Little Red Birds Blog

Mark Your Calenders!

2012-01-24T10:55:00.000-08:00

Last night I found out I was accepted to the 7th annual St. Paul

May 12th, 2012 from 10am-5pm

Fine Arts Building and the Progress Center

St. Paul State Fair Grounds

This show will be packed to the gills with talented artists and crafters.
I can't wait to see all the gorgeous work, I'll be surrounded by!

3rd time was definitely a charm or should I say 3rd annual entry.

It's a lesson in not being defeated by rejection. This morning I

created a list of up coming craft shows and application deadlines,
so I stay on track with this year's goals.

Next on my list is the Textile Center of Minnesota.

I can't wait to see the postcard for the show.

More to come!

Have a lovely day!

Arts and Crafty Northeast Minneapolis: Murals

2011-12-05T09:21:00.000-08:00

331 Club: 331 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis

Artist: SKUdvig

I love Northeast Minneapolis. There is truly no better

place to live, especially within Minneapolis. North, South,

Downtown, Uptown, University, etc. etc. They all have their

own personality and character. Each neighborhood is shaped by

the residents who live and work within it. Our neighborhood is colored by

the many artists and art lovers that reside here. Art in public spaces

enhances our experience of everyday life, adds the unexpected and

gives pause to the viewer that may be caught up in the grind of daily life.

It's a chance to take a little visual vacation as we go through the motions

and maybe remind us to make time for art.

I was out on a walk last week, before our fair city was

blanketed in snow and snapped a few photos on 13th Street.

Here are a few more murals of Northeast for

your enjoyment from a previous post.

For even more murals of Minneapolis, check out this post

by City Pages: Minneapolis City of Murals.

What do you love about your city or neighborhood?

Where do you call home?

Have a lovely afternoon!

Shuga Records: 165 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis

Artists: Broken Crow and Overunder

Behind the 331 Club: 331 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis

Artist: Igmur

Behind Bars 208 13th Avenue NE, Minneapolis

Artist: Josh from Dinkytown Tattoo

Falling into December

2011-11-30T11:27:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow will be the first day of December

and today it's 45 degrees in Minneapolis, Minnesnowta.

Unlike many tundra dwellers, I can do without buckets of

snow and freezing temps for now. I do love a good snow day,

sledding, crunching through the snowy street with a cup of

hot tea, bundling up in wooly jackets, scarves and mittens,

sweatering our adorable pups and making snow angels.

I found these lovely ginko leaves, that floated into our

backyard, after an early morning romp with the pups.

They are a reminder of the little things.

Hope you are having a lovely day!

Recycled Bottle Glasses

2011-11-28T05:13:00.000-08:00

I work part-time as a server at a little Northeast
Minneapolis gem called: Chimborazo. It's a little
Ecuadorian restaurant that's big on tastiness and

creating it own personality. I've been able to lend a
crafting hand to a few of the projects. We have many
Peruvian and Ecuadorian sodas in amazing painted

glass bottles. So, I cut some down to use as vases and
candle holders at the table.

Dreaming of cutting your own glass bottles for
glasses, candle holders, vases and other gifts?

Here's the cutter I used:
Ephrem's Bottle Works
This is what I used to create a nice smooth edge:
3M Diamond Hand Pad
Here's the tutorial that worked like a dream:
GreenPowerScience

My favorite logo is Fiora Vanti. I love the

bright splash of contrasting colors. Here's
another favorite:

Have a lovely Monday!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T12:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from my table to yours!

We are having a small celebration this year, but

are sure to focus on what we have to be grateful

for. I had my sweet find us a berry covered branch,

no small feat after the cold snap we had and the hungry

birds that cleared most of them free. I cut out leaves

for everyone to write what they are thankful for on.

What are you thankful for?

I'm thankful for wonderful friends, a loving partner, a supportive family, fuzzy pups, awesome neighbors, a gorgeous day 50 degree day, a roof over my head, work I enjoy and being able to create on a daily basis.

Published in The Small Times!

2011-11-01T06:46:00.000-07:00

The ever clever Leah Redmond, of Leafcutter Designs, created

a tiny newspaper to fit into her equally tiny parcles at the

Wold's Smallest Post Office. She sent out a call for submissions

awhile back for tiny themed stories and other tiny content for her newspaper.

I thought Thumblina, the world's smallest horse, deserved a place in Redmond's

tiny paper world. If I had to have anything published, I would want it in the

Small Times. Tiny things are a fascinating favorite of mine.

Happy Halloweeeeen!

2011-10-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

My sweet and I carved pumpkins this weekend.

He busted out the power tools and created an

intricate mouth full of teeth, while I utilized the

serrated power of a cheap steak knife.

Needless to say he won Best Pumpkin.

Have a safe, happy evening everyone!

Art Party Open House!

2011-10-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

This past weekend
I packed up my cute bits and baubles and headed off

to Art Party Open House at an artist friend's home,
Karen Westendorp. Check out all of her intricately
gorgeous here. I had lots of fun meeting new people
and chatting with old friends. I wasn't planning on
selling anything and as if by magic, 4 hats flew off the
with their new owners.

It was very exciting!

Little Red Birds Green Home.

Unexpected ways to add a bit of green to your home.

Stop Light Lens Dishes- perfect for jewelry, keys, coffee tables or fruit.

Made from stop light lenses and antique silver bowls.

Cloth napkin dispensers complete with vintage Vera Neumann napkins.

I've been using mine for years. It's been an adorable way to store

my cloth napkins at the table. Now you can too!

Have a lovely day!

Two-Wheeler Dress

2011-10-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

Porridges Two Wheeler on Anthropologie

I keep seeing this dress on a yogurt commercial and

love it. It's adorable and of course it's Anthropologie.

I'm not saying all of their picks are pure gold, but

I'm a big fan of some of their styles.

Wow, has it been awhile or what?

Have a lovely afternoon!

Saying Goodbye.....

2011-08-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

This past week my little family and I traveled to North Dakota

to say goodbye to my grandmother Trudy. She was a seamstress

and crafty woman, who loved gardening and creating. She was the

one whom I inherited my innate love of sewing and creating. She

taught me how to embroider and sew.

After being sick for several hard years and an even worse last month,

she died early in the morning of July 24th at the age of 87.

Trudy married a railroad worker at the age of 23 and

spent the next 64 years raising 5 children, including my mother, earning

a living as a seamstress, cultivating a large, enviable garden,

building a house from the ground up and being a best friend

and wife to my grandfather.

We should all be so lucky.

Have a lovely afternoon.

Friday Flowers: Fabric Flower Headband

2011-07-22T05:19:00.000-07:00

Fabric Flower Headband 1

Kristyn at Lil' Luna has not one, but two cutesy flower

headband tutorials on her blog. So, you'll have not one, but

two ways to add some adorable to your wardrobe or give

as a gift to someone sweet.

Fabric Flower Headband 2

What I've been Up To: Summer Gardening

2011-07-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

The hibiscus is blooming, we just finished picking black raspberries

and my zucchini plant is going out of control in the raised bed.

My peppers and tomatoes are well on their way and the herb

garden is rich with intoxicating scents of: dill, cilantro, mint and basil.

I love summer!

My plants have been loving this crazy summer of heavy rains

and hot, hot, hot, steamy weather.

So, while we Minnesotans spent the last three days

cooking in 100 degree weather, my plants have been growing
inches everyday. These have most definitely been the perfect

days to sit and watch your garden explode, in the

comfortable safety of the shade with a cool drink.

1 of 3 bowls harvested from our black raspberry bush.

Giant zucchini plant.

Giant zucchini = delicious bread and grilled delights.

Friday Flowers: Duct Tape Daisy

2011-07-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

If it can't be fixed with duct tape, then it can't be fixed, right?

Well, people have been creating purses and other lovely items

with duct tape for years. So, I guess it's: if it can't be made from

duct tape, it can't be made at all......well, that might be taking it

a bit tooooo far. I understand duct tape is not for everyone, but

it is for this lady.

Joy over at How Joyful has created an easy peasy

tutorial for these little duct tape blooms.

What would you use them for?

Have a lovely weekend!

Friday Flowers: Dahlia Brooch

2011-07-01T05:58:00.000-07:00

Found on Holidash

Here's a lovely brooch to adorn one or all of

your summer dresses.

Have a lovely crafty weekend!

Glossy Painted Ceilings?

2011-06-28T04:14:00.000-07:00

Found on Elle Decor

In my ceiling inspiration search I came across the

idea of glossy painted ceilings. Where a white ceiling

adds height, a colored ceiling creates a cozier feeling,

but with a glossy colored ceiling it would add depth

light and reflectivity to a room.

Very interesting.....very, very interesting....

Hope you enjoy!

Have a lovely afternoon!

Found on Apartment Therapy

Project Inspiration: Painted Ceilings

2011-06-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Found on Design Sponge

Happy Monday Afternoon!

I had a dream that the ceiling in our library/puppy room,

had two foot frames outlined with white edging

and filled with a gorgeous tranquil aqua. I woke up and

decided that that dream should be a reality. The Puppy Library walls

are white. I have never wanted to paint them, but an infusion

of color on the ceiling, some edging and perhaps a ceiling medallion or two

would add some lovely architectural details to the room.

So, this morning I decided to find some inspiration and

here is what I found- enjoy!

Found on Apartment Therapy

Found on Elle Decor

Found on Flickr

Found on Kitchen Clarity

Friday Flowers: Pom Pom Flowers

2011-06-24T05:38:00.000-07:00

Cute little retro pom pom flowers!

Kristen over at Domestifluff created

a sweet little tutorial, so you can make some

adorable flowers. She used purple and white,

but if you used yellow, I think they would be

reminiscent of Craspedia.

Little Balls of Sunshine

By Abi Daniel of Horsefly

Have a lovely weekend!

What I've Been Up To: Buying Shoes

2011-06-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

Blowfish Gilt Ballet Flat

(And of course my sidekick duo: Oscar & Fizzgig,

currently resting up for future puppy shenanigans)

Busy Design Bee: Abigail Brown

2011-06-20T04:07:00.000-07:00

I first came upon Abigail Brown's amazing winged wonders while

taking a stroll around the internet and stumbling across a blog called

Violet & Earnest and Pretty Things. I immediately fell in love and had

to write Abigail and tell her all about it. She had a very lovely response,

which was fantastic in itself.

I cannot get over the rich colors and layers upon layers of texture.

Her fabric renderings of our fine feathered friends is also kind of

amazing, to put it mildly. The detail and care that has been lovingly stitched

into each of her little creations speaks to her passion for her craft.

I hope one day I can see one in person.

Here are a few small friends to enjoy,

all these and more are featured on her website!

Here are a few quotes from her website, that I really enjoyed:

"There is nothing more natural to her than to work with fabric, using it to give life to the little creatures that form in her mind. Continuing to work in this way she feels forever connected to her childhood and the wonderful days she spent with her grandma."

"She loves the colour and vibrancy of the new fabrics but the life that still lives on in an old garment or piece of cloth, and enjoys the process of turning it into something new. Her work centres around animals because they fascinate and inspire her."

Have a lovely afternoon!

Friday Flowers: Crochet Daffodils

2011-06-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a thoughtful (and free) tutorial by June Gilbank

of PlanetJune for all of you flower loving crocheters.

Want to print the pdf version?

Make a small donation to spread the love.

Enjoy and have a lovely weekend!

What I've Been Up To: RetroRama

2011-06-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Historical Society's RetroRama was back for the

5th year and a vintage loving friend or two and I

were decked out and enjoying the retro people watching.

It was definitely the most fun ladies night out I've had.
Next year we're going all out and I can't wait!

"A sparkling fashion show inspired by yesteryear’s elegant leisure lifestyles.

Also, retro cooking and cocktail demos, vintage shopping, creative activities,

music, games and more!"

The cute dancing flapper is my friend!

Friday Flowers: T-Shirt Pom Poms

2011-05-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

I found a clever little tutorial on how to transform an old

t-shirt into a super cute pom pom flower on Craftaholics Anonymous.

It's an adorable spring decoration, now that spring has

actually sprung, here in Minneapolis. We were beginning to think

spring was just a magical collective dream we had all had and

winter was here to stay. Hurray for sunshine and warm breezes!

Now its time for flowers growing in the garden.

Have a happy Friday and wonderful weekend!

Arts and Crafty Around Town: Summer of Dresses

2011-05-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

Being a dress lover and daily wearer, I was pleased to discover

a local group that started the Summer of Dresses last year.

They have a meet up tonight at the Aster Cafe, alas,

a friend has a birthday celebration and I cannot join them.

How does the Summer of Dresses work?

wear a dress
snap a photo
share it (email photos to post@summerofdresses.posterous.com)

Here are a few random photos of dressed up ladies

for your dress viewing pleasure.
Sorry for the lack of source information.

Enjoy!

Let's make this another summer of dresses,

I know I will!

Ring Love

2011-05-01T21:16:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I kind of love this

enormous octopus ring. It's kind of ridiculous

and kind of beautiful.
(And most definitely gaudy.)

Hope you had a lovely weekend!

Friday Flowers: Ribbon Roses

2011-04-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick, pretty little tutorial for making ribbon

roses on Burda Style.

Have a lovely weekend!

Crafty City Clean-up

2011-04-29T06:36:00.000-07:00

A friend posted this link on Facebook and I love what Juliana Santacruz Herrera

has done with these potholes in her own city of Paris. Minneapolis is littered with

potholes this time of year and spring is slowly dragging it's feet. Between the bumpy

ride and gray days, a bit of color to smooth our ride and brighten our own little city

seems much needed. Juliana's project reminds me of the urban knitting and tree

encapsulating work of the group Knitta Please. It's creative minds like these that

lend whimsical solutions and bursting colors to life's less glamorous nooks and crannies.

Friday Flowers: Egg Shell Flowers

2011-04-22T05:03:00.000-07:00

Brought to You By: WPA Film Library

Just in time for Easter an old video clip of a clever and

crafty woman making egg shell flowers.

Enjoy!

Friday Flowers: Veggie Flowers

2011-04-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Veggie Bouquet

It's quite possible that you could be having guests over

or be a guest at someone's Easter celebration this weekend.

What better way to celebrate, than by making or bringing

some festive vegetables to the Easter table. Check out this

tutorial by Living Locurto and make your loved ones

something beautiful and healthy.

Have a lovely day!

Arts and Crafty Northeast Minneapolis: Salon Stella + Broken Crow

2011-04-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

I just got another amazing haircut from Kol at Salon Stella.

Not only do they beautify their clientele, but also our neighborhood,

here in Northeast Minneapolis. Their first location, just blocks from

my home sweet home flaunts an amazing mural by local artists-

Broken Crow, featuring a large pink goat surrounded by bright stars.

Their new location has also been graced by the brushes of the same

group of artists, but this time, it's bedecked with large swooping owls.

Check out their mural blog here.

Public art in Northeast Minneapolis is just another perk of

living in this neighborhood, especially if it's by Broken Crow.

They have created beautiful murals all around the city and

the world over. Check out their Flickr stream here for more
imaginative imagery.

Friday Flowers: Paper Flowers

2011-04-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

Here's an easy little paper flower tutorial

from Inna's Creations. Something to start off

your weekend with something pretty to celebrate

all the beautiful warm weather and the little flowers

poking their heads out of the ground.

Enjoy!

A Little Vintage Love

2011-04-08T08:06:00.000-07:00

Found on Decades Festival

I'm going to a 60s themed charity event tonight.

It should be a lot of fun. I was peeking around for

some outfit inspiration and I love this picture.

Have a groovy afternoon!

Before and After: So Many Possibilities

2011-04-05T15:49:00.000-07:00

I was out and about shopping today and bought

some very dangly earrings that weren't quite my

style, but had tons of potential. Now instead of

one pair, I have two! While it's not a huge change,

these yellow beauties are just my style now.

The silver findings don't quite match,

so I'll have to pick up some that do.

I usually buy things with the intent to alter them and

I'm sure many of you creative wonders out there, see the

potential in something that just isn't just right or is in disrepair,

but with the right materials, adjustments and a bit of hard work,

it has the possibility to be amazing.

Oh the possibilities!

Have a lovely afternoon!

More Art Around the House: Leonetto Cappiello

2011-03-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

My sweet picked up a great piece of poster art at a local

consignment shop, Curb, while working away last week.

I love Leonetto Cappiello. He was an innovative Italian advertising

poster artist that lived in Paris and considered the father of modern

advertising. He began his poster art career in the late 18th century

and continued creating beautiful works until 1936, just a few

years before his death in 1942.

Royat

Minneapolis's Groupon has an art.com side deal today, so I'm

going to splurge and get a beautiful blue Cappiello I've had my eye on for years.

Vera!

2011-03-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

I got some beautiful new towels by the textile designer

Vera Neumann! They are so wonderfully springy and bright, the perfect

addition to our tiny little kitchen.

Vera's work is amazing and shows up on napkins, silk scarves

and other home furnishings. Vera believed that one should surround themselves

with beauty and I think adding her bight florals or bursting geometrics is the perfect

way to do just that.

Several books cataloging her design career and life are out for your enjoyment,

including, Vera: The Art and Life of an Icon, which came out in 2010.

Bellagarza on Flickr

Want to enjoy her work now. Check out this

Vera Flickr photo stream.

Friday Flowers: Mixko Felt Rings

2011-03-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

MIXKO on Etsy

A quick little post for today!

I kinda love these rings, they're amazing!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Fabric Birds!

2011-03-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

These adorable little birds are the first part of a project

I'm working on, inspired by the bird cage shade I wrote

about a couple months ago. The pattern was created by Spool

and I used fabric scraps from other projects around the house

and especially in the kitchen, because that's where it will be hanging!

The birds were super easy to stitch up and stuff and I really enjoyed

combining different patterns, one of my favorite things to do.

Check out Spool for the pattern and soon you'll be on your way

to stitching up some adorable feathered friends for your own next.

Happy Sewing!

Something for Spring!

2011-03-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

Design House Stockholm Carrie Basket by Marie-Louise Gustafsson

Oh spring, oh spring, where for art thou spring?

I am soooo ready for a little less winter wonderland

and a whole lot more trees budding, grass growing

and birds chirping. I'm getting a new bike this year.

My old one is currently sparkling up the night in my front yard.

I really want to adorn my new bike with the prettiest little basket

ever. I know I've featured this basket before, but it soo reminds me

of spring and biking to the store or out for a picnic.

Sigh.

Hurry scurry spring!

Have a sunshiny afternoon!

Thirty-Thirty!

2011-03-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

Manvsgeorge on Etsy

My 30th birthday is fast approaching!

That's right, my thirtieth! Yay! I'm very excited.

I've been counting down the years until I turned 30.
Why is 30 the magic number?

Why aspire to be 30? It seems like a solid age.

I like how it rolls off my tongue and it just always

seemed like the age to be.

The magic happens on March 10th.

I'm making a cute dress out of this fabric.

My friends are throwing me a party that weekend!

(This is amazing, because I have never let anyone plan a party for me)

I get to spend the day going to museums and lunching with my mom.

I'm going to have sushi with my sweetie.

The very next evening I get to see one of my favorite local bands play with friends.

The evening before I'm going to see my other favorite local band!

Now if that all doesn't sound like a little bit of wonderful,

I don't know what does.

Facebook As A Crafty Application

2011-03-07T06:17:00.000-08:00

I know some are opposed to Facebook and I completely

understand. However, I feel like Facebook is one of those social

networking tools that's here to stay. I also feel it's the type of

tool that you can pick and choose how you want to use it.

I don't play Mafia Wars or Farmville, give my information out to tons

of applications or use it to connect with everyone in my past.

So, check out the craft and design offerings Facebook has waiting for you and

ignore all the people, pages and applications that don't fit your life.

Recently I decided to see what I could find on Facebook, because

I am forever searching for what's out there, so I made a Little Red Birds page.

I wanted to see how it would work as a tool to connect with customers

(only time will tell) and use it to find more ideas and inspiration.

I started adding bushels of wonderful craft, design and vintage

pages to my "likes" section. I've found what's on Facebook

isn't always what's on their blog. Here are a few of the bits I found,

check them out in my Little Red Birds "like" section.

Espied on Etsy, Craftaholics Anonymous, Craft Critique, Craft Test Dummies, Dollar Store Crafts, Mod Podge Rocks!, Crafterminds, Infarrantly Creative, Camp Smartypants, Try Handmade :: Indie Shopping Blog, Regretsy, k9 knits, Amber Alexander, Unanimous Craft, Cavy Couture, my little sunshine, The Scrap Review, Material Girls, The Elegant Owl, IceMilk Aprons, Cause for the Paws, Rifle Paper Co., Polka Dot Bride, art and lemons, hello, splendor, Bargain Hoot, Katy Elliott, A Little Hut, decor8, Black Eiffel, Cute Overload, Modern Dog magazine, BellaOnline, smitten kitchen, Skip to my Lou, The Knotty Bride, Oatmeal Lace Design, A Design Story, 7th House on the Left, Beeswax Birdies, Copy Cat Chic, BlissTree, cupcakes and cashmere, Make and Takes, Housewifery, How About Orange, because im addicted, Greentea Design's The Design Tree, Vixen Vintage, Crafts by Amanda, Tip Junkie, Dreamers Into Doers, Martha Stewart Weddings, Le Papier Studio, Martha Stewart Living, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, Craft, American Craft Week, @Craft, Ax-Man Surplus, No Coast Craft-o-Rama, Handmade Artists' Shop, i like you, Crafty Planet, CRAFT Magazine, Little Red Birds Design

How do you use Facebook?

Have a lovely afternoon!

Friday Flowers: Paper Towel Tube Flowers

2011-03-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

Design by Night

I came across this tutorial a couple weeks

ago and thought it was terribly clever.

The paper towel tubes or you could also use

toilet paper tubes, create such a lovely curved petal.

I love it!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sharing the Love

2011-03-01T15:17:00.000-08:00

Melissa over at Kindness Patience Balance is giving away

free advertising on her blog this month for 10 lucky Esty sellers!

<3s to Melissa and her generous spirit!

Check out her cute little Etsy shop:

Have a lovely afternoon!

When Your Hands Are Busy, but Your Mind is Wandering

2011-02-28T06:13:00.000-08:00

Found on Bowerbird

When I'm not solving a problem or working on a new technique, my mind tends to head for the clouds-

daydreams, imagining too many ideas, making mental to-do lists, getting antsy etc.

It's important to have all encompassing, interesting things to listen to while working.

The right ear candy can occupy your mind and keep you working longer and harder.

If you're like me, music is wonderful, but sometimes you need want something different.

I like the news, audio books, podcasts and evening listening to video talks.

Here are my favorite links:

News/Podcasts

This American Life

Radio Lab

National Public Radio

The New Yorker Fiction Podcast

Design Sponge Podcast

Audio Books

What do you listen to?

Have a productive week!

Friday Flowers: Rosette Handbag

2011-02-25T13:23:00.000-08:00

Sew Home Grown

Just saw this and thought it was so cute, I would

do two Friday Flower posts today.

There's a super cute, Athropologie inspired

rosette purse tutorial over at Sew Home Grown.

It's a very well written, easy to follow tut.

Such a lovely springy bag!

Pretty soon you'll be toting around your own

adorable, flower coated bag to the delight of

all who see you!

Anthropologie Inspiration Bag

Friday Flowers: Pleated Fabric Flowers

2011-02-25T06:27:00.000-08:00

Grey Luster Girl

I found a few cute pleated fabric flower

tutorials for you to start off your weekend

on a cute crafty note!

Looking for more flower tutorials?
Check here.

Have a lovely weekend!

Craftaholics Anonymous

How To: Fabric Covered Buttons

2011-02-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

I love fabric covered buttons and they are super

easy to make without using a kit. All you need is

a button with a shank and your favorite fabric.

I'm using these buttons for some tufted pillows I'm making.

You can use fabric buttons as embellishments, to add character

to an item of clothing that needs a little something extra or anything else.

I'm pretty sure fabric buttons will spruce just about anything up

and add a perfect finishing touch.

This is a picture heavy tutorial, as it very well should be,

so I'm going to add my first jump!

Have a wonderful afternoon!

Color Inspiration: Sky Blue Love

2011-02-22T11:29:00.000-08:00

BadassBunny on Etsy

Today the sun is shining and the sky is the most

amazing shade of blue. Today's post is inspired

by today's amazing sky.

I'm kinda sweet on Minneapolis- one day it's

snowing and blowing up bushels of snow and the

next day it's beautiful- the sun shines on the glittering white

snow and the brown tree branches are framed by a gorgeous sky blue.

Now who doesn't love that imagery?

Have a beautiful blue sky day!

DestacheAttic on Etsy

Elansolete on Etsy

Outside the Snow is Falling....

2011-02-21T14:11:00.000-08:00

I took a few pictures of snow flakes today

using a piece of black eco-felt and the macro setting

on my camera. I think they turned out pretty well,

especially since I was just using my old Cannon PowerShot

and not a fancier digital SLR camera like my sweet has.

It's amazing what you can do with what's
available!

Have a lovely afternoon!!

Another Snow Day!

2011-02-21T13:31:00.000-08:00

Found on Geekologie

The snow globe that is Minneapolis has been shook up again and huge white flakes

have been floating down since yesterday morning.

I've spent day taking care of little odds and ends around the hive

and read about crafty blogging:

Crafterminds

Craftaholics Anonymous

I am using a couple of the tips I learned below.

Have a lovely afternoon!

I added LinkWithin to my blog,

click the link to add it to your blog too!

I set up a google alert, so I can

more easily find flower tutorials for you!

You can easily set one up and have alerts sent

directly to your inbox. Set the search terms to alert you

when people mention you or your business name

or when a new page has been created about something you love!

Friday Flowers: How About Orange

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

Fabric Flower Tutorial

Here are a few flower tutorials from

How About Orange, a great blog

for all things orange, crafty tutorials

and other great finds.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Fabric Rose Tutorial

Color Inspiration: Aqua

2011-02-15T15:28:00.000-08:00

Found on Manolosphere

I love the color aqua.

It's both bright and uplifting

and calm, like a wave of color washing over you.

Our kitchen is aqua and red,

a color combination I particularly love.

It also combines two colors my sweet and I love.

I've been hunting around for new chairs for our

kitchen table/counter/bar/island, which is an odd one.

One side needs chairs, the other side bar stools.

I would love to find something like these

for the shorty side of the table.

Not only are they cute, but they have nice lines.

Who doesn't love a good retro chair?

Have a lovely afternoon!

Found on Eclectibull

Found on Wedgewood Tulsa

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

Hope you have a lovey day!

For My Valentine

2011-02-12T06:45:00.000-08:00

I found a sweet little silver box charm,

while thrifting last Thursday. I instantly

wanted to put a tiny note inside of it for my sweet.

It was covered in flowers, so I covered them with

a velvety ribbon and shrunk down my Valentine, so it would fit.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Little Blue Chairs and Big Huge Smiles

2011-02-10T15:25:00.000-08:00

Laurie over at Little Blue Chairs wrote a post about

blogging that I wholeheartedly agree with. I try to blog

on a regular basis about ideas, projects, objects and people

that have inspired me or I love. While I'm not doing it for

fame or money, I always wonder who my readers are or better

yet, do I have any readers? I know I have a handful of followers,

but what do they think or would like to see more of? Whenever

I get a comment, it makes my day!

Today I got the best comment ever!!!!!!

Laurie over at Little Blue Chairs named my blog in 15 she loves.

I will work this weekend to create my list of 15 I love and pass on

the goodness.

It's like a blog Valentine, sigh, oh how I love that......

What are your favorite blogs? I would love to check them out,

especially if it's your own!

Have a wonderful afternoon!

Valentine's Snail Mail

2011-02-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

One Charming Party via How About Orange

I have had several friends over the years that

have hated Valentine's when they are single. All

the pink, red and hearts plastered on everything,

the gratuitous snuggling

and couples, couples everywhere.

If it's not your holiday, luckily it's only temporary.

I have always loved Valentine's,
which is why I send Valentine's to everyone- my mom, friends-
all the people I'm sweet on.

Take it as an opportunity to make someone else's day

and what better way to do that, than with snail mail!

Mail that's not a bill or solicitation- score!

Mail that says I heart you, even better!

Have a lovely afternoon!

Origami hearts fit nicely in envelopes

Oh My Handmade

Paint swatches- love

Perfect to mark a book

Via Pininterest

The Rubber Punkin

Super Cute on Valentine's

2011-02-10T13:01:00.000-08:00

Write it down

Camp Smartypants

I love Valentine's Day! It's one of

my favorite holidays. I know many think

it's a day created by greeting card companies

and florist shops and so what if it is? It's still a sweet

day to tell someone that you're

smitten with them or that you love them or tell your sweetie

"I love us, we're awesome together!"

Here's a few cute ways to send that message.

Spell it out.

Make and Takes

Bake it up

Sweet Dani B via Martha Stewart

Carve it out

The Guardian

Window Display: Winter Iglooland

2011-02-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

Found on BrandFlakesforBreakfast

I'm beginning to wish our winter wonderland were

made of gallon jugs and fluffy stuffing......

Although without all this snow, we wouldn't have

interesting visuals such as Anthropologie's window displays.

Have a warm and cozy afternoon!

Little Desktop Birds

2011-02-07T06:26:00.000-08:00

Alessi Chip Paperclip Holder

I ended the week with some cuteness for your desk.
Here a a few more bits that transform
regular desktop items into something sweet.

Happy Monday!

Kozoil Taper Dispenser

Birds on a Wire Paper Clips

Sparrow Clips

What My Sweet Could Get Me for Valentines

2011-02-06T05:11:00.000-08:00

Vintage Valentines hidden all over the house!

Set 1 Set 2

I love romantic gestures.
Surprise dates, love notes in the snow,
handmade wildflower bouquets, mixed cds,
hand written love poems, framed pictures of a favorite moment
and anything else you can think of.
A sweet gesture doesn't have to cost anything,
but a bit of creativity.

No time for creativity, here are a few cute ideas.

Have a lovely afternoon!

Flowers that never die, but organize:

Polka Dot Gloves, so he can keep my hands warm even when he's not holding them

Tea for two

A Tiny Book Ring Inscribed with a Tiny Love Poem, Sonnet, Novella, etc.

What I Could Get My Sweet for Valentines

2011-02-06T05:02:00.000-08:00

Native Wild Flower Bombs, so his wild flower garden will be blooming with love this summer.

I've been thinking of sweet things to surprise
my sweet this Valentine's and came up with a couple
ideas that would brighten his day and possibly
inspire your own sweet surprise.

Have a wonderful day!

Bacon Chocolate, because my baby loves the meatiness.

Cocktail glasses for a tasty after romantic dinner beverage.

Lovebirds Spoon Rests for our adventures in cooking.

Friday Flowers: A Techie Garden for Your Desk

2011-02-04T06:08:00.000-08:00

USB Tulip Garden

Flowers for my desk that never

die and organize!

Sign me up.

Have a lovely afternoon!

Bits & Projects

2011-02-03T13:36:00.000-08:00

I've been working on quite a few little projects this

week, a few that didn't work out and a few I'm really

excited to finish!

Tomorrow we four, my sweet, the pups and me, are

going to pile into the car and drive up north to a friend's cabin.

Going up north in the winter, where it's even colder, why?

While it doesn't make that much sense to me,

I dream of sunshine, of vast blue oceans and of wide green leaves on tropical plants...

However, I do have an awesome new pair of snow shoes to put some mileage on!

So off to the snowy, frozen tundra we go!

This afternoon it's grocery shopping, cleaning, packing

and a bit of thrift store shopping for a few supplies.

Have an amazing afternoon!

Trials of developing a new project.

How many uses can a flower have?

I am determined going to find out.

Piles of sweaters, felted and ready to be cut out, so they can

be reincarnated as hats and warm heads.
The black argyle sweater was transformed into a hat this morning!

Puppies in need of a day with their personal puppy stylist (me).

Busy Design Bee: Awon Golding

2011-02-02T06:48:00.000-08:00

Awon Golding is an inspired London based milliner, that creates

wearable works of art. It's work like hers that inspires me to

make and create. I hope you find some inspiration in

her amazing Elements collection.

Here is what she has to say about her featured collection: Elements:

"‘Elements’ is inspired by traditional Japanese arts and crafts methods such as origami, sashiko and lacquering. The five pieces represent the five elements according to Japanese tradition – Earth, Wind, Fire, Water and Void – and the balance between form, colour and technique."

Have an amazing day!

Brightening A Gray Day

2011-01-31T06:55:00.000-08:00

Otchipotchi Wall Vases

A little bit of life on a gray day reminds me of

bright sunny days and the neighborhood blooming

with beauty. I can't wait to take the pups on a

long stroll to admire my neighborhood gardens.

Until then I've been picking up small bouquets

and adding a bit of life and bright, living color

to rooms around the house.

Here are a few pretty ways to add

a few blooms to unexpected places.

CB2 3-Ball Hanging Bud Vase

Otchipotchi Wall Vases

CB2 Teardrop Diamond Hanging Vase

Friday Flowers: French Beaded Flowers

2011-01-28T06:09:00.000-08:00

Beadercaren on Flickr

I love beaded flowers, especially the ones I find in

antique shops. Here's a couple great tutorials on how

to make them yourself from Bead Studio, Craft Cove

and the Glass Butterfly. To fuel your inspiration I found

a few lovely pictures on Flickr.

Have a wonderful weekend!

BeadsinBloom on Flickr

Ayanacreations on Flickr

Quick and Cute

2011-01-27T06:20:00.000-08:00

Ulala on Etsy

I just saw this and it struck me

as adorable. Thought I would share...

Have a lovely day!

Friday Flowers: Zipper Flowers

2011-01-21T11:05:00.000-08:00

Craftaholics Anonymous

Here are a few zipper flowers from Craftaholics Anonymous

to start your weekend on a crafty note.

Perfect on your winter jacket, a sweater or any other way you

can find to wear it.

Have a lovely weekend!

Craftaholics Anonymous

Peacock Love for Your Toes

2011-01-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

We received CB2's most recent catalog and this lovely

peacock feather rug was waiting inside. I love it!

And it would be perfect in our living room.

I wonder if the rug fairy will leave it under my pillow tonight....

If not, it's still a nice little piece of eye candy.

Have a wonderful day!

Happy Felted Monday!

2011-01-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

It wasn't the happiest of mornings, until I stumbled upon Two Kitties

and saw these sun soaked pictures of felted wool pups playing in

the gorgeous green, green grass. Oh grass, how I miss thee.

These pictures remind me of our summer puppy play dates

and packs of small packs of pups wrestling and chasing around the yard.

Here's a bit of sun and fun to brighten this wintry Monday morn.

Have a lovely day!

Project: Upper Level

2011-01-07T11:47:00.000-08:00

Here's a little spin around our upper level

and bedroom. It's been a lot of work and

there's still a bit left- the popcorn ceiling,
new lighting fixtures, refinishing the stairs etc.
Here are some during pictures and
below are the before pictures.

Renovations are a ton of work,

but as you may know, even if it's just painting a room

(which is mostly all we did), it's definitely

worth it and a huge change for the better.

Shoes add a bit of color in an

organized way.

Helper pups seated on the beautiful bamboo floors

and a stair that needs refinishing.

We decided on relaxing colors for the walls and textiles

and kept prints to a minimum to create an oasis from

the clutter and shuffle of the day.

Right now the lighting fixture are just bare, blinding bulbs.

Time to cover them up.

We added bits of bright color through a few chairs,

and personal effects. There's no way I can keep an

entire level devoid of a smidge of color.

Friday Flowers: Cutest Puppy Helpers Ever

2011-01-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

It was a photography morning and

Oscar and Fizzgig were more than happy to

lend a helping paw. Fizzgig picked hats

and Oscar modeled them.

Have a lovely afternoon!

Project Inspiration: Bird Cage Light

2011-01-06T15:55:00.000-08:00

Found on Crafterholic

Ahhhhh, vacation is the best.

We had my sweet's family in town for the holidays,

spent time with my family and threw a little NYE

party with a few close friends.

We also did a ton of work on the upstairs and

I have got to tell you that is it getting darn near close

to being done. I'm going to take come pictures tomorrow

morning when the light is perfect. Every time I walk up the stairs

I get a smile on my face. I also am not living out of baskets and boxes.

I have drawers! Yay!

Wrapping up the top floor gives me a chance to focus on

other projects, like maybe some lighting in the kitchen...

I think this bird cage shade would be perfect.

Maybe with a few little red birds!

Hope you're all having a wonderful week!

Happy Happy New Year To You!

2011-01-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had the happiest of holidays!

Filled with love, joy and cozy times with loved ones.

We had a quite a few nice little celebrations with

family and friends.

We also cleaned up the house and de-cluttered.

It's nice to start the new year without last year's

clutter and mess. I think it creates more of a

fresh start and lends a bit of ceremony to what could be

simply the changing of a calendar year.

I am loving my new calendar- there are so many blank days

and months that are full of possibilities. I like a large blank

desk calendar to fill up with everything from fun activities,

work due dates, bills, birthdays, puppy info and everything

else under the sun. I know some use their phones or the computer,

but I still like writing things down, it cements it in my head.

Now that the calendar is up, it's time

to start setting some goals for this year.

What new year's traditions do you have?

Hope you're having a lovely day!

Merry Christmas from Minneapolis and Little Red Birds!

2010-12-24T05:50:00.000-08:00

I hope you all are having a lovely Christmas Eve

and an enchanting Christmas Day! I found these

screen prints by Minneapolis artist:

Paul Gardner of Florafauna. I think they

capture Minneapolis perfectly, especially

the MLPS Snow Globe, how appropriate is

that, this December of record snowfalls?

I am smitten with all of these prints and can't wait

to hang them on my walls. Florafauna's site has

many more pieces of art to delight and amaze.

I found it to be very dangerous territory for my

pocketbook and I.

I might have to go back for this for my sweet,

and this or this for me, because I love these bands.

I know many people around this country are

dealing with the trails and tribulations of inclement

weather and my hope is that you are all safe

and with the ones you love, because that is the

best way to spend any day!

Wishing you a very merry holiday celebration!

Wednesday Flowers: Paper Poinsettia

2010-12-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

From Page Master Design's

My home is all a bustle with holiday preparations:

baking, wrapping, decorating, crafting and last minute bits.

I thought it would be better to have this week's flowers on

Wednesday to give you a chance to take a little flower break

and make any one or all of these poinsettia tutorials.

Have a wonderful day!

From Miss Fancy Pants

From Paper Studio

Warming You Up: DIY Draft Blocker

2010-12-21T13:20:00.000-08:00

Francesg29 on Flickr

Drafty windows and doors create sky high energy bills

and uncomfortable rooms. I found several tutorials on how to

make your own draft stoppers, which would work for both

doors and windows from Not Martha and CraftBits

In the past I've also used stuffing filled knee socks to block drafts in windows.

Of course getting a new energy efficient heating system, new windows and doors,

adding/replacing insulation would easily create a warmer, more efficient home,

but if you can't afford that, there are other options.

Here are a few other way inexpensive to keep your home sweet home warmer:

Close doors and heating vents in rooms you aren't using.
Clean your furnace filters or flush out your radiators.
Recaulk your window and doors frames.
Install indoor or outdoor window films.
Hang insulated curtains or shades.
Make sure the the damper on your fireplace is closed when not in use.
Run your ceiling fans in reverse, so your rising heat will be circulated back down.
Add foam outlet inserts to outlets and light switches on exterior walls.
Add a hot water bottle to the end of the bed before you get in, so it does the work of warming your bed and not you.
Cover cold tile and wood floors with rugs- add extra insulation and makes feet happy.
Add a rounded heavy curtain several feet in front of your exterior doors to stop that gust of cold air from bursting into the house, like some restaurants do.
Adopt a rescue pup (or two) to sit in your lap, lay on your feet or snuggle in bed with you. Ok, but only if you had planned on it, pups are not portable heaters.
Bake and roast more. You'll have tasty eats and a warmer home. After you shut your oven off, open the door to let heat out, but keep an eye on your small ones- pets and children.
Let your bath water cool before draining to add warm moisture to the air.
If you have a dishwasher, let the warm moist air out, instead of cooling down inside.

What do you do to keep your home warmer and stop drafts?

Hope everyone is enjoy a warm, cozy day!

Cookie Party!

2010-12-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

I am really excited about hosting a cookie party this Saturday!

I'm having all of my favorite lady friends over to bake cookies,

watch Marilyn Monroe movies and have a cocktail or two.

It's going to be a s'marvelous way to spend the day.

Joy Ever After (love the name btw) has a sweet selection

of adorable fun tags, blank cards and an editable recipe card

in PDF form- love! I'm going to be mixing up my grandmother's

sugar cookie and gingerbread recipes Friday night and now

creating something cute for my guests to bring home.

I'm so excited!

Have I mentioned that I love Christmas!

It is truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Have a lovely day!

Friday Flowers: Recycled Plastic Bottle Lamp Shade

2010-12-17T08:26:00.000-08:00

Sarah Turner specializes is making gorgeous lamp shades

out of plastic bottles and it's a good thing she does, because

they are amazing. We need more designers like her. You should

click on over to her website and check out all of her other styles.

I particularly like the flowered ones, but that's not too surprising.

Check out all of her designs for some inspriation or to buy to gift or

enjoy at home.

Have a lovely Friday!

Giveaway: Burda's Holiday Giveaway

2010-12-13T14:35:00.000-08:00

Burda has another lovely prize for you

and all you have to do is leave a comment!

Comment by December 20th at 9AM EST

and you could win all that is shown above from

Singer. A free sewing machine and dress form, how

good is that?

So shake a tail feather and get clicking!

Warming You Up: Vintage Scarf Bedspread

2010-12-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

So last week was scarves to keep you warm and this week

we take scarves that only keep you warm on extremely hot days

and make them winter warm. I love the patterns, colors and texture of

vintage silk scarves, but very rarely wear them. Ouno Design's has created

a gorgeous bedspread and you can too! Gather your silk scarves and cut them

down to the same size, stitch, add a warm backing and voila!

Don't want to stitch one together?

Go to Ouno Design and click "add to cart"

Soon you'll be snuggled up under

a lovely bedspread with visions of sugar plums dancing in your head.

Have a wonderful Monday!

Contest: Cut Out + Keep's Beading and Cross Stitch Contests

2010-12-12T19:55:00.000-08:00

Here are two contests from Cut Out+ Keep,

a site to make and share craft tutorials.

The first one, due on December 28th, is

from Beads Unlimited. Simply enter up to 3 beading

projects here and you could win a beading prize pack

to keep you creating beauty!

The second, due on January 31st, is from Cath Kidson.

She sent out 5 copies of her two crafty tomes: Stitch!

and Mini Make! All you have to do is enter up to

3 cross stitch projects and boom! you are in the running

to get a copy of each. Who doesn't love a few free bits

for being a creative cat?

Have a lovely one!

Giveaway: Burda's Holiday Giveaway

2010-12-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

Burda is giving away a new prize every day

and all you have to do is leave a comment!

Comment by tomorrow 9AM EST

and you could win all that is shown above from

Sublime Stitching. Gotta love that!

So, click on over and get some free loot!

We're Snuggle Up Together Like Two Birds of Feather Would Be

2010-12-11T08:36:00.000-08:00

Bugs and Fishes

Minnesota has been incredibly generous with snow today

and here in Minnesota we're looking at record snowfalls!

In our little home we're snuggling up and staying in.

The snow is up past Oscar's chest and the pups are not

interested in going outside, so you know it's serious!

Needless to say the Art Sale at Exit Realty is on hold

for today, but will be back on in full swing tomorrow

from 12-6.

It's the perfect day to snuggle up with some hot tea,

slip into fuzzy slippers, fill your house with the smell

of baking cookies, put up your holiday decorations and

make this adorable snowflake curtain from Bugs and Fishes.

Enjoy!

Have an amazing snow day!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2010-12-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas.

My sweet is not as into the holiday as I am, so I thought I would

create a decoration that even he would enjoy. My old bike was

in the garage just begging to be covered in Christmas lights, so I did

just that and put it in the front yard. This is the first year I've had

holiday lights up outside. Hopefully they will brighten the cold wintry

nights for others, the way that those twinkly little lights always do for me!

I've been working on ornaments this afternoon and listening

to Christmas music, it's very festive over here!

How are you decorating for the holidays?

What are your favorite things to do that get you in a festive mood?

Have a lovely afternoon!

Vintage Love.....

2010-12-09T07:56:00.000-08:00

Found on Etsy SweetMoonLightShop

I love dresses, I live in dresses.

Today I was clicking around Etsy

and I found these magical holiday dresses.

I think one of us should get them and go to a

sparkly Christmas ball, sigh.....

Found on Etsy urbaneccentric

More Time Please!

2010-12-07T07:22:00.000-08:00

Found on Esty- oldjunkyardboutique

Ahrrrg. I'm having a moment of that crazy stress,

that makes you feel like you'll never finish in time and

nothing is working out. Just a couple more minutes, days,

actually another week would be perfect.

Found on Etsy- TimeAndMaterials

However, in reality, things are going well and it'll all work out.

The sale is on Saturday and it'll continue to be a big push until then and then.... and then-

Poof! It'll all be over and I'll have a couple extra dollars and items

to list on Etsy! It's all very exciting!

Found on Etsy- andfurthermore

Warming You Up: DIY Scarves

2010-12-06T15:56:00.000-08:00

Ruffled Scarf found on Craftzine

I love Minnesota, but the fridged air blustering around

my neck is something I can do without.

Luckily there are scarves.

I love winter wear- cute boots, sweaters, hats, furry mittens,

soft leather gloves, wool jackets, soooo good and then you have scarves, sigh.

Here are 6 scarves you can make yourself to keep you and your loved

ones warm and toasty!

I can't wait to make the ruffled one! Which one do you want

keeping you warm? Have a DIY scarf idea?

I will definitely add it to the post.

Have a lovely evening!

Hand Printed Scarves on Curbly by Chrisjob

No Sew Ringlet on Thrifty Mama B

T-shirt Scarf found on Craftzine

Cute Cowl in I am Stylish

How to Knit a Pidge Scarf on Thread Banger

Off To Little Red Birds the Design Bee Goes!

2010-12-04T20:35:00.000-08:00

I love Design Bees, but does it make sense to call my blog that?

Probably not, which is fine, when I started I wasn't sure of the

direction and now I am. So, off to Little Red Birds Blog!

I will miss my little bumble bee, buzzing around the hive,

flitting from flower to flower......

About To Fly Out of the Studio!

2010-12-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

I just finished up a sweet little project!

My mom's church is having a silent auction

to help a family devastated by cancer and

the inability to obtain healthcare. So, I

thought I would make a little basket full of warmth

in these chilly winter months. I hope it brings in a lot

of money to aid in paying all those hospital bills.

My fingers are crossed!

It includes everything you need to warm you from head to toe:

A Blue Felted 100% Cashmere Hat with a 100% Wool Felt Flower
An Aqua Felted 100% Merino Wool Hot Water Bottle Cover with 100% Wool Flower and Antique Button
An Aqua Felted 100% Merino Wool Cup Cozy with 100% Wool Applique and Antique Button
A Reusable Ceramic Double Walled To-Go Cup
Hot Water Bottle
A Selection of Warm You Up Beverages

So Much To Sew, So Little Time!

2010-12-04T17:39:00.000-08:00

Thing have been very busy in my sewing room.

I've been buzzing around getting everything ready for

the art sale on December 11th.

If you are in town and want to stop by go to:

Exit Realty

1 Groveland Terrace, Suite 203

Minneapolis, MN

You can head a few steps down the hill and visit The Walker

Art Museum after you buy out the whole show.

My lovely lady friend Jacqueline Anthman is also selling

paintings at the show and is the one who got me a table there.

Thanks Jacque!

I think it's the perfect small venue for my first craft sale.

Hope to see you there!

Fabric Love

2010-12-04T17:27:00.000-08:00

I was taking a break from stitching up hats and flowers

for the art sale on December 11th and I found these.

I would love a summer wrap dress in green.

Oh summer, I miss you.

Want to sew up some thing cute out of one of

these dandies too, go here.

Before and After: The Living Room After!

2010-11-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

It still amazes me what a good coat of paint can really do.

The room is brighter, seems larger and fresh.

Although I wasn't a huge fan of the orange ceilling

when I first moved in, it's grown on me and looks good with

freshly creamed walls. Now all we need is a second coat of orange,

some curtains and what to do with that fireplace surround....

I hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving!

A Very Good Monday and the Living Room Before!

2010-11-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and the room pictured above was gone!

This weekend we painted the living room- it's so good!

Mustard walls and an orange ceiling are far too much for

one room! Once we put the room back, I will post a picture.

We painted one half of the room and then the other, which was

much easier than moving all of the furniture out.

I just found out I will be selling at an art fair mid December!

More details to come.....

Company will be here soon for the holiday and there is much to be done!

Can't wait to post the After living room picture!

Hope you're having a lovely day!

Peacock Font

2010-11-17T13:11:00.000-08:00

It's time to vote for Design Sponge's Design Your Own Font contest.

I love the peacock font. There's a very cheesy way to use peacock

feathers and an extremely lovely way to incorporate them into your work.

Sommer Sheffield's hand drawn Peacock font is amazing.

I can't wait to see more work from S.S. soon!

Love!

2010-11-14T19:15:00.000-08:00

I am smitten with this fabric!

It would be the cutest apron

and matching clothes pin bag.

It's by Michael Miller and called Bird Swing

That is all.

Have a lovely night!

Oh Dishes!

2010-11-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Mod Cloth

If I had to pick one chore to never complete again,

it would be the dishes. I avoid them like the plague,

well sorta, they need to be done, otherwise we might

brew up a new plague. I saw this adorable dish rack

on Mod Cloth and I am convinced it may or may not

encourage me to wash more dishes. Or maybe less dishes,

because it doesn't hold very many, but once we get a dishwasher

it would be perfect! And it would match the hanging fruit basket

we always forget to put fruit in!

The one below is fairly adorable too.
Hold on while I tie up my apron strings
there are dishes to place somewhere cute!
Hmmm, maybe a cute drainer wouldn't help
in my battle with the scum of my kitchen,
but would definitely look sweet peaking out from behind
a mound of dirty dishes.

A Few Lovely Bits: Mexican Otomi Textiles

2010-11-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

Cookie Magazine

I've been researching Mexico lately, my sweet's cousin is getting married

this spring in Mexico and we are attending the ceremony. It finally occurred

to me that I could buy a piece of that beautiful Otomi fabric. I love how

sweet and whimsical it is. I have an inkling that any room you placed it in would

immediately be much more fun and after an image search on the textile

I found that to be true.

Brighten up a room and invest in the future of traditional Mexican fabrics

by purchasing your very own slice of Central America by visiting

Mexican Textiles. Or luck out and find a beautiful

piece at a thriftstore for $20, like Ellie Snow of Mint

You could always take a lesson from Lena Corwin's Printing By Hand

and create your own stencil and paint your way to Mexico.

Then again you might want to just sit back and soak up the eye candy

and dream of ways to add some visual fun to your home.

Have a wonderful afternoon!

Coco+Kelley

Ellie Snow's Thrift Store Find- Mint

Lena Corwin- Printing By Hand

Window Display: Balloon Poodles

2010-11-10T13:21:00.000-08:00

I found this during a google image search today.

Love!

Anthropologie has a way of creating very interesting and

inexpensive window displays that I find utterly fascinating.

It reminds me of Jeff Koons' Balloon Dogs:

Adorable.

Urban Outfitters has a petite version for your
Christmas tree or any sweet spot in your home:

Have a lovely afternoon!

Contest: Stitched Up Halloween Costume Contest

2010-11-05T08:54:00.000-07:00

Halllooo!

Hope you had a wonderful Halloween!

My sweet was a goblin and I a peacock.

It's time to share your super spooky

Halloween costumes and stellar stitching skills.

Enter here and share your amazing homemade

costume. Here's mine.

Every peacock lady needs long lush lashes

and a peacock print dress she can wear year round!

Warming You Up: Colorful and Cozy

2010-11-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

What a welcome sight on such a cool, gray, fall day.

So many gorgous colors, such a simple design.

Now this is a blanket I could actually knit.

Knitting is not my forte. I can stitch up long

rectangles or scarves, so I figure I could manage a series

of them attached to each other!

You can either click on over to Purl Bee

to buy one of the color kits shown above

or wander around your favorite yarn store

and dream up a beautiful new blanket all your own.

If you're not much of a knitter either, just relax back

and enjoy the beautiful colors.

Have a lovely day!

Warming You Up: Toasty Toes and Leg Warmers

2010-10-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Buttoned Up Leg Warmers by Laupre

I was searching around for ways to keep you toasty

today and found two amazing tutorials on CraftyCrafty.

Laupre created a pair of adorable leg warmers reminicent of

the buttoned boots of the early 1900s to keeps your legs warm

during the cold winter months while you wear your favorite dresses.

She has a full tutorial on her blog and in about an hour you can be warm

and oh so cute while you head out for the day.

Welly Warmers by Sabbes

Keeping feet dry in the winter is of the utmost importance.

It's not only dangerous, but incredibly uncomfortable to be

walking around on tiny frozen digits. Sabbes created a solution

with their welly liner tutorial.

Warm and dry- a perfect way to spend a winter afternoon.

Have a cozy afternoon!