D'Lea Designs

Baby Shower... Baby!

2012-02-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

I love the chance to create for an event!

Ever feel that way?

Whenever I am invited to an event and want to give a gift, my first thought is

"What can I make!"

So when I was invited to my cousin's Baby Shower, I started thinking ...

"What do I wish I'd had when MY little ones were little?"

and this is what I came up with

Diaper Bag!

But this isn't just any diaper bag!

The thing I remember about outings with my little ones was how heavy my diaper bag was and that it was always falling off my shoulder and the stroller.

So this bag has a few added features.

The straps are adjustable making it perfect for a messenger style bag!

AND

The the bag converts to hang from stroller handles.

Just remove the straps and snap the larger straps in place over the stroller handles.

There are pockets galore (inside & out)!

(because truly everything but the kitchen sink must be packed)

A key fob and pacifier fob are on the inside!

(because those little buggers are always the first things to be lost!)

And for a bonus

(and because I had plenty of fabric left over!)

A Changing Pad to match.

The Baby Shower was darling and so was the new Mom-To-Be!

It all brought back some fun memories!

It almost made me want another little baby of my own...

ALMOST!

Thanks for stopping by!

Joined Linky Parties at: The Creative Itch / Tip Junkie
Sew Much Ado / Blue Cricket Design

Family Night Idea

2011-04-26T12:09:00.000-07:00

If you have small children and are looking for a fun and easy way to hold Family Night, here's an idea that my kids have loved!

How about putting together a

Family Night Bag!

For a little background ...

A few years ago, my Sister-in-Law gave me this book.

It contains simple 2-page lessons on 52 topics such as Faith, Bible Stories, Gratitude, Word of Wisdom, etc. Everything you need for an entire year of
Family Night Lessons!

It's Great!

My Sister-in-Law also gave me the supplies for one of the lessons and a treat and that got me thinking ... wouldn't it be great to have everything I needed for the majority of the lessons all pulled together in one place so that all I had to do on Family Night was grab the bag!

And there you have it ...

The Family Night Bag!

I purchased this canvas bag at Wal-Mart. Using applique glue, we decorated it with trim, iron on letters and large buttons. (No sewing required!)

Next, I gathered supplies from around our house and purchased a few from All-A-Dollar, and filled our bag with props for the lessons. Here are just a few of the things we have.

My kids have loved dressing up like Joseph and Mary, recreating the journey of Lehi and his family, using the play money to learn the lesson of tithing, etc.

This bag would also be a great idea for a family Christmas Gift.

I've just loved having everything in one place and ready to go.

Thanks Sis. for helping me make Family Night so fun and easy!

Thanks for stopping by!

Easter Baskets

2011-04-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

My kids were in need of new Easter Baskets!

After the last piece of candy was gone last year, I realized it was time to chuck the old baskets.

They were falling apart!

You see, a few years back when I just had 3 little ones, I bought super cheap plastic baskets. I gathered all the little craft supplies I had lying around and I let the kids just go to work. They decorated the baskets with pom poms, extra trim, silk flowers, etc ... anything I could find.

They looked "okay" but the kids had a lot of fun.

Then #4 came along, and I just never made the time to make him a matching basket. So he just got stuck with an ugly orange wicker basket that I truly have no idea where it came from.

But this year, was going to be different.

I considered creating and sewing fabric baskets or buying beautiful strong wicker baskets and making liners for them. Something elaborate and beautiful and blog worthy!

When I mentioned the idea to the kids, they all complained and said they wanted to decorate their own. So change of plans ... This post is not going to be a tutorial on how to create the most beautiful and fancy baskets for your children ...

No ...

this post is about

how to have fun with your kids

while

THEY make Easter Baskets!

This is the stash we started with!

All-A-Dollar & JoAnn Fabrics ... well let's just say I keep their employees' jobs secure!

And here's the fam ... even Dad dropped in for a minute to leave his suggestions.

Wanna know his suggestion ... he thought that the orange and black stripped pipe cleaner was a great tail for my 4-year old's basket! Thanks Dad!

(Aren't you glad he's not running this blog?!)

(hee hee luv you hon!)

And after the mess was made

(which is always necessary when creating anything magnificent!)

Here's the finished project

Sweet pastels and Easter lovelies from my daughter

and sports galore for my sons!

Great job kids!

Love 'em!

Thanks for stopping by .... hope your as excited for Easter as we are!

Spring Boutique

2011-04-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

In just 2 weeks, I will be setting up at

Mindy Mae's Boutique!

This great boutique will be held at the
Destination Model Home
in Daybreak.

Here's a sampling of what you'll find:

Here's where I need your help.
I'm trying to figure out the best way to display these.
Would you rather see them hanging on racks or
would you like to see one of each style out as a sample and the the remaining packaged up all pretty in cellophane bags tied in ribbon?
Help!

Hope to see you all
on
April 29-30
at

Easter Pillow Tutorial

2011-04-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite hymns is

"I Believe in Christ"

and since it is almost Easter, I thought the combination of my favorite song and all this fabulous music fabric would make a nice pillow for my piano room.

Making this pillow is fairly easy.

If you'd like to try, here's what you'll need:

This Quick Fuse is white cotton fabric which you can run through your printer and iron on any fabric of your choice. It can be found at just about any Fabric or Craft store.

I created the quote on my computer and then printed it out on the Quick Fuse. Then I cut it with a paper cutter to the size 9" x 8 1/2"

Cut two 12" x 12" squares of fabric

Iron-on the quote. I put a piece of scrap fabric over the quote and then ironed it on. That way I didn't smudge or hurt the ink in any way.

Use Applique Glue to cover the edges of the quote with lace ribbon. Let dry.

Cut coordinating fabric to 6 1/2" x 28". Use the largest straight stitch you can and run a 1/4" seam along the bottom.

Use this straight stitch to ruffle your fabric. Hold the thread at one end and slide the fabric back against itself.

Pin the ruffle to the second square fabric and baste the edges.

Place the right sides of both square pieces together and stitch, leaving a hole on one end for filling.


Turn the pillow right-side out, iron, then stuff with poly-fill. Hand stitch the opening.

Here's a pic of the back.

I decided it needed a little color so I added this rosette pin. I think I will make a red rosette for Christmas!

Hope you give it a try.

I'd love to see a pic of your finished pillow!

Spring Wreath

2011-04-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

In an effort to bring a little Spring to my home,

I made this wreath for my front door.

We need the inspiration around here because ....

Sunday we woke up to this little present ...

awww, Come On!

The flags in my yard were for the lawn aerator who came on Saturday!

and then SNOW!

What's with that!

Okay, Mother Nature ... make a decision already! :)

hee, hee, hee

Now, back to the wreath.

It started like this:

I found this square already made at JoAnns.

And with the glue gun, became this:

The rosettes are made from pink and cream shear ribbon, white lace ribbon, blue fuzzy trim, and purple tulle.

And I'll bet some of you are thinking ...

"How could such a teeny, tiny bird lay such large eggs!"

ha, ha, ha
Isn't that bird just the prettiest little thing?!

So now, I can stand at my front door, in my coat and 30 degree weather, and dream of Spring!

Thanks for stopping by,

Etsy Shop Update

2011-04-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've been sewing!

Come check out these new bags I've added to my Etsy Shop.

These bags measure 15" x 18"

They are great for an every day Spring tote, music lesson bag, church bag ... Anything!

As you can see, I love bright fabric.

Don't get me wrong, I love subdued colors too
(just look around my house, it's as neutral as it gets!)

But for some reason I am drawn to bright, loud fabric for my projects.

Hope you like it too!

Birthday Party - Camping Theme

2011-03-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

I was hopping blogs last month and ran across a Camping Themed Birthday Party over at Clean & Scentsible. What a great idea! One of those that I immediately thought ... "Why didn't I think of that?!" We love to go camping!

Well, last week my son turned 7 and I mentioned the party idea to him. He was all over it! Even came up with a few ideas of his own. So I took Jenn's theme and tweaked parts of it to make it our own. Here's what we came up with.

Invitations

I just bought a Cricut and only have the basic shapes and letters so far, so I cut out 2 triangles, the letter "Y", and a tag.

Set up

The plan was to have the party at night outside! We would start at 6:30pm where there was enough light to eat and play games and then when it was dark, we'd move into the tent for stories and presents, and then out to the campfire for marshmallows. Well, wouldn't you know it, it started raining/snowing at 7:00 am until 6:00 pm. Then out came the sun. URRGG!

So Plan B took affect (effect?! Where's my friend the writer to help me with this one! Ang?!)

Since my basement is still unfinished, we set up downstairs.

We started off with Hot Dogs, Chips and Soda.

Then we moved on to an obstacle course (everyone walks on logs while camping!) and a fishing pond.

My sons helped put together the fishing pond. Each fish was numbered. Then a child pulled a number out of a hat and that was the fish they were trying to catch. Whomever caught the fish, got a treat.

Ok, so use your imagination with these fish. Like I said, I just bought a Cricut, only have basic shapes, and I wasn't about to cut out by hand all those fish. The boys did a great job putting them together. The fishing poles were just dowels with yarn and a magnet tied to them.

We made pine cone bird feeders.

Hot glue twine to the pine cone. Smother the pine cone in peanut butter and roll in bird seed.

Then we moved on to the tent. Inside the tent we opened presents and told stories. I started the story and then passed a flashlight to the child next to me to add to the story. The flashlight went around the circle and we built one crazy story. Ever heard a story from 7 year old boys ... it had something to do with a bear, old man, cabin, bodily sounds and functions, you got the gist! Crazy! And if you know boys, a lot of screaming ... little girls giggle ... little boys scream! WoW!

After the tent, we moved over to the campfire.

In the dark, this little fire looked pretty cool (if I do say so myself!)

We sat around the "fire" eating "Smores"

Lazy man smores to be exact!

Oh my ... delish! I would have eaten the whole pan if I could.

We dipped marshmallows in chocolate and crushed chocolate-covered graham cracker cookies. I gave each kid a stick and they "stabbed" the marshmallow they wanted to eat.

Yummy!

Party favors were Water Bottles ($1 at Hobby Lobby) filled with little goodies.

And that was the end of the party!

Whew was I tired at the end of that one! So fun though!

The kids seemed happy.

(what am I saying, of course they were happy, I hopped them up on sugar and they had sticks! LOL)

If you have boys and like camping ... definitely give this party a try!

Tweak it and make it your own. There are so many activities you could add!

Thanks for stopping by!

Fuzzy Bunny

2011-03-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, so you know you're obsessed with something when you start dreaming
about it ... Right?!

Well, lately, I've been dreaming up crafts.

Scary!

Some ideas are good, and some are a little dream-like scary!

Have you ever done that? Woke yourself up with an idea?

Well, this little Bunny of mine

was my recent dream-project!

Of course I had to tweak it a bit from my dream because I dreamed he had pom-pom ears. Well, I couldn't make that work so in came the ribbon
(which I like better anyway).

My daughter asked "Where are his eyes?"

But every time I tried adding eyes, it just looked creepy.

So I decided a softer approach would be better.

*I started with an egg-shaped Styrofoam piece.

(Remember that Spring Topiary? Well, I had planned on making 2 but ran out of flower petals, so whola ... leftover Styrofoam.)

*I hot-glued this soft, fuzzy yarn around the body.

*Made a pom-pom for his tail.

*Cut a triangle shape of minky fabric for his nose.

*Shaped cream and pink shear ribbon into the shape of ears and poked them down into the Styrofoam.

*Added bows. Simply sweet!

There you have it! One more craft for the collection.

See that tray in the back with the nest ... Well I think it needs a little sign next to it that says "NEST". (or is that stating the obvious! :) Maybe it should say SPRING instead. hmmm

That might have to be my next project.

Thanks for stopping by and keep on hoppin! (sorry, I couldn't resist!) lol :)

And the Winner Is .....

2011-03-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

AND THE

WINNER

of the "You've Made My Day" Giveaway

chedeb5353 said...

I love the bag and I am a follower! Deb

Congratulations Deb!

Thanks to everyone and have a great day!

You Made My Day Giveaway!!!

2011-03-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

You Did It!

YOU'VE MADE MY DAY!

I am so excited and surprised that I have reached the 100 followers mark!

With every comment you all have made, you've brightened my day!

So as a Thank You from me,

I want to give this fun Spring Pocket Tote

to one of my lucky friends!

So here's how to win!

(1) Follow my Blog!

(2) "Like" me on Facebook!

(3) Leave me a comment ON THIS POST that you've done so or are already one of my friends.

For an extra entry ...

**Tweet, Blog or Facebook about this Giveaway and leave me a comment telling me about it!

You have until Midnight on Friday, March 25th to enter!

The Winner will be announced

on Saturday, March 26th!

Thanks for stopping by!

Bring on Spring!

2011-03-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's finally starting to feel like

Spring!

I am so excited to get rid of all the white stuff and send the kids outside!

Spring in our family means ...

Baseball Practice x3, Dance Practice, Baseball Games x3, Dance Recitals x2!

I love it!

All the activity gets us out of the winter funk and into family fun.

Even though my yard is still brownish/green ... there are sweet, fat little robins eating the berries off my bushes and gathering for their nests! They are everywhere!

To kick off Spring, I decided to add an Egg Topiary craft to the collection!

If you want to try this yourself, here's what you'll need:

*1 Egg-shaped styrofoam

*2-3 Bushels of silk flowers (I bought mine from All-A-Dollar!)

*Small Pearl Beads

*Glitter Spray

*Hot Glue

*Craft Stick

*Lace & Shear Ribbon

*Moss

*Green Styrofoam Filler

*Plastic Flower Pot

*Coordinating Scrapbook Paper

*Mod Podge

Start by hot gluing the egg-shaped Styrofoam to the craft stick. Then strip the petals off their stems and hot glue the flowers to the egg-shaped Styrofoam. Add pearls to the center of your flowers. Glue lace around the craft stick. Tie bow around stick.

For the pot, I started with a strip of green paper. I cut half-inch slits at the bottom every inch or so. I then folded the paper at every slit. Next, mod podge it to the flower pot and curl up the bottom edge. Add another strip of coordinating paper to the top with mod podge and a little lace. I will admit that the green paper part of this project had me a little frustrated so try to be patient.

Finally, glue the green Styrofoam filler into the bottom of the pot, glue the craft stick/topiary into the green filler, and stuff the pot with moss.

What do you think?

I'm excited to get busy on more Spring/Easter crafts so keep checking in ... there is certainly more to come!

Also ... and I can't believe it, but I have

100 Followers!!!

Eeek!! Yippeee!

(can you hear me cheering from where you are!)

You all Rock! and have made my week!

Thanks to all my new friends for joining in.
To celebrate, I am having a

GIVEAWAY!

click HERE for details!

Thanks for stopping by!

Shutter Love Challenge

2011-03-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

While blog hopping this morning, I landed at

The Trendy Treehouse

What a fun blog with great ideas and inspiration!
Check them out!

They are having a Shutter Love Linky Contest

the theme is

EMOTION

and I knew immediately which picture I wanted to share!

The story behind this photo is this ...

One day while the kids were out back playing and getting along so well, I thought it would be fun to put them up against the fence and take some close ups of all their sweet faces. I had envisioned a calm, productive shoot. One where they would pose with their most beautiful smiles and listen to my every instruction. I imagined gorgeous pictures I could put on the wall in black and white, perfectly cropped and perfectly perfect.

But of course, like everything else ... real life is a bit different than what I assume it is going to be. After trying for what seemed like an hour to get everyone calmed down and in position, well frankly, I gave up and just started clicking away.

And much to my surprise, the group of pictures I have from this day are by far my most favorite! Lesson learned! Relax Mom and just have fun!

This picture is of my youngest. His expressions are endless and I love that his eyebrows reach the top of his forehead when he is excited and smiling!

Here is a slideshow of all the kids that day!

**Please do not reproduce this slideshow or any pictures of my children without my consent! Thanks!

Thanks for stopping by!

St. Patty's Day Trivet

2011-03-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

**If you came here looking for the

St. Patrick Boys Craft ...

click HERE!
I linked up to this post by mistake at a couple of linky parties! SORRY!
That's what happens when kids are running around and I'm distracted!
Laugh with me won't you?! :)

Hands down, this is the easiest craft I've made to date!

I was at the Dollar Store yesterday and ran across these green Trivets.

I immediately thought

"shamrock!"

I loosely hand-stitched three trivets together as shown above.

With the fourth circle, I picked out the stitching, leaving one long strand of cording.

I then, restitched a tight circle at the top and fit it/stitched it snug between the three circles.

Trimmed up a little tail and it was done.

So I was thinking that you could do a number of things with this little shamrock.

You could leave it next to your oven like so.

Or you could embellish it and hang it from a frame.

Or you could just glue it to a stained piece of wood with some cute vinyl for decor in your kitchen.

hmm, I'm sure you are coming up with all kinds of ideas on your own!

Extremely simple!

Extremely fast!

Extremely cheap!

Hope you like it!

Don't Pinch My Boy!

2011-03-11T09:58:00.000-08:00

I realized that I have been doing a lot of crafts that are girl related and since I have 3 boys of my own, I can't leave them out of the fun!

With St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, I started thinking ... what could my boys wear so the cute little girls don't pinch them :)

It had to be something cool and certainly something they would want to wear.

And that's when it hit me!

Have you seen these Titanium Baseball Necklaces!
Well, I have three baseball players and these are all the rage with my son's teammates.

So here's my spin on these
Baseball Necklaces for St. Patrick's Day!

My only frustration is the clasp in the back. A little feminine but that's the best I could find.
I know, I'll just tell my son it's shaped like a baseball!
The real baseball necklaces have these great clasps and sliders allowing the necklace to widen and close again. For the life of me I couldn't find them.
(If you know where I can find one, please let me know!)
So I had to improvise.

The first time I made this necklace, I was so proud of myself for coming up with a mechanism that allowed the necklace to slide open and closed. I even had the tutorial all worked out and written up. Then late last night, when I showed my husband, he kindly pointed out that the real baseball necklaces had breakaway clips for safety reasons, and I had just created a noose for my son! NICE!
(glad he caught my mistake before I posted the tutorial and opened ourselves up for a child endangerment lawsuit! LOL!!! Certainly not what I was set out to do!)

Okay, so on to the necklace that is safe!
To start with, gather:

3 stands of either ribbon, trim, or in my case ... shoelaces! You'll also need a package of strong jump rings, cord clamps, and magnetic clamp.

Tie a knot at one end and braid the three laces together.

At the end of your laces, cut them even and attach the cord clamps.

Attach the cord clamps to one jump ring.

Attach one side of the magnetic clamps to the jump ring. Repeat the above steps for the other end of the laces and there you have it!

Now one down and two more necklaces to go!
My son was thrilled when he put it on and now wants me to make them in all different colors.
In fact, when he put it on and the camera came out ... so did the COOL kid pose.
(And of course, the sunglasses were a must! No way was he taking them off!)
(funny kid!)

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Etsy Shop Update

2011-03-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of last year, I threw together a quick bag for my kids' piano books. I didn't think much of it until just this last week. I then decided to add a listing in my Etsy Shop for this black and white bag below just to see what would happen.

Well, apparently I am not the only one who needed a bag! Yippee!

So I got right to work.

Here are 3 new additions to my Shop.

Which one is your favorite?

I can't choose.

(of course my daughter is already begging me for the polka dots -- but she wants everything I make! :)

It's always nice to have a fan!

I have 5 other fabrics to choose from and as I finish the bags, I will post pictures.

If you are interested in these bags, just click on my Etsy Shop button to the right.

Thanks for stopping by .... and have a GREAT day!

Follow Along Party!

2011-03-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

The incredibly sweet Tiffany at Making the World Cuter

is hosting a fun

FOLLOW ALONG Party!

What a fabulous idea and fun way to connect with other incredibly talented bloggers!

So check out

Making the World Cuter

for all the details!

Thanks for the opportunity Tiffany!

Rainbow Rosette

2011-03-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share with you this
Ribbon Rosette Hair Clip

A few months ago I found this rainbow ribbon and snatched it up quickly.

(with really no idea how I was going to use it)

I love that all the colors blend into each other.
And isn't the rainbow just perfect for St. Patrick's Day!

To make this hair clip:

*Cut a square of pink felt and hot glue a square of tulle to it.

*Tie a knot on one end of the ribbon and glue it in the middle of the square.

*Slowly twist the ribbon and glue it into a circle around the knot.

*Trim the edges of the felt and tulle around the ribbon.

*Glue a button in the middle and an alligator clip to the back and you're done!

I also grabbed a package of green, St. Patrick's Day, plastic headbands at the Dollar Store the other day. I started thinking about those cute baby headbands that have the ribbon loop attached so you can change the flower to whatever color you'd like. Well, why couldn't you do that with a plastic headband?!

Just cut a small strip of ribbon and hot glue the two ends together on the inside of the headband.

Now you have an interchangeable headband!

My daughter thinks it's GREAT to be the only girl in the family!
Man, she scored big this last 2 weeks.
Maybe my next project should be for the boys!

Thanks for stopping by!

Table Runner Tutorial

2011-03-03T13:23:00.000-08:00

Last year I went a little crazy at the JoAnn's fabric sale. I won't tell you how much money I spent but needless to say, I have a LOT of fabric. All those colors and patterns, and with prices as low as $3 a yard ... I couldn't resist! So when I was trying to come up with an idea for my next post, I knew it had to be something with fabric!

With St. Patrick's Day quickly approaching, I realized I have nothing green to display in my house. So I will start with our kitchen table. We spend most of our time in the kitchen and family room, which connect to each other, and since the table is mostly used for special occasions
(we always eat at the counter)
it's a perfect place for displays!

To start with, the table needs a runner.
I had this green fabric left over from a bag I made for my sister-in-law.

The fun thing about runners is that they can be whatever size you want. So you first need to decide whether you want it to run the entire length of your table, or just a square in the middle, or just the size of fabric you have left over from another project.

My runner is going to be 44" x 22"

(because that's how much green fabric I had left)

After you cut your fabric to size, place RIGHT sides of the fabric together, so the underside of each fabric is showing. Stitch around 3 of the 4 sides leaving a 5/8" seam.

On the 4th side, place 2 pins a distance apart. Then sew in and stop at the pins leaving an opening like below.

Now all 4 sides are sewn together and on the 4th side there is an opening.

I do not have a serger :(. If you do, then skip this step. If you don't, like me, then you can trim your edges with pinking shears. This stops the fraying and finishes your edges off nicely. Do this on all 4 sides.

Next, turn your fabric right-side out, like above.


Press front and back. (Don't look at my ironing board cover ... it's really old and needs to be replaced!)


Top stitch around all 4 sides leaving a 1/4" seam. The top stitching will sew together the opening you created on the 4th side. This step used to freak me out because this is the stitching that everyone sees. But with a Table Runner, this step doesn't have to be scary, so relax! You can decorate over the top of this stitching very easily. I'll show you below.

Rick Rack! Love it! It comes in all colors and sizes and is a great detail to add.

I decided to add Rick Rack curvy on one end and straight on the other. Just pin it in place and sew down the middle. There is no need to sew zig-zaggy because the rick rack is zig-zaggy (does that make sense or only to me?) Just sew right down the middle. (Don't worry if it's not perfect ... just tell everyone you planned it that way! What do they know anyway! :)

And there you have it! Now you can add any other details that your imagination and creativity can come up with.

I added bias tape around the edges of mine (to hide that top stitching)! :) Bias tape is a tutorial in and of itself, so if anyone is interested in that, let me know and I will come up with one.

You could add a fabric flower.

You could add buttons. If I had any here at the house, I would have used the pom-pom trim instead of bias tape around the edges. I love that trim and it would have looked so cute!

Now all that's missing are the candies in the candy dish!
(But let's face it ... even if I filled the bowl with candy, it would look like this - empty - within minutes!)

Good luck with your Table Runner and send me pics if you make one! I would love to see how it turns out!

Surprise!

2011-02-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I woke up to start my usual morning routine ... stumble up the stairs, flip the lights on, wake up the kids for school, and then sit down in front of the computer to catch up on what I missed while I was sleeping. Funny huh, because really what takes place between the hours of 10:30pm and 7:30am!

Well, much to my surprise and excitement ... this is what took place while I was sleeping!

Natalie over at Nat Mac's Knick Knacks gave me this Award!

Wow!! What a great surprise to wake up to!

Thanks Natalie!

Now everyone check out her cute blog HERE and leave her some LOVE!

So the Terms for Excepting The Award are:

1. Thank and Link back to the person who gave you the award.

2. Share Seven things about yourself.

3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers.

4. Contact the bloggers and tell them about the award.

So here goes ... 7 things about myself! (eeek! what to share?)

(seriously, I am drawing a blank! ummmm....)

*I am addicted to Chocolate and Diet Coke!

but who isn't? :) LOL!

*I love staying up until 2:00 am sewing! It's the only time my house is quiet and I can focus.

(plus with all the Diet Coke and Chocolate running through my veins,

who could sleep!)

*I love watching chick flicks starring Patrick Dempsy! Mmmm!

shhh ... don't tell my husband!

*Although I consider myself crafty and somewhat skilled, for the life of me I cannot french braid my daughter's hair!

(What's with that?)

*My husband teases me for laughing out loud at TV Shows that are funny.

(doesn't everyone?)

(The show WipeOut has me laughing to the point of tears sometimes!)

*I wish I had long, slender fingers with long, strong nails.

*I fear that one day I may be bald because my hair is just that fine and thin!

Hey ... I did come up with 7 after all!

And now for the fun part ... I get to pass this Award on to 15 other blogs! Check these out!

1. Two Twenty One

2. Ladybird Ln.

3. Bugglebee

4. Busy B Family

5. Mean Mommy Academy

6. Grey Luster Girl

7. EmmylouBeeDoo

8. Rustic Renditions

9. The Seven Year Cottage

10. Drama Queen Seams

11. Show Tell Share

12. Fresh Cut Flours

13. Mudpies and Marigolds

14. Closet Crafter

15. Domestic Sugar

THANKS again Natalie and THANKS to all you incredibly talented ladies ... it's been a fun way to meet so many new bloggers!

Sit Back and Be Inspired

2011-02-25T11:08:00.000-08:00

If you get a moment today, head over to The Girl Creative for some

MAJOR inspiration!

She has started a new Creative Girl Blog Hop which will be held every Friday.

I am so excited to "meet" some seriously

talented Bloggers!

Come join the fun and help spread some love!

5 Things You Can Do With a Pom Pom!

2011-02-22T20:44:00.000-08:00

For those of you who love pom poms as much as I do, you know that there are probably 100 or more things you can do with a pom pom. I've been a little pom pom crazy around here, and my daughter is loving it because she has benefited from it all! Today she has walked away with these five fun accessories!

If you are looking for a fun project, give these a try.

POM POM SCARF

This scarf is just plain FUN!

In case you are interested in making one for yourself, you can find a tutorial

HERE!

They are SUPER easy to make!

ST. PATRICK'S DAY TOTE

I made this tote with just simple white cotton.

I traced a clover on the front and then glued yarn around it with fabric glue. Add a ruffle on top and a pom pom in the middle. Simply sweet.

POM POM NECKLACE

I've seen these beautiful necklaces everywhere and have always wanted one. So while I was at JoAnn's the other day, I grabbed this chain and went to work. All you need is ribbon, a chain, jump rings, pom poms, fabric glue and an alligator clip.

POM POM RING

This ring is one of my favorites!
The ring base can be bought at any craft store and the pom pom is just glued in place.

I plan on making these in a ton of colors for my daughter and I to share!

POM POM HAIR ELASTIC

Tie a couple of your favorite colored pom poms to the hair elastic and your done!

These are all really simple crafts with not a lot of cost involved. I know you can come up with even more elaborate uses for the pom pom so give it a try! I'd love to see what you come up with!

Thanks for stopping by!

Pom Pom Scarf Tutorial

2011-02-22T20:43:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's, I made a Pom Pom Scarf for my daughter. I was later asked if I would do this tutorial so here goes another scarf just in time for St. Patrick's Day!

FIRST


You will need to make a number of pom poms. I used 37 pom poms of varying sizes. Leave a long tail at the end of each one.

If you are not sure how to make a Pom Pom, you can find the tutorial for that HERE.

SECOND

Set two pom poms side-by-side and tie them together securely.

THIRD

Group the two tails together and use them to tie the third pom pom on.

FOURTH

Set a fourth pom pom next to the three already tied together and tie all four together. Continue grouping the tails of the tied pom poms and tie them to the next pom pom until you have a scarf the length you desire.

To finish your scarf, you can cut the remaining tails short enough to blend in with the pom poms or you can leave them hanging at varying lengths. My daughter didn't want me to cut the tails off of this scarf, but her Valentine's scarf I did. It's up to you!

Have fun with the colors and textures. There are so many options to choose from!

As always, if you have any questions, just let me know. I would love to see a picture of your finished project! Good Luck!

Pom Pom Tutorial

2011-02-21T17:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago my daughter and I headed out for a

Girl's Night Out

with my Mom, Sis-in-Law, and Niece!

Love Girls Night Out!!!

We got on the subject of Pom Poms because I had just made a Pom Pom Scarf for my daughter.

It was brought to my attention that not everyone knows how to make these. My Mom, the Crafting Queen, taught me when I was young and I just assumed everyone knew.

It was then suggested that I do a Pom Pom tutorial.

So if you're already a Pom Pom expert ... aren't they fun?!

If not, I hope this tutorial is not too confusing!

The great thing about Pom-Poms is that they can be made with any type of yarn, fabric, paper ... oh the possibilities are endless.

I headed over to JoAnn Fabrics today to pick out the yarn for this post.

Look at all these pretties!

I wish I knew how to knit or crochet because all these colors and textures made me want to create!

Since St. Patrick's Day is coming up, I chose the following colors to work with.

So ... On with the tutorial!

Start with your favorite yarn and wrap it around your fingers. You can use all four fingers if you'd like a bigger pom pom, or wrap closer to the end of your fingers, using 2 or 3 for a smaller pom pom.

The more you wrap around your fingers, the fuller your pom pom will be.

When you are finished wrapping, slide the yarn to the end of your fingers so that it is a little looser. Cut the yarn from the spool, leaving a long tail to work with.

Wrap the tail around the center of your wrap. Wrap it around a couple of times and pull tightly so that the center comes together.


Now this next step is tricky to explain so please bear with me. Pull the tail to the center of your hand (like the picture above), then wrap it around your thumb creating a loop. Take the end of the tail to the back of your hand and pull it through your fingers and back up into the loop.

This shows the tail coming up through the loop. Wrap this in the loop and couple of times and pull tightly. It will create a little knot. Repeat this step a couple more times so that your wrap is secure.

Slide the wrap off your figures and now you have what looks like a little bow with a long tail hanging off the center.

At this point, you can leave the little tail so you can secure it to your project, or you can trim it to blend in.

Use your scissors to cut the loops.

Shape your Pom Pom to your desired size.

And there you have it!

These little babies are so quick and easy to make that once you get it, you'll be making a ton! Be brave and try different yarn textures. Your Pom Poms will be beautiful!

Good Luck and Thanks for Stopping By!

Spring Toddler Backpacks

2011-02-16T12:51:00.000-08:00

You wouldn't know it by the forecast this week

(the snow is coming!)

but Spring will soon be upon us!

So on we go to the Easter/Spring crafts and projects!

I have a few things up my sleeve and I can't wait to show you.

But for now, I just wanted to post the new

Toddler Backpack that is now in my Etsy Shop.

and next week, I'll be adding 2 more bags in the following fabric!

Don't you just love those puppies!

Too cute!

I hope you enjoy your weekend!

We are headed down south where its' supposed to be warm and beautiful, but this storm is messing with our plans! I hope it blows right past us!

Thanks for stopping by,

Last Minute Valentines Party Ideas

2011-02-10T10:37:00.000-08:00

Okay Ladies, if you are anything like me ... it is Thursday, your child's classroom Valentines Day Party is on Monday, and you are just now getting to the details!

(Oh, I hope I'm not the only one who plans parties out at the last minute!)

If you are looking for some ideas, here is what I am planning for my son's party.

CANDY JAR GUESSING GAME

When the party starts, there will be a small jar of candy and each child can guess how much candy is inside. The winner will be announced at the end of the party and will get to take the jar of candy home with them.

We will then split into 4 groups.

BOOKMARK CRAFT

One group will start with a Bookmark craft (provided by another amazing Mom!) Wish I had the details to share with you. Since I am not sure what she is providing, here's an idea you could use.

Just start with a strip of ribbon, any length you desire, and decorate it with sticky back felt shapes and gems. This is just what I had around the house, but you could use anything. Just remember that if your shape sticks out over the edges, just apply another same-shaped sticker to the back of the ribbon to cover the sticky parts. This is what the front and back of mine looks like:

FRONT

BACK

SUGAR COOKIES
The second group will decorate sugar cookies ... because really, what is a Valentine's Day Party without decorated sugar cookies!

(Don't forget the wet wipes ... they will definitely be needed!)

MUSTACHE STATION

The third group will be at Mustache Station!

It's all about the Mustache this year and since there are more boys than girls in this class

(oh give the teacher strength!)

we will be making mustaches on a stick.

But of course I won't forget the girls, so just in case they don't want mustaches, there will be a lip template as well.

Here are the templates I plan on using.

The lips I found at Tip Junkie, because she's amazing and has everything!

The mustache template was from Google Images.

All that is needed is black and red construction paper, the templates already cut out and ready for tracing, and sticks from the craft store. The kids will trace the mustaches/lips and tape them to a stick.

Easy, peasy!

CUPID CONTEST
The fourth group will be playing a Cupid Contest!
I picked up this cute game from Child Parenting About.com. The group will be divided into 2 teams. Each team will have a basket of 20 paper hearts. On one side of the heart there will be a sticker and on the other side of 5 hearts there will be the letters "C-U-P-I-D". Each child will take turns picking a heart out of the basket. The first team to spell "CUPID" wins.

These are all very simple crafts and can be used for any age. Just add more detail for the older kids and leave it simple for the little ones.

I hope your party is a hit! If you have ideas to share about your party, I would love to hear them.

Now off to the store I go ... I have supplies to buy!

I'll post pictures of our party next Tuesday!

Valentine's Give-A-Way

2011-02-10T08:32:00.000-08:00

Hi All!

Here is your chance to win

BIG!

THE HANDMADE GIFT GUIDE

is providing a

Valentine's Handmade Gift Give-A-Way

This fun site has teamed up with

17 Incredible Sponsors

to provide gift vouchers of $15-$20 towards

anything in their shop!

There are some gorgeous items to choose from.

You have until the 14th to enter.

The winners will be announced on the 15th.

So head on over to

THE HANDMADE GIFT GUIDE

for all the rules.

(If you win, you might get to choose something from my shop as well!)

GOOD LUCK!

Matching Totes

2011-02-09T11:44:00.000-08:00

I've finished the matching Totes

for my twin Niece & Nephew!

I am so EXCITED about how these turned out!

What do you think?

They measure out to be 11" x 11"

(I'm hoping that's an OK size for 2 year olds)

There are two pockets in the front.

Isn't Mr. Pickle cute!

He's my daughter's little stuffed animal.

I'm going to combine these with the Crayon Rolls and a Coloring Book.
Happy Birthday E & T! I can't believe you are already 2!

Crayon Rolls

2011-02-07T19:21:00.000-08:00

I finished the Crayon Rolls today!

I've seen these rolls everywhere and have been dying to try them.

I thought about working out the measurements myself and creating my own version, but really, why re-create the wheel when there are so many great tutorials out there already.

So, I used Pleated Poppy's tutorial!

It was so easy to follow.

Isn't she great!

Well, off to make the matching totes.

Since I'll be making that pattern up as I go, I will work out a tutorial to share.

Wish me luck!

Today's Project

2011-02-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

I am really looking forward to starting today's project because it is a gift!

I love making something and then giving it away!

(I just hope people love what I make as much as I love making it! LOL)

and today, I'll be working with this

EEEEK!!! Don't you love it!

I love fabric!

So today I am making Crayon Rolls and a Bag to match!

I hope the twins enjoy it!

Pictures to come and maybe a tutorial too...

check back tomorrow!

New Design

2011-02-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

If there is anyone out there who regularly checks in on me, you have probably been surprised at how often I've been changing my blog design around. SORRY! I hope I haven't been driving you crazy. It has taken me a while to decide what I like. I get into trouble when I go blog hopping and find so many lovely, clean and crisp blogs out there. You ladies are amazing at your design abilities. I think I have finally landed on something that I can live with for a while.

So thanks for your patience and from now on when you check in, hopefully you'll feel at home.

Love Letters

2011-02-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

My sweet daughter was sick most of last week and finally, on Monday, she was on the mend and feeling up to moving around a bit. So, the two of us got to work on decorating the house for Valentines. I'm almost embarrassed to say that in the past I haven't done a very good job of creating the "holiday magic" around here. But this year, that is going to change.

Our house is now filled with pink, red & hearts!

Valentines here we come!

One of the projects Rachael and I worked on was a

Love Letter Basket & Pencils

This cute basket sits on our kitchen table. It is filled with paper for anyone to use for writing letters, love notes, drawings, etc. for anyone in the family at any time over the next 14 days. When they complete the letter, they just slip it into the Valentine Bags (see tutorial here) hanging off the chairs.

It has been so cute to see the LOVE they all have for each other this week.

I've never heard so many "I LOVE YOUs" as I have since we started this little project.

This little basket was SUPER easy.

We just used supplies that we had around the house!

We started with this basket.

and Rachael thread ribbon of all different sizes and colors through the holes.

We tied them all together and there you have it!

We cut up some scrapbook paper and slipped them inside.

We also needed pencils so we took a little tin bucket left over from last Valentines and filled it with beans.

Next we took pencils, wrapped them in green floral tape and added glittery hearts and ribbon to the top.

And finally, see that little glass candy dish ... that's was my Grandmas.

I love that it is pink.

We filled that dish with glittery hearts I picked up at All-A-Dollar.

Rachael had the great idea that they would be Service Hearts!

Anytime anyone does a little service for someone else in the family, (like make their bed for them), they could leave a heart behind.

How cute is that!

We had a great time crafting together!

And now we are covered in pink!

I hope you get a chance to craft with your little ones soon.

Valentines Projects

2011-01-29T15:57:00.000-08:00

I am sure many of you blog hoppers have seen these darling Pottery Barn Mailboxes!

I have seen them floating around blog land and thought they were such a fun idea.

So here's my spin on them.

I have 1 girl and 3 boys. My daughter's bag was easy to decorate. But when it came to the boys', it took me a minute to figure out how to decorate and distinguish them one from the other. Therefore, monograms became the theme.

I knew I didn't want flaps on the bags because I didn't want to be restricted on the size of Valentine goody I gave the kids.

I also thought it would be fun to make them out of felt. I am falling in love with felt, it is so easy to work with. No fraying edges, no lining the bags, and it's even cuter cut with pinking shears.

So the plan is that these little bags hang over each chair and as we get closer to Valentines Day, the kids may find little notes or goodies from their Dad and I. Then on Valentines Day, they will be filled with one last gift.

If you'd like to try these yourself, it's super easy. Straight lines and all! I am going to make my first attempt at a tutorial. Bear with me and hopefully I am not too confusing!

FIRST

On the fold, cut out a 12" x 14" square.

Then cut two straps measuring 3" x 17".

SECOND

Decorate the Front of the bag.

(Bottom of the bag is the fold)

I used sticky-back felt hearts, scrapbooking gems, and rick-rack. A little tacky glue for the gems and applique glue for the rick-rack and your done.

THIRD

Sew up the sides.

I came in about 1 1/2" with the seam. Then I used the pinking shears to trim the edges.

If you want the bottom of your bag to be flat, then create a box seam. Otherwise you can move on.

FOURTH

Sew rick-rack across the top on the outside of the bag. Leave as much of the rick-rack pointing above the edge as you can.

FIFTH

Please forgive me, I forgot to take a picture of the straps.

To sew the straps, just fold your 3" x 14" fabric in half so that it

measures 1 1/2" x 14".

Then sew around all edges leaving 1/4" seam.

Finally, use the pinking shears to trim up the sides.

SIXTH

Sew your straps onto the back of the bag leaving a 2 1/2 - 3" space from the top.

SEVENTH

Fold down the top edge of your bag.

EIGHTH

Hand sew your buttons and cut slits in the straps for button holes.

and

WHOLA!

I hope this all made sense and if you give it a try, I would love to see your finished product. Also, if you have any questions, just let me know.

New Aprons Too!

2011-01-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

Not only are there new bags, but there are new Aprons too!

Hope you like Pink!

SPRING FLORAL APRON

These cute aprons are great for any little lady of the house!

They are fully lined with cream colored cotton fabric and come in the following sizes:

CHILD SIZE Medium (5/6) -- $15

ADULT SIZE Medium (10/12) -- $25

ADULT SIZE Large (14/16) -- $25

PINK & BROWN DAMASK APRON

These cute aprons are great for Mom and Daughter!

(The second picture is a more accurate representation of the color.)

They are fully lined with brown cotton fabric and come in the following sizes:

CHILD SIZE Small (3/4) -- $10

ADULT SIZE Medium (10/12) -- $25

PINK STRIPES & OREO POCKETS APRON

Now all you need is a glass of milk!

This apron is fully lined with brown cotton fabric and comes in the following size:

CHILD SIZE Large (7/8) -- $15

I know it is PINK overload but hey! It's almost Valentine's Day! Everything must be pink (or red) or chocolate related!

New Bags!

2011-01-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

I've added a few new bags to the collection!

For those of you who like having your hands free, especially during outings like the Zoo, shopping, site-seeing, well let's face it ... anything that involves a trip with the kids ... this bag is for you!

It measures 14 1/2" x 12 1/2" and the straps are 23" long.

These three beauties are made and ready to ship!

I've also added two new Pocket Totes to the collection.

I love the pockets in the front of these bags and they are deep enough that nothing falls out!

My 10 year old daughter has this one

and carries it around everywhere.

These bags measure 10" H x 12"W.

This Envelope Style Bag is fun!

It measures 18" W x 11" H.

If you are one of those ladies that carries EVERYTHING! then this bag probably isn't for you. BUT, this bag is great for those quick trips or date nights where you just want to carry the essentials.

And finally, probably my most popular style has been these Large Totes.

And here's a new one to choose from.

I don't know about you, but this fabric makes me forget about the snow outside!

Come on Spring!

This bag measures 14" x 14" and holds everything!

I use one for Church, a friend of mine uses one as a Diaper Bag, my Sis-in-Law uses one for every-day use. They are extremely versatile.

Please keep in mind that the flower pins are removable so if they aren't your favorite -- no problem!

I think the great thing about fabric bags is that they are easy to care for. Just slip them in the washer on delicate/cold and air dry. Iron out any kinks and whola! As good as new. The other great thing about fabric is the variety of colors.

All this and more has been added to my Etsy account or you can shoot me an email if you have any questions.

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-09T19:03:00.000-08:00

Well, it's a new year and I am having the hardest time deciding what my next project will be. I could really use some new Valentine's decorations, or maybe I could finish the many projects I've never completed (but really, why would I want to do that :)!

The other day, I was driving my kids to one of their many activities and realized that they are trashing my van! It's bad enough that I have to drive a van around, but come on! Must it really look like I'm the mother of 4 maniacs! My four year old sits right behind me and kicks my seat constantly. The other kids have decided that the pockets on the back of each seat are great garbage bags! And no matter how many times I clean the thing, it looks awful and smells liking a driving french fry! Uggg!

Perhaps my next project should be some of these (tailored for my kids' needs of course ... like adding a garbage sack and a kick plate!!)

What do you think? I was thinking of doing them in oil cloth. I wonder if they would really be worth the time ... meaning would they save my seats? Anyone out there use anything like this? Let me know ... I'd love your thoughts and suggestions.

Cupcake Totes!

2010-12-03T11:58:00.000-08:00

Thanks to one super special lady, I now have only 2 little aprons left!

This darling little apron comes in the following sizes

Child 3/4 and Child 5/6

and they are only $10 each!

I also wanted to offer one more idea for Christmas!

If you are looking for a gift for your daughter's friends or a cute little something to add to your daughter's Christmas stash ... how 'bout these:

Cupcake Totes

These Cupcake Totes are 7 x 7, just the right size for your little lady to carry all her little items. You could fill this bag with a notebook, pen, lip gloss, stuffed animal, Polly Pockets, etc.

Just think of the possibilities!

AND FOR A LIMITED TIME ....

$8 ea.

Just click HERE to see which Cupcake Totes are available, and

If you are interested in purchasing ... just shoot me an email at vcdana@hotmail.com.

Thanks for stopping by!

Aprons for Christmas!

2010-11-27T21:12:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a Christmas gift idea ... How about this!

Mother/Daughter Aprons!

You could pair it with a Cupcake Cookbook, Sprinkles, Cupcake Papers, etc. Everything they'd need for a fun-filled day in the kitchen.

I have a few sizes left for the Aprons below.

Believe me ... the little girl aprons are to die for!

Adult Size: Large

Child Sizes: Small (3/4), Medium (5/6), Large (7/8)

Child Sizes: Medium (5/6), Large (7/8)

If you order any of the aprons shown above this week, the following prices apply:

Adult Apron $25 (if sold separately)

Child Apron $15 (if sold separately)

If the Pink Mother & Daughter Apron set shown above are bought as the set:

$20 for Adult Apron and $10 for each Child Apron

Please contact me by email if you would like to place an order and reference this Apron Sale. vcdana@hotmail.com

Thanks for stopping by!

Spa Day Birthday Idea

2010-10-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

For my daughter's 10th Birthday this year, she wanted to have a Spa Day ... and at 10, what could be better than Body Glitter, Bath Salts, Feather Barrettes, and Potpourri Sachets!

Of course we had to start with a color theme ...
While out shopping for supplies, I found this darling pink animal print fabric. After pairing it with black and white, it all came together with matching invitations, paper goods, gift sacks ... pretty much everything! It was pink overload ... perfect!

We decided that every girl needed an apron ... wouldn't want to mess up their darling outfits! So the night before (because that's just how I role, everything last minute :), I put together these SUPER easy aprons and they seemed to be a big hit!

We set up 4 tables (stations) which the girls could rotate through.

Body Glitter

All you need is:

Clear Aloe Vera

Fine Glitter Dust

Bowl

Wooden Stick for Stirring

Funnel
Bottle with Screw-on Lid

Squirt Aloe Vera into the bowl, sprinkle in as much glitter as you'd like, stir and use funnel to pour into your bottle!

Bath Salts

All you need is:

Epsom Salts

Bath Soap/Candle Fragrance Drops

Bath Soap/Candle Coloring

Ziploc Bag

Funnel
Bottle with Screw-on Lid

Pour Epsom Salts into Ziploc Bag, add desired color and a couple drops of fragrance. Seal and shake the bag. Use funnel to pour salts into bottle!

Potpourri Sachets

All you need is:

Small Silk Flowers (we chose 3 shades of pink, of course)

Bath Soap/Candle Fragrance Drops

Ziploc Bag

Pink Tulle
Ribbon

Strip the silk petals from their stem. Add petals to the Ziploc Bag. Add desired fragrance. Shake/mix. Then place petals on the Tulle, bring Tulle together to make a little sack, and tie the top with ribbon. Perfect for the girls sock drawer or closet!

Feather Barrettes

All you need is:

Long Stemmed Feathers

Alligator Clips

Low Temperature Glue Gun

Just break feather into sections and glue onto the clip in desired pattern. Our girls also added flower petals from the Potpourri station.

And for the Cake ....

We unwrapped Ice Cream Sandwiches and rolled the edges in pink sugar sprinkles!

Mmmmm, Mmmm Good and so pretty!

(Little brother just had to have one too!)

Give this party a try ... you'll be a BIG hit! (And shoot me an email if you would like help with the aprons ... they really tied the whole party together!)

Thanks for visiting .....

FALL SALE!

2010-09-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

IT'S TIME FOR A SALE!!!

CHECK IT OUT --- EVERYTHING IN STOCK

ON SALE

FOR

UP TO 25% OFF!!

If you ever wanted anything I've made but wished it cost less, now's the time to pick it up.

I'm ready to start on some Fall projects, but would

love to pass these fun

Spring and Summer goodies along to a good home!

Have a look around! Thanks,

Back to School Idea

2010-08-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been gone so long ... but it's Summer time!

Hope you've been enjoying the sun and fun with your families!

With school starting, there was at least ONE challenge I wanted to conquer . . . organizing the piles of paper my children bring home from school every day. The last four years have been a constant struggle to separate the "important" from the "recyclable."

There is one obstacle in my way, however, hanging things on the wall WITHOUT drilling holes!

I KNOW, huh!

(Be happy, all you ladies, who can drill without concern! I envy you!)

To overcome my obstacle, I found .... drumroll please .....

3mm Command Adhesive Strips!!!

My new found friend!

Everything you see hanging on the wall and door are held on by these amazing strips!

So obstacle averted, here is my solution, I call . . .

COMMAND CENTRAL!

(Someday I will learn to take beautiful pictures like the rest of you)

FIRST ...

The silver magnet boards, boxes, and black magnet circles were purchased from IKEA. The kid's pictures were made at Snapfish.com. And the darling clipboards were made by my Sis-in-Law for my kids at Christmas last year! Aren't they cute!

The clipboards are hanging on magnetic hooks I found at Hobby Lobby.

Each child gets a clipboard, box, and magnet to hold they favorite projects.

Everyday, I go through the kids backpacks. Their homework, homework folders, important notices to the parents, etc. are hung on the clipboards. Their favorite piece of artwork or awards are hung by the magnets. Everything else ... recycled.

SECOND ...

The Calendar!

Every day I field questions like, "What are we doing today?" or "What day is it?" etc. This calendar was a MUST! Now, no more questions :)

Since our door to the garage is steel, it is magnetic so these great boxes from IKEA were perfect for holding pens, markers, etc.

FINALLY ....

The Chore Sticks!

This new system replaces my previous pocket chart.
In the bottom box are tongue depressor sticks. Each stick is a chore and is worth $0.15. Every day they can choose as many sticks/chores as they'd like, complete them, and put the stick in the box with their picture on it. Each Saturday is "Pay Day." It's been fun to see which one is the most motivated and certainly helps me stay on top of things.

Now all that's remaining is some super cute, super clever vinyl lettering! Any Ideas?

Giveaway Today

2010-07-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

For a chance to win one of my fun Super Summer Totes, please visit Simply Utah. They have all the details. This fun tote is medium sized, with two pockets on the inside for your cell phone and other essentials, and offers a snap closure.

It goes with EVERYTHING!

Good Luck & Thanks for Visiting!!!

A Turtle for Alice

2010-06-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

So here is the Mock Turtle costume for my daughter's Alice in Wonderland ballet production . . . and modeling it is my darling daughter.

The turtle shell is my favorite part!

I started with two cut-outs in olive green and one in lime green. I then cut the lime green piece into puzzle piece shapes.

I sprayed each lime green piece with fabric adhesive and placed them according to the pattern I wanted. I then used the Applique stitch on my sewing machine to attach them to the olive green fabric.

And of course, since it's a costume, it definitely needed some sequins.

After finishing the detail on one side, it was time to sew the two olive pieces together, leaving a hole for the stuffing. After stuffing it, I went back around topstitching the edges and closing the hole.

Add some eye hooks and velcro and Whola! A Turtle Shell!

The dress part is tan satin. I cut two pieces out in the shape of a long tank-top. I then added the sequins to the front of one section and around the edges of both pieces.

The next step was to gather around the neck and arms, then stitch them to the leotard.

I used a stretch stitch so the fabric would move with the leotard. After sewing this, I went back and removed the stitching I used to gather the neck and arms. This way, there is no stitching holding back the fabric from stretching with the leotard.

Finally, I added large, stretchy sequins to the arm straps and top of the leotard, added eye hooks and velcro and there you have it --- A Turtle!

The funny thing about this, I had to make 4 trips to JoAnn's to buy sequins. Just when I thought I had enough, I'd run out! And, one trick I learned with the adhesive spray is that you must hold it far away from the fabric (especially satin) so that it is a fine spray. Otherwise it leaves dots making the fabric look like it's been splattered with water. I masked those spots by adding fabric glitter to everything when it was all done!

Sometimes you have to get a little creative when you get surprises!

Thanks for stopping by!

Coolest Costume EVER!

2010-06-04T23:27:00.000-07:00

It is almost midnight -- I have polished off -- oh probably 6 Diet Cokes since 4:00 p.m., and have eaten almost an entire box of chocolate covered jelly rings all by myself ... sleep? no I don't think so!

BAD Dana, BAD...BAD...BAD!!

I've also created one huge mess in my loft/sewing area

(what a great husband I have not to complain, but just walk on through like he can't see it!)

but the great thing is that I have finished what I think is the coolest thing I've ever made --- the CATERPILLAR costume!!!

I am so excited to see this costume in action tomorrow at dress rehearsal. Now picture this . . . 6 little girls (about 7 years old), all standing underneath this great little tunnel I've created, and all we will be able to see of them is their cute black & white striped stocking legs!

(the colors didn't quite come out right in this picture. The olive green isn't so olive and the streamers aren't quite so bright!)

I propped this puppy up on the kitchen chairs around my dining room table just so I could step back and see the finished product. What a project - it went together faster than expected and I didn't even have to unpick any stitching! YIPPEEE!

I started with 6 yards of knit, 6 hula hoops, and for the streamers:

that's right ... a table skirt I found at Zurcher's the party store! (LOVE that store). I would have loved to use a nice rope trim, but at almost $10 a yard - this costume would have been outrageously expensive.

At every 36", I stitched the fabric together creating a little tube. I then stitched the streamer around the edges. This was a little IRRITATING because, well the streamers are 24" long, I had 6 yards of fabric at 60" wide and a little table.....URG! I then turned it over and topstitched the streamers so they were reinforced ... URG again! But once I got through that process ....

I unwrapped the hula hoops, pulled them apart and slid them through. All I have left to do is spray Fabric Glitter on the knit for a little BliNG!

and Whola -- a Caterpillar body for 6!

-now-

I've cleaned up my mess and hung the costume on my dress form

I suppose I should go to bed.

Not sure my body will let me since I abused it so terribly today. Don't judge me!!! I'll be better tomorrow ;)

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Alice in Wonderland

2010-05-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Now that all of my orders are finished - I'm off to create Alice in Wonderland Costumes. I picked up the fabric this weekend. I'm excited and extremely nervous, but hopefully it will all come together with a minor amount of tears :).

I wanted to show you a clip of the caterpillar I am trying to recreate. Check out this link from Salt Creek Ballet. Can you believe how incredible that caterpillar is?! Wow. I hope they don't mind if I use their wonderful costume as inspiration. I know my attempt will not be quite as spectacular - but I'll try.

After that - 5 lobsters, a turtle and a griffin. I'm starting with basic leotards and building from there. Should be fairly simple - we'll see! I'll post pics of the process as I dive in. Keep checking back, thanks!

Giveaway Winner

2010-05-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

Remember when I said that Blue Cricket Design was going to spotlight D'Lea Designs and that there would be a giveaway? Yes? No? Well, I did, and there was a winner and I just finished her order! Look how cute this turned out! Well, I think it's cute - I hope she does too. So -- H.M. in case you are checking in, your Apron is done and on the way! Hope you enjoy it and make fabulous goodies while wearing it!

Down Time - Really?!

2010-05-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought May was going to be my slow month - I agreed to sew costumes for my daughter's upcoming dance recital in June! One thing you'll learn about me (if you haven't already) is that I can't say no and that I love being busy (even if it does make me a little crazy).

The dance recital is a production of Alice in Wonderland. I get to sew 5 lobsters, 1 griffin, 1 mock turtle and a caterpillar large enough for 6 kids or so. If you have any suggestions on costume design - let me know (especially the griffin - I'll have to google that for sure!) I'm actually really excited and pray that they resemble the correct character when it's all said and done! I'll definitely post pictures as I finish them. Wish me luck - I think I'll need it!

Mother's Day Goodies!

2010-05-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

I finally have everything updated! Yippeee! Only took me 3 days but it's done. Now my Etsy shop is fully stocked and everything left from the boutiques last weekend have been added to this blog. So -- have a look around. It's the perfect time to go shopping for Mother's Day.

And as far as Mother's Day goes - the Mom & Me Aprons would be so much fun! Just drop a hint to your significant other or Grandma and who knows - you may just get what you want - or treat yourself to one (that's what I do sometimes -- honey, no need to shop I took care of it myself :) ! Here are a couple of my favorites -- I know the Oreos are silly but why not -- I thought they were so cute. (what do you think?)

Or these lovelies!

You'll notice that there are a couple options with each fabric - you could mix and match depending or your style or size availability.

And finally, there are a few more styles to choose from here. And please keep in mind that I love doing custom orders, so if these colors are too bright or not quite what you are looking for, just send me an email and I will be happy to work with you!

Good luck with your week! This is what I will be doing:

Baseball Baby!!! (3 boys + Baseball = Fun times) I love that my youngest's hat is so huge on his tiny little head. The little holes at each ear are what he uses to hold his hat on while he runs.

LOVE IT - my little bobble-head!!!

Cupcakes for the Little Ladies

2010-05-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is just a sample of the new cupcake shaped totes that are now available for your sweet little ladies. These darling bags measure 7" x 7", perfect for all their little treasures! There are a few more to choose from so have a look at Totes, Handbags & Purses. They've also been added to my Etsy Shop for easier purchasing. Enjoy!

Back to Real Life

2010-05-01T23:31:00.000-07:00

My Boutique Week has come to an end -- so sad! This last week I have been tagging, making inventory lists, organizing, scheduling, driving, driving, and driving! What a whirlwind of a week and now it's over. The 2 boutiques were at opposite ends of the valley and I don't think I'll ever do that again! Talk about a crazy, scheduling nightmare. But thanks to my hubby and mom for taking the kids more than usual, it all worked out. Now, back to being full time mom again.

So starting Monday - I have Teacher Appreciation Week for my kids, cleaning up the craft bomb that went off in my house (you know what I'm talking about right - or am I the only one who creates a mess while creating a masterpiece!) baseball games, dance classes, laundry, and loading up my Etsy shop, and if it ever stops raining/snowing - I should probably pull some weeds before the HOA comes-a-nockin' (eek). What a crazy life!

But hey, good for you because my plan is that by Wednesday, my remaining inventory will be fully uploaded to my Etsy shop making it that much easier for you to buy. Mother's Day is quickly approaching and I have some super cute Mom & Me Aprons that are just waiting for a good home!

Oh, one more thing - On Wednesday, I will be posting information regarding another opportunity to win gift credit with yours truly. (apparently, I'm a sucker for giveaways!)

See you then!

March of Dimes Baby Shower

2010-04-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending the Service Soapbox's Baby Shower for the March of Dimes Teddy Bear Den. What a wonderful cause and what a wonderful couple of hours!

The room was beautiful, the food was amazing, and the company was incredible - so many talented women all together in one room. I'm embarrassed to say that I forgot my camera --- bad Dana, I know. So to see pictures of this great event, please hop on over to The House of Smiths! She is a pro and remembered her camera and snapped beautiful pictures of everything! (I promise not to forget the camera next time!)

Thanks to Becca from Blue Cricket Design for the opportunity to participate in such a great cause! There will be a virtual baby shower this week wherein anyone of you who would like to donate something to the March of Dimes can do so. Just stop by Service Soapbox for the details - and you too could win a little goody from some great sponsors!

Count me in for the next event ladies!!!

Ooooh - Cupcakes!

2010-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love these! I found this darling cupcake bag pattern at the local fabric store and instantly fell in love. These tiny little bags measure 7" x 7", perfect for your little ladies! If you're interested in ordering some, contact me for pricing. Otherwise I will have them at my booth next week! You can find me at the Country Barn Boutique in Kaysville, Utah and Oh Sweet Sadie in Daybreak, Utah on 4/28 - 5/1!

Back to sewing and modge podging! I have notebooks / pen holders / flower pins to make before Sunday - oh and a few more Aprons!!! Eeeek! I need time to stand still -- or more Diet Coke & Chocolate!!!!!

p.s. -- I just added a couple more Crossover Bags to choose from! Have a look! Let me know what you think - unless you hate it, then you can keep that to yourself! :)

Giveaway at Blue Cricket Design

2010-04-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already, you absolutely need to visit Becca at Blue Cricket Design! She is just the best - at everything! Seriously, every time I visit her blog, she has ventured into something new and wonderful - not to mention her great posts and tutorials!

Today, I am lucky enough to be featured there! (ah! little scream- big scream!) I am offering a $40 gift credit to one lucky winner! For details, just visit Becca @ Blue Cricket Design -- but make sure you check out what's offered here first -- and hey, I love comments!!!

CrossOvers!

2010-04-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Can you say A-DOR-A-BLE!

I've had a few requests for crossover bags lately so I finished my first one last night! I absolutely love this pattern! This fabric is cordouroy with brown cotton lining inside. There are two pockets and a magnetic snap. I also have new fabric so as I finish more, I'll post more pics. What do you think?

Chore Chart Idea

2010-04-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

The last time my kids were off track and sitting at home watching T.V., I knew something had to change and my kids needed some responsibility. No longer were they going to walk & drop while I followed around like the clean-up crew! (ha, ha - ever feel that way?!) But what kind of chore chart should I use? I created a pocket chart and hung it on the wall. It was much, MUCH larger than it needed to be, but the kids loved it. I painted craft sticks (the ones that look like tongue depressors), then used stickers to label each stick as a job -- (like garbage, beds, piano, dishes, reading, homework, etc.) Each stick is worth a certain amount of change. On Sunday, they each pick a stick until they are all divided out. Then as they complete each chore, they can move the stick to the end pocket and collect their money on "Pay Day." Boy were they motivated! And to the extent that I keep it up, it works wonders!

Well, the other day, my super great friend stopped by, saw the chart and asked if I would make her one. I agreed and we revamped mine a little (since, like I said before, it was too big). She wanted seven pockets to represent each day of the week, and four rows for her four children. We added two pockets on the bottom for storage of the sticks. She is going to add iron-on letters for Sun. - Sat. and then the kids names. Here's a pic - I think it turned out great! Maybe I should remake mine once Summer rolls around - definately!

While you are here, you should check out the Handbags, Totes & Purses page. I finally finished 7 more Pocket Totes to add to the collection.

The Pocket Totes are super fun because they have these darling pockets in the front perfect for holding your phone and keys. They are lined with fleece interfacing for a soft form structure and an extra thick interfacing for the bottom. I hope you are not getting tired of the same fabric (I've looked at it all a little too much!) I purchased a little more fabric this weekend so I am looking forward to the change. You could always add a flower pin to them if you like that sort of thing. This week I will be working on Cupcake shaped bags for little girls and Cross-Over bags for the ladies! So keep checking back - I'll post pictures as I finish.

The next two weeks are going to be full of new ventures and give-a-ways, so please stay tuned! Also, if you are interested in purchasing anything you see here, please shoot me an email. My Etsy Account isn't completely updated, but everything on this blog is in stock.

Thanks again all you wonderful friends! I'm having a ton of fun - hope you like what you see!

It's A Baby Shower!

2010-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

I am excited to be involved in a wonderful service activity presented by the Service Soapbox. Becca Dulgarian from Blue Cricket Design and a number of other wonderfully talented bloggers have joined together to plan service events benefiting a variety of charities and causes! Saturday, April 24th, they will be hosting a Babyless Baby Shower to benefit The March of Dimes "Teddy Bear Den."

The Teddy Bear Den helps to prevent birth defects by giving low-income women baby-related incentives (diapers, baby clothes, wipes) for participating in prenatal care and for avoiding unhealthy behaviors like smoking and drinking during pregnancy.

Grab a pack of diapers (or a case!), baby clothes, blanket, or anything else baby related and join us as we gather baby items for the March of Dimes Teddy Bear Den. Come socialize with your fellow bloggers and enjoy food, door prizes and lots of fun.

The week after the event, they will be holding a virtual shower. Anyone who donates baby items to the Teddy Bear Den will be eligible to win great prizes from Ulta, Bellybuds, Minutes with Me, GiftTree, Target and yours truly!

We would love to see you there and if you can't make it in person but want to be involved, please visit the Service Soapbox for more details!

Birthday Party Idea

2010-04-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a fun birthday party idea for your elementary age child, here's an idea. I just recently threw a Mr. Science Guy party for my 6 year old. He loves experimenting and projects, so this was right up his alley.

First: Protective Wear! Every scientist needs an apron and protective glasses. This can be as elaborate as your party budget or the time you have to plan the party. I have to admit that I threw this party together in 2 days, so I couldn't go as elaborate as I would have liked. But luckily, the kids are 5-6 and are just excited to get cupcakes. The aprons are plain white cotton, cut with pinking shears in the shape of an apron, and then I attached ribbon for the ties. I also embroidered with my machine their names and a little picture. Simple. We also bought a package of star-shaped glasses. Aren't they cute!

Second: The Experiment! We had to have a volcano. I debated whether or not to let each child create a volcano with dirt, but since the weather was bad, and this experiment had to be done inside, I opted to leave out the dirt. I took scrapbook paper that was patterned to resemble rocks and dirt and glued a strip around a plastic cup. I then glued the cup to a small aluminum tray for each child. Once they were sitting next to their cup, I gave them another plastic cup that contained 2tsp. Baking Soda and 2tsp. strawberry jello powder. They poured that into their volcanoes. Then, I gave them a plastic cup containing 1/4 cup. Vinegar. Once they poured that into their volcanoes, the eruption began! So much fun!

Depending on how elaborate you want to go, you could do this activity outside and provide dirt for them to put around the cup to truly resemble the volcano, or you could create one large volcano with dirt which every child could help form and then double or triple the solution size. Have fun with it. For a preschool activity, we did one large volcano in our backyard, my kids were 3 and 2, and they still talk about it!

Third: Magnets! On a large tray, place ordinary household items - some which a magnet will pick up and some that won't. At the craft store, I purchased some wooden wands then glued magnets to the back. Each child had a turn at using the magnet to pick up items off the tray, then they decorated their own magnet wand to take home.

Fourth: Magnifying Glasses! I found large magnifying glasses at the dollar store. Each child received one and then we used them to find bugs and play an I spy game.

We then had cupcakes and gifts and my son was all smiles! If I could do it again, I would add more experiments like the volcano. If you google "preschool science experiments," you will find loads of fun activities.

Enjoy!

Before & After

2010-03-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

I guess in a traditional "Before & After" theme, I would have taken something old and revamped it to something brilliant. Sorry, but this isn't that kind of Before & After. But it's close - I did get rid of something old for something new. That counts doesn't it?

When my husband and I were first married and in college, he worked in a factory building Log Cabin Style Furniture. We were given the opportunity to build furniture for the cost of the wood so my hubby got right to work. Within the first few years of our marriage, he built every piece of furniture in our apartment, including a nursery set and twin beds for future children. We were really so blessed with that opportunity and I have loved and cherished every piece of it for the last 15 years.

This was our bedroom set:

When we decided to move into our current house, we also decided to change up our style and put new furniture in our new house. That meant selling our pine pieces. This was really hard for me - they all had sentimental value. My hubby seemed fine with it, but I struggled. I wish I had enough money to have a cabin to move my furniture to - but tisn't the case! We eventually sold everything but the bedroom sets - we had to have something to sleep on - and our house has been mismatched now for 4 years. In an effort to clean out the basement, we listed the remaining pieces for sale and that lead to someone buying every piece of pine we had in our house for her cabin - including our bedroom sets! Great - now I can replace it all with new furniture! This all happened in January - and if you know my husband and I - the decision process is usually a long process!

In addition to selling our bedroom set in January, I decided to start D'Lea Designs and my husband began busy season at work (for those who know us, you know what that means - single mom for 3 months - I don't know how you single moms do it full time - you're amazing!) So to say the least, my plate has been full. So this is how we've been living for the last 2 months.

It started with a queen mattress on the floor and our TV on a butcher block. The mattress became the kids trampoline (despite my best efforts), and the TV - oh my! It felt like we were in college again - but hey the bed was easy to make!

Then we moved to a King Mattress Set! The last time we slept on a King was our honeymoon. I know, some of you may be shocked - but I have to think we are not the only late 30 somethings still sleeping on a Queen - are we? Believe me, we have received enough teasing! Apparently we have finally grown up and have an Adult Bed. The King mattress (which has a story of it's own but I promised hubby I would keep it to myself - or atleast not post it on the blog) was on the floor as well until ----------- tada! --- we made a decision and the new set was delivered Wednesday!!!!! So here it is:

So now I will be shopping for a bedspread and lamps and accessories! Any suggestions on color choices? I would love the advice!

More Totes to Choose From

2010-03-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

In preparation for my upcoming boutiques, I am frantically trying to build up inventory. Frantically is the key word because my new "self-imposed" schedule has me - well - frantic!!!

Here is a picture of the new totes. Now you may be saying to yourself, "Didn't I already see these?" And the answer to that is partly "yes." The fabric is the same but the style is slightly different. These totes are much large and simpler than the "Envelope"style totes I posted last week. If you like a little more "Bling," you can add a flower pin to them. I have a few on the Accessories page, but I am also making fabric flowers which will be added later.

Now that has to be enough sewing for a short while. My super sweet #3 child is having his 6th B-day this week. I have a "Science" B-day party to plan (because he is my little Mr. Science Guy). This party will include science projects for each child! (Ha, ha, I never do anything simple because I must strive on stress or something!) I also have 2 science fair projects to "Help" complete by the end of the week. Oh, and I am finally getting our new bedroom set on Wednesday (did I mention we've been sleeping on a mattress on the floor for 2 months because of our inability to make a decision on a bedroom set! ha, ha, ha). I now have to clean out the bedroom to make room for the new furniture! Can't wait to put my unmentionables back in a drawer instead of the laundry basket we've been living out of for way to long! Can you say BUSY! But hey, I will have topics to post for the next two weeks! Yippeee!

Thanks again for visiting! Comments are always welcome.

New Favorites

2010-03-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

Along with the craziness of this last week, I finished these two little lovelies. I started with a pattern I already had and modified it a bit and since this year is all about the Ruffle, I added one of those as well. Hope you like! Thanks for visiting.

7 Down - 20 To Go

2010-03-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

Whenever my husband works on one of our cars he says "It'll only take me a couple of hours." Then 8 hours and a couple of choice words later, he's done. Well, that was me this week (minus the "choice words" of course :)). I started on Monday thinking I would whip out ten bags in just a couple of days. And of course, it took me twice as long and I've only finished 7! Oh well, here they are. Hope you like!

(This one is my favortie!)

Do you have a favorite? - let me know.

I love comments (makes me feel like I'm not the only one out here totally talking to myself!)

If you are interested in buying, click here for prices. Thanks!

Envelope Bags!

2010-03-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

First of all, I would like to thank all of my super wonderful friends who've signed up to follow my blog and Facebook page! You are awesome (yippeee - I have friends!)!!! But now I have to post something interesting -- ummm pressure! Hope you're not disappointed! (you'll find that I love -as much as chocolate & Diet Coke - exclamation points & parenthesis!))) ha,ha - LOL :) Maybe a Give-A-Way is in order - definately! More details in my next post.

I have two boutiques coming up at the end of April - Oh Sweet Sadie and the "Country Barn Boutique" in Kaysville. However, my inventory is not at all ready to support two shows. SO - I have been cutting and sewing all week (mostly cutting - sewing this week). Here is a preview of the envelope bags I'm working on. I love this bag. It is a medium size bag which fits just under your arm. I think the thing I love about it the most is the "BLING"! However, I am thrilled with the fabric choices. You see, the thing about being 30something, is that I have a pretty varied style - meaning I love bright spring colors, big prints, small prints, more subdued colors - pretty much everything! So hopefully, I have something you like too.

The "BLING" is my favorite part - I try choosing pendants that will compliment the fabric and then each bag becomes something unique!

Before the Valentine's Boutique, I bought some Alexander Henry - Koto Blue fabric. I immediately fell in love with it. I was determined to use it for myself - however, ended up using the bulk of it for the boutique. I finally pulled it out yesterday and cut out the remainder of the material for my favorite Envelope style for myself. As I jumped into the process, I quickly realized that I had missed a step - adding the flap where the pendant would hang. I did not want to go back and pick out all of the stitching just to add that flap - so I continued on. And ya know what - I think I may like the look of this new bag more than the flap - I'm not sure! Here's a bag with the flap:

And here's my new bag without the flap:

Without the flap - it's an open tote. I think next time I will add a magnetic snap to keep it closed (that way, when I brake fast and my bag goes flying off the seat, I won't loose everything inside! -- not that I'm a bad driver or anything!) The bling on this bag is a removable pin. (If you're interested in a bag with this fabric, let me know - I can still order some.)

Here's where I need your opinion - which do you prefer? The bag with the flap - or a bag without?

Wedding Shower Present

2010-02-20T17:45:00.000-08:00

I know I said I would post this on Monday, but why not a little earlier. Like I said before, the ladies in my family pulled together a fun present for my cousin's fiance (let's call her "Jules" since that is -as I learned today- part of her nickname). They are such a cute little couple - so young and excited about everything! Her shower was today and the theme was "Kitchen/Grocery" ideas. My Aunt asked if I would sew an Apron that she could give to her new daughter-in-law. I was excited to do so, and here's a pic:

In keeping with the theme, I decided to sew a super large tote in matching fabric which she can use for groceries or just about any thing, along with matching dish towels and hot pads.

I love these hot pads and plan on making some for myself. I get so frustrated with the big mitten hot pads - too cumbersome and hard to grab anything. Then I have the standard square hot pads (which I probably got at my wedding shower some 15 years ago). They always slide while I'm using them which leads to a burn of some sort. So this time I doubled up the layers of batting and added pockets to the back. This way, when Jules slides her thumb and fingers into the pockets - the pad folds in half and makes it easier to grab the pan! Whola! I know I've seen something similar to this in the store, but just never purchased them for myself. Anyway, hopefully she loves them as much as I do.

My Mom and Sis-in-law added to the bag a number of kitchen gadgets like cookie cooling racks, cookie spatula, this nifty little measuring cup which measures from a teaspoon to 1/4 cup. I'd never seen one before (maybe I shouldn't admit that), but Sis-in-law loves hers. They also added a cutting board, flour, sugar, baking soda, and I am sure a number of other little gadgets which I have missed. (I told you the bag was LARGE). Mom stuffed the remaining space in the bag with pink tissue paper and there you have it! I wish I had a picture of the final product but if you had seen me running around this morning (like a chicken with its head cut off) trying to clean the house, make some sort of dresser out of an old bookcase and fabric baskets, coordinating a babysitter, etc.... you'd understand!!! I realized (after this shower) that most of the gadgets I have in my kitchen came from my wedding showers - really 15 years ago! I think its time for a "mid-life, old married woman, mother of four who spends all of her extra money on kiddos instead of her worn out kitchen gadgets" Shower. Can you register at Target for a "mid-life" shower? Probably not.

In any event, we had a great time and the gift seemed to be loved by all. If you are interested in duplicating this gift - the ideas are endless! Send me an e-mail and I would love to help you out!

New Ideas!

2010-02-17T09:26:00.003-08:00

I am loving all these new blog features that I am finally learning about! I guess, compared to the rest of you Blogging Pros - I'm a little behind the times, but I am quickly catching up. I've been changing the look of this blog now (probably a little too much), hopefully I've found a format that will work for a while. If you have any suggestions for changes, please leave a comment. I would love to know what you think!

But now I have to get off this computer and actually sew something you all would love to get your hands on! My latest is a Wedding Shower gift package. My cousin is getting married next month and there is a shower planned for his darling fiance. My mom, sister-in-law, and I are coming up with a gift that I'm hoping she will love. I can't post pictures yet (wouldn't want to ruin the surprise), but check back on Monday and see what we came up with. Maybe you too would love this idea for your next shower!

Thanks for stopping by!

New Changes

2010-02-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you who visit often, you can see that I have made some changes to the blog. It was necessary because my posts were not updating correctly! Anyway, after a long day in my PJ's sitting in front of this computer, I believe I have fixed the problem (for now anyway). Hope you like the new layout. To make things easier, the pictures on the right will connect you to more options and prices in each category. Also, there is a nifty little tool bar below the header which will also connect you to my Aprons, Bags, and Accessories.

While you're visiting, check out the new items I have added to all three categories. There are three new Mom & Me aprons, a new large Tote, and some fun new accessories.

Have a look around -- thanks for stopping by -- and if you have any questions or would like to place an order, contact me at vcdana.hotmail.com.

Welcome

2010-02-11T10:16:00.002-08:00

Well, the Oh Sweet Sadie Boutique is now over. Oh, so sad! It was so much fun and such a trip to see my stuff leave with people I've never met. Up until this weekend, anything I've ever made has gone to family and friends. It was quite a learning experience and I'm hooked! Thanks Oh Sweet Sadie ladies for the opportunity! Now back to my other job - being Mom! Time to reclaim my house and dig out of the laundry pile.

Here is a sampling of the items I've been working on. I have new material so you'll have even more options! I'll post pics of the new material as soon as I can. Each picture below will link you to more styles and prices -- So have a look around. I hope you like what you see.

Totes, Handbags & Purses

2010-02-11T10:16:00.001-08:00

Also - Check out the great Accessories for the handbags and totes.

*For a larger view, just click on the picture.

Envelope Style Purse
$35.00

These fun envelope style bags are a great size! Each bag comes with its own unique pendant-style trinket which corresponds with the material choice. They come fully lined with contrast material and a pocket for your cell phone and other essentials.
They have a magnetic snap closure and
measure 18" W x 11" L.

Pocket Totes

$30.00
These darling totes come with deep pockets in the front and fully lined with contrast material on the inside.
You can choose a flower pin to add to your bag

(as seen in the pictures above).
The bags have a magnetic snap closure and measure 10" H x 12"W.

Music Lesson Bag
Custom Order
$18.00
Have a child taking music lessons? Need a place to store their lesson manuals? Well this is a perfect tote. Simple lines, cute musical notes, wide handles and measures 15" x 18".

"Wooden Handle"
Custom Order
$32.00
This bag comes fully lined with contrast material and a pocket for your cell phone and other essentials.
It has a magnetic snap closure, wooden handle, and
measures 12" W x 17" L.

LARGE TOTES
$32.00
These bags comes fully lined with contrast material and a pocket for your cell phone and other essentials. You can also add some "Bling" to this bag. They are super cute with a flower pin. Just check out the accessories.
Each bag measures 14" W x 14" L.

"Rachael"
Custom Order
$25.00
This bag comes fully lined with contrast material and a pocket for your cell phone and other essentials.
It has a magnetic snap closure and measures 14" W x 11 1/2" L.

Accessories

2010-02-11T10:15:00.001-08:00

I am excited to offer these super cute accessories for your Aprons and Handbags. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

HEART PURSE VALET
$9.00
This darling purse hook is perfect for keeping your great new handbag off the dirty floor of your favorite restaurant. It's small and handy enough to fit in your bag and take with you where ever you go.

NOTEBOOK & PEN HOLDER
$10.00
This fun/funky (hence the name "Fudunky") notebook and pen holder are the perfect size for your new handbag. Each notebook will be made to match the fabric of your bag as closely as possible. The pen holder is made of ribbon and elastic and fits snug to the front cover. If you would like a larger notebook and pen holder, just let me know.

SMALL NOTEBOOK
$4.50
This fun/funky (hence the name "Fudunky") notebook is the perfect size for your new handbag. Each notebook will be made to match the fabric of your bag as closely as possible

FLOWER PINS
$3.50
These flower pins are the perfect accent for the Large Tote & Pocket Tote. They are silk flowers with unique antique-style buttons and brads.

HEART WHISK
$6.50
This fun whisk would be a great gift addition to your Apron purchase. It is pretty small - 6.5" in length - but who wouldn't want a super cute, little whisk for those small mixing moments or just to tie to the outside of your present.

HEART-SHAPED MEASURING SPOONS
$8.00
I love hearts so these measuring spoons are my favorite. They would make a great addition to
an apron purchase.

Mom & Me Aprons

2010-02-11T10:13:00.001-08:00

Also - check out the Accessories for the aprons - great gift additions.
*For a larger view, just click on the picture.

Please contact me by email for custom orders!

MOM & ME APRONS

Lined with solid light brown cotton.

Made and Ready to Go in the following sizes:

ADULT SIZES - Small(10/12) & Medium (14/16) - $35
CHILD SIZES: Sizes - Small (3/4) & Large (7/8) - $25

MOM & ME APRONS
Lined with solid cream colored cotton.
Made and Ready to Go in the following sizes:
ADULT SIZES - Small(10/12) & Medium (14/16) - $35
CHILD SIZES: Sizes - Small (3/4) & Medium (5/6) - $25

MOM & ME APRONS

Lined with solid dark brown cotton.

Made and Ready to Go in the following sizes:

ADULT SIZES - Small(10/12) & Medium (14/16) - $35

CHILD SIZES: Sizes - Medium (5/6) & Large (7/8) - $25

HALTER TOP APRON

Custom Order

ADULT SIZES- Small (10/12), Medium (14/16) - $35

TODDLER APRONS

Custom Order
Large pocket on the front
Sizes - Small (3/4), Medium (5/6) Large (7/8) - $25