Crafting with Mawmaw Becky

Welding Caps Instructions again

2012-01-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

I told you last time I would get together instructions for you and I had an awful time trying to get the pattern where you can just print it out. The best I can do is direct you to 2010 posts where I gave you the directions as well as the pictures of the pattern.
I am sorry about it but I am not tech savvy enough to to it any other way.
If some time in the future I figure it out, I'll post it.

Until then here are the pattern pieces and I"ll try to walk you through this.

You will need 4 fat quarters or about 18" of two co ordinating fabrics. Cotton works best.

You will need to cut 2 fronts, 2 backs, 2 side panels, 2 bills and 1 bill piece from felt or fleece and 2 strips for the cap band measuring about 34 -36 inches.

Hopefully you have sewing experience. Sew the bill together using 3 pieces 1 for the outside,the felt or fleece for the padding and 1 for the inside of cap.

* I make mine so they are reversible, Using 1 design on the outside and another design for the inside. After you sew the bill together you then treat the rest of the sewing like you are working on just 1 cap (You will see why in a mionute)

I sew a front and a back to the side panel and do it again then sew the 2 sections together matching up edges. I pin the finished bill piece to the edge of the front pieces then I sew the band to the lower edge around the whole cap. You will need to do some adaptations when you get near the end so the band will need to be sized up and trimmed as you finish it.

Npw do this again for your inside cap.

You will then do the exact same steps for the inside of cap.

Second to the Last step: Place the inside and outside caps together right sides touching And sew around the whole thing leaving a couple inches open for turning.

Turn the cap outside right through the opening and do a stay stitch around the whole cap.

Done.

In the mean time if you can print it and work with it let me know how you did, I would love to see pictures.

Here's a tip, if you have an old baseball hat laying around try looking at it to see how it's put together. You could even tear it up and work with it as a pattern.

I hope this tut helps, I'm sorry it's the best I could give you for now.
Until next time happy crafting peoples.

Welding Caps Revisited

2011-12-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

Over the last 2 months I have had 184 requests for a paper pattern for my welding cap tutorial. And that is just in the last 2 months. Unfortunately I donot have the means or time to send these out through the mail. That's alot of stamps and envelopes. I have a tut on my tutorial site that everyone is free to use. It is for a do rag. After Christmas I will get a tutorial together for the welding caps or at least try to. I am not real good with figuring out how to make a pattern that you can print off and not have to worry about the sizing. If you are interested my site is http://itsmybag.myeweb.net
I hope this helps and am truely sorry that I cannot send everyone a written pattern personally.
I will be updating soon. Until then Merry Christmas!

In Love With Felt

2011-12-02T16:58:00.000-08:00

I know it has been months since I posted but you know how life gets in the way.

Recently I started crafting for the holidays. And money being in short supply this year I decided to make it a homemade Christmas. So I needed some little toys to add to the pound puppies I made. I started searching for ideas and found 2 really cute free instructions to make owls from felt. Downloaded the patterns and since I already had some felt, made the little owls.

I can say officially I have fallen in love with those little felt squares you can buy by the piece or in 12 packs at Michaels and Walmart.

Turned out cute or at least I think so. So off to Michaels I went. Picked up about 12 in different colors. And made 2 more in blue this time.

Then as I was browsing the web like I often do in search of more little felt friends I had an idea. Why not download coloring pages and use them as patterns. This has worked beautifully.

I have used more owls , an elephant, a chick, a bear and a few others to add to my pattern collection for little felt friends. I also came across a cute little primative pouch holding a stuffed heart with scrabble tiles used to make cute sayings like "love much". The web site wanted over 10.00 each. Since I had about a hundred scrabble tiles sitting in my glass tile jewelry making box. I knew I could make these. But when it came down to putting a stuffed heart in these I thought it could be of more use with maybe coasters in the pouch. Drew out 8 circles and made 4 coasters to go into each pouch. I have now made 7 of these. Trouble was after 3 I didn't have any usable letters left in my pile. I used 1/2 inch letters on the backside of the tiles and that was perfect. I also have made 15 scarfs from fleece and used felt stars, flowers or hearts to embellish the scarves. I"ll do a post on these later.

I will try to set up a tutorial if anyone is interested. Well until next time happy crafting.

Where does the time go?

2011-03-06T06:38:00.001-08:00

Where does the time go? It has been almost 9 months since I posted. Is that possible? I bet you all forgot about me. I have been busy with work, making things for baby showers and just plain ol being lazy. Yes you can be busy being lazy. Here it is March and looking out the window to snow coming down. Darnit I had plans for the day that did not include snow.

Anyways, both my daughter and daughter in law have decided to do their livingrooms and kitchens in primative. I browsed the web and came across alot of wonderful prim designs. These little star wall hangings will fit the bill nicely. I traced out some stars like these and cut about 1 dozen in 2 diffenert sizes. Now if I can get my hubby to get his dremel and some sand paper out of his building... I plan on painting them, sanding them alittle and hang them with some old wire. Then I'll add a saying on each one. Hopefully I'll be able to post pictures when I get them done. I lost my camera cable and have no idea where it can be. Living in a very small house you tend to lose things in all the clutter. I know I should throw stuff away but I always think I might need it later. No I'm not a hoarder per say. But I have a really hard time throwing away craft supplies. I will eventually use them. I have things for years and not use them then one day I'll decide to do that particular craft again and I dont have to go buy that many supplies because I saved the bulk.

Been gone way too long

2010-06-19T17:29:00.000-07:00

Wow has it really been almost 2 months since I last posted. Sorry about that. I seem to be in a funk right now. I did buy and make a few of the glass tile jewelry necklaces. Thet turned out really cute. I really need to post pictures of them. I'll try to do it soon. I am stuck in a rut and have been playing those silly games on FaceBook. If you are a Facebook person then you know the ones I'm referring. I got started a couple of months ago when a co worker kept badgering me to join Farmville and be his neighbor. I finally gave in and it has become almost an obsession. Farmville, Petville, Zoo Paradise, Island Life, Frontierville, not to mention the dozen I finally quit. It has taken over my life. I have to get busy on making things so plan on giving up all but two maybe three of them. I really like Farmville and Frontierville and my grandkids keep asking me not to quit them. You know what a pushover I am with them. Anyways, I'll try to keep you updated more often. Well, I need to go check my crops on Farmville. LOL I'll see ya soon. Until then....,. happy crafting.

My newest venture

2010-05-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

My Newest Craft Hopeful.... Scrabble Tile Jewelry.
This is a beautiful example of tile jewelry. These belong to Victoriasgould at ArtFire.

I have in the last couple of days started thinking about starting my crafting for the fall craft shows. Now to be honest with you, I haven't done any crafting or sewing for several months. I'm funny like that. I will go months and months crafting or sewing then suffer serious burnout and completely stop doing any of it for a couple of months.

So trying to decide something that people would like to buy, cost effective, looks professional after it's completed and that is interesting or fun to work on is a big factor.

I know that I will be doing tutus again only this time I know to do lots of pinks and purples.

I will not be making shoes since I have alot of those left from last year.

I am thinking of doing tile jewelry. Although I've never done any. I am intrigued with this technique and the simplicity of making these. If there is a paper or card out there with a design you like you can make it into a beautiful piece.

I'll let you know when I get to do some.

Welding Cap Directions

2010-03-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

Okay after waiting forever, here is the directions for putting the welding cap together.
You need two fat quaters, either contrasting or co-ordinating fabrics.
First you need to cut out 2 of each pattern pieces for the sides, back and again for the front and 1 strip of fabric for the headband and 1 for the bill.
You will have a total of 8 pieces for each color fabric.
Now sew 1 front piece to the side and 1 back piece to the other side of the side piece. Do it again with the remaining 3 pieces per color. Then place the panels together right sides together lining up your seams. Sew along the rounded edge fron end to end. This is the beanie cap. Now sew the strip for the band along the lower edge.
You will then repeat all steps to your contrasting or co-ordinating fabrics.
To make the bill you will place a bill pattern piece down on top of the contrasting bill piece right sides together. Sew all along the round edge. Turn right side out and press. Pin the bill raw edge against the outside raw edge of one of the finished cap edges upside down.
Place the other finished cap right side against the other. Sew together leaving an opening about 3 inches unsewn. Pull the entire cap through the opening. Adjusting and finger press the cap band and sew along the whole entire cap edge to close up the opening and give it a finished appearance. Now you're done.

My Biggest Apologies to Everyone

2010-02-07T16:52:00.000-08:00

I owe everyone a Huge Apology.... First because I haven't kept up with the comments. Secondly because I told everyone last year when I posted the welding caps, that if they emailed me, I would send them the pattern to the welding caps. Stupidly thinking that comments would be send to my inbox. So here I am with mud on my face.

So to make it up to everyone... I will post a tutorial with step by step pictures on here in the next couple of days. I would do it tonight but it's late and I have to be up very early (4:00 am) to go to work. I'm sorry for the confusion (mostly on my part).
I will try to email people that sent in a comment.
Huggles,
Becky

Beer Carton Cowboy Hat

2010-01-19T16:06:00.000-08:00

Although I donot drink beer, I was asked to try to do a cowboy hat made from the empty beer cartons several years ago when recycled crafts were all the rage. Recycled hats, recycled juice pouch purses and accessories. Everyone wanted to learn how to make purses from empty juice pouches like capri sun and Koolaid juice pouches. Then people got even more creative and started making purses, hats and accessories out of just about anything you can think of potato chip bags, pepsi cartons sandwiched between clear vinyl,dog food bags, coffee sacks, even beer cartons... like this cowboy hat. People were selling these at craft shows for around 25.00 to 35.00. This actually is made from 2 beer cartons. I fiddled with several before I was able to make it. I posted a tutorial on my tut site; if interested you can find the step by step instructions free www.itsmybag.myeweb.net
Yes some say they are a bit tacky but rednecks up my way love this stuff. You know someone like that... beer drinkin, truck drivin, fun lovin, just a good ol' boy.

A Money Tree

2010-01-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

I love making these. Can't figure out what to get that special person as a gift. So you decided to give them money. Well make them a money tree. It's easy to do and quite the crowd pleaser. I made this one for my nephew. I took a fallen branch from the yard (about 18" tall), I added some metal garland sold at the Dollar Tree for 1.00. I wrapped all the branches with this then I added flowers to every other branch with hot glue. Planted it into a piece of styrafoam and placed it into a cheap clay pot about $1.00. Then I added some peat moss which I hot glued in place. Next I pleated about 10 one dollar bills and 2 five dollar bills and used some floral wire to tie them onto the branches of the tree.
I have in the past glued those chocolate money coins on the branches as well.
If you are going to do one. Think up themes and try to add the themed items to the tree as well. If you are doing one for a golfer... you could attach a few golf balls to the base and attach the tees by dangling them from the branches. If you know a kid or grown up who is crazy for cars. Dangle some match box cars from the branches. You are only limited by your imagination.

Angel Cross Stitching

2010-01-09T14:23:00.000-08:00

I began cross stitching years ago but only do it from time to time. I made this little bag for my oldest granddaughter to carry. First I cross stitched by hand on Ada then used the panel and fabric. Just did a quick casing top and ran a ribbon through to use as handles. She said she liked it but she is almost 13 and into a bit more adult themes. Oh well I enjoyed making it. I have had an embroidery machine for several years now but I still like to do it by hand in front of the TV sometimes. Most of the time when you google embroidery patterns you get machine embroidery designs. There are less and less hand embroidery designs available as time goes by. Does that mean that it to is a dying art like sewing? Life has become so convenient and hurried that no one wants to learn the art of crafting. In my job place out of a few hundred people you can count on one hand the people who actually sewing or so do any hand crafts. This is so sad and I think it has also caused the price of fabrics, threads and yarns to become pricey. Not enough people doing it for the companies to make alot of money without charging an arm and leg. If you are a sewist (sounds better than sewer) how many times have people found out you can sew and hit you up to do alterations and mending for them. And if they offer to pay you ... it's no where near what you should get for your services. Funny how every body wants you to do it just not willing to pay what you're worth. Would they go into Olen Mills or a mechanics shop and ask they to do a job for them and then give them some sort of monetary compensation? I think not!

Okay... I'm climbing down off my soap box.

Christmas Totes

2010-01-08T16:45:00.000-08:00

I haven't done any crafting since Christmas... maybe burn out at the moment. I think I spend so much time the last 6 months of the year getting ready for the craft shows and then Christmas that I usually take a month off before the urge to craft hits me again. Anyways I thought I'd share with you some things I've done Like my Christmas totes. I made the blue snowman tote for my daughter and the red one for my Mom for Christmas. Of course they got them early in December so they could use them before it was over. I usually draft out my own patterns so these were 12" tall by 14" wide by 3" deep. They look taller in the picture. They are lined with pockets and have a magnetic snap closure. The trim is crocheted fun fur yarn sewn on. Matching checkbook covers and change purses complete the onsom. They loved them. If I had been thinking I would have embroidered Mom's name along the bottom but oh well.....

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T16:17:00.000-08:00

Well another year has come and gone. This being the 30th. Did you do everything you wanted to this year? I most certainly didn't. But the good thing is Friday starts the beginning of a new year and all the possibilities.
Do you have your resolutions ready? Mine are simple.... loss weight, try to save a few bucks and be more open to people and things. I plan on trying to sew at least 15 minutes a day. Don't sound like much but you would be suprised just what can get accomplished in so little effort and time.
I also want to try to learn a new craft. Like I really need to spend more on craft supplies (which have almost taken up the entire house). I also am going to try to clean on the house 30 minutes or so a day. Even when the crafting bug has got me. Well anyhow, just wanted to wish everyone a Very Happy New Year! Be careful and be safe.
Huggles until next year...

Twilight Tote

2009-12-13T16:27:00.000-08:00

Well I finally finished the Twilight Tote for my granddaughter. I bought a Twilight calendar and cut out the pictures. I then sandwiched them between heavy clear vinyl I bought at Walmart. Sewed them up like you would a juice pouch purse. I then added a large grommet to either side and threaded strapping into the grommets. I did made a big mistake, if you look at the side of the first picture you will see how the vinyl slid as I was sewing it together. If you have ever worked with vinyl you know how unforging it can be. Once sewn you can not pick the stitches out and resew them. and you have to use a vinyl foot or a walking foot to get the vinyl to slide through.
Edward is on one side, Bella is on the other. The sides have all the characters and the inside is Edward and Jacob.
Even with the mistakes I hope she likes it.
I did find several Twilight purses on the web but didn't want to pay their prices.
I am thinkiing of making a matching change purse to go with it... we'll see.

A Little Down

2009-12-05T11:39:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning to this outside my front door. Had my day all planned but sadly it's not happening. Although the roads appear to be fine my dear hubby is terrified of driving in the snow. My daughter is having a dessert swap party this evening, my car is broke down and I can not drive my hubby's truck so.... I am sitting here feeling a bit sorry for myself.

Although the snow is gorgeous, earlier it looked like a winter wonderland but we were not expecting quite so much of the stuff.

At least it's the weekend and there are not too many travellers.

I was hoping for a great weekend with my birthday tomorrow. Oh well.....

Happy Thanksgiving and Twilight

2009-11-22T15:50:00.000-08:00

With all the hectic activities this week... I did want to get on here today and wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I haven't done alot of crafting lately. Can't seem to get in the mood. I have so much crafting to do before Christmas but I don't want to do it. Have you had days, weeks or months like that?
I did go Christmas shopping today. Managed to get something or two for all the grandchildren, my daughter and my Mom and Dad.
I did buy everything for the Thanksgiving feast. Although I won't be cooking at home this year. Since my son is going to his in laws for Thanksgiving, doing some hunting too. We will be going to my daughters for Thanksgiving. Hopefully we will get a chance to go to Mom's too.
It's a shame to cook for days and days and eat it all in an hour or two. The cost is aweful too.
My daughter and I split the items for the meal so it didn't cost an arm and leg. But it is still too expensive.
**********
Did anyone get a chance to go see Twilight's New Moon this weekend?
My granddaughter is a huge fan (Twihards) is the new term I believe. One step higher than a twilighter. Anyways, all her friends had plans and she was so excited to see it. Her Mom didn't want to go.... So she called me and asked if I would like to see it with her. I jumped at the chance. Not because of the movie but getting to spend time with her. To be a part of her world even for a short time. Now understand my granddaughter and I are very close but to a 12 year old I at 50 am ancient.
Hot Topics called her name ... so we went to the mall before the movies. I did get a few hints as to Christmas presents.
Although I have not seen the first Twilight, I must say I did enjoy the movie.
The teens in the movie are a bit sadder than I like, brooding and deep but I can see why so many teen plus are drawn into the plot and characters. All in all a good time with her.

I purchased a Twilight calendar the other day and will be trying my hand at making her a Twilight purse. If I manage it I'll post the outcome.
Well untill next time....
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and try not to eat until you explode.

Christmas Tutu Dress

2009-11-10T15:34:00.000-08:00

I found the cutest tutu dresses online. They were so expensive I decided to make one myself. I made this for my youngest granddaughter to wear for her birthday or for Christmas dinner with the family. We tried it on her.... it fit perfect and she looked sooooo cute.
The only problem is she refuses to wear it. She throws a fit every time we try to get her to wear it. Evidently she hates red. She loves the purple tutu I made her. Now I wish I had made it in purple. I had made a headband and a matching pair of wings too. You know anyone who would like to buy a tutu dress that fits a 2 to 3 year old with wings and a flowered headband for 30.00 plus shipping? If so... send me a comment and I'll get back to you.

Creating with food

2009-11-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

Someone recently sent me an email and got me thinking. People with too much creativity and too much time on their hands. I have done simple food arts like a cucumber shark, a palm tree made from a carrot and green pepper and of course tomato roses. But nothing prepares you for these creations. Who comes up with these? Of course one would have to have some type of sculpting abilities (which I don't) to master several of these. I think I'll stick to my sewing.

If you know of the person responsible for these creations please let me know so I can give them credit.

New Addition and Tutorial

2009-10-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

We have a new addition to our family. My hubby got him for me as a present. Picture of him is after the tutorial. The cell phone is for size comparison.
He is a 10 week old weenie dog. My youngest granddaughter gave us his name. So meet "Puppy".
Not very imaginative but cute none the less.
He is so full of himself and loves cuddles and kisses.
So now comes the (Fun ? ) part. House breaking him and training him one a leash.
We went last night to buy a collar but didn't have any luck so I thought until I train him, I'll just make him one. This would never hold a grown dog but is ideal for a puppy.

How to make a collar for a new puppy:
First find a scrap of fabric you like. Measure around the puppy's neck and add 1 inch. My puppy's neck measures 7 inches, so I cut a strip 8" x 2 inches. I also cut some Ultra Firm interfacing the same length. Next step: fold the fabric around the interfacing equally.

Then you fold the whole length in half and pin in place to hold.

I then sewed a 2 inch strip and placed it with the edges inside the folded strip. This will form the loop to latch the leash on. Sew up the length of the folded strip keeping close to the edge.

I then remeasured it (I got it way too long). I added a small strip of velcro to one side and to the out side of the other side. I hope that makes sense.

And there you go.... a training collar for your littlest addition.
I'll post a picture as soon as I can to show you just how cute he is in his new collar.

Half way into October

2009-10-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

I've been gone for a little over a month. I needed to get some things sorted out in my life. I know we all have times that seem almost overwhelming and that was my life for awhile. I have not done alot of crafting this past month. I've been looking alot just not doing.
I did the fall festival and it went really well. I sold almost all my tutus and all of the marshmallow guns. Plus I am still working on orders from the show. I was a little disappointed in not selling any of the bibs and bears or bonnets. But I guess people were just not in the market for these at this time. I had made plenty of aprons but so did alot of other booths. Last year not one booth had an apron to be found. There was plenty of primitive art but no one was buying them. I do think 65.00 for a small primitive doll is a little much. I know alot of work goes into them but in this economy people are not willing to spend like that. At least not in this area.
I've also taken some purse orders and welding cap orders. Finished 2 of the orders this week.
I've been wanting to find a new craft and will be posting when I find and finish one.

It's half way into October and so it's time to really start working on holiday crafts, decorations and Christmas gifts. One year I made all the kids stuffed dogs, one year I made everyone a quilt, one year I made everyone an embroidered scarf, last year it was everyone jewelry sets.
I can't figure out what I want to make this year but I know I need to figure it out in a hurry.
Until next time.... Take care and craft-craft-craft.

Let's have a Labor Day Party

2009-08-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

Here it is the last day of August. Where did the summer go? One last time to have a party before we get back into the work and school routines. I was looking for some cute ideas to use as party favors and found these on Ebay. These would be easy to do... purchase a dozen or so of these plastic parfait tumblers and 2 or so dozen washcloths, some contrasting or matching ribbon and a few fake pieces of fruit. Although you could use Femo clay and make your own fruit. Twist the washcloths together. Wrap with the ribbon and place them into the tumblers. Add a plastic spoon or those twisty straws. You now have some adorable party favors for that end of summer Labor Day Party or Picnic. These would also be quite appropriate for birthday parties. Forgo the napkins and let them use these.
As I always say... you have to love the ingenuity of people. I have no imagination to come up with these ideas but I can usually figure out how they did it and make my own. Can you believe we only have less than 4 months until Christmas? That is amazing! I'm not sure exactly what I'll do for Christmas this year. Going to have to search the web for some frugal Christmas ideas. I heard that the U.S. is running out of sugar. Can't make holiday cookies and sweets without sugar. I'm going to have to stockpile sugar for the holidays I guess. It has already began to get more expensive.

Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

2009-08-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

For those of you who like recipes I found a great one for PeanutButter Cookies
3 ingredients is all it takes.

1 cup of peanut butter (crunchy or smooth)
1 egg (beaten)
1 cup of sugar ( I prefer Dominos)

Mix the 3 ingredients together. Form dough into teaspoon size balls.
Place on a greased cookie sheet. Press down with a fork.
Bake about 10 minutes or so, until light or golden brown (your preference)
in 350* degree oven.
Allow to cool slightly then remove from sheet pan.

I know it sounds weird but it works and tastes great.

Got a Bee in My Bonnet

2009-08-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

You could say I have a Bee in my bonnet cause I have been as busy as a bee making do-rags and bonnets this week. Just some more things for the craft shows coming up. I'm not sure about bonnets around the fall time of year but do-rags sell well here in West Virginia. I am the only one here that sells a larger size do-rag. Most of the do-rags you buy don't really fit a larger head or head with hair. My sister not too long ago asked me to make her several for someone she knows that has a ton of hair and the regular sizes just wouldn't fit him. So I drew up a larger one and they sell well. If you would like the pattern you can go to my tutorial site and download your own to make. It's over on the right side of screen here.

And just to let those of you who have been following this for awhile. My niece's baby shower was the other day. It was a lovely shower. My sister did all the decorations. Most from balloons. She did one of those balloon arches over the gift table. She also did a balloon topiary tree center piece for each table. That was really cool looking. She took a piece of 6" x 6" wood, drilled a small hole in the center then put a length of dowel rod in the center. She then attached balloons in several section along with ribbon and added a balloon animal that she did herself. I was really impressed with the balloon animals (Tigger, Pooh, weenie dogs, elephants and a few more). She got the directions for them on youtube.
It's amazing what one can find on youtube. Every time I look for an idea, I go there and find something worth the trip.

Too Much to do and so little time....

2009-08-19T16:04:00.000-07:00

There is too much to do and so little time to get it done. If my day was only a few hours longer or I required a little less sleep.

I am almost ready for the fall show.

Here I have made a few little cold weather caps and matching booties.

The cap is so easy to make. Simply start with a double layer of fleece measuring 7 inches across and 11 high now round off the top of it to make a cap. Sew all along the sides leaving the bottom open. Turn right side out and fold up to form the brim. Tack in place... you're done!

Fleece is very stretchy so the tiny little cap will fit a newborn up to about a 1/2 year. Fleece comes in so many gorgeous patterns and colors it can become addicting.

Trying My Hand at a Diaper Car

2009-08-05T17:03:00.000-07:00

I saw something like this similar online several weeks ago and was telling my Mom just how cute I thought it was. Mom needed a baby shower gift so asked me to make one for her to give. After studying the picture for a bit I came up with this little cutie. Actually it's not so little. It contains 56 diapers, 2 bottles, a pair of baby footies, 2 recieving blankets, a fleece blanket, a tub of wipes, a nipple and cap holder for the dishwasher and a bib I made.
It did take some time and a few trys but here it is. I also couldn't figure a way to keep the tires on without tying them on.
I don't know what possesses me at times. I always feel like I need to be creating something. Feeds a need I have wanting to be useful, I guess.

Starting to Sell

2009-07-31T18:00:00.000-07:00

I took a tutu to work to show it off. And made 3 sales. WooHoo! So I decided to try selling them on Crobbies. That's www.crobbies .com. They are set up just like etsy and ebay. You post info and pictures of items you have made and try to sell them. Though unlike ebay you have to have made the item to sell on Crobbies. There are hundreds of tutus on ebay and several dozen on etsy. But I could find none on crobbies. Wish me luck in my newest endeavor. I 'll be back in a day or two with a new item I've made.

Tutu Cute

2009-07-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

This is tutu cute. I finally got my youngest granddaughter over to the house and we had picture day. One is a picture of the tutu I showed here earlier and the other is a shorter tutu. I'm amazed when you put something as cute and girly as a tutu on even someone so young, their whole perspection changes. Fun and free. Flowing layers of soft tulle transforms a young girl into a princess or ballerina. She ran and played and had a wonderful time. I am so glad we did it. Although I have to admit, I wanted perfect pictures and she wasn't having any of it. I have made 7 of these so far. Some longer than others but the beauty is they will all fit a waist 18" to 26". I am working on the head pieces now. Flowers, ribbon and tulle to match each one. I must admit.... I'm addicted!

It's Marzipan, Baby

2009-07-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

Some one sent me an email recently of pictures of things made from marzipan. This is by far the most detailed and adorable thing I have ever seen. The lady (whom ever she may be) formed this precious little baby from just a wad of sugar, shortening and water. Hand painted it with maybe food color or acrylics, I'm not really sure.
I have in the past seen fruits and flowers made from marzipan. They decorate the tops of candies and cakes around the holidays. And yes it is very edible but come on... who could even think of eating this little treasure. It belongs under glass to just adore.
If you are interested in learning marzipan simple do a quick (LOL) search in your web browser.
Type in the words how to make marzipan. You will be shocked at what is available.

Tutu Much

2009-07-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading my blog, you know that I am trying to get ready for a craftshow. I am doing lots of baby and children items for this one. I have been searching the internet for easy cute ideas and came across a no-sew tutu tutorial. This is my first attempt. Lilac tulle intermixed with white tulle. I purchased 4 rolls of white tulle at the Dollar Tree and 2 rolls of lilac tulle JoAnn Fabrics for 2.50 each. I like the rolls of tulle. They come in 6 inch rolls and have about 25 yards of tulle.
I simply cut lengths of 24 inches. Butterfly wrapped each piece around the length of elastic. I used 1 roll of lilac and 1 1/2 rolls of white. The white tulle rolls from Dollar Tree only had 8 yards each. I already had the 1/2 inch elastic and a roll of sheer 1/4 inch ribbon but if you had to buy the ribbon it would cost about .50 cents.
I guess it cost me about $5.00 to make the tutu adding the cost of everything I had and bought. You can get a good tutorial with pictures at GirlyThingBows.com
Cute, cute, cute! I then did a flower headband. A crocheted headband in purple with a bit of tulle glued to it and a pretty purple flower (with the stem removed) glued to that.
Simple and adorable!
There are people who are making a decent living making tuts and headwear. Just look on ebay and etsy and several groups that have forums for people who make these.
So after I got this done I went to Wal-mart and bought several yards of tulle by the yard. I cut the tulle up into strips and began making another one. I did find out that I should have bought at least another 2 yards but I pick it up later next week.
This particular tutu will fit a child age 4 - 6 years. I think I will charge about $20.00 for the set.
Thats alot cheaper than ebay, etsy or the other websites I have been looking at.

Maybe for a bridal shower?

2009-07-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, I was fooling around and made a washcloth Sundae and a washcloth LogRoll. These would be really cute at a bridal shower. Easy peasy to do. Go to the Dollar Tree and pick up a couple packages of the champagne glasses (6 for 1.00) and a couple packages of washcloths.
To make the sundae... make a ball from the washcloth and stuff it inside the glass, add a plastic spoon and a little red pompom. Done! The LogRoll is a brown and a white washcloth rolled up to make a cloth logroll (you know like the chocolate cake rolls in the store). Tie a pretty ribbon around it and there you go. Although I did add a green pompom simply because I like the things.
I am working on washcloth parfaits and washcloth pie slices. I am also trying my hand at diaper cupcakes in a 6 pack package. I'll post them if I get them done to my satisfaction.

Baby Booties Galore

2009-07-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

I have gone Bootie Crazy. These things are addicting. I don't even have a baby to give these to. But I'll just save them until I need them for a baby shower or two. With just a bit of felt and some hand stitching you can create an adorable fashion accessory for the little one in your life. I have had an awful last couple of weeks. With a funeral, a reunion, work and dealing with every day pressures, I'm surprised I have gotten any sewing done. OldSchoolAcres.com has tons of patterns for baby shoes so if you want a pair go check this site out. Of course there are tons of patterns out there if you google them up.
The pair of ballet shoes with matching headband (below) is my own adapted from several patterns I found online. I made them with a animal print cotton, added ribbons for tying. The headband is several layers of ribbon attached to a inexpensive headband I bought at Family Dollar 6 for 3.00. There are several really good sites to teach one how to make a bow or two. Theribbonretreat.com is one of my favorite sites for this.
This little pair of felt booties I embroidered using my regular machine.

This little pair of ballet booties I hand embroidered and used those inexpensive snaps that can be bought on cardboard sheets for under 2.00

This little pair of booties I did the same as the others only this time I sewed a cute little plastic butterfly to each strap.

Dealing with a crisis

2009-06-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I haven't been here for awhile.
We (hubby and family) have been dealing with my father in law's death.
I'll get back to it real soon. I promise. Until then..... be kind to your family and friends. Never go to bed without saying I love you. And remember to give other family members a call to to check in with them.
The finally happens in a blink of the eye.
As we have learned this week losing Ed McManhn, Farrah Fawcet and Micheal Jackson and loved ones.

Bibs and Bears

2009-06-10T17:14:00.000-07:00

You got to love bibs and bears. Bibs that look cute and also protect those so expensive baby clothes. Bibs can be really cheap and so it doesn't matter if you have to throw them away after several or several hundred uses. On the other hand they can cost a small fortune, depending on the name brand or the store where purchased. You can get bibs just about in any store that has a baby section. But I decided to make them for all the baby showers I get invites for.
Okay, I wanted something else to go with the little bib so I drew out this little 6 inch bear. Used matching fabric and embroidered a little face on the bear. Yes, I know the thing is not perfect but did you know that the Amish create a flaw in everything them create. It is their way of remembering that no one is perfect except the Lord.
Well anyways I think it's an adorable set for gift giving.
I've made at least a half dozen of them so far. All in different fabric to match the bib of the moment. I actually have 3 showers coming up really fast. Of course I will be giving other items too. But some of the things I've made have actually been passed down from friends and family children to their children.

Baby Talk

2009-06-07T16:04:00.000-07:00

I've been busy this week getting some things done for the fall craft show. Several pair of felt booties. These are called Chinese Slippers. I hand embroidered around the top and straps with a purple embroidery thread and added velcro for closing. I designed the little bonnet from pictures and it was really easy after I got the correct measuremnets. The baby socks are a bit tricky to hold as you're sewing and I got the ruffle too long but I can fix that. I think the pdf file came from The Ribbon Retreat but I will have too double check it.

I got some instructions for the boutique style bow from Girly-Things and then did my own design. The little slippers came from doing a google for baby booties and then I altered the pattern a bit.

Lost in Cyberspace

2009-06-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

I've been lost in cyberspace for days now. I went to one site to look for a particular pattern and started clicking on the links that were there and have been so caught up in all the blogs and the talent available. It is truely amazing what is out there for all the crafters and non crafters. If you need a purse pattern, something for a baby shower, a wedding gift, birthday gift. Just need something to do. Do you need to know how to fix something, make something. Need a good recipe? Just do a search and you will find hundreds if not thousands of links. If you have been searching for certain craft instructions, you begin to recognize certain sites and peoples regularly.
I have been on here all morning checking out http://blog.craftzine.com
Hundreds of things to look at with alot of directions.
You may have noticed I have added a link section on the right hand side of my blog.
I thought it might be useful to you as well as me.
I have also went to several sites that are in a different language. I have just found out that if you get the url then go to google translate and put that url in, it will translate it into your language. Now that is an awesome tool.
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I am suppose to be sewing today. I have been making lots of baby things for the fall festivals. I have gotta to be quite fast at making baby bibs with matching toys. Burp cloths and baby booties. My next project will be hair bows. But I need to go to Walmart and JoAnn's to get some supplies. I'll be posting pictures of some of my things early next week.

Fire Roasted Corn Soup

2009-06-02T03:13:00.000-07:00

Did I ever tell you I have won awards for my cooking. At the regatta each year here we have a cooking contest. All the local restaurants pick some of their best items and show them off at the civic center. People come from all over the country for our regatta so Thousands of people show up for the "Taste of Charleston".
For the last couple of years my hospital cafe has entered the contest. Since I'm the cafe cook and caterer, it is my food. Anyway I thought you might like the recipe for my soup that won in 2007.

Fire Roasted Corn Soup:
2 cups of fresh or frozen corn
1 cup each of diced celery,onions,carrots
1 can of diced pimentos
1/2 cup of diced red peppers
4 oz. solid pack chicken base (boullion)
1 TBSP. cumin
1 tsp. garlic
1 tsp. cajun seasoning
1/4 tsp. cayenne
salt and pepper to taste
*note: go light on the salt since boullion is salty anyway.

Place all ingredients in large stock pot cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and simmer for 2 hours.
If you have a cream soup base add this to soup using a whisk and following container directions and simmer for 15 more minutes.
If you donot have cream soup base (starter) you can make your own
1 cup milk and 1 cup of flour whisk together and then whisk this into 1/2 cup melted margarine or butter.
Then whisk this roo" into the soup same as if you were adding the cream soup base.

Make a salad and serve with mexican or regular corn bread.
Yummy!!!!

A Good Place To Rest.

2009-05-30T05:47:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I went visiting recently. We went to our son's camp up in Clay,West Virginia.

He own's a bit of land with a very small cabin on it. Such a beautiful, quiet place to visit when things get a bit too stressful. This picture was taken from a small deck over looking the Elk River.

The over hanging trees lent an aura of seclusion. We watched a few fish swim past as well as a snake slithering through the water. We saw deer tracks along the river bank. By the time we left I felt at peace. Boy we're gonna have to do that again real soon. Hubby wants to go fishing there soon. Fine with me. Although I do fish some. I'll take a book and maybe some type of small craft to do and he can fish all day.

New Mother's Day Purse

2009-05-10T16:44:00.001-07:00

Got up this morning and made this small purse. Along with the change purse and travel tissue cover. It took me an hour to draft the pattern and another 2 to make it.
It was fairly easy to make. Cut 2 panels of fabric 11 x 9 for the outer purse and 2 of the interfacing (rounding off the bottom corners). Cut 1 strip 4" by 25" for the gusset and 1 for the interfacing. Cut 1 strip 3" x 24" for the handle and 1 for the interfacing.
This will construct the outer purse. For the lining I cut 2 lining pieces 11 x 9 , 1 strip 4" x 25". And put them together like I did the outer pieces. I did add a pocket inside and a magnetic snap for closure. The tissue pack cover I found at about.com and the change purse is just two squares of fabric with a zippered opening.
I finished it and sat down. Dumped all my things out of my old purse and began filling my new one up. But even after down sizing the new summery purse was still too small for all my things. Such a shame! I guess, I'll be making a larger purse for my self after all. My little Mother's Day purse will be going into my craftshoww bin for this coming September Fall Festival.

Bitty Baby Shoes

2009-05-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

I made another pair of baby shoes. I like making them and think they are really cute but I need to figure out a way to make a lining for the inside. I don't like the way the seams show inside. But they sure are cheap to make. I bought a 9x11 sheet of felt at Walmart for about .39 and made the little flowers from a bit of yarn I had laying around. If you would like to make a pair or two. Simply google your browser "How to make baby shoes", you will get dozens of instructions free.
I believe these were called Chinese Slippers. Although I didn't add the straps to the top.

The Color Of Ribbons

2009-05-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

I was browsing the net today and came across this interesting tidbit.
I had no idea that every color of ribbon meant something.
So for those who didn't know either. Here ya go. Although if you look at the yellow...
I thought it meant something else. And Red means Heart Health.
Also add Red,White and Blue is U.S.A.

Another Outfit

2009-05-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

Made another outfit for the youngest grandbaby. I used the same pattern as the previous picture of outfit. Just changed it up abit. She is growing so fast. My daughter can hardly keep her in clothes. So I went to Walmart and bought several yards of cotton fabric for $2.44 each. So the outfit cost me 2.44 plus tax. Not bad and it took me about 3 hours to make it. I wish I had more time in my day. Like everyone else I guess. I am also trying to work on some craft show items. Every year the fall craft shows sneak up on me so I'm up to midnight crafting for about 2 weeks before. Well, I decided that was not going to happen this year. But you can bet that.... I will be up to midnight every night for about 2 weeks before the shows any way. No matter how much I get done, it would be enough or I'll think it's not.

Making Gifts

2009-04-25T06:03:00.000-07:00

I love making gifts for people. Here is a gift pack I made for a friend. She is all about animal prints. This tote has a hot pink lining with 6 pockets inside and 2 outside. I find it funny how people like different things. Some people would not carry this tote bag if their life depended on it. While others would find this the perfect tote. Fun and wild!
This tote is rather easy. Simply measure 5 inches by 12 inches cut 2 for the top. 6 inches x 12" for the bottom (you then cut out 2 inch squares from either corner on the bottom). The black strips between the zebra print are 1 1/2" x 6" cut 4 of these. The zebra print measures 4" x 6" cut out six of these. Next you would follow the placement of all by looking at my picture.
The lining is made by laying the tote panel down on the lining fabric and using it as a pattern cut out the lining. Add interfacing if you like to make it a bit stiffer. Handles get sandwiched between the outer tote and the lining. This is the accessories I made to go with the tote. A checkbook cover, a large change purse and a travel tissue pack cover. The inside of all also has the hot pink lining. The pattern for the change pursre and the checkbook cover are my own. How hard is it to measure a checkbook cover and copy the dimensions. The change purse was basically measure your zipper and add length to the bottom. The tissue pack cover came from doing a google search. There are tons of free directions for all 3 items on line. Google and search. It sometimes takes a bit to look through a lot of sites but it is always worth the effort.

You Gotta Love Aprons

2009-04-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

I needed an apron. Or did I just want one?

Anyway I decided to make one. I used 2 different but matching fabrics. I cut the apron panel on the fold 18" wide by 20" long. I cut 5 pieces from contrasting fabric the length of fabric by 3 inches. I then started at the left hand corner and measured up 6" and across 6" then rounded the corner off. I did a gathering stitch on the top of the apron panel. Hemmed together 3 of the strips and ran a gathering stitch across that strip. I then hemmed the apron panel and attached the gathered strip around the hemmed bottom. I then sewed the 2 other strips together and pinned and sewed this strip to the top of the apron panel. Folded it over and made my belted tie.

I also added a small pocket to the front of the apron.

I think it turned out really cute but I think next time I will make it shorter.

It turned out looking like a longer version of a french maid apron.

Kinda retro and kicky.

A Baby is coming

2009-04-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

We found out a couple of weeks ago my niece is going to have a baby.

It's always so exciting to find out someone you love is having a baby. I have 4 beautiful grandchildren 2 girls ages 11 and 18 months and 2 boys ages 9 and 6. I am blessed that they are healthy wonder active children. Who love to laugh, cry fight and have fun.

Anyway I thought I'd get started on making her some bibs, burps and other things. I also found a really cute tutorial on making booties for babies too. http://stardustshoes.blogspot.com

So here is a picture of the first one I made. I wanted to see how difficult it was going to be and how big it was after it was finished. Okay so now I guess I better make the second one. Huh?

Easter Dinner

2009-04-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

Here she is in the outfit I made her. Doing her best at removing the headband before I could focus the camera. Hubs and I went to my daughter's for Easter dinner. Her in laws came too.
We made ham, potato salad, mashed potatoes, deviled eggs,baked beans, corn, carrots, gravy and chocolate cake. Funny, Anna (daughter's mother in law) made the same exact thing. All that food for 6 adults and 3 children. We didn't make a dent in all that food. Looks like it's leftovers for the rest of the week.

Tried a Boutique Style Look

2009-04-12T05:33:00.000-07:00

Made my youngest granddaughter a boutique style outfit.

It took about 5 hours to make. It wouldn't have took that long but I was using the serger and broke a thread. Now I have had this serger for over 2 years but never pulled it out of the box until recently. It sat on my sewing table for weeks before I got brave enough to use it.

So when the thread broke I spent about 30 minutes trying to rethread it. I never did get it threaded. I guess I'll try again in a day or two.

The brown fabric I have had for about a year. I was going to make a pair of pants but really didn't get into it. The flower print is a searsucker from Walmart. I only had a 1/2 yard of it.

I appliqued the little heart in the middle of the shirt/dress. I am not a real good appliquer. If you up close you could see a tad bit of raggy edge to the heart.

Oh well, it's an original.

The pattern is "It's So Easy" 2684. But I modified it quite alot.

My Take Everything with me Tote

2009-04-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here is my "Take Everything With Me" Tote I made this weekend. The first picture is the inside, the second pic is the outside. Although it is reversible. I only made pockets for the inside. Hubs and I usually have the grandkids on the weekends and we usually take them places. I needed a new large tote to carry a few diapers, water bottles, a few toys, my stuff ect... I decided I didn't want the usual square tote so I drafted out this pattern and added a few things to it like the border on top, a draw string and the pockets. I am a bit odd some times but I enjoy sewing.

Next I will be making a new purse with matching check book cover and change purse.

Finished My Spring Time Quilt

2009-04-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I finished the spring time quilt just in time to give it to hubs for Easter. Not perfect by far but .... The first picture is the back showing the stitching. You reall can't see the stitching on the front but I hand stitched the center panel and then machine stitched the strips around the outside of panel. I think I like the look of the hand stitching better than the machine stitching.

I used a walking foot on the quilt. It's the first time I've ever used one. I really liked using it. It didn't grap the fabric like a regular foot does.

My Elvis Hobo Bag

2009-03-28T06:05:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my Elvis Hobo Bag. I said the other day I was into the seventies lately well I guess you could include Elvis into that era. Right? Anyway, I drafted my own design and used a fabric from Walmart. The O rings on the handles are actually keyring rings.
I made this purse for around$6.00. That includes 1 yard of fabric $4.44,1 magnetic snap I bought off the net(I bought 25 of them for $14.00), the O rings were from Walmart(a package of 8 were .69).
You can find my tutorial for the hobo bag at my free tutorial website. http://itsmybag.myeweb.net
I love doing tuts and sharing what I can do. I also love looking for information on the web for things I'd like to learn to do.
I ran across a wonderful site last night. http://tipnut.com Although I am still looking through the site, it offers tons of crafting tuts as well as other things you might be interested in.

A Groovy Feeling

2009-03-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

This is my 70's Flashback Purse/Tote. I have had this thing for the seventies lately. I bought a couple of CD's with 60's and 70's music and made this. Maybe I'm showing my age or maybe I am beginning to realize what an unusual period the 70's were. Although I was a teen and believed time stood still. In my life time I have seen Kennedy shot, man landing on the moon, Woodstock, Hippies, Beatniks, cures for polio, the first computers (weighing about a billion tons), the first cell phones (weighing about a billion pounds), the Wall coming down, nuclear bombings, mini skirts, midi skirts, ankle length skirts, sizzlers, the list goes on and on. No other time in history has there been so much achieved. I guess I'm lucky in many respects that I got to see it all unfold not just in the history books.
Anyway back to my purse.... It has pockets on the outside as well as the inside with an magnetic closure. This has become my favorite purse pattern.

Here is the inside of my 70's purse/tote. You can never have too many pockets.

I like making pockets to completely line the inside. Everything has a place.

Another jewelry set

2009-03-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

Made this set the other day. Jade beads, crystal beads, antique caps with wooden leaves. The necklace I put on a satin ribbon.
I love doing jewelry and if you have a variety of beads it's a really quick way to make a matching set for every outfit you have.
I love shopping at Fire Mountain Gems online.
They have the largest varieties I have found on the web and I think the prices are good. But I do shop beads and findings at Walmart as well as JoAnn Fabrics and Michael's. Walmart just recently got in a new shipment and they have some striking pieces right now.

Get Well Card

2009-03-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

Early this year I got interested in making cards.
Here is a card I made for a friend who is in the hospital. The flower medallion came from the site Fred She Said. Some really nice free 3 D sheets are available online free but it does take time to look for them. I spent a lot of time over at PhotBucket browsing through albums. If you are interested in card making and decoupage go to PhotoBucket and reach 3D sheets (images).
It's amazing how talented people are. One of these days I will get me a Photo Shop Pro.
I am not artistic as far as drawing goes but that shouldn't stop me or anyone else from trying.

FingerSkate Cake

2009-03-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Here is the cake I made for my oldest grandson.

Bake a 9x13 cake. Use food color to dye your icing grass green and a small amount dyed black for the lettering and ramp. I iced the cake green putting a big glob in one corner. Then I used the black icing to run a strip down the blob and along the cake to make the ramp. Then I used a grass tip (has a bunch of holes in the tip) and placed the grass around the cake and along the ramp. I bought a cake box and a gold cake board.

I also bought a set of Tech Deck skate boards and put them on the cake ran a green border. Wrote on it and viola!

He loved it. But of course, you can never get a serious picture of him.

If you click on the picture of the cake you can see the details close up.

Update on my Spring Time Quilt plus Girly Party Favors

2009-03-14T04:34:00.000-07:00

I'm working diligently on my spring time/birds with fruit quilt top. Hand work is slow going for me. I work on it every evening for about an hour. I am almost finished with the center piece.

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But I'd like to share a cute party favor idea I did.

I used 2 koolaid drink pouches for each one of these cute little purses. I cut along the bottom rounding them abit then rinsed and dried each one of the pouches. I added a length of thin cording to each side and then sewed from the top of one side around to the other side making a pouch.

Added some beads to a small length at either side. If you look at the picture you can see what I mean.

I then added some candy and stuff to each one.

The girls loved them. LOL I also got some orders from them.

2 years and multiple crafts later

2009-03-06T18:01:00.000-08:00

It has taken me 2 years to get this far on this quilt. I just finished appliquing all the flowers (?) on the backing blocks. Now all I need to do is lay it out layering the batting and back fabric to it. It's a bit larger than I first realized. Each block is 25 inches. I just can't decide if I want to quilt it or tack it.

I have been working on the spring time bird quilt every evening while watching T.V. I have been hand quilting that one. Going around all the birds and fruit. I hope to get that one done in the next month. I plan on giving it to hubby around Father's Day.

One UFO down....

2009-03-02T15:30:00.001-08:00

Finished House quilt.
Tacked together. I love this block.

I'm working on my spring time bird quilt in the evenings while I watch TV. I am hand stitching around the birds and fruit in the center panel.
Slow going though.
I am also working on another UFO that I have been working on for about 2 years.
I'm not sure what design it is but it has a starburst pattern appliqued onto a plain background. The first try, I didn't have a pattern just one single piece. I sewed 15 pieces together and then added a center circle. Making it look like a flower. After that I cut out all the background blocks and realized I had cut them all about 2 inches too short. So I put it away. Months later pulled them out and embroidered something in the center of each one. Then I put it away. Life has a way of getting in the way... so here it is 2 years later and I am just about ready to finish appliquing them onto the plain background blocks.
Now all I need to do is add batting and a back fabric.

Scarf and Hat the Knifty Knitter Way

2009-02-22T15:59:00.000-08:00

I made this set scarf and hat with my knifty knitter and 1 ball of dark blue fun fur and 3 balls of light blue fun fur. Although I find fun fur hard to crochet, the knifty knitter is very easy. Just wrap around the pegs a couple of times and pull the loops over the pegs and repeat as many times as needed. Warm and very soft as well as fashionable. I have all the sizes of rings and rakes the Knifty Knitter makes. You really need to get you some. I noticed thatWalmart has them on sale now for half of what I paid several years ago.

More on quilt

2009-02-18T15:50:00.000-08:00

Well I finished the top of the quilt. Took it in to my hubby and he wanted to know if it was for him (all excited at the prospect). So of course I had to say Yes.
I had chosen a lovely pink and marroon backing but if I did it in that marroon with plenty of pinks... he would realize that I wasn't making it for him. LOL
So I ran to Wamart today and picked up a nice solid blue fabric to back the quilt in.
I like my quilts to be reversable with designs on the back as well as the pretty front.
So now I need to take it somewhere to put it together. It sucks having a small house. No rooms are big enough or uncluttered enough to lay the quilt down smoothly.

New quilt

2009-02-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

Started a new quilt. It is actually a wall hanging but I thought it would make a nice spring quilt. Fruit trees and birds. Plenty of gold, marroon and navy blues. I plan on continuing the colors. The tims will be gold then marroon then gold. I chose a marroon backing. Let's see how this one plays out. have so litte time to do a big project like a quilt. I usually do rag quilts because they go together so fast.

It's just another day.

2009-02-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

Well, it's just another day. To work, to cook dinner, to call the family checking on them. To spend a few minutes doing some kind of craft that I enjoy.

To say a prayer for those in need. The fires in Australia, losing all those lives, people all over losing their homes, people with cancer, families in turmoil, our government, the stimulas debates

It seems so hard and almost too heavy to bare.

And then you remember there is one so much bigger than you. One who can take care of even the smallest problem.

I sent the above picture to a group I'm on. Last year there was a momma bear with 4 cubs who came around daily. How she managed those cubs amazed me. She would nuzzle them, disipline them and teach them. Kinda like our Lord does us.... if we are paying attention we learn our lessons.

This is a set I made from glass beads I got from Michael's. I love doing jewelry. It calms me. I made about 25 sets (pendent and earrings) for presents this Christmas for all the girls at work. I discovered one thing.... it is really hard to choose jewelry for others. This set includes a ring. I didn't really have the right gauge of wire to do a ring but I usually manage anway.

Saturday My day for cleaning house

2009-02-07T05:53:00.000-08:00

Today is Saturday. Since I'm normally off this is the day to do all the things in the house I don't do through the week. But if you are craft minded I thought you might find these sites of interest.
Check them out, I visit these often.
www.craftycrafty.tv/
http://craftpop.com
http://craftbuddy.com
http://craftster.org
www.instructables.com
www.crafttown.com
www.craftbits.com
http://thetincat.com/craft.html
http://freepatternsite.com

I also love going to www.sewforum.com
Although you will need to sign up to become a member, the wealth of information and free patterns are wonderful.

My newest project

2009-02-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

Well, I started my newest project last night. I am making a bible cover tote. I finished the embroidered front and will be cutting out the pattern tonight. Since I don't have a pattern I'll wing it and take some pictures to share.
I'll get back to you maybe tomorrow.
Well, it's tomorrow and I did a lousy job creating the bible cover. I made it about an inch too short and forgot to put the handles on. So there will be no pictures!
I'll try again when time permits. Since I just got off the phone and have 3 hat orders, I have to make them first.

World's Ugliest Quilt

2009-02-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

This is my "world's ugliest quilt". Did you ever picture a design and a color scheme.... put it together and discover that is was awful? Well, that's how this raggy quilt turned out. I had all these fat quarters and wanted to use them up.
A raggy quilt is squares of fabric, interfacing and fabric sandwiched together then sewn together but the seams are visable. You then clip the seams about a quarter inch apart. Throw it in the washer then dry it. The clipped edges fringe out making it look raggy. You use 100% cotton or home spun fabrics. Although if using home spuns you have to clean your washed out and clean the lint trap of your dryer several times. Then you vaccum all the threads that are everywhere in your house. Then you vaccum again to get all the threads you missed the first time. If you ever attempt a rag quilt..... please shake the quilt out after washing then again after drying outside only. And I mean only outside or you will be vaccuming for days to come.

History of GroundHog Day

2009-02-03T14:10:00.000-08:00

History of Groundhog Day You really need to know....
Well according to the groundhog we have 6 more weeks of winter coming! And it is snowing like crazy here so I guess he is right. Here is some information for you on Groundhog Day according to Wikipedia.
Groundhog Day is an annual holiday celebrated on February 2 in the United States and Canada on which folklore tells if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and fails to see its shadow because the weather is cloudy, winter will soon end. If on the other hand, it is sunny and the groundhog sees its shadow, the groundhog will supposedly retreat into its burrow, and winter will continue for six more weeks. The holiday, which began as a Pennsylvania German custom in southeastern and central Pennsylvania in the 18th and 19th centuries, has its origins in ancient European weather lore, wherein a badger or sacred bear is the prognosticator as opposed to a groundhog. The people here put great store in Puxatawny Phil. But whatelse can the poor little groundhog do but see his shadow when the towns people set up all those lights and drag him out into the limelight.

Make yourself a Hobo Bag

2009-02-02T15:39:00.001-08:00

I love making purses, totes and accessores. I have made hundreds of them. This is my version of the Hobo Bag.

I have a tutorial site. If you would like the pattern for this (free of charge of course) you can find the pattern and step by step instructions for it at http://itsmybag.myeweb.net/photo3.html

I have several tutorials there. I love to teach and share the things I do and enjoy doing. It seems alot of people will not share their knowledge but I believe if we share what we know.. it comes back to you ten fold.

Making Welding Caps

2009-02-01T16:31:00.000-08:00

I started making welder's caps for my son who is a welder. I looked everywhere for the pattern and finally drafted my own. It's amazing how people are so afraid to share.

If you are in need of the pattern do not send money to paragon hats. I sent them 14.00 over 8 months ago and never recieved a pattern.

They don't answer emails either.

Email me and I'll be happy to share.

After you get the pattern cut out it takes about 45 minutes to make a reversible cap.

Cakes R us

2009-01-30T16:10:00.000-08:00

I began cake decorating about 15 years ago. I ran a Bakery/Deli and my cake decorator walked out. I had several cake orders due that day hence I became a cake decorator. Man was that first cake Bad! Here is a couple of cakes I did for my youngest granddaughter's 1st birthday.

The smaller one is the one you give the baby to make a big mess.

What a cold and icy day

2009-01-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

What a cold and icy day. Well this week has been awfully cold, with the icy storm I have been stuck in the house after work. I have made a few pieces of jewelry.

I love making jewelry. So satisfing and calming.

There are so many options when you bead. I usually go to Walmart and Michaels for my beading pleasure. This set(on the right) I call Aqua Calm. The one on the left I call "Pink Passion"

You can find everything you need to make these sets at Walmart. The beads come in a kit with many colors and size beads. The ear wires come in a package of 50 for as little as 1.99. You will also need a package of headpins. Needlenose Plyers and a few spacer beads. Spacer beads can be purchased in many colors and sizes and usually are about 3.99 for as many as 50 beads on a string. It cost me about 3.00 to make this set. You can find some great beading tutorials on the web. Simply do a search "How to make a beaded necklace". It's amazing what's available.

I also like to check out "as seen on tvweekly .com". This site has many different videos to teach you how to bead, make a card and many more crafts.

Crafting With Mawmaw Becky

2009-01-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

This being my first Blog and my first post, I think I'll tell you a bit about myself.
First and foremost I love to craft. I have done many different kinds of crafts over the years and will be sharing as I do more. Some old, some new but I'll be crafting away sharing it all with you.
That is if I can figure out how to post pictures to share.

I live in West Virginia and am married to a wonderful man. We have been married for 34 years now. We have a son who is 33 and a daughter who is 28 years old. Between the two of them and their spouses, I have 4 super wonderful granchildren. Ages 11, 8, 5 and 15 months.

This is a picture I computer painted a few months ago.

With all the freezing , snowy and icy weather we are having right now I wish I could step into my picture.