The Beadings and Buttons of Randomcreative

Friday Feature: new favorite shops

2012-06-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Happy June!

I will have my monthly Top Droppers/Commenters/Shop News up on Tuesday the 5th this month.

Thanks so much to everyone who linked up with me this past week for my Friday Feature link up! Here are just a few of the great finds that were featured. Click on the photos to check out the item listings, blog posts, etc. Can you tell that people are thinking about summer?

My random finds this month are from some of my newest favorite shops on Etsy. Enjoy!

Camera Strap Cover - includes padding and lens cap pocket - Sugar Flower by adivaand3dudesdesign

Personalized Wedding / Anniversary Gift - Custom Date on handforged heart - Pick Your Special Day by
toughhandtwisted

Cat Apron - Moody Cats Black Apron with Front Pockets by emandsprout

GRATITUDE IN ADVANCE 5x7 Inspirational Quote Print (Gratitude Collection) by AgasBoxOfMiracles

Fused Glass Earrings, Gold and Blue Dichroic Stripes, Sterling Silver Wires by JechoryDesigns

Wool Coin Purse Coin Pouch Change Pouch Merino Wool Handmade Zipper Turquoise Blue Bird by napkitten

Handmade Greeting Card - music and tulips by newnanc

What great shops have you discovered on Etsy lately?

I don't like to make a lot of rules for my link ups, but if you link up, please visit and comment on at least one other post. No one benefits from linking up if we don't all support each other. Thanks!

Grab a blog button!

Were you featured in this post? Grab one of these buttons, too!

Where else I linked up today:

May Photo a Day Challenge wrap up

2012-05-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

On a complete whim this month, I decided to participate in the very popular Photo A Day challenge by fat mum slim.

I already have tons of daily content on my blog, Facebook fan page, and Twitter account so I decided to create a Pinterest board for my challenge photos. You can check out the entire board here (or by clicking on the above photo). I'm just sharing a few of the highlights in this post today.

Day 3: Something You Wore Today

I went through a huge thing in high school and part of undergrad where I really loved socks with fun designs. I still have a few (okay, more than a few) pairs that I love.

Day 4: Fun

I finally made the effort to get a photo of us in Milwaukee.

Day 11: Kitchen

I made chocolate chip cookie bars (the classic Nestle recipe) and salad for a little get together that one of Jake's friends organized earlier this month. I love having an excuse to bake.

Day 14: Grass

The grass in our backyard grows ridiculously fast.

Day 15: Love

Of course there are a few pictures of Angel.

Day 18: Something You Made

I have sold out of nearly all of my shell bracelet designs during the last few months. I've been working on restocking them this month.

Day 19: A Favorite Place

You can check out more pictures from this little excursion right here.

Day 20: Something You Can't Live Without

This photo of one of my newest card designs represents two things that I can't live without: crafts and music.

Day 26: 12 O'Clock

Someone else is ready for lunch, too. She knows my schedule.

Again, you can check out the entire set of May photos on Pinterest right here.

My confession about the May challenge: I did complete all of the prompts. However, I did not necessarily take each one on the appointed challenge day. I believe that I got better photos by using inspiration as it came to me than by forcing a photo every day.

Was it tough to participate in this challenge and the Scavenger and Macro challenges? The short answer to this is yes. There are weeks that some of the prompts were more challenging than others or that it was tough to get out to take photos. On the upside, there were other weeks where some of the prompts overlapped and I had a lot of inspiration so things came together more easily.

Was it worth it? Again, the short answer is yes. I like to use as many original photos in my articles as I can. There are several reasons that it's worth it but the biggest reason is that taking this many photos every month greatly increases my general photo stock. It's always a big plus when I can pull something from my files for a current article instead of having to make a point of shooting, editing, and uploading something else or pulling a stock photo from elsewhere online.

I am planning to participate next month. I am also planning to do what I did this month with not forcing photos everyday and only taking time to upload once or twice a week. All of the June prompts are right here if you want to jump in and participate.

What have you been photographing lately?

Newest article:
Fourth of July Drink Recipes: Non Alcoholic and Alcoholic
Looking for older articles? Click here!

10 Things I've Learned From Pinterest

2012-05-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm shamelessly stealing this idea from Urban Heirlooms Style who wrote this post about Pinterest earlier in the month. Enjoy!

1) You can do anything with spray paint.

Source: flickr.com via Pearl on Pinterest

2) Just in case you can't use spray paint, Mod Podge will never fail.

Source: makeit-loveit.com via Kathy on Pinterest

3) Who knew that there were so many ideas for cakes with different colored layers?

Source: glorioustreats.blogspot.com via Jane on Pinterest

4) You can make a fabric or paper wreath for literally any holiday, season, or event.

Source: craftomaniac.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

5) Paint chips are a must have for your craft supply stash.

Source: thehobby-room.blogspot.com via Erin on Pinterest

6) There is nothing that can't be made better with a fabric or paper flower.

Source: icandabble.blogspot.com via Ruth on Pinterest

7) Who knew that decorating for minor holidays like St. Patrick's Day could be so much fun?

Source: hostessblog.com via Cynthia on Pinterest

8) Planning for future events that may not ever happen just became so much easier. Seriously, if you are 15 years old, why do you have a "for my kids someday" board?

Source: daniel-worththewait.blogspot.com via Heather on Pinterest

9) When all else fails, make a casserole.

Source: themenumom.com via Renee on Pinterest

10) Everyone has turned into wannabe decorators.

Source: bhg.com via Karen on Pinterest

What have you learned from Pinterest?

a mystery unveiled

2012-05-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

The distinctive camouflage markings are barely visible through the thick underbrush. Most people pass right by them without even stopping for a second look. The person who is meant to find them is the only one combing every square inch for a tiny glint of metal or sun reflection off of the glass. The thin camouflage piece has a silver key and a bottle with a message attached to it. The bottle holds a seemingly meaningless scrap of paper. Only the intended recipient will be able to decipher its message. This message will lead the recipient to the door that requires the key and that is hiding away the treasuries just beyond it.

The June EBW Challenge is Mystery. You can read more about it here. I love mysteries and was excited about the narrative element that this challenge could include. It took me a couple weeks to put together this concept and then a couple more weeks to create the piece. Putting together the concept was the real challenge for me for this piece. And yes, it does include one of my new bottle charms! I'm excited about that.

Like all of my wrap bracelet/necklace pieces, this can be worn as a bracelet or necklace. Both charms are detachable, giving you the option to wear it with both charms, one charm, no charms, or any other charms of your choosing. While the charms add a substantial presence to the piece, they are extremely light weight.

This piece is available for sale here. As always, if you're interested in something similar but with different colors, charms, size, etc., don't hesitate to contact me. Voting for the June EBW challenge will take place the beginning of June. I will post all of the information about it then. To get a sneak peek at the current entries, search EBWC on Etsy.

What have you been working on lately? Have you taken on any new challenges?

Newest articles:

Summer Greeting Cards: Homemade Card Ideas to Make
Fourth of July Desserts: Easy Patriotic Recipes

Looking for older articles? Click here!

Where I Linked Up Today:

Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro on Monday (5/28/12)

2012-05-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another edition of the photo Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro! I had a lot of fun taking a couple mini field trips in Milwaukee this week to get my shots for these two memes and the May monthly challenge. Enjoy!

1) Beneath Your Feet

Jake doesn't like to feel anything under his feet except carpet and thinks that I'm crazy to do this, but one of the things that I love about summer is getting to feel the grass.

2) Capturing Movement

One of my little field trips this week was to one of the lakeside parks in the north Milwaukee suburbs. I seriously can't believe that it's taken me almost an entire year of living in Milwaukee to visit this location. It will definitely not be that long before my next trip up there.

3) Texture

We take a lot of walks through the VA grounds, but I've been making an effort to bring my camera with me more often lately (as evidenced by the Memorial Day picture and by some of my other hunts), which was my other mini field trip this week. The VA just turned this fountain on again.

4) Face Your Fears

Recently I've started contemplating upgrading to a DSLR camera and finally learning Photoshop. I have avoided Photoshop for a long time, but I'm determined to make this transition within the next year. This will be an overwhelming process for a lot of reasons, but it will be really exciting, too.

5) Currently

We are counting down the days to the end of intern year. Only a little over a month left!

Check out Ashley's blog to see what other people submitted for the themes this week.

Here's my shot for I Heart Macro. I am really proud of this picture. Check out that hint of bokeh!

Finally, don't forget to check out my May Photo a Day Challenge Board on Pinterest. I'm continuing to get that updated at least once a week and will share the highlights from that challenge here at the end of the month. Stay tuned on Thursday for that post.

Where else I linked up today:

Treasury Round Up - 5/27/12

2012-05-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

This past week I was featured in a several beautiful treasuries that are perfect for the end of spring/beginning of summer. Please help me thank the curators who featured my work this past week by visiting their shops and checking out their treasuries.

Linda (PruittDesign) included my Beaded Rope Bracelet - Triple Strand - Purple, Turquoise Blue, Pink in her Backyard Summer Bash treasury. Does this treasury say summer party or what? There are so many fun items here. Check out Linda's Plum Dangling Flower Earrings.

Margaret (SplendidLittleStars) included my Beaded Cuff Bracelet - Easter Morning in her Summer Forests treasury. This is such a whimsical collection! Margaret did an amazing job pulling together the items for this treasury. Check out her HEART T-shirt.

Margaret also included my Button Dangle Earrings - Two-Hole Explosion in her color, glorious color! treasury. Of course I love the mix of bright items here.

Sharla (BeadedTail) included my Button Charm Bracelet - Purple in her Something For You and Your Dog Too! treasury. I love how colorful and fun this collection is. Check out Sharla's Purple Polymer Clay and Swarovski Crystal Sterling Silver Earrings - Plum Drop.

Thanks to those who linked up with me last week! Here are a few of the items that they featured last week. Click on the photos to check out the product listings.

I am really touched by all the people who I have inspired to start their own treasury round ups with awesome shop features and write ups! Please link up with me and grab a button for your own post. I know that not everyone posts these rounds ups on Sundays, which is fine. I will leave this link up open all week.

If you link up, take the time to visit and comment on at least one other post. No one benefits from linking up if we don't all support each other. Thanks!

Saturday Link List: the graduation edition

2012-05-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome another special holiday edition of my Saturday Link List!

I have a handful of articles up for graduation.

Graduations and Graduation Parties: How to Save Money

DIY: Postcard Party Invitations with Microsoft Publisher

10 Gift Ideas for High School Graduation

10 Gift Ideas for College Graduation

Graduation Card Ideas for High School and College: Sayings, Messages, Printables, and More

I did not put together a graduation Pinterest board, but I've simply pulled some resources from the site for you. Enjoy!

Graduation Cupcakes - Cupcake Decorating Ideas from Alissa Roberts

Source: alissaroberts.hubpages.com via Rose on Pinterest

Huge collection of 2012 graduation printables. Water bottle wrappers, candy wrappers, pendants, cupcake toppers, and more.

Source: blog.catchmyparty.com via Debbie on Pinterest

Graduation cap treats from Bakerella

Source: bakerella.com via Kelli on Pinterest

Graduation bookmark favors

Source: didsomeonesaypartysite.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Graduation cap card with free pattern and step by step instructions.

Source: megacrafty.com via Rose on Pinterest

High School Flashback Party Idea...I love retro party ideas!

Source: howdoesshe.com via Rose on Pinterest

Keys to Success" Graduation Party Decor Ideas

Source: celebrationsathomeblog.com via Sara on Pinterest

Graduation Quote Ideas from Martha Stewart

Source: marthastewart.com via Mary on Pinterest

Of course I had to include a med school graduation party idea.

Source: divinepartyconcepts.com via Karine on Pinterest

Create your own link list and grab a button for your post or simply spread the word on your blog.

Did I feature your work here? Grab a button for your blog or web site!

Did you use one of the resources, tutorials, or recipes from my link list? Leave me a link in the comments or send me an e-mail (randomcreative28@gmail.com) with your photos and stories. I would love to post them here.

Stay tuned next week for a brand new set of June recipes!

Friday Feature: graduation cards

2012-05-25T00:30:00.000-05:00

I've found a variety of graduation cards to feature today. Enjoy!

Graduation Card - Congratulations Card - Class of 2012 Card - Geek Card - Blank by maddesign

Funny Graduation Card for Boys, Handmade Graduation Card, Steampunk Graduation Card, Congrats Graduation Card by lstriadesign

Handmade graduation card, quilled, personalized by PaperDaisyCardDesign

Graduation Card, Funny, "Workisms" (COE-G001) by NeatThings

OH the PLACES You'll GO Graduation Card by JerseysFreshest

Graduation card by nancygretch

Of course I had to find a med school graduation card. (There aren't a lot of them out there. Maybe I need to make some.) If you know anyone graduating from any type of graduate program, they fully deserve a card, too!
Custom Graduation card to find... to save... to frame by bluedogcollections

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Where else I linked up today:

2012 Christmas card preview

2012-05-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Yep, I've been plowing ahead with my goal to get some of my Christmas inventory finished ahead of time because we all know how crazy the holiday season can get. Last year I was so busy from November 1 right through Christmas day, and I'm determined to enjoy it all a little more this year. Determined sounds so festive, right? Anyway, I already have a handful of Christmas designs and am slowly putting them together in between other projects.

This was one of my first designs. I started with the dark green and then later made some with the lighter green, too.

I used the handful of larger titles that didn't fit so well in the original design for these cards.

As you can imagine, I had a ton of word scraps left over so I turned them into collages.

I have no idea where I get some of my ideas. One of Jake's favorite parts about living in Milwaukee is Sprecher root beer. We always have Sprecher root beer in the house. I got inspired to make Milwaukee Christmas cards out of the cardboard packaging.

I think it will be a neat addition for my local holiday shows.

I made a set of Dwight Christmas cards. There are so so many great holiday quotes from The Office. It's been so hard to pick just a few favorites.

That quote is from this episode.

I've mostly been focusing on A7 size cards this far, but I will offer some mini cards (approximately A2) that can double as gift tags as well. Among other things, I have a bunch of snow scraps that I'm going to use for some of those smaller cards.

It's hard to believe it, but July is only a little more than a month away! I'm not planning to sell a lot of cards on Etsy for Christmas in July, but I am planning to re-stock my most popular Christmas jewelry designs and launch a few new designs. As we head into June here, I need to start working on that.

Are you thinking about Christmas yet?

Newest articles:

Machine Sewing/Stitching With Paper: Tips, Ideas, and Projects
June Holidays and Special Days: Elementary Classroom Activities, Ideas, and Lesson Plans

Looking for older articles? Click here!

I included this post in Michelle's Delicately Constructed Friday - 5/25/2012.

seeking camera advice

2012-05-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

The time is coming....

I've held out with using a point and shoot camera for a long time now. I've always believed that when you get started with any kind of photography, there is no reason to run right out and buy a high end camera. I still believe this. However, during this past year, I feel like I have completely maxed out what I can do with my point and shoot and that my photography is stagnating. I'm just not sure what else I can learn about point and shoot photography with the camera that I have that will significantly improve my shooting. I could invest in a higher end point and shoot, but if I'm going to upgrade, I feel like I should go all the way and finally jump into this venture with both feet.

With that being said, I am still in the very early stages of research of DSLR cameras and accessories. I'm looking for tips for both camera bodies and equipment. Here are my thoughts thus far.

Camera body: Almost everyone I know who does similar shooting to me (lots of photos for blogs, product photography for an online shop, article photography, and/or some recreational/family shooting) has some type of Canon Rebel. I have been very pleased with my Canon PowerShot and am inclined to stick with Canon. If you own a Canon Rebel, I'm interested in: 1) your opinion of it and 2) whether you think it would be a good fit for me. If you don't but own another body that you think would be a good fit, let me know. I'm not too concerned about specific models at this point, as I most likely won't be making a purchase for another 6 months and there will be new ones available at that point.
Lens(es): I'm sure it's not a surprise that my biggest focus with photography is macro photography. I've heard mixed reviews about the body/lens packages that some web sites and stores offer and would like opinions on that. Share any and all information that you have about your favorite lenses, particularly those that you use for macro shooting.
Camera bag: I know that a lot of women photographers love Jo Totes and Cheeky Lime. I really don't want anything that large. Period. If you have something smaller that you love, do share. Something in a cool color and/or handmade is nice, but a classic black Canon bag is just fine, too.
Camera strap: I understand the importance of having a comfortable strap and don't mind spending a little more to get a high quality, comfortable strap. Do you have one that you really like? I'm all ears.
Memory card: You can laugh at me, but I'm currently using a single 4GB memory card. Honestly it has been plenty of space for everything that I do on a weekly basis. Now that Jake is almost done with intern year and will be getting his life back this summer, we will be taking more trips again, and it would be nice to have some more memory space. We have some reward dollars at Best Buy right now so I may decide to upgrade my card within the next month. I've heard varying opinions about different brands and sizes and am not sure if there's any truth there is to it, particularly for those of us who are not professional photographers.
Photoshop: I seriously have no idea what my hang up is with Photoshop is because I obviously am pretty fearless when it comes to learning new things on the computer. Even the basic Photoshop terminology overwhelms me so I've just avoided it until this point. I feel like part of making this photography jump includes finally buying and learning Photoshop. Do you have any favorite beginner Photoshop books and/or web sites? I know that there are tons of tutorial sites out there that will be helpful, but for now I'm looking for something that teaches the basics really well.

Is there anything obvious that I'm missing here? Don't be afraid to let me know. Thanks in advance for your feedback on this topic!

color combination inspiration revisited

2012-05-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I got a lot of awesome color combination suggestions last week in response to my favorite inspiration challenge post. Thank you! I thought that it would be fun to find some examples with these color combinations to provide further inspiration. I've done my best to include a variety of items/examples, as one of the best ways to take inspiration from color is to look for potential combinations everywhere. Enjoy. :)

Purple/Yellow/Silver from Grace

Source: projectwedding.com via Leona on Pinterest

Blue/Brown from Paige (brown isn't one of the color choices)

Source: furniturefromhome.com via K on Pinterest

Turquoise/Brown from Ann

Source: thegloss.com via Charleigh on Pinterest

Yellow/Gray from Paige

Source: goo.gl via Jennie on Pinterest

Purple/Brown from Sharla

Source: nywithlove.tumblr.com via Avalon on Pinterest

Blue/Orange from Kaili

Source: bippityboppityboo.tumblr.com via Anderson on Pinterest

Teal/Pink from Kaili

Source: tumblr.com via Kelsie on Pinterest

Pink/Brown from Ann

Source: google.co.uk via Sara on Pinterest

Dark Green/Mauve from Linda

Source: google.com via Annie Tobiasz on Pinterest

Blue/Green from Margaret

Source: etsy.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

In case you don't have enough to work with already, check this out.

10 Color Combinations That Every Artist Should Attempt

What other color combinations do you like and/or what combinations would you to like to experiment with more in the future? This could be a fun semi-regular feature.

Newest articles:

How to Make Paper Wreaths: Handmade Craft Home Decor Ideas
Felt and Paper Flowers Tutorial: DIY Craft Project
Button Greeting Cards Part 2: 14 More Ideas for Handmade Homemade Card Making

Looking for older articles? Click here!

Where I Linked Up Today:

Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro on Monday (5/21/12)

2012-05-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another edition of the photo Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro! Enjoy!

1) Rainbow

I have two big boxes of buttons like this. The other one has a more random assortment, but the organizer in me had to arrange part of this one in rainbow order.

2) Fluffy

A few people commented that I haven't included Angel in a few weeks so here she is again. Often my best opportunities to photograph her aren't when I have my camera in hand so sometimes I shoot these Angel pictures with my phone.

3) Letters

I love sending mail almost as much as I love receiving it. We recently got invited to a med school graduation for an old family friend. Unfortunately there's no way that I can go to the ceremony or party so I sent her a little card. I made that envelope for my magazine article.

4) Metal

I'm sure it's not a surprise that I use a lot of jump rings for some of my jewelry designs.

I'm also using this as my submission for I Heart Macro this week.

5) Tree(s)

I took a little excursion to the park this week after I had to run an errand in this area. See the baby geese?

I took a picture in almost this exact spot back in the fall.

Check out Ashley's blog to see what other people submitted for the themes this week.

Finally, don't forget to check out my May Photo a Day Challenge Board on Pinterest. I'm continuing to get that updated at least once a week and will share the highlights from that challenge here at the end of the month.

Where else I linked up today:

Treasury Round Up - 5/20/12

2012-05-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

It's been another good week of treasuries! Please help me thank the curators who featured my work this past week by visiting their shops and checking out their treasuries.

Steffi (YoMommy) included my Beaded Bangle Bracelet - Warmth in her Women love it - also in orange!! treasury. Of course I love the rich orange shades and mix of items here. Check out Steffi's VERSANDKOSTENFREI.

Edi (memoriesforlifesb) included my Button Dangle Earrings - Two-Hole Explosion in her Color Inspiration treasury. You know that I'm frequently inspired by color. Check out Edi's FRIENDS Photo Album Scrapbook Aqua and Red Mini Album.

Kristin (CarriageOakCottage) included my Beaded Bangle Bracelet - Black and Silver in her Around and Round treasury. I love this theme! Check out Kristin's Red White and Blue Home Decor / Vase.

Michelle (JechoryDesigns) included my Beaded Necklace - Round Stone Amazonite Focal - Light Blue and Champagne in her Random Favorites treasury. This is such a gorgeous, whimsical collections. Michelle did a great job with the color palette and mix of items here. Check out Michelle's Aqua Blue and Pink Glass Earrings, Dichroic Fused Glass Earrings, Sterling Silver Ear Wires.

Thanks to those who linked up with me last week! Here are a few of the items that they featured last week. Click on the photos to check out the product listings.

Saturday Link List: the May tutorials edition

2012-05-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my Saturday Link List! I've put together a wide variety of great craft tutorials and other useful household tutorials for you. Enjoy!

Thrifty Store Find - Jewelry Box Makeover from Jamie Brock

Fun pennant magnet plaque tutorial from Mod Podge Rocks

stash crafted calendar from kojo-designs

How to Make Your Own Wall-Mounted Jewelry Organizer from BigSerious

Beading Tutorial: Simple Chevron Chain from Inspirational Beading

DIY Home Decor - How to Monogram Coffee Mugs from Alissa Roberts

If you like this, you should also check out DIY Home Decor - How to Monogram Cloth Dinner Napkins.

Make Ceramic Tile Coasters with Napkins or Photos from Tammy Swallow

Polkadot & Gingham headband from Duni's Studio

DIY - How to Paint a Bulletin Board from Victory Garden

And finally, my new favorite. I really want to try this sometime!

Bleach Painting on Textiles D.I.Y. from A Beautiful Mess

Create your own link list and grab a button for your post or simply spread the word on your blog.

Did I feature your work here? Grab a button for your blog or web site!

Friday Feature: metal leaves

2012-05-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

I came across this first awesome piece earlier this month, and it inspired me to find some other neat metal leaves on Etsy. Enjoy!

wild garden ring in sterling silver with natural amethyst and period. (( Secret Garden Ring )) . made to order in your size by bddesigns

Antique leaves - silver metal leaves on green silk wedding ring pillow by woomipyo

Metal Leaf Hook - Handforged Metal Hook with Gold leaf by toughhandtwisted

Retaining ring earrings with vintage black glass flowers and green metal leaves spring fashion eco friendly fashion by BlackStar

Shabby Chic Distressed Metal Leaf Bowl by vinestjewelry

22 Inch Unique Clock with Bronze Metal Falling Leaves and Arabic Numbers by ClocksByHomestead

Wire Metal Spring Green Planter Basket by dewdropdaisies

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Where else I linked up today:

Favorite Inspiration: the May BBA Challenge

2012-05-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Sharla of BeadedTail came up with our May Challenge: Inspirations. She writes, "Your challenge is to incorporate your favorite inspiration into a project of your choice." I'm sure it's not a surprise that I'm frequently inspired my color. I'll see neat color combinations anywhere...in a clothing store, in nature, etc., and I'll immediately start thinking about how I can incorporate them into art.

Most of you already know how much I love turquoise and red. I also really love pink and green. Pink is not one of my favorite colors, but I love it paired with green. Here are a few ways that I've used this color combination in my jewelry making in the past.

For the most part, when I write craft articles, I pull ideas from lots of different sources. I do use my own photos as I can, but I often use photos from others, too. After I wrote my junk mail crafts article, I started thinking about other recycled papers to use for crafting. I was in the middle of doing a big magazine purge and decided it was well time to create my own art for an article and to use my own photos exclusively in the article. The pink and green color combination seemed like a good fit for graduation, Mother's Day, and spring cards.

Recycled Magazine Craft Project: Greeting Cards

I'm really happy with how both the cards and the article. My recycled craft articles have done well so far. Hopefully this one will, too.

Do you ever use the green and pink color combination in your crafting? What are some of your favorite color combinations?

Newest article:

Father's Day Free Printables: Cards, Coupons, Coloring Pages, Cupcake Toppers, and More

Looking for older articles? Click here!

I included this post in Michelle's Delicately Constructed Friday - 5/18/2012 and Erika's It's a Wrap Link Party - 5/21/2012.

Great offer from SocialSpark! Take advantage of it while you can.

May Mid-Month Sponsor Love

2012-05-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm celebrating the middle of the month with a shout out to all of my awesome sponsors!

Nancy of NFallonDesignStudio

I'm going to link to Nancy's blog again this month. Nancy has been keeping busy as always with sewing, home projects, and cooking.

5th Time's The Charm - Knitting Gone Wrong

Leave a Little Head Room: Making Jam & Thinking About Life

Taking a Dip.

Jamie of ForLoveofCupcakes

1. Do you have problems with tattling at home or in your classroom? Check out Jamie's tattle monster idea!
2. Have you jumped on the wreath craze yet? If you're looking for new ideas, head over to Jamie's How to Make a Reusable Yarn Wreath tutorial.
3. Jamie posts lots of adorable photos of her little one. Check her out here.

Edi of memoriesforlifesb
Edi's already having another great month with her shop. She's continuing to unroll new wedding items and home decor.

Personalized Beer Mugs Beer Steins - Groomsman Gifts - SET OF 9

Engraved Wooden Wedding Invitation - Real Wood Invitation

Personalized Dog Bone Name Sign

Linda of lindab142
Do you have a wedding, prom, graduation, or other special occasion this spring or early summer? Pick up some accessories from Linda!

Bridal White Pearl and Swarovski Crystal Flowers Sterling Silver Cluster Earrings

Antique Pink Swarovski Heart Sterling Silver Necklace Set for Prom

White Gemstone Necklace Set on Sterling Silver Chain

Nicole of KnitNicoleKnit
Nicole is celebrating 500 Facebook fans with a 50% off everything sale through May 18! Take advantage of it while you can.

Magenta Fuchsia Pink Plastic Resin Rose Flower Earrings

Sparkly Sky Blue Plastic Resin Rose Flower Earrings

One of a Kind Coral Pink Button Earrings

Linda of PruittCreations
Linda has been on a roll listing new items this month, including this great patriotic kitchen set.

Patriotic Cloth Napkins - Set of 4

Fabric Coasters - Reversible - Stars and Stripes - large set of six

Patriotic Kitchen Decorator Towel

Angela of AngleAh
Check out some of Angela's newest button items!

Red Headband with white details - Pinup Style made with buttons and ribbons

Push Pins - Upcycled cloth buttons - made with cute nature patterns - set of 21

Purple headband with button cluster - perfect for girls and teens

Anna of movetheneedle
Pick up a decorated box from Anna.

Bingo Box

Roses are Red Box

This Little Piggy Box

Paige of Little Nostalgia

1. Paige put together a great tutorial for a Tea Wood Stain.
2. Some of you may have seen the "I'm afraid" series that's going around the blog world right now. Check out Paige's take on it right here.
3. Paige had her first 2012 outdoor show this past weekend. Head over to the post to see more photos of her great displays.

Kristen of milo and molly

1. Kristen overhauled her blog and shop this month. She's now milo and molly!
2. She's been working on lots of sewing projects, including these scrappy towels. Of course the turquoise and red one is my favorite.
3. She's also been making lots of crayon rolls.

I hope that you found some useful resources today!

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May BBA Giveaway: Gift Certificate to NFallonDesignStudio!

2012-05-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Blogging Business Artisans have another exciting giveaway for May! This one is from Nancy of NFallonDesignStudio.

Nancy has been one of my blog sponsors for quite a while so hopefully if you are a regular reader, you have checked out her shop on at least a couple of occasions. She has a wonderful variety of items. There is something here for everyone, and your gift certificate money will go a long way.

That's just a small sampling of what she has available. Head on over to her shop to check out the rest of her goodies. Then head over to the BBA blog to vote! Please don't leave your entries here. They have to be on the BBA blog giveaway post to count. You can enter through the 20th.

Are you interested in joining the Blogging Business Artisans?

Check out our team requirements and think about it! I'm happy to answer any questions that you have.

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Great offer from SocialSpark! Take advantage of it while you can.

Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro on Monday (5/14/12)

2012-05-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another edition of the photo Scavenger Hunt and I Heart Macro! Enjoy!

1) Sidewalk

Jake and I spent some time in Lake Geneva on Saturday in between a wedding and reception in the area.

2) Inspiring

Good food is inspiring, right? Jake was in the mood for coffee cake this week. I made a slightly modified version of this recipe. So good.

3) Time

Aside from the kitchen clocks (stove, microwave, AND coffee maker), these are the two places that I check the time the most often.

4) Close Up

This is an in progress shot of my June EBW Challenge piece for the theme Mystery.

I'm also using this as my submission for I Heart Macro this week.

5) With Mirror

Here I am with the mirror in our dining room's built in china cabinet. I'm sure that I'll get questions about my shirt, so I'll give you the link for it now. I got it right here.

Check out Ashley's blog to see what other people submitted for the themes this week.

Finally, don't forget to check out my May Photo a Day Challenge Board on Pinterest. I'm continuing to get that updated at least once a week and will share the highlights from that challenge here at the end of the month.

Where else I linked up today:

Treasury Round Up - 5/13/12

2012-05-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

This has been another amazing week of treasuries! This was one of those weeks where I was away from my computer most of Saturday so if I missed a treasury, I'll include it in next week's round up. Please help me thank the curators who featured my work this past week by visiting their shops and checking out their treasuries.

Kathy (tapestry316) included my Beaded Bangle Bracelet - Subtle Accents in her Anyone besides me have spring fever?? treasury. I definitely have spring fever. It's awesome that it's warm enough to get outside every week now. Check out Kathy's ACEO - OOAK - A Mouse House and some Cheese for the meeses - 7 Card Draw.

Kathy also included my Beaded Bracelet - Red in her RED! treasury. I never get tired of red!

Carmen (carmentatting) included my Beaded Cuff Bracelet - Climbing the Bargello Rainbow in her Rainbow jewelry treasury. My rainbow pieces are some of my most popular designs. This seems to be true for others, too. Check out Carmen's Spring Fashion Bracelet in Tatting - Rainbow.

Erika (ArtfulRising) included my Beaded Bangle Bracelet - Wrapped Peyote - Purple in her Gift Guide for the Girls in Your Life treasury. I never get tired of purple and neither will the girls in your life when they receive these awesome purple items. Check out Erika's Handmade Journal, Follow Your Adventure, Custom Black Sketchbook Choose Colors Bicycle.

Deb (storybeader) included my Beaded Wrap Bracelet/Necklace - Your Tropical Destination in her the big question is: what to pack? treasury. Deb is taking a big trip in a few weeks! What a fun way to prepare for it. Check out Deb's Green and white paper beads.

Heather (iHartFelt) included my Beaded Cuff Bracelet - Monochromatic Explosion in her Salt & Pepper treasury. I'm sure that I sound like a broken record, but I seriously never get tired of the black and white color combination. Check out Heather's "Three Friends" Owl Softies.

I also curated my own treasury this week. I had so much fun creating a bright treasury last month with lime items that I decided to continue the trend this month with orange.

Rock May With Orange

Thanks to those who linked up with me last week! Here are a few of the items that they featured last week. Click on the photos to check out the product listings.

Saturday Link List: the May resource edition

2012-05-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my Saturday Link List! My resources editions primarily include resources for bloggers and crafty people with anything else that I like to throw into the mix. Enjoy!

FREE Monograms in custom colors from http://www.weddingchicks.com

Three Must-Have Online Tools for Bloggers from tribalblogs.com

This list includes Hoot Suite. If you're not using Hoot Suite or something similar yet and you do a lot of social media promo, give it a try! It saves me so much time.

5 Must-Measure eCommerce Blogging Strategies from blog.hubspot.com

10 Big Myths About Copyright Explained from templetons.com

When to pull the pin...best practices for pinning from lovelife.typepad.com

So You Want a "Fancy" Template on Blogger? from crafterminds.com

Tutorial: Switching from GFC to Google Plus from pixelberrypiedesigns.blogspot.com

And also on the subject of Google Plus...

10 Ways to Use Google+ For Promoting Your Blog

Free Printables from lovevsdesign.com (cards, gift tags, and more)

How to Navigate the New Facebook Fan Page Timeline (Tips for Fans and Admins) from handmadeology.com

Top 10 Best Free Online Color Tools from technotab.com

Create your own link list and grab a button for your post or simply spread the word on your blog.

Did I feature your work here? Grab a button for your blog or web site!

Friday Feature: May random edition

2012-05-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my random favorite picks on Etsy from this past month. Enjoy!

I still have some dagger beads from Shannon that I purchased back at Christmas, so I haven't jumped yet, but these new ones are so awesome, too.
11x3mm 3 Tone Opaque Turquoise Transparent Aqua and Amethyst Czech Glass Dagger Beads from beadsandbabble

I seriously never get tired of mix tapes.
Mix Tape Plush / Pillow in Mustard and Gray by YellowHeartArt

I have only made a few pieces with squares so far, but they are so much fun. I'm not done with them yet by any means. I love this take on them.
Bracelet in Tangerine, Aqua, and Gold Seed Bead Squares by SierraBeader

Isn't this a fun mix of shapes and colors?
Spring Fever Skinny Ring Stack . citrine, peridot, and swiss blue topaz . set of 5 sterling silver stacking rings . made in your size by bddesigns

You know how much I love turquoise and red!
Sea wonders - beadwoven starfish and turquoise necklace by Sobby

I had to include one more in turquoise and red.
Turquoise coral bracelet, bead embroidered Southwestern statement jewelry with gemstones by MoonsafariBeads

I just stumbled across this shop a few days ago. Her cuffs are so sweet!
Goose Goose Duck Duck Fabric Cuff by EthelationsbyTEMA

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Where else I linked up today:

voting for the May EBW Challenge

2012-05-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Voting for the May EBW Challenge Nautical Inspired is up and running! You can vote on the blog today through May 15. Voting is on the right side of the page. You'll have to scroll down a little bit to see all of the entries. We do have a clickable mosaic again! If you have problems with the main page, click here. Check out all of the entries and vote for your favorite.

Here's my entry.

It's still available for sale here. If you missed the blog post about it last month, read more about it right here.

As always, there are lots of stunning entries in this challenge. Here are just a few of my favorites.

How sweet is this design? This is so whimsical.
Sailing summer seas peyote stitched pendant for May EBW by BoonieBeads

Even though computer programs make the task much simpler, I'm still in awe at the intricate beadwoven cuff designs that people create.
Nautical Beadwoven Cuff Bracelet... EBWC May Challenge... EBW Team... Shells... Starfish... Seahorse... Blue by MaryTDesigns

This is perfect for anyone who loves maps and/or compasses.
Antique map adventure necklace by BeadCatcher

I really want to attempt bezeled rivolis sometime. They are so beautiful!
Portholes Nautical Beadwoven Bracelet by SallyGoRoundTheMoon

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in my kitchen

2012-05-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

One of my goals over the next couple years is to document more of my recipes. Many of the meals that I prepare on a regular basis are my own creations or heavily modified recipes. I want to be able to pass these on to others someday. I also simply enjoying sharing them.

HubPages is having a recipe contest next month so I'm saving up a couple new ideas to turn into great articles. For now, I'm sharing a few of my older standards. Enjoy!

What's In the Fridge Cobb Salad

I make salads for lunch on a fairly regular basis. Most of them are a variation of a Cobb salad with what we have on hand and whatever dressing I'm currently loving. This is what I included in the pictured salad above.

Handful of lettuce, torn (spinach leaves work well, too)

3-4 slices cucumber, diced

3-4 cherry or grape tomatoes, diced

1/2 avocado, diced (or if you're like me and don't live with anyone who enjoys avocados, the whole avocado)

2 slices deli meat, shredded (I used sliced ham and chicken)

small handful of shredded cheese (I used Colby Jack)

small handful of croutons (we bought these, but you can make them)

I did not include hard boiled eggs, but this is another great option that I sometimes use.

Sloppy Joes

This is a modified Rachael Ray recipe.

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound ground beef

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

2-2.5 tablespoons steak seasoning (I use McCormicks)

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 8 oz. can tomato sauce

Pour the olive oil in a large frying pan. Brown the ground beef. About halfway through cooking, mix the brown sugar and steak seasoning. Add the mixture to the beef. Finish cooking the beef. Drain the grease. Add the red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato sauce. Mix well. Simmer for 5 minutes. I like to serve it on toasted buns with cheese.

I chose to pair my sandwich with some simple raw veggies and Ranch dressing and chips. There are many great side options for sloppy joes.

Pork Chops

I did document this recipe on HubPages a while back. You can check it out here.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

Cheesy Orzo

This is another recipe from Rachael Ray. I don't use a lot of her recipes, but this pasta and the sloppy joes are two of her best. I cut this recipe in half, but otherwise I didn't make any modifications. If you're cooking for a larger group, you can easily make a double batch.

1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

2 tablespoons olive oil

1-2 cloves garlic, diced

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 14-16 oz. can chicken broth

3/4 cup shredded cheese of your choice (I usually use a mix of Colby Jack and Parmesan)

Coat the bottom of a large saucepan with the olive oil. Cook the garlic and onion for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic has browned slightly. Add the chicken broth. Cover the pan and bring to a boil. Add the pasta. Turn the heat to low and cover. Stir the mixture every 3-4 minutes until the pasta has absorbed all of the chicken broth. Add the cheese and stir until it's melted. Serve.

The broccoli that we ate with this meal is simple steamed broccoli. Delicious and healthy but nothing too exciting.

What are some of your standard recipes? Feel free to share recipe links!

I included this post in Michelle's Delicately Constructed Friday 5/11/12.

weekend show wrap up

2012-05-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you for all of the well wishes about my Sunday show! This was a brand new show for me that I found out about through the Wisconsin Arts and Crafts Fair Directory. The directory shows have a good reputation, and this was a small juried show, so I was optimistic. But you never know how these things will go. Thankfully it did not disappoint. We had steady traffic all day, and I had steady sales as well.

For my 2011 shows, I used three card tables, which is about 8 feet across. For 2012, I decided to add two smaller tables in the front, making an open square. For anyone who may be considering this type of set up, the booth sizes for this show were 8"x8" and it JUST fit. I had enough room to sit behind the display, but that was about it. Many shows have 10"x10" booths so it will work for most shows.

I know that my sign was drooping a little bit. I did fix it early in the show. It's just a tiny bit taller than my tables so I really have to secure it well from above to get it at the right height.

I didn't feel like doing a mock set up at home with the new tables, but I didn't want to invent it all on the spot either, so I drew up a plan ahead of time. This worked really well. I didn't have to think about how to arrange inventory on the new tables at all when I got there. I put my new flowers, pins, rings, hair pins, and magnets on this left side.

Remember how I wanted to base my card displays? I did, and it was so much better. I did not tape down these displays or my easels, which I normally do even for indoor shows, but I will next time. There was only one minor incident with a tip over, but it's better to be safe then sorry. Also, remember how I talked about building up my card tabs so you could see them over the card sleeves in the display box? I did, which was a tedious task, but it was worth it and will be even more so for future shows as I create more cards to fill all of those tabs (I only have about 8 filled categories right now).

I did sell the 2012 card. I would like to make more with this design in the future.

Overall, I was really happy with this set up. I loved the extra room with the new tables. It wasn't too crowded, which was good because I'm planning to add boxed card sets and possibly some small canvas button art for my holiday shows. All of the vertical displays really helped draw people into my entire display. I have talked about vertical displays before, but I really can't stress this enough. The more of them I add to my booth, the more people look.

I'm sure that I'll get questions about this so I'll put it out there now: the music note boxes are just overturned Dollar Store plastic crates covered with fabric. I didn't glue the fabric down or anything, just tucked it into the crate. It worked really well.

I got a lot of compliments on the new flowers. I didn't sell too many of them, but it added a lot to my display, so I think that I'll keep it.

It feels good to have a successful open house and one successful show done already for 2012. Here's hoping for more successful shows this year!

Has anyone else done a show recently? Share your experiences and tips!

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I included this post in Erika's It's a Wrap Link Party - 5/14/2012.