Shabby Vintage Mom

Coming Soon & Salvaged Vintage Scraps

2011-11-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

A few of these fun upcycled Jewelry Display Holders will be in my Shop.

I made the mistake of washing this vintage velvet bolster pillow cover in the washing machine. One survived, the other fell apart. I decided to keep the fabric thinking I'd use it for something{probably the rationale of a Hoarder}.

I also had this unfinished embroidered pillow case{a flea market find}. So this is what I came up with....

A comfy pillow. I also added dried lavender inside along with the stuffing.

Cute & smells great!

Creepy or Cute?

2011-10-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I last posted. I'm still alive, I've just been extremely busy. As my Grandpa used to say: "I'm as busy{or tired}as a one legged man in a fanny kickin contest." That pretty much sums it up!

Last weekend I picked up these old tattered dolls. Even though they're a crackled hot mess, I thought they were as cute as could be! I wasn't even sure what I'd do with them.

Now I do....the best $6 I've spent in awhile♥ They make great Halloween decor too :)

AWESOME Etsy Find:

When I saw this Mommy & Me Wrap set I was in love. Something about it was so familiar....

I guess it reminded me of this:

{Me and my Mom, in 1971}I remember not loving the outfit or the hair that day. Poorpitifulpearls version is SO MUCH cooler!!!

Show and Tell...

2011-08-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

Finally!! I've been patiently waiting, wanting{almost stalking}MadeByHank's Etsy Shop for years!

I finally bought one of her tough ruffles bags....and I love it!!

My Retrostiletto print arrived{I need to order a larger custom matting}it looks awesome framed!

Something else I recently bought was this antique Casket Plaque/Plate. For some reason I'm extremely fascinated with all things{vintage}Post Mortem. I have the ashes of a family member that have been sitting on a shelf, and this is what I had in mind when I saw the plaque:

I've been searching for awhile for an appropriate container for the ashes{yes, that's a film roll container, that's how they were given to me}I still haven't found one. I think the plaque makes a wonderful accent.

Sites to visit where you'll find interesting Post Mortem collectibles : Tear Drop Memories , Thanatos and Antique Photo Album.

New Etsy Favorite♥

2011-07-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

I found the Shop Retrostiletto on Etsy this morning{she also has a super cute Blog}. I bought this print for my daughters room. Luckily they're both too young to date, but when they do...this is the kind of boyfriend I hope they'll have{or that they'll want/expect/know they deserve to have}.
She'll also customize the colors for you{and it comes in 4 different sizes}. This is what she put together for me{below}I can't wait to frame it♥

Decor Inspiration on Flickr♥

1. Aqua Purple Chevron, 2. ye ol' nawfick: THE pink couch, 3. Pair of Pastel Paint by Numbers, 4. Mantel left, 5. mirrored in black, 6. Tresaures, Cahaba Heights, AL

I'd love to find a soft velvety vintage couch like that. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Latest Flea Market Finds

2011-07-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm buried in them. So, some I'll keep and some will go into my Vintage Etsy Shop.

How cute is she! I think she's supposed to be a fairy because she has wings and a wand.
Lots of vintage pennants, a quilt, chenille blankets, satin eiderdown, paintings...
and the cutest little lamp I've ever seen!

My brother and I were recently talking about the things we had as kids that we wished we'd kept. His was a huge collection of 7-eleven Baseball Slurpee cups from the 70's. After we got off the phone I started browsing Ebay and found these.

14 cups in a listing that was ending in two days...at 5:30 a.m.{good thing I like my brother}. He loved them. Thanks Ebay♥

What I've been busy working on for my Shop:

Now back to work :)

Collections, Projects & {yay}it's Summertime!!

2011-07-10T06:42:00.000-07:00

Finally a cuckoo clock for that open spot...

So, before I end up with more than I need{or have places to hang}I just might be able to give it a rest now...

or so I thought until I spotted this unbelievely cute clock on Etsy....Holy Cow, I've been fighting with myself for days on whether or not to push the Add to cart button :/ This is a project I've been forced into having to complete. I bought this beautiful vintage Eiderdown that arrived in excellent condition~ something you don't always expect to find since most are 70+ years old. So when I heard my daughter yelling "No Bear"! "Oh my gosh....MOM"!! I was pretty sure whatever it was, it wasn't going to be good.
I found my puppy sitting on top of it ripping it apart! He looked something like this, but with a face full of feathers almost saying "Huh....what"?? He's lucky I love him.
It's kinda hard to stay mad at him, he's really funny and has some pretty interesting quirks. This is his favorite way to sleep, we call it dead bug or junk to the sky pose~ it's so not an attractive look, but always makes me laugh when I see him doing it :)
I much more prefer his flat body Superman sleeping position.

One down, three to go! My oldest graduated from High School. Yay!!!
What a great day.

This is definitely my favorite time of year♥

Necessary{and unnecessary}new{old} finds♥

2011-06-10T08:19:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's just this time of year{prom, end of the school year, graduation etc...}but it feels like there are fewer hours in every day! So while I've been a little overwhelmed with the hecticness of life lately, somehow I've managed to find my way out into the world to pick up a few wonderful things :)

I've been long overdue for a bedspread. I tried searching on-line for something vintage{with no luck}and also tried looking at Department Stores for something new but couldn't find anything I liked well enough{probably because I prefer vintage}. The second I spotted this Bates Velvet Beadspread at an Antique Mall I knew it was the one~ it is soooo soft, comfy & velvety♥♥
I've also wanted{and needed}a stand mixer for a while now. I found this vintage Sunbeam Mixmaster last week for $10~ and it works!! I love it{even though it's not pink}and can't wait to use it.

O.K. I probably didn't need this vintage Cash Register{from The National Cash Register Co. Dayton Ohio}but somehow I left the flea market with it. Once I got it home I started thinking "What the heck am I going to do with this?" my kids were asking me the same thing! But after finding the perfect spot for it....I'm in love with the shabby timeworn rusty old thing!! It's great for holding magnets{for completed Memo Boards in my Shop}and the drawer is perfect for storing little things.

The tag under the register drawer is marked Fox Theater 1949 Los Angeles California, it might have been used inside this Theater??

I finally pulled this old hutch out of my bathroom because I needed something in my work space for storage.
There's nothing like taking a piece of furniture from one room into another and feeling like you've got new furniture :)

Boopsie Daisy....

2011-05-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

I've wanted a Boopsie Daisy doll ever since discovering the amazing Shop on Etsy a few years ago. So, imagine my surprise when I found not one but two of her dolls at a local flea market.

One of the dolls looked like it had been slightly damaged & was missing part of the hair decoration....

Since her theme was sewing I decided to add vintage buttons.....

Their new home...... I can't help but smile everytime I pass by them :)

If you ever need a mood boost just spend some time looking through her Flickr♥, it's like visiting an overflowing color filled quirky Candyland~ you have to see it to believe it.

New Print♥

2011-05-14T07:05:00.000-07:00

Last week I bought this Ferris Wheel Print from Jenny & Aaron{Everyday is a Holiday}. I couldn't get it framed and up on my wall quick enough.
It's even more beautiful in person. Everything about it is wonderful~ the colors, the amazing details, the retro feel.

It makes me want to decorate each and every room{including my boys room}in these beautiful candy coated colors!!!

Crazy for Cuckoo Clocks!

2011-05-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

I picked up another Cuckoo Clock at the Flea Market{my third}. I have no idea if they work or even how to make them work...I just love having them to look at :)

I can see how you can get carried away and start collecting a house full.
Some interesting Cuckoo Clock History

This is where it ended up. Now I need another mini clock for the empty space.

My latest finds:

5 pounds of vintage buttons:

Vintage gumball charms:

Somebody was really into collecting these cute little charms.

Weathered pink egg slicer

I have a new favorite Shop. I love what themodernmarigold creates with vintage linens.

Seriously cute!

Found, Free and Flea...

2011-05-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

I just pre-ordered this Book. It's released August 9th 2011, I can't wait to get a hold of it!!

Tereasa Surratt writes about how her husband convinced her that they should buy a derelict summer camp in Wisconsin, they had no idea the treasure trove they’d inherit with the property. While renovating the decrepit cabins at Camp Wandawega, they kept stumbling upon curious objects, some dating back ninety years or more: a Boy Scout patch, an old sled, a pristine set of Fiesta Ware, dozens of midcentury aprons, an untouched box of board games in their original packaging.

She knew the power that one mundane object has when grouped with its siblings. So rather than discard everything, she set out on a five-year expedition to turn the more than 150 found items into full-fledged collections.

What a wonderful World it would be....

2011-04-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

if we all had the nerve to do this. wow.

I'd love to see the look on my kids faces as they walked home from school with their friends, seeing me breakin it down like this guy. I actually have a pair of roller skates.....I'm seriously thinking about it. lol

On the Hunt...

2011-04-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

Oh how time flies... This is pretty much what I've been doing for the last month~ searching for vintage frames. I had some luck with a couple amazing larger frames{like the one above}but not so much with smaller frames. With our wacky weather here in California so many of my local flea markets have been rained out. I've shown up even when the vendors didn't~ I guess in hopes that they would. I've got my fingers crossed for this weekend, I'd love to walk away with an armful of frames like these :)

1. Frames, 2. Vintage Ornate Picture Frames, 3. "Rescue Me", 4. pieces, 5. Vintage Frame, 6. Ornate frame

Another exciting thing that happened last month was I was invited to place an Ad in Spoonful{a Zine}a short and inspiring publication. I was lucky enough to have the editor put together this ad for me.

I think she did a great job♥

The Ultimate Office/Studio

2011-03-10T05:08:00.000-08:00

Holy cow, I think my heart stopped when I saw this unbelievably cool 1950's Airstream for sale. If I could have this in my backyard, I would be the happiest girl in the whole world!!!
Can you imagine how beautiful it could be with a little work???

{{source}}

This would be me, enjoying a nice quiet dinner...... {{source}}
Me again, taking it on a little road trip. Seriously, look at all the fun I'd have. {{source}}

Have you ever heard of WonderCraft??
Well this is the inside of their Airstream traveling studio Stella. Possibly the coolest Company/idea ever!!!!!!

Is this not the most beautiful image ever. I imagine that this is what heaven looks like♥ ♥ {{source}}

New Favorite Shops and helpful Blog tips...

2011-03-05T07:47:00.000-08:00

Every once in awhile I find an on-line Shop that I absolutely love. Here are three that I've been drooling over lately. The Shop KookyKrafts is filled with the most quirky & fun handmade crafts~ you have to see it to believe it.
{{kookykrafts}}

I've mentioned my love for bunting/banners before~ but this one is awesome...everything about it screams Carnival, fun & summer{well at least to me it does}. I'm crazy about it! This photo doesn't do it justice, you have to stop by the web-site to get a good look at it :)
{{Tea Pea}}

I'm truly impressed with this Shop. They way she takes vintage salvaged jewelry pieces and pairs them together is amazing. I can click-click-click through her listings all day. Love, love, looove MaryBakerLovesYou♥♥♥
{{MaryBakerLovesYou}}

Helpful Blog Tips♥
Have you ever wondered "How can I make my photo's larger?" or "Is there a way to hide that Navbar at the top of the page?".... well I had and luckily found these two Blogs that give you step-by-step instructions. Here & here. Wooo hooo~ yay for helpful bloggers!

Hidden Treasures

2011-02-27T05:53:00.000-08:00

I spotted this old tattered tin{just the way I like them}yesterday at the flea market. It was kind of hidden under some stuff, maybe that's why no one had snatched it up.
When I picked it up it was pretty heavy, I thought to myself "please let there be buttons in here"....
when I opened it up, this is what I found :)
wonderful old vintage buttons♥ You can never have too many{{I wonder if that's what hoarders think to themselves~ yikes!}}
I would have been happy with just the tin, the buttons were just a bonus. Here's some really cool History about the Ward Baking Co.

Oh the things I'd buy....

2011-02-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

if there were no bills to pay. I love Silhouette anything and everything♥
{somethingshidinghere}

{littlecherryhill}

{lelise}
{sparrowandspice}

{TabbyCat13}
I just signed up for a free month of Netflix. One of the first movies I watched{probably for the 7th or 8th time}is my all time favorite Kramer vs Kramer

I don't think I've ever watched it with out crying... such a tear jerker.

New Fabric= Inspiration

2011-02-19T14:58:00.001-08:00

A couple weeks ago I ordered some fabric on-line. At the time I wasn't totally sure what I was going to do with it, but I was in the mood to buy pretty fabric!
I thought I'd make a few Magnetic Inspiration Boards for my Shop. It's been awhile since I made this style{I've been making chalkboards & pin/cork boards lately}. Before I opened my Etsy Shop{back in 2007}I looked around to see if anyone was making anything similar: they weren't, it was just me{actually I wasn't sure if anyone would know what they were or if I'd even sell one}. Now, there are almost too many to count{which is a little discouraging}. But....
I do enjoy making them, and I don't want to put time and effort into something I don't enjoy doing. Here's the first one with my new fabric, I love this floral print!
....and I used to vintage jewelry I picked up last week at the flea market for the magnets. With the left over fabric I might make a couple pillows~ I think I'm in the mood to sew :)

Not what I was looking for...

2011-02-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

Every weekend, rain or shine I head out to the Flea Market. I'm usually just there to pick up vintage frames, mirrors or windows. As usual I come across things I just can't pass up. This weekend I had zero luck with frames, but here are a few things I did find.
Some will go into my Vintage Shop, some given a face-lift and some I'll keep :)

These vintage lamps are going to look incredible once they've been upcycled.
My favorite find, this beautiful vintage mustard seed necklace. My 98 year old Grandmother wore one similar for as long as I can remember, now I think of her each time I wear it♥
Our puppy is getting bigger by the day. He is the sweetest little man with the best personality. He's the reason my alarm clock no longer wakes me up. He and I spend every morning{and by morning I mean 3 & 4 a.m.}going through our/his routine: 2 or 3 trips outside to go potty, eating breakfast and dragging out each and every toy~ plus a shoe someone forgot to pick up.
Although I love starting the day with him, I'm looking forward to the day he sleeps in til at least 5:30 a.m.!

Shop Make-Over

2011-01-30T05:37:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to having my Shop Banner re-done. I think it turned out great! I mentioned way back here where my inspiration & image came from.
I also decided what to do with the Spoonflower fabric I created{there's a link at the end of this post if you're thinking about making your own fabric}.

I finally picked up my first Head Vase. After years of admiring them I found her at the flea market{and for only $3}looks like this is the beginning of a new collection!

Vintage Bakery Decor

2011-01-25T05:55:00.000-08:00

1} inkpainter
2} LapineOurs
3} haoli
4} plaidponyvintage
5} pinkchicboutique
6} LucyandEthel
7} pinkpearlstudio
8} MyMomsStuff
9} KipJohl
10} Vintagegoodies
11} bellalulu
12}CarolesVintage

{{Source}}

I hold JennyHoliday completely responsible for my obsession with this {eye}candy coated retro decor, her style is a mix of vintage collectibles & sweets.
I bought this Postcard in her Etsy Shop a couple years ago, it's been hanging in my Kitchen ever since{ I attached it to a block of wood & added a hanger to the back}. I've been drooling over her Shop looking forward to adding more of her amazing work to my kitchen walls♥

After....

2011-01-17T06:16:00.001-08:00

Here are the frames from my last blog post. What a difference a little paint can make♥

I picked this portrait up this weekend at the flea market, vintage portraits are one of my favorite things to find.
She's hanging in my hallway, the colors really brighten up the wall!

Flea Market Finds...

2011-01-15T12:24:00.001-08:00

I'm always surprised when I stumble onto vintage Syroco frames, and finding three in one day is pretty good! I keep thinking they're can only be so many left in the world, but I'm hoping not to find that out any time soon. I'm getting ready to give them all a face lift, possibly a Chalkboard or just colorful upcycled Mirrors???I also picked up this awesome vintage Lady Baltimore Suitcase. It's going to be beautiful once it gets a good cleaning.

Two things I learned about my puppy this week. 1). He loves to sleep{usually under my feet whether I'm on the computer, doing dishes or sitting on the couch}.

2). He really likes to dig. And he's pretty good at it.

It's cute now but I'm thinking it might not be so cute when he's full grown. Do you let a puppy dig, or am I supposed to keep him from digging????

Short lives...

2011-01-13T05:41:00.000-08:00

My kids recently lost two friends, one a 16 year old girl{hit by a car while walking to school} and an 18 year old boy{he took his own life}. Within a month they attended two funerals. Every time I hear this song it makes me think of them and their families. It's a beautiful song, but one that's tough to listen to.

When I start to get irritated at my kids for something they did or didn't do{like my 16 year old who daily sheds his clothes leaving them randomly around the house{the kitchen, living room, the hallway, my room etc...}I think to myself "at least he's here for me to be picking up after". I can't imagine the heartache and sadness their parents must be going through.
{{by: kikicomin}}

I'll get back to posting about a few of my latest thrifting/flea market finds, but this is what's been on my mind lately....

A new member of the family...

2011-01-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

This is what I've been up to lately. We just adopted this cute little guy, pretty soon to be a cute BIG guy{he was 12 pounds at six weeks}. He's so sweet, lots of fun{also a lot of work, which=little sleep}. We're slowly settling into a routine, I've actually been able to get some work done but that usually includes him under my feet.
I forgot how much I love puppy breath♥

I picked up a few afghans this weekend at the flea market for his bedding, I think he's happy with them :)

Red Wall Decor♥

2010-12-20T17:35:00.000-08:00

This Photo was the inspiration behind me painting....
{Flickr source}

...this vintage mirror Red.
I love how the mirror in the Inspiration photo stands out against the aqua wall.

We've had almost three days of solid rain. It's been about 5 years since Southern California has seen a lot of rain. I think our lack of sunshine lately has me craving color and brightness.
I'm not sure how people in Seattle do it!???

Paying it forward...

2010-12-09T08:45:00.000-08:00

My daughter has been wanting a pair of "TOMS" shoes for awhile now. I didn't see how paying $44 for a pair of canvas shoes was reasonable{especially when you have four kids}but after purchasing these on-line for her for Christmas and seeing what their Company does for needy children, I'm really glad I did :)

With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One. Very COOL!

Flea Market Finds....

2010-12-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

Sometimes my trip to the flea market pays off. Here are a few of my latest finished projects.

Before

After

One of my favorite upcycled vintage Italian Mirrors, I think it turned out beautiful. It's on the way to it's new home♥

Upcycling Thrifted Finds

2010-12-07T05:49:00.000-08:00

I picked up this tabletop Mannequin last week at a Thrift Store. I knew it would make the perfect Jewelry display/holder with a little dressing up.
Supplies used:
fabric
fabric glue
scissors
lace
velvet ribbon
vintage jewels & buttons
millinery flowers
paint
{all things I already had}

First I painted the base a glossy black.

Then I cut fabric in random shapes and sizes forming it{brushed with glue} to the body until it was completely covered.
I added lace to the bottom, velvet ribbon around the waist, jewels & buttons creating a brooch. I also added a few extra touches: buttons down the back, extra jewels dangling at the waist & topped with millinery flowers.

My Inspiration.
This fabulous vintage tabletop mannequin was in the Summer issue of Where Women Create. Since seeing this article I've been trying to figure out how I can take found vintage objects and turn them into a functional display piece similar to this one. I love the idea of using it to display your photo's~ brilliant!! I'll continue to wrack my brain until I figure it out.

Spruced up Wall Art

2010-12-01T13:51:00.000-08:00

This might look familiar, I posted about it here. I almost forgot about it after storing it in my hutch almost a year ago~ then I came across it yesterday. Wow what a difference a little paint makes. It's dated: 1970, who knew felt was popular back then.
F E L T on Etsy:
{Wreath By: KnockKnocking} LOVE her Wreaths!!

{Wallflowers By: LilacSaloon}

{Birthday Crowns By: drfeltgood}

{Catnip Cat Toys By: OhBoyCatToy}
I'm amazed at what people can do with Felt :)

This was something fun. I've mentioned before how I love Spoonflower, well a few weeks ago I decided to use my own image and have a swatch made. Since I wasn't sure how it would turn out I only ordered a swatch.
I think it turned out pretty nice. With a few tweaks I'll be ready to order a yard or two.
Now I find myself looking a things around the house and thinking "Oh, that would look nice as fabric"....this could get expensive!

Recycling Project♥

2010-11-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

This beautiful Syroco frame was on it's way to the trash can when I decided I needed to try and save it. After an unfortunate accident I was left with this broken mess.
It was originally this amazing framed mirror.
Now it's a decorative Jewelry display holder{with some help from my glue gun}.
Definitely worth saving!

My Inspiration

2010-10-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I found this drawing at my Brothers. I don't remember seeing it before, but he said it was a drawing of our Mammo{my Grandmother} done by her art teacher. My Grandmother was an amazing painter and I believe she took art classes as a hobby. I remember seeing pictures of her with her paintings placing first & second in different art contests.
Since my brother hadn't hung it up and felt bad about it just sitting in a stack of artwork he said I could borrow it, but he wanted it back. We're both alike in that the only thing left of our family{that's passed away}as far as belongings that matter to us are sentimental things like: old photo's, artwork and maybe a few trinkets. So for now it's hanging on my wall.
This is a picture of my Mammo and Pappo sometime in the 1940's, they were probably in their early 20's there. They were the best Grandparents, and such a great looking couple too!!
I've been thinking about updating or redoing my Etsy Shop logo/brand and thought how perfect would it be to incorporate the drawing image of my Grandmother. Since I know nothing about taking what's in my head and turning it into what I want on the computer, I asked my brother who's a Graphic Artist if he could do it. He couldn't have made it seem more simple.
I knew I wanted the image inside a frame, so I sent him a picture of a vintage frame that I had sold in my Shop.
Very cool! He's amazing.
I know this stuff is a no-brainer to him~ he's created video games, done artwork on Album covers and so many other unbelievable things I couldn't even begin to explain, but I couldn't do this to save my life.
Now all I need to do {{with a little help of course}} from one of my favorite Etsy designers is put all of my ideas together.

Flea Market Keepers♥

2010-10-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

Lately all the ornate framed mirrors I've found have been upcycled for my Etsy Shop, but this one I'm keeping. It might get painted down the road, but for now it fits perfectly here in this spot the way it is♥
How cute is this Sailor boy{or girl- I'm not sure because of the longer hair}?? Whenever I come across poseable Japanese dolls I have to grab them since they're a pretty rare find.

A new favorite portrait. It looks like it was done with chalk, dated: 1943. A few of my kids say she looks like a ghost, my brother said she looks like Lindsey Lohan with dark hair. Of all the things I collect~ Vintage portraits are my favorite. It always has me wondering what the story is behind the people and why aren't they handed down to family members?? because I know she was someone's daughter/sister/aunt or mother. I'm happy she's mine now :)

A few projects I'm working on{{Upcycling}}right now. Beautiful ornate vintage Syroco Mirrors & Shelf
Back to work!

What I'm loving on Etsy right now...

2010-10-11T16:01:00.001-07:00

Lately I've found some of the cutest things that I'd love to buy. I'm in the process of saving for school{which starts in less than a year}and unfortunately buying and saving doesn't go together :( But if they did, this is what I'd buy:

{by:thestorybookrabbit}

{by:treepartydesign}

{by:littleteawagon}

{by:Pinkytoast}

{by:simplymeart}

{by:MintyFreshFusions}

We'll see how I do~ but I can already see that plate hanging on my wall!!!

Finally Organized

2010-10-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been about a month since I posted a before picture of a corner of my messy work space.
Yikes what an unorganized mess!
I started by framing a few of my favorite prints{The Black Apple, Pinky Toast and Danny Brito}. I've got plenty more wall space to fill, I just haven't had the time to shop for more prints.
A while ago I moved my sewing machine into my Bedroom thinking I'd do more sewing. It was a nice thought but I rarely used it.

Ahhhhh this feels so much better. I'm hoping to get a lot of sewing done here :)

Fun Desserts~ Cake in a Jar!

2010-09-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

These are always fun to make, my 7 year old daughter loves to help put them together. We were going to my brothers for dinner & I wanted to bring dessert. I've made cake in a jar a few times before, usually when it's someones Birthday and we're meeting at a Restaurant{way more convenient than bringing a cake}that way everyone gets their own jar and they can take theirs home if they want.
I usually just use cake, pudding, and frosting, but you can mix it up and add whatever you'd like.
Layer~ Cake, pudding{usually I make my own}, frosting, cake: repeat, however many times it takes to fill your jar.

I found this recipe over at Instructables, where you actually Bake cakes in little jars!
These are great if you don't have the time to make them yourself or you want to send something sweet to a friend or yourself :)

Getting back on track....

2010-09-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

Or at least trying to.
Now that everyone's back in school trying to figure out what to do with all my free time has been my biggest problem. Cleaning, crafting, organizing, shopping, cooking ~ it seems like that six hours f l y s by!

This cute little Shop was the last stop in our search for Cupcakes this summer.
It ended up being our favorite. I wish I had taken some pictures of the inside, but it was pretty tiny & crowded~ if I didn't think my kids would have died of embarrassment I would have taken some :)
Y U M!!

My Spoonflower swatch arrived~ SO cute, I love it!!

Here's a few things I've picked up lately:
I don't know what this Cup/Mug was originally intended for because of the lid{maybe a sugar bowl??}. It says: POP and has little pastel buttons all over with a bow on top... humm, whatever it is I love it :)

A pink vintage wooden hanger with little blue birds♥♥
I've been searching for the Dad to the Sunshine Family....
Although he's close, I think he's more of the 70's Swinger version.
He'll do for now.
I thought this would be perfect by the computer to hold pens and scissors, since I usually can't find either when I need them.
This cluttered hot mess is an area in my work space. I'm trying to simplify and organize my space better, making it more functional. Nothing about this picture makes me want to get crafty. It's my Before picture, hopefully I'll have an After picture later this week.

Do you Spoonflower???

2010-08-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

If you don't{or haven't}you should. Spoonflower is probably one of my favorite places to buy unique fabric. The variety is the best part about the site{as you can see from the photo's below}. Right now they're offering a Free Fabric Swatch~ for the next 24 hours{ends noon August 27th}. So if you ever wanted to check out the quality of their fabric but didn't want to spend the $$$, go here to get your free Swatch~ I did :)

1. Target Practice Detail, 2. bebes!, 3. Squirrel design, 4. Spoonflower Fabrics!

A Favorite Artist...

2010-08-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

This is the second time I've ordered from the super talented artist PinkyToast. Unfortunately they've been gifts for others. I had to snap some photo's before wrapping them{actually they were already wrapped when I realized I hadn't taken any pictures of them, so now I need to re-wrap them}.
They're even better in person~ the colors are amazing.
I love how they look in these frames. Normally I use vintage frames, but since they're a gift{and I didn't have any the right size}I picked these up, and think they look beautiful.
I could have her artwork all over my house♥

Happy Mail and New Projects

2010-08-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

I ordered this pack of pastel Bakers Twine on Etsy the other day{from bellacreationz4u}, it's almost too pretty to open and use.
Nothing dresses up a package like pretty twine, especially against plain paper. There's so many fun things you can do with it.
1. baker's twine, 2. Personalized Stationary, 3. Untitled, 4. Pretty Polka Dots, 5. Pink Scalloped Edge Gift Tags, 6. air mail kit, 7. Orders Out, 8. Key to the Treasure, 9. Flag Garland Package 1

Here's something I recently finished. I've had requests in my Etsy Shop for Cork boards{usually my boards are magnetic, but I guess some people prefer to be able to pin things to their boards} so here's a version I came up with using two fun ornate frames.
I have lots of projects waiting to be started, and a few ideas I'm looking forward to trying. I feel like I've had the summer off, and now I'm going back to work♥

Upcycled Flea Market Finds

2010-08-16T07:05:00.001-07:00

This has become a new addiction of mine. In the past when I've found a vintage framed mirror I would automatically turn it into a chalkboard or memo board. Now I love taking ornate mirrors and upcycling them~ turning them into colorful wall decor.

I found a box of these old drawer pulls that I knew would look much better painted....
Way better!!
A few of my favorite Flickr Upcycled Creations:
{Beautiful Reconstructed skirt from vintage fabrics}So pretty!
{Upcycled Vintage Train Case}LOVE this!
{Upcycled Umbrella Dog Raincoat} LOL, how cute is that(love his face)! What a great idea.
{Upcycled Vintage Brooch}Beautiful!

Here are a couple of my latest Flea Market Finds:
{Vintage paper lanterns & pom poms}
{Vintage cat eye glasses}

I have more to share but my camera batteries died, I'm up to my ears in back to school shopping and school registration. 13 days til everyone's back in school, peace and quite for a whole 6 1/2 hours a day, five days a week. woo hoo! I know I'm not the only mom who's excited about this :)

It's almost over.....

2010-08-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Summer, that is. Although it's my favorite time of year and I love having my kids home, I can't say I'm not looking forward to everyone going back to school. I sure do miss the sound of nothing{peace and quiet}.
I also realize there will only be so many more summers left until my kids are grown and gone. That's what I remind myself of when things get crazy{and I've heard "MOM" yelled for the thousandth time in one day}.

I'm not sure what I'll do with all my free time? Hopefully not spend too much time on sites like Stumbleupon.com{that's where I found this video~ Oh Boy!!}

I'm hoping to get lots of work done{fill up my Shop} and spend time going through all my Bookmarked tutorials getting crafty!

Flickr Dream Home♥

2010-08-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

I could spend the day browsing Flickr. It's my favorite place to find inspiration. I would be so happy living inside this little{make believe}home♥
{{Home Sweet Home}}
{{The perfect Kitchen}}
{{Living Room~ Wow!}}
{{and WOW!!!}}
{{Bedroom}}
{{Beautiful Sunroom}}
{{Bathroom}}
{{View out my window}}
That's what my dream home would look like. Now, something inside my house is getting painted aqua/turquoise today!! I don't know what but those pictures sure make me want to start painting.

Cupcake Outing #2

2010-07-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Can a Cupcake ever be too rich or too big?? Well, I never thought I'd say this, but yes & yes!!
{{Cupcake Print}}

They were huge & really rich! It seriously took two days for us to finish them.
We're skipping this weeks Cupcake outing, I think I'm still full from last weeks trip. I found two website's that have some of the best, easy to follow cupcake recipes. They seem very do-able, even for someone who might not be the best baker{that would be me}. Cupcakerecipes.com and Easy-cake-recipes.com.

But before we can start baking cupcakes from scratch, I think I really need this:
So shiny, pink and pretty!! I love it :)

{{The sweetest dream Print}}

Documentary

2010-07-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last night I watched "Homeless: The Motel Kids of Orange County" on HBO. I'm having a hard time thinking about anything else right now. It was heartbreaking hearing the kids talk about their experiences. One of the most ironic things was that they were living in a Motel across from Disneyland, "The Happiest Place on Earth" and most if not all had never been inside. This is all taking place about 15 minutes from where I live. I know this is a problem across the United States, but it sure hits home when it's happening just down the road from you.

Trailer

As a parent I can't imagine anything worse than being in that situation.These are working parents, living paycheck to paycheck but not making enough to afford an apartment or house. A quote from Director Alexandra Pelosi: "What people don't realize is that the recession made a lot more people homeless in America. This film could have been made in any zip code in America. Homeless is no longer what you thought it was. It's not a mentally-ill drug addicted hobo begging for change on the street corner. It's the people working at Wal-mart, Disneyland, Home Depot-working at minimum wage jobs across America".
Very eye opening. Makes you grateful for what you have. If you feel the need to do something, you can help here and here.

Giveaway Winner....

2010-07-24T18:53:00.001-07:00

Thanks to everyone who left a comment about the Giveaway. My daughter has been asking me when I was going to do another giveaway because she likes to put all the names on little pieces of paper & pick the winner. So she did, and the Memo Board is going to: Marcy Thanks again to everyone for your interest in my little giveaway :)
This ratty old old vintage{possibly antique}cat is my latest favorite flea market find. There was something about him that wouldn't let me pass him up~ his nose is too cute!
I also found this frame, and turned it into an Inspiration Board for my Shop. I've been sick for the past couple days so I'm surprised I've done anything at all. I think I'm going to crawl into bed and watch movies. Have a great weekend!

Magnetic Memo Board Giveaway....

2010-07-21T09:58:00.001-07:00

I recently hit 500 sales in my Etsy Shop, so I wanted to celebrate by doing a Giveaway! I truly appreciate every customer because it allows me to be a stay-at-home-Mom~ which is really the most important job in the world :)
I decided to take this fun Magnetic Memo Board out of my Shop{it had 28 hearts, so maybe someone who ♥'ed it will win}.
☛☛ Frame: Painted white and paired with the CUTEST fabric~ Love Fiesta Banner print.
☛☛ Measurements: 12", with 9 1/2" inner magnetic area.
☛☛ Comes with two vintage button magnets, ready to hang.

No hoops to jump through, just leave a comment{closes Saturday July 24th 10 a.m.}and I'll randomly pick a winner{{International friends included}} I'll announce the winner sometime Saturday. Just make sure I have a way of contacting you :)

Cupcakes♥

2010-07-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

We love cooking/baking/food Shows. Our new favorite Cupcake Wars! I love that there are Cupcake Shops, not bakeries with a few cupcakes~ but actual shops where you can go just for Cupcakes! I looked up local Cupcake Shops{not hard to find, they seem to be popping up everywhere} and decided we'd visit one a week this summer :)
We started here: Frosted Cupcakery in Belmont Shore.
Cute shop♥
Yum............
Then off to the Beach to walk off the Cupcakes :)

SO true!!! {{Print by: YeeHaw}}

Aqua ♥

2010-07-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, I love this color. I think I have Aqua on the brain! Every time I go to paint something, it ends up aqua/baby blue/turquoise{what ever color you want to call it}. I'm going paint shopping this week and really need to pick out a variety of colors~ all not related to the color blue.
{{Home Decor in my Shop}}

There is something so calming and happy about these colors...

{{source}}
{{source}}
{{source}}
{{source}}
{{source}}

Etsy Eye Candy:
1} County Fair Print 2} Retro Ice Crusher 3} Vintage Pillow Cases
4} Transistor Radio 5} Whimsy Print 6} Vintage Scale
7} Vintage Glass Set 8} Let them eat Cake Print 9} Beach Print

Ahhh, makes me want to paint the walls Blue!

Vintage Dolls

2010-07-08T21:27:00.000-07:00

If you were born in the late 60's early 70's then you probably remember Ms. Beasley. She was from the T.V. show Family Affair. I loved that show, and even had my own Ms. Beasley{not sure what ever happened to her} . I've kept an eye out for another one over the years, checking ebay every once in a while~ but she's a collectible and the auctions get pretty expensive $$$.
Last weekend while at the Flea Market looking for frames I spotted her!! I almost didn't even ask how much because I assumed it would be a ridiculous amount. So I asked, "How much for the doll"?{like I had no idea who or what she was} he said: "$9" I said: "how about $5"? I don't know what I was thinking because I usually don't do that, especially if it's something I really want!! He said: "fine, $5" What??? Wow!!!
Now I need to find her glasses!
Me on my 4th Birthday{1971}opening another one of my favorite dolls: Drowsy Baby. I have a slightly different version of my original{above}
Now if I could get my hands on a Blythe Doll, I'd be really happy!! I won't hold my breath, I think they're possibly the most collectible doll in the world! But wouldn't I love to stumble across one for $5 :)

Banner, Bunting or Garland Tutorial

2010-06-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

♥Red White and Blue♥

It seems like some Holidays come and go's so fast that I don't always have time to decorate. I've been wanting to make a Stamped Garland for awhile now, so with 4th of July around the corner I decided to go with a red, white and blue theme.
The best part about a project like this is you can use what you have, no need to pick up any special supplies.
What you'll need: Fabric{two kinds}, Scissors{if you happen to have a rotary cutter it makes it a little easier}, Stamp, Ink, Ribbon{anything will do, I used rick rack}, and a Sewing Machine.
Cut your fabric into Triangles. The fabric you choose for the back piece needs to be slightly larger than the front piece. I made my banner for a small space, so you may need more pieces depending on how large you want your banner to be. This size is perfect to drape across a mantel, doorway or a mirror. I cut 7 Blue and 4 White.
Stamp front Triangles{if you don't have a stamp, you can always sew something on the front piece OR leave it plain}.
Pin together....
Sew in place.....
Pin ribbon in place. Sew across the top of each piece.....
Hang!

The Beach...

2010-06-23T09:14:00.001-07:00

is where we'll spend a lot of our days
this summer...

A starfish~ an unusual sighting, at least for this beach.These guys might look sweet and innocent, but they're some of the pushiest seagulls I've ever seen. Every time I left my towel two or three of them would dig through our stuff! This guy just stood there waiting for me to get up again.
The hard part is convincing my kids it's time to go....after lounging in the sun for two hours I realized I missed sunscreen on some important parts of my body, like my forehead & the tops of my feet~ yikes, it's going to hurt later!!

Craft Room & Studio Storage

2010-06-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

I just read the most wonderful post over at Magpie Ethel's Blog. She share's the inside of her Cottage Studio. You have to see it to believe it....it truly is a Vintage lover/Crafter's paradise.
{A shabby shelf in my craft room where I use jars to hold some of my trinkets}

Storage and Decor inspired by Magpie Ethel's Happy Studio{found on Etsy}♥

1. Antique Doll Dresser, by: simplychictiques
2. Vintage Jars, by: designarchives
3. Vintage Labels, by: mushroomandmoss
4. Vintage Kitchen Cabinet, by: thevintagesupplyco
5. Metal Storage, by: TagSaleFinds
6. Antique Striped Luggage, by: BrightWallVintage
7. Metal Tray, by: folkcity
8. Tissue Honeycomb Balls, by: dimestorechic
9. Vintage Floral Tin, by: spacejam

Inspiration on flickr:
1. Vintage Wallpaper Collection
1. File in Style
1. Dresser Drawer-UpClose
1. Milk Crate Storage for Studio

I love seeing how others store and organize their craft supplies and findings~ so many creative and fun ideas!!

Summer Craft Shows

2010-06-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

I wish I'd planned better so I could have been able to be a vendor at a few Craft Shows this Summer. If I can't be a vendor at least I can be a shopper :) I've been searching for Art/Craft Fairs coming soon~ I found that some sites charge for a list, so here are three that don't. You can search for Craft Shows in your State: here, here and here.

One Craft Fair I'm really excited about is the Renegade Craft Fair! There will be over 200 Artists{many who I've been a fan of through Etsy for years} plus Craft workshops~ how fun!!

Inspiring Craft Show displays:

1. craft show display, 2. My booth at Garrison Art & Craft Show, 3. Booth Shot, 4. Craft Fair- my table!

I'll be sure to bring my camera :)

Flea Market Finds...

2010-06-14T06:03:00.000-07:00

No vintage sheets, but I did find a few other fun things.
Vintage Buttons
Two vintage style valise cases & vintage doll.
Tin world bank & scotty dog planter
Just a couple of the vintage tablecloths I found, drying in the sun after soaking. I'll be using them in sewing projects{they each have some issues, so they're perfect for cutters}I'll also be putting together Tablecloth bundles for my Shop.

On the hunt for Vintage Sheets

2010-06-11T16:12:00.000-07:00

I've been on the lookout for vintage sheets for awhile now, needing to replenish my stash. It used to be that every time I went thrifting I had plenty to choose from, now they're harder and harder to find. I've got a lot of sewing projects planned over the summer: re-cover dining room chairs, kitchen cafe curtains, dog bed cover, and lots of bags{like the one's below}to send my fabric scraps in.

My ultimate goal will be to somehow create something like these:
I found these beautiful curtains on the darling Blog of maggie and sparrow, made of vintage sheets and pillow cases.

I've been gathering vintage sheets for years, and never knew there were so many others interested in them until recently. I really realized the popularity when I came across the Blog: The Vintage Sheet Blog . Now I grab the sheets I come across while thrifting/flea marketing because I know if I don't someone else will!

Flickr Inspiration

1. apron , 2. Vintage Sheets, 3. YAY, 4. Vintage Sheet Quilt, 5. June Block for Evelyn, 6. Vintage Linens, 7. skirts for sisters, 8. Vintage Patchwork sheet cutains, 9. Waiting for Inspiration..., 10. chair, 11. Vintage Funky flower sheet set, 12. Pillowcases, 13. Smock top14. Not available15. Not available16. Not available

I'm heading out to see what I can find, and hoping to return with a pile of sheets :)

I ♥ Handmade

2010-06-04T06:19:00.001-07:00

I wanted to write a quick post about something really cool I recently bought. When I find something amazing I want to share it with everyone, especially when it's handmade. I've been wanting to buy a handmade purse for over a year now. I've searched all over Etsy, trying to find the perfect bag....then I found Pansy Maiden. I love everything about this purse, the size{now that my kids are older I don't need something huge to hold all the misc. stuff you need with little ones}, all the compartments, how well made & sturdy it is~ I can't say enough great things about it, so if you're in need of a purse check out their Shop.

Last night I had to do the thing all pet owners dread. I had to put my dog Daphne to sleep. This is the third time I've had to do this, and each time I say I'll never get another dog. So today is a little strange{and so sad}not seeing her laying across the floor in what ever room I'm in or hearing her nails on the hard wood as she walks through the house{something I'd hear in the middle of the night as she was figuring out who's bed she was going to sneak into}.

My other dog is probably wondering where her partner is{they were BFF's, always together as you can see from the pictures below}.
I'm going to have a sad little 7 year old who I've got to break the news to when she gets home from school today, something I'm not looking forward to :(

Cutters or Keepers??

2010-05-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

When do you turn your vintage linens into cutters~ recycling/repurposing well loved linens???
I don't mind using an apron or tablecloth with fading or stains, so I probably hold onto my linens a little longer than most. Although it's hard for me to cut into well loved linens, I really enjoy creating items out of vintage fabric.

RECYCLE:
1. Vintage Tablecloth Pillow, Handmade, 2. Tropicana- recycled apron, 3. Recycle Tablecloth Skirt, 4. Nana's Cottage Pie reversible handbag - print side

**A couple fun things to do with your cutters:
Pennant Banner
Peasant Blouse

I have this book{and LOVE it!}creating Lampshades with vintage linens, the perfect way to recycle!

Score of the Year!!

2010-05-25T06:02:00.000-07:00

Hands down, this has to be my favorite purchase of the year. I couldn't wait for it to arrive....
I love browsing Eiderdowns on Ebay, just to look{and dream} because usually they're way too expensive for me~ but I love looking anyways. Well, the other day I was shocked to see this amazing Eiderdown listed in a Buy-it-now for a price I couldn't believe!!
It was flashing Buy-me-now, Buy-me-now..... so I did :)
I don't make lots of big purchases because when you have four kids there are so many other things you really need. I haven't had my hair done in a Salon in over a year{yikes, I think it's closer to two years} I look more like a billy goat than a woman at this point, so believe me when I say I don't usually spend money on myself.
The most exciting part of buying the Eiderdown wasn't just the Eiderdown, but who I'd actually bought it from~ which I didn't know until I finished checking out. I guess I probably shouldn't say, but she's one of my very Favorite fabric Designers!! How cool is that :)

Wow~ How time flies.....

2010-05-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

I just realized it's almost been two weeks since my last post. Recently I took my kids by my first job. As soon as I opened the door the smell hit me and took me back 20 years....ahhh, it reminded me of working on a Saturday, wearing my gingham apron and icing cakes~ I loved my job!! The smell was the same, but about everything else had changed.
I just bought these fabric labels. I'm SO happy with how they turned out!!
If you're looking for labels, check out this Shop, she does great work & gives excellent speedy service!!
Normally I wouldn't consider paying $14.99 for a Magazine, but this was worth every penny.
So so inspiring! Love this magazine, but it only comes out four times a year, so if you need a fix in between issues~ they also have a Website & Blog .
I picked up this book: "American Junk" last week at an Antique Mall. Every time I flip through it I find something new, it never gets old.
The author talks about the time she found her childhood dollhouse{that she lost in a fire} while visiting a Junk Shop "I paid $10 and carried it out like Lancelot clasping the Holy Grail".
That's how I felt when I found my childhood doll~ Steffie from the "Sunshine Family" last week at the flea market. She makes me smile every time I see her sitting on my shelf♥

I have some very exciting mail coming this week~ I'll be back to share once it arrives :)

A favorite Etsy Shop & purchase..

2010-05-05T10:25:00.001-07:00

I finally found the perfect frame for one of my favorite prints. I purchased this Tattooed Lady post card from Amanda Atkins Etsy Shop.
I love her unique vintage inspired feminine style.
I look forward to hanging many more of her prints♥

Functional spaces...

2010-05-04T09:26:00.001-07:00

Lately I've been spending a lot of time organizing my house, trying to make it less cluttered and more functional. That's not so easy to do when you love thrifting/garaging/flea-marketing/and estate sale-ing and are constantly bring new{old}things home. I try to not bring things home that I can't/won't actually use, unless I plan on putting it in my Vintage Shop.

{Pennants from last weekend, that I love seeing hung on my shabby old door}
{Chalkware sailor duck named: Junior, made in 1947~ I didn't know he was that old until I got him home, I'm glad I picked him up!}
I picked this up years ago{I think it was used as a tool box} and haven't been using it like I should. It has a really deep/wide drawer with a shelf on top.
Sitting on my desk next to the computer, I'll be sure to get lots of use out of it now.
Being less cluttered gives me more time to work on projects, and just feels so much better :)
A few Memo Boards I completed over the weekend.
I have about a month before my kids are home for the Summer and I'm hoping to have my house decluttered and organized by then :)

UnBirthdays & Birthdays...

2010-05-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Oh my! I can't believe I found this Mannequin and it's not even my Birthday!! I've been missing the one I sold and have been browsing the internet lately for another one, but quickly realized they're too expensive. So imagine how excited I was to stumbled onto her this morning at the Flea Market, and we'll only have to go about a week or so with out eating~ totally worth it!!!
I've also had a fascination with pennants and recently spent hours browsing Etsy and hearting them up a storm~ another score at an Estate Sale today!
I love Chalkware & pastel colors~ I almost squealed out loud when I spotted this pig, and the duck was just too cute to pass up so I took him too. I also picked up this pink huge 30" x 50"{boxed never used}vintage bathroom rug and two frames. It was a very good day :)
So even though it wasn't my Birthday{but it sure felt like it was} it was my daughters on Friday.
I can't believe how fast they grow, if I could just keep this one small forever~ I would!

Hidden Treasures....

2010-04-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the things you find inside the things you've found are the real treasures. I picked up this neat old frame at the flea market thinking I'd use it in my Etsy Shop. The more I looked at it I realized how old it was{it has that beautiful thick wavy glass} and decided it should still remain a frame{not turn it into a Chalkboard or Memo Board} plus I had just picked up this really cool print~ that fit inside perfectly.
While taking the frame apart, I found these....
The Cleveland Plain Dealer~ Comics and Adventure, Sunday February 6, 1955, and The American Weekly, February 6, 1955. The writing on the front of the comics says: framed by Gertrude Herman March 1955. So, for some reason she placed them inside the back of the frame.

The graphics on the comics are still vivid and bright{pretty good for being 55 years old}.
But my favorite thing inside the frame is this old family photo. The back only says: 336 Kinsman, possibly an address? I'd say this picture is from sometime in the late late 1800's early 1900's{I'm guessing because of the clothing}. I wonder if this was the original picture inside the frame....
It's the history behind things like these that's had me collecting vintage pre~loved items for years♥

New{vintage}Flea Market Finds...

2010-04-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if this dress belongs to Barbie, but I can only imagine how cute it would be full size.
Vintage smock apron~ I love the style{with pockets} and love the print even more!
Beautiful pastel floral tablecloth, that I actually won on ebay. It's been awhile since I've bought a tablecloth on-line, but this was just too pretty to pass up.
This little guy reminded me of Howdy Doody, so for .5o cents how could I not take him home?

Vintage Portrait Collection

2010-04-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have a thing about collecting portraits of other peoples families. This is my latest find. I wish I had the reaction on video of my six year old when she first spotted these almost life size children{it actually looks like they're sitting on the wall}it was too funny!
There was something about each one of these that made me feel the need to take them home.
Two of my favorites because they look so much like my Grandparents♥
If I end up becoming a hoarder of anything, it will definitely be of Portraits.

Fabric Hoops

2010-04-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

I picked up these embroidery hoops forever ago to make wall hangings that I could display my vintage potholders on. I knew I wanted to use vintage fabric, so I pulled out my suitcase and started digging....
So simple to put together. All you need is a hoop, fabric, glue and scissors.
Ta da!

Roses

2010-04-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe I'm responsible for these.
When I planted this rose bush four years ago I really didn't expect too much from it. I've never been good with plants or planting anything, so I'm always thrilled when I see a blooming rose{let alone a couple dozen}.
When I see a house with overflowing rose bushes I always wonder if they actually cut them and have them throughout their home...because I would, and do.

1. Rose Cottage Fence, 2. Endless summer, 3. Hobnail, 4. Rose Cottage ...

Just a few of my favorite vintage vases, filled and ready to place around the house♥

Terrariums

2010-04-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow, does it get any cuter than this??? I know there's been a whole Terrarium craze this last year{even though they've been around since the early 1800's, you can see the History of Terrariums here} normally I like what I like, not usually what's Hot~ but how can you not love Terrariums??? My Paper Crane has taken them to another level.... I am seriously crazy about these!!
They were being sold at the Renegade Handmade Craft Fair in Chicago{which has already come and gone} but you might be able to snag one here....if there are any left, unfortunately they're almost sold out :(

She's also created the cutest Terrariums Fabric, which you can purchase on Spoonflower or in her Etsy Shop.

Terrariums on Etsy:

Print collector of worlds, By: doodleandhoob
Terrarium Pendants, By: WarmCountryMeadows
Live Moss Terrarium Do-it-yourself kit, By: MissMossy
Apothecary Jar Moss Terrarium, By: blithegardens

If you think you'd like to make your own Terrarium, this is probably the best Tutorial Video I found~ easy to follow w/helpful information.

I'll share pic's on mine once I'm done putting it together~ that is after I gather everything I need to make one :)

Eggs, New Fabric & Flea Market Finds

2010-04-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

I used to have four Decorators, now I'm down to two. I guess 15 and 17 year old boys aren't too into decorating Easter eggs???? Thank goodness my girls still love doing this stuff!
I've been anxiously awaiting this little package....
If you've never heard of Spoonflower, you really need to check it out. It's a place where you can design, print and sell your own fabric{and also buy}**Warning: You'll end up stuck to your computer{for way too long}browsing through the pages and pages of fabric AND you just might find your Cart overflowing by the time you're done. This is what I ended up with, but believe me I could have easily picked out a dozen more!!

Such cute & fun prints, now to figure out what I'm gonna do with them.
Here's a few things I picked up Saturday at the Flea Market: Dutch themed tablecloth, flat floral sheet, terry cloth toaster cover, terry cloth apron, handmade coasters and a 1958 Carnation's cookbook. I was there looking for frames, vintage jewelry and buttons....sometimes you end up in a whole different direction :)

* * * * * HAPPY EASTER * * * * *

Finding your Chosen Path...

2010-04-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

What an inspiring video! I came across it after finding her Book "Confections of a Closet Master Baker". Although I'm not the best baker{or that I do much baking at all}it reminded me of how much I loved my first job which was working in a Bakery~ seriously the best job ever! How nice to see someone getting a second chance to do what they truly love♥

New Confections of a Closet Master Baker Trailer from Raymond Prado on Vimeo.

You can also check out her on-line Shop and Blog here :)

Vintage Buttons

2010-03-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Although I have a pretty big collection of vintage buttons, I can never have too many. I use mine to make Magnets for Memo Boards & Chalkboards that I sell in my Shop. The bigger the button, the better....
I just picked these up last weekend~ in some of my favorite shades of pink & blue!

Did you know there was a National Button Society? I didn't. You can find tons of info. and links on everything vintage button related. I also love this website Button, Button.. where you can view and buy vintage and antique buttons.

{from Rachel Ashwell's book: Shabby Chic}She says she collects vintage buttons to add to the backs of pillows to give them additional visual interest and detail.

Flickr: Button eye Candy:

1. Vintage Flower Buttons, 2. Vintage Button Magnets, 3. vintage pink buttons, 4. Vintage Buttons, 5. Red Rose Vintage Button Bracelet, 6. Vintage glass buttons , 7. Vintage buttons, 8. Vintage Buttons, 9. Button Bouquets, 10. You've got some sortin' to doooo, 11. vintage beads and button bracelet, 12. Show your buttons Sunday!, 13. Anchors Aweigh Vintage Button Ring

I'm hoping to find more this weekend :D

My new Favorite Finds, Baseball and Crafting...

2010-03-14T07:44:00.001-07:00

Lately Blog posting has become almost as hard to find time for as exercise! I love Blogging, and spending way too much time clicking through my list of favorite blogs, but lately it feels like I can't find the time. Well, I had find the time to share some of the cutest things I picked up lately. Is this Pastel Piggy Cookie Jar not the cutest thing ever?? I bought her and the bowl to her right{bowels were something I collected a few years ago like they were going out of style!!} both for only $6.
After showing a friend my sweet find, they mentioned how well it should do in my Vintage Shop...you would have thought they suggested I sell one of my kids, "Oh, I'm keeping her"!! It's like having a little pastel rainbow in my kitchen and I'm hoping the fact that she's a Pig will keep me from eating too many cookies~ wishful thinking :)

This next find, I feel I almost risked my life for! I was driving through a not so great part of town that I'm not familiar with when I spotted a Thrift Store. It was almost dark, the area was a little scary{and I'm not saying that to be a snob, but I seriously stood out}I thought I'll just run in real quick.... then I found her♥
She reminded me of the Clothes Pin dolls that are so popular now. I thought I'd grab her and get going{she was only $3~ WOW!} well once I realized I didn't have any cash on me and they don't take debit cards....my only option was to walk about six stores down to get some cash{oh ya, and by this time~ it was dark}. I don't think I've ever walked so fast... I'm glad I stopped and found her, now she sits on my shelf where I can see her while I'm working :)

We went to my nephews T-ball game, it sure did make me miss when my boys were little and spending the weekend running from game to game.
I've also spent some time painting and working on some new projects.
I love to paint, I find it relaxing for some reason, whether it's a wall, a frame or a craft project.
Now I have to get ready and head to the Flea Market to hunt down some frames. Have a great rest of the weekend!

Weekend Flea Market Finds....

2010-03-02T06:29:00.001-08:00

{Cuckoo Clock}I'm obsessed with these old clocks{working or not}this is the second one I've been lucky enough to pick up. Even though it's not perfect, I love it! I think I'll stop when I have a Wall full.

{Ceramic Blue Bird} I think it's a Blue bird or Jay bird, I'm not sure~ I just knew it would go perfectly in this spot near my other Blue birds :)
{Vintage Tablecloth}Trying to find some sun after soaking it in Oxyclean.
I love the design and colors.
{Ornate Frame}It went from this....
....to this: a Magnetic Inspiration/memo board now in my Shop.
and the cutest Pink House, that reminded me of the little Putz houses. I knew when I picked it up that I really didn't have anywhere to put it, but I couldn't pass it up. I decided to put it in my Vintage Shop...and is now on it's way to a new home♥
It ended up being a really good weekend at the flea market♥

Fun Paper Crafts & Decor

2010-02-26T07:04:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure what we did before the internet, but I love being just a few clicks away from any project. Here are some of my favorites{each with links to DIY instructions}. They're all pretty inexpensive, in some cases free if you already have what you need on hand. You end up with some really cute & fun handmade decor{not to mention a great way to pass some time if you've got cabin fever especially for those of you who've been snowed in}.
{Paper Pom Pom's}
1. pom poms in the trees, 2. Pom Poms & Paper Circles 6, 3. Hanging Poms, 4. Untitled

{Sewing Pattern Flowers}

{Handmade Butterfly Chandelier}

{Bird Cage Lanterns}

{Pinwheels}

{Banners}
I loved this tutorial title: "A Terribly Unorganized Tutorial On Banners", it made me lol...she's definitely my kind of crafter!

No Shabby Redo

2010-02-25T12:56:00.001-08:00

My computer's been causing me lots of problems lately, the up side to that is it's given me extra time to do things around the house that I've been putting off. Little by little we've been doing some work on my daughters room. She wanted a Black and White room, something a little more grown up like Hollywood Glam or Boudoir Style{she's only 13 and shares a room with her little sister, so she needed to compromise a little}and she insists no Shabby Chic or Cottage style for her! Browsing through Anthropologie we found a look we'd all be happy with.
I'm crazy about their Bedding, I'd even consider trading in my vintage sheets and duvet for the Tuxedo Bedding set
Awwww, this would be perfect, what girl wouldn't love a Vanity in her room.

I love these vintage style bulbs{ it's the first I've seen of them} I'd love to use these in a few of my lamps!
And WOW, if I had an extra $4,800 lying around I would buy this too...and hang it over my bed♥♥

I better get back to painting!

A Sunny Valentines Day...

2010-02-14T17:29:00.000-08:00

It felt so much like summer today, warm and sunny. Everywhere you looked people were wearing shorts, sundresses and flip flops. It's hard to believe that some parts of the world are covered in snow. So we headed to one of my favorite places....
The Beach

We could even see a little bit of Catalina.
Sand Berms still piled high protecting homes from high surf and high tide.

This is where I spent weekends and summers growing up{second floor, right on the boardwalk} my Dad had the ultimate Bachelor pad!

This has always been my favorite house, a Cottage on the Beach~ could it get much better than that???
I finally got around to re-doing my bathroom. About a week ago I stripped the paint, sanded and primed it{all in one day} I wasn't sure my hands and forearms were ever going to be the same! So now that I've recovered, it's time to paint. I'm using mint green with pink and white accents. I just bought these cute cottage prints that I plan on framing and hanging in there.
I also bought these darling Tea Towels, they were just too cute to pass up!

Latest Vintage scores♥

2010-01-31T12:14:00.000-08:00

Just some of the fun things I've picked up lately. I absolutely love this little Pink & cream case, I think I'll use it to store my craft supplies in.
1} Pink & cream barbie case, earrings, clock & floral tablecloth
2} Cards
3} Pastel stripped sheet & dainty floral pillow case
4} Bingo cards & games pieces, tiny Santa, 12 days of Christmas napkins, Dutch cards, Christmas deer decoration
5} Tournament ribbon & School letter
6} Frames
A silver oval locket ring{ it needs some cleaning & pictures added}
I was lucky enough to pick up a box full of these fun vintage paper lanterns. I'm listing some in my vintage Shop since I can only hang so many around the house :)
A few things that arrived in the mail. This great little pocket notebook from: Scatterboxoriginal's and some really sweet valentines and Thank You cards from theblackapple.
...and something I wasn't expecting to arrive in the mail~ the new issue of Cath Kidston! So between that & my Country Living magazine, I'm set with inspirational eye candy!

Bluebirds....

2010-01-27T09:20:00.000-08:00

A friend just sent me possibly the cutest vintage planter ever!
This might become my new collecting addiction.
Unfortunately, I don't think I'd be alone in the pursuit of these cute little birds, making them hard to get a hold of.

So sooooo many cute bluebirds to see on Flickr

1. Vintage Bluebird Wall Pocket, 2. Baby Birds and Momma Bird, 3. String anyone?, 4. Quick, before they catch us, 5. Vintage Bird Bank, 6. Vintage Bluebird, 7. Vintage bluebird, 8. Blue Bird Creamer, 9. Vintage Bluebird Wall Pocket

Stamping fun!!

2010-01-22T07:23:00.001-08:00

Well, I finally got around to putting this purchase to good use. When I found these really neat canvas drawstring bags I knew exactly what I wanted to do with them.
I picked up a few ink pads, broke out my Stamp{made by talented Roberto Sand}...
and now I have cute little bags to send my Magnets in.
I can see how stamping can become very addicting!

Crazy Weather & Great Mail!

2010-01-19T17:52:00.000-08:00

Wow, today's weather was not the usual California weather. We actually had a Tornado warning{something I don't remember experiencing growing up in California}. I was on the way home from the Post Office when I heard the warning on the radio~ which really freaked me out... I couldn't get home quick enough!
{Los Angeles Times}

The best part of the day, was all the mail that arrived! Soaking wet, but it got here. I spent some time browsing Amazon.com last week, ordered a few books{two for me & one for my daughter} now all I need is the time to sit and read :)

I love Amanda Atkins Etsy Shop, so I ordered one of her Postcards~ it's even better in person and I can't wait to buy more!
Then there's the Yards of awesome fabric I couldn't wait to arrive! Somehow I stumbled onto this great Fabric Shop: Hawthorne Threads.
Sometimes placing an order on-line can be difficult to figure out, and more of a hassle than it's worth~ well this was the exact opposite, and now it's my new very favorite place on earth to buy my fabric!! LOVE these prints :)

Felt + Crafty People

2010-01-12T16:25:00.000-08:00

I picked up this framed floral felt wall art at an Estate Sale over the weekend. I can't believe all the little details, I can only imagine the amount of time that goes into a project like this.
It's a little dusty, so I need to figure out how to clean it up without ruining it. I think I might want to paint the frame too. Thank You Crafty person{who ever you are} I love it, and will take good care of it :)
I'm always amazed when I come across items made of Felt. Someday I hope to have the time{and patience}to make something myself. Here are just a few inspiring and adorable things I ♥

Stuffed Felt Monsters Tutorial{click on the link to see step-by-step instructions}

Yalipaz{Handmade and embroidered felt brooch}

Lou and Lee{Felt Flower Headband}

babybomb{Felt Wall Art}

So cute!!

My new Iron♥

2009-12-31T10:55:00.000-08:00

has me wanting to iron & sew like crazy! After using an iron for the past couple years that I had to jiggle the cord to get to work{then prop it up and try not to move once the light came on}not to mention it was like playing the lotto, sometimes it would leave a burn mark and sometimes it wouldn't! So my new iron is like a dream...I seriously LOVE it!
So, I decided to make something. I wasn't sure what it was going to be at first. A tote, a pillow??? It all started with this embroidered sheet that I'd picked up years ago, that's just been sitting and waiting for me to do something with it.
I decided to turn it into a book{or toy} Bag for my friends little boy~ Ben.
That was fun~ I'm still in the mood for ironing & sewing :)

It's finally here...

2009-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

with only a few last minute things to do.
{a favorite flea market find~ a framed jeweled Christmas tree on red velvet}
My girls are busy making the last few batches of cookies. This is what happens when I forget to set the timer. Ahhh, the smell of burnt cookies throughout the house! My poor kids, they're so used to me burning almost everything :(

My favorite's♥ Flickr Christmas:

1. pink christmas lolli with finishing touches, 2. Keep calm its only christmas!, 3. Hoop decorations-christmas, 4. granny square christmas stockings, 5. my very vintage christmas, 6. christmas brights, 7. christmas trees polaroid, 8. Our vintage inspired "cardboard christmas house" ornaments, 9. fireplace mantel, 10. our christmas tree, 11. tinsel tree, 12. Mini Pastel Ornaments, 13. 2009 Mini Tree14. Not available15. Not available16. Not available

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas :)

Four Days til Christmas....

2009-12-21T10:39:00.000-08:00

And I'm no where near done with shopping. It gets so crazy this time of year, I dread getting out into the crowds.
Finally got the tree up and decorated. With not much room in our living room for a tree...it ended up getting squished into this space.
My kids are all out of school for their holiday break. My girls love to bake, so we decided to bake cupcakes. They wanted to make something Christmas~eee{we only had lemon cake mix}so since yellow & blue= Green....
we added blue food coloring to the mix, and ended up with minty green cupcakes.
Since we were using what we had on hand, the only edible red we had: Raspberries. I thought it was a good idea, like little Christmas tree's.
But when they were all done, they stood back & said "they look like nipples...like a plate full of boobs!" NICE! We won't be passing any of these out.
Next time we use sprinkles.

It's not Pastel....

2009-12-16T10:54:00.001-08:00

...but I love these colors.
Even though this old wicker rocker is no longer for sitting, I can't bare to get rid of it~ I think I like it best weathered and tattered like this.

Flickr:

1. Carmel Canyon Road Litter, 2. Winter Leaves, 3. The Leaves, 4. Fall in Tokyo, Shinjuku Park

This is totally unrelated, but I came across an Etsy Shop{Deerface} last night that has some amazing art prints. These are just a couple of my favorites.

Love them♥ They would be so beautiful framed!

Away We Go.....

2009-12-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

I'm under the weather{still} so I decided to lay in bed and watch this movie...
After passing it up at least a dozen times at the video store I decided to rent it. I'm glad I did. It was cute, sweet & funny~ definitely worth watching. Awesome soundtrack too!

Pink and Blue Christmas

2009-12-07T07:17:00.001-08:00

I'm just getting started, but I think I'm going to do an all Pink & Blue Christmas this year.
My daughter and I made a long pink & blue garland out of bumpy chenille stems. I think I still have enough to wrap around the Christmas Tree.

Pink & Blue Etsy holiday decor finds:
{Vintage mercury bulbs}

{Blue Silk Christmas Tree Skirt}

{Pink Christmas Lights}

{Pink Bottle Brush Tree's}

I need to get into the attic to get the rest of my Christmas decorations down. We have rain today...the first rain we've had since I can't remember when?? It feels like the perfect day to get the house ready for the holiday's.

Re-finding things :)

2009-12-03T06:01:00.000-08:00

It's always a nice surprise when you come across things you forgot you had. I think it happens a lot as you get older{or once you have kids, something happens to your memory} you hide things or store them away...then when you find them again it's the best surprise "woo hoo, I forgot I had this!".
The funny thing is, I do this almost every time I "re-find" my fabric stuffed into this suitcase!
It's like the gift that keeps on giving :)

This jar filled to the brim with vintage buttons was my latest{unexpected} flea market find. I've been seriously low on my buttons supply, and was beginning to think I may never find more{without paying an arm and a leg} so I was thrilled when I found these!

I'm SO excited about this too!

Ready to stitch Tote, by Sublime Stitching.
Nothing is more relaxing than sitting and embroidering. What keeps me from doing more of it is the whole transferring pattern part~ but you don't have to worry about that step because it's already done for you.
This is what it can look like ♥

I'm also thinking that I might need this awesome Ultimate Starter embroidery kit, it has everything you could possibly need to get yourself started.

I might have to surprise myself with it for Christmas :)

Estate Sales.....

2009-11-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

This is why I love them:
I found this vintage{Gurley candle} choir girl to add to my little collection. Made during 1940's through 1970's and sold at most dime stores, these little cuties were mostly used as holiday decor, to display rather than burn.
I love my new girl :)

Another reason why I love Estate Sales: The cool completed projects you'll find! Some crafty crafter made these super cute Santa napkin holders, and I don't think they were ever used. While I'm browsing around an Estate Sale, I'm always wondering about the owner of the things I'm looking through??? I'm sure who ever made these meant for them to be used.
They'll definitely be used on our Christmas table♥

Another fun holiday collectible: little Putz Houses. A friend sent me this one....now I just need to find more to get a little community going.

I've also been working hard{at what feels like a snails pace when you're sick}
Ahhh, I finally completed two Chalkboards for my Shop.

Happy Thanksgiving!