OC Family - Moms. Kids. Life. - (She's Crafty)

Win a Janome embroidery machine!

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:27:00 GMT

Are you just starting to dabble in this whole crafting world??
Check out The DIY Dish for awesome ideas AND there is a chance you can win a sewing machine or embroidery machine to get those creative juices flowing!
Go here for detail about the giveaway.
Below is a little video about the new site!
Good luck!! You better believe I entered!!
That embroidery machine is calling my name.
I may have to monogram all Hot Hubby's work shirts... ha!

Coming soon...
...St Patrick's Day crafts to decorate you home
...a week long series about thowing a baby shower!!

Kara-Noel (5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Goodbye Valentines Day!

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:52:00 GMT

I'm taking down Valentines Day today!

Goodbye heart votives.

Goodbye handprint hearts.

Goodbye heart garland (don't tell the others... but I will miss you MOST of all!)

Goodbye Valentine's Day runner I never finished.

I'll be packing you away unfinished.

But you will be first on the list for next year!!

Hello all things GREEN!!

Look for St. Patty crafts coming soon.

I'm off to pick up some green spray paint :)

Kara-Noel (5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Fabric rap... I mean wrap

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:41:00 GMT

Instead of wrapping small gifts in paper, get crafty and use fabric (or a pillowcase!) with REAL ribbon.
It's easier for kiddos to open and gives the gifts a whimsy touch!

Now I need your help!
Is your birthday on a holiday? (or near one?)
What did your parents do that totally sucked?
What did they do that was totally awesome?
Go here and leave a comment with ANY tips you have!!
Trying to keep Cora out of therapy because of her Valentines Birthday!

Kara-Noel (5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Crafting up birthday dessert

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:03:00 GMT

I can't cook worth beans.

(ha)

But I can craft up a few cupcakes to make a memorable Birthday dessert!

A few cupcakes + sprinkles + awesome cake plate + kisses + whimsy candles =

Awesome Birthday Dinner Dessert!

Do you do a birthday dessert or something else special on your kiddo's actual Birthday?

(If you have a post about it leave the link in the comments! I would love to get ideas!)

Kara-Noel (4.5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Sat, 13 Feb 2010 23:12:00 GMT

Make this simple Valentine's Day garland this afternoon!

Cut felt hearts, then sew right down the center.
I ran them through once with red and again with pink.
Love it!

Have a heart for Valentine's Day

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:14:00 GMT

I love this sweet Valentine's Day craft!

So simple.

And it doubles as a V-Day decoration and childhood keepsake.

Kinda like the Hand print Turkeys!

~Paint one sweet little hand like this:

~Stamp.

~Repeat on the other side, making a heart shape on the paper.Do a few practice runs, especially if you are doing it on a canvas and only get one shot.
(I had to press their pinkys down on the paper because it didn't get enough paint on the paper without an extra push.)
~Frame
~DONE!

Use this as a decoration or make into tags for Valentine's Day gifties!

Get Crafty!!

Kara-Noel (4.5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Valentine's Day votives

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 11:58:00 GMT

I save containers.

One of my "quirks."

Hot Hubby HATES it.

I have a whole cabinet in my kitchen filled with empty jars, cans, jugs... whatever.

Just waiting for me to be inspired.

Remember the awesome bath toys I made?

Well, my container cabinet saved the day again when I decided to make some Valentines votives.

Just grab some jars and craft paint and get going.

This one was inspired by conversation hearts...

Paint little hearts all over the jar, fill the bottom with heart candy, and a votive and you are done!

Don't waste money on loads of craft paint. If you have primary colors you can add a bit of white to get pastels:

This one was inspired by heart lace...

Dip a pencil eraser into white paint and stamp on the jar for perfect uniform circles every time!

Get Crafty!!

Kara-Noel (4.5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Valentine's candy necklace

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:36:00 GMT

This is a craft your kiddos will beg to do with you.

Make these as Valentines for the whole class!

You'll need:

Cut the plastic wrap to about a yard long then lengthwise. So you'll have 2 long skinny strips.

Be sure to leave 1-2" in between each candy. You can do more than one candy in each section. I did 9 sections total.

I thought we were going to lose fingers with this next step...

Tie a 3-5" ribbon in between each of the candies or candy clusters.

Curl the ribbon (or not) and wear!

Switch up the colors and do this craft for any holiday!!

Kara-Noel (4.5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

15 minute pillowcase

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 23:56:00 GMT

If you can sew a straight line you can make this pillowcase.
(Even if the straight line isn't so straight this project will still turn out awesome!)
This pillowcase looks fancy but I promise it is super easy and guaranteed to impress your friends.
(REALLY!!)

She's Crafty - Pillow Case from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

You'll need:
Main fabric - 3/4 yard - cut fabric 27" x 41"
Cuff fabric - 1/3 yard - cut fabric 10" x 41"
Trim fabric - 1/8 yard - cut fabric 3" x 41"

Expanding a bit on the video:
Fold the trim in half lengthwise and iron wrong sides together...

Here is a still picture showing how the fabric is layered before sewing... double check before you sew or you won't be happy after you do the turning!

One thing I forgot to mention in the video...
After you sew the bottom and sides of the pillowcase, go back and do a zig zag stitch along the edges for more reinforcement!

Finish by making a bow with your fabric scraps.

Be Crafty!

Kara-Noel (4.5 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Aprons for all

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:42:00 GMT

I found these awesome aprons.
They are perfect for boys or girls.
For baking or crafting.
For real or pretend.
For you!

These aprons are made by Stringbean Company.
Everything in their store is made in the USA!
AND they are giving away a Rockets & Robots Apron Duo!!

That's right folks... an apron for you AND your little one.
Go here for details.
I think these little suckers would make a perfect Valentine for your lil' Valentine!!

Rockets on one side and robots on the other in delicious fabric...

Rockets not your cup of tea?Buy one of the other styles (or anything else at Stringbean) for 20% off using the coupon code LIDS.

Good luck!

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Countdown to Valentines

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 10:29:00 GMT

Countdown to Valentines Day starts NOW!!
26 Days to get the class gifties ready.
26 days to plan that party.
GO!

Download this free pattern to make an awesome Valentines Pillow:

Or check out all these free Valentines crafts.

More to come...

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Use pillowcases to wrap presents

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:19:00 GMT

Now that you can make all those adorable pillowcases, you can use them to wrap gifts.

Save money on wrapping supplies.

Be Green.

(Cuz that's totally in right now!)

Here is a picture of Cora Jane opening one of her Christmas gifts wrapped in a pillocase.

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Beading necklaces

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:30:00 GMT

Have you ever passed the beading aisle at the craft store?
Beautiful shiny rocks everywhere.
Love it.
I would pass by and think to myself...
"All you have to do is add a clasp to that string of beads and you got yourself a necklace for under $4!"
So I tried it.
I bought this beautiful string of beads for $1.97 at Walmart then added a clasp.
It turned out lovely.
See...

So I was feeling kinda cocky.
I spent about $12 on a few more things with dreams of my own jewelry line dancing around my imagination.
It would have a name like BEAD. Which everyone would think was lame at first, then they would see the awesomeness and I could sell one of my funky-retro-uber-hip-necklaces for like 70 clams!
My supplies...

Here are the 5 necklaces I came up with.

I'm sad to say I don't have much talent in the beading department.

As in zip, zero zilch!!

I'm OK with it.

Failure isn't the end of my crafting world.

It is the crafting world!!

I'm proud that I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried a new craft.

I'm also pretty stoked that my original idea of adding a clasp to the string of beads turned out.

See how awesome it looks...

Me being pensive and me being me... but either way, the necklace rules the world!

Only two bucks for that beauty!

Your turn!

Get out of your crafting comfort zone and try something new.
Be Crafty!!

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Drawstring bag

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 09:49:00 GMT

Did Santa leave your living room filled with toys?

Is one of your New Years resolutions to organize?

I made up this easy drawstring bag pattern anyone (really, anyone!) can make in minutes!

Dust off that sewing machine, watch this 3 minute video and get organized!

She's Crafty - Drawstring Bag from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.
(Don't you love how it looks like I'm about to tell someone off in the frozen video!)

If you don't have ribbon then you can make your own.
Warning: Making your own ribbon is time consuming and it makes the bag a bit smaller...
~Cut a 2" strip off the long end of both of your fat quarters:

~Sew the short ends of the two strips together.

~Be sure you catch all the layers when you sew down the open end!

~To give the ribbon a bit more structure, sew along the other end also.

~Reinforce the folded end by going forward and backward with you stitch.

~Knot the ends and you are finished!

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Repurpose a cracker container into toy storage

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:24:00 GMT

Do you get those yummy animal crackers from Sam's Club?
You know, the ones that aren't that bad for you (unless you melt chocolate chips and dip them in the warm chocolaty goodness). The containers are awesome and I felt horrible throwing them away so I started using them to store small toys (I'm so Green). The actual container is the perfect size but the narrow top can get flustering for little ones (and moms) when they are trying to pull out or put in a toy that just barely fits. I got out my trusty craft supplies and did a little plastic surgery (I think I'm so funny)!!!
You can too...
Cut the top off the bin. I sliced it with an exacto knife then cut it all the way around with my craft scissors. Try to cut it in one fail swoop so you don't have any sharp edges.
You can be done here, or if you think your bin needs a bit of extra cuteness grab your Mod Podge & cute paper and have some fun!
You'll need:

I had intended to cover the whole bin with paper. But the clear bin is great for spying out it's contents. So instead I opted for covering up the animal cracker logo.
I used paper that would show my kiddos what goes inside. Footballs for the ball bin and cars for the car-train-anything-with-wheels and tracks bin. You can just to a rectangle cut and stick it on (footballs) or you can layer it up (cars). These bins are awesome for organizing sets with small pieces... Polly pocket, blocks, lego, doctor kits, animals...!
Great FREE storage to keep that New Year's Resolution to organize!

(How could I resist putting up this photo of 8 month old Cindy-Loo-Who, aka Cora Jane with the boxes!?!)

Kara-Noel (4 months preggers) has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

New Years banner

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:51:00 GMT

Last year we started the tradition of taking pictures with signs to ring in the New Year.

(fyi we are all in our PJs... more about that at the end!)

I used white paint on black construction paper then let Eli finger paint all over them. Use the "art" to decorate a front window or make a decorative banner. Then snap some family pictures on New Years Eve.

Very fun.
Very easy.
And makes some memorable photo opts...

Grab some paint, get messy and create memories with your kiddos!

Celebrating New Years Eve with young kiddos?
Try New York New Years.
Every year we have a Pajama party at our friend's house. Instead of trying to keep the kiddos awake till midnight we do the countdown, toasts and kisses on New York time via cable.
New York midnight = 9 pm California time.
Read about last year's party here!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for grandparents - Decoupaged frame

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 09:22:00 GMT

There is still time to make this awesome frame for your grandparents before Christmas.
(You know all they want is pictures of your kiddos anyway!)

You'll need:
~Frame (I got mine at IKEA for $2.99)
~Mod Podge (you can get this at any craft store)
~Paint brush or foam brush
~Paper (I used newspaper but fun scrapbooking paper would be cute too)
~Letter beads (in the kids section at the craft store NOT the bead section)
~Other embellishments (optional)

1. Take the glass out of the frame.
2. Prepare the paper. You can cut or tear it into various size strips. I think tearing it gives it some extra depth.
3. Take one strip and paint both sides with Mod Podge. Paint a bit of Mod Podge on the frame and stick the strip on the frame.
4. Do step #3 about 100 times (not really) till the frame is totally covered. Vary the angle and sizes of the strips so the frame looks super cool. This gets messy so it's super fun to do with kiddos!
5. Let the frame dry. (about an hour)
6. Glue on letter beads to spell out your message. We used ours for the "Big Announcement." Any other embellishments can be glued on at this time too. I think a red silk flower would look awesome in the corner. I just couldn't get my rear to the craft store (again) before Christmas!

See how my parents reacted (very delayed reaction) to the "Big Announcement!"
She's Crafty - Baby News from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.
Be Crafty!!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for mom - Cake plate

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 11:11:00 GMT

Still looking for a gift for your mom?
You can make these cake plates in minutes.

She's Crafty - Cake Plate from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.
(Don't you just love the poses the video puts me in? Thankfully, I'm OK with being a dork!)

Epoxy info: I used Devcon 2 Ton Clear Epoxy We bought it at Walmart but they no longer carry it (lame). Any clear drying epoxy will work, my Mom found one at Tall Mouse called 5 Minute Quik-Cure Epoxy. They also carry epoxy at Home Depot.

One of the best things about this craft is you can make it for as little as $2 or go more high end with designer brands. (I got my plates and votives at The Dollar Tree.)
Finish your gift by tying fabric scraps around the base or filling the plate with home baked goodies!

Be Crafty!!

Coming tomorrow:
A HUGE announcement & another quick giftie with a hysterical video (if I do say so myself)

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for your daughter - Play purse

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:36:00 GMT

Does your little gal need a place to store her lip gloss?
Try making this simple purse.

2 fat quarters
2 fun buttons
& some fabric scraps in coordinating colors.

1. Fold fat quarter in half lengthwise right sides together.
2. Cut a 2" strip off the long edge (these will become your handles).

3. Set the strips aside and cut the big piece in half width-wise. You'll have two folded rectangles about 7"x11"

4. Right sides together, sew across the bottom and side seems. You'll have two inside-out pouches.

5. Turn one right side out. This is the outside of the purse. The one you leave inside out is the lining.
6. Fold the the top edge of the lining about 1" and iron.
7. Fold inside the top edge of the bag outsides about 1" and iron.

8. Grab the strips. Fold the long edges in toward the center and iron.
9. Fold the strip in half lengthwise and iron.

10. Sew up the edge. Make sure you are sewing through all the layers.

11. Repeat everything above with the other fat quarter!

12. Take one lining and stuff it inside one outside.
Side note: If your fat quarters coordinate you can switch the linings and handles to have contrasting purses.
13. Pin along the top of the purse. The outside and the lining should fit snugly. If they are off just a little you will end up with a wrinkle in your purse.
14. Insert the handles about 1.5" between the layers on each side. I placed them about 2 " from the edge of the purse.
15. Start sewing around the purse. I reinforced the stitch 3 times over the handles.

16. Do one final iron and sew on the button. I did a fun little flower under mine. (Flower will get it's own tutorial another day.)

DONE!

Be Crafty!!
Enter to win these purses and loads of other awesome handmade loot here. AND help me save a village in Africa at the same time!!

Coming Soon...
Cake Plates (one of my all time favorite gifts to make!)
Christmas Crafts for kiddos (Cuz you know you need something to do when your kiddos are home all day for Winter break!)

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for your son - juggling bags

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 01:01:00 GMT

For the clown in your life...
Juggling bags!

You'll need...

Fill the bag about 3/4 full. (For me, this was 2 not-quite-filled 1/4 measuring cups.)

Be sure all the filling stays away from your sew line.

Step 7: ENJOY!
Here is a video of my Hot Hubby using the bags I made.
If you watch the video you'll get to see my mad parenting skills as I threaten Eli that Santa doesn't come to bad little boys.

She's Crafty - Juggling Demonstration from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

Be Crafty!
Enter to win these juggling bags and loads of other awesome handmade loot here. AND help me save a village in Africa at the same time!!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for the Newlyweds - Custom Coasters

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:27:00 GMT

Need a quick easy-to-make house warming giftie?
Found it!

You'll need:

(Side note: Spray adhesive can be found at any craft or hardware store. It's a must have in any household! You'll be surprised how many practical uses you'll find for it!)

I got these adorable cork board coasters after a trip to Irvine Regional Park... but of course I had to spice them up a bit!
I used a fine tip sharpie to trace onto the fabric. If you use a dark pen be sure to cut inside the line to it won't show through the fabric!

Follow the instructions on the spray adhesive. (Use outside!) I sprayed the cork board then stuck the fabric on.

Cut off any overhanging bits then do a light line of fray check all the way around. The fabric will look wet right after you put it on but it dries clear.

Use a fabric strip to wrap.

These custom coasters pair up great with the cups and pitcher we made last month.

Be Crafty!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Gift for your Aunt - Custom Dish Towels

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Making these dish towels is VERY simple, inexpensive AND personal.
You'll need:

Follow the directions on your fusible webbing or interfacing (you can get them at any craft store). You're basically making your adorable fabric into an iron-on sticker.
After you stick the pattern on the towel use a zig zag stitch on the edge of the fabric. (Tip: Narrow the width of the zig zag to get a continuous solid outline around the fabric.)

I made these for Project 320 but I'm making more for my mom for Christmas with a long strip of fabric running across the ribbing of the towel. (Mom - Forget you read that!)

Wondering what Project 320 is?
I'll tell (type) ya!
Creative women across the county are sewing/crafting their hearts out this week to prepare 10 handmade packages (about 10 items in each package!!) up for raffle... maybe something from Anthropologie in the mix and gift cards and... well you'll have to wait and see!
December 14th-18th.
Are we keeping the cash?
Nope!
All the $moo-la$ will be donated to charity:water to build a clean well in Africa. We have already raised 40% toward our goal of $5,000 to build the well.
YOU can help too.
Only $10 a ticket.
(You know that is less than any other gift under your tree... and you may win a bunch of RAD stuff!)

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging at Eli's Lids.

Make your own Menorah

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:14:00 GMT

I'm not Jewish.
But I love a good Menorah.
I think they are just beautiful!
I designed this sweet (yet elegant) Menorah for you to make this Hanukkah.

Watch this 3 minute video and make one too...

She's Crafty - Make a simple elegant Menorah from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

Be Crafty!

Check back soon
I'll be running a "Make your own gifts" series the whole week. I'm so excited!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging at Eli's Lids.

Bead & felt Christmas ornaments

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 21:23:00 GMT

I'm not usually a fan of crafts I find in magazines.
They always seem to be too complicated or too expensive or too unrealistic or... well, you get the idea.
But I found this little ditty in the latest addition of Parents Magazine.
Of course I modified it a bit (a lot) so it is way cuter!
I love it!
Hope you do too!

Here's what you'll need:
Hot glue gun and...

Pin the template on the felt and cut. (Click here for the template.)
Punch a hole at the top of the ornament (for the hanger) and punch random holes all over it. (Tip: The felt is a bit "mushy" to cut through. Put a piece of paper behind the felt for a cleaner cut.)

I ate a whole bag of gummy worms while doing this craft.
Really.
I couldn't stop.
Is that sad?

Put a tiny bead of hot glue on the base of the bead.
Shove that little sucker (technical terms) in the punched felt hole with the glue on the bottom. The bead should fit snugly, the glue is just for reinforcement.

My kiddos were totally into it...

Create a beaded ornament with any simple shape! I've included a star on the template
Heck, even a circle with loads of beads on it would be adorable! but I also think a snowman, snowflake, angel or candle would be awesome.

To make the hanger, thread the ribbon through your top hole, then use my tip below to get the same length and perfect bow on everyone!

These ornaments look great on a Christmas tree because the Christmas lights shine through the beads.
Make them, and see for yourself.

Be Crafty!!

Need another fun kids craft? (Or just wanna see how cute Eli was last year?) Check out this countdown to Christmas paper chain we made. You tear one link a day till Christmas Eve and each link has something Christmasy for the family to do!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging at Eli's Lids.

Thanksgiving turkey handprint

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:36:00 GMT

How much do you love these little
handprint turkeys!?!?!?!
Now make em'!!

You'll need:
~Fabric for the turkey body (I bought 2 fat quarters and that was plenty for our whole family including 2 mess-ups... I mean tests!)
~Felt for the feathers. Red, brown, gold & orange (plus a scrap of black felt for the eyes)
~Stuffing
~Pins
~Marker
~Scissors
~Hot glue gun
~Pencil with eraser (you know, the "old fashioned" kind?)
~Feather template (link below)
~Finally watch the video...

She's Crafty - Thanksgiving Sewn Turkey Handprint Craft from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

You'll find the feather template here. Cut outside the line, pin to felt and cut around it.

(FYI- Yes, that is my name on the scissors. My mom wrote it on there so they wouldn't get mixed up with hers... cute I know.)

Turkeys were inspired (& modified a bit) by something I saw on Bella Dia.

Can't get enough turkeys?
Check out these awesome turkey cupcakes made my friend Kristen at Meringue Bake Shop.

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging at Eli's Lids.

No-Sew Thanksgiving napkin rings

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:41:00 GMT

These sweet napkin rings will add a festive flare to any Thanksgiving table and it's so easy you can do it with your kiddos!

Here's what you need: (cost of about $5 can make 20+ rings)

~Cut 1.5 X 6" strips of brown felt in the number of napkin rings you'll need.
~Cut out your napkin ring designs from the template I made (here) or make up your own!
Some other ideas: Use them as place settings by putting guest's initials or name in the center of the design; have Pilgrims and Indians and use them to create teams for games later in the evening... etc.

I pinned the paper template onto the felt and cut around it so I wouldn't have to worry about a marker showing.
(The funny thing about this picture is that I had no clue Cora wiped her chocolate face on my shoulder... that dirty sweater is folded back up in it's drawer. Oh well!)

~Use your hot glue gun and make a thin line of glue on one end of the strip.

~Fold the strip into a circle to create the ring.

~Put the seam in the back and plop some glue on the top.

~Press on one of your designs.

~Use the buttons to accent the Autumn leaves.

Side Note: If you are doing the craft with your kiddos you may want to opt out of using the hot glue gun. Regular white glue will work fine, but it takes MUCH longer to dry so you have to let them sit overnight. To be sure the are secure use clothes pins while drying.

You can really do ANYTHING on these rings. Even something as simple as one button glued on the ring (pictured bottom right) will add a homemade touch to your Thanksgiving feast!

Here are my final napkin rings displayed on a few napkins. I think they turned out awesome!

Make envelopes to match your notecards

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:18:00 GMT

After making awesome stationary from the last post you'll need awesome envelopes to match!
(Can you ever overuse the word "awesome?" I think not.)

You'll need:
~A piece of scratch paper that will cover the note card (I cut down the note cards jut a bit so I could use standard 8.5 x 11" paper) for the template
~Cute envelope paper in the amount of envelopes you want to make (I had 6 cards so I needed 6 pieces of paper)
~Scissors
~Glue stick or glue gun

First, place the note card in the center of your scratch piece of paper and do a fold on each side around the paper.
(Paper should overlap at least 1/4" to cover the note card)

Cut as shown below tapering the bottom slightly and making the top into a triangle.
Now, pop your note card in the center and fold in the right and left hand sides (making sure they overlap at least 1/4" of an inch) then fold the bottom up (making sure the note card is totally covered).
Unfold.
You've just made your template!

Use the template to trace the envelope pattern onto the envelope paper.
You can do many variations for the bottom of the envelope. I've highlighted a few in red below.

After using the template to cut out all your envelopes, it's time to make the final envelope!
Fold the right and left hand sides into the center and put a line of glue on the top inside flap. Press. Fold the bottom up and put a line of glue across the inside edges. Press.

DONE!
Put behind the finished note cards and they are gift ready!
Include matched stickers for the gift-ee to close the envelop.

Be Crafty!

Coming Soon...

No-sew Thanksgiving Napkin Rings
Turkey Keepsake Centerpieces
Cake Plates
A WHOLE series of "Make Your Own Kiddo Christmas Gifts!" (It's going to be awesome!!!!)

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging at Eli's Lids.

Simple note cards

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:24:00 GMT

Thanksgiving is a comin'!
What better way to "give thanks" than with these adorable thank you notes!

Watch this 3 minute video and see just how simple they are to make...

She's Crafty - Simple Sewn Note Cards from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

To get to the note card template click here.

If you have irregular fabric scraps each card can be made a little different (like my examples). Any fabric shape can be sewn on the card but straight line are the easiest.
Don't feel like sewing? Simply glue stick the fabric on the note card and hot glue ribbon or ric-rac around the edges!

Make the note cards gift ready by wrapping them with a strip of fabric or bow:

Be Crafty!

Check back soon! The next craft is how to make matching envelopes!!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Customize Paper Bags for Gifts or Favors

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:45:00 GMT

Are you looking for a unique way to package gifts?
You've found it!

Use this easy sewing tip to gift Thanksgiving muffins for neighbors or Christmas cookies for Great Grandmom or a gift card for your child's teacher or...
you get the idea...

She's Crafty - Sew Custom Embellishments on Paper Bags from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

Simple patterns using fabric or paper can easily be sewn on any size paper bag...

Just before making this video I was making different examples and just happened to make two pieces into little animal ears. I took that idea and ran with it for Eli's Birthday Party favors. I love the way this turned out and I think the kiddos will get a kick out of them!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Make your Own Laundry Soap

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:06:00 GMT

Being crafty is more than just making the best gifties or having the coolest handmade stuff in your home.
(well, not much more... ha!)
Being crafty is also about stretching your dollar.
(so you you have more moo-la for fun stuff)
Try making your own laundry soap!

I bought my ingredients at Soaps Gone Buy. I was able to buy enough for loads of loads (pun intended) and it came to only $13! Then I added in the shipping... 16 more bucks.
(Does anyone else hate paying shipping!?!)
I figured $29 was still way cheaper than the amount I would spend on the same amount of laundry soap.
(But if you know a store that has borax, fels or washing soda let me know!!)
There are loads of recipes out there! I used one from Soaps Gone Buy. I chose it because the website said it was their "favorite."
(You know you can trust anything you read on the Internet, right?)

Powdered Laundry Detergent
1 cup grated Fels Naptha Soap
1/2 cup washing soda
1/2 cup 20 mule team borax
~Mix and store in airtight container or bag. For light or small loads, use 1 tablespoon. For normal loads, use 2 tablespoons. For heavy loads, use 3 tablespoons. Cost per load .15.
Note from me: I doubled the recipe and 2 cups of grated Fels Naptha Soap = 1 bar

As I was grating the soap Eli kept asking to eat it because it looked like cheese.
He was right...

The test:
I did a small test load because Hot Hubby is...um...well... Let's just say he has endearing quirks (anal, picky, particular) about laundry.
One of the make-your-own-laundry-soap claims is that you can nix fabric softener because this concoction makes clothes super soft.
It did! The clothes were a pile of lovely fluff. And I do think that the whites were whiter!
BUT...
There were a few spots that I think would have come out with store bought laundry soap.
So?
I think I will keep making my own for a few reasons...
1. It's cheap cheap cheap (the liquid recipe is only .04 cents a load!) and I don't have to buy fabric softener.
2. I like that we won't have all those chemicals touching our skin all the time.
3. It's really easy and I have enough stuff to try new mixtures.
4. I felt really cool making it. Really. Like I was back in Little House on the Praire days. (If that's not reason enough to make your own laundry soap... I don't know what is!)

Be Crafty!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Custom Pouring Pitcher & Glasses

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 09:27:00 GMT

I love love love this craft!!

This custom pouring pitcher will make a meaningful giftie for a friend or a personal touch at your next holiday gathering!
Watch the 2 minute video below for instructions.
(I promise, anyone can do this craft!)

She's Crafty - Custom Pouring Pitcher from Kara Noel Lawson on Vimeo.

Be Crafty!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Pirate Costumes YOU Can Make Tonight

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:26:00 GMT

Did you put off getting Halloween costumes?

Did you stand in line for 2 hours at PartyCity only to find the last things left were Freddy Krueger in size 10 and a Diva?
(What the hay kind of costume is a Diva anyway!?!?!)
Here are some simple pirate costumes you can make tonight!

Pirate Boy
You'll need: White long sleeved tee, skull & crossbones cutout, 1/8 yard of red knit fabric, brown pants, pirate accessories, 1/2 yard of brown cotton fabric, scissors, hot glue gun or sewing machine.

Tee: White tee with a skull and crossbones double stick taped on the front.

Sash: About 1/8 of a yard of red knit fabric tied twice around his waist to create a pirate sword belt.
Pants: Brown Hurley pants we have rolled up to the ankle.
Hat/Sword/Hook: From our dress up box (accessories are usually still available at costume stores!)
Vest: 1/2 yard of brown fabric for a vest.
1. measure your pirate's back across the outside of the shoulders (Eli's was 11").
2. Measure from the bottom of their neck to their mid bottom (Eli's was 15").
3. Cut 2 11"x 15" pieces of fabric.
4. Leave one whole and cut the other one down the center longways.
5. Sew or hot glue (yes you can hot clue costumes!!) the tiny rectangles to the large one on the top, to form the shoulders, and sides leaving arm holes. (I didn't sew the whole way across on the top shoulder pieces of the vest so I could fold/iron it in for lapels)
Pirate Girl
You'll need: 1/2 or 1/8 yard of red knit fabric, white tee, skirt, 1/4 yard of brown fleece, 1/2 yard of brown knit (not pictured), scissors, hot glue gun or sewing machine.
Kerchief: 1/2 yard of red knit fabric cut into a 25"x 17" triangle or 1/8 yard of red knit in a 25" strip for a rectangle headband.
Tee: plain white
Skirt: I made this one out of some fabric scraps I had. If you don't sew you can use anything you already have... jean or brown skirt; red, brown or jean pants rolled up. (tip: If you buy or make a skirt keep it simple. This skirt will take us through Christmas because it looks like candy canes)
Boots: 1/4 yard of brown fleece.
1. Measure around your little pirates calf and add an inch (Cora's was 8.5") and from knee to ankle (Cora's was 7").
2. Cut into two 8.5"x7" rectangles.
3. Sew up the back and wear with brown shoes.
Waist sash (not pictured): After looking at the pictures I think I'm going to cut out a large knit brown triangle to tie around her waist so she will look like a true pirate wench!

Be Crafty!

If you aren't in a pirate mood check out our quick-fix costumes from last year here! (Nerds, Fireman & Ballerina)

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.

Create an Effortless Holiday Centerpiece

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 21:12:00 GMT

It's official.
The "holidays" have arrived.
Time for big meals, decorations and family gatherings!
Stress.
I can't tell you what to do about those family members (you know the ones) but I can help simplify the decorations with this effortless tip.
Combine your dessert (or favors) and centerpiece.
Instead of wasting money on a centerpiece you can only use once opt for pumpkin pie, apple crisp and key lime on cute cake stands on one end of the table or line up frosted cupcakes and walnut brownies down the center
(is your mouth watering yet?!?).
This year for our Halloween centerpiece I used a simple vase filled with black beans from my pantry and our Halloween party favors.
Easy!
After the party the favors will be taken, the vase can go back on the shelf, and those beans will be in a tortilla soup!

Kara-Noel has been "crafting" since she could hold a glue gun! When she isn't hanging with her Hot Hubby or chasing down her two kiddos you'll find her blogging here.