Mormon Life - Crafts tag

2012 LDS Primary Mother's Day Gift Idea

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:09:00 -0600

source: sofiasprimaryideas.blogspot.com

This is an activity for primary children to do with their "special lady". I've said it before, but I'll say it again. I don't think kids should ever feel bad on mother's day if they don't have a mother.

{Lifestyle} Fab Five: Balloontopia

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:04:00 -0600

by Alexa Justesen
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Balloons just scream (and sometimes pop) fun. Here are five ways to get extra creative with them.

Ring in spring with some color by way of balloon craftiness.

Photo from Disney's Family Fun

Yarn eggs:

Using graft glue mixed with water, soak yarn and apply to a blown up balloon, criss-crossing as you wrap it. Let the glue dry overnight, and then pop the balloon, peeling it away from the yarn as it deflates.

Photo by Quirky Momma

Balloon drums:

Using old cans, stretch a balloon over the top of the can, double layering if you would like, and secure with packing tape.

Photo by Bakerella

Balloon bowls:

Melt chocolate chips, and dip small balloons into the chocolate. Set on wax paper and allow the chocolate to set. Once it has hardened, pop the balloon and peel it away from the chocolate bowl. Then fill it with ice cream!

Photo by Design Mom

Balloon banner:

Choose your favorite balloon colors and blow them up to equal size. Using strong thread, sew it through the base of each balloon knot in any design you would like. Then hang on a wall or doorway.

Photo by How Does She?

Balloon wreath:

Using a straw or Styrofoam wreath base and greening pins (found in craft stores), pin deflated balloons to the wreath in any design you would like.

{Lifestyle} Fab Five: Things to do with Used Glass

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:44:00 -0600

by Emily McClure
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Glass is beautiful, and if you have extra laying around, we found some beautiful ways to use it.

Photo from Treasure Again.

Try this inexpensive and classy way of lighting up your garden at night, or make your own jar lights by fitting a solar lid into a jar.

Photo from Natural Home and Garden.

Use old light bulbs as hanging flower pots.

Photo from Lushlee.

Make a “vase frame.”

Photo from Garden Drama.

Have some old marbles? Drill holes in your fence and fit them in for a sunny day.

Photo from Design Sponge.

Make use of an old cream soda bottle and use it for plant decoration.

{Lifestyle} Fab Five: Most Popular

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:10:00 -0700

by Kate Ensign-Lewis
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: These are five of our most popular pins on the LDS Living Pinterest page). It's no wonder they're loved - they're fun and useful.

We've had a lot of fun populating our Pinterest page since it went live a few weeks ago (you can view it at pinterest.com/ldsliving). Here are five of our most popular pins. Make sure to pop over and see what else we've found!

Photo from Curbly

15 awesome and adorable uses for Mason jars

Photo from Baby Space

Lovely idea for documenting a baby's beginning

Photo from The Curvy Carrot

Henri's French Onion Soup - can substitute white grape juice or vinegar/water combo for white wine.

Photo from One of a Kind Gifts

A binder with all the documents and emergency information you can grab at a moment's notice.

Photo from Shabby Apple.

A beautiful one-piece suit. Can it be? (Makes me think of M&M commercial with Santa - "They do exist!")

Model LDS temples--Lego and wooden--built in Mormon homes

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:40:00 -0700

source: deseretnews.com

Mormon Life says: What a cool hobby this man has. Andrew H. Johnson has four models of Mormon temples in his home.

James Holmes has one of the Salt Lake Temple he built as a freshman in his high school geometry class. It took him and a partner 40 hours to fashion since it had to meet strict geometric standards as well as resemble a world famous icon.

It resides in the library of East Lincoln High School in Denver, N.C.

{Lifestyle} Ultimate Guide: Winter Crafts for Kids

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:18:00 -0700

by SarahJo Ciotti
source: MormonLife.com

The best parts of being a kid are the endless energy and imagination. Give them pipe cleaners and craft glue and they’re creating masterpieces; though sometimes after a few months of being cooped up during the winter they need a little spark to get them going. Here are a few craft ideas to keep little hands occupied.

Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeders
With a spread of peanut butter and a sprinkling of seeds, this easy craft will keep kids who love the outdoors glued to the windows as they watch birds grab a quick bite for lunch.

Button Artwork
Finally, a use for that box of mismatched buttons! These works of art will look terrific on the refrigerator or even on a nursery room wall.

Pipe Cleaner Creatures
Tigers, chameleons, and squirrels, oh my! These adorable creatures may be found climbing all over the house after a few days with your wild animal.

Popsicle Puzzle
Whether you use family photos or magazine pictures, this little craft is fun for kids to make and play with for hours after.

Colored Pasta
Does your little one’s macaroni necklace need some color? Helping create colored pasta will be just as much fun as creating with the pasta after!

Painted Toast
That looks good enough to eat! Turn an everyday snack into something unexpected with paint-your-own toast!

Glow-in-the dark Jell-O!
A little tonic water never hurt anyone, and making jello cutouts with this stuff will make a classic dessert new and exciting!

Slime
Stretching and squeezing this sludge will create squeals of laughter, and kids will love to help create this monstery-goo.

Here are a few assembly-required projects that can create hours of entertainment for you and your children!

Indoor hopscotch
Getting those wiggles out will be like 1, 2, 3!

Puppet Theater
With some fun-colored fabric, tension rods, and a little imagination, kids will have fun creating little plays for friends and family with this new puppet theater!

PVC Playhouse
With this sturdy structure, creating a fort will be easier on you and the furniture!

Fabric roads
Simple to make, set up, and store, fabric roads keep little cars from veering out of control!

Neighbor Christmas Gift Ideas

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:04:00 -0700

by Alysha Cauffman
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: One of the most magical parts of Christmas is the opportunity to give. We’ve helped make gift-giving simple and affordable this season by sharing our top Christmas neighbor gift ideas. Gather your family, vote on your favorites, and make some magical Christmas memories together.

That’s right, our #1 neighbor gift idea is No Gifts. As fun as it is to give and receive Christmas gifts from neighbors, we wanted our #1 idea to be one that truly encompasses the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. This idea could take a little planning on your part, but the rewards could be the greatest.

 Instead of giving neighbor Christmas gifts, agree as a neighborhood not to. Use all of the money that would have been spent on each other towards a charitable cause.

 Here is an example of a possible invitation for a neighborhood caroling night:

 “Instead of giving neighborhood gifts, 
Together a family’s hearts we will lift. 
Use that money to fill your shopping cart 
With toys and food, a gift from the heart. 
One family will start the caroling tradition 
Singing while on a neighborhood mission. 
We’ll arrive on your doorstep singing a song, 
Grab your family and join in, you’ll come right along. 
But before stepping out and starting to sing
Don’t forget your charitable donation to bring. 
To the next door we’ll carol and add to our crowd 
We’ll add and we’ll add ‘til we’re incredibly loud. 
Finally we’ll stop for a neighborhood treat, 
At the Cauffmans’ home we will mingle and greet. 
Although our fingers and toes may be freezin’ 
We will capture the true spirit of this special season.

"Please join us as our neighborhood carols for a cause on December 15th. We will start caroling at 7 o’clock and pick up your family sometime shortly thereafter. We plan to finish at the Cauffmans’ home for treats around 8 o’clock. Thank you for being a part of something bigger this year as our neighborhood grants a special family’s Christmas wish. Think of the smiles…"

At first glance, it is easy to look at a towel as a most ordinary object. Have you ever stopped to think that for thousands of years, the towel has been used for many wonderful purposes? For example, the mother who wipes the tears of a child to soothe an emotional or physical hurt, the physician who binds the wounds of a bleeding patient, or the woman in her home wiping her hands as she moves from task to task.

Perhaps the most significant use of the towel happened nearly two thousand years ago when our Savior, only hours before He hung on the cross, took an ordinary towel in His loving hands and dried the feet of His disciples. This simple, loving act personifies the selflessness and loving service we seek to give during our lives. It illustrates that an ordinary thing like a towel, in the right hands, and with a giving heart, can lighten another’s load. As with every action performed by the Savior on this earth, His act of service reminds us that simple day-to-day kindnesses are the Savior’s way to bless and comfort.

Tag idea: “This towel is given with love and with the hope you will do works of goodness with it as the Savior did so many years ago. May the absorbing spirit of the season blot our problems, soak up sorrows, wipe away difficulties, and may your holidays be shining and bright!’

Doing the dishes for your neighbor? What could be a better gift than that? Deliver paper plates with a tag saying, “Don’t let your dishes pile up this busy holiday season. Let our family ‘do the dishes’ this week!"

Batteries are essentials on Christmas morning. Your neighbors will appreciate this practical gift!

Tag idea: “Hope you have enough energy to make it through the holidays! Merry Christmas!”

The best gifts are always simple, useful, and inexpensive. Try this easy idea: transparent tape. We all need it, especially at Christmastime. Decorate it or simply put the rhyme on it.

Here’s the poem that can be attached to it:

"Christmastime is often a rush,
With so much to do and no time to hush.
We hope this tape on the fridge in full sight,
Will keep you home from the store one more night!"

Cute, huh? But here’s what makes it ingenious: hot glue a magnet on the back so that it never gets lost because it’s on the refrigerator. We love this.

Our dollar store has the dispenser that is solid on the back so it’s easy to glue the magnet on. Dispensers with an open back wouldn’t work as well, so keep that in mind when you’re buying your tape.

We keep our tape on the side of the refrigerator all year and never have to scramble to find it. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

We love giving this gift. Not only that, we’d love to receive this! This no-calorie gift is practical and fun to receive, and you can use any type of soap.

Tag idea: “We wash you a merry Christmas, we wash you a merry Christmas, we wash you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!”

Attach to a bag of M&M’s a tag that says the following:

“As you hold these candies in your hand and turn them you will see,
The M become a W, an E, and then a 3.
They tell the Christmas story, it’s the one I’m sure you know.
It took place in a stable a long, long time ago.
The E is for the East, where the star shone so bright.
The M is for the manger where baby Jesus slept that night.
The 3 is for the Wise Men bearing gifts and so they came.
W is for worship—Hallelujah, praise His name.
So as you eat these candies, or share them with a friend,
Remember the meaning of Christmas . . . It’s a story that never ends.”

Spread some love this season with holiday heart attacks!

You’ve probably seen paper “heart attacks” around Valentine’s Day, but why not show your neighbors some love at Christmas time? Make a bunch of Christmas-colored hearts with your family and write little notes to your neighbors on them. Then stick them on the front of their door for a fun holiday heart attack surprise!

Do you often take the opportunity to tell your friends and neighbors how grateful you are and that you “take note” of how much they do for you? Christmas is the perfect occasion for gratitude and recognition, and this is the perfect avenue.

Everyone can use a cute note pad. We got ours at a craft store for a dollar, and it has a magnet on the back (added plus). Remove the cellophane and personalize it by being the first one to leave a note for your friend.

Christmas is always so busy, so why not take all the hard work you did in the summer and make Christmas a breeze? We took gallons of cherries and made them into Christmas gifts in July, so when the holidays arrived we were already prepared.

Tag idea: “Don’t let the season get you in a jam. We hope this helps keep your Christmas cherry and bright.”

If you’re feeling ambitious, take your jam with a loaf of bread or some rolls. Too busy for any of the homemade stuff? Buy the jam, decorate it, and you’re good to go!

These are so great for cold toes after sledding or a snowball fight. You just pop them in the microwave for a couple minutes, put them on your cold toes or hands, and—aahh—instant warmth. They are also great for sore muscles.

Tag idea: “Stay warm and toasty this holiday season. Merry Christmas!”

To make: Sew a pouch, fill it with wheat or rice, and sew it closed. I used a washcloth for my material and added a ribbon embellishment, but you could use any fabric. (Be sure not to use ribbon with wire in it—for obvious reasons.)

Clean and cover any type of can that has a lid (baby formula cans work great) with festive scrapbook paper or wrapping paper. Grab your favorite cookie recipe and start baking with your family.

Fill your Christmas cookie cans (to the brim please!) and deliver to smiling neighbors and friends.

Dinnertime is crazy, especially during the holidays. Relieve your neighbors one night by ‘making’ them dinner: a frozen meal. If you have enough time, you can make a day of it and make a lot of frozen dinners . . . or just buy some. Either way, you can feel good knowing you’ve helped out your neighbor for one night.

Tag idea: “‘What’s for dinner?’ During the holidays we hear this a lot; just heat this [lasagna] until it is hot!”

Attach Christmas tags and bows to a roll of wrapping paper and you have an easy neighbor Christmas gift you know they can use.

Tag idea: “Wrap yourself up in a wonderful holiday season.”

We hope these gift-giving ideas make your Christmas season a little simpler, and hopefully you make some sweet family memories.

Alysha Cauffman contributes to howdoesshe.com, a blog for crafts, recipes, DIY projects, and more.

{Lifestyle} Christmas Crafts for Kids

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:59:00 -0700

by Ashley Evanson
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: 10 Christmas crafts to keep your kids entertained this holiday season.

Photo from Parents magazine Christmas Finger Puppets

Photo from Martha Stewart Snow Globes

Photo from The Other White House Handprint Christmas Tree

Photo from Pepper Design Blog Paper Ornaments

Photo from Back to the Drawing Board Stained Glass Tree Art

Photo from Classic Play Homemade Christmas Cards

Photo from Craft Rookie Footprint Christmas Tree

Photo from Parents magazine Simple Ornaments

Photo from Martha Stewart Peppermint Ornaments

Photo from Macula Paper Toy Elves

The power of Pinterest

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:55:00 -0700

source: MormonTimes.com

Mormon Life says: I, too, have succumbed. And I love it. One LDS blogger wonders “To 'pinterest' or not to 'pinterest'”…Thoughts? I have yet to become truly acquainted with pinterest and can't decide if we should truly meet. I love being creative, but wonder if it is truly worth it. Is the whole pinterest thing is something I should proceed with meeting?! (Note: I feel as though I have succeeded with not letting the cyberworld consume the important parts of my day, and I would like to keep it that way...)”

If you hang around Facebook or blogs or Relief Society activities, you’ve likely heard the buzzword “Pinterest” lately. This “virtual pinboard” lets you find, “organize and share the things you love.” See my techie tip below for how to sign up, but even if you decide not to get your own account, I think, in the words of the above blogger, it is still something you should “proceed with meeting.”

Weekend Craft: 4th of July Cupcake Flags

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:04:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

This craft idea is brought to you by Oh My Crafts.

Everyone loves cupcakes and these cute little patriotic flags complete the yummy frosting on top! All you need are some patriotic papers, toothpicks, and glue to make your cupcakes the talk of the BBQ.

Supplies Needed:
We R Memory Keepers: Yankee Doodles Scrapbook Pad
Oh My Crafts: Acid Free Craft Tape ¼ inch
Jenni Bowlin: Spice Tin Ink
Diamond: Bamboo Forks (by regular toothpicks)

Optional Supplies:
EK Success Punches: Dotted Wave, Ziz Zag Stitch
Tsukineko: Versamark Dazzle Watermark Ink
American Crafts: Zing Glitter Finish: Red, Black
Zing Metallic Finish: Teal, Silver
Stampendous: Patriotic Pair Stamp Set
Marvy: Heat Emboss tool

(Use coupon code LDS10 at ohmycrafts.com to get 10% off supplies needed.)

4th of July Cupcake Flags:

Cut a strip of printed-paper 1½ x 2⅜ inches. Repeat for number of flags needed.
Cut stars and other shapes from paper in the kit to embellish flags. Stickers can also be used to spell out phrases.
Ink edges of flag with matching ink to cover white core.
Wrap one end of flag around the top of the bamboo fork to make creases.
Cut two strips of craft tape about 1¼ inch an place next to edge and then just a space apart. (See photo)
Place stick on outer strip of adhesive and roll on to the other adhesive strip.
Place in cupcake and enjoy!

Optional Embellishment:

Stamp design on flag with Versamark ink.
Sprinkle liberally with Zing powder. Shake off excess powder into creased paper and pour back into bottle. Flick back of flag to remove any remaining powder.
Use heat emboss tool to activate powder and give raised image.

TIPS:

Creasing the flag around the fork before applying adhesive will help to insure the flag goes on straight.

Weekend Craft: Chalk Plates

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:06:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

This craft is brought to you by Oh My Crafts.

Supplies Used:

Chalk Board Vinyl and White Vinyl
Chalk
Ribbon
Adams & Co: Metal embossed tile - lime green and hot pink
Alphalicious Cartridge

(Use coupon code LDS10 at ohmycrafts.com to get 10% off supplies needed.)

Directions:

1. Cut a piece of chalk board vinyl 6x6, place in the center of the tile
2. Using the white vinyl and the cricut cartridge cut saying (size 3/4) stick to chalk board vinyl (pressure low and blade 4)
3. Cut piece of ribbon 12" tie one end to the wire on the back of the tile, and on the other end tie piece of chalk

Weekend Craft: 4th of July Party Utensil Wraps

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:05:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

This craft is brought to you by Oh My Crafts.

Sometimes it’s the little things that friends remember from a party--the attention to detail that makes all the difference. These simple and quick wraps for utensils make it super easy for your guests to go through a buffet line. It's a perfect project to involve your kids with the party preparations.

Supplies Needed:

Oh My Crafts Vinyl: Ruby Glitter & Silver Flake, White Vinyl
My Minds Eye: American Made Collection Pack
Provo Craft: Any cartridge that has a star shape like George or Simply Sweet

(Use coupon code LDS10 at ohmycrafts.com to get 10% off supplies needed.)

4th of July Party Utensil Wrap:

1. Cut a strip of printed-paper 1½ x 4 inches. Repeat for number needed.
2. Cut a star from cartridge approximately 1½ inches (size depends on style of star chosen). Use a blade depth setting of 4 with max speed and low pressure.
3. Weed around stars (remove excess vinyl).
4. Wrap paper around napkin and utensils and seal with star.

TIPS:

* If desired, wraps can be glued or taped together and then the star can be placed in the center of the wrap away from the seam.

Weekend Craft: Father's Day Drink Wraps

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:03:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

This weekend craft is brought to you by Oh My Crafts.

Supplies Needed:

Bo Bunny: Blast Off Collection Pack
Tim Holtz: Distress Collection
Spellbinders: Labels Four

(Use coupon code LDS10 at ohmycrafts.com to get 10% off supplies needed)

“Best Dad” Drink Wrap:

1. Cut one strip of printed paper 2 x 12 inches.
2. Lightly fold end of strip in half and cut a 1¾-inch notch. Repeat on opposite end.
3. Make a 2¼-inch slit in the center of the strip (start slit ½ inch from the “v” of the notch).
4. Use fourth largest scalloped circle (approximately 2½ inch size) to cut medallion from cardstock. Emboss edge and sand edges to reveal core color.
5. Write sentiment in center.
6. Slide opposite end of wrap through notch and attach medallion.

“Awesomest Dad” Drink Wrap:

1. Cut 2 strips of distress cardstock 2 x 12 inches. Overlap edges about ¾ of inch and glue with craft tape.
2. Sand cardstock to reveal the core color.
3. Make a 2½ inch slit in the center of the strip (start slit 3½ inches from the edge).
4. Use the largest circle to cut printed paper and emboss edge according to instructions. Next, cut the second largest circle from cardstock and emboss.
5. Layer both circles together. Outline cardstock circle with black pen.
6. Slide opposite end of wrap through notch and attach medallion.

TIPS:

* Know what kind of bottle you will be using before making slit.
* A plain circle can be substituted for scallop circle.
* Any kind of paper can be used for this project and it can be made for any occasion – birthday, party, visiting teaching, team gift, etc.

Weekend Craft: Wedding Cake Card

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:01:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

Make sure to use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed at Oh My Crafts!

Celebrate wedding season by giving all of those happy couples a special handmade card. This card has it all: pearls, ribbon, and punches combine for the perfect cake.

Supplies Needed:
- Oh My Crafts: cardstock: beach babe; acid-free craft tape; walnut vinyl
- Imaginisce: garden party 6x6 pad
- Bazzill Cardstock: wedding white
- EK Success: zigzag chain; ½ inch circle punch
- Copic Markers: ciao Y 21
- Martha Stewart Punches: footlights, daisy chain
- Sizzix: Tim Holtz Alterations – mini scallop & pinking die
- Viva Décor: cream pearl pen
- Ribbon: general craft supply
- We R Memory Keepers: corner chomper

Wedding Cake Card:
1. Cut pink card base 9 ¾ x 6 ¼ inches. Score in half and fold.
2. Cut pink print 6 x 4 ½ inches. Adhere to front of card base.
3. Cut large rectangle from butterfly white paper 1⅞ x 3⅝ inches. Punch top edge with footlights punch.
4. Cut medium rectangle from striped white paper 2¾ x 1½ inches. Punch top edge with footlights punch.
5. Cut small rectangle from satin white paper 2 x 1½ inches. Punch top edge with footlights punch.
6. Punch (3) ½-inch circles from stripe paper.
7. Punch zigzag chain from satin paper.
8. Punch daisy chain from satin paper.
9. Punch border scallop from Sizzix die – mini scallop.
10. Using the light yellow Copic marker, lightly color all punch pieces for accent color if desired. (See tip)
11. From Cricut cartridge “Tie the Knot,” cut cake plate from solid pink cardstock. Use blade depth 6, max pressure, 3½ inch size and medium speed.
12. Assemble cake by layering the scallop to bottom of largest layer, dots to largest cake layer, zigzag to middle layer, and daisy chain to smallest layer.
13. Adhere completed cake to pedestal.
14. Adhere cake to front of card.
15. Tie white bow and adhere to top of cake.
16. If desired on the inside of card, cut a flourish from Cricut cartridge “Tie the Knot” about 1½-1¾ inches from walnut vinyl. Use a blade depth of 4 with low pressure and medium speed.
17. Weed excess vinyl and remove centers. Using transfer tape, lift design from liner paper and transfer to inside center of card.
18. Round corner edges with corner rounder or pair of scissors.
19. With pearl pen, fill in the 2 small holes in punched design at the top of each layer. On the bottom scallop, place 2 vertical dots every other scallop. Let dry.

TIPS:
The accent pieces can be colored any color to match the wedding colors. Because the wedding Bazzill paper has a special coating on it, the ink of the Copic marker does not seep through.

Weekend Craft: Gift and Money Cards

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:02:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

We have so many occasions where we might give a gift card or some money: weddings, birthdays, graduations, recognition for a job well done, etc. The concept of this card can be adapted for any occasion with just a simple change of paper.

Supplies Needed:

Oh My Crafts: cardstock: white, blue, purple, acid-free craft tape
Fancy Pants Design: Lilac House and To the Moon Collection Packs, rub-ons
Glitter Ritz: Cool Highlights and glitter magnet, Be Creative tape
3 L: foam squares
Copic markers: Ciao V15
Martha Stewart: scoreboard
My Pink Stamper: Everyday Life
Pink By Design: Simply Everything
Martha Stewart punches: Cherish and Bubblebath
Spellbinders: Labels One S4-161
Fiskars: trimmer

(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed.)

Gift Card Holder:

   1. Trim double-sided paper to 10¾" x 4".
   2. Make one score at 3½" and the next score line 3½" from the first one. Fold on score lines.
   3. Insert right section of card into trimmer and line up from the last score line (closest to right side) on a diagonal to the opposite corner. Once trimmed, fold on score line to make pocket. Use the acid-free craft tape along the bottom of diagonal section and glue together. Ink edges with matching color.
   4. Trim a 1" or 1½" piece of contrasting paper for the belly-band. Fold around entire card with the ends matching in the middle on the top with a 1" overlap.
   5. Cut a 3¼" square of dark cardstock and punch corners first and then edges with Martha Stewart punches.
   6. Cut a 2" square of light cardstock and die cut bracket shape using Spellbinders Label One. Apply rub-on to bracket.
   7. Mount the light colored cardstock (with foam squares if desired) to dark cardstock. Then attach cardstock layer to belly band.
   8. For inside cover, depending upon card, apply sticker or cut 2 more bracket shapes and layer. Stamp with sentiment. Use a quickie glue pen to trace around bracket and then apply glitter. Shake off excess.
   9. If desired, place Be Creative tape just barely away from diagonal edge. Remove liner, cover with cool highlights. Shake off excess and rub finger over glitter.
10. Stamp sentiment on diagonal pocket.
11. Color glitter line in with Copic marker.
12. Slide belly-band over card.

TIPS:

     Outline stickers or brackets to give a little more dimension.
     Craft tape is very strong and great for holding pockets in place.
     Covers can be embellished even more.

Weekend Craft: Graduation Cards

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:10:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

Whether its elementary, high school or college graduation, the season of recognizing academic achievement is upon us. These cards can be made in quantity quickly; and, because they are handmade, they mean so much more.

Supplies Needed:
- Oh My Crafts: vinyl: white, metallic silver; cardstock: white, black
- Provo Craft: Cricut Expression; cartridge: Simply Sweet, Wild Card, and Happy Graduation
- Doodlebug: Create-a-Card, sugar-coating glitter
- Tombo: mono liquid adhesive
- Fiskars: trimmer
(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed.)

Graduation Card:

   1. Follow the cutting chart for each object to be cut.
   2. Cut white circle from smooth cardstock. On inside of card, place a small line of glue around circle. Adhere circle to glue.
   3. Once dry, place another line of glue around the inside edge of cut out circle on the front side and smear with finger. Sprinkle glitter over glue and tap off excess.
   4. Cut out black circle from smooth side of cardstock.
   5. Cut 3 caps from white vinyl and weed and pick centers out. Use transfer tape to lift design from liner paper and then burnish onto black circle.
   6. Apply foam squares to back of circle and center over white circle with glitter.
   7. Cut "Class of" out of white vinyl. Weed around design and then pick out centers. Use transfer tape to lift design and position below scalloped circle to the left. Burnish in place and remove transfer tape.
   8. Cut "2011" from white vinyl. Weed, pick centers, transfer to the bottom center of card.

Thank You Card:

   1. Cut large "Thank You" from white vinyl. Weed, pick centers and transfer to center of card using transfer tape.
   2. Cut small thank you from white vinyl. Enter 2 spaces after spelling out the word thank you. This will give the extra design space needed for phrase. Repeat 3 more times.
   3. Weed, pick centers and use transfer tape to position phrase across the top of the card. Burnish.
   4. Cut 2 graduation caps – the smaller one for the front of the card which is placed near the “u” and “k”. The second cap is larger and is placed on the back flap of the envelope. Weed, pick centers, use transfer tape to move. Burnish.

TIPS:
It only takes a light pressure on the transfer tape to adhere vinyl to paper. Too much pressure might result in tearing of the paper when removing transfer tape.

Weekend Craft: Mother’s Day Gift Wrap

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:10:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

Our moms do so much for us every day that it’s nice to remember them with something that we have put a little bit of ourselves into. This simple yet elegant wrapping paper with handmade ribbon and bows provides just the right touch.

Supplies Needed:

Basic Grey: Sweet Threads
Oh My Crafts: Bazzill coordinated cardstock
EK Success: Martha Stewart punches
Elizabeth Craft Designs: Glitter Ritz and Glitter Magnet
My Minds Eye: colored twine
Tombo: Mono Multi Liquid Glue
Tim Holtz: tiny attacher, tiny tags and tabs
Fiskars: trimmer
Provo Craft: Yu-du Paint
Reynolds: freezer paper
Craft supply: tissue paper
Iron: dry heat

(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed)

Wrapping Paper:
   1. Tear off a piece of freezer paper the size of tissue paper.
   2. Tightly crumple one sheet of tissue paper and then spread out flat.
   3. Heat iron on medium-high heat – absolutely no steam!
   4. On a heatproof surface, lay tissue paper on top of waxy side of freezer paper and iron. Keep iron moving slowly across the tissue paper until the wax starts to melt and adheres the tissue to the freezer paper. When the wax starts to melt, tiny wrinkles will appear.
   5. Set aside and let cool.
   6. Squeeze out some paint onto a paper plate or non-stick mat.
   7. Gently press stamp into paint and slide around in paint until thoroughly covered.
   8. Stamp onto tissue paper.
   9. Repeat until pattern is complete.
10. Paint washes off with warm water.

Paper Ribbon:
   1. Choose desired paper to go with wrapping paper. Punch entire sheet of paper to make bow and ribbon.
   2. With liquid glue, overlap edges about ½ inch in the middle and glue together, matching the design of the punch. Only glue what is needed for ribbon.

Bow One:
   1. Each length of bow will be determined by the size of the box being wrapped. For most bows, it will take between ½ and ⅔ of a strip. Save all remaining pieces.
   2. Make a round loop, and with the remaining piece, loop the strip over and back under the center loop. Staple together.
   3. Make another separate loop to match the other side and slip under the center loop and then staple.
   4. Use a complete strip and make 2 loops (the outer edges come together in the center), staple in the center.
   5. Place the top 3 loops over the 2 loops just made and staple in the center.
   6. Make ribbon as in step 2 above.
   7. Use the ribbon to “tie” the package and place bow in the center and glue down using a generous amount of glue. (See tip)

Bow Two:
   1. Punch an entire 12 x 12 sheet of paper to make a bow with multiple layers. There should be enough to make ribbons for tying around a small package.
   2. Separate 4 strips for the first layer of the bow. Loop the ends to the center and staple. Repeat with the other 3 strips. Then layer the first 2 strips in a cross and staple. Repeat with the next 2 strips and rotate just a little so that you have a perfect circle of loops.
   3. Make the next layer the same way, except use 4 smaller strips.
   4. For the center, use half as much ribbon as the middle layer and only 2 strips to make a ball that is glued in the center. (See tip)

Bow Three:
   1. Determine length of strip for bow by looping strip to make a circle.
   2. Cut 4 strips of punched design to the same length.
   3. Loop strip to make a circle and staple ends.
   4. Loop second strip over first circle, forming a cross.
   5. Continue looping each strip over the previous one and staple. Make sure the layers are spread out in a circle before stapling.
   5. Glue down in place. (See tip)

TIP: Use a pair of tweezers to hold the bow in place while the glue dries.

Weekend Craft: Cinco de Mayo Decor

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:05:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

These easy decorations for Cinco de Mayo will make you look like party planner! Adding a little vinyl to items you already have makes them look new and picture-perfect for a fun night with family and friends.

Supplies Needed:

Oh My Crafts Vinyl: Caribbean Blue, Persimmon, Hot Pink, Maize, and Black
Provo Craft: Cricut Expression,
Cartridge: Plantin, Doodlecharms
Fiskars: trimmer
Target: utensil caddy, drink basket

(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed.)*

Utensil Caddy:
   1. Follow the cutting chart for each of the 3 designs. (The cutting chart for drink caddy can be found in this article's photo gallery.)
   2. Cut out design using chart.
   3. Weed around designs and pick out centers.
   4. Trim piece of transfer tape to size of design. Remove backing and apply to design. Burnish.
   5. Gently lift transfer tape and design from liner.
   6. Apply to caddy and burnish. Start design on side by handle. Be sure to keep design level. Match ends and continue around caddy.
   7. Repeat steps above for each layer.

Drink Bucket cutting chart:
   1. Cut out design usingdrink bucket cutting chart. (The cutting chart can be found in this article's photo gallery.)
   2. Weed around designs and pick out centers.
   3. Trim piece of transfer tape to size of design. Remove backing and apply to design. Burnish.
   4. Gently lift transfer tape and design from liner.
   5. Apply to drink bucket and burnish.

Tips:
   1. Slightly overlap zig zag border when joining pieces. You may need to shift the zig zag up or down a little as you go around the drink bucket to compensate for the curves.
   2. Cut an extra zig zag to use when piecing together the beginning and end.
   3. Alcohol inking can be added to vinyl to give dimension and pattern to the vinyl (for instructions on how to ink, see last week’s article).

*The Oh My Crafts warehouse store will be open on Saturday from 10 – 4 p.m. Located at 1499 West 105 North, Orem, UT. Mention this coupon to get a discount on great prices!

Weekend Craft: Spring Bouquet

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:07:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

Chipboard flowers never wilt and they always look great. This fun, little bouquet of daisy-like flowers is perfect to brighten any corner of your house or office. Even better, make this sweet bouquet to give to a friend or your mother so they know you are thinking of them.

Supplies Needed:

Doodlebug: Plain & Simple Chipboard Flower Bouquet, Petite Prints, green
Tim Holtz: alcohol inks--at least 8 colors (more if blending colors). Colors used: Sunset, Peach, Purple Twilight, Eggplant, Raspberry, Wild Plum, Shell Pink, Pink Sherbet, Lemonade, Sandal, Sunshine Yellow, Hazelnut, Lettuce, Pesto, Pool, Stream, blending solution and ink applicator
Tattered Angels: misting mat
Clearsnap: Smooch Spritz: green
Oh My Crafts: Oasis Blue vinyl
Provo Craft: Cricut Expression, cartridge: Songbird
Making Memories: ribbon spool: orange
Marvy: heat emboss tool (optional)

(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed.)

Flowers:
   1. Ink one small and one large flower (drop a few dots of color on felt pad and dab quickly using an up/down motion) in each of the eight colors chosen on misting mat. Wipe excess ink off mat before it dries. If it does dry, a little Windex will remove the ink.
   2. Set aside to dry. Repeat with a new color and new felt pad until all flowers are colored.

Buttons:
   1. Ink button centers in Sunshine Yellow and Sandal. Let dry.
   2. Ink edges of buttons.

Grass:
   1. Separate white grass on mat and mist with Smooch Spritz. Let dry.
   2. Turn over and spray remaining white pieces until desired level of green is reached.

Vase:
   1. Trim a piece of Petite Prints to 9⅞”. It may be necessary to trim an additional amount from paper so that if fits just below the lip of the vase.
   2. Curl paper around into a tube and insert in vase. Adjust paper as needed.
   3. Follow directions that come with kit for inserting flower stems.

Vinyl:
   1. Cut out phrase using chart found in this article's photo gallery.
   2. Weed around letters and pick out centers.
   3. Trim piece of transfer tape to size of phrase. Remove backing and apply to phrase. Burnish.
   4. Gently lift transfer tape and phrase from liner.
   5. Apply to vase and burnish.

Ribbon:
   1. Tie ribbon around vase and arrange tails.

TIP:
Make sure stems and grass are completely dry before handling. Use heat emboss tool to warm up stem if a bent stem is desired. Be careful not to heat too much. Remove heat and bend into shape.

Weekend Craft: Nesting Place Cards

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:05:00 -0600

by Oh My Crafts
source: MormonLife.com

Place cards are fun way of decorating your table for that most special meal with family and friends. These cute, little nests are filled with tiny eggs and grass that are handmade.

Supplies Needed:

Viva Décor: Pearl Pens, assorted colors
Bazzill: cardstock, assorted colors
Doodlebug: Petite Prints, green
Faber-Castel: Journaling Pitt Artist Pens, brown
Sizzix: Big Shot
Spellbinders: nesting ovals, small
Martha Stewart: fringe scissors
Tattered Angels: misting mat
General Craft: small nests, paper clips, invisible tape

(Use coupon code LDS10 to get 10% off supplies needed.)

Eggs:
   1. With steady pressure, gently squeeze a small amount of the pearl onto the misting mat, shaping into an egg as you go. Keep the tip at an angle while piping out the egg.
   2. Dry at least 2 hours before trying to remove.
   3. With a crafting spatula, gently lift from mat when dry.

Grass:
   1. Cut grass from petite prints with fringe scissors. Crumple strands up tightly and shake loose.
   2. Divide equal amounts of grass for each nest. Press into bottom of nest.

Name Card:
   1. Die cut a Spellbinders nesting oval die and then emboss (follow directions with die for the kind of die cutting tool you have).
   2. After embossing, write name across tag using the brown journaling pen with a chisel tip.
   3. Unbend a small paper clip halfway and tape to back of tag; insert bottom of clip into grass.

Tip:
Make sure eggs are completely dry before removing from mat. Pipe small dots around border of tag with pearl pens for more decoration.