the paper plate special . . .

Can you believe these cute frames are actually paper plates?

I found them at the Xpedx Paper Store (which also happens to be where I want my ashes scattered). 

 They were around $5 for each set of 8 . . . you would really have to search to find less expensive frames.

I simply glued some ribbon on and duct taped the plate and bow right on to the wall.  They are so light that tape really is enough to hold them up, and they are safe for above a crib or in any area that kids or monkeys frequent.

You could glue on photos, create a fancy Birthday sign, or maybe even use them to eat off.

paint sample wall art . . .

 There are so many cool crafts out there right now using paint samples, so I thought I would join the fun and create a giant version.

I used 8 sheets of 12x12 inch paper.

Be sure to come up with names for the colors.

Your kids will love to chose their color and create a name.

I taped a strip of white paper onto the back of each sheet to connect them all together.

 It's really easy.

 I added the year to the bottom, so it created a fun family tree of sorts.  You could add a new strip as your family grows.

Perfect in a family room, play room, classroom or craft area.

book 'em . . .

This is a quick and easy take on arranging books by color. 

I became obsessed with this great idea and tried to collect and use books decoratively but it can be really expensive and difficult to find a lot of the colors.

A similar effect can be achieved by using a selection of colored paper.

Cut it to size and place the book on the sheet.

Fold it around the spine.

If you use painters tape it can be easily removed.

Choose colors that match your decor or test out new and hip color combinations.

Write the titles on the sides and you have a great way to display your paperback books.

pinhole pictures . . .

There are some AMAZING lens's and attachments out there right now, but they are so expensive.  This is a super cheap way to make a pinhole lens and create some really cool photos.

All you need is 1 camera, 

and 1 water bottle.

Cut the two sides of the plug,

and pull it out.  *Thank you Cody for your help and mechanical genius.

The water bottle lid will fit directly onto the lens, just gently twist it on.  You will be shooting right through the spout.

The effect is really cool and artistic.

pop of color . . .

Using an old bike for decoration is a great way to add whimsy and color to any outdoor event or wedding. 

You can find old bikes at thrift stores, yard sales and probably in the back of your garage :-)  This one was borrowed from the fabulous Jann.

The color possibilities are endless, and you can spray flower pots, chairs, watering cans or other decorative items to create a theme.

 This little bike created the perfect wedding entrance.

aviation decoration . . .

This giant sturdy paper airplane is so cute to decorate a nursery, play room or to glide around the yard.

Start with a poster board (2 for $1 at the dollar store).

Fold in half, 

open up, 

turn the corners in,

make another fold into the center,

make sure your creases are really flat,

fold in half again,

bend the wings down,

and you're done!  It's really easy to get help on this project from the fellas in your life.

Tie it with some string to either hang or fly with.

So much fun!

vintage doilies . . .

I love the intricate designs of vintage doilies.  They are really beautiful.

I have quite a collection from my Grandma, and I'm always in search of a way to utilize them.

For this project I selected a round doily and bunched it together, 

using a length of black ribbon cording,

I tied the end,

and attached it to a headband.  It can be easily removed and used to adorn so many other objects.

I'm sure that your Grandmothers will be happy to share their doilies with you.  If not, ask her why she doesn't love you and then hit up your local thrift stores!