The Artful Crafter

Character Light Bulb Ornaments: Rudolph

2009-12-22T05:00:00.008-06:00

You’ll find the basic supply list, as well as directions for a light bulb snowman ornament in Friday’s post.

Yesterday we made Santa Claus. Today, we’ll do Rudolph – just in time to guide Santa’s sleigh!

Additional Supplies for the Reindeer:

• Delta Ceramcoat Acrylic Paint in Teddy Bear Brown and white
• 10 mm red pompom
• 1 piece of brown felt
• Sharpie Ultra Fine Permanent Markers in black and pink
• Sparkle Mod Podge Decoupage Medium
• Small paint brush
• Antler and ear template

Instructions:

Open a new word processing program document.

Click on the template above and copy. Paste the template into the new document.

Move the cursor over the lower right corner until you can grab the corner and stretch the template so that the antler is approximately two inches tall.

Print.

Make the hanger and decoupage the bulb as for the snowman light bulb ornament.

Paint the entire bulb in brown paint. Add a second coat and let dry.

Cut out two antlers and two ears. Place a tiny dab of glue at the very bottom edge of each ear and pinch together to form a fold in the ears. Let dry.

Use the black marker to place lines on the antlers for dimension. Then outline the antlers with the Sparkle Mod Podge and a small paint brush. Let dry. Color the inner ears with the pink marker.

Paint the eyes on the bulb in white. Outline the eyes with the black marker and make a black circle over the white of the eyes. Add just a tiny dot of white over the black dot.

Draw a mouth with the black marker. Glue on the pompom nose. Paint a small amount of Sparkle Mod Podge on the nose.

Glue on the ears just in front of the wire hanger. Glue the antlers just behind the wire hanger.

Come back tomorrow for the last in our series of fun character light bulb ornaments.

Tags: character ornaments, holiday craft, light bulb ornaments, craft tutorial, Christmas tree ornaments, craft ideas, Christmas craft

Character Light Bulb Ornaments: Santa

2009-12-21T05:00:00.005-06:00

You’ll find the basic supply list, as well as directions for a light bulb snowman ornament in Friday’s post.

Additional Supplies for the Santa:

• Fine tip liner brush• Delta Ceramcoat Acrylic Paint in white, pink, blue, red, skin tone and black
• Tulip Pearl Dimensional Paint in Liquid Pearl
• 10 inches of red bulky yarn or red felt for the hat
• 2 metal snowflake charms
• 1 silver rhinestone, 1 red rhinestone and 2 green rhinestones
• Sparkle Mod Podge Decoupage Medium
• White fleece – ¾-inch wide and the diameter of the metal part of the bulb

Instructions:

Make the hanger and decoupage the bulb as for the snowman light bulb ornament.

Paint two coats of white paint on the bulb. Paint the metal top and the wire in red.

Paint an oval area on the bulb in skin tone for the face.

Use the liner brush and black paint to paint the eyes and nose making very fine lines. Paint the eyes blue and pupil black and a tiny white dot just to the side of each pupil. Paint the mouth and cheeks in pink.

Use the dimensional fabric paint to make small swirls of the paint straight from the tube all around the face for hair and for the mustache and beard. Use the other end of a paint brush to add further texture to the beard and hair. Add more dimensional paint to make this area thick.

Then add more swirls with the other end of the paint brush. Paint on eyebrows with the 3D paint.

Paint Sparkle Mod Podge on the remaining white areas of the bulb.

Apply glue to the metal cap of the bulb. Wind red yarn around the cap, starting from the bottom, winding upwards and pressing the yarn into the glue. Cut the yarn leaving a 4-inch tail. Glue the loose end to the opposite side of the metal cap.

Grab what will be the peak of Santa’s hat and twist the double strand of yarn together. Apply a small amount of glue to hold the twist together.

Glue the two snowflake charms together with the peak of Santa’s hat in between. [Red felt could also be used for the hat with a white pompom at the peak.]

With a small paint brush, add some Sparkle Mod Podge to the hat and the snowflake. When dry, add a rhinestone to the middle of the snowflake.

Glue a strip of white fleece around the bottom to form the brim of the hat. Paint some Sparkle Mod Podge here as well. Glue the hanging part of the hat to the white fleece to hold it in place.

Glue the red and green rhinestones to the brim on the opposite side.

Come back tomorrow when we’ll make Rudolph – just in time for him to guide Santa’s sleigh!

Tags: character ornaments, holiday craft, light bulb ornaments, craft tutorial, Christmas tree ornaments, craft ideas, Christmas craft

Artsy Bloggers Roundup

2009-12-20T05:00:00.002-06:00

Christmas Freebies and Prizes
Aileen's Musings
As a gift to you Aileen's created 2 beautiful recipe cards for you to download and print.

The Crochet Dude
Drew reveals his themed Christmas wrap and also announces a fantastic giveaway!

Cross Stitch at About.com
Wishing you Merry and Bright holidays with a cheerful free pattern perfect for the holiday season.

Craftside-A Behind-the-Scenes Peek at a Crafty World
The Holiday Goodness Giveaways are in full swing with lots of great answers to fun questions and a week more to enter to win free books along with a free knit placemat pattern with a plaid detail, ribbon and pom pom trimmed dish towel, apron and Christmas tree how-tos, and an inside peek into artist studio with some fun recycled storage ideas.

Spreading Holiday Cheer
The Artful Crafter
Eileen’s been elf-ed! Join in the fun and spread some holiday cheer. There’s still time for a few more elf-ings.

About Family Crafts
Find out how you can spread the holiday spirit throughout your entire neighborhood using this fun pass-it-on gift.

Last Minute Christmas Ideas
Cathie Filian
Check out Cathie's quick video on how to make a Christmas tree from a tomato cage.

Margot Potter-The Impatient Crafter
Know someone bitten by the Twilight bug? Check out Madge's holiday themed Twilight silhouette ornament and pendant project for iLoveToCreate teen!

For Christmas Past
Stefanie Girard's Greeting Card Album Craftiness
How to decorate your Greeting Card Album for Christmas and recycle a card from last year with a fabric die cut.

Farm Girl Roots, City Girl Style
Where did December go? Linda's sharing her mantel decorations as she ponders her lack of handmade gifts this year. Yikes!

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy has received the first submissions for her book's gallery, and talk about impressive! Wow! Some amazing metal jewelry by Victoria Tillotson.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, jewelry making, craft projects

Saturday Craft Link Love Swap

2009-12-19T05:00:00.004-06:00

::: Craft ::: Link ::: Love :::

On Saturdays, a group of my crafting friends and I are gathering up our best links to share with each other. The idea is to send our readers to other crafters and artists whose work we admire.

So join in the fun and make the rounds. And if you see something you like, please leave some love (comments) behind – especially on links which don’t have much yet. We all could use a little love :-D

::: Craft ::: Link ::: Love :::

Creative Dreamer
A Christmas tree named Charlie … and the elfin magic that makes him special.

The Artful Crafter
Just look at the darling ornaments you can make from mini clay flower pots!

Mixed Media Artist
Make a stab-bound scrapbook or journal to hold all your Christmas cards and memories this year!

Hankering for Yarn
Noreen became a grandmother for the first time last week, and so she's over the moon. She's made some cute little mini folders for baby pictures and has posted a tutorial on how to make these dandy little treasures.

Gadabout Media DIY
Do you really need jewelry pliers? And what is the difference between all those different "noses"? Chloe has a basic guide to get you started.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, jewelry making, craft projects

Character Light Bulb Ornaments

2009-12-18T05:00:00.005-06:00

Let These Light Bulbs Ornaments Add Character to Your Christmas Tree

These light bulb ornaments are simply “brilliant”. Use burned out bulbs to be really eco-friendly.

We’ve done a snowman, reindeer, Santa and Christmas tree for you. The Christmas tree ornament reminds me of a Dr. Seuss creation. LOL.

Think about other characters or shapes that would lend themselves to the light bulb shape. How about a polar bear or penguin or a partridge and a pear?

We used an egg carton to set the ornaments in for drying. You can also lay them across the top while drying or you can hang them to dry.

Supplies Needed for All the Ornaments:

• Light Bulb
• White tissue paper torn into small pieces
• Mod Podge Decoupage Medium
• ½-inch paint brush
• 9 inches of 24 gauge wire
• Aleene’s Clear Gel Tacky Glue

Additional Supplies for the Snowman:

• Delta Ceramcoat Acrylic Paint in black and white
• Sparkle Mod Podge Decoupage Medium
• Sharpie Ultra Fine Permanent Markers in orange and black
• 8 inches of bulky red yarn or small strip of Christmas fabric

Instructions:

Decoupage small pieces of the tissue paper to cover the glass of the light bulb. When dry, add another coat of the medium. To speed the drying time, place the bulb in front of a small fan or use a hair dryer on the lowest setting.

Take the wire and wrap one end around one of the top grooves in the light bulb. Twist the end around the remaining wire to anchor. Make a large loop up and over the top and anchor the other end of the wire to the wrapped wire.

Paint the bulb in two coats of white paint. Paint the metal top and the wire in black paint.

Paint a coat of Sparkle Mod Podge over the white paint. Let dry completely.

Use markers to make black dots for the eyes, mouth and buttons. Make a carrot shaped nose with the orange marker.

Glue the red yarn around the neck of the bulb just below the face. Tie in a knot to one side. If using a Christmas-themed fabric, just cut a narrow strip and slightly fray the edges.

Okay. That’s the basics. Come back Monday for the details on our other Christmas Character light bulb ornaments!

Tags: character ornaments, holiday craft, light bulb ornaments, craft tutorial, Christmas tree ornaments, craft ideas, Christmas craft

Easy Acrylic Bead Ornament Variations #2 and 3

2009-12-17T05:00:00.001-06:00

[We made Variation #1 yesterday.]

Take 3 chenille stems and bend each into a V shape. String 13 large beads on each leg of the Vs. Push down to the center leaving ½ inch of open stem showing at the V’s angle.

Cut the remaining stem in half and bend into a V. Hang the beaded Vs on this V and twist the ends to secure. Continue twisting to achieve the finished look below (right side of photo).

The other end will form the hanger. Twist one end around the others to secure. Cut all but one down to the just wrapped stem.

Wrap the remaining cut half of stem around the top leaving enough unwrapped to bend into a hook.

Hold the top of the ornament in one hand and twist the bottom in one direction to form a spiral. Open it up just a little.

Cut the bottom twisted stem to the length desired.

Ornament #3 – String 10 small beads to the end of the chenille stem. Place a dab of glue at the end to secure.

String 11 large beads on the other end and then 10 more small beads. Place another dab of glue at this end.

When the glue is completely dry, curve one end to form a small hook. Then wrap the strung beads around a marking pen to form a spiral.

Tags: kids craft, holiday craft, snow day craft project, craft tutorial, Christmas tree ornaments, craft ideas, Christmas craft

“Snow Day” Acrylic Bead Christmas Ornaments

2009-12-16T05:00:00.001-06:00

Here’s a (certified by Miss SmArty) kid-friendly craft to get you and the kids through one of the upcoming snow days with smiles on your faces and Christmas Cheer in your heart. The endless variety of possible options in shape and complexity make this project suitable for kids of all ages.

These ornaments made using large-hole acrylic beads are quick and easy to make. They can be done in a variety of shapes from simple candy canes and icicles to the bird cage shown above.

Three variations are provided in this tutorial.

Supplies:

• 1 Package acrylic multi-colored faceted beads (with holes large enough to string on chenille “pipe cleaner” stems)
• Aleene’s Clear Gel Tacky Glue
• Wire cutters

Plus for:
• Ornament #1
1. 4 chenille stems (pipe cleaners) any color
2. 1 Black chenille stem
3. 1 Small craft bird
4. Heavy duty thread or 2 strands of embroidery floss any color

• Ornament #2 – 4 chenille stems any color

• Ornament #3 – 1 chenille stem any color

Instructions:

Ornament #1 - String 3 chenille stems with beads in desired pattern leaving 1 ¼ inch of stem open on each end.

Gather all 6 ends together to form the top of the ornament. Take one end and wrap it around all the others to secure. Tie heavy thread or 2 strands of embroidery floss around all three layers of beading at the bottom and knot to secure. Place a small dab of glue on the knot.

Place the tied bottom of the ornament in the palm of your hand and slightly push down on the top to open it up forming a ball shape.

To form the hanger, insert the 4th chenille stem through the middle at the top leaving a 3-inch tail on one side. Bring the 3-inch end up close to the gathered ends.

Wrap the long end around all the others …

… until only two pieces are not wrapped.

Squeeze the two visible tails together and form into a hook.

Cut the black chenille stem to fit from one side to the other inside the ball and form the bird’s perch. Glue in place.

Put the little bird into his cage and glue him to the perch so he doesn’t fly away!

Come back tomorrow for acrylic bead ornament variations #2 and 3.

Tags: kids craft, holiday craft, snow day craft project, craft tutorial, Christmas tree ornaments, craft ideas, Christmas craft

I’ve been Elf-ed!

2009-12-15T05:00:00.004-06:00

My crafty blogging friend, June Crawford at A Creative Dream elf-ed me the other day. I thought “What a clever way to spread some Christmas cheer” and went right to work on my own elfin gift.

I printed out the darling “You’ve been Elf-ed!” card which June so kindly has posted on her blog for people to copy. Since I’m wintering in a poor area of Mexico, I decided to give my elf-ing a little twist to suit the circumstances.

Not wanting to obligate some poor local to buy a gift for a perfect stranger, I wrote on the back of the card in my best Spanish.

“Congratulations! This Christmas elf hid this little gift for you. The only thing you need to do is give a piece of the candy to someone you love and tell them so. Happy Christmas!”

My Spanish is not the best so I hope the recipient can figure out what I’m trying to say. I didn’t have time to handcraft a gift, so I thought I’d pick up something in the supermarket.

I hoped for a child to find the gift, or perhaps parents who would then have an extra Christmas present for one of their niños. So I selected this cute little plushy guy in the shape of a boot, wearing a Santa hat and filled with chocolates.

After the candy is gone, the child will have a little zipper pouch that can be played with, used as a purse, pencil case or … whatever.

It was by sheer coincidence (and I didn’t even realize it until I looked at these photos!) that my little gift is pretty much the spitting image of the elf on the card. Just look: elfin figure wearing Santa hat stuffed into a boot/stocking with candy. How cool is that?!

I left for church Sunday a little early so I would have time to hide the gift somewhere in plain sight. Do you realize how hard that is to do? After some thought, I decided to set it outside this little neighborhood “mini-super” grocery store.

I put it on the ground beside a telephone pole sporting an overflowing garbage can on the opposite side. If the garbage men came before someone found it, they might try to pick it up but surely would recognize that it wasn’t garbage.

Casual passers-by would walk past without a second glance, thinking it was some garbage that had fallen out of the can or been left by someone who had pretty bad aim.

It kind of blends in with the paper scraps, rocks and weeds in the gutter. Until you look closer …

When I came back from church an hour later, my little elf-ing was already gone, but the garbage hadn’t been picked up. Yes! I hope it brought smiles to some faces and now has a good home.

If you want to join in the joy, go to A Creative Dream, where June is still recruiting elves. The world needs more reasons to smile.

¡Feliz Navidad!

Tags: Christmas spirit, elf-ed, random acts of kindness, Christmas elf, give anonymously, make someone smile, Feliz Navidad

Wrapping Paper Floral Foam Trees Directions

2009-12-14T05:00:00.003-06:00

[Find the list of materials in Friday’s post.]

Cover the tree with one thick coat of Mod Podge. This will make for a smoother surface. Let dry. In the meantime, use the paper punch to cut out about 100 circles from the wrapping paper.

[Tip: Using wrapping paper with a lot of background color and a small amount of detail comes out really cute. Just cut out more of the background and some of the detail and use the detailed circles sporadically around the tree.]

Starting at the bottom of the tree, decoupage overlapping circles all around. You don’t need to worry about spacing them evenly around the tree as this will not change the appearance when done.

Continue doing layers of the circles around the tree starting each new row between two circles in the row below. You do not want to have any of the cone showing; so overlapping as you build up and around will cover it nicely.

When you get to the top, the last row will have some overhang. Decoupage the overhanging pieces together and let dry. When dry, fold the excess paper down over the top.

Coat the entire tree one more time with a coat of Mod Podge. When dry, use a glue gun (or Tacky Glue) to glue the strung beading in a spiral starting from the top of the tree. You could also drape swags of beading as you would a garland on a tree.

Glue a wood ball on top. The 1-inch ball goes on the 9-inch cone and the smaller ones on the smaller cones.

Paint two coats of silver paint on each ball. Paint a second coat and immediately sprinkle on the white glitter while the paint is still wet. Glue strung beading around the bottom of each ball.

Glue the trim to the bottom of each tree. To add sparkle to the trim you can add glitter accents with Elmer’s Glue-All and some blue glitter.

Tags: kids craft, holiday craft, , décor crafts, Christmas tree mantlepiece, craft ideas, craft tutorial, winter-theme craft

Artsy Bloggers Roundup

2009-12-13T05:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas and Winter Crafts
Cathie Filian
Whip up a vintage style wreath for the holidays!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
Die cut, stamped and shrunk deer Christmas necklace made with inspiration from the book Beyond the Bead.

The Artful Crafter
Just look at the darling ornaments you can make from mini clay flower pots!

Aileen's Musings
Aileen's found a great use for those left over cards you have! Check out her Recycled Christmas Card project.

The Impatient Crafter
It's Project #2 from Madge's Retrofabulous Christmas Craftabration! Perky Pixie Ornament!

Fabric and Fiber Crafts
Farm Girl Roots, City Girl Style
Another project from the past--a quick and easy baby quilt.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy is thrilled about a new set of bamboo crochet hooks she finally purchased from an Etsy seller.

Cross Stitch at About.com
Having a hard time finding time to stitch during the holiday season? Read Connie's time-saving tips and share your own.

The Crafting Life and Free Stuff
About Family Crafts
Do you make your own Christmas cards? If you do, please take a moment and share your designs and then browse through the pictures of other peoples' creations.

Craftside – A Behind-the-Scenes Peek at a Crafty World
The 19 Days of Holiday Goodness Giveaways is week 2, leave your answer to the day's question and you are entered to win a free book and while you're there check out how to make pockets from coffee filters, crochet a 4 color spiral, some cool fashion insights, a whole bunch of recycled clothing ideas and a bit of architecture.

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi is giving away a copy of Chain Style by Jane Dickerson! Come leave a comment and you'll be entered for the drawing.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, Christmas craft ideas, craft tips, beading projects, craft tutorials, fabric crafts, holiday decor, craft ideas, holiday paper crafts

Saturday Craft Link Love Swap

2009-12-12T05:00:00.006-06:00

::: Craft ::: Link ::: Love :::

This week we have free stuff for the winning and holiday crafts mixed with a bit of seed beading fun. Plus some holiday inspiration. Clues: It is better to give than to receive; and A child shall lead them. Enjoy!

Creative Dreamer
Creative Dreamer is issuing a dare to help spread random acts of holiday cheer. ... Come see what it is. ... I dare ya ...

Gadabout Media DIY
Make a cute little snowman softy using a vintage knitter, knitting loom or even a spool knitter.

Hankering for Yarn
Last weekend, Noreen met the most amazing child who dazzled her with her insight and wisdom ...

Beading Arts
Cyndi is giving away a copy of Seed Bead Fusion by Rachel Nelson-Smith! Come leave a comment and you'll be entered for the drawing.

The Artful Crafter
A bead spinner is not required, but certainly recommended, to make a beautiful seed bead Christmas tree like this one created by Shaaron.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, fiber crafts, weaving, craft ideas, craft magazine

Floral Foam Cones put Old Wrapping Paper to Good Use in a Kid-friendly Craft Project

2009-12-11T05:00:00.001-06:00

Here’s a pretty holiday craft project to do with the kids. If you’re like me, you have lots of old wrapping paper scraps that could be put to good use.

Avoid one of those “oh no – now what?!” snow days by laying in the other supplies before the storm. Then surprise the kids with some creative fun on your “found day” together!

Depending on your/their choice of wrapping paper, these decorative trees would be suitable for Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa or just plain winter.

Supplies:

• Oasis floral foam cones (the green type – not white Styrofoam) – examples are two 6-inch and one 9-inch green oasis cones. If you buy the pointed ones cut off about ¾” to make a flat area before you decoupage them.
• Wrapping paper – your choice of design and color
• 1-inch circle paper punch
• Two ¾-inch wood balls
• One 1-inch wood ball
• 1 yard of silver plastic strung beads – or other color of your choice
• ½ yard of decorative white trim
• Hot glue gun – or Aleene’s Clear Gel Tacky Glue for the kid-friendly version
• Ceramcoat Metallic Silver acrylic paint
• Paint brush
• Mod Podge Decoupage Medium
• Iridescent white glitter
• Blue (or color of your choice) glitter – optional for the trim
• Elmer’s Glue-All – optional

Come back Monday for the directions.

Tags: kids craft, holiday craft, snow day craft project, décor crafts, Christmas tree mantlepiece, craft ideas, craft tutorial, winter-theme craft

Artist Profile – Vicki Holdwick

2009-12-10T05:00:00.002-06:00

[Continued from yesterday .]

Is there a tool or material that you can't imagine living without?

Word Girl

Photoshop, Perfect Paper Adhesive, Pitt Art Pens.

What inspires you to create?

The challenge to go beyond where I ever thought I could in my personal development. I think I have always been a person who loves a challenge. When I went to college in my mid-30s I chose to major in math and science because I knew they would be difficult and I wouldn't be tempted to goof off.

Sing

I've always wished I could draw and remember quite well when my children would ask me to draw for them. The most vivid memory is of a day they asked me to draw a cow. I took a piece of paper and drew an animal with a head, a tail and four legs. They were happy and went on their way. A few minutes later they returned and asked me to draw them a horse. I drew an animal with a head, four legs, a tail and a mane. They both looked at me with the strangest look on their faces and said in unison, "That's not a horse, that’s a cow."

What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?

Art Rage

Push away the voice that tells you that you are not an artist, that you are not good enough. Find pleasure in what you do and do it for yourself. If it makes you happy, that is all that matters.

What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?

Reading and working crossword puzzles.

See more of Vicki’s work and get to know her better at Faint Heart Art.

Tags: artist profile, mixed media artist Vicki Holdwick, Photoshop art, word art, collage art, art training, creative process, digital art

Artist Profile – Vicki Holdwick

2009-12-09T05:00:00.003-06:00

Domino Art

An Artist’s Life

I’d like to introduce you to my friend, mixed media artist Vicki Holdwick. Take a few moments to peek into the world of another crafter/artist. I think you’ll find some ideas to help you grow in your art.

How do you describe your work?

Payton

Eclectic and expanding.

I actually began as a photographer and made personalized accordion books for several people. I then turned to digital scrapbooking and that is when I became enamored with Photoshop. I am trying to improve my drawing skills so I do a lot of sketching. But I also love collage, both digital and hands on. I'm playing with encaustics and have tried my hand at bookbinding.

The most difficult part is that I want to do it all and can't seem to find the time. I was certain that when I retired I would have so much time, but instead I find I don't know how I ever had time to go to work!

What is your creative process like?

I find that I get my best ideas from the oddest and most unlikely places and jot them down because I am involved in something else. Then when I have time to look over my notes and gather my supplies the fun begins. The results are frequently very different than what I set out to do. I have been known to get so involved that, if someone else is not around, the entire day goes by and I haven't even noticed.

Two Birds

Unfortunately, I find that sometimes I am so taken by an idea that I jump right into it without even thinking about what else is going on. I have ruined some favorite clothes that way!

What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?

I haven't had any formal training in art. I read voraciously and am pretty good at learning by reading. I have watched a zillion Photoshop videos and taught myself to use CS3 pretty efficiently. I take full advantage of the library and have read lots of books on collage, painting, drawing, stamping, and gaining confidence.

By far the best thing that has happened to me to help me achieve my current level of artistry and push me toward improving is the wonderful art community online. So many people have been so generous with their suggestions and positive input. They've given me the confidence to block out the negative voice inside me that tells me that I am not creative and to grow artistically.

I have also met several Internet friends in person and they have included me in their artistic endeavors and have become essential support to me when the negative voice inside my head gets too loud.

More inspiration from mixed media artist Vicki Holdwick tomorrow.

Tags: artist profile, mixed media artist Vicki Holdwick, Photoshop art, word art, collage art, art training, creative process, digital art

Live Christmas Tree Place Card Holder

2009-12-08T05:00:00.003-06:00

These Christmas tree place card holders are very quick to make – which is good since the live evergreen branches will start to droop after a few days. Have everything else ready to go ahead of time. Then finish up a day or two before the holiday party.

Or use small artificial trees you can buy just about anywhere during the Christmas season and make a version you can use over and over again.

If the dinner is after dark, the guests will be delighted by the glowing stars atop their personal Christmas trees.

Each live tree place card holder requires :
• 6 to 7-inch sprig of live evergreen – make sure it is a stiff variety of evergreen which will support the place card and star topper;
• Tea light candle;
• 1 ½-inch glow-in-the-dark star – the type sold to glue onto the ceiling (as for a child’s bedroom);
• 1 ¼-inch split ring key holder – I got mine at the kiosk where I get keys made;
• 3 ½ x 1 ¼-inch cardstock or heavy paper place card with a guest’s name written on it – I used handmade paper which has green threads and dried ferns pressed into the paper; and
• Hot glue gun

Instructions:

Remove wick from tea light. Doesn’t the wax look just like new fallen snow?

If you are using live evergreens, save the wicks. When you remove the evergreen sprigs after the holiday dinner, you can replace the wicks and still use the tea lights as candles.

Insert the evergreen sprig into the hole left by the wick. You may have to enlarge it a bit.

Optional: remove the sprig; put a gob of hot glue into the hole and reinsert sprig for stability. The glue cools so quickly, it doesn’t have time to melt the wax.

Use hot glue to attach split ring to back of star. Add more hot glue to back and attach star cardholder to treetop.

Insert place card and set your holiday table.

Tags: Christmas crafts, Christmas trees, ribbon angels, craft ideas, holiday crafts, Christmas place card holder, Christmas table decorations, craft tutorial

Ribbon Angel How-To

2009-12-07T05:00:00.007-06:00

I am trying to find a pattern for an angel, using the ribbon with wire along both sides. The ribbons were not hanging freely, but folded in a way that made the gown/body and arms/wings. Can you please help me?

Martha

=============================================

Hi Martha,

OMGosh, could you be talking about the angels in my Ribbon Angel Tutorial?

If so, I would be extremely flattered. If not, I’ll see if I can help more. Please provide further details. What is different about the angels you are seeking?

Regards,
Eileen

=============================================

I really can't elaborate on the angels, they appeared to be shaped by "pinching" the wire-sided ribbon. I am assuming that they were glued to hold them together. I was able to determine that taking a length of ribbon, attaching it to the waist area, then shaping it, formed the gown.

At least, thank you for replying to inquiry. I make and send ornaments to my grandson, who lives in Kansas (I live in PA) every Christmas. Being 73 years old, I know that my days of crocheting the ornaments are running out, and I am trying to locate new and different patterns to use.

Martha

=============================================

Hi Martha,

Sorry my ribbon angels aren’t quite what you had in mind. Perhaps one of my other readers can help.

In the meantime, see if any of these would work.

• Fringe Angel
• Wired "Ribbon Candy" Ornament
• Wired Ribbon Poinsettia Ornament
• Iridescent Bead-Filled Ornament
• Hand Painted Ornaments
• Tassel Christmas Ornament
• Snowflake Christmas Ornament

Eileen

Tags: Christmas crafts, Christmas angels, ribbon angels, craft ideas, holiday crafts, Christmas ornaments, ribbon crafts, craft tutorial

Artsy Bloggers Roundup

2009-12-06T05:00:00.003-06:00

Holiday Décor Crafts
The Artful Crafter
A bead spinner is not required, but certainly recommended, to make a beautiful seed bead Christmas tree like this one created by Shaaron.

The Impatient Crafter
Madge is feeling Retrofabulous this holiday season! Check out this vintage inspired mixed media jewelry project idea.

Craftside - A Behind-the-Scenes Peek at a Crafty World
The 19 Days of Holiday Goodness Giveaways is in full swing. While you're there check out how to make a ribbon-wrapped mirror wreath.

Farm Girl Roots, City Girl Style
Linda built a house--a gingerbread house, that is! Check out photos and learn more about this party concept that's taking Chicago by storm.

Holiday Paper Crafts
About Family Crafts
Check out these creative gift wrapping ideas. You simply cannot give someone a fabulous homemade gift using ordinary, store-bought wrapping paper. You can easily and quickly personalize the wrap as well as the gift.

Aileen's Musings
Looking for Christmas card ideas? Aileen shares her idea using a Starbucks coffee sleeve and challenges you ...

Fabric Crafts
Mixed Media Artist
One of Cyndi's readers shared a fabulous craft idea using her own custom-printed fabric. Learn how you can design and print your own original fabric too.

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
Stefanie shows how to make a reindeer antler headband from recycled sweaters. Yes, antler singular, as in Max from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

Craft Business
Crafty Princess Diaries
A light tent can make all the difference when photographing your crafts.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, Christmas craft ideas, craft business tips, beading projects, craft tutorials, fabric crafts, holiday decor, craft ideas, holiday paper crafts

Saturday Craft Link Love Swap

2009-12-05T05:00:00.002-06:00

::: Craft ::: Link ::: Love :::

Arts & Crafts Examiner
Do you need some holiday gift ideas for your favorite crafty kid?

Creative Dreamer
Ramblings on patience, car repair, and some cute holiday house ornaments.

Gadabout Media DIY
Use glass beads and wire to make a charming little snowman charm bracelet or pendant.

Hankering for Yarn
One of Noreen's fave Christmas traditions is to make little comfort bears for the women's shelter or other charities. This year, she designed little bears to be made on the vintage Mattel knitter (or other crank machines).

Hankering for Yarn Part 2
And, here is the link to the second half of the Amigurumi Teddy Bear tutorial.

Jewelry & Beading
Cyndi is sharing a series of Gift Guides for handmade jewelry lovers!

The Artful Crafter
Whatever the holiday, make cute pop-up place cards to organize the dinner table and delight guests of all ages.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, fiber crafts, weaving, craft ideas, craft magazine

Seed Beaded Christmas Tree: Decorating the Tree

2009-12-04T05:00:00.003-06:00

[You’ll find the list of supplies and photo of the completed seed bead Christmas tree in Monday’s post.]

Glue a star or angel on the top of the tree.

While the tree is still sitting in a vase start to decorate the tree. Add the ornaments where desired and then close each hook you created with round nose pliers. Add the garland in the same manner placing the hooks you created where needed and then going back and completely closing each one so the garland will always stay in place.

Insert the tree trunk through the hole in the skirt and then down into the lid of the box. Run more glue around the tree trunk under the tree skirt. Gather the thread in the center of the skirt until it just fits around the trunk. Run the needle through the fabric, knot and cut off. Push the skirt down and secure in the glue around the trunk. The skirt will now have a ruffled look to it.

Add whatever you would like under the tree. Tiny toys, boxes and gift bags found in the doll house section of any craft store or make some items with clay and then paint them

Tags: tabletop Christmas tree, seed bead Christmas tree, spinning seed beads, handmade Christmas tree, seed bead spinner, beading, craft ideas, Christmas craft project

Seed Beaded Christmas Tree: Assembling the Tree

2009-12-03T05:00:00.002-06:00

[You’ll find the list of supplies and photo of the completed seed bead Christmas tree in Monday’s post.]

Wrap each 11” piece of wire with the floral tape stretching it and over lapping the tape as you go down the wire. Then group all three wires together and tightly wrap them all together. This is now the trunk of the tree.

Starting at the top of the trunk, place the first branch for Layer 1 and wrap twice with floral tape to hold it in place. Continue adding branches around, wrapping as you go.

Leave a ¼-inch space between Layers 1, 2, 3 and 4. Leave ⅜ inch between layers 4 and 5; and ½ inch between all remaining layers.

To create fullness and a natural look at the base of the tree, the final layers alternate. That is, attach the first 10A branch of 15 loops, then the first 10B branch of 17 loops. Continue with the second 10A and second 10B branches; then the third and fourth. Follow the same pattern with layers 11A and 11B.

Rest the seed beaded tree upright in a heavy glass or flower vase. Perhaps you need a rest now too, before proceeding to make the mini ornaments ;-).

Instructions for the Tree Decorations

To make the ornaments, place a larger bead or two on a head pin. Cut the pin leaving approximately ⅝ inch for the hook. Make a small hook with round nose pliers. Leave it open enough to place on the tree later. Make up as many ornaments as you wish and set aside.

To make the garland, use a fine needle and thread; knot one end and string on approximately 200 seed beads. Run a stitch up through the last bead twice and knot off. Place a drop of Fray Check on each knot at both ends.

To make hangers for the garland, place one head pin through the bottom of the last bead on each end. Form an open loop in both. Measure out the garland and use eye pins to form intermediate hangers. Slightly open each eye loop and hook that end onto the string between the beads spacing them out along the garland. Close the eye loops.

Leave approximately ⅝ inch of wire for the hooks as you did for the ornaments. Make a hook in each tail, leaving it slightly open for attaching.

Tomorrow: decorating the tree.

Tags: tabletop Christmas tree, seed bead Christmas tree, spinning seed beads, handmade Christmas tree, seed bead spinner, beading, craft ideas, Christmas craft project

Seed Beaded Christmas Tree: Beading the Tree

2009-12-02T05:00:00.003-06:00

[You’ll find the list of supplies and photo of the completed seed bead Christmas tree in Monday’s post.]

A branch consists of a length of wire with seed beads formed into a series of loops. Below is the approximate length of wire needed for each branch and the inches of beads needed to complete that branch. The tree is assembled in layers of branches. In the list below you will see the number of branches needed for each layer.

Note: I found it easier to make a tiny, tight loop at the far end of each length of wire and string the required inches of beads needed for each branch using a Darice Bead Spinner but you can place the beads in a bowl and just scoop the beads onto the wire. Count out to the open end of wire the required number of beads to make the first loop. Then count out the number of beads needed between each loop and then make the next loop.

After you’ve done a couple of branches, it goes much faster.

Instructions for Each Branch:

For each branch, a loop consists of 16 beads with 6 beads between every loop. After you have loaded on enough beads to complete each branch, count out 16 beads leaving a 2-inch tail of wire for the stem. Form the first loop. Count out 6 beads and then another 16 and make the next loop leaving the 6 beads between the loops. Do this until you have made the correct number of loops and spaces needed for each branch. Leave another 2-inch tail at the end and cut the initial tight loop off the end.

Twist the two stems together to form one.

Holding the very top loop on each branch and holding the stem in the other hand, twist the branch until all the spaces are wrapped around each other forming a tight branch. Arrange the loops to resemble a tree branch.

Wrap each stem with the floral tape starting as close to the beads as possible. Bend each stem at a right angle to each branch for attaching to the trunk of the tree later.

When the first layer of branches is done, place its branches in a baggie and mark the layer number on the bag.

Continue in this manner until all the layers of branches are done.

Tomorrow: assembling the tree.

Tags: tabletop Christmas tree, seed bead Christmas tree, spinning seed beads, handmade Christmas tree, seed bead spinner, beading, craft ideas, Christmas craft project

Seed Beaded Christmas Tree: the Tree’s Box Base

2009-12-01T05:00:00.003-06:00

[You’ll find the list of supplies and photo of the completed seed bead Christmas tree in yesterday’s post.]

Instructions for the Box:

Seal the outside of the box and lid with the All Purpose Sealer.

Paint two coat of white paint on the outside of the box and two coats of red on the outside of the lid.

Tear out, don’t cut, the angel images to be decoupaged to the box sides. Decoupage the images around the sides of the box. I added some clouds in blue and white around the angels. When dry, add another layer of Mod Podge all around the box.

Using the stylus or a toothpick, make small white dots along the side edges of the lid. When this is completely dry, add two coats of Mod Podge to the lid.

Make a hole in the very center of the lid with an awl or Phillips head screwdriver. The hole should only be about 4mm in size.

Cut out a circle of white felt by tracing around the bottom of the box onto the felt. Glue the circle to the bottom of the box.

Cut out another circle of white felt in the same manner but this time cut random scallops around the outer edges. Fold in half and then into quarters to find the center. Cut a small hole where the trunk will be inserted. Glue scalloped felt circle onto the lid of the box, making sure to center it.

Cut the clay block to fit inside the box.

You may need to add some additional clay to the top; so use what you have cut off to glue more on top as shown with the E6000 glue. The clay should now be slightly higher than the top of the box so the lid will not go completely down but just enough to cover the side rim.

Add some glue to the inside edges of the lid and around the hole inside the lid. Set the lid on top and add a book on top to keep it in place while the glue dries.

Note: By keeping the lid a little higher, it will give more depth for the tree trunk making it more secure.

Set aside to dry over night.

Cut a circle out of the Christmas-design fabric in the same manner as above. Run a small amount of Fray Check around the cut edge. Hand stitch or glue the trim around the outer edge of the skirt. Find the middle of the circle and cut a 1-inch hole. Apply Fray Check around the cut edge of the hole. Use double thread and a needle, to sew a running stitch around the hole about ¼-inch from the cut edge. Leave the thread and needle in place until time to place around the trunk and tie off.

Tomorrow: beading the tree.

Tags: tabletop Christmas tree, seed bead Christmas tree, spinning seed beads, handmade Christmas tree, seed bead spinner, beading, craft ideas, Christmas craft project

Seed Beaded Christmas Tree

2009-11-30T05:00:00.003-06:00

If you’re a beader and haven’t yet tried the Darice Bead Spinner, let me tell you, this is one cool tool! If you’re not a beader yet, this seed bead spinner may just entice you into the fold.

This work of art will be treasured and handed down for generations to come.

Supplies for the Box:

• 1 – 4 or 6-inch diameter papier-mâché box – example has a 6-inch diameter
• Delta Ceramcoat All-Purpose Sealer
• Paint brush
• Delta Ceramcoat Acrylic Paint in white, red & sky blue
• Stylus or toothpick
• E6000 Industrial Strength Craft Adhesive
• 1 pound EZ Shape Non-Hardening Modeling Clay (any color)
• Small angel images to decoupage on box – print multiple clip art images or use angels from wrapping paper
• Mod Podge decoupage medium
• 2 – 6-inch white felt circles
• 1 – 6-inch Christmas-design fabric circle
• Needle and thread to match the fabric
• 20 inches of gold decorative trim for the tree skirt
• Awl or Phillips head screwdriver
• Dritz Fray Check

Supplies for the Tree:

• Darice Bead Spinner – optional but really speeds up the project
• 5 Hanks of #11 dark green seed beads
• 3 – 11-inch lengths of 16-gauge wire
• 60 yards of 24-gauge copper coated wire in green
• 11 small plastic baggies
• Floral tape in dark green
• Various colors of decorative glass beads up to 5mm size
• 20-30 Head pins for the ornaments
• Small plastic star or angel for tree topper – example has a ¾-inch glittered star
• Approximately 200 #9 or 10 seed beads in various colors
• 10 Eye pins and 2 head pins for the garland
• Small wire cutters
• Round nose pliers

Gather up your supplies and come back tomorrow when we’ll begin creating our little tree.

Tags: tabletop Christmas tree, seed bead Christmas tree, spinning seed beads, handmade Christmas tree, seed bead spinner, beading, craft ideas, Christmas craft project

Artsy Bloggers Roundup

2009-11-29T05:00:00.002-06:00

Holidays Abound: Thanksgiving Retrospective
and Christmas in the Works

About Family Crafts
Does your family have any creative Thanksgiving traditions? Read about other's Thanksgiving traditions and share your own.

Craftside - A Behind-the-Scenes Peek at a Crafty World
Craftside's got yummy pumpkin cookie and biscuit recipes, an inside peek into Bead Quilled Jewelry, eco friendly recipes for casein glue and an all-purpose cleaner, and starting Monday- The 19 Days of Holiday Goodness Giveaways starts, answer each day's question and you are entered to win a free book every day!

The Artful Crafter
Whatever the holiday, make cute pop-up place cards to organize the dinner table and delight guests of all ages.

The Impatient Crafter
Madge is ready for Christmas. Check out the retro-licious frame she designed for iLoveToCreate.

Cross Stitch at About.com
The 2009 Holiday Ornament Collection is ready! Whip up some super quick back stitch ornies or cross stitch some more colorful ones.

Fiber and Bead Crafts

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy is making her first crocheted hat for herself. Now, hopefully it will be done by the time it gets cold down south.

Farm Girl Roots, City Girl Style
Don't fence her in! Linda shares the story of her Fences and Ferns Quilt and how creativity can prosper even in dark times.

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
See a necklace and bracelet made from the same Blue Moon Beads pendant and watch the how-to video by Stefanie.

The Crafting Life

Aileen's Musings
Aileen invites you to join a creative challenge with her so-called Erosion Bundle Project. Take a peek at her pictures and find out exactly what erosion bundles are!

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, Halloween craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, fiber crafts, crochet, craft ideas, craft books

2009-11-28T05:00:00.005-06:00

::: Craft ::: Link ::: Love :::

A Creative Dream
Toys for strangers to love...

Arts & Crafts Examiner
Do you need a gift idea for the favorite crafty person on your list? Here are a few fun ideas for your holiday shopping.

Gadabout Media DIY
Win a set of thirteen great rubber stamps and ink pads from Ford Cares & Martha Stewart Omnimedia!

Hankering for Yarn
Noreen's been making fun Christmas ornaments. Here's the link for a tutorial on how to make a tiny 'Bog Coat' from origami tree. Perhaps Santa's Elves would appreciate a new coat or two?

Mixed Media Artist
Mixed media artist Nicolette Anderson shares her lovely work.

The Artful Crafter
Make some romantic mood light candles with decorative tissue paper and decoupage medium.

Tags: art blogs, craft blogs, craft ideas, craft inspiration, patterns, craft tutorials, fiber crafts, weaving, craft ideas, craft magazine