The Paper Purse

2012 is the year to get rid of clutter!

2012-01-03T04:48:00.014-05:00

I'm a list maker. I like lists. To-do lists. Shopping lists. Ideas to try in crafting lists. You name it. I love lists. When I saw this "list" I have to admit, my heart was so happy! A calendar that is listing all the stuff I know I should do and is on my long-term list but I'll be honest, I tend to not look at that list until we have a party coming up or guests coming over LOL

This calendar makes the list of things to do into a really easy to follow list. Each day you tackle one spot or area, like the nightstand (and yes I have way too much on my nightstand!). How easy is that?! I've downloaded my copy - now you can check it out HERE to download and get rid of that clutter!

NOTE: I planned to post this back in January then got busy with crafting since I was silly enough to sign up for a few shows in Jan and Feb... and now I've signed up for another one in March!

Take. Leave. Waste.

2012-01-02T05:31:00.009-05:00

Take nothing but pictures.

Leave nothing but footprints.

Waste nothing but time.

PHOTO CREDIT Jody9

My poor neglected blog... I will try to do better in 2012

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

The balance of 2011 really flew by, didn't it?! My poor neglected blog. After all the crafting I did for the craft shows in November I had planned to spend time on my blog and get it back up to date with photos and info from the shows. Hah! Instead, I took a rather long holiday from blogging (and crafting) in December. It felt good. I even managed to clean out a ton of items that I was hoarding but realized that I really won't use them - and it felt GOOD to purge!

What an interesting year 2011 was. Lots of good things and par for the course, some bad as well. But now, we welcome 2012. It's going to be an awesome year! I don't make resolutions but I do try to figure out what I want to change or improve on in my life.

I will smile more.

I will drink more water.

I will try to make sure I wear matching socks everyday... but if I don't it isn't a big deal because most people won't be looking at my feet.

Since I'm trying my hand at some new crafts, a new venture and some new ideas I've signed up for a bridal show in January and am putting the finishing touches on my creations. This type of event is a bit different for me because a bridal show typically is one where brides (and grooms) get ideas and pamphlets and oogle and stare at booth after booth while their head spins and they dream big while trying to keep a handle on the wedding budget. I'm not really sure what to expect. The show I am doing isn't a huge show (there is one in Ottawa that is just OTT in my opinion - tons of info and I'm sure that it is worth it for many vendors but I can't fathom a vendor fee upwards of $800). No wonder some companies charge so much for their services ;)

Today I am prepping for that show - I want to see how my table set-up looks and do the tweaks and changes now - not on the day of the show.

Hope you had a wonderful 2011 - let's plan on making 2012 the best year yet!

SHARING: A Christmas Riddle

2011-11-29T06:07:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, it took me a while (hint: say it out loud) to get this riddle. Once I did, I had to share it because it's brilliant!!

A Christmas Riddle

Three weeks...

2011-11-27T07:19:00.000-05:00

It's been about three weeks since my last post - my bad! My mom and I were busy with gearing up with creating for the various craft shows we did in November - all three shows we did were new to us (although not new to that area). All in all, we did well this year - we've already booked our spaces for next year!

We checked out the other crafters at the various shows (one of the shows had some gorgeous prim items which I love and it was smart of me not to bring spending money because I know I would have spent it all) and some of us were discussing the market and the sales at different shows. It's interesting to note that some of them have been doing these shows for years and some were newbies like us and didn't really know what to expect. One of the shows had almost 3000 people come through the doors (based on admission sales).

Now, we have to unpack, sort and figure out what we can store and what we will gift to family and friends LOL

Enjoy the weekend!

SHARING: Qbee's Quest: Lip Balm Holder

2011-11-06T06:35:00.000-05:00

It's CRAFT SHOW season again! I've signed up for 3 in November - first one was yesterday. With all the shows I did last year, each time I try and have some older ideas and some newer ones. I haven't had a chance to try this one yet but I bet it would be a great seller.

Qbee's Quest: Lip Balm Holder: Lip Balm Holders are such a fun project to share with your friends. I first came across this idea...

SHARING: Nugget Box and Tea Bag Holder

2011-11-05T05:36:00.004-04:00

Who doesn't love nuggets? Personally my fave is the special dark from Hershey.... yummy! And to sit down with a few nuggets and a cuppa tea?! There are times when I cannot unwrap one fast enough to appease the chocoholic in me...

This would be a nice gift set - easy to make - easy to share!

The Stampin' Bunny: Nugget Box and Tea Bag Holder

SHARING: One thing done today...

2011-10-27T06:34:00.002-04:00

This is a really cute chocolate bar holder. Would make a nice gift for a co-worker or neighbour and since Christmas if quickly approaching it seems to be a quick and easy project.

The Stampin' Bunny: February Technique Class -Candy Bar Holder & Trash to Treasure

SHARING: Carolers Three

2011-10-26T06:28:00.000-04:00

For those crafters who want to get a start on their Christmas cards, check out this wonderful graphic by Mo.

Digital Pencil Too: Carolers Three: Now available on Mo's Digital Pencil -- by request: Carolers Three -- for people who prefer Maisie, Victoria and Charlie merged for the...

SHARING: One and Only: Craft Shed!!!

2011-10-09T08:03:00.000-04:00

Now THIS is a very cool idea - I bet many of us wish we had a space of our own to craft in - this gal made herself a crafting shed!!

One and Only: Craft Shed!!!

Gluesticks: Halloween Lollipop Trees

2011-09-29T05:13:00.004-04:00

It's almost the end of September and the beginning of October. I will be sharing Halloween stuffs on my Halloween blog as we begin the countdown to October 31st, but for now check out Gluesticks: Halloween Lollipop Trees

SHARING: Fruit Smoothie

2011-09-28T06:42:00.001-04:00

I'm craving fruit - I guess it's change in seasons that makes my body say, hey give me one last serving of FRESH FRUIT before we start the cooler temps LOL

Anyway, how lucky that my gf Cinny is sharing a Fruit Smoothie recipe - get the printable HERE ENJOY!

SHARING: Halloween Party Labels

2011-09-24T05:59:00.000-04:00

This post really should be on my Halloween blog since it is Halloween-based but it pertains to crafting too so I figured I would share it here.

Check out the post Halloween Party Labels by Shysocialites.com | Worldlabel Blog

Something fun for your breakfast: Candy Corn Waffles

2011-09-22T05:38:00.000-04:00

*Random Thoughts of a SUPERMOM!*: Candy Corn Waffles: After making fun kid friendly waffles this spring { rainbow waffles } and this summer { watermelon waffles }, I figured it was time to start...

Poppies at Play: Before and Afters

2011-09-21T05:34:00.000-04:00

Many of us tried our hand at DIY at least once, and some of us have the ability to see what COULD be from what is... check out the Before and Afters at Poppies at Play - AMAZING!

Poppies at Play: Before and Afters: Picture Frame Tea Party Table Coffee Table Blanket Bench Hanging Bookshelf Hutch ...

Rain gutter anyone?

2011-09-20T05:40:00.008-04:00

How about this for a clever new use of a rain gutter?

Original post HERE

8 Layer Chocolate Cake

2011-09-19T05:45:00.003-04:00

CAKE

Yes, you heard me, CAKE!
I love cake. I love chocolate cake.
I love the story behind this chocolate cake and I love that Joy Hall is sharing this because now I get to share it too!

When there is cake involved you know we are going to smile.

Enjoy and check out the full post HERE

SHARING: Mischief Test Tube Holder

2011-09-18T06:00:00.002-04:00

Wizard's Hangout: Mischief Test Tube Holder

SHARING: Happy Boo-Day Halloween Freebie!

2011-09-17T05:41:00.000-04:00

My Hiding Place In Cyberspace: Happy Boo-Day Halloween Freebie!: Hi crafty friends! Sorry I am late, but I am sure you are used to it by now :D Without further delay, I would like to introduce to you ...

SHARING: Two new images and a flower freebie

2011-09-16T05:50:00.000-04:00

Tiddly Inks: Tiddly Tuesday! - Two new images and a flower freebie

SHARING: Pumpkin Basket Fill

2011-09-15T05:45:00.002-04:00

Paper Squirrel: Free Digi Friday: Pumpkin Basket Fill: A free digi - a Pumpkin Basket Fill...

SHARING: Party Time!

2011-09-12T06:35:00.002-04:00

Everyone loves a party and this is a great post about a party in a Halloween theme - and as a bonus there is a freebie involved :)

Check out the post here and don't forget to leave some love if you download her freebie.

A neat idea for a bookmark

2011-09-03T07:23:00.001-04:00

Another neat idea for those who like to make bookmarks - haven't seen anything like this and she's offering the printable free! Check it out HERE

The Crafting Countdown begins...

2011-09-01T04:51:00.013-04:00

Happy September 1st. The official countdown for most crafters has begun. We are in the midst of signing up for various craft shows (both Autumn themed and Christmas themed), we are busy making lists of materials needed to get our creative juices flowing and some of us are smart enough to write down everything we buy and make to ensure we create enough of our handcrafted items for each show (I'm starting my list, but I will admit that last year I didn't have one and I can't say that I was disappointed with my lack of list LOL)

For those who may be looking for ideas and suggestions for what to make this year I stumbled upon a site called CraftIdeas.info and thought I would share it because it contains a mind-boggling amount of craftings - in all different mediums.

Trust me when I say you will spend A LOT of time at this site! Check it out HERE.

SHARING: Starburst Baggie Topper

2011-08-31T05:01:00.002-04:00

A very nice share to use with starburst candies - check it out HERE

SHARING: Stuck in Cogs N Gears

2011-08-30T06:45:00.000-04:00

Beyond the Fringe: Stuck in Cogs N Gears: Hello! I've been playing with Digi's lately and am really enjoying the steam punk-ish style. Here's another digi I did up recently. I like...

SHARING: Free Sentiments...

2011-08-30T06:40:00.000-04:00

Tales from Pollycraft: Tuesday Treat! Free Sentiments...

SHARING: Free "Jump'n In the Leaves" Digi-Stamp & Crafty Co...

2011-08-29T05:36:00.000-04:00

Broken Box Stock: Free "Jump'n In the Leaves" Digi-Stamp & Crafty Co...: I just love Fall, the crisp air, fresh breezes, the smell of falling leaves...

Copic Marker Storage - before/after

2011-08-28T05:08:00.007-04:00

Those are Copic markers... are you drooling? I know I am!

I have about 2 dozen and as many of us have decided to increase our stash of "must haves" to include the fantastic Copic markers it's always nice to see someone who has come up with a fantastic way to store them... check out the post HERE

SHARING: Chateleine vs Hussif/Needlecase

2011-08-27T08:15:00.000-04:00

I am not a sewer but it got me thinking... how freakin' clever is this?! This really is one of the neatest things I've ever seen with regards to crafting of any kind.

olderrose: Chateleine vs Hussif/Needlecase

SHARING: Lunch Box Printables

2011-08-26T05:02:00.000-04:00

Darling Doodles: Lunch Box Printables

SHARING: Spooky Halloween Party Appetizers!

2011-08-25T04:40:00.000-04:00

I know that most of you are not thinking Halloween party yet but my mind is racing and we are gearing up for our Graveyard Gala. Ideas, suggestions and planning have all been started in my notebook and come September we'll get down to finalizing everything and gettin' it done! In the meantime take a look at this great post about some spooky party appetizers... "Cute Food For Kids" ?: Spooky Halloween Party Appetizers!

SHARING: A little "Chatty"

2011-08-24T04:56:00.000-04:00

Diane's Digital Designs: DIGI #107 - "Chatty"

SHARING: Freebie ballooons digi stamp

2011-08-23T05:54:00.001-04:00

Bits N Bobs: Freebie ballooons digi stamp

Excellent Post - Boredom is a choice

2011-08-20T07:22:00.000-04:00

I read "Don't Eat the Paste" daily and I love this post about boredom. With summer fun coming to an end and back to school prep starting for many I think some kids (and adults) have said "I'm bored" more than once over the past month or so (and not only when on summer vacation!).

Click HERE to read the post.

SHARING: New to me site for vector graphics

2011-08-19T07:12:00.000-04:00

I haven't been online in a week or so (sadly, our vacation time is quickly coming to an end) but I did find this new-to-me vector graphics site and they have some nice freebies, so I'm sharing the link HERE

SHARING: Super Simple Christmas Cards

2011-08-18T04:56:00.000-04:00

These are great simple cards for the holiday season. For those of us who love to create and send out cards to family and friends but want to make sure that if we start now we'll be done BEFORE December rolls around LOL

Twisted Chick Creations: Super Simple Christmas Cards

SHARING: Fun Little Box to Make!

2011-08-16T04:52:00.000-04:00

This is a super cute box and easy to make.

Twisted Chick Creations: Fun Little Box to Make!

August is here

2011-08-15T06:46:00.006-04:00

I know that August is here and we are enjoying the sunshine but in the back of my brain is that nagging voice... don't forget that Autumn is coming! Oooh the crisp mornings and chilly evenings. The crackle and smell of a bonfire while you sit around it gabbing with family and friends and roasting marshmallows. Yum. I have to admit that Autumn is my favorite time of the year (and not just because Halloween is in that time frame!). I wish we had more of the fall season - it really is the best one around these parts - and less of the wintery cold season... I like sweaters but c'mon, 5+ months of one season is too much in my books... unless it was Autumn!

I also wanted to mention that we are taking a much needed vacation this week and doing a bit of traveling, some Halloween shopping and of course some much need R&R.

SHARING: Adorable Graphics

2011-08-14T06:20:00.001-04:00

A cyber-sister of mine shared this link recently and I have to admit; I clicked. I oogled. I shopped. Such cute images!

Check it out here

SHARING: Desktop Note Box Tutorial

2011-08-13T05:30:00.000-04:00

Ever have too much cardboard in your recycle box? I found this tutorial and thought it was a simple way to reuse what we have and the end result is TOO CUTE!
Desktop Note Box Tutorial ~ Tiffany Doodles Digital Stamps

SHARING: DIGI DAISIES

2011-08-12T05:10:00.000-04:00

Diane's Digital Designs: DIGI #105 - DAISIES

SHARING: Missy Kitty

2011-08-11T04:18:00.000-04:00

A cute little cat freebie - grab it while you can!

Spyder's Corner: Wednesday's Digi! Missy Kitty

It's a princess, a crown, a GAME?!

2011-08-10T05:20:00.003-04:00

Rather than the typical "pin the tail on the donkey", how about this fun pin the crown on the princess game at your daughter's party?

Check out the details HERE

Sharing a Freebie: Ice Cream Recipe Cards

2011-08-09T06:16:00.000-04:00

Tricia-Rennea, illustrator: Ice Cream Recipe Cards

I love Tricia's work - she is uber-talented. And who doesn't like a freebie?!

Simple but sweet

2011-08-07T04:32:00.005-04:00

The car club I belong to is doing an event like no other we have done in the past... it's starting on Sunday and carrying over to Monday.

A leisurely Sunday drive followed by lunch at a local pub (while overlooking the marina - how cool!), afterward there will be time to shop and cruise around followed by dinner and overnighting at a waterfront inn. I'm not fully participating due to my work schedule (last week before my vacation - YIPPEE!) but we are hosting an open gate at our place for anyone who wants to just kick back and relax for a few hours rather than spend the time at the inn waiting for dinner or if the weather is too icky to drive around and see the sights. Of course I had to make a little something for those who decide to trek down to see us and our FINALLY finished front yard. Here's a quick shot of the goodies I made.

The countdown is on!

2011-08-06T22:30:00.000-04:00

A quick photo of the final product. A bit of paint to cover the icky gold frame; a few tombstones and letters and VOILA! We have our countdown to Halloween!

New work from Karla

2011-08-05T06:27:00.000-04:00

There is an artist whose blog I follow, and she is super talented, who just posted a new painting and it is lovely. Not only that, but this print will be in her etsy store soon.

Check out the post HERE for all the details.

Cute Treat

2011-08-03T05:43:00.005-04:00

I don't like peppermint but this is such a cute idea that I have to pass it on. Her site has tons of ideas and I'm all about ideas! Check it out HERE

Owl be glad to share this... LOL

2011-08-02T04:26:00.011-04:00

I love owls. I loved owls BEFORE Harry Potter made them beloved by the masses. My mother loved to collect owl-themed items - maybe that's where I get it from.

They are incredible creatures; beautiful and majestic. Man will try but will probably not succeed at duplicating their ability to fly without sound. Just tellin' it like it is.

Anyway, I came across this blog with a cute owl project and thought I'd share. Check out the wonderful post by Zoe, HERE

R.I.P. Phantom "little man" Boo

2011-08-01T07:54:00.000-04:00

Not sure why I'm posting this - it just makes me cry.

I miss having you join me in the bathroom (in the sink!) when I take my shower.

I miss having you curl up on my chest and purr yourself silly.

I miss the sound of you meowing at the bottom of the stairs telling me it's time for breakfast... at 3:30 am!

You mom and dad are having a hard time dealing with your departure.

We miss you so much. You'll always be my "little man".

How fitting...

2011-08-01T06:26:00.000-04:00

I subscribe to a few Halloween blogs... okay, more than just a few, more like double-digits LOL This one caught my eye - check out this quick post HERE Guess this means I should hits the shoppes. Actually, we already hit Michael's two weeks ago and came away with a TON of Halloween goodies. It was awesome. Guess I'll have to start up my Halloween blog again. Yippee!

Lime Mango Candle Tins

2011-07-27T06:11:00.000-04:00

A super quick post this morning :)

For the country market show that my mother and I participated in last weekend, I made up some quick candle tins. I scented the wax beads with lime mango (yummy!) and put on a colourful and cute wrapper.

Then polished each of them off with a cello bag and some ribbon. Cute, eh?!

Less than 100...

2011-07-24T04:21:00.007-04:00

It's now less than 100 days until Halloween.

I can hardly wait! I've already started planning the Graveyard Gala - sure hope you are thinking about your costume for the event! I love to create stuff for our Halloween theme home. In fact, just in time for the Summertime Spookfest BBQ party we held a few weeks ago I created some new artwork for our house.

Take a peek...

A few craft photos

2011-07-22T05:15:00.009-04:00

The first date of our attendance at a local market nearby is this weekend and I'm ready to go!

Hear that Mom? I've packed up my totes and I'm ready to go! I've put the finishing touches on the bits I'm taking so anything I make in the next few days will be for the next Sunday market we do later in the summer :)

While going through my cardstock stash I figured I could make a few more of those cute notepads (I've shown some of the others from previous shows) and whipped up a couple of new ones.

This is the coolest! Recipe for fun in the summer sun - STARFISH S'MORE...

2011-07-21T05:31:00.001-04:00

Hungry Happenings: Recipe for fun in the summer sun - STARFISH S'MORE...: "When I did a Google search on S'mores, I was astonished at all of the ways you can use the basic combination of chocolate, graham crackers ..."

Meet Monster

2011-07-20T21:15:00.000-04:00

You remember our first "baby", Pumpkin?

Here she is lazin' on the back of the couch, one of her fave places. She can keep an eye on the door for visitors as well as be in the range to hear if the fridge door opens signaling a small tasty snack!

How about our second furry little one, Phantom?

Whether sleeping on the couch, bed or window perch he loves to turn himself inside out and shut out the world while he grabs some zzzzz's

Well, now please meet our latest (and LAST!) addition to the family... Monster.

Monster is from the local humane society (as were our other two) and he is just over a year old. We've had him now for about a month and he's fitting in quite well. That is to say that his siblings now tolerate him a lot more LOL

Been a long time...

2011-07-07T05:36:00.000-04:00

It's been a long time since I posted - my poor blog! Spring leading into Summer was full of rain, lots of outside work and of course the main culprit to my MIA status - crazy overtime at work. But things have improved at work with the addition to a new member of my team so I now should be able to spend some time on my blog once again, and spend time crafting! Yay, go me!

I'll be crafting up a storm in the next few weeks because my mother and I signed on for a Farmers Market stall and I have NOTHING ready to go for that yet. Now I just have to decide what to create :)

A great crafty idea for a book lover

2011-04-27T06:30:00.000-04:00

What a great idea for a book lover!

Check out the whole post (and downloads!) HERE

A quick and simple way to serve deviled eggs

2011-04-25T06:26:00.000-04:00

This post was about a way to serve eggs for Easter but it would work pretty much anytime you want to have a fun way to serve deviled eggs! Hungry Happenings: A quick and simple way to serve deviled eggs..:

Fun idea for an Easter Brunch - Carrot Crescents F...

2011-04-24T06:42:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter! This is a super cute idea - maybe stash it away to use next year.

Hungry Happenings: Fun idea for an Easter Brunch - Carrot Crescents F...: "There is only one spring day that starts off with your family running around the yard in search of decorated eggs. Easter Sunday is quite ..."

DIY Wood Plank Mat by Alison of How Does She?

2011-04-21T05:27:00.005-04:00

This is the cutest front door/back door mat I've seen in a while - and it's a DIY project!
She is uber-talented and I share her feelings about spiders *YUCKY*

Guest post: DIY Wood Plank Mat by Alison of How Does She?

Another show done...

2011-04-02T18:34:00.000-04:00

There was a "Ladies Night Out" in a small local community nearby on Friday night and my mother and I each decided to grab a vendor table. The place was packed for almost all the 3 hours (must have been due to the silent auction items (there were lots and they were all awesome items!) and the fact that there was a host of local firemen giving out flowers, chocolates and pouring wine).

I did very well at the show. My poor table was looked quite nekkid come the end of the night and I had TONS of people comment on my items, make a purchase and take a business card. Wonder if I'll have enough after-biz to quit my day job... nice dream eh?!

Anyway, for those who may want to create something this weekend, take a look at these cute boxes from Don't Eat the Paste.

Check out the post HERE

Egg in a Basket boxes - Printable

2011-03-18T06:15:00.002-04:00

This is a super cute project for Easter. Think of all the little goodies you could put in the boxes!

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Egg in a Basket boxes

A few more items

2011-03-17T06:20:00.000-04:00

I bought this printable set and I have to say it was HORRIBLE to put together.

The directions were very bad - to me it was like a few steps were missed in the instruction sheet. The how-to pics are unclear and not sequential. My poor brain! So, I've doctored this one so that it looks kinda like the instruction sheet final photo but I am NOT impressed with this printable.

The final result is cute and I've done some tweaking to the file so that it goes together better.

And these are something I have wanted to try - not sure if I will bring them to the craft show on Saturday but they are cute. Mini birthday cakes with matching mini card. Of course, I forgot to put the candle light on to show you but you get the idea.

Cheers!

2011-03-17T06:14:00.000-04:00

As we celebrate with green beer today I'm reminded that there is less than 230 days till Halloween!

A few craft photos

2011-03-15T04:21:00.001-04:00

Another craft show is quickly approaching (this coming Saturday) and I'm pretty much done all the crafting I *need* to do.

Here is a quick look at a few things I have just finished...

Gourmet Jelly Bean Carrots. These are the first batch * no bunny *

here is the second batch * with bunny *

I also had a chance to make chocolate lollipops. I had to come up with a nice way to present them so I used some card blanks. A few graphics, some glitter (on the noses) and a few knife cuts on the inside of the card to hold the lollipop stick and these were ready to wrap up and put a topper on to make them look a bit fancy.

Now, I can try some new stuff and if it turns out ok then I'll bring it to the show too!

I just noticed...

2011-03-14T19:33:00.000-04:00

I just noticed that my blog has had 25,000 visitors! Go me!

Life for Dessert: Trash to Treasure....Antique headboard bench!

2011-03-13T09:02:00.000-04:00

Last summer we bought a bench that mimic's this gal's tutorial. It was made by a local guy and we absolutely love it - it's an off-white and of course we put a 3D skull on the back of ours instead of a nice pillow... not really a surprize there!

For those who might be a DIY-type here is a great tutorial for turning an old headboard into a bench.
Life for Dessert: Trash to Treasure....Antique headboard bench!: "I'm writing this on Sunday night. I'm so excited that I just have to post this for you to read first thing on Monday morning! I ..."

Another Craft Show coming up!

2011-03-07T05:08:00.037-05:00

My blog has been quiet lately - I'm gearing up for another craft show! This one is being advertised as a Spring Craft Show but let me tell you it is VERY difficult to think and create SPRING when it's snowing outside- again!

Here are some photos of a few items I've created with spring and Easter in mind...

Grab N Go cups

Shelly Comiskey artwork

Gift Baskets

(kit from Daisie)

And last but not least these cuties

(by Libby Merk - Doodle Bee Art Studio)

I even used tootsie pops like she did in her photo because they are just perfect!

Shamrock boxes - free printable

2011-02-28T05:09:00.002-05:00

With March just a day away it's time to start thinking about celebrating St. Patrick's Day! Not sure what we'll do to celebrate the day of green this year but I think gifting in this box would be a cute idea for family, friends or co-workers. Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Shamrock boxes

Spiral Wire Ear Cuffs

2011-02-25T19:59:00.000-05:00

A great DIY project for those who like earrings. Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Spiral Wire Ear Cuffs

Jeweled Printable Boxes

2011-02-22T09:30:00.000-05:00

Don't know if I shared this one already but it's very pretty! Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Jeweled Printable Boxes

Thought of the Day

2011-02-21T05:41:00.000-05:00

This was yesterday's thought/quote of the day and I really like it.

All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness. The important thing is they should be part of our daily lives. -Dalai Lama

Craft Show Results

2011-02-20T08:52:00.000-05:00

For those of you who emailed me about wanting to hear about the results from the craft show that we did yesterday - not bad. This was the first year that the festival had vendors and in all three venues the traffic was so-so. Next year they are thinking of putting all the vendors in one area - much better idea! Luckily the venue sponsored a chili/soup lunch and that brought people in to wander and check out. Thankfully the table fee was low so not selling a lot of our items wasn't really a big deal in the profit area of things. I think the only vendor that did "well" in our venue was the couple who did leather goods.

Funny enough, the items that I had toted from show to show for the past year sold! Really?! I couldn't give the darn things away (recipe books and ABC/123 books) but they sold so quickly it was almost surreal. Go figure. With the downtime during yesterday's show we figured out our plan of attack for the Spring Craft Show that we are doing in March. Some great ideas and layouts are planned so I best get cracking and get crafting!

Cute little note pads

2011-02-17T06:30:00.000-05:00

My mother and I have tables at a local winter festival this Saturday.

It's hard to come up with crafty things with a winter theme but not a Christmas theme - thankfully I saw this idea on a few blogs (like HERE and HERE) and decided to give these notepads a whirl. These are totally not winter themed but they are cute!

Handmade copper buttons

2011-02-15T06:28:00.000-05:00

I've never seen anything like this but what a cool idea - I don't like pennies, I think that governments should abolish them. They always end up at the bottom of my change purse and they are such a pain!

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Handmade copper buttons

QuinkyArt: Zombie Valentine's Linocut

2011-02-12T05:20:00.001-05:00

For those who may be into Halloween (like me!) or for those of you who have a 13-year old boy at home who loves zombies - these are Valetine's that you have to check out! QuinkyArt: Zombie Valentine's Linocut

Teddy Love + A digi QP freebie

2011-02-11T05:24:00.008-05:00

While I don't do much digi-scrapping I do love digi elements and one of my fave artists/designers is Irene Alexeeva. She creates some of the cutest kits I have seen. This time she has created a wonderful teddy bear kit with love - in red and in time for Valentine's Day.

Check out her full post and grab the freebie HERE

Another quick Valentine Project Freebie!

2011-02-10T11:40:00.004-05:00

In case you are still looking for something to create for Valentine's Day, Darcie Heater has posted a freebie project - actually, it is one project but in 3 colours!

She always has great projects and tons of inspiration if you are in a crafting funk.

Check it out HERE

Lacy favor boxes 1

2011-02-10T06:28:00.000-05:00

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Lacy favor boxes 1 A nice collection of favour boxes - and they are free!

the little blue room: Take Note

2011-02-09T06:03:00.003-05:00

I came across this sweet little notes holder and had to share. Honestly, it looks like a lot of work but reading through the directions it seems very simple - now I just have to find the time to actually give it a go!

the little blue room: Take Note

Bumble bee and lady bug bags

2011-02-08T05:45:00.004-05:00

Ribbons, etc.: Bumble bee and lady bug bags: This is such a cute little bag! Check out Ribbons, etc for the post on this and other really cute projects.

Which of these cuties would you like to win?

2011-02-07T06:33:00.001-05:00

You know what I love? I love printables. I love people who create them and people who share them.

Maybe I love them because I am not brilliant when it comes to creating-from-scratch. Once I see an idea I can work from that and make that idea into my own creation, but coming up with the idea in the first place... not gonna happen! My brain doesn't work that way.

Aren't these the cutest little boxes?! I love the owl and the panda - hard to say which is my favourite - because black and white is always in style but the owl is super cute LOL I love the owl. First pick. No, wait, panda is the first pick! Oh darn, I love both of them. Oh, and the frog! Wait! No. Yes! I love the bunny too. Argh!

Jinjerup has a contest to win one or more of these cuties! Make sure you take a peek HERE

Organized Kids - printable freebie

2011-02-07T04:50:00.006-05:00

This is such a cute way to get kids to help around the house. Our 4-legged purring *kids* won't use this wonderful freebie but maybe you can use it in your family.

From CreativeMamma.com - check out the freebie HERE

A Piece of Cake: Strawberry Cake Anyone?

2011-02-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

I'm not a great cook (don't ask about the number of fires I've started in a toaster!) but I love to bake and I'm pretty good at it truth be told. I have an awesome chocolate chip cookie recipe (people pay big bucks for the results of that time spent in the kitchen!). According to various shows on the Food Network I've learned that it's actually more difficult to bake because the recipe must be followed exactly in order to get the proper results. Cooking you can play around with the ingredients and not make a huge mess of the final results.

One of my favourite books to help me with my baking is The Cake Mix Doctor by Anne Byrn. I've got most of her books and they all rock! Now, I haven't tried every recipe but those that I have tried are amazing. This month she is sharing a recipe for Strawberry Cake... but with a twist - this cake is gluten-free.

So for those of you who are removing gluten from your diet or know someone who is searching for gluten-free recipes, try this recipe out. She also has a book of Gluten-Free Recipes (I don't have it and can't vouch for any of the recipes but her previous books have been excellent in my opinion).

A Piece of Cake: February 2011

Valentine Cupcake Wrappers

2011-02-03T06:39:00.000-05:00

Pinks, reds, hearts and love... yep, Valentine's Day is quickly approaching so I have to share this generous freebie printable for cupcake wrappers.

Personally I love cupcakes - I prefer them over regular cake. Do you know why? CCCDC, that's why! Cup Cake Calories Don't Count! Cupcakes are like muffins and muffins are good for therefore cupcakes must be good for you too! That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Check out the goodies HERE

PINWHEEL STATIONERY SET

2011-01-31T05:50:00.000-05:00

I happened across this super cute freebie - everyone loves a freebie! This is a stationary set with a pinwheel graphic, very cute! Check it out here bread of many: FREE PRINTABLE : PINWHEEL STATIONERY SET

Before... and After - Simple Altered Jars

2011-01-28T06:50:00.000-05:00

BEFORE: These were in the bargin bin at a local shoppe and for 90 cents each I figured I could make 'em into something new and fun. Those flower accents are not really very cute.

AFTER: I figured that by working with what was already on the bottle I'd use prim designs. These graphics are by Cheryl Seslar - aren't they adorable?! And below is a close up of two of them.

Kinda crafty but very tasty!

2011-01-27T06:40:00.000-05:00

We've all seen these goodies on various baking sites - they are the "in" trend right now in baking circles. Well, for my birthday my parents gifted me the Wilton Pops book and cake pop holder. Had to try them out.

Now, these are not a paper craft but they sure are super tasty! These are my first attempt - I think they turned out pretty good. The cake is cherry chip with vanilla icing. Next time I'll venture into the world of chocolate cake! YUM!

And now a close up of one of the pops...

Black and White Flower printable boxes

2011-01-27T04:11:00.000-05:00

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Black and White Flower printable boxes

Sharing Just a little something...

2011-01-25T06:18:00.000-05:00

This is SUCH a cute altered tin that Karel has finished. It's too sweet not to share!

ArtandScraps: Just a little something...

We won! And on my birthday!

2011-01-22T07:14:00.000-05:00

Many of you may have heard about the CHEO Dream of a Lifetime. Children's Hospitals of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) have been running this lottery for 20 years. The big prize is always a house, fully kitted out with all the furniture and "toys" you could every want. There are lots of prizes to be won (cruises, cars, sunshine destination vacations, shopping sprees, hockey tickets and more) - prizes are donated so money raised goes to CHEO.

Last year we toured the dream house, oohed and aahhed but didn't win anything. This year we didn't get a chance to tour the dream house but bought a ticket. At $100 a piece it's not like playing the weekly Lotto 6/49 or LottoMax for a few bucks.

The draws were on Jan 17 and 18 - and low and behold - we won something this year! What a nice surprize to happen on my birthday! A $1000 shopping spree at a very large local mall is a fantastic prize! Last night we ventured to the mall (about an hour away) to walk the levels and check out the stores and get an idea of what we were going to spend our winnings on... sorry Mom, we did pick out some Halloween stuff!

Little Shell box and coloring page

2011-01-21T05:45:00.000-05:00

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Little Shell box and coloring page

What a cute little box!

New Business Cards...

2011-01-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

Good news - the new business cards I ordered came in the mail today. Yay me!

For past shows I had bought some of those print-your-own biz card blanks and while they were nice I was thinking that it was time to make a bit of a change for the upcoming shows that I am booked at in February and March.

I saw an ad (I'm sure we've all seen them) for "Free Business Cards" at VistaPrint.ca. While not completely free (pay for shipping) I managed to make my choices without too much hassle. I'm really happy with the final product and to be honest the shipping cost was less than the total cost for the blanks, the ink and the time for the previous cards I made myself. The only downside is that on the back of the cards is advertising from the supplier - but it's a small price to pay - and the font is small so it's not right in your face. As long as I remember to hand them out at the shows then it will be a few bucks well worth the money LOL

Valentines Treasures

2011-01-14T05:02:00.001-05:00

Schlosser Designs: Tutorial Tuesday - Valentines Treasures

Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Kiss Boxes! 5 colors

2011-01-12T06:17:00.000-05:00

What an awesome freebie! 5 boxes, different colours - super easy to package up a sweet treat.

Don't Eat the Paste - Printable boxes, paper crafts, crafts, beads and recipes: Kiss Boxes! 5 colors

Candy twist box and gift tags

2011-01-08T04:15:00.000-05:00

Don't Eat the Paste: Candy twist box and gift tags- Christmas

Just Because...

2011-01-06T05:01:00.004-05:00

A very nice surprize greeted me a few days ago...

My sweetie is awesome - I'm such a lucky girl.

New Furniture...

2011-01-05T20:03:00.010-05:00

After many months of searching, we came across the perfect item to replace our buffet unit in the dining room. It was delivered this faternoon, along with 4 new chairs for our dining table. We spent some time putting things into the unit and moving items around.

Let me tell you, the room looks AMAZING!

...and yes, you are seeing our dining room in January of 2011, and yes it is decorated a la Halloween style. And Floyd is still sitting at the table with his hand on the bottle of rum!