The Sweet Spot

Book Review: All Things Paper

2014-01-13T15:12:00.000-05:00

Hello blog-land!

Today I'm sharing a review on Ann Martin's book "All Things Paper". I've had the book in my possession for a few weeks now and have looked over it a few times.

I hadn't tried my hand at any projects because I've been suffering from SEVERE tendonitis in my wrist due to all the twisting and pinching that quilling involves. But I decided to sacrifice my hand and give 2 of the book's projects a try.

I chose two of the jewelry projects designed by Ann herself. The instructions were SUPER detailed and easy to follow. It took me about an hour and a half to complete the two projects, but I was lacking some of the supplies so I had to brainstorm my way around it.

The first project is the "Teardrop Orb Pendant". A very easy project, even for a beginner quiller and the finished product is pretty great. My mother-in-law fell in love with it so I gave it to her.

The next project was the "Antique Key Pendant". From the moment I laid eyes on it I knew that I wanted to make this one. I didn't have enough of the paper required on hand so I brainstormed and ended up using strips from my handmade paper stash. For the top part I had to use two different colors, a grey and the green. But all in all I really love the way it turned out. The one in the book looks like an actual gold key. Mine looks a lot more like paper, but I think it's pretty charming.

I didn't notice any use of a circle sizer and Ann also uses a needle tool a lot. Needle tools require lots of wrist action, so the body of my key turned out kind of wonky. But some people are really good with the needle tool.

All in all I love the projects I tried and I'm motivated to try a few more, like the "Sticky Notes Notepad Holder". These are great projects for a lazy Saturday afternoon and many of them can even be made with/by kids. There's something for everyone from a beginning paper crafter to an experienced one.

Ann's book is available on Amazon here.

On another note, I'm working on getting my hand all better so I can unveil the Sweet Spot's new direction soon. Life has me quite stressed and busy but I need to keep my paper crafting in it cuz it makes me happy!

I hope January is treating you well and that none of you froze from the arctic weather we've experienced. Until later, my peeps!

Stay Sweet!

Creative Paper Quilling

2013-11-05T08:01:00.003-05:00

The day has finally arrived when I can share with you more details about the book project I took part in a few months back.

Many of you are already aware that there is a new quilling book available from Annie's called Creative Paper Quilling. It is a truly beautiful book authored by Ann Martin of All Things Paper. There are tons of gorgeous projects inside ranging from beginner to advanced.

I was approached to create a project and I just decided to create one of the many projects that I have floating around in my head. It's on-edge quillography but I implemented an easy way to get those letters just right. There are detailed step-by-step instructions, templates, and material sources in the book. No detail was spared. You can order your copy here.

Here's a more detailed shot of my project, which just so happened to make the cover art. I remember the day that Tanya Fox, Editor at Cardmaker, told me that my project had been chosen for the cover. I screamed for a few minutes and then immediately shared it with my hubby.

Then, a few weeks ago I got a google alert and saw the cover for the first time. Again, I screamed for a few minutes and even scared one of my kids out of the shower! HA! The project went by pretty quickly. The flowers took the longest to make and once they were done I was able to assemble the letters and the other elements in the same day.

I have yet to receive a hard copy but I've seen many of the images from inside and I can tell you, it's truly a beautiful book!

Another quiller that took part in the book is my neighbor Linda Krieg (she and I live in the same town in NYC - can you really say town here?). Go on and take a look at her blog to check out her project. She can be found at My Quilling Nest.

I hope you guys have a lovely first Tuesday in November! I know I've been pretty scarce with my blog posts lately, but this is just the way life is panning out right now. I'll be sure to share any news or projects whenever I can. But, in any case, stay SWEET my peeps!

Oh! I'm back on Instagram! Be sure to follow me. An icon with the link is on the sidebar.

Paper Craspedia

2013-09-24T15:51:00.000-04:00

Hello, all!

Today I want to share a super quick and easy tutorial on how to make non-dust-collecting craspedia. I've had these pics in my computer for a LOOOONG time so I thought I'd take advantage and post them today.

I've seen lots of tutorials for Felt Billy Balls, (a.k.a Billy Buttons) which happen to be super cute, but you know me and dust. I like to make things that are damp-wipe-friendly. That way everything is clean and dust mites have to find somewhere else to live.

You will need:

Small sytrofoam balls (about 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter)
Paper Mod Podge (truthfully, I think you can use any Mod Podge)
Flocked Stems - Okay, here's a hard one - I got these at West Elm ages ago. But you can use regular florist wire or any nice green stem-y looking thing you can find laying around - be creative!
Paint brush
Bright yellow mulberry paper - found at any craft store

Now the fun begins! Seriously you're gonna slap yourself once you realize how easy this is!

Stick the stem into the styrofoam ball
Cover the ball with Mod Podge
Stick the mulberry paper all over it - I rip it into small pieces, but you can do one fell swoop, if you prefer
Put tons more Mod Podge on top
Let dry

I love the little pop of color they add to a corner and, even more, I love the fact that I made them. There's nothing better than looking around your home and seeing things that mean something to you. Be it pictures, artwork, handmade projects or gifts from loved ones. I remember Nate Berkus was on Oprah one time and he said that all homes should have "soul" and I think that these things definitely add just that to any space.

More news soon. Perhaps some of you have inadvertently seen the news, if you subscribe to google quilling alerts. Just waiting for the right time to share. Stay tuned and have an awesome last week of September!

Remember me?

2013-08-29T17:07:00.000-04:00

Hello, all!

I can't believe it's been almost 3 months since I last posted anything. I'm so sorry. This Summer has flown by and I can't even remember what happened. I've missed you!

I guess I've been adjusting to my new work schedule. I did get a large order in July and that has had me busy, too. It seems like after the book project and the craft fair, I just fizzled out and found myself in desperate need of a break. Unfortunately, life doesn't really give you many breaks.

On another note, I have reluctantly become a vegetarian. I got really sick about a month and a half ago and I realized I needed to do something drastic. So I've also been busy with trying to feel better and finding healthier options that'll make vegetarian living easy for me and my family. They can have meat whenever they want, but I'm not cooking it! I'm happy to report that I am actually feeling better. Still not 100%, but I can feel a difference. When you have a chronic illness, you kind of get used to always feeling crappy. I don't want to feel that way anymore, so I keep trying to find ways to get better. Here's to not giving up!

Ok, in paper related news (cuz I know that's what you're here for) I'd like to share my first pattern with you all here on this blog, as well as some work-in-progress pics of that order I've been trying to hammer (or, roll) out.

I created this card for some friends who just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. I figured it was a great time to clear my head of all the cameras I've been rolling and do something different. It was so easy I figured I'd share the pattern with you all:

You will need:

9 strips of white quilling paper

1 small sheet of white metallic paper

a tiny flower punch

2 strips of black quilling paper

1 strip of dark brown quilling paper, or black, yellow or orange (depending on hair color)

1 strip of peach (or brown) quilling paper

Quilling workboard or ruler

Tweezer to handle small pieces

Your favorite white glue

So, for the cake I made 4 layers (yum). The bottom layer is made up of 3 strips. I didn't use the quilling board for this one because I wanted it to be big. So I just allowed the strips to roll out as I controlled them a bit with my fingers. I think a 1 3/4 - 2 inch circle would work great.

The second layer gets 2 strips and, also a bit bigger than the number 0 circle (1 inch) on the workboard. Probably about 1.5 inches.

The third layer is also 2 strips but this time I used number 0 on the workboard (1 inch).

The last layer is 1 strip and I used number 1 on the workboard (3/4 inch).

You don't necessarily have to have a workboard. You can use a ruler and just allow the coil to relax up to the desired measurement. But workboards are really convenient to use, especially if you're making more than one of anything.

Now that you've got all your circles, you can then shape them into rectangles. Pinch into a marquise and then pinch again at 2 more points. For more on making rectangles and most other shapes, click here.

Now you just glue all your pieces in ascending order. Punch out some tiny flowers and assemble on the cake in whatever pattern you like.

For the bride I used 1 strip in the size 1 circle (3/4 inch) and made an isosceles triangle. I used half a strip of peach quilling paper in the size 3 circle on the board (1/2 inch). I cut an extra flower out for her hair and added a tiny bit of bling for the center. I created her hair by using two-half strips of brown quilling paper, size 2 (5/8 inch) on the board and creating very double-curved marquise shapes.

There is no guide for this. Just keep shaping your paper.

It'll do what you want it to, trust me! ;)

For the groom I simply used 1 strip of black paper at size #1 on the board (3/4 inches) and shaping it into a long rectangle. He also got the same size head as the bride a full size 3 on the board. I made his hair with an inch of black paper that I zig zagged to make a spiky 'do. His bow tie was the cream on top of the whole deal because it took me the longest to figure out.

Use half a strip in the size 5 circle (3/8 inch) created a tight rectangle and then pinch the middle part in with a tweezer (step 4 in picture below). Also pinch in the sides with your nail to create a bow effect (steps 5 & 6 below). I used a tiny strip of paper I cut in half length-wise as the center of the bow. Glue that to the center and there's your bow!

Voila! Your cute wedding/anniversary card.

It was nice to make something different and with no pressure for time or preference. Anybody else ever feel that way?

But, I still have 20 calendars to churn out so I have to say bye for now. Here is a compilation pic of the 60 cameras I had to make for the card portion of the order. Now I have to finish 240 more cameras. You gotta laugh it off and keep on rolling!

I have lots more to catch up on, like my recent trip to Chicago, my special news about the book project and even special-er news about the Sweet Spot and a few changes coming soon.

I can't promise any specific dates when I'll share these things, but I do hope to do so very soon. Enjoy your last week of Summer, if you're in the North, and make it a SWEET one!

Please note: The pattern shared if for personal use ONLY. Please do NOT sell items with this design on it and do not redistribute these instructions without proper accreditation. Thank you!

My First Craft Fair

2013-06-04T14:14:00.001-04:00

Man! What a weekend! It was like a whirlwind. It was my 15 year Anniversary last Thursday. I worked till 7pm on Friday and then hubby and I were taken out to a delicious latin restaurant by some friends where I had some delicious mofongo that I'm still thinking about and 2 passion-fruit mojitos. I felt like I was back in Puerto Rico. I could almost feel the warm tropical breeze. There was even a live band playing music, and lemme tell you, they did a GOOD job! I only wish I had had the energy to take advantage and dance with hubby (didn't happen).

Saturday was also a busy day as I mentally stressed-out and ran around trying to prep for the craft fair and clean up my house that has been in chaos since I started working. And Sunday was the day! My very first craft fair. Here are some pics of my first-ever booth:

I was so nervous at first that I felt sick. But as the day passed, the nerves got less and less and I was able to just enjoy being there. Hubby was a champ and he was with me the whole way through and kept telling me to calm down. We also had some friends drop by and it was really nice. They got to enjoy some beer and the sunny day and show me some support. The place got pretty packed more towards the end and there was even some dancing going on.

I'm not sure if this is the market for me, even though I did enjoy my experience. The people were definitely more interested in the beer. One of my neighboring vendors said that I would sell out in Brooklyn. But, for some reason, Brooklyn really scares me. I just don't feel confident enough yet. I love my cards and they come straight from my heart but I'm also really sensitive about them.

I guess I'll just have to psych myself out to take the leap. There is a Summer Market in Williamsburg and I'll have to pray and think about it. Surprisingly, the fee is pretty reasonable. But I'm glad I put my toe in the water and tested it out. It felt really good when people would pass by and crack up at my cards. That was awesome. And nobody believed that the rings, pins and earrings were actually paper. That was awesome, too!

That was my weekend. How was yours? Have any of you had a craft fair experience like this? Do you think I should take the leap? Your feedback would be awesome!

Signing out for now. Stay Sweet my peeps!

New Newbies

2013-05-21T19:00:00.000-04:00

I know you guys are expecting an update from the craft fair. Unfortunately, it was cancelled due to terrible weather. BUT, it was rescheduled for June 2nd! WOOT WOOT! To be honest, I was really happy it was rescheduled. Hubby was way more disappointed than I was. It gives me more time to add inventory as well as to mentally prepare.

I mentioned that I had created a few new cards for debut at the fair. So I'm sharing some now, since I've let you down with deets on the craft fair.

Here are a few new guys. There are still more that I haven't photographed yet.

Bikes here

Snaps here

Thanks here

Click here

I'll be back to share the others soon. I hope you're having a great week so far and that it only gets better!

Stay SWEET!

✿ I'm really flattered and humbled if you like my designs. But, please refrain from copying or replicating any of my cards/designs/phrases in any way without prior explicit permission and/or proper accreditation. I do NOT ever grant permission to anyone to use or replicate my designs for profit or sale. Please respect my art and my ideas. I am more than happy to share ideas and inspire, but I am not okay with being copied. Thank you! I really appreciate your integrity.

~Sandy

Astoria Outdoor Market

2013-05-15T15:29:00.002-04:00

Phew! Have I been running around like a chicken without a head! (Poor chicken.) I am still not done with all my inventory, but I know I will get there. (::Fingers tightly crossed::)

I just wanted to check in and give you guys the details for the craft fair.

It's THIS coming Sunday, May 19th, 2013

Location: Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
29-19 24th Avenue
Astoria, New York 11102

Phone: (718)274-4925

Hours: 1-6

I am diligently working on a display. I want it to be simple but eye-catching and budget-friendly. (Not that easy!)

I found some awesome display props at Michael's and I can't wait to figure out how to set them up.

I have a few new cards debuting at the craft fair as well as some oldies but goodies. I am also in the process of training for my new job. Exhaustion is the order of the day. But, I'm keeping my head up and hoping for a great experience.

I'm signing off for now, but if you do decide to come, please let me know that you follow my blog/facebook/whatever. It'd be awesome to see you there!

I'll try to have hubby take some pics of the event so I can share it with you all.

XOXO

~Sandy

Fringed Flowers - Mix it Up!

2013-05-09T15:13:00.000-04:00

So, while I was creating my project a few weeks ago, I discovered what (to me) was a new technique for fringing flowers. While most people use a 45-degree fringer with a folded strip, I opted for a regular un-folded strip and the result was pretty charming, if I do say so myself.

This is a "normal" 45-degree folded fringed flower:

Here's how you make these:

1. fold your strip in half (not that easy)

2. insert folded strip into 45 degree fringer with open edge on the top

3. fringe full length of strip and adhere a center strip (if using one)

4. begin twirling (I use a curling coach for fringed flowers - it really helps)

5. add a dab of glue when one strip meets the other and after every few turns

6. press center down and fluff up a bit

And here is my poofy princess:

Cute, right? Here's how to make it:

1. fringe two different color strips and align in opposite directions

2. glue one strip on top of the other

3. do it piece by piece so it's straight

4. add a center (if using one)

5. roll as normal and secure end

6. puff up

There are tons of tutorials online about how to fringe flowers. (I talk a little about it at the end of this post.) Google it! You'll be surprised at all the cool techniques you can learn. Best part? You don't need regular quilling strips. You can use whatever text-weight paper you have on hand. I used polka dotted paper as well as book pages. Simply cut your strips anywhere from 1 inch to 1/2 inch for folded and anywhere from 1 inch to 1/4 inch for non-folded fringed flowers. You don't need a fringer. You can use a bulldog clip or any straight-edge to guide your cuts. The key is not to cut all the way through the strip and try to keep your angle the same (that part's not that easy). Clip the open side and cut along the folded side. Spaced-out cuts will be less puffy than cuts that are closer to each other.

Experiment and have fun! You can't really make a mistake. It's all about what you like. Here's another alternative:

Simply adhere strips in alternating directions end-to-end. Add a center. if you like. They don't have to be perfect, remember, they're handmade.

Let me know if you decide to try it. I'd love to see what you come up with!

I may be away for a little as I am currently (failing at) trying to create inventory for my first craft fair. I'm nervous and excited. I also got a part-time job so that's not making it easier! Beacon's calling me y'all! Gotta try my best to see if we can get up there someday in the near future.

Signing out for now. Stay sweet and keep twirling them strips!

Oh! I got my fringer here (incase you're wondering where to buy one). They're pretty pricey but look around for sales. I got mine at 50% off. I love me a sale!

April Showers & May Flowers

2013-04-30T20:37:00.000-04:00

Boy, did April fly outta here! I can't believe it's been over a month since I last posted. I'm so sorry for neglecting you all. Here's what April was like for me:

I spent most of April working on a project I can't yet share. (But it is SO pretty!)
It finally decided to be Spring! (Yay!)
I made a nook in my garage for potting my plants.
I decided to take the leap and apply for my first low-key local craft fair.
I discovered the town that was able to steal my monogamous heart from NYC!
I was introduced to my new favorite cupcake shop. (here)
I come bearing gifts. ;)

That's a lot, right? The shop was closed for a few weeks because I really needed to concentrate on what I was doing (it was a book project - shhh). Much to my delight, the project turned out a lot like I had envisioned it. Best part is that I learned a few new things I can share with you over the next few weeks. (Spoiler Alert: I will be sharing a detailed post on fringing flowers within the next few days.)

Hubby and I are in desperate need of a vacation, but it ain't happening! So, we had a "stay-cation" weekend. We spent Saturday in Brooklyn at our favorite park. On Sunday, we drove up to the Hudson Valley to check out a town that my mother-in-law has been talking about. She's been saying that it has us written all over it. Well, we had to see that for ourselves.

This is what I thought: For the first time in my entire life, I felt the desire to move away from NYC! I am still reeling from that reaction, but it's been a few days and the desire is only getting stronger. It's a gorgeous little town called Beacon, and the views were so spectacular that I couldn't even bother to take as many pics as I usually do. It was like I had to soak it all in real-time and not through a lens. The town has everything I love. The perfect blend of nature, history, charm and city. Gorgeous mountain views right by the water. An artsy town with down-to-earth family-oriented people. Adorable charming little houses. I can go on...

I spent a long while chatting with the shop owner at Hudson Beach Glass. She was so helpful, honest and informative. I tell you, I can't stop thinking about this little city. Best part? I can drive into my concrete jungle in about an hour's time. How perfect is that?

We had the best food experience at The Hop and were treated to free live-music as we sat there, smelled the breeze (and the cheese) and sipped on some pretty delicious craft beer. Hubby and I just kept looking at each other in disbelief. Like, "Could this really be it?" I really hope so! Oh, and most people here aren't 20 and from Minnesota (nothing against Minnesota, but Brooklyn is looking less and less like Brooklyn every time I go - had to get that out!).

Only time will tell if the move is possible. For now, I have to remain content with what I have and work towards what may be in the near(ish) future.

Here are a few April pics from my (private) Instagram feed:

First row: 1-Me, hubby and one twin, 2-Brooklyn Bridge

Second Row: Chalk on Brick Wall, 2 - A BFF, Hubby and a twin

Last Row - A random wedding of a ballerina, and her beau,

a biker taking in the view, and Tillary Street by the Brooklyn Bridge

My potting station, blooming lilacs, sprouting hydrangeas, buttercups and blue skies.

Beacon, New York

Eggs over Polenta at The Hop

As a peace offering, I am sharing a free desktop wallpaper with you all. It's my first time doing this and I tried to make as many resolutions as possible. I'm so sorry I have been away from my blog, but I'm also really happy that some things have changed inside of me; and I actually feel a bit hopeful (something that has been missing in me for a while).

Click on your screen's resolution for download:

Enjoy the wallpaper and, most of all, enjoy every single day of May - rain or shine!

Plus, always stay Sweet!

~Sandy

Vintage is Modern

2013-03-27T19:47:00.001-04:00

I always say I was meant to have been born in another era. I absolutely LOVE mid-century styles. I always have. They were not afraid of beautiful, bright colors. Cut to the late 70's (when I was born) where everything was so depressingly muted and melancholy. Definitely born at the wrong time!

I would LOVE to have a retro kitchen with colorful appliances like these. (The blue and the green are my FAVORITES!) But, alas, I have to make due with what I have. So, I add little touches here and there to keep my home happy and bright. (I'm working on sewing a polka-dotted kitchen curtain out of a way-too-hard set of sheets I bought.)

I also got these cuties on etsy the other day:

Mason salt & pepper shakers here

Perhaps you have been able to tell by some of my tutorials that I love Mason Jars? I guess it's because of the retro vibe they have but even more so because they are super practical and affordable. Ever served yourself a drink that you didn't finish? Well, put the lid back on and store it in the fridge. In my house we use them as cups as well as storage containers. Nope, I have yet to actually use these canning jars for canning. Maybe one day. Some of my friends and family find it weird, as they are not "proper" cups. But, who said we have to be proper? I like 'em and it's my house, right?!

So, I found out that Ball Jars released limited edition Blue Mason Jars and I went on a mission to find them. Blue is one of my favorite colors so I had to have these. And, since they're limited edition, I had to jump on it fast. I know I'm not the only mason jar lover out there (hello, all of Brooklyn). So, SCORE! I got 'em here. They are much darker than they appear on the website (which I'm happy about). I didn't want the washed-out effect you can get with paint.

This isn't the only area where I'm more retro than modern (though, at this point they are one in the same). I have always had a love of ankle-straps and maryjanes. I even remember buying maryjane shoes when I was in grade school. I dunno what it is but I just really like them. I have to work on getting some more colors but the practical (read: boring) side of me justifies shoes that are black or grey or brown because they "go with everything". I gotta get over that.

No, I don't normally take pictures of my shoes. I was cleaning out my closet and decided to snap a pic when I realized just how many of my shoes look the same. What can I say? I'm consistent!

And, it doesn't stop there, I love a-line dresses and cardigans and black liquid eyeliner. Okay, enough about my mistaken birth year, I also have a little card I came up with.

It's not really new. The saying is, but the camera is more "adjusted". My original holga cameras are a bit too high to fit into the envelope comfortably, so I decided to flatten the lens part a bit. I also realized that I didn't have anything purple in my shop so I had to change that stat.

March is almost over and I'm still waiting for it to "go out like a lamb". I think most people are! I mean, snow and freezing temps have made it quite the lion. (I could get really cheesy here, but I will refrain.)

Here's to April showers and, even better, May flowers! WOOT WOOT! I'll be back soon with some more shares and a cute tutorial on something you might just be able to put inside say... a mason jar? LOL.

Stay SWEET!

~Sandy

Us against the world

2013-03-20T12:26:00.000-04:00

I promised I'd share some pics of another paper art project I created for my room. In true Sandy fashion, it's another quote from a Coldplay song. Last year, on our anniversary, hubby gave me a card with a hot air balloon on it and wrote some of the lyrics to this song. Being that we got married really young, we've seen our fair share of chaos swirl around us. But, it's still us against the world, hopefully forever. In 2 more months we'll be married 15 years!! YIKES! Where in the world has time gone?

Here's a pic of the project:

If you'd like to make your own (I promise, it's super easy) all you need is some pretty paper and a font you love. I Mod Podged different squares from my paper stash onto a cardboard backing in a (sort of) quilt style. I had cut the backing to the size of my frame. The frame (which is super old) was collecting dust behind my bed because the glass broke a long time ago. But, being that the paper was sealed with the Mod Podge, I don't have to worry about it getting ruined. The benefits of this stuff are many!

I then cut out the lyrics for the song from my Silhouette, using a free font I downloaded from DaFont called "Always in my Heart" (how fitting). If you don't have a Silhouette, I'm sorry! LOL! You can brave it and cut the font out with scissors or a kraft knife by printing it on some card stock. But I don't have that kind of skill or patience! Then you just simply slap on a ton more Mod Podge onto the letters (and under and next to) to adhere them to the background. I gave it two coats to seal because I like to play with glue like that. And then I had fun peeling the remnants from my hands, like you do in kindergarten. I never intend on growing up, get used to it!

Two weekends ago we took on a little project of repainting an Ikea bed that was given to us. Up until then we were sleeping on a full-sized (or, double) bed. You don't know what you're missing if you've never had it. But, BOY, what a major improvement it is to be sleeping on a queen-sized bed. It provides just enough extra space without it feeling like you are sleeping alone.

Bed- Ikea (no longer available in this style),
Curtains, Duvet & Small Pillow - Target Threshold Brand,
Shams - West Elm

The bed used to be Ikea's "black/brown" color but I wanted something more fun. I decided on green. I used Martha Stewart's "Bay Leaf" and I really love it! We simply sanded the bed down with some fine sand paper, wiped it clean and started painting. The paint did have primer mixed in so, it took about 3 coats to get a nice even finish.

My son is the lucky recipient of our old bed (which is actually still pretty new) as we have decided to give them each their own room. But, I'm gonna make them work for it for just a little while longer. ;) (That's what good parents do!)

I'm currently working on some orders and I'm hoping to get most of them out by this afternoon. In other words, I gotsta go!

Here's one last pic of part of an order that is going out as I thought it was fitting for this post, because love is all you need!

Card available here

Stay SWEET!

Word gets around!

2013-03-19T17:18:00.001-04:00

So, I tend to be really hard on myself when it comes to not being able to spread the word about the Sweet Spot as much as I'd wish. I have to be realistic. While I'd love to network my shop to death, I have to be honest with myself; there is NO way I could keep up with the demand for orders. Sometimes I feel kind of down about it, but then I remember that, as much as I love my art, it is not the first priority in my life. I love to do it, but it can't become more important than my family, my health, my friendships, and my spiritual life.

That being said, I discovered two awesome features that I'd like to share. One is my Cork Stamp project (quite the popular little fellow) featured in Marie Claire's Maison site (all in French). And the other is a contribution I made a long time ago to a book that was in the works.

The author approached me about some quilling tips and I acquiesced without a second thought. And I didn't really think about it again. I was looking through some old e-mails today and realized that the book was indeed published AND she used one of the tips I gave her (which, by the way, I received from Ann Martin). {I always believe in giving credit where it is due!} The author picked the Japanese quilling tool tip but I had also given her a few more.

Anyway, it's amazing to see my name and my shop's name under amazing artists like Yulia Brodskaya and the talented Erin Casner. I loved their tips and my favorite is a quote from Yulia where she urges artists to "Avoid Clichéd Imagery" and that "traditional quilling uses mainly florals" but that you can (and should) think out of the box to create a truly unique quilling experience. I have to agree! (As do my hedgehogs, foxes, vintage cameras and cassette tape cards.)

Finding these features really made my day as this wicked winter is not understanding that it's time for it to go! And I can see that it's true what they say: "Word gets around!" You can purchase the book here in either e-reader format or in paperback.

On another note: Due to Google Readers impending closure, I have added my blog to BlogLovin'. Feel free to follow and you can also import your usual blog feeds quite easily. I made this little icon on the sidebar today out of quilling paper (of course).

Hope your week is awesome and I haven't forgotten about my promises. More shares coming soon!

Stay Sweet!

Super Cute Style

2013-03-13T18:50:00.001-04:00

Hello peeps!

I have been volunteering this month so I've been pretty quiet. Sorry about that, it's my priority right now (along with these crazy kids). I've been peacefully filling orders but haven't had the time to share much on here. Just letting you know I am still very much alive!

So, I don't usually opt to do affiliate posts but this one is well worth it! Please note that there are affiliate links embedded into the post.

I actually just purchased these 2 new dresses from Modcloth because I'm feeling the mint green vibe so I thought it'd be great to share the opportunity to win some cool frocks with you guys.

I fell for this one too, but its no longer available (BOO!):

ModCloth has one of the coolest new contests going on the web right now! From today through 7 AM PST on 3/18, ModCloth is inviting community members to check out their brand new Style Gallery, upload a photo, love images and share the looks that inspire them throughout the week of 3/11-3/18. The image that gains the highest community-generated loves will win the top prize of a $100 ModCloth gift card! The other exciting part, you ask? Two random lovers of that winning image will also each score a $50 gift card! Head over to ModCloth right now to participate in the Style Gallery or maybe just check out all of the great fashions available!

Extra Style Gallery Details

How will winners be selected, you ask?
The owner of the image with the most ‘loves’ between 7 a.m. PT 3/11 and 7 a.m. PT 3/18 will win a $100 ModCloth gift card.

When will winners be announced?
ModCloth will contact the winners via email by 3/22 and announce the winners on the blog at 7 a.m. PT 3/27.

Have fun shopping and I hope you win some cuteness! I'll check in again soon with a quick post on some new paper art I made for my redecorated room. And, I'll be back regularly just as soon as the month is over with some new paper shares!

I have exactly 7 new quilled cards I intend on debuting soon. Can't wait to share them!

Stay SWEET!

Princess Bride and Kisses

2013-02-28T16:12:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel like a contradiction onto myself. I can be really girlie but I hate super girly stuff. Doesn't really make sense, right? I love pretty things and flowers and, yes, I admit I even love me some Hello Kitty (in moderate doses) but puffy and pink and sparkly makes me kind of wanna barf.

Onto my conundrum. I was asked to make some cards for a princess-themed nail salon. Mind you, I think that this nail salon idea is super cool as it's for people who should still believe in princesses. It's a mani-pedi pampering place for little girls. (More info here.) Super cute. Now, if it were for full-grown crazy women stuck in their childhood, I'd totally have peaced-out and passed on the opportunity.

So, I was given a few ideas by the client, but I still felt a little bit stuck... until I remembered "The Princess Bride"! Now THAT is my kind of princess story. If you haven't watched it yet, stop reading this post and do it!

Okay, so, here are 2 of the 6 cards I made for this theme. I don't recall any frog princes in the movie, but frog princes and princesses quintessentially belong together.

There are more princesses in different colors and hairstyles, but pink seemed to be the leading lady. Can you guys believe that tomorrow is March 1st?! WHAAAAA?????

Stay Sweet (and, if need be, say princess-y)!

On the Table

2013-02-27T16:50:00.001-05:00

I've been working on some orders and I've also been taking time to jot down new ideas. I'm kind of starting to get bored of making the same cards over and over again. I'm super happy that people love them, but I need change.

And, to be honest, I've been really bummed about continually finding my designs all over the internet being sold by others. I've even entertained the idea of closing shop/blog/social media. But I know that wouldn't make me happy and I think I'd feel even more defeated if I did that. I just feel like Beyonce who was quoted the other day as saying "I'm an artist, I'm sensitive about my {stuff}!" (Though, she didn't say "stuff".) I am really sensitive about it and I cant pretend that I am not. It would be dishonest for me.

We'll see what happens... I have some funny cards in my head (and on my phone's notepad) and hope to be taking the time out to make them happen soon.

Here is what's "on the (work) table". There's a song by A.C. Newman with that title. It's what I thought about before I wrote the post.

These bridesmaid cards have been a huge hit.

This order was a custom order of assorted colors.

I had fun picking the coordinating colors and patterns for the envelope linings.

This was a 5 for $30 deal. I think it's a great deal (but maybe I'm partial).

In happier news, I just came back from my backyard and I saw all the buds starting to come up and life being breathed back into the garden. But, I also saw that I have a LOT of work to do back there! I am SO looking forward to Spring.

I hope that none of you are of the unfortunate many that are buried under multiple feet of snow. But if you are, lift up your heads, your liberation is near! ;)

Stay Sweet my peeps!!

Look at the stars...

2013-02-21T15:49:00.000-05:00

That's an excerpt from the song "Yellow", by Coldplay. My hubby has always loved that song, but I haven't. I always thought Chris Martin sounded like he was singing in the shower. And then, at my first-ever Coldplay concert, I "got" it. And I actually cried. I guess being there live and feeling his emotion when he sang the song made it "click" for me.

A few months ago we attended our second-ever Coldplay concert here in Brooklyn at the new Barclay's Center. Again, it was magical. Chris may not be the most skilled singer, but, for me, the emotion and energy he puts into his songs and performances has quickly made the band one of my top 5 favorites.

Music is and always has been a sort of fuel for me, especially creatively. Yesterday I was on my monthly Target haul (you know, soap, shampoo, detergent...blah blah) and I came across a quilt I loved. It's not super bright but it is colorful and I quickly made up excuses in my head to purchase it. (Have you guys checked out the new "Threshold" brand? Sheesh! It's gonna make me really broke!) Turns out that I got 2 free $5 Target gift cards and I had cash in my pocket. (I can excuse a purchase if I use cash.) So I decided to get it. I'd been wanting to change up my room a bit because at this point in the winter I start to get real antsy for Spring to come. (How on earth am I gonna mesh Coldplay and a quilt?) LOL! Hold on!

Okay, so I decided that I needed something special and meaningful for my room. So I took an old Ikea frame I've had for well over 10 years and I created some Typographical art in it to match the quilt. And guess what I put in there? Yup! Coldplay's "Yellow". I chose "Look at the stars, look how they shine for you". Hubby and I had decided on this lyric a while back and had originally wanted to purchase wooden letters and paint them and mount them up on the wall (work) but (this is a long story...) I contacted a seller on etsy that had customizable typefaces and they never got back to me, so the idea fizzled out... until yesterday.

Best part is that it was.... FREE! Woot Woot! I'm on a free rampage lately. Why not use crap you already have peeps?

So, I used my Silhouette and cut out the letters in 3 different typefaces along with some stars. My fave is the word "shine" because it's in a metallic grey paper and when you stand at the right angle it's really shiny (it's the little things). :)

The 3 fonts used were "Billabong", "Zapfino" and "Special Elite". All free fonts I got either from google or Dafont.

Bed from Ikea, Shams and Pillows from West Elm & Quilt from Target

I think I have to go back and choose a darker paper for the word "stars", but for now I'm happy to have a fresh new look in my room. Here are some pics from the concert that I never shared with y'all because the day after was when we were all struck with the Plague of 2013.

Any new paper-centric decorating happening in your end of the globe? I hope you're warm and snow-free. But if not, put on some Coldplay and you should warm right up! ;) Stay Sweet!

AGAIN?!

2013-02-11T21:45:00.001-05:00

You know, I wish people would really think long and hard about what it feels like to be imitated without wanting to be. It is normal that we seek out people whom we'd like to be like. But it is also important that we remember that everyone is an individual.

I have been copied time and time and time again and I can't stress to all of you how absolutely UNFLATTERING it is. Instead of feeling inspired, people have directly ripped off my designs and then acted as if they were the clever ones.

The wonderful artist Amna Al Fardh just informed me that the Spring lady portrait that I created was not only copied, but then the person was thanking people for their compliments of "her work". SERIOUSLY?!

If only she had contacted me and asked and then given proper credit for the idea, this wouldn't even be an issue. Once again, I am truly disheartened at the lack of integrity that exists in the so-called "creative" quilling community.

If the sole purpose of you visiting my blog or shop is to copy my designs, I BEG you, please don't bother to follow me. I am not the only person who feels this way. A true artist knows how many hours and feelings and emotions are involved in creating original content. I have read countless blog posts on the same subject matter. It is NOT flattering at ALL! It is intrusive and disrespectful and disheartening. Copying an artist does not make you an artist, It makes you a copycat!

As the picture shows, this isn't me overreacting. Mine is the one on top. This person purposefully and willingly sat down and completely copied my design and then proceeded to call herself an artist and take credit for the work. Instead of creating something out of her own imagination and truly being inspiring, she chose to take the easy route and just sit back and do what's been done.

To my fellow quillers; do you not appreciate when other quillers share tutorials and techniques? Do you not appreciate when works are shared for inspiration? If this practice continues, no one will EVER want to share their work or ideas or techniques because they'll be too worried that someone else will then lay claim to their ideas. And, to be honest, I think I have had my fill of copycats. At this point, I regret ever sharing anything!

As Amna put it, "I honestly feel bad for you Sandy because your designs are the most copied over the net from what I observed the past few years." Perhaps someone else may be flattered by that fact, but I am not and I have never invited that kind of attention. I have always had my copyrights clearly on my blog and, I now have watermarks on all of my pictures. This is completely unacceptable.

UPDATE: This is what the person claimed, followed by my response. Please note that there was absolutely no mention of her copying it from anywhere AND she is one of my followers, she could easily have sourced it! So, I'm not buying her story.

Artsy Fartsy

2013-02-08T12:21:00.000-05:00

Remember how I said that last Friday I got hit by the art bug? Here are some canvas boards I painted. I don't even know where this came from. And, I know they are way amateurish but it was so awesome to sit down with my cheap brushes and my craft paint and just get it out. I don't even know what "it" was but I know I felt so much better when I was finished.

I made these along with the Mason Jar Soap Dispenser. I have no idea where I will put them but I love how random they are and how I didn't even have my computer on for "inspiration". I think they are great representations of my style because I have no defined style. I love so many different things that I can't just close myself into one category.

You know how you visit some shops on etsy and people just have it all perfectly matchy and so put together? I just can't be that way. I have even seen shops where there are only 3 colors. The shop looks great, by the way, but how on EARTH can anyone just pick 3 colors?

Anyway, I've rambled enough. I also wanted to share some snippets of my calendar in use by a photographer. It was gifted to her and I stumbled upon her Instagram account because someone else whom I follow liked the picture. When I realized it was my calendar I became absolutely giddy. Here are the first two months of January and February by photographer Charlotte Hu.

Today I'm cleaning the house, doing laundry and filling all open orders. I want to chillax this weekend with nothing to worry about!

Being that "Nemo" is in town (though he is proving to be pretty docile so far) I think it'd be great to spend the weekend making more things. It's a great excuse to lock myself up in my studio and play with all the little goodies I have stored away in jars and boxes. We'll see what happens...

Stay safe and warm! I hope Nemo is nice to you and I REALLY hope he doesn't knock down the poor ailing tree that is in the front of my house. That poor tree used to be so strong and beautiful. But after so many crazy storms it's looking kinda frail. Pray for our tree y'all! ;)

Keep it SWEET!

DIY Mason Jar Soap Dispenser

2013-02-05T14:45:00.000-05:00

So, I don't really know what happened to me on Friday, but I had a huge urge to just make stuff. Nothing paper-related (shocker). I just needed to purge some creative energy. So, I did!

I had an old mason jar that I got from rinsing out a spaghetti sauce jar. Sometimes those jars can be kind of nice. I had it laying around empty for a long time but I just really liked the jar (don't ask, it happens). There are only two jar sauces that I buy at this point and they are both from Trader Joe's, so I know for a fact that this one has been around for some time. I googled some images for sauce jars and I think this was the brand as it is the only one I can find that uses the square-ish shaped jars.

Anywho, I was on Craftgawker and found a really cute tutorial on how to make a dishwashing liquid dispenser from a mason jar. That tutorial uses a regular 3-piece mason jar like the ones I pimped here.

Being that I had this one laying around I decided it'd be great to use as a dispenser because it's huge and I wouldn't have to refill it nearly as much as I do my old one. (Which was pretty sad, come to think of it.) Aaaaand, the lid for this jar is one piece so, it's much easier to do.

So, you will need:

a clean and un-smelly mason jar *
an awl or something sharp to make a hole in the center of your lid
cutting pliers or sharp pliers that you can use to snip the aluminum
a clean lid with the rubbery underside removed and discarded
paint to decorate your lid
glaze sealant
pump (I used an old pump form a lotion bottle with the "straw" from a shampoo bottle)
a piece of cork cut to fit inside the pump
x-acto knife
sharpie marker

*tip: wash your jar with soap and really hot water and then rinse with cold water to remove smell

Here we go:

Make a hole right in the center of your lid with your awl. Make it as wide as possible. With your pliers you will begin to snip pieces from the jar until your hole is wide enough to accommodate the widest part of the soap pump. Once you're there just make sure your hole is as smooth as possible by snipping away all the pieces you've cut.

Paint your lid as cute as you like. For the base layer you will need at least 3 coats of paint in order to cover the lid. Let it dry in between. Be patient and it'll all be worth it. Once the base coats have dried you can decorate your lid with some more paint. I opted for cutesy, but you can do some really cool designs if you plan. Allow to dry and then seal with a coat of glaze. Paint and seal the underside of the lid as well. I used this brand, which I found at Michael's.

The glaze is really important as it will make the lid waterproof. Being that it will consistently be getting wet, you want it to be free of mildew or mold (it is a tin lid, after all).

Slice a piece of cork about 1/2 inch thick. (I used a champagne cork.) Cut a hole in your your cork the same size as the hole you made for your lid. You can first mark it off with your sharpie pen and then cut it out with your x-acto knife. You will use this cork as a sort of washer in between your pump and the lid. It also gives you a place where to add more sealant to create a tight seal.

Once your first coat of sealant is dry on your lid you can insert the pump. Now, what I did was use the same glaze sealant to create a seal around the pump so that it adhered. You can also use some super glue to do the same. Use what you have. I didn't buy a thing to make this soap dispenser. In order to keep the pump tight against the lid while it dried, I used a bulldog clip and hung the pump over the jar until it was set.

Fill with your favorite soap either in your bathroom or your kitchen. My friends say that it looks like I paid $30 for it in Anthropologie. LOL! But I didn't spend a penny!

Have fun making your dispenser and share pics and/or tips!

Stay SWEET!

Arrested

2013-02-01T17:21:00.000-05:00

My mom has this saying that she always uses with me. It's in Spanish, she says: "Cuando no estas presa, te andan buscando." Loosely (and not literally) translated, that means that when I'm not under arrest, I am being sought. I am on the most wanted list for craziness.

I was fine on Monday, and then BAM, I caught the second flu that is gracing NYC. The dreaded stomach flu. BLAH! (That is literal.) I have to say, I take delirium and fever and coughing up a lung over puking my head off any day.

Anyway, thankfully it was only a 48 hour thing and I figured out how to help myself because I was quickly becoming dehydrated. I try, as much as possible, in my delicate state (of chronic pain) to stay away from medicines and chemicals. I am just not a fan of all the side effects and other issues caused by traditional medicine. I have enough issues. I didn't want Kaopectate or Milk of Magnesia. I wanted something natural that would heal me and not just cover up one bad thing with another (namely, chemicals).

So, I looked online and figured out how to make natural Gatorade, aka electrolyte drink. It was easy enough for me to clumsily mix together in my fog brained, fatigue laden state. So, I'm sharing the recipe so that you too can make it and stay away from all the "Red No. 9's" and partially hydrogentated whatevers.

"Natural Electrolyte Drink"
1 Quart of filtered water (I prefer cold water to tepid water when I am nauseous - but that is up to you)
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (can be from concentrate if you have no other choice)
1/3 cup raw honey (must be raw)
1/2 tsp. sea salt (must be sea salt)

Mix everything together and make sure the honey and salt are dissolved. Drink at your leisure, but DRINK IT! Have a banana or some toast (if you can) and stay hydrated. AND REST, you want this thing to go away as soon as possible! (TRUST!)

Another alternative is to drink coconut water. I tried that also and I must say it quickly alleviated my stomach cramps (which were driving me bonkers) and my headache. It's cool, refreshing AND good for you.

So there, now you know what to do if the bug gets you.

Moving on: Here are two more new cards I designed and listed recently. I really love quilling, but lately the whole card thing is kind of not doing it for me like it used to. I hope it's a phase...

find card here

I got more supplies for calendars so, if you're a procrastinator, don't miss out and order your now! I can make it start on any month you choose (cuz I'm cool like dat).

find calendar here

Now I will get back to painting. I am DIY-ing a super cute dish soap dispenser because I am tired of refilling the little tiny one I have had for years. If all goes well, I will share pics and how-to's next week. I got the idea from Craftgawker, but you know me, I had to change it up.

Have a wonderful weekend, my SWEET peeps!

Love and Songs

2013-01-28T17:45:00.000-05:00

It's no secret that music fuels my creativity. My mom is usually surprised by all the songs I know, and can recite, word for word. There isn't just one type either. It's a mish mosh of generations and genres that can make me happy or melancholy in an instant.

I guess that has to do with being part of the "MTV" generation. So sad that youngins today get this MTV. It's not even music television. Anyway, here are two new cards I designed, both using lyrics of songs I shouldn't know, based on my age, but I am very familiar with them anyway.

An ode to the Beatles, which I kind of love to hate:

Card available here

I made that outer heart shape well over a year ago. I was hanging up on a little tree in my studio. Yesterday I was kinda down in the dumps, so I decided to finally make this card, which had been printed out and patiently waiting for a really long time. All those colors make me smile. And, it also makes me think of that song from Les Miserables "A heart full of love". I tell you, I have a full-blown radio station up in my head.

Next card is an ode to the Doors, which were over before I was born. Boo!

Card available here

Most people are feeling lovey dovey these days. But, I feel lovey dovey all year long. I don't need the calendar to tell me when to send a card or let someone know I love them and I'm thinking about them. Every day is a special occasion peeps!

I have a few other new cards that I've listed, or will be listing soon. I'm also working on a few DIY's that I'd love to post soon, if only the sun would shine bright enough for me to take some decent pictures! (Come on SUN!)

I hope you're warm and toasty, wherever you are! As always, stay sweet!

Quilled Hedgehogs and Beer

2013-01-24T15:48:00.001-05:00

What a title, huh? The more I quill, the more I realize how random I am. It's pretty fun to be all over the place!

A few months ago I came across some awesome paper at The Paper Source. I loved the colors on it and decided that I wanted to use it as an envelope liner for a card related to beer. Now, not until about 3 years ago did I even drink beer. I always thought it was really disgusting. Turns out it's because my family has really bad taste in beer. LOL! A few friends introduced me to the wide world of beer. Little did I know that it isn't just about nasty colorful cans, it is actually quite an intricate science. I learned that I'm not fond of light colored beers. I am, in fact, drawn to darker ales and stouts. Who knew? My two easy-to-find faves are Newcastle and Guinness. But I'll settle for a Stella on a warm summer day (it's the only light-ish beer I'll drink). Nothing more awesome than a good cold beer while watching a Yankee game or a great concert.

Anyway, I am by no means a "drinker". But I have come to appreciate beer. Therefore I used it to create a card that's perfect for friends and a great thank you for when someone has "done you a solid". (For those who don't know, "do me a solid" means do me a FAVOR.)

Find card here

* It has come to my attention that there is a show that uses this term a lot. I have never seen it. I guess I'm one of the few people on earth who has actually heard this phrase used in regular conversation. Maybe it'll catch on now due to the show's popularity?

My second card is about hedgehogs. I know that anyone out there who is a quiller has come across these critters a lot! I never realized how cute they were. Being that everyone is thinking about being lovey dovey these days, I thought it was a good time to put it up in the shop.

Nothing better than a love-filled hug. Speaking of hugs... the weather here in NYC is ARCTIC! I hope it's warmer in your neck of the woods. I'm okay because I have lots of cuddling choices. 2 growing boys and 1 hubby. Thankfully, I don't have to suffer through the cold!

Stay warm and sweet!

Hello, 2013!

2013-01-10T17:13:00.001-05:00

Hello all! I know it's been a while. I've been laying around on my couch for the past few weeks as we all got hit with the "worst flu in history". It's been an entire month of coughing non-stop and germs galore. (Gross, right?)

But, I'm feeling much better (though not totally normal). I decided to come back and reopen my blog. I had it set to private for a while because I was making some changes. Take a look around and tell me what you think.

It's weird how I missed sitting here "talking" to you all. I wish I had awesome paper projects to share but alas, I do not. I haven't even really been in my studio because the couch was much more comfy. Hee Hee.

I decided to come back and share a delicious recipe I put together after watching a newscast on a store that makes vitamin drinks for people. It's become a super popular spot being that everyone is catching this evil thing over here in NYC.

It's like a hug in a mug. So that's what I'll call it!

Sandy's Hug in a Mug

2 cups almond milk

1 4-inch piece of ginger cut into smaller pieces

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sweeten with Honey to taste

I happen to like it spicy because I feel like it's curing my bronchioles, but you can adjust the spices to your liking.

Bring all ingredients to a slow boil together in a sauce pot for at least 15 minutes. Strain into your favorite mug and sweeten with honey. I can't tell you how warm and cuddly this makes me feel, and the best part is that it controls my cough!

Hopefully I'll be back to myself soon enough and I'll be sharing and posting more regularly. I hope you don't catch the flu, but if you do, give this a try, even my kids (who usually hate hot drinks) loved it! I'm happy to be back up and running and I'll catch you all back here soon!

I'm still working on a new header but haven't been able to get it together. For now it's the same old header but don't be surprised if you come back and it looks different.

Oh! One more thing! The Sweet Spot is now a ".com"! WOOT WOOT! No need to worry, your link will be redirected automatically, but if you want you can go ahead and change your bookmark to www.sweetspotcards.com. (So fancy, right?)

Make it a SWEET one!

Shifting

2012-12-11T15:39:00.000-05:00

Today I've been educating myself online. I wish I could say I somehow became more intelligent, but that hasn't happened. HA!

I did come across a quote, which I am in love with:

So true, if we try to stay standing on that one leg, or in our comfort zone, we will never really find balance. We will tire out and lose our footing, and then, SPLAT, there we are on the floor! LOL!

I've had a pretty great year in my shop. Not because I've made a million sales, but because I think I found what makes me happy and comfortable. I have had to close up many times for months on end, but that is me shifting. My balance is not as good as that of others but I can't spend time comparing myself to other people.

I'm feeling like I need a bigger shift to happen soon. I can't keep living in the same comfort zone. I want to shift and get comfortable in a different position.

So, it's that time again. Sweet Spot is closing up for a while. I don't know how long but I do know that it needs to be done.

I want to revamp my store and my blog but I need time to do that and I need to stay balanced. I'm so glad to have you all here watching me grow and change and I hope I somehow motivate you to do the same.

I will be closing shop on the 21st of December and when I reopen, you'll be the first to know.

Thanks so much for your continued support and I hope to see y'all soon with a new, deeper sense of balance.

Stay Sweet and make it an awesome December!

The Sweet Spot

Book Review: All Things Paper

Creative Paper Quilling

Paper Craspedia

Remember me?

My First Craft Fair

New Newbies

Astoria Outdoor Market

Fringed Flowers - Mix it Up!

April Showers & May Flowers

Vintage is Modern

Us against the world

Word gets around!

Super Cute Style

Princess Bride and Kisses

On the Table

Look at the stars...

AGAIN?!

Artsy Fartsy

DIY Mason Jar Soap Dispenser

Arrested

Love and Songs

Quilled Hedgehogs and Beer

Top Posts of 2012

Hello, 2013!

Shifting