Back To School Writing Set by Julie Beltramo

Take a look at this Back to School Writing Set by Julie Beltramo.  This writing set is the perfect Back to School gift for any teacher’s desk! The Covered Junior Legal Pad is all set up with a convenient little spot to hold a special pencil along its edge. The Open Top Card Box holds 50 easy-to-reach-for Grid Cards for a quick note. And top off the gift with the coordinating card and wrapped up extra pencils!  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of August!

The Open Sea Ensemble by Bev Adams

Ahoy Matey!  Check out The Open Sea Ensemble by Bev Adams  This set is a perfect way to celebrate the man in your life.  Whether that’s your spouse or a teen, he’ll love the nautical theme.  This set includes a gift box, card, and banner.  The pillow box has a window view of a ship at sea and there’s room for a gift card or small gift.  Continue the theme with the coordinating banner.  Feeling like you want to sail off and make this set yourself? Then head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of August!

Allium Art Journal Page for PCL

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  There's Beauty In Taking Care Of What Relies On You
As I've been watering the garden the past few days I've noticed how wonderful it feels to provide for and take care of a garden that relies on me.  I have also been taking care of a few pets for friends that are traveling and am warmed by the love I receive from them.  There truly is beauty in taking care of what relies on you.  Recognizing that beauty transforms what might otherwise be perceived as routine or a bother.
Today I'm sharing an art journal page that I created for Paper Crafter's Library.  To get the full step-by-step videos and supply list, head on over the Paper Crafter's Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and look into becoming a subscriber!

Pin Cushion Display for Antique Gold Stick Pin Collection

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Go Big Or Go Home! :)
After yesterday's experiment with making a pin cushion for the first time I decided I needed to "go big or go home!"   I wanted a pin cushion that was a little more substantial to display a collection of antique gold stick pins.  So I went into my fabric stash (which includes a collection of upholstery and decorator fabric samples that I picked up at the flea market a few years back) and decided to cut 7" circles (as opposed to the 4 1/2" circles I used yesterday).  I also went through my button stash to find some buttons that would accent the stick pin collection.  I have to say that I am really proud of this pin cushion - especially since it was only my second attempt!  I am hoping the cushion enjoys its new role as the base for this beautiful collection of pins.  Here are the pins displayed on the cushion - it is really spectacular in person!

My First Pin Cushion :)

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  What Have You Got To Lose?
A friend recently asked me if I could come up with a way to display a collection of antique gold stickpins.  Of course I was up for the challenge!  I did some searching on Pinterest and saw a bunch of ideas - displaying them in pincushions that were placed in teacups or antique shoes.  They all looked pretty and, at the same time, I was drawn to creating something a bit more simple to keep the focus on the beauty of the pins.  I figured my first step was to learn how to make a pin cushion!  So, I watched a great instructional video on YouTube and gave my first pin cushion a try using simple muslin and embroidery floss.  So here it is...my first pin cushion!  It is going to sit on my craft table and hold a few pins and needles...and remind me that it's worth giving something new a try...because after all, what have you got to lose?
Stop by tomorrow and I'll show you my completed stick pin display!

"Too Kind" Greeting Card Set by Regina Andari

Fall colors and bold shapes make up this gorgeous “Too Kind” Greeting Card Set by Regina Andari.
Create a boxed set of greeting cards that feature Stampin’ Up!’s “Too Kind” stamp set.  In this tutorial, you’ll make a colorful set of cards--each adorned with coordinating jewels--and a coordinating envelope for each card.  This ensemble wouldn’t be complete without a handy decorated box that’s perfect for gift-giving or storing the cards until needed.  Get the full instructions to make this great set by heading on over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of August.