The Little Apple Seed

Hallway Fix-Up

2012-02-12T23:41:00.001-08:00

I have a small hallway off of my garage and I felt like it was a wasted space and not being used to its fullest advantage.

I found five really nice hooks at Goodwill for $3.99 each. Which is perfect, one for each of my kids! My husband put up a 1x6 board and attached my hooks to it. I added stenciled numbers above each hook.

It's going to be so nice to have a space to hang the kids jackets or backpacks. Anything that helps keep me organized, I love!

It's not a huge transformation, but it's a helpful one!

Upcycled t-shirt Dresses

2012-01-30T21:04:00.000-08:00

I have been working on some one of a kind upcycled knit dresses, they are so cute and comfortable. My daughter loves them. I'm hoping to get some up in my etsy shop soon, so stay tuned...

I have been pretty busy lately, with this little one...

Samantha is 2 1/2 months old. She's such a sweet baby, her 4 older sisters and brothers are in love with her. And so are her mommy and daddy :)

Getting Ready for Baby

2011-09-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a lot these past few weeks getting ready for our new little one to arrive. We have about 8 more weeks to go before she gets here. I have been wanting to make so many cute things for her but haven't had a lot of time for that. I finally sat down and made a few knitted baby hats for her. I love them and can't wait to put them on her tiny little head.

I first made the sock monkey hat and all my kids loved it and now want one. I made one for my 3 year old and now I have 3 more to go. I made a snowman with a bow to add a girly touch to it and a cute little cupcake. I'm having so much fun making them, I'm trying to come up with other ideas for more hats!

My next project is to knit a baby blanket, better get started soon!

Re-Purpose: 1 Dress into 7 Items

2011-07-31T23:33:00.000-07:00

I love finding new ways to re-purpose items, it's creative and affordable! Fabric can be costly at the craft stores so I found this dress at a thrift store and decided to use the fabric to make new items.

I turned one dress into 7 items. Not bad for $3.99

My daughter has a Hello Kitty sewing machine, (which by the way is a really nice starter machine. I have even used it when I didn't feel like dragging out my bigger machine.) I used part of the fabric to make a dust cover for her machine.

And on the back of cover I used the neckline of the dress where the buttons were to make a pocket for scissors or her sewing accessories.

I received an ipad for my birthday recently and wanted a cover but found them all to be too costly. I thought this would be a good opportunity to make one myself! I lined the cover in flannel for a soft non-scratching lining. I love it and it fits snuggly inside. Helps to keep it from getting scratched! I really like the lace embellishment. I have a tutorial coming up soon on how I made it.

I have been wanting a nursing cover to use for our new baby girl due in November and thought I could possibly make my own. I looked online and found some tutorials and got some ideas and came up with my own version. Everyone I have talked to seems to really like these covers, I don't remember seeing them when I had my other 4 babies. It was really easy to make and I saved myself some money :)

Next I made my daughter a skirt and embellished a t-shirt.

And a matching skirt and top for her doll. She loved matching her baby!

Oh, and a matching hair clip to complete her look!

I think it was a quite successful re-purpose!! It was so much fun coming up with ideas, I think my $3.99 stretched pretty far!!

And one more, just because I think shes so cute!!

I'm being Featured!!

2011-07-07T00:12:00.000-07:00

Today I am being featured over at Knock Off Decor!!! I love all of Beckie's sites!

She is featuring my Pottery Barn Knock off Owl Bookends. Go on over and take a look, there are great ideas to inspire you to create beautiful looks for so much less!!! Thank you Beckie!!

On a little side note... I know I have been away from here for what seems like forever!! I do plan on starting up again with new projects and ideas. The reason for my little break was I found out that I am pregnant with our 5th baby! A little girl! It was a rough first few months, but now I feel like my old self and can't wait to get back to all the craftiness!! Thanks so much for sticking with me!!

Leslie :)

Anthro Knock-off Bag with Printable Pattern

2011-03-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

Today I am going to share with you a tutorial for an Anthropologie knock-off bag. I fell in love with it when I first saw it, then my eyes popped out when I saw the price tag! $498.00 for a purse, it is darling but certainly not worth that much! I knew I could make my own adorable version and spend way, way less!

I created a pattern for the main shape of the bag which I have for you to download and print at the bottom of this post. This is a really easy pattern without too many steps.
I have never done piping before, so I created a sort of faux piping for this bag. It's just a small strip of fabric sewed in the seam.

Here is a cut list for all the pieces you are going to need.

Once everything is cut out, pin the top band to the top of the bag piece. Since the bag is wider than the band this is where you create the pleats. I pinned them so they looked even.

Now that you have it pinned where you want, stitch across the top of the bag.

For the "piping" take the strip of fabric and fold it in half and press.

With the right sides together pin the piping around the bag. Make sure the "piping" is pinned toward the inside of the bag.

Stitch all around the side seams and around the bottom of the bag.

For the handles press the fabric in on both sides and then fold in half and press. Stitch up both sides. (If you would like a firmer strap you could add interfacing to them.)

On outside of bag pin handles and stitch.

For the lining...

Sew the lining band to the lower bag lining.

**Now is the time to add a pocket if you like. You can customize it to any size you like**

With right sides together stitch around the lining sides and bottom leaving an opening for turning out.

Pin lining to bag with right sides together, stitch across the top.

Flip and sew lining closed.

For the bow sew around with right sides together leaving a opening for turning out. Turn out and stitch opening closed.

Do the same for the bow's "knot".

Secure bow to bag by hand stitching it in place.
That's it!

I also made one in a red fabric with a mini one for my daughter :)

I hope you like it! If you have any questions please feel free to ask!

anthropattern

Purex Crystals Giveaway winners!

2011-03-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

Sorry I didn't post these yesterday, the day got away from me!!

The winners of the Purex Crytals Giveaway are

Comment #4 and # 11!!

Lisa and LeahsMommy

Contact me with your information and I will send you your prize!

Thank you so much everyone who entered!

You can still go to Purex Facebook page and when you "like" them you can get $1.00 off coupon for the crystals. I really love them and think you would too!

I'm Guest Posting over at Someday Crafts!

2011-03-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

Head on over to Someday Crafts to see my guest post for a tutorial on an Anthro Knock-off purse. I have included a printout for the pattern too!

Someday Crafts is one of my favorite's so be sure to check out all fun projects and ideas Michelle has!!

Thank you Michelle for having me!

Purex Complete Crystals Giveaway!!

2011-02-28T14:40:00.000-08:00

I am a Purex insider and was recently sent a sample of their new Purex® Complete Crystals Softener. I used it and I love it. It smells so good, it's easy to use and doesn't leave spots on clothes like other liquid softeners can sometimes do. I used the Fresh Spring Waters scent and it made my laundry smell wonderful!

I am giving away 2 free bottles of Purex® Complete Crystals Softener to 2 of my followers!!!

Here is what Purex has to say about this new product:

Purex® Complete Crystals Softener FACT SHEET

WHAT IT IS?
UNIQUE CRYSTAL FORM, 92% NATURAL FABRIC SOFTENER
Introducing Purex® Complete Crystals SoftenerTM*; a purer way to get laundry that smells clean and fresh for weeks. 92% natural, this product’s unique crystal form works differently than traditional oil-based softeners that coat fabrics with oily residue, because it infuses fibers with long-lasting fragrance. In addition, since you add it directly with your laundry, this means no more waiting for the rinse cycle, no messy residual gunk in your washing machine, and no more stains from spilling liquid fabric softener.

HOW IT’S USED?
ADDED WITH LAUNDRY AT THE START OF THE WASH CYCLE
Why struggle with plastic fabric softener balls, risk staining your clothes or waste time waiting for the rinse cycle? Simply add Purex Complete Crystals Softener directly with your laundry at the beginning of every wash cycle to infuse fabrics with long lasting freshness.

HOW IT WORKS?
CRYSTALS DISSOLVE INFUSING FABRICS WITH FRESHNESS
Laundry scent lovers will perk up as freshness is infused into clothes with this new fabric softener. Over time, traditional oil-based softeners coat fibers causing harmful oily residue to accumulate. Purex Complete Crystals Softeners penetrate fabrics to reduce fiber entanglement and smooth frayed fibers providing a naturally soft feel.

WHY IT’S DIFFERENT?
SAFE FOR ALL LAUNDRY AND BETTER FOR FABRICS
Do ALL of your laundry—worry free! Purex Complete Crystals Softeners are safe for all laundry and will not harm, wear down or discolor your fabrics like oil-based softeners. Safe for all fabrics, including baby clothes, athletic wear, towels, and whites.
Unlike other softeners, Crystals WILL:
• Preserve the flame retardant benefits of your children’s clothes
• Retain your athletic wear’s wicking ability which draws sweat away from your body
• Maintain your towels’ built-in ability to absorb water
• Keep your white clothing from yellowing and graying vs. using traditional softeners

The product won’t harm your clothes and is safe and convenient for the entire family!

VARIETIES?
ON-TREND SCENTS
Purex Complete Crystals Softener is available in three on-trend fragrances: Fresh Spring Waters TM, Lavender Blossom TM, and Tropical Splash.

Get your own bottle by becoming a follower and leave a comment here telling me you did . If you already follow leave a comment here telling me which scent you think you might like!

Giveaway ends March 14th!

The winners will be selected by random.org and your coupon for a free bottle will be sent right out to you!

American Crafter Final Results

2011-02-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

Today the final results are in for American Crafter!! I came in 3rd place :) This was such a great time and I'm so happy I got to be apart of it! Thank you everyone for voting!!

Here is a look at all my projects for the competition. I really love them all.

I also want to share that I spent only $9.00 total on all my crafts. I used things I already had around the house to create my projects. It was fun seeing what I could come up with. It shows you don't need a lot of money to create beautiful, fun crafts!

Thank you again for voting!!!

Anthropologie Inspired Bag

2011-02-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

For my last American Crafter Submission I have made a Anthropologie inspired bag. The original cost $498.00! Mine was only $9.00.

I think it's a cute bag, so cute I decided to make a mini one for my daughter.

I used red gingham and a tan linen fabric. I have never done piping before so I did sort of a faux piping by putting a small strip of contrasting fabric between the front and back of the bag.

I love it but I love the price tag even more! Don't forget to vote!!! Voting Starts Friday and ends Sunday at midnight!!

Click HERE to vote!

2011-02-21T22:55:00.001-08:00

I made it to the final round of American Crafter! Thank you so much for your votes! This has been a lot of fun and I have enjoyed being apart of this competition. The final round theme is contestants choice, I think I know what my project will be. I have to get started tomorrow, voting is Friday!

Pottery Barn Wanna Be Owl Bookends

2011-02-18T17:04:00.000-08:00

I was looking at Pottery Barn the other day and I saw these cute owl bookends! My youngest daughter has an owl room and I thought they would be adorable in there. I figured I could make my own version from the fabric I already had and save my $30.00.

I first made a pattern for the owls, then cut out the fabric I needed for them. I also used felt for the eyes and some scrap flannel I had for the wings.

I hand embroidered everything in place before I sewed then together.

Once they were put together I stuffed them and put rice at the bottom to weigh them down.

I think they are pretty cute for wanna be's!

Week 3 Voting begins for American Crafter

2011-02-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

Today voting is open for American Crafter. This weeks theme is Vintage.

Go on over to Naptime Crafters and check out all the projects, then vote for your top 3 favorite. My project is the Dressing Table Re-Do. Voting is open till Sunday at midnight!!

Thank you for voting!

Featured!

2011-02-15T17:42:00.000-08:00

I am being featured over at Knock Off Decor for my Pottery Barn inspired lamp.

There are tons of great ideas over there and who doesn't love creating something that a high end store sells for a fraction of the price!

Thank you Beckie for the Feature!!

Vintage Dressing Table Re-Do

2011-02-15T12:34:00.000-08:00

I made it to round 3 of American Crafter! Thank you to all who voted!! This weeks theme is Vintage.

I knew exactly what I wanted to do. My mom and dad have had a vintage 1920's dressing table in their garage for years just sitting and collecting dust. It was the perfect project. Here is the before: (click photos to enlarge)

And here it is now after sanding down, priming and painting. I distressed it a little too. I left the old knobs, just washed them up a bit. I think they are beautiful and help keep the original vintage feel. I really love it! Such a timeless, well made piece of furniture.

I have the matching dresser, that is next on my re-do list!

Voting starts Friday!!

New Look and Last Day to Vote!

2011-02-13T00:50:00.000-08:00

We have a new blog look! I love the way it turned out and I think the colors are beautiful! Hope you like it!

And don't forget voting for American Crafter ends Sunday at midnight!! Vote for your top 3 favorite projects!!

Winners are announced Monday morning! Can't wait to see the results!

Thank you all who voted, I really appreciate it!!

Voting begins for American Crafter

2011-02-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

Today the voting starts for American Crafter! Vote for your top 3 projects. Mine is a upcycled sweater wreath. Head on over to see all 10 wonderful projects!!! Voting ends Sunday at midnight! Thanks!!

American Crafter Round 2 Upcycled Sweater Wreath

2011-02-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

Round 2 of American Crafter is this week and my project is a Upcycled Sweater Wreath. It was hard for me to figure out what to do at first. The theme is "Let it Snow" and where I'm at in California it is anything but winter. It feels like spring with 80 degree weather. But once I decided what i was going to do it was easy to get into the winter spirit!

I decided to make a knot wreath because it's something so versatile and that anyone can do. I had a beautiful creamy white sweater that I was getting rid of and cut it into strips and knotted them around a wire hanger. I used scrap fabric to make rosettes and then embellished them with vintage buttons. I really love the way it turned out. It doesn't look like a project that didn't cost a cent!

Voting starts Friday!!

American Crafter Results!

2011-02-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

The American Crafter results are in!

My Peek-a-boo Valentine dress got 2nd place!

Which sends me to round 2. Thank you all who voted for me, I really appreciate it!

Round 2 theme is "Let it snow"

This week should be tougher, it doesn't really feel like winter in California when it's 80 degrees outside!
Projects will be up at Naptime Crafters on Friday. Can't wait to see them all!

Last Day to Vote for American Crafter

2011-02-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

If you haven't already there is still time to vote for American Crafter over at Naptime Crafters. Voting ends today at midnight, vote for your 3 favorite projects!! Winners are announced tomorrow morning!

Here is my entry:

Easy Cracker Heath Bar Candy Recipe

2011-02-05T18:33:00.000-08:00

I found this delicious recipe a few years ago and it has become a favorite in my house. It tastes like heath bar candy. It's so easy and made with ingredients we all usually already have in our kitchen. (It's great if you need a sweet treat in a pinch too)

You need:

Foil lined cookie sheet
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1 cup of butter
12oz. chocolate chips
1 sleeve of saltine crackers

Preheat oven to 350

Line the cookie sheet with foil then spray with PAM or other cooking spray.

Place rows of crackers on the cookie sheet.

In a sauce pan melt butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil for 1 minute.

Pour sauce evenly over crackers and bake at 350 for 8 minutes.

When done, immediately sprinkle with chocolate chips, let melt and spread with spatula.

I usually leave them just like that, but I decided today I would be festive and sprinkle hearts over it for Valentine's Day.

Refrigerate until the chocolate is firm. Break into pieces and enjoy!

I think it would also make a nice neighbor or teacher gift too!

Kitchen Makeover

2011-02-04T21:41:00.000-08:00

I was really wanting to re-do my kitchen, technically there was nothing wrong with it to begin with. The cabinets are in good condition and I felt bad painting over perfectly good cabinets. I decided to give it a try and hope for the best!

Here is the before (click photos to enlarge):

I sanded and then primed the cabinets first. I bought Martha Stewart brand paint in a pretty creamy white color. Gave the cabinets a coat of paint, then when they dried I used a Ralph Lauren glaze over them.

I absolutely love the way they turned out! They have held up great, I was worried that the paint would peel or chip. With 4 kids and lots of use there has been none of that!

I also wanted to add knobs to the cabinets. I was so lucky and found a bag of 88 wooden knobs at a thrift store for $1.99. Can you believe that!?! 88 brand new knobs!

I love how much a simple item can change the look in such a big way.

It took about a week to complete, the sanding was the worst part (it always is!). It was definitely worth the work put into it! I love it!

I'm linking up at Thrifty Decor Chick Before and after party

Don't forget to vote!!!!

2011-02-04T08:41:00.000-08:00

Today the voting starts for American Crafter! Head on over and vote for your favorite top 3 projects! Voting ends Sunday at Midnight!

Click Here to vote

Here is my entry:

American Crafter and the Peek-a-Boo Valentine Dress

2011-02-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to share that I was picked to be a contestant on American Crafter! The theme for round 1 is Valentine's Day.

I was anxious to get started when I found out the theme. As a Mom of 4 it's sometimes hard to get out to the craft store when ever you need to, (as I'm sure many of you know) so I decided I would create my craft from the supplies I already had on hand.

I knew I wanted to make a Valentine's dress for my daughter. I had a vision in mind but I am not a pattern maker and the only pattern I had on hand in my daughter's size was a Raggedy Ann costume. I figured I could alter it enough to my liking.

I love the way it turned out, even cuter than I had originally planned. I changed the collar, shortened the sleeves and added cute ruffles to the back of the dress.

I pinned the pinafore back with buttons so the ruffles would peek through. I hand embroidered the word "love", and crocheted a heart and added cute buttons as an embellishment.

I also crocheted a heart and flower to add to a hairband.

I think she looks so sweet and to me, it's a perfect Valentine's Day look.

It was a lot of fun creating this dress and I am SO happy with the way it turned out!! Head on over to Nap Time Crafters and vote for your favorite American Crafter!!! Voting Starts Friday!!!

Photography

2011-02-01T23:36:00.000-08:00

Last week I had a little photo shoot with my cousins and their cute little ones. I loved the way they turned out and I thought I would share a few!

I love photography and I am having so much fun!

Leaning to Crochet

2011-01-29T00:22:00.000-08:00

My Grandmother could crochet beautifully, she was so talented. She would make all her grand kids blankets and dolls. When I was pregnant with my first baby she made her the most darling outfits and booties.

When I was about 8 I went to her house for the afternoon and she taught me how to crochet a little purse. I really enjoyed doing it and was so proud of what I had made.

Unfortunately I never went back for another lesson.

Recently I was going through some old childhood toys and things I had saved through the years and I found the little red purse I made that day. It brought back great memories and it made me want to learn again.

Today I bought a crochet hook and some yarn. I really love crocheted flowers, I think they look so cute on hairbands and as little embellishments.

I looked on the internet and found this tutorial. It was easy to follow and had a really good video. She also has some other crochet tutorials that I am anxious to try.

Here's my first attempt at a flower. It's not the best but I don't think too bad for a first try. I will keep practicing!

Any tips or advice would be appreciated!

Now SOLD OUT!! 24hr. Special: Ready Made Magazine Deal 3 year Subscription for $6.99

2011-01-13T21:12:00.001-08:00

Sorry the offer is SOLD OUT!!

I found this deal on TheFrugalGirls.com. It's a Ready Made Magazine 3 year subscription for 6.99.

Their description says,

ReadyMade is the only do-it-yourself (DIY)/lifestyle magazine for young people. It entertains and informs through DIY projects for fast-evolving lifestyles.

Just thought I'd pass along the good deal. Offer only good for 24hrs.

Click Here to get all the info

Kids Craft... Valentine's Knot Wreath

2011-01-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

No-Sew Valentine's Knot Wreath

This is a very easy no-sew way for kids to make their own wreath. All you need is some fabric strips and a wire hanger.

I happened to have a pink wire hanger, I have no idea where it came from but it works perfectly!! I also had all the fabric already on hand.

Shape the hanger into a circle as best as you can, the fabric will hide all the imperfections.

I cut out strips of 3 different fabrics, I just sort of guessed on the size.
Mine happen to be 4 1/2 X 9.

Now you just start tying knots all the way around.

My daughter had fun making this cute and easy wreath, she plans to hang it on her bedroom door. It was a nice afternoon craft and it was free!

Valentine's Day Coffee Filter Wreath

2011-01-05T16:32:00.001-08:00

I have seen coffee filter wreaths before and since Valentine's Day is not far away I thought a heart shaped wreath would be perfect. I found a foam heart wreath at Joann's and I also bought the floral pins and ribbon. I had the coffee filters and dye on hand.

I put the coffee filters in the sink with the dye in hot water. It didn't take very long for them to change color. Once they were done I rinsed them with warm water and put them on cookie sheets to dry.

We weren't very patient with the drying process so we got out hair dryers and my handy assistants started drying. That went much faster!!

I cut out the ribbon and pinned it in placed on my wreath before I added the roses, that way I wouldn't have to find a place for it later.

I took a few filters and wrapped them around the wreath so that none of the white foam would show through. I made rosettes out of the filters, it took me a bit but I finally got the hang of it.

The same could be done with tissue paper, I liked using the filters because they are so much more durable.

After I was done I changed my mind and decided to put the bow on the wreath instead of at the top.

I like the way it turned out and I was so happy that I discovered dyeing coffee filters, it was a lot of fun!!

Happy (early) Valentine's Day

Spice Rack Turned K-Cup Coffee Holder

2011-01-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

I have a Keurig coffee maker, which I love having and I have seen the holders that they sell for the coffee k-cups, but they are usually around $30. Since it isn't a high priority item, I haven't bought one yet.

I was at a thrift store the other day and I saw a empty spice rack and it looked like it might just hold the K-cup coffees. Well, for $3 it was worth a try.

I brought it home and it worked perfectly!

I added a knob on the top for easier turning, but I didn't get a picture of it. I ended up giving this one as a gift to my Grandpa who received a Keurig for Christmas. I am on the look out for another, which doesn't seem like it will be too hard to find. Spice racks must not be all that great, they are always at the thrift stores! Good thing for me I guess :)

Personalized Pillow Cases

2011-01-01T23:02:00.000-08:00

I made a few of these pillow cases for Christmas gifts this year and I had so much fun making them I thought I would share.

I used a pillow case I already had for the template and cut out the fabric I needed. I printed out the letters in a font I liked and then used them as a pattern to cut out the name. I attached the letters before I completed the pillow case. It makes it much easier that way.

I pinned the letters in place then sewed around them twice in a somewhat messy way. I thought it gave it a cute look and it was easier than trying to get a straight line. I didn't use any fabric heat n bond with the letters, it worked for me to just pin them.

Then I added some little labels I made to them.

I think they are so cute and I loved making them. It would be a cute party favor for a slumber party too!

Super HeroT-Shirt Cape

2010-12-27T16:17:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have had a new post because I have been so busy re-doing my kitchen, ( I will have a post for that later). I have also been busy with my family, 3 of my kids have birthdays close together and then Thanksgiving and Christmas came. Now that things are settling down I have a lot of projects that I have been working on to share.

First off is a super hero cape attached to a t-shirt. I originally was going to make it for my son, but I didn't have his size of t-shirt on hand. So I decided that maybe my daughter would like one, after all girls can be hero's too!
I used a women's shirt that I was getting rid of and cut out the lightening bolt for the front and used the back of the shirt to make the cape. I appliqued the bolt and sewed the cape on and that's it..instant super hero!

She loved it! She ran around fighting crime

Turns out that being a hero is exhausting

Vinyl Labels

2010-09-14T16:09:00.000-07:00

I was blog surfing the other night and I came across House of Smiths. I don't know how I had never seen her blog before but I love it and I was inspired by her use of vinyl.

I used my Cricket to label a few jars I had around my house.

I also took a frame I had and used Scrapbook paper for the background, then cut out our initial in vinyl. I put it on our entryway table, I love it!

I like front doors with the address numbers on the front. To me it has a very cottage feel, which I love. So I put vinyl on the front door too!

It was so much easier than I thought it would be, I can't wait to get more colors for organizing and labeling all around my house!!

Wine Glass Charms and Napkin Rings Using Shrinky Dinks

2010-08-31T19:00:00.000-07:00

As a kid we always had Shrinky Dinks. Well, I found out that Shrinky Dinks sell printable sheets, what a neat idea!! Fall is right around the corner I thought I could make personalized labels for drinks or napkins. I first made and printed out the image, cut the shape out that I wanted and added a hole punch to the top (it's important to add the hole before you shrink it).

Then it's time for the fun part, watching your Shrinky Dinks Shrink! I put them in the oven and watched them curl and move all over the place.

Once it cools and is all done I added a ring and a ribbon to attach it to a wine glass.

It also works as a cute napkin ring

There are so many ideas you could come up with using this paper. I also made a necklace with the names of my kids.

This was so fun and I am looking forward to using it again!!

Disney Ruffle Tee

2010-08-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

This time of year our family starts to plan our trip to Disneyland. And what trip would be complete if you didn't dress Disney! I had some polka dot fabric and decided to embellish a t-shirt for my daughter. I just took three ruffles I made from the fabric and shaped a Mickey (or Minnie head in this case) and added a cute fabric bow. I am probably going to make a skirt to match. We are huge fans of all things Disney and this fits in perfectly!!

New Items on Etsy

2010-08-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

I just listed a few new items in my Etsy store. I really love the bags, they are great for so many things. They would be great to use as a reusable shopping bag!!

Pottery Barn Inspired Lamp Makeover

2010-08-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

I really love everything Pottery Barn sells, I don't however love the prices. I saw this lamp today at a thrift store and it reminded me of something that Pottery Barn would have....just slightly altered.

I thought it was sort of a combination of these two lamps...
So I took it apart, cleaned out the inside of the glass and painted everything that was 80's green to black. I think it came out beautifully!! Not bad for $10.00

Ruffle Hobo Bag

2010-08-06T00:28:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for a new purse, and I just couldn't find one that I liked enough to buy. I figured maybe I could just make one to suit my needs! I came up with this "Ruffle Bag". It's cute, functional, and there is LOTS of room inside for all the things Mom's need to carry. Like a wallet, keys, make-up, snacks for the kids, toys, treasures my kids find on the ground and give to me as "gifts". And then there will still be plenty of room!
I was so happy with the way it turned out I have decided to list a few in my Esty Shop. I have come up with different variations of the bag that I will list over the next couple of days. I have had so much fun coming up with new ideas for my new favorite bag!!

Leslie :)

I'm Back...

2010-08-05T23:54:00.000-07:00

I didn't mean to be gone for so long, it just seemed to happen. I think that crafting and coming up with ideas can come in waves. For a while life just got busy and crafting and creating took a backseat. But now I'm back and have some new ideas and fun finds that I can't wait to share! I am glad to be back in the swing of things again!!!

Leslie :)

P.S. The Blog is getting a new look too!!

Clock Re-Do

2010-07-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

I found this clock and I thought it was so cute, just very outdated.

I took it apart, spray painted and distressed it. Then I cut a new clock face out of some scrapbook paper and added numbers cut with my cricut. I think it turned out really nice and it made the clock much more up to date.

Now I need to find the perfect place to hang my "new" clock!

Blanket Giveaway Winner!

2010-06-10T07:02:00.000-07:00

I put everyone's names in a random draw and the winner is....*MICHELLE CLAUDE*. Congratulations and thank you so much for being a follower! Send me your mailing info and I will send the blanket out to you!!!

Boy's Neck Tie Tee

2010-06-09T17:55:00.000-07:00

This is a boy version of this Bow Tee. I cut up one of my husbands shirts and added it to a plain tee for my son. I think it is adorable and so is my little model! I couldn't decide on just one picture so here are 5!

5o followers Giveaway!

2010-06-09T00:04:00.000-07:00

We have reached 50 followers!!!! Time for the Doll Blanket Giveaway!!! I will draw a name tonight and post the winner on Thursday morning! Thank you so much all of you who follow!!

(Next goal... 100 followers and we will have a giveaway to celebrate that goal when we reach it!)

T-Shirt Bow

2010-06-08T23:23:00.000-07:00

Add a bow to a t-shirt

This is a really cute way to embellish an everyday plain t-shirt, and so simple!

I used another t-shirt that was too small for my daughter to cut out the three pieces that are going to be the bow. Depending on the size of bow you want, measurements will vary. I just sort of guessed as I cut mine out.

Then I pinned the top part of my bow to the shirt, gathering it on the sides to make the pleats.

Sew up all four sides of the bow. I decided to use a contrasting thread, which I think adds to the look :)

Next, pin the part that will be hanging down from your bow.

And then sew up the sides of the fabric.

And lastly pin the fabric that will be the "knot" of the bow and sew up all sides.

I love how something so simple can add so much. This is for my daughter, but I think I might need to make one for myself!!

Skirt to Dress Refashion

2010-06-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

I love this skirt and the fabric it's made from. Using this skirt to dress tutorial I turned it into a dress for my daughter.

It's really fun to find cute, quality fabrics and turn them into clothes for my kids. You end up with one of a kind pieces that you won't find anywhere!

Easy as Pie Children's Apron

2010-05-31T18:08:00.000-07:00

Easy as Pie Children's Apron

I have two daughters one is 7 and the other is 2. They both love to be in the kitchen. So I came up with a really easy way to make aprons.

I first took 2 pieces of fabric and cut them into triangles (I made sure they were wide enough to fit around my daughters waist). I also cut out another rectangular piece of contrasting fabric for the pocket.

With the right sides together I sewed around the triangle leaving an opening to turn out. Then I topped stitched around the entire triangle.

Before adding the pocket I stitched the top of the pocket, then pinned it to the apron and sewed it into place.

And that's it! Just wrap around and tie in the back. Easy as pie!

Works great for a playtime

Or cooking time

( This is also great for boys. I am going to make an apron for my two boys so they can keep their tools in the pockets)

More Chances to Win

2010-05-27T00:35:00.000-07:00

Head on over to the fantastic blog *if i could* to enter for another chance to win the no-slip doll blanket.
While you're there check out the fantastic tutorials they have gathered.

Giveaway closes at midnight (Mountain time) on June 3... winner will be announced on Friday, June 4.

Thanks so much to Missy and Kimi for having this Giveaway!

Make an I spy game

2010-05-21T22:35:00.000-07:00

My kids own one of these I spy game tubes, they love it. I admit that even my husband and I were caught up in finding that last object that just seemed impossible to find. These are great games that you can take anywhere and really keep kids busy(and yes adults too ). Well it turns out that they are really easy to make and the kids have a great time helping too.

We first went on a hunt around the house to search for all the little treasures. This part was a game in itself. My kids had a great time looking for all the little things.
We put rice and thin colored beads in a bowl and mixed in our little treasures.

I happened to have a plastic tube that had caps on the ends but a jar would work well too. You can even buy plastic tubes online.We filled up the tube using a paper funnel and then super glued the caps to make sure we won't have rice all over the house. I made a list of our items and printed out multiple copies so we can cross the items off the list as we find them.

It's really fun and my kids are having a great time finding all the little treasures!

Doll Blanket Giveaway!!

2010-05-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

When we reach 50 followers we will be giving away this really cute no-slip doll blanket!!
Join in to win!!

(fabric may vary)

I Love my Cricut

2010-05-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a Cricut and I really, really love it! I don't even scrapbook and already I have used it for so many projects. Most recently I used it to cut out letters and framed them to hang over my bed.

There are so many uses for this machine and I am having a great time coming up with new ideas. I even used it to stencil the pillow on my bed using the freezer paper stencil technique.

I highly recommend getting one. You will have so much fun!

No Slip Baby Doll Blanket Tutorial

2010-05-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

My youngest daughter is almost 2 and always has trouble keeping her baby dolls wrapped up in their blankets. I came up with a way so her doll's won't slip out anymore.

I first cut out 2 square pieces of fabric and with the right sides together I sewed up around the 4 sides leaving a spot to turn ride side out.

I next cut a rectangular piece of fabric to place diagonally across the blanket. Press the edges in.

Before you pin into place you will need to stitch the top of the fabric that will be the opening.
Next you pin the top fabric to the bottom fabric. This will become the pouch that the doll slips into.
Sew the 3 sides of the fabric, leaving the top open.
Now you have attached the fabric that is the pouch for the doll.

No more slipping baby dolls!!

I heart Faces Entry

2010-05-15T15:37:00.000-07:00

I decided to enter one of my photos for an iheartfaces.com challenge. The challenge is dedicated to flowers. I recently took a photo of my daughter and I just loved how she looks in it. So here goes, wish me luck!

Click here to see my entry

Turn a woman's skirt into a little girl's dress

2010-05-14T19:01:00.001-07:00

I found this skirt at the thrift store and I loved the fabric. Cute little beach balls all over it. Since it didn't fit me I decided I would make my little girl a dress from it.

I first measured the width across my little girls chest and then cut off the excess fabric from the sides. The skirt buttoned up on the side, so I repositioned the buttons to the middle before I cut so the dress will be able to button up the back.

Then with the right sides pinned together I sewed up each side.

So now it still looks like a skirt, just smaller.

I took the left over fabric I cut off earlier and cut two strips. Then folded both sides in middle and then over again.

I then sewed up both side of the straps and attached them to the dress. Then you're done!

I added a few buttons to the front. I really like the way it turned out. She is all ready for the Summer!! Isn't she cute!!

T-Shirt Transformation

2010-04-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

I found this t-shirt on clearance for a few dollars after St. Patrick's Day, I then picked up a plain white tee to embellish.

I cut off the bottom half to turn into a pair of shorts for my 2 year old. You could also turn it into a skirt. I love by using the bottom of the t-shirt you don't have to hem!

Then I cut out the little face, which I think is really cute. And sewed it onto the white tee.

I added a button onto each sleeve.

I think it turned out really cute and you have a coordinating outfit for hardly anything at all!

She loves it!

The T-shirt Purse Tutorial

2010-04-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

I found this t-shirt and liked it a lot, I didn't know what I was going to do with it at the time but it was 1.99 and I figured something would come to me sometime. I saw it in my stack of fabric today and decided to make a t-shirt purse for my daughter.

I first cut the pieces out, with the image being the main part of my purse.

Then with the right sides together I sewed up the sides leaving the top and bottom open.

I cut 2 strips from the bottom of the t-shirt. One will be the strap and I decided to make the other a ruffle for the bottom.

I sewed and gathered the first strip of fabric to make a ruffle.

I then pinned and sewed it into place between the two bottom layers. I didn't do any folding under because I like the way a cut t-shirt looks and the curl it has when it's cut.

I attatched the handles to the inside, and then made a bow at the top.

I then decided to embelish it with adding buttons on the rockets windows and the stars. I really like the way it turned out. The options are endless, with different kind of t-shirts and things you can add on to them.

New Adventure

2010-04-22T00:06:00.000-07:00

So, I have decided to start a craft blog. I don't know what will happen or if it will take off but I follow and enjoy so many blogs out there, that I decided to start my own. I love to sew, paint, turn bargain finds into fantastic items, photography and pretty much anything to do with crafts!
I am also a stay at home Mom to my four little ones. They are 7, 5, 3 and 23 months. I am married to my husband Matthew of 8 1/2 years. He works unbelievably hard so that I am able to stay home with our children.
Everyday is something new and in between all the things that come along with being a Mom I try to squeeze in creating new and fun things. I hope that you enjoy them!