Terry Ricioli Designs

CHA Winter 2012

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!
I'm back from sunny SoCal and the Winter CHA show. As usual, it was an overwhelming and amazing feast of all things crafty. I'll be sharing a little of what I saw in my blog this month. And, as you hop around the Designer Craft Connection blog ring, you will be able to see more of the show from other designers' perspectives.

As I walked the show, I happened upon one of my own crafts. I was totally surprised to see it up on the big screen at the FloraCraft(R) booth, and with a few tries, I was able to take photos of the video on screen. My little frog has made it to the big time!!

Here is Kathie Stull putting the legs on the frog.

And, here it is finished. The complete instructions for my frog can be found on Hands On Crafts for Kids, which is a wonderful site for kids' crafts of all kinds.

Come back next time to see the celebrity that I saw at a yarn fashion show!

Happy Crafting!

Terry

Crafting for a Cure

2012-01-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!

January is a very busy month! First, there are tax forms to be prepared (not so much fun). Then, there is the Craft and Hobby show to get ready for (much more fun)! I get to spend a few days viewing new craft products, attending business seminars, networking with other designers and wearing professional clothes (no sweats!). I'll have a table-top display at the Designer Showcase where I present what I can do and have done for the craft industry. It's always an exciting and stressful time of year, but the hardest part is getting it all into the suitcase!

This year the theme for the CHA show is "The Power of Creative Community - Build Locally, Drive Socially". It's all about giving back and sharing your time and talents to create a better world. In the center of the show floor will be a Community Park with a Giving Tree hung with ornaments donated by designers to a group of charities for use in their good works. I created an ornament for Crafting for a Cure. This charity, which was started in Canada, works to donate craft kits to hospitals. These kits provide a creative outlet and distraction when children need a hospital stay. Anything involving kids and crafts is right up my alley, so I am very happy to help them out.

To see a list of the charities involved in this year's show, go to Charity Wings and vote for your favorite charity. The winning charity will receive a donation from Charity Wings.

Here's the Renaissance Rose Ornament I created for the Giving Tree. It's a mixed media ornament using a tag board base, which is painted and antiqued. Then, I added filigree and beads for a vintage look.

I'll be taking photos this year of the show, so look for those the first Monday in February!
Until then, Happy Crafting!
Terry

Vintage Impressions Jewelry

2012-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Last spring I submitted a jewelry book proposal. It was in a niche that I thought needed to be filled, and one that I felt suited my design bent and style. I've always been drawn to the vintage look. The publisher and its editors agreed and I got the go-ahead to work on it, which I did for most of the summer. I designed and refined. Then, I worked with the editors to further enhance, elaborate and eliminate until the book was complete. It was quite a process and this is the first book of this size (64 pages) that I have designed. So, I'm pleased and excited to announce the release of my new book!

It's just been released on the website. I don't even have a copy yet, but when I do I hope to have a give-away of the book. I hope you'll stop back by for that!

And, Monday, the 9th will be our Designer Crafts Connection blog hop. The topic is journaling and I'm sure there will be lots of wonderful projects and ideas to start your year off right!

Happy Crafting!

Terry

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T14:59:00.000-08:00

As we end the year, I want to wish all my crafting and designing friends a year of joyful creativity in 2012!

Cheers!
Terry

Christmas Card Stockings

2011-12-16T10:09:00.000-08:00

Hello Crafters!

I love kids' crafts and every month I have a group over at my house putting together something fun. Since this group ranges in ages from about four to thirteen, I try to have a fairly simple craft that the younger ones can make and the older kids can adapt. They always amaze me with their creativity and they take a little inspiration and run with it!

This craft is a simple one. I am always looking for a way to use the beautiful cards that we get for Christmas, and this is another way to recycle your cards.

This craft uses the front of a card cut in a simple stocking shape. You can draw your own keeping it about the size of a card or you can use a cookie cutter. Cut a back for the stocking using another card, cardstock or construction paper. Glue them together, punch a hole for hanging and add some yarn or thread to the hole. They are super quick and very easy.

To add more decorations, use the borders and message inside the cards. Add sequins, stickers, stuffing or any leftover trims. Vary the shape by using any large cookie cutter. We made puffy star-shaped ornaments also and stuffed them with a bit of polyester stuffing.

Here are a few that I made (they are addictive!). You can fill them with a few candies, a gift card or small gifts. Of course, this craft is great for crafters of all ages!

Here is the front and back of one.

Happy Crafting, Everyone!

I hope crafting brings you joy!

All the best of this Holy Season,

Merry Christmas!

Terry

PS. This craft is featured on FaveCrafts December blog hop!

Sock Monkey Blog Hop

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!

This month we're monkey-ing around on the Designer Crafts Blog Connection! When Creativity Knocks is our sponsor and kindly donated their fun video, Sock Monkeys Go BanAnas, that teaches how to make your very own sock monkey. Ana and Megan Araujo are a great team and you'll be chuckling as you watch the video and learn new tips and tricks to construct a monkey and dress it in cute outfits. I haven't made a soft sculpture animal since my kids were little, so I appreciated the tips.

I decided to embroider the eyes instead of using buttons since this monkey will be going home with my almost two-year old granddaughter. I made her a very simple dress (two squares gathered on ribbon) that ties at the shoulders and constructed a bow of the same fabric. Later, I hope to make that cute little sweater that is found on the video.

Here she is:

I'm quite fond of her already and I'm having a hard time letting her go. I hope my granddaughter will let me visit!
Our other sponsors for this hop are Fox River who donated the socks we used,

Judikins who donated a very cute Sock Money Rubber Stamp that some of us used,

and Rit who donated dye for us to use.

Thanks to all our sponsors, but especially

who is also sponsoring a contest on their website where you'll find instructions on how to enter their giveaway.
Happy Crafting and Happy Holidays!
All the best,
Terry

Flip-Pal Mobile Scanner

2011-11-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!

Wait until you see my new crafty toy! It's the Flip-Pal Mobile Scanner, and it's so much fun! I have only begun to explore the possibilities of this new gadget, but, so far, I am very impressed. It's a very versatile product and I am looking forward to using it to create lots of different kinds of craft projects.

One of the things that it can do is scan in your old photos for preservation, sharing with other members of the family, or for use in projects. Even if you don't want to remove them from old albums or you can't because they have been glued to the page or the photo is too fragile, the Flip-Pal can scan them. It has a removable lid that makes it easy to scan the photos in place in the album.

The photo that I'm using today is a picture of my grandmother as a young woman. I'm just enchanted with the sweetness of her leaning her chin on her glove. It's a photo that I've wanted to memorialize in some way, and this is the perfect oppurtunity.

The process is very simple. First, I scanned the photo and uploaded it to my computer.

Then, I printed it out. I am using a watch body from Stanislaus Imports to hold the photo.

This watch was a very shiny silver, so I antiqued it with some Rub 'n Buff(R). The color is Autumn Gold, and it gave the silver a pinkish, coppery sheen.

Next, I used the back of the watch body to cut a circle around the head in the photo and sized it to fit in the back. To protect the photo from glue discoloration, I wrapped the photo circle front and back in packing tape. Then, I trimmed it to fit.

I glued the photo in the back and glued the back to the front using jewelry glue. I attached a large lobster clasp, chain and some dangles that pick up the color of the watch.
Here's the finished project:

Here's the watch with the lid open:

This will be the first of many projects in which I will use the Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner . I can't wait to take it on Thanksgiving vacation with me so I can pick up a few more photos at my Mom's house. It will be so easy to scan them into the Flip-Pal.

Note: I received the Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner in return for making a project and blogging about the project and all opinions are my own.

**************************BREAKING CRAFTY NEWS*****************************

Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner presents the “Scan & Share” Blog Hop Challenge!

Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner has partnered with the Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop to offer the “Scan & Share” Blog Hop Challenge!

Designers created projects with the Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner and now you have a chance to join in and share your creative ideas.

To follow the “Scan & Share” Blog Hop and see our ideas and projects, click on The Designers Craft Connection Blog Hop blue button. To submit your “Scan & Share” ideas, click here.

The blog hop follower and participating “Scan & Share” Blog Hop designer who creates the most creative and productive ideas using a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner will each win a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner.

Or, if you've already decided that you want to own your own Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner, order through their website and use this coupon code for 10% off: SSBH2011.

Happy crafting!
Terry

Coffee Filter Turkey

2011-11-07T00:30:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!
It's the first Monday of the month again and time for our Designer Crafts Connection! How did that happen? October went by in a flash! Let's hope that November and December are a little slower!

Since it's November, my thoughts turn to turkey...and pumpkin pie and sweet pototoes and stuffing. But, back to that turkey. This Coffee Filter Turkey is the perfect craft for the little ones to make up for the table decorations. It's quick and adaptable. My kids' craft group tested it out and I modified the design, so I will show you a couple of ways to do it.

Gather your materials: Coffee filters (the natural brown type), two Styrofoam(TM) balls in 1" and 3" sizes, watercolor paints and a brush, a cup of water, glue, a bit of yellow or orange felt for the beak, red yarn or felt for the wattle, a toothpick and two wiggle eyes.

Paint the edges of four of the filters. I chose yellow, orange, red and brown, but, of course, you can work with any colors you like. Turkeys actually have lots of interesting colors in their feathers.

For the tail, fold two of the painted filters in half and slide one inside the other, like this:

Cut another painted filter in half. Fold each half in quarters and fold the tips down along the line of the ruffles of the filter. These will be the wings.

Wrap the last painted filter around the small Styrofoam ball. This will be the head.

Wrap the last coffee filter around the 3" Styrofoam(TM) ball and glue the edges down like this:

This will be the body of the turkey. The open area will be glued against the tail. Before you glue it to the tail, press the ball down on the table to give it a flat spot so that it will stand up. Now, glue the body to the tail. Press the head ruffles to one side and push half a toothpick into the bottom of the head. Add glue to the toothpick and press it into the body. Glue the flat part of the wings to the body behind the head ruffles.

Next cut the beak and wattle and glue the face onto the head. This is how mine looks:

Of course, you can adapt this pattern to your ideas. Add more paint, trim or move the wings, add a little sign for a name tag or add some feet!

Here's one more variation that I made before I decided to use the Styrofoam balls. In this one, I used polyester stuffing. It is a little more difficult to handle. We ended up getting out the masking tape for the kids. It was so springy! But, other than that, it's a good alternative. You could also use balls of recycled paper for the body and head.

Happy crafting!

Terry

PS I'm blogging more than usual this month, so stop in again next Tuesday on the 15th and see my new gadget - the Flip-Pal(TM). And, of course, continue clicking though to see what other fun ideas on on the Designer Crafts Connection ring.

Gifts and Goodies

2011-11-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Holiday Shoppers!
For those of you in the Sonoma County, California, area, come visit me at the Gifts and Goodies holiday bazaar. I'll have some of my handmade jewelry for sale at great prices. Here are just a few of the baubles that I'll have available. Deck yourself out for the holidays or get started on your gift shopping!

There will be lots of goodies from a variety of vendors like Avon, Pampered Chef and Scentsy as well as handmade items. And, there will be a raffle with prizes from each of the vendors.

We'll be at University of Sports in Rohnert Park at 555 Rohnert Park Expressway from 10 to 4 on Saturday, November 12.
See you there!
Terry

Feather Mask

2011-10-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
It's time for our first Monday of the month blog hop, and this month the theme is Halloween. As a kid, I loved dressing up for Halloween, so I decided to make a mask this month.

I started with a fabric-covered mask, some feathers and sequins. You'll also need some tacky glue and fabric paint.

I removed the elastic cord from the mask and painted the mask.

Then, I started to glue the feathers onto the mask starting in the center. I glued longer ones in the center and shorter ones along the sides.

Along the way, I decided to make a change. This happens frequently when I design! I thought the paint color wasn't bright and sparkly enough, so I painted over the first color. Much better! Then, I glued on some sequins and added some cord for ties.

Now, I'm ready for the ball. And, I've got lots of feathers left for earrings!

Take a look around the Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop this month; there's a lot going on! Several designers are participating in a Westcott(R) challenge and creating crafts with Velcro(R) and Duck Brand(R) tape. There's a giveaway from Westcott(R), so be sure to keep your eyes open for that!
Happy Crafting,
Terry

Baby Buggy

2011-09-05T00:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!
Today is the first Monday of the month, and it's time for the Designer Crafts Blog Connection. Our theme this month is "Party!", so you'll find crafts and designs for baby showers, birthdays and other kinds of celebrations. Just click on the Designer Crafts button to travel from blog to blog and load up with design inspiration!

Next week, I'm helping with the craft at a baby shower. We're going to be stamping designs on burp cloths. So, I thought I'd design a motif that I could use for that. This little Baby Buggy pattern is very easy to make and is very versatile. Everything you like in a pattern, right!

First: Draw a circle on a piece of paper to use for your pattern. Your circle size will depend on where you want to put the Baby Buggy. Will it be on a shirt, a burp cloth, a card, a banner, the tablecloth or a gift bag?

Here's my circle. It's about 4" in diameter.

Now, fold the circle in half and cut it along the fold line. Do the same for one of the halves of the circle. It should look like this.

You'll use the half and one quarter for your Baby Buggy pattern.

Then, I used the pattern to cut pieces of compressed sponge.

You can cut circles of sponge or use any round object to stamp the wheels. I found a spool in my sewing supplies that had just the look I wanted, so I used that for my wheels. For the handle, I cut a small piece of sponge freehand.

Here it is stamped on fabric.

But, as I said, it's a very versatile pattern, so I thought I'd try it with paper. I was going to use a dainty print from my scrapbooking paper, but I happened on my stash of recycled papers and decided to go with a more natural look. So, I cut the same pattern pieces from cardboard hot drink sleeves. Then, I cut circles for the wheels from a different sleeve. I glued them to a piece of parchment paper and added buttons with thread ties. I think I'll glue the parchment to a brown paper bag and add a raffia tie.

I can't wait to try a few more ideas with this pattern. I've got some scraps of adhesive-backed print fabric that would make an easy iron-on applique for a diaper bag. I'll add some lace and buttons for the wheels. Or, maybe I'll make a gift card with a smaller buggy. What would you make? I'd love to hear your ideas!

Hope you enjoy the pattern,
Happy Crafting,
Terry

A new start

2011-09-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!
September is a wonderful month. To me, it's a new beginning month, perhaps even more so than January. (I was a nerdy child who looked forward to school every year!) And, being in between projects, I need a new start for my craft room/office. In fact, I need to find my craft room! Walking into it makes me want to turn around and walk right out. And, I certainly don't want to invite anyone into it!

I've been working on a book for the last three months (more about that when I can share!), so there are the remains of designs and boxes of craft materials littering the floor. But, more than the mess, there's a lack of unity in the space. It needs some color or theme to tie it all together.

So, I'm looking for ideas. What have you done with your craft room/studio that you like? How have you organized your space? What tips do you have?

One thing I have decided (besides that I need to toss, recycle and donate a lot of stuff) is to paint a very, large dark brown cabinet. First of all it needs a coat of white, then I'll decide on a color. That ought to help the light in the room, too. This cabinet sits right in front of my table, so I think I'll add some kind of inspiration board so that I can pin up ideas and designs. So, that's what I'm doing this weekend--appropriate for Labor Day! Then, I can get back to crafting in my clean and organized room!
Have a great weekend!
Terry

Fall Issue of Stringing Magazine

2011-08-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

I love the colors of fall. Although, according to the color gurus, I am a "winter", I love to work in autumn's warm, golden colors. Some of my favorite necklaces and earrings are combinations of reddish oranges, golden browns and buttery yellows.

Here's one in shades of gold that I called "Amber Opulence". I really enjoyed working with the colors in this one. I usually don't name my pieces so extravagantly when I send them out for possible publication, but this one turned out so rich and lush-looking that I decided to go for it. Another thing that I like to do in my designing is combine textures and this necklace combines fire-polished AB glass beads, pearls and ribbed metal beads along with two different kinds of chain for a lot of interest and contrast.

The editors at Stringing put this necklace in their "technique focus" on forming wrapped loops. That could be because you have to make 82 of them for this necklace!

I hope you'll consider giving this necklace a try. It would work well in different colors of glass beads and pearls, and you could change the metal color as well. Use it as a jumping off point to create your own unique creation! And, if you don't like this necklace, this fall's Stringing issue has 69 other designs for you to try!

Happy beading!
Terry

Creative in the Kitchen

2011-07-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!
This month I'm putting down the pliers and the glue gun to feature something creative from my kitchen.

We love pasta in our family, and this recipe has become our summer staple. It features fresh tomatoes and basil from the garden, garlic (lots of garlic!), olives and a couple of jars of marinated artichoke hearts. It's super simple and delicious. You can vary it by adding some chicken, sprinkling on your favorite cheese or tossing in some grilled veggies. The only cooking is boiling the spaghetti, all the rest is just chopping. If you don't like the strong taste of raw garlic and herbs, saute' them for a few minutes in olive oil. So, here it is -our fresh Summer Spaghetti- Pasta Estate'! Enjoy!

For those of you who want more of a recipe:
1 pound of thin spaghetti, boiled al dente'
Olive oil
Can of olives, drained and sliced
Chopped fresh tomatoes, 2-3
Fresh basil, chopped
Garlic, chopped, as much as you like!
2 small jars of marinated artichoke hearts

Chop all fresh ingredients and place in a large bowl. Add olives and artichoke hearts. Add olive oil for extra sauce. You can also add some of the pasta water for more sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix the ingredients.

Happy summer!
Terry

Fascinator Headband

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!
Welcome to another round in the Designer Crafts Connection blog hop! Today some of us are showcasing designs using a new product: Tulip's Beads in a Bottle. This product was easy to use and I'm sure you'll find a lot of great ideas as you travel from blog to blog. (Just click on that blue button!)

Here is what I created using this new paint. It's a Fascinator Headband. You might create it to wear for a wedding, a prom or any other dressy occasion.

Here's the top view.

And, here's the view from the side so that you can see the headband.

I used the Gemstone Pearl paint for this project. I applied the paint to tulle, the flower petals and lengths of ribbons. I wrapped a canvas-covered headband in green tulle, then hot-glued the pearl-painted tulle, ribbons, the leaf and the large fabric peony to the headband. Inside the peony, I glued another pearl-painted piece of green tulle.

You can find more information about this new product and sign up for a chance to win this great giveaway here.

Happy Summer Crafting!
Terry

Another 4th of July craft

2011-06-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

Looking for a craft with patriotic flare that the kids can make? Here's a red, white and blue ring toss game.

You can find it in the August 200l issue of Crafts 'n things. It might be just the thing to keep the kids occupied while they are waiting for the fireworks to start!

Happy Summer Crafting!

Denim Wall Pocket

2011-06-05T23:30:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!
Welcome to another round in the Craft Designer Blog Connection. This month we are showcasing patriotic designs. My Denim Wall Pocket is a great design for the Fourth of July or any patriotic celebration. It's easy to make and uses recyclable materials.

First, cut a pocket from an old pair of denim jeans. Leave about 1/2-inch all around the pocket. With a sharp pair of scissors poke and cut holes in the pocket if it doesn't have them. Use the point of the scissors to ravel the holes and the edges around the pocket.

Next, cut an 18-inch or longer piece of steel wire. I bought mine at the hardware store. It comes with an oily coating that you'll want to clean off with sandpaper and a damp paper towel before you work with it. After you clean it, make a few curls and wraps in it. Dab on some white acrylic paint. Poke a hole in each corner of the pocket and insert the wire ends. Curl the ends up with pliers to hold it in place.

Stamp a few stars on the pocket in white paint. I used a sponge star. Tie a piece of a handkerchief on the wire and add a raffia bow.

Easy, right! Of course, you can add more embellishing if you like. I think some spatter painting across the pocket would look nice. And, you can fill it with just about any decoration. I'm going to put a handful of daisies and a small flag in mine.

Happy crafting!

Silver Leaves Necklace

2011-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

Today is the posting day for the Designer Crafts Blog Connection, so I hope you'll travel around the blog-o-sphere and view all the new blog posts(no spacesuit needed!). There will be new ideas for Mother's Day, Father's Day and other celebrations. With over 60 designers participating, I'm sure you'll find something you'll want to try!

This month I'm sharing a necklace that I designed using paper bags. I've found that paper bags are very versatile, and lately, I've been making jewelry with them. Here's one that you can find in the pages of the June issue of Crafts 'n things.

The instructions are found on pages 76 and 77 of the June issue. Yes, you'll have to buy the magazine, but it is a treasure trove of great ideas in all sorts of craft areas. And, I hope to post more paper bag ideas with instructions in the future.

Continue the blog hop by clicking on the blue Designer Crafts button along the side of my blog.

Happy crafting!

Picket Fence Votive

2011-04-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

I've always loved cottage gardens with picket fences. This votive holder is reminiscent of that look with its bead flowers and the wire vining around the wood pickets. It's a craft that you and the kids can do together. Make it to decorate your Easter table or as a gift for Mother's Day.

Here are the materials you'll need: Picket fence, craft wire, acrylic beads and a votive candle holder.

You'll also need wire cutters, pliers, paint and a paintbrush.

Cut the picket fence where it meets when wrapped around the votive.

Press the wire ends against the pickets with the pliers.

Paint the fence in your favorite spring color.

Cut a piece of wire about 8" long and leaving a tail, wrap it around a picket on one end of the fence and then the other end to hold the fence in a circle. Add beads to the ends of the wire and curl the ends of the wire. Craft wire is easy to curl using a pencil or a dowel, or you can use round nose pliers. Cut another piece of wire and make another wrap in the same way to secure the ends together.

Continue the process varying the lengths of the wire and placement on the fence until it's covered as much as you like. Slide it over the votive.

Here's a set in green. You can also use this design as a napkin ring. Or, you could put it around a small vase or flower pot.

I'm sure you can think of a few variations of your own. Have fun adding your own touches and being creative!

Happy crafting!

Terry

New Giveaway!

2011-04-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

Calling all scrapbookers, paper lovers, general crafters and mixed-media artists! The giveaway this month is a set of DVDs from the last season of Scrapbook Memories. No, the show is not going away; it's just changing to a new name with a wider, more inclusive format. To have a chance to win this great set, you need to hop along the Designer Crafts Blog Connection by clicking on the blue button to the right of my blog. This will lead you down the bunny trail of lovely craft ideas. While you are on your way, look for the Scrapbook Memories logo. To see what this logo looks like, go to Julie McGuffee's blog. Leave a comment about your favorite craft show on that blog and you'll be eligible for the giveaway. I don't know which blog it is either, so I get to participate! It's like hunting for Easter eggs! Happy hopping! PS Come back and see the results on April 14 when we will also post a bunch of fresh spring projects!

Jewelry Affaire Spring 2011

2011-03-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters,

Have you seen the magazines from Stampington? Without a doubt, they have some of the most beautiful magazines I've seen. Their gorgeous layouts and photography make me want to live between the covers. Recently, I sent something off to one of their jewelry magazines and was delighted to be accepted. Jewelry Affaire is filled with intriguing designs that will inspire you to create. And, isn't that what it's all about?

Here's the necklace I created.

I found a wonderful old brooch in a second-hand shop, and it seemed perfect for a Victorian-style necklace. It was missing the pin back, so I attached it to a round filigree with wire. Then, I picked up the shapes and elements of the brooch in the strands of the necklace.

What have you found second-hand, at a flea market or garage sale that inspired you? I have several more brooches that I picked up that day that I want to re-style. And, there's a couple of necklaces that I wore in the 80's that are begging for a chance to see daylight again. Take a look at some of the jewelry that you have lying around and re-mix it into your life!

Happy crafting,

Terry

Where is Pack-o-Fun?

2011-03-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters,

I love to design children's crafts. It's fun for me to take something that will be thrown away and turn it into something useful. I suspect it is because I didn't have too many materials as a child and was forced to use what I could find. And, having Depression-era parents contributed to the general thriftiness. It's not a bad way to grow up. I think it encourages imagination and inventiveness. As a kid, I used to hunt for bits of broken glass to make mosaics and once made a curtain for my bedroom door with strings of rolled beads cut from can labels. So, when recycling and re-use became popular, I was already there.

The magazine, Pack-o-Fun, has always been a favorite of mine. And, when it folded, I was afraid that 50-year old children's craft magazine was gone forever. But, it's not! Yay! It became a section of Crafts 'n things!

I have a couple of crafts in the pack-o-fun section of April's magazine. This Posey Pin is one of them. It's made from paper bags. A couple of years ago as part of a designer challenge, I started making jewelry from paper bags. It's amazing what you can do with them! I hope to have more to show you in the future, and I encourage you to strike out on your own and see what you can create with them.

Happy crafting,

Terry

Weddings

2011-03-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters,

This month our topic is weddings and I can tell you that the wedding season has already begun this year. We went to an evening wedding just last night, so here is a look at one of this year's events.

The wedding took place in Sonoma at one of the oldest wineries in California--Buena Vista. It's a beautiful location with ivy-covered stone buildings dating from the 1800's. The great thing about having a location like this is that half the decorating is done for you in the beautiful setting. The ceremony took place outside in the cobbled courtyard against an ivy-covered wall. (Luckily, the rain held off until today.) The stone fountain was filled with flowers and the chairs had large bouquets along the aisle. To give you an idea of the amazing floral displays, here is one that I was privileged to take home.

The bride looked lovely in a satin ball gown in a two-tone comination of cream and tan. The bridesmaids had dresses in the same tan with black lace over the satin. (The groom looked charming also.)
Inside the winery tasting room where the reception was held, more flowers in red, pink and white decorated the tables and entry ways. The open beam ceiling, arched stone passages and aged oak wood provided a lovely, warm setting for the festivities.

An item that was, I thought, unique to the wedding was the "guestbook". Instead of writing your names in a book, the bride and groom had provided an ink drawing of a tree and family and friends added their fingerprints to the branches of the tree.

Enjoy browsing through all the wedding ideas on this month's blog hop!
Happy crafting,

Terry

Crafting Trends

2011-03-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters,

Today it's the beginning of another super blog hop. You may have noticed the blue button at the left of my blog. This button will take you on a tour of a host of designer blogs where you will see fabulous designs and read about the latest in crafts. This month, we will be talking about the trends we saw at the Craft and Hobby Show in January. And, as you hop around the blogs, look for clues. Yes, it's a blog hop and a treasure hunt! And, the prize is--ta da! A Cricut Expression! Now, that is a prize worth hunting for!

This prize is offered by Julie McGuffee, well-known designer and TV personality. You can find out how to hunt for the clues to the Cricket Expression on her blog. She also provided the photos that I will be using as I discuss some of the trends I saw at the show. These photos are provided for information only and contain designs under copyright.
Overall, I saw a continuing trend toward nostalgia and vintage in crafts. We want to get back to that idyllic past in the middle of the last century or beyond. There were lots of old suitcases like the ones Mom used to carry on the train--heavy and with no wheels! There were also old bikes and trikes and other rusty stuff. Old kitchen appliances in the '50's colors with coordinating aprons were very cute, as were all of the bright and colorful '50's designs. Love the pink stove! The show featured a lot of scrapbooking papers and it's nice to see that the trend in scrapbooking and paper suppliers is to use paper in different and more crafty ways than in layouts. There were lots of layered flowers in every shape and size. Birds are still a prominent motif in every form and material imaginable. This year, adding to the bird motif, were bird cages--old rusty ones, shabby chic white ones and others cut out of paper. And, adding to the fascination with air and flying were hot air balloons, paper lanterns, chandeliers and pennant garlands. Pennant garlands have gone from the triangular version into all shapes and sizes. Above you can see the bird cage combined with garden, home and layered flowers putting all the trends together!

Another trend that is still around is the early industrial/Steampunk look taken from the Victorian era. It's still quite a factor in jewelry with chain, pendants, and watches in a variety of tarnished, rusty and antiqued colors. The above photo is from the Ideaology booth and shows the vintage trend in the mixture of old machinery with the aged chest and birdcage.

I hope you enjoyed my take on trends. For more on trends in the craft industry, hop forward or back on the big blue Designer Crafts button.

Happy Crafting,

Terry

CHA Show Winter 2011

2011-02-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I'm back from the CHA Winter show. It's the biggest craft show in the industry. As always, it is overwhelming and amazing and great exercise. We got quite a work out. Some of the meetings and seminars were a half mile away (I think!) from the show floor, so we all did plenty of walking. And, of course, since we carry or drag pounds of samples, catalogs and projects, we did our weight-lifting, too! Now, if I can only keep up the regimen!

I didn't take a lot of photos. I was too busy gawking at all the wonders of the craft booths. But, a well-known designer, Julie McGuffee, took amazing photos of the show. You can see them here on her blog. You'll feel just like you walked the show with her.

I did have a photo of me and my showcase taken. Here I am in a large meeting room with about 40 other designers and their displays. Each of us have a 6 foot table on which to display our designs and portfolio. The place just oozes creativity!

All in all, it was an amazing show. And, it was the people that made it so fantastic. I met fellow designers whose work I have admired, an editor who is just a sweetheart, and worked with a wonderful family at Stanislaus Imports that has been in the industry for many years.

After the many changes in 2010 that had left many of us designers disheartened, I think this year will bring new and exciting oppurtunities! And, for all of you who attended I wish you a prosperous and enriching year. And, I don't just mean money!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-14T16:11:00.000-08:00

I am finally back to the blog after a long holiday vacation away. Most of the ornaments are put away and I am now knee-deep in tax forms that must be out by the end of the month. I've been busily crafting also.

One of the big events for the craft and hobby industry is only 14 days away. It's the Craft and Hobby Show. This industry show is mainly for retailers who go to view the latest products to order for their stores. Business seminars and classes on how to use the products are also available.

Designers are a big part of the show and participate in many ways. We teach classes. We demonstrate for the manufacturers on the show floor. Designers also have the chance to show their work to a wide section of the craft industry including manufacturers, publishers and editors. We can have a booth right on the show floor or showcase our designs in a table-top display.

So, January is a little crazy as I try to come up with some new designs and create an eye-catching display. And, then, I try to fit it all into my suitcase! For the last couple of years, I have used canvas panels hinged together for my back drop. They were painted a nice soft green with lightly stenciled ferns here and there. This year I'm going bolder. I came up with this woodsy abstract by mixing three colors of paint and streaking it on with a foam brush.

I don't paint often, and when I do, it's usually a small kid's craft, so this abstract was out of my usual genre. I think it was a nice change from the precision of needlepoint and jewelry-making. And, when I get back from the show, I might put it on my wall!

Hope you'll try something outside your usual craft this month!

Happy crafting!

Terry

emerald, meet copper

2010-12-22T10:45:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

I have been anxiously awaiting a package today. And, it finally arrived--my copy of the Winter 2010 issue of Stringing magazine! It's loaded with wonderful designs for gifts or wearing to holiday parties along with lots of info on the latest in beading trends, as usual. And...I have a necklace design published in it! It's a mix of brushed copper beads and three different types and shapes of glass beads--clear green ovals, patterned rounds and bumpy mottled green pearls. I love to mix up textures and shapes in a design. It makes it so much more interesting!

Here's the page in the magazine. I'm in great company here--Denise Yezbak Moore's fleurs nouveau necklace is beside mine. Visit her blog to see more of her amazing jewelry.

This is an exciting way to end the year for me. Here's wishing you all good things and the best in the New Year!

And, of course,

Happy Crafting!

Terry

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop - Bookmark

2010-12-16T10:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Crafters!

This is the last week of our Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop and I want to thank Sizzix, Eileen Hull, Brenda Pinnick, Karen Burniston and Jen Goode for setting up this fabulous round of designing fun! These products are so versatile and the ideas and designs produced by this group of designers are astounding. I learned so much!

This week we're working with another of Eileen Hull's dies - Treat Bag Toppers. This is what I received:

This is a great assortment of pieces and the nice thing about them is that there are so many possibilities. Yes, you can use them to top a bag, but what about a place card with the large piece or labels for your holiday buffet or gift tags for goodies for the neighbors? The mind boggles! Well, at least my mind did! But, I'm easily boggled this time of year with shopping and shipping and baking and decorating.

So, after some thought, the idea light flickered on and I came up with this idea - a bookmark! It's quick and easy to make and perfect for the last minute when you need a craft for the kids to make or a quick gift for a friend.

You can dress it up or down with the styles of ribbon, paper, paint or glitter that you have on hand. The small bag topper piece folds over the book page or it can rest on the top of the book. I painted the pieces with a paint marker, added the lettering with a black permanent pen, cut two pieces of ribbon and glued them under the inside of the top piece. Then I glued the pieces on the ribbon. You could also stamp the lettering or use stickers.

Thanks to all of you who stopped by on the blog hop, made comments and signed up as followers! I truly appreciate your support and want to wish you the happiest of holidays!

Merry Christmas!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 6: Wish Book

2010-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hi crafters!

This week on the blog hop we are working with another Sizzix die from Brenda Pinnick - the Album, Brackets, Bigz XL Die (#656053). Along with the die cuts in cardstock, I received some cut from Xotic Felt(TM) and Brenda's fabric in fabulous colors.

I put some of the die cuts together to make a small album that I'm calling a Wish Book. I've been dreaming of going to Hawaii for some time now. With the winter weather, a warm tropical climate sounds especially nice. I'd also like to return to Italy one of these days. One trip there just wasn't enough.

To make the album, I found pictures of these locales in a travel magazine and glued them to my pages. I left frames empty for my own photos. The frames are painted, covered with felt or with the fabric. Double Sided tape from Scotch(R) holds it together. The front is covered with the felt and a few of the leftover flowers from Brenda's Beauty Bloom Flower Die. I had trim from a previous project and some glittered florettes (Dazzlers(TM) by Petaloo) that I glued over the felt flowers. Then I tied it together with a scrap of ribbon.

Thanks for stopping by on the blog hop! Keep on hoppin'!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 5: Christmas Gift Card

2010-12-03T11:37:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone!

Here's the project for this week's Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop - a Christmas Gift Card. The die cut we are working with this week is from Karen Burniston. It is a pop-up gift card holder with a "for you" phrase on it, and, for me, it is the perfect item for this time of year. My family gives each other a lot of gift cards for Christmas, so I really need fifteen or twenty of these! Maybe Santa will bring me a Sizzix Big Shot Pro die cutting machine for Christmas! I've been good!

To create this card, I used a card, cardstock and chipboard embellishments from Die Cuts With a View. These are last year's Holiday Collection that I purchased intending to make homemade cards last year. Right!

I love the color combinations on the cards and cardstock and found one pattern that matched the gray color of my die cut. Other than the tape to hold the card together and a piece of ribbon, I used a Gelly Roll Stardust Clear glitter pen (a gift from the Sakura folks) to add a little sparkle to the edges of the cardstock. Since I don't have a Sizzix die cutting machine, I traced and cut out the red frame and other colored cardstock for the inside of the card. I don't regularly work with cards and scrapbooking materials, but I found this pop-up assembly easy and fun to do. You can find the instructions here.

Here's the finished card:

This nifty pop-up makes giving a gift card fun for the giver and the receiver! I can see more card-making in my future!

Happy crafting and Happy Hopping along the blog trail!

Terry

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Delay

2010-12-02T17:07:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!
Sorry to post late, but we were out of town visiting family a few days longer than I anticipated! I hope to have my post up tomorrow. In the meantime, hop along to see all the other fabulous designs!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 4: Fall Frame

2010-11-25T05:45:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope you are all enjoying the company of family and friends and sharing a bountiful feast!

Here's my contribution to the blog hop for Week 4. We used another of Eileen Hull's fun die cuts to create a layered frame. You can see the frame here. You can also find the assembly instructions and a layout of the pieces at the same link. It comes with a lot of pieces and I chose to use just the back two pieces of the set to create my frame. The rest I will use later for a refrigerator magnet frame to show off photos of my granddaughter!

I covered the back of the frame with a piece of scrapbook paper. I painted the front piece heavily with dark green paint, then I painted it with red paint. I let that dry and sanded it here and there to expose the underlying green paint. I also dabbed the edges of the back with the red paint. I glued small strips of cardboard to the back of the front piece. This allows me to slide a photo or other paper in and out of the frame. Then, I glued the strips to the back.

To make the leaves, I backed sections of the leaf paper with cardstock, gluing them together with tacky glue. Then, I trimmed out the leaves. While still damp from the glue, I bent and folded them to give them dimension. Then, I glued them to the frame. To complete the frame, slide in a photo or your favorite saying.

Thanks for stopping by, and, again, Happy Thanksgiving!

Terry

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 3: Fab Flower Cuff

2010-11-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Without further ado, here's what I created with some of the Beauty Bloom die cuts I received for the blog hop:

Besides the die cuts from Sizzix which included pieces of a Xotic Felt(TM) and fabric from Brenda Pinnick's own fabric line by Henry Glass and Co., I used an aluminum bracelet cuff blank, bias tape, thread and needle, hot glue and some beads all from my personal supplies.

I wrapped the cuff with the bias tape and glued the end:
Then, I took some of the felt pieces and gathered them in the center and at the points to give them dimension. I used a needle and thread and a few stitches, but you could pinch them together with your fingers and glue them. Then I stitched a couple of beads to the center of a fabric flower and stacked the parts together. I glued the stack to the center of the cuff. I made two smaller flowers in the same manner and glued one on each side of the main flower.

Here are more views of the cuff to show the smaller flowers.

Don't forget to click on the Sizzix blog button and see all the other fabulous creations! Happy hopping!

Preview of our next Sizzix project

2010-11-15T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm having so much fun with this next project on the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop! This week we're working with a flower die. It's the Beauty Bloom die (#655455) by Brenda Pinnick. Each of us designers received a baggie full of die cuts in paper, felt and fabric. The fabric is Brenda's own line of fabric. Each designer received a different selection. Here's what I received:

I love the color combination; it's definitely going to be a summer-themed project. Or, maybe something you can wear on a cruise to the Caribbean. Oops, I almost gave it away! You'll have to wait and see the actual project on Thursday!

Until then,

Happy crafting!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 2: Origami Paper Ornament

2010-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Week 2 of the incredible Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop!
Here's my creation this week--an origami paper ornament! I decided this cube would make a great hanging lantern ornament. So, I decorated it with some beautiful origami paper, gold trim, fan filigrees, a few beads and a sparkly thread tassle.

To make this ornament, I used the die cut provided by Sizzix: Twist Cube, 3D Pop-up, Bigz XL die #656739 by Karen Burniston. It was made using Die Cuts with a View cardstock. I put the cube together without the rubber band since I wanted a static (non-moving) cube. Before I closed it up, I made wire assemblies to hold the hanger at the top and the tassel at the bottom. I put a 6" length of 22 gauge black craft wire (Toner Crafts) through a large 2-hole button like this:

Then I wrapped the short tail around the longer tail and trimmed the excess wire.
Slide this assembly through the hole in the bottom of the box so that the button is on the inside. You won't see the button, so don't use a nice one. Add a large-holed bead over the wrap on the outside and another bead of your choice. I used a bicone that fits into the large hole. Then make a large wrapped loop. These beads are from The Beadery. This is the bottom of the box before the addition of the tassel. Before you close and seal the top, make another button and wire assembly for the top and slide it through the top hole.

To decorate the sides of the box, I cut a sheet of origami paper from Yasutomo into 4 equal squares. The sheet I used was not quite a 6" square so the square did not cover the sides. I glued trim (Wrights) around the paper to add sparkle and cover the edges. Then, I glued some fan filigrees (Cousin Corp.) to the top and tied on some strands of thread (Kreinik) with an overhand knot at the bottom. A loop of the same thread is added at the top loop for hanging.
Try this for you Christmas tree or as a decoration for Chinese New Year!
Happy crafting,
Terry

Sizzix Triple-Play Blog Hop Sneak Peek

2010-11-09T09:44:00.000-08:00

That's a mouthful! I bet you can't say that three times fast!

Just a quick note to show you what we'll be working on for this Thursday's hop. This is an amazing little invention by Karen Burniston: A pop-up cube! Can't wait to see everyone's designs. There are some amazing designers on this hop!

Until Thursday, happy crafting!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 1: Gingerbread House

2010-11-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here it is at last! The Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop! Here's what I designed with the 3D House die cut.
I had so much fun with this; I could have gone on and on with all the different ideas that I had. I wanted to create a whole village!
To create this Gingerbread House, I used the die cut I received from Sizzix. All other materials were purchased.

If you want to create your own, you'll need:

Sizzix supplies:
#656836 Sizzix Scoreboards Pro Die - House, 3D, by Eileen Hull
Sizzix 12x12 matboard, white
Sizzix Big Shot Pro die cutting machine
Then, I added:
Acrylic paint in a gingerbread color (I mixed two Plaid Folk Art(R) paints - Terra Cotta and English Mustard in equal amounts.)

Dimensional Fabric Paint in white for the frosting (Tulip Slick(R))

Multicolored faceted rondelles (Darice(R))

Double-sided tape

Tacky glue (Aleene's(R))

White craft foam glued to a piece of foam board for the base
Optional items: Small scrap of yellow tissue paper, small bow from thread or yarn, small pieces of colored craft foam, a small tree, fluffy stuffing
Tools needed:
Scissors, paintbrush, waxed paper

General Instructions:
Create the house following the general instructions using double-sided tape to hold it together except for the door and window frames and the fence. Cover work surface and paint the house with acrylic paint and let dry. Glue small squares of yellow tissue paper over the window openings
Place the window and door frames on waxed paper and add dimensional paint. Let dry separately. Add the dimensional paint to the house in the patterns of your choice and let dry. Glue the door and window frames in place. Add dots and lines of dimensional paint and place rondelles as desired. Add a circle of paint and place green rondelles for a wreath. Add a small bow to the wreath. Add more paint above the windows and door and anywhere you need to cover up an oopsie!
When dry, glue house to base. Cut the tabs off the fence piece. Measure 1/2" up from the base of the fence and draw a line. Cut the fence on this line. Trim the top edges to match the center pickets of the fence. Trace this piece onto the piece you cut off the bottom and clip the points on this piece of fencing. Glue these pieces on either side of the door. Cut small pieces of colored craft foam for the stepping stones and glue these between the fences. Add dimensional paint lines around the base of the house, around the stones and on the fence.
Add a small tree and other miniature ornaments around the house or cut small gingerbread people from mat board and paint to match.

Now, it's time to hop to the next fun design! Just click on the navigation button at the top of my blog to go forward or backward to the next blog. And, here's a link to the Sizzix master list.

Happy hopping!

Another peek!

2010-10-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Here's another peek at the upcoming Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop. Our first item is a cute little 3D House. Here it is partially constructed. I've left the roof off for now so that it's easier for me to decorate.

I can't wait to show you what I've done with it!

Until then, happy crafting!

Sizzix Blog Hop Sneak Peek

2010-10-22T10:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall!

And, yes, it finally feels like fall here in central California. It's raining and the leaves are falling everywhere! It's time for the broom and the rake. I love the wonderful fresh smell of the air and the musty dampness of the earth as I rake up the leaves. The colors this time of year are so remarkable. And, the loss of leaves surprises me with new textures and silhouettes as the bark and branches of the trees are exposed to view. The season beckons me to get out of my cozy craft room and go for a walk in the woods to see the changing venue.

But, in the meantime, back in the cozy craft room, I'm having a great time decorating my 3D House. It's the first die cut in the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop. Here's what it looked like when I got it in the mail:

In a couple of days, I'll show you how it looks constructed. I love working with 3D. I've made a lot of 3D objects in plastic canvas, so this is right up my alley! I can't wait to see all the little houses created by others on the blog hop. There are just so many ways to go with this little house.

Until next time, happy crafting!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop!

2010-10-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

Coming soon to over 60 blogs near you: The Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop!

It should be oodles of fun as more than 60 talented designers decorate the same Sizzix cut-outs. I can't wait to see all the fantastic creations, and I can't wait to get started on my own models. The first project will be posted on November 4th, so stay tuned!

Happy crafting!

Terry

A new book!

2010-10-09T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

I like to say that I'm a self-taught crafter. And, in many ways, I am. I've had very few arts and craft teachers, but I learn easily from books and magazines. When I get a new craft magazine or book, I pore over it, first looking at all the pictures, then going back and reading the directions. I tend to do this several times, putting it away for awhile, then bringing it back out and going over it again. Then, I put it on my shelf and, when I'm in a lull in my designing, I take out a stack of magazines and flip through them for inspiration. There's always some new color combination or technique variation that jump starts my own creativity.

I made a comment on Margot Potter's blog recently, and in a random drawing, won a copy of her new book, Bead Chic.

It's full of on-trend jewelry ideas that will fit right in with today's styles, but it's also has a good layout of the elements of designing jewelry. Margot details how elements like scale, color and texture can change the a design into something that looks totally different. There are lots of beautiful examples, both hers and guest designers. There is also a great section with photos on all the basic jewelry techniques.

This is a great book to use as a springboard to create your own unique creations. I'm going to create my own version of the Talisman bracelet on page 97. I've always wanted to make a bracelet like that!

Happy crafting,

Terry

A new project

2010-09-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

I'm always up for a new craft challenge. And, I'm so proud of my progress on this new project that I just had to show and tell!

I'm making a knitted headband for my granddaughter. It has yarnovers and slipped stitches. And, it's on #3 needles! Now, that's progress for me in relearning and expanding my knitting skills. It's not just garter stitch anymore!

One thing my knitting group has recommended to me as they watched me knit with my old, long aluminum needles are bamboo needles. And, now, I can see what they meant. Those long needles are just irritating on smaller projects. I like the grip of the bamboo needles, too.

So, you can teach an old crafter new tricks! Thanks, ladies!

What new skills are you learning?

Keep on crafting (and learning!),

Terry

Fall is in the air!

2010-09-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

The change to fall weather has arrived a few days earlier than the calendar schedule. Mother Nature has her own way! On this side of the United States, the summer was cooler than normal, so this early rain and cool temperatures aren't helping our crops to ripen. But, it has happened before and will happen again. It's farm life; you are at the will of the seasons for the most part.

So, that's the farming side of my life. As for the nature-lover and crafter side, I welcome the change of seasons. I love the way the first rain settles the summer's dust and washes the air clean sending up a luscious wave of damp and earthy odors from the falling leaves. Bright, warm colors start to emerge amid the greens. I start thinking about combining wonderful shades of gold and russet red into my designs and shaping leaves from all sorts of different materials like paper, copper sheets and printed fabrics.

And, on the home side, there's nothing like rain for making the house feel like a warm haven of light and peace against the storm and clouds of autumn.

I'm ready for a walk through the woods to collect a few turning leaves and graying branches to decorate the table. Or, for a steaming bowl of soup made from the ripening acorn squash and sprinkled with freckles of nutmeg. It's time to make a plaid scarf combining the rich colors of autumn in fleecy yarns and metallic fibers.

Happy fall and, of course, happy crafting!

Terry

Valentines in August

2010-08-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

I'm busy creating as usual. My mind never stops! I wish my fingers could move as fast as my mind!

Today I created a Valentine box. No, you can't see it yet. Hopefully, a magazine will pick it up for February.

Such is craft designing, creating designs at least six months ahead. It's sometimes difficult to get in the mood for Christmas in July or Easter around Thanksgiving. And, it can be difficult to find materials for that holiday out of season.

Here, in wine country, the season appears to be approaching fall. The nights are cooler; the afternoons warm. It beats the cool, foggy summer we had. I'm hoping for a nice Indian summer to ripen the grapes!

Keep on crafting!

Terry

Last year's crop

What are you creating?

2010-07-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

What are you creating this summer?

Are you knitting an afgan, working on Christmas gifts, designing a new outdoor space or writing a short story? Creativity is everywhere!

I like to play in quite a few creative areas. It's a messy life, but it's never boring! Here are a few of my creations.

I'm still knitting a rotini scarf. Yes, I have been working on this scarf for almost two years now, but I love it. The colors of the silk yarn are just gorgeous. I am finally on my second skein, so I am very proud of myself. I'm relearning how to knit--but slowly!

I found my sewing machine under the piles of mending and sewed a quick pillow cover to go with my patio chairs.

I was privileged to share crafting with the group of homeschoolers that comes to my house once a month. They are always an inspiration and with ages ranging from 3 to 13, it's a challenge to find a project that will work for everyone. Here's a windsock that we did last month. Plastic canvas, twine and beads!

Beading--of course! Here's a snippet of a necklace in progress.

And, I've been playing with an assortment of recyclable materials and throwaways to make them into fun crafts. As a designer for magazines, I'm working on designs for Christmas already.

I'd love to hear what you've been up to this summer! I hope you are having a great time stretching your creative muscles!

Happy crafting!

Terry

New link to my book

2010-07-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

Life is a learning experience, and there is so much out there to learn! Blogging is full of such learning experiences and, as I have time, I hope to make my blog a more interesting one.

I've had a jewelry book out for about two years now, and I've now added a link to it. It's Jump Ring Jewelry and was published by Design Originals. It's an introductory look at how to connect beads, chain and links with jump rings. If you are looking for a beginning book on chain mail and jump rings, this book would be a good place to start. It's an easy technique to learn and you can do so much with it.

I've had so much fun with this style of jewelry and whenever I get the time, I learn some new chain mail weaves. There are a mulitude of them, and those that love the craft come up with some very complex designs. This is a collar that I did with twisted jump rings.

This craft can be very addictive, but it has a meditative quality like knitting or crocheting. If you get carried away, you can make a whole suit of armor!

I hope you're learning a new craft this summer!

Happy crafting,

Terry

Steampunk Collage Pendant

2010-06-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

For my last design as an Amate Studios design team member, I created a pendant in the steampunk style. This style combines mechanical elements like gears and chain with a Victorian romantic style. At least, that's my take on it. I like the mixture of elements and the antique feel of the pieces. I think of this pendant as titled: Time Unravelled!

You can find the instructions for this pendant in the June projects at http://www.amatestudios.com/. Thanks to Amate Studios and all the great people there for a wonderful year of designing fun. I so enjoyed the oppurtunity to receive and design with your excellent products.

I can't wait to design more jewelry in this style. I hope you'll try a new style or craft this summer. Experiment and expand your creative potential!

Terry

Let them eat zucchini!

2010-06-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

I picked these beauties on the first day of summer. I don't think we've ever had zucchini that early. So, in the midst of corporate downsizing (his) and cancelled book deals (mine), at least we have zucchini. Grilled zucchini, zucchini bread, zucchini fritters...anyone have a good recipe?

Or, maybe, crafting with zucchini? I'm picturing a dried zucchini slice wreath, or maybe a dried zucchini doll. Zucchini jewelry? Well, maybe not!

Keep smiling (and, plant a garden!),

Terry

Lazy Days of Summer

2010-06-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

Yay, color! This background is so much more me! It reminds me of lying in the grass and watching the clouds go by. Look, there's a rabbit--no, now it's an airplane--hmm, changed again, and now it's a ...I don't know, what do you think it is? I love those easy relaxed days of summer. I hope you're finding some time to relax and just cloud gaze!

Here's a craft that goes right along with a summery attitude. This plant poke will add just the right touch to the pot of flowers that you're giving to a friend. I designed this craft for Amate Studios.

Button Plant Poke

Materials:

Diamond Square Pendant in color of your choice (PN-008A)
Green pom poms or green yarn
Assortment of garden buttons
1 ft. green 16-gauge wire or other hanger
Jump ring

Tools:

Scissors
Hot glue and glue gun
Wire cutters, round nose pliers

Instructions:
1. Cut pom poms in half and glue into pendant tray. Or, cut yarn into small pieces and glue into tray.
2. Arrange buttons as desired and glue into tray over yarn.
3. To make the wire hanger, bend one end of the wire around a glue bottle to make a hook. Bend the end of the hook up around a pen. Curl the end into a loop with round nose pliers.
4. Open a jump ring and attach the pendant to the hanger. Close the jump ring. If desired, a jump ring can be made from the hanger wire.

With so many fun buttons available, you can personalize this craft easily!
Happy crafting!
Terry

Leather Cuff Links

2010-06-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

If you are looking for a quick gift for Father's Day or the groomsmen at the wedding, here's a design for some easy cuff links. These are in the June projects on the Amate Studios website. They are very simple to make and it's easy to change the color to suit your style!

Have fun with it!

Terry

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T10:36:00.000-07:00

As humans we need reminders of the past, and it is a good thing to have moments, hours and days when we set aside our rush of daily activities to remember those who shaped our past and sacrificed for our futures. I hope you'll stop today to remember those who sacrificed so much for our country not only in the armed services, but those who kept the home fires burning in their absence.

As a small token of remembrance and patriotism, here's a craft that you can wear to celebrate the Red, White and Blue!

Stars and Stripes Belt Buckle

This buckle form is from Amate Studios and is filled with a piece of flag handkerchief, some quilt batting and a piece of cardboard. To make it, trace the form on a piece of cardboard and trim the cardboard so that it fits loosely in the buckle. You want to leave room for the fabric to be folded over the edge of the cardboard. Then, cut a piece of quilt batting the same size as the cardboard. Decide which part of the handkerchief you'd like for the belt buckle and cut out a circle with a 1/2" extra around the cardboard circle. Glue the batting to the cardboard and place the fabric on top the batting. Pull the fabric to the back of the cardboard, clipping and gluing the fabric to the back. To get the smoothest fit, glue the four compass points first, then work in betwen them. Check the piece for the fit in the belt buckle form and adjust now if needed. Glue the layered fabric piece into the belt buckle. Add fabric pen highlights or some sparkles if you like.

Summer Crafting Fun!

2010-05-12T17:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

I never have more fun than when I am crafting with kids--or for kids! That's why I am always so pleased when I have a craft design published in Pack-o-Fun. It's one of my favorite magazines and is filled with wonderful projects that are easy, fun and inexpensive. I can't believe the July issue is already out!

I like to use recyclable materials when I can, so the craft I designed uses bright plastic lids like the ones that come on the top of drink mixes, canned snacks and coffee cans. You can find them in an assortment of colors and they are easy to cut with scissors. I cut butterflies from them. But, you could easily cut other things like stars or flowers. A cookie cutter makes a good pattern or you can create your own pattern.

Here's my Butterfly Garland that's in Pack-o-Fun:

Their July issue is also filled with delightful crafts for teachers' gifts, Father's Day cards, Fourth of July decorations, summer camp and Vacation Bible School projects and will keep the kids busy all summer!

Happy crafting!

Terry

Denim Flower

2010-04-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!
Here's a fun project for Mother's Day!

I love to re-use stuff that outgrown its original purpose. I designed this fun flower using old denim jeans and some worn buttons, but it would be fun to try with other fabrics and centers as well. Have fun with it and make one for all the moms in your life!

The flower is made with an Amate Studios Bottle Cap Pendant. I used this because it is deep enough to hold the layers of denim and push the flower petals up. You can wear it as a pendant or glue on a pin back and wear it as a pin. I think it would look great hanging from or pinned to a straw bag for summer. (You can find more about all the different shapes of pendants that they carry at http://www.amatestudios.com/. )

Denim Flower Pendant

Materials:

Bottle Cap Pendant (PN-186)

Old denim, 3” by 8” piece

Sandpaper

Glue (G-S Hypo Cement used in sample)

Old metal buttons, ¾” and ½”

Instructions:

1. Cut two 3” circles and one 2” circle. These do not have to be perfect circles. Cut four petals in the large circles by cutting into the circle leaving the center together. Shape petals. Make each one a little different than the others. On the small circle, make 1” deep cuts around the circle creating fringe with varying widths.

2. Sand the edges of the flowers with sandpaper to fray and distress them.

3. Glue one large flower into the pendant pressing it into the pendant to shape the flower allowing petals to overlap. Glue second large flower center over the first with the petals placed in the gaps of the first flower’s petals. Place fringed small circle into the center rolling it to fit and allow the fringe to overlap.

4. Stack the buttons and glue into the center of the flower. Push buttons down into the pendant and hold until glue sets.

5. To wear as a pendant, add a chain or leather cord. To wear as a pin, glue a pin back to the back of the pendant with metal glue.

A note for using this project with children:

To modify this project for children, use a plastic cap from a milk carton, paper or lighter cloth for the flowers, bright buttons and an adhesive-backed pin.

March Projects

2010-03-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

Before the month of March totally slips away, I want to share what I've been doing all month. It's been an exciting month for our family. We welcomed our first granddaughter into the world!

So, I spent the major part of the month away from my studio. Of course, I did take some crafts along with me--portable crafts like knitting (a baby blanket!) and jewelry. But, as you can imagine, I spent a lot of my time gazing raptly at my adorable granddaughter.

Before I left, I designed a project for Amate Studios for March, which is posted on their website. It's a Celtic Medallion and is super-easy to do. As a designer who doesn't play with clay much, my polymer clay designs will always be on the easy side!

This one has a touch of serendipity to it, which means I found a good way out of my mistake. Basically, you prepare the clay, stamp it and cut it to fit the pendant. Then, I dusted it with a resin powder. A good idea, but way too much powder. What to do now? I couldn't brush it off without wrecking the pendant. I didn't want to add water and try to wash it off because it might ruin the effect. So, I baked it the way it was. Then, the light went on! Why not sand it? It turned out to be the perfect solution and allowed just enought of the green clay to show through to give it a worn, antiqued look!

Yay, another disaster averted! Have you had something similar happen to you? How did you save your craft disaster?

Happy crafting everyone!

Terry

Happy Heart Day!

2010-02-14T08:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone! Here's wishing you lots of love in your life!

Here's a quick heart that you can make today. I made it for Amate Studios with a Mardi Gras theme, but if you choose pink and red sequins, it would look great for Valentine's Day! For the instructions, go to their website at http://www.amatestudios.com/. It's under the February projects.

As a member of Amate Studios' Design Team, they provide me with the pendants, and in return, I provide them with the design. All other materials are purchased by me.

Getting organized!

2010-02-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

I'm back from a week at the CHA show, and the first thing I noticed when I stepped into my "studio" is that no one had cleaned it up while I was gone!! Too bad! So, it's back to my perennial New Year's resolution: Get organized!

Luckily, one of the things I brought home from the show is this nifty bag from the Nantucket Bagg Co. The vendor gave it to me to try and to give it a mention on my blog. I am happy to do so, because it really is well-designed.

Here it is zipped up and hanging on my fence. It would make a great outdoor activities bag like this. Take it on a picnic or to the gym. You can't see it in this photo, but on the other side are straps so you can wear it like a backpack.

But, this bag can be unzipped and laid totally flat, so that you have access to all the pockets on the other side of the bag. You can hang it up this way. Or, you can zip it up with all the pockets on the outside as shown in this picture. Here I've put all my knitting needles and yarn in it (and only used half the pockets!) It's ready to go for my next knitting group.

And, in the process of organizing my knitting, I found a pair of scissors and some crochet needles that had been lost under all the yarn!

Now, at least my knitting is organized!

Happy crafting,

Terry

To learn more about these bags, check out their website at www.nantucketbagg.com.

More CHA Show Stuff!

2010-01-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

This year's theme for the Craft and Hobby show is Crafting Around the World. In the Global Gallery, the designers will have pieces that reflect the theme with crafts inspired by the country they chose. I can't wait to see all the fantastic pieces.

I chose Mexico. I love the art and crafts from our southern neighbor. It was hard to choose a craft because there are so many that I like--metalwork, bright painted bark paper, intricate cut-out banners, tooled leather. In the end, I chose a terra cotta sun plaque. It doesn't use terra cotta clay, but it is inspired by the colors and textures of Mexican pottery.

Here's the final result. I say "final result" with my fingers crossed, because I keep playing with it--adding a little paint here or there. We'll see if it stays as is. There is a point where I'll have to let it dry and wrap it up for travel, but I am taking my paint with me!

It was so much fun to try a new craft. I don't work much with clay, and I really enjoyed sculpting with paper clay. I hope you'll try a new craft this year. You never know what you'll achieve!

Happy crafting!

Terry

New Amate Studios pieces!

2010-01-12T13:52:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

I'm really looking forward to the big Craft and Hobby Show this year. It's always exciting to see all the new craft materials and tools. I'm like a kid in a candy store!

Amate Studios will be there with new metal pendants to fill up with whatever you like. They've come out with some new shapes that are different from others I've seen. One is a shape they call a T-shirt. But, I thought it looked like it could be a Kimono, so I took some beautiful origami paper from Yasutomo and folded it around cardboard with some padding in between. I added a contrasting paper and some glittery gold Kreinik ribbon, and I'm really happy with the result. I can think of several things that I want to do with this shape. What would you create with it?

I am really liking padding the space inside the pendant trays and covering it with paper as in the Kimono, or with fabric, as in the Snowman shown below. He's got a stitched face and I tied a strip of plaid fabric around his neck before I glued the padded shape into the head-shaped form.
You can find the instructions for these designs on the Amate Studios website(www.amatestudios.com). Drop by the booth if you are at the CHA show and say hi!

Happy crafting,
Terry

Only two weeks before the show!

2010-01-07T16:16:00.001-08:00

Yikes! Where does the time go? It's only two weeks before the Craft Super Show and Craft and Hobby Association trade show. And, I have a whole list of things to do.

Number 1: Finish my gallery piece for the CHA Designer Global Display. It's only cracked and fallen apart once, which is pretty good for working with materials I haven't worked with before. I like a challenge, but sometimes I give myself a little bit too much of one. I'm on version 2.0 right now. My country is Mexico and I'll show it off when it's finished.

Number 2: Put together a display of stunning designs that will awe and amaze the editors and publishers who stop by to look at all the Designer Showcases. Hmmm...

Number 3: Practice my yo-yo skills. No, not the Tommy Smothers kind of yo-yo--the fabric kind where you stitch around a fabric circle then pull up the stitches into a smaller, finished circle. After all, I am going to be helping at a workshop where I will need yo-yo skills. Karen Wiant obviously has those skills in abundance and a little innovation, too. She's designed a wreath with four different kinds of yo-yo's--one for each season. You saw that darling snowman in the last post. Then, there's a spring blossom yo-yo, a Fourth of July firecracker yo-yo and a pumpkin yo-yo for fall. Each one is a little different design. Here they are on the grapevine wreath held on with Velcro Press & Fasten, which makes them removable and interchangable. Pretty nifty!

Hope to see you at the show!

Terry

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

January is an exciting month in craft-land. The Craft and Hobby Association trade show is on for later this month in Anaheim, California, and it's as exciting as Christmas as all of us designers and retailers and manufacturers prepare to display our wares.

For the first time at the Winter Show, there will be a Craft Super Show(http://www.craftsupershow.com/). This show is open to the public. With your ticket purchase, you can see some of the newest crafts, meet well-known designers and do free make it-take its.

You can also buy tickets for workshops ranging from sewing to jewelry-making to scrapbooking and much, much more. I'll be helping out at a workshop showcasing the new Press and Close Fasteners from Velcro(R). My friend, Karen Wiant, has designed a super cute wreath using yo-yo's that you can use for all four seasons. It's got interchangable motifs that you fasten to a grapevine wreath.

I'll be highlighting each motif in the following days and talking more about the show. Here's the winter motif-an adorable little snowman!

I hope you'll check out the website and plan on being at the Craft Super Show.

Happy Crafting!

Terry

Very merry plastic canvas designs!

2009-12-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, Virginia, there are still designers who are creating new designs in plastic canvas. No, not a lot, but we have hope that there will be a resurgence, because we can't help ourselves, we just love to stitch on it and bend it and shape it and build funny things out of it. There's nothing quite as versatile.

I have been stitching on plastic canvas for over 20 years now, and it's been great fun! I've had 14 or so booklets published and many, many designs published in magazines and hardcover books.

This Christmas, DRG has come out with a hardback book called Christmas Traditions in Plastic Canvas and it's filled with cute designs for gift-giving and decorating your home for the holidays . I'm proud to say that I have several designs in the book and I hope you'll take a look at it if you love the craft as much as I do. It's on the Annie's Attic website - http://www.anniesattic.com/ - where you can also see my booklets.

Here's a photo of the Christmas Ornaments that I did for the book.

Happy crafting no matter which craft you enjoy!

Terry

A quick gift idea

2009-12-04T09:14:00.000-08:00

Hi crafters!

It's not quite the last minute yet, but gift-giving events can come up quickly. Maybe you need a gift for a teacher, a neighbor or a gift-exchange at work. Here's a cute Flower Bookmark that you can whip up quickly and have ready to wrap the next day. The only real time it takes is in letting the glaze dry; otherwise, you can put it together in minutes.

You can find the instructions for this flower bookmark on the Amate Studios website(www.amatestudios.com) under the November projects. Since I am a member of their Design Team this year, they provided the flower pendant. All the other materials were purchased.

You can make this bookmark is a variety of colors. Use a seed bead mix or mix your own colors from beads you already have. Try this in Christmas colors for a cute stocking stuffer!

Happy Holiday Crafting!

Terry

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick craft that you can find on the Amate Studios website. You can find it on their blog. There's still time before Thanksgiving to make it; it's that quick!

But, if you're up to your ears in pie-baking and cleaning out the guest room for company, this craft can be easily adapted for the Christmas season. Simply change the charms and colors and put in a words like "Be Merry" for a quick ornament or gift.

Wishing you all the very best of Thanksgivings shared with family and friends,

Terry

Easy Candle Holder

2009-11-08T14:58:00.000-08:00

I like crafts that look good, but are easy and inexpensive to do. I think this one fits the bill. Family gatherings are coming up and this quick decoration is one that everyone can make. Get the kids to help. This is also a great craft to do with a large group of crafters.

Basically, you glue clay saucers together. This one has two small saucers, one inverted, glued on top of a larger saucer, also inverted. You can use tacky glue to glue them together. It works well on the porous terra cotta.

Then, you paint them with acrylic paint. Paint the inside or the edges in different colors if you like.

Then, tie strands of raffia, twine or fuzzy yarn around the center and tie them in a bow. I also added a bead or two to the ends of the strands and wrapped wire around the center and added beads. Curl up the ends of the wire to hold the beads in place.

Make one for each person's table setting or put a row down the center of the table. Make them up in different sizes. And, don't make them just for fall festivities or upcoming holidays, they look great out on the patio or deck in the summer.

Happy crafting!

Terry

Harvest in the Design Garden

2009-10-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

Howdy!

Fall is bringing in a harvest of designs and projects that have been waiting all year to come to fruition. Good things are coming out of the design garden after a slow year of growth and a long season of patiently watching and waiting. It brings a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment to see that hard work pays off. It gives me hope that the next season will bring better things.

In the meantime, here's my newest design on the Amate Studios website. It's a western theme this month. Of course, when I think western, I think of turquoise. I used chips in this design, which makes it less expensive. Check out the fun western designs from the other Design Team members and make one up for your next hoedown!

Terry

Fall Colors

2009-09-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

Isn't fall wonderful! I love the sweet damp smell of the leaves after a rain, warm afternoons, and, of course, all the beautiful colors that appear when the green leaves start losing their chlorophyll. Oops, sorry, I went from poet back to my biology degree roots!

I love designing in those colors--warm reds and golds, rich brown and coppery orange. And, I was delighted to see that the Beading Daily email today had a glimpse of my necklace that will be published in the fall issue of Stringing magazine. I'm really excited that I have a necklace that was accepted into this magazine. I've had small designs in it before, but never a necklace. It's a magazine that is so beautifully presented that it's a pleasure to be included. It will be in the stores in early October, but here's a sneak peek!

My inspiration for this necklace was a walk along a path through the woods, leaves littering the ground. I used wavy bronzite ovals for the path. And, the pressed glass leaves with their multitude of colors are a perfect expression of the colors of fall.

Happy Fall,

Terry

Back to School!

2009-09-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

Summer's over and it's back to school! And, just in time are some new projects for September at Amate Studios. I've never seen so many cute pendants! I want to try them all!

My design is a little different than those. I wanted to design something that the kids could hang on their backpacks. So, I used the pendant form for a clip-on spirit tag. It's easy and inexpensive enough for a whole group of kids to make for a rally or game. Or, you can modify the theme and use it for scouting or church groups.

Keep on crafting and learning!

Terry

PS Did you notice that I learned something new? On the left hand side of the blog is a new feature that I have named "Links I Like". Coming soon is a listing of great products and fabulous designers.

2009-08-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

Bracelets are fun. I don't wear them enough because when you work (and talk) with your hands, they can get in the way! But, they are surely fun to create.

You can experiment with different color combinations or new materials without the time and expense of creating a full-length necklace. And, they make great gifts. Here's one I created for Amate Studios for August. I love this mix of buttons, not only for the colors, but for the interesting textures.

Here's another bracelet using the Amate Studios bracelet forms. My youngest daughter, the world traveler of our family, recently returned from a trip to Europe. She brought me some tea from London in these little boxes with maps of the London Underground subway on them. So, I cut little ovals from the boxes and glued them into the bracelet trays and covered them with some Diamond Glaze. It makes a great souvenir of the trip.

So, think about what you've brought back from a recent trip. It might make a great souvenir bracelet. Pieces of a map, photos, small charms, tickets or passes from an event, a bit of stone--all these could be combined in a souvenir bracelet that reminds you of the wonderful memories of your vacation.

Happy crafting,

Terry

Take your crafting outdoors!

2009-07-30T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

I'm taking my projects outdoors to the patio table--and, it's not just to avoid straightening the studio or because I've run out of usable surface space! Well--maybe!

Ever since the tree outside the studio window has leafed out, the light has diminished considerably. It feels freer and less confining outside than in the house. And, it surely is easier to see the little holes in the beads out here!

Mornings are usually best for me. The temperature is mild and the light is great. Summer's lovely shades of green and colorful flowers ar a great source of inspiration. Occasionally, a bright butterfly flits among the flowers or a hummingbird hovers nearby. Hmm, what about a necklace in hummingbird colors--iridescent greens and bright pinks!

If you're not beading, a chair in the shade on a summer afternoon is a great place to crochet or knit. A glass of lemonade or iced tea, and you're set for a couple of hours. The only thing you have to fight is the tendency to take a nap!

Happy crafting in the fresh air!

Terry

Summer Designs at Amate Studios

2009-07-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hello crafters!

I can't believe how fast the summer is going. I'd better get to posting before it's over!

The summer designs are up at Amate Studios and, as usual, there is a wonderful assortment of great designs available to try. Look for my new designs under the Blog and under the July listing. Here's a photo of the barrette that I did for them. It's in a country style to which I always seem to return. I guess I'm just a country girl at heart!

They have so many different pieces at Amate Studios that I'm glad I get a whole year to create designs for them. As it is, I have so many ideas, I don't know which one to try next! So many possibilities!

Here's the little Flower Pendant that I created for July. It's on a pendant with a hole in the middle that is meant for a frame. I inserted screen in the hole, added flowers and a little ladybug.

Hope you all are enjoying the summer! Take your crafting outside and enjoy the wonderful weather and bright light that makes crafting so much easier.

Happy crafting!

Terry

2009-06-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

It's finally here--summer! And, to celebrate the season, I've got a couple of free projects for you: fun summer-inspired tags. These are mixed-media tags that you can use in multiple ways. Clip them on a beach bag, hang them around a vase, use them as a pendant or glue them into a collage. They're easy and I'm not going to give you exact amounts on the materials. But, I will have links to everything in case you can't find them where you live. The rest, I leave to your creativity!

First of all, paint a large wood tag. The seahorse is on a 5" tag, and the fish is on a 3" tag. I painted them with some acrylic paint in a turquoise blue.

Step Two: Trace around the tag onto the back of the adhesive-backed fabric. This beautiful blue and green aquatic print is from Batik-It by Princess Mirah. I just love the colors! Cut out the fabric, peel off the backing and apply the fabric to the tag. I only covered one side, but you could cover both if you like.

Step Three: Condition some polymer clay. The seahorse is a green clay; the fish is a little more complicated with a couple of blue colors kneaded together for a marbled look. Knead a small amount of two colors together, then slice into the ball to find the marbling that you like. Slice a piece of clay about the depth of the mold and press it into the mold. Carefully, remove the excess. With these molds from Krafty Lady Art Moulds(C), you don't have to take the clay out to bake it. Isn't that cool! I don't play with clay much, but I think that is a great idea. I have a tendency to mess up the molded piece if I try to remove it from the mold. Follow the directions on the clay for baking times.

Step 4: While the clay is baking and cooling, wrap the tags with wire. This wire is Fun Wire(TM) from Toner Crafts. It's easy to work with--you can use your fingers, although a pair of round nose pliers is helpful in starting the coils. Wrap the wire around the tag and connect it to itself once or twice. Coil the ends. To get the jogs in the wire, grab it with a pair of pliers and give it a little twist. This adds an interesting look and also tightens it around the tag.

Step 5: Glue the molded clay piece on top of the wire with hot glue or a jewel glue. Glue on a few jewels or charms. Glue an eyelet in the hole of the tag. Add highlights with a paint pen. The seahorse has gold paint pen highlights. String the tag as you wish depending on where you want to hang it.

Here's where you can find some of the materials I used in case you can't find them locally:

Wood tags: http://www.larascrafts.com/

Wire: http://www.tonercrafts.com/

Clay molds: http://www.kraftylady.com.au/

Batik-It squares: http://www.joggles.com/

I hope you enjoyed this fun summer craft!

Happy crafting!

Terry

PS Watch for some new summer projects at http://www.amatestudios.com/.

Father's Day Key Ring

2009-06-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Hi crafters!

Here's a project for Father's Day that I created for Amate Studios. It uses one of their pendant forms in copper. I wanted to do something a little different for Father's Day--something that a guy might use more than jewelry. So, I combined the pendant with a binder ring, layered in some painted Grungeboard(TM), added some letters and a charm and made a key ring.

If you don't want the word "keys" on the ring, put dad's initials or a short name. You could use any type of letters for the ring; I think typewriter key letters would also look great. It's a quick and easy gift for dad or hubby. Don't you love that? They are so hard to shop for!

Happy crafting!

Terry

PS Take a look at all the other great projects from the Design Team for June and July at www.amatestudios.com.

The Benefits of Crafting

2009-05-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

A small group of friends gets together at my house once a month. It's like an old-fashioned quilting bee, except we're not working on one big project. We each bring whatever handcraft we happen to be working on--knitting, hand-sewing, crochet, beading.

Lately, many of us are knitting. There are those of us who are learning the basics, re-learning what we once knew, and those who are expert enough to teach. We talk patterns and yarn in between news of family and the latest books read. We inspire, comfort and affirm each other. We share the joy over the good news and commiserate on the bad. We create gifts for family and friends and items to decorate our homes.

I keep reading more and more about the benefits of crafting. The scientific community is starting to study the effects and finds that it promotes learning in children, quiets the brain like meditation with its focused, repetitive motions, and may even help the elderly retain their memory. Of course there is much more anecdotal evidence than scientific--which means that you and I knew it all along!

We know the benefits, because we live them. Crafting promotes friendships, keeps arts and crafts alive, reduces stress and, in general, is a low cost alternative to other forms of entertainment. And, although it's fun by yourself, it's even more fun with friends!

Happily crafting,
Terry

Welcome!

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

Welcome to my blog!

I'm a craft and jewelry designer who has been creating designs for publication for about 20 years. It's the best "job" I've ever had! It started out as a part time job so that I could stay home while the kids were little and, over the years, blossomed into a full-time occupation.

I love to play and experiment with craft materials and media of all kinds--from crystals to craft foam, plastic canvas needlepoint to wirework! You can see my design for a painted tote bag embellished with buttons in the July issue of Pack-o-Fun. And, I have a wind chime design in copper wire and beads in the summer issue of Bead Unique. My latest booklet in plastic canvas needlepoint is Liquid Soap Covers from Annie's Attic. That's my style--I love all kinds of crafts.

Recently, I was selected to be a member of the Design Team for Amate Studios(TM). They produce jewelry blanks that can be filled with just about anything. Not sure what a jewelry blank is? It's a pendant or link or ring with a tray or flat area that you can fill. Check out their website: www.amatestudios.com. I am really excited about all the possibilities that these blanks hold, and look forward to the oppurtunity to design with them.

I hope you'll stop by my blog often. I hope to share some techniques, tips, links to amazing designers and their websites, and a free item from my crafty stash of stuff once in awhile.

Happy crafting!
Terry