The Kid Giddy Craft, DIY, Sewing, Recipe, Mom Blog by Kerry Goulder

Busy Monday: CHA 2012 Show Photos

2012-02-06T23:00:00.000-05:00

This was my second year at the Craft and Hobby convention. Last year it was in LA, CA. and this year they returned back to Anaheim, CA. It was quite a show.

I have said this to many people, and I'll say it here: If you are an artist or crafter and want to make a living doing what you love to do, then you need to attend the CHA show! No kidding! Ask me all the questions you want!

OK - so I know you just want to see all the photos that I have been formatting and uploading all day right?! (in between this and that and the other thing!) Well - here goes!

I'll start with the best news of all...I won the Designer Press Kit award. It's a really big deal, and I'm extremely grateful to have won! There are so many other talented designers out there, so I wasn't sure if all my hard work would pay off. But it did. Thank you to all the judges! (The Gnome girl was not included and not there. But it was her backpack and the contents that won them over....I guess!

Here I am before accepting my award, with Sarah Conrad-Ferm of November Oak (my associate for the show and my best friend since 3rd Grade! - yep - not many people can say that! She rocks!) and the after with my award in hand. Still doesn't feel real! It's just so exciting!

Here are some pictures of my travels to get to Anaheim and then once I was there. It's just so beautiful, I couldn't help but photograph the area! The colors are so amazing and inspiring!

I was one of many CHA Designer Members that took part in a Designer Display of Ornaments to benefit many charities (mine was for the Portable Playhouse), as well as participating in the awesome Flash Mob, all thanks to Charity Wings! If you don't know much about Charity Wings, please check them out!

(the flash mob Charity Wings pics are missing from my list...I'll add them in the morning - sorry)

Then of course there were all the beautiful things in the booths! And trust me folks - there was no shortage of spectacular this year - I just wasn't allowed to capture it all. Nor did I have that much time to capture it all!

Sarah became increasingly aware of the HUGE need for her to learn how to wet felt and needle felt (which reminds me I forgot to add some roving to her box of catalogs and goodies she couldn't carry on the plane! bummer!) So I put her pic next to the really cute awesome felted animals! They make felting molds for them. I LOVE it! (so does Sarah - can't you tell?!!)

The always lovely Anna Griffin (which by the way - have you entered the Anna Griffin Sewing Patterns and Fabric giveaway yet? it ends on Wed night! HURRY!). I love that I get to go into her booth and get big hugs from her. She really is just the sweetest person. I love working with her! Then I found a fun friend roaming around, the Cricut himself! I knew my girls would get a kick out of him! And all the little baby cricuts too...they are coming to get me! I tried to get one...or two - but they wouldn't give them to me so early in the show. I might have to call them now to get one!

And then of course the really awesome - oh so exciting T-Shirt Remix Contest I was privileged to be a part of!...And yes - I was a total dork and rocked out with the "air guitar" Westcott Scissors! Those things are awesome and I'm still waiting for them to mail them to me. From what I understand though...I'd have to ship them back after a certain amount of time. To the which I could not agree on!

And last but not least....the giveaway. We get so much stuff at shows. I have so many bags, I don't know what to do with them all. I usually give them to my mom and sister, but they have tons now too! So I'm doing a little giveaway of my CHA 2012 swag! The bags are awesome - the Make and Takes book is sweet! (my girls are much older than these projects - but it's really awesome for younger kids!!!) The Sizzix cards are actually a different project on each card! Fun tags and pins, a mouse pad, and scissor holster that I made in the Westcott booth! Have at it!

As I was going through all my photos, I thought I wasn't going to have that many...and last year I did one post for each day. So maybe I has less than last year? I don't know...but for as many as I have shared here...I hope you enjoyed it! And next year, I hope you'll attend too! Thanks for stopping by and again don't forget to enter for your chance to win the swag...and enter the Anna Griffin Sewing Patterns and Fabric giveaway!

Details of the Giveaway:
This giveaway will be open to US, Canadian, and European residents. (I'm not charging for the shipping fees - so I can't go crazy on that cost - sorry)
This Giveaway will be open from today, Monday February 6, 2012 10:00pm EST until Saturday Feb 11, 2012 11:59pm EST. Winner will be notified by email on the following Monday. You will have 24 hours to respond with the info so I can ship out your prize, or a new winner will be chosen.

If you win:
The winner will have to supply me (in a personal email after you have been notified as the winner) with your Full Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number & Email Address.

To Enter:
If you want a chance to win - you MUST leave A comment below (WITH your email address. Please understand that I really don't have time to go hunting for a way to contact you) If you forget and leave another comment with only your email address, in the hopes that will count as two - only your first comment will count).

For additional chances to win:

You can tweet about it with a link - you must include my twitter handle "@kidgiddy" (leave a comment here so it counts that you did)
You can visit my Kid Giddy Pinterest page and re-pin anyone of my Kid Giddy Designs Pins. Only the Kid Giddy Design Pins will be counted. (leave a comment here for it to count)

One last thing before you go...be sure to check out all of the other Designer Crafts Connection blog hop members to see more eye candy from the 2012 CHA Winter show! Good night!

[ DC Connection ]

[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

Busy Monday: CHA Celebration Giveaway - Anna Griffin Fabrics & Sewing Patterns

2012-01-23T11:51:00.001-05:00

The Craft and Hobby convention is just days away! I've been scrambling to get things ready and spending much needed time with my girls and having a date night with my hubby! It's been a great weekend, but now it's crunch time and....time for a giveaway!

Last year I went to the Craft and Hobby convention for the first time ever, and to celebrate all that I have accomplished in the past year...I'm giving away some Anna Griffin fabric and one of each of the patterns that I designed for her. These patterns debuted at the May International Quilt Market and I went to her booth and soaked up every bit of the sweat and tears that I poured into them! It was such a wonderful experience and I have truly grown from the opportunity! Thank you Anna!

So who's ready? who wants to win?...here's what you need to do for your chance to win a prize!

The Anna Griffin Decorative Fabric and Sewing Patterns GIVEAWAY!

PLEASE READ ALL THE "RULES" BEFORE LEAVING YOUR COMMENT! thx!

Here's what you can win*+:
1) 1- Carmen FQ pack - each set includes 11 FQ pieces from the Carmen Anna Griffin Decorative Fabric collection (2 WINNERS)
2) 1 - Francesca FQ pack - includes 6 FQ pieces from the Francesa Anna Griffin Decorative Fabric collection (1 WINNER)
3) 1 - Willow pack - includes 3 patterns from the Willow Anna Griffin Decorative Fabric collection, 1 yard of each (1 WINNER)
4) 1 - Sunflower Pillow Pattern (1 WINNER)
5) 1 - Peony Pillow Pattern (1 WINNER)
6) 1 - Scotty Dog Stuffie Pattern (1 WINNER)
7) 1 - Bone Pillow Pattern (1 WINNER)
8) 1 - Butterfly Pattern (1 WINNER)

All patterns include the instructions and the printed pattern pieces. All materials needed to complete the project are not included, but are listed on the packaging.

*Chances of winning are based on the number of entries. I will allow a person to win a maximum of 2 prizes each. Winners will be chosen at random using random.org

+Please include your top 3 choices if you win. I cannot guarantee you will get a prize from your top 3, but it just might help me in the random selection process. Thank you for understanding.

If you win:
The winner will have to supply me (in a personal email after you have been notified as the winner) with your Full Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number & Email Address.

Details of the Giveaway:
This giveaway will be open to US, Canadian, and European residents. (I'm not charging for the shipping fees - so I can't go crazy on that cost - sorry)
This Giveaway will be open from today, Monday January 23, 2012 12:00pm EST until Wednesday Feb 8, 2012 11:59pm EST. Winner will be notified by email. You will have 24 hours to respond with the info so I can ship out your prize, or a new winner will be chosen.

To Enter:
If you want a chance to win - you MUST leave A comment below (WITH your email address. Please understand that I really don't have time to go hunting for a way to contact you) If you forget and leave another comment with only your email address, in the hopes that will count as two - only your first comment will count).

For additional chances to win:

You can tweet about it with a link - you must include my twitter handle "@kidgiddy" (leave a comment here so it counts that you did)
You can blog about it (leave a comment here with a link)
You can visit my Kid Giddy Pinterest page and re-pin anyone of my Kid Giddy Designs Pins. Only the Kid Giddy Design Pins will be counted. (leave a comment here for it to count)
And click on the Kid Giddy Facebook update that mentions this giveaway and "share" it with your followers. It will show up as "1 person shared this" (or how ever many share it). Be sure to leave a message back here saying that you shared it and leave your facebook initials here for verification.

So are you ready??? Go!

Thanks for stopping by and entering my giveaway! If you have any questions about the giveaway you can click the contact me button up top and fire away! After you do make any one of these Anna Griffin patterns that I designed, please feel free to share your creations, by uploading a couple of my pics to my Kid Giddy Flickr Group! I just recently started the group, so I still need more company! If you've made something using one of my designs, or tutorials, please post it to the group! Good Luck and have a great week! Be sure to check back (click that follow button over there, or subscribe to my RSS feed) to keep up to date on all my happenings!

Giddy Up Friday: Snow People Chess Set, Crafts n' things

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Pin It

When I was younger, I remember going to visit my Great-Grandmother at her house. (I was young - I thought it was her house, but many years later found out it was not her house but my mother's Aunt's house). For the sake of the memory, I still call it her house. I remember in the front room a little table, with a checker board painted right on it. It was a small round table, just big enough for the board and some chess pieces (again from memory). I've always had a love of chess since learning it, but honestly don't play it all that often. I can beat my husband any time while playing Othello, but he often check mates me in Chess! Regardless of wether I win or lose, I still love the game. I love the pieces and I love the challenge and strategies.

When I went to visit my dad in Utah one summer, I went to his office at BYU and saw some chess pieces made from steel. There they were, lined up along the top of a desk or windowsill. They struck me as simple and beautiful, and I have wanted them ever since.

I don't have a machine that can turn a bar of steel into amazing chess pieces, but I had a vision of creating a kingdom of winter chess pieces with the wooden trees and snowmen that you'd find in any hobby store. I will be the first to admit that painting and stamping is not my go to medium, but once in a while I am smitten with an idea and must tackle it head on! You can find all the information for this project in the current Feb 2012 Crafts 'n things Magazine! (You'll even see it on the front cover in the top corner!) I hope you enjoy making your own set! If you have children, invite them to help or let them make their own! Here's what you'll need!...I bought all of my own supplies and got all the wooden pieces from a place online called craftparts.com. (I was not paid to say that)! Since crafts parts is no longer selling the tiny snowmen, you can also try this other website.

T-minus 5 days until I leave for the ever fun Craft and Hobby convention. Stress is high and there's still so much to do! Thanks for visiting, and it's almost time for that Anna Griffin pattern giveaway I mentioned last week! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for that post!

Have a wonderful week and come find me and my friend Sarah (November Oak) if you are attending CHA, we'd love to meet you! You can tweet me @kidgiddy to find me!

(PS...have you seen what my twin sister Sue, has been up to lately? Here's her latest project featured in the beginning of the same issue! - it's only a sneak peak - so you'll have to get the copy and check it out! - she's working on her blog, so please be patient with her...blogs are always "works in progress" esp when you still have little children at home under your feet! Just follow her anyway - she's worth it!)

Busy Monday: The Gnome Girls made it to STUFFED

2012-01-16T10:23:00.002-05:00

I've waited forever to share this awesome news...and then when I finally could, one thing lead to another, and I got sick for 6 weeks out of 7! I've been playing catch up ever since.
Some of you may recognize these little gnome girls from my Designer Showcase table last year at the Craft and Hobby Winter Show. And although that was their first "official" outing in public and away from their forest, their story goes much further back in time! These Gnome girls were based off of my twin sister Sue and I! She has always had a love of Fairies and I have always loved gnomes and all things small, cute, and imaginary (but real - always real).

I was so excited to submit these Gnome Girls (GNaomi and Willow) to be considered for the Winter 2012 issue of STUFFED Magazine and then almost missed the deadline thinking I could submit it via email. Nope. Not really! I frantically mailed them out over night at the last minute and they were still - miraculously - accepted for submission. I was beyond excited and hoped that didn't scar my reputation.
Then a couple of months later I was in the car with my family (not driving) and was checking my emails. I got an email from STUFFED and found out that my Gnome girls were going to appear in the Winter issue! I was so excited I cried. My daughters felt so bad that I was crying - until I told them why. Then they asked "well - why are you crying if you are so excited mommy"! Gotta love the things kids say! Excited just wasn't even a strong enough word for it!

Eventually I received an email with a PDF copy of the spread to proof. Again - so excited. Now it was real. No matter how many issues or publications I've seen my designs in, a new one is still so exciting and even validating. That I must be doing something right!

The other happy surprise I discovered after the publication was released on the Stampington website, was the surprise mug shot of my Gnome Girls on the Table of Contents too! These girls must have been so pumped and had so much fun at their photo shoot! lol! (they are real you know!)

I haven't decided yet if I will offer this pattern in my first sewing pattern book or online in my Etsy shop. So stay tuned! It will be available at some point! I promise.

Pin It

If you want to make Gnaomi & Willow's adorable tent, click this Mini Tent link to visit the Sew Mama Sew website, where it was a featured tutorial...for FREE! I love giving some things for free...I thought every little kid (and adult) should make a little tent like this one for all their imaginary (real) friends! It would make a great little house for a family pet too!

Thanks for stopping by my blog and for reading all my kid giddy news! I love what I do and love sharing it with all of my readers. I leave for this years Craft and Hobby Winter Show in just 10 days! So I have to get busy! Keep checking back for more fun stuff and my Anna Griffin Fabric and Patterns giveaway! You know - these yummy (Butterfly, Sunflower, Peony, Dog Bone & Scotty Dog) patterns....that's right! I have one of each pattern to dish out, and some awesome Anna Griffin fat quarter fabric bundles to some lucky readers! You won't want to miss it!

Have an awesome day and a wonderful week everyone!

Busy Monday: Journaling

2012-01-09T11:01:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago I was digging through some of my old "memory" boxes trying to find something I wanted to show my girls and happened upon my childhood sticker book, my old journal calendar, and a notebook I shared back and forth between my high school friend Sarah (everyday)! They were so excited to see these treasures from my childhood and younger years and so was I!

During this time of the new year, I try really hard to get back into the swing of journaling and being better about it, but I often overlook the value of it, and feel too overwhlemed by my to-do list. It almost always falls to the bottom of the list. I forget that it really can be so simple, and I'm grateful for these reminders of having "captured the moment".

I'm reminded that journaling doesn't have to be a huge scrapbook, or a long old school, handwritten novel to write everyday. It can be so much more simple. I found it so easy to write my daily doings on my calendar and love that I remember doing those things and drawing those wave doodles. I love reading this notebook between my best friend, and reading what our cares and worries were, and who we had a serious crush on! (lol!). I love that everytime we traded it back and forth, we added a really cool or funny sticker.

I'm going to do the sticker book with my girls. I will have them add a sticker on their journal every time they write in it! And hopefully at the end of the year, I will say that we went through a ton of stickers!

I hope this new year will bring so much joy and happiness into your lives. And I hope that we might all find just a little bit of time to capture these moments, so in 20 years we can look back with a little more clarity. Happy journaling and have fun visiting all the other DCC Blog hop journals!

[ DC Connection ]
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

Busy Monday - Tuck 'n' Go Giveaway

2011-12-12T10:01:00.001-05:00

Good morning everyone,

'Tis the season to be giving...so today I'm feeling inspired to give away one of my Tuck 'n' Go's, in conjunction with the SewMamaSew Giveaway Day! It was one of the first products I "invented", manufactured and started selling from my home.

The Tuck 'n' Go is an infant car seat blanket that stays put when you are on the go. When not in use, it can be folded up and tucked in itself. When baby grows out of it, it can be used for a changing pad, and filled with a couple of diapers and a small container of wipes!

For more information about the Tuck 'n' Go, please visit my Etsy shop listings, or to see a short video of it in action, please visit my You Tube page.

Here is the one of a kind Tuck 'n' Go that you could win...

To enter the giveaway (you have to do the first 2 things):

1) Please leave your name and email address in the comments below! (I can't go searching high and low for a way to contact you if you win).

AND 2) Please tell me your favorite craft/hobby

For an extra chance:
3) Re-Pin any one of "My Kid Giddy Designs" on Pinterest.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog and entering the giveaway. This giveaway is open from now until Dec 16th at 11:59 EST. The winner will be contacted and announced by Monday Dec. 19th.

Please "like" my facebook page for more information on new pattern releases and all the other fun stuff that's fit to print, (and more giveaways too)! Come chat with me on twitter too!

Good luck!

This giveaway is open to US and International persons. However, I cannot guarantee it's arrival in time for Christmas to international locations, and even some local US locations. Will be shipped via USPS.

Hi Everyone - Thanks for entering my Tuck 'n' Go Giveaway! The winner was chosen and was #66! Congrats to Kimberly and her 3 week old granddaughter! Come back soon for your chance to win one of the 5 patterns, I designed for Anna Griffin and some of her gorgeous fabrics! Thanks again and Happy Holidays!

Busy Monday: DCC Blog Hop - Sock Monkey

2011-12-05T21:43:00.000-05:00

In all the years I have been sewing, I have never made a sock monkey. I've never sewn anything using a sock, although technically, I have crafted with them. So when I was offered the chance to participate in this month's challenge...I totally accepted the challenge! I can assure you that this first little sock monkey is the "first"...of many more to come! It was actually really fun to make and the When Creativity Knocks VideoBook: "Sock Monkey Goes BanAnas", provided many tips, that made it easier and quicker!

My daughter's are already asking me to make another one, and are hoping for a girl sock monkey...so we can have a mommy and daddy...and then make some babies! lol! They will be making some of the clothes for the monkey to wear and are still playing Rock, Paper, Scissors, to figure out who gets to cuddle with it first! He's already a great addition to our family of stuffies. Who knows...this just might give me reason to go bananas in the sock drawers, and make more monkeys and other stuffed creations too!

If you want a chance to win a prize package from When Creativity Knocks, here's how:

-Go to http://www.whencreativityknocks.com/ website

-In the Member Log in box click: Create An Account

-Entry Code: Sock Monkey

There is also a discount coupon to purchase the WCK VideoBook: Sock Monkey Goes BanAnas

(Enter before Dec 19, 2011 for your chance to win)

Prize pack includes:
-DVD “Sock Monkeys Go BanAnas

-1 pair of Rockford Red Heeled Socks

-Sewing kit, including: needle, button eyes, floss and stuffing

-Plus 1 pre-sewn sock monkey

My daughter's and I would like to thank the sponsors of this month's DCC Blog Hop challenge:
When Creativity Knocks

Rockford Red Heeled Socks

Rit® Brand Dye

Judikins

Have a great week and check back soon for my latest "STUFFED" publication (another first!)! and for an awesome Anna Griffin Sewing Pattern and Fabric giveaway!!!

[ DC Connection ]
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

This pattern is copyright protected and is for home and personal use only. The opinions set forth regarding the WhenCreativityKnocks™ Sock Monkey's Go Bananas VideoBook, and any other products, are my own opinions.

Busy Monday: DCC Blog Hop - FlipPal Holiday Ornaments

2011-11-15T10:19:00.001-05:00

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas....with these holiday ornaments hanging around....

As a member of the Designer Crafts Connection, I have the privilege to work with some really fun toys (aka products), sent to me from the manufacturers. I was grateful to be one of the 8 chosen to this month and was given a Flip Pal™ Mobile Scanner to play with and use at my discretion. Of course with Christmas on my mind already, I decided to deck the halls on this post! After all, it is my favorite time of year!

10 years ago, my husband and I got married. Just over 8 years ago we had our first baby. Almost 7 years ago we had our second, and in a few months, 7 years ago we got our first digital camera. It's so hard to believe that only 7 years ago I was still taking my "film to be processed and printed". Now with everything going digital the opportunities for creative endeavors are endless. I made some really fun ornaments with pictures I have been needing to scan, from my wedding and of my newborn babies! These ornaments are so quick and easy to make, and are great for gift giving!

Here's how to make your own:

What you'll need:
A Flip Pal™ Mobile Scanner
Inkjet Printable Fabric (please be sure to check your printer compatibility with any printing fabric you purchase!)
Ribbon (2 1/2" per ornament)
Holiday fabric of choice
Muslin Fabric
AccuQuilt™ GO! Baby Machine and 2", 3", 5" Circle die cut
Fiberfill of choice
Needle & Thread

What you do:

1. Read all the instructions on the Flip Pal™ Mobile Scanner prior to using (so that you have enough batteries and can decide things like scanning at 300dpi or 600dpi). Scan all the photos or objects you'd like to use. If you don't want to purchase holiday fabric, you can make your own fabric, by scanning your favorite patterned sweater for a really great texture and printing that as well.

2. If you can't take the picture out of the book, or if you can't fit the object on top of the scanner, remove the cover, flip the scanner and scan the photo directly in the book, or directly over the item. I love this option, as it really gives you so many ways to use it while scanning a variety of things.

3. Using the AccuQuilt™ GO! Baby Circle die, cut out three large circles (2 of your chosen fabric, and 1 Muslin) that are 5" in diameter, and one small 2" circle from a scrap of fabric.

4. Once you have scanned all of your photos, you can use the computer program of your choice, to prepare and crop them for printing. I placed each photo into a circle shape on my MAC program, to avoid using more ink than needed. You don't have to do it that way. You can just print each picture and crop during the sewing process. If you print them as circles, they should be no smaller than 3" in diameter. Peel the fabric, carefully, from the paper backing. Make sure you do not pull or distort the images by pulling too hard in one direction.

5. Lay one of the holiday fabric circles right side up, and one piece of muslin on top of it. Fold it in half (as show on the left side of the group). Fold the smaller 2" circle scrap and center it. Cut out that half circle, so you have a 2" opening in the center of your ornament. Sew all the way around the center of the circle, using a 1/4" seam allowance (3rd photo from left). Now clip all the way around the inside edge of the circle, making sure to not cut the seam.

6. Once you have clipped the inside edge, flip the muslin inside through the center, and behind the front piece. This will give you the clean edge that you need in the center of your ornament. If you prefer a raw edge, you do not need to use the steps involving the Muslin. As pictured on the far right, place your photo underneath the ornament fabric.

7. Next, top stitch around the inside edge of the ornament. With raw edge to raw edge, place a piece of ribbon in the top, center of your ornament. Cover the ribbon, and front of the ornament, with the back piece of the ornament. Leaving the bottom open about 1", sew all the way around the outside edge, using a 1/4" seam allowance again.

8. Clip all the way around the edge of your ornament, again making sure not to cut the seam. Gently pull the ribbon out from the bottom opening, and turn the remainder of the ornament inside out. Gently stuff the ornament with desired fiberfill and stitch closed with a needle and thread.

These ornaments are so quick and easy to make, they would be perfect for gift tags and gift giving this holiday season. So you can make as many as you'd like. And now you'll have to hop around to see all the other amazing projects made with the FlipPal, and some other projects by the other members of the Designer Craft Connections Blog Hop (see the link below). Thanks for visiting and don't forget to click the follow button, on the right side, and sign up for the Kid Giddy email updates! After making some ornaments of your own, please feel free to share them on the Kid Giddy Flickr group! Have a wonderful week!

[ DC Connection ]
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

This pattern is copyright protected and is for home and personal use only. The opinions set forth regarding the FlipPal™ Mobile Scanner, AccuQuilt™ GO! and any other products, are my own opinions.

Here's the awesome news for you:

You can participate too! The blog hop follower and participating Scan & Share Blog Hop designer that creates the most creative and productive ideas using a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner will each win a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner. Do you have a creative idea for using the Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner for a Scan & Share project? Enter your idea by clicking this link here. Entries are due by Dec 15th, 2011. A team from Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner will choose the winners—who will be announced on Monday, December 19, 2011.

And there's more...The Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner team is also offering a coupon for 10% off the purchase of a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner or a Flip-Pal™ mobile scanner Creative Suite—with Craft Edition DVD. To receive a coupon code click here. The coupon is valid from Nov 15 - Dec 14, 2011 or while supplies last!

Random thoughts

2011-11-04T13:43:00.001-04:00

I've been sitting at my computer for way too long, doing absolutely nothing of worth. I feel like I'm toast. I've been sewing like crazy, to get my goods in a local shop, made some costumes (still need to post those pics) and volunteering at my daughter's schools.

Some days I have a blog post idea, but I know it will take at least an hour or longer, and then lose my motivation. Then there's the having to sew, in which case, I'd shut down my computer just to stay off of it! I have so much to share with you, and no time to do it. But have no fear, this weekend I will be going through much of my blog re-design process and hope it will be finished by Monday. I can't wait to show you what I've been up to lately, and hear your thoughts on the fresh, new, kid giddy blog look!

If you are here, reading any of my posts, won't you please leave me a little comment below. Sometimes I don't bother to post, because I feel like no one is reading. When I started this blog, I actually did it for my daughters. I wanted to share my life, talents, and accomplishments with them, because I don't journal enough. I figured this would act as my journal. I have to admit though, now, it would be lovely knowing others are reading it too, out of pure enjoyment and curiosity! So that's really it for today. No pictures. No flashy fonts and colors. Just thoughts. See you soon. I think I need a nap! -kg

Busy Monday: Bits 'n Pieces Series - Teeko the Polar Bear Softie

2011-10-10T22:49:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone,

It is late Monday night and I had to get this little Teeko the Polar Bear post up on my blog, before flying off to neverland! I still cannot believe the year I have had. This adorable little Teeko marks the end of the "bits 'n pieces" series! This latest holiday issue (Nov/Dec 2011) of Crafts 'n things Magazine is officially out on stands...and is as cute as can be! You won't want to miss it.

A year and a half ago, my life was totally different. I blogged feverishly, I struggled to sell anything on my Etsy shop, I took my girls to school, went to karate, ran, biked...did all the normal things I would - well - normally do! Then one day a friend told me to submit something to Crafts 'n things Magazine! I thought - there's no way I could do that. But I resisted the urge to run and hide, and contacted them immediately. To my surprise - they loved my work.

I found out what they were looking for and shot an email back only 10 minutes later. Then I got an immediate response - they loved my Owl. Now I was ready to run and hide again! I had never written a pattern up - at all! I thought it had to look, sound like, and be as confusing as the store bought patterns! lol! And I certainly didn't follow those - let alone know how to write one up for others to understand it! I worked really hard on it. I wrote some of it - and struggled to write the rest. I just didn't have the confidence. I still wanted to run and hide. Finally, the day before the due date - I convinced myself it's now or never, and did it! I did the same thing when I accepted the challenge to do an entire series for the magazine! I wanted to run and hide - but told myself - "it's now or never!" So I did it. And I couldn't be happier!

I don't know how many Crafts 'n things Magazine readers are reading my blog. I don't know how many people like or love my designs. All I do know, is that I stretched myself. I didn't run and hide - when Heavenly Father knows I could've! I dug deep and I climbed my mountain. I have learned so much from this series, this experience, and I sincerely hope you have all enjoyed the new plush friends we've made together: Heddy the Hedgehog, the Tufty Bird Family, Sammy the Seahorse, Carter the Crab, the Reversible PumpKat and now Teeko the Polar Bear! Eventually, when I get my act together and have less work to do - all of these patterns will be available as kits in my Etsy shop, or my own web store. But we have time!

Thank you for taking this journey with me! I now know a few of you, from the Kid Giddy Facebook page and the Kid Giddy Flickr group, from the pictures you have posted, and I am grateful! There will be more fun stuff on the horizon - but my lips are sealed! Thank you to Abby & Annie for this journey! I hope you all have a wonderful night! See you soon!

Busy Monday: Think Pink Handbag Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop Sponsored by Westcott

2011-10-03T10:11:00.003-04:00

I am so grateful for awesome companies that support great causes. Westcott Brand® is proud to be the official sponsor the October Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop, and being that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month, the theme of the project challenge was… PINK!

I wanted to design a number of things when I received the box of all things pink. I immediately thought of a huge ball gown type of skirt, but realized that would take too long. At the same time I was thinking about the skirt, I was thinking about a matching bag. It was exactly what I had in mind, and I'm so excited I got the results I was hoping for! This is by far the most Duck Tape I've used at once, and the most intricate. My daughter's and I crafted some little sandals this summer, but that's about it for my handling of DuckTape!

In the end, my hands were the stickiest thing in front of me. Not the scissors, blades, or cutters! I was very impressed and had to share that! Westcott Brand® Titanium Bonded Non Stick Scissors are the BEST Non Stick Scissors on the market that never get stuck and can easily cut through Sticky Back VELCRO®, Duck Tape and multiple layers of fabric and other materials!

My favorite product was the Westcott Brand® Cutting blade which was padded and ergonomic, a far cry different than my old solid steel shank with painful metal grip dots. This blade was awesome! It made crafting this bag, so much easier!

For your chance to win some awesome Westcott Brand® products, please visit the Westcott Blog and the Westcott Brand® facebook page!

Did I mention....you can click the Charity Wings image for your chance to win THIS 1 and ONLY (Think PINK Kid Giddy bag)

& other PINK goodies in the Charity Wings auction to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness.

Feel free to say hi here and leave me a little love in the comments below! (this does not increase your chance of winning the bid or the Westcott package, nor does it count as an entry - but leaving me a comment would be much appreciated!)

After you leave me a comment, you can click forwards or backwards on the blog hop link to see the other PINK projects! Have an awesome week!

[ DC Connection ]
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

Disclosure: I received Westcott, Duct Tape & Velcro Brand products, to complete this project for Breast Cancer Awareness month. By having received these products, I have in no way altered my opinion of said products. This is not a review of the product but merely supporting products and companies that also support great causes. Opinions are my own.

Throw-Back Thursday: Vintage Sewing Books, Stitch By Stitch

2011-09-29T10:42:00.002-04:00

Today my thoughts are revolving around these vintage sewing books my Granny gave me, many years ago, as her and my Grandpop began downsizing to move to Florida. There are 20 total books in the series. Unfortunately I have books 2 through 20 and am missing the first one. I even have the index booklet. I'm sure the first one gave all the basic of sewing, knitting, crocheting all all the other crafts featured, and therefore must have been used so often it was displaced from the rest! But of course - I can't be too sure of that. All I know is, it's gone.

Commadore keyboard Image from wikipedia

These books remind me of the days when I sat on a Commodore 64 playing "pong" before my brother took the keyboard apart thinking he could put it back together. Or of the salesmen that would walk door to door and town to town selling sets of Encyclopedias because we didn't have the internet for research homework. And reminds me of the Craft kit projects, you could pay for through the mail, one project a week or month that came with a binder to put it all in (and divider tabs). Those were the days. And those days are gone, but at least I still have the books. Something to remember "those days" by!

I wonder if my girls will remember going to book store and libraries when they are older. I wonder if their children will ever walk through the doors of a book store or library?! Wouldn't that be so sad.

These books are treasures to me. Sure they are so severely outdated...but everything old becomes new again right? Like wearing a belt on top of a plaid shirt and Farrah Fawcett hair! I can't say I look through them often, nor do I gain much inspiration from them for current projects, but they are just so cool to have. A long time ago, my Granny used these books to make things for herself, her children, her grandchildren, and friends too! Somethings are worth holding onto! What are you holding onto? Do you have special treasures from the past that tell a story? Please share it!

Have a great day, minute by minute and stitch by stitch!

These Stitch by Stitch books were printed by Torstar Books, in Belgium 1984, 1985

Modular Star - AccuQuilt GO! Winner!

2011-09-21T16:13:00.000-04:00

GGPS6ZSAWEZ8 WOW - I am so grateful for the awesome response to not only my Modular Star Tutorial, but also to the AccuQuilt GO! giveaway! I really love creating new designs and sewing, but it's so much more fun when I am able to help give back as well, because of companies like AccuQuilt!

I'm so excited to finally let you know who won the AccuQuilt GO! Baby giveaway. Thank you all for waiting 2 more days, but I needed to make sure that if an international fan was chosen, that they would be able to get the package. I'll be sure to ask that question next time before I post!

ok - so without further wait...Here is the winner:

Audrey's Attic!

Audrey's Attic won an AccuQuilt GO! Baby cutter, with a cutting mat and 3 dies of her choice! How cool is that?!!! Now - if she doesn't get back to me soon - I will have to pick another winner...but I'm pretty sure she will unless she gave me the wrong email address?!

I'd like to personally thank each of you for entering the giveaway and spreading the kidgiddy love! Please come back and visit my blog often - click the follow button if you haven't already! I promise there are more good times to come! Thanks again and congrats to Audrey's Attic!

Busy Monday: Reversible PumpKat Softies

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

Boo,

Hope this little PumpKat didn't scare you! Get your copy before it's gone! The latest issue (Sept/Oct 2011) of Crafts 'n things Magazine is out on stands...or sold out - so run don't walk to get your copy now!

This year for halloween I couldn't decide if I wanted the pattern to be a Jack-o-Lantern or a Black Scaredy Cat! So it became a little of each! Just like some years...most years, my girls can't decided what they want to be for Halloween...until the last minute! Yikes!

By following the simple, sew as you go, concept in the instructions, you can to make this reversible PumpKat for your fall festive table decorations this year! Give them faces or let the fabric do all the talking. Make just one, or make as many as you please. You can even enlarge it to make a really bold...huge statement! No matter what you do...have fun and enjoy the fall season that is quickly approaching!

When you are done making your PumpKat, please head on over to my Kid Giddy Flickr group and post your pictures for all to share. I'm going to start highlighting some of you crafty folks that are posting in there! Please let me know if you have any questions putting yours together! Have an awesome week!

Busy Monday: AccuQuilt GO! Modular Star Tutorial & Giveaway!

2011-09-05T16:19:00.001-04:00

Pin It

Most Modular Stars I have seen are made out of glass, metal or paper. I have wanted to make this modular star pattern for a very long time, and as I was deciding on which AccuQuilt GO! Dies I wanted to design with first, I knew I had to have this one. There was no doubt in my mind it would work, I just didn't know how many I'd have to make, to make it work! Although this looks so difficult, I'd actually call it a step above a "beginner level" pattern. It really is so easy, it just looks very intimidating. When in doubt try it out!

Here's what you'll need:
AccuQuilt GO! Machine (Studio or Baby)
AccuQuilt GO! "Triangles in Square - 3" Finished"
AccuQuilt Cutting Mat
Fabric of Choice
Straight Scissors
Sewing Machine
Fiberfill for stuffing
Needle & Thread (for sewing closed)

Here's what you'll do:

Step 1: (Please read all manufacturers instructions prior to using your AccuQuilt cutter if you are a first timer). Place a couple of pieces of fabric onto the 2 Large Triangles of your AccuQuilt GO! Cutter die and cover with the cutting mat. Roll the die and mat through the AccuQuilt Cutter and continue this process until you have at least 60 pieces for your Modular Star. If you are using many different scraps, you may want to consider cutting a few extra, so you can be selective when coordinating each triangle and each section.

Step 2: Place two triangles, right sides together, and stitch along one of the long sides. You can chain stitch this step, to avoid clipping your thread and starting again each time. Be sure to lock in your stitch at each end (as you turn them right side out, they may come apart without a locked in stitch). You will need to chain stitch 20 sets of 2.

Step 3: Now open it, right sides facing up and place the 3rd Triangle face down, lining up the raw edges. Chain stitch this step as well. You will then have sewn 20 sets of 3 triangles each.

Step 4: Once you have sewn the 3 pieces together, you will sew the two outside edges together, to close up the side of the triangle. The bottom will remain open. After you have sewn the edge of all 20 triangles, carefully turn them all right side out. They now look like little pyramids.

Step 5: Now we begin connecting all of the pyramids. First we start by connecting 2 triangles together, from two of the pyramids. Place right sides together and sew them together. (TIP: Don't make the mistake I made and not sew enough of a seam allowance in this step. Once 5 pyramids are sewn together you may have a hole in the center that will weaken easily over time. Your seam allowance should be at least 1/4" if not slightly more.)

Step 6: Add another pyramid to the first 2, by connecting one triangle side of the connected pyramids, to one side of the new pyramid. Continue this process until you have 5 pyramids connected (they will look like a crown). Set this crown (set of 5) aside and make another crown.

Step 7: When you have 2 crowns, pick one triangle from each crown, and connect the two triangles by sewing them right sides facing together.

Step 8: Now you'll see that by connecting the two crowns, you have 4 pyramids right in the center (2 on each side). You'll now add one pyramid in between these 4, to create a crown in the center. Connect one side of the pyramid to the left, and the other side of the same pyramid to the right side. (Now it will look like you have one crown in the center and 3 pyramids on each side.)

Step 9: If you turn it around as in this top left picture, you'll have one crown in the center and 3 pyramids on each side (as mentioned before). Now you'll see that you have 4 again and can add a 5th pyramid in between to make a 5 pointed crown again. So repeat step 8.

Step 10: You will continue this exact same process as you go all the way around. Remember that 20 pyramids will make one whole Modular star!

Step 11: Before you stitch up the very last edge, you'll have to stuff it. Now I used Bamboo for this one (as seen in the pictures), and thought it would help to hold it's shape better and be more dense (bamboo is very thick and dense). But I think the next one I make will be filled with a light weight polyfill. I think it will stuff better and simply be lighter. I think it will also put less stress on the centers. So stuff yours with a fiber of choice.

Step 12: Close your Modular star closed with a ladder stitch. It is really addictively fun to play with. Just ask my girls and my husband. Because he is a graphic designer, I'm always interested in his opinion, and when I see him seriously checking out my work (and playing with it!), I get so excited!!!

If you like this Triangle Die as much as I do, you can also check out my other AccuQuilt GO! Triangle Pennant Banner Tutorial! And now - the moment I've been waiting for, and hopefully you have been too!...

The AccuQuilt GO! GIVEAWAY!

Here's what you can win:
1 AccuQuilt GO! Baby and 3 Dies of YOUR choice! and I think a cutting mat (but I'll check on that in the meantime)! Make sure you choose Dies that are compatible with the GO! Baby!

If you win:
The winner will have to supply me (in a personal email after you have been notified as the winner) with your Full Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number & Email Address.

Details of the Giveaway:
This giveaway will be open to US Residents until I find out otherwise. It wasn't specified - so I will check and get back to you. Please enter anyway just in case!
This Giveaway will be open from Monday September 5th , 2011 4pm EST until Saturday September 17, 2011 11:59pm EST. Winner will be notified by email only.

To Enter:
If you want a chance to win - you MUST leave A comment below ( WITH your email address. Please understand that I really don't have time to go hunting for a way to contact you) If you forget and leave another comment with only your email address, in the hopes that will count as two - only your first comment will count).

For additional chances to win:

You can tweet about it with a link - please include my twitter handle "http://twitter.com/kidgiddyetsy" (leave a comment here so it counts that you did)
You can blog about it (leave a comment here with a link)
You can visit my Pinterest page (http://pinterest.com/kidgiddy) and re-pin anyone of my Kid Giddy Designs Pins. Only the Kid Giddy Design Pins will be counted. (leave a comment here for it to count)

So are you ready??? GO! Ahead and enter!

Thanks for stopping by and checking out my tutorial and for entering my giveaway! If you have any questions about the tutorial or the giveaway you can click the contact me button up top and fire away! After you do make a Modular Star, please feel free to upload a couple of my pics to my Kid Giddy Flickr Group! I just recently started the group, so I'm really needing more company! If you've made something using one of my designs, or tutorials, please post it to the group! Good Luck and have a great week!

Disclaimer: I have not been paid by AccuQuilt to design this tutorial, but I have been given some products listed, in order to make it. This does not, in any way, alter my opinions of the product being used.

IMPORTANT F.A.Q.'s
Please note: This MODULAR STAR PATTERN is a Kid Giddy Original and cannot be made and resold. This pattern tutorial is being shared for home and personal use only. THANK YOU! I have received many emails inquiring to share this tutorial. You may only share the first image (which is the finished Modular Star image) and a link back to this tutorial. You may NOT re-do this tutorial (even in another language) even taking your own photos, to share on your own blog or site. I appreciate that many of you love the design, but re-creating the tutorial for your own site, even with credit is not acceptable. Thank you.

If you do not have the AccuQuilt cutter, you can still make this design, using a basic triangle shape. As long as the two side lengths are the same, you are good to go. It can be as point or as short as you'd like it. You can purchase a triangle cutting ruler (used for pennant banners and quilting) which will work as well. I'd also recommend you clip the corners to make it easier for your seam allowance. Again - just by making your own triangles doesn't mean you created the pattern, and can therefore sell it as your own, as a finished product or as a PDF pattern, etc. Thank you for your understanding!

And while you are here...would you mind clicking this image and voting for my blog...I have been nominated and would love to be included on the 2012 Top 50 mom craft blogs Babble list! I'm currently in the top 30 but need more votes to stay there and work my way closer to the top! Thanks so much!!!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS OVER. Thanks!

Busy Monday: AccuQuilt Pennant Banner Tutorial

2011-09-05T13:38:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love a penant banner (or Garland)? Right! We all do - Well this one is so easy it will knock your socks off. Depending on how many pennants you want to make and include in each banner, it can take you about 1 - 2 hours! That's it!

This tutorial is also the first blog hop for me as a new member of the Designer Blog Craft Connection! So click on the Designer Blog Crafts Connection sidebar link after you've made your banner, to head off to the next blog for another fun craft! Every first Monday of the month we are going to have some awesome and fun projects for you. This month, the theme is parties or gatherings and things for it. These easy Pennant Banners are just so cute and festive and will cheer up any room, shower, celebration or party! It's also makes a great gift!

Here's what you'll need:
AccuQuilt GO! Machine (Studio or Baby)
AccuQuilt GO! "Triangles in Square - 3" Finished"
AccuQuilt Cutting Mat
Fabric of Choice
Ribbon of Choice (approx. 3 yeards for 14 Pennants)
Straight Scissors
Sewing Machine
Fiberfill for stuffing
Needle and Thread (for sewing closed)

Here's what you'll do:

Step 1: Place a couple of pieces of fabric onto your AccuQuilt GO! Cutter die and cover with the cutting mat. Roll through the AccuQuilt Cutter and continue this process until you have at least 28 pieces for your pennant banner. (Please read all manufacturers instructions prior to using your AccuQuilt cutter if you are a first timer). Step 2: Place two triangles, right sides together, and stitch along the two long sides, pivoting at the tip and down the other side. Leave the shortest end open for turning right side out. You can chain stitch this step, to avoid clipping your thread and starting again each time. Be sure to lock in your stitch at each end (as you turn them right side out, they may come apart without a locked in stitch).

Step 3: Once you have sewn all 14 pieces (or more if you choose), turn them right side out and top stitch each triangle, on the same sides as they were sewn before. You can chain stitch this step as well, to save time. You do not need to lock stitch at each starting and ending point.

Step 4: Using a 1" ribbon, fold it in half lengthwise and find your center point. Layout how you'd like to place and order each pennant, 7 on each side of the fold. Begin by folding the 1" ribbon in half, stitching the edge of the ribbon (approx. 12" length) closed. Place the first pennant's raw edge into the fold of the ribbon and continue to stitch across the ribbons edge. Stitch approx. 1" of the ribbon edge closed, and then place the next pennant into the fold. Continue this process until you have sewn all of the pennants into place. Sew the remaining edge of the ribbon closed and you're done.

This die so far has been my favorite. I've made 2 projects with it and I'm sure there's so many more I could make. I'll have to let my brain think about it some more! Now I'm off to write up the Modular Star tutorial and the awesome giveaway... you could win an AccuQuilt GO! Baby with 3 Dies of your choice too!! Whootwhoot!

If you are a quilter, you can sign up for 22 FREE AccuQuilt Patterns - click the image to the right (on the sidebar), for your free patterns and download them today - it's really that easy!!

Thanks for stopping by and checking out my tutorial! I hope that you enjoy making some pennant banners! When you do make some, please feel free to upload them to my Kid Giddy Flickr Group! I just recently started the group, so I'm really needing more company! If you've made something using one of my designs, or tutorials, please post it to the group! Have a wonderful day & week!

Busy Monday: AccuQuilt GO! Hexagon Ball Tutorial

2011-08-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

Back in May of this year, I stepped into the AccuQuilt booth during Quilt Market, and pitched a few of my ideas, in the hopes of working with them and their GO! products. About a month ago I was so excited to officially become one of the AccuQuilt Bloggers, and to be able to "officially" share these tutorials with you!

The first tutorial in my AccuQuilt GO! series, is the Hexagon Ball. I had this grand idea when I started, and multiple times, thought it was going to be a total "craft fail"! Luckily I went with my gut feeling, and kept going. I'm not a quilter. I've made two "pieced quilts" over the last 10 years and they took me at least, 2 1/2 years to complete - each - sad right?!! I don't prefer to sew flat - but rather 3 dimensional. I like quick projects that are simple and fun, and I love being able to reuse and recycle when I can, all the while, making a gift or toy that will be enjoyed for years to come. With the AccuQuilt GO! and an old wool sweater (or thrifty wool find) you can make one of the balls too with minimal effort! So grab your AccuQuilt GO! or GO! Baby and lets get makin'!

Here's what you'll need:
AccuQuilt GO! Machine (Studio or Baby)
AccuQuilt Hexagon 2" - 3" - 5" Die
AccuQuilt Cutting Mat
Old Wool Sweater or anything wool (it must be 100% wool)
Straight Scissors
Sewing Machine (use a regular stitch, not a stretch or zig-zag)
Fiberfill for stuffing (or wool sweater remnants)
Needle & Thread (for sewing closed)

Here's what you do:

1. Select a 100% Wool sweater or other wool item to use for this project. Do not pre-wash (but hope it is clean enough to handle). 2. Carefully cut your wool sweater (or other wool item) apart, at the seams. Cut the arms off, the neck and waist bands, and the body. 3. Cut one of the body pieces into strips just slightly larger than the height of the hexagon size you are going to make. This ball is made using the 3" die. 4. Cut the strips into pieces to be larger than the width of the hexagon size you are going to make.

5. Place one piece of the wool fabric onto the hexagon die, of the size you are making. Cover it with the cutting mat. 6. Roll your cutting mat and die through the machine (be careful to watch your fingers), and roll it through to the other side. (TIP: If your AccuQuilt machine/die & mat are all brand new, like mine; or you are working with a thick fabric, start with only one layer at a time and build up your layers, as possible.) 7. Remove the cut fabric from the cutting mat (reminds me of Flat Stanley!) 8. Cut enough to make a ball (14 pieces) or cut extras so you can choose which pieces you want to use, to create your pattern, as I did (fussy cutting). This sweater can easily make 2 balls, a 3" and a 5".

9. Begin with your center piece. Sew one piece, to the center piece, with right sides facing together. (TIP: There is a right side and wrong side to every sweater. Make sure you always have right sides facing) On each piece you will not be sewing from edge to edge, or it will not line up to the next one. You must start with 1/4" unsewn at the corner, sew along the edge, and then stop again, so you have 1/4" remaining on the opposite corner. 10. Continue to sew a piece, along each edge, all the way around the center hexagon. Then, sew each of the edges from the center piece down the edges, using the same 1/4" rule left open at the corner. 11. After you have made both the front and the back, you can begin to connect them. You must connect them as the arrows direct. You will not be connecting the top edge of one hexagon to the top edge of the other half, but rather connecting them at an angle. 12. The results will be a flower looking piece, that will in no way resemble a ball.

13 - 16. After you have sewn all the way around the outer edges, leaving one line unsewn, you can then, carefully, turn the ball right side out. This is where I thought it was going to be a craft fail. But I kept going and just thought I'd have fun anyway with the felting process. I figured if it didn't work as a ball, it would make a fun pin cushion! Ok - moving on...

17. Begin by getting it wet with hot water. If the hot water bothers your hands, use gloves, or just wash it with a load of laundry on the hot (and non-delicate) cycle! 18. Place soap on your hands (be generous), and slowly work the soap into a strong lather. Rub the wool gently at first, and in a circular motion. 19. As you work the wool for a few minutes, you can then press a little harder and move a little quicker. Every once in a while splash it with some hot water and work it harder. This process should take a good 10 minutes. 20. Rinse it with cold water and then do it all over again. Once you have finished, rinse it very well and be sure when squeezed, there is no soap remaining.

21. When you are finished squeezing out as much of the water as you can, you'll notice the fibers are much tighter and closer together. If this did not happen, try the felting steps again. If it doesn't appear shrunken, there may be other non-wool fibers woven with the wool, in which case it won't work as well. 22. If it worked, place the ball in the dryer (with other items so you don't over heat your dryer), and dry it for about 40 minutes, or until dry! 23. If you place the ball next to one of your left over pieces, you'll see the difference in the fiber weave, and in the size. 24. Now through the opening, generously stuff your ball with your choice of fiberfill. I do prefer a premium blend to prevent bunching. 25. And stitch closed with a needle and thread (step not shown)!

I love the AccuQuilt GO!, and think it has more uses for us crafters than meets the eye! I'm so excited for the other tutorials I'm working on for you...so stay tuned for more fun, AccuQuilt Tutorials coming soon! Oh and did I mention, an awesome AccuQuilt GO! Baby giveaway with 3 Dies of your choice too!! Whootwhoot!

In the meantime, you can sign up for 22 FREE AccuQuilt Patterns - click the image to the right (on the sidebar) for your free patterns and download them today - it's really that easy!!

Thanks for stopping by and checking out my tutorial! I hope that you make a ball or two, and when you do, I hope you come by and let me know, and also upload them to my Kid Giddy Flickr Group! I just recently started the group, so I'm needing more company! If you've made something using one of my designs, or tutorials, please post it to the group! Have a wonderful day & week!

Busy Monday: Laptop Greeting Cards & an Elmer's Giveaway

2011-07-25T19:34:00.002-04:00

Hello crafters! I was contacted by Elmer's a couple of months back, to see if I would be interested in receiving a Kid's Summer Camp kit with tons of their products to make something with and blog about. I'm not a review blog and will not go into the "reviews" of each product they sent me, but I will instead share with you what you'll need, to make your own Laptop Greeting Card. And if you are the one lucky reader (that leaves a comment below) - you just might be the one to win a fun package of your own.

MAC's have an apple...but I have a flower on my laptop! (Which doubles as the bird's eye)...I love happy accidents!

I'm happy to say, I finally got my girls and some of their friends together for an awesome craft session! I have been waiting weeks to share this Laptop Greeting Card idea with you all! The girls were so excited to crank the tunes and get to work, and I think the only thing I needed was more space!

It all started off with this awesome crate...I think my husband is jealous and I'm worried about leaving it alone for any extended period of time, as it may go missing and I may never get it back.

Check out what was inside...The Host (or as I called it the "Mommy") kit!, 5 other kid crafter kits and a generous gift card for purchasing more supplies (like scrapbooking paper, etc)

Here's what the girls saw before the crafting madness started...A whole slew of goodies and bright colors! They too loved the burlap baggies, and were equally excited to be able to keep it and bring it home!

Here's one of my daughter's (Elephant), using a pair of Elmer's scissors for a fun edge effect!

This one's little boo-boo, didn't prevent her from gluing down her keyboard and having a blast...

Ladybug colored in her keyboard with heavy duty permanant markers!

Elephant begins to find the joy of her Elmer's Foam Core board creation and looks deep into the "laptop screen" allowing her imagination to run free!

My older daughter (Monkey) is finishing up the coloring in process on her last few key's, with her dual end permanent marker set. These dual end markers were a definite hit!

Mittens finished placing her gems and laptop "skins" by using the glue dots from her kit. The glue dots were my favorite! She also colored in some of her keys with the Gel pens! With just a hint of glitter they were a hit also!

The girls show off the covers of their new Laptops! (I think they don't want to give them away anymore...but instead want to use them for pretend play) - Who wouldn't want to have one to play with - right?!

Here they all are opened and ready for a special message and maybe a few pictures from home!

So here's what you'll need for your Laptop Greeting Cards - or even just to make a laptop to play with and learn where all the keys are on the keyboard!

1 - 1 Elmer's Bi-Fold Foam Board - measuring 12 x 18 (when folded it's 12 x 9)
2 - 1 Box (per child) Elmer's Craft Bond Glue Dots - these are so stinkin' FUN!!! (but beware - if your little one drops them on the kitchen floor like mine did...you'll have to find them all the hard way! lol!)
3 - Elmer's Craft Bond Extra strength glue sticks (these are blue and dry clear!) These worked best for gluing the keyboard to the inside of the laptop.
4 - Elmer's Double Sided Tape dispenser (we picked this up with our gift card and i LOVED it! It was gone before the crafting session was over!) This double sided tape was the best for getting the thicker glitter scrapbook pages to stay down. We def needed more than one roll!

Some of the others you may want:
1 - Gel Pens,
2 - Project Popperz Markers - these were the dual ended markers (please use these with proper ventalation and supervision!), and of course...
3 - Glitter Glue that puff's up when dried!
4 - the X-ACTO rounded corner punch

Some of the other things you'll need:
1 - Scrapbooking paper...on cell phones and iPads, they call it skins...pick out your favorite scrapbooking papers to cover your laptop inside and out!
2 - Print out a copy of my Kid Giddy Keyboard for fun and learning!

3 - Dog Tags (if you want to use them as a mouse like my girls did - or if you want to put it on the front with a symbol like I did (see pic above)).
4 - Ribbon - If your child wants to use it like a real laptop, it will need to stay open...you can poke holes in the sides, about 3 inches from the fold, and 1/2" from the edge, using a screwdriver (on a rug or other soft surface). Put the ribbon through the inside of the hole, to the outside, and tie it in a double or triple knot to secure it. Then place the bottom of the same ribbon into the other hole from the inside, and tie knots on the outside also. Besure both sides are tied at an even length.
5 - Shower Curtain Liner - yep I said a shower curtain liner. Now for this project I used a brand new one! But for yours - you can get the one in your shower - replace it and use the very top of it and toss the bottom! The top is always clean as new and can totally be reused! I used the clear shower curtain liner for the "screen" part of the laptop and if you leave the top open, you can slide new messages in or new pictures. Then the liner makes the screen look more real!
6 - Imagination - you don't need tons of it...but a little will go a long way!

So here's the info about the giveaway....Your "Host" bag and the 2 "kid" bags will not be the exact same as the ones we received, but will have the same products. If you'd like a chance to win - please leave a sweet comment below. (PLEASE NOTE: Elmer's said the winners must be U.S. residents; & a gift card is not included in the prize pack). The winner will have to email me a ship to address and the product will be sent directly to you. Thanks for reading, commenting & entering....and good luck! Comments must be posted by Saturday July 30, 2011 11:59EST to be counted. Winner will be announced Monday! Thank you!

I hope you all enjoy making pretend laptops to play with or laptop greeting cards to send! Thank you Elmer's for sending me fun in a box! The girls had such a blast! Have an awesome week! I will have more exciting tutorials to come in the next couple of weeks...so please stay tuned!

Giddy Up Friday: Craft Cabinet Organization

2011-07-15T20:40:00.000-04:00

My little girls love to create just as much as I do. My oldest daughter has been drawing since she was only 14 months old on a Magna Doodle, no joke! My youngest daughter caught wind of the fun and started, just around 2 years old. It's been non-stop creating ever since. We learned early on that we needed a place where they could keep their coloring books and crayons, magna doodles, etc. A place they could easily get to, without getting into the wrong things or getting hurt! Enter in the creation of the "craft cabinet".

This is the finished result

Their "craft cabinet" has been a great source of inspiration and has always been filled to the brim. We have filled it, emptied it, cleaned it and reorganized it, over and over many times. Finally we came up with a much better system that has kept it cleaner more times than not. Everything has a place and everything must be in that place or there is weeping and frustration from all members of the family when something can't be found.

These photos document the clean out process from last year! It's a very "Clean Sweep" style of organizing. The cabinet (in our needing to be remodeled kitchen) is used for their crafting supplies and measures 22"W x 23"D x 38"H total. A small space, organized really well, can house a ton of craft supplies! I promise! So here goes....

Clean Sweep - take everything out first!

Here's the panoramic view of the mess we created...

Here's Elephant joining in the sorting process!

I'm amazed at how much was eventually crammed in there!

All of the drawers were removed and emptied. Then sorted by labels.

Monkey & Elephant show off our amazing results!

We had the 4 larger bins already, as well as the 3 drawer pieces, but adding the labels, changing the layout a little and moving up the middle shelf level, helped tremendously. Although these pictures were from October of last year, I'm happy to say - it still looks this good!

In the bins, we have:
1) All play-doh
2) Coloring books (now for guests) or notebooks (which they use more often)
3) Wooden objects, googly eyes and other beading or fun kid projects
4) Felt, PomPoms, Pipe Cleaners, Foam stickers, etc.

The bins are standard plastic containers and the 3 Drawer units are 8 1/2 x 11. I have since bought them a standard 12 x 12 Scrapbooking tote, since the scrapbooking pads don't fit into either the bins or drawers.

I'm sharing the labels I made for the drawers, in a color version and in a black and white version (if you'd like to color your own). I used clear packing tape to "laminate" them and then stuck them to the inside of the drawers, where the handle of each drawer creates a curve. I only used 9, but I have added more so you can pick and choose which you need or prefer to use! Click on the image below to get to the Google Doc to download the PDF.

I hope you enjoy them. Let me know if I'm missing a really important label and I'll add some more later. Have a great weekend!

Busy Day: My Craft Room

2011-07-06T15:14:00.003-04:00

So I kind of don't want to post all these pictures lol!...but this room has evolved over the past year or two and will no longer be my craft room when we convert the space above our garage to our very real Studio space! Until then, I must be grateful for what I have and hope I won't be judged that it's all filled with buckets and bins of fabric and crafts! It's not as spacious as many other "craft spaces" I've seen in the blogging world, but it is sufficient for my needs for the next year. After that I will be busting at the seams - literally! I started off very simple and then started selling on Etsy, then designing patterns for Crafts n' things, and then working for Anna Griffin, and now with all the other projects in the works - it's all piling up - and I'm out growing my once perfect space!

So here it is regardless:

This is the Fabric stash that I dig from most frequently - My oldest daughter Monkey, painted the orange picture when she was in Kindergarten specifically for my craft room. That silver tin is from my mom when she was in Germany. I now have a Ribbon shelf rack on top of it...which is in the next two pics!

This little darling sits on top of the ribbon rack! She rocks! And so does Kermit the frog! Can you tell I like Gnomes, Cowgirls and frogs? (and the little bear - her name is Molly. She's the youngest from a Limited Edition series that The Limited Inc offered one year during Christmas. The big papa bear Harry is up above!)

The little girl doll, was featured in a previous post - she's my doll from when I was little. The jar of threads are all from the edges after washing my fabrics! I'm still trying to decide what to use them all for! Maybe doll hair! The green jars...I stocked up on them for the new Studio space!

This is my pride and joy sewing table. It's the one from Pottery barn with the really REALLY awesome drawer inside (all the compartments are so handy)! It may not be ideal for the machine - but it works! My inspiration board hangs above - the butterfly t-shirt my mom made for me when I was little! My hubby got me an awesome chair in my most favorite color!

Here's my cutting table and off on the side...*blushes*...all my fabric stash that I don't use on a regular basis. I also have projects that are waiting to be done in some of the front bins as well! The window is off to the left - great to look out and get lost in space (or better - in the garden)!

These are all my books and magazines that have brought me much inspiration! The baskets are filled with fun things my daughters are allowed to do when they feel like hanging out with me instead of playing! They have their own fabric stashes and [plastic] needlepoint crafts!

I hope you enjoyed a little peek into my creative space! On friday - I will be sharing the "Craft Cabinet" that we have set up for our daughters everyday use! I'll have a freebie download available too!

Have a great day!

Busy Monday: Carter the Crab Softie - "Bits 'n Pieces by Kerry Goulder"

2011-07-04T09:00:00.012-04:00

Hi everyone,

Get your copy while it's hot! The latest issue (July/Aug 2011) of Crafts 'n things Magazine is a very special one this month! Not only is my sweet little Carter the Crab pattern available inside, but MY SISTER's awesome Terrarium tutorial is on the FRONT COVER!!! I was so excited for her and thought it was really fun for each of us to have a project in there at the same time!

As the magazine mentioned - spending summer months with my daughter's finding hermit crabs in the Maine waters have been nothing short of fun, relaxing & awe inspiring! What they didn't have room to mention, was how I wish I could bring them back to my days as a young girl crabbing off the docks at my grandparents house (named "PrattsBottom") in Bozman, Maryland. During cold winter months, I long for summer. I have a life long love of of the beach and all things found there.

I was told my grandmother made the best crab cakes - but I couldn't stand the smell or the taste - so I was content to disagree. Eventually my dad warned me that whatever I caught I had to eat (crabbing or fishing). So I got smart! I would wrap my chicken with string, sit on the dock, lower it in and wait for a crab to grab on. As soon as I had one on my line I'd pull him up slowly and carefully, get a really good long look at him, and then quickly shake him off before my dad could see that I had one! lol! They are just so beautiful to look at. Their coloring is exquisite!

I greatly miss those days sitting on the dock in Bozman. A tiny little town, where the peace surrounds you. I made this little Carter the Crab with those memories in mind. Special memories from my youth. The great thing about these little crabs - they don't bite...and even better than that - I don't have to eat any of them! But they are fun to make, and fun to play with!

I hope you enjoy making your Carter the Crab softies with my original pattern! Please let me know if you have any questions putting yours together! Have an awesome day!

Busy Monday: Attacking the Dandelions: Getting Rid of the Dandelions One by One

2011-06-13T08:00:00.002-04:00

I know in the times of the great depression, Dandelion greens were a commodity and delicious treat...and I also know that some people love dandelions in their yard (like my hubby)...but I for one do not love them. I don't want to eat them (unless I was starving), I don't love the yellow weeds against all the pretty green that much, and I certainly don't want to step on a bee that is enjoying them, just to be stung! "I do not like them Sam, I am!"

Place coil directly into the center of the plant

So folks....in my neck of the woods - I am attacking the dandelions one by one. I'm removing every dandelion in my yard until there are no more! We kind of missed the spring cut off to use some chemical free dandelion killer (in the form of making my grass less sweet or something)...so we had to go to plan B....The coil!

"The Coil" (reminds me of "the claw" from the movie Liar Liar!)

Oh my heavens - I LOVE this thing. It is for sure a work out, and if you have a slightly bad back - you should be careful and forewarned (from all the bending forward) - but this coil - dandelion remover - makes my heart sing! I really have no problems ripping these things out from their core root systems and reseeding with grass to kill them!

Start twisting the coil, straight down into the center

Once the coil is all the way down gently pull straight up

Pull it our of the ground - root and all - and then uncoil it and loosen the soil from the roots

I can assure you I have not been paid for this post - to mention this tool or market and I can assure you I paid a pretty penny for the tool itself - but I've been searching the internet for all my options and never found this one! So I share it now with all of you! Hopefully you can find one in your area - otherwise you'll have to call Highland Farms Market!

Oh - and I guess we have some really good soil - because we have a ton of these little slimy critters! I think I found one worm for every 3rd weed I pulled up! That's not shabby, so if you need any for fishing - just let me know! lol!

little worm on my daughter's little glove covered hand

I have way more dandelions to go - but 2 bucket fulls have already made a significant difference! YEAH - isn't it so exciting?! Have a great week!

It's not a destination, it's a journey!

2011-06-04T13:00:00.006-04:00

Almost 3 years ago (in late August) I began taking karate classes. I can't recall exactly when I had this strong desire to begin such a daunting sport in my early 30's, but I had wanted to learn some form of martial arts for as long as I can remember and the desire was only getting stronger! When I started I thought it would just be enough to have a Black Belt and then move on. As I have traveled this road however, I have quickly found (and been repeatedly reminded in class), that "karate is not a destination it is a journey". And so a black belt in the end, won't be enough. I'll keep going. I'll get as many stripes on my future black belt as I can.

I've pondered on this thought for a couple years now, applied this concept to my life. From all aspects of my life as a mommy, my spiritual life, and my business as well...it is all a journey. Since beginning on this path of being an inventor and entrepreneur, my business has seen many alterations. I've ripped my business apart at the seams and re-sewn it. I've changed a straight line to a curve and it will continue to change.

Recently I have thought of all the changes my little "kid giddy" company has gone through. Not knowing where kid giddy will be in 5 or 10 years, it will be interesting to see this list of where I've been, where I am now...and where I'd like to go in comparison!

Initially - Manufacture my Invention and sell only Wholesale:
I had this grand idea that I could single handedly, get my Tuck 'n' Go into some major retail stores with 'some' effort. As I progressed along the manufacturing path, it became increasingly difficult and dollar signs were lingering in my eyes, even when closed. The fear of losing money like I did trying to sell Mary Kay makeup years before, paralyzed me. I also knew i didn't want to manufacture in China or anywhere overseas! Looking back is always 20/20! I certainly had not yet learned of all that I "didn't know then, but I know now". I'm glad I didn't go that route. It may work for some, including you, but luckily I was guided as I prayed and saved thousands of dollars!

Evolved - Self Manufacture Unique Goods and sell only Retail:
After letting go of the idea to sell to all the 'major retail stores' dream...I decided to find a way to get my goods online and sell them on a more personal level. That's when I discovered Etsy. I felt like I had missed the boat on Etsy (everyone was already selling) - but it was only getting bigger - so I figured I'd play the catch up game. Luckily it worked. It would've been great to say I've sold out of my Tuck 'n' Go's, but that is not the case. Surprisingly instead, I've sold over 200 of my thumb guards, and hope more of my other goods will become just as popular. But self manufacturing is hard. You have to commit to the time it takes to make each item. You will have inventory when some things don't sell and you have to stay fresh and current. I think for now it is something I will continue to do, so long as it doesn't interfere with new opportunities and my family.

Currently - Designing Sewing Patterns:
I love this part the most - maybe because it's the most current adventure - who knows?! About this time last year, I was looking online for pattern drafting books that taught something other than apparel - they were hard to come by. I was so afraid I was going to write up my patterns the wrong way or miss something because I am self taught and lack the education of a seamstress. I quickly threw the fear aside, feeling this was a challenge I was willing to overcome. After all, I am in this for the journey. In a sense - that means I am here to learn and grow and keep going. And so I will.

Future - The Journey:
I know what I'm working on next...(but can't say)...and I do know that I want to write a book and share many many more of my sewing patterns, and even children's books that are brewing in my head, but that is all in the future (the very near future)! Regardless, that journey will be written another day. For now I will enjoy this journey. I will find joy in each day. Otherwise - what is the point of it all? I have come this far and will keep going.

(it's still me - I cut my hair again to donate!) & both of my girls are Green w/ Brown Stripe too!

As I celebrate my new 2nd Degree Brown belt, I will continue that journey as I work towards my 1st Degree Brown belt and then my Black Belt. It won't stop there. I've only just begun. And so too, I will celebrate my Kid Giddy accomplishments (Crafts 'n things publications, and working with Anna Griffin) and continue on this journey as well. I'm looking forward to seeing where I will go and walking through all the doors Heavenly Father is willing to help me open. So where have you been? where are you now? and where is your journey taking you?

Giddy Up Friday: Teacher Appreciation Gift Idea

2011-06-03T13:00:00.000-04:00

Last year I coordinated an end of the year teacher appreciation gift for all the teachers in my daughters preschool class. With the help of all the students, I made these platters at a local paint your own pottery studio (Glazey Days) for each teacher. First I found out their favorite color(s), for their name and the year, and a coordinating color for all the kids names!

I initially had the students write their names on each plate with a pencil - but that proved difficult as some wrote really huge and I saw we would quickly run out of room. I quickly switched gears and instead, had them write their name just once on a piece of paper, which I later traced onto the plates and then traced with the glaze.

I added a quote "it starts with one....and ends with a thousand possibilities" which is from the Montessori philosophy and included one yellow dot for each childs name, to represent the concept of the the "golden beads". I also wrote all of the teachers names in a lowercase font - because that is the Montessori way of teaching the alphabet (only lowercase first). My daughter Elephant drew a sweet little picture of the school that I later traced onto the back of each plate.

I thought it was a worthy keepsake and wanted to share the idea with all of you, in case any of you are looking for some ideas! You could easily do it on a much smaller scale on a mug orice cream bowl as well.

The last pic is one of the tags (I'm no scrapbooker - but I thought they came out pretty cute!) I made to include each child's name on the gift that participated in it, and each child/family was present to give the gifts to each teacher. I couldn't share this last year since it was done at the very end...and I'm not sure what we are doing this year - since I still have a couple of weeks remaining!

Have a great weekend!

May Day Giveaway winner....

2011-05-28T16:02:00.000-04:00

Dude - we have a winner....

Earlier this week I posted a May Day Giveaway as part of the annual or semi-annual giveaway day that Sew Mama Sew lists....and mentioned I'd give away a cute little dolly and pillow set for one lucky winner....

The Winner is # 7 ( A Joyful Chaos) as chosen by the random.org generator!

I really appreciated all the entries and esp appreciated all the blog feedback. I'm wanting to make some changes - nothing too drastic - but changes none the less and love getting the opinions from all of you readers (even if you've only just found my blog). I do hope you'll come back soon!

Thanks again! And congrats A Joyful Chaos!