make along

Pinterst

2011-02-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

Finally, I have found an awesome way to keep track of all of my bookmarks besides just the Bookmarks Tab. Pinterest. I swear I could spend hours every day on the site. It is fantastic, beautiful, and inspirational.

You can follow my boards by going here.

Teacher Valentines

2011-02-07T22:48:00.000-08:00

I've never really considered making separate Valentine's for the teacher, but I'm thinking it might happen this year. Especially since oranges are only 18 cents/lb. this week at the grocery store!!

Printable and idea from Twig and Thistle here.

Class Valentine's

2011-02-07T22:44:00.000-08:00

Now to get some bouncy balls from the dollar store this week...
Printable and idea from Supermom Moments

School House Kitchen Chairs

2011-02-01T21:25:00.000-08:00

I love the school house chairs-maybe I should start collecting them now.

Image from here.

Book Corner

2011-02-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Love this. Especially the hanging books. Fantastic.

Image from Cookie Magazine (RIP)

Giant Kitchen/Dining Table

2011-02-01T21:10:00.000-08:00

Someday we are going to have a house big enough that I can build this table. Okay, so Zak can build the table. I've been coveting it for a couple of years now. Perfection. Design Mom gives details for building your own here.

Drawer Hangers

2011-02-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

When I can finally put a hole in the wall larger than a push pin, I want to make this wall hanger. You can use real drawer fronts, or just scrap wood designed to look like drawers.

Full tutorial from Design Sponge here.

IKEA Dresser Makeover

2011-02-01T20:55:00.000-08:00

Top: Before
Bottom: After

Awesome improvement with just a little wrapping paper!! You can even switch out the wrapping paper to coincide with approaching holidays. I think that contact paper or wallpaper would work great as well! (Dresser from IKEA)

No tutorial, but some hints and tips at Living La Vida Rita here.

Glider Makeover

2011-02-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

I don't love the fabrics on the "after" chair-but the concept is fantastic. You can pick up an ugly glider from Craigslist for about $25 and with a little patience, have a chair that looks brand new.

Tutorial and tips from Creative Little Daisy here.

More Alphabet Wall Art

2011-01-31T18:51:00.000-08:00

My friend Annie passed this link along to me today-it's an upcycle, uses spray paint, fabric scraps, and the alphabet. If the author would have gotten the stencil at a thrift shop, this would be the ultimate project. But, it's close enough...

Find the tutorial on Design Mom here.

DIY Party Supplies

2011-01-26T17:44:00.000-08:00

While I was browsing through other posts on Homemade by Jill, I stumbled across this awesome tutorial for making your own printables (cupcake toppers, invitations, paper banners, etc) on Picnik. I've used Picnik a number of times, but had no idea graphics were available. This could potentially save you a ton of money, especially if you plan parties often!!
See the full tutorial from Homemade by Jill here.

A is for...

2011-01-26T17:35:00.000-08:00

Can you tell from all of these alphabet posts that I was a teacher in my former life?

I really love these flashcards from Handmade by Jill. They would even look good printed on card stock and hung on the wall.Download them here.

Photo Wall

2011-01-25T20:19:00.000-08:00

My main decorating technique is: throw a bunch of photos on the wall. So of course, I'm loving this photo mosaic by Paislee Press.Image and instructions (including template) for making your own here.

Dreaming of Disney

2011-01-25T19:52:00.001-08:00

Can you tell I'm going through all of my old bookmarks tonight?

I can't believe I haven't printed these posters out already and framed them. That's the problem with having so.many.bookmarks.
There are two other Disney World themed posters as well. You can see and download all of them from Greg Maletic here.

If you are decorating a nursery...

2011-01-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

these prints would be perfect. They come in eight different colors.

And of course you can download for free--from Sprik Space.

Oddly Familiar

2011-01-25T19:09:00.000-08:00

My house in Phoenix:

The idea upgraded: I love the floor to ceiling shelves. And speaking of the ceiling...These look like the same shelves we have-from IKEA. Unfortunately, they don't make them anymore.

Image from Elizabeth Sullivan Design via House of Turquoise.

ABC Print

2011-01-25T17:15:00.000-08:00

I love this (FREE!) print-would look great in a playroom or kids' room!! Colorful and educational.

You can download it from Live and Enliven here.

Bunting Lantern

2011-01-24T19:00:00.000-08:00

I have a soft spot in my heart for anything bunting related. And this IKEA lantern hack is no different. A great way to use up scraps of fabric.

Get instructions from You Had Me at Bonjour.

Vintage Sheet Quilt

2011-01-24T18:49:00.000-08:00

I need this quilt. Doesn't it remind you of spring???From Michelle DuPuis Picasa Web Album

I'm a sucker for you.

2011-01-24T18:39:00.000-08:00

I love this Valentine.
Quick instructions from 24-7-365 here

A book case. Literally.

2011-01-24T16:23:00.000-08:00

If only I could figure out how to make one of these.

Image from here.

Felt Dahlias

2011-01-24T16:09:00.000-08:00

I'm not a corsage/brooch girl myself, but these would be adorable on a little girl's headband.

Find the tutorial from Not Martha guest posting at Holidash here. And some more tips here.

I'm never buying a bed frame again

2011-01-24T16:07:00.001-08:00

Because this is awesome.

Made with two wooden pallets.From Design Sponge.

Eco Travel Lid

2011-01-24T13:47:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up, my mom used (new) plastic shower caps in lieu of Saran Wrap. It was a cheaper option and, although they weren't that good looking, could be used over and over again. I've never gone the shower cap route myself, but I really love this tutorial by Allyson Hill for Evo Travel Lids. Basically, it is the same concept, only better looking. I think I might make myself a few.

See the full tutorial here.

Sewing Space

2011-01-24T11:13:00.000-08:00

I found the side of a crib in the as-is section of IKEA for about $3 after falling in love with this space. Someday I'll have a room and a reason to paint and hang it. I love the clipboard in leui of an inspiration wall. I have a thing for hanging clipboards.

Image from Smile and Wave.

Easy as...cobbler

2011-01-23T19:52:00.001-08:00

Bakerella refers to this dessert as Peach Crumb Cake, but it is always the way we've made Peach Cobbler. It is so easy and so delicious-just peaches, a cake mix, butter, and brown sugar. YUM!. Make sure you have some ice cream available!!

See the recipe from Bakerella here.

Letter Cups

2011-01-23T18:32:00.000-08:00

The Violet Hours made knock off alphabet cups (original product from Iam Desig n) that would be adorable for the next birthday part you host! She provides instructions AND a PDF for personal use here.

Cardboard box town

2011-01-23T16:26:00.000-08:00

KikiCreates turns a plain cardboard box into something a kid will play with for hours.

Wait, they already play with cardboard boxes for hours. In fact, as I write this, my daughter is playing with a box that she's been hauling around all week saying, "Okay toys, I'm giving you to Andy." Maybe we should lay off the Toy Story 3.

The difference between a regular cardboard box and this transformed one is that it LOOKS like something kids should play with.And it's totally awesome.

No tutorial, but some more details from Kiki Creates here.

Project 31 Complete

2011-01-22T16:38:00.000-08:00

I posted a complete list of all the random acts of kindness from my birthday project-Project 31- today. If you are interested, you can read them here.

And if did not receive the free pattern you requested from the other day, please let me know!! makealong (AT) gmail (DOT) com.

Foam Mat Makeover

2011-01-20T14:52:00.000-08:00

Sarah.Wandering turned a foam rug from drab to de-lovely with paint and a steady hand. I can always use a good rug in my life-now to figure out how do this with little to no artistic talent.
Just to give you a little insight into this amazing transformation-these started out as primary colored mats!!

See the tutorial from Sarah.Wandering here.

A little bookish

2011-01-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

No instructions or tutorial, but these look pretty simple to make (or you can always buy one from Etsy shop Wonderland Furniture here). I desperately need one for my nightstand.

Book Bunting

2011-01-20T14:42:00.000-08:00

Every kid should have one of these in his room.I don't normally promote the destruction of children's books, but if you are making something this fabulous, I think I could make an exception. Time to peruse the local thrift shop to find the perfect book.

You probably don't need them (such an easy project!), but Kojo Designs was kind enough to provide instructions here.

Sailor Knot Bracelet

2011-01-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

I'm not a jewelry person. Anyone who knows me can tell you that. In fact, I can't even remember the last time I wore my wedding ring. Don't worry-no one hits on me. I'm normally surrounded by screaming children which serves as one (there are, frankly, many) great deterrent to would be suitors.

That said, I kind of fell in love with this sailor knot bracelet. Bracelet?!? I know-maybe I should start looking married before I delve into more complicated accessories.

Nevertheless, here's the tutorial from Etsy's Storque.

And if you crochet (a talent I do not possess), this one is also awesome.

Alphabet Wall Art

2011-01-19T15:55:00.000-08:00

Not meaning to have an alphabet theme today, but it is what it is. I have a soft spot in my heart for educational wall art and this easy and inexpensive idea definitely fits the bill. I would look for canvases that you could cover at garage sales or thrift shops to make the letter art as cheap as possible.

See idea from Ohdeedoh (no formal tutorial-just some hints and tips) here.

Personalized ABC Card

2011-01-19T15:23:00.000-08:00

I love this idea for a birthday or other special occasion. Use the PDF included in the post to print out a set of alphabet cards and write one thing on each card that you love or appreciate about the person that correlates with the letter. This would make a great Valentine's gift for that special someone!! See instructions and get PDF from Design Sponge here.

Felt Faces

2011-01-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

One day I AM going to get around to making these felt faces. Especially since I can see them working perfectly as quiet activities during church. And of course, the fact that they are mainly made of felt scraps is also quite appealing. Get a group of ladies together to make these and split the (very minimal) cost.

See the instructions from Momtastic here.

DIY Lacing Beads

2011-01-18T20:51:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of making your own lacing beads-these would make a fantastic (and inexpensive) baby shower or 1st birthday gift!

Get the instructions from Say YES! to Hoboken here.

For the Pot-Heads

2011-01-18T20:33:00.000-08:00

I just made this...and you can too. Or one that says "Keep Calm and Eat a Cupcake.
Or the always motivational "Act Hysterical and Give Up"

Go to Calm-O-Matic here.

P.S. I actually made this print before Christmas and used it on a Shutterfly recipe book that I gave to my sister. You could put it on cards, books, posters, calendars....there are so many possibilities!

Project 31-UAOK #9-31 Free PatternsCLOSED

2011-01-17T19:39:00.000-08:00

Update: The 31 patterns have been given away!! Thanks so much for helping me with Project 31!!

In honor of my birthday and Project 31, I'm giving away patterns to 31 lucky people. There are four patterns to choose from:

Reversible Pouch Sling-pattern works for all sizes (make great gifts!)
Flip Flop Skirt-girl sizes 12 months-5T
Cinch Skirt-girl sizes 6 months-8 years
The Favorite Skirt-a women's skirt pattern, sizes XS-XL (all sizes are included in pattern)

You can see them here. All four of them are full of pictures and step by step instructions, so even if you haven't sewn much (or ever), these are great to start with.

To get your free pattern, just leave me a comment with your email address and choice of pattern. I'll be giving away patterns to the first 31 people who comment.

Have a happy day!

Ruffled Rainbow Streamers

2011-01-17T19:16:00.000-08:00

Use the cheap paper streamers from the dollar store to make these ruffled banners. I really want to do this for the next party I host. They are so colorful and pretty. On second thought, maybe I'll make some and hang them up all year long.See the instructions from My Paper Crane here.

Adjustable Elastic Waist

2011-01-17T18:53:00.000-08:00

My kids are so, so skinny. And I'm normally able to find adjustable waist pants at the thrift shop (where I buy all their clothes-why spend more than $1 when the kid is just going to get paint/pizza sauce/grass stains all over?) but sometimes I end up with a pair that isn't adjustable. Which means the kids go around sagging their pants. Not a great look for a teenage boy or a toddler. Thank goodness for Julie-K and her tutorial. She shares how to add an adjustable elastic waist yourself!See the tutorial here.

Chair Backs into Picture Frames

2011-01-17T18:44:00.000-08:00

This would have never occurred to me, but I am loving this idea. Take some old chairs, remove the wicker, and turn them into frames. Now to just find some cheap chairs at Goodwill or a garage sale.
All Things Thrifty shares the tutorial here.

Project 31

2011-01-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Friday is my birthday. I won't tell you how old I'm going to be, but I'm sure you can guess by the title. This year I'm going to do something a little different--as in it's not going to be all about me. We have been so blessed by others the past couple of years and I want to pay it forward. So, I commit to do 31 acts of unexpected kindness during this week-Project 31. As Gandhi said, The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

The idea isn't new by any means, some people I've read about have done all of the service in one day, some have spread it out over a month, but the week time line works out best for our circumstances. I'm also going to be doing some of the random acts through this blog, my family blog, and the Screamin' Deals Facebook page, just to mix it up a little and keep people on their toes. Next Saturday, after finishing 31, I'll be posting a list for record's sake.

I'm so excited-I have a feeling this is going to be the best birthday week ever.

Peanut Butter Brownies

2011-01-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

I'm only baking treats once a week (dang New Year's resolutions). As a result, I've had to get really choosy about desserts. I was having a craving for peanut butter and Zak was wanting chocolate, so after an extensive internet search I decided to try the Peanut Butter Brownies (from Smitten Kitchen).They were so very good. I changed the recipe up a bit and it was perfectly suited to our cravings.

Peanut Butter Brownies

For brownies
2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 large eggs plus 1 large yolk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (9 ounces)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees with rack in middle. Butter a 13- by 9- by 2-inch baking pan.

Beat together butter and sugar with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until mixture is light and fluffy, then add peanut butter and beat until incorporated. Beat in whole eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla. Reduce mixer sped to low, then mix in flour until just combined.

Mix in chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups) then spread batter in baking pan, smoothing top. (It will be thick, almost like cookie batter.)

Bake until brownies are deep golden, puffed on top and a wooden pick inserted in center come out with some crumbs adhering, 40 to 45 minutes.

The original recipe uses a ganache topping, but I changed it up. I really liked the way it turned out.

Topping
2/3 peanut butter
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

Melt together and spread over the baked brownies. Cool and serve.

Photo courtesy of Smitten Kitchen

The Last Minute Frock

2011-01-14T14:41:00.000-08:00

There are so many fantastic (free!) little girl dress patterns out there. And I have bookmarked all of them. Not gotten around to making many, but they are all filed away for future use.

This one is from Grosgrain (have you seen this blog-Kathleen is an amazing seamstress!)-The Last Minute Frock. I love it. Especially the color combination.Get the full pattern (scroll through the post and you will see the link to download) here.

Play Tent from Sheets

2011-01-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

Oh, the possibilities! I've seen a lot of little tent tutorials, but not one has used something upcycled to make one-and we all know I love a good upcycle project. Living with Punks uses 4 sheets to create the tent. And a hula hoop. You could even make this out of vintage sheets for a completely different (and totally awesome) look. Living with Punks gives you all the instructions here.

Burlap Word Art

2011-01-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Burlap is all the rage right now. Though, I'm not exactly sure why... (Disclaimer: not that there is anything wrong with burlap, but it's been around FOREVER so why is it cool now?)Tattered and Inked combined burlap with the ever trendy alphabet to make an adorable piece of wall art perfect for a kids' room. Doesn't every kid love to see his or her name on the wall??

This is a super cheap and easy project (maybe that's why burlap is so popular? We are all suffering from the bad economy but still want to be crafty?). See all of the instructions from Tattered and Ink here.

Thinking Halloween?

2011-01-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

I realize that it is way too early to start thinking Halloween costumes, but....I'm already thinking Halloween costumes. I saw this one a few months ago and immediately knew, I'm making this for Halloween 2011. Call me a freak, but my daughter is going to be adorable. There's not an entire tutorial for the costume, but Early Bird Crafting tells you where to find the instructions for each piece and the changes that she made. You can see her post about it here.

Book Pockets

2011-01-13T16:35:00.000-08:00

Awhile I posted a similar idea for storing books near a child's bed (see it here), but this one attaches right to the bed-perfect for a top bunk or an IKEA loft bed (like my son's!). Great for storing books and other little treasures your child insists on having in bed.

There's not a full tutorial for this project, but Betz White gives some tips for making your own here.

The BEST Chicken Enchiladas

2011-01-13T15:42:00.001-08:00

For a long time I made the same old chicken enchilada recipe. Don't get me wrong, it was good, but a few weeks ago I wanted to change it up a little so I went searching for something different. In my search for greatness, I came across Angela's Awesome Enchiladas.And awesome they were. Even if you have a fantastic enchilada recipe, I suggest you take a break from it for one night and try this one. So good. It's my new go-to recipe.

Angela's Awesome Enchiladas

2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast meat -shredded
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 1/4 cups sour cream
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, chopped
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained
1 (1.25 ounce) package mild taco seasoning mix
1 bunch green onions, chopped, divided
1 cup water
1 teaspoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
5 (12 inch) flour tortillas (we've used corn tortillas as well-very good)
3 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives (we're not olive people and left these off)

Place the chicken in a large pot and add water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the chicken pieces are no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Shred chicken by placing two forks back to back and pulling meat apart. Set the shredded chicken aside. Meanwhile, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chili powder in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, then turn off the heat and cover to keep warm.
Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, chopped green chilies, taco seasoning, half of the bunch of chopped green onion, and water. Allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the lime juice, onion powder, and garlic powder; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Stir 1 cup of the soup mixture into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Spread the remaining soup mixture on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over the chicken filling before folding the tortillas, reserving half of the shredded cheese for topping the enchiladas. Fold tortillas over the filling and place seam-side down in the prepared pan.
Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Cover with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of Cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the reserved chopped green onions and the sliced olives on top of the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven until filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 25 minutes.

Photo and recipe from here.

Morning Routine Cards

2011-01-12T21:35:00.000-08:00

Download the set of morning routine reminder cards (in girl or boy colors) for FREE! My son has autism, so visual helps like this are HUGE in our house. And, also provided is an afternoon routine poster for download too. Functional and good looking!

Get the cards from Living Locurto here. Be sure to check out the rest of the printable she provides on her site!!

Wrapped Wreath

2011-01-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Love the color blocking on this wreath! Perfect for spring and made from (wait for it)..... vintage bed sheets!! Of course, you could do the same thing with your favorite fabrics instead if you don't have any vintage sheets around.

See the full tutorial at Vintage Sheets here.

Camera Strap with a Lens Cap Pocket

2011-01-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

When I get around to making another project for myself-this is going to be it. I really like the handmade strap I have currently on my camera, but this one is so much more practical!! It has a little pocket right on the strap for the lens cap. And I'm always losing my dang lens cap (I need to start putting it in the same pocket every time). Fantastic solution from HoneyScrap!! See the tutorial here.

Homemade Butter

2011-01-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

I've been really intrigued lately by skills that teach you how to get back to the basics. Like "pioneer", "I can live off the land" skills. Today, I found a recipe for making your own butter that sounds so easy, kids can get involved! I wonder if it's cheaper to make your own butter or buy it?

Get the recipe and ingredient suggestions from Maize in Montana here.

Party Dress Pattern

2011-01-11T12:27:00.000-08:00

I don't normally love "froofy" dresses, but this one is just right-formal but still simple lines. And I love the wide sash!! I can imagine it in so many fabrics for so many occasions. Bookmarked it for Storey's Easter dress this year.The full tutorial (and pattern) from The Cottage Home here.

Ruffle Headband

2011-01-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

I love these little headbands. You could even make the ruffle portion as a slipcover for an existing headband (I don't love the elastic going around my neck). A great project for fabric scraps!

Tutorial from Punkin Patterns here.

Polka Dot Mobile

2011-01-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

Storey is almost too big for her crib at this point, but I think this mobile would be adorable over a "big kid bed" too. So simple, so cute.

See all of the instructions at Sew She Sews.

Wooden Pallet Reading Nook

2011-01-10T19:07:00.001-08:00

I keep coming across these amazing furniture tutorials that I really want to build in our next house (when we have more room and the majority of our stuff is no longer in storage). This reading nook was built from wooden pallets. Amazing.

Instructions from Kojodesigns in two parts here and here.

Fancy Grilled Ham Sandwiches

2011-01-10T11:31:00.000-08:00

My husband started getting the Food Network magazine a few months ago and we promptly fell in love with this easy recipe from one of the first issues. Adding apple to the combination sounded a little weird at first, but it is so.good!! An easy weeknight meal!
Get the recipe from the Food Network site here.

Easy Wall Decor

2011-01-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

I really love big graphic art-and cheap ways to make it. So when I came across this easy way to create a quote on canvas, I fell in love. No idea where we'd put something like so or what it would say, but maybe someday I'll come up with something absolutely perfect. Would look great over a couch as well.

Instructions from Nothing But Bonfires here.

Girl's Handmade Jacket

2011-01-10T11:23:00.001-08:00

This little jacket would be absolutely perfect for the winter's in a warm/non snowy locale. I hardly ever see FREE jacket patterns online for kids, so I bookmarked this one as soon as I came across it.

See the tutorial (and get the pattern pieces from Sew a Straight Line here.

Huge Purse

2011-01-09T20:35:00.000-08:00

I really want to make one of these huge purses from an IKEA couch cushion cover (from the As-Is). Dana doesn't provide a detailed tutorial, but I'm pretty sure I can figure it out with some of the tips that she gives.

See original post from MADE here.

Molten Chocolate Cake

2011-01-09T20:32:00.000-08:00

Normally I don't share recipes on here, but I think I'm going to start. Starting today. This one was just so good and SO easy, everyone needs to try it. Molten Chocolate Cake from Pioneer Woman site.
Tastes exactly like the cake I had on our last cruise!

Mod Doll House

2011-01-09T20:27:00.000-08:00

One of my goals this year is to update this blog a little more often. I see projects all the time that I want to try, but just add a bookmark. I need to load them all up here.

Starting with this doll house. Especially since if Storey is going to be getting something like it next Christmas, I'm going to have to start on it soon.

Plans and more pictures here at Sutton Grace.

Making Laundry Fun?

2011-01-07T21:51:00.001-08:00

When I FINALLY have a real laundry room, I want, no NEED a laundry basket dresser for it.

See the plans here at Ana-White.com.

Yarn Wreath

2010-10-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Not so sure how this one would hold up outdoors, but I love the look.

Maybe switch the black to brown for Thanksgiving?

Image and tutorial from Write it Down here

For the boys

2010-10-28T22:10:00.001-07:00

And perfect for the winter weather that has suddenly come upon us...the Lumber Jack Hat. Tutorial from Delia Creates here.

Join Me!!

2010-08-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Those Summer Nights

2010-08-22T17:39:00.001-07:00

Don't you just want to curl up on this with a good book? If I ever have a backyard with decent trees, I'm totally making one of these. Zak and I think we would use a wood pallet as the base instead of wood from the hardware store. Instructions for making your own hanging daybed (from Knock-Off Wood) here.

Perfect Bonnet

2010-08-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, before our trip to Disneyland, I searched a searched for a fabulous bonnet pattern to make Storey a hat. I didn't find anything that I really liked and ended up fashioning my own pattern--it turned out a little wonky. Prudent Baby recently posted it...the perfect bonnet tutorial-and it's even reversible! Too bad Storey won't wear a hat anymore.....

Full tutorial from Prudent Baby here.

Dresser to Storage

2010-08-22T17:12:00.000-07:00

Diane turned a drawerless dresser into a great storage area using paint, wood, and plastic crates from the dollar store. Ingenious-and so practical!! If our new house wasn't so small, I'd be scouring thrift shops and roadsides for an old/cheap dresser to use for this project. It's one project that will be going on my list for the future.

From In My Own Style.

Storey's Christmas Present

2010-07-16T21:14:00.001-07:00

Sadly, I've already been worrying about what we are getting Storey for Christmas. Jakson's Christmas is completely taken care of, but Storey is just more difficult to shop for. Thankfully, my problem was solved today when Toni (of Make It Perfect) posted a tutorial for dyed play silks. Dyed with Kool-aid! Fantastic!! I can't wait to try this! And for those of you who don't sew-no sewing involved!!

Full tutorial for the dyed play silks here.

If I was still living in Phoenix....

2010-07-16T20:02:00.001-07:00

I would definitely be making one (or two) of these carseat coolers to help beat the heat. I actually have a store-bought one that is similar, but this one is so much cooler (pun intended)!!

Tutorial from eighteen25 here.

If you haven't subscribed to this blog yet, you definitely need to add it to your list of "crafty reads"!!

Pottery Barn Inspired Chandelier

2010-07-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

Can you tell with all of these house projects that I'm ready to move and own a house again?!?

This one is a brilliant tutorial from The Hand Me Down House. I love finding out how people make designer look-a-likes for a fraction of the price. She saw a Pottery Barn chandelier and made her own from thrift shop items. Incredible!
If you could find a "before" light fixture on Freecycle-you could make this for even cheaper!!

I'm a sucker

2010-07-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

for a t-shirt refashion and this one is perfect for summer.Take a long sleeve t-shirt and transform it into something you can wear mid-July.

Tutorial from Make It and Love It here.

Rainbow Bunting Quilt

2010-07-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

You would think that I'd be totally sick of anything with a bunting on it by now, but I just can't get enough.

I may have to make one of these Rainbow Bunting Quilts (tutorial from a pretty cool life) for myself (my kids have enough quilts, right?). Seriously, adorable

Baby Food Jar Light Strand

2010-07-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

I saved all of Storey's baby food jars, but never had a solid reason. I figured I could eventually use them for some sort of project. When we moved, I still hadn't come up with a great project, so I gave them away.

Now, a year later, I have found it. The perfect baby food jar project and I have no baby food jars. Dang.

Check out this light strand from Little Apartment on the Prairie made with baby food jars and bulbs while I beg on Freecycle for supplies.

Vintage Maps in Embroidery Hoops

2010-07-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

There's no tutorial for this, but it looks pretty self explanatory.

And pretty awesome.
I was going through boxes of my teaching supplies the other night and found a whole slew of maps and vintage map books. Don't be surprised if you see this idea on my wall in the near future.

Original link from Flickr account Atelierpompadour.

Lazy Susan Book Caddy

2010-07-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

I love this idea from Ohdeedoh for storing often read kids' books.
Jakson would love something like this on his dresser.
And, even better, there's an entire tutorial explaining exactly how to make it.

See the post and tutorial here.

Mod Podge signs

2010-07-05T16:02:00.001-07:00

There are so so many things that can be done with Julie's awesome tutorial for a sign/chalkboard. I've only used Mod Podge a handful of times and it still scares me a little, but this one looks so easy, I probably wouldn't mess it up!

Tutorial by Julie guest posting on Blessed Little Nest.

Covered Lamp Shades

2010-07-05T15:49:00.000-07:00

At one point a wet washcloth was left draped over my bedside lampshade and it left a yellow line across it--kind of gross. I've gotten in the habit of turning the lampshade around when the line shows, but this tutorial from Isabella and Max Rooms for covering lampshades with fabric and trim may just change that problem.

Now to find the perfect fabric.

Crib into Reading Bench

2010-06-29T19:06:00.000-07:00

Poor, neglected blog, but I'm determined to get this started again-there are so many fantastic ideas online and I want to keep track of all of them.

We have two cribs that aren't being used because, at the moment, Storey insists on sleeping in a pack in play in the closet. Why?!?I saw this idea from Whimsy Smitten today and think it is a fantastic crib upcycle. I'm already picturing it in my mind. Grass green wood and a vinyl covered cotton for the pad.

Winterize

2009-09-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

Now that I live where I need things like scarves, hats, and gloves (unheard of in Phoenix), tutorials like this one from Down With Clutter really catch my eye. Two things I love: refashioning and sewing. And one thing I need: warmth. A great way to get more use out of those too small sweaters I seem to have an excess of!

See her tutorial for hat and mittens from a felted sweater here.

Window Treatments

2009-09-17T14:58:00.001-07:00

Not sure where I would incorporate this idea, but I love it! Pelmet Boxes (did you know that's what they were called)-my kind of project. Cheap and easy!

See all the instructions from Little Green Notebook here.

Decorating for Fall

2009-09-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

Living in Phoenix, we sort of missed out on the fall season. It went from hot as Hades to winter-a frigid 70 degrees, 65 if we were lucky. No changing leaves, warm Halloween costumes, or sweaters-but now all of that has changed. And to celebrate, I decided to make myself a wreath. But not just any wreath. A monogrammed wreath like this one from Nester. I haven't found the perfect letter V yet, but hopefully that situation will be remedied today.

My jeans WERE too long

2009-09-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

I buy all of my jeans at thrift shops (except for the occasional Target splurge), which means that while I get them to fit me in the waist, I don't always get to choose the length. And apparently I am short because all of the jeans I buy tend to be too long.

Until now I've been piling them up then when I have a burst of energy and some spare time, I pick one out of the pile, cut the bottom off, create a new hem and sew it up.

That is time consuming.

So when I saw Stephanie's tutorial for hemming while keeping the original pant hem, I fell in love. And it is so easy. I fixed a pair of pants this week in less than 10 minutes. That's some kind of record.

Do yourself a favor and check out the tutorial here. You'll never go back.

Bed Skirt

2009-09-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

My bed desperately needs a bedskirt. And I desperately need to shove things under the bed and don't want everyone to see the mess. I have been contemplating different inexpensive ways that I could go about making myself one, but then I found the DIY Faux Bedskirt post at Living with Lindsay and my search was over. Easy. Functional. Perfect.

Now if I can just find the time to do it!

See all the instructions here.

I just can't get enough

2009-09-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

I really can't get enough of these shirt refashions. I love this one from Liliash that uses the existing collar. So cute! Not sure if it would work so much for Storey because she's so tiny, but would be great for an older toddler! And uses my beloved elastic thread!

See all the instructions here.

Change your shoes.

2009-09-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

I have grossly neglected this blog. I continue to bookmark things, but then get too busy with my projects that I don't end up posting my favorites. I'm going to try and make up for the lack of posts this week.

Cute shoes!! Can you believe they are originally black and are just covered with fabric and mod podge?!? I've never really gotten the hang of Mod Podge, but this has motivated me to try it again!Tutorial from Make It and Love It here.

Picture Frame Bow Holder

2009-08-10T09:56:00.001-07:00

Storey got quite a few new hair clips this weekend for her birthday (I have a good friend who makes them-lucky me!), but I have no where to keep them organized and from getting lost.

Here are a couple of ideas that I'm considering....
from Nannygoat. I've got to find a thrift shop frame for this one.

from Joy's Hope

Tissue Paper Pom Poms

2009-08-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

I've seen poms on Etsy for $6 A PIECE!! So easy to make and so inexpensive. I may even put Zak on this job. I would like a few of these for Storey's new bedroom. I'm debating between poms and a fabric pendant banner. I think having both would be too much....

Martha Stuart's easy instructions here.

Hanging Book Display

2009-08-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

This is one of the MANY projects I want to complete for Jakson's room. He'll love having his books close by. He won't even have to get out of bed to put them away-no more excuses for books all over the floor!!

Find full instructions at Ohdeedoh here.

Mini Blind Makeover

2009-08-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

If I wasn't renting, I'd pull down all the mini-blinds in the house and give them a makeover. I think the owners might have an issue with me cutting up their blinds, but it is an ingenius idea nonetheless. Instructions from one of my new favorite blogs, (add it to your Google Reader) Little Green Notebook, here.

Ruffle T-Shirt Refashion

2009-08-04T12:58:00.001-07:00

It's been over a month since I've posted here, but I've been a little bit busy doing other things. I'm starting up again with another great t-shirt refashion. Trying to figure out how to make this one with sleeves. Hmmm....Full instructions from My Mama Made It here.

T Shirt Cardigan

2009-06-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

I am surprised at how many simple tutorials I find for women's clothing. I think I'd make this a little longer (don't love the cropped cardigan), but it sounds so easy!

People are so creative, aren't they? This would have never occurred to me!

CraftStylish tutorial here.

One for the boys

2009-06-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

I've been collecting thrifted ties for awhile planning to refashion them into smaller versions for Jak, without a definite plan for going about it.
Problem solved. Looks like I'm gonna go crazy with this one! New ties all around!

Full instructions from SEI Lifestyle here.

Man's Shirt to Woman's Blouse

2009-06-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

I'd love to make this refashion and have it look good on me, but I'm afraid that it would turn into another shirt that I'd be accused of being pregnant in.
Tutorial from Jezze here.

"Hand Made" Flag

2009-06-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Love this flag art project from Serendipity.

Not sure if I'll get around to it this year, but putting it on my to-do list. Jakson might be a little more inclined to cooperate (or better understand my threats if he doesn't) next year. I can imagine that this might turn into an awful mess if he throws a tantrum half way through.

Another Onesie Dress

2009-06-29T11:19:00.001-07:00

Found this version of a onesie dress today on Barefoot in the Kitchen. So cute!

Full tutorial here.

I promise that I sew things for Jakson too, but I don't normally have to find tutorials for them because I just use the same pants pattern over and over again :)

4th of July Dress

2009-06-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

I have some adorable red, white, and blue fabric that I've been holding on to for the perfect project. Of course, the perfect project never comes along, so it just sits there looking pretty but not being used. Now that I know I'm going to be living near some awesome fabric shops, I'm a little more inclined to use it.

I really like the idea of taking a onesie that is a little too short or stained and turning it into a summer dress. In fact, I'm in love with this one from Cora's on Etsy. I think that I'll be making one of these for Storey this week with that hoarded fabric. Happy 4th! Full tutorial from One Artful Parent here.

Bandana quilt update: I was able to find some bandana fabric (no actual bandanas though) at the thrift shop, so I am hopefully going to come up with a pattern for the quilt that uses the fabric and a couple of bandanas from the dollar store. I'll post pictures when I am finished.