How-To and Tutorials

Softly Chiming Earrings by Candace Jedrowicz

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:49 -0700

Not everyone can handle constant noise. Some folks thrive on noise! Candace Jedrowicz thrives on lovely chiming sounds, but she’s respectful of others who might not want to hear it. If you’re like Candace, you’re in luck! She has designed some hand made, personal-space-sensitive chiming earrings just for you! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Electrical wire or 14 gauge or larger copper wire
20 gauge wire
Beads
Round nose pliers
Wire cutters
Chain nose pliers

	Cut 6 lengths of electrical wire – 2 each of graduating lengths. For instance: 2) 1 1/2″, 2) 1 3/4″ and 2) 2″ pieces. Hammer all the pieces, flattening both ends of each piece.

	Use round nose pliers to roll one end back into a loop.

	Cut a 3″ piece of 20 gauge wire. Grasp it in the middle with chain nose pliers. Bend both ends up, crossing them at the top.

	Slide 3 hammered pieces on in any order you like.

	Make sure to compare the earrings for size and shape after each step.

	Right above the crossed wires, roll the ends inward to form a heart shape.

	Hammer the top of the heart to flatten slightly.

	Cut another 3″ piece of 20 gauge wire. Grasp the wire in the middle with round nose pliers. Bend the ends together and crimp with chain nose pliers.

	Slide a bead over both ends of the wire and right up under the loop. Bend both ends slightly forward and slide them through the loops at the top of the heart.

	Cross the ends to the opposite sides.

	Roll the ends downward to make 2 more loops. Hammer the loops to flatten slightly.

	I hope you’re inspired to try something like it! If you do, I hope you’ll share it! Email me candace@cool2craft.com with your high resolution photos and stories so I can post them on our Creative Community blog.

Launched in October 2009, Cool2Craft TV broadcasts weekly internet TV episodes and special live-streaming events featuring industry recognized hosts, reporters, designers, authors and manufacturers. Visit www.cool2craft.com to watch this week’s show via the LiveStream player. Visit our YouTube Channel for project and technique demo videos and check out our current programming schedule for upcoming LIVE-streaming events. Visit www.cool2craft.com for current programming schedule.

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Hand Hammered Copper Chimes by Candace Jedrowicz

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:50 -0700

Candace Jedrowicz has a special place in her heart for the sweet sound of chimes. In fact, if you could see the ceiling of her studio, you’d see all of the chimes she’s ever collected, but there is one kind of chimes missing – hand made! Join Candace in an experiment of sight and sound! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Refrigerator ice maker kit or 3/8″ copper pipe
Jewelery saw or pipe cutter
Jeweler’s block or concrete floor
Chasing hammer or any hammer with a rounded side
Drill with 1/16″ drill bit
Wooden skewer
Nylon filament
24 gauge wire
Electrical wire or metal ring for hanging
Hanging frame – I used a bracelet

	I chose copper pipe because the metal is soft and easy to manipulate. Cut as many lengths as you want. I started at 2 1/2″ and cut 11 lengths at 1/4″ increments. A jewelry saw is a small hack saw with very thin blades. I had no trouble at all cutting the pipe.

	This handy dandy gizmo came with the ice maker kit. You can use it to start each hole. You put the pipe in and crank the handle until the tip makes an indentation. Complete by drilling straight through the pipe sections.

	Insert the wood skewer into each pipe before you begin texturing. This will keep the pipe’s shape. Turn the pipe as you tap it to make sure you don’t flatten one side.

	I chose a bracelet to use as my frame. It was the right size and I love all the color. Before you choose, decide whether your chimes will hang outside or inside.

	I made a sort of skeleton out of 20 gauge wire with 11 loops to go inside the bottom of the bracelet. I used this to string up the chime pieces. This balances the profile of the chimes. In other words, the bracelet will be the widest part. I used 24 gauge to “sew” the wire piece into the bracelet.

	I had a pieces of electrical wire that I’d been shaping for something else and decided to use it like a crown for the chimes. I used the 24 gauge wire to attach this as well.

	I made this curly que to use as my hanger. Think outside the box when you’re looking for parts!

	I used one long piece of filament to string the top to the hanger. I started with one end tied to the hanger and wove the filament in and around the top, looping on the hanger between each “stitch”. Tie the other end of the filament to the hanger. You can make adjustments easily by tugging here and there.

	The chime pieces should be strung the same way – with one long piece of filament – but it will be easiest if you hang the frame up to work with it. Tie of the string and tug the chimes to adjust the pieces. I’d LOVE to see you chimes if you try this!Email me: candace@cool2craft.com

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Love My Music Frame by EcoHeidi Borchers

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:50 -0700

EcoHeidi Borchers transforms cardboard and craft foam shapes into a music lover’s frame. Topped with a beaded and wire handle, this frame will look pretty hanging on the wall in celebration of your love of music! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s FunCraft Foam Glue
Cardboard frame shape
Cereal box (for patterns)
Ruler and pencil
Scissors
Musical notes and treble clef patterns of your choice
Craft foam – full sheets (color of your choice)
Craft foam – alphabet letters (color of your choice)
Acrylic paint – black and colors of your choice for dry brush technique
Paint brush
Toothpick (to apply glue)
Wire and beads
Hole punch

	For this project, I found this package of 12 cardboard frames at my local Michaels store. This frame concept could be a fun group project!

	I like to make my patterns from cereal box cardboard so that I can keep them and use them for many projects. Trace your music themed icons onto craft foam with pencil.

	Cut along pattern lines with scissors. You’ll notice that I used a bright yellow craft foam but you will be painting over the craft foam so the color of foam does not matter.

	With pencil, lightly draw guide lines approximately 3/8″ apart on front of frame. You will be using these as gluing guides. Glue shapes onto frame.

	I cut my craft foam strips on my paper trimmer so that they are nice and straight.

	Determine spacing and cut the strips to fit around the music notes and treble clef. Glue in place on frame. Add alphabet lettering to create wording of your choice. Let glue dry.

	To color my frame, I first painted the entire surface with black. Let dry. Using a dry brush technique, paint the letters, treble clef and notes. I also used a dry brush to color the strips.To finish the frame, punch holes at the top, insert curled wire, add beads and attach through second hole.Tape picture to the back of frame.

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Duct Tape Guitar Pick Earrings by Linda Peterson

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:50 -0700

The possibilities are endless with the variety of Duct Tape® patterns and colors available. Linda Peterson shows you how to create fashion “rock star” earrings inspired by guitar picks. Add words or other icons, sprinkle with a little glitter and you’re ready to rock and roll! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Duct tape (zebra print and silver)
Plastic container such as from a peanut butter jar or cup
Non-stick scissors
Puffy Paint (I used neon pink)
Glitter glue – silver
Hole punch (1/16”)
Earring wire
Jump ring

	Create a guitar pick template of desired size on a piece of paper (a triangle shape with rounded corners).Apply duct tape to outside of jar. Cut out and apply to back side so that you now have a double sided design.

	Cut guitar pick shape using template as guide.

	Apply glitter glue and let dry. Punch hole for earring wire.

	Add any extra lettering or paint as desired and let dry. Attach earring wire and ROCK ON!

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Cool2Cast Music Collage by EcoHeidi Borchers

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:51 -0700

EcoHeidi Borchers creates a music themed collage featuring Cool2Cast letters, heart and bird. A fun project for the music lover! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Collage Pauge Instant Decoupage
Brush
Wood plaque
Music sheets
Cool2Cast – pre-poured letters and shapes
Rub N Buff – silver
Acrylic paint – colors of your choice
Wire
Beads
Wax paper

	Select sheet music and tear into pieces.

	For my plaque, I used a tile sample board. I first removed the tile samples so that I would have a smooth surface to collage onto. Brush Collage Pauge onto back of sheet music and onto surface of board. Cover entire board (and sides) with collaged papers.

	Paint Cool2Cast letters and shapes desired colors. Let dry. Dip finger into Rub N Buff.

	Rub extra off fingers onto wax paper. Gently rub over letters to highlight. Remember that you do want the background color to show through. Repeat to color all pieces of Cool2Cast. Let dry.

	I created a wire wrap for my Cool2Cast heart and then I drilled a hole into the bottom of my collaged plaque and inserted the wire and swirled the end to hold in place.

	For the bird, I wrapped with wire and a few beads and glued in place at top corner of plaque. To finish the plaque, I glued my painted and antiqued letters in place. Let dry.

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CD & Glass Cupcake Stands by Tiffany Windsor

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:58:51 -0700

Tiffany Windsor is upcycling her CD’s into stylish cupcake stands. Comb your local thrift stores for some cool glass shapes and you’ll be making these for special occasion cupcake displays! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Platinum Bond 7800 All Purpose Adhesive
CD’s
Crop-A-dile
Glass stand (I’ve used glass vases, candle holders, votives, glass lampshades)
Rubbing alcohol and paper towel
Spray paint ( I used flat white)
Embellishments (I used earring backs, flat head pins and beads)

	If you want bead drops on your stand, determine spacing along outside edge of CD. Mark and punch holes.

	I found the coolest glassware at my local thrift store which included votives, candle stands, vases, glass lampshades and more. Clean your glassware with soap and water. Dry completely and wipe with rubbing alcohol to remove any greasy residue.

	Apply Aleene’s Platinum Bond 7800 to top of glassware.

	Lay face down onto back of CD. Let glue dry overnight.

	I like to spray my stands with a flat white spray paint like this example. Then if you decide that you want to paint another color or collage over the surface (or leave them white like I did), you have a nice base to start from. Be sure to use blue masking tape to cover any areas of your glassware that you want to remain clear (I did that on the tall cupcake stand.) Once your paint is dry, insert bead drops.

	On this stand, I glued earring backs along the outside edge of the CD before I spray painted.

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Sunday Afternoon Inspiration...

Susan Brown — Sun, 20 May 2012 11:38:57 -0700

What am I up to today. I'm playing in my studio and I have put together a how-to today which is featured over at the Altered Pages Blog. I have made several Image Transfers using images from AlteredPages.com and Sakura 3D Crystal Lacquer. By using Crystal Lacquer, this process is accelerated by not only hours...but days!

I bring you a step-by-step on making an image transfer.

Please CLICK HERE to view.

I hope you are inspired to go and try something new. Please visit the Altered Pages website for Collage Sheets, Ephemera, Sakura 3D Crystal Lacquer and Terri Sproul Mixers, Rubber Stamps, blank items ready to alter, Project kits and more!

Thanks so much for stopping by! I'm off to visit the craft show : ) Sb

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Polka Dot Feather Earrings by Linda Peterson

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:17:46 -0700

A quick look around will tell you that feathers are fashionable and trendy! In this step-by-step tutorial, Linda Peterson shows you how to make feather earrings using guinea feathers, chain and teardrop beads. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Materials:

Guinea feathers – any color (I purchased a hair clip with lots of feathers)
Chain in length of choice
Earring wire
Jump rings
Black tear drop beads in size of choice
24 gauge Artistic Wire in non-tarnish silver
Jewelry pliers
Round nose pliers
Jewelry wire cutters

	Remove feather(s) from chain. If using purchased feathers, attach a fold-over crimp bead to the feather.

	Cut piece of wire approximately 2-1/2″ – 3″ in length. Slide wire through the hole on the teardrop bead.

	Move bead to about 1/2″ from one end and bend ends of wires upwards. Hold the jewelry pliers where the bead and wires meet. Twist bead several times.

	Snip off shorter wire right above the wire twist.

	Place the concave round nose pliers right above the twist to create a wire loop right above the bead. Wrap the excess wire several times around the twist right above the bead.
	Cut off excess wire. You will now have a bead drop with a wire loop at the top.

	Attach feathers, chain and beaded dangle together with a jump ring. Attach ensemble to earring wire.

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Polka Dot Fabric Stiffened Vase Cover by EcoHeidi Borchers

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:17:46 -0700

EcoHeidi Borchers crafts a fun and fanciful fabric stiffened vase. A favorite vintage Aleene technique takes on a playful theme with polka-dot fabric. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials

Aleene’s Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid
Fabric (print of your choice)
Clay pot
Measuring tape
Pencil
Scissors
Cardboard or plastic squeegee
Rubber band
Wax paper

	To measure the size of fabric that you will need to cover your clay pot, wrap measuring tape along one side, under bottom and back up the other side of clay pot. Add approximately 1-1/2″ to measurement on each side. This extra fabric will create the ruffle along the top of your vase cover. Cut square to measurement. (On my small clay pot, I measured and cut a 9″ square.)

	Fold square in half and in half again.

	Then fold over from corner to corner. Using pencil, mark a slightly curved line from edge to edge.

	Cut along pencil pattern line. You should have a piece of fabric that looks like this and when opened, it should be an almost perfect circle.

	Open fabric and place on wax paper. Find center and place a pencil mark on right side of fabric.

	Turn fabric wrong side up on wax paper. Squeeze Fabric Stiffener from bottle directly onto fabric.

	Pull Fabric Stiffener across fabric with squeegee. This will force the Fabric Stiffener into fabric threads while keeping the fabric smooth. Continue until you have applied Fabric Stiffener to entire fabric on both sides returning excess Fabric Stiffener to bottle.

	Place pot face down on wax paper. Drape fabric over bottom of pot using pencil mark to center fabric on bottom of pot.

	Use rubber band to hold fabric in place along rim of pot, adjusting to gather fabric under rubber band. If you feel that ruffle is too long, you can cut excess fabric at this point, while it is still wet.

	Place pot face down on top of glue bottle (or other raised object) adjusting ruffles. Let fabric dry completely overnight.To finish off pot, add braids, trims and embellishments.

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Eco Gift Wrap from Children’s Books by Heather Valentine

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:17:46 -0700

Heather Valentine just loves the look of a simply wrapped gift! You know the ones that are not too fussy but still look “put together”. Well, today is all about simple wrapping! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Visit Heather’s blog -thesewingloftblog – to see the tutorial

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Polka Dot Bird Magnets and Gift Box by Tiffany Windsor

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:17:45 -0700

In celebration of the Cool2Craft Polka Dots show theme, Tiffany Windsor is going polka dottie with magnets and a gift box. The bird magnets are created with a glue resist technique and acrylic paint on watercolor paper and the wood box is dotted with Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles and craft foil. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:
Aleene’s Magnetic Tacky Dots
Aleene’s Clear Gel Tacky Glue
Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles
Watercolor paper
Pencil with eraser
Acrylic paint (colors of your choice)
Cosmetic sponge (one for each color of paint
Bird and wing pattern of your choice
Sewing machine and thread or fine-line permanent marking pen
Wood box – shape and size of your choice
Craft foil – color(s) of your choice

	To create custom paper design, place a small puddle of Aleene’s Clear Gel Tacky Glue onto wax paper.

	Dip eraser into glue and press onto paper. Repeat to create polka dot pattern on paper. Be sure to work quickly so that glue does not dry on paper.

	Using an up and down pouncing motion, apply first color of paint in striped pattern over wet glue.

	Repeat to create stripes of acrylic paint.

	Immediately dab over wet glue with wet wipes to remove the glue and paint to reveal the white polka dot. Repeat to uncover all white dots. Let paper dry.

	Trace bird and wings pattern to back of paper and cut along pattern lines.

	There are several choices to finish your bird designs – on one example, I stitched along the edge of the bird and wings with ivory colored thread. On another example, I used a fine permanent marker to draw stitching and dots along the edges. Glue wings in place on birds.

	Remove backing paper from Aleene’s Magnetic Tacky Dots and place magnets on back.

	To create matching gift box, paint box inside and out. Let paint dry. Apply Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles to outside of box.

	Press craft foil over Tacky Dot Singles.

	Lift to reveal foiled polka dots.

	Place bird magnets inside box and your gift is ready to wrap!

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New Tutorial

Sydney Cooper — Sat, 12 May 2012 22:24:03 -0700

I have posted my new tutorial on my etsy shop! Come check it out if you love polymer clay!

Learn how to make this pendant and many more using these techniques! I am excited for everyone to see all of my hard work.

www.supercoopercreations.etsy.com

Make pendants like these! Enjoy this post and tutorial...

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ImpressArt Metal Stamps Challenge - Family Tree Stamped Wristband

Carmen Flores Tanis — Sat, 12 May 2012 13:00:13 -0700

Happy Mothers Day, Mom!

I am so delighted to be participating in a special CHA Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop challenge this week hosted by ImpressArt Metal Stamps! Twenty-two designers were given the wonderful opportunity to create projects using ImpressArt metal stamping tools and metal blanks. It was so much fun! The timing was perfect because I was able to make a fun stamped metal and leather wristband for my mom just in time for Mother's Day. It's decorated with all our family names so now Mom can wear her family tree on her wrist! (By the way - that's me in the picture in the top left hand corner.)

This project takes about two hours and here's how to make your own stamped wristband:

Family Tree Stamped Wristband

Materials:

- ImpressArt Metal Stamping Blank - Copper Maple Leaf

- 1 1/2" blank leather wristband

- tiny brads (available in the scrapbooking section at the craft store)

Tools & Supplies:

- ImpressArt Alphabet Stamp Set - Ballroom Boogie - Lowercase

- ImpressArt Design Stamp - Whimsy Heart

- ImpressArt Metal Stamping Hammer

- ImpressArt Steel Stamping Block

- ImpressArt Stamp Straight Tape

- drill w/ a tiny drill bit (I used a 2mm bit)

- piece of wood for drilling on

- green scrubbie

- metal file

- Jacquard Piñata Inks - Burro Brown

- woodburning Tool

- sponge

- brown Shoe Polish

- plastic hammer & bracelet mandrel (for bending copper blank)

- pencil / paper towels / cloth

- super glue

Here's what you do:

1. Use the drill with the tiny drill bit to drill three holes in the ImpressArt Copper Maple Leaf. (You'll use these holes to attach the copper piece with brads to the leather wristband later on.) Place the wood piece under the copper leaf to avoid drilling into your table.

2. Use the metal file to file down the burrs which the drilling caused at the edges of the holes. Also use the file to soften the edges of the leaf.

3. Scrub the front of the copper leaf with the green scrubbie to get a nice brushed metal finish.

4. Time for metal stamping! Use a piece of the ImpressArt Stamp Straight Tape on the copper leaf to help align your text and to also hold the leaf in place on the ImpressArt Steel Stamping Block. Use the ImpressArt Alphabet Stamp Set and ImpressArt Brass Metal Stamping Hammer to stamp the word "family".

5. Add texture to the leaf with the asterisk stamp.

6. Apply a few drops of the Jaquard Piñata Ink Burro Brown to the leaf. Work it into the crevices and then wipe off the excess with a paper towel. This helps the letters and textured areas really pop.

7. On to the leather wristband! Figure out where you like the placement of the copper leaf on the leather wristband and use the pencil to trace the leaf's outline on the leather. Continue to trace more leaf shapes on the leather until you fill the entire wristband.

8. Use the woodburning tool to burn the pencil outlines. Try to keep the point of the woodburning tool constantly moving to avoid overburning the leather. Do the entire wristband.

9. Let's stamp that leather! Dampen the leather with a wet sponge. This hydrates the leather to help the letters stamp clearly.

10. Use the alphabet stamps and the Whimsy Heart stamp to stamp each leaf with a favorite family name. (Don't forget where you will be attaching the copper leaf and you can leave that area on the leather blank.)

11. Drill three holes on the leaf where the copper leaf will be attached. Rub shoe polish all over the wristband and especially work it into the stamped names. Buff to a shine with the cloth.

12. The copper leaf needs a little bit of a bend to have it follow the curve of the wristband when it is worn on a wrist. Bend the copper leaf using the plastic hammer and the bracelet wristband. Just a little bend - you don't need much.

13. Line up the holes in the copper leaf with the holes in the wristband and insert three tiny brads. Spread the tines of the brads against the back of the wristband and secure each one with a drop of super glue.

14. That's it! Wouldn't these be fun in different colors as gifts for anniversaries and weddings? And they are so fun to make! Who doesn't love swinging a hammer?!

Thank you so much, ImpressArt Metal Stamps for this super fun challenge and thank you to fabulous designer Theresa Cifali for coordinating it!

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Be sure to check out more ImpressArt Challenge projects by following along on the Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop. Just click on the "hop forward" or "hop back" buttons on the badge to visit the next site.

Designer Craft Connection
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

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Plus! Now you have a chance to win a Grand Prize from ImpressArt Metal Stamps!

The Grand Prize is valued at up to $120.00 and contains:
1- ImpressArt alphabet set of the winner's choice
1- ImpressArt Steel Stamping Block, small
1- ImpressArt Metal Stamping Hammer
1- ImpressArt Stamp Straight Tape
An Assortment of metal discs
Just head over to ImpressArt's Facebook page and follow the directions: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ImpressArt/155664424487844?sk=app_194975693850063
Deadline to enter May 21st. Good luck and I hope you win!

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Indoor Garden Terrariums by Tiffany Windsor

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:17:35 -0700

When Tiffany Windsor is not in the crafting studio, you will probably find her out in the garden. That’s why she was thrilled with this week’s Garden show theme. Today she is bringing the garden indoors with these easy terrariums which are decorated with pretty ribbon and recycled jewelry pieces. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles
Glass containers (jars, vases, bowls)
Small pebbles
Activated charcoal
Terrarium soil (fine potting soil)
Small plants (air plants, succulents, small ferns)
Moss
Trims (ribbons, jewelry, embellishments)

	Select your glass bowl, jar or vase. Traditional terrariums are tall and deep and you only plant about 5″ up from the bottom. However, I could not find that size glass container at my local thrift stores, so, I decided to select this candy bowl.

	Fill the bottom of your glass container with about 1/2″ pebbles. (I purchased mine from my local pet store.)

	Cover the pebbles with a layer of activated charcoal (also purchased from my local pet store but you can also find in garden department at local hardware store.)

	Select the plants for your indoor garden. Air plants, small ferns and succulents make nice choices.

	Fill in around plants with terrarium soil (fine potting soil).

	If desired, tuck some moss around plants.

	To decorate my glass container, I used Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles to hold my ribbon in place.

	Just adhere a Tacky Dot about every 3″ to the back of the ribbon.

	To add the finishing touch, I glued a piece of jewelry over my knotted ribbon. Enjoy your indoor garden!

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Cup and Saucer Flower by Candace Jedrowicz

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:17:36 -0700

Candace Jedrowicz is planting coffee cup flowers in her sister-in-law’s yard! These flowers will never fade and you never have to cut them back! That’s perfect for a pair of non-gardening coffee lovers! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Platinum Bond 7800 Glue
Ceramic cup and saucer
Electrical wire – 3′ per flower
Large and small glass blobs
3/4″ PVC pipe – 3′ per flower
3/4″ coupler – 1 per flower
Spray paint to cover the pipe and coupler

	Prepare your pipe and coupler by painting it, and your cup and saucer by drilling one hole in the cup and two holes in the saucer.

	The hole in the cup is for drainage.One hole in the saucer is for drainage and the other is for your wire.Make sure your wire hole will be outside of the cup.

	Begin wrapping the wire around a something round – I used a glue bottle.Wrap around 3/4 of the bottle.

	Make a sharp bend in the wire and repeat 5 or 6 times.These will be petals.

	Check to make sure the wire will fit properly, allowing room for the cup and keeping the petals within the outer edge of the saucer.

	Pull the shape together and bend the wire tails down so you can put them through the hole in the saucer.

	Bend the wire tails out of the way and glue the cup in place.

	Glue your large glass blobs inside of the wire petals.Allow the glue to dry.

	Glue the small glass blobs around the rim of the cup.Turn the cup and saucer over to keep the blobs in place while they dry.

	Glue the larger end of the coupler to the bottom of the saucer in the center and allow to dry.Glue the pipe/stem into the coupler.

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Savvy Garden Party Layered Flower Invites by Savannah Starr

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:17:36 -0700

Savannah Starr is planning a garden party! These quick and easy invites are embellished with pretty layered flowers cut with flower dies and the Spellbinders Grand Calibur. Add an Aleene’s Magnetic Tacky Dot to the back of your invites and they’re ready to post on the refrigerator. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Materials:
Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles
Aleene’s Magnetic Tacky Dots
Scrapbook paper, cardstock, or watercolor paper – colors/designs of your choice
Glitter (or dimensional glitter dots)
Die cut machine (I used the Spellbinders Grand Calibur)
Dies (I used Donna Salazar’s Carnation Creations Flowers)

	To prepare to cut your flowers, layer several pieces of scrapbook cardstock. Place dies on top (cutting side down).

	Place your paper and dies onto the bottom cutting pad.

	Cover with the second cutting pad and run through the Spellbinders Grand Calibur.

	To emboss your flower designs, place the cut designs die side down.

	Cover with the cutting pad and plate and run through the Grand Calibur.

	Push out cut and embossed flower designs from dies.

	Layer the die cut pieces and glue together with Aleene’s Tacky Dot Singles.

	Glue in place on your party invites.

	Add an Aleene’s Magnetic Tacky Dot to the back and post your invite on your refrigerator!

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Fabric and Wire Flowers by Linda Peterson

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:17:36 -0700

Fabric and wire flowers are easy, whimsical and fun to make. Linda Peterson uses the tiniest bits of fabric and turns them into colorful flowers that can embellish nearly anything! Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

20 gauge wire from hardware store or 1/16” aluminum armature wire
Needle and coordinating thread color
Scissors
Fabric scraps
Wire cutters
Pliers

	Working off the spool, create a loop with wire of the desired size.

	Bend the wire in the opposite direction to create a second loop. Repeat the above steps to create 5 or 6 loops for the flower. Twist end of wire to secure and clip off any remaining wire with wire cutters.

	Align fabric to the back side of flower frame and stitch into place with an overcast stitch.

	Trim excess fabric from petals leaving a small border

	Repeat for all petals. Use the same technique to create a leaf. Embellish everything with these fun flowers!

.Launched in October 2009, Cool2Craft TV broadcasts weekly internet TV episodes and special live-streaming events featuring industry recognized hosts, reporters, designers, authors and manufacturers. Visit www.cool2craft.com to watch this week’s show via the LiveStream player. Visit our YouTube Channel for project and technique demo videos and check out our current programming schedule for upcoming LIVE-streaming events. Visit www.cool2craft.com for current programming schedule.

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Girlie Garnish Ponies by Heather Valentine

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:17:37 -0700

Heather Valentine stitches up some adorable floral girlie style ponytail holders. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Visit Heather’s Blog to read her tutorial – TheSewingLoftBlog

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CHA Designer Craft Connection - Soda Can Swirl Resin Pendant

Carmen Flores Tanis — Sun, 06 May 2012 23:51:36 -0700

Swirly Whirly

Lots of crafters have huge stashes of fabric all in pretty colors just waiting to be transformed into something fabulous. Me? I blush to say that instead of a fabric stash (although I do have that too) I have a large stash of soda can aluminum. I'm not a big soda drinker but luckily I have friends and family who kindly collect the brightly colored cans for me. I like to kid that my friends give me trash!

So seeing as how the theme for this month's Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop is Easy Jewelry, I decided to make a simple bezel pendant featuring UV resin and shapes cut from soda can aluminum. If you've never worked with UV resin, then this project will show you how easy it is to use.

Waiting To Be Transformed

Soda Can Swirl Resin Pendant

Materials:

- flattened soda can aluminum sheets

- UV resin (I used Gel du Soleil available here)

- bezel (I used a 1 1/4" Large circle bezel by Nunn Designs find it here)

- sheet of cardstock

Tools:

- UV light (available here)

- 1 1/4" circle paper punch (PaperShapers work well to punch aluminum)

- 1/4" hole punch

- super glue

- embossing heat tool

- scissors

- a pin

Here's what you do:

1. Use the circle paper punch to punch one circle from the aluminum and one circle from the cardstock. This is the hard part. Why? Because it's just so difficult to choose between all those pretty soda can sheets!

2. Glue the aluminum circle to the paper circle with the super glue. Weigh it down with something heavy to ensure complete contact between the aluminum and the paper.

The reason I glue the aluminum to the paper is because it's very difficult to glue aluminum alone into a bezel: if the aluminum is at all curled or bent, it wants to pull away from the metal bezel and you can get air bubbles trapped underneath. I like to use the super glue because water-based glues can prevent the resin from curing properly and I can also use it to glue aluminum to aluminum as you'll see in step 4.

3. Use the circle punch, the scissors and the 1/4" hole punch to cut more shapes from the aluminum.

4. Glue the extra shapes onto the aluminum circle and flatten well.

5. When you're happy with your design, put some super glue on the paper side of the aluminum circle and press it into the bezel. Make sure you press it firmly into the bezel to get all the air bubbles out from underneath.

6. Gently pour UV resin into the bezel. Fill the bezel about halfway up then gently rotate the bezel to make sure that the resin flows all the way to the edges. Use the embossing heat tool to gently expand and pop any air bubbles that appear on the surface. Additionally, I like to put the resin filled bezel on a thin metal lid (like from a candy tin) and heat it from below. This will expand any hidden air bubbles and float them to the top where you can lift them out with a pin or pop them with another gentle blast from the embossing heat tool. Be very careful with the embossing heat tool - you don't want to burn the resin or add extra dust.

A Few Pesky Bubbles Ready For Popping

7. Carefully place the resin filled bezel in the UV light opening. I like to leave it there for at least 15 minutes. (This step is called "curing" - unlike water based glues and paints which dry when all the is moisture removed, resins "cure" by a chemical reaction which causes them to harden.)

8. If you'd like a nice domed effect, add another layer of resin repeating the same steps as above to remove any air bubbles and cure again in the UV light.

9. When the piece is done curing in the UV light, add a jumpring and chain and you're good to go!

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You can see lots more easy jewelry ideas by following along on the Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop. Just click on the "hop forward" or "hop back" buttons on the badge to visit the next site.

Designer Craft Connection
[ hop back ] [ hop forward ]

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PLUS be sure to check back Saturday May 12 when 20 designers will be participating in a fun challenge featuring ImpressArt Metal Stamps and Tools! There will be a giveaway and lots of great projects! I can't wait to show you what I come up with!

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Hive Design Team Post: ActivWire Mesh by Activa: Fun Frame!

Cyn Gagen — Thu, 03 May 2012 11:33:49 -0700

For this fun frame, I used some of the ActivWire Mesh that I had leftover in place of the glass that the frame came with (frame is from Dollarama dollar store). This mesh is generally used as an armature for sculpture work but I've been having fun finding alternate uses for it. I painted the edges of the frame with acrylic craft paint to coordinate with the ribbon I chose to cover the rest of the frame with. I glued the ribbon onto the frame with Aleene's Tacky Glue and then embellished with some pieces of large rick rack from Fabricland, also using the Aleene's Tacky Glue to adhere it. For accents, I glued on some buttons from the Michaels' "dollar bins", paper flowers made using EK Success carnation and dahlia punches, and felt flowers I made from scraps of felt I had in my stash.

One of the fun things this frame can be used for is to hold earrings. Simply stick the wire or post through the mesh and there you go! Wouldn't this make a sweet Mother's Day gift? I'm actually going to add hooks to it so that it can hold measuring cups and spoons in my daughter's new kitchen as it's just the perfect colours! (I'd show you but the hooks are on back order - I'll post a picture just as soon as I can!)

You can also just use the wire mesh as a decorative element as it makes a really pretty background detail!

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Lavender Sachets by Heather Valentine

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Tue, 01 May 2012 22:53:45 -0700

Heather Valentine from TheSewingLoft.com shows how to stitch a beautiful embroidered napkin into a lovely lavender sachet perfect for a Mother’s Day gift or anytime. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Be sure to visit thesewingloftblog.com for Heather’s tutorial

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It’s a Mother’s Day Linky Party!

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 02:59:15 -0700

This week’s Creative Muse Linky Party is all about

Mother’s Day!

We want to see your Mother’s Day project Time to share!

So come on down the page because you’re next! Just click below to share the link to your blog. AND, invite your friends to vote for your project. Top liked projects are featured at the top of the list!

Every week is a new theme, so check back often to see what’s up next! Be sure to view the other projects to see what everyone else is doing. Creative inspiration abounds here!

THE FINE PRINT: Please link up only your own projects only, and link to the specific post url… not your blog home page. No giveaways or other promotions. And, don’t forget to link back to Cool2Craft – buttons are below Party Linkies. You’re COOL!
Share the LOVE! After you have added your thumbnail and link to the Linky Party, we ask you to post a Cool2Craft Linky Party Button on your blog/website. You can choose from JOIN ME! or VOTE FOR ME!

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Mother’s Day Floral Mini Art Canvases by Tiffany Windsor

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:39:33 -0700

Tiffany Windsor transforms mini frames into everlasting floral art in celebration of Mother’s Day. With a touch of eco crafting, Tiffany uses dyed paper towels for the colorful background on her canvases. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Collage Pauge
Aleene’s Super Thick Tacky Glue
Mini canvases
Paper towels
Tulip Soft Fabric Paint (colors of your choice)
Small containers with water
Iron
Scissors
Paper flowers
Black permanent marking pen

	Mix paint and water in container to desired color. Fold paper towel in half lengthwise. Next roll the paper towel. Dip one side in first color. Gently squeeze excess paint from paper towel.

	Dip other side in second color. Gently squeeze excess paint from paper towel.

	If desired, add additional colors and squeeze out excess paint. Open the paper towel and set aside to dry.

	When paper towel is dry, iron to smooth out.

	Squeeze Collage Pauge onto front of canvas. Use finger (or brush) to coat the canvas.

	Carefully place one layer of the paper towel into the glue. Squeeze more Collage Pauge over paper towel and use finger to move around. Keep your surface of the paper towel very moist with Collage Pauge. This will keep the paper towel from tearing.Once you have glued the paper towel to the front of the canvas, add Collage Pauge to the side of the canvas and glue the paper towel in place, cutting excess paper towel to create clean corners and edges.Let glue dry completely.

	Place flower on canvas in desired location.

	Trace along outside edge of flower.

	Remove flower from canvas and add more lines along the outside of tracing line.

	Draw stem and leaves on canvas. Once all your lines have been drawn, glue flowers in place with Aleene’s Super Thick Tacky Glue.

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Embossed Flowers in Clay Pot by EcoHeidi Borchers

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:39:35 -0700

EcoHeidi Borchers shares a cool technique for embossing on craft foam to create a pretty flower in pot. This technique can be used to create many different designs and personalized for any occasion. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Aleene’s Fun Craft Foam Glue
Craft foam sheets – colors of your choice
Scissors
Rubber stamps
Heat gun
Floor tile (or other heat resistant surface)
Wooden skewer
Fabric strip
Styrofoam (ball or square to fit into clay pot)
Clay pot
Excelsior
Printed sentiment (on strip of white paper)

	Cut craft foam into flower shape.

	Cut craft foam into circle to fit into center of flower.

	Place craft foam flower onto heat resistant surface. Hold in place with tip of wooden skewer. Apply heat to craft foam with heat gun for several minutes or until foam softens. Be sure to keep the heat gun moving the entire time so that you do not over-heat one area of craft foam.

	Immediately press rubber stamp into craft foam. (This is a step that you can have the kids help with!)

	Your craft foam flower shape should now have an embossed design. Repeat to emboss flower center.

	To create flower stem, apply Aleene’s Fun Craft Foam Glue to end of fabric strip and begin wrapping around wooden skewer. Continue to apply glue as you wrap stem.

	Glue flower center to flower following bottle instructions. Glue stem to back of flower. Print off (or hand-letter) a sweet sentiment on strip of white paper. Keep your sentiment to right of center so that when you wrap around and glue on stem, you can read the sentiment. Fold sentiment around stem and glue in place.

	Glue foam into bottom of clay pot. Apply glue to top of foam and press excelsior into glue. Apply glue to end of stem and press into pot. Let dry.

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Mother’s Day Chicken Wire Basket by Linda Peterson

Tiffany Windsor/Cool2Craft — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:39:35 -0700

Linda Peterson shows you how to turn chicken wire and recycled jewelry into a decorative basket. Use as a gift basket or a decorative way to organize your stuff. Featured on Cool2Craft TV.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Materials:

Chicken wire – any size depending on the size you want your basket (ours is approximately 6 x 9”)
Old bits and pieces of jewelry (optional)
20 gauge stainless steel wire
Wire cutters
Pliers
Metal file (optional)
Spray paint (optional)
Protective gloves (optional)

*Caution*: The chicken wire can get a little naughty and cause cuts, so be careful when cutting and wrapping the wire. Use protective gloves to be safe.

	Cut the desired size from chicken wire. This example is approximately 6″ x 9″. Hint: cut from the selvage edge of the wire to create a finished look. Fold ends together.

	Match pattern and wrap wire ends around opposite side to secure. This creates the cylinder for your basket.

	Fold in the bottom and wrap ends to secure. Cut off any excess wire and make sure there are no sharp edges. File edges smooth if necessary.

	Loop a length of 20 gauge stainless steel wire in your hands two or three times.

	Wrap the end of the wire around the center to secure loops and create a handle. Add additional wire if needed to finish. Bend in half.

	Attach handle to basket with 20 gauge wire.Optional: spray with desired color of spray paint. Allow to dry. You can distress some of the paint away with a little bit of sandpaper to give an aged vintage look.

	Thread wire through jewelry findings and wrap onto basket where desired.

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