craftedbylindy

Oh Sweet Bench.....

2012-01-26T05:00:00.005-07:00

Oh, oh, oh....I must have! How amazing is this bench! I've never seen one like it and now I'll forever be obsessed with owning one. This bench lives in Kelly Reemtsen's loft. You can see the whole, beautiful home tour here. Found on Apartment Therapy via Kelly's Pinterest.

I love lists....

2012-01-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

2012 Calendar from the amazing shop yumalum on Etsy.

I'm not much for New Years resolutions and I'm definitely not a goal setter. Just never been my thing but I am a list maker. I love lists and they're sort of like goals right? Well below is my list of things to get done before baby #3 arrives. We'll see how many of these actually get accomplished. I'll keep you posted.

1. Update first two kids photo albums to present day

2. Work on and finish building my craftedbylindy website

3. Make curtains for all three kids rooms

4. Organize and declutter the basement (including digging out baby clothes)

5. Set up babies room

Backdrop Love....

2012-01-24T09:34:00.001-07:00

I love this Valentine's Day dessert table but I especially love the envelopes taped to the wall as a backdrop for the table. Especially the one random red envelope. Such a fun and unique idea!

By Just Call Me Martha on the blog Hostess with the Mostess

900 Sales....

2012-01-20T05:00:00.003-07:00

I reached 900 sales in my Etsy shop yesterday. That's crazy and so very cool! It'll be 3 years in February that I'll have had my shop. I remember when I first started seeing other shops with 900 - 1000 sales and thinking wow and now here I am. It's amazing! I love it so much! Thank you to all of you for your support and encouragement! I appreciate it so much!

20 Weeks....

2012-01-19T05:00:00.001-07:00

20 weeks! I took this photo yesterday. I'm at the half way mark. Most days I still don't remember I'm pregnant. I'd better get used to the idea real quick huh? : )

Fashion Police....

2012-01-18T05:00:00.002-07:00

Just for the record my Fashion Board on Pinterest looks nothing like how I actually dress. I wish it did! Lol!

Umbrellas....

2012-01-17T05:00:00.002-07:00

WOW! Found on Whit + Delight via Christa on Pinterest.

Valentine Puns at their Best....

2012-01-16T05:00:00.004-07:00

I Chews You Bubblegum Valentine's Day Gift from the blog Love the Day.

You're just Write for Me Valentine's Day Gift from FamilyFun.

I Wheelie Like You from the blog ThirtyHandmadeDays.

I have a Crush on You Valentine's Day Gift. Found on The Morphy's thanks to the awesome Kerri! I originally say this via Bree on Pinterest.

I've had my Eye on You from the blog dandee.

Our class would Knot be the same without you from the blog dandee.

I Dig You from FamilyFun.

Project Letter Writing 2012....

2012-01-13T05:00:00.001-07:00

Have you heard of Project Letter Writing 2012 yet? It was started this month by my friend Linda on her blog alamodestuff. Basically driven from her love of stationery she's encouraging others to commit to writing one letter each month of 2012. 12 letters in total no matter how big or small. Totally doable right!? As a lover of all things paper and a stationer myself I've signed up to support Linda's project as well as commit to writing the monthly letters.

Will you join us??? It's easy!
1. Follow Linda's Blog
2. Write a letter and send it to someone
3. Share it on your blog, Instagram, Twitter, Flickr, whatever site you'd like.
3. Post a link to where you shared it on Linda's blog.

That's it! Easy and Linda will be hosting giveaways throughout the year so you might get to win some cool stationery of your very own!

Here's Januaray's post. If you share your letter this month Linda will automatically send you a card for your own personal use. There's also a wonderful giveaway to sign up for! Come and join us! It's going to be a blast!

My Christmas Present Arrived.....

2012-01-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Check it out! My Christmas present arrived...in Pistachio. A huge thanks to my parents for getting me one of these. I've wanted one for a looooong time! Can't wait to make some icing! See the recipe here.

New in the Shop....

2012-01-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

I'm a Smitten Kitten Greeting Card

Love Birds Valentine's Day Greeting Card

Mustache Valentine's Day Greeting Card

An Announcement....

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the disappearing act I did last week. I've had a hard time coming out holiday mode. I need to get it in gear but am enjoying being lazy instead. Well really 2012 hasn't been all that lazy. It started off with a new computer which was a long time coming but also meant many hours and days transferring everything from the old computer over to the new one (wow was that a lot of work). Then I ended those good times with a bought of food poisoning. Gotta love that! I seem to be on the mend now and hopefully back at it on a more regular basis.

First off...I don't think I officially made the announcement here on the blog that I'm having a baby so here it is. I'm having a baby!!! This will be number 3 for us. Not only that but today we found out we're having a boy which rounds out our little family to boy, girl, boy. We're very excited and now have the daunting task of figuring out a name. Boy names are so hard! At any rate this means one more room to decorate so today I've rounded up some awesome nursery art found on Etsy that I'd be thrilled to see in our home. I'll take anything from these three amazing shops! Hope you enjoy!

FallDownTree

loopzart

trafalgarssquare

Aye Aye....

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

I want this shirt but apparently it's all sold out. : ( From J.CREW. Found via Christen on Pinterest.

Black and White....

2011-12-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

I don't have much to say about this, I just love it, that's all. Found via Christen on Pinterest.

2011-12-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

I know, Christmas is over but it's never to early to start planning for next year (insert evil laugh here). I love the use of this little bottle brush tree for packaging. How adorable and the "Merry" done up with a label maker. Awesome! Found on You Are My Fave.

Merry Christmas....

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Isn't this ornament awesome! I love it! I've said it before and I'll say it again, I sorta have a thing for bottle brush trees. This is too much fun. It was made by Jennifer of the lovely blog The Pretty Purveyor. You can find the DIY steps here.

Merry Christmas to all! I can't tell you how much I love my blog and how much I appreciate all of you for your support! I wish you all a wonderful, safe, fun holiday season! Ho, ho, ho!

Elf on the Shelf for 2012....

2011-12-22T05:00:00.002-07:00

I've only just heard about Elf on the Shelf. I'm completely enthralled by it and think my kids would love it. Definitely a tradition I want to start next year. Now were to get one, hmmm...... If you know where I can get my hands on one in Canada or via the world wide web please let me know! Thank you!

Picture from Krystin's beautiful blog Sappy Apple.

Little Golden Book Bunting....

2011-12-21T05:00:00.001-07:00

I'm in love with this bunting! It's made from a vintage, re-purposed "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" Little Golden Book. Such a fantastic idea. It, and many more cool banners made from Little Golden Books, can be found in the shop collectingfeathers on Etsy.

Snowman Donuts....

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to try making some of these for my kids this year but I'm not sure I'm going to get around to it. You can find the directions here on the fun blog Creative Gift & Party Ideas. Instead of icing though I'm thinking mini chocolate chips???

Found via Amy on Pinterest. (pssst, Amy is my sister-in-law. Thanks Amy!)

Free Printable Santa Claus Stationery....

2011-12-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

Such a fantastic idea. Free Printable Santa Claus Stationery from the wonderful blog Design Editor. Found via Amy on Pinterest.

2011-12-16T05:00:00.001-07:00

I'm completely in love with these Vintage Stamps found in the fun shop dishyvintage on Etsy.

You can see more fun stamps here.

Wreath DIY....

2011-12-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love this DIY Felt Wreath found on the awesome blog A bit of Sunshine. Realistically I have no time this year to pull this off but next Christmas watch out! You can find the DIY steps here.

Fabric Packaging....

2011-12-14T05:00:00.001-07:00

I love the idea of using fabric as packaging. I found these cuties on the wonderful blog say YES! to hoboken.

Found via Lovely Clusters on Pinterest.

Photoboother....

2011-12-13T05:00:00.002-07:00

Isn't this cool? The awesome Melanie of Your Are My Fave introduced me to the super fun site Photoboother where you can make your very own photo strips. Just pick a frame, upload 4 photos, hit develop and then either email the strip to your self or save it. You can also order prints right through the site. Easy peasy and sooooo cool! Here's my little guy showing off some of his made photo posing skills.

possibiliTrees....

2011-12-12T05:00:00.002-07:00

Oh my! I'm in love with these trees from possibiliTree. Amazing! You can choose from 3ft Tabletop trees or 6ft Suspended trees. I'll take a 3 footer please! You can find out more here.

Found via SimplyGrove.

ixxi...I heart thee....

2011-12-09T05:00:00.003-07:00

I've posted about the amazing site ixxi before but when I saw this Bambi Wall Art on SimplyGrove I just had to share again. ixxi is a modular connection system that allows you to create your own custom wall art collages. I'm so in love with this site!

Skinny Christmas Tree....

2011-12-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

How fantastic is the Twig Christmas Tree? I'm totally smitten! Found on the lovely blog The Art of Doing Stuff. Via Jessica @ Black.White,Yellow on Pinterest.

Owl Block Print....

2011-12-07T05:00:00.004-07:00

I love this Owl! Found in the fantastic Etsy shop amandakindregan.

Bottle Brush Trees....

2011-12-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

katesCottage2 on Etsy

VintageJunkyStyle on Etsy

carolfysher on Etsy

I think I have a new obsession with bottle brush trees.

Some Days....

2011-11-28T05:00:00.002-07:00

This picture makes me laugh so hard. My kids have been sick lately and it's been one of those sicknesses that just seems to hold on. It's been awesome (not!). This is how I've been feeling at the end of the day lately. Luckily I can't stop smiling when I see this cute picture so that helps.

Found via Amy's Pinterest.

Holiday Party Drink....

2011-11-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yum! I want to drink this right now...minus the vodka (psst, I don't drink). It looks so delicious and refreshing. Clearly my body is telling me to get a glass of water. The recipe and some amazing photos can be found and the wonderful blog What Katie Ate. Do not look at this blog hungry! You've been warned!

Muppets....

2011-11-24T05:00:00.018-07:00

How fantastic are these Muppet Cake Pops made by the amazing Bakerella!? I'm seriously in Muppet heaven! I could never eat these though, never! I'd just want to put them on display to enjoy all the time! So fun! Bakerella being the wonderful lady that she is has given step by step instructions on how to make your own Muppet Cake Pop master pieces on the awesome Disney site family.go.com. You can find the links o each Muppet on Bakerella's site.

Do you like the Muppets as much as I do? I grew up watching Muppets take Manhattan and The Great Muppet Caper. I'm a big fan, big! I'm really hoping the new Muppet movie is just as wonderful and charming!

Just as a side note, my favourite Muppet show is A Muppet Family Christmas were they all to Fozzie's mom's house and the Sesame Street and Fraggle Rock gang show up. I love this special!! It's Christmas to me. Unfortunately it's very hard to find on DVD and doesn't get played on tv anymore. I hope to own it someday. Youtube will do for now. Here's Part 1 of 5. : )

I love Beaker!

Rowlf was (and is) my favourite. He just seems so nice!

Pastel Christmas Village....

2011-11-23T05:00:00.001-07:00

I think I may have posted about this amazing Pastel Christmas Village last year. Whether I did or didn't it's safe to say that I'm a fan! So fantastic! This wonderful village was made by Olivia. You can see more amazing photos and find out how she did it on her blog, A Field Journal.

Paper and Felt....

2011-11-22T05:30:00.001-07:00

Now this is a wreath I like! It's made with paper and felt and can be found in the wonderful shop FlightyFleurs on Etsy.

White Christmas....tree....

2011-11-21T05:00:00.002-07:00

I loooove this tree! So fun and unique! Found on Creature Comforts Flickr via Shannon's Pinterest.

Jelly Bean Music Video....

2011-11-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the amazing music video In Your Arms by Kina Gannis? It's stop motion and made with jelly bean art and it's amazing. The director's name is Greg Jardin and it's mind blowing what he and all of the volunteers have created. I believe it took over 2 years to make, 2460 frames, 1357 hours, and 288,000 jelly beans. Wow!
You can see the Making of Video here. It's absolutely worth a watch! Enjoy!

Christmas Fun....

2011-11-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Wow! I disappeared for a bit didn't I? Sorry about that everyone. I have no good excuse just really busy! I'm hoping to be better starting off with this awesome Diorama found on Martha Stewart. Isn't it fun? I love the ham can. You can find step by step instructions on how to make your own Ski Slope Diorama here.

Found via Brittini on Pinterest.

Christmas Decor Outside the Box....

2011-11-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Ho Ho Holy dina I love this super fun, festive painted peanut garland that I found on Etsy this week! I seriously can't stop smiling, they're so awesome. You can find them in the awesome shop Raw Bone Studio. These guys come as they appear above or if you'd rather have them in ornament form that can be arranged too. You can find all varieties here.

The Pumpkin and the Rocking Star....

2011-11-04T15:20:00.000-06:00

I'm finally sharing some pictures of the Halloween fun we had this year. It was the first year that the kids were really into it and my daughter who is only a year and a half could have gone all night. She was a pumpkin and my son was a.......

"Rocking Star". Not sure why he calls it that but it's funny! People kept asking him if he was a Beatle and he's day "No, I'm Aden!". Kids are funny.

Before all the Trick or Treating fun my son and I made some Chocolate Bar Mummies an idea I found on the amazing site The Idea Room. You can see a tutorial here! The only difference from the tutorial is that we used Caramilk Bars. I think they turned out pretty cute!

Embroidery....

2011-11-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

I love the look of embroidery. Especially personalized, unique, out of the box, quirky embroidery like these two examples above. I found them on the awesome Canadian site Freckled Nest (you must check this site out!) via Jessica's Pinterest. ~~The only problem is I couldn't find the exact blog post so I'm not entirely sure where they came from. If you know please tell me.~~ The awesome ErinK left a comment letting all of use know where this embroidery can be found. It's from OhHiShop on Etsy. Unfortunately the shop is closed but there is a blog and another cool shop, Locality to check out instead. Thank you Erin! Mystery solved!

More Adorable Costumes!

2011-11-01T08:45:00.000-06:00

Okay I was going to share pics of my own kids trick or treating last night but I haven't gone through the pictures yet so I'm going to share more amazing costumes with you instead. I looooove these! Adorable! Can you tell I like Mary Poppins?!

These adorable costumes can be found on the awesome site Make It and Love It! There's even tutorials!Found via Duet Press on Pinterest.

Costumes....

2011-10-31T05:00:00.001-06:00

My two favourite costumes that I've come across this Halloween season.....

Awesome costume found on Cute Overload via Zwzzy Vintage on Pinterest.

Amazing Mary Poppins and Bert costume found on the amazing site Keiko Lynne.

This week so far....

2011-10-26T12:46:00.000-06:00

This weeks been nuts! On Monday I came to the realization that my brand new printer was just not cutting it. I found out that the store I bought it from would exchange it even though I was past their 14 day exchange policy but I had to get it back to them by today. So yesterday I did nothing but print, print, print to use up as much ink as possible before taking the printer back (see picture above). I am not the proud owner of another brand new printer which I hope to set up this afternoon. Cross your fingers for me that this one will be better.

Also today is a very exciting day for me! My shop hit 700 sales!!! I can't believe it! I mean obviously I've hit 500 and 600 sales in the past and always been thrilled but there's something about this number that is just making me say "wow"! I mean 700.....Wow! Thank you so much to all of you for your support of my blog, my shop, my newsletter, whatever. I really appreciate it so much!

That's been my week so far! How has yours been?

Simple....

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-06:00

I've always loved simple, black and white line drawings so it's understandable that I'd be drawn to these amazing wire sculptures by Masao Seki. You can see more amazing pieces on his site.

Found via the wonderful blog LUSHLEE.

PonderandStitch....

2011-10-24T05:00:00.003-06:00

Right out of the envelope.

Look what arrived in my mailbox last week! I have been in love with the Etsy shop PonderandStitch since just after it opened. I've been eyeing a custom embroidery cuff for awhile that I wanted to get my kids names put on but figured I'd better wait till I was official done having kidlets. Well the other day I wondered over to find an item for a treasury and what did I see but this amazing necklace! Next thing I know my eye caught sight of a cuff in the cutest fabric and I was sold. I am now the proud owner of two of the most amazing pieces. I'd also like to add that I've never received anything packaged so nicely! The card, the box, the string, all wonderful!

Slowly taking it apart.

This shop really is awesome and Amy, the shop owner is so nice she ever adjusted the cuff down in size a bit so that it would fit my wrist perfectly! This shop has many fun items that would make great Christmas gifts. Be sure to give it a look see.

Self Portrait.

Yum....

2011-10-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

I love this! It's a Chocolate Bar Cross Section photo taken by Rachel Been an amazing photographer, art director and photo editor. Don't you love being able to see the insides of all these yummy chocolates all at once? You can see more of Rachel Been's amazing work on her website. I found this wonderful photo via one of my favourite blogs, LUSHLEE.

SALE....

2011-10-17T09:23:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday! Just a quick post today to let you all know that I'm participating in The Alberta Team Fall Sale all week. I'm offering 10% off in my shop till Friday night. Just used the coupon code FALLSALE2011 at checkout.

You can find a complete list of all the participating shops here.

Have a great day everyone. I'll be back tomorrow! : )

Bat Cake...

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

I love this Bat Cake! Not only does it look really yummy but the black and white is so fun especially with the bats flying over top! Found via Shannon's Pinterest. (I'm really loving Shannon's Pins this week, can you tell?

Halloween Decor for your Front Door....

2011-10-13T09:17:00.000-06:00

Love these two decor ideas I found and may I mention that that front door is amazing in itself. Awesome!

The door was found on Country Living and the Google Eye Moss Wreath was found on this site. Both via Shannon's Pinterest

Halloween Party Foods....

2011-10-12T05:00:00.001-06:00

Apple Cider Floating Heads from Martha Stewart via Katie's Pinterest.

From the Etsy shop craftypagan via Lisa's Pinterest.

Found via Sweet Estelle's Pinterest. Not sure where the original image comes from. If you know please tell me so I can add a link.

From Taste of Home via Shannon's Pinterest.

From Parents via Addisons Pinterest.

Halloween....

2011-10-11T08:59:00.000-06:00

Well Halloween is exactly 3 weeks away. I admit that it's not my favourite holiday but now that my kids are getting old enough to get into it Halloween is growing on me especially considering some of the ridiculously cute Halloween ideas I've been seeing lately. So this week I thought I'd share some of them with you.

First up, this amazing pumpkin! I do not have the patience to make something this awesome, thank goodness others do so that we get to enjoy them! Unfortunately I don't know where this guy came from but if you do please let me know so I can add a link. I found him on Lisa's Pinterest. You can see other wonderful pumpkin carvings here.

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving....

2011-10-10T11:36:00.004-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my fellow Canadians! All shops in the treasuries below are from Canada. Enjoy!

by cindylouwho2

by splurge

by candychick

by sybillinart

by EngLavenderStudios

by handmadetherapy

Toms....

2011-10-07T05:00:00.001-06:00

I bought myself a present last week. Some Olive Green Toms shoes and they're just as comfy as everyone told me they'd be. If you don't know about Toms you can find out more about them here. Basically for ever pair of Toms shoes purchased a new pair is given to a child in need, One for One. The founder of Toms is going to be on Ellen today. I really like mine and have a feeling they won't be my only pair!

Smile....

2011-10-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Found on Curiosities and Clockwork via Lisa's Pin.

Just thought I'd share a couple of "Pins" with you that I found last night via Pinterest. They make me smile. : )

Found on modernhepburn via Tori's Pin.

Halloween Costume I can get on board with....

2011-10-05T11:45:00.000-06:00

Okay this is one of the cutest and most creative costumes I've seen in awhile. I found it on the awesome website Family Fun. You can see step by step instructions on how to make this costumer here.

Fall Party Ideas....

2011-10-04T05:00:00.002-06:00

Honeycomb Cupcakes found on Instructables via Laura's Pinterest.

Caramel Apples as favours found on Ruffled (DIY Howell, Michigan Wedding)

DIY Stump Cake Stand found on oncewed via Caitlin's Pinterest.

Apple Cider served in Apple Cups found Better Homes and Gardens via Nicole's Pinterest.

Oh the Drama.....

2011-10-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

So this time last week I found myself in the middle of some unexpected drama. After 4.5 years and a lot of use my printer broke. Not died but broke. The little piece right here (see below) that adjusts to the size of paper I'm printing on broke off right in the middle of an order. At first I thought all would be fine as the slider for the paper gauge was still intact but it turns out that this little piece also helps feed the paper into the printer. So alas I was hooped!

So what did I end up doing all week? Shopping, buying and setting up this bad boy! I now have a brand new, shiny printer to call my own. It's a Canon, the same brand as my last two printers (I'm a fan!), it's all decked out with fancy buttons and seems to print like a charm (knock on wood).

So I am back to being able to make these (and by these I mean stationery in general) and all is right with the world. Drama over.....I hope!

Anything unexpected happen to you recently?

Organic Woodgrain Towels.....

2011-09-30T08:43:00.000-06:00

Well West Elm has done it again....made me fall in love. These Organic Woodgrain Towels are so fun! West Elm will you please build a store in Calgary! I beg of you! Mind you if they did I'd probably end up in the poor house. I'm definitely a fan! Found via Caitlin's Pinterest.

Glasses....

2011-09-28T09:16:00.000-06:00

I really like this print I came across via Jennifer's Pinterest. Why? Because I've been wearing glasses since I was 7 and I just don't feel right without them. My glasses are very much a part of me and currently I'm sporting some chunky black ones just like the ones above. This print can be found on Cubicle Refugee.

100% DIY....

2011-09-27T05:00:00.044-06:00

Happy Tuesday everyone! Today I wanted to share with you an awesome present that my friend Kasia gave me for my birthday. She made the whole gift herself.....these amazing coasters, the card and the box she packaged them in! So amazing! A 100% DIY gift and I love it all so much! I really appreciate all the time and thought she put into it! Thank you Kasia!

Kasia is a card maker and has her own blog, The Nature of Crafty Things, where she highlights her fantastic creations! I'm super envious of all the amazing techniques she knows most of which I've never even heard of. I'm hoping one day she'll give me some lessons! Here are just a sampling of the cards she makes. And I'd just like to mention that Kasia doesn't sell her cards. I think this is wrong, very wrong! heehee. Be sure to check out her blog often to see more lovely creations!

Thank you Kasia for the wonderful birthday gift and for inspiring me to get my scrapbook paper out again. It's been too long! : )

I'm So Excited....

2011-09-26T05:00:00.001-06:00

Oh my goodness I can barely contain my excitement! After many trails and errors today is the day! Today I'm adding Coil Bound Perpetual Calendars in 6 different designs to my shop! This has been a long time coming. I've had a binding machine for over a year and there was a time when we didn't get along so well. We've made our peace though and finally I'm able to offer bound Perpetual Calendars! It's all very exciting! Be sure to check them out and give them some love! I thank you!.

Picnic in a Suitcase...

2011-09-23T05:00:00.003-06:00

I don't know about where you live but where I live the Fall weather can be a bit up and down. Sometimes cold, sometimes hot. Either way it's still prime picnic time before that awful ugly Winter comes a knocking. Let's be honest though I'd be happy to picnic on an iceberg if it meant taking this super cute vintage suitcase with me. Such a cute picnic idea and I love that the camera has been added to the goodies inside. You gotta take pictures! Found on the blog MyOwlBarn via Bethany's Pinterest.

Displaying Collections....

2011-09-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

I've never been much of a collector but if I were and if I collected tea cups this is how I'd want to display them. Such a wonderful idea! I found this via physeter_ on Pinterest. It originates from the blog Hello, I'm Tiger.

My Curtain DIY....

2011-09-21T05:00:00.002-06:00

So my DIY list is pretty long right now which is unusual for me. I like DIY and being creative but usually I have a couple of things on the go and that's it. Well right now I've got about 8 projects and I'm not sure how or when they're all going to get done. The first one to tackle though were our curtains for our main floor and I'm happy to report they're also the first DIY to get done! Yippee! I've never made curtains before so there's a very good chance I did it all wrong but whatever, they're up and seem to work so I'm calling it a win! Here's how it went!

First I laid my fabric down (right side down) and then laid the lining on top of it. I left about 7 inches at the top without lining because this is where I was going to put my grommets and figured I didn't need the extra bulk of the lining to try and cut through. I did make sure that when sewing the top of the curtain I would catch the lining in the stitch. Had to do some hard math on that one but figured it out.

Then I did some pinning and some ironing....lots and lots of ironing and I've come to the conclusion that for a sewer an iron is your best friend.

Then I sewed the sides. There was a whole lot of math involved in this that I'm not going to describe because frankly I don't want to re-live it but lets just say it worked out in the end.

Then I sewed the top but before doing so I pinned my grommet tap in place so that I'd be securing it to the curtain at the same time I was sewing. Grommet tape is a cool thing. The holes are already set for you so all you have to do it sew it to the curtain, cut the holes out and snap your grommets on. Easy however this is why all the math was required. Because the holes are already set a certain distance apart it sort of determines how wide your curtain can be. This is a good and bad thing. Still even with all the math I'll use this tape again.

Ain't it perdy?

Then using the hole as your template I used a mat knife to cut a slit and then used scissors to make an x which made it easier to cut a circle. A really, rough sad looking circle I might add. It took some work getting the size just right so the grommets would snap on easily. Eventually I get into a groove.

Here's one hole with it's grommet and another hole without. I then hemmed the bottom, ran the iron over it all once more and......

The final product. We have a patio door and two windows on either side of our fireplace so I had to make 8 95" inch curtain panels. It took a long time! A long time but they're done and we like them so that's all that matters right?

And a shot of them open. The fabric is from Ikea I might add! Can't get away from that darn Ikea!

Again I'm not sure I did it all that right but they seem to work and I plan on making some curtains now for the bonus room and kids rooms. I just have to find some cool fabric first.

Now for the rest of my DIY list. : )

***This post is part of a Collecting Color Link Up hosted by Cyn of RiverDog Prints. Anyone can participate! Collecting Color is a bi-monthly post to share what you’re working on, photographing, DIY-ing, reading or making. Anything goes, as long as it’s colorful, creative and you share a link below.

I love thee Sharpie.....

2011-09-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Today I proclaim my love for Sharpie. More specifically the Ultra Fine Point Permanent Marker Sharpie in a rainbow of colours. This is my go to pen. I bought a package of 12 in varying colours and I use them on a daily basis. They're the perfect width and any list making is a joy when you can use aqua, dandelion, peach, etc. I mean come on!

Why this sudden urge to proclaim my love? Because I saw this lamp (pictured above and below) decorated using a White Sharpie! Fantastic! I mean look what a simply Sharpie marker can do.

This awesome lamp and other amazing Sharpie ideas can be found on Better Homes and Gardens. I found the post via Babble.com and Craftzine.com but most importantly because of my awesome fellow Albertain myCHILDIsh who posted about it on Twitter. Be sure to check Sarah's site out! It's fantastic!

Fall....

2011-09-19T05:30:00.001-06:00

How I Met Your Mother

I have a love hate relationship with Fall. I hate it because it means summer's over and winter is coming. Winter and I do not get along. But I also love Fall because it means that the holidays are coming and it's cozy and it makes me want to cook chili and wear sweaters but most and best of all....it means Season Premieres! I am so excited for the next couple of weeks. Most of my favourite shows are starting and I am going to have me some couch sittin', treat eatin', tv watchin' fun!

I'm most excited for How I Met Your Mother, Modern Family, Cougar Town (not starting till mid season...booo!), Happy Endings, The Big Bang Theory, Rules of Engagement, 30 Rock, Community... you'll notice they're all Sitcoms. Sometime around when my son was born I said goodbye to the hour long dramas and hello to funny times. I just got sick of the "they're together, now they're not together" (I'm talking to you Grey's Anatomy) routine and scenes of blood and gore and awful things that made me never want to leave my house. Okay so maybe I like to live in a bubble but I'm okay with that. I'd just rather have a good laugh before bed rather than setting myself up for nightmares.

And the only new show I'm actually setting my PVR up to tape? New Girl with Zooey Deschanel. I sure hope it's funny! I'll also be watching the season premiere of Two and a Half Men. Never one of my favs but I'm curious to see how Ashton Kutcher will do. I'm routing for him, I'm not going to lie. Also there are food network shows like Eat St., Diners Drive Ins and Dives and Sugar High that I'll be checking out.

I'm pretty excited and it all kicked off with the Emmy's last night! Woo hoo! So what new shows are you looking forward too? Don't worry if they're all drama's, we can still be friends, promise. : )

Happy Endings

The Future of Bunk Beds....

2011-09-16T05:00:00.000-06:00

How cool is this, the Doc Space Saving System by Resource Furniture!? I had a bunk bed growing up but it sure didn't transform itself into a couch every day. So cool! Found on CoolThings.com via Emma's Pinterest.

New, New, New....

2011-09-13T05:00:00.001-06:00

I'm so excited! Yesterday I added two new Perpetual Calendars to my shop! The Bunting Perpetual Calendar and the Animal Perpetual Calendar. I love making these and am so excited to now have 5 designs in my shop! No more forgetting birthdays! Time to get organized!

Cross Stitch as Art....

2011-09-12T05:00:00.001-06:00

Check out this amazing cross stitch pattern that's been painted on a wall as room decor. I am in love with this idea! Amazing! This wonderful wall art can be found in the home of designer and illustrator Eline Pellinkhof (pictured below). You can see Eline's amazing blog here.

Pictures found via bloesem living and Jennifer's Pinterest.

Weekdays make my brain fuzzy.....

2011-09-08T10:22:00.001-06:00

Okay I think I've posted this picture before but I have two very good reasons for posting it again....one, I'm about to list this bad boy in my shop! woo hoo. Two, I'm having the hardest time keeping the days of the week straight. Last night I would have bet money that today was Wednesday but it turns our today is Thursday! The worst part is that I do this each week! Where is my head? Anyone else having issues keeping their brain on track? I can't be the only one!

At any rate sorry for yesterdays none post. As you know Tuesday was my birthday. I ended up being sick all day and spent it on the couch. Fun! Then yesterday was a catch up day and well frankly today is a catch up day too especially when I fall behind on tasks simply due to the fact that I don't know what day it is! Yeash!

So thanks for sticking with me. I hope to be back to a regular blog schedule next week with exciting news about new listing and some thrift shop finds that have found a place in our home. Yippee!

Hope you're all having a great week!

Sept. 6....

2011-09-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

It's my birthday! Nope, not my shops birthday but my very own birthday complete with cake and candles and I feel like celebrating so......I'm offering 33% off in my shop today to celebrate. This is the biggest discount I've ever offered and it's for one day only....today! Use coupon code BDAY2011 which will expire at 10:00pm MST. I'm off to eat cake!

The fantastic candles above can be found in the Etsy shop stilts.

This week....

2011-09-02T09:03:00.000-06:00

This week has been nuts. Even with the kids gone all week it's been very busy and it didn't help that the curtains took way longer than planned. There were 7 panels to make though so what did I expect really, haha! Here are a couple of shots of what I've been working on all week. I'll hopefully get a decent finished shot for the blog next week. In the meantime we're off to get the kiddies tomorrow. I wish you all a fantastic long weekend and I'll see you all on Tuesday! : )

Spooky!

2011-09-01T10:30:00.000-06:00

Hey! Did you know that I write a weekly post on the awesome blog A La Mode Stuff? Check out this weeks post for all my Spooky finds!

Top to Bottom, Left to Right

1. erinf115

2. BrickHouseStudio

3. TheVintageLacy

4. bbond0520

Chimney Cakes....

2011-08-30T05:00:00.001-06:00

Last week the kiddies and I went to a local farmers market to pick up some new shoes for the girl. While there I discovered the most delicious pastry, Chimney Cakes from the wonderful booth Twisted Cafe. Oh my goodness! These cakes are made without milk or eggs but instead with applesauce and potatoes. Lemon zest is also added. The dough is then wrapped around a tub of some sort and when it's finished cooking you can have yours topped with cinnamon sugar, almonds, coconut...I think there were 6 different topping to choose from. We got ours with cinnamon sugar and it was sooo good! Both kids couldn't get enough and I fear now that my craving for it may take us on a weekly trip to the market. Oh yum! If you ever get the chance to purchase one, do! You won't be sorry and they would make great hostess gifts or presents for neighbours, friends, relatives. Yum! Highly recommend!

Stay-cation....

2011-08-29T05:00:00.005-06:00

This picture was taken last night at the path just around the corner from our house. We live really close to the coulee. It's such a beautiful view and some days you can see the Mountains on the horizon.

Why am I sharing this with you today? Because this week my husband and I are enjoying a stay-cation. The kids are gone all week visiting their grandparents. They haven't even been gone 48 hours and we've already, gone shopping at the mall, gone to dinner at a restaurant I love but haven't been too in over two years, gone to a movie....together (Crazy, Stupid, Love...it was awesome! I highly recommend), taken a nap in the middle of the day, eaten pizza in front of the tv while watching a movie with swears in it, gone for a walk at 8:00pm and left the house at 9:00pm to go visit friends! That's a whole lot of stuff that we don't get to do on a regular basis and we still have plans for more movies and eating out. I also need to make 7 curtain panels and refinish a dresser. That's a busy week. I miss my kids! I love them so much but it is nice to have a break from the regular routine. I hope you all have wonderful weeks too!

Amazing Before and After....

2011-08-26T05:00:00.000-06:00

Okay I had to share the following before and after with you because it kind of made me gasp. Seriously! I found it on the fantastic blog Pure Style Home by Lauren Leiss. These images come from a post showing the before and after makeover of Lauren's 70's home. It's amazing! Go and check it out! You must!

Okay the before shot of the foyer....

....and now the after shot! Kind of hits you in the face with fanasticness doesn't it? Holy wow! I can't even believe it's the same space!

Happy Anniversary....

2011-08-25T08:30:00.000-06:00

My husband and I were married on this day 11 years ago. 11 years! What the what? It's hard to believe that much time has passed but it has and it's been wonderful!

This picture was taken about 5 or 6 years ago but it's one of my favourites and has a place on a shelf in the office. Since then we've taken on new jobs, moved to a new house, had two kids, gone on many vacations.... it's been a fantastic 11 years! Love you husband!

And now for Something Completely Different....

2011-08-24T05:00:00.001-06:00

Okay I realize this week is turning into a bit of a theme. Sorry about that. I've reached a level of frustration and I need to vent about it so that I can move past. : ) Thanks for baring with me.

So today I thought I'd share some examples of what I think I'm going to have to do furniture wise....as well as Ikea of course! I've started visiting my local Thrift Shops in hopes of finding a wonderful piece to refinish and again not cost an arm and a leg. This approach however comes with a handful of issues.....

Thrift shopping is time consuming....time consuming!!! Why? Because they're not just going to have the perfect piece sitting there waiting for you. And even if you find one with great lines it's used, there could be all sorts of damage going on some of which can't be fixed. Also these pieces are old, the drawers might not slide properly, they might smell, etc. And because it's so hard to find the right piece and there's so much turn over at these stores you have to go often. It's fun, don't get me wrong but like I said, time consuming!!!

Also I'm a clean looking, straight lines, modern kind of girl and there are a lot of very ornate, decorative pieces out there in the thrift shops. Refinished I do like the more decorative look but not for every room in our house. Bedrooms, yes, downstairs yes but on them main floor with what we currently have I just can't see it.

Dimensions play another major factor. You might find a piece that looks exactly as you hoped but oh wait, it's too wide or too deep or too tall or all three at once! A few weeks ago I found two pieces that were fantastic! Great lines, drawers worked nicely but the dimensions were all wrong. I need a dresser no more than four feet wide, the one I found was much longer. I need a long cabinet for behind the couch and the one I found was too tall and too wide. Frustration overload I tell you!

And the one final and most crucial issue....once you find that perfect piece you still have to refinish it. I have no experience with this so I'm assuming the first few pieces I do are not going to be my finest work. Also there's a very good chance that the time it takes to refinish a piece of furniture is going to put me over the edge as well and I'll find myself back at the furniture stores I proclaimed to hate so much in my first post this week!

Oh the joys of decorating! With all my complaining I do love it. It takes a long time but when you finally find the right piece or complete the look of a room it's a great feeling! And with all the complications thrift shopping brings I did find the most fantastic chair recently. It was only $5.00 and has great lines! We're not really in need of a chair but for $5.00 it was coming home with me. The fact that it needs to be reupholstered which I've never ever done and refinished is something I'm choosing to ignore right now. For the time being I'm just going to enjoy the thrill of the find!

The following examples of refinished furniture can be found on my For the Home pinboard on Pinterest.

Furniture....

2011-08-23T08:28:00.000-06:00

Okay so after yesterday's rant I thought I'd show some examples of the type of furniture I'm looking for. Now I am well aware that some of these pieces probably cost the astronomical amount that I complained about in yesterday's post but I'm not buying these...I'm just looking and hoping that one day I'll find a beautiful piece like these at a reasonable price. Currently we're looking for two bedside tables, a dresser, a long cabinet to put our tv on, another long cabinet with storage for behind our couch, a dresser or cabinet for our front entry. That's not a lot right? Yeash! All of these can be found via my For the Home pinboard on Pinterest.

Frustration....

2011-08-22T05:00:00.012-06:00

So on Saturday I got a lot frustrated. Why? Because we went furniture shopping. I hate it, I truly hate it. There seems to be an abundance of furniture stores out there just full of stuff that's not the right look, not the right shape, not the right colour and the few furniture stores that I do find items in seem to think it's fine and dandy to charge $2100.00 for one bedside table. Yup I said ONE!

So what ends up happening? 9 times out of 10 we end up at Ikea. Now I love Ikea don't get me wrong but I get teased a bit for how much Ikea I have in my house (to be clear it isn't that much!). I mean yes there have been times over the years when you could walk into a room in my house and say "hey isn't that page 56 of the Ikea catelog" but I can't help it. Why? Because Ikea has sleek, modern designs at reasonable prices. Yes I have to put it together and yes it's made out of particle board but I've been an Ikea shopper for a long time and I can say....the stuff lasts! So while I'm going to do my best to not fill my house with more Ikea goodness I may just end up back there and if that means not going to the poor house because I only spent $150.00 on a bed side table instead of $2100.00 I'm okay with that. At least my house will have some continuity to it and if my kids bash the heck out of the stuff that's okay. I know where to get a new ones....at a reasonable price!

Stupid furniture shopping. Getting me all riled up and angry and subjecting my poor readers to this long, ridiculous post. See, yet another reason to hate furniture shopping. Below are some wonderful examples of rooms containing Ikea pieces. Rant over! : )

Love the Expedit book shelve in this nursery! We have it as well but the skinnier version. Found on Design Pad via Marli's Pinterest.

Okay there's too much Ikea goodness in this picture to list it all. I see a little Lack, a little Expedit, and a whole lot of lovely!Found on vi.sualize.us via Tamara's Pinterest.

This Hemnes Shoe Cabinet isn't an Ikea piece I'd purchase for my home but I do love the way it looks in this one. Love the mirror over top and the frames on the wall. Found on Small Space Style via Debby's Pinterest.

Oh the Malm dresser in white. I know thee very well. I have 2 of thee in my kids rooms but in birch. : ) Found on Pure Style Home via Jemma's Pinterest.

Mini Pies....

2011-08-19T10:15:00.000-06:00

This is just about the cutest thing ever! Mini Caramel Apple Pies found on the blog Tracey's Culinary Adventures.

I love Pyrex.....

2011-08-18T05:00:00.001-06:00

As seen on Anonymous Was a Woman. Found via Amanda on Pinterest.

I love Pyrex, clap, clap, clap, clap, clap. I love Pyrex, clap, clap, clap, clap, clap. No seriously the colours, the shapes, the patterns. Pyrex is high up there on my Me Likey list. It also reminds me of my grandma which is always a good thing. When she moved out of her house I snagged her Yellow Pyrex Mixing Bowls (similar to the third picture below), not to mention her Tupperware Measuring Cups. : ) Miss you grandma!

Found on Kelly's Pin Board on Pinterest.

Daisy Orange Pyrex Bowls found in the shop A Vintage Corner on Etsy.

moonstation....

2011-08-17T05:00:00.002-06:00

I love the product photos in the super fun shop moonstation on Etsy. I love the crisp, clean look but most of all I love how the majority of the photos are displayed upside down! It's so visually pleasing and interesting to look at! I especially like the sweet little owl who looks like he's peeking in on you! Be sure to check this shop out!

Swoon....

2011-08-16T09:19:00.001-06:00

This wedding photo is so cute! What an adorable idea! I'm thoroughly impressed with the coordination of colour tones as well! Brilliant!

Found on Swoon via Amanda on Pinterest.

Polyvore.....

2011-08-15T05:00:00.000-06:00

Natural by craftedbylindy featuring a leather shoulder bag

Do you know the site Polyvore? I discovered it this weekend. It's fun! You can create your own fashion inspiration boards. You can "clip" items from the internet and then create sets that you can then share. You can start with a new page or use one of their templates. You can also search by colour or price range and you can follow other Polyvore users. There's actually a lot you can do with Polyvore that I haven't even figured out yet. You can play around without having an account so go have some fun, see what you can come up with!

Get the Camper Ready....

2011-08-12T05:00:00.000-06:00

It's the weekend! No I'm not going camping but I am spending it with my awesome family. Hopefully doing some thrift store shopping, some water skiiing (for the record I only ride in the boat) and lots of yummy eating. I hope you all have a fantastic weekend too!

This awesome Camper Sign can be found in the fun shop SlippinSouthern on Etsy.

Holy Wow....

2011-08-11T05:00:00.001-06:00

I actually said "Holy Crap" out loud when I saw this on Pinterest the other night. Wow! Wow, wow, wow! This is an amazing photo and I'm really digging grey and yellow lately as a colour combo! I found this lovely photograph by Paul Frederiksen on Sunsurfer via Christen on Pinterest.

Wednesday Wishes....

2011-08-10T05:00:00.002-06:00

I wish I wasn't such a scardy cat. I've been thinking about getting bangs for a long time but I don't think I have the guts to go through with it. I've never had bangs. I'm not sure what style of bangs to get. I'm not sure I'd like them. I do know that I'm sick of the current hair style that I've had for as long as I can remember. I mean lets be honest even with bangs the mommy ponytail is here to stay but at least the bangs would add some visual interest, no? I think if I had a stylist I really liked and trusted I'd do it but currently I have neither so that is another problem. Do any of you have bangs? Do you like them? Hate them? Do tell!

Picture 1: Found on Garance Dore via Renee on Pinterest.

Picture 2: Found on lyricsdog.eu via Erin on Pinterest.

Mr. Squirrel.....

2011-08-09T05:00:00.001-06:00

I'm not entirely sure where this little squirrel came from but I know I love him! Found on FFFFOUND.com via Caitlin's Pinterest.

Cake in a Jar....

2011-08-08T05:00:00.001-06:00

It is extremely important that I make these! Neapolitan Cake in a Jar found on Babble.com, The Family Kitchen. Awesome recipe and be sure to also check out the great How To for making Two Toned Icing on Goodlife Eats.

Sneek Peek.....

2011-08-05T09:33:00.000-06:00

I've been working on some new designs for the shop. I'm really excited about this one. Can you guess what it is?

Happy weekend everyone! : )

Sticky Moos....

2011-08-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Moo.com was giving away stickers to the first 1000 Etsy sellers to place an order. I was lucky enough to get me some and they arrived last week. You could get square, round or sticker books I believe. I went with the sticker book as I thought the size of the stickers inside would work great for closing the bags I use for packaging my gift tags and mini cards. I think they turned out pretty darn cute! Thank you Moo!

Doilies put to Good Use....

2011-08-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

I've been noticing a lot of doilies lately. On dresses, walls, packaging and all I can say is me likey! Above are some of the examples I speak of.

Top to Bottom, Left to Right

*Found on Emmaline Bride

*Found on Flickr via Kristen on Pinterest.

*Found on rubyju via Cheryl on Pinterest.

*Found on Pursuing the Picture Perfect Wedding

*Found on Deco Chic via Sue on Pinterest.

*Found on Sandy a la mode via Josee on Pinterest.

Baby Photographer for a Day....

2011-08-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago my friend Lynette asked me to come over with my camera so we could play around and take a few shots of her adorable new baby girl Emily. So with one of my favourite things in tow, my 50mm lense, I went on over and with the help of the dining room table, some white blankets, books and a couch cushion (not to mention the adorable baby) here are a few of the shots we came up with. I am by no means a baby photographer but I think they turned out pretty darn cute. Thank goodness for digital cameras. I swear for about every 10 pictures you take 1 turns out really well!

Stanley Chow Illustration....

2011-08-01T05:00:00.001-06:00

You may remember me mentioning Stanley Chows Illustrations in this post from last week. Since then I've had a chance to explore his site more and I've very much fallen in love. I've especially been enjoying browsing through his shop on The Big Cartel where all three of these prints can be found. And as if being able to look at this wonderful artwork online wasn't enough Stanley Chow has his very own free iPhone app! I'm all over that action! Be sure to check his site out!

Animal Index....

2011-07-29T05:00:00.003-06:00

How fun are these?! Animal Index found on h concept via Kate on Pinterest. Have a great weekend everyone!

Wednesday Wishes....

2011-07-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

I wish I was in Mexico because this is how happy I feel when I'm in Mexico. Found on the awesome site Stanley Chow Illustration via Chelsea on Pinterest.

I wish my mom wasn't allergic to cats! Found on LLBwwb via Andrea on Pinterest.

I wish I was a better baker so I could make these anytime I wanted! Found on Style Me Pretty via Pinterest.

Summer Party....

2011-07-26T05:00:00.001-06:00

I want to have a summer party. Here are some of the reasons why....

Cute invitations found on You Are My Fave.

Lemonade Stand found on One Charming Party.

Paper Straws from Cupcake Social on Etsy.

Fruit Ice Cubes found on the blog She Walks in Beauty via Elle Moss Photography on Pinterest.

Summer Cloth Bunting found on Eddie Ross via Ashley on Pinterest.

Rainbow Shoes....

2011-07-25T05:00:00.001-06:00

Aren't these the most fantastical shoes ever?! I so wish my feet were smaller. Size 6 just isn't going to work! Bah! My team mate grain introduced me to these shoes through a wonderful treasury she created. The shoes themselves can be fund in the awesome shop danadaisys (aka concetta's closet) on Etsy.

Road Trip.....

2011-07-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

I found the super fun shop RetroRoadsidePhoto on Etsy last night. The photos are amazing and I love that while it's a photography shop there's a very distinct theme and a great one at that! Be sure to check this wonderful shop out. Have a great weekend everyone!