InspireMe Crafts

Gotta Make It: Just Married Sign

"...happily ever after"

Here's my latest project that I did for our friend.  She wanted a "Just Married" sign to hold in their getaway car for a photograph.  She gave me her color scheme and I went from there.  As a special 'thank you' for everything she does for us I also made her the "...happily ever after" sign.  I can't wait to get the photos from her photographer to share with you.  I really think they are going to turn out adorable. 

If you are getting ready to tie the knot and would like a customized "Just Married" sign to match your theme and colors email me at inspiremecrafts@yahoo.com for a quote.  In general, they run between $22 - $40 depending on the details and embellishments you would like. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Terra Cotta Pot Bird Feeder

"The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese".  ~Author Unknown
Spring is here and has enlightened us to new discoveries for my son to explore with all his senses.  He stops to smell every single flower, listens to the birds chirp, and looks and talks to the ants...among many other things.  To bring some of the birds to us, we created these terra cotta pot bird feeders.  The decorated bird feeder craft project fits right into our lifestyle...easy, cute, and fun for the whole family.  Here's what you'll need (to make 1 bird feeder):

MATERIALS:

large terra cotta pot bottom
medium terra cotta pot
paint
2 medium sized wooden balls with holes
wire
paint brush
strong adhesive, glue gun
OPTIONAL:  beads, paper, decoupage

HOW-TO:

1.  Start by painting your terra cotta pots and the wooden balls.  Allow to dry.

2.  If you are a talented painter, or would like your children to do it, you can decorate your pots with designs.  If you are like me and can't draw or paint, you may choose to decoupage some paper onto it.  If you decide to take this route, I suggest cutting the paper into triangles or squares and overlapping them.  Put the decoupage on both sides and keep overlapping until you have your desired look.  Allow to dry.

3.  Take your wire ( I used about 1 yard and cut off the excess after I was done with the whole process) and stick one end through the wooden ball.  String the wooden ball all the way to the middle of the wire.  Then take both ends of the wire and insert them into the large opening of the pot and through the little hole on the bottom of the terra cotta pot until the ball is up against the pot.   (see picture for clarification).  Then take the two wires and insert into the second ball.  Bring ball down until it is at the bottom of the terra cotta pot.  There should now be one ball in the inside of the pot and one on the other side all connected with the same wire. 

4. Take your extra strong adhesive, or glue gun, and apply to the large open rim of the terra cotta pot. Quickly stick it to the center of the large terra cotta pot bottom.  Let dry. 

When I started the project I thought bright colors for our bird feeder would be fun, but once I started it I realized it looked more like a sombrero!

5. If you choose, add some beads to the wire and tie a knot at the top.

Look at how hard my son is concentrating while trying to get the bead on the wire!  I was actually impressed that he got some.

6.  Add some bird seed and hang!  Let the birds enjoy and start your bird watching. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Cream Cheese & Strawberry Crepes

"Happy Mother's Day!"

Happy Mother's Day to all those fabulous & groovy moms!  I love today because it is my ONE day of the year where everything is about me.  Oh wait...my husband says I claim my birthday as that day also.  So please forgive me...I get TWO days a year where I get to do anything I want and most importantly choose what I am NOT going to do.  This entails...cooking, cleaning, diaper changing, errands, and whatever else I decide to claim immunity to.  Now, don't get my wrong...my husband is such a huge help around the house on a day to day basis, but we all know where most of the weight falls - on us!

Today ended up being another perfect Mother's Day for me. It started with the little man waking up just a little too early, but letting me lay there for just a few minutes longer. Then the hubby made me these delicious crepes...my absolute favorite (recipe at the end of post). Then the little man went on to say "Appy Otter's Day!" all day long followed by pointing out my zits. Yep....he likes to point out my zits and even tries to pick them. Now what mom does not like being told by their two year old that they have a crater face on the day where they are suppose to be pampered and feel beautiful? I can handle the reality, but I cringe at the thought of being in public with the little man and him pointing at some insecure teenager saying "zit, zit, zit, zit". I would be mortified!

But back to my perfect Mother's Day. While the kitchen was being cleaned after a delicious breakfast, the little man was watching Dirty Dancing with me. It was the part where Baby and Patrick Swayze perform at the other club and attempt the infamous lift. I hear "pease" (aka please) as my son jumps off the couch and anxiously says "pease....dance" as he pulls my arm to lift me up to the middle of the living room floor. My 2 year old wanted to dance with me just like they were on Dirty Dancing! My heart dropped. We twirled, hopped, tried to salsa, and we even did the lift - roles reversed of course! It was so wonderful I can't even explain. And then it was followed by the little man peeing all over me. Hmmm..

The day was filled with yummy treats and lots of laughs and thats all I can ask for. If I was so lucky to have something so delish I thought I better share the recipe for these elegant cream cheese crepes.

INGREDIENTS

4 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup flour
1 tbsp butter, melted - no substitutes
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp sugar

CREAM CHEESE FILLING
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp almond or vanilla extract
2 cups sour cream

Beat eggs and milk with a whisk in a bowl. Add flour, salt, and sugar until texture is smooth. Add melted butter and vanilla. Blend well. Place mixture in refrigerator for 30 minutes to help batter thicken.

For each crepe, put two to three tblspns batter into skillet over low to medium heat. Tilt to spread batter evenly, creating a thin crepe. When crepe is light brown, turn and cook second side for about 15 seconds more. Slide crepe onto wax paper or foil to cool. Continue making crepes until all the batter is gone.

To begin the filling, use a food processor or electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, sugar, and extract. Mix in the sour cream and blend well. Fill crepes and serve with a fresh fruit garnish. You can't go wrong with strawberries! Now enjoy!

***Recipe is from Monica Johnson in the May 2008 Albemarle Family Magazine***

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Little Man's 2nd Birthday

Our little man is growing up and is now officially in his 2's.  So far...so good!  Here are some pics from his UVA celebration.  Most 2 year olds want Thomas the Train, Elmo, Mickey Mouse, or Curious George.  Not our son...he's obsessed with orange and blue, "Paah- Vaaah" (aka. the mascot, Cavman), and anything with the 'V' Saber.  In a college town, its EVERYWHERE, and as a result we currently have the world's biggest University of Virginia fan. We still have his room decked out in Cougs stuff so he'll remember that he'll always be a Coug. 

The frosting and sprinkles on the cupcakes did not stand a chance with the birthday boy.  However, the actual cupcakes weren't touched by the little man....the adults definitely took care of that part. 

We made the birthday a whole day event for the little man.  He loves to help me bake so in the morning we made the cupcakes and then he decorated his with sprinkles.  After his nap, we decorated his "Birthday Boy" crown from the DollarTree with his favorite stickers, markers and glitter glue.  And finally, Nana and mom made the adorable banners.  We just used construction paper and some ribbon.  I LOVE this idea because it really can give a "WOW" factor for oh so little money.  Imagine if you had some adorable papers and did this...it would be perfect for a baby shower. 

It's so weird to think the little man is 2 already.  He has been such a joy and is just cracking us up every day.  Who knew a 2 year old could be so funny? 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Photo Puzzle #2

"Insanity is hereditary; you get it from your children." - Sam Levenson

If you liked yesterday's photo puzzle, then check out this alternative idea - The Photo Puzzle Collage Book (that's a long name!).  This version is a little more my style....let me explain.  If you aren't quite the perfectionist you wish you were, then make this version. Since I made this with the traced puzzle pieces it was doomed to not fit together perfectly.  Doing it this way is quicker and you don't have to worry about cutting and tracing everything just perfectly like idea #1.  Both are cute ideas so it just depends on your time and whether or not you are a complete perfectionist.  If you are a perfectionist...please come clean my house!

MATERIALS

Scrapbook puzzle or regular puzzle
Paper
Pictures
Glue, Scissor
Ribbon
Hole Punch
Brad

HOW-TO

1.  Print out photos to size.
2.  Trace puzzle pieces onto various photos.
3.  Cut out photos.
4.  Adhere photo to puzzle piece.
5.  Decorate front 'page'.
6.  Punch hole in approximately the same spot on every puzzle piece. 
7.  Stick brad through all the pieces.  Close brad on back.
8.  Voila!  An adorable photo puzzle collage for mother's day. 

I hope you are starting to get ideas for Mother's Day!  It's just around the corner and I really hope you are able to create something beautiful for her. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Photo Puzzle #1

"A suburban mother's role is to deliver children obstetrically once, and by car forever after."  - Peter De Vries

I've had some puzzle pieces for awhile just waiting for the right project.  Luckily it came just in time for Mother's Day. I made two versions of this - one is an actual puzzle you can put together (today's project) and the other is more of a photo collage book (tomorrow's project). 

Before you start, be sure to trace the puzzle pieces.  I purchased mine at a craft store.  If you trace them, then you can use them over and over without purchasing them every time.  Use the back of a notepad for a heavier paper/cardboard.  Can't find the scrapbook puzzle pieces at the craft store? Go to the DollarTree and find a puzzle from there that you can use. 

MATERIALS:
Scrapbook puzzle or regular puzzle
Paper
Pictures
Glue, Scissor
Mod Podge

HOW-TO:

1.  I simply started with a piece of scrapbook paper. 
2.  Adhere photos and a message. 
3.  Turn over the scrapbook paper and trace the puzzle pieces onto the back.
4.  Cut out paper puzzle pieces. 
5.  Adhere paper pieces to puzzle.  Cut off any excess paper. 
6.  Finish with Mod Podge. Be careful it doesn't drip onto sides because it will make it harder to put the puzzle together.
7.  I then packaged mine together with all the pieces on top of each other, wrapped in ribbon, with a "Happy Mother's Day" note. 

Stay tuned for tomorrow's second puzzle idea!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Refrigerator Quotes

"Who are all these children and why are they calling me mom?"

Everyone needs a little inspiration.  Whether its to get us through the day between poopy diapers and screaming children, or just something to remind us to make the most of our life, a few words of inspiration are good for all of us. 

This refrigerator quote project was made for another mother I know for Mother's Day.  I simply decorated a CD tin with paper, printed some quotes, and then made my marble magnets.  Package it all together and you have an adorable gift perfect for any occasion.  Create themes with the quotes and it can be a gift for a newly married couple, new parents, for graduation, or just to get through a rough time or to enjoy a good laugh. 

Be inspired, get creative and have fun!

Mother's Day

Mother's day is just around the corner (May 11th, 2008 for those of you a little behind) and its time to start thinking about what special handmade gifts you can make for the most important woman in the world. So welcome to your one stop resource for Mother's Day quotes and Mother's Day craft ideas. I've created a page dedicated to helping you figure out the perfect gift.  Go to my Mother's Day page by clicking here to spark your creative imagination. 

I will be adding more and more quotes and ideas daily so be sure to check back regularly and don' forget to check back soon for Father's Day ideas.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

More Custom Hanging Letters

"I hate four letter words:  Wash, Cook, Dust, Iron"

I may hate washing, cooking, dusting, and ironing, but I do love creating beautiful things.  Remember when I was having a great week and received some new custom orders for my hanging letters?  Well, here are some pictures of the finished products.  The customer gave me the colors of the room and then I emailed her some pictures of different options.  She chose her favorite pattern and then I created these letters for her daugthers' room. 

She emailed me the following once she saw a picture of them:

"All that I can say is WOW!!! they are the most precious things i have ever seen!!! i ADORE them...i will check in the am to see if they are listed on your etsy shop and purchase them then!!!again, i LOVE them....you are extremely talented with this!! my boss is having a baby in July, once i know what "it" is and the name, I will definitely get one for them!!!
thank you"

I was so happy that she loved them as much as I did that it was really a motivation to try and get more organized in how I approach selling these.  Now that my parents are gone from their week visit, I am really going to concentrate on getting more of these up on my Etsy Shop.  Until then, you can always email me at inspiremecrafts@yahoo.com to order a custom one.  I currently charge $15 for each letter. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Chocolate Revel Bars

"Exercise is a dirty word... Every time I hear it, I wash my mouth out with chocolate. "

I'm not one to make promises, but I will promise you this....this recipe for Chocolate Revel Bars will not disappoint!  As the recipient put it..."These are absolutely sinful!".  And you know my favorite part of this treat?  You can only have one at a time!  If you are a cookie addict like me and can never just stop at one, then this is the solution you've been looking for.  They are so fudgy and rich that you truly can only enjoy one serving...unless you add some vanilla ice-cream.  If you add the ice cream you could probably do a serving and a half!

It may look complicated at first, but it really is easy. 

Prep:  30 minutes
Bake:  25 minutes
Oven:  350 degrees

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup butter, softened
2 cups packed brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3 cups quick cooking rolled oats
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate pieces
1  14-oz can sweetened condensed milk (1 1/4 cups)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 tsp vanilla

HOW-TO:

1.  Set aside 2 tablespoons of the butter.  In a large mixing bowl beat the remaining butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add brown sugar and baking soda.  Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl.  Beat in eggs and 2 tsp vanilla until combined.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.  Stir in the oats.

2.  For filling, in a medium saucepan combine the reserved 2 tblspns butter, chocolate pieces, and sweetened condensed milk.  Cook over low heat until chocolate melts, stirring occasionally.  Remove from heat.  Stir in the nuts and 2 tsps vanilla.

3.  Pres two-thirds (about 3 1/3 cups) of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 15x10x1 inch baking pan.  Spread filling evenly over the oat mixture.  Dot remaining oat mixture over the filling.

4.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes or until top is light brown.  Chocolate filling will look moist.  Cook completely.  Cut into bars.

You're dying to make these now aren't you?!  If you are familiar with my blog, you can probably guess where I got this delicious recipe....the Better Homes & Gardens Homemade Cookies book. 

Enjoy! 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Custom Hanging Letter - Lily

"If you spend too much time learning the trick of the trade, you may not learn the trade"

I had to share with you my excitement!  I placed one of my hanging letters on my Etsy account a couple months ago and have been meaning to add more, but as many of you know -nothing ever goes exactly as planned. If I could just get two more hours (kid-free of course) to my day I would be set!  I'll even compromise, just make me one of those people who can function off of 5 hours of sleep.  How do they do that?  I can't even get by with 8....I really need 9 to be fully myself.  If only.....hmmm. :)

Anyway, back to my excitement!  Someone contacted me through my Etsy shop about doing a custom letter for her daughter.  She gave me the colors and voila!, 'Lily' was my first custom order...from a stranger!  I was SOOOO excited.  And then it gets better.  Someone else contacted me about possibly doing 2 for her daughters.  Yay!  I am so excited people are enjoying these.  I LOVE making them, but have been struggling figuring out the best way to sell them.  This seems to be working while I build my account and can produce more samples, etc.  I hope you enjoy looking through this and if you would like a custom one made for someone you know (or yourself) you know who to contact...me!  inspiremecrafts@yahoo.com.  Stay tuned to my Etsy shop (click on the link on left sidebar) for more additions in the future. 

One more thing....everyday I am overwhelmed with the positive emails I get from everyone about this site.  I am REALLY glad you enjoy it and I hope I can continue to spark some creativity into your everyday.  Thanks for your support and encouragement. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun! 

Gotta Make it...with the kids: Terra Cotta Pot Ladybug & Bee

Ladybug
by Maria Fleming

Ladybugs all dressed in red
Strolling through the flowerbed.
If I were tiny just like you
I'd creep among the flowers too!

Spring is here and its my inspiration for all my projects lately.  How can it not be when my son stops to talk to the ants and bugs?! Ladybugs and bees have invaded our outdoors lately so we decided to make our own little pests to keep in the house - ones that can stay and that I won't shoo outdoors.  This is a great project for the kids and to my surprise my son actually wants to play with them instead of just look at them!  He also keeps calling our bee a butterfly!  Hmmm....

MATERIALS:

2 terra cotta pots (for each bug/animal)  - DollarTree has them 4 for $1.
Paint
Wiggly Eyes
Wooden ball
Foam
Pom Poms
Glue, paint brush

HOW-TO:

1.  Glue larger part of terra cotta pots together.
2.  Paint desired color and let dry.
3.  Paint wooden ball desired color.  Let dry.
4.  Glue wooden ball to top of clay pots.
5.  Add wiggly eyes.
6.  Using craft foam (or paper) cut out wings, antennae, mouth, etc. 
7.  Glue on wings, antennae, mouth, etc. 
8. Enjoy!

Don't be limited by what I did!  In fact, I realized that the ladybug needed some little legs...oh well. But imagine the possibilities with these clay pots.  After gluing the terra cotta pots together, turn them sideways and start imagining all the other animals you could make out them.  Lions, tigers, and bears ...oh my!  Actually, I think a pig and elephant would be the cutest ever! 

Hope you enjoy making this project with your kids...I sure did!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Hugs & Kisses Candy Tin

"Hugs & Kisses"

Stop what you are doing!  Go grab your keys, a $1 and get in the car and start heading to your local DollarTree.  Oh yeah...don't forget the kids in this excitement!  The DollarTree currently has these adorable tins in different sizes and designs for $1!  You will definitely want to stock up on these.  Use them to give cookies, gifts, party favors, etc.  Again, the possibilities are endless and they will be perfect to have on hand for those last minute gifts you have to put together.  And how can you possibly go wrong when they are only $1?

I chose to fill mine with Hershey Hugs & Kisses and send it to our family friends that are in the hospital with their daughter.  I included in a note to share with their nurses and doctors that were taking such good care of their little princess. 

Hope you enjoy this quick, easy, and super affordable idea!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun! 

Fun in the Sun!

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"  ~Robin Williams

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!  The sun was out and my son was never short of telling me he wanted to go "Outside".  Actually, it sounds more like "Ite-side".  And as you can tell by the picture he is now in the stage of making his own choices like what shoes he wants to wear. His frog rain boots are his favorite right now.  Every time he wears them he has to say "frog" over and over again.  The only problem?...."frog" does not sound like "frog".  In fact, it sounds like a four letter bad word that starts with 'f' and ends with 'ck".  I'm sure you can figure it out.  Needless to say, every time we are going out in public I try and suggest other shoes.  For the trip to the post office on Saturday, I did not win that battle and so we mosied on off with frog boots and shorts for our spring attire without a rain cloud in sight.  Luckily he was being a little shy (so unusual for him!) and we didn't have any incidents where parents looked at me like I was the evil mother of the west with her child cursing the slow post office workers. 

With all the time "ite-side" this weekend, my son has started to explore new things.  He was mesmerized by ants and decided to have a conversation in jibberish with them.  The only thing I got out of their top secret conversation was the "bye-bye" at the end.  The little man even decided to wave goodbye to them.  Precious...just precious!  With little man discovering new things and enjoying all the bright colors outside, you can guess that I had tons of inspiration from this weekend for new projects.  We completed a couple, so stay tuned this week for the unveiling.  They're fun to do with kids and even you will enjoy the outcome!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun! 

Gotta Make It: Hanging Letter

"I pray that my daughter does not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try her, as though some strange thing happened to her; but that she will rejoice to the extent that she partakes of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, she may also be glad with exceeding joy." 1 Peter 4:12-13

Making this hanging letter was particularly special to me.  We got the heart-wrenching news from our dear friends that their 14-month old daughter went limp at daycare and they called 911.  The daycare immediately hired a lawyer and are not saying what happened.  All they can assume is that she was accidentally dropped because she has severe brain trauma and swelling.  Poor Alexis is going to have a long road ahead of her, but her parents are staying positive and hundreds of people are posting their prayers and thoughts for them on carepages.com.  They finally got to hold their daughter for the first time (she's still sedated and unconscious) since last Thursday and when her dad was saying the above prayer she started to move her leg more than she has.  There is always hope.  Alexis' mom wanted to make sure the room looked pretty when Alexis woke up so she has been hanging posters and butterflies.  I decided to add to that decor with this hanging letter. 

Please keep Alexis in your prayers and thoughts.  Its a heart-wrenching story and they have had a roller coaster of a ride in the last week with the many ups and downs of  her progress.  Strength, hope, love, and support have all been priceless in the situation and we can only continue to hope and pray. Hopefully this letter will bring a smile and some glamour to her room!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun! 

Gotta Make It: Soda Box Plastic Bag Holder

"Reduce, Re-use, Recycle"

If you haven't heard about the three R's (reduce, re-use, & recycle) then you haven't been turning on your t.v., computer, or opening a newspaper.  Shoot...even in People and US Weekly they talk about "Reduce, Re-use, Recycle"!  So what's stopping you from following those simple guidelines?  Sometimes its just a little lack of creativity and organization.  When I finally had my ah-ha moment with this I couldn't believe it took me this long to figure it out. 

Before I go on lets get something straight.  I'm not the recycling queen...in fact, I probably could do way more than I do, but I am trying.  For example, I know cloth diapers for little man would be better for the environment, but it would not be better for my sanity.  Disposable diapers are here to stay in our family.  Although..... I do let little man run around naked a lot so that cuts back on diapers because he'll use the "potty" if he has no diaper on.  See...I'm doing more than I am giving myself credit for :).

Now that we know I am not the recycling queen and still get my groceries in plastic bags... lets move on to your quick and simple solution for those plastic bags.  If you drink soda (a.ka. pop, coke) and get these fridge boxes DON'T THROW YOUR NEXT ONE OUT!  Instead of going out to buy a $10 plastic bag organizer for under your sink or pantry just use your soda box.  It has a convenient opening to put the bags in and get them out and they won't crowd under your sink like they use to do in my house.  Every time I opened the cupboard they would come falling out....nightmare!  You could even attach it to the pantry door with a quick little nail so its not on the ground. 

So there is my idea for re-using.  We re-use our plastic bags, and I needed a creative solution to organize that chaos.  Who knew a soda pop box could provide that solution!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!!!

Gotta Make It: Decorated Wine Bottles

"Wine lovers age better"

I love my wine and most likely it rubbed off from my parents....the true wine lovers!  I'm an amateur compared to them. :)  One day I looked in my pantry and I saw wine bottles, and more wine bottles, and still more wine bottles waiting to go to recycling.  That sentence makes me sound like an alcoholic...but I'm not - I promise!  We just don't have curbside recycling so I wait until the bin is absolutely overflowing before I take it to the recycling center.  Those creative juices started to flow trying to figure out what I could possibly do with some empty wine bottles.  I decided to decorate the wine bottles to add some more decor to my kitchen. 

I started with Chalkboard spray paint, let it dry, and then went from there.  The first wine bottle I added some wine themed paper, a wine quote, ribbon and was done! Pretty simple and looks super cute. 

The second wine bottle I actually took advantage of using the Chalkboard paint.  I really like this idea, but I must admit I think my execution was a little poor.  First of all, I don't have the best handwriting.  With a normal pen its okay, but when I use chalk there is no chance.  So just pretend its in a pretty cursive and you'll get the idea! 

I decided to use it to list my imaginary menu for the evening (...as if I am going to make some fried calamari and grilled pork loin....I'm the baker, not the cook!  That fancy food isn't on my ability list.)  You could also write your wine list for the evening or directions for a wine tasting party.  The ideas are really limitless.  It would be extremely unique if you bought those mini wine bottles, sprayed them with the chalkboard paint and then used them as your place 'cards' for each guest at your dinner party.  Add a wine quote and it could be a party favor for them as well.  I have some wine quotes in my Quotes, Sayings, and Poems section that you can use.

I hope you enjoyed today's idea and hopefully it sparked some creative juices in that head of yours!  We were stuck inside on Sunday because of the rain so I actually was able to get some projects done to share with you.  Yay! 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Bridal Shower Invitation

"Two souls with but a single thought, Two hearts that beat as one." - Franz Joseph von Munch-Bellinghausen

 Sorry I haven't been around lately. :(  I really wish I could have been crafting up new ideas and sharing them, but things got busy.  Let's see...my husband had an insane work schedule for the last two weeks so I was basically a single mom, my little man has gone into destruction mode so there is no chance of using the computer or crafting when he is around, and then we went to watch our Washington State Cougars in the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in Charlotte, NC.  Its about a 4 hour drive from Charlottesville, VA and although we lost (bad) it was well worth the trip.  For the supermoms out there, that may not seem like a lot but for me it was!  Its amazing how much work and energy it takes to travel with a toddler even if its just for a couple of days. 

But now I am here so that's all that matters :).  My neighbor is getting married in May and she loves RED almost as much as I do.  I saw this invitation on her fridge and just had to share to prove to you how much of a difference a little ribbon can make.  You can clearly see the before and then the after.  Which one do you prefer?  Hmmmm...... :)

She used an XActo knife to cut out slits along the upper portion of the dresses and then wove the ribbon in and out.  In the back she used some white mailing labels to hold them in place.  Genius and gorgeous.

So next time you have a store bought invitation, or are even making your own, take one more look at it and see if you can add some adorable ribbon some where to add that extra special touch!  I can't wait to bring you some more ideas so you'll see me back here VERY SOON....I promise!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Cereal Box Magazine Holder

"The brightest light I can hope to see is the one you give to me when you smile" - Maya Angelou

If you are like my family, you go through tons of cereal boxes and as hard as you try to stay organized, there just always seems to be another organization project to tackle.  Currently, I am trying to organize my little computer nook and its been a slow process.  But I finally stole  a few moments today to make my space a little more beautiful and functional. 

I cut these magazine holders out of cereal boxes about 2 months ago, but never got around to making them look pretty.  So today with a little paper and ribbon, you can't even tell that they use to be Honey Nut Cheerios and a Popsicle Box. 

As you can see, I've conveniently only shown you the top shelf of my computer nook.  I took a picture of my 'before', but am not going to reveal that disaster until I can show you the completed 'after' picture.  A little at a time...

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Happy Easter

Happy Easter everyone!  Enjoy your day with your families and hopefully you have some beautiful weather like we do!

Gotta Make It: Silhouette Photo

"Grow old with me.  The best is yet to be..."

Wednesday was our 3rd Wedding Anniversary and its so hard to believe!  Life has been crazy since then living in 3 different states and having the little man who has also lived in 3 different states.  But to be honest, I don't think I would have it any other way.  Well, I actually take that back.  I would have someone unpack EVERYTHING for me next time. 

As a gift, I made this silhouette picture for my hubby out of a picture from our first dance.  Truth be told, this 'anniversary gift' was probably more for me than him...but he was a good sport and still seemed to appreciate it.  He knows I get a high off of this stuff and has never complained about my trips to the craft store or the DollarTree - unless I drag him along with me...then he complains! 

I found this adorable damask frame at Target a while ago on sale for only $2!  You can't pass that up and it was just waiting to be filled.  Here's the easy how-to and materials list...

MATERIALS

Frame
Picture
Cardstock - silhouette, accents, and background
Embellishments - sparkles, ribbon, quotes
Small scissors, spray adhesive, glue

HOW-TO

1.  Print a picture out that you want to use as your silhouette.  If the picture is not okay reversed, then remember to choose the 'Mirror Image' option on your print settings. 

2. Adhere the picture to the cardstock with glue.  I used black paper and a spray adhesive.

3.  Using small scissors cut out the picture. Flip over to see the silhouette.

4.  Add any embellishments.  I cut out a dress and veil from ivory cardstock and added some 'bling' with sparkles.

5.  Adhere the silhouette to a background piece of paper. I chose a red to go with our room and it was also one of the colors in our wedding.

6.  Then I added a quote at the bottom from a quote sticker stack I had. 

7.  Put in frame and give as the perfect homemade gift. 

Its really easy, I promise.  It just takes some time finding pictures that would make a good silhouette and a steady hand while you cut!  Enjoy.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Baking Pan Wall Art

Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort. - Franklin D Roosevelt

You will not believe what I used for this piece of wall art!  Well, maybe you will since I put it in the header... but its still hard to believe.  I took a pizza baking sheet, from the DOLLAR TREE, and turned it into a one of a kind inspiration board for my own little nook in the house.  I used Chalkboard paint so that around the brim I could write current quotes or thoughts that will help inspire me and then I can change it whenever I want!

But don't let your imagination stop there.  You could make this into one large statement...I just need more wall space to try it.  For instance, if you took 9 of them and created a 3 X 3 formation using different, but color coordinating patterns, you could make quite the statement for under $20!  I would recommend using the same paint color on all the pans to bring it together or better yet leave the shiny silver.  You know...I do have an empty wall in my bedroom...I might just have to try it. I'll keep you updated!

Or just create three of them and maybe use the words "Live, Love, Laugh" or "Family, Friends, Faith"...or any combination of words your family holds near and dear :). 

The other great thing about this is its magnetic so you could hang pictures or inspiration just like that!  Can you tell I'm excited about this project?  For my version, you'll need....

MATERIALS:

Round Baking Sheet (check your $1 Store)
Paper
Chipboard letters or stickers
Chalkboard Paint
Scissors, spray adhesive, glue gun

HOW-TO:

1.  Outside in a well-ventilated area, spray the outside portion of the pan with Chalkboard paint.  Let dry following the can's instructions.

2.  Cut out a circle in your favorite paper.  Apply with spray adhesive once chalkboard paint is dry.

3.  Add the chipboard letters to spell out your word or phrase. 

4. Add any quotes you would like with chalk around the edge. 

5. You might even add some ribbon if you want to hang it from.  I add a little hook on the back with glue to hang on my wall.

There you go...an idea for creative wall art anyone can afford and make in no time!  I hope you enjoyed this project from the Dollar Diva and get ready for more to come in the future. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

And the Winner is....

It's time to draw the lucky winner for the custom decorated hanging letter from the Ultimate Blog Party last week.  Did you guys have fun?  I had a blast browsing around, but I still haven't put a dent in all the blogs that participated!  I enjoyed meeting everyone and really hope I'll see you around...and if you do stop by leave a comment so I know you were here! 

Well, here are all the names from the comments....

Little man picking the lucky winner....

And the winner is...

DEBI from craftysblog.blogspot.com!!!! Yay to Debi and sorry about my horrible picture :(*. 

If you would like to get more information on a custom designed hanging letter for only $15 please contact me at inspiremecrafts.com!  They are always a popular gift with any age.  Happy St. Patty's Day!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Why should you never iron a 4-leaf clover? You don't want to press your luck. - Daryl Strouth

Happy St. Patty's Day everyone!  I'm going to have to admit between Easter and working on our taxes on Sunday....I didn't leave much time for St Patty's Day projects.  I won't even get you started with the taxes except that it wasn't the actual tax process that drove me insane, but trying to get the software to work on our computer.  I did upgrades, then the internet wouldn't work, did system restore about 4 times until I gave up. I just need a new computer...someday!  :)  But what it all comes down to is that as mothers sometimes we really can't do it all.  However, with a little creativity you can always come up with something quick and easy.  I found these mini graham crusts in the Jello-O/Pudding aisle at the grocery store and then found some green pudding.  I was hoping for a mint chocolate chip flavor, but its pistaccio.  I wasn't too sure about this, but to be honest it isn't that bad.  So now we have a festive dessert for St. Patrick's day. 

Here are some interesting facts for you to enjoy that I found at kaboose.com!

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the highest number of leaves found on a clover is 14!

One estimate suggests that there are about 10 000 regular three-leaf clovers for every lucky four-leaf clover.

Legend says that each leaf of the clover means something: the first is for hope, the second for faith, the third for love and the fourth for luck.

Gotta Make It: Cookie Gift Bag

"Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life"

When my husband and I decided to move to the opposite coast that both of our family live, we knew we would have our work cut out for us.  But luckily, we have been blessed with some very kind hearts who have quickly opened their arms to us and helped us out with our son.  My neighbor is a sweetheart and is getting her Masters in Education.  She watches my son on Thursday's for a couple hours while I go teach some ballet classes.  And she does it for FREE!  She is always offering to help and he absolutely loves it when she comes down for their play time.  She was defending her thesis tomorrow so we decided to make her a little good luck gift.  Now..as a reminder we were stuck at home with that icky bug so I had limited options.  I'll tell you my how-to and then things I would have done differently if I could have gotten out of the house.

MATERIALS:

Cellophane bag
Paper (cardstock) or scrapbook paper
Printer - optional
Ribbon
Hole punch
Yummy cookies

HOW-TO:  (click on picture to enlarge)

Notes on things to do differently or to avoid:

1.  I used photo paper because I didn't have cardstock. Cardstock would be much better. 
2. Make sure you have ink.  As you can see my black ink was a little low.
3.  Have a heavy duty hole punch!  I used a normal hand held one and it made me work!  Then I had to take an X-Acto knife to finish it off.  I think that's about it....Have fun!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!