The Wandering crafter

Looking for new T- shirts or looking for a place to sale your art and make then in to T- shirts then go to Threadless

2008-06-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

Threadless is a web site and store that take art the you send them and make them in to T- shirts by having people vote on what art should be on T- shirts if your art is picked then you get payed. Here is a look at Threadless by the web is www.threadbanger.com

http://threadless.com/

New stuff I found on fredflare.com that I like that you might like.

2008-05-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

(Hamburger America)Feast your appetites on this: Hamburger
America is a state-by-state guide to 100
of the greatest hamburger joints around
the country! Burger expert George Motz
will tell you everything you need to know
about each spot. Also comes w/ the DVD
of acclaimed documentary "Hamburger
America"! 32pgs. Approximately 7.5"x9
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(sherbet colorblock headphones)Music and cell chats are a treat for your
eyes & ears with these delicious sherbet
colored headphones! Perfect for DJs and
music lovers or connect to a phone. Soft
ear padding for ultimate comfort. Comes
with a standard 2.5mm plug & additional
3.5mm adapters to use w/ other devices
like cellphones, iPods, iPhones & laptops.
Each earcup measures about 3.5" around.
Includes in-line microphone for cell chats.
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(stiloso rojo headphones)
eyes & ears with these rad headphones!
Perfect for music lovers or connect to a
phone. Soft ear padding for comfort and
a leather headband. Slim call button and
in-line microphone plus a standard & an
iPhone compatible adapter. Connect to
cellphones, iPods, iPhones and laptops!
Each earcup approximately 3.5" around.
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(80's cube clock)We can't help but get a little nostalgic
when using this 80's puzzle cube clock!
Just like our fave toy, twist the top row
to switch between date, time, alarm, or
temperature. Requires one AA battery.
Plastic. Measures approximately 3"x3"
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(tetran headphone winder)Tired of tangled headphone wires? You
will love Tetran! Wind the wires around
its spikes and pop the earbuds into its
mouth. Tetran also doubles as a stress
reliever! Roll over tired spots, squeeze
in your hand. Comes on a handy chain!
Choose pink or green. Rubber. About 2"
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(mini rainboot gardens)Let these super cute porcelain rainboots
sprout your fav yummy garden goodies!
Comes with soil and seeds to grow mint,
strawberry, basil or camomile. Collect all
four in these lovely colors! About 4"x3.5"
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(shutter shades)We love to get down like Kanye and so
will you w/ these funky shutter shades!
Many colors to choose from including a
fun glow in the dark style. You'll be the
center of attention while wearing these!
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(500XL GIANT earbud speakers)Prepare to get blown away at your desk
when you hook up this set of oversized
earbud speakers to your computer, CD
or MP3 player! Big fun, booming sound
and a great conversation piece. Comes
w/ audio and USB cable. Requires 3 AAA
batteries (not included) Approx. 4.5"x8"
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(the keepsake USB turntable)Take your old vinyls & convert them to
CD in minutes with a few simple steps!
Enables the recordings of all those old
albums into digital high quality format
and sound. Easily interfaces with a USB
port on any computer. Utilize very easy
to use software and you're set! You can
still enjoy that old style sound with the
three speed turntable. Go on, rock out!!
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("I am not a paper cup")Finally a "paper cup" that doesn't end
up in the trash can! This amazing cup
is eco friendly & reusable. Dishwasher
safe too! Made of white porcelain with
silicone top. Measures about 3.5"x6"
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new stuff that I found on Etsy.com

2008-04-17T22:27:00.000-07:00

Cheese Please Cotton Tote Bag by DogboneArt
Toasty Bread Hand Screen Printed Plushie Toy Food by DogboneArt
Joe Cupcakes in a Bakery Box Screen Printed Plush Gift Pack by DogboneArt
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie and Milk Screen Printed Plushie Set by DogboneArt
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=22042&order=§ion_id=&page=2
Go Colts Lucky Beaded Horseshoe bykrazihorse2
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5780648
Monster Plant Markers by vozamer
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11026777
Mini Fryer Cluck by bubbletime
mickey mouse window decal by bitsywhimsy
Moose Folk art Gourd by gourdsrus
Rooster Gourd by gourdsrus
Cat Gourd by gourdsrus
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5142533

One of my fav craft people.

2008-03-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

No matter where you are in your life, change is one sure constant. As a result, life can be seen as either consistently chaotic or happily adventurous — it’s up to you.

Called the “Queen of Crafts,” Carol Duvall of Home and Garden Television’s (HGTV) The Carol Duvall Show has certainly seen her share of changes yet maintains a positive outlook. As the 10-year run on her series comes to a close, I sat down with Duvall to talk about creativity, change, and how she balances her life.

“Even though I really enjoy making things, I’m not that much of an artist,” says the host, who became an integral part in shaping one of the first original programs on HGTV.

Before there was such a thing as dedicated crafting stores and products, Duvall was simply using her creativity to fashion original objects out of bleach bottles, egg cartons, and cereal boxes. “That’s where my mind still goes when I have a project to create,” says Duvall. “I think ‘What do I have in the house?’”

Having been in the television business for over 50 years, yet not wanting to reveal her actual age, Duvall has never let risk get in her way. “My life has been one opportunity after another, and I have just said ‘yes.’ An opportunity can be seen as a challenge, but I was always willing to accept any opportunity and challenge.”

Early on in her career, Duvall lived in California but her heart was always at her vacation residence in Michigan, her home state. But now she permanently lives at her once-retreat, traveling to California only to tape her show. She says that this Michigan home gives her the peace she always longed for.

“I have a wonderful, new craft room. Also, winter or summer, I have my morning cup of coffee in my outdoor hot tub. When it’s snowing outside, it’s fabulous...even if I have to shovel a path (through the snow) to get to it.”

Duvall has regularly taped dozens of episodes each year since the series inception, making for nonstop work. The series has now filmed more than 1000 episodes.

Speaking about what she does to maximize her downtime, as an avid reader she regularly keeps up with Newsweek, Time, the New Yorker, and reads mystery novels. “At my home, I don’t have a lawn or garden. I’m right on Lake Michigan, and I like sitting near the water.” For Duvall, the looking out across the lake gives her a sense of home and serenity.

Because she is always on the run, she doesn’t like to take breaks. But Duvall’s producers have insisted over the years that she take a break once a week for a massage. Duvall believes that the regular massages have helped her stay strong and well.

Up until a few years ago, Duvall was a regular downhill skier. After hip surgery, however, she says she needs to get back into regular exercise, something she has struggled with for years. “I do not get the exercise I need. I never have. I have been promising myself that for many years. However, I don’t use the excuse anymore of ‘I don’t have any time.’ We all have the same amount of time. Obviously, I don’t want to do it bad enough.”

Family has also been an important part of Duvall’s life. After a daughter-in-law died a few years back, no one wanted to spend Christmas at home because it was too sad. So, moving forward, they decided as a family to go on a cruise up the Amazon. This year, the family will go to New York for the holidays. And, with an adventurous spirit, the next trip might be to Antarctica — seriously!

Duvall continues to accept new opportunities. And, once her show finishes this fall, she will transition to the Shop At Home Network. Expecting to have a little more personal time on her hands, she says she would like to work on projects she has been procrastinating — scrapbooking, organizing important family documents, and writing another book. With an attitude that precedes everything she does, “I appreciate every glorious day.”
http://www.terrawellington.com/Column2004/102704.htm

Grate stuff I found at and on The Warhol store.

2008-03-07T21:45:00.000-08:00

Campbells Bowl by Andy Warhol $50.00
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$ Dollar Sign (Set of 5 )Magnet by Andy Warhol $9.50
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Tomato Soup DJ Bag by Andy Warhol $44.00
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Famous (Set of 9) Magnet by Andy Warhol $12.00
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2 Daisies Nightlight by Andy Warhol $10.95
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Cows Mousepad by Andy Warhol $10.00
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Campbell's Watch (3 Pack) by Andy Warhol $75.00

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Notes (White) Babydoll t-shirt by Andy Warhol $27.00
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To buy all Warhol stuff go to www.warholstore.com

SOME OF MY FAV THINGS ON FREDFLARE.COM

2008-02-28T21:43:00.000-08:00

flowers in a can

Pop the top, add a bit of sunshine and
some water and in a short while you’ll
have grown yourself a pretty bouquet
of flowers in a can! Makes a great gift.
Dahlia, geranium, impatiens or pansy.
Try all four! Item approximately 3.5”
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retro block iPod speaker

Would you have ever guessed that your
Legos would one day be playing all of
your fave tunes?! Fun speaker runs off
of iPod’s energy and no batteries are
required! Plus signs are your speakers
with volume buttons in between! Plug
this compact mini dock right into your
iPod and rock out at your desk! Works
with all iPod Classic, Nano & Mini. Pick
from an assortment of colors! 2.5”x1
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risky business sunglasses

It’s risky business time! Dress up like
your fave celeb from the 80's or just
look RAD and UV 400 protected. Do
you wear your sunglasses at night??
Here's hoping. Measures 5.5”x1.75"
Available in black and white as well
as a selection of fun pop colors and
a surprise mix-up colorblock style!
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pick your nose party cups

It’s not a party unless you’re pickin’
your nose! Play it safe and fake it w/
these hilarious pick your nose party
cups! 24 12oz cups w/ twelve nose
personalities. Come on & get nosey!
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wacky bandages

Remember back when you would shed
many tears over a scraped knee? Now
you’ll be crying if you don’t get to use
one of these wacky bandages! Choose
bacon, pirate, kiss, tattoos or unicorns.
You will get 15 bacon strips, 15 kisses,
12 unicorns, 12 tattoos, 12 pirate style
or 25 crime scene bandages in a 2”x4”
metal tin. Each comes with a free toy!
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retro tv alarm clock

There is a remote chance that you will
just fall in love this retro TV alarm clock.
TV-style alarm clock plays game show
jingles to wake you up. Clock displays
a fun color-changing retro test pattern.
Remote included. Wake-up, it’s TV time!
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mixtape USB memory stick

Are you dreaming of days when you
made mixes for your friends on those
old fashion cassette tapes? Then relive
them with a retro USB memory stick!
Comes in neat cassette tape package.
Stores up to one hour of music. 64MB.
Surprise assortment of mixtape styles!
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Serendipity frozen hot chocolate

Do you love chocolate??? Then this
frrrozen hot chocolate gift set is for
you!! Includes one 5”x4.5” dessert
glass from famous NYC Serendipity
restaurant, 2 packs of world famous
mix, a plastic Serendipity spoon, & 2
straws for sharing. As seen on Oprah!

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www.fredflare.com/

SOME COOL THINGS ON ETsY.COM

2008-02-28T21:16:00.000-08:00

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1AEON.etsy.com

1AEON has really cute and cool bags

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Slowshirts.etsy.com
Slowshirts
Really cool T-shirts
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bolsobonito.etsy.com
bolsobonito
cute bags
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romanticgems.etsy.com
romanticgems
really cute hats
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Jimmy Robbins TOO SORRY FOR APOLIGIES

2007-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

jimmyrobbins.com
Jimmy Robbins (BRAND NEW jam up :-), do you dig?)
http://www.myspace.com/jimmyrobbins

New Years Eve music

2007-12-30T00:29:00.001-08:00

New Years Eve music

Paddington Bear

2007-12-20T18:47:00.000-08:00

http://www.paddingtonbear.co.uk/en/1/home.mxs
Paddington bear was created almost half a century ago by the English writer, Michael Bond.Michael Bond was born in Newbury, Berkshire, England on 13th January 1926. He was educated at Presentation College, Reading. During World War II Michael Bond served in both the Royal Air Force and the Middlesex Regiment of the British Army.

He began writing in 1945 and sold his first short story to a magazine called London Opinion. This experience helped him decide that he wanted to be a writer.

Michael Bond never thought of writing for children but, after producing a number of short stories and radio plays, his agent suggested that he adapt a television play for children.

His first book, A Bear Called Paddington, was published in 1958 by William Collins & Sons (now HarperCollins Publishers). At the time, Michael Bond was working as a television cameraman for the BBC.

After the first Paddington book was accepted, Michael Bond went on to write a whole series and by 1967 his books were so successful that that he was able to give up his job with the BBC in order to become a full-time writer.

In 1997 Michael Bond was awarded to OBE for services to children’s literature. He is married with two adult children and lives in London, not far from Paddington Station.
Michael Bond recalls in his own words how Paddington first came into being:

"I bought a small toy bear on Christmas Eve 1956. I saw it left on a shelf in a London store and felt sorry for it. I took it home as a present for my wife Brenda and named it Paddington as we were living near Paddington Station at the time. I wrote some stories about the bear, more for fun than with the idea of having them published. After ten days I found that I had a book on my hands. It wasn’t written specifically for children, but I think I put into it the kind things I liked reading about when I was young."

Michael Bond sent the book to his agent, Harvey Unna, who liked it and after sending to to several publishers it was eventually accepted by William Collins & Sons (now Harper Collins). The publishers commissioned an illustrator, Peggy Fortnum, and the very first Paddington book "A Bear Called Paddington" was published on 13th October 1958.

In 1965, after writing several Paddington titles Michael Bond retired from his job as a cameraman with the BBC, a job he held for many years, in order to write full time.

Of Paddington himself Michael Bond says:

"The great advantage of having a bear as a central character is that he can combine the innocence of a child with the sophistication of an adult. Paddington is not the sort of bear that would ever go to the moon - he has his paws too firmly on the ground for that. He gets involved in everyday situations. He has a strong sense of right and wrong and doesn't take kindly to the red tape bureaucracy of the sillier rules and regulations with which we humans surround ourselves. As a bear he gets away with things. Paddington is humanised, but he couldn't possibly be 'human'. It just wouldn't work."

The Paddington books have sold more than thirty million copies worldwide and have been translated into thirty languages.

Michael Bond continues:

"I am constantly surprised by all the translations because I thought that Paddington was essentially an English character. Obviously Paddington-type situations happen all over the world."
Almost everyone knows that Paddington is a bear who usually wears a duffle coat,a rather shapeless hat and, on occasions, Wellington boots. Many people also know that his favourite food is marmalade and that he orginally comes from Darkest Peru.

However, do you know how he made his first journey to England, when he celebrates his birthday, why there have been so many different images of him over the years or which is his favourite charity?

To find out the answers to these and many other questions, try clicking on the choices on the left of this page

Holiday Music

2007-12-16T10:01:00.001-08:00

Holiday Music

Holiday Shoebox: Switchplates, Cigar Box Purse

2007-12-14T17:06:00.000-08:00

The Shoebox call today was in response to a holiday suggestion sent in by Connie Odkie of Port Richey, Fla., who apparently has the Christmas spirit along with Christmas switch plates in every room of the house. Connie prefers using metal plates rather than the plastic ones because she feels that they are stronger. Also, she likes to cover the back of the plates...even though they won’t be seen...and thinks that the raised lines on the back of the plastic covers would put air bubbles in the clay. Spoken like a true crafter.
Connie went on to mention that the one thing it is important to remember is that the metal plates are covered with an almost invisible plastic cover. You may not be able to see it, but be sure to peel it off before applying any clay.

Generally Connie starts by covering the plate with what will be the background clay and bakes that according to manufacturer’s directions. When that has baked and cooled, then she goes to work adding the decorations--a decorated Christmas tree, a wreath, a gingerbread man, etc.--and then bakes the piece again. The one exception was the one with the snowman--that she did all at one time and baked it. With the others, she was able to sand the background and buff it to get the sheen she wanted before adding the extras and baking them.

Another add-on that Connie adds on is glitter. She sometimes uses clay with glitter in the clay itself, but in other cases she adds the glitter to the clay. A case in point was the Christmas tree to which she added green embossing glitter to give the tree extra sparkle. Very appropriate. A moving Christmas tree is what Maureen Clifford of Frankfort, Ill., sent to us in the form of a decorated cigar box purse. Maureen first painted the cigar box a pretty glittery gold before adding a little wooden tree that she had purchased at the craft store and painted green before gluing it to the purse. Then she decorated it like crazy with all manner of glittery and shiny things, including old earrings and necklace parts. Miniature gift packages were glued underneath the tree nestled in a bed of sparkle-plenty seed beads, which were placed in great profusion along the bottom. It looked like it would not only be fun to carry during the holiday season but great to put on a shelf or end table for room décor in between times.
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/cr_occasions_december/article/0,1789,HGTV_3270_3313385,00.html

Crafts Flare Part 1,2,3,4 Fred Flare show

2007-12-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

What Happens When You Mix Technology and Crafts?

2007-12-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

check out www.dl.tv!
The Maker Faire!

We had mad fun at the Maker Faire 2007. Hosted at the San Mateo Fairgrounds, the two day event featured everything from DIY electronics to a life size (and mostly working) recreation of the game Mouse Trap. Wooden bicycles roamed about (along with the delightfully odd creations of Cyclecide, at least one steam powered car, and a lot of remote control ... stuff.)

Throw in the crafts section (sewing, knitting and prints... oh my!), hands on activities with everything from button repair to home sized computer controlled plywood cutters, and, well, you've got some serious fun. (l

Polymer Clay Butterflies - Crafts Beautiful November 2007

2007-12-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

look what I found wandering on you tube

Christmas clipart

2007-12-05T19:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas clipart

Puzzle Wreath Christmas Decoration

2007-11-28T18:09:00.000-08:00

36 puzzle pieces from a used jigsaw puzzle
green high gloss acrylic or lacquer spray paint
small jar of high gloss red acrylic paint
small round paint brush
newspaper
glue
red ribbon
gold braid string

Lay out the puzzle pieces on newspaper.
Spray paint the pieces with the green paint - apply 3 coats allowing each coat to dry the prescribed time listed on the can.
Next lay out a ring of 9 pieces (painted side up) making sure that each piece is touching the other then make another layer gluing 9 pieces on top of the first nine staggering them so that each top piece is over lapping two of the bottom pieces. (See illustration)
Continue the process until there are 4 layers of 9 pieces. Allow the construction to dry overnight (if you are using a glue gun you can continue with next step after the glue has cooled)
With your red paint, dab three little dots of color in bunches around the wreath to make it appear that the wreath has berries. (See illustration)
Attach red ribbon with glue
tie gold string to top of ornament and hang

GRATE USE OF OLD PUZZLES WITH MISSING Puzzle PIECES.

Baby Food Jar Christmas Tree

2007-11-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

Create a radiant decoration for your window by crafting this baby food jar Christmas tree. It makes a glowing multicolor display that will look both inviting and fun to passersby or arriving holiday guests.

What you'll need:
33 (4 oz.) Baby food jars with lids
2 strings of gold star wire garland (used to decorate packages)
Strand of 35 miniature Christmas tree lights
Gold or green spray paint
Hot glue gun
Hot glue (dries clear not white)
Wire clippers
Sturdy box cutter

Spray paint outside of baby food jar lids. Let dry.

Hot glue the baby food jars arranging them as in photo.
Using the wire clippers, cut 33 pieces of the gold star garland in about a 7" length.
Wind each piece of garland in a circle to fit inside the jars. Place in the bottom of each jar.
Take each baby food jar lid and make a large "V" cut using the box knife. (see close-up photo)
Screw on all the lids onto the jars.
Place the first light on the string of lights through the cut in the lid of the top jar.
Place the remaining lights in the jars, weaving back and forth for the rows.

When you get to the last row of the tree (before the tree trunk), you will need to double up 2 lights in 2 jars in order to get the lights into the tree trunk.

Plug in your tree and enjoy the beautiful lights!

Tips:

You may want to find a way to prop your tree on a table in front of an exterior window. It makes for a very beautiful display! Enjoy! Merry Christmas!

Notes:
Please be careful! The jar lids are now very sharp!

Holiday Music

2007-11-28T17:28:00.001-08:00

Holiday Music

crafters on myspace.com

2007-11-18T12:59:00.000-08:00

This week while wandering the web of myspace.com I found Austin Craft Mafia http://www.myspace.com/austincraftmafia www.austincraftmafia.com
If you live in LA CA also known as HOLLYWOOD check out Hollywood Craft Mafia http://www.myspace.com/hollywoodcraftmafia or to by stuff fram them go to hollywoodcraftmafia.etsy.com for buying crafters stuff go to http://www.myspace.com/etsy
If you live in San Diego go to San Diego Craft Mafia at http://www.myspace.com/sandiegocraftmafia
If you are looking for a good craft fair go to
Stitch http://www.myspace.com/stitchaustin

also try theys CraftNight at http://www.myspace.com/craftnight
Monsters of Teen Craft http://www.myspace.com/monstersofteencraft
Urban Craft Uprising http://www.myspace.com/urbancraftuprising
Crafty Wonderland http://www.myspace.com/craftywonderland
CRAFT Magazine http://www.myspace.com/craftzine
IN CRAFT WE TRUST http://www.myspace.com/incraftwetrust
Felt Club http://www.myspace.com/feltclub
Renegade Craft Fair http://www.myspace.com/renegadecraftfair
Sublime Stitching * Jenny Hart http://www.myspace.com/sublimestitching

Thread Heads: Stitch Austin

2007-11-16T10:03:00.000-08:00

Thread Heads head over to Austin, TX for the Fifth Annual Stitch Fashion Show and Guerilla Craft Bazaar, hosted by four members of the Austin Craft Mafia. Rob and Corinne get interviews from a bunch of really great vendors and First Samples founder, Shaunna, shows us how-to take an old sweater and turn them into a pair of sweet new leg warmers.

ttp://www.threadbanger.com/episode/THR_20071116

Polymer Clay MP3 Player Holder

2007-11-16T09:52:00.000-08:00

Visit DIY's Craft Lab to learn how to create fun polymer clay MP3 player holder.

The project begins by creating a base for the MP3 player.
Project designed by Randy Townsend.

Materials:

one 6 oz. Size Good & Plenty candy box
two 2 oz. blocks of Premo polymer clay: black
one 2 oz. bottle of Translucent Liquid Sculpey
one 2 oz. block Premo polymer clay: gold
one 2 oz. block Premo polymer clay: cadmium red
2 oz. bottle of Translucent Liquid Sculpey
4" of 20-gauge black craft wire
48" of black cotton twine
polymer clay varnish
ruler
craft knife
wax paper
Sculpey Super Slicer
3" x 5" index card
work surface (ceramic or granite tile recommended)
pasta machine (Atlas brand recommended)
oven
oven mitts
oven thermometer
flat baking tray
flexible rubber stamp sheet with tiger stripe pattern (size: 4-1/4" x 5-3/4")
cornstarch
acrylic rod
round nose pliers
bamboo skewer
1 sheet of 200 grit wet/dry automotive sandpaper
1 sheet of 400 grit wet/dry automotive sandpaper
cyanoacrelate glue
#4 flat paintbrush (to apply varnish)
Construction of I-Pod Cardboard Case

Empty the candy box. Measure 4-1/4" up from the base of the box, and then evenly cut the top off using a craft knife.

Condition the two blocks of black clay and roll them into two sheets using the fourth thickest setting on the pasta machine (figure A).

Cut a straight edge along the bottom of your clay. Cut a perpendicular straight edge along the right side of your clay (figure B). Align your box with the cut corner of the clay. Using the cut box as a guide, wrap the clay around the box completely, then cut a clean edge to make a straight seam where the clay comes together. Unwrap the clay from the box and set the clay aside.

Coat all sides of the box with Translucent Liquid Sculpey. Wrap the rectangular sheet of clay around the box. Smooth the seam and make sure the top and bottom are neatly trimmed. Cut a small rectangle piece of clay 1" wide and 3" long from the original sheet. To cover the base, stand the bottom corner of the box on the corner of the small rectangular piece and trim the top and side edge so all sides are flush.

Note: If you have trouble attaching the bottom, it may be easier to bake the wrapped box first (20 minutes at 275 degrees).

Once cooled cut the clay rectangle for the bottom and attach it to the baked portion of the box with liquid clay. Bake again and cool.

Using a 3" x 5" index card, Cut out a rectangular template for the display and controls window that is 3-3/8" long and 1-3/4" wide.

Center the template over the front of the black box 3/8" from the bottom. Mark the outline of the template with a pencil.

Cut a hole in the front of the box tracing the template outline using a craft knife to create a viewing window for the display and controls (figure C).
Note: You can place two blocks of clay inside the box to support the sides while you are cutting out the display hole. This will prevent you from crushing or bending the box while cutting the hole.

FOR MORE DIY CRAFT LAB CRAFTS GO TO http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/shows_dclb/0,3110,DIY_27278,00.html

Fruit and Vegetable Hats for babys

2007-11-13T23:14:00.000-08:00

What an adorable bunch of little fruit and vegetable hats viewer Julie Watson knitted and sent to us, to share with you. Inspired by a single photo of a strawberry hat that she saw in a magazine, Julie knitted and could have filled an entire produce department with a lemon, peach, eggplant, strawberry, and pumpkin hats. All were identical except for the pumpkin, which had ridges.
We had to make one small change. The basic hat directions that Julie developed were simple enough to give on television, but when it got down to describing how she knitted in the leaves, it got a little involved. Consequently, we took the liberty of making the leaves of felt. The fruit or vegetable that you make is determined by the yarn color. Here is what Julie did:

Materials:

one 3 oz. skein 4-ply yarn
size 6 knitting needles
yarn needle
green felt for stem and leaves

Steps:

Cast on 85 sts. Knit in stockinette st (knit one row, purl one row) until piece measures between 6" and 7" deep (figure A).

Decrease every 4th stitch every row (knit and purl rows) until only 12 sts. remain (figure B). The math won't always work out to decrease every 4th st., but keep the decreases as even as possible until you get to the 12 sts. Please note: The viewer who sent these instructions wrote to decrease every 3rd st. which is what I said on the air. However, she had meant: knit 3 sts, decrease, knit 3 sts. decrease, etc.

Cut yarn, leaving a substantial tail, and thread this back through the 12 sts. still on the needle. Gather closed and secure. Bring the two ends of the knitted piece together, and sew or weave closed.
On a strawberry hat, make black yarn French knots throughout the body of the hat.
Roll 1-1/2" x 2" felt strip into a stem, and sew into place at the top of the hat (figure C). Cut several leaves and stitch in place.

Preserved Baby Footprints / baby footprints in glass

2007-11-13T21:02:00.000-08:00

Materials:
baby footprint
non-toxic black inkpad
white sheet of paper
stencil making material
stencil cutter
black permanent marking pen (Sharpie)
2 pieces of clear float glass
scrap piece of glass
powder enamel
powder enamel screen
glasscutter
glass breaker pliers
copper wire
wire cutters
kiln
1/8" ribbon

1. Press the baby’s foot onto the inkpad.
2. Place the baby’s foot onto a white sheet of paper to make an imprint.
3. Place a sheet of clear stencil making material over the paper with the imprint and trace the baby footprint on the stencil making material.
4. Place the stencil material on a scrap piece of glass. Using the hot stencil cutter cut the template by burning through the stencil material.
5. Peel away the excess pieces of stencil material leaving the cutout footprints.
6. Place the template onto the float glass.
7. Pour powdered enamel into the sifting screen and sift the enamel onto the template and the float glass.
8. Carefully remove the template.
9. Make a ring out of the copper wire.
10. Place the ring of copper wire onto the top center of the baby foot piece of glass.
11. Place the second sheet of glass over the baby’s stenciled footprint and place both pieces in the kiln.
12. Fire the baby footprint piece and let it cool.
13. Tie a piece of 1/8-inch ribbon through the wire loop. Hang your preserved baby footprint piece.

Floppy Disk Photo Cube

2007-11-13T20:47:00.000-08:00

You Need:

6 Old 3½" Floppy Disks
Blank Index Stock
6 Photos You Can Cut
Low Temp Glue Gun
Double Stick Tape

Instructions:

Lay one disk face down on your work space. Use a low temp glue to attach one disk to each side and a disk on the top.

Cut six pieces of index to 2-1/8" x 2-3/4". Use double stick tape to attach one to each floppy. Cut photos to 1-7/8" x 2-1/2" Use double stick tape to attach photos in the center of rectangle index leaving a white border around each picture.

Clay Pot Turkey

2007-11-13T20:29:00.000-08:00

Designed by Amanda Fomaro
This little turkey is quite simple to make. The cost is minimal and he makes a great table decoration or hostess gift for Thanksgiving dinner

You need:

One 1-1/2" Diameter Wooden Ball
One 2-1/4" Diameter Clay Pot
3 or 4 Feathers
6" Ribbon
Button
6" Raffia
Tacky Glue
Black Finetip Marker
Small and Large Paintbrushes
Acrylic Paints in Brown, Tan, Mustard Yellow, Red, and Rose
Clear Coat Spray

Instructions:

For Body
Place newspaper down on work surface. Turn clay pot over and glue wooden ball to bottom of pot. When glue is dry, use large paint brush to paint entire the outside of the clay pot and the entire wooden ball with brown paint. Let dry and apply a second coat. When dry, use large paint brush to fleck on spots of tan paint for effect. This does not have to be perfect! Using small paint brush, paint on feet and beak, use the photo as a guide if needed.

For Head
Use small paintbrush to paint on the gobbler in red. Dab large paintbrush or stencil dotter in rose paint. Dab onto newspaper or paper towel until all excess paint is removed. Gently dab onto "cheeks" of turkey's face. With the black finetip marker, drawn on eyes and dot nostrils onto beak. Spray entire surface with clear coat.

Finishing Touches
Glue miniature bow tie in place, or fashion a simple bow out of ribbon and glue in place. Trim excess to suit your tastes. Tie a piece of jute or raffia through the holes of the green button. Tie a bow and trim excess. Glue button to the body below the bowtie. Glue feathers to the back so that they stick up above the back of the turkey's head.

2007-11-13T16:57:00.000-08:00

Corinne's hat she was wearing on last weeks episode of thread banger , so this week they are hanging out with and getting a lesson from its creator at Humble Bumble B. Plus, we'll take a closer look at some viewer questions and comments.

Some of my fav music

2007-11-07T20:40:00.001-08:00

some of my fav music

Arts & Crafts: Halloween

2007-11-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

Arts & Crafts: Halloween

How to Choose a Brush for Painting Glass

2007-11-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

How to Choose a Brush for Painting Glass

Learn how to choose a brush for painting glass in this free arts & crafts video. Part of a series - see more at ExpertVillage.com

halloween

2007-10-15T18:06:00.001-07:00

halloween music and sounds

Mr. Bottle Bones

2007-10-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

CRAFT MATERIALS:
8 or 9 clean, plastic gallon jugs
String
Scissors
Craft knife
Glue gun
One-hole punch
Neon paint (optional)

Time needed: Under 1 Hour
1. To make the head, choose a jug with a pair of circular indentations opposite the handle and turn it upside down. In the corner, opposite the handle, cut out a large, smiling mouth, centered under the indented "eyes." Make two small slits in the top of the head and tie a loop of string through them for hanging the finished skeleton.

2. For the chest, cut a vertical slit down the center of a right-side-up jug, directly opposite the handle. Cut and trim away plastic to make the rib cage. Glue the head and chest together at the "neck" by connecting the spouts of the two jugs with a thick band of hot glue. Hold the jugs together for a few minutes until the glue cools.

3. To form shoulders, cut off two jug handles (leaving a small collar on the ends) and attach them to the chest section with hot glue. Punch a hole at one end of each shoulder.

4. For hips, cut all the way around a jug, about 4 1/2 inches up from the bottom. Take the bottom piece and trim away a small smile shape from each side to make a four-cornered shape. Punch holes in two opposite corners.

5. Make a waist by cutting out two spouts, leaving a 1/2-inch collar on each. Glue the spouts together and let dry. Then, hot-glue the waist to the bottom of the chest and the top of the hip section.

6. Form arms and legs by cutting eight long bone shapes from the corner sections of three jugs (cut into the curved shape of the jug to make the bones even more realistic). From four of these bones, cut out the center to make lower limbs (forearms and shins). Punch a hole through the ends of all eight bones. Use string to tie two arm sections to each shoulder and two leg sections to each hip.

7. Let kids trace their hands and feet onto the side of a jug, then cut out the shapes. Punch holes in the hands and feet, and tie them onto the arms and legs.

Variations:
Paint Mr. Bones a neon color to make him appear to glow.

Watch a step-by-step video demonstration of this craft at
http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=10622

2007-10-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

CRAFT MATERIALS:
Black pipe cleaners
Lollipops
Googly eyes
Glue

Time needed: Under 1 Hour
1. Holding all four pipe cleaners, center them at the base of the pop and wrap them around the stick once so there are four legs on each side.

2. Bend the pipe cleaner ends to form eight feet.

3. Glue on googly eyes.

More Halloween Recipes »

Watch a step-by-step video demonstration of this craft at
http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=10079

Ghost Luminaries

2007-10-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Ghost Luminaries

Greet this year's trick or treaters with a frightfully fun lighted path to your door. Kids can make these fun luminaries with very few supplies and plenty of imagination. Get started today!

NOTE: If you prefer to stay away from candles and flames, check out discount department stores, craft stores and party supply shops for glow lights and other alternate illuminating devices.

You Will Need:

clean, empty jars
white acrylic paint
black acrylic paint
black Sharpie marker
tea light candles or other illumination
Directions

Paint jars with white acrylic paint. Let dry completely then add a second coat. Let dry, preferably overnight. Use a black Sharpie marker to draw on eyes and mouths, then fill in with black acrylic paint. Let dry completely. Add glow lights, tea light candles, votive candles or any other illumination and line them up along your sidewalk for a fun and spooky entrance.

KNITPRO

2007-09-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

Knitpro is a web applicaton that translates digital images into knit, crochet, needlepoint, and cross- stitch patterns. Just upload jpeg,gif or png images of whatever you wish -- portaits, landscapes, logos... and it will generate the image pattern on a grid sizable for any fiber project.

go to www.microreolt.org/knitpro.htm

Build a Single Speed Bike

2007-09-20T15:38:00.000-07:00

Make your bike into a single speed hipster bike! This week Dave Neff joins me to take some old broken bikes and mash them up into a new radical ride. Everbody's experience will be different, but we rebuilt the bottom bracket, put new wheels on, chopped and flipped the handlebars, took off one of the front chain rings and put on a single speed bmx-style gear in the back. We did this because we made a bike out of parts found in the trash, but if you've got a working ten speed, you can just strip the derailleur, chop and flip the handlebars and switch out the back gears for a single speed freewheel gear.

This week the Make: PDFcast is a comicbook pdf all about converting your old trashy bike into a snazzy single speed bike. I went a little nuts making it up in Comic Life. There's lots of good tips in this pdf, but honestly, your best bet is to just get some tools and go to town on your bike. It's always more fun to do this with more people. This weekend, get some friends together for a bike hacking party.
go to http://www.makezine.com/blog/archive/2007/06/build_a_single_speed_bike.html
to see the video on how to make a bike

Recycled Overalls Bag

2007-09-15T00:12:00.000-07:00

Recycled Overalls Bag Child's overalls Sewing Machine ScissorsFor this project you will need a pair of old children's overalls from a thrift store. The larger the overalls the bigger you bag will be. If your overalls has any pockets on the front it will make a great little mobile pocket on the outside of your bag. Start by cutting the leg's off, making sure to cut above the crutch or you will end up with a tuft. Turn the bag inside out and using an overlocker or a sewing machine sew across the bottom to close it up. Make sure you do 2 zig zag stitches on a sewing machine to strengthen it. Trim off any threads and turn the right way out

2007-09-14T21:14:00.000-07:00

Recycled Overalls Bag

Child's overalls Sewing Machine Scissors

For this project you will need a pair of old children's overalls from a thrift store. The larger the overalls the bigger you bag will be. If your overalls has any pockets on the front it will make a great little mobile pocket on the outside of your bag. Start by cutting the leg's off, making sure to cut above the crutch or you will end up with a tuft. Turn the bag inside out and using an overlocker or a sewing machine sew across the bottom to close it up. Make sure you do 2 zig zag stitches on a sewing machine to strengthen it. Trim off any threads and turn the right way out.

iPod Retro Radio

2007-09-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

iPod Mini, Vintage Radio ,Screwdriver, Foam

How to make a vintage radio iPod Step one: Find your radio. It might be helpful to bring your ipod with you, for sizing purposes. I got mine at a thrift store, but they can easily be found at swap meets and yard sales. This step is the most fun! keep your eyes out for other cool craft projects while you're there. Step two: Take it apart. My radio was held together with four phillips-head screws. After removing them, the case was conveniently held together by plastic tabs that were already built in. This made my life much easier, but it isn't necessary--If your radio is held together only by screws, you'll have to find a way of securing it. Small hinges and hooks can be found at any hardware store. Step three: Gut it. I'd originally planned on hooking the ipod directly into the speaker, but had overestimated the depth of the case--the ipod wouldn't fit with the speaker left intact. If your radio does fit, wiring the ipod to a speaker is fairly simple. If you're comfortable stripping wires you can probably figure out how to cut up an old pair of headphones and make a speaker connection. If not, it's probably best you don't try. Find a geek. Step three: Gut it. I'd originally planned on hooking the ipod directly into the speaker, but had overestimated the depth of the case--the ipod wouldn't fit with the speaker left intact. If your radio does fit, wiring the ipod to a speaker is fairly simple. If you're comfortable stripping wires you can probably figure out how to cut up an old pair of headphones and make a speaker connection. If not, it's probably best you don't try. Find a geek.Step four: Remove any extra stuff. My radio had a piece of plastic that blocked the ipod. I used needle nose pliers to snap it out. Once you have enough room for the ipod: Step five: Foam it up. The foam I used was left over from an air conditioner install. It has adhesive on one side, and is perfect for the job. You can probably find it at Home Depot. Any soft foam will work, though--break out the glue gun. The foam's job is to keep the iPod steady--we don't want it bouncing around. If your foam is too thick, scissors do a pretty good job of cutting it down to size Step six: Route the cables. If you want to go crazy here, you could try to hook the radio's headphone jack up to the ipod's own jack. This is pretty simple if you can use a soldering gun. If not, skip it. I didn't bother, because I wanted to use the ipod's remote. I ran the remote into the battery compartment, where it fits perfectly. When I listen to the ipod using the case, my headphones plug into the jack on the remote. Step seven: Go show off. Ride the subway, letting others know how hip you are, rocking the 80s radio. special bonus: you probably won't get mugged Step seven: Go show off. Ride the subway, letting others know how hip you are, rocking the 80s radio. special bonus: you probably won't get mugged This Project was Designed and Created by Taylor Finley Taylor Finley is a recent film school dropout in Hollywood, California. He's currently employed there as a writer's assistant." and might I add he is very creative and we love this iPod Project. http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=807

2007-09-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

TV and movie actor Ed Begley, perhaps the greenest man in Tinsel Town, rides his electric car to the Academy Awards and powers his home with the sun and his stationary bike. But Living with Ed and his environmentalist passion isn't always a walk in the park for wife, Rachelle. This first-of-its-kind reality green show chronicles life with an earth-friendly fanatic with humor and heart. Check out this fresh unscripted docu-soap about the lifestyle of a diehard activist who puts his money and his time where his mouth is 24/7 definitely not recycled tv.

Living with ED is HGTV Mondays 10:30pm e/p

about Thread Heads and what it is

2007-09-14T17:50:00.000-07:00

2007-09-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

http://makezine.com/

A two-day, family-friendly event that celebrates arts, crafts, engineering, science projects and the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) mindset. It's for creative, resourceful folks who like to tinker and love to make things. We call them Makers.

The next Maker Faire is in Austin TX on oct 20-21 of 2007

go to https://store.makezine.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=39 to get tickets

Pre-order tickets now available

All tickets & passes will be mailed in mid-late September.

Children 3 years and under are free!

Want to camp at Maker Faire Austin?

Weekend tickets holders can purchase a camping pass for a price of $25 per adult & per student over the age of 18.Camping passes for those under 18 who have purchased a weekend ticket and are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian are free. Children 3 and under are free but must have a wristband.
Click the "more info" link for the tickets you want to purchase to access camping pass options.
If you purchase a tent camping pass here are some things to consider: 1) You are reserving a space in the Maker Faire campground - a very rustic area of the fairgrounds. 2) Camping is available to weekend ticket holders only and must be purchased at the time of ticket purchase. 3) You will receive a weekend camping wristband when you receive your Maker Faire tickets in the mail4) You must be 18 or older to purchase a camping pass 5) Everyone entering the campground must have a camping pass (wristband), including students (under the age of 18), youth and children. 6) Tickets, camping guidelines and wristbands will be mailed to you mid-September

some of my fav craft books

2007-09-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

New Art City,Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall,175 Easy-to-do Everyday Crafts,Friday Night Knitting Club,Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles,Generation T:,Making Birdhouses,Organizing Your Craft Space,Sock and Glove,Best Ever Craft Book for Kids,Cards That Pop-up, Flip & Slide,Dog Food,The Natural Knitter,Rip It,Letter Art (American Girl Library Series),Tease,Knitting on the Road,1,000 Artist Trading Cards,Simple Sewing with a French Twist,Digital Photo Madness! 50 Weird & Wacky Things to Do with Your Digital Camera,Stupid Sock Creatures,The Ultimate Peter Rabbit,Ductigami The Art of the Tape,Plush-o-Rama Curious Creatures for Immature Adults,How to Start a Home-Based Gift Basket Business,Alphabetica An A to Z Guide for Collage and Book Artists,Paper Crafts and Stamp It Presents the Ultimate Paper Crafts Collection,Knitted Toys,20-Minute Crafts,Polymer Clay for the First Time

make a arm warmer from socks

2007-09-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

Arm Warmers
Learn how to make your very own arm warmers out of Socks! That's right - socks. Just remember to wash then first, so they aren't smelly!
Materials Needed:
· a long pair of socks (I used tube socks)
· Scissors
· A needle
· Thread that matches the color of the socks
How to:
1. Take the pair of socks.

2. Then cut off the toe area of the socks, so it's a straight line across the top.

3. Then cut a half circle for your thumb (just under the area you cut off) on the side.

4. Make a straight stitch around both of the holes you cut. This is so they don't fray.

Hey! Guess what?! You've finished! Now put them on and pull this up. Put your new arm warmers together with a cute combo, tank (or another top that doesn't have sleeves so everyone can see your arm warmers, skirt, sk8r shoes (they're sooooo comfortable). Check out my combo

craft web sits

2007-09-13T23:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.threadbanger.com/

http://www.jetsetshow.com/

http://www.etsy.com/index.php

my fav musice

2007-09-13T22:52:00.001-07:00

my fav musice

welcome

2007-09-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to The Wandering Crafter