Mod Podge Rocks!

Outdoor chair gets a brilliant makeover.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sat, 19 May 2012 19:35:00 +0000

It's not often that I get to see projects I feature in real life. But I recently visited Vivienne from The V Spot and got to see her outdoor chair revamp. It looks as good in real life as it does in the pictures! It might have something to do with the fact that she picked great colors (love the modern fabric). I'm proud to say that a year after her post it's holding up fantastically. Win all the way around! Visit Viv to see how she did it.

Turning the dog's chew toy into a chair at The V Spot

Art spheres.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sat, 19 May 2012 11:30:00 +0000

I'm excited to share this project with you because it's so unique. What are these, you ask? Art spheres! They are unique balls of wonder (bet you haven't heard that term before) - balls covered with different materials and textures to create a interesting home decor display. What I love about this project is that it got my creative juices turning. What else can I cover balls with?

If you are done laughing, visit Taylor to get the tutorial. I'm now inspired thanks to her.

Art spheres at Taylor Made

Formula can revamp into pencil cup.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sat, 19 May 2012 03:15:00 +0000

You may have a can leftover from something - and if you do, you should make it into a cute pencil cup like Diana did. You may notice a little fancy touch I like to call polka dot paper, which makes it cute, fun and a great gift. In fact, this might be the perfect teacher's gift for the upcoming end of the year. Add some candy and "bam!" you're done. Let Diana show you how it's done.

Old can from drab to fab at The Girl Creative

Snazzy shoe re-do.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Fri, 18 May 2012 19:37:00 +0000

These shoes remind me of a little show I like to call Mad Men - does anyone else get the same vibe? No surprise because Jess from Mad in Crafts re-did them, and she loves Mad Men (did you see her recent series?). She did such an amazing job that you won't believe that these were RED and that someone wore them with pantyhose. Okay, I made that last part up, but Jess really did completely turn these shoes around. Visit her blog to get the full tutorial.

DIY shoe redo at Mad In Crafts

Make a Mod Podge charm bracelet.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Thu, 17 May 2012 19:22:00 +0000

Everyone needs a great collection of spring and summer jewelry, and you are no exception. So, you take a peek at this bracelet from Carolyn. It's cardstock Mod Podged with rice paper that has leaves pressed into it, and the result is so pretty and delicate. I love the fancy ribbon and jewel twisting. Going to have to give that a try . . . I've got images of a bright summer bracelet running through my head!

Paper and Mod Podge charm bracelet at homework

Personalize a budget keychain.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:30:00 +0000

One of my favorite things to do with Mod Podge is make gift items. Man Podger Walter has come up with a great way to use old wood scraps and make a fancy gift for a friend. One idea that came to mind when Walter showed me this project was a keychain with my blog logo. Wouldn't that be fun? Here's how Walter did it!

------------
Make this cool key chain with any images that you may fancy. I used an image of a fish, because I just love fishing. Why not use images with typography? I am thinking monograms? Names? Images from favorite places? You have so many options!

Step 1: Supplies that you will need:

Assortment of smaller wood pieces, like kid's building blocks or small scraps of wood. I never throw any scrap pieces away!
Screw Eyes
Key chain findings ( got mine from Michaels)
Papers "to your liking"
Mod Podge (I used Hard Coat)

Step 2: Prime the piece of wood with FolkArt, let dry. Lay out the images in the order to how you will decoupage. I used Hard Coat to decoupage and seal the final result. Remember, this is a keychain that will be heavily used, hence a strong sealer is ideal for durability. Let dry.

Step 3: Use an awl to mark center of the top part of the keychain for the screw eye.

Step 4: Attach the screw eye hook.

Step 5: Attach the keychain link to the screw eye using pliers.

Add your keys to this keychain and project completed! I am very pleased with this simple and yet durable item.

I’m participating in the following linky parties: I Heart Naptime, Skip to My Lou, Someday Crafts, Somewhat Simple, Tatertots and Jello, Tidy Mom, Tip Junkie, Today's Creative Blog, Creative Jewish Mom

Chalkboard silverware jewelry organizer.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Wed, 16 May 2012 19:30:00 +0000

It's no surprise that Jen was able to turn an old silverware holder into a jewelry organizer - that is just the way she is. There are so many special touches, including glitter, brands and fabric . . . but what is really amazing is the fact that the entire thing is chalkboard paint so you can write on it. It's not hard either. Visit Jen to see how it was done.

Chalkboard silverware jewelry organizer at Tatertots and Jello

Make a paper mache animal head.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:24:00 +0000

What impresses me most about this unicorn bust is that it's so accurate! I think if I tried to do a bust, it would BE a bust. Such a project takes patience I don't know that I have. But Ashley's post is actually inspiring me to at least try. I'm not sure what animal yet. Do you think a pug face would look good? Probably not. Visit Ashley for the tutorial.

Paper mache animal head at Lil Blue Boo

Motherhood chat tomorrow - DIY teacher gifts!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Wed, 16 May 2012 01:23:00 +0000

Photo by Flickr user Christi @ Love From the Oven

Are you a chatty cathy? I am too! If you love to chat, come join me tomorrow on The Motherhood as we talk about DIY teacher gifts. I'd love for you to join me. I love teacher's gifts - my mother was a teacher for years, and I know how hard all of you work! Teachers definitely deserve appreciation, and simple handmade gifts are a great way to do it!

Here are all the details.
What: A live, all-text Talk on The Motherhood, called Beyond Apples and Mugs: Get Creative with DIY Teachers’ Gifts. We’ll be trading ideas for meaningful, unique and budget-friendly DIY teacher's gifts. Feel free to bring your own ideas and photos to share.
When: Wednesday, May 16, at 4 p.m. ET. We will chat for 30 minutes!
Where: On The Motherhood, right here - http://bit.ly/JfhosA
Who: The all-text chat will be hosted by me! Co-hosting are these creative ladies: Brandie, Journey of 1000 Stitches, Cindy, Skip to My Lou, Jodi, Simply Sublime, and Kim, Crafty Mama of 4.

Please join us. Can't wait to see you there!

DIY mini pallet decor.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Tue, 15 May 2012 19:23:00 +0000

With the popularity of pallet art, it's tempting to bring one of those big, bad boys into your home and decorate it. But what if you don't have the room? But you still want the look? This idea from Kari at UCreate is brilliant - make mini pallets with craft sticks! You can use these for home decor or gifts . . . they make me squeal because they are so cute. Visit Kari to try it yourself.

DIY mini pallet decor at UCreate

The one inch punch papered frame.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:46:00 +0000

I may or may not have an obsession with one-inch punches. Okay, who am I kidding, I do have an obsession with them! I call this project the one inch punch frame. And you beginning Mod Podgers will want to know about this project too - because the circles of paper used are so small, you can practice working with Mod Podge and not worry too much about wrinkles. This project also makes the perfect budget gift, and you won't believe how quickly you can make it. Here's how it's done.

Gather These Supplies

$1 wood frame
Acrylic paint to coordinate with your paper
Mod Podge Gloss
Scrapbook paper
1" scallop punch
Decorative sticker
Paintbrush
Craft knife

Paint your frame with the color of your choice. Give several coats until it's covered and let dry. I painted the entire back but not the entire front, since the paper was thick enough that you can't see through it when Mod Podged.

Punch several scalloped circles out of paper - and I mean several - and put them in a pile. Use a few different papers or scraps that coordinate.

Starting in one corner, use the Mod Podge and paper and layer over the entire frame. You don't need to let anything dry - just keep layering. Once it's layered over the entire top, then let dry.

Give your frame a coat of Mod Podge over the entire thing. Let dry and then cut off the paper that hangs over the edge with your craft knife. Then apply a decorative sticker.

Proudly gift or display in your home.

The Avengers inspired quote printables.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Mon, 14 May 2012 19:28:00 +0000

Ever since I did my Lorax printable I have become obsessed with stripes and quotes on printables. And the recent release of The Avengers got me motivated to do more! Yes, we are a comic book movie family - I LOVE them. Growing up with four brothers will do that to you! I'm a huge action adventure kind of gal, so these printables were fun to make. I hope you enjoy them. They are inspired by Thor, Hulk, Iron Man and Captain America. Don't be afraid to print them up for parties and kids' rooms, but also for the office. Nothing says "don't touch my Diet Coke in the work fridge" like a Thor printable!
Thor Hulk Iron Man Captain America

The Alice Hansen family fund.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Mon, 14 May 2012 14:16:00 +0000

At the end of last week I got some news that really surprised me and shook me up. My friend Heidi from Honeybear Lane lost her sister-in-law Alice at the age of 33 due to complications from childbirth. This reminded me of a prior event when I first started my blog that was also shocking. Alice left behind her husband (Heidi's brother), two boys and a brand new baby girl who was only a week old. When these things happens there are no words, and the only thing you can do is remember how precious life is. I can't imagine the difficult time that Heidi are her family are going through.

There are two things I wanted to share with you in regards to this tragedy. First, Lara from Less Cake More Frosting made this free printables to celebrate Alice's life. She had a PhD in music and was a gifted pianist, so her passion was captured in these images. You can download them here.

Secondly, I encourage you to donate to the Alice Hansen Memorial Fund. Heidi's brother just recently graduated from college, has no job and now has three children to raise on his own. That is a tough proposition even when someone has the financial means - I can't imagine being in that situation and also needing to find work. Every little bit helps. Just visit Heidi's blog and look in the sidebar to contribute. Thank you for your support in this time of tragedy.

DIY vintage bottle labels.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:31:00 +0000

Are you looking for some vintage-y labels? But you don't have the vintage nor do you have the labels? Never fear - you can make your own, with scrapbook paper and stamps. I know, I'm surprised too. But Angie figured out a smart and pretty way to do it, and she gets bonus points for incorporating Mod Podge. You'll definitely want to check out her tutorial below.

DIY vintage labels at The Country Chic Cottage

Tangerine Tango wood bangle.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sun, 13 May 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I really love using dye on wood, and I forget until I see a project that uses it how much I like it. Given that Tangerine Tango is the color of the year, that I love stripes, and how much I like orange, I think I need to make one of these immediately. The secret ingredient (Mod Podge) is used to seal the bracelet and keep the color bright. So fun, and a great gift. It's easier to make than you think - just visit below to find out how to do it.

Dye up some sweet stripes on a wood bangle at The Rit Blog

Bird house key hooks.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sat, 12 May 2012 19:30:00 +0000

Sometimes I sneak a craft in here that isn't made with Mod Podge, but you could make it with Mod Podge. This is one of those crafts. You see, I love the birdhouses that you can get for $1 at the craft store, and I think it was such a smart idea to add hooks for keys. Use a little paper or washi tape and throw some Mod Podge onto them and you are good to go!

Bird house key hooks at Torie Jane

Moss and pea balls.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Sat, 12 May 2012 11:22:00 +0000

Let's face it, I'm not the most sophisticated when it comes to home decor. A Hello Kitty toaster and snowglobe collection aren't going to be getting me any design show recognition. While I might have my own, um, "unique" style, I do appreciate a more natural, upscale style like Kim's from Sand and Sisal. She's great at beautiful home decor DIYs with an outdoor twist, and these moss and pea balls are the perfect example. They also add a pop of color, and I can definitely appreciate that. Visit Kim for the step-by-step.

Pea and moss balls at Sand and Sisal

Trompe L'oeil cupcake stand and printable.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:43:00 +0000

Did you know that "trompe l'oeil" comes from a French phrase meaning "to trample cupcakes?" Um - I just made that up, haha! It is French, but refers to deceiving the eye and giving something a faux three dimensional look. These black and white paper pieces give this cupcake stand an almost cartoonish look, but in a fancy way, and I love the contrast on raw wood. You can make this yourself and even get a free printable for the trompe part. Just visit the tutorial below.

Trompe L'oeil cupcake stand DIY with free printable at Oh Happy Day

Big impact artwork.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

If you were trying to make me love you, big artwork, well . . . it worked. Let's face it - large artwork is cool, but it isn't necessarily cheap. It can also be intimidating to mount a huge poster onto a canvas with Mod Podge - even I would have a hard time. Heidi has found a solution to both. Her art doesn't break the bank, and it's also collaged so that you don't have to do it all at once. Do you want to know what I'm talking about? Visit Heidi to learn more.

Big impact artwork at Hammer Like a Girl

Industrial work table with book pages and Mod Podge.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Thu, 10 May 2012 19:28:00 +0000

When I first saw the words "industrial work table" my first thought was "the fancy word for the table in the garage that has a layer of dirt and also everyone leaves their bike helmets and used coffee mugs on top of it." Turns out that an industrial work table has a unique shape and a strong form, and also happens to look fantastic with book pages Mod Podged on top. It's sophisticated and modern so would look fab in several different styles of decor. What do you think? Would you book page a table?

Industrial work table with vintage dictionary top at Pretty Handy Girl

Wall art - 20 ways to Mod Podge a canvas.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Thu, 10 May 2012 11:22:00 +0000

Are you looking for some great ideas for Mod Podging a canvas? I've pulled several together for you. The truth is, I love Mod Podging on canvas and making wall art. It's a blast, and so easy. I just have a few tips: 1) use enough Mod Podge; be liberal and 2) flip over and smooth from the back, inside the frame. Besides that, you are good to go. Now enjoy!

Charley Harper wall decor

Photo wall art portrait display at Sugar Bee Crafts

My Mod podge art at Mom Spark

What to do with your kids' art at Cheeky Kitchen

Fat quarter nursery wall art at Sweet C's Designs

My continuing pursuit of nice wall art

Flower wall art at Creative Passage

Paper circles canvas at Spying on the Swinneys

Family rules at Tatertots and Jello

French fruit wall art at Crafts By Amanda

How to make inexpensive artwork at In My Own Style

Freedom bird mixed media at A Creative Life

I love you at Deb Schwedhelm Photoblog

Doily wall art

Sunday's wall art at what's scrapping

Mod Podge canvas art at The Creative Paige

Growing in unity at Kool n' Krafty Mom

DIY Mod Podge wall art at live tres chic

Painted pear canvas

Clever art with paper scraps at Better Homes and Gardens

Craft stick puppet theater.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:30:00 +0000

I squealed when I saw this puppet theater by my friend Amanda. It's hard to say what my favorite part is, but I really love the hair that is the paisley stickers. So funny! I like everything about it, and of course, that it uses Mod Podge. There are so many fun details that you have to visit Amanda to see how it was made.

Craft stick puppet theater at Crafts By Amanda

Fancy Mod Podged clay pot.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Wed, 09 May 2012 11:30:00 +0000

Hi, I'm Amanda! I blot at Ninth Street Notions. I share crafts, DIY and recipes for those of us who are not naturally crafty. We just like pretty things.

You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Now, onto the project!

This cute little pot makes a simple project for a great gift. First, gather your materials: one terra cotta pot, one sheet scrapbook paper and Matte Mod Podge.

Measure around the outside of the top edge of your pot.

Measure the width of this edge, too. Mine ended up being about 19"x1". Cut strips of scrapbook paper to fit this. Because you are trying to work around a circular edge, you will need smaller strips. For example, 4"x1". This will make it easier to create a smooth edge.

Mod podge your strips around the top edge of the pot. Overlap the ends of your strips. Yes, there will be a slight edge to that. No, it won't look bad. At least I don't think so. Go nice and slow. It's tricky to make sure it doesn't get all wrinkly. Use Amy's tips here to keep it wrinkle-free. Let it dry. Give it a couple of top coats to seal it. Then fill your pot with something wonderful to give. You might not want to pot a plant in it, so as not to ruin your beautiful Mod Podge work. However, a mason jar filled with flowers fits beautifully:

Or my personal favorite: candy!

Thank you so much for letting me share this easy project with you!
----------

Thank you Amanda, so much, for sharing your tutorial. Mod Podgers, please visit Amanda at Ninth Street Creations for tons of budget crafting ideas and inspiration.

Easy garden markers.

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Tue, 08 May 2012 19:26:00 +0000

These little garden markers are so cool - and the process looks like someone could have made them on the set of "Survivor." With the little rope and the sticks and stuff? Totally. The Mod Podge part is the little bauble at the top, and if you use Outdoor Mod Podge, you'll be good to go for the rest of eternity. Or at least until you get voted off of the island.

Garden markers at Free Range Chick

Customize your sunglasses - two ways!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Anderson) — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:37:00 +0000

I have to use prescription sunglasses, which is one of the downfalls of being a glasses gal. It sucks because I love those cheapy pairs that are big and cute, and I want like 500 pairs of them. Shannon from Madigan Made is a sunglasses collector, and she's figured out away to embellish them - on the cheap! Here's her tutorial so that you can embellish your sunglasses, too.

---------------
I’m a big fan of cheap-o sunglasses! I own lots of them. Why do I have so many? Well, it is partly because I like choices… but primarily it is because I have a reputation for breaking or losing my sunglasses.

For that reason, I often check out the sunglasses rack when I’m at the dollar store. The selection is OK and I occasionally find a pair or two that fit me. I have to admit that the styles there are usually pretty basic. But for a dollar, I can’t complain!

But recently I thought, “Why not jazz up the glasses with something to make them look a little more customized?” The side temples of the sunglasses seemed to be begging for embellishment. Mod Podge comes to the rescue, again!

So, I want to show you how I crafted two pairs of decorated sunglasses in two ways.

One pair is made with fun striped scrapbook paper. The other was given a heavy dose of glitter! Let me show you how I made them . . .

To make the striped pair of decoupaged sunglasses

Step one: Gather a few supplies. You will need: a piece of scrapbook paper, a pencil, a pair of scissors (or craft knife), a foam brush and some Mod Podge (Satin formula and Dimensional Magic).

Step two: Cut out paper to cover the temples. Trace the shape of the temples and then carefully cut out the paper with scissors. You may need to go back and trim and shape the paper a little so each one fits neatly on each side.

Step three: Adhere the paper to the sides. Brush a coat of Mod Podge onto the outside of each temple. Press and smooth the paper down on top. Allow the glue to dry thoroughly.

Step four: Cover with Dimensional Magic (DM). Bend one of the temples horizontally so it rests as level as possible. Place a piece of scrap paper underneath it to catch any drips. Starting at one end, slowly and carefully cover the paper with Dimensional Magic and avoid bubbles. Use a rag to wipe up any glue that spills over the edges. Allow the DM to dry completely (typically overnight) and repeat on the other side.

TIP: If you haven’t worked with DM – you should know that it is a cloudy glue that dries crystal clear. It is VERY thick and can be applied on surfaces to add dimension and a resin-like finish. I do suggest practicing on a test surface so you can get the feel for how the material spreads and coats things before attempting a project like this one.

To craft the glittered sunglasses

Step one: Gather supplies. You will need: Mod Podge (i.e. Satin formula), a foam brush and fine brown glitter. (I received this glitter as a part of a recent sponsored crafty challenge and had it left over . . . I love Martha Stewart glitter!)

Step two: Glue down the glitter. Spread a coat of Mod Podge onto just the temples of the sunglasses. Liberally sprinkle your glitter to cover the sides. Allow the glue to dry and shake off any excess sparkle.

Step three: Add a couple protective coats of decoupage. Brush at least 1-2 more coats of Mod Podge over top of the glitter (allowing each coat to dry in-between). This will protect the glitter and keep it from spreading all over you. (I like sparkle… but not in my make-up!)

And there you have it… two dollar store sunglasses customized with a little decoupage magic! I think the decorated side panels add ‘just enough’ cute detail to the sunglasses. The creative options with colored paper or glitter are endless!

It’s been fun wearing the sunglasses this spring. People don’t believe I only paid a dollar for each pair!

So, if you are like me ~~and often break stuff~~ and can appreciate the need for lots of fun sunglasses . . . be sure to pick up inexpensive ones and craft your own custom pair of sunnies!

Don't forget to follow Madigan Made on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.