Rosy Red Buttons

point of view {love}!!

2012-01-27T06:00:00.003-07:00

Wahoo! A craft post! I know it's been forever. :) And what better way to begin again than with POV? This month is LOVE! Perfect timing for February.

Go and check out these awesome projects:

Darling burlap heart bunting from Jonie at Just Between Friends

Cute ruffled heart pillow from Amy at Ameroonie Designs

Perfect heart embellishment from Meg and Steph from DIY Divas

DIY Photo Pillow Heart Prop from Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (Here!)

Chic heart decor from Michelle at A Little Tipsy

Love this darling quilt art at Gwenny Penny

And now for mine.

DIY Photo Pillow Heart Prop!

It's really really easy. Like easier than I could handle, so I got distracted and played with the little. A lot. She's getting huge! We celebrated her 1st birthday last week. I still can't believe it. And there I go again, all distracted.

The first thing you will do is lay out some fabric and then fold it back on itself so that there are four layers of fabric, with the main fold at the bottom, and the fold you made at the side.

Then you are going to go back to elementary school and cut a heart. Just like they showed you. Remember?

So when you unfold it, you have a perfectly symmetrical heart, and two layers at that.

Pin right sides together and then sew along the edges. Leave a small opening.

Stuff! I used about a large bag of Poly fill, the heart I made is nearly three feet across.

Fill it so it looks nice, and then hand sew the little opening. Pretty simple.

And voila, a nice heart pillow. Really this part is super easy, now you get to do the fun part.

Take pictures of your littles on it! For those who are more into photography, you will have seen things similar to these in a lot of newborn photos this year, so now you can make your own! And if you're not so much, how cute will this HUGE heart pillow be on a little girls bed? Just saying....

And! Have you seen the homemade valentine cards going around? Like this?

Ok, they aren't JUST like this, but its all the rage to do something in a scrapbooking program or photoshop and use those as their valentine to pass around. Obviously my little is well, too little. So I made them for you. :) (Files are formatted to 4x6)

To download the horizontal file (it is a png, so can layer over any photo in pretty much any editing program) click HERE.

To download the vertical file, click HERE.

Hope you enjoy!

Alright, have your own 'love' themed project to share? Come link them up over at Gwenny Penny!

Thanks for stopping by, go share your projects! Can't wait to see them. :)

Have a wonderful weekend!

photo session giveaway!!

2012-01-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

CioCo Photography is doing a 1,000 fan giveaway! Giving away a full family session, plus other really awesome prizes! Go check out the giveaway here!

oh {laws}

2011-12-29T11:10:00.000-07:00

I'm giving up even apologizing, because I already know I'm super lame. :) So I've missed you all! Thanks for all your support, and I promise that once the new year is in swing, I will have some fun projects. Until then, enjoy this delicious Ryan G crafting image. ;)

Have a wonderful Thursday!

point of view {BURLAP}!!

2011-10-28T06:00:00.002-07:00

It's time for POV! And I LOVE the theme this month BURLAP, and there are some fun projects out there, so check them out here:

Easy ruffled DIY canvas from Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (you are here!)

Darling burlap art from Leanne at Organize and Decorate Everything

Great gift embellishment from Michelle at A Little Tipsy

Cute burlap flower bag from Amy at Ameroonie Designs

Seriously awesome burlap turkey at Gwenny Penny

Wonderful subway art table runner from Angie at The Country Chic Cottage

On to my project....

Ruffled Burlap Canvas!!

So super easy and it makes a fun and unique display in your home.

Recently I have started a home studio for my company CioCo Photography. In the process of doing said studio, I knew I needed to have some of my work displayed, but I wanted it done in a less traditional way than I've seen. So I had some images printed off in 8x10's. You can do whatever size you want really. I then went to Walmart and bought different varieties of canvas- some stretched, some just the straight.

On the stretched ones I just painted the sides. The staples look uber ghetto, but they work. I could have taken more time and really cared about them, but I am just not that kind of girl. So ghetto they are.

I adhered the images to the canvas with mod podge on the back, and after it dried I put it on the front as well to give it a matte look. I then spread them out to dry.

For my newborn canvas', I got 16x20 stretched canvas' and then just mod podged the back of the picture to the canvas to give it a clean look. I put them up on the wall, but decided the straight out staples were a little too ghetto, even for me. I didn't want to paint them. So I though, I love ruffles, and I love burlap, so voila, a project was born.

I cut strips of burlap to go around the frame from scraps I already had. I suppose you could buy burlap to make it long enough so that you just have one strip (less ghetto) but I was going cheap.

I then started hot gluing the burlap around the canvas, gathering and gluing as I did. No sewing required. Then when my husband got done ~~playing starcraft~~ doing his masters homework, he came to help. I took this picture to have proof that he did. I didn't realize the flash was pointed right at his face until I saw this:

And then had to take a picture because ~~I'm kind of a sadist~~ I thought it was a little funny.

And here she is. Yes, all these photos have been awful because it was night and flash was required.

So here is the other canvas all by its lonesome in the early morning. It will be the next one once I go find some more burlap.

Aw, doesn't she look tons better? It will look great once the other is up also. The whole studio is kind of cremes and natural tones and textures.

And here are the others. My little is on the left, I can't believe how big she is getting! For the flat canvas' I just hot glued some hemp string on the back on each corner to hang. Hemp is kind of technically just strands of burlap, so it works right? Awesome.

So go make your own little burlap wonder! And when you do, link it up HERE! Or have a burlap project made and you want to show it off? LINKY PARTY is HEREERERERERE. Really go link up, I'm super excited. ;)

a photo {giveaway}!!

2011-10-26T12:12:00.001-07:00

Oh boy, I'm the worst. I know it. You know it. But the good news is there is a light at the end of the tunnel and I'm almost finished packing in the last photo sessions. And to celebrate that, plus the recent 800 fans I now have on facebook, CioCo introduces:

To enter the giveaway: GO HERE.

Not required, but you would be awesome: Like CioCo's facebook page here.

Remember, the more entries the better your chances! I'm happy to give one or THREE sessions away. :) So share with your friends through email and Facebook or twitter, directing them to this giveaway. I'll love you forever! Most likely. Have a great day! I hope you win!

Giveaway Ends 10/30/11. Winner will be drawn randomly. Well a computer will do it, I'm not into cutting up little pieces of paper and putting them in a hat and such.

And from my most recent session in the studio:

Yep, my own little is now 9 months old. Yikes! Where does the time go!

So go enter and win a session for your little ones! (Mini sessions are also good for a family of 4-5)

point of view {fall} featured!

2011-09-27T13:24:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had an amazing weekend! Thanks to everyone who linked up over at the link party for Fall POV! You are all awesome and there were so many fun projects. Loved the patchwork mug rugs from Living My Sweet Life. Seriously so cute! Go check them out, they are awesome.

Thanks again to everyone, have a great Tuesday!

point of view {FALL}!!

2011-09-23T06:00:00.001-07:00

Oh hey! It's me! Remember me?! No? Oh.... *awkwardly walks away*

It's time for POV! I love this time of year and wish Fall would SLOW down because here in Utah it doesn't last long. The theme this month is FALL and there are some awesome projects so check them out!

Easy ruffled leaf headband from Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (you are here!)

Awesome silhouette art from Leanne at Organize and Decorate Everything

Beautiful candy apples from Michelle at A Little Tipsy

So cute bead board pumpkins from Amy at Ameroonie Designs

A fall porch design from Jonie at Just Between Friends

Darling wall decor from Stephanie at Always Just a Mom

Delicious and beautiful cookies at Gwenny Penny

I had a lot of fun with my project this month. I love the boho look that is going around and I love fall, so combining the two was just WONDERFUL. (creepy emphasis included)

I saw a crocheted headband a while back that had leafs one after another in it. I liked it, but thought it would be so much cuter if it had some dimension and pattern to it. So I picked out some materials I had in my stock and got to work.

I didn't pick traditional fall colors because I wanted something a bit different for the leaves. I picked a vintage floral fabric and a dark brown floral fabric. Both were on clearance at Walmart. I stop by that isle every time I'm in there because chances are there will be something great. Walmart really doesn't know whats awesome, so they put it on clearance. I cut a leaf pattern out of it...double sided. Originally I was going to sew the two pieces together wrong sides and flip them right side out. You can do that, but I wanted a more unfinished look to the edges when they wear a bit.

Sew a basting stitch through the middle and then gather with bobbin thread. My first one I didn't back stitch at all, but I found it easier to gather them if I back stiched at the top and then left it open to gather at the bottom.

Sew the ruffle into the leaf permanently, back stitching at both ends now.

And here you have some very lovely ruffled leaves.

I had some cream elastic lying around so I measured it around my own head. I pride myself for having a very average head. Sew the ends, back stiching. I sewed over the end three times to be sure it stays.

Now cut a rectangle out of felt and arrange your leaves how you would like them to look. I then sewed the stem end of each 'leaf' to the felt. I left the other end hanging so it would have a bit of movement in it.

At this point you can glue your felt and leaves to the headband, but I wanted mine to be interchangeable. So I pulled out a clip from some I got at Hobby Lobby and clipped a small piece of felt. (On a side note, you know what I love about blurred backgrounds? It makes clutter look beautiful. I wish my whole house could be seen through a lens...)

I then glued the entire back of the felt and clip...

...and pressed that into the felt backing the leaves. Technically you can do this straight onto the headband, but I wanted it to be interchangeable.

And Voila! Clip it to the headband and you're done. You can make other colors if you glue them to clips and use the same headband.

Your next step is to head on over to your darling neighbors house because heaven knows she looks way better in the morning than I do. ;) Big thanks to K for humoring me. :) The great thing about the headband is it can be boho chic...

...or only a hair clip...

...or a normal headband!

So go make your own! And link them back! I'd love to see them.

And are you ready for the link party?? Tell your friends to join! The theme is FALL and any project under that category or mildly pushing the lines of that category goes. :)

Go LINK UP at Gwenny Penny HERE. Can't wait to see your projects!

And come back for the features next week. Have a great weekend!!

point of view {BACK TO SCHOOL}!!

2011-08-26T06:00:00.006-07:00

Gwen at Gwenny Penny

Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (you are here!)

Leanne at Organize and Decorate Everything

Michelle at A Little Tipsy

Amy at Ameroonie Designs

Duane at Cottage in the Oaks

What is this? An actual craft project? Seriously? I know I'm a slacker. BUT super excited for POV! I'm not going to lie, I struggled with the theme this month. I don't have any kids school age. I do have one husband who is returning to school this fall for his Masters, (holla) but I didn't think teaching how to make a big steak dinner was a good way to coordinate for the 'back to school' theme. Then I remembered I had friends who taught school, and how much they would love a little gift. So instead I enlisted the help of my awesome graphic designer friend Annie, aka Hairy Shoe Fairy (not hairy, not a shoe) to help me come up with something incredible in the tag department. Because hey, who doesn't love gifts? So Annie did not disappoint. Look how cute it is:

And because if I were a teacher, I would want chocolates over apples any day. (Hazelnut Chocolate bar from IKEA for about $.99, cheaper if you buy more than one)

Head on over to Hairy Shoe Fairy HERE to get your free printable tag!! Thanks again Annie!

And head on over to A Little Tipsy here to link up your Back to School project.

Have a great weekend!!

oh....help.

2011-08-12T12:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's been a month over a month since my last post. And yes, I'm the biggest slacker. Kind of...

And yes, this post isn't necessarily crafty. But read it anyway or you can't leave my blog. Serious...the browser won't let you. Maybe.

I seriously don't know how other blogger moms and professionals do it. I seem to be drowning in my 'to do' list, and I feel seriously lame that I can't keep up with the things I used to. I have cut back permanently on my wedding shoots, sure that would give me extra time. It hasn't. Yet.

I guess my question is how do you do it? I want to do EVERYTHING but can't seem to find the time for anything. I feel guilty if I spend too much time on the computer; I feel like I am not spending enough time nurturing my daughter.

Button has this sort of squishy face that she has begun to use, which at times is hilarious and at times is kind of gargoyle looking.

Yep, that's the one.

I assumed she got it from my husband, but I looked in the mirror when she and I were playing in front of it laughing, and realized the face came from me. Rather than be depressed that I suddenly realized I looked like a 1st century statue while happy, I was really overjoyed that something I did was rubbing off on her. Then I was kind of panicked that some of my other less desirable personality traits might be being absorbed. I've since made sure that I control myself when I have sudden urges to be crazy. I am fearful of the day that she can talk, while I don't swear or anything like that, I'm not sure 'awesome' should be used as every other word.

I realize that I know very little about parenting. Button has already face planted thrice (hard) because apparently she 'moves'. She also thinks its hilarious to spit out every bit of pureed food that makes it into her mouth, all over me. She thinks its hilarious because rather than stopping her, I can't stop myself from laughing. She has been taught to raise one eyebrow in a 'How YOU doin' sort of manner. Because it's funny. She gets left at the in laws from time to time because I think taking a baby on vacation or to necessary gatherings is equivalent to pushing bamboo shoots up my fingernails. She is in a diaper most of the day, and usually doesn't get dressed unless its completely necessary we go somewhere. In fact, that kind of goes for me too. Minus the diaper.

BUT, she knows she's loved. And she is. More than I can even express. I never thought motherhood would be like it is. I never thought I'd ever grow so attached to something so gross at times. I never thought a simple giggle could make me happier than an all inclusive trip to the Bahamas. I never thought I could miss something so little so much when I'm away. I never thought that I'd be content laying on my stomach blowing raspberries on hers. I never though I could even do it: be a mother.

But I am. And while I epically fail so many times, the important thing is that I just keep going. I may never do anything perfectly, but I'm perfect at attempting. I look up to so many women who have done so much- many who are stay at home moms, many who are work at home or outside of home moms, many who aren't 'moms' at all. I think that whatever we can or can't do doesn't define us. I believe that it's who we are, who we are attempting to be that does.

I know that there are many trials or problems that we have to overcome, many things that maybe we feel like we can't. Sometimes we feel judged, sometimes we feel overwhelmed, sometimes we feel like we are on top of everything one day and the next we fall off the wagon.

Regardless of who you are or what you aren't, know that you are loved. By family, by friends, but most importantly by God. You are important, no matter how low you feel at times.

Anyways, forgive my ramblings. And forgive my lack of creative blogging. I promise I have been working on things.....ish. I recently redecorated and 'flipped' my parents camper (heck yea baby), made a bajillion headbands for Newborn shoots, and have recently been trying to sew, like really sew. Now that my business is slowing down, I'll finally be able to really start blogging again. So stay tuned! hahaha, please?

Until then here are some squishy and oh so adorable newborns (and headbands) to keep you company.

Sigh...Love this image. Loose rolled flower with pearl center and feathers out the back, super easy! Maybe I should write some tutorials for these...

She is so gorgeous.... diaper cover from Sweet Kiwi Crochet.

I found these little wedding flowers at Hobby Lobby for $.08 a bunch. On clearance. Seriously eight cents. So I clipped them off the stems and glued them to a felt circle with craft pearls in the spaces.

Headband made of dollar store flowers you can buy in bunches at the dollar store, just take the flower of the wire and reassemble with hot glue. Craft pearl in the middle.

Headband made of layered flower and feathers. Simple tutorial for the flower is here.

Love him...

Got these newborn cheesecloth wraps from MomMe Designs.

Hat by Sweet Kiwi Crochet. LOVE.

I got six of these chairs for $15 at a yard sale. Boo ya. We weren't planning on a new dining set, but I guess we are now! We found a table we want to build at ana-white.com, so I'm excited to get the before and after's up, since we will be refinishing the chairs.

The link on how to do this rolled flower is over at Tatertots and Jello, but now I can't find it. Meh. Added some netting as well.

Hope your weekend is fabulous! If you want to hang out over at pinterest, I'm here. If you want to see my fun photo shoots those are here. Hit me up if you have any questions, photography is...awesome. ;)

family {pictures}

2011-07-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

Where is the summer going?? I wish it would slow down or just be summer...forever. Except for the heat. I hate the heat. And when did my newborn become a certified baby? Oh time, please stop.

Hope you are enjoying your fabulous summer! I for one am, hence the extreme lack of blogging. Yep, I'm a slacker, but I already knew this. :)

point of view {shelves} featured!

2011-06-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Luh- UV this pantry redo by Seven Sisters. The patterns and roses make it all vintagey and delicious, while the accessories are just perfect. Off to redo me some pantry...

Thanks to everyone who linked up! If you want to be a part of POV as a guest, please email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. We'd love to have you!

point of {view} SHELVES!

2011-06-24T06:00:00.008-07:00

So excited for Point of View this month!

There are some fun projects so go check them out!

1. Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (you are here!)

2. Michelle at A Little Tipsy

3. Jonie at Just Between Friends

4. Amy at Ameroonie Designs

5. Gwen at Gwenny Penny

Love them all!

My Project: Bread Box Shelf!

(I promise it fits the theme, you'll see) ;)

Isn't it so fun? I found this darling old bread box at the Salvation Army for $4. I LOVE that store.

It wasn't the prettiest, but I saw it's potential. (On a side note, aren't those vintage desks fun? Found at a yard sale! You can see them in action here)

The inside also smelled pretty bad, but hey, it was at a thrift store.

I sanded it down; it only needed a light sanding because the lacquer was thin. I then used Krylon satin spray paint in ivory and gave it a couple of coats. It's wood is a bit weathered because ~~I leave furniture out in the rain all the time~~ it's old, and I could have fixed that with a power sander. However I like the look of slightly weathered wood and little cracks, so I left it.

I also wanted to give it a light glazing, and I heard you could do that with acrylic paint. So I mixed a little of these two with water.

I painted on where I wanted the darker streaks, then I just wiped off with a dry cloth. Then repeated.

My dear and awesome friend Shelia owns every craft 'thingy' imaginable, and I'm super jealous of her craft room, but was grateful she let me use it and cut me some vinyl from her cricut. I need one of those. Bad. Ok, maybe not need, but I figure my wants are pretty close in importance. :)

And voila! Here she sits snuggled next to my stove. However we don't eat a lot of bread in my little family, like none, so the whole purpose of this little box was not for bread. Instead...

... I finally have a 'shelf' for my cookbooks! Their previous location required a little bit of being a trapeze artist to get, so I'm glad they are within 2 ft of my cooking area now. (And don't laugh because I only have two, my husband will certify I am pretty good when I cook. Which is like never. But when I do, I'll need those two pretties!)

The great thing is when I am all done, they get shut away and it makes a great little decor item. I love it! It makes me happy every time I see it. :)

What about you? Have any awesome shelf projects? I can't WAIT to see them! Head on over to

Just Between Friends

for the linky party!!

Also, are you interested in joining POV?? Because we will be featuring a guest participant every month!! To get on the list, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com!!

Next month's theme is SUMMER, so let your creativity fly! Can't wait to see those projects!

feather earring {makeover}

2011-06-03T09:58:00.002-07:00

Feather Earring Makeover!

I had some old earrings laying around that I never wear anymore, one because I don't typically wear plain silver earrings, and second because they are just small and I'm more into big dangly earrings.

For this project you will need craft feathers (mine are from Hobby Lobby, 50% off, watch the sales), hemp from Walmart, craft wire from Walmart and a glue gun and scissors.

I took the longest feather I was using and wired it to the side of the earring.

The next three feathers I used a small dot of hot glue and glued them on top, one after the other.

I then took a small piece of hemp and rolled it together to form a small rosette or what not, and then glued it to the top of the points of feathers.

And voila! Pretty simple to make some fun, hippy earrings.

Don't judge me that the earrings don't match this outfit because on the account that the shirt is way too crazy. I was too lazy to change. Also, I cut my hair. I'm not sure it was the best decision, but meh.

All material I already had on hand, so these earrings for me were free 99. Awesome! So go find some old earrings and make them over!

Have a great weekend and be sure to tell me what you think! Linking to THESE parties this week.
Also, Button is currently in the top 25 of a photo contest of over 620 entries, so it would be awesome if you maybe voted for her here at PB kids if you want. You are all awesome!

point of {view} PILLOWS featured!

2011-06-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

So, so many great pillows were linked up this week! If I could feature them all, I would. But alas, I had to pick just two:

Love this Janey Bird Pillow from Jane of All Crafts. Orange and teal blue are such a cute combo, and I love me some bird appliques. Awesome job!

If pinwheels and bright colors don't say summer, I don't know what does. LOVE the fabric choice, edge and decor on this Spring into Summer Pillow by Pick Up Some Creativity. So darling! It makes me want to go do a picnic. Right now. If it would stop being crappy weather and start being summer. Sigh.

Thank you to everyone who linked up over at Gwenny Penny! This months theme is SHELVES, so get your awesome projects started! I have a fun one that I'm really pushing to fit into the theme 'shelves' but we'll see how it goes. It's kind of a shelf.... ;)

Have a great Wednesday!

point of view {pillows!}

2011-05-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

This week has been crazy! My post didn't go up yesterday, and I didn't even see it till today. Thanks blogger...eesh. I didn't get the chance to make a pillow this month, but head on over to Gwenny Penny to link up your great pillow projects and see the other ones that were made. There are so many good ones! Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

a family in {need}

2011-05-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

Stacy of Not JUST a Housewife is featuring CioCo Photography for a special giveaway!

Head on over HERE to nominate a family or your own that would not be able to afford a custom photography session on their own and really need one, or one with a special story. The giveaway will be up for a week!

meal {chart}

2011-05-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

My cute friend posted a link for a darling meal chart:

Find it here on The Project Girl

She has lots of greats freebies, so check it out!

things {to do}

2011-05-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Been hanging out with Button and Hubs this past week because Hubs graduated this past weekend in Business Management! We are so proud of him. We have one free summer till he starts his masters. I have made some things including a little graduation dress for Button that I'll post. She's growing too fast! I'll also post a tutorial for the headband in the second picture if anyone wants it. Tutorial worthy? Have a great Wednesday! Crocheted Flower Headband by Sweet Kiwi Crochet.

Antique Lamp Supply

2011-05-04T14:39:00.002-07:00

This week I received this box in the mail and I was beyond excited. I was contacted by Antique Lamp Supply to review one of their products of my choice. Antique Lamp Supply was started by antique dealers Lawson, Pauline and Paul Barnes in the early 1950's. Their beautiful replicas are even used in both movie and T.V. prodcutions. They have the most extensive, complete line of quality restoration parts for lamps in America. I had a lot of fun perusing their site and picked the Small Banquet Lamp with Shade. I couldn't wait for it to get here!

They sent me the lamp as well as the Edison Bulb. The lamp was well packaged and came without any cracks or problems, which is great because the shade is a satin pink hand blown glass shade. It's gorgeous.

The first thing that surprised me was the base. It's actually quite heavy being made of brass. It's very sturdy and well made. The ornate mold design is just beautiful.

The shade is hand blown, made with a pie crust crimped edge. I loved it when I saw it on the site, and love it in person as well.

My bedroom has a vintage theme, and the lamp works great in there.

Again, I just love the design.

One of my favorite elements is the switch. It reminds me of a little key.

The lamp is electric, but they also sell oil and kerosene lamps as well as electric adaptors for your own vintage lamps.

I loved the footed raised base.

Knowing me you know how much ruffles rule my world. :) I love the crimped edges and the hand blown shade. The satin finish is really beautiful. It reminds me of one of the lamps in Pride and Prejudice. When I get my dream French Country house, this is coming with me. :)

I absolutely LOVE the Edison Base 'Squirel Cage' Light Bulb reproduction. It is seriously AWESOME.

If you look close you will notice their are threads connecting the top to the bottom so that when it's lit it looks like this:

Wowsa. I absolutely love it. Part of me just wants to leave the shade off so I can look at the light... :)

But I won't because the lamp looks too awesome with the shade. ;)

What a great and high quality product!

After reviewing this lamp for a week, I would highly recommend it. It is high quality, well made and beautifully ornate. I think it would make a wonderful mother's day gift for that special mom or grandma in your life. It would also be great for a birthday gift.

Some of my other favorites from the site:

Library Style Solid Brass Hanging Frame

New Orleans Manor Lamp

Torchier Lamp with Leaves and Berries Shade

Library Lamp with Satin Pink Glass Shade

Head on over to Antique Lamp Supply. You won't regret it. They have beautiful table lamps, hanging and wall lamps, antique light fixtures, lamp products and great reproduction bulbs that are high quality and well worth the money. Order one for that amazing person in your life!

(Which may be yourself, I'm not above giving myself gifts) ;)

Have a great Wednesday!

Disclosure: I was not compensated monetarily for this review above receiving the lamp and bulb. It is a great product!

point of {view} SPRING featured!

2011-04-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who linked up over at A Little Tipsy!

Love this Pussy Willow Wreath by Making Life a Bliss! Such a fun idea and I love how it turned out.

These spring blocks are darling from Happy Little Party. Love the flowers!

Be sure to check out the other five blogs to see if you were featured! Thanks for coming by and have a great Wednesday!

your {help}!

2011-04-25T15:21:00.002-07:00

Photos by Melina Moore. Amazing as always, and if you remember from the giveaway she is offering a discount until May 15th. Book now!

I need your help if you will! Parents Magazine is doing a cover contest where the semi finalists get to go to New York. And since New York is awesome, we'd totally love to go. So if you have a minute, or any desire whatsoever, vote for Button here at Parents Magazine! You guys are the best!

point of {view} SPRING!

2011-04-22T06:00:00.005-07:00

Can't believe another month has flown by! Here are our 'Points of View' for SPRING!!

#1- Darling window art from Michelle at A Little Tipsy#2- A school countdown calender from Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (me!)
#3- Cute vintage hoop art from Gwen at Gwenny Penny #4 Amazing bird nest frame from Stacy at Not JUST a Housewife#5- Happy and fun Candle holder from Jonie at Just Between Friends #6- DIY flower decor from Amy at Ameroonie Designs
Such great projects, go check them out and tell us what you think! Now on to mine:

When I was younger, we ALWAYS made paper chains about 30 days before school ended. We would pin them to the wall and then rip them off as the days counted down. It was the best ever, mostly because summer was coming. I thought a more permanent advent calender would be super fun to make with and for your kids. The best part is that this advent calender can be interchanged with the holidays! Or the family vacations! Or the day you get to be an empty nester! I know how I was as a teenager, it's ok to feel like that. ;)

I first found a board from the 'as is' section at IKEA for $1.50. I was shopping with Jonie from Just Between Friends and we came across a pair. Months ago. I think I was still pregnant.

I knew I wanted 30 countdown days so I measured the board and made small marks where the nails would go.

I used small nails and nailed them into the board.

Then I went to walmart and picked up some magnetic tape and garage sale labels. The labels are in the office department, the tape in the crafts.

Then I awarded myself the 'Mother of the Year' award as my poor neglected baby fed herself and I crafted. At least she's learned to hold the bottle alone, that's teaching right?? Right??

I left a space on the top of the board for the interchangeable holiday sign. You can make the board vertical or horizontal or square, really whatever you want works. I added the magnetic strips to the board.

Then I put them on the little sign so it would stick.

To dress up the labels I used a flower punch I bought at Joann's with a 50% off coupon. I got the scrapbook paper at Sam's Club. I just glued the flowers to the front of the labels so they are hidden.

On the back of the labels I wrote what I assume might be good things for kids school age. I don't really know, and that was WAY too long ago for me to remember what I liked back then. It gives them a fun treat each day, much like an advent calender for Christmas would be.

I'm sure at this point all you vinyl machine owners could whip out some vinyl numbers. I'm not that cool, so I just printed them on the computer and cut them out ghetto style. It's how we roll.

And voila! After some cutting and gluing, you have a simple, cheap advent calender you can switch out!

I plan to make other 'hangies' and signs for the holidays when my kids are older. Who am I kidding, my husband has already asked me to. For him. In fact this calender will be used a little because guess who's graduating?

This guy.

Yep the hubbie's graduating with his BS in Business Management in a few weeks. Wahoo! Just in time to start his masters in the fall. Sigh....

Come back and tell me if you make your own advent calender! I love to see your projects. And as always, I love your comments and followings. I'm pretty sure that last one isn't even a word.

Are you ready to link up your spring projects?? Awesome! Head on over to A Little Tipsy for the linky party! Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!

Linking to THESE parties this week.

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-04-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

Another week and here we are. On a bright note, Point of View is this Friday!! For those who don't know, the theme is SPRING so come back ready to link up and I'll let you know where it is. And don't you worry, I'm cramming in a last minute project so I don't look ridiculous by not having one. Yea. These projects, on the other hand, are quite finished and are awesome!!

Love these blocks by Cherished Bliss. She doesn't give herself enough credit, because I think they are just great and perfect the first time around. ;) I'll probably make these. Soon. Maybe. Soon being a few months or six from now.

Verdant Bents show you how to make a really cute empire waist dress out of a.... (drumroll).....sheet. Serioulsy. No lies. Can't wait to try it!

Love these knock off anthro-bobbies from Sew Much Ado. Really easy to make and such a fun dash classy look.

Hope you are all enjoying your wednesday!! Be sure to grab a button if you've been featured and come back Friday for the Spring link up!!

Contest {Winner}!!!

2011-04-18T08:28:00.001-07:00

According to random.org, congrats to Stacy and Louise!!! Please contact me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com to claim your prize!! You have until Tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. or a new winner will be drawn!

Thank you to everyone that entered. For all of you who did, Melina is offering a 15% discount on any session of your choosing! Go to Melina Moore Memories where you will find Melina's work and contact, or email her at melina.moore.memories@gmail.com. Just mention "giveawaydiscount" when you are booking a session and she will book it with the discount!! You must book by May 15, 2011 however to recieve it, so contact her soon!

Thanks again Melina for this awesome giveaway, and to everyone that entered!!

Win a Photo Session!

2011-04-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that there is one more day to Enter the Melina Moore Memories photo session Giveaway HERE!! Only 3 more people to go before she gives away ANOTHER session!! Enter now!

Friday {Flip}

2011-04-15T03:14:00.002-07:00

Remember to enter the Melina Moore Photography giveaway here for your chance to win a session!!!

SO excited to have Michelle from A Little Tipsy here today! She is super awesome, love her projects and her blog is one of my favorites. Be sure to check it out! Her she is:

Hi There! I am so excited to be here on Rosy Red Buttons today! I love Camilla's detachable coat skirt and her new "canopy bed" is fabulous! She is so talented!

Michelle, from A Little Tipsy here, taking the wheel for the day!

Nope not drunk (what a relief you will not be taking your tour with a drunk driver), I may or may not be a bit clumsy though.

A little about me, I am a SAHM with one crazy 3 year old boy, a 5 month old baby boy, and a big geek for a husband. I love keeping busy and sharing all my projects and adventures whether they be home decor, holiday projects, activities for the kiddos, or discovering how to get permanent marker off granite counter tops. Turn to me for projects you can do during nap time for less money than lunch out.

So, enough about me...here are a few of my favorite projects as of late.

Paper Mache Eggs
with secret ingredient...water balloons

Ruching Re-fashion in 10 Minutes

Flower Monogram Frame
secret ingredient...packing tape

Free Printable Behavior Charts for your kiddos (girl & boy version)

I just started a new link up party for projects that cost $5 or less. I would love to have you come link up and share your projects!

Well, I guess that about wraps things up. Thanks to Camilla for swappin' it up and thanks to you for letting me be your tour guide today. Watch your step on the way out and don't forget to come visit soon!
Thanks again for being here Michelle, go visit her site, you won't be disappointed!

Photography Giveaway!!

2011-04-14T07:46:00.013-07:00

I am so excited to announce Today's giveaway!!! Melina of Melina Moore Memories will be giving away a session of choice to one lucky reader! (Excludes weddings) Melina specializes in beautiful child and family photography, so be sure to find out how to enter below!

Today Melina will be giving away a session of your choice with full rights to printable cd. To enter:
1. Put your name and email in a comment.2. Like Melina on facebook here, come back and in a comment say you did so.3. Look around Melina's blog here, and in a comment come back and say what your favorite post was. 4. Referring a friend to this contest that enters- in a comment say what friend you referredOR4. Tweet, blog, or facebook about the giveaway and in a comment come back and say you did so5. Follow Rosy Red Buttons (button on top left) and in a comment say you did so.
That's FIVE chances to win today and through this weekend!! The contest will close Sunday at 10:00p.m. And to make it EVEN better and incentivize you to refer a friend, for every 25 people that enter, Melina will give away ANOTHER session of choice. How awesome is that??? Melina's work is beautiful and she is so awesome to agree to do a giveaway here!
The session can take place in the Salt Lake or surrounding areas (including Provo). So be sure to tell your friends and enter to win a great session for your family!! (And just so you know how awesome she is, she did my maternity pics here, my birth photography here, and my baby portrait here. Be sure to check out her site and come back Monday to find out if you won!!)

photography {giveaway}!!

2011-04-11T10:14:00.003-07:00

I am ecstatic to announce this week's giveaway!!! Melina of Melina Moore Memories will be giving away a session of choice to one lucky reader! (Excludes weddings) Melina specializes in beautiful child and family photography, so be sure to come back Thursday to enter to win a session for your great family!!

And just so you know how awesome she is, she did my maternity pics here, my birth photography here, and my baby portrait here. Be sure to check out her site and come back Thursday to find out how you can win!!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-04-06T10:07:00.002-07:00

It's Wednesday again! And I actually got a crafty post of my own up this week, aren't you so proud of me? I know you just LOVED all the pics of my kid, all of the time. Admit it. So on to awesome Wednesday-ness:

There are a lot of bow holders out there and a lot of ways to do them. But this may just be my new favorite. Ever. See how it's done on A Very Dandoislion Life.

I could probably kiss this woman. Ok, not really, because it would be a bit awkward. But a shower curtain that looks this beautiful and cost FIVE BUCKS? Done. Really. I'm going to the dollar store as we speak. Head on over to See Kate Sew to check it out.

I really like how simple this skirt was to make... meaning I could probably do it. Maybe. I would love a skirt like this. Also legs that look like that to go with it. Just a thought. Sigh...my daughter better be grateful for what my body went through to get her here. (*snicker) Find out how to make this lovely romantic skirt at dame*design*studio.
Be sure to grab a featured button and thanks for your amazing ideas! If you have a tutorial you'd like featured, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. Enjoy your Wednesday!

tutorial {tuesday}

2011-04-05T12:31:00.003-07:00

I have ALWAYS wanted a canopy bed. With huge curtains and a big fluffy bedspread. Every girl wants to be a princess right? Right? Ok, maybe I'm just lame. But then I married this:

And "this" would have none of that. Absolute refusal to have a canopy bed. So I figured there had to be a way to do a quick, easy canopy without it costing an arm and a leg and being princessy.

So I started with some wooden dowels from Hobby Lobby ($.29 a piece) and some sheer fabric panels from IKEA (two for $5.00) .
I inserted the dowel through the casing. Not. too. difficult.

Then I thumb tacked them to the ceiling. Yep, thumb tacked. Pretty easy, and I'm pretty sure I like it. And hubs hasn't seen it yet, because I figured it's always better to ask forgiveness than permission. Just sayin.

Have a great Tuesday and let me know what you think! Linking up to THESE parties this week.

***UPDATE***
I wasn't fully loving the canopy until I went to IKEA and added two side panals as well, so it's basically a big rectangle at the head of the bed with curtains coming down. LURVE.

Gathering is also a great look. Thanks for stopping by! Comments and followers are most welcome! Love to hear from you!

friday {musings}

2011-04-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

So I know I have been failing in the 'crafty' department lately, but when you have something this fun to photograph and hang out with, can you blame me? Hope you have an awesome Friday, back with some projects next week!

Hat by Sweet Kiwi Crochet.

baby {lifestyles}

2011-03-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

Button's nursery was featured over at Baby Lifestyles! Such a great site, check it out here.

Buttons has been smiling a lot lately which is totally making up for all the sleepless nights....maybe. We love her lots! She's growing up too fast. Thanks Melina Moore for the pic!

Have a great Thursday!

point of {view} SKIRTS featured!

2011-03-29T19:54:00.005-07:00

Thanks to every one that linked up for the skirt party, you are awesome. There were so many good ones, but here are my favorites:

Can you believe this skirt was once a man's old shirt? Awesome. Sisters of the Wild West show you how to make the ruffled skirt from an old shirt, so check it out!

Want a great project to do with your girls? $500 Wedding shows you how to make a skirt for Barbie from a sock. Seriously, a sock.

This cute polka dot skirt for an old utility sink by Organizing Made Fun is such a great idea. It makes such a fun pop in the laundry room.

Thanks again to everyone who linked up! Next months theme is SPRING. So get those projects going and there will be a linky party on the 4th Friday again! Be sure to grab your featured on POV button! Can't wait till next month's POV!

point of {view} SKIRTS!

2011-03-25T06:00:00.002-07:00

So excited to show this month's projects!

#1- A terrific child skirt from Amy at Ameroonie Designs#2- A great bed skirt and pocket organizer from Michelle at A Little Tipsy#3- A detachable coat skirt from Camilla at Rosy Red Buttons (me!)
#4- A fun A-line skirt from Stacy at Not JUST a Housewife#5- A darling spring skirt from Gwen at Gwenny Penny#6- A oh so cute ruffled skirt from Jonie at Just Between Friends
Such a great set of projects! Check out the links for tutorials!My project this month was a Detachable Coat Skirt. Originally I was going to say my inspiration was a tree skirt since you can change it out, but since that pretty much makes as much sense as Darth Vader ballet dancing, I'll just say my inspiration was this picture of a coat I found on the Internet about two minutes ago: I guess it's almost true, since I have seen some pretty coats. Yea. So cool. I've loved the fancy coats I've been seeing around but did not have the large financial budget necessary to purchase one. I also wanted one that was still versatile and could be un- fancy if needed. So I thought, what makes a girl fancy? A skirt. What could make a coat fancy? A skirt. Such deductive logic. So I set out to make a detachable skirt for my coat that's now a little over three years old and I wanted to spruce it up. (You know what my biggest pet peeve is? An uncalibrated lens that makes photos fuzzy...) Anyways, I measured the hem of the coat to know how wide the skirt would need to be. Then I measured on my own leg where I wanted it to hit so I knew how long it would need to be.

I cut the strips twice as long as I wanted it to hit. I just did a black broadcloth, but any fabric you want will work. I also have some grey and white toille I plan on making for this as well. I folded them in half and then seamed the edge. I seamed the ends and then began to pleat the strips.I would have done the same with some lace material I got on clearance from Walmart. However I just folded it in half like I did with the first but instead of pleating it, I folded it over the black strips. Occasionally I'd also glance at my daughter and feel a little guilty the blanket was feeding her. For a second. It passed.
Then I sewed the two on top of each other. I began to hand sew some hooks to the inside of the coat, and some eyes to the 'skirt'.

And voila. A removable skirt for your coat. And super easy! It's great this way too because I didn't have to worry about sewing through the thick wool of my peacoat, and I can interchange with other frill skirts like the grey toille one I plan to make. Some day.
I am a model...you know what I mean? Ha ha NOT. I also added a detachable rosette made from the same lace- just folded a strip in half, baste stitched, and then gathered it. Then I wrapped it in a rosette sort of shape and glued it to a felt back. Since I didn't have a broach pin to glue it onto, I glued it to a safety pin. I'm cool like that.
Know what else was detachable? My wedding train. I designed it that way... apparently I just love hooks and eyes... ;)
Happy Friday!
Now it's your turn. The link party this month will be hosted at Not JUST a Housewife here! Go link up your skirt projects- they can be past projects as well! Then come check out all the blogs to see if you have been featured!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-03-23T12:35:00.001-07:00

Ack! Is it Wednesday already? Now that my to do list usually consists of feed the baby, burp the baby, change the baby, love the baby, play with the baby, feed the baby, feed the hubby and change the baby some more, my days are really flying. Notice cleaning is no where in there, because I've pretty much thrown that out the window. So for now, check out these awesome projects I hope to some day attempt! Maybe. They'll go somewhere between feed and change the baby.

Isn't this nursery wall art from Kara's Korner so incredibly lovely?! I think I would sit and look at it much more than the baby would. It's great too because it totally grows with them. I heart.

When I was dating my now hubby he confessed to me he was a huge nerd. Immediately I thought of some black cape with a light saber tucked away in the back of his closet. However, his nerdiness pertained to video games which is in fact truth, he is a nerd. I'm not going to lie though, I was mildly disappointed when it wasn't star wars- because I secretly heart it. So these light saber pretzel rods from The Cellar Door Stories are pretty much the best. What little boy wouldn't want these at his party??

Want to see the easiest wall art ever? Done. This Styrofoam wall art from Hill Country Homebody are seriously so simple, but such a great idea! Cheap? Check. Easy? Check. On the to do list? Check.

Have a great Wednesday! I love perusing the net for these and having them emailed. Thanks for those who have sent in great projects, if you are interested in having yours featured, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. Feel free to grab a button!

Oh, and don't forget to come back Friday to see 'Point of View' skirt projects and to get the link where you can go link yours up and get featured!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-03-16T06:16:00.000-07:00

So I dusted off my sewing machine and used it for the first time yesterday since a few week's before Button's arrival. I'm not going to lie, it was AWESOME. Mostly I kind of felt guilty because Button is a little fussy/cholicy/refluxy ALL THE TIME so I let a bottle and blanket propping it feed her while I crafted. It was that or throw myself into the trash bin outside, so I opted for the former. I was working on my skirt project and a few others I hope to have up soon. Till then, check out these AWESOME projects (p.s. I like the word awesome):

Aren't these Tissue Paper Cherry Blossoms from Sarahndipities awesome?? These are so going in Button's nursery.

I'm a sucker for anything 'owlish' and these darling softies from Perfect Chance Memories are no exception. I especially love that they are completely vintage- made from her Grandmother's old fabric.

Um, heck yes. This darling button egg on burlap idea from Auntie Lolo Crafts is spectacular! Mostly because it's made of buttons. Which I love. Always. It just inspired me to do something similar...but with a bird. Just great!

Thanks for your awesome projects, be sure to grab a button. I love scoring around for ideas and seeing the ones that have been sent in. Happy Wednesday!

baby blessing {dress}

2011-03-08T11:06:00.001-07:00

We blessed Button at our church on Sunday and it was a great day! I wanted to make her dress, so my mom came down and we set to work. The pattern is one that my mom used to make my blessing dress, so I'm pretty sure no one makes it anymore. :) I had my wedding dress made and so the material is left over from my wedding dress:

I altered the sleeves so they were half sleeves rather than full, then added ruffle layers down the front. It was a project, but I learned a lot.

(This is her monkey face. Blanket by Sweet Kiwi Crochet)

Sorry no tutorial since it was a pattern, but if anyone wants a tut on the ruffle layers or half sleve with ruffle, I'm happy to oblige. I also made the head band out of the same material. Happy Tuesday!
Linking up to THESE parties this week.

point of {view}

2011-03-07T12:42:00.001-07:00

SOOOOO excited to announce a new project/feature every month that I get to be apart of! It's called Point of View: A Creative Collaboration and it will pretty much rock the shizzle. Ha ha I was so born in the eighties. The 5 amazing ladies I get to work with are:

Stacie of Not Just a Housewife
Jonie of Just Between Friends
Amy of Ameroonie Designs
Michelle of A Little Tipsy
Gwen of Gwenny PennyCamilla of Rosy Red Buttons (me!)

You should totally check out their blogs because there are some seriously awesome crafts/projects going on in there.

How it works: Every month there will be a theme that we all craft to, thus 'Point of View' or our take on the theme. Everyone has free reign as long as it some how fits within the theme.

When it happens: The 4th Friday of every month we will post our tutorial on the theme, as well as a link to everyone else's take. The best part?? We want you to be involved too!! There will be a link party that weekend where we will all be able to link our take on the theme also!

So to start it off: this month's theme is SKIRTS. Use a pattern, make one up, refurbish an already made one, add something to a skirt, make a kid skirt or doll skirt, WHATEVER, it really doesn't matter as long as it fits the theme. Then come back and link up your tutorial on MARCH 25. There will be directions for the link party. Then come back after that to see if you are featured! I can't wait for this! I have a pretty fun idea for skirts, so hopefully you will like it! So get crackin on those skirts, I know there will be some amazing projects out there.

Have a very Happy Monday!!

Friday {Flip}

2011-02-25T00:42:00.000-07:00

I am SO excited to have Kristyn with Good Gravy Crafts here today! She has such a fabulous blog and SO many good ideas. You should totally check it out! Here she is:
Happy Friday Rosy Red Readers! I am so happy to be here on fabulous Camilla's blog. I was so honored when she emailed me to do a switcheroo! I am Kristyn from Good Gravy Crafts, I know silly name but it's got meaning but it has nothing to do with turkey or sauce (for the Italians out there or my friend Jenny).

It's from an expression my hubby's cousin uses, whenever she would say it I would chuckle. Now here I am a few years in the blogging world and I have yet to really get myself out there. I am looking forward to "meeting" new bloggy friends and finding inspiration along the way.

Today I am showing you all something brand new....my hubby calls it the "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego Wreath". Do you remember that show?

He does not always "get" what I am doing when I come in the house with things like a 1963 Atlas from the thrift store but I assure him "it's going to be good, don't worry!" He shakes his head and walks away, ha!

Here it is!
My version of a Sunburst Mirror incorporating the Book Wreath that everyone has so wonderfully been making lately.

I love that I happened to get the New England States showing, we are in cold MA!!! It's on our dining room wall and as much he makes fun...I think the hubster loves it. I know my Little Lady is proud, whenever people come over she says, "Wanna see the BIGGEST sun my Mom ever made?"

It was pretty easy to do and I am thinking I may through together a tutorial soon. Now I just have to find something to put on the other wall!

Camilla...thanks so much for hosting me, I look forward to having some Rosy Red Button readers stop by the Good Gravy!

Hope everyone has a great weekend, I am off to go dog sledding! Can't wait! Thanks for being here Kristyn! LOVE that wreath! Be sure to check out her blog here and follow along in her crafting adventures. :) Thanks again!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-02-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Love love this Crochet Ring Necklace from Little Treasures. I can't crochet to save my life, but I at least like to look at it! :) Such a great idea.
This sweet Rag Rug from Shabby Soul is just great. I looked forever for a rug for the nursery, but since my colors are pretty specific I found nothing that would work. I may just be making this. Love her color choice!
So when skinny jeans became popular again I resisted. Mostly because I was living in South America at the time and all the kids wearing them were a bunch of little punks. :) Coming back to the states I was surprised to find it had caught hold for all people, not just emo's. I am not a size 2, or anywhere close, *cough* so I waited. Then finally I bought a pair. And I LOVED them. So did my husband. Finding the right kind of jean to fit is hard, so this Tutorial from I'm Topsy Turvy is genius. Can't wait to try it!

Be sure to grab a featured button, cuz you're awesome! If you have a great idea or project you want featured, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. Have a great Wednesday!

Friday {Flip}

2011-02-18T02:56:00.003-07:00

So excited to have Allison with Fab Rehab Creations here today! Allison has a super fun blog full of AWESOME thrift store finds, and I love me some thrift store. She is also a totally fun person and its been fun to get to know her, so bonus! :) SO jealous of her sideboard...here she is! Hello Rosy Red Buttons Followers, Friends and Readers! An extra special thank you to Camilla here at RRB for inviting me over to her lovely abode!
I’m Allison…new blogger, fun-loving mom of 3 boys, occupational therapist and now, thrifty furniture rehabber (is "rehabber" a word?). I'm the one with hair ;) Although I’m fairly new to Blogland, I am having a blast meeting new friends and checking out gobs of fun and fabulous projects ! I started up the Fab Rehab Creations blog in September 2010 after I fell.in.love with painting, rehabbing and upcycling furniture. I’ve been known to hit up Goodwill and other thrift shops more than once a week “just to check” and see if anything is new… my husband thinks I have an addiction, but because I rarely spend more than $15 for a piece of furniture, he can’t complain too much. Here are a few of my favorite projects:
My "New" Kitchen Table

My first dresser (I heart dressers):
My thriftiest find yet...my beloved $5.00 sideboard

And finally, this little side table:

I have more posts full of thrifty furniture turned fabulous. If you like what you've seen here, head on over to my blog and join the fun! Would love to have you!
Thanks again for being here Allison! Be sure to head on over to Allison's blog Fab Rehab Creations and follow along!

{photography} here

2011-02-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

So if I introduce myself as a sponsor, is that like shameless self promotion? Probably... :) As many of you have probably gathered, I own CioCo Photography that specializes in weddings. I LOVE photography and getting to know people, and my portrait work allows me to do that. Win, win! (It also explains the ridiculous amount of photos I already have of my daughter) ;)

I am resuming work from Maternity Leave in March and would love to photograph you or your family if you live near or close to the Salt Lake City area. I am also available for travel for weddings. I have one opening left in March, and two in April. Check out my website here, and if you mention this post when booking you will recieve 10% off! Thanks for looking!

happy {wednesday}

2011-02-16T15:19:00.002-07:00

Hope you're having a great Wednesday! I am, hanging out with this girl. :)

And for your viewing pleasure:

These commercials make me laugh...probably more than I should. Happy Wednesday!

pretty {things}

2011-02-15T02:21:00.025-07:00

So excited to introduce our newest sponsor Mine for the Making! Kara has a beautiful little etsy shop full of lots of pretty things, like:
This darling Felt Bow. I seriously LOVE felt right now.
This beautiful turquoise and red rosette clip. These colors are so great together.
This darling pink vintage fabric clip. Love.

Kara's shop is darling, so be sure to check it out. She has awesome prices, and what women/girl in your life wouldn't just love a cute hair accessory for a gift, whether it be birthday or just because they are awesome. :) Be sure to head over here!

Friday {Flip}

2011-02-11T02:31:00.027-07:00

Hi All! I know I have been MIA for a bit, which probably won't improve TOO much over the next bit because the wee one has reflux, but I do have some fun, easy projects in the works, so I'll get them up soon! Today though I am so excited to introduce you to Dominique of Craft Couture. I love her blog! Lots of fun giveaways and a great link party, so be sure to check her out! Plus she is super sweet, who doesn't love that? ;) Take it away Dominique!
Hi to all Rosy Red Buttons friends.

My name is Dominique, I'm here today from Craft Couture

& oh so very excited about it. Camilla was so ~~brave~~ awesome

for letting me come over to her blog today.

So here is a little bit about me & my blog...

My wonderful Husband (best hubby ever) & I have

been married for three years this coming April.

I'm a stay at home mom to our little girl, she is our world.

She will be two this May which I can't believe.

My ~~obsession~~ passion is singing just throwing that in there lol.

I started my blog, Craft Couture in January of this year, so last month.

I love doing crafts, anywhere from scrapbooking to sewing. I wanted to share them with people along with everyday things

& my life as a first time mommy.

Here are a few of my favorite projects from my blog so far...

Hair Straightener Case

It's so handy & oh so cute.

DIY "Keep Calm & Carry On" Saying Frame

very easy & fun to make.

Sewing Caddy

so cute & very useful

Sewing Machine Cover Tutorial

keeps those ~~little fingers~~ dust from your machine while it's out

Okay I think that will do :).

I also sell little girl boutique items in a local craft store.
I'm working on opening up a store online.
I'm also adding things for women so if you visit
my blog keep an eye out for that.

I've only had my blog for a month but I'm loving it.
So come on over to hear about everyday things & my first time mommy adventures with some crafts thrown in, even follow me if you like.
Hope to see you there, at Craft Couture. Thanks again to Camilla for letting me take over her blog today, she's awesome along with her projects.
Have a wonderful day!

Thanks so much for being here Dominique! Follow along with her here, and be sure to say hello! Have an awesome weekend!

monday {monday}

2011-02-07T11:16:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder to go over to Sew Dang Cute Crafts and vote for your favorite baby project in round three! So many awesome ones, especially one where she took a queen sized bed frame and converted it into a nursing station/oversized toddler bed. Be sure to vote here!!

Friday {Flip}

2011-02-04T04:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! I am so excited to introduce you to Kara from Mine for the Making. I just love her blog site! She has SO many good ideas and fun things going on, so be sure to check her out!

Hello there Rosy Red Buttons readers! I am so excited to be here today. Big thanks to Camilla for having me : )

My name is Kara and blog over at Mine for the Making.

MFTM is my little spot in blogland where I share tutorials, recipes, home renovation projects, and little bits of our family life. I love me a good garage sale or thrift store find and I am a HUGE fan of dollar store crafting and up-cycling old into new. I am learning how to cook and bake and love to share recipes as I go. I am a beginner sew-er and I love to decorate and re-decorate a room. Organization and lists are an absolute must for this busy momma!

Hair Bows {tutorial}

Hand Painted Signs

Creative with Coasters (dollar store project)

Apple Turnovers (recipe)

Free Valentine Printable

I would LOVE for you to stop by Mine for the Making and say hello! You may even want to browse my etsy shop for unique hair accessories.

Thanks for having me over, Camilla!

Thank you Kara! Kara's blog site is seriously so cute, so go check it out here! Thanks again!

And if you are interested in doing Friday Flip with me, I'd love to have you! Just email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-02-02T03:52:00.000-07:00

This darling arrangement from my awesome sponsor Heather of Everyday Lettering. It's on her personal blog so I won't link over there, but go to her company blog! When you do them like this, the letters are super cheap and you can get and customize your own frames. Just love the rosettes!

Ikea has some not so pretty things, so I love seeing remakes of stuff I can get there, like this awesome votive candle lantern by City Girl gone Coastal. Totally doing this sometime soon, but possibly with elephant silhouettes. Love!

Now I'm not a huge fan of football, but my brothers are. So I grew up playing catch because I had no sisters to play dolls with. Which is kind of a wonder how I only really love girly stuff... ANYWAYS this DIY goal post from My Creative Escapes is such a simple and great idea for all the little boys in your life! I have nephews... so maybe I will make one for them for the summer. Score!

monday {monday}

2011-01-31T10:07:00.002-07:00

I know, I know another picture of my kid. :) I finally got some of her sleeping, unfortunately when she sleeps she also scowls. My hubby says I do the same thing, so there you go. We just love this little girl!

While you're here, go check out the Crafting with the Stars competition at So Dang Cute Crafts. There are some AWESOME decoupage projects this week. Someone even made a back splash out of paper and modpodge in their kitchen. It's amazing!! I'm totally attempting it soon...or later. :) Go and vote here!!

Happy Monday!

Friday {Flip}

2011-01-28T08:01:00.002-07:00

So excited to have Lauren from the Elephant's Trunk here today! The best part of crafting is all the cool people I get to meet and know. So many talents and great projects out there, and Lauren's blog is no exception so be sure to check it out! Plus her blog has the cutest background ever, so really you should see it. I know, random, but Chevron Stripes rock! ;) Here she is:

My name is Lauren and I am so excited to be here! I found Rosy Red Buttons one day and I am so glad I did. I started my blog a little over a year ago and I've had so much fun. My favorite thing about blogging is seeing all the amazing creativity out there and meeting new people like, Camilla.

My blog is called The Elephant's Trunk:

Here are some of the projects that I've done since starting The Elephant's Trunk...

I hope everyone has a great day and I want to thank Camilla for letting me post here at Rosy Red Buttons.

Thank you Lauren! Go check out her projects and follow along with her at the Elephant's Trunk! And if you are interested in playing Friday Flip, email me at rosyredbuttons.blogspot.com!

Thank {YOU}!

2011-01-25T16:13:00.001-07:00

Thank you everyone for your sweet comments on the nursery and the arrival of our little bambino. We have been so blessed! Sorry if this blog is a little sporadic over the next few weeks, I promise I have a really adorable and little excuse. :)

Thanks again! Hat and Diaper Cover: Sweet Kiwi Crochet

monday {monday}

2011-01-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

I'm republishing last Friday's flip, because I kind of took it over with the baby news. :) Check out Jonie's blog, she's amazing!

I'm so excited to welcome Jonie of Just Between Friends. Man this girl can craft. We actually met in college and have had fun being friends post married life.

If you remember these clocks, you'll know we made them together!
You have to check out her blog and say hi!

Take it away Jonie:
I'm so excited to be here at Rosy Red Buttons, and I'm even more excited that Camilla will be taking over my blog! She has so many incredible projects. Have you seen her nursery? Of course you have. I love it! It makes me want to re-do my daughter's room....almost. :) That's a ton of work.
Now, if you don't mind, Camilla, I am going to take over your blog.
Let's get down to the nitty gritty....
I'm Jonie from Just Between Friends. I am married to a man that loves to fish and we have a 17 month old little girl that seems to always keep us busy.I am pretty new to blogging. I started my blog just this last August, and I love it! It has been such a great motivator for me as well as a creative outlet. Some of my favorite projects I've done are:#1. Scrap Wood Shelves My daughter loves to read and I wanted a way that I could store her books without her needing to throw them off the shelf to see the cover. That is how I came up with this idea. She still seems to need to throw her books everywhere, but at least she knows what book she is grabbing before she throws it.
#2. Skirt to Hat Transformation I made this hat for my sister using an old skirt that she was going to throw away. I am really pleased with the way it turned out!

#3. Front Room Makeover I wanted to surprise my husband with a room makeover while he was out of town. I am pretty sure that when I told my husband I had a surprise for him he didn't imagine this. He of course likes the way it looks. (I don't think he would dare tell me otherwise)

One of my favorite parts about this room is this pillow. I made it from the skirt my sister wore at my wedding. You can read all about how I made the pillowshere.

I think that is enough to get you started in my blog. I really would love for you to stop by and follow along in my many crafting adventures.

Thanks so much for having me over! You can have your blog back now :)

Oh, ANYTIME Jonie, you rock! Be sure to check her out here and follow her!
And if you are interested in being apart of Friday Flip, please email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. Thanks again Jonie!

baby {girl}

2011-01-21T11:30:00.002-07:00

She's Here!!!
6 lbs 13 oz. 19 inches Long
Born 1/20 at 8:23 am.

Photos by Melina Moore Memories.

Friday {Flip}

2011-01-21T04:18:00.003-07:00

I'm so excited to welcome Jonie of Just Between Friends. Man this girl can craft. We actually met in college and have had fun being friends post married life.

teensie {booties}

2011-01-20T02:26:00.010-07:00

Aren't these the cutest kimono booties ever?? I made them using a pattern from Home Spun Threads. They have amazing tutorials and patterns... for free! Holla! So go get yourself some. These were completely free for me since I had all the material on hand. I just embellished with a button, and switched up the pattern a little. They took me about 25 minutes, most of which was just trying to figure them out. I didn't use interfacing, because I am WAY too lazy to go to the store for that. Let me know if you have any questions!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-01-19T00:04:00.002-07:00

Well, still pregnant. Boo. ;) In the meantime enjoy these awesome projects from this week!

These AWESOME sweater bracelets from Organize and Decorate Everything. What a great idea!

You know how you can go through life super happy, then you happen upon something that you suddenly need and can't live with out it being put on some space you free up on the wall? Love this version of paint chip wall art from Creative Passage and it just went on that list for me. :)

These darling Be Mine Jars from the Elephants Trunk are such a simple and great idea for valentines! I'm not a big decorator for anything other than Thanksgiving and Christmas, but these just might make their way onto my kitchen counter....with some candy. For our neighbor kids, or me. Yea, probably me.

Thanks again for your talents!! Grab a featured button, and if you would like to have a project featured here, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. Happy Wednesday!

Be sure to check out Everyday Lettering! Amazing deals and beautiful art!

monday {monday}

2011-01-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

I've been bouncing a lot on this:

And doing a TON of this:

To try to evict this:

So I can do a little of this:

So far? No luck. :) I know she'll come when she's ready... but can't she be ready today? Have a great Monday!

Friday {Flip}

2011-01-14T00:10:00.031-07:00

Today I'm excited to start a new game on Rosy Red Buttons. (Ok, I confess it's really not a game, but a blog swap, but calling it a game makes it SO much cooler...) I'm super excited to have Charlie from Attempting Aloha today to take over my blog and amaze you. Because she is amazing. Check her out! Here she is:

Aloha! Welcome to beautiful Oahu. It's sunny and in the 80's today, so pull up a beach towel and play in some waves!
I started my Attempting Aloha blog in October of last year as a way to help me think through the many home renovation projects we have going on in our $.5 mil+ (I'll round down to keep you from having a heart attack from sticker shock at our prices here) 3 bedroom, 1600 sq ft., foreclosure fixer upper. But then I started leaking my crazy crafting endeavors into the blog as well, and it's just been a blast getting to know so many fun bloggers.

If you've ever been to Oahu, you probably experienced the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet. Over 500 vendors with flowers, shells, swimsuits, and all kinds of other wonderful treasures. So in honor of one of my favorite places to spend my leisure time here, I've started Swap 'n' Meet Saturdays! This is my way of getting to know other blog readers and to give my poor readers a break and let them get to know someone new. ;)

As a newbie blogger, I get so excited when I think I have a truly original idea pop up or a knock-off no one has attempted yet. Then I met Camilla and her blog. At first I thought she was stealing my ideas and not giving me credit, and I was a little miffed...then I noticed the dates, and some of them were posted before mine! It was so hilarious!Then I just had a blast looking through her blog and seeing so many things I've either done similarly or have plans to do shortly. We became "kindred spirits" as my other bff Anne (ya know, of Green Gables) would say.
Here are what the Attempting Aloha lovelies are loving the most:
My personalized PB Union Station knock-off clock made from a sad little $3 Walgreens clock:

This set off a chain of clock designs (some of which I still have yet to post!!).

Personalized teacher subway art clock I made for my daughter's teacher at Christmas. :)

And, of course, since I have girls, there's bound to be frilly stuff around. Like my version of the PB Kids lamp (which was also the inspiration for Camilla's nursery lamp!).

And because I'm just a drippy, sentimental kinda gal (don't even get me started on Hallmark commercials...), I went and made a pillow out of my wedding dress and one of my husband's white button-up Sunday shirts. This one was a top 10 pick at the CSI Project in last week's "white" theme.

So if you love girly and ruffles, come check out my blog. There seems to be a lot of ruffles and flowers going on around our house lately!There's also a lot of hammers, nailguns, drills, and other things most girly girls don't dare tackle! And I desperately need help making some decisions along the way, so if you like to put in your 2 cents, I'm in need of those kinds of friends!!

As a special treat for Rosy Red Buttons readers, I'd love to offer free personalization on any of the clocks on my blog to the first 15 readers to leave a comment. And if you're feeling the aloha, go ahead and check out my site when you get a chance! We love tourists. ;)

Aloha,
Charlie

Thanks again Charlie for being here and what an awesome deal! You pretty much rock the world. Go and follow her here, she has amazing ideas! If you are interested in being apart of Friday Flip and blog swap with me, email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com. I'd LOVE to flip with you. Hahahah I crack myself up. But seriously, let's swap! Happy Friday!

The Nursery!!

2011-01-13T00:49:00.015-07:00

I am sure that I am way more excited to show you this then you are to see it. Oh well, you're still looking right? :) Now I just need a baby to put in it...

This is the before. Sorry not the greatest picture, but it's all I have. Originally this was just used as a guest bedroom. I had painted three walls a soft green and was going to do the fourth wall as an accent for boy or girl. Since we weren't pregnant at the time, the wall stayed white. Forever. Yea, real classy. :) And the bed really wasn't always in the position, I promise. It's just pulled back from the wall.

After going through a bit of change in design taste, I knew I wanted the nursery to be gray with a board and batten look. So we set off to make a fake molding. The how to is here.

The theme of the nursery was Birds. Originally I wanted a little more vintage feel, but it ended up coming out really delicate and clean, which I also love. I found the big cage at The Salvation Army and spray painted it white. The other little ones my friend found at Michaels for $1 and used them to decorate my shower. Love them! Gray ribbon is from the dollar store, pink from Hobby Lobby, and the little birds are from the dollar store. A little wider angle of the birds. You'll notice this pic does not have the curtains up yet, so here ya go: You can find the super simple tutorial for these bad boys here. The tutorial for the ruffled table runner is here. A close up of the lamp shade, tutorial is here. Still love it every time I go into the nursery. A view of the left hand corner.
Close up of the modpodged mirror. All the paper was from Joann's, the mirror from the DI. Tutorial here. Shelf when entering the room. Here is the front view:

The bird house I painted and modpodged the top with the same paper as the letters and paint as the murals. The little booties are just cute ones I found, the little rosette purse a gift from her Grandma. The sleigh is her first ornament from Michaels, but I liked it so much I put it in here. The bird is my favorite ornament from growing up. The wreath I made using this tutorial. Yea, I realize I only painted half, but there ya go. The bird ceramic holder thingy is from Ross'. :)

Shelf over crib. Ceramic bird from Hobby Lobby, vase from IKEA, roses from the dollar store, and letters and paper from Joanns.
My favorite part of the room. I knew I wanted a toile bed set, so I looked up how much the fabric would cost me. About as much as this Alyssa Preston design. So I just cut the sentimental and bought it. :) Shelf is a shelf my dad built for me to go over my window in the bedroom when I was 15 or so. It's been repainted to creme. Material is from Hobby Lobby that hangs. The wash bin is from Ross's, with a hand crocheted white blanket my mom's friend made. Letters are from Joanns, sorry you can't see much because they are blurred.
View from the entrance. The changer has a cover over it now. The rocker I recovered and it works perfectly. Tutorial is here. I made the pillow out of coordinating fabric.

I hand made the mobile from coordinating fabrics and it makes me pretty happy. The tutorial is here.

My second favorite part. I bought a pack of flat 16x20 canvases at Walmart and then picked out some paint at Hobby Lobby to coordinate. I used a bird stencil I found online, but the branches are free hand. I made the numbers stencil also just from a font on the computer. Ribbon is from hobby lobby and I just hot glued it to the top corners to make a loop. After hanging I added the little bows over the top.
The nursery furniture. Boy these were ugly before. They rock now though! Read about them here
.
I love this bassinet. It made it through all my parents children, including me. It worked perfectly in the color scheme, and the cover, pad, and sheet are all from my friends bassinet- the ones you can get at Walmart. I just tucked up the other two ruffle layers so it wouldn't cover the basket weave. I made the blanket from fabric I found at Joanns. I just needed two yards, one for each side. Put right sides together and sew a seam, leaving a little area open. Flip the blanket inside out and push out the corners. I sewed a little x right in the middle, then just top stitched around the edges. I tied the bow and sewed it into the corner so it would be secured. Close up of the wash bin. It's actually one of my photography props, but I think it works great here too. :)
I CANNOT wait till she gets here. :) Sometimes I just sit on the rocker like a crazy person waiting. I'm totally in love with her already, so I just need to meet her. :) Hope you have an amazing Thursday! Your comments (and following) are most welcome!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-01-12T00:28:00.005-07:00

Love this tea party table idea from Sweet and Lovely Crafts, mostly because those side table are only $7 at IKEA. What a great idea!

This jersey scarf from Peas and Crayons is super cute and SO easy. It's for sure going on the to do list.

Love these 'wannabe' window dividers from Being Grown Up. I can imagine them going other places besides the window... like between my husband and I on the bed. Seriously. Doesn't he understand I'm a human incubator and his body heat the temperature of the center of the earth cuddling during the night doesn't work? :) But seriously, I love those dividers, so cute!

Be sure to grab your featured buttons, and thanks for being so darn creative! And if I seem a little MIA over the next week or so its because I am heading into the last leg of pregnancy and if lucky am in the hospital getting the little one here. :) Happy Wednesday! Questions or Ideas? Email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com.

Winner!

2011-01-11T00:09:00.002-07:00

Congratulations to Courtney, comment #20!!

Please email me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com to claim your prize from the awesome Heather at Everyday Lettering and Joy Photography. You have until Wednesday @ 11:00 pm mst to do so or a new winner will be announced. And for everyone else remember, if you order from Heather in the next two days, you will recieve $.25 off per letter! Just mention the giveaway in the email! Don't miss this deal! Go here to order.

Reminder!!

2011-01-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder that today is the LAST day to enter the Joy Photography Everyday Lettering giveaway.

Go HERE to enter.

On a side note, I'll be posting pics of the nursery soon! I know this probably makes me a lot more excited than you, but there ya go. :) Be sure to enter the giveaway!

GIVEAWAY!

2011-01-07T00:50:00.004-07:00

GIVEAWAY CLOSED. THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED!

I am so excited for the giveaway today!! Heather from Everyday Lettering will be giving a custom word worth up to $30 to one lucky reader!! Everyday Letters are images that Heather has created out of things that you see everyday in life. She says, ""After seeing similar products in stores priced at over $150 for a small word/name I searched for a way to make it more affordable. I spent over a year collecting pictures of everyday objects and editing them to make them beautiful."

And they are beautiful!

Heather offers the images on their own individual board...

...or on their own individual blocks. They come ready to put out!

This will make a wonderful gift for anybody special in your life. I'm pretty special, so I'd probably gift it to myself. :) One lucky reader will be winning this today!

Heather is giving away a $30 gift certificate AND free shipping so you will be able to pick exactly what you want. In addition Heather is offering $.25 off per letter if you order by Thursday, January 13th for everyone else! Just mention the giveaway when you email her to order!

You have 4 chances to win today:

1. Put your name in a comment

2. Go to Everyday Lettering here, browse around, then tell us in a comment what word you would pick.

3. Tweet, blog, or facebook about the giveaway providing a link back here. Don't have any of those? Email two friends about the giveaway! Then come back and tell us what you did.

4. Become a follower of Rosy Red Buttons and in a comment put follower.

Good luck! The winner will be announced on Tuesday!

And thanks again to Heather for this awesome giveaway!

sweet kiwi {crochet}

2011-01-06T00:14:00.003-07:00

Before I introduce you to my next sponsor, Rosy Red Buttons has been featured on Not Just a Housewife! I just found this blog, and SO glad I did, it is awesome! Thanks again! Love my sponsor Kandice from Sweet Kiwi Crochet! She deserves a humongous welcome because she has humongous talent. ;) (Cheesy I know, but it's Thursday). I have loved Kandice's work forever now (probably because we've been friends for at least that long) and I'm so excited she's sponsoring Rosy Red Buttons. Kandice can crochet pretty much everything. Seriously. I LOVE her new sock monkey hats... ...her darling owl hats.... ...and her ever growing collection of animal hats. Dinosaurs, bees, ladybugs, giraffe's, bears, you name it she'll make it. She also makes crocheted beanies, headbands, and darling rose bands.

You seriously have to check her out. Oh yea. That's right. She makes these bad boys too. She also sells patterns for all you DIY'ers.Head on over to her etsy or blog site for all info!

And don't forget to check back tommorrow for an awesome giveaway from Everyday Lettering! Love my sponsors, so check them out!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2011-01-05T00:08:00.005-07:00

Happy Wednesday! Which means one day closer to my due date... haha I'm pathetic I know. So many awesome projects out there in blog world, but here are some of my favorites:
Darling handmade canvasas from Take off your coat and Stay Awhile... using paper and modge podge. Love them!
I LOVE this cover for a nook from So Scraphappy. Now if someone would just buy me a nook...Oh boy I love this. Like so much. Anything that combines rosettes and white is pretty much the greatest. Check it out on Pink Satin Sashes!

How great is this fabric light switch plate? Custom plates are way more than I even want to spend, so this is a GREAT option. Find the tutorial here on Agape Love Designs and Photography!

Have a project or tutorial you'd love to share? I'd love to feature you! Contact me at rosyredbuttons@gmail.com!

everyday {lettering}

2011-01-04T00:58:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to introduce my newest sponsor Heather from Everyday Lettering! I absolutely LOVE her product and can't believe how creative she is. She is the mom of a darling boy and a wife to a hubby who rocks out in a band, how cool is that! On top of that, she is a very talented photographer, thus the genius behind Everyday Lettering.
Everyday letters are images that Heather has created out of things that you see everyday in life. It makes such a beautiful statement piece when entering a room that can be customized in any way you want. Heather offers the images on their own individual blocks......or on a full board. It comes all ready to put out when you get it!

Heather also offers the images separately, so for all you DIY'ers out there you can make them into anything you want! Images can be framed, hung on string, etc, etc. There are also TONS of options for each letter so you can truly customize the word or name however you want. I have seen custom image art like this go for as much as $30 a letter, so you either have to break the bank for the family name, or get super creative with the word 'Hi'. Heather offers this beautiful product at an EXTREMELY affordable price so you can do lots of words! Be sure to check out all she has to offer at Everyday Lettering.

The best part? Heather will be doing a giveaway of a fully customized letter set to one lucky reader this Friday on Rosy Red Buttons! This would make such a great Valentines, Mothers Day, or Birthday Gift! (Or for you extreme planners, Christmas is only 11.5 months away...) So be sure to come back and visit to find out how you can win!

Thanks Heather for being so darn awesome!! Be sure to check back Friday!

home {made} mobile

2011-01-03T11:37:00.003-07:00

It's Monday! Hope everyone had a great weekend and New Years! I can't believe how time is flying. I feel like I'm on a huge merry-go-round and no one will let me off. Oh well.

Today I'll show you how to make this! I'm pretty particular about how little E's room is going to look, so I knew that I would have to make the mobile for her crib because I knew I would never find anything to match the theme.

My awesome sister in law was great enough to give me the mobile off her son's crib who has now outgrown it. I needed the plastic pieces and even though the mobile was cute, it was all boy. I used the original pieces as a pattern. I measured out the fabric for the piece that would go over the mobile stand.

It curves out at the bottom to allow room for the bend in the plastic. The original fabric piece was actually longer than the piece I cut because the original piece allowed for a lot of bunching on the stand. I didn't want it to do that much so I cut it shorter. I also cute the piece on the fold which is important. I finished the ends of the piece and then I folded and sewed right side together using 1/4 inch seam and then flipped it right side out.

It slid right over the stand and fit perfectly.

For the next part I used the original cover of the mobile for a pattern. Sorry I didn't get a picture. I actually just used one square piece of fabric a little larger than the original piece to allow for the ruffle seam. I cut 4 strips of gray suede leftover from this project and matching this project about twice as long as the square sides. I then used a basting stitch and gathered them in, pulling the bobbin thread.

I then pinned them to the sides and sewed them down.

For the back of the square piece I cut out four triangles matching the corners of the square and pinned them to each corner creating a little pocket. The mobile legs will go in each pocket.

I also sewed the ribbon I wanted for the mobile into the seam and the triangle pieces when I did a top stitch over the top of the square. It looks ~~like crap~~ a little rough when you flip it over but no one will see that so you're good. ;)

For the mobile pieces I wanted little birds so I free handed a pattern out of felt, cutting two pieces. I cut little wings that are petal shaped out of leftover fleece.

Sew each wing where you want it to each of the two pieces. I sewed it right at the top so it would be able to move and appear to be 'flying' when it was stuffed. You could use any pattern you want.

Then take your two pieces and pin them together with the ribbon inset and top stitch. I also put a feather in the back and top stitched over it. Leave a little hole at the bottom and stuff. I used scrap pieces I had laying around to fill them. Then just top stitch over the opening.

For the middle I tied a ribbon to the center of the mobile and glued rattan balls and feathers to give it a fun look. We did have a cat about three days ago and it only took her 2 minutes to sneak into the nursery and have feathers all over the place. I had to replace the feathers on the balls. The cat is now being 'babysat' permanently at our friends. :) At least till the baby is a bit older.

Step back and admire! My friend recently visited and saw the nursery and said the mobile was 'very me'. I decided to take that as a compliment. :)

Let me know if you have any questions and what you think!! I'd love to hear from you! Comments (and followers) are most welcome. Happy Monday! Linking to THESE PARTIES this week!

some {ramblings}

2010-12-31T16:13:00.008-07:00

I saw Jonie had put up some awesome facts about herself inspired by Amy at the Idea Room and Ashley from Little Miss Momma and thought it would be fun to play!

So, if we're going to be bff's here's what you need to know:
1. I am the second of seven children. I married the seventh of seven children. We both have no intention of having seven children. Ever. :)

As a result of being last, Hubby's family is significantly larger than mine. We don't see them all together often, but they're still fun. ;)

Hubby is the only implant thus far in my family. He fits in really well, or maybe my family is just being nice. My family is hilarious. Sometimes I don't know where my brothers get their wit. Parents? Probably.

2. Hubby and I will have our first child to make it through pregnancy in a few weeks. A little girl who will be spoiled beyond all belief I'm sure. She'll be the first grandchild on my side.

3. Hubby and I met in Logan. He had planned on going to school there till he met me, and we got married within a semester, so there was no need for the transfer. :) We were also married there.

4. I got my bachelors degree in 2009 from Utah State University in Political Science and Philosophy. What that has to do with crafting and photography? No idea.

5. Oh, I work as a wedding photographer. Good times.

6. I have lived in South America, Washington DC, and Utah. I like them all for different reasons. Utah is great because I actually can park at the store I want to go to. And have a car.

7. I am LDS. My faith is a huge part of who I am, and a huge part of my marriage. It makes me unreasonably happy and helps me through the hard times. :)

8. I have a fascination with gray.

9. I love to read and my shelves are full of books. I am obsessed with Jane Austen and love Charles Dickens. My wedding dress was even styled after the Austen era. I also enjoy J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. You will also find the Harry Potter and Hunger Game Series there. I have no intention of reading the Twilight Series. The movies make me be satirically witty. Sorry.

10. I was a Cache County Dairy Princess. Yep. For some reason it was big at the time. And then you win you think you are cool because it comes with a crown, tiara, and lots of parades and appearances. That is, you think you're cool until someone reminds you that you are a cow queen.

11. I once met Ted Kennedy in an elevator. That was awkward. I also worked in the same building as Obama and saw him in the hall. This was before the whole 'president' thing. There were no secret service.

12. I am a published poet. Yep that's right, published. You'll find my poem wedged in with a bunch of other 7th graders in a nationwide book. I am COOL.

13. Mostly I just love to laugh.

14. I once was involved in a high speed chase, but not with the cops. We were being chased by some neighbors of a house that we had recently toilet papered.

15. I have self diagnosed ADD. And OCD. I can't sit still very long. I also have to have the pillows on the couch perfectly fluffed. My husband will sit on them and then get up just because he thinks its funny. And I can't watch really thought provoking movies before bedtime. Because I won't be able to sleep because I can't stop thinking about them.

16. I'm kind of a nerd.

17. I think Matt Damon is, like, the hottest man on earth. Next to my husband of course.

18. If I was what I wanted to be in the third grade, I would be a zookeeper. Glad that didn't work out.

19. Kite flying is my favorite sport. Is it a sport? I hope so.

20. I love to meet people. And get to know people. So please leave a comment and tell me about yourself, or put a link to your own post and I will totally come stalk you!! Link up and share the love!

2 minute {curtains}

2010-12-30T10:58:00.001-07:00

I can't believe its already Thursday. Where does the time go? I missed putting up whimsical Wednesday yesterday, but there were some awesome projects so they'll go up next week. I am almost finished with the nursery which means pictures will be coming soon! Yea! Ok, maybe that's more exciting for me than you but there ya go.
Thanks everyone who has commented on my latest projects, you totally make my day! And to all my new followers, you rock. Today I just wanted to quickly post about the EASIEST curtains you will ever make in your life. Or that have ever been made. Ever.

I bought two twin sheets for my husbands and I's Halloween costumes. We went as Aphrodite and Ares the God of War. Yep, here we are:
Such posers... and my husband will probably KILL me if he knows this is up here. Or be really proud of himself. I can't decide which. We had a picture together, but my husband gets bored like, well, like a 5 year old would and he had his costume off after 2 hours. So I was the only one in costume in the pic, which is lame.

So, ANYWAY, I had these leftover sheets from Halloween and decided they would probably do as panels for the nursery. Most sheets come with a wide casing at the top already so all I did was cut a slit on each side of the casing on the back side so the seam and front stay the same. Just cut the slit wide enough in the casing to go over the curtain rod. Then I just draped extra fabric from another project over the top to give it a slight more feminine look. I wanted the curtains to be white to keep the light fresh in the room. The sheets were $4 a piece at Walmart, which is a hecka ton cheaper than buying real curtains or buying the fabric. Plus I didn't really have to do anything, which is a major plus, and just my style... :)Can't get better than that!

Happy Thursday! Let me know what you think or if you have any questions! And I know that I post a TON of baby related things, so let me know if this helps!

ruffled {table} runner

2010-12-27T12:19:00.002-07:00

I feel like I'm back from the dead now sitting at my computer. I spent the good part of Christmas night and all of Sunday in bed trying to recover from some sort of flu/food poisoning. It was not choice. The abdominal cramping got so bad I thought I was contracting for real. What do I know, I've never popped a baby out before. TMI? Probably. It did help my husband and I realize that we are officially not prepared for this baby to come so on the to do list today is putting the hospital bag together and making the flannel receiving blankets to take her home in. Yeesh. Ok, since I know you didn't come for my personal life, I'll get back to crafting.

I finally got to work on the runner for the nightstand in the nursery before Christmas. It was pretty simple to put together and free since I had all the material on hand. I started with a piece of material that runs through the nursery. It was about 12" wide and I'm not sure how long.

I sewed a basting stitch to both sides and gathered them in. Make sure you don't back stitch so that the bobbin thread can be pulled through.

I laid it out so that the piece was how I wanted it to look.

I then took some gray suede that was leftover from this project and cut some strips about 2" wide and about twice as long as the ruffled center piece. I sewed a basting stitch down one side and gathered. Then I laid it out on top of the center pieces and pinned right sides together.

Then just sew over the basting line, removing pins as you go.

When that was finished I flipped it over so that right sides were up. I made sure the seam was flat in the back and did a quick seam over the top so it would lay flat. You could also iron at this point if you don't want the seam on top, but I like the look of the stitch. Plus I don't have that great of a track record with hot pointy metal objects so I avoid them when I can.

Do the same on the other side and your done! Put it wherever you want it to be. Of course.

Pretty simple project and super fast. I didn't finish the other side of the suede as you can tell, I tend to like the look of unfinished suede. Or I'm just lazy. Let me know what you think! Comments (and followers) are most welcome! Have a great Monday!

Linking to these parties this week.

Featured!

2010-12-27T11:43:00.001-07:00

The nursery furniture redo's are being featured over at the DIY Showoff! I LOVE this blog, so make sure you check it out!

{Merry} Christmas!!

2010-12-24T00:37:00.001-07:00

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2010-12-22T10:59:00.002-07:00

I found some AWESOME projects this week that have gone on the to do list (the one that isn't crucial so mid april it will probably get done)

This beautiful wreath from A Very Dandoislion Life. I am a sucker for wreaths, especially paper wreaths, but don't usually make them if they are seasonal because I think its too much work. :) This could be great all year!

This awesome frame from Lemon Tree Creations. Love it! So cute for a little girl.

And finally, the terrific cookies from Ready, Set, Create. Was I the only kid that thought it was funny Frosty melted just so he would stop singing? Probably. Happy Wednesday!

{rosette} lamp shade makeover

2010-12-20T15:29:00.008-07:00

My latest project for the nursery! I was inspired by this lamp from pottery barn kids:

However I don't really love silk flowers and I didn't want to invest in quality ones so they didn't look too cheesy. I do love the fabric flowers that have been going around however. There are lots of tutorials, but these flowers from Tatertots and Jello are really easy. I just used hot glue rather than liquid stitch and it worked fine.
I picked three coordinating fabrics. The nursery is a dusty pink, grey and creme color scheme, so I had the fabric on hand from other projects in the works. I cut them into varying lengths because I wanted to make the flowers different sizes. I folded each strip in half and using the tut above made the flowers. Then I just glued them onto the shade with hot glue. The shade was part of a lamp I bought at big lots but purchased another shade to go with the base. I kept this around because I loved the shape and knew it would be great for the vintage look I wanted. Wasn't digging the gold ricrac though. It took a couple hours to cut the strips and roll the flowers, but I kept getting distracted by the episodes of Burn Notice on Hulu I was watching. It will probably take you less time. I love the gray satin with the cotton fabrics, and the different sizes.
I love how it turned out! Totally ties all the fabrics around into the room. Next up is the curtains and table runner I need to make....someday. I still have four weeks right? Let me know what you think! Comments and (followers) make me so happy! Linking up to this week:
LINK PARTIES

anniversary!

2010-12-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

I'm not here posting, because I'm actually gone celebrating 2 years with the best man EVER. :) See you next week! You are all awesome!

Happy Anniversary Hubs! Here's to many more!

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2010-12-15T09:45:00.002-07:00

I have just a few projects on the docket I want to attempt this week that are uber awesome.

I LOVE these snowflakes from Just Between Friends. She makes them so they can go outside, which rocks.

A frame makeover at the Creative Crate. Love that blog! So I may not be trying this, but I love it. I just don't have vinyl, or a cutter. Does anyone want to buy me a sillhouette?

I LOVE these. So cute, and fast! Faith, Hope, Love shows you how to make them.

over at {better after}

2010-12-14T14:54:00.001-07:00

The dresser and nightstand redo is being featured over at Better After. One of my favorite blogs, well, ever. I promise it will make you laugh and inspire you. Head on over!

Over at Ucreate!

2010-12-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

The Personal Picture Clocks are being featured over at UCREATE! Such an awesome blog with TONS of great ideas, so check it out!

5 {second} shirt makeover

2010-12-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so maybe it's not QUITE 5 seconds, but you'll see. :)

Step One: Find a knit shirt. I choose knit just because ~~I'm lazy~~ I don't have a lot of time and didn't want to finish the edges. I wasn't loving this one from the downeast outlet clearance store, but saw its potential as a cardigan-ish shirt.

Step 2: Fold it exactly in half with the front on top.

Step 3: Cut it. Go ahead.

Step 4: Carefully cut over any seams.

Step 5: Wear it over whatever you want. I love belts.

See 5 seconds right? Happy cutting!

christmas {lights}

2010-12-10T00:27:00.002-07:00

Head on over to the Creative Crate today where you can learn about photography tips and tricks every friday, with lessons by Stacie and yours truly. Seriously, it rocks, so come play.

wednesdays of {whimsy}

2010-12-08T00:22:00.033-07:00

I heart the craft world. There are so many creative people out there. Here are my favorite projects I may or may not attempt this week. Considering I'm writing this post at 3:00 pm and I'm still in my pajamas I'm gonna go with the latter. BUT they will go on the to do list. :) A Believe Banner from At Second Street. Just love her blog. These darling vintage ornaments at Craftberry Bush. I'm a sucker for all things vintage, or that at least appear vintage.
I know these are supposed to be gifts, but I'll probably make one just for me. I'm nice like that. Check out the shopping list at Infarrantly Creative.
Crafts by Amanda shows how to make these awesome coffee filter trees. I love ruffles. And paper. Win.

And last, this darling festive wreath from Tragic Sensation. Um, love.

So... let's hope I get these done! Let me know if you have any great ideas, cuz I know you do!

rocker {redo}

2010-12-06T11:19:00.001-07:00

I found this set on KSL (like craigslist in Utah) for $20. I needed one for the nursery, but was pretty particular on the color scheme and couldn't find anything for less than $200 in the colors I needed. So I thought I'd brave the magical world of recovering. This was my first attempt ever at recovering furniture so I thought I'd start out with something VERY simple. Well at least I thought it would be. (Notice the oreo's? Yea, I blame my weight gain on 'the baby'. RIGHT.)

A little scary...

So to begin I took the pads off the frame. They were velcroed on back so it wasn't a big deal. I seam ripped the bottom pad at the back edge, and then took our the original foam. I bought a role of 2" thick foam at hobby lobby with a coupon for 40% off, so I think it ended up being around $16. I traced the original foam onto the new roll and then cut it out.

I flipped the original cover inside out and then allowed for about a 1/2 inch seam around the edges, just kind of eye balling it. The suede I found at Joanns on clearance for $7 a yard. I think I used 2 or 2 1/2 yards. Every time I type yard, it comes out yeard. Then I have to backspace. Seriously.

I put right sides together and then just sewed the bottom piece leaving the back open. I put both pads back in, to give more padding and because I allowed a larger seam.

I then pulled the back tight and pinned it. I folded two ribbon pieces and pinned them where I wanted them to tie onto the frame on the back. Then I machine stitched. Yea, I know it looks pretty ghetto, but it's my first time. And it's in the back.

I did the same for the top piece. Stitched right sides together, but only put the new pad in. Then machine stitched the bottom. I marked where I wanted the ribbon in the back and then hand stitched it on. To make the pad look 'puffy', seriously I don't even know what the term is, I just hand stitched front to back a bunch of times, pulling it tight each time until it gathered. I used a thicker thread so it wouldn't break, because you have to go through the pad. I also noticed I usually have a bunch of junk in the background of my photos, yeesh. I'll get to that.

And she's done! The whole project including paint and materials to recover was about $55. Huzzah. I painted the frame white after sanding, and let it dry before replacing the pads. The corners of the bottom piece I also hand stitched a little stitch so they were tight against the curve. I have still to complete the ottoman... another post for another day. :) Let me know what you think or if you have questions! (Sorry for the lack of step pictures)