One more freezer t-shirt plus instructions

Here's one more freezer T!
These are really easy to make and you can create almost anything you can dream up!
-Cut out your design on freezer paper. You can use a die cut machine or copy something off the internet or a coloring book.
-Iron the negative image onto the t-shirt waxy side down. High heat, no steam.
-Put a piece of freezer paper or cardboard in between the layers of the t-shirt so the ink won't go through.
-Using fabric ink or fabric paint color your design. I found that the squeeze bottles worked well. Squeeze a small section of paint onto your image and use a paint brush to brush it on. Go back and forth and up and down. You can do a couple of coats to make it darker, if desired. If doing more than one color or design, let dry and repeat process.
-When dry (about 4 hours) remove the freezer paper. Lay a new piece of freezer paper over the entire design. Iron to set the paint.

Will wash well, turn inside out for best results.

These instructions are pretty basic, if you search you can find videos or other webpages with more detailed step by step instructions. But, pretty much these are really easy to make. Try it out on one of your stained t-shirts first then let you imagination sore!

Think.... tennis shoes, bags, pants, hats, etc..... :)

I've also tried this using the positive image. I've ironed on the image and then when cooled, I've used bleach water and randomly sprayed the t-shirt. When dry and the freezer paper image is removed, it resembles tie-dyed. I did this with a black t-shirt and the bleach left red and white splashes all over the t-shirt. My nieces had a blast making theirs.

Homemade Christmas - Freezer t-shirts

I made all my nieces and nephews t-shirts this year for Chrismtas. Some were easier to come up with then others. They all loved them, so I think I did good.

Homemade Christmas gifts - coasters

I did almost all homemade Christmas gifts this year. These are some coasters that I stamped and stenciled. I baked them in the oven after I was finished and then when they cooled, I sprayed two coats of clear coat over them. Super easy and when you mess up, you just wash them off and start over!

Last minute table decorations

I just watched this great video on making your own table decorations. There are some really cute ideas:
-Matching place mats and chair covers.
-Matching napkin rings and plant pot
-Pine cone decorations
-Paper wreath

This could be very useful for Christmas or any other occasion.

Graham Cracker Gingerbread house

I've never made a gingerbread house before and would've never thought of doing one out of graham crackers.
My son's class made these yesterday and it was a ton of fun. He made a structure out of cardboard and then "glued" the graham crackers on with icing.

The balcony has candy corn railing. Behind the shutters you can see the grided window. That is Santa and a graham cracker reindeer on the roof.
Not as pretty as some of the houses I've seen, but I think he did an awesome job!

Who knows this could become a family tradition.....

BOGO SALE

Buy any 1 item from my shop and get 1 of my $1.00 cards for FREE!

That's correct - you can get 2 items for as little as $1.00!
I still have plenty of Christmas tags, so get yours today.

You can see what I have at: www.JustScrapsNThings.etsy.com

Ritz cracker cookies - SUPER EASY

I just saw these cookies again and thought I'd pass it on. I haven't tried the mint thins, but I've done the Chocolate peanut butter ones and they are awesome. I made them for my son's teachers last year and they raved about them. Plus, they are super easy to make - bonus!

Mint Thins

Prep Time: 15 min Total Time: 45 min Makes: Makes 12 servings. What You Need!1 pkg. (8 squares) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted, slightly cooled 1/4 tsp. peppermint extract 1 sleeve RITZ Crackers (36 crackers) 1 candy cane (6 inch), crushed Make It!
MIX chocolate and extract.

DIP crackers in chocolate, turning to completely coat each cracker. Carefully scrape off excess chocolate. Place crackers in single layer on waxed paper-covered baking sheets; sprinkle with crushed candy.

REFRIGERATE 30 min. or until chocolate is firm.


Chocolate-Peanut Butter "Cookies"
Omit peppermint extract and candy cane. Spread each cracker with thin layer of peanut butter before dipping in the melted chocolate.

Heat embossing tip

I just tried this tip that I heard and it worked perfectly!

When heat embossing - prior to stamping, rub your surface with a dryer sheet. Stamp and then apply powder. The loose powder should shake off and not leave any stray speckles on your project. Heat to set powder. I just wish I had known this tip years ago!

BREAST SALE

Found this on the Etsy forum and had to help her out. Please take a look at her shop:

DECEMBER 2009 - BREAST SALE!!
Having just found out that my mother has breast cancer and will be having a double mastectomy - here is a sale in honor of her, and meant to help her out. Emotionally, as well as financially. I have marked some of my nude paintings (those with breasts showing) down by 50% - which is huge. I am a nationally recognized award-winning, gallery represented, successful artist, who does not usually have sales (as I have wonderful collectors). But this is for Mom - so wish us luck and quick healing for her.


http://www.etsy.com/shop/KimDow

I'm featured in a blog

Thank you to Creativewithclay.etsy.com for featuring me in your blog:
http://creativewithclay.blogspot.com/2009/11/color-feature-of-week-baby-blue.html

In Memory of 4 slain police officers

We had a very sad end to our holiday weekend. A man walked into a coffee shop and fatally shot 4 police officers that were working on their laptops. The search is still on for this man. They believe that one of the officers was able to get a shot off and wounded the man.
I feel so bad for these families - these four police officers had a combined total of 9 children.
I'd like to do something for their families, so for every one of my cards that is sold I will donate $1.00 to the fund started for their families.
So, check out my cards and see if there is something you like. If you need a different sentiment, color or design - let me know, I will make it for you.

God bless all the police officers who put there lives in danger every day for us!

Make your own Office Organizers

The show I was watching this morning - Scrapbook Memories, had some great tips on using scrap paper.

They made these really cute office organizers out of foam board and scrap paper.
You could make these for yourself or as a gift. I'm thinking of making these for my son's teacher! I could do the whole theme in apples. Now to go scout out her desk and see if she needs one!

Click the title and it will take you to the shows website and show you step by step instructions on how to make them. You can even watch the broadcast.

Party favors & decorations - using just scraps!

I was reading the paper and watching a show called Scrapbook Memories this morning. They did the show on making things out of scrap paper. HEY, that's what I do! :)

One of the things I thought was very clever was to make your own "curling ribbon" out of scrap paper. Just cut your paper into thin strips and use your finger nail to curl the paper. Put pieces together and attach to your package!

The paper chain would be super cute to use as an ADVENT Calendar idea. Have your children remove one chain each day until Chrismtas. This is also a great idea on counting down to a vacation. Think of the paper possibilites. All Christmas colors as a decoration around your fireplace or door frame. hmmmm... I may have to try that.

They also showed how to make a really easy, cute, reusable banner.

Click the link and it will take you to the site with instructions and even the broadcast.

Black Friday Shopping - Deal of the Day

I'm now recovering from eating all that turkey and pie, plus getting up at 4:00AM to go shopping on Black Friday. I didn't have too much of a list today, but did get a few good deals.

I picked up: The Dark Knight DVD for $3.99 at Target. Cuddlebug embossing folder for $4.00 at Michals. 1/2 price socks and pj's at Fred Meyer's.

My son was thrilled to go with me as he had a gift card burning a hole in his pocket. :) He got the Nerf Vulcan EBF-25 for $25 at Target. Kept the whining to a minimum and we were all done by 9:00 AM.

What deals did you get out there? Post them here!

THANKSGIVING DAY TO CYBER MONDAY SALE

I'm having a SALE at my Etsy store: www.justscrapsnthings.etsy.com

THANKSGIVING TO CYBER MONDAY SALE:
FROM NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - NOVEMBER 30, 2009

BUY ANY 2 ITEMS AND GET 1 ITEM FROM MY $1.00 SECTION FOR FREE!
Convo me and I'll adjust the price and reserve the listing for you or Purchase now and I'll refund through Paypal.

Includes all items including my $1.00 section.

Thanksgiving - Black Friday - Cyber Monday Sale

I'm going to be having a sale at my Etsy shop starting Thanksgiving Day. Watch my site or my blog for details. :)
If you want me to send you an email with a sneak peek, leave me a comment.

Scented embossing powder

Did you know that you can make your own scented embossing powders? Why, yes you can. You simply take some of your embossing powder and put into a seperate container. You can then mix in your scent - try using kool aid, coffee, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, etc... You shake it well and then use as usual. Store your extra in a small jar or container to use over and over.

Tips - do not use sugared items as they will carmelize. Use clear embossing powder, so the color shows up well. Using Matte papers works best to retain the scent.

Holiday baking traditions

I never had a holiday baking tradition until I was married. My husbands family has always made what's called Orange Rolls. They are similar to a crescent roll with a sweet orange butter glaze inside. They are so yummy right out of the oven. Every year the Saturday before Thanksgiving us girls all get together with the kids and make these rolls. We spend our time mixing, kneading, rolling and eating. The cousins all get to help out, when they are not outside playing. This year, I spent most of my time helping my two nieces roll out the dough and paint on the orange butter.
Yummmm these rolls are so good. Makes the holidays so special. Time with family is the best!

More Christmas items

Here's more of my Christmas items!

It's beginning to look a lot like CHRISTMAS!

Even though Thanksgiving is next week, I feel so far behind for Christmas. Since, I'm new to selling on Etsy, I'm not sure when it's too late to list Christmas stuff for sale. I finally got some of my items done and listed this week. I still have more to finish, but at least got some things done.

Now, onto making my homemade Christmas gifts. I'll post pics as soon as I get them done!

You can see my Etsy shop at: www.justscrapsnthings.etsy.com

Twilight New Moon party favors & banners

I haven't gotten into the whole Twilight series yet. I just can't figure out how to find time to read! Maybe after the holidays.
I do however know that the big movie is coming out tonight/tomorrow. I've heard everyone in my son's class talking about it!

So, I thought I'd promote these really cool party favors that my sister in law makes. She has party bags and banners in the Twilight Theme. How cool would it be to have a Twilight themed birthday party. I'm sure that your pre-teen or teen girl (or boy) would absolutely think you are the coolest!

Click on the title to see more of these fun party decorations!

Cute easy yarn Christmas ornaments

Saw these on another Etsy members blog. These are very cute. As you know I love to use scraps, think of all the scrap yarn you could use up making these.

How to make an easy handmade card

Ever wanted to make your own handmade card, but just don't know where to begin. You look a large piece of paper and wonder "what now?" The easiest way to start is to just start. :) I like to use scrap paper, but you can cut down a full sheet and save the rest for later (or better yet, make a couple of extra's to have on hand).

For a very simple card, I simple tear along one edge or use decorative scissors and trim along the edge. I then adhere that to a folded card. Stamp, print or write a sentiment along the bottom and voila you have a card.

Once you have that down, you can add additional background paper, an embellishment or pop up your design with foam tape. Adding ink along the edges or even outlining with a pen adds dimension. Once you have that down, start experimenting with other designs or multiple prints of papers.

I've created the two cards shown in less than 10 minutes and used only scrap materials. Creating more than one card at a time is just as easy as creating one. Once you have the papers pulled and the design in mind, the hard part is over! Give it a try and let me know how you do!

Rockin baby booties

I found these cute baby booties on Etsy and thought they were tooooo cute. Thought I'd give a shout out to www.RockinMamaBG.etsy.com.

Starting November 23rd - November 29th, she will be offering 15% off!

Cake in a mug

I found this on a friends blog. I thought this sounded like a ton of fun. I'm going to try making this with my son. If it turns out as good as it sounds, then I'm going to make these as teachers gifts for Christmas. I'll find a cute mug at the dollar store, put the dry ingredients in a baggie and then tie on a tag with the rest of the ingredients needed and instructions.

Hmmm.... this would good for camping also, just prep the ingredients at home then finish off at the campsite. Think of the possibilities. Let me know if you've tried this or have any other recipes.


5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

4 tablespoons cake flour(that’s plain flour, not self-rising)
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons baking cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips(optional)
a small splash of vanilla
1 coffee mug

Directions:
Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well
Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
Pour in the milk and oil and mix well.
Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don’t be alarmed!
Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.
EAT! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous).

For the love of Butterflies

Recently I have a thing for butterflies. I've never really thought much of them since I was a kid, but all of a sudden I love them. I've created two new cards with these butterflies. I'll keep playing with the paper version until I have a new love. :)

Stamping terms and techniques

After talking with a friend on Etsy, I realize alot of people probably don't know what I'm talking about! That is, in stamping language. Now, I'm not an expert, but I have been stamping for 20 years and have learned quite a bit in those years.
I found this glossary of terms on Michaels and thought it would be helpful. You could even print it out to keep in your craft area. Next time you are wondering what to do, try a new technique.




Glossary of Stamp Terms and Techniques

Courtesy of Rubber Stampede

Angel Company


Is a term common in the rubber stamp industry. This term identifies a company that allows the consumer to use their stamps to create products for resale. Each company has a different policy so it is wise to contact each stamp manufacturer for information on their respective copyright policies. Common restrictions may include: limiting the amount of hand stamped sample for resale, making sure that products are had stamped and not electronically reproduced, and restriction from using licensed properties such as Warner Bros.™, Suzy Zoo™ and Cynthia Hart™.

Dye Based Ink

A quick drying water based ink. Colors are most vibrant on white, glossy coated papers and card stock. Not recommended for use with embossing powder. Ink fades with time and when exposed to light.

Pigment Ink

Thick, slow-drying ink. Colors are rich and vibrant even on colored papers and cards. The ink will not dry on glossy coated papers unless embossed.

Crafter’s Ink

Multi-purpose, permanent ink with a longer drying time than acrylic paint. It is highly pigmented and the colors are mixable. It works on a variety of surfaces and is great for numerous craft applications such as fabric, wood, paper and painted surfaces. It must be heat set on fabric.

Embossing (or Thermal Embossing)

A technique using stamps with embossing or pigment ink, embossing powder and a heat source to create raised images. Stamp image with ink and immediately sprinkle with embossing powder over stamped image. Tap excess powder and reserve for future use. Heat image with embossing tool until powder melts.

Embossing Ink

Slow drying ink used for Thermal Embossing. See Embossing above.

Inking a Stamp


There are several ways to ink a stamp:

1.Using Felt Ink Pads – Tap stamp firmly onto ink pad until stamp is evenly inked. Raised felt ink pads can also be picked up and patted on stamp to apply color.
2.Using Foam Ink Pads – tap stamp gently onto ink pad until stamp is evenly inked. Raised foam ink pads can also be picked up and patted onto stamp to apply color.
3.Using Brush markers – Use only water based brush tip markers as solvent or alcohol type inks will stain and dry rubber out. Brush markers are used by applying the brush tip marker directly onto the stamp. Multicolor impressions are achieved by using additional colors on various areas of the stamp. Remoisten inks prior to stamping by breathing on the inked stamp or huffing.
4.Using Wedge Sponges – Use the flat edge of this sponge to apply inks or paints to the stamp in a patting motion.

Stamp Cleaner

Used to clean ink from stamps. Use applicator top to apply cleaner to stamp, them pat stamp dry on paper towels.

Stamping Mat

A durable foam mat used as a work surface for stamping. The mat gives slightly allowing the best ink impressions. Particularly useful for oversized stamps.

Stamping Paint

A highly pigmented, acrylic paint specially formulated to be permanent on a variety of surfaces. This paint has a slower drying time than acrylic paint to allow the user to apply different colors to a stamp for multi-color impressions. Fabric must be heat set on reverse side to make permanent.

Wedge Sponge

Used to apply paint to stamps. Load paint or ink on flat edge of sponge. Pat paint or ink onto surface of stamp. Also used as a tool to sponge color onto a variety of surfaces such as paper, fabric and wood.

Masking

A technique of covering a stamped image to protect it from subsequent applications of color. A method used to create foregrounds and backgrounds.

Instructions:

1.Stamp foreground image onto surface first.
2.Re-stamp image on a second piece of paper or Post it Note™.
3.Cut the second image out.
4.Align cut out image (or mask it) over the first image or foreground image.
5.Stamp second image overlapping the mask
6.Remove the mask.
7.The second stamped image appears to be in the background.

Mirror Image Stamp

A flat rubber stamp used as a tool to create a reverse or mirror image of a rubber stamp.

Instructions:

1.Ink a rubber stamp design.
2.Stamp on Mirror Image Stamp
3.The use the Mirror Image to stamp the image onto paper.
4.Image will be reversed.
5.This imprint will be light because it is a second generation print. Image can be touched up with markers if desired.

Simple cards

I absolutely love making simple cards. Not only are they easy to make, they are so clean looking. The patterned paper just pops and is pretty all by itself! I love to use up my scraps and make these simple cards. You can either stamp, print or write in the sentiment. Everyone loves a handmade card and it can be so easy to make one. I just made this one this morning and have it listed on my Etsy site for only $1.00.

Snowman tic tac containers

These cute tic tac containers would make great stocking stuffers, gifts for classes or as a tag on a gift. There are several ways you could do these cute little guys. You could even do Santa instead of the snowman. Check out www.splitcoaststampers.com for more fun ideas.

Check out these great Etsy sites:

Here is a list of wonderful shops of the day! Happy Shopping :D!!

.•:*¨¨*:•.A list of Wonderful Shops.•:*¨¨*:•.

digicute.etsy.com - digital collage sheets, clip arts, gift tags

katker.etsy.com - OOAK Bloomin' Button Jewelry & OOAK Swarovski Jewelry; she also has a section where everything is 50% off! Check it out: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5166836§ion_id=6073383. Be her 150th sale and get 15% refunded back to you! Also, mention this thread for an additional 20% off anything.

wigglysee.etsy.com - crocheted stuffed toys

justscrapsnthings.etsy.com - tags, cards, die cuts and sports emebellishments out of scrap papers. She has some items on sale for only $1!! Check them out: http://www.etsy.com/shop/JustScrapsNThings?section_id=6535613! Also, check out her new blog on crafting tips and ideas: http://justscrapsnthings.blogspot.com/

AnnaBelleArts.etsy.com - Needle felted art dolls, felted one of a kind bags, pincushions, eclectic jewelry and holiday creations; she has some art dolls that would like a new home :) http://www.etsy.com/shop/AnnaBelleArts?section_id=6211150! Also check out here unique pin cushions: http://www.etsy.com/shop/AnnaBelleArts?section_id=6209198

SewnInspirations.etsy.com - Decorative, children, teen & tooth fairy pillows. Pet stockings and more. Sale! 20% off decorative pillows, sale items and holiday items.

ebruksupplies.etsy.com - unique jewelery specially handmade for you by a dentist and her mom! You can also find supplies mainly gemstones to create your own. FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING All items in her Shop!!! Also check out her blog: http://myblogkiwansdesign.blogspot.com/

Ebruk.etsy.com - this is the mother's shop :)!!! Trendy knitting and crochet! And this is her lovely treasury: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=74869. If you got 3 items in the same day of her shop Free Worldwide Shipping !!!Refunds will be back through Paypal.

gilliauna.etsy.com - Beaded and Gemstone Jewelry and Accessories; free shipping in US and Canada; Discounted WorldWide Shipping

MiasMunchies.etsy.com - handmade dog treats

Chep.etsy.com - cute art paintings

lanakinbuddys.etsy.com - quilt blankets, scarves, purses, and more! She needs 4 more sales to reach her goal by the end of this month. Let's help her out :)! Also, check out her giveaway on her blog: http://pudgypalz.blogspot.com/2009/10/new-moon-twilight-giveaway.html

KittysKorner.etsy.com - lovely knit goods

beadware.etsy.com - Handcrafted gifts and fine beaded jewerly; she just opened her shop about a month ago so let's give her some support!

FabricGreetings.etsy.com - mailable textile art

lisawitmercollection.etsy.com - Vintage and handmade jewelry. $1.00 shipping!

sweetharvey.etsy.com - letterpress greeting cards

TheArtOfJoy.etsy.com - Original paper goodies; if you like her cards, you can vote for her here: http://www.etsy.com/voter_list.php?ref=voter&room_id=78

ajcouturegemstones.etsy.com --LUXE gemstones beads and findings

juliafinucane.etsy.com - art, prints, dolls, paper goods, and free shipping on most items!

amyssoapsnthings.etsy.com - bath and body products and more! Get 20% off on purchases $15 dollars or more during the month of November.

TheAshGrove.etsy.com - earrings; she just started her shop so more items will be coming very soon! Let's give her some support!

obsoleteboutique.etsy.com - Unique and vintage items; she just opened this shop recently so let's give her some support :)!! The next one is her other shop!

EarthenTreasures.etsy.com - handmade jewelry and more; this is her other shop :)!

orlydesign.etsy.com - Handmade ceramic; she just opened her shop a month ago so let's give her some support!

mylittleburritos.etsy.com - dolls, totes, hand puppets, and more! Get 20% off your total purchase (not including shipping). Refund through paypal.

JWsCountryCrafts.etsy.com - cat toys, holiday decor, jewelry, Creative Wall Decor, and more

avendano.etsy.com - eco clothing shop; get 20% off and free shipping from Nov. 10-11

JewelryOfNote.etsy.com - handmade jewelry; check out her first treasury! http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=92797

Cute "Digital" party favors

Ever wonder what to do with digital paper. Can you print it? Do you just use it for digital scrapbooking? This picture shows some cute party favors and uses for digital paper. You can cut it down to use just sections for a project or cut out a piece as an embellishment. Of course, you can still use it for scrapbooking, but why stop there. These cute papers are from www.digicute.etsy.com check out her other cute papers and think of the possiblities.

Distressing tip

Check out this video on distressing tips - it shows 3 different techniques.

Really easy decorations or gifts

This picture is from a friend, but I've done these before. I will post more pictures later, but this will give you an idea.
Simply take inexpensive candles, you can usually find them at the dollar store, wrap scrabook paper around the candles and add any embellishments for added detail. These are shown with printed words, but you can also use patterned paper.
Secure the back with glue dots, pins or tie on a ribbon or fun fur.

New cards

I've just added some simple cards to my shop at http://www.justscrapsnthings.etsy.com/ that I've listed for just $1.00. They are still handmade and are two layers, but are a kept simple to keep the price down. They are still just as cute as my other cards. Check them out!