Design by Night

Paint Chip Bookmarks

2012-01-27T08:00:00.003-05:00

Every time I go to the hardware store I am drawn to all the paint samples and their rainbow of colors. For years I've thought that there is some craft opportunities in those paint chips but haven't done anything about it until now. My last trip to the hardware store I picked up a fistful of swatches in a plethora of colors in the hopes of coming up with something crafty.

Here is my first (and very simple) use of the paint swatches. Since Valentine's day is approaching I decided to make a Valentine's day bookmarks using rubber stamps. These bookmarks could easily become a cute accessory to the normal Valentine's day cards (or with a little extra work even become the card itself!)

On a side note look at them names of swatches...some of them are really cute and could lend themselves to certain occasions. Some of the swatch names that I chose are Love St. Valentine's Day, True Royal Love and Young April Love, all perfect for V-day.

To make these bookmarks you will need:
• paint swatches
• hole punch
• stamps & ink
• ribbon

Stamp artwork on the color blocks. Because the color is actually paint and not ink on paper, the ink tends to smear if you are not careful. You might want to take a few extra paint swatches to get the feel of stamping on the paint. Plus, the ink takes longer to dry so be heedful or it will smudge. After the ink is thoroughly dry, punch a hole in the top center of the swatch sheet and thread some ribbon through the hole...ta da...super easy and cheap bookmark Valentines.

Will you help me with my Valentine?

2012-01-20T08:30:00.004-05:00

Last year I posted a series of Valentine's Day cards that could be downloaded and printed to give to your loved ones. This year I would love to do the same thing but I need some help. Last years cards included pirates, zombies, squirrels and Mr. T....I know, I know, how in the hell can you top Mr. T? Well I have some crafty followers and I think it can be done!

So what I need are some good (and kind of stupid funny) Valentine's day card ideas. Please post a comment with your ideas. If the idea makes me laugh I will turn it into a downloadable card and post them the week of Valentine's day. Please keep in mind that I like raunchy however I would like to not be blatantly pornographic, be crafty I love some good innuendo.

Bob Ross Style

2012-01-18T13:59:00.000-05:00

Last week and I messed up an order that I was making which at the time totally cheesed me off. Like an adult I totally had a tantrum and chucked the feather base onto a shelf, screamed then started over.

After a calming girls weekend away, I entered my craft room last night with a new perspective. "What would Bob Ross do?"

As a child I would love to watch his show on PBS and to this day I think he is part of the reason I even attended art school. Bob Ross never threw a tantrum. No, even though his Jordache Jeans were so tight he probably lost circulation in his manly areas and even though he painted the same landscape for 20 years (just with in different seasons), he would never let a mishap get him down. Hell no, he would have had a "Happy Accident."

So with a new lease on my mishap I busted out the Jordache Jeans, teased my hair into a fro and got to work. I have decided to share my "Happy Accident" below:

Felt Sunflower Tutorial

2012-01-13T09:00:00.014-05:00

If you can't tell by my posts from the past 30 days or so, I am trying to use a stash of felt that I found in my fabric box. At some point I bought quarter yards of a bunch of different felt and never really used it. Well it is the new year and one of the things that I do (and everyone else tends to do too) is try to organize my life—yeah like that is possible. Even though I do it every year and it only last a month or two I still find myself trying to be organized come Jan. 1.

Oh well, I have gone off on a tangent. Back to the tutorial, basically I have been trying to figure out what I can make with this stash of small pieces of felt so you might be getting a few more felt flower projects until I use it all! I hope you enjoy the sunflower.

Supplies
1/4 Yard felt*
Button (preferrably a shank style)
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Needle & Thread (I would use a heavier duty thread since it the flower needs gathering)
Pin back

*I used two different colors and honestly from a quarter of a yard you will probably be able to make several flowers. If the felt is 45" long you can probably even get away with an 1/8th of a yard.

Print out the pattern below and cut out 7 large petals, 7 medium petals, 6 small petals, 1 pin cover and 1 base from the felt. (Use the scale to make sure the print out is the correct size).
Thread you needle, making sure the thread is about 24" long. Double up the thread and knot the end. Starting with a large petal put a gather stitch along the flat side of a petal, halfway through add a second petal on top of the other petal and continue to gather stitch the bottom. You will continue stitching along the bottom, adding new petals until all your large petals are sewn. When you get to the last petal only sew half way across the flower, stopping at the center. Do not tie or gather yet.
Take a medium petal and put it on top of the last large petal, making sure to overlap the petal starting at the half way mark of the larger petal underneath. Gather stitch the bottom sewing the petals together. Continue adding new medium petals to the top of the previously stitched petals. Sew all the medium petals together in a chain. When you get to the last petal only sew half way across the flower, stopping at the center. If the thread is getting short lightly gather the petals to allow for more working room.
Okay, you should have the hang of this by now, repeat step 3 with the small petals. But instead of stopping at the last petal continue to sew to the end.
Pull on the thread to gather the petals. Be careful not to pull to hard! You do not want to break the thread. When all the petals are gathered tie off the end—BUT DO NOT CUT THE THREAD.
Starting with the small petal end (where the needle and thread are), wrap the petals in a circle. Stay stitch the petals in place.
Continue wrapping the petals around till it forms a flower. Stay stitch the flower shape in place. I usually put a set of stitches around the entire center circle.
Hot glue (or sew) the button to the front center of the flower.
Hot glue the base to the back of the flower.
Hot glue the pin to the center of the base circle.
Hot glue the heart over the pin back.

Loopy No Sew Flower Tutorial

2012-01-02T08:00:00.009-05:00

It is a new year, new beginnings, new projects, and new diets! But one thing hasn't changed with the new year, my obsession with making flowers continues. I am pleased with how this one turned out. It is very easy to make and cute with all the loopty loops...enjoy!

Supplies
Felt, 30" long x 4-5" wide
Button (preferrably a shank style about and inch round"
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Measuring tape
Pin back

Cut a piece of felt 2" wide by 30" long. Fold the felt in half widthwise and hot glue the bottom open edge of the felt.
Make small cuts long the folded edge of the felt (roughly an eighth to a quarter of an inch wide). It will look like fringe. Make sure to leave about a quarter of an inch uncut along the unfolded edge.
Put a line of about an inch long of hot glue along the bottom (unfolded) edge of the fringe and start to roll up the felt into a circle around itself. Continue gluing and rolling the fringe until the felt forms a circular shape.
Push back the fringe in the center of the flower to make room for your button. Hot glue the back of the button and place it in the center. Make sure to hold it in place til the glue is cooled.
Download the pattern below and cut one heart and one circle out of the felt.
Glue the circle to the back of the flower.
Glue the pin back to the center of the circle. Next, glue the heart over the pin to cover up the the icky oozy glue that comes threw the holes.

Leather Earring Pattern Update

2011-12-29T15:14:00.007-05:00

In October I posted a tutorial to make leather earrings. Well for Christmas I revisited this craft and made a few other designs for a few people at my work. This is one of my favorite tutorials because they are so easy to make and the earrings are light and easy to wear. I liked the new designs so much I thought I would share the pattern for them.

To view the full set of instructions on how to make these leather earrings, click here. To make one of the two pairs shown, download and print the updated pattern below (the bottom row are the new designs):

No Sew Felt Flower Pin

2011-12-23T14:19:00.000-05:00

Need a last minute gift? Make this no sew felt flower brooch.

Supplies
1/8" yard of felt for flower
Pin backer
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Printer

Print out the pattern below and cut out 14 petals, 1 pin cover and 1 base from the felt. (Use the scale to make sure the print out is the correct size).
Take a dab of hot glue and place it at the bottom middle of the petal and fold down the right hand side. Place a second dab of glue in a similar area and fold the left side so it forms the shape below. Note the concave edge of the petal is the bottom. Repeat step with the remainder of the petals.
Take four of the petals and glue them on the outside edge of the circle backer in a north, east, west, south manner (like the points of a compass).
Take four more petals and glue them between the "compass" petals.
Take the remaining five petals and glue them closer to the center of the backer, arranging them in a circle.
Cut a strip of felt 12" long by 1" wide. Fold in half and place a few dabs of glue along the open long end of the strip to keep fold in place. Using scissors carefully snip "fringe" along the folded edge.
Roll the fringe strip into a circle, using hot glue to tack it in place.
Glue the fringe circle in the center of the petals.
Turn over the flower and hot glue the pin to the center. Use the heart to cover up the pin back.

Recycled Package Topper

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ever get tired of the same ole bows on top of those presents? Well change it up a bit with this recycled package topper. This topper can be made from the card board rolls that you have left over after you have finished your wrapping paper and they are super simple to make.

Supplies
1-card board roll (or paper towel roll)
White glue
Ribbon (long enough to fit around your package)
Scissors (I used both plain and fancy edged)
X-acto knife
Scraps of colored or scrap book paper
Compass
Ruler

Take the card board roll and flatten it. Measure out eight 1.75" wide sections and cut them.
Put white glue on about a half inch of the bottom of one of the card board pieces then glue it to another of the card board pieces.
Continue glueing the card board sections together to form a circular star.
Cut a circle out of your scrap paper that is 2.5" round. (NOTE: I used scissors that had a fancy edge but regular scissors would work fine. I also cut a second 2" circle from another color and printed out a third circle with some holiday artwork but this is not necessary. Play around with different colors, patterns and textures of paper to get a look that appeals to you). Measure the area in the center of the star where the circle will cover and place glue on the edges and glue the paper to the center of the star.
Cut a 2" circle and cut 2 slits the width of your ribbon on each side. Thread the ribbon through the circle.
Measure the area in the center back of the star where the circle will cover and place glue on the edges and glue the backer with the ribbon to the back of the star.

Here is the finished product:

If you like the art I used for the center of my star, here it is an a few more, Happy Holidays!

Last show of the year!

2011-12-14T08:30:00.000-05:00

I have decided to do one last show of the season--no I'm not crazy, I am high on the holiday spirit (and lots of sugar from all the cookies)! Visit me this Saturday in the Towson Commons Rotunda. Come and purchase handmade holiday presents from me (Design by Night), BEST members and the Towson ARTS Collective!

Where: Towson Commons Rotunda, York Road and Pennsylvania Ave.
When: Saturday, December 17
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rufus the unknown Reindeer

2011-12-12T17:09:00.003-05:00

I don't often post personal stuff on my blog since it is a craft blog, however I can't help myself with this one. I love my pound puppies and for the most part they live a very pampered plush life but every once in awhile I feel the need too torture the dogs by making them wear hats, pjs, etc. So here is a picture of my pound puppy Rufus sporting reindeer antlers and a nice fleece scarf...needless to say he was not amused! However, I got lots of joy from this and the picture with him giving me the "drop dead" look cracks me up. Here is a little of holiday cheer from me to you!

Wrapping Paper Necklace

2011-12-12T08:30:00.000-05:00

Supplies:
Wrapping Paper
White Glue
Scissors or X-acto Knife
Ruler
Chain
4-Jump Rings
2-eye head pins
1-Lobster Clasp
Jewelry Pliers
Hot Glue
Felt (that compliments wrapping paper)
Piece of paper
Pencil

Cut several pieces of wrapping paper 2” wide. Vary the size from 10” to 36”.
Take one of the pieces and fold it in half. Fold this half in half two more times making about a half inch high strip.
Starting at an end, start to roll the paper on itself to create a tight coil. The coil will be larger or smaller depending on the length of the paper.
When you get to the end, use the white glue to finish the coil. Hold in place until it is dry.
After you have several coils you like, on a piece of paper arrange the coils into a design. When you get a design you like trace around the outside of it to create a backer template.

Cut out the template and use it to cut out a piece of felt to use as a backer. Take your shapes and arrange them on the felt. Trim felt where necessary to avoid overhang.
Using the hot glue gun, glue the eye pins on opposite sides of the shape. This is how you will attach the chain to your paper pendant.
Hot glue the shapes to the felt backer.
Figure out how long you want your necklace and cut 2 pieces of equal chain.
Add a jump ring to one end of the chain and attach it to one of the eye head pins on the pendant. Repeat step with other side.
Attach jump rings to both open ends of chain, making sure to add the lobster clasp to one of them.

Design by Night in Balto. Magazine this month!

2011-12-09T10:13:00.006-05:00

So if you follow my blog you know that I love to do tutorials! Well the nice people at Baltimore Magazine asked me to come up with a tutorial that would use recycled holiday gift wrap. Well I put on my thinking cap and came up with a quilled paper necklace.

And don't worry, if you are not have access to Baltimore Magazine but you want to make the necklace come back Monday and I will post the tutorial!

Merry Mart this weekend!

2011-12-01T08:00:00.003-05:00

Made in Charm City gifts! No manic mall madness necessary! Come visit me and a host of other great crafters this weekend at the Creative Alliance's Merry Mart. The show will feature clothing, handbags, felt accessories, ceramics, soaps, kids’ toys, mixed media, amazing jewelry, and great art! Indie crafters from the Charm City Craft Mafia, the Baltimore Etsy Street Team (BEST), Highlandtown, CA staff, artists and more from across Bmore!

For more information visit Merry Mart's Facebook page by clicking here.

Date: Sunday, December 4th
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Where: Creative Alliance at The Patterson
3134 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore Maryland 21224

Greenbelt Festival of Lights Art & Craft Fair this weekend!

2011-11-30T08:46:00.003-05:00

Come visit me at the Greenbelt Festival of Lights Art & Craft Fair this weekend. Fabulous and funky! Featuring juried professional artists and crafters selling their own, handmade wares. To view a complete vendor list click here.

Where: 15 Crescent Road
Greenbelt, MD 20770 (click here to see a map)

When:
Saturday, December 3, 10am-5pm
1-3pm: free paper tile workshop
3-5pm: live music with Harp 46 (world jazz)

Sunday, December 4, 11am-4pm
1-3pm: free workshop: make an evergreen wreath
2-4pm: live music with the Alexandria Kleztet

Hope to see you their!

Trunk Show!

2011-11-28T10:16:00.006-05:00

Come visit me this Friday at Kiss'n Make-Up's first Friday Trunk Show in Hampden. Deb and the gals will be putting out...a great spread! Plus they will be stripping down prices on great stocking stuffers!

December 2nd
6-9 p.m.
Kiss’n Make-up
827 W. 36th Street
Balto., MD 21211

No Sew Felt Flower Headband

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

I week or two ago I posted a tutorial for a no sew flower. By taking the same principle of that flower and changing how you cut it slightly it can produce an entirely different type of flower. So I thought I would share with everyone.

Supplies
5" square piece of felt for flower
3" square piece of green felt for leaves and backer
Headband
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Printer

Print out the pattern below. (Use the scale to make sure the print out is the correct size).
Using the large scalloped pattern, cut the shape out of your felt for the flower. Note: You can use the pattern more as a guide. You do not have to be precise when cutting the pattern, if you look at the picture below you will notice that I rounded out the "corners".
Cut a scalloped spiral (see fig. 3) in the circle trying to keep the thickness of the piece somewhat uniform. Keep in mind the circle doesn't have to be perfect.
Wrap the center upon itself to create a roll and dab a little hot glue on it to keep it in place. Continue to wrap the felt around the center.
Cut out the small circle and 2-leaf patterns using the green felt.
Glue the leaves onto the small circle backer.
Glue the backer with the leaves onto the back side of the headband.
Glue the flower on top of the backer making sure that the headband is sandwiched in between.

Handmade Arcade!

2011-11-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Visit me and Jill Popowich Designs at Handmade Arcade this weekend. Handmade Arcade is Pittsburgh’s largest indie craft fair, now in its seventh year. The annual Handmade Arcade was created to give grassroots, independent crafters an opportunity to show and sell their wares, and to provide an alternative to traditional craft and art fairs.

SATURDAY, NOV. 12, 2011
11 AM - 7 PM
Early Bird Entrance 10 AM
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
Pittsburgh, PA

Handmade Arcade returns to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown with Handmade Arcade for the Holidays. Shoppers can expect even more great handcrafted, indie merchandise, plus:

Free admission
Over 150 vendors, local and from out-of-state
Easy to get to: close to many bus lines and the T; on-site garage parking; also accessible by foot, bike or even watercraft
More space than ever: wide aisles, extra vendor room
Early Birdie passes
Refreshments on-site
Hands-on Handmade activities

The Key to Fashion Accessories

2011-11-03T08:30:00.002-04:00

I recently received my Fossil catalog in the mail. Even if I can't afford their clothing and handbags I love to browse through their catalog and try to put together the look for less. Well imagine my surprise when I noticed a lot of key accessories. They have attached them to bags, bracelets and necklaces. Well it just happens that recently I posted a key necklace tutorial.

The one necklace that I saw cost $75, I made my necklace for less than $10. So I thought I would share their necklace and revisit mine with everyone. Plus, this has inspired me to take another stab at making some more key accessories.

Fossil's Necklace:

My Necklace:

No Sew Felt Flower Bobby Pin Tutorial

2011-11-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

I always have flowers on the brain, how to make them, what to do with them, how to make them into hair accessories... I am always on the look out for new inspirations, so when I saw someone make a paper flower using a similar technique I figured I would try it with felt. I think it totally looks cute and not a needle or thread in site!

Supplies
4" square piece of felt for flower
3" square piece of green felt for leaves and backer
1-Bobby pin with glue pad (the sell tons on ESTY)
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Printer

Print out the pattern below. (Use the scale to make sure the print out is the correct size).
Using the large circle pattern, cut a circle out of your 4" felt for the flower.
Cut a spiral in the circle trying to keep the thickness of the piece around .25" to .375" wide. Keep in mind the circle doesn't have to be perfect.
Wrap the center upon itself to create a roll and dab a little hot glue on it to keep it in place. Continue to wrap the felt around the center.
Cut out the smaller circle and 2-leaf patterns using the green felt.
Glue the leaves onto the small circle backer.
Glue the backer with the leaves facing the back of the flower. Glue on the bobby pin.

Come see me tomorrow!

2011-10-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

Come visit me and my tent mate Jill Popowich Designs at the DC Craft Mafia's Monster Mash tomorrow!

When: Saturday, October 29, 2011
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Where: St. Lukes Episcopal Church-Parking Lot, P Street and 15th NW, Washington, DC

For more information and to see a listing of some of my wonderfully crafty neighbors at the show visit the craftmafiadc.com.

Key Necklace Tutorial

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

Years ago I bought a cigar box of old keys. For some reason I was really drawn to them but had no idea or any real purpose for them. So for years I have been shuffling around this box of keys in my studio, each time thinking that I should really make something with them.

Recently, I was inspired to make a "key chain" pendant. I dumped all the keys in the box and played around with them thinking that a trio of keys would make a nice shape. Plus, each key I picked had a nice old/rusted patina too. Now I had the idea, but how do I attach them? I tried several glues and some wire but got no where. After a few margarita's with my girlfriend and jewelry designer Jill Popowich I had my very simple answer, jump ring them together! How could I have overlooked the most obvious technique? Thank goodness I have crafty friends because I would still be trying to glue those damn keys.

Anyway, if you are like me and have a collection of old keys hanging around this would be a great steam punk inspired craft for a rainy day.

Supplies:
3 - repurposed keys, make sure to use the ones with three openings at the top
4 - 6 to 8mm jump rings (may need larger or smaller depending on chain
3 - large jump rings (you will have to determine the size depending on your keys)*
Jewelry pliers
Flush wire cutters
15" to 20" of chain (this can be longer or shorter according to taste)
1 - lobster clasp
2 - beads
2 - eye head pins or 18 gauge wire

*If you can not find jump rings large enough for your keys you can make them! For instructions on how to make jump rings visit beadingdaily.com.

Take two of the keys and attach a large ring through the end hoops.
Repeat step 1 with the other key to create a chain.
Please note: I did not have eye head pins for this next step so I used wire. However, it would be easier to use eye pins.

Make an "eye" loop on the end of the wire then slip on a bead. Trim wire accordingly and "eye loop" the other end. Repeat this step with the second bead and more wire.
Measure two 7.5" to 8" lengths of chain. If you want your necklace longer or shorter cut the chain accordingly, just make sure that the two pieces are equal in length. Using the smaller jump rings, attach the lobster clasp to one and a ring to the other.
Using jump rings, attach the bead to the key, then attach the other end to the chain. Repeat with other side. Your necklace is ready to go!

Excuse Moi!

2011-10-21T08:31:00.003-04:00

Recently I got a subscription to a fashion magazine called Lucky. I like to flip through the pages and see the latest colors and trends. Although I am not a fashionista, I think it is good to see what it going on outside my little craft room bubble.

While I was flipping through the last issue I saw an ad for OPI Nail Lacquer (which I already love) for Muppet Colors!!!! What a great product, it combines really good nail polish and a great child hood memory. I watched the Muppets as a child religiously so I rushed over to the OPI site to check out the new colors. How can you go wrong with Meep-Meep-Meep red, Fresh Frog of Bel Air green, Gone Gonzo blue or Excuse Moi pink! There are lots of other great colors with clever names that you should go and check out.

Upcoming Show in October!

2011-10-17T08:30:00.001-04:00

If you are in the Washington, DC area on Saturday, October 29 come and visit me and my tent mate Jill Popowich Designs at the DC Craft Mafia's Monster Mash.

When: Saturday, October 29, 2011
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Where: St. Lukes Episcopal Church-Parking Lot, P Street and 15th NW, Washington, DC

For more information and to see a listing of some of my wonderfully crafty neighbors at the show visit the craftmafiadc.com.

What I'm working on...Shoe Clips

2011-10-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

As you might be able to tell from my last tutorial I have been playing around with using leather for my flowers and other creations. Well I finally have come up with a leather flower I like after several failed attempts. Although leather is great because it does not fray it is a beast to sew and it is bulky. After many hours of fumbling around I finally came up with something I like and wanted to share.

If any of my readers have any good tips for working with leather or know of any good tutorials I would love to hear from you!

Leather Earring Tutorial

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

Why should leather only be used for jackets, shoes and purses? Medium weight or upholstery leather is easy to craft since it doesn't fray or crinkle. These leather earrings are quick, versatile and easy to make. You can even recycle those old purses or jackets that have damage since you really only need small amounts of good leather. I used 4" square leather samples and had plenty left over to make more earrings.

Supplies:
Leather
Leather punch (I bought mine at Michaels Craft store for around $10 but you can also get the from home stores like Home Depot or Lowes)
Sharp scissors
2-Large Jump Rings
2-Earring wires
Jewelry pliers

Download the pattern below, print and cut out shapes.
Cut 2-of each shape in the leather of your choice. I used 3 different types of leather, don't be afraid to mix it up.
Pile one set of the three shapes on top of each other and carefully punch a whole on one of the ends. I punched the hole about a quarter of an inch away from the end using the smallest punch size available. Repeat this step with second group of leather.
Using the pliers, put the jump ring through the a set of the leather "leaves" and attach the jump ring to the earring wire. Repeat this step with second group of leather.

A titillating fundraiser!

2011-10-01T08:30:00.001-04:00

Feather, glitter, tassels and much, much more! Hold on to your hats because BEST (a craft group I belong to) has just announced it’s first annual BEST for BREAST fundraiser.

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BEST team members have created handmade pasties using the medium of their choice. The pasties are up for sale on the Best4Breast Etsy site. With over 40 active members, including some who have survived breast cancer, BEST team members will use ceramic, fabric, feathers, metal and other materials to craft the pasties.

All proceeds collected from the BEST for Breasts sale will be donated to the Red Devils, a Maryland organization that funds services to improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients and their families.

So get to shopping!

Folded Flower Tutorial

2011-09-20T08:45:00.004-04:00

Sorry I haven't done a tutorial for awhile. Things have been a bit busy this summer between my day job all a bunch of opportunities to do outdoor craft shows. But I am back! So in true fashion for this blog I have come up with a folded fabric flower tutorial--big shocker huh?

Unlike my other tutorials I have made this one into a downloadable pdf. To download the tutorial click here or on the image below.

Beautiful Baltimore Bride

2011-09-01T09:49:00.007-04:00

Earlier this year I worked with Melissa on a headband/veil combo for her upcoming wedding. Since she was local she came to my studio and we worked out a design for a headband where she could have a removable blusher veil.

Needless to say Melissa is now a happily married woman and she was incredibly generous in sharing her wedding photos with me. Thanks Melissa!!!

As you know, I like seeing photos of my items in action so to speak and I love to share them with everyone else...so with no further ado, here they are!

The Versatile Blogger

2011-08-29T09:07:00.003-04:00

I would like to thank Kellianne from "tinkeranniebelle" for nominating me for The Versatile Blogger Award. After a bad weekend of Hurricanes, no electricity and water in my basement it was such a pleasant surprise to come and check out my blog and see such a lovely surprise. Tinkeranniebelle is an informative and crafty blog written by Kellianne and after a little reading I could not help but fall in love with her! Anyone who describes herself as someone who loves to play in the mud is good in my book. So go check out her blog and some of the others I mention below!

After accepting the Versatile Blogger Award, the blogger must:

Thank the person who gave the award and link back to them in your post.
Share seven things about yourself.
Pass this award along to 10 recently discovered blogs.

Okay, so seven things about myself:

Sometimes I think I love my dogs more than my husband (thank goodness he doesn't follow my blog!)
I love pickles.
Autumn is my favorite season.
Most nights I can be found crafting.
I can't be trusted in craft stores, I always buy things I don't need
I love going to Renn Faires and dressing in garb.
Ru Paul's Drag Race is my favorite show.

Now, here are 10 blogs I've recently discovered that I hope you will take the time to visit:

Peacock Earring Tutorial

2011-08-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

I can't go anywhere without seeing a pair of feather earrings. They seem to be really hot right now so I decided to whip up a pair. They are a very simple peacock feather pair, you should be able to get most of the supplies in your local craft store.

Supplies:
4 peacock eye feathers
Scissors
Hot Glue
1 Set of Wire Earring Hooks
2 Fold Over Crimp Ends
2 Jump Rings
Small Pliers (used for jewelry and delicate work)

Take 2 of your peacock feathers and trim the wispy eyelash like ends off of the rounded top and cut off the stem about an inch below the “eye” (see fig. 1).
Trim the two remaining feathers similar to the others, except you will be cropping closer to the eye, see fig. 3 for a reference.
Use the glue gun and add a bead of glue down the spine of one of the trimmed eye only feathers. Glue this feather on top of one of the larger feathers (see fig. 3). Repeat this step with second set of feathers
Place a small bit of glue to the very tip of the feather cluster on the front side and glue a fold over crimp bead to it. Make sure the font of the crimp bead is towards the front of the feathers.

Note: This will not hold the feather in place, however it will help to steady the feather when you are closing the crimp ends.
Using the pliers, fold down the crimp ends so they tightly fit the feathers. Repeat this step with the second set of feathers.
Using the jump rings, attach the feather cluster to the earring wire.

Recycled Packing Material

2011-08-16T08:56:00.005-04:00

I am a bubble wrap girl. Even as a child I was more excited about popping the bubble wrap than playing with the item the bubble wrap was protecting. So recently when I was packing up one of my feather creations to ship and I reached for the bubble wrap and it wasn't there I didn't know what to do. It was late and I couldn't go to the store but the package needed to ship first thing in the morning.

I wandered around the house looking for packing items when I came upon my "bag o' bags." You know, that bag of plastic bags you get from stores? I usually try to bring reusable bags but find that I still have at least a dozen plastic bags on hand. I usually use them as trash or doggy poo bags or return them to the recycle bins at the stores but now I use them for packing.

Plastic store bags make great packing material around delicate objects! So the next time you need packing material grab for that bag o' bags. I usually wrap the item in tissue paper before I pack it with the plastic store bags since the store bags ink sometimes rubs off.

Glimpsed at Work!

2011-08-08T08:57:00.002-04:00

Every week the Baltimore Sun's Sloane Brown writes a column called Glimpsed, where she visits businesses and picks five fashionable people to photograph and write a blurb about. A few weeks ago she visited where I work, Devaney & Associates and I was one of the people chosen!

This was super exciting since I didn't think I really had any "fashion" sense. This finally makes up for those high school years where everyone would give me the hairy eyeball for wearing what I wanted instead of what was in style!

I have attached my picture but you should go check out the online column yourself. There are a lot of great outfits worn by everyday people. Glimpsed can be found here.

Green Craft magazine

2011-08-01T09:39:00.004-04:00

Usually when I go to the mail box I only ever pull out bills so you can imagine my surprise when I had the latest copy of Green Craft magazine waiting for me. It was such a big surprise because I did not order the magazine, I got a free copy because my Recycled Ruffled headband tutorial was published!

I love how to craft books and magazines so coming up with tutorials is one of my favorite things and it tickles me to see one published!

Special order for a special bride!

2011-07-26T13:04:00.003-04:00

Recently I got a pleasant surprise while I was checking my email. I was very excited when Melissa, a bride I worked with months ago, sent me wedding photos!

When I work with brides I often get written descriptions, fabric swatches and mobile phone snapshots to help me come up with design ideas but I rarely ever see the finished item as it was meant to be seen on the wedding day.

So when I got the photos I was completely tickled to see the hair accessory in action. Not to mention Melissa could make anything look good! She was such a lovey bride, if you didn't know better you would think Melissa was a model.

Thanks Melissa!

A little something for the Bride

2011-07-22T12:25:00.008-04:00

Recently I have been working on a lot of special orders for brides and bridal parties so I thought I would share some of my latest feathered creations!

I love the above clip because it uses a cluster of several different feathers in shades of white, off white and cream.

This clip features a retro piece of jewelry. I have a whole collection of old earrings and pins that I love to use to create one of a kind pieces.

The two colored peacock clips were for a bridesmaid. She wasn't sure what she wanted so I made two different clips and let her choose her favorite. I often do this in my shop for special orders. Making options for the buyer to choose which they like the best.

If you are getting married and are interested in a Special Order, visit my shop on ETSY and convo me.

Doily Lace Flower Accessory

2011-07-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Even though I am not what I consider a "girly girl", if you have followed my blog for a little while you will notice a slight girly obsession with making flowers. I have no idea where this obsession came from but I constantly look at items and ask myself...can I make a flower out of that?

So it should be no surprise that I have yet another flower accessory tutorial. This flower is very easy to make and you only need basic hand sewing skills.

Supplies:
4 foot length of Doily Lace
Small piece of felt
Needle and thread (matching lace color)
Medium to large sized buttons
Gator clip and/or pin back
Hot glue gun
Scissors

Cut a 4 foot length of lace. Using your needle and thread, tightly gather one side of the lace.
Note: If your lace has an unfinished side or is pre-gathered, stitch along this edge. Even if it is pre-gathered you want to gather the lace as much as you can.
Print out the Doily Lace Flower backer pattern. Cut out one of the shapes from the felt (Use the scale to make sure the print out is the correct size)
Using the 1.75" felt circle as a base, start to sew the gathered edge of the lace to felt. Make sure to start on the outside, wrapping the lace around and towards the center.
Sew buttons to the center of the flower. I used two medium sized buttons and stacked them to create my flower's center.
Take the 2" felt circle and sew on the pin. If you plan to add a pin and a gator clip make sure your pin is sewn slightly off center allowing space for the gator clip.
Hot glue the gator clip next to the pin and finish off the back by hot gluing the felt heart over the back part of both the gator clip and pin.
Hot glue the pin/clip back to the felt back of the flower.

Artscape 2011

2011-07-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Visiting Artscape in Baltimore this weekend? Well swing my the DIY tent and visit me (Design by Night) and my table mate Jenni from Lana Bella.

If you have never been I would suggest you give it a try! Artscape is America’s largest free arts festival, and it features 150+artists, fashion designers and craftspeople, including DIY/new wave crafters; visual art exhibits on and off site, such as outdoor sculpture, art cars, photography and the Janet & Walter Sondheim Artscape Prize; incredible live concerts on four outdoor stages; a full schedule of performing arts including dance, opera, theater, fashion, film, experimental music and performances by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; family events such as hands-on projects, demonstrations, jazz vocal and combo competitions, children’s entertainers and multiple street theater locations; and a delicious, international menu of food and beverages available throughout the site.

Dates:
July 15, 16 & 17, 2011

Hours:
Friday: 12-10pm / Saturday: 12-10pm / Sunday: 12-8pm

Location:
Mount Royal Avenue & Cathedral Street / Charles Street
Bolton Hill neighborhood & Station North Arts & Entertainment District

A good landmark to help with directions is the The Patricia and Arthur Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 West Mt. Royal Avenue, 21201. www.lyricoperahouse.com

For more information visit www.artscape.org.

Ballston Market this weekend!

2011-07-06T08:00:00.002-04:00

Come visit me (Design by Night), Jill Popowich Designs and many more at the 2011 Ballston Market this Saturday, July 9th.

Ballston Arts and Crafts Market is located in Welburn Square (across from the Ballston Metro) at North Stuart & North 9th Streets from 10 am till 4 pm.

For more information visit the website at ballstonarts-craftsmarket.blogspot.com.

Black Cherry Treasury

2011-06-30T17:00:00.000-04:00

Check out the new treasury!

From the Button Jar

2011-06-28T08:39:00.012-04:00

I am a complete sucker for a button jar. Anytime I see one at a yard sale or junk store I just have to have it. I do not sew a lot of clothing so basically I just keep adding these button jars to a never ending collection that I have sitting on my shelf.

For those of you who have purchased a poppy or peacock pin set from me, you will know that I always glue some buttons to my paper backers. People often ask me at shows, "what are the buttons for?" I tell them of my button jar obsession and the fact that I really have no other idea of what to do with all of them.

Since I have so many buttons, I decided to try to make some crafts using them. So periodically you will see a "From the button jar" post pop up in the near future as I explore some uses for these wonderful little treasures.

My first idea was to make a button ring. Not to long ago I purchased ring blanks on a whim. Needless to say they have sat next to the button jar for months until finally it hit me that I should make a button ring. Button rings are very easy to make and turn out super cute!

Materials
Ring Blank (you can do a search on Etsy to find them, they come in all different styles)
E-6000 Glue
Needle and thread (optional)
1-3 buttons (depending on button style and personal taste)

Double thread the needle by pulling the thread through the eye and doubling it up. Pull the needle through the holes of the buttons leaving enough tale so you can tie the buttons together on the back side using the thread. Do this several times forming a criss cross pattern on the front of the buttons and knotting off the back to make sure they are securely attached.

Note: This step is optional. I like the look of the criss cross thread on the buttons, however you can just glue the buttons together if you prefer.
Place a dab of the E-6000 glue on the ring blank's glue pad and attach it to the back of the buttons. Let it dry over night. Make sure that you put enough glue on the pad so that when placed on the back of the buttons there is a bead of glue all the way around the edge.

What I am working on–June Bride

2011-06-23T09:18:00.004-04:00

When I sat at my work table the other day the pile of vintage earrings were speaking to me so I decided to make two hair clips with a bride in mind. Although I think these creamy colors with the vintage flair would add something special to any outfit.

These hair clips have something old and something new and I will have them this weekend at Pile of Craft if you want to come and see them in person. You can also find the above, Vivian Hair Clip on Etsy.

Scrapbooking flower pins

2011-06-22T08:30:00.001-04:00

Although I do not scrapbook, I am often drawn like a moth to a flame to the scrapbook isle in the craft store. I love all the miniature stickers, brads, stamped metal plates, colorful papers and above all anything glittery. Since I am a addicted to craft supplies, it is very hard to fight off the impulse to buy these things but usually I can turn away knowing that I probably will never design a scrapbooking page in my life.

Well about six months ago my addictive personality won (my name is Kolleen and I am a craft-o-holic). A tiny little glass jar of Fabric Fancies caught my eye. Fabric + flowers + glitter was too much temptation for me. I purchased this little jar of flower happiness and needless to say that jar has sat on my shelf for six months unopened…until this week.

Who said you need to use scrapbooking embellishments for scapbooking? No one did! I think the key word here is "embellshments." So I took that jar off the shelf, broke the seal and started working. These cute little pre-formed fabric flower pieces are perfect for turning into dainty flower hair pins.

This isn't exactly a tutorial, more of an idea starter. I am sure these flowers have dozens of uses that I haven't even considered and if anyone has any other ideas or photos of things they have made from them I would love to see and possibly post them!

Supplies:
Prima Marketing Got Flowers (I used Fabric Fancies)
Buttons
Needle and thread
Bobby Pin with glue pad (you can purchase these on Etsy)
E-6000 Glue

Pile up a grouping of flower embellishments on top of each other until you have something you like. It is up to you, use one or a dozen! Thread your needle and put a few stitches through the center to hold them in place.
Sew a button or two to the center of the flower. I like to use two or three varying in size and color to add a little dimension.
Take the E-6000 glue and place a dollop on the pad of the bobby pin. Glue the the back of the flower. Note: Make sure that you put enough glue on the pad so that when placed on the back of the flower there is a bead of glue all the way around the edge.

Pile of Craft this weekend!

2011-06-21T08:30:00.001-04:00

Come see me this weekend at Pile of Craft!

JUNE 25, 2011 - 10am to 5pm

2640 St Paul Street, Baltimore MD 21218, inside St John's Church

This year's fair will have over 65 of the best local and national crafters, as well as a weaving demonstration by Carlybird Weaves and and a raffle to win a huge basket full of goodies by supporting a local arts organization (TBA.)

To check out the other great vendors beforehand visit the Charm City Craft Mafia website.

What I am working on…

2011-06-10T08:30:00.000-04:00

I have been busy, busy, busy doing shows with no time to take photos of some of my new work. So I decided to put my lunch time to good use and take a few new picts. Check them out:

Burlesque Betty, red peacock clip

Sophia peacock clip

Audrey, peacock and purple peacock feather clip

Chloe, peacock and green hackle feather Clip

Scrabble Drink Coaster Tutorial

2011-06-07T12:19:00.016-04:00

Did your P go under the sofa? Lose your S over a heated game? Do you have a Scrabble game sitting around that is missing letter tiles? Well I have the perfect tutorial for you!

Recycle those Scrabble tiles and make clever and quirky coasters. A set would make a great Father's day or house warming gift.

Supplies:
16 Scrabble tiles (makes one coaster)
Xacto or Utility Knife
Ruler
E-6000 Glue
4” x 4” piece of thin cork that can be cut with an Xacto Knife*
Paper towel

*Note: I used Project Cork that I purchased at a Joann’s Store however you can also find it on Amazon. If you use this cork you want to unroll it and sit it under a heavy book so to remove the curl that the roll causes. Plus if it is very thin you might want to double it up.

The coaster will be four tiles wide and four tiles high. Take your Scrabble tiles and figure out what letters you would like to use. I choose to use four 4-letter words that have something to do with beverages. Here are some suggestions:
· Beer, Brew, Hops & Pint
· Stir, Lime, Iced & Salt
· Wine, Pour, Vine & Cork
· Java, Shot, Bean & Teas
Lightly sand the back of all the tiles so the glue has a stronger hold.
Using the E-6000 (in a well ventilated area), put an even layer of glue on the back side of the first tile. Glue it to the upper right hand corner of the cork making sure the top and right edge is flush with the cork.
Take the glue and run it along the right side of the tile you just placed. Be sure not to use too much glue.
Glue the back of the second tile and place the it to the right of the first. Squeeze the tiles tightly together. If the glue oozes out the top or sides wipe it off carefully with a paper towel.
Glue the remaining tiles in place, remember to place a bead of glue between the edges of the tiles that are adjacent to each other.
Let the tiles dry overnight.
Trim off the edges of the cork and pour yourself a drink.

Peacock Treasury!

2011-06-07T12:13:00.001-04:00

Today I was pleasantly surprised to be included in a Peacock Treasury on Etsy, go check it out!

Come to Honfest this weekend!

2011-06-07T08:30:00.001-04:00

Come see me (Design by Night) and my girls from Kiss n Makeup at Honfest this weekend. I will have a table in from of Kiss n Makeup on the Avenue (827 W. 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211).

Honfest is Saturday, June 11 and Sunday June 12. The fun starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. For more information visit www.honfest.net.

Free Recycled Fabric Flower Workshop – Registration Open!

2011-06-02T17:02:00.003-04:00

I will be holding a BEST-led workshop on Tuesday, June 7th!

In this workshop, I will be demonstrating how to repurpose old bridesmaid and prom dresses into fabulous flower brooches and headbands. She'll be showing 2-3 different style techniques in the demo.

Most woman fulfill the duty of bridesmaids approximately three times in her lifetime, two thirds have been in three to five. According to statistics, over 80% of bridesmaid dresses are worn only once. So what do you do with these hidden poofy organza, satin, chiffon monsters in your closet? Turn them into stylish accessories of course!

Attendees should bring:

• Fabric Scissors

• Millinery Sewing Needles

• Glue Gun and glue sticks

• 1-Plain Headband (can be fabric, plastic or metal)

• Straight Pins

• OPTIONAL: Old bridesmaid, prom or formal dress made from a combination of satin, organza or chiffon

Recycled dresses, as well as other materials will be provided by the instructor. Each participant will leave with two finished projects, a headband and a brooch.

The workshop will be held at the MICA Fox Building, room 218. There are only 20 spaces available, so reserve your spot now!

Tuesday Farmer's Market in Lauraville

2011-06-01T08:30:00.001-04:00

Tuesday Market in Lauraville starts June 7th! After shopping for fresh local produce, maple syrup, chocolates, handmade crafts and much more, you can enjoy a wonderful dinner from a variety of vendors while listening to live music.

The Tuesday Market features over 30 vendors. It takes place every Tuesday evening from 4-8pm. For more information and to view a vendor list visit LauravilleFarmersMarket.blogspot.com.

A Jewel of a Cookbook

2011-05-26T10:09:00.011-04:00

For those who have followed my blog for awhile, you will know that I love old cookbooks and like to use them while crafting. There is nothing better than flipping through one and finding some crazy recipe you have never heard of (and would never make) like Ham Loaf or Lamb Ring.

So this morning while I was cleaning out one of my drawers I came across the Jewel Cook Book, Recipes for Good Eating. This cookbook was a freebie that the company gave away in hopes that people would make recipes using their products. I often find that the old give away cookbooks are the best for finding amusing recipes and sometimes advertisements and this cookbook was no exception. Needless to say the Jewel Cook Book is a treasure trove of quirky advertising finds. Here are just a few (feel free to ad your own comments!):

I know the designer was going for the "just like gramdmom's" feel but honestly the disembodied floating grandmom head is kind of disturbing. It looks like someone chopped off her head and mounted it to the page like a deer head.

What's your belief? My belief is that if you can't think of a good concept word bubbles are a great way to go. I have never seen people so happy about a cleaner...maybe they are sniffing it instead of cleaning with it?

And last but not least my favorite, I am a sucker for these old illustrations. I always wear heals and a skirt anytime I clean my floors with Bruce!

Handmade Mart this weekend!

2011-05-20T08:30:00.005-04:00

Come visit me (Design by Night) and my partner in crafts (and tent mate) Jill Popowich Designs this Sunday at Handmade Mart in Silver Spring Maryland.

The Handmade Mart is an annual, juried, independent craft fair that takes place in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. Launched in the spring of 2009, the Handmade Mart has already become a mainstay of the local art scene with 60+ craft vendors selling handmade goods, live music, and hands-on workshops.

For more information visit handmade-mart.com.

Sunday, May 22, 2011, 10am-5pm
Ellsworth Drive (Between Fenton & Georgia Avenue)

It's a spring thing this Saturday!

2011-05-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

Join me (Design by Night), Jill Popowich Designs and around 40 other crafters for a glorious Spring day of arts & crafts near Dupont Circle in Washington, DC! The Spring Thing will take place in the parking lot of St. Lukes Episcopal Church, only three blocks from Dupont Metro station.

Saturday, May 22, 20011
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
St. Lukes Episcopal Church Parking lot

For more information and directions visit www.craftmafiadc.com/Spring-Thing.html

Maryland Faerie Festival this weekend!

2011-05-12T08:30:00.001-04:00

Come visit me at the The Maryland Faerie Festival this weekend! The Maryland Faerie Festival celebrates the Faeries on May 14th and 15th, 2011 Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Come and enjoy the pageantry, magic, music, and mischief.

18405 Queen Anne Rd
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

May 14th & 15th, 2011

For more information visit www.marylandfaeriefestival.org.

Peacock Necklace Tutorial

2011-05-06T08:30:00.000-04:00

I can't open a magazine or visit a fashion website without seeing some kind of feather accessory. Yes, I do make feather hair clips but I thought it would be fun to try my hand at making some jewelry. So after a little craft exploration I came up with an idea for a necklace out of feathers and an old plain chain necklace.

Supplies:
5 peacock eye feathers
Scissors
Paper
Pencil
Glue Gun
Stiff Felt (the kind you buy by the square)
Needle
Thread that matches felt
Old chain necklace (if you don’t have an old chain necklace you can purchase new chain and findings in most craft stores)

Take three of your peacock feathers and trim the wispy eyelash like ends off of the rounded top and cut off the stem just below the “eye” (see fig. 1).
Arrange the feathers similar to fig. 2a on top of the piece of paper. Carefully trace around the feathers. When you remove the feathers place them to the side in the exact order you had them on your paper pattern.
Take the pencil and draw a line inside the current outline that follows the shape of the original outline. Your new “inside” pattern should be about an eighth of an inch (give or take) from the original “outside” line. Cut out the “inside” pattern shape.
Use the cut out paper pattern to cut out the felt backing. Place feathers on top of the felt to make sure that you can’t see any of the felt when the feathers are in position. Trim the felt if necessary.
Take the chain and place the middle center aligned with the top center of the felt (see fig.5a). Sew the chain in place. Next take the chain and move one side to the left top corner and sew in place, repeat with right side (fig. 5b).
With your trimmed feathers close by, take the glue gun and put a thin layer on the left side.* When the area is covered pick up the left hand side feather and carefully place it on the glued area. If the placement is not perfect DO NOT WORRY, that is why we have the other two feathers that we haven’t touched yet sitting on the side.

*NOTE: It is very important that the glue does not have any thick beads, to help avoid this make sure your glue gun is very hot and take the tip and place it right up against the felt and move it around the area.
Repeat step 6 with the right and center feathers.

NOTE: Because hot glue is unforgiving and you can’t move the feathers around after they have touched the glue, you might notice small gaps where you can see the felt. Do not worry the next steps will cover these little gaps.
Trim the two remaining feathers similar to the others, except you will be cropping closer to the eye, see fig. 8 for a reference.
On the back side of the trimmed feathers, put a bead of glue along the stem (fig. 9a) then place the cropped feathers over the felt to cover the gaps (fig. 9b)

Kiss this! First Friday Trunk Show

2011-05-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

Come visit me (Design by Night) this Friday at Kiss'n Makeup in Hampden, hon! It is first Friday in Hampden and Kiss N' Makeup is celebrating by having a trunk show. I will be their working the streets and selling my wares and I will be joined by the very talented Adele from DelC Transit Authority.

When: Friday May 6, 2001
Time: 6 pm
Where: Kiss'n Makeup, 827 W. 36th Street

For more information visit the KISS THIS!! event page on Facebook.

Pretty Pansy Pin Tutorial

2011-04-29T11:49:00.015-04:00

For those who follow my blog, you know that I have a slight obsession with creating flowers. I purchase books, surf the web and have ruined many a good piece of fabric/supply trying out new ideas. In my pursuit of “new” flower ideas I have found some “old” flower ideas in the form of ribbon flowers. Ribbon work has been around since the 17th century. Once only affordable for the high society, ribbon work became popular in the early 1900’s due to articles in ladies magazines which featured ribbon flowers as hair ornaments, on belts and bags, lingerie items, and on decorative pillows for the home.*

Since it is spring I decide to try out a ribbon pansy. I found some basic instructions and after a few tries reworked them to come up with this pretty pansy pin. This pin would make a perfect accessory to any little girl's wardrobe this spring.

*Ribbon History from www.offray.com

Supplies:
21.5” of 1.5” wide wired ribbon (I you want to use different ribbon for each layer you will need one 12” for the top petals, 8” for the bottom petals and 1.5” for the center)
Scissors
Craft/utility knife
Glue Gun
Felt
Needle
Thread that matches ribbon
Measuring tape or ruler
Cotton ball
Bobby pin

Cut a 12” piece, this will be the top part of the flower. The second piece should be 8”, this will create the bottom two petals. Put aside the remaining 1.5” inch piece for later.
Remove the wire from one side of the 12” and 8” piece of ribbon to create the gathering edge.
Thread your needle with an 18” piece of thread and knot off. Starting with the 12” piece of ribbon, sew three U-gather stitch sections in 4” intervals. You want to start your stitches at the top with the wire so that the bulk of the gathered stitches are on the unwired edge. See fig 3a.
When you get to the end gather the ribbon and tie off the end but do not trim. Wrap the petals in a circle and secure stitch the petals in place.
Rethread your needle with a 14” piece of thread and knot it off. Using the 8” ribbon, sew two U-gather stitch sections in 4” intervals. You want to start your stitches at the top with the wire so that the bulk of the gathered stitches are on the unwired edge. See fig 5.
When you get to the end gather the ribbon and tie off the end but do not trim. Sew the two open ends together.
Sew the three petal section on top of the two petal section. Stitch in the center only and try to hide the stitches in the folds. Put aside while you make the center.
Take the 1.5” ribbon and remove the wire from both sides. Cut a 1.5” round circle out of the ribbon by rounding off the edges (doesn’t have to be perfect).
Thread your needle with a 12” piece of thread and run a gather stitch around the edge of the circle. Gather the circle half way then take part of your cotton ball and stuff the circle. Finish gathering the circle and tie off the thread but do not trim.
Sew the ribbon ball to the center of the pansy. Your flower is complete!
Now for attaching the pansy to the pin. Cut felt into a 1” round piece. Take the craft knife and put a small slit in the center. Thread the bobby pin through the center slit.
Hot glue the front of the felt circle it (and the bobby pin) to the back of the pansy.

2011 Highlandtown Wine Festival

2011-04-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

Come see me and several of my crafty friends at the 8th annual Highlandtown Wine Festival this weekend!

The Highlandtown Wine Festival celebrates the tradition of home winemaking (and some home crafting!). The event will be held at Our Lady of Pompei Convent Garden on Father Petti Lane (around the corner from Claremont & Conkling Streets). The festival will feature a Homemade Wine Competition, Wine Tastings, a Bocce Tournament, plenty of food, local crafts and music.

Here is a little taste of some of the crafts you will see:

Feather and flower accessories from Design by Night (you know you can't keep me away from a festival all for wine!)

Soaps, lotions and best yet whipped body butter (a must for home use the night of the wine festival) by my girl (and fellow wine lover) Jenni from Lanabella.

What could be better than glitter and unicorns? Glitter and local wine of course! For a full bodied helping of glitter visit Lauren from Jersey Girl Design.

She's Smart Review

2011-04-21T14:59:00.003-04:00

About a month or so ago I was approached to be reviewed on ShesSmart.com. Free publicity? Heck yeah! So today I was checking in and there are my pins!

Go check out the review on ShesSmart.com!

I got the blues

2011-04-14T18:31:00.002-04:00

No I don't have the blues personally, actually I am super happy because I have been featured in another great treasury! If you have the blues check it out and I guarantee it will put a smile on your face.

Dreams of Capri

2011-04-14T11:17:00.003-04:00

I have been included in a registry on Etsy! Please check it out and let the curator know if you like it.

Here and there!

2011-04-13T11:12:00.005-04:00

So I am a little behind (sometimes I am so far behind I think I am ahead) but I just realized that my Paper Towel Roll Flower Tutorial was featured on two blogs so far this year!

First on Green Your Way. It is featured with eight other great recycled paper towel/toilet roll ideas.

And again on Cynchronicity. Each have listings of other clever ideas on how to use this abundant household waste.

Flower Brooch Tutorial

2011-04-11T08:30:00.000-04:00

When I was a kid, I remember my family getting corsages or flowers for my grandmothers to wear on Mother’s Day. To this day I always stop and get my mom flowers but I thought that maybe this year I would do something a little different. Since I am obsessed with making flowers, why not make my mom a flower corsage? So after some research I found instructions on how to make ribbon leaves, so I took those instructions and built on them turning those leaves into this lovely flower.

Supplies:
Scissors
Glue Gun
Felt
Needle
Thread
Pin back
1/8” of a Yard of 45” wide Fabric (I used 2 different fabrics, satin and organza)
Large button center or old jewelry
Pin back
Ruler
Compass

Cut two circles out of the felt. One 2.25” and the other 2.5” round.
Cut 15-3”x3” squares out of the fabric.
Thread your needle and knot off. Take one of the squares and fold it in half length wise with the good side of the fabric facing outward. Hold in place with your fingers.
Take the upper right corner and fold it down towards the center of the fabric. Holding the folded corner in place, repeat with the other corner.
Take the needle and run a gathering stitch along the open bottom edge of the fabric. Gather the fabric together and knot it off. Repeat steps four and five with the remaining 14 squares of fabric.
Now that all the petals are done you can start to sew them to the base. Using the smaller 2.25” circle, take one of the petals with folds facing up and stitch about a quarter of an inch away from the outer edge, see fig. 6a. Repeat this step with four more petals until the outer edge is filled with petals, see fig. 6b.
Moving to about .75” from the edge, start your second row of five petals. Note: This is the row I used a different fabric. Don’t be afraid to mix it up a bit.
The last set of petals are not quite a row but more of a pile up. Start by sewing one petal to the center of the flower. For the next petal you will stagger the position but will sew threw the original petal and into the center of the flower as well. Repeat this until the remaining petals are attached. The center will consist of four petals.
To finish the center of the flower you can use a fancy button or recycle and old piece of jewelry. If you use a button I would suggest sewing it to the center. However, if you use an old piece of jewelry (or earring like me) you can just use hot glue to attach it to the center.
So the flower is finished but what about the back? Put the flower aside for a moment and grab the 2.5” round felt and the pin back. Glue the pin to the center of the felt using hot glue (don’t worry we are going to cover up that oozy messy glue in the next step).
Take a piece of felt or left over fabric and cut it into the shape of a small heart. (I usually just eye ball something but you can make a paper pattern if it is easier for you.) Glue this heart over the pin to cover up the glue gump, see fig. 11. Then glue your backer to the back side of the flower.

Appearance on Crafting a Green World!

2011-04-07T15:56:00.002-04:00

My tutorial was featured on Crafting a Green World today!

Washer Necklace Tutorial

2011-04-01T08:30:00.001-04:00

Every time I buy furniture that requires assembly I always left over hardware. I take this hardware and put it in a jar thinking that one day I will need that extra nut or bolt. Well today is that day! Below is a tutorial on how to take those extra washers and make them into a cute necklace.

Supplies:
Scissors
X-acto knife or hole punch
Pencil
Small piece of scrapbooking paper (you can use the left over scraps for this project)
Modge Podge (or something similar)
Washer
Aleene’s Paper Glaze
36” of ribbon or cord

Use the washer to trace a circle on the paper, don’t forget to trace the inside circle as well.
Using your scissors cut just inside of the traced line on the outer circle. Note: you want to cut inside of the line and not on it so it fits on the washer and does not overlap the edges. If the hole for your center is close to the same size of a hole punch, simply punch out the center circle. If not use the X-acto knife to cut out the center area.
Modge Podge the paper to the washer and set aside to dry. Note: I put mine under a heavy book so the edges didn't curl up.
After the glue is dry, using Aleene’s Paper Glaze, start along the edge and work your way around and inward until the paper is coated. Let it sit overnight to dry in an area where there isn’t a lot of dust or pet hair.

Note: Be careful not to shake or move the glaze too much because it will form bubbles. If bubbles form you can take a pin and carefully pop them. Your paper will appear cloudy at first, however as the glaze dries it will become clear.
After the glaze is completely dry, cut a 36” piece of ribbon or cord to use as the necklace. Loop the ribbon/cord through the center of the washer. You can trim the ribbon/cord according to the length of the necklace you want. Remember to allow ribbon/cord so the necklace can be tied in the back.

Black and White

2011-03-27T21:43:00.003-04:00

I was featured in another great treasury today. It's as simple as black and white!

Summer Queen Treasury

2011-03-25T09:49:00.003-04:00

With the recent cold weather in Baltimore, summer seems so far away. But this new Etsy treasury featuring my Titania Fairy Crown is warming me up. Go check it out!

Cherry Blossoms-What I am working on

2011-03-21T08:46:00.003-04:00

I fellow crafter is getting married this month and she asked me if I create a cherry blossom fascinator with some teal. I had never created a cherry blossom flower before but I am very pleased with how it turned out so I thought I would share it.

In a Zip –Zipper Flower Tutorial

2011-03-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

These cute zipper flowers can me made into a number of accessories by adding different backers such as a pin. I made them into two hair accessories (go figure). So get some supplies and start crafting…you will have your own in a zip!

Supplies:

22” zipper
Scissors
Glue Gun
Felt
Needle
Thread
Headband or gator clip

Cut bottom end off of the zipper and remove the sliding “zipper” piece. You will have 2 zipper ribbons, both are used to make the flower.
Using the felt, cut out one 1” round piece and one 1.25” round piece.
Take the 1” round piece of felt and sew the end to the center of the circle.
Take the zipper ribbon and loop it up and around so it looks like fig. 4. The loop should be approximately 2” from end to end. Stitch the loop in place through the center.
Loop the zipper ribbon a second time making a “figure 8” and stitch in place.
Repeat steps 4 and 5, moving the ribbon loops to the side of the one you just created. See Figures 6A through 6C. When you get to the end of the first zipper ribbon tie off the thread on the back of the felt but do not cut it.
Take the second zipper ribbon and sew it to the center of the flower.
Loop the second zipper ribbon in a similar fashion to the first but make the loops/petals slightly smaller (approx. 1” to 1.25” long). Try to place the loops in between the larger loops in the back to fill in the gaps.
After you have made 5 loop/petals with the second zipper ribbon secure the loops and tie off the thread. Make sure you have a tail of ribbon left to make the center of the flower. Cut off the thread.
Starting at the end of the un-looped zipper ribbon, start to roll the zipper ribbon unto itself toward the center of the flower making sure to stay stitch the “non tooth” end when necessary (see figs. 10A and 10B).
When the zipper ribbon is completely rolled up, stitch the roll at its base through the center of the flower through to the back of the felt. Come back through (carefully) and repeat this step until you feel the rolled center is secure. When it is secure tie off the thread on the back end.

Your flower is now complete. The following steps show you how I attached the flower to a gator clip and a headband.

Gator clip
Take the 1.25” circle from step one and put 2 slits in the center of the felt so you can slide the gator clip through it. Then simply glue the two felt pieces together with hot glue.

Headband
Pick a spot on the headband where you would like the flower and glue the felt to the top side of the headband. Taking the 1.25” circle of felt from step 1, glue the circle to the other piece of felt sandwiching the headband in between.

Blue Monday Treasury on Friday Night!

2011-03-11T19:18:00.004-05:00

I was singing the blues today until I saw this wonderful blue treasury...it was better than a Prozac! Go check it out for yourself!

What I am working on

2011-03-08T17:30:00.000-05:00

I worked on hair clips this past weekend trying to come up with some new feather fascinator designs. Check out some of the results. Comments are so welcome because I need some help to decide which one will be added to my permanent line!

Baltimore Brides Treasury

2011-03-08T08:51:00.003-05:00

Something old, something new, something borrowed, and my Calypso Blue hair clip! Check out the Baltimore Brides Treasury on Etsy! It features my Calypso Blue Fascinator and other great items from the Baltimore Etsy Street Team.

Sweet Carnations

2011-03-06T21:59:00.002-05:00

My Dainty Lace Flower Filigree headband was featured in an Etsy Treasury, go check it out!

Happy Birthday Theodor Geisel!

2011-03-02T12:44:00.009-05:00

The name Theodor Geisel may not be familiar but I am betting you know who he is...here are a few clues (with help from some crafty Esty stores).

I will not Eat Green Eggs and Ham...but I certainly will wear these cute earrings from Sally Sweet Tooth

Who says diapers can't be fun? You can't help but smile over this Fabric Diaper Tote Bag from Fancy Face Bags

This Curved Shelf from Wood Curve was inspired (like many of us) by this artist

National Pancake Day!

2011-03-01T09:51:00.002-05:00

Finally a holiday you can sink your teeth into! It is National Pancake Day and although I doubt most corporate offices are closed for this tasty holiday, try to find some time to visit your local IHOP from 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. today to receive your FREE short stack of pancakes. In return for the free flapjacks, IHOP ask you to consider leaving a little something behind for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and other designated local charities.

So dig in!

Recycle Bin Organizers

2011-03-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

Need some craft room organization? Look no further than your recycling bin. Instead of purchasing foo foo expensive containers from your local craft store pull out those pickle jars from your recycling. With a few jars, some paper scraps, misc. buttons and a little bit of time you can make very cute (and very free) craft organizers.

The above organizers consist of a salsa, pickle and tomato sauce jars.

Featured on Ms. Charm's Chic!

2011-02-28T09:50:00.005-05:00

I'm very excited and extremely happy to be featured on Ms. Charm’s Chic today! If you are from Charm City (Baltimore) and love fashion this is the blog for you.

Ms. Charm’s Chic defines Baltimore’s fashion scene by providing local and independent fashion designers, boutique owners, and other style makers with a platform to share their stories with the world.

So please check out my Q&A and follow this wonderful stylish B-more Blog!

Featured on Instructables!

2011-02-25T16:00:00.001-05:00

Check out my Pom Pom Package topper tutorial featured on the home page of Instructables!

A Midsummer Nights Dream Treasury

2011-02-25T12:49:00.002-05:00

My Peacock Blue brooch/clip is featured in a Treasury on Etsy. Please go and check it out!

“Think Spring” Jewelry Design Contest-Bead Away Your Winter Blues

2011-02-24T17:15:00.002-05:00

Spring is just around the corner, and what a better way to celebrate the arrival of a new season and a rejuvenation of life than to express it with beads! Beadazzled, a bead shop located in Baltimore, MD is hosting a Spring beading contest.

For more information, visit there website a www.beadazzled.net.

Paper Wheel Accessory Tutorial

2011-02-23T08:30:00.001-05:00

Like most artist/crafters I carry a sketchbook around with me most of the time. In this sketchbook I scribble ideas or sketch things that catch my eye. Every once in awhile I flip through my sketch book and I always find a little something that I forgot I had...this tutorial is one of those sketchbook Easter eggs.

This easy to make paper wheel can be used for a multitude of projects and is super easy to make. I made two samples, one uses photos and can be used as gift tags or party decorations. The other I turned into a flower name card.

Other ideas:

Gift topper instead of a bow
Christmas tree ornaments
Gift tags

Supplies:
Card stock paper
Scissors
Glue stick
Pencil

Download paperwheel_template.jpg and print it out full size (a scale has been placed on each jpg to help with printing at the correct proportions).
Trace six circles onto a piece of card stock paper and cut them out.
Place the triangle template in the center back of one of the cut out circles. Trace two sides of the triangle using a pencil. Repeat this step for the remainder of the circles.
Use these lines as a guide to fold the paper. Fold all six circles.
Place glue on the back side of the folded circle flaps. Glue flaps together with the point of the triangle facing in towards a center.

Flower Pot Notes: Take a small pot and place a piece of floral foam in the bottom. I covered my foam with moss. You can use a dowel for the stem, I painted a 9” dowel. Glue the paper wheel to the top of the dowel and use the leaf patterns at the bottom of the paperwheel_template.jpg page to create your leafy nameplate.

I Heart Art: Baltimore - Meetup this Friday!

2011-02-22T15:06:00.001-05:00

The American Craft Council show is a gathering of more than 700 of the country’s top contemporary jewelry, clothing, furniture and home décor artists from across the country. Please stop by and meet members of Etsy, BEST, and MICA, for our second I Heart Art: Baltimore meetup. Get hands-on experience doing bookmaking with Julie from Etsy, building polymer clay with Jen Wilfong of YummyandCompany, and even make your own buttons! The event begins at 6PM, and admission after 6 is only $6 (normally $16)! For more information, visit the ACC’s website here.

In addition, don't forget to check out demos by BEST members Megan Van Wagoner and Janice Fowler. Megan will be leading Printing on Porcelain at 4pm, and Janice Fowler will be leading Metal Castings at 5pm. See you there!

March Papermaking Workshops in Hamilton

2011-02-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Learn how to make paper using flowers, seeds or scents. Handmade paper is great for use in collage prints, card making, painting and much more. Instruction is provided by local paper artist Nan Thompson. Easy to learn techniques provide instant results the first time!

Saturdays: March 12, 19, and 26. 10A-12P. $50
The Hamilton Gallery is located at 5502 Harford Rd in Baltimore, Maryland.

To register call 410-419-5033 or email brandybaker@gmail.com.

March Art Opening at Charmed Life Studio

2011-02-20T17:30:00.002-05:00

Charmed Life Studio is excited to present a Roland Dorsey Retrospective for the month of March. The show opens March 4th, 6:00PM till 10:00PM. This event is free and open to the public and features complimentary food and beverage. Live music will be provided by Trio De Jaz.

Charmed Life Studio is located at 4505 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214.

Totally Tutorials is Totally Awesome!

2011-02-15T17:00:00.000-05:00

Recently I came across a blog called Totally Tutorials. I fell in love instantly! If you love to craft and learn to make new things this is the perfect blog for you because author features great craft tutorials from all over the web.

And not to toot my own horn but TOOT TOOT, my How to Make Paper Towel Roll Flowers was featured today! I am completely honored and very excited to be in such great company.

…and all I got you were deez nuts

2011-02-11T16:13:00.004-05:00

Feeling squirrely since you still don't have a card or a gift for your Valentine? Not a problem, make your sweet heart a card, it's cheap and easy (much like me). Plus you have the extra added value of giving someone something "handmade." So if your wife complains that you never give her anything just tell her how you made this card with your own hands, you'll get some tail for sure.

To download one of deez nutty Valentine's just click here.

The card should be printed at 100% on letter sized (8.5 x 11) paper. Trim the card using the crop marks and fold in half. The final size is 4.25" x 5.5". I printed my sample on brown card stock to give it a little more XOXO. The cards will fit in a standard A2 (4-3/8" x 5-3/4"), however if you do not have an envelope handy you can refer to my Recycled Paper Envelope to create one.

No grenades here!

2011-02-10T17:30:00.000-05:00

Don't get into a "Situation" this V-day, have a card ready to go for your boo-boo. No need to waste valuable drinking money on a card, just download this awesome card by clicking here.

Shout out to my boo, Michele for designing a card with such good vibes (insert fist-pump here).

The card should be printed at 100% on letter sized (8.5 x 11) paper. Trim the card using the crop marks and fold in half. The final size is 4.25" x 5.5". I printed my sample on red card stock to give it a little more XOXO. The cards will fit in a standard A2 (4-3/8" x 5-3/4"), however if you do not have an envelope handy you can refer to my Recycled Paper Envelope to create one.

Crafting a Green World!

2011-02-10T14:04:00.003-05:00

My bottle cap magnet tutorial was featured on Crafting a Green World today, yeah!

Mmmm…hearts & brains

2011-02-09T17:13:00.005-05:00

Run for your life, it's Valentine's Day. Mmmmm…chocolates…mmmm…brains. Nothing is worse than an undead lover who is trying to eat your face off because you forgot to give them a Valentine's day card, so…load up that shot gun, stock up on perishables and click here to download a pdf of this horrific zombie Valentine's day card, it could just save your life!

The card should be printed at 100% on letter sized (8.5 x 11) paper. Trim the card using the crop marks and fold in half. The final size is 4.25" x 5.5". I printed my sample on mustard card stock to give it a little more undead lovin'. The cards will fit in a standard A2 (4-3/8" x 5-3/4"), however if you do not have an envelope handy you can refer to my Recycled Paper Envelope to create one.

Avast, Here lies me Valentine's card booty

2011-02-08T17:11:00.008-05:00

Ahoy, ye don't need to be visitin' Davy Jones' Locker for ye matey's Valentine's Day card. Just download th' card above me click'n here.

" T' card should be printed at 100% on letter sized (8.5 x 11) paper. Trim t' card usin' t' crop marks and fold in half. T' final size be 4.25" x 5.5". I printed me sample on tan chipboard card stock t' give it a little more XOXO. T' cards will fit in a standard A2 (4-3/8" x 5-3/4"), however if you do not have an envelope handy you can refer t' me Recycled "Fancy Scallywag" Paper Envelope t' create one."

I Pity the Fool Who Doesn't View this Post!

2011-02-07T17:18:00.008-05:00

Listen sucker, Valentine's Day is a week away! So my Valentine's gift to my few but loyal readers are free downloadable Valentine's Day cards all this week!

With no further ado, here is my first card freebie...it will definitely put you on the A-Team with your honey.

Click here to download a pdf of this card.

The card should be printed at 100% on letter sized (8.5 x 11) paper. Trim the card using the crop marks and fold in half. The final size is 4.25" x 5.5". I printed my sample on red card stock to give it a little more XOXO. The cards will fit in a standard A2 (4-3/8" x 5-3/4"), however if you do not have an envelope handy you can refer to my Recycled Paper Envelope to create one.

Pom Pom Package Topper Tutorial

2011-02-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

Being a child of the 70's insured two things… 1. I had white roller skates that I used every Friday night at Skateland and 2. those white roller skates were accessorized with handmade pom poms. I made pom poms in every color imaginable to match my outfit. What a Skateland fashionista right?

So you can imagine my joy when recently I received a present topped with a trio of wonderful handmade pom poms in lieu of the traditional bow! How freaking clever of my wonderful Secret Santa, Kristen to wrap such a cute present and put to good use the long forgotten (at least to me) craft of pom pom making. Not to mention her fore site to take an adolescent craft and make it all grown up.

Needless to say, I ran home, whipped out some left over yarn and resurrected my pom pom making skills. With Kristen's blessings I would like to share this clever gift topper idea with you.

Supplies:

Cardboard (can be from the recycled bin, old soda 12-pack or cereal boxes work great)
21 yards worsted weight yarn
Scissors

Download pompom.jpg and print it out full size (a scale has been placed on each jpg to help with printing at the correct proportions).
You will need two circles for the pom pom maker. Trace the circle template onto a piece of cardboard twice and cut them out.
Cut the wool yarn into ten 6 ft. lengths and one 3 ft. length.
Place the two rings together and take a length of the yarn. Holding one end of the yarn on the outside of the ring feed the other end through the center, round the back and though the front again. Keep wrapping the length of yarn until the entire piece is wrapped around the cardboard donut.
Repeat step 4 with the remaining pieces of yarn until the cardboard donut is covered.

Note: As you use the additional pieces of yarn you do not need to tie them together, simply make sure the ends of the yarn start and finish on the outside edge (trim the ends of the yarn if necessary).
When you are finished wrapping the yarn, carefully cut around the edges of the donut layer at a time. Your scissors should be cutting between the two pieces of cardboard eventually.

Note: Make sure to hold the donut of yarn firmly with one hand in the center so the yarn does not slide off.
Take the last length of 3 ft. yarn and slip it between the two pieces of card board, around all the strands of yarn and tie it together. Make sure the pom pom is firmly tied together.
Take your scissors and carefully cut a slit in the two cardboard rings avoiding any yarn. Remove the cardboard rings.
Trim the pom pom as necessary.

Special Delivery: Share Your Love 2011

2011-01-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

XOXO Valentine Card by LindasPaperie

Valentine's Day is coming up soon, and with it comes an opportunity to extend some love and kindness with a little help from Etsy. Etsy is continuing their yearly partnership with Citymeals-on-Wheels to bring nutritious meals, handmade greeting cards and companionship to elderly New Yorkers through the Special Delivery project.

If you would like to share the love you can make your own card, send vintage cards or if you don't have time to make cards, you can buy them and have them delivered to Etsy. I have taken the liberty to pick out a few Valentines you can purchase from local artist to make things a bit easier!

For more information visit the Etsy Storque.

FuzzyMug Mini Valentines - Set of 8 - School Style

Sweetie Pie Collection by Sugar Paperie

Recycled Bottle Cap Magnet Tutorial

2011-01-20T12:21:00.016-05:00

One of the great things about where I work is that I am surrounded by a group of very creative people who are very open with sharing their ideas. So to give credit where credit is due, the inspiration for this tutorial came from Susan from Sew Country Designs.

Supplies:
Recycled metal bottle cap
Recycled color magazine
Scissors
White Glue
1 Quarter
1” wide clear tape
Recycled magnet (free business card magnets or giveaways will work, if not you can buy magnets at craft stores)
Aleene’s Paper Glaze
E-6000 Adhesive
Ruler

Use the quarter to trace a circle around an image from the magazine. Take the tape and carefully place a piece over the circle.
Take a small piece from the cover (which is usually a heavier weight paper) and mount it to the back of the traced image with a light coating of glue. Trim out the image circle.
Glue the back of the circle and place it in the bottle cap. Place the quarter over the image to stop curling until it is completely dry.
Starting along the edge and moving in a circle, apply an ample amount of Aleene’s Paper Glaze. Continue around the circle, working your way around and inward until the image is coated.

Be careful not to shake or move the glaze too much because it will form bubbles. If bubbles form you can take a pin and carefully pop them. Your image will appear cloudy at first, however as the glaze dries it will become clear.
Cut a piece of magnet that will fit on the back of the bottle cap.
When your glaze is completely dry (I usually let it sit overnight to be sure), take the E-6000 adhesive and glue the magnet to the back of the bottle cap. Let it dry several hours before you use your magnets.

Recycled Gift Card Puff Pillow Tutorial

2011-01-04T10:37:00.028-05:00

More than a few gifts this year to friends and family were gift cards and although they possessed monetary value, I felt the enjoyment of receiving a wrapped gift box was somehow lost. So after purchasing several two dollar gift boxes just to put gift cards in I came up with a packaging idea that would cost next to nothing.

Supplies:

Recycled file folder or other cover weight paper from the recycle bin*
X-acto™ Knife or Scissors
White Glue
2 or 3 binder clips
Ruler
Printer
Pencil
Bone folder or butter knife

* I used a recycled folder in this tutorial, however any cover weight paper will work. Some suggestions are:

light weight cardboard from boxes and packaging
magazine covers
old paper back book covers

Download puffpillowtemplate.jpg and print it out full size (a scale has been placed on each jpg to help with printing at the correct proportions).
Cut out the template for A. Puff Pillow Body and B. End Fold Template. Using template A, trace the outside of the puff pillow on the file folder or cover weight paper. Make sure to lightly mark the fold lines. Cut out the body of the puff pillow.
Take template B and align it with one of the curved ends like you see in fig. 3. With a pencil lightly trace the fold line. Repeat this step on the remaining three rounded ends of the body.
Figure 4A shows a map of all the fold lines, using a bone folder or the wrong side of a butter knife, score the FOLD lines.**

** Scoring a piece adds a notch to the paper that makes it easier to fold. Place the ruler on the fold line and take the bone folder and run it along the length of the fold. If you do not have a bone folder you can use the back side (the un-serrated edge) of a butter knife. Do not press too hard, you do not want to rip or tear the paper.
Using A. Puff Pillow Body as a guide, apply glue to the flap of the puff pillow on the outside. The flap will be folded on the inside of the puff pillow. Use binder clips to hold the end together until the area is thoroughly dry.
To puff the pillow, take the ends and carefully work the scoring to fold them creating the pillow shape.

Optional decoration can be added by using scraps or pieces of recycled paper to spruce up the package. I used a scrap piece of wrapping paper, an old piece of sheet music and some raffia to add a little color and texture to my pillow. If you would like to use two pieces of paper like I did use the following measurements:

3.5” wide by 5.5” long for the outside piece
3” wide by 5.5” long for the inset piece

Etsy Blog

2010-12-22T10:59:00.003-05:00

So Christmas has come early for me this year, one of my tutorials is featured on the How-Tuesday edition of the Etsy blog! I'm in some fabulous company, so check out the great ideas.

How-Tuesday: Last Minute Packaging Round Up

Etsy's World of Crafts

2010-12-20T13:05:00.001-05:00

Trixie Little & Evil Hate Monkey Headband

2010-12-20T12:30:00.003-05:00

Saturday night we went to see the Holiday Burlesque show at the Creative Alliance. I am a big fan of Trixie Little and the Evil Hate Monkey. So to show my fan appreciation I whipped up a special Trixie/Monkey headband that I wanted to share with everyone.

Felt Flower Brooch How-to for under $10!

2010-11-23T11:33:00.023-05:00

I love getting catalogs in the mail, for me they are a poor man’s magazine. One of my favorite things it so sign up for catalogs from expensive stores, pick out an outfit or an item and try to find a cheaper version somewhere else to recreate the look.

Recently I got a catalog from Fossil. One of the photos showed a girl wearing a simple cardigan sweater and a cluster of oversize flower pins. All in all, the pins were not that expensive individually but if you wanted to wear the in a cluster of three it would cost you around $45, plus they weren’t even handmade! After looking at the catalog several times I decided to take a trip to the fabric store and see if I could come up with an alternative that I could make for less money.

For less than $10, I made three pins…making this project great for gift giving!

What you will need to make one large (approximately 4.5”) pin:
1/8 of a yard of 30” wool felt
Straight pins
Scissors
2.8 cm pin back
Sewing needle
Thread in matching color of wool
Ruler or measuring tape
Hot glue gun or fabric glue

Download feltflowerpattern.jpg and print it out full size (a scale has been placed on each jpg to help with printing at the correct proportions). Cut out the patterns.
Pin the 4.5” flower base pattern to one end of the felt and cut it out. Cut a strip of felt 30” long by 2” wide.
Snip the length of felt, creating a fringe effect. Make the cuts about a quarter of an inch away from the end. The individual snips should be between a quarter and three-eighths of an inch wide but they do not need to be perfect. The randomness of the size adds to the character of the flower.
Thread your needle with approximately 25” of double layered thread. Along the un-snipped edge, run a gather stitch the length of the fringe. Pull the gather as snug as it will go and tie off the end but do not cut off the excess thread.
Starting at the end with the needle and thread, roll the fringe around itself stay stitching the end to keep it in place (see Fig. 5A). After you have rolled the entire fringe upon itself and stitched to secure the shape, tie off and cut the excess thread (see Fig. 5B).
Glue the pin back to the center of the flower.
Cut out the heart shaped pin cover from the remaining felt* and glue it over the base of the pin back. This covers up any glue and helps to secure the pin further.

*NOTE: I used an alternate color just to jazz up the back but using a second color is not necessary
Apply an ample amount of glue the center back, sewn area of the flower and attach it to the pin base.
To finish flower fluff and separate the petals. Take the scissors and randomly snip and shape the ends of the petals so they are not all at a perfect squared angle.

Smaller Version: To make the smaller version of the flower pin, use the 3.25” base and on step #2 cut the long piece of fabric so it is 30” long by 1.5” wide instead of two.

Upcoming Shows

2010-11-19T11:33:00.003-05:00

Here is a list of upcoming shows:

Dec. 3rd
Trunk Show
6-9 p.m.
Kiss’n Make-up
827 W. 36th Street
Balto., MD 21211

Dec. 4th
Holiday Fair
Kiss’n Make-up booth
1 a.m. - 4 p.m.
5204 Roland Avenue
Balto., MD 21210

Dec. 5th
Merry Mart
Creative Alliance
11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Patterson
3134 Eastern Ave.
Balto., MD 21224

I Heart Art: Baltimore - This Friday!

2010-11-18T11:05:00.001-05:00

Don't forget about the meet-n-greet party on MICA campus this Friday, November 19, from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. ET. Food, drink, music and a craft activity will be included in the festivities taking place in Brown Center’s Leidy Atrium, 1301. W. Mount Royal Ave.

Come meet Vanessa and Morgan from Etsy and members of the Baltimore Etsy Street Team. There will be a raffle full of goodies from BEST artists, MICA, and Etsy, so get there early! And don't forget to bring your business cards!

Please RSVP by calling 410-225-2219 or e-mailing spcs@mica.edu. We can’t wait to see you at the party! For directions, please visit: www.mica.edu

Originally posted on Baltimore Etsy Street Team blog.