Crafts

claudine hellmuth
it's holiday time!

claudine hellmuth

3 Nov 2009 | 3:43 pm

November is here and the holidays will be here before you know it!I couldn't believe it when I looked on my calendar this morning, only 5 more weeks of art making time before Christmas! All my custom orders ship the week of December 14th to make sure they get there in time. The clock is ticking! Every year, I'm like one of Santa's elves working away in my workshop to make sure everything gets finished on schedule.Here's a 16x20 custom canvas order that I just finished up, what a fun piece this was to work on. Even the dog gets to go skiing. Love that!Orders placed now will be first in line…
I'm on Craft Cast

claudine hellmuth

2 Nov 2009 | 8:09 am

My Craft Cast Interview is now live! Click HERE to listen!It's always a treat to chat with Alison at Craft Cast. In this interview we cover a variety of topics from art to pets to crafting products and all the stuff in between!Listen in and get the details on how to win exciting things! We are giving away a few goodies from my Claudine Hellmuth Studio product line, and also a copy of my latest book, The Scrapbooker’s Creativity Kit. Make sure to listen to the podcast to find out how to win!
illustration friday: skinny

claudine hellmuth

30 Oct 2009 | 2:57 pm

I have two submissions for this week's illustration friday theme of "skinny"The first thought that came to mind was the typical scale/weight theme when I thought of the theme so here's what I made first:Then as I was working on the piece above I had a new idea! I thought about our cat Mabel and I decided to do a piece with her in it. Mabel is the opposite of "skinny"! Mabel's actual photo was used for the cat :)Mabel is our huge fatty beast of a cat who I found in 2005 wandering the street outside our home in Florida. She was so skinny you could see every rib - hard to imagine now!When we…
fall fiber wreath tutorial

claudine hellmuth

29 Oct 2009 | 9:48 am

Check out this incredible Fall Fiber Wreath by artist Alisa Burke.This is a GREAT project that could easily be adjusted to make a Christmas wreath or even a Spring or Summer wreath too. I can't wait to make one of these!Alisa created this project with Claudine Hellmuth Studio paints and Sticky-back canvas, click here for the complete tutorial on her blog.Thanks Alisa for such a super tutorial and beautiful project :)
linky shout out time!

claudine hellmuth

28 Oct 2009 | 4:12 pm

Lots of exciting linky shout outs and a big THANK YOU to everyone who used the Claudine Hellmuth Studio products on their blogs! Take a look at these great projects and ideas!May Flaum whipped up an incredible tutorial for Ali Edwards Tuesday Tutorials feature. Don't miss this one!Jenn Shurkus also created a to-die-for binder tutorial for Ali Edwards Tuesday Tutorials feature check it out here!Pamela Young created a super layout and printed her photo directly onto Claudine Hellmuth Studio Sticky-Back canvasDebbie Tlach filmed an informative video about caring for your Claudine Hellmuth Studio…

HELLOmynameisHeather
Yee-haw

heatherbailey

6 Nov 2009 | 12:51 am

Arizona neighbors! You will seriously miss out if you don't make your way to downtown Mesa, AZ this weekend for Blissfest 2009, presented by my ever-fabulous friends at Domestic Bliss, Kristin & Dan Alber. Stephanie Nielson and her husband, Christian,...
Pumpkin & Dot

heatherbailey

28 Oct 2009 | 2:31 pm

Meet Betty Boo's friends, Pumpkin & Dot, two more sock doll kits to go with the free Betty Boo Sock Doll pattern download. It's a toss up which is the cutest. Both Emily & Lindsay are both partial to Dot,...
Did a Bat, Bat Thing

heatherbailey

26 Oct 2009 | 7:18 am

Welcome to Trick-Or-Eat at HELLOmynameisHeather.com. Today, nine favorite food, craft & lifestyle bloggers await behind nine haunted houses -- with an array of holiday tricks and treats to greet you. At the end of this post, you will find two...
Trick-or-Eat!

heatherbailey

23 Oct 2009 | 2:47 pm

Halloween is coming right up. Charlotte will flit around as a 'Bat Fairy' and Elijah is ready to skip the costume this year -- he's in junior high now. I'm sure he'll help eat the candy though. In celebration, on...
Sundry Snippets -- and a Sale

heatherbailey

20 Oct 2009 | 1:02 pm

The HB Store was offline for a while earlier today. It looks like our hosting service fixed the issue and now everything is back in order. We apologize for the disruption. As a thank you for your patience, enjoy 20%...

Etsy Shop for hazelnutcottage
Blue Bird of Happiness. Hand Painted Pendant, Resin.

6 Nov 2009 | 11:45 am

$64.00 *{THE MEANING}*This new series from Hazelnut Cottage brings back memories of childhood innocence, Sundays afternoons on Grandma’s porch and other simple pleasures. A charming and heart warming gift for yourself or someone you love, with more coming soon!“And when he sings to you, Though you're deep in blue, You will see a ray of light creep through, And so remember this, life is no abyss, Somewhere there's a bluebird of happiness. Life is sweet, tender and complete, when you find the bluebird of happiness.”~ Bluebird of Happiness, lyrics by Edward Heyman & Harry Parr…
Wish Necklace, Handstamped Oxidized Sterling Silver

6 Nov 2009 | 11:45 am

$76.00 *{THE DESCRIPTION}*This beautiful handstamped necklace is one-of-a-kind. No two dandelions are the same! Features the word "WISH" on a hand stamped jewelry pendant—a 25mm x 16mm oxidized sterling silver teardrop.Oxidized 16" figure eight chain, simple spring clasp.*{THE MEANING}*Oh, what do you wish? May God hear your yearnings and accept them as prayers of the heart...*{NOTE}*Each hand stamped necklace is made one-by-one, given a brushed texture and oxidized by hand, so do allow for minor differences in finish and lightness/darkness of oxidation. This necklace is not…
Love. Hand Painted Pendant, Resin.

6 Nov 2009 | 11:45 am

$64.00 *{THE MEANING}*I love you everyday, one heartbeat at a time.*{THE DESCRIPTION}*This new series from Hazelnut Cottage brings back memories of childhood innocence, Sundays afternoons on Grandma’s porch and other simple pleasures. A charming and heart warming gift for yourself or someone you love, with more coming soon! A petite (10.5mm, just over 3/8”), oxidized, sterling silver bezel pendant features a one-of-a-kind hand-painted brick red heart, surrounded by a colorful scalloped edge. Handset and filled with acrylic resin for durability.This necklace will come to you on an 18”…
I Give You My Heart Necklace, Stamped Jewelry, Oxidized Sterling Silver

6 Nov 2009 | 11:45 am

$48.00 THE CHARM IN THIS NECKLACE IS QUITE SMALL: 9mm x 10mmGARNET: 4.5mm*{THE MEANING}*“A hundred hearts would be too fewTo carry all my love for you.”~Author Unknown*{THE DESCRIPTION}*This all .925 sterling silver necklace features a tiny, delicate, beautifully detailed 9mm x 10mm monogrammed heart charm with. Additional monogrammed hearts available for $22 each. **PLEASE INDICATE YOUR CUSTOM LETTER IN THE 'MESSAGE TO SELLER' SECTION OF YOUR TRANSACTION.**Accented with a tiny, 4.5mm flat genuine semi-precious garnet stone.This hand-stamped, .925 sterling silver jewelry piece has…
My Sweet Peas Necklace, Hand-stamped Jewelry, Antiqued Sterling Silver

6 Nov 2009 | 2:12 am

$54.00 THE MEANINGAs family grows, you become close-knit; like peas in a pod. Mommy, Daddy, and babies who eventually grow up to have little "peas" of their own! This necklace conveys this sentiment with sweetness--a tiny light green semi-precious peridot brings to mind the fresh color of peas, while the sterling silver pea pod features four little peas snug and tight in their pod! THE DESCRIPTIONThis all .925 sterling silver necklace features a delicate 5/8" rounded square hand-stamped pendant, with the words "MY SWEET PEAS" hand stamped across the bottom half.

Tim Holtz
free stuff...

Tim Holtz

6 Nov 2009 | 8:53 am

that's right bloggers - free stuff for some of you who simply posted a comment on yesterday's blog post!!! you never know when i feel the need to give some stuff away so the following people will win products from...
creative overload...

Tim Holtz

5 Nov 2009 | 10:50 am

hey bloggers! well i must say that my creativity is in full overload right now working on the projects for my new book and cha samples. of course the down side to creating all of this stuff is that it...
it's about time...

Tim Holtz

3 Nov 2009 | 5:42 pm

yes bloggers, i know many of you have been asking me for quite a while to get involved with facebook and twitter. to be honest i just don't think i have that much to say that anyone would care to...
a place to bark...

Tim Holtz

2 Nov 2009 | 8:18 pm

well bloggers - for those of you that remember my friend bernie berlin and her efforts for her shelter "a place to bark" from last year, will also remember all of the great results your support did. you see bernie...
happy halloween...

Tim Holtz

31 Oct 2009 | 11:22 am

happy halloween bloggers!...t!m

CRAFT
Glamourpuss Book Giveaway Winners

6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 pm

The winners from last week's book giveaway for Glamourpuss by Julie Jackson are: Laura from Bronx, NY, Warren from Alexandria, VA, and Virginie from Kiel, Germany. Thanks to everyone who entered! Read this article | Comment on this article
Gomistyle's Urban Window Garden

6 Nov 2009 | 5:00 pm

San Francisco resident Marque Cornblatt of Gomistyle recently started documenting his indoor urban gardening efforts and he presents some really neat ideas and suggestions. Despite the fact that he does have a little yard, he got tired of sharing his harvests with the neighborhood raccoons and decided to take his garden indoors. He replaced traditional pots with big black plastic storage bins from Office Depot because of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Marque experimented with growing vines, including tomatoes, pole beans, cucumbers, and peppers, by creating hanging planters from plastic…
Reminder: Alex Rider Book Giveaway

6 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

As a special preview for MAKE's upcoming Alex Rider Dream Gadget Contest, we're giving away two copies of Eagle Strike by Anthony Horowitz, part of the Alex Rider series! Just leave a comment in this post and tell us why you or your kid(s) needs one of these books. That's all you need to do to enter! Please make sure you include your email address in the comment form field (it won't be published). All eligible comments will be closed by Noon PST on Sunday, November 8th. The winners will be announced next week on the site. Good luck! For a sneak peak at Eagle Strike, check out a sample chapter…
Jennifer Perkins' Crafty Business Advice on Blog Talk Radio

6 Nov 2009 | 3:00 pm

Here in Austin, we're lucky enough to be able to take classes in person from the uber savvy, Jennifer Perkins. If you aren't lucky enough to make it to Austin, you have a chance to hear her discuss her crafty business advice this Sunday at 6pm CST on Inspired at Home on Blog Talk Radio. I will be chatting with Tiffany Windsor, daughter of Aleene Jackson. Ya as in Aleene's Tacky Glue. We are going to be talking about all kinds of stuff from crafts to crafty business. Not to mention there will be a roundtable discussion afterwards with a whole gaggle of awesome crafters! Read this article |…
Baby Pants Snap Mod

6 Nov 2009 | 2:00 pm

Most of the baby clothes my son wears are hand-me-downs or flea market finds, but my very favorites are usually the vintage ones. They don't look like all the other baby outfits you see running (crawling?) around and they're usually better made, too. The drawback is that they don't always have snaps in the legs. I loved this pair of 80s overalls, but there's no way I am putting on or taking off overalls more than once a day. It was an easy fix, though! I ripped out the old seam, made a new one along the edges of the legs, and sewed on six snaps. Now diaper changing will be a (dare I say it?)…

not martha
links: craft

megan

6 Nov 2009 | 4:19 am

Jeny's surprisingly stretchy bind off, Fall 2009. It's here! I learned this at Sock Summit and you can learn it now too. angry chicken: screenprinting on fabric made easy (really!). With a discount for EZScreenPrint, a good excuse to try it out. all buttoned up.: The New Stitch Magazine and My Perfect Cookie.. The thermal pot luck carrier is fantastic! lovelydesign: perfect boxes + drawer dividers. With instructions. swissmiss | Inkjet tattoo paper. For DIY temporary tattoos. Must keep in mind for future Halloween projects.
On Losing Weight, Slowly

megan

5 Nov 2009 | 4:10 am

I lost 25 pounds this year, yay! It took me a while to figure out what worked for me. Here is the short version: and plus or and Slightly longer that would be: working out two to three times a week with the 30 Day Shred DVD and/or my Schwinn 430 elliptical machine while watching Gilmore Girls (or How I Met Your Mother) and eating carefully. The Exercise Bits I don't want to be outdoors, running makes my knees hurt, it rains a lot here and it's dark in the winter. I'm cranky and ugly when I break a sweat. I'm not motivated by competition or by being around people so a gym was not an option. I…
Grassroots November meeting: Q&A With A Web Designer

megan

4 Nov 2009 | 4:17 am

I'm excited about our upcoming meeting for the Seattle Grassroots Business Association, we'll have Kaytlyn Sanders of Beneficial Design joining us for a night of Q&A With A Web Designer. She'll be talking a little about how to find and work with a web designer for your business website, but mostly she'd like to take questions. I heard about Kaytlyn through Shauna James Ahern of Gluten-free Girl and The Chef and have since discovered that Kaytlyn has designed a whole lot of websites I read. The November meeting is also the first one where we'll be charging an entrance fee or taking annual…
Halloween cocktail experiments

megan

3 Nov 2009 | 3:29 am

I hope you had a wonderful Halloween. Here is the result of our experiments with Blavod black vodka and strange ice, it was a lot of fun. (See also: my previous entry about creepy ice creations.) The plastic skeleton embedded in an ice sphere was a lot of fun. In a drink it sort of rotated around on it's own and showed different bones, creepy. On the left are gummy eyeballs I froze in a swizzle stick ice tray I found at Daiso, these were creepy submerged in a drink that had gone opaque (see just below). On the right is black vodka and orange juice, which turned a nicely disgusting greenish…
links: food

megan

2 Nov 2009 | 4:53 am

Pioneer Woman Home & Garden. A custom engraved cake pan, would make a great gift for the baker who loves you. Pear Dumplings · Edible Crafts @ CraftGossip. These are adorable. What is the gin to rule them all? | Ask Metafilter. Good short descriptions of a number of gins. I'm afraid I'm a big fan of the old juniper berry. Ultimate Buttermilk Recipe Repository « Pink of Perfection. You know how you buy a whole carton of buttermilk for pancakes and then have a lot left over? This will help you with that. The Burger Lab: The Fake Shack | A Hamburger Today. StillTasty: Your Ultimate Shelf…

whip up
whipup flickr group

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 8:08 pm

Am loving the new additions to the whipup flickr group – join and add your crafty photos to the pool. bitty birdie by beeper babe patchwork lace scarf by mairuru_siesta treehouse by melissastanley727 Similar Posts: this week at the whipup flickr group | whipup roundup {september wk 4} | join us at flickr + enter our Calendar comp | join us at flickr + enter our calendar competition | whipup roundup {September wk 2} | Share and Enjoy:
whipup roundup [wk 1 november]

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 7:45 pm

Am writing this post all garlicky from making aioli (it didn’t work out but am going to try just one more time – it looks ridiculously simple but there is a trick to it I have yet to figure out). Have also been working on a quilt this week (another project that is causing me grief), but in good news I made some delicious butterfly cream cakes (check out the recipe over here) and have made 2 pavlovas this week – oh such gorgeous summery fare (we like ours topped with cream, raspberries and passionfruit). FIND OUT HOW to get your 2010 whipup crafty collectible calendar here .
2010 whipup calendar: May artist – Amy Bethune

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 2:23 am

over the next couple of weeks we are going to find out a little more about the wonderful makers featured in the 2010 whipup calendar – Our May feature artist is Amy Bethune. Amy Bethune from the B-line – Amy also runs an etsy store, she lives in Michigan. Main craft of choice: jewelry design Craft hero: Martha Stewart–I know she has an empire of folks that help, but she comes up with some amazing things. Fave web site: many! but the pioneer woman is an inspiration. Fave crafty materials supplier: rio grande I asked all our participants to answer a few questions about their…
Advertising discounts

kath_red

5 Nov 2009 | 4:27 pm

For the next 10 days I am discounting all ad slots by 10% – use this coupon code when booking your ad pre-holidaysxweEBn valid until 18 November. Leading up to the holidays ad rates have increased – up to now they have been super duper cheap cheap cheap – while I have been trialling the new system (have you tried out the new system yet – just click on the ‘advertise here’ in the sidebar to give it a test run) (if you want to use this on your website to run ads I use igloohq.com) While I have increased prices in the main ad section – I have also added…
how-to: tessuti’s favourite top

craftapalooza

4 Nov 2009 | 8:15 pm

Nikkishell shares this cute top pattern that’s a current favourite with the ladies at Tessuti. Link to pattern. Similar Posts: top 100 tutorials of 2008 | how-to: updated half yard bag. | ruffle apron | whiplash – your favourites please | Plastique Monkey | Share and Enjoy:

SallyJean
Lucky! 2 Spots open in San Diego Workshops!

sally jean

28 Oct 2009 | 11:16 am

San Diego Workshops are set for November 6-8 and November 11-13. Lucky news for those that couldn't get into them when they were first launched. A couple spots have opened in each of the Workshops (except November 12). If you would like to join me and some very creative, silly girls for a festive soldering adventure, now is your chance. To register, click on the Workshop you would like. They are available on a first come-first served basis.November 13 - Two Turtle DovesNovember 11 - Soldering for Virgins/Holiday OrnamentsNovember 8 -…
For the Love of Robin's Egg Blue-ooh-ooh....AT ROUND TOP!

sally jean

13 Oct 2009 | 10:53 am

Yes...the REAL ROUND TOP! I am just thrilled to have gone to Round Top, Texas for the most amazing antiques hunt ever! If you don't know about Round Top...it is a compilation of more than 35 different antique shows with thousands of dealers from EVERYWHERE held in the middle of no-where between Austin and Houston Texas. For nearly 2 weeks (twice a year)...dealers and shoppers and shop-owners who are shopping and dealing tolerate mid-90-degree Texas heat for the sake of vintage junk (and not junk) that is irresistible.I set off for 8-days with my girlfriends Bonnie, Cheryl…
Ho Ho Holidays!

sally jean

12 Oct 2009 | 8:58 pm

I always envy those that can create Holiday art at Easter! The earliest I have succeeded was Christmas in July...but I was in my 20's and the police were called. Seems the other residents in my condo complex didn't like Bing Crosby and Christmas Lights mid-summer. But I digress...as usual. So better late than never...I am happy to have launched Christmas 2009 ! I am especially smitten with the black & white with polka-dots...but then again...the colored pieces are so festive! Most of all...though...are the Santa's...which I think…
Additional San Diego Workshops...Yay!

sally jean

17 Sep 2009 | 10:51 am

I am so excited to say that I will be staying a little longer than planned in San Diego! I have just added an additional 3 days of Workshops to my November schedule.SOLDERING FOR VIRGINS ~ HOLIDAY ORNAMENTSSOLDERING FOR VIRGINS ~ HOLIDAY HOUSE NECKLACETWO TURTLE DOVES NECKLACETo find out more and/or Register, click here! http://sallyjean.com/2009/Pages/WorkshopsSanDiego2009B.html
For the Love of Robin's Egg Blue-ooh-ooh

sally jean

21 Aug 2009 | 9:30 pm

1. French Modern Dining Room...Exquisite 2. Box that looks like a book...for secret treasures3. Felted River Rocks...softer than stones4. Candies you won't mind counting the calories of 5. Kitchen of my dreams...even though I don't cook6. Mercury Glass Balls...you can never have too many balls7. House of Color 8. Of course Sally Jean Charms are in Robin's Egg Blue9. Buttons, Buttons, who's got the Buttons?10. Even Martha loves this color11. Man-Candy12.

OHScrap!
family of four once again

joscie

28 Oct 2009 | 9:00 pm

Sunday was a very busy day, we took a little trip down to China town to buy lei for Troy’s homecoming and a little snack too. Our favorite Lei Store was called sweethearts back in the day and then re-emerged as Po’ohala a few years ago, same family, new name. I always go there to buy lei for our friends who are visiting or those like Troy, who are coming home. The boys were able to choose their own lei to give to dad, Jalen chose a tuberose and orchid lei, Jordan chose a lantern ilima and tuberose lei, and I chose a hala lei for Troy. While we were down in China town, we…
ah, my friend Sunday, we meet again!

joscie

18 Oct 2009 | 7:26 pm

I really did intend to blog sometime this week, but wow, I really had a bunch of things going on, and thankfully none had to do with doctor visits. Well kind of… I did go in for TB clearance so I can chaperone field trips with Jordan’s class. You’ll be glad to know, I do not have TB. yay. and no, i wasn’t worried, that was a joke. ha. Monday, Christopher Columbus Day, Jalen was out of school and it was also the release day of a new book he’s been waiting on, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, the last straw. I asked him to stand next to the cut out so I could get a picture.
Sunday, Sunday (laa laa la la la)

joscie

11 Oct 2009 | 2:14 pm

This picture was taken earlier this week. This bowl is from a sally foster fundraiser last year or the year before, place mat from target. I was just struck with how well they went together. Probably why I was so drawn to the place mats in the first place, and I’ve only realized this now. Jordan enjoying one of his favorite treats of all time. Scooby Doo Macaroni and Cheese. in all it’s orangey goodness. The days have been passing me by. This past week, Jordan’s preschool was closed for fall break. So I have had him home with me while Jalen has had to continue on…
Halloween Digi Scrap

joscie

1 Oct 2009 | 1:44 pm

I created this layout of Jalen to celebrate our Halloween Costumes. I am not usually a fan of purple, but this shade from the Lora Pack was just right with the gryffindor colors. This is my first layout using the totally rad actions and cs4 on my new computer. i am so loving it! (there are things I know how to do on pse, but am still trying to figure out on CS) materials: Karla Dudley Designs Lora Patterned Papers, Digi Essentials 1 and Digi Essentials 2, Halloween 09 Brushes. Font: american typewriter, creature. Totally Rad Actions. Thanks for stopping by! Love Love & Blog you Later!
Bishop Museum

joscie

27 Sep 2009 | 9:49 pm

The past few weeks we have taken to goofing off on Friday afternoons/evenings. This has, unfortunately, lead to spending most of the day on Saturday dealing with Jalen’s homework. This week, I decided that we would come home right after school and work on homework like every other weekday. Jalen finished his assignments, and that lead to free time on Saturday. We spent the morning studying for his upcoming tests this week and after lunch and a nap (for all of us!) we headed down to spend the afternoon at Bishop Museum. It has been a while since we’ve been down to the…

Wee Wonderfuls
library books

Hillary Lang

6 Nov 2009 | 12:02 pm

Blogging every day is going to be a breeze. If I go back far enough in iPhoto I always find something I meant to blog and never did. 9 times out of 10 it's library books. So there will probably be lots of books on the floor shots this month. Today, some cross stitch inspiration...
frilly dilly

Hillary Lang

5 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am

I think I want to make a headband or some sort of hair accessory or necklace like this one from JCrew for Phoebe. I think I really like it and then I can't decide. I don't like overly frothy little girls stuff but I do love it in small doses. I think something like this would be so cute paired with jeans and a t-shirt. It's sort of a moot point because she'll never leave it on her head for more than 2 minutes put together. Maybe. It's a good excuse to window shop millinery flowers over on etsy. My favorites so far are at this shop, Mary Not Martha. Then I decided it was a sign.
look who is sitting next to each other

Hillary Lang

4 Nov 2009 | 7:51 am

just plunked my new (old) orla kiely bag down on the table by my o.k. target mug. makes me so happy! I bought the bag on ebay about a month ago and oh how I love it. I justified it by saying I'll never need another bag again and I might be right. I don't think my love for it will ever waver. also on the table, dmc floss colors for the cross stitch patterns. I'll tell you what's a good time. spending half an hour in the floss aisle at joanns while your 2 year old tears things apart and your 5 year old hollers at her for tearing things apart while you hunt and peck for…
nov.

Hillary Lang

3 Nov 2009 | 11:15 am

November! Isn't November one of those 'do something every day' months, blog every day? or write a novel every day? Something like that? I'm going to try to blog every day. Maybe. Yes, I'm going to do it. Starting today. The end of October went by in a blur and I'm realizing I have no good photos documenting it. I have a new nephew!! Another boy for me, baby Jake! He's a cutie. But I'm not sure I'm supposed to be showing baby pics here. In arrived right in the middle of all the holiday excitement. Halloween was a doozy this year. Our kindergarten…
new fall header

Hillary Lang

29 Oct 2009 | 11:13 am

new fall header, originally uploaded by Hillary Lang.look quick! there's a new seasonally appropriate header up. of course the halloween themed things will be outdated in just a few days. wonder if I'll keep them up there as long as I did those dang valentines.

iHanna's Creative Space
I caught The Teesha Bug - atchoo!

iHanna

6 Nov 2009 | 6:09 am

After watching (and posting about Teesha Moore’s Art Journal Collage Videos) I was inspired to create a spread in my own Art Journal. I had already painted the page black so that was the background I went with - it feels fitting to this season as darkness is ascending in Sweden. The body part figure-girls that I’ve struggled with in previous collages came together quite easy this time. My favorite is the right one with her striped socks and the skirt with flames, cut out from a image in a coffee add! She got a bird hat and the redhead got a daisy hat. Did you catch the Teesha Bug…
Collage Class with Teesha Moore

iHanna

2 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

Teesha Moore is a well known Art Journal Guru in the internet world. Her collages are colorful, bright and personal. She recently made a whole series of videos showing her journaling style, and watching them is like taking a free online class! I’ve spent my day with them today; I’ve posted this “playlist” above, with all her vidoes after each other. I added all her videos inside one so you can view them “in the best order” (according to me). At youtube I always get confused as they don’t show up in the correct order there. Sit down with a cup of…
The Summer Embroidery Project – start up

iHanna

23 Oct 2009 | 4:29 am

This summer I have been doing some freeform embroidery! The material for my first project came in a little package from another (unidentified) member of the Embroidery Group I’ve joined. Everyone brought little packages to the exchange Summer Embroidery Project in May, which gave us the whole summer to create “something”. The theme we are all working with is any song by the famous Swedish song writer Ollrog. That would be the theme that unites our different embroideries in an upcoming exhibit. But you are free to chose any line from any song and interpret it however you like. How you…
Creativity is a Habit that needs your Yes!

iHanna

19 Oct 2009 | 6:58 am

When not doing something for a while you get out of the habit quickly. You might loose some of your courage to just jump in and Do It. Your muscles forget how to act and your brain puts up bars instead of free sky to dive into. When you stop for a break, even a short one, your mind concentrate on other tasks and forget how to focus on whats important. - Oh, how quickly the mundane and ordinary can invade your thoughts and become your life if you’re not mindful. So what is important? To me it is to constantly create a beautiful world to live in, no matter how you do it. It’s a…
This is the Self Updating Post

iHanna

26 May 2009 | 11:58 am

I went on a blog hiatus on 26th of May 2009. I don’t know when I will start writing blog posts again, I will keep you posted though! Follow my silly tweeting and add your mail addy to my newsletter and I’ll give you peeks into my creative life as it moves forward even though this blog is on summer holiday! Neat huh? Those are my 3 latest twitter updates. Also, when I find something interesting to read I mark it to delicious. This is the latest 3 of those: Go read the whole thing and also, check out more articles here! Enjoy. This is a self updating post, why didn’t I ever…

Vintage Indie
Vintage Fashion Forward: Fall Lookbook with Guest Dalena Vintage

Vintage Indie

5 Nov 2009 | 8:26 am

Oh Fall you're finally here! Time to slip on a pair of cozy stockings, bundle up and enjoy the chill in the air. Along with warm cider, fuzzy blankets and pumpkin everything, one of the things I love most about the cooler weather is layering. Yes ladies, heaps and heaps of layering! Here are a few of my favorite things to layer: Plaid on plaid. Mixing plaids is one of my favorite things to do...
VI Headliner: Sponsor Feature, Welcome Ruby!

Vintage Indie

4 Nov 2009 | 11:12 am

Vintage Indie would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest sponsor Ruby. Ruby is an on-line magazine for women. I wanted to delve a little further into the spirit of which Ruby is founded and did so by interviewing Karen Gass, Editor in Chief. Cover Page - Ruby November 2009 Who started Ruby? I did. I was not able to find any women's magazines that covered the things I was interested in, and...
Giving Thanks Paper & Cake Printable Freebie!

Vintage Indie

4 Nov 2009 | 6:47 am

The sweet owners and designers over at Paper & Cake sent over this printable Thanksgiving Collection. It is rather classy, and well designed. I think you'll love it. To obtain the printable, click the link below for the download. * Invitation + Envelope * Menu * Place Cards * Wine Glass Tags * Napkin Rings / Candle Wrap / Candle Wrap * Party Food Label * Recipe Card * Favor Box Download yours by clicking...
Winner: Zibbet.com Giveaway/Contest!

Vintage Indie

4 Nov 2009 | 6:11 am

One lucky Vintage Indie reader won a free Premium Account (valued at $7/month) for LIFE on Zibbet.com! Congratulations to Deb B. Deb B. please look for an email very soon from me. Have a great day! Want to win again with Vintage Indie? Head over to Vintage Indie Kids for another fun giveaway, this time from Amazing Grass!
Vintaeg Indie Kids: Amazing Grass™ Experiment - Product Review & Giveaway!

Vintage Indie

2 Nov 2009 | 11:19 am

Head over to Vintage Indie Kids today for an Amazing Grass™ Experiment - Product Review & Giveaway! I think you'll enjoy this one! Gabreial

A Little Hut - Patricia Zapata
wip - calendar

patricia zapata

6 Nov 2009 | 8:47 am

Remember this embroidery on paper? I really like those random circles and I've been wanting to use them somewhere else. I knew I wanted something for us to enjoy and it hit me last night—a hand written calendar to put in our studio. It's a WIP because I'm going to embroider some of the circles with white thread. Yep. White-on-white again.Some overdue thank yous...- To the generous bloggers who've mentioned my 2010 calendar. There are always great designs out there and this year is no exception. Thank you to Holly, Kristen, Kelly and Print and Pattern. Thank you. Thank you! If I'm missing…
a question | una pregunta

patricia zapata

5 Nov 2009 | 12:28 pm

I have a small question for those of you that speak Spanish...Hace mucho tiempo he pensado que debería escribir no solo en Inglés sino en Español también. Lo que no he resuelto es si debería comenzar otro blog (un duplicado de este) o simplemente escribir en ambos idiomas aquí mismo. ¿Que opinan?El plan es comenzar el año nuevo con los dos idiomas. Por adelantado les pido mil disculpas por los "horrores" de ortografía, falta de tildes, etc. Se que en algún momento u otro me hará falta algo. Para los que no sepán y tengan curiosidad, he vivido la gran parte de mi vida en Estados…
gift giving with paper

patricia zapata

5 Nov 2009 | 6:57 am

I've been asked several times if I use my projects as gifts and the sad reality is that the majority of the times I don't. I'm trying to change that. At a minimum I want to make changes in the gift wrapping department and I started this morning.Instead of starting from scratch, I decided to reach for my own book, to work on a project for a gift that we'll need for one of little C's friends. I remember that the minute I sketched this project out, I knew it was going to work and that it would definitely make a cut for the book. I love it when I have an idea that goes from sketch to paper…
thank you stationery box set - printable

patricia zapata

3 Nov 2009 | 9:48 am

With the holidays just around the corner, I thought it would be nice to make a set that can be used as a hostess gift. I'm the type to be running around at the very last minute so I know this will come in handy. I find this set fun to make and would've loved to send them out all made up and nicely packaged but there is no way I can swing that right now. So that's why I decided to go with a printable version for now.I kept the design very simple, but it can be altered with paper and maybe a few strokes of a crayon if you have little ones that would like to help. All the printable materials are…
crafty tree trimmings: six festive ornaments to make

patricia zapata

2 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

I'm back! We've had some seriously busy weeks around here—sorry for the absence. I simply had to let some things go and blogging was one of them. I hope to get into my routine again even though things are still not back to normal at all. But enough about that...After such a long absence, I knew I couldn't show up empty handed and I think I picked the right project to accompany my comeback. It's my first ebook collaboration with Diane Gilleland and I love it. It's always so hard to be quiet about projects such as these, so it's really exciting to finally be unveiling this today.Our very…

Make and Takes
Weekend Make and Takes: Leaves

Marie

6 Nov 2009 | 4:46 pm

When it’s time to get out the rake, it’s time to start crafting with fallen leaves. Here’s a few projects that will keep you busy this weekend as you work in the yard! Crunchy Leaf Pictures by Make and Takes (pictured above) Autumn Leafy Wreath by Sweet Life in the Valley Leafy Turkeys by Impress Your Kids Leaf Printings by Martha Stewart ABC’s with Leaves by Maya Made Why Do Leaves Change Color? by Playful Learning Share and Bookmark: Related Posts:Mod Podge Your Pressed LeavesThankful Leaf Place SettingsWeekend Make and Takes: Nature
Gobbling Turkey Apples

Marie

6 Nov 2009 | 2:06 am

This is a fun classic craft, perfect for Thanksgiving Day. These Turkey Apples can be “gobbled” up as a snack while they wait for the turkey to be done or saved as part of Thanksgiving dinner. Supplies for Turkey Apples: whole apples, any color, washed and dried toothpicks stick pretzels marshmallows raisins, craisins popcorn Set out your supplies. Use your toothpicks to attach some of them together in a line. Then press them into the back part of the apple.We also tried to make some turkey faces. I used chocolate kisses for one and a craisin on a toothpick for another, making the…
Recycled Thanksgiving Napkin Rings

Marie

5 Nov 2009 | 7:43 am

I’m contributing over at Alpha Mom’s – Once Upon a Holiday again today. Come see how I’m dressing up the Thanksgiving table with these recycled napkin rings. Share and Bookmark: Related Posts:Thanksgiving Crafts from the PastA Day of ThanksgivingThankful Leaf Place Settings
Easy Homemade Microwave Popcorn

Marie

4 Nov 2009 | 1:32 am

Yes, homemade microwave popcorn, and it really works! I was skeptical. I didn’t believe it could be that easy, but IT IS! Lisa, from Snack Snoop, has shared her how-to for Homemade Microwave Popcorn. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3: Put 1/4 cup popcorn in a brown paper bag. Fold top over a few times and tape it. Place in microwave folded side upfor 2 to 3 minutes or until there is 5 seconds between pops. Eat plain or add flavors (such as salt, butter, sugar, etc.) With this system of microwave popping, you can: control the amount of salt and butter reuse the paper bag again and again save…
Thankful Leaf Place Settings

Marie

3 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

I’ve loved this post from Quince and Quire on Leaf Drawing. Even though I don’t have her artistic touch, I decided I had to make some myself anyway, taking a Thanksgiving spin on it. I wrote the names of people who will be at our dinner table, making each leaf a place setting. You’ll first want to collect, press, and sort your leaves. Then find a fancy pen (I love the silver ink), or you could even paint on your leaves like Geninnie’s Art, where Quince and Quire was inspired. Have fun being creative this Fall! Share and Bookmark: Related Posts:Pressing, Drying, &…

angry chicken
Kolache!

amy k.

6 Nov 2009 | 12:16 pm

This is a kolache from Happy Sparrow here in Portland and I am now obsessed. I can't recommend this cafe highly enough. They have tasty kolache, great coffee, and are super nice. Baby ate a vegan special and a nutella filled kolache, and I had the same—and then took home one of each kind for weekend munching. So good!!Thanks to all of you who braved the horrible rain and came out to Bolt last night! That was super fun. Okay, Miss Delia turns 5 tomorrow, so I need to snap to it. She busy working on her "party flavors" which are really party favors, but I'm not about to…
donut holes.

amy k.

5 Nov 2009 | 5:19 am

Details are here and hope you can come by!(I have a new fall banner and new links up, too.)
make your own sewing patterns!

amy k.

3 Nov 2009 | 1:30 pm

I received a copy of this new sewing book, Design-It-Yourself Clothes: Pattern making Simplified, by Cal Patch (cool name!) and am really impressed. I often recommend Wendy's sewing books for basic garment sewing know-how, but haven't been able to recommend a sewing book that fully covers pattern making. This is that book. Cal explains thoroughly how to draft, alter, and sew garments that will really fit you. She also how teaches how to grade patterns which is what you need to know if you want to make items in multiple sizes. There are quite a few designs in the book, complete with…
book siging coming up this thursday!!

amy k.

2 Nov 2009 | 5:30 am

This Thursday I will be at Bolt for a book signing! I will show examples from my book—with tips, hints and humorous stories, and then we can all chat, hang out, and one of you will win this tote full of Bend The Rules Love! It contains supplies, a copy of my book, fabric from Bolt, the Bend The Rules Gift Labels—how cool! Please come on out, I'd love to see you!Thursday, November 5th at Bolt (Bolt has a cool blog, too, just so you know.) 2136 NE Alberta St · Portland, OR 97211 · 503.287.bolt7PMWoot!**I will be in Seattle on December 3rd at The Quilting Loft for a book signing, too.
some kind of crazy evil

amy k.

31 Oct 2009 | 5:30 am

I found myself over at Polyvore the other day after seeing a lovely photo from Uniform Studio and oh my good lord. Hours, HOURS, can be wasted on this site. It's a drag-and-drop collage fashion-y thing. How's that for a great description? Of course you can click and buy, but I'm not even going to discuss this option. So, sorry, but your day is ruined now. My bad. I spent about 10 minutes on this outfit. The sweater makes it for me. That and the umbrella.Here's a link for each item shown. Action Hero just pointed me to shmotter which is a similar site.An unrelated but amazing…

thimble
November is here

thimble

3 Nov 2009 | 4:20 am

November once again, nearly the end of fall when you can start to feel the winter coming. Blech. Good thing there’s a new soundtrack posted in my right column to keep us distracted. These are all free and legal mp3s to download and listen to - from one of my favorite Flight of the Conchords songs to some classics like Nirvana’s about a girl (brings me right back to 1993) and Carly Simon’s you’re so vain (guaranteed to be stuck in your head all day). Plus some great newer bands like Fleet Foxes. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Chili

thimble

27 Oct 2009 | 8:37 pm

After many years of discussing the merits of owning a slow cooker, we finally decided it was time to invest in one. Our first slow cooker adventure was a pot of chili, which turned out beautifully. We are scheming for all kinds of slow cooked meals this winter - stews, soups, curries…. I am looking forward to walking in the door after work and having dinner all ready to eat!
October Books

thimble

20 Oct 2009 | 6:28 pm

Some great books coming out this month! Fall is the best for new books and perfect for starting new projects as we all start spending more time indoors….. One-Yard Wonders Appliqué Your Way Free & Easy Stitch Style Carefree Clothes for Girls Felting for Baby Design-It-Yourself Clothes Perfectly Fitted Twinkle Sews Carry Me: 20 Boutique Bags to Sew The Knitter’s Book of Wool Reversible Knitting Itty-Bitty Toys Kata Golda’s Hand-Stitched Felt Haiku Knits Kaffe Fassett’s Quilt Romance Rowan’s Greatest Knits
fall colours

thimble

18 Oct 2009 | 7:48 pm

I pulled out our Digital Rebel this weekend, which I haven’t used in months. It felt nice. We biked through the park on our way home from running some errands and I stopped to take a few pictures of the leaves changing colours. It’s a bit cliche maybe, but also really pretty and one of the nicest things about living in southern Ontario, I think. In addition to the brilliant blue skies this time of year, it’s pretty picturesque.
Tutorial Links

thimble

15 Oct 2009 | 5:26 pm

1. Goodnight Monkey Boy Quilt Tutorial by Piece N Quilt 2. Scrap Pieced Baby Bib by Make It and Love It 3. Cabled Balaclava at Craftzine 4. Three Baby Blankets at Sew4Home 5. Penant Rubber Stamp Roller from Cathe Holder (via) 6. Mushroom Shelf at Finder Maker

jane's apron
shiny brite season

julie thompson

4 Nov 2009 | 10:08 am

I think it's a lot like bird watching and I spotted my first a couple of weeks ago. It's Shiny Brite season at the thrift stores. Boxes of vintage ornaments are irresistible to me. Like a piece of candy, I can always have just one more. Have you seen any yet?
tiny frogs

julie thompson

2 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

I love November. I love November except for two things; leaf blowers and holiday ads. They each bring me to the brink of insanity. How are you supposed to keep things in perspective and not be marketed to...especially with kids? It's hard. One of the best things that works for me is to plan. Take a few days to look through magazines and books. Gather a few ideas I'd like to try and put them in a folder. Then, before December, I put all of the "idea" sources away so I'm not tempted to try "just one more thing". One of my favorite bloggers…
revisit

julie thompson

29 Oct 2009 | 7:41 am

My son is on his school's soccer team and I've traveled to just about every high school in St. Louis over the last few months. This, combined with a major highway closed for construction, has sent me down roads that I don't usually travel. I've worn a path down one road in particular...but it's kind of fun because I spotted the house featured in one of my favorite Mary Engelbreit books. The house is unmistakable...it somehow manages to be the prettiest house on a street full of pretty houses. The many eyes-off-the-road passes inspired me to look at the book…
inventory

julie thompson

26 Oct 2009 | 10:45 am

Every once in a while I feel like I have to do a blog inventory. It usually goes along with getting my house and craft stuff in order. Just like a facebook update, I've made a rambling list:Julie Thompson... submitted a couple of aprons to Somerset Studio's Apron-ology and they were both picked for publication. She is now bitten by the art apron bug and thinks she has time to make more. cleaned out multiple craft storage areas and thinks she should stop buying vintage linens and trim...and zippers and pillowcases...and sewing patterns. is getting her act together for…
blessed mother of jadite

julie thompson

22 Oct 2009 | 7:08 am

At about this time last year I bought a sewing machine and, unfortunately, a washing machine...on the same day. It was clearly a case of bad appliance kharma. Fair or not, these type of purchases are considered "mine". As in, "but you just bought a brand new washing machine". If bigger purchases come in groups of three, I was primed for a third buying opportunity. It came the next day at our church garage sale; and I had to show remarkable restraint. I don't have a lot of useful talents but one of them is immediately spotting the good stuff at a sale. I…

Simply Stated
Treat Yourself

KateParker

6 Nov 2009 | 3:19 pm

Once in a while a girl has got to pamper herself. What better time than late in the year, as the impending holiday craziness looms near! On my recent trip to Napa, I paid a visit to the Spa Villagio at the Vintage Estate in Yountville, and I can say that it was - hands down - the best spa experience I’ve ever had. Now, most women I know have at least one thing that is their thing - they thing they splurge on once in a while because it does wonderful things for the soul to be pampered every now and then. For some, it’s a fancy new haircut or highlights. For others, it’s regular…
Quick & Easy Thanksgiving Centerpiece

JenniferSbranti

4 Nov 2009 | 10:16 am

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful holiday, but if you're the party host, let's face it... between all the cleaning, cooking, decorating, and hostessing, it can also be a stressful time! Chances are good that you'll be spending a lot of time in the kitchen already, so let's try to keep things simple when it comes to the decor. Below is a quick and easy centerpiece idea that won't take you more than a few minutes to whip together. It will require the use of a 3-tier serving dish, but this is the type of piece that you'll be able to use over and over again for both food and decorative purposes,…
A European Vacation (without the European Price Tag)

KateParker

3 Nov 2009 | 5:09 pm

Last week, I went on the best vacation I’ve had in years. I spent four days and five nights ignoring emails, voicemail, and all work-related thoughts. I stayed in a beautiful French Country-style Inn, slept in a plush king-sized bed in a room with a fireplace and terrace, enjoyed luxurious spa treatments and Swiss-style showers, ate ridiculously good Italian and French food, and drove through the countryside visiting gorgeous vineyards and drinking the delicious product of local winemakers. No, I didn’t just win the lottery. I also didn’t take a long and pricey…
Halloween Parties: 8 Tips for Last-Minute Hosts

JenniferSbranti

29 Oct 2009 | 5:17 pm

{pictured above: Midnight Madness Halloween Party} Halloween is on a Saturday this year, and you know what that means… even more of an excuse to party! If the date crept up on you (pun intended) and you’re not exactly ready for the costume-clad guests to arrive yet, not to worry. You’d be surprised how quickly you can whip up a cool Halloween bash, even if all you have to work with is Friday night and Saturday during the day... seriously! Below are some planning tips to help guide you through it. Pick and choose which ones work best for you, even if it's just 1 or 2 {pictured above:…
Last-Minute Halloween Planning

KateParker

29 Oct 2009 | 5:13 pm

If you're like me, Halloween is one of those holidays that just tends to sneak up on you. Thanksgiving? Weeks of advance planning, grocery shopping, and meal-prep. Christmas? I'm already starting my gifts-to-give list. But Halloween is just one of those occasions that seems to creep up and make me exclaim - "It's already the end of October?!" Real Simple to the rescue! Read on for last-minute DIY costume ideas, ways to celebrate without spending a dime, ideas for how to host a Pumpkin-Carving Party, and some must-see classic Halloween movies for a night in with the fam. As for me? Though I…

Misty Mawn
{ fall } ing into place

misty

6 Nov 2009 | 9:58 am

only the first week of november and i am already noticing signs of winter here & there. brrrr. i am also noticing my many moods & just how easy it is to make up a story in my head & believe it completely. it's amusing to me how surprised i am when it turns out not to be true. made up stories that make me question too much, stories that sit on my shoulder and poke in my ear, pull my hair, and grind their teeth. i don't know why i let them get there in the first place. i am trying more and…
happy november

misty

3 Nov 2009 | 9:47 pm

so far november has started off as beautiful as ever with temperatures in the 70's here. where the earth's floor has been gently covered with a blanket of orange & yellow leaves. each and every time i look or go outside i am reminded again why this season is so spectacular. but i don't like that it is so dark come five o'clock, that is going to take awhile to get used to. another page in my sketchbook...if you have signed up for my online workshop & have not received an email from me, please, please email me & let me know.
31 Oct 2009 | 7:13 pm

misty

31 Oct 2009 | 7:13 pm

hope you all had a great halloween! thanks for the well wishes for my girl...they worked, she was back on her feet for a little while today, long enough to dress up, yay! :)
picking flowers

misty

29 Oct 2009 | 6:22 pm

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~Albert Camusand that alone is reason enough to me to fall so madly in love with this season.thank you to all of you that have signed up & taken interest in my online workshop. i cannot even express how excited & grateful i am. this is going to be so much fun, i just know it! i can't wait to start! Happy Halloween!!! hopefully i shall be back soon with photos of carved pumpkins & two smiling - candy overloaded children. my girl has the flu ( & so…
late journal pages, big birthdays, & finally....

misty

27 Oct 2009 | 8:17 pm

i had no idea there was a theme assigned to each sketchbook/journal when i signed up for the project ( i am sure if i would have read the instructions i might have seen that, alas...) so after a few others mentioned their themes i looked to find my theme... can you guess it before i tell you? i started working on a few pages with the theme in mind, but i already can tell i won't be very good at sticking to it the whole way through. elephant in the room is my theme. i am really loving this project, i took my journal with me last…

Craftastrophe
Ever have those annoying seat partners that never shut up? Like, NEVER?!

sam {temptingmama}

6 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

I’d use it to keep my head propped upright; or stick it on the talker next to me and blow it up to the point where they could no longer breathe talk. Either way: $170.00 Blow up neck warmer / brace FTW! Thanks Cari for showing us this store! {source} Subscribe to the comments for this post?Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponTweet This!Share this on RedditShare this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinAdd this to Google BookmarksShare this on FriendFeedShare this on del.icio.usBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Share this on…
Blog-o-versary: A look back, Craftastrophe style

sam {temptingmama}

6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am

Can you believe it’s been a year since we started sharing the wealth of awesomeness that is bad crafts? An entire year! Who knew that when we began this site on that early November morning with a vagina wallet we’d be sharing the best of the worst. But seriously?! They’re not always the worst. In fact, I’ve developed a penchant for a wide variety of Teh Kitsch, some of which we’ve featured here and over the past year I have had to fight the urge to buy these items quite a few times. Not because I don’t need them or want them but because I fear that the shop…
Countdown to Thanksgiving: Turkey Earrings

Karen Sugarpants

6 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

Gives new meaning to gobbling on your girlfriend’s earlobes. Pleh. Still, nothing says I love you like dead tree rat. Nothing. Thanks Suebob! {source} Subscribe to the comments for this post?Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponTweet This!Share this on RedditShare this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinAdd this to Google BookmarksShare this on FriendFeedShare this on del.icio.usBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Share this on TechnoratiShare this on MixxShare this on TipdPost this to MySpaceSubmit this to NetvibesSeed this on…
Look What You Can Do With Your Recycle Bin!

Karen Sugarpants

5 Nov 2009 | 5:09 pm

Are you f*cking kidding me? What is this crap? I’m all for recycling, but once it’s in the bin, that sh*it is for the mice to chew on. Besides, don’t notebooks already come with cardboard covers? From the listing: Perfect for recording life’s events and/or as a sketch book. Life’s events? If my life included making notebooks from Eggo boxes (not that I eat Eggo’s, that kife will kill you), I would not spend the time writing it down! Wait. You drink Coors Light? That’s explains eeeeverything. Because you must be drunk on douchebeer to think you…
Countdown To Thanksgiving: Pumpkin Pants

Karen Sugarpants

5 Nov 2009 | 2:00 pm

That poor poor child. Thanks Suebob! {source} Subscribe to the comments for this post?Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponTweet This!Share this on RedditShare this on FacebookShare this on LinkedinAdd this to Google BookmarksShare this on FriendFeedShare this on del.icio.usBuzz up!Submit this to Script & StyleShare this on BlinklistDigg this!Share this on TechnoratiShare this on MixxShare this on TipdPost this to MySpaceSubmit this to NetvibesSeed this on NewsvineNot the same, but still fun:TIMES UP! TIMES UP! TIMES UP! CONTEST: Win a Brother P-Touch Label Maker!TIMES UP!

Sonji Says...
As the sidebar logo announces...

Sonji Hunt

2 Nov 2009 | 12:14 pm

I have been chosen as a finalist for a 2010 Niche Award in the Fiber Art/Art Quilt category. Hurrah! This is the nominated piece. I have to say that if personified, Medallion Structure I would be jumping for joy. She is well traveled and has been the recipient of quite a bit of press over the past year. And now this. If her parts weren't sewn on so securely, she might suffer from the same fits of fancy and downward spiral as some of those other overly photographed media divas (who shall remain nameless).The winners in all categories will be announced in mid-February, 2010 and of course I will…
28 Sep 2009 | 6:30 pm

Sonji Hunt

28 Sep 2009 | 6:30 pm

Fall has arrived! You know I love my chilly weather and it is here today. Rain, wind...brrrrr. What if all snowflakes were this colorful? I wonder if I'd love snow as much. Little bit of embroidery today. Oh, it takes a long time to do such a little bit, but I'd like to get back to adding some. I used to be excessive about it, then went spartan. Perhaps, I've learned some moderation. On this part I will do the blackish area and then some coiled marks on the yellow. I haven't decided if I want to add a bundle or to make a dimensional icon for the center. I'm leaning toward the icon and I'd…
In Case You Missed It...

Sonji Hunt

4 Sep 2009 | 11:09 am

My "One From Wisconsin" exhibit is over now. Thank you to everyone who went to see it. Many of my friends really went out of their way to show me that support and I greatly appreciate it. When I was participating in "The Moment" event at the museum, a lovely woman told me that she came back to see my work three times and brought new people to see it each time. My eyes got all watery-happy when she was telling me this. It's nice to hear that people like the work. So, for those of you who were unable to attend...I stood in the middle of the room and pivoted so you could view each wall.
George Ray McCormick, Sr.

Sonji Hunt

8 Aug 2009 | 2:42 pm

Services were held this week for a wonderful artist and person, George Ray McCormick, Sr. The links at the end of this post contain great pictures of George with his work at the Museum of Wisconsin Art, where he just had his exhibition in the "One from Wisconsin" gallery. I'm glad that so many of us attended and celebrated his talent. I'm glad that I got to give him a hug and kiss and talk with him at his opening. It's shocking that he is gone. I will remember his smile, how much he loved and respected Evelyn (his significant other) and I will treasure the self-portrait he gave me and the…
My Studio Assistant

Sonji Hunt

26 Jun 2009 | 2:53 pm

I'm not someone who likes to involve others in my work, but Julie seems to know exactly when she is needed. When I left the room to get some books to weigh down those bulbous branches of the orange leaf, Miss Julie had already taken care of it.This is the work, after my assistant deemed it ready to sew, of course. It is aptly named "RAMSHACKLE (Revised)" because it is "Ramshackle", revised. It measures about 58"W x 75" H, so it got narrower than the original and longer. I amputated the left side following the "Quilts: Another Dimension" exhibit and have been repositioning the bits and pieces…

pamgarrison
new fall flickr favorites

pamgarrison.typepad.com

5 Nov 2009 | 11:57 am

{If you are interested in the book give-away, be sure to leave a comment in the post below titled "more journaling fun" before midnight Friday...and, don't worry, if you mentioned your comment number and it's different. Because there is a delay in comments published, your comment number may not be what you thought it'd be when commenting.} 1. {Echo} Week 1 - Emerge (2), 2. antique petit point purse, 3. night flys, 4. Untitled, 5. Heaven can wait 2, 6. Untitled, 7. leaves for fall, 8. a nice beret is what we all need, 9. Monster Zora, 10. #449, 11.
the prepping for silver bella continues

pamgarrison.typepad.com

4 Nov 2009 | 4:15 pm

{If you are interested in the book give-away, be sure to leave a comment in the post below titled "more journaling fun" before midnight Friday} I'm in the thick of finishing up the Silver Bella kits...the fun begins next week!!!!
more journaling fun

pamgarrison.typepad.com

2 Nov 2009 | 4:18 am

As I mentioned in the last post, I have a give-away for you journalers or journal admirers. Dawn Sokol, author of 1,000 Journal Pages, has kindly offered one of her books (a signed copy) as a prize. Congrats to Dawn for having her books among the offerings at Anthropologie. That must feel like a nice stamp of approval, we all love that store so! Dawn's got other ways for you to journal with her over at her blog, both NaNoJouMo and her upcoming online class, {12.31}, so pop on over to see about those. If you want to be entered in the 1,000 Journal Pages give-away book, just leave a comment…
...

pamgarrison.typepad.com

31 Oct 2009 | 10:51 am
oh my! a journaling post?!?

pamgarrison.typepad.com

30 Oct 2009 | 11:30 am

Yep, still doodling, and journaling and cutting and pasting, just not as much since I've been up to other shenanigans. Here are some pages from my current journal. I'm pretty much only grabbing these two these days. My hard cover journals have been left neglected, while these soft-cover, easy to grab and go journals are my current choice. This top one is really just scraps of paper sewn together. The cover is a lovely postcard received long ago from Wendy Addison and her Theater of Dreams shop sale. I've savored it for years. See how haphazard the…

Ma petite theiere
THANK YOUUU!!

Anne-Julie

6 Nov 2009 | 1:56 pm

ENG/ Yes, Thank you VERY MUCH for the amazing response to my shop update, it was amazing this time again! Half of the necklaces sold in just 4 minutes, and then everything quickly flew away.. It’s a great great support and I can’t thank you enough! Now to speak about your orders, I will send revised invoices through Paypal to those who bought multiple items in separates order and I will refund any extra shipping charges too. I will come back to you through the weekend, either by Etsy convo or by email, with your orders details. FR/ Un grand grand MERCI pour cette vente qui a…
Next shop update Friday Nov. 6th : few more pics!

Anne-Julie

5 Nov 2009 | 10:54 am

ENG/ I just added few more pics of necklaces that will be available at tomorrow’s shop update (more infos here). Please visit my Flickr gallery to see them all! Thank you again for the wonderful words and compliments in my previous post, it warms my heart! See you tomorrow, hugs FR/ J’ai ajouté de nouvelles photos de colliers qui seront disponibles demain soir lors du shop update (plus d’infos ici). Il suffit de visiter ma galerie Flickr pour les voir tous. Et merci beaucoup pour tous les compliments dans mon dernier billet, je suis très touchée! Rendez-vous demain,…
Next shop update : Friday Nov. 6th

Anne-Julie

1 Nov 2009 | 6:53 pm

>>> Helpful time zone converter ! <<< See the Flickr album HERE. ENG/ The new jewelry shop update is finally scheduled! Rendez-vous this Friday, Nov. 6th at 9pm / Paris time. I know most of you have been waiting for a long time, and I sincerely hope you will be pleased by the new pieces that will be available. As always, the shop update will happen in my Etsy shop, where all the necklaces will appear online @ 9pm / Paris time. For the time zone converter, you can use the link above, or you can refer to the clock in my left column, it’s the local time in France. …
Interview

Anne-Julie

30 Oct 2009 | 5:23 pm

ENG/ I’ve been interviewed by the very kind Jessica of http://waysideviolet.com ! (she also has a cozy shop at Etsy). If you want to read more about me, my creative process or a normal day in my life just click on the picture above, or follow this link. And as an aside note, I just would like everybody to keep in mind how much it’s important to respect each other in this world. Some people tend to forget that and to act really badly. I recently had to deal with a stalker at Etsy, and as much as this turns me sad and angry, I cannot help but think to all of you here and your great…
New jewelry is coming: stay tuned!

Anne-Julie

29 Oct 2009 | 1:37 pm

FR/ De nouveaux colliers sont en train de se faire photographier ce soir. Un shop update sera programmé dans peu de jours (semaine prochaine), donc suivez le blog pour plus de photos et d’infos à ce sujet. A tout bientôt! ENG/ New necklaces are currently being photographed by yours truly. Stay tuned for a very soon scheduled shop update (next week), and keep on following the blog for more infos and pics. Talk soon!

A Stitch in Time...
Painfree Crafting

Debra

21 Oct 2009 | 6:46 am

In the next few months many of us will decide we have to "buckle down" and create all the presents and decorations that are on our imaginary -or sometimes not-so-imaginary- To Do List. We have deadlines- Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year's Day. And we cannot disappoint others by failing to create all the wonderful things that are swirling around our heads.We settle down for several hours of work after a day of work. Soon, our hands are aching, our necks are creaking, and our lower backs are aching. But still we soldier on. In the name of all the magical goodness that is…
Fashion Crafting: shows, swaps and Making it Work.

Debra

19 Oct 2009 | 8:52 am

(crossposted at BlogHer)I'm home from spending 24 hours at Pacific International Quilt Festival. This west-coast weekend is a blend of hundreds of vendors, hundreds of quilts and a fascinating mix of wearable fashions. I was there to work the Fashion Show -a Friday night tradition which is organized by wearable quilter Karen Boutte. This year's fashion show featured designs from Margaret Linderman, Rachel Clark, and the pattern company: Decades of Style. I was one of the dozen models at the show. Lucky me! I got to wear beautiful items created by each of these three talents. Consider it my…
Charitable Crafting

Debra

8 Oct 2009 | 3:16 am

(crossposted at BlogHer)As the seasons begin to shift toward autumn, I starting more about giving -and especially charitable giving. Money for food banks for holiday meals, home-made biscuits for the animal shelters, and crafts for whichever charities can use them. Sewing, quilting, crochet, and knitting are the key crafts where charitable appeals are aimed.With limited time, what are some of the charities that looking for charitable crafting?Softies for Mirabel is an Australian crafting appeal to collect as many softies as they can before December 10th to donate to the Mirabel Foundation- an…
Craft Room Design and Repurposing

Debra

28 Sep 2009 | 4:26 am

(crossposted at BlogHer)It's a lazy Saturday afternoon; while I sit satisfying my college football habit,I'm re-evaluating what type of crafting I'm really going to be doing in the next year. With that re-evaluation will probably come a change in my crafting room design. It's been well over a year since I actively spent time in there; it's square footage that is not serving it's purpose. So I'm taking some time and figuring out what I want to have happen there.What ISN'T happening: much sewing or any quilting. I have a vision problem that makes it hard for me to change focal lengths. If I…
National Sewing Month: ReMake

Debra

17 Sep 2009 | 10:20 am

crossposted at BlogHerThe themes of National Sewing Month are to ReUse, ReMake and ReStyle. This week, I will be looking at ideas and inspiration for ReMaking items. EVEnl shared a great ReDo of a Tshirt shrug at Cut Out + Keep. With just some simple cutting, sewing a casing and adding some ribbon, we get the basic shape. Take a look, though, through the project gallery. By adding lace, yo-yo florets, diffrent ribbon styles -or even simply changing where the shrug is tied- different looks are created. LOVE.JoAnne's Fabrics offers a free pattern for a felted laptop sleeve (pdf). While the…

This Handmade Life
Shop Local Philly With Sarah Lockard of Around Main Line

AML125

Around Main Line CEO and ePublisher Sarah Lockard was born and raised in Philadelphia’s western suburbs, known as the Main Line. Around Main Line is Philadelphia’s very first emagazine, celebrating the people, places and events of the region — exclusively online. Today Sarah shares her favorite Etsy finds from Philly and the surrounding suburbs. You can find more of Sarah's picks in her Around Main Line series, Etsy Phavorites. As a big city with a small town feel, we are fiercely loyal and supportive of each other. That’s why I decided to launch…
Artistic Endeavors: Matt Revelli of Upper Playground & Juxtapoz Magazine

MRevelli

Upper Playground is a design force for a new generation, where underground artists emerge and art shows up on T-shirts, baseball caps, online videos as well as gallery walls. Bridging art and fashion, Matt Revelli, creative director of Upper Playground (which he founded in 1999), recently took on the additional role of editor in chief for Juxtapoz Magazine. It's hard to describe just how influential its pages have been for artists who insist on breaking down the barriers between fine art and pop culture. Matt is a mixture of brain and athlete, "the last of the bohemian jocks." "Dear Mr.
The Collectors: Boopsie Daisy's Pez Dispensers with Rikrak

boopsiedaisy, rikrak

I just love seeing what folks are collecting. I guess I feel it tells us just a little bit about what inspires them, what they love, and what they choose to surround themselves with in their homes. Today I'm delighted to present the next installment in an ongoing series here on The Storque: The Collectors. First presented on my own little blog, the rikrak studio, it's 11 and a half quick questions with a wonderful artist on what they're collecting (apart from their art supplies!). Oh October! How I love you! And I just adore this month’s featured collection, too! Like Halloween,…
Open Studio Tour: SnitchesGetStitches

FrucciDesign, SnitchesGetStitches

In this Open Studio Tour series, we snoop around Etsians' creative spaces to find out the story behind the drawing table. We want to know all about our artists, and in the process, perhaps get a bit of inspiration for our own workrooms!For this month's open studio, we visited SnitchesGetStitches. Melissa is obsessed with color, horror, and the bizarre and she says that she must have been the Bride of Frankenstein in a past life...so let's explore her spooky studio!What's your name and what kind of craft do you do?My name is Melissa Allen and I’m a craft addict. 90% of the time,…
The Collectors: themefragrance's Birds

rikrak

I just love seeing what folks are collecting. I guess I feel it tells us just a little bit about what inspires them, what they love, and what they choose to surround themselves with in their homes. Today I'm delighted to present the next installment in an ongoing series here on The Storque: The Collectors. First presented on my own little blog, the rikrak studio, it's 11 and a half quick questions with a wonderful artist on what they're collecting (apart from their art supplies!). Hope you'll just love this fabulous and vibrant bird collection with the talented themefragrance. What a…

How About Orange
Quiz: Name that corporate logo

5 Nov 2009 | 4:25 pm

Consumers everywhere, see how many corporate logos you can identify in six minutes in this quiz. I got 31 out of 36, then came to a screeching halt. Americans will have a distinct advantage in this game; sorry, international friends.
Printable cup wrappers

4 Nov 2009 | 8:15 am

Download and print these pretty paper cup wrappers by Amy Moss at Eat Drink Chic. "La Dolce Vita" is Italian for "The Sweet Life," and you can fill your cups with candy or treats and give them as party favors.
Tutorials: small, soft, cute edition

3 Nov 2009 | 9:38 am

A collection of projects for babies and people who like small cute things. If you like big ugly things, these are not for you. And I should clarify that the recipient of some of these projects might be a baby; it's not that I think a baby could actually make that monkey. I don't have kids, but I'm pretty sure about that.Felt rabbit keychain (above left) at Daily CuteCrocheted mini monkey with fez (above right) by Christen HadenCashmere baby hat and animal friend at Chez Beeper BebeFleece baby mittens at Canadian LivingArgyle onesie by Lu Bird BabyFelt stuffed piggie at DollmakerCrocheted owls…
Charley Harper high res images

2 Nov 2009 | 2:45 pm

While poking around the internet, I came across artwork by Charley Harper, modernist designer and illustrator. Cincinnati's Contemporary Arts Center has a bio on Mr. Harper, along with a few high resolution images of his work you can download. Not to be used commercially, of course, but you might put a bird on your desktop or make yourself a print. I'm a fan, and use my Charley Harper plates almost every day.
Free papercutting templates

30 Oct 2009 | 3:11 pm

If you've got nothing to do on All-Hallows'-Eve Eve, try out these Halloween papercutting templates from Cindy Ferguson's Scherenschnitte blog. Get the wolf here and the witch here. Cindy does amazing work and generously offers plenty of free templates to download. Some samples are below. Go get some Band-Aids and have fun.

The Soap Bar
Soap Making Speed... We Better Move It

Joanna

3 Nov 2009 | 4:08 pm

It's so hard to know how much soap to make, really. I just haven't been doing it long enough, but I'm guessing that if you are a seasoned soap maker, you probably have the same dilemma if you make cold process soap due to the lengthy cure time.Curing soap takes 4-6 weeks with the cold process method. To make Christmas holiday shopping deadlines...hmmmm...that makes the deadline for making cp soap ...ummm... Okay, if you made a loaf of soap today, you can sell you soap on December 2nd (4 weeks), but if you are like me, and wait 6 weeks, we would have to wait until December 16th which means,…
Crayons

Joanna

2 Nov 2009 | 6:10 am

Just a personal Halloween photo...My daughter and her friend were crayons. My daughter is the "puke green" one (yes, she chose the name for her color). They made the costumes themselves. Oh, oh... didn't you think they bought them at Target? ;)
My Ocean Titanic

Joanna

29 Oct 2009 | 12:56 pm

Made it yesterday...Steel Cut Oats for "sand" (maybe I should have gone for regular oats, copper mica, blue mica, purple soap balls, then previous batches shredded and made into sea plants.)Ocean TitanicScent: Beach Houseby me at Product Body
Amber Soap Porn

Joanna

29 Oct 2009 | 6:17 am

Here are some Etsy finds: soap scented with amber. I am digging the amber scents these days. The mystery, the sultry lure, the history... there are some new soap makers featured here that I have not seen yet.Eden by vervainsavonscented with Essential oils of Amber, Patchouli, and Jasmine.Also included resins of amber, patchouli, rose and vetiver.Cracked Amber soap by bedickensScent: combination of rustic cracked amber, satiny white lavender and deep earthy sage. Crystal Skull Soaps, 12 heads by Fig Leaf SoapScented with an ancient, mysterious black amber fragranceAmber soap by Hartley…
Ruby The Rock Star Has Her New Color About Her And She Is SEXY

Joanna

28 Oct 2009 | 10:47 am

S E X Y Ruby Red Rock StarComing to you mid- November

Making Mini Scrapbooks Blog
Blizzard Book

17 Oct 2009 | 4:49 pm

How to Create a Blizzard Book
Origami Books

17 Oct 2009 | 4:47 pm

Some Origami Books
Making Mini Scrapbooks Newsletter

17 Sep 2009 | 1:36 pm

The Making Mini Scrapbooks Newsletter
One Piece of Cardstock Mini Scrapbook

11 Sep 2009 | 1:18 pm

Here are instructions to make a one piece of cardstock mini scrapbook
Waterfall Slider

11 Sep 2009 | 10:15 am

How to make a waterfall slider element for your mini scrapbook

allsorts
Trick or Treat!

Jenny B

31 Oct 2009 | 3:38 pm

If you stopped by Allsorts sometime yesterday or earlier today, you were given an unintended sneak peek at some behind the scenes experimenting with my blog design. So,have a Jolly Halloween indeed! wink wink Cheers, Jenny
Poor neglected Allsorts

Jenny B

27 Oct 2009 | 7:43 pm

All the action is over at Owlsorts! Cheers, Jenny
A little owl told me...

Jenny B

18 Oct 2009 | 11:51 am

Some freakishly fun things have been happening over on my Halloween blog Owlsorts! Just yesterday the Wise Old Owl shared The Tale of the Family Cursed, my contribution to a celebration enjoyed by over 200 Halloween blogs. And also.... A...
Man do I love me a good yarn!

Jenny B

30 Sep 2009 | 10:12 am

Last week Vicky and I visited the Woolie Ewe, where we were delighted to find all their Cascade wool yarn on sale. Despite my limited yarn-wrangling skills, I couldn't resist indulging in this banquet of yummy jewel tone skeins. The...
Whoooooooo-sorts?

Jenny B

13 Sep 2009 | 1:12 pm

Hey guess what... a couple of weeks ago, I was just hanging around, minding my own business, when ouch! I got bit by the Halloween bug! In a big way. SO big in fact that I didn't think it would...

oh my so cute
Cute ninja wallpaper and tees

sesame

5 Nov 2009 | 3:10 am

Copyright © www.ohmysocute.com Singapore has talent! Design talent specifically! Here’s a cute HIROBOT ninja wallpaper designed by Tactical Urban Gears – a company based in Singapore... © www.ohmysocute.com. If you're not reading this as a news feed, this site you're reading is a splog guilty of copyright infringement. This feed is for personal non-commercial use only.
My pretty little fabric cosmetic pouches

sesame

25 Oct 2009 | 4:53 am

Copyright © www.ohmysocute.com Yesterday, I came across these cute pouches at a shop in Thomson Plaza. I was surprised they were going for a song. I bought the small one at S$4.80 and the larger... © www.ohmysocute.com. If you're not reading this as a news feed, this site you're reading is a splog guilty of copyright infringement. This feed is for personal non-commercial use only.
Play food hand sewn from felt to whet your appetite

sesame

19 Oct 2009 | 4:04 am

Copyright © www.ohmysocute.com If it’s food, it gets my attention! Here are some hand sewn playfood I found on Flickr. And it hooked me up to Felt Collection, an online store based in... © www.ohmysocute.com. If you're not reading this as a news feed, this site you're reading is a splog guilty of copyright infringement. This feed is for personal non-commercial use only.
Alice in Wonderland inspired vintage handmade jewelry

sesame

11 Oct 2009 | 2:15 am

Copyright © www.ohmysocute.com Do you like the tale of Alice in Wonderland? It’s quite a bizarre story but the characters are all very interesting aren’t they? And maybe because of the... © www.ohmysocute.com. If you're not reading this as a news feed, this site you're reading is a splog guilty of copyright infringement. This feed is for personal non-commercial use only.
Hand sculpted fairy tale clay art dolls

sesame

8 Oct 2009 | 2:56 am

Copyright © www.ohmysocute.com These art dolls are truly special. They’re all hand sculpted with paper clay without the use of molds. Amazingly lovely aren’t they all? What I like is... © www.ohmysocute.com. If you're not reading this as a news feed, this site you're reading is a splog guilty of copyright infringement. This feed is for personal non-commercial use only.

zakka life
Craft Project: Russian Nesting Doll Card

kawaii crafter

5 Nov 2009 | 4:48 pm

Matryoshka Doll Card OpenedCard ClosedToday I felt like making a matryoshka doll card, for no particular reason. Sometimes it's nice to make something just for the fun of it. The hard part is finding the time. That's why I like making cards, they're quick and easy. Not to mention, all you really need is paper, scissors, and glue. This card is no different, it's quite simple to make. The most time consuming part is just the cutting. Supplies:Card stock with printTan Card stockScissorsGlue stickFine point markers in black and redRight click, copy, and save on a 11 by 8 1/2 landscape size page.
Craft Project: Felt Christmas Ornament

kawaii crafter

3 Nov 2009 | 3:14 pm

It's official, Christmas crafting is in full swing. Lots of great Christmas crafts are appearing around the web such as here, here, and here. And to officially kick off Christmas crafting on Zakka Life, I'm sharing how to make this felt sphere ornament. It was inspired by one of those paper party decorations that fold into a ball. I just took that idea, scaled it down and used felt instead of paper. Enjoy.Supplies:6 Felt circles - The circles I used are 4 1/2 inches in diameter. I do not recommend using anything smaller than 4 inches.Embroidery ThreadSewing NeedleScissorsRibbon 3 inches in…
10 Things To Make with Halloween Candy

kawaii crafter

1 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

Every year I face the dilemma of what to do with all the Halloween candy. I always feel too guilty to throw it away. I try to incorporate it into recipes but instead end up eating a lot of it. So to combat the problem, I've rounded up 10 DIY projects for leftover Halloween candy plus one candy wrapper project.Candy Bar Bouquet Candy Bar Birthday CardCandy Car Ornament Candy LeisCandy TacksCandy Wrapper Purse, technically not candy but close enoughGift Mug with CandyIndian Corn Place CardsReese's Peanut Butter Cup TurkeySkittles VodkaSnickers Candy Bar Pie
How To Make Italian Sodas

kawaii crafter

29 Oct 2009 | 7:39 pm

One of my favorite drinks to serve at parties are Italian Sodas. They're easy to make and a nice alternative to traditional soda. My Grandmother would often serve these drinks when she had friends and family over. She taught me how to make the Italian Sodas and I've been making them ever since.Italian Soda RecipeIngredients:Flavored syrup - any kind will doClub Soda - If you can't find club soda or seltzer water you can replace it with sparkling water. But honestly, it's not the same.IceCream or Half & HalfTraditionally, Italian sodas are served in tall narrow glasses. Fill glass with…
Tinkerbell Birthday Party

kawaii crafter

27 Oct 2009 | 3:38 pm

Well lets start with the best part, shall we, the Tinkerbell cake!. Aunt Susan created another fabulous cake for my daughter's birthday. It was a hazelnut cake with chocolate filling. The cute little mushrooms on the cake are made with meringue. You can find a good tutorial on how to make the mushrooms on Joy of Baking if you feel like giving it a try.I served the cake with vanilla ice cream and these cute little mushroom cookies (made by Meiji). It's all about the details.For decorations, I always like to use two colors that relate to the theme. Since the theme was "Tinkerbell" I went with…

Geek Crafts
Crocheted Bender

Renee

7 Nov 2009 | 12:32 am

Who’s everyone’s favorite booze guzzling, foul-mouthed, kleptomaniac robot? Well, that’s easy! Bender! I don’t know why we see so many more Bender crafts than any other character from Futurama, but I love them! Coryjo posted her Crocheted Bender on craftster, he’s cute, he’s cuddly, and he’ll do anything to make a buck. Crocheted Bender
Brainnnnns!

Renee

5 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm

Let’s face it: Zombies are awesome. There isn’t any denying it, so it’s time to embrace it! LovieDovieAnn made this I Heart Zombies pillow for a friend, the perfect way to let the world know how you really feel about our undead friends. (via craftster). And how can you ignore a Zombie Cupcake? Honestly, just say the words “Zombie Cupcake” and tell me it doesn’t bring a smile to your face, even better when you realize it isn’t a punk band, but an actual baked treat. Porcalina posted this yummy ode to Zombies to her Flickr stream. Hey, zombie kids…
iPhone Cozy + Rocket Ship + Coraline Mystery Box

susan

4 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm

I adore this clever needle-felted iPhone cozy made by UrbanCraft - what’s even better is that she’s actually the owner of a pink Motorola flip phone: She listed the apps on her flickr page, from top left to right: easy wi-fi, youtube, clock, flickr wordpress, calendar, stocks, weather iTurn, french, iLuna, projects google earth, sketchpad, Obama, calculator phone, mail, Safari, iPod I also loved her rocket ship to disguise a thermostat and her gorgeous Coraline mystery box, including this tiny sweater, for this spring’s swap. Nicely done on all counts! Needle-Felted iPhone…
Dr. Who Costumes

Renee

3 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm

Kelly Szpunar at HunkyDory comes up with the best stuff. When this originally landed in my inbox I was thrilled,then disappointed as Halloween was over and geek crafts had been pretty well costumed…but after some discussion, it was decided that these amazing Doctor Who Costumes were too cool to hang onto until next year. The Doctor is so well done! And the take on the Dalek is too cool, I love that it is an “outfit” made to look Dalek-y and not a full Dalek suit made of carboard and spray painted tennis balls! And the super Doctor Who geek in me is thrilled that someone went…
Comic Book Shoes

Shayne

2 Nov 2009 | 11:01 pm

Craftster user VintageKitschMagpie got out the ModgePodge to decoupage these cute comic book shoes. Comic Book Shoes

creative little daisy
Sew Something in November: OK, lets get started!

creativelittledaisy

4 Nov 2009 | 6:25 am

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Don't expect to sit down at your sewing machine for the first time and whip up a tailored slipcover for your sofa. It's not going to happen like that. Sewing, just like any other skill requires some degree of practice and patience. That's why so many choose not to. I know that was my reason. I am an instant gratification type of girl, so I never had any interest in learning to sew. Then out of what I felt was necessity, I made some roman shades for my kitchen. Yes, it was a necessity. I wanted roman shades, in my kitchen and…
I'm declaring November "Sew Something Month"

creativelittledaisy

2 Nov 2009 | 9:09 am

How do you like that? Just like that, a public declaration. Tapping the mic and clearing my throat- ahem... anyone out there? Squinting at the bright spotlight in my eyes... ahem, like I was saying, November is officially Sew Something MonthYou can tell your friends, spread the word. Even if you've never sewn a stitch in your life, I want you to do so, this month. If you took home-ec in school but haven't picked up a needle since, this is your month to get your Martha on. If you have a sewing machine hidden in the back of the closet in the spare bedroom and you made your own drapes…
Rainy Saturday

creativelittledaisy

31 Oct 2009 | 8:38 am

I've just been tinkering with the blog design this rainy Saturday morning. I'm not at all knowledgeable when it comes to such things, I just wing it and do lots of google searching. Excuse the off-centeredness, I'm trying to figure out this whole custom css stuff. If you know of any good sites with tips for typepad users, I'd love to hear about them or if you can tell me how to center my photos in this main column. I changed to a fluid pixel format for the main column, but I'd like the photos to be centered. I also added one of those google friend connect widgets. I…
Just a few creepy touches

creativelittledaisy

29 Oct 2009 | 9:27 am

I'm not one to go all out with Halloween decor, but a spider web here and a scull there adds a nice spooky vibe to the place, don't ya think? ~ $1store skulls in an apothecary jar~dollar-general pumpkin in a thrift store sugar dish~vinyl {glittery} letters to spell boo on plain dollar store white plates on easels anything looks more important on an easel I'm hoping I can find some Christmas tree or snowman vinyl stickers to use on the same plates for Christmas. ~dollar store crows, spider web, and white pumpkins I printed the the letters B O O each in a different font and…
We all love before and afters, right?

creativelittledaisy

25 Oct 2009 | 6:42 am

Well, I just so happen to have a few to share. My kitchen has undergone many transformations. Some have been major, like new flooring (from bright white vinyl, to dark laminate, to tile) and lots of minor tweaks that just involved accessories and some in between changes like paint color and window treatments. Here's a little walk down memory lane to show some of the different looks my kitchen has sported over the years. About the first photo,don't look yet! Did you look? Before you do, just keep in mind, the same way blue eyeshadow was once groovy and parachute pants were so…

house on hill road
Tumbling

Erin | house on hill road

4 Nov 2009 | 7:33 am

Just popping in to say hi. It's been a busy week, but some R&R is on the horizon.Molly convinced me that Tumblr is a good thing. I agree. I'm having fun over there - it's like a virtual inspiration board and seeing that I can barely keep the house picked up, the real inspiration board rarely gets attention. Now I have it at my fingertips and I like that.All right. They are all calling my flight. See you next week.
My life is good

Erin | house on hill road

30 Oct 2009 | 1:39 pm

It's the second to last day of October and it's hot outside. Like in the mid-70's hot. Too hot for the second to last day of October. I can feel the rain coming - I have the headache to prove it. Or the headache could be from all the candy and lack of water that I have consumed (or not) today. Probably a combination of the two, truth be told.Yesterday I had a little luncheon for six friends. I served butternut squash soup with a spinach salad (pears, pecans, blue cheese, red onion, balsamic vinaigrette). I set the table with my grandmother's silver and the…
Out my window

Erin | house on hill road

27 Oct 2009 | 1:45 pm

Just thought I'd share my view. Pretty amazing, if you ask me.
Cleaning is eating into my craft time

Erin | house on hill road

26 Oct 2009 | 11:12 am

This weekend was a wash craft-wise. I had big plans - sewing some quilt squares and working on my next swap project. Neither of those happened. I did, however, make some progress on the state of our house. I taught my girls how to clean bathrooms and watched them do just that. Nice, huh? I also went through my plethora of knitting bags and chucked all the unfinished projects that I no longer wanted to make. Socks, anyone? In the process I found about 6 cable needles, dozens of stitch markers and the illusive size 7 dps. That was good. I spent 15 minutes trashing out the…
Stitch

Erin | house on hill road

22 Oct 2009 | 8:00 am

I thought I'd be back here on Tuesday, but, you know, life. I really appreciate all your comments about chores/cleaning from earlier this week. If you find yourself in the same situation as me, there are some good ideas in the comments. I'm trying FlyLady for now. I'll let you know how that works out.In other, much more exciting news - well, exciting for me - one of my projects is in the Fall/Winter issue of Stitch. I made this cozy wool muff back in July and am anxious to give it a whirl as the temperature starts to drop. Did you have one of these as a young girl? …

Storque articles: How-To
The Etsy Seller Handbook: All Our How-To's About Selling

daniellexo, Vanessa

Sellers! Below you'll find a handy index of all the useful How-To's about selling on Etsy. We're calling it the Seller Handbook, and we first posted it on the Storque in September of 2007. We'll be adding all new how-to's for sellers to this index and bumping up the post when we do. In this way it's a living document. You can also search the Storque tags for "Seller Handbook" for a chronological list of all our published how-to's related to Selling. Your Shop 101: How-To's for Getting Started on EtsyStart with this one: Etsy Success for Beginner Sellers!Please also see the Setting Up…
How-Tuesday: Rose Petal Tee From Appliqué Your Way

mtraub

Picking through the scrap bins at fabric stores is my cherished scavenging adventure for texture and pattern. In every nook of my craft storage, strips of vibrant textiles bloom forth. When I find projects made for these sweet trims, I'm not only reinventing a T-shirt or a tote bag, I'm also creating something completely new out of my neglected bouquet of materials. Kayte Terry, who has shared many a resourceful embellishing how-to on The Storque, has come out with a new book, Appliqué Your Way. These projects will inspire you to root your way through not just your own pile of…
Fabulous Packaging and Wrapping With rikrak

daniellexo, rikrak

Have you missed the first half of our series of holiday workshops for sellers? Don't worry, there are many workshops left to help you get your shop in shape this season. (View the entire schedule here.) Last week's workshop was hosted by Etsy seller, rikrak, our resident branding-with-packaging specialist! I've put together some great references from her workshop here, but make sure you read the thorough notes she's provided on her own blog, the rikrak studio. Packaging How-To Videos: Etsy Holiday How-To #1: Packaging Etsy Holiday How-To #2: Packaging Etsy Holiday How-To #3: Creating Labels…
Halloween Hosting: Kill Devil Punch Recipe From Food & Wine Magazine

foodandwine, Vanessa

Your guests will be reeling (in a good way) from this punch! The recipe for Kill Devil Punch came to Food & Wine Magazine from Phil Ward, bartender at the aptly named Death & Co. It features a block of raspberry ice that melts, slowly releasing its juices (a.k.a. raspberry blood) into the bowl throughout the evening. Ingredients Raspberry Ice 12 ounces water 18 raspberries Punch 9 ounces amber rum 6 ounces pineapple juice 5 ounces simple syrup 4 ounces fresh lime juice 5 ounces chilled champagne 12 raspberries 12 lime wheels Directions Make the Raspberry Ice: Pour the water into a…
Halloween Recipes From Parenting.com

mtraub

So you've knitted your toddler a frog suit, transformed your home into a haunted mansion, and rehearsed your shadow puppet performance. Now it's time to party! This weekend, shock and delight the little monsters in your living room by serving up a tray of delectable gore. Parenting.com has a slew of recipes for Halloween-friendly snacks. Check out the Slimy Jell-O Treats and Fruity Ghoul's Brew below, or explore the whole slideshow here. Slimy Jell-O Treats 1. Prepare a package of lime or apple Jell-O as directed and divide among 8-ounce mason jars or clear bowls, filling only halfway;…

The Apronista - Aprons, Vintage Aprons, Apron Patterns, Tutorials
Ok, so it's not an Apron...

2 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

b ut one of my online BFF's, Jen of Her Southern Charm, is sponsoring a giveaway at the Nesting Place - you could win one of Jen's most popular items! What are you still doing here?? Go GO! : ) Please Visit The Apronista's Amazing Sponsors Not Quite June Cleaver - Aprons, Pies and More! Skin Botanica - Natural, Organic and Vegan Skin Care Girly Aprons - For the Girliest of Girly Aprons For all of your practical Apron Needs
Suzy Homemaker

23 Oct 2009 | 7:47 am

I love vintage commercials, and as soo as I saw this one I knew I had to share it with you all - listen to the narrator's voice - it makes housework sound SOO appealing, doesn't it? Can you believe - burners that heat up?? Please Visit The Apronista's Amazing Sponsors Not Quite June Cleaver - Aprons, Pies and More! Skin Botanica - Natural, Organic and Vegan Skin Care Girly Aprons - For the Girliest of Girly Aprons For all of your practical Apron Needs
Mad About Plaid Aprons from Tie One On

16 Oct 2009 | 7:00 am

Are you mad about plaid? Then you will just die when you see the gorgeous Aprons in Amy Karol's latest Apron challenge - I love all the great pictures too!! Don't forget about Amy's next theme - Peppermint Candy! How perfect for Christmas!! Please Visit The Apronista's Amazing Sponsors Not Quite June Cleaver - Aprons, Pies and More! Skin Botanica - Natural, Organic and Vegan Skin Care Girly Aprons - For the Girliest of Girly Aprons For all of your practical Apron Needs
Super Easy Rhubarb Pie

14 Oct 2009 | 7:00 am

posted by Ali at Divine Domesticity Not only is this pie super easy, it is super delicious. It has got to be my favorite pie recipe of all time. Sweet and tart, totally perfect in my opinion. Enjoy! Super Easy Rhubarb Pie Makes several servings 4 cups chopped rhubarb 1 1/3 cups white sugar 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon butter Ready made pie dough 1. Preheat oven to 450-f degrees. Place first dough in baking dish and form to your liking. 2. Combine flour and sugar in a separate bowl. Add 1/4 of mix to the bottom of your pie crust. Add chopped rhubarb then add the rest of your…
Halloween Goodness

12 Oct 2009 | 7:00 am

H alloween has never been one of my favorite Holidays - I mean I LOVE fall, and I LOVE pumpkins and I LOVE seeing other people's creativity when it comes to costumes but I have never been a big fan of dressing up myself. But Treats and Decorating? I'm all over that - these are a few of the things that are inspiring me this Halloween season... Leigh Anne From Your Homebased Mom made this Yummy (and REALLY pretty) Candy Corn Cookie Bark - Definitely on my to-do list My friend Jen from Her Southern Charm shows her Fall Decor in her home - SERIOUSLY drool-worthy!! Sequins AND…

Design Mom
Polarn O. Pyret Giveaway

Design Mom

5 Nov 2009 | 11:52 am

Another amazing Giveaway today. And it's perfectly timed for the season. It's a pretty good bet that sometime in the last couple of weeks, you've considered your children's (or your own) winter wear. Will you be skiing this year? Will there be snow? Do his snow boots still fit? Has she outgrown her coat? Are there mittens missing?Well, today, the Swedish company Polarn O. Pyret (that's a mouthful, I know) will be setting you up. The winner will get to pick out any outerwear top and any outerwear bottom from their site. Or. Any outerwear “all-in-one” — like a snowsuit or bunting. The top…
Ask Design Mom Week — Family Christmas Gift

Design Mom

5 Nov 2009 | 11:51 am

Question:My husband's family always draws names for gift giving. This year we are gifting to his sister's family; they have six kids and a total of eight people. (Which made me think of you ;)). I'm wondering if you know of any good gift ideas that the whole family could enjoy, or perhaps a something we could get for each family member that wouldn't break the bank. The kids range in age from 3-14. Thanks! — LynnetteAnswer:Another great question. My family picks names as well. One of the favorite gifts we've ever received was a collection of Nativity Dress-ups my sister put together from…
Ask Design Mom Week — Blogging Advice

Design Mom

5 Nov 2009 | 11:50 am

Question:I just started my own blog this month! It looks boring, I have no followers, and I feel left out of the "Blogging Circle." Can you give me some tips on how to make my blog better? — TanyaAnswer:Thanks for the question, Tanya. I'll start by saying, you're not alone. I think I get questions along these lines more than any others. How do I grow my blog? How do I get sponsors? How do I change my header? How do I decide on a blog topic?But I confess, I don't answer as often as I'd like. For a few reasons. One, the answers are long. Long enough that people teach multiple classes and hold…
Ask Design Mom Week — Christmas Tree Decor

Design Mom

5 Nov 2009 | 11:39 am

Question:I'm in a new house, new life and looking ahead to the holidays, I realized that our decade plus years of marriage/college/med school/residency tree decor might be in need of a slight makeover this year. I'm just looking for ideas — new, old, swanky, homestyle, yadda, yadda. Any advice or pictures to find, etc.? Thanks! — StaceyAnswer:Love this question, Stacey. People have strong opinions about Christmas Trees: They should have the same decorations each year — it's tradition! They should be filled with ornaments made by children! They should be flocked! Flocked trees should be…
Ask Design Mom Week — Christmas Card Sources

Design Mom

5 Nov 2009 | 11:34 am

Question:-Do you know where I can find Christmas cards that have a religious message but that are also arty and contemporary looking? I love the tasteful designs at Tiny Prints, Paper Source, etc. but haven’t been able to find any that are religious. Any suggestions? — Renee-Do you have any good resources for great looking, unique holiday photo cards? The options at Walmart/Snapfish/etc just aren't cutting it. Thanks! — MeganAnswer:The two questions above are just a sample of the dozens of emails I've been receiving along these lines. Apparently, everyone is looking for pretty holiday…

sweet jessie
Giveaway!!

Jessie

5 Nov 2009 | 8:28 pm

So I told you how I received my package from Amazon - the one containing my pre-ordered copy of One Yard Wonders. The very next day, the doorbell rang again.It would appear that in my excitement to receive this crafty wonder in a timely fashion, I pre-ordered it not once, but twice (once in April, once in August). And so, my friends, I am left with an extra copy.And I would like to give it to you! To enter for a chance to win, please leave a comment here. Tell me about your favorite something: it could be a color, a song, a poem, a quote... anything that you refer to…
blog makeover

Jessie

5 Nov 2009 | 5:06 am

If you're reading this right now in some sort of reader, might I kindly ask you to pop out for a moment and explore the new blog design? I've literally worn out a little pointer finger sized mark in the silver finish of my wireless mouse this week working on it. Come on out, and kick the tires - let me know what you think!xoxops: I'll be back later with a giveaway!!!
One Yard Wonders

Jessie

3 Nov 2009 | 10:43 am

My doorbell rang 15 minutes ago, and I tiptoed out into the hallway... I didn't want to answer the door if it was someone I knew; I'm still in my pajamas and my house is a wreck - I've been waayyy too busy sewing to care about the state of my kitchen this week. But it was my friendly UPS man, and he doesn't wait for me to answer; He just leaves my packages on the little table outside my door. I quickly opened the door like the recluse I'm becoming and slunk back inside with my treasure. I was so happy to find my copy of One Yard Wonders inside that brown box.This book is a…
faux woodgrain and doilies, to boot!

Jessie

2 Nov 2009 | 11:41 am

Saturday night, we set our clocks back an hour for the end of daylight saving time, so I woke up bright and early Sunday morning. There was frost on the ground, and it was sooo cold, but I knew the flea market would still go on. I bundled up in my warm winter coat, grabbed a large thermos of coffee, and headed out by 6:30 am....There were only a handful of dealers at the market, but still I had hope of finding just one more treasure before the end of the flea market season.I found a tarp on the ground laden with tools. I always like when tarps are laid out on the ground - the best deals are…
Happy Sunsets

Jessie

2 Nov 2009 | 4:06 am

Good morning, lovelies! I hope you had a safe and wonderful Halloween. I've got big plans with my sewing machine today, but I just wanted to stop in and say hello and show you the amazing sunsets we get around here - the above photo is totally unedited- taken Friday evening. Gorgeous.Have a happy week!xoxoFollow my blog with bloglovin

every little thing
Haunted Gingerbread Cottages

Amanda Krueger

2 Nov 2009 | 8:47 am

The Witching Hour has come and gone, but I can't resist sharing a few pictures of our Haunted gingerbread House Making party last Friday!
Another First

Amanda Krueger

25 Oct 2009 | 5:40 pm

I didn't expect this to be such a big thing, but my goodness. The boy sure is growing up fast. That missing tooth has really catapulted Max into big-kid territory and I am never prepared for these milestones, as awesome as they are. I had the honor of pulling the tooth out myself (though it was barely hanging on by a thread,) and witnessing the shock and pure joy on his face as he cupped that baby tooth in his palm. Magic.
Getting Spooked

Amanda Krueger

17 Oct 2009 | 1:38 pm

God bless google. I had vague memory of a free Halloween banner print out from years ago, that I spotted on someones blog. After a speedy internet search, ten pieces of cardstock, and 20 minutes of cutting: I had a fantastic, free banner that looks perfect on our mantle! You can find the free print-out letters here on the Allsorts blog. It's neat that all the letters & numbers are available so you can make up your own, spooky messages. Max is working on his own mini-banner that just says "BOO!" I used black ric rack to string the letters (just like Jenny…
Barely Blogging

Amanda Krueger

11 Oct 2009 | 11:14 pm

What? Bears don't hang out in your front yard at 5pm on Mondays? One of the cubs was quite the climber. Look at him go! Be careful up there, little bear. (And bring me down some honey!) Sadly, Max and I were not at home for the bear parade, but luckily Mike and Ben were there to witness, photograph, and gawk at the little, furry family. Krissy had a broad-daylight bear sighting while she was visiting over the summer, too. We're used to them prowling around the garbage cans at night, but seeing them in the daytime is pretty crazy. What a strange place we live.
Happy Weekend!

Amanda Krueger

25 Sep 2009 | 5:52 pm

They Might Be Giants played a kid's concert in Raleigh last weekend and we missed it! I didn't even mention it to Max, he would have been crushed. The rest of their shows on this tour are just a little too far away. So sad. Max, Mike, and I have all been big fans for some time now. At lease we have youtube! Hope you all have a great weekend!

Mayfly
time flies

Alicia

27 Oct 2009 | 6:45 am

Fall is flying by here. There are still lots of beautiful trees out there, but there are lots of brown ones as well and falling crunchy leaves everywhere. I am feeling utterly overwhelmed with the number of things I need to get done in the next week or two, so I will be stepping away from the computer for a little while (except for the Noticing Project.) I intended to get a couple of very fun little things into my shop for the first week of November, so maybe I can get those done too. I'm spending most of my time these days taking portrait photographs and editing, editing, editing... Have a…
a first

Alicia

22 Oct 2009 | 10:37 am

Moments after the boys loaded into the car for school, the phone rang. It was them calling- practically still in the driveway. "We want chili for dinner tonight." It's really rainy again and predicted to get colder all afternoon. Yum. I tell them I can't make promises (I don't want to go to the grocery again. I just went.), but I'll come up with some kind of soup. I think I can pull off the chili if I quick soak some black beans. Even though I've never found anything except a few odd shaped beans, I always sort dry beans because it says so on the bag. Every time I think about just dumping…
walnuts.

Alicia

15 Oct 2009 | 12:28 pm

I couldn't leave up yesterday's crabby post for another minute. So here is one about walnuts: It doesn't get cheaper than free or more local than in the front yard, and you know how I am about the cheap and the local. BUT none of us like walnuts, not a one. This year we've got a bumper crop. Brian told the kids he'd pay them a dollar for every (5 gallon) bucket they'd fill. I think they got up to something like $15 before they lost interest in the money. And these three here aren't included in that. And there are so many more still on the ground or clinging to the tree. And they turn your…
grey wednesday

Alicia

14 Oct 2009 | 12:19 pm

It's cold today, and I can't seem to warm up. Apparently, I'm feeling crabby. Today is my alone/studio day. I've started about 5 things but finished nothing. I'm having trouble focusing. (duh.) Our school officially has the h1n1 flu. One of our 1st grade classes had 4 people in it yesterday. A couple of Kindergarten classes had barely a few more than that. It seems to be minor in most of the kids, but one of J's best friends had to be hospitalized. He's ok now. My kids have had the vaccine. I hope it helps. I've just about decided to get it myself when it becomes available. It has been rainy…
a little quiet breakfast for the mom

Alicia

9 Oct 2009 | 8:28 am

We are watching a couple extra kiddos for a few days. They are great kids and my own kids love them like family. It is going really well, but they are all off to school this morning and I am really enjoying the quiet. We have big, exciting plans tonight: homemade pizza and milkshakes at the bar, popcorn and a movie. Fun! Have a great weekend, everybody. See you next week.

Happy Zombie
Cracking the WIP

Monica

3 Nov 2009 | 4:15 pm

I’ve been asked by Karen to do a demo at her quilt retreat this weekend - and I thought I’d be a smarty and post a tutorial ahead of time. I have a tendency to teach/demo in Can’t-you-read-my-mind-glish. This way in case anyone forgets to bring their English to Can’t-you-read-my-mind-glish translator… there will be [...]
How do you say “Trick or Treat” in Russian?

Monica

30 Oct 2009 | 12:51 pm

My inspiration stares me in the face each and every day. As does my mysteriously constant desire for 2/99¢ Jack in the Box tacos. Inspiration on the design wall… so close it could bite me. A quick trip to Joann’s… some budget “felt”, some floss, a coupon and a twenty… I smell a Halloween costume. No plan, [...]
It’s almost time…

Monica

29 Oct 2009 | 2:28 pm

Tomorrow’s the big day! I always love seeing the H’ween costumes on the Today show, Jimmy Kimmel Live and Frosty, Heidi and Frank - and seeing what clever ideas they come up with. This is the ONE DAY it sucks for me not to have a job to go to. I so miss the [...]
Don’t kill your TV… paint it!

Monica

25 Oct 2009 | 5:25 pm

I spotted this TV last night at the Bridgewater Bristo. I’ve never been so enamored with recycled art as I have this funky old TV. I love lighting, and art, and re-purposing, and Astoria. I’m no Good Morning KPKM… so I hope my video works! Works best if you pause it, let it [...]
Itty bitty fun

Monica

16 Oct 2009 | 10:01 pm

I had so much fun with making my Poochie Bag pattern… I decided I’d make some Itty Bitty Poochie Bags too. Pee wee fun size bags. Itty bitty Trick-or-Treat bags filled with treats. H’ween fabric used is from my stash cupboard - it must be 5+ years old and I have no idea who/what [...]

One more Moore
Ohdeedoh!!

Morgan

6 Nov 2009 | 7:42 pm

psst...hey remember Henry's teepee party? Well, the lovely folks at Ohdeedoh are kicking off "Kids Party Month" and have featured Henry's part-ay. You can read all about it here, and be sure to check back- I can't wait to see all their great party ideas! It's been a crazy few days- will be back next week more regularly. Have a lovely weekend!
Today in the courtyard...

Morgan

4 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

Because I haven't taken any pictures of this growing belly since July.Because this is our month.Because next month I'm sure I'll have forgotten how uncomfortable I once was.Because I love these flowers that keep falling from the trees.Because these are the only shoes that are comfortable, and I want to remember them. Because I'm so excited to meet our newest little one. Because I can't wait to witness one more duckling enjoy life as much as these two do.(and they are so excited to meet him, too!)Happy November! It's gonna be a good one. I can just feel it.
A perfectly wonderful Halloween

Morgan

31 Oct 2009 | 11:59 pm

Chris took some friends to the airport this morning and called to say he was stopping on the way home to take the children out for breakfast. I had costumes to make, costumes that I swore up & down I would not be finishing at the eleventh hour. The day was mine (and much needed!) The boys decided to carve pumpkins when they got home and there was the inevitable overheard conversation about the 'puking pumpkin' from the patio which minutes later caused Henry to run into the house in a frenzy "I need the bag of pumpkin guts!!!" The costumes were finished a few hours…
Costuming

Morgan

28 Oct 2009 | 11:50 pm

I feel like I've been hit by a freight train. I've been sick since Saturday. Oy oy oy. Body aches, sore throat, sniffles, it's been a killer. I'm so behind on Halloween costumes. Kate's blue felt dress had to be made twice. 18 mo's/ 2T- they are similar...or so I thought. The 2T was gigantic and so the entire dress had to be remade. I'm glad though, the smaller version is such a better fit on her.Anyway- I've never made real people clothes out of felt before, have you? Probably not, I mean why would you make real people clothes out of craft felt??
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Sacks

Morgan

22 Oct 2009 | 2:44 pm

Each bag is approx 5 1/2" x 3". I have (7) packages available (50 bags per package.)You can find them here in the shoppe.

happythings
Hats!

Amy

5 Nov 2009 | 7:55 am

My first knit hats are done. Finally. They took FOR.EV.ER. But the good news is that I am now quite proficient at rib stitch! I was inspired to learn to make hats for a local Knitzvah (cute, eh?) project. Last year it was scarves (notice no purling.) This year it was hats - for distribution to homeless people during the December holidays. I searched the internet for the easiest hat pattern I could - one that used just regular straight needles since that was all I had. This one is what I used. The pattern said it was one-size-fits-all and it is true it really does…
Bea's first quilt

Amy

14 Oct 2009 | 4:49 pm

Bea and I collaborated on this little sampler quilt as a result of reading Quilt Block History of Pioneer Days by Mary Cobb. This book caught my eye at the library because I like the idea of teaching history from the point of view of home life - women/children etc. The book includes activities for kids to do but they are paper/coloring/scissor type quilt blocks. Here at the happythings home, we can do better than that! Bea picked out the all the fabrics and puzzled the blocks together after I cut them. Log cabin, rail fence, 9-patch, shoo fly, album, and modified square in…
Quick (if a little stinky) craft with the girl

Amy

4 Oct 2009 | 3:06 pm

We have done these sharpie "tie-dye" circles before. They really are fun and addictive and so easy. Bea and her friend were big on concentric circles this time and they all turned out cool. This link will take you to the instructions that we used - basically you just color a design on fabric with sharpies and then add rubbing alcohol to let the colors bleed out. We decided to make a t-shirt with it - her friend had made one before so Bea needed one too! I drew the stems of the flowers on after it dried. I'm thinking that a very cool quilt could be made from these…
For some reason, I decided to learn to crochet...

Amy

28 Sep 2009 | 6:27 pm

...and I do like it. Really - I love it. Doing it anyway. It's fast and fun and it makes SO much more sense to me than knitting does (which is not saying much... but still.) And when I make a mistake I instantly see it and I can take it out and fix it, unlike knitting where I have to solicit help or abandon the whole thing. It is important for me to be able to fix my own mistakes for I do make them at a rapid pace! I require fluency with a stitch before moving on so after I "got it" with a few small projects -- doll house blankets/rugs, wrist cuffs, little…
New.

Amy

23 Sep 2009 | 6:46 am

Megan and I have conspired to re-energize our Equinox project in honor of the new season. New things are exciting. Sorry, but Typepad keeps crashing when I try to insert a picture here so I guess you'll have to go there to see it.

Uncommon Grace
Thinking about Simplicity

Grace

6 Nov 2009 | 1:06 pm

We've had a lot going on this fall. A lot. Some of that, you know about. The dissertation, and work to graduate on time, being chief among it all. But we've had other stuff, too. Most of it good, some of it not-so-good. And we've all been pulled along in this current of activity, keeping afloat, but not always thriving. Each Monday, I wake up and realize, "Holy cow, I have seven cello students arriving this afternoon, and this house is a MESS!" And so Elisabeth and I usually spend about 30 minutes frantically tidying, vacuuming, and dusting the living room (where I…
To accompany the eating

Grace

5 Nov 2009 | 8:32 am

Of course you knew I would mention the high chair cushions, right? I made these especially for Fiona. I still have the ones I made for James -- and I love them, but I used quilt batting in them and they've become quite flat and floppy over the years. So with these, I decided to use this stuff instead, and have been so happy with it so far! Hopefully it will stay nice and springy through many washes. The fabric is by Kaffe Fassett (I think it was called millefiore), and I love it so much. It reminds me of the colors and motifs in the work of some of my favorite painters. This red…
Look who came to dinner!

Grace

4 Nov 2009 | 7:08 am

An exciting development in our house over the last couple of weeks or so has been Fiona's first solid foods. We waited a little longer with her than is average (she was right at eight months). This was mostly because she wasn't showing any interest until close to the end of October and I didn't want to push her into it. Current recommendations for beginning solids with breastfed babies can be found here. Just like her older sister and brother, Fiona's first solid food was sweet potatoes, which she gobbled right up! We've quickly moved to other fruits and vegetables.
One little, two little, three little...

Grace

3 Nov 2009 | 8:32 am

...Indians! Elisabeth requested an Indian costume this year, and since we're still all about the matchy-matchy, James quickly followed suit. (He really would do almost anything to be like his most beloved older sister. At least for now. It's so sweet!) I don't know what the original seed for this costume inspiration was, but Elisabeth was extremely concerned about "authenticity" (whatever that means in her seven-year-old mind). Given the fact that Indians don't seem to be a very popular costume choice these days, there were only two pattern choices among the…
Jack came to town

Grace

2 Nov 2009 | 9:27 am

Jack-o-lantern, that is. This was the tenth year in a row that my friend Rebecca and I have carved pumpkins together. Rebecca pointed it out, and it hardly seems possible ... but it seems that it really has been that long! Anyway, from the days of the two of us working together as bank tellers -- me, a recent college graduate and newlywed, she a recent high school graduate and transplant to our state -- to the current crazy mix of husbands, babies, dogs, cats, and -- well, always the original Martha by Mail pumpkin carving kit we used that first year. Always a simple dinner of pasta,…

SouleMama
Friday, From the Archives :: This Week in 2005

SouleMama

6 Nov 2009 | 4:26 am

It's Friday! Time for our weekly trip down blog memory lane- this one was a post I wrote for a weekly Self-Portrait Series hosted by Kath (the creator of Whip Up). *** *** *** *** Self-Portrait Tuesday: Identity {Originally posted...
where i've been

SouleMama

5 Nov 2009 | 4:09 am

:: warming, reading, snuggling, knitting and staring by the fire :: trying to stay on top of the essentials - with the help of many, many friends and sweet family (including, of course, Dorothy Gale of Kansas) :: digging for...
halloween 2009

SouleMama

2 Nov 2009 | 4:39 am

Our celebrations this weekend were full of silly fun, a generous dose of magic, and a gentle amount of spook! It's so much fun to celebrate the season with friends and family...in proper dress-up style, of course. And we were...from...
November First

SouleMama

1 Nov 2009 | 9:05 pm

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** WELCOME to November's newest Sponsors... unravelling - a creative e-course by Susannah Conway Umbrella Prints - modern Australian screenprinted fabric and more...
getting ready

SouleMama

31 Oct 2009 | 11:00 am

It's 2pm on October 31st. Is anyone else still trimming seams or waiting for glue to dry? Hmn? Dressing up is such a blast - What a fun, fun family day! Happy Halloween and Harvest Days to you and yours!!

Yarn Harlot
Underprepared, again

Stephanie

6 Nov 2009 | 8:34 am

I believe that I may have made my position on the brassiere public before in a subtle manner. I'm pretty sure too that copping publicly to the fact that I only own one of the regular sort of them means that they're pretty low on my list of priorities. I've got about 16 rants that I could give you on bras. Rant 1: Why aren't womens bodies good enough without modification or alteration? [Note: Rant 1 leads directly to Rant 1a: How come women have to shave stuff and wear lipstick to be acceptable, but men are fine the way they are? and as such it is best to avoid triggering Rant 1…
Shoemaker Syndrome

Stephanie

4 Nov 2009 | 1:05 pm

About 2 weeks ago, I hauled out the contents of my handknit sock drawer, which had been lying fallow for the summer, gave everything a bubble bath and lay it out to dry. That's when I noticed. The contents of my sock drawer are, considering that I am a sock knitter of a reasonably prolific nature, sort of meagre and shoddy. They all have holes, or darned spots or holes and darned spots, and dudes... it's not how a knitters sock drawer should look. You'd think that I'd have a pretty formidable selection from which to choose, but there's nearly squat in there. I think what happened…
Random Tuesday

Stephanie

3 Nov 2009 | 12:58 pm

1. I think the time change thing sucks and I don't care who knows it. Making dinner in the pitch dark makes me feel like I'm running behind and I squandered a day. No amount of looking at the clock seems to convince me otherwise. 2. One thing about going to SOAR and then coming back (no matter when) is that there was buckets of knitting time embedded in the travel. I churned out a pair of big mens socks: Austerman Step yarn, lost ball band, don't know the colourway. My standard sock pattern, 2.25mm needles.3. Damn. The 2 on my keyboard is funky. 4. They don't fit Joe. That really…
Good Mothers

Stephanie

30 Oct 2009 | 9:55 am

Since the requests for posts from SOAR are coming in, along with requests for any posts at all, since I was quiet for an uncharacteristically long time, I'm just going to bite the bullet and tell you all. I'm not at SOAR. I'm home. I came home on Wednesday, and I don't really know what to say about being here and not there, except that I felt that my family needed me, and I wasn't sure what to do, and in the end, I decided that there were worse things than being home when someone didn't need you, but little worse than being away when I should have been home, and I thought I could live…
Yes, It's true

Stephanie

26 Oct 2009 | 12:50 am

Just to finally answer the question "Can you knit on a plane?" Yup. Once again, on Air Canada, it was no problem. Denny, Rachel H and I made our way from Toronto to Oregon for SOAR, and we knit the whole way. The only thing that security said was "What you're carrying is perfectly safe, but.. what is it?" Answer, spinning wheels, spindles, needles and yarn. Thanks for asking.The only thing the flight attendant said was "Is this the Stitch and Bitch row of my plane?" Answer - "Yes. Didn't you get the memo?" She laughed. Turns out she was a…

My Paper Crane
too soon?

Administrator

6 Nov 2009 | 11:25 am

I don’t know if it is too soon to keep bombarding you with photos of holiday cheer, but I just cannot help myself! Up there is some egg nog plush with nutmeg and a bit of whipped cream. I’m still going over the whipped cream. Not sure if it is just right or not. I love egg nog but mostly prefer the Silk version. We saw some last night and we were going to buy it, but we were going out to eat and worried it would get warm in the car meanwhile…but soon soon we will be drinking some! One of my favorite things about right after Halloween is all the vintage Christmas goodies that…
oh november…

Administrator

5 Nov 2009 | 11:16 am

Things are coming along nicely for my big Holiday update on Nov. 15th. Here are some Christmas ornaments and hot chocolates (with mini marshmallows or plain) I will not be doing a Dec. 1st update…but instead will add everything I have on the 15th and just keep the shop open as long as there are items in it to sell. I forgot to mention but I am doing two holiday shows this year. Bazaar Bizarre Boston on Sunday Dec. 6th and Handmade Arcade Saturday Dec. 12th in Pittsburgh PA So December is going to be quite busy!
jack frost + gingerbread man

Administrator

4 Nov 2009 | 10:55 am

These guys are for Luvable + Hugable at Gallery Hanahou, which is coming up soon! I will have more info on the show on my news page very soon. I have a few more plush for the show that are almost done (they will be shipping out tomorrow) but meanwhile here are the finished two. I’ve had to stop taking dinner photos, since it gets dark so early now. Let me tell you Butternut Squash with browned butter looks pretty gross when you take its photos with a flash. But it tasted good :) I did get a photo of the Spanish Tortilla I made for my son’s Spanish class the other day. Everyone…
Thrifted

Administrator

3 Nov 2009 | 5:10 am

Yesterday I decided to stop by a few of my favorite thrift shops. It has been awhile since I’ve done any serious thrifting and it was a good day! The vintage suitcase looks like it was never used and cost me $1.50. The mouse fabric was pretty irresistible (and also $1.50) I love the little mushrooms on the ribbon (.25), and the last fabric has 3 and 1/2 yards ($3.00)…so I think it might become a Christmas table cloth, or pillow backings. I found a couple more items but they are being saved away for Christmas gifts so I can’t show any photos yet. I cannot resist a bargain :)
Hanukkah

Administrator

2 Nov 2009 | 10:47 am

I know Halloween has just ended, but I have begun to think about my holiday cards this year and wanted to do something special for all of our friends who celebrate Hanukkah. My sister is coming over this week to take beautiful photos of the menorah, so I can have them made into holiday cards. I’ll be making more of the dreidel plush for my big holiday update on Nov. 15th. Hanukkah begins at sun down on Dec. 11th this year, but that will give 26 days from the update, so hopefully plenty of time! I also have plans for another holiday card involving hot chocolate, and another ornament…

Apron Thrift Girl
glitter

Apron Thrift Girl

6 Nov 2009 | 4:26 pm

One of the most positive aspects of living near the city of Santa Rosa (pop. 161,496 or metropolitan statistical population of 486,630, making it the 12th largest in California and the 105th largest in the United State) is that there are lots of estate sales. The darker side of that of course is that people are dying but we try not to focus too much on that one. There are usually at least three estate sales a week in this part of Sonoma County. A surprising find..... A bowl full of yummy, sparkly, glass glittery letters. Some were still in their packaging with the original price tag for $4.95…
being grateful

Apron Thrift Girl

5 Nov 2009 | 5:03 pm

Dave has had to travel quite a bit this Fall. He's been to LA, Texas, England, Texas and Texas again. Oddly enough, it's much easier for us here than it was in Washington. I think it is because we live in area with so many different options when he leaves us. We can head in any direction and come across a new town, forest or ocean to explore. On Sunday we went to Healdsburg to my favorite ever restaurant in the entire world; Cafe Gratitude. As their site says: Café Gratitude is our expression of a world of plenty. Our food and people are a celebration of our aliveness. We select…
thrift find of the month

Apron Thrift Girl

4 Nov 2009 | 2:30 pm

I've been sick lately and am stuck with a not-so-nice and rather-quite-mean sinus headache. (any natural remedies to suggest?) It's hard to work at the computer so I escaped this morning to go thrifting. I have way too many winter clothes for California and too few warm weather clothes. I popped out to my favorite thrift store and found this delightful gift waiting for me. Do you ever just happen to overhear a conversation at a thrift store and get quickly interested in what someone is saying? All I heard was Bernina and I flipped my car around on two wheels and went in search of…
Part 3: Research

Apron Thrift Girl

3 Nov 2009 | 4:25 pm

Like many children growing up in the 70's, Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden were my heroines. I wanted to desperately walk in their shoes and become a child sleuth. While my friend was reading Sweet Valley High and gushing on and on and on about Liz & Jessica which left me wanting to secretly vomit I went on and on about Trixie and the Bob-whites or Nancy & Co. I looked for mystery in everything, even in something as simple as the mailman being two hours late to deliver the mail. We had an old Vets hall in the town where I grew up and I remember bits and pieces of a mystery that we…
simple warm bread

Apron Thrift Girl

2 Nov 2009 | 11:54 am

Simple warm bread can be a paradox in a gluten free world. Well I suppose you can have simple, warm bread but more times than not it will taste similar to cardboard mixed in with a sprinkle of salt. This is a part of the blogging world that I struggle with; food. Some of my favorite bloggers out there are constantly creating the most delectable food on the planet and taking fancy, gorgeous pictures of it. I always visit, try not to stay long and really try not to let my heart sink into a little bit of sadness of all the foods that I cannot enjoy. Posie made this today and my mouth watered in…

betz white
in the cards

Betz White

4 Nov 2009 | 9:09 am

Thank you so much for your kind comments about the felt illustrations I did for the holiday Kleenex boxes from a few posts back. I really feel fortunate these days to be able to hang onto some of my former freelance connections. By the way, I have heard about many sightings at Target from you! I went back to mine and they were cleaned out of the holiday boxes already! Rats, that's what I planned to give everyone for Christmas this year! (By the way, if you do buy some of the holiday Kleenex boxes, be sure to hang on to them. They make great gift boxes! I know, it's kind of weird, but that's…
Crafty Tree Trimmings: eBook

Betz White

1 Nov 2009 | 6:31 pm

I'm excited to share with you a new ebook I was asked to contribute to: Crafty Tree Trimmings is a beautiful ebook collection of ornament projects, designed by a talented group of crafters. Inside, you'll find step-by-step photo instructions and templates to make: Crocheted Flower Ornament, by Linda PermannFelted Gingerbread House Ornament, by Betz WhiteBead and Button Sparkle Ornament, by Susan BealVintage Treasure Ornament, by Kayte TerryGossamer Thread Three Ornament, by Diane GillelandPaper Globe Ornament, by Patricia Zapata, who is also the book's designer These projects range from…
Halloween 1977

Betz White

29 Oct 2009 | 6:01 pm

In 1977, Star Wars changed everything. It feels ironic that 32 years after my brothers and I dressed as the Star Wars trio you see above, my own sons are poised to be Anakin Skywaker and Jango Fett this Halloween.My brothers made their costumes themselves. Back then, most people did. Or at least we always did. Middle brother (14) made his own paper maché Darth Vader mask and a chest plate with electronic parts and switches. Oldest brother (16) made his R2D2 costume out of a cardboard drum and weather balloon, also paper machéd. He had a little tinted panel to see out and rigged a light that…
sneezin's greetings

Betz White

28 Oct 2009 | 12:42 pm

I'd like you to meet a few friends of mine...Hiya!****Oh, Hello!****Mind if we join you?****The gang's all here!****Last spring I was hired to design this lively group of Kleenex boxes for the Kimberly-Clark Corporation. You might remember that I did a box for them last year. This group is being sold exclusively at Target! (Oh, like I need another reason to go to Target! I have to go stalk my Kleenex boxes now! lol!)With their style direction, I drew and cut and stitched and appliqued these pieces in felt. They photographed my finished artwork and had it reproduced on the cartons. It was a…
You Asked For It!

Betz White

26 Oct 2009 | 6:14 am

Due to your requests, I’ve decided to squeeze in an encore session of my Felt and Stitch Holiday Workshop!Announcing my Online Workshop: Felt + Stitch Holiday II November 9 - December 4Join me for a second session* of my first-ever online workshop! No matter where you live we can gather together online to make wonderful felted wool projects for your holiday décor and gift giving. I’ll be teaching and working with you along the way through a combination of blog posts, downloadable PDF’s, and videos posted weekly, where participants can communicate with each other and with me. Projects…

Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog
Baidi

Leif Peng

6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 pm

“One morning Nayah is playing hide and seek with her big brother Baidi, when suddenly the room is destroyed and Nayah has disappeared. Baidi sets off on a wild quest in a fantasy world.” Teaser for the animated series created by Charles Lefebvre / Thierry River / Slimane Aniss BAIDIRby slimTUGG baidir.fr Posted by Leif Peng on Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog | Permalink | One comment Tags: baidir
Tintin Sketchbook

Matt Forsythe

6 Nov 2009 | 10:28 am

Check out Leigh Walton’s Tintin sketchbook Flickr set. Lots of great Tintins. And Haddocks. And Snowys. Posted by Matt Forsythe on Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog | Permalink | No comments Tags:
Jen Stark

David Huyck

6 Nov 2009 | 9:18 am

If you haven’t heard of Jen Stark yet, you’re missing out. Well, not anymore: she has a new website that is stuffed with her amazing brightly-colored creations. I’ve mostly seen her cut-paper sculptures like the one above, but she makes similarly bright drawings in two dimensions as well. Here’s a beautiful cut-paper animation she made as well: “Streaming Gradient” by Jen Stark from Jen Stark on Vimeo. (via @friendswithyou) Posted by David Huyck on Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog | Permalink | No comments Tags: Animation, cut paper, Drawing, Jen…
New popular edition of Charley Harper: An Illustrated Life

John Martz

6 Nov 2009 | 8:49 am

One of my most prized books is the beautiful, and massive Charley Harper: An Illustrated Life. It’s a book filled with Harper’s brilliant modernist nature illustrations, and one that I think belongs in every illustrator’s collection. Two factors otherwise prohibit more people from adopting the book into their libraries: the book’s physical size (it’s so big, mine hides away in a drawer because no bookshelf can handle it, and it’s big enough to be its own coffee table) and its hefty $200 pricetag ($135 on Amazon). As a book, it’s a work of art itself,…
Fuggy Fuggy: Thrift

John Martz

6 Nov 2009 | 7:56 am

Thrift is the latest superfun Fuggy Fuggy short from the Brothers McLeod. Their blog has recently been updated with some Fuggy Fuggy sketches, too. Fuggy! Posted by John Martz on Drawn! The Illustration and Cartooning Blog | Permalink | No comments Tags: Animation, Brothers McLeod, video

art for housewives
elsa schiaparelli and wearable art & gloves

cynthiak

4 Nov 2009 | 12:04 am

Pierluigi and I spent the weekend in Tuscany....I'd forgotten how beautiful the countryside was in autumn. When we arrived, we had a great and simple lunch of pecorino cheese, Leggi ancora | Pubblicato da cynthiak | Commenti Tag: fashion, gloves, schiaparelli…
recycle your socks

cynthiak

25 Oct 2009 | 5:08 am

10 flu-fighting foods sock puppet tutorial a must see__ Leggi ancora | Pubblicato da cynthiak | Commenti Tag: socks
newspapers

cynthiak

19 Oct 2009 | 11:53 pm

How to make paper basket - part 1 ---- make a shopping bag from newspapers Make Leggi ancora | Pubblicato da cynthiak | Commenti (1) Tag: baskets, newpaper baskets
folk art and howard finster

cynthiak

16 Oct 2009 | 11:32 pm

See Paradise Gardens in this REM video in Howard Finster's Paradise Gardens.---Leggi ancora | Pubblicato da cynthiak | Commenti Tag: folk art
pin cushions and junk jewellery

cynthiak

9 Oct 2009 | 12:16 am

Leggi ancora | Pubblicato da cynthiak | Commenti (2) Tag: pin cushions, jewelry

Doll
Salley sneak peak

mimik

5 Nov 2009 | 7:52 am

There is a dearth of finished projects around here, although I have made a great leap forward with my Kitty pattern. I spent yesterday working on the computer with a friend helping me out. Another few days of that and I might have something to show for it! Salley sent me some photos from her upcoming book and I asked her if I could post them. Here are the details- It is called POCKETFUL OF POSIES: A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes. Publisher, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Available, Sept. 2010. I love the beautiful leaf designs- they are often in my head when I work on a tiny world. I LOVE this…
Thanks!

mimik

1 Nov 2009 | 4:49 pm

Thanks to everyone who jumped in on my Halloween sale! It was great fun and got me feeling excited about starting into the Holiday season. And here are some strange postcards for this November 1, All Saints Day- I found them in a desk drawer when I was clearing stuff out of my parents’ house. I think my Dad probably bought these postcards in Mexico, in the early 60’s. And one more thing- here is a link to a bat graph- obviously I should have put that up yesterday!
Halloween sale

mimik

30 Oct 2009 | 12:25 pm

I am having a 20% off sale of everything in my Etsy shop, starting now and ending at midnight, 10/31 wherever. Just write “blog” in a buyers message, or send me a convo with that information and I will refund 20% of the selling price (not shipping). Okay, now that you are back, let me explain. When the market was canceled 2 weeks ago, I was left with a vague feeling of letdown. And, a pile of dolls with nowhere to go. There is no greater disincentive for me to get to work then having many finished dolls looking at me. I’ve got to get those guys moving out and get the energy…
ghosts of Halloween past

mimik

27 Oct 2009 | 5:18 pm

When I was a kid, Halloween was never about the costume. I was focused on was the bag of candy ahead. I would usually find something left over from my brothers that could be a costume- like a too small (for them) football uniform. That is one I remember. It got more fun when it was my kids dressing up although we started out very casually. I went on a little nostalgia trip today… This was the first year with costumes- construction paper circles, cut out and attached to shirts= clowns! We skipped a year- I seem to remember croup. Second costume year- sweatshirts with ears and tails=…
baby present

mimik

25 Oct 2009 | 7:57 am

I’ve been working away at my kitty pattern, slowly but surely. I printed out what I had written and tried following my own diections (so far), as I made this baby present. I will get it done- I am feeling positive about this very slow approach to writing it. Gives me time to think it all out and mull over what I’ve already written. The most recent tiny worlds are now in the shop.

PaMdora's Box
Creative Space and Time: Podcast with Ricë Freeman-Zachery

PaMdora

6 Nov 2009 | 10:32 am

To write Creative Time and Space: Making Room for Making Art, Ricë Freeman-Zachery worked all last year getting a ton of information and tips out of twelve artists (including me). She also got great photos of artwork, drawings, quilts, sculptures, collages, sketchbooks, and studio space from everyone. For my contribution to the book, I think I wrote about 20 pages of answers to her many questions and submitted upteen photos of drawings, quilts, sketchbooks and my studio. The finished book is densely layered with the photos, tips, challenges, and personal stories, and organizing into ten…
Candied Fabrics Video

PaMdora

3 Nov 2009 | 4:29 am

Candy and I have been corresponding via Twitter and blogs for a while, so I was happy to find her new YouTube channel. This free-motion stitch demo is from her blog showing her cool bedroom display of other botanical sketches. Also check out the abstract 3-D houses here. Related posts:TwitterThe Power of WordpressQuilting a Big One, part 2
The Haunted Hairdryer and other Halloween Constructions

PaMdora

31 Oct 2009 | 3:36 pm

We get a LOT of kids at Halloween at our house — something like 500+ each year the weather’s good. So we have to budget for our Pyramid of Candy carefully. Also decorating is very fun. Two years ago it was “KaBOOki – The Haunted Sushi Bar” and here’s another set of photos from that year – Evidence of Ghosts. This year, with help from two of our Chicago artist friends Mary and Charlie, the theme is “Domestic Nightmares.” It’s a work in progress as we’re working on the spotlighting for after dark, but here’s a sneak…
Slam Poetry Workshop and Ideas about Art

PaMdora

27 Oct 2009 | 8:19 am

Not the kind of place you’d expect to attend a Slam Poetry workshop – a little historic Baptist church with vintage neon sign. But the Missouri Literary Festival hosted many events over three days, in a variety of places, and this little church on the edge of campus was saved by Drury University and renamed the Diversity Center. I went to the workshop, not knowing anything about it. I was intrigued by the title and thought it might be fun to videotape. I’ve been spending a lot of my creative time this month working with video. I’m better at editing than shooting, so I…
Cape of the Super Organized

PaMdora

14 Oct 2009 | 11:53 am

I was joking on Twitter the other day: Time to put on my cape and become Super Organized Person. I had been stressing out all week, because two big events had be scheduled for the same day. And they were 221 miles apart. Months before I had promised to speak at a new series at the Foundry Art Centre for their new “Luncheon with the Artist” series that also kicked off Quilt National 2009 month. They gave me the choice of three dates, so I picked October 8. Last spring we had also promised to host a big event at the studio for a band of Lady Mariachis who would be traveling from our…

Penny Sanford Designs
"Peeling, Slicing and Cleaning Tomatoes fresh from the Garden"

Penny Sanford Fikes

26 Oct 2009 | 11:44 pm

Here is some footage I shot of Penny during this canning season. She and her Uncle Charles (age 83) have been happily making preserves and Penny has been absorbing as much as she can about the various ways one can preserve tomatoes, pears, etc... A big hit has also been something new, one of Penny's blog friends translated a new delicacy to english and Penny was eager to try it. What was this new sensation you may ask? Tomato Jam! Neither had heard of it before but upon further examination, both love it and Mr. Charles has been proudly giving away some of it and has had great feedback from…
Cooking with Ghosts

Penny Sanford Fikes

12 Sep 2009 | 10:35 pm

I felt them today. The ghosts of my mother, my grandmother, my great-grandmother, and my great-great grandmother. Women who have cooked for their families on this farm, established in 1837 by my great-great-great grandfather James C. Hamer. Gordon and Unc had gone to town to run a few errands, and I was alone in the kitchen ...probably alone on the whole farm. I was cooking Southern fried chicken in Grandma's cast iron skillet and watching a pot of pink eye purple hull peas, also prepared the same way I had watched Grandma prepare it. A third very large stock pot held a bubbling cauldron of…
Doesn't Your Dentist Sell Tires in His Waiting Room?

Penny Sanford Fikes

8 Sep 2009 | 1:31 pm

Gordon's root canal was scheduled for 10 a.m. this morning. However, at 10 a.m. this morning we were sitting in THIS waiting room.This waiting room was cleaner than most medical waiting rooms I have been in. It smelled better, and Gordon could bring me an ice cold diet soda to sip on as I stitched! You can't do THAT in a doctor's waiting room (can you?).So what happened? We had not made it out of the county when a wreck on the highway just ahead of us dribbled debris on the highway that was impossible to miss. We had one blowout, right front tire, and one nail in the right back tire.
Tomato Jam Recipe!

Penny Sanford Fikes

8 Sep 2009 | 1:09 pm

This recipe comes from Anina of Twiddletails ( http://twiddletails.blogspot.com/ ) Anina translated the recipe and converted it from metric measurement for me. Thank you, Anina! We LOVE this Tomato Jam!! --------------- Pick small, firm, ripe tomatoes. Wash and weigh them.**We used a low acid cherry tomato, small and sweet. Yellow tomatoes would be fantastic for this recipe too!** Pierce skins with a thick needle. Soak tomatoes in salt water for 20-30 minutes (1 tablespoon salt to 1 gallon water) Rinse well.**Unc did not want the peel of the little tomatoes to be in the finished jam (it's a…
My Tea Party Mini Quilt Design now on T-shirts, etc!

Penny Sanford Fikes

4 Sep 2009 | 8:40 pm

I've been so moved at the response to my new design, Tea Party Mini Quilt Pattern! At least one of you has told me that your husband will be carrying a big flag/banner made from my design in Monday's Labor Day Parade. Oh, I HOPE to see a picture of that! Others of you are making items to sell. You graciously asked permission first because my pattern did not have any statement preventing it. Here's my thinking on that: If you are making this design and putting it on jackets or making mini quilts, etc, you are not only spreading the word about our concern for this country, but you are also…

Seamless Skin
And she danced off into the aether!

Karoda

2 Nov 2009 | 4:34 pm

I'm having fun..trying to squeeze as much out of the days as I can before the season who will not be mentioned sets in. The last five or so days I've been marinating in the memory of spending time with artist Penny Sisto in her home and studio up in...
22 Oct 2009 | 2:00 am

Karoda

22 Oct 2009 | 2:00 am

If you've been reading Seamless Skin at least through one season of winter then you might recall how I feel about the season as I do my very best to express my indelible opinion. However, in light of the blue sky I enjoyed yesterday and what looks like another break...
Scene: i'm singing and skipping down candy lane where the flowers are loppy-pops and the trees are cotton candy

Karoda

8 Oct 2009 | 8:40 pm

"my brother has a blog my brother has a blog my brother has a blog my brother has a blog" (smiley face sun shines brighter and brighter as it sings along with me and dances over my head)
Beginning Again...

Karoda

7 Oct 2009 | 5:19 pm

photo album updated. I was there today with my oldest son and his friend. I sat and pointed. They moved.
One step forward, two steps backward, one and half steps forward, and hold...

Karoda

23 Sep 2009 | 7:06 pm

I really wanted to start this post by reciting Langston Hughes' poem, Mother to Son. You know the one...Well, Son, I'll tell you, life for me ain't been no crystal stair...or his The Negro Speaks of Rivers...I've known rivers. I've known rivers ancient as the world...but, that would have been...

Spirit Cloth
dye samplers

jude hill

6 Nov 2009 | 1:46 pm

i have been reading a bit about natural dyes and loving the journals and the notebooks kept with all the little squares of cloth recording the process. i decided that the best way to learn is to do it. and i think a nice way to record the results is to make cloths that would be samplers of process, and real life records of results. little dye quiltlets. so today i have stitched some undyed indigo stripe samples to some that have been overdyed with black walnut hulls soaked in water ... in a jar for about a weekand a half and that's all. i think i will just write my results and…
doodle friday and frozen dots

jude hill

6 Nov 2009 | 4:55 am

well i know it is only november but time flies so i am thinking about frozen dots, december dots, and the dot as a radiant motif. which is kind of cold and warm at the same time. a snowflake is a dot. and this idea reminds me of those hawaiian applique quilts. such a warm place but the arrangement of the floral motifs always reminded me of snowflakes.
stitching with a few more words

jude hill

5 Nov 2009 | 12:23 pm

...a few very windy days have stripped the trees of most of their leaves. these first november mornings are so bright and clear in the back room of the house. the sun shines in with such intensity i almost need sunglasses to sew. ...i was stitching without a lot to say when i noticed that i could catch the sun's reflection in the needle. what a moment. reflections are like that i thought. a chance to witness something that may never come again... never actually caught at all. ...so in my speechlessness i found my words again, and i did a bit of what-iffing inspired by the changing light…
weary wednesday

jude hill

4 Nov 2009 | 1:29 pm

...i got in over my head a bit with obligations. i am tired. the apple from some recent what-iffing has turned into a still life. i am just stitching with not a lot to say.
time to wake up

jude hill

3 Nov 2009 | 5:12 am

the moon was allowing me no sleep last night. it stared in the window with unnerving brightness. it seemed angry so i got up and performed a time keeping ceremony with thread and needle. and then i went back to bed. poof! zzzzzzzzzz. this morning i have noticed how my walnut and water concoction has turned dark in so short a time. my first nayural dyeing project in a long time. slow dyeing but not really.

Craftster Community
Re: Random Swap Round 2 Gallery

7 Nov 2009 | 3:45 am

Love the crochet roll and bracelet
Copper/Bronze Beaded Socks

7 Nov 2009 | 3:44 am

A pair of socks I made awhile ago. I love them. Whenever I wear them out I get tons of compliments and people asking where I bought them. Right now I have 2 pairs, I've been wanting to make more using different colors, but its tricky. Large amounts of...
Re: Need pattern or ideas for a one skein (7oz) baby blanket pattern

7 Nov 2009 | 3:40 am

Don't granny squares suck up the yarn? It's been awhile since I've made them since I don't care for the grandma's afghan look.... To be honest with you I'd chip in for a second skein of yarn and not worry so much about it... unless of course the blan...
Re: I heart zombies!

7 Nov 2009 | 3:34 am

That is so cool!!
Re: MOnster Hat

7 Nov 2009 | 3:33 am

Yeah it doesn't matter what it turned out as coz it's really cute! ^_^

blankanvas
have you seen this dog?

Pat Law™

7 Nov 2009 | 1:45 am

My mate’s feisty little female chihuahua, Jaws, is missing. Have you seen her? If you have, please call 9477 1444. Please help to pass this message around ok? On behalf of my mutt, Rebel, who’s going on a date with her soon, thank you for your help.
hp mini by studio tord boontje

Pat Law™

6 Nov 2009 | 11:31 pm

I have been looking for a netbook for the longest time because, let’s face it, as much as I’m a Mac user and loyal fan, the Macbook Air is kinda crap. While I appreciate the form factor of my Macbook Air, its performance has been less than satisfying. It’s a tad like dating the hottest guy in town, only to realise when you’re back in his place that he has a 2-inch dick. Yes, my male readers, like it or not, size matters. And for my female readers who disagree with me, well I’m glad you’re easily satisfied. I’ve resisted getting a netbook for a while…
twitrratr

Pat Law™

5 Nov 2009 | 5:08 am

Yet another tool that tracks opinions on Twitter. While the methodology remains unknown and the definition of positive, neutral and negative keywords are questionable, twitrratr is an easy-to-use free sentiment tracking tool for gathering an overall feel of what tweeples are saying. Interestingly, I’m the majority source for all negative tweets made about me.
expense-a-steak

Pat Law™

5 Nov 2009 | 4:57 am

How do you promote a steakhouse restaurant without boring the shit out of everyone with the usual (big fat photograph of your steak, peppered with the words delicious and tantalizing, followed by a testimonial from some CEO named Bob)? Learn from Maloney & Porcelli. Just don’t tell your Finance department. Thanks for this, Lee Boy. And congratulations on your move to Wunderman.
danese milano perpetual calendar

Pat Law™

2 Nov 2009 | 8:58 am

Kinda reminds me of my hustling days of yesteryear when I used to skip tutorials to shoot pool with the boys in the pool hall next to Hard Rock Cafe. I didn’t like snooker much (table’s too big, ball’s too small, legs’ too short, eyes too Chinese) but it was interesting watching one of the guys’ girlfriends keep score. How she managed to keep herself occupied with such a mundane task is beyond my comprehension. Designed by Italian Enzo Mari, the Danese Milano Perpetual Calendar is available at USD149.00.

Wooster Collective
One Not To Miss: WK Interact's "How To Blow Yourself Up" This Weekend In Los Angeles

6 Nov 2009 | 2:41 pm

Tomorrow night at Subliminal Projects in Los Angeles, WK Interact will debut his latest solo show, How To Blow Yourself Up. Coolhunting asked WK to explain the title. Here's his response: CH: The title could be interpreted as how to gain fame, which people who blow themselves up in fact do accomplish. Was this double entendre made on purpose from the outset?  WK: That’s a bit off the concept, a consequential accomplishment on their part... Funny, the double entendre is also consequential. There is a great deal left open for interpretation but this was really about getting into the heads…
Shit We're Diggin': Donato Sansone's VIDEOGIOCO

6 Nov 2009 | 5:22 am
“Paredes que hablan” (Talking Walls) - Buenos Aires Videos

6 Nov 2009 | 4:37 am

“Paredes que hablan” (Talking walls) is a series of sixteen short films profiling street artist of three cities in Latin America: Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires and Mexico City. Todays videos are from Buenos Aires: Paredes que Hablan :: Jazz from I.Sat on Vimeo. Paredes que Hablan :: Gualicho from I.Sat on Vimeo. Paredes que Hablan :: Nerf from I.Sat on Vimeo.
Seen On The Streets of New York: Prayer Booth

6 Nov 2009 | 4:34 am
Checkpoint Dreamyourtopia Comes To Berlin This Weekend

5 Nov 2009 | 5:42 am

From our friend Harlan: "I want to share this great event which happens this weekend in Berlin and coincides with the 20 year anniversary of the fall of the wall. Its a project from Dadara and part of the Art Wallbreakers festival, which Modart has been putting on all year. the checkpoint will be processing applications for passports and providing citizens with safe passage to the dream most suitable for them (as normal)" Download your immigration forms here:

mnartists.org: Articles
mnLIT Original: "The Four Hermans"

3 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

"The Four Hermans" by Brian Beatty is the first of our newly commissioned pieces by the 2009 mnLIT grand prize-winning poets and writers. Each work will be accompanied by a curated selection of work drawn from mnartists.org's vast database of artists.image: Ruben Nusz, "Naturaleza Muerta #11 (Tear Down These Walls)"image: Joseph Sinness, "Lot of You Left In Me"image: Mark Davison, "Three-Faced Clown Box"image: Benny Moreno, "Reply to Marx"
Musings on "World-Premiere, Full-Length" Ballet in Twin Cities Art and Culture

2 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

Dance critic Camille LeFevre weighs in on what makes for truly extraordinary big-ticket ballet, and specifically, on the latest world premiere at Northrop, "Moulin Rouge" by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.image: "Moulin Rouge: The Ballet" by Royal Winnipeg Ballet (full poster) image: Production photo from "Moulin Rouge" by RWB
mnLIT presents: Gary Dop

1 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

This week's mnLIT winner -- Gary Dop's delightful poem, "Bill Bitner at the Henry Doorly Zoo" -- was selected by poet and writer Joyce Sidman.image: mnLIT: What Light Poetry Project and the miniStories flash fiction competition
Chain Letter of the Soul

28 Oct 2009 | 10:00 pm

Britt Aamodt talks to friends and colleagues of poet Bill Holm, who died in February at the age of 65. A tribute in honor of Holm and his posthumously published collection of poems, will occur November 2 at Plymouth Congregational Church in Minneapolis.image: "Chain Letter of the Soul: New and Selected Poems" by Bill Holm (Milkweed Editions, 2009)
The Boundaries of Force and Harm

27 Oct 2009 | 10:00 pm

Theater critic Quinton Skinner weighs in on Mixed Blood's new production, Lynn Nottage's "Ruined", directed by Aditi Kapil. He calls it a "play of startling intelligence and acuity," a powerful story of survival in extremity.image: Regina Marie Williams ("Mama Nadi")image: Production photo for "Ruined"image: Production photo of cast of "Ruined"image: Regina Marie Williams ("Mama Nadi")image: Celeste Jones ("Sophie") and Regina Marie Williams ("Mama Nadi")image: Celeste Jones ("Sophie"), Bruce Young ("Christian") and Gavin Lawrenceimage: Regina Marie Williams, Bruce Young, Namir Smallwood, and…

janet bell
19 Oct 2009 | 1:55 am

Janet

19 Oct 2009 | 1:55 am

This is going to be very very difficult. I have drafted this post many many times and couldn't bring myself to post it. I feel I owe an explanation for my complete absence. Our little girl Poppy was born on 30th March on her due date but devastatingly only brightened this world for 7 short hours. She was simply beautiful. She died of an infection quite unexpectedly. A complete shock to all. Words cannot possibly describe the last six months so I am not even going to try. What I can say is that we are finally seeing light at the end of a dark tunnel and finding simple pleasures in life again.
6 Mar 2009 | 2:59 am

Janet

6 Mar 2009 | 2:59 am

It surpisingly snowed here on Wednesday night, so we jumped in the car at 5pm and headed into the heart of Snowdonia....beautiful and unexpected. I feel very lucky to live by the sea but be 25 minutes from stunning mountains. You must visit sometime. x
Mussels for dinner

Janet

3 Mar 2009 | 8:37 am

New painting and original available to buy in the gallery 30x30 inches.Not liking this miserable weather all of a sudden!!! p.s thanks for the sewing machine advice, I bought a simple Janome one, think it will do the job, looking forward to getting started
I'm a mug

Janet

28 Feb 2009 | 8:46 am

Hello all,So I have some mugs out, I'm kind of shy to say that my designs were picked by Dunoon to grace their mugs. I don't like to blow my own trumpet, even though its my job and I have to promote myself. I just do what I do and love my job. To think that other people like what I do enough to want to buy something fills me with absolute joy.Anyway, back to the mugs, it all started about 6 months ago when they approached me, I was of course thrilled but couldn't quite visualise them. They have done a great job, I just wanted to point out that the bottom mug in the picture has the harbour by…
Sunny Slapton

Janet

16 Feb 2009 | 9:20 am

This is the whole painting finished. Click to enlarge. It is 76x100cm. The original will be in Baxters gallery in Dartmouth next week and limited editions on my website next week too. Back soon x

teesha's circus
my boom

teesha

6 Nov 2009 | 1:37 pm

In Japan, it is hip to say "My boom is....(and then insert what you're into at the moment)". SO, my boom is masking tapes. These all come from Japan and I have just recently started playing with them. Look for MT tapes...that is the brand. They are slightly see through and I will be doing a video on using them soon. Certainly NOT something you need but if these look like your cup of tea, you might want to search some out.of course you can find colored masking tapes around here too... I don't collect too much but I seem to be obsessed with tapes lately.and lastly forgot to mention…
journaling materials - misc.

teesha

6 Nov 2009 | 1:25 pm

So, the woman behind these PanPastels emailed me after stumbling across my video where I used them. Come to find out, her company is just her and her husband who do it all. I was thrilled because I love to support smaller, non corporate companies. I really think their product is cool and am excited to use them more in my paintings and other ways. Anyway...each color comes in a tint and a shade and a regular. After I had bought 2 or 3 singly, I purchased the whole set of "shade" colors and really like them best for what I do in my journal. I really haven't found much use for the…
journaling supplies - pens

teesha

6 Nov 2009 | 1:12 pm

copic markers (sketch). I love them. I know I said you can get them from our website but we haven't been able to get them up yet (I know...we're not good market-ers). We sold them in sets at Journalfest. We have one set of orange pink, yellow and red, one set of blues & greens, one set of all the jewel tones; deep red, deep blue, a dark olive and dark brown (good set to have) and the 4th set is all lighter but muted. this set is really good for swirlies in the background. Anyway...the sets are $24 each ...oh and we sell just black for $6. should be up within a few days. I…
supplies for journaling-collage

teesha

6 Nov 2009 | 12:47 pm

This is my favorite adhesive but any similiar type of tape works just as well. Yes, you will go through maybe 3 refills on one 16 page journal but the ease of use is well worth it.I printed up a bunch of these reproductions of my journal pages a few years ago and still have a bunch so I thought I'd see if they worked good for cutting up. They DO! and I certainly don't mind you cutting them up and using them in your journaling either. we sell them on www.teeshamoore.com.and of course, we sell collage sheets too. I used them exclusively to cover some block canvases show here. Other…
hold tight

teesha

4 Nov 2009 | 5:40 am

If any of you are wondering where the lettering video is, we will get something up soon. Life is getting in the way right now. In the meantime, keep doing penwork in the form of dots, swirlies, circles, ...lots and lots of penwork. This is the part I didn't discuss and while I do alot of the journaling fast and furious, this is the part that I slow down with and be more meditative about. There is a wonderful blissfulness that comes from allowing your right brain to simply execute random marks while keeping your left brain out of it entirely. especially when you are listening to good music at…

Anahata Katkin
Studio Visit: Flora S. Bowley

ana

6 Nov 2009 | 12:19 pm

I recently had an exciting chance to visit Flora S. Bowleys art studio in Portland, Oregon. I became a fan of Flora's this year when I met her at a showing at Bohemia Gallery here in Ashland. (I shared her...
Home Sweet Home...

ana

3 Nov 2009 | 2:16 pm

This weekend I moved into a new bungalow craftsman home. I'm finally revisiting my things and tracing my footsteps over and over around the house. Tinkering, decorating, organizing and trying to imprint myself into the old house. I feel like...
Off to Journalfest

ana

19 Oct 2009 | 6:10 pm

I'm leaving in the morning for a fall road trip to Port Towsend for Journalfest. I'll be seeing 65 of you there over the course of two days in an Impulse Collage class I am offering. I've had a serious...
Planning?

ana

13 Oct 2009 | 7:39 pm

Every year- it's the same thing. Should I be comfy or creative? Halloween can seem like a string of bad costume choices. On year I was a mermaid complete with a head dress made from coral looking antlers with seaweed...
Hats On!

ana

9 Oct 2009 | 4:01 pm

I recently salvaged this image from my stash of paintings. The face had gotten too cartoon-ish for me and I was feeling like giving up on her at the time. She was surrounded by tropical lillies at first but since...

Judy Wise
Artful Journey

Judy Wise

5 Nov 2009 | 11:43 am

One of my clearest memories from my art school days was a compliment I received from a beloved teacher (Jim Hibbard) who commented that one of my drawings showed invention. I'd never thought about that before; that making art was inventing new ways of doing familiar things and new ways of thinking. I thought about that moment this morning as I folded laundry and as I imagined the class I'll be teaching at Artful Journey in July of 2010.In this unusual class (3 entire days to revel in one subject!) we'll be inventing a lot. Bringing to life little dolls and then recording their stories,…
On This Day

Judy Wise

4 Nov 2009 | 12:05 pm

I have big plans for the winter. Every day I chip away a little more at all that I want to accomplish. Of course as I do one thing nine others pop up wanting attention. But little by little. Caught up my taxes in the last 2 days. Just doing that much gave me such a lift. And thank goodness for friends who write and visit and lighten the load.Of course my journal keeps me entertained as I wade through the ups and downs; it is my friendly companion who accepts all my opinions and experiments. I do a little here and there as I go about the day. Eventually a page is filled.I think maybe I should…
Spirits on the Land

Judy Wise

31 Oct 2009 | 10:08 am

Can you feel it? All around me the earth is slowing down, tucking in for a long rest. Only the spiders and spores and decomposition are active, bringing an end to the gift that was summer of 2009. Halloween always feels like the end to me. If I could choose, I would say that New Year's Day should fall on November 1st as that is the day the clocks turn the wrong way for an hour and we begin something altogether new. And strange.I am behind. Deadlines I cannot meet. So far traction has eluded me as I try to catch up on all that I've neglected all year. Friends I want to visit, e-mails I've…
Coming November 1st

Judy Wise

29 Oct 2009 | 12:04 pm

Not available on my news stand until Monday so I haven't read the article yet but there is much excitement among the girls; Olga is having fits because she wasn't chosen for the front pages - you know what divas performers can be. Skylar is pawing the ground to see if his picture has been included and I am just happy that the little troupe of hams, I mean players, get to go out into the world and say hello.
Journalfest 2009

Judy Wise

26 Oct 2009 | 6:39 pm

Last Wednesday, after a great overnight visit from Stephanie and Vince, we all threw our stuff in our various cars and headed north to Port Townsend, Washington, for Journalfest, along with approximately 130 other journal addicts from all over the world.What greeted me there was gorgeous Pacific Northwest marine weather, dancing rainbows, autumn leaves and plenty of idle time to play in my journal. Time out from bills, telephones, the routine of home.Where I could admire the books others had made, exchange ideas and form friendships.Where I could learn about and buy a mobile PoGo printer made…

sweetpeas & snapshots
Blissfest...THIS WEEKEND!

marysmilove

4 Nov 2009 | 5:43 pm

Tricia, Kristen, Dan, Joy, Sherri, Linda, Mindy, Jessie, Maija, Laura...the list goes on and on.... I can't wait to hug and see all my peeps. I am in such a happy place right now...thank you all....
Let's go to Macy's...

marysmilove

4 Nov 2009 | 5:03 pm

That's right. I have kept it hush, hush for several weeks as one of my childhood dreams is coming true. I will be primping, fluffing and painting along The Thanksgiving Day Macy's Holiday Parade route in only 9 days. I did wipe a tear away from my Silver Bella shoes but we all know God has a divine plan for us. This job is a step in the door to a bicoastal visual position with a company I had worked for years with. Who knows... Liza-lou and I could take a bite out of the big apple. Bye-Bye, L.A. ; )..only half the time.
Sweet Jeannine..

marysmilove

20 Oct 2009 | 10:35 am

Photo taken by Mark Elson, Jeannine's wonderful husband. This photo really captures Jeannines' calmness and wisdom. I think she looks beautiful...Don't you love the ethereal effect of tin type photography? Dreamy.Mark has studied this art for many years. Check out his portfolio at www.markelsonpictures.com
Congratulations Miss Joy...

marysmilove

20 Oct 2009 | 9:59 am

The highly creative and talented Joy from "The Vintage Rabbit" selling handmade whimsies to delight is gracing this month's pages of "Romantic Home". They are super lucky to have this treasure in the mag.... We love you Joy!!!
Easy as Sunday Morning , My Sweet Surprise...

marysmilove

14 Oct 2009 | 10:13 am

While scouring the Fairfax Flea Market Sunday morning , I looked up from bedazzling treasures to see one of Art's truest treasures... Miss Jeannine Stein. One of our industries finest, if not the best instructor of Paper and Book Arts. I was blessed to have Jeannine shine her light at Sweetpeas for 3 years as our main source of inspiration. Well, The exciting news is that Miss Jeannine has shared her secrets in a new book, "Re-bound"...Creating handmade books from Recycled and Repurposed Materials Available at Amazon.com. Jeannine will be having a Book Signing…

Cut Out + Keep
Projects ≫ How-To's ≫ Decorated Remembrance/Veterans Day Poppy

6 Nov 2009 | 10:57 am

A beautiful poppy to wear for a good reason!
Projects ≫ Creations ≫ Tiramisu

6 Nov 2009 | 9:31 am

Classic Italian mocha dessert
Projects ≫ How-To's ≫ Stenciling A T Shirt

6 Nov 2009 | 7:38 am

easy way to stencil a t-shirt
Projects ≫ Creations ≫ Elmo And Cookie Cup Cakes

6 Nov 2009 | 7:32 am

CupCakes!
Projects ≫ How-To's ≫ Large Loops Copper Bracelet

6 Nov 2009 | 7:32 am

Link hammered rings together with knurled chain links to create an open, airy bracelet.

WREN handmade
save the date

Laura Normandin

6 Nov 2009 | 7:05 am

I'll be doing a few sales this Holiday season but this is one of the best around...
Taking custom doll orders now for the Holidays!

Laura Normandin

6 Nov 2009 | 7:01 am

I am making a big batch of dolls right now so it's a good time to get your custom doll order in for the Holidays. I won't be able to take any more custom orders after November 15 because I get busy with craft sales and everything gets so hectic around that time. The best way to order is to look over this page, and send me an email (with custom doll as the subject) with your preferences. I will most likely be finished with your doll in about 2 weeks. When I have finished I'll send you an invoice through Paypal for payment. You can't pick specific fabrics for the clothes but you…
A little creepy.

Laura Normandin

30 Oct 2009 | 8:32 am

This is what my desk currently looks like, kinda creepy, don't you think?
Spooky kitty.

Laura Normandin

29 Oct 2009 | 9:04 am
Paper chandelier craze.

Laura Normandin

29 Oct 2009 | 7:41 am

You may have all noticed there is a trend with the crafty blogs with paper chandeliers lately. It started a few years ago when I bought this paper chandelier at the Polish Art Center in Hamtramck Michigan. When I bought it, it was old and faded which I loved. The colors were muted, but now a few years later they are even more pastel. Here is what it looks like now...You can see it's based on a spider web pattern, Pajaki means spider in Polish.Lena Corwin decided to make some to sell at the Brooklyn Flea. A little brighter.And Sarah Neuburger, from The Small Object, made these. I love the…

Chica and Jo
Feature Friday – A great source for craft gossip

Chica

6 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am

Crafty inspiration definitely abounds on the internet, and sometimes there are so many places to look that it can get difficult to keep up with them all. Of course you all have Chica and Jo at the top of your list of sites that you visit regularly (have you still not subscribed?), but you might want to pick and choose the rest based on what can give you the most bang for your buck. If you’re looking for another great “compilation” blog that brings you all the craft gossip that’s fit to print, look no further than CraftGossip.com! Craft Gossip is a blog network with…
Super Mario Brothers party games

Jo

4 Nov 2009 | 9:19 pm

A couple of weeks ago, I shared with you a design for Super Mario Brothers birthday party invitations. At this party, the hostess had a couple of entertainment options for the kids that I thought were so great I had to share with you all. The two I found the most unique were individual pinatas and making character clings out of puffy paint. Individual One-Up Box Pinatas To make these nifty pinatas, which are opened with a string and not by whacking on them with a bat, you will start with an empty soda container. The long, skinny kind that is made for easy refrigerator dispensing, not…
Drying herbs

Chica

4 Nov 2009 | 4:56 am

The last things still growing in my small garden are some of my herbs. The basil and mint have long since died, but the sage and oregano is still hanging on, but just barely. Before the cold weather sets in for good, I wanted to capture as much of that herby essence as I could, so yesterday I dried a bunch of it. Drying herbs is so easy! All you need is a simple dehydrator, which you can easily pick up in the $35 range. I use mine all the time to make beef jerky, but that’s a post for another day. Today, we’re talking about yummy herbs! First I picked a bunch of fresh sage and…
Halloween party wrap-up

Jo

3 Nov 2009 | 11:50 am

The kids had a lot of fun at the Halloween party this past weekend. I wanted to share a few photos with you all of them enjoying the games and so you could see some of the cute costumes. We hosted the party in our barn so that is why you see so much hay! We played the classic game of bobbing for apples. You can see Super Mario here trying his luck. His sister, the witch, decided that playing with the barn cat is more fun than getting her face wet. One of the favorite games of the day was the digging for treasure. I think this was a favorite because a prize was a sure thing! I…
Peanut butter and jelly “gem” sandwiches

Chica

2 Nov 2009 | 4:23 am

My niece loves to throw tea parties, and when I’m lucky enough to be invited, I like to make cute little sandwiches for us to eat. The best tea party snacks are tiny, pretty, and yummy, and I met all of those requirements recently with my open-face, peanut-butter-and-jelly “gem” sandwiches. You can’t get much more ordinary than good old PB&J, but trust me — these sandwiches are anything but ordinary! The cutest part about these sandwiches is the bread, which needs to be in pretty shapes. To accomplish this, you can use regular sandwich bread and cut it into…

Twisted Knitter
Which Ewe are You?

Janet

2 Nov 2009 | 7:05 pm

Take the Which Ewe are You? Quiz
Holiday Ornaments :: FREE Patterns

Janet

27 Oct 2009 | 8:01 am

This morning, I've been searching Ravelry for some fast and easy holiday ornament patterns and thought I would share a few of these with you: * Fetching Knits' Cheers Mini Sweater [Ravelry], by Cheryl Niamath * Hogwarts Mini House Sock Ornaments [Ravelry], by Marie White * Miniature Knitting Bag Ornament [Ravelry] by Sharon Spence * Holiday Bird Ornament, by the Purl Bee (Thanks, Kim!) In addition to using them as actual tree ornaments, you could also use them as gift toppers. I'm in the midst of holiday gift knitting and other deadline knitting, so there's not much I can share here…
Erica's Granny Square Blanket :: WIP

Janet

20 Oct 2009 | 10:20 am

Although Erica's crocheted Granny Square blanket is still a WIP (work-in-progress), I just had to share it with you -- I'm really loving it. Since this photo was taken, she's added another skein of Noro Taiyo and will likely do one more after that. I think she's up to 6 skeins now and is choosing them randomly. She's also planning to crochet a border around the entire blanket -- approximate finished size is expected to be 36" x 36". My co-worker, Ann, taught Erica to crochet in early June (Ann's also the one who taught me to crochet) but Erica took to Granny squares a lot more quickly than I…
Finished Mondo Cable Cap :: Mystery KAL

Janet

12 Oct 2009 | 10:09 am

The Mini-Mystery KAL is complete and I am thrilled with the outcome. It's a slouchy hat designed with large ("Mondo") cables. I used one skein of Cascade 220 Heathers (mine was colorway 2453) but any worsted weight yarn with comparable yardage would work. Bonne Marie released the pattern in three phases (three consecutive Saturdays beginning September 26, 2009) to the knit-along participants and once the knit-along was complete, the pattern was made available at Chic Knits to purchase: Mondo Cable Cap. I love the large, simple cables: And I'll definitely make another . . . . . . because this…
Mystery Knit and Outlander

Janet

8 Oct 2009 | 6:42 pm

On Saturday, I'll get the final clue for the Chic Knits Mini Mystery Knit-Along. I am loving the project and SO excited about finishing it. It reaffirms my love (yet again) for Cascade 220 - especially the heathered colors. I've finished the first book in the Outlander series and have started the second book, Dragonfly in Amber. I'm definitely hooked, but I know I'm late to the party - how many of you have already read them? By the way, for those of you considering a Kindle*, the prices have dropped again. I love mine and have enjoyed the ease (and instant gratification) of ordering the books…

Etsy Shop for momomatic
Victorian Floral Vintage Celluloid and Bakelite Filigree Adjustable Button Ring in Antiqued Silver

6 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

$14.00 There is some gorgeous layering going on in this button ring. The bottom button is a glossy black, vintage Bakelite button with some beautiful carving. On top sits a blush pink, vintage buffed celluloid button with a swirl motif. Both sit upon an antiqued silver, adjustable ring band.I'm using a new ring band that I'm very excited about! The band accomodates a much larger finger if needed. And still tightens to be secure on a smaller one.The adjustment is made underneath the button and so there is no pinching whatsoever. And the weld that attaches the disc to the ring (where…
Blue India Vintage Etched Lucite Bead With 14K Gold Filled Chain

6 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

$20.00 I've used a washed aqua colored bead with an etched design and gold highlights. Wrapped it onto a gold toned headpin and then strung it onto a 20" 14K Gold Filled cable chain with a lobster clasp. Simple and striking, the blue stands out against any skin tone and the gold has a warm patina. I'm happy to alter this to suit you, just let me the length you desire.Thank you for looking!
Fab Fall Fuschia Flower Extra large Vintage Button Ring With Adjustable Gold Band

6 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

$18.00 This ring is extra large and extra fabulous!The base button is a big, chunky, brownish black, vintage plastic coat button. I'm not sure if it's carved or molded, but the details are great!On top I put a fuschia, vintage plastic button with a swirl imprint. The two together look like a fantastic, warm fall flower.I'm using a new ring band that I'm very excited about! It's a warm gold tone and the band accomodates a much larger finger if needed. And still tightens to be secure on a smaller one.The adjustment is made underneath the button and so there is no pinching…
Urban Acorns Black and White Earrings

6 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

$12.00 Mod 60's, vintage, white bead caps top off faceted black glass beads. Creating modern urban acorns. The headpins the beads are strung on are a bright, tarnish resistant silver. As are the medium length kidney earwires they dangle from.Thanks for looking!
Magic Beads Cobalt Blue Glass Bracelet With Gold Extender Chain

6 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

$22.00 The hues on these beads are magical. Really luminous and just the deepest cobalt blue. They have an AB finish and dimpled texture.I've joined the beads with a tarnish resistant, gold toned wire in a strong 18 gauge. There is an extender chain on the bracelet so you can easily adjust the length. Fully extended it is 8.5 inches but can be made longer by request.At the end of the extender is a tiny Czech glass bead in a coordinating blue shade. So lovely!Thanks for looking!

Grace Violet
Scraps

30 Oct 2009 | 8:09 am

It has been a while since I made a skirt for my two girlies, but after seeing Vintage Fern's scrappy skirt, I was inspired again. Dresses and skirts are always a hit at our house; and since I have an abundance of leftover fabric in my stash, I plan to make a couple and give them to the girls for Christmas along with some bright tights. It will be fun to see how each skirt turns out - you never
Coffee Cozies

28 Oct 2009 | 8:18 am

Pumpkin Spice Latte Season has provided ample opportunities to employ the gift I won from Sara at Red Owl Designs - the coffee cozy she gave away has made feeding my caffeine addiction an even more pleasurable experience!I knew these would make perfect little gifts for the upcoming holidays, and was happy to come across this pattern from House on Hill Road. Wanting to use really large buttons, I
Things I'm loving right now (or wish I had right now!)

19 Oct 2009 | 8:03 am

Fall break has already come and gone. We spent the long weekend with our church's college group on a retreat in the "mountains" (most people would call them hills, but in the vast prairies of Oklahoma, they qualify for that title!). Our girls loved having the attention of so many "big kids" and thrived on the fresh air and exercise that the time away afforded. A hike to the top of the "mountain"
Little Dresses Embroidery

9 Oct 2009 | 8:22 am

The time has come for my youngest to graduate to a "big girl bed." She has been in a toddler bed long enough! Since she's had the same decor since her nursery, I was excited to find something new.I was thrilled to find this bedding on clearance at Pottery Barn Kids.Scallops? Check. Polka dots? Check. As girly as can be? Check.Looks like I've got all of my bases covered!The sheets had me at
Factory Closed

6 Oct 2009 | 8:53 am

Does this give you a clue as to how I used my fabric yesterday?A better part of my day was spent cutting, and ironing, and sewing.My back was killing me after being hunched over the machine for so long, but seeing 8 completed purses makes it worth the effort!I followed the buttercup bag pattern again, but this time made it a little smaller.It is the perfect size for my nieces. I made one for each

Stamps
Coronation of HRH Sultan of Negeri Sembilan Stamp

Spirit

25 Oct 2009 | 10:16 am

Stamps in honour of rulerThe first day covers and stamps to commemorate the installation of the 11th Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, will be launched today.The commemorative stamps and first day covers launch will be held together with a royal exhibition at the Istana Lama Seri Menanti here.The month-long exhibition, organised by the Negri Sembilan Museum Board (LMNS), will display photographs of the royal family and historical materials from the days of Tuanku Muhriz's father, the late Tuanku Munawir Tuanku Abdul Rahman.LMNS director Shamsudin Ahmad…
1 Malaysia Stamps

Spirit

31 Aug 2009 | 6:45 am

Unity will now be portrayed in stamps.Pos Malaysia will be introducing limited editions of first-day covers of the stamps featuring three designs – One Malaysia, Unity and People First. These will have a value of 30 sen each and only 400,000 copies of each design will be sold at post offices.The One Malaysia design shows a 3-D image of the 1Malaysia logo while the background shows the official 1Malaysia logo arranged in the shape of a map of Malaysia.The Unity stamp illustrates the various races and ethnic groups united as one. The national flag is depicted in the shape of a heart to…
Tuber Plants Stamps

Spirit

22 Jul 2009 | 11:37 pm

The term tuber plants or root crops is applied to plants which produce subterranean structures that are used as human or animal foods. These perennial plants have organs which store plant nutrients. In many cases the storage organs may be a root or a modified stem, for example a swollen rhizome or corm, or a tuber such as a potato or a swollen root as in carrot or sweet potato. All these swollen underground organs are commonly spoken of as tubersRoot crops are the second most important source of carbohydrates in the worlds food, the most important being cereals. However, in the tropical…
Traditional Houses Stamps

Spirit

8 Jul 2009 | 9:21 pm

Traditional houses are a part of the valuable architectural heritage in Malaysia. There are a variety of traditional houses that can be seen throughout the different states in Malaysia. Traditional houses in Malaysia are reflected by the architectural designs that focus mainly on the styles, culture, skill, creativity, purpose and craftsmanship in building a place for shelter using the raw and organic materials that are available during the particular era.This collection of 16 stamps depicts the different houses of the states of Malaysia. Each traditional house differs in the architectural…
Engineering Excellence in Nation Building Stamp

Spirit

19 Apr 2009 | 9:32 pm

Engineering has been an integral part in the development of many nations. Great strides have been made in the development of Malaysia ever since we gained our independence in 1957.Closely associated with the nation's progress is The Institute of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) which was established in 1959 with the intention to reflect the independence of Malaysian engineers professionally.In the last 50 years since its inception, IEM as the prime mover of nation building, have strived to promote sound professional engineering practice amongst its members and enhance sound professional engineering…

whip up
whipup flickr group

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 8:08 pm

Am loving the new additions to the whipup flickr group – join and add your crafty photos to the pool. bitty birdie by beeper babe patchwork lace scarf by mairuru_siesta treehouse by melissastanley727 Similar Posts: this week at the whipup flickr group | whipup roundup {september wk 4} | join us at flickr + enter our Calendar comp | join us at flickr + enter our calendar competition | whipup roundup {September wk 2} | Share and Enjoy:
whipup roundup [wk 1 november]

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 7:45 pm

Am writing this post all garlicky from making aioli (it didn’t work out but am going to try just one more time – it looks ridiculously simple but there is a trick to it I have yet to figure out). Have also been working on a quilt this week (another project that is causing me grief), but in good news I made some delicious butterfly cream cakes (check out the recipe over here) and have made 2 pavlovas this week – oh such gorgeous summery fare (we like ours topped with cream, raspberries and passionfruit). FIND OUT HOW to get your 2010 whipup crafty collectible calendar here .
2010 whipup calendar: May artist – Amy Bethune

kath_red

6 Nov 2009 | 2:23 am

over the next couple of weeks we are going to find out a little more about the wonderful makers featured in the 2010 whipup calendar – Our May feature artist is Amy Bethune. Amy Bethune from the B-line – Amy also runs an etsy store, she lives in Michigan. Main craft of choice: jewelry design Craft hero: Martha Stewart–I know she has an empire of folks that help, but she comes up with some amazing things. Fave web site: many! but the pioneer woman is an inspiration. Fave crafty materials supplier: rio grande I asked all our participants to answer a few questions about their…
Advertising discounts

kath_red

5 Nov 2009 | 4:27 pm

For the next 10 days I am discounting all ad slots by 10% – use this coupon code when booking your ad pre-holidaysxweEBn valid until 18 November. Leading up to the holidays ad rates have increased – up to now they have been super duper cheap cheap cheap – while I have been trialling the new system (have you tried out the new system yet – just click on the ‘advertise here’ in the sidebar to give it a test run) (if you want to use this on your website to run ads I use igloohq.com) While I have increased prices in the main ad section – I have also added…
how-to: tessuti’s favourite top

craftapalooza

4 Nov 2009 | 8:15 pm

Nikkishell shares this cute top pattern that’s a current favourite with the ladies at Tessuti. Link to pattern. Similar Posts: top 100 tutorials of 2008 | how-to: updated half yard bag. | ruffle apron | whiplash – your favourites please | Plastique Monkey | Share and Enjoy:

Craftster.org Blog
Foodie Friday: Carousel Wedding Cake

sweets4ever

6 Nov 2009 | 9:36 pm

This wedding cake baked by bacettox is anything but ordinary! This colorful carousel wedding cake created for her brother and sister-in-law is detailed to a ridiculous level. From the cookie horses to the rotating base, bacettox did an amazing job on this creation. To see this project on Craftster click here: http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=326044.0 To see other wedding projects on Craftster check out the Weddings Board here: http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?board=97.0
Challenge #44, DIY Halloween Costumes 2009 - Time to Vote!

sweets4ever

6 Nov 2009 | 7:21 pm

Challenge #44, DIY Halloween Costumes 2009, is ready for your vote! Check out all of the entries here http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?board=432.0. Vote now through November 12. Good luck to all of the entries!
That’s Too Cute: Gnomes Are Our Homies

batgirl

6 Nov 2009 | 4:21 pm

Oh, gnomes. Those cute, bearded, pointy-hat-sporting, little guys always inspire a smile. Their rosy cheeks and little jackets are distinctive, and they seem willing to do almost any garden chores. The movie Amelie and the ad campaign featuring the Roaming Gnome have brought these reclusive fellows out into the spotlight, and they seem to have a natural affinity for Craftsters. To see lots of adorable gnome projects click here. These are a few of our favorites. We guarantee at least one of them will make you exclaim, “That’s Too Cute!”
Free to Be Crafty: How to Crochet a Sweater for Your Pup

batgirl

6 Nov 2009 | 12:46 pm

This week on Free to Be Crafty, DIY Sara shares her pattern for this utterly darling dog sweater. If your pooch gets a little chilly on those early walks, here’s a stylish solution! For more details please click here. Thank you, DIY Sara, for writing up this pattern for us! Woof!
Handmade Table Runners for a Festive Holiday Table

batgirl

6 Nov 2009 | 12:01 pm

A new table runner can give new life to your holiday table. With a little creativity and effort you can change your seasonal look for a small budget. Table runners can be sewn, embroidered, reconned, knit, crocheted, quilted, laminated, or anything else you can come up with! If you don’t want to make a runner, wax coated leaves or paper snowflakes, vintage doilies, or quilt patches can be arranged across the center of the table or placed at each place setting. Pretty handmade placemats or paper place cards can also make a big impact on a small budget. Look for remnants or inexpensive…

Art Bead Scene Blog
Findings Worth Finding - Ceramic Bead Caps

Heather Powers

6 Nov 2009 | 10:13 am

I'm so over the moon for Elaine Ray's bead caps. They are so earthy and delicate. Perfect for earrings, pair them with wire and stones for instant autumn inspiration. They also fit nicely with this month's fairy theme - they remind me of the seeds and flowers of the painting. You can find Elaine Ray's bead at Ornamentea.
Inspiration from the Fairy Feller

*melanie* earthenwood studio

5 Nov 2009 | 4:52 am

I am honored to have been asked to choose a piece of art for November's Challenge, so I picked one of my favorite pieces, the Fairy Feller's Master Stroke by Richard Dadd. My fellow bloggers have already given you a good amount of the fascinating history and story behind this painting and the artist, so I thought I would share my personal history and thoughts about it, and some of my works that were inspired by the painting.Above, a very regal fairy like necklace made with Earthenwood charms and a face stone, with Vintaj brass. You can learn the techniques to make this necklace in the class I…
November Monthly Challenge Prizes

Tari of ClayButtons.com

4 Nov 2009 | 8:27 am

We have prizes this month from 4 different sponsors! Plus 2 randomly chosen winners! How Fantastic is that?!!Green Girl Studios has some of the most wonderful pewter charms and buttons. For the release of Enchanted Adornments, Green Girl Studios is giving away a copy of the just released book + 6 charms and 1 toggle worth over $50.Visit Green Girl Studio's website to order some of their fantastic items. Become a fan on Facebook!Melanie of Earthenwood Studio creates wonder beads, charms, pendants and buttons out of porcelain clay. Her style and designs are magical. I love the fairy beads.
November Monthly Challenge

Tari of ClayButtons.com

3 Nov 2009 | 9:16 am

The Fairy Fellers' Master-Stroke by Richard DaddTo celebrate the release of of Cynthia Thornton's new book Enchanted Adornments, Melanie of Earthenwood Studios choose this enchanted painting to inspire your adornments for the monthly challenge.Dadd was an English painter of the Victorian era, noted for his depictions of fairies and other supernatural subjects, Orientalist scenes, and enigmatic genre scenes, rendered with obsessively minuscule detail. Most of the works for which he is best known were created while he was incarcerated in a psychiatric hospital.The painting was commissioned by…
October ABS Challenge Winner!

Heather Powers

2 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

OCTABS closeupOriginally uploaded by vintagebluestudioCongratulations to Diana from Vintage Blue Studio! You are the winner for this month's challenge. This entry was randomly chosen from all the qualifying entries this month. Diana has won an amazing collection of beads from Jangles and Diane Hawkey! Thanks to everyone for playing along this month. Join us tomorrow for our next challenge.

Naughty Secretary Club
This Sunday - Turn on the Radio and Take a Class!

Jennifer Perkins - Naughty Secretary Club

6 Nov 2009 | 9:24 am

This Sunday I would love you forever if you listened in to Inspired at Home on Blog Talk Radio. I will be chatting with Tiffany Windsor, daughter of Aleene Jackson. Ya as in Aleene's Tacky Glue. We are going to be talking about all kinds of stuff from crafts to crafty business. Not to mention there will be a roundtable discussion afterwards with a whole gaggle of awesome crafters! 6pm
I Love to Create - DIY Fabric Design

Jennifer Perkins - Naughty Secretary Club

5 Nov 2009 | 9:02 am

Recently I took a 3 part sewing class at Stitch Lab. For the first class we made a little drawstring bag. I brought in some fabulous vintage Barkcloth to make a pillow in class number 2. For the 3rd class we were making a skirt and I could not decide on the right fabric. Sure the stores were full of choices, but I thought it would be more fun to make my own. No, I didn’t go out and grow my
Goodbye Halloween I Miss You Already

Jennifer Perkins - Naughty Secretary Club

2 Nov 2009 | 5:08 pm

I thought I would give Halloween a proper send off by sharing a few pictures from my Halloween home decorating and Pint Size Halloween Party. Hope your Halloween was equally festive and fabulous!It made me a little sad to start packing everything away today into their black and orange storage tubs for a long stay in our attic. I'm thinking I might make this baby Halloween party a tradition. In
Soapylove Halloween Soap Adventures

Jennifer Perkins - Naughty Secretary Club

30 Oct 2009 | 8:50 am

There it was clear as day on pg. 16 of Debbie Chilatas’ book Soapylove: Squeaky Clean Projects Using Melt and Pour Soap, but I didn’t listen. Clearly stated under the section on molds it says “Glass and metal are not good choices”. Did I listen, noooo of course not. I didn’t break the soap making rules because I am some sort of rogue crafter I did it because I had done it before and it worked.
I Love to Create - Halloween Snow Globes

Jennifer Perkins - Naughty Secretary Club

29 Oct 2009 | 8:45 am

When I laid eyes on Martha Stewart's Baby Food Jar Snow Globes years ago, my crafty heart went all aflutter. I was always smitten on the idea and swore that one day when I had a baby I too would use my jars creatively. Well here we are years later and I'm ready for action. I typically make my own baby food, but I do keep a few jars around the house for meals out and on the go. Nothing says

Dabbled
Fall Entertaining: Have a “Soup Night”

Dot

6 Nov 2009 | 6:19 am

There is an old tradition among our group of friends called “Soup Night”. As the weather gets colder, and there aren’t as many outdoor activities to bring us together, it’s great to have an excuse to get together with friends for fun and fellowship. Thus, “soup night”. To do your own soup night, pick a core group of friends to host for the next (say) 4-6 weeks (skipping for holidays as necessary). It’s best to pick a consistent night, like every Wednesday. Each household hosts one night, and provides the main meal, some form of soup. Other guests chip…
A “I Miss Summer” Salad

Dot

5 Nov 2009 | 11:36 am

This salad is one of my favorites for the Summer, when the cucumbers and tomatoes are in abundance, but it’s great anytime you can get the ingredients and need a reminder of summer! This is quick and versatile .. it can be done as a side salad, or modded to be a great vegetarian main dish. The key to this is my favorite secret ingredient, seasoned rice vinegar. Easy Peasy Instructions: Slice up: Tomatoes (If not the season for fresh, I like to use grape tomatoes) Onions (Sweet, like Vidalia) Cucumber Put in bowl, and pour on seasoned Rice Vinegar about half way up the vegetables. Add…
Another Halloween is over…!

Dot

4 Nov 2009 | 6:33 pm

Thanks for joining Dabbled for Halloween 2009… hope you enjoyed it! You can see all the Halloween projects & posts here: www.dabbled.org/halloween. I also wanted to point out one last cool costume.. Check this one out posted by Mod Mischief! Several other really good ones, and how-to’s there, too. I’ll stick a few more pics from Halloween out on flickr in the next few days, too, and try to post some of the final party food pics.! Related posts:Halloween Crafty-ness PrepHalloween Wrap-up – Party FoodHalloween Food – Chocolate Pretzel Creep Fingers
The Perry The Platypus Costume

Dot

2 Nov 2009 | 5:17 pm

I promised better pictures of The Boy’s Agent P Costume, and some instructions, so here ya go! Here are some basic instructions, pictures follow. Body: At it’s simplest, you can do this with a green hoodie and sweatpants. Unfortunately for me, I couldn’t find a green hoodie, so I made a simple one out of fleece, by tracing around a current sweatshirt. (see pics below) I added a few pieces of ‘hair’ with black embroidery floss. Bill: The Duckbill was very easy! 2 pieces of craftfoam, cut into a bill shape. The bottom piece is slightly smaller than the top piece. I…
Dot Cooks! “Live” Halloween Party Food Prep

Dot

31 Oct 2009 | 7:53 am

Yesterday I did a “live-tweet” of my cooking/prepping food for the halloween party. Which basically consists of me taking cellphone pics of whatever I’m cooking. So, if you don’t follow me on twitter, here’s what I posted! Twitter for #dotcooks DotatDabbled: I’ll be ‘live-tweeting’ party food prep this morning, for real this time! Follow along at #dotcooks DotatDabbled: http://twitpic.com/nit53 – Anyone wanna guess what this is going to be? #dotcooks DotatDabbled: http://twitpic.com/niwzq – Anyone have a good recipe for leftover…

CraftStylish - All featured posts
Project Runway Week 12 Recap

6 Nov 2009 | 11:13 am

Posted by Victoria North The final challenge of the season reveals to us our final 3 heading into the Bryant Park finale.
Enter the Threads Halloween Costume Contest for a chance to win!

5 Nov 2009 | 6:50 am

Posted by Threads Magazine Enter your handmade costumes into the Threads Magazine Halloween costume gallery and you could be one of five winners to take home a Threads prize pack.
Glass Tile Graphic Pendant and Ring Tutorial

4 Nov 2009 | 9:38 am

Posted by johnwgolden For those of you looking for a jewelry making process that is more durable than just dimensional adhesive, and is relatively non-toxic.
How to Applique a T-Shirt with Roses

4 Nov 2009 | 8:45 am

Posted by Victoria North CraftStylish favorite Kayte Terry shares a project from her new book, Appliqué Your Way.
And the 5 Winners of 'Twinkle Sews' are...

3 Nov 2009 | 8:50 am

Posted by Victoria North Find out if you were one of the lucky winners of Wenlan Chia's new book Twinkle Sews.

Tip Junkie
Christmas Advent Calendar Tutorials

Laurie

6 Nov 2009 | 4:34 am

I’ll start featuring creative Thanksgiving ideas and tutorials next week, however today I’m focusing on Christmas. I love Christmas advent calendars and I making them even more. I think they make fun gifts, are cool traditions with the family, and usually double as Christmas home decor. So today, I’m featuring creative Christmas advent calendars you can make to count down to the big day! Whoohoo! 1. The Red Thread paper cone Christmas advent calendar 2. Brook made her advent calendar using tins and scrapbook paper 3. The Larsen’s made this advent turning…
Submitted Tips from Tip Junkie Readers

Laurie

5 Nov 2009 | 4:12 am

Thanks to the amazing Tip Junkie readers my “submitted tips” category is overflowing with many different types of how to’s and fun tidbits for your viewing pleasure. These are some of my favorite posts as there’s probably something in here for everyone! I hope you have a beautiful day and enjoy these creative Ladies’ creations. A quick heads up, I”ll be featuring Thanksgiving and handmade gift ideas next week. I would love to feature YOU so please submit your blog post. 1. Mariel’s Confidence Building Books For Girls 2. …
Creative Thanskgiving Tutorials & DIY

Laurie

5 Nov 2009 | 3:19 am

Photo by Gracie Next week I’ll be featuring some really creative Thanksgiving ideas. If you have a Thanksgiving idea you’d like me to feature, submit it! I’d prefer to show off Tip Junkie readers ideas. {{a bit biased}} Consider Tip Junkie your source for Thanksgiving Inspiration. I’ve compiled tons of fabulous ideas all in one place so you can make this Thanksgiving extra special for your family. Day 1: Place cards Day 2: Centerpieces Day 3: Table Settings Day 4: Organization Day 5: For the Kids Day 6: Traditions & Gratitude Day 7: Home Decor Day 8: Submitted…
TJ Mom-preneur Holiday Shop-a-thon

Laurie

4 Nov 2009 | 4:17 am

Next week I’ll be hosting the 12 Days of Junkie just like we did last year! If you’d like to be featured by giving an item away shoot me an e-mail with your product description, link, and value. (Value should be over $35 to get a good response from readers.) It’s the fifth week of our Tip Junkie Holiday Shop-a-thon where I spotlight the most popular products from a few of the stores in the Tip Junkie Mom-preneur Shops as gift giving inspiration. Buy your gifts from women & fellow bloggers and ask others to do the same for you this holiday season. Your friends and…
Talk To Me Tuesday – Mom-preneur Maddness!

Laurie

3 Nov 2009 | 2:41 pm

Sorry Ladies, I’m posting this a bit late today. It’s my day to volunteer at the school and my oldest is turning 11 tomorrow. {{Eeek}} Life is busy, but I couldn’t drop the ball on this post as it’s so important right now and such a passion of mine personally. I’ve blogging my fingers to the bone about the Tip Junkie Mom-prenuer Shop-a-thon, the TJ Mom-preneur Whrrl gift guides, and the Mom-prenuer Shops. However, I know that the real purchases are made when another blogger who you respect posts about a fabulous product. Let’s face it, if we are going…

greetingarts
it all got done

greetingarts

2 Nov 2009 | 4:22 pm

Somehow, we managed. Target didn't have any plain white knee high socks or tights in Rebecca's size, and on Wednesday night I was kind of panicking when I remembered an old pair of the girls' footless tights that had a...
change of plans

greetingarts

27 Oct 2009 | 6:39 pm

Last Wednesday night, as I was methodically knitting away on Rebecca's second stocking, I suddenly realized that Jessica's preschool Halloween party was two days away (they don't have school this week), and I had yet to start her Hello Kitty...
getting over SSS

greetingarts

20 Oct 2009 | 12:59 pm

Sounds like a bad cold or something, doesn't it? But actually, for you non-knitters out there (and maybe for you knitters who haven't been bitten by the sock bug yet), SSS stands for Second Sock Syndrome. The affliction that sets...
bat hands, boo feet

greetingarts

14 Oct 2009 | 9:49 am

Jessie came home with the cutest decorations from preschool last week. Bat wing hands on Wednesday... ... and Boo feet on Friday. So so funny! I'm thinking of having the girls do this on fabric with fabric paint, and making...
no random number generator for me

greetingarts

12 Oct 2009 | 10:51 pm

Lately, I'm figuring out I'm a pretty low-tech kinda gal. Excel is nearly giving me a migraine (I think I'm going to scrap it in favor of pen, paper and a calculator), and it took me nearly an hour to...

Tiny Talk
Mom Talk: Tips for Taking Great Pictures of Your Kids

Katie

6 Nov 2009 | 1:02 pm

Post by Jessica R. With the Tiny Prints Talent Search contest under way, we thought you might appreciate a few tried and true real mom tips for getting great pictures of your kids. 1) Take tons and tons of pictures. Most kids freeze up at the sight of a camera. They start to pose. They act goofy. They plaster a cheesy grin on their face. And they become a child you don’t know. The more pictures you take the less they’ll act up in front of the camera. After a few dozen shots they’ll get bored and go back to being themselves. That’s when you get the really great shots.
Don’t Forget! Enter to Be the Face of Tiny Prints!

Lea

6 Nov 2009 | 10:52 am

As you may have heard, we’re on the search for America’s cutest families, couples and children (up to age 10) with our Tiny Prints Talent Search. Be sure to enter your photos for an opportunity to shine! In the meantime, here are some sample entries that we’ve received so far! Don’t you want your chance to be the face of Tiny Prints and win $1,000? a
You Tell Us: How Young is Too Young for Facebook?

Katie

6 Nov 2009 | 10:08 am

According to this article from CNN Tech, more and more kids are lying about their ages to create profiles on social networking websites like Facebook and Myspace. Although both of these sites require users to be at least 13 years old, they have no real way to verify ages, which leads to computer savvy kids logging on in increasing numbers. Do your kids have social networking profiles? Are you at all concerned about their online activities? How young is too young for Facebook? You tell us! a

Diary of a Crafty Chica
Crafty Chica event in San Antonio, Nov 20-22!

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica

6 Nov 2009 | 12:01 am

I'm excited to announce that I'll be doing three days of demoing at a Michaels location in San Antonio, TX. I'm going to show 10 different ways to use a Crafty Chica flocked iron on (new designs!), and we are going to do hourly drawings where I'll give away things I've made. Could be a flower pot, could be a purse, you'll have to come and see!I've never been to San Antonio, but have heard so many wonderful things about the community, the art and culture - I am stoked beyond the sparkle of the brightest glitter flake!I'll have more updates as the date gets closer! I just got confirmation…
INSPIRATION FRIDAY: Lupe Flores

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica

6 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

This week I'm spotlighting one of the busiest painters around, Lupe Flores. I've been following her work for a few years now, and am thrilled/honored that she is now part of my Inspiration Friday series!Lupe has mastered what so many artists strive for - a striking signature style. Combine the eeriness of Tim Burton, the doe-eyed innocence of a Blythe doll, delivered with the power of a saucy Lola Beltran ballad...and you have scratched the paint palette of Lupe's work. Well, in my opinion, anyway.Lupe always has an exhibit going on somewhere and I'm excited that Arizona is on her list. This…
Focus on the finish line. That's all.

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica

5 Nov 2009 | 8:40 pm

(Paper mache mask, el Escritor, "The Writer")Eh, getting stuck in writing my novel. I've picked up a new habit since I did NaNoWriMo the first time. I'm editing as I go. That REALLY can slow a chica down.I've decided not to make "winning" NaNo (50,000 words by Nov 30) my priority, instead I'm focusing on writing a good book. If I reach 50,000 by deadline, cool, I'll print out the certificate and staple it to my inspiration board. If not, no worries, I'll still have my fabulous story to finish writing by the end of the year.Tonight I popped into Twitter and read so many tweets from NaNo…
People are already shopping!

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica

5 Nov 2009 | 8:13 pm

new Crafty Chica goodies Originally uploaded by TíaBelThis is from TiaBel, she bought these from one of the Michaels store in California. I love that these stores have the display set early. Awesome!These are flocked iron-ons, and they come two to a pack. One large one and one mini!Thank you for sharing, Belen!Subscribe in a reader
This week's family adventures (in pictures!)

Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica

5 Nov 2009 | 5:36 pm

Maya channels her inner Disney princess for Halloween.Peace, love, and glitter!Kathy :-)P.S. Check out my new book and product line!Subscribe in a reader

Today's Creative Blog
Fabulous Friday Giveaway!

6 Nov 2009 | 11:51 am

Grab Our Button! (copy/paste into your own website or blog): <center> Yea, yea, yea…..I’m late in getting this posted! So I’m relying on you to pass the word. Today’s Giveaway is MORE HOLIDAY CARDS! Amber with Announcing You! is offering a $20 gift certificate to her shop for a digital design + envelopes or $20 off a printing service. It’s that time people………gotta start figuring out those cards. I hope all my stationary giveaways have been helpful. Leave me a comment telling me your favorite kind of cupcake by Sunday 5pm pacific time.
Between Naps on the Porch

5 Nov 2009 | 4:03 am

Since I’m focusing on table settings this week…..I will try to stay focused. If you have a Fall or Thanksgiving table setting you’d like to share, email me. Krjdemmon@gmail.com… maybe I’ll do a full post showcasing everyone’s idea. Between Naps on the Porch Sit up straight because this girl is formal. She has a very grown up approach….there will be no burping at this table. It’s stunning. Isn’t it lovely? It smells so good…….well I bet it does…..She snatched up these dishes when she feared Spode was stopping…
Get Your Craft On

3 Nov 2009 | 4:04 am

Grab Our Button! (copy/paste into your own website or blog): <center> It’s Tuesday already? Yippeeee! I LOVE Tuesdays….This is when you bring your stuff to me, rather than me running all over blog land and back to find my inspiration. So much talent out there. I love it when we share our creative side with each other. Show me something old, something new………you get the idea. It can be anything. But I would be really happy if you had a Thanksgiving table setting to show me. It may just get you featured this week. If you can,…
Sweet Pickles and Chocolate

2 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

I usually fly by the seat of my pants when it comes to writing this blog. Surprised aren’t you? I go where the wind takes me and if I’m inspired by a blog…..I feature it…….that day! This week, this month……..I’m going to try and have a theme………we’ll see if it works for me. This week, it’s about Table settings for Thanksgiving…..Center pieces ……….decorating the table……..I usually labor over my Thanksgiving table since all my inlaws are here and my mother and I MUST impress everyone with my inspiring talent. Because then they…
Skip to My Lou ~

31 Oct 2009 | 5:02 am

Happy Halloween! I’m feeling rather festive, so why not offer more stuff? FREE PATTERN TO 10 PEOPLE! I featured Skip to My Lou way back in the day. I thought she was so amazing…..and I still do. You can see her original feature here. When I featured her, I had no idea that I would end up friends with her and blog partners in our media stuff. I had no idea that I would be playing patty cake with her 4 yr old daughter on Skype. Cindy gave me the go ahead to offer this darling felt bag and food pattern to 10 people! This is such a great toy for little ones, or a…

Vanilla Joy
Picasa Collage Tutorial

Kelsey

5 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

A while ago when I talked about scrapbooking with smaller pictures, I had some questions about Picasa and how to create a photo collage, so here is a little tutorial on how to do it! Click on each picture to view it larger and see in closer detail the parts I highlighted in red. 1. Select and hold the pictures you want to use in your collage in the photo tray. Click on the picture and then click the green lightning bolt looking button just to the right of the tray to hold those pictures there. (You can hold your mouse over each button and a little explanation will pop up, so if in doubt:…
Scrapbooking our Summer Vacation

Kelsey

4 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

I took tons of pictures on our summer vacation to visit family this year, and I wanted to include most of my pictures but not have tons of pages (and work). I decided to make 5×7 collages in Picasa with 6 picture each, using all horizontal or vertical pics for each collage – each picture was about 1.6″ x 2.3″. With all these small pictures, I could include tons on each page! My goal was to create grids of these small pictures so that each page looked mostly the same. Once I got going I discovered that making each page look the same was going to be too much work for me,…
Paint Chip Inspiration

Kelsey

3 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

This weekend we were at Lowe’s picking up some paint and I grabbed a bunch of extra paint chips to see if they couldn’t help me come up with some new color schemes for my scrapbooking pages. I tend to get in a rut with colors, and paint chips are a great way to experiment with different color combinations in the planning stage. Here are some pages I found that I used some of the above color schemes for – I’m going to have to try really hard to mix things up in my upcoming pages! I also picked up some of the little booklets with the color schemes arranged for you…
Halloween Crazy Crayons

Kelsey

30 Oct 2009 | 6:01 am

We had just enough broken crayon pieces to make one crazy pumpkin crayon with our Wilton silicone pumpkin mold! Put your broken crayon pieces into a well greased muffin tin and bake in the oven at 400 degrees until the wax has melted. Let new crayon completely cool before removing from the muffin tin and then go crazy!!! Similar Posts:Halloween Muffins Gearing up for Another Giveaway with Cinnamon Rolls! Halloween Giveaway Halloween Giveaway Winners!!! Dinner in a Pumpkin
Win a Dream Kitchen Suite from Frigidaire and Step2

Kelsey

30 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

Step2 is currently running a national contest for a new dream kitchen from Frigidaire (complete with refrigerator, dishwasher, over the counter microwave, and oven) and a new Step2 toy kitchen! To enter the Step2 Creative Kids in the Kitchen Contest, submit an essay of 250 words or less on how your family fosters creativity when cooking and having fun in the kitchen together. A second winner will receive a Step2 kitchen of their choice, and a third place winner will receive a $50 gift certificate good toward any toy onstep2.com. Good luck! Similar Posts:Mother’s Day Giveaway — $50…

house wren studio
hats, hats, hats

charlotte

6 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am

The wind kicked up off the river the other day prompting me to think about making another version of the hat - for me and for class. Some folks are going to bring those Daddy-sized shetland wool crew neck sweaters....
attn: silver bella hat class peeps

charlotte

4 Nov 2009 | 9:05 am

Just checking to be sure you all have your thrifted, wool sweaters washed, felted and ready to go for class next week. We're going to have some kind of fun cutting and sharing. Thoughts and tips: If it has a...
please forward

charlotte

2 Nov 2009 | 6:22 am

photo courtesy of Nicki Dwyer Halloween was quiet in my neighborhood. It used to be the best spot for trick or treaters, but town parades and busier, better blocks with more candy per square foot get the action now. We...
little houses and pine kits

charlotte

29 Oct 2009 | 5:48 am

I'm packing up for Silver Bella and rediscovered some extra kits from last year's class. Thought I would put them up on Etsy for those of you who might be ready to make holiday decorations and gifts. The kit makes...
house wren studio sessions: the cottage class

charlotte

26 Oct 2009 | 8:18 pm

On Saturday, nine creative and inspired women joined me and Suzanne (and Roxy) for a day of crafting at home, enjoying each other's company, delicious food and gifts. We gathered in my friend Jane's lovely living room to spend the...

Southern California Potters
For Those Into Wood Fire, Get To Muddy's This Weekend!

2 Nov 2009 | 7:40 pm

Muddy's is located in Santa Ana California @ 2610 S. Halladay St. 92705. Check out their site www.muddystudio.com. I will be there and will post pictures!
If In The LA Area, The Xiem Sale Is Coming

1 Nov 2009 | 7:37 pm
Meditations On The Apocalyptic

18 Oct 2009 | 11:07 am

"Meditations on the Apocalyptic is an exhibition of recent works by five California artists who deal with the potential catastrophic consequence of human folly. As an artist the theme of ultimate destruction via the nuclear has been a long time personal concern for me. As a curator I selected these five artists because their diverse yet collective voices approach the broader theme of ultimate annihilation from many directions, allowing in the curatorial practice a far greater voice than is possible as a single artist. Each artist has contributed new work to this exhibit. While expecting…
More From the American Museum of Ceramic Art

14 Oct 2009 | 6:29 pm

I went back out to AMOCA to see the Harrison McIntosh exhibit. This time Mr. McIntosh was there and signing copies of his new book Harrison McIntosh, A Timeless Legacy which is available fom AMOCA. That is Celeste Iida, President of the American Ceramic Society, Southern California Design Chapter getting her copy signed. I decided to tak a bunch more pictures and post. There are so many beautifull pieces on display I wanted to share. Below is one of the large platters on display and a few images of the sculptural work that he did.Many fine examples of his work are on display, from platters to…
Art From The Ashes

11 Oct 2009 | 5:33 pm

Saturday October 10th I took a drive up to the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens to see the "Art From The Ashes" show.Art From The Ashes is a non profit organization formed to create artwork to benefit those devastated by the ravages of fire. "ART from the ashes is a collaborative of independent artists and volunteers, founded by native Californian Joy Feuer, who contribute talent, time and energy to create art for resource. Artwork is crafted from materials collected from fire site locations after personal items have been removed. Debris that would otherwise be cleared and dumped into landfill…

Crafters Craft
How to Make a Werewolf Costume

24 Oct 2009 | 7:00 pm

This instruction video from Howcast teaches you how to make a werewolf costume. This video shows you how to make a werewolf mask. The ingredient list is long but the result looks good. You will need someone to help you make this. The second video in the series can be found here. If you wanted to save time you could make the Werewolf legs and arms described in the second video and wear them with a store bought mask. Permalink | Our News Feeds
Domino's Halloween Pzza Slice Costume

20 Oct 2009 | 1:00 pm

Your child could be a slice of Domino's pizza for Halloween. You will need iron-on transfer paper to make these work. Obviously, this is a way to get you to transform your child into a walking billboard for Domino's pizza, but it is kind of clever. You can find the instructions and downloadable Domino's pizza toppings here. Permalink | Our News Feeds
Turn a T-shirt Into a Halter Top

11 Oct 2009 | 4:00 pm

Megan Nicolay, the author of Generation T: Beyond Fashion: 120 New Ways to Transform a T-Shirt, explains how to turn a t-shirt into a halter top with just two cuts and no sewing. Megan also knows how to turn a t-shirt into a pillow. Permalink | Our News Feeds
How to Make a Mushroom Shelf

30 Sep 2009 | 4:00 pm

FinderMaker has provided a Mushroom Shelf Tutorial. The tutorial teaches you how to make a cool little mushroom shelf, like the ones pictured above. You first have to find your shelf - a mushroom that "appears shelf-like and feels solid and woody." Then you have to dry it, trim and mount it. It's not a quick process but the end result is a unique mushroom shelf of your very own. (via Boing Boing) Permalink | Our News Feeds
How To Turn a T-Shirt Into a Pillow

31 Aug 2009 | 4:00 pm

Megan Nicolay, the author of Generation T: Beyond Fashion: 120 New Ways to Transform a T-Shirt, explains how to turn a t-shirt into a pillow in this video. No sewing is involved. You need a t-shirt, sharp scissors, a chalk marker and a mixing bowl. Take a look: Permalink | Our News Feeds

Sommer Designs
Friday Flickr Favorites

Carrie Sommer

6 Nov 2009 | 7:44 am

I like this one. Click on the image to see it larger. Made with FD Flickr Toys. You should try it.
Fabric Inspiration

Carrie Sommer

5 Nov 2009 | 7:55 am

Last Friday was one of Scott's [every other] Friday's off. We usually try to go out to breakfast or lunch, and this time, when I suggested my favorite little French bistro in Manhattan Beach, he trumped me with a downtown suggestion. He had found an old copy of Los Angeles Magazine and they had a review for a little hole-in-the-wall downtown, near skid row, and he had to try it. And he had to drag me there. Near skid row. You know what? It was really good! It's called the Nickel Diner, and it looks like a throwback to the 50's, but I think it's newer. The menu seemed…
Sommer Designs Pre-Holiday S A L E

Carrie Sommer

4 Nov 2009 | 6:32 am

Are you on my email list? Seriously, you should be (*cough* there's a sign up over there on the sidebar). I wouldn't spam you, in fact, I only send out my email newsletters, at most, once a month. But oftentimes I include promotional coupon codes for discounts, and well, who doesn't want a discount now and then? So, I was cleaning up around these here parts, and came across a bin of aprons from a season ago (or so). It was my from my first foray into outsourcing, and to keep costs down, I had a lot made. And I still have some. So I went around, checked inventory, did some…
Mystery Socks: F I N I S H E D

Carrie Sommer

3 Nov 2009 | 7:44 am

That was fun, can we do it again? I pretty much finished the toes on both socks over the weekend and then sat down in front of my computer yesterday and watched the Kitchener Stitch video on Knitting Help a few times before I tried it myself. It wasn't hard, but my closure seems a little bumpy. I am not ripping it out and trying it again; I'm very happy with the end result and dudes, it's just the toes. I really like how the toe decreases with this stitch. It's more gradual and it feels like there is more toe room. I like that. I also like that I totally knit A PAIR…
Hanging with my Girlies

Carrie Sommer

2 Nov 2009 | 8:25 am

The best part about being rejected from a craft fair is getting to GO and shop the craft fair! Yesterday Kelley & I met up with Shari to walk and shop Handmade Brigade at The Camp in Costa Mesa. By the way, The Camp is a thoroughly awesome place - not too many shops, but all of them are super cool leaning towards sustainability and the handmade. My favorite shop was this converted Airstream. The event was very small with a few vendors scattered outside (it was a gorgeous day), We just loved walking around and seeing people we knew from Twitter and Facebook and all over the vast crafty…

Frequently Wrong but Never In Doubt
Guilty blog surfing

Sharkeysday

4 Nov 2009 | 10:45 am

I was honestly waiting for something to load and ran across this massively tempting online needlework event:http://needleshowretail.com/index.htmlFar better than me retelling the tale, you can read the backstory to this “show” (which starts tomorrow).I think it sounds VERY tempting!I just dumped a bunch of money (not even going to say how much) on some YUMMY silk thread for my next project. Here's a little teeny preview (there's MUCH more to the project coming):
Thank heavens - it's over - WAIT! the holidays are just beginning!

Sharkeysday

1 Nov 2009 | 6:16 am

So, this is pretty much the scene here this morning - it was a BUSY holiday weekend, with me helping out at our Neighborhood Organizations first Costume contest, and then trick or treating and a party last night (whew!): Here are the kids (good picture for the grandparents) Here's Rex as Duke (Doonesbury) And me - in a cobbled up cat costume! Lots of crafty stuff, but it will have to wait until the house is clean today! :) More laterHappy Day after Halloween everyone!
A very crafty weekend!

Sharkeysday

26 Oct 2009 | 5:57 pm

So, we had a fabulous weekend! Saturday we had some wonderful friends over for dinner and recieved a fabulous gift (which is over on the mid-century blog if you want to drool and be jealous we have such cool friends).Yesterday I had many issues with transfering a new embroidery design I'm going to be working on onto satin (pictures to come) - but in the end, I used a Sharpie and it turned out great - yay! I did a bit more sorting in my studio (Etsy store coming VERY soon!) - and in my "spare" (ha ha) time, I made this: A costume for Missy C's baby doll Krissy (she's an American Girl baby doll…
Craft highlights crazy quilting!

Sharkeysday

25 Oct 2009 | 8:01 am

Yay for "Craft" for highlighting Crazy Quiliting and showing lovely pictures of this quilt: There are some lovely stitch combo ideas there my CQ friends! I'm busy in the studio today - having some challenges transferring a needlework pattern, making a lady bug costume for Missy C's baby doll and doing some quilting - my first time machine quilting, so cross your fingers for me! I think I'm even going to skip laundry to do all this - that's ok, isn't it?
Halloween articles, full of ideas from across the internet!

Sharkeysday

21 Oct 2009 | 3:40 pm

And the picture below is from My Paper Crane - and I thought would be a FUN and simple way to decorate your windows before the big night! Go and enjoy! If you're getting the Halloween bug or feel like you've almost missed it this year, I have written more than a few articles about Halloween, and here are just a few of them:If you're in the last week before Halloween ( oh, wait, we are! Yikes) - you might like Eeeeek! I don't have a costume!With some great (if not eye rollingly silly) costume ideas for the lastminute costume party.Costume Ideas for the Crafty and Not so CraftyIf you have a bit…

Gerdiary
Remembering October

5 Nov 2009 | 4:17 am

Almost finished this one, called Rainy weather (of whichwe had more than enough in the last couple days...) - it´sgoing to be my quilt of the month for October - when I madethis in September, I got the idea of starting acollection of small quilts, each one dedicated to a month..."Fallen leaves lying on the grass in the November sunbring more happiness than the daffodils."(Cyril Connolly)
Picasso reloaded

1 Nov 2009 | 8:30 am

It´s painters´ week, it seems...An advertisement for Picasso prints caughtmy eye with 4 animal drawings, all done injust one line - which looked like good suggestionsfor practicing machine embroidery...He´d been cheating with the eyes on some, though,and so did I with my own designs...
Silent saturday...

31 Oct 2009 | 4:26 am
Strange growth

29 Oct 2009 | 5:42 am

Have I been visited by the ghost of Georgia O´Keefe...?Can´t remember anything - but here it is, a strangeand rather ambiguous object (about 26 x 24 cm)...And a second one already in the making. The pleasantrosé shade I dyed with some leaves (copper-beech perhaps)I´d picked up on a walk.
KunstSTOFF

27 Oct 2009 | 4:45 am

Went to see an exhibition of quilts (quite arare thing around here...!) in thelocal Kommunale Galerie, a municipal gallery Shown are works by quilters from Sutton, England,Gagny, France, and from the Berlin area - they´rethe results of a challenge, each one 1 m x 1 m andincluding these four fabrics:All rather on the conventional side, but good to see,nevertheless...(KunstSTOFF, till Nov. 8)

Try Handmade
Let’s Get Some Shoes

Jamie Drumwright

6 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

Reality? Ummmm No, Runway, and is it for a hoof or a foot? Hmmmm. Handmade Nirvana. The Holy Grail of Handmade. Shoes. Well the ones above are most certainly handmade but not the kind you would want to wear. I went in search of practical and stylish handmade shoes. It really is an art to make shoes, you can’t just sit down and teach yourself in an afternoon to make them like you can knitting or crocheting. There are so many considerations, style, durability, and then the tools you would need to make them. It’s a little mind boggling. Although hard to find there are handmade…
Interview with Beth Cummings, Diffraction Fiber

Leah Peterson

6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

Beth Cummings of Diffraction Fiber has lived in Chicago for the last four years and loves it. “It has a neighborhood feel where I live but still within a short distance from amazing food and culture and everything you could possibly need to be inspired.” she says. Beth lives with her husband, Regan, and a little doggy named Ditto that they just recently got from a shelter. Beth describes herself as a typical Pisces – a lover and an artist who loves cooking. She loves dinner parties, sunshine on a crisp day, snuggling her puppy and her husband. Beth also loves reading and…
On Turkey, Turkey

Diana Prichard

5 Nov 2009 | 8:26 am

He is the belle of the ball; the guest of honor. The main course of today’s American Thanksgiving feast however, is far from anything early Americans would have readily eaten. As consumption rises so must production; with production so must efficiency. Unfortunately efficient is not always humane; efficient is not always pretty. I often focus on the inherent good in supporting local growers here, in so doing what is left unsaid however, is the inherent evil in not. The health of the local economy, the strengthening of communities, the forging of bonds; these things should be enough.
A Sweet Surprise

Rebecca Hadfield

5 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

There’s no denying it – America has a sweet tooth. According to the National Confectioners Association, retail sales of chocolate, candy and gum amount to approximately $28 billion dollars annually. All of that sweetness, however, comes wrapped up in a problem. Because candy-wrappers are usually made up of mixed materials, they are generally not recyclable. The hybrid of paper, plastic and metal that is responsible for keeping your treats fresh and tasty also prevents them from being conventionally recycled. As a result, millions of candy-wrappers end up in our landfills and eco-systems…
Snip, Snip – Cut paper art

Susannah Rodgers

3 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

I am constantly intrigued by what cut paper artists can accomplish with scissors, papers, and glue. Each artist below has embraced a unique style on this art form which is sure to captivate your interest. artwork by Roadside Projects Jayme McGowan from Roadside Projects is setting a new standard for cut paper art. Her pieces are intricately concocted and expertly executed. Her subject matter spans generational interest and can be displayed in any room of your house. Prints and originals are available in her shop and don’t forget to visit her project blog. artwork by Rural Pearl I found…

Hammermarks
Foo Fighters, Neil Diamond, and How to Keep Your Inspiration Flowing

hammermarks

6 Nov 2009 | 8:56 am

The other night I was driving home from my other, non-jewelry job and I stumbled upon Jack Black interviewing the Foo Fighters. I only listened to 15min worth (I had to walk the dog when I got home) and even though 1/2 that time was spent listening to “Wheels” and “My Hero” (two songs I like) the part I did hear really struck home. Jack Black asked the Foos if the well ever runs dry. Did they ever pick up a guitar and it just wasn’t there, no songs would come out? They answered “no.” Dave Grohl said that if they took guitars into the studio…
AEDM – Going OK So Far

hammermarks

4 Nov 2009 | 8:17 am

AEDM - first four days' worth of doodles Here’s my first real AEDM post. I’ve been doodling everyday so far, and I’ve mostly remembered to bring my camera with me when I go out. I did get a cool photo of a smokestack near me that I wouldn’t have since it was on my way to work. Cool Clouds Yesterday Mostly I’ve noticed that I’m just outside taking more pictures in general. Yesterday I was taking photos of clouds that came out pretty cool with the sun behind them. I’m getting ready for Art on the Farm this week, so I haven’t been doing…
November Artist of the Month – Koldo Barroso

hammermarks

1 Nov 2009 | 8:20 am

The Song of the Sea Goat ©2009 Koldo Barrosso It’s November and it’s a little creepy out and dreary, so I decided to choose an artist whose work is a little creepy in a whimsical kind of way. It was on Essential Prose where I first saw his work, she was talking about his album cover designs. Koldo Barroso is an illustrator whose work reminds me of Edward Gorey or Pan’s Labyrinth. The line detail is exquisite and the fun he has with the pieces is evident and always makes me smile. He’s designed pieces based on poems, music, and also illustrated children’s…
Art Every Day Month 2009

hammermarks

31 Oct 2009 | 8:02 am

My Day of the Dead card from last year's AEDM You may remember that last year during November I participated in Leah Piken Kolidas‘ Art Every Day Month project. It was so much fun (and challenging) that I’m doing it again this year! Once again, I’m focusing on non-metal creative endeavors, but instead of doing one big project (like last year’s Inspiration Cards), I’m doing daily projects. I’ve decided to do two daily thins to boost my creativity. First, I’m going to take my camera everywhere. Yes, everywhere. I can’t tell you how…
The Batman Guide to a Metalsmithing Career

hammermarks

28 Oct 2009 | 8:59 am

Australian Bat courtesy of dooderose Start Out Rich – Bruce Wayne was born into money. He’s not just a little bit rich, he’s the richest guy in Gotham. Most of us aren’t as rich as Bruce, but it helps to start off with some capital. This might mean you have a trust fund, a savings or investment account, you apply for loans, or simply work another job while starting your metalsmithing career. Have Friends in High Places – Bruce was also well connected. Sure, no one really knew that he was Batman, but rubbing shoulders as Bruce Wayne gave him insight into…

Fidgety Fingers
ANTI THEFT SANDWICH BAG

1 Nov 2009 | 6:02 am

Anti-theft sandwich bags with mould printed on it. Ha! Love it.
SOME PEOPLE SAY LEFTOVER CUT ONIONS ARE NOT HARMFUL, WHICH IS IT?

31 Oct 2009 | 3:50 am

Chemist Kitchen says this: Reason 1: Nothing is a bacteria magnet. Firstly, bacteria have minimal mobility. They usually travel in water droplets, if at all. Sneezes, for example. Moulds can release spores which get blown around but bacteria usually grows in moist environments and are slimy, making getting airborne difficult. Secondly, if there was such a thing as a 'bacteria magnet' it would
DON'T USE LEFTOVER ONIONS

30 Oct 2009 | 6:49 am

We have used an onion which has been left in the fridge, and sometimes we don’t use a whole one at one time, so save the other half for later. We should really buy smaller onions in the future.Onions are a huge magnet for bacteria, especially uncooked onions. You should never plan to keep a portion of a sliced onion. It’s not even safe if you put it in a zip-lock bag and put it in your
DON'T USE EXTRA OLIVE OIL FOR COOKING

24 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

This is a bad habit for some of us because it boils down to convenience. Extra virgin can actually be worse to cook with as opposed to the "lower grades" of olive oil. Extra virgin has a lower smoke point and cooking with it can result in greasier tasting dishes. Use regular olive oil if you intend to fry things with it. Only use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and dipping breads.
MAKE YOUR OWN YARN

24 Oct 2009 | 3:05 am

We are into crocheting and yarn is sometimes expensive to buy. Here are some alternative to wool which we can possibly make ourselves. The tee shirt yarn, paper yarn and plastic bag yarn.

Bunny Tales
It’s Tisket A Tasket Day!

Anne Sutton

5 Nov 2009 | 12:01 am

Were you expecting a turkey in the basket? Well here’s the problem…I can’t appliqué a cute turkey. At least not inside a basket. Just can’t do it. You’d be asking each other “what happened at Bunny Hill?”. So, because of my turkey problem, you get a squirrel in your basket! She’s a staple here at Bunny Hill. I’ve used her in several other patterns, and there’s no doubt you’ll be seeing her again. She’s got a bushy tail and she’s plump. Pleasingly plump! And the best thing is, she’s EASY to appliqué! If you read my newsletter this morning, you already know about…
Diversions

Anne Sutton

3 Nov 2009 | 11:10 am

November has arrived can you believe it? I’m a few days late, but I just turned over the calendar to November and let out a gasp. It’s a short month, made even shorter with Thanksgiving. Christmas is barreling at us full force! Are you ready? When I get too busy with projects, I have a tendency to wander off for a bit and create diversions. A really bad habit, and I admit, part of my character. I was thinking about the newsletter I have to write, the projects I should be working on and instead, I picked up the camera and took few shots in the studio. …
Orange toenails

Anne Sutton

31 Oct 2009 | 10:36 am

Roxie is our neighbor’s dog. She’s a love. Even Chelsea thinks so. Chelsea watches from the studio window and not once has Chelsea barked at Roxie. Roxie passes all the “Chelsea” tests. Roxie also has orange toenails… and a “bad dog” hat. Chelsea wanted one too when she saw Roxies’s hat. She gave us the “look” we can’t resist. So Ross went on the hunt to find her a bad dog hat. Well, when he got there, the cupboards were bare, and so the poor dog had… …A spider collar? We’re kidding right? Nope! I promised next…
Gift of Words

Anne Sutton

29 Oct 2009 | 3:25 pm

If, as wee babes, we could each select our own special attributes, I would have chosen the gift of words. The ability to write what we want to say with eloquent, flowing words. Priceless! Now, please don’t get me wrong, I don’t think I’m “horrible” at writing, but I really have to work at it. I write and then re-write everything. And, then sometimes I go back and write it again! If you have a blog you probably know what I mean. It’s not easy. Unless you have the “gift”. As I read the article written by Patience Brewster, in the current…
Studio Stage One

Anne Sutton

27 Oct 2009 | 6:27 am

Often when you change one thing it has a tornado effect. While I was at quilt market my husband, Ross, built IKEA cubby shelves in the studio closet. Building shelves in a closet = chaos. Everything has to come out. Everything! Remember that built in ironing board I had in the closet? It’s now sitting in the center of the studio. Hard to iron when it folds down to the floor. And the cabinets that were calling the closet home? They made their grand entrance into the studio and are now sitting in front of the bookshelves. …

Urban Debris Artlog
Free printables Halloween costumes - vintage kiddies

urbandebris

27 Oct 2009 | 5:07 pm

Please click here to Download Costume kids
Hawaii Vacay Images

urbandebris

24 Oct 2009 | 6:37 pm

See more pictures of Maui here.
Silky, spindly, spidery

urbandebris

22 Oct 2009 | 5:16 pm

A Spiders Web is made from silk. Spiders have seven pairs of silk spinning organs or glands called “spinnerets”. Each spinneret on the spider is different from the other and used for making several kinds of silk: attachment disk silk, a strong dragline or safety line silk, orb web spiral line, glue-like sticky catching silk, swathing silk, tangling cribellate silk and a protective egg sac silk (to keep baby spiders safe).The silk that spiders produce are used for building webs, catching prey, storing food, escaping from danger, making egg sacs, sending and receiving…
AMAZING Halloween projects from cheeky magpie

urbandebris

21 Oct 2009 | 4:14 pm

Halloween tiara from Cheeky Magpie Check out her other spooky projects.
Batty!

urbandebris

19 Oct 2009 | 6:45 pm

Use the batty image below for an invitation, or just for a message to "someone special" on Halloween. Click on the image to see full size. Please do not sell or redistribute this image in any way.

The Best of DIY
Origami Koi

admin

1 Nov 2009 | 7:54 am

Check out Mabona Origami’s stop motion video to learn how to make origami Koi and make your own koi pond. Also, check out Mabona Origami’s website to see more amazing and beautiful origami creations.
My Own Creation: Halloween Wreath

admin

1 Nov 2009 | 7:03 am

I hope everyone had a happy Halloween! I made my own last minute Halloween Wreath after seeing A Forest Frolic’s wreath. Michael’s had run out of most of their Halloween section so I had very little to choose from, luckily I found a little plush vampire and witch to put on my wreath, with spiderweb ribbon and black roses. This project probably only took me 1hr to complete. I can’t wait to put it up again next year!
Spooky Halloween Wreath

admin

22 Oct 2009 | 5:07 pm

I’ve been looking for the perfect Halloween decoration for my door. I wasn’t all that smitten by any of the decorations at the stores, so I decided to search for a diy decoration. A Forest Frolic has the perfect decoration for my door and there is even a tutorial. Check out the Spooky Halloween Wreath tutorial! I love the black leaves and dark purple roses, I especially love the glitter and skulls!
No Sew Plaid Children’s Flutter Cape

admin

21 Oct 2009 | 7:35 pm

I love the words “No Sew”! Not that I don’t like sewing I just don’t have a sewing machine and hand sewing isn’t quick enough. Anyways, this No Sew Flutter Cape is sooo cute! It is for a kid but I’d like to make one big enough for me, it would be a nice fall overcoat. Check out the blog Ruffles and Stuff for the full tutorial.
Pixelated Artwork

admin

26 Sep 2009 | 10:09 am

Apartment Therapy has a great tutorial on how to make a pixelated painting out of paint chips, just like this one of Marylin Monroe. You could also make it a real painting with oils or acrylics. Check out this Abraham Lincoln painting that was the original inspiration of the paint chips artwork. This would make a great addition to my apartment, I’ve got some bare walls.

Trans-craft-inental
Bridal lust: I want this!

kelly

5 Nov 2009 | 8:59 pm

Dear Shayne,I know I shouldn't lust after such a frivolous item, but I cannot help it. I just can't. Remember the awesome kitty print I bought at Maker Faire? (Blogged about here.) I've been following the artist, Brittney Lee, ever since. She makes such sweet stuff!The current object of my adoration and desire? This awesome bride paper sculpture:Isn't she bee-you-ti-ful? Look at the details! The doily and paper cut skirt layers! Swoon!I know I won't be a bride forever, but it's still so close to my heart that I cannot resist drooling over this amazing piece. Imagine it with a red mat instead…
It's a miracle!

Shayne

5 Nov 2009 | 6:27 pm

Dear Kelly,Jenny and I have started going through my craft room! I'm getting rid of tons of stuff, including a billion rubber stamps that I have no need of. Would you like either of these:I have a feeling we'll need to have a giveaway soon for our lovely readers :)Love,Shayne
Fruit roll up

kelly

31 Oct 2009 | 11:32 am

Dear Shayne,As I have mentioned in previous years, I love to wear my skates to work on Halloween (or, this year, the day before).It started one year when I dressed up as Wayne Gretzky and was so fun that I had to do it again (and again!) It has since evolved into my Mini Cooper (
Chandelier Shades

Shayne

29 Oct 2009 | 7:26 pm

Dear Kelly,I actually finished a home decorating project! Well, Jenny did most of it, but I helped. I've had a very plain Ikea chandelier hanging in my dining room:We took five of these:And covered them with black and white gingham and then trimmed them with black rick-rack:I am SO happy with them. Maybe this will motivate me to do some more decorating.Love,Shayne
Freezer Paper Stencils

Shayne

17 Oct 2009 | 8:25 pm

Dear Kelly,I've always been intrigued by freezer paper stencils, but never tried it because I'm not so good with the X-acto knife. And really, I'm lazy and didn't want to spend so much time cutting out a design that I could only use once. Then I realized I could cut designs with my beloved Cricut. I found a pack of 8 1/2" x 11" freezer paper (yes, I'm also too lazy to cut down my own pieces from a roll) and bought some t-shirts and fabric paint. Jenny came over tonight and we gave it a try to make some shirts for Sam and they came out amazingly well. Sam chose the following images from the…

Gabriela Delworth's Blog
Very Pink, very royal…news and giveaway!

Gabriela Delworth

7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

Happy Pink Saturday everyone! Today I am ready to “let the cat out of the bag” and let everyone know that…my “Paper Head Dresses” book is out! This is a great book for all those who want to design their own paper crowns and tiaras right from scratch. Learn how to make your own templates and decorate your pieces using a variety of embellishments…and make some of your own with step-by-step tutorials accompanied by beautiful photography. Designing crowns and tiaras require a sense of fashion, colour combination, balance and originality. I love to use fabulous…
A Sparkly Apron for a Great Cook…

Gabriela Delworth

5 Nov 2009 | 12:48 am

As I promised on an earlier post, I will be sharing with you some of the projects I have been working on for the Holiday season. This is a gift for a dear friend…and I really hope she is not reading my blog today! She is a great cook and because she loves her aprons so much I decided to personalize one for her. While visiting some shops here in the city I spotted this “fern” apron and remember that she has lots of them at home! It was perfect for her! I just added some fabric glitter and paint to it. How fun! Make one with me! MATERIALS: Tulip® Fashion Form™ Tulip® Soft…
Marie De Fête…a Holiday inspired event…

Gabriela Delworth

1 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm

Let’s start this Monday with exciting news! Marie fans get ready for Marie De fête, a Holiday inspired event. I have been longing for a new event and put this one together to celebrate Marie Antoinette’s exquisite taste and style once again. But this time just before the Holiday Season. Why? You will find out as the days pass by… Marie De fête means in French Festive Marie. My talented guests and I are in a very festive mood… Remember Partie Royal back in April? If you love Marie I am sure you were part of it. Prepare yourself for four days of Marie inspired…
Happy Halloween! Witches honor…

Gabriela Delworth

31 Oct 2009 | 1:00 am

Happy Halloween-Shamain and Pink Saturday everyone! Halloween celebrations have become more and more popular throughout the world…But what is the real meaning of Halloween? It is actually an ancient Celtic ceremony to honor our ancestors and the day of the dead. It’s a special time when the veils between the material and spiritual worlds become thinner, a time with a greater potential for magical creation. As you light your candles this year, acknowledge the true meaning of this time…a time to remember those who have passed before us. This is a time to send our love and gratitude to…
Sizzix Scoreboard Dies Blog Hop – Cupcake Holder Box

Gabriela Delworth

28 Oct 2009 | 1:21 am

Eileen Hull he is the creator extraordinaire of the new Scoreboard from Sizzix. She has organized a Blog Hop and has invited a group of talented designers to participate. I am so honored to be one of them. Today we are all featuring the Sizzix ScoreBoards XL Die – Cupcake Holder die from Eilleen’s ScoreBoards collection. I have been working on my gift wraps…and of course I am always trying new ideas to pack presents. I have been dreaming about making gift boxes that incorporate my cupcake cup flowers as a lid. And when I saw Eileen’s Cupcake Holder die cut I…

Knitting Naturally
Nov 6, understandng pattern

6 Nov 2009 | 3:38 pm

Pattern is telling me next row is an increase;(WS) K2 (10). *m1,K1;REP FROM * TO LAST 10 STS, PM, BEG W A P1 RIB TO END. WHAT DOES THE (10) MEAN?
Nov 4, Knitting in the round

4 Nov 2009 | 3:22 am

I have never knitted in the round before and my pattern says to put 38 stitches on one needle and then divide them in half on the two needles and join
Nov 4, Button Loop

4 Nov 2009 | 3:19 am

I do hope you can help..........my garment has a loop for the button and not a button hole!! Can you tell me how I make a loop. The pattern does
Nov 4, Knitting 2 together in rib

4 Nov 2009 | 3:15 am

On shape top of rib hat when decreasing it says work 2 together what do I do if one stitch is a K & one is a P? I know what to do if both are K's or
Nov 4, Knitting a scarf on circular needles

4 Nov 2009 | 3:10 am

The needles are size 8 U.S. and 29. The pattern calls for casting on 250 stitches and it's done in garter stitch. You use four different colors, 18

ChristyNelson.net
Plaid Simply Screen

christy

6 Nov 2009 | 12:27 pm

Back in August I brought you a post from CHA about the Plaid Simply Screen product. Well, I can now tell you that it is available for purchase! You can find them at Hobby Lobby, Joann, or A.C. Moore. You can check out some of the available designs here. Which ones are your favorites?
Craft Room Garage Sale

christy

5 Nov 2009 | 9:38 am

This is a picture of my main craft table. It's quite shameful. No wonder I haven't been able to sew in forever! In an effort to make room for all of my fun new tools, I needed to pare down the craft room. I moved all of my yarn to a dresser we picked up off the side of the street and I'm storing that in my daughter's room. That freed up some major space so now I'm just moving things around and trying to get more organized. I've found a lot of great things that I just don't use anymore (or have never used!) that I need to get rid of. I have a ton of books, stamps, die cuts, stickers,…
After School Knitting Club

christy

3 Nov 2009 | 6:16 am

For the past several Monday afternoons, I've been hanging out at an elementary school teaching some great kids how to knit! It was slow starting but by the last week, most of them had made some real progress! The class was open to Kindergarten-5th Graders. If I teach the class again, I'd suggest it be open only for 3rd-5th. I'd also limit the class size to 6-8. The first couple of weeks were tough and I wished I had a helper! But the last three class sessions were great! Some of the kids had picked it up well enough to help the others and it was a fun time to be able to get to know…
The Smartest Irons Ever

christy

2 Nov 2009 | 11:48 am

While at the sewing expo, I went by two vendor booths that were promoting irons. They were the smartest irons I've ever seen. They were also some of the most expensive. But, the features were top notch and when you're ironing a lot (sewing, quilting, etc...), it is worth having a great iron. Here are a few videos I took at their booths. The first one is for the Oliso Pro Iron. I love the cool lifters and the automatic sensors. The other iron is called the Euro Steam. They sell primarily at trade shows and expos like the one in Kansas City so they aren't as easy to find online.
October Craft Challenge Winner!

christy

31 Oct 2009 | 6:22 am

We have a winner! Jill! It turned out great! You win a Breast Cancer Awareness Stuff Bucket from Neatnix! Send me your address (you can use the contact button on the left) and I'll pass your info along to our sponsor. You also win next month's challenge for free. You can go to the button page and grab the Craft Challenge Winner button for your site! Speaking of buttons...have you seen all the newly designed buttons? Grab one for yourself! The consolation prize goes to: Liz! She wins a free month of the challenge. Next month's challenge is sponsored by Comfy Creations. When I…

Paper Shop Ink
Paper Creatures

4 Nov 2009 | 6:01 pm

Aren't these adorable? You can purchase the template for these little guys on etsy. With your purchase you receive a pdf file to print and full instructions are included. It's getting pretty cold here in Ohio. This might be a good project for a night in when the snow starts falling.
Halloween Stationery

12 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

Halloween is probably my least favorite holiday. I'm not sure why but I just don't get excited about candy and costumes. It is a fun time to look at stationery though. Here are a few of my favorite designs I found on etsy.Boo invitation from the etsy shop of Letterpress Light.Halloween coasters from Vermilion Star Press.Printable Notecards and Gift Tags from Ali Design.
Where I've been ...

29 Sep 2009 | 6:53 pm

In Greece! Back to regular posting soon.
Win 9SpotMonk ecoModern Letterpress Invitations

10 Sep 2009 | 5:30 pm

Clayton Invitation from the 9SpotMonk ecoModern® Custom Wedding CollectionWe're excited to announce the launch of our newest custom wedding album - 100% letterpress and 100% eco friendly!Enter for a chance to win 100 custom letterpress invitations through Oh So Beautiful Paper. Once you enter your favorite design at OSBP, comment on this post at Paper Shop Ink and I'll include complimentary return address printing for the winner.Good luck!- Vivian[photo credit: 9SpotMonk]
Amy Butler Rugs

10 Sep 2009 | 5:49 am

Have you seen these gorgeous new rugs from Amy Butler. They are incredibly beautiful in these photos. I can't imagine how they must look in person.There are 19 rugs in the new collection and each one is handmade. The design is hand-carved into each rug. I'd love to see this process. That is some serious talent, and patience I would imagine!All rugs are based on previous Amy Butler patterns. They are available in two sizes, 5' x 7' 6" and 7' 9" x 10' 6". You can purchase on Amy Butler's websiteThese two are my favorite but I wouldn't mind owning any of them. Which one do you like best?

luvinthemommyhood
handmade holidays is here!

luvinthemommyhood

6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

ohhhhh, how i love this time of year! sew mama sew has their yummy handmade holidays going for the whole month of november. each day they show a different category of scrumptious holiday gift ideas! the best part is they aren't just suitable for xmas. i refer to their gift guides all year for project ideas, inspiration and just to plain drool.this year i was friggin over the moon to receive an email asking me to be part of it - needless to say i said yes!!! you'll be able to check out our very own tute from our newbie sewing series for making yoga capris from shirt sleeves on saturday,…
etsy monday in the mommyhood

luvinthemommyhood

2 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

"feeling fat last nine months but the joy of becoming a mom lasts forever." ~ nikki dalton1. autumn muse by lemuse2. ladylike wool wrap coat by aftonriver3. dalby jean jumper by makool4. batwing shirt by duende5. bubble sundress or tunic by anuchkaoh the joys of maternity shopping. if you are like me this can be a pleasant and horrible experience at the same time. finding things to fit my tummy, butt and giant boobs can be trying to say the least.so with baby #2 on the way i decided that this time instead of hitting the mainstream stores i would take a peek around etsy to see what i could…
moments in the mommyhood - pumpkins, pumpkins & more pumpkins

luvinthemommyhood

29 Oct 2009 | 5:00 am

we hit up one of our fave local farms for some low down and dirty pumpkin picking on the weekend. we got covered in mud, wheelbarrowed ourselves silly, picked out a momma, poppa and baby pumpkin and took lots and lots of pictures.i wanted to make some roasted pumpkin seeds but have yet to find a recipe i really enjoy. anyone have any great tips/recipes for using pumpkin seeds? i would love to hear about it! we also did some spooky carving as well, but our lazy butts haven't taken a picture of them yet....hopefully we'll stop eating candy long enough to get a shot of those - we think they…
yep, i'm still alive....

luvinthemommyhood

23 Oct 2009 | 5:00 am

yep, i'm still alive and have managed to drag my head from the toilet bowl to listen/love/obsess over these new albums...................the avett brothers"I and Love and You"pete yorn & scarlett johansson"Break Up"michael buble (and yep, he's canadian!!!)"crazy love"dan mangan (and yet another canadian)"nice nice very nice"and to read all your wonderful, encouraging and just plain lovely emails! thank you so much for all of your kind words, tips, stories and thoughts, it has truly made these last 2 horrible months that much easier to bear, and man, have they been bad. let's just say i…
moms in the mommyhood - vanessa christenson

luvinthemommyhood

30 Sep 2009 | 4:00 am

we have a new "moms in the mommyhood"!say hello to vanessa from the blog "v & co." and the etsy shop"v& co." & "uptown jane". i'm super excited to share this interview with you and i'm not embarrassed to admit i did the "happy dance" when vanessa agreed to do the interview. i feel funny introducing her because i am sure many of you already know who she is, but if you don't, she is one super talented, funny, creative, smart, multi-tasking momma blogger that i have seriously envy for. it's an understatement to say i am a fan of hers and i hope you all will be as well.i had so much…

About.com: Beadwork
My Muse

6 Nov 2009 | 8:05 am

In addition to the many, many other things that I have going on this week, I am finishing up my entry for Scarlet Lanson's Use the Muse III competition. Here is a sneak peek: That's all I can show you right now! The space in the center between the two flowers is where the Muse component will be placed. If you like the flowers, you can try your hand at making your own Russian style netted flowers. I'm very happy with the warm colors I chose to use in this project. All of the beads came from my shopping spree at the Beyond Beadery booth at Bead Fest Philadelphia this past August. (Can you even…
New Competition Open from the Land of Odds

4 Nov 2009 | 7:27 am

A new beadwork competition has been announced at the Land of Odds, the creative folks that bring us the annual Ugly Necklace Contest. The Illustrative Beader: Beaded Tapestry Competition is now looking for entries. This will be a bi-annual competition and the final deadline for acceptance of entries is August 31, 2011. The theme for this year's Beaded Tapestry competition is mystery book covers. Beaders and artists should create a beaded mystery book cover using fabrics, fibers, and of course, beads. The piece must be made of at least 70% beads, and will be judged on insight, technique, use…
Beading Blog Love for Friday October 30 2009

30 Oct 2009 | 10:30 am

Some great new updates to my favorite beading blogs this week: BeadedBear's Nonsense and Complete Waste of Time - Sig Wynn-Evans Beadazzled of Oregon - Dini Alves Beady Eyed Women - Jeanette Cook Ramblings on Jewelry Making and Life - Jean Campbell Contemporary Beadwork by Kerrie Slade - Kerrie Slade MAD Designs - Marcia DeCoster Tapestry Beads - Jill Wiseman Artisan Clay - Kristie Roeder Happy Halloween and Happy Beading!Beading Blog Love for Friday October 30 2009 originally appeared on About.com Beadwork on Friday, October 30th, 2009 at 17:30:12.Permalink | Comment | Email this
Progress

29 Oct 2009 | 2:44 pm

Progress is being made on the freeform peyote necklace! I really love the colors in this one. The creams with the browns and other Earth tones are really the colors that have spoken to me since I started beading more than ten years ago. I always find myself drawn to these colors when designing and shopping for beads. The piece looks a bit lopsided right now, but it's only because I was so anxious to attach the beadwork that I had done for the left side of the piece. I needed to get an idea for where the beadwork was going so I could judge how much more I needed to do on the right side. I've…
New Beading Kits and a Great Sale

26 Oct 2009 | 2:59 am

Some of you may share my obsession with beading kits. I can't explain why I love them so much, but I think some of it may be the idea of sitting down with a given set of materials and working my own brand of magic to transform them into a stunning piece of beaded jewelry. I am actually in the home stretch of finishing a set of kits by Rachel Nelson-Smith from her new book, "Seed Bead Fusion", and they are keeping me up at night way past my usual bedtime. So this week, I was thrilled to discover that School of Beadwork, the collaborative effort of Carol Wilcox Wells and Melanie Potter, is…

jcaroline's blog
Fabric Sightings

j. caroline

6 Nov 2009 | 8:25 am

Jessica Jones brought some star sightings of Amusement Park to my attention. Yes, Nordstroms has it in the form of a laminated diaper bag. Cool, eh? They are made by a company called Reese Li Baby who uses Jessica's canvas and other cool prints in a laminated form. I had to get one and I love it! And our friends at Land of Nod have it on a child's chair. It's a "limited edition" which must mean it's extra special!Fun!
Henry's Halloween Costume- FAILURE

j. caroline

3 Nov 2009 | 7:03 am

Okay, so I didn't get Henry's costume until Saturday, which is Halloween day, if you didn't remember. So I ran to Target and they were limited on 3-6 mo. sizes, so I got this. The picture on the package looks pretty cute, doesn't it? So, at about 5:30, I put Henry in above pea pod costume, but it is about 10 inches too short. Never fear. I have these: So, I cut leg holes. So, Henry's was not dressed as much as a pea pod as…
Inspirations Added to Jcaroline Home

j. caroline

2 Nov 2009 | 10:59 am

I don't know if this is what I should have been working on Friday, but I spent all day on these pages and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I love picking out paint colors! And I can't guarantee I'm good at it, but it at least gives you a starting point!My fantasy would be to pick out paint colors every month, paint one wall and make someone else finish and clean up and then the next month we would start again. I wonder if the walls would actually get thicker if you repainted that often? In theory, I think they would, so would you have to scrape them down after…
Happy Halloween!

j. caroline

30 Oct 2009 | 2:49 pm

I've never been much of a Halloween fan, but it does help to have an enthusiastic child at home!She got to wear her costume to Mother's Day Out on Thursday. Henry is there in the background, not terribly impressed by the whole thing. Whoa-- where did that hook come from? It's dangerous to have a resident pirate. Better get Henry an eye patch.Since some of the children only come to Mother's Day Out on Friday, they got to wear their costumes again today. However, Olivia decided to mix it up and be a princess out of her dress-up box. It was chilly this…
Jcaroline Home has covers for the Harry Chair

j. caroline

26 Oct 2009 | 9:21 am

We just added the chair cover for the Ikea Harry Chair to the jcaroline home website. The Harry Chair is a fairly new addition to the Ikea lineup. It has a slimmer profile than their other padded dining chair, the Henriksdal chair, so it fits better in small dining spaces. (And never fear, the Henriksdal cover is in the works!) I especially love it in the new fabric we just added to the site, Turquoise Henna. A nice mix of turquoise, deep green, deep orange on a linen background. Sophisticated without being boring. (You DIYer's-- that…

Creating Keepsakes Blog
Special Guest Blogger: Wendy Sue Anderson (and Free Font Friday!)

creatingkeepsakes

6 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

Hey everyone! I’m Wendy Sue Anderson, a member of CK’s 2010 Dream Team, and I’m so excited to join you today on the Creating Keepsakes blog! Today I challenge you to use a product that may not seem like a fit for your style at first glance. I created a layout using the new Vintage Findings collection from Making Memories. It’s a gorgeous line with loads of fun, unique embellishments and replicas of “found” ephemera-like items. This line automatically jumps out as the perfect product for collage artists and vintage-style scrapbookers. I, however, am neither. Not to worry—I…
Announcing Our 2010 Dream Team Members

creatingkeepsakes

4 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

With our December 2009 issue already out and our January 2010 issue right around the corner (can you believe that?), it’s time to announce our 2010 Dream Team. This talented group of 10 women will bring you fresh designs in every 2010 issue of our magazine, as well as act as stellar magazine representatives at various events and activities. Let’s get to their names and faces (and a few get-to-know-you questions), shall we? Drum roll, please . . . Congratulations to the following 2010 CK Dream Team members: Cindy Tobey 1. How long have you scrapbooked? 12 or 13 years now. 2. What is your…
Weekly Warm-Up: Send a Photo DVD

creatingkeepsakes

2 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

Photo cards are so fun to send during the holidays, but as any scrapbooker will tell you, narrowing down a year’s worth of amazing photos to a single image can be challenging. This is exactly why we included the idea of sending a photo CD or DVD in my “Tips & Tricks” column for our November issue. With that tip, I created an easy-to-make card that will hold a CD or DVD, and some of you have since asked how I put that little card together. Since the holidays are right around the corner, I thought I’d share that information with you here, so you can get to work creating those…
Happy Halloween!

creatingkeepsakes

31 Oct 2009 | 3:00 am

It’s the scariest day of the year! Are you all set to go out and do a little spooking? I have to admit, I’ve never really liked dressing up for Halloween. (The photo at left is one of only three that I could find of myself all dressed up!). But there are other Halloween traditions I like just fine: decorating with spooky spiders, bats and brooms. Carmel apples (I can really get behind those). Carving pumpkins is always fun, too. Isn’t it funny that we carve pumpkins for Halloween? We all just accept that it’s a Halloween tradition as children, but have you ever…
Special Guest Blogger: Tia Bennett

creatingkeepsakes

30 Oct 2009 | 3:00 am

Hello fellow scrapbooking friends! I am Princess Leia (okay, so I’m really Tia Bennett, but I thought I’d play a little trick on you), and it’s a good thing I’m here at the end of this Halloween week of fun because the Creating Keepsakes Blog is really on a hauntingly good roll. And so is my hair. (Can I get a rim-shot?) And, believe it or not, the theme of a fun technique I’d like to share with you today is also all about rolls—rolled paper flowers, to be exact! Here is a simple, fun technique to add some layered, textural goodness to any paper craft, be it a layout, a…

Elizabeth Anne Designs Living
What’s Worth More: Your Time or Your Money?

pj

6 Nov 2009 | 11:00 am

(image source) My husband and I have been living in our house for just over 365 days. Last year, when we moved in, our 1/2 acre of property was already covered in warm-hued leaves; the trees were bare. Because we didn’t have a rake — or very much time — we hired a lawn care company to do a Fall clean-up. They mowed and raked and tidied up our property in just a couple of hours. This year, I watched in dread as the leaves began falling off the trees. J and I decided that we would play the roles of responsible homeowners and not spend the extra money for somebody else to do…
Let’s talk about some flair

mojito maven

6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

Let’s say, hypothetically speaking of course (cough, cough), that you were a complete idiot and lost your engagement ring. Thankfully the insurance gods smiled down at you and accepted your claim. Now you have a pocket full of money and a shit ton of options as to what to do with it. Would you… A. Create an exact replica of your lost ring? Why? B. Create an entirely different ring ? Why? C. Take a combination of choices A and B and create the same setting with a little more flair? Why? D. Upgrade your center stone in either size, clarity, or shape? Why? Thoughts? All images c/o the Art of…
My Nicaraguan Life

rebekah

5 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

Today is one of those days. I’m not particularly motivated to tackle my to do list. Nor am I ready to tackle the 2 hour lesson I need to finish before tomorrow morning. I’ve spent the morning thinking of the friends I have been blessed with, thinking of Hurricane Ida landing on the coast, and capturing the small details of this beautiful day. My sweet Jesse, waiting out the morning with me. A clothesline filled with baby clothing. A self portrait. The blur of Jesse as he tackles a leaf. The leaf survived. Pigs seems to follow me throughout my life. Why is it that Jesse is…
House Hunting in Connecticut

abc dragoo

5 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

Last weekend Mr. D and I ventured off to “the country” in search of a house. It’s our intention to purchase something to live in full time until he finds work in New York City. I thought I’d share a sampling of the houses we toured over Halloween weekend. The landscape is so serene. You’d never imagine that the hustle and bustle of New York City was only 90 minutes away. The house above was complete country cottage perfection. You’d die if you saw how really, truly delightful it was. It had amazing 200 year old beams in the ceiling. There were beautiful…
Seasons

julia

4 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

Is it just me or does it seem like this year is flying by at record speed? How can it be November already? And more importantly, how can it be pitch black by 5:30 pm these days? I’ve always been a Mid-western girl and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. Although you might hear me gripe and complain from approximately November through April (because that is truly how long a bitter Wisconsin winter lasts up here), I would never trade the full four seasons we get for anything. Sure, I’m sure it’s absolutely fabulous to live in a climate that is temperate all year…

WiNKELF
Chain Maille Red Tiger's Eye Wrapped Choker

7 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

This auction is for one incredibly sensuous choker made from stainless steel and the centerpiece of a gorgeous chatoyant wrapped red tiger's eye cabochon for dazzling effect. Perfect for the discriminating woman in your life I've hand linked this piece one ring at a time here on my bench. The necklace length is approximately 15 long adjustable to 15 1/2 and as with all my items can be resized to fit you. Thank you for looking Tadd AKA Hawkwolf
Chain Maille Persian Bracelet in Copper

7 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

Here is a great copper bracelet in the persian weave. I've hand linked this piece one ring at a time here on my bench Copper is said to have helpful tendencies for arthritis and joint pain I've had many friends and customers swear by theirs. This bracelet is approximately 8 long and as with all my items can be resized to fit you. Thank you for looking Tadd AKA Hawkwolf
Chain Maille Blue and Gold Star Handflower slave bracelet

7 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

This auction is for one of my favorite items. A customer asked if I could design a custom handflower for her and graciously allowed me to replicate the design so everyone could enjoy one D This handflower is created in a star pattern made with anodized aluminum in beautiful navy blue and gold. I've hand linked this piece one ring at a time here on my bench The bracelet portion is approximately 8 long and as with all my items can be resized to fit you. Thank you for looking Tadd AKA Hawkwolf
Chain Maille Sterling Silver and Amethyst Triple Strand Necklace

7 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

This auction is for one incredibly sensuous necklace made from three strands of sterling silver rings and interspersed with deep amethyst beads to create a stunning draped effect on your neck I've hand linked this piece one ring at a time here on my bench. The necklace length is approximately 16 long adjustable to 16 1/2 and as with all my items can be resized to fit you. Thank you for looking Tadd AKA Hawkwolf
ACEO Oil Original

6 Nov 2009 | 10:50 pm

This is an original oil painted aceo of a green orchid on canvas

FaveCrafts
Nature's Thanksgiving Decoration or Placecard Holder

6 Nov 2009 | 11:22 am

This cute turkey craft is easy to make using household items and great autumn treasures from the outdoors. Get the kids involved with this easy Thanksgiving craft.
Holiday Pine Cone Candle Holder

6 Nov 2009 | 10:14 am

A fun craft to do using the treasures collected from a nature walk with your kids. This easy Christimas craft will look great on your dining room table as a Christmas centerpiece or mantelpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions at FaveCrafts

6 Nov 2009 | 9:35 am

Find the answers to frequently asked questions such as how to subscribe to the newsletter and how to download our free eBooks. Find information on FaveCrafts giveaways and how to submit your idea.
Heart Felt Ornaments Tutorial

6 Nov 2009 | 7:56 am

These cute heart shaped ornaments make wonderful gifts or gift wrap accents. Follow this tutorial for easy Christmas crafts or unique Valentine crafts that use recycled wool sweaters.
Painted Nutcracker Goblet

5 Nov 2009 | 2:37 pm

Paint yourself a nutcracker this Christmas season. Wine glasses don't have to be plain and boring, now you can have fun with them and dress them up according to the holiday.

FaveCrafts Blog
Unique Ornaments to Make or Keep for Yourself

Caley

6 Nov 2009 | 4:54 pm

Christmas is quickly approaching and you might be looking for some unique ornaments to make or keep for yourself. With free crafts, you can create a set of coordinating ornaments for your own tree or create the perfect holiday gift for friends and family. In my family, we have a tradition of making and exchanging holiday ornaments each Christmas. Over the years, our Christmas trees acculumate new handmade ornaments from our loved ones. Here are some ideas for unique ornaments to make or keep for yourself: Glass- Pick up plain glass ornaments and embellish with acrylic paints. For one idea,…
Free Shipping on Fabric Dye Products

Caley

6 Nov 2009 | 3:18 pm

We recently published a round-up of blogger projects using Tulip Fabric Dye products, and were blown away by the great things that our blogger friends made. They dyed clothing, tablecloths, and even baskets, many with the help of the projects and techniques in the Free Fabric Dye eBook. We just want to remind our readers that you have just 3 weeks left to use the offer for free shipping at ILovetoCreate.com on any of the fabric dye products. Enter in the code “fave1009” for free shipping at checkout. This offer expires 11/30/09. With the holidays quickly approaching, you can start…
Product Review and Giveaway: Punch Needle Kit Giveaway

Caley

6 Nov 2009 | 8:23 am

Punch needle is the art of punching the back of the design creating loops at the front of the design. You push and pull filling in the design with each color. We are giving away one bird on branch kit, with comes with pre-printed fabric, threads and instructions. We are also including the punch needle tool and the threader tool. You have everything you need to create this design! Read the full review and enter to win the kit here. Contest ends November 20, 2009. You can enter once daily, so return often to improve your chances of winning! This is a post from: FaveCraftsBlog Product Review…
19 Personalized Christmas Ornaments

Christine

6 Nov 2009 | 6:09 am

You have a little over two months to get started on your Christmas wish list. Try to save money this year by not shopping, make your own gifts. There’s nothing more special than getting something made from the heart. Christmas is my favorite time of year. The lights are bright, the air is crisp and the people are cheery. I hear one Christmas song and I’m in la la land. This year I’m going the thrifty route; I’m making personalized Christmas ornaments and this is your perfect guide in doing so. You can knit or crochet an ornament for those yarn lovers, or you can simply…
Help a Reader: Sugar-Free Drink Mix Containers

Caley

6 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

Can you help this reader with a clever craft idea? Brenda writes: I’m looking for something to do with the hundreds of empty sugar free drink mix containers I have. I’m assuming Brenda means the plastic tubs which store dry drink mixes. What can she do? Decorate and turn into holiday gift boxes perhaps? Post your craft idea in the comments. Best answer will win a special craft prize. This is a post from: FaveCraftsBlog Help a Reader: Sugar-Free Drink Mix Containers Related posts:Help a Reader: Silk Flower Angels Can you help this reader create a silk flower angel?...Help a Reader:…

My MiNuTia
A quick hello

Teresa McFayden

5 Nov 2009 | 12:10 pm

and a lil peek at a project that's almost done. I've loved this quote for forever: This was taken with my phone (no time to drag out the camera). Things are ever busy at Silver Bella HQ...which is the best feeling. This time next week we will be kicking off the best and the biggest art weekend in the midwest! Gaaaaaaaaaaa!!!! I can't even believe it's almost here! Locals can still get tickets to Bella Market! Order those here. For a complete list of the vendors, go here.Hoping to pop in again in this next week. I can't wait to show you my Workshop Kits. We'll see.