Hello my blog followers (all 3 of you, myself not included) and welcome to anyone viewing for the first time. With the recent death of someone very near and dear to my fiance and myself, I haven't had the time to get my craft on like I would like.
In lieu of a craft post, I would like to offer you all a coupon code for my Etsy store. If you like what you see, please feel free to click on my link in the right hand column and see what I have for sale in my store, AliHCreations.
For a limited time I'm offering a 10% discount to all shoppers that follow me on Facebook or that follow my Blog. All you need to do is enter the code, 10PERCENTOFF during checkout for a new, updated total.
Thanks so much and I hope you all hug and kiss your loved ones. Cherish every moment you have because we truly don't know when it will be our last. xoxo
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Baby Shower Invites
If you're like me...you currently have at least 10 friends that are pregnant right now. They seem to go in spurts, it will be quiet for awhile and then out of nowhere, you'd swear everyone you know is expecting. It's so exciting but I can only imagine how overwhelmed they are all feeling.
In the spirit of many of my girl friends expecting, I spent a few hours today crafting Baby Shower Invitations. I think they turned out super cute, although I will admit, I am a bit biased! For a tutorial, please see my previous days post. This is in addition to that post, just some more varieties to what I did with my Groom's Dinner Invitation. And now, they are all available on my Etsy Shop...AliHCreations.
Happy Thursday! It's almost the weekend!
In the spirit of many of my girl friends expecting, I spent a few hours today crafting Baby Shower Invitations. I think they turned out super cute, although I will admit, I am a bit biased! For a tutorial, please see my previous days post. This is in addition to that post, just some more varieties to what I did with my Groom's Dinner Invitation. And now, they are all available on my Etsy Shop...AliHCreations.
Baby Boy Invitation
Baby Girl Invitation
Happy Thursday! It's almost the weekend!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Something Blue...Groom's Dinner Invites
I'm not afraid to admit that I am a bit of a procrastinator, ok a REALLY big one! I realized this morning while wiping down the dry erase board for the new month that we are a mere 4 months from the wedding. To be honest, October still seems like years away but if I've learned anything as I grow older it's that time flies!
So, I've decided to tackle my groom's dinner invitations. I'm still waiting on the pocket folds from CardsandPockets.com to do my actual wedding invites so I will make do with what I have for now.
There are some things you should know about our wedding. Firstly, it will in no way, shape, or form be traditional. We are getting married at a ranch on the outskirts of the city limits. All of our guests will be brought to the ceremony site being held in the woods via horse drawn sleighs. Instead of chairs for the ceremony, there will be covered hay bales. Our dog, Dozer, is the ring bearer and I will be wearing my cowboy boots with my dress.
We are NOT doing the traditional 1 or 2 color options, instead we are using a pallet of autumn colors. Deep burnt oranges, mustardy yellows, Merlot reds and olive greens. Because of this choice, I have decided that the grooms dinner invites as well as the bachelor party invites need not follow a color scheme either. For them, I've chosen a mix between Kraft brown and cream and then also, oasis blue. I've completed a mock-up and extremely excited at how they turned out!
The hardest part was figuring out how to word the invitations because, in keeping with the non-traditional theme, my parents are hosting the grooms dinner, not his. After I tackled this mountain, the rest came pretty easily.
Originally, I wanted to do a different shape for the first layer but after some Internet searching and about 10 minutes cutting the shape one time with scissors, I passed and went for a simpler, "tag" look for the first layer. On the back side of the tag, I created a pocket for the RSVP information. In order for the guests to send it back as a post card it needs to be at least 3 1/2" x 5" so I chose to include the information that I would like from them as well as my email address on this insert. I wouldn't dream of having people RSVP for the actual wedding but I think I can get away with it since most people don't even send a formal invite for the grooms dinner.
I attached the event information to the oasis blue card stock cut to approx 3 1/2" x 5 1/2" and attached it all together with a matching ribbon. Simple, informational and in my opinion...adorable!
I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, I know I did. Nothing like family time to help you remember what's truly important in life...quiet time alone (ha ha, I'm only kidding)!
Time to make more invites. I would love feedback on them as I'm trying to decide whether or not to make a template and load them into my Etsy store.
So, I've decided to tackle my groom's dinner invitations. I'm still waiting on the pocket folds from CardsandPockets.com to do my actual wedding invites so I will make do with what I have for now.
There are some things you should know about our wedding. Firstly, it will in no way, shape, or form be traditional. We are getting married at a ranch on the outskirts of the city limits. All of our guests will be brought to the ceremony site being held in the woods via horse drawn sleighs. Instead of chairs for the ceremony, there will be covered hay bales. Our dog, Dozer, is the ring bearer and I will be wearing my cowboy boots with my dress.
We are NOT doing the traditional 1 or 2 color options, instead we are using a pallet of autumn colors. Deep burnt oranges, mustardy yellows, Merlot reds and olive greens. Because of this choice, I have decided that the grooms dinner invites as well as the bachelor party invites need not follow a color scheme either. For them, I've chosen a mix between Kraft brown and cream and then also, oasis blue. I've completed a mock-up and extremely excited at how they turned out!
The hardest part was figuring out how to word the invitations because, in keeping with the non-traditional theme, my parents are hosting the grooms dinner, not his. After I tackled this mountain, the rest came pretty easily.
Originally, I wanted to do a different shape for the first layer but after some Internet searching and about 10 minutes cutting the shape one time with scissors, I passed and went for a simpler, "tag" look for the first layer. On the back side of the tag, I created a pocket for the RSVP information. In order for the guests to send it back as a post card it needs to be at least 3 1/2" x 5" so I chose to include the information that I would like from them as well as my email address on this insert. I wouldn't dream of having people RSVP for the actual wedding but I think I can get away with it since most people don't even send a formal invite for the grooms dinner.
I attached the event information to the oasis blue card stock cut to approx 3 1/2" x 5 1/2" and attached it all together with a matching ribbon. Simple, informational and in my opinion...adorable!
I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, I know I did. Nothing like family time to help you remember what's truly important in life...quiet time alone (ha ha, I'm only kidding)!
Time to make more invites. I would love feedback on them as I'm trying to decide whether or not to make a template and load them into my Etsy store.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Decorative Clothespin Magnets!
Happy Thursday! I hope everyone has a safe and fun Holiday weekend. Before I head to the cabin, I thought I would share my newest love, clothespin magnets. My fridge is absolutely covered in these because they are so easy and cheap to make, once you start, you won't be able to stop!
Materials: Mod Podge, Scrapbook Paper, Clothespin, Paint Brush, Magnets, Scissors and Epoxy.
The first thing you want to do is pick your favorite scrapbook paper that you'd like to turn into a magnet. For me, this was the most difficult part and partly why my fridge is completely covered in these...I couldn't decide which one I liked best. For this, I chose Sock Monkeys by Recollections.
I measured a clothespin and made a template so that I can trace the template onto the backside of the paper. I have a friend that ways to cut the paper until it's attached to the clothespin but I find you get a cleaner look when you cut before you attach it. I tried using a scissor but I notice that if you can't cut straight, you can definitely tell. So, I use my Cricut paper trimmer for straight lines.
After the paper is cut to size, I coat the top of each clothespin with a layer of Mod Podge and lay the piece of paper on the clothespin. I like to make sure I get a good seal, so I run my finger down the clothespin a couple of times.
While these are drying, I cut the magnets to size. I prefer the strip of magnets that you can buy at any hardware store. I like to make sure that the magnet is thinner than the width of the clothespin so it doesn't stick out.
After the first layer of Mod Podge has dried, I apply 2 more coats to ensure they are completely sealed. After they are completely dry, I attach the magnet strip that I cut in the previous step to the backside of the clothespin with either 2 part Epoxy or E600 permanent adhesive. I've found that these hold the best. I let the dry overnight to ensure they are attached properly.
After they are dry they are ready to be displayed! Enjoy! Here are some ones that I have displayed on my fridge. They hold up really well.
Materials: Mod Podge, Scrapbook Paper, Clothespin, Paint Brush, Magnets, Scissors and Epoxy.
The first thing you want to do is pick your favorite scrapbook paper that you'd like to turn into a magnet. For me, this was the most difficult part and partly why my fridge is completely covered in these...I couldn't decide which one I liked best. For this, I chose Sock Monkeys by Recollections.
I measured a clothespin and made a template so that I can trace the template onto the backside of the paper. I have a friend that ways to cut the paper until it's attached to the clothespin but I find you get a cleaner look when you cut before you attach it. I tried using a scissor but I notice that if you can't cut straight, you can definitely tell. So, I use my Cricut paper trimmer for straight lines.
After the paper is cut to size, I coat the top of each clothespin with a layer of Mod Podge and lay the piece of paper on the clothespin. I like to make sure I get a good seal, so I run my finger down the clothespin a couple of times.
While these are drying, I cut the magnets to size. I prefer the strip of magnets that you can buy at any hardware store. I like to make sure that the magnet is thinner than the width of the clothespin so it doesn't stick out.
After the first layer of Mod Podge has dried, I apply 2 more coats to ensure they are completely sealed. After they are completely dry, I attach the magnet strip that I cut in the previous step to the backside of the clothespin with either 2 part Epoxy or E600 permanent adhesive. I've found that these hold the best. I let the dry overnight to ensure they are attached properly.
After they are dry they are ready to be displayed! Enjoy! Here are some ones that I have displayed on my fridge. They hold up really well.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Chalkboard Coasters
Happy Tuesday! I hope everyone is enjoying fabulous weather like us, "Duluthians" are! The craft of the day...chalkboard coasters. They can also be used for name cards/place cards for weddings. These are great for bbq's, camping, cabin trips or just enjoying a drink on your deck! Never lose your drink again. These re-usable coasters are a life saver when you have multiple people drinking the same thing.
So, to start I took just a basic round wooden circle that comes in a package of 4 from Michaels. I lay them all out on a giant piece of cardboard in a well ventilated area.
Next, I prime them. This is important because the wood is extremely porous and will soak up a ton of chalkboard paint if you don't prime them first.
After the primer has dried, I spray them with the chalkboard paint. Make sure to shake the can really, really well! I typically do about 3 coats of chalkboard paint to make sure they are totally covered. You can do more or less but I tend to think more is a waste but to each their own.
The chalkboard paint dries fast so it's a pretty quick process. Afterwards, you have fabulous looking coasters that are sure to be a hit. I know mine have been! If you're interested in purchasing these, please check out my Etsy Shop link in the right hand column. Thanks!
So, to start I took just a basic round wooden circle that comes in a package of 4 from Michaels. I lay them all out on a giant piece of cardboard in a well ventilated area.
Next, I prime them. This is important because the wood is extremely porous and will soak up a ton of chalkboard paint if you don't prime them first.
After the primer has dried, I spray them with the chalkboard paint. Make sure to shake the can really, really well! I typically do about 3 coats of chalkboard paint to make sure they are totally covered. You can do more or less but I tend to think more is a waste but to each their own.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Backless Frame + Initials = Cute, Inexpensive Decor!
So, after having recently re-done my kitchen, I've decided that I need to add some decor on the bare, blue walls. In my before pictures, there is a green frame hanging on the wall with initials inside. Well, I took that and re-did it to match the new kitchen colors.
Here is a tutorial on what I did from start to finish. Total, this project cost me $1.50!
I took a backless frame that I bought at Goodwill for .99 cents and painted it to match the wainscoting, Sail Cloth is the color. In between coats, I Mod Podged the initials, K & A that I had on chipboard from Michaels. I had purchased them about a year or so ago for around .50. I used some shabby chic floral colors that would match the look I was going for. After the first coat of Mod Podge was dry, I did another coat on top of the scrap book paper to seal it.
Once the Mod Podge was completely dried, I took 2 burlap strips that were scrap from another project (see it pays to save scraps) and hot glued them to the back side of the initials. Once the paint on the frame was dry, I hot glued the top of the strips to the backside of the frame and Voila! A super cute, inexpensive piece of decor that is one of a kind!
Happy Monday!
Here is a tutorial on what I did from start to finish. Total, this project cost me $1.50!
I took a backless frame that I bought at Goodwill for .99 cents and painted it to match the wainscoting, Sail Cloth is the color. In between coats, I Mod Podged the initials, K & A that I had on chipboard from Michaels. I had purchased them about a year or so ago for around .50. I used some shabby chic floral colors that would match the look I was going for. After the first coat of Mod Podge was dry, I did another coat on top of the scrap book paper to seal it.
Once the Mod Podge was completely dried, I took 2 burlap strips that were scrap from another project (see it pays to save scraps) and hot glued them to the back side of the initials. Once the paint on the frame was dry, I hot glued the top of the strips to the backside of the frame and Voila! A super cute, inexpensive piece of decor that is one of a kind!
Happy Monday!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Wedding Inspiration ~ Tissue Paper Napkin Rings
With our wedding fast approaching (October 8, 2011), I have decided to kick my preparations into high gear. I am doing a lot of my own decor to save on money. I knew since the start that I wanted to splurge on cloth napkins. They really complete the look that I have in my mind. I will admit, I was a little hesitant about spending close to $200 on napkins but I had come to terms with it. One day, while on CraigsList, I found a woman that was selling the ones she purchased for her wedding that were still in the packaging! Turns out she didn't want Ivory napkins, so after a few emails, I was able to get 275 cloth napkins for $50 including shipping. That's roughly .18 cents a napkin! With a deal like that, I couldn't resist.
My original plan was to go with a colored napkin so now my task is finding a way to spruce up the ivory a bit. After some research, I found the perfect way to do this. I'm going to be making tissue paper pom napkin rings! They are very easy to make and I think they really look great!
Here's what you need:
~Tissue Paper
~Scissors
~Floral Wire (I used white, cloth wrapped floral wire from Michaels)
The first thing you're going to want to do is cut 4 pieces of tissue paper in approximately a 10"x5" rectangle. Then, stack the 4 pieces on top of eachother. They don't need to be cut perfectly or line up exactly, it will work out just fine if they are off a bit.
After you have your 4 pieces, you want to fold the paper, accordian style going the 10" way down the paper. I like my folds to be about 1/2 inch, it makes it easier when you're fluffing the flower. Fold the paper back and forth until your at the end.
Once you reach the end, fold the accordian in half, this is where you'll put the floral wire. I use about a 6" piece for the small poms, I fold it over the accordian and twist at the base to form a secure hold on the paper.
Once you've attached the floral wire, you want to trim the ends of the tissue paper. You can do a rounded edge, a square edge or even a pointed edge. Each type of end creates a different look for your flower. I prefer the rounded edge look. Try to cut of the same amount on each end so the sides of your flower aren't off.
After you've cut the ends, you fluff! There are different ways to do this but I like going one layer at a time starting at the top layer. I pull the layer up towards the center on one half. Then, I go to the next layer of that half and so on until all 4 layers are seperated. Then I go to the other half of the accordian and do the same. After all of the layers are seperated throughout you can tweak the fluffing. Sometimes the edges get folded over or bent, just tweak it to your liking.
It's that simple! In my case, I will repeat these steps about 250 times! When I put it into numbers like that, it's kind of scary. Ha-Ha. Have a great day! :)
My original plan was to go with a colored napkin so now my task is finding a way to spruce up the ivory a bit. After some research, I found the perfect way to do this. I'm going to be making tissue paper pom napkin rings! They are very easy to make and I think they really look great!
Here's what you need:
~Tissue Paper
~Scissors
~Floral Wire (I used white, cloth wrapped floral wire from Michaels)
The first thing you're going to want to do is cut 4 pieces of tissue paper in approximately a 10"x5" rectangle. Then, stack the 4 pieces on top of eachother. They don't need to be cut perfectly or line up exactly, it will work out just fine if they are off a bit.
After you have your 4 pieces, you want to fold the paper, accordian style going the 10" way down the paper. I like my folds to be about 1/2 inch, it makes it easier when you're fluffing the flower. Fold the paper back and forth until your at the end.
Once you reach the end, fold the accordian in half, this is where you'll put the floral wire. I use about a 6" piece for the small poms, I fold it over the accordian and twist at the base to form a secure hold on the paper.
Once you've attached the floral wire, you want to trim the ends of the tissue paper. You can do a rounded edge, a square edge or even a pointed edge. Each type of end creates a different look for your flower. I prefer the rounded edge look. Try to cut of the same amount on each end so the sides of your flower aren't off.
After you've cut the ends, you fluff! There are different ways to do this but I like going one layer at a time starting at the top layer. I pull the layer up towards the center on one half. Then, I go to the next layer of that half and so on until all 4 layers are seperated. Then I go to the other half of the accordian and do the same. After all of the layers are seperated throughout you can tweak the fluffing. Sometimes the edges get folded over or bent, just tweak it to your liking.
It's that simple! In my case, I will repeat these steps about 250 times! When I put it into numbers like that, it's kind of scary. Ha-Ha. Have a great day! :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)