very heatherly cheap tricks for chic chicks

minimal decoration . . .

2011-12-11T21:24:00.001-07:00

Christmas decorations can be so over the top. Sometimes it's nice to just enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the season.

I used this cute little wooden bowl,

and filled it with small pebbles.

If you have a real tree there are always branches that need to be trimmed.

I snipped a little bit from the bottom and

and placed it in the bowl. It will stay green without water and can be placed anywhere for a quick and minimal decoration.

haunted paths . . .

2011-10-25T16:34:00.000-06:00

Halloween is meant to be spooky, but with all the little goblins running around don't forget to safely light the dark paths too.

To illuminate the fencing and sidewalk I used this lighting cover from a previous post.

I had a couple sheets of black card stock,

and cut out some really simple lettering.

The letters were taped down with duct tape,

any spooky word or Halloween themed cut out would work.

You could tape the lights down in an orderly manner, but I let gravity decide their placement.

The light cover hooks right on to the fence and the bottom edge holds the lights in place.

Happy (well-lit) Haunting.

monsters eyeballs . . .

2011-10-24T16:19:00.005-06:00

These Monster Eyeballs are the absolute easiest Halloween treats EVER.

Pick up some mini powdered donuts, green gummi circles, and licorice bits.

Start with a donut (eyeball),

add the gummi (iris),

and stick in the licorice (pupil), it will hold the whole treat together.

Your kids and their friends will think you're pretty awesome.

ghostly . . .

2011-10-23T16:30:00.002-06:00

Make your pictures look oh-so-spooky with this overnight project.

I started with this adorable photo of my cousin Sam and her cute little monster Jack.

Then I copied and pasted some scary bats in the background and printed it all out on regular paper in black and white.

I still have lots of cork left over from previous projects so I grabbed the roll and some Gel Medium,

brushed it on to the cork,

make sure it will cover the whole photo.

Place it photo side down and be sure to rub all the little air pockets out. ***Let it dry overnight***

In the morning put a wet paper towel onto the paper.

Once it's saturated remove the paper towel,

and begin to rub the paper off, the harder you rub the more spooky it will look. Go more lightly near the faces, I might have gone a little crazy and rubbed off too much.

Follow up with some Mod Podge to seal it and you have one very, very spooky photo.

don't be a scaredy-cat . . .

2011-10-16T20:30:00.002-06:00

This is a really simple Halloween decoration for your door.

Start with black contact paper (for arts and crafts),

grab your scissors and

cut a circle for the spiders body, long strips for the legs and the web.

Stick the little fella right on to your door. So cute and easily removable!

seasonal bounty . . .

2011-10-13T22:09:00.000-06:00

This is a great project to re-use your paper bags while spreading goodwill throughout your hood.

It's so easy to let late season fruits go unused since it's getting too cold in the evenings to get out to pick the apples and pears...but you really should spread the wealth.

Grab a paper bag, scissors and a hole punch . . .

remove the handles (one is usually already ripped off),

cut along the folds about 3",

fold the front and back down,

then fold the two sides into the bag.

Punch 2 holes on either side.

Use a rich autumn colored ribbon,

and thread it through the holes.

Load it up with some pears, apples or squash,

tie the ribbon in a bow,

and add a touch of greenery. Then send it with your kids next door . . . because you deserve a break after all this crafting!

easiest pet ever . . .

2011-10-09T21:27:00.000-06:00

This little fish is a fun addition to any room.

I started with heavy duty sheet protectors (can be purchased at any office supply or craft store),

and then I cut off the edge that had the 3 hole punches.

A quick Google image search supplied quite an array of beautiful goldfish.

Copy and paste the image to print it out.

I used a golden sheet of card stock,

because it created greater depth and a more realistic picture.

Cut the little fella out,

grab your needle and thread,

and hang the fish.

Put him into his new plastic home and tape the top.

The plastic is so heavy that it retains it's shape and you can punch small holes through it to be extra safe if you have little ones around.

Such a fun decoration for a bookshelf, party, nursery or kids rooms.

diffused light . . .

2011-09-25T17:16:00.005-06:00

The giant luminaries this summer were such a hit, I thought it was time for another lighting project.

While I was searching Lowe's for inspiration, I ran into my cute sister (above) and brother in law.

I decided this replacement cover would be fun to use. It was listed on clearance for $5.47, but kept ringing up at $1.47, I hope that you are just as lucky.

All you need a string of white lights.

I taped the lights down,

and just made sure they were evenly distributed.

You could use the surface to display glass objects,

or maybe use it to serve food or drinks at one of your ultra hip soiree's.

It is really great as a wall hanging,

or straight up to add a soft and interesting light. This could be really beautiful incorporated into your Christmas decorations.

3 crafts w/ canning lids . . . #3 jewelry drawer

2011-09-22T23:23:00.000-06:00

This idea is a really easy way to keep your jewelry organized.

We all have the random, cluttered drawers of costume jewelry, so here's a really quick fix.

I used old canning lids,

and cut circles out of paper scraps.

The scrap booking paper is acid free so it's safe for your jewelry storage.

Arrange as many lids as you need in the drawer,

and add your jewels. You'll never have to untangle the giant clump of necklaces again.

3 crafts w/ canning lids . . . #2 decorative update

2011-09-13T20:55:00.000-06:00

You can use canning lids to update or add interest to frames or mirrors.

I started with some jar lids,

and an old mirror,

then tossed them on to newspaper,

grabbed some paint (thank you Jessica)

and then sprayed all the lids.

I used hot glue to attach them,

so easy and a perfect craft to do with your kids to personalize their rooms.

3 crafts w/ canning lids . . . #1 create coasters

2011-09-11T17:44:00.001-06:00

These kitschy coasters have some serious country charm.

Canning lids are so much fun to re-purpose and the next 3 crafts will utilize them.

I made an outline of the lid on some cork that was leftover from another craft.

Then I cut it out,

grabbed my Mod Podge,

painted it on to the cork and attached it to the lid.

Allow ample time to dry.

Really easy and perfect for a quick gift.

the heels deal . . .

2011-09-06T20:35:00.002-06:00

This is a super quick, easy and non-permanent update for your fancy open-toed shoes.

Select a pair from your extensive collections,

fold some ribbon over into a flattened loop,

place on top of the shoe,

wrap an additional piece of ribbon over the top and hot glue the ribbon to itself on the inside of the shoe.

You can really change up your shoe wardrobe with fun ribbon.

jewelry by mother nature . . .

2011-09-05T20:49:00.001-06:00

That Mother Nature sure has the market cornered on creating beautiful works of art.

I found these sweet little pine cones on a hike last week and they were begging to be crafted with.

I started with some jewelry craft wire,

twisted one end into a small loop,

wrapped the other end around the stem and cut away the excess.

Then I dipped the pine cones into my handy-dandy Mod Podge,

and hung it to dry for 24 hours.

I recycled an old necklace chain and slid on its new natural jewel.

Keep this project in mind on your next hike. I'm sure you'll find some beautiful autumn treasures to use.

the paper plate special . . .

2011-08-31T23:29:00.001-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-28T16:32:00.000-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-25T22:46:00.001-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-23T22:22:00.004-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-22T10:59:00.000-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-15T04:23:00.002-06:00

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 . . .

2011-08-14T00:12:00.002-06:00

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!

guest towels . . .

2011-08-10T06:51:00.001-06:00

This idea will keep your towels looking straight and tidy.

It drives me nuts that when your guests arrive the towels look like this, and then when they leave . . .

it looks like you let your restroom attendant have the evening off.

So this is a set of "guest towels" that will stay tidy the whole night. Fold your towel and sew across the middle and ends.

Sew both your large and hand towel.

Stitch velcro tabs on the top edge, under the bar.

and on the top edge of the hand towel to connect it to the large towel.

Perfectly tidy towels that will last throughout your whole party.

from photo to picasso . . .

2011-08-07T15:56:00.000-06:00

This painting project will build your artistic confidence, while preserving a memory.

I started with a photograph from my last trip to Yellowstone. I had it printed at Costco for $8.99 in 20x30".

Using the photo as a guide I applied paint directly on to it.

Begin with the darkest color and brush it on to the darkest parts of the photo.

Then I added yellow to the green to lighten it up and covered the area's of the photo that were lighter green.

Continue to lighten the paint . . .

and apply until all area's in that color have been covered.

Then I moved on to the blue and started with the darkest,

and continued the process of lightening the hue.

It's kind of like paint by numbers.

This is a great art lesson for kids to see the process of mixing colors.

You really can't mess it up, just keep adding paint until everything is covered.

Next, add the little punches of color,

then add dark black,

lastly, apply bright white.

What a fun way to preserve a great memory and it's art that is accessible to any age or artistic skill level.

back to school memo . . .

2011-08-05T00:09:00.001-06:00

These giant erasable notes are so much fun.

You could use a white board if you have one or this plastic sheeting from a home supply store.

I cut it in half so I would have 2 memo boards.

I used a pink and blue Sharpie marker,

and drew these permanent lines on it,

and added the 3 hole punches.

Write your messages or doodles on with a dry erase marker and you can easily change or update it (my handwriting was too messy so I had to employ photoshop :-)

rock on . . .

2011-08-02T01:21:00.000-06:00

My sister is a geologist and I have a feeling she's going to love this rock chic bracelet.

I started with a handful of pebbles

and cording long enough to tie around my wrist.

Glue the rocks on and you're done.

You can really personalize this project, maybe toss in some turquoise or collect rocks along your favorite trail.

paper modern art . . .

2011-08-01T00:53:00.000-06:00

This project would be great in a nursery or play area because its so light weight and safe above a crib. It also soothes by gently fluttering in the wind.

I used 20 pieces of gray paper and a foam poster board from the dollar store.

I started with a small stack of paper,

then cut it into 6 inch fourths.

I curled the flaps up,

and taped the sheets on to the foam board.

Continue until you reach the top of the board.

It looks different from every angle.

So simple and cool.

3D photo display . . .

2011-07-27T21:49:00.000-06:00

Framing a photo is not the only way to display a great picture. This project adds dimension to your favorite memories.

I started with 6"x6" foam core. It can be purchased at the craft store and the framing department can cut it to size.

*for a less expensive option the dollar store sells a thinner version in a poster size, you can double it up and use a ruler and x-acto knife to cut it yourself

I used this fun picture of my cousin Samantha's son, Jack.

I traced around the square in the first corner and cut it out.

Continue until all of the picture has been divided.

I used Mod Podge to glue the photo onto the foam core.

This is what it looks like before you put it together.

It fits together like a 3D puzzle.

Again I used Mod Podge to hold it together.

It's such a fun way to display your photos.

magnetism . . .

2011-07-26T11:33:00.001-06:00

Magnets are up year round on all of our fridges, but often they are devoid of any decorative value. This is an easy project to add some fun to your kitchen.

I started with some colorful straws,

and used 4 for each magnet.

Cut them into descending lengths.

Shred one end

on each of them.

Begin with the longest length and insert longest to shortest.

You can make a couple slices in the ends so they will easily fit into each other.

I wrapped the end in packing tape before I cut it off,

and lastly, I glued on a magnet.

The finished product looks so cute on the fridge.

cheap artwork . . .

2011-07-22T00:09:00.001-06:00

I needed a quick and easy update on wall that had become very stale.

I don't scrapbook, but I love, love, love scrap booking paper.

If you buy a pad of the paper the colors and designs are coordinated so you really can't mess this up.

Draw around the frame and cut it out.

Since I don't like to commit to anything :-) I just taped the paper in.

I had a couple of mats so I added them to the large frames.

It sure helped to update the area.

Art doesn't need to be tricky or expensive, simple and cheap can be just as chic.

spooning . . .

2011-07-18T22:54:00.000-06:00

This project is a really simple and modern decorative update.

My sister in law was getting rid of these utensils and I snagged them for the crafting cause.

I bent the spoons,

and hooked them over the edge of a white pot.

I love the simplicity and you could do so many variations on this idea.

fancy footwork . . .

2011-07-17T14:47:00.000-06:00

Flip-flops and sandals are a summertime must have. However, at the end of the day you are left with some seriously dirty feet!

These dish scrubbers are sold 4 for $1 at the dollar store.

I used fishing line and a large needle,

and sewed the scrubbers together to form a mat.

You can scrub your feet clean in the shower and the mat can be tossed in your washing machine weekly to sanitize it.

time capsules . . .

2011-07-12T21:55:00.001-06:00

It's so cute to see what little treasures kids collect on their summer vacations. This project is a great way to organize and save their memories.

I started with photos of my two favorite little globe trotters taken during their trips and printed on regular copy paper.

These containers were perfect, but you could use big empty vitamin bottles, or old cookie tins. Just look around your house and you'll be sure to find something.

Measure it,

cut a strip of cute paper then glue the photo on.

Glue the paper right onto the container.

I used stickers to record the date and location of the vacation.

It's a great visual reminder of how much fun they had.

Be creative and capture their personalities.

It's so much fun to see all the souvenirs.

Great for sentimental storage.

How amazing would it be to start your kids with a collection of their childhood summer memories?

Happy travels.

revamp . . .

2011-07-10T22:37:00.000-06:00

Sometimes a quick coat of paint can give new life to even the homeliest of home goods :-)

I saved this fantastic lamp from a co-workers trunk right before it was to meet it's demise.

I had some leftover grey paint that has zero VOC, so it's environmentally friendly and has really low fumes.

I gave it a good coat.

Then I hung out with this giant poodle as the paint dried.

After searching for a new lamp shade, I realized they are ridiculously expensive so I just sprayed the old one white,

and let it thoroughly dry.

I cut some strips of cute paper . . .

they can be taped right on to the lamp . . .

a splash of color can really change it up.

It's a really easy fix.

giant luminaries . .

2011-07-07T00:55:00.004-06:00

These giant luminaries are so easy and really cool.

I bought a lighting panel from Lowes for about $6,

it's really just a big piece of flexible plastic.

I picked up some industrial strength Velcro,

cut it into strips,

stuck them along one side.

then put the edges together making a circle.

A little battery operated LED lamp worked perfectly,

I placed it into the center.

You can use them indoors,

or outdoors, either way they are a really modern and hip lighting solution.

** The best part is you can undo the Velcro and store them completely flat. Super cool and super easy.

trade in the veggie tray . . .

2011-07-05T22:14:00.000-06:00

Veggies are a main staple at any social gathering, but they stifle the party flow when everyone has to camp out around the platter.

Trade in your veggie trays for these self contained healthy snacks that you can eat while working the room.

I started with plastic cocktail cups,

and used the standard Ranch dip.

Squirt some into the bottom of each cup,

add celery,

broccoli,

carrots,

and skewer a tomato and giant olive.

Happy munching for the social butterflies.

hope floats . . .

2011-07-04T19:28:00.000-06:00

This quick and easy outdoor decoration would be perfect for a wedding, shower, or any summer get together.

Crack open your Christmas decorations if you already have these clear plastic ornaments or Michael's craft store has them right now.

Pull some ribbon through the loop,

and tie it in a knot.

They are really light weight and look like a bubble.

You could place them all over your venue.

They are so simple,

but look so fresh and whimsical outside.

Your Christmas decorations will be so excited to see summer!

happy healthy 4th . . .

2011-07-01T01:05:00.006-06:00

It's tough to get your kids excited about a healthy snack when they have a weekend of treats ahead of them, but I think we're up to the challenge.

I started with a seedless watermelon . . .

spooned out 2 halves . . .

stuck them together and inserted a sucker stick.

I tossed them in the freezer and after an hour they were frozen solid.

This is a refreshing and healthy treat perfect for the 4th of July weekend!

3 days of re-purposed containers (day 3) . . .

2011-06-29T01:00:00.001-06:00

This little desk set is really easy to make and super handy to have.

I used an empty deodorant container and ran it through the dishwasher.

I cut some scrap booking paper to the height of the container,

and used tape to affix the paper.

I cut a strip for the lid,

and taped it on.

Load it up with office supplies and you have a fun little desk set.

3 days of re-purposed containers (day 2) . . .

2011-06-27T22:39:00.001-06:00

Here are some really cute and modern containers for starting seeds or small sprouts.

I had 3 empty lotions . . .

and I cut off the tops.

Wash and dry them.

Paint the outside of the containers.

Give them ample time to dry.

Put some pebbles to the bottom for weight and drainage.

I added some potting soil,

and planted some little lavender sprouts. If you over water them you can just open the bottom to let the excess drain out.

It's fun to stretch your creativity and recycle!

Stay tuned for the next container re-purpose.

3 days of re-purposed containers...

2011-06-26T21:26:00.000-06:00

The next 3 crafts will re-purpose common household containers.

This utensil caddy was really easy and perfect for a casual party.

I pulled an empty butter container from the recycle bin and washed it out.

I chose this pretty blue from a previous project.

Both the lid and bucket were sprayed on both sides.

While the paint was drying I used thumbtacks in the fence to display a couple of cute baking tins from IKEA.

Baking tins come in such cute shapes and they are great to decorate with.

Once the paint is thoroughly dry Superglue the lid into the bucket.

You can use sticker letters on the lid.

The lid separates the utensils and keeps them organized.

One side for the forks . . .

and one side for the spoons.

Fun, easy and helpful.

Stay tuned for the next re-purposed container craft.

quickie . . .

2011-06-20T17:01:00.005-06:00

This dish towel is a real quick neighbor gift idea . . .

I used some clearance dishtowels and a bleach pen,

and wrote a nickname directly on to the fabric.

One of my favorite local bloggers is Nancy from http://www.myblondeambitions.blogspot.com/

her "Fancy Nancy" style is really inspiring. Wishing her good luck on their next big adventure.

Wait for the fabric to bleach out (about 5 minutes),

Thoroughly wash it off .

And there you have it, a speedy personalized gift.

growing, growing, grown . . .

2011-06-19T19:56:00.002-06:00

There is nothing more sad than painting over your kids growth lines or moving away and having to leave them behind. This one sticks right to the fridge so you can put it away and keep it forever.

I used a 3 foot long balsa wood board (from the craft store) and stuck adhesive magnet roll on both edges.

I painted the other side asphalt gray.

I added the magnetic strips to little painted wooden vehicles. This way kids can move them around and measure each other, and use the growth chart as an interactive and learning tool.

This cool product can be purchased in the sewing department at your local craft store. It's adhesive measuring tape . . . brilliant.

I stuck it right down the middle of the board.

You can record the dates with a Sharpie and they will love to move their cars up taller and taller when the grow. Check out Petite Lemon for some cute designer charts.

cupcake chic . . .

2011-06-16T17:01:00.006-06:00

This is a fun way to dress up an outdoor area and recycle your baking supplies.

I always seem to have a few cupcake cups left over after each occasion and I have the hardest time tossing the left over cups out.

So, I end up with a shelf filled with odds, ends and mismatched cups.

I tuned a few inside out . . .

clipped a paper clip on . . .

and attached it onto the foliage.

It's a really easy way to instantly add flowers.

If you use candles make sure they are in a votive since you'll be placing them near paper.

It can create a really frilly and fun space.

summer flower . . .

2011-06-15T17:01:00.014-06:00

To dress up a boring piece of clothing, just add a little touch of color.

I started with this gray sweatshirt from Target . . .

and thought this cool blue yarn was really beautiful against the gray.

With a large needle I embroidered four really simple flower petals.

As you can see, there is no rhyme or reason to the stitches.

With a contrasting yarn I created some loops in the center.

It added a little touch of summer color.

a great caper . . .

2011-06-14T17:01:00.009-06:00

Last night I was hanging out with this little super hero . . .

and realized he was having some trouble flying with only his imaginary cape.

So, I decided to test out this quick t-shirt cape idea from thesoutherninstitute.com

All it took was one large t-shirt . . .

and a quick cut around the collar removing the sleeves and front of the shirt. The back remains attached and becomes a cool cape.

This super hero added a monogram.

He warmed up his jumping legs while I quickly stitched the E on.

This is such a quick and fun idea that would be perfect for an activity at a kids party, rainy afternoon or anytime your little one is in need of some additional super hero powers.

keep'n it stiff . . .

2011-06-13T17:01:00.002-06:00

This helpful hint will help keep your drinks strong and avoid having them watered down.

Whatever drink you will be serving make a batch the night before and pour it into ice cube trays.

Put it in the freezer.

Once it's frozen, you'll have ice cubes that are made from the same drink . . . so as they melt it will not water down your beverage.

They also look really cute.

Hope you're enjoying your summer. Cheers.

buddha for the nursery . . .

2011-06-12T15:05:00.001-06:00

Remember when you were little and you would try to imagine what shape the clouds looked like? Well, this painting would be perfect in a nursery so your little one can look up at the sky from their bed.

I started with these simple wooden cutouts from the craft store . . .

and painted them white.

On a canvas I applied white paint and two different blues.

Mix it right on the canvas, the variations in the blue work really well for the sky.

Leave the bottom third white.

Apply green and white paint . . .

you can mix these right on the canvas too . . .

with big strokes, pull the green paint up from the bottom. Give the paint plenty of time to dry.

I used Mod Podge to glue the wooden pieces onto the canvas.

With a Sharpie I wrote "tilt your head back and laugh at the sky". Just what every nursery needs, a little Buddha to compliment the Pottery Barn Kids.

urban fire pit . . .

2011-06-10T17:01:00.010-06:00

This weekend turn your backyard into an urban oasis.

I gathered a tray full of green and blue glass containers from around the house. . .

the ground was uneven so I dropped down a paver-stone.

Arrange the glass containers.

Light some tea light candles and place them in and around the glass.

Pull up a couple of camp chairs and enjoy the sunset around your cool fire pit.

Even with limited resources you can make this summer truly magical. Enjoy every second of it.

aesthetically altered fruit . . .

2011-06-09T17:01:00.004-06:00

These polka-dotted apples are so easy to make and really cute!

Start with some contrasting colored apples (preferably organic since the skins will not be removed).

Use a small cookie cutter . . . or get creative and look for household objects that can be used to cut different shapes.

Stick it in the apple . . .

and remove the dot.

Put the dots into the contrasting colored apple and you're done. Your kids will think you are magic when they see them.

girly gearhead . . .

2011-06-07T17:01:00.001-06:00

We made these cute chainring headbands and they turned out really fantastic!

Small chainrings or any cool parts can make interesting designs.

Chose some fun and seasonal colors,

spray them in a well ventilated area, and make sure they are thoroughly dry.

The parts were Super-glued together in the shape of flowers.

Glue them onto inexpensive headbands that can be found at the grocery store.

Headbands are so stylish right now, and this is a great twist. Let your inner biker chick out!

cheerful chore chart . . .

2011-06-06T17:01:00.009-06:00

Summertime is a great opportunity to give your kids some life skills by assigning them some age appropriate chores . . . this project will help them keep track in a stylish manner.

I fell in love with this adorable dry erase board/frame idea from http://www.makeandtakes.com and decided to mix it up with a different take on the same idea.

I started with this frame that has 6 spaces,

selected fun summer patterned paper,

cut the paper into 3x5's, took the back off the frame and taped them right onto the mat.

You can write directly onto the glass with dry erase markers and easily update your chores.

Keep in mind it is summer so be sure to infuse some cool tasks for your kids to achieve.

They will love to see their list if you add some unexpected fun.

Hopefully this will create less drama during chore time.

math fun (oh yes, this just happened) . . .

2011-06-05T16:00:00.002-06:00

This summer get to know your local dollar store well, they have so many great things that you can turn into a craft or a game for your bored kids.

I picked up 3 plastic bowls . . .

and 3 bunches of plastic scrubbers and they will make a great outdoor math and aim game.

Make some signs denoting each bowls value, that way kids will have to keep the score as they toss the scrubbers in.

Depending on the age of your players you could introduce some algebraic equations or assign really large numbers to keep track of.

This is a great way to get the kids outside interacting with their peers while mastering some math skills . . . this is a definite win for Moms, way to go :-)

take a look-y at these cookies...

2011-06-03T17:01:00.004-06:00

My sisters cookie recipe is so easy and always a hit.

Mix 1 1/2 cups of white sugar,

add 4 sticks of softened butter,

2 cups of brown sugar,

4 eggs,

3 tsp of vanilla,

1 1/2 tsp of baking soda,

gradually add 7 cups of flour to the mixture,

and fold in 1 bag of chocolate chips. Bake for 12 minutes at 350 degrees.

Every batch is fantastic and the recipe is super easy . . .

have a great weekend.

pet pillow panache...

2011-06-02T17:01:00.015-06:00

Pet beds can be super expensive and yet rarely, they come in designs that will match your decor. However, you can easily sew one of your own that will fit right into your living space.

I had some fabric left over from a previous project.

I folded the fabric in half and cut it a little under 2' x 2'

Next, sew 2 seams along the edges.

Be sure to leave one side open.

Turn the fabric right side out to sew the interior square.

You can alter the width, but I aimed for a little under 4".

This is a perfect project to recycle the stuffing from an old bed pillow, also, your pet will be comforted by your scent.

Stuff both the outer and inner areas.

Next, sew a seam to close off the inner square.

Fold the edges under to sew the final open side.

Be sure to leave a couple inches open,

so that you can finish stuffing the edge.

Stitch the last bit together and you're done.

And there you have it, a purrrfectly color coordinated pet :- )

scrap-tastic mobile...

2011-06-01T17:01:00.000-06:00

This simple mobile was made out of the vinyl scraps leftover from a previous project.

I love mobiles, they are like a modern art piece that constantly changes.

Use a thick thread.

These are the vinyl place mat scraps, but paper scraps would be great for an indoor mobile.

I used a thumbtack to create a hole,

and then strung the scraps together on three separate strings.

I glued some of the smaller bits on for an added detail.

I created a loop on one of the large pieces and attached the 3 separate strings at the bottom.

You can recycle your scraps and make a really whimsical mobile.

design by candlelight....

2011-05-31T17:01:00.010-06:00

There was a great design/inspiration challenge from Tina on www.adogslife-thirteen.blogspot.com

The inspiration she posted is her fun Ikea lamp. I love the little circles and lines, they have so much movement. It made me think there had to be a way to give the forms actual movement and life.

I started with a simple glass.

Using the leftover bits from a sticker sheet I re-created the circles and lines in a new design.

I dropped in a tea light and faced the sticker side toward the wall.

The candle light flickers the design onto wall and creates a really cool effect. Thanks for the challenge Tina, hopefully I win :-)

table topped...

2011-05-30T14:58:00.000-06:00

It was such a fun project to update this old side table.

My friend Joan needed a hand with this cute little table that had passed it's prime.

I gave it a quick sanding.

After 2 coats of white paint it already looked like a new table.

I found these cute and inexpensive Better Homes and Garden vinyl place mats, they are reversible which makes them double awesome.

I made a pattern of the table top and cut it out of the place mat.

I saved all of the scraps for a future craft (I'm kind of a hoarder that way :-)

The mats fit perfectly and since they are waterproof you don't even need to worry about using a coaster.

The best part is that you can flip the mats over and you have a whole new table and a whole new look.

the writing on the wall...

2011-05-27T17:01:00.003-06:00

This graffiti project is a great way to allow your kids some creative freedom (without having to repair or repaint a wall) .

The adhesive joint drywall tape will allow them to "tag" their bedroom and feel pretty cool doing it.

They could make letters to write their name, a hip phrase . . . or create an awesome drawing.

So let your little rebellious artist go crazy without any damage to your walls . . . have a great Memorial Day weekend.

gifted...

2011-05-26T17:01:00.008-06:00

We're headed right into wedding season which means you'll be wrapping lots of gifts for receptions and bridal showers. Here is a really different way to add some flair to your packages.

This is the 2nd craft this week using adhesive joint drywall tape.

Start with your gift box.

use the tape to seal it . . .

bring it full circle around the box.

Metallic or patterned tissue paper is more expensive than plain white, so I tend to use it only for small details to help spread it out.

I cut out two flowers and taped them together.

I stuck them right onto the yellow tape . . .

then cut out a center for the flower.

There are so many ways you could

use this tape for wrapping gifts.

Check back tomorrow for the 3rd adhesive drywall joint tape craft.

tape times 3...

2011-05-25T17:01:00.045-06:00

Direct people to a secret party location, create a treasure hunt or mark the directions to a reception . . . the possibilities are endless with this cool product.

The next 3 crafts will use Adhesive Drywall Joint Tape which can be found at any home repair store. It's so cool because it will stick to any surface but can be easily removed without any damage or glue left left behind.

You can get super creative with this idea and your kids will really love it. Check back tomorrow for another craft with this cool tape.

flowery words...

2011-05-24T17:01:00.006-06:00

These decorative flowers are a great recycling project.

Start with a damaged book.

Crack the spine and remove a section of the pages.

Using 4 pages fold them accordion style.

Cut the corners off one end.

Use some standard kitchen skewers.

Slide the pages onto the skewer.

Open the flower up and tape it together.

Add a center to the flower and you're done.

This is a really fun and easy project.

the way too cheery-chairs...

2011-05-23T16:01:00.000-06:00

I received a design emergency phone call from Lovely Lauryn. She was given these ever so cheery chairs that were a little too bright for her cute kitchen.

We removed the seat and covered the back with a plastic bag.

Then we sprayed the legs with a glossy black paint.

Make sure they have ample time to dry.

Staple the new fabric onto the seat and cut away the excess.

It's a really easy process and can make a really big difference.

Next, place the fabric inside out over the back and pin it down on both sides.

Make a seam using the pins as a guide.

Cut away the excess fabric and make sure it fits tightly.

The bottom seam along the back rest had to be sewn by hand.

Once the seats were screwed back on we were done.

Two updated cute chairs and one happy cute girl . . . slam dunk in the world of crafting.

cork board frames...

2011-05-22T17:05:00.000-06:00

A great way to easily change the pictures you have displayed is to make these cork board picture frames.

Use some old picture frames, remove the glass and the cardboard backing.

Spray paint them to match your decor.

Let them thoroughly dry.

You can find rolls of cork at any craft supply store, this large roll was under $10.

Use the cardboard backing from the frame as a pattern to cut around.

Craft stores always have one set of the mats on a major clearance (this one was 25 cents) . . . usually it's because they are heavily patterned however, they are all plain cream or white on the back.

Put it in the frame upside down,

insert the cork and finally the cardboard backing.

It should look like this.

Select your favorite photos and thumbtack them onto the cork.

It is so easy to change the pictures, you could use it for your children's artwork too.

Picture perfect!