A place to BE HAPPY!...

Free Angry Birds Party Printables

2012-02-03T08:45:00.002-05:00

Super Bowl Spirit

2012-01-29T15:22:00.001-05:00

Made these for a cute little baby I know!! Super Bowl Spirit! Go Big Blue!

Washer Necklaces

2012-01-13T10:22:00.001-05:00

I tried my hand at making washer necklaces. I'm going to be giving a few of these sets for Valentine's Day. I used polka dot vinyl on a washer and a ribbon - super easy.

Owl Bookmarks

2012-01-11T09:23:00.002-05:00

Save the Hooters bookmarks!!!

Waaaay late Cookies for Santa Plate

2012-01-06T09:23:00.002-05:00

The holidays were hectic, so I am just getting around to posting my cookies for santa plate. I made the matching milk cup too.

Valentine's Day Soap Dispenser

2012-01-06T09:00:00.002-05:00

Here is a V-Day soap dispenser I made with vinyl on a "Lucky" brand soap bottle. I love the size of the bottle and it's only $1.00!!

Summer Vacation

2011-06-16T02:23:00.001-04:00

A Place to Be Happy is taking a Summer Vacation- after many years of blogging- it's time for a vacation!! Happy Summer!

More Father's Day Printables

2011-06-14T02:09:00.001-04:00

Love the colors of these adorable Father's Day printables - don't miss these!
find them here:
http://blog.catchmyparty.com/2011/05/23/free-fathers-day-printables-from-love-party-printables/

Free Father's Day Printable

2011-06-13T02:05:00.001-04:00

Need a cute Father's Day card? Check this out!
Find it here:
http://jannawilson.typepad.com/thewhimsyshoppe/2011/06/fathers-day-freebie-1.html

Donut Cookie Pops

2011-06-10T02:06:00.001-04:00

Couldn't resist another too-cute idea here. Cookies shaped like donuts and on a stick - does it get better than this. These would be so cute for a party, shower or any occasion!
get the direction here:
http://blog.dollhousebakeshoppe.com/2011/06/donut-cookies.html

Bert and Ernie snacks

2011-06-09T02:03:00.001-04:00

I'm way beyond the Bert and Ernie stage here, but these would be fun to make, for kids or kids-at-heart! And healthy too. Just had to share.
find it here:
http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/2011/06/ernie-and-bert-fruit-snack.html

DIY Sidewalk Chalk

2011-06-08T02:01:00.001-04:00

I saw this great DIY recipe for sidewalk chalk and couldn't resisit sharing. Lots o summer fun here!
get it here:
http://smashedpeasandcarrots.blogspot.com/2009/09/liquid-sidewalk-chalk.html

Black and White

2011-06-07T02:28:00.001-04:00

I've always wanted to know how to make these black and white cookies and here is the magic recipe from Family Circle:
http://www.familycircle.com/recipes/desserts/old-school-sweets/?page=2

Fathers Day Printable

2011-06-06T02:26:00.001-04:00

I thought this was such a clever idea - a Father's Day Printable for soda (or ummm beer) bottles. Get it here:
http://www.theidearoom.net/2011/05/fathers-day-soda-bottle-covers.html

Cupcake Toppers

2011-06-03T02:21:00.001-04:00

I'm thinking of summer and 4th of July already. Here is a set of cake toppers I made for a challenge on smartbuygal.com.

Guest Blogger!

2011-06-02T06:16:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone. It's Denise from paperpastime.com.
I was thrilled when Leslie asked me to be a guest on her blog.
I have been married to my wonderful husband for almost 24 years, and we have 3 amazing children, as well as an awesome daughter-in-law. We live in western NY, and have been in the same house for 20 years
I have been crafting and creating most of my life, and love all kinds of crafts, and enjoy trying new ones. Paper crafts and vinyl are my favorites at the moment. Boxes are a strange addiction for me, and I love to design them. Just recently, after much encouragement, I started to sell some of my files. This high heel shoe favor box is one of them.

Guest Blogger!

2011-06-01T02:36:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! I am thrilled to be guest blogging for you today on A Place to Be Happy. My name is Sabrina and I hail from the South – Georgia to be specific. I have lived here for the past sixteen years and I love it. I have been crafting heavily for just over a year. My interest runs from scrapbooking to cards, to vinyl, to glass etching, back to scrapbooking, etc. I really like a bit of it all, and am thankful for the opportunity to try new things all the time. The project I am going to share with you today is one I have been working on for a while. It is a music/poetry journal that I put together a journal for Iesha. She is the daughter of a dear friend and she is turning nineteen in a few weeks. This is going to be one of her father’s gifts to her. A little bit about Iesha - She's a pretty talented young woman who likes to write poetry and she also has a fantastic voice. This girl can sing! She also loves the color pink, flowers, and leopard skin. Whenever I am making something like this for someone else I try to incorporate at least a few elements that I know they will particularly like.

I used Cinch book boards to make this journal. It's a 8 1/2 x 11 book. I covered it with pink paper and then Announce cardstock by 7gypsies, using gloss Modge Podge for paper. I really like the particular shimmer the gloss modge podge leaves on a page. Iesha's name is spelled out using chipboard letters that I've had in my stash. I used hot glue to adhere the letters because I imagine this journal is going to get a bit of wear and tear and I wanted to make sure they would stay on the cover. The girl is cut from the Cricut Forever Young cartridge and the flowers and white flourish are also from my stash.

The inside of the front panel are the lyrics from the song "Dance with my Father" by Luther Vandross. This is Iesha's favorite song so I wanted to include it.

The next page is made up of card stock covered by a clear cardstock with a flourish design. I stitched them together with my Sew Easy and then added a frame at the top of the page for her father to include a small picture of her, again stitched to adhere it to the page. I found the frame in the Make the Cut gallery and was able to find some scraps that were big enough to use to cut it out. I printed the sentiment "Portrait of the Artist as as a Young Woman" on my computer and just cut it out in rectangles.

The next side of the frame page is something my friend wrote for his daughter. He also dabbles in poetry, and I thought it was important that he include something of himself in this gift to her. I added a few peace sign stickers that I picked up at Michael's recently. After this page, there are about 40 blank pages of white paper for Iesha to write, draw, or do whatever she chooses to do. There are about 40-45 blank pages in-between each of the pocket pages.

I wanted to include dividers for the journal and I wanted them to be useful so I decided to include pockets for Iesha to stash notes in. I created the pocket by welding a wave and a rectangle image from the Cricut Plantin Schoolbook cartridge with a treble clef I found on the Quarter Note cartridge. I used the treble clef's shadow image for welding, and cut out the regular image and in pink and placed it on top. I then stitched the pocket to the page and included three paper clips with cute sentiments on them. They are made by 7Gypsies and I love them.

The other side of the pocket divider is simple - just the word Create cut from the Home Decor cartridge, and another Jolee flower from my stash.

The next pocket page divider uses the same wave and rectangle but this one is welded to the shadow of a music note, also found on the Quarter Note cartridge. I placed a popsicle stick in the page so you could actually see the pocket. The paper clips are again made by 7gypsies.

Serendipity was cut from the Graphically Speaking cartridge. This is one of my all-time favorite cartridges. I almost always find something on that cartridge to use on a project this big.

This is the last pocket page divider. The microphone is also from Quarter Note. I welded the shadow to the pocket and cut the microphone out of white paper and then applied adhesive and Martha Stewart glitter. I think it looks pretty cute. One thing I forgot to mention is that I did include tabs on the side of the dividers - that way she can easily flip to the different section of the journal. There is more stitching around the pocket, and of course, more 7gypsies paper clips.

The other side of the pocket page is again something simple - "Explore" is cut from the Home Decor cartridge and accented by several different flowers from my stash.

The back of the journal uses the same paper from the first side, again with gloss Modge Podge. I cut the "journey" sentiment from Graphically Speaking out of chipboard three times, adhered them together with Modge Podge, and then adhered the same word cut in pink. I blinged it up a bit with some black gems. The mats are cut from the Storybook cartridge and the flourish is from Recollections.

Thanks so much for stopping by and I really hope you enjoyed this project. It was several weeks in the making and I am thrilled with the way it turned out. You can drop by to visit me anytime at www.sabrioletdesigns.blogspot.com. I want to thank Leslie again for giving me the opportunity to share my work with some new people. I hope you all have a fabulous day!

Sabrina

Guest Bloggers

2011-06-01T01:38:00.001-04:00

This week I will have several guest bloggers showing off their projects. I am thrilled to be able to showcase so much talent here. ENJOY!

Guest Blogger!

2011-05-31T02:39:00.001-04:00

Hi, my name is Michelle and I am guest blogging here on A Place to Be Happy. In my spare time I like to go to the lake and hang out friends and family. My craft of choice is cutting vinyl with my Expression and Sure Cuts A Lot. I love making files to share and inspire as I get so much inspiration from others, like Leslie!! Here is a project I recently did. I made a graduation banner for my niece. The font on “Congratulations Miranda” is LD Delightful and the rest of the words are Shelley Volante BT. You can download the graduation hat in SVG format here: http://www.box.net/shared/uv02xxehe6

You can find more projects and lots of SVGs if visit my blog at MichellesDigitalCreations.blogspot.com

Happy cutting!!

Courage, Honor, Remembrance

2011-05-29T10:29:00.000-04:00

MEMORIAL DAY 2011

Best Tips, Tricks and FAQ #5

2011-05-26T08:15:00.001-04:00

WHAT'S A GOOD PRICE FOR VINYL?
I've been asked a lot what is a good price for vinyl. You should not pay more than .50 a square foot for regular outdoor/craft vinyl (before shipping).

Rolls come in different sizes and widths, but calculate it per square foot so you can compare apples to apples.
To calculate:take width in inches x length in inches then divide by 144 to get the total square feet
so a 19" roll at 5 yards is 19 x 5 x 36(There are 5 yards and each yard is 36 inches) = 3420 divide by 144 this is 23.75 square feet - so you should pay $12.00 or less.

Also don't forget to add in shipping to get the real price, shipping prices vary and can add a lot.
Good luck and have fun!

Best Tips, Tricks and FAQ #4

2011-05-26T08:12:00.001-04:00

GLASS ETCHING DIRECTIONS

So many people have asked how to do glass etching, so here are some basic instructions:

materials needed:

glass item ( plate, glass, tumbler, jar)

Armour Etch creme

vinyl or contact paper

**Armour Etch can be purchased at Michaels and other craft stores, it is pricey, so make sure to use a coupon.

**I find great glass items at thrift stores and dollar stores. You will want to start your first project on an inexpensive item, since you may make a mistake on it. You can even practive on a pickle jar or old wine bottle.

**The best and easiest items to etch are perfectly vertical, like a tumbler glass (or pickle jar). Bulbous wine glasses and vases take more practice, in my opinion.

Here is a cut file with instructions on how to use it. The cut file is in the right hand column

Piece A: rectangle

Piece B: ring

Piece C: inner circle
Pieces D: letters

Choose either negative or positive images. Below the black represents the vinyl pieces and the white is the glass.

The top image uses pieces A & D

The bottom image uses pieces A & C

You get different results from each method.

(These are cut in Plantin, but can easily be recreated in other fonts and shapes)

After cutting, place the vinyl on the glass, make sure it is on where you want it and then press hard on each piece of vinyl making sure you have no bubbles. This is an important step.

I use a foam brush and put the AE (Armour Etch) on with a dabbing motion. You so not want any brush strokes. Make sure you use plenty of the AE - glob it on!

Set a timer for 5 minutes.

When it is done, I use my same foam brush and wipe off the AE into a small bathroom type paper cup. (Put this excess back into your bottle, it is fine to use again!)

When most of it is off, rinse the glass under water washing the rest off. (Make sure you don't have other glass dishes in your sink)

remove your vinyl stencil (you can use it again) and dry your item

Best Tricks, Tips, and FAQ #3

2011-05-25T08:10:00.001-04:00

SCAL2 Cut n Print

Thanks to all who participated in my Cut n Print tutorial. Here is the script and you can walk yourself through it if you want - have fun. Here are the images which were used with it...
You can just right click on the image and save it to your computer.

script here:

Best Tips, Tricks and FAQ #2

2011-05-24T08:06:00.002-04:00

HOW TO RE-STICK YOUR CUTTING MAT...

This is what I use to make my Cricut mats sticky again....It works great.

This is "Best Tricks, Tips, and FAQ" week

2011-05-23T08:00:00.003-04:00

I am going back through my almost 3 years of blogging to revive some of the best tricks, tips and sooo many of the frequently asked questions I get...

FAUX GLASS ETCHING

I've has the glass etching vinyl around and finally decided to work with it. it cuts just like regular vinyl and goes on with transfer tape just like normal. It looks like frosted glass, but it isn't - it's vinyl. It's faster, cheaper, and much easier. (and removable) - and dishwasher safe.

There is a certain charm to the glass etched item, and even though I've had lots of success with it, I always have a pit in my stomach when I wash the creme off wondering if I had any bleed through of the design and if the vinyl stencil held well.

Also, sometimes the etching just doesn't show up so well after all of that work. I've wanted to add an etch design to my front door storm window, but wouldn't dare try the real etching, I'll just use the glass etch vinyl.

Just like regular etching, the pics don't show very well - they look like silver vinyl, but the real item is a real white frosty look. My husband couldn't tell the difference between a real etched item and my glass etched vinyl item.

Gift Basket day 5

2011-05-20T10:13:00.001-04:00

I had posted this bucket earlier, but here is the bucket all wrapped up.

Gift basket day 4

2011-05-19T02:08:00.001-04:00

Made the shirt, waterbottle, and container.

Gift Basket day 3

2011-05-18T02:08:00.001-04:00

I made the shirt, bottle and container

Vinyl Sale- Hooray

2011-05-17T13:50:00.002-04:00

Love my projects and want to get some vinyl for yourself? H&H sign supply is having a one day sale on Friday, May 20th

On Friday, May 20 enter coupon code FBFRI to receive 10% off your order. "We are calling this facebook Friday. This is a small way to show our appreciation to our customers and fb fans. Your order must be placed online to receive the discount.

Use this LINK to get there.

Gift basket day 2

2011-05-17T02:06:00.001-04:00

More gift baskets, I made the shirts, pails and waterbottles.

Gift Baskets

2011-05-16T10:04:00.002-04:00

This week I will feature the gift baskets I have been feverishly helping to put together. I make the stuff and a friend of mine packages and sells it. I have spend so many hours on the stuff. Hope you enjoy a weeks worth of gifts.

Shrink Plastic...It's not just for kids anymore

2011-05-15T02:05:00.001-04:00

Remember the Shrinky Dinks and how you used to put them in the oven and watch the magic happen. Now it's a full fledged craft! Check out this video - it is really cool.
http://rangerink.com/artaveapril2.htm

Beverage Dispenser

2011-05-11T02:32:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited about my new beverage dispenser. It's a 2.2 gallon, BPA free plastic container with spout. I can't wait to use it at our next gathering. It's much bigger than it looks!

Summer Flip Flop Shirt

2011-05-10T02:47:00.001-04:00

Have made quite a few t shirts for orders - here is one that will put you in a summery mood!

Peace.Love!

2011-05-09T07:50:00.001-04:00

Here are a few Peace.Love shirts I made. Simple but cute.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T02:53:00.001-04:00

Happy Mothers Day to all the Moms out there!!!

Another yellow tote

2011-05-06T02:50:00.001-04:00

Yes, this yellow tote was just screaming for a Batman logo. It worked great as a Batman gift tote with lots of Batman goodies inside!

Just a baseball T

2011-05-05T02:47:00.001-04:00

I made this for my nephew for his 3rd birthday. For those who don't know it is the Tampa Bay Rays logo and then I put his name and the number 3 on the back. All the pieces actually fit together I was amazed...

Who lives in a pineapple...

2011-05-04T02:46:00.001-04:00

It's a Spongebob bucket. I made this for a gift and it got filled with lots of SPongebob goodies. I think the square yellow tote was just perfect! It was fun doing all of the vinyl layers!

Well-Behaved Women

2011-05-03T01:44:00.001-04:00

I made this shirt for myself and then my friend just HAD to have one too, so I made her one. I'm thinking a tile with this saying is in my future!

Its all about the SNAP,CRACKLE & POP

2011-05-02T08:30:00.003-04:00

I saw this and knew it was totally blog-worthy! I love this idea and I am going to make one for my sons party in a few weeks (boy colors of course!). We have a few kids with egg allergies, so regular cakes are out of the question, but this is egg free! What a great idea...Find it here:
http://www.donnahay.com.au/recipes/kids/party-cakes/rice-crackle-cake

Water Bottles

2011-04-29T02:03:00.001-04:00

More items for the gift basket business...Seems like a good deal for me. I make it, she markets it and sells it! I made about 30 waterbottles for her gift baskets!

Perry the Platypus Twinkies

2011-04-28T02:01:00.001-04:00

My son loves Phineas and Ferb and he can't wait to make these! find it here:

http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/2011/03/perry-platypus-twinkies.html

T shirt mania

2011-04-27T02:01:00.001-04:00

I have been working with a local lady who has a gift basket business. I have been making and selling her t shirts to put in her baskets. I made 21 t shirts this weekend!

Science Fair

2011-04-26T02:00:00.001-04:00

My son used vinyl and the cricut to make his science fair project. He did all of the vinyling himself!

Happy Easter to all!

2011-04-24T02:12:00.001-04:00

Easter subway art

2011-04-22T02:11:00.001-04:00

Hop on over and get this free printable. Pop it right into a frame and your Easter company will think you are so clever!!
http://247moms.blogspot.com/2011/04/easter-subway-art-free-printable.html

Easter table decorations

2011-04-21T02:08:00.001-04:00

Here is a really cute idea for a table decoration. Find it here:
http://www.bhg.com/crafts/kids/rainy-day/flower-power-candy-cups/

Easter Morning goodies

2011-04-20T02:58:00.001-04:00

Here is a great recipe sure to please everyone on Easter morning:
SEMI-HOMEMADE DOUGHNUTS

It's so easy and you won't believe how delicoius they are...
Use store bought refrigerated biscuits. Not the flaky kind just the regular small store brand cheapest ones you can get about .69 per tube for 10.
Take each biscuit and make a hole in the middle with your fingers and stretch the hole to about a nickel size. Then drop in oil at 350-360 degrees. Fry about 3 minutes on each side until light brown. Then top with cinnamon sugar, powered sugar, sugar glaze, canned frosting, chocolate syrup, anything. Eat them warm!

Easter cards

2011-04-19T02:56:00.001-04:00

Here are a few of the Easter cards I whipped up this weekend.

It's Easter Week here...

2011-04-18T08:53:00.002-04:00

I have a great week of Easter ideas, projects, and FUN. It starts here.

Put Kool Aid on your shopping list this week. Not to drink, to dye your Easter Eggs. It makes your kitchen smell yummy too. And you can lick your fingers clean. Here is some information on doing it.
http://gingerbreadsnowflakes.com/node/158

DIY Scratch off "Lottery" tickets

2011-04-15T02:24:00.001-04:00

This is an oldy but goodie. I had these directions bookmarked and thought these would make lots of fun at a party. Find it here:
http://artmind-etcetera.blogspot.com/2009/05/how-to-make-scratch-off-lottery-tickets.html

Baja Fresh Coupon

2011-04-14T02:46:00.001-04:00

I just had to share this with my fellow bloggers here - a Baja Fresh coupon for $2.00 for one of their Baja Bowls (normally $6.00). You can print as many times as you want . It says one per person. Make it a weekend lunch out! (SOrry nothing crafty here today - but this is just such a great deal!!)
link is here:
http://www.bajafresh.com/baja-fresh-undercover-boss/pdf/Baja_Coupon_Print_0408.pdf

Scuba Diver Eggs

2011-04-13T02:44:00.001-04:00

Ok,these are just "egg-cellent". The "facemask" is a waterbottle cap, the band is a rubber band and the "breathing tube" is a bendy straw. Soooooo cute. I found this idea on FamilyFun.go.com

Egg Face Decorations

2011-04-12T02:12:00.000-04:00

I saw this free printable and immediately thought these would be really cute on Easter Eggs. make a few eyes and then add one of these cute printables for an instant silly face!
the printable is here:
http://blog.catchmyparty.com/2011/03/08/free-photo-booth-prop-printables-from-the-paper-dolls-shoppe/

Easter Animal Silhouettes

2011-04-08T11:04:00.004-04:00

Here are some Easter silhouette animals. Great for cutting or printing for cards or home decor. Click on the top row and/or the bottom row, then right click and save. Enjoy!!

Bunny Cupcakes

2011-04-07T02:21:00.001-04:00

These ADORABLE cupcakes gave me a great idea of how to adapt these with what I had on hand. The ears could be made with NutterButter cookies or Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies too. Find it here:
http://sweetsugarbelle.blogspot.com/2011/03/bunny-ear-cupcake-toppers.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheSweetAdventuresOfSugarbelle+%28The+Sweet+Adventures+of+Sugarbelle%29

Viking T shirt

2011-04-06T02:10:00.001-04:00

My son is having a "viking" birthday party and he wanted to make a shirt to start getting ready!

Campaign shirts

2011-04-05T02:08:00.001-04:00

I made these shirts for a friend who is running for local office. She wanted shirts for a few kids who will be helping her campaign. I thought the peace sign was cute for the girls! Since I got my heat press, making t shirts is just a breeze!

Easter decor

2011-04-04T02:06:00.001-04:00

I made this Easter decor by covering a photo box with paper and adding buttons and a ribbon. Plain and simple. Hope you like it!

Easter Sundae

2011-04-01T02:58:00.001-04:00

What a cute and clever idea for the Easter table - the kids will love the Easter Sundae on Easter Sunday!

find it here:
http://ediblecraftsonline.com/candy_bouquets/cb7/index.htm

Peace tumbler!

2011-03-31T02:31:00.001-04:00

I made a tumbler with this Peace logo and peace symbols and polka dots. The Peace svgs are available in my "peace, Love and Be Happy" set here:
http://www.smartbuygal.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=3954

Some cards with stickers

2011-03-30T02:29:00.002-04:00

I decided to use up some of the puffy stickers I had on hand and made up some cards - I thought they came out cute!

Big Order

2011-03-29T02:28:00.001-04:00

I finished up 80 candy cannisters last week - pretty simple - just a paw print vinyl decal!

Crab Apples

2011-03-28T08:23:00.003-04:00

We love to make food crafts here and knew we had to make the "crabby" apples. They look like Mr. Crabs from Spongebob. The kids had fun making them. We got the inspiration from here

Easter Fonts and Dingbats

2011-03-25T02:48:00.001-04:00

Looking for some Easter fonts and dingbats, here are some good places to start:

http://www.fontspace.com/category/Easter

http://www.dafont.com/theme.php?cat=802

http://www.fontriver.com/holiday/easter/

Phineas and Ferb Cake

2011-03-24T02:55:00.001-04:00

My son loves everything Phineas and Pherb - we spotted these cakes and thought they were just great. We will make an attempt at making these ourselves.

If you don't know who Phineas and Pherb are, I included clip art of them, so you can see the likeness!

Find it here:
http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/2011/03/pheneas-and-ferb-cakes.html

The great computer crash

2011-03-23T08:05:00.001-04:00

It has been over a week since I have had my computer - my hard drive crashed and what a bummer. I have to reinstall all of my programs - I mean really, this is just horrible. I have not been able to do much crafting, so it might be a few days until I can post any new crafting creations. I am looking forward to getting everything up and going again.

Cupcake stands

2011-03-23T02:18:00.001-04:00

Oh my, these are really cute and even something you could get your kids to help you make - maybe a rainy day project. Doesn't a cupcake look soooo much better on this cute little stand??!!

Find it here:
http://tomkatstudio.blogspot.com/2011/01/cupcake-monday-mini-cupcake-stand.html

Fruit Stickers

2011-03-22T02:26:00.002-04:00

I loved this idea so much and thought it was just incredibly creative. I know several people who can't eat sweets they would just love one of these fruit greetings. Print your own at home- the free printable is here...Check them all out (orange, pear, apple and more)! I know this is a "valentines" idea, but thought it would be cute for any day!
find it here:
http://www.twigandthistle.com/blog/2011/01/naturally-sweet-diy-valentine/

OREO Cookies n Cream Cheesecakes

2011-03-21T02:02:00.001-04:00

I think these are on my list of goodies to make. My son loves anything Oreo -
You can find it here:
http://gimmesomeoven.com/oreo-cookies-cream-cheesecakes/

Tumbler with matching coaster

2011-03-18T02:04:00.001-04:00

Since I love yellow centered daisies so much, I decided to make my tumbler with a monogram and daisies and I had to make a matching coaster too!

Who is St. Patrick?

2011-03-17T02:02:00.001-04:00

Who is St. Patrick?

People all over the world celebrate on the 17th day of March in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Some cities have parades, most revelers wear green, and a few families commemorate the day with traditional Irish fare for their meal. However, not everyone may know who St. Patrick is.
Born in Britain during the 4th century, St. Patrick was kidnapped and enslaved by Irish raiders when he was a teenager. Although he was able to escape after six years and become a priest in Britain, he later chose to return to Ireland as a missionary, in order to help spread the teachings of Christianity to pagans. According to Irish folklore, he also used a shamrock to explain the Christian concept of Trinity to the Irish. In spite of continuous opposition from pagan leaders, he continued to evangelize for thirty years while baptizing newly converted Christians and establishing monasteries, churches, and schools. He died on March 17th and was canonized by the local church.

St. Patrick's Day was first publicly celebrated in Boston in 1737 where a large population of Irish immigrants resided. Nearly 200 years later, the first St. Patrick's Day parade in the Irish Free State was held in Dublin in 1931. During the mid 90's, the Irish government also began a campaign to promote tourism in Ireland on March 17th.

While many Catholics still quietly celebrate this day of religious observance by going to mass, St. Patrick's Day slowly evolved to become a celebration of Irish heritage. Through the years, along with legendary shamrocks, many symbols were included in festivities that are reflective of Ireland's folklore, culture, and national identity (think leprechauns, ethnic cuisine, and wearing green).Other places that join in on this celebration include Japan, New Zealand, Argentina, and Canada, along with many cities across the United States.

(from FamilyFun.com)

Button Clock

2011-03-16T02:53:00.001-04:00

I'm not a clock maker, or a hand craft person, but I just loved this clock - I think the buttons are just perfect. I can see lots of application of this design. I might just have to try me a button clock!
You can find it here:
http://lamdesigns.tumblr.com/post/1275298298/its-been-a-while-but-i-actually-made-something

Apron

2011-03-15T02:47:00.001-04:00

I have had this apron around for a while and just decided on the design - a simple monogram and bow. I used Siser HTV and my NEW heat press! I thought these would make great Mother's Day gifts!

Coasters

2011-03-14T02:45:00.001-04:00

I was able to find these mouse-pad like coasters at Dollar Tree. (They came in packages 6 for $1.00) They came in multiple colors. I used my HTV on them and they came out great. These would make great gifts huh?!

Irish Soda Bread

2011-03-11T02:17:00.001-05:00

Ilove making irish Soda Bread this time of year. This recipe is a WINNER:
Irish Soda Bread

3 1/2 cups flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
3/4 stick melted butter
1 cup raisins
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp baking powder
caraway seeds (optional)

Put all dry ingredients in a bowl including sugar and raisins, make a well and put in buttermilk and melted butter. Mix only until dry ingredients are incorporated. Split into 2 balls. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake @ 350 50-60 minutes.

I add turbinado (cane sugar) on the top before baking I have also added cranberries and pecans instead of the raisins I do not use caraway seeds because it is more kid-friendly.

Shamrock Shake

2011-03-10T07:14:00.002-05:00

Just checkin in to remind you it's time for the Shamrock Shake at McD's...don't miss it.
more info here:
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/popcandy/post/2011/02/reminder-its-shamrock-shake-time-again/1

Saint Patricks Day Printables

2011-03-09T02:26:00.001-05:00

Found these cute St. Pat's printables.
Get them here:
http://lizardnladybug.blogspot.com/2011/02/st-patricks-day-freebies.html

Mini Hamburgers?

2011-03-08T07:24:00.002-05:00

Here is what my son and a freind made a few days ago - mini "hamburgers". I've seen these several places on the web and I had the items on hand.

They are made from:
vanilla wafers (like Nilla Wafers) for the bun
fruit roll ups yellow and red for the tomato and cheese
mint patty (like York Peppermint pattie) for the burger
coconut with green food coloring for the lettuce
real sesame seeds
a small amount of caramel sauce on top of the bun so the seeds stick

Vintage Apothecary Jar Labels

2011-03-07T07:34:00.003-05:00

Ok, take one of those jars you have been saving and make it into a piece of art with these free printable vintage apothecary jar labels. You can often find colored jars at flea markets and garage sales too. I think these fall under the category of "cool".

Get the printable here:
http://eatdrinkchic.com/post.cfm/vintage-apothecary-bottles-free-labels

Ebay again

2011-03-07T07:19:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to take a look at my great Ebay listings!
http://shop.ebay.com/flycorey/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=50&_sop=1

CREATIVITY

2011-03-04T03:23:00.001-05:00

I love this free printable...I have it hanging in my office!
get it here:
http://printable.tipjunkie.com/creativity-print-free-stuff/

Blank tin sampler set for sale

2011-03-03T13:44:00.003-05:00

I have a blank tin sampler set for sale. These mini tins are great for decorating. Use stickers, vinyl, glues, fabric and more. Use for kids crafts. They make great gifts. Details are here:

Lucky Charms Cupcakes

2011-03-03T02:17:00.001-05:00

Well aren't these the cutest...And a clever idea. Kids of any age would love these!
find them here:
http://www.thepartyanimal-blog.org/lucky-charms-cupcakes-free-printables/

Onsies for my neice

2011-03-01T02:16:00.001-05:00

Here are just a few onsies I put together for my new neice. Used the Siser easy weed heat transfer vinyl.

Rainbow owl Printable

2011-02-28T03:15:00.001-05:00

http://printable.tipjunkie.com/rainbow-owl-notes/
Found this cute printable and just had to share . I love the owl motif!!

12 months of subway art

2011-02-26T10:27:00.003-05:00

Here is a preview of my original 12 months of subway art I created:
You can see the whole collection here (also details on buying it)
http://www.smartbuygal.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5658

Flying pigs...

2011-02-25T02:53:00.001-05:00

I just thought this was a cute collection of flying pigs...Enjoy!

Cookie or Cupcake, I can't decide...

2011-02-24T02:13:00.001-05:00

If your kids (or you) can't decide between a cookie or a cupcake , make this delicious duo! Oh yeah! A dynamic duo.

Find it here: http://confessionsofacookbookqueen.blogspot.com/2011/01/cookie-cake-cupcakes.html

Big Brother Shirt

2011-02-23T02:09:00.001-05:00

I made a new shirt for my nephew. Wanted something "cool". I put his name on the back. I used the Siser Easy Weed heat transfer vinyl.

Polka Dot Printable

2011-02-22T02:28:00.001-05:00

I love polka dots and these are especially CUTE. A free printable polka dot gift tag. I'll be printing these on my sticky paper for a quick tag to have on hand!

Get it here:

http://goodgravydesigns.blogspot.com/2010/06/free-printable-diy-bright-polka-dot.html

Ice Buckets

2011-02-21T02:54:00.001-05:00

I found a few of these clear ice buckets and have had fun working with vinyl designs on them. The rainbow dot one has white dry erase vinyl on the front so you can change and personalize it for any event!

Check this out!

2011-02-19T20:17:00.002-05:00

I have some great items selling on EBAY!
http://shop.ebay.com/flycorey/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=50&_sop=1

Oreos and Brownies

2011-02-18T02:33:00.001-05:00

Oh my gosh, can you believe this. Brownie covered oreos, do you think I need to make these like, NOW...ok, I'll finish this post and then make these...
Find it here:

http://goodgravydesigns.blogspot.com/2011/02/brownies-oreos-heaven.html

Mini Mint tins

2011-02-17T02:12:00.001-05:00

I found these blank Altoid type hinged tins and had fun decorating them with vinyl designs!

Dry Erase Vinyl at Michaels

2011-02-16T02:37:00.001-05:00

Looking for dry erase vinyl - check your local Michaels. I found this roll for $4.99 (then I used a 50% off coupon for $2.50). It is 14 x 59 inches or 5.7 square feet. This is about .44 a square foot - great price!!

Train Crossing sign

2011-02-16T02:20:00.001-05:00

I saw this project and thought it would be so easy to make with vinyl. My son is a little old for this, but so cute for those with little boys!

Find it here:
http://inkblotsandpolkadots.blogspot.com/2011/02/boys-train-themed-bedroom.html

First Place!

2011-02-15T02:29:00.001-05:00

I have to brag on my son. He won FIRST place in the Pinewood Derby for his Cub Scout Pack. (and he set a track record for the fastest car). The theme of this derby was "cartoons", so he chose to do Diary of a Wimpy Kid. We used vinyl to put the design on.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T02:37:00.001-05:00

Hope you have a really sweet day!