Project Naptime

Glow Sticks

2012-01-25T13:25:00.002-07:00

Christmas brought alot of glow sticks for Ian. I found them for a dollar at the dollar store. I tok a bunch with us on the plane ride to New York since alot of that flight was in the dark. He had a great time playing with them in the dark. My sister gave him more on Christmas morning!

When we got home i decided to give him a bath and turn all the lights out in the bathroom and throw some glow sticks in the water with him. He thought that was the greatest thing ever. He always wants to take a bath. I guess I need to make another run to the dollar store because we're all out!

Felt Car Mat

2012-01-25T13:14:00.001-07:00

December was a busy month for me. I had so many gifts to make that I ran out of time making Christmas things for my house! Oh well, next year I have a long list of things to do.

In my family I'm the youngest of seven and we now have 17 nieces and nephews. Christmas can get alittle expensive with that crowd so many years ago we started drawing names for Christmas presents. This year I had my 21 years old niece (I was 9 when she was born) and my little nephew. I always wanted to make a felt car mat and so December 1st I started! I had so much felt left over from making Ian's playhouse so I didn't have to spend much, only lots of time! It took me a couple weeks to finish.

I made all my buildings and signs and trees free hand. I'm from New York and since all my family lives there I decided to include a little bit of everything New York has to offer; camping, zoos, neighborhoods and NYC of course (my favorite place on Earth).

I sewed the road, lake and outlined the buildings but used felt glue for all the little things because sewing them would have been tedious. Each building is a garage for the matchbox cars I included. I also found a pack of plastic animals at the dollar section of Target for the zoo.

He was very happy with his gift. My only regret is not making one for Ian too! Ian wanted to play with is when he saw me working at the table. Maybe I'll get around to making him one too.

Linking to :
Raising Memories
A Vision to Remember

Best Chocolate Chip Cookies EVER

2011-12-17T13:55:00.001-07:00

So I can throw away all my other chocolate chip cookie recipes because I have found the BEST one ever. I will never need another again! It has a secret ingredient and while weird, it makes it what it is. I found it on Pinterest! Totally addicting but it got me through feeding Jack all through the nights.... and still does.

Best-Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

barely adapted from Anna Olson, Food Network Canada

Ingredients:

3/4 c. unsalted butter, softened

3/4 c. brown sugar

1/4 c. granulated sugar

1 egg

2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 c. all purpose flour

2 tsp. cornstarch

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 c. bittersweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy and light in color. Add egg and vanilla and blend in.

3. Mix in flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt. Stir in chocolate chunks.

4. Using a standard-sized cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto a prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until barely golden brown around the edges. (The tops will not brown, but do NOT cook longer than ten minutes.)

5. Let cool, on the sheet, on a wire rack for five minutes. Remove from baking sheet and let cool completely. Makes approximately 3 dozen. Try not to eat them all.

These are seriously the best I've had! I can't stop eating them!!

One last note: They remain soft the day after and then the next day too.... if they last that long. The key is to not over cook them! 10 minutes is all you need :)

Ladybug Towel

2011-11-30T21:28:00.001-07:00

I took a short break from making Christmas presents to make a cute little ladybug hooded towel for a girl in my church who also lives a few doors down from me. I didn't know her at all until a few weeks ago. But when I heard about her situation I got her number and called her up (something I don't usually do because I'm rather quiet) but I decided I wanted to make her and her husband dinner once a week in the effort of getting to know them. So every Tuesday I would walk the two doors down and bring them a hot dinner so her husband could have a break at least once a week.

I guess I should tell the story....

She is on strict bed rest until she delivers her baby. She isn't due until the middle of January. When I first heard about her struggles with pregnancy I instantly felt like I wanted to help somehow. She lost her first baby over a year ago before we moved on the block and then in July around the time I delivered Jack, she was pregnant with twins and lost one of the girls. She has been on bed rest since that time and was in the hospital for a few months. She was able to come home in October but had to be on strict bed rest. I can't imagine the struggles she has gone through. I would actually look forward to every Tuesday. You always think the struggles you face are so difficult until you meet someone else fighting a harder battle.

As I was planning dinner for that Tuesday night I got a call from her telling me she hoped I didn't start on dinner yet because she was in the hospital. The doctor decided they needed to take the baby since she wasn't growing properly. She delivered a 3 pound baby girl, and they are both doing well!

She is having a baby shower this week and I tried to think of a gift. I usually give burpies and pacifier leashes but I wanted to venture out and do something new! For some reason I wanted to make a ladybug towel and I scanned blogs to see if I could find a tutorial, unfortunately I couldn't find one anywhere. I only found an etsy shop where they sell for $40! So I came up with the idea myself!

Here are my supplies, there are so many tutorials out there for hooded towels, but here is one for a cute ladybug!

- 1 bath towel

- 1 hand towel

- black felt

- white scrap towel pieces

-coordinating thread

I'm not detailing every little step because I'm sure most of you know how to do this! If not there is plenty of help out there. Cut out the sizes you want for your eyes and pin to towel.

I cut 7 black circles out of felt and pined and sewed to back of towel.

I zigzagged the eyes on to hopefully prevent fraying of the white towel.

Make sure you sew very slowly when attaching the hood to the towel, it gets pretty tricky going through so many layers.

Here she is!

All I have are boys, so my little one here is modeling the towel. He didn't want to take it off!

I just realized I didn't get a good picture of the antenne, but I just used felt and tied knots at the top and hand sewed them to the hood.

Off he goes!

Linking to:
http://www.thethriftyhome.com/

Cute and easy pumpkins

2011-11-11T14:27:00.001-07:00

Alot of you remember this post from You Craft Me Up. The second I saw these pumpkins I knew I had to make them. However, I'm not living in Utah and couldn't hop on over to her craft night. Hopefully someday I will be living there and can attend! (Never thought I'd say that)

I was so nervous about going to Home Depot and asking them to cut my wood. On my way to the lumber section I ran into an older man i used to work with and he asked me what I was doing at Home Depot on a Saturday morning. I said, getting some wood cut for these pumpkins I'm making. He just laughed. Luckily the folks there are so nice and didn't question why a lady with a baby needed 4x4 wood cut into different lengths. a month later the wood was still sitting in my garage. Little baby was less than willing to let me do anything other than cuddle with him.

I didn't take a before picture, but I'm sure you can imagine wood without grooves.

My mess

You need some sunglasses to look directly at these pumpkins! Wish it was a little more dull.

This week has been a turning point. Little baby can now lay on the floor and he has begun to grab toys! I am even getting him on a nap schedule and I can get stuff done! I'm so excited. I started chiseling away at the wood to make the cool grooves, painted them orange (a little brighter than I like), nailed the tree stems to the tops and put them out by my front door. I think next year I'll make the sign to go with them, I just wanted to at least have them on display for the last two weeks of November.

I am so so happy with how they turned out! And on my first try. They are super easy to make, it does take some time to chisel away the wood, but that step is so crucial to making them look crafty instead of blocky.

Halloween.... alittle late.

2011-11-11T14:12:00.001-07:00

i have a problem with not writing up posts for all the things I've been doing lately. I finally feel like I can get back to crafting and sewing now that my little one is 3 and a half months old. Before he was constantly demanding my attention and my 2 and a half was going through transition with a new baby in the house. Well I'm so happy to announce I'm BACK! I'm so excited to get back into the crafty blogging community! it's been too long! I don't know where to start first!

Halloween this year was a big success. My 2 year old was a mad scientist and a very happy one too. Every year we trick-or-treat at my husband's work. The employees extensively decorate their areas and all the children walk through and get candy. This year was really the first year Ian was old enough to walk through it and not be scared and was looking at everything. I made his white lab coat out of one of my husband's old church shirts. He wore his geeky glasses, made from his sunglasses that he broke one of the lenses out of. He also had an empty soda bottle with two glow sticks inside to look like a concoction. I was afraid a liquid would be too heavy and annoying for him to carry around.

My little 3 month old was a Jack in the box. I was perfectly content with him being an old Navy store bought frog since I'm trying to make my life stress free and not striving to be perfect for a baby who will not remember anything about this day..... but I couldn't do it. I had to make the perfect costume for him, after all, when his big brother celebrated his first Halloween I made his costume. My little Jack did way better than I thought. He LOVED sitting in his little box and even almost fell asleep. People didn't even realize he was a real baby until they looked again at him.

Both costumes cost less than $2 each. I used alot of things I already had on hand. They turned out way better than I expected. My goal next year is to plan their costumes at least a month ahead of time. I made both in just 3 days. That was a little too stressful.

Featured at CopyCat Crafts!

2011-10-14T12:55:00.002-06:00

I wouldn't have known about this if I didn't go to my comments page. This project I made last year! Thanks Copycat Crafts! It's always so nice to be featured!

Tot Trays

2011-10-05T22:33:00.001-06:00

I am constantly trying to think of things for my little tot to do. I'm a little worried with winter coming and not having a stockpile of ideas to keep a soon to be 2 1/2 year old busy and happy. I have a yellow paint tray that I'm using in other ways besides painting. I am getting different activities together he can use the tray with. I had a bag of pony beads and got different cups, spoons, funnel etc. He had a blast pouring the beads from one cup to the next. I'll be looking for new ideas to use for my tot trays at least once a week and maybe more with more ideas I come up with.

A week later and he is still asking for the beads. I was nervous at first to give this to him since he stuck a popcorn kernel up his nose, but so far so good. I don't leave him unattended while he is playing.

Linking up:

<

Homemade Christmas

2011-09-24T21:58:00.001-06:00

So this Christmas will be a little tight since my little family of four is going to New York to spend the holiday with my family and attend my niece's wedding a few days after Christmas. It got me thinking that I could try to make most of the gifts this year. It's the motivation I need to get going on the crafting again!

I already bought an awesome Ikea kid's table and two chairs. Ian has been using one of my large plastic storage boxes and a metal basket for his chair. I thought it was about time he got an art table! I'm going to have a hard time waiting until Christmas, but I think I can hold out.

Today I completed the first Christmas gift! Ian knows all his ABCs and we're now working on his numbers so I've been wanting to make number bean bags. I'm sure he'll learn them all before the month is over, but he can still have fun throwing them around. It only took me a few hours to put it all together and they came out awesome! Ian even helped a little! I let him play with them this afternoon but I'm now putting them away until Christmas! It feels so great to actually get something done between the two little ones needing my attention.

Christmas List at this time:
~~Number beanbags~~
Noah's Arc and animals
Mr. Potato Head
Monster bath towel for Jack

I'm sure I'll find more things to make in the next few months, but this is what I have planned right now. I'll be posting pictures through my journey to Christmas and hopefully get some Halloween and Thanksgiving crafts done too!

MIA

2011-08-21T20:25:00.000-06:00

Sorry I've been MIA for a month... or more. I had good reason!

July 14th brought baby boy #2 to our family! We have been trying to adjust to a new schedule or no sleep. It's getting better and I can't wait to have a better schedule so I can start crafting again! Hang in there I'll be back soon!

My loot

2011-07-11T22:14:00.000-06:00

So a few weeks ago I entered a giveaway fully expecting to not win.... I never win anything. But to my great surprise on a Monday morning, I got news that I won a $50 gc to Pier 1! I don't usually shop there, ok, I've only bought one thing there and it was for my cousin who was getting married. It's not that I don't love their stuff, it is just too darn expensive. Well it took me a whole month to decide how to spend it and I'm so excited to share with you what I chose...

First thing up: A trifle bowl!! I'm so excited about this because I make a few trifles throughout the year and can't really showcase them they way they are meant to be shown.

Second thing: Small dip bowls with mini spoons on a plate. I love the modern look of these, how they angle up.

Last is the pretty platter. I love the design and colors. I can't wait to use them all!

Thanks to delightfully noted for hosting this giveaway! I may have to stop by Pier 1 more often... you know and look at their clearance stuff.

4th of July Luminaries

2011-06-30T14:39:00.000-06:00

I love making these luminaries since I made my first for Halloween and then for Valentine's Day. They add so much color and festivities to the room. They are super simple.

Supplies:
clean jars with labels removed (as many as you want)
tissue paper
mod podge
brush
paper for stars, or you can make some that spell freedom, liberty.. you get the picture

I think they came out really nice. I don't have many 4th decorations so this adds alot to my home.

Awesome Blog

2011-06-20T22:11:00.000-06:00

I have a new favorite food blog. I'm always looking for new recipes to feed my husband. While this blog does have some dinner recipes, it mostly contains very yummy desserts! I'm gonna start baking once a week with little I because he loves to "help" me in the kitchen and he also gets to wear his super cute apron I made him which I have to still write about.

Father's Day

2011-06-19T20:43:00.001-06:00

We had a great father's day last month. We went on our annual visit to the zoo and Ian enjoyed it alot this year. It gets more fun as he gets bigger and bigger.

We had our annual Peanutbutter chocolate pie.... yummy! So rich but so good. We have it every year and look forward to it so much.

Ian and I made Dan some snacks for his desk at work. Ian had fun finger painting the box and "helping" ~~eat~~ fill the jars with goodies.

Super Burpies!

2011-06-18T12:37:00.000-06:00

I've come a long way since I last made burpies for little I. I have greatly improved them and sad his were not so pretty. Cut me some slack that is the first project I did when I bought my sewing machine 2 years ago!

I realized I only have 4.5 weeks left and still a few projects I need to complete before Jr. Jr. comes. So today I finally finished his burpies. I really love them. They are super cute! Last time I made mine with a secret ingredient.... an old towel in between the layers. They were bulky but worked really well. This time I took a piece of flannel, or cotton fabric and sewed terry cloth or a hand towel to the other side. They look really good. The terry cloth gives it a nice textured look.

I made 8 with the "original" pattern, curved edges. I also made 4 rectangular cloths with cotton fabric on one side and terry cloth on the other. I realize only one side is really usable for the intended purpose of spit up, but there are so many more options for cute fabric. Or in my case, an old dress, husband's old shirt and some extra cute fabric I had lying around.

Simply cut out your desired shape, really you can't mess this up! Cut another piece with an old hand towel, terry cloth or what ever you have.

Sew right sides together, leaving an opening for turning

Turn right side out and iron flat

stitch around the outer edge, sewing up the open gap

You're done!

Homemade bread

2011-06-02T21:51:00.000-06:00

I ran out of bread and our food money envelope (thanks Dave Ramsey) is empty until Monday so I had to make some bread. This isn't the first time, I've made a lot of bread in my days but don't have a favorite recipe so I am always on the lookout for a new one. Today I went on all recipes and found a white bread recipe and it had 5 stars and had "grandma" in the title, I knew I couldn't go wrong :)

It was so good. Not dense and tough, it was very chewy and soft on the inside and the outside a bit crunchy. At least for today since it was fresh out of the oven. I highly recommend it! Ian even asked for more sandwich at lunchtime, that's when you know it's got to be delicious!

Felt Playhouse

2011-06-02T21:27:00.000-06:00

It took me many many hours of blood, sweat and tears... ok only sweat maybe. But the hubs said I spent like 80 hours on it. I wish I would have kept track. It probably wasn't 80 but it was ALOT! I started it many many months ago and had a goal to finish it for little man's birthday. Good news is I finished a whole month early.

I am not totally finished. Some of the sides look alittle empty so I will have to come up with some ideas to fill in the space. I took some inspiration from homemade by Jill. I also came up with my own ideas as well.

Ian spotted the playhouse on the table when he woke up the next day... ok, I didn't put it away on purpose. He had to eat his pancakes in his house for breakfast. He loves it!!

Grocery savings!

2011-03-22T17:16:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to learn how to been a coupon genius but didn't really know how to get started. I've used them when I find them in magazines or in papers. I have read two blogs that teach you how to use them and so I ordered some coupons, spent $5 for $53 worth of savings and also ordered a month of the sunday paper. But I found a site where you can just buy the inserts for really cheap! So this is my first real coupon outing and drum roll......

Total before savings: $ 53.00

Total savings: $35.77

Total spent: $17.43

I think I did pretty good! Alot of this I can use in my food storage... really, how much spaghetti sauce can 2.5 people eat? This got me really excited and now I feel little more confident for my next trip! The important thing is to wait until the store cuts prices and then swoop in with your coupons. I got the pasta and cat food for free!

Great Find

2011-03-19T13:30:00.000-06:00

I love going to DI. Don't do it as often as I once used to, but once in a while. I went this week with Ian and we found some steals! I've been wanting to make monkey bread for months but didn't have a bundt pan. I'm sure you could use another pan but I wanted it to be authentic. :) Anyways, instead of spending $14.00 or more at Target for one, I found one in perfect condition at DI for $1.50! I was so excited. I'm sure Dan thought I had lost my mind but he smiled and said he was happy for my find.

Look at that monkey bread! It was so good. I think I've found my new Christmas morning breakfast! Just pop it in, open presents and 35 minutes later breakfast is ready.

My other find... not as exciting but with Easter coming I don't really have any Easter eggs. We want to start doing egg hunts with Ian so I found two huge bags for $1.00 each! We're talking 100+ eggs. Ian has already loved playing with them and throwing them all over the floor.

Crayon Roll

2011-03-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

I finally got back in the craft room to do some fun projects! I wanted to make a crayon roll for Ian and finally, after staring at my cut fabric sitting on the table for a month... maybe longer, I finally sewed it all together. I followed skip to my lou and it came out pretty good. A little rough around the edges... literally, but it'll serve it's purpose.

It's very simple to make. Instead of using a tie for my closure, I used velcro. It's easier for little fingers to open and close.

Drumroll.........

2011-03-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

We found out this week what we're having......

It's a BOY!!!!!!!!!!!

We're so excited for little man to have a younger brother to play in the mud with and share bunk beds and catch bugs and frogs, or whatever little boys do. I am definitely outnumbered but I don't care. I've always wanted a bunch of boys to protect their momma when they get older.

I'm so happy to finally know because now I can get busy and make some awesome baby stuff!

Valentine Luminaries

2011-02-03T13:15:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun making these luminaries for Halloween that I wanted to make them for Valentine's Day. My only problem was I didn't have enough jars. I ran over to our thrift store where I usually find my jars and thank goodness they had a few.

Supplies:
jars- I used 4 but you can use as many as you want
mod podge
brush
tissue paper

card stock to make shapes

1.) Simply mod podge your jars and wrap in tissue paper. Let sit a few hours or over night.
2.) Place card stock on jar and mod podge the whole jar again. This gives it a nice coating.
3.) Place a string of white lights inside and wait for evening for beautiful Valentine luminaries.

So easy to make and so pretty.

Upcoming Projects

2011-01-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

I've realized with anything that if I don't write to do lists then nothing gets done that needs to. So I'm writing out some projects I want to get done. I'm not going to put a deadline on these because my weeks are busy now but at least I won't have to keep sifting through my billions of bookmarks looking for projects. So in no particular order:
- Secret Valentine Project- I will have all supplies by next weekend
- Crayon Roll for church
- Gak- another alternative to coloring on snowy days (or)
- Peanut butter play dough
- Puzzle Bag- keep all those puzzle pieces together
- Backseat organizer.... need I say more?
- BIG ITEM... felt playhouse for Ian's 2nd birthday. Yes I have 5 months to do this, but it's a big project!

Ok so these are the things I want to do first. Sure something may pop up before I finish, like burp clothes (once we find out what we're having) but I've needed a push to get something done. I've been not feeling very well for so long that now I'm finding it very hard to get crafty again. Hopefully this little reminder list will help me accomplish it.

Pizza Night

2011-01-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

The problem I come across when I make pizza is my dough is too thin. This time my first one was too thick so i only used half the dough for the second pizza and it was perfect. A nice deep dish pizza.

My meal Plan for the week

2011-01-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

I always seem to make out a meal plan and when the week is half over I stop following it as well. I hope that by posting my meal plan here I can be accountable and stick to it! So here is goes:

Monday: Homemade pizza

Tuesday: Homemade chicken pot pie. I've made my own before but want to try this recipe

Wednesday: Mexican Casserole

Thursday: Hawaiian Haystacks

Friday: Chicken Enchiladas

Saturday: Broccoli and garlic pasta

Sunday: Meatloaf and mashed potatoes

Wish me luck

I'm back, I promise

2011-01-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

I have a great idea for Valentine's Day.... I just need to find some jars, I already raided my fridge. Stay tuned I promise if I make it the way I'm imagining it, this is going to be great.

I'm Still Here

2010-12-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

So I feel like I've been MIA for a long time. There is good reason, believe me.... good reason! We bought a brand new home and packed, moved and unpacked in a blizzard over Thanksgiving. We still haven't moved everything over (only 5 minutes away) so I still have alot to do. The roads here in Idaho are horrible, I think the transportation department wants accidents to happen because they can't do their job of plowing roads around here. That makes moving take alot harder.

I've also been extremely tired, so tired that after getting up and making breakfast for the little guy I'm ready to sit down and take a nap. I'm not kidding. I've also been nauseated most of the day for the last 5 weeks. It turns out we're expecting baby #2! I'm just 3 weeks shy of the second trimester so I'm really hoping I'll be back to normal before too long. This time around is alot harder than with Ian, I guess they all can't be easy. It's been tough adjusting to feeling this way because I love to work and get things done. I can only handle unpacking a few boxes a day! Can you imagine how hard it is not to decorate my new home? To tell you the truth, I couldn't care less, I'd rather just lay down and rest.

I'm hoping by January I will have my craft room unpacked and ready to go! Thanks for all the patience and understanding! I promise I'll have some good things to come!

Christmas Traditions

2010-11-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'm always wanting to hear other people's traditions around the holidays. I never thought I had a bunch growing up but the more I think about it, the more I remember and do now with my own family.

We always went out in the back woods and picked out our "real" Christmas tree the first Saturday in December. Now that I'm married to a man who didn't have a real one, but fake, we put ours up the Friday after Thanksgiving. I love that we can enjoy it a week longer! We always have a pizza for dinner, even when I was young we did too!

Every year I either make or we go pick out a new ornament to put on the tree. Ian has his own 3 foot tree in his room where he has one ornament, his hand print. This year we will add another to his tree. When he grows up he can take all his ornaments with him.

Last year Ian and I read a few pages a night in Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. I plan on doing it every year with the family- proud of myself for coming up with that all by myself :) We also read other Christmas books.

We open new PJs on Christmas Eve and read the Nativity Story and go to sleep. The next morning we open stockings and presents and then make French Breakfast muffins and orange juice. We play the rest of the day.

Now I want to know what you girls do! Post all of your traditions so we can all create new ones in our homes.

Shutterfly Christmas cards

2010-11-16T21:46:00.001-07:00

I LOVE Shutterfly. Who doesn't?

I've used them for my

Christmas cards and baby announcements.

They make some beautiful cards and the hard part is choosing just one!

They have calendars, stationary photo books and amazing cards for all occasions! They have it all.
"Shop the Most Wonderful Cards of the Year"
I love using the photo cards and this year we may put our family picture up. But I do love the ones below. Shutterfly's cards are durable and very well done. Envelopes included.
Don't miss out! Get started on your holiday cards today.

So my Blogging Friends....

Do you want 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly?

Click here

for information on how you can get 50 free cards this holiday season

You can add some personal touch, not as much as the next card

I love this one because you can really add alot on just one card.

This is a great way to show the progress of a little one.

They have something for everyone!

Gobble Gobble Gobble

2010-11-01T09:28:00.001-06:00

Supplies:
Felt- fall colors
Felt glue
Googly eyes
Ribbon
Thread
Dowel

Cut a piece of felt 30x37- or make it as big or as small as you want it. I had plenty leftover from my Halloween Advent.

Cut out your "Give Thanks" or Thanksgiving, Gobble Gobble. I used my Cricut to cut out the letters on paper and traced them onto felt.

Cut out feathers. I just eyed them and cut out at least 28, or you can do enough for the whole month
Arrange the feathers how you would like them. At this point place Velcro behind each feather.

Fold an inch of felt at the top over and sew straight across, this will make a little pocket to put you dowel through to hang it.

When you take the feathers off you will see your Velcro and the next step is to glue them to the felt. This keeps them in place when sewing them.

While you're waiting for the glue to dry sew "Tom" onto the felt

Sew the Velcro that is on the orange felt, I found that the glue doesn't stay put when you put the feather off.

Cut out your numbers and glue them to the feather. You can arrange them however you like. You need 1-28 but the date obviously will vary.

I sewed a piece of brown ribbon on the bottom of the calendar just spice it up a bit, you can use ric rac around the whole square or leave it empty, you can really make it your own. You can even put your family name on the bottom.

Oh, and when you put it on the wall, use a skinny dowel to keep the calendar lying flat against the wall! I also sewed a brown ribbon to the top to hang on the wall.

Guest posting

2010-10-28T08:09:00.004-06:00

I'm guest posting over at Keeping it Simple today go check it out!

Caramel Dip

2010-10-25T13:08:00.000-06:00

I hate eating caramel apples because I've always had this nightmare that my teeth will be ripped out or something. So I made some delicious caramel apple dip. This is the perfect Fall after dinner snack.

11-14oz caramel
1 can sweetened condensed milk

Melt together in microwave 1:30 and then stir. Continue to melt until caramel just barely melts when you stir it together.

Serve with apples and enjoy.

And the Winner is.....

2010-10-16T08:40:00.000-06:00

Aimee!
Please send me your address and I'll send you the Gift Card!

100 Followers Giveaway!

2010-10-10T14:21:00.000-06:00

I've made it to 100 followers! Thanks everyone for following me and my little blog.
I'm giving away a $20 Hobby Lobby gift card! Who wants it?

Rules:
- Leave me a comment and tell me you're a follower, if you're not a follower, become one.
- Post this on your blog and share the excitement.

Winner will be chosen on October 16th.
That is it!

Halloween Bib

2010-10-10T14:16:00.000-06:00

I couldn't let Halloween pass without making bibs for my little guy. I found this vinyl tablecloth at JoAnn's on sale! Wahooo!

I simply cut up the tablecloth following a simple pattern, which you could make yourself and don't forget to cut the pockets to catch all that food.... best invention ever! Not mine, but I do love it.

With wrong sides together take the 2 pocket pieces and sew binding along the straight pieces.

These are the pieces you should have, minus the cotton backing... not included in this picture.

With the pocket pieces in the middle of the vinyl and solid cotton piece, sew together leaving and opening at the bottom to turn right side out.

Turn right sides out and sew all the way around the bib, makes a nice finish. The last step is to sew a piece of Velcro on to keep the bib on!

Whoooo Am I?

2010-09-29T08:15:00.000-06:00

HOOOOOOOOO ARE YOU?

HOOOO HOOOO!

Helllloooo fellow HOOOOOTS! Welcome to another week of

HOO ARE YOU!

I truly have to apologize for getting this up late again. I have so much going on at work and home that my blog is being put on the back burner. So sorry!

Here are this week's question?

1. List 3 words that remind you of fall.

Colors, pumpkins, crisp

2. Do you wear jewelry often?

must wear earrings and my wedding rings. My little man loves necklaces so I only wear those a tiny bit or he tries to pull them off.

3. Do you like your toe nails painted or natural?

colored

4. Do you ever wear a hat?

no, but want to

5. Do you have someone that you talk to everyday on the phone?

Halloween Luminaries

2010-09-23T21:54:00.002-06:00

There have been alot of these floating around blogland, and it's because these are so easy to make with things you already have around your home. I used leftover or used tissue paper and jars from salsa, jams, pickles and other things I can't remember.

First, obvisously wash your jars and peel the labels off.

Cover outside in Mod Podge (the greatest invention)

Next wrap your tissue paper around the jar and up and over the rims as well.

Let dry overnight- and be careful when you handle it wet because your fingers will mysteriously peel the paper right off!

Then I used black vinyl for the faces. It is easy to use and then mod podge over the top layer of paper and face.

Voila... you are done, it is that easy and fast. Then add a string of lights of votive LED candles and you have yourself a very cute Halloween decoration.

Halloween Craft Challenge

2010-09-22T14:07:00.000-06:00

Have you guys heard about this?! A Halloween craft challenge over at henthornhandmade?

I am so excited. I'm entering my Halloween Advent calendar and some cute jars I'm modpodging. If you have any time to submit your Halloween crafts, head on over!

Whoooo Am I?

2010-09-22T08:35:00.000-06:00

Here are this week's question?

1. What is your Zodiac sign?

2. Name 3 things that are always in your purse besides your wallet.

3. Which magazines do you look at the most?

4. Do you pluck or get your eyebrows waxed?

5. How often do you go grocery shopping?

Here are my answers!

1. What is your Zodiac sign?

Gemini

2. Name 3 things that are always in your purse besides your wallet.

my iPhone- it doubles as a distraction for the little guy when we are waiting for something. Crackers for the little guy when we're shopping, he needs distractions these days. And last coupons that I always forget are in there.

3. Which magazines do you look at the most?

Real Simple, Living- Martha Stewart, Parents.

4. Do you pluck or get your eyebrows waxed?

plucker

5. How often do you go grocery shopping?

I usually do one big trip a week. But when someone is sick and have to rush from the store... like this week then I go several times to get things I forgot.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-22T01:14:00.003-06:00

Halloween Onesie

2010-09-19T22:13:00.000-06:00

This was very simple to make and fast as well. The ghost image is actually from a vinyl table cloth I found at JoAnns. I was making my "famous" bibs, well famous in my home and I thought these would make a cute onesie for baby. Simply cute out the portion you want to applique on and simply zig zag on the onesie.

On another note, a friend of mine had her baby 6 weeks early and I had to quickly get her bag of goodies together.... a few burpies, pacifier leash, two onesies, a crinkly toy and 6 tee pee teepees.

My third award.. I'm so excited!

2010-09-19T02:39:00.001-06:00

I'm speechless because I guess I want my blog to be as awesome as so many out there but don't believe in myself I suppose. This is my third award and I'm so happy! Makes me feel like I can brighten someone's day! Thank you thank you thank you Ginger over at super stinky boys. I love her title, maybe cause I have a super boy, not so stinky yet but I'm sure that comes with age :)

And now...the rules.

Thank and link back to the person that gave you the award.

Share 7 things about yourself.

Pass the award to 15 blogs you love and enjoy!

Let those blogs know they've been given the award.

Alrighty...7 things.

1. I'm a true New Yorker, misplaced in Idaho

2. Summer is my absolute favorite, however I'm looking forward to Fall because I have some great craft ideas!

3. My college soccer team won Nationals

4. I'm living my dream of staying home with my little guy

5. I worked as a magazine writer for 5 years.... just "retired" 5 months ago!

6. I'm extremely shy...
7. My husband is a computer geek so Macs are the only computer allowed in our home :)

15 bloggers I enjoy (some are new and some are old favs) in no particular order:

1. The Appraiser's Wife

2.The Tidy Nest

3. Baby in the Big City

4. Just Another Manic Momday

5. Mine for the Making

6. Dirt Cheap Decor

7.It's Toile Good

8. Make the Best of What's Around

9.You Craft Me Up!

10.The Nifty Nest

11. Dream Home

12. Inspiring Creations

13. eighteen25

14.What I Live For

15. Envy My Cooking

Wow! That took my a long time! There are just too many inspiring blogs out there. I couldn't decide!

Pass it along to other awesome blogs!

10,000 views!

2010-09-18T21:41:00.000-06:00

I know this number is small compared to all the many blogs I read who have millions of views. But this is so exciting for me! I'm feeling happy! It's nice to know there are people out there who think I do some good things in this world. Thank you everybody who has stopped by and especially those who have left comments of encouragement or nice job!

I've decided to host a giveaway for when I hit 100 followers! I have 70... so 30 more people. I'm not sure what to give away yet... maybe a Halloween Advent Calendar (only if it happens before October).... luggage tags..... something Christmasy... hmmmh. I need to do some thinking. So pass the word along!

Scentsy Giveaway

2010-09-17T08:15:00.000-06:00

Sawdust and Paperscraps is having an awesome giveaway! Who doesn't need yummy smelly things? Go check it out.

Pottery Barn knock off

2010-09-12T19:15:00.002-06:00

I had so much felt lying around from little man's quiet book that this was the perfect project. While I stole the idea from Pottery Barn, I am so excited to have made this myself. I never thought about having an advent calendar for Halloween!
It took me longer than I expected but I am so happy with how it turned out. It took a couple nap times. I couldn't work on it when little man was awake because he's been super clingy since we got back from New York so he wants me to hold him. Or he just wants me to pick him up so he can reach the table and touch all my stuff. I'm so proud of myself for finishing well in time for October 1st! Now I can move onto more Halloween projects! Yippee!

I usually do most my projects during nap time, but I finished this off one night and how did I do it you asked? When Ian discovered I left the guest bathroom open which meant he had full reign of the toilet paper. And boy did he have fun!

Ok back to the project...
I have been scanning the internet for advent calendars for Halloween. I didn't even know they existed, Pottery Barn has some amazing ones that I love but would never feel good about spending $60, and never would. So I decided to make my own knock off Pottery Barn calendar!

Supplies:

Felt glue
Rotary cutter or scissors (I found that a rotary cutter works best, but scissors will do.)
1 yard of orange felt
1 yard of black felt
2 pkgs large ric rak- (I used green, but any Halloween color will do)
Various colors of craft foam with sticky backs (purple, lime green, yellow, black, red, white)
Halloween craft foamies- found at JoAnns
Dowel rod
Halloween ribbon
Alphabet/Number stencils 1″-2″

Assembly:

The first thing you want to do is cut 35 4″ wide x 3 1/2″squares. I cut out a square from a cereal box.
Then cut your black felt 44″ long x 25″ wide.
Arrange the 35 squares so that you have 7 down and 5 across. If you want to leave room at the bottom to have your family name monogrammed, leave it. Just make it look like it’s even. Leave room on the sides, top, and bottom for the ric rac.
Pin and then sew the squares.
I used my Cricut to cut out my letters and numbers and traced them onto felt. I didn't use sticky back felt because I had so much felt I didn't want to buy more. They cut out easy as well.
Arrange your foam or felt numbers and Halloween craft foamies on each square. I used a little felt glue on each just to make sure they stay on.
Arrange the title at the top.
Sew a pocket at the top for your dowel rod to go through, tie some ribbon on the rod. You have your own version of a very pricey advent calendar.

You can either put something in each pocket or attach a string with some Halloween "mascot" and move it from pocket to pocket.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-08T13:52:00.001-06:00

Get to Know me #1

2010-09-07T20:47:00.003-06:00

Here are this week's questions!

1. Do you type on a keyboard the correct way or do you peck like a cute little chick?
A. I am a professional writer, so by default I type away the correct way.... hazard of the job.

2. Typically how long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
A. If my husband is around I can take my time... by usually it's me and the little guy so about 10 minutes. Yes I do put makeup on and do my hair, maybe not to the extent of some of you!

3. Do you prefer lip gloss or lipstick?
A. I love the shimmer of lip gloss, but hate how my hair always gets stuck. So I at least try to put some lip stick on.

4. Do you take clothes to the dry cleaner or wash them yourself even if they say dry clean only?
A.I wash them myself!

5. Do you prefer Wal Mart or Target.
A.Target. I live 2 minutes away, and often walk there during the warm months... you gotta exercise!

Halloween Costumes

2010-09-03T22:47:00.002-06:00

I've been wracking my brain on what costume to make for little mr. I've debated making it or just throwing in the towel and buying it. Then I thought, how could I NOT make it? I love to create and make things, they mean so much more than breaking a costume out of a plastic bag. My debate is I found so many cute ones online as well, Yoda, Rainforest frog... But look at the two that I want to make. Suggestions? I is 14 months......So I was scanning Martha Stewart tonight and found two contestants.

Chicken Dino

Something in the Works!

2010-09-03T14:47:00.003-06:00

I'm working on something can you guess? Probably not, but I will be finished this weekend. I can't wait to post it... hint Think Halloween!

Owls: So cute!

2010-09-02T02:08:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it is September already. I have so much to do this fall. I can't put it off any longer. Today during nap time I put together an owl, finally. I've been wanting to make one for awhile and I think it came out rather well. I followed Toad's Treasures tutorial. I tweaked it a little more to my liking, I stuffed the wings, changed the beak and ended up ripping the feet off because I just didn't really like how they looked with the fabric I chose. Next time I want to make one with the long skinny legs. Those are so cute!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T02:12:00.002-06:00

I'm back!

2010-08-28T20:52:00.004-06:00

I'm back from New York and already miss my family. So much happens in three years to be away from family but I guess sometimes it just doesn't work out the way you thought or want. Anyways, my husband and I also celebrated our 5th anniversary while there. Can't believe how quickly time passes.

This is one of my favorite pictures from our wedding day, my niece Ella came walking over to us and we got a very cute picture.

Now on to more important things! Tonight I was missing my family and New York and Dan was away so little man and I had our own fun. I finally got to a project I've been wanting to do for a long time. I wanted to display Ian's art in a special and fun way besides hanging it on the fridge so I picked a wall and you can see the rest! I'm not totally happy with the wire and colored clips but it will do until I find something more to my liking.
I have another vinyl project I worked on as well but will show details later when I have it in Ian's room.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T08:00:00.002-06:00

New: Wordless Wednesdays

2010-08-18T08:00:00.002-06:00

Vacation Time!

2010-08-16T14:27:00.003-06:00

I'm sad to leave the blogging world for a bit but so excited to head home to visit my family in New York. I haven't been back in three years! But I'll be back well rested and excited to share with you all my fall projects! Since I moved last fall I wasn't able to do anything and I've waited a year for this time to come around. I'm so excited. I'll see you all soon. Don't forget about me.

Travel Highchair

2010-08-11T21:41:00.003-06:00

I've had this on my to do list for a long time now and I finally made it so I can use it on vacation in New York when I visit my family. I think it came out so cute!

It was very simple to make.

Supplies:
2 pieces of contrasting fabric 6" x 37"
2 pieces of contrasting fabric 6" x 4"
2 pieces of contrasting fabric 20" x 10"
3 pieces of batting for each combination
Velcro (long piece)

I didn't take many pictures during the process of making this, but I did wing it so I'm sure you can too!

Sew the three sections (right sides together) but be mindful where you leave your opening to turn right sides out because the smallest section will connect the two larger pieces. By looking at the layout you can figure out where to leave the openings.

After sewing it together I did a stitch around the outer edge to help it lay flat and hold the batting better.

The last step is putting the Velcro on. I used a long strip so it can be adjusted as Junior grows.
If you have questions just email me or comment and I will do my best to explain how I did it.

If you notice it is reversible!

Here is the view from the back. Little I didn't seem to mind being restrained, although I'm sure the fish helped distract him. This is great if you're out at a restaurant or a friend's house with no highchair. Enjoy!

Fit for a King

2010-08-04T12:00:00.000-06:00

There are so many birthday crown ideas out there and I've read a couple and knew I had to make one for my little guy who just turned 1.

First you need to pick your colors! This is the fun part. You can really make it anyway you want. I used two main colors and cut out two pieces of felt and make the green slightly smaller than the other.

I used paring scissors to dress it up a bit, you could do both if you wanted.

The three groups of boxes remind me of jewels a real crown had. I put buttons and a "I" for my son's initial.

You want to first sew the red squares to the green piece and then do the decorative items next. I hand sewed the buttons and used the machine to sew the "I".

Next to make it more durable, I ironed fusible webbing to the side that will be against the head.

I used elastic to make the back of the hat so it stays on his head. I covered it with fabric and I used real skinny elastic to connect the fabric, i can make it bigger the next 18 years! :)

I used a decorative stitch around the edges and I think it looks great

One Lovely Blog Award!

2010-07-31T13:11:00.003-06:00

I love getting awards, who doesn't? This is my second and I just feel so honored that there are people out there that read my little blog. I'm working hard to make it BIGGER!

There are a few rules that come with receiving this award:

1. Thank and link back to the person that gave you the award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Pass the award to at least 4 fellow bloggers who inspire you.

4. Let them know about the award.

Let's see...7 things about Me:

1. I am extremely shy

2. My husband and I will be celebrating our 5th August 19th

3. I have a little boy who I love more than words

4. I just "retired" as a magazine writer to be home with my little guy :)

5. I played soccer in college and my team won Nationals

6. I am a true New Yorker just transplanted in Idaho for awhile

7. I lived in Hong Kong (my second favorite place)

And these are fellow bloggers that I'm passing this award to:
I heart naptime

Life of Perks
The Crafting Chicks
Thrifty and Fabulous

Everyday I can't wait to get up and read so many nice comments on project naptime. Thanks to everybody who spends a little bit of time to write me.

An Award... For me? Yay!

2010-07-31T12:00:00.000-06:00

So I've had my family blog for a few years now and would post little projects I did hear and there, but just recently I've decided to begin a blog strictly for crafts, sewing, organizing ideas and mom stuff. I was really surprised and thrilled to receive an award after being here a short time.

The rules for accepting this award are...

•Thank the blogger who awarded it to you.

•Sum up your blogging philosophy, motivation, and experience using five (5) words.

•Pass it on to 10 other blogs which you feel have real substance.

I most definitely thank Vanessa for believing in me! She has so many awesome ideas go check her out at the Sewer, the Caker, the Copycat Maker.

My 5 words:
Inspire.... create.... improve....happiness....passion

10 Blogs with real substance: i love the ideas for little boys especially! :)
The Crafty Cupboard
So Wonderful So Marvelous
Make the Best of Things
homemade mamas
pony tails & fish scales
just sew sassy
what I live for
a girl and a glue gun
dilly dally & flitter
threaded together

Key Leash

2010-07-30T13:08:00.005-06:00

So a few month ago I was walking on the greenbelt (a walking/biking path around a river) and I lost my keys. I was so mad for not only the hassle but my cute I love NY key chain- I'm a proud New Yorker, transplanted in Idaho. Anyways, luckily I had my library card attached to the keys and an hour after I realized I lost them I got a call from the library telling me to go to the police station because somebody turned them in! Yayy! It was very humiliating to walk in there and ask the police man for my keys back, and I never lose things. Now I'm paranoid I'll lose them again and was trying to figure out a way to make them easier not to lose. I found a tutorial on the idea room, an awesome blog to check out!

Supplies:
two fabrics, unless you just want to make it one color
fusible interfacing
ribbon
1 purse strap clip- found mine at JoAnn's
matching thread

Cut your fabric 2 3/4" x 13"
fusible interfacing 3/4" x 12"

Iron each edge lengthwise about 1/4"

Next fold your fabric in half lengthwise and iron again. Your fabric should look like this. Put the interfacing in between the fabric and sew as close to the edge as you can.

After it is sewn it is sewn it should look like this.

Sew the two edges together, overlapping one end.

Fold the raw edges of the ribbon between the fabric making sure the ribbon is even before you sew it to the fabric

The final outcome! I may make it a little different next time, but for the first time it was pretty simple.

Menu Board

2010-07-28T21:54:00.005-06:00

It's 4:30 and I have no idea what's for dinner... I came up with a plan to help me be organized. I write on my menu board at night so I know what's for dinner the next day.

This board was so simple to make and takes just under an hour (that includes drying time).

I purchased a small chalkboard at Robert's going out of business sale :(. My favorite craft store here. I was so sad but did take advantage and bought $300 worth of stuff for just $30!

First I painted the board, which I got for .25! You can leave it plain if you prefer, but i wanted to brighten my white walls so I chose red.

Next I picked some ribbon- polka dots all the way! I just hot glued it to the back.

I also made a little loop for a piece of chalk. I have since moved to the dark side and purchased some Chalk Ink. I love that stuff! You can use it on almost anything and it wipes off with some water. It comes about $12 for a four pack but if you use your 40% off coupon at Michael's that helps!

I love the board not only because its cute, but because now my husband just looks on the board instead of asking me whats for dinner.

Homemade Christmas

2010-07-24T21:47:00.003-06:00

Christmas Countdowns at WiddlyTinks.com

It's about that time to start thinking about Christmas and gift giving for your loved ones. My goal this year and moving forward is to make my husband and son a homemade gift each year for as long as I'm living. I think homemade gifts are so meaningful and fun to think up and make! I'll also plan to make it for as many family members as I can. For the next few months I will post what I come up with! I'd love to visit your blogs as well and see what you're all up to!

Booboo Bunnies & Fish

2010-07-23T20:15:00.000-06:00

My sister made these for her babies years ago and I never got around to making them until now! I have many friends who will be having babies this fall and wanted to add one of these little guys to their bag-o-gifts. These are so simple to make.

Supplies:
Wash clothes. I used the baby ones from Target on clearance. Regular ones will work as well.
2 rubber bands
googly eyes
pom poms ribbon

Begin by rolling up one side to the center.

Roll up the second side so it looks like this.

After you roll the cloth attach the first rubber band, leaving enough room for your ice cube or reusable cube like I found at Bed Bath and Beyond. That way you can throw it back in the freezer and it's already for the next boo boo.

Fold the cloth back and secure it with the second rubber band right over the first one.

The final project. I think it is rather darling.

Here is the back of the bunny with his pom pom tail. You can add one for his nose too but I didn't have any small ones, I'm sure the big one would have looked ridiculous.

Since this cloth has fish I decided to make my son a boo boo fish. He loves the big googly eye.

Front view of the bunnies.

I made a bunch so when a baby arrives all I have to do is pop one in a bag! I love the glittery tails.

Quiet Book Pages

2010-07-21T14:44:00.001-06:00

In preparation for our trip to New York to see my family I'm scrounging for ideas to keep the little man happy on the long plane ride. He's just started walking so any ideas out there would be greatly appreciated!
I've been working on this book forever, other projects keep getting in the way :). These are the pages I've completed so far with help from some of you! Thank you for your ideas on your fabulous blogs!

Car Mat: This is my newest page. I saw this over at it's good for the heart. This is missing a few details, but wanted to post it in here as well.

Apple Picking: I think most of us know where this one came from, homemade by Jill. She has some great ideas! Here he cane pick the apples and put them in the bucket and also the birds snap off.

Mailbox: This idea also came from homemade by Jill. She is awesome! I never would have come up with this idea!

Gone Camping: I still need to make Ian sleeping in a sleeping bag but for the most part this page is done. We love camping so this one was a must!

Match the Shapes: pieces have magnets where he can match the shapes.

Caterpillar: Here the dots have magnets and you match the colors. The sun also comes off

Fish Bowl: eventually I want to add a fishing pole so Ian can fish the little guys out of the bowl, but for now they aren't attached so he can lift the vinyl and pull the fish out. He loves to shake them because the eyes make noise.

The Changeable Car. I will have a picture of my son to put in the driver's seat so he can see himself driving the cars. All the accessories will velcro onto the car; bumper, lights, wheels, taxi sign, etc. There is a taxi, police car, ambulance, convertible, truck and car. I outlined the car shape so the little guy knows where to place the car and then he can just go to town making his car!

I'll be sure to post the final book when all is said and done. Man this takes a long time, hope he likes it on the plane and of course for church.

Liz

Luggage Taglets

2010-07-10T16:14:00.001-06:00

In preparation for our trip to New York I thought I'd make some luggage tags to make it easier to spot my bag at the baggage carousel. I brought in reinforcements from Fun to Craft for help. After the second or third time I had this down and was in my groove. I didn't spend any money on these either. Just used what I had lying around the house.

***Note: sewing vinyl is a pain. It moves around or sticks to the machine as you're trying to sew. Put paper on top of the vinyl and it moves like butter and doesn't pull or stretch the fabric!

First cut out your fabric. I used the dimensions found in the tutorial, next time I may make them a bit smaller.

Main Fabric Cuts:

(1) 4 x 5 1/2 inches

(1) 4 x 4 1/2 inches 

Coordinating  Fabric Cuts:

(1) 4 x 5 1/2  inches

(1) 2 x 12 inches 

Fusible Interfacing 

(whatever thickness of interfacing you prefer)

(2) 3 1/2 x 5 inches

Vinyl  (if desired)

About a 3 x 3  1/2 inch piece

I assembled all the separate parts first and then I was ready to assemble the end product. It was nice to have all the parts ready to be sewed. So first do the straps. Fold your long piece in half, lengthwise and iron. Unfold and iron each end into the fold line . Then fold down your already pressed middle again so the raw edges are tucked in and iron. You now should have a 1/2" piece that is 4 layers thick. Sew straight down the handle

Next: iron interfacing to the wrong sides of your 4 x 5 1/2 pieces. Be sure to iron the fabric side, not the interfacing side- it will ruin your iron.

Next: Vinyl
Center the vinyl piece to the right side of your 4 x 4 1/2 inch piece. (I followed the directions the first time on the tutorial but the frays annoyed me, when I sewed on the right side of the fabric the frays will be under the vinyl and less noticeable.)

Use a zig zag stitch all the way around the vinyl. then carefully cut a slit into the fabric center directly under the vinyl as close to the stitch as you can. Do not cut the vinyl!
Next: Piecing together. Do as I say: lay right side up your main piece, next lay right side up your vinyl piece, then put your coordinating piece right side down. Sew three sides, leaving top open to slip in your address paper.

Next: Trim the corners and turn right sides out Next: Fold raw edges under and put your handle in the middle. Sew the whole open edge and Voila! You are done!I made 5, more than enough and hardly any time at all to make!

Birthday Onesie

2010-07-02T15:33:00.001-06:00

So simple to make and just under $1.50!

Simply pick a shirt or onesie and cut out you number. I just printed a "1" on the printer and traced it on my fabric and also on the double sided fusible webbing.

Iron the number to the shirt and then I zig zagged to clean the edges up and that's it!

Laptop Cozy

2010-07-02T14:52:00.000-06:00

I've linked this post over at cheap chic home for Fabric Fun Thursday- check it out for more great sewing ideas!
I've had my Mac baby since Valentine's Day (Thanks hubby) but couldn't find a bag that I liked or wanted to spend $50 on. Those things can get really pricey. So I decided to make one of my own, don't know what it took me so long. It was very easy to make.

Fabric: 2 fat quarters for the outside
flannel for the inside, or any other soft fabric
Matching thread

Measure your laptop; the circumference of the closed laptop, from the latch to the hinges and back around plus 2 1/2, the width of the laptop plus 1 1/2.

Mine was 15 inch MacBook Pro. Make sure to add an extra inch for the seams.

Cut two pieces of outside fabric and two of the inside, unless you have a big piece, you won't have to cut multiple pieces

I think I did it the hard way the first time, but take one inside piece and one outside piece- right sides together, sew leaving enough room to turn right side out. Repeat to the other piece.

Take the two pieces now and sew them matching sides together- just sew the two lengths and one bottom, leaving top open.

That's it! I'm still considering putting a flap on the top with Velcro and applique of the APPLE. But I haven't done it yet. It fits perfectly snug and I love having a cozy for my baby.

Check it out

2010-07-01T08:16:00.000-06:00

Be sure to check out Backyard Eden for yet more awesome ideas!

Fourth of July Shirts

2010-06-30T14:42:00.000-06:00

I love the Fourth of July, maybe because its summer and any time to celebrate with a BBQ and fireworks is fun. I wanted to dress the little guy for the occasion and since it is so hot here, a onesie is the perfect solution. This onesie was very easy to make and took less than an hour! If you're looking for any last minute ideas try this out. I bought a onesie for $1.50, but if you have one on hand that's even better.

First I printed out "USA" (any font you like)

Trace on fabric and also trace letters on Steam-A-Seam2 (double stick fusible web. I love this stuff!)

Stick letters on one side of the web and the other side you need to iron to your shirt- make sure you place them where you want them, hard to remove after ironed on

I like to zig zag the letters after I iron them. It dressed it up a bit and they won't peel off in the washing machine

I also did a star on the back which I love!

Have a Happy 4th!

2010-06-29T21:12:00.000-06:00

Check out Today's Creative Blog! It has a billion awesome ideas from other crafters! Click here to mosey on over there.

Awesome Floor cushion

2010-06-22T20:13:00.000-06:00

For Ian's first birthday this Sunday, I'm making him a few things, one because money is tight this month with all the many celebrations that occurred earlier. Two: it's just more fun! The floor cushion was so easy to make and I think it doesn't even look homemade at all. I'm sure these little guys could go for mega bucks at Pottery Barn or something.
Supplies: 1 yard of home decorating fabric- the heftier stuff will make it more durable for throwing around 2 pkgs of 1/2 " premade piping
32 oz. bag of filling- more or less to your heart's content I got all my supplies at JoAnns for under $12 (or course the fabric was 50% off!)

Cut two circles 21 inches in diameter (you can make it any size you want just remember the larger you go the more fabric you will need.) Cut the long piece of fabric 9"x65" that will go between the two circles.
Cut two pieces 9"x 3" for the handle

Pin piping to both circles. Match up raw edges.

Make sure piping is tucked in a V formation. You don't want any raw edges showing.

Your fabric may not be long enough to make the center piece, so you may need to sew pieces together to fit.

Sew piping to one piece of the handle, lining up raw edges and then place the other handle piece right sides together and sew both long edges, leaving ends unsewn.

Here is the final result of sewing the piping.

Attach the middle piece to one of the circles, lining up all raw edges. Sew on top of the thread from the piping. This will help navigate and seal all pieces together.

Sew the handle on the side of the cushion, fold the edges under before you sew so there are no raw edges showing.

Sew the other circle to the middle section the same way you did the first but be sure not to sew it closed. You need to leave 5 inches open to stuff it.

Fill the cushion with poly fil. I used the whole 32 oz. I like mine soft but full.

The last step: I used Velcro to close the hole where we filled the batting. I'm not sure if I'll keep this, we'll have to see if the little man finds the Velcro and tries to open it. I figured in the future it would be an easy way to refill it if it goes flat or if you need to do hard core washing. If you'd rather not use the Velcro simply hand stitch it closed.

Easy bow tie tutorial!

2010-05-29T14:08:00.000-06:00

I was scanning blogs as usual, looking for the next awesome project to do. I came upon yet another bow tie tutorial. I've been wanting to make Ian some more but never did. While I read the tutorial I ended up going my own direction and I think simpler as well. Sorry the pictures aren't very good. I'm still using the low end digital camera. But in just one week, my birthday, I will be getting a nice professional camera that will take awesome pictures for my tutorials, and other things of course!

Step one: cute out your fabric.
4 1/2 x 2 1/2 cute two and one piece of felt.
4 x 1 1/2 one piece for center of tie
a long piece for the neck strap, measure your little man's neck
piece of velcro, or you can use elastic

Step two: Sew right sides together with felt on bottom. Leave and inch gap to turn right side out.

Turn right side out and stitch both ends on top.

Step three: fold in half and stitch 1/4 inch about 1 inch long in center.

Step four: Sew center piece right sides together and then turn right side out.

Step Five: hand stitch the ends together of the center piece. Don't forget to tuck the ends end so the fabric doesn't fray.

Step six: The center piece should now be a circle.
sew the neck strap right sides together (picture not shown) turn right side out and stitch the opening end closed by tucking the unfinished end inside.

Slip the neck strap into the center ring, make sure it is in the center and hand stitch the back of the ring to the neck strap.

When done side the bow tie onto the neck strap.
I hand stitched a few corners to make the tie secure so it wouldn't slide down the neck strap.

Voila! If my directions are unclear, I'm just starting out trying to write them out, let me know. I'll help you if you get stuck.

- Liz- project nap time

Project Naptime

2010-05-18T21:54:00.000-06:00

Hi I'm Liz, I've decided to create a blog strictly for my craftiness and fun projects. I've been toying with the idea for maybe a day or two. I use my blog as a journal since I don't really have the time to sit and write in one. I found that you can print your blog into a book and I love that idea and thought I'd want my book to be separate, one journal and one for my projects, so Project Naptime is born. So I'm going to repost what I put up today as my first post of Project Naptime. I love the name. This was no coincidence, as it seems I get most of my projects done, or at least started when my little 10 month old naps in the other room. He loves to "help" me sew by yanking on the cord so I have to have 5 arms to keep him from pulling the plug out and having two hands on my material as it gets sewed together. I love naptime!

Vinyl Tablecloth Bib!

Last weekend I was blog surfing, one of my favorite things to do because I find so many great ideas from some very creative people. Saturday was no different. Dan was away and Ian was in bed at 8 so I had to whole evening to myself. I came across this tutorial from Just Another Day in Paradise and was only disappointed I didn't come up with it myself! Two of the bibs have a vinyl pocket as well. It catches all the peas and carrots that don't make it to Ian's mouth! I think they are super cute and very easy to make. I bought the tablecloth (what the bibs are made out of) from Target last month for $4 to make a drop cloth for his high chair, I still have enough to do that.

Now onto my next project!

About a month ago I realized Ian was old enough to sit by himself in the cart but I didn't want him sucking on the handles where so many people have put their hands and you don't know where they have been! I looked online for something and realized most of the covers I found that I liked were close to $70! I would never feel good spending that much money on something like this! So I went to the fabric store and found what I was looking for. I made Ian a grocery cart cover! It took me forever to make but it was all pretty cheap. I got the dog fabric on clearance at JoAnns and they were having their 99 cent pattern sale! I really love having the cover. Now I don't have to worry about him catching anything extra. It has two straps I made out of ribbon for toys and two pockets where I keep Cheerios or my grocery list or anything you need it for. Now that I realized how long it took I understand the price other crafters were charging, I might just have to jump on the wagon and start selling them myself.

I'll be better about posting step by step instructions!

Liz- Naptime Journal