janiegirlcrafts

No rest for the weary...

2012-01-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

Once again this month I bring another Purple story. I'm still not sure anyone is actually reads my little rants, this month about purple, Oh well. Here goes nothing...

So far your are aware that Purple has now entered my color pallette and that I have already learned so much about my business and myself this year. Well, I have to admit a few new items poped into existance during the past few weeks that are sticking around as well. They just happen to be purple.

I have been approached by a few mothers who are holding birthday parties at venues with high ceilings. They have been interested in ordering mobiles but have no place to hang them, so here is my answer! Paper Lantern Flower Bouquets with coordinating Chair and Table Decorations.

Bright, Fun, and Whimsical Paper Lantern Flower Bouquets and Table decorations are great for any nursery, birthday party or special someone. These bouquets are a great addition to children's birthday party. If you have a venue with high ceilings these arrangements are a great way to add color, height, and whimsy without the need to hang. Spruce up the head table with one or two arrangements and add intant color. Bonus, give away each "flower" to a guest and they can use it like a wand or place it in a glass at home to remember the occasion. Use the ball jar for leftover candy or keepsakes from the party. Another mother was looking for a way to designate the head table, so adding a simple lantern in the birthday girls favorite color to the back of the chairs was a great response.

So I finally posted these additional items and so far the response is slight but positive. It was funny the day I posted these items my husband came home from work, opened the door, took one look at the dinning room table and said, "Photoshoot?" I guess he's beginning to understand, sometime I have to take a little bit of time and set up a shot. But sometimes Max wakes us an hour early and I still need time to clean up.

Ain't learning grand?

Where Was I?

2012-01-21T15:03:00.000-05:00

h yeah! Purple. Well, I'll get to the purple...

This new year is bringing many surprises and lots of work. I have been giving some friends a hand by watching the little ones a few days a week. I have never been so tired; oh and I forgot to mention Max and I where sick the beginning of the week. So we took a brief break from the shop and the blogging world in order to spend time playing and healing.

Now that the coughs are gone and the weather is turning colder for some reason this color purple has walked through my door, plopped down on the table, and has decided to stay. Purple has invaded the mobiles: and it looks like its here to stay. I have started trying to include a few process photos. Remembering to take pictures in the middle of a project should be easier.

I tried setting up the tripod by the desk to remind and have everything "Instantly set up". That plan bombed. I guess I like to spread out while I work, I found that the tripod was really just in the way.

I've really tried to keep in mind my process this year. I have the type of personality that likes everything in it's place and I actually operate better when I allow myself a little bit of "set up time". I lay everything out, all the parts and tools. I even made myself a jig a few months back to expedite my process a bit. Then before I know it, my project is boxed up and ready for it's trip to the post office.

My office is always a disaster area when I've finished a project. I find that if I take the extra 15 minutes I take at the end of the project the easier it is to start the next one. Sometimes circumstances, like Max or dinner, don't allow that time and I find myself playing catch up the next order that comes in.

So far, paper lantern mobiles are by far the most popular item in the shop. This month I have sold seven different mobiles, ranging from a lighted paper lantern mobile, pictured, to a simple set of set of replacement lanterns for a mobile sold a year ago. This year has been busier than I could have imagined. I'm not complaining, just realizing it's time to bring my A Game, kick the sniffles in the butt, and get down to business in business and real life.

If i find that I get an extra 15 minutes at the end of the project after clean up, I'll post a little bit more about what I've learned from that project.

I can't wait to see what bit of learning the next purple project in January will bring. Oh yes, this month is now officially dedicated to the color purple. Don't worry, there's only 10 more days in January, there can't be too much more... can there?

The Color Purple

2012-01-04T14:47:00.001-05:00

Not the movie, funny. I find that so far this week all of my projects have involved the color purple. Plum, wisteria, violet, lavender, lilac, heliotrope, whatever the shade I think I have touched it. I guess the new year is pointing me in a new color direction. Truth be told I have never been a fan of purple, I'm not sure why, but that was another blog post...

Maybe this little shot of additional color is a push to be inspired like it did my previous post. I have noticed that I have been neglecting the blogoshpere and my attitude towards it. Looking back on past blogs I noticed a few trends.

1. I doubled the number of blogs I post per year, every year, since my first year blogging in 2009.

2. I have been using this blog to share completed orders and projects, and the odd cupcake or cookie photo. However nothing I have shared has truly been inspiring or truly part of my life or myself.

3. I was not entertained, educated, or truly inspired by any photo, project or post written on this blog.

As someone guilty of posting without really trying I would like to take a minute to say..."ooops!"

So I, like many other people posting "stuff" on the interweb at the beginning of the year, call them resolutions if you like, I am trying something new.

This year I hope to bring tutorials, process photos, and true stories about my projects and the little bit of imagination I am trying to share with this world. At least this can be a place I find my imagination and have the chance to share it. Everyone loves show and tell, but this time I would like to start telling and not just showing. So instead of cramming all of the projects I have been working on this week into one post I plan to share them all one by one. A highlight of items is no longer needed, no longer an afterthought, a true idea. So here goes... I hope someone listens.

My first touch of purple this week is brought to you by Wisteria:

A few days ago I was contacted on Ravelry, a knitting community, about selling some of my stashed yarn... A first for me.

I love to use Ravelry, its a great place to keep track of your yarn online. I can store all of my yarn's information, how much it cost, where I bought it, dye lot, color, and amounts. Knitters tend to call this stock of yarn a 'stash'. Yes, yarn can be like crack for some.

Well I was approached by a very nice lady who started a hat and scarf and wanted to add a set of mittens and ran out of yarn. She was able to enter in the name and dye lot/color information and found me. I was lucky enough to pick this up at Webs last April. I have used this wisteria colored yarn on cupcake hats and plan a toddler sweater at some point. I was happy to share with a fellow knitter, good karma helps the world go round. right?

So this little skein is wrapped up and ready to ship at the end of the week with the rest of my orders. Check back for the next color purple and process photos... lantern mobiles!

new year, new start

2012-01-01T20:50:00.000-05:00

Time for telling stories and a little bit more from and about the storyteller.

First the Story:

First off: My husband calls me the ex-workaholic, I like to call myself a multitask-er.So in 2011 when I became a stay at home mom I jumped head first into my new role as wife, mother, and homemaker. Then when my son was about 3 months old and we were beginning to settle into a rhythm, a friend noticed I had made a few cupcake hats for my nieces. This is where the real story begins. My first customer, my first order, and the Etsy store was open.

I was tasked with two hats, soon I received another order and then another. I found I had made half a dozen cupcake hat designs and was starting to enjoy myself and I wondered what else I had to offer. I started to think about the time it takes to knit a hat, even an infant hat, at least a couple of hours. How would I find the time to create an inventory based solely around knitting. It just didn't seem like a good plan, so I headed back to the drawing board.

I had received several compliments on the design of my sons nursery so I started adding what I made for him. Low and behold my most popular item soon became my paper lantern mobiles.

The first 6 months were incredibly slow, but then again I had Max to keep me busy. I sat for a few months with only a handful of items available on Etsy Mostly anything I had been asked to make by a friend or family. So I faced myself with a challenge. My goal would be: Listing 50 items on Etsy, Build an inventory. I worked slowly on adding items, and spending time with my family. However one or two orders a month didn't seem to add up to too much. So the shop went on the back burner and I spent time traveling with my family and preparing to move to a new town. Then August Hit: 8 orders in one month, I thought it was a fluke. But no, somehow my store was receiving traffic. I still haven't figured out which source did it, or where I was featured, but I was and there has been no looking back.

By far my busiest time was leading up to Halloween. I decided to List the costumes I had made for Max, and see what happened. I had the best time and was so inspired by custom order requests that I came up with several new designs and a passion for 2012 season. Soon I had time to straighten out my receipts and make patterns for all of the costumes I had made. I learned on the spot about making tutu skirts, fairy wings, and hats. After a lot of reading, test runs, late hours, and massive failures I finally perfected a few new skills. I made enough during Halloween to afford a few fancy child sized manequins and a small but useful serger.

I found that the seasons didn't really stop, they just rolled over each other. I skipped Thanksgiving completely and found that December kept me busy with custom sacks. I did take some time to learn a little bit more about how Etsy operates. My small but loving family decided our Christmas would be completely handmade or homemade and I am proud to say that we did 90% of our shopping through the Etsy Website. I experienced first hand how other shops communicated, shipped, and dealt with customer service. Each transaction gave me insight into how I wanted to grow to operate my business. I have taken notes and made lists. I want to strive to put out quality items that inspire the world. Or at least a few happy thoughts.

So to sum up my year: my shop has received 15,571 overall views, it has been favorited 842 times, I sold 70 total items, participated in 3 giveaway/reviews, and enjoyed every minute. I look forward to what the new year brings. Hopefully I will finally build up an inventory and you will see me at one of the local crafts shows. I have plans for new features to the blog, but thats a story for another time.

Here's to 2012!

It's all about the bag!

2011-12-25T21:02:00.000-05:00

This year was all about the bag... or in my case the Santa sack. I had so much fun with these sacks. I even made my son's first Santa sack. A few years ago I started making small flannel sacks instead of wrapping our presents. My family just loved them, each year I find new fun fabrics and create new bags for each member of my family. I had thought that I would get them back the following year. This has not happened. My sister in law confided in me that she gives them as gifts to her friends, she loves them so much. So I guess I will continue making these bags next year. In fact I will feature all of these bags in my shop next year. Take a peak at all of the custom orders from this year! Be sure to order yours next year!

From all of mine to you and yours. Merry Christmas!

Winner! My Memories Software Giveaway!

2011-12-16T12:54:00.000-05:00

Congratulations Jes Mack!

You are the winner of the My Memories Free Software Giveaway!

Please email me as janie@janiegirlcrafts.com for download instructions!

Thanks everyone, Check back soon for exciting Christmas Crafts!

My Memories Suite Giveaway!

2011-12-02T22:41:00.006-05:00

Everyone knows I love making things for my family and that I also love taking pictures of everything.

However, I hate srapbooking. I've tried, my son's baby book is currently in a box, incomplete, he's 15 months old. I love the idea of scrapbooking. I go to the store, I buy a book and fun paper, I print out all of the super cute pictures. Then nothing. All I end up accomplishing is making a huge mess and having to clean up so I can make dinner.

Well, I have found the answer to my scrapbooking nightmares. No mess, no clean up, and no need to stress out. I can create and walk away! I also have great news for one lucky reader!

Award winning scrapbook software creators My Memories have offered one lucky reader a FREE My Memories Suite Package! My Memories Suite is rated #1 by amazon and TopTen Reviews for digital scrapbooking software and a $40 value. Also as janiegirlcrafts followers you have your very own Share the Memories code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Just enter STMMS4155 (case sensitive) at checkout!

I wanted to take a minute and share the little album I started for my family. This year we are having a "Homemade Christmas", this album will fit in perfectly. I also plan to create our Holiday Card with this software, so keep an eye out.

I was amazed at how easy this software is to operate. It uses the same shortcut commands as other software, such as Microsoft Word. For example I am accustomed to using [CTRL Z] to undo the last action. Guess what, I didn't have to retrain my brain, everything was second nature. This software even offers autocorrect for those sloppy typers, like myself.

Check out one of their video tutorials for Free!

Now down to business:
In order to enter the giveaway you must first follow this blog: janiegirlcrafts

Then go ahead and check out My Memories Website and choose your favorite digital paper pack or layout, then comment on my blog telling you which ones you love.
For extra entries to the contest feel free to comment, like, tweet, or follow any of the My Memories links below.

Post a comment on this blog for each additional entry.

Blog- http://blog.mymemories.com/

Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/pages/MyMemories/140359372717593

Twitter- http://twitter.com/#!/mymemoriessuite

Contest winner will be selected
December 16, 2011

Good Luck!

Starting a new Tradition!

2011-12-01T13:49:00.001-05:00

The week or so before Thanksgiving I was asked to make a custom Christmas Bag for a little girl. Her mother had seen my Reversible Santa Sack on Etsy, and wanted to make something special for her little one. After discussing fabric styles and sharing a few examples we decided on a style and I started sewing. I finished up yesterday and loved it so much, and have enough fabric leftover, that I have decided to add them to my shop selection this year. If you are interested in this or a similar item, check out the info on this Christmas Bag!

I think I will make Max his very own bag as well, one bag filled with all of his toys. I think these are great addition to our family's Holiday traditions. Oh and as a bonus to me, I won't have to pick up a bunch or wrapping paper this year.
Maybe I'll make one for Charlie as well?

A cute little girl in cute little skirts!

2011-11-28T18:32:00.000-05:00

I just had to share these pictures! What a cutie! This past week I traveled home for the holidays. I think the highlight of my trip was chasing my niece Lizzy around with a camera. She was a perfect model for some of the Christmas skirts now available at janiegirlcrafts. Speaking of Skirts... make sure you check back on December 6 a special treat on this years skirt selections.

What ever happened to Thanksgiving?

2011-11-09T16:52:00.001-05:00

I am usually that person who is first to comment on the Arrival of Seasonal Christmas items before Halloween. Well I am not that bad; I did however skip Thanksgiving!

I have been hit with inspiration, funny how it happens. Maybe it was all the mid day viewings of The Nightmare Before Christmas while sewing Halloween Costumes.

I am so excited to announce Christmas Items are now available in my shop.

I think the items I am most excited about feature this Candy Cane Fabric. So, Monday I ran out of fleece after making some new hats, so I ran out to the store and found the striped candy cane fabric and I had the idea to make a twirly skirt. I've never really made skirts before, since I have a boy. I guess I tried to make a tutu skirt for my niece Lila, it isn't so much a tutu as a ballet wrap. I didn't even think about gathering last time. I'm not sure why these skirts became so important. I guess I was ready to learn something new, and run with it. I had the idea of little girls going out to sing Christmas Carols or Sit on Santa's lap.

I love the movie All I Want for Christmas. For anyone not familiar with the movie is stars a little Thora Birch, she is such a lady, I envision this as she walks to Macy's to see Santa in her Patton leather shoes. Well, I absolutely love this selection. That paired with Santa's Little Helper Costume, with Matching Santa Sack.

I love using our Santa Sack. We travel from Connecticut to Maine to Iowa every Christmas and I always end up misplacing a present. A few years ago I discovered a ripstop Santa sack for a dollar. It was great! It didn't last very long. So I had the idea, so last year as I wrapped presents I threw them into the appropriate Families sack and no need to remember so I forgot about them. When it was time to leave, we threw the sack in the backseat and drove away. It's going to be fun this year, now that the kids in the family are a bit older, having the Santa Sack Magically appear under the tree on Christmas Morning. Just like Santa left it for them.

So, I started with a drop waist Red Tutu, that turned into a Santa Costume. Then I had the urge to make an Elf Costume. So I made this reversible green with White polka dot wrap skirt, with Tulle/ Cotton.

I still have a few ideas, but it's time to move onto filling some orders. I have a lot of knitting ahead of me this season. Let's just say I'm getting behind. Oh well, I love these projects and I'm pretty sure my nieces will be getting one or two skirts for Christmas this year.

Don't worry about Max, he'll have plenty of presents, however the urge to throw a skirt on him to take pictures on a live body is huge. Well, I'll see my nieces in the next few weeks so updated photos coming soon!

Check Back!

Halloween Re-Hash

2011-11-03T20:14:00.000-04:00

So, If you hadn't guessed Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. Today I took down the last of the decorations. We hosted a small get together on Halloween. I didn't get pictures of the entire set up, but I thought I would share some fun things I found.
Lets start with the Tricks! Decorations!

I had a lot of fun with some old ideas! I made a Happy Halloween Banner, similar to the one I made for my son's first birthday, it was so quick and easy. Then i found a few sheets of black construction paper and cut bats of all different sizes. I just taped them all over, the different sizes had the perfect effect. I hung one of my Balloon Mobiles in the corner, it blended in well with the hanging fans i found at the party store when I was looking for a witches hat for my costume.

My favorite decorations where these pre-printed adhesive stickers I found. These were so simple, I had some Ball jars that I use for storing applesauce and jams during the winter. Paired with some bottles from the recycling bin and I had perfect and easy decorations. Another of my favorites is straight from my childhood. I purchased dumdums as treats, and just like my first grade teacher taught me, I rapped them in tissue and drew faces. Add some ribbon and ghosties flew thought the air.

Now it's time for treats!

Growing up my mom went all out for Halloween! Why would my house be different. We had selections of toys and candy, I'm a bit of a traditionalists, so Hershey's bars and Reese's Peanut butter cups were paired with bags of Domino's and playdoh. It was so fun to see kids trying to pick what they wanted!

I even had a few extra toys for the kids at the party, however I think some of the dads had more fun with these goodies.

No party would be complete without cupcakes. This year I took all the glop from the pumpkins and turned them into Pumpkin Cupcakes, paired with No-Bake Spiderweb cheesecakes. The party was a success.

I can't wait till next year!

Speaking of Firsts!

2011-10-26T10:58:00.001-04:00

All of the success from my paper lantern mobiles is all in thanks to my son, for inspiration.

When I was about 8 months pregnant the nesting bug hit me hard. I wanted to make this safe little spot for my little boy. I ordered a few paper lanterns and cables and threw together a lantern mobile. There were some glitches, but it was unique, just like my little guy. After a couple of months visitors would stop by and comment on my mobile. When I said I had made it, their ears perked up. It just so happens a friend of mine was expecting her own little boy. So I made a custom mobile in just the right colors to match her nursery. Low and behold I threw some pictures up on Etsy. I had just started a store front selling knit cupcake hats. Well, 3 months later I had my first mobile order, not to a friend, a complete stranger!

I decided to make up some new designs and add some colors, and the orders kept rolling in. I now offer a variety of designs, colors, and options, ie lit or non-lit. I am currently participating in my first lantern mobile giveaway and I have several new designs to reveal in the next few months.

All thanks to Max and his first bedroom: This room became my sanctuary, we played and laughed, and he started to grow up.

Well, as many know, my family just moved, and Max got a new room. I had so much fun finding ways to use his old things, and a few new ones. It came time to hang his mobile over the chair and I realized it wasn't as nice as the mobiles I have been making for others. So I remade it. I ordered some new parts and did some tweaking. It looks similar, but is so much better. Max likes it too. We sit in his chair and read our books, and sometimes I look down to see him just staring at the glowing lights.

This new item is now available in my shop.

Lighted Double Paper Lantern Mobile

Thank you Max. I love you!

Firsts!

2011-10-26T10:38:00.000-04:00

This week I am celebrating! I am participating in my very first GIVEAWAY! CLick on the link to check it out! The more you enter the better your chances to win your very own Custom Mobile!

A Few Of My Favorite Things Lantern Giveaway!

The experience has been fantastic so far! I never imagined my little lantern mobiles would be so popular!

With Halloween around the corner I have been working on lots of new ideas for next year, and a few for November!

Check back soon!

I just had to share! it's been a busy week!

2011-10-22T21:32:00.000-04:00

Finishing up my last costume orders for Halloween, 2011.

Today I finished this little number. I never realized how fun little girl costumes are. I will feature Tinkerbell, also available in a variety of fairy colors, next year along with Little Red Riding Hood. I have a few more ideas, but those will stay a surprise... until next year!

One more Pumpkin this week. Oh and this is so cute, I made two little ghost costumes for twins this week. I couldn't be happier with my original designs this year. They actually fared better than expected!

There was a little bit of the regular thrown in this week. Both orders show a new take on some old ideas.

First, I made my signature Lighted Paper Lantern Mobile only in a Mini Size! This turned out so cute, and about 1/3 smaller than the original.

The second order was such a delight. I made 2 matching mobiles for twin birthday parties! The new spin is using large colored center lanterns instead of the standard white. I think this is such fun. I never would have guessed, when I made Max a lantern mobile for his nursery that they would become so popular.

I really have so much fun with these mobiles. You would think doing the same design over and over would get boring. So not true. Every time I get an order it is filled with new hope, love and not to mention color! I get a glimpse of a little ones new environment. Sometimes I am lucky and get sneak peaks at bedding and decor.

I am excited to announce that you can now get my standard Paper Lantern Mobile with a colored center lantern. Check out my shop for all available colors! http://www.etsy.com/listing/82241869/paper-lantern-mobiles

Make sure you check back soon for more exciting news, and new designs in November!

Continuing the costume parade!

2011-10-20T10:29:00.000-04:00

I can't even express how amazing the last few weeks have been! I have been walking though a Halloween Wonderland. I have fallen down the rabbit hole and don't really want to come out.

After finishing up Corduroy, the Big Bad Wolf, and a small Pumpkin Patch I kept the costumes coming. Last week I was lucky enough to make 3 ghosts, 2 skeletons, the Itsy Bitsy Spider, and 1 Dalmation puppy.

Each story was unique, just like each costume.

Two little girls will be skeletons this year, both about 2 years old, neither of them seem to be big fans of skirts, so this costume was the perfect choice for them. This costume is made out of Anti-Pill Fleece with felt applicques. It si warm and cozy. The mother actually joked about making them for adults. Maybe Next Year!

The Itsy Bitsy Spider may have been my favorite this week. Itsy Bitsy will be another of my featured costumes next year, also available with a black and white spiderweb tutu skirt! This little spider was paired with his older brother who wanted to be a friendly ghost. How adorable for a 3 year old, and of course he chose his little brothers spider costume.

This little Dalmation costume was so much fun! I played with my pattern for my standard pullover style costume. By adding a simple velcro color I was able to make this super cute collar, which I think is perfect for this little guy. I recieved a message from a mother who's 3 year old wanted to be a fireman, so she figured the new baby could be his dalmation. I think this is too cute. I was actually approached by a few people about making more of these little buddies.

This is too much fun! 11 Days until Halloween! What are you planning to be?

Check back soon for more tricks and treats!

It's time to start the Costume Parade!

2011-10-11T08:57:00.000-04:00

This month has been very exciting, and it's only the 11th! After moving, getting settled in, and finding time to get back into any kind of rhythm. I now find myself in my new shop, working as fast as I can! So after a brief absence from blogging, I think I am back, with lots of goodies to share!

September 26th I started sewing, and sewing, and sewing... lets fast forward to now. Today is October 11. To date I have made 5 Pumpkin costumes, 1 Corduroy the Bear, and One Big Bad Wolf. I have had the time of my life. I never imagined I would have so many orders last month when I posted my 3 little costumes. To my surprise I have been asked to make cute custom costumes as well as all three of my listed costumes, and the orders keep coming. It looks like I've hit the ball rolling, and so far I haven't fallen off.

Some of the custom requests will be added to my inventory for next year. So far my favorite has been the Big Bad Wolf! I received a request from a woman who's 3 yr old daughter is going to be Little Red Riding Hood and her 6 month old son is the Big Bad Wolf. I think this is the most adorable pairing. Next year I will be featuring this costume along with a Little Red Riding Hood Costume. I just love them!

I have a few more surprises up my sleeves in the next two weeks. As Halloween is fast approaching, many more things are in line to be created!

I hope you check back soon!

Small delay...

2011-09-09T13:01:00.000-04:00

As some of you know my family and I packed up the house, including my shop, last week in anticipation of moving to our new house. Everything started out fine on Friday, then the unexpected happened. Hours after selling our house and minutes after starting the final inspection on the new house, the furnace started to smoke. Needless to say we did not close on our new house. For a list of everything that went wrong see my sister blog at: www.janiegirlramblings.blogspot.com

Fast forward to today, the furnace has been fixed and we plan to sign papers and start moving in on Monday. If all goes well I should be able to stick with my schedule and start working on orders by next weekend. I will keep everyone informed as best I can.

I just want to jump back into my orders, as they keep rolling in. Hopefully I won't get too far behind. I guess I can look forward to being busy for the next few weeks. Everyone knows how much I love staying busy.

Bonus to not moving in this weekend: My family and I are experiencing all of the festivals we weren't planning to attend this weekend.

More to come!

Birthday Party Success!

2011-09-05T14:58:00.001-04:00

Many of you know that my son turned 1 last week. I can't believe time has gone by so fast. I had a lot of fun making a whimsical environment for his 1st birthday. I call Max my little Monster, he's the most lovable monster you could ever meet, and he's mine. Since this might be the only time I get to plan his birthday party, I chose a Monsters theme.

I started projects a few weeks ago while filling orders, what a great way to stay inspired and motivated. Fill an order and make a party favor, such fun!

First: Invitations

Since Max was turning one I chose to make one eyeball invitations. Just as if a monster with one eye were looking at you, the theme continued as you will see.

Second: Give Aways

We used these little guys as giveaway items, since most of the guests where babies we thought these where a great idea. Everyone got to pick their own and everyone enjoyed them. Notice they only have one eye! Another set is available on my Etsy Shop!

Third: Tablecloth and Banner

I figured if I made one banner and tablecloth I could use them over and over again. I kept them light and simple, just using three colors which I can reuse for future parties.

Fourth: Cupcake Toppers

Everyone knows I'm a little obsessed with Cupcakes. I had never made a topper before. So, I took smaller versions of the eyeballs I made for the invitations and made them into cupcake toppers. Funny side note: I was walking thru Michael's yesterday and found similar items for sale for Halloween. I paired them with some blue polka dot liners from Michael's and they tied everything together. The pairing of the yellow and white polka dots on the table cloth was a funny coincidence. I had asked my husband to pick up blue liners and these where what he found!

Fifth: Food, Food, Food!

It was so fun to think of food for kids and adults. Ages ranged from 6months to 50+ and I thing everyone had their fill. Everything served is a staple in the Alexander Family, lets just say there weren't very many leftovers.

We used kiddie spoons and forks, it was fun to see adults using crayola spoons, everyone giggled at them.

Food was safe enough for toddlers and filling enough for adults. For tips I've included my food ideas below.

Here's the menu:

Drinks:

Iced Tea, Juice Boxes, Milk Boxes

Sandwiches: without the crusts

Peanut Butter

Cucumber and Cheddar

Sides:

Mac N Cheese

Hummus

Yogurt

Goldfish

Fruit Salad

Mashups

Dessert:

Jello

Blueberry Nutragrain Bars

Monster Cookies

Lemon Cupcakes

H.A.L.L.O.W.E.E.N. Spells Halloween!

2011-08-27T15:00:00.000-04:00

I find that inspiration comes in the most unlikely places. The pure mention of Halloween sends me into a tizzy. It might just be my favorite holiday, next to Christmas that is. Walking though the grocery store this week made me start thinking about ghouls, ghosts, fun, and childhood.

This year Max will be one and we will have our first Trick or Treat in the new neighborhood. Last year I made Max his very first costume, this Pumpkin Costume. Let's just say it was way too big for my 2 month old son. Well it fits just fine now, with the addition of a new, bigger, hat, click here for original post Max's First Halloween. Well, yesterday I made a new hat and then I just kept on going. I had some leftover white fleece from a project about a year ago. I just so happened to be channeling my ghoulish self. So much that I made this new Ghost Costume.

Keeping with the the theme of Halloween. Last week I started making a few new items. Those cute Monsters from the last blog, well I was making toys and I just kept on going. Let's just say they were a huge hit with Max, who is teething like a banshee these days. He was rotating between chewing, shaking(they are rattles), and kicking them. When I took them away to photograph them he was not too happy about it. They were soon returned with a new trick or treat bag to hold them all together. I have a feeling these are going to go everywhere with us over the next 2 months.

Well, I guess if we are working backwards today I should end with this item. Last week's orders wiped me out of certain lantern colors, so I had to order more. So I took a chance and ordered Black. Not a usual choice for me, but I think it looks amazing in this Halloween Inspired Balloon Mobile. All items listed in this blog post are available at my ETSY shop. Click any link to start shopping.

Have I mentioned I love Halloween? See you soon! Pleasant Nightmares....

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-08-26T21:19:00.001-04:00

The ball is still rolling... and rolling... and rolling...

I was lucky enough to have two more custom orders this week! The first one was a lot of fun, designing a mobile set for a 1st grade class. I worked with the teacher to create this one of a kind set. She redesigned her room this year using a new theme, Dots on Turquoise, I was inspired by this new source and I love the idea that smiling faces will see this mobile everyday. I hope it brings some imagination and whimsy to their day.

While working on this design I had to rework my Paper Lantern Mobile. She requested an odd set of lanterns on each mobile and she really liked the birch mount that I use. I started working on a few new ideas and then I had the brainstorm. The new Mini Paper Lantern Mobile has the same charm and ease as the original, just a new outlook.

My second order was a custom gift set for a new baby girl. The woman who ordered mentioned this was for a "grandma party". Apparently a woman at her office became a grandmother and everyone threw her a party for the essentials every grandma needs at their house. I'd never heard of this before, how fun. She picked out the polka dot fabric from my stock and said she wanted a blanket, burp cloth and wrist rattle. It's fun to mix and match new fabrics. Her coworker had a granddaughter, but the client wanted to keep thing gender neutral in case of more grandchildren. I love using blues for girls designs, I find as long as I keep the pattern organic and free flowing it looks feminine and tough at the same time.

Then it was time for a little fun. Felt Monster Toy Set I've been thinking about these monsters for a long time. Ever since I made my first toy, a large stuffed octopus. Dot came next, then a few rattles and such. This project has been in my head for as long as I have wanted to make items for kids. I decided Max should have a Monster Mash birthday party this year. He's turning one, he's my monster, and who knows if I'll ever get to pick another theme again. So I'm running with it. We will be celebrating next weekend, pictures of all of the festivities to come soon, well pictures of all the goodies anyway. Thanks for stopping in.

Check back soon. Halloween may be coming early to janiegirlcrafts.

What a day!

2011-08-19T19:59:00.000-04:00

Some people may be aware that I was recently offered a part time job out of the house. This morning I decided not to take this job and work from home instead.

I came to my decision last night and decided to sleep on it one more night and respond this morning. As I was about to respond to the offer I received an order for a Custom Paper Lantern Balloon Mobile.

I jumped up and down with excitement, the order needed to be filled and mailed today. A rush job. Before starting I sent a response to my would be boss, in which he replied, "Bummer". Then seconds later I received a second order Custom Lighted Paper Lantern Mobile.

It was like I had been sent an invisible letter saying, "If you respond to 7 people within the next 24 hours fortune will smile upon you."

Fortune smiled upon me today and I wanted to share with you. Speaking of sharing here are my two new items.

Oh yeah, I was supposed to have something on my needles to share today. Well, that's something that is still on my list. My life almost changed this week; well I guess it kind of did. I made the decision to stay at home with Max, and make my dreams. I hope you like them.

Where did last week go?

2011-08-16T13:56:00.004-04:00

Before I knew it, today was Tuesday. I try to post a new blog every Friday, looks like I missed last week. Things have been busy around here. We have an offer on our house and an offer in on the next. If everything keeps moving it looks like we will be moving September 16th!

Here's the short of it:

Last week consisted of house hunting, inspections, cooking, cleaning, packing, playing with Max, and spending summer time with my currently at home husband.

And I made a quilt!

Etsy Link for Custom Quilt Order

A friend and former student of my husband's placed and order with me last week. There is a new addition to her family and she and her father decided to order a personalized infant quilt.

Apparently they really enjoyed two blankets I made for my son, Max. We worked together and came up with their special blanket. I really like it! If it looks a little familiar that is probably because some of the fabric was used in my first quilt ever!

I still have the handmade quilt my paternal grandmother made for me. Sadly I have already packed it, so I am unable to share it at the moment. Almost 30 years later, I still love it. Once we get into the new house I will unpack and find it all over again. Since I had never made a quilt before I used my grandmothers quilt as a guide, that and some useful Internet sites. I must also say proudly that I used my maternal grandmother's sewing machine to make Max's quilt. I still have the machine too, I still use it for special projects or going thru a tough pair of denim.

The other blanket which inspired my friend was the simple knit blanket I made for Max after he was born, free pattern. We used the vibrancy and pallet of this blanket combined with the pattern of the first. Overall I was very happy with this project and I really enjoyed making a quilt again.

Now, on to Knitting... All of the windows in the house are open, the rain has stopped and I sense the leaves about to change. September is almost here... Hat Weather!

Check back at the end of the week to see what ends up on my needles!

Hooray for New Ideas!

2011-08-05T19:16:00.000-04:00

Paper Lantern Balloon Mobiles

Today I worked on a new mobile design. I really like it. I've been thinking about this design for awhile now. I made something similar when I was first working with lanterns about two years ago. Mobiles like this one are available for custom order through my store. Click on the link listed above the picture for this listing. Or shop my store for more items from janiegirlcrafts. My husband is off for the next 3 weeks. So besides packing, I should have some time to start a few new projects before the big move. Check back next week to see what I come up with.

New Lantern Colors Available!

2011-08-02T13:51:00.001-04:00

Since I have had over 2200 hits on my Lighted Paper Lantern Mobiles in the past week I was inspired to add a few new colors!

janiegirlcrafts now features 16 colors!

White
Chocolate Brown

Ivory

Grey

Violet

Plum

Yellow

Orange
Pink
Pale Pink
Chartreuse
Grass Green

Spring Green

Teal

Turquoise

Robin Egg

This weekend was quite wonderful. For those people who don't know my house has been on the market for the past few months. This weekend we excepted an offer. We plan to move during September. I will keep everyone posted in case the shop closes for that time.

I also had a few custom item orders to fill this weekend. A lovely Chartreuse and Chocolate Brown Light Paper Lantern and a Little Boy Gift Set.

While I was busy working on all of the new lantern colors I was inspired to make a few new mobiles to go with the Baby Bird Sets I have on my ETSY Page.

Check them out!

Baby Bird Essential Set

Robin Egg and Turquoise Mobile

Check back later for more exciting news and new listings!

Pink Gift Sets Now Available!

2011-07-29T13:47:00.000-04:00

Hot Pink & Polka Dot Sets!
I had so much fun last week making new Pink Lantern Mobiles that I was inspired to make some matching Gift Sets.
The Set Pictured here is the Hot Pink & Polka Dot Essential Set listed on my ETSY Page.
Set Includes:

4-14”x20” 3 Ply Tri-fold Cotton Burp Cloths

1-14”x26” Cotton & Fleece Changing Pad

1-30”x30” Cotton & Fleece Travel Blanket

1-30”x36” Cotton & Flannel Receiving Blanket

1-6” Cotton, Flannel, & Ribbon Tag Blanket

1-Infant Wrist Rattle

Stop by next week to see what inspires me next!

PS. I just got a new inventory of lanters in: Including New Colors!

1805 Views!

2011-07-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

Yesterday morning when I checked my shop I noticed that one of my items, Lighted Paper Lantern Mobiles, had 633 views. This morning when I checked my shop it had 1805!

In one night I hit several major goals:

1. One of my items hit 1000+ views
2. One of my items got 1000+ hits in 24 hours
3. 20 new people, who are not friends or relatives, favorited my shop
4. 45+ new people favorted this and other items

I am one lucky girl. Thank you for checking me out, I hope you like what you see!

The House with the Purple Doors

2011-07-20T19:17:00.001-04:00

Did you know that sometimes inspiration can come from the simplest thing. I spent the last week visiting my mother in law. She is a delightful and very bright woman who spends her summer in the House with the Purple Doors. Upon our arrival my mother in law decided that the doors looked a little sad and needed some work. I jumped at the chance to do a little house painting. After a few hours scrapping and a few coats of paint she had 3 beautiful, bright and cheery doors again. I got so involved in the house work that I painted her hallway wall Blue as well.

Once my tasks were over I couldn't stop thinking of the Purple Doors and how sweet and caring they looked. I have never been a fan of Purple, I rarely use it, or wear it for that matter. I found myself thinking of these purple doors and so I decided to knit a hat. I thought that Cupcakes are sweet and that pairing them with some Violets might just work. I have also started 2 more hats that have flower motifs. Photos coming soon.

Oh, and lets just say that I found a purple yarn that looks like it jumped off my mother in laws door and landed on a hat! Hooray for inspiration!

Hats and patterns available this fall. Check back, or check out: http://www.janiegirlcrafts.etsy.com/

Back in Business!

2011-07-07T10:02:00.000-04:00

This last week marked the end of the Arts & Ideas Festival and the Start of Summer Vacation. This week started with a bang! In one day I made a 4 layer cake filled with jam and frosting; closely followed by 3 hours in the studio. Have I mentioned that I have a wonderful husband... who likes cake.

My niece Lila turns 2 in just a few days and I decided she needed a fun play skirt. I started with 2 colors of tulle, light and dark pink then I added the ribbons. I made it adjustable so she can wear it for years to come. I have to say for my first attempt it turned out as well as I expected. It was a surprisingly quick and enjoyable project. I'm thinking of adding something like this to my website...

Moving on to... Babies!

About a month ago my cousin her second little boy, so I made him a tag blanket. Every little boy needs monsters to love.

Speaking of Babies... A Friend of mine is expecting a second little girl any day now. Her daughter just turned 3 and they were wonderful when I had Max. So this new little girl will get her very own brand new unused burp cloths.

This week my family and I have traveled to Maine to visit family. This week we are at "Camp", no Internet, unless I can get a bar on my phone here and there. Today we decided to run some errands and stop at the http://www.mainegrind.com/. This is quite an awesome place. I get to sit in a wonderful sitting room, listening to great music, with my laptop and a Mixed Berry Smoothie while Charlie and Max run an errand.

This weekend we have a birthday party then we travel to Islesboro, a small island off the coast near Camden. I think a trip or two to the community center will be in order so I can use their WiFi to share the little things I'll make over the next few days to come.

My hands are working fast on new items for my Etsy Page... more items coming soon. Don't forget to check the store this fall for a series of brand new items.

janiegirl, interrupted

2011-06-05T12:06:00.000-04:00

So, janiegirlcrafts is going on hold... I wish I was headed on an amazing vacation I could share with everyone. No Vacation here, just full time work ahead.

For the past four years I have worked for the International Festival of Arts & Ideas on the Green in downtown New Haven. There are free events on the Green, food tastings, tours, plays, productions and more. Check out the site:
http://www.artidea.org/

Unfortunately, this also means that I will be on the Green from 8am-10pm most days. I will have a few days off, to go to a wedding, but pretty much you can find me on the Green. I'm not really complaining, I get to hear lots of great music, work with great people, and still share art with the masses. Actually a lot more people will participate in the Festival than will check out this website.

After this post janiegirlcrafts is going on hold. Etsy Store and blog will reopen in July, so don't fret. This is not a goodbye, just a, I'll see you soon.

Oh, since I won't have the chance to bake for a while I made Lemon Cupcakes yesterday.

Stay Sweet while I'm away.

Well May has been busy

2011-05-26T10:51:00.001-04:00

I have been so busy this month that I haven't had a chance to share all of my projects this month. I had three Etsy Sales this month along with two orders from co-workers and 2 gifts. Life is getting busy here at janiegirlcrafts. I'm having a great time figureing out all these new projects. It's a challenge balancing working part time in an office, janiegirlcrafts, and my family.

Things will slow down next month as I jump into working outside the home for June. Make sure to check back!

I am my own Domain!

2011-05-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

I have entered a new world where I have no idea what I'm doing!

Thanks to a good friend who stopped by for lunch today I accepted a challenge. I will become better than I am and I will keep learning! Now to change everything I already know to include this information. It's kind of like re-inventing the wheel... Did you know that I jump into the deep end a lot of times, and I'm only 5'4" tall?

I am about to jump in without looking. Wish me luck, and I hope you join me. The water's fine.

Check me out!
http://www.janiegirlcrafts.com/

janie@janiegirlcrafts.com

Hello Summer!

2011-05-23T09:13:00.000-04:00

I changed the banner at my shop and on my blog in hopes the weather will change!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/janiegirlcrafts

Check back later this week for the new projects I've been working on!

It's a boy! Congrats!

2011-05-18T09:31:00.000-04:00

A woman my mother works with just had a little boy. This Burp Cloth Gift set with Matching Write Rattle was the perfect gift. My mother wanted a genter neutral set, even though she was certain her co-worker was having a boy. She ordered this 3 Burp Cloth Set and Matching Rattle at the end of last month and 2 weeks ago a little boy arrived. I hear mother and Son are doing well and the family is very happy.

Custom Orders Welcome! New listings coming soon!
email: janiegirlcrafts@gmail.com

Well Today was a Busy Day!

2011-04-20T21:25:00.000-04:00

Today was a lot of fun! I was inspired! Here's a quick look at Little Girl Gift Sets!

One Item coming soon to ETSY! Guess which one?

3 More Projects and 2 More Orders This Week

2011-04-19T21:00:00.005-04:00

I feel so accomplished, and it's only Tuesday! This weekend my wonderful husband took charge of baby Max along with the household chores which allowed me an afternoon in the Studio. A few weeks ago my mom requested two custom block sets. My mom has been looking for a set similar to the sets my brother and I had as children. She requested colorful 3" square foam blocks. She used to shove them into our diaper bags, I still have one.

Monday night my wonderful husband came home announcing the birth of a coworkers son. He politely asked if I could make a gift set for the newborn baby and parents. I had a great time whipping this set up. I've had the Monster fabric since before Max was born and have been waiting to use it. Unfortunately I have discovered that I am now out of yellow fabric. I also became aware that my favorite two support fabrics, the blue filigree and the green polka-dots have dried up. I only have a few small square pieces left. I wonder what I can use them for next? Any suggestions?
Gift sets coming to ETSY this Summer!

Easter is just around the corner and since I have been so busy making blocks for my niece and son, I figured I should make something for my other niece. She came for a visit in February and I whipped up this hat, all except the ears. She loved this hat and it was hard to get her to leave it. So yesterday I added the bunny ears and this morning I mailed it. I hope she loves it as much as she did before! Some of you might be thinking; Silly Janie, don't you know it's spring and we don't need hats anymore? Well my response is a girl always needs a hat... ad she lives in Maine!

This week I have had two orders for Gift Sets! Hooray for babies! One gender neutral set and one little girl set coming up. Coming to ETSY soon.

3 Burp Cloths = $24.00

2 Burp Cloths & 1 Receiving Blanket + $30.00

email janiegirlcrafts@gmail.com or request custom item at http://www.janiegirlcrafts.etsy.com/

I've been Busy!

2011-04-11T13:39:00.003-04:00

Boy oh Boy has janiegirlcrafts been busy this month! I can't believe it's been over a month since I last posted. Here's to playing catch up! It's funny, last month I was able to catch up with family. Max and I flew to Iowa. Then Charlie, Max and I drove to Florida. It was wonderful to catch up with family and get recharged for spring and orders!

My Mother commissioned these soft blocks for my Niece. They are 3"x3" and super chewable. My brother and I had a set when we were little. I think these are a great addition to an Easter basket.

Since Easter is coming up I decided to make these Egg Rattles. They are soft and squishy and great for little hands.

Lighted Paper Lantern Mobile

Alphabet Art

I was very excited to have two requests from some good friends. They decided to add Lighted Paper Lantern Mobiles and Alphabet Art to their little boy's room. I had some fabric left over from a quilt set I made for their baby shower. So Fun!

The Mobiles and Alphabet Art are Available on my ETSY site. Hopefully I'll get some more items up soon. Thanks for checking in! I just received another order for a Paper Lantern Mobile and I need to make another Block set... off I go!

I Can't Stop Baking!

2011-02-18T09:04:00.001-05:00

In honor of Family... Lila, Nell, and Abby are coming today! We get to experience Lila's first sleepover! TO Celebrate I made Raspberry filled Dark Chocolate Cupcakes! I had to play with frosting too! I need to get a Cupcake nail to help with my frosting... but I'm learning and loving it!

Frosting Fun

2011-02-17T08:36:00.001-05:00

My wonderful husband gave me a frosting kit for Valentine's Day. I decided to experiment; it was fun.

In Honor of Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T15:19:00.000-05:00

I made Yummy Raspberry Cupcakes!

Dot the Octopus, and Dot's Inspiration

2011-02-14T15:03:00.000-05:00

Meet Dot the Octopus... I know Dot only has 4 arms...

I had so much fun creating this cute toy. Dot is about 9"x9"x9" and made from Felt. I was inspired to create Dot after making a larger Kraken for a friends daughter. I wanted to make something for their daughter's first birthday. So I found a pattern for this cute Kraken.

Max loved the larger one so much at the party that I might have to make him his own Dot the Octopus on the larger scale. This was my first toy and I have to say it was so much fun that I am now developing a few more toy animal patterns... next I think I might tackle a dinosaur... after I make Max his own Big Dot.

My Labels Arrived!

2011-02-10T10:11:00.001-05:00

My Labels arrived this week! They are wonderful, and have already ended up on a few projects. Hopefully I'll have two new items listed on Etsy by the end of the weekend. I was sidetracked a little with Valentine's Day and Birthday presents, but I'm still working full speed ahead! Check back soon!

The Store is Open!

2011-02-02T16:05:00.001-05:00

http://janiegirlcrafts.etsy.com/

I have finally after months of trying to find the time, opened my ETSY store. I started with a few custom orders; thank you ladies!

I have two more hats in progress along with 2 quilts and Baby Sets to follow.

As Always Custom Orders Always Welcome!

I Love Making Baby Sets

2011-01-10T08:09:00.001-05:00

I had so much fun last week making a gift for a baby shower. Friends of ours are expecting their first child in just a few weeks and besides giving them whatever Max's outgrown, ie diapers, clothes, pacifiers etc, I decided to make them this little set.

The set Includes:

1- 30" x 36" cuddle quilt- cotton, flannel, chenille, and satin.

1- 30" x 36" oversized recieving Blanket

2- 12" x 18" Burp Cloths

I even had enough scrap left to make a tag blanket for the little one. Max just loves his; I like to make them out of high contrasting materials so that they have visual interest for the Little Ones. They also have a variety of textures, I have found that Max plays with his when we are in the car, it's a little treasure fro him to focus on.

I really love making these little sets. I think I have enough fabric to make 4-5 sets, hopefully I'll get started on those this week and I'll be abel to add them to my Etsy site.... COMING SOON.

I'm so excited!

So Much to Catch up with

2011-01-09T09:29:00.003-05:00

Now that Christmas is over I'm safe to finally share all of the wonderful things I made! I had such good fun this year. I am enjoying taking this time at home with Max; he is such an inspiration to me. This year for Christmas I made everyone a little something homemade. My Mother In Law calls them Happy Hands at Home. Here is just a taste of what I made: Knitting Projects will have posts to come including patterns:

Knitting Fun:

Make a Place...Mat:

Fun With Names:

Use of Scraps:

Knitting Max to Sleep

2010-12-22T16:55:00.001-05:00

This Christmas is different from every Christmas that has come before. This year I have Max. Max has filled me with such love and imagination I have found myself diving into projects and enjoying them more than I ever could have imagined.

One thing that I love more than anything is Knitting Max to Sleep. Max and I spend all day together and we have found a wondeful rhythm to life. Every three hours or so Max wants to Nap. Well, he gets fussy and I decide it's naptime. I wrap him in his nap blanketI a lovely gift from our friend KJ), give him a pacifier, and we sit down to knit in the nursery. After a few minutes Max settles down and watches my needles work, then before I finish a row he has usually fallen alseep. Sometimes I put him down, sometimes I am content to sit and knit while we rock for an hour. I find this my favorite time of the day. I love nap time and thanks to naptime I have finished all of my Christmas Knitting, and thrown in a few extra projects for fun.

Thank you Max.

While I'm at it, I can share this!

2010-12-16T10:22:00.000-05:00

Shortly after I found out we were having a little boy I started this blanket. It ended up on hold during the last few months of the pregnancy, due to my need to comlpete the nursery. I even took it to the hospital with me to work on while I was being Induced... Nada. I was lucky enough to stay with my Mother-In-Law for 2 weeks over Thanksgiving. I was able to finish 3 projects! I am pretty proud of this one; it's not meant to be perfect. However it is the perfect size for traveling, which we are doing plenty of so far this Winter.

Max's Blanket
Yarn: Stich Nation by Debbie Stoller
Colors: One Skein each of the Following:
2605 Honeycomb
2260 Clementine
2205 Little Lamb
2640 Thyme
2510 Auquamarine
Two Skeins of the Following:
2529 Mediteranian
Needles: Size 9 knitting
Finished Size: 30"x30"
Gauge:16st x 20=4"

Make 5 Squares Stockinette Stich each color: Honeycomb, Clementine, Thyme, Little Lamb, AuquaMarine

CO 16sts
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: Purl
repeat till 20 rows complete or 4" x 4" squares
BO

Whip Stitch Seams together
Color Pattern: Little Lamb, Thyme, Honeycomb, Aquamarine, Clementine.
repeat patter shifting 2 colors each row

Pick up 100 Sts on the sides of blanket with Mediteranian:
Seed Stitch (alternating rows K1,P1/P1,K1) repeat till 20 rows or until you have reached 4"
BO

Pick up 120 Sts on top and bottom of blanket with Mediteranian:
Seed Stitch (alternating rows K1,P1/P1,K1) repeat till 20 rows or until you have reached 4"
BO

This is my first pattern, please let me know if you notic anything wonkie. Thank you!

I just can't resist any longer!

2010-12-15T10:22:00.000-05:00

I'm in the middle of finishing my projects for Christmas. Somehow this week my list doubled. I'm just full of ideas this year, it is very refreshing. Well, I've now finished 6 out of 9 presents and the rest are in different states of completeness. But I can't share any of them; because someone who is getting a present might be kind enough to actually read this silly blog. But now I can share this: I have made bags this year, only using one roll of wrapping paper
for Specific Gifts. My grandmother has used bags for presents for as long as I can remember. I think it's a great way to reduce, reuse and recycle. Hooray!

Little loves for Little Hands

2010-12-03T21:33:00.001-05:00

I have come to the realization that Max likes to hold things... This is a good thing, he is working on his motor skills. He will grab hold of something and shake it... usually ending when he shakes the thing into his head. Currently his item of choice has been this rattle. He has found he can hold it and shake it to make lots of noise. I like this; it means I can leave him in his pack n play and go about my business cleaning, doing laundry, whatever needs done. However when I'm in the middle of a task inevitably I hear the vicious rattling then an abrupt stop followed by crying... Max has hit himself in the head again...

So I made these: Soft little rattles that he can shake all he wants. Today I was working on a project, I could hear the shaking, followed by nothing. When I went to check on Max he was smashing the soft moster into his cheek, happy as can be.

I had another idea for fingure puppets... so far they are pretty cute!

I'm in Love with this Woman!!!!

2010-12-03T20:40:00.000-05:00

My Mother in Law just introduced me to this wonderful book written by theis wonderful woman.
http://www.susanbanderson.blogspot.com/

I have started obsesing about knitting homemade toys for Max... Thanks to Miss Liz, who is also a wonderful woman made Max Dino!

On to new Adventures... I am currently working on a few items for Christmas then look out Max, your getting a Giraffe! It will probably be as big as you are now, but your getting one... good thing you can't read yet otherwise there would be no surprise!
Happy Knitting!

THE BABY BREAK IS OVER!

2010-11-04T18:02:00.000-04:00

As the rush of energy returns so do the ideas. I have been so busy making things already and I have so much more to share with the world. I have decided that I am going to start a home business making the wonderful items I have been complemented on since the birth of my son Max. I want to fill Max's world with color and imagination a Wonderland of sense; so far we are off to a running start.

His room aka the Nursery is a smashing success! I have recieved so many compliments that it gives me hope. I have also discovered now that my son is 2 months old that he has interest in the items hanging on the walls of his room. We sing the alphabet song to the alphabet, so they know who they are. We discuss that Fox is spelt F.O.X. and that Foxes are orange, etc. We have tummy time on his bright rug and someday I can see us racing cars along the shapes.

I am currently working on a bunch of small projects that I am thinking of selling on ETSY.com. I would love feedback on which items fulfill my goals of being: educational, imaginative, whimsical, and origional.

Everyonce in a while there will just be an image of a new item, I would love to hear your opinions and suggestions; of course I will take orders as well. If you have a loved one in need of anything I am taking custom orders as well.

Here's to Happy Hands at Home! Let the Wild Rumpus Begin!

Costume Parade

2010-11-01T17:39:00.001-04:00

THE GREAT PUMPKIN! Having a son has been amazing. This year I had a partner in crime celebrating andd setting up for Halloween this year. I got busy making Max's First Costume! I found the pumpkin hat for $1 at Joann's a few weeks back and decided that I could make a costume to match. I think it took about 4 hours. He wore it for about 1 hour, but it was worth it! He's only 2 months old but already growing out of 3month sizes. I made it a bit big so hopefully future kids will be able to wear it. I must say that it turned out Amazing and it gives me hope for my future Costume Making Abilities.

About a week ago my cousin's son Charles decided he wanted to be a donut... He's 12 and I couldn't dissapoint him.

Lizzie's First Projects

2010-11-01T14:15:00.001-04:00

I am a proud AUNT! I meant to put these pictures up Months ago, but then I found myself pregnant and lost all train of thought.

So I started out when I found some really bright fabric and mixed them all together to create a small quilt. It fits her crib and is backed in a soft flannel. I made all of this back in the spring, and gave them to her when she was born in May.

Using bits of fabric I trimmed out the edges of a few Burp Cloths (cloth diapers).

Rattle Mobile
Each of these little animals are little rattles. I have been told that Lizzie just loves looking at them over her changing table. I picked them to match the mural in her room (I painted last Christmas before she was born.) So combining the colors from her room with the colors her parents picked I out all of these things together and I hear they have all turned out to be a hit. A great starting point for more projects.

The Nursery!

2010-08-19T15:18:00.001-04:00

The Nursery is all but finished; I just need a baby and a name. We have gone thru a couple of revisions and I still plan to paint large 3D letters spelling his name, once we figure it out! We had a lot of fun with this room. I decided I would be spending a lot of time here and that I should make a room I was happy in. I made almost everything: bedding set, diaper storage bag, laundry bag, alphabet art by chair, lantern mobile by chair, and paintings over changing table. I can't believe in about a week this room will be occupied!

Mary Jane Smith made us this piece, she saw all of the monster fabric and UglyDolls and was inspired. I really love this piece; check out some of Mary Jane's artwork at: http://outofthewoodsdesigns.blogspot.com Then While out and about we found this wondeful drawing of Monsters! I guess you can tell we are planning for our own little monster.

More Nursery Fun!

2010-04-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

Today was a great day! We had an Ikea date! We went to look at some of the rugs and chairs to see if they have for the nursery. We ended up with some really nice items that are making the room wonderful. We found two amazing paintings/prints, they are perfect colors and exactly right. We actually went to Ikea to get the hanging toy bag, lamp shade, and a rug; we decided the rug wasn't quite right. I think we have done fairly well for working on the nursey for about a week. From paint to toys we have a great start. Charlie was great and put in a closet storage system to help, since the room is fairly small. It might seem like I'm going a little crazy at this point with the nursery, but work is going to get nuts in the next few weeks and I won't be able to play agian until July. At which point I will be 8-9 months pregnant and it will be hot out. More to come!

Nursery Update!

2010-04-26T22:23:00.001-04:00

I started this quilt a few months ago, before I knew we were having a boy, so I put it on hold. Well today I finished it! I finally just put it all together and finshed the back in a very soft flannel. I am very proud of this quilt. This is my very first quilt ever, and I think it turned out perfectly. So this afternoon I was on the phone with my mom and doing laundry and I had some leftover pieces so while I was on the phone I put together this bedskirt to match. I just have to make the curtains and I'll be all set!

I also got really great news today! The dresser came in to the store and was ready for pick up. Charlie was wonderful and picked up the 150lb dresser in the rain and brought it home. We put the dresser in the nursery and spent some time re-arranging. I'm sure we will move things round a few more times once we get everything together.

We did decide that we will be using the plane lamp as the nightlight in out little boys room. I think it is perfect!

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Monsters!

2010-04-13T20:06:00.000-04:00

This weekend I took a trip to the craft store with my girlfriends and I found MONSTER FABRIC! It is a really light and soft fleece covered with MONSTERS! I plan to make a sleeper and a carseat blanket for the little one. I got enought fabric I might make Charlie a pair of pajamas to match!

The next day we were out runnng some errands and we found Uglydolls. Charlie and I discussed which ones we liked best and ended up with all three. Once for the carseat, one for the pack n play, and one for the crib... and growing in size with our little boy. They will also go with the MONSTER blanket and sleeper. We are dorks!

The Nest

2010-04-08T11:54:00.000-04:00

I have been looking into Nursery themes now that we know we are going to have a little boy. I like this idea from the Nest and I just thought I'd try to link it to my blog. This is a really cute idea dn I have already started a baby blanket with birds on it. Maybe I'll try something like this? I have a couple of girlfriends coming to visit this weekend and maybe we'll take on the nursery?

HAPPY ZOMBIE JESUS DAY!

2010-04-04T21:56:00.001-04:00

Also known as Easter! Today was lovely, and mostly about food. We woke up this morning and I made us pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream. We then took out dog Asher out for a hike since it was so nice out today. After our walk I made some snacks: 3 kinds of cheese with 3 kinds of spread, hard boiled eggs, hard egg parts with pickles and crackers, watermelon, and shrimp with cocktail sauce. We had nice little picnick and then started working. I've been drafting for the past 9 hours. Since I was busy drafting Charlie made dinner: grilled salmon, potatos, green beans, and rolls. What a wonderful feast to celebrate. Then to top everything else Charlie made cake with jelly in the middle. Happy zombie Jesus day to one and all! I hope you day was as great as this. Even the drafting wasn't so bad, I just wish I was done.

Finding Time

2010-03-29T11:21:00.000-04:00

Whenever I feel as if my life is finally slowing down and becoming manageable I find that I loose control of everything. After finding out we were pregnant I decided to take things a little slower and enjoy the experience. I had decided I would work; I am currently designing three productions at a couple of local schools from now till June. Then maybe I would work a few weeks during June at a scaled back position at my last summer job. Then out of the blue I got a promotion. Now I will be designing 3 shows and working full/part time at my summer job thru July 23. That only gives me one month to get my systems in order and the nursery set up before the baby arrives on August 27. I'm sure I can handle everything and that it will be good for me to be active thru the entirety of my pregnancy. I just have to tell myself that I won't be working for awhile and that I should enjoy every minute of it before the baby is born.
So sadly thru the last month my crafting has slowed down and I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to get everything I wanted to get down for the baby accomplished. I have made my lists and I will stick to them. I have found that I have developed Pregnant Brain and I tend to forget of find difficulty in staying motivated or awake. But so far I am still able to work on little things here and there. My husband and I took a road trip to Florida last week to see family and I am pleased to say that I finally started my first baby sweater. Right now it looks like a bib or a cover to a turkey, but hopefully It will get finished before the baby arrives. However I won't need it until November, I pretty sure once the baby comes I won't have anytime to knit or enjoy it if I do. But here is my progress so far.

Back on Track!

2010-03-05T15:49:00.000-05:00

So I've been a little distracted recently. I am now 15 weeks pregnant and starting to feel like my old self again. I felt somewhat proud of myself a few weeks ago when I went to pick out fabric for the baby blanket I'm making. That's right, I failed to mention it was a blanket for my own baby! Charlie and I are expecting our first born of August 27th, 2010. I'm not sure if it will be a boy or a girl... YET! I get to find out in 5 weeks.
Needless to say I spent most of January staring into space. I had all the time in the world to knit and make things and I just couldn't lift a finger. I was in shock that I could be pregnant already. I had just gone off the pill; then suddenly I am a mom in training. I needed a small adjustment time. Now I'm finally feeling better and ready to take on this pregnancy with optimism and excitement! I'm starting to feel little flutters and strange new sensations. I have also decided I am going to make my very first sweater! For my very first Baby!

At least I'm going to start it, it sounds like the next 5 1/2 months wont be as low key as I had imagined, but work is work and I gotta take it! This is the Yarn I'm going to use! Since I don't know if it will be a boy or a girl I figure this would work for both! And then when we have more kids It will work again!

Here's the Picture from the pattern. I think it is very cute and will be an excellent for my very first sweater attempt! I think I might modify it a little bit though, who knows how it will turn out! I Also have a bunch of buttons left over from a couple of Christmas presents that will be super cute on the shoulders. And since I will be having the baby in August I will totally need size 3-6month sweaters for the winter months! Rock out! Now I just have to get started and find the time to get it done! I hope to make some booties and hats too, more to come!

Many Many Projects

2010-02-18T14:52:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of projects in progress right now! However I can't seem to get any of them finished. I am proud to day that I have several buckets of brand new yarn!
However, I don't really know what I will be making with all of this yarn! I have lots of great ideas, I'm just not quite sure where to start. Probably socks and baby gifts! I have started making lots of super cute baby items, maybe I will be a little bit more adventurous and make something super new and exciting.
Then I have decided that I am going to start making quilts! I have been inspired recently and I have decided to try my hand at making something special. There are several little ones in my life and I have decided that I would like to make one of them a quilt. I started this last weekend. Charlie went with me to help(carry) all of the fabric and to make sure I picked out pretty ones. I am very lucky to have a husband who likes my crafts! I was also lucky that I found this Bird patterned fabric as I was waiting at the cut table. I think it is perfect! I am going to cut out little pictures from the fabric and place them in a larger square of a brighter colored fabric.
I started with the back panel of the quilt, I think it has turned out beautifully! I found this bright floral paisley and I have to admit it changed the entire blanket! I had to change some of the fabric I had already picked out. I think I will add a blocked print name of the child, once I figure out who I will give it to.

Craft Room Update!

2010-01-28T19:41:00.001-05:00

This week I finally got my craft room re-organized and set up for use! I got facy new bins to hold all of my new yarn. I have almost used up all the buckets from the wedding, they hold all of my paints, scissors, etc. I feel like I can actually spend some quality time down there. Next month I plan to move a futon chair down to knit in. I can't wait! Even Asher likes it down here. I still have some work to do but I plan to spend a lot of time down here!

Everything finally has a place to live... now I actually have to have time to use everything!

Another Type of Project

2010-01-22T12:59:00.000-05:00

Over Christmas break I had the chance to see my family in Iowa. My younger brother and his wife are expecting their first child. A little girl they plan to name Elizabeth. While I was home they asked me to paint a mural on the walls of their nursery. They picked out the images and I spent about 8 hours putting it on the walls. It turned out fairly well, for my first mural. The important thing was that they were excited and said it was exactly what they wanted. Little Elizabeth is expected to enjoy her new room this coming May!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T17:09:00.001-05:00

This Christmas was very exciting; I made presents for my niece! My brother and his wife are expecting thier first, a little girl named Elizabeth this coming spring. I felt like being a super aunt and made hats, booties, and special onesies for her. It was really fun and went pretty fast. This was also great practice for our future!

Road Trip=Knitting Fun!

2009-12-24T18:58:00.000-05:00

So we took off from Naugatuck CT December 22, at 7:30am; and headed West towards Iowa. Originally we were going to leave today, we noticed that Iowa was due to receive some pretty bad weather so we took off early. About half way thru our drive we decided that things were going pretty smoothly and as long as the roads were good we would drive straight thru in order to stay ahead of the weather. Which we did, so I had plenty of time to finish my fingerless gloves. I work at a very drafty computer a few days a week and with the colder weather starting I figured having a pair would be helpful. This is my first knitting project I have ever made without a real pattern, besides a scarf or square. I think they turned out pretty well. My momo saw them and now I have to make her a pair.

Socks for Nancy

2009-12-17T13:24:00.001-05:00

My Mother in Law, Nancy gave me a sock pattern last Christmas. I finished my first pair of socks just in time for Thanksgiving; they turned out okay. Over Thanksgiving break I happened to go yarn shopping with Nancy and she found this Yarn and mentioned she like it. She put it down so I picked it up. I worked on these over 2 1/2 weeks, probably about 16 hours, much faster than my first pair. I figured that Nancy showed me how to make socks, my first official pair should be for her.

Sewing Travel Kit

2009-12-10T15:09:00.000-05:00

This is a traveling Sewing Kit I made for my Sister-in-Law Abby. A few years ago she noticed a travel kit I made for myself, she really like the idea so I made her one of her very own. I use these for single projects I happen to be working on. They unfold nicely to reveal the current project then fold back up into a compact case; I then throw the case into my purse or bag and take it with me.

I have one that I just made out of scraps I have started using it for Socks. I keep a tape measure, crochet hook and my #2 double point needles along with a small notebook and pattern. Once I finish one pair of socks I just throw in another ball of yarn and the next pair is started. So far it has been really great having everything in one place, I don't have to waste time looking for all the parts when I'm trying to head out the door in the morning.

This case above will fit: Large hoop ( or smaller), thread, scissors, thimbles and pattern. I even made a quilted backing for needles, I hate loosing mine. Now this one is finished it is time to drop it in the mail and make the next one.

This only took about 2 1/2 hours. I purchased a few of the quilters packs, they come with 4-5 12" squares of various cohesive colors. I cut sizes and shapes as needed and the whole thing gets ironed as I go. I wonder what the next one will be for?

Gobble! Gobble! Gobble!

2009-11-27T12:31:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Socks!

I finally finished my first pair of socks! Just in time for Thanksgiving; it also just so happens that they are the exact color of Thanksgiving. I named them my Thanksgiving AKA Turkey Day Socks!

I have taken a few days off from work. I feel almost feel like I'm ready to go back, however I wish someone would just pay me to knit all day long. Yesterday was wonderful, good food, great family, and a lot of down time. We went for a wonderful walk, a little over 4 miles, then ate way too much. I have traveled to Maine to spend time with my husband's famiy. We love it here and don't want to leave. Sadly we must head home tomorrow. At least I have time to start another pair of socks for the 8 hour car ride home. It helps to think positive.

Sophia Benetello

2009-11-27T12:26:00.000-05:00

Here is another set of Baby Gifts! One of my dearest friends is expecting her first, a little girl they are going to name Sophia Sara Benetello. She is exected to arrive in February. They will be having a baby shower in December and yesterday I made a hat, booties, and mittens for her. I have a few more projects to finish for her. Only one more baby left... my little brothers. We are supposed to find out what the sex is the beginning of December, so I haven't picked yarn yet. More pictures to follow.

Little Lila's Presents

2009-11-27T12:21:00.000-05:00

I have finished my first ever Knit Baby Gifts! I finished last week, but I have been so busy that it has taken me a few days to get them online. I have even wrapped them up with all of little Lila's other presents and dropped them off at the Daileys.
I must say I am proud of myself... now on to Little Sophia Benetello...

Knitting at Work

2009-11-10T16:27:00.000-05:00

I am at work today, like most Tuesdays. This afternoon has been busy but it has finally started to slow down. So I brought out my knitting; my handy dandy bag of tricks. I am working on a pair of booties to match that little white and pink hat for my niece Lila. Projects seem to go faster these days and I am finding I can change the pattern in the book to match what I want the end product to look like. I must say I'm very happy with my current project activity. I wish I could quit working and really start focusing on making cute little things for little ones, or big ones with a little more practice. A few days ago my husband said he was excited to get a homemade sweater, He's got a few more years till he gets one of those. I have made the trips to one of my favorite yarn stores on the planet, Knitting Central in Westport. They have great colors and everything you could need. I would like to find a little store of my own. Oh the time I would waste there.

The idea of doing what one wants to do is so fulfilling. The realization that I need to do what I can is the downer. Instead of going home to sit with my husband, eat dinner, and knit another baby booty I will be going to my second job tonight. I like both of my jobs, and wouldn't it be great if I only had to work one of them... But wouldn't it be better to get paid to do what I want? I real job to strive for?

Maybe when I grow up...

Little Lila's HAt

2009-11-06T17:23:00.000-05:00

This is a little hat I made for my niece Lila Dailey for Christmas. It is my first Pom-Pom as well. I'm really excited about Christmas this year, there are lots of little ones just born or about to be born and I am making all their gifts. I am proud of my self!

Let's start at the very beginning.

2009-11-06T12:55:00.000-05:00

Its a very good place to start.

I have just discovered that I TRULY LOVE to make things. I have always known that I liked to make things, I just never seemed to have the time. Over the past few years my life has changed and I have started to prioritize. My goal is to start doing things that make me happy first. Right know that is knitting and making cute gifts, and spending time with my husband. Then I design for a high school, but for now this is about what I like!

I hope someone someday follows me into this world, but for myself this is now the forum for me to share my projects with the world. I would love to hear any suggestions and criticisms, as long as they are constructive!

HUZZAH! Let's see what this world brings.