We Are The Joneses

Car Seat Cover Tutorial

2011-05-24T06:12:00.001-07:00

Here's Heidi! I just love her blog Trying it Out! And she's so sweet! Make sure to stop by and tell her hello!!

I am Heidi and I blog over at trying it out. I used to be a junior high math teacher, until I had my first daughter, who is now four. I also have a 22 month old daughter and a pretty great husband (most the time anyway :) ). I love to create, but I am not creative. Fortunately I have the rest of the blogging world to inspire me, and I often use their help to make something. I am too independent to ask someone to teach me, so I learn by trial and error, often more error. I just like having a place to keep track of all the things I make, and my progression. This is my first time being featured, and I am pretty excited about it, Thanks Amanda for giving me a chance, and for always helping me find more inspiration

Car Seat Cover/Nursing Cover Tutorial

Car Seat cover

add a strap

Nursing Cover

You will need: one yard of front fabric (I used cotton quilting fabric)
one yard of back fabric (I used Chenille)
scraps of wool felt-optional (for flower)
Velcro (the sew on kind, not the sticky kind, it will gunk up your machine)
basic sewing tools (thread, scissors, pins, etc)

Cut both pieces about 35 inches wide, give or take (forgive me, I decided to do the tutorial after finishing, so all my pictures are of the finished product, not during the process)

and about 43 inches long

using a bowl, plate, or something round, round the edges of your fabric

sew the flower on. I used leftover felt from this and followed to same general steps, just making it smaller

then sew the two pieces together, wrong sides together, leaving a space for turning
turn right sides out and top stitch (I did three rounds of top stitch, because I liked the look of it. You could do one or two)

now make the straps for attaching to the car seat

I sewed to rectangles of chenille together measuring about 3.5" by 7.5". I sewed them right sides together, then turned them right side out and top stitched. I repeated for the second strap.

Then I sewed Velcro on, so it could wrap around the car seat handle. Make sure you place the Velcro on opposite sides, so it can wrap flat

it will Velcro closed like this

Then I sewed the straps on (I did two seams down the center to attach each strap)

if you enlarge this picture, you will see the straps are about 13" down from the top

and about 21 inches up from the bottom (yours do not have to be exact)

place them about 10" in on either side

and about 8 inches apart

now make the strap, for the nursing cover

I sewed two rectangles right sides together, measuring 25.5"x3.5" and turned them right sides out. Then I top stitched around

now you are done

if you feel inclined, embellish a cute burp cloth to go with it (I just used scrap fabric, some leftover lace hem tape, and some lace. The lace came on a spool and so it already had a tendency to roll. I just stared a circle on the outside, and rolled it in to the center)

Did you know that My Vinyl Designer offers FREE downloads of some of their designs? Go check them out!!

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

Features of a different sort today....

So some people are laughing at me. But I really want a hat. Really want a hat. We're pretty boring -- I'd probably end up wearing it to the grocery store.

But I would. I would wear it down the cereal aisle with pride. While matching up my coupons.

Because that is royal.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie

I got the photo here

Now I admit that some hats might seem more extreme. But I will say -- I like the blue color. And I like her coat.

Princess Osborne

Picture from here

I'm kind of a freak for feathers right now. I think that this one would do well down the Kroger aisles.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex

Picture from here

Love it. Love it.

Lady Frederick of Windsor

Picture from here

This one is slightly more "cruise ship" than Royal Wedding in my opinion. But Lady Frederick pulled it off nicely. She makes it look classy.

Princess Marie-Chantal's hat

Photo from here

I think this hat is great. The color is gorgeous. I love the flowers. It looks very British.

Kate is a hat lover too.

I got the photo here

Andy said it looked like one of those old satellite dishes, but I like it :)

I got the photo here

One of my favorites. So pretty. So classic.

I got the photo here

Really? I'd smile too. Told you - I'm a sucker for feathers.

So million dollar question. If I was in line at the grocery store and you saw me wearing one of these hats would you laugh?

I loved the wedding. I loved the dress. I actually just love Kate's (or are we supposed to call her Catherine now?) style. I hope she brings back the classic styles. The clean lines. So classy. I need a long coat, pearls and a hat.

Tomorrow is the Blogger of the Month Link Party at Today's Top 20. Come link up your best project that you made in April. Prize will be donated by the fabulous ladies of My Vinyl Designer !! Right now they are offering 25% off every order until the end of April! HOW AWESOME!

Blog Updates

2011-04-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Easter weekend! We sure did! Just a few quick things!

{I wanted a picture next to the flowers - he was mad because the grass was wet.}

First - Have you heard of BlogFrog? It's an awesome site that allows everyone to connect in communities. Think facebook ... but in groups. I started a group called Do It Yourself. I'd love for you to join! There is an open forum - start discussions, meet other people, share ideas! I'd love to start monthly "creative meetings" (a.k.a. live chats) once we get enough members! {Click here or over on the right to join - and of course, it's free!}

Second - Blogger of the month party is coming up over at Today's Top 20! My Vinyl Designer is donating yet another awesome prize! You should really go check them out because - well - they rock.

ANNND

Third - I'm really trying to evaluate myself as a blogger. And make sure that as my blog(s) grow that I am keeping them going in the direction that I'd like. I started blogging so that I could inspire, be inspired and make friends who understood my excitement over things like burlap, printable fabric (ok, just fabric in general) and decorating for such holidays like Talk Like A Pirate Day (oh yes, it's a biggie in our house).

With that said -- please join me on Twitter, email me, join the Do It Yourself Community, if you live in the Indianapolis area let's do lunch. We don't need a blog conference to all get together! :) {Although -- I can't wait to go to one!}

Pillowcase to Tote Bag

2011-04-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

(This was originally posted on A Vision To Remember! But I had to show you guys!)

I'm always finding cool pillowcases at the thrift shop and Goodwill. And for 50 cents why not pick them up!?

My son loves Mario. So when I found this pillowcase it was a no brainer.

If your son is like mine, then he's on the go -- a lot! Grandma & Grandpas, friends house, other Grandma & Grandpas, in the car ... go go go!

Time for a tote bag!

And pillowcases make it SO quick (about 15 minutes) and EASY!!!

First make your straps. I cut mine about 24 inches long and 4 inches wide. You will need 2!

To make the straps fold over one edge to the half way mark and pin.

Repeat on the other side. Then fold in half and sew together.

Figure out which side you want facing and which to be lining. I chose to have Mario on the inside due to where the fold is. Plus, we like green so Luigi wins. :)

I cut about 3 1/2 inches off the bottom since this was going to be a child size bag. Then you cut a small square in each corner.

{Can you believe it? That's ALL the cutting!}

Pin the side and bottom. Leave the top and the square cut outs unpinned.

To place straps, fold the bottom and the sides in.

Pin your straps on giving about an inch to sew securely. Then flip and pin on the other strap so they are nice and even.

Sew around your pinned edges. You will want to use a zig zag stitch to make it super secure.

Now you just have the corners. Pull the inside corners to make a flat base - match up your zig zag stitch that you have done. Stitch with a zig zag.

Flip right side out. And your done! {We take Yoshi everywhere!}

Nothing like getting your picture taken first thing in the morning!! {P.S. You like his Pj's? Daddy let him pick out jammies last night -- out of my Goodwill pile!! Did he not notice how small that shirt was?! }

Just focus on the bag! :) Someone is getting a haircut! TODAY!

He really does love the bag. And I'm happy that it is the perfect size for him to carry his own stuff! {And I just can't get over this pj/hair situation...lol}

Flower Rag Quilt Blanket

2011-04-22T11:18:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to be here today! I am the author of A Vision to Remember. I also have my own etsy shop, where I sell many of my creations. I am a stay at home mom of 2 awesome girls and one dog. They are my inspiration for sure. Everything that I have made has been for them in some way.

Here are a couple of things that I have made over at my blog:

I love making rag quilts. I sell many in my etsy shop, but this pattern is available for download on my blog here.

This was a fun pleated headband that I made for myself (one of the few times that I craft for myself, if you know what I mean :)

I also made this fun Ribbon skirt for my daughter (Part 1, Part 2)

I also have many other tutorials on my blog. Make sure to stop by and check them out.

I also have my own Etsy shop. There I sell rag quilts, car seat tents, and lots of patterns. Some of the patterns I sell are rag quilts, belly band, and fabric flowers.

Thanks again for swapping blogs with me and make sure to stop by tomorrow and link up to Check ME Out Saturday Link Party Have a great day!

It's Virtual Payday - Let's go shopping!

2011-04-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

{I'm guest posting over at A Vision to Remember. Go check out my pillowcase to tote bag tutorial!)

It's Friday! So my virtual payday is here! Time to go virtual shopping at Etsy! :) $100. Here's what I would get...

I think I'm going to have to order some of these fondant Teacher appreciation cupcake toppers. Then it will look like I'm an awesome cupcake maker. :) Village Cupcakes has lots of cute toppers! $12.95

I love yellow. This would go perfect in my craft room! I'm always needing jars to hold scraps - velcro - elastic - buttons - STUFF! :) This one is from Moxie Thrift. $11

Isn't this measuring tape from 58 & Grace cool? Only $3.55! And guess they're right next to me! Small world!

Again - craft room! How adorable is this beeswax bird candle!? $9.50 from Rose Kraft

How fun are these cupcake candles from Mireio? $12 for set of 4 votives.

I think this is super cool - Hawaiian girl ribbon! I have NO clue what I would ever use this for - Josh doesn't seem like the type to want some girls on his stuff! From Aramaa $2.20/yard

Warning: I went on a ribbon kick... :) Love the little red riding hood! $6.50 for 3 meters (3.28 yards) from Himenana's Fabric Garden.

Also from Himenana's Fabric Garden is this ribbon! Love the dolls! Also $6.50 for 3 meters (3.28 yards)

I love vintage fabrics! This is a Dutch cotton gnome fairytale print. I think this would look so cute as a little girl's skirt! From She's Living Lavida Loca $6.75

The Knotted Bobbin has this great 1/2 yard cut pack of Moda Just Wing It for $17.

And I'd have to take home this fabric too. Hullabaloo from Urban Chicks for Moda. $8.07 at The Knotted Bobbin.

Wow! I did pretty good on my virtual shopping trip here! $106.17. I manage to come in a little over budget each week. :) Story of my life! lol

What shops would you spend an extra $100!?

{Almost} Wordless Wednesday - Butt Cake Edition

2011-04-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

I made this butt cake (Josh refuses to call it a bundt cake. 7 year old humor. Gotta love it.) It had lots of frosting. We ate some on Friday (obviously) and woke up Saturday to this.

Me: Joooosh, what happened to the cake?

Josh: Sorry mommy. I couldn't help it. The frosting is just so good.

He licked the cake. Licked it people. It's a darn good thing my thighs don't need another piece.....

Hunting For Spring

2011-04-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know...I live in Indiana. And it's been cold. And then it got warm. For a day. And then cold. And now it's finally starting to get warm again. I'm SOOO ready for spring! Are you?

It's supposed to rain for like the next week so I figured I should probably get out while I could. I'm so glad I did - signs of spring! WOO HOO!

Trees starting to grow their leaves back...

Even the weeds are pretty.

Aren't all the flowers in the trees pretty?

Except these trees! Yowza! Josh thinks these trees are just the coolest. Must be a boy thing.

And I got home just in time...here comes the rain!

So ready for warm & sunny weather to be here!

Autism Bag

2011-04-14T05:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures I made for Josh's Resource teacher using the Autism print here.

I just did a basic tote bag. The printable fabric that I got (at Joann's w/ my coupon!) was so easy to work with. Print. Iron. Loooove it when it's easy!

I lined it with just some light blue and had to add a pocket. The pocket is from Moda Punctuation.

Josh said his teacher loved it! I am so happy. Now...teacher appreciation....what to make.....

Boys Easter Shirt

2011-04-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

My blogging buddy Bev from Flamingo Toes and I were talking about her printables she makes. Well, for Christmas she made a get your swag on Christmas print. It was a funny print inspired by, of all things, a rap song. Hee Hee. I thought it was funny. I told her she she have a Get your swag on inspired peep print.

And she did!!

Bwhahahah don't you LOVE it!?!!?!

Go here to print it in either green, blue, pink, purple OR like I did and no background.

What?! No background? Boooo. Boring! No wait!

You print it on fabric...{I got mine from Joann's - with a coupon of course. It's so easy. Just print and iron. And it's washable!}

And after your done printing...iron it on a shirt.

Then hold your child hostage and tell him he can NOT go play at his friends until you get 1 picture of him...hence...the happy face. lol

But Josh wore the shirt to school the other day and everyone loved it!! So THANKS BEV!!!!!! :)

P.S. Today is her blog birthday! And instead of getting presents she's giving some away! Hurry go enter!!!

Frayed Rose Quilt

2011-04-11T05:55:00.001-07:00

This is a pretty quilt tutorial from my blogging friend Megan - From This & That Creative!! You have to check out her blog! :) Thanks Megan!!

Here is the blanket that I have had tucked away in my mind for a while

that needed to become a reality.

I wanted to do something I haven't done before,

and I had a few different ideas in mind. I was thinking I might want

a scalloped design to quilt all over the blanket--similar to the scalloped

design on the wall in this picture.

Image from HERE

My other idea was to use a flower outline--I ended up doing this one but

would love to still try the scallops. I found an image online of an outline of a rose.

It is from a piece of jewelry, but just the design I wanted for my blanket.

Image from HERE

I freehanded the design on my top selection of fabric for my blanket with chalk.

As the chalk got smooth and didn't write as well, I'd rub it on

some sandpaper and keep going till I had the whole design on the blanket.

I had my top fabric, my batting, and my bottom layer of fabric already

laid out and matched up when I started my design.

I then measured each petal outline and wrote down those measurements.

Next, I cut some strips from some matching white cotton fabric to go over my outlines.

If my measurement from one petal section was 11", then I would make sure

to add a couple inches to it and make the strip to cover it about 13"or so, so that I could allow

for the curves where I knew the fabric would be folded a little. The

more the curves in the measurement, the more length I added to the strip.

It's best to always over estimate, so you don't have to cut a new strip.

Here are all the strips laid out over top of my design.

I then pinned down the strips, folding in some spots like shown below to

help make the curves. Make sure to pin through your strip, top layer of fabric,

batting, as well as the bottom layer of fabric for your blanket and make sure

that all the layers match up correctly.

I missed a few spots and had to redo some parts.

Here's all of my strips pinned on.

I then used my sewing machine to stitch my strips on.

Just follow the center of each strip until you have the

whole design all quilted.

I used the simple binding technique that I found at My Spare Time , but

instead of using a satin ribbon, I used some white fleece material that I had

pieced together and cut into a long strip.

After I had everything sewn, I threw my blanket in the washer and dryer.

I cut away any ugly looking strings as a result of the

strips fraying in the wash and this is the result!

I love how it is super "fluffy" (Despicable Me--anyone?) and

down-comforter-like that it turned out.

There really is no end to the possibilities that you can use for a design.

And I think next time I would like to try a ruffled edge around the blanket.

I'd love to see any more designs that anyone else tries!

Seriously... how much does this rock!?!

Autism Print - Love you to Puzzle Pieces

2011-04-02T18:27:00.000-07:00

Yes. It's me. Again. :)

Today is April 2nd. Did you know that?

Well did you know that it is National Autism Awareness Day?

And April is Autism Awareness month?

In case you weren't sure.

This is what Autism looks like.

And I'm so blessed to be his mom! :)

I have something for all of you who have a child with Autism or maybe you work with someone with Autism. You can print it out - make it your background - write a special note with it. Or print it on fabric (you can get packages of printable fabric at Joann's or other craft stores) and just use some heat and bond to attach it to a canvas bag and give it to the fabulous teachers and therapists who help our kids SO much! {can you tell that's what I'm going to do?} :) {Hope Josh's therapists don't happen to read my blog.. well after this they can!!}

Love you to puzzle pieces

Just leave a comment - with your email address - and I will email you the pdf!

Linking here

Project Selvage Contest

2011-04-02T16:54:00.001-07:00

My Etsy buddy Michelle entered a contest over at Project Selvage. And guess what? Her fabric is one of the semi-finalists!! Out of over 1,000!! WOW!!! {Applaud here!}

The contest is for boy fabrics! Hooray!! Michelle made this modern fabric block. She is trying to get the fabric world to notice boy fabrics outside of the typical cars, animals and nautical prints.

I love her colors!!

So now she needs your help! Head over to Project Selvage - and flip through the fabrics. Pick (I hope you pick hers!) your favorites {you can pick as many as you like! Which is great because there are some really great ones!} A green box appears around those you chose. Click vote. That's it. No registering. No real work. SO easy! And it means a lot!

While your at it head to her Etsy shop to scope out some waaay cute fabrics! :)

Recipe: Blender Bread

2011-03-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe a few years ago from Taste of Home. They are so good - and so easy. Def. a go to recipe!

You need:

1 cup milk

1 package dry yeast

1/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/4 cup veggie oil

3 1/4 cup flour

1 tsp salt

1. Heat up your milk - I put mine in the microwave on the drink setting.

2. Combine warm milk, yeast, sugar, eggs, and oil in blender.

3. Blend.

4. In a large bowl combine flour and salt.

5. Add the blender mix.

6. Combine and let rise for 30 minutes.

{Look - your clean up is SOOO easy!!! No flour counters!}

7. Shape (originally I think these were made in cupcake pans to make rolls - but I was making buns) Rise 30 minutes.

8. Bake at 350 for 18 - 20 minutes.

Make the rest of your dinner.

And ....

YUMMMM!!!

Linking up to these fabulous parties!

Blanket Party

2011-03-27T19:08:00.001-07:00

Hey guys! It's the end of the month - which means blanket party time! Don't forget each Monday you can see a special blanket tutorial at Today's Top 20, We're the Joneses, and This & That Creative!

For anyone new - I've started a blanket drive this year to raise blankets for Project Linus. Why? To donate blankets in my son Gabe's name. I lost our baby in August due to a miscarriage. I really wanted something positive to be associated with his name. And giving back is the best way to do that.

Project Linus is such a great organization. They donate handmade blankets to kids (newborn - teens) who need them the most. I'm really happy to be working with them.

I am so happy to say that I have recieved over 50 blankets for Project Linus. WOW! Thank you so much!!! I really am just so greatful. :) Thank you thank you thank you.

So link up any blanket project you've got. Mail me your blankets to get donated. Email if you are interested in guest posting a blanket tutorial (it will be seen at Today's Top 20, We're The Joneses and This & That Creative).

Can't wait to see your projects!!

And don't forget the 31st is the Blogger of the Month Party at Today's Top 20. Come link up your fave. project you've made in March for a chance to win a great prize from My Vinyl Designer as well as a month's of advertising at Today's Top 20!

Please go check out all of the awesome things that My Vinyl Designer has to offer!! Right now they are offering 25% off every order until the end of April! HOW AWESOME!

My Shopping Round Up

2011-03-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

I'd for sure get Josh this shirt -- I love the slogan "Wear the message....
From Afghanistan to Zimbabwe and countries in between, our wish for the World is PEACE."

Get it at RC Tees shop. $18 and 25% of proceeds are going to Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support. Such a great cause!

And I'd have to get this bike shirt from Caustic Threads too. I love that you can pick and chose the colors! I like the grey but I'd have to take green ink (of course!) for Josh! $14.

Aren't these soaps cute? Pink Parchment Soaps has them for sale! I'd chose the duck with the bunny ears! $6.00

How awesome is this little undies bag? Luxford Street's shop is super cool {she has a lego purse too!}. I'd buy this for my sister to put her pens and stuff in at school. How funny! $22

This clock would look great on Josh's desk! {His Mario room is slowly getting done!} CAE clocks has tons of games to chose from! $25

I'd take a yard of Michael Miller's Prom fabric. I'd have to make something for my friend Katie. Do you see that girl spiking the punch!? How funny! $8.50 at Hypernoodle2

And I'd have to get a yard of Rainy Days by Riley Blake! $7.25 at Thread This Fabric.

Total: $101.75

How would you spend an extra $100?!

You know you take too many pictures when....

2011-03-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

You know you take too many pictures when you say smile and.....

Do you see that his other hand is covering his face...just in case I got around that big hand? :)

Or how about...you know you take too many pictures when you give your child their dinner plate and they look at you. So you ask why aren't you eating? Aren't you hungry?

Their response...

I was seeing if you were going to take a picture of my hot dog first.

What about you? How do you know if you take too many pictures?

Oh - kind of a hooray my shop is finally open - enter coupon3 for 15% off your final purchase! Go check out my items here. More will be added each day so be sure to check back!

Ballerina Blanket Tutorial

2011-03-21T04:57:00.001-07:00

One great thing about blogging is meeting new friends. Stephanie from Full of Great Ideas is such a sweet gal and super creative. You def. have to check out her blog! I love it! And I love this blanket she made. It's so super sweet! Thanks for sharing today Stephanie!! :)

My daughter was invited to her best friend's 8th birthday party. Her friend is an amazing ballerina and my daughter really wanted to make her a blanket with a ballerina on it. I knew there was no way I could make a ballerina but I came up with an idea that I am very proud of and I think is absolutely beautiful.

I used the same technique as my personalized fleece blankets to make this. I purchased the large deep pink coral fleece blanket (double bed size) and 1yard of tulle. I had black felt, pink fleece, pink ribbon, Velcro circles and thread in light pink, deep pink (to match the blanket) and black on hand. Total cost $5 for the blanket (on clearance) and $6 for the tulle.

I started by printing off some images of a tutu and body form to be inspired from. I first cut out of black felt the bust of the body form, then the post and the feet. Make sure to prewash the felt because the color can transfer.

Once I was happy with the dress form, I used that as the shape to cut the bodysuit. I didn't want the top to be too low cut since this is a gift for an 8 year old girl so I made just a small 'v' shape. I used a wide light pink ribbon (same as the slippers) to make straps on the shoulder.

I decided to remove the black felt from behind the bodysuit so that it was quicker to sew. This is optional.

I placed all the pieces on the blanket to determine where I wanted the exactly. I then lightly glued the fabric down onto the blanket using a fabric glue that dries clear. I start with the black pieces first by pulling one side back and gluing it. This allows you to glue it down without having to move the entire piece.

Once this was drying, I started to work on the ballet slippers. For these I simply printed off a clip art image that was resized (approximately 7 1/2 long) to be in proportion to the bodysuit . I then cut out the shape of the slippers in light pink fleece and sewed a straight stitch over the inner lines to make it look like it had an opening for a foot.

I ripped off the paper and did a tight zig-zag stitch over the straight stitch to create a bold accent line.

I cut two pieces of ribbon to the length I wanted to make the ties for the slippers (I lightly heated the ends of the ribbon so they would not fray). I glued the ribbons and slippers on the blanket.

I create the girl's name in a Word file using a font that I like. I print off the letters and then cut them out of the light pink fleece. I glue these down in the exact spot I wanted them.

Next I focused on the tutu. I had 1 yard of tulle so I folded it in half length wise and did a basting stitch along the fold.

Pulling one tread from either end I gathered the tulle until it was the width of the waist of the dress. I then sewed a ribbon across the basting stitch to secure it.

Once the glue was dry, I did a zig-zag stitch around the dress form, name and the bodysuit. I always use the exact color of the blanket for the bobbin thread and match the upper thread with what I am sewing. I find this makes both the front and back of the blanket look nice.

(Back of fabric with matching thread.)

I attached the tutu to the dress with small Velcro circles. I thought it would be best that this could be removed for washing. Not 100% necessary but a nice to have.

One last look. Wow... I can't tell you how happy I am with this. Let's hope she loves it too :)

Told you! Love it huh? A-stinking-dorable.

Make sure to check out My Vinyl Designer for all your vinyl needs -- or just browse their massive project list for ideas! You will find something you love!

Back. With Photos. With My Philosophy on life.

2011-03-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

Alright. I'm here. Have no fear. Computer issues. But I've stayed busy!

A little late. I know. Josh's friend pulled off my tag that said Leprechaun Juice that was attached to my bottle (thanks kid) so it got moved to a shelf up high. The luck letters I made the same as the LOVE. {And for some reason they look really dark in this picture but they are a pretty clover green}. The green candle holder I got at Kohls for $1.99! {It has a Christmas tree scented candle in it but since I'm not lighting it anyways..} The dice I made for about $2. And the picture frame has scrapbook paper in it. It's cute. Plaid. With pots of gold.

Tell me that the candle looks more St. Patrick's Day than Christmas!! I think so! The dice worked for St. Patrick's Day. But I actually made it for my vintage game theme. And then I found these.

Aren't these cool? I got them at Hobby Lobby. {I LOOOOOOOVE Hobby Lobby}

One thing that I hate about living in an apartment is....white walls. And our living room is tiny! But I suppose if I had to chose between larger bedrooms and a small living room or the other way around I'd take it as is.

I've got a few things in progress.

Don't you love those colors? I can't wait to show you it when it's all done!
**UPDATE: OCD Obsessive Crafting Disorder is giving some of these fabrics away! Click here to enter**

I've been crafting. Here's my short philosophy on life. Opportunities are created not presented. A friend and I were talking about that earlier today. An opportunity is never given to you if you've not done anything to warrant it. So I would like to stay at home. I would like to craft. I would like to blog. And I would like to pay my bills (well, help pay them at least!) So I need to create the opportunity for that to happen.

That means adding to my store, doing craft fairs, and keeping up with my blogging. Goal: Add 1 thing to my store each day. And blog each day.

So stay tuned for those. What opportunities are you creating for yourself?

Here are some things I've made to add to my shop.

Easter Shirt. I love the plaid. $12.95

Strawberry Shortcake Houndstooth Blanket. The other side is a soft pink Minky. It's just so girly. I adore it. $45

Anyone still there? :) I just have to showoff Josh's school.

Isn't his school playground HUGE? And this is just half of it. On the other side there is a big boat the kids can get in and it rocks. And the other side has swings, a smaller play ground, basketball goals and so forth. It's seriously the coolest.

Josh is on Spring Break so we've been hanging out.

So there's my update. I'll be back tomorrow! I've got a few projects in my head I want to get done! So be on the look out for tutorials! :)

Gosh it feels good to be back!

Link up your best project for a chance to win!

2011-03-01T04:46:00.000-08:00

Right now over at Today's Top 20 - it's Blogger of the Month! Link up your best project here for a chance to win great prizes!! The top 10 will be voted on and a winner will be announced on Friday! Good luck!

Blanket Party w/ giveaway

2011-02-27T16:38:00.001-08:00

Hey guys! It's the end of the month - which means blanket party time! Don't forget each Monday you can see a special blanket tutorial at Today's Top 20, here at We're the Joneses, and This & That Creative!

For anyone new - I've started a blanket drive this year to raise blankets for Project Linus. Why? To donate blankets in my son Gabe's name. I lost our baby in August due to a miscarriage. I really wanted something positive to be associated with his name. And giving back is the best way to do that.

Project Linus is such a great organization. They donate handmade blankets to kids (newborn - teens) who need them the most. I'm really happy to be working with them.

March is going to be a really hard month for me. My due date was actually my birthday - March 14. So I'm hoping to make a blanket drop off. If you have any blanket that you would be willing to donate - please send them my way! {You can email me at amandablogs(at)yahoo}

Here is one of the receiving blankets I made with the help from Raspberry Creek Fabric. She really went above and beyond - sending me super cute flannel for 4 blankets! THANK YOU! :) Make sure to check our her shop for super cute prints!

And I have a taggie blanket ready. This was thanks to Sew It Up Fabric. She has kits that come with the adorable fabric, minky and ribbon all ready to go. The instructions are super easy. This was such a fun, quick project!

So link up any blanket project you've got. Mail me your blankets to get donated. Email if you are interested in guest posting a blanket tutorial (it will be seen here at Today's Top 20, We're The Joneses and This & That Creative).

Can't wait to see your projects!!

I'll pick one project using random to send out a little package of my favorite crafty things so make sure I'm able to get your email address! :)

And don't forget tomorrow is the Blogger of the Month Party. Come link up your fave. project you've made in February for a chance to win a great prize from My Vinyl Designer as well as a month's of advertising here at Today's Top 20!

Blogging/Etsy Tax Tips

2011-02-21T06:24:00.001-08:00

I know it is Monday and it's usually blanket day, but I thought that this was something you would all be interested in! And if you already filed your taxes this year, keep records for next year!

If you make money blogging or on Etsy you have to (ok. You really should) claim it on your taxes. Congrats! You are a business owner! :) There are lots of deductions you can write off. I'm not an accountant, so you should talk these over with yours but here are some general things that can help you save some money.

1. Internet related expenses. Without the internet - there would be no blog right? Hosting fees, domain name registrations, internet access, blogging software, picture storing, linky party subscriptions are all things that fall into this category. Don't forget selling fees - Etsy, pay pal, Ebay.

2. Your equipment. You need a computer right? Any upgrades (memory and so forth), software (including tax software, picture editing). And don't forget those cameras, sewing machines, and silhouettes!!

3. Do you tweet from your cell phone? You can use part of your cell bill as a write off.

4. Any new office furniture? {My table from the trash would not count here lol}

5. Supplies/Stationary. Supplies add up quickly. Fabric, thread, needles, pins, rulers, cutting mats, pens, staples, paint brushes, Stamps. Keep all of your receipts. Your accountant can help you go through all of them. I write notes on mine so I know exactly what project I bought each item for. If it's something like Mod Podge I just write general.

6. Advertising, Promo and Design. Do you advertise on other blogs. Ask for a receipt or print off your pay pal receipt. Advertising also include promos and giveaways! Did you have someone design your blog. Print off a receipt!

7. Travel and Entertainment. Did you go to a blogging conference? Conference fees, travel accommodations, and dining expenses can be written off.

8. Office Space. Do you blog from home? Do you have an office? You can deem that part of your home as your office and write off a small amount of your household bills for rent plus your utilities.

I know. It's a lot! Just remember to save your receipts! Make small notes on them. I put all of my receipts into a big folder and at the beginning of each new month I sort them and staple each category together. I also try to keep Etsy/blog stuff away from my personal stuff when I check out somewhere. For example I was buying tablecloths and towels for an order at Target but I also had milk and a movie. Just have them ring it up as 2 transactions.

I also keep a sales order book on my desk. (You can get them anywhere). Every time someone orders something or pays for advertising I write it down. I keep all of the receipts in the book. I also write how I got paid (pay pal, cash, check). Keeping them in one place makes it easy to have them ready to go!

Any tips you have for tax time?

Josh's Valentines...and fabric for sale!

2011-02-15T13:05:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot -- yesterday was Valentine's Day. DUH.

Josh's school is known as the Pirates. So I found some pirate treat bags at Hobby Lobby and we filled them with some candy. I just printed off some not so fancy bag toppers and stapled them.

They say you aarrrg a good friend.

I was trying to use his school's logo but I couldn't find a good one to use that wouldn't kill my ink.

And now that I look at this one I realize that it's not cross bones back there they are bats. Oh well. :)

He liked them.

And I didn't have to beg him to write his name a million times.

So you saw my table. Well today I was moving stuff into the new craft room but I had to unload the drawers of fabric. My table looked like this.

This fabric situation is out.of.control.

So come take my stuff!!!

1 yard of butterfly fabric
pre-washed
$5.00

I thought this was cute. No clue what my plans were for it. :)

pre-washed

2 yards

$8 (for both yards)

Kitty fabric

1 yard

pre-washed

Sand dollars

1 yard

pre-washed

Snowflake

pre-washed

half yard

princess dresses and shoes

1 yard

pre-washed

I'll post a few more tomorrow! If your interested email me or leave a comment!

I'm also getting rid of my old camera - canon A1100 IS.

Here is the amazon link

click!

Amazon sells used ones for $110. I'm just asking $50.

It's in great shape. Less than 1 year old. Comes in original box with the memory card, computer software and everything. I'd rather one of you all get it! Then I get a chance to see your pictures! :)

My Craft Room ... Help me pick a paint color!

2011-02-15T05:23:00.000-08:00

So I've finally decided to take my crafts out of the closet and turn our extra bedroom into a craft room. It's kind of a mess right now - computer, Ebay clothes, our holiday decorations. Plan is to put decorations in big closet that holds all my craft stuff and take all that stuff and put it in here.

But we don't have any furniture in here. And I really don't want to go out and buy furniture. I'm more concerned with buying bedroom furniture! {Which our bed/dresser should be delivered here in a few weeks!} Oh, and I want to get a pub table. And a new entertainment center. And then we will have to get the rest of the bedroom set. See? Furniture in here is waaaaaay down the list.

So when I saw our neighbors dragging this outside the other day I jumped on it. {Andy was way embarrassed that I was hauling in their trash} But this thing has potential!

The top is a little banged up.

But it has drawers!

Granted only 2 drawers because the 2 from the other side are missing. But either it's going against the wall OR I may have a plan for those.

Plus it has a chair. That I don't have a picture of. But it's got some character. I like it.

But it's perfect. I can put my sewing machine on it. And my cutting mat. And I have room for my Cricut. And just, well, room.

Million Dollar Question: What color do I paint it?

Blanket Tutorial

2011-02-14T10:04:00.001-08:00

So this week I wanted to do a blanket! I made it about a week ago. And I went to upload my pictures and <duh>. I had to erase them when I put my memory card in....

my BRAND..... NEW.....CAMERA. {Crowd cheers. Or at least I do.}

Yup. Happy Valentine's Day! Andy got me a Nikon D3100. And I love it.

So it's a good thing it's as basic as basic gets. Maybe just something you wouldn't have thought of to do.

Is that a table cloth? Why yes it is.

And all you do is take a table cloth (I got this one at Target for about $4 on clearance. The thicker ones work best!)

Lay it out right side up. Take a piece of fabric (I used 1 yard of fleece...I stocked up when Joann's had it for $3 a yard!!) pin it together. Sew leaving a small opening. Trim your corners. Flip and sew it up.

Sound boring? No way! This is perfect for storing in your car. Put the tablecloth side down when you take the kids to the park. Your blanket won't get all muddy.

Do your kids play sports? Well, it always seems to drizzle when it's game day. Put the fleece side down to keep you warm and when the rain hits the tablecloth side it keeps you dry!

Kids having a sleepover and want to eat in the living room in front of the TV? Put this down tablecloth side up! No juice spilling on your carpet. Wipes right off.

MACHINE WASHABLE (make sure you check your tablecloth package to double check!)

I love these blankets!

Remember to check out My Vinyl Designer for all the latest in Vinyl! :)