Gift Idea: Teams and Coaches

I wanted to share a recent creation.  I took several ideas I've seen floating around (mostly on Pinterest) and combined them to create these little gems:

I had fun playing with my new (and first) die sets.  Above, I've shown just a few of my favorite configurations of the team name, number, and player name.  For the players, we (Jack helped with this part) attached satin cord as an adjustable length necklace.  For the coaches, I just attached reclaimed handles from discarded paper bags (I love finding new uses for the gift and shopping bag handles, which I harvest whenever I see one destined for a landfill!)  On the pieces for the girls and ladies, I added some layers with glitter and sparkle (look closely at the pieces with the turquoise cording).  They are subtle, but in the light, they sparkle ever so nicely!

Here are the posts where I gleaned some of the ideas I used:
Washer Stamping and Filling the Letters with Sharpie
Washer Stamping and Filling
Paper Covered Washers
Painted Washers (I used Spray Paint and Permanent Marker to make the Baseballs, but started out with this as my idea source.)
Slip Knot Necklace (I tied the square knots three times each, because the satin code is so slippery, and I left the ends long to make them easier to grab and pull).

I added my own twist by applying a brush on acrylic in thick layers on the paper and painted surfaces.  Next time, I think I will find a two-part resin to layer on this type of item, because even a week after application, the product I used takes a mark when pressed firmly (with a finger nail, or even a rubber band).  Though, they are still smooth enough to serve their purpose here.

Oh!  One other thing, the knots on the necklaces.  I regularly look at JD Lenzen's Fusion Knotwork on his You Tube Channel, Tying it All Together.  I wound up watching several of his videos, then creating something that worked well for me.  I just looped the satin cording around and around, tying it different ways until I found one I thought was secure and nice to look at.

So.  That's it.  I used the above links.  Played a great deal, and created these fun pieces.  Now, to help my (almost) 13 year old niece make a set for her basketball team!

Upcycle Project: Toy Couch out of Box

This past week, after a full day of doctor's appointments, the boys wanted to go to the mall. We were to tired that night, but went the next day. Of course, you know that "the Mall" is code for Build-A-Bear Workshop and Game Stop. While there, Jack decided he liked the fold-out couch.

Jack was considering saving up the $20 to purchase it. During the week, Jack made a bed out of a small pillow, an empty storage basket, and a few of his favorite Fat Quarters of fabric (sheet and “blanket”).


Still, Jack kept talking about the actual couch. I got the idea to repurpose a sturdy box, that was just the perfect “couch” shape. Tonight, we took this Crest box (18”w x 9”h x 6.5”d), and designed the cushions for Jack’s Teddy Bear, “Babi”.


We drew and discussed at least four different cushion options before Jack decided that two cushions (like our own couch) were best, so the bear can “build a fort” with them later.

Jack helped choose the fabrics out of his scrap bag, and insisted the cushions needed zippers. We even had some zippers in his favorite color Jack “had” to have at a recent fabric store excursion. Jack handed me fabrics and snipped threads… when he got bored and started cutting into the pieces, Tom took him out to the garage and they picked out a color to spray paint the outside of the box.


By the time they came inside, the first cushion was ready to be stuffed… which Tom and Jack did with a bag of old rags.


The cushions are both made with the same fabrics, but are different on top and bottom so that Jack can flip them over depending on what mood his bear is in. I thought it was very interesting that Jack's Bear's Favorite Colors are Red, White, and Blue (which are quite different than Jack's favorites of Red, Green, and Orange). Notice that some of Jack's favorite colors still made it into the cushions.


The only thing missing are the throw pillows that Jack insists Babi needs… perhaps we’ll make those tomorrow.


All in all, a fun project and I am so glad that I finished it within a day of thinking of it, and in just about 2.5 hours, start-to-finish of actual production time.

Travel Game Boxes

Last night I came up with an idea which I had a blast executing today. I've been playing a lot of educational dice games lately with my boys and my nieces. I tend to see my nieces at restaurants, and as such, we have a hard time keeping the dice from flying off the table. This idea of mine helps contain the dice AND a deck of cards, as well as a pencil. I'm certain (given enough time) I will even find little pads of paper to fit in here.


I want to share the idea AND how to make them. As such, here's a little tutorial, complete with a surprise at the end.

Travel Game Box Tutorial

A quick gift to put together and give to kids and adults alike. Anyone who enjoys playing basic card and dice games will enjoy this little travel set.

Difficulty: Easy (although an adult should work with the hot glue)

Time to Make: Under 30 minutes.

Cost: Under $4 each.

Materials:

• Small Pencil Box (I used tin "Catch All Cases" from Hobby Lobby, which measures 3" x 8" x 1.5")
• Felt Square
• Hot Glue

Suggested Contents to Fill:

• Deck of Cards
• 6 Dice (nearly all dice games I've found can be managed with this number)
• Pencil
• Paper
• Instruction Sheet

Supplies:

• Scrap Paper
• Ball Point Ink Pen
• Scissors
• Rotary cutting supplies (optional)
• Hot Glue Gun

Instructions:

1. Gather your supplies. I went to Hobby Lobby for the "Catch All Cases" and the felt. (By the way, you could certainly make this item out of any size box that will hold a deck of cards and some dice.) Then I shopped the $1 Stocking Stuffer Bins at Michael's for my playing cards and dice. I spent a total of $21 and made six tins. (I did use three decks of cards and pencils I already had on hand.)




2. Cut a rough template out of scrap paper to fit into the base and lid of your container. My template measures a hair under 3" x 7 7/8". For curved corners, find an object that approximately follows your curve, then use it to trace the shape onto the corners.





3. Once your fit is right, measure the actual size and cut the felt to match.



4. If needed, trace the rounded corners onto the wrong side of the felt with a ball point pen.



5. Trim the corners.



6. Check the fit in the item, then glue into place. When using the hot glue on the cooler tins, I found it best to apply glue around the edge of the felt, then quickly (and carefully) place the felt in, pressing to adhere. This step really should be overseen (or done) by an adult... and even then, there are no guarantees that the Hot Glue Gun Operator will walk away burn free.



7. Admire how nice your cards and dice look in the box!



8. Test roll a few dice, and pretend to play a game, where you set your "keep" dice up on the ridge so you can see them. Smile at how clever you are!



9. Fill the tin with all the other lovely goodies (I included a cute little "winter" button in these tins... which has nothing to do with the game tin, but was a fun way to give the item out.)

While I now realize I was able to link to the tins online, I did take this special picture of the label just for you, so, here is the information if you were wondering who creates the boxes I used. That would be "The Tin Box Company".


And now for that surprise... here is the PDF I created with a dozen different dice games.

Dice Games Booklet

You can print it (double sided) then trim a bit off each edge (about 1/4"-1/2"). It will fold up quite nicely to give you an assortment of dice game ideas.

Of course I'd love to know if you use this tutorial (and see pictures of your projects) but even if you don't, you may enjoy this set of dice rules.

In the spirit of giving credit where credit is due, I adapted the rules for these rules from the following sources: activityvillage.co.uk, ehow.com, and grandparents.com.

I also wanted to share my original use for these fun tins.


Over the summer we moved, and I needed to put together a new little kit of sewing notions. Now that I've got my things out of storage, this handy little kit STILL sits right by my computer & sewing area. I love how it has everything I need just right there... even a little sweet should a sweet tooth attack!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!

added 25 Dec 2010
By the way... the Creative Spark for this idea came after reading a post on Sara vs Sarah about Joe's Stuff... specifically the cigar box for the Paris, France Journal. Thanks to Sarah Meland for the great ideas and help keeping the creative juices flowing!!!

"Vampire Tooth" Tooth Fairy Pillow

Jack putting his First Tooth Lost in the brand new Tooth Fairy Pillow.


The mouth is open along the top for the tooth to go in. He was also quite specific about the placement and shape of the eyes.

The fang shaped "Vampire Tooth" is TOTALLY his pattern design. I had something MUCH different in mind, but it is his pillow.


On the back, we used a bit of blue and black batik fabric. Thanks to Becky for the fabric for this little project!

Sock Puppet

Recently I've saved a few socks for something crafty.

Friday, Jack and I read a story ("If you give a Moose a Muffin" by Laura Joffe Numeroff) and in it the Moose made sock puppets. Since then, Jack has wanted to make some too...


Tom and Frank were out, so I took the opportunity to work with Jack on it. He picked the sock, cut the shapes and choose the yarn colors. I put the needle in and held while he pulled the yarn through. I also felt really good about doing a project with him, while it was fresh in our minds.

There are still boxes all around, but I was able to put my finger on the supplies AND put the things in my mind (unpacking boxes, prepping for a trip, surgery, etc.) aside in order to grasp some of those fleeting moments of childhood and spend a little time with my little-one. It makes me feel good and happy.


PS: This sock puppet also works well to make "Dragon Punches" (when worn on the hand), "Dragon Kicks" (when worn on the foot), and "Dragon Tickles" (when worn by Daddy!)

Knitted Toy

I've started and finished my first One Day Knitting Project!!!


I used the free Teeny Tiny Knitted Toys pattern by Little Cotton Rabbits as found on Ravelry .

I intended to make a rabbit, and did follow the stitch count instructions, but the ears wound up looking like a mouse or pig's ears, so I've changed my mind and made this a "Gloomy Day Piglet".

I was thinking of making a rabbit for Frank and a bear for Jack for while I'm gone in Cheyenne... this one took me about four hours, in part because I knitted the limbs into the body as I went instead of stitching them on at the end. I really do want to make a rabbit, so I'm sure I'll be doing it again soon...

Flip-Flop Knitting

I've been knitting so much this week that my hands have literally dropped the needles. I've also been enjoying knitting as never before. Why then is everything feeling like it's flopping and needs to be frogged (a knitting term for ripping something out, you know "rip-it, rip-it")? Do I dare rip all my work out and start over?


My Swyaze Socks. My socks, mine. The first is ready to bind off, and guess what... they don't fit. I can't get them on. So, do I send them off to an Aunt and mourn my lost yarn or do I frog them and mourn the lost sock and time?


My Sunrise, Sunset Shawl. I LOVED the first yarn. I don't like the second. I've also realized I just don't have enough yarn to finish the pattern the way I've done it. So, do I frog a whole 170+ yards and change the pattern? Do I add the first color back in? Do I keep going and see how big it is, then add more of the darker color at the end, by the faded color?


Why do I expect *everything* to be perfect? Can't I just let something go and be imperfect? Would I be able to enjoy the finished object, or would it ALWAYS bother me?


On a positive note, I am making progress on some projects for my Mom and her friend's costumes for the Arizona Renaissance Festival. They run a play place for kids called "Toy Island", and all three members of the troop wear red and yellow. I'm working on quilted hats, knitted mitts, and here is one of the crocheted scarves for them...


Thanks for listening to my rambling. Last week I was so excited by my knitting and this week it all feels like a flop! ;P

Shawl-itation

I've been busy knitting a shawl for the past four days. Now, it's time to add the second color and I'm hesitating. Here's the planned skein wound up and sitting in the middle of the shawl-in-progress.


The yarn I'm using is wool. I do have a similar weight of acrylic of each color already in there (hot pink, turquoise, and purple).

What do you think?

Should I abandon my multi-color project and fiber content to keep a consistent color palette?

Should I just go with the original plan and see what happens?

Polymer Play

While I've been resting with knitting and photo editing; Tom and the boys tried their hands at their first Polymer Clay Project, using some well-written Dragon Embryo instructions from the DadCanDo website.

Here's my montage of the project:

They plan to paint their creations this weekend.

I thought this day would never come...

You know the one? The one where I'm enjoying and looking forward to time spent knitting. The day where I'm shirking other responsibility (like cooking and cleaning and talking with people) just so I can sit and knit! Yeah, that's the day I never expected to see. It's ONLY taken me 25 months of diligently performing my Domestic Duty of knitting to stumble upon The Project. The one with the perfect yarn and the perfect needles and the perfect me!

Since I hurt my back over Thanksgiving weekend, I've been required to do a whole lot of resting. After talking with my friend Marie about a shawl (Show Your Colors by Spunky Eclectic) we saw at her former LKS (local knitting shop), and how much she loves her finished version, I dug around in my stash and found some Sport Weight Lorna's Laces Wool Yarns I'd bought in California last Fall.


I've since started the shawl, which I intend to use all three color-ways (called: Child's Play, Apple Hill, and Uptown). I'll be knitting them progressing from dark to light (or right to left in the picture). And I just LOVE making it! It's the first knitting project I've worked on that I WANT to do (not just NEED to), know what I mean?

{the above is a photo of the test swatch, not the shawl}

This morning, Tom said "What are you doing?", then looked over to find my head literally bobbing along in time with my stitches. It was so subtle I didn't even realize I was doing it. I was just in a groove and smiling as I stitched away. This is my biggest project so far, and I know it will feel slower going as I move along, but I hope I can keep up my enjoyment with it and that I'll love the finished product as much as I am enjoying making it!


I also love watching the way the color pools together... look how it coagulated perfectly on my needle on this row.


By the way, it's quite a bit bigger now, this photo was from two days ago. ;)

What are you doing on your holidays?

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This is my 400th blog post, and somewhat by the way of noting it, I've updated the blog format AND, ***FINALLY***, created my own blog header. Anyone recognize the objects used in the photo? Mayhap I'll send a prize (I've been cleaning out my sewing studio and I have collected a nice little bag of goodies) out to someone who knows from whence the objects come. I'll give you until noon on New Year's Day to figure it out and leave a comment! ;)

Making a Mermaid Tail

I just saw this wonderful little tutorial on making a mermaid tail and had to share.

Photo from Elegant Bloggery

It's times like these that I wish we had a daughter!

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5:53pm - HEY!!! I *JUST* realized I could make the boys MerMAN fins!


Give them a pitch fork and crown so they could be "King Triton".


In the background, I hear Tom saying "it was at that point, Your Honor, I was forced to kill her..."

Knitting & Crochet - Finishing Spree

Today I can pat myself on the back… I went on a little finishing spree and tied the ends into twelve different projects. I did it, while babysitting, during nap time. It only took a few minutes and now a feel a fresh breath of knitting air… not to mention my knitting bags now have ROOM in them again! Yeah me!!! :D

The neighbor girl is modeling for me...


This funky little "Faux" Scarf (Bento by Berroco #255 Design)...


When I was in Pleasanton, CA, last year, I liked the pattern and the yarn. Now that I've made the scarf (eleven months later) I'm not sure why I liked it so much. Hmm. In any case, it was always destined to be a gift since it really is a lightweight little decoration, and here, in Wyoming, we need REAL scarves! If anyone is in love with this, you should let me know... perhaps you'll find it in your mailbox!

I struggled to finish this silly Superman washcloth for MONTHS!


I've decided I should just crochet my dishclothes / washclothes.

I can pump these little coasters (or dishclothes) out SO FAST ... as long as I'm crocheting them.


Actually, while I'm at this Yarn Posting, would you like to know how to make these little crocheted gems? It's really very simple, but I have written it down for you...

Quick Crocheted Coaster
With a bit of scrap cotton and a 6mm (G) hook you can quickly make a pile of coasters for yourself (or, I like to give them as a Hostess Gift).

Approximate Finished Size 4¼" Diameter

1. CH 6.
2. Connect to first chain with CH making a loop.
3. Add SC in back loop (one or two per chain as needed to keep flat).
Make six continuous rounds (like a snail).
4. CH in next SC. Cut a 2” tail and weave into back of coaster.

Here's another knitted cloth... took me FOREVER!


My favorite part of the Red, White, and Blue "Tribble" is the picture with the little hands holding it. I had Jack kneel (he had black fleece pants on today), in the sunlight, and I took a flash-free close up photo with my new camera. I think it's a nice photo! :D

Summer Flies

Summer is rapidly approaching and anyone with pets knows this means one thing...

...shedding!

This is the fur from less than 10 minutes spent brushing our two year old cat. The one year old cat ventured over to see what we were up to, but was more interested in licking the brush than being brushed. Plus, she still has kitten fur, so her little tuft of black is small.

To borrow an idea from Marie, I have a Nifty Thrifty Idea for you...

My Dad use to Fly Fish. My Mom use to tie him custom flies. The best flies she ever made included fur from our Siamese, much like this big pile of fluff I've got. Whenever she made a fly with fur from Dusty, it only lasted a cast or two before being gobbled up.

Now, whenever I brush my cat I feel GUILTY about throwing away all that Great Fur! I've even thought of selling the fluff online, but always talk myself out of it.

Today, I saved all that fur in a container.

Here's my proposal to you... if you fly fish and would like to try some flies made with cat fur.... go brush your cat / neighbor's cat / etc. BUT! If you don't have access to a cat, PayPal me $0.82 (to pay postage and PayPal Fees) and I'll drop some fur in an envelope and send it to you. Then, you'll have to let us know if cat fur on your flies works as well for you as it always did on the flies my Mom made.

If you'd like some Free Cat Fur for Fly Fishing Flies, PayPal eighty-two cents to me at me at leavemealone {at} yours {dot} com, along with your address, and I'll send some right over to you!

Kids Art Project - Pokémon Valentine

Frank and I came up with (what I think are) some pretty clever Valentine's for this year.

Frank likes Pokémon. Frank likes Pokémon A LOT. In order to keep Frank from starting to purchase and collect cards, I spent several months last year diverting his attention by having him MAKE his own cards.

This year, while designing other Pokémons, we thought it would be fun to make a Valentine Pokémon... there are plenty of ideas here:

• Heart Attack
• Cardiac Arrest
• Love Bug
• Straight to the Heart
• Luv Needle (Frank's Creation)
  

Frank designed the card. I designed the envelope. Jack assembled the envelopes. Here's the finished product:




I realize it's a little late to make these for a class party, but there's still time to make a few for friends / family ON Valentine's Day...

If you'd like to do this, here's what you need:

• two sheets plain printer paper
• one sheet card stock
• 1/2 sheet white construction paper
• 3" x 5" scrap red construction paper
• drawing supplies
  
• black marker
• glue
  
• scanner
• printer (if you don't have color, draw in black and white, then color after printing)
  

Here are the templates I've made, please feel free to use them to make your own cards.
Here's how we make the cards and envelopes:

1. Print out the lined page, as well as several "blank" pages. Then, stack them together with the lined page underneath a blank page.
2. Draw picture of imagined Pokémon.
3. Fill in the name, "hit points" and other information.
   
4. Scan into the computer.
5. Pull it into Adobe Photoshop, where you can clean up any stray eraser marks or "mistakes". You can also intensify / adjust the colors.
6. Reduce the cards to proper size (2 1/2" wide x 3 1/4" tall).
   
7. Print nine per page on cardstock.
8. You may either design a card back, or find an image online to use, then print the second side before cutting.

Envelope:

1. Fold a sheet of white construciton paper so the edges meet in the middle. The finished size should be about 5" from fold to fold. Trim almost a 5" circle, being sure to leave about 1.5" of the folds intact. (If this step sounds confusing, take a look at the second photograph, with the open envelope and the card tucked inside.)
   
2. Set the white circle over the red paper, lining up the edge of the red with the center of the circle. Trim the red to match the circle shape.
3. Cut about a 1" circle out of a white scrap.
4. Draw a black line around the small circle.
5. Glue the side edges on the bottom half of the circle together. This makes the inside pocket. I only glued the top of the sides (not the bottom of the curve); just incase my card was a little big for the envelope.
6. Glue the red flap to the outside front.
7. Glue the white dot with the black outline to the center front (only glue the half that touches the red).
8. Let the glue dry, the put the card in the envelope.
9. If desired, write a name on the back of the envelope.
10. Deliver. :D

This would also work well to make invitations to a Pokémon Party.

I'd love to see your efforts if you make use of this fun little project.