Batty4Arts

Big Changes

2011-09-04T10:25:00.000+12:00

The last week or so has been one of monumental decisions and the beginning of what I'm counting on being one of the most stressful years of my life.

We always knew that eventually we would be moving to the States. But what was going to be 3 years down the road suddenly got pushed to 12 months. Then, in a day or so, it was further pushed to 10 months! Moving 1/2 way around the world is stressful enough. Taking on the task with less than a year for all of the planning and preparations is like jumping off a cliff without being able to see where you're landing and just hoping there is going to be water.

And praying that water is deep enough to cushion your landing.

And that you miss the sharp pointy rocks.

And that the sharks are currently asleep or feeding elsewhere.

Anyway! We're heading off soon to visit my parents in the States, and while we're there we're planning to drive around a little and find a few areas that we feel we could enjoy living in. Hopefully that will give us some sort of idea about where we want to look for a new house.

For crafters, moving has a whole additional set of problems that have to be dealt with several months in advanced. For example, I have several projects in varying states of doneness. Do I push had to finish them? Do I relax and plan on finishing them whenever- potentially packing them away in a box? And what about the things that are done and up for sale but not yet sold? Do I have a sale? Leave them and pray? Take them off the market, pack them away, and put them back up after we're settled? And when's the best time to do all of that?

Possibly it's just me because I'm neurotic. Steve doesn't seem in the least bit stressed about any of this. Either that or my paranoia gives his fears a big enough place to hide.

Cleaning out the cobwebs

2011-08-08T15:51:00.000+12:00

Standing in a huge empty warehouse. It's dark. There's a few dirty windows up too high to reach letting in a thin bit of light that only serves to show how much dirt covers everything. Every once in a while there's a scratching noise coming from the corner that I'm pretty sure is some sort of rodent about the size of an elephant. And I'm too terrified to move because I just know that as soon as I do I'm going to walk into a spider's web. There's nothing worse than walking into a spider's web!

That's what it's been like inside my head lately. Add in a few echoes saying how far short I come. Now before you say how untrue it all is, that doesn't really come into play here. That's the worst part of depression- there's no logic involved!

So, that's why I haven't been on here for a while. I have been busy. Too busy actually. So I have some upcoming posts about what I've been doing.

Thank you for bearing with me!

Design

2011-06-27T10:21:00.000+12:00

Some mornings I wake up with no real brain function.

Ok, every morning. I'm NOT a morning person.

Anyway, this absence of thought can sometimes lead into interesting areas of observation. For instance, in my bedroom we have a wall that is covered in wallpaper that is a picture of a beach scene. Very nice. However, Saturday morning I found myself enthralled by one very small aspect of the picture:

This knobby bit.

I'm not sure what you call this exactly, but I'm pretty sure most people will understand what I mean by knobby bit.

Mainly looking at that top portion, I suddenly realized that it resembles other elements that we see everyday!

Hmmmm.....

That's a bright idea!

Or turn it on it's side.....

Much easier to see you with.

Right.

You get the idea.

My point is, design elements can come from anywhere. So never overlook the everyday objects. You never know where your next flash of inspiration will come from.

Friday Favorites

2011-06-24T16:58:00.002+12:00

I've never been what you would call a "girly" girl. I showed up for my first ballet lesson (around 5 years old) in head to toe black. I never dotted my i's with hearts or drew smiley faces in my o's. I didn't have a picture of that boy in class with flowers and hearts with our names doodled all over them. I was much more likely to draw daggers and dark clouds in the margins of my note paper rather than bunnies and butterflies. And my favorite color was NOT pink!

But I did make allowances. Dolls were always a big part of my childhood, along with stuffed animals and dress-ups- Mom's shoes were always a big hit! One of my treasured collections was (and still is) about as girly as they come- My Little Pony.

My little pony!

Yes, I am a child of the 80's. I watched the cartoon. I had imaginary adventures. And I loved every minute of it. So much so that I still have some of my favorite ponies.

Found here

I know I'm not the only one.

Yes, there is a part of me that wants to... recreate a Pony. But it'll have to be one I buy for the purpose as I have way too many cherished childhood memories from the few I saved.

But how cool is this!

Found here

Steve found this one while looking for good pictures of Rocky Horror makeup.

I love the fishnets!

And the rips in the gloves!

And the tattoo!

Found here

Rorschach! Now if there was a way that those spots could move around.

Found here

These are not the ponies you are looking for.

Imagine an episode of My Little Pony where the ponies have their adventure in the Death Star.

Hmmm... I wonder....

Found here along with a few others

Didn't have to wonder long!

Found here

NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA BAT HORSE!

And Robin!

Holy smokes Bat Horse!

Can't find it again! Can you help?

The beautiful ponies! The beautiful ponies! It's all relative to the size of your...something that rhymes with ponies.

Found here

I've no idea what this is from. I know I should, but I don't. I'm a bad geek.

But look how cute! And can you say mind boggling impressively amazing!

More pictures here

Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, and My Little Ponies? Pinch me I'm dreaming.

Could we get a Cap't Jack Sparrow?

Found here

Thank you!

More pictures here!

I'm not a fan of the green, but I love love LOVE the bony leg, the brain, and the eyeball hanging out of the socket! I would love to see this one done with a better paint job, though.

Yes, I'm quite aware that some people will look at these and think, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" But I think they're cool.

And it's my blog.

So there.

Short Circuit

2011-06-23T10:31:00.000+12:00

My brain has stopped working. Last night I had several instances when a simple word or phrase stayed just outside the reaches of my intellect. And yes, it's that time of the month, so my theory is my body is putting all it's energy into BABIES*, and if high school taught us anything, the less a girl thinks, the more likely she is to get pregnant.

In my daily online wanderings, however, I found this amazing website.

Basically, the idea behind it is that we constantly berate ourselves for not being as perfect as the rest of the planet. You browse through Etsy, read about other people's creations, or watch your husband create amazing jewelry, and it's easy to see your own stuff as not good enough.

Now, the simple answer is a definite possibility: your stuff isn't good enough. It doesn't come without it's share of pain. Trust me. Because when I say your I actually mean mine. I am the queen of mediocrity. I don't want to be mediocre, I want to be great. But I'm beginning to accept that great may not be in my reality. Why not be happy with mediocre?

The real question here is: do you enjoy creating? If the answer is no, you're doing something wrong. If the answer is yes, who else really matters? I've never been popular, I've never been the prettiest, or the smartest, or the best at anything. But I enjoy myself nonetheless. So who cares if there's someone better out there? The point is enjoy.

So, here's the challenge (and this comes directly from the website), make something ugly. Set out with the intention to make the most hideous thing you can think of.

Then, try to make it even uglier.

Now, I had a quick flick through some of the photos people had posted of their ugly creations, and there was one thing in particular that stood out to me: nearly all of them were creatures and not things.

Is it because people see an ugly inside of themselves and have a desire to purge that bit of themselves out? Or is it simply that it's much easier to create an ugly someone instead of a something.

Or maybe I'm getting way too deep for this early in the morning.

Happy (ugly) crafting!

Steve's Stuff

2011-06-22T10:49:00.000+12:00

While I've been keeping myself occupied and mostly out of trouble, Steve has found ways to do the same. With much better results, I might add.

He's got back to his bone carving, which is truly a delight. Sure, the smell in the garage is deathly, and I have to rewash the clothes that were hanging out to dry there because they're now covered in bone dust, but.... well, see for yourself:

This was actually his second project. It can be worn as a brooch, or as a pendant. I love jewelry that comes with choices!

That impeccable calla lily is hand carved from bone. And he carved the leaf from a bit of wood. Stunning!

This was his first attempt at wire wrapping. So, of course, he's not happy with it, but everyone else who sees it drools over it for a while.

Once again, that skull is hand carved bone.

Check out the tribal detail!

My man is certainly talented!

If you are interested in purchasing either of these pieces, please visit our Etsy shop.

Happy crafting!

Birds of a feather

2011-06-21T11:20:00.000+12:00

When my son requested a Spiderman themed birthday party, I had to order stuff from the States in order to make that happen.

When he wanted Ben 10 as the theme, shipping prices had sky rocketed, and no one in the country had any Ben 10 supplies. Of course, the patchwork Ben 10 party I created from scratch was quite a hit with the kids!

Now, of course, every store around that carries party supplies is over run with Spiderman and Ben 10. So great that they got on the ball after I needed that stuff!

So this year, when he requested Rio as his theme, well, I died a little inside.

If you haven't seen the movie, it's really cute! I loved it. Possibly more than he did, but not by much. When I took him to the theatre to see the movie, he sat through the end credits stating that he was going to stay there and watch it again! It was only the fact that we went to the last show of the day that finally convinced him to leave.

And of course, McDonald's had all the happy meal toys at the ready before the movie was even released.

So why? Why why why WHY are there no party supplies?

I checked local shops. No. (I didn't actually expect them to due to my previous experiences.)

I checked online. No.

I checked online in the States! No.

I've now set my Mom to work to see if she can find anything, but the majority of the party will be patchwork.

I'm not really complaining too bitterly, though. I kind of enjoy finding the creative solutions to life's little conundrums. And I'm not trying to make this party the talk of the year. I don't think this is going to gain my son any friends he doesn't already have (most of whom are girls with huge crushes on him! Ugh.), or influence people in lofty positions on the playground. Simple=good. Stress free=FUN!

And this year, the party is NOT at the house! BOOYA! Little to no clean up. Why didn't I think of this before?

Oh right. It's expensive to rent places. Nothing to stop us just showing up for a bar-b-que, though. And who doesn't bring tropical decorations to a mid-winter bar-b-que?

Yeah, tropical decorations are actually pretty easy to find. I stumbled across plates, napkins, cups, and ceiling danglies all with a tropical theme this morning. Half my work is done already!

As for the invitation, take a look:

Google picture from the movie + Microsoft Publisher = FABULOUS!

The back of the invitation has all the details about the when, where, what the party is.

Next step: set up a playlist on my ipod with music from artists such as Carlos Santana, and probably download the Rio Soundtrack and include it on the playlist as well.

Then, plan out goodie bags.

After that, plan a cake.

And finally, enjoy the party!

Oh Rocky!

2011-06-20T11:10:00.001+12:00

June's date night is going to be one of those memorable events.

Sometimes you just feel it.

And sometimes it's because it involves cross dressing, heavy make-up, and dancing to the Time Warp!

Yes, this Saturday night, Steve and I will be getting all dolled up and hitting the town for a Rocky Horror Picture Show evening.

I just hope his high heels come in time! Around here you have to special order things like that. Apparently there's not a lot of cross dressing in our little town.

Or I'm just not shopping at the right places.

Anyway, as you may have guessed, Steve will be attending the showing of the fabulous RHPS dressed as Dr. Frank- a Scientist. Meanwhile, I will be going as his creation, Rocky.

Now, I know what you're thinking- Rocky's a man. But you know, we all have a little man in each of ....

Moving on.

(And for those of you who thought Rocky's a boxer, well SHAME!)

Look! Shiny!

I asked my ever so talented pattern maker (aka Steve) to put his magic to use and make me a pattern for a top.

I should have guessed when he asked for the newspaper that this is what he was doing.

It worked, though, so I can forgive the.... ummm....classy pattern pieces.

And yes, you counted correctly- there are three! Three pattern pieces! Bwahahaha!

And look! Instructions!

Written in red.

With pictures.

It's a pretty simple pattern actually.

Overlock the side seams.

Overlock the raw edges.

This just helps later when you sew them down.

If you don't have an overlocker (or a serge machine in the States because for some reason it's not fun to call things by the same name world wide), get one.

Or use a zig zag or stretch stitch.

But seriously get yourself an overlocker/serge machine. One day I'd like to have one that does the seam like what you find on so many commercially made clothes. It would make life a little easier.

At least that's what I tell Steve.

Now is a really good time to stop and pick up all the things that fell off the table due to the intense vibration caused by the overlocker being used on a rickety table that was never intended to cope with such abuse.

Wuss table.

And while you're at it, why not take a moment to watch the drug addict teens searching for magic mushrooms in the undergrowth.

It used to bother me to have them out there. Then I noticed how many dogs choose those bushes to do their business.

Yeah, enjoy your drugs boys.

Anyway, switching to my regular machine (see how much easier it would be if one machine could do it all?), I'm using a zig zag stitch to sew the top seam.

Hence why I didn't need to worry about matching the thread to the material.

And sewing the neck piece on.

The front laces up...

I'll give you a moment to take that in.

Got it? Right. So I'm making the laces. Or lace. No... Ok, if there's only one, is it still called laces? What's the singular form?

Hmmm.....

Making the string bit to keep my bits concealed whilst wearing the top in public.

Yes, it's wordy, but it works.

Yellow skinny snake.

You're coiled up on the couch.

Won't you cover me?

So now using my Specialized Turning Instrument for Creative Knowledge, I begin to make the yellow snake gold. It's like magic.

A note of warning: When using the Specialized Turning Instrument for Creative Knowledge, it's a good idea to wear safety glasses for when the STICK flails around as you manically try to force the fabric on. Jade's Law- when a STICK is waving around manically, it's only a matter of time before you find yourself in need of a really cool eye patch.

This is about the point where I remembered the shiny material has a tendency to stick to itself.

It wasn't going anywhere.

So I traipsed downstairs waving it around like I had suddenly become an epileptic ribbon dancer and showed Steve. Who took one look at it and said, "Don't use a stick!"

I'm not using a stick! That would neanderthalish. I'm using a Specialized Turning Instrument for Creative Knowledge. Totally different.

"Use a safety pin."

...

Secure Apparatus For Effectively Turning Your Piece INside out.

It worked much better.

He's such a smart ass.

Insert theme from 2001 A Space Odyssey here.

Golden fabric snake.

Ribbon of gilded pleasure.

I have beaten you!

The original plan was to make more of those gold tubular thingies, but I REALLY don't want to.

Besides, I just got a grommet tool and I really need to use it.

Metal squishing fun!

Ooooo pretty!

The grommets not bad either.

Even on the inside.

Ta-da!

Shiny.

Professional looking.

And did I mention shiny?

Laced up.

Yeah. I'm beginning to get just a bit nervous here.

Once again deviating from the original plan. See, the original called for Velcro to secure the neck together.

I hate Velcro.

It invariably fails at the most inopportune moment, it's scratchy, and, quite frankly, I despise that noise.

It's a personal thing.

I do however love buttons. Buttons are awesome! They're cute and pretty and SHINY!

Button holes on the other hand can be a bit of a pain when attempted on stretchy material.

Dammit.

Ok, fold the edges over to help hide the butchering of taking the button holes out (the first person to mention that the seams aren't straight will be beaten to a pulp. Deal?).

I love my new grommet tool.

Notice the placement of the grommets. I was pretty sure I'd only need two, but just in case, I spaced them far enough that I could put another one on if I needed to.

Two worked fine.

Of course, this means another gold rope tubey thing, but it was only a short one.

I tried to model this on my duct tape mannequin, but since it sort of repositions certain bits, it really needed to be on living flesh.

Thank you, Steve, for taking the pictures.

The reason I'm so white (in addition to flash burn out) is that it's mid-winter here. That's the main reason I'm starting to get a bit nervous about this whole thing. I'm going to be walking around at night in this!

Extra doses of vitamin C please!

Yeah. I feel a bit exposed.

Steve assures me it looks good, though. I'm gonna trust him, and avoid mirrors!

Oh, and he's making me a matching skirt.

I'm literally going to freeze my ass off!

Happy crafting!

Attack of the ties

2011-06-18T10:59:00.000+12:00

Yes, I've failed in my duty. It isn't that I haven't been doing stuff....it's more that I haven't stopped doing stuff long enough to write about the stuff I'm doing!

That, and playing games on Facebook. There really should be some sort of group therapy for that sort of thing.

But I do so love my attack posts, and since this weekend is a very special weekend in the States, I couldn't miss the opportunity. So, this one's for you, Dad!

What's more traditional for Father's Day than a gift of a tie?

I'm pretty sure there's some sort of symbolism in that. Like a noose tightening around your throat. The end of reckless abandon, the beginning of a lifetime of servitude to the little people who have taken charge of your life.

Or possibly it's just to keep your neck warm.

I think this would look much better in bright primary colors.

With white face paint.

And a rainbow wig.

And a flower that squirts water.

But perhaps your dad hasn't yet been corrupted by the corporate machine that pays for your food, shelter, educational future, concert tickets....

That's ok, too! We've got him covered.

Well, halfway at least.

Or perhaps he's a nature lover.

The great thing about these ties is that you don't have to buy him a separate bottle of cologne! They come complete with the smell of wood shavings and paint thinner rubbed right in.

Of course, let's not forget dad's feet. There's no reason dad's footwear can't be both comfortable and stylish.

Which brings me to the versatility of the semi-forgotten accessory- the bow tie.

Pair it with a matching vest and your dad doesn't need to shout from the rooftops that his hot, his impeccable fashion sense will do it for him.

Bow ties are also a great way for dad to show off his hobbies.

Be it a gambling addiction.

Spending hours on the water drinking beer claiming to be attempting to catch dinner.

Or singing Queen songs at karaoke night.

Because, let's not forget, bow ties are cool.

Or perhaps your dad, like mine, doesn't wear ties at all. Even really cool bow ties.

That's ok, give him wall art instead!

Whenever the sun streams in through the window to hit this homage to hommes, he'll be thinking about you as he squints, trying to see the tv in vain.

Just don't expect to be mentioned in the will.

I have a soft spot in my heart for single parents, they have to be both parents. So, single moms, you don't get left out either!

Sorry.

We seem to have gone back to the whole circus theme again. Maybe it has something to do with that incessant whining from the smallish people in the house that the sole purpose of a parent is to constantly provide entertainment on demand.

Of course, what holiday would be complete without a hideous knitted sweater?

Especially for my dad.

I love you!

Happy Father's Day!

Oops

2011-06-15T10:07:00.000+12:00

Yesterday, Steve and I spent the day in town. Which is why I didn't do right by you and post my daily mutterings and musings.

We started with the most divine massage, which was wonderful!

Then we had lunch from a taco stand run by real Mexicans- bon appetite!

Then we wandered for a bit, just because we could. It wasn't necessarily aimless wandering. Steve got some shoes for Tai Chi and we picked up some comics for the wee boy. I earned points with the comic guy when I asked about The Maxx. Did you know it went out of print a few years ago? Bummed! I always loved The Maxx.

Anyway, we finally made our way back to the car where I discovered that our parking ticket had fallen out of my back pocket at some point in our wanderings! $60 for a lost ticket! So Steve worked his magic on the parking attendant, and he was kind enough to issue us a new ticket. And then he broke the news to us.

We had parked at 9:30 that morning. It was now 1:30pm. If we left now we would pay the hourly rate which would amount to $40. Or, we could find something to do for half an hour and pay the daily rate of $16 if we left at or after 2pm.

This is why I hate paying for parking. What sort of sense does that make? Stay for longer and pay less than half as much. Who is in charge of things like that? Do people sit around in giant board rooms discussing how they can screw with people's minds? And what if you park in that building when you're working in town, then discover you have to leave work early because you or your offspring fall ill during the day? Expecting to pay $16, you're suddenly given a bill for $50! Talk about adding insult to injury- make that illness.

Anyway, we ate up that half hour with a coffee and turkish delight at Mojo Cafe. Yummy.

It wasn't until we were halfway home that we suddenly realized that one of the main reasons for making the trip into town was to visit a large craft supply shop there. One that was practically across the street from where we were parked!

I'm just going to pretend that they didn't have what we needed in stock, and therefore we would have spent heaps of money on things we didn't know we needed.

Because having a terrible memory saves money.

Happy crafting!

Forgotten Day

2011-06-13T09:41:00.000+12:00

Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night and wondered what the heck you did the previous day?

I know I was busy, but I don't seem to have accomplished anything. And it wasn't even my usual have to make lunch but on the way to the kitchen I noticed I had to pick up some of my son's toys, then saw that the load of laundry I had sorted the day before still needed to be washed, but there was already a load of laundry in the washer, then on my way to the dryer I saw that the plants needed to be watered.... I mean, that happened, too, but I'm getting more used to that.

Possibly I'll discover another 15 things that I started and forgot about as I run through the process yet again today.

But today is a special day. You see, Steve's taken this week off work. Which means that although I'm not officially on holiday, I am by default.

I don't expect to accomplish much this week. And I'm perfectly ok with that.

Happy ~~relaxing~~ crafting!

Keeping warm

2011-06-12T09:32:00.000+12:00

Outside my window this morning it's a world of white. Well, more of a platinum or silver. No, it's not snow, thank goodness, it's just rainy, misty, drizzly, crap weather. So I'm sitting here in direct line from the heater with my coffee and a candle going to help me stay positive....looking at pictures of when crafts attack.

And you know who doesn't have the benefit of coming indoors to get warm when the icy weather descends on the world like a hawk descends on a gopher?

That's right, trees!

I'll bet you never give a thought about the trees in your garden out there shivering in the elements.

Although, I'm not sure humiliating them is much better. I'll bet this tree goes home with a black eye after school and a nickname that will follow it for the rest of it's life.

For a tree that's way worse because they can live for a very long time!

Now, I can hear the snickering from the northern hemisphere crowd. Y'all are heading into summer. Heat waves, days at the beach, picnics in the park, and....

backyard bar-b-ques!

When that summer sun dips below the horizon, the temperature can drop quite quickly and it's good to have a stylish wrap handy at such a time.

Won't you just be the life of the neighborhood watch party in this get-up?

But even before the sun dips down, you can be sure to stay stylin' all summer long!

There's just no words for this.

And hey! Let's not forget the kids! I know school is out in some areas, but being from California, school always went until just before Father's Day. So, I know that some schools must still be in prom season. And for all of you who are past prom season, here's an idea for next year:

Because, you know, those strapless dresses can get quite chilly late at night, and as long as you keep your wrist warm with this lovely corsage, you'll be just fine to dance the night away!

Happy crafting!

Blue tassel army

2011-06-10T11:59:00.000+12:00

Continuing with my hip scarf decoration. I've attached the ~~white~~ Ecru tassels and some copper pendants I ~~swiped~~ re-appropriated from some necklaces I got from the $2 store. But, it needs more.

Enter the ~~blue~~ navy yarn.

I want the ~~blue~~ navy tassels to be a bit smaller than the ~~white~~ ecru, so I'm using a smaller book this time.

Sometimes I even read books!

This one's too big. Not for reading, just for the size tassels I want. I could just cut them down to size, but that would be a waste.

Waste not, want not.

Hmmm....still too big.

Yeah, we're going for tiny here.

I call this one Goldilocks and the 3 tassels.....actually, make that Copperlocks and the 3 tassels- I have red hair at the moment.

I need a LOT of this mini ~~blue~~ navy tassels. A veritable ~~army~~ force of mini ~~blue~~ navy tassels!

Now, as I was making my ~~army~~ force of little ~~blue~~ navy tassels, I was asked, “Can you wrap them too tight?”

Who asked? Umm….well, it wasn’t a person on the outside per se. But the good thing about having lots of people residing in your own head is that the potential for being lonely is greatly diminished.

When this person/voice asked his question, the other people- voices whatever- were incredulous and scoffed. A few were even angered by the question thinking that it was a tactic to waste time and they formed an angry mob complete with pitch forks and torches. As they closed in on this wee questioner in menacing fashion, shaking with rage and fury, I called out, “Wait! The question has merit!”

Turns out it may be possible to wrap the tassels too tightly, although I’m pretty sure there’s a threshold of tautness that can’t be crossed without the yarn breaking. However, it is certainly easy to wrap the tassels too tightly to pass the needle through the middle without assistance.

Enter HERO THIMBLE! Yes, able to push needles through with a single thrust (sometimes more) and save your fingers from certain doom! (Insert wild cheers here.)

Oh, and I should note that the rest of the villagers- voices whatever they both start with v this time- apologized to the lone questioner and made him a very yummy pie.

Mmmmm……pie….

Look tassels!

And just to point out, please notice that the mini tassels are all wrapped tight and neat. Yes, the tassel pirates haven't gotten to me yet!

Arrgh!

The mini ~~blue~~ navy tassels go marching 5 by 5, HURRAH HURRAH!

And yes, as my ~~army~~ force of mini ~~blue~~ navy tassels go marching off into the distance they pay homage to their ruler and overlord, the kind and generous scotch.

Fly my pretties!

I need a vacation.

Somewhere sunny.

Happy crafting!

Dictionary

2011-06-09T13:45:00.000+12:00

I've finally started to decorate one of my practice hip scarves that has been sitting here, maliciously mocking me for several weeks.

The first part is relatively straight forward: make tassels. You can buy tassels at a store, but they tend to be expensive, and you typically have one, possibly two sizes to choose from. Much more effective to make your own.

I'm using some fine satin yarn in Ecru- not white, Ecru- to make my tassels. I want them fairly long so I'm using my Micro-Macrame book to wrap the yarn around (50 times, just because that seems like a nice number).

Once you have the tassel as thick as you want it, slip it off the book (or what ever you're using), and choose an end to wrap. I tend to go for the end that does NOT have the other end of the yarn.

Wrap a bit of the yarn, first away from the end of the bundle, then towards the end of the bundle. Make sure you wrap tightly and neatly. Although if you have to choose one or the other, make it tight.

Not sure why you would have to choose, but maybe you're being held for ransom in a dark room by yarn hijackers and they're sadistic enough to force you to make thousands of tassels, but they make you choose if you will wrap them neatly or tightly, "Only choose one you dog! Or I KILL YOU!"

Where was I?

Oh right! See? Neat and tight.

Now, cut the dangly bit of yarn attaching your tassel to the ball/skein/knot-because-most-of-it-has-now-fallen-off-and-is-bunched-on-the-floor-where-the-cat-thinks-you're-the-best-owner-for-having-provided-her-with-endless-joy/whatever you want to call it.

And tie a knot to secure the wrapping.

I don't like using glue for my tassels, but many do, so I suppose it's a viable option.

You know. If you want to be one of those people.

Then, thread the dangly bit onto (or is that into?) a needle and thread the needle down through the center of the wrapped portion.

Cut the loopy bits at the long, unwrapped end and TADA! Have yarn will tassel.

I bet you're wondering why on Earth a post about tassels would ever be titled "Dictionary." Have I lost my mind? Have I started drinking really early? Is this some sort of plot to make you question the very fabric of existence?

Well, yes, no, and quite possibly. But there is an actual reason, keep going.

See, in the Micro-Macrame book there is a pattern for making beaded tassels. How cool is that?

And as I was following the instructions, I came to realize that what the world really needs is a Beaders to English Dictionary. So I have begun compiling one.

Easy project- Take 2 aspirin before beginning because by the time you through said project into the corner you're going to have quite a headache!

Thread on a bead- Scream at the stupid thread for being too thick, the stupid bead for having a hole too small, then find bigger beads to use. You will then of course need to find a ~~weapon to threaten said bead and thread to behave~~ tool to make the process less dangerous and prone to emotional break downs.

Tool box- Should always contain plenty of band-aids to patch up the holes in your fingers made by your tools.

Simple knots- See "Easy project."

Difficult knots- Pour yourself a drink. It may still look like crap, but you won't care as much.

Add another bead- Make it a really pretty one to distract viewers from the rest of the piece.

Continue in this manner- Maybe if I keep going it will all eventually come together.

You may be familiar with the 5 stages of grief, this also applies to a botched beading job. This would be the denial phase.

Stunning- Why does nothing I do ever turn out right?

This is also part of the anger and/or depression stage.

Gorgeous accessory- What the hell is that supposed to be?

Looks a bit like a jelly fish on steroids.

Keep practicing- Yes, I couldn't do it at first either and the reason I said it was simple was so you would buy my book.

Finally comes the final stage of grief- acceptance. You know, it is possible to do too much. I think it looks good like this.

Of course you know this means war. I can't not knot. And come on! Beaded tassels? It doesn't get cooler than that. It's just going to take a bit more time.

And look! Bead work!

Yep, stunning, gorgeous, and simple accessory.

Happy crafting!

Nicholas

2011-06-08T10:21:00.001+12:00

Yes, I've finished a Santa.

Celebration and general woo hooing to commence soon.

I'm not sure why he gave me such a hard time.

But oh he was worth it!

This is going to be one of those projects that's going to be very hard to let go.

That black fur really works!

And of course, Santa just isn't complete without a toy of some sort.

I glued the yarn on for his beard and eyebrows. You can see how much it changes his whole countenance.

Kind of looks like Santa at the end of the night!

And the sash.

I didn't like how the beading was looking because it just didn't stand out enough. So, I made it twice as long and twisted it together.

The view from the back shows it off a bit better.

Now I have a bit of a decision to make. I can either list him on Etsy now, or hold him for a local craft fair that I've signed up to do again this year (anyone in the Pinehaven area in September, mark your calendars for the weekend of the 3rd!). If he doesn't sell at the craft fair (I have yet to make a sale there), I'll certainly list him on Etsy afterwards.

But what do you think? List him now or hold off?

Happy crafting!

Giving wings

2011-06-07T09:31:00.000+12:00

When our children are born they are completely dependent on us for everything. And let's face it, that gets old really fast. We suddenly realize that there are 2 things that are deeply required, had been previously taken for granted, and which are now denied to us: sleep and bathing. But this denial eventually fades and we find balance returning once more as the child grows and becomes more independent with each passing day.

That's about when we realize how easy we had it when they were dependent on us for everything.

However, there's a brief time when they are still extremely dependent on us, but are able to take care of the little incidentals on their own and that's a really cool time. Unfortunately, it doesn't last long and they soon want to do the fun stuff on their own, too.

Sometimes it's really hard to let that stuff go.

My son had a school project to make a robot out of recycled materials. And this is what he came up with.

Now, I did help with planning and finding materials and supervised the hot glue gun, but he really took the lead on this one.

And it was really difficult.

I found it quite hard to sit back and let him make mistakes and have the joy of creating on his own. I'm a bit ashamed to say that if I could do it again, I would change it a lot and let him have more control. But, I suppose that's part of what parenting is about. It's a learning experience for both of us.

And since I know he'd be upset if I didn't share his favorite part: the jet pack on the back. It was the one requirement he had for the robot throughout the entire process. In fact, it was the first piece he found for it!

Happy Crafting!

Fit for a Queen

2011-06-06T10:40:00.000+12:00

For those of you in the States, we in the Land Down Under are having a long weekend to celebrate the Queen's Birthday.

Being American, I have no idea when the Queen's actual birthday is. And apparently celebrating the occasion by wearing a tiara and eating birthday cake is not the traditional observance.

However, I love birthday cake, and I love tiaras. I'm starting a new tradition!

Now, I could do the honorable thing and share what I've been doing lately, but I've been a bit of a slacker and haven't actually made much progress in the last few days. Some, but not a lot. So, instead, I thought we could all enjoy another installment of When Crafts Attack- Queen Style!

Of course, to honor her properly, we have to know what we're aiming for.

This is not it.

OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!

Put on our prettiest party dresses.

Ummm....or that one.

Find your best jewelry.

And top your perfectly coiffed tresses with a tiara that is suitably...

Ummm.....

Stunning.

Don't get me wrong, I like sparkly pom pom balls. But honestly, this is just.... there are no words.

And I'm pretty sure this falls under the category of child abuse. If it were made by a three year old, then hey! It's great! But this was made by a mother, with step by step instructions published online to encourage other mothers to make their daughters wear this.

Isn't there some sort of agency that prevents this sort of thing?

And again. This one was made out of an old ice cream container.

People, it's ok to buy some of your costume supplies at a store.

But maybe your little princess (or you) prefers a more modern approach to the traditional tiara.

And falling down from the massive weight of your jewels.

Notice how the ear piece is not on her ear.

I wonder how well she can see.

At least she put on her dressy flannel shirt to compliment this fantastic accessory.

Now it's your turn to decide, because honestly I'm not sure if this is horrible or not.

Sure, it looks more suited to something you'd rip out of your garden instead of adorning your head. But I can see it working to top off a Mother Nature costume.

Maybe it needs to be seen in context.

Unfortunately, that picture doesn't seem to exist. At least not online. So you'll just have to use your imagination.

Happy crafting!

Third Eye

2011-06-04T10:24:00.000+12:00

Do you remember when Gwen Stefani did the whole bindi thing and every store that ever thought about selling fashion accessories had bindis by the boat full? Well, apparently now that I've discovered how amazing bindis can be, they are no longer fashionable and therefore incredibly hard to find.

Story of my life.

Luckily, they are simple to make.

If you can find the supplies. Apparently rhinestones are not popular at the moment either. I'm not entirely sure I understand that, by the way. I mean easy, affordable, tiny pieces of bling. How can this not be popular? Rhinestones will always be loved by girls of any age or gender.

Yeah, the only place online that I can find bags of rhinestones for sale are Drag Queen supply sites. They get all the fun stuff!

Anyway! As you may recall, I found these:

I was over joyed because I thought I had found the answer to my prayers!

Or not.

But I'm getting ahead of myself.

Before I found out what a horrible mistake I had made, I made a bunch of half inch diameter circles with a compass on some heavy paper.

I made them in random places instead of neat rows because I was feeling quite random at the time.

I'm such a rebel!

Then, I put a dab of glue on a scrap piece of paper and used a q-tip/cotton bud/ear poker/whatever you prefer to call it to spread a thin layer of the glue on one of my circles.

Then, working quickly because the glue dries quickly, I began building up my pattern of sequins using tweezers to put them in place.

This is about where I stopped (you'll see in the following pictures I did do a bit more, but not much) because, let's face it, this is crap.

Know when to give up your idea. Admit defeat. Once you do, you can come up with something much better.

So I got some tubs of sew on sequins at the craft store. These aren't exactly what I wanted, but since they're the only ones readily available, they will have to do.

This time, rather than spreading the glue on the circle, I dipped the rhinestones into the glue, and placed them. Once again using tweezers, but this time with the additional aid of a toothpick.

High quality tools.

Still not entirely ready to admit total defeat with the sequins, I used them in conjunction with the rhinestones.

As well as some small beads.

Using a pair of small, sharp scissors (I used manicure scissors), carefully cut out the shapes.

The manicure scissors worked really well, by the way. The slight curve of the blades proved fantastic!

Next, it's sealing time!

Nail top coat works quite well for this. One or two coats front and back.

And voila! Complete!

Now, this was the first time that I attempted these, and I've learned a few things. For instance, the sequins... don't like them. You may want to be careful when opening cards from me for a while.

And secondly, I don't like the paper backing. It's not too bad since you don't see it when you're wearing them, however, I would like to put these up for sale, and I have high standards for what I sell. Therefore, I will be experimenting with other materials. Stay tuned!

And happy crafting!

Diagnosis

2011-06-03T08:45:00.000+12:00

There is a plague that seems to be running rampant among crafters of all shapes, sizes, and socio-economic status. It affects all manner of crafters regardless of their craft of choice. It has several different names, but one which we all fall into is CADD (Crafter's Attention Deficit Disorder).

I'm taking a moment to call attention to this affliction because I myself, yes, yours truly, suffer from CADD. I was recently diagnosed, and in this instance self diagnosis is totally valid! Perhaps you too suffer from some form of CADD- BADD (Beader's Attention Deficit Disorder), JADD (Jeweler's Attention Deficit Disorder), SADD (Sewer's Attention Deficit Disorder), etc. and so forth.

Some of the symptoms to look out for include: multiple projects in varying states of readiness- usually more than 3, a workspace that appears to have been the victim of a horrifying terrorist attack, and a stack of design ideas and/or a to do list a mile long. Symptoms may vary depending on the individual.

If you feel your symptoms match those above, and that you may be afflicted by CADD, worry not! You are not alone. While it is true that there is currently no cure for CADD, it is not something to be afraid of either. CADD is simply the effects of your creativity unleashing it's power over your section of the world! Revel in your pig sty of a studio! Take pleasure in knowing that you hold the power to create something out of nothing!

Well, at least it's a good excuse when someone points out the mess.

Happy crafting!

Feeling better

2011-06-02T11:12:00.000+12:00

Sometimes, through circumstances beyond our control, our plans for gorgeousness spin wildly out of control and the end result of our lofty ideas resembles something produced in a preschool.

Yeah, the rhinestone stand-in didn't work as well as I had hoped.

We move on.

But after several failed attempts at something, or multiple somethings, it can begin to feel quite depressing. Finding the will to continue along your creative path can be difficult when the icy hands of despair have you firmly in their grasp.

It's at times like these I like to ~~make fun of other people~~ find examples of crafts that are ~~hideously awful~~ ~~much worse than anything I could ever possibly do~~ ummm..... crafts that seem to have been ~~beaten with the ugly stick~~. Hmmm....

Nope, sorry. I can't think of a nice way to put this. Here, you try.

What's more patriotic than a severed head in a styrofoam cup with pink glitter?

I don't have a clue as to what function this is suppose to fulfill. I'm going to go with self defense.

Keep this gem in your purse for emergency situations. If an attacker approaches you in a dark alley, show this to him and if he doesn't collapse in fits of hysterical laughter, he'll run away in screaming horror!

I wonder where all the Barbie bodies are. Seriously, Barbie's head is used so often, but the bodies are no where to be found.

That's just creepy.

Oh.

Right.

I think I get it now.

I've found so many of these amazing crafts, that I think I may have to post a few more... inspirational blog entries.

Fighting inevitability

2011-06-01T10:43:00.000+12:00

I haven't made any more progress on the beaded sash for Santa. Why? I don't know. It's not exactly what I wanted, but since I can't find some larger gold beads that are suitable, I'm just going to have to suck it up. I have looked at it several times. I've even thought about working on it. But there always seems to be something else that needs to be done.

You know, like that thing I get paid for! Not that I'm complaining, mind you, because my "job" really is a lot of fun. (I put that in quotes because it really doesn't feel like a job, or work. It's going to parties!)

I've also found myself scouring the planet in search of tiny rhinestones. Apparently they've gone out of fashion. True, they're quite popular for scapbooking, but those all tend to be self adhesive. I don't want self adhesive. Plus, they're incredibly expensive! Sort of defeats the purpose.

Craft shop? No.

$2 store? No.

Warehouse? No.

Online? No. No. No. And... yes, but the shipping is ridiculous. Honestly, $5 for a bag of rhinestones and $30 for shipping said bag? I don't think so!

I had just about given up when...

BLING!

Aren't they perfect?

Oh, joy of joys!

Savior of sanity!

Filler of crafty needs!

Ok, so they're not rhinestones. It's actually a tiny bag of confetti.

I had no idea I was actually looking for confetti, not rhinestones. These are perfect for-

You almost got me! I almost gave away the surprise. Sorry, it's not going to be that easy. It's just too great to ruin the surprise.

Plus, this way you may actually come back to find out what I'm rabbiting on about.

Sneaky sneaky me.

Oh! The other thing that managed to tear me away from working more on my beading: THIS. My son and I watched the movie the other day, and I thought, "That would make for an amazing burlesque dance!" Add it to my choreography to do list!

The first one was just practice

2011-05-31T10:16:00.000+12:00

I've started the black and gold beaded sash again, this time with enough beads to finish- I hope.

This time I'm using all the same size bead.

I managed to finish about 7 inches of this strand while watching a movie with my son who had a day off from school. And then, when I got up to take the dvd out of the player, there was a horrible noise. A noise I hate more than any other.

It was the noise of beads flying across the countryside.

I'm not sure what he was thinking. I don't know if he saw the bead tray and made a conscience decision to sit on it, or if he wasn't paying any attention at all and just plopped himself down. All I know is that it took 2 hours! Two whole hours to sort out the mess of tiny black and gold seed beads throughout my couch! My couch that has black and gold running through it so those beads blend it really well.

I'm sure there's still a pile of them somewhere in the recesses of couch cushions and throw pillows. But my eyes went cross eyed in the search. While my son asked for a snack, a drink, is it time to go to the gym yet? I'm cold. I'm hot. Aren't you done yet? You said you'd watch the movie with me! What are you doing? Can I have milk? Tell the cat to stop staring at me! My toe hurts. What are you doing? How long is that going to take? What's for dinner? What are we going to have for dessert? Do we have cookies? Can I stay home from school tomorrow? Why is the dog barking? Can I play on the computer? Why not? When's dad coming home? How long until my birthday? What time is it?

Who knew motherhood was so glamorous?

Happy crafting!

Whirlwind

2011-05-30T09:10:00.000+12:00

Wow! I'm still trying to catch my breath from this past weekend. Busy busy busy!

And it just keeps going! My son is having a day off from school today, so I'm left to entertain him. Unfortunately, there's about a million errands that we have to get through. So, I'm going to take a deep breath, put my head down, and get the errands done as quickly as possible. I see a lot of bribing in my near future!

As you might have guessed, not a lot of progress was made over the past few days craft wise. It was, however, very valuable planning time!

Each month, Steve and I have a date night. One night, out of the house, no kids, where we actually get to be a couple. For the last few months, our monthly date night has been going to the Cabaret performance in Wellington. An awesome show! June, however, will be ever so slightly different.

One of the things that draws us together is a mutual love for a little classic movie called The Rocky Horror Picture Show. And in June, the Embassy Theatre in Wellington is showing it again!

If you've never been to a RHPS theatre performance, you should. People get dressed up- the more extravagant the better- and really get into the character of the evening. For about 3 hours (with all the pomp and circumstance) a group of strangers come together to share a beautiful, open minded experience. When you begin to feel like we're all alone and modern society has effectively isolated each individual, an experience like a RHPS showing makes you realize just how connected we all are.

What's this got to do with crafting? Well, I ordered Steve's costume, because it's a bit beyond my sewing skills. I'm beginning to practice the makeup for him. And I've got the design for my costume in my head. One of my errands that needs to be done soon is to get some material to make said outfit.

I won't need much!

Oh Rocky!

Happy crafting!

Flutterby

2011-05-28T11:21:00.000+12:00

Well, the bad news is, the craft store didn't have the beads I needed to finish Santa's sash.

The good news is, look at the pretty bracelet!

I still have plan B, but plan B has been demoted to plan B.2, possibly plan C. I have a new plan B.

In the meantime, though, today is the last Friday of the month which means it's Cabaret night! Woo Hoo!

Of course, this also means that I really should finalize my outfit for the occasion. Lucky me, the other good news is that I found a few extra little treasures at the craft store.

I've decided I want a decoration for my hair.

This black rose pin will serve as a good basis. Now, sometimes a pin will work quite well for a hair decoration. If you use a hair band to tie your hair up, you can attach a pin to the band.

I have short hair, however, so that's not really an option for me now.

So, first task is to remove the pin back. It's a bit frightening how a commercial pin can be so easy to dismantle!

These little hair clips are invaluable! They're also a bit tricky to find. Although I have seen them in wig supply shops. Apparently they're quite good for securing wigs.

I have yet to try that.

I used straight pins to hold one side of the clip in place while I sewed the other side down.

Important note! Before beginning to sew, make sure your clip is facing the right way!

When I sewed the clip on, I cam up through the bottom petals as close to the center of the flower as possible.

It's a bit hard to see, but that's kind of the point. If it were apparent, it wouldn't look good.

This is the clip sewn on.

You can secure the threads with a small amount of glue or clear nail polish. It just helps ensure that the knots won't come undone.

I'm a tiny bit obsessed with butterflies at the moment. This happens about every other year or so.

I'm always addicted to glitter, though!

To attach the butterfly, I took one stitch into the petals and tied the bug on. It's not like it's under a lot of stress, so I'm pretty confident with one string holding it in place.

Ta-da!

It's a grand topper for a grand evening!

Happy crafting!

Yes, Virginia

2011-05-27T10:11:00.000+12:00

I hit a bit of a stride today.

I finished sewing on all the fur trim.

Thank goodness.

It looks lovely, and it's not actually hard to attach, but I do get tired of having short black hairs in my mouth.

Get your mind out of the gutter. This is Santa! A childhood icon! A symbol of all that is innocent and good in the world!

Besides, he has white hair.

Anyway, I put his jacket on.

Secured it with a couple of stitches so that it doesn't move around too much.

That look is one that says: GIVE ME HAIR!

Santa will have to wait a little longer for that. First I want to get some of the details on his coat finished.

Starting with the dreaded sash.

When I got the silver cord ~~cop out~~ alternative sash, I also picked up a gold one. You know, just in case.

I'm still saving this for plan B.

Those of you paying attention may recognize the beginnings of my favorite beading stitch. I'm using black seed beads for the inside, and 2 sizes of gold beads for the outside.

Progress shot.

Remember to go through the last 3 beads plus the one just added.

This is going to make a stunning belt!

If I can find more beads.

Yeah, I ran out of the large gold beads. The bad news is: this is only big enough to go around 1/2 of Santa. The good news is: if I can't find more beads I still have plan B ready to go, this is the perfect size for a bracelet, and I have a coupon for the craft shop.

Three good to one....not so good. And tonight is Burlesque. And there's chocolate in the house. And.... I think, despite the rain, the cold, and the cramp in my chest, today is going to be a good day!

Happy crafting!