Cozy up and Enjoy your Coffee featuring Kunin® Felt and hand embroidery

Enjoy working with Kunin Felt

When the opportunity to join the DCC blog hop featuring Kunin Felt was offered to me, I jumped at the chance to work with this ecofriendly, made in the USA felt!  I love to work with felt but so many of the craft felts disappoint as they are thinner and do not hold up well with embroidery. Also, being allergic to wool takes me out of the market to embroider with the beautiful rainbow of colors that wool offers.  Upon receiving my envelope of felt goodness, I immediately knew this was no ordinary craft felt.  Here’s a little more information from Debra Quartermain, Design Lead from Kunin Felt Product-

“Kunin Felt recycles billions of water bottles every year that would otherwise be in the landfills and makes them into a product which becomes felt.  12 bottles equal 1 lb. of felt.  The felt is weather resistant and fade proof, great for outdoor décor. You can even line your garden beds or patio with it, weed free!  The felt diecuts beautifully.  You can even emboss it and stamp on it.”

 

Beautiful colors

As I took out the Classicfelt and the Premiumfelt, I knew this {felt} felt good in my hands, so it was going to make a great cozy to wrap around my coffee mug/tumbler which is where my hands are every morning around 5 am! I decided to run the felt through my Sizzix Big Shot and create my own embellishments and sentiment for my cozy. The Premium felt in smoke, was the perfect base piece to make the cozy and with new seasons approaching, I decided to cut leaves, a teacup and ‘Enjoy’ along with a few hearts to share my love of coffee, embroidery and Kunin Felt.  This project was a work of heart and also was finished in an evening. I love this felt so much that I am working on the second one and will hopefully keep adding to my coffee love with cozies and Kunin Felt! Pour a cup of joe, and let’s get started making a cozy –you might even be finished before your second cup!

I had the beads ready but decided I liked the
embroidery without the beads!

 

This felt die cuts with ease.
I loved the stitching the leaves!

Gather

9” x 12” Classicfelt in Olive, White, Baby Pink, Baby Blue

12” x 18” Premiumfelt in Smoke

Cozy pattern*

Sizzix dies in Harvest Pumpkin, Primitive Hearts

Spellbinders die – ‘Enjoy’

Provo Craft die - Hearts

Fabric scissors

DMC embroidery floss – white, 470, 519, 605

Embroidery needle, scissors

Sewing machine

Sewing thread in Black

Pins

 *If you are interested in this pattern, email  me at  chantal515@verizon.net with cozy pattern in the subject and I will send you a pdf that you can print out on heavy card stock paper for you very own use.

Make

1.     Place cozy pattern on Smoke. Pin in place and cut.

2.     Die cut leaves, teacup, hearts and ‘Enjoy’ with Sizzix Big Shot.

Arrange pieces in the center of the cozy

3.     Once, all pieces are cut, find center of cozy and begin to pin all pieces in place.

Close up of embroidery stitches

4.     For the leaves, use 2 strands of DMC 470 and the stem stitch to outline/highlight the inner part of the leaves.

5.     For ‘Enjoy’, use 2 strands of 519 placing French knots on the letters to secure.

6.     With DMC in white and the running stitch, stich around the teacup

7.     With DMC 605, add a few French knots to the mini heart inside the teacup.

8.     Once the front is completed, pin the ends right side together, and with the sewing machine, straight stitch to create a ¼” seam and create the cozy. Turn rightside out.

The back is as pretty as the front!

9.     With DMC 605, secure the larger heart to the back with French knots

Until next time, slip your finished cozy around a delicious cup of coffee and sit back and admire your handiwork! While you are relaxing, be sure to check out more projects using Kunin Felt on the DCC blog

Cozy up with a wonderful cup of coffee or tea!

Bibs, Blues and Banners - A DIY Baby Shower Part Two

In my earlier post (Part 1),  the baby shower we celebrated was a beautiful blend of ideas and inspirations for sweet baby Logan!  When all the pictures are taken at the shower, it captures the celebration but it doesn't share the preparation and the work (albeit enjoyed).  In Part two of this DIY series, I want to share with you a few projects and plans we made before the actual event, give you tips and ideas on how to create a one of a kind celebration and how to put your own personal touch to the day.

Use a square plate or a basket to collect the wishes

Let's get started with the preparation.  Our shower was to be held in July.  The timeline for invitations, whether email, evite or snail mail, the invitations need to be given 5-6 weeks in advance. So this means getting the guest list is one of the top priorities in preparation.  For our shower, we actually did both paper invitations from tiny prints and evites through paperless post.  We chose to send both because first, not all guests respond to emails (think older like great-grandmothers) and through emails, you can send reminders.  It's a win-win for everybody.  We also chose tiny prints as they had more of the design styles we liked and also we were printing "Wishes for Baby" that coordinated with the paper invitations. We chose "Wishes for Baby" instead of advice for the new momma so it would remain positive and encouraging.  Use a square plate or a basket to hold the wishes and for a fun touch, I ordered Sharpie markers in the coordinating blue from amazon.



The first project was the mantle...Banners are the theme of the day. Whether they are burlap, paper or fabric; they become the focal point of the room, the celebrations.  Sometimes when the banners are hung from a mantle, the everyday decor is removed and nothing is added or the decor is still there but doesn't coordinate and compliment the banner.  To redecorate a mantle can be costly and frankly, you may love your mantle decor. I know I love mine!!  For celebrations, we want to find easy, inexpensive and elegant.  So here's what we did....

The Mantle was created with treasure {thrift} store vases, glass jars, glass candle holders and Krylon Sea Glass Spray. We gathered several jars and vases that were different in shape and size.  Using the sea glass spray in blue created harmony between all the glass.  Here are a few tips on spray painting glass--

*Use a box larger than the jars/vases and turn the box on it's side to create a back drop to catch the spray.
*Spray in a slow, continuous motion.
*Use several light coats to build up color.  let dry in between sprays.
*You can spray a sealer but it is not necessary.
*Turn the jar by reaching in the opening of the jar and moving it.
*Try not to touch the jar when wet; it will remove the paint and you will need to respray.

I found at the blue candlesticks at Hope's Closet in Florida- a beautiful treasure {thrift} store that benefits missions in Africa and around the world.  No matter where I am, I try to visit these stores and hope to find treasures as well as helping others.  The candles were the battery operated ones that had an ombre look.   Seashells were added as they are always a part of my home!! And the silver platter - always on the mantle and yes, it came from a treasure store!! Project one and done!!

Stay tuned for Part three of the Bibs, Blues and Banners which will feature an etched mirror, appliqués bibs and more.

Until next time, I hope you found treasure that just might need a little spray of color!!!

Start saving for Pumpkin Spice Lattes with your very own #psl bank featuring Mason jar makeovers with etchall® creme

It's almost #PSL coffee time!!

With Fall fast approaching, so is #PSL season...Pumpkin Spice Latte for those of you who have forgotten the new flavor of Autumn.  Forget apples and caramel, Bring on the #PSL!!  To get ready for the anticipated arrival, I designed my very own #psl savings bank using a repurposed jar, a mason jar lid fitted with the coin slot accessory, stencils  and the most wonderful etching creme and liquid, etch all® creme and dip 'n etch®.  I am so honored to be on the etchall® Design Team where I can share, teach and hopefully inspire you too.

a close-up of the charms

This was such a fun project to make and shows the ease in which to transform an ordinary jar into one with extraordinary purpose...saving for the cool, crisp days of autumn and enjoying lattes by the fire...who am I kidding?  In Texas, it still will be hot and we will be in summer clothes but the lattes will still be enjoyed...Let's gather our supplies and get started.


Gather


Smooth jar that can be fitted with a mason jar lid
Mason jar band
Coin slot accessory, available here
etchall® creme, available here 
etchall® dip 'n etch,  available here 
etchmask, available here
Diecutting machine
Pumpkin dies
alphabet stencils
Plastic container
marker
marbles- to be used as weights

Pendant glass with metal frame, available in jewelry department of your local craft stores
Mesh Ribbon
Paper flowers
jute ribbon
Glue gun, glue sticks

Create

Using a die cut machine such as a Big Shot or Cricut, cut out pumpkin stencils and the appropriate initials.  Remove the negative space and place on the jar.  We are creating the resist- the area that is not to be etched.

Measuring  and marking

Place jar filled with marbles into a plastic container (marked for etching only).  Fill with water to the the desired etching height. Remove jar.

marking with a sharpie the level needed of dip"n etch

Using a marker, mark the level of water.  Pour out the water and dry the inside of the container.  The marked line will be the measurement for  the dip 'n etch liquid.

The Magic is happening!!

Pour the liquid in the container and then set jar (filled with marbles) inside.  Set timer for 15 minutes After the 15 minutes, take the jar out and rinse under warm water to remove any liquid.  Pour all the dip 'n etch back into the original jar.  ***Rmember it's reusable!!!**

Make a "Re-Use" sign to help remember to reuse!!

For the initial charms, adhere stencil to clean glass squares. Tape down onto a non stick craft mat.  Spread etchall® creme onto the stencil.  Be sure to cover generously.  Set time for 15 minutes. Once time is through, return creme to the original jar.  Rinse the stenciled glass under warm water before removing the stencils.  Then remove stencils and dry with a towel.

Etching the tiny initials!!

Following directions, assemble the metal square frame around the glass and adhere the flowers as desired.

side view of jar

Assemble the jar lid and place onto the jar.  Wrap ribbon mesh around the jar and tie in a knot.  Adhere flowers as desired.

Using jute, tie the charms in a banner to go around the jar lid.  Wrap the jute banner around the jar lid and tie securely.

The stencils were created with the Circuit™ Machine

Now search all pockets, purses and drawers for change to fill your #psl bank and let the good times fall in to place as you prepare for the new season that is almost upon us.

Here are a few more photos...this was a bit challenging to photograph..but hopefully you can see all 4 sides of the jar, the charms and even my Coffee sign!!

Overview

Another side view

Love my Coffee sign!!

the pumpkin is perfect surrounded by etched glass

getting ready to etch

Covering the the creme and setting the timer, along with
my friendly reminder to reuse my etchall®

Until Next Time,  make the most of the summer moments and get ready to savor the flavors of Fall!!

Mark My Words --Creating a 6 Strand Tassel Bookmark featuring SRM Devotional Stamps

Beautiful Words to hold the special places in the Word

Welcome to the DCC blog hop!  I am so glad you stopped by today for some inspiration. Be sure to check out all the other blogs in the hop for great ideas and inspiration as  we feature SRM and a few of their fantastic lines for scrapbooking and Bible journaling.  I had the pleasure of receiving a set of clear stamps entitled Daily Devotions from SRM. (Thank you SRM!!!)  It is filled with words of encouragement, affirmation, study and thought.  The words immediately brought to mind so many scriptures and beautiful hymns...His Grace is sufficient…You are a chosen people,... Seek and you shall find.. Abide with me…The steadfast Love of the Lord never ceases...Come let us adore him… and so much more.  So, I knew I had to use as many as I could!!!  They are so tiny, well-made and perfect for oh so many areas in our journaling and paper art life!!  

cutest little word with a big impact

Gathering words is a joy of mine as I have words throughout my home, my art and my jewelry... These words from the stamp collection truly speak to me. Whatever I created I wanted to be visual and that I could see not just on one page of my Bible but perhaps throughout. I remembered a bookmark that I had purchased for my daughter with different color ribbons almost like a tassel…this sparked my creativity and I set out to gather all the supplies, stamps and ribbon.  This bookmark can hold, not just one place but 6 different places. For me, I thought that it could hold verses that hold special meaning of the words I have chosen. To me, however, the most important ones will be dangling outside my Bible, with the words Choose Jesus.  Let’s get started creating our bookmark…

A close-up of the words

Let’s Gather…

-Muslin strips*- I found these as a beauty supply store. They are for brow waxing, so they come precut and very inexpensive-absolutely perfect!!!

-Small scraps of fabric

-Fabri-Tac by Beacon Adhesive or you could use your sewing machine

-Thin ribbon, in desired lengths

-StaZon Ink, Black

-Faith Stamp collection by SRM

-Acrylic Block for stamps

-Silver head pins (2)

-Glass beads (6)

-Silver Charm, Bird

-Scissors

-Round nose pliers

Let’s Create…

The words

           Place muslin strips on a paper pad.  Select words and place on an acrylic block (1 at a time).  Ink and practice on the paper pad, then stamp onto fabric.  Stamp the word 2 times leaving a space for the fold between each word.  Set aside

Stamped muslin strips

Trim word and using Fabri-Tac, adhere the words to the fabric scraps.  Set aside to dry.

Using small charm squares, its easy to fit two word strips
and then cut to size.

               Once dry, trim the fabric around, leaving a small border to show. 

Measuring to cut the fabric strips

Marked and ready to trim

The tassel

The bookmark on top of the Bible 

      Measure your Bible or the book that this bookmark will reside.  Add the desired length for the part that will dangle from the bottom and top of the book. 

In this photo, I have already attached the beads and the charm

       For a six stranded Bible, double the measurement from step 1. Cut 3 strips and fold in half; Cut one strip for “Choose Jesus” and cut one 8-12” piece of ribbon to secure the tassel.

      Lay the 3 strands on a flat surface and using the 4^th strip, place that at the middle, wrapping under the 3 strands.  Grab all 6 strands, leaving the 4^th to be the topper.  With the small piece of ribbon, wrap several times around the top of the 6 strands and tie with a knot. *Do not trim as this is where you bead dangles will go.  Set aside.

The Bead Dangles

The bird charm is slipped onto the shorter piece of ribbon, tied and then
the bead dangles are placed and knotted.

       On the silver head pin, thread 3 small glass beads.  Using round nose pliers, create a loop at the top and bring the wire around the head pin to secure.  Repeat with other head pin and beads.

      String the beaded head pins onto the smaller ribbon that tied the top of the tassel.

Putting it all together

1  Take one completed fabric strip and fold in half;

   Lay one strand of ribbon inside the center of the fold, with Fabri-Tac glue edges together.

Using Fabric-Tac to secure.

Folding in half; press to spread the glue.

All 6 words completed

      Set aside.  Repeat with all fabric word strips. 

·    **If using a sewing machine, use a pin to hold placement of the ribbon and sew the 3 edges of the folded fabric strip.  Repeat with all fabric word strips.

Words to live by

Here are a few of my favorite scriptures that hold a special place in my Bible as well as in my heart.

Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

Proverbs 4:13- Hold on to instruction, do not let go; guard it well, for it is your life.  –affirm

Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

Psalm 100:4 – Enter his gates with thanksgiving in my heart and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

Philippians 4:8- Finally, ...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Hebrews 11:1- Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.


Until next time,   I hope you'll find the words that bring hope and healing, joy and love... and  then write or stamp them on your he{art}...


Chantal