Brassy Apple

DIY fabric button earrings by Amy Cornwell

2012-02-29T03:28:00.001-07:00

Hi! I'm Amy and I have a crafty & lifestyle blog over here and a shop here. My "day job" is making jewelry (maybe you've seen my True Love ring??) but I love being crafty in any form or fashion. Creating is in my blood and I'm so happy to be guest posting on Megan's blog today. Hasn't it been an amazing month of crafty goodness?! I'm loving it!

I have a super easy but fashionable project for you today. We've all seen the fabric covered button earrings, but I put my own little twist on it today. This is the first time I've made fabric covered buttons, and I was amazed at how easy it was! Let's get started!

You'll need a fabric button making kit (you can get this at any craft store), a scrap of fabric, paper clips, and ear wires. Tools you'll need are scissors, wire cutters, and a hot glue gun (or adhesive of your choice).

Make your fabric covered buttons by following your kits instructions (it's super easy!). In four more steps you'll have some pretty dangle earrings...

1) First you'll clip off the button loops from the back side.

2) Next clip off the top part of the paperclip, making a long skinny U shape.

3) Add a large dollop of hot glue and press the paperclip into the glue.

Be careful at this step, the paperclip and button radiate the heat very quickly.

If you have more patience than me, you can use a glue like E6000 and let it dry

before completing the last step.

4) Finally, open the end of your ear wire by twisting it sideways and

slipping on your button. Twist it back shut and you're done!

If you'd like to go all out and make some beaded dangles, you just have a few more steps and you can add some extra fun to the buttons. You'll need a few extra things for these: round nose pliers, 24 gauge wire and beads.

1) Follow steps 1-3 above. To make a wrapped loop, wrap your wire around your pliers making a circle. Then take the short "tail" of the wire and wrap it around the long tail about 3x.

2) Add the bead and start your second wrapped loop by bending the wire at a 90 degree angle.

3) Make the second loop around the bottom of the bead.

4) Before you finish the loop, attach the button. Finally, finish the wrap and add the earwire.

Thanks for letting me share with you today! I'd love to see your button dangle earrings too so if you make some, please post them on my facebook page!

DIY ring from Little Cherry Blossoms

2012-02-28T03:18:00.001-07:00

Little Cherry Blossoms is here today sharing a ring tutorial with us!

These are the absolute cutest rings ever. We have had them at Little Cherry Blossoms for the last few years, and everyone loves them. I am going to teach you how to make them yourself!

Here are the supplies that you need to make these cute little rings.

.5 mm bead and jewelry cord. I use Stretch Magic.

Small beads for the back of the ring

Large beads for the front of the ring

3 hole spacers. I found mine at Joann's, but I know you can find them on Amazon or online.

Here is a photo of the spacers and the cord. See how the spacers have 3 holes in them? My spacer holes were actually a little small, and I think it might be better to find a bit bigger hole on line.

Here is a picture of Jenn's bead stash. You can use any combo of beads that you want. The small ones are for the palm side of the ring and the large are for the focal point of the ring.

You will be making 3 strings of beads. Each string will have its own cord.

I like to alternate which side I tie the string off on to make the stress even out. You will usually have between 7-10 small beads and 3-5 large beads depending on the size that you want.

Above you can see one strand and two strands done.

Here, I am tying off the final strand. Don't pull too hard or you will break your cord and beads will tumble into your lap!

And you're done! The five minute ring!

I wanted to add in a pic of how it actually looks on your hand, even though this isn't the best photo.

And, wow, it is way hard to take a photo of your own hand.

Pretty soon you will have lots of pretty rings to give away.

By the way, these rings are intended for adults, not children.

Make it Monday #20

2012-02-26T17:59:00.013-07:00

Happy Monday!!! I've got a fun adventure to share with you this week about what happened over my weekend! BUT until them - let's see your creativity! I love sharing them on the Brassy Apple FB page, twitter and pinning some too!

Last weeks most viewed link was this St. Patty's day Mantel:

It could be YOUR project next week that gets featured!
Let's link up!
1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

DIY fabric charm necklace from Rae Gun Ramblings

2012-02-24T03:02:00.001-07:00

Wood Board Book Page and Fabric Charms

Hi, I'm Marissa from Rae Gun Ramblings.

I blog about all things crafty, tasty, pretty and just plain

life. I'm an insanely huge fan of young adult fiction (love

Potter and Hunger Games), I am married to a super talented

musician and

I also run a handmade baby and toddler clothing shop on etsy called

Rae Gun. Hopefully you'll

stop by my blog and shop and see some of my latest adventures and

maybe share some of your own at my What We Wore
and Made Link party.

Today I want to share a tutorial on how to make awesome necklaces. I

found these cute wood pieces at Michael's and knew I needed them. That

combined with my love of fabric and books these necklaces were

destined to be. You can pretty much use any fabric or paper to make

totally personalized necklaces, tags to go on other things and more.

Plus they are so easy, inexpensive, and fun. I'll admit it, I may be

slightly addicted.

What You Need

wood crafting rectangles (any shape would work though)
fabric, book page, or other design paper
ring findings
something to make holes (I love my Crop-A-Dile)
Mod Podge
paint
brush

What to Do

1. Identify and size your fabric, book page or paper. For the fabric I

just traced around my wood and cut. For my book page I scanned in a

page I liked, resized it and then printed it.

2. Paint wood and let dry.

3. Put your fabric or paper on the wood using a layer of Mod Podge. I

liked the fabric texture on top so while I did a top coat of Mod Podge

over the paper ones I just did the under layer on the fabric one. Let

dry.

4. Punch holes. (I recommend practicing on a different piece of wood first).

5. Add ring findings and attach to a chain.

6. Look at your awesome creation and wear it with pride.

I hope you like this. I'd love to see your creations if you try it

out. Also if you're a Hunger Games Geek like me I'll be sharing my

District 12 wire wrapped coal pendant tute on my blog next week. I hope

you'll stop by and say hello and share some of your own creativity at

my What We
Wore and Made link party.

DIY Ribbon and Resin Necklace from Tatertots & Jello

2012-02-23T03:24:00.002-07:00

Hi Brassy Apple readers!!

I'm Jen from Tatertots & Jello. I am such a fan of Meg's and all of her amazing ideas. And I am SO exited to be here!!

Today I am sharing a little Spring Necklace idea. Can I tell you how excited I am for SPRING???? I can't wait. In the meantime -- here's a little project that is helping me fight away the winter blues. And it uses Dimensional Magic -- which is SUCH a fun medium.

Ribbon and Resin Necklaces

Here's what you need:

Scrapbook Paper or Stickers

Metal, Wood or Chipboard -- for the back of the pendants

Mod Podge

Dimensional Magic

Necklace Bails

Ribbon or Chain

Here's What You Do:

Take a sticker or a piece of scrapbook paper and stick it or Mod Podge it onto your backing.
Cut out the shape in your metal, wood or chipboard backing.
Add a layer of Mod Podge to the top of the paper or sticker.
Once dry, outline the paper with Dimensional Magic, and fill it in.
Sand off the edges.
Let that dry.
A tip -- if you have bubbles, pop them with a lighter.
Add a Metal Necklace Bail to the back. Adhere it with something like E6000 or 9001.
Add some tags and cut the holes with a Cropodile.
Or add some buttons. {these are from the Dear Lizzy line from American Crafts.
Add a length of ribbon or chain and tie in a bow at the side.

And I bought a little $1 scrapbooking kit from Target and made a little necklace out of it.

This would be a fun idea if you wanted to make a necklace with a special picture, or even small pictures of your kids' faces.

Thanks for letting me share it with you!!

xoxo

DIY Embellished Leather Cuff from Material Girls Quilts

2012-02-22T03:28:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone! I am Shelby from the Material Girls Quilts in South Jordan, Utah. I first want to tell Megan, "Thank-you" for having us. I have loved reading all of the jewelry posts. I will definitely be trying a few of the tutorials out myself. I must say that this is my first tutorial, so forgive me if I don't explain it well, feel free to call me at the shop, I would be happy to answer any questions. Okay, here goes!!

Make sure if you are buying leather that it is soft, it is available in many colors.

My tutorial will be on a leather cuff bracelet, I have spotted several of these at a few of my favorite stores and boutiques at really high price points. I purchased my leather blank bracelets at a craft store. You could make your own by cutting the leather to fit your wrists and using a snap setter apply 2 snaps. If you are making your own, make sure and make it a little snug as your leather will stretch. Mine measures 2" x 7 1/2, it makes it easier to embellish at this width.

The next step is to decide how you want to embellish it, I am way into pennants right now and decided my first would be a more casual style with a pennant on it. I cut little scraps of fabrics, one inch by one inch in a pennant shape

After cutting them all out. I sewed them together. I used 5 pennants to reach across my bracelet. You could use more if needed.

auditioning embellishments

Finished bracelet, embellish as much as you like.

After I had sewn my pennants together I then laid them on the leather, (before sewing make sure that is exactly where you want them,) if you have to pick out of the leather it is not very forgiving and will leave needle holes. Now comes the fun part!! Get creative! add all kinds of buttons, pearls, rick rack you name it, it will go with leather. I couldn't just stop at one so I made a second one that is a little bit vintage-y.

I added a piece of crochet cotton lace across the bracelet,

Adding lace

Before adding the lace make sure and finish the edges so it doesn't fray.

After finishing the edges of my lace I sewed it right on to my leather cuff. I used regular cotton thread and a just a regular needle. I will have to change my needle for my next quilting project. I decided this one would be a leather, lace combo. I then cut 1 1/2 x 10" strip of satin. I sewed it to form a circle and bunched it together in the center and wrapped it with a pink jute. I added a few brass buttons and walah!, a leather and lace look.

Leather and Lace

Thanks so much everyone for letting me be a part of your very crafty world, and again Megan thank you for putting this all together. Any questions just give me a call at the shop, or post it on our blog the Material Girls Quilts

Shelby

DIY Spectacle Necklace Anthro Knockoff from A Little Tipsy

2012-02-21T04:19:00.001-07:00

Hi There! I'm super excited to be visiting here on Brassy Apple to share some bling. It is only fitting that the first time we met was sitting making Anthro knock-off necklaces at a blog conference.

I'm Michelle from A Little Tipsy.

I know what you might be thinking...A Little Tipsy? Nope. Sorry, I don't drink. Like ever. Bask in the irony.

I love to share creative projects that can be done during nap time for less than dinner out. I also host a weekly DIY Under $5 party. I love Nutella, despise all things cherry and refuse to accept that popcorn is not a meal.

So, on to the good stuff! When Megan asked for DIY accessory tutorials I knew just what I wanted to do, knock off the Quite a Spectacle necklace from Anthro! It is quirky and in true Tipsy fashion totally affordable DIY style!

Anthropologie version: $498 (no longer available) My version: $7.50

That's a 98.5% savings. ;)

Supplies:6 pairs of reading glasses (dollar store)Glasses screwdriver 8-10 Jump Rings 12 mmChain
1. Gather your glasses and remove all stickers. Use the tiny screwdriver to remove all the screws and take apart the frames. Lay six pairs of glasses in a pattern that you like to prepare to put them together.

2. Connect three pairs of glasses by placing the jump rings through the screw holes. Do this twice so you have two sets of three pairs.

3. Now connect the sets with three jump rings so the bottom of the necklace will be more rounded than pointy.

4. Add your chain. Use jump rings if it is just a chain. Mine was the chain to my husband's old pocket watch so I just looped it through one side and hooked it on the other.

Now put your awesome new necklace on and see what a spectacle you can make! And hey if you need reading glasses, you'll never be short a pair!

Make it Monday #19

2012-02-19T17:59:00.026-07:00

I love Mondays thanks to YOU!!! So make my day and share your creativity! I love sharing them on the Brassy Apple FB page, twitter and pinning some too!

Last weeks most viewed link was this Star Wars Valentine idea from Keeping it Simple:

and sqeaking in a VERY close 2nd most viewed link was this LOVE sign from Pajama Crafters:

It could be YOUR project next week that gets featured!
Let's link up!
1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

DIY Sequin Flower from Just Between Friends

2012-02-17T03:18:00.008-07:00

My name is Jonie and I blog over at Just Between Friends. I am a self proclaimed DIY-er and I LOVE a good project! I am so excited to be here today to show you a fun new flower tutorial that is perfect for any outfit that needs a little BLING. Let's get started!

To make this flower you will need:

*Sequins (I got mine at Hobby Lobby. They need to be the kind that have the tiny hole at the bottom

instead of the kind that have a hole in the middle.)

*2 felt circles (4 inches)

*matching thread

*crystal beads

*needle

Begin by folding the sequins in half with the hole at the bottom.

Next, using your needle and thread, begin attaching the sequins to the felt in a circular pattern starting on the outside.

Once you have the center sequins in place, use a little dab of hot glue to attach the crystal beads.

The bottom of your flower will have all the thread showing. To give it a more finished look and more stability, hot glue the other felt circle to the bottom. Last, attach whatever kind of pin or clip you would like and you are finished! Now it's time to try it out!

I thought it would be fun to wear it on a scarf.

And of course this flower would look great in the hair as well. (Yes, I made a pink one too.)

There you have it! Some bling that would be the perfect accessory to jazz up any outfit.

Thanks to Megan for having me over today! It was fun to come up with an accessory for "Bling it Month"!

Hope you'll stop by and visit sometime!

You can find me here:

{Blog} {Facebook} {Pinterest}

DIY Rocker Chain Necklace from Vintage Wanna Bee

2012-02-15T03:42:00.001-07:00

Hello Friends!

I'm Nichelle from Vintage Wanna Bee! I'm excited to be here on Brassy Apple, and to show you an awesome necklace tutorial! Today I will be showing you how to make your own "Rocker Chain Necklace". This necklace will add a little fun to any outfit

Let's get started!

You will need:

Scissors, Jewelry Tools, Jump Rings, Long Necklace, Different Sized Chains,

Find different sized chains for necklaces, I used some from my craft supplies and an old bracelet. Use whatever you have in your house. Cut your chains to different lengths for dimension and for a "layered" look for your necklace.

Add jump rings to the end of each chain to add to the necklace.

Put each individual chain on your necklace, arrange as desired. I put the largest chain in the middle.

Add as many chains as you would like until you like the overall look!

There you go!

Now you have a fun rocker chain necklace, to add a little glam to any outfit!

I hope you enjoyed!

Thanks so much for letting me hang out over here!

XOXO

Nichelle

You can find me here:

{SHOP} {BLOG} {FACEBOOK} {TWITTER} {PINTEREST}

DIY Necklace with Sumos Sweet Stuff

2012-02-14T03:42:00.001-07:00

The DIY accessories tutorial kicks off another great week with Sumo's Sweet Stuff! Take it away Summer!

Hello everyone!

I'm so excited/honored/happy to be posting over here. I just adore Megan, and think she is so much fun! I've only met her once in real life (which is sad; it should be more), but it's been fun getting to know her a bit over the interweb. Isn't the internet great?

I'm Sumo, or Summer if you wanna get formal. (In case you are wondering, my husband nicknamed me Sumo when we were dating. Maybe I should have been offended?)

I blog over at Sumo's Sweet Stuff.

It's a blog I started to share my crafting and creating. I also like to host giveaways, feature other bloggers, and maybe share some crazy ramblings about how much I love Diet Coke, or my relationships with Veronica and Lucy (my sewing machine and CAMEO). Some other things you should know about me are that I'm married to my best friend, I have three beautiful little girls, I'm kind of in love with my minivan, I think every seamstress should own a pair of Ginghers, I'm addicted to Pinterest, and I would make a great professional fabric shopper.

I'm excited to share this necklace tutorial with you. It is so versatile, and gives you tons of options!

Here's what you need:

- beads, beads, beads! (Yes, I realize that's a lot of beads. No, it's not even close to all the beads I own.)

- chains of varying sizes

- two large lobster clasps

- one smaller lobster clasp

- crimp beads

- scissors

- crimping tool

- beading wire

- split rings

The large flower bead had holes for two wires to string through it. So I measured the chain that would be going around my neck on one side, strung it through a small piece of wire, and then put both sides of the wire through the large bead. (Sorry, I know the picture if fuzzy; I couldn't get very good clear shots today for some reason. I'm probably one of the last bloggers on earth still using a point and shoot!)

Then I took a large lobster clasp and put it on a split ring. On the two pieces of wire that have come through the large bead, string together with a crimp bead. Then loop the wires around the split ring and back through the crimp bead. Use your crimping tool to press the crimp bead down, securing it all in place. Trim any excess wire.

Measure a second piece of chain to go around your neck. Open up one of the rings and put a smaller lobster clasp on. This will connect the two sides on the back of your neck. At the bottom of the second piece of chain, attach another split ring with a lobster clasp on it by opening up another ring and close the ring around it. My crimping tool is handy for this! This is what you've got so far!

Now it's time to start making the fun bead strands! Take a piece of wire, put a crimp bead on it, loop the wire around a split ring and back through the crimp bead. Press the crimp bead down, securing your loop around the split ring.

String on your beads to the length that you want. Secure the end with another crimp bead and split ring.

Here's how it looks attached on to your base necklace pieces.

Measure different lengths of varying sizes of chains, and hook those on to your necklace. You like?

But maybe you don't feel like wearing those clear beads. How about a strand of black pearls?

What's that? It's almost spring, and time for bright colors? Okay, done.

Or you could always keep it classic with regular pearls.

For a simple look, maybe you just want a few different chains hanging on.

This strand may be my favorite: an eclectic group of clear and silver beads.

So there you have it. A boutique style necklace, with lots and lots of options to make it work for you!

Thanks so much to Megan for having me over here today. I hope you'll come follow along at Sumo's Sweet Stuff!

Make it Monday #18

2012-02-12T17:59:00.012-07:00

Let your creativity shine!!! Thank YOU for all the FUN projects linked up last week! I shared several on the Brassy Apple FB page, twitter and pinned some too!

Last weeks most viewed link was Music Sheet Paper Roses from Robins Nest:

What will next week's be? I can't wait to see! until then show off what you've created lately!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

Valentines day with the Dating Divas!

2012-02-11T05:08:00.022-07:00

The Dating Divas LOVE February! It's like Christmas for them! They have collected some of the BEST ideas to make this Valentine's day memorable for you and the ones you love! Get the "pinning" finger ready!!!!

check out their GIFTS Round up...

(just a peek at some of the ones they have featured!)

And their DECOR Round up...

and of course FOOD! check out the yummies!

and for those that wait for the last minute - QUICK and EASY ideas (30 mins or less)

and the Divas have their awesome ebooks available for purchase too! Snatch up their great ideas for dating and being romantic!

Enjoy your weekend!

Zilick GIVEAWAY $100 gift card

2012-02-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Zilick? It's a new up and coming company and they want to connect with you!

Zilick is a website that promotes local businesses in Utah. They support small companies and give them the opportunities to sell products, feature their business, and do giveaways to promote what they sell or do. Their site also provides a first class way to sell classifieds safely and securely by creating user profiles for the buyer to see. But to keep it exciting Zilick does one BIG giveaway every week. All you have to do is register and leave comments on the posts. They continually feature tons of giveaways every month so keep going back and support local business.

Help spread the word about Zilick and you could win a $100 gift certificate to Nordstrom!

to enter:

1. Sign up for a free account at Zilick
2. Leave a comment on their site HERE for a chance to win the gift card

you can also find Zilick on Twitter

good luck!!!

DIY Chain bracelet from Somewhat Simple

2012-02-10T04:36:00.013-07:00

Hi everyone! I'm Stephanie from Somewhat Simple and I'm excited to be here today to share a {simple} bracelet idea.

The inspiration for today's idea came to me while browsing one of my favorite stores- Lowes! I was walking down an aisle that had shelves full of boxes and rolls of chains.

I grabbed the first person in a red vest I could find and asked him {very nicely} to cut 2 feet of this chain for me. From the 2 feet of chain (for only $1.40 a foot) I was able to get 3 bracelets. (The worker actually cut the 2 feet into 3 pieces for me so I didn't have to buy my own tools- yay!) I thought the chain I chose is perfect for a chunky bracelet, but still delicate and feminine.

I had an image in my mind of what I wanted to create with this chain, but when I got home, I actually just started playing around with some ribbon and different weaving methods to see which bracelet I liked best.

Here is just the basic method of weaving a ribbon in and out of the chain and tying a bow at the wrist. Simple.

This one I created simply by slipping ribbon loops up into each chain link. I really liked the way this looked, but I should warn you to keep this type of bracelet away from kids- it will hold up fine until someone pulls on the loops, then the entire thing comes undone. It's easy to fix, but just be careful.

The last method I tried was probably my favorite.

I took this fun trim and just wrapped in and over both sides of the chain. I left enough ribbon hanging from each side that I was able to tie a bow and slip it over my wrist! This one would be for more casual days, but using this same method, you can dress it up with fancier (or more plain) ribbon and embellish it with pearls or buttons for a fun kids bracelet. Or, to see more of the chain, use a skinnier ribbon. {Maybe even spray paint your chain before hand to make it extra matchy!)

I love how versatile this project can be.

Jewelry from the home improvement store, who would've thought? :)

Anthro Knockoff Necklace from Flamingo Toes

2012-02-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Brassy Apple Readers!

My name is Bev and I blog over at Flamingo Toes!

I am so excited to be here as part of this Bling It series!! I think Megan is just amazing (and you do too of course) so I was very excited when she asked me to be a part of the fun!

I am pretty addicted to Jewelry - especially DIY jewelry - and knockoff's especially. I love finding inspiration at overpriced boutiques and department stores and recreating something similar for a fraction of the cost! And that's just what I have for you today! An Anthropologie knockoff!

Here's my version of the Anthro Frozen Globes Necklace:

And here's the original - which sold for $42. (it's not available anymore)

The other thing I love about DIY jewelry is that you can make it they way YOU want. According to the reviews of the Anthro necklace - their "globes" were just a little smaller than a golf ball. And the chain was pretty long. I don't really want golf-ball size globes flopping around on my chest. Which sounds awkward when you type it out - but there it is. So mine are smaller.

Here's what you'll need to make your own necklace.
You can choose the size of the globes you want. Ahem.

• Metal tube beads
• Small silver beads
• Large beads for globes - these are about 1/2"
• Large Silver Rings - mine are 1"
• Beading cord
• crimp beads
• Jump Rings
• Head Pins
• Chain for bottom section - 7" long
• Lobster clasp
• Ribbon

(All my supplies came from Michael's except the Ribbon, which came from the Ribbon Retreat)

To start we're going to make the strands on the sides of the necklace. If you want to skip this step you could use a pretty chain instead.

Begin by cutting 4 lengths of Beading Cord - 12" long. With the first length of cording, loop one end through a jump ring. Feed both ends through a crimp bead.

Flatten the crimp bead with flat nosed pliers, close to the jump ring.

Begin threading the silver tubes and beads onto the cording. Slip the cording end into the beads also to hide it.

Alternate the tubes and beads until the strand measures about 8 1/2". Finish the other end of the cording with another crimp bead and jump ring.

Make another bead strand and attach it to the same set of jump rings.

Repeat these steps to make a second set of two strands.
Once you've done that, carefully open the jump ring on one end of each of the strands. Add your large silver ring and close the jump ring.

Add two jump rings to each end of your bottom chain. Add these jump rings to each silver ring.

Now we're going to do the beads.
Add a small silver bead and your "globe" bead to a head pin. This is just a straight wire with a flat end.

Bend the wire slightly to the left, just above the bead. Hold the wire just a little above the bead with round-nosed pliers.
Wrap the end of the wire around one side of the pliers and cross it over on top of the bead. This will make a loop.

Clip the end of the wire off with wire cutters, at the point that it crosses over the back wire.

Once you clip the wire, make sure the cut end touches the wire to form a closed loop.

Add a jump ring to the loop. Then add the bead to the large bottom chain on the necklace. Continue with your other beads until they are all attached to the chain.

Add a lobster closure to the top rings of the two necklace strands.

Cut a length of ribbon and tie it to the necklace strands just above one of the large silver rings. You can make it as large or small as you like.
I love that you can easily change out the ribbon too if you want to coordinate with different outfits.

And that's it! You have a pretty new Anthro Knockoff to wear!

I hope you like it!! I'd love for you to stop by Flamingo Toes and say hi - you can check out my other tutorials here.

Thanks for having me over Megan!!

DIY Silver Chain Earrings with My Girlish Whims

2012-02-08T03:42:00.001-07:00

Hi there!

My name is Rebecca and I blog over at My Girlish Whims

My blog is all about beading, crafting, and general life as a girl!

I'm so excited to be taking part in the jewelry making series because jewelry making is my FAVORITE craft to do. I'm actually doing my own series of jewelry making lessons over on my blog right now! Check out my jewelry making lessons to learn about some of the basics!

Today I will be showing you all how to make a pair of silver chain earrings!

Supplies:

Chain, earring hooks, two link beads, two small jump rings, needle nose pliers and wire cutters.

Steps:

Step 1: Cut a piece of chain around 2 inches long using wire cutters

Step 2: Cut a matching length of chain. An easy way to make sure your chain is the same length is to string the chain onto a piece of wire and then cut a matching piece.

Step 3: Cut around 6 or 7 more pieces of wire in varying lengths (do this for each earring).

Step 4: Open up a small jump ring and carefully string all the pieces of wire onto it.

Step 5: Add the link bead onto the jump ring and use needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.

Step 6: Open up the other side of the link bead using the needle nose pliers again.

Step 7: Add on the earring wire, and then close the link up using the pliers.

Make your matching earring, and then you are done!

These earrings almost remind me of tassels. So fun!

I'd love for you to stop over to my blog and say hi! Thanks for having me here Meg!

Pleated Cuffs from Every Creative Endeavor

2012-02-07T03:02:00.004-07:00

Hi! My name is Amanda and I am the creative mind behind Every Creative Endeavor. I am a stay at home mom who loves to create awesome DIY projects for my home and my kids. I love a fun can of spray paint, a beautiful piece of fabric, an awesome power tool or a yummy recipe! I am so excited to be here today sharing my “BLING” tutorial with all of you! I just love Megan and her awesome blog! Today we are going to talk about Pleats!!

I love pleats and cuffs so why not combine them together and make a pleated cuff??!!

First, lets grab some fabric and tear off a piece – mine are two inches wide. I tore each side so they would be frayed on both sides. I wanted them to look a little bit rougher.

Then I got to work folding down my fabric and making the pleats. Since I wanted mine a bit rougher I didn’t measure and just {eyed} it but if you want yours exact, just lay a ruler down next to your fabric to help you – then I sewed a straight line down each side – I backward stitched on each end on both sides.

Using my Snap tool that I bought at hobby lobby – I attached snaps to the ends. Make sure you measure first and fold your fabric over to the size that you need to fit around your wrist. If you need a tutorial to attach snaps – check it out here!

After you have your snaps in place you are finished with the cuff! But I thought that mine solid colors were pretty plain and wanted something to {pretty} them up a bit –

- so I headed to my scrapbooking supplies and found some really cute fabric flowers and used those. They are sticky on the backside so they stuck right to my fabric – but I added a little bit of fabric tac to make sure they stay -

I la la la love the fun little fabric flowers and the “umph” they add to the cuffs. I really love the orange, brown, green, yellow and blue one I added to the yellow – it is just so fun, happy and bright! But the green one is darling too – ohhh – it is so hard to decide!!

So run to your fabric stash and find the most fun fabric you have and whip up a bunch of these – you will love them!!

And – I made a few more but instead of using snaps – I used velcro and stitched the velcro onto each side and they work just as well so if you don’t have the snap tool or snaps – don’t be discouraged, just use velcro! I also think it would be cute to do a fun fabric and then add a darling button! There are so many cute possibilities!!

Have fun with your creative endeavors and I would love if you would stop by and visit me and see all the fun we are having over at my {blog!} I also have a really fun contest called Creative Bloggers Got Talent and I would love for you to join up – or come and vote for your favorite projects!

Thanks again for having me today and I hope you have a wonderful week!!

Winner- Molly O Designs giveaway

2012-02-06T21:19:00.000-07:00

The winners of the Wrap Bracelet Kits giveaway from Molly O Designs are:

Kassi from Truly Lovely

and

Christy Bishop

congrats! thanks to all who entered to to Molly O Designs for the generous giveaway!

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up tomorrow - another DIY accessory tutorial

Make it Monday #17

2012-02-05T17:59:00.002-07:00

I love Monday's because of YOU! Time to link up and share your creativity! And as always, I'll be picking some out and sharing them with my Brassy Apple Facebook and Twitter Followers!

Last week's most viewed link was the Ruffle Skirt from Suburbs Mama

and thanks to everyone for linking up! Had the most link ups yet!

Now - Let's get linkin'!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

A little weekend miscellaneous...

2012-02-05T08:48:00.001-07:00

Just a little weekend misc. For all those emails, comments and questions I get about my hair style I have started a Facebook album where I will upload and share the photos all in one place. So many of you ask for different angles to print out take to your stylist. I am flattered - thank you. I hope this album will make it easier for you to find the photos and of course I will be adding more as the days go on!

The winner of the free blog conference ticket giveaway to Story @ Home is -

The Hulbert Family

Congrats!!!!

and don't forget that the Make it Monday link up party will go live at 6pm tonight (mst) and you can also look forward to a week of more DIY accessory tutorials from some talented bloggers!!!

See you then! I can't wait to see what you've been creating this week!

DIY Wrap bracelet from Molly O Designs

2012-02-03T03:24:00.006-07:00

Today's tutorial comes from Molly of Molly O Designs :

I made a pact with myself many years ago that I would make the effort to look like a chic and

trendy mom each and every day. And although I do try, there are days that are a deﬁnite miss (a

VERY scary miss!). But, it always amazes me how just a simple accessory can transform your

look and attitude from frumpy to fabulous.

This bracelet is my go-to accessory right now. I wear just one or stack several of my favorite

colors. Just add them to jeans and a simple tshirt. Simple, chic and on trend!

They are SO easy to make and I promise I will hold your hand through every step. The best part

about this bracelet is the cost! The original wrap bracelet retails for almost $200 in department

stores! Now, I want to feel fabulous but this mama is not wrapping that much money around my

wrist unless diamonds are involved!

I love to give these as gifts to my friends, babysitters, teachers, etc. The list goes on. If you have

a tween/teen in your house, let them watch the video and whip out a pile of these beauties. A

modern twist on the friendship bracelet!

We will talk about the supplies you will need in the video and take you step by step through

creating a wrap bracelet. Just click on the photo below to begin watching the video!

All the supplies you will need are on our site as well as our Wrap Bracelet Kits that have been created so you don’t have to worry about

what colors will work together.

GIVEAWAY!!!! (**now closed**)

As a special thanks to Megan for allow me to guest on her blog today, I am giving away {2} Wrap Bracelet Kits from our site! To enter:
1. just popover to Facebook and “Like” our page,
2. browse our website and then come back and let us know what

items or class is on your “must have” list.
Leave a comment and you will be entered to win a kit.

But only if you promise to share your pictures of your fabulous new bracelet!

And while you are at it, tell all your friends to get over here and check out the Brassy Apple

blog! There are going to be some amazing tutorials this month and you don’t want to miss any of

them!

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Thanks Molly for sharing you talent and offering a giveaway too! - Megan

DIY Cameo from Material Girls Quilts

2012-02-02T03:28:00.003-07:00

Hi,

I am Nadine from the Material Girls Quilts. I am so excited and a little in awe that I am doing a post for Brassy Apple. I have been a blog stalker of hers for sometime.

A little about me, I own a quilt shop in South Jordan Utah, and yes, I do have the greatest job in the world. I love anything crafty, spray painty, glue gunnish, thrift stores!! However, my first love is fabric. I have 2 kids, one girl Shelby age 20 who works in the shop with me, and Parker age 18, who swears when he gets married that she won't even own a glue gun (not if I have any say) and one fantastic, supportive hubby! When I saw that Megan was looking for contributors for jewelry I knew exactly what I wanted to post. I am sure most of you have seen all the resin flowers, and what not floating around blogland. If not, I am going to show you! I bought my molds for the cameo, (which I might add I am in love with cameos right now) and flowers (lots of flowers) off of Etsy. I bought the resin from the actual company. So, Lets get started.....,

There are a lot of different resins on the market

I bought my molds off of Etsy, there again there are a ton to chose from

Fill the mold right to the top of the design, with the mixture of resin and the dye.

The resin takes about 5 minutes or so to harden.

Once it hardens it will pop right out of the mold

I added my cameo to a jewelry blank, I prefer a pin but didn't have the right size. I glued it in and then on to a circle of wool felt.

I then cut two 3 inch strips of a linen like fabric called Prairie Cloth.

I chose to do a wrapped flower, you could do whatever you like. Tie a knot in the end of your strip and twist and wrap it around the knot gluing it as you go. I use a fast drying fabric glue called Fabri-Tac. I wrapped it until I had a flower about 2 inches in diameter.

I then glued it where I wanted it, this is where it is nice to have the felt circle to adhere it to.

For the second wrapped flower, I decided to add a little color, so as I was wrapping it I wrapped a piece of embroidery thread, you could use ribbon, rick rack or any type of bling you want. If you didn't use a pin blank, you will have to add a pin, you can use a safety pin, just make sure to glue it well.

This is where you can let your personality shine girls! I added, pearls, and a little brass button, with a chiffon wrapped flower. Be creative here!

Walah!! Add it to your favorite sweater, headband and get your SWAG on!!

Thanks so much,
Nadine!
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Stop by and check out Nadine's shop and blog - The Material Girls Quilts! They have an amazing selection! Thanks for guesting today!

DIY fashion accessories - from watch to bracelet

2012-02-01T03:18:00.001-07:00

February 1st kicks off a month long series of DIY accessory tutorials! I am so excited to have several guests sharing their DIY ideas with you here on my blog! Each day you will get a new tutorial from a new guest!

I hope you enjoy all the ideas that will be shared, pin a few (or a lot) and of course - create something new to accessorize with!

I am sharing an idea today. A DIY bracelet that was once a watch! I thrifted this bracelet/watch and also the metal medallion piece (.50 cents total!)

The watch didn't work and I never watch anyway but I liked the beaded strap. The metal medallion fit perfectly over the watch face and I knew I had chunky bracelet in the works!

I picked some fabric and traced around the medallion with a fabric marker. Then I cut it out.

I applied the fabric to the medallion with some Mod Podge and let it dry.

Then to add a shiny coat I applied a layer of Diamond Glaze and let it dry. It gives it a "professional" look.

Using some good, strong, craft glue I apply the medallion to the watch face and again - let it dry!

And it's done! Really easy and inexpensive too but original! I'll be linking up HERE to share my idea!

See you back here tomorrow for DIY accessory tutorial from a guest blogger!

Angry Bird Valentine

2012-01-31T10:59:00.054-07:00

If you've got a child who doesn't want any hearts or "lovey" Valentine's to give out AND they love Angry birds - these are for you!

Disguise a sucker into a plump angry bird!

Supplies:
Card stock - red, yellow, black, white, orange
Print out the pattern template for the pieces
Print out tags with saying (the tags says - I get "angry" at the lovey dovey Valentines. They are for the "birds!")
scissors / exacto knife
glue stick/hot glue gun
Sharpie
Tootsie Roll suckers

Step 1: Using the template cut out the pieces necessary for your bird. It's easiest to cut out the smaller pieces but breaking out those elementary school skills by folding a paper in half and cutting a heart or a circle, etc and using the template as a guide for the right size.

Step 2: Place and glue the white belly on each bird. For the red bird place the beak and eyes. For the yellow bird place the eyes right on top of the belly.

Step 3: Add the eyebrows. For the red bird - cut the top off a heart at an angle. For the yellow, add the red straight eyebrows and the beak. Cut an orange heart down the center and place according to the picture.

Step 4: Add the head and tail feathers on both birds. Make a few dots with a sharpie marker for the eyes.

Step 5: Punch a hole or cut an "X" or a cross for the sucker stick to thread through.

Wrap the card stock around the back of the sucker and add a dot of hot glue to secure it together.

Add a tag and some hot glue as well to secure it to the sucker stick.

And you are done! I'll be linking up and sharing HERE!

UP movie Valentine

2012-01-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

supplies:

Boxed Candy hearts

White Card stock

UP house printable

Hot glue gun

2 helium filled balloons

Paper with printed saying

scissors

Step 1: Print the UP house printable on white card stock. Cut out along the roof line straight down the sides to the other house and along the roof line of the other.

Step 2: Take photos of your child or you pretending to hold a rope like you were floating away. Print and cut out around the body.

Step 3: Take a candy box and the cut out UP house piece. Wrap the box with the house.

Take your hot air balloons and place them behind the chimney. You can split up the balloons on each side or group them all together. Glue the strings into place using the glue gun and then attach the house to the candy box with the hot glue. Cut away the excess string from the balloons.

Step 4: Print out a saying on regular paper and cut a cloud shape around it.

Sayings could include:

Valentine, you make me soar "UP" above the clouds!

for a teacher - Thanks for taking my education "UP" to another level!

Thanks for being someone I can look "UP" to!

attach the cloud to the string of the balloon with a bit of hot glue

attach the cut out photo as well below the cloud

I'll be linking up here!

Conference Ticket GIVEAWAY!!!!

2012-01-30T10:46:00.001-07:00

I just recently found out about a Conference here in Utah - Story @ Home. It focuses on storytelling and aren't we always telling stories? Stories of our lives, our past and our current projects - hello the world of blogging and scrapbooking!

The Conference has 3 tracks:

Blogging your passion and telling your story
Family History - from newbies to beyond
Storytelling - the magic of it, through photos and more

Plus it's chock FULL of amazing presenters like Rachel Herrscher (co founder of EVO and Today's Mama), Tauni Everret and C. Jane Kendrick and many more!

I have one full conference pass to giveaway to 1 lucky reader!!!

The conference is March 9-10, 2012 on Temple Square in Salt Lake City

to enter:

1. LIKE the Story @ Home Facebook Page

2. Tweet about it

leave a seperate comment for each here on my blog to increase you chances of winning!

Good luck!

BUT

* Don't wait to see if you've won before purchasing your conference pass! Seating is limited and the conference may sell out before a winner is announced. If you purchase a ticket and then win, you will be issued a refund for your ticket price.

* Also, Story@Home is offering a Sweetheart Special. Everyone who registers by February 14th will be entered into a drawing. The winner will receive 2 tickets (one refund for her and a ticket for someone she loves).

(The value of the pass is $79.00 for the whole weekend. It does not include meals but there will be discounts and coupons given to some of the local restaurants. The Plaza Hotel is also offering a special rate of $79.00 a night for those that need to travel.)

Make it Monday #16

2012-01-29T17:59:00.004-07:00

It's just another Manic Monday - OoooOOOO... Ha ha! Now you'll be singing that song!

It's time to link up and share your Creativity!

Last week we had a record number of links - YEAH - Thank YOU!
(secretly wondering if we will break the number from last week)

The most viewed project from last week was Simple Valentine Art from It's Overflowing

Now it's your turn!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

Swing back by on Tuesday. I have a ticket to giveaway to a blog conference!!!!

Home decor - Fabric wall art

2012-01-26T07:18:00.029-07:00

Needing to dress up your walls but don't want something permanent? or do you want something completely different that your neighbors and guests will notice and comment on when they stop by?

Well - maybe my fabric wall art tutorial is what you are looking for!

Take a look at what my little sister did in her house using a similar technique.

I have to start with this enormous one in the dining room!

Besides lovin' the dining room this birdie at the end of the hallway just make me smile! I love the modern "trees" and the colors.

A living room wall gets a pop of color and design!

And she's even added some fun in the bathroom!
(psst! she used my medallion pattern you can get here)

I always love to see how you create something from my tutorials! Please post and share photos on my Facebook wall, if you blog about it - send me the link, or email me!

What I wore Wednesday - faux fur

2012-01-25T03:18:00.038-07:00

I haven't participated in What I Wore Wednesday in a long time! And since I have been getting some questions from you - my readers - on Facebook about what I wear and accessorizing, I thought I'd jump back in and share.

I have also been challenging myself to wear what's in my closet! I know that sounds funny but I do have some tops that I just ADORE but don't really wear. SO - I have been going through my closet and trying NOT duplicate some of my comfy, easy to wear tops that I might pull out to wear more often.

Here's an easy outfit I wore this week.
Skinny jeans
White long sleeved Tee (everyone's got one of these!)

and how to take it to the next level? I layered it with a faux fur vest and some brown boots. Perfect for the snowy January here in Utah!

And of course accessories! I paired it with some gold dangle earrings, a brown necklace worn long and my metallic leather cuff. Easy and comfortable but it looks pulled together (well to me anyway) wink....

Valentine - Got my EYE on you

2012-01-23T21:45:00.001-07:00

Here's a quick easy Valentine that will surprise who ever receives it!

Valentine, I've got my eye on you!

And this one is so easy I'd thought I'd show you how to make it via a video tutorial. Enjoy!

If you give it a try - please share a photo on the Brassy apple Facebook wall or send me a link to your blog post about it!

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I will be linking up here

Make it Monday #15

2012-01-22T17:59:00.012-07:00

Time to share your creativity with Make it Monday!

Last week's most viewed link was from Uncommon Designs:

Hop over there and see what she did with some Christmas clearance!

YOUR TURN!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog somewhere or post

Winner - 6 scarves gvieaway!

2012-01-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the entries and blog followers! The winner of the 6 scarves giveaway as a Thank YOU for to all my blog followers is:

WHITNEY of Sew Much 2 Create

Congrats!

Don't forget you can link up and share your creativity later today starting at 6pm (MST) for Make IT Monday!

Star Wars Valentine

2012-01-19T21:56:00.004-07:00

I wanted to create some Valentine's that weren't all about love for my little guy (or little girl) to hand out and something that fit his personality too! Plus as a mom I am sort of giddy that it's not a candy treat he is handing out!

Here's how you can be the hero of the galaxy too!

Supplies:

Print off the ready made cards HERE on card stock

scissors or a paper cutter

clear tape

glow sticks

Step 1: Print off the cards and cut them apart. Each page comes with 2 (the original had 3 but it went all wonky so when I tapered it down it 2 it seems to come out fine).

Step 2: Make a slit in the cardstock right at the top of the lightsaber - about 1/2" - 3/4" long. Wide enough for the glow stick to be able to slip through. I used my paper cutter to make the slit but you could use an exacto knife or other cutting device too.

Step 3: Slip the glow stick into the hole - be careful not to pop/activate the stick! Then place the bracelet attachment on the end in the back and secure into place with a bit of tape!

Have your little cutie fill in their name and they are ready to hand out!

If you give this a try - let me know!

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I'll be linking up here!

Mustache Valentine

2012-01-18T22:08:00.000-07:00

Valentines are really fun to make and get creative with! Here's an idea we did last year. They were fun to mail out to Grandma's and Grandpa's.

A simple photo with some mustaches and a little tape to keep them in place. Then a quick edit session in photoshop, picnik or whatever you like to use! I like to use the 1 hour service to print out my photos for cheap too!

These Valentines are sure to get a laugh and to be remembered!

~ more Valentines ideas coming over the next several days! Don't miss them! ~

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I will be linking up here and sharing my idea!

Blogging Tips - start, grow & build your blog

2012-01-18T03:18:00.041-07:00

Now that we are a few weeks into the New Year - how are those resolutions going? Do you still have some you haven't gotten to yet? or maybe some you aren't sure how to go about them.

If one of those things is starting a blog or building/growing your blog, I found these helpful articles on this subject and thought I'd share! Oh those things you wish you knew when you started! They are worth the read!

A great how to for the beginner from The Blog Guidebook

A helpful overview to grow from where you are from Creative Kristi

Insight and wisdom from someone who knows - See what The Inspired Room learned about blogging from 2011.

One of my favorites - Blogging predictions from Mom Blog Magazine

And we CAN'T forget about social media - it's a HUGE part of blogging and business now!
The Nester shares some GREAT advice on how to harness the power of Pinterest

and if you are still trying to figure out Pinterest, Lasso the Moon shares some tips!

I hope you find these helpful!

My Word for the year...

2012-01-17T03:18:00.002-07:00

A little over a week ago I took on the challenge from Lara of Less Cake More Frosting of picking a word for the year and got to share it with her readers.

If you didn't catch it on her blog, I wanted to share it with you today!

After milling over what my WORD would be, it struck me one day and then just wouldn't go away!

My word for 2012 is ADVENTURE

There are always the BIG moments to look forward to in life but what about the everyday or the small, quiet moments? I think the mundane everyday can be turned into or viewed as an adventure!

I love this quote:

"In all living have much fun and laughter. Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured." - Gordon B. Hinckley

So for 2012 I am living an adventurous life! I am going to see more in my everyday. I am going to plan and carry out more of those items on the "someday" list. I am going to go for it!

I took a small journal and created my 2012 Adventure Bucket list! It's been filled with favorite adventure quotes and pictures that I have collected on Pinterest. Plus some favorite song lyrics that motivate me to continue to pursue the adventure items on my bucket list.

It's small enough to fit into my purse as a constant reminder and it still has room to journal about the adventures that come my way this year that aren't even on my list.

As they say in the movie UP -

Do you have a word that you are going to center your year around? Please share it with me! And if you haven't picked one yet - it's not to late!

Make it Monday #14

2012-01-15T17:59:00.017-07:00

It's time to share your creativity and LINK up!

This week I want to celebrate with a giveaway as a way of saying THANKS for all my blog followers!

I will be sending 1 lucky winner 6 scarves! they will take you through the year from now to next Christmas!

Or keep some for yourself and make someone's day but giving them one!

ENTER the giveaway!

1st entry - must be a follower of my BLOG - leave a comment

2nd entry - Link up a project - leave a comment that you did!

3rd entry - LIKE the Brassy Apple Facebook page - leave a comment that you LIKE my page!

Thanks again for all the follows! Now - let's see your projects!

last weeks most viewed project was this Winter Wreath!

Coming in February - BLING IT!

2012-01-13T03:18:00.038-07:00

Coming in February - Beads, bling, baubles and more! 16 bloggers will be sharing their DIY jewelry ideas here with you!

You can look forward to seeing what these ladies create:

Material Girls Quilts

Molly O Designs

Every Creative Endeavor

Brittany Golden Studio

Little Cherry Blossoms

and ME too!

God Bless Harry Potter

2012-01-12T04:43:00.099-07:00

There are lots of twists, turns and secrets within the pages of the Harry Potter series. But there is one secret that my copy of Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix kept that I didn't know about for 8 years...

It's got a story to tell....a tale of 2 rings (and no there are no hobbits involved!), 3 USA states, 3 moves and a happy ending. So pull up a chair...

8 years ago I was about 5 1/2 months pregnant and during the Christmas break we took a family trip to Wyoming. There was a crazy storm and I remember the snowfall amount being incredible! There were times we had to go so slowly because we couldn't see and it was piling on the roads quickly.

After enjoying visiting my husbands family for a few days we started the trip by home. It was long (especially when you have to sit that long while pregnant). I remember my wedding ring "slipping" around on my finger on the car ride. During the winter my wedding ring was always more loose. I remember taking it off once just so I wouldn't keep bumping the setting, etc as the diamond kept falling to the underside of my finger.

We made several stops along the way, in and out of the car and even had an overnight stay before we finished the rest of the trip. When we arrived home and started to unpack I realized that I didn't know where my wedding ring was! I did have a flash of a memory of taking it off in the car but I started to think about how many times I had gotten in and out of the car, our overnight stay, etc. and I all could think of was it in the a snowbank in a parking lot somewhere between Wyoming and home. My husband was crushed! There was so much sentimental value associated with my wedding ring for him that he also a bit upset with me too.

Weeks went by, then months...then years! After the 1st year passed I knew for sure we weren't going to find it. After a few years of wearing different rings on my ring finger my husband reluctantly surprised me with a new wedding ring one night at dinner! I certainly didn't feel like I deserved it and I was TERRIFIED I would loose this new ring!

Fast forward 3 years from when I got the new ring. We are now living in an entirely new state and have built and moved 3 different times since the beginning of the story (8 years ago). My son, now 7 keeps bringing home Harry Potter books from the school library. I tell him, "We have these books. Why don't you just read ours?" And for my sake, then we don't have to keep track of the library book and return it.
"Ok" he says. "Where are they?"
"Packed away somewhere. Remind me later and we will look for them" I reply.

Well, that didn't happen. Months went by with the same question and answer going between us. Finally, one day a few months back he asked about them again and THIS time I said, "Let's go look for those boxes right now."

Sadly, it took all of 3 minutes to locate the box. There were a few stacked in there and I just grabbed the 5th year book, handed it to his excited little hands and off he ran. A very few short minutes later when I was back working on the computer he came up to me and was saying something about a ring he found in the book. I was typing away and I was thinking, "Is there a ring in that story and maybe there was a trinket in the book that I just never realized was there?". He said it again and I pulled my concentration away from the computer screen to take in what he was saying.

There he stood holding my wedding ring! The one I had lost 8 years prior. The one I thought I would NEVER see again. The one I thought I would only have photos of from our wedding day to show our children my "first" wedding ring.

I grabbed him an embrace and told him he was the HERO of the day! He had found my long lost wedding ring! Knowing how much this would mean to my husband I told him to run downstairs to Dad's office and show him.

I couldn't believe it! Once he was done showing my husband I had him retell me HOW and WHERE he had found it.

Turns out it was wedged between the last couple of pages and the back cover of the book.

I do not remember placing it there - ever! But maybe I did. I was reading this book on the trip we took. It was in the car with me. It was near my purse and all the stuff you surround yourself with when you travel - especially with kids!

I must have finished it on that trip and then back on the shelf if went. Then eventually it just went into a box of book that we wanted to keep but just weren't putting out on the bookshelves. You can even see all the indentations it made throughout the years of being shifted around.

Needless to say, my husband is relieved and over the moon excited. I think he finally let go of any lingering negative or sad feelings towards the whole wedding ring situation. One of his first questions to me was, "Do you still like it? Is it even your style?" I bust out laughing that that was the first thing he thought of!

So now the story of my wedding ring - how he proposed, how it was lost and how it was found again is an even better story! One that will forever be remembered.
Of course the word went out quickly via text to my family who knew well about my lost wedding ring and the replacement I received years later. I joked with them saying, "God bless Harry Potter!"

(photo taken by CTR image photography)

Winter decor - dining room centerpiece

2012-01-10T22:07:00.002-07:00

Last week I shared some of my winter decor in my dining room and my SUGAR tip! Be sure to check out that if you missed it. I couldn't finish off the dining room without a centerpiece for the table.

I took this "basket" which normally I use in the Fall but haven't for a about a year or two. It's just been sitting with my other decor stored away. As the new year turned over it was use it or donate it! SO - this FALL item got a winter makeover!

I gave it a light coating of white with some spray paint and let it dry. Then working in sections I sprayed small portions of the sides with a spray adhesive and while it was wet and tacky I sprinkled a mixture of Epsom salt with a bit of iridescent glitter in it.

This created a look of winter branches with a frosty/icy feel. Perfect for what I had already going on in the dining room!

I put a tall candle vase in the middle, filled the base with sugar and placed a tall white candle in the center. It's perfect! I love the crisp white feel it brings to the space after the reds/greens/golds, etc of Christmas. Plus you can never go wrong with candle light!

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I'll be sharing and linking up at these PARTIES!

One word with Less Cake More Frosting

2012-01-10T05:34:00.017-07:00

Lara from Less Cake More Frosting is running a great series this month called One Word.

Several bloggers from all over are picking 1 word to build their year around and sharing it! I was asked to share mine and you can find out what that is if you hop over to her site today!

Here's me and Lara being silly at a bloggers meet up! Love that girl. She's one of those people that is really fun to be around and keeps you laughing! and LOVE her sense of style too!

so head on over - tell her I sent ya - check out my word and see what other words have been chosen too!

Make it Monday #13

2012-01-08T17:59:00.018-07:00

Time to link up and show off what you've been creating! DIY tutorials for home decor, sewing, re-fashioning, upcycling, parties, recipes, family games and MORE!

The most viewed link from last week was from A Pumpkin and a Princess

I hope "MAKE it MONDAY" helps you discover projects to pin, create and maybe find some creative new blogs in the process!

LINK UP!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog or post

Let's see it! I love to further promote some of the projects and share them on the Brassy Apple Facebook Page

New Project

2012-01-07T10:43:00.001-07:00

Thursday morning my usual busy schedule got completely turned upside down and I became very familiar, very quickly with a new speed of busy :)

I was asked to take on a school musical project and had 24 hours to put it all together - lines, songs, production, etc. Well it wasn't just going to be any production - I just can't think that way! LOL and luckily I knew I had a great friend and partner in crime to pull this off!

So for the last 2 days I've been consumed in listening to music, choreographing, mapping out lines, casting parts, getting music cut....and on and on and on.

Don't get me wrong - it's GREAT! I get to work with the elementary school kids and be a part of this chance for them to SHINE, develop their acting, singing and dancing skills and I just get to ride this adventure with them!

BUT - if you ever think, "I don't have time for something like that"....believe me - you do! Because me and the other Moms involved don't really have "time" for all this fun either but you just make it happen. It's for the kids. And yes it's a lot of work, time, late nights and running so much you don't have time to eat. BUT - it's worth it! It really is.....Never thought I'd have this big project thrown in my lap a few days into the New Year but it's an adventure I am happy to take! looking forward to the ride....

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psst! I'll still be blogging my crafty projects, tutorials, ideas, etc! no worries there! Just going to strap on my super woman cape and make it all happen for the next 3 months! :) I've got some really fun Valentine's ideas to share so look forward to those in the next coming weeks!

Winter decor & my SUGAR tip!

2012-01-05T03:26:00.058-07:00

Christmas comes down at my house the day after Christmas because I get excited to decorate for Winter. We go straight from Fall and Thanksgiving decor to Christmas. So January through March-ish I like to decorate for Winter. You can see how my living room was decorated for Winter last year HERE.

This year I thought I'd share some of my winter touches to my dining room. I love to decorate with whites, creams, silver, black and some natural elements for my winter decor (as you can see from my winter living room). So it's no surprise to see those same colors and feel in my dining room. Here's how I decorated the buffet.

One fun tip I have learned from the ladies in my neighborhood is that SUGAR makes a GREAT filler! It's inexpensive, it has a shimmer to it and it's white which goes with...well....everything!

I love to have a variety of clear containers for all sorts of occasions. For Winter, I have filled the bottoms of these 2 vases with sugar and added some sticks and branches to them (that natural element I love!).

(yes that is a saw and yes that I did cut the branches over my dining room table)

To this vase I added some decor balls...

I love that it sort of looks like snow.

I added some candles and these clear bubbles that sort of look like ice.

EASY ways to change up your decor this winter and make an impact in a small area!

How do you decorate for winter? If you try any of these tips, let me know! I love to see your spin on my ideas!

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I'll be linking up and sharing HERE

Social Media - Let's get together!

2012-01-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

Let's get together - yeah, yeah, yeah....Is anyone else singing that song from Parent trap like I am? (LOL...now it will probably be stuck in your head all day!)

So - let's get together! You can find me on

Facebook

Click on the icon and give my page a LIKE!

Pinterest

We all have a "pinning" addiction right? Why not follow me and give me more things to pin and LOVE! I'd love to follow you back!

and Twitter!

Tweet! Tweet! It's fun to have real time chats with you!

Christmas Jar - tradition for the new year

2012-01-04T03:18:00.051-07:00

I know what you are thinking - "What? Why is she posting about Christmas in January!"...Well, let me tell you.

A few years ago the Christmas Jars book was recommended to me for some "Christmas" reading. They said I would want to start a Christmas Jar of my own after reading it. They were right! It's one of those books that makes you want move forward with action. So why not? I didn't have ask myself twice - we started one!

If you haven't read the book, it's a quick, easy, enjoyable read. They even have some versions out there that are kid friendly as well. Basically, you take any jar and save your extra change through out the year. Then you give the jar away on Christmas Eve to someone who needs it. And doing it in secret is always fun too!

It's something that gives my family the opportunity to be thinking about others the entire year and who we might gift the jar to when the year comes to an end. It's also fun to see how fast the jar fills up. THIS year, I got our family this fun jars that counts and keep track of how much is in your jar. That is REALLY exciting for my kids!

My point in sharing this is, it's not to late to read the story and start a jar of your own. It's only January 4th and I think our first year we started our jar in November right after I had read the book! It's a great family tradition! You'd be surprised how much "extra" change you have throughout the year!

Looking back...TOP 10 projects from 2011

2012-01-02T03:45:00.056-07:00

Well this is sort of funny....Most of the top projects that had the most views according to google analytics from 2011 weren't even from THAT year! LOL....I have a sneaky suspicion that has something to do with Pinterest.

SO - my I searched through the list and found projects from the year that had the most views. Here's the most popular - do you agree or disagree...??

Sweater Pillows

Rolled book pages Wreath

Holiday Neighbor Gifts

Burlap Rosette Bracelet

Angry Birds

Stenciled Pencil Skirt

2011 was a fun year of creativity! Looking forward to another great year to come!

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I'll be linking up here!

Make it Monday #12

2012-01-01T17:59:00.008-07:00

New Year, new start and a new NAME!!!

What was once the "mom it monday" link up party has been changed to "MAKE it MOnDAY!"

It's your chance to link up and show off what you've been creating! DIY tutorials for home decor, sewing, re-fashioning, upcycling, parties, recipes, family games and MORE!

I hope "MAKE it MONDAY" becomes a fun resource for you to get inspired, pin some fun projects and find some creative new blogs in the process!

LINK UP!

1. share a direct link to your tutorial

2. no shops or selling please

3. include a MAKE it MONDAY logo button or link on your blog or post

Let's see it! I love to further promote some of the projects and share them on the Brassy Apple Facebook Page

Family Memory Packets - recording the year...& looking forward

2011-12-30T03:37:00.055-07:00

This is an idea I have shared before but this year I have created the pages to simply print and fill in!

Family Memory Packets

Free printable sheets HERE

Fill out page 1 and also include a recent snapshot and/or trace their hands. Even the adults! :) It's fun to see how their hands change from year to year.

Page 2 and 3 are self explanatory. If your kids are too little to write simple write down their response.

Here's another great idea we will be adding to our packets this year! The How Does She blog shared a great idea - Yearly Video Interview! I love the idea of combining the video with the handwritten on paper journal type together! and capturing them doing their favorite thing - CUTE! I'll just have to make sure and create the DVD and slip it into the packet so all the "pieces" are together.

If you are looking ahead at the memories you will make in 2012, this Time Capsule jar is darling! You drop in movie ticket stubs, photos, etc all year long!

AND if you are planning a fun family vacation or large purchase, a great way to get the family involved in the saving process a VISUAL way is this shadow box bank idea!

You could also easily put the visual photo into a jar instead of the shadow box!

I hope you found some good ideas for capturing this past year and looking forward to the next!

Don't forget to check out all of the New Years ideas I shared this week!

Fortune Cookies

2011-12-29T03:37:00.015-07:00

Who doesn't love a little good luck or fortune for the New Year!

These are great for the surprise bags! they could be the activity if you wanted to make them all together and exchange fortunes or have them ready made!

There are 3 fun ways to make these cute fortune cookies:

Cupcake liner style - think of all the cute patterned cupcake liners available!

My fabric fortune cookies

or Martha's felt fortune cookies

New Years Eve shakers!!!

2011-12-28T04:23:00.025-07:00

It's day 3 of New Years eve fun! Be sure to check out day 1 and 2 for some fun ideas!

A fun way to celebrate New Years Eve and also have a crafting activity is to create your own shakers! These can be done is sooo many different ways. Gather up some empty water bottles or some disposable cups or any container and we'll upcycle it into a fun shaker that each member of your family can personalize just for them!

supplies:

container - cups, water bottles, canisters, etc

hot glue gun

rice, beans, popcorn kernels

ribbons

stickers

colorful papers, crepe paper, garland, bells, paint, etc
markers

For this tutorial I am going to use small plastic disposable cups.

step 1: Fill one of the cups with rice, beans or popcorn kernels about 1/4 full. This is the stuff inside the shaker that will be making the noise.

step 2: Using your hot glue gun, run a line of glue around the top edge and place the other cup on top to seal shut. If you want to make extra sure it doesn't come apart, run another line of glue around the seam and place some ribbon or ric rac over the glue so it won't show.

step 3: DECORATE! - adorn the outside of your shaker with stickers, papers, paint a design, etc. It's up to you! I like to add long streamers to the ends to make it more fun and colorful when they are being shaken!

If you are using an empty water bottle or canister simply fill it with some rice, beans or popcorn kernels and seal shut with the hot glue. Then decorate the outside to your hearts content!

Enjoy shaking these babies as you and your family ring in the New Year!!!

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I will be linking up here

Group game - Let's make a DEAL!

2011-12-27T03:45:00.003-07:00

This is a great game to play with a group! and would make a perfect activity for Surprise bags!

I've played with with my daughter's 5th grade class and also at a family gathering. For New Years Eve it's a wonderful way to re-gift something you got for Christmas that wasn't quite your style (tee he hee) or clean out the clutter and giveaway something you don't need!

Let's Make a DEAL!!

Just like the game show you have 3 "doors" of hidden prizes. Whether you supply the gifts or are doing it white elephant style fill each box with a prize without the "player" being able to see.

For the "doors" I took 3 shipping boxes and pushed the top flaps flat against each side so the top of the box was completely open. I covered them in wrapping paper and turned them on their sides of the top is now the back and I could easily "fill the boxes" with the prizes. Then I added the numbers.

To get a contestant I asked a trivia question - whoever shot their hand up first and had the right answer got to choose a box ( I have done regular trivia that was age appropriate and have also done holiday trivia).

Once the contestant chooses a box I give them 1 clue about the prize inside. They can then take the prize and sit down or switch and pick another box (note - I don't give a clue for the 2nd box if they switch). If they want to switch they have to do a challenge!

Challenge: - these are FUN!!! I have a bowl or container of strips of paper with different challenges written on them. Here's some ideas of what mine include:

1. Waddle like a duck around the room

2. Play basketball with an imaginary ball

3. Sing Happy Birthday to the person sitting next to you

4. Act like a gorilla for 10 seconds

5. Sing "I'm a little teapot" and do the actions

6. Sing the ABC's baby style

7. Do the crab walk across the room

8. Pretend you are watching a scary movie and are really scared

9. do the chicken dance 2 times while the rest of the players sing the song for you

10. Pat your head and rub your stomach for 10 seconds

11. Moonwalk across the room

12. Pretend you are underwater for 10 seconds

etc....

Of course all these challenges are done in front of everyone else which gets the whole room roaring with laughter!!!

Once the challenge is complete you can hand them their prize. The contestant sits down and the next trivia question is asked. Continue until all the prizes are given out and each person has had a turn.

tomorrow - we'll get crafty for New Years!

New Years Eve - surprise bags!

2011-12-26T03:37:00.003-07:00

We did this last year and my family LOVED it! I loved it too - it spread out the fun, it made even the "regular" everyday things seem exciting and I knew we were going to have a fun family New Years Eve!

Celebrate New Years Eve with SURPRISE time bags!

New Years is all about the countdown! So - countdown to the New Year with this fun activity!

The idea of the timed surprised bags is to plan an activity, treat, etc that will be revealed at the time listed on the front of the bag. Everyone can see the different times and the anticipation of what is coming next make it very exciting! You can start at any time you want during the day! Fill the bags with the activity or something that may represent the activity if it won't fit in the bag. Need some ideas of what activities to do? I will list some at the end but will also reveal some each day this week!

Materials:

Several bags (you could use lunch bags, small gift bags, decorative bags, etc)

Ribbon

Hole punch

glue stick

papers

Step 1: You can add the time to the front of the bag anyway you'd like to. I chose a clock face in a black/white/silver theme. I cut out some circles from book pages and cut another circle slightly larger from tin foil! I also cut some long skinny triangles for the clock hands.

Step 2: Layer the pieces and glue to the front of the bags. Be sure to place your clock face a couple of inches from the top of the bag. You want to be able to fold the top over to keep peeping eyes from discovering what is in there. Add your hour number ( I have a ton of rub on transfer so I just used what I had on hand!).

Step 3: Add your surprise activity, treat, etc. inside the bag - fold the top over - punch 2 holes and thread a ribbon through to top it off!

Place all the bags together on a table in a nice basket, etc. It may become one of your new favorite traditions!

Need ideas of what to fill the bags with??? Here's a few but come back each day this week to see some of my favorites!

1. Dance party! - Slip a CD into the bag with a note that says - family dance party for the next 30 minutes! Push the furniture to the walls and release your inner "Dancing Queen!" YES parents have to get involved to and let their hair down! We did this last year but as part of our activity we got "dressed up".

2. Favorite movie and popcorn! - depending on what time of day you start going to a movie as a family or surprising them with one and some microwave popcorn is always fun!

3. Make your own pizza night! - Dinner can be part of the New Years Eve fun too! Set up a bar of fixings and let each member be their own chef for the night! Get the whole family involved in the process - rolling out the dough, spreading the sauce, etc.

4. Build your own cupcake! - Put some fun sprinkles and candies in the bag with the note announcing dessert! We have done this one was well and the kids love frosting their own and creating their own delicious treat (piled high with sprinkles and candies!).

5. Game time! Gather the family around for your favorite board games or do the electronic route and break out the rock band or something similar where family member can be involved.

6. Treats! - Sometimes it's nice to just surprise them with a simple treat. Maybe it's a sucker or a candy bar. Each time doesn't have to big a deal - make it what works for your family!

7. American Idol/Who's got Talent! - Have a sing off! Set up a "stage" area, turn on a favorite song and perform as a band! Don't forget to turn on the camera to video the event! The kids will love to watch the playback! Or have a talent show - they could be real talents or silly ones!

8. Photo booth! - Slip the fun photo props into a bag and get ready for photos! Set up the camera on a tripod and dress up your background too if you want! Let the kids snap the photos too! They will love being in on all the fun too!

The bag TIMES can be as frequent or spread apart as you want them to be! And don't get me wrong here - not every moment has to be scheduled. Once your activity is done, everyone can go do what they want until the next "time" rolls around. But trust me - your kids/guests will be watching the clock!

**Tomorrow - another idea for New years and you could include it as surprise bag activity!
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I'll be linking up and sharing HERE

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

I hope your weekend is full of magical Christmas moments! Thank you for all the support and interest I have received this past year. It has been a great year for Brassy Apple and I can't wait to roll out my projects and, ideas and new patterns in 2012 and see what else a new year will bring!

From my family to yours.....Merry Christmas! ~ Megan

Stop by next week for some New Year's eve fun and ideas!

Festive free Holiday Printables

2011-12-21T03:18:00.002-07:00

Amy from the Thank you Card shop sent me a link to her free printables and I wanted to share them with you too! they are darling and will come in handy THIS season as well the next! This link is getting "pinned" for sure!

Her free printables include recipe cards, thank you cards, bookmarks, gift tags and more! You can also visit her shop and snag some of her great printable designs for a wonderful price!

When you pop over to her blog be sure to tell I sent ya!

Happy Printing!!!

Ten 10 Minute Holiday Crafts

2011-12-20T04:06:00.002-07:00

Amy from Overstock.com sent me this cute infographic and thought it would be fun to share it with you! We are getting down the wire - maybe these ideas will come in handy with time running out!

Shop for crafts
For more infographics visit the O.co Community

I totally love the chalkboard look! Happy crafting!!!

Mom it Monday #11 - Snow Bucket

2011-12-18T20:15:00.004-07:00

It's the week before Christmas and I can feel the excitement building!

Before you link up your ideas to share here's one from me!

Indoor Snow BUCKET!

It's our new favorite thing to do this winter! We haven't had much snow yet and it's been FREEZING outside BUT my kids have still been enjoying the snow!

Check out all the photos and details here or by looking below!

now it's your turn! Link up your ideas! Crafting, parties, sewing, kids, family, etc.

Rules:

1. snag and post a Mom it monday button or add the link back

2. direct links only

3. no selling or shops please!

have fun!

Snow Bucket

2011-12-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

This is our new favorite thing to do in the winter time! I originally saw a photo of the idea here and I ran with it!

This cost me $8.00 and has already proven it's worth over and over again!

We haven't had much snow yet this season but scooping it into this long, shallow tote bucket has been a novelty around my house! my little guy LOVES it! He gets to play in the snow without all the layers and the cold nose and toes! (throw a couple of towels over the table, fill the bucket and let them play)

My older kids love it too! We've built tunnels, forts, snowballs, hideouts, etc for their small toys and action figures. I pulled out some of the shovels and other digging toys from the sandbox, throw in a few kitchen spoons and cups and they will create their own fun!!

We even had a "hot tub" in the snow for some of the toys! You know, PO needs a good soak after his Kung Fu fighting :)

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I'll be sharing my idea at these linky parties!

More Neighbor gift ideas!

2011-12-16T09:22:00.002-07:00

(hello to those here from my TV segment on the Daily Dish this morning!)

I've posted some neighbor gift ideas already this season (here and here) but I've come up with a few more! Here's my latest ideas all in 1 place!

If you are going to give the traditional treats why not do so on a great platter or container the receiver can use. One idea would be to buy a charger plate and add the saying in vinyl - "cookies for santa". The receiver gets some treats and a fun plate to use year after year.

I always love a creative saying with a treat or gift!

Grinch Cookies:

Stir up your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe, add some green food coloring and crush up some candy canes to add with the chocolate chips. Pop them into a cute box (boxes from Martha Stewart) and add the cute tag/poem - get the printable HERE

Hot Chocolate Stirring Spoons:

Add some melted chocolate to some plastic spoons. (I found silver ones at the $1 store) You can use whatever chocolate you like - milk, dark, white, etc. While the chocolate is still soft add crushed candy cane, sprinkles, butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips, red hots - whatever YOU think would be good stirred into some hot cocoa! Let them harden and then wrap them up and attach this cute card.

Reindeer Noses:

Buy some whoppers and a candy that is red and about the same size as a whopper. I used gumballs. Put 8 whoppers in a bag or small container and 1 red one (we can't forget Rudolph!). Print out the bag topper and attach. Then add a cute tag that says - Just 'brown nosing" our neighbors with a treat and some Holiday wishes" - attach a family photo and add reindeer noses, santa hats and antlers to the photo. OR If you are giving it to a teacher say - Just a little "brown nosing" from your favorite student!. Again, you can use a photo of your child on the card.

Sew up a Hot/Cold Therapy Sack: These can be made into a fun character for the Holidays

Tutorial HERE

or with a great cotton fabric or sports themed for the man in your life! Tutorial HERE

and of course we can't forget New year's eve! Snag all the instructions and the printable for these fun photo props to capture your evening HERE

Happy gifting!! Have a great weekend!

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I'll be sharing my idea and linking up at these parties!

Creative Holiday Family letters

2011-12-15T04:19:00.000-07:00

Oh the family holiday letter! do you dread it? do you even include one in your Christmas Cards anymore? Do you look forward to sending out something creative and different? Some of these thoughts may be running through your mind so I wanted to share a few ideas to "spice" up your annual letter and maybe you won't dread it as much!

"Life" Board game style - this one is darling and customized from an Etsy shop!

(source)

Newsletter Style - look at the cute categories they included such as "places traveled" and "top 4 most awesome things we did", etc

(source)

ABC's - we actually did this one last year thanks to a friend for the idea! Here's a sample from another blog. Just use the ABC's and find 1 thing you this past year that relates to each letter!

Top 10 moments - Summarize your year with a classic countdown!

(source)

Newspaper style - the classic black and white and type script to express your press editor side!

(source)

and if you are just itching for more ideas - Mormon Chic has compiled a whole list of creative holiday letters!

now - go get typing! :)

Refashion with glitter sheets

2011-12-13T04:19:00.015-07:00

Transfer any plain top into something fun!

Supplies:

Knit top to embellish

Tulip® Fashion Glitter™ Shimmer Transfer Sheets (I used a silver and gold sheet)

Scissors

Iron

and because we all love a good before and after -

Step 1: Cut strips out of the gold and silver sheets starting at 1" wide going down to 1/4" wide. Pull the plastic cover off the top and the cut the strips into squares. Pulling the plastic cover off before you cut it into squares just saves you from peeling it off after you have a ton of cut pieces!

Step 2: Lay your knit top flat and place the squares starting at the top (neckline) with the biggest squares. Mix the gold and silver together and place them on all different angles sort of a in a "messy" pattern. The idea is for it to look like it's falling and getting smaller as it goes. I also placed mine in an upside down sort of triangle shape.

Continue placing the the squares on the top adding the smaller and small squares the further down you go. (if you find you need more of one size just cut additional squares)

Step 3: Adhere the squares to the knit top as directed on the packaging with a hot iron.

And you are done! Dress it up or wear it casual! I love the mix of gold and silver! It give me lots of option for jewelry and creating a different look each time I wear it!

find my disclosure here

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I'll be linking up here

Mom it Monday #10 - Mustache Photo prop printable

2011-12-11T20:47:00.001-07:00

It's time again to link up and show off how you got your "craft on" this past week! Sewing, paper crafts, decorating, etc! link up and show me your creativity!

I am sharing my neighbor gift idea that is perfect for New Year's Eve! You can find the full tutorial below or click on the link!

SO - what have you been busy doing?
Link up your tutorials, cooking, party ideas and more!!! I love to share some of my favorites on my Facebook page so get linking!