Monday, January 31, 2011

Practice Makes Perfect

I often find that the most challenging, difficult tasks are typically the most rewarding. I would definitely say that is true of my first attempt at this stacked boutique hairbow. I am both amazed and embarrassed to admit this thing took 4 hours and 5 or 6 re-do's...and I still see all of its imperfections. However, I look at the finished product with pride knowing that I stuck it out through all the mistakes and came up with a decent hairbow.

This was a project I have been wanting to do for months, but knew how challenging it would be to learn. One thing you will find out about me, if you don't already know, is that I tend to be a perfectionist. I expect to make a perfect product the first time I learn it. Now, we all know the age old saying, "Practice makes Perfect". I do believe that, as I have seen my craft techniques develop over the years. However, I get very frustrated with myself if I feel I made any mistakes. The benefit of my perfectionism is in the quality of my products. I don't skimp on materials, or my time. I put my whole heart into something. I am constantly looking for a "better" way of making something, not neccessarily a "cheaper" way. Ask anyone in my family, and they will tell you...it frustrates me to no end when I see people trying to sell poorly constructed crafts.

Now, back to what I know you all really come to the website for...

This hairbow was M2MG (Made to Match Gymboree).


Attached to a crocheted hat

My model, my inspiration, my "girly-girl", my beautiful Lily!


Thanks for visiting! :)

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Jacob's New Room

When we decided on an alligator theme for Jacob's nursery, little did I know how difficult it would be to find alligator room decor. Thankfully, I'm crafty enough to at least re-create things I see. I spent countless hours searching the internet for ideas. This design is not original by me, I first saw it on this website: http://lunabellboutique.com/item_1254/SM--Personalized-Kids-Lunch-Box--Alligator-Boy.htm

A little paint, vinyl and a fun afternoon with my Cricut created this hand-made name canvas for my baby boy.



Here are a few pictures of his room:




Wall hanging handmade by my
incredibly talented "Aunt" Mary

Close up of the bedding


I have several more craft projects planned for his room. Stay tuned for the finished product!

Tomorrow, I will post pictures of a few projects I worked on this weekend.

Happy Crafting!  


Friday, January 28, 2011

Desk Set

A fun gift idea for a teacher, college student, business professional, family member, friend...basically, anyone! I mean, who wouldn't love one of these?! :)


Extra Large Paperclips


Over sized Clothespin

Notebook and matching micro-bead pen

I enjoyed a mini shopping spree with my Micheal's Christmas gift cards today. I picked up some supplies for a few new projects I plan to make tomorrow. On the agenda: hairbows, hairbow holders, altered picture frame, a few cards and maybe a baby shower gift. Can hardly contain my excitement about a full Saturday of crafting!

Thursday, January 27, 2011

C is for Cookie

Right before Christmas this year, I decided I wanted to learn how to make decorated sugar cookies. I have tried my hand at cake decorating a few times, so I already had many of the basic supplies to begin this new hobby. After spending countless hours searching websites for recipes and tips, this was my first attempt at decorated sugar cookies...

I was suprised at how cute they turned  out!

I have made MANY more cookies since this first batch...most of which you will see posted in the near future. I am still in search of my FAVORITE recipes & techniques, but I learn something different with each new batch. So far, I'm pretty sold on the rolled sugar cookie recipe from Glorious Treats. Her cookies are gorgeous, and her website is so helpful for this newbie! I have tried a few other dough recipes but nothing comes close to hers! For this first batch, I also used the Royal Icing recipe posted on her website. It was great to decorate with...easy to make, smooth application, beautiful finish. The only problem with royal icing is that is dries very hard, thus making it difficult to bite into. My personal preference is a softer icing, but if you like royal icing, this one was great!




My favorite part of this little guy was his nose. I actually got it to stand up. Not condusive for packaging, but pretty cute!




Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Bridal Flip Flops

A lifelong friend of mine got married over the summer and she really wanted to wear flip flops with her wedding dress. When I heard this, I knew exactly what I wanted to make for her!


These were made with a pair of white Old Navy flip flops, yarn, and Swarovski crystals. It was a fun project but to my surprise, it was time consuming. The yarn was very thin so it took a while to wrap it around the straps. When wrapping the yarn, make sure to pull it tight, hot gluing after every inch or so. Using my hot fix tool (which I LOVE), I added the crystals to the outer edge for that extra "glitzy sparkle".

You could get really creative with these flip flops. Try using satin or grosgrain ribbon for a more "everyday" look. Add a rhinestone, flower or bow to the center piece. Get creative & have fun!

Monday, January 24, 2011

Congratulations!

This was a Congratulations card I made for my Sister to celebrate her recent College Graduation.



I don't remember the paper brands, just some scraps I had in my stash. The "Congrats" was cut on my Cricut, layered on white & pink paper, and attached with Pop-Dots. It was embellished with self adhesive black pearls.


The flower was created using 2 large white Prima flowers, layered with a small pink Prima that was sprayed with Tattered Angels "Pearl" Glimmer Mist and attached with a sparkly silver brad.


Blogging: Take Two!

I haven't given this blog a second thought for over a year now. But, after some encouragement and inspiration from a fellow blogging friend, I decided to give it another shot.

Over the next few weeks, I hope to re-cap some of the many projects I have created in the past year. After that, I am hoping to get on a more regular blogging/crafting schedule.

Hope you enjoy!