Domestic Divas

Jessica's Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

2009-02-02T17:56:00.003-07:00

I got this recipe from my sister-in-law who is lactose intolerant and makes these to fill her sweet tooth cookie-indulgance craving.

1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 cup crisco
2 eggs
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
2 1/2 cups oatmeal
2 cups chocolate chips

bake at 375 degrees for 8 minutes

Quick Chocolate Sheet Cake

2009-01-16T13:16:00.004-07:00

Mix together in bowl:
2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1/2 tsp salt

Heat on stove:
2 cups butter
1 cup water
2 Tbs. cocoa

Pour hot mixutre over flour mixture

Add :
2 eggs
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup milk

Bake at 350 for 20 min.

Quiet Time Nesting Shapes

2009-01-06T17:49:00.003-07:00

Next Divas:
Tuesday, January 13th
Gram's
12:00 p.m.

What you'll need:
-bring any scraps you might have that would be cute for the shapes(you could even patchwork fabrics together if you don't have large pieces)
-you can also bring thin batting scraps to line your shapes with
-the largest shape will be about 10" by 10", the next 8" x 8", the next 6"x 6", etc-you can make as many as you want
-whatever closures you want (zipper, snap, tie, clip, button, velcro-might be noisy at church, etc.)
-sewing machine, thread, scissors, pencil, paper(just white computer paper)

Decking the Halls Again!!!

2008-11-15T15:09:00.005-07:00

Christmas Tree Skirt
Tuesday, December 18th at Gram's
12:00 noon

Print out this sheet to help you at the fabric store:

No-Sew or Some-Sew Pillows

2008-10-03T13:46:00.005-06:00

Date: Tuesday October 14th
Time: Noon
Location: TBA

No-Sew Pillow How-To

Lay a 20-inch square cloth napkin face down, positioning it to resemble a diamond. Center a 12- or 14-inch square pillow form on napkin. Fold in 2 side points of napkin to middle, then fold up bottom point. Hand-stitch through all 3 pieces of fabric along upside-down V, about 2 inches down on each side. Stitch a button to bottom flap near point. Fold down top flap; sew a loop of cord to underside of fabric as a button holder, ensuring it fits snugly around button when closed.

Thanks, Martha!

Sewn Pillows:
Materials:
*Pillow Form
*Fabric (A flat bed sheet works well if you can find it in the right color)
*Matching thread
*Large Button for each pillow

Thanks for the picture & Idea, Pottery Barn!

White Sandwich Bread

2008-09-30T00:35:00.003-06:00

I found this recipe off of the Fresh Loaf website and use it weekly! My husband is disappointed if I buy bread from the store!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose enriched unbleached flour

1 cup bread flour (or all-purpose flour, if you do not have bread flour)

1 teaspoon yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1/8 cup sugar

1 cup warm milk

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 - 1/2 cup lukewarm water

Directions

Mix the dry ingredients, then add the wet ingredients. Mix and adjust water until all ingredients are incorporated and the dough is capable of forming a ball. Pour the dough onto a flat, floured surface and knead for approximately ten minutes.
Return the dough to an oiled bowl and let rise until doubled in size, approximately 90 minutes. Shape the loaf and then let rise again until the desired size is reached, approximately another hour.*
Bake at 350 for 40 to 45 minutes, until when tapping the bottom of loaf the bread springs back and makes a hollow sound.

Roman Shades

2008-09-09T14:58:00.009-06:00

Okay, Divas! The next project is Roman Shades. Here's some pictures of how we hope they'll turn out:

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 16th
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Place: Provo @ Gram's

The pattern has been emailed to a few Divas, if you want it, let us know and we'll get it to you.

What you'll need:

*Note: The amounts of the supplies that you need depend on the size of shade that you are making. The following worksheets will help you make all the calculations. Print both pages then grab a pencil, measuring tape, calculator, and some chocolate and have fun!

Designer fabric
Thread to match designer fabric (invisible nylon thread will work great)
Lining fabric (Block-Out or heavy fabric).
Polyester Cord
Plastic Rings
Mounting board
Weight Rod
Screw Eyes (one for each cord)

Bring:

Sewing Machine with Zipper Foot
Scissors
Seam Ripper (hopefully you won't really need it)
Staple Gun
Fabric marking pen
Measuring Tape
Calculator

Grandma's Breakfast Casserole Souffle

2008-09-04T22:45:00.001-06:00

This is a crowd pleaser every time! I never make this without having to give out the recipe!

8 slices white bread, crust trimmed and cubed
2 cups cheese, diced
1 ½ lbs sausage browned

Place bread in bottom of oblong pyrex baking dish. Place cheese evenly on top. Sprinkle sausage on top of the cheese.

2 ½ cups milk
4 eggs slightly beaten
¾ tsp dry mustard

Mix and pour evenly over bread, cheese and sausage. Let stand over night in refrigerator.

1 cup cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk

Before baking, mix soup and milk and pour over soufflé. Bake at 275 degrees for 1 ½ hour or until center is set. Serve immediately

Lisa's Carrot Cookies

2008-09-04T22:40:00.001-06:00

These are delicious, fluffy cookies that are sweet, yummy, and have vegetables in them too!

Boil 2 cups carrots (drain water & mash)
Mix carrots with 1 ½ cup Crisco or shortening
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla

2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
4 cups flour

8-10 minutes @ 350
(do not grease cookie sheet)

1 box powdered sugar
2 tblsp butter
Orange juice to flavor (can substitute lemon also)

Karen's Cinnamon Rolls

2008-09-04T22:37:00.001-06:00

Combine:

½ cup lukewarm water
1 pkg yeast
1 tbspn sugar

Mix and let stand in a warm place

1 beaten egg
¼ cup melted butter
2 ½ cup lukewarm water
½ cup dry nonfat milk
1 ½ tsp salt
½ cup sugar

Mix together and add yeast mixture.
Add 8 cups flour.
Knead for 10 min on floured board.
Place in a greased round bowl. Spray with oil and cover.
Let rise until double in size (2-3 hours).

Punch down and divide in half. Spray surface with cooking spray and roll out into ½ inch thick rectangle. Spread with butter. Sprinkle layer of brown sugar and shake cinnamon. Roll up from long side and pinch ends. Cut with string in 3” widths. Place in casserole dish sprayed with cooking spray. Let rise 1 hour.
Bake at 375 degrees for 17-20 min.

Frosting:
¾ cup butter/margarine (softened)
2-3oz. pkgs cream cheese (softened)
1 tsp vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar

Easy Wall Art

2008-09-04T19:49:00.005-06:00

We made some fantabulous canvas wall art that goes for big bucks at Pottery Barn and Pier 1, but was pretty cheap and VERY easy to make. If you want the project to be more involved, you can really go to town with different mediums and embellishments. We'll give instructions for the easy way, then extra tips for the more extravagant route. (For ideas on the more extravagant route, check out these ladies at http://winborgdesign.blogspot.com/)

You Will Need:

Stretched Canvas, any size or dimension (available at craft and art stores, we got ours on sale at JoAnne's for half price)
Mod Podge or other craft glue. This will be used to glue and seal our project so make sure that it is a glue that dries clear.
Sponge brush (also available in craft stores, but also at Walmart, usually 3 for $1)
Scrapbook papers
(Optional) Cheap acrylic paints that match your papers (you can get these at walmart for about $1 a piece, and you only need a few)
(Optional) Paint brush (something big and chunky will do the trick)

Creating the Art:

Decide what you want on your canvas. Emily got her inspiration from some Pottery Barn flower art. You could do animals, geometric shapes, something related to your child's hobby, anything! We saw a very cute one on 3 canvases that was a catarpillar with 2 big green paper circles of different patterns on each canvas, and little feet painted on. Get Creative!
Cut out your paper in the shape/size that you want (we made a template first so as not to make mistakes on our cute paper).
(Optional) Use paint in matching/accenting colors to add shadow, contrast or pizazz to your shape- especially if you will be layering multiple papers.
Let dry
Use your sponge brush to cover the back of your paper image with glue, making sure the entire shape is well covered.
Place in desired location on canvas and carefully smooth out any bubbles or bumps.
Once all pieces are in place, load sponge brush heavily with glue and begin brushing over the entire canvas. Go slowly over papered areas to prevent tearing or wrinkling. It is best to work brush strokes in one direction (up and down or side to side) for a more uniform look. Brush strokes will be visible once dry, but this is part of the "look."
Let dry, and hang!

Tips for Extravagance:

Add pictures to your art the same way you add paper. Black and white are particularly eye-catching in wall art
Scrapbook paper can be art in itself, create a collage of coordinating papers in different shapes and sizes, glue them on, seal with glue for a finished look and hang.
Distress: use sandpaper to rough up the edges of papers and pictures, Ink edges with black or brown stamp pads, water down white paint and fade a picture by brushing on a light whitewash, tear papers or even pictures (gasp!) to complete that vintage look.
Embellish: Stamp or write letters, slogans or phrases, add brads, eyelettes, decorated tags. You can also paint or ink large chipboard letters for a more stand-out look.
Glue on decorative jewels after the project has been sealed to really make your project pop!

Banana Banana Banana Bread

2008-09-04T09:15:00.005-06:00

My husband, being a lover of banana bread, sent me on a 3 years quest for the moistest banana bread recipe known to man. I found this one and fell in love! Enjoy!

Yeild: One 9x5 inch loaf
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 min
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

· 2 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon baking soda
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· 1/2 cup butter
· 3/4 cup brown sugar
· 2 eggs, beaten
· 2 1/3 cups mashed overripe bananas (approx 6 large bananas)

Directions: *see extra tips below*

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Stir in eggs and mashed bananas until well blended. Stir banana mixture into flour mixture; stir just to moisten. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

Extra Tips:

For my oven, I had to reduce the temperature to about 300 degrees because my loaves were burning before cooking through. You may have to do a few test loaves to find what works for your oven.

Ideas, Anyone?

2008-07-31T13:45:00.002-06:00

We are taking a little break during these summer months when everyone is so busy vacationing, and when we get back together in a few weeks we would like to plan out our crafts through Christmas, if possible. If you follow our blog at all and have any suggestions or ideas for projects, let us know! We can't guarantee that we will do them all, but we would love some help deciding. See you soon!

Making a Princess

2008-07-07T13:58:00.005-06:00

This is a VERY long post, as we made tutus and all the accessories necessary for a princess. We'll start with the tutus, then move on to crowns and wands!

Toddler Tutus

The amount of Tulle needed will depend on the size of your baby/toddler and how long and/or full you want the tutu to be. You can also buy your tulle in just one color, or as many colors as you would like. To see some examples, click HERE.

2 year old: 6 yards for a full, floor-length tutu, 3 yards for a full knee-length tutu
1 year old: 3 yards for a full or knee-length tutu, 1 1/2 yards for a very short, traditional tutu.
Elastic for waist (measure her waist for exact measurement)

Optional Tutu accessories

Ribbon for tying into Tutu (you can get organdy ribbon in the bridal isle of craft stores for 99 cents a spool)
Flowers from the dollar store (we will be making accessory flower clips for the tutus, but these can also be used to be stitched straight onto the tutu

Making the Tutus:

Cut your tulle into 4" wide strips, length depending on how long you want your tutu to be **Remember, we will be knotting the tulle in half over the waist elastic, so cut your tulle twice as long as you want your tutu to be**
Cut your waist elastic to the desired length
Tie elastic to two chairs, then separate the chairs so the elastic is stretched tight.
Fold one strip of tulle in half. Hold doubled strip under elastic, then pull free ends over the elastic and down through the loop formed by the folded end. (sorry, that's hard to explain, but the pictures will give you a better idea...).
continue with all tulle strips until finished
To close, you can knot or sew your elastic ends together. I wanted mine to be adjustable, so I tied a bell to one end of elastic and made a loop out of the other, that way I can tighten or loosen it depending on how the loop is tied.
Embellish with bells, flowers, ribbons, beads, etc.

Extra tips:

If you want a fluffier tutu that doesn't tangle as easily (tulle is not very stiff and the strips can tangle) tie 3 or 4 strips together in each knot. This will keep the fluffiness but keep them straightened out better.
Tulle vs. Netting: If you can afford it, netting might be better than tulle just because the tulle is so lightweight, it takes more to make it puffy and it can tangle, but Tulle is not as itchy as netting.
I have also seen tutus made of pure ribbon (wired ribbon). Again, if you can afford it, those are beautiful as well.

Wands & Crowns

Here are the things you may need, depending on which style you choose:

headband
silk flowers
dowel (12 inches)
tulle (netting)
satin ribbon to wrap dowel
organdy ribbon for streamers
curling ribbon for streamers
rhinestones
wire
beads
bells
paint (if you want to paint dowel instead of wrapping)
glue gun
terrifically tacky tape
glitter spray

Making the Wands:

Run two strips of Tacky Tape the length of your dowel (one on either side). This will keep the ribbon from slipping.
Hot glue the ribbon to the side of one of the dowel ends.
Pull the ribbon over the end and begin wrapping dowel with ribbon, continuing to end.
Hot glue ribbon over end of dowel.
Wand Embellishments: We put large beads on pipe cleaners, shaped them, and glued them to our dowels BEFORE gluing on ribbon (so ribbon will cover up pipe cleaner ends). We then tied ribbon and pieces of tulle, pearls, etc to our creation.

Making the Crowns:

We bought soft, fabric covered headbands at Walmart (so they would be less irritating to our girls heads) (I believe the were $1.99 for 5), and because the colors matched our tulle color choices, we did not cover them with ribbon. If you want to cover yours with ribbon, we suggest putting tacky tape on your headband, and then using hot glue to wrap it the same as the wand.
For beaded shapes on your crown, string beads onto a pipe cleaner, create the desired shape, and then hot glue the pipe cleaner to the headband.
Tie strips of tulle to your headband in the same way you did for the tutu (if you did beads with pipe cleaners, this will cover up your pipe cleaners!). Add a dab of hot glue to the knot to keep it in place.
Embellishments: You can glue on flowers, strands of pearls, or other embellishments as you wish.

Easy Single Stitch Beanies

2008-06-05T22:17:00.002-06:00

(For whatever size head you're looking to make)

This pattern is not a crochet how-to post, just a pattern for those who already know the basics of crochet. Really all you need to know for this is how to do a single stitch, and how to work in rounds. The 9 rounds given here should be big enough for the average toddler's head.

Time for a math refresher! This pattern is all about multiplication by 6's. Until reaching the point of the beanie size desired, you'll be counting/multiplying by 2's- 9's (give or take beanie size) and keeping multiplying until reaching #6. Then you are done with that round.

Round 1; 6 single stitches in 1st loop (6)

Round 2; 2 stitches in each single stitch (12)

Round 3; 2 stitches in 1st, 1 stitch in next; repeat (18)
(Stitch pattern= 2,1,2,1,2,1,2,1 etc..)

Round 4; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 2, repeat (24)
(SP= 2,1,1,2,1,1,2,1,1...)

Round 5; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 3, repeat (30)
(SP= 2,1,1,1,2,1,1,1,2.....)

Round 6; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 4, repeat (36)

Round 7; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 5, repeat (42)

Round 8; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 6, repeat (48)

Round 9; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 7, repeat (54)

When your beanie has a round "placemat" look and it's about the size of the crown of the head you are making it for. (It's the size of the crown when it looks like the small head covering Jewish men wear) Finish the Round you are on and then stop adding stitches and do only single stitches until the beanie is the length desired.
When finished, tie off the yarn and cut it a generous distance from the knot. Then use a yarn needle to thread the remainder up through the weave of the beanie.
The tightness of your yarn will play a huge roll in how many Rounds will be needed in your beanie. Example- tight stitches will equal more rounds.
The goal is to gradually "grow" the beanie so there won't be bumps or lumps.
For beanies to fit a larger sized head, continue adding a single stitch between the double stitches as you've done before. (example: Round 10; 2 stitches in 1st, single stitch in next 8, repeat (60) )

More Girlie Hair Clips

2008-05-07T16:43:00.002-06:00

Since our girls seem to have a knack for losing their clips, we decided to extend our adventures in hair clips and try some new ideas, both for the clips themselves and their uses.

Bow Clips:

For these you will need some floral wire (or any very fine wire) and everything listed on the original girlie hairclips post.

Cover your clip with ribbon
For a traditional bow, fold your ribbon into a long rectangle, and pinch in the middle, forming little dimples on each side of your fingers.
For a layered bow (like the red one pictured at right), fold your ribbon into a rectangle, pinch in the middle, and
continue folding back and forth across the center until you have the desired number of layers. (for patterned ribbon you will have to twist the ribbon at the center each time you fold to keep the pattern face-up)
Wrap pinched center with wire 2 or 3 times to hold shape
Cover wire with a short strip of ribbon hotglued at the back of the bow
Glue bow to clip

Other Tips and Ideas:

I made the large flower clip pictured at right entirely out of embellishments bought from the dollar store. Because it is spring, they had TONS of beautiful flowers for $1 a stem and about 8 flowers per stem. The jewel center was part of a cell-phone decorating kit I found (15 jewels per kit, also $1) and hot glued to my center. Beauty CAN be cheap!

On cold days, embellish a beanie with a big flower clip like the one pictured here. It can turn even the most boring beanie into a fashion statement! (These beanies are also very easy to make if you use the Knifty Knitter- you can easily make one for a little girl in about an hour)

For play-time, clip them into the waist of a dress-up tu-tu (tutorial on making the tu-tus coming soon...) as interchangeable accessories!

The possibilities are endless..... :)

Look, No hands!

2008-05-05T13:51:00.011-06:00

Oh-so-fancy Baby Slings

What you will need:

Fabric: You will need a total of 3-4 yards of fabric- Either 3-4 yards of one fabric, or 1.5-2 yards each of two coordinating fabrics.
Sizing: Kelli is an XXS and her sling is 21" x 52". This will take about 1.5 yards of each fabric. You can adjust the amount of fabric you will need depending on your bust, shoulder width, hips, and height.
Choose a heavier-weight woven fabric (one that doesn't stretch)

Note: 3-4 yards of fabric will be enough to sew 2 complete slings -but you need to buy that much to get the length for two different prints.

Pattern
Sewing Machine
Thread
Cotton Piping: about 12 inches of 3/4 inch thick (this is about the thickness of a Crayola marker).

Pre-wash and dry fabric.

Making the Sling:

Fold fabric in half and place short end of pattern along fold. Pin pattern in place and cut fabric. (repeat for 2nd fabric if you have it)
Place cut fabric right sides together and stitch around all sides, leaving a small hole open for turning.
Turn and press.
Optional Step: When carrying a toddler in the sling, the fabric can hurt the back of their knees where they sit. We added piping to one side of the sling as padding for their knees. To add padding, insert piping into open hole used for turning. Center piping along one of the long sides of the fabric and pin in place. Stitch a casing around piping to hold it in place.
Close hole (tuck in edges of fabric and stitch through them as close to the edge as possible.)
Top stitch 1/4" from edge around all sides.
Fold fabric in half and line up curved edges. Pin along curved edge.
Stitch along curved edge, following top-stitch line already sewn.
Open up sling behind curved edge. Fold curved edge to the side so it lays flat with the rest of the fabric. Pin and stitch as close to the edge as possible. (this way your seam will lie flat with your fabric when you wear the sling, and adds strength to your seam.)
Load up your baby and go!

Extra Tips

Before you insert your piping, make sure and tape the ends to prevent fraying. Also, if you have to cut it, tape above where you will cut, and then cut. (It's easier!)
Our sling pattern is about a size small. If you need to make a sling for a taller/bustier mom, just make it longer (not wider). The width fits the baby, length fits you.

Pee Pee Tee Pees

2008-04-11T19:59:00.005-06:00

I saw these at the Baby Expo the other day and just had to make some of my own just because they were so funny! Apparently the Tee-Pees serve as a little shield to keep you from getting sprayed when you change your baby boy's diaper. :)

You Will Need:

Fabric strips (I have seen flannel and terrycloth used) at least 7" wide and length depending on how many you plan on making.
Thread
Sewing Machine
Paper and scissors for making pattern
Cup or small bowl for making pattern (circle should probably be at least 4" across)

Making the Tee Pees

On my pattern, I have the diameter as 4 1/2" across, but another blogger found that a 6" diameter worked better, so you might want to find a cup or bowl about that diameter.
Use the cup or small bowl to draw a circle on your paper and cut it out.
Fold circle in half and then in half again to make an "x" marking the center of your circle
Draw a line from the center down the middle of one of the quarters of your circle.
Now cut out half the circle plus the little half-quarter piece, and this is your pattern.

Use your pattern to cut out two semi-circles.
Sew the two pieces right-sides together leaving one straight edge open for turning.

Turn right-side out, tuck in the open seam (so raw edges are inside) and press.

Sew the two straight edges together, and you're done!

Felt Cookies

2008-03-27T20:23:00.003-06:00

What you will need:

Cream or Chocolate colored felt squares (5 for $1 at JoAnne's fabric) for the cookie, pink, purple or other pastel colored squares for the frosting.
Ecru or Chocolate colored embroidery thread
Polyfill batting
Puff paints in colors that coordinate with the frosting colors chosen
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Quilting needle

Making the Cookies

Find a cup or small bowl that is the desired size of the cookie you want to make and trace circles onto the Cream or Chocolate felt squares, and cut out.
Find another cup slightly smaller than the first, and trace circles onto the pastel squares.
Staying within the lines of circle on the pastel squares, cut out a wiggly-lined circle for the frosting.
Use the puff-paint to put "sprinkles" on the frosting and let dry.
With the hot glue gun, glue the outer edges of two cream colored circles together (leaving the middle and a small edge section unglued for stuffing.
Stuff cookie with batting to desired puffiness, then glue shut.
Once dry, glue frosting to top of cookie.
Use a blanket stitch to stitch the outside edge of the cookie all the way around.
"Serve" and enjoy!

Photos courtesy of Primrose Design embroidary tutorials

ABC Quiet Books

2008-03-17T14:36:00.008-06:00

We're always looking for great ways to keep our kids entertained and quiet during church. Hopefully this next project will do that while teaching them at the same time. The idea comes from The Idea Door. It is an ABC book with a page of pictures and words for every letter of the alphabet. All of the pictures are gospel based, so it's great for Sundays! They provided a pdf document with the graphics in 8 1/2 x 11 size. I imported them into a word document and made them smaller so they will fit in little photo protectors and make a perfect size book for little hands. The pages are about 4x5. The file can be emailed to anyone who would like to use it.

Here's what you need:

Printout of pages-get from email. Print in color on white cardstock-there are 8 pages including title page.
Paper cutter or scissors
Adhesive (glue stick, rubber cement, photo squares, etc.)
27 Photo Savers-laminating pouches. Or plan to laminate book before binding. You can get these at Staples or any office supply store. If you have a hard time finding them, I think I could get some for you, but they might be kind of pricey :)
Pictures: I just printed these out with my printer onto cardstock, but you can use pictures that you have developed. See instructions below.

A is for Angel (optional)- this page has its own pictures, but I had one of Lydia dressed up like an angel for our nativity program, so I used that.
D is for Daddy- I printed 2 pictures of Daddy to cover the ones already on the page.
E is for eternity- 1 or 2 pictures of you on your wedding day or the family at the temple.
F is for family- 1 or 2 pictures of the family
G is for grandparents- pictures of all grandparents
I is for I am a child of God- 1 or 2 pictures of your kids, I put one in of cousins on this page.
M is for Mommy- 1 or 2 pictures of Mommy
P is for prophet- I changed this one because it had two pictures of President Hinckley. I put Joseph Smith and President Monson. I also changed the text. If you want it to be different than the way I did it, print out whatever you want :)
W is for wisemen- (optional) 1 or 2 pictures of family members dressed like wise men (maybe from Christmas).
Y is for you- 1 or 2 pictures of your baby/child or both.
Graphics are provided on all of the pages.

Plan to bind book at copy store, or
Hole punch and multi-purpose rings

To print the right size pictures in WORD:

Import the pictures into document(Insert, Picture, From File OR copy and paste)
Crop them using the image tools.
To make them the perfect size, double click on the picture, select the size tab. Type in the size that you want the picture to be. I measured the space I wanted to fill in the book and chose sizes accordingly.

Instructions:

Take page printouts and cut each page to 5 1/4 x 4 inches.
Crop pictures with scissors or paper cutter.
Glue pictures to pages with adhesive
Take laminating pouches and position page inside. ***Make sure you line it up so that the crease is on the RIGHT side of the page-this will keep your book together. The binding will be along the side of the laminating pouch that opens. *** Make sure it's right before doing next step.
Peel off grid liner and firmly seal around page.
Take to copy store to have spiral bound OR punch holes and use multi-purpose rings. It cost me 3.99 at Kinkos to get my book bound. I would recommend calling elsewhere to see if you can get a better deal.
You're Done! If you have a highly destructive child (like mine) don't leave her alone with it in the back seat, or your pages will be bent before you even get home from Kinkos.

Bag-A-Lopes

2008-03-06T19:40:00.015-07:00

Next Project: Bag-A-Lopes
It's a gift bag made out of an envelope! These are inspired (aka copied) from my FAVORITE website: splitcoast stampers. Each week they have a new little tutorial that teaches you how to do something fun with stamps. This one is from a while ago. If you don't use stamps, you can modify just about any project on the webpage and just use printed paper or stickers or other embellishments.

This is what you need:

9x12 White Catalog Envelope (I think the envelopes I found are larger, just get the largest you can find)
Paper Trimmer with Scoring Blade

Bone Folder (it's okay if you don't have one, or if you don't even know what this is-I never use one)

Extra-Strength Adhesive like Terrifically Tacky Tape (TTT)

Ribbon

Stamps & Embellishments to decorate

Corner Rounder optional
Optional:

Patterned Paper
Punches
Colored Card stock

Step by Step instructions:

Step 1

Trim 3” from envelope off of the open end.
Step 2

Remove orange cutting blade from trimmer. With the opening of the envelope at the top, score in 2” from the right, left and bottom edges of the envelope.
Step 3

You will have a 2” square in each bottom corner, score from inside corner to the outer point.
Step 4

This is the point at which you decorate the front of your gift bag, staying inside the score lines.
Step 5 (Optional)

If desired, use decorative scissor or corner rounder to scallop the top of your gift bag.
Step 6

Crease the score lines and pop the envelope into a bag, carefully bringing the bottom corner squares into a point on each side.
Step 7

Use bone folder to give points a crisp fold.
Step 8

Apply extra-strength adhesive to flaps that will fold in to the bottom of the bag.
Step 9

Fold flaps in to form bottom of the bag. Bottom will measure 5” x 4”.
Step 10

Punch holes through all layers of top edge for ribbon closure.
Step 11

Embellish the front of bag for gift giving.

Toddler Aprons Continued...

2008-02-24T17:31:00.011-07:00

You Will Need:

1 yard of fabric. Get 1/2 yard of each coordinating fabric if you want 2 fabrics on your apron (like the one pictured)
2 yards of ribbon (I used 2 different colors of ribbon and bought 2 yards of each)
Thread
Sewing Machine
Any embellishments you would like to use: Buttons, silk or felt flowers, etc

Getting Started:

Put your fabric wrong sides together, pin on the pattern and cut. Do this twice (for front and back panels)
If you would like pockets, fold your fabric in half and cut your desired pocket shape out of both layers.
Ribbon: cut four 6-inch strips, and two 24-inch strips

Sewing the Pocket:

Put your pocket fabric wrong sides together and sew around all sides, leaving a small gap open.
Turn right side out, push out corners, press with iron and close gap.
Select apron panel piece that you would like to be the front, and pin pocket(s) into desired location.
Sew pocket(s) to apron on three sides, leaving top open

Sewing the Panels:

Take 2 of the four panel pieces and place them wrong sides together (one of each pattern, if using 2)
On each shoulder, place one 6" strip of ribbon between the pieces of fabric so only a little bit of the ribbon shows out the top, and pin in place (it will seem that you are sewing the ribbon inside the panels, but when you turn them inside out, you will have sewn the ribbon into the shoulder, leaving the majority free to use for tying)
Sew completely around entire panel, leaving a small gap open
With scissors, snip seam around curves of neckline every inch or so to add some give to the neckline.
Turn fabric right side out, push out corners, press and close gap.
Repeat all steps for second panel.

Adding the Waist Ribbon:

Using one piece of 24" ribbon, mark center of ribbon with a pin, then pin across panel at desired chest height.
Attach ribbon to panel by stitching along length of ribbon
Attach ribbon to second panel (make sure both panel ribbon placements match!)
Knot shoulder ribbons, joining the panels, and you're done!

Extra Tips:

Stitching an extra line of stitching at the edges of the pocket opening and where the waist ribbon leaves the fabric will prevent future tearing.
Treating the ends of your ribbon with "fray check" or "fray no more" will prevent unraveling.

The Pattern:

Ok everyone, I tried for MONTHS to try and figure out a way to post the pattern so that it would print "actual size." I drew it out on three separate sheets of paper so you could print it and then tape it together and cut it out. Sorry, but it didn't work! I finally had to just photograph the pages to post them. I included measurements on the pattern, so hopefully you can still create your own without too much trouble. Also, the pattern is only one half of the apron. You can use the dimensions to draw out a whole pattern on a big piece of paper, or you can just do the half pattern, fold your fabric, and place the long dotted line of the pattern along the fold of your fabric to cut. If you get stuck or need help, just post a comment and I'll try to answer you ASAP :)

Flannel Picture Books

2008-02-21T20:20:00.004-07:00

You Will Need:

One yard of fabric (1/2 yard of each fabric if you want two) One yard should make 3 books.
1/4 yard clear vinyl (available in fabric stores)
1/2 yard batting
Thread
Sewing Machine
Scissors
Ruler/tape measure or Cutting Mat with measurements

Making the Books:

Cut flannel into rectangles measuring 18 1/2 " by 9 "
Cut batting into rectangles measuring 18 " by 8 1/2 "
Cut vinyl into squares measuring 6 1/2 " by 6 1/2 "
On each vinyl square finish one edge by folding it over and creating a small "hem"
Sew 2 pieces of vinyl to each piece of flannel along the 3 unfinished edges of the vinyl, keeping in mind that there will be a 1/2 inch "spine" for the book in the middle of the rectangle.
Pin 2 finished pieces of flannel wrong sides together with batting between.
Sew pinned pieces together at least 1/2 inch away from edges (to allow for "fringe")
Take 2 sewn pages, and stitch them together down the center either with a straight line or a narrow rectangle
Snip edges
Wash & dry (be careful not to clog machine)

Extra Tips

When preparing vinyl, it can be easier to cut a strip of vinyl 6 1/2 inches high along length of piece, finish one side of strip, and then cut every 6 1/2 inches to create squares. (It just makes the sewing go quicker)
We sewed the vinyl pockets onto the flannel with the opening at the top, you can also sew it with the opening toward the spine or away from it.
When joining finished flannel pages, make sure the pockets on the front and back are facing the same direction! (The same goes for when sewing the book together)
On the book in the top photo, a flannel heart was stitched to the front, you can choose to do something similar to spice up the front or back of your book, but for simplicity's sake, we opted to make all our pages the same including the front and back.

Toddler Aprons

2008-01-26T22:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, I found some really cute ideas for making aprons for our girls, but I don't know which pattern to choose. So, click the links to view the aprons and we'll decide at our next Diva Day which apron to make!

Traditional Apron This apron would be the most difficult to make but has the most potential for cuteness. Take a look at this other site to see the possibilities for a cute apron

Full Cover Apron This apron would be the easiest to make because it is all one piece and only requires ribbon and velcro (both easy to attach) for closures.

Dish Towel Apron This apron requires the purchase of 2 cute dish towels, and then we attach them to the tops. They are cute and wouldn't be too difficult to duplicate.

Binkie Clips

2008-01-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

You will Need:

1 pkg 2" Badge ID Clips (available at Walmart or Office Supply stores- 12 for about $3)
Ribbon- 12 inches per clip you plan to make ( 3/8 width works best, but anything one inch and under will work.
Sewing Machine
Clear quilters thread- easy to find at any fabric store.
Terrifically Tacky Tape aka TTT (optional but very helpful!)
Fray Check (or other fray prevention product, also optional but helpful)

Making the Clips:

Remove the stud joining the two pieces of the badge clip together (we used craft pliers)
Cut your ribbon and treat ends with Fray Check
Open clip and thread ribbon down through hole at mouth of clip (inside to outside), then up through hole at back of clip, leaving approx 1" of ribbon protruding from back of clip.
Place a small piece of TTT behind second hole on bottom of clip. Fold protruding ribbon under clip and adhere end to TTT.
Fold ribbon at mouth of clip under bottom of clip. Stitch across width of ribbon at the back of the clip, securing folded ribbon end to main body of ribbon.
Take plastic piece and on the flat side, put a piece of TTT between the metal snaps. Adhere piece to ribbon leaving 3/4" of ribbon at end.
Put another piece of TTT on the outside end of the plastic piece. Fold ribbon end over twice (to hide rough end) and adhere to TTT on plastic piece.
Stitch across folded ribbon end, securing it to plastic piece
Stitch across inside end of plastic piece, securing it to main body of ribbon

Paper Bag Brag Books

2007-11-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

You Will Need:

3 paper bags (per book)
Hole Punch
Scrapbooking paper
Ribbon bits
Adhesive (glue stick, glue dots, tape runner, etc.)
Embellishments (buttons, brads, rub-ons, stamps)
Ink Pads (optional

Making the Books:

Fold your paper bags in half
Punch 4-5 holes along the crease of one folded bag, then use that one to mark and punch holes on the remaining 2 bags.
Using a stamp pad or other inking device, ink the edges of your bags, front and back.
Now get creative! Treat each side of your folded bags like a mini scrapbook page and paper, stamp and embellish to your heart's delight!
Make large tags out of your left over odds and ends to stick into the 3 open bag ends in your book. Don't forget to put lots of ribbon on the ends to make it easier to pull them back out!
To Finish, use your ribbon bits to tie your "pages" together into a cute little brag book that is ready for pictures, quotes, or whatever your heart desires!

Hung by the chimney with care.....

2007-11-21T13:36:00.001-07:00

OK Divas, our next project is Christmas Stockings! I looked on Pottery Barn.com
and I found some super cute stockings that we can copy (don't worry, we can make four stockings for less than the price of one of theirs). I love the "Classic Ticking Stripe Stocking," so that's the one that I am going to do.

What you will need to make 4 identical stockings:
(approximate prices are included-everything purchased at Wal-Mart)

1 yard ticking $4.40 (WalMart only has red stripes, JoAnns has more options but it's more expensive. Ticking is the best kind of fabric because it's kind of stiff.
1/2 yard red velvet $2.50 (This will be MORE than enough, so if you want to use some of mine, feel free. It matches the red on the WalMart fabric, but you might want to get your own if you choose other fabric to make sure that they match).
2 packs of Wrights brand Maxi Piping $2.80. The Scarlet color (#303076) matches well
Thread to match $1.50 (red or white whichever you like best. Coats & Clark is a great brand)
1 yard really thin batting- Warm and Natural or Warm and White are a great thickness. $2.50.
1 yard generic fabric for lining $2.00 or more (use white, red, or more ticking if you want)
1 package white or cream DMC embroidery floss (the stuff you would use to cross-stitch) $.35

Other Option: Channel-Quilted Stocking

There is a kind of fabric you can buy that is already quilted in straight lines and it already has batting in it. I don't know the price or what color choices you would have, but buying this kind of fabric could simplify the project a bit. If you do get quilted fabric, don't buy lining fabric, or batting. This might end up saving you a little money.

Pattern and Stocking Size:
The pattern and instructions I found were at About.com.
You can make the stocking whatever size you want by copying the pattern into a Word processing document and adjusting all three pieces until you get the right size.
The stocking we will be making is about 15 inches tall and about 9 inches wide(at the widest spot). I will provide patterns that are this size.

Cutting Your Fabric/ Getting Ready

Fold ticking in half, wrong side together. Pin pattern in place (making sure it is in line with the stripes on the fabric) and cut through both layers. Repeat 3 more times.
Repeat process for lining, batting, and stocking cuff.
Using the velvet, cut 4 rectangles approx 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide and 4 inches long to use for the strap to hang stockings by.

Sewing the Stocking

Stitch lining pieces together following shape of stocking and set aside
Match up one piece of ticking with one piece of batting (ticking right side up)
Pin piping through both pieces along contour of stocking. Make sure the loose ends of the piping face out towards the edges of the stocking, with "pipe" on the inside (see photo)
Using a zipper foot on your machine, stitch through piping, ticking and batting, following and stitching over the stitch visible on the piping.
Place 2nd piece of ticking face down on top of the stitched piece, follow with 2nd piece of batting, and pin all pieces together (see photo)
Turn pinned stocking over (you should see your first stitch on the bottom piece of batting) and stitch over your first stitch, following it exactly.
Turn right side out

Making and attaching the cuff and loop

If you will be hand-stitching names on your cuff, now is the time to pencil on your lettering using a light table or window to trace the name onto one piece of velvet cuff.
Sew a small hem along the bottom of both pieces of cuff. (make SURE it is the bottom!)
Securely pin both pieces, right sides and hems together, and stitch together on both sides that touch the hemmed side.
Pull cuff over stocking (hem down) until top of cuff matches up with top of stocking and pin.
For the loop, take one velvet rectangle, fold in half long ways with right sides together and stitch along long end. Turn inside out
Fold sewn rectangle in half and pin to cuff and stocking where you would like it to be attached.
Stitch cuff and loop to stocking along the top. If desired, use a long basting stitch.

Attaching the Lining

Leave lining wrong side out and pull over stocking, cuff and loop. Pin along the top.
Stitch lining to stocking along top (similar to when attaching cuff and loop)
Pick open stitching on lining along flat foot section, and pull stocking through opening.
Now that the lining is right side out, stitch opening in lining foot closed, and insert into stocking.
To finish, stitch a line around the top of the stocking about 1/2 inch from the top to secure lining and keep cuff from rolling down into the stocking. Hand stitch name onto stocking cuff if desired and you're done!

Hooter Hiders

2007-11-07T13:09:00.001-07:00

You Will Need:

1 1/2 yards of fabric (if you want a different fabric on each side of your HH, then buy 3/4 yard of each fabric)
2 D-rings for the strap (they should be at least 1" to 1 1/2" wide for a good, sturdy strap width)
Approx. 10 inches of boning for the stiff section between the straps that lets you keep an eye on your baby. (boning should span the space on your chest between your bra straps)
Thread to match your fabric(s)
An iron & ironing board

Making the Main Section:

Cut your fabric(s) into a 35"x25" rectangle. (Rectangle size can be adjusted for taller/shorter, larger/smaller mommies).
Place the right sides together and stitch all 4 sides together, leaving a 5 inch section open.
Through the opening, pull the fabric right sides out, and press.
Center the boning at the top of the fabric and mark where the casing will start and end.
Through the opening, insert boning and center between marks.
Stitch casing around boning.
Stitch opening shut.

Making the Strap:

For strap, cut a length of fabric approx 50" long, and between 3 to 4 inches wide (depending on the width of your rings).
Fold in half with wrong side of fabric out and stitch the long side and one short side together.
Turn inside out and press.
Cut a 4" length off one end (to hold the rings)
Trim long strap piece to desired length, and tuck and close any open ends on both strap pieces.

Putting it all together:

Insert short strap piece through both rings.

At one end of boning casing, fold 4" strap section over the top of the fabric so the ends are even on either side, and rings have plenty of room to move at top of fabric.
Making sure they are even, stitch strap ends to main body of fabric.
Pull one ring down to front of fabric so it rests on top of stitching just made, and stitch another line above it, creating a small casing (this will prevent the rings slipping through each other as you try to work the strap).

At the other end of boning casing, position one end of long strap piece even with the strap piece just finished and then stitch to fabric.
To complete the ensemble, weave loose end of long strap through both rings, and then back up through one and TA-DA! You're done!

Extra Tips:

It may be worth spending a little more money ($1 or $2) to buy a fabric that has been slightly coated to resist moisture and stains. I prefer a fabric that is just the tiniest bit stiff for better ventilation, but some women prefer softer, lighter fabrics.
The boning that seems to work best is RIGILENE. It goes for about $2.99/yd but you will need less than 1/3 yard for one HH so it works out to be a little less than a dollar.
Another boning tip. Hot gluing the ends of your boning and/or sewing the casing slightly longer than the boning will prevent the plastic strips inside the boning from poking through the fabric over time.
Large, plastic "o" rings are cheaper and just as cute to use for the strap. Plus, using these rings eliminates the need to sew a casing on the short strap to separate the rings.
To help your HH maintain its shape over time and washing, continue the bottom stitch line of your boning casing around the entire perimeter of the fabric, creating a sort of 1/2 inch "hem" (It's best to do this before sewing on any strap pieces!)

Marble Magnets

2007-10-30T23:15:00.000-06:00

You will need:

Jumbo Gems (clear) (they measure about 1 1/4" diameter)
.75 inch (19mm) circle magnets (these are cheapest at Walmart
$5.99 for 50 magnets)
1 1/4 inch circle punch (no punch? tracing a rock and cutting by hand is tedious but cheap!)
Xyron Maching (mod podge or tacky glue works too)
hot glue gun
Cute scrapbooking paper, catalog clippings, newspaper,
anything!

Making the Magnets:

Use circle punch to create as many circles as you will make magnets for.
Xyron Users: feed circles into machine FACE DOWN so decorative side of paper will be sticky. Adhere to flat side of gem.
Glue Users: Place a dime-size dab of glue in center of paper circle. Place on flat side of gem and then smooth outward. For extra hold and a smoother look, brush entire bottom of gem with glue after paper has been adhered and let dry.
Hot glue magnets to bottom of gem and Voila! You're done!

Extra tips:

Play with different sized gems, and mix and match for cute sets of magnets.
Print or stamp letters onto your paper for a more personalized touch
The black and white magnets pictured here were cut from an old scrapbooking catalog. Don't be afraid to use whatever you have around!

Girlie Hair Clips

2007-10-30T22:17:00.000-06:00

You will need:

Salon Clips (Metal single prong clips)

3/8" grosgrain ribbon (the more colors, the better!)

Terrifically Tacky Tape by Art Accentz

Hot Glue Gun

Silk Flowers (we recommend cheap roses or daises with petals removed completely from the stems and centers or packaged petals in the scrapbooking isles)

Decorative brads or buttons

Silk, Sheer, or Embroidered Ribbon for embellishment

Making the Clips:

Cut your grosgrain ribbon into 4 1/2 inch strips (for covering clips)

Cut Terrifically Tacky Tape using same measurements.

Adhere tape to ribbon (keeping it centered) and remove red backing from tape.

Place one end of ribbon inside clip near the spring and press sticky side to the inside of the top prong. Continue pressing ribbon along top of clip, inside back of clip and onto the bottom. (If all you want are cute, ribbon-covered clips, your work is done!)

For flower clips, choose your petals (making sure all plastic spacers, centers and stems have been removed)

Insert and open decorative brad, then glue to ribbon covered clip. I like to put a piece of Tacky Tape across the open brad prongs before gluing for extra stickiness.

Extra Tips:

You CAN skip the tacky tape and just use hot glue, but the tape does make the job quicker and cleaner.

For adding decorative ribbon behind flowers with brad centers, simply arrange your ribbon, use some sort of piercing tool to put a small hole through the center of your arrangement, then insert brad (with flower already in place) and open on other side of ribbon. You can then use small dabs of hot glue to keep ribbon in just the right place behind the petals.

Buttons make cute centers too, either hot glue them to flowers, and then glue the flowers to the clips, or use thread or floral wire to place them.

For non-slip clips, purchase non-slip drawer liners at the dollar store and hot glue one small strip to the inside of your top prong.

Diva Days

2007-10-18T00:40:00.000-06:00

Today the four of us decided to get together on a whim and whip up some totally awesome hair clips for our girls. It was more of a Mommy Play Date than anything else, and we had so much fun we decided to do it every other week for as long as we all live within driving distance of each other. For future reference and friend-sharing we also decided to immortalize our projects on this blog (along with anything else that suits our fancy) in order to pass on the fun. Coming soon we will have pics and instructions for making todays killer clips!

Domestic Divas

Jessica's Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

Quick Chocolate Sheet Cake

Quiet Time Nesting Shapes

Decking the Halls Again!!!

No-Sew or Some-Sew Pillows

White Sandwich Bread

Roman Shades

Grandma's Breakfast Casserole Souffle

Lisa's Carrot Cookies

Karen's Cinnamon Rolls

Easy Wall Art

Banana Banana Banana Bread

Ideas, Anyone?

Making a Princess

Easy Single Stitch Beanies

More Girlie Hair Clips

Look, No hands!

Pee Pee Tee Pees

Felt Cookies

ABC Quiet Books

Bag-A-Lopes

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5 (Optional)

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

Step 11

Toddler Aprons Continued...

Flannel Picture Books

Toddler Aprons

Binkie Clips

Paper Bag Brag Books

Hung by the chimney with care.....

Hooter Hiders

Marble Magnets

Girlie Hair Clips

Diva Days