Lisa's Craft Blog

Surgery Update

2012-02-10T11:09:00.000-05:00

Before I give you the full update let me just say that I never thought I'd be doing this well so soon after my surgery!! Thank you to everyone who has wished me well and kept me in their thoughts and prayers over the past few days!! You are all so sweet and I can't tell you how much I appreciate you!!

Here's how the past few days have gone...

Wednesday: I had my surgery at 7:30am and everything went as planned, although the surgery itself took a little longer than planned. I woke up in a lot of pain, but the hospital staff gave me medication to dull the pain a bit. Once I was awake enough, they brought me to another room where I got to see my hubby and my mum. Within a short time I was headed home. I slept most of the afternoon and evening.

Thursday: I still slept a lot, but not as much as Wednesday. It was a very long day filled with a lot of pain and boredom.

Friday: Today is the exact opposite of Thursday...thank goodness!! I'm still in a bit of pain, but doing much better!! As you can see I'm able to sit up and use my laptop and even do a few small crafty fun things!!

Thank you all for being so patient with my absence and for being so understanding and supportive too!!
~Lisa

A Super Short Bloggy Break

2012-02-05T13:48:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I have a big surgery coming up this Wednesday. The expected recovery time for the surgery is at least 2 weeks, but I should be able to use my laptop much sooner than that.

I had originally planned on writing a bunch of posts in advance and scheduling them to be published while I was recovering. Unfortunately, my other medical issues are flaring up causing me a lot of pain so I haven't been able to stick to my plan.

After much thought and many conversations with my hubby and my mum, we've decided that it would be best for me to simply take a short break from blogging starting today. As soon as I'm able to sit up and use my laptop I will start posting again, which should be in about 7-10 days.

I do have a guest post or two that will be posted during my break, so be sure to watch for it!!

Thanks to everyone for understanding and for being so patient!! I care so much for each of you and hope that you know just how much you mean to me!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Friday's {Valentine} Features #1

2012-02-03T10:43:00.000-05:00

This week's Friday's Features will be a collection of Valentine's Day tutorials from around the web. Enjoy!!

Love Bird Tutorial

by Molly Chicken

That little heart can come out of the little pocket too!! So darn cute!!

Handmade Paper Valentines Tutorial

by The Long Thread

You gotta love handmade paper so these valentines are so cool!!

Valentine's Day Mailbox Tutorial & Template

by Holiday Kids Crafts

It took quite awhile to find a large mailbox template!! This one rocks!!

Valentine's Day Burlap Art Tutorial

by Domestically Speaking

I adore burlap and word tags so this is right up my alley!!

Valentine Mod Podge Frames Tutorial

by Tidy Mom

This is such an easy and inexpensive project!! I gotta try it!!

Valentine's Wreath & Frame Tutorial

by Lil' Luna

I think the little bunting banners are adorable!! Love this!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Guest Post: Bleak2Unique (Valentine Tree)

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today we have a guest post by Lori from Bleak2Unique!! She's going to share a wonderful tutorial on how to decorate a Valentine Tree...for cheap!! Gotta love affordable projects, especially ones as pretty as this!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hi Ya'll! I'm so excited to be here at Lisa's Craft Blog. To tell you the truth, this is my first guest post, and I'm a little nervous, but what the heck...I'm among friends, right?

So, what can I tell you about me...I'm Lori from over at Bleak2Unique where I blog about life, trash to treasure projects, and my adventures as a DIY addict. I'm a southern girl living on the west coast, a new blogger, and I absolutely love meeting new blog friends, so come on by anytime...

To keep us all in the spirit for Lisa's "A Love-Filled Valentine's Event" I am going to share our new holiday tradition...A Valentine's tree.

We are big Christmas decorators, so we have 5 trees (should I really admit that!), and one of the small trees just happens to be pink...perfect for Valentine's Day. After climbing in the attic and retrieving the pink tree (the very last box, in the back, past the spider webs...ugh), I headed to my favorite craft store....the Dollar Tree! Here is what I got...

Valentine's garland and heart boxes...so cute

Foam heats and "sweetheart" boxes

I brought my goodies home, put the tree together, fluffed the branches and got out some of my crystals...these are leftovers from lamp and chandelier makeovers like my Revamp the Lamps tutorial...I love lamps!

Gotta love some bling!

Teardrops make me happy

I put it all together and here is what I got....A Valentine's tree!

Love is in the air

We have lights!

Love tinsel...

...and lights

Night view

I love it so much...maybe next year I'll drag down the 8 foot white tree...probably not! This only took about an hour, so get inspired and put up your own tree....and have a Happy Valentine's Day.

If you want to see more of my ideas hop on over and check out some of my follower faves like...

Song Birds

Rockin' Tangerine

I have enjoyed sharing with all of you today! Thanks so much Lisa for having me over!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Wasn't that great?!? I love that she went to Dollar Tree for some of the ornaments and those cute boxes!! Now I just gotta find an inexpensive, small pink tree!! hehehe

Lori has great tutorials over at her blog so please take a moment to visit Bleak2Unique and become a follower too!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Tutorial: "52 Reasons I Love You" Book

2012-02-02T03:04:00.001-05:00

I wanted the first tutorial for the "Love-Filled Valentine's Event" to be a biggie and I think this one is perfect!!

The time has come for the tutorial you have been waiting for...

Let me start by saying...
I DID NOT COME UP WITH THIS IDEA!!
These "52 Reasons..." books have been posted all over the internet recently and I thought it was such a great idea that I wanted to make one for my husband this year. As with any and all crafts that I make, I'm sharing the tutorial with you!!

Other people that have made these books have said that the hardest part was coming up with the 52 reasons. However, after spending the last 12 years of my life with my husband, it was super easy to come up with my 52 reasons!! I actually struggled with the embellishing step the most!!

I know you're all just dying to see this tutorial, so here it is...

"52 Reasons I Love You"
Deck of Cards Book Tutorial

SUPPLIES

Deck of cards

Scrap paper

Pencil

Scissors

Ruler

Hole punch

Eyelets & eyelet setter

Paper & cardstock variety

Glue

Embellishments

Permanent markers

1/8" Ribbon

Step 1: ADDING THE HOLES

Adding the 3 holes to the edge of the cards first was really helpful because it allowed me to keep the deck of cards together without needed a rubber band or other closure. Plus, when it came time to bind the book, the holes were already there!

*MAKE A TEMPLATE*

Trace one of the cards onto a scrap piece of paper and cut it out.

Experiment with the hole placement until you get it just right.

*HOLES IN COVERS*

Place the 2 Joker cards so that the Jokers are facing each other.

Put your template on top of the 2 cards and mark where the holes will go.

Punch out holes in the locations you marked.

I added eyelets to each of the covers to strengthen them a bit.

*HOLES IN PLAYING CARDS*

Take your stack of 52 playing cards and place them face up.

Place your template on top so that the holes are towards the left side of the cards.

Mark were the holes are onto the top card.

Punch the 3 holes though the top 3-5 cards.

Repeat this process until you've punched 3 holes in all 52 playing cards.

Step 2: CUT WRITING AREA SHAPES

When designing the format of my cards, I wanted to incorporate a heart into the writing area. I decided that I would write the reason number on a large heart that would go at the top of each card. The actual reason would be written on a rectangle underneath the heart.

*DETERMINE SIZES*

Find a heart template or punch that will make hearts that will fit to the right of your punched holes and still be centered on the card. (See the photo above).

Measure the size of the center of your card; this will be the same size as the King, Queen, and Jack images on the face cards.

*CUT OUT SHAPES*

Using the templates, punches, or measurements described above, cut out at least 52 of each shape from various papers.

Note: I made sure that the rectangles were all solid colors because I wanted the reasons to be very visible. As for the hearts, I used some mildly patterned papers that I could still write on.

Step 3: ATTACH WRITING AREAS TO CARDS

I learned the sanding "trick" the hard way. I glued half of my writing areas to half of the cards only to find out they would peal right off!! Do not skip sanding the cards!!

*SAND CARDS*

Note: Do not skip this step and don't sand the entire card unless you want a rough, worn look.

Determine what portion of your card your writing area shapes will be covering.

Sand down this part of the card in order to remove the glossy finish; this will allow the paper to adhere to the card.

*COVER PLAYING CARDS*

First glue the rectangle towards the bottom center of the card - approximately 1/8" from the bottom.

Next glue the heart at the top of the card in the center so it overlaps the rectangle. (See photo above.)

Repeat this process for all 52 playing cards.

*COVER JOKERS*

Trace the cards onto cardstock and cut out.

Using your template mark where the holes should go and punch them out.

Sand the enter Joker side of both covers.

Glue the cardstock pieces over the Joker images.

Step 4: DESIGN COVERS

Find a creative way to decorate the cover of your book.
Consider adding a personal message to the inside of the covers.
Note: For my book, I wrote a short note to my husband on the inside front cover. On the top of the inside back cover, I wrote, "...and we will live happily ever after." Towards the bottom I just added that it was made for my husband with love for Valentine's Day 2012.

Step 5: EMBELLISH CARDS

Decorate the 52 playing cards, but make sure to leave enough room to write on your hearts and rectangles!!

Here are some embellishing ideas...

Glue ribbon, lace, and trim to the edges.

Add stickers.

Glue on gems, die cuts, etc.

Doodle on the cards.

Punch holes on the wrong side of the cards and weave ribbon through them.

Add brads & eyelets.

Just let your imagination run wild!!
Once all of your cards are embellished, mix them up so that no two similar cards are together.

Step 6: ADD REASONS

NOTE: You can find my list of 52 reasons at the end of this tutorial along with a link to another list of 52 reasons!!

Write the reason numbers (1-52) in the hearts on each card using permanent marker.

Add the actual reasons on the rectangles of each card.

Here are some examples from my cards...

Step 7: BINDING THE BOOK

I wanted this book to look like a book, not a round address book - if you know what I mean. I cam up with a way to "bind" the book so it has a spine, while keeping the "chunkiness" of the book that I love so much.

*THREAD RIBBON THROUGH HOLES*

Thread 8" lengths of 1/8" wide ribbon through the holes in the cards as shown above.

*TIE & MEASURE*

While tightly squeezing the book closed, tie the ends of the ribbons together.

Measure how thick the book is when it's being squeezed shut.

Untie the ribbons and gently set the book aside.

*MAKE BOOK SPINE*

Cut a piece of chipboard that is 3.5" long and is as wide as your book is thick.
Punch holes in the chipboard as shown above, making sure the distance between the holes is the same as on the cards.

*ATTACH SPINE*

Using the ribbons coming out of the back cover, thread them through the chipboard piece going towards the front of the book. (See photo above).
Tie the ribbons very tightly into a bow; then tie a knot using the loops of the bow to secure them.
Squeeze the book closed if it opened while tying the ribbons.

FINISHED!!

52 REASONS LISTS
In addition to my list of reasons below, you can find another list of 52 reasons HERE.
Some of my reasons were personal, so I've simply left them out.

You make me laugh...alot
You've sacrificed so much for me
You love me for me
You know how to handle me when I'm angry
You make me proud to be your wife
You give me a reason to wake up every morning
You always know what I need (and want)
You'll make an amazing father
You're a "hopeless romantic"
You are my strength
Your hugs make me feel secure
You know all of my favorite things
You have the perfect kiss
You appreciate my arts & crafts
You've never given up on me
We share the same hopes & dreams
You hold & comfort me when I cry
You make me feel important
I never know what to expect from you
You are patient with me
You leave love notes on the mirror
Our love for one another constantly grows
We have silly pet names for each other
You know what to do when I go crazy
You're my dream man
You are willing to grow & change
We like the same things
You're so sappy & mushy
You always know what's best for me
You don't mind girly stuff like this
You're not afraid to be yourself
We make great memories together
You inspire me
You stand up for me
You love me despite my bad habits
You never give up
You don't pick on me...much
You support my craft addiction...err...hobby
You say you're not perfect, but to me you are
We communicate with one another
You tolerate my odd sleep patterns
When I'm with you everything is perfect

I really hope you enjoyed my tutorial for my version of this super fun project!! I must say that I can't wait to give this to my hubby on Valentine's Day. I'm so lucky to have a husband that is not only interested in my crafts, but appreciates and compliments everything I make. I just know he'll treasure this book!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

WOYWW #5

2012-02-01T11:53:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my 5th What's On Your Work-desk Wednesday!!

Today I've been working on a lot of beaded jewelry and accessories and loving every minute of it!! Beading was the first craft genre that I really got into after becoming disabled and it was wonderful therapy for well over a year, maybe two. I eventually got a bored with beading and decided to venture into other genres and I'm glad I did. However, it's always nice to go back to my first crafting love, beading!!

Here's what my desk looked like just a little while ago...

Because of my lack of work space, I sort my different beading projects into separate craft cups (not cupcake liners) so that I don't have to keep a bunch of supplies near by, plus it keeps the beads from getting mixed up.

I was able to finish the two projects in the lower right cups pretty quickly and thought I'd show them to you!!

These are earrings for someone I'm doing a craft swap with. She asked for "dangly" earrings and these are 2 of the designs I came up with...

For more information about WOYWW, visit the blog that started it all, Stamping Ground.

A Quick Note...

I'm sure many of you have noticed that I haven't posted daily over the past week. Between my mum visiting and a flare-up of my medical conditions, I haven't felt up to posting each day. As you know I have a big surgery coming up on the 8th so I'm also working on the posts that need to be scheduled for during my recovery. I really appreciate your patience and understanding!! I guarantee I'll be back to the tutorial posting crazed blogger that you all know and love really soon!! hehehe

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Grand Re-Launch Giveaway Winners

2012-01-31T17:18:00.000-05:00

What an exciting day here at Lisa's Craft Blog!!

Last night, my first ever blog giveaway ended and a total of 698 entries were received during the month of January!!

Now I get the extreme pleasure of announcing the winners of the 3 prize packages!!

1st Place Prize Package

(valued at over $100)

goes to...

Sarah from Journeys of the Zoo

2nd Place Prize Package

(valued at over $40)

goes to...

Betty Gammey

3rd Place Prize Package

(valued at over $35)

goes to...

Emma Kesner

Congratulations to the 3 winners!!

If you weren't one of the 3 winners today, don't worry!! There are at least 2 more great giveaways planned over the coming months!! More information will be posted soon.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter the Grand Re-Launch Giveaway!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

A Love-Filled Linky List

2012-01-29T23:30:00.000-05:00

It's finally here!! Today kicks off the 15-day Love-Filled Valentine's Event!! The first part of the event is the...

LOVE-FILLED LINKY LIST

This party will run for almost 2 weeks, ending at 11:59PM on February 11th. Come back regularly to check out all of the recently linked up projects and posts. On February 13th, I'll announce “Lisa’s 3 Loved Linkies” and the “Top 5 Looked at Linkies”.

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word.

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up Valentine's Day related posts including crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc.

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something.

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page.
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post.
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Guest Post: My Favorite Finds (Hall Closet Organization)

2012-01-26T04:00:00.000-05:00

Today, Carrie from My Favorite Finds is going to share how to organize a smaller hall closet. You're going to love her "secret organizing weapon"!! I'm going to let Carrie take it from here...

Hi everyone at Lisa's Craft Blog! I'm Carrie, and I blog over at My Favorite Finds. It's my little part of the blogosphere where I share crafts, recipes, organizational tips, menu planning, and more. I host two weekly link parties.

Must Try Mondays is for those who want to share their favorite recipes. Wednesday Pinterest Favorites is for crafts, food, DIY, remodels, almost anything you have "pinned", you want to try, or is "pin worthy". I hope you'll stop by and join in the fun.

Today I am so excited to be sharing with you my easy, inexpensive organization project~~our hall closet.

Wow!! Who knew that organizing our hall closet could be so easy and inexpensive? Not me!

Here is what we started with:

Coats shoved in too tight.

Reusable bags, my purse, a trumpet, and boots on the floor

Hats, gloves, scarves in bins on top {where the kids can't reach}. It's also home to the church activity bag and misc other things.

Enter the {secret} organizing weapon.....

The Over the Door Organizer! From Amazon!!

And here is my second organizing {weapon}

The two year old helper :)

This project took me about 45 minutes to complete. I started by taking EVERYTHING out, and deciding where to go from there. I had purchased the organizer with the intention of storing hats, gloves, etc. in it.

I was able to donate some hats and gloves, put the backpack cooler away {in the basement...not many zoo trips this time of year}, and arrange things so the kids could get to them.

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:

Pantry Organization

Photo Coasters

5 Quick Tips to Keeping Up With Clutter

Thanks for having me today, Lisa. Happy Organizing!

XOXO, Carrie

Thank you sooo much for sharing this post with us, Carrie!!

I just know all of you will love Carrie's blog, My Favorite Finds, so be sure to head on over and check it out!!

Tutorial: Lace Storage Solution (& WOYWW #4)

2012-01-25T03:50:00.000-05:00

My love of lace had recently caused me a big problem... how in the world to store it all!!

At first, I had the lace rolled up in little zip lock baggies and stored in plastic shoe bins, like the rest of my craft supplies. However, after my latest order of lace, I would've needed to use over 6 plastic containers to store it all!! I just didn't have enough shelf space for that.

Out of necessity, I finally figured out a better storage method and today I'm going to share with you my Lace Storage Solution.

SUPPLIES

Plastic back-of-the-door shoe organizer

5+ sheets of 12"x12" chipboard

Paper slicer or scissors

Lace/trim to be stored

Step 1: CUT CHIPBOARD CARDS

Cut the chipboard sheets into cards that measure 3"x9".

You should be able to get 5 cards from each 12"x12" sheet of chipboard.

Step 2: WRAP LACE ON CARDS

Wrap your lace/trim on the chipboard cards as shown above.

Continue wrapping until all of your lace/trim is on cards.

Step 3: HANG SHOE ORGANIZER

Hang the plastic shoe organizer on the back of your door.

Step 4: ADD CARDS TO POCKETS

Place the lace-wrapped chipboard cards into the organizer pockets.

Note: I had so many cards full of lace that I had to put 2 cards in some of the pockets. They did fit.

FINISHED!!

WOYWW #4

My hubby is out of town for a couple weeks and then I'm having my surgery so my mum is staying with me for over a month. YAY!! I'm absolutely loving having her here with me and will miss her terribly when she eventually has to go back home.

Since my mum needs something to do while I obsessively craft, I let her use my lap desk and laptop, which is my usual "work desk". Here she is playing her games on my laptop...

As for me, I'm using a wooden painting station as my "work desk" and it's working out quite well!!

You can see the many projects I'm currently working on in the photo above. Here's the list of what's on this little "lap desk"...

1) Wooden bird houses to alter

2) Clothes pins to make into magnets

3) A heart-shaped box to paint & decorate

4) Beads for pea pod pendants

I absolutely have crafting ADD!! I can't just work on one or two projects at a time, I usually have about 5 going at once!! hehehe

For those that are new to my blog and my WOYWW, the reason I don't have a "real" work desk is because I'm disabled and spend most of my time in my recliner. My lap desk and arms of the recliner are my work area.

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Version: TP Tube Valentine Gift Boxes

2012-01-24T03:30:00.000-05:00

Today I'm going to share with you how to make these adorable Valentine Gift Boxes from upcycled TP tubes!! They take a little bit of work, but are totally worth it!!

When using another blog's tutorial as inspiration, I always like to take a moment to tell you about that blog and the original tutorial. I just think that's the right thing to do, don't you?

Today's project was created based on the

Upcycled TP Roll Burlap Stuffed Ornaments Tutorial over at The Artsy Girl Connection.

Marilyn's blog, The Artsy Girl Connection, is packed full of fun tutorials and much more!!

If you enjoy linky parties, you definitely need to check out "Pin'Inspirational Thursdays"!! Also, be sure to check out Marilyn's "Causes/Projects" page where you can find her current bloggy and volunteer events.

I couldn't help but fall in love with Marilyn's Christmas-themed "Upcycled TP Roll Burlap Stuffed Ornaments" tutorial, because of my love for burlap and upcycling!! Since Valentine's Day is fast approaching, I knew that a Valentine version would be perfect!!

Here's the TP Tube Valentine Gift Box tutorial...

SUPPLIES

TP Tubes

Scrapbook paper or cardstock

Burlap

Chipboard or grey-board

Ribbon

Glue

Step 1: CUT PAPER

Cut pieces of scrapbook paper or cardstock that will completely cover the TP tube.

Note: My pieces were 4.3"x6", but yours may require a different size.

Step 2: COVER ROLLS

Place a 1/2"-1" strip of glue from one opening in the roll to the other.

Line up your paper and press firmly.

Glue the other end of the paper down, making sure the paper is snug against the roll.

Step 3: FLATTEN ROLLS

Flatten the roll with the paper "seam" centered on one side.

Step 4: CUT BURLAP

Cut a 2.5" wide piece of burlap that will wrap all the way around the roll and have about 3/4" to overlap.

Note: I chose to remove 1-2 strands of the burlap from each of the longer sides.

Step 5: ATTACH BURLAP

Glue one of the shorter sides near the paper seam.

Wrap the burlap around the roll and glue down the other end.

Step 6: ROUND THE ENDS

Round the ends of the rolls as shown above.

Step 7: FOLD ENDS

Fold in the front and back "flaps" on each end of the tube, making sure the fold is curved as shown above.

Once folded, the tube should look like the photo below...

Step 8: ADD TAGS, FILL, & CLOSE

Cut or punch hearts out of your scrapbook paper or cardstock and out of chipboard or grey-board.

Glue a paper heart to a chipboard or grey-board heart.

Punch a hole towards the top of the heart.

Fill the box with candies or a small gift and re-close.

Thread a ribbon through the hole in the heart and tie the ribbon around the pillow box, finishing it off with a bow.

FINISHED!!

Be sure to check out Marilyn's Upcycled TP Roll Burlap Stuffed Ornament Tutorial to see the original project and to get more ideas for your own upcycled TP tube project!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Linky List #4 w/Features

2012-01-22T23:30:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone for participating another super fun linky party last week!! There was a total of 33 links added and each one was so inspiring!! Here are the features from "Lisa's Linky List #3"...

The Top Looked at Linky goes to...

Cool Tips

from Alderberry Hill

Sarah is back at it again with another collection of really cool, random tips found on Pinterest!! Her post has 9 tips such as the No-Slip Dish Towel (shown above) and using paper clips to hold wrapping paper on the roll!!

My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Hammered Hearts

from Kat's Nature

These hearts are so simple and yet so gorgeous!! In this tutorial Kat shows you step-by-step how to make these hammered hearts. I know I can think of many, many ways to use these gorgeous charms/pendants!!

The Un-Twistable Necklace

from Chicken Scratch

This is a wonderfully detailed tutorial that shows you how to make beautiful lariat-style necklaces that clasp in the front!! These necklaces would be fun to make for experienced and novice jewelry makers!!

Valentine Chex Mix

From The Taylor House

Chrissy shares a great snack recipe that looks so delicious!! She even shares how to package it up in cute little bags and adorable tags too!! This post has my mouth watering for sure!!

Lisa's Linky List #4

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 28th at 11:59PM Eastern time. Then on Monday, January 30th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word.

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc.

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something.

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

Version: Quick Fabric Covered Magnets

2012-01-21T03:30:00.000-05:00

Talk about a super quick, really rewarding craft project!! Today I'm going to show you how to make these Quick Fabric Covered Magnets in under 5 minutes!!

When using another blog's tutorial as inspiration, I always want to take a moment to tell you about that blog and the original tutorial. I just think that's the right thing to do, don't you?

Today's project was created based on the

Fabric Magnet Tutorial over at The Life of Jennifer Dawn.

Jennifer is a super sweet woman whose blog, The Life of Jennifer Dawn, is super family friendly!! She has a bunch of great tutorials and inspirational projects for you to browse through.

If you don' t have time to make many crafts, you should check out her Etsy shop, Bluebird Cottage Designs.

I thought that Jennifer's Fabric Magnet Tutorial was such a great idea, I just had to come up with my own version!! The two biggest changes you'll see in my version is that I sewed my fabric around the wooden shapes, rather than glue them. Also, I used super cheap wooden shapes that I purchased at Michael's in a bag of a few hundred pieces for just $5!!

At the end of the tutorial, I will explain the adjustments you'll need to make in order to cover square/rectangle and heart shapes with fabric. They can be a bit tricky so be sure to read these "adjustments".

Here's the Quick Fabric Covered Magnets Tutorial...

SUPPLIES

Wood Shapes

Fabric

Felt

Magnets

Glue

Hot glue & glue gun

Step 1: PREP FABRICS

Cut Fabric: Cut pieces of fabric about 1/2"-3/4" larger than the wooden shape.

Cut Felt Backing: Trace your wooden shape onto felt in coordinating colors and cut out.

Step 2: COVER WOODEN SHAPE

Stitch Edges: Sew a loose running stitch around the edge of the shape.

Cinch Fabric: Place the wooden shape in the center of the fabric and cinch the fabric around the shape.

Tie a knot to hold the fabric tight around the wooden shape.

Step 3: GLUE FELT BACKING

Using tacky glue, attach the felt to the back of the fabric-covered wood piece.

Step 4: ADD MAGNETS

With a hot glue gun, attach a magnet to the felt side of the shape.

FINISHED!!

SQUARE SHAPE ADJUSTMENTS

Trim the corners of the fabric squares so that they are a bit rounded.

Follow the rest of the steps described above.

HEART SHAPE ADJUSTMENTS

Trim the bottom point of the fabric heart so that it is rounded.

Sew a running stitch around the edge of the fabric and then cinch it around the wooden heart.

Add a stitch from the bottom of the heart to the top indent and back to the bottom; pull the thread tight so the fabric fits tightly into the top indent.

Follow the rest of the steps described above.

Be sure to check out Jennifer's original Fabric Magnet Tutorial too for more great ideas!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Guest Post: The Stuff of Success (Flip Deck of Photos)

2012-01-19T07:23:00.000-05:00

Today, Athena from The Stuff of Success is going to share a really neat Flip Deck of Photos!! This is a really neat project!! Be sure to check out her blog, where you can find more fun tutorials!! I'll let Athena take it from here!!

Hello... I am Athena from The Stuff of Success. I am so pleased to be here today with Lisa on Lisa's Craft Blog! This is a great opportunity and I thrilled to meet you all.

My blog is the pride and joy of my kids and I! The Stuff Of Success is dedicated to living life well, inexpensively. Our blog was developed to help prove that success is not the result of wealth. We focus on crafts, family, repurposing/recycling, cheap or free deals, with a bit of life's humor along the way. As an added bonus - every now and then my children do a "solo" project specifically for the blog. Another aspect of our blog is that my children are all adopted with special needs. As a result, many projects are adaptations or solutions to everyday difficulties that may be helpful to families with similar situations. I look forward to showing you all one of my project's - The Flip Deck of Photos!

You need a large binder ring, wallet sized photos, a hole punch and time… I also used a very heavy scrapbook paper for the front cover and a plain heavy scrapbook paper for the back cover. You can certainly use photos printed on regular photo paper but I printed these with my inkjet printer on the heaviest cardstock I could find. I selected photos from our previous full year with all of our trips, activities, holidays and celebrations.

I also made a set for my husband but that set was with 3 1/2 x 5 photos and required two punched holes for two rings. And for the covers on his I used scrapbook paper adhered to chip board - I wanted to add a layer of protection to the larger sized photos.

I hope you enjoyed this project and there are so many other ideas at The Stuff Of Success such as my favorites below.

Glamorized Boots

Paper Rose Tutorial

Big Screen TV becomes a Portable Closet

Blog Updates & WOYWW #3

2012-01-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

www.lisas-craft-blog.com

I'm so excited!! I registered a new domain name for this blog!! While you can still find everything at the old "blogspot" address, you can also use www.lisas-craft-blog.com!! I'm in the process of changing everything over to the new address.

Another change coming soon is another change to the look of Lisa's Craft Blog. While I was originally happy with the current layout, I've come to the conclusion that it's just not what I want. You can look forward to a much simpler layout that isn't so colorful. I'm thinking of using either a linen or burlap textured background similar what I used for the new button. What do you think about a simpler layout?

WOYWW #3

I know I'm a bit late today, but better late than never, right?!? Let's get to the picture...

There are actually two projects in progress in this picture.

At the top you can see the felt and those weird looking things. Those are actually going to be magnets!! The tutorial is coming this Saturday so be sure to check back!!

Towards the bottom is a bunch of beading supplies. I'm working on some jewelry for Grandmaw, my grandmother-in-law. My hubby is going to go visit his grandparents for a couple weeks and I'm just sending some goodies with him to give to Grandmaw. I'll share some pictures of the finished earrings in a future post.

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Surgery Details

2012-01-17T20:22:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone that has commented and e-mailed me to wish me well for my upcoming surgery. I know many of you are curious about the surgery I'm going to have so I figured I would take a moment to tell you about it. I would've explained sooner, but I didn't know if it would be "TMI" (too much information).

First I need to give you some background information...

The medical conditions that have caused me to become disabled, cause me a lot of pain. For quite some time I was on extremely high doses of oral pain medications which turned me into a zombie. It was no way to live for me or for my caretakers.

Finally, after moving here to Maryland, my Pain Management Doctor suggested that I get an Intrathecal Medication Delivery Pump (aka a pain pump). Basically, it's a device implanted inside one's abdomen that would deliver pain medication directly to their spinal cord and then throughout the bloodstream. After researching the pump and all that it entailed, my hubby and I agreed that it was something I should get.

I've had my pump for almost 4 years now and it has done wonders for my quality of life. I'm still very much disabled and depend on my hubby for most of my care, but my pain levels are much lower.

Somehow the pump has "come loose" and is no longer stitched in place inside my abdomen. It's uncomfortable at times and painful at others. The other day I went to the doctor to have it refilled and he had a hard time accessing it because it had moved so much. It was then that we realized I needed surgery asap to have it stitched back in place.

That brings me to the upcoming surgery...

The surgery will require a neurosurgeon to cut a 5-inch incision into my abdomen where they'll be able go in and suture the pump to some nearby cartilage and back where it belongs. Then I'll be sewn up and off to recovery!!

This is actually the 2nd time they've had to go in and stitch the pump back in place since I've had it. This is most likely because one of my medical conditions, EDS, causes my connective tissues to be very stretchy and sometimes frail. So since I've had this done before I'm not too worried. However, it is a VERY painful recovery.

I can't even begin to express how much I appreciate all of the thoughts, prayers, and well wishes!! I guess I'll just have to leave it at... THANK YOU!!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Version: Framed Heart Button Art

2012-01-17T03:28:00.000-05:00

It's not too early to start working on Valentine's Day projects is it?!? If it is, oh well!! I went ahead and did it anyway!! hehehe

In this post, I'll show you how I made this Framed Heart Button Art!! Pretty nifty, huh?!?

When using another blog's tutorial, I always want to take a moment to tell you about that blog and the original tutorial. I just think that's the right thing to do, don't you?

Today's project was created by following the

Button Ghost and Pumpkin tutorial over at A Pumpkin and a Princess.

Crystal is super creative and does a great job with her blog, A Pumpkin and a Princess!! Her blog is packed full of crafty tutorials, delicious recipes, decorating ideas, storage & organizational tips, and much more!! You gotta see this blog!!

When I found the Button Ghost and Pumpkin tutorial at A Pumpkin and a Princess, I knew I had to give it a try!! Here's what Crystal's button art looked like...

I'd never made button art before, but Crystal made it look so easy!! Since Halloween was long gone, I decided to use a heart as my button art image. I also decided to decorate my frame a bit!! Here's the tutorial for my version...

SUPPLIES

$1 Wooden frame

Old book pages & sheet music

Acrylic craft paint

Burlap

Cardstock (matches burlap)

Various sized buttons

Glue

Decoupage medium

Paint brush

Step 1: PREP FRAME

Remove the frame backing, glass, and anything else that came inside. You can get rid of the glass, but keep the backing.

Step 2: COVER FRAME

Cover Frame: Decoupage torn pieces of old book pages onto the frame, covering the entire front side and overlapping onto the inside and outside edges.

Note: You do not need to completely cover the inside and outside edges of the frame because you'll be painting over them shortly.

Add Accents: Add torn strips of sheet music to accent the frame.

Step 3: PAINT FRAME EDGES

Paint the inside and outside edges of the frame with two coats of acrylic craft paint.

Step 4: PREP BACKGROUND MATERIALS

Trace & Cut: Trace the frame's backing onto your burlap and a coordinating sheet of cardstock. Cut them out.

Glue Together: Glue the burlap onto the cardstock, making sure to line up your edges.

Place in Frame: Put the burlap/cardstock sheet in the frame with the burlap side facing out and replace the frame's backing.

Step 5: TRACE SHAPE

Trace your desired shape onto the burlap using a pencil.

Note: Make sure you choose an image that is very basic! Choosing a complex image will be hard to make out when it's covered in buttons.

Step 6: ADD BUTTONS

Before gluing any buttons down, you will want to plan them in advance.

Place 5-8 buttons onto your shape, making sure there are no large gaps in the image.

Once you have figured out where they're going to go, glue them in place.

Cover your entire shape with buttons.

FINISHED!!

Real quick, I want to show you the first image I tried turning into button art.

This was supposed to be two hearts side by side, but ended up looking like an upside-down bikini top!! Since it was so hard to see, I decided to re-do it as just the one heart. So when I said, "Choosing a complex image will be hard to make out when it's covered in buttons.", I knew what I was talking about!!

Anyway, I hope you like this tutorial!! Be sure to look at the original tutorial, Button Ghost and Pumpkin tutorial, over at A Pumpkin and a Princess!! There are a few differences in our tutorials, not to mention Crystal's blog just rocks and you need to check it out!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Announcement: A Love-Filled Valentine's Event

2012-01-16T19:08:00.000-05:00

You remember the 26-Day Christmas Craft Marathon from November and December, right? If you enjoyed that event, then you're going to LOVE the one I'm going to host celebrating Valentine's Day!!

That's right, starting January 30th, I'm hosting "A Love-Filled Valentine's Event" that will run right up to Valentine's Day!! This is going to be sooo much fun!! Here's what I have planned...

"Lisa's Love-Filled Linky List"

A 2-week linky party where everyone can share their Valentine's Day related posts and projects!!

"Love-Filled" Tutorials

I'm going to create and share as many Valentine's Day tutorials as possible!!

"Lovely" Guest Posts

Guest bloggers will be sharing their Valentine's Day projects with you!!

Love-Themed Feature Fridays

I'll be featuring a bunch of Valentine's Day and love-themed projects

...and More!!

There's few other ideas bouncing around my head, but I want to work out the details before announcing them!!

Sounds like fun, doesn't it?!?! I sure think so and I truly can't wait for January 30th to get here so it can start!! No really...I cannot wait!! I started making Valentine's Day projects already and am sharing a tutorial with you tomorrow for one of them!! hehehe

If you would like to share a Valentine's project or round-up, please contact me and we'll work out the details!!

My Upcoming Surgery

On a not-so-happy topic, there's a pretty good chance I'll be having a pretty intense surgery on February 8th. I'll find out for sure when the surgery will be come this Thursday. Whenever it's scheduled for, I will try my best to write posts beforehand and schedule them to be published during and after the surgery. Should it be scheduled for the 8th, I should be doing much better by Monday the 13th so I'll be able to announce the features from the Valentine's Day linky party on time.

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Lisa's Linky List #3 w/Features

2012-01-15T23:30:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone that linked up last week!! It was another inspiring party and I loved each linky!! I just wish I could feature everyone's posts that they linked up!! Since I can't do that, here are the 4 features from "Lisa's Linky List #2"...

There was a tie for the Top Looked at Linky and the two with the most views were...

Flip Out Circle Photo Book
from Cabin Fevered Gem

I think this would be such a great card for friends and family far away!! Gen shares her version of a video tutorial found on YouTube. She shares the video as well, so we can make them too!!

DIY Winter Painting
from Chicken Scratch

Alecia shares how anyone can paint this beautiful "Winter Branches" painting in this step-by-step tutorial!! I'm going to have to try this one really soon!!

My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Linen & Lace Fingerless Gloves Tutorial
from Nancy's Couture

Nancy shares this super simple tutorial showing us how to make these beautiful lace embellished, fingerless gloves!! I am definitely making myself a pair of these ASAP!!

Microwave Brownie Sundae Recipe
from A Crafty Cook

How could I not feature this amazing recipe from Erin?!? A brownie Sundae that you don't have to bake!! I'm going to treat my mum to this when she visits this week!!

DIY Daily Affirmation Box
from Craftin' Cowgirl

I LOVE daily affirmations and need to get in the habit of saying them. I should use Jen's tutorial and make my own Daily Affirmation Box!! This tutorial is great; there's no way I could mess it up!!

If you were featured today, feel free to snag a Featured Button from my Buttons page.

Lisa's Linky List #3

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 21st at 11:59PM Eastern time. Then on Monday, January 23rd, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word.

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc.

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something.

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

Version: Cell Phone Pocket

2012-01-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have a fun and easy Cell Phone Pocket tutorial for you today that I think you're going to enjoy!!

When using another blog's tutorial, I always want to take a moment to tell you about that blog and the original tutorial. I just think that's the right thing to do, don't you?

Today's project was created based on the original

Cell Phone Pocket Tutorial over at Fireflies and Jellybeans.

I must say that I have a great respect for Fawnda and Jeannine, the bloggers behind Fireflies and Jellybeans. They've put together such a great craft blog that's packed full of great crafty ideas!! I love to browse their collection over 140 tutorials!!

If you're addicted to linky parties like me, you need to add Show Off Your Stuff to your list of parties to link up to on Wednesdays!! Each week, there are 3 categories to add your post links to - Sewing & Crafts, DIY & Home Decor, and Recipes.

When I first saw the Cell Phone Pocket Tutorial on Fireflies and Jellybeans, I knew I had to make one!! I just loved the simplicity of the project and the different ways you could "wear" it. I mean, seriously, take a look at the image below and tell me that doesn't inspire you to make one!!

The original tutorial calls for a sewing machine and pinking sheers, which meant it was a no-go for me. Then I thought of different ways I could tweak the project into a hand-sewn version that didn't require the pinking sheers!! Here's the tutorial for my hand-sewn version...

SUPPLIES

Felt in desired colors

Velcro

Lace fabric

Lace Trim

Button

Embroidery floss

Fabric glue

Step 1: PREP POCKET FORM

Here are the original instructions on the dimensions for your felt pocket pieces:

1 rectangle of main color (about an inch wider and longer than your cell phone or Ipod)

1 rectangle + strap of main color (the rectangle is the same size as the other one - the strap is 1.5 inches by 5 inches - it should be all one piece)

Sew or stick-on your Velcro pieces to the top of both pieces (as shown above).

Step 2: CUT OUT APPLIQUE PIECES

Trace and cut out your pattern in both felt and the lace fabric.

Note: I used the template found HERE.

Step 3: SEW APPLIQUE

Cut a 3rd piece of felt in your main color that is about 1" shorter and narrower than the smaller pocket form felt piece.

Place your lace piece on top of the felt applique and then using a blanket stitch, sew both pieces at once onto the center of the 3rd piece of felt.

Step 4: ADD LACE TRIM

Using your fabric glue, attach your lace trim under the entire edge of the appliqued felt piece.

Step 5: ATTACH TO POCKET FRONT

Using a back-stitch, sew the lace-trimmed, appliqued piece to the front of the pocket form (smaller felt pocket piece).

Step 6: BLANKET STITCH POCKET

Blanket stitch around the bottom and two sides of your pocket form. Do not sew the top, because you won't be able to put your cell phone in it!!

Step 7: ADD BUTTON (optional)

If you want disguise your Velcro closure to look like a button one, just sew a button on the front of the strap.

FINISHED!!

Be sure to check out the Cell Phone Pocket tutorial over at Fireflies and Jellybeans so you can see how they made the original!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Preview: "52 Reasons I Love You" Deck of Cards Book

2012-01-13T15:43:00.000-05:00

I wanted to give you a sneak peek at a project I'm working on Valentine's Day. I'm making a "52 Reasons I Love You" Deck of Cards Book for my hubby!! I'm super excited about this project and can't wait to share the tutorial on my version with you!!

You've probably seen the "52 Reasons..." decks all over Pinterest by now, but for those that haven't, I'll explain what this is. Simply put you use a deck of cards to create a mini book. On each of the 52 playing cards you include a different reason why you love/like someone or something. Some people keep theirs really simple, like the first one shown below, while others really add a lot to their decks as in the second picture.

The Paper Vine blog has a great tutorial for their "52 Reasons I Love You" Cards.

This version doesn't have a tutorial, but is a great inspirational photo for a fuller deck.

The deck of cards book I'm currently working on is a mix between these two designs. I'm keeping a basic "format" for all of the cards, but will be adding all kinds of things to each card such as stickers, lace, ribbon, buttons, cut out shapes, and more!!

Here are a couple pictures from my progress so far...

This is just a good photo of the basic "format" I'm using for each card. My plan is to write the Reason # inside the heart and the actual reason in the rectangle below it.

After gluing in all of those hearts and rectangles my poor little rings were too small so I had to use some narrow satin ribbon instead. You can see in this photo that I've started adding ribbon to some of the cards.

By the way, aren't those heart cards perfect?!?! I got them at Micheal's last week!!

I'll be sharing my tutorial for these during the upcoming "Love-Filled Valentine's Event" here on Lisa's Craft Blog!!

Did you catch that? There's a new event coming soon!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Technorati Verification Code: XR5JFZ764VKH

Feature Friday #2

2012-01-13T04:00:00.000-05:00

Can you believe another week has passed already?! This year has just begun and it's already flying by!! I hope 2012 has gotten off to a good start for all of you!!

I've met so many great bloggers over the past few months and they all have amazing craft blogs that I think you should know about. Each Friday, not only am I going to feature great projects from around the web, but I'm also going to feature a particular craft blog and the writer behind it. I think you'll really enjoy this addition to Feature Fridays since you'll get to learn of new craft blogs to follow!!

Today's featured blog is...

Chrissy over at The Taylor House is constantly sharing tutorials, recipes, inspriational photos, and much more!! Here are a few of her recent posts that I really enjoyed...

Overnight Guest Basket

Crochet Flower Tutorial

Chicken & Noodle Recipe

Right now she's hosting her very first giveaway to celebrate reaching 100 blog followers!! You can win a hand-crocheted infinity scarf and matching headband as well as a $10 Shutterfly gift card!! Click HERE for information.

Today's featured projects are...

Butterfly Charms

From Kat's Nature

Aren't these precious!! I'm dying to make some and plan on doing so really soon!!

Word Blocks

from Stories by Me

I adore altered art and this is a project I've gotta try really soon!!

Last but not least, I just had to share this wire-wrapped bird nest that Tracy from Park Place Design made by following my tutorial found here. She did such a great job that I had to show off her work!!

If you've been featured today, feel free to grab a button!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Giveaway Reminder + Other Giveaways

2012-01-13T01:46:00.000-05:00

Just in case you've been procrastinating or have simply not heard the news, I wanted to remind you about the BIG Grand Re-Launch Giveaway that I'm holding this month.

I'm giving away over $175 in crafty goodies in this giveaway!! There will 3 prize packages and each one will contain a craft store gift card, various craft supplies, and at least one handmade item.

Here's a look at the 3 prize packages being given away. Click the image for a list of the package's contents and other details about the prize.

1st Prize Package

Currently valued at over $100!!

2nd Prize Package

Currently valued at over $40!!

3rd Prize Package

Currently valued at over $35

The values of the prize packages may be higher than currently listed. I'm constantly looking for extra items I can include in each package!!

You can enter by using the Rafflecopter widget built into the Grand Re-Launch Giveaway post found HERE. The widget will stop accepting entries at 12:01AM on January 31st, so be sure to enter by January 30th.

For additional information regarding this giveaway, including the Terms & Conditions, please visit the Grand Re-Launch page.

OTHER GREAT GIVEAWAYS

La Petite Mercerie Fabric Giveaway

From AllFreeSewing.com

AllFreeSewing.com is giving away one set of La Petite Mercerie Fabric. The deadline to enter is January 23rd.

Hand-Crocheted Infinity Scarf & More
From The Taylor House

Chrissy is giving away this gorgeous infinity scarf, a matching headband, plus a $10 Shutterfly gift card!! The deadline to enter is January 27th.

Giveaway Directory

hosted by Tip Junkie

New giveaways are constantly being listed with prizes including supplies, handmade items, and more! All contests listed end within 7 days.

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Guest Post: Polish the Stars

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today, Megan from Polish the Stars will be sharing her awesome Mini Polaroid Necklace tutorial with us!!

Before I hand things over to her, I just want to say that I've loved Polish the Stars ever since I found it!! It has so many great tutorials and there's even a weekly linky party on Mondays!! You definitely need to check out Polish the Stars, especially if you've never visited before!!

I've always looked up to Megan and have gone to her many times with craft blogging questions. She's always been willing to help!! I'm so honored to have her guest posting on my blog!! With that, I'll let her take over...

Hello there! My name is Megan and I blog over at Polish The Stars. My blog name comes from a Shel Silverstein poem about polishing the old, dull stars that you already have when you don't have enough money to buy shiny new ones. My blog is all about our journey to make our home a fun and beautiful place by repurposing things that we already have on hand and spending as little money as possible. You will find lots of crafts, recipes, home improvement, decor, cleaning, and organization projects - all with detailed tutorials so that you will know exactly how to do it yourself. :)

Today I am sharing one of my favorite projects from my blog - a Mini Polaroid Necklace!

This is kind of my fun, retro version of the classic photo locket. It is really easy to make and would be a great gift for a mom or grandma! It doesn't just have to be for family photos though. You can use your favorite photo of anything. I made one using a picture of my friend's old yellow volkswagon that was pretty fun. :)

Supplies:Mini Photo printed on CardstockSmall Glass TileNecklace BailMod Podge or Diamond GlazeExacto KnifeCutting MatFoam Brush

Pick your photo and crop it to an 8x10 landscape. I made this one using a pic of me and my guys. :) You will want a tiny print for your necklace. I just right-clicked and copied the photo from my computer and pasted it in to a Word document. Then shrunk it to about 0.7" wide. You could also crop your photo to a square but I thought that the polaroid look was more fun. Just be sure to make it small enough to leave a white border on the sides or the rounded edges of the glass will distort the sides of the photo.

Place your glass tile (I found mine here) over your photo and center it how you would like it to appear when it is finished. Hold it in place with one hand and with your other hand use the knife to cut just along the edge of the tile. You can also trace around the tile with a pencil and cut it out with scissors but it is a lot more difficult to get close so you will have a more to trim away.

Trim the photo down until it fits perfectly.

Using the paint brush apply a later of Mod Podge on the photo and place the tile on top. You will want hold the picture when you push the tile down or your photo will stick to the surface it is on. Carefully push out as many bubbles as you can. It is okay if it appears cloudy - it will dry clear.

Flip it over and apply another layer of Mod Podge to the back of the photo to seal it. Glue the bail in place (also purchased here). Allow everything to dry then add your pendant to a chain.

If you don't have the time to make your own, I also sell these personalized pendants over in my Shop!
Some of my other projects that you might enjoy:Techniques For Printing On FabricIncludes a few different methods for printing on fabric as well as the best ways to care for your printed fabric to keep it from fading.
Slow-Cooker Chicken and DumplingsPerfect comfort food for those cold winter nights.
Comic Book Pop ArtEasy and cheap art that doesn't require any drawing skills and can be used with any kind of picture!
Thank you so much for having me over, Lisa! I have really enjoyed getting to know you the last few months and I am honored to guest post on your blog. :)

A New Challenge and Personal Goals

2012-01-12T00:09:00.000-05:00

I'm so glad Karah from The Space Between sent me the link to the new Imagine the Impossibilities challenge she's co-hosting this month!! Here's the description from Karah's post:

What would you try if you had no boundries? What ideas do you have floating around that you (or others) think are just nuts? What do you really just want to try even though a big part of you thinks it’s just not going to work? (Uhhh, can you say gallery wall with one screw hole in the wall?)

It could be anything people! Skydiving, mountain climbing, creative writing, closet organizing, gourmet cooking (or homemade bread making as Karianne will be trying). Is it lamp painting, table decorating, long distance running, kayaking? Your impossible is just that, YOURS! There’s no too big or small, right or wrong. What limitations have you set for yourself that you might, just maybe, be able to talk yourself out of?
Oh, just Imagine the Impossibilities!

At first, I was hesitant to take on a task so daunting that I consider it "impossible". However, my husband and I are really concerned about our health; I'm disabled and he's a cancer survivor. When we watched Fork Over Knife, a documentary on the health benefits of a "whole food, plant-based diet", we knew our diet needed a major overhaul and quick!! I knew that night exactly what my "impossible"challenge was.

Here is my pubic commitment to this challenge...

I will start converting our family's diet to a whole food, plant-based one. I'll find yummy whole food, plant based recipes and share them with you in an update on my progress each Wednesday. This update will include links to sites that have to do with whole food, plant-based diets.

I'm going to need your encouragement throughout this challenge!! I really encourage you to visit the Fork Over Knife website and read about the benefits of a whole food, plant-based diet!!

A separate, personal challenge I'm taking on is to use Day Zero's website to try and accomplish 101 things in 1001 days. I think I can handle that!! I've started compiling my list and will try to begin my 1001 days on February 1st. Once I finish my list, I'll share it with you here on my blog. For now, you can see my list and follow my progress HERE.

If you've used Day Zero and are either working on or have accomplished your 101 things in 1001 days, I'd love to hear about it!! If not, I'd love to hear about what goals you've set for 2012!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

WOYWW #2

2012-01-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 2nd ever WOYWW at Lisa's Craft Blog!! I'm really beginning to love the middle of the week!!

First let me explain my work area for those that weren't here last week...

I'm disabled and even though I have a complete room full of crafting supplies, I'm unable to sit at a desk for any length of time. I spend most of my time in my recliner where I've managed a system of crafting on my lap-desk and using the arms of the recliner as storage space.

Yesterday, I set out to take my photos for this week's WOYWW, but my 16-year-old tuxedo cat, Willy, decided it was time for a kitty photo shoot. Who was I to argue?!?!

This was supposed to be a photo of the ribbon and stickers I'm using on my "52 Reasons I Love Hubby" deck of cards. However, Willy decided he should be the focus of this photo.

This photo of my work area (aka laptop keyboard) was going to show the deck of cards book I'm working on, but Willy was being all cute and pawing at the air to get my attention. It totally worked.

By this time, he'd squeezed all 18lbs into my lap!! At least you can see most of my work area in this photo!!

This is where I totally gave in and started taking pictures of Willy!! Here he is passed out in my arms.

After he took the nap in my arms, he moved to the back of my recliner where he stayed perched for about 30 minutes before going to his bed (aka the other recliner).

I hope you enjoyed this weeks kitty photo shoot...err...I mean, WOYWW!! hehehe See you next week!!

Thanks for reading!! until next time...

Version: Recipe Box Renovation

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm super excited to share this Recipe Box Renovation tutorial with you today!!

Before I get into the tutorial, I want to take a moment to tell you about While He Was Napping, the great blog where I found the original Recipe Box Renovation project!!

Krista has so many wonderful projects and sooo much more!! You definitely need to visit While He Was Napping and maybe even link up to the Weekend Wander linky party that takes place every week!!

If you're expecting or know someone who is, then be sure to follow While He Was Napping because the Bundles of Baby event starts January 29th!! I can't wait for this event because I have friends who are expecting or have recently had children!!

A couple months ago I linked up to the Weekend Wander linky party over at While He Was Napping. Afterwards, I found a perfect Recipe Box Renovation tutorial as I was looking through all of the great tutorials Krista has there. I knew right away that I had to make one too!!

Krista's tutorial is so thorough, so if you plan on "renovating" your recipe box, you definitely need to take look at her step-by-step Recipe Box Renovation tutorial.

Let's get started on my tutorial for my version, shall we?

SUPPLIES

$1 Recipe box

Various papers

Fabric

Cheesecloth

Decoupage medium

Glue

Lace (or ribbon)

Stamp & stamp pad

Buttons

Step 1: COVER PRINTED IMAGES

To keep these images from showing through, cover them with torn pieces of brown craft paper. Use your decoupage medium to adhere the craft paper to the recipe box.

Step 2: TEAR PAPERS & FABRIC

Tear your paper and fabric into small rectangles and squares that are less than an inch wide.

Step 3: DECOUPAGE

Decoupage the torn pieces onto the box, making sure to cover all visible areas.

Note: Keep your recipe box closed as much as possible while working on it and while it dries. If you decoupage it while it's open it will not close!!

Step 4: ADD CHEESECLOTH

Cut random pieces of cheese cloth. Decoupage the cheesecloth onto the recipe box in random patterns. Let dry.

Note: I did not incorporate the ribbon method that Krista did in her tutorial, but I wish I had and may still find a way to do it. I highly recommend you refer to Krista's original tutorial for how to get around that wonky fold in the back.

Step 5: ADD LACE

Glue a length of lace on the lip of the box, which is only 3 sides of the recipe box.

Step 6: ADD LABEL

Stamp the word "Recipes" onto a pretty piece of scrapbook paper and cut it out. I glued mine to some chipboard so it would stand out a little bit. Glue the label to the front center of the recipe box.

Step 7: EMBELLISH

Add buttons or other embellishments at this point. I added a few wooden buttons which matched the color scheme of my recipe box perfectly.

FINISHED!!

I really hope you enjoyed this project as much as I did!! I know I had a blast getting all messy with the decoupage medium!! hehehe

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Lisa's Linky List #2 w/Features

2012-01-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone that participated in my first linky party ever last week!! I've had so much fun seeing all the wonderful posts that were linked up!!

Here are the features from "Lisa's Linky List #1"...

The Top Looked at Linky goes to...

Ideas to Make Life Easier

from Alderberry Hill

There are so many great tips in this post, such as the fact that bread tags make perfect cord labels (shown above) and how to neatly fold fitted sheets!! Love this collection of tips!!

My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Making Boxes

from Kat's Nature

This post contains a great step-by-step, instructional video tutorial on how to make your own paper box and the lid too!! Congrats to Kat on her first video tutorial!!

Song Birds

from Bleak2Unique

I'm in love with this tutorial that shows how to make these adorable little birds!! You're not going to believe what Lori used to give them that great aged look!!

Homemade Bath Fizzies with Poem

From Sweet Anne

This is a project that I've never made before...Homemade Bath Fizzies!! This step-by-step tutorial also includes a free printable poem you can give the gift recipient. So neat!!

Lisa's Linky List #2

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 14th at 11:59PM Eastern time. Then on Monday, January 16th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word.

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc.

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something.

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

Note: Under the Weather

2012-01-08T23:30:00.002-05:00

Due to a stomach bug, I've been pretty sick the past few days and have just been resting and eating toast and applesauce. I'm a bit behind in writing my posts so your patience is really appreciated!!

Lisa's Linky List #2 will open asap tomorrow, but right now I need to get some more rest.

Thanks for understanding!!

~Lisa

Tutorial: Wire-Wrapped Bird's Nest Necklace

2012-01-08T14:17:00.002-05:00

This tutorial will not only show you how to make the ever-popular Wire-Wrapped Bird's Nest Necklace, but will also show how to add other components for the different looks shown below!!

Supplies

3 Yards of 24g wire

3-4 Pearls or beads

Jewelry pliers

Jump-ring(s)

Step 1: FORM NEST BASE

Thread your pearls or beads onto your wire.

Slide them about 8 inches down the wire.

Form a circle so the wire crosses as shown above.

Using the 8 inches of wire on the end, form the base of the nest by wrapping the wire up the edge of one pearl/bead and under the next, up the edge, and under, up, under, etc. until you've used the entire 8 inches of wire.

Step 2: WRAP NEST

Wrap the longer length of wire around the nest repeatedly until you have about 1 yard of wire remaining.

Notes:

I actually prefer to not look at the nest when doing this step because it's easier and the nest turns out more random and natural looking.

Don't wrap your wire tightly around the beads because you'll want the extra "slack" to add kinks later. Plus it makes for a fuller looking nest.

Add a few coils under the nest and then go back to wrapping the outside.

Continue wrapping the outside of the pearls/beads until you have about 2 feet of wire left.

Step 3: SECURE WIRES

Thread the wire between two pearls/beads going from the inside toward the outside of the nest.

Wrap the wire around this part of the nest 3-5 times to hold the wires in place.

If you prefer to only have one "loop section" you can skip to Step 4.

Go between the next two pearls/beads and make another "loop section".

Make "loop sections" for the remaining spaces between the pearls/beads.

Step 4: BURY WIRE ENDS

Thread the remaining wire around the nest, making sure to go through the wire "loop sections" and not around them.

Tuck the end deep inside the nest so they won't poke anyone.

Step 5: ADD TEXTURE TO NEST

Using round-nose pliers, grip individual wires and add kinks in random directions.

This will give the nest a more natural look.

Note: If you're having a hard time getting a grip on particular wires, use a pair of tweezers to wedge it so you can grip it with your pliers.

Continue adding kinks around the entire necklace until you're satisfied with it's appearance.

Step 6: ADD JUMP RING & RIBBON

Add a jump-ring around one of your "looped sections".

Note: I added a second jump-ring so the necklace wouldn't twist.

Thread a 30 inch length of organza ribbon through the jump-ring and you're...

FINISHED!!

Version 1: BIRD CHARM

Just add a bird charm to your necklace ribbon so it dangles near the nest.

Version 2: CHAIN & CHARMS

Put the nest on the end of a 1-2 inch chain.

Add a bird charm and bead charms to chain and necklace ribbon.

Version 3: CONNECTORS & CHARM

Using beads on eye pins and decorative connectors, allow your nest to hang about 2 inches below your necklace ribbon where you can add a bird charm.

Version 4: CONNECTORS, CHAIN, & RIBBON

Add jump-rings to 2 "loop sections".

One one side add a bird connector and on the other add 2 smaller connectors.

Add equal lengths of chain to both sides.

If your chain is shorter than you want the necklace to be, add ribbon to each end for added length.

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

I've submitted this tutorial to the...

Friday Features #1

2012-01-06T12:40:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the very first edition of my Friday Features!!

This is where I'll feature crafty projects that I've found on other blogs and Pinterest that I think you'd like. Occasionally, I'll also feature craft blogs that I really enjoy and know that you will too.

Pumpkin Muffins

from Sweet Verbena

I made this recipe around Christmas/New Years and it was AMAZING!! Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures. I'll be making another batch in a week or two for my mum so I'll share my photos with you then!!

This recipe has only 2 ingredients - cake mix and Libby's canned Pumpkin!! You don't even need to add any eggs, oil, water...nothing!!

I must say that these don't taste like muffins, they're more like pumpkin cupcakes!! They're super moist, really flavorful, and simply delicious!!

Photo Keychains

from My Crazy Life as a Farmer's Wife

I think these are so adorable and seem super easy to make!! Even though I don't have kids, I have a cat and a husband so I'm planning on making these really soon!! Sherelle purchased the tags, but I'm going to try and make the bases myself.

Pretty Bird Wall Art

from Blue Cricket Design

This is such a gorgeous piece of art and you're not going to believe how easy it is to make!!

My friend, Jess, and I are planning on making our own version of this project for her bird-themed nursery!!

Thank You!!

I want to take a moment to thank those of you that have added my button to your sidebar for my Grand Re-Launch Giveaway.

Here are the fantastic blogs that have added my button so far...

Kat's Nature

Because Mommy Said So

Tranquility...and Turmoil

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Crafty Day with Jess and Upcoming Bloggy Events

2012-01-05T21:08:00.000-05:00

Crafty Day with Jess

A good friend of mine, Jess, is expecting her first child this spring and I'm so happy for her and her hubby!! Jess happens to love crafts too so we've decided to get together one day each week to work on projects for her nursery and other fun crafts!!

Today we got together for our first day of crafting and I thought I'd share photos of our handmade goodies with you!!

Our main project of the day were these closet dividers for Jess' nursery...

On New Year's Eve we cut out the chipboard dividers from a homemade template and covered them in "Linen & Lace" scrapbook paper. She decorated them with bird and butterfly die-cuts, stickers, and pieces of real lace from my stash. Jess also stamped them with acrylic stamps and added plastic gems too!! Today we worked on adding the sizes to the dividers.

Of course Jess has a big baby shower planned this month and since I make jewelry, I offered to make her a bird's nest necklace to go with the bird theme of the nursery and baby shower. Here's how it turned out...

I had never made a wire-wrapped bird's nest necklace before so I was really pleased with how well it turned out!! Here's a close up of the nest...

You all should know me well enough by now to know that you can expect tutorials for both of these projects in the near future!! I just thought you'd enjoy this little sneak peek!! hehehe

Upcoming Bloggy Events

Friday - Feature Friday #1 I'll feature some of my recent crafty finds from around the blog-o-sphere!!

Saturday/Sunday - Tutorial: ???? This is a secret, but I know you'll enjoy it!! Who knows, maybe I'll even write a couple tutorials for you!!

Monday - Lisa's Linky List #2 & Features First I'll showcase my favorite 3 linkies and the top viewed linky from last week's party. Then we'll start a brand new linky party for the week!!

Tuesday - Version: Recipe Box Renovation I'll be sharing my version of the Recipe Box Renovation project originally shared by While He Was Napping.

Wednesday - WOYWW #2 Another glimpse into my crazy, crafty world and a chance to see my work area(s)!!

Thursday - Guest Post: Polish the Stars Megan from Polish the Stars shares her super popular Mini Polaroid Necklace with us!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Bloggy Travels: Polish the Stars

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today I've "traveling" over to Polish the Stars and sharing an updated version of my Wire-Wrapped Tree of Life tutorial!!

You should definitely stop by and visit Megan and while you're there take a look around!! I adore Polish the Stars and I know you will too!!

By the way, Megan is going to be sharing a really cool Mini Polaroid Necklace tutorial with us on Thursday, January 12th and I can't wait for you to see this awesome project!!

I think I'm going to have to make one!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

WOYWW #1

2012-01-05T00:13:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the 1st edition of Lisa's

What's On Your Work-desk Wednesday

These weekly posts will let you in on a rarely seen world of crafting madness...my work areas!!

Before I get to the photos, I need to explain that I'm disabled and spend most of my time in my recliner with my laptop on my little lap-desk and have tons of crafty supplies strewn all around me!! Most of the time you're not going to see a work "desk", but more of a work "lap-desk"!!

Let's get to the photos, shall we?

This mess is my lap-desk covered in card-making supplies.

Here's my actual working area (on top of my laptop's keyboard) and you can see the 2 cards I was working on and some of the supplies.

To the right of my work area (aka keyboard) are my stamping supplies, a couple paper punches, some ribbon, and a few other items.

To the right of those supplies, is the arm of our other recliner covered in even more supplies!! You can kind of make out some ribbon, a punch, a stack of acrylic stamps, some paper, a bag of wooden buttons and more!!

I'm linking up this post to Stamping Ground, the original host of WOYWW!!

Even though these next photos aren't from my actual work area, I just have to share them with you!!

In the past, I've mentioned my lace supplier in this post and my ephemera supplier in this one. I just have to show you photos of my recent orders from them!! These two woman are incredible!!

VINTAGE EPHEMERA

When ordering from Sarah this time, I requested a special order of just vintage book pages and vintage sheet music. I payed $15 for the paper plus $5 shipping. In return I received over 2lbs of vintage ephemera!! This stuff is amazing!!

This is my entire order!! You can't really tell by this photo, but each of those is a small stack of pages!!

Here's a good close up of the paper I received!!

If you ever use ephemera in your crafts, you've got to visit Sarah's shop on eBay, Stuff in the Attic!! If you don't see exactly what you're looking for, just send her an e-mail and she'll put it together for you!!

LACE

Now to show you the huge amount of lace I ordered!! I paid a mere $25 plus S&H for a whole pound of lace!! That may not sound like a lot, but we're talking about 150 yards or more of lace!! Check it out...

This box is about 18"x15"x6" and it's overflowing with lace from this one order!!

This is a side view of how full the box is!!

You absolutely cannot beat Crystal's prices for lace, especially when buying her assortments!! Visit her Artfire Shop to see her listings or you can e-mail Crystal for a custom order.

If you order from Sarah or Crystal, please tell them I sent you!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Lisa's Linky List #1

2012-01-01T23:30:00.000-05:00

This is not only the first linky party of 2012, it's also the first ever "Lisa's Linky List" linky party!! I'm so excited to host this party and can't wait to see what kind of great stuff you share this week!!

This party will be open until Saturday, January 7th at 11:59PM Eastern time. Then on Monday, January 9th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies"!!

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word.

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, money saving tips, decorating, etc.

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something.

A couple other quick things I want to quickly mention about this linky party...

Tutorial: Framed Lace Pendant

2012-01-01T12:54:00.000-05:00

I think you're going to love this super easy Framed Lace Pendant tutorial!! This necklace is so elegant and has such a great vintage look to it, plus it's just so simple to make!!

INSPIRATION

This project was inspired by this pin on Pinterest...

SUPPLIES

Small frame pendant

Paper for background

Lace

Step 1: CUT BACKGROUND

Take apart the pieces of the frame

Trace the small cardboard backing onto your background paper.

Cut out the small piece of paper and make sure it fits in your frame.

Step 2: CUT LACE

Cut a small piece of lace to go on top of the background paper.

Step 3: PLACE IN FRAME

Stack the clear plastic on top of the lace, paper, and cardboard backing.

Put everything back inside the metal frame.

Optional: String onto a long piece of ribbon.

FINISHED!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Tutorial: Advanced Hand-Carved Eraser Stamp (Wood Grain)

2012-01-01T12:32:00.000-05:00

This tutorial is for a hand-carved stamp with a very detailed wood grain design. Although this is a short tutorial that requires only a few supplies, it is a very advanced project!

If you're just starting to carve stamps from erasers, you'll want to check out my Basic Hand-Carved Eraser Stamps Tutorial first. Before attempting this project, you should become familiar with carving erasers into stamps with simpler designs. Once you're comfortable with the basics of hand-carving stamps, then feel free to attempt this project.

For this project I used one of those really big erasers that are "For Big Mistakes". Hehehe I was able to get this 2"x6" eraser in the dollar section of a local craft store for just $1.

WARNING

This project is for adults only!!

Using a craft knife is very dangerous and you must be very careful!!

SUPPLIES

Printed image

Tracing paper

Pencil & Pen

Craft knife (X-acto knife)

Large eraser

Step 1: TRACE IMAGE

Print Image

Print the image you wish to turn into a stamp.

Trace Image

Place the printed image under a sheet of tracing paper.

Using pencil, trace the image onto the tracing paper very heavily.

Note: Feel free to take some creative liberty while tracing. The image doesn't have to be exactly like the printed image!! I added an extra knot to my wood grain.

Step 2: TRANSFER IMAGE

Transfer Image

Flip the tracing paper over and put the pencil side down onto the eraser.

While holding the paper steady, rub the paper with your finger.

Darken the Image

Trace the transferred image using a pen that won't damage the eraser.

Note: This will keep the image from rubbing off while carving.

Step 3: CARVE ERASER

The sketch above is of a side view of a carved stamp.

Imagine the blue rectangle is the original eraser and the red lines on top are the parts of the stamp you want to show up on paper.

When carving your stamp you'll want to carve into the eraser at an angle going away from your image. Try to not carve straight down and definitely don't carve under your image!!

Carve the Eraser

Using your craft knife, gently trace around the image while making sure to angle your blade away from the image.

Very carefully carve out the parts of the eraser that do not have your image on it and that you don't want as part of your stamp.

Note: Do not cut too deeply into the eraser if you're removing small areas of the eraser.

FINISHED

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Grand Re-Launch Giveaway

2011-12-31T23:30:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited that January 2012 is finally here because now I can officially relaunch my blog and host this amazing giveaway!!

Here's a recap of the 3 prize packages being given away in this BIG Grand Re-Launch Giveaway...

1st PRIZE PACKAGE

Large Flat Rate Box (12"x12"x5.5") of crafty goodies valued at over $100.00

(Click HERE for content list)

2nd PRIZE PACKAGE

8"x10" envelope of crafty goodies valued at over $40.00

(Click HERE for content list)

3rd PRIZE PACKAGE

8"x10" envelope of crafty goodies valued at over $35.00

(Click HERE for content list)

If you have never used Rafflecopter for entering a giveaway before, don't panic!! It's super easy to use, just follow the instructions in the widget and you'll receive your entries. The widget does require you to log in, but that's just so I'll be able to contact you if you win. If you have any questions or problems though, feel free to contact me!!

Have fun and good luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Real Quick...

2011-12-31T15:45:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to post a little note to everyone to mention a few little things.

First of all, please have a safe and Happy New Year's celebration tonight!! As for me, I'm having a homemade Cajun feast with friends followed by a night of crafting!! I can't wait for this evening to get here!!

I also want to let you know that I'll be publishing the other hand-carved stamp tutorial and the Framed Lace Pendant tutorial tomorrow. I'm sorry that they're going to be a bit late, but crafts and craft shopping kind of took over my past few days.

Last but not least, I just want to remind everyone that you'll be able to enter to win the Grand Re-Launch Giveaway at 12:01AM tonight!! Good luck to everyone!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Grand Re-Launch Fact Friday

2011-12-30T02:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the last edition of Fact Friday!!

I think you're going to be really excited to see today's fact and bonus photos, so let's get right to it!!

The 1st Prize Package will be a Large Flat-Rate (12"x12"x5") box full of crafty goodies valued at over $100!!

The package will contain the following items:

* $20 gift card to Jo-Ann’s
* Handmade Tree of Life Ornament valued at over $30
* Handmade Charm valued at over $5
* 3 New small acrylic stamps with block
* 1 New small stamp pad
* Vintage ephemera
* 15 1-foot sections of lace
* 2 New spools of ribbon
* 1 New 4.5”x6.5” scrapbook paper pad
* Assorted papers from my stash
* 3"x3" bag of assorted beads from my stash

* 4"x4" bag of assorted charms & findings from my stash
* 3 Metal bookmark findings
* 1 Gallon-size zip lock bag of fabric pieces ranging from 3”x3” up to a ¼ yard or more
* 15 ATC Blanks
* 2 Small paper punches

* 1 Small bag of unfinished wood pieces
* 1 Small bag of plastic gems
* 1 New decorative skeleton key
* 1 Small Bag of Buttons
* 1 Quart-size bag of felt

* 3"x3" bag of assorted trim, cord and specialty ribbon

* 3 Organza necklace cords

* 3 Braided leather necklace cords

Pretty amazing prize package, huh?!?

Now that you know exactly what each prize contains, I figured I'd show you a collage of each of the prize packages so you can see just how awesome they are!!

1st Prize Package

2nd Prize Package

3rd Prize Package

Remember that you can start obtaining your entries at 12:01AM on Sunday, January 1st!! You'll have until 12:01AM on January 31st to enter!! Don't miss this great giveaway!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

A Big Thank You & A Felt Storage Tip

2011-12-28T19:45:00.002-05:00

I want to take a moment and say a big "Thank You" to...

My readers and followers...

Without you, there would be no Lisa's Craft Blog!! It's because of my readers that I take the time and put in the effort to write the posts and tutorials. I appreciate each and every one of you that take time out of your day to visit my little corner of the blogosphere. It really means the world to me!!

Those that comment on my posts...

Each comment I receive brightens my day more than I can express. Your compliments are so encouraging to read and the ideas you add to my projects are so very inspiring!! I truly love getting each and every comment!!

Bloggers that feature my projects & blog...

I definitely need to thank the blogs that have featured my projects since November. I get so (ridiculously) excited each time one of my tutorials is featured on another blog...it's actually kinda funny how happy it makes me!! hehehe

Here are all of the blogs that featured my projects over the past 2 months!! Please check each of them out because they totally rock!!

Today, Terri from A Creative Princess was kind enough to publish an entire post totally dedicated to my little craft blog!! She is so sweet for saying all of the super nice things about my blog in her post today!! Please take a moment to visit A Creative Princess!!

FELT STORAGE TIP

I've actually been storing my felt this way for quite some time and today I finally realized that you would probably want to see this nifty little idea too!!

I started by stacking my sheets of felt in color order. Once my stack got to be about 8" tall, I grabbed a $1 reusable grocery bag that I had on hand and turned it on it's side. I put the stack of felt inside the bag in the stack and then started on my next 8" stack. When I had that stack ready I added it to the pile in the bag. I did this until all of my felt was stacked inside the bag and then turned the back right-side up.

Ta-Da!! Portable and organized felt storage!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time!!

Tutorial: Big Zakka Owl Stuffie

2011-12-28T03:30:00.000-05:00

Back in May I posted a tutorial on how to make the little Zakka Owls, and today I'll show you how to make a BIG, 1-foot Zakka Owl stuffie like the giant one above!! How fun!!

SUPPLIES

1/2 yard - Soft fabric for body

1/3 yard - Coordinating soft fabric for belly

1 sheet - White felt

2 sheets - Felt for eye patches and bottom

2 - 1"+ Black buttons

Embroidery floss

Large-hole sewing needle

Step 1: CUT FABRIC

This is the trickiest part of this project because you're going to have to free-hand this pattern onto your fabric. Then again, you could take the pattern to a professional printer to have it enlarged if you really wanted to.

The pattern can be downloaded HERE.

Free-hand the patterns onto your fabrics.

The Owl Body should be about 18" tall and the Owl Belly should be about 10"-12"" tall.

Note: When free-handing the pattern, it doesn't have to be exactly like the pattern. The most important thing to is that Owl Belly piece is about 2/3 as tall as the Owl Body piece.

Step 2: BEGIN TO SEW BODY

I like to use 3 of the 6 threads in embroidery floss and I use a back-stitch for this step, but you’re welcome to use a sewing machine instead.
With the wrong sides of the fabric facing each other, sew the edge of the Owl Belly (B) to the right edge of the Owl Body (A) starting at the bottom corner.
Tie a knot when you reach the upper point of the Owl Belly (B) and cut your string.

Step 3: CONTINUE TO SEW BODY

Repeat Step 2 on the left side of the Owl Body (A), just as you did on the right side, but do not tie a knot or cut your string.

Fold your fabric down the center as in the image above and continue sewing up to the top of the Owl Body (A).

Tie a knot and cut your string.

When finished with this step, unfold your piece and it should look similar to the second sketch in the image above

Step 3: CREATE HEAD

Turn fabric right side out.

Fold just below the red line and stitch the top point (red dot) to the owl’s belly.

Note: When sewing the point to the belly, make sure it is centered, left-to-right, otherwise your owl will have a crooked beak!

Step 4: ADD EYES

EYE PATCHES

Prior to sewing on the eye patches, pin them in place so they will be level and equally apart.

Use 6 threads of coordinating embroidery floss and sew a blanket stitch around the eye patches.

EYE WHITES

Pin the whites of the eyes close to the inside edge of the eye patches, but don’t cover your nifty blanket stitch.

Use 6 threads of white embroidery floss and sew a blanket stitch around the eye whites, just as you did the eye patches.

EYE PUPILS

Sew the black buttons in the center of the eye whites (for a wide-eyed look).

You can also sew the buttons toward the inside (for a bit of a cross-eyed or confused look), or even out to the sides (for a crazy look).

Step 5: ADD BEAK

Cut a piece of orange/brown felt to cover the folded down point.

Pin it in place and blanket stitch around the entire beak using 6 strands of coordinating embroidery floss.

Note: I rounded the top of the beak for this owl, but you could always experiment with different looks too.

Step 6: SEW BOTTOM

Sew a running stitch around the base of the owl, about 1/4"-1/2" away from the bottom edge.

Pull the thread in order to create a hole that's about 4"-5" in diameter.

Tie a knot, but don’t cut the thread.

Stuff with PolyFill.

Using a running stitch, sew the Owl Bottom to the base of the owl making sure to cover the cinched stitches.

FINISHED!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

I've submitted this tutorial to the...

Tutorial: Basic Hand-Carved Eraser Stamps

2011-12-27T00:30:00.000-05:00

This tutorial actually contains instructions for all 3 of these stamps so it's going to be a really long post, but it'll be super informative!!

In this post I'll show you...

- A list of the supplies you need for stamp carving

- Some stamp carving basics that apply to all hand-carved stamps

- Instructions for a "sliced" heart-shaped stamp that anyone (adult) can make

- How to carve an exclamation point (!) stamp for beginners

- A complete tutorial on making word stamps

Some tutorials you'll see online require either linoleum carving tools or wood carving tools. This tutorial only requires a craft knife for carving and I know most of you have an X-acto knife already!!

Before I get into the tutorials, I need to apologize first. The photos in this post are not good at all!! I desperately need a new camera, because my little $99 camera is not cutting it. Thanks for bearing with me until I get a new one.

One last thing before I start...

WARNING

This craft project is for adults only!!

Using a craft knife is very dangerous and you must be very careful!!

Now, let's get to the stamp carving!!

SUPPLIES

Eraser

Craft knife (Exacto Knife)

Pencil & Pen

Tracing Paper

STAMP CARVING BASICS

BUYING ERASERS

Before you go to the office supply store to buy your erasers, go to the dollar store instead!! I was able to get six 1"x2" erasers plus 12 erasers that go on the end of a pencil for just $1!! That's about 15-cents per large eraser!! Super affordable!!

CARVING DIRECTION

Always carve away from your body and never towards a finger or body part!!

The sketch above is of a side view of a carved stamp.

Imagine the blue rectangle is the original eraser and the red lines on top are the parts of the stamp you want to show up on paper.

When carving your stamp you'll want to carve into the eraser at an angle going away from your image. Try to not carve straight down and definitely don't carve under your image!!

Don't worry this will make more sense in the photos later on. hehehe

PREPARING THE ERASERS

Most erasers that people carve are shaped like a parallelogram.

When you get your erasers, you'll need to trim off those sizes so that it's a rectangle.

Don't throw away the pieces you cut off!! You can make super tiny stamps with those!!

"SLICED" HEART TUTORIAL

If you're not quite ready to "carve" stamps yet, you can get used to cutting into erasers with this project!!

Just remember that for this stamp you'll cut straight down and in regular stamps, you will carve at an angle.

Note: In the sketches below, the blue lines are the current eraser piece and the red lines are the cuts you'll be making.

Step 1: MAKE A TRIANGLE

Start with a square piece of eraser.

Cut two lines all the way through the eraser from the top corners to the center of the bottom side.

Step 2: REMOVE TOP POINTS

Cut the tips off of the top 2 points of the triangle.

Step 3: ADD "V"

Cut a "V"-shaped piece out of the top center.

Step 4: ROUND EDGES

Cut the tips off the points at the top.

If there are any points remaining, cut them off until you have almost round edges.

FINISHED!!

THE BEGINNER'S STAMP

This is a great first project for someone that's never carved a stamp before, because it has both straight lines and a circle. Plus, it's a very easy image to start with.

Step 1: SKETCH IMAGE

Using a pencil, hand sketch your exclamation point on your eraser.

Step 2: CARVE STRAIGHT EDGES

Slice your blade down around the straight edges of the top of the exclamation point.

Carefully remove the eraser material you don't want in your stamp by cutting into the side of the eraser.

Be sure to not cut too far though!!

Step 3: CARVE ROUND EDGES

Gently trace around the circle making sure to angle your blade away from the circle.

Carefully remove the excess eraser material.

FINISHED!!

MAKING WORD STAMPS
For the longest time, my stamps were turning out backwards!! Then I learned how to do the tracing paper transfer technique that I'll show you below!! Now I can make all kinds of word stamps!!
You can also use this technique for any images that need to go in a particular direction.

Step 1: TRACE TEMPLATE

Determine how big your image can be on a piece of tracing paper.
Using pencil, sketch or trace the word onto the tracing paper making sure there's a heavy layer of pencil on the paper.

Step 2: TRANSFER IMAGE

Place the paper image-side-down on your eraser.
Rub the image with your finger, pushing the paper onto the eraser so the image transfers properly.

Step 3: TRACE WITH INK

To make sure the transferred image doesn't rub off while your working on the stamp, just trace the image with an ink pen. Just make sure the pen won't damage the eraser and won't smear.

Step 4: CARVE

Gently trace around the letters making sure to angle your blade away from the image.

Carefully remove the eraser material you don't want in your stamp by cutting into the side of the eraser.

Be sure to not cut too far though!!

FINISHED!!

So now that you know how to carve stamps, just promise me you won't get addicted to this craft!!! hehehe
This really is a super fun craft and I constantly go back to it time and time again!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

Tutorial: Christmas Card Book

2011-12-25T23:30:00.000-05:00

Even though I said that the Elf House Ornament was going to be the last Christmas craft tutorial of the year, I thought you all would really enjoy this Christmas Card Book tutorial!!

This tutorial will show you how to make a really neat (and pretty) book of the Christmas cards you receive each year!! It even uses Christmas wrapping paper on the covers!!

At the end of the tutorial, I'll list some additional options for this project and ways you can totally change it up!!

GATHER SUPPLIES

Chipboard

Wrapping paper from this year

Coordinating cardstock

Coordinating 1/8" satin ribbon

Cover decorations

Crop-a-dial (or similar tool)

Eyelets

Hole reinforcing stickers

Glue

Step 1: PREP COVER SUPPLIES

CHIPBOARD PIECES

You will need to cut 2 pieces of chipboard for your covers.

To determine the size of your chipboard pieces, do the following:

- Measure the longest/tallest card you received and add 1/2" to that measurement; this will be your height.

- Measure the widest card you want to include and add 1/2" to that measurement; this will be your width.

WRAPPING PAPER PIECES

You'll need 4 pieces of wrapping paper to cover the chipboard pieces.

2 of the wrapping paper pieces will be about 2" longer and wider than your chipboard pieces.

The other 2 wrapping paper pieces should be 1/2" to 1" shorter and narrower than your chipboard pieces.

Step 2: DECORATE COVERS

COVER THE FRONT OF EACH COVER

Lay one of the larger pieces of wrapping paper face down and center chipboard cover on top.

Fold over the two longer edges and glue in place.

Fold in the corners as shown above.

Note: When using wrapping paper in this project, be very careful because the wrapping can tear pretty easily.

Fold and glue down the other two edges.

Repeat these steps for the other cover.

COVER THE BACK OF EACH COVER

Glue the smaller wrapping paper pieces in the center of the backs in order to cover the rest of the chipboard that's showing.

DECORATE

Decorate the front of the front cover.

Note: I just added a title and left it at that, but I may add more later.

Step 3: ADD HOLES

COVER

Using a Crop-a-Dile or similar tool, punch the following 3 holes about 1/2" away from the "binding" side of your covers:

- One hole should be perfectly centered.

- The other two holes should be 1/2" to 1.5" from the top and bottom.

Using the Crop-a-Dile or other eyelet tool, add eyelets to each of the holes making sure the "nice" side of the eyelets are on the outsides of the covers.

CARDSTOCK PAGES

I decided to add a piece of cardstock immediately inside each cover to protect both the cards and the wrapping paper. These 2 pages measure 1/2" shorter and narrower than the covers.

Line up the "binding" side edges of the wrapped covers and cardstock pages making sure the cardstock is centered.

Mark where the holes need to go by making a dot through each cover hole onto the page.

Punch them out using the same tool you used on the covers.

I added hole reinforcing stickers to each hole I punched in the cardstock so it wouldn't tear later on.

CARDS

Before punching the holes in your cards, you'll want to determine which side will go on the "binding" side of the book. I chose the folded edge of the cards and the tops of the photo cards.

Punching the holes in the cards is a bit more complicated and is different for longer and shorter cards.

Longer cards

Line the folded edge up with the cover as you did with the cardstock pages.

Mark where the holes need to go by making a dot through each of the cover's 3 holes onto the card.

Punch out the holes using the same tool as earlier.

Shorter cards (not long enough for all 3 holes)

Line the folded edge up along the "binding" side edges of the covers, but instead of centering the card, place it 1/4" to 1/2" from the top.

Mark where the holes need to go by making a dot through the cover's top 2 holes onto the card.
Punch out the holes using the same tool as earlier.

Step 4: BIND BOOK

Stack your covers, pages, & cards in this order (bottom to top):

Back cover

Back cardstock page

Cards (from tallest to shortest)

Front cardstock page

Front cover

Using 8" to 10" lengths of 1/8" satin ribbon, tie loose double knots and add bows.

FINISHED!!

Now wasn't that a fun project!! I had a blast making my book and I know you will too!! Here are the other ideas I had for the projects...

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

There are so many other items you can add to these little books and they have sooo much potential for other projects as well!! I'd like to take a moment to mention just a couple of the ideas I've come up with so far!!

OTHER ADDABLE CONTENT

There are so many other things you can save in this book besides just cards!! What if the title were just "Christmas 2011" rather than "Christmas Cards 2011"? You could add things such as...

*The card and/or newsletter you mailed that year

*Received newsletters & photos

*Handwritten memories from that Christmas

*Christmas Photos

and a ton of other memorabilia items!!

SPECIAL EVENT CARDS

This project could be used to save your cards from really special events such as...

*Birthdays

*Anniversaries

*Weddings

*Bridal showers

*Baby showers

*Birth of a child

and many others!!

CHILD'S VALENTINE BOOK

Children get a ton of adorable valentines from their classmates and this would be a great way to remember all of that cuteness!! You could even have your child decorate the covers!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

I've submitted this tutorial to the...

Merry Christmas!! and a Preview!!

2011-12-25T16:27:00.001-05:00

I just had to write a quick post to say "Merry Christmas" to each and every visitor, reader, and follower!! I want you to know that I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to visit my little blog!!

Although it's not much and certainly not nearly enough, I have a small Christmas "gift" for you over the course of the next 7 days, starting tomorrow. It's a pretty exciting schedule here at Lisa's Craft Blog so I'll give you a sneak peek!!

Monday, December 26th

Tutorial: Christmas Card Book

A great tutorial showing how to make a super simple book containing all of the Christmas Cards you received that year!! Perfect for the time between Christmas and New Year's!!

Tuesday, December 27th

Tutorial: Hand-Carved Stamps - Simple Images

A step-by-step tutorial on how to use a basic craft knife (X-acto knife) and a 15-cent eraser to make two 1"x1" stamps!!

Wednesday, December 28th

Tutorial: Big Zakka Owl Stuffie

A super fun tutorial showing how to make a 1-foot tall version of the Zakka Owls from the tutorial HERE.

Thursday, December 29th

Tutorial: Hand-Carved Stamps - Intricate Images

Another tutorial about carving your own stamps from erasers, but this time I'll show how to transfer really detailed designs, such as wood grain, to your eraser and then carve it out.

Friday, December 30th

Grand Re-Launch Fact Friday

A super exciting post with a list of all the contents in the 1st Place prize package for January's BIG giveaway along with photos of the contents of all 3 prize packages too!!

Saturday, December 31st

Tutorial: Framed Lace Necklace

A really quick tutorial and project for a really beautiful necklace!!

Sunday, January 1st

Grand Re-Launch & Giveaway Finally Begins!!

This is the day that I begin celebrating the official Grand Re-Launch of my blog and at 12:01AM you can start earning entries for the big giveaway!!

Monday, January 2nd

Lisa's Linky List #1

My first weekly linky party will start this day and run through the Saturday with the features being announced on the following Monday.

I'm really exited about the next 7 days and I hope you are too now that you have an idea of what's coming up next!!

I hope you're all having a wonderful Christmas and I wish you the happiest of New Years!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...