be giving away a copy of my dear friend Anna Graham's new book "Handmade Style: 23 Must-Have Basics to Stitch, Use and Wear" today. Her blog Noodlehead, is and has been, one of my top five reads for as long as I've been reading blogs. Handmade Style is just as addicting, and stays true to her wonderful aesthetic and style. I'm so proud of all of her successes and it's been so awesome watching all of her talents bloom and grow! With a gorgeous new book and equally fabulous fabric line, Rain Walk (just released this year from Cloud 9…
KNIT ALONG || SUMMER SWEATER KNIT ALONG ANNOUNCEMENT22 Jul 2015 | 10:48 amIt's almost time for our favourite knit along of the year - the Summer Sweater Knit Along!!! Our SSKAL, as we call it, encourages knitters to keep on knitting garments throughout the summer months so they can sport their new handmade lovelies just in time for fall/winter! SHARE YOUR PROJECTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA! USE HASHTAG #SSKAL15!Below are all the details you need to know to get ready for the launch of the Summer Sweater Knit Along next week! There's already a SSKAL pre-kal thread started in our Ravelry Group so feel free to chat patterns, swatches, yarns and more! I can't wait to…
CRUSHES || LOVELIES FOR THE STASH (SUMMER ROAD TRIP PART ONE)21 Jul 2015 | 10:23 amI'm back from our road trip over to Washington and I'm super excited to show you the goodies I brought home with me! The shops we visited are all wonderful and special and I'm so happy to have been able to bring back with me some very yummy goodies! I had such a wonderful time visiting these amazing shops! All the lovelies from this post were from Churchmouse Yarns & Teas, Tolt Yarn and Wool Shop and Dry Goods Design. If you are in the Seattle, WA area I highly recommend visiting all 3 shops! Each is special and inspiring in it's own unique way!I could have spent days in each one…
EVENTS || TOLT YARN & WOOL SHOP11 Jul 2015 | 3:00 pmJane and I are still on our Summer Road Trip! Our next stop is the fabulous Tolt Yarn and Wool Shop! We are beyond excited! Tolt is also a shop that is not to be missed! I've even threatened to move in and live there...lol. We sure hope you'll all make the gorgeous drive out to Carnation, WA to visit us at Tolt! We'll be there on Sunday, July 12th, from 1pm - 3pm! We hope you'll come visit Jane and I at Tolt Yarn and Wool on Sunday, July 12th, from 1pm - 3pm!We'll be at Tolt with our trunk show (yay, samples for you to try on), books and we're even hosting a knitting circle! So bring…
FaveCrafts.com Articles
Drilled Constellation Pumpkins31 Jul 2015 | 11:53 amAlong with the galaxy print trend that exploded this past summer, constellations have been sneaking into fashion and home decor. If you want your Jack O Lanterns to be stars this year, you should make Drilled Constellation Pumpkins. These pumpkin carving designs require you to look up constellations like the big dipper to make this Halloween craft. The Drilled Constellation Pumpkins look great during the day and at night. As far as Halloween projects go, this one will surely make your doorstep shine bright on such a scary night.
Father's Day Tool Decorations31 Jul 2015 | 11:41 am"Here is an easy wood burning project that will make a great Father's Day gift. The cost is minimal and you can finish this in about an hour."
Vintage Inspired Crochet Pot Holder31 Jul 2015 | 11:40 amUse this crochet pattern for beginners and make this Vintage Inspired Crochet Pot Holder. This is a great project to add to your kitchen craft ideas. You can make this easy craft by making small granny squares seamed together. This is a great weekend project that is cute and useful around your kitchen. You can use black and white yarn as shown in the picture, or customize this craft and pick your own colors to show off your personal style.
DIY Graduation Frame31 Jul 2015 | 11:37 amGraduation is a special time for graduates of all ages, from junior high school to grad school. It's difficult to think of what to say in a graduation card, and rather than sending something generic, make something that a graduate will cherish forever. Cards get recycled after a brief stint on the refrigerator, but a DIY Graduation Frame would contain fond memories and become more special as time goes on. Making the graduation craft is very simple and you can include a congratulations greeting in the frame.
Benetta Strydom31 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amBenetta Strydom is from Pretoria, South Africa. By day, she is a Remedial therapist at a local high school, and by night she is an avid crafter. She enjoys experimenting with different craft media, and has also taken art classes for a few years.
Free Knitting Patterns for Fall31 Jul 2015 | 5:21 amOkay, so it's a little difficult to imagine wearing, let alone knitting, a sweater, scarf, shawl, or gloves. Especially when it is nearly July and the temperatures are soaring quickly into the 90's. But all those things take time to make people! Before you know it, school is going to be starting and the leaves will be turning colors, and then panic mode will set in because you didn't get a head start. Never fear, though, I compiled the biggest list of free knitting patterns for fall. You're going to feel so cozy in these knit sweaters, homemade knit scarves, and fuzzy…
Plan Ahead: 14 DIY Fall and Winter Wedding Centerpieces30 Jul 2015 | 5:02 amSpring and summer are the two biggest seasons for weddings. My sister just got married about three weeks ago, so I know how much planning she had to do in an abnormal amount of time in advance, just to make sure she got everything done before the rush for all the other summer weddings went through. Her maid of honor had the bachelorette party planned and booked about three months ahead, all without a wedding guide or planner. Summer in Missouri is relatively safe weather wise, except for this year when the entire Midwest is practically drowning. Luckily, it was a humid, sunny day, so the…
DIY Dorm Room Decorating Ideas27 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amI am one of the lucky few who get to say that I have lived on campus, in a dorm room, with the same girl for all of college. Anyone will tell you not to live with your best friend starting out; I'm just lucky enough that my roommate turned into my best friend. Out of all the crazy stories these past three years, I never regretted a single thing. The only thing I wished could have happened was a decorated dorm room. I got the basics that every college kid needed, overstuffed the car, and went my merry way to school. None of it matched. Even now, as I start my last semester, I still have…
10 Sorority Gift Ideas for Your Little and Fun DIY Gifts25 Jul 2015 | 5:58 amSo there are a million and one sorority gift ideas on Pinterest and Instagram, but there are the basics that every Little needs to start out with. If you're a Big who wants to show your Little the ropes, you know how much you wanted to show your letters in every aspect of your life when you first accepted your bid. You probably went straight to Etsy to buy Greek apparel (I did it too). But quickly, you realized how over-priced Greek apparel and sorority trinkets are. You've learned, and you surely don't want your Little to make the same mistake. Your job is to help your…
Link Love: 35 Trendy DIY Jewelry24 Jul 2015 | 5:58 amOne of the common misconceptions about DIY jewelry is that they don't look like store-bought or that they aren't trendy and fashionable. We are here to prove them wrong! Homemade jewelry is absolutely gorgeous and there are endless possibilities with what you can do with it. There's clay jewelry, metalwork, beaded, wire work, and so many other options for what you can make. As long as you have the right tools and an endless imagination, you can make anything you think of. Can't find the right leather bracelet? That's why you make it yourself and use the materials…
Merriment Design
{BOOK GIVEAWAY} The Big Book of Mod Podge: Decoupage Made Easy23 Jul 2015 | 1:43 pmWin a copy of The Big Book of Mod Podge: Decoupage Made Easy by Plaid Enterprises Inc. with more than 90 + decoupage projects from beginner to advanced, courtesy of Lark Crafts. Mod Podge – the all-in-one glue, sealer and finish that was born in the '60s in Atlanta, Georgia – is one of the most popular craft materials out there. I like Mod Podge because it's really versatile and really pretty forgiving to work with, and you can up cycle and decorate things like this party beverage bucket: The Big Book of Mod Podge: Decoupage Made Easy is a craft book that you're…
3 Creative Travel Activities for Kids Ages 4-725 Jun 2015 | 7:02 amSchool's out and it's time to travel! The kids and I took a three-week road trip with several stops along the way. Packing for road trips can get tricky — especially choosing which toys and travel activities to take along for the kids. As a creative person, I think it's important to bring some creativity-building, non-electronic toys that will keep the kids entertained both on the road and at our destination. And I've learned from past trips that it's best to pack portable toys that the kids can play with in multiple ways. Today I'm sharing 3 creative…
DIY Tie Napkin Rings and Tie Bunting Father's Day Decorations8 Jun 2015 | 7:59 amHere's an easy idea for DIY Father's Day decorations: Colorful paper tie napkin rings, tie garland bunting decorations, and a tie card. It's a kid-friendly activity and a festive way to Colorize your Father's Day brunch. The kids think Father's Day is kind of like a birthday and so they wanted to decorate for "Daddy Day." We each made some ties and I love how they're all colorful and each have a different little personality. We made tie napkin rings and a tie Father's Day card… …and a tie garland above our kitchen island for…
Easy Craft for Kids: DIY Bracelets26 May 2015 | 7:10 pmToday we had some time to kill before dinner so we made these easy DIY bracelets on the deck. This kid's craft kept both my 5-year-old and my 3-year-old interested and occupied for a good 30 minutes with very little supervision which was exactly what momma needed after a super packed Memorial Day weekend. You only need two items for this kid's craft activity — VELCRO® One-Wrap Straps and Tulip Fabric Markers (or colored Sharpie markers) — plus a good pair of scissors. These DIY bracelets are a simplified version of the Frozen snowflake charm bracelets that Elise and I…
Make an Easy Disney Princess Birthday Cake Using Stickers (yes, stickers)14 May 2015 | 12:22 pmWant to make an easy DIY princess birthday cake? Use princess stickers! Call it a cop-out or a moment of pure genius, using princess stickers is hands-down the easiest way to decorate a DIY Disney princess birthday cake …and really any other character cake too. Elise wanted an "All The Disney Princesses" birthday cake including Elsa/Anna/Olaf from Frozen, Rapunzel from Tangled, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Belle from Beauty and The Beast, Aurora from Sleeping Beauty, and the other Disney princess ladies. Using stickers made it possible to pull all these different…
Handmade Charlotte
Backstage with the Rock Stars of Shopping31 Jul 2015 | 2:45 pmTake a behind-the-scenes look at the ultimate shopping party! Read more here - Backstage with the Rock Stars of Shopping
Zucchini–Blueberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting31 Jul 2015 | 9:22 amSweet blueberries, lemony cream cheese frosting, and zucchini come together in a deliciously moist cupcake recipe. Yum! Read more here - Zucchini–Blueberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Shop the Latest Collection from Handmade Charlotte31 Jul 2015 | 8:59 amTake a peek at our new line of Boho craft kits! Read more here - Shop the Latest Collection from Handmade Charlotte
How To Make Colorful & Edible Homemade Play Dough30 Jul 2015 | 8:58 amWhy fight the urge? Whip up a batch of yummy homemade play dough that's safe to eat! Read more here - How To Make Colorful & Edible Homemade Play Dough
Charm Your Friends with These Funky Handmade Necklaces!29 Jul 2015 | 2:27 pmUse the Mod Melter and DIY tassels to create a bold, colorful look! Read more here - Charm Your Friends with These Funky Handmade Necklaces!
Flower Girl Designs Collection
One Subject Notebook Cover with Pencil Pocket Sewing Pattern29 Jul 2015 | 1:05 pmThis is an easy and useful sewing pattern, the pencil pocket is right in the cover of the notebook. The cover is also, great for any book and quilting or sewing book that is the size of a one subject notebook. Find the pdf pattern here.
Weeping Willow Tree28 Jul 2015 | 1:34 pmMy favorite tree in the yard, how big and beautiful it is, I have a few growing by the pond, but not near as big and beautiful as the one in the front yard.
Keepsake Signature Table Runner pdf Pattern15 Jul 2015 | 12:15 pmMake the party memorable with a Keepsake Signature Table Runner, great for Birthdays, Graduation, Weddings, New House, Babies, Holidays and more.Use a permanent marker and have guests sign the front of the table runner, on the back write the date and occasion to keep it memorable.The pattern has two sizes 25 guests and 50 guests, which each Keepsake Table Runner could easily hold more signatures.This is a fun and easy to make pdf pattern, great for gifts too. Find the pattern here.
Strawberries7 Jul 2015 | 11:33 amMy first strawberries from my strawberry patch. Delish!!
Countryside Tote Bag pdf Pattern10 Jun 2015 | 11:30 amCountryside Tote Bag pdf PatternThis is a great bag for a day in the country, city or shopping at the grocery store. Approximate finished size 13" x 14" x 5"It has a magnetic snap closure that is optional in the pattern. Find the pdf Pattern here.
Moda Bake Shop
Reindeer Quilt25 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pm1 yard Jingle Christmas Crimson 1 yard Jingle Christmas Ice 2 yards Jingle Incline Cedar 1 yard Jingle Rejoice Cedar 5 Jingle charms packs 2 Bella Solid Chocolate charm packs 1 Very Merry Berry Panel To start open all the charm packs and separate the colors. Put all the greens together, all the reds together and so on. For the front of the quilt, you will only use the green squares, plus 4 red squares for the nose. There will be some leftover squares (which would make a great pillow or even another quilt top.) For the quilt top, you will need to trim 46 of the brown squares to 4.5″.
Dancing in the Stars23 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmFor as long as there have been people trying to find their way, there have been stars to guide them. Stars dance in the heavens weather we see them there or not. They warm the darkness of the night and fill us with hope. They kindle romance and inspire wonder. Janet Clare has captured it all in her new line, Nocturne. It seemed appropriate to create a quilt for this line using a classic "road to" block, however, a trip to the stars can not be taken on any ordinary road. For this quilt I have adapted "Road to Oklahoma" – given it a twist in the corners and created…
Sunburst Quilt21 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmHi, I'm Lauren from {flyawayquilts.com} and I'm excited to share this pattern today. If you haven't visited my blog before, head over to get in on a great giveaway. For this project, I'm using "Canyon" by Kate Spain. You can get the PDF version here: Sunburst. Let's get started! For this pattern, you'll need: – 12 fat quarters – 1 yard sashing fabric – 2 yards background fabric – 2/3 yards binding fabric – 2 yards of backing fabric From each fat quarter, cut: – 1 square measuring 6.5″ (for the…
Bella Solids at the Beach17 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmHave you had a chance to play with Moda's fun new tool – Palette Builder? I've been inspired by all of the Bella Solids loveliness here on the Bake Shop this summer so I decided to give it a whirl. I uploaded a favorite beach photo and with a little tweaking generated this wonderful, beachy palette of Bella Solids. If you'd like some guidance before starting with your own image, Carrie Nelson shared a post with her tips on the Cutting Table blog. Happy color play!
It's all Black & White Quilt15 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmHello again everyone! I'm super excited to share this quilt with you today. I love solids and use them frequently in my quilts. I am pleased to be a part of the Summer of Solids tutorials. Today's quilt is a super fast quilt made using three different strip sets. The thing I like best about this quilt is that you can make it with any colors as long as you have a light, medium and dark. Junior Jelly Roll in 3 different colors. You need a light, medium and a dark. I used Feather (127), Steel (184) and Charcoal (284) 3 1/2 yards backing of your choice. Start by opening your jelly…
How Does She
How Does She Make a Chocolate Banana Snack?30 Jul 2015 | 4:04 amHow Does She Make a Chocolate Banana Snack? Need a quick, easy and delicious snack? I know with summer here the kids are dying for me to make a special treat for them pretty much every day! These chocolate banana bites will be sure to save the day! Items needed: Bananas Melted Chocolate Peanut Butter Nuts Skewers Here's how it's done! Cut the bananas up and put them on the skewers. Dip in chocolate, spread on a little peanut butter then dip in nuts and that's it! Now you know How Does She Make a Chocolate Banana Snack! Follow us on YouTube for more great ideas! …
Costco Connection Cover!29 Jul 2015 | 8:34 pmThank You! We love you! You are the reason a little blog 6 years ago has turned into what is now HowDoesShe.com. Because it is fun to share good news with the people you love, we want to share something we are pretty excited about! About six weeks ago we were interviewed by Costco and did a quick photo shoot in hopes of landing the cover of the Costco Connection. Flash forward; The Costco Connection August 2015 edition is being delivered this week, and we are featured on the cover! The Costco Connection magazine is delivered to all Costco Members (executive and business) and has a circulation…
While You Were Hashtagging—Put the Phone Down29 Jul 2015 | 8:33 amI've noticed something lately that is alarming. I've seen it in myself, my friends, my family, and complete strangers. Let's back up only eight years to when Apple first introduced the iPhone. Before that, phones were dumb; they could call and text…that's about it. When smartphones started cropping up like like moles in that classic whack-a-mole game, we could hardly keep up. Look at all of the information now available at our very fingertips! Pioneers heading West on the Oregon trail could hardly fathom that only two generations into the future,…
Video Performance Treasure Hunt27 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amYour kids are adorable. They say the most hilarious things, they make you laugh, they're ridiculously cute, and it's so fun to hear them put things into their own words or watch them perform something they're proud of! You need those things on video! Years from now you'll be so glad you captured the funny little things they're doing now! Here's a fun way to spend some time outside when the weather is nice while capturing the cute things your kids are doing lately, on video! ______________________________________________ Start by making a list of some of the…
Fresh Grilled Corn and Cucumber Salsa24 Jul 2015 | 4:25 amWhat do you do when you spent the entire summer afternoon at the farmer's market buying loads of fresh goodness, and suddenly dinner time is looming? You make a fresh salsa to end all fresh salsas – a grilled corn and cucumber salsa, to be exact! This comes together SO quickly and tastes like summertime in a bowl. This recipe is a twist on pico de gallo – using many of the same ingredients, but incorporating a few of my favorite summer additions – corn on the cob, and cucumber! I think you're going to love it. Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, peeled, seeded, and…
Kirigami, a Stretchable Battery29 Jul 2015 | 12:49 amIn my last article we looked at options to make electronics more elastic and stretchable. But what about the batteries we need to energize stretchable electronics? Traditional batteries are far way from being elastic, to stretch even a tiny little bit. A possible solution for stretchable batteries comes from a team of researcher at the Arizona State University. Hanqing Jiang, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering together ASU students Zeming Song and Xu Wang got inspired by the ancient Japanese technique called Kirigami, of folding paper (Kirigami) to create a…
Flexible, Stretchable Electronics27 Jul 2015 | 3:39 amOne of the fundamental requirements in wearable electronics is to make it stretchable, flexible, elastic. Without this properties there is no way electronics can be integrated into clothing. Over the past years various research and development activities have been undertaken to master the stretchability of electronic elements, to make electronic systems conformal with the textile properties used for clothing. Many promising demonstrations have surfaced but up to this day there is no real 'go-to' solution when it comes to the integration of some electronic components into garments…
Safe Ride Cycling Jacket22 Jul 2015 | 3:04 amTwo students from Mexico's National Autonomous University have created a "Safe Ride" jacket to increase the lifespan of cyclists in their city. The "Safe Ride" jacket as they call their design is very similar to the mother of all turn signal jackets: The Turn-Signal Jacket invented by Leah Buechley in 2008. Personally I am surprised the Turn-Signal Jacket concept has not been picked up by bicycle apparel brands. Everyone is talking about how to increase road safety of bicycle riders but to walk ride the talk – nothing to be seen. The Turn-Signal jacket is such a brilliant…
Creative, Innovative Wearable Technology community17 Jul 2015 | 3:31 amWhile companies search for the next killer application in Wearable Technology a fast growing community of Makers, Students, Artists and home-brew creatives in the DIY community generate inspiring designs with wearable technologies. The advantage of Makers, Artists and home-brew enthusiasts is they do not have to consider cost, robustness of design and production limitation as designer and engineers have to consider in a corporate setting. It is important and essential for uncharted fields like Wearable Technology to have a playground, a experimental mindset, pioneers to test the waters so…
Wearable Power – are we there yet?14 Jul 2015 | 3:20 amThe short answer is – NO. Wearable Power is one of the hot topics for Wearable Electronic research and development. The dream for unlimited power on the go is as old as our relation with portable, personal and now wearable devices. A few years ago I have spend a considerable amount of time to hunt down wearable power and written articles about the latest, hottest and most promising developments. My recent search for news on wearable power developments did bring up some new, cool but highly unpractical developments. In theory, those designs might work under best world condition but…
idea chic
Join Idea Chíc's rewards program!26 Jul 2015 | 11:49 amJoin Idea Chíc's rewards program! Our small business keeps growing and mostly because of our repeat and referral customers. It is hard to express how much that means to us! We have been searching for a good rewards program that is easy and helpful to you. If you are registered on our site you already have "love notes" accumulating from your orders. Otherwise take a moment to join our rewards program. Details: 100 love notes are worth $1 Join our reward program and get 100 love notes Spend one dollar (USD) in our store and get 5 love notes Like our Facebook page and get 10…
It's Christmas in July at Idea Chíc!6 Jul 2015 | 1:15 pmIdea Chíc's Christmas in July sale is on! Save 20% on our entire online shop and Idea Chic on etsy too with discount code CHICXMASJULY at checkout! Filed under: Idea Chic
Idea Chic Christmas in July 20152 Jul 2015 | 12:54 pmMerry Christmas in July from Idea Chic! Use code CHICXMASJULY for 20% off the entire Idea Chic shop – custom / made to order included when ordered in July! Christmas, holiday cards, tags and other items printed on letterpress or flat. 2016 calendars available the second half of July! See the gifts for home collection for more chic gift ideas. Same offer and Christmas in July sale on our etsy shop! get ahead of the game with personalized Christmas cards or holiday party invitations. Filed under: Idea Chic
Summer Idea Chic Parcel Post Subscription26 Jun 2015 | 5:30 pmOur Summer Parcel Post subscribers have received! Happy summer! Want one? http://www.ideachic.netFiled under: Idea Chic
What a darling variation of our baby shower favors as requested by the #momtobe17 Jun 2015 | 4:31 pmFiled under: Idea Chic Tagged: baby, baby shower, favors
Inner Child Fun
Cool New Netflix Series for Kids31 Jul 2015 | 9:36 amLooking for a cool Netflix series for kids and tweens? Good news! Netflix recently released an exclusive new original series — Dreamworks Animations Dragons: Race to the Edge. Both of my kids enjoyed the How to Train Your Dragon books and movie series, so this new series was a big hit with them! I love that […]
Cardboard Crafts — Pretend Cookie Shop23 Jul 2015 | 3:59 pmOn hot Summer days one of the last things I want to do is turn on the oven to bake cookies. Fortunately, simple cardboard crafts are a great alternative to baking! These pretend cardboard cookies are decorated with pretend icing that is light and fluffy and pretend sprinkles too! These cardboard cookies are all the fun of baking without the […]
Coloring Books for Adults15 Jul 2015 | 8:55 pmColoring books for adults are popping up all over the place, and for good reason! The simple act of coloring can be relaxing and calm many over-schedule busy adults. For the last few months, these coloring books have been flying out of bookstores, many of them are selling out. I highly recommend these coloring books, […]
Summer Math Practice6 Jul 2015 | 12:06 pmThis idea for Summer Math practice is quick and easy to set up. The best part is that the kids can enjoy a bit of water play while practicing Math! A big thank you to our friends at Melissa & Doug for sponsoring today's creative learning activity. I set this up as an open invitation […]
Safari Crafts and Activities30 Jun 2015 | 7:05 amSafari crafts and activities are a great way to keep the kids entertained this Summer while learning lots of new things about animals and wildlife. A big thank you to our friends at Melissa & Doug for sponsoring our wild adventures while we celebrated "Safari Week" here at home! These safari crafts and activities are […]
Knitting for Charity: Easy, Fun and Gratifying
Go Insane! Enjoy the First of a 4-Part Series of Insane Free Knitting Patterns for Blankets30 Jul 2015 | 9:45 pmA friend of mine alerted me to this blanket, which must be one of the most insane items ever knitted. Behold: the Super Mario Brothers Blanket. The person who posted the photos of this blanket said that it took about 800 hours to knit this project, consuming a total of 6 years.
Delaware Head Huggers & Kozy Kovers for Kids: Knitting Charities Changing Lives in Delaware and Beyond26 Jul 2015 | 9:49 pmI've been a huge fan of Delaware Head Huggers for years. This is primarily because Robin Agar, its leader, is a talented knitting designer who often posts free chemo cap patterns on her blog, Knitting for Schnapps. I frequently link these in the Knitting Nuggets Newsletter because they're so cute.
Thrifty and Frugal Knitting Groups on Ravelry23 Jul 2015 | 9:20 pmHot off the heels of my All About Ravelry series, I hopped on Ravelry today because I was curious to see what kind of groups it might have available in reference to knitting frugally.
Head Huggers: A Knitting Charity Keeping Hairless Heads Warm Since 200119 Jul 2015 | 9:45 pmHead Huggers is a terrific organization that has been in operation since 2001. I was astonished to find that while it has been featured in the Knitting Nuggets Newsletter, it has never been featured here on this website. That changes now!
Knitting Confessions: Knitters Share Their Dark Secrets16 Jul 2015 | 9:45 pmSeveral months ago, I stumbled upon a list of "knitting confessions" at a message forum at Knitter's Review. I read the thread and was very entertained. I also started to feel a little less "alone" in some of the things that I did in my knitting life.
Dollar Store Crafts
Make Citrus Tea Towels31 Jul 2015 | 3:30 pmWe love a good tea towel project, and this one is particularly cute for summer! Sarah from Sarah Hearts used a clever combination of simple stamping and embroidery to make these fruity kitchen accessories. If tea towels aren't your thing, this motif would also be cute on a tote bag, a t-shirt, or any other fabric item that could use a bit of sprucing up! [how to make citrus tea towels] Project estimate: Tea towels, $1 and up Fabric paint, on hand or $1 and up Sponge, on hand or $1 Embroidery floss, on hand or $1 Total: $1 and up
Make a Pom Pom Ice Cream Cone Garland29 Jul 2015 | 9:00 amNational Ice Cream Month may be drawing to a close, but it's pretty much always a good time for ice cream so we are going to keep in celebrating until the very end! This fun ice cream garland from Karin and Freja at The Crafty Swedes very cleverly uses parts of a recycled egg carton to create cones - genius! Go grab all of your yarn scraps and you'll have your own adorable garland whipped up in a jiffy. [how to make a pom pom ice cream cone garland] Project estimate: Yarn, on hand or $1 and up Egg carton, on hand Paint, on hand or $1 and up Total: Free and up!
Make DIY Watercolor Washi Tape27 Jul 2015 | 11:51 amCan't find washi tape in the right colors to match your project? Then make your own! Laura at Paper & Pin used watercolor paints to make these pretty, unique tapes with a soft, ethereal quality. For different looks, you could use the same tape-making technique with Sharpies, colored pencils, or anything else you and your collection of art supplies can dream up! [how to make DIY watercolor washi tape] Project estimate: Tissue paper, on hand or $1 Double-sided tape, on hand or $1 and up Watercolor paints, on hand or $1 and up Total: Free and up!
Make Leather Feather Earrings24 Jul 2015 | 9:00 amLeather feathers - as fun to say as they are to wear! We love these chic, dangly earrings from Gina Michele. It's a great way to use up scraps of leather left over from other projects; if you don't happen to have any leather on hand, old leather garments from thrift stores are also a great source of materials for this project. If you like the leather feather look, you could also use this technique to make a necklace, or even to embellish items for your decor! [how to make leather feather earrings] Project estimate: Leather, on hand or $1 and up Chain, on hand or $1 Jewelry findings,…
Make Beach Ball Coasters22 Jul 2015 | 11:23 amI'm extremely fortunate to live in a town with a gorgeous, sandy beach, so beach-related decor is always a big hit around here. As such, I get a little obsessive sometimes about coastal and beach themed craft projects. But even if you don't live near the beach, you can bring a bit of whimsical, summer-y flare to your home with these cute beach ball coasters by Jamie at Paint the Gown Red. It's a great use for adhesive vinyl, especially of you are looking for a way to use it that doesn't require a cutting machine! [how to make beach ball coasters] Project estimate: Cork coasters, $1…
Phyllis Dobbs Blog
Start School with a School Days Quilt!14 Jul 2015 | 6:03 pmSchool will be starting before too much longer, but you have time to make this School Days Quilt for a special student in your life! This quilt is a great size for a child, 49 1/2″ x 59 1/2″ but is also easy to adjust the size for a larger … Continue reading
Gorgeous Quilts from Spring Quilt Market Minneapolis2 Jun 2015 | 11:57 amIn part two of my photos from the Spring International Quilt Market held in Minneapolis, I want to show you some of the beautiful quilts displayed. Sometimes a picture doesn't provide the detail that makes the quilt so spectacular so I took some close up detail photos that I'm showing with the quilt photo. This … Continue reading
Spring International Quilt Market in Minneapolis28 May 2015 | 1:57 pmI recently attended the Spring International Quilt Market in Minneapolis. As most of you probably know, it's the largest trade show for anything related to quilting – fabrics, patterns, notions, threads and more and is a kaleidoscope of colors. I took so many photos so am dividing my Quilt Market … Continue reading
Create a Wedding Gift – Dove and Heart Wedding Quilt!13 May 2015 | 5:17 amThe wedding "season" is arriving soon, but you still have plenty of time to create an heirloom wedding gift with this Dove and Heart Wedding Quilt pattern. This quilt is wall hanging size of 42″ x 42″ but is easy to increase the size if you want a larger quilt. … Continue reading
Arbor Window Quilt Pattern with Views of Trees14 Apr 2015 | 10:49 amI love trees and enjoy looking out my window at the woods and trees. This quilt catches the spirit of viewing trees through window panes. This quilt pattern. Arbor Window, is free beginning April 15, 2015 for the next two weeks by joining the April Quilt Dash Arbor Window, designed by … Continue reading
Scoutie Girl
Take A Road Trip30 Jul 2015 | 12:12 pmAt the start of this month, I took a road trip. Road trips make me nostalgic for my childhood, as we used to take them all the time when I was a kid. When I say road trip, I don't just mean a few hours in the car. I mean 8-12 hour days in the car over several days. When I was a kid, my mom would always check in with us and make sure we were taking it all in. As an adult, I find myself not wanting to sleep in the car, in fear of missing something. This most recent trip was a camping trip, and we drove through some of the prettiest stretch of road I've ever seen. Amazing glaciers,…
Creating Courage27 Jul 2015 | 4:00 amOne of the things I noticed when I jumped from the corporate world into running my own business was that I needed to build a new relationship with fear. For too long I didn't recognise when I was afraid. I ignored my body signals. I succumbed to defensive, fear based thinking. I convinced myself that what I was doing was necessary. The truth was it was a defensive reaction to my fears. Everything I produced needed to look and feel right. I was convinced that the details really did make all the difference. I worked with copywriters and made sure that what I created was as close to…
The Forbidden Topic…Talking Black & White in the Red, White, & Blue22 Jul 2015 | 4:00 amI spend a large percentage of my efforts blogging about communicating with others; I believe that improved awareness of self improves communication with others which in turn improves your relationships. In America, we have a large taboo around discussing white and black relations in a realistic manner. The news brings it up in sensational stories to "stir the pot" and question equality. But rarely do you hear conversations among your friends discussing black-white relations in the real world…your own backyard. That is why I invited Angel Davis to co-author this blog with me; below…
Discovering the Impressionists21 Jul 2015 | 4:00 amThe Artist's Garden in Argenteuil (A Corner of the Garden with Dahlias), 1873, by Claude Monet (National Gallery of Art, Washington: Gift of Janice H. Levin, in Honor of the 50th Anniversary of the National Gallery of Art) Recently, I introduced you to Northern Lights: Scandinavian Design, now showing at Philadelphia Museum of Art. Today I am thrilled to tell you about the blockbuster exhibit, Discovering the Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel and the New Painting. This exhibit was previously showcased at the National Gallery in London and Musee du Luxenbourg and Grand Palais in…
Northern Lights: Scandinavian Design17 Jul 2015 | 4:00 am"PH Artichoke" Lamp, Designed 1957, Designed by Poul Henningsen, Danish, 1894‑1967, Brushed copper, chrome‑plated steel, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Gift of Collab: The Group for Modern and Contemporary Design at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Scandinavian design is renowned for its functional form and clean lines. The Northern Lights: Scandinavian Design exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art begins with a historic look at the underpinnings of this design movement, originating in Paris at the 1900 World's Fair, up through present day (including Minecraft video…
Wee Folk Art
Learn to Knit Afghan :: Block Ten31 Jul 2015 | 5:09 amWorking with the Diagnoal Chain Pattern The diagonal chain is another fun mosaic pattern. The main tip I want to share is be sure to slip as if to purl unless a pattern says otherwise. This is true for all the mosaic patterns. More Blocks in the Series Introductory Post Block Nine: Horizontal Chain Pattern Block Eleven: (coming soon) Learn to Knit Afghan Project This series covers several different knitting stitches using the Learn-to-Knit Afghan book by Barbara Walker. Whether you are a true beginner or an intermediate knitter, you can take your knitting to the next level working through…
Tissue Paper Stained Glass Raindrops30 Jul 2015 | 4:39 amI am a fan of rain. I can honestly say there have only been a handful of days in my life when I felt like rain ruined the day for me. I love the sound of rain. I love the smell of the earth after a rain. I love to be caught in a summer shower… it makes me feel like I am 8 years old again! I love it when Mother Nature takes care of watering my plants and I can simply whisper a heartfelt "thank you". As I said… I'm a fan of rain! Of course I live in an area where we seldom have problems with flooding and there is no monsoon season! Mostly, rain is welcomed and we…
Springs Bs Second Edition & Facebook Homeschool Group29 Jul 2015 | 7:32 amBirds, Bunnies, Buds, Butterflies, & Bees We are happy to announce that the Spring Bs Second Edition is now available. This means that all three of our Simple Seasons core curriculum guides are now available in print and tablet ready formats. Yay! This project has been several years in the making. We are currently working on updating our 9 week summer unit Puddles & Ponds and plan to also offer our 4 week Advent Activities unit in the same print format. If you are not already familiar with our Simple Seasons units we encourage you to check them out now. I originally wrote Simple…
Leapin' Lizard Coloring Page28 Jul 2015 | 5:58 amWhen my children were young, actually before I even had my third, my parents owned a condo in Florida and would spend several months there each winter. It was lovely going down there for a week each winter to soak up the sun and play on the beach. After I put the wee ones down for a nap each afternoon, I'd go sunbath out on the lanai. It should have been a delight… resting… sunning… reading… HOWEVER crawling up the walls, stretched out on any horizontal surf and jumping from one destination to another were the ever present green anoles. Now, we don't often…
August Appliques27 Jul 2015 | 4:18 amTo me August is the most "summery" month of the year. Traditionally, our temperatures are the highest, we get the least amount of rain, and we always try to get in a couple "long weekends" to fully enjoy the last lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. By the end of August I'll be ready for summer to end, and I'll be looking forward to my favorite season, autumn, but for the next few weeks, I still want to live in the moment, and soak up all the sun and fun that I can. Our August appliques reflect some iconic summer scenes. To be honest, these are NOT things we…
Paper and Stitch
7 DIYs to Try This Weekend31 Jul 2015 | 5:07 amThis week was a fun one, with a couple of shoots that included a whole lot of peaches (sneak peek here) and a field trip to a working farm outside of the city. Which you may have seen a glimpse of over on Snapchat (follow me @brittnimehlhoff). Have you ever been to a fruit and veggie farm before? It was so amazing. I think I could have stayed forever...the stress literally melts away out there. It was just a day trip though. And I'm back at home, getting ready for the weekend (yay Friday!) with this week's 7 DIYs to try... 1. sugarcane necklace DIY from For the Makers 2. watermelon papaya rum…
A New Take on Chicken and Waffles: Homemade Chicken Salad Waffle Sandwiches30 Jul 2015 | 5:09 amAlright chicken and waffles has been done 101 times, but it's because the combo is kind of delicious. Right? So, what if we take that combo and kind of turn it on it's head a little and make it a chicken salad waffle sandwich. You with me on this one? Or have I gone crazy? This may seem like a strange combo, but I'm pretty sure that if you give it a go, you'll totally love it. So, let's get to the recipe! Ingredients: - waffles (homemade or store bought) - lettuce - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked) - 1 cup pecan pieces, toasted - 3 cups of red seedless grapes - 4 stalks of…
Don't Blink, It's Pink! The Color That Just Won't Go Away29 Jul 2015 | 10:09 amBelieve me, I've tried, but I just can't shake this pink phase that I've been going through lately. Design-wise, dusty pinkish tones are still my fave. And no matter how many times I try to suppress those Pepto-Bismol vibes, they keep coming back up. So, I figure, why fight it. One day, I'll wake up and be completely over it. But today isn't that day. So for now, let's just go through a few reasons why pink is still kind of the best... 1. (above) Super tall cactus on pink from Hannah Klemm 2. Pink and Periwinkle from Aleksandra Kingo 3. Pink + pineapples. Not a bad combo. 4. Styling (pink)…
Shout It from the Rooftop: 4 DIY Tips for Summer Entertaining (on a Rooftop)28 Jul 2015 | 5:09 amOne of the things that I love most about our home right now is sadly something that has been underutilized up to this point. And as we near the halfway point of summer, I couldn't bear to let it go unused any longer. So what is this space that I'm talking about? Our rooftop patio. It's on the top level, right next to my office, and is sort of perfect for entertaining. So why the heck haven't we used it yet? I have absolutely no idea. Other than the crazy weather (it's been either excessively cold or insanely hot since we've been in ATL). Which now that I think about, I can and will blame for…
Sweet Snack: Homemade Froyo + Waffle Cones27 Jul 2015 | 5:09 amI think it's pretty clear at this point, that, around here, I'm a pretty big fan of sweets. Sometimes though, I just want to hit the reset button (ever so slightly) and grab something a little healthier. I mean, I still want to eat chocolate, I haven completely fallen off the wagon. But something on a smaller scale that I can switch out pretty easily as a healthier option for those sweet treats that are my usual go-tos. Like froyo instead of ice cream. So, I partnered with ALOHA, a totally vegan line of whole food powders and superfood chocolate (!!!), to put together 3 frozen yogurt…
Factory Direct Craft Blog
How to Make a Rustic Mason Jar Toothbrush Holder31 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amThis DIY takes less than a minute to make, leaving you with a cute and functional piece of decor for your bathroom. Click here for the how-to and video tutorial {{ This is only a small sample and summary of my blogs post. Please visit my site for pictures, full links and content! }}
DIY No Sew Burlap Silverware Holder30 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amQuick and easy to make, this is a no-sew project, and you'll have several made up in no time! Click here for the how-to {{ This is only a small sample and summary of my blogs post. Please visit my site for pictures, full links and content! }}
DIY Minnie Mouse Pom Pom Hair Clips29 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amThese adorable pom pom hair clips with bows are reminiscent of that famous girl mouse. Click here for the how-to {{ This is only a small sample and summary of my blogs post. Please visit my site for pictures, full links and content! }}
DIY Felt Pen and Marker Holder28 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amPerfect for the budding artist in your life, this handy pen or pencil holder will keep your supplies organized in style! Click here for the how-to and video tutorial {{ This is only a small sample and summary of my blogs post. Please visit my site for pictures, full links and content! }}
DIY Flower Tea Lights27 Jul 2015 | 11:30 amThe petals provide a romantic, beautiful glow...and when the party is over, simply flip the switch to turn off the light! Click here for the how-to {{ This is only a small sample and summary of my blogs post. Please visit my site for pictures, full links and content! }}
Just Something I Made
Attaching Shelf Jars and FREE Dennison-Style Labels20 Jul 2015 | 4:38 pmWhile cleaning the garage over the weekend I happened on a collection of jars I'd tucked away for future use. (Hey…It's the future!) And I can always use more crafty storage in the studio. Jars work so perfectly to show off the stored contents. I find when I can see my supplies I'm much more apt to use them as I tend to forget some of the supplies and materials I have stored in drawers and boxes. I decided to attach into the dead space found on the underside of existing studio shelves. I simply drilled pilot holes into the lids, double-stick taped the lids into place under the…
Vintage Album Bird Images7 Jul 2015 | 10:01 amHow do you keep your creative juices flowing? Sometimes when I'm longing for new ideas I search for old inspiration, and visit my local antiques stores. Yesterday's trip proved quite successful as I happened upon four separate pages taken from a vintage photo album. Each page rich in colorful, detailed bird illustrations.I scanned the pages and used Photoshop to touch up stains and blemishes, and fill the inner photo areas. You can help yourself to each image below by clicking to enlarge and save. Use for collage, scrapbooking, cardmaking, digital work, even your own album pages. (But,…
General Store Inspiration: Mercantile Interior Photo Tour12 May 2015 | 5:27 pmIf you've seen my workshop studio, Inspired Barn, in magazines, online, or in person, it's likely pretty obvious where my number-one inspiration comes from- early general stores and mercantiles. Photo courtesy of Captain Simos Returns. I've long been attracted to photographs showcasing proud shopkeepers and customers posed within tidy, well-stocked emporiums that stocked everything from overalls and tobacco to fabrics and soaps. Photo courtesy of Dean Joseph Fine Art and Antiques. Counters, shelves, cases, drawers and bins filled with neatly arranged and stacked goods, much of which…
Inspired Barn Video Production2 May 2015 | 11:17 amLast November I began talks with F+W, a Content + eCommerce Company, about creating an exciting new series of Inspired Barn craft video episodes and accompanying kits. The projects would feature home décor projects, with videos and kits made available online through their Interweave Store. I've always known that videos would be the very best way to demonstrate steps for recreating my original projects. And F+W being a reputable media company well versed in the craft and hobby industry, of course I said YES! Though I've never done video, I'd been building up my courage and was ready to…
Vintage-Style Egg Co. Stencil Kitchen Art12 Mar 2015 | 3:37 pmI've become a bit obsessed with stencils- designing and cutting my own on a Silhouette Cameo. I have a list a mile long of creative ideas I plan to try with them. I'm also experimenting with stencil tools when not spraying paint or ink, such as pouncers, sponges, and stencil brushes, including a couple of antique railroad stencil brushes I picked up at an antiques store that work beautifully on flat hard surfaces!Today I pulled out one of my 48 by 40 brand small pallet canvas and went to work on a decorative piece for our kitchen trying out a basic craft store stencil brush. I painted one…
Art Of Crafts | RSS Feed
Grow Your Handmade Business With Pinterest26 Jul 2015 | 3:26 pmPinterest can be such a hugely valuable site for driving traffic to your creative website, craft blog or handmade marketplace. Therefore on the 12th August I am running a webinar on 'Market Your Business With Pinterest' which will dive into much more depth on making the platform effective for your business. For this launch the price is just $9 but places are limited so register now if you would like to join me. To find out full details head over to the sister site to Art of Crafts Cartwheels Across The Sky. Hope to see you there!
Two Jewelry Making Books Up For Grabs in the Giveaway16 Jul 2015 | 10:17 amJuly is jewelry making month on the blog and we are kicking it off with a giveaway – with two fab books up for grabs. First, I'm going to introduce both of them and then you can scroll down to the bottom of the page to see how to enter. Paracord Jewelry by Linda Peterson kindly provided by RPS Books. Compendium of Beading Techniques by Jean Power kindly provided by Search Press. T & Cs Before you enter please pop over and read the T&Cs for the giveaway here. I have 1 copy of each book to give away and they will go to two different winners (so each person will win 1 book…
Facebook Giveaway: The Crafter's Guide to Patterns24 Jun 2015 | 6:46 amI have a giveaway running over on Facebook which offers you the chance to win one copy of this beautiful book. You need to enter on Facebook for this one and you can do so at this link. Hurry over to enter as it closes on the 30th June. Good Luck
How to Grow Your Handmade Business22 Jun 2015 | 2:09 amIf you want to grow your handmade or creative business it comes down to just three key areas. It's how I've grown this blog and they are the three steps which allowed me to walk away from a full-time job to do what I love - namely writing for you guys :-) When we hear about marketing it can seem really complex - as though there are a million steps you need to put into place to make a sale, but it really doesn't have to be like that. Instead here are the three things you need. You need a blog to add fresh content to the search engines regularly - so that you get found You need to understand…
Free Online Sewing Classes17 Jun 2015 | 4:28 amAs this is sewing month on the blog I thought I would bring you some free sewing classes today from Craftsy. Craftsy offers a range of online courses in all sorts of subjects – and even their free classes offer a lot of value. Check out the ones below and just click the image to be taken through to the Craftsy site for some more information on the class.
Skip To My Lou
DIY Wall Art31 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amHi there! I'm Joy from CreativeMamma.com and I am super excited to share this DIY Wall Art it is a fun summer art project that's great for both kids and grown ups! Supplies: Canvas Acrylic paint White acrylic paint Reposition-able vinyl letters Brushes, cars, toys, whatever you want to use to paint with (we also used various kitchen tools) Step one: Choose your saying or quote and position the letters onto your canvas. Make sure to press the letters down firmly, so they don't come off when you start painting. Step Two: Get your paints, brushes and toys/tools and start…
Yard Yahtzee30 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amMy kiddos love games. The bigger they get, the bigger they want their games! We were getting ready for a family event and I thought it would be super fun to create a DIY Yard Yahtzee game with large dice for the family to enjoy! This is a great way to gather everyone together for a little fun this summer. The dice are super easy to make, I whipped up 2 sets in a couple of hours. They are simple 4x4x4 blocks of wood that are faux stained with BB Frösch Chalk Paint. When they aren't being used to play games, they make great decor for your home. Here's your materials list… 12…
Washi Tape Light Switch Cover29 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amI love making handmade gifts and so does my daughter! This Washi Tape Light Switch Cover is a quick and easy no mess idea that costs less than a couple of dollars to make. Children will have fun making these decorative light switch covers for all their friend's rooms. For more kids crafts check out this diy invisible ink tutorial. All you need is a light switch cover, washi tape, foam brush and mod podge. Have your child check out their friend's room on the sly to know if they need a light switch cover for one, two or more switch openings. Also have them notice the colors of…
Naturally Homemade Watercolor Paints28 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amHello Skip to My Lou readers! I'm Ashley Pahl from She Makes a Home. I'm a work-at-home mom with two girls: one will be entering first grade in the fall, and the other is just starting kindergarten. We're home together in the summer, and rarely does a week go by without finding fruit-stained shirts in the wash. It was the day I watched my girls snacking on sweet cherries with red lips and fingertips that I wondered – what would it be like to paint with berries? Let's make Naturally Homemade Watercolor Paints! I know what you're thinking: isn't it…
Made by you Monday27 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amSummer is in full swing, have you tried any of these summer hacks? The baby powder one really works! If you are getting ready to go on a cruise this year these tips for packing tips are a must! It's Monday show us what you've got. It is time to link up your crafty goodness! Please don't forget to link back! — a text link at the bottom of your post, or link somewhere on your blog is okay! Don't miss a thing! Sign up to get crafty ideas, recipes, sewing tutorials and more delivered right to your inbox. Follow Skip to My Lou on FB and Google+ to find out…
iHanna's Blog
Art Journal Peek: Act as if…22 Jul 2015 | 2:30 pmToday let's take another peek into my art journal, shall we? It's just one spread but with a few photos of the details. You know I like to go in close and zoom in on the details, weather it is flowers in nature or words on a page. I like that saying that proclaims that if you act as if, you will be become that way – in a positive way. That's why I wrote it on this page, just as a little note to myself… Act as if! Act as if you're a wealthy [wo]man, rich already, and then you'll surely become rich. Act as if you have unmatched confidence and then…
Doodeling in the Ocean19 Jul 2015 | 1:10 pmSmall deeds done are better than great deeds planned. Peter Marshall This small island is called Grinda, it has some rental cabins, a camping ground, two places to eat and one little shop/coffee place for boat tourists to stock up on frozen food and shampoo I guess. We went to a place called Backfickan, just on the water. I had a delicious hamburger, and then a coffee to go – because now it was time to explore… Well, not explore really. Just walk around, snap photos, admire the swan family's super cute kids , and to take a look at the beautiful fauna… Love wild…
Stockholm from the Waterfront18 Jul 2015 | 7:07 amAsking ourselves, 'Where am I right now?' gives us a chance to step outside the internal dialogue for a moment of peace. Look around you, take a deep breath and notice what you see, hear and feel. Present moment awareness is the point of power and choice. It frees us from our compulsive thoughts. Laura Harvey If you find yourself in the capital of Sweden on a hot summer day, I suggest you head out to the archipelago. Since Stockholm is built on water the archipelago is close and you can go with any of the ferries in the city. My goal for the past three years has been to head out there at…
Inspiration | 5 Pretty Craft Ideas11 Jul 2015 | 2:10 amI kid you not, but I actually still love to do craft. I have a knitting project, a hexagon project and a few embroidery ideas here for sure, but most of all a whole slew of paper craft projects going on. It's just not visible in the blog right now. Once my knitting project is finished, I will take photos and show you the wonders of it I promise. I would love to sew more, marble, wood work and cook something up in the kitchen, hence a link collection for inspiration was curated and set up. It's a small one, with only five great ideas – but all of them worth checking out if…
Art Journal Peek: Endless possibilities8 Jul 2015 | 1:00 pmAn art journal gives you endless possibilities to be creative. There are always new, blank pages that is waiting around the corner – waiting for us to draw, paint, collage, create art or mess up. It's a kind of magic that is always there for us when we need it, even on dark nights when only the stars are shining… I like the messy pages just as much as the more artful ones. Sometimes I leave what others would call "an art journal background" as is. I call it abstract. I call it finished because I feel like it. I call it a cloudy sky or the messy place where I feel…
Happybird's Crafting Haven
DIY Easy and Gorgeous Personalized Angel Ornaments!26 Jul 2015 | 9:06 amClick on the following link to see my full YouTube tutorial: https://youtu.be/0F5wfi-X_ZI I purchased my filigree butterfly connectors for the angel's wings at http://www.ButterBeeScraps.com Make this lovely lightweight angel for someone you love and care about! You can purchase scrapbooking letters and attach the person's first initial on the angel's body with Mod Podge Super
Make A Beautiful & Easy Beaded Star Of Bethlehem Ornament!26 Jul 2015 | 8:51 amClick on the following link to see my full YouTube tutorial: https://youtu.be/uYKQRBl12t4 This beautiful little ornament is lightweight because it is made of pipe cleaners and acrylic beads! This is so easy to make and looks lovely on your Christmas tree! Be sure to catch my full YouTube tutorial! I purchased my 25mm PADDLE WHEEL beands and 8mm ROUND beads from the following Ebay
DIY Beautiful Little Nature Ornament For Your Christmas Tree!26 Jul 2015 | 8:45 amClick on the following link to see my full tutorial on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0h9TnMiaIFY This little nature ornament is sooo easy to make! I love the fact that it's extremely lightweight and won't weigh your tree branches down as well. See how easy and inexpensive it is to make this little guy by watching my full tutorial on YouTube. Materials Needed: Medium/Large Faux Leaf Clothes
DIY Beautiful and Easy Rhinestone Domino Pendant Necklaces!26 Jul 2015 | 8:39 amClick on the following link to see my full YouTube tutorial: https://youtu.be/RP0WXjV8UCE I made these cute and easy domino necklaces from Dollar Tree dominos and rhinestone chain! These are so much fun to make and the beautiful rhinestone chain really sparkles!These would make great Christmas gifts for any teen girl so be sure to check out my YouTube tutorial! Materials Needed: 1 box of
DIY Cute Sweater Jams for Christmas Gifts!26 Jul 2015 | 8:30 amClick on the following link to see my full tutorial on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nxUnLkk7uxw If you are short on time during the holidays, this is a great project to work on during the Summer to store away for Christmas. Sweater jams! During the holidays, pick up extra Christmas socks from the Dollar Tree and the dollar bins at Target and stow them away for the Summer. You can either
Road To 1000 – Sheep Farm Felt27 Jul 2015 | 8:21 amSheep Farm Felt Tell us your story! My parents met in a living Colonial history village, my mom-a weaver and spinner, my dad-a woodcarver. After repeatedly fixing her loom (he was also the one sneaking in her shop early and breaking it), they fell in love, got married, and had 3 daughters. (The middle one being the most adorable, of course.) We lived in Port Republic, a small town in South Jersey where my dad is the mayor and where generations of my family have lived since the early 1600′s. When my sisters and I were 2, 4, and 6, we had a house fire and lost everything we owned. The…
Handmade Soap Recipes, Supplies, and Ingredients27 Jul 2015 | 7:11 amHave you considered making your own handmade soap? You need to make sure you have the right soap recipe, supplies, and ingredients. Here are a few great recipes I found while browsing through Etsy. 'Handmade Soap Recipes and Supplies' Vanilla Latte Melt and Pour … Idealme $4.95 Natural Cleaner Dishwasher D… HealthNote $2 Laundry Soap made with our f… GrettasGoats $10 Easy cold process soap formu… BidwellBotanic… $5 Melt & Pour Soap Recipes MysticKitchen $3.99 Natural Soap Making: Cold Pr… TheNerdyFarmWi… $9.99 How To Make Soap…
What Should a Creative Business Owner Blog About – Part 116 Jul 2015 | 7:47 amHere is the bottom line. If you are looking to create a blog that is going to help your creative business grow, you are going to have to invest some time. I not talking about the time it takes to tweak your blog to make it look good, with banners, colors and widgets. In the next few articles I will be covering topics and article ideas you can use to help grow your blog and drive traffic to your shop. 1. Talk about you and your products: It's your blog, you made it, and you love it. It is not hard to talk about stuff you love. your latest creation a custom order you made new product…
How to Make a Living Selling What You Make10 Jul 2015 | 8:17 amHow to Make a Living Selling What You Make is your complete guide to building a thriving handmade business. { http://shrsl.com/?~96vi }Megan Auman is a maker and educator who has built a multi-faceted business around her passion for great design. Her jewelry line is sold in stores across the US and in this bootcamp she'll teach you the recipe to her success. You'll learn how to: *Generate revenue from the beginning while balancing longer term growth *Find the best and worst revenue streams for your products *Set targets, create profitable pricing, and evaluate market demand *Deepen…
The Last Branding Touch Point: How To Make The Most Of It22 Jun 2015 | 7:10 amThe Last Branding Touch Point: How To Make The Most Of It There are many benefits to selling on Etsy. One of them is the opportunity for great personal interaction with your customers which can leave a great impression and increases the chance that they will think of your store for future purchases. I do think that the buyer of handmade products expects a higher level of personalized interaction/service than the average consumer, it is part of the mystique and draw to this type of purchase. I have made many purchases on Etsy and the level of engagement has ranged to no contact at all to very…
Neural Knitworks: knitted and crocheted dendrites, axons and ganglia14 Jul 2015 | 4:12 amWant to contribute to a collaborative art/science project about mind and brain health? Neural Knitworks is a collaborative project about mind and brain health based on the principle that yarn craft helps keep our brains and minds sharp, engaged and healthy. "Neurons are electrically excitable cells of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. The billions of neurons in your body connect to each other in neural networks. They receive signals from every sense, control movement, create memories and form the neural basis of every thought." Scientifically informed knit, crotchet…
Skylanders Sprocket Cosplay by Jennifer Lori9 Jul 2015 | 4:50 amWow. Wow. Wow! Jennifer Lori sent me these fabulous pics of her absolutely off-the-hook Sprocket costume, made especially for last weekend's ComicCon in Montreal. Here's her breakdown: "I cosplayed as Sprocket from the kids' video game series Skylanders, and made everything except the black pants/shirt. The wig is the only thing that had an existing pattern (it's a very modified, doubled and stuffed Hallowig from knitty.com) and I made up everything else. The wig is knit, the goggles are plastic canvas with real lenses, the vest is knit, the gauge is plastic…
Flameless Tea Light Coasters8 Jul 2015 | 6:48 pmOh boy, do I love a challenge. When the folks at Rams Wavy Candles invited me to review their Flameless Tea Lights, I knew I had to up my game and really learn how to make a crochet circle. In my head, I imagined these amazing little tea lights coupled with perfectly round yarn-based coasters. So I practiced and practiced and I think it works. I tested a ton of tutorials and the best ones for me were from Lisa Auch (making the circle) and How to Crochet a Heart (perfecting the magic circle). In terms of the lights, it's a no-brainer. The fun factor is high, the packaging is great and…
Your Moment of Zen with London Kaye Crochet …7 Jul 2015 | 2:07 amJon Stewart for President! You can follow the adventures of London Kaye Crochet on Instagram at @londonkayecrochet. Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)Share this awesomesauce:
Yolandi2 Jul 2015 | 3:27 amPortrait of Die Antwoord's Yolandi — crocheted by Katika. Amazing, isn't it? Catch Katika on Facebook and Etsy. Rating: 10.0/10 (2 votes cast)Share this awesomesauce:
AllCrafts Free Crafts Update
Pebble Covered Bucket Tutorial31 Jul 2015 | 11:50 amAdd a designer touch to the backyard with this Pebble Covered Bucket Tutorial. It looks so expensive but, you can make this! Find more DIY ideas on Garden Crafts You might also like: Recycled Rubber Boot Flower Pot Candle Planters DIY Yard and Garden Crafts Stacked Planter Garden Project DIY Concrete Garden Globes
Trail to Paducah Free Quilt Pattern31 Jul 2015 | 11:12 amYou have to love a great big star quilt like this Trail to Paducah Free Quilt Pattern. It's so dynamic and would like so different depending on your fabric choices. Added to Free Quilt Patterns You might also like: Quilted Spring Flower Table Mat Snowman Mug Rug Tutorial Quilted Fall Placemats Pattern Butterfly Baby Quilt Pattern Learn to Quilt – 100+ Tutorials
Ocean Style Chain Link Necklace Tutorial30 Jul 2015 | 9:22 amLearn some great jewelry-making techniques with this Ocean Style Chain Link Necklace Tutorial. I love following along with detailed instructions like these because I can later adapt them to my own ideas. Added to 100+ Free Necklace Tutorials You might also like: DIY Seashells Jewelry Set Free Wirework Jewelry Online Class 100+ Free Necklace Tutorials Crochet Chain Link Necklace Tutorial Book Page Necklace Tute
Pocket Wall Caddy Sewing Tutorial28 Jul 2015 | 7:52 amGet some much-needed storage in your craft room with this Pocket Wall Caddy Sewing Tutorial Great for scrap fabric or some random fat quarters. Added to Free Sewing Patterns You might also like: Felt Locker Caddy Sewing Tutorial Car Craft Caddy Sewing Pattern 500+ Free Baby Crafts Quick and Easy Sunglasses Case Sewing Pattern Summertime Pocket Placemats Sewing Tutorial
Free Clutch Purse Crochet Pattern27 Jul 2015 | 4:49 amPlanning a glamorous evening out or a special occasion? Then you need to make this Free Clutch Purse Crochet Pattern. It's so pretty and elegant. A nice clutch just works better when you're all dressed up! Added to 150+ Free Purse Crochet Patterns You might also like: Crochet Mini Purse Free Pattern Felted Fox Bag Free Crochet Pattern Pencil Case Crochet Pattern Crochet Hobo Bag Pattern Crocheted Flower Purse Pattern
CraftStylish - Sewing category featured posts
How to Sew a Tray Cover23 Jul 2015 | 12:10 pmPosted by Deana This is the kind of quick and easy project that makes me feel like I am living the dream: sweetly pampered and lavishly lux.
How to Make a Two-Color A-Line Tee Skirt21 Jul 2015 | 10:05 pmPosted by leethal You won't need a pattern or any major sewing experience to cut two recycled T-shirts into panels and sew them into a super-simple and comfortable skirt!
How to Create a Retro Cocktail Apron7 Jul 2015 | 10:00 pmPosted by JenniferSauer I can't think of anything cuter and easier to stitch up than a perky cocktail apron a la Lucille Ball. It makes a great accessory for entertaining (what a conversation starter!) or the perfect unique gift all for under $10 and less than half an hour of your sewing time.
How To Make Customized Occasion T's7 Jul 2015 | 7:30 amPosted by CalPatch Any DIY or green celebration can benefit from upcycled commemorative T-shirts, and making them can even be part of the festivities!
Don't Miss Your Chance to Enter the 2015 SewStylish Spring Fashion Challenge14 May 2015 | 4:25 amPosted by EvamarieGomez Share your spring-inspired garments by 11:59 p.m. EST, May 29, for a chance to win a $100 gift card to Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.
Handmade journals, photo albums and guest books | Blue Roof Designs
I've been quiet…29 Jul 2015 | 12:13 pmAs you've probably noticed, I haven't written any blog posts over the last month. Things have been tough lately. I'm a private person and try not to make a habit of talking about my personal problems on my blog, but I'm going to make an exception in this case. 2 1/2 weeks ago, my dad passed away. It's a big loss and I'm pretty heartbroken. My dad I've been lucky in that my dad was always supportive of my creative work. In fact, I've often joked that I was destined to become an artist because my dad's name was Art. I'm thankful that I…
Medieval on the Go: The Girdle Book with Karen Hanmer – Day 327 Jun 2015 | 7:00 pmToday was the third day of Karen's workshop and we were busy! We started out by drilling holes in our boards – these would be used later for lacing on our text blocks. Next, we frayed out the ends of the cords on our text blocks to remove lumps. We used a 1/4″ chisel to carve channels in the front and back of our cover boards – the cords on our text blocks will rest in these after lacing in. I find something very relaxing about chiseling. We rubbed paste into the cords and twisted the tips into points to help us lace them into the boards. After the lacing was…
Medieval on the Go: The Girdle Book with Karen Hanmer – Day 226 Jun 2015 | 7:15 pmI realized that I forgot to show you a picture of Karen's awesome resource booklet for the girdle book workshop. It's actually rather insane – check this out: 28 pages of girdle-y goodness! We started the day off by sewing primary endbands on our textblocks. We stiffened up the core cord with PVA to make it easier to work with. It took a few stitches for me to get the hang of the sewing process, but I really enjoyed it. I could do more of these! Don't be fooled by the images – this was not a quick process. It took 2+ hours to complete. The next step was to add a…
Medieval on the Go: The Girdle Book with Karen Hanmer – Day 125 Jun 2015 | 8:00 pmI just finished my first day of Karen Hanmer's workshop, Medieval on the Go: The Girdle Book. This is the third workshop I've taken with Karen at the Focus on Book Arts conference (not all this time around). I guess I like her! The girdle book is a bit of an odd duck of a book that makes a lot of sense – the structure has a leather extension off the bottom of it (like a tail) that allows the owner to attach it to his or her belt. Karen told us that there are only 23 known examples of girdle books in existence and those date from 1400 to 1550. Although the book we're…
GBW Standards of Excellence Seminar6 Jun 2015 | 6:00 amThe Guild of Book Workers recently opened up registration for their annual Seminar on Standards of Excellence in Hand Bookbinding. The conference is held in a different location every year and offers presentations by masters in the field of book and paper arts. In addition, the event includes tours of nearby binderies, libraries, and other book arts-related businesses. This year the seminar is being held in Cleveland, Ohio (U.S.) on October 15 – 17. This year's presentations look great – here's the lineup (from the GBW website): The Devil is in the Details with…
New Shop Sample: Hitchhiker in Koigu30 Jul 2015 | 6:07 amLast week, Kathy finished knitting Martina Behm's Hitchhiker Scarf in Koigu KPPPM color P839-67. It's so much fun to play with different combinations of Koigu yarn that I sometimes forget how beautiful a piece is in just one colorway. The shades of blue and purple look like an Impressionist painting. Hitchhiker is a shallow triangle made in garter stitch, so the knitting is easy. It's stepped edge is made by binding off stitches – also easy. You don't need to count stitches, just bind off all stitches when you have the length you want. Kathy's version is 60…
Learn to Felt with Artfelt!28 Jul 2015 | 6:15 amLearn to use Artfelt with Chuck Wilmesher of Skacel Collection on Sunday, September 13 from 12-2pm. The cost is $25 and includes a kit to make one of three projects: an eyeglass case, a cellphone or camera case, or a mini catchall. Artfelt uses a patented paper for a new and easier way felt. It's not needle felting, wet felting, or fulling – and you can make anything from thin scarves to thick trivets. Chuck will walk you through the process and you'll be given instructions to finish at home. Because Artfelt doesn't involve knitting or crocheting, this is a great class…
Hikoo Yarn Tasting22 Jul 2015 | 9:11 amJoin us Saturday, September 12 from 2-4pm for a yarn tasting featuring Hikoo Yarns. We'll sample 5 yarns – Simplicity, SimpliWorsted, CoBaSi, Kenzie, and Zumi – with Addi knitting needles and crochet hooks. Chuck Wilmesher of Skacel Collection, Hikoo's creator and Addi's distributor, will be our guide. He's bringing us yarn samples, garments to see and feel, and pattern suggestions for each of the yarns. Chuck learned to knit in 2007 and has been knitting ever since. He left corporate life in Los Angeles (where he worked marketing toys for a large…
Brooklyn Tweed Introduces 5 New Shades15 Jul 2015 | 12:12 pmBrooklyn Tweed introduces five new colors to Shelter and Loft today: Cinnabar, Bale, Tartan, Flannel & Tallow. I hardly feel like I've exhausted the possibilities of the existing 32 shades, but who can resist more colors! To give you a sense of the new shades in action, I grouped them with some of the existing ones. Camper, Long Johns, and Cinnabar Plume, Wool Socks, and Cinnabar Almanac, Flannel, and Faded Quilt Fauna, Hayloft, and Bale Fauna, Hayloft, Bale, and Tartan All five new shades are in-store and online now – come plan your next project!
Independence Day 2015 Sale – 15% off Everything!2 Jul 2015 | 8:52 amWhether you're going to the beach or the mountains or just staying home, there's nothing like having a new project – or two – at your side! We're at the height of summer, so there's plenty of time for a top in a cool cotton or a new shawl in a beautiful hand dyed fingering weight yarn. If you're really on top of things (and I'm not, though I wish I was), get a jump on your holiday gift knitting and save at the same time! Everything in-store & online is 15% off – even already marked-down items. Use promo code JULY4 online. And…
Cook Clean Craft
Travel Cross-stitch Kit25 Jul 2015 | 5:17 amOur last holiday was a trip to Bali. I didn't want to take a crochet or knitting project with me – playing with yarn in a tropical setting didn't appeal to me. Why not learn a new craft while on holiday? Cross-stitch keeps appearing on my radar, from the beginner series by Caitlin on And Sew We Craft to Crafty Mummy's rainbow collection. It looked like a portable craft, easy to do poolside while the kids are splashing (with Dad!). I'm not good at crafting without a purpose. I devised a plan for what I wanted to use the cross-stitch for (but I'll reveal that here when I've…
My Whole Thirty: the beginning20 Jul 2015 | 5:02 amToday, I started a Whole30 challenge. If you're not familiar, it's a 30 day challenge to eat whole foods – meat, fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. That means no grains, dairy, added sugar or alcohol. Thankfully, coffee's allowed, so I don't have to worry about kicking that at the same time as sugar! Why am I doing Whole30? I haven't been happy with my energy levels in a long time. I'm frustrated that I don't get everything done that I want. I'm frustrated that I tell my kids too often that Mummy's tired or Mummy's not feeling well. I get way too many colds, and feel…
How to sew a mermaid tail {Tutorial}11 Jun 2015 | 8:11 pmCeleste loves all things Disney princess (and well, I love a good princess movie too, so she may get encouragement from me). She got a box set of The Little Mermaid movies for Christmas (along with a Barbie Mermaid DVD). She swims like a mermaid, so when I spotted fish scales fabric at the counter at Spotlight, I had to get it (oops!). I had some purple netting in my stash from a project that never happened. Before I knew it, there was a Little Mermaid in the backyard: The fabric is a holographic foil on nylon spandex, so it's stretchy, but I still wanted Celeste (I mean Ariel) to be able…
5 years and now what?12 Mar 2015 | 10:13 pmSomehow on Sunday, this little blog will have it's 5th blogiversary. What? How can it possibly be that long? Well, I suppose this big boy was just a toddler when I started. And my cutie-girl was about the size of a jelly bean in my belly (we used to call her jelly bean!). It's hard to believe I've been working away on tutorials and inspiration for 5 years! Now my littlies are in school, and I've got more time to reflect on where I'm heading. I started this blog to keep me motivated while the kids were small. To spend my free time sewing, crafting and cooking, rather than…
Craft Gossip
Tutorial: Pleated mini skirt31 Jul 2015 | 3:53 pmTutorial: Pleated mini skirt Jess from The Sewing Rabbit shows how you can make a pleated mini skirt like this one. I am loving this style of skirt right now! The short, full skirt is so kicky and fun. Use … Read More...
Recycle your fluff! (DIY) Tutorial (Fluff a story)31 Jul 2015 | 3:42 pmJesusSauvage blogs out of France or Peru and is a wife and mom of two. I know as a mom that our children love to collect stuffed animals and my daughters are up in the attic probably a mass in … Read More...
Simple Polar Bear Cookies31 Jul 2015 | 2:00 pmI love bears! These cookies are so cute and I hope I can successfully make them look as good! Who knew you just needed a Hello Kitty cookie cutter to create these cuties! I'm going to check my local Michael's … Read More...
Australia Zoo's Great Garage Sale31 Jul 2015 | 1:41 pmFor those of you in Australia who do local craft shows, this looks like a great place to set up a booth! Not only that, but you also have the chance to bid on Steve Irwin's jet ski! What? Yes, … Read More...
Tutorial: Easy DIY sunglasses case31 Jul 2015 | 12:38 pmTutorial: Easy DIY sunglasses case Don't let your favorite pair of sunnies get scratched riding around in your purse! Erin from Sewbon shares a tutorial showing how you can make a sunglasses case. It has a simple snap closure, and … Read More...
Knitting T-Rex Shirt at Shirtwoot30 Jul 2015 | 8:24 amIf you have dino-mite! knitters in your life, or if you're just a fan of the Cretaceous period, head over to ShirtWoot! and take a gander at this adorable Crafty Girl tee. This would be a great gift for a knitter who's all about the Jurassic Park franchise. And the price? $8!! Can't beat that! […] Related posts: GIFT IDEA: Holiday Knitting Kits
GIVEAWAY: "Adventures in Mochimochi Land"28 Jul 2015 | 2:49 amHave you had a chance to pick up any of Anna Hrachovec's books yet? If you have, you know about her AMAZING miniature creations. But have you seen her latest book, Adventures in Mochi-Mochi Land: Tall Tales from a Tiny, Knitted World yet? Too cute! Not only does Anna have a new amigurumi book out, but […] Related posts: GIVEAWAY: 50 Sunflowers to Knit, Crochet & Felt Craft Gossip Giveaway: The Olympknits BOOK GIVEAWAY: Color Wheel Knits
Grandma Knits While Paragliding in Iceland23 Jul 2015 | 7:51 amIceland is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and Kristín Guðbjartsdóttir recently took her knitting to new heights (pun intended) as she tagged along with her paragliding-instructor son on a run recently. Talk about extreme knitting! I am going to agree with her choice of needles here! Shot on a selfie stick, the video […] Related posts: Real Men Knit (in Iceland!) New Knitting Iceland Issue! Iceland's Longest Knitted Scarf on Display
FREE PATTERN: Slitted Summer Dress14 Jul 2015 | 4:51 amPickles has done it again with a really sassy summer dress to knit up! Check out this free pattern from their website: Have a great summer day with 20% off the Slitted Summer Dress. http://shop.pickles.no/…/y…/women/tops/slitted-summer-dress/ Pickles Related posts: Free Pattern: Girl's Merry-go-around Dress Free Pattern: Garland Dress with Leg Warmers FREE PATTERN: Golden Child Dress
BOOK GIVEAWAY: Color Wheel Knits13 Jul 2015 | 10:53 amThe amazing Craft Gossip has a book giveaway for Color Wheel Knits: Knits for Hand Dyed Yarns by Veera Välimäki. All you need to do is go to their post and leave a comment by the end of the day on Sunday, July 20th. From their site: The designer, Veera Välimäki, recently released (in English, […] Related posts: GIVEAWAY: Animal Hats Book by Vanessa Mooncie Whit's Knits: Four Corners Baby Blanket Knit Red Book Knit-A-Long
Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom
BBQ Pulled Beef Brisket Stuffed Baked Potatoes31 Jul 2015 | 8:11 amThis is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Farm Rich Smokehouse BBQ for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.My parents have a house next door to ours and when they're in town, we often get together for dinner. Sometimes we plan ahead and really do it up. Occasionally we'll go out to eat, but most of the time we keep it fairly easy and casual, and just go with what I already had planned for dinner or maybe something from the freezer.This past Friday, we got the entire family together for dinner. I definitely wanted to keep the meal easy so I wouldn't be too worn out and…
Make a Journaling Notebook for Kids with these Free Printable Pages28 Jul 2015 | 1:37 pmGot little ones struggling with their handwriting? Why not make practicing fun with these free printable journaling pages for kids! (Plus learn how to easily bind the pages into a notepad.)Click here to keep reading » Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom, Copyright© 2015 version 27zx69sdr
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Cheerios Treats28 Jul 2015 | 6:48 amWho doesn't love the yummy combination of peanut butter and chocolate? Throw in a handful of Honey Nut Cheerios and melted marshmallows and you have a match made in heaven!Click here to keep reading » Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom, Copyright© 2015 version 27zx69sdr
Inspiration Monday, plus features 7.2626 Jul 2015 | 11:00 amWelcome back to the Inspiration Monday party! It's been a great week, full of more inspiration, crafts and recipes than we could ever hope for. We're so happy you have decided to join us once again. If you are new to our party, enjoy the fun of being linked to several blogs at one time.My favorite links from last week were:How to Sew a Zipper Pocket from Gathered ThreadsAnd these Kate Spade Inspired Key Fobs from Flamingo ToesClick here to keep reading » Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom, Copyright© 2015 version 27zx69sdr
Box Tops For Education Bonus Offer24 Jul 2015 | 1:53 pmWith school just around the corner, it's never too early to start stocking up on school supplies favorite snack and treats, thinking about fundraisers and any other items needed for the classroom. Speaking of fundraisers... Did you know Box Tops For Education is one of the easiest ways to raise money for your school?Click here to keep reading » Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom, Copyright© 2015 version 27zx69sdr
Where I will be in August22 Jul 2015 | 11:22 pmCome and make art with me! Aug 4 & 11, 2015: Art Unraveled, Phoenix, AZ. Aug 7-9, 2015: Everything Scrapbook & Stamps, Lake Worth, FL. Aug 14-16, 2015: My Heart's Fancy, Oklahoma City, OK. Aug 21-23, 2015: Absolutely Everything, Topsfield, MA.
For the love of Pinterest...11 Jul 2015 | 11:53 amI know I've shared this before, but I thought I'd mention again that I have a board where I pin artwork done with my Dina Wakley Media Line products. Click here to see the board! There are lots of cute projects, from art journal pages to tags to cards. I do pin some of my stuff to the board, but I also pin work by others that I spot on Pinterest. If you do something with my products, link me to your blog and I will pin it to the board.
Little card tutorial on the Ranger blog...8 Jul 2015 | 11:05 amHowdy! Do you have any journal pages, mop-up pages, or gelli prints that you don't like much? Check the Ranger blog today for a quickie tutorial...I show you how easy it is to recycle those "so-so" pieces into an adorable card.
Journals drying...3 Jul 2015 | 1:12 amI work in three or more journals at a time. I know I've described my organic working method in the past. I never do a page from start to finish in a sitting. Instead I paint a little, throw the journal behind me and grab another one, paint or draw or stamp or collage a little, then throw that one behind...lather, rinse, repeat. I love working like this. It releases the pressure of having to finish something and just encourages play. Here's a pic I took of my floor after a few hours of art-ing.
Paintings made from marks...30 Jun 2015 | 1:08 amNot sure if I ever shared these. I taught my mark-making class at Art from the Heart back in Oct of 2014. These were a few of my class samples that day. The one is the middle...look at it carefully and you'll see a woman bent over, with her arms folded. I find her to be so very emotive and sad. The one of the left is a woman holding a baby (I alllllwwwaaaays see a woman holding a baby in my marks). The one of the right is a dancer.
AllFreeSewing.com Articles
Hanging Zipper Votive Holder31 Jul 2015 | 10:09 amMake an unexpected DIY Christmas ornament when you create a surprisingly stunning and easy-to-make Hanging Zipper Votive Holder. Skip tradition for once and make something that looks chic and cute on your tree. This homemade Christmas ornament is going to look great on your tree. These DIY votive holders would be a smart creation to make as a small gift, as well. if you make several of these for your friends, you are pretty much guaranteed that you will be the only one giving away this zipper-filled idea.
Hi-Low Pocket Top Pattern31 Jul 2015 | 10:07 amThe Hi-Low Pocket Top is a loose and floaty sewn top pattern, perfect for teaming with skinny trousers, leggings, or shorts. It falls higher at the front and dips down at the back with little cap sleeves. Complete with a scoop neck with a curved vent down the front, this top to sew is as flattering as it is comfortable. The back has a separate yoke and a tucked pleat, adding some volume to its trapeze shape. Requiring a few hours of your time and a few yards of fabric, this top would look stunning in a printed or floral fabric.
Modern Chic Free Dress Pattern31 Jul 2015 | 10:04 amLearning how to make a dress can be one of the most fun and rewarding sewing projects, especially when you try on your beautiful DIY dress for the first time. This Modern Chic Free Dress Pattern is funky, beautiful, and figure-flattering for any woman, and includes measurements for sizes 4-22. The geometric pattern is an eye-catching hot trend that highlights your curves in all the right places. You can dress it up with the right accessories for work or a formal event, or pair it with a casual jacket and sandals for a Saturday on the go.
Spirit of Christmas Fabric Wreath31 Jul 2015 | 10:03 amChristmas scraps start collecting around mid-October, and by December they've completely taken over the scrap pile. The Spirit of Christmas Fabric Wreath is the solution! This piece of DIY Christmas decor will look so gorgeous on the front door or hanging from the mantle. Best of all, using scraps won't cost you a thing! DIY Christmas wreaths are such great projects during the holidays because they last forever, make great gifts, and aren't hard to put together. Give your front stoop a little holiday spirit with this adorable wreath.
Hexi Pincushion Tutorial31 Jul 2015 | 10:02 amEvery seamstress needs a pincushion, and every seamstress has an abundance of fabric scraps. Why not make a pincushion using those scraps? This Hexi Pincushion Tutorial is a cute scrap-busting project and will look great in a variety of colors, so it's a good way to learn how to make a pincushion. Don't be intimidated by the hand-sewing. The English paper piecing templates make this DIY pincushion project a breeze. You'll have a pretty hexagon flower pincushion done in no time. If you're looking for free pincushion patterns, stop right here and take a look!
Art Platter
Maithri's Jewels – Floral inspiration collection13 Jul 2015 | 5:47 amHello readers! The first collection of Maithri's Jewels which would be a lovely collection of semi-precious bead necklaces is on sale from today. Each necklace is unique and there are no two pieces of one design! All beads used are natural and no synthetic replicas have been used. So ladies, get ready to flaunt in ... The post Maithri's Jewels – Floral inspiration collection appeared first on Art Platter.
Launching soon – Maithri's Jewels!2 Jul 2015 | 9:21 pmSo here is the big news!! I will be soon be launching my own line of fusion jewelry under the name "Maithri's Jewels". For some time now, many have asked me if I sell my jewellery and I have always been responding with a "Soon". And the time is now here… Maithri's jewels will consist ... The post Launching soon – Maithri's Jewels! appeared first on Art Platter.
Thank you card with buttons26 Jun 2015 | 2:22 amToday we've made a simple Thank you card using card stock, some colorful buttons and a white ink pen. You can make this card in under 15 minutes and it looks pretty cool! Closer look at the card: The base of the card is dark brown card stock. Score at the center of the card ... The post Thank you card with buttons appeared first on Art Platter.
Quilling jewelry – Workshop update16 Jun 2015 | 8:16 pmThank you all for your responses! All slots filled !! The post Quilling jewelry – Workshop update appeared first on Art Platter.
Quilling Jewellery workshop – June13 Jun 2015 | 7:44 pmHello there people!! Thank you all for your responses showing interest in the online Workshop to be conducted. The sub-topics to be covered are: Basics of quilling How to make a quilling stud How to make a quilling jhumka How to make a dangling earring with quilling Tips and tricks Please keep the following materials available: ... The post Quilling Jewellery workshop – June appeared first on Art Platter.
DIY Collage of Pages Bookcase31 Jul 2015 | 7:35 amIt's likely you own a few novels you're never going to read again. So why not take one off the shelf and repurpose it? You can freshen up an old bookcase using nothing more than the torn-out pages of a finished book. This DIY Bookcase is a fitting addition to any bibliophile's living room, bedroom, or study.
Soda Can Pop Top Brooch Pins27 Jul 2015 | 7:29 amThese cute brooch-pins are made out of thrown away can tabs and buttons.
Vintage Crochet Shortalls22 Jul 2015 | 7:33 pm
Make A Paper Dahlia Wreath In Less Than One Hour20 Jul 2015 | 7:13 amPaper dahlia wreaths are quite popular these days as each version of it looks great! Well, here's another one and it will have you creating one in only a few minutes!
How to Make a Kokedama – Hanging Japanese Moss Balls17 Jul 2015 | 9:26 amLearn how to make a Kokedama. Kokedama are Japanese moss ball plants that you can hang. Kokedama are easy to make and are a modern alternative to a Bonsai tree. We also show you how to make the Macrame hanger to hang it.
Family Chic by Camilla Fabbri ©2009-2014. All rights reserved. The blog
My Homemade Cleaner27 Jul 2015 | 5:06 pmI came up with this simple recipe when I was trying to find an eco-friendly way to clean our countertops and stainless appliances (which is a daily routine around here). I use it for everything now – even our floors. A few of you have asked about my homemade cleaner that I mentioned in The Country Living Magazine article a few weeks ago. Here is the recipe: Camilla's Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner: 3 parts water 1 part white vinegar A dash of almond oil dish soap Use a spray bottle to apply – wipe up with a soft cloth.
My New Favorite Lip Shine21 Jul 2015 | 10:31 amI've tried a lot of lip glosses and shines and this one from Burt's Bees is my absolute favorite. It's light, all natural, isn't sticky and gives a sheer berry tone to the lip… This is my go-to lip color these days. Burt's Bee's 100% Natural Lip Shine in Pucker. "Pucker" is the perfect tone – very natural-looking. Love that my hair doesn't get stuck in it too!
Our Little "Beach"25 Jun 2015 | 5:07 amHere's another one of my favorite spots on our property. We created this beach-inspired gravel patio in the area right outside of our front door… We dug up the grass to create a slight recess, put down landscape fabric and spread out pea gravel to make this space. Our SKARPÖ chairs from IKEA ($59.99 each, click image to link thru to details) were the perfect choice — comfortable, weather + child-friendly and affordable. I like the way it feels like a small beach. A cast iron urn at the base of our steps holds a bright pink geranium. Our sliver of a spot is functional and…
Our Garden Now24 Jun 2015 | 10:09 amI thought I'd share a few shots of my garden with you… The seating area in our backyard. Chairs from Bed Bath & Beyond ($50 each), occasional tables and Buddha head are garage sale and rummage sale finds. Lemon grass plants ($12.99, Home Depot) are dropped into terra cotta pots — an easy way to create a lush backdrop. Love to mix interesting details in with the plants. This set is comfortable, affordable, durable and good looking.
My Favorite Pants For Summer22 Jun 2015 | 1:46 pmI bought a pair of these smocked pants from Free People last summer. I loved them so much, I immediately bought another pair in a different color. Now that the weather is warming up, I started wearing them again. They are my absolute favorites. They are like really chic sweatpants. I throw them on with a loose top and a pair of flat sandals and I'm comfortable, but a little more put together. The fabric is light, the cut is loose — perfect for hot days. Very glad to see that they're selling them again this season. Love my Leighanna Smocked Pants from Free People. The smocked…
The Crafty Crow
Children's Garden Stepping Stone DIY27 Jul 2015 | 7:45 amSummer is the perfect time for kids to try their hand at making garden stepping stones. We Bloom Here shares a tutorial that shows just how easy it is so be sure to check it out.
Summer Sun Prints27 Jul 2015 | 7:30 amPurple Twig shares how they made these sun prints featuring natural items such as flowers, leaves, and twigs. I love how they are mounted on boards with string attached so they are ready to be displayed at home.
Have You Tried Book Spine Poetry?27 Jul 2015 | 7:15 amIf you are looking for a great way to introduce poetry to children take a look at this spine poetry idea at What Do We Do All Day. Fun for all ages and adults too!
Dragon Adventures on Netflix Streaming!21 Jul 2015 | 7:30 amThere's a new Netflix original series from the creators of How to Train Your Dragon called Dragons: Race to The Edge! It's geared especially for kids aged 5 - 7, but come on, who doesn't love a good dragon story?!I thought I'd share a few of my favorite dragon crafts to do while your watching, enjoy! lacing dragon bead and spool toy via The Unexpected... egg carton dragon via Activity Village handprint dragon craft via Classified Mom milk jug dragon mask via Filth Wizardry cereal box dragon wings via kv.barn Want more dragon adventures? Check…
Totem Pole Kids Craft20 Jul 2015 | 7:45 amTo-Made has a tutorial for this colorful totem pole craft that's easy to make from tin cans and cardboard. Here are couple of totem pole book recommendations for kids to learn more about this amazing artform: Totem Tale by Deb Vanesse Totem Pole by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith*This post contains affiliate links - thanks for your support!
New Pincushion Cuffs29 Jul 2015 | 9:33 amTwo more pincushion cuffs are available in my etsy shop here (floral) and here (chambray). This one is made from a Dear Stella print called Summer Love. Of course, if you want to make your own, there is always the pattern.
New Pattern - Zip Pocket Pouch Wristlet21 Jul 2015 | 11:47 amZip Pocket Pouch Wristlet Find the pattern here at michellepatterns.com, or here on etsy. It's a good size for phones + a few other small things. It's also perfect for Moleskine Pocket Cahier journals. The instructions are for a detachable wristlet strap. I like that this only needs a clip and no other hardware. I also like that the pocket is big enough for pens!
Another Pincushion Cuff13 Jul 2015 | 9:34 pmThis morning I finished this cuff and posted it in my etsy shop here. The pattern is available here or here on etsy.
Arm Candy Chambray Wristlet12 Jul 2015 | 11:59 amHere are the details for this bag: • Pattern = Arm Candy from Dog Under My Desk • Fabric = Robert Kaufman chambray • Flower = Made with a Clover Kanzashi Maker. This tool makes these flowers go together much faster than folding and stitching them without any assistance. I made one years ago without using the tool and found it too much work to feel motivated to make it again. But I like the flowers, so I was happy to discover this clever little tool. The leaves are from the Rose Pincushion pattern. • Button = vintage glass button
Some New Things11 Jul 2015 | 11:29 amAwl - Don't let this scare you, because awls are very, very useful sewing tools, but Thomas Braille lost his sight due to an awl accident. I wasn't sure I wanted to know the gory details, but I looked anyway. The good news is he eventually used an awl to create the Braille system. Iron Off - When I share pics of the gunk that comes off my iron on IG--which I like to share because it's amazing how disgustingly dirty the iron gets!--it's surprising how many people don't realize they need to clean their iron, or that iron cleaner exists. You don't know, until…
Stitching the Night Away
12 Zodiac Block Sets – Special Preorder Price30 Jul 2015 | 12:16 amIf you just want to stitch your own Zodiac sign, then the individual files are your best choice. If you want to stitch them all together as a sampler, stitch a few for gifts, or maybe even make some family ornaments, then this combo pack will save you 50% off the cost of purchasing each Zodiac individually. We're half way there with the Zodiac pattern series. So far the Zodiac signs that are ready include Gemini, Leo, Aries, Capricorn, Virgo, and Aquarius – and those are all available through my Craftsy shop. I've had a few people write and tell me that they're waiting…
Pattern Pick of the Day: Oblivion24 Jul 2015 | 4:01 amI love these colorful fractal patterns by StitchX, always so pretty. You can see this one over on Craftsy. This pattern uses 90 DMC thread colors and the stitch count is 400 x 400, but don't be intimidated by the numbers, every stitch is worth it Enjoy & Happy Stitching!
Flaming Floral Sunshine Pattern21 Jul 2015 | 5:47 pm(click here to open Craftsy in a new tab to add the pattern to your account) Pattern size is 106 x 106 stitches. This is a single color pattern in all full stitches, but that doesn't mean you can't have fun with it! Pick up a fun variegated color or a shiny metallic thread and add your own pizzazz! While you can use any color you'd like and I certainly encourage you to experiment, the colors I used in the test stitching and designing process were DMC 817 coral red and DMC 444 lemon. Thank you for your amazing support. Enjoy the pattern and happy stitching!
Aquarius Zodiac Blocks21 Jul 2015 | 4:57 amAquarius (♒) Friendly, outgoing and intellectual, Aquarius is always brimming with great ideas and fun conversation. Plus, they're ever-willing to lend an ear or a helping hand. Aquarius is symbolized by the Water-Bearer, though it's actually an Air sign. (click here to go to Craftsy in a new window or tab) Each block in the series is 45 x 45 stitches so they can be used together or individually and be interchangeable. On their own they're the perfect size for an ornament, a card, or a scented sachet. You can group several symbols together for a family sampler or stitch all 12…
Coloring Animal Mandalas on a Rainy Saturday19 Jul 2015 | 7:56 amWorking from home and meeting people online over the years has brought many interesting and amazing people into my life, and for that I am very grateful. When one of those people accomplishes a goal, I'm excited to be there to watch it happen and I'm ready to cheer them on. Wendy Piersall is one of those people. Wendy is a talented artist and a fun blogger to follow. Her first coloring book came out in October, Coloring Animal Mandalas and of course I bought it right away. The book was a beautiful success. She has two more books out now, a fourth one that you can preorder! I enjoy…
Back to Blogging :)7 Jul 2015 | 10:08 amThough I am an impatient person – sometimes it seems like I have waited all my life for the perfect time or the perfect opportunity. Now, with my 30th birthday rapidly approaching me – I have realized that there is no right time and that I will never be "ready" enough to do things that I want. Life is too short to wait in the sidelines so I am not going to wait anymore. I am getting back to blogging here I will be sharing more about making jewelry and other handmade crafts in between as well. An update about me – I am now living in Atlanta, in Georgia state. I…
A whole new adventure13 Jul 2014 | 8:15 amWhere do I start? I don't want to start with apologies and regrets for not blogging regularly – so I'll start with the changes that are happening in my life. I have moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, U.S.A for my husband's work. I quit my regular job as a technical writer and am now finally free to follow my heart. Almost everything I know has changed and is away from me – my home, my land, my friends, my work – but I feel a sense of peace and renewal. Sometimes Life shakes you up so that you can get back onto your feet. I am learning to be open and…
Day 3: Being Nice to other Handmade Sellers2 Aug 2013 | 8:55 pmWhen I was younger, I loved to be generous – I was always "that girl" who gave gifts to friends, made soppy handmade cards for my family member's birthdays and begged spare change from my mom to give to a poor man. When I reached college however, something changed and I became less generous. I still love giving gifts to people but often stop myself from such behaviors to prevent heartache. I realized that some people don't deserve gifts or affection and that I shouldn't expect anything from them either. What is the point of this whole long drawn out…
The 10-Minute Pseudo-Skirt That I'll Never Wear in Public6 Jul 2015 | 6:55 pmI don't know why I always think it's a good idea to sew things. I don't have a sewing machine, for one thing. For another thing, I don't sew, like ever. I mean, I sew buttons on things now and then, and then they fall off again, and then I just stop buttoning whatever the buttons fell off of (and hope they're not pants). But I fell in love with these cute little kid skirts. Image from makeit-loveit.com I decided I had to make one, since I have a lot of my husband's old t-shirts in the closet and this would, of course, translate to a fully grown (and…
Zucchini Bread and Excuses17 Jun 2015 | 6:32 pmI know, people. I know. And I hate the thing where bloggers are like, "I'm so sorry I've been gone and you've had to live without me for these long, tortured weeks! I will try to do better because I know your whole world revolves around reading words out of my dumb brain." So I won't say that. Instead I will say that I have excuses. Not good ones, per se, but they are excuses. 1. I have been very busy. I know it's passe to call yourself "busy" and the productivity squad is now going to jump on me and tell me that I shouldn't brag…
Fart Symphony20 May 2015 | 7:17 amI am pretty sure readers of this blog will appreciate the many fart jokes herein. Enjoy. It's a gas.
AllFreeKidsCrafts.com Articles
Glowing Mason Jars31 Jul 2015 | 9:44 amCatching fireflies can be difficult, so make your own glow in the dark lantern with this Glowing Mason Jars craft. Since youre cutting glow sticks, it can be a little dangerous for young kids, especially if they are still putting everything in their mouths. Help them make this Mason jar craft and then they can run around in a darkening yard with their glowing jar. This glow-in-the-dark Mason jar craft is perfect for trick or treating or taking twilight walks with the little ones. Your kids can make a glowing jar in every color!
Pencil Through Bag Science Experiment31 Jul 2015 | 6:50 amWhat do you think will happen when you shove a pencil through a plastic bag full of water? You'll be amazed is what will happen. The Pencil Through Bag Science Experiment is fascinating to kids and adults of all ages, whether you understand the science behind it or not. Look no further for winning science fair projects because this stunner will grab the gold. It's so simple and quick to perform, yet its incredibly thrilling and mesmerizing. You'll want to conduct this cool science project over and over again. Chemistry experiments for kids are wonderful ways to discover the magic of science.
Adorable Candy Bar Wrapper Template31 Jul 2015 | 6:49 amThere's no better way to show your appreciation than with words--or candy. This Adorable Candy Bar Wrapper Template lets you decorate any candy bar how you please with these great free printables. Teachers will love this creative and personalized simple kids craft, and you'll love how easy and inexpensive it is to make. Just print the template, cut, and tape, and you've got a candy bar like no other. Make a lovely gift for that special educator in your and your kids' lives.
Printable Tulips31 Jul 2015 | 6:48 amInstead of waiting weeks for flowers to bloom, make your own prebloomed flowers. It's not as hard as it sounds with the convenient Printable Tulips craft. All you have to do is click, print, and cut to make this flower craft come to life. Set your beautiful blossoms in a personalized jar, and you're ready to impress. Keep these on your dresser or give them to Mom to display in the kitchen. No matter where you put these summer crafts for kids, you're sure to bring smiles to everyone's face.
Button Elephant31 Jul 2015 | 6:47 amDecorate your room with a bit of sweetness when you frame your Button Elephant. This darling craft looks professional, but it can be made by kids, and it's also budget-friendly when you use spare buttons you have lying around the house. This adorable baby animal craft would make the perfect gift for a new sibling. If you don't want to spend a lot of money, count on free animal crafts for children to make, and you'll still get spectacular results. Button crafts are great fine motor skill practice for young crafters and this one is no exception. You'll love the look on guests' faces when you…
Ashland Bay
Cheviot - Year of the Sheep19 Jul 2015 | 11:39 amCheviot sheep originated in the Cheviot Hills on the border of Scotland and England. They produce 1/7th of the total wool production in Scotland. Cheviot wool, known for its durability, is used in socks, sweaters, blankets and wool tweeds for jackets and fine suiting material. These sheep originated in Scotland but are now found in many other countries, including the United States and Canada. HistoryCheviots are an extremely hardy breed, named for the area which they originated the Cheviot Hills. For centuries they were raised in the open without the benefit of a shelter, but their hardiness…
Merino - Year of the Sheep8 Jul 2015 | 11:02 amimage: http://pages.rapha.cc/stories/the-merino-miracleMerino wool is arguably one of the most recognized breeds of sheep today. "Made with Merino" labels are used on products to add instant value. Merino wool has become synonymous with soft, against the skin comfort. But there is so much more to know about this illustrious breed. HistoryThe early history of the merino sheep has many conflicting opinions prior to the 13th century. The general consensus is that the breed was developed in Spain by the Royalty and the Clergy from breeding Spain's sheep with…
Ashland Bay's Year of the Sheep Celebration30 Jun 2015 | 3:13 pmimage from Content.time.comAs hand spinners, dyers and felters, we have the distinct privilege of working with any type of fiber we can get our hands on. It's like cooking from scratch. You know exactly what is in the end product and can be assured of a (somewhat) predictable outcome. As 2015 is the year of the sheep, we thought we would have a little fun! Starting the second week of July every other week, Ashland Bay will highlight a breed specific wool top. Along with being on sale for that 2 week period, each breed will get its own…
Wool Classification for Domestic Sheep28 Jun 2015 | 5:15 pmpicture courtesy of sheepshow.com Breeds of sheep can be classified in several different ways. Examples being, classed by their suitability for meat production vs wool production, topography of the area they originated or the type of wool they produce.For Ashland Bay's purposes, we use the wool type classification to get an understanding and an appreciation of the different types of wool available to the spinner and textile artist. In the below chart you can see the breed breakdown of wools ranging from fine to coarse wool. The starred breeds are…
Redefining Felt, Part 223 Jun 2015 | 3:25 amPart 2 from felt artist Janice ArnoldFinding inspiration:Trying to describe inspiration is complex! It begins with embracing every moment of the present with a sense of wonder and innocence. In this mental state I find inspiration in unexpected places. Sometimes it is a literal thing I see- like a pattern created by light or shadow, a stone, tree bark covered with moss or the black and white lines on a map. But it can also be something odd like peeling paint, an ancient wall or cracked cement! Sometimes it stems from a challenge, a response to an emotion or as part of the process of solving…
My Love of Style| My Love of Style
10 FREE Nursery / Kid's Room Printables20 Jul 2015 | 9:39 amI absolutely LOVE Printables, especially Free Printables!! They are such a fun and inexpensive way to dress up your walls,…
3-layer Triple Stacked Hair Bow Tutorial13 Jul 2015 | 3:33 amI've been addicted to boutique hair bows since I was pregnant with Riley. The moment I found out I was…
8 AMAZING Ways to Use Pallets in a Home Renovation {Pallet Projects}9 Jul 2015 | 9:56 amWooden Pallet Projects are extremely popular, and rightfully so…they allow you to recycle / upcycle, save money and create a…
Pink and Yellow Owl Baby Shower Pennant Banner Tutorial22 Jun 2015 | 10:34 amI'm helping host a Pink and Yellow Owl themed baby shower and was put in charge of the decorations, and…
DIY Greek Key Curtains {No-Sew Tutorial}14 Jun 2015 | 5:00 amAs most of you know from my Craft Room Inspirations and Craft Room Vision Board posts I've been working like crazy…
Iconic Patterns
Old school: A shoulder dart for nerds9 Jul 2015 | 10:23 pmIn one of my previous posts I described a shoulder dart calculation method. It is, of course, one of many, and possibly one of the easiest. Today I'd like to tell you about another method, much more complicated and for this reason much more interesting (to me, anyway). This pattern drafting method was developed by an organisation called "Central Institute of Scientific Research of Apparel Manufacturing" in ex-USSR. The development of this method took 20 years (1959-1979) – that's right, a team full of professionals had been working on it for two decades. Needless to say, it is…
You are invited!3 Jul 2015 | 9:19 pmI like knowing what's out there, especially if it is in any way sewing related. I browse through fabric stores, haberdashery, forums, but what I love the most is looking at other indie designer's patterns. I get inspired by their imagination, the quality of their work and continuous improvement. Do you know how much talent is out there? You can probably name a few, but it's almost impossible to keep up with everyone: their releases, updates, errata and special discounts. To make this a little easier, I have created a Facebook group with a long name "Indie Sewing Patterns,…
A smart house dress14 Jun 2015 | 8:38 pmRecently I read an article about how the way we dress has changed over the years. That these days comfort is above all and if only we could find that perfect kind of track pants that would be suitable for work, we'd need nothing else. I guess there is truth in that, since I've started doing my daily school runs, jeans, long sleeve tees and sneakers have become my wardrobe staple. The comfort clothes are taking over my wardrobe, and since there is no point in fighting this invasion, a much better idea would be to make comfort clothes look smart. So here is what I came up with – a…
Old school: Narrow sleeves and elbow darts.8 Jun 2015 | 5:50 pmToday's nerdy piece is about sleeves. Sleeves are probably one of most feared part of the garment, and the narrow sleeves are the worst, because there is no room to hide your mistakes. Recently someone asked my advise on a narrow Chanel jacket sleeve. I honestly admit, I have never been interested in Chanel jacket or its sleeves, but I've done the sleeves with elbow darts. Elbow darts are even harder to find these days than shoulder darts I mentioned in my previous nerdy post. In this post learn all about the connection and difference between semi-fitted, narrow and very narrow sleeve and…
Old school: The shoulder dart31 May 2015 | 7:45 pmOld sewing books are an invaluable source of information. I own many books, in paper and digital form, most of them are in Russian and Ukrainian. These books have been used to educate the generations of professional seamstresses, tailors and cutters. Some of these books are extremely old and can not be applied to modern days, while others (especially those published in 1940s and 50s) are an absolute treasure. I'd like to share some of the information from these books with you. Where the name and author is known, I'll mention it, along with the year of the publication. Some information can…
Choose the New Item for Our Shop!28 Jul 2015 | 3:41 pm1. Take a look at the four pictures and descriptions below. 2. Send me an email at email@example.com with the number of the item that you want to see added to the shop at The Treasury. If your item wins … Continue reading →
What Size Were Brooches in the Middle Ages – Part 8 – Manufacturing Buckles and Belt Ends27 Jul 2015 | 3:00 amLast time we were talking about how generous the modern belt makers are with their metal – something that is a readily available and cheap resource today. Comparing the belt fittings that we purchased at Pennsic to actual artifacts was … Continue reading →
What Size Were Brooches in the Middle Ages ? – Part 7 – More Buckles20 Jul 2015 | 3:00 amSo last time I was wondering why buckles might be a bit smaller than we might expect. I proposed that some of the reasons could include cost, difficulty of construction, fashion, and functionality. Looking at cost first – metal was … Continue reading →
Cheery Lynn Designs Blog
Best Wishes Dove Card With Corina Finley31 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amHello and Happy Friday!Today I wanted to share my Anniversary card that I created using the new Peace Dove die from the Cheery Lynn Designs July 15th release!I started with a layered base from pattern paper and cardstock. I added stitching along the edges of the layers with white thread. Next, I die cut the Royal Scandinavian Doily from black Damask pattern paper.The Peace Dove was cut from Music note pattern paper. There is so much detail in this Dove, from the feathers on the wings to the delicate detail on the Doves body. So Elegant! I also added two gold circles for…
Gingerbread Christmas with Jenny Alia30 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amHi, Jenny here today with a Christmas card in July. It's 90 degrees in NY today but I wanted to play with this adorable Gingerbread Family die!The card base is a green A2 card. I cut a piece of patterned card stock slightly smaller to layer on top. Then I cut three gingerbread people out of a creamy gray paper. I glued white card stock to the backs so the eyes and buttons would look like they were made with white icing. A little distress ink was sponged around the edges and I added red pearls for buttons and the center of the bow.The circle was cut…
G'Day Love With Lisa Blastick29 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amG'Day Love! It's Lisa back this week with another New Release Diecut from Cheery Lynn Designs! It's Kaptain Kangaroo! The name of the diecut takes me back to my child time. I remember watching Captain Kangaroo on Saturday mornings. Such a great memory and blast from the past. When I was thinking about what I wanted to make with him, I thought about so many different backgrounds. Suddenly, I thought of one of my favorite movies from years ago, Crocodile Dundee and his love for his country. It then became about love and hearts. I used two of the smaller and one of the largest…
For You by Karen Maldonado28 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amHi there Cheery Lynn friends! Karen here today sharingthis fun 3-D Poinsetta card!I started by using the pink snowflake designer paper anddie cut it using the French Flair Classic Silver Stacker set for the card base.Then, I created a 3-layered piece to put on the base of the cardusing these dies in this order: Square Scalloped LG Square Stackers,Horizon Square Boutique Stacker Frames, and Square Classic Silver Stackers.Then, I die cut the 3-D Poinsetta twice, distressed inked both pieces,and layered, and added some pearls to the center of the…
Savor the Season by Eva Dobilas27 Jul 2015 | 12:30 amHi there, this is Eva. This week our challenge is Anything Goes, so I thought I would show case one of our newest dies called the Thankful Harvest.I started my card die cutting two Horizon Rectangle Boutique Stacker Frames out of Pumpkin color card stock. I cut a smaller piece of white water color card stock and embossed it using Leaves Textures and using watercolors I created my background and backed it up with black. Than I die cut a Royal Scandinavian Oval Doily out of black card stock.I die cut one Thankful Harvest using…
Grow Creative
Shop Anniversary Sale and a Freebie29 Jul 2015 | 6:43 amIt's officially been four years of selling my Art on Etsy! What a journey it has been............At this point, I don't know exactly where my life is going or consequently, where this business of mine is going, but think my Grow Creative Shop will be around for many years to come :)To celebrate, I'm sharing a shop discount and a freebie with all of you!Here's the discount:Use Code: 4YEAR40at checkout to get 40% off anything and everything in my shop.That includes: originals, giclee prints, custom work, and even digital filesAnd now for the freebie!an 8x10 printable…
Painting Abstracts20 Jul 2015 | 5:49 pmI don't know why I don't paint more abstracts. I always have fun when I do!Lately, I'm into abstracts that sort of look like landscapes, like these that remind me of the ocean and sky. I had those in mind while painting :)What kind of abstracts do like to paint? Do they have a resemblance to anything or is it just pure colors and forms?
In the Works14 Jul 2015 | 3:04 pmI'm slowly getting my energy back, but I still need lots of rest and down time. So.... I crochet. I have a couple of projects in the works I wanted to share. First- hexagons to be made into a blanket at some point. Here's the tutorial I've been using to make these:Crochet HexagonsAnd the other project is a rug made from double stranded cotton yarn! Yay! I'll be posting a pattern once it's done and I can photograph it in my new house :)
Photos of the Week6 Jul 2015 | 10:33 amI still can't manage long walks, but I can do the small ones and there's still plenty of nature to photograph!
Icecream and Popsicles2 Jul 2015 | 10:55 amFive Watercolor Popsicles I've been busy creating paintings of my favorite summer foods- ice cream and popsicles!They're my favorite because I have such good memories of these treats outdoors with my siblings and cousins- and now my own son. Summer is the best :)Mint Ice Cream ConePopsicle TrioThese are all 9x12s - bigger than I normally paint. Now I just need a bigger scanner! So I have a question for you other artists out there, how do digitize your work? Do you scan yourself or hire it out? What scanner do you use?
DIY Beaded Chain Bracelet22 Jul 2015 | 2:08 pmHappy Wednesday everyone! We're pretty much halfway into summer, and I've got another beautiful DIY to share with you all. I honestly love simple jewelry, and this diy chain bracelet is no exception. I won't lie, you might have to run to the store to get some supplies to make the bracelet, but it's totally worth it! The end result is so pretty that you will want to make some for your friends/family too. Read on for the super easy tutorial!Materials: Chain, jump rings, flat nose/round nose pliers, chain cutter, hook/clasp, beads, eye pin1. Slide your beads onto the eye…
DIY Ring Cones9 Jul 2015 | 1:18 pmSo I stepped out to Michaels a few days ago and bought a bunch of materials…which means diys are on the way (hopefully). Here's one that is one of my favorites! This project is so adorable and almost everyone needs to make one! (I mean come on, who doesn't own a few rings?) As you can probably tell by my last post, I'm obsessed with water marbling and decided to give it a go on clay. It turned out great and I couldn't wait to share it! Read on for the how-to! Materials: Oven bake clay, nail polish, cup with water, glass dish (to put in the oven)1. Start out…
DIY: Water Marbled Glassware24 Jun 2015 | 6:33 pmI love room decor projects! With summer in full swing, I decided to try out this colorful, bright project that can be used to decorate any space and share it with you all. Water marbling became super popular last year, especially for nail art, but this technique can similarly be applied to other items, such as glassware! The effect looks very cool and each time the final look turns out different. Read on for the tutorial!Materials: Nail polish (I used two colors but you can also do this with just one), plastic container that you don't mind getting dirty, skewer stick, water, glass jar1.
DIY: Dainty Gemstone Bracelet5 Apr 2015 | 1:43 pmOkay, so I admit, I'm guilty. I haven't posted a new DIY in more than a week. And don't even ask me how long it's been since my last jewelry DIY. But…patience pays off because today's DIY dainty gemstone bracelet is a total winner! On a side note, are these things known as rhinestones or gemstones? Whatever they're called, they are gorgeous! This easy-to-make bracelet is super simple yet elegant, and I think I've made about five of them already (yes, I'm crazy). Hop along for the ride if you'd like to learn and follow the steps…
DIY To Try: 3 Projects for New Years31 Dec 2014 | 11:30 amHappy New Year everyone! Wow, I can't believe 2015 is already here. I guess that means it's time for some resolutions. One of my goals is to definitely devote more time to posting new projects on the blog. I slacked off a little bit (let's be honest, a lot) and I'm going to try harder to post more often. I hope that all of you have huge success in accomplishing your goals for the new year! Here are three fabulous DIYs I found to kick off 2015.How cute is this sequined banner from A Beautiful Mess? Perfect for a holiday party!Make these beautiful gift boxes from Oh So…
Knit Luck - Knitting Your Way to A Better Life
Knitcation30 Jul 2015 | 12:38 pmFor the first time in years our family took a vacation. Nothing fancy, just a trip to Dallas, TX to visit my grandma and for my kids to spend some quality time with their great grandma. I had a wonderful time, hanging out in the city I used to visit every summer, even if it was hotter than blazes. It was two weeks with my husband and kids, connecting with my grandma and exploring just how awesome Dallas has become since I was a kid. I marvelled at the low housing prices. I could live in a nice neighborhood with good schools in a remodeled brick house with a pool. My favorite kind of…
In Need of the Crafty9 Jul 2015 | 8:13 pmI am taking a stand. I need a circle of crafty people around me to commiserate with at least once a week. They need not all be knitters. I am sad that none of my local yarn shops have a knitting night that I want to attend. Most of them are 20+ minutes away and end up full by the time I get there. I wish there was one walking distance. I wish I had the patience to open my own yarn shop, but I have neither the funds nor the desire to work weekends. I wish that Purlescense or Nine Rubies was closer to me. Or Verb. But they're not. I did just get the heads up that my local…
Summer Stripes29 Jun 2015 | 5:25 pmIt's not too hot to knit socks. Summer is treating me well. I'm focusing on the kids and doing the kinds of things that moms with older kids get to do, like taking the kids to swimming lessons. This means that I've got time to sit around and wait while the swimming lessons commence and like for most knitters that means that I've got time to knit. I've already finished a pair of socks this summer and I'm almost halfway done with another pair. I just have to finish the toe on this blue and white striped sock. It's a nice feeling of accomplishment that I enjoy so much that I can't manage to go…
Summer Times23 Jun 2015 | 10:52 amThese summer socks are growing fast. I cast them on for the summer solstice so they're officially my summer socks. They're already a couple of inches long: First week of summer and we're already rocking it. Oldest son started swim lessons and wowed me with his bravery. He was very nervous about learning to swim and I was fully ready for a giant fearful tantrum just trying to get him in the water, but he got in there on his own, using the ladder and gleefully went through the entire lesson, listening to the instructors. I'm hopeful that he'll be swimming on his own by the end of the month. It…
Finished Objectives20 Jun 2015 | 7:06 pmI'll take good news wherever I can get it. I finished that pair of socks. It's Lana Grossa Meilenweit. One of my old favorites. My MIL brought this skein back from Austria for me, picking the perfect colorway. My Lana Grossa socks seemingly last forever, much more than my hand-dyed counterparts, note to self ;) I was at city council again this week hoping to see an innovative housing development pass. My city hasn't passed a high density housing development in decades. Heck, our region hasn't passed much in the way of housing in the last couple of decades, hence our current housing…
Gathering Beauty
Diy Paper Rosette Badges.31 Jul 2015 | 10:39 amI helped make a bunch of these diy paper rosette badges last week for a hen party and thought they'd make a great project to share here on the blog. Instead of a birthday message shown above we used a photo of the lovely Bride-to-be and put the date of the party on one of the paper tales hanging down.The finished badges ended up measuring 6.5 inches in circumference. I love the idea of giving someone a giant novelty badge for their birthday but if you want to make a smaller badge you can adjust the measurements below. This is one of those craft projects that's brilliant for using up all those…
3 Frozen Treats I'd Love To Make.29 Jul 2015 | 9:58 amLet's all cool down this summer with one of these delicious looking frozen treats.1. I'm obsessed with these strawberry, peaches and cream popsicles with amaretti from Top With Cinnamon.2. Gorgeous dairy free black forest popsicles. A classic flavour combination from from The Artful Desperado.3. I'd love to make these mixed berries and and yoghurt popsicles from The Merrythought.I don't know about you but I'm off to order my popsicle mould right now.
The Best Ever Chocolate Fudge Brownies.28 Jul 2015 | 8:18 amI have a love/hate relationship with chocolate fudge brownies. I love to eat them, hate to make them. Over the years I've tried to make them quite a few times and no matter what I do something always seems to go wrong. They're either too gooey or too dry, the edges go hard and crispy and they never, ever get that flaky top like they're meant to. Well, until now anyway.When we were visiting Brighton and the lovely Isla, you can find her gorgeous vintage Etsy shop Gold Dust in Our Hands here, she made us the most amazing brownies. They were dense and chewy and chocolatey and had the perfect…
My Favourite Creative Crafty Books.27 Jul 2015 | 11:59 amIt was grey and wet and windy this past weekend which meant I got to curl up on the couch and read. Today I thought I'd share of my favourite creative crafty books with you, some I love and own and some I'd love to own.1. Oh Joy! 60 Ways To Create & Give Joy. I'm a fan of Joy's blog Oh Joy! so I had high hopes for the book. It did not disappoint. It's filled with bright, colourful projects Recommended projects: Edible confetti, customizable pop-up wrap and mini photo block puzzle.2. Paper To Petal. This book is wonderful and packed full of gorgeous paper flower projects. I particularly…
Summer Mixtape.24 Jul 2015 | 10:39 amHappy Friday everybody.Here's some of the songs I've been listening to and loving so far this summer. I hope you love them too.Have a great weekend.
STASH YARN SHOP - Stashknits blog
TOO SMART FOR YOUR OWN GOOD?31 Jul 2015 | 5:49 amStuck on that sock? Can't make heads or tails of the directions for your hat? Don't blame your pattern just yet; you may be looking at the problem right now. New studies show that most people process text differently when reading on a smartphone, tablet, or computer vs. the printed page. In other words, WHAT you read ON has a big impact on how you understand what you are reading. Researchers have found that reading online encourages "non-linear reading," commonly known as skimming. Specifically, the study states that "screen-based reading behavior is…
LITTLE LAMB IN THE BIG CITY12 Jul 2015 | 10:36 amAs the next chapter of the Stash Select story unfolds, now seems like a good time to get to know some supporting characters a little better. Many of you will recognize this little gal from our kickstarter campaign, but young as she is, Joey has a backstory, not to mention some really WOW bling, courtesy of Julie, who makes jewelry. Which is as good a place to start as any. Julie Lamb (yes, that's really her name), is an independent jewelry designer who is as passionate about all things local New York (all her jewelry is created in New York's famous Diamond District) as we are…
kickin' it!5 Jun 2015 | 7:02 amSo this is pretty awesome. We're four days into the kickstarter campaign to bring Stash Select, our new all natural locally made yarn brand, to the shop this fall, and already all y'all have pushed the project to 35% of our funding goal! Thanks! One of the most popular rewards so far is the chance to name one of the new yarn colors, so I thought I'd share some of the color cards the mill is working on. The first thing you'll probably notice with great relief is that they are NOT all green. In fact, there will be a pretty wide range of 20 colors total in the first run, so whether you are…
Bella Crafts Publishing
Craft Retreat with Bella Crafts Connections29 Jul 2015 | 9:00 pmWe've been talking about it for weeks now. Bella Crafts Publishing™ is hosting the consumer craft retreat of the year. What makes the Bella Crafts Connections™ event so special? It is being brought to you by professional designers who know what YOU want in a craft retreat! So, if you're a crafter, this event is definitely for you! Bella Crafts Connections™ will be held at Mall of America®, located in Bloomington, Minnesota — only minutes from the MSP airport. As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, Mall of America® features 520 stores, 50…
Gone to the Beach Shadow Box27 Jul 2015 | 9:01 pmHi friends! This is Carmen back with you to continue our month-long Beach Theme projects. I've got a fun and easy project for you today. This beach shadow box makes a wonderful memories keepsake for summer vacations and perfect for a beach theme home decor. Awesome #craft #tutorial #shadowbox #crafts #paper #beachClick To Tweet Supplies: Art Minds Shadow Box – 8″ x 10″ opening Art Minds Crab shape wood 7Gypsies Maritime 2 sided paper pad #19508 7Gypsies Maritime Charms # 12691 Tattered Angels Paint Rose #22691 Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist Icicle Blue #16799…
Shadow Box Memories26 Jul 2015 | 9:00 pmRemember making shoe box dioramas in school when you were a kid? I thought it would be fun to make a grown-up version with my stash and a shadow box. A shadow box is like a 3-dimensional scrapbook layout to commemorate your favorite vacation, party or picnic. It's easy to make and it looks super cute standing on the coffee table or bookshelf, or even hanging on the wall. Any paper maché box with a lid can become a shadow box in just a couple minutes with the help of your trusty craft knife. Supplies: Paper maché box with lid Clear acetate sheet Scrapbook papers or cardstock…
Mixed Media 101: Easy Art Page22 Jul 2015 | 9:00 pmHello, my dear crafty friends and welcome to my new Bella Crafts post – Mixed Media 101: easy art page. Today I am going to show you a full Mixed Media art piece tutorial step by step. Usually, Mixed Media pieces are hard to teach: too many steps, too many mediums, and hard to understand steps. But for those who are totally new to art page/art journals/Mixed Media pieces, this tutorial is a kind of 101 and from here the sky is a limit. So here we go! Product list: Thick Mixed Media white cardstock -Ranger Decoupage medium-Earth Safe Finishes Gesso- ESF Gel Medium- ESF Stencils-…
Beachy Charm Bracelet20 Jul 2015 | 9:00 pmThis Beachy Charm Bracelet was inspired by the Beach, which is also the theme for the month at the Bella Blog. Spending time at the beach has also been a part of my life, as I live in California. Most of my favorite vacations have been at a beach location too. With this design, I opted for a softer more romantic look. To achieve that look, the colors I used were: brown, green patina, peach and cream. This bracelet has both a whimsical and soft look to it. Enjoy this tutorial, Lisa. To make your own Beachy Charm Bracelet you will need the following: Supplies: • Starfish Charm, Green Patina…
The Ribbon Retreat Blog
Rockin' Ribbon Giveaway28 Jul 2015 | 1:00 amAre you ready for a ROCKIN'…I mean rockin' giveaway? I know I am, and I can't wait for you to see what amazing prize or shall I say prizes is up for grabs! Here at The Ribbon Retreat, we LOVE to show off our amazing and absolutely adorable ribbon! So…we wanted to share our ribbon […]
Simple Bow, YouTube Thursday23 Jul 2015 | 1:00 amYay, it's video day! I am really excited to share this video with you today, because sometimes instead of a big bow, you just need a simple little bow that is tiny and petite. Today's Simple Bow video tutorial is just perfect for those little newborn heads, an embellishment for a little top, or a […]
Big Tulle Bow22 Jul 2015 | 1:00 amBig bows, big bows…who loves big bows? I surely do, and I think a lot of you might too! When my little girl was born, my siblings would always say that the bows I put on her head where bigger than her actual head. I would just laugh, because they are just crazy…maybe a little […]
Jumbo Tulle Hair Bow, YouTube Thursday16 Jul 2015 | 1:00 amHi Ribbon Retreat Readers and welcome back to YouTube Thursday! I am so excited to introduce today's big, bold and beautiful project and YouTube video tutorial! This Jumbo Tulle Hair Bow is sure to make a strong statement of cuteness, personality and pizzazz! I don't know about all of you, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE […]
Watermelon Tulle Wreath14 Jul 2015 | 1:00 amAn absolute staple in any summer family gathering in my husband's family is a great big watermelon. Yummmm! All of the kiddos absolutely love-ove-ove this popular summer fruit and that juicy melon usually doesn't last longer than a couple of minutes. But don't fret because with today's adorable Watermelon project, there will definitely be enough […]
About Family Crafts
How to Make a Duct Tape Pencil Case27 Jul 2015 | 6:39 amUsing duct tape is a great way to personalize back to school supplies, like I did with my Duct Tape Notebook. You can also use duct tape to create your own back to school supplies, like I did with this…Read more →
20 Fun Fish Crafts23 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amWe do a lot of fishing year round, how about you? While I was searching around for some new fish recipes to try, I stumbled across a few adorable fish related crafts that inspired me to try to find some…Read more →
10 Crafts Supplies to Avoid Using With Toddlers21 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amHopefully you read the article I wrote for Familycorner.com awhile ago… It was titled Toddler Craft Supplies: 10 Essential Things to Have on Hand. As the title explains, it is a collection of craft supplies that are great for toddlers.…Read more →
How to Make Sea Creatures Out of Egg Cartons13 Jul 2015 | 12:24 pmWhether you are planning a trip to the beach or aquarium, you just may see plenty of sea creatures but probably not any as adorable as these sea creature made out of egg carton cups! To make any or all…Read more →
DIY Burlap BBQ Decorations7 Jul 2015 | 8:19 amRemember the burlap craft challenge I introduced several days ago? I have been having a lot of fun crafting with my burlap treasures! This project was actually inspired by my friend Sarah, from Our Daily Craft. When I posted on…Read more →
Teach Love Craft
DIY Bookcase from Craft Crates13 Jul 2015 | 5:00 amRemember a while ago when I was distressing craft crates? I wanted the crates to look weathered and old? Well, it was to make a DIY bookcase out of craft crates. The boys' book situation was getting out of control, and I wanted a bookshelf that wasfunctional, inexpensive, and pleasing to the eye. This DIY fit the bill. I bought each crate for about $6 (withJoAnn's coupons, of course), so before I bought the casters to be screwed on the bottom of the crates, this bookshelf only cost my $36. Liquid Nail was my bff for this project. No tutorial is really needed. I…
Ideas for displaying Kids' Artwork6 Jul 2015 | 11:31 amBetween school and home, my two boys are constantly creating masterpieces. With the constant influx of painted paper, cardboard box sculptures, and pipecleaner statues, my smallish house was getting smaller. So I came (and researched) up with some ideas for displaying kids' artwork. Here are some of the ideas for displaying kids' artwork that I have employed. Gallery Walls I love the splash of color their artwork brings to the room. A touch of whimsy and something much more personal than a framed reproduction. Not to mention the boys love that their work is on…
Face the Wall-Gallery Wall8 Jun 2015 | 3:30 amLast you've heard, we've made some progress in L's room. With some of the more dire projects around the house out of the way (more on those later), I am finally ready to add some fun and color to that big empty wall above her dresser. The plan is to add a mirror and fill the rest of the wall space with lots of bright art work that are inspired by L. I've started a collection of DIY pieces like this and this (more on those later), but I needed more. So I've been scavenging the Internet for unique and affordable prints to add to my collection. Then, I came across…
Framed Chalkboard Art9 Apr 2015 | 2:52 amIf you have been keeping up with Teachlovecraft, then you know how much I love seasonal decor (check out my March, Easter, Flag Day, and Fall mantel ). Swapping decor gives a little brightness to the doldrums of winter. Plus it always feels like I'm decorating for a party- a celebration of the next season/holiday–and who doesn't love a party? Another piece of my seasonal decorating is the use of chalkboard art. I, along with a million others, love a gorgeous framed chalkboard. It might be the teacher in me, my love of handwriting, my affinity for word, or all of…
Big Girl Room Progress16 Mar 2015 | 4:22 amIn this post I shared my plans for L's big girl room in the new house. Since we moved in two months ago, we've been busy completing projects day and night (mostly at night after L is in bed). I thought I'd share the progress we've made in her big girl room so far. We decided to use L's nursery furniture until she's ready for a big girl bed. The paint color on the wall is Benjamin Moore Foggy Morning. Originally, I was set on a neutral tone, but I couldn't resist this shade of pale pink. It does have a beige undertone which makes it appear neutral in…
How To Organize Your Kitchen Drawers14 Jul 2015 | 6:49 pmI can never seem to have enough room in my kitchen. I keep tossing things in my kitchen drawers until there is no more room. If your kitchen is like mine it could use some organization. So here are some great tips I found useful and now my kitchen drawers are nice and neat! […] The post How To Organize Your Kitchen Drawers appeared first on SEWlicious Home decor.com.
Quick and Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Mint Oreo Cookie Desserts13 May 2015 | 8:37 amHello everyone! Today I'm over at Club Chica sharing my recipes for the easy and delicious No Bake Peanut Butter dessert! Hop over there to see how easy it is to make….but check out my other recipes before you leave! If your life sometimes gets a little hectic and you don't have a lot of time […] The post Quick and Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Mint Oreo Cookie Desserts appeared first on SEWlicious Home decor.com.
Creamy No Bake Lemon Meringue Pies12 Apr 2015 | 4:48 pmThese easy {no-bake} Lemon Meringue Pies are perfect for a Summer dessert. They are quick, creamy, and full of delicious lemon flavor. No need to spend time over the hot stove for these pies!There's no baking at all! They make a perfect Summer back yard dessert everyone will love! Have you tried Lemon Oreo's? That's […] The post Creamy No Bake Lemon Meringue Pies appeared first on SEWlicious Home decor.com.
Scrapbook Paper Cereal Box Organizers10 Apr 2015 | 7:04 amI'm at Club ChicaCircle today sharing how to make these organizers using cereal boxes! Organizing is one thing I love to do. I'm always adding things to my craft room because I am a garage sale freeeeak! So I needed a way to organize everything without spending lots of $$$ on organizers. I made these […] The post Scrapbook Paper Cereal Box Organizers appeared first on SEWlicious Home decor.com.
Grandparents New Baby Arrival Countdown24 Mar 2015 | 9:18 pmKeep track of when your new grandbaby (or baby) is going to arrive with this countdown made from a recycled milk carton! My daughter is expecting her first baby, my first grandbaby, and he will be here in 7 weeks! Where did the time go? It has gone by so fast. We all […] The post Grandparents New Baby Arrival Countdown appeared first on SEWlicious Home decor.com.
Keeping it Real
Scraps of Yarn July Crochet Along - finished!31 Jul 2015 | 8:12 amLast night I finally managed to finish the July scraps of yarn crochet along challenge posted by Joanita over at Creative Crochet Toys. And just in time to show it off before the end of the month!Although I'm sure it would great as a regular pillow, reading Joanita's post I realized that her original idea was to make a pajama pillow.Since my daughter is always very keen of putting away her pajamas every morning, I decided to give her this pillow cover for her to store her pajamas during the day.It's a bit too big (since I assume it was originally thought as an adult pajama pillow) but it…
No clutter in 2015: week 30 update30 Jul 2015 | 10:32 amOK, so I'm glad to report that I've accomplished almost everything I set out to do last week! I've cleaned out and straightened the guest room, got rid of the last bag of items marked for donation and we also started painting the living room (ran out of paint in the meantime, so we need to get more to finish the ceiling before painting the walls).As for craft projects, the only thing I finished were the scented ornaments, but since I had started them before Christmas last year and then left them half made on top of a pile of similarly fated projects, I guess they count as decluttering…
(Almost) Wordless Wednesday 29/July29 Jul 2015 | 2:04 amWelcome to the last wordless wedesnday of July!We've been taking advantage of the good weather as much as we can, so last weekend we took off to the beach again. This time we went to Tróia, a peninsula less than an hour to the south of Lisbon. We spent some time at the beach and then, in the evening, we decided to use the ferry to return home. The kids loved it, and we got to watch the sunset from the ferry, which was awesome! Enjoy the rest of your week!
Christmas in July - DIY Scented Ornaments27 Jul 2015 | 4:20 amDid you notice that July is almost over? And that Christmas is right around the corner? Well, it is. And because I always like to make a lot of handmade gifts, I have to start early. A couple of weeks ago, I discovered Patience Brewster and decided to join them in celebrating Christmas in July! And so scented ornaments came to be!Patience Brewster is a wonderful artist and designer of handmade gifts and ornaments. It you're not familiar with Patience, check out her website. They are known for their whimsical ornaments, but me being me, I also loved their stationery collections!Anyway,…
No clutter in 2015: week 29 update23 Jul 2015 | 4:15 amMy house is a mess. Not what you expected to read in a decluttering post, right? But it's the truth and since I named this blog Keeping it Real, I'm doing exactly that. We had friends staying with us last weekend, so we spent most of the time out of the house, showing them around or lounging at the beach. They left Sunday night, I went back to work on Monday morning and the guest room is still turned upside down. Not to mention that the guest room doubles as my craft room, but as they were staying there, I had to hide all my craft supplies, pile of unfinished projects, and even the…
Precious Crafts
I Love Crochet30 Jul 2015 | 4:27 pm"CROCHET is a process of creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn, thread, or strands of other materials using a crochet hook." – Wikipedia Whoever first created the art of crochet and those who further developed crochet throughout the ages and into the future, and to all those who continue giving life to this art – I thank you all. And to those who shared their creativity at crocheting – may you continue to create and may God give you more, and more ideas so that crochet will prosper. Take, for example, this lapghan which I recently completed: Made this…
How to Service Janome Harmony 2049 Sewing Machine29 Jul 2015 | 2:20 amI purchased my Janome Harmony 2049 sewing machine way back in 2006. Since then till now, I have only brought it for service at the Epal centre twice. I use it only occasionally, and for me, it's perfect. It's easy to use, portable and handy to have around the house. So far, my Janome sewing machine has helped me to make 3 curtains, a few simple totes, a simple sofa cover, coasters, simple mending, etc. Roughly speaking, I guess I only use it about once or twice a month. Lately, in my quest to broaden my crafting horizons, I have been quite zealous at getting myself…
Crochet Headbands and More17 Jun 2015 | 7:45 pmRamadhan has arrived and I'm excited to expand my horizons! After I completed the CAL Granny Square Pillow Cover, I still had lots of leftover budget yarns. So I made this headband using a free pattern from Craftsy. And with the various colours of budget yarns, I made these little flowers which is easily interchangeable. So, 1 headband, with a few looks! I am currently working on another headband and flower, so that with 2 headbands and 3 flowers, I can get 6 looks! Interchangeable Florals Then I also made these little handphone cases and some more – using yarns of various…
Gifts for Teacher Appreciation Day – Hari Guru 201513 May 2015 | 12:45 amOMG – I almost forgot Hari Guru! Have you prepared gifts for Teacher Appreciation Day / Hari Guru 2015? I'm still in the middle of figuring out what to give and seeing that it's only 3 days away, they must be something that can be prepared in a jiffy… This year, Hari Guru which is on 16 May 2015, falls on a Saturday. There will be some forms of celebration in each schools (not necessarily this Saturday, it could be on any day fixed by the school), including performances and sports competition by teachers. Last year, I gave each of my kids' favourite teachers…
More Yarns To Crochet12 May 2015 | 1:48 amCompared to previous years, I'm having fun trying out various types of crochet yarns these past few months – totally neglecting my cross stitch projects, unfortunately. It's really great fun getting to use yarns of different types and weights, and also getting to use various sizes of crochet hooks. I'm really, really yearning to get myself those wonderful Tulip Etimo or Clover Amure crochet hook sets – need to start saving for those! After getting myself some Nyamnyam Yarns, I continued adding to my humble collection of crochet yarns. I bought some Korean…
Woo Hoo Cuties
A set of screw back earrings a real vintage jewel28 Jul 2015 | 6:04 amDo you dress up your outfit with a set of earrings, the modern "jewellery staple"? Are they your glam fashion statement, or have your pierced holes gradually resealed, because you stopped wearing them? Maybe you are on of the very few, having no pierced holes in your ears? We all know an old aunt with elongated ear lobes, because of the weight of a lifetime wearing earrings, or the saucy girl wearing hoops as a bold statement. The choice is abundant: droplet earrings, hoop earrings, stud earrings, chandelier earrings, button earrings, dangle earrings and even safety pins! The most classic…
Ori-Gin-al summer aperitif Gin based20 Jul 2015 | 6:41 amA long way from being sold only at the chemist's, being the poor people's favourite drink: gin, the spirit of the past, is the newest hype with die-hard fans. Yes, my friends, GIN is IN, it's the bartender's favourite! And no, I'm not offering another gin tonic recipe, but a smooth, refreshing gin cocktail for a warm summer day, let me surprise you. Do you want to find out the best gin for your cocktail, well the best way to taste gins for comparison, is at room temperature, diluted with an equal measure of water. Both qualities and flaws will be revealed. Sweet pine and soft citrus…
Our Ktembe aperitif "the" red wine of summer17 Jul 2015 | 5:16 amTo drink or not to drink an odd combination, is the question I guess. But our guilty pleasure is drinking a "Ktembe", a South African aperitif known to my husband, on sunny summer days on our terrace. You see, in his young days my husband was in South Africa, he started off his trip in Fort Williams and travelled down Garden Root, to end down in Cape Town. At a wedding of his nephew Robert, he was offered an unusual aperitif and afterwards he discovered it was offered everywhere over there. A nice refreshing drink it is indeed and super simple to make! Watch out: it tends to go down…
Philadelphia cheese cake with speculoos12 Jul 2015 | 8:00 pmWhen having visitors in summer, we tend to swap good recipes and try them out. I'm not very keen on sweet dessert or dessert in general, but I do have one recipe that's worth sharing with all of you. I used to make it with my friend Miek for our children. The recipe leaflet was once included in a Philadelphia cheese packet as a promotion stunt. We tried it out and it became our absolute favourite! This recipe is based on Lotus Philadelphia spread cheese but also on "speculoos", a shortcrust biscuit, which in Belgium is a traditional gift for the feast of St Nicholas on the 6th of…
Woohoolicious Plum Jam and Plum Clafoutis10 Jul 2015 | 4:50 amLast year, with no knowledge at all of how to, we pruned our plum tree, with as result: a non-fruit bearing tree that year. But our sturdy wild plum tree, doesn't see this as a set back, in the excruciating heat we have here at the moment, it decided to produce an extra load of plums this year. Seeing its green foliage filled with yellow dots, we knew jam making was ahead, even with temperatures of 35° in the shade (on the terrace). Luckily we have my daughter, her family and a friend, all of them willing to volunteer harvesting our plums. Mind you in a grape producing country I am not…
Scarf Knitting
Stress-Free Knitting Patterns27 Jul 2015 | 4:31 pmSummertime and the living is easy! Well, I don't know about that, but it is deep into summer and who wants to think about taking on any kind of complicated knitting project?Just stress-free knitting patterns is what I like in mid-summer. You know the ones I'm talking about; with charts that are 50 rows long and numerous knitting stitches that you need to review on YouTube, just to remember how to knit them! Yes? When it's hot outside, you want to be comfortable wherever you are. That includes taking on your knitting, too. Find those patterns that are easy to knit, east to…
Shine a Light, Knitting Bright24 Jul 2015 | 11:31 amBefore we made the move BACK to New Jersey in 2013, my husband and I lived in Pike County, PA, which is in the extreme northeast corner of the state. Beautiful, rural, with roads that lead you to places you've never seen before and may never see again. We lived in a small association where each home had between 3 and 4 acres of land between. Most of that land was still given over to woods, or large portions were covered in brambles and ferns. There was really no "plan" to go out and clear any of those trees from your property; it was just too pretty as you looked around…
Blocking Lessons I Learned BEFORE It Was Too Late15 Jul 2015 | 7:02 amBlocking lessons I learned before it was too late. So nice! You've finally finished that sweater or block afghan. Methodically, you've put all of the pieces together, being EVER so careful. Sleeves fit perfectly into the body pieces and initially, your knitted blocks "seem" to be connecting okay. Then suddenly, everything looks wrong! Nothing is lining up OR what you have knitted and sewn together is hanging DREADFULLY! Now what do you do? :\ First ask yourself this question: did I block my knitting? If you've never heard of this term before, it is…
5 Reasons To Buy Knitting Yarn Now9 Jul 2015 | 12:15 pm5 reasons to buy knitting yarn now! Wow, this week flew by! One day it's Monday then it's the weekend again. When you're busy time passes quickly. I'm sort of in a limbo this week; in-between writing assignments and waiting to hear back with new work. So, it's been back to organizing my knitting life. Also, my home office is in desperate need of a re-do. I'll wait for August to tackle that; I'm in no mood now that I've found numerous knitting projects once again to rip up a spare bedroom until then. We live in a great country. That being said,…
Our Daily Craft » Our Daily Craft
Frugal Family Linky July 3030 Jul 2015 | 4:51 amI'm on vacation this week, but I wanted to still be able to give people the opportunity to link up if they happen to link up via my site (and thank you if you do!). Please go visit my co-hosts to check out their top picks from last week, and we'll be back with the top picks of the month next week. This Week's Linky As usual, the Frugal Family Linky is brought to you by: Witty Hoots – Celebrating Family Home Life with a Smile – Family orientated lifestyle website with a focus on activities for families with children of all ages. Peakle Pie – Creative Ideas…
On-the-Fly Pillowcase Top Not-a-Tutorial28 Jul 2015 | 8:28 amOne of the ways I like to learn things is to kind of get myself in over my head and see what happens. Last week's Iron Craft challenge, which I totally missed, was to create something blue. I had this great blue batik fabric I knew I wanted to use. I wanted to make a beach cover but there was not enough fabric. I discovered there was enough — and a little extra — to wrap around my body so I decided I wanted to make a sort of pillowcase top for myself. Not finding a pattern like what I was looking for, I decided to wing it. This is not a tutorial because I was designing at…
Notions: Summer STEM27 Jul 2015 | 7:38 amI don't usually think of activities as being related to STEM, because we bring science, technology, math and engineering into our lives pretty naturally. The girl is a self-described "sciencey girl," she loves space and building and math challenges. But while science comes up commonly in conversation around here, we don't always specifically plan to do science activities. Which is a shame, because I'm sure she and we would find them really fun. So in the interest of building our catalog of summer STEM activities I bring you this roundup. Lemon Lime Adventures has…
Frugal Family Linky July 2323 Jul 2015 | 6:20 amHello, friends! If you're not a regular visitor here on non-linky days, I want to make sure you check out my post from yesterday about how you can get up to 30 free Scholastic books for your home library or to donate around by buying select Kellogg's products (yes, it's a sponsored post, but it's also really cool). OK, then, back to the business at hand! This Week's Featured Posts We haven't gotten to the point of giving the girl an allowance yet, though she does sometimes get a little change for helping with chores. I really enjoyed reading this post from…
Get Free Books for Your Kids or Your Class with Kellogg's21 Jul 2015 | 9:56 amThis shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #Back2SchoolReady #CollectiveBias We are a family that loves to read. That's pretty well documented. The girl is starting to want to read books on her own, and we're always picking up new books at the library and buying books pretty regularly, too. I want to do everything I can to encourage a love of reading in her and we love to share our love of reading with others, too. When the school year ended we gathered up some of the easy readers that are a little too easy for her and…
Repeat Crafter Me
DIY T-Shirt Crafts Book Release and Giveaway!31 Jul 2015 | 9:39 amI need to brag about a good friend. Adrianne Surian of Happy Hour Projects has been one of my best blogging buddies since our blogs were in their infancy. I am not exaggerating when I say I talk to her on almost a daily basis! A lot of work goes on behind the scenes of a blog and she's been a mentor, a cheerleader, a huge support to me for many years. So when she told me she was signing a contract with a publishing company to write a book I was beyond ecstatic for her! I wanted to scream it from the rooftops! She put so much work into this and DIY T-Shirt Crafts is now…
Crochet Corner to Corner (C2C) Baby Sheep Graphgan30 Jul 2015 | 5:40 pmI successfully finished my first Corner to Corner (C2C) Graphgan! The C2C works up much quicker than the pixel square blanket and the bobble stitch blanket so it's a great option for those of you who want to give pixel crochet a try. In this post I am going to give you the basics about creating a C2C blanket. There is no specific pattern to follow, you create these afghans by following a pixel graph, working from the bottom right hand corner, row by row, until you get the top left hand corner!What you need to re-create the Baby Sheep C2C Graphgan:- Baby Sheep Graph. This graph will cost…
Crochet Basketball Rug24 Jul 2015 | 11:40 amI got my hands on some of the new larger Clover Amour Crochet Hooks and they are so fun to work with and pair perfectly with super chunky yarn! I created a quick and easy basketball rug from my sons sports themed room using two strands of bulky yarn and the P/Q 15mm hook. Much larger than your typical hook, but so comfortable and light! This project works up extremely quickly and there are so many options for embellishments. Think baseball, soccer, or just a fun multi-colored circle rug. Stay tuned for a girly version for my daughters room!Materials:- Clover Amour P/Q 15mm Crochet…
Starbucks Core Coffee Series and Crochet Coffee Coasters19 Jul 2015 | 1:14 pmSome things go well together: peanut butter and jelly, bacon and eggs, bees and honey, and my favorite COFFEE & CROCHET! Starbucks happened to take notice of my love for coffee and sent me some samples of their Core Coffee Series! I frequently stay up late crocheting "just one more row" so this mom of 3 needs multiple cups of coffee to make it through the day :) Of course there is nothing I love more than enjoying my coffee along with a little crochet time. I whipped up some fun crochet coffee mug coasters that would be perfect for a hostess gift and would also work as an appliqué.
Perler Bead Stitch Markers15 Jul 2015 | 2:57 pmCreate your own stitch markers with this quick and crafty tutorial! Made out of perler beads (also called fusion beads and hama beads), each one has the crochet hook letter size so if you put down your crochet project for awhile, you will always know which hook to use when you do get around to picking it back up.Materials:- Perler beads and plates (square and hexagon plates for the ones pictured)- Iron- Parchment paper- Lobster clasps- Jump rings Start by creating your letter formations as seen below. I found it easiest to place beads in plates with tweezers.The G and J (and other…
Knitting Stitch Patterns
Garter Block28 Jul 2015 | 9:54 amKnitted in a multiple of 10 sts + 5 and 12-row repeat.Row 1 and all right side rows: Knit.Row 2: K5, * p5, k5; repeat from * to end.Row 4: K5, * p5, k5; repeat from * to end.Row 6: K5, * p5, k5; repeat from * to end.Row 8: P5, * k5, p5; repeat from * to end.Row 10: P5, * k5, p5; repeat from * to end.Row 12: P5, * k5, p5; repeat from * to end.Knitting abbreviations:K: Knit | P: Purl
Block #228 Jul 2015 | 9:33 amBlock - Pattern 1Knitted a multiple of 10 sts + 3 and 14-row repeat.Row 1 - right side: K3, * p7, k3; repeat from * to end.Row 2 and all wrong side rows: Purl.Row 3: K3, * p7, k3; repeat from * to end.Row 5: K3, * p7, k3; repeat from * to end.Row 7: K3, * p7, k3; repeat from * to end.Row 9: K3, * p7, k3; repeat from * to end.Row 11: P3, * k7, p3; repeat from * to end.Row 13: P3, * k7, p3; repeat from * to end.Row 14: Purl.Knitting abbreviations:K: Knit | P: Purl
Block28 Jul 2015 | 9:15 amKnitted in a multiple of 12 sts + 1 and 16-row repeat.Row 1 - right side: Knit.Row 2: Purl.Row 3: K3, * p7, k5; repeat from * to last 10 sts, p7, k3.Row 4: P3, * k7, p5; repeat from * to last 10 sts, k7, p3.Row 5: Knit.Row 6: Purl. Row 7: K3, * p7, k5; repeat from * to last 10 sts, p7, k3.Row 8: P3, * k7, p5; repeat from * to last 10 sts, k7, p3.Row 9: KnitRow 10: Purl.Row 11: P4, * k5, p7; repeat from * to last 9 sts, k5, p4.Row 12: K4, * p5, k7; repeat from * to last 9 sts, p5, k4.Row 13: Knit.Row 14: Purl.Row 15: P4, * k5, p7; repeat from * to last 9 sts, k5, p4.Row 16: K4, * p5, k7;…
Lattice with Seed Stitch28 Jul 2015 | 7:44 amKnitted in a multiple of 14 sts+ 2 and 18-rows repeat.Row 1 - right side: Knit.Rows 2, 4, and 6: P2, * (k1, p1) 3 times, p1; repeat from * to end.Rows 3, 5, and 7: K3, * p1, k1, p1, k4; repeat from * to last 6 sts, p1, k1, p1, k3.Row 8: P2, * k12, p2; repeat from * to end.Row 9: K2, * p12, k2; repeat from * to end.Row 10: Purl.Rows 11, 13, and 15: K2, * (p1, k1) 3 times, k1; repeat from * to end.Rows 12, 14. and 16: P3, * k1, p1, k1, p4; repeat from * to last 6 sts, p1, k1, p1, k3.Row 17: P7, * k2, p12; repeat from * to last 9 sts, k2, p7.Row 18: K7, * p2, k12; repeat from * to last 9…
Openwork Diamonds - Pattern 228 Apr 2015 | 10:20 pmKnitted in a multiple of 10 sts, + 6 and 16-row repeat.Row 1 - right side: K3, k2tog, * yo, k1, yo, ssk, k5, k2tog; repeat from * to last st, yo, k1.Row 2 and wrong side rows: Purl all sts.Row 3: K2, k2tog, * yo, k3, yo, ssk, k3, k2tog; repeat from * to last 2 sts, yo, k2.Row 5: K1, k2tog, * yo, k2tog, yo, k1, (yo, ssk) twice, k1, k2Tog; repeat from * to last 3 sts, yo, k2tog, yo, k1Row 7: K2tog, * yo, k2tog, yo, k3, yo, ssk, yo, k3tog; repeat from * to last 4 sts, yo, k2tog, yo, k2.Row 9: K1, yo, * ssk, k5, k2tog, yo, k1, yo; repeat from * to last 5 sts, ssk, k3.Row 11: K2, yo, * ssk,…
Bread & With It
Baked Eggs on Spinach28 Jul 2015 | 7:00 amAfter a beautiful and productive summer, I join you once again for a food-a-licious blog post. This summer we traveled, family visited, we swam, biked, ran, played, laughed, cried and bonded to our heart's content. With all these beautiful memories we made, the one thing that I know, for sure, helped me survive the rushed mornings and … Continue reading Baked Eggs on Spinach → The post Baked Eggs on Spinach appeared first on Bread & With It.
6-21-201521 Jun 2015 | 7:00 amHappy Father's Day all you dads out there! Here is a one-of-a-kind piece of toddler art for our favorite dad! Email Address The post 6-21-2015 appeared first on Bread & With It.
Strawberry Ice-cream4 Jun 2015 | 7:00 amThe strawberry fields opened up near our house, and guess what we did! We went strawberry picking! Oh yes! With what was leftover after making several batches of strawberry jam and strawberry syrup for our pancakes, we made fresh strawberry ice-cream. Strawberry ice-cream during strawberry season is the best! This dairy free vegan recipe is not … Continue reading Strawberry Ice-cream → The post Strawberry Ice-cream appeared first on Bread & With It.
Quick Cinnamon Rolls2 Jun 2015 | 7:00 amWomen in the 1930's knew how long it takes to make cinnamon rolls, so they came up with a quick solution! Take pride in quick, homemade & from scratch! The post Quick Cinnamon Rolls appeared first on Bread & With It.
6-1-20151 Jun 2015 | 11:29 amYou know you are loved, when you get Torch & Ramekins for your Birthday! <3 Loved Email Address The post 6-1-2015 appeared first on Bread & With It.
DIY Candy
Mini Rope DIY Planters31 Jul 2015 | 6:01 amA couple weeks ago, a friend of mine dropped off this cute little cactus on my doorstep. It was such a fun little gift! Of course, I decided I needed to make a little planter for it. These mini rope DIY planters are so easy, add some extra color to my window sill, and cost less than $1 each to make!...Read the rest here . . . »
Make a Simple Felt DIY Wreath30 Jul 2015 | 7:24 amWreaths are one of my very favorite things to craft. Not only are they fun to make, but they look so great hanging not just on the front door, but anywhere I need a little color and texture. Seriously, I probably have about five wreaths on or over various surfaces of my home. And, now, I have one...Read the rest here . . . »
No Churn Cupcake Ice Cream Recipe29 Jul 2015 | 10:06 amI've never been able to make the commitment to cabinet space for an ice cream maker that I'd only use in summertime. But I do love ice cream, and I definitely love a good shortcut in the kitchen. Luckily, making ice cream without an ice cream maker {no-churn} couldn't be easier!...Read the rest here . . . »
Mod DIY Spice Jars with Chalkboard Strip29 Jul 2015 | 8:57 amHello gals (and guys)! I'm Aki from Minted Strawberry and I'm sharing a really easy project for you to whip up in no time today! I have labeling problems and I love pretty jars. Recently I went to the dollar store in search for containers for my Indian food spices. We already have a...Read the rest here . . . »
Overnight Coconut Oil Hair Mask28 Jul 2015 | 5:11 pmHey it's Megan from Homemade Ginger and I'm back to share a super quick and easy coconut oil hair mask recipe. It's summer and I know my hair gets dry from all of the swimming and sun. You also might be trying to grow your hair out like I am (I had a bad haircut experience a few...Read the rest here . . . »
Mod Podge Rocks!
DIY bracelet – quick makeover with glitter and Mod Podge29 Jul 2015 | 8:55 amToday I'm sharing a simple makeover on an old piece of jewelry I have. I've had this piece for probably 10 years now. I just haven't worn it in forever. But for some reason I've never tossed it.So I thought I would give it a quick makeover for my friends little girl to play...Read the rest here . . . »
Easy DIY photo display28 Jul 2015 | 7:55 pmHi! It's David from Cheltenham Road.Do you find that your not-as-DIY-inclined friends tend to ask you to make them things? Mine do and I'm usually up for the challenge as it often makes me think a bit outside my own sandbox.When my friend Aimee pulled me into a local home store, pointed...Read the rest here . . . »
Stock up for back-to-school – win $500 to Amazon.com!28 Jul 2015 | 12:50 pmCan you believe it's almost time to think about back-to-school? Back-to-school doesn't just mean getting kids out of the house; it also means purchasing tons of school supplies. If you have several children . . . it can break the bank!I've teamed up with a group of amazing bloggers...Read the rest here . . . »
Dollar store crafts: glittered tealight holder27 Jul 2015 | 5:22 amOn a recent trip to the Dollar Tree I found these cute tealight candle holders in a pack of three. I knew these would be a perfect craft to use some Mod Podge on and fancy them up!I of course was excited to pull out some of my glitter for this dollar store craft. If you know me then you know I just...Read the rest here . . . »
Amy Butler "Grow" DIY wall hanging26 Jul 2015 | 1:09 pmI have always been a fan of Amy Butler's designs! I've used her papers many times on various projects over the years, and I LOVE her fabrics and sewing patterns. Amy can pretty much do no wrong in my mind, so when I received her new book Amy Butler Decoupage: Fresh, Decorative Projects...Read the rest here . . . »
Extreme Cards and Papercrafting
Beautiful Free and Sale Fonts10 Jul 2015 | 8:12 amAh, fonts. Who doesn't love a beautiful font? What's all the rage? Samantha, Samantha, Samantha. Yes, it's everywhere! Yes, it's endlessly useful! Yes, I'm ready to see something different! Do I have a deal for you! Check out The Summer Bundle from The Hungry JPEG. TWENTY NINE fonts, $1 apiece. That's 95% off, until the end of July. You get everything you see and more--ALL the
Support the arts!7 Jul 2015 | 2:31 pmIf you've been reading my blog for a while, you may know that my older daughter has graduated from art school and is a freelance illustrator. Over the years you have occasionally seen her work (and when she was very young, her hands holding things while I took the pictures). Scroll down and see if you remember her drawings! Here's the exciting news. One of her illustrations was recently chosen
Fireworks Chysanthemum July 4th Card28 Jun 2015 | 10:44 amInspired by a card by Kagi Sippo (which looks like it is hand colored--or maybe created from paint chips--and hand cut) I went looking for a suitable layered flower file to make a similar exploding fireworks card. I didn't find one, so I drew one! The result is...okay. My flowers / fireworks lack the subtle color variations in the layers, and I wish the card stock were shiny. I threw a
Tiny Pleated Star23 Jun 2015 | 12:29 pmIf you enjoyed making the larger (3") pleated star, try this one! It is tiny, but it's not ridiculously tiny. Perfect to use in a grouping on the front of a card or as a scrapbook embellishment. Suitable for hand or machine cutting. Click to download file set: Silhouette Studio, PDF, DXF, SVG (how to use my SVG files in Cricut Design Space). Files download for free. A huge thank
Pleated Heart Embellishment17 Jun 2015 | 2:34 pmI'm sure I re-invented the wheel when I designed this file. Mostly, it was an exercise to help me understand how to create shapes in pleated form. See this post for a pleated star (and scroll to the bottom to learn how to make any pleated shape). How to make an accordion pleated heart Suitable for hand or machine cutting. Click to download file set: Silhouette Studio, PDF, DXF, SVG (
ACTÍVA Products - Projects
Birds of a Feather Using Color Plus Air Dry Clay14 Jul 2015 | 4:29 pmCreate these one of a kind feathered friends by using Color Plus air dry clay. No need for a kiln as they dry to an extremely durable finish. No paint is needed as the clay is colored! Materials needed:Color Plus air dry clay in red, yellow and black for both the black and red birdCotton sheeting, cut into 8" x 8" squaresA small cup of waterWooden skewer or needle toolACTÍVA Product's Clay Roller kitDrill and 1/8" drill bit 18 gauge craft wireWire cuttersNeedle nose pliersHammer and anvilEmory boardTwo part epoxy glue Clear acrylic spray to seal 1. To make the red bird, pinch off two…
Color Plus Air Dry Clay Sunflower7 Jul 2015 | 4:21 pmThis air dry clay sunflower is sure to brighten any day! Materials needed: Color Plus air dry clay in yellow and black ACTÍVA Product's Clay Roller kit Cotton sheeting cut into 3 8" x 8" squares A small cup of water Wooden skewer or needle tool Pattern for circles 1" and 1 ¾" (think quarter or bottle tops) Burlap ribbon Rectangular glass vase Hot glue gun ACTÍVA Product's colored sand in green Clear acrylic spray to seal 1. Condition the yellow clay in your hands by kneading and lightly spraying with water if it is dry. It should be smooth and pliable when you are finished.
CelluClay Surfboard Treasure Box Designed by Lisa Fulmer for Activa Products6 Jul 2015 | 1:24 pmThis cute and colorful paper maché box is sturdy enough to hold all sorts of little treasures! Use it for jewelry on your nightstand, paper clips or pushpins on your desk, or even Q-tips in the bathroom. The best part is knowing you sculpted it yourself! Supplies: Activa CelluClay Non-stick work mat Wood skewer, water mister bottle Printed Duck Tape® brand duct tape Dimensional adhesive stickers Cardboard, pencil, fine-grit sanding block Plastic bag, waxed dental floss, baker's cooling rack Scissors with non-stick blades 1. Draw or trace a surfboard shape (approx. 10" tall) on…
Wedding Candy Bar Decoration Using Color Plus Air Dry Clay6 Jul 2015 | 12:20 pmCandy bars are so much fun at weddings, birthday parties or just to say "I love you". Put a personalized message on each jar of candy for that special day! Materials needed: Color Plus air dry clay in red and white ACTÍVA Product's Clay Roller kit Cotton sheeting cut into 8" x 8" squares A small cup of water Wooden skewer or needle tool Alphabet stamp set Heart pattern and small heart cookie cutter Pink ribbon Apothecary jar Clear acrylic spray to seal Instructions: 1. Cut off a piece of both the white and the red clay about the size of a large walnut. Take equal amounts of…
Surfboard Trophy - Designed by Lisa Fulmer for ACTIVA Products1 Jul 2015 | 9:41 pmSurf's up - time to hang ten, dude! A surfboard is an iconic symbol of summer fun at the beach. If you aren't lucky enough to be one of the Hollywood celebrities who get their own surfboard trophies from the annual Teen Choice Awards, you can have a blast making your own miniature surfboard trophy with ACTIVA Air-Dry Clay. Stand your surfboard up on your desk or bookshelf so you'll feel like you're riding those waves all year long…and no wipe-outs! Supplies:• ACTIVA Plus Air-Dry Clay• Non-stick work mat• Wood skewer, palette knife, water mister bottle• Rolling pin•…
Smitha Katti
DIY nightstand makeover: Before and After30 Jul 2015 | 8:00 pmA step by step tutorial showing you how to do a DIY nightstand makeover. Take something old and upscale it into something you would find in a boutique! You will need- chalk paint, gold or copper foil, adhesive and sealer for the foil, stencil, wood filler, sander de glosser, scrub, and brushes. Step 1: I sanded the nightstand down using some Sander deglosser with a scrub. Think of it as removing nail polish- and scrub lightly all over to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere onto. Step 2: Place stencil on top of the drawer front and position it where you want. The stencil…
DIY Summer Craft Projects28 Jul 2015 | 6:50 amSummer is here and the sun is out shining and if you are looking for a few DIY Summer Craft Projects for yourself, here are four that I recently wrote for the Fiskars website- 1. An Easy, simple Pillowcase Dress for the little girl in your life. Find my tutorial here 2. A light and comfortable Picnic Quilt. Perfect to carry around to the park or outdoor event. Find my tutorial here. 3. A perfect gift basket for a friend – Smores for the win! Find my tutorial here. 4. Color+Felt make for a cute bag that can keep all of your kids stuff. Perfect for a road trip or a trip to the mall. Find…
How to stencil on fabric with acrylic paints26 Jul 2015 | 1:57 amToday I am sharing a tutorial with some tips and tricks on how to stencil on fabric A stencil, Acrylic paint, Paint brush and fabric of your choice. I chose to use a Back to Basics tote bag today. Optional supplies: Easy Tack spray and Dimensional fabric paint. Step 1: Spray the back of your stencil lightly with some repositionable adhesive. This adhesive is lightly tacky and holds the stencil onto the fabric while you work. This way the stencil will not shift its position while you are working on it. Step 2: Position your stencil onto your fabric. Today I am using the Roped Decorative…
Free Printable Gallery Wall Art20 Jul 2015 | 9:52 pmBring color and inspiration to your space with this FREE printable gallery wall art. Spruce up an empty wall in your house in just three simple steps–> Download + Print + Add washi tape. That's all it takes. Easy and quick is my kind of decorating. Not to forget- this is very versatile, and you can change it up every few weeks. Or every season! Point to note here- I only curated this free printable gallery wall- please go and leave some love on the other websites if you do download their files. To achieve a true bright color for these prints, I use Canon Matte Photo Paper…
Easy Chunky Knit Blanket Pattern: 4 strands of yarn17 Jul 2015 | 1:59 pmKnitting with a larger size needle is fast and fun! For me, knitting is the perfect craft to keep my fingers busy while watching some TV. This is an easy chunky knit blanket pattern that uses a large needle and 4 strands of yarn held together to knit a quick cozy blanket for your home. Click here to download a printable version of this Easy Chunky Knit Blanket Pattern I pulled out a bunch of yarns from my collection- some textured bulky yarns and a couple of regular yarns for this blanket. You will also need a pair of scissors, a large knitting needle – size 19 or 15mm,…