1.       Pick a craft/activity that can be easily achieved

You never know what someone’s skill set is. Someone who has never sewn before may not feel comfortable making a quilt; maybe choose a “no sew” option. You want your party goers to feel successful, not frustrated.

Try my Clothespin Photo Display!

2.       Prepare your guests in advance for what they may need to bring especially if paint is involved.

In this case they needed to wear clothes they didn’t mind getting paint on and four photos. If you want to cut down on the cost ask everyone to bring a certain supply. Sample paints run as low as $3.

3.       Plan the cost of your craft.

At first I wanted to make Modern Jewelry Organizers but the cost of the knobs started to add up per person. Try making an activity with materials you may already have.

4.       Proper space.

If there are fumes to your project it may need to be held outdoors. Since I used an alternative paint without chemicals (milk paint) it wasn’t necessary, but my garage offered the most room for my guests. I also prepared in case any paint spilled.

5.       Pace yourself.

How long will your activity take? Are there natural breaks within it for food or socializing? Some suggestions:

·         Create your craft in the afternoon. Maybe personalized wine glasses or coasters. Then have dinner.

·         Start with wine and cheese. After everyone has loosened up a bit begin your activity and let the creative juices flow.

·         Brunch or casual lunch allows for breaks for seconds or thirds. I had my guests paint first and then eat while their first coat dried.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspirational Poetry Candles

There’s nothing quite like a candle burning to set the mood. Whether you use candles near the bathtub, when company’s coming, or after a long day at work.

I gave these favors at my Pinterest Party (check back for all the details!)

 

 

 

 

Focal Word Centerpiece

 

Check out this sweet wedding centerpiece.

 

My bride wanted flowers for her church and she decided on the verse: 1st Corinthians, 13:13- And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. We will be using "faith" "love" and "hope" as the focal words. I hand painted the letters but you can use a stencil just the same.

 

 

You can incorporate focal words in many ways:

 

1. Use the baby's name for baby shower centerpieces and reuse the boxes in the nursery or playroom.

 

2. Prepare your home for fall with the words “harvest” or “thanks”.

 

3. Make the holidays brighter by using your favorite tune “deck the halls” or “feliz navidad”.

 

 

 

Milk Paint Coffee Table

I’m continuing my exploration of milk paint. This week I tried a different brand.

 

The paint went on much more smooth than the milk paint you mix yourself. I did three coats and distressed lightly. The coverage was remarkable after three coats which made it hard to distress. But this table didn’t need much!

Before:

After:

 

 

 

56 (l) x 21(w) x 15 (h)

Status: Sold!

Antique Chest Reveal

Remember this chest? It so desperately needed a makeover.
 

 

 

 

I used an eco-friendly paint (milk paint) in a fun shade: AQUA!

All of the hardware is new.

A bit about milk paint if you’ve never heard of it:

 

 

"It’s also a environmentally friendly non toxic paint. Made from 100% organic material, milk paint is not only safe for the environment, it also protects our customers from the harmful fumes of non-organic paint." (http://www.realmilkpaint.com/paint/)

 

It smells a bit like milk and you have to mix the paint yourself but there are no harsh smells which will be helpful when my friends, who are expectant mothers, come to visit.

 

I see this piece in a child's bedroom, playroom, living room, or hall entry. Perfect for shoes, toys, or blankets. Could also be used for linens in a guest bedroom.

 

 

Status: For Sale, $50

Modern Jewlery Organizer

I so frequently find my necklaces tangled when I go to grab them in the morning before work.

My large jewelry armoire holds everything I own but I would really like to see my most used pieces on display.

This need inspired my Modern Jewelry Organizer.

Taking Orders now! Contact me here.

Antique Chest

Negative: Communication Errors

Positive: New Project!

 

 

 

I found this antique chest at a tag sale and knew it would fit all of my shoes. I was going to build slots for each pair to fit into and a cushion on top so I could sit and put my shoes on. I ran this fabulous idea by my husband and he said it’s a no go. He doesn’t think it fits the style of our bedroom.

So, it’s time to vote on my next project.

Should I

1.       Stain the chest a natural color to give it new life

2.       Distress the piece using an antique white hue

3.       Use a fun eco-friendly color

Voting ends tomorrow, Monday, September 7^th at 11:59 pm EST.