tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352387015847117762024-03-12T21:58:02.800-04:00Put on Your ApronBriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-66424383365654985622011-01-05T10:38:00.003-05:002011-01-05T11:17:33.879-05:00Out to lunch...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCHMP-oMCxSw0FZJD5EwXhzliOKfIKfFHcvCmMy-dpTKgXhVYJ4dMq9r20LQr7X1aajNq8S547JZBHs8IPz-hKJ4wYmKGVAoo8yUyLA-GET773YOHZxKjdiPk4kXKYxURA4Bg3x__OicU/s1600/3903958138_3df941e8ca.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCHMP-oMCxSw0FZJD5EwXhzliOKfIKfFHcvCmMy-dpTKgXhVYJ4dMq9r20LQr7X1aajNq8S547JZBHs8IPz-hKJ4wYmKGVAoo8yUyLA-GET773YOHZxKjdiPk4kXKYxURA4Bg3x__OicU/s320/3903958138_3df941e8ca.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558726769897360210" border="0" /></a>So, I've been "out to lunch" these past two weeks. Absolutely got hit with the holiday tidal wave. And in the magazine world, it gets even more hectic because you still have to produce an issue in the same timespan as non-holiday-time. Same deadlines, less days in the office. Oof.<br /><br />What else. Oh, I've been cast in a new role as the lead blogger for this new craft social networking site that's launching later this month, CraftFoxes.com. You should totally check it out and sign up to be alerted to the official launch date. And I'm not saying this because I write for it, but because it's really going to be a cool, comprehensive source for anyone who has even a passing interest in crafty things. There will be tutorials galore, a list of craft stores organized by area (this is what I'm excited about, since there is nary--yes, I said nary--a Joann fabrics or anything in a 20-mile radius), easy-to-navigate posts, the whole shebang. So, <a href="http://craftfoxes.com/">sign up for CraftFoxes</a> here! And, of course, if you want to send anything over to my attention for editorial consideration, feel free to email me. I really am loving getting to know all the fabulous crafters out there, I've been making so many friends.<br /><br />I'm also doing all sorts of business-y projects relating to my etsy shop, which I will post more about in the coming days. I'm finding that the hardest thing in the world when it comes to having your own line of anything, isn't the production process. (Right now, I have that down to doing an assembly-line set-up, with cutting pieces one day, hemming the next, and so on.) It's organizing the whole business. Because it is a business. It's figuring out what sells and what doesn't, how you can better serve your customers, establishing a consistent look and changing your pre-conceived ideas of what you thought your business would be. Does that make sense? Like, I was pretty sure the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61050342/miss-november-pin-up-apron-chocolate-and">pin-up aprons</a> would be the main seller, but it turns out it was the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58616182/wonder-woman-inspired-pin-up-apron">Wonder Woman apron</a>, a kind of on-a-whim design.<br /><br />Let's see, what else...I was talking to my new e-BFF, Katie of <a href="http://lemonjitters.blogspot.com/">LemonJitters</a> (who has a fab new digital design blog, <a href="http://thecommonjar.blogspot.com/">TheCommonJar</a>), about how it's hard not to automatically compare yourself to other bloggers out there. You know, the ones who have mastered 100 different cool craft techniques, executing each perfectly, photographing them beautifully, selling a bajillion versions of their designs online, they blog everywhere, etc. etc. And it almost makes you want to give up, doesn't it? Well, it shouldn't. We forget that we're in a small corner of the internet where like-minded people convene. If it seems like everyone else is effortlessly fabulous, well, guess what? It's not really "everyone else". It's still just a small portion of the population, not the norm. So, deep breath, attitude adjustment. Stay positive and glamorous.<br /><br />-BBriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-63833455778025594762010-12-23T12:07:00.003-05:002010-12-23T12:14:06.266-05:00Better than Bows: Cupcake Paper Gift Toppers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZZtJ9V_rnPxFLaWfLlGuoSRP6fbxm2WJ_sqyi-FX2okbHFf0_zHMOIxKJLfGXM_rSyXO7ftqnDTQvhWd5dXDEHvkBp3xWkDtFDd9NxPakslKfTXrKGgPtaMTN3DHLMh_zt_AdaNjr2vH/s1600/17577_399554865396_534755396_10274873_7798078_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZZtJ9V_rnPxFLaWfLlGuoSRP6fbxm2WJ_sqyi-FX2okbHFf0_zHMOIxKJLfGXM_rSyXO7ftqnDTQvhWd5dXDEHvkBp3xWkDtFDd9NxPakslKfTXrKGgPtaMTN3DHLMh_zt_AdaNjr2vH/s320/17577_399554865396_534755396_10274873_7798078_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553925760062185330" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTFHdCFgFVnT14igy2Pa1lG1pV9KS7IDvCZvmuelQyl7_hdvlFWSpyiGSW2yOfgc0y0rFDJeBIbDK7Y1xjLN5wK2PI-tH7q6pdwiIAQ7dYj6miPLNlAhxXZgnvLjOdF9Dd-SM9EUAYe_K/s1600/17577_399554875396_534755396_10274874_7159739_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTFHdCFgFVnT14igy2Pa1lG1pV9KS7IDvCZvmuelQyl7_hdvlFWSpyiGSW2yOfgc0y0rFDJeBIbDK7Y1xjLN5wK2PI-tH7q6pdwiIAQ7dYj6miPLNlAhxXZgnvLjOdF9Dd-SM9EUAYe_K/s320/17577_399554875396_534755396_10274874_7159739_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553925663370417170" border="0" /></a><br />So, I was up until 2 am last night wrapping gifts, when inspiration struck to stick cupcake papers all over each present. This sounds ugly in theory, but the result (above) ended up looking lovely. I used these old holly-covered cupcake wrappers that I bought on super-sale after the holidays last year (the original idea was to use them FOR cupcakes, but then it occurred to me that it doesn't seem right to use holly-print things beyond Christmas).<br /><br />What you do is: Cover the area of the gift you want to decorate with double-stick tape. Then, take a wrapper, bunch it up at the bottom and stick it to the tape. Keep doing this until you end up with the giftwrap equivalent of a glamorous boa. Ta-da!<br /><br />-BrieBriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-76317147152093630092010-12-22T11:12:00.003-05:002010-12-22T11:20:04.018-05:00Holiday Messes...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkEhORg8Flc5NzhDY3q9gHhLaDiKKSw9GROOLAiftmJBuiwkhxlTGGoFykdXb2RhLu4dUjNaS188R6qJlUT_Cii-yyKpKdNaiJsnw75UZV0saIfkATjF3Wxv_Itj_7j8WS98GoVXvJJC9/s1600/Photo0001.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkEhORg8Flc5NzhDY3q9gHhLaDiKKSw9GROOLAiftmJBuiwkhxlTGGoFykdXb2RhLu4dUjNaS188R6qJlUT_Cii-yyKpKdNaiJsnw75UZV0saIfkATjF3Wxv_Itj_7j8WS98GoVXvJJC9/s320/Photo0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553540330262825954" border="0" /></a>In the middle of organizing gifts, sending out packages, wrapping presents, finding the ornaments, finding my tree (a lovely little white faux tree that is only just now going up today!), fulfilling apron orders, ordering even more gifts for people I forgot, working on articles (on-deadline!), working ahead on articles, planning menus for parties and somewhere, somehow, sleeping, the above mess happened in my studio.<br /><br />I'm totally into the holiday spirit and all, but I always have trouble keeping things neat and tidy during this time of year. I thought I was alone in this, some sort of yuletide failure, and got tremendously hard on myself...and then I read Pip's inspiring post on <a href="::%20Meet%20Me%20At%20Mikes:%20::%20My%20Perfect%20Life">how she has the same trouble </a>during the holidays. If Pip, blogging and crafting superstar has trouble keeping her sanity during Christmastime, then I can give myself permission to let myself go a little bit to the messier side of life, albeit temporarily. Everything will be okay, I keep saying...<br /><br />P.s. That ghostly halo in the corner isn't a spirit, but the light from my laptop. I used my new smartphone, which has the unfortunate tendency to make me feel not-so-smart, to take the photo.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-40889580397415644462010-12-14T12:02:00.003-05:002010-12-14T12:15:31.254-05:00Christmas Favor Idea: Tiny House Boxes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4F1SPLssv_safpKOztISC8gUC5ZTd0jaGXrafeRFV_uL4hHf21PpG2OR3X1QTbpsJlr7jvRcWcwztl1meFswlbOxYVVZI7CALusk7e1od8L_W3Ut9vBASySywTRVXSJGZos8hsvWpay3s/s1600/la102960_1207_cookiebox_l.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4F1SPLssv_safpKOztISC8gUC5ZTd0jaGXrafeRFV_uL4hHf21PpG2OR3X1QTbpsJlr7jvRcWcwztl1meFswlbOxYVVZI7CALusk7e1od8L_W3Ut9vBASySywTRVXSJGZos8hsvWpay3s/s320/la102960_1207_cookiebox_l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550584748409751890" border="0" /></a>Even though these <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/town-house-gift-boxes?backto=true">town house gift boxes </a>(from Martha Stewart, of course) are too charming for words, I will attempt to write about them anyway. The illustration-inspired containers are meant for cookies and such, but with a ribbon they also are keepsake ornaments. The free template is pre-illustrated, but if you'd like to do custom, just trace the box parts onto cardstock and take it from there. I was seriously thinking of doing this with houses inspired from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DinnerAtEight?section_id=7482494">my illustrations</a>, but then discovered that I have absolutely no time during this pre-holiday crunch. Between making aprons for orders, doing the whole "email everyone before they go on vacation" thing and trying to wrap up my gifts, I think I'm getting all of five minutes' sleep each night. It'll be worth it, I keep telling myself...<br /><br />Hang in there!<br />-Brie<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via <a href="www.marthastewart.com">Martha Stewart</a></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-70866179739400860812010-12-09T20:14:00.006-05:002010-12-09T20:22:42.512-05:00Coveted: Handmade Batik Pillow Covers<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibd_94TUJuDPofJ6m0zYrhlTfIAmy22Lev8CHxZn2DMzFd8pcZakRl-UtEYhTsI8ZKLhyphenhyphenVm5JZDb_WIX3mza4ShxCpDhNZhoq7nIXkPD0-3jz8HC0pCpa69te91vS1wCLu0x0IGjiHdG7t/s1600/il_fullxfull.189112723%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548856101148479362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibd_94TUJuDPofJ6m0zYrhlTfIAmy22Lev8CHxZn2DMzFd8pcZakRl-UtEYhTsI8ZKLhyphenhyphenVm5JZDb_WIX3mza4ShxCpDhNZhoq7nIXkPD0-3jz8HC0pCpa69te91vS1wCLu0x0IGjiHdG7t/s320/il_fullxfull.189112723%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a>I would say "How fabulous are these <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60698949/cushion-throw-pillow-cover-genuine-wax">batik pillows</a> from my etsy friend <a href="http://www.blogger.com/sisterbatik.etsy.com">SisterBatik</a>?" but that would be a completely rhetorical question--and not because you can't answer me. (Well, I guess you can via comments...but you get the point!) Because they're clearly individual works of art, for only $20 a piece. They're completely handmade, from each unique print to each individual stitch. Sigh. You can find them <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SISTERBATIK?ref=seller_info">here</a>.<br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Image via SisterBatik.etsy.com<br /></span></em><div></div>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-83036322725913498552010-12-07T13:54:00.002-05:002010-12-07T14:08:32.382-05:00Peek inside the new WSJ Magazine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F6oULnD3G5igXu-6hs4VdyGrazCq1LljaSS4H4NOK4w_dvDVNohyphenhyphenF3G0NmnAgN1NaDMUbtRzur4f7byLyflVcoJcP6vMBzf3fmWdqoVS2BC3mGixtbf-11Gxdwi0apT4fbmqEu1jsQnG/s1600/Screen+shot+2010-12-07+at+1.55.54+PM.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F6oULnD3G5igXu-6hs4VdyGrazCq1LljaSS4H4NOK4w_dvDVNohyphenhyphenF3G0NmnAgN1NaDMUbtRzur4f7byLyflVcoJcP6vMBzf3fmWdqoVS2BC3mGixtbf-11Gxdwi0apT4fbmqEu1jsQnG/s320/Screen+shot+2010-12-07+at+1.55.54+PM.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548016470010035650" border="0" /></a>When Domino magazine went away, it was a pretty big deal over in Magazineland (did you know I work there? Because I do. It's right near "PublishingIsDyingVille" and south of "PanicOpolis"). It was one of the earliest casualties of the shelter magazine folding epidemic of 2007-09. Admittedly, I had a soft spot for them since they kindly featured <a href="TheDrapery.blogspot.com">my old blog</a> on their website, way back when. In 2006. Which makes me feel Internet Old. But because of that mention, I got to have a career in magazine writing, and for that I'm endlessly thankful.<br /><br />I've since kept all of my issues, which I carefully read and sigh over.<br /><br />But luckily, Deborah Needleman found a fabulous job as editor-in-chief at the new <a href="magazine.wsj.com">WSJ magazine</a>. Above is a peek into the decor spread, a tour of Roxy Music front man Bryan Ferry's home. As you can expect, it's got that artsy-chic mix-and-match look that few can pull off. Like the above image of a paint-splattered chair, <a href="http://magazine.wsj.com/features/the-city-squire/tab/slideshow/">a gift to Ferry made by (and from) Rolf Sachs</a>. If I had this in my home, my apartment would take on a Hoarders-like feel. In his house, with this photography...it looks artsy and fabulous.<br /><br />Anyway, go look at <a href="http://magazine.wsj.com">WSJ</a> and enjoy!<br /><br />-BBriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-54225242528320791942010-12-04T11:18:00.002-05:002010-12-04T11:28:47.048-05:00Behind the scenes of an etsy photo shoot...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggOULsvCmWM62A7BSM5MkQaDDCiu-SLuTzDVe5nhDxbIQuPHSCakd5pDXHOsxlOpn458V8LI_napx2XZ9rlzZz1M8dp4CB01_v4wNg_Mb23ntyzMORLr2fhTRX-7nHC7liX7X261Lmn8mY/s1600/MilkglassDualCookie.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546862356332073890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggOULsvCmWM62A7BSM5MkQaDDCiu-SLuTzDVe5nhDxbIQuPHSCakd5pDXHOsxlOpn458V8LI_napx2XZ9rlzZz1M8dp4CB01_v4wNg_Mb23ntyzMORLr2fhTRX-7nHC7liX7X261Lmn8mY/s320/MilkglassDualCookie.JPG" /></a> I was trying to photograph a few milkglass items for my etsy shop when a certain cat named Cookie decided to jump into the frame. (She's not for sale, guys!)<br /><br />But you can see my little set-up that I use for photographing for etsy. I use a small table that I've layered with 2 fabrics--a heavy white canvas, then a sheer polyester-ish fabric (it's really dress lining material). Why two? The white canvas nicely smoothes the surface, then adds brightness to the sheer top layer, enhancing the blue hue. Next, I iron the fabrics on the table. Sometimes I will leave a crease in to help me position/align objects (these always get cropped out, of course).<br /><br />The table is placed by a south-facing bay window that I have in my kitchen. It's a shame because all the fancy architecture in my house--1920's molding, a marble fireplace, a huge front window with plantation shutters--is in the North-facing front side. Since I live in a brownstone on a narrow street, facing other brownstones, this room is in a perpetual Cavern of Darkness. Like the Motel 6 ad slogan, I always have to leave a light on in that room.<br /><br />Anyway, the only time I get crisp sunlight in the kitchen right now is between the hours of 2pm and maybe 3:30. This leads to me running around the apartment like a madwoman, muttering to myself about how I'm about to lose the daylight. That said, I always keep my props close by and do really simple vignettes like the one above, with vintage books.<br /><br />All that, and then a cat jumps into the frame.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-78660597343908166052010-12-02T15:09:00.003-05:002010-12-28T21:27:19.535-05:00Another freebie: Desktop Wallpaper<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXb8vvB4iIvzivmQVcAqQxPOIthwxj135RezcnxhY98GGAFMbN2kQ-M2NVIZzAYT3gLxEw20s4-GX6vTkQaYrynqVOUHzGnTsATQMg2LdnLijEddnCe2R1IbMQxdPp1uNgCNYDmAB8IsL/s1600/Dec%252Bcalendar%252B1200.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546179854618688690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXb8vvB4iIvzivmQVcAqQxPOIthwxj135RezcnxhY98GGAFMbN2kQ-M2NVIZzAYT3gLxEw20s4-GX6vTkQaYrynqVOUHzGnTsATQMg2LdnLijEddnCe2R1IbMQxdPp1uNgCNYDmAB8IsL/s320/Dec%252Bcalendar%252B1200.jpg" /></a>It's a wallpaper and a desktop, featured by my Etsy friend <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shrimpsaladcircus">Shrimp Salad Circus</a> and designed by Katie of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lemonjitters">LemonJitters</a>...and it's available to <a href="http://shrimpsaladcircus.blogspot.com/">download for free here</a>. Enjoy!Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-57080606002763348892010-12-02T15:02:00.003-05:002010-12-02T15:05:00.738-05:00Free downloadable gift tags<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fx3Yn9-bkpCfQE1dueTpeRZuwNiPsSS5SM0IRMlNus4gzXwG8Cp7n76W69MpD1br30sKdAvS-uaPKn022PZRjiu9mq-PngzjS9dGi-_tijJ3IEJSgx57ZAFeIHsQ74L9-qVVMc_ClaY6/s1600/Free_04_1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fx3Yn9-bkpCfQE1dueTpeRZuwNiPsSS5SM0IRMlNus4gzXwG8Cp7n76W69MpD1br30sKdAvS-uaPKn022PZRjiu9mq-PngzjS9dGi-_tijJ3IEJSgx57ZAFeIHsQ74L9-qVVMc_ClaY6/s320/Free_04_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546177956385815842" border="0" /></a>Etsy friend <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/graphicland">Irina</a> posted these vintage-cute gift tags, free for you to <a href="http://irinascutebox.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-gift-tags-digital-download.html">download here</a>. Enjoy!Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-31450716120416606532010-12-01T22:55:00.005-05:002010-12-01T23:00:37.428-05:00New shop update<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5CTUB01vS7JXUYsWwn63g3izJUeO_5jnkAUWG74w3AVo1TiOtB_BQbHU973_K47WZYdqq_E9fbrg978DTVWc1HzJeb74BvreZD1pz1iktqnSuX-Ishiyf17-erM4e48AjfD_PqyykhhR/s1600/Crocker+So-Good.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545929089556282066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5CTUB01vS7JXUYsWwn63g3izJUeO_5jnkAUWG74w3AVo1TiOtB_BQbHU973_K47WZYdqq_E9fbrg978DTVWc1HzJeb74BvreZD1pz1iktqnSuX-Ishiyf17-erM4e48AjfD_PqyykhhR/s320/Crocker+So-Good.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPDEi6R-zOxQ_8ETB_nNkGnhZNhZ0FpfGi9Ox7KG-zbU5YZSIx82ReURrqYQI86ulUqbKRf-mDOzqD-sv2qAFOYJIAUlKNTkSI6lTzUf6pgbR1q7qB1TlQaQtFKlDFKs88p9b2UOQ6oFI/s1600/MilkglassGroup.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545928905225700706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPDEi6R-zOxQ_8ETB_nNkGnhZNhZ0FpfGi9Ox7KG-zbU5YZSIx82ReURrqYQI86ulUqbKRf-mDOzqD-sv2qAFOYJIAUlKNTkSI6lTzUf6pgbR1q7qB1TlQaQtFKlDFKs88p9b2UOQ6oFI/s320/MilkglassGroup.JPG" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRnUMRWAV7mfAj0-_eViXgPlSrd0ALNQE9KmJFJxv21CjWmml6Ol1Txsu4s6CY2OgKVeDAV8WJUD7gto-cOvqT3iAz4ioU1D_lu4WWEIwEd7KwmZa8aaw7Yug5906FHPXPp2_I8whKMXk/s1600/BelleGlassesWhiteDual.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 210px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545928767958704962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRnUMRWAV7mfAj0-_eViXgPlSrd0ALNQE9KmJFJxv21CjWmml6Ol1Txsu4s6CY2OgKVeDAV8WJUD7gto-cOvqT3iAz4ioU1D_lu4WWEIwEd7KwmZa8aaw7Yug5906FHPXPp2_I8whKMXk/s320/BelleGlassesWhiteDual.jpg" /></a><br />It's always hard to part with things, but hopefully these vintage entertaining must-haves will find a happy home this holiday! From top: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63194984/vintage-so-good-meals-cookbook">Vintage So Good Meals Cookbook</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63433398/southern-belles-cooler-glasses-set-of-6">Southern Belles Cooler Glasses</a>, and a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63195703/vintage-milkglass-vase">Vintage Milk Glass Vase</a>.<br /><div></div></div></div>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-64436379862892300682010-11-30T16:55:00.003-05:002010-11-30T17:00:31.993-05:00DIY Gift Bags<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZl6CwhoqAEK1NhaZiq9uw6Re5AOW74FP2QwxCmFcnjseplE3Vy626J2AiHsW7nXUPM_3lqN5AQpM7leWn2ovxSREHmX68OKzcq_teFRLm1wR3uDchP7sKXSHWzyBkjnFNAiHmNjqI-cb/s1600/fathers-day-favor-boxes2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZl6CwhoqAEK1NhaZiq9uw6Re5AOW74FP2QwxCmFcnjseplE3Vy626J2AiHsW7nXUPM_3lqN5AQpM7leWn2ovxSREHmX68OKzcq_teFRLm1wR3uDchP7sKXSHWzyBkjnFNAiHmNjqI-cb/s320/fathers-day-favor-boxes2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545464769254182482" border="0" /></a>Okay, okay, I know these <a href="http://papercrave.com/diy-fathers-day-shirt-tie-gift-boxes/">adorable DIY gift boxes</a> were originally intended for Father's Day...but they would be so much fun to use for the holidays! There's a template involved so you can make it completely custom...but I think you could also make these from a store-bought gift bag, right? Just cut off the handle, snip a "V" shape into the top on either side and fold over to create the shirt part. Then add a bowtie. Ta-da!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Found via <a href="http://papercrave.com/">PaperCrave</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-52480455569137137782010-11-29T17:33:00.002-05:002010-11-29T17:37:48.192-05:00Cute winter craft: Felt pinecones!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOxaqZU6FXR07W0HqjyWKUXI2t8W32fAxwRmD2pyA6qM-XyE-dwf5OTSFmnAwAwvdiNrAcIJbopAevE23m0h0LLLnrNBKuWcm0Ss-Px6hZrexSvrKmf-1YfDJ5DK14uep4u7v8Jkt6U0V/s1600/FeltPineCones.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOxaqZU6FXR07W0HqjyWKUXI2t8W32fAxwRmD2pyA6qM-XyE-dwf5OTSFmnAwAwvdiNrAcIJbopAevE23m0h0LLLnrNBKuWcm0Ss-Px6hZrexSvrKmf-1YfDJ5DK14uep4u7v8Jkt6U0V/s320/FeltPineCones.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545103759174346738" border="0" /></a><br />I found this pretty little project in the pages of <a href="http://www.familycircle.com/family-fun/christmas/decorating/felt-holiday-crafts/">Family Circle's December issue.</a> I originally wasn't going to post it, because I thought that each individual bract was cut out--way too time consuming! But actually, the pinecone is made from little felt flowers, threaded onto a cut skewer. So much easier than I thought! I love the aqua/brown combo...Instructions (and template) are <a href="http://www.familycircle.com/family-fun/christmas/decorating/felt-holiday-crafts/?page=22">here.</a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.familycircle.com">Family Circle</a><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-59618922904501969392010-11-28T23:26:00.003-05:002010-11-28T23:31:46.509-05:00Wonder Woman-Inspired Apron Take 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbXOQ6BpaxNOBillln385sTsVdOWRPd0Ghr47H3yXLepK6mmJVczFgzNIkS_vR_y5Ip8EuZbR4AxTHGctXCWwo_S7WaIHFBONfyNycqQIJojrgVowuu8pobXfHTSLHEfp1JLohXnggfhNK/s1600/il_570xN_195412825.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544823732346716114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbXOQ6BpaxNOBillln385sTsVdOWRPd0Ghr47H3yXLepK6mmJVczFgzNIkS_vR_y5Ip8EuZbR4AxTHGctXCWwo_S7WaIHFBONfyNycqQIJojrgVowuu8pobXfHTSLHEfp1JLohXnggfhNK/s320/il_570xN_195412825.jpg" /></a> I forgot to show you <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62575683/wonder-woman-inspired-pin-up-apron-style?ref=pr_shop">this new version</a> of my popular <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58616182/wonder-woman-inspired-pin-up-apron">Wonder Woman-inspired apron</a>, when I added to my Etsy shop. This one was actually the first version I designed, before I got carried away with sassy sweetheart necklines (which I still love, by the way). This one has more of a traditional baker's apron look, and quite frankly, looks alot like a dress when it's on. And it can be <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62575683/wonder-woman-inspired-pin-up-apron-style?ref=pr_shop">yours for $26</a>. Hope you like!<br /><br />-Brie<br /><div></div>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-55257546222494099022010-11-24T12:00:00.003-05:002010-11-24T12:16:59.509-05:00A new twist on leaf votives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdauWslgNl-X5Rvkqx6D-o91WRkPbdvkNm6fuebNRpOSGiEl_25zeACcmmRxAMKI29cSpgrZ2f0ZfOTI3aIdCZCkHe1yROSBa20ss116AydcEJ1n2JwUliSNnVJ4SHvOxfmXtpYjJgWEH3/s1600/mini-leaves-l.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdauWslgNl-X5Rvkqx6D-o91WRkPbdvkNm6fuebNRpOSGiEl_25zeACcmmRxAMKI29cSpgrZ2f0ZfOTI3aIdCZCkHe1yROSBa20ss116AydcEJ1n2JwUliSNnVJ4SHvOxfmXtpYjJgWEH3/s320/mini-leaves-l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543162452676623586" border="0" /></a>I had an idea to do a few votive candle cups wrapped in pretty autumn leaves (like <a href="http://www.casasugar.com/How--Create-Festive-Tabletop-Votives-2485989">this idea</a> from Better Homes & Gardens, via CasaSugar) for my Thanksgiving table, but a glance outside tells me that I missed the boat on that whole "pretty autumn leaves" thing. The trees have nothing to offer up by pathetic little wisps of what used to be leaves. So, I pretty much forgot about that idea...until I saw this neat take on candle and leaf centerpieces, from <a href="http://www.sunset.com/home/decorating/natural-tabletop-decorating-00400000047582/page3.html">Sunset Magazine</a>. Though they used skeleton leaves (available <a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/copperleaves.html">here</a>), I could see this working with the "exhausted" leaves that are currently available from the aforementioned trees.<br /><br />Now, how to get them to stand up? You could secure each leaf to a skewer using a tiny bit of tape, then insert into a piece of Styrofoam. But then you'd have a big hunk of Styrofoam on your table. To cover that up, you can either paint it and cover the exposed sides with ribbon. Or, you can cover the foam (before you insert the leaves with something else), like <a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/moss3.html">artificial moss</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via <a href="http://www.sunset.com/">Sunset Magazine</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-86828561480794904932010-11-16T10:36:00.004-05:002010-11-16T10:46:40.114-05:00Inspiration: Cozy Rustic Kitchen<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBQjPO3G4YjGSOtXiohZKFGj0D8xNfoSKUHCQhMhETV9HofUEXaxYrlNluwuZlSV4CR_h5TAsUvkzeGxxVeR30-tLS7UHjzRdlb3t1KU9z8qef3RNtjqkgqbzdZt4MSv8krhBfJSq_Cma/s1600/newell-kitchen-l.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBQjPO3G4YjGSOtXiohZKFGj0D8xNfoSKUHCQhMhETV9HofUEXaxYrlNluwuZlSV4CR_h5TAsUvkzeGxxVeR30-tLS7UHjzRdlb3t1KU9z8qef3RNtjqkgqbzdZt4MSv8krhBfJSq_Cma/s320/newell-kitchen-l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540172178182165906" border="0" /></a>It's been raining for about two days straight now. Actually, raining isn't the right word...It's more like a dreary blanket of mist that envelopes everything, yet magically lifts at night, only to return right when I wake up. But anyway, this sort of weather has me longing to be curled up in a cozy kitchen, like the one above from <a href="http://www.coastalliving.com/homes/decorating/arts-crafts-00400000000923/">Coastal Living</a>. I usually don't go for a strong rustic look, but what I like here is the way the architects gave the kitchen island re-interpreted cabriole legs, painted white. It offers a jolt of modern style that lightens up the entire room. And it would be so easy to adapt this look to your home--just paint the legs of a table in a contrasting color. I'd even do it to a pedestal table, like Ikea's <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40072207">Liatorp</a> model.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via <a href="http://www.coastalliving.com/homes/decorating/arts-crafts-00400000000923/">Coastal Living</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-38542449468074606862010-11-10T10:16:00.003-05:002010-11-10T10:22:44.458-05:00How to fix up a paper lantern lamp<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSIdgb6sbXhox3f3__ObXtPORkfe84Se0BjWTThUokQz6Y1eNNbiRBraiOjSS1-xCrFwfkNAX4svCp-binMHE6xujd0opvVQQbAYENkLiHeHT3eLSeY2iVDFi4Rh6TCx8fEfkPDlE8YCW/s1600/6a00d83451dcff69e20133f1937441970b-pi.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSIdgb6sbXhox3f3__ObXtPORkfe84Se0BjWTThUokQz6Y1eNNbiRBraiOjSS1-xCrFwfkNAX4svCp-binMHE6xujd0opvVQQbAYENkLiHeHT3eLSeY2iVDFi4Rh6TCx8fEfkPDlE8YCW/s320/6a00d83451dcff69e20133f1937441970b-pi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537940376557127986" border="0" /></a><br />This is such a great idea, courtesy of the lovely gals at <a href="http://hamblyscreenprints.typepad.com">Hambly Screenprints</a>. They have the most adorable <a href="http://hamblyscreenprints.com/">online shop</a> filled with designer papers, overlays and other pretty little things. Here, they used a bunch of overlays to customize one of those ubiquitous Ikea paper lantern lamps. Just cut each sheet (I could imagine using tissue or any other sheer paper) to fit each side of the lamp, using glue dots to attach. More complete directions are <a href="http://hamblyscreenprints.typepad.com/screen_prints_blog/2010/06/ikea-lamp-hack.html">here</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via the <a href="http://hamblyscreenprints.typepad.com">Hambly Screenprints Blog</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-13177034431442518172010-11-09T15:08:00.003-05:002010-11-09T15:14:09.851-05:00For your Thanksgiving table: Leaf Placemats<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK91gkAZBTIXbGqWlL1JHeqktybv2BYRf8MI_Urt1t1475I10GWovli9sgribBqO2bEdSkgsDRTqbz1DKsD_b4vhsvfa6t9glWZEGVzJB7l8Imx2MxjIYUzBtp2-dBjHD6ucQksHwVsKT0/s1600/gt04marmsl_leafplacemat_l.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK91gkAZBTIXbGqWlL1JHeqktybv2BYRf8MI_Urt1t1475I10GWovli9sgribBqO2bEdSkgsDRTqbz1DKsD_b4vhsvfa6t9glWZEGVzJB7l8Imx2MxjIYUzBtp2-dBjHD6ucQksHwVsKT0/s320/gt04marmsl_leafplacemat_l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537644442035513378" border="0" /></a>Watching Martha Stewart's show always makes me feel a bit nervous (I think it's because of the newish format, with her trying to "learn" crafts from bloggers, or teach stars how to craft, too much tension there!) but occasionally she has a really simple idea that wins me over. Like these <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/foliage-place-mats">free-form leaf placemats</a>. She simply cuts them from ultrasuede, which won't fray on you (so you won't have to fuss with hemming), but I'd use felt instead. It's also no-fray and much cheaper, so I wouldn't feel as bad throwing them out if they get stained. Expanded directions are <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/foliage-place-mats">here</a>.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com">Martha Stewart</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-86237183650423983082010-11-08T15:23:00.005-05:002010-11-08T15:29:09.219-05:00Meet Miss November: The Apron<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WPmYQgnchlIv-yg138jSrmf_P4iEYjXZ7bG35C9SKdb6A29SrZ7mQ0RsaOh_O8-mlSYxf3_-0dd9daeULb4oTeJbAVsCtGLLMTaTBzcKdm1duddAIT4LXpwnemV6z4GpTWyYmYoZMIdR/s1600/il_570xN.190297750.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WPmYQgnchlIv-yg138jSrmf_P4iEYjXZ7bG35C9SKdb6A29SrZ7mQ0RsaOh_O8-mlSYxf3_-0dd9daeULb4oTeJbAVsCtGLLMTaTBzcKdm1duddAIT4LXpwnemV6z4GpTWyYmYoZMIdR/s320/il_570xN.190297750.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537277394665408386" border="0" /></a><br />Here's the newest apron available in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DinnerAtEight">my etsy shop</a>, which is from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DinnerAtEight?section_id=7495342">Women of the Year line</a>. Each month brings a new color combination along with a hand-embroidered award ribbon brooch. This month, of course, is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60445477/miss-november-pin-up-apron">Miss November</a>! The design is handmade in chocolate and white broadcloth, accented with a gold silk ribbon sash. Each apron also comes with a surprise vintage cocktail recipe.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-31901404899918383342010-11-04T11:48:00.002-04:002010-11-04T11:55:35.078-04:00DIY Lattice Wall<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsI2eq4UrAuwF48NQZwN_Aey4N0lycQ01rmGTN1gl9AYmSD16PFNk9GlK8NEwnBQe3f8kQZy1MEXj7YlR5P8vrVR5nuDB76KZQjAK4WeFnCCL-PA06tK6HxZa4LW20x2q3JGC0W8jfqZgN/s1600/1110RLhandywoman.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsI2eq4UrAuwF48NQZwN_Aey4N0lycQ01rmGTN1gl9AYmSD16PFNk9GlK8NEwnBQe3f8kQZy1MEXj7YlR5P8vrVR5nuDB76KZQjAK4WeFnCCL-PA06tK6HxZa4LW20x2q3JGC0W8jfqZgN/s320/1110RLhandywoman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535721962143132946" border="0" /></a><br />Do you remember that lattice wall craze that had a moment in the early 90's? I distinctly remember this on the only two home shows that were on back then, the Christopher Lowell show and the Lynette Jennings show. The backing wall would almost always be painted hunter green and the lattice would be either left natural (if wood) or painted white (or they'd use that plastic version). Extra decor points would be added for an...artful...flourish of fake ivy at the end. Ooh, or stenciled ivy somewhere, that was also pretty big.<br /><br />But anyway, here's a way, way more modern take on the lattice wall treatment, courtesy of <a href="http://reallivingmagazine.blogspot.com/">Real Living magazine</a>. (It's an Australian publication that looks a bit like Domino and has tons of ideas.) Here's the <a href="http://realliving.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8105735">DIY instructions</a>. It looks so nice when you paint the wall and lattice the same color, don't you think?<br /><br />Despite all appearances, it's pretty easy to do. You'd just need a buddy to hold the thing up while you screw it into your wall, but everything else can be cut to your specifications at the Home Depot or whatever home center you frequent. I'd love to see this in an entryway--mostly because it would dramatically increase the storage space in that dump-and-go zone.<br /><br />Photo via <a href="http://realliving.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8105735">Real Living magazine's MSN page</a>.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-620497619765135622010-11-03T10:04:00.003-04:002010-11-03T10:09:42.987-04:00How to use pumpkins past Halloween<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGTgB9LSEY5atYveDopfpv8zYCXjy_qfW6rmWLIG_Ti6W_ecboCrpH8YRadw66X4kfOf4QRESkUpZPKGAk_1kP54fNvqMwMV5ZrNrFrQPq4bHHEAF264t9mLJdsDM1nl3-D7gbO3s3dNB/s1600/halloween-pumpkins-craft-ribbons-fb.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGTgB9LSEY5atYveDopfpv8zYCXjy_qfW6rmWLIG_Ti6W_ecboCrpH8YRadw66X4kfOf4QRESkUpZPKGAk_1kP54fNvqMwMV5ZrNrFrQPq4bHHEAF264t9mLJdsDM1nl3-D7gbO3s3dNB/s320/halloween-pumpkins-craft-ribbons-fb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535324312069276818" border="0" /></a><br />Found while I was searching for more ribbon crafts (I have way too many spools lying around my work area and need something to do with them, they're too pretty to throw out, but of course they take up much-needed space), this <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/holiday-ideas/no-carve-pumpkin-decorating">cute centerpiece idea</a> from <a href="www.goodhousekeeping.com">Good Housekeeping</a>.<br /><br />Some people get a little narrow-minded about pumpkins and completely associate them with Halloween. But come on, nothing says autumn like cute little pumpkins! These ribbon-trimmed pumpkins would be perfect right now and into Thanksgiving.<br /><br />Image via <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com">Good Housekeeping</a>.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-9407695041233687962010-11-02T09:50:00.003-04:002010-11-02T10:02:15.165-04:00Election Day Rosettes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OHufM3F8ZdncqK6iQEQKZPnJCewHUv0zULMDD6fCdrVXso7JIHGVkXZ4kfV5YUF6HRAW1j0wMMtNBY-DYKp6UTFWRyY6oQsz-uwaNUF4hQSZBm8XVCG_pfNJjxZnckH9CBc6SYw-MU3t/s1600/PS-paper-rosettes.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OHufM3F8ZdncqK6iQEQKZPnJCewHUv0zULMDD6fCdrVXso7JIHGVkXZ4kfV5YUF6HRAW1j0wMMtNBY-DYKp6UTFWRyY6oQsz-uwaNUF4hQSZBm8XVCG_pfNJjxZnckH9CBc6SYw-MU3t/s320/PS-paper-rosettes.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534949576884848674" border="0" /></a>I get unusually excited about performing my civic duty during November elections and end up lining up at the polls before they open. (Not easy for someone who usually has to be bribed with baked goods to wake up at daybreak.) And yes, I do decorate for the occasion if I have people over to watch the results. I mostly enjoy being able to use the red/white/blue colors during Autumn, which allows me to forget the dreary winter that is looming. These retro rosettes, via the <a href="http://blog.paper-source.com/">Paper Source blog</a>, would be perfect for this evening's festivities. They'd be nice hanging in a window, cinched around napkins or attached directly to the wall (as if you were hanging plates, if that makes any sense). Directions are <a href="http://blog.paper-source.com/how-to/how-to-independence-day-paper-rosettes/">here</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Image from <a href="http://blog.paper-source.com/">Paper Source blog</a></span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-52737119111704136422010-10-28T10:53:00.003-04:002010-10-28T11:05:34.336-04:00Fab Organizing Solution: Pegboard<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-ck37BL3YssqEUEH2xISlS7cf37mDNHxGuaGKadyodUNbsRAYcAdXZ7_So_UPJhP17UvhnLU-ph-_fI8xSkXQlhJxfOShXw6R1R0L1F_ol7zUrbZjBQ-fU0XPc3ApPanPcwC4jO45dtS/s1600/apic9_lg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-ck37BL3YssqEUEH2xISlS7cf37mDNHxGuaGKadyodUNbsRAYcAdXZ7_So_UPJhP17UvhnLU-ph-_fI8xSkXQlhJxfOShXw6R1R0L1F_ol7zUrbZjBQ-fU0XPc3ApPanPcwC4jO45dtS/s320/apic9_lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533110192806257970" border="0" /></a>I've always been a huge fan of pegboard. We've used it quite possibly in every room of the house as part of our organizing features at the magazine. But personally, I'm the type of organizer who likes to see everything (which, I guess, doesn't sound like organizing at all, I admit!) in front of me, so pegboard fits the bill. You can hang pretty much anything on it, and once given a coat of paint it doesn't look so office-y.<br /><br />So anyway, I found a new twist on the standard pegboard set-up on <a href="http://www.craftstylish.com/item/47559/how-to-make-a-peg-board-to-organize-your-wedding-plans">CraftStylish</a>. Instead of inserting hooks into the holes, they thread ribbon through using a thick needle. Then, you simply clip up anything you want using clothespins. Though this particular project is used to organize wedding plans, you could use this easily for inspiration boards, bits of ribbon, invitations/pretty cards/not-so-pretty bills, etc.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via <a href="www.craftstylish.com">CraftStylish</a>.</span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-67475035475962558852010-10-27T14:03:00.002-04:002010-10-27T14:10:13.478-04:00DIY Sweet (ha-ha) Candy Dishes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_wVwvFzmYgjaYczzUJVBLdN8aDjhl30jH6oCrxzKtgsaOHxWWMxSsQOwMgp_s5hDrrCWhfmCGg3ENNZLfYStA-9Pj0EYf0whzcFV57RvzJgxoiyfLAoyE2zLcJOELtqMWikQuHxUlYg6/s1600/fabric_basket19_lg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_wVwvFzmYgjaYczzUJVBLdN8aDjhl30jH6oCrxzKtgsaOHxWWMxSsQOwMgp_s5hDrrCWhfmCGg3ENNZLfYStA-9Pj0EYf0whzcFV57RvzJgxoiyfLAoyE2zLcJOELtqMWikQuHxUlYg6/s320/fabric_basket19_lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532788295154845874" border="0" /></a><br />These generously-sized candy dishes featured on <a href="http://www.craftstylish.com/">CraftStylish</a> make perfect little favors. (Not to mention another good way to use up scrap fabric.) I'd do these in a rustic linen with a velvety orange ribbon tie for Halloween/autumn parties. It's very easy--just snip fabric, apply fabric stiffener and wait for it to dry. The name tag picks are made from paper, glue and skewers. Directions are <a href="http://www.craftstylish.com/item/46961/how-to-make-a-fabric-party-favor-basket">here.</a><br /><br />P.s. The creator of this craft is none other than Diane Gilleland of the fab <a href="http://www.craftypod.com/">CraftyPod podcast</a>, a must-listen for crafty business owners.<br /><br />Image via <a href="http://www.craftstylish.com">CraftStylish</a>.Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-36514311841853431002010-10-27T11:54:00.003-04:002010-10-27T12:01:09.480-04:00What's in your workspace?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgr6mGI9zlqIjU1n-ncCWG231JCHVgb-74CFpOyzGdFj4eAbL0nmiDEiEOe0BUGmG5bOIKIjLNXW0hDO4u27TiUR9zdPixHyiOhGg0SCg52tuGwkYYdMkbZNwBLrDrHu2bs97Uiik8b3i/s1600/il_570xN.178394842.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgr6mGI9zlqIjU1n-ncCWG231JCHVgb-74CFpOyzGdFj4eAbL0nmiDEiEOe0BUGmG5bOIKIjLNXW0hDO4u27TiUR9zdPixHyiOhGg0SCg52tuGwkYYdMkbZNwBLrDrHu2bs97Uiik8b3i/s320/il_570xN.178394842.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532754889975043842" border="0" /></a>For me, it'll soon be one of these, hung on my cubicle wall. Via <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/penelopewaitsshop">Penelope Waits' shop</a> on etsy. Otherwise, my work zone is relatively cluttered with work-type things and books, with the odd <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2753163763_ba0d51778c.jpg?v=0">vintage Asbury Park postcard</a> to add color and cheer.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Image via </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/penelopewaitsshop">Penelope Waits' shop</a><span style="font-style: italic;">.</span></span>Briehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835238701584711776.post-33252642180777708772010-10-26T21:17:00.004-04:002010-10-26T21:24:04.547-04:00New in my store...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYW9oSfZJyNTDmd1etsKObhOuHXu0uCToSlZ-rM10THnMvgBxWCrqKqYbd0VYv1sQhnJYZJz_4GW0nSQv0c6tV6p-Arvrd9oYdn6_AOHR__A-PW9RaOAMv_W70CtcxT9d83yNLwbT-MqS/s1600/arch2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532529029008676930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYW9oSfZJyNTDmd1etsKObhOuHXu0uCToSlZ-rM10THnMvgBxWCrqKqYbd0VYv1sQhnJYZJz_4GW0nSQv0c6tV6p-Arvrd9oYdn6_AOHR__A-PW9RaOAMv_W70CtcxT9d83yNLwbT-MqS/s320/arch2.JPG" /></a><br />Two new prints are up in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DinnerAtEight">etsy shop</a>. Each print, depicting an old-timey scene of (left) a row of brownstone-era buildings or (right) New York's Washington Square Arch, is pre-framed in a 5 x 7 black frame for your convenience. I originally rendered each in Prismacolor markers in a style vaguely related to M. Sasek. At $10 each, there is no absolutely excuse for that bare spot on your desk.<br /><br />-BrieBriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12902075946902661121noreply@blogger.com0