tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837551516329395062024-03-05T19:55:12.676-05:00Stamps and Stitchesgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.comBlogger263125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-79081084268428091042018-03-24T19:45:00.000-04:002018-03-24T19:51:08.939-04:00Ham it Up Birthday card (testing)Just testing to see if I can somehow transfer my instagram posts to here without too much trouble.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BM7_qnnBKte/" data-instgrm-version="8" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BM7_qnnBKte/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Gale (@gale65)</a> on <time datetime="2016-11-18T04:04:29+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 17, 2016 at 8:04pm PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
stamps: My Favorite Things<br />
markers: Copic<br />
patterned paper: Unknown<br />
cardstock: Stampin Up<br />
dies: Spellbinders and Simon Says Stampgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-19033523875103976702016-07-27T04:09:00.001-04:002016-07-27T04:17:55.410-04:00Happy to be Stuck With You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-CrJCqhd/0/O/mftsweetsucculents1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-CrJCqhd/0/O/mftsweetsucculents1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
stamps: My Favorite Things Sweet Succulents</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
paint: Peerless Watercolors</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
patterned paper: My Mind's Eye</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
cardstock: Gina K (kraft), Stampin Up (green and red)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
dies: My Favorite Things</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
card sketch: Freshly Made Sketches</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-62740080475369061462016-07-27T04:03:00.000-04:002016-07-27T04:19:04.925-04:00Hello Beautiful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-g693xJ3/0/O/ssshellobeautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-g693xJ3/0/O/ssshellobeautiful.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
stamps: Simon Says Stamp Spring Flowers, Hero Arts Hello Stamp and Cut<br />
markers: copic<br />
stitched rectangle die: lil inkers designs<br />
patterned paper: Imaginisce<br />
cardstock: Stampin Upgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-33998337176147630452016-06-26T01:18:00.002-04:002016-06-26T01:18:39.810-04:00Mini zipper pouches<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-vsRjdRD/0/O/zippouchesjp.jpg" /><br />
<br />
made with various Japanese fabrics<br />
<a href="http://www.dogundermydesk.com/2012/10/neat-n-tidy-zippered-pouches/" target="_blank">click here for the tutorial</a>
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-T8F7H9C/0/O/minipouches.jpg" /><br />
<br />
fabric: Sophie by Moda<br />
<a href="http://so-sew-easy.com/teeny-tiny-mini-zipper-pouch/" target="_blank">click here for the tutorial</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-84928424615102257632016-06-25T00:50:00.000-04:002016-07-27T04:19:33.571-04:00Bistro Table Runner<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-GTnLhSf/0/O/coffeerunner.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Pattern: Ooh La Latte by Pieces from my Heart<br />
Fabric: Bistro by Moda Fabricsgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-69712419210733376922015-03-26T04:48:00.001-04:002019-04-06T13:35:34.787-04:00Quilt block clockMy sister sent me this pattern and I thought it would look so cute in my sewing room. Unfortunately this means I won't be able to use the "I lost track of time" excuse when I'm sewing anymore. The clock is 12" square and I used a scrapbook frame for it (minus the glass). I made a dresden plate block using the Easy Dresden ruler. After adding the center circle I quilted a wonky spiral in the center, around each petal of the dresden plate, and echo quilted the background, using the edge of the presser foot as a guide (it's a wide presser foot). The fabric is Moda's Sophie and white Kona cotton. It was a lot of fun to make-almost instant gratification. Plus it's useful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-2z5XD7q/0/O/dresdenclock.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-DB5BLDW/0/be6684d2/O/dresdenclocksm.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-28306742719828836812015-02-07T15:30:00.001-05:002019-04-06T13:40:00.663-04:00Christmas tree skirtI finished this tree skirt in record time-about 2 days before Christmas. Maybe 3. At first I thought of it as a small project that I could get done really quickly. Then I realized it's the size of a lap quilt. But somehow I got it done. I used a layer cake from Moda called Twelve Days of Christmas and a free tutorial from the Moda Bake Shop called <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2010/06/fruitcake-under-my-tree.html" target="_blank">Fruitcake Under My Tree</a>. I didn't want to use yardage for the setting triangles so I sewed extra layer cake squares together for that. I LOVE it even though my seam matching leaves a lot to be desired. The binding fabric is some yardage by Robert Kaufman. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-q29LFv5/0/O/treeskirt1.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-GZGcRPS/0/58c55234/O/treeskirt1sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
and under our little tree (our last real tree-we bought a fake one after Christmas)<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2015a/i-8MD29Z9/0/O/treeskirt2.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-VwjjpPQ/0/d6e5f028/O/treeskirt2sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-40439622500537573762014-12-24T20:42:00.000-05:002019-04-06T13:59:51.013-04:00Merry Christmas!! Wishing all of my blog readers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-ds4M2Pn/0/571f4778/O/cardforweb.jpg" width="450" /><br />
ingredients:<br />
Daisy<br />
Fur trapper's hat from Target<br />
Sparky<br />
Santa Hat and collar from Target<br />
"Merry" alphabet and ornaments: Crystal Wilkerson<br />
"Christmas" font: Milkshake galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-22069045975343418222014-11-24T20:40:00.000-05:002019-04-06T14:06:52.815-04:00Stenciled wall rack<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-ZcnCKQq/0/O/bikerack1.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-VhgNFgj/0/cfab7928/O/bikerack1sm.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm still in the process of organizing and decorating my craft room-this is a wall rack I made to hold a few necessities. I took a piece of 1 x 4 wood and painted it pink. Then I downloaded the free <a href="http://www.dafont.com/sepeda.font" target="_blank">Sepeda dingbat font</a> and installed it so that I could use it with Silhouette Studio. I used that along with my Silhouette SD to cut the bike out of vinyl, flipping one horizontally, then used it as a stencil to paint the bikes in off white (I think it's called Parchment). Then I drilled some holes and added fancy glass knobs from Home Depot along with a few hanging jars from the Target dollar spot (made for candles). Perfect storage for some of my goodies!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-BdhKqBN/0/O/bikerack2.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-7HNbRkH/0/17f3061a/O/bikerack2sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-ppwNjzP/0/O/bikerack3.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-6xDqfTg/0/ad97ecc1/O/bikerack3sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-MJ4wVP9/0/O/bikerack4.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-c4rwrpK/0/00c12d51/O/bikerack4sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
linking to:<br />
<a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/" target="_blank">be different...act normal</a><br />
<a href="http://www.classyclutter.net/" target="_blank">classy clutter</a><br />
<a href="http://romantichome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my romantic home</a><br />
<a href="http://tidymom.net/" target="_blank">tidymom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">30 handmade days</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-71381452132111849912014-09-01T17:04:00.000-04:002019-04-06T14:13:07.386-04:00Plume Jelly Roll Quilt - a tutorial<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-jVztrr4/0/O/plumejrtutorial.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-FtnwxkB/0/64618ec8/O/plumejrtutorialsm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm pretty sure this has been done but anyway, here's my take on it. I used one Moda jelly roll. This one happens to be Plume, by Tula Pink. I needed extra fabric for the backing and binding but if you use cross-grain binding, you could easily use some of the extra strips for that. I like bias binding so I used some fabric from my stash. So anyway, here goes. All seams are a scant 1/4" and you should press seams as you go. When possible, nest seams at intersections. Oh, and please excuse the awful pictures. I took most of these in our old house which had horrible lighting and some were taken with my phone (what was I thinking?). <br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-GxRZ7sB/0/O/plumejrtutorial10.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-KZmmrps/0/675f0c4a/O/plumejrtutorial10sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
First separate your strips. I used the floral ones for the middles, but there weren't quite enough so I used some of my border strips for the missing middles. Make sure there are at least twenty-five border strips.<br />
<br />
The ones on the right are extras that I didn't use on the front. They can be used as part of the backing (more on that later) or for binding.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-KBLFCtg/0/O/plumejrtutorial1.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-fwrqDRZ/0/0db2d623/O/plumejrtutorial1sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Now take the strips for the borders. The first thing I always do is cut the selvages from the ends of the strips. Don't cut too much! Then, from each one, cut two 10.5" pieces and two 6.5" pieces. These will make up the border for one block. This will leave enough left for one "middle" for later. Repeat with twenty-four more border strips for a total of twenty-five sets. Set aside all of the extra pieces. In the picture below I already cut the extra piece. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-HJf7zMb/0/O/plumejrtutorial2.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-tfjJtCs/0/f3865e9a/O/plumejrtutorial2sm.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Next you need to cut seventy-five 6.5" strips for the middles. I was able to get six from each "middle" jelly roll strip. I had nine of those so I had to cut an additional twenty-one 6.5" strips. Use the extra pieces from the border strips for this. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-7dPqmF4/0/O/plumejrtutorial3.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-QzsRzFg/0/21a4fc11/O/plumejrtutorial3sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Separate the middles into sets of three. I put the darker/more solid strips in the center. You should have twenty-five sets. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-pVdr8cN/0/O/plumejrtutorial4.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-wPjjXmZ/0/deb4b3a5/O/plumejrtutorial4sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Sew each set of three middles together as shown and press the seams.<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-CFDsvp3/0/O/plumejrtutorial5.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-75hGCQL/0/cb1e2db9/O/plumejrtutorial5sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Take your shorter border strips and sew them to the ends of the middle units as shown.<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Vc8rgrn/0/O/plumejrtutorial6.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-H4gMqvR/0/d9dac1a7/O/plumejrtutorial6sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Then take the longer border strips and sew them to the sides as shown. One block done! Repeat until you have completed twenty-five blocks. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-2LW8GWd/0/O/plumejrtutorial7.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-hGSRSWQ/0/b5f9f4ab/O/plumejrtutorial7sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Next lay out your blocks. I turned every other block so that the middles go in alternating directions. See those two blocks on the left side of the bottom row? I turned those before I sewed the blocks together. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-9WVMmG8/0/O/plumejrtutorial8.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-VMmFJkH/0/1c7d230b/O/plumejrtutorial8sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Sew the blocks into rows, and then sew the rows together. Your quilt top is done! If you want to, you can add a border here with some matching or contrasting fabric. I didn't want a border.<br />
<br />
Press the quilt top well using lots of starch. I use Magic Sizing. Prepare your quilt back. I chose to make the extra pieces into a larger block by sewing them bricklayer style and then trimming. Then I sewed the backing fabric (which I got ultra-cheap at Connecting Threads in the clearance section) around the block. Scroll down for pics of the back. Press your quilt back with lots of starch too.<br />
<br />
Sandwich and baste your quilt. I used Elmer's School Glue to baste mine. I put the batting down and smoothed it out. Then laid the backing on top, folded back about 10" at a time, and drizzled the glue in a thin zig zag pattern. Smooth down the backing fabric and press to dry the glue quickly. Repeat all the way across the back. Then I flipped the whole works over and did the same for the quilt top. You want to use a very thin drizzle of glue and remember that it doesn't need to be a solid sheet of glue. My machine has never had a problem with sewing through glue basting but your mileage may vary.<br />
<br />
Quilt as desired, then bind your quilt. Don't forget to add a label! I chose to do this corner thing with the label but I don't like the "pocket" effect it gives so I'm going to hand sew the free edge down. I made the label on my embroidery machine. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Vj6qT33/0/O/plumejrtutorial12.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-zxKfCHH/0/c1f88d59/O/plumejrtutorial12sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
and here's the finished quilt. Pretty!<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-CspM5fD/0/O/plumejrtutorial9.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-DgW6gwd/0/c24d3b5d/O/plumejrtutorial9sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
and the back, including the block made from the scraps. Yes, it went on a little crooked. Oops.<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Tb6HJMf/0/O/plumejrtutorial11.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-k77jLKn/0/0fba12b7/O/plumejrtutorial11sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-GxRZ7sB/0/O/plumejrtutorial10.jpg"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-KZmmrps/0/675f0c4a/O/plumejrtutorial10sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
linking to:<br />
<a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/" target="_blank">skip to my lou</a><br />
<a href="http://madincrafts.com/" target="_blank">mad in crafts</a><br />
<a href="http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/" target="_blank">keeping it simple</a><br />
<a href="http://jembellish.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">creating my way to success</a><br />
<a href="http://ladybug-blessings.com/" target="_blank">ladybug blessings</a><br />
<a href="http://memoriesbythemile.com/" target="_blank">memories by the mile</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/" target="_blank">sugar bee crafts </a><br />
<a href="http://funkypolkadotgiraffe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">funky polka dot giraffe</a><br />
<a href="http://nap-timecreations.com/" target="_blank">nap time creations</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-37888769671466672722014-07-22T04:12:00.000-04:002014-07-23T23:09:35.840-04:00The Necessary Clutch Wallet<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-8tSfFbZ/0/O/necessaryclutch1a.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-FF4VGtr/0/O/necessaryclutch1asm.jpg" /></a><br />
A couple of years ago I hurt my back (doing nothing at all-how sad is that) and from that time I quit carrying my regular purse. At first it was because it was painful but then I got into the habit of just taking my wallet into stores with me. The problem is that it was small and my phone and keys wouldn't fit in it. So I decided to make a bigger one. I looked high and low for the perfect pattern that would work for me and this was as close as I could find. I altered it a little bit to fit my needs. The pattern is called The Necessary Clutch Wallet and I bought it from <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/sewing/accessory/iphone-wallet-epattern/50041" target="_blank">Emmaline Bags on Craftsy.</a> I also bought the hardware from her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmmalineBags?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> and it was well worth it-very good professional quality hardware. Here are a few inside views and the changes I made.<br />
<br />
View from the front. I added an inch to the height so my large-ish sized phone will fit inside. I made a wrist strap for it and also a long shoulder strap. I clipped both on the wallet and if I don't want to use the shoulder strap, all I need to do is remove it and leave the wrist strap attached. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Kq47q8G/0/O/necessaryclutch1.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-DqTQ5MP/0/O/necessaryclutch1sm.jpg" /></a> <br />
<br />
The inside-I added one more large zip pocket.<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-xtXDLHD/0/O/necessaryclutch2.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-ph5H8fH/0/O/necessaryclutch2sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I made a small detachable zip pocket that snaps in to hold my key chain sized store cards. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-4J9xNcJ/0/O/necessaryclutch3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-hvMdcgD/0/O/necessaryclutch3sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-QrTvvMr/0/O/necessaryclutch4.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-hQkz4Qx/0/O/necessaryclutch4sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I also added snaps in between the two zipper pockets so I could snap them together, keeping the wallet from opening as much, and keeping whatever I put in there from falling out. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-4wzHHMN/0/O/necessaryclutch5.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Fj49ZNd/0/O/necessaryclutch5sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-t5wVB32/0/O/necessaryclutch6.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-TtTmx9d/0/O/necessaryclutch6sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I changed the position of the inside D rings, which are meant to hold the straps. The original position made the flap scrunch up when using the long strap and that bugged me. I left the original D rings in for now but may remove them sometime. I put the new D rings in the side seam. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-DDznNnX/0/O/necessaryclutch7.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-DMtB3xS/0/O/necessaryclutch7sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I also added a small outer zip pocket to hold my most-used credit card and two most-used grocery store cards. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-d6QzNc2/0/O/necessaryclutch8.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-DfKZmjz/0/O/necessaryclutch8sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Plus I added cute zipper pulls. These are made by a company called Inazuma and I've seen them on Etsy as well as a few other sewing websites. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-cXTFTpr/0/O/necessaryclutch9.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-GtdN3Jn/0/O/necessaryclutch9sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I've been using the wallet for a week or so, including an afternoon shopping trip, and so far it is working out fabulously! I'm very happy with it and with the changes I made. <br />
The fabric for the outside is Sophie by Moda and the inside fabric is Lovely, also by Moda. The fabric for the small zipper pocket is some Japanese Hello Kitty fabric I bought on Etsy a few years ago.<br />
<br />
linking to:<br />
<a href="http://beyondthepicketfence.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">beyond the picket fence </a><br />
<a href="http://somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">someday crafts</a><br />
<a href="http://www.creationsbykara.com/" target="_blank">creations by kara </a><br />
<a href="http://733blog.com/" target="_blank">seven thirty three</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ducksnarow.com/" target="_blank">ducks in a row</a><br />
<a href="http://thenymelrosefamily.com/" target="_blank">the ny melrose family</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-10928149014446084182014-05-06T03:49:00.000-04:002014-05-06T03:49:41.752-04:00Wedding card<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-tHzkFhC/0/O/troywedding.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-zvLGpg2/0/O/troyweddingsm.jpg" /></a>
<br />
I made this wedding card for my nephew and his new wife. The design is loosely based on the one shown in <a href="http://sizzixukblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/wedding-belles.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>. <br />
<br />
The dress shape was cut from a Silhouette store file and then put through an embossing folder (I think it's called Plum Blossom). The pink background was embossed with an embossing plate.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
Black and Blushing Bride card stock from Stampin' Up<br />
Curious Metallic Cryogen White card stock from cutcardstock.com<br />
Pearls (unknown)<br />
Punches and ribbon from Stampin' Upgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-29866870121999712622014-04-25T01:55:00.000-04:002014-05-06T03:11:25.769-04:00storage-drawer transformation<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-JN3QnxZ/0/O/hldrawers1.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-PNWRVSK/0/O/hldrawers1sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
This is a little wooden chest of drawers I bought from hobby lobby. I took the "before" picture after I removed the hardware, but you can see it sitting in the background-it was a dark bronze kind of color. I sanded it, primed it with kilz latex primer, and then painted the outside part with white (actually parchment which I guess is slightly off white) and then the pairs of drawers with pink, orange and green paint. All of my colors are the little samples you can get mixed at Home Depot. I added one coat of polycrylic since the paints are all a bit flat. Then I spray painted the hardware with white. Much more cheerful! Now to decide what to store in it...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-XrN295T/0/O/hldrawers2.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-nrrLXnJ/0/O/hldrawers2sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-TxDbC33/0/O/hldrawers3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-392NWvv/0/O/hldrawers3sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-HqwJ5KD/0/O/hldrawers4.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-G6wPfr5/0/O/hldrawers4sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
linking to:<br />
<a href="http://bec4-beyondthepicketfence.blogspot.com/2014/04/under-100-link-party_30.html" target="_blank">beyond the picket fence</a><br />
<a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/2014/05/nifty-thrifty-tuesday-no211.html" target="_blank">coastal charm</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/2014/05/take-look-tuesday.html" target="_blank">sugar bee crafts</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-65750606971324341952014-03-17T02:30:00.000-04:002019-04-06T14:16:36.112-04:00storage - 6 x 6 pads, ribbon, buttons, and moreToday I'm sharing a couple of storage ideas. First is my 6 x 6 patterned paper storage. When Stampin' Up started selling these, I thought I had to have every one, and multiple pads of each. I haven't even used much of it but now I will (hopefully) since it's nicely organized. The first thing I did was make some mini file folders using some regular folders cut down and my envelope punch. Then I took my paper pads apart and filed each color in a separate folder. I had some spare file folder labels that I had for my cardstock so I used them for these. I only did this with my SU paper packs because the others ones I have don't really have any dominant colors. I kept those in their pads and turned them upside down for now so the scraps can stay in the pad. The whole thing is stored in a cd case from Walmart.<br />
<br />
I love how this turned out. You can see all of my unopened pads in the back. With any luck these will get used now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-9dkMrSb/0/O/6x6paperpadstorage.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-28tGVKn/0/O/6x6paperpadstoragesm.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Here's some of my other storage. This is a Making Memories shelf where I keep my ribbon, buttons, paint and some other stuff. On the bottom shelf the ribbon spools were too big to use with the dowel in the middle, so I tied it (with some ribbon) to the front to create a little stopper thing. Then I just set my larger ribbon spools behind the stopper thing. The rest of my ribbon spools are on the next shelf up. The jars and tins hold my buttons and the jars near the top on the left have some paper flowers in them. The clear paint can looking containers on top hold small pieces of ribbon. The long tin holds my Stampin' Up markers (I don't have many) and the little pouch on the bottom holds my rubber cutting scissors. Also on the bottom-some of my McDonald's and Lego Hello Kitty collection.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-9NdLQg7/0/O/mmshelf.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-njT7RGS/0/O/mmshelfsm.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.stamps-and-stitches.com/2007/06/ribbon-storage.html">Click here</a> for a link to my other ribbon storage. I keep my non-spooled ribbon on foamcore boards and almost 7 yrs later, it's still working out great for me! galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-22450449690260520692014-03-03T22:25:00.003-05:002014-03-04T01:12:23.680-05:00Fabric covered photo boxes - a tutorial<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-b5xWkr9/0/O/photoboxtitle.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-MZRsDCr/0/O/photoboxtitlesm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Here's a quick and easy tutorial to cover standard sized photo boxes with fabric. I used fat quarters from Stampin' Up for these, which are very generously sized fat quarters. I don't even think they can legally be called a fat quarter. With regular ones be sure they will fit over the photo box. You should be able to cover one box bottom with a single standard sized unwashed fat quarter. If it's been washed, it may have shrunk so be sure to check the fit. You'll also need a fat quarter for the top. I was able to do two tops per fat quarter but again, these Stampin' Up ones are much bigger than normal.<br />
<br />
Mod Podge is also necessary for gluing on the fabric, along with an applicator (I used a foam brush).<br />
<br />
Before you start, remove any hardware from the box. Mine had label holders that I had to pry off.<br />
<br />
Step 1: measure your fabric if necessary. Make sure it will go around the box and overlap by about an inch on all 4 sides. Same with the top. Cut off any excess. In this picture I'm measuring only the length of the fabric. Then I checked the width. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-qvbvSDv/0/O/photobox1.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-P8m9Gqt/0/O/photobox1sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 2: brush glue onto the bottom of the photo box and place it on the center of the fabric.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-nPRXPmt/0/O/photobox2.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-hMXM7jJ/0/O/photobox2sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 3: use a ruler as shown to make a mark about 3/4" outside the edges of the box. Mark it at the edge of the fabric. Repeat for all 4 corners. (for the lid, make the mark at about 1/2")
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-vXn2kC8/0/O/photobox3a.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-G5x4WTx/0/O/photobox3asm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 4: draw a line from the corner of the box to the mark.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-hCvpX37/0/O/photobox4.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-MKM2sxg/0/O/photobox4sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 5: cut on the drawn line, and then cut across, leaving a flap that is about 1" (see the dark lines shown on the picture below)
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-BL2sMPt/0/O/photobox5.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-q4TDMCF/0/O/photobox5sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
after the cuts (this photo is flipped):
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-wRBsHZz/0/O/photobox6.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-xb9bKDb/0/O/photobox6sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 6: Brush glue onto the long sides of the box (one at a time) and fold up the sides. Be sure to apply glue wherever the fabric will lay, including inside the box. Fold the fabric to the inside of the box and glue it down, keeping the corners as smooth as possible.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Fc7fgtz/0/O/photobox7.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-MjsFsVf/0/O/photobox7sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 7: On the end flaps, apply a little bit of glue to the sides and fold them like this:
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-GbGwTw5/0/O/photobox8.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-nN6QpfF/0/O/photobox8sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Step 8: apply glue to the box ends and fold up the fabric ends. Be sure to glue inside the box and fold over the excess fabric.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-GhRLwH3/0/O/photobox9.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-sc93j94/0/O/photobox9sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Here is the finished box:
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-cmrHdv3/0/O/photobox10.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-fRR5Tr2/0/O/photobox10sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Make the lid the same way but be sure to measure 1/2" in step 3 instead of 3/4". Also, be sure the corners are as smooth as possible on the inside so the lid will fit on the box.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-6vq5GKK/0/O/photobox11.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-7M49TCX/0/O/photobox11sm.jpg" /></a> <br />
<br />
finished lid:
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-5kDXsq3/0/O/photobox12.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-Zz7CGJK/0/O/photobox12sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
And here is the finished box, complete with tight-fitting lid. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-g46cMNJ/0/O/photobox13.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-tzW6s63/0/O/photobox13sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-H3Hqv4T/0/O/photobox14.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/Blog-projects-2014a/i-trZkvMj/0/O/photobox14sm.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
hint: I hate washing dried mod podge off my hands, so I wear disposable rubber gloves when doing the gluing part. Also, be sure to let the glue dry thoroughly before putting the lid on the box. Otherwise you may never get it back off.<br />
<br />
linking to:<br />
<a href="http://www.craft-o-maniac.com/" target="_blank">craft-o-maniac</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/" target="_blank">the girl creative </a><br />
<a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/" target="_blank">skip to my lou</a><br />
galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-42618384879520546122013-12-24T02:18:00.000-05:002013-12-24T02:18:13.649-05:00Merry Christmas!!I know I haven't blogged in forever. The truth is, I haven't finished moving all of my craft stuff to our new house yet so I haven't made anything at all. Kinda depressing. But I wanted to wish all of my friends and blog readers a Merry Christmas.<br />
<img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-RRKzxTx/0/O/daisychristmas.jpg" width="450" />
<br />
supplies:
graphics from Crystal Wilkerson (letters and star on the tree)<br />
"Christmas" font: Hipster Script<br />
tree and lights<br />
pup: Daisy + Target reindeer antlers + Build a Bear scarf + treat (as a bribe)galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-23019611417195765282013-10-27T22:56:00.000-04:002013-11-02T02:39:01.619-04:00Vintage pyrexI still can't make anything. I have no usable craft room right now, and everything is a mess. But I'm working on other non-crafty things. This week I used contact paper on the inside of this shelf unit, which my husband and I varnished a few weeks ago. I originally wanted to paint it but that's a big commitment on a solid oak cabinet, and I could tell hubby did not like the idea. So I covered the entire inside of it, including the shelves, with white contact paper. Not bad, eh?
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-GtsNk39/0/X3/pyrex1-X3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I love vintage pyrex and jadeite. I can't afford a lot of jadeite-it's pretty expensive-so I have mostly pyrex and a little bit of other vintage stuff in here. I love the way the white sets off the colors of the dishes.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-LbS4KmR/0/X3/pyrex5-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-HrR3cjv/0/X3/pyrex5sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-FNZH4Zh/0/X3/pyrex4-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-T6bSQ6Z/0/X3/pyrex4sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
My mom gave me the egg cups on the top shelf. They were packed away for years before I found them and discovered how cute they are and how perfect they go with the rest of the dishes. I don't know how old they are, but I think they're pretty old. We had them when we were kids and I'm pretty old. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-sHKmSjz/0/X3/pyrex3-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-8MxPBJk/0/X3/pyrex3sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
On the bottom shelf are some glasbake promo mugs I found at a shop. I think they were a pretty good find-I paid $6 for the three mugs and I've seen single ones go for over $10 on ebay and etsy. When I bought them I only knew that I liked them. I didn't have any idea what they were so I looked them up when I got home. I'd love to have the complete collection but I'm not paying ten bucks a mug. <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-GHJD9ck/0/X3/pyrex2-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-5gk96zQ/0/X3/pyrex2sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Now I need to find room for all of my blue ball jars.<br />
<br />
If you have or know about any blogs or blog posts that feature vintage glass, please share them in the comments. I'd love to take a look. <br />
<br />
***linking to: <a href="http://lilluna.com/" target="_blank" title="Lil\'Luna"><img alt="Lil\'Luna" src="http://lilluna.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/link-party-palooza-button.jpg" style="border: none;" title="Lil\'Luna" /></a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-64321495422458953012013-10-08T23:42:00.000-04:002013-11-02T02:42:44.754-04:00retro kitchen stool makeover<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-wnjFgM2/0/X3/stoolbeforeafter-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-62f5PqF/0/X3/stoolbeforeaftersm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I bought this old stool at an antique shop and my husband and I fixed it up. This model was not originally made with padding on the seat or seat back. The last owners apparently decided to put some on it, so they made wooden forms to staple the fabric to. When we took the fabric and padding off, it wasn't in terrible shape but since the wood was firmly attached I decided to recover it rather than trying to take all of the wood off. I sanded it down (when I bought it, it was painted with brush-on paint of some kind and it was very drippy) and then my husband spray painted it. Then I used some vinyl covered fabric to recover it. I'm really happy with how it turned out and it's the perfect height for our new kitchen island.<br />
<br />
before:<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-h74gRRq/0/X3/stoolbefore1-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-4Kjsnrv/0/X3/stoolbefore1sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-Gx3smFb/0/X3/stoolbefore2-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-KjgcTSj/0/X3/stoolbefore2sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-zkJX657/0/X3/stoolbefore3-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-mdRnzD8/0/X3/stoolbefore3sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-xMDKpFh/0/X3/stoolbefore4-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-PLpXXGJ/0/X3/stoolbefore4sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
and after:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-TrfJP97/0/X3/stoolafter1-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-d4pB365/0/X3/stoolafter1sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-XzTX77r/0/X3/stoolafter2-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-zVbkFGd/0/X3/stoolafter2sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-ZmcpfdB/0/X3/stoolafter3-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-MKhJzwQ/0/X3/stoolafter3sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-Bs8NQDr/0/X3/stoolafter4-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-S9DqnR4/0/X3/stoolafter4sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-sRwNPQS/0/X3/stoolafter5-X3.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-Sx8xBsW/0/X3/stoolafter5sm-X3.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
****linking to:
<a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue</a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-92053158286868222992013-09-12T02:28:00.001-04:002013-09-12T02:30:36.714-04:00My blog may go missing for a bitI've had it with google hosting my domain name (variety of reasons) and have transferred it to another registrar. This means a lot of redirecting and repointing of addresses and general chaos. My blog may or may not still be available at http://stampsandstitches.blogspot.com during this time but my regular domains (www.stampsandstitches.com and www.stamps-and-stitches.com) will definitely not work for a few days. I've only done one so far (I think the one with the hyphens) but the other will be done soon as well.<br />
<br />
In the meantime I am packing up my crafty stuff to move into a new room so for now, I can't even make anything. The whole room is a mess. galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-40285159591274792752013-08-01T14:11:00.001-04:002013-08-01T14:11:50.264-04:00DIY wooden planterMy first 'real' wood project! I found <a href="http://ana-white.com/2012/04/plans/square-planters-finials" target="_blank">plans on ana-white.com</a> for this planter and thought it would look nice on our new front porch. Mine is a little different, because when I printed out the materials list I didn't have the part that said to cut the legs longer if you use 1 x 6 wood. I used 1 x 6 wood so my legs were a bit short. I still like it though. I used my Silhouette SD to cut out the W from some vinyl. After I finished building the planter, I stuck the vinyl letter on and painted the blue over it. After I finished the last coat of blue, I removed the letter. I let it dry and then stained over the whole thing. I'm not 100% happy with how the stain looks over the paint, so if I do a project like this again, I will stain first, then put on the stencil, then paint over it. That way there's no staining on the painted surface. Even so, I think it turned out nice and am hoping to fill it with some kind of plants soon. It's not on the porch here because our new porch hasn't been built yet. That will be next month (if you want to check out our modular house journey <a href="http://canwebuildthis.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">click here</a>). Daisy was kind of enough to pretty up this picture for me since I had no plants or flowers in the planter. She had trouble sitting still long enough for me to take the picture though! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-MnCh37S/0/L/planter-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-bQsF9Mc/0/M/plantersm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
ingredients:<br />
pine wood<br />
finials from Lowe's <br />
paint: glidden<br />
stain: minwax<br />
clear finish: rustoleum water based spar varnish in satin <br />
font: Samantha upright<br />
vinyl: oracal 631<br />
dog: Daisy <br />
<br />
<br />galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-27764496948304817862013-07-02T14:23:00.000-04:002013-07-02T14:24:07.927-04:00Manatee LoveI made this card for a friend that likes fish and manatees. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-GXzQjtq/0/L/mermaidmanatee-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-FHz6XgR/0/M/mermaidmanateesm-M.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
ingredients<br />
digital stamp: mermaid with manatee by Paper Nest<br />
white card stock: Paper Trey Ink<br />
blue card stock: Stampin' Up <br />
patterned paper: Stampin' Up<br />
pearls: recollections (??) from Michaels<br />
copic markers: E00, E11, E13, E21, E25, E27, E29, G14, Y26, Y08, YG01, R30, BG45, BG49, BG45, BG000, V000, V15, V17, W000, W1, W3, W5, W7<br />
punch: ek success<br />
nestabilitiesgalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-180064525954127802013-06-10T14:03:00.001-04:002019-04-06T14:21:43.128-04:00This is PeteI know this isn't a crafty post but I wanted to share our story about Pete. Pete's mom is a Hereford cow that belongs to my father-in-law. A couple of months ago she had twins and decided that was just way too much work. She took care of the little heifer (girl) calf but pushed the little bull (boy) calf away. Poor thing. :( So since my husband also raises cattle, he brought him home so we could feed him with a bottle, and then a bucket. Hence the term "bucket calf". Pete took to the bottle well, despite some mess:<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-nFnQmjz/0/3bbad61a/O/bucketcalf.jpg" width="450/" />
<br />
<br />
The bucket, not so much. At any rate we did manage to get some food into him and he grew. Now he is an old pro and even eats a little grain and grass. He's about 2.5 months old now. Here is a picture of him with my daughter, who is in charge of afternoon watering:
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-WwZMCvF/0/e04c2c5d/O/pete613b.jpg" width="450/"/>
<br />
<br />
In the pasture, looking cute (this is his one and only talent):
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-TMmXLtK/0/bd2a06ae/O/pete613a.jpg" width="450/"/>
<br />
<br />
And being a typical cow-nosy!
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/2017-blog/i-SSnBdGJ/0/e991c0e7/O/pete613.jpg" width="450/"/>
<br />
<br />galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-84996611905579413652013-05-19T03:53:00.003-04:002013-05-19T03:53:53.656-04:00Baby Gear - Animal StyleA family member told us last year that she was expecting, so of course, a baby quilt and some baby gear were put on my project list. I found out through her pinterest page that she liked zebra stripes and black and pink, and eventually, it was revealed that they were expecting a little girl. So I made her a few zebra themed things. A quilt, a bib, some burp cloths, some tiny shoes, and of course, a card (not zebra themed). I've had these things done for a couple of weeks now but was waiting for the baby to arrive to post them. She had her Friday night! A perfect and beautiful little girl.<br />
<br />
the quilt:<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-rh4bkXc/0/L/zebrababy-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-sWrm24j/0/M/zebrababysm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
the back-very wild!
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-3QMM3RV/0/L/zebrababyback-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-FFtFFNh/0/M/zebrababybacksm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
My usual curved corners-here's a close-up. I did my binding a little differently this time. Normally I sew it to the back, fold it to the front, and zig zag the edge-not really caring how it looks on the back. This time I accepted a challenge from my sister and sewed it to the front, folded it to the back, and sewed in the ditch on the front, catching the back. It was a little slower but I like how it turned out! <br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-TnrCNPr/0/L/zebrababycorner-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-8XM3pM3/0/M/zebrababycornersm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
a close-up of the label, which I made on my new embroidery machine using EQ Stitch to trace my signature. You can also see the serpentine stitch I used for the quilting. I love this stitch and learned how to program it into my Janome 6600 on the <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Janome6500/" target="_blank">Janome 6500/6600 yahoo group</a>.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-457zsWF/0/L/zebrababylabel-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-wrk4mqx/0/M/zebrababylabelsm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
The shoes, made from a pattern by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LenasShoePatterns?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Lena's Patterns on Etsy</a>
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-TMR8NLL/0/L/zebrababyshoes-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-LwF6Kmm/0/M/zebrababyshoessm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
The bib, made from <a href="http://mareri.blogspot.com/2011/07/how-to-diaper-and-wipes-clutch.html" target="_blank">this tutorial</a>
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-PSdMgJW/0/L/bibfront-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-xkVdSXS/0/M/bibfrontsm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
from the back-it has little armholes and gives pretty good coverage
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-pCSSQhb/0/L/bibback-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-MZmqLHj/0/M/bibbacksm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Half a dozen burp cloths made from cloth diapers-using <a href="http://www.petitelemon.com/blog/2011/03/28/how-to-make-a-burp-cloth/" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> (with a few changes):
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-949zv8J/0/L/burpcloths-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-kVV62V7/0/M/burpclothssm-M.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
And the card-another clothespin card.
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-XmZPP4J/0/L/babycard513-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-qsc8N26/0/M/babycard513sm-M.jpg" /></a>
<br />
ingredients:<br />
kraft and pink card stock, patterned paper, clothespins, and cloud embossing folder: Stampin' Up<br />
white card stock: Georgia Pacific<br />
dies: nestabilities<br />
twine: Divine twine<br />
onesie shape: Lettering Delights <a href="http://interneka.com/affiliate/AIDLink.php?link=http://www.letteringdelights.com/clipart:baby-10331.html&AID=41592" target="_blank">Baby Simple Shapes set</a><br />
font: Hipster Script galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-49843015402439990702013-05-12T01:40:00.001-04:002013-05-12T01:42:39.445-04:00Sponsored Post - Craftsy Classes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=283755151632939506" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<img height="226" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v88/gale2/CraftsyLogo.jpg" width="400" /><br />
I've been a Craftsy member and class-taker for a while now, so when the people at Craftsy asked me if I wanted to review a <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/classes/quilting" target="_blank">quilting class</a>, I jumped on the opportunity! What's more, the class is one I probably would not have automatically picked so it was nice to be able to take it. The class they provided is called Precision Piecing. Since I generally go for quick and easy, I avoid anything requiring precision. The main reason is that the precision never happens. Well it turns out I wasn't doing all I could to get precise piecing. The class, which is led by Norah McMeeking, was pretty great. I learned several methods to get more precise in my piecing, some of which I never would have even thought about. Yes, some take a little more work but the end result is worth it.
<br />
There are three amazing quilts that are taught in this class. Two are, admittedly, way beyond my comfort level right now. But there is a beautiful paper pieced stained glass quilt that I am going to try. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=283755151632939506" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
One thing I love about the <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/classes/quilting" target="_blank">classes at Craftsy</a> is that you can take notes during the class. This way if there's something you want to be sure to remember, you don't have to go through the video and try to find it again. There is a section in each class to find class notes you've taken. Another great thing is that they have a chat type feature where you can ask questions right during the video lesson, and usually, the class instructor will answer. Sometimes other people will also answer, which is helpful if the instructor is busy, or if there are different ways of solving a problem or answering a question. When you click on a question or the replies, the video will pause and then restart when you click back to the list of questions. <br />
<br />
Other handy features are a small message board for each class, a section for finished project photos, user reviews, and a list of materials. Often, there are templates or other printables you can download. And the best part-Craftsy classes you've bought are available forever. If you take a year to get one watched (guilty as charged!) or need to refer back in the future, your materials are still there. <br />
<br />
So that's the good. Now the bad. I've noticed this about a lot of their classes. Sometimes they could take a lot less time to show something. They might do the same block or seam several times and I feel like they could speed that up or even cut to the next step. I get distracted easily and this is usually when it happens with these classes. Luckily I can rewatch any time in case I miss something important.<br />
<br />
Also, while they have an iPhone and iPad app, I have an Android phone and Android tablet with no plans to ever switch, so I wish they would release an Android version. <br />
<br />
And now, something for you! Craftsy has provided me with a special link for 50% off the Precision Piecing class. If you'd like to try this class, just <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/ext/StampsandStitchesBlog_PrecisionPiecing50" target="_blank">click here</a> to get it at a great discount! Also, be sure to sign up for their newsletter-they have sales often and you can be notified of new classes. And it's not just for quilters. Craftsy has lots of non-sewing classes too. Cooking and cake decorating, home and garden, paper crafts, knitting, crocheting and more. I've only taken quilting classes but I'd like to try some of the others someday.<br />
<br />
So here's that link again: <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/ext/StampsandStitchesBlog_PrecisionPiecing50" target="_blank">click here to get the Precision Piecing class 50% off!! </a>galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283755151632939506.post-1616192997322593422013-05-03T19:16:00.000-04:002013-05-03T19:17:23.823-04:00Thanks, Girlfriend!A few weeks ago my friend <a href="http://underacherrytree.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jin</a> sent me the most amazing Hello Kitty care package. If you didn't know this, I do love me some Hello Kitty. I asked her to pick up the Hello Kitty date stamp at Michaels for me, since I have no Michaels nearby, and she picked up a bunch more! Journals, tapes, embellishments, bookmarks and MORE. I'm a grown-up for the most part, but it's still fun to get a surprise in the mail! So I wanted to make her something special to show my appreciation. Since Jin isn't a quilter, I felt somewhat confident making her a quilted pillow. I had my doubts through the whole thing, like I do with pretty much every project, but I sent it anyway and she loves it! Here's the pillow I made using simple 4-patches and a heart patch from EQ, plus some white sashing. Fabrics are all from my stash and some were leftovers from other quilts.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-kTRRcXp/0/L/jinpillow-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-GJRmjmB/0/M/jinpillowsm-M.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
and I made this super simple card for her too. I always want to use these cute mini clothespins from SU but they don't fit well in an envelope so this was the perfect opportunity.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-kMbCfS2/0/L/heartcard413-L.jpg"><img src="http://stevengale.smugmug.com/Other/blog-projects/i-G8JF674/0/M/heartcard413sm-M.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
ingredients:<br />
white card stock: neenah<br />
blue card stock: stampin' up<br />
baker's twine: martha stewart<br />
clothespins: stampin' up<br />
stamp and ink: stampin' up <br />
cloud embossing folder: stampin' up<br />
<br />galehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13768549263229767417noreply@blogger.com19