Inspired Ideas: The Birthday Issue

amy powers’

inspired ideas the happy birthday issue

volume 2, no. 4

Forty years ago, I was born on my grandmothe r’s birthday. My mother le ft for the hospital the da y before with the birthday cake she’d baked for he r mother unfrosted. On the way, she said to my father, “I hope this baby waits to be born on my mother’s birthday!” To which my father replie d as he sped along the high way, “I hope this baby waits to be born at the hospita l!”

Perhaps it was this ausp icious beginning and perhaps it has to do w ith being born on the fi rst day of Spring, but I ha ve always, always held my birthday as an extra sp ecial, personal holiday.

To me, celebrating my birt hday is celebrating my life.

An extra piece of cake . (With a huge sugary fr osting flower on top, please!)

An extra spring in my step.

“Happy Birthday to me! ” playing in my head. A nd a huge smile on my face . “It’s my birthday!” I te ll absolutely everyone, fo llowed by my age.

This issue is dedicated to celebrating birthday s, from decking your hom e to adorning yourself.

Celebrate your birthday and celebrate yourself!

Love, Amy

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Mini Projects Jar It ..............................49 Thank You ................... 63 Primer Tags .................... 73 Birthday Candles ............ 73 Gift Packaging............... 173 Vintage Birthday .......... 185 Embroidered Shoes ......213

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Let’s Have Some Fun! Koralee Teichroeb A Proper Topper ............8

Lesa Dailey A Cherry On Top ...............122

Amy Powers Birthday Treasury ................14

Melissa Phillips You’re Invited ............132

Molly Knox Fringe Benefits ..................... 20

Danielle Muller Places, Everyone ........ 140

Karla Steele Pixie Sticks .........................24

Amy Hanna For Mother .........................146

Denise Sharp Butterfly Wishes .............. 30

Julie Collings A Tiny Birthday Book......154

Jenny Doh Wrappings ............................. 40

Jone Hallmark Birthday Butterflies ...... 162

Ingrid Lavoie Snip Snip ........................... 50

Megan Andersen Hip Hip Hooray ......... 168

Kerry Lynn Yeary Birthday Bouquet .......54

Heidi Woodruff A Paper Crown ............. 174

Timothy Haugen Sugar Sweet ...................64

Molly Knox A Pocketfull of Wishes ...... 180

Heather Buhaj Dollhouse-to-go ............. 70

Eileen Hull That Takes the Cake .......... 186

Sharon Giordano Silk Rose....................... 74

Lorraine Rose The Icing on the Cake .......192

Pam Garrison Favorable ...........................84

Aileen Roberts Chubby Cakes .............. 200

Tracey Fisher First Place ..........................94

Marlene Haveron Party Marker.............208

Pat Wehmeier Wee Birthday ................... 104

Lynn Lebsack Queen for a Day ................ 214

Sandy Camarda Little Red Dress ........108

Sue Griffiths Party Dress ......................220

Ellen Wigginton Fancy Sit-Upons ............116

Amy Powers Birthday Tower ................. 228

the happy birthday issue

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pam garrison

Lesa Dailey lynn Lebsack

amy Powers denise sharp danieLle Muller

pam keravuori

Ingrid Lavoie karla steele

julie collings jenny doh

sue griffiths Sharon Giordano

jone hallmark heidi woodruff

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amy Hanna

lorraine rose & Kassie schwan

melissa phillips sandy camarda

heather buhaj

pat wehmeier

eileen hull timothy haugen tracey fisher

ellen wigginton aileen Roberts

kerry lynn Yeary

megan andersen koralee teichroeb

marlene Haveron molly knox

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amy powers’

inspired ideas the happy birthday issue

volume 2, no. 4

AMY POWERS . . . . . . . CREATOR PAM KERAVUORI . . . . . ASSISTANT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & SUBMISSIONS: Email amy@inspireco.com or send correspondence to Amy Powers, Inspired Ideas, 5213 Tulip Leaf Court, Centreville VA 20120

Š Copyright 2011 by Inspire Co. LLC

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission of copyright owner. All images contained within have been reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the artists concerned and no responsibility is accepted by the publisher, Inspire Co., for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising from the contents of this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that the projects within this magazine are original.

Please respect the generosity of the artists contributing to this magazine.

Do not reproduce projects featured here for resale.

They are for personal use only.

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Photograph by Amy Powers

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b a proper topper Birthday celebrations are a “BIG thing” in our home. Huge birthday parties have always been a tradition ... ”the more the merrier” is always our motto. The first job is for the birthday girl to pick out the cake she wants me to make. Then the decorations and goodie bags follow. Party hats are always a must!

So when I was asked to contribute something special for this Birthday Issue, it didn’t take me long to decide what I wanted to share ... a SPARKLY Rosie Birthday Hat! Lately I have been hooked on these sweet newspaper roses, so I wanted to incorporate them into my hat. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I have.

Watch out ... they are addictive! Lately everything has been “coming up roses” in our home.

by Koralee Teichroeb the happy birthday issue

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Gather: • • • • • • • •

Large piece of cardstock Newspaper Adhesive, glue or spray Crepe paper roll Hot glue gun Coarse glitter {crystal} Glitter glue Elastic string

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1 Trace template for hat (link found in index) onto both cardstock and newspaper. Using adhesive, glue together. Let dry completely. Glue the straight sides together with hot glue to make the cone-shaped hat.

2 Using a sewing machine, center a running stitch through your crepe paper strip. The crepe paper should gather nicely as you sew. Make sure you have enough for the ruffle around the bottom of the hat. Glue onto hat.

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3 Paper roses {various sizes}: Start with 10" strips of newspaper, 3" wide. Fold the strips 3x, resulting in one 1/2"-wide long strip {approximate measurements}.

Start at one end of the strip and, leaving a small tail, start wrapping the paper around the center, twisting as you go to make a tight little rose. See images. It took me a while to get the hang of it, but with practice it becomes very easy. You can stop whenever you feel your rose is big enough. I hot-glued the end of each rose so it would stay wrapped.

Remember that you want various sizes of roses, so once you have the hang of doing the first one, make the rest whatever size you want. My hat has 8 roses.

Glue roses onto hat however you wish.

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4. Add coarse glitter onto the roses. You can do this before you glue the roses on, if you wish. I found it was easier to do it after.

5. You can add extra embellishments if you want {sparkling gems, paper butterflies, etc.}.

I found a simple crepe paper flower with some glitter in the center was all mine needed.

6. Add a ribbon or some elastic string to tie the birthday hat on.

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fe. a part of my li n e e b s y a lw a Creating has y ours around m h t n e sp I l, ir As a young g n with her butto le b ta n e h c it grandma's k of glue. jar and a pot d with everye st u d is d rl o Today my w ou ke sprinkles. Y a c to r e tt li g thing from e kitchen with th in e m d n fi can usually ow tive side has n a re c y m s a , my camera avid blogn a s A . g in k a of b found the JOY for creating n io ss a p y m are ger, I love to sh am hy. Whether I p ra g to o h p y through m oxes eat or pretty b to s e k a c y ir creating fa e bout sharing th a ll a is it , in to put them . se around me o th h it w Y JO

Koralee Teichroeb

Birthday rules : Stay Cute.

Wish Big. Never let anybody count your candles.

bluebirdnotes.blogspot.com the happy birthday issue

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create

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B ir y Treasury If you love birthdays as much as I do, you’ll love this treasury shadowbox celebrating birthdays! It all starts with a fabulous product by Tim Holtz called “Configurations Shadow Boxes.” I’ve used the 6.75” x 8.75” size, but you can adapt this project to any size. Use these ideas to inspire your own shadowbox creation.

Be sure to watch my blog (inspireco.blogspot.com) for an announcement about a special birthday treasury swap!

by Amy Powers

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1 Paint all of the components of the “Configurations by Tim Holtz� boxes with a couple coats of gesso. Allow to dry completely. Paint the frame with a wash of paint in a pretty color and set aside. The shadowbox set comes with a clear plastic cover. If you wish to use it, remember to keep all the components and embellishments within the box spaces.

2 Gather an assortment of special papers for lining the the inside backs of the boxes, and cut to fit.

3 To make mini-gifts, wrap small blocks of wood with paper just as you would a regular gift. For a neat wrapping job, it is very important to cut the paper to exactly the size necessary to wrap the gift. Use a glue stick to secure the ends, and tie with narrow ribbon.

4 My friend Tracey Fisher (First Place, page 94) gave me the idea to use Happy Tape, or Japanese rice paper tape, to make a fun mini-pennant banner. Simply fold each tape over a length of twine and then snip into a triangle shape.

5 I decorated a photograph of myself as a little girl by topping it with a mini-party hat. Just cut a small triangle out of paper (I used glitter paper). Run the bottom of the triangle through a puddle of glue and then tap it into a puddle of glitter. Dip the tip of the triangle into the glue,then the glitter, and repeat a few times to make a little ball on the top of the hat.

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6 The balloons were made from felt balls (available for purchase at Ornamentea.com) that I squeezed between my fingers to make more oblong than round. I glued wrapped wire from the floral section of the craft store for the balloons’ strings.

7 I glued a mini-wooden spool behind the photo to give it a bit of dimension.

8 Look around to see what happy little things you can find to put in your shadowbox, like this little pink plastic bird cake decoration, the little bisque penny doll, the paper bird cupcake topper, and a cupcake button.

9 I added a tiny birthday hat to the little plastic bird, made using a 1� circle punch. Cut a slit to the center of the circle and then roll into a cone. I used the same method outlined above to add glitter to the rim and top.

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10 I used the method Stacey Bear shared in the Spring 2011 issue of Inspired Ideas (Piece of Cake) to make a tiny cake. Cut a strip of pink felt .5” wide x 15” long, and wind to create the cake. Wrap the outside with layers of lace and rick-rack to resemble frosting. The candles are made from straight pins dipped in paint a few times! Dip the pin about .25” deep into paint, wating just a bit between dips for the paint to set. Then dip just the head of the pin into yellow paint to make the flame.I added a bit of gold glitter, too. Then just poke the pins into the cake. A button forms the cake plate.

11 Add embellishments including flowers, sequins, and buttons along the box edges. I had a bit of “Happy Birthday” ribbon which made a sweet little banner.

12 Secure the frame in place using linen bookbinding tape on the back. Add painted wooden feet to the bottom of the piece.

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embellish

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Fri e BeneďŹ ts This fluffy, festive fringe can be used in so many ways! Not only can it embellish your paper projects, but it can also dress up your birthday party. Use it to adorn your party platters and cake stands by temporarily attaching it to the plates and platters with double-sided tape. Hang it from a chandelier to add color and interest over the table. Add it to store-bought party hats for a customized look! Just sew, cut, fluff and party!

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1 Cut 3 pieces of crepe paper streamers. They should all be the same length (measure your project first to determine the length of fringe you will need).

2 Layer the streamers directly on top of each other.

3 Sew all of the layers together.

Sew right down the center of the streamers lengthwise.

4 Fold the strip in half lengthwise along the stitching.

5 Use scissors to trim fringe the entire length of the strip, being careful as you cut close to the stitch line but not through it.

6 Carefully separate each layer of fringed crepe paper and gently scrunch, crumple, and fluff.

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party

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pixie sticks Fabric is my favorite material to work with, and I have always had a love for fashion. The joy of making flowers and dresses is being able to bring fabric and fashion into a celebration.

These little stick models are made using fabric, embellishments, and photos of your birthday star and guests. Use them to welcome guests by sticking them in the yard, displaying on a table for place cards or centerpieces, or using them as cake toppers. Coordinate the colors, mix the dresses and flowers all together, or go with one theme. Personalize them with names and numbers, and you are sure to celebrate one’s big day in style!

by karla steele the happy birthday issue

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supplies • • • •

• • • • • •

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Pretty fabric Canvas or other thicker weight fabric Felted wool scraps for flowers Bamboo sticks (kabob sticks found in kitchen supplies at your local store) Embellishments: buttons, trim, ribbon, lace Needle and embroidery thread Glue Tissue paper Photos of the birthday boy/ girl and/or guests Large wooden spools, OR other base ideas: small tin jello molds, flower pots turned upside down, jars with pearls, candy, etc.

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to make the dresses 1 Use the pattern (link found in project index at the end of the magazine) and cut two dresses, or fold your fabric in half and cut once. Cut a third dress from a thick piece of fabric, like canvas.

(Using a thicker piece of fabric helps the dress to stand straight).

2 Sew one of the pretty fabric dresses to the piece of canvas, by hand or with machine.

3 Pick out buttons, trim, and embellishments. If you are sewing your buttons and trim on, it is a good idea to sew them on before you sew the two pretty pieces together. The same goes with stamping a name or number. (If you are gluing your buttons and trim on, you can wait until the two dress pieces are glued together).

4 Sew (or glue) the pretty back of the dress to the reinforced front.

Leave a small space at the top, just large enough for the bamboo stick if you are using a photo. If you are not using a photo, sew the top of the dress. Leave a space on the bottom of dress, large enough for the stuffed tissue. If you are using glue, do the same.

5 Stuff your dress with tissue paper, using the bamboo stick to fill from the bottom up.

6 Sew or glue along the bottom edge, keeping a small opening for the bamboo stick.

7 Cut out your photo, along with a piece of paper or fabric to use for the back side. Use a quick-dry glue to glue the photo to the top of the bamboo stick. Glue on the back piece so the stick is sandwiched inside the two pieces.

8 Slide the bamboo stick down through the bottom of the dress.

You may want to place a small amount of glue inside the top of the dress so the dress stays in place.

9 Pick out a base, choosing something that will act as a sturdy platform. Poke a hole through the platform, and glue stick in place if needed. If the stick is too large, cut down to your liking.

10 Add a name or a number on a small heart or crown to make your project fancy!

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flowers 1 From felted wool scraps, cut petals and a circle for the center. Layer the petals and hand-stitch together. Hand-stitch the circle to the center, and add a button.

2 Since the flowers are made from wool, there is no need to stuff with tissue unless you would like to use a lighter weight fabric.

3 From the bottom of the flower, poke the bamboo stick in between the two petal layers.

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as es as far back o g g n ti ea cr d g the xtiles an loved watchin My love for te I l, ir g le tt li a cre. As dma and mom n my memories ra g y m s a e hum oh-sosewing machin othes and thecl ll o d , es t ss dre ent. My patien ev r ated pajamas, o y la p a r umes fo lter dresses much-fun cost , helped me a 0 9 ed rn tu st preju y own. These m grandma, who em th e k a n to m me of from the patter ning of a lifeti in eg b e th ed ark Now, it is my e. d cious times m a m d n a h d hands nique an love for the u t, age 4, whose it K r te h g u 5, a d my n Bennett, age so y turn to teach M . te ea cr showelp and are eager to h takes pride in st ing me his late I’m . n lego creatio my so grateful to t, husband Tren rd who works ha ecr y to make m ible. ative days poss

Karla Steele

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me at 6 my new on bike

Before my 6th birthday, I had learned how to ride a bike without training wheels, but I did not have a big girl bike yet. My birthday is October 1 and, in Nebraska, one would think the weather is cold and crisp on that day. However, it seems my birthday lands on a warm, sunny day with a clear blue sky. My 6th birthday was no exception. I wore handmade overalls, had neighborhood friends come and play leap frog in my yard, ate a Winnie-the-Pooh cake on our shady porch, and took a carefree tour on my new big girl bike, pink of course, with no training wheels. What a day! This was one of many birthdays that I would spend with friends and family. It was a day of accomplishment, laughter and a memory that I treasure.

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inspired ideas

Buttery Wishes Some people say that if a butterfly lands on you, it means good luck. So, a birthday badge teaming with fluttering beauties must surely be an extra special birthday wish, granting the wearer much luck until their next birthday.

For this project, I was inspired by the graphic quality of the butterfly wing patterns, and how they resemble a blossom when clustered together. I like how, in this instance, the monochromatic palette is unexpected and serves to highlight the intricate patterns. Wanting to make the badge really dimensional, I chose to put the butterflies on a domed covered button and to score each as if fluttering their wings. A smaller, tight cuff of crepe paper around the button adds visual interest and fills out the channel between the button and the crepe paper back.

Attached to the presentation card, the badge is an unusual and engaging gift that can be presented in person or sent along as a birthday wish.

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Materials

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• • • • • • • •

White crepe paper, both a heavy, stiff crepe paper and a lighter crepe streamer Ivory or white cardstock and text- weight paper Vintage book pages Half Ball cover button, 17/8 inch White fabric, not too thick Ribbon, 1½ inch wide by 12 inches long {a heavy grosgrain works best} Adhesive {spray or double stick tape, plus hot glue} Thread Pin back

Tools • • • • • • • •

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Pencil with eraser Scissors Needle Hot glue gun Straight edge Craft knife Bone folder Circle punch, 2 inch

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1 Using double stick adhesive or spray adhesive, glue sheets of vintage book pages to text weight paper—using as many vintage pages as needed to cover. Print or copy butterfly image{s} onto sheet, sizing butterflies no bigger than 1.25 inches. Print or copy the presentation card {see appendix} onto card stock, and set aside.

2 Adhere more vintage book page{s} to back of butterfly sheet. With bone folder and straight edge, score vertical line at center of each butterfly. Cut out butterflies. You will need approx. 20. the happy birthday issue

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3 Cut out circle of fabric, using template from button package. On backside of metal button, grab fabric at top and bottom and on each side, using a pencil eraser to push the fabric into the metal prongs. Continue around until the fabric is taut all the way around. Press back plate onto button back.

4 For the outermost crepe paper circle, cut a piece of heavy crepe paper that is 1½ x 14 inches. For the smaller circle, cut a piece that is 1 x 20 inches. For both of the circles, sew a loose running stitch with needle and thread down the whole length, ¼ inch from one edge {this can also be done on a machine, if handy}. Gather the crepe paper into a circle by pulling the threads together and tying in a knot. Glue seam of crepe paper together with hot glue. {For the remainder of project, hot glue will be the method of gluing.} 5 Glue the button cover to the center of the small crepe paper circle. Trim around edge with scissors if needed to even out.

6 Cut out 2 circles of card stock, with a punch or by tracing and cutting by hand.

Glue one circle to the back of the large crepe paper circle.

7 Cut out 3 strips of card stock, ½ inch wide by 3 ½ inches. Cut out notches on both ends of each. Overlap the strips in the center, gluing them onto the larger crepe paper circle. Glue button onto larger crepe circle.

8 Cut ribbon into two 6-inch lengths and cut notches on one end of each. Overlap top of ribbons, fanning them out a bit. Secure them together with a little hot glue and then adhere them to the back of the button. Glue remaining card stock circle on the back, over the ribbon.

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9 Now to decorate the badge! Fold each butterfly at the center score line. You want the butterflies to be a tight, compact arrangement, resembling a blossom with petals.

For the butterflies to be dimensional rather than glued flat, use just a tiny dot of hot glue on the center fold edge and press with bone folder as glue cools.

10 Start gluing butterflies onto center of button, determining the best placement of each, orienting them in different directions. Their placement is a lot like a puzzle.

When two wings intersect, you can cut a small slit in one of the wings so that they fit together.

Continue gluing butterflies, from the center out toward the edges until complete.

11 Glue pin back to back of badge and glue strip of card stock over the base to secure.

12 Cut out presentation card (a link found in the project index at the end of the magazine). With a craft knife, cut out small rectangle to fit pin back. From remaining card stock, cut out 1-inch strip the full length of the sheet. Place badge on card with pin aligned with opening. Fold 1-inch strip of paper a number of times to create a thick rectangle, and slide it under the pin on the back of the card to secure badge.

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Denise Sharp is a visual artist with a fine arts degree in sculpture and printmaking. She is a maker of things, rarely without a project in hand or creative wheels turning. She likes finding inspiration in the unexpected, grace in the most simple of objects, and new ideas from old treasures. Her work grew out of a reverence for vintage charm and a desire to imbue personal celebrations with intimate and memorable details.

Denise’s work has been featured in boutiques and galleries across the county as well as numerous publications including Country Home and Martha Stewart Weddings. Most importantly, innumerable brides, gift-givers and celebrants have chosen her work to be a part of their own memorable occasions, and she could not feel more privileged. She lives in her hometown of Portland,Oregon, with her husband and two sons in an old house that she wishes was self-cleaning.

nnual ast fall at an a p is th y a d th y 40th bir rised st. I was surp I celebrated m a o C n o g re O ay kend on the er hunt. The d g girlfriend wee en v a sc s u o rate and hilari day tiara with an elabo -the-top birth er v o ly u tr a g e findin nd started with m ing glasses!) a d a re en ev d n ial h lights a (complete wit to another spec g in d a le re tu each adven from my famit is went on with v se ri rp su ended with a before I gift. The hunt to me and just y a d th ir B y p g Hap erse of ily. After singin sang a quiet v n so t es ld o y ndles, m ird’. eatles ‘Blackb blew out the ca B e th y, b a b a any g to him as unded by so m o a song we san rr su e, m li b was purely su e spent The moment forget it. I hav er ev n l il w I y love. special people I dearl ing about how k in th y a d t a eople ts since th many momen of joy to the p d in k t a th g n r the goal to bri ut gratitude fo I felt. It is my o h it w y b o g letting a day I cherish, not ple in my life. wonderful peo

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embellish

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wrappings One of the great things about free motion stitching is that it provides instant gratification. I love how quickly you can pull together a gift wrap with just a piece of muslin and a touch of imaginative free motion stitching. The trick is to cut and plan the piece so that the stitched focal point fits nicely onto the item that is being wrapped. Most sewing machines allow you to free motion stitch ... simply find the button that allows you to lower its feed dogs, and attach a darning foot. That’s it!

Happy free motion stitching.

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happy birthday wrapping 1 Cut muslin into sizes that will fit the gift you wish to wrap.

2 Free motion stitch “happy birthday� onto the muslin.

3 Wrap the gift with the stitched muslin and secure it in place by wrapping it with hemp yarn.

4 Add special embellishments, like special ribbons and glittered stars, to finish.

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inspired ideas

flower & scallop border 1 For this next wrap, cut a circle from a piece of fun fabric and adhere it to the muslin using spray adhesive.

2 Free motion stitch within the circle and then stitch a flower motif around the circle.

3 Gather a piece of sheet music and cut a scalloped edge.

4 Stitch the scalloped sheet music onto the muslin.

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trio of posies wrapping 1 Gather wallpaper, sheet music, and red felt and cut small circles from each.

2 Free motion stitch the circles to muslin and then stitch stems and leaves.

3 Wrap gift and secure in place with string or even green thread to resemble grass for the flowers.

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Jenny Doh

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om scendoh.c e r .c w w . of w founder set Studio is r e h m o o D S y f Jenn hief o naitor-in-C d E r e ooks: Sig b m r o w f e n d n d a bran th ves (Nor or of two a h t S u t a r A is She s) and ges ark Book L ( s st challen le o y t m S o e t r n u t nd solutio actively a ks). The o o t o y B it t il h Lig the ab lieves, is e b e h s , in life n. ully liste thoughtf

mini project

A humble vintage jar is fabulous packaging for a small gift to a friend. Wrap the gift in tissue paper and place inside. Then create a free-motion stitched and layered heart.

Wrap the jar with hemp twine and add a note in a scroll. Delightful!

--Jenny Doh

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give

happy bir day th

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inspired ideas

Snip Snip When inspiration hits, I enjoy Scherenschnitte paper cutting. My Mom is from Denmark and I was introduced to paper cuttings on summer vacations there. All over the world, many cultures have their own tradition and style of paper cutting. Swiss shepherds would cut paper love letters and inventories of their livestock while tending their flock. As a parlor game, Hans Christian Anderson would simultaneously cut an illustration as he told a story.

The term 'scherenschnitte' is a German one, meaning scissor cut.

by Ingrid Lavoie the happy birthday issue

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I use an X-acto knife to cut my folded design to create a mirror image. Symmetry is an integral aspect to the finished piece. A lot of comments about my work suggest it must take you hours, or you must have so much patience. For me, designing and cutting an idea is very relaxing and rewarding. Opening and unfolding a finished paper cutting is a bit like opening a present, for you are never quite sure what the finish will look like until that point.

For a beginner, I would recommend using a self-healing cutting mat. The template I have made for you could be printed on a nice medium-weight paper, folded on the left edge, and then the grey areas cut away.

Using a light table, you could also trace the outline of the drawing. I would recommend taping down your paper before beginning to cut. Start with the smallest shapes first and work from the top down. It is important to not rush and to remember to not tense your shoulders.

Take breaks, stretching and looking up from your cutting board. Also change your blade OFTEN! It is much easier to cut with a sharp blade.

I’m sharing the template for the papercutting shown on page 50. Find a link for it in the project index of this issue found at the end of this magazine. Good luck and have fun!

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Ingrid Lavoie

Here I am with Andy Gibb at my party! I must’ve been in 5th or 6th grade, and so in love with Mr. Gibb that I received two of these posters! My Mom was away and my sister and her best friend threw the party for me.

They both came to my school to pick up my friends and me. We all walked home and I was so proud of my older, cooler sister!

I'm holding a Stieff kitty that was a very special present from my Mom.

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birthday bouquet I adore birthdays. There is nothing more exciting to me than helping friends and family celebrate the day that they were born. What I most love is taking the time to create something special, just for them, something that lets them know that they are special to me, that I care and that I took the time to make them something with my whole heart.

This birthday bouquet, created with vintage industrial sewing bobbins and piano roll flowers, is something that will long outlast a traditional floral bouquet. It’s full of texture and definitely full of love and, if you can find the right vintage register flag number, it can help mark that special day for years to come.

by Kerry Lynn Yeary

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Supplies needed : • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Piano roll paper Vintage register flag Industrial sewing spools {3} Felt Vintage bottle Seed beads Vintage mercury glass beads Vintage mini cupcake tray Shredded vintage book paper Ribbon & linen scraps 1” scrap paper/chipboard circles {3} Galvanized wire {for flower stems} Vintage paper scraps

Tools needed : • • • •

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Glue gun Scissors Sewing machine Vintage typewriter

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To make piano-roll flowers: Cut at least 18� of paper from the piano roll. Fold the piano roll paper lengthwise {so the two side edges come together} and then fold again lengthwise so you have two folded layers. Snip along the edge that is not folded, about .25� apart, from one end to the other, making sure to not cut through to the folded edge.

Once cut, gather and pleat the paper as you slowly glue it to your chipboard circle. Work your way around, gluing the paper to the circle until you have a formed paper flower base. Trim any excess paper.

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1.

2.

To make felt flower centers : Cut six pieces of felt 24” x 3”.

Fold each in half and sew a 1/8” seam down the raw edges.

Snip along the folded edge about .25” apart, from one end to the other, making sure to not cut through the sewn seams. Slowly wrap your felt, gluing along the sewn seams until your flower is rolled and gathered into a large carnation flower. Add three mercury glass beads for the centers.

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3.

To assemble: Glue a 6” piece of twisted wire in between two piano roll flowers, making sure to leave at least a 1” stem. Glue the flower stems into the small hole at the top of the industrial sewing spools {this will help reinforce the flowers}. Glue the felt flowers on the center of the piano roll flowers.

Glue the bottoms of the spools into the wells of the cupcake tray, making sure to stagger them. Add vintage ribbon scraps to each.

Make the “date” marker by pouring seed beads into the vintage bottle and then placing the vintage register sign into the bottle. Add some ribbon scraps and a typed flag saying {I typed “happiest birthday wishes”}, and glue bottle to another cupcake tray well. Glue some shredded book paper into each of the wells, to cover & add texture.

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and all things tattered of r to ec ot pr & A lover lives in beautiful ry ea Y nn Ly ry er worn, K sband ornia with her hu if al C y, nt ou C a Sonom tely ho they affectiona w n re ild ch o tw r and thei she rt History major, A n A ". es tl lit he calls "t lieves t and craft and be ar t ou ab te na io is pass eryday. ing something ev ak m in y dl te ar wholehe ds, s vintage cake stan ct lle co y el iv ss se She ob 't pattern and couldn & t in pr e ag nt vi adores r drinking one of he ut ho it w y da r he begin es. husband’s soy latt

Kerry Lynn Yeary

tles, t caring for her lit Her days are spen rRoad. r kits {www.Kenne pe pa l ta gi di g in design r hing she can get he yt an ng ri te al d an com} d in have been publishe s gn si de er H . on hands , and Scrapbook Trends d an s io ud St t se Somer rapfor two amazing sc gn si de to d se es bl she is i Bowlin , 7gypsies and Jenn rs re tu ac uf an m book {and more of her work ew vi n ca ou Y s.

Studio r blog r daily life} on he he of e ps im gl a catch rRoad.com}. {http://blog.Kenne

picture erished birthday this is my most ch ar was er of my eighth ye because the summ had. birthday i've ever probably the best at way. i th t ou to start em se 't dn di it , however rench toast vorite breakfast {f woke up to my fa ion of opening the eager anticipat d an s} ie rr be ith my chores w nd that i had to do fi to ly on ts en es ocked my pr uld begin. i was sh co g in at br le ce e . fibefore th u can understand yo re su i'm as ed & disappoint ing under my the barn, mumbl to t ou g in ad he came nally it was, i slowly be ir fa un w ho t ou breath ab aming with set, with tears stre more & more up re walnut up on a small 5-ac g in ow gr . ep st each were also valley meant we l ra nt ce e th in d d the orchar ns and ducks, an ke ic ch , gs pi by surrounded g. ays done first thin feedings were alw my heart oser to the barn, but when i got cl sound? my. what was that skipped a beat. oh rst pen. the ed. there in the fi am re sc i ? be it d s, was a coul y for so many year pt em en be d ha behind one that rthday sign. and bi t an gi , ge hu a huge sign, it was unreal. live, brown pony. , al re a . ny po a it, had wished ven-year-old self se y m at th h is w ning. every e true on that mor m co d ha ng lo all spring ', and , my sweet 'missy she was beautiful she was mine.

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sweet m issy & m e

Kerry Lynn created this fun thank-you note printable to share with you.

Find a link for it in the project index at the end of this magazine. the happy birthday issue

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create

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A yummy cupcake in your favorite flavor!

Strawberry or vanilla, which do you savor?

Decorate any way you wish, Sprinkles & frosting! How delish!

Made with notions from your craft stash, Share one at your next birthday bash!

by Timothy Haugen the happy birthday issue

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• • • • • • •

C ft ffelt Craft lt Craft glue Needle/thread Trim or ribbon Polyfill stuffing Embroidery floss Pins

• • •

• • •

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Cut felt from pattern pieces in your favorite colors.

Sew the side of the cake with a backstitch.

Gather cake base with a gathering stitch. Before cinching completely, stuff cake full with polyfill. Pull opening closed with gathering stitch and secure thread with knot.

Sew side of the baking cup. Pin cup base to the cup side and sew together.

Glue on eyes and embroider mouth with embroidery floss.

Decorate cupcake to your liking. Add sprinkles, frosting, or strawberries. Add trim or ribbon around cup. Have fun!

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myfantastictoys.com

Timothy Haugen

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My birthday is only 6 days away from Christmas, so I always received one big combined present which I like very much. But my favorite birthday memories involve a tradition started by my stepmother. Every year my family would go out to dinner and see the children's theatre holiday play. I remember bits from every play: the children flying in Peter Pan, the bawdy stepmother from Cinderella and the whale’s giant eye from Pinocchio! The tradition began with A Christmas Carol and ended many years later with a revised version of the same. I'll always treasure the memories from my birthday plays.

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e materials like I like taking simpl oth, or pipe felt, pom poms, cl ing fantastic cleaners and mak art, crafts are things. Unlike fine yone of any age. accessible to ever te craft tutorials.

That is why I crea er for just a short I've been a toymak . From a young time, and I love it , drawing cartoons age, I have been y ensional toys of m and making 3-dim drawings just seemed to be the natural progression of my art.

PHOTOGRAPH by Pam Garrison

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Dollhouse to Go I made a dollhouse for my daughter Lily when she was about two. She LOVED it and constantly wanted to play with it and bring it to the shop when we went to work.

That’s when I got the idea of a traveling dollhouse! When I was younger, I made similar playsets for myself out of shoe boxes, only not nearly as fancy.

Start with a paper suitcase as your canvas and decorate it as a house. You could really get carried away adding darling details.

When I was making Lily’s dollhouse, it was difficult to find doll furniture that could actually be “played” with, since most of what was on the market was geared toward looking, not playing. As a result, I made most of the furniture out of wood blocks and spools. I also found some sturdy unpainted wood furniture, which I painted and finished with a non-toxic lacquer.

I found these sweet little girls on Etsy (seller TooCute), but you could make similar dolls from wood shapes. Add a window made from popsicle sticks and a bit of fabric. A wooden picket fence makes this little house-to-go a home.

by Heather Buhaj the happy birthday issue

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Like many other little girls, Heath creating wit er started h leftover s craps and m her Mother’ ateri s and Grand mother’s pro als from scraps were jects. Those turned into the most wo treasures fo nderful little r her dolls.

Heather Buhaj

hday parties I love, love, love birt rowing up I and celebrations! G rthday parties didn't have many bi ildren. There with lots of other ch and carnival weren't pony rides derful family. games, just my won ose-knit and We were a small, cl e, the most loving family. For m ve from all of vivid memories I ha tle girl are of my birthdays as a lit r how many my cakes. No matte dolls or Barpretty dresses, baby I remember bie dolls I received, My favorite my cakes the most. a Circus cake cake every year was plastic aniwith a Big Top, little in the center! mals and a ballerina

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After havin g her childre n, Heather embraced h truly er creativity and the opp create. With ortunity to a “good eye ”, creative g love for all enes, and things prett y, her creati widespread ve tastes are and always evolving. Sh controllable e has an un love for butt ons, lace, fa paper and g bric and ravitates to ward projec niques that ts and techuse them su ch as sewin & mixed m g, paper cra edia. fts, Heather liv es a “Crazy, but Beautifu four childre l Life” with n and wond her e rful husban apeake Bay d near the C in Maryland hes. She puts it the world to all out there read—the g for ood, the ba on her blog d and the c : www.myd rafty ailydoseofc razy.blogsp ot.com

mini project

These vintage-inspired primer tags in a birthday theme are perfect for adding to gifts. Make your own colorful washers by punching a small circle from bright cardstock, glue in place where the tag’s hole will go, and punch the hole through both the tag and circle. Print your own set of 6 primer tags from the template from the link found in the project index at the end of this issue.

--Pam Keravuori

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Si se A silk ribbon rose is one of my favorite gifts to give. They are enjoyable to make and can be used in so many ways. Your special birthday friend will surely love it.

And, because they are handmade, each one is unique. You’ll love handling Hanah silk with its subtle shading and lovely softness. But first, before I show you how to make this pretty rose, I’ll give you a dozen beautiful ways to use it.

Sharon Gior the happy birthday issue

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Supp es • • • • • • • • • •

1½ yards of 2½ inch Hanah silk ribbon 14” green Hanah silk ribbon for leaves Crinoline Green felt Pins Needle & thread Hot glue gun Pin-back X-acto knife Cardboard (as a work surface)

1 Fold ribbon in half length-wise and pin close to edges.

2 Thread a needle with a single strand of thread.

Knot one end.

3 Fold one end of the ribbon down diagonally toward you, about a half inch below the ribbon, thus leaving a tail.

4 Fold that piece in half again, and begin to roll.

Roll several times until you have a little bud.

Place this on a piece of crinoline, with the bud standing upright. Secure this piece onto the crinoline with stitches. Then continue to stitch along the edge of the entire ribbon.

5 Leaving the needle hanging from the end of the ribbon, pull the thread, gathering the ribbon.

6 Wrap the gathered ribbon around the center bud, adjusting the gathers as you fashion the rose.

7 When you are satisfied with your rose, stitch the remaining end down and knot.

8 Using the same needle and thread (you may add more thread if you are low), begin to stitch the rose within each folded layer onto the crinoline.

Your stitches should be small and placed near the edges of the ribbon. Pull the thread through the back crinoline and back another fold in the rose. Continue sewing the layers until the rose seems secure, and make a secure knot on the bottom of the crinoline.

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9 Cut two pieces of green ribbon about 7” each.

Fold one edge towards the middle, leaving a small edge below the ribbon (about 3/8”).

Fold the opposite edge towards the center, leaving the same edge. Pin edges.

10 Baste through the ribbon near the base, catching the ribbon in the back. Pull the stitches tightly, gathering the ribbon, and tie a knot.

Repeat for second leaf.

Tips •

Look for the seam in the ribbon to help determine the “right” side of the ribbon.

•

The same rose can be made without the fold.

Simply create a running stitch along one edge and follow instructions above.

•

Hanah silk is hand-dyed and comes in many colors and color gradations. Purchase it at specialty stores or online.

•

You may use wired ribbon for this project using the same techniques. Just eliminate the baste stitch along edge of ribbon, using the wire to gather the ribbon; and do not fold the ribbon in half. Simply use a 1 – 1 ½ inch ribbon, but note, this ribbon rose has a totally different look from the silk ribbon rose. (Note: remove the wire from the lower edge of the green ribbon before starting the leaf.)

•

Use black crinoline for darker colored ribbons, white for lighter.

11 Stitch each leaf underneath the rose onto the crinoline.

12 Trim the crinoline into a circle – be sure not to clip any of the threads of your stitching or silk!

13 Cut a circle out of felt, a little larger than the crinoline. Place the pin-back on the felt, mark the ends, and make a slit at each end with the exact-o knife.

14 Place the pin-back through the slits, and apply hot glue to the back. Immediately adhere the pin-back and felt to the crinoline.

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From paper and fabric art s, to calligra ron Giordan phy and pho o loves to cr tography, Sh ea te things of b She delights aeauty to share in working w with others. ith glitter, vel vintage finds. vet, ribbons, She began h paper, ink an er creative p by her artsy d ursuits as a ch Auntie Rose ild, inspired who always her. Sharon’s had somethin work has bee g new to tea n shown in S Crafting with ch omerset Stud Carol Duvall io, Paper , scrapnfonts and on HGT .com, got mil V. k campaign

Sharon Giordano

Sharon finds great joy in fl ea markets a to find somet nd tag sales. hing unusua “It’s a thrill l or special v love finding in tage items. I things once-l especially oved, things putting them that have a h to use.” istory, and One of her b irthday tradit ions today is velopes in C lettering birth opperplate ca day enll igraphy to m special. “I bel ake the recip ieve you sho ie nts feel uld inject a sp your life each ark of creati day. I wear m v it y into y vintage rhin use my good estones to w china frequen ork and tly. Life is to you feel goo o short - if it d, then do it makes !”

A California native, she li ves in the Sa n Francisco her two cats Bay Area wit , Gracie and h Nipper, in a describes as home she a bit of whim sy, French co shabby chic. untry and You’ll find ta les of her crea tive life at afancifullife. blogspot.com .

er. n rememb a c I s a g f the as lon far end o birthdays e d h t e t v a lo e . e I’v littlest on day party h e t h ir t b , m ’s r a e y sist fond Here I ating at m ere, as my mom is r b le e c , s table being th ved partie d lo e I v d lo il I h e c ther! small I’m sur have ano that as a e ld u m o g c e in ll g if w of te ays askin lw a s a w d an

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photograph by Sharon Giordano

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Here’s a great idea for a party favor package that acts as pretty party dÊcor to boot. Not only do these hanging cornucopias make original gift bags, but you can also hang them from a chandelier as a stunning centerpiece, or from doorknobs as a greeting, or use them as place markers hanging from the back of each chair. They’re a great addition to any party with hardly any expense. Adapt the party cones to suit the party you are planning, glue a photo of the birthday boy or girl on the cone, and have themed treats sticking out of the top. The best part of all?

Your guests will be delighted to realize that they get to take one of the pretties home with them!

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supp es •

• • • • •

Decorative paper—choose a heavier weight paper such as wallpaper (not vintage wallpaper, it’s too fragile and thin), or cardstock weight scrapbook paper, or heavier gift wrap paper sold in single sheets, not rolls (again, too fragile) Scissors Glue gun or glue dots Glitter Crepe paper Ribbon

how to

I used decorative wallpaper remnants from a sample book to make these pretty packages. {Tip—you can often get discontinued wallpaper books from paint stores just for the asking}. You can make one of these cornucopias from any sized rectangle. Mine are very large, made from a paper measuring 17 x 12 inches. But since my paper pieces were remnants, they weren’t large enough to make the cornucopia I wanted, so I sewed them together until I had a page of that size.

Note: If you do not like the inside of your paper, you can make a lining piece by cutting another rectangle. Glue it to the back of your paper now (so you have doublesided paper) or wait till your cone is glued together and then shape it and drop it in.

Gently roll your paper rectangle into a cone shape, making the bottom tighter and the top more open. It will take a few attempts to shape the cone as you want it, holding the bottom of the cone with one hand and adjusting the top opening with the other hand. {Once you make one of these, the rest are easy peasy.} When you feel comfortable with the shape of your cone, using scissors to shape further if desired, set it down for just a bit. It doesn’t matter if it unrolls, it will go back to the shape easily when you pick it up and play with it again.

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Y can ten get sco inued wall per boo om i stores j t for e aski . .

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To add a crepe paper frill at the bottom, I take a length of crepe paper roll like those found at the party store and roll it up, keeping one end very tight, the other end looser. Glue this down to the inside bottom of your cone so that when you roll into a cone shape again, the crepe paper sticks out from the bottom. Or you can insert the crepe paper roll into the cornucopia from the outside after your cornucopia is glued. Either way works fine. Using scissors, cut the crepe paper into thin little strips, and bend and fold them so they flare out and look festive.

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Make a crepe paper rosette by taking a length of crepe paper (mine was a 14� strip) and begin folding the bottom in on itself as you go around in a circle (see photo opposite). It is sometimes easier to put a small circle of white glue on a piece of scrap paper and fold the center of the rosette right onto that glue, holding the folds in place. I made two of these rosettes, glued one on top of the other, and then put a little puddle of white glue in the center and covered with glitter.

Set aside to let dry.

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Reshape your cornucopia and glue the cone shape in place. I like to use either numerous glue dots or one of the glue strips (similar to glue dots but in a line). This way, you can reshape if you are not liking your cone. Once the cone is glued, take a hole punch and punch a hole in each side of the cone, 1�down from the top. Push ribbon through one hole from the inside to the outside of the cone and tie in a knot. Repeat on other side. Now glue a strip of loosely gathered or folded crepe paper to the inside top edge of the cone for a pretty finish.

Last step is gluing on your glittered rosette or a paper photo.

One year my daughter had a cookie exchange party and we glued a recipe onto the front for a decorative effect. Once every guest had gathered their cookies, we tucked them safely into their cornucopia to carry home!

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Pam Garrison

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Pam Garris on is a cra fting artist about crea passionate ting and in spiring oth ers to crea She is par ticularly fo te. nd of hand crafting holiday tre asures to b e kept and to her chil passed do wn dren and e ventual gr andchildre She shares n! her talents by teachin in the U.S g a t art events . and abro ad. You m ay have se work in nu en her merous ar t books an d magazin or on HGT es, V’s “That’ s Clever.”

She is cur licensing d rently esigns wit h Papaya I nc. Pam re in Souther sides n Californ ia with he r husband two childr and en where s he strives to incorpo creativity rate into her li fe every da y. You can follow her creative ta les on her blog, pamgarriso n.typepad.c om

photograph by Pam Garrison

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rst P lace This birthday prize-ribbon is in honor of my mother. She had a birthday that fell on a holiday and usually spent her day putting on a dinner for family. In fact, she rarely had a proper birthday celebration. I share my birthday with one of my daughters and, as wonderful as that is (it truly is special), I find I am running around on my birthday to make sure hers is unique.

There are so many inspirations out there in blogs and books for children’s birthday celebrations—how wonderful to explore options for honoring the rest of us! This prize-ribbon corsage is a way of showing your best friend, aunt, grandmother, teacher, sister, daughter or mother how special they are. Let’s celebrate us! This can become part of an annual birthday tradition— celebrating someone dear and letting them know they are number one in your eyes.

by Tracey Fisher

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supp es For each prize ribbon corsage, you’ll need the following in a selection of gorgeous fabrics: • 2 - 3 strips of fabrics from 2 - 3” wide and 17 - 22” long, to make the flowers of the corsage (or for a fuller effect, use a 4 X 22” long strip folded in half to create layers) • 5” diameter circle to make one yo-yo • 2 strips of fabrics1.5 x 7” long, for hanging ribbon • 4” square of linen for button cover • 1 x 3” linen strip for banner (this will be folded to make .5 x 3” strip) • 2” felt circle (wool felt looks the best and is the sturdiest) • Embroidery thread and needle • Button, to be covered by hand with fabric (or cover a metal one from a kit), at least 1 to 1.5” in diameter for effect and with a loop in the back to anchor them to your corsage layers • Brooch hardware (or you could use a large safety pin in a pinch) • Extra ribbons and yarn • Fabric marker • Fabric stiffener (optional)—I used Lite Steam a Seam2 (ironed between layers of fabric) to create the banner and for the back flower fabric of my linen corsage for shape • Fabric glue I created 2 corsages to share with you: a bright pink one embroidered with #1 Mom, and a slightly smaller one made with natural linen.

When choosing your materials, I think a combination of solid and print is best, maybe two or three different fabrics.

You’ll need to decide on how large your corsage is going to be. For my pink corsage, I went with a whopping 6” diameter! Which means my largest flower started with a strip of fabric 3 x 17”.

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ruffly flowers Sew a running stitch with knotted thread approximately a quarterinch in from the edge along a strip of fabric, and pull thread to gather and form your flower. If your strip is long enough to allow, you can continue to loop around to create another layer.

For the natural linen corsage, I used fabric stiffener to give my largest flower more stability and create more distinct folds. Following the directions for using the fabric stiffener provided on the package, I ironed two layers together by folding a 4 x 22” strip, making it 2 x 22”. I kept the rough fringe on the outer edges.

Layer as many of these flowers as you’d like in different sizes.

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yo-yo flowers To make a yo-yo, simply run a stitch around the perimeter of a circle of fabric with a knotted thread, and cinch. To create a yo-yo 2.5” in diameter, start with a circle 5” in diameter.

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bu on topper Finish the layers with a button. You can cover a button from a kit or cover an existing button. (Or consider using a beautiful vintage button on its own as your center.)

To cover a button using a button cover kit, use the directions included with the kit for circle dimensions and instructions.

To cover a button without a kit, you’ll need to start with a circle of fabric at least twice the diameter of the button. For instance, when I covered my 1.5” button, I started with a 3”

diameter circle. With a running stitch and knotted thread (just like a yo-yo), I pulled my cover tight over my button and knotted it up.

Don’t worry if it looks a little messy, because the back will be well hidden when you sew the layers of the corsage together.

I love to embroider a design on the fabric I use to cover the button. Be mindful of the size of the button you’ll be covering as you plan your design, and remember to be careful to center the design.

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ha i ri!on The hanging ribbon really makes this project a prize ribbon! You will need two 1.5”-wide ribbons cut at the end into a “V” shape (also known as a dovetail). I like to use two complimentary fabrics, approximately 7” long. I rather like the look of unravelling fabric, so I tore my fabric and left it as is. If you prefer, you could sew the edges or actually use wide ribbon.

I added narrow vintage ribbon and bits of other ribbons and yarns to match the fabric used in the corsage. I angled the two strips slightly in a “v” to create a separation and then tacked them into place.

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assem"i y r layers Layer your flowers and yo-yos, starting with the largest as your back flower and descending in size from there. Carefully tack the layers together (with fabric glue and/or thread) as you build your corsage.

Top the layers with your button center. Finally, anchor your hanging ribbons with fabric glue and/or stitches.

To make the prize ribbon into a pin, first sew a brooch pin to a circle of felt. Attach this pin assembly to the center back of your assembled ribbon corsage with a bit of fabric glue, making sure the pin is horizontal to your corsage.

To add a banner to the front of the prize ribbon corsage, trim a piece of fabric to size. I used fabric stiffener and folded the fabric to create a wavy banner. Write a message with a fabric pen, such as “birthday girl�, onto the fabric strip. Secure into place using fabric glue.

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A few years ago, after a career in corporate and broadcast productions, about the time the market crashed, I unexpectedly lost my mother. Work dried up, and I found that crafting gave me such a sense of comfort during my grief. There was this world of yummy crafting supplies with endless possibilities. I found myself looking for projects and, armed with an inspirational Betz White cupcake, a whole world of crafting and blogs opened up to me. I took sewing classes and knitting classes and made little projects for family and friends.

I knitted cupcake hats and viking helmets for teachers’ babies, made sock monkeys for friends and sewed up zippered pouches and purses for gifts.

Tracey Fisher

These days, instead of having my teenage and tweenage daughters following in my footsteps, I have found that I am following theirs. My oldest daughter opened her etsy shop when she was 11 and now I find both my daughters are my creative mentors. While my daughter opened her etsy shop on a whim within two hours, I procrastinated for 2 years and struggled for days to get my etsy shop up and running. Recently, they both have created blogs that their friends and family follow. This may inspire my next creative steps - perhaps my own blog - maybe about mothers and daughters ... but first I’ll have to ask them how to do it!

www.etsy.com/shop/helanaandali

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mini project

Birthday candles can make a sweet simple gift. Purchase (or make!) candles enough to represent the number of years and bundle them up in a sweet little paper bag. The older the recipient, the bigger the bundle! Google “make your own birthday candles� to find online tutorials if you choose to make your own.

--Amy Powers

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Photographs by Robert Wehmeier

a wee birthday What’s more fun than a birthday party? A tiny birthday party to honor a miniature artist! Designed inside a 5” x 7” x 3” box, this whimsical room is packed with detail -- miniscule presents wrapped with big bows, gifts of dollhouse furniture smaller than a Tic Tac, a dollhouse, a scrapbook of mini projects, coffee with teeny spoons and of course, cake! Inexpensive dollhouse furniture has been enhanced with simple hand-painted flowers and pink trim. The box is covered inside and out with scrapbook paper; cardstock, printer paper and a minisize photo make up the tiny book in front of the dollhouse. A mini shelf is painted to match the scene and a Happy Birthday banner (a scrapbook embellishment) helps to tell the story.

This roombox, designed and created by Pat Wehmeier, is in a private collection.

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was a t since she is rt a ia d e a mixed-m Art Institute n e e th e b f o s l a o h o r h ie c canPat Wehme ed an MFA from the S g paper and in d lu c rn in a , e ls redisateria child. She of various m t twelve years ago, she ts il u q e d a and m s. . Abou ty-five years se miniature n u e o h tw ll r o d fo g , s n va reati to assion for c s allows her re tu ia in covered a p m se tive king dollhou aper and fabric in crea a m t a th d late to Pat discovere materials, paint, clay, p ll ages can re a f o le d p n o u e fo p s that combine ays. She find w l a c si im h and w vintage doll orks of art. w ts c e re ll o tu c ia o in ls m Pat a d 60’s g miniatures, m the 30s, 40’s, 50’s an in k a m to n o e ries fr In additio and accesso always on th ’s re e u h it S . rn ls fu e v s, a house nsive tr s in her exte d n fi e sh t a re. th idden treasu h a r fo t u o look vintage doll f o e g d le w no r love and k he recently started To share he ,s rs with othe . Wehmeier M house items ia ic tr a at P siness: s. She sells re tu ia in her own bu M d andcrafte in creating Vintage & H s and teaches classes and how ues, repairs c s re o miniature s ls a e life to iatures. Sh ringing new b unique min , re u it rn tiny fu transforms ieces. bandoned p otherwise a tside of r cottage ou ent) huso d u T a in nd pati Pat lives her sweet (a ge sons and h it w o g a Chic ena o creative te tw l, il B d n a b houses. thirteen doll

Pat Wehmeier

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le red #ess Why not send adorable party-dress invitations to all your friends for your next birthday party? Once they see their sweet invitation, they are sure to arrive in their own best party dress!

S$y Camar

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Supplies • • • • • • • • • •

1 doll dress Letter stamp & Staz-On ink 5x7” piece of cotton fabric, + extra Hot glue gun, regular glue stick & Fabri-Tac Pinking shears 5x7” or 8x10” piece of white card stock Mini safety pins & buttons Sewing machine & thread Scissors Millinery flowers, seam binding, and pompom trim

Little Red Party Dress Instructions 1 Find a doll dress. I used one that fits a Cabbage Patch doll, but you could use a much smaller one. I bought a bag of dresses on e-Bay, but have also seen them at antique markets.

2 Stamp the recipients' name on a small piece of cotton fabric, rip around the edges and glue onto top front part of dress with Fabri-Tac. 3 Glue (5x7”) cotton fabric onto (5x7”) cardstock with glue stick and insert into printer. Lay out invitation on your computer and print onto cotton fabric.

4 Cut around invitation with pinking shears (NOTE: do NOT remove paper backing.)

5 Place invitation over the lower part of the dress and sew or stitch all around.

6 Embellish the invitation with mini safety pins and buttons, using hot glue gun.

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Gingham Cutie Variation 1 Follow steps 1 and 2 on preceding pages.

2 With a photo-editing program, bring up a photo of a girl wearing a dress. Erase any marks in the lower part of the dress that will interfere with the text and add invitation details to that area.

3 Print girl onto (8x10�) white card stock (make sure her image will fit inside your doll dress).

4 Glue image onto wrong side of patterned paper, and cut around the image.

5 Embellish image with millinery flowers, seam binding, buttons and pompom fringe.

6` Surround image with dress and fasten in the back.

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urs end ho ing p s o t used d glu girl, I ges an e a l t m t i i l g stin As a and pa cts together. was creatg n i t t je cu tI und ob at wha ge. little fo iscovered th rt Assembla y d n A Later I Collage and eate with ma g rer s c eatin ing wa continue to that cr ul. My d n I u y o If y so Toda media. er part of m various f o s m for d in deep s lfills a een publishe my studio i u f y l l a d b nes, an rk has udios. art wo gton magazi , Scissors-St in aper oped Stamp loth, P e also devel larly C n i shown years I hav old. I regu to, n gs he Over t n for all thin here in Toro find e s o i t g s e a pas Mark t vinta to my a e e u r q g i t a n d visit A in search of ork or to ad , a w d t y ar Cana de in m u l c n i to ns. llectio o c a r b e l le ce a doub t ouso g I , ay of my c ay d ot.com l h l p t r s A i g . b e o y l v w b E m . p s Year ear on stay u reations sy.com c s y Every y t falls on New nd we got to e world d n a s th ri it, a sandyrelief.et s tion, fo s e to vis felt as though irthday e r m t o s c i d d b l t www. ins wou ight. It almos ay! A special rted for d n a t h d s t i rn past m rating my bir ion my Mom ould tu w t b i e m l d o e a r c yM ' by was is a t thday, m ong 'Birthday i I have r i y b r o y m m me Patt the s r on ery yea ayer and play ed, my cousin v E . e m pl ay record le the song pl sterically. on her i y h tles. W e and laugh h a e B e h t nc ould da and I w

Sandy Camarda

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Photograph by Sandy Camarda

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create

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%ncyf sit-upons Here’s a modern-day version of the old 'sit-upon'.

You may remember them from Girl Scouts. Meant to be used to sit upon damp surfaces, mine incorporate some of the fantastic oilcloth now on the market, using it on one side to provide a water barrier.

On the other side, I've used basic quilting cotton, but lined with a napped sateen for stability and added durability. They are filled with heavy batting, but 1" foam would give a nice fill as well. It was fun to also include different types of trims like gigantic rick-rack, flat welt, micro-cording and pleated ribbon. Oh, and I included a handle to grab it and go! A quick and easy project perfect for a birthday picnic in the park. The bright colors, fun fabrics and functionality will surely make the crafty mom who puts together a few of these the envy of the other bleacher moms as they cheer on their team!

by Ellen Wigginton the happy birthday issue

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Materials Needed • • • • •

Sewing machine Scissors Ruler Thread Pins

For each Sit-Upon • • • •

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1” x 15” x 17” pre-cut foam 17” x 19” piece of oilcloth fabric 17” x 19” piece of coordinating fabric Approximately two yards of trim, welt, piping, rick-rack, ribbon, or other embellishment to insert between the two fabrics. (If a carrying handle is desired, an additional 12” of webbing, twill tape, etc. will be needed.)

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Instructions 1 Place coordinating fabric, right side facing up, on work surface.

Glue or pin trim, welt, etc. to the right side of the fabric, matching raw edges, allowing for ½” stitch line. Sew the two unfinished ends of the trim together by hand to conceal the join.

2 Insert carrying handle with edges matching the raw edge of the fabric, and pin. Machine-baste or glue-baste trim (and handle) to fabric.

3 Lay oilcloth fabric, right side facing up, and fabric with trim attached, right side facing down, on work surface. Pin both layers together ONLY IN THE ½” SEAM ALLOWANCE TO AVOID PERMANENT PIN HOLES. First pin at all four corners, then fill in pinning to secure layers together to take to the sewing machine.

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4 Stitch ½” seam on all four sides, leaving approximately 8” unsewn for turning. Clip corners.

Tips for working with oilcloth

5 Turn fabric “sandwich” right side out.

•

Don’t iron oilcloth. It will likely melt!

6 Roll foam and insert into fabric sandwich.

Flatten and make sure foam fills all four corners.

•

Pins will leave holes, so pin only within the seam allowance, or use alternative methods of fastening the fabric together like springstyle clothes pins, rubber cement or binder clips from the office supply store.

•

A Teflon presser foot is helpful to alleviate the fabric sticking on the throat plate when sewing with vinyl-like fabrics.

7 Close opening by hand or machine stitching.

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coming sewing is be “ is th f o h hat g ! I say, enou been cool! W s y a lw a s a h I love to sew ing fabulous onsense. Sew ic with some g a m g in cool again” n k a m From café trendy about w supplies? fe a d wouldn’t be n a t ve n creative tale rs in 2011, I’ e le v tt o li c a ip , sl c y ri c b fa floun an too! e seventies to ou that you c y curtains in th ll te to re e nd I’m h made it all, a n read everybody ca st o m d n a , g ar t like cookin t? When I he lo h g a ri is l, g a e in m w e s S liciou given it a whip up a de just haven’t y e th k in a recipe and th something a y can’t sew, I to e n th o y e v sa o e m n o n some w, the our rt with a pillo rst meal on y ta fi S t a . e th c n g a n h ri c a fair e prep own allenging. Lik pleting your h m c o c re o m m o fr le s tt e li deriv ere and sfaction one o….get out th S . g in ll lfi own, the sati fu ind accessory ject is just as -k a ro fp -o g e in n o w a se first r rough in g around you vity shine th ti in a k o re c lo r e u k o li y g let feelin king it e. There’s no a hand in ma d a h u o y t a for your hom ing th ce and realiz personal spa your own! projdecor sewing e m o h y m s , share online uveau Stitch ve listing of si n e h re p m My blog, No o ac I wels, along with Fabric Files. e h T d e ll ects and idea a c ea s ric resource answer, I hav b e fa th r o w c o e n d k e ’t hom if I don ! uestions, and q r u o y that likely do e s d m n o c ie fr ro p of sewing whole bunch

Ellen Wigginton

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Wi a

&erry Top

Have you ever wished there were a sweet treat with no calories? Well, here it is!

A yummy little cupcake box perched atop its own gilded tray! Made of everyday simple items, you will want to personalize one for yourself or someone special. If you like to collect papers of all kinds, and you are handy with a hot glue gun, then this project is the perfect morsel for you.

Don’t forget that the top lifts off so you can hide a sweet little something inside!

by Lesa Dailey

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Supp es

D

• 3" Peat pot • Sharp scissors for cutting paper • Decorative edge scissors • Hot glue gun and glue sticks • Mod Podge or watered down white glue • Gesso • 3" Styrofoam ball • Small wood beads (4, each 3/4") • Gold glitter • Red glitter • Foam core board • Tissue paper (2 sheets) • Crepe paper streamer • Heavy gauge wire • Brown florist tape • Scrapbook papers or old book or music pages • Small metal beads from a garland and/or any other little bits and baubles you may find

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Tray Piece 1 Cut two ovals (I used 3 1/2”x 4 1/2”) from foam core, and one the same size from a scrap of decorative paper such as book pages, music, etc. Using hot glue, glue together in a stack, placing printed paper on top.

2 Cut a (1 1/4”x 13”) chipboard strip.

Trim along one length with decorative edge scissors. Coat this piece with a thin layer of Mod Podge, then coat with gold glitter and allow to dry.

3 Hot glue three of the wood beads in a triangular pattern on the bottom of the foam core stack (plain side).

Paint this underneath side, including the beads, with gold paint to cover, and while still damp, sprinkle with gold glitter.

4 Apply hot glue in sections along the edge of the foam core stack, and press on glittered chipboard strip to create sides of tray.

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Cupcake 1 Trim peat pot (1/4") from top to make it even. Coat inside and outside with gesso. Set aside to dry.

2 Cut styrofoam ball in half. Place flat side onto foam core, and trace around it for inside lid piece. Also trace onto chipboard, adding 1/4" all the way around, for outer lid piece. Cut out and use this larger circle as a template to mark two circles onto scrapbook paper.

Cut these out with decorative edge scissors. Place each of these onto the chipboard piece and glue all together.

Also use this piece to cut a circle of tissue paper to cover inside lid piece (foam core). Use hot glue to attach tissue to foam core, then glue to one side of the outer lid piece. I embellished the foam core piece with a little script flower, some small tinsel and a few little metal beads. Hot glue stryrofoam half-ball, flat side down, on the other side of covered chipboard piece.

3 To cover styrofoam half-ball, fold crepe paper streamer accordian style, like making a fan. Starting with one end of the folded crepe, hot glue to the styrofoam, staying 1/4" up from chipboard. Continue all the way around until ball is covered. Note: this will also leave a small circle open at the top of the ball. Make sure to glue down any folds that are sticking up.

4 For the Fluffy Icing, cut 7 strips of crepe paper streamer or tissue paper the same size (2"x 15"), layer these in a stack, and run a small bead of hot glue down the center of each as you glue them together one by one.

Using sharp scissors, make small clips along both sides almost to the glue line in the center. Space clips about 3/16" apart to create fringe. NOTE: you can always buy this fringe ready-made to make it a quicker process. You will also need to cut 7 (2 1/4") circles from the same tissue or crepe. Place a small dot of hot glue in the center of each as you glue the stack together.

Again, clip this stack all the way around and almost to the center. Using a sharp point, poke a small hole thru the center of circle stack to fit cherry stem through.

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5 Paint remaining wood bead red and, while damp, sprinkle with red glitter. Allow to dry. Using florist tape, wind around wire to cover. Curl one end into a circle if desired, and place the other end thru hole in cherry bead. Place fluffy tissue circle stack on wire at base of bead. Apply hot glue on top of cupcake, and push wire thru styrofoam. Run a bead of hot glue next to the flat side of the styro base, and press your tissue fringe along edge for fluffy icing effect.

6 Cut small piece of chipboard (3"x 1/2"). Coat one side with Mod Podge, then sprinkle with gold glitter. Allow to dry, fold in half, glue to cherry stem for flag. Cut a small triangle from end for tail.

7 For the bottom half of the cupcake, cut a (4"x 22") piece of tissue or thin paper. Fold this accordian-style, with approx. 1/2" folds. Hot glue to peat pot, running a bead of glue at the top and bottom in short sections to position paper before the glue dries. Continue all the way around, until covered. Trim paper at the bottom close to the edge of the pot, and trim the top with decorative scissors 1/4" from edge of pot. Fold out away from pot. Cover underside of pot with hot glue and position onto your tray piece, at center back. Run another bead of hot glue around base of pot and position the small metal beads all the way around.

for () em* shme For my little cupcake, I cut a sweet sentiment from a card, but you could make your own from all the wonderful scrapbooking supplies out there! I then added some vintage velvet pieces that I cut from an old hat, two for each side. To give the tag a little more interest, I cut a 2"x10" piece of book print, accordian folded it and glued it to the back in an arch. On each side, I glued two small rhinestones.

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Lesa Dailey

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As a little girl, I wa s always things. F encourag rom clot ed to cre hespin d ries, insp ate o ll s to “inv iration se entive” a emed to for all th ccessobe every ings vint where! W age and things, I ith a love finding c found su haracter ch joy in in -- especia so many bringing lly little my creat characte creating io ns to life rs. From things fo doing ar r Need’l t Lowe De s hows to Love De signs, th signs and ere neve to create B ethany r ceases ! to be an opportun ity In Kansa s City, wh ere I’ve a always th lways live riving an d, it seem d enjoyed thirty yea s art is . I’ve bee rs to my n m a s r w ried for o eet husba been bles ver nd and b sed to ra e s is t e f riend. W our beau and Casa e’ve tiful daug ndra, and hters, Sa are now grandpar m antha on the “c enting to razy cour our amaz most won s e ” of ing little derful so boys. Ad n-in-law, d Tim and in the John, and I always it’s as my say, “The always b h u more the sband een true! merrier!”

It has

Photograph by Julie COllings

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Who doesn’t love cupcakes? They are perfect little party symbols and are so much fun to customize for that special person or occasion.

They bring an instant smile, are just as cute as can be, and seem to carry with them a playful, happy feel. I created this cupcake card with a pocket on the front…just the right size to tuck a gift card inside for the birthday girl, or to hold a note with all of the party details if you choose to use it as an invitation. Oodles of possibilities… character just waiting to be explored. Try one in chocolate brown and robin egg blue for a boy, creamy pink and yellow for the tiny, new cupcake in the family, or fire truck red and black for your Valentine. You can’t make just one…enjoy.

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Supplies • Cardstock: Vintage Cream by Papertrey Ink

• Felt: Vintage Cream by Papertrey Ink

• Stamps: Tag-its #1 by Papertrey Ink

• Button: Vintage Cream by Papertrey Ink

• Die: Cupcake die by Papertrey Ink

• Flags: Happy Go Lucky Toothpick Flags by Pebbles Inc.

• Chipboard: Mini Love Chipboard Set by Maya Road

• Glitter: Lilywhite Sugar Coating by Doodlebug Designs

• Scrunched seam binding: Peony Cabbage Roses Ribbon by memriemare.etsy.com

• Trim: marynotmartha.etsy.com

• Millinery flowers: Thelittlepinkstudio.com

• Crochet flowers: Made by my mom

• Lace • Recycled cardboard 134

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1 Die cut two cupcake shapes, one from cream felt, the second from solid cardstock. Adhere the felt cupcake to the cardstock cupcake to create a sturdy base.

2 Die cut and emboss a “cupcake wrapper� using recycled cardboard that has been stripped down to the core.

3 Paint the embossed cupcake wrapper with antique cream acrylic paint, and let dry. Distress the edges with distress ink.

4 Adhere a strip of white lace or trim to the backside of the wrapper along the upper edge, so that the lace peeks up from behind. Adhere wrapper to the cupcake base, using adhesive along the side and bottom edges, leaving the top open for a gift card, tag, note, etc.

5 Machine-stitch around the edges of the cupcake.

6 Cut a strip of wide floral trim to fit across top area of the cupcake, adhere in place, and trim off excess from the edges.

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7 Adhere three white crocheted flowers at the top of the cupcake, slightly off-center. Embellish the center of each flower with a small aqua millinery flower.

8 Wrap pink scrunched seam binding around the cupcake wrapper and tie in a double bow on the left.

9 Paint a small chipboard heart with antique white acrylic paint, let dry, sand to distress, and coat with glitter. Tie to the center of the bow along with a handstamped tag and button.

10. Insert a pre-made cupcake topper, or create you own using a toothpick and decorative paper.

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Hi everyone! My name is Melissa Ph illips.

I was born and ra ised in American Fork, UT. After gradua ting from Brigham Young University, my hu sband and I mov ed to Southern Nevada where w e currently live w ith little Miss Sierra, our 7-year old daughter. Aft er the birth of Sierra, I wanted to make handmad e Thank You notes to send out and became hook ed immediately on card-making.

It all spiraled from there and has become a wonde rful and rewarding part of my life.

I don’t know wha t I’d do without th is creative outlet. I love crea ti ng s th r in a gs e fo y r other people, orn 4 and I enjoy the pr r was b ause of e h t oc o es r s b of c working with my r e. Be My olde hands to turn ordi before m birthday cely a d na 1 ry paper into somet and our how hing shared heartfelt. My love emember r l that we l o i t s t ar s p e u ca I rd d -m . e ak n ing, mini ebratio elt, as I look d spoil booklets, tags, an f l u d I o on w oc y ca k m si on it all comes mo luc de tumbling out in th much. My our own homema ’d him so e e h W fo t . rm of a layout. I enjo cake us wi y every minute of it both of cker chocolate rk Can, e o an d F d I e lo n l ve a b c to u i share my do er e, creations with ot d up Am nic sit hers. then hea r favorite pic and have

Melissa Phillips

ou r, yon to r dinne nally dig o f d a d meet my esents, and fi Such pr es. a BBQ, day cak h t r i b r into ou ies. l memor u f r e d n wo

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Photograph by Koralee Teichroeb

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Places, Everyone So many details go into planning special gatherings. Why not make the most of your time by creating these beautiful name place holders that also become party favors for your guests? They will not only add vintage charm to your table, but they will be a treasured keepsake for your friends and family to take home with them as a reminder of the sweet occasion!

by Danielle Muller

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Materials: • • •

•

• • • • • •

• •

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Vintage bottle Seam binding or ribbon Vintage sheet music & vintage wallpaper (or decorative paper of choice) Paddle of 20-gauge silver floral wire, or old rusty wire if desired Wire snips Vintage key, or element of choice to hang from bottle Scissors Glue stick Tacky Glue or Hot Glue Vintage lined paper, ledger paper or paper of choice (for name cards) Decorative paper punch or decorative edged scissors Fresh or silk flowers

Instructions 1. Cut a strip of vintage sheet music approximately 2” wide (adjust width to accommodate your particular bottle) and long enough to wrap around the middle of your bottle.

2. Layer a torn piece of vintage wallpaper (or decorative paper of choice) on top of the sheet music strip, making sure it is narrower in width than the sheet music strip. Using a glue stick, adhere the two strips together.

3. Using tacky glue or hot glue gun, adhere the layered strip around the middle of the bottle.

4. Tie on a vintage key (or an element of choice), using seam binding or ribbon.

5. Cut a 25” piece of 20-gauge wire (or old wire if desired), and wrap it tightly around the neck of the bottle several times, twisting in place. Make sure to leave enough wire to form the circle “place holder” portion.

6. Form the circle “holder” portion by coiling the wire several times into a circular shape.

7. Create a name tag for your guest…computer, hand stamped or handwritten. For this project I used the font entitled “Rosewood Std Regular”. Punch out the name tag using a decorative punch of choice (or decorative edged scissors) and place onto the bottle.

8. Place a sprig of fresh baby’s breath or other similar delicate flower into the bottle (or use silk ones).

9. Make sure to let your guests know that they may take their bottle home with them as a party favor!

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Danielle Muller

Danielle Muller is a mixed media/p aper artist who lives in Lon g Island, NY wit h her husband, three children an d two cats. She en joys creating vintage-styled wh imsies using man y of the antique bits and baubles she pick s up during her tag and estate sa le excursions. Her work has been seen in various S tampington publi cations and can also be seen in th e January 2011 is sue of Romantic Homes Magazine. Danie lle shares her passion for photo graphy and living an inspired life on her websi te, The Vintage D ragonfly. Keep up to date on all sorts of things...s wap announcements, workshop s, trunk shows, sh oppe updates and more by visi ting www.thevintaged ragonfly.com

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y

Photograph by Danielle Muller

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M

y mother and I are very close. I am very fortunate because she is a wonderful Grandmother who loves nothing more than spending time with my children. Unfortunately for all of us, we live across the country from each other. So when I send a gift to her I like to put a lot of thought into it.

For her birthday this year, I decided I would make her a few special treats. I wanted to include things that I know that she holds dear to her heart.

My mother has always adored cameos. Working with vintage jewelry allows me to have a lot of odds and ends on hand. After digging around my stash, I thought I would make a pin for my Mother using one of my favorite cameos.

This pin was super easy to create. First I found an object to use for the base of the pin. I chose a beautiful old shell piece that is carved in the shape of a shield. Next, I

used a super strong glue (E6000) to secure a pin onto the back side of the shield. Then I glued a vintage silver metal-thread trim piece onto the front side of the shield piece. Last but not least, the cameo was glued onto the center of the trim piece on the front side of the shield. I wrapped this pin in a very special tattered velvet box that was found at the Paris flea market. The box was topped off by gluing on a small brass piece with the word “Mother” etched onto it.

Another special gift that I gave her was a box full of my kids’ art work. This box was covered in homemade gift wrap made using photographs of my daughters. At Kinko’s, I enlarged my photo collage to 11”x17” so it would be large enough to be used as wrapping paper. After making the copies, I carefully taped them together using masking tape. You could certainly use a a clear tape if you like that look better. To decorate the wrapped box, I tied a ribbon around it and added a vintage millinery flower.

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Below is how three 11� x 17� black & white copies look taped together to create a sheet of special gift wrap.

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t object For Amy Hanna, an ar when becomes extra special ed the elements that are us rk to compose the final wo care are selected with great rity and handled with since y she of the heart. This is wh ing is so particular in search ts to for just the right elemen elry use in her revered art jew r mixed-media works. creations, as well as he at make the final “Special pieces are wh Amy. In her book, work significant,” says uarry Books, “Rejuvenated Jewels” (Q y shines through 2009), Amy's philosoph and inspiration as she offers technique that, indeed, that get readers to know what you get out what you put in affects of a project. and three ornia with her husband lif Ca rn he ut So in es liv Amy blications, peared in numerous pu ap s ha rk wo r He n. re child treats hniques at various art re tec r he t gh tau s ha e sh and rn more, across the nation. To lea pepad.com visit www.amyhanna.ty my of ood h e on ild dy a h d n an y c ca As ge m ’s e. n a d ud r m g g hi fro rme fud e f boxe c Mi s Fa et som nd ox. g t b in orie nny a to ugh hop er’s bon ld up mem Fa o o b s rm ri o om b ew e gr rit ng t y m , I ndy Fa et iful I vo oi m om ca y lv ut fa s g with y m al Fann ve bea r. wa op o m loc ge age a he sh t t our inta vint ded to f gi om a v a d ad t it fr in ped an sen it rap d it and w I oun in ar d p r bi

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a tiny birthday book I have had the papers to make a little birthday book collected and stacked on my desk for a while now. I thought it would be fun to have a little birthday book all ready to mail out to friends and family on their special day.

I have always loved celebrating my birthday. My baby sister Kris was born on my 10th birthday. When I got home from school for my party that day, no one was home! My nice (but scary) next door neighbor came over and said I could sit in her front room until someone came home for me. Mrs. Lewis' front room was not for kids. I sat there without swinging my legs against her orange floral couch for maybe hours. It was definitely a tragedy, but now I have this amazing sister. She is a true kindred spirit and a cunning planner just like myself. It was worth it to miss out on one little birthday so I could share so many other birthdays with her.

by Julie Collings

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Get started by collecting 8 tiny scraps of paper 2 by 3 inches from your stash. I used vintage papers from old ledgers and thrift store notebooks and journals.

The set up for this project is the only tricky part. If you are sloppy with your measuring and cutting, your little book won't fold up and look right. The pages will overlap in the folds and drive you crazy.

Print out the grid for this project (found in the project index at the end of this magazine).

Use this grid to fill the 8 page sections with the readied paper. Carefully cut and glue each page to fit each small rectangle (approximately 2” x 2 5/8”) so the edges are nice and straight. Do not overlap edges. If you work carefully here, you’ll be thankful later.

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Below is my birthday book with the 8 papers in place and the cover decorated. I numbered the pages to show you which way each page should be facing. When you are designing your book, pages 1 and 2 are facing pages, as are 3 and 4, and 5 and 6.

To the right is my book with the pages all decorated. After you decorate all your pages, take it to the copy center to have a color copy made of your book. Ask for it to be copied ‘2 up’’ which means each full page will have two books printed on it.

Trim around your book and fold using instructions found on the next page. I like to use a glue stick to hold the pages together and add a few touches of glass glitter to add some sparkle.

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fold paper in half lengthwise.

trim all around the book.

open paper again and fold outer left and right edges to the center fold

open paper and then fold in half the other way.

cut a slit in the middle of the page as shown.

find the covers and carefully fold pages together to make the book.

Fold the page in half. the slit will allow you to open the book like this. use glue stick to glue end pages together.

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ok from irthday bo b y n ti t was is uch fun! I I made th m o S . s n nI uctio pages whe e th Julie’s instr e iz n a irthday me to org “Happy b : e easier for id u g ay y em as m me true. M o c s e h used a po is w e cake ay all your w. And th fe a to you. M n a th be more your gifts ers !”

--Amy Pow lovely too

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artwork by julie collings, enlarged from her birthday book.

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t bed. Mos in t s a f k e brea s and ys includ a lw a rawberrie t s s n , a io ll it e t d a u s in ay tr ith N ily birthd crepes w of our kid g s o in t k o a h p plete m Our fam tray com ection of I end up ll , y e a o c d im t h t t a e ir e r of th ith a b ch a g in bed w e have su , e W k ! a w m a a e cr just fast. mies, only eir favorite break m ja ir e h t d th whole andles an take the I . s y a d with lit c li ng ter the ho spend the hour lo f a t s ju y Januar City. I lished day is in alt Lake h S t o ir t b e accomp o v y g a h M d I n a t a r h ns, it very yea ar and w resolutio e ’s y r t a s e a Y p day off e e w ok aking Ne king of th tions. I lo lu o s e r drive thin ince everyone is m y a do birthd . S t most to to make n e a w m in my life I r t o f a e wh fect time and decid r a is the per e y w e to the n e. forward en at are min h t s is and th y stores, a in e d g M a e t t h t a in s v h wit ut pcake vorite garita cu headed o r ing my fa e a p b p m o o , t t h s n d a t e so excit ended up e restaur y is spen s a it d a r d n o w a v le I t a o s f r h a a f y too at m ne ye The w m my family. O for lunch ing a little y iv in r m d g h miles fro s in it a k 0 w c w 1 r d n e n e che n a v e in d loud was ome for music on t before I e e k h t ic driving h t d a g h in speed irthday, I issued a d for my b n a r e our v ulled o e....

Matt and m d o n t a y b getting p s a u d h e art my h appy birt , extensiv ains with s t t n n e u o house. H im r M e ocky g exp eautiful R njoy daily cookin b age. e h t f o r the gar oe ase t e b v e e o u h g t in t t in n a k I live we co are ta cles that en. There y r ic d b il h f c o r fou ection gspot.com nd a coll lo s a g , .b s o t in c ll lx o je ir c o g e pr ofblue op/juli ventures y.com/sh d s a t e .e h t w : w g lo :w and my b esty shop Visit my

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I love butterflies and thought this might be a fun way to jazz up a banner for a special day.

I have always made Birthday Banners for my son with his name cut from heavy, colorful paper. We string them above the kitchen table to celebrate the day and load up the table with gifts.

He has saved several and has them hanging in his room (he'll be 16 this year!)

These butterflies are great on their own, but to add a letter to each strand and step it up a notch makes me smile!

ENJOY!

BY JONE HALLMARK

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Jone Hallmark

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essional Hallmark was a prof ne Jo e, tim a on up e Onc search itzerland. After a long ballerina living in Sw ows up, ted to be when she gr an w ly al re e sh t ha w for ake per, glue and string m pa , ire w lt, fe at th d Jone foun She loves imple things” in life. “s e th y pp ha ry ve her d , and mushrooms) an ah ye h (o nd rla de on Alice in W lkadots n to anything with po aw dr is e Sh . es fli on drag the time she can head to xt ne e th to d ar rw fo and looks p with the France for a worksho of rt pa rn te es hw ut so her hubby Santa Fe, NM, with in es liv ne Jo s. et ol Pantry Vi 17 er 8 inches in the last ov ’s at th — ow (w n and her 5’ 7” so ts, Pearl r and Jack, and two ca pe ip K , gs do o Tw ) months! e loves getting tant companions. Sh ns co e ar e, bl ar M d an messes ends and making BIG fri e tiv ea cr r he ith w together ally, any flat e kitchen table— actu th on or io ud st e th in surface will do!

The secret

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Lucille 0ll

Photograph by Koralee Teichroeb

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hip hip hooray!

Is it every child’s dream to break through a paper banner like a football team before the big game? It has certainly always been mine.

When I talked to my now four-year old nephew about what birthday party activities he would like, he asked for something related to trains or football. Seizing the opportunity, I asked him whether he’d like to kick off his party by breaking through a paper banner just like his most favorite football teams on TV. My darling nephew lit up and beamed an enthusiastic, “AWESOME!” and with that, my plan to execute this life-long dream of participating in a paper banner break-through was set in motion.

by Megan Andersen

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You’ll need: • •

• •

• • • • • • •

2 pieces of black ABS Plastic Pipe at least 36-inches high x 1.5-inch diameter 2 wooden garden hoe replacement handles (they should fit within the ABS pipe and are available at most hardware stores for about $10) 2 rolls different colored Duct Tape 1 length of butcher paper long enough to wrap from pole to pole with at least 1-foot extra on each side Rubber mallet Tempera Paint Brushes Markers Balloons and/or Flowers X-Acto Knife An additional set of hands

1 While the kids are painting and decorating the banner, work on setting up the poles that will support it. Start by taking a wooden garden hoe handle and driving the tapered side into the grass, soil, or sand. Using the rubber mallet, pound the wood into the ground until sturdy. Next, take the black plastic ABS pipe (also available at most hardware stores), and slip it over the wooden center.

2 With the rubber mallet, hammer the pipe until it is sturdy, and the wooden center is lower than, or flush with, the black pipe.

Both pieces should feel very firmly planted into the ground. Use the same technique to secure the second wooden stake and plastic pipe in the ground roughly 5 to 6 feet from the first. Once both plastic pipes are in place, use one of the rolls of tape to coil around the plastic pipe in a candystripe manner. Cover any exposed plastic with a second coil of tape in another color.

Repeat candy striping on both pipes.

3 Next, take one side of your decorated paper banner, and wrap it around the first pole. Have a friend hold the paper while you use a long strip of the Duct Tape to attach the extra flap to the back of the banner. Pull the paper taught at the opposite end of the banner and tape that extra flap down as well.

4 You may choose to score the middle of the banner with an X-Acto Knife, especially if the birthday person is too small to breakthrough on her own. Just make small slices like a dotted line down the center.

4 You can place flowers or balloons inside the tops of the candy-striped tubes, to add a decorative and festive touch.

5 Whatever age you are turning this year, you are never too old for the sheer joy of breaking through a paper banner at your very own celebration! the happy birthday issue

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Megan

When Megan A ndersen was laid off from her co agement positio rporate mann in 2010, she forged a new ca blogger and free reer as a craft lance writer. G rowing up in a art was always house where encouraged and new creative te constantly bein chniques were g developed, M eg an’s swapping h for a non-stick er suit jacket smock came as no surprise to th knew her well. e people who Megan contribu tes original con tent to her craf cooking and ph t, gardening, otography blog, "radmegan: in w tures" almost d ords & picaily. She has wri tten for national Andersen such as BUST, magazines and Bitch, has been featured in blogs and websi many craft tes, and teaches monthly craft cl Urban Craft Cen asses at the ter in Santa Mo nica, CA. She is working on a vi currently deo-based "boo graphing handm k" on the topic ade crafts, due o f phototo be published later this year.

Megan lives in Los Angeles wit h her husband plants. Her birth and over 500 ca day is May 15th rnivorous and every year, remember, she for as long as sh has wanted to b e can reak through an on her birthday oversized paper . During the pre b anner p ar able to live out ation of this arti her on-going bir cle, she was thday wish. She pictured above is with her favori te gift from last ye ar’s birthday: p en blanks she turn ed on the lathe in her worksho p. And pictured below on her 5 th birthday wit h two of her favo rite foods: cake and nachos.

www.radme gan.com radmegan.bl ogspot.com

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mini project

The wedding aisle of the craft store is a great place to find unique gift packaging like these “green� alternatives to favor boxes.

Perfect for favors, yes. But they also make fabulous gift packaging for small gifts & swaps!

--Amy Powers

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H

a per

Crown Crowning a girl always makes her feel special, even more so when it’s her birthday. Here’s a quick and easy “Birthday Girl” crown project. When I make birthday crowns, I try to use whatever I have on hand, so you won’t need to go out and buy anything for this project.

by Heidi Woodruff

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Instructions: 1 Print out the two pages in the Appendix. Cut out the patterns A and B on the “Birthday Girl Crown Pattern”. Cut out the desired birthday banner, such as “Birthday Girl”.

2 Tape the A and B patterns together at the center. Use this complete pattern to trace the crown on your chosen paper.

Cut two complete crowns. Glue the front to the back (backsides glued together), so that the backside also shows a “good side”. I used Aleene’s Original Tacky Glue for everything I did on the crown. But I also use double-sided sticky tape (Duck brand) when I’m in a hurry; it works well and is quicker. I used vintage wall paper. I buy rolls of vintage (or even contemporary) wallpaper at a local hospice thrift store for twenty-five to fifty cents a roll. True antique wallpaper is usually too brittle. If you use wall paper, you will find the width of many rolls of wallpaper is about 21 inches, exactly the width of my crown pattern! If I use the same paper for both the front and inside, I usually draw out the pattern bottom side to bottom side, then cut out one double crown, then fold it over and glue (or tape) it together. You can use the same paper for the front and back, or use contrasting patterns. The thicker the paper, the sturdier the crown. If I use thin paper, I often cut a thick card stock middle layer for strength. Another idea is to use birthday wrapping paper, maybe matching paper to the gift you are giving.

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3 On your crown, mark the two back ends with the six dots shown on the pattern. Punch the 6 holes. This will be where you will lace up the back, which gives the crown a custom fit for the recipient. If you have a Crop-A-Dile, set eyelets in the six holes (three on each side). It is easier to decorate the crown as it lies flat, so don’t add ribbon on the back until the crown is completely decorated. When you lace it up, add a ribbon (or two or three) and, starting at the bottom hole, lace up the back like lacing up your running shoes.

You can use as long a length of ribbon as you’d like, tying a pretty bow and trimming as desired. I like to use seam binding, as it’s always softer to work with.

4 Now it’s time for the fun part—decorating the crown!

I’ve added gathered ruffled crepe paper, in several layers, to the top, gluing it on the inside top. You could also place the gathered crepe paper on the front. You can machine-sew a line down the center of the crepe paper strip and pull the thread to make your own ruffled crepe trim. Double or even triple the crepe colors for more color. Or search for the finished ruffle crepe trim on Etsy. Some of what I used came from the Etsy seller, “Birds of a Feather”.

5 Use the desired banner, such as “Birthday Girl”, centering and gluing it where you want it placed. If you need a larger or smaller banner, just photo copy and enlarge or reduce the banner size. You can outline the banner greeting with glue and glitter, distress the edges with Vintage Distress ink, paint it (let dry completely before gluing on), or use markers.

6

Set out a variety of embellishments. Select the pieces you want on your crown and begin gluing on the layers of embellishments. I glued on sequins and miniature pearls, silver sewing trim, and beaded trim. I used a piece of vintage jewelry for the top, adding the music score and small printed out “Happy Birthday” greeting.

6 Decorate the inside of the crown, too, if you want. You can cut out the final Banner Greeting, “We are all the same age inside”, to glue on the inside. Finish up with lacing the back. I used seam binding, about 36 inches long, for my laces. Double or triple up the tie, use lace, ribbon or whatever you have in your supplies.

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Em* shme I as 1 Some more ideas for decorating might be flowers (fabric, paper, silk, etc), vintage jewelry, sequins, glitters, rhinestones, pearls, pearl beading trim. Try music score, painting, vintage birthday cards, decoupage layers, water-slide pictures. Use rick-rack, various sewing trims, lace, tulle, feathers, birds, butterflies, stars, hearts, streamers, “wish� tickets, Add party pieces, real birthday candles, bits and pieces of any project you are working on, coordinating paper or items from a gift to be given, colored staples, miniature balloons, vintage game pieces (such as the age/number of the birthday girl), “Cricut� or “Silhouette� cut shapes (birthday cakes, cupcakes, balloons, etc.), chipboard letters, and so much more. Use any art media of your choice. (A special note about any glitter you use: Do not use German glass glitter as it could damage the eyes if any falls off.)

2 The pattern could also be cut and sewn using fabric. Just add a third inside layer of interfacing to keep it stiff. Or use felt or wool, with hand-stitched designs and wording. Use any art media of your choice. You can sew or glue so many things onto the crowns, be creative as possible, keeping the Birthday Girl and her interests in mind!

A note about the size of the crown pattern: If this is for a child, just cut the ends back ½ on each side.

Then loosen or tighten as needed with the “laces�. If you plan to make these often, you can cut out a master pattern from heavy cardstock or cardboard. This is what I use, so that at any time I can quickly and easily trace out the pattern.

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Heidi Woodruff

www.everyday-cookies.blogspot.com

she crafter. If y a d y r e v e she druff is an every day, o d o n a W i h c id a e e H ing craftate someth eidi enjoys H y. a d doesn’t cre ll uff put in a fu eet Woodr y w ll S a “ e s r ll ’t a n c s ha h she r ome, whic ackdrop fo ing at her h es her home as her b two d us When her . ts c je Acres”, an o r ssp up a succe ns of craft d o te ti r ia r ta s a v i ll id a , He o she very young sale) just s le o h w r e girls were b m years usiness (lu . Now 21 m e th ful home b h it has w at home Heidi even d n a , d could stay ie r ar home, girls are m orks from w ll ti later, both s i id the other in dren. He 3 grandchil foot in her office and f husband o e r n e o h h , k it r w a now and M gon om! Heidi estern Ore o r w th ft a u r o c s r e e h on th run years, live eidi how to H t h g u almost 30 ta she o h is where s Mark wh a ic h w w It , p t. s o a h co his s ts. er tools in ns she pain ig s e th r all the pow e fo y”…just on ood blanks a w d y e r e th v s e e k ie ma a cook , treat s to “have at a cookie e ’t n a c u Heidi love o if y eed. And, is all you n good! something to lf e s r u o y

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a

Pocketful

of

Wishes

Cards filled with sweet wishes are such a meaningful part of a Birthday celebration. I created this birthday card holder for two reasons. First, because I think it is great to have a pretty place to put all of the cards at a Birthday party. Second, I don’t know about you, but after my birthday I am always looking for a place to keep all of my cards. Hang one of these pockets on the back of the birthday girl’s chair or display one above the gift table at the party.

After the party, the birthday girl can take it home and use it to keep and display mementos (candles, tickets, napkins, photos, etc.) and, of course, cards from the memorable day! This beautiful and functional project is made from the humblest of supplies: a cereal box, crepe paper party streamers and scraps from your ribbon and paper stash. Now go start digging in your craft closet and your pantry and have fun creating!

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Materials • • • • • • • • • •

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cereal box ruler scissors decorative paper crepe paper fringe (or other decorative trim) ribbon hot glue or tacky glue glue stick hole punch items for embellishing (flowers, butterflies, letters, lace, glitter, etc.)

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Instructions 1 First, carefully open the cereal box along the seams where it has been glued together, keeping all of the tabs intact.

Lay the box out flat.

2 Measure and mark 5 inches up from the bottom seam of the box. Use a straight edge to draw a line connecting your marks across the entire box. Cut along the line.

3 Reassemble the bottom portion of the box. Use a hot glue gun or tacky glue along the original tabs.

4 Measure and cut decorative paper to cover the outside of the box and to line the inside. I used a contrasting paper to line the pocket for a fun surprise. Tips: Don’t forget to cut a piece to cover the bottom of the box. Use adhesive strips or a glue stick to adhere the paper to the box so that the paper won’t bubble up.

5 Use a hole punch to punch holes in both small sides of the pocket. Punch the holes about 1 inch from the top edge of the pocket.

6 Now comes my favorite part…embellishing! Make (or purchase) crepe paper fringe and use hot glue or tacky glue to adhere it to the top edge of the card holder. See my crepe paper fringe tutorial on page 20. You could also use lace, ribbon or ruffles to embellish the edge of the pocket.

7 Use coordinating papers, tags, lace, stickers, flowers, butterflies or ribbon to dress up your holder. Add the word “wishes” spelled out in chipboard letters, stamps, stickers or your own handwriting.

8 Finally, thread a length of ribbon through the punched holes (choose a length that will function best for you).

Thread the ribbon from the inside out and tie a knot on the outside of the pocket to keep the ribbon in place. I tied ric rac, vintage seam binding, and patterned ribbon to the top of the hanger. You can also add a rose or butterfly at the top for extra whimsy.

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Molly Knox

My fondest birthd ay memory is of my daughter Lilly’ s 1st birthday party. I loved ever y moment of it from the planning , to the creating, to the celebrating.

I decorated the table, chandelier, and Lilly’s high chair in pink pape r roses, polka dot bows an d pink party streamers.

The favors were hand made pink chocolate lo llipops.

Her daddy and I gave her a single pink rose to commemorate her firs t sweet year of life. Celeb rating Lilly’s big day wit h family and friends is a day I’ll never forget!

opologie” taste on a Molly Knox has always had “Anthr she found ways to use “Target” budget. From an early age what she imagined. whatever she had around to create ents often took her along When she was a little girl, her par rkets and garage sales. on trips to antique stores, flea ma gs old and inspired her They fostered in her a love of all thin a small budget. to create beautiful surroundings on pretty objects she finds Today, she loves transforming not-sostores or even in her own at thrift stores, yard sales, discount d pack rat, a trait that has “junk” stash (she is a self- proclaime generations) into something been passed down in her family for t there isn’t much a little special and inspiring. She believes tha prides herself on turning paint, glitter, or fabric can’t fix. She family and friends often the simple into the sublime, and her nothing”. tell her she can make “something from a native, living in Tampa Molly is a fourth-generation Florid Lilly and their West with her husband Doug, daughter ches pre-school partHighland Terrier Ellie Belle. She tea silly, teaching crafts, and time where she has a blast acting off days she is a staywatching her students grow. On her reading and crafting with at-home mom who loves playing, crafts and décor. Molly Lilly and creating vintage-inspired if she hasn’t created or finds that her day is not complete more about Molly and dreamed of creating. You can read logspot.com her crafty life on her blog lillycakes.b

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My fir st

birthd

ay

Why not start a collection of vintage birthday decorations? Search etsy and ebay, as well as flea markets and antique malls, for vintage birthday candles, party hats, party games, etc. These pieces are from my friend Lorraine Rose’s collection.

--Amy Powers

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that

Cake I love birthdays because there is usually cake involved. This cake was constructed using one of my Sizzix® ScoreBoard™ dies and has an unusually high fiber content—it is made from matboard! I covered it with a cheerful seersucker fabric found in Hobby Lobby. Inside is a necklace I made for my friend’s birthday.

Aren’t the colors delicious? The seersucker gives some cool texture and dimension.

I am always on the lookout for vintage sewing supplies and made the flowers using zippers I found at the thrift shop for five or ten cents a piece. This cake is FULL of my favorite things!

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to make this project, you will need : • • • • • • • • • •

Sizzix Big Shot die cut machine Sizzix ScoreBoard Cake die (by me!)

2 pieces of 6” x 13” matboard (I used pink) 2 pieces of 6” x 13” fabric to cover matboard Spray adhesive White artist tape 4” white paper doily Trims (zippers, mini rickrack, pearls) Thermoweb 3D glue dots Zip Dry Paper Glue by Beacon

for the necklace: • • • • •

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Green rattail cording- 24” Katiedids Creative Components Head pin Tulip Crystals ¼” hole punch

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instructions: 1 Cover wrong side of matboard with spray adhesive and add fabric, smoothing out air bubbles as you apply. Run matboard through Big Shot with fabric side facing die—this will be the scored side of the project. Cut out three cake sections in order to make sides of cake, and cut two scalloped cake tops and two small circle pieces with tabs.

2 Take each of the three scored side pieces and form into curved sections.

3 Assemble cake by taping all three scored sides together and bend into a cylinder. Take smaller circle piece with tabs (I usually cut the tabs off) and ease down into center of cake. This forms the top of the cake.

4 Glue green zipper around top edge of cake. Add green rattail, mini rickrack and pink flower trim as “faux frosting”.Make some rolled zipper flowers by winding zippers in a spiral and securing the base with a 3D glue dot.

Glue pearl centers in some of the zipper flowers and fold up green rickrack for leaves.

5 Cut solid paper center from doily. Accordian fold the outer doily circle and wrap around the base of the zipper flower cluster. Adhere to top of cake with glue dots.

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to make the necklace: I am not really into beading so I was happy to find these fun Creative Components. They are so easy to use, even for a beginner. All you have to do is fill the little channel up with your favorite beads or crystals and glue them in. Attach a chain or cord and you have a necklace. Added bonus—it looks like you slaved for hours making it.

1 Cut a 24” piece of green rattail cord for necklace (it will go over your head).

2 Add headpin to top of the circle Creative Component. Fill inside the circle with turquoise crystals and glue in place.

3 Create a loop from the head pin to hold the cording of the necklace. Thread cording through loop. Center pendant and make two knots in cording to keep in place. Knot both ends together for closure.

4 Place necklace on round matboard piece and cut off tabs. Punch 2 holes and slits for cording to slip in.

6 Place the cake section on top of the necklace piece (you may have to jiggle this a little to make it fit—it’s tight). Layer the two scalloped pieces on as a base.

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s always ere there wa encourh w y il m fa e g was up in a larg tive thinkin a re C .

Eileen grew s rk o ally grateful! the w rn in te e t c is je e ro h s p r that an art g age and fo n u o y a t a d ork age or whose w th u a d n a t ia artis s, shops a multi-med s, magazine is k o ll o u b H , s n e re as e Eil in chain sto e described d b re y a tu a m fe le n ty e s has be Eileen design ternet. Her ch of glitter. rd u in to e t th h g n li o a d an with amboa phisticated agic and Fo M rd a o tb clean and so a M two books, 8. has written in ased 200 le re th o b , Magic primary ns, Eileen’s ig s e d l a n of io ovative line ree dimens n th in in n a g d in e z p li Specia e develo cut and atboard. Sh designed to m re is a s m ie iu d d e m ard™ er fifth ix. ScoreBo and totes. H rs e ld fo , dies for Sizz s e r ’11. x ard into bo HA Summe o C tb t a a m d e s re a o c le s e re f dies will b collection o vorite ne of her fa o is rb u c d e res from th children, an u r s u a e fo tr r e g h in f u o Resc ismay less uch to the d g items that m in , s s o ie rp it u v ti -p ac re a posts innov hallenge of y c rl e la th u g s e re v n g lo she t toss. Eilee ts on craftin h h ig ig s m s in rt d o n s a overs creative cycled make re , ts c je ro p tive One of my most touchi er blog: ng birthday memo. m o trends on h c t. o p s g ries occurred a few year ll.blo u h n e e il s ago. My son was .e w ww deployed, and I was sta nding in the cookie aisle of the grocery sto re trying to figure out how to fashion a birth day cake that would survive the trip to Iraq and heat there in August. A woman cam e down the aisle next to me with her five-year -old son. I overheard her tell him he could pi ck a bag of whatever kind of cookies he want ed. The kid was beside himself. He rem inded me of Chris as a little guy. We starte d laughing, and I wound up sharing my dilemma with her. I finally decided that anim al crackers and a can of frosting would be the best bet for a makeshift cake. I cont inued shopping and, as I was paying, sh e came running over with a shopping ba g full of animal crackers and said, “Plea se send this to your son and tell him “H appy birthday and thank you for your service!” I was so surprised and touche d. It still bring tears to my eyes when I remember it.

Eileen Hull

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Nothing in the world is more luscious to me than the creamy florettes of roses on a ravishing birthday cake.

I eye them longingly in bakery windows, I swoon over them at birthday parties, and hope, just hope, that when the cake is cut, I will be given a piece that has a flower on it. While others might be entranced by the brush strokes of an Impressionist painting (well, I do that, too), my particular rapture is admiring the peaks and swirls of icing and the leaves and petals of flowers created by a cake baker. So you can imagine my delight when a Smithsonian course catalogue arrived in the mail one day. Tucked in amongst the classes like “Lewis and Clark - Mapping their Expedition” and “Stephen Ambrose Discusses Victory in Europe in 1945” was one for me that was definitely "la pièce de la résistance"! There was a class in Cake Decorating – taught by the most celebrated baker in New York City, one who is world-famous for her lavish and naturalistic displays of flowers formed in icing.

by Lorraine Rose

illustrated by Kassie Schwan the happy birthday issue

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be serious. Did she really imagine that her students would run out and buy pans shaped like shoes, tubes to dispense icing shaped like shoelaces, and then actually serve such an assemblage to their guests?

My mind traveled back to 20 years earlier when my friend Peggy and I had experienced a similarly excited reaction when discovering a cake-decorating class offered in a D.C. suburb. Peggy is an accomplished baker, so she was mostly taking this class to indulge me in my endless search for the perfect decorated cake. But we both knew we were bound to have fun. Together, we had ventured out to the Virginia suburbs to the teacher's twostory red-brick 1950’s house – with its very own cake decorating studio. There were about twenty women in the class, all donning aprons and looking quite purposeful.

At the beginning of each class, our teacher would present the evening’s decorating project – a cake baked and decorated earlier in the day which we were to copy. It’s hard to forget the memory of the very first class when she entered her kitchen to retrieve our first assignment. She returned to the studio carrying a rectangular plate and, to our enormous surprise, she proudly presented a cake decorated like a dirty tennis shoe. Peggy and I tried hard not to make eye contact, because we knew, if we were to do so, that we would erupt into naughty pre-adolescent giggles. Surely this woman could not

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The second week we learned how to make a fire engine and a VW beetle, and again Peggy and I tried hard to politely suppress our laughter. All around us, though, the other women worked seriously, dyeing the icing a bright unappetizing red and coloring the hook and ladder the colors of wood and metal. The only thing less appetizing than the colors was the icing ingredient - solid, outof-the-can Crisco lard, sweetened with sugar, reminiscent of the goo that is used to lubricate engines. Our teacher explained that, for her purposes, there was nothing preferable to Crisco when one wanted to form shapes like shoes and vehicle tires.

However, our good behavior did not last through the third class. On this night, our assignment was to make a cake resembling a huge hamburger, replete with all the necessary condiments, like ketchup, mustard and relish oozing out between the meat patties.

As our teacher ceremoniously carried out the platter, we broke out into uncontrollable, disruptive laughter. Our teacher, shocked, summoned us to her kitchen, pointed her spatula at us, and asked us to leave her class...permanently. Ashamed and embarrassed, we gathered up our utensils and left our cake-decorating careers behind us.

So, here I was two decades and many children’s birthday cakes later – and still every bit as tempted to try my hand at creating THE beautiful birthday cake. I immediately called Peggy and tantalized her with this new class offering. She eagerly agreed to try it again but unfortunately, the Smithsonian

when I noticed every other woman had a recipe notebook in front of her, pencil expectantly ready and poised beside an empty page. All hair was pulled neatly back, sleeves were rolled up, and my friendly and hopeful smiles were met with serious looks. By the time the class began, I had already discovered I was the only person there who was not a caterer or a fancy pastry chef. When I was asked why I was there, the only response I could muster was, “Oh, I just love cake”.

A couple of minutes later there was a bustle at the doorway, and a small, active woman burst into the room carrying armloads of packages.

Behind her were two Smithsonian staff members rolling a cart with a flotilla of supplies and a refrigerated container filled with sweet

“Oh, I just love cake!” only had one place left in the class. Would I be too nervous to venture out alone? As much as I hoped to learn how to perfect 'the art of the rose petal', my true reward was described in the course catalogue: fifteen minutes before the end of the class, we were to partake in the 'eating of our masterpiece'! I was already imagining that I would be the lucky recipient of a particularly large slice, exquisitely covered with a multitude of sugar flowers, laden heavily with the perfect buttercream icing. I mailed in my check.

When I entered classroom 003 in the S. Dillon Ripley center, I looked for a kindred spirit, someone amateur like myself who was also more interested in enjoying the finished product than mastering the technique.

I knew immediately I was alone, however,

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creamy butter. Our teacher had just arrived off the New York shuttle, overladen with packets of food coloring powders, boxes of assorted confectionary sugars, pastry bags, pastry tips, and boxes and boxes of previously made floral masterpieces wrapped meticulously in Tupperware containers. She may have been in her seventies, but she was as spry and energetic as a kindergartner let loose to play on a fantastic playground.

She began by showing us a PBS documentary of her studio - set to the music of the Flight of the Bumble Bee - which illustrated the great precision and speed at which she and her staff created their

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elaborate dessert masterpieces. Despite all this rapid commotion, we learned the average wedding cake took 2 weeks to bake and decorate properly. The reason for this was the time it takes to make a single flower. Before being a baker, our teacher had been a botanist and had studied the genus of every flower, its biology, the leaf structure, and the exact number of petals per stem, per flower.

There was an exact science to be learned and then replicated into sugar form. This was to be our first introduction to an art form that had taken years and years to perfect. The film went on to tell us that she had made the wedding cakes at the biggest Manhattan weddings of the last 30 years at astonishing

prices. We learned that she had often flown first class to Europe and the Middle East, with her and her cake layers occupying a full row, to deliver and assemble special wedding cakes for sultans and princesses. Although awed by the magnificent and elaborate decorations, I was mostly paying attention to that wonderful piece of knowledge I possessed - I would soon be admiring our very own creation and then feasting on the creamy, sugary, flowery cake myself.

But first, we had to make our flowery confections. Sylvia distributed mounds of butter cream frosting to each of us, which we were to divide into little peaks for each color we desired. She explained to us that professional cake decorators would never think of using food coloring. The ordinary red, blue, green and yellow plastic containers sold at the grocery store were colors that did not actually exist in nature. We would be mixing, like Impressionist painters, a dazzling palette of pastel colors, as well as deeper hues for leaves and brighter flowers, such as deep red roses or purpler pansies. Her process was so delicate and so exacting that it took five days in her bakery to create a single rose. Each layer of petals must be attached to the stem and left to dry thoroughly in a cool room overnight before the next layer could be added. So, for our purposes, we would be creating only sweetheart roses, tiny, delicate and barely opened. Then our teacher laid out for us an ornate display of lilies of the valley, calla lilies, pansies, peonies, deiphiniums, gardenias and freesia, each blossom looking astonishingly natural - we were reminded she was an artist and botanist first, and then a baker and businesswoman. She explained that we would be making a variety of flowers, half of which would go into a bouquet for us to take home, the other half to be used for decorating our own class cake masterpiece.

I imagined that forming these little clusters

of flowers would be much like forming little flowers in Play Doh, which I remembered being fairly facile at in nursery school. However, when I began to form petals, they all collapsed in my hands, leaving me at first indignant and then enormously frustrated. Working fastidiously beside me sat these capable bakers, appearing not to have the slightest problem with their flower formations. Their blossoms multiplied, while I was still trying to attach my first inner rose petal to my first awkward and limp-looking stem.

My flowers never bloomed. There I sat with a myriad of colorful little gobs of icing, eagerly waiting their appointed position in my garden. Yet each clumsy attempt at creation left merely clumps and wet goo. “Oh, what a pretty little rosebud,” I would say to myself, encouragingly. Then, “Oops! Can someone help me put that back on?” Ultimately my fellow decorators turned away in embarrassment as I sat there with a single flowerless stem.

Finally, our teacher announced we were now ready to bring in the cake that we would be decorating. Because we had no oven, a large cake had been ordered from a fine bakery on Capitol Hill. The instructions had been given that it be merely iced smoothly all-white, which we would then use as our blank canvas. I was so excited as the cake was wheeled in on a tea cart, sitting in an expensive-looking box tied with a crisp ribbon. We gathered together all of our flowers, and my stem, and approached the cart for the unveiling. As I looked around me and saw my classmates' spectacular abundance of fresh-looking, edible flowers, I felt the familiar pleasure I feel when I'm about to be served something sweet. Memories of childhood birthday parties filled me with happy expectation. My reward was coming!

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Another assistant rolled in a cart with a silver pot of coffee, real china teacups, and a silver pitcher of cream. We were going to have a real party!

Our teacher took a little knife and snipped the ribbon and lifted up the lid of the box.

In one quick moment, her expression went from an enraptured smile to tight, pursed lips.

Grim displeasure showed as she spoke. “Well, we won’t be eating THIS cake!”

Before I could censor myself, I blurted out a whiny, “Why not’?”

“Because they have used Crisco. I would never eat Crisco. And neither will you.”

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She went on to say we would be decorating the cake, nonetheless. Masking the hugest disappointment, I would like to think that I still appeared grown-up as I obediently helped to place flowers on the large white inedible cake.

Using a canvas pastry bag, I even tried to squirt out a pink curlicue with decorative flair. But a few minutes later, as others tied together their own, lovely, personal bouquets and said their goodbyes to one another, I quietly tiptoed out, my unadorned, sad solitary stem in hand, feeling like a disappointed child leaving a birthday party without a goody bag.

Desperate times call for desperate measures.

Before I even reached the sidewalk, I had pulled out my phone and called Peggy. “I’m not going to sugarcoat it. I need a pretty piece of cake desperately. Meet me at Patisserie Poupon in thirty! My treat.”

hello!

hi

Lorraine Rose & Kassie Schwan

Kassie loves to draw comics , lives in Broo klyn, & works on her blog, thecluelessgar dener. blogspot.com

, artist e b d oul pes is a w e n envelo i a e r t a r Lor o dec ngs! ves to o l to thi o h s w e h s ri a d flou she is e m i and ad es t who se of the t s t i s p e a r ther The m. psycho g n ng roo i i c v i i t l c a pr pink n her i s t n clie

My old er bro th at my 5th bi er, rth party, opened day my pre up all se my gue nts while st outsid s and I were e play in party games. g (s highly contes till ted) This s am is now e brother m Kassie arried to .

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chubby cakes Hey, what could be better then a guilt-free cupcake?! I like to bake giant cupcakes for my family and friends and wanted to send one of my chubby cupcakes to my niece, who is away at college, for her birthday.

But I knew it would be in pieces by the time it arrived. So, instead, I came up with the idea of a birthday chubby ATB! Artist Trading Blocks (ATBs) are the same size (2.5" x 3.5") as an Artist Trading Card (ATC) except that they are thicker—1/2" or more—and made of wood. The fun thing about ATBs is that you have not 1, not 2, but 4 sides for you to art up and decorate to the top! You can paint, paper and nail into them, add feet, finials, flowers and more, so the creative possibilities are endless! I made these art cupcakes with birthday-cake candleholders so that the birthday girl can make a birthday wish!

by Aileen Roberts

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Supplies • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Wooden artist trading block (www.outsidethemargins.com) Wood components Color mists sprayable watercolors (www.outsidethemargins.com) PYM II acrylic sealer (www.precision-blue.com/) White gesso Acrylic paint Water soluble oil pastels (www.portfolioseries.com) Rhinestones Standard size hole punch Scrapbook paper Paper flowers Birthday candles and candle holders Painted wood bead Ribbon or ric rack Heat gun Multi-surface adhesive

1 Sand your block. Add feet or a stand to the block, if desired (Feet suggestions- game pieces, wood blocks, upholstery tacks, toy car wheels...check the wood section at your local craft store for more ideas). Next paint the entire block with gesso (I prefer gesso because it has a tooth to it that will accept the paints more readily). Allow it to dry completely.

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2 Spray the Color Mists, applying the colors from light to dark. Allow the colors to drip and run by tilting and turning the block while you dry with a heat gun. Repeat this step until you've achieved the color pattern you’re happy with. Be careful not to over-spray or you may end up with a muddy look. Sprayable watercolors are water soluble, so if you don't like what you've done, just resaturate and spray again.

3 Once you've achieved the look you want and your block is dry, seal the block with a spray sealer. I prefer PYMII, an acrylic sealer that dries very FAST and leaves your piece the same finish as you started with.

4 You can create the cupcake several ways: by drawing your design on paper and cutting it out and then gluing it onto the block, or by sketching a simple cupcake outline and then using paints to fill it in. I chose to sketch with a pencil and paint directly onto my block using acrylic paints. I painted the base of the cupcake first and then, while the paint was still wet, I drew lines through the paint with a pencil tip to create the cupcake ridges in the base of the cupcake.

5 I outlined and filled in the top of the cupcake first with white paint. Next, I really loaded the brush with more white paint and dabbed it on, giving it a thick swirly textured look. Before your white paint has dried, lightly sprinkle extra fine iridescent glitter over the wet paint, shaking off the excess, and allow to dry.

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6 To decorate the cupcake, I used rhinestones. You could punch holes with a regularsized hole punch from colored scrap paper and adhere them to the frosted top of the cupcake, using a clear laminate adhesive (I use Diamond Glaze or 3D Crystal Lacquer). Once they dry in place, add a dab of the same laminate adhesive to the top of each dot to give it dimension. Embellish the top part of the cupcake base by adhering ribbon or ric rack, using more clear adhesive or two-way sticky tape.

7 Once my cupcake is dry, I outlined and added some shading using a water-soluble oil pastel, rubbing and blending it in to give the cupcake some depth. Next, lightly draw a line over the ridges in the cupcake base that you created earlier in the wet paint and blend to give it further depth. I will also go around the sharp edges of the block and base with the water- soluble pastel, helping to accentuate it further. (Don’t worry if you get too much on.

Simply use a baby wipe to remove.)

8 Paint a cherry on top, or add a wood bead that has been cut in half and painted.

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9 Think about the birthday message and elements to add to the other three sides. You can use rub-ons lettering, paint pens, acrylic paint, paper or cardboard words and even metal numbers. You can further embellish your block by painting balloons, flowers, adding rhinestones and even shapes made out of paper clay.

10 Add the candle & holder to the top. Check the dollar store for plastic birthday candle holders. Drill a hole big enough to insert the pick of the candle holder. Choose complimentry colored paper flowers and insert the pick through the paper flowers. Secure in place with adhesive to the back of the flowers and the base of the pick, and insert it into the hole you've drilled. Allow it to dry.

11 Seal your entire block once again and allow to dry. Then add your candle to the top and your guilt-free cupcake is ready to light up!

I’m currently participating in a Chubby Birthday Block Round Robin where we each start off painting one block of our own.

Then it’s passed on to the next person to add something to the block. Each person will continue to add to our birthday block, until, when its done, it will arrive back in time for us to celebrate our own birthday. How fun is that!

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Ailee nR sion s oberts is a pec mix found ialist; recy ed-media cl artist objec & rep ts and ing, alteri n osses g v a & r in tak ious m c r e a t ing w ing th e d i u m ith e ord s. She some inary thing fi nds jo and t uniqu art ru y u r n e i ng it and e ns the i xtrao nto spect paint rdina r i n p u g a m p & r er art well-k y from assem s. Ail draw . Her nown b l a e i g n en ha e art maga work s bee to jew g, shops zines n . elry a and b publi n ooks shed and e in sev d Altho njoys e ug teach ral moth h Aileen g i ng er re teach who was b w up surr o er an d two oth an art unded by until ist a art w sist sh ith a creati e was a yo ers who w nd high sc ung a ere b h ve sp ool ar o iri dult t with t hat sh th artists, budd t. She has i e t i a n w r g arti ative sts to special fon eally found asn’t spirit d h and b her be ar elieve elp them fi ness for w tistic. or s that n They creati every d their ow king just s ve do one h omet n cre or. called imes as the Outsi Aileen als need a b i o run l deTh i help ty to s eMar gins.c an online opening th om eir busin ess ated on I collabor d n a s d n rt frie en an group of a a , s r a r I was giv e a y e l y a e r n e v O e . s For other wn upside-do ts for each n if a g y m a o r d f h birt ed made n and help que Angel o n u d J e g k r in o z w ama ach and y friends e l speaker, a m t e t a m h t a r is a guit the e angel base of th opper, and c e h d e T s ! s e o t b a cre as caroler de from em m t a is m r e h r C a s dren's ces. the wing red art pie intage chil u v s a a e r m t o t r s f o my m head was l is one of il t s t I . in mannequ

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Junque Angel created by Kris Henderson and Bev Martini

mini project

Start with a fresh new pair of plain white espadrilles as the canvas for a wearable art gift for the birthday girl...or yourself! Doodle the design on one shoe with a pencil. Mirror the design on the other shoe. Then use a selection of colored Sharpie markers to color in the design. The fun part is adding stitches, beads, and sequins to fill in the design. Use a strong narrow needle and wax your thread for best results. Before you know it, you’ll have a pair of beautiful shoes made especially for the birthday girl.

-- Amy Powers

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i

Pmarker arty Where's the party? You don’t want your guests to have to guess! Hang this birthday banner, made to fit in a garden flag holder, out front and they’ll know they’re in for a fun time. Don’t let the rain spoil your party...or your flag! It’s made from oilcloth so it’s perfectly fine for outdoor use in any weather.

w Marlene Haveron

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Supp es •

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 piece (15” wide x 48” long) oil cloth (or a vinyl/plastic material suitable to hang outside) 2 sheets (8 1/2 x 11”) gold self-stick glitter paper 1 sheet (8 1/2 x 11”) silver self-stick glitter paper 2 pkgs of self-stick alphabet & numbers 1 roll of small width ribbon 12 inches of medium width ribbon Button maker kit Assorted flowers & floral pics & bees Pin for back of "birthday girl" ribbon Small piece of paper or fabric for button Clear packing tape Fabric tac glue Hole punch Scissors

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Let's have some fun!

1 Cut a 15-inch-wide by 48-inch-long piece of oilcloth.

Fold cloth in half to 15� x 24� and, with a towel over the oilcloth, press along the fold to crease. Open cloth with wrong side of cloth facing up. Measure two inches from fold on both sides of fold, and draw a line down the two-inch mark on each side. Along one drawn line, squeeze a small amount of fabric tac glue, then fold the cloth back together, matching the two lines (this space between the fold and line is the space where the garden flag holder will go). Once that glue dries, punch a series of holes along the side, about an inch in and at every two inches. (You should have a total of ten holes when you’re done.) Repeat on the other side. Thread narrow ribbon through these holes, leaving some ribbon hanging. Tie knots at the last and first holes to hold the ribbon in place.

2 Trace trophy shapes out on gold glitter paper. I cut the cup, base, and handles separately (see photo). Peel the self-stick glitter paper and place onto the cloth slowly, being careful to properly align the trophy. Arrange the self-stick letters over the trophy cup. To further weather-proof the flag, I covered the flag with clear packing tape, being careful to not tape over the holes or ribbon along the sides.

3 Place the flowers, floral pics, bees and butterflies above the top of the trophy cup (I love bees so I had to place a bee or two in my arrangement!). Glue everything into place using fabric tac.

4 To scallop the bottom of the flag, use a jar lid and trace a half moon along the bottom and then cut.

5 To make the prize ribbon, I used the back of a ribbon pin. I glued a silver light reflector and then attached a button I designed. This could be used as a pin later for the "Birthday Gal" to wear!

You can use this trophy flag for many other events ~ first day of school, congratulations, retirement, athletic achievements! Just be sure to have fun making it! the happy birthday issue

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Marlene Haveron aka mIzZ (hONeY) bEe

that comes to A special birthday ". rned "sWEeT 16 mind is when I tu dond mom & guar My "Auntie" (sec lebrated the same ian & we both ce w of my friends birthday) had a fe ..

August 17th day. over on that warm orable part of it but the most mem me with a wrist was that she gifted pink roses, baby's corsage with tiny s & yes a BEE...I breath, sugar cube es re my love for be think there’s whe came from!

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I live in a little co-op home named "Crazy Daisy Cottage" with my two cairn terrier pup boyz, Toby McBee & Wheezer Emerald. One day my "dREaM" is to bee living in a hive called "hONeY cOmB cOTtaGe." Many call me mIzZ (hONeY) bEe, bEanSZzz or Auntie M. I guess you can say I’m a whimsy, witty, child-like, silly, artsy, loving, bEe kind of gal.

Art & creating have been a part of my life since I can remember. One time that comes to mind is when I was in kindergarten. I used the cardboard sleeve from the insert of a shirt and drew a party scene with hats, presents, cake & balloons too for my teacher, Mrs. Moecoy. She took a liking to it. So much so that she took it home and framed it. Since then, it’s been nonstop creating ~ from mixed media, halloween costumes, paintings on windows for holidays & murals, to hand made christmas ornaments, wreaths, dolls & rOBoTs too. I'm up to always learning a new technique or craft. I even started "Art Journaling" and 365 days of a Creative Journal of a "dAiLY dOsE oF vITaMiN bEe" Please stop & visit me at my blOZ called www.honeycombcottage2b.blogspot.com My door is always open and please don't bee shy. Stop in and say "HI" or a comment or two...I would love to meet you ;O)

artwork by Pam Garrison

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adorn

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F queen day for a

Nothing shouts, “Why, yes, I am the Birthday Girl!� louder than this ohso-sweet satin sash. We all love being the queen, even for just a day. Go ahead and let the world know that today is your day!

by Lynn Lebsack

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Supplies • • • • •

•

Ribbon - 2 1/2 inches wide Fabric trim Pom-pom trim Tacky Glue (E6000 - Or other super sticky glue) Letters (Here is where you can really change the look of your sash. You can use glittered or painted chipboard letters, Thickers, (thick stickers found at your local craft store) fabric scrap letters, or even embroidery stitches!) a pretty brooch or pin

1 Cut the ribbon to your desired length. The sash will hang over the right shoulder of the birthday girl and will be pinned near her left hip.

2 Embellish with trim.

Tacky Glue works great for this. Let dry.

3 Starting about five inches from the center fold and moving to the right, add the letters. I use E6000 to adhere the chipboard letters and Thickers.

Or you could try your hand at embroidering the letters. Use a basic split stitch and use a pencil to lightly write your message first.

Another idea is to create block letters using vintage fabric scraps. Simply cut out the letters block style and adhere with a craft glue stick.

4 Any additional embellishing that you’d like to add can be done now. Use silk flower petals and add pearls to their centers for extra pretty.

5 Attach a pretty pin, and look out world; here comes The Birthday Girl!

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Miss Lynn h as spent all her days cre a little girl m ating and cra aking beads fting. As u s ing dried up and pink fin m arshmallow gernail poli s sh, to a you collage pins n g te e n putting to that made h gether er mother s the need to ure she nee create has a ded therapy, lways been breathe. as natural a s her need to

Lynn Lebsack

Lynn spend s her days w ith a classro graders, usin om full of fo g any and a urth ll c re a tive method these precio s to motiva us little peo te ple. Home is to be, surro her favorite unded by th p la ce e loves of h Grant, and er life – her their childre h u sband, n, Elliott an especially e d Beatrice. njoys piddli S he ng around in and pasting her art room , making pre , cutting tties.

www.createb

reathe.blogsp

rd, 1997 3 t s u g u A , y da My 27th birth iend drove r f y o b t o h y l my total eak in his P 's e k i P f o top me to the tip n on one w o d t o g , k c u s10 pickup tr Bliss! ! d e s o p o r p d knee, an ts, two a c o tw t o g e 'v r we 13 years late f lovin! o t o l e l o h w kids, and a

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ot.com.

mini project

One of my favorite little gifts to make is this tiny wreath. Start with a vintage curtain ring, if you have one. If not, anything round will do. I wrapped the ring with vintage ribbon, decorated it with my prettiest tiny millinery flowers and added a little bird atop a tiny spool.

--Amy Powers

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This project is a lovely way to use up odd scraps of material to make a delicate decorative piece for yourself or a delightful gift. It’s nice to be able to use bits of material that are special to you, e.g. a dress one of the kids has grown out of, or that material you never got round to using.

Once you have completed the dress, you can decorate it in anyway you wish, giving it your own unique theme or style.

by Sue Griffiths

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supp es

Most of my dresses are up-cycled using found materials.

• Sewing thread • Plain paper • Vintage paper (e.g. old book papers, old envelopes) • Glue stick • Fabrics of your choice (light cotton scraps) • Ribbon • Buttons

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instructions 1 Draw and cut two bodices out of plain paper. Cover in book papers (as in picture) or any sort of paper or light fabric of your choice.

2 Stitch along the neckline and around the bottom of the bodice using sewing machine. Cross stitch across the bodice, or leave it blank.

3 Face wrong sides of bodice together and stitch along the sides. Stitch straps together securely.

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4 Using any choice of fabric, cut four rectangles about 12 centimeters wide (about 4 3/4�) and 7 centimeters long (about 2 3/4�). Pleat each rectangle and stitch each one, so each one fits half of each bodice (each pleat forms a quarter of the skirt). Glue each pleated rectangle onto the bodice.

5 For the pocket, cut out pocket shape and stitch onto dress. Decorate with bits of ribbon and buttons to make your own personal creation.

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I’m an artist based on the small Island of North Wa of Anglesey les. I'm marr off the coast ie d to Tom, m have three c y computer g hildren, two eek, and of whom are still in the ne st .

I studied art and fashion illustration a London befo t colleges in re returning Wales and home to Ang to draw you lesey. This is back. land seems I've been tea ching art for a number of the family ha years, but no s grown up, w that I find I have th own artistic e time to purs ideals. ue my

Sue

With my lov e of textiles, illustration a small busine nd craft, I st ss, “Messie Je arted ssie”, taking eldest daugh its name from a ter. my Each piece o Griffiths f work is han d-crafted and with mixed m original. I w edia, favorin ork g collage and somewhat of altered art. I a magpie, so am my work fre found objects quently featu , recycled jew re s elry, beads a I love the sig nd fabrics. ht of washin g put out to wind. It take dry, sheets a s me back to nd pillow ca being little. S theme of clo ses billowing o, I made a se thes on a wa in the ries of collag shing line, w dresses and es around th hich led to th eventually th e e making of e more involv of ballet-type miniature ch ed creations, dress assemb ildren's which are m lages. y current coll ection I sell my art locally but, lo oking for an o Tom is now ther outlet, came across helping me to E try and estabtsy, with which ence.The wh lish an onlin ole online th e presing is a new of us, and w adventure fo e've started r both a blog to acc The blog fea ompany our tures my wo e fforts. rk using pho and includes tos not used comments fr on Etsy, om Tom on online world our journey . We both po in to the st to the blog ongoing con , in the form versation, w o f an h ic h we hope m ferent to you akes it a little r usual blog. dif-

The blog: www.messiejessieblog.co.uk Etsy: www.messsiejessie.etsy.com (watch out for the three S's – full explanation on the blog).

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To celebrate my 39th birthday last year, I started a stitching project and asked others to stitch-along. It was a lot of fun. I started 39 days before my birthday and stitched one square, approximately 1�, a day.

--Amy Powers

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the birthday tower One of my very favorite birthday gifts is actually a stack of gifts! The anticipation of opening a dozen gifts, one at a time, is such a fun birthday treat for everybody.

Here I share 12 ideas for handmade gifts to tuck inside the graduating boxes to create your own birthday gift tower. Use these ideas and mix in your own. You’ll have almost as much fun putting the gifts together as the recipient will have opening them.

Look for nesting gift boxes like the ones I used at Hobby Lobby or the Container Store. Buy a few to have on hand the next time you want to really impress the birthday girl (or boy!)

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box 1 tiny banner Making a miniature banner is a breeze when you use this trick from my friend Tracey Fisher. Use Happy Tape! Simply fold it over baker’s twine and snip into a dovetail (seen here) or pennant shapes.

This fun mini-banner can be used for decorating life size shelves and picture frames...or suspend it between two bamboo skewers for a very fun caketopper!

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box 2 hairclip If you’ve never worked with polymer clay before, this is a fun project to start with! There are all sorts of fabulous press-molds available through etsy shopkeeper MoldMuse, like this fun cake mold. I used white Premo clay and followed the package’s instructions for baking. With a very fine paint brush and acrylic paints, I painted the leaves green and the roses and sides of the cake pink. I coated it twice with an acrylic sealer.

Using a strong glue (I used Beacon 527 which is nontoxic), I glued the mini-cake to a felt flower and then the felt flower to a hair clip blank (also available through etsy). the happy birthday issue

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box 3 ribbon key fob Sharon Stanley sent me this fun craft idea. This ribbon key fob is super easy to make...it requires only only ribbon, a pony tail holder and a split ring. Simply loop the pony-tail holder onto the split ring and then fill it up with ties of ribbon. It’s extra fun to open a small box and have the ribbon pop out!

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box 4 a bit of bling Make a special birthday brooch by layering buttons, felt flowers, and a crepe paper rosette. Sew (or glue) the layers together and add a pin back.

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box 5 birthday tea Here’s another fun idea from my friend Tracey Fisher. Embellish store-bought teabags by running a stitch around the perimeter. Leave the tail for the tea tag, which can be personalized for the birthday girl. Add a satin-stitched detail, like a sweet heart, and you have a really unique gift.

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box 6 statement ring Making a funky statement ring is as simple as gluing an oversized piece (like this fun felt rose found on etsy) to a ring blank (also found on etsy). Search your stash for brooches, widowed earrings, buttons, even dollhouse miniatures. If you can glue it, you can make a ring! the happy birthday issue

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box 7 jar of wishes On scraps of paper, handwrite special birthday wishes. Roll them up and tie them with bits of twine. Then fill a recycled jar with them for a heartfelt (and free!) gift. Ask friends to share their wishes to make this gift truly meaningful.

(Project by Tracey Fisher)

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box 8 pet rock All you need for this project is a little bit of time, leftover paint and some clean river rocks. Sketch your design on the rock and then paint. Use a permanent pen to add details and/or words.

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box 9 sachet The secret to making this sachet is to make an inner pillow using cotton batting to hold the potpourri (I used Dream Herbs Pillow Mix from Mountain Rose Herbs). That way even thin fabric like this silk shantung isn’t bumpy when filled with the herbs. Decorate the sachet with velvet ribbon and a spray of millinery flowers for a sweet dreams package.

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box 10 box of inspiration Using a coffee filter as a liner, fill the box with special bits and bobs from your craft stash for a gift any fellow crafter is sure to love.

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box 11 mini-journal The covers of this little journal are made by carefully cutting the covers from an old small book. Use the pages from the book as a template to cut watercolor paper to size. I added doodles and ephemera to each page and itty bitty watercolor & crayon sets (from World Market) to inspire the recipient.

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box 12 felt cake The secret to this luscious cake is ruching felt strips to make the creamy “frosting�. Simply run a zig-zag stitch instead of a straight stitch down the strip of fabric and when you gather it, it creates frosting-like curls! the happy birthday issue

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artwork by Pam Garrison

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Photograph by Koralee Teichroeb

project index For printable instructions and templates, click below.

A Proper Topper (template) Birthday Treasury Fringe Benefits Pixie Sticks (template) Butterfly Wishes (template) Wrappings Snip Snip (template) Birthday Bouquet Thank You (printable) Sugar Sweet (template) Dollhouse-to-go Primer Tags (printable) Silk Rose Favorable First Place Wee Birthday Little Red Dress

Fancy Sit-Upons A Cherry On Top You’re Invited Places, Everyone For Mother A Tiny Birthday Book (template) Birthday Butterflies (template) Hip Hip Hooray A Paper Crown (template) A Pocketful of Wishes That Takes the Cake Chubby Cakes Party Marker Party Dress Queen for a Day Birthday Tower

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g

thank

I want to all the artists for being such joys to work with. Thank you for the you put into your projects.

t e & love Thank you friend qua ty

to my right-hand Pam for her devotion to making this magazine a publication.

my sweet guys

I thank Rich & Alfredo for their selfless and mighty

tience, love & rst i

.

(You are everything to me.)

And I

thank you, dear reader, for

buying this issue and

supporting this

inspired fun

dream. I hope you are

to

make at least one thing you spied here. And I hope you have the most

making it!

with Love from Amy

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