Latest Projects

I have a tendency to create LOTS of something when I come up with an idea.  This helps me with time management so I create an inventory as well as making the most out of whatever materials I've pulled out.  Such is the case when I decided to use up a bunch of fabric remnants I had been hoarding.

You might not think "flower pins" when you see a bunch of upholstery scraps, but it is what came to mind for me.  I used my Big Shot and the Fun Flowers die (which has been retired- the current Bouquet Bigz die would work well too) to cut out the flowers, layering on two pieces of fabric maximum and running it through the machine twice.  Beforehand, I went ahead and paired some coordinating or contrasting fabrics together so I had an interesting and visually appealing combination after these were cut out.

After cutting all my fabric pieces out, I pulled out the hot glue gun, buttons, pin backs, and lint roller.  Yes, you will WANT a lint roller.  All these pieces of fabric will have little bits of fray, which can make a mess.  For fabrics that want to fray badly, I brought out some clear nail polish (I keep a stash just for crafting) and lightly dabbed the edges.

I used 2 large, 2 medium, and 2 small pieces to construct each flower with a dab of hot glue in between each layer.  Also, make sure you are turning each flower piece on top of the next one at an angle so these don't lay perfectly on top of one another.  I do this by trying to make the petals of the top piece line up in the middle of the piece below it.

Before all the glue dries, I scrunch the pieces together.  So scientific sounding, huh?  By giving a little fluff, the pieces will look more full and will stay that way because the glue drying will help hold the shape.  It really makes a difference with your final project.

Last comes the pin back and the button in the center.  I love how these buttons look in the middle!  Oh, and give each flower one last flick to dislodge any bits of fraying materials before you package them.  Once finished, these are great for adding to a blazer, purse, or for a hair clip!

I ended up with over 100... do you think I have enough?!?

I also made a quick door sign for my new office this week (woohoo!) from a chalkboard I found at the dollar store.  I used a chalk marker to write on the front.  A stencil or free handing a sentiment works great and the marker makes it stand out!  I then painted the back with some black chalkboard paint and added another sentiment.  This way, I can flip the sign over depending on the situation.  I used some eye hooks and a little twine from the banner kit to finish my project.