Monday, February 25, 2013

New Band I Heart

So, like many twenty-something kids, I was scrolling through my ipod songs with a heavy sigh, I was growing bored of the same 107 songs. (I know, ONLY 107?). I rotated a few songs back in and rotated a few out so as not to get too sick of them. But 34 songs look kind of wimpy. So I reached out to my facebook-a-friend option and posted that I was looking for a new band to focus my musical frustration on. Of all persons, my Mother posted a music video on my wall. (I shouldn't be suprised that she'd find an awesome band, she is very good at that kind of thing.)

I can't tell you how much I Heart this song lately. Give it a listen, I think you will too!
-LL

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Project: Fancy Matchboxes.

Here is a cute way to make that candle in your bathroom feel less awkward.


You will need:
  • tiny matchboxes (I got mine at the drugstore in a pack of 10)
  • ModgePodge
  • a paintbrush
  • decorative paper (I used Origami rice paper from Michael's craft store)
  • scissors
  • a ruler (and pencil)
  • newspaper
  • glitter, sequins, other small decorations (optional)
  • painter's tape
  • metallic spray paint (I used gold)
Step 1: Take the little match box drawer (and matches) out of the matchbox, if you paint the box as is, the little drawer can dry shut.
Step 2: Trace or measure the matchbox on the back of the decorative paper and carefully cut out the covers so each matchbox has one for each large side. Set them FAR away from the next steps.
Step 3:Cut the painter's tape in thin strips just larger than the strike line of the matches. Tape over the strike lines on each skinny side, letting excess tape hang off edge end.
Step 4: Spread out your newspapers somewhere outside or well-ventilated and paint the top and sides of the matchbox covers. Let dry.
Step 5: After they dry, flip them over and paint the other side. You should now have little metallic boxes.
Step 6: When the boxes are completely dry, CAREFULLY peel off the painter's tape. If it tears the strike line, don't stress, just go ahead and paint over that side with the metallic paint. Camouflage is awesome.
Step 7: Paint over one large side of the matchbox cover with the Modgepodge, then place the paper cut out on top and tap it into place with your finger. Once the corners are matched up, paint on a second layer of Modgepodge. Let dry.
Step 8: Repeat on other side.
Step 9: I used glitter glue to dot some of the flowers and give it some sparkles! Then I finished with another layer of Modgepodge.
All done! Now your friends may pretend they need to light that candle just so they can play with the matchbox!



Season of Love

Hello Lovelies!

While my special someone couldn't be with me on Valentine's Day, that's no reason to be gloomy! I hit up my favorite bohemian headquarters (Lowe Mill) and joined the lovely ladies at Green Pea Press (visit them) for their Valentine Printing Workshop where I got to print my valentines the old-fashioned way with a beautiful letterpress. Once the paper is set in the press, a giant wheel on the side is turned to roll ink down the set stamps and then the two sides press together and gracefully pull apart, revealing the design!

Cute, right?
They had a TON of stamps, crayons, cut outs, and ribbon to add some personal flair. My favorite toy was the Martha Stewart Edge Punch (in Arches, top center). It came with a nifty corner punch to complete the pattern around the entire card. While, they are pricey, I am definitely going to get a few for my own craft box!
 
My friends really enjoyed these. I enjoyed making them, it only took an hour or so before work and the workshop was only $5!