Craft Classes?

Last year I was standing in the line at Robert's (local craft store) waiting in line to purchase some Cricut cartridges. (4 for $100- a STEAL- which meant the line was LONG) The women behind me started talking to each other about different products, not really knowing what they did or how they worked. I, of course, butted myself into their conversation and began telling them what I knew and understood about the different items they were talking about. At several points they left the line (we held their spot, of course) to gather the items I suggested. (hello, commission?) Anyway, one of the ladies said, "Can I just take you home with me? That way you can answer all my questions!" And boy did I wish I had some business cards on me, cuz- duh! golden opportunity! But, it did make me realize that maybe all this time spent messing around with clay, wire, wood, paint, fabric, glue guns...and on and on...has taught me something- something I'd love to share. There is great satisfaction and joy to be found in making something with your own two hands- and so, I present, craft classes.
These are just some ideas I have had, they are by no means the limit of what we can do/learn. If there is something you want to do/have seen- let me know and we can figure out how to do it. If you are interested, please leave a comment either here or on facebook- letting me know which classes/when you would like to do them. For starters I thought we would focus on gifts/holiday decor. And I would like to host them in November, so we aren't all crazy by Christmas. My friend has also agreed to help with jewelry making if there is any interest there!

Fabric flowers. Different styles, pins/clips/headbands.

Baby Legs. Made out of knee high socks.

Embellished canvas tote bags. We can do matching crayon rolls, or do those in a separate class.

I thought of doing those countdown calendar blocks, we could do other wood projects, pillows, embroidery. You name it. Anyway, I'd like to gauge the interest in these and then we'll move forward with scheduling. Here's to crafting up a few gifts!

XOXO, Amy

Mini Clay Spider

Okay, so first it was a pillow kick, and now it seems that spiders have taken over my brain waves. Sorry if it creeps you out- but I can't help myself. This is how I craft. One idea spins off into another idea- and so on.

I saw a version of these at a boutique in a pharmacy I was in. (yes- a boutique in a pharmacy: are they brilliant or what? You are stuck there waiting for your meds...you look around...you buy too much stuff....GENIUS!) My sister wanted to buy some (I think-I might be making that part up) but I told her I could totally make them (that part I am not making up). But then I completely forgot about them until the other day. I was making my regular spiders and talking to her on the phone (at the same time-pretty good huh?) and she asked me if I was making those cool spiders we saw. I wasn't...but now I am! :)

And here it is:

He is really small. Like smaller than a quarter total. I used wire for the legs and he has no eyes. The ones we saw had little magnets on the bottom. How fun would that be to have some randomly around the house? I love sticking things with magnets on corners (where the metal sheet rock corner thingy is) and around windows, so I just might have to super glue some magnets on the bottom (I'll have to find some tiny ones first). I only had time to make 2 so far, but I'm thinking a whole bunch of them would be super creepy and fun. They would be great to use on my candles or to glue to a picture frame. So many possibilities!

Baking up a storm

I love to bake. I always have. So when I got to divvy up assignments for our recent family bbq- I of course gave myself my favorite job- dessert! I decided to make a few different treats- a couple old standbys (like the choc. chip cookies) and a new doughnut muffin recipe I found here at Tidy Mom. These muffins were the hit of the day! It's always nice when a new recipe turns out that way. The only change I will make next time is to halve the nutmeg (not a huge fan). Other than that, they are yummy. And I totally love the mini version- I made both sizes- both are good- but just popping the whole thing in your mouth for one lovely tasty treat? Perfect!
p.s. I LOVE!!!! my new serving tray from IKEA -$10 and metal? A steal!