My Fabulous Thrift Store Make-Over

I almost passed on this plain 8 drawer cabinet last April while visiting my daughter in Madison.

I didn’t really need it, I have too much stuff, would there be room in the car?  (geez!)

It was sitting there in the Thrift Store for only $8.  They had just put it out that day.

I had to take it home.  (I just had too.)

Stenciling the drawer 8355

As soon as I got it home, I painted it with a couple coats of black paint and gave

it a clear wax coat.  It sat in my office that way for the next four months.

(I’m starting to notice a pattern here.)  Anyway…. I decided that the cabinet needed more.

After receiving these cool number stencil,

Deco Art Americana Decor Stencil, Old World Numbers*    (*affiliate link)

and Whisper Chalky Finish Paint* from DecoArt as part of their Blogger Outreach Program,

I stenciled each drawer 1-8.

To keep the numbers from looking too new or bright, I lightly sanded over the letters with a

extra fine sanding block and applied another coat of clear wax.

Drawer Close Up 8446

My hubby helped me put on these vintage looking drawer pulls I’d found on Etsy.

I spent more than twice as much on the drawer pulls than I did the cabinet.

Black Cabinet 8444

I’m so happy with the way it turned out.  Doesn’t it look beautiful?

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Disclaimer:  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

Getting Creative with Resin

Getting Creative with Resin 8181

I’ve always wanted to use resin in a project but have always felt somewhat intimidated.

Thanks to an opportunity with Environmental Technology Inc., the makers of

jewelry resin and much more, I finally got my chance.

 

EnviroTex Jewelry Resin

And… after watching this video.  I felt confident to start.

I couldn’t believe how easy it was and how happy I was with the results.

The hardest part was deciding what to make and what to fill.

Halloween before the resin 2880 Creative before the resin 2883

For my Projects:

  • I started with some over-sized bottle caps from Maya Road which I spray painted black.
  • I used a circle punch to make a background from scrapbook paper.
  • I used dimensional stickers, metal pieces, regular stickers and glued everything in place using  white craft glue.
  • I measured and mixed the resin according to the instructions and filled the bottle caps.
  • Then it was time to wait for the resin to cure.

waiting for the resin to cure

The original plan was to add a hanger on the back, and use them as a decoration.

But… I had a better idea and decided to add a magnet to the back instead.

I really, really like them.

Resin Work in Progress 2908

Now that I’ve seen how easy it is, I’ve got a few more things in the works.

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*Disclaimer:  This post uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

Painting on Acrylic Frames

Painting on Acrylic Frames

With all this new Home Décor chalk paint out on the market…

with it’s claims of being able to paint on most anything.  I decided to give it a test.

I’ve used it on wood, old frames, stuff like that.

Acrylic frames?  It was worth a try.

Creating a mask 5889

I created a mask using blue painters tape and applied it onto the front of a

Mini 3″ x 4″ Sign Holder* (*affiliate link) from Deflecto Craft Solutions.

Make sure to burnish the edges of the tape.

adding red paint 5890

I painted the surface of the frame with:

FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint in Imperial*

I used 3 coats of paint.  Make sure to allow good drying time in between coats.

adding black paint 5897

After allowing plenty of time for the red paint to dry and cure.

I gave the frame an aged look by applying a layer of Tattered Angels Decor and DIY Paint*

I wiped it off with a damp paper towel.  Leaving bits of the black streaks.

Crackle Stamp 5899

I stamped around the edges of the frame with a crackle background stamp

and  Tsukineko StazOn Ink Pad, Jet Black*

Carefully remove the blue painter’s tape mask.

At this point, I stopped and admired my frame for almost a month.

Just waiting for inspiration….

Rachael Cunningham Parr 7560

Meet Rachael Cunningham Parr. 

I found Rachel, a tin type, years ago while hunting for treasures.

If Rachael is your relative, I’m pretty sure she wasn’t really a gypsy.

(She really is a beautiful woman.)

I embellished the frame with some vintage rickrack, key, and a tiny flower.

“R is for Racheal” was made with Metal Type Charms by Tim Holtz*

Once inspired…  I created a couple more frames.

The frames uses charms and hardware from Canvas Corps Brands 

and Chitchat Word Stickers by Tim Holtz*.

Now to try this on a bigger frame!

 “This is a sponsored post. As a member of the Deflecto Design Team I have been provided product in exchange for my creative ideas, views and opinions.”

*Disclaimer:  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

Creating a Decorative Display Board for all my Little Pretties

Smoothfoam Display Board 07114

My project started as a Memo Board and… 

While I was looking for some push pins I stumbled across a collection of little pretties.

Tucked away in a cabinet along with a lot of other embellishments were these little

metal frames.  Something that I’d been hoarding since my K & Company days.

I added those frames along with some other little pretties onto my board.  (Love!)

Memo Board Products

To make my Memo/Display Board I used:            (*amazon affiliate link)

Directions:

  1. Paint wood frame with cream acrylic paint.
  2. Cut the Smoothfoam sheet a 1/4″ larger than the center opening of the frame.
  3. Apply spray adhesive to the front of the Smoothfoam and lay onto the fabric.
  4. Wrap and glue the fabric around the back of the Smoothfoam.
  5. Glue the frame onto the front of the covered Smoothfoam.
  6. Decorate the top and bottom of the frame with dimensional flowers.

*My little pretties are stuck into the display board with decorative garment pins.

A really fast and easy project.

This project was created for and sponsored by Smoothfoam.

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Disclaimer:  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

DIY: Mini Crate Make-Over

Red Crate 5878

DIY Mini Crate Make Over…

Because sometimes a girl changes her mind.

crate 4158

It all started with this…  My Sweet Earth Day Tea Party Crate. (←original post)

A cute cream and pink crate with a pretty pink flower.

It was perfect for what I wanted at the time.

But… always resourceful, I decided to reuse the mini crate* (*affiliate link) in my work space.

Because my work space has a vintage vibe… a mini make over was in order.

Paint with Red Chalk Paint 5173

I took off the flower embellishment and gave the mini crate* a light sanding.

Then I painted the crate with FOLKART Home Decor Chalk, Imperial*.

Being an impatient crafter, I was tempted to start my next color right away.  Make sure to wait.

Allow a couple of hours for the piece to dry before adding the next color.  (trust me)

Paint a thin coat of black paint 5182

Next, I gave the crate a light coating with Black Home Décor paint.

Use a small paint brush to get into those corners.

With a soft, damp, clean cloth, wipe off the black paint to give it an aged distressed look.

I used Tattered Angels Décor in Ebony*.

extra red highlights5200

If you start to think it looks to dark, just add highlights with the red paint directly over the

ebony paint.  If you like a matte finish, you can stop right here.

I wanted a little more sheen, so I applied FOLKART Plaid Clear Home Decor Wax*.

With the wax, you apply a thin coat, wait one hour and buff with a clean soft cloth.

I’ve always loved furniture with that aged red finish and wanted to give it a try.

Now that I’ve started with something small, (which is always a good idea)

I’ve got my eye on a couple more pieces I’d like to refinish.

FYI:  If you’d like a mini crate like mine you can get it at online at Amazon* or Walnut Hollow.

This project was sponsored by Walnut Hollow, Canvas Corp and Plaid. 

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DIY No Sew Pillows to Dye for…

A Pillow to Dye For

Recently, I participated with a group of Designers in a Manufacturer Challenge sponsored by

Fairfield World the makers of Pillow Forms, Batting, Poly-fil®… and a whole lot more.

After a little good natured trash talking between the designers, the challenge was dubbed the

“Pillow Fight” and with that it was game on.

Not being much of a seamstress I knew I had to take it in another direction.

Hopefully, what I lack in sewing skills I’m making up for in quantity and possibly inspiration

for other non-sowers like me.

If you happened to see my post, “Tie-Dying with Nick” then you’ll know I’m on a little bit

of a tie-dying kick.  (why stop now?   oh… and make sure to check out the bonus project at the end.)

Nick's Tie Dye Pillow 6430Warren's Pillow

Here are a couple of pillows I made for my grandsons using a one-step tie-dye kit

and the Ombre Technique.  (see instructions below)

It was such a fun and easy project that I let my grandson in on the fun.

Thanks to canvas pillow squares and pillow forms there is no sewing involved.

(The red pillow above also uses the ombre Technique only with one color of dye.)

Iron-On embroidered letters allowed me to easily personalize the pillows for the boys.

Nick and the Ombre Technique

For my No Sew Pillows I used:                                                                  (*amazon affiliate links)

These are the instructions included with the Tulip dye kit.

  1. Apply dye.
  2. Dip brush into dye and apply.
  3. Dip brush into water and apply.
  4. Cover dyed fabric with plastic wrap to keep damp.
  5. Let set for 6-8 hours or longer for intense colors.
  6. Rinse well with water until excess dye is removed.
  7. Fill washer to “large load” setting with hottest water suitable for fabric and a small amount of laundry soap.  Wash and dry separately.  Wash separately for the first few washes.

Directions for Stenciling:

The pattern on the Red Pillow was made using the 12″ Doily Stencil*.

  1. Lay protective paper layer inside the canvas pillow square before stenciling.
  2. Center and tape stencil onto pillow with removable painter’s tape so that the stencil won’t move.
  3. Stenciling is a “dry” brush technique. Using a stencil brush, dip just the tip of your brush into the paint. Tap off excess paint before applying to prevent the paint from seeping under the edges of the stencil.
  4. Apply paint with stencil brush in a straight up and down motion called stippling.
  5. Stuff pillow with pillow form or Poly-fil®.

And for an added bonus… Tie Dyed Socks!!!  (Someone stop me)

Tie Dyed Socks

This project was sponsored by Fairfield World, Canvas Corp Brand, Tulip Brand and DecoArt.

*DisclaimerThis post uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

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Tie-Dying With Nick

Tie Dying with Nick

CUTE KID ALERT:  I love working on crafts with Nicholas and his Mommy.

Last Sunday, we decided to Tie Dye t-shirts.

It all started because of a Tulip One-Step Mini Tie-Dye Kit-Neon* (affiliate link) I received

free last February after a CHA Fave Crafts Designer Event from Tulip and I Love to Create.

I had been meaning to use it, but, hadn’t gotten around to it yet.

Using the squeeze bottles made it so much easier and less messy than the old way of tie-dying.

We had so much fun with this project that Bonnie (Nick’s Mommy) went out and bought a

larger kit the next day.  This past Sunday, when everyone came over for Father’s Day,

we tie-dyed Red White and Blue t-shirts and socks with the kids.

Just saying “a little addicting”.

Choosing the design

The kit came with a large full color sheet of designs, techniques and instructions.

For the boys shirts we did the “swirl” technique.

Nicholas and Warren Fronts and Backs

For Bonnie’s shirts we did the “crumple” and “ombre” techniques.  (no pictures, darn)

Nicholas and Warren 2

It doesn’t get much cuter than this!

I used this picture in a frame for their Daddy’s Father’s Day gift.

Many Faces of Nick Collage

This post would not be complete without including the “Many Faces of Nick“.

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DIY Wedding Projects Day #5: Gift Tag

DIY Wedding Project Day #5 Wedding Tag

Congratulations on your Special Day!

Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays… customize a tag to fit the celebration.

I hope you enjoyed my DIY Wedding Projects this week and feel inspired to make

a few DIY projects of you own.

For me… The joy is in the making.  (and the giving, of course)

Shop Handmade – The Wedding Store

Wedding Tag Supplies Needed:

Directions for Wedding Tag:

  1. Cut a 3 1/2” x 6 1/4” tag out of scrapbook paper.
  2. To create the pleated ribbon you will need 12” of the Pierre Ivory ribbon. Fold 1/2” end of the ribbon under and secure with a mini glue dot.
  3. Turn ribbon over and create pleats by folding and gluing each fold inside and under securing with mini glue dot.
  4. Glue pleated ribbon onto bottom of the tag.
  5. For added detail, glue Galena 1/8” silver ribbon over pleated ribbon.
  6. Glue Design Chain Tracy-Silver onto tag above pleated ribbon.
  7. Cut 12” of Antique White 7/8” ribbon.
  8. Using the needle and thread with a long tail, make a simple running stitch down one side of the ribbon.
  9. Gather ribbon together with thread and tie in the center to form the ribbon rosette flower.
  10. Glue a gem cut from the Design Chain Tracy onto the center of the flower.
  11. Create and print computer generated greetings on to cream card-stock.
  12. Cut greetings down and edge card-stock with silver leaf pen.
  13. Adhere first greeting to tag using double stick tape runner, allowing part of the greeting to hang over edge of the tag.
  14. Glue Ribbon Flower onto tag above first greeting.
  15. Glue Gleaming leaves under flower.
  16. Add second greetings to the Deco Ice stick pin. Leave enough room on the card-stock greeting to fold around the pin and adhere.
  17. Stick Deco Ice pin into the glued flower.
  18. Insert remaining 7/8” Antique White Satin Ribbon into top hole on tag.
  19. Fold 5/8” Antique White Satin Ribbon to form a bow. Tie and knot around the center of the bow with the cream twine.
  20. Tie bow around 7/8” ribbon and secure.
  21. Thread small cream button on ends of the twine and secure on the front of the bow with a knot.

Disclaimer:  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

DIY Wedding Projects Day #4: Wedding Album

Wedding Album 2

Preserve your memories from weddings, anniversaries, and more, in this beautiful burlap covered scrapbook or photo album. Embellish the cover with ribbon, gems, twine and more for a personalized look you will love.

Supplies Needed:

  • 1 yd. Gazette 2” Ribbon: Raw Silk
  • ½ yd. Antique White Double Faced Satin 7/8”
  • ½ yd. Lucy Ivory Lace
  • 2 Gems from Design Chain Tracy-Silver
  • Twine
  • Chic Silver Leaves
  • Pre-Made 5” x 7” Burlap Covered Scrapbook Album
  • 3” Chipboard Heart
  • Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive*  (affiliate link)
  • Needle and Thread

Wedding Album Directions:

  1. Cut approx. 16-18” of Gazette Raw Silk Ribbon. Using the needle and thread with a long tail, make a simple running stitch down one side of the ribbon.
  2. Gather ribbon together with thread and tie in the center to form the ribbon rosette.
  3. Create a second ribbon rosette using 12” of 7/8” Antique White Double-Faced Satin Ribbon.
  4. Glue Antique White rosette onto the center of the Raw Silk rosette.
  5. Cut a gem from the Design Chain Tracy-Silver and glue to the center of the rosette flower.
  6. Wrap 12” piece of Gazette Raw Silk Ribbon with the ends meeting centered on the front of the album. Glue ends to the album.
  7. Wrap a 12” piece of Lucy Ivory Lace around album, again meeting centered on the front of the album. Glue ends to album.
  8. Glue Ribbon flower onto front of the album cover the ends of the lace and ribbon.
  9. Bend slightly the ends of the Chic Silver Leaves and glue onto the album with the ends underneath the flower.
  10. Wrap twine around the chipboard a couple of times and tie with a bow.
  11. Glue a small gem cut from the Design Chain Tracy-Silver onto the center of the twine bow.
  12. Glue chipboard heart onto the front of the album.

Shop Handmade – The Wedding Store

Disclaimer:  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

DIY Wedding Projects Day #3: Wedding Votive

DIY Wedding Votive

Make a statement with Soft and Elegant candle lights on each table. 

This frosted votive will make quite the impact and will fit with several types of wedding décor.

It’s super quick and easy to make.

Tip…Pair with the DIY Vase Table Maker from Day #1

DIY Wedding Votive Supplies Needed:                                       (*Affiliate Link)

Time Needed for Completion: 1 hour plus drying time

Shop Your Fav Brands at Scrapbook.com

*Disclosure:  “This is a sponsored post.  I have been provided product in exchange for my creative ideas.  The views and opinions are my own.”  This blog uses ads and affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) that helps offset the costs of maintaining this blog.  Thanks for your support!

wedding votive applying glue

  • Generously apply Tacky Glue around the side of the jar. Do not put glue on the top neck or bottom of jar.

Wedding Votive Applying Epson Salt

  •   Cover jar with Epson Salt. Allow to dry.

Directions for decorating the votive:

  1. Thread two Blingella Beads onto a length of Quasar ribbon. Tie ribbon around neck of the jar with a knot. Trim and knot ends of Quasar ribbon to hold the beads in place. A little bit of glue on the ends of each knot will add extra security to the beads.
  2. Tie Pierre Ivory Ribbon around the neck of the jar with a knot. Trim ends.
  3. Cut approx. 12” of Antique White Satin ribbon.
  4. With the needle and thread with long tail, make a simple running stitch down one side of the ribbon.  (*see basic flower assembly picture)
  5. Gather ribbon together with thread and tie in the center to form the ribbon rosette.
  6. Glue gem to center of ribbon flower and glue finished flower onto the knot of the Pierre Ribbon.
  7. Glue gleaming leaf behind flower.
  8. Add Tea Light Candle.

Basic Flower Assembly from Wedding Frame (Day #2)

Make sure to check all the 5 days of the DIY Wedding Projects.

Shop Handmade – The Wedding Store

This project was sponsored by Offray Ribbon.