Saturday, July 13, 2013

Bubble Gum Bouquet (edible craft)



Free Craft Projects - Bubble Gum Bouquet

Copyright © 2007-2008 Incredible Edible Crafts.
This delightful craft project was kindly contributed by Lana Glass of Incredible Edible Crafts. Please contact Lana with any questions regarding this project.
Materials used: a flowerpot, Dubble Bubble Gum, blue cellophane, polka dot cellophane, floral foam, blue plastic grass or blue shredded paper, stem wire (16 or 18 ga), yellow curling ribbon, scotch tape, glue dots, and tools (scissors, serrated knife, and wire cutters).
Edible Crafts: Make Candy Bouquets and Centerpieces For Fun & Profit.
Step 1. Take a flowerpot. It can be any flowerpot you like. I chose a yellow and blue ceramic flowerpot (5.5� in diameter), because it goes well with the yellow and blue wrappers of the bubble gum pieces.
Step 2. Cut the floral foam to the proper size so it will fit tightly in the flowerpot. Cut a piece of blue cellophane, and then put the piece of floral foam in the middle of this cellophane piece. Gather the cellophane up around the foam and insert it in the pot. The foam should be about 1� lower than the edge of the pot.
Step 3. Cover the foam with blue plastic decorative grass or shredded blue paper.
Step 4. Make several bubble gum flowers. a) Take stem wire (16 or 18 ga) or bamboo skeweres, Dubble Bubble gum pieces, floral tape, scissors, and wire cutters.
b) Join 3 bubble gum pieces to each stem using green floral tape. First join a piece of candy to the end of the wire/bamboo skewer. One or two inches down the wire or skewer attach the second piece of candy. Go down another one or two inches and attach the third piece of candy on the opposite end of the second one. If you use a bamboo skewer, wrap the rest of the skewer with floral tape so it is completely green. With green stem wire it is not necessary. I made 10 bubble gum flowers. Three of them are taller than the others; they will be placed at the back of the bouquet.
Step 5. Wrap the bubble gum flowers in cellophane. a) Cut a square piece of polka dot cellophane. In my case I used 7� x 7� pieces. b) Carefully poke the bubble gum stem through the center of a cellophane piece, or fold the cellophane square in half and fold it in half again across the first fold and cut the tip off the corner. You will end up with a small hole in the center of your unfolded cellophane piece.
c) Pull the cellophane into a cone shape it should be just beneath the bubble gum pieces and tie it with a piece of yellow curling ribbon. Fluff the cellophane out. Decorate all of the bubble gum flowers this way.
candy arrangement 3
Step 6. Insert the bubble gum flowers into the pot. The tallest flowers go in the back. Arrange the flowers in a way you find attractive.
Step 7. You may want to add additional pieces of blue cellophane into the arrangement (in the back, in the middle, etc.) to create a fuller bouquet using floral picks. Take cellophane and cut rectangular pieces. Take one of the rectangles and loosely fold it in half the short way and then in half the long way. Take a green floral pick, put about 1/2" of the closed corner of the cello piece against the blunt end of the pick, and wrap the wire tightly around it. Fluff the cellophane out. Now the cello or tissue paper piece is ready to be inserted into the floral foam.
Your bubble gum bouquet is ready!

Decorative Strawberry Jar (home craft)

Keep your fresh strawberries fresh in this cute decorative jar. Use Cricut Expression Personal Electronic Cutter with Plantin SchoolBook and Accent Essentials cartridges. This project is easy to do and you can use it as much as you want.

Materials:
  • Cricut Expression Personal Electronic Cutter with Plantin SchoolBook and Accent Essentials® cartridges [290300]
  • Cricut Preserves cartridge [2000142]
  • Cricut Cuttables Vinyl, Cotton [290458]
  • Cricut Cuttables Vinyl Transfer Tape [290519]
  • Glass jar with lid
  • Fabric: white, green patterned, pink patterned
  • White grosgrain ribbon
  • Button: pink
  • Needle and green thread
  • Pinking shears
  • Ultra Heat n' Bond
Instructions:
  1. Measure diameter of jar lid and add 5". Using Plantin SchoolBook cartridge and cardstock, cut one <circle> in that size. Pin circle to green patterned fabric and cut around with pinking shears.
     
  2. Cover edges of lid with adhesive. Place fabric over lid and pull down, adhering fabric in place.
     
  3. Wrap ribbon around lid and adhere in place. Overlap ends as shown. Stitch button to ribbon as shown to secure ends.
     
  4. Follow Ultra Heat n’ Bond directions to prepare white and pink fabric for cutting. Let cool and remove paper backing.
     
  5. Cut lid. Using Preserves cartridge and white fabric, select Lid feature and cut one < Strwbry2> ½" smaller than lid diameter. Using pink patterned fabric, select Lid feature, press Shift, and cut one <Strwb2-s> at the same size. Layer and adhere to lid as shown following Ultra Heat n\' Bond package instructions.
     
  6. Cut strawberry. Using cotton vinyl, select Word feature and cut one ¾ < Strwbry1>. Use transfer tape to place on jar front

Ladybug Memo Board (home craft)

Normally bugs scare me, but these bugs are here to decorate. With paints, fabrics and some other materials we can learn how to make fabric memo boards.

Materials:
  • STYROFOAM Brand Foam:
    • Sheet, 36" x 12" x 1"
    • Eggs: 2", three; 2-1/2", three; 3", one
  • Extra-loft quilt batting, crib size or 45" wide, 1/6 yd.
  • Satin varnish
  • Gesso
  • Pre-mixed patching plaster
  • Acrylic paints: red; black; bright green; white
  • White/green gingham fabric, 45" wide, 1-1/2 yds.
  • One package yellow jumbo piping
  • Grosgrain ribbon, 1 yd. each: yellow, 3/8"; green, 5/8"
  • Black plastic-coated wire, 18- and 22-gauge, one package each
  • Natural raffia
  • Clear plastic push pins, seven
  • Serrated knife
  • Candle stub or paraffin
  • Artificial greenery, one stem each: ivy cluster; small white flowers; small yellow flowers
  • Fine-line black permanent marker
  • Round pencil with new eraser
  • Yardstick, or ruler
  • 17 Round toothpicks
  • Paintbrushes: medium flat; small round
  • Disposable palette
  • Water basin
  • Paper towels
  • Scissors
  • Glass-head straight pins, two
  • Wire cutters
  • Needle nose pliers
  • Awl, or metal skewer
  • Putty knife, 1" wide
  • Painter's mask (to be worn while sanding plaster)
  • Sandpaper: medium; very fine
  • Low-temp glue gun and glue sticks
  • Thick, white craft glue
Steps:
Board
  1. Wax serrated knife with candle stub or paraffin. Use marker to draw two 10" x 16" rectangles onto foam sheet; cut out.
     
  2. Use glue gun to glue five toothpicks, equally spaced, halfway into one long edge of one foam rectangle. Use glue gun to apply glue to protruding toothpick ends, foam edge, and one long edge of second rectangle. Working on flat surface,  quickly and firmly press second rectangle onto toothpicks, flush with first. Let dry. Finished board should measure 16" x 20".
     
  3. Using yardstick and marker, draw 1-1/2"-wide border around board. Draw diagonal lines from border corners to board corners. Score all lines with sharp pencil.
     
  4. Cut two 1-1/2" x 20" strips and two 1-1/2" x 16" strips from batting. Trim strip ends to fit within mitered corners. Use white glue to glue batting strips to borders. Let dry.
     
  5. Measure and cut on straight grain one 22" x 26" gingham rectangle. Measure and cut on bias (diagonal) one 14" x 18" gingham rectangle.
     
  6. Center back of board over wrong side of larger gingham rectangle. Bring fabric allowance around to front, over batting-covered border. Working on opposite sides, from center out, use putty knife to tuck seam allowances into scored lines. Push knife straight down into scored line to keep even tension. Trim fabric at corners and tuck into mitered corners. Center bias fabric over center of board and tuck edges into scored lines.
     
  7. Beginning and ending in one corner, tuck piping seam allowance into scored edge of border.
     
  8. For hanger, center yellow ribbon over green; secure with white glue. Let dry. Cut inverted "v" into each end of ribbon. Knot ribbon, 3" from each end. Dip glass-head pins into white glue. Push pins through ribbon just below knot, then into edge of board, 1" below top corners. For extra strength, use glue gun to spot glue knots to board.

Ladybugs
 
  1. Wax serrated knife with candle stub or paraffin. Cut all foam eggs in half lengthwise; set aside one half of one medium egg for another project.
     
  2. Insert toothpick into flat side (bottom) of each half-egg body. Holding toothpick, use fingers to coat rounded surface of body with plaster. Push toothpicks into scrap foam; let dry.
     
  3. Sand bug bodies first with medium, then very fine, sandpaper. Recoat, let dry, and sand again. Repeat as needed until completely smooth surface is achieved.
     
  4. Apply one coat gesso to all surfaces of each bug, let dry, then sand with very fine sandpaper. Repeat.
     
  5. Use flat brush to paint bugs red; let dry. Apply second coat; let dry. Using  photo as guide, use round brush to paint black head and wing separation line; use round brush handle to paint black wing dots. Let dry.
     
  6. For large bugs, use pencil eraser to paint bright green dots for eyes; use round brush handle to add white highlight dots to centers. For medium and small bugs, use brush handle for eyes and toothpick for highlight dots. Let dry.
     
  7. Apply three coats varnish to each bug; let dry between coats. Remove toothpicks.
     
  8. For antennae, cut the following from 22-gauge wire: twelve 1-1/2" lengths (small bugs); ten 2" lengths (medium bugs); four 2-1/2" lengths (large bugs). Use pliers to bend spiral into one end of each antenna. Use awl to poke two 1/4"-deep holes in top of each head, 1/8" above bottom edge of body and 1/8" apart. Use white glue to glue antennae into holes.
     
  9. Use awl to poke holes in bottom of three medium and all small bugs. Enlarge holes in small bugs and one medium bug to accommodate push pins, so only pin protrudes. Use white glue to glue push pins into holes. Let dry overnight.
     
  10. For "flying" bugs, cut two 9" lengths from 18-gauge wire. Leaving 1" straight wire tail, bend each wire length into three irregular loops. Use white glue to glue curled wire end into holes in two medium bugs; use glue gun to secure. Set aside.
     
  11. Use wire cutters to cut three 5-1/2" and three 9" lengths from ivy. Cut six small sprigs each from white and yellow flowers.
     
  12. Using photo as guide and glue gun, glue two 9" ivy lengths down left side and one length across top. Glue 5-1/2" ivy lengths to top left corner, to end of 9" length at top of board, and to bottom right corner.
     
  13. Holding seven strands of raffia together as one, tie bow. Glue bow into ivy at top left corner. Glue flowers to board as desired. Glue bugs without pins or wires to board. Glue wire tails of flying bugs into board at top left and bottom right corners.

Felted Coffee Cozy (felting craft)

Bring your own knit coffee cozy to the coffee shop and help save trees. These great free knitting patterns from Bernat Yarns creates cute cozies for the cup and carafe. Felting melts away any imperfections making it perfect for beginner knitters. This project walks you through how to felt using yarn made especially for the purpose. You'll love the soft blended colors created through felting the yarn.
 
Felted Knit Coffee Cozies

Materials:
  • Yarn: Bernat Felting Wool (75 g/2.6 oz) MC: 1 ball of #94131 (New Iris), A: 1 ball of #94605 (Fresh Poppy)
  • Knitting Needles: Size 6.5 mm (U.S. 10½) or size needed to obtain gauge. Snap fastener.
Gauge:

13 sts and 18 rows = 4" [10 cm] in stocking st.
Measurements:
Cup Holder: To fit average take-out cup.
Coffee Press cozy: To fit carafe up to 4 1/2" [11.5 cm] in diameter.

Things to Know Before Felting:

Record all the measurements and changes before and after felting. You will be able to adjust the method to produce proper results.
Always test a sample. Different colored yarns may felt differently.
Colorfastness can be affected by very hot water.
Any knit fabric that has been properly felted becomes very dense and matted.
How to Felt:
Using low water level, run a Hot/Cold cycle for 5 to 15 min. Add a pair of old jeans for agitation.
Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda for a small load. After one cycle, check for size. Repeat if necessary.
Run through the rinse and dry spin cycle.
Do not use a clothes dryer.
Lay felted piece onto a dry towel, away from direct heat or sunlight.
Shape piece to correct measurements.
If an edge ripples, baste a thread through the edge and gather in. Remove the thread after the felting is dry.

Pattern:

Cup Holder:
With MC, cast on 32 sts.
Proceed in stocking st for 2 ins 5 cm, ending with a purl row.
Next row: (Inc 1 st in next st. K7) 4 times. 36 sts.
Cont even for 4 ins 10 cm total length. Cast off.
Using a flat seam, sew side seam.
Coffee Press Cozy:
With MC, cast on 65 sts.
Proceed in stocking st for 4 1/2" [11.5 cm], ending with a purl row. Break MC.
With A, cont in stocking st for 11 1/2" [29 cm] total length, ending with a purl row. Cast off.
Finishing:
Felt pieces following “How to Felt” instructions. Shape pieces to measurements and let dry.
Tip:
Shape felted Cup Holder on an empty take-out cup.
Trim Cozy to measure circumference of Coffee Press plus 3" [7.5 cm] wide by height of Coffee Press to spout. Sew snap to center of side edges. Fasten around Coffee Press as shown in picture.

Photo Fabric Button Magnets (personal craft)

Corinne  shares this clever little gift idea for Mother's Day. Transfer personal photos onto fabric and then use to make fabric button magnets. Embroidery adds a bit of lovely decoration to the magnets.
Mother's Day Magnets
Materials:
  • Inkjet iron-on transfer paper for fabric (the kind used for making your own t-shirts)
  • cotton fabric (I used plain white )
  • embroidery floss, needle and hoop
  • button cover kit (I used sz. 75 or 1 7/8 inches but any size is fine)
  • magnet (I use "super magnets" made by "the magnet source" brand that I get at my local hardware store)
  • strong glue like E6000
If you are using a light colored or thin fabric you may want to use a piece lightweight interfacing on the back so that there is no glare from the metal button underneath)

Directions:
 
  1. Choose the photo you want to use. If you do not already have a digital file of the photo you will need to scan it. Your button cover kit instructions will tell you what size your fabric needs to be in order to make the button. You will want to resize your photo to fit that size. This is the point when you will want to do any photo editing. For example, I made my images black and white at this point.
     
  2. Review the instructions that came with your inkjet transfer paper. Most will instruct you to reverse your image. If so, then reverse your image at this point.
     
  3. I always print out a test sheet on plain paper before I print onto my transfer paper just to make sure everything looks okay. If it looks all right then go ahead and print out your image onto your transfer paper.

    Photo Magnets 1
     
  4. Trim the image to the correct size (the circle size indicated on your button kit).
     
  5. Iron your image onto your fabric according to the instructions that came with your transfer paper. Allow the fabric to cool.
     
  6. Peel off backing paper.

    Photo Magnets 2

    Place fabric in your embroidery hoop and embroider any details and embellishments you choose.
     
  7. Remove fabric from your embroidery hoop.

    Photo Magnets 3

    Trim excess fabric.

    Photo Magnets 4
     
  8. Using a pair of pliers remove the shanks from your button backs.

    Photo Magnets 5
     
  9. Center your fabric circle on your button maker and place button front on top. Use the plastic presser to push the front down.

    Photo Magnets 6

    Tuck all your surrounding fabric toward the center and place the button back on top.

    Photo Magnets 7

    Use the plastic presser again to press the back down until it pops into place.

    Photo Magnets 8

    Push your button out of the rubber positioner.
     
  10. Use a strong glue to attach a magnet onto the back. Allow to dry for several hours (I usually wait overnight) before use.

    Photo Magnets 10
     



Vintage Refrigerator Magnets (craft)

Everyone needs refrigerator magnets, so why not create these vintage ephemeral magnets from Glue Dots for a decked-out fridge? With just a few materials and embellishments you can create an artsy present for someone else or yourself!


 Materials:
  • Craft Glue Dots
  • 1" Glue lines
  • Various ephemeral cards
  • sanding block
  • Magnetic stripping
  • Sepia inks
  • Rubber mallet
  • Embellishments:
    • Ephemera stickers
    • Watch faces
    • Dominos
    • Various fibers
    • Buttons
    • Bottle caps
 Instructions:
  1. Sand ephemeral cards along edges using a sanding block.
  2.  Drag ephemeral cards at their edges in sepia inks.
  3.  Cut magnet strips and place on back of ephemeral cards.
  4. With the rubber mallet, pound the bottle cap until it is flat and add a ephemeral sticker.
  5.  Adhere all embellishments using Craft Glue Dots.
  6.  Secure fibers with 1" Glue Lines.

Felt Watering Can Magnet with Flowers (sewing craft)

A whimsical felt watering can and button-center flowers are a cute addition to the fridge door. Kids can play at "watering the flowers" and make their own flower additions.   
 
Watering Can and Flowers Magnets
 
Materials:

  • Kreinik Very Fine (#4) Braid in 091, 008, 012, 092
  • CPE felt: 10" x 10" #0495 Billiard Green
  • CPE felt: 3" x 3" #0070 Neon Yellow
  • CPE felt: 6" x 6" #0186 Pink
  • CPE felt: 6" x 6" #0093 Lavender
  • 3" x 6" Pellon® Wonder-Under® transfer fusing web
  • 5" x 10 Pellon® Wonder-Under® transfer fusing web
  • 4" x 4" Pellon® Craft-Bond®
  • 3" x 6" Pellon® Fusible Fleece
  • 6" x 6" Pellon® Fusible Fleece
  • 3" x 3" Pellon® Sof-Shape® fusible interfacing
  • 1/2" x 2" magnetic strip
  • Beacon™ FABRI-TAC™ permanent adhesive
  • Beacon™ GEM-TAC™ permanent adhesive
  • Pressing cloth
  • Watering Can and Flower Template

Instructions:


Watering Can Magnet:

  1. Cut green felt into two 5" x 10" pieces. Following manufacturer's instructions, apply transfer web to one piece of green felt. Remove paper backing. Apply fusible fleece to the other piece of green felt. Position felt pieces wrong sides together and fuse. Cut watering can and handle from fused felt.
     
  2. Following manufacturer's instructions, apply fusible interfacing to yellow felt. Apply transfer web to yellow felt. Trace heart pattern on paper side of felt. Cut out heart. Remove paper backing.
     
  3. Position heart on watering can front; fuse.
     
  4. Blanket-stitch around handle and can with Kreinik Very Fine (#4) Braid in 091 Star Yellow. blanket stitch around heart with Kreinik Very Fine (#4) Braid in 008 Green.
     
  5. Glue handle to can with fabric adhesive.
     
  6. Glue magnetic strip to wrong side of magnet with jewel adhesive.

Folk Art Flower Magnets:

  1. Cut lavender felt into two 3" x 3" pieces. Cut pink felt into two 3" x 3" pieces. Following manufacturer's instructions, apply transfer web to one piece of lavender felt and one piece of pink felt. Remove paper backing. Apply fusible fleece to the other pieces of pink and lavender felt. Position felt pieces wrong sides together. Cover with pressing cloth and fuse.
     
  2. Blanket-stitch around pink flower with purple braid. Blanket-stitch around lavender flower with pink braid.
     
  3. Apply craft-bond® to 2" x 2" pink felt and 2" x 2" lavender felt. Trace circle pattern on bonded felt. Cut out circles. Sew pink circle to center of lavender flower by stitching an 'x' with purple braid. Sew lavender circle to center of pink flower by stitching an 'x' with pink braid.
     
  4. Cut magnetic strip into two 1/2" x 1 1/4" pieces. Glue a magnetic strip to the back of each flower.


Crochet Stash baskets (crochet)

These handy baskets  can be used to store any number of household items.  Great for the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and even the utility closet, these cute crochet baskets are easy to make and great for helping you keep your life organized.  These crocheted baskets would also be an adorable way to present baked goods as a gift.  Start now to have a bunch ready for the holiday season.
Crochet Stash Baskets
Materials:
  • 1 ball Lily® Sugar’n Cream yarn (70.9 g / 2.5 oz) in White (for small basket)
  • 2 balls Lily® Sugar’n Cream yarn (70.9 g / 2.5 oz) in Emerald (for medium basket)
  • 3 balls Lily® Sugar’n Cream yarn (70.9 g / 2.5 oz) in Red (for large basket)
  • Size 3.5 mm (U.S. E or 4) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
  • Fabric stiffener

Gauge:  18 sc and 20 rows = 4 ins 10 cm.

Instructions:
Small: Approx 5 x 5 x 6 ins 12.5 x 12.5 x 15 cm, with top unfolded.
Medium: Approx 5 x 10 x 6 ins 12.5 x 25.5 x 15 cm, with top unfolded.

Sides:
  1. Ch 28.
     
  2. 1st row: (RS). 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook. 1 sc in each ch to end of ch. Turn. 27 sc.
     
  3. 2nd row: Ch 1. 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  4. Rep last row until work from beg measures 5 ins [12.5 cm], ending with a WS row.

Small Basket Only
  1. **Next row: (RS). (Fold line). Ch 1. Working through back loops only, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  2. Next row: Ch 1. Working through both loops, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  3. Rep last row until work from beg measures 5 ins [12.5 cm], ending with a WS row.**
     
  4. Rep from ** to ** twice more.
     
  5. Next row: (RS). (Joining row).
     
  6. Place foundation ch behind last row with WS of work tog. Ch 1. Working through both thicknesses, 1 sc in each sc across. Fasten off.

Medium Basket Only
  1. Next row: (RS). (Fold line). Ch 1. Working through back loops only, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  2. ***Next row: Ch 1. Working through both loops, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  3. Rep last row until work from last fold line measures 10 ins [25.5 cm], ending with a WS row.***
     
  4. Next row: (RS). (Fold line). Ch 1. Working through back loops only, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  5. Next row: Ch 1. Working through both loops, 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  6. Rep last row until work from last fold line measures 5 ins [12.5 cm], ending with a WS row.
     
  7. Rep from *** to *** once more.
     
  8. Next row: (RS). (Joining row).
     
  9. Place foundation ch behind last row. Working through both thicknesses, 1 sc in each sc across. Fasten off.

Base
  1. Ch 23 (46).
     
  2. 1st row: (RS). 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook. 1 sc in each ch to end of ch. Turn. 22 (45) sc.
     
  3. 2nd row: Ch 1. 1 sc in each sc across. Turn.
     
  4. Rep last row until work from beg measures 5 ins [12.5 cm], ending with a WS row. Do not fasten off.
     
  5. Join Base to Sides: Place lower edge of Sides behind Base with WS of work tog, aligning corners of Base with fold lines and joining row of Sides.
     
  6. Next rnd: (RS). Ch 1. Working through both thicknesses, work 1 rnd of sc around all 4 sides of Base. Join with sl st in first sc. Fasten off.

Finishing
  1. Apply fabric stiffener to Baskets following manufacturer’s directions. Fold top edge to RS as shown in picture.

Checkerboard place mat (crochet craft)

Use your favorite colors and this free pattern from Bernat Yarns to crochet a contrasting checkerboard placemat.  These placemats are the perfect way to add a quick and easy burst of color and your own style to your kitchen.

Measurements:
Approx 14 x 18 1/2" [35.5 x 47 cm].
Materials:
  • Bernat Handicrafter Cotton (Solids: 50 g/1.75 oz) or (Ombres: 42.5 g/1.5 oz) or yarn of your choice.
    • Main Color (MC): 5 balls.
    • Contrast A: 5 balls.
    • Contrast B: 1 ball.
  • Size 4.5 mm (U.S. 7) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge.
Gauge:

20 sts and 15 1/2 rows = 4" [10 cm] in pat.
Pattern: 
Note: Wind small balls of the colors to be used, one for each area of color in the design. Start new colors at appropriate points. To change color, draw new color through last 2 loops of previous color as indicated.
With MC, ch 78.
1st row: (RS). 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook. *(Ch 1. Miss next ch. 1 sc in next ch) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next ch.** 1 sc in next ch. With A, 1 sc in next ch. (Ch 1. Miss next ch. 1 sc in next ch) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next ch. 1 sc in next ch. With MC, 1 sc in next ch.* Rep from * to * twice more, then from * to ** once. With MC, 1 sc in last sc. Ch 1. Turn.
2nd row: *With MC, 1 sc in next sc. (1 sc in next ch 1 sp. Ch 1. Miss next sc) 4 times. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp.** 1 sc in next sc. With A, 1 sc in next sc. (1 sc in next ch 1 sp. Ch 1. Miss next sc) 4 times. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp. 1 sc in next sc. Rep from * to * twice more, then from * to ** once. With MC, 1 sc in last sc. Ch 1. Turn.
3rd row: *With MC, 1 sc in next sc. (Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next sc.** 1 sc in next sc. With A, 1 sc in next sc. (Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next sc.* Rep from * to * twice more, then from * to ** once. With MC, 1 sc in last sc. Ch 1. Turn.
4th to 12th rows: Rep 2nd and 3rd rows 4 times more, then 2nd row once. Ch 1. Turn.
13th row: *With A, 1 sc in next sc. (Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next sc.** 1 sc in next sc. With MC, 1 sc in next sc. (Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp) 4 times. Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in next sc. Rep from * to * once more, then from * to ** once. With A, 1 sc in last sc. Ch 1. Turn.
14th row: *With A, 1 sc in next sc. (1 sc in next ch 1 sp. Ch 1. Miss next sc) 4 times. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp.** 1 sc in next sc. With MC, 1 sc in next sc. (1 sc in next ch 1 sp. Ch 1. Miss next sc) 4 times. 1 sc in next ch 1 sp. 1 sc in next sc. Rep from * to * once more, then from * to ** once. With A, 1 sc in last sc. Ch 1. Turn.
15th to 24th rows: Rep 13th and 14th rows 5 times more, ending with join MC, ch 1. Turn.
25th row: As 3rd row. Rows 2 to 25 form pat.
Cont in pat until work from beg measures approx 14 ins [35.5 cm] ending with a 12th row of pat omitting turning ch at end of last row. Fasten off.
With RS of work facing, join B with ss to lower right corner of Place Mat.
1st rnd: Work 1 sc in each sp along each side of Place Mat, working 3 sc in corners. Join with ss to first st.
Next rnd: Working from left to right, instead of from right to left as usual, work 1 sc in each sc around. Join with ss to first sc. Fasten off.

Beautiful Oven Mitts (crochet)

Crochet your own oven mitts to match the rest of your kitchen with this free pattern from Bernat Yarns.  These beautiful oven mitts are quick and easy to make and are also useful.

Size:

To fit average adult’s hand.
Materials:
 
  • Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Twists (340 g/12 oz) or yarn of your choice. 
    • 1 ball of #42116 (Country Twists).
  • Size 9 mm (U.S. M or 13) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge.
Gauge:
7 sc and 8 1/2 rows = 4" [10 cm] with 4 strands of yarn.
 
Pattern:Mitts (make 2):
With 4 strands tog, ch 18. Join with sl st to form a ring.
1st rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each ch around. Join with sl st to first sc. 18 sc.
2nd rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to first sc.
Rep last rnd 6 times more.
Shape thumb gusset:
1st rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. (2 sc in next sc) twice. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. Join with sl st to first sc.
2nd rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 2 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. Join with sl st to first sc.
3rd rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 4 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. Join with sl st to first sc.
4th rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 6 sc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc. Join with sl st to first sc.
5th rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 9 sc. (Place marker for thumb). Miss next 8 sc. 1 sc in each of next 9 sc. Join with sl st to first sc. 18 sc.
6th rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to first sc.
Cont even until Mitt from beg measures 9" [23 cm].
Shape top:
1st rnd: Ch 1. Draw up a loop in each of first 2 sts. Yoh and draw through all 3 loops on hook – sc2tog made. 1 sc in each of next 5 sc. (Sc2tog over next 2 sc) twice. 1 sc in each of next 5 sc. Sc2tog over next 2 sc. Join with sl st to first sc. 14 sts.
2nd row: Ch 1. Sc2tog over first 2 sts. 1 sc in each of next 3 sc. (Sc2tog over next 2 sts) twice. 1 sc in each of next 3 sc. Sc2tog over next 2 sc. Join with sl st to first sc. 10 sts. Fasten off. Sew top seam.
Thumb:
With 4 strands tog, join yarn with sl st at marked sc for Thumb.
1st rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in same sp as last sl st. 1 sc in each of next 7 sc. Join with sl st to first sc. 8 sc.
Rep last rnd 4 times more.
Next rnd: Ch 1. (Sc2tog) 4 times. 4 sts. Fasten off, leaving a long end. Thread end through darning needle and draw through rem sts. Fasten tightly.
Loop:
With 4 strands tog, ch 12. Fasten off leaving a long end. Sew loop to foundation ch as shown in picture.


Papercrafted Art Clock (home craft)

Impress everyone with this handmade paper crafted art clock that is easy and  inexpensive to make. Your friend will never believe you didn't buy this paper clock from a fancy department store and you'll love knowing that you have a homemade clock decoration for your shelf or nightstand.
Papercrafted Clock
Materials:
  • STYROFOAM Brand Foam:
    • Sheet, 12" x 12" x 1"
  • Art or scrapbook papers, assorted coordinating colors, several sheets
  • Battery-operated clock mechanism with extra long shank
  • Aluminum wire, 1/8" diameter
  • Silver jewelry findings: chain, 3" length; jump ring; 5 mm beads, four
  • Ruler
  • Paraffin or candle stub
  • Fine-line black permanent marker
  • Pencil, sharp
  • Serrated knife
  • Wire cutters
  • Straight pins, Extra-long
  • Scissors
  • Smooth needle nose pliers
  • Utility knife with sharp blade
  • Low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
  • Paper appliqué glue
  • Tracing paper (Optional)
     
Download Pattern
Steps:
  1. Trace heart pattern outline onto foam sheet, omitting dashed line. Flip pattern over to complete heart. Wax serrated knife with candle stub or paraffin; cut out heart. Smooth rough edges with fingertips. Use pencil to poke hole through center of heart as shown for clock mechanism.
     
  2. Refer to photo/pattern to cover heart with various papers. Trace heart onto wrong side of desired paper for front (landscape scene used here, marked "a"); cut 1 1/4" wide strips to cover sides. Glue strips to heart sides, folding excess over foam edges. Glue front cover in place; let dry.
     
  3. Next, trace, cut, and glue three "b" areas (brown/blue print shown here) to heart. Note: Pattern markings are for first side of heart only, and are only suggested shapes.
     
  4. Trace, cut, and glue scalloped "c" area to bottom of heart. Cut several 1/2"-wide strips from same paper to glue around heart edges. Trace and cut out "d" pattern from rice paper or similar translucent material; glue to heart.
     
  5. Let heart dry flat, pinning papers to foam to secure until glue dries.
     
  6. Use pliers to bend two wire arms and one wire stand as shown. When heart is dry, use glue gun to glue arms to heart as shown. Glue small paper pieces over wire to conceal glue.
     
  7. Cut a 2" square from paper of choice. Fold two edges to meet at center, to measure 1" x 2". Wrap paper around top, straight edge of wire stand; glue paper ends together, allowing wire to pivot freely. Hold heart upright on work surface to ensure proper placement of stand. Glue paper ends only to back of clock, below hole for mechanism; let dry.
     
  8. Glue one end of chain directly to foam below top of stand. Add jump ring to free end of chain and join to stand, connecting it just above intersection of wire ends.
     
  9. Follow manufacturer's instructions to insert clock mechanism. Glue beads into foam surface to mark quarter-hour positions. Purchased clock face or numerals may also be used.

Mosaic Seashell wreath (summer craft)

Seashell crafts are becoming increasingly popular and make excellent bathroom decor or beautiful decorations for your beach home. The mosaic technique for this seashell wreath project sets it apart from many other sea shell wreath ideas.  Try something different!
Mosaic Seashell Wreath
Materials:
  • STYROFOAM™ Brand Foam:
    • Wreath, 12" x 2 1/4" x 2"
  • Light blue acrylic paint
  • Mosaic pieces (repurposed/broken china plates and ceramic tiles)
  • Pencil
  • Assorted seashells
  • Acrylic spackling
  • Wire hanger
  • Serrated knife
  • Paraffin or candle stub
  • Work gloves
  • Ruler
  • Disposable container
  • Rubber spatula
  • Flat paintbrush, medium
  • Container of water
  • Natural sea sponge
  • Clean, soft rag
  • Hammer
  • Tile knippers
  • Wire cutters
  • Six mosaic tile leaves
  • Old bath towel
  • Extra-long straight pins
  • Low temperature glue gun and glue sticks
Instructions:
  1. Wrap plates and tiles, one at a time, in old towel. Place towel on hard surface, like concrete sidewalk, and rap contents smartly with hammer. Do not hammer repeatedly or you risk disintegrating mosaic pieces. Check inside of towel periodically and remove pieces of desired size; wear work gloves at all times when handling broken items. Be sure to remove all shards from towel or discard towel entirely to prevent accidental cuts.
     
  2. Use glue gun to secure mosaic pieces, including leaves, to foam wreath in pleasing design. Use tile knippers to cut some pieces to size as needed. Fill in open spaces with shells or other interesting items. For large shells, use serrated knife to hollow out spaces in wreath so shells sit firmly, as in center opening. Refer to photograph as placement guide.
     
  3. Follow manufacturer's directions to mix spackling "grout" in disposable container until smooth and spreadable. Add a drop or two of acrylic paint to tint grout slightly.
     
  4. Apply grout to inner edges of wreath using spatula; be sure to push grout into spaces between mosaic pieces. Use flat paintbrush to spread grout around shells. Smooth grout as much as possible as you work. Let set a few minutes, then gently smooth using damp sponge. Rinse sponge often in fresh water. Use wet paintbrush to remove excess grout from shells and tight spaces.
     
  5. Use spatula to work grout into spaces between mosaic pieces on outside edges and front of wreath. Use damp sponge to wipe away excess grout and to smooth edges.
     
  6. Let grout set up slightly, then wipe face of mosaic pieces again with damp sponge. Let dry completely. Use clean, soft rag to polish mosaic pieces.
     
  7. Use wire cutters to cut 12" length from coat hanger. Fold wire in half and twist ends together, creating small loop at each end. Use pencil to poke two small holes in top center back of wreath and glue wire ends into holes. Dip straight pins in glue and insert into foam on angle through wire loops.
     

Starfish dishwash (crochet)





0This easy crochet pattern   mimics the phenomenal color changes in our friend the starfish, so you can keep a momento of the beach without getting sand between your toes.
 
Starfish Dishcloth

Materials:
  • Lily® Sugar‘n Cream® Stripes (2 oz / 56.7 g; 95 yds / 86 m)
  • 21010 (Natural Stripes) 1 ball
  • Size 5 mm (U.S. H or 8) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge.
  • 13 sc and 14 rows = 4" [10 cm] gauge
Instructions:
 
  1. Chain 2.  1st rnd: 5 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  2. 2nd and 3rd rnds: Ch 1. 2 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to fi rst sc. 20 sc at end of 3rd rnd.
     
  3. 4th rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 2 sc. *Ch 9. Working in back loops only, 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook and each of the next 7 ch. Working in both loops, 1 sc in each of next 4 sc. Rep from * 4 times more; ending last rep with 1 sc in each of last 2 sc. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  4. 5th rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in fi rst sc. *Miss next sc. Working in rem loops from previous rnd, 1 sc in each of next 7 sts. 3 sc in next st. Working in both loops, 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 7 sc. Miss next sc. 1 sc in each of next 2 sc. Rep from * 4 times more, ending last rep with 1 sc in last sc. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  5. 6th rnd: Ch 2 (counts as hdc). *1 sc in each of next 8 sc. (1 sc. 1 hdc) in next sc. (1 hdc. 1 dc. 1 hdc) in next sc. (1 sc. 1 hdc) in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 8 sc.** Draw up a loop in each of next 2 sts. Yoh and draw through all loops on hook - sc2tog made. Rep from * 3 times more, then from * to ** once. Miss last sc. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 2.
     
  6. 7th rnd: Sl st in each of next 2 sc. Ch 1. 1 sc in each of next 9 sts. 2 sc in next hdc. *(1 sc. 1 hdc. 1 sc) in next dc. 2 sc in next hdc. 1 sc in each of next 9 sts. (Yoh and draw up a loop in next st. Yoh and draw through 2 loops on hook) 3 times. Yoh and draw through all loops on hook – dc3tog made. Rep from * 4 times more. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  7. 8th rnd: Sl st in next sc. Ch 1. *1 sc in each of next 10 sc. 2 sc in next sc. *(1 sc. 1 hdc. 1 sc) in next hdc. 2 sc in next sc. 1 sc in each of next 10 sc. Draw up a loop in each of next 3 sts. Yoh and draw through all loops on hook – sc3tog made. Rep from * 4 times more. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  8. 9th rnd: Sl st in next sc. Ch 1. *1 sc in each of next 11 sc. 2 sc in each of next 3 sc. 1 sc in each of next 11 sc. Sc3tog. Rep from * 4 times more. Join with sl st to fi rst sc.
     
  9. 10th rnd: Sl st in next sc. Ch 1. *1 sc in each of next 12 sc. 2 sc in each of next 3 sc. 1 sc in each of next 12 sc. Sc2tog. Rep from * 4 times more. Join with sl st to fi rst sc. Fasten off .
     

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Firecracker Cake

Cake5
Firecracker Cake
Ingredients
  • White Cake Baking Mix
  • Red and Blue food coloring
  • White frosting of choice
  • Sprinkles
Instructions
  1. Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Generously grease the inside of a 12-cup fluted bundt cake pan.
  2. Make cake mix according to packaged directions. [b]Tip:[/b] [i]To cut down on fat, substitute the oil with applesauce.[/i]
  3. Pour 1 cup batter each into two separate bowls. Stir in desired amount of red food coloring in one bowl and blue food coloring in another. Mix well.
  4. Pour the red batter into the bottom of the pan and spread it out evenly with the back end of a spoon.
  5. Gently pour the white batter over the top of the red batter covering completely. If needed, use the back end of a clean spoon to spread out the batter.
  6. Carefully pour the blue batter over the center of the white batter. The blue batter does not need to completely cover the white batter. In fact, it looks best if you pour the blue in the center of the white and not have it spread out.
  7. Bake according to cake package directions or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
  8. Remove from oven and allow to cool 5 mins in pan before inverting cake onto baking rack to cool completely.
  9. Meanwhile, evenly divide frosting into 3 separate microwavable bowls. Microwave one bowl of frosting on high for a few seconds until frosting is of a drizzling consistency. Stir in a few drops of blue food coloring until smooth. Using a spoon, drizzle frosting back and forth over cake creating a striped pattern. Repeat with second bowl using white frosting, and third bowl with red food coloring.
  10. Light sprinkle the sprinkles for garnishment.
  11. Let stand at room temperature until frosting is set. Transfer to a clean cake plate before serving.
To celebrate, let’s eat some cake. But this isn’t any ordinary cake. It’s a 4th of July Firecracker Cake! The perfect festive dessert to entertain a crowd on Independence day!
 
All you gotta do is use a pre-made white cake baking mix (or if you are a made-from-scratch-kind-of-gal, use a white cake recipe of your choice). Make the cake batter as usual, then separate one cup of batter into one bowl stirring in red food coloring until desired color is reached. Scoop another cup of batter into a separate bowl and stir in blue food coloring until desired color is reached.
Cake2
Next, we’re going to layer the batter. Start by pouring the red batter in the bottom of the bundt cake pan. Give the pan a little tap and shake to smooth out the batter. Then add the white batter making sure to entirely cover the red batter. And lastly, pour the blue food coloring over the white batter. The blue batter doesn’t need to cover the white batter. In fact, when your cake comes out, it looks better when you don’t.
Cake3
Bake according to your cake mix instructions. Look how beautiful the cake came out! A little puffier than I wanted, but it’s still moist and beautifully set.
Cake4
Lastly, divide your frosting up into three equal parts. You’ll want to “melt” your frosting in the microwave for a few seconds on high to make it of a drizzling consistency. Mix red food coloring in one bowl, blue in another, and with a spoon or fork, drizzle the frosting over the cake, zig-zagging back and forth as you go to form a striped pattern. Throw on a few sprinkles and you’ve got yourself a 4th of July Firecracker Cake! \
So cute. So fun. So festive.