Creative Re-lease

The 10 things that have made parenting easier.

2010-08-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

1. www.meetup.com this is simply a site dedicated to helping people start groups of people that have similar interests. There are all sorts of groups all over the country. The important thing here is that there are a TON of mom's groups on this site. I have met some of the most wonderful people through my meetup group, Kids at Play!

2. My Sling. I was given a Maya Wrap for a baby shower present. The friend felt horrible for giving me a "used" gift but it was probably the best thing I received. It happened to be an extra large but that turned out for the best because it allowed extra coverage for nursing, which my younger guy thought should happen 24/7. This was also the only thing that worked for those few months where I had 2 munchkins that couldn't walk.

creepy how much this kid looks like Linus

3. The Soother. Find something that moves, lights up, plays music, and most importantly, is portable! Ours has lasted through both kids and two moves. It helped when we transitioned Lilly into her big girl bed. And it is like a trigger that lets them know it is time to sleep. It is also good for when you travel.

4. A really sturdy set of kid-friendly table and chairs. And I mean STURDY! This just seems to keep them better organized sometimes. I got the Mammut collection from Ikea and I am very happy with it.

5. Crayola WASHABLE crayons. Yes, there are two types and washable is the way to go. But these seriously come off of everything. I have also come to love the dry erase crayons as well. I pack those and one of those cheap little board from target for out trips to the grocery store.

6. Foam bath soap. It resembles shaving cream but for kids. It comes in a huge variety of colors. As far as consumable bath products go, this stuff is the best bang for the buck. Bath crayons and paint are more expensive and do not last as long. Bath time at our house is when I get to tidy up or read a magazine when they were younger. I love it, and this stuff keeps it going for longer. The other advantage is, they can not fight over foam, too squishy.

7. Those super cheap kiddie pools form wallys world. Yeah they are like 10 bucks a pop so you buy two and fill one with a little sand and the other with water and you have HOURS of play, seriously, hours.

Striderite

8. Kid's shoes without laces. Does this need an explanation. All I can say is that yes Chuck Taylor's for kids are super cute but really????

9. The Bumbo. Totally my vote for the best new baby "must-have" in the last 5 years. It is easy to clean, helps you get work done, and you can use it as a feeding chair when you go places. Totally worth the money.

10. About 5 different strollers. I am sorry, but there is not one stroller out there that can suit every situation. This is particularly true if you have two young kids. The consignment sales are the absolutely best place to go to find what you need but as of right now we have: A single umbrella ($15 walmart), A full sized Single ($25 consignment), a full sized double ($75 consignment and we have been through 2), and hopefully soon a jogging double. Each one is best for different places and having the right one is the difference between having fun and feeling out-of-control.

Nicole is the winner of the needlebook giveaway. Congrats!

Final Installment of the Craft tutorial!

2010-08-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Time to finish this sucker up. Let's review, you should have everything cut out, your cover decorated (if you so choose), and the center-most page ready for binding.

The middle page is as simple as doing nothing, or stitch around the edges for embellishment and some stabilization. This is the pink page in my pictures.

For the front and back cover:
Start off by making the the strap closure. Straight stitch the three layers together along the edges. I trimmed up the interfacing in the middle closer to the seams to give it a more polished look.On the end that looks the prettiest make a button hole for a button you have picked out or even a slit will do when you are using felt. (sorry forgot to take a pic of just this!)

I put down a piece to act as a strap to hold my scissors in place. I stitched the top and bottom of the purple piece, then placed it on the gray and stitch the side of the little holder.

Stitch just the top of the inner sheet of felt (gray in the picture) and place the outer piece of the cover (purple) and the interfacing together and stitch just the top of these two pieces together. Again this is to stabilize the pocket opening which is at the top.

Time to make a sandwich. Lay down the inside piece (gray) then position the non-buttonholed end of the strap on top. I put mine about 1/3 of the way down. Position it so that when you stitch down the side it will stitch the strap into place. Finally lay the decorated cover on top of it all. Stick a few pins in it all and stitch down the two sides and the bottom. All done with the pages!

Stack the three pages on top of each other. I know this step sounds silly.... but make sure the opening on the outer (bottom) page is at the top and the inside page is to the sides. Seriously. This is why the color of my cover changed (DUH).

Stick a pin or two in the sandwich and run it through your sewing machine down the middle. Slow and steady is the way to go here.

Finish it up by determining where your button should go. I stuffed mine full of the things I wanted it to hold and then marked a spot on the cover with a chalk pencil where the button would be best. Then just stitch the button on. You can reach into the pocket to sew it on so you do not need to stitch through the inside material (gray in the pic). You have yourself a rather handy and super cute needlebook!

Ok, really, all you have to do is leave a comment to be entered to win one of these guys for yourself. In this post let me know what you would add to this design. You can also comment on the two previous posts for more chances to win. I will randomly choose a winner Friday (August 13th, creeeeeepy). Good luck and enjoy making one of your own if you do not win!

Tutorial Part II and a Giveaway!

2010-08-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Let's just dive right in! I am going to start from the inside of the book and work my way out. For the innermost page you will need:

7" x 5" interfacing (white in picture)
7" x 5" felt for outside of page (purple)
7" x 5" felt for inside of page (gray)
(2) 5" x 1" felt for embellishment (purple)

I designed this page to hold floss bobbins. It has 6 pockets that open on the side of the book.

Start off by stitching down both 7" sides of the inside of the page (gray in the picture) Do not stitch the top and bottom yet. This stitching is just to give the pocket some structure. I used a decorative stitch, but even a plain ole' zig zag will help keep the pocket from stretching out.

Pin the interfacing on top of the outer part of the page (purple). Stitch down the 7" sides of the page.

Now, make a page sandwich. it should go like this:
Purple
Interfacing
Gray

Stitch the top and bottom of the sandwich (along the 5" sides)

Pin the purple embellishment stripes down at 2 1/4" and the 4 3/4" on top of the gray.

Stitch through the center of both purple stripes, parallel to the top and bottom. This should divide the page into three "tubes." Taaaa daaaaaa, pour yourself another glass of cab and let's move on to page # 2...... ok I lied tomorrow we tackle page 2. While you are stitching do not forget to leave a comment here (and on my previous post regarding this tutorial) to enter for a chance to win one of these made for you, hopefully with no wine stains. On this comment let me know what tool you use the most for stitching or embroidery. Every day of the tutorial is another opportunity to enter to win!

Tutorial Part I and a Giveaway!

2010-08-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

So I spent my next-to-the-last free weekend before classes start back up again perfecting a needle book. I am guessing that is the best thing to call this. Basically I wanted something to stash most all of my embroidery supplies. Here is what it looks like:

It measures about 3 1/2 by 7 with enough pockets that I haven't been able to fill them yet. For the record... this is evolution number three of this project, I am not so much of a pre-planner, but more of a trial and error with "I wish I would've...." moments kinda person. So for the smart ones out there who like measurements and step by step instructions, I took measurements, and get this, pictures. Lets begin. shall we?

The overview:
The book has a cover and two internal pages, which means three flat pieces with a seam down the middle. I used regular craft felt, but you are more than welcomed to use nicer felt. I think craft felt works well when used with interfacing. I am also a big fan of the more instant gratification of crafts felt being available in town. I used my machine to stitch most of this, with the exception of the pink stitching.

Materials needed:
5 sheets of craft felt (9x12 in.) *you can get by with less is you want less color variability*
Thread
Button (yes, I am partial to vintage here)
The items you want the book to contain

Cut list:
(3) 7"x7" pieces for the outside cove, one of heavyweight interfacing
(1) 7"x6" piece for middle page
(3) 7"x5" pieces for the center page, one of heavyweight interfacing
(2) 5"x1" pieces to embellish center page
(6) 1 1/2"x3 1/2" pieces for strap closure, two of heavyweight interfacing
(3) 1 1/2x2 1/4 pieces for scissors holder (not shown in above pic), one of interfacing

The pages are designed for the things I like to keep. If there is a tool you want included then start thinking now how you want to stash it on the front cover page, because there is room there. If you want to adapt this for needle felting or some other fun craft then just try to plan as much as possible ahead of time. It really is easy if you think ahead (unlike me). Take the chance now to decorate the cover in whatever manner you see fit. I hand-cut a leaf motif, but I am sure you can think of something better.

While you are deciding how to decorate your cover leave a comment here to enter a drawing to win one of these needle books made be yours truly. In your comment just let me know what colors you think would look best for you. I will pick a winner by random drawing on Friday, August 13th (creepy, I know). This tutorial will be in three parts, which means that you have 3 chances to enter. Stay tuned!

finally friday!

2010-08-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

I do enjoy my Fridays. On today's agenda, a vintage Better Homes embroidery kit that I picked up off of etsy. It is going to be something of a surprise as to what it comes out as. It says something about a pillow case or chair cover but I am going to see if I can work it into a skirt. If I am successful I will post pictures. If I am not, we will pretend I never spoke of this....

I think this is what I look like on Fridays too... soo excited I can't smile without looking like a cheeseball.

I will post something yummy this weekend.

A sense of accomplishment

2010-08-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

Finally I have started a project and actually finished it. I know, a gold star for me right. It has been hard juggling working extra hours and doing the things a home maker should. I have just a couple of weeks until I am also back to school full time so I feel this rushed push to start a big project before it is too late. I am not working well under this pressure. Last night I finally sat down started a project AND finished it. It was something small but it is done.

I put this adorable little monster on a plain white tee that I had and didn't really like. The monster is clip art from a free digital scrapbooking kit from Craftastical. The direct link to her post with this kit is here. I really love her blog. Here is the basic how-to on this. I sized the clip are to what I wanted and printed it out.

I then traced the image using a light box (a window also works) and these iron transfer pencils:

I have to say Generals Transfer Pencils are easy to work with. This is what I came up with after tracing:

I just put it down on my shirt and hit it with a hot iron. It was easy because the image was pretty much small enough that it would fit under my iron but you might want to think about pinning it down if you will have to move your iron. After it was transferred I just began stitching using 3-ply floss and a hoop. Mostly back stitch, nothing fancy. You can find some good basic instructions here at Sublime Stitching. Anyways, this is a close up of the finished product:

Sorry my pictures have been cruddy. I updated my droid to the new Froyo OS and now my Vignette app is not focusing right. It is my fault for letting hubby install it before Verizon says it is time. I think he has more fun playing with my phone than I have! I leave you with a picture of a little buddy I found outside with the kids this evening.

Hubby wanted to keep him but I resisted. I was sure he would go the same way as the sea monkeys....

Things a Mother and Daughter Should Share

2010-08-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

I believe that my top choice on this list is now Manic Panic in Rose Red. I picked up a jar when I recently had a serious dye job and keratin straightening.

I just touched up my roots and pulled the color through my hair to liven it up a bit. This is my opinion on the Keratin straightening. From my understanding the straightening was really just them filling in the texture in the strands of my hair with protein. It has been a couple of months since I had it done and I have to say I am generally pleased with my decision to shell out that much mulah at my local Ulta salon (I had a coupon but it was still expensive). It is not the all-natural miracle they claim it to be. It is stinky and made my face itch some but it completely changed the texture of my hair. In the stance of full disclosure I did not have super curly hair to begin with. I did have frizzy semi-curly hair that usually is very reactive to humidity. The biggest compliment I can say is that I have been able to wear straight bangs through July in the south. My hair dries quickly and is easier to style. I wear it down more than usual so hubby is pleased. It is wearing off some but I think I like it better now anyways. When it was first done my hair was too straight and I had to figure out how to add curls and body (a new challenge for me).


See... waaaayyy too straight!

Now it is easy to deal with and my bangs are better trained. I can just blow dry and go in like 10 minutes! woo hoo!


Me trying on glasses to help my buddy Stinky choose :)

Should you do it? Not if you have super curly hair and are expecting a drastic change that lasts. If you just want to make it easier to style and eliminate frizz then yup. I think it might just be a summertime thing for me!

Crafter's Block

2010-08-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

I have been in something of a crafting slump. Yesterday I tried to make a few hair bows for Lillian. This is something that should be easy and relaxing for me. Nope, they all sucked. Bleh. I think I am going to blame this on my house being too clean to foster creativity. You see, we had people over this weekend for sushi night so I made sure the house was pretty darn clean, which is pretty unusual for me to be honest. Now all of my wonderful crafting juju is all too sterile. I cannot decide on what project to start and everything I have touched has turned to crap the last few days. I am boycotting my hot glue gun.

Any tips?

Work, Work, and Work!

2010-07-29T05:08:00.000-07:00

We had picture day at work yesterday :) I have only gotten to one picture with photoshop so far but here it is:

From left to right: Mr. Sheetz, Dr. Ciampa, Nicole, Tracey, Caitlyn, Me, Ashley, and Claudia!

I have some waaaaayyyy cooler ones coming along shortly! You never would have guessed but editing photos from an eye clinic means that you have to remove a ton of glare from glasses. Anyone have a trick for this?

2010-07-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

While putzing around on Kruler this morning this was my favorite:

I would love to make a dress for myself out of these colors! I have really been crushing on purples with grey recently. I think I might try to do my next piece with colors like these. The only catch is that it is hard for me to use grey when I paint. It usually ends up looking very muddy. Sounds like a fun challenge! It will probably have to wait until the weekend. Friday is Sushi night here so there are preparations to be made. Today is picture day at work. I am thinking that this means that tomorrow I might be able to swing working from home to get the pictures up on the website *crosses fingers* I would love to be able to spend a whole day in my PJ's right now. That is something I miss about being a stay at home mom. I hope everyone has a good day.

P.S. Send good thoughts to my buddy Ericka today :)

4th Friday Downtown

2010-07-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

On the 4th Friday every month the Fayetteville Downtown Arts Council puts on this little event where the business downtown open their door for later hours and various artist and artisans sell their goods or just get their face out there. This is one of my favorite things here in Fayetteville. In the past it has just been a great free event to pack up the humungo double stroller and let the kids do something different. This month the Feral Arts Collective I am a part of put on a display. We had a blast and I even finished a piece I am extremely happy with :) Here are the pics from the event. I was soo busy working that I was unable to take pictures so these were all hijacked from Christina Cole, a photographer extraordinaire and a fellow Feral Artist.

Our Booth. Thanks Alyssa for our super cool sign!

Progression through the evening. I usually like to work with encaustic (fancy word for colored wax) but I was afraid it would melt in the heat. It was refreshing to have to change the way I usually work

Then there was this guy......

Finally, here is the finished piece:

Well I am going to be late to work. Until next time!

So Busy!

2010-07-23T05:37:00.000-07:00

I have been crazy obsessed with the battle of the fleas around here. We have two indoor cats (Turbo and Swiffer) and the got out and brought back a few fleas with them. Silly me wanted to avoid chemicals and tried a more natural flea treatment. HOLY COW THAT WAS STUPID!!! That gave the fleas just enough time to start a family so for the last week or so we have been breaking out the big guns. It really had not gotten that bad but it was coming and I wanted to nip it in the bud. So there were lots of chemicals and steam cleaning the carpets.... yadda, yadda, yadda... Oh well. I have a demonstration (no clue what to do!) and showing tonight at the local 4th Friday festival here in Fayetteville. It would be awesome to sell a few pieces. So I need to plan what to do, in the meantime, here are some pictures from the last few weeks:

Watching the World cup and drinking an assortment of beer. What a crazy dirty game!

They look like they are playing so nicely....

Silly kitty in the fireworks box. An albino (maybe?) moth thingy I found outside of work.

Lillian's first real bike and the beach!

Well that's is what I have been up to for the most part. I have still been reading everyone's blogs and I am so envious you have been finding time to do some fun and crazy stuff. Until next time!

I love me some summertime

2010-06-14T17:11:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that even though the temperature has been hitting triple digits the last few days, I really love summertime. One of the biggest reasons:

This is my absolute fav drink. It is a strawberry smoothie spiked with Limoncello. I make it with fresh strawberries, ice, a smidge of sugar, and a ton of the booze. This is Limoncello:

The yummieness is astounding. It is very refreshing. Here is how hubby prefers to drink it....

Hee hee heee... Nothing crafty tonight but I have some pics from the mural the Feral Art Collective did. Until then!

Oy Vey!

2010-06-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

It has been crazy up in the hizhouze... ok seriously we have been busy. I realized that if I could not find the time to post this weekend then I would probably never post again. Well I am really enjoying the whole blog world. While I have not been posting like I should I have been reading blogs which lately has been my wind-down time at night. Well let's start on how I was creative this weekend:

This is a super girlie skirt for Lillian. The fabric is vintage that I picked up on my trip in Max Meadows, VA. I didn't use a pattern (which yet again I should have) mainly because there really was not much fabric to work with. The skirt is basically two hemmed separate layers with the elastic only going through the inside layer. Here is what worked:

The waist is exactly the right size and it'll be able to grow with her
The two layers of skirt make this look way less homemade (or like I was drinking)
The length is fine now but will be super cute when she sprouts up in a few months

And what didn't work:

With all of the layers and the elastic going through just the inside channel (so I could get that extra ruffle) I had a rough time figuring out the order in which everything should have been sewn. Like the side seam, the elastic channel, and the hem. I made a few big oops!
I did not realize that when this was all ruffled the outside layer would go down like that. I would have sewn the side seam together pressing it down, instead of up, if I had known.

Well we live and we learn! My next project is a little gray suiting dress for me :) I have no idea when that will happen! The biggest project I am working on is Feral Art Live from the Rockshop. That link will send yo to our live feed. It is pretty cool, basically for the next few nights you can watch artists working live on one BIG mural. There are about 20 of us so it is an adventure! I have laid down some plaster, but I think I might put some ink down tonight when I swing by. Tomorrow is probably going to be the evening I get to do the most work. Well enough for now. I will post a few more times this week just to make up for being away for awhile!

I know just enough to get myself in trouble

2010-05-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

Well another project completed:

On the pattern it looks more like a cute bowling bag-like purse but because I messed up somewhere (still trying to figure that one out) it is a little squatty looking. Oh well.. It is still a super functional purse that doesn't look 1/2 bad.

Everything always looks better if you throw a filter over the photo :) Here is what I learned from this project:

I need to do a MUCH better job of transferring those funny little markings from the pattern to the fabric
My sewing machine is not a fan of 12 layers of fabric especially when 4 of those are faux leather
If you have really cool one-of-a-kind vintage fabric wait to use it on a pattern you have made before and you know you love
I need to refresher course in sewing!

Here is a close up of the fabric I picked up during this trip:

It was a table runner I believe but there was only about 1/3 yard to work with. I am still happy with how much I got done in 36 hours (without an all nighter!) Next up is a gray striped dress that I will work on this week.

On the home front, today was an awesome day. Shopping, Chick-fil-a, and the park were all included! Here is a pic of the new "Bubble Generator"

The inventor of this toy is my new hero! Tomorrow is a cookout and cleaning around the house!

taaaaa daaaa.....

2010-05-20T17:26:00.000-07:00

Check out the prowess of the new sewing machine :) Okay, maybe this dress does not fit amazingly well or is that impressive but still. I really wore it to work today! woo hoo *pats back* Ok enough about that... now the pros and cons of my new machine so far:

PROS:

Even though it has a fancy digital screen it is still a basic Singer at heart, meaning all of the stuff I have learned about sewing still applies
Didn't have a single problem with tangling or tension
I can stitch little doggies if I so choose

CONS:

I know I was probably going VERY slow but if you go too slow on the pedal it stops and you have to completely lift your foot off to get it to start again.

This is a recap of out evening:

Why so Serious?

No sewing tonight. I stayed up waaaay too late last night finishing that dress. Tomorrow I will get to another project :)

Oh... P.S. that was See & Sew pattern B 5339, Fabric was a cotton from Joann's

New Sewing Machine!!!

2010-05-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

Holy cow it has been a bit since I have gotten a chance to blog! I have been doing something creative almost everyday but NOTHING is finished or turning out how I would like. But, the biggest reason nothing is finished is because I have been mostly cutting out patterns for sewing (which I am out of practice on) I am super excited because my brand new sewing machine is coming in the mail today! (Why doesn't work offer new toy days of leave?) I decided on the Singer 7470 Confidence. Taaaaaa Daaaa....

Here was my thought process on that:

I wanted something digital (because I suck at tension setting and the likes)
I wanted to go ahead and spend a bit of money
I was going to get a viking Emerald model but the SUPER helpful local shop said that Singer makes Viking and the lower end Viking models are not all that amazing.
I didn't just want to pay for the name brand
This guy had great reviews
What a sale! I love saving a buck :)

Well tracking says it will be here today. Yippie... but this is me at work today I am sure:

From XKCD

Here is a peek at the first thing I plan on making on my new baby:

Well time to go work for the man. I am sure I will be burning the midnight oil playing with my new sewing machine and hopefully have something more to show you tomorrow!

A skirt for Lilly

2010-05-09T16:41:00.000-07:00

I finally got a chance to finish up a wrap skirt I was working on. A few weeks ago we were at the Dogwood festival here and one of the vendors had these really chic wrap skirts. She wanted $40 for them and the quality was not great so I figured I could make one myself. They were one side with contrasting waistbands and she had stenciled poppies or whatever on the outer flap. I had this faux leather stuff here for a purse project that I had misplaced the pattern to so I said "why the hell not" and used the leather-ish stuff.

I cut a skirt for myself and then also a skirt for Lillian. (yes, she was the guinea pig!) All it was is a rectangle with rounded bottom corners. I then attached a long tie piece that was a stretchy knit. This worked to keep it up as a waist band. I am not thrilled with this pattern for her skirt I might change it, what do you think?

I used bias tape around the edges because my machine (nor I) had any desire to try to hem the thick leather-y stuff. I made some felt flowers and topped them off with vintage buttons.Oh a HUGE thanks to Angry Chicken for the bias tape tutorial found HERE.

Now, I am sure you are asking yourself, what about the big skirt... Well the answer is that it is going to be that purse after all. I found the pattern and my skirt just looked like crap on me because the material was too heavy. I knew that was going to be the case but I tried it anyways! Have you ever started a project and used the wrong material but you thought it would work out in the end because you really wanted it to? Oh Well! Lilly has a cute skirt and I have learned my lesson... for now. If you have any questions about the specifics just let me know! Oh, almost forgot (how could I?) the felt flowers were inspired by Princess Lasertron!

antique adventures

2010-05-04T05:34:00.000-07:00

While I was in Wytheville I stopped off at Snoopes Antique mall and a few others. This place was awesome! I have a confession here, I have a love-hate relationship with shopping for antiques. I LOVE it but... I am allergic to rodent pee. Funny, right? So I avoid areas with books and the such but by the end of the trip I was hitting the benadryl hard. Anyways here are some pics:

Sadly, I didn't get Mr. Robot there because he was a little costly. I did however pick up some buttons, baubles, and really cute fabric that you will see pop up here shortly. I almost broke down and bought a library card cabinet, but it was a little smaller than I wanted. I am holding out for a HUGE one (in my dreams, right?) What is your dream antique find?

productive day!

2010-05-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

I got so very much done today and it rocked! I was able to clean up my studio some and I uncovered my sewing machine. I have been stashing away some of my old shirts from before I had babies (mostly tube tops) I finally made the effort and turned them into dresses for Lillian today. The before of the fist (and my absolute fav):

This one had a zipper up the back. I took the zipper out and closed the seam. Then I folded the top down and added elastic in the back. The original shirt was from Charlotte Russe. Here are the after shots:

Yes, we had to bribe her with chocolate morsels to get her to actually try the dress on. She seriously is not supportive of me making waaaaaay cute stuff for her!

Here is the back of the dress.

I measured her bust and then subtracted the size of the front 1/2 of the shirt. I then cut a piece of elastic to go the rest of the way around her bust measurement. This was a pretty easy solution because it wasn't major sewing. The good part is that it was tight enough I didn't need to make straps. I can also make it bigger by just replacing the elastic. After I finished this one I worked on another tube top. This one I changed up quite a bit, but I think it still needs some ribbon or something. It is not finished:

It was just a straight across tube top (sorry no real before pics) so I cut down into it for a neckline and cut the sides for sleeves. It was easier than I thought. I turned the raw edges under and viola'. I used one of her current dresses to figure out how big to cut everything. Ask any questions in the comment section!

Well, what could top a day of getting to play? A night of fun art stuff! I met up with the other artists in the Feral Arts Collective. We have some really cool shows in the works! I will post more on that later.

The real work week starts tomorrow. Oy Vey! I hope everyone found an excuse to be creative this weekend!

project gone haywire!

2010-05-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Last week I got a new case for my Motorola Droid. It is pretty awesome in all of it's hot pink goodness but I thought it needed a little more, ya know? Well I broke out the Shiva paintsticks and this awesome robot stencil I had and went to work:

I chose Shiva Paintstiks because they are actually oil based but easy to work with and good for stencils. I thought they would work on my non-porous phone cover. This is what it looked like right after I was done:

Way cool right? I let it dry for 24 hours like the package said. I am not patient but I resisted the urge to touch it! My daughter got a hold of it and smudged it but I was able to easily clean it up with a little olive oil on a fine point q-tip. After it was dry I used a paint pen to outline it in black. This is it after a week of use:

ARG!!!!! does anyone know what would be the best medium to use on my rubbery Droid cover? Help I have an unreasonable desire to make this look like my own but I can't seem to find the follow through! Comment below if you have an idea to make this work. I will try all suggestions and post my updates here!

Oh, FYI the stencil is out of the book Stencil Me In by Marthe Le Van (one of those I had a 40% off coupon but only needed $2 notions so I picked this up lol)

Wytheville, VA

2010-04-29T11:20:00.001-07:00

I <3 old buildings

At a Funeral

Why does the word funeral start with "fun". Sorry bad humor! I am at a funeral but not for someone I was close to. It is still a sad place. Anyways I hope everyone is having a great week! I wenk antique shopping yesterday so pics to come.

On the Road

2010-04-28T09:23:00.001-07:00

Well we have hit the road and are heading to the western part of Virginia. I am excited for the mountians to start poping up here soon. We might even go whit water rafting, who knows? The kiddos are doing well on the drive (thanks to the dramamine for Lilly's car sickness) anyways, better pictures to come, for now.... my feet!

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial Part 2

2010-04-26T15:44:00.000-07:00

Now it is on to the actual assembling of the headband. You do have some options as far as the headband base. At a craft store you can find "blank" headbands in all sorts of widths. I like these thin metal ones that I found at a grocery store of all places. The nice part about these is that you can leave them plain so the band blends in more so the headband looks like one of those little hats. Here is the basics of what you need:

For this particular headband I used some wide ribbon and folded it in 1/2. I then stitched up the side of the ribbon to form a pocket.

I slid the headband into the pocket. To finish off the ends I wrapped embroidery floss around the bottom very tightly.

All that is left is to glue the flowers on the headband using a little hot glue. There are no hard or fast rules on this!

As far as toppings go, use anything you have stashed away. On this headband I used a typerwritte key. Here are some other items that work well:

On the original headband, I used thin ribbon and I wrapped it around in a spiral. I put a dot of glue periodically to help the ribbon stay in place.

Here is an example of a teal and brown headband I made using buttons and trim. I left the headband plain except for some alcohol ink to turn it brown.

I think this is becoming an addiction! I did get my supplies organized last night. The sight of this just makes me smile!

As always any questions, shoot me a comment!

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial Part 1

2010-04-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

As promised in this post, I have made a few zipper rosettes and taken a ton of pictures. This post will explain how to make the individual flowers, and my next post will tell you how to out it all together to make a headband. I saw an adorable rendition of this headband by Taza, and I was inspired! I just so happen to have a ton of zippers from my Nana, many vintage.

When shopping for zippers for the rosette you should go with various lengths. You should also look for zippers made out as natural of fibers as possible. The ones with real twill sides definitely work the best but we can work with anything. I also had some with exposed metal teeth and these come out with so much texture. Anyways after you have selected your zipper it is time to deconstruct.

You have 2 choices, cut off the bottom of the sipper or remove this little metal piece with pliers. I typically try to do this because it makes for a more finished end and gives you more length to work with.

Now you have your zipper in 3 pieces. (I am saving the little metal doo-dads for another project)

Next you plan out which end of the zipper is going to be the middle of your flower. I like to use the end that has the prettiest metal piece as the center of the flower. Tie a know at the end of your thread, I like to double up my thread for this type of stuff. Start at the end that will be on the outside and do a running stitch (up down up down) until you reach what will be the center of the flower. Keep the stitches pretty close to the non teeth edge. These stitches do not have to be perfect!

When you get to the end that will be the center do just one stitch towards the zipper part. This will help the flower look more finished.

Next, pull the thread and push the zipper down towards the knot. This is where practice helps. You don't want to have the zipper completely curly but at the same time you don't want it too straight. The more slack you have the flatter your flower will sit. The tighter the thread the more funky the flower will look but it will be harder to put together.After you get the tension you want, tie a know but do not cut your thread.

If you are using a shorter zipper (less than 10 inches or so) just hold the center and wind your flower up the way you want it to look. Make sure your needle is on the bottom side, then make a few stitches that span the whole radius of the rosette and pick up a piece of each layer. I would do this two or three times in different directions.

If you are using a longer zipper you just start at the center and go around one layer at a time. As you go around make a stitch here or there that tacks the new layer in place on the old layer. With longer zippers, it is important that you push the zipper material up towards where you are working, or you will get to the last 3 inches of the zipper and it will be a super curly mess. you want the ruffles to be as evenly spaced as possible.

Play around with both tension and irregularity. I think they look better the less round they are.

If you have any questions just shoot me a comment!

Spring Cleaning

2010-04-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hubby has been on travel for a little while but now he is home and it is time to get cracking. I will admit that we have a brown thumb and when he is gone I don't take care of the yard as I should. This is evident by the picture of our back yard:

Ok luckily we have nice tall fences so our neighbors don't know that we are probably the cause of the neighborhood dandelion epidemic. The font yard looks great but it is just a nightmare in the back. Did you know if you let dandelions grow for awhile they turn very tree-like:

SCARY! Well I snuck in a nap today so after Thing 1 and Thing 2 are in bed I am planning on cranking out some zipper headbands. My co-workers have been asking for some and I think it would be something for office morale! As I work on them tonight I will take pics and post a tutorial. Have a good one!

The show was AWESOME!!!

2010-04-19T17:39:00.001-07:00

It was a surreal experience. There was mad hatter punch and lots of goodies. The Fayetteville Museum of Art put on a great show thanks to the Feral Arts Collective. I tried to get my costume on but that was a whole different blog post on my adventures of buying a dress. (soon to come) Well enough Said here are some pictures (Thanks to Christina Cole for the pics!):

The super cute place settings

That is my table in the top left :) Me, hubby, tall buddy Ericka, and my two awesome bosses! I have some really supportive people in my life that ROCK!

It was a really wired thing to listen in on people looking at my art...

My Pieces:

Taking a Break

2010-04-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ugh I needed to take a break from pretending to be a serious artist. I can only think deep and put so much expression into an object before my head explodes. So I made this:

I have been coveting headbands like this with the little zipper rosettes for awhile. I just so happen to have a HUGE bag of vintage zippers that were given to me out of my Nana's stash. I think I got my stash addiction from my Nana. I have fond memories of falling to sleep with her sewing in the same room. Anyways, here is a picture of the details.

On an exciting note... My hubby bought me a new Motorola Droid! I have been hinting that I really want one for the past few months. It should come in the mail in the next day or two. Yippie

Long time no see...

2010-04-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yes I know, I have been a very bad blogger. I went back to work full time so I had to drop some of my digital scrapbooking commitments. This does make me sad but I have to admit I am excited to be back in the workforce. Through a series of exciting events (one of which involved shots of Limoncello) I stumbled upon my job as an assistant to an optician. Basically, I now make and sell glasses. It is a great job and I am happy to be there.

On the art front, I am super duper excited because I am doing my very first big-girl art show in a real Museum. On Saturday April, 17th the Fayetteville Museum of Art is doing a fundraiser in the theme of Alice in Wonderland.

The daytime events are all kid friendly and look like a ton of fun. That night there is an adult costume party and that is where local artist with the Feral Arts Collective are being featured. I am excited to be included in this group of funky people. This show is a big step for me. My goal is to prove to myself and other people that the line between crafter and artist can be blurred. This being said I still believe it takes a certain person, talent, and motivation to create art. Why can't someone create art even if they are unable to commit to the lifestyle of being an artist? Well enough on my soapbox, we will just see how the show goes! Here are some preview pics of the pieces I am putting in the show:

I will post a ton of pictures from the event. I am really excited, I just have no idea what to wear....

Unlocked Autumn Freebie

2009-09-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

I finally got a chance to finish a layout I has started with "Unlocked Autumn"! Man there is a ton of stuff going on and I guess MLAS being down kinda bumped digiscrapping to the back. It doesn't help that I have gotten a few chances lately to get my hands on some paper and that has been really fun :) But I am back in front of the monitor and ready to go. So look for more updates over the next few weeks or so! Anyways here is my layout using ad77design's "Unlocked Autumn" kit!

I made this layout into a quickpage for you! Just click on the image!

That's all I have for now. I am really hoping to take some pictures of stuff I have been working on in the paper world and post that up here.... So much to do so little time!

Finally some pictures!

2009-09-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

I took a few pictures of some name tags that I made for the Organizer and Assistant Organizers of the Mom's Group I work with. I tried to find something cute that everyone would like. I think they are girly but not too frilly or pink. I hope they like them!

Paper is Basic Grey, Letter stamps are Close to My Heart, Letter die cuts are Quickutz, Flowers are Prima, Ink is Ranger

MLAS is Back and I have freebie for you!

2009-09-21T05:45:00.000-07:00

Finally MLAS is back up and running. I have a ton of work to do on challenges. I am not sure if I will get them all done because I am working really hard on a Halloween party for the Mom's group I am an assistant Organizer for. It is also an excuse to break out some paper supplies. Anyways, RebeccaPSP has a great new kit out called Decadence. Just click on the image or HERE to go to the store. Right now it is just $2.50!

This was a really fun kit to work with! It is pretty and grungy all in one. I think it would be awesome for a wedding album... especially mine! Well I got a layout and a quickpage for you from this kit. First up, the layout:

I'm not going to lie... I did this while watching the show "Glee" I guess it is just that inspiring lol! And finally, a quickpage! Just click on the image to go to the download!

Unlocked Autumn

2009-09-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

ad77designs has put out a great new kit named "Unlocked Autumn"

Since MLAS is down for a few more days it seems you should go to Scrapbird to snag this kit! There is a special going on now where you get the kit and the matching overlays for $3.29 which is great! I love all the funky dots in this kit. I am finally back home for awhile! I am not driving anywhere outside my city limits until Thanksgiving!!! Today is a busy day but if I get a chance tonight I am going to rock out with this kit and post some layouts for you guys! I have also done some layouts for RebeccaPSP's new kit but it is waiting on MLAS to be back up for release. My goal is to post 5 layouts on my blog by the end of the week....

ANother Freebie From Rebecca but no MLAS yet

2009-09-10T05:40:00.000-07:00

Well My Life and Scrap is still down thanks to some chuckleheads at our old hosting server holding the files hostage basically. I am going through some withdraw. RebeccaPSP is helping out a bit by putting out one of her older kits as a freebie over on her blog. Just click HERE or on the image to go to her blog and snag Tuliping!

RebeccaPSP has some Freebies for you!

2009-09-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

RebeccaPSP has posted two of her kits as freebies on her blog!

Stark is really a fun kit to work with! I like to add overlays and color to match my photos. Anyways hopefully this will hold us over while they work on My Life and Scrap. We just had to blow up the server over a holiday weekend. Oh Well. I have completed 2 1/2 layouts in my traditional scrapbook which is cool. I might post pics later when I get the drivers for my new camera installed. Until Next Time!!

Ahhh A Scrapper Without a Home!!

2009-09-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

My life and Scrap is down for the count!!!! Hopefully that count is only 48 hours. I guess we blew the server up (woot woot) so MLAS is moving to a bigger server. Until then I am alone lol! I would love for it will be up and running tomorrow night when I am home with only one kiddo :) I plan on getting some scrapping done. I HAVE to do some CT work! I also would like to do some traditional paper stuff also ;) Well until next time!

Autumn Whispers

2009-09-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

RebeccaPSP has a great new kit out! It is called "Autumn Whispers" I really love the great fall colors!

I really love the pop of fresh greens in this kit, it really adds something different! Anyways, it is available at My Life and Scrap. Hurry it is 50% off this week only!!

Here is my Layout :)

Well it has been a very crazy few weeks. I have driven more than 2000 miles!!! Most of which with at least one kiddo in the car! There has just been an illness in my family :( Well to make lemonade out of lemons I was able to go hang out with a good art friend I haven't seen in a LONG time in the process of my travels. We went stamp and paper shopping. This has spurred an urge to get my hands on some paper and do a few traditional pages. I think I will when I get back home in a few days. I am also going to be attending the Heritage stamp show in Greenville, SC next weekend!! I have a pile of ATC's that would love a new home!! I miss the smell of Stazon.....

A New Release!!!

2009-08-22T10:40:00.001-07:00

Rebecca PSP has come out with another AWESOME kit this month! It is called Fall-ing For U. I really love the richness of this kit. The blues are just amazing!! Great colors and neat textures. You can find this kit HERE at My Life and Scrap. It is 50% off all this week so snag it now!!!!

A good start

2009-08-20T07:08:00.000-07:00

I was a good girl last night and did a bunch of housework while watching the Octomom special so I woke up to a clean house :) This means that I spent all morning scrapping of course!!! I finished up a layout for the font challenge at My Life and Scrap (capturing Life's Memories in Pixels). This month you could pick ANY handwritten font to use! I used CK Ali's Hand (but I think it has since changed names to CK Classic) I know I got it for free a really long time ago but I couldn't find the download link to share :"( Anyways, here is my layout!

Kit is the August Mega Collab "Summer's Last Sunset" from MLAS
I used the Smooth Ink action by Atomic Cupcake (anybody know where their freebies have gone???)

Well it looks like I am hitting the road once again for a week or so. Hopefully I will still get a chance to scrap and post! I must conquer the mini-laptop lol :) Well have a nice day everyone!

Hybrid Fun!!!

2009-08-19T17:59:00.000-07:00

Well I had some fun today! I missed the feel of paper in my hands lol. As much as I enjoy digi-scrappin I really am a paper artist!! Well when Lucie, the creator of ad77design, asked me to be a part of her CT she kind of "hinted" that she would like some hybrid projects. I am really excited to finish one. Digiscrapping really lends itself t o layered embellishments! You can print a few copies of each embellishment and cute out certain pieces to give it that great 3d effect. I also used some paper glaze on the windows of the planes which is great fun. The only issue is that it can cause the ink to run :( Enough of me here is the birthday card:

Kit is Boyswear by ad77design available at MLAS (the site with a lot of <3)
Buttons are by American Crafts
Stamp is by Stampin' Up using StazOn black ink

I hope you enjoy!!

I Opened Photoshop Tonight for the First Time in Days...

2009-08-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

I have been taking a bit of a break the last few days. Not completely by choice, I have just been under the weather, so naptime (my usual scrap time) has been naptime for mommy as well! Tonight, after a nice dinner with a friend and her daughter, I cracked open my old friend CS4 (and a Cab/Shiraz blend) and completed a challenge for Three Paper Peonies. I really like her stuff and she is doing a challenge right now to win a full kit. She does give away some great freebie mini-kits! Anyways, here is my layout using her Grass Itty Bitty kit!

Kit is by Three paper Peonies
Word Art is by Bethany
Photo Mask is by Funky Time Designs by Amber

I really love the graphic nature of her kit! Anyways that's all for tonight! I might work on some of the great challenges over at MLAS tomorrow... I hope ;)

It's about Time!

2009-08-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have a freebie for you guys today!!! Finally!!! Well I am dealing with being sick and putting up with sick kiddos. I ended up having to take my little man to the doctor yesterday. It's just another fun virus. With my daughter she hardly ever got sick, and when she did it wasn't a big deal. The smallest virus means sleepless nights, weird rashes, and mouth sores with the little guy... Oh well! Anyways I am blabbing on. Here is a recent layout I did with the Ravena's Wedding kit by Ad77Design:

I really love all the circular elements she included! Here is a preview of the kit:

The image is linked to her store at My Life and Scrap or you can click HERE.

And last but not least I made a quickpage out of that layout :) Here is what it looks like:

Again, the image is linked to box.net or click HERE!

Thanks again for looking! The new round of challenges are up at My Life and Scrap (Capturing Life's Special Moments in Pixels). I will probably work on those next week to be honest. I need a little break :) Anyways, until next time!!!

Finally!

2009-08-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Well even with very grumpy kiddos and a lack of sleep I have been able to get my pages done for the challenges over at MLAS. First up was the Font Challenge:

Template is by Scrappingwithliz.com
Kit is Gears by Three Paper Peonies
Font is Brown Bear Funk by Dafont

The template was really fun to work with! It already had that grading built in! I am in a little bit of love with this LO! I follow both the blogs that I got these freebies from. Both ladies do some quality work!

Moving straight along to the template challenge, This one is hosted by Kate Designs (who makes soe really unique templates!):

I used the "Wild Abandon" kit which a a duo between Rebecca PSP Designs and Dogs Day Designs. You can find this kit HERE!

Well that about finishes it up for the challenges that are due tomorrow. The Summer Scrapbook Showdown is also due tomorrow but I am not sure if I am going to be able to get that one done in time. It requires a ton of thought!!!! No stress! Well tomorrow is the Speed Scrap at MLAS. They have set up a new chat system so no more "F5, F5, F5, F5... what???? Step 6 already???" hee hee hee, well here is the flier for that gem! You can click on the image to go to the thread.

Until next time!

Bleh!

2009-08-14T07:20:00.000-07:00

So much to do so little time! Well I got one layout finished for the Scraplift challenge and one more started for the Template challenge. I thought I was going to do more but nope! The bug guy comes today at 8am so I had to do some cleaning up and got sidetracked in organizing my real life instead of my digi life! Oh well, at least I can say good bye to fire ants after tomorrow. The Sandhills of NC are notorious for fire ants and I never realized how much I could hate something so small until I moved here! I also have to get rid of a few fleas that I adopted when I took in a stray kitten for a few days until I found him a home. My cats are WAY goofy when they have fleas, it is almost worth keeping them around to watch my cats fall off stuff while scratching. I digress... here is my layout for the Scraplift Challenge over at My Life and Scrap!

Kit is "Mother's Love" by Megan Turnidge
Template is a freebie by Manda Girl

I really hope to have another post today showing off some of the the work of the AMAZING designers that have taken me on as part of their Creative Teams!!!

Time to get a Crackin!!!

2009-08-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Alright, I am FINALLY back home with my big pretty computer and big pretty monitor... ohhh how I missed you.... This means that I have about 2 days to finish up 5 Layouts for the challenges over at My Life and Scrap (the site with a lot of <3) style="text-align: center;">The best part is that is is 50% off right now :) You can find it HERE.

I am hoping to get a layout done with this kit tonight!

I have completed one Layout today (during nap time) It is for the Scrap Mix Challenge which is kinda cool. It is a neat place to get a jump start and the part I like best is that you can make the challenge fit whatever photos you want to scrap right then! Anyways here is my Firecracker layout (yes my little guy is a ginger lol):

Template is by scrappingwith liz.com
Kit is Chilli Pepper by Designs by Rozie
both were AMAZING freebies!!!

p.s. That font looks a ton cleaner on the high res version!!

Well I should get the kiddos to bed in about an hour then I am going to pour myself a rather tall glass of wine and scrap like a crazy woman!!! I will post some progress tomorrow! Until Then!

Wild Abandon

2009-08-11T04:46:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to...... dswork123!!! She is the winner of the Name this Kit Contest over at My Life and Scrap, the site with a ton of heart! The name she came up with... Wild Abandon which I think is super creative! Here is a preview of this freshly-named kit:

You can find it HERE at My Life and Scrap!

Finally!

2009-08-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

After some serious struggling I have finally finished my layout for round one of the Sizzling Summer Challenge over at MLAS. I am still visiting back home so again... damn mini laptop and Photoshop elements! Without further ado...

Blue background, Stitched circle, and orange glitter: Artist in Training collab from MLAS
Striped paper: Joyful Heart Design
Inked Border: Raspberry Iced tea by Laura available at MLAS
Bead Element: Tuliping by Rebecca PSP available at MLAS
Font is Gabriola

Wow, them are some serious credits! I will admit I am usually a one kit kinda gal. Like I said, this was a challenge! If you would like to follow this amazing challenge just go to My Life and Scrap HERE!

Ravena's Wedding

2009-08-05T04:20:00.000-07:00

Well some more exciting news! I have been asked to join ad77design's creative team! I am super excited! She has just put out a new kit "Ravena's Wedding" over at My Life and Scrap; the site with a lot of heart. Here is a preview of the kit

This week it is 40% over at her store.

You can also enter to win this kit here!

And last but not least here is my layout using her amazing kit!

Lilly Bug at the Norfolk Zoo

Well I am entered into the Sizzling Summer Showdown over at MLAS so I have some work to do!!! Until next time!

A new layout for a Challenge

2009-08-03T13:39:00.000-07:00

Here is a layout I made for the Gourmet Scrap Challenge over at My Life and Scrap; the site with a lot of heart! You can participate in the challenge HERE

Created using the "I am Boy" Kit by MAG Design

This was a picture I took during last week's attempt to ween him... not so much of a happy camper! Anyways until next time!!!

A fix on my last Freebie!

2009-08-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

Sooooo there is egg on my face! I guess zipping and posting that last freebie alpha using my itty bitty laptop was not the smartest of ideas. I have since discovered that I can set the posting time so that even when I am on vacation I can publish stuff without having to scramble on the mini 'puter. Well the link in the original post has been fixed but I am going to post it again here. Thanks so much! Also there is still time to name the matching kit and win it over at the forums at My Life and Scrap. Image is linked!

2009-08-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

New kit,a freebie, and a contest!!!

2009-08-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

I am on travel again so I am writing you from my mini laptop... a little frustrating!

RebeccaPSP has teamed up with Dogs Day designs and put out this amazing kit:

The best part is that all you have to do is name it and you could win it! You can enter the contest HERE at MLAS; the site with a lot of heart.

Here is my Layout using this amazing kit:

This was taken at a haunted ghost tour in downtown Wilmington, NC

Finally, here is a free alpha that I made to coordinate with this amazing kit. Click the image or HERE to download.

Thanks again for looking! Leave me some love if you like the new alpha freebies! Also, I might have some really good news in the next couple of days!!!

New fun Contest

2009-07-31T13:44:00.000-07:00

My Life and Scrap is having a fun new contest with some great prizes! I am entered, you should too! Here is the flyer, it is linked to the forum page.

Finally a Freebie

2009-07-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

Ok well I did get a chance to whip up this Alpha for ya! I have been having fun playing with alphas! This was made with an Action I downloaded from Atomic Cupcake! I think it is the perfect Alpha because it is black and brown (I can never decided which to use lol) and it has some grunge to it but is still a script. Just click on the Image to Download:

Paper used in preview is by Designs by Rozie

Getting something of a break!

2009-07-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

Well for the last two and next two days I only have my little guy at home. We are only here for a few days before we go back up to see family. I figured since I had the quiet one-on-one time with him we would try the whole weaning thing. My house looks like the cup and bottle isle of Baby's R Us has exploded. He seems to do fine without me but I just can't seem to get him to drink out of ANYTHING! The thing that has worked the best so far... a plain old cup that he will sip out of (thank you Ericka). Oh well. The good news is that he does take naps so I have had some quality scrappin time! Rebecca_psp recently put out a cute kit named "In My Pocket" over at My Life and Scrap. Here is the preview:

And here is my layout. I really had fun with this one. The pic is of a friend of mine's daughter. We recently had a great playdate over here where we filled a kiddie pol with mud and let the kids go nuts. It was so much fun! Anyways, the layout:

Template by Amy M.
Overlay by Design by Fraisinette
Font is Brushed

Finally a real blog post! Well like I said I am traveling again on Friday so I am not sure when my next real blog post will be but I am going to work my darnedest to get you a freebie today or tomorrow! Until then!

A New Look at my Favorite Site

2009-07-26T04:59:00.000-07:00

The ladies over at My Life and Scrap have done a great job with a remodel over at their site. They have updated and streamlined their look! Here is a screen shot of their new look. You can click on it to go to their site.
Also, there are just 5 days left to do the AMAZING challenges over at My Life and Scrap. I still have to finish the Gourmet and Font challenges!!!! So much to do in the little bit of time I will be home! Luckily I only have one kiddo with me so I might be productive (although I am sure my hubby would rather I be productive cleaning up the mess of a craft room I have). Well until next time!!!!

Ahhhhhhhh!!!

2009-07-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been away for awhile! I am dealing with my grandmother coming home from retiring out of country because of brain cancer. I feel like I have been MIA and owe you guys some freebies! Not today, I am actually on a bit of a vacation for the weekend and then returning home for just a few days only to go back up to visit with grandma and the family for a week or so. I am really bummed that I had to pass up a spot on MLAS's advertising team because of all the uncertainty right now. Well I will be home to my nice big computer on Monday or Tuesday and I PROMISE I will at the very least have a quickpage for you featuring Rebecca_psp's new kit, "In My Pocket". It is really cute and she had included this cool layered pocket so you can tuck your loved ones inside! Here is a preview of the kit:

You can find it in her shop over at My Life and Scrap! Alrighty I am off for now. Hopefully I will be able to post more later.

Exciting News and a Freebie

2009-07-17T14:50:00.000-07:00

Woooo Hooooo I am officially part of Rebecca_psp's Creative Team over at My Life and Scrap. This is super exciting!!!

I am uber stoked to be working with such a talented team of ladies! In celebration I have made a Quick Page freebie to share with everyone!! Here is the original Layout using Rebecca_psp's Oh Man kit Avaliabe at My Life and Scrap :

And here is the Quick Page:

Just click on the image or HERE to download. Have a great day!!!

Excited about a Layout!

2009-07-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Ok I just finished this layout that I am in love with!!! It was for the scrap mix challenge over at MLAS. I used a template by With Love by Mushy and it was GREAT! She does an amazing job of adding effects into her templates. I messed with these a little because the Black and White worked better for me than the Sepia style she had but it still was awesome! Anyways... Here it is:
I used the "Ready For Sun" kit by Kimi's Kreations available at MLAS!

Fun Layout and a Photo Mask Freebie

2009-07-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

Today I have really had a blast making some pages. I had these cute pictures of Lillian scribbling on Linus with some markers. I made up my mind not to start off with a template because it seems that that's the only way I can get a page going. I will admit it was a stretch but I loved the idea of using some scribbly photo masks. Somehow I did not have any downloaded so I whipped some up with the handy Wacom! Anyways here is the Layout:

Credits: Paper is from the "Boho Baby" kit by Gypsy Couture, People Embellishment is by Pamela Dempsey Designs from "Grandma's Porch", The torn paper piece is by MajorTiggerScraps, and the fonts are Alabama and A Morris Line

And Finally a Freebie! Since I had to make those photo masks from scratch I guess I am obligated to share! You can click on the image or HERE to download. Enjoy

This week I have put my name out there for my first two Creative teams! *fingers crossed*

Template Challenge

2009-07-12T18:41:00.001-07:00

SO I completed the Template Challenge over at My Life and Scrap and I am very pleased with my results. The template is by Katie Designs and I used the "Simply Spring" kit by Farrah Smith Designs. I am in love with the simplicity of this kit. And, as wierd as it sounds, I love the color of blue that she used. Right now teal-blue is in style I guess so it isn't easy finding a kit that I like that uses a bold blue. LOvE IT!

I just got my first printed album in the mail

2009-07-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

OK so I sent off 48 pages to be printed and bound. My son's 0-6 month album. I used viovio.com which I read some good reviews about. For a hard-bound 12x12 album with 50 pages it was right around $60 which I thought was reasonable and I didn't really want to go with the cheapest option. Well I got it in the mail this morning and I can't say that I am completely pleased I realize that I should have waited until I had more pictures because it is a little thin, (my fault) but the cover and whole book is bent a little Also the website stated that their printing process is "full bleed" which I am pretty sure means that the image goes to the very edge of the page. I have a white border around everything which I think makes it look less professional. There were also a few printing "oops" It looks like there was a print head glitch on my son's face in one of the pages and also the contrast was messed up on one of the pages as well. I just wanted to give you a heads up! I think next time I might try shutterfly? Has anyone had a good experience??

Fun Layout and a Freebie

2009-07-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

Well I am still chugging along on the challenges at My Life and Scrap You can check out my gallery HERE. This is the page I did for the Font Challenge.

We used the journal font and I put it as my title. I messed with the layer blending options and I really like how this came out. I think that page really shows off Kara Henry's Brave butterfly kit that she has posted as a freebie. You can find her blog HERE

And lastly, here is a template freebie for everyone! Just click on the image or HERE to download. I hope you enjoy!

Speed Scrap

2009-07-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Just a few hours ago I finished a speed scrap over at My Life and Scrap This was my first one and I have to admit that I had a blast! I am usually a pretty fast scrapper because I avoid things like clusters and extractions so this was a fun game for me! Here is my layout:

Kit is "Just for Boy" by Bibou Scrap Design <--- great freebies
Fonts are Pee Wenie and Acid Label
Template is by Molly and Max

If the kiddos get to bed soon I will try to get a freebie up for you tonight :)

And I'm a dummy....

2009-07-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

I forgot to credit the wonderful designer Glayce Cavalcante for her Happy Birthday kit that I used to make the layout for the Mystery scrap challenge. I loved the background papers in this kit they are amazing! Here is a link to her blog.

More challenges and a freebie!

2009-07-02T04:57:00.000-07:00

I decided to try the mystery layout challenge over at MLAS. It was interesting to say the least. Basically you are coping a layout that you have never seen before using directions. Here is what I cam up with:I am not sure if I am completely thrilled with it. It was nice to try something of a different style. I am not usually one to use those multi-frames but it was fun and that part is cool.

So I decided that I would make a template out of yesterday's "Fly Boy" Layout. Here is a freebie for you guys to enjoy as well!
Click on the image above or here for the download. I hope you like it!!

Just another day...

2009-07-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

If it wasn't for cheese my kid wouldn't eat... sheesh. Well it is the first of the month so that means NEW CHALLENGES!!! I think I am enjoying the gallery and forum over at My Life and Scrap.I am not sure why I get such a kick out of these but I do Here is the first one I have done:
Sadly I am not sure where I got this kit from :( It is one I downloaded before I realized that who made the kit was important info to keep, but thank you unknown designer this kit rocks my world!

It is for July's challenge:

You can find it HERE at My Life and Scrap.

I am hoping to rack up enough points to get some goodies :)

2009-06-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Here Goes Nothing.....

Well I think I am going to try my hand at this a bit to see if I can even make a functioning blog. I think I can I think I can I think I can.... Hopefully I will be posting some digital scrapbooking layouts and if I am feeling spunky some templates as well. We will just have to see :)

Creative Re-lease

The 10 things that have made parenting easier.

Final Installment of the Craft tutorial!

Tutorial Part II and a Giveaway!

Tutorial Part I and a Giveaway!

finally friday!

A sense of accomplishment

Things a Mother and Daughter Should Share

Crafter's Block

Work, Work, and Work!

4th Friday Downtown

So Busy!

I love me some summertime

Oy Vey!

I know just enough to get myself in trouble

taaaaa daaaa.....

New Sewing Machine!!!

A skirt for Lilly

antique adventures

productive day!

project gone haywire!

Wytheville, VA

At a Funeral

On the Road

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial *Part 2*

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial *Part 1*

Spring Cleaning

The show was AWESOME!!!

Taking a Break

Long time no see...

Unlocked Autumn Freebie

Finally some pictures!

MLAS is Back and I have freebie for you!

Unlocked Autumn

ANother Freebie From Rebecca but no MLAS yet

RebeccaPSP has some Freebies for you!

Ahhh A Scrapper Without a Home!!

Autumn Whispers

A New Release!!!

A good start

Hybrid Fun!!!

I Opened Photoshop Tonight for the First Time in Days...

It's about Time!

Finally!

Bleh!

Time to get a Crackin!!!

Wild Abandon

Finally!

Ravena's Wedding

A new layout for a Challenge

A fix on my last Freebie!

New kit,a freebie, and a contest!!!

New fun Contest

Finally a Freebie

Getting something of a break!

A New Look at my Favorite Site

Ahhhhhhhh!!!

Exciting News and a Freebie

Excited about a Layout!

Fun Layout and a Photo Mask Freebie

Template Challenge

I just got my first printed album in the mail

Fun Layout and a *Freebie*

Speed Scrap

And I'm a dummy....

More challenges and a freebie!

Just another day...

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial Part 2

Zipper Rosette Headband Tutorial Part 1

Fun Layout and a Freebie