Suzi Homemaker

Some hats

2010-11-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

Elastic Skirt #2

2010-09-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

I did them same thing on this skirt, except last time I was just a few inches short on fabric, AND I added pockets to the front, which you can't see, because I forgot to stick my hands in them....

Smart one there! Also if you don't know how to make a pocket, neither do I, so please google it first. Mine is a little wonky. I like this fabric choice better too because I can wear so many more colors with it.

Also please note that I alllllways have my son trying to help me sew, and by that I mean I need a sewing "room" with a door....and a lock.

Do you likey?

Refashion Downeast Basic Tank

2010-09-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

I've had this tank for almost 5 years now. I recently replaced it so wasn't afraid to refashion it.

Also had this other plain white tank that was older than your Mom. I decided it could go too.

So I cut along the side seam and laid it out flat. Then cut off the top part (straps, ect)

Then cut the whole tank into 3 inch strips.

So I ended up with eight 3 inch strips. I took them to the machine. Turned up the tension all the way (Thank you Sarah for teaching me this) and the stitch length all the way down. This way it makes a ruffle.

Which made the strips too short, so I pulled them apart slightly. Start in the middle and work your way out or you will just pull it all out completely.

Then when you get it where you like it....

Pin it to the tank. I started at the top...

When it was sewn on I made a mark to see where the next ruffle would go. I wanted them to overlap.....but honestly in the end, everything was pretty wonky :)

Continue to do this til you are out of ruffles.

Here is how mine turned out.

I made a few mistakes but totally learned what to do for next time. BUT I did have my 2 year old son's "help" while making this wink wink.

I still like it.

I'm starting to wonder...

2010-09-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

why my blog's address is hammycrafts, it really should be hammysheadbands. I swear that's all I've made lately. I love them. They are a quick, cheap, and easy project. I can make one or two and still get a nap in during nap time. So take that.

This one is really self explanatory. Here is the top flower tutorial. And here is the tutorial for the bottom flower.

I then added hot glue and a bead to the top flower, hot glued it to bottom flower, then used 2 pieces of felt and glued the headband between them. the end

Copy Cat!

2010-09-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

My friend Kelsee over at Pumpkin Pie Crafts did this Old Navy inspired headband. I loved it, but have been putting off making it forever. Click here for the tutorial. Super easy and adorable.

The skirt

2010-08-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

I made "the skirt" but now that I have had my baby it looks a lot better on.

Here is how it turned out.

Satin Flower Clip

2010-08-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

I just love these! It was lust at first sight. I got the idea from Ashley over at Make it and Love it. Click here for directions. Although, instead of a headband, I made mine a clip. That way I can put it on a headband. Or a bag. Or a hat. Wherever I want it.

I had this fabric leftover from a year ago, a whole yard cost me less than $2.

I love it. Too bad my hair wasn't really done, we are in "Mommy" mode.

And for another darling picture of Trey. I love this boy.

Aren't you dying to make one? The flower that is....not the baby. Tee hee

Scratch that

2010-08-06T19:52:00.001-07:00

THIS is one of my best projects ;)

Trey D Hammond was born August 4th at 8:45 pm

Earrings

2010-08-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

find that as a mother I only wear earrings. Sure they occasionally get tugged on, following the worlds biggest hand slaps, but I love them. I don't really bother with the necklaces anymore, I've had about 10 pulled on til the break, or I just hand them to my son who keeps quiet for that much longer.

I've been selling them for $7 a pair. Do you likey?? Want some?

Elastic Waist Skirt

2010-07-31T15:06:00.000-07:00

HERE is the tutorial I used. It's supposed to look more like this, but I made mine a little shorter (I am only 5 foot 1 here) and I am also 9 months pregnant. So I didn't bother trying it on. I am just assuming that it will fit post baby (hello elastic waistband).

ALSO I am still unsure why my computer feels the need to upload pictures sideways. Seriously. It's started to bug a mother.
I loved this fabric. It's really green looking, not so much brown in person. And the orange/red flowers are cute as heck. I can't wait to have this baby, and wear it. I'll be making more soon.

Scrap Headbands

2010-07-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

I should probably have taken these pictures in better lighting. That's okay, you forgive me right? I made both of these out of scraps I've had lying around. Even the flowers. I love cheap projects. If you look closely I tried to experiment a little with the stitching.

Here is zig zag...
Here I just did 3 lines, something to mix it up, give it texture....
What do you think?

I kept my word

2010-07-28T15:10:00.001-07:00

Another hooter hider. Only this time it's for me! Muhahahaha. I bought one with my first son and am now kicking myself for spending almost $40. The reason I did ruffles with the zeebra was because it was remnant fabric and I had a looooong narrow strip. I did ties on the neck instead of "d" rings cause I suck at those. Polyester boning is what gives it the "chimney" so you can see what you're trying to do.
Any other questions?

My 'most proud' project

2010-07-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have a pretty good reason for the slacking of posts lately. I'm almost 38 weeks pregnant! That's a big thing to make!

I am attempting a hooder hider for myself at naptime today, not like I can't do it, we'll just see if it actually get's made. I'll keep you "posted". Hahah get it? Wow. Tough crowd.

Rice Bags

2010-07-08T16:54:00.000-07:00

If you don't know what these are....shame on you. Actually I can't believe I've waited til now to make one! It's flannel, thread, and rice. Pretty easy! I used long grain white rice. Then when you have an "owie" you warm it in the microwave for 2 minutes.

Feeling hot hot hot!

2010-06-23T19:13:00.001-07:00

Pot Holders. These were .50 each at Joann's. Oh how I love applique. It's my new favorite.
This one is a cupcake, it's just missing the cherry on top.
Bird. Why the heck are these sideways!?
Hand.

Cards Cards Cards!

2010-06-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

I've been making cards for about 4 years now, but never even thought to post about it. Duh.

My oldest brother gave me a pack of pre-cut cards and envelopes two Christmas's ago. I never wanted to use them because they seemed so small. But I gave in and did the other day. How nice was it to now have to cut my own card stock. Although I still love doing it.

These are the ones I cut myself, a little bigger as you can see.

Wow, really?

2010-06-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking, seriously, another car seat canopy?? In my defense, this one is for my baby, due in about 7 weeks. My Mother in law gave me a hobby lobby gift card for my birthday and I spent it wisely.

I LOVED the fabric the had to choose from. No offense Joann's but little boys exist...incase you didn't already know.

The only real difference on this one is I rounded the edges, made my own ties, and zigzag stitched on top.

This should be the last car seat canopy for a while.

T-shirt Refashion

2010-06-16T14:52:00.000-07:00

I was all sorts of excited to do this little project, but after doing it, it looks super 80's to me!
I wanted to try it on but I think my pregnant belly would have stretched it out really bad.
It's a gift, so I hope she likes it!
Up close of the ruffle details, and pinning.

Onesies Anyone?

2010-06-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

I am finally following the trends. Applique onesies! Heat n Bond is my new best friend. I also love when fat quarters are on sale for a dollar. Here is what I came up with.

Ice cream cone
Just a circle. I want to do an anchor but not sure I am up to the challenge yet.
Little Tie. Sideways...what the heck...
Star. I swear I didn't take these sideways.
Ruffles.
And the back...bum bum ruffles.

Once Again

2010-06-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

Another baby gift. I must say this fabric was a PAIN to work with. It's very floppy and stretchy, I am surprised we all made it out alive! BUT it is very light for summer. Block the sun but not overheat the baby.

Vanessa's Baby Shower Gift

2010-06-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

Car Seat Canopy!
Here is the pattern I used for it.
I won't lie, it wasn't as long as I wanted it. The pattern called for 36 inches, I only had 34.
So, not 100% perfect, but I think it's darling.

I used ribbon for the ties, mainly because it was simple.
One side was white...
The other edge was green.
And skull and cross bone fabric underneath. A little edgy, but I bet Olive can handle it.
I will be making another one of these, but I will probably never use "bumpy" fabric. My goodness that stuff stretches and shifts around, I may have lost my temper a time or two.

Cody's Curtain

2010-06-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

I would like to take the credit for this idea but it was all my husbands. This was a throw blanket that I simply hemmed. I loved it, BUT it wasn't wide enough. This is where my creativity came in. I just took extra fleece scraps we had, and filled in the edges. I think it turned out perfect. AND it matched his "Boise State" room.

Two of a kind

2010-05-30T22:33:00.000-07:00

I made 2 more pillowcase dresses for my sweet neices. ....
they are twins so we had to make 2, these cases were $1.00 each at D.I.
Too adorable.

It's coming up!

2010-05-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

You just hold your horses! I just moved. So now that everything is unpacked this is my next project.....ohhhh I can't wait. Yes that's me as a baby and my Mother in the picture. Love it. You'll love it more soon!

Doing my part

2010-05-08T13:11:00.001-07:00

Our ward's Young Women had a Breakfast and Bake Sale/Auction. How I love to bake. Yes I do. I really don't like to cook at all. Nothing I make really turns out "that good", so I mainly leave it to my husband, and luckily he will eat almost anything. At first I thought "carrot cake!". I make a meeeeaaaannnn carrot cake TOOOOOOOT TOOOOOT...what's that? Oh it's the sound of me tooting my own horn. But then I stayed out late last night and didn't have the energy to hand grate 3 cups of carrots. So we went with Red Velvet. I did manage to get my cream cheese frosting made and didn't hate my frosting job! With cakes you have to be patient and I always seem to be short on time. When we were at the car dealership the other night our sales person gave me 6 red roses. I hate red roses. So I donated them to the cake. Wa la! The cake sold for $20! I was proud!

Blondes don't have more fun..

2010-04-30T09:34:00.001-07:00

Is this a "craft"? Probably not. I consider it a great skill to have though. Yes. I am a Barber. Not a cosmetologist, let's not get them confused. So technically I do not hold a license to do colors, although I happen to be not too bad at them. Funny eh?

Kourtney and I are twins I think. We are about the same height, weight, we both have greenish eyes, and big teeth (we are proud of those!). Recently we have both decided we want to go a little darker with our hair.

Our husbands aren't super happy about this, so they have asked us to refer to it as going "less blonde". I still have no pitty for them. Maybe we should ask them to grow their hair out. Wash and dry it everyday along with a straightening. Hmmm???

Working hard during.

After from the top....of coarse it's blurry....
Side shot. I loved the highlights. Maybe I will teach Kourtney to color hair so she can do mine?

Look at how adorable she is, swimming in her new tresses~!

P.s. That purse....yeah ^ that one! I want it.

Sugar Cookies

2010-04-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

This little Naughty was supposed to be eating cereal while I started putting the cookies away....

Brittany's Baby Shower Gifts

2010-04-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

HOOTER HIDER!

HEADBAND W/ SWEET FABRIC FLOWERS..

She is also getting a beanie for the babes.

The end.

It was time

2010-04-09T07:15:00.001-07:00

My friend Sarah posted this headband link a while ago, then my friend Kelsee posted it and a little children version as well. I've sat down with one window open for crochet lingo and one window open with the pattern about 10 times trying to make it.....I could NOT get it. I would get flustered and exit the area.

My friend emailed me a pic of one a little different yesterday and wanted one so very badly. How could I let her down! I had to roll my sleeves up and do it...unfortunetly blogger wasn't allowing me to look at any blogs so I just made it up. I need to work on that bottom flower skills though and that's why I needed that pattern in the first place :) but she loves it and I can say that I did it.

My name is Suzi...

2010-04-07T20:11:00.000-07:00

And I am addicted to Target and ruffles. I've done a few projects with ruffles lately but that's cause they are so dang cute. They never cease to make me squeel. Also target is my store. The end. So here is what we came up with today....

Before

during....

AFTER!
This is the best part...

I bought 2 of the same shirt, and they were only $2.50 each. So now I have a new maternity shirt, AND scraps for another projects. Thankyou....thankya very much!

Baby #2's Quilt

2010-04-06T13:31:00.000-07:00

Bumpy Fabric was on sale! Woot! Not only that but we had coupons, so we made this for a steal.

I loved loved that polka dot fabric....I could not resist it.

And satin bias tape is suuuper soft.

I hope he'll love it.

Burp Rag Makeovers

2010-03-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

These are cloth diapers which work amazingly well for burp rags, I will probably never use anything differnt. But they've been through 3 babys now....so I decided I would spruce them up a bit.....

I made bias tape 5 inches wide (it makes it about 1 inch wide) and about 60 inches long, but there was some leftover. Also on the first one (blue with crabs) I used flannel, and it was too thick if you ask me.

May I also suggest to not drink and sew

(I don't drink that was a joke)

The second one turned out much better. I just used cotton and the same measurements.

A simple change. I like it.

Ruffles anyone?

2010-03-25T14:02:00.001-07:00

I have a confession! I am not the best at sewing, and by that I mean I pretty much am a complete amateur! I've wanted to do this top for so long but was too afraid to try. It seems the days when I get brave enough my bobbin jams over and over....ect. So today was the day!

I got the pattern from Make it and love it, click here.

I love how it turned out. I will wear it tonight when we go to the temple.

I decided that it would look to toddler if I did ruffles are the way around, so I just did them around the front side.

But I did recycle this shirt to make the ruffles! Somehow we got gum in my dryer. Mad at the time, I am glad now.

Crayon Case

2010-03-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

I got this pattern from Skip to my Lou. If you want to give it a try yourself it's super easy.

Click here

I used a layer of batting in the middle to thicken it up a bit, for more structure.

And I probably couldn't sew a straight line to save my life, but good luck to you!
My kid doesn't use crayons quite yet but this will be perfect to toss in the diaper bag for church.

Pillowcase Dress

2010-03-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

After swallowing my pride I looked up this pattern which was really simple after I just sat down and read it. Although it you are making your own bias tape just know that it should be 2 1/2 inches wide like she says but probably 36 inches long....just fyi

I love how it turned out.

Horsie Hoodie Towel

2010-03-07T21:02:00.000-08:00

Once again this hoody towel was for Cody for Christmas Whoops! Thankfully he doesn't know the difference so he lets me get behind on "projects". I got this pattern from Make it and love it. Yes you heard me right, I USED A PATTERN . It was a success!! Simple too.

I altered it just a bit because it was supposed to be a bear but we turned it into a "Bronco".

Wouldn't you know that Cody haaaaates having things on his head so really it was quite a waste. But still I loved it.

If I had one word of advice I would zig zig the edges of the towel you cut.

I completely skipped over that part during reading, although I thought the mane should look "hair like" so we let it fray.

There you have it.

Ruffle Scarf

2010-03-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

Do you love remnant fabric as much as I do??

This was just a remnant I had and measure 20" wide and about 50" long.

Last Sunday I happen to have stepped on my white skirt and tore it, so I cut it up and used the scraps.

I just pinned them in a ruffle like fashion and sewed them to the ends of the scarf (both sides)
But when you put in on all the ruffles fall down...still cute to me.

Attempted Pillow Case Dress

2010-03-06T15:52:00.000-08:00

So basically I can be a real idiot. I hate patterns and directions and always want to figure things out for myself...... I look at the finished product and just "figure it out" myself.

From the front you can hardly tell I screwed this up so bad

I forget to make casing for the whole dress....I don't know exactly what went wrong.....grrr

And I happen to think Cody looks adorable in this pink dress......

My Friend Kourtney

2010-03-03T07:37:00.000-08:00

I know you don't know Kourtney, or maybe you are lucky enough! She is amazing. And funny. And smart. But most of all, she is seriously talented! I had no idea after a few short weeks of hanging out with her that she is a sewing GODDESS! Infact she is also my seamstress for long jeans. Excellent work.

She has an etsy shop you should go check out....Go! The sweetest little onsies you have ever seen! I can't wait to find out the gender of my baby so I can order some....20 more days...

Girl, Girl, Girl.....Darling
I want this for myself, but whatever.

And by the way I want to kiss the baby til it cannot take another kissy.

Head Bands

2010-03-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Loved this one. You know that Valentines Wreath everyone made but me? I am saying I feel left out and the holiday is over! Bummer.

Goodie Headband
Felt (which is CHEAP, you know I'll love it) Cut to the silver dollar size
Needle and thread..duh
Can you figure out the rest?

I have been itching to sew lately, but since there is no sewing machine...I settled for this.

Heather bailey fabric flower sewing to a goodie headband which was also wrapped in ribbon.

Heather Bailey flower:
3x20 fabric, I used remnant because I am cheap like that....
Paper flower
A brad

Fold the fabric in half hotdog ways and thread through, when finished scrunch altogether and sew raw ends together.

Glass inspiration

2010-03-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

My dear from Kourtney loves milk glass. And thanks to her so do I. I think I am going to buy either candle sticks or really sheek silk flowers for these vases. Or paint them? I found them all at DI for a steal.
Also these. I love. I saw the little stubby one at this consignment store I love. I came back nearly a month later and it was still there, just calling my name! I think the tall one will hold bubble bath, and the little one bath salts.

I thought one of those really old perfume bottles would look cute too! I heart vintage.

Solar System

2010-03-01T13:26:00.000-08:00

This isn't really a "solar system" it's what my husband refers to it as. I laugh about it. I got this idea from Busy Bee Lauren, she doesn't have a craft blog, but she just has really good taste.
I got the chinese laterns from target on clearance, but thought they were bigger than that! Again we are going to be moving soon, so I will redo this at our next place. I know that IKEA has bigger chinese laterns for a very reasonable price.

And the pom pom's are Martha Stuart. Click here for directions.

Sheek Canvas Decor

2010-03-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea in a craft magazine about 4 years ago, tore our the page and kept it for a rainy day. I knew it wouldn't be hard to do, just never decided on what colors I wanted...never had canvas lying around...you get my point.

Supplies:
Canvas any size(as man as you want, I could only afford 4)
Spray paint, color is your choice
Scrapbook paper cut to the size of your canvas
Mod Podge, I would use Matte finish

1. Spray paint your canvas, don't worry as much about covering the middle, just make sure the edges don't have white showing through.

2. Cut your paper size according to your canvas. I would do it just a titch smaller than the canvas (Example 8x10 canvas measure 9 3/4 x 7 3/4, which I didn't do...so I learned!)

3. Paint a thin layer of mod podge to your canvas, then using a card (gift, id, debit) smooth out all bubbles. I suck at this, just saing, my poka dot one needs re-done.

4. Is it dry? Add a layer on the top including the edges where the spray paint was...try not to spill it on your counter tops GRRRR.

5. I added probably 2-3 layers, not sure why, but that's what I did, and then you are done! I am just waiting til we move somewhere else to hang them.

WAAA LAAA!

Mom's Birthday Painting

2010-02-26T10:39:00.000-08:00

This was for my Mom's birthday August 16 of last year. Yeah. I got stumped on the mouth and just put it off for a few months...whoopsie! I am proud though because I mailed it off yesterday. Wheh. Checked it off the list.

Let me explain

2010-02-26T10:31:00.000-08:00

I have had zero motivation. After my last few projects I've lost all my creative ideas. SIGH. What a bummer. My sewing machine was on loan and had to be returned. I've done a few little projects but nothing really blog worthy. I've also put crafts on hold because I was putting all my time and energy into these instead of my my house, husband, son and myself. Not like it was huge drama I just got burnt out. I also paused because I was spending all spare money on crafty things. Even though most of my projects were cheap...they still cost money. We are trying to get outta debt and save up for a house. I'll try to be better from now on.

Forgive me?

2009-11-16T10:50:00.001-08:00

I've been SA-lacking lately! I've been working on beanies, and that's nothing new or exciting. I am excited to say that my order of 14 is done, so that's a step, but now I have a craft show on the 5th and 6th of december so back to slaving my poor fingers away. My right thumb starts cramping....err.. Also my camera is broken so I wouldn't have any finished product to show you anyway. I'm trying to get better and am posting a few new projects on the right hand side of the blog..check them out and feel free to wait in anticipation.

And the winner is...

2009-11-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

KAYLEE NEWHOUSE!
As you can see I did put all names in a bowl.....
Lucky girl!
Sorry if you didn't win. I'll do another giveaway soon!

GIVEAWAY!

2009-10-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

ROCKIN HEADBAND!

Here is how you can win......

Pillows

2009-10-20T16:59:00.001-07:00

I bought 2 fugly pillow's from savers for 2.99 each. Took this fabric from walmart and what did I get? 2 rockin new couch pillows! I am so bummed though because I did have a before picture of the pillows, but accidently deleted it! Mother eff!

And now I wonder why I made these, because they don't stay on the couch...

Oh well, I still love them.

P.S. I am considering doing a craft giveaway.......I need more comments and more followers first.

Halloween Spiders!

2009-10-13T16:08:00.001-07:00

Thank you again Kelsee. These are supposed to be for kids to make, I have a kid, but he didn't make them......

Here is what you need
Egg Carton
Paint
Pen
Pipe Cleaner

You cut out the egg carton as you can see. Spray paint, poke holes with a pen in the side, and stick the pipe cleaner in, then bend the legs.
If I had to do it again, I would use the fuzzy pipe cleaner, I imagine it would stay a lot better than the sparkly ones....just saying.
Still adorable, and affordable none the less :)

Bar Stools

2009-10-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

We bought these our first month of marriage, they were pine ( I FORGOT A BEFORE PIC....Dang it!) but after I did the end table.....lightbulb! Leftover sand paper and spray paint....hmmmm here we go!
After I tried painting them absolutely flawless..realized it wouldn't happen so I roughed up the edges with sand paper....
I am IN LOVE. I seriously think they are so adorable now.

Spruced up candle

2009-10-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

My sister in law gave this to me a few years back, I loved it, but lately it looks so plain to me...
BEFORE
Spray paint, scrapbook paper, mod podge....ahhh now that's more like it!
AFTER

End Table

2009-10-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

We got this end table about 4 years ago when Kevin was living with his roommates. We've used it just as an end table forever, because we always had an entertainment center. When we moved to SLC I wasn't willing to haul our GIANT heavy entertainment center with us (it was free anyway) so, we've had our tv sitting on this for about 5 months.

We got our new tv stand for a killer deal, so now I decided to sand this down and paint it, honestly, I didn't think it would turn out at all. But here are the results....

BEFORE
AFTER
Isn't she beautiful? Seriously better than I ever imagined! Love it.

Penny Pinching Party!

2009-10-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

I got this from Kelsee over at Pumpkin Pie Crafts, who got it from Thirfty Home. I just like to think that I've been "pinching penny's" more these days. We make plenty, and I even get to stay at home, but I hate feeling broke at the end of each month, and then sit and wonder where all the money went?? I hate that! Here's what I've been trying to do to help....

1. Heat/AC. Honestly? We hardly ever touch the thermostat. In the summer I can't quite take it when my house is 85, I'll flip it on for about 20 minutes, then shut it off immediately. Or if I can't sleep cause it's so warm...then I give in. At night in the winter, we have a space heater for Cody's bedroom, and one for ours. I've heard that with all the electricity we are using with those, it would just be the same to run the gas, but I'd like to think we are saving some green.

2. Grocerie Shopping @ Walmart. I hate walmart, seriously, for one reason or another I always end up leaving there pissed. Some cashier or something will tick me off. But compared to Smith's, albertsons (unless they have a kill promo), and Macey's....they do have the cheapest stuff.

3. Coupons! I used KrazyCouponLady. I've been slacking lately, but I totally clip them...love it.

4. Eating out. This one is hard for me somedays. Kevin is much better at it. I will occassionally hit up taco bell for my favorite nacho cheese chalupa and a chicken soft taco for $3.21.....or subway for their $2.99 special of the day, but we hardly ever eat out anymore. When the bill comes to the table at almost $30.00 I have guilt trips for hours over how much I could have got in canned food at the store instead.

5. HATS FOR SALE! I've been selling beanies on the side, trying to bring in extra $$.

6. Banned from Joann's fabrics and only shopping at target monitered. This is no joke, I'm not allowed at these two places, and only target with supervision. That saves a lot.

7. Thrift store shopping/Clearance racks. I hardly EVER buy anything unless it's clearance, super sale, or second hand. I found an adorable top at target the other day $8, but found myself feeling guilty and put it back....

8. Stock up while you have the $$$. Last summer I knew that we would have a very very very cheap year. I knew money would be almost non existant. I stocked up on soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, hand soap, body lotion, shower gel, laundry soap's, dryer sheets, canned foods, deoderant, you name it, I found it on sale or as cheap as possible, and bought out the store, that way when we were outta toilet paper, I didn't have to fork out the cash for that, instead....a nacho cheese chalupa....

9. Tithing, paid in full, enough said.

10. Thirfty Crafts. This is something I do to fill the time. Kevin works A LOT, so I do little projects to fill my day with joy, and a pat on the back feeling. I try to keep them ultra cheap, or free. I get the itch to do something, I'll see what i have to work with here, and then go to town (for example: I took our bar stools today, and started giving them a makeover....we already have everything I needed :)

How are you pinching penny's?

Crib to the bedding!!

2009-10-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

BEFORE
AND...
........
AFTER!
When I got pregnant with my son, we have moved 3 times! I knew since we weren't home owners that I would never get to paint the baby's room like I always dreamed. I generally knew I was going to have a Boise State nursery. His bedding from "before" was darling, my sister in law so graciously gave it to me, and she found in on clearance at K Mart for less that $10.00!

All I did, was cover what he had! I made a GIANT tube to cover the bumper, then added ribbon for the ties. I redid the ruffle skirt, ruffly, as you can see, I just measured the fabric twice as long as what I need, and pinned accordingly. (EXAMPLE: it was supposed to be 51 long, so I did it 102 inches long, and ever inch or two I would pin a fold) I just bought the sheets, they match the ribbon and the manly poka dots on the orange fabric. I am still working on the quilt, I just don't have the needle you use to tie a quilt, and since my son is sick, it will be a few days.

Thirfty Lamp

2009-10-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

BEFORE

AFTER
I wish I could remember what craft blog I saw this idea from! Instead of using all ribbon I mixed in cotton fabric, ribbon, and tulle!
EASY AS PIE!
You have to measure the length of whatever you're going to tie, depending on your lamp shade. For this lamp the strips of fabric and such had to be 21 inches long. Oh and paint that base....
Done.

TUTU!

2009-10-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

First off I don't suggest you dress your son's in tutu's. He's being a model for our niece.
Depending on how puffy and full you want your tu tu, I used about 3-4 yards of each color.
Now tulle can be a pain in the butt to cut, so I fold fold fold fold, that way I just make a quick cut into strips about 2 inches wide.
Like so
Buy an elastic band, measure to the waist, and sew the ends together.
fold the strip in half, hold the "bend" on your right hand, and the tails in your left hand.
Put the fold and tails underneath the elastic waist. Like so
Pull the tails through the "bend" or fold in the fabric.
Keep doing this over and over and over and over again, til you fill up the elastic strip
Should look fantastic. Enjoy!

Feed Back

2009-10-01T14:33:00.001-07:00

I heart having a craft blog, but I rarely am getting comments or feed back.
So here are a few questions...

Are you using the ideas?
Are the tutorial/pics helping?
OR
Are you reading and not commenting?

Feedback helps me out here....so please feel free to let me know if you use the idea's and how the projects are going for you.

P.S. if you never feel like commenting, then just following the blog would let me know you read it.

t shirt flower clip

2009-09-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Here it is!
Take an old T shirt you don't ever wear, that sits in your closet day after daying, begging to be made into something useful. Cut 2 strips.
13 inches long and about 2 inches wide, lay flat on top of each other.
Take a needle and thread and start threading through the center of both strips in a straight (ish) line.
When you get to the end, pull the string tight, that way it scrunches.
Wrap into a circle.
Take the two "raw" ends fold togther and whip stitch.
Should look like this.
Find spare fabric (left over from project before. Make sure the circle is smaller than "Pedal" and add a brad.
Take a piece of felt and hot glue onto the back, mine felt flimsy til I did this.
Flip over and hot glue the "cute" fabric and brad onto the front.
Add an alligator clip to the back, hot glue onto the felt. WA LA!

FLOWER, again.

2009-09-26T19:10:00.001-07:00

This is made the same as the "floppy flower" only even more light and fluffy fabric.

My first post, YAY!

2009-09-24T16:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is just a quick little ditty, but I wanted to let all of you know there is another AMAZING blog filled with TONS of inspiration (in addition to Suzi's-Q's little slice of heaven)...I think anyone who is short on idea's, or just needs a nudge in the right direction,

should check it out!!

http://www.oneprettything.com/

Let the ADDICTION begin!! :)

-Kristi

"Floppy" fabric flower

2009-09-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

For this project make sure you use "floppy" fabric. Seriously. Floppy only.

I used a piece of fabric about 11x50 inches.

Then fold like an acordian.

Then I decided, to cut it in half...
Cut into a circle, DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PERFECT CIRCLES.
Find the middle of one circle, and thread with need and thread.
Keep adding more and more "pedals"
When you've finished threading all of them on, make a circle, and tie off.
Use and alligator clip (I cover mine with hot glue and ribbon)
Hot glue your flower to the clip
Find a head band, or whatever you want to decorate with.
And there you have it!

New Authors!

2009-09-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

I will no longer be the only one posting projects on this blog! Two of my favorite people have gladly accepted being apart of this blog.

KRISTI! She is one crafty gal. Seriously, legit! She'll knock yo socks off.
THERESA! She is a mastermind. If she doesn't know how, she'll figure it out. Just you wait.
Next project will be posted asap.

Fabric Flowers

2009-09-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

I found the tutorial for this here.

Now I just have to say, I did one flower with a raw edge, and one with a clean edge. I really like the raw edge better. Just sayin.

RAW
CLEAN

French Memo Board #2

2009-09-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

BEFORE
AFTER
"GASP! I must have one, but how did you make it???"
I'm glad you asked, here are step by step instructions, and pictures too!

1. Go to Walmart and by a frame, throw the glass away.

2. Cut out a piece of cardboard the size of the glass exactly, as well as a piece of batting.

3. Now cut out a piece of fabric about 1 inch bigger than the card board.

5. Take the actual frame and paint it to the color of your liking.
6. Hot glue fabric to the cardboard. (Make sure batting is inbetween) pull fabric tight as you glue. Be patient, you'll want it tight. Should look like this.
7. Make sure you don't spray paint your thumb....or do it doesn't really matter. I'm not a hand model.
8. Take a break from your hard work and enjoy a beverage of your choice.
9. Cut pieces of ribbon about 1/2-1 inch longer than the carboard. Hot glue bottom row first, and let cool completely. Then while gluing the top row, place a dot of glue, lay ribbon down and make sure it's pulled tight. Hold until cooled off. That way the ribbon is tight.

10. Make sure the frame is dry and place "cardboard" in the frame.
There you have it! You've made a french memo board! Way to go!

Head Band

2009-09-13T16:39:00.000-07:00

It's not perfect, but I will admit, it's adorable. And easy as pie.
You'll need two 18inch x 2 1/2 inch pieces of fabric. This fabric was remnant! CHEAP!
I sewed pretty ends together on 3 sides, turned it insideout and sew the last end.
You'll need 2 hair ties, looped together, and then make a fold on the end of the fabric with the hair tie, and sew the end. TA DA!

How To: Personalize your front door.

2009-09-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

Supplies:
Paint
Paint brush
Mod Podge
2 magnets
1 small paper flower
1 large paper flower
1 brag
Hot glue gun

Supplies:
Yarn
Crochet hook
button
magnet
hot glue gun
Here is a link for a tutorial for making a crocheted flower.

Le Cake

2009-09-11T12:30:00.001-07:00

Here are the basic directions...

This was really not that hard. TOTALLY CUTE. I would honestly... lay the cake on it's "back" and just frost it that way. IT WILL TIP OVER. I promise. Also... instead of using whoppers I used milk duds. And instead of using M&M's I used chocolate chips. Let me know how it goes!

Iron on's rock my world.

2009-09-11T12:25:00.000-07:00

Self Explanatory! Suuuuuuper easy. And totally cute!

Pillow Case

2009-09-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

I just have to say, I pretty much suck at sewing....okay not really, I just unexperienced, and I need to be patient and measure better. But here is the pillow case I made for my little brother.
See, if I could re do it, I would do a much better job...raw edges...oh well.

Head Bands

2009-09-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

These were so cheap and quite easy.

This first one didn't quite turn out like it was supposed to. It was a tutorial on making a fabric flower from littlebirdiesecrets.com. Still cute though.

This was is self explanatory. Crocheted flower, and a head band. I need to add a button to the middle.

This was so darling! I used an old t shirt, cut out little hearts, and sewed them close together. I love it!

That time of the Month

2009-08-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

My friend KRISTI is pretty much a sewing genius/fool. I'm amazed at what she can do in such a short amount of time. She made this for me last time I was there. Maybe my I can look forward to my next period.

Trade Show

2009-07-19T16:11:00.000-07:00

Finally got the trade show OVER WITH! It wasn't all it could have been. There were only 8-9 tables, and hardly anyone showed up. I sold 1 hat. 1. That's it. But everyone thought they were "so cute" and loved them. A few even took down my info so they could put in a custom order. AND I even had a mary kay lady tell me I need to start fighting the aging process.....psh....leave me be woman!

Instead of making money...I got a sunburn. But I got out there and I tried.

wanna be french memo board

2009-07-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

I've wanted one of these for so long, but then my friend Kristi gave me a link on how to make my own! I was pumped!!! I used a frame we got for our wedding that I never really loved. I spray painted it pink. Here is the link. Very easy.

The first time I tried making it I was in a hurry and it didn't turn out nearly as cute. I and used ric rac instead of ribbon....not a good idea.

Totally Forgot

2009-07-09T12:32:00.001-07:00

I made this a while back and totally forgot about it! I just used an old hanger so it would be easy to unravel and ravel back together, I have 2 of them, one for regular ribbon and one for wired ribbon. It's totally handy.

I also got myself into a trade show next weekend to sell some of my hats! People have been telling me to do it forever but I am so afraid no one will want them....i would feel rejected. I started making some yesterday. Here are the ones I've made so far.

Do you like?

Hair Bow's #2

2009-07-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

I made these one's for my sister in law's sister in law. I made a few changes this time and it was much easier, and pretty much the same price.

I found these flowers in the dollar section at Michael's. I hated the middle though.

So I pulled that right out and used brad's instead. Perfect! I also bought a package of alligator clips at Sally's. You get so many more there for much less than if you buy the ones at Michaels...just saying.

Then I bought already made plain head bands at Sally's, instead of using a knee high...okay that's a lie the tan colored one is a knee high. It was already made, and the same price. Easy as pie!

22, TOOTOO, Tu Tu

2009-06-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

I saw this dress form, and thought it was TOTALLY ADORABLE. But I was like "Where would I put it?" and "It would be so useless". With the tutu it's still useless, but at least it's not so plain.

I used tulle (which is super cheap I found out) leftover from the project below. I used ribbon for that waistband. I cut the tulle into 2 inch wide by 12 inch long strips. Fold the ends over about 1 inch and make a slit. I do slip knots to tie it onto the ribbon, and just did as many as needed to make it fluffy and full.

Tree/Plant

2009-06-23T16:44:00.000-07:00

I have seen these before and always wanted one, but never could seem to find one. I found this little beauty at DI for 3 bucks! I didn't like how old lady it looked to me, so I tore it apart, and redid it.

BEFORE

AFTER

CLOSE UP

New Hat

2009-06-21T18:48:00.001-07:00

FINALLY! I figured out how to make a beanie with a bill! Thank you for your inspiration Sarah. I didn't use a pattern, because I can't follow them to save my life! I just crocheted a beanie. Measure across my forehead how wide I wanted the bill, marked it, then tied more yarn to the hat and start adding onto the hat. I doubled crocheted til I thought it was long enough. I use a GIANT needle to weave the end tails back into the hat. Wa LA!

Dress

2009-06-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

If you think I sewed this dress, that you must think I'm goooooooooood. I didn't sew it, but I did get it for super cheap. "why are you blogging about a super great deal?" because. When I tried it on I noticed one of the very important boob buttons was missing. I asked for a discount because of this. I got 20% off. So this brought the total to $12. Now this weekend I wore it, as you can see below, and I noticed it also has a hole in the side, and I busted off another button. BUMMER! My project is to over haul this dress. It needs new buttons and some stitching on the side, and I'm just the girl for the job.

Plus I have not posted a new project in weeks. I'm sorry. I moved okay, and I am not ready to commit to crafts yet.

Apron

2009-03-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

It's true, I don't love patterns, I only used the pattern to put out the pieces then completely ignored the rest. It turned out just fine. If would change a few things if I did it again, but probably won't. I really loved the bird fabric.

No Bake Cookies

2009-03-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

These are quite orgasmic. If you make them right. Here are the directions.

Mix together in a bowl 1st:
3 cups of quick oats oatmeal (not old fashioned!)
1/2 cup coconuts
1/2 cup sliced almonds
6 tablespoons cocoa
1 tablespoon of vanilla

In a sauce pan bring to a boil on medium high, for 1-2 minutes
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup butter

Mix altogther and lay in lumps on wax paper. Let it harden, and enjoy! hmmmmm

Birthday Painting

2009-03-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

I've been working on this painting since the end of November. Not everyday. It's one of those projects that I work on here and there. It's mostly done, I still walk by it and want to touch it up a little. Anyways, I used tempura paint.

Baby Hair Accesories

2009-03-01T13:28:00.000-08:00

I'm not trying to dress Cody up like a little girl, I just needed a baby head to try this on! Anyways. You buy knee highs whatever color you would like and you hand sew the ends together, then you sew a small piece of ribbon around the knee high vertically so it makes a loop and a loop (the knee high and the ribbon) make sure you sew the ribbon ends together and to the knee high as well. I just bought the white flowers, but the ribbon ones I made. If you make them buy alligator clips (at sally's is the only place I found the) that way you can change them easily.

Valance!

2009-02-27T09:19:00.001-08:00

This fabric was on clearance at Joann's and that's why I have been using it for everything. I love it. And the little curtain rod was .89 cents! So altogether this cost me less than $2.00.

Another Bag

2009-02-24T21:52:00.000-08:00

From the front

The back

Cody helping me sew, by being a happy boy.

I broke down and decided to measure and use straight lines, it turns out better this way.
href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MeRmyQkm1zY/SaTdUaTgK6I/AAAAAAAAAE8/qswVVG-zfFI/s1600-h/P1200220.JPG">

Little Tote

2009-02-23T16:05:00.001-08:00

I've come to realize that I am not a very patient person. I have some patterns for sewing but I don't use them. I know they are simple, but I just don't even want to put the effort forth at all. So this is just simply a little bag. Don't look too close, you'll see the flaws.

2009-02-23T16:04:00.001-08:00

Night Stand Makeover

2009-02-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

I have always wanted really nice night stands. We only have the one little table, but it works well. It was a hand me down from Kevin's Mom. It used to have a green table cloth on it, which was fine, but I knew once Kevin graduated, new night stands were one of the first things I wanted to get. You can hardly see the old night stand in the before picture, but you get the point. I just painted the table brown, because I thought to myself, if this doesn't turnout I can just put the table cloth right back over it. The lamp was just plain and had a light wood base. I decided to paint that pink and sew on the buttons. CUTE.

Crib Bedding

2009-02-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

I don't use a bumper so I didn't have to worry about making that. Although I do need a red sheet for his bed now, or black would be cute too.

This is an up close of the bed skirt

Bed skirt and blanket

Altogether, and yes he was napping.

Back of the blanket

Ta Da! The blanket!

Painted Picture Frame

2009-02-10T22:02:00.000-08:00

This one was a last minute gift. It was Kevin's 25th birthday. I know that Kevin really loves my art work, so I decided to do something for him. I wanted the pictures to be black and white, but someday I can easily fix that. I used water colors and simply took the paper from the glass frame painted and viola!

Sling Sling!

2009-02-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

This is the first thing I have ever sewn without any help at all. I was sooooooooooo excited and proud. It's 5 yards of fabric wide (two 2 1/2's) and about 20 inches long. Really really easy. You should use a stretchy fabric like rayon. Now, the magic is, how do you tie a baby onto yourself. If you need to know that leave a comment and I'll show you:)

Breakfast Quesadillas

2009-02-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

These are totally yummy, and very healthy.
Ingredients:
Whole Wheat Tortillas
Baby Spinach leaves
1 tomatoe, cut
1 yellow onion, chopped
9 eggs
Lots of cheese
Black pepper

Mix all ingredients in a bowl, minus the cheese, scramble away. When your eggs are almost done set aside.

Place the ingredients into a whole wheat tortilla on a hot pan, sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Fold over and grill.

I enjoy them with fat free sour cream and salsa. Then you enjoy!

Rag Rug

2009-02-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

First off, Thanks Theresa for the scraps! I used to make these back in highschool and middle school, but seeing as how I now have more time, I thought I would give it a shot. You can use any fabric really, I normally go to a second hand store, buy at least two sheets (queen or king), cut out the corners and the edges off. Cut the strips into 1 3/4 inch or so. Tear into strips. Some sew the strips together I just make little cuts into the ends (am I making any sense at all??) Okay okay fold the end of the strip over and cut a little slit, that way when you unfold it you have a little hole. Pull the strip through itself, its not a knot. I'm not making any sense. Anyways! Then you crochet the rug using the largest hook you can, it's blue. If you really want to know how to link the strip together, just give me a call :)

Cork Boards

2009-01-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

These a super easy and super cute. The brown and pink one is one that my friend Kristen made for me. She used hot glue, fabric, and ribbon. I used remnant fabric (30 cents I think is what it cost me), and ribbon. I just used a stapler. Sadly, I don't know where you buy cork boards at, I am assuming target or something. Give it a try!

Photo Blocks

2009-01-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

I LOVE these. Here's what I did. Go to home depot, buy a 2 by 4 and cut the blocks into 5 by 5 inch squares. Sand them down. Paint them whatever color you would like, and then stamp (or write) whatever saying you would like on the blocks. Use mod podge to glue the pictures to the blocks. I used probably 5-10 layers of mod podge just to make sure they were on there well, and protected. I put scrap book paper in the bottoms. I ended up making ones that said "FAMILY", "E G S" (Emily Grace See), "LOVE", and "IN LOVE". So I definatley got my money's worth. You can also go to Michaels and buy the blocks ready to go, but they are much more expensive.