"Lines Across"

4 Simple Button Crafts

2013-05-20T12:17:00.001-04:00

A while ago, I posted this collection of button crafts. I finally got around to making some of them myself, like these button magnets and button bobby pins.

There are so many things you can make with just buttons and glue. You can use a hot glue gun or super glue for these projects, especially if you're looking for an instant adhesive. However, if you're looking for a permanent solution, you should use epoxy glue like E-6000 when attaching buttons to metal surfaces. It will take a long time to dry, but it will adhere very well, and the buttons won't pop off like they will if you just use a hot glue gun.

Speaking of glue, have you ever been to This to That? This amazing and simple website helps you know what kind of glue to use when attaching one kind of surface to another.

1. Button Bobby Pins

HOW TO: Attach buttons to bobby pins with pad with E-6000 or similar glue.

2. Button Fridge Magnets

HOW TO: Attach buttons to magnets with E-6000 or a hot glue gun.

3. Button Earrings

HOW TO: Attach buttons to earring backs with E-6000 or a similar glue.

4. Button Bookmarks

HOW TO: Attach buttons to bookmark paperclips (I got these from Pick Your Plum) with E-6000 or a similar glue.

Have you made anything with buttons? Where do you find cute and interesting buttons?

Monday Funday #18 - A Creative Link Party

2013-05-19T19:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Monday Funday!

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living //

& our newest co-host:

An Extraordinary Day

Here’s the deal, we decided it would be FUN to add a 6th rotating hostess to the Monday Funday crew! That’s 6x the exposure! So, ONE crafty link party extravaganza will happen on SIX blogs. Plus, each week one of us will choose projects to feature on all six blogs.

We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. You can follow the Monday Funday party tweets at #MondayFundayParty !

This week’s features are being picked by Jamie over at C.R.A.F.T. and Really Awesome Costumes!

You can follow Jamie lots of ways, if you'd like:

Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest // Instagram // BlogLovin // Google +

Now for 10 clever DIY ideas found from lasts weeks Monday Funday Party!

1. Stump turned side table

2. Egg carton garden markers

3. Fabric pulls on furniture

4. Basket turned pendant light

5. How to write with sparklers and take pictures

6. A command center on kitchen doors

7. Pallet herb garden

8. Twig wreath

9. DIY herb garden

10. Tray makeover

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Blueberry Bush Color Palette

2013-05-18T17:13:00.001-04:00

Nature Inspired Color Palettes - Week 1

Nature is such a wonderful inspiration for art and design. I love looking at color palettes people create from photographs, like the beautiful ones at Design Seeds, and I've used them in a lot of projects from home decorating, to blog design.

I'm starting a new series that I'll post weekly on Saturdays, and turning it into something of a challenge for myself to post a new color palette each week for a whole year. I would also love it if any of you wanted to join me, even just for a week.

Here's the basic idea: Take a picture that you yourself have taken of something in nature. It's ok if there are other things in the pictures like a lighthouse, but the challenge is to choose all of the colors for your palette from purely natural aspect of the photograph. I love using the little dropper tool to select colors from my photos. It's amazing sometimes what colors you find, and how you start to look at objects from a new perspective.

I took this first picture a few weeks ago when I went blueberry picking with my family.

Enjoy Natural Beauty this Summer with Tree Hut

2013-05-16T20:00:00.001-04:00

When I first started doing jewelry and nail tutorials, I noticed something about my hands. My close up pictures showed just how dry my hands were, and once I could see it I started to really feel it too. As a creative person, and a mom of a 2 year old and a 3 year old, I wash my hands a million times a day, which of course really dries them out. It feels like my regular lotion just isn't enough to fix it.

Continue Reading Here

How to Make No Sew Muslin Gift Bags

2013-05-16T13:53:00.002-04:00

I know I've mentioned before that I do not know how to use a sewing machine. Learning to sew is definitely one of my goals for myself for the near future, but in the meantime, I need to find other ways of making things with fabric.

These muslin gift bags are quick and easy to make, although the glue does need time to dry. I'll share how I made these gift bags without a sewing machine. You can follow exactly with how I made these, or use the general idea to make some in your own size and shape.

What you need:
1. Muslin Fabric
2. Fabric Fusion
3. Twine (or colorful Bakers Twine would look great)
4. Fray Check (Optional)
5. Scissors
6. A Ruler

What you do:

1. Gather your supplies. Cut strips of muslin that are 5 inches by 14 inches, or 7 inches when folded over. You can make any size bag you want, but remember that the final bag will be a lot smaller than your original dimensions. (Optional: use fray check along the edges of your fabric.)

2. Lay a long piece of twine across the top of the piece of muslin. Place a thin straight line of fabric glue near the top, leaving a lot of room for the twine, then fold the fabric over the twine and press down. Make sure that the twine doesn't get stuck in the glue. If you leave more room at the top, the bag will tie more easily.

3. Repeat the same steps to the other side of the fabric, using the same piece of twine. Make sure that you fold both sides over in the same direction.

4. Flip the fabric over so that the folded over edges are face down. Use a straight edge or a ruler to apply a thin straight line of fabric glue near the edge of your fabric.

5. Stop the glue at the middle fold of the fabric. Repeat the same step on the other side. I made sure that there was exactly 4 inches between these two lines of glue.

6. Fold over pieces of wax paper or plastic that are slightly less than 4 inches wide and place them in between the two lines of glue. This will prevent the glue from spreading to the middle part of the bag. Now fold over the other side of the fabric, and press down the edges. As your bags dry, move the pieces of wax paper and twine around about 4 times at 10 minute intervals. This will keep the paper or twine from getting permanently attached to the bag.

7. Once your bags have dried, remove the paper, and flip them inside out. Tighten the twine, and decorate as you want. I added dark wooden beads.

I had fun decorating a few with TULIP Fabric Markers . They are fun to use and I could play with them all day. I also added some glitter to one of the flowers.

Monday Funday #17 - A Creative Link Party

2013-05-12T19:26:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day. We were out of town last week visiting family and friends. It was a lot of fun, but we're happy to be home.

Welcome to Monday Funday!

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but ~~Five~~ SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living //

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

That’s right, SIX instead of 5 blogs! Here’s the deal, we decided it would be FUN to add a 6th rotating hostess to the Monday Funday crew! That’s 6x the exposure! So, ONE crafty link party extravaganza will happen on SIX blogs. Plus, each week one of us will choose projects to feature on all six blogs.

We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. You can follow the Monday Funday party tweets at #MondayFundayParty !

This week’s features are being picked by our guest co-host, Laura of Finding Home

Well it sure has been fun co-hosting with this lovely and fun group of ladies – it is hard to imagine it has already been 6 weeks! Thank you so much ladies for including me!

This week, my co-hosts have been so gracious to ask me to share a few things about me and my blog.

My blog is all about the journey we are all on to making our homes a reflection of ourselves and our families – and what we find along the way. I share decorating ideas, projects and stories of our lives here in the Hudson Valley of NY.

Our home is traditional in style, with a whole of vintage touches and just a little hit of modern elements.

We have a farmhouse style kitchen that truly is the heart of our home..

I am always decorating a mantel..

Or working on a project…

I would love if you stopped by at findinghomeonline.com

or you can find me here!

(actually, if you would like to subscribe, just hop over to the blog!)

Now to this week’s features – and there were so many beautiful and fun projects!

Playroom Reveal from Love Grows Wild

Dining Room Reveal from Remodelando la Casa

Simple Spring Wreath from Megan Brooke Handmade

Words Watercolor Art from The Fancy Life

Watercolor Silhouette from While Wearing Heels

Door Arrangement from Daisy Mae Belle

DIY Painted Planter from Allons-Y-Kimberly

Spring Update from The Happy Housie

Ikat Painting from Bigger Than The Three of Us

DIY Hanging Planter from Northstory

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter follow:

@thecraftblog follow // @linesacross follow // @uncommondesigns follow // @chesayscheryl follow //@katiegoldsworth follow //@LPatFindingHome follow

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty follow. Use#mondayfundayparty follow and we will retweet you! And now it’s par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Monday Funday #16 - A Creative Link Party

2013-05-05T19:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Monday Funday!

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but ~~Five~~ SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living //

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. You can follow the Monday Funday party tweets at #MondayFundayParty !

We are so excited to be hosting this week's features! We are Trish and Bonnie from the blog, Uncommon Designs. We are always up to something fun, crafty, and yummy. This week we shared a super-delicious Crock Pot Honey Barbecue Chicken Sandwich recipe and we also have been working on a Zipper Pathway in our yard. We'd love for you to come for a visit or find us on one one of our social media channels...

Now you guys were amazing last week! We are always blown always by your incredible talent and this week was no exception. Here are some of our favorite DIY projects and recipes....

Fabric Backed Bookshelves by The Blissful Bee Blog

Rope Curtain Tie Backs by Cottage in the Oaks

Vintage Painted Mason Jars by Live, Laugh, Rowe

Barnwood Coffee Table by Picked and Painted

Washi Tape Plant Markers by Ann-Kay Home

Swimsuit Cake Topper by the Crafty Blog Stalker

Springtime Ripple Stitch Blanket by Happy in Red

Skinny Fruit Dip by My Mommy Style

Spinach Artichoke Turkey Melt by Home Made Modern

Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever by Whistile and Ivy

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter follow:

@thecraftblog follow // @linesacross follow // @uncommondesigns follow // @chesayscheryl follow //@katiegoldsworth follow //@LPatFindingHome follow

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty follow. Use#mondayfundayparty follow and we will retweet you! And now it’s par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

12 Tips for Healthier Hair

2013-05-01T02:00:00.001-04:00

It's worth it to take a little extra time and thought into your hair care, to get great results. Here are some ways that I've found, through personal experience, the advice of a stylist, or a great magazine article to achieve stronger and healthier hair.

1. Let your hair air dry as much as possible. Even if you use a hair drier to dry your hair, let it air dry or as long as possible before you start. Wet hair breaks and stretches much more easily than dry hair, plus your hair drier does some damage to your hair each time you use it. Letting your hair air dry a little bit before you start to blow dry it also minimizes this damage. Gently wrap your hair in an absorbent towel while you do your make-up, get dressed, and eat breakfast, and then come back and dry your hair as the last part of your routine.

CONTINUE READING

Mint, Gold, and Coral: Picking out a Fun Spring Outfit

2013-04-29T12:18:00.003-04:00

I LOVE being a mom more than anything in the world. I never really thought much about having kids, or planned for it until it happened. My husband and I met in high school, dated through college, and got married after graduation. 10 months after our wedding, our son Benjamin was born, and 16 months later, our daughter Lyla was born. The whole thing was like a whirlwind. My life changed so quickly and completely. I went from an adventurous, fashionable college student living in California to a married, stay at home mother of two living in Florida in what felt like the blink of an eye. Now my kids are 2 and 3 years old, and they keep me busier than ever.

CONTINUE READING HERE

Monday Funday #15 - A Weekly Creative Link Party

2013-04-28T19:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Monday Funday! I'm so glad you're here to share your wonderful projects with us. I hope you're not too hungry when you check out the features Cheryl picked out this week.

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but
~~FIVE~~SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living //

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. You can follow the Monday Funday party tweets at #MondayFundayParty !

It’s my week this week to pick features! Can I just say that you are all pure awesomesauce in my book! Oh-my-goodness are you all talented! I am so inspired by you all and I know I can say that we all are so excited that you join us week after week! I’m sending you all high fives and knuckle bumps! Oh who am I kidding…I’m sending you all hugs! I am a hugger! On to the features I had the honor of putting together! Some super fabulous desserts that you will NOT want to miss!

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Cheryl! I blog over at That’s What {Che} Said… This week I shared some super easy and versatile Personalized Notebooks as well as some fun Fabric Basket Liners with an awesome coupon to Jo-Ann’s for the new line of HGTV HOME fabric and trims! I’m certain you will love them as much as I do! Now onto the features!

It’s my first week back from SNAP and I am feeling a bit Bananas so how about some banana desserts?

Banana Pudding Mason Jars from The Wandmaker’s Mother

Banana Cream Pie from A Lil Clareification

Banana Nut Bread from Hickory Trail Blog

Peanut Butter Banana Wonton Bites from Lemon Tree Dwelling

Reese’s Banana Bread Monkey Cake Pops from Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons

Now let’s move onto some Strawberry Desserts! Y-U-M! One of my favorites!

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars from A Pumpkin & A Princess

Strawberries and Cream Crunch Parfaits from Steak-N-Potatoes Kinda Gurl

Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream from Chocolate, Chocolate and More

Strawberry Bread with Lemon Honey Butter from I Should be Mopping the Floor

Strawberry Shortcake Mason Jars from The Wandmaker’s Mother

Strawberries & Cream Trifle from Silver Boxes

Strawberry Cake from Todd & Lindsey

Lemon is such a fresh dessert flavor…here are some awesome ones to try!

Lemon Fluff Freezer Cookies from Shaken Together

Lemon – Raspberry Phyllo Tarts from Lemon Tree Dwelling

Mini Lemon Dream Pies from the Taylor House

Mini Lemon Cheesecakes from Chocolate, Chocolate and More

Brownie & Ice Cream Tower from Dieters Downfall

Oreo Trifle from My Snippets of Inspiration

Skinny Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip from All About the Details

S’mores Shake from Craft Quickies

Triple Chocolate Vanilla Trifle from Just a Girl and Her Blog

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter:

@thecraftblog // @linesacross // @uncommondesigns // @chesayscheryl // @katiegoldsworth //@LPatFindingHome

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty. Use#mondayfundayparty and we will retweet you! And now it’s par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

How to Make a Chevron Braided Bracelet

2013-04-27T14:18:00.000-04:00

I realized it's been a long time since I shared a bracelet tutorial. This chevron style bracelet is fun and easy to braid, and can be turned into so many different styles of handmade jewelry. I used nylon cord from the trimmings section at the craft store for these bracelets. You can also find this in the kids section in multicolored packs. All you need to make these wrap bracelets is two colors of cord and a pair of scissors.

(You can also check out this video tutorial)

What you do:

This is a four strand braid tutorial, basically the same as a fishtail braid.

1. Cut two pieces of different color cord. Make sure they are the exact same width. Remember that you will be folding each piece in half to make the bracelet, so measure accordingly.

2. Put the pieces together and fold them in half. Tie a loop knot in the middle

3. Tape the top loop to your table. This step isn't necessary, but it makes it easier to braid well. Split the four strands in half so that there is one pink and one yellow on each side.

4. Start braiding by moving the yellow strand from the left side to the right side. Make sure you are grabbing from behind and pulling the strand in front of the others.

5. Now grab the second yellow strand from the right and move it to the left side.

6. Grab the pink strand from the left and move it across to the right side.

7. Grab the second pink strand from the right and move it over to the left.

8. Continue alternating between pink and yellow until your braid is as long as you want.

9. Tie a knot at the end of your braid. Now you can wrap the bracelet around your wrist and slip the knot through the original hoop to secure the bracelet.

I especially love this orange and white triple wrap chevron bracelet. Check out some of my other DIY jewelry tutorials:

1. Braided suede bracelets

2. Geometric silver beaded bracelets

3. Braided bead bracelets

4. Scrap Fabric braided bracelets

Monday Funday #14 - A Weekly Creative Link Party

2013-04-22T20:16:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Lines Across! This past weekend I was away at the SNAP creative blogger's conference in Utah. It was a lot of fun, an overwhelming amount of information, and a few long flights. I scheduled this post at the airport yesterday and must have forgotten to hit publish. I'm sorry for the confusion, and I hope you were able to join the party through one of the other amazing blogs.

Welcome to Monday Funday!

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but
~~FIVE~~SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living//

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

That's right, SIX instead of 5 blogs! Here's the deal, we decided it would be FUN to add a 6th rotating hostess to the Monday Funday crew! That’s 6x the exposure! So, ONE crafty link party extravaganza will happen on SIX blogs. Plus, each week one of us will choose projects to feature on all six blogs. We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. You can follow the Monday Funday party tweets at #MondayFundayParty!

In other news:

Jamie, Monday Funday hostess from C.R.A.F.T., is launching a brand new site TODAY! It's called Really Awesome Costumes, all about handmade costumes for babies, kids, adults, couples, groups, and pets! Feel free to submit your own handmade costume and follow Really Awesome Costumes on twitter, facebook, and pinterest!

I'm Katie and I blog over at Creatively Living. I'll be hosting today's party and getting to share my favorites from last week's party!

So here are last week's features!

House Decor DIY's

1. 5 Days 5 Ways Big Girl Dresser Re-make.

2. Laundry Mud Room Reveal by The Happy Housie

3. Fairy Garden by Silo Hill Farms

4. I'm pretty much in love with this Spring Porch by Cottage in the Oaks!

5. This fantastic closet makeover by Decorate With a Little Bit

Food Features

1. Strawberry Cheesecake Bites by Simply Gloria

2. Bumble Bee Pineapple Treat by Meaningful Mama

3. Grilled Corn with Chipotle Butter and Lime Salt by Steak N Potatoes Kinda Gurl

4. Cookie Popcorn by Pint Sized Baker

5. Jalapeno Popper Dip by Cents Less Deals

Style/Tips/Crafts

1. DIY Decorative Air Return Cover by Simplicity in the South

2. Vintage Purse Makeover by The Thinking Closet

3. How to Install Invisible Wall Speakers by Nalle's House

4. Duct Tape Prom Accessories by Dukes and Duchesses. She also has a great tutorial on DIY Duct Tape Flowers.

5. DIY Pom Pom Lampshade Makeover by Uncommon Designs

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter:

@thecraftblog // @linesacross // @uncommondesigns // @chesayscheryl // @katiegoldsworth //@LPatFindingHome

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty. Use #mondayfundayparty and we will retweet you! And now it's par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Ready, set, link up!

20 Beautiful DIY Rings

2013-04-15T21:07:00.002-04:00

1. Clay Chevron Ring via Craftberry Bush

2. . DIY Geode Ring via State of Unique

3. Jewelry Wire Heart Ring via I SPY DIY

4. DIY Knot Ring via Plan B

5. Wrapped Peach Adventure Ring via Bettina's Blog

6. Continuous Miniature Pearl Ring by The Cheese Thief

7. DIY Gold Chevron Ring via A Pair and a Spare

8. DIY Geometric Ring via Why Don't You Make Me

9. DIY Faceted Metallic Ring via Poppytalk

10. Delicate Beaded Ring via Essas Frescurites (Tutorial in Portuguese)

11. DIY Glitter Ring via No. 2 Pencil

12. Knit Bow Ring via One Sheepish Girl

13. DIY Geometric Clay Rins via Kittenhood

14. DIY Map Ring via Instructables

15. DIY Suede Leather Ring via eBeauty Blog

16. DIY Glitter Bow Ring via Delighted Momma

17. Gold and Silver Chain Ring via A Splendid Assemblage

18. Two-toned Neon Ring via Pages from my Moleskine

19. Glittery Leather Star Ring via Carnets Parisiens (Tutorial in French)

20. Ric Rac Rose Ring via The Ribbon Retreat

Monday Funday #13

2013-04-14T19:00:00.000-04:00

This week I'm so excited to be attending SNAP, the creative bloggers conference, in Utah. I'm really looking forward to it, but still not ready :) Things will probably be a little slower than usual around here this week.

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but
~~FIVE~~ SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living//

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

This week, Rachel from Lines Across will be picking the Top 10 Features:

1. Coffee Filter Roses - Curiosita Ellya

2. Office Supply Jewelry - Babble Dabble Do

3. Hutch Makeover - Homework

4. Mystery Braid Bracelet Tutorial - A Pumpkin and a Princess

5. Tulip and Moss Wreath - Girl Loves Glam

6. Stenciled Lyric Pillow - Love Grows Wild

7. DIY Gallery Wall - Simplicity in the South

8. Eggo Birdy Nest Snack - Kitchen Fun with my Three Sons

9. Spring Wreath - Becoming Martha

10. Pink Train Party (Love it!) - from Design Dining and Diapers

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter:

@thecraftblog // @linesacross // @uncommondesigns // @chesayscheryl // @katiegoldsworth //@LPatFindingHome

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty. Use #mondayfundayparty and we will retweet you! And now it's par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Ready, set, link up!

Getting Ready for SNAP (Business Cards, Bangs, Boxes, and a Bag)

2013-04-13T14:56:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to be attending SNAP next week. It will be my first blog conference, and one of my first times to meet other bloggers in real life.

Business Cards

My friend Lauren from The Thinking Closet helped me take some head shots for my business cards a couple of weeks ago. We had a fun day shopping and taking pictures, and I was pretty happy with how this one turned out. (Although I keep making this weird face in a lot of photos where I'm trying to hold my eyes open and smile, and I end out looking like a crazy person.) Lauren is much more natural behind the camera than I am :)

I got my business cards printed at moo.com, and I am SO HAPPY with how they turned out. One of the fun things about MOO.com is that you can upload up to 50 different designs for one of the sides in a set. It was actually hard for me to finish these, because I had so many different fun ideas rolling around in my head, it was difficult to choose just 1 and stick with it. I uploaded my own complete design, but moo.com has a GREAT selection of business card designs. If I wasn't such a DIY addict, I might have just used one of them!

One of the things I like about this design is how I condensed the social media. Fortunately, all of my links and usernames are the same for everything. I also designed Jamie's business cards from C.R.A.F.T. and loved how they turned out. Jamie had a really great idea and vision for the front sides, and I was able to use her current blog design, colors, and fonts for the back side. I especially like the little Texas shaped icon next to her location.

I also printed some mini-cards at MOO.com. They are a lot thicker and better quality paper than I was expecting, and they look great. I love how simple they are, and how conveniently I could keep a few in my purse all the time. Instead of uploading my own design for this one, I used one of the moo.com designs of the watercolor brush strokes that were so beautiful. The idea and colors of this set fit well with my overall design and the bright colors I love to use in a lot of my projects. All of the MOO business cards are high quality, and come in the cutest little boxes and packaging.

Bangs

I had also been growing out my hair, because it's so fun to have long hair to braid and pull back, but after looking through these pictures, I decided to go with a new look... shorter and with bangs. So far I'm really happy with how it turned out, and excited for the fun change. (BTW, do you follow me on Instagram @linesacross?)

A Bag

I realized that I didn't have a good laptop bag or briefcase to take with me to SNAP, so I ordered this beautiful one from Staples.com. It's a part of a line called Women in Business, and it's perfect for what I need. (Plus it's super cute!)

The laptop case is a little bit darker and more ivory than the white in the picture, but I think I prefer it that way. The inside is a beautiful blue. There are two convenient pockets on the front, where I will keep my cell phone handy on one side, and my business cards on another.

There is one narrow compartment perfect for notebooks, folders, and any papers and schedules I'll be carrying around. It would also be great for a tablet or iPad.

I love this protected laptop section that snaps shut. There is also plenty of room for my charger, pens and pencils, and my computer mouse.

Boxes

My husband, Grant is going to be watching our 2 year old (Lyla) and our 3 year old (Benjamin) by himself the whole time I'm gone. I'm so thankful that he is so willing to support me and this trip, so I wanted to do something special for them while I'm gone. I've gathered little gifts for each of them, from little things like coloring books and markers, to bigger things like books and DVDs. I even got my husband an XBOX game to enjoy in the evenings while I'm gone (let's hope he isn't reading this far down this post, haha). I'm going to wrap the presents so that there is one for each of them to open each morning while I'm gone, sort of like an advent calendar. I love using white paper and doodling on the fronts. These monster letters are for my son, Benjamin.

I got Benjamin the book, Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site , and this cool Take-a-part Airplane with an electric screwdriver. I got Lyla this cute purse for $1.50 at the mall, this Dora DVD (Dora Saves the Mermaids), and I got both kids puzzles, stickers, and coloring books at the Dollar Store. I know they're going to enjoy opening a new gift and using it each day and hopefully it will help the days go more smoothly for Grant.

*I was provided the business cards to review by moo.com and the laptop case to review by Staples.com. All thoughts, opinions, and photos are my own.

Geometric Flower Pots and Oriental Lilies

2013-04-11T19:00:00.001-04:00

What are your favorite flowers? I absolutely LOVE lilies. In fact, the entire theme of our wedding was built around gorgeous stargazer lilies. There is something so modern and dramatic about lilies that I just love. We had fondant lilies floating down our wedding cake, and included them in our centerpieces.

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Monday Funday #12

2013-04-07T20:28:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Monday Funday! I'm looking forward to seeing what you all will share this week. Next week is my turn to pick the features :)

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but ~~FIVE~~ SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living//

& our newest co-host:

Finding Home

This week, Jamie from C.R.A.F.T. had the super tough job of picking out the features! Meet Jamie:

Follow C.R.A.F.T. on Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Google +| Instagram

Check out all of the creativity from the Monday Funday party 2 weeks ago!

Garden Hose Wreath/ Dots Wreath/ Egg Carton Wreath

Monster drinks/ Chick cupcakes/ Hostess cupcakes/ Lamb cupcakes

Veggie centerpiece/ Carrot filled vases/ Basketball with cuties/ Chalkboard vase/ Fruit loop vase

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter:

@thecraftblog // @linesacross // @uncommondesigns // @chesayscheryl // @katiegoldsworth // @LPatFindingHome

We always tweet our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty. Use #mondayfundayparty and we will retweet you! And now it's par-tay time!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 6 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Ready, set, link up!

How to Make Money as a Craft Blogger

2013-04-06T13:18:00.001-04:00

Over the next month, I'll be posting in a series about how to make money as a a craft blogger. I'll tell you a little bit more about my blogging story and philosophy, plus you'll get a chance to hear a little bit of advice from other experienced craft bloggers. Today I'm going to start off by describing 5 different ways that you can and I personally have made money as a craft blogger.

1. Ad networks

This is the simplest and easiest way to start making money through your blog. You can sign up for ad networks like Google Adsense, choose your ad sizes, and start making money right away. At first, you will probably only make a few pennies a day, but over time, as your blog grows, this amount can grow to some real cash. I am also a part of the BlogHer ad network, which requires a longer application process. All of the BlogHer ads must be above the fold, but they can have a higher payout. Plus, it's a great community that helps promote you and connect you with other bloggers.

(I use Google Adsense, BlogHer, and Rivit Media)

2. Sidebar Ads

You can sell advertising space on your sidebar. This is another simple way to start getting paid for the page views and visitors you are already getting. I have never promoted sidebar ads especially, and have tried to keep my price for these much lower, because I don't think they always are a good return on investment for bloggers, but are better for companies or shops. If you want to sell sidebar ad space, make sure that you have an advertising or PR page on your blog with some information.

3. Affiliates

I haven't had too much success with affiliate programs, but then again, I haven't been very involved with them either. There is a lot of potential to make money through these kinds of programs, and are a great option if you are sharing something you already like and use. For example, I am an Amazon affiliate, and I often link to products I use in my tutorials on Amazon. I would probably be linking to these products anyways, and it's nice to get an Amazon gift card every so often as a bonus.

4. Sell Something

Whether you open an Etsy shop, or sell things directly from your blog, blogging does give you an advantage and a platform from which to sell. Some people have had a LOT of success selling things they've made in their Etsy shops. You can make 10 of something instead of just 1 when creating a tutorial, and then sell the extras. It's a great way to kill two birds with one stone.

I've had a little success selling digital printables and templates directly from my blog, like these lego gift boxes. What I LOVE about this is that I am able to sell something I've already created at a very low price, and each sale requires no extra time, effort, materials, or trip to the post office from me. The entire process from payment to download is done directly through the ShopLocket widget (which is so easy to use - check out my tutorial here).

5. Sponsored Posts

It took me over a year of blogging before I really started writing sponsored posts: posts where I was paid in addition to receiving free products to review or promote. I was always a little hesitant to get involved with these kinds of posts because I didn't want to come across as too much of an ad, or have people view me as insincere, or start to loose readers. Plus, I never really knew where to find these opportunities, and I was afraid to sign up for a community that would have a lot of requirements or get stuck writing reviews for products that didn't interest me. However, I saw a lot of other bloggers writing interesting and tasteful sponsored posts and really wanted to start doing some myself. Sometimes a company will contact you directly with an offer, but especially if you are new to the game, this is rare. The best way to start writing sponsored posts is to join a group or a community. Here are the groups I've joined, and a brief summary of how they work.

Social Spark - This is a great place to start. You can fill out an application online, and it's really easy. You do have to sync your blog and Google Analytics account so that they can know your page views and stats when showing you to the advertisers. When you're applying, you can give a minimum amount of money you would consider for writing a sponsored post. Then once you've been accepted, you can sign into your dashboard and view leads from advertisers. If you're interested, you can choose to accept a lead or negotiate (ask for more money). Then you will be notified if you are selected for a campaign. There are NO requirements. Just because you join, you don't have to accept any leads if they aren't interesting to you or relevant to your blog. In fact, I am doing my very first post with Social Spark next week, and I'm very excited about it.

Clever Girls - This is another great option for someone newer to blogging and sponsored posts. It works very similar to Social Spark. You apply, then if you are accepted, you can sign into your dashboard to view leads. If you are interested, you can apply for these leads, and you will be notified if you are accepted. I've actually done quite a few posts with Clever Girls and I've been very pleased with them. They also have no requirements or minimums, and are very friendly and easy to work with.

Blueprint Social - Blueprint Social is a smaller group geared primarily towards craft bloggers. It works a little differently, and I except that it is a little bit more difficult to be accepted. If you are accepted, you will be sent newsletters and campaign offers from time to time, and you can apply for ones that interest you through links in the emails. Each blogger is paid a different amount according to your blog's stats and your own experience. I really love Blueprint Social, and have greatly enjoyed the crafty campaigns. It is also a wonderful and supportive little community that I would highly recommend to other craft bloggers.

Pollinate Media - Pollinate Media is a smaller group and works similar to Blueprint Social. They are great for crafty and home decor bloggers, but seem to have a much smaller number of opportunities (although the ones they do have are amazing!). It is also a great and supportive little community that I would highly recommend.

Social Fabric - Social Fabric is a much larger network and community. It offers so many opportunities even beyond sponsored posts that I have only begun to explore. The application process for this group is a little more complex, and the website and community is almost overwhelming. It has taken me a little while to become more comfortable with the website and how it works, and I've been happy with a lot of the shopportunities that I've found through Social Fabric. These opportunities are generally geared towards shopping and product reviews more than crafts, and often require a shopping story with pictures. You are able to join this group and participate in many ways and even be able to view the shopportunities without committing to actually doing any of them. I would definitely recommend Social Fabric to other bloggers, but personally, I'm glad I waited a little longer to join.

It's so easy for your blog to be taken over by too many sponsored posts, and it's terrifying as a blogger to think that your readers will start to write you off as an ad. You need to be careful with your selection, sincere with your review, and tasteful with your presentation.

Be sure to check out the next post in this series:

Tips for Writing Sponsored Posts

A Healthy Surprise (plus ten things you didn't know about me)

2013-04-03T10:14:00.001-04:00

I'm happy to share with you Green Giant's healthy surprise: New Veggie Snack Chips! Now snackers have an option they can feel good about eating.

I got the chance to try the Roasted Veggie Tortilla Chips and the Multigrain Sweet Potato Chips with Sea Salt. I'm a huge fan of anything sweet potato and I love Sea Salt, so naturally I was drawn to these.

Raindrop Stenciled Craft Organizer

2013-03-29T10:24:00.002-04:00

If you know me at all, you know I LOVE geometric shapes and patterns. So of course, when I received this amazing set of Handmade Charlotte stencils full of fun geometric patterns, I was thrilled! Although, how was I supposed to pick just one for this project?

CONTINUE READING HERE

How to Make Pipe Cleaner Bunnies

2013-03-25T16:31:00.000-04:00

I love making pipe cleaner animals ~~with~~ for my kids. They're still a little young to do them by themselves, but they like to help attach the eyes and love playing with the little animals I make. It's been a long time since I shared a pipe cleaner tutorial, like these elephants, frogs, birds, and chameleons.

I made two different versions: one that sits upright and one that leans forward.

What you need:

1. Pipe cleaners

2. Glue

3. Eyes

4. Pom Poms

How to make upright pipe cleaner bunnies (above):

1. Tightly wrap a 12" pipe cleaner around a cylindrical object like a pen or marker. Fold a second pipe cleaner in half and then bend back each side into a letter M (these will be your bunny ears).

2. Stick the letter M pipe cleaner through your coil.

3. Fold over the bottoms of the letter M into little bunny feet. You make have to adjust them a few times until your bunny stands upright.

4. Fold over the ears a little bit, and attach your bunny nose, tail, and eyes with glue.

How to make leaning pipe cleaner bunnies (above):

1. Wrap a pipe cleaner tightly around a pen or pencil to make your coil body. Cut another pipe cleaner in half, and slide it through the bottom of your coil. (This will be the legs.)

2. Bend the pipe cleaners towards each other and fold over the ends into looped feet. These feet are much larger than the first bunny's.

3. Bend the legs forward so that the bunny balances at an angle.

4. Use the other half of your pipe cleaner to make the ears (or use a larger piece for larger ears). Slide the pipe cleaner through the top front coil and bend the ends upward.

5. Fold down the ends into looped ears. Bend them forward a little bit. Also bend the front coil inwards a little bit to cover the face area.

6. Attach a bunny nose, eyes, and tail with glue.

Have fun. Play around with different colored pipe cleaners and pom poms. Add whiskers, bunny teeth, or accessories.

How to make pipe cleaner carrots:

1. Wrap an orange pipe cleaner around something with a point. I used the end of a paint brush. You might need to coil the end more tightly after you take it off of the paint brush.

2. Cut a few small pieces of green pipe cleaners. Wind the ends together, and fold over the tops.

3. Insert the leaves into the top of the carrot and close the top orange coil around it. You can also add a dab of glue before you do this to make it more secure.

And that's it. These would also be a cute addition to an Easter basket. What kinds of Easter crafts do you do with your kids? What color bunnies would you make?

Monday Funday #11

2013-03-24T19:56:00.000-04:00

It's time to share and be inspired at Monday Funday again!

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but ~~FIVE~~ SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What Che Said // Creatively Living//

& our newest co-host:

View Along the Way

That's right, SIX instead of 5 blogs! Here's the deal, we decided it would be be FUN to add a 6th rotating hostess to the Monday Funday crew! Kelly will join our Monday Funday madness for 6 weeks, and then we will choose another awesome blogger who routinely links ups FUN projects to co-host with us for the next 6 weeks. That’s 6x the exposure! So, ONE crafty link party extravaganza will happen on SIX blogs. Plus, each week one of us will choose projects to feature on all six blogs. We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

This week, our new cohost Kelly from View Along the Way is our hostess and feature picker!

It has been SO much fun to be a part of Monday Funday for the past six weeks. It's the little link party that's taking over the world - where else can you get one feature showcased on six blogs? What a pleasure to work with the talented, creative women behind these five killer blogs! I'd love to have ya swing by my blog for a dose of silliness and inspiration as we try to fix up our once beaten-down foreclosure on the TINIEST of budgets, like this laundry room makeover which we completed from start to finish for only $157! (We even painted the floors!)

Or our baby girl's nursery -- completely DIYed from top to bottom, including the DIY lined curtains, pinwheel wall and chandelier makeover. I had no idea what an impossible task it would be to narrow down the features. There were BAZILLIONS of incredible posts... but since Easter is quickly approaching, let's check out a few Eastery treats and crafts you still have time to try!

Easter petit fours @ Apple Valley Girl // Easter Egg Cinnamon Rolls at Jacolyn Murray // Marshmallow Berry Flower Cookies at Mom on Timeout // Easter Bunny Chicken Pot Pie at Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons // Chubby Bunny Krispie Pops at Shaken Together // Sunflower Peeps Cake at Full Price Never // Easter Candy Popcorn at Posed Perfection // Homemade Cadbury Creme Eggs at Butter & Jam

Tulip Door Wreath @ DIY Village // Cupcake Liner Mason Jars @ Uncommon Designs // Twine Ombre Easter Eggs at Detailed Party Mom // Free Printable Easter Subway Art @ How to Nest for Less // Round Petal Kanzashi Flowers at Pumpkin & a Princess // Easy Glitter Chevron Vase at Becoming Martha // No-Sew Felt Bunnies at Happier Homemaker // Herb Garden in a Box @ Nellie Bellie

Subway Map Dresser @ Boxy Colonial // Master Bedroom Makeover at Suburbs Mama // Office/Craft Room Reveal at Cleverly Inspired // Nursery Feature Wall @ Kurtz Corner // Gender Neutral Nursery Reveal at Golden Sycamore // Bathroom Reveal at Lo and Behold Life // Guest Bedroom Reveal at Suburbs Mama // Paper Bag Floors at Domestic Imperfection
Now that is a lot of creativity! If you were featured, please grab a featured button…

We'd love to connect with you on twitter!

@thecraftblog // @linesacross // @uncommondesigns //@chesayscheryl // @katiegoldsworth // @KELLYatVATW

A few things to remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We'd love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 5 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Monday Funday #10

2013-03-17T19:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Monday Funday! I am overwhelmed every week by how many amazing projects are shared here. It really is a total overload of inspiration.

Every Monday you can link up your crafts / DIY Ideas / recipes to not just one, but SIX awesome blogs:

C.R.A.F.T. // Lines Across // Uncommon Designs // That’s What {Che} Said // Creatively Living //

& our newest co-host:

View Along the Way

That’s right, SIX instead of 5 blogs! Here’s the deal, we decided it would be be FUN to add a 6th rotating hostess to the Monday Funday crew! Kelly will join our Monday Funday madness for 6 weeks, and then we will choose another awesome blogger who routinely links ups FUN projects to co-host with us for the next 6 weeks. That’s 6x the exposure! So, ONE crafty link party extravaganza will happen on SIX blogs. Plus, each week one of us will choose projects to feature on all six blogs. We will also be sharing links throughout the week on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

This week's features are brought to you by Trish and Bonnie from Uncommon Designs...

Bonnie and I loved going through all the fabulous links this week. You guys make the job of features incredibly hard with all your talent! Take a look at the projects we chose for features this week....

Bunny Silhouette Dyed Eggs by Create. Craft. Love / Bunny Bar by Clean and Scentsible / Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Eggs by The Cards We Drew / Felt Bunny Family by While Wearing Heels / Easter Egg Rolls by JacOlyn Murphy / Dyed and Speckled Easter Eggs by Homework / Bunny Boxwood Wreath by Simplicity in the South / Silk Tie Dyed Eggs by Girl of 1000 Dreams

Barn Door Family Sign by The Vintage Estate / Knock-Off Industrial Side Table by The Golden Sycamore / Painted Staircase by Design OCD / Spring Mantel by Love of Family and Home / Kids Step Stool by Domestic Imperfection / Craft Room by The Potters Place / Thrifted Picture Frame Chalkboard by The Winthrop Chronicles / Happily Ever After Sign by My Love 2 Create

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pound Cake Stacks by Shaken Together / Meringue Mini Cakes by Pint Sized Baker / Macaroon Nests by Lemon Tree Dwelling / Cinnamon and Sugar Donuts by Butter and Jam / Carrot Patch Cake by the Partiologist / Empty the Fridge Breakfast Bake by Semi Homemade Mom / Copycat Turkey O'Toole by Will Cook for Smiles / Greek Salad Pizza by I Knead to Bake

Repurpose your Pashmina by Haberdashery Fun/ Polka Dot Vase by Create and Babble / Heat Embossed Alphabet Rocks by Thrive 360 / Mason Jar Twine Holders by A Casarella / Rainbow Peasant Dress by Craftiments / Pet Silhouette Art by Paint Speckled PawPrints / Rope Vase by A Bushel and a Peck / Washi Tape Picture Frame by Girl Loves Glam

Grab a FEATURED button if you were featured here this week or in the past:

If you don’t already, follow us all on Twitter: @thecraftblog @linesacross @uncommondesigns @chesayscheryl @katiegoldsworth @KELLYatVATW

We will be tweeting some of our favorite features from the party with the hashtag #mondayfundayparty. We would love it if you would join us in tweeting some of the projects that you love. Use #mondayfundayparty and we will retweet you.

Now let’s get onto this weeks party!

A Few Things to Remember:

Please link to a specific post on your blog.
We’d love for you to pin the features, but please click through to the tutorial and pin from the original source!
By linking up to to Monday Funday you are giving the 5 blogs, listed above, the right to feature one of your photos on all of our SM outlets and blogs.
Click on lots of links and leave some comment love on posts you adore! That puts the FUN in Monday Funday!

Delicious Pairings - Some Things Are Better Together

2013-03-15T11:39:00.000-04:00

Have you ever noticed that some things are better in pairs than alone? The two things combine into something new and when it's a good pair, they bring out the best in each other. Peanut butter and jelly. Road trips and good music. Hot chocolate and a snowy day. Coffee and a chocolate brownie.

CONTINUE READING...

Runway Inspired Lace Tip Nails

2013-03-10T21:26:00.000-04:00

There are so many fun trends in fashion this spring, from bold shapes and patterns, to black and white, to lace. When I was given the opportunity to create a runway inspired nail tutorial with Sally Hansen nail products for the spring, I knew I would have trouble choosing just one. When I went to Walgreens to look at the collection, my decision got even more difficult. There were so many gorgeous colors and styles of polish that were beautifully displayed. You can see my Google+ shopping album here.

CONTINUE READING HERE