12 Apr

Forever Tulips

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

*Project by Amy @ Nap Time Crafters for the Dollar Store challenge*

Come tiptoe through the tulips with me!

We don’t have a yard, but I still wanted to celebrate spring with some cheerful tulips.

I found a darling pink bucket and some charming butterflies in the Target dollar aisle and then headed to the dollar store for some craft foam and rocks. If my scrap bin wasn’t already overflowing I could’ve also picked up some dollar store tees to make the tulips with. Mother nature was kind enough to let me use some twigs for the stems.

With a bit of time and $4 we’re ready for spring! And my tulips will last forever too!

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12 Apr

Perfect Swim Bag

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Speechless. Thank you so much for voting me through to the end. Thank you so much for supporting me. Thank you so much for creating me to inspire. I am truly blessed by all of you.

Now for the tutorial you all have been waiting for.
You will need:

1 Yard of Solid Fabric For The Bottom

2 Yards of a Print Fabric For The Lining

1 Yard of a Print Fabric For The Top
1 Yard of Iron-on Interfacing
4 Yards of Iron on Vinyl
4 Yards of Double Sided Adhesive Stabilizer
1.5 Yards of Vinyl Table Cloth Material for The Bottom Inside
1 Package of Sew-on Velcro
1 Package of 1/4 inch Elastic
Coordinating Thread

Alright. Don’t be too overwhelmed. It’s allot of supplies. That is because the bag is Large, and sturdy. But These step by step directions are very detailed. And you can do it!!! Let’s get started. If you aren’t sure of what the supplies are listed above please visit this post, I have linked to what I used.
Grab your double sided adhesive stabilizer and cut out the following size pieces: (3) 16in X 14in, (2) 14in X 14in, (2) 14in X 3in, (1) 15in X 13in, and (1) 16in X 3in.

Then grab your Vinyl Table Cloth Material and cut the same sizes out as above. Place the coordinating size pieces of the the stabilizer and the table cloth together and head on over to your ironing board. Lay your stabilizer on your ironing board, then lay down the vinyl table cloth piece, and then cover with paper towels.

Put your iron on a medium heat setting and iron really well. If you iron is too hot, you can melt the vinyl table cloth material. You just want to smooth out the wrinkles and adhere it to the stabilizer. So Medium heat works perfect for this. Keep the ironing moving as well.

Repeat this process with all of the pieces you have cut so far.

Now grab your solid color fabric. Lay it out flat and put the pieces which you just ironed down on it, with one exception. You can set one piece measuring 16in X 14in to the side. Cut out each piece in the solid fabric. This will be used to make the bottom of the bag.

Take each of those colored pieces and cut out a coordinating piece of iron on vinyl. And then follow the directions on the vinyl to iron it to the right sides of the solid fabric. (It’s easy to do, Remove the vinyl from the backing. Lay the vinyl on the fabric, flip over the backing and lay it on the vinyl. Iron on a medium setting for 8 seconds in each area, keep the iron moving. Flip over the fabric and iron for 4 seconds in each area. Once the fabric is cooled, remove the backing) Do this to all the pieces except the 16in X14in that you set aside in the previous step. Then take the piece that you have already ironed together, (the stabilizer and vinyl table cloth) and set it on your ironing board with the stabilizer side facing up. Lay the solid color fabric on it with the vinyl side up. Cover with a paper towel or the backing from the iron on vinyl and iron on medium heat just until the solid color adheres to the stabilizer, it happens really quick! You do not want to do this to the following pieces: (1) 15in X 13in, (2) 14in X 3in, and (1) 16in X 3 in. You will also have the piece you set aside before cutting the solid color fabric which is 16in X 14in.

Now take the 15in X 13 in piece that you set aside. Lay the piece down with the stabilizer and then the vinyl table cloth on top. Then lay down the solid color with the iron on vinyl down first. Sew around both the shorter sides and one longer side with 1/2 inch seam allowance. This makes a pocket looking piece.

Cut the two corners across. Do not cut the stitching.

Flip this piece inside out.

Then sew around the outside with a 1/4 inch seam allowance leaving the opening still open. You can then set this piece aside.

Now take the (2) 14in X 3 in pieces and stack them together the same way you did above. (With the stabilizer down and the vinyl table cloth up, and then the iron on vinyl down with the solid color last) Sew them together along one of the long edges using a 1/2 inch seam allowance.

Turn them right sides out and sew down the same edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Take the 16in X 3in piece and lay the stabilizer side down with the vinyl table cloth up. Then on the two edges lay the pieces that you created above with the stitching lines facing together with the iron on vinyl side up. Then take the solid fabric and lay it down next with the iron on vinyl facing down and the fabric side up. Pin along the top edge. Make sure to pin the two strips to the outer edges.

Just in case I have confused you. If I lift up the edge of this this is what it will look like.

Sew along this pinned edge with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Then flip this piece up so the iron on vinyl side is facing out and the vinyl table cloth side is facing out the back. Sew a 1/4 inch seam allowance down the edge.

Lay this U-shape piece that you have just created onto a flat surface. Lay the previous pocket piece that you created on top of it. You want it to be centered between the two sides and then the same amount from the top. The two sides will be longer than the main piece. Place one pin on the bottom of the pocket piece and the edge of the sides to hold in place.

Take your package of Velcro and separate the sides. Lay the hard side of the Velcro, not the soft fuzzy side, down on the edge of the flap piece, on the vinyl table cloth side. Pin this in place. I set it down on the two edges first and then centered the remaining piece on the top. Take this to your sewing machine and sew a box around the edge of the Velcro.

Now lay the soft fuzzy side of the Velcro down along the edges of the U-shape where the flap lays when you fold it down on the pins like a hinge. I am not sure why I missed taking a picture of this step but sew around the edge of the Velcro just like you did above. Then lay the flap down with the Velcro attached. You can then remove the two pins.

Now grab your (2) yards of print fabric for the lining. Cut the following pieces: (2) 22in X 10in, (3) 8in X 6in, (3) 6in X 5in, (4) 13in X 13in, (6) 9in X 13in, and (2) 41in X 4in. Take the (2) 22in X 10in pieces. Iron along the top edge 1/4 inch down.

Then flip it down and iron 1/2 inch. Do this to both of the pieces.

Head over to your sewing machine. Cut two pieces of elastic to be 13 inches. Take one of them and put it under this fold you created. Sew the end of the elastic to the edge of the fabric. Then place your piece under your sewing machine. You are going to sew with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. For my machine, that is the edge of the presser foot. Start sewing and back stitch a little.

As you sew keep the elastic straight ahead. This is so much easier then threading it through the casing with a safety pin.

When you get to the end keep pulling the elastic with your finger. Don’t let go of it. Sew to the end and back stitch. Take the fabric out from under your machine as you regularly do. Keep the elastic in your hand.

Then stitch the edge of the elastic to the edge of the fabric. Do this two both pieces. Sew a basting stitch on the other long edge of the pieces. We will gather this edge in a later step.

Take these two pieces and take the (2) 14in X 14in pieces of solid color. Pin the sides of the lining fabric to the sides of the solid fabric starting at the bottom edge. Pin on at both sides.

Now is when you will gather the bottom. Gather it so it fits across the piece. Pin in place.

Take this to your sewing machine and sew along the outer edges. Do this with both pieces.

Then five inches in from either side sew a line down the lining piece. This will create three separate sections for water bottles.

Now take the U-shape piece. (Your flap will be attached. I removed mine so you can see what is under it) Pin one of the edges to one of the pocket pieces edge. You want the top of the pocket to be facing the same direction as the top of the flap on the U. Sew along the edge with 1/2 inch seam allowance. Then sew along the edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. This just adds extra stability for the bottom of the bag.

Fold the pocket piece over and sew along the edge of the seam on the pocket side of the piece with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Repeat this process with the other pocket flap on the the other side of the U piece.

It will look like this once it is completed and laying flat. Again, you will have the flap piece on yours.

Here is what yours will look like.

Now take the (3) 8in X 6in pieces. Iron the edges under all 1/4 inch.

Then 1/4 inch more.

Sew along the edges of this piece.

Fold each edge in 1/2 inch to create a pleat on each side. Ignore the pink color behind. I just set it down for the picture. This piece will now measure 4 inches across.

This is what it will look like from the back. Do this to all three pieces.

Take these three pieces and pin them to (1) 16in X 14in solid piece. You will want them 3 inches up from the bottom and evenly spaces across the width of the piece. 1 inch on each sides, and 1 inch inbetween each piece.

Sew down the long edges and across the bottom of the short edge. Leave the tops open and pinned.

Then take the (3) 6in X 5in pieces and fold them in half right sides together. Sew down the sides.

Turn them right sides out.

Tuck the unsewn edges in 1/4 inch.

Sew around all four edges. Do this to all three pieces.

Place them 1 inch above the top edge of the pocket. Make a similar pleat to match the pocket. Sew along the top edge. Do not sew on any other edge. Just the top edge of the piece. This will be a flap to cover the top of the pocket when it is filled.

Take this piece and sew it to the edge of the other three that you have attached already. Make sure the pockets face the same direction as the elastic pockets and the flap on the U. Once it is folded right sides sew 1/4 inch seam allowance on the piece with the elastic pocket, just as you did previously.

Sew the remaining two edges together. Then sew the same 1/4 inch seam allowance along the edge of the piece with the elastic pockets.

Take the remaining 16in X 14in piece that had the solid color attached. Pin this to the bottom edges of the bags with the vinyl table cloth side facing up and the vinyl table cloth sides facing out. I pinned two opposite edges first.

Then pinned the remaining two.

Sew with a 1/2 inch seam allowance along the edge of the bag. Cut of the two longer pieces.

Turn right sides out.

The inside of your bag will look like this:

Take the 16in X 14in piece you set aside clear at the beginning. Pin it to the edges with the vinyl table cloth side down and the stabilizer side up. Sew along the outside edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Now take your 1 yard of print fabric and cut the following pieces: (4) 14in X 7.5in, (2) 15in X 16in, 2 (15in X 14in), and (1) 40in X 7in. Take one 15in X 16in and one 15 in X 14in and pin the 15 inch sides together. Sew down the edge using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Do this to the two other pieces that are the same size. Then pin the two pieces together to create a box shape.

Slide this box shape over the bottom of the bag with right sides together. Pull it all the way down so the edges meet with the edge with the stabilizer piece.

Sew along the edge with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.

Take the (4) 14in X 7.5in pieces and iron one long edge under 1/4in.

Then fold it down 1/2 inch and iron.

Repeat with all 4 pieces and then add elastic and sew like you did with the previous elastic pockets above.

Baste the other side of the fabric edge.

Take these 4 pieces and take (2) 9in X 13in and (2) 13in X 13in lining pieces that you previously cut. Line these 4 pieces with the regular interfacing. Line up the sides of the lining and the elastic pocket pieces and pin. Then gather the bottom edge of the pocket so it fits the bottom edge of the lining piece. Sew around the outside edge the same way you did on the previous elastic pocket you created for the waterbottles. Then sew up the middle of each pocket to seperate it into two pockets. The two pockets on the side pieces will be more gathered than the two pieces on the front and back lining pieces which are slightly larger.

You will then take these 4 pieces and pin them in a rectangle with the pockets all facing up, (Ignore the piece I folded down, I didn’t end up making it like that), with right sides together.

Sew down the sides using a 1/2 inch seam allowance.

Take another 9in X 13in piece and sew onto the bottom of the rectangle using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Do this the same way we did to the bottom of the bag above.

Now take (2) 13in X 13in and (3) 9in X 13in pieces and iron on iron on vinyl to the right sides. Then sew these pieces into a rectangle like above. Line up the 13 inch pieces on the sides. Then sew on the remaining 9in X 13in piece onto the bottom of the rectangle to create a box like you did above, only this piece has no pockets inside of it. Slide the two of these boxes into the top of the bag.

Take the (2) 41in X 4in pieces and fold under 1/4 inch and iron, then 1/2 inch. Sew along the very edge.

String a ribbon through it. I used red so you could eaily see it. However I did switch it out later for white. You want your ribbon to be 10 inches long. You will do this to both pieces.

Tie the ribbon ends into a knot, and then tie them together so they do not come out.

Line up the edges of the fabric right sides together and sew along the very edge. Do this to both pieces. Only sew until you reach the casing and then stop. Do not sew any further than the casing or up onto the ribbon.

With the boxes inside the bags fold the top of the lining boxes down about 1/2 inch. Pin them down and then you can pull them out of the bag. Pin the edge of the draw string piece to the top of the folded edge. You want the right side of the drawstring bag up, but the wrong sides of the box part facing out.

Repeat this with both of the boxes. Then sew along the raw edge of the drawstring pieces with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Place one of the boxes back in the bag. Line up the seams to the outer piece with the seams to this box piece. Fold the top of the outer edge down 1 inch and pin it to the edge of the box. You want the box to sit down 1/2 inch further than the outer edge of the bag. Leave the inside side of the box unpinned to the outer piece of the bag.

Place in the second box. Pin it to the outside the same way you did to the other box. Place them so both of the drawsting openings are inward. You can see the red ribbon in the picture below. Pin the inside edges of the boxes together.

Head over to your sewing machine. Start in the center of the two boxes. Sew around the edge with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. You will be stitching with the machine on the outside of the bag and the inside. So slide your machine into the drawstring part of your bag. You do not want to be stitching through two layers or you will stitch your bag closed. The bobbin thread will be seen on the inner side of the drawstring piece. I hope I haven’t confused you. Sew all the way around to the other side of this box. Then you will have to stop and take the bag off of your machine and insert it into the other drawsting box. Then you can start going the other direction to finish sewing the outside of the bag to the two boxes.

The insides of the two boxes will still be just pinned together. You have not sewed them yet. Now you can sew them together by sliding the drawstring piece under your presser foot and the outer edge of the bag pressed to the sides of your machine so you do not sew them. Sew from one edge of the outer bag to the other along the folded edge of the drawstring piece.

The inside will look like this, You can see the sewn line just above the fold on the actual drawstring piece.

The inside boxes should now be complety sewn into the outer shell of the bag. They should also be sewn together in the inside edge.

You can now pull the draw strings tight and tie them together in the center.

Now take the (2) 41in X 4in piece and sew along the two long edges right sides together.

Flip it inside out. Sew along the other edges with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Fold one of the raw edges up 1/2 inch. Pin to the top sides of the bottom part of the bag on the sides with the elastic pockets in the center. Do this to the other end and the other side of the bag as well.

Hand sew around the edges. You can try to maneuver this through your machine if you like. I didn’t want to chance breaking a needle. It was really easy to just hand sew.

And you’re finished!

I would LOVE to see all of your swimming bags! Please stop by my blog at ShannonMakesStuff, become a follwer and link your perfect swim bag to my tutorial post!

And for those of you like me and my mother, who don’t haul around a change of clothes and extra supplies, and are the “mean” mom and make their kids come home wrapped up in their towels, I am creating a smaller version of this bag! So head on over and watch for it to be posted as well!

Thanks again to everyone for the fabulous time I’ve had in this competition. To the gals I’ve competed against, and to the voters, and to Missy! It’s been an honor.

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12 Apr

Handmade Minnie Party

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Hot Dog! We had a party and you’re all invited!

We celebrated with Minnie, but all these ideas could easily be changed to fit any theme. I fell in love with the red polka dots and minnie ears and used them on everything.

Including the cake!

We have ears, say cheers!

These party hats aren’t just fun to make, they’re also easy and inexpensive.

A birthday outfit is a small touch that can make anyone feel extra special. Kate cried when it was pried off to go in the wash.

What party is complete without a pinata? All I needed was a Huggies box, a
roll of crepe paper, tape and glue. No messy paper-mache or waiting
days for it to dry.

Mouse hands were made for the kids to wear while hitting the pinata. Such Joy! Of course we needed goodie bags for all the loot. It was a great party, thanks for coming!

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12 Apr

Perfect Swim Bag

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

*Project by Shannon @ Shannon Makes Stuff*

First off I would like to send a big thank you to those followers who voted me on to the finals! It means allot to me! And I also couldn’t be competing against a more creative gal!!! It’s been a fun, fast, and tough ten weeks!

For my final shebang I decided to create the perfect bag to take with your family swimming! Whether you head to the local pool or out to the beach, you will have enough room for everything! With summer in full swing around my parts of the country and with it around the corner for the rest I thought it would be perfect to pull out bright summer colors and prints.

So here you have the PERFECT SWIMMING and recreational bag!

The top of the bag has two separate sides. They both close and open with draw string tops.

One side is fully lined with waterproof material so once you are done swimming you can toss in your wet clothes, and the rest of your bag will stay nice and dry!

The other side is a dry side. It is filled with pockets that you can slide in your wallet, keys, makeup, or diapers! You name it! It’s perfect for your hair supplies and your dry change of clothes for after you swim!

Now onto the bottom. The entire bottom is waterproof, so you won’t need to worry where you set your bag! Two of the sides around the bottom have pockets to slide in water bottles! You can never have enough water at the pool! They are also perfect for slipping in sun screen or diving toys, or flip-flops!

On one of the other sides there are three pockets that have flaps on the top. They are perfect for goggles, sun glasses, or spray on tanner!

The final side around the bottom has a large flap that opens completely and closes with Velcro, making it easy for children to get in and out of.

When you open the flap you will find another waterproof compartment large enough to fit 6, yes 6, large beach towels, folded nice and neat!

So grab all your swim gear, change of clothes, and load up your bag. Throw it over your shoulder and head out for a fun filled day!

When your ready to go home, the top of your bag won’t be as filled because your change of clothes will be on, so simply push down the draw string compartments, throw your smaller bag over your shoulder, and head home!

This bag is also perfect for a small camping trip, or a couple of days in a row overnighter! Slide your sleeping blanket and pillow into the bottom and fill up the dry side with your clothes! Once you wear your clothes, simply put them in the waterproff side, to keep your dirty clothes seperated! All the pockets in the insides can be used for your bathroom supplies! So where ever you are headed this summer, grab the PERFECT BAG and GO!

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12 Apr

Session 2 Finale – Wild Card

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Craft #1 – Perfect Swimming Bag by Shannon

So here you have the PERFECT SWIMMING and recreational bag!

The top of the bag has two separate sides. They both close and open with draw string tops.

One side is fully lined with waterproof material so once you are done swimming you can toss in your wet clothes, and the rest of your bag will stay nice and dry!

On one of the other sides there are three pockets that have flaps on the top. They are perfect for goggles, sun glasses, or spray on tanner!

The final side around the bottom has a large flap that opens completely and closes with Velcro, making it easy for children to get in and out of.

When you open the flap you will find another waterproof compartment large enough to fit 6, yes 6, large beach towels, folded nice and neat!

So grab all your swim gear, change of clothes, and load up your bag. Throw it over your shoulder and head out for a fun filled day!

Craft #2 – Handmade Minnie Party by Kalleen

Hot Dog! We had a party and you’re all invited!

We celebrated with Minnie, but all these ideas could easily be changed to fit any theme. I fell in love with the red polka dots and minnie ears and used them on everything.

Including the cake!

We have ears, say cheers!

These party hats aren’t just fun to make, they’re also easy and inexpensive.

A birthday outfit is a small touch that can make anyone feel extra special. Kate cried when it was pried off to go in the wash.

What party is complete without a pinata? All I needed was a Huggies box, a
roll of crepe paper, tape and glue. No messy paper-mache or waiting
days for it to dry.

Mouse hands were made for the kids to wear while hitting the pinata. Such Joy! Of course we needed goodie bags for all the loot. It was a great party, thanks for coming!

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05 Apr

Season 3 Auditions

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Craft #1 – Mod Flower Door Curtain – Charlene @ eWillow

In order to photograph this “door curtain” I actually had to close the door, but try to imagine it with the door open, leading into a cute girl’s bedroom or playroom. There are lots of colorful paper flowers, hearts, and ladybugs hanging from the top of the door frame to the floor (well, almost to the floor.)

I covered a 1/4″ wooden dowel with decorative paper, cut the dowel to fit the door frame, and added rubber stoppers to each end to hold the dowel in the frame. The rubber stoppers give the dowel just the right amount of tension for it to stay in place. You could also use a tension curtain rod, but I liked the idea of covering the dowel in paper to match the color motif of the flowers.

I tied the decorative pieces to the main strings with colorful ribbon. They dangle and dazzle and give this door curtain just the right pizzaz to finish off and add a little bit of privacy to a girl’s special place.

Craft #2 – Snuggaroo – Marjorie @ Living With Three Moonbabies

A pillow that you can snuggle with, play with, and best of all, it has a pouch on the back to put all your favorite things in. Oh, and a little handle on top to help you carry it around!
It was made using only a thrifted fleece jacket, felt scraps and thread.
The SnuggaRoo is a great way to take something old and make it new!

These would be great to take on road trips, sleepovers or even just to snuggle with at nap time.

Everyone needs a SnuggaRoo!

Craft #3 – DS Carrying/Storage Case – Shilo @ “Toad”ly Crafts

“Mom where’s my charger?”
“I know that’s my stylus, not his!”
“I can’t find my Pokemon game!”

Do you hear this to often! I know I do. I knew something had to be done. But at $40+ for a nice carrying case at the store, affording one was going to be hard never mind one for each of the kids (and my hubby!).

Problem solved!

No more lost chargers, no more whinny road trips and no more arguing on
what belongs to who!

Inside I used felt to create custom sized storage pockets for the various components, games and manuals.

Now its just a matter of grabbing and go….gaming on the go….I may never see my kiddos…or hubby again!

Craft #4 – Sophisticated Scrap Bracelet – Bobbie @ I am Only One Woman

I love to sew, but with sewing comes a lot of scraps. I just can’t seem to throw away those small pieces of fabric and elastic. I made this bracelet with the rest of the waistband elastic from a skirt that I was making.

I just love how sophisticated and pretty it is. Don’t you think?

I made these fun bracelets out of stretch elastic, satin ribbon, beads, and buttons.

Craft #5 – Memo Board – Lynette @ Get Your Craft On

We’re ready to go out on a hot date, but I need to quick fill in the babysitter on all the important info and numbers. I quick scribble something down on whatever paper is laying around.

No need to do that anymore! Now, with this dry erase Babysitter Board, you can quick fill in all the important info you need your babysitter to know. Put it out on the kitchen island where they can see it if they ever need it, and you’re good to go!

Don’t worry, if you don’t want to use it as a babysitter board, just use it as a super funky stylin’ dry erase board. Hang it on the wall, or just write a note for your hubby and leave it on the table.

It can be a babysitter board, a calendar, a grocery list, whatever you need it for! No matter what, it’s super cute and looks better than traditional dry erase boards!

Craft #6 – Matchbox Organizer – Chris @ Pickup Some Creativity

Is your home overflowing with matchbox cars? After Christmas mine was! So, I wanted to make an organizer that would keep the cars accessible, and add some style to the boys’ room. The car applique was inspired by the pocket fabric. I used freezer paper stencils for the wording, and to enhance to car applique. I made piping and sewed it around the edge to set off the silhouette of the hanger. There are seven pockets per row, so this particular length holds 42 cars. The back has an envelope closure, so that I can remove the hanger if I need to wash the garage. Best part, it hangs in the closet, or on a hook, and can be put away when not in use.

The Hanging Car Garage

Detail of the pockets and lettering

Detail of the car applique and freezer paper stencils.

Craft #7 – King of New York Suit – Jess @ Running With Scissors

“I’m the King of New York!”

Spring brings out dressy little outfits for girls in anticipation for Easter, but boys could use a new spring outfit too! This toddler suit was inspired by the turn of the century newsboys who sold newspapers in large cities–or I’m sure you’ve seen Christian Bale singing and dancing as Jack in the 1996 musical, Newsies.

I used 1 yard of the charcoal pinstripe fabric to make the trousers, vest, and hat. The white shirt was purchased. I used a pair of pants as the pattern for the trousers, and a boy’s t-shirt as the pattern for the vest. The trousers have pockets and a faux zipper/ tab. To make it easier, these pants are elastic waist in the back to slip on and off so you don’t have to deal with snaps and zippers on wiggly little guys.

My favorite feature are the suspenders! So easy to make, they cost less than $3.00, and you don’t even sew buttonholes! You could make these snazzy suspenders to go with any pair of pants you already have. Of the 4 elements in this project, the suspenders are the most basic, but the best part in my opinion. If my husband would wear them, I’d make him a big pair. These suspenders don’t even make it a hassle when you need to get the pants off– just leave the suspenders attached and pull them down to the sides.

Snappy little suit for Easter, church or other dressy springtime occasions.

Craft #8 – Cling Anywhere Clings – Kelly @ Handmade by Kelly

You know those cute window clings that you can buy, usually around the holidays. The only problem with those is that they will only cling to windows and you are also very limited on your options.

So what if you can make a cling to be any design you want and put them wherever you want.

Introducing the Cling Anywhere Clings. Paint any design you want using fabric paint. They really do stick to just about anything and are completely removable.

You can make a butterfly to stick to your child’s wall and it doesn’t damage anything.

Using glow-in-the-dark paint you can make spooky eyes that glow. These would look great on your front door at Halloween.

You can even put your monogram on your car (or wherever you want really) in what ever color scheme you want.

I have made snowflakes in the winter and I even made a logo of my DH favorite sports team to put on the side of his car (which stayed on his car for over a year until we sold it and the cling came off with no problem).

Craft #9 -Gingham Placemats – Cheryl @ A Pretty Cool Life

I just love the cheerfulness of gingham.

Something about the promise of warmer weather makes me want to make everything in our home bright and colorful, and these placemats are just what I need to start my spring and summer days off right.

Craft #10 – Spring Garden Necklace – Katie @ Blue Eyed Freckle

Are you like me with a whole bunch of plain shirts in your closet? Do you need something to spice them up without having to actually sew something directly on each of them? That is what the “Spring Garden” necklace is for!

I made it out of fabrics and felts so that it lays on your t-shirt in a way that makes it look like it is part of the shirt.

Of course it could be made out of more subdued hues, but I thought it would be fun and spring-y to use a combination of nautical and floral colors and patterns. The possibilities are endless!

Craft #11 – Dessert Plates – Ann @ DecoMOD Studio

. LOVE . forever . LOVE YOU . it’s true .
4 personalized dessert dishes
Make these for someone special . to treasure . forever
I don’t know if it’s happened at your house, but my fridge is starting to fill up with bridal shower invites. Yes ladies, wedding season is on the horizon here is a fun and personalized gift to give. Maybe you could monogram a few for your little sister’s wedding or baby shower! These simple, white plates were purchased for much less than a dollar a piece. So with a million gift giving events coming up, you won’t break the bank.

The process is simple. You’ll need very few supplies and the best part….these cute designs are etched in to the plate a dyed with porcelain paint so they are dishwasher safe!!

Wrap them up in a cute little box for a fabulous gift or even an impressive shower favor!!

This craft is simple enough and kids can help.
We will be making these for our Grandmothers for Mother’s Day.
Personalize these with Mom’s favorite phrase or favorite flower!

Not sure you have a good idea for a design? Don’t worry, I’ve got printable patterns and I can hold your hand every step of the way (there are only 3 steps, so it won’t be too much hand holding!)

I love the dyed look!

Craft #12 – Diaper Clutch – Becky @ Beckymae’s Journey

Imagine having to carry that heavy diaper bag every where you go, now all you need is this simple clutch. Designed for every mom in a hurry. Will fit in most large purses. It’s a diaper holder, changing pad, mini pillow (your extra diapers are nice place to rest that beautiful baby’s head on), easy velcro close, washable, fun vintage retro look, protection from germs, waterproof, long enough for a toddler all in one diaper holder. It can hold up to 4 diapers and a travel size wipes.

Craft #13 – Play Kitchen – Deidre @ A Craft A Day

As I brainstormed ideas for my daughters birthday present this year, I knew a play kitchen would be a big hit. However, I just wasn’t willing to pay so much money for a hunk of plastic. So, after some searching and brainstorming, I decided to jump in on the re-fashioning trend and turn our old entertainment center into a new play kitchen. With assistance from my husband (the thought of using power tools without him leaves me uneasy), we cranked out this project the last three days… just in time for my daughters birthday today. With a jigsaw, drill, electric screw driver, some paint and a few accessories, her new favorite toy was born! It is a hit, even with my house full of boys! There are still some adjustments we want to make, like a shelf above the pot rack, a different handle for the oven (the other was not on for the pictures), longer curtains above the sink, and a picture decoupaged behind the curtain. I don’t think this project will ever be finished as it may just keep evolving.

Craft #14 – Birthday Crown – Amber @ The Neatery

A friend’s daughter is having her second birthday soon, so a crown was in order. My crafting preferences tend to involve sewing, embroidery, crocheting or paper. This shows two of those…sewing and embroidery. A little felt, a scrap of fabric & elastic, and thread. Let the celebrations begin.

Craft #15 – Scrappy Happy Table Runner – Amy @ Vintage Fern

I don’t know about you, but springtime makes me think of tea parties. Tea Parties make me think of decorations and a fun scrappy table runner is just the thing to help decorate your party or just to add some happy to your everyday!

I used lots of yummy vintage and new fabrics, along with pom pom trim, doilies, part of a vintage handkerchief, and embroidery thread.

I added lots of fun details! Now, I should go plan the rest of my party……..

Craft #16 -Birthday Throne – Sara @ Creative Jewish Mom

What can you do with some pom-poms, felt yardage, and sequin trim, that can create happy memories for your family for years to come? Wouldn’t you like to have some ready-made decorations on hand, to honor birthdays or other important milestones? Have you ever had a guest who suddenly announces that today is her birthday? Wouldn’t it be great to whip out some decorations at a moment’s notice? So here’s the answer to all of these questions: a simple felt slip cover that can turn a regular arm chair into a festive birthday throne!

No tricky calculations necessary, just make a simple pattern by tracing the shape of the back of the chair, and then cut out two identical pieces, which are joined at the top only. You can make some ties on the sides if necessary, and the seat piece needn’t be more than a simple square that you can also attach with ties or tuck in, depending on the type of chair you’ll be using. As for the pom-poms, I whipped these up with my new pom-pom maker that works like a dream!

So hang a fabric backdrop (even over a door, like I did here!), and some felt garlands or balloons, get out your slip cover, and let the party begin!

And by the way, in keeping with the theme, a simple pom-pom as a present topper is just as cute as can be! Wouldn’t you like to see more cute crafting projects like this one! Vote for me so I can show you what I’ve got up my sleeve for the next round!

Craft #17 – Laptop Messenger Bag – Holly @ Bijou Lovely

Who doesn’t love spring? There’s just something about the warmer weather, green grass, and the sun peaking out that makes us all happy and ready for a new start. What better way to celebrate spring than with a new bag? This laptop messenger bag is fresh, casual, and perfect for the season.

Made of linen with a layer of felt in the lining to protect your precious cargo. Complete with lots of little pockets to store your phone, business cards, pens and pencils.

Now if only the weather would cooperate so we could get rid of the jackets, we’d be all set for spring!

Craft #18 – Travel First-Aid Kit – Fawnda @ Fireflies and Jellybeans

Maybe it is the Girl Scout in me (always be prepared!), or perhaps it is because I have a toddler, or it is possibly because I am a bit clumsy. Whatever the reason, I chose to make a travel first aid kit – something that will fit in my purse, and also be stylish at the same time (at least I can look good after I fall!).
I made a pocket for bandages and cleansing wipes, elastic straps to hold the antiseptic and Children’s Tylenol, and a zipper pocket for suckers (nothing heals a boo-boo faster than a sucker!).

Everything is all packed up in it’s place.

Here it is all set to go into my purse

… I wonder how long it will be, before I have to use it…

Craft #19 – Tote Bag – Rachel @ Southern KnitWit

This personalized tote bag would be the perfect gift for a mom or grandma! These silhouettes are easy to cut and give a sophisticated look. I bought this roomy tote bag from Hobby Lobby with a coupon, so this project is cheap too! The silhouettes are easy to attach by ironing on. Some names underneath the silhouettes would be cute as well!!! This would be so easy to customize for anyone on your gift list.

Craft #20 -Recycled Magnet Board – Eva @ Handmade Beginnings

What better way to display art work by you and yours? Not to mention, display it on a magnetic board made from items otherwise recycled! The best part is it’s totally customizable to suit your needs and to match your room decor. I made the A.R.T. letter magnetic boards for my child’s playroom. And below I painted and decoupaged a little magnetic flower board to hang above my sewing machine… a place to put little bits of inspiration.

Have you guessed yet what I used to make these boards?

None other than metal lids from concentrate juice cans!

I used to get made fun of for collecting these things, but I knew they’d come in handy someday!

Craft #21 – Traveling Sketchbook Case – Korinne @ Crafterella

It is amazing to me how much some “wasted” time adds up through the day, waiting to pick up kids, waiting for appointments, etc. I have decided to make sure that I have crafty things available to do when these moments of time pop up and so I made this traveling sketchbook case.

It has everything I need to work on new ideas, take note, and gather random bits of information and it’s made from eco-friendly fused plastic.

The outside is made from scraps of fused plastic from other projects that have been zigzagged together to make a large piece of fabric. Inside it is lined with soft fleece. Two custom made shrinky plastic clasps on elastic keep the case closed and allow for added thickness.

There is a zippered pocket for holding scissors, glue sticks, and other tools, slots for pen and pencils, a ruler pocket, a larger flat pocket for papers and ephemera, and of course a pocket for my sketchbook. This idea can be customized to work for many different crafts on the go, all you need to do is figure out what type of storage you’ll need.

No more wasted time for me, I’ll be sketching away my waiting time!

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28 Mar

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Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Here are the 3 lucky Forever You winners!!

The winner of 50% off any item in the shop is:

The winner of 25% off is:

and The winner of 15% off is:

Congrats you guys!! If I don’t have your contact email, please email me so we can get you your prize!

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Forever You is doing another giveaway! This time 3 lucky people will win. Yulia is giving away 50% off one item, 25% off one item and 15% off one item to her shop!

She has so many cute things in her shop and it’s changing all the time. She even has an organic line and a “save our planet” section of her shop where she donates 25% of the sales to a non-profit. So you could get something cute and help out the world!

She carries everything from baby booties to custom car seat covers.

You know the drill. Go look at her shop then come back and let us know what it is (remember your contact info please)! The giveaway will be open until Friday night.

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27 Mar

Charity @ Cannwin

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

I am a lover of the written word and started blogging as an excuse to write everyday, along the way I discovered crafting tutorials and now my house is an explosion of crafts.

I learned how to really sew from my mother-in-law and made my first quilt under her tutelage, since then I’ve broken every rule she told me, at least once.

I live in a house too big for my tastes with my four children and my husband. Someday I dream of downsizing to something we can barely fit in that will burst at every seam with laughter and joy.

My favorite color is green, but I’m not sure I own any green clothes. My favorite smell is vanilla, but I don’t wear vanilla perfume. My least favorite bug is the cockroach, yet I keep moving back to places where they thrive. In short–I am a woman of contradiction.

You can learn more about me and my opinions at The Great and Random Ramblings of Cannwin.

Charity’s Crafts:

*You can learn more about Charity in her interview*

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27 Mar

Tone @ Bless by Tone

Posted under SYTYC
By Missy

Hi, my name is Tone (some people pronounce it like tuna or tony). I am from Norway. I am a single mother to the most beautiful twin girls. They are six years old and a lot of the crafting I’m doing, is with them on my mind. I am a school director/teacher. I run a high school for adults. In my spare time I try to write my blog and be crafty. I love sewing, knitting, crocheting and wood work. I am utterly excited to be on this season of SYTYC and I hope you find me crafty. Stop by my blog any time.