EMBELLISH

The Magic of Stencils

2011-10-25T11:19:00.007-04:00

I recently found these antique chairs at an estate sale and they are in perfect condition however, I don't really care fore the maple wood color. I was in a total quandary about what color to paint them when it just so happens that a stencil arrived today that I purchased on etsy and I decided to test it out on the chairs. It was a Serendipity moment and

I am in love with the way they turned out.

Here is a little Halloween Inspiration from my mantel!

Take Care,

Garden Plate Art

2011-06-07T13:52:00.008-04:00

The possibilities are endless and I made several others however, I ran out of glue!

Until next time,

Take care,

Solder Collage Art

2011-05-25T20:20:00.022-04:00

I have wanted to learn this technique for over a year now and when my sweet friend Cindy gave me this charm made by her sister Jayne at:

Chicago Road antiques
http://chicagoroadantiques.com/ I made up my mind that I was going to sit down and learn how to do this. I have not perfected the process but that hasn't stopped me from making a few dozen of these little charms to go on everything in my house. My favorite use for them is to put them on a bottle of wine that I may be giving as a gift. It's a fun way to personalize it!

Hang it on a drawer pull!

Hang it on a lamp shade!

Hang it from the lamp switch!

Wear it around your neck!

Hang it on a candle!

The possibilities are endless . . .

Until next time . . . .Take care,

Coffee Sack Bulletin Board

2011-04-06T21:10:00.004-04:00

The supplies were minimal, a coffee bag, chicken wire, tin snips, a stapler, and a home made frame. I have made similar bulletin boards in the past however, I didn't use the traditional clothes pin to clip my notes onto the board. Instead, I used vintage earrings!

They just clip onto the chicken wire and viola!

Take care,

Stenciling of a Vintage Picnic Basket

2011-03-24T17:16:00.003-04:00

My plan was to try the pencil transfer technique to stencil on the front of this vintage picnic basket. Unfortuneately, the transfer did not work well on the uneven surface of the basket so, I had to go to plan B.
I taped my print out on the window and carefully traced around each letter.

Then, I carefully colored in each letter with heavy pencil lead.

Then, I turned my print out over and placed it on the top of the picnic basket and repeated the process of tracing the letters and coloring them in once again with pencil lead. This time right side up!

Then, I used a paint pen and colored over the penciled lettering.

This is how it turned out!

I really like it however, I would have preferred the lettering of the front of the basket!! Now, I'm using this technique on several other things around the house. I is a nice alternative to stenciling which I completely stink at!

Take care,

Handmare Wire Bird Cage/Cloche

2011-03-15T23:27:00.007-04:00

This was my inspiration! Decorative paper . . . .

This was my supplies . . . . .

This was the end result . . . .I promise it really is sweet in person however, it just did not photograph well!

Take care,

Turning An Ordinary Wine Cork Into Something Extraordinary

2011-03-13T22:31:00.005-04:00

For this project, I used wine corks and drawer pulls that have the screw attached to the actual pull.

Then, I simply drilled a whole into the cork being sure not to drill completely through the bottom. I put a few drops of glue down into the whole and then I screwed the pull down into the cork. Viola, instant wine cork bottle topper! I thought how fun it would be make a set to give as a gift!

Rear view

Take Care,

Decopage Cake Plate

2011-03-09T23:02:00.002-05:00

Before

Sheet music, Glue, and a button topper and there you have it a transformed 1950's stainless steal cake cover.

After

Tale care,

Unconventional Home Accents Using Old Bottles, Door Knobs, Drawer Pulls, and Crystals

2011-03-01T10:08:00.007-05:00

In a wooded area behind our community park in the early 30's and 40' was used as a trash dump. I like to go back there and see what kind of treasures I can dig up. I have dug up dozens of old bottles which I have a strong affection for. I use them as sort of an unconventional home decor. I had the idea of dressing them up a bit by using drawer pulls, door knobs, crystals, and old keys. I had fun with this project and I like the way it transformed my trash to a little treasure!

A few bottles I recently dug up waiting to be cleaned. I really need to find a good tip for cleaning these things????

Before

After

Take care,

Milk Glass Relocation

2011-02-18T07:21:00.010-05:00

I decided to do some rearranging which lead to painting the inside of this old red cabinet and relocating my milk glass collection. This actually all started with a birthday wish to take down a wall in my kitchen which started a change react of relocation's. I have more to share but, it's work in progress!!!!

Oh. this is my first attempt at card making, as my skills improve I will share more. A very sweet friend made my birthday very special and I wanted to give her a thank you from the heart! (you know hand made)
Take care!

Creating Wall Collages

2011-02-08T21:51:00.005-05:00

I love to create wall collages. This one is in my office.
This is the beginning of my next project, a plate collage. I can't wait to find just the right plates to complete this wall. Below are a few pics from the web that lend me "plate collage inspiration."

Take care,

String Tags Turned into Valentines Day Fun!!

2011-02-06T12:34:00.008-05:00

A sweet little recycle project for Valentines Days. I simply reused an empty salsa jar, spray painted the lid, used ribbon and burlap, and added a homemade tag. Then fill it with your true Love's favorite treat!

Take care,

A SWEET VALENTINE PROJECT FROM FAMILY CHIC

2011-01-20T23:27:00.006-05:00

I found this sweet little project on a a site called Family Chic. I think it is darling. One tip they suggested is to fill the can with water, let it freeze, and then punch your design. Very clever.

I was in search of creative inspiration since, I have been in a bit of a creative slump. Unfortunately, my father in-law passed away after the holiday's from brain cancer and the over whelming sadness left me feeling uninspired. I feel the need to create again and I am thankful that I have so many amazing blog friends to look to for inspiration.

Take care,

In Loving Memory of William E. Miller

An Advent Banner

2010-12-06T11:43:00.006-05:00

A new twist on the traditional advent calendar. I used vintage images from the web for the 25 days of Christmas and cut them down to card size. Then, I simply strung them on to a ribbon and viola a fun vintage advent banner!

Take care!!

Gift Box Turned Christmas Ornament

2010-11-19T22:57:00.004-05:00

I went shopping tonight and found this Christmas ornament that made me swoon. I thought, I can do that. So I dug out a small gift box, a few Christmas cards, paint, and some glitter of course and started playing around.

Supplies

These were super fun to make. I think I am going to have to make a few more!

Take care,

Seeking The Perfect Wreath . . .

2010-11-17T09:01:00.008-05:00

Dear Santa, all I want for Christmas is a wreath for my front door. I needed two wreaths, one for mymantel and one for the front door. So, I cheated. For above the mantel, I went semi homemade. I used a store bought wreath and embellished it. (not to bad) Now, I am desperately trying to find the perfect wreath for my red front door. I made one last year and I just wasn't happy with the way it turned out so I look to the web for some inspiration and . . . . .

My Mantel (work in progress)

Here are a few of the beautiful/inspiring wreaths that I found from County Living Magazine.

This is the one I plan to recreate. . . .wish me luck!!!

Take care,

A Fun and Functional Way to Recycle Old Christmas Cards

2010-11-08T11:07:00.003-05:00

If you are like me, you hate to throw away all of those beautiful Christmas cards that you receive each year from all of your friends and love ones. I thought why not recycle them into gift tags. It is simple, easy, and fun. If you have a pair of scissors, some ribbon, and some glue you are all set to make own one of kind gift tags.

After

Before

Hope you feel inspired!!

Take care,

Pumpkin Lanterns A Cute Alternative to Carving Pumpkins

2010-10-29T08:21:00.005-04:00

Materials Need:
Tin Can
Hammer And Nail (or Drill with Drill Bit)
Acrylic Paint: Orange and Black
18 - 20 Gauge Wire
Votive Candle or Electric Candle

Simply paint the tin can and then trace the desire face onto it. Then, begin drilling or hammering your holes for the light to come through. You could get creative and paint one black to create a skeleton image or even green to create a Frankenstien image.

I found this fun idea here:
Pumpkin Lantern at WomansDay.com- Halloween Crafts

Victorian Scroll Happy Halloween - Free Pumpkin Carving Patterns

2010-10-19T08:32:00.004-04:00

I happened upon this beautiful scroll from DotComWomen and thought I would share it since it could be used in so many ways not just on a pumpkin!

Victorian Scroll Happy Halloween - Free Pumpkin Carving Patterns: "Download the 'Victorian Scroll Happy Halloween Pattern'
What you will need:
Tracing paper; pencil
Scissors
Pumpkin, scooped out with lid cut
Pumpkin-carving tools
Directions:
1. Download the 'Victorian Scroll Happy Halloween Pattern'. Right-click and choose Save-as to save the pattern on your computer. Then, print out the pattern.
2. Tape the pattern on your pumpkin and trace it.
3. Trace the pattern on the pumpkin and cut out using pumpkin carving tools.
4. Place a candle (fixed onto a plate) inside the pumpkin and light it."

2 Simple Craft Projects and A Chair Redo

2010-10-17T06:00:00.009-04:00

I found these unusually shaped decorative glass pieces and thought they would be perfect decoupaging Halloween clip art.

Before

Before Cloche Project

After

Before Chair Project

After

Take care,

Antique Print Printer's Drawer Turned Shadow Box

2010-10-11T15:30:00.006-04:00

Photo credit: Green Chair Press.com

I love antique wood type almost as much as I love antique print printer's trays. I am always trying to come up with creative ways to repurpose them. I found this one at a recent garage sale and I thought how fun it would be to create a vacation memory box.

Take care!

Creating Fun Accessories Out of Material

2010-10-06T09:59:00.007-04:00

These are material swatches that came from an upholster that was going out of business. I had an idea for a fun project so I used my pinking shears scissors and free handed different size circles out of various different pieces of material. I also used some burlap. Once I got several coordinating color and sizes I put them together and made a little stitch in the middle to hold them together. Then I accessorized them with either a button or a vintage pin. Now they were ready to be pinned on my sweaters, coat jackets, skirts or even head bands. It was Sew easy!!

Take care!

RaDoM StUfF

2010-10-01T09:09:00.007-04:00

Image from: Salvage Style by Moira and Nicholas Hankinson

My sister gave me this book several years ago and when I saw this project my heart skipped a beat. I instantly started collecting items to make a salvage chandelier of my own. It takes a lot of bling to reproduce this thin. So, I forgot about it UNTIL, last night while cleaning my basement I uncovered the items that I started collecting to make this awesome beauty. Now I plan to continue my search and get started on this project! Yea!

These photos were taken of an Retro airstream that was on display at the Country Living Fair that I attended in Columbus, OH last weekend. I so want this precious camper in my backyard to use as my secret hide away!

This is a sweet little side table that has been sitting in my garage just waiting to be rescued. I painted it and it turned out cute but, a bit to bright. So I aged it with dry brushing some burnt umber over it and now I am pretty happy with the way it turned out! P.S. The table cloth was a weekend find and I looooove it!

Before photo

This is a large RaVeN that I found over the weekend and I think he looks lovely sitting under my cloche!!!!

Take care!!!!

Have a beautiful weekend!

Easy and Fun Halloween Decor

2010-09-28T09:45:00.010-04:00

How sweet is this idea from GHK. For this project, they suggested using the bathroom size plastic cups. You simply cover each cup with the decorative paper of your choice and then, make a small slit in the top of each cup to insert your strand of lights. How simple is that and I absolutely love this project. I can't wait to post the one I am making!

This is another fun idea from Ballard Designs. You can order a set of these and use them year after year. However, I thought it would be fun to make a slip cover out of decorative paper and place them over your existing lamp shades. How easy would that be!!

This is another adorable idea from GHK. A witch for your front door. You could cut this out of of vinyl, wood, or any material you choose to use. I love the three dimensional appearance of this project and hope to be making this once I gather my supplies! To download template
Click here: www.GoodHouseKeeping.com/ key words: printable halloween witch template.

Have Fun Creating!

Take care,

Decorating Projects for HALLOWEEN . . . . .

2010-09-22T09:32:00.003-04:00

I have sooooo much fun decorating for Halloween. I think it's like chippy paint, if you love it you get it and if you don't well - you don't. But, if perhaps you are one of us Halloween obssessed and you will like these fun projects that I have been working on . . . .

Take Care!

One Day Makeovers: Janeane's Master Bedroom - iVillage

2010-09-17T09:27:00.004-04:00

This is a wonderful video from iVillage that I think you will enjoy and the bedding used in the video came from my favorite store http://www.anthropologie.com/

Click Here:

Day One Makeovers: Janeane's Master Bedroom - iVillage

A Before and After & A Fun Little Halloween Craft Project

2010-09-14T18:50:00.005-04:00

I purchased this little piece at a fundraiser sale and it was passed over for most of the day. I knew I just had to have it since, I could see it's potential! After a quick sanding and several coats of paint I think it will make a lovely bed side table.

The following pieces of clip art are from the gracious Graphic Fairy. I recently purchased these two empty bottles with the intention to decoupage some Halloween graphic on the front of them.
These were perfect for my little project.

Now all they need are some black jelly beans!

Here is a banner that I made to hang in my kitchen. If you have some scrap booking paper and glitter you really need to make one of these sweet little banners. They are so much fun!

Take care!

Embellished Halloween Banner

2010-09-07T11:29:00.003-04:00

I purchased this banner at Tuesday Morning back in the summer. I bought it with the intentions to see what I could do with it. It essentially came as clip board with the letters punched out. I used a little scrap booking paper, glitter, and ribbon to transformed it into a colorful and fun Halloween banner for my dinning room.

Take Care,

RaNdoM STuFf

2010-08-31T11:14:00.002-04:00

Just playing and creating fun vignettes!

Take care!!

Playing Dress Up With Vintage Pins

2010-08-27T09:42:00.014-04:00

Who said vintage pins are just for sweaters . . .I think they look pretty snazzy on lamp shades and pillows too!!!

Here is idea for those vintage earrings.

Take care!!

Keeping It Simple

2010-08-24T08:50:00.003-04:00

I live in a small cape cod where space is limited. But, I am constantly rearranging my small abode in attempts to find a fun new way to redecorate my space. I used to have these shelves filled with fun little vignettes but, I decided to try to make this space more functional and pull things out of the cupboards that I use often and have them at my finger tips. I was pretty excited that functional could be fun!! I like the simplicity of the shelves and putting dishes away is so much easier!

This is a simple little before and after. The humity has briefly lifted so I pulled a small little project out of the garage to work on. I can't wait to get started on some of my other projects.

Repurpose, Redecorate Before and After

2010-08-21T11:23:00.011-04:00

This is a living room makeover done by BHG that I thought was just to clever. So many of the crafty ideas could be applied to your own home for little to no money. With a little imagination and some paint, wallpaper, decoupage, and repurposed items you could potentially transform a room. Just thought I would share it with you since I found it so inspirational!

after

before

after

before

after

before

after

before

after

before

Take Care!

Alfresco Dinning

2010-06-22T22:05:00.008-04:00

What could be more relaxing than outside dinning. I love to use my vintage table cloths, mixed matched china, and tea lights in old ball jars. Here's to a lovely evening dinning outside!

Repurposed Base Board Project & A Few Garage Sale Finds Redos!

2010-06-01T11:19:00.007-04:00

I apologize for being MIA, my computer monitor went out along with my ipod touch and air conditioner. Thank God the air conditioner was only a $200.00 dollar fix. I am using my daughters computer monitor and I have to unplug it every time I want to use it. I haven't taken the touch in but, I am hoping it is an easy fix. The screen went black???? Onto better things, I purchased some old floor molding and this is what I have been making out of it! Hanging flower vases! I used a 12 inch piece of molding, painted it, and attached an old vintage bottle with 18 gauge wire and VIOLA you have an instant flower vase.

I found these two beauties at the GW. They were already painted a darling light pink. Unfortunately, the pink did not show up very well in my pics. They were absolutely darling except for the hideous seat covers.

Before

So, I ran through the skirt isle and found this hip and happening print that would fit the seats perfectly.

After!

I have always loved chicks and hens and a very sweet person gave me these to me and I knew exactly what I wanted to do with them. I planted them in an old kitchen strainer and placed them in the garden on an old school chair. To sweet!

Finally, this is a little cabinet that I picked up over the weekend and I simply sanded and painted it!

Before

After

Take care!

April Showers Brings May Flowers . . . Paper Ones of Course

2010-05-13T21:57:00.012-04:00

I used one these Antique Flyers that I found at my favorite little antique shop in old Milford called The Mercantile Mall.

I got my inspiration for this project from this post byhttp://sassytrash.blogspot.com/ I had a party to go to and thought how cute it would be to use a version of this paper flower to put on top of the gift instead of a traditional bow. I used a combination of the above paper flowers and the Marth Stewart Pom Pom's. Although it did not photograph well, it really was sweet looking a top the gift!

Take care!

Bring The Outdoors In Under Glass With Terrariums

2010-05-06T09:18:00.010-04:00

What could be more beautiful than a planting under glass. I thought I would share these ideas with everyone since it is so simple to put it together and it makes such a beautiful gift for Mother's Day!

Souce of Images Country Home Magazine

Vintage Goodness

2010-04-30T19:50:00.007-04:00

Just thought I would share a few of my recent vintage finds that I repurposed. A Champagne bucket turned flower pot.

Old Pharmacy bottles turned interesting decor/conversation's piece and . . . .

A Vintage suit case that I painted and now is ready for decoupage!

I am working on several fun pieces but, my seasonal allergies are slowing me down.

Hope to have a fun post sooooon!

Take care!

Craft Room Storage Ideas

2010-04-26T12:10:00.007-04:00

It's not secret, organization makes our lives so much easier. For me, it is a constant work in process. One closet or drawer at a time. I thought I would share some pics that I found inspirational. Hopefully, you will feel inspired as well!

Take care!

Two Exciting Garage Sale Finds . . . .

2010-04-24T23:29:00.005-04:00

The search is finally over, this seven drawer cabinet is exactly what I have been looking for to keep my craft supplies. It is such a fun piece and I am not sure if I want to keep it natural wood or paint and distressed it. However, I did not waste any time filling it up and it holds a ton!!!

At the same garage sale, I found some vintage chess pieces to add to my collection of game pieces. Fortunately, I had one milk jar left! I am so pathetic, it just doesn't take much to make me happy. Hope your weekend finds were as fun as mine.

Take care!

A Small Furniture Piece Redo, A Garage Sale Find, and A Fun idea

2010-04-19T13:17:00.004-04:00

First, I wanted to mention that it is my one year blogging anniversary! I totally cannot believe it has been an entire year since I made my first post. Thank you so much for a fun year and a very special thanks to my sweet blogging friends who took the time out of their busy schedules to leave me such thoughtful and encouraging comments. I truly feel blessed.
Well here is to another great year. This is a little project that I worked on this morning. I am trying to reduce my project pile in the garage. It is a small piece but, it is cute and quite functional.

The Before!

I found these two items at a recent garage sale and I can't wait to put plants in them.. The wire basket will be filled with moss and both will get flowers planted in them. I looooove to container garden and these are perfect for my eclectic garden.

Finally, this is just a fun and funky idea. Take an old small bed frame and decoupage an enlarged old black and white photo to the head board. Obviously you would need a large wall to hang such a piece but I think it is so stinking cool!!!

Take care!

A Couple to Garage Sale REDO's and a Jonque Bracelet

2010-04-16T17:54:00.007-04:00

I found this basket at a garage sale. It still had the original price tag of $16.99 from TJ maxx's. I thought it would make the perfect storage for all of my massive magazines collection that I have scattered all over the house. I wanted to slide it under the television stand in the family room but it needed a little height to it. So, I took a scrap piece of wood and added some industrial looking wheels and it gave it the height that it so needed.

This vintage stool has beautiful brass legs but it just needed to recovered in a fun print to give it a little PIZZAZZ!

It like the way it turned out!!

Finally, this is a Jonque bracelet that I recently made out of some more "charmers" that I have collected over the years. I especially love the peace sign. The fun thing about this bracelet is every little charmer has a story.

Have a beautiful weekend!!!!

A Silhouette Project and Some Fun Storage Ideas

2010-04-12T17:31:00.010-04:00

I swoon bird silhouettes and wanted to do a project with one for some time. I needed to fill in a small space in a collage on my family room wall and this frame was the perfect size. When I got started, I ripped a page out of the dictionary to create the birds feathers and low and behold that the random piece that I cut out had the definition of embellish on it. IS THAT SERENDIPITY OR WHAT? I am in the process of painting the family room and the walls are covered with spackle but, once I get it painted I will post the collage. (It is above my desk and I loooooove it.)

I went garage selling this weekend and picked up 6 old milk bottles and some more game pieces and this is what I did with them.

Finally, I went to Michael's this weekend and found these little jars for $1.00. I got this idea from my talented friend Stephanie over at The Vintage Glitter House and I thought it was so stinking clever. It is not only extremely functional but, it looks adorable in my craft area.

So this is what I did with my weekend along with kids activities, laundry, cleaning(which included my disastrous garage), painted a few pieces, and worked on some more Jonque bracelets (which has become my new obsession.)

Smitten With "Jonque" Jewlery

2010-04-09T11:55:00.006-04:00

I found this "Jonque" bracelet made by a vendor/artist at my favorite little Antique shop in Milford, OH the Mercantile Mall. I instantly fell in love. It cost $15.00 and I wanted to buy every single one she had but unfortunately, that was not an option.

When I wore my bracelet for the first time, I did not like how she attached the letter "Z" so I took it off, drilled a hole and used a jump ring to re attach it and I decided that this look was much better. Well, that sparked my idea, Maybeeeee, I could make one of these fun bracelets for myself. I just used odds and ends that I had around the house and got started.

NOW, I am on a mission to find all sorts of tiny Junk items to make a few more of these fun little charmers!. Thanks to AD for getting me inspired!

When I asked my 9 year old son what he thought it, he simply said, "It looks like a bunch of junk on a chain" I laughed and said, "Oh that's wonderful - that is exactly what I was going for."

Spring Means I Can Start Working On My Plethora of Projects In the Garage . . . .Yea!

2010-04-06T11:27:00.014-04:00

My disastrous garage.

This is a little maple side table that has been in the gargage for approximately a year and I finished it this morning. I think it would look cute in the kitchen.

Nothing like beautiful weather to motivate me! Hope you are having beautiful weather also!

Take care.

From Sweet Little Girl's Room to Preteen - Full of Compromises

2010-04-01T21:24:00.008-04:00

I found this darling vintage chandelier for my daughter's room at a garage sale on Saturday. Yea, my first garage sale of the season. It just needed a little TLC and the addition of a few crystals. I brought home and she did not like it! She had something completely different in mind. She wanted something silver and modern. So here is the compromise. I took a brushed nickel chandelier and added glass plates from another chandelier that I had previously taken apart (after I broke the arm off of it) and I actually like the combination of the modern nickel with vintage parts.

Then, we had the dilemma of whether or not to add crystals. So, we tried three different styles and agreed on the first one. And, to my surprise she loved it.

Then it was a trip to anthropologies for new knobs. Since we couldn't agree one knob we ending up getting a different knob for each drawer. Once again, it turned out pretty cute. Unfortunately, I just discovered that I did not post the pic of all the knobs. I will have to post it later. (Side note: I wish blogger would make an upgrade so that you could go back and add a pic in the middle of your post rather than having to re post the entire post - sorry for the digression)

Final decision, paint color and bed linens. Once again, we bought one I like and one she choose. The paint color is just two shades darker than the color I picked but hey, it work out too! I just my survive the tweens after all!!!

Burlap Coffee Sack Turned Wall Art . . . . Plan B

2010-03-24T19:56:00.006-04:00

I had a project all set and ready to go for this coffee sack. I planned to cover a foot stool and I even made a cute little flirty skirt for the bottom of it. However, when I started to cover the top of the stool, I quickly discovered that the print was completely off center. (bleep, bleep, bleep!) So, here's Plan B. I recently found this frame in the trash and I thought hmmm, why not a graphic piece of wall art? I guess this project is truly trash to treasure.

This has nothing to do with my post but, I went to the flea market over the weekend and found a vendor that was selling vintage photos. Most of them were black and whites of children. My heart skipped a beat. I absolutely love vintage photos of children. I bought several of them this one was one of my favorites. It even comes complete with an apparition. JK -Just kidding! I am thinking of project that I can use them.

Easter Vignette Goodness!!!!

2010-03-15T16:39:00.007-04:00

It all started with these few purchases over the weekend!

Decorating With Numbers

2010-03-11T16:29:00.006-05:00

Pottery Barn

Betsygrace Etsy

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn

Anthropologie

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn

I feel so inspired to add a few of these ideas in my own home. I rencently discovered that you create your own stencils by printing numbers off the computer in the font and size of your choice and then, simply trace the outline of the numbers and use a craft knife to cut them out. Then, you are ready to add numbers to your boxes, drawers, pillows, doors, and anything else you can think of. My personal favorite is the first pic, the cork board covered with burlap. It is just soooooo me!!

Hope you feel inspired!!!

Burlap Coffee Bean Sack Turned Bulletin Board

2010-03-05T19:52:00.008-05:00

I love this project on so many levels, burlap, chicken wire, the graphic image on the front of the sack, and the smell of fresh coffee beans, Oh my!!! The possibilities are endless since, coffee beans come from all over the world and there are so many different graphic images imprinted on them .

Simply Serenity

2010-03-01T10:55:00.003-05:00

Country Living Magazine

Country Living Magazine

Victoria Magazine

Victoria Magazine

Hopefully, these pics will give you some calm and serenity. Have a beautiful day!

A Liittle Green Palette Inspriration for Spring

2010-02-21T10:58:00.007-05:00

Photo Credit BHG
Photo Credit BHG

Photo Credit Real Simple

Photo Credit BHC

Photo Credit CLM

Photo Credit

What do you do when you break one of a pair?

2010-02-18T12:15:00.005-05:00

Turn it into a post card holder, of course!

And once you make one, you have to make another!

Have a Sweet Day!!!!

Serendipity . . . . . .

2010-02-15T18:12:00.004-05:00

My sweet friend from http://thevintageglitterhouse.blogspot.com/ dropped off this beautifully wrapped gift to me on my birthday. She used seam binding in place of ribbon and tied a vintage piece of a jewelry (possibly an old pin) to the top of the gift. It was so beautiful I didn't want to open it. So, I decided to create a necklace out of the gift embellishment. I loved how adorable it turned out and the simplicity of the necklace. I wore it out and received so many complements. She also gave me two rolls of seam binding since, she has found a million ways to use it and thought I could come up with a few of my own. So, I did. I made another necklace out of a random piece of colored glass and wire. I am so in love with the simplicity of these ribbon necklaces that I hope to make a whole bunch more. The bonus is that ribbon necklaces are the rage right now!

Perhaps Being Born On Valentines Day Could Explain My Love Affair With The Color Red . . . Hmmm

2010-02-12T20:57:00.007-05:00

Vintage Inspired Kitchens That Make Me Swoon . . . . .

2010-02-06T22:50:00.012-05:00

Thanks for Stopping By - Hope you enjoyed your visit!

Dress Up For Big Girls and Small

2010-02-06T18:01:00.005-05:00

I found this idea in Country Sampler magazine and I just loved it. For some unkown reason, I have a thing for old ladders. My daughter has several friends over today and they are stuck in side due to the snow so, I used this idea to create a place to display their dress up and accessories. They loved it so much she wants me to keep it in her room however, she did request that I paint the ladder a fun color like hot pink! (I of course, love the old worn rustic look of the ladder and would not change a thing!) I think I need one for myself!!

Collections Under Glass

2010-02-02T11:37:00.008-05:00

Can you say obsession, jars, cloches, and collections oh my! Sea glass, Chandelier crystals, glass knobs, vintage jewelry, buttons with bling, and of course anything with numbers and letters (preferably black and white) I have these things sprinkled throughout my decor in my home and they just make me happy. I only share these things because I know that some of my fellow blogging friends share some of these same obsessions and might enjoy this post!

Take Care!!!!

A Unique Way to Display Vintage Photos

2010-01-30T21:53:00.007-05:00

What is it about old black and white photos? I seem to have an obsession with them. I am always thinking of fun and unique ways to display them and that is where this project came from. I took an old vintage frame and attached twine horizontally. Then, I just clipped the simple old photos onto the twine with clothes pins. I love the way it turned out and it's defiinitely one of those projects that looks better in person. I just couldn't seem to get a good photo of the project but hopefully, it will still inspire you in some way. Enjoy and take care!

Coffee Filter and Cup Cake Banner

2010-01-24T12:33:00.008-05:00

Coffee filters, cup cake holders, decorative paper, ribbon,tea bags and a little imagination and you have one sweet Valentines Day Banner. I began by tea dying the paper and coffee filters to give the banner an aged look. Then, I layered the filters and cup cake holders until I was happy with the way it looked. For added interest, I trimmed some of the filters with pinking shears scissors and then stapled it all together and placed a glittered circle cut out in the middle to camouflage the staples. Then, I placed the banner on ribbon and attached the glittered letters that I found at Target in the dollar section. This project was really fun to make and it was soooo simple.

For this next project, I simply placed a ribbon around the glass cylinder of a red candle and added a sweet little vintage pin. Then, I added a paper hearts garland that I cut out of the scrap paper from the banner project. I simply strung the paper hearts on craft wire and placed it around the cylinder of the candle and it turned a simple candle into a sweet Valentines Day decoration. What I love most about these decorations is that they didn't really cost me much of anything to make and they were so fun and simple to make. Hope one of these projects inspire you to create something for yourself. Take Care!

Random Crafts . . . .

2010-01-21T22:03:00.007-05:00

This project is a fun alternative to a valentines Day Card, it's a message in a bottle. I used a vintage bottle that I wrapped with cooper wire and attached a ribbon and little glittery decoration. You can personalize it with your own special message. To make it fun for the kids, you could bury the bottle in the back yard and create a treasure map for them to find it!!

Remember those buttons that I put in the recycled pickle jar? Well I turned them into a cute little art project. I used a scrap piece of wood, pre cut letters, some glitter, and buttons!

Turn a simple vintage box into functional organization by using it for incoming mail.

Take Care!

Two completely unrelated "love"ly little crafts . . .

2010-01-15T12:59:00.007-05:00

I love the simplicity of this Valentines Day decoration. I free handed the heart and it is a little rough but, I think it adds to it's rustic charm.

On another note, I never throw away empty jars. I love the repupose them. I simply paint the lid and fill them with odds and ends and there you have it cheap storage and organization. I am actually trying to clean my craft area and in the process, I needed something to store my buttons and clothes pins. Just thought I would post about it. Not very exciting but, it might spark an idea for somebody.

A Crafty Clipboard Project

2010-01-12T11:11:00.010-05:00

I recently found these clipboards at a garage sale and I had to scoop them up! Clipboards are are so utiliarian and yet they can be used in so may decorative ways. They are great for displaying old photos, kids art work, message boards, inspirations boards, and so much more. I have several old photos that I would like to display and placing them on old clip board adds to their vintage charm. I simply painted the clipboard black, cut decorative paper to fit, and clipped on the old photo. I think it has a pottery Barn feel and the price was right!

I checked out the web for some additional inspiration and I found these fun photos on Flicker. Enjoy!

Photo by ADDYDOODLE

Photo by SMILE and Wave

Photo by MINTYGREEN

Photo by SMILE and Wave

Photo by DECORATIVE INSTINCTS

Photo by KNOXILLOWOMAN

Photo by Ishandchi

Photo by HOMEBUG

Photo by CASEY BAUDOIN

Photo by DECOROLOGY

An Inexpensive Hanging Ornament Display

2009-12-16T21:14:00.006-05:00

This project is a lot of bang for your buck. All you will need is a nine inch piece of chain like the one pictured in the first pic. The chain I used cost approximately .50 cents a foot. From there you simply attach the ornaments with regular ornaments hooks. Once you have achieved a look that you are happy with, simply attach a bow and you have an instance beautiful hanging ornament display.

Picture Frame Turned Wreath Craft Project

2009-12-07T23:12:00.004-05:00

This simple wreath was made with a 5 x 7 picture frame, some greenery that I had on hand, and some craft wire. I began by painting the frame green and from there I simply wired the greenery to the frame. I love the unconventional look of the square wreath and I was sooooo simple to make. You could use any type of greenery and any size frame to achieve this same look.

Inspiration From Anthropologie for the Holidays

2009-12-03T21:36:00.009-05:00

While out doing a little Christmas shopping I snapped these photos of my absolutely favorite store Anthropologie. I not only love to shop there but, I love to get inspiration from their amazing displays. I feel like I have stepped into an artist studio. I hope you enjoy visiting the store as much as I did.

A Vintage Christmas

2009-11-30T14:26:00.008-05:00

I absolutely love vintage ornaments. There is just something so charming about them. I have been collecting them for several years now. Last year my boys bounced a basketball into the bowl that I was displaying them in and ended up breaking about ten of them. That's when I came up with displaying them under glass on a cake plate. I love the way it looks and so I thought I would share this idea since, it is something you could incorporate into your own decor with new or vintage ornaments.

A vintage vignette under a glass cloche. So easy and yet, it makes such a statement!

Vintage ornaments displayed in silver compotes.

I had to share this, I found this vintage tree and ornaments at a garage sale for $2. I was soooo excited. The vintage silver trees are so feastive and fun!!!

I just wanted to thank everyone for stopping by my blog and I apologize for the unexpected blog break! I've missed my blog friends!

A Collection of Fall Center Piece Ideas

2009-11-10T13:03:00.009-05:00

This collection of fall center piece ideas came from BHG, Martha Stewart, Pottery Barn, Arhaus Furniture, and HGTV. Most of these ideas could be easily duplicated and or tweaked to suit your individual table scapes. My personal favorites are the first four. I plan to use some sort of variation of one of them. I hope you will feel inspired and find one that you can implement on your own dinner table. Enjoy!

Place Card Ideas

2009-11-03T11:44:00.007-05:00

Just thinking ahead to the upcoming holiday season and wanting to come up with some fun and simple place card ideas. Here are a few ideas from the web and in the next few days I hope to post a few of my ideas. Some of these could be easily tweaked to your own color scheme. How easy is this first one, a permanent fabric marker on an inexpensive linen towel.

Courtesy of Heather Bullard

Courtesy of Pottery Barn

All Hallows Eve - Martha Stewart & Grandin Road

2009-10-29T08:51:00.003-04:00

I know everyone is probably tired of my Halloween obsession. I promise this is my last post regarding the fabulous holiday. I just wanted to share this catalog with everyone since, Martha Stewart and Grandin Road have paired up and they came out with the most amazing Halloween decor. http://www.grandinroad.com All of the above items are now 50% off. I can't wait to place my order. If nothing else, the catalog is worth checking out for awesome decorating ideas if you are planning a party.

A Bootiful Repuposed Art Project

2009-10-22T20:54:00.004-04:00

These pictures frames were ten cents each at a garage sale, the wire mesh gutter cover was in my neighbor's trash, (left right on top and brought to my attention since, they knew I would do someting with it) and the paper was five sheets for a dollar at Hobby Lobby. Toss in a little glitter and glue and you have some fun Halloween art.

Total Cost for this project is a whole $1.30 plus glitter and glue which I of course, already had on hand. How fun is that?

Halloween Party Favor/Decoration

2009-10-18T18:33:00.007-04:00

Before I talk about this project, I wanted to apologize for my FTP - Failure to Post. Unfortunately, I had the flu which went into respiratory issues and it's taken me a little while to get back on my feet. You know that I am sick when I don't feel like blogging or looking at my beloved magazine. I thank God I am getting better and I'm back in blog world.

This is such a fun project and once you have a template you could potentially make dozens of them in a short amount of time. I not only used them as a part of my Halloween decor but, they also serve as wonderful party favors.

These are the supplies need. I used glittered foam stickers and they truly make the project however, you could embellish this project with what ever you have on hand i.e. ribbon, glitter, etc.

These are the papers I used - Did I mention that I have an obsession with paper?

This is the rough template that I used. I cut the sheets of paper into 5 by 5 pieces. Then I made a fold approximately a 1/2 inch across the top. Then I folded the paper in half leaving a 3/8 inch lip (which you will glue down) At this point you are ready to glue, embellish, and stuff.

(Note: the above template is upside down)

Two Part Post: Scare Crow Festival and Glitter Crow Project

2009-10-11T19:06:00.005-04:00

These images are from a scare crow festival that I went to over the weekend. As you pull up to the farm you are greeted by the cast of the Wizard of Oz. As you drive back to the barn the entire yard outside of the old farm house is a wedding setting and the attendees are all scare crows. The sun was just about to set and the yard had an ominous feeling about it. It was so fun. For $25.00 you could build your own scare crow with the help of the experts.

Below is a simple craft project that I did over the weekend. Essentially, all you need is a piece of crow clip art that you can trace onto a piece of wood and then just simply cut it out. Then, I would suggest painting the crow black. Once dry, paint the crow with Elmer's glue and sprinkle generously with glitter. Then, I used a scrap piece of wood that I painted orange and wrote the words trick or treat with a paint pen. From there, I used a sign that I purchased on clearance and glued it to the back of the crow to allow it to stand. Then, I drilled a hole in the piece of wood that says trick or treat and inserted the rod into the wood and there you have it a simple glittered crow project.

Fall Inspiration

2009-10-07T08:18:00.002-04:00

The Winner of my 100th post give away is Pink Daisys Blog! Just shoot me an e-mail with your new address and your gift will be on it's way. Thanks to everyone else who left a comment and/or follows my blog you all are so very dear to me. The following photos are just fall pics from Country Living Magazine and the Pottery Barn 09 Catalog that I found to be both beautiful and inspirational.

Shopping in the Clearance Isle

2009-10-06T11:49:00.006-04:00

Today is the last chance to sign up for my 100th post give away! If you are currently following my blog you will be automatically entered to win. As promised, the lucky winner will be drawn and announced tomorrow morning. Best of Luck to everyone!!! I love this idea. I purchased this dish drainer on clearance at home goods. It makes the perfect magazine holder to sit on top of my desk. I holds a ton of magazines and I like the way it looks.

This is a wrought iron flower pot that was also purchased on clearance and with a little spray paint and imagination it makes the perfect witches cauldron for a fun halloween display. I have to give my sister credit for this one. She made one for her self as well. Thanks Deb.

This is a broken shadow box that I found on clearance at Hobby Lobby. (The oval wire piece is a future project) I did not bother to replace the glass, I simply painted it and placed it over a plate hanging of the wall and now it serves as a little display shelf.

Another option . . . . . .

100th Post GIVE AWAY . . . . .

2009-10-01T14:17:00.009-04:00

These super fun images are from a book that I recently picked up called The French-Inspired Home. It is a really sweet book filled with terrific ideas and lots of inspiration. As a way of giving back and saying thanks to everyone who follows my blog and takes the time to stop by and leave such caring comments, I am hosting a 1ooth post give away. The give away includes the book as well as a 24 sheet pack of specialty paper with 8 different styles with some being glittered and some flocked. It will surely give you an opportunity to have fun and simply CREATE! Just leave the name of your blog in comments and you will be tossed in the hat. If you are currently following my blog you are automatically entered to win. Once, a name has been chosen you can simply e-mail me with your address and your gift will be on it's way. You have until October 6th to enter and the winner will be announced on Wednesday October 7th. Good Luck and Thanks again!!

Halloween Fire Place Banner

2009-09-25T19:42:00.005-04:00

I purchased this Martha Stewart clip art craft kit awhile back and I finally got around to opening it and I was pleasantly surprised. There are a lot of things you could create with this one kit. It comes with 6 sheets of fun Halloween craft paper and three fairly large pieces of clip art that could be embellished in a dozen different ways. I of course, made something that the kit was not intended for, I made a Halloween banner. The sheets of paper were the perfect size and it just inspired me to make a banner for the fire place. I encourage everyone to try to make one of their own, since it is so stinking easy and fun. The supplies needed are: craft paper, glue, glitter, pipe cleaners, and letter clip art which could be printed off the computer to save money. You could also use material in place of paper if that is what you have on hand.

A Fun Halloween Project To Do With The Kids

2009-09-23T11:52:00.008-04:00

But first, I have to ask has this ever happend to any one else? I spent the weekend going to the Country Living Fair and the Springfield Flea Market which were amazing. I of course, took a million pictures so that I could blog about the day and this is what happened. It was extremely toasty and I think my camera may have gotten over heated. I was sooooo disappointed. I had some awesome pics to share.

Oh well, now for the simple halloween project. At the Country Living Fair, they were selling gourds of all shapes and sizes. Since, I love dried gourds, I had to think of something to do with them so that's where the idea for Mailda the Witch came from. I simply sawed off the neck of a spoon gourd and placed in on top of a broken shovel handle. Then I screwed a scrap piece of 1 x1 horizonally to the handle to form the body (the same concept as a scare crow). At that point, you are ready to assessorize. I painted her face green and added a fancy hat and cape. Now she is ready to greet the trick or treaters and the best part is she did cost anything since, my sister already had dried gourds. Now I think all she needs a broom.

Simple Chicken Wire Project

2009-09-17T19:27:00.009-04:00

This project is sooooo simple. All that is needed is chicken wire and some decorative paper. In all honesty, I was experimenting and I used materials that I had on hand. Although I like the way it turned out, I would have preferred an orange or green ribbon for contrast. I plan to make some additional ones since, I would like to hang them on the back of each of my dinning room chairs and fill them with candy.

Essentially, all you do to form the wire cone shape is to cut chicken wire in the shape of a cone (larger than the size you desire) and then form the cone shape by folding over the wire edges to secure it in place. I repeated this same concept for the decorative paper and from there you can get as creative as you want.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like . . . My Favorite Time Of The Year

2009-09-14T10:13:00.008-04:00

I know I may be rushing things a bit but, Halloween is big in my family. The sister's have already decorated their homes and I am well on my way. I thought I would share just a few of my decorating ideas that I think are fun and hopefully you will too. I purchased this silver tray at garage sales over the weekend and so I thought I would share how I incorporated into Halloween decor.

Here I just used candles and orange lights in the fireplace, since it's to warm to build a fire and it's a safer alternative with three kids. I looks amazing at night.

Remember this jar I got last weekend, well I filled it with candy sticks and it looks so festive!

Here I used a key I purchased at Hobby Lobby and I attached a piece of card stock that I printed the words "key to the dungeon" and I hang it next to the basement door. To give it an aged appearance, I just lightly brushed a burnt umber over the paper. My kids get a kick out of it. Check back soon for more fun and bewitching decorating ideas to come!

I Can't Just Stop At One . . . .

2009-09-11T11:53:00.006-04:00

These are just a few pics of my decorating "style" from around my house and I've discovered that I have an obsession with decorating in multiples. I don't think I ever buy just one of anything. Does anyone else have this problem?

Decorating With The Unexpected

2009-09-08T14:42:00.010-04:00

I have been looking for a base for this little glass cloche for what seems to be forever. Everyone that I have found has either been to big or to small. Then, I went to a little boutique near my favorite antique shop and they had this darling little sterling silver dog bowl and behold it was the exact size I needed. I love using things in unexpected ways and so this was perfect for me. Does it get any better than cloches and flower frogs? Also, just wanted to let everyone know that in keeping with the 100th post tradition, I will be having a give away in the very near future, so please make sure to stop back. I think it is an awesome way to say thanks to everyone who takes time out of their crazy schedules to stop by my blog and often leave very uplifting comments. You are very much appreciated!!!!

Three Post In One . . . . . .

2009-09-05T12:32:00.015-04:00

BEFORE . . . . . . . .

Remember this bench I picked up last week well, I finally finished it! Can you guess what color I choose? Well I guess I am becoming a little predictable but, I really do have a plan. I am going to use this little bench in the front yard to display pumpkins. I have a slight obsession with Halloween and now I am just waiting for the pumpkins to arrive.

Since, I was working on the bench for Halloween, I decided to make a quick cake plate since I need a silver one for my Halloween decorations in my kitchen. I used a silver platter, a compote, and a glass dome. I was so simple and yet it will be perfect for what I need it for.

However, the cake plate project triggered my memory of a beaded cake server that is so simple to make and cost very little. All that is needed is large beads of your choice, a glue gun and thick guage wire, (you could use soldering wire however, keep in mind that it does contain tin and lead and would have to be for display only) and finally, you will need water proof apoxy unless you are ambitious and would like to use a soldering gun. You could use this same concept and make a set of salad tongs or serving spoons and they make great gifts. I've now decided that I need Halloween server to go with my new cake plate so I am off to Hobby Lobby to purchase black and orange beads.

A Sweet Little Cabinet Redo

2009-09-03T14:23:00.004-04:00

I found this sweet little cabinet at the thrift store for just $3.00. I knew immediately just what I wanted to do with it. I love the character of the bead board backing but, the addition of the antique crystal knob and chicken wire gave it a little more of a vintage look. Surprisingly this little cabinet has a lot of storage which makes it perfect for displaying fun pieces and keeping other necessities organized but hidden behind close doors.

A Work Space Should Be A Place That Inspires CREATIVITY

2009-09-01T11:39:00.007-04:00

When I created a space in my basement to work on all of my crazy projects, I wanted it to be a place that inspires creativity. One thing that always inspires me is storage. I love to repurpose thing in order to use them in unconventional ways to store my supplies. I find that it adds personality and fun to my work space. I think having a fun and inspiring space is important whether you are lucky enough to have a designated craft room or if you just have a little corner carved out in your dinning room that you call your own.

A Thrifty Find Redo

2009-08-31T09:09:00.006-04:00

I love projects like this. All I had to do is sand this side table with 150 grit sand paper and paint it with two coats of black satin and I was finished. I replaced the colonial looking knob with a crystal one and the transformation is just beautiful. I wish all of my other projects that I have lined up were this simple.