tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90992906045506894372024-03-18T02:47:43.789-07:00TheseLittleLoves giftingBethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-30163326022607418312023-11-26T07:50:00.000-08:002023-11-26T07:50:31.104-08:00Kid Stocking Stuffer Ideas 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tne4H9cXBqwxGEQHyXi_YaSUlRVYadNhRpVGdiLF9Uva05JcGsopCu12I2RszJ0CNdY3mF38bI3lYoGLAvD9M5HvSXj_wVB-SvElZJiLkPx84yCQj4Jdwlb7TtlP08PlXw7odLCQbv7PzDxzwu3rQiDherdJY6ooVS69qvq35-MENNOZtPIvwFbuGMum/s1920/9542CD6F-F6DF-4E65-A2DE-042D7E8269F1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="1058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tne4H9cXBqwxGEQHyXi_YaSUlRVYadNhRpVGdiLF9Uva05JcGsopCu12I2RszJ0CNdY3mF38bI3lYoGLAvD9M5HvSXj_wVB-SvElZJiLkPx84yCQj4Jdwlb7TtlP08PlXw7odLCQbv7PzDxzwu3rQiDherdJY6ooVS69qvq35-MENNOZtPIvwFbuGMum/w595-h1058/9542CD6F-F6DF-4E65-A2DE-042D7E8269F1.png" width="595" /></a></div><p>I love stocking stuffers for so many reasons. First, we always open stocking stuffers first thing in the morning…the whole rush out of bed craziness and excitement. By the time we finish opening the stockings, my husband and I reeeeallly want a shower and a coffee (and the boys definitely need to eat). Which brings me to my second reason I love them…they keep my boys entertained while I get some caffeine! Here is a quick list of some ideas to include to give you a few minutes peace before the rest of the present opening madness. :) </p>Ooly art supplies - I love this brand. They are cute, creative, and so fun. These <a href="https://amzn.to/3uy6vSD">stampables</a> are going in my littlest’s stocking this year. These <a href="https://amzn.to/3RfLs05">tutti fruitti multi color gel pens</a>, <a href="https://amzn.to/3uAAedJ">neon watercolors</a>, rainbow colored <a href="https://amzn.to/3N5gIML">pencils</a>, and <a href="https://amzn.to/3N1JMEK">macaron erasers</a> are all on our wish lists! <p></p><p>Lego poly bags - Lego poly bags are awesome, but this <a href="https://amzn.to/3sPKjTt">Hogwarts</a> one is one of the best I have seen. The pieces can build into several versions on Hogwarts castle. Super fun. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3GnNYLj">Globles</a> - Kids love squishy things haha. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3RqDSA1">Plus Plus critters</a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/3sHHJz7">baseplate</a> - We are new to the <a href="https://amzn.to/3N2JZHT">plus plus</a> world (we also love the dupes in the target dollar spot!), but I got these little critter packs at Whole Foods as stocking stuffers this year and I can’t wait to gift them. And I had no idea that plus plus baseplates existed. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/46yqluq">Travel watercolor set</a> - I have gifted these several times. The watercolor is on the page so all you need is a brush and water…perfect for travel! And after you paint them, you can detach the color squares and they can be bookmarks. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3QU3Nyw">Bubble bath</a> - This is on our stocking list every year. What kid doesn’t love a good bubble bath? This unscented version is great for anyone, especially those with sensitive skin. </p><p><a href="https://www.michaels.com/product/harry-potter-crystal-buddy-diamond-painting-kit-10730172?michaelsStore=6818&inv=3">Diamond painting kits</a> - Obviously, my kids are in to Harry Potter right now, so I had to pick these up at Michaels when I saw them, but there are so many options for diamond painting kits. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3uvc04t">Wiki Stix</a> - Grab a tube of wiki stix and see what kids will create. Our kids loved these when they had them at our favorite restaurant for kids. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/4136tOP">Lego Stuntz Bike</a> - These are driving all over my house these days. Only 5$ and they do awesome stunts. My kids are building ramps and jumps out of magna tiles, furniture, and cardboard. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3uvTDwv">Welly bandaids</a> - We love these bandaids and the refillable tins they come in. I usually pick a theme each kid likes and toss it in their stocking. </p><p>Special Rainbow <a href="https://amzn.to/3uAcFlm">Loom bands</a> - My nieces taught me how to do rainbow loom last year and I can safely say I would have made a million of these as a kid. I may have made several as an adult ;). These color changing bands would add some fun flair to their bracelets. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3N37Xmp">Yoto cards</a> - Assuming the child has a yoto player (we LOVE this <a href="https://amzn.to/3SYmLq3">mini version</a>), more story cards would be a perfect stocking stuffer! </p><p>My list could go on and on, but I’m going to pause it here. Follow me on instagram @theselittlelovesgifting for more gifting ideas throughout the year! </p><p><br /></p><p>This is not a sponsored post or an add. Some of these links are affiliate links which means I get a very small referral fee, but it doesn’t impact your price at all. </p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-39706728542750200992023-11-25T13:09:00.000-08:002023-11-25T16:46:15.491-08:00Preteen Boy Gift Guide<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7bsb_EMZ1of7GjNwVFDAe6EzixrdST4URemYklMlKRh9aKZGtg1wH0Ipz90GPH7f0wY5hDzcOrovl5ok0xgrxYu_H8eVf8b8Ei4kxSIJm-cjxowVxEsvAwgc17cFd18OP_xZs3kPcR_WBPQQ1UkqqESCPSIkYd4xeb-Z4nDKZaOtGkYgVr97VoNFUlsx/s1920/407742E9-30E7-4247-8261-611DC841FBA5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="1157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7bsb_EMZ1of7GjNwVFDAe6EzixrdST4URemYklMlKRh9aKZGtg1wH0Ipz90GPH7f0wY5hDzcOrovl5ok0xgrxYu_H8eVf8b8Ei4kxSIJm-cjxowVxEsvAwgc17cFd18OP_xZs3kPcR_WBPQQ1UkqqESCPSIkYd4xeb-Z4nDKZaOtGkYgVr97VoNFUlsx/w651-h1157/407742E9-30E7-4247-8261-611DC841FBA5.png" width="651" /></a></div><div>So, ‘preteen boy’ is not really something I ever thought I would have insight into, but with three little dudes in my house, I guess I have had to learn! Also, most of these gift recommendations would be great for a wide range of kids (and girls too, but I have less experience there). Hope this helps you find the perfect gift! </div><div><br /></div><a href="https://amzn.to/3SSD6Na" target="_blank">Audi RS Q e-tron Lego Technic</a> - grown up remote control lego, who wouldn’t like this?<p></p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/49SFx8s">Shashibo cube</a> - These are amazing and super fascinating to play with. The number of shapes you can make with it is incredible. Even my younger boys are obsessed with these. We have four.</p><p>Books: give the latest book in their favorite series, like the most recent <a href="https://amzn.to/3sMK2AT">Percy Jackson book</a>, or the first book in a new series to get them started on something new!</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/46qWOTm">Aerobie pro lite</a> - can fit in your pocket and super fun to throw around with friends, split this three pack among stockings</p><p><a href="https://goodr.com/collections/black-friday-sale?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BFCM%3A%2011%2F23%20THANKSGIVING%20NOTE%20%2801HFPG225AT7KGKSYKYFSTJ3BC%29&utm_klaviyo_id=01H88EHQHJVXYWG6CJY4BBGRMP&tw_source=Klaviyo&_kx=p1ag00aHI0GiDtocxeTVMuWq56K4sa3DflckMXYDXbI%3D.MJmvz3">Goodr sunglasses</a> - I love these inexpensive and super colorful sunglasses </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3RgI1X5">QWIXX</a> - addicting game that doesn’t take forever</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/4a6xF3x">3D maze ball</a> - I plan on handing mine this whenever I hear ‘I’m bored’ </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/47PTiD3">Nintendo switch joystick covers</a> - these come in a ton of different game themes and helps them personalize their switch</p><p><a href="https://melscience.com/US-en/chemistry/">MEL chemistry</a> or <a href="https://www.crunchlabs.com/">CrunchLabs</a> subscription - two subscription kits that are great for older kids. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3GdmOHc">Calvin and Hobbes</a> - a classic, every kid should read, but they seem to really resonate with the 4-7th grade boy crowd</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3SYCwxo">Fidget Cube</a> - this is a great fidget that can be done with one hand to help focus, plus the green one kind of looks like a creeper from Minecraft</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3SUweyH">Globles</a> - great stocking stuffer and boredom buster</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3RgQ5ak">Gaming Socks</a> - I got these for my son and his BFF cousin this year as a stocking stuffer</p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3RfyMpS">Kanoodle Genius</a> - I love these brain teaser games, fun, great for travel, makes them think. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3QSkaeR">Lego Stuntz bike</a> - Not your typical lego, these motorcycles drive and do all sorts of tricks off ramps, etc. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3MVuKQT">Amiibo</a> - It took me a long time to get what these actually are, but apparently they are scannable figures that give them extra stuff in the game. Not sure I still totally understand it, but grab one for their favorite switch game and they will love it. </p><p>(This is not a sponsored list. These are all my personal recommendations. This post has affiliate links. It does not impact your price on any of your purchases but I get a (very very) small credit for the referral.)</p><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-63061424162511072552023-02-09T08:10:00.003-08:002023-02-09T21:05:45.831-08:00Gift Ideas for Mom<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbIzDTW5HD0mJacd2dr174i5_Lv668fqsnjknocu06hJUzVYoQYqqMnIPb8ANEAtcguQhRlK7anFpJPCgCoKyy8fNk2DGaUNJTCeJhw7KpKxh-8mO9qQm-8VfeZMEdqerQcaLZvYEli9JgsRaeEcNjOCkfFuayw8GRp0uphtr_2462NW0RLntsWZqsA/s1920/3A59110F-97CA-46F6-84B9-5D63562CC595.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="1149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbIzDTW5HD0mJacd2dr174i5_Lv668fqsnjknocu06hJUzVYoQYqqMnIPb8ANEAtcguQhRlK7anFpJPCgCoKyy8fNk2DGaUNJTCeJhw7KpKxh-8mO9qQm-8VfeZMEdqerQcaLZvYEli9JgsRaeEcNjOCkfFuayw8GRp0uphtr_2462NW0RLntsWZqsA/w647-h1149/3A59110F-97CA-46F6-84B9-5D63562CC595.png" width="647" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Here is a little trick for giving gifts to moms. Think about them. Just stop and think about what they like, what stresses them out, how they relax, what they haven’t gotten to do for a while, what they liked before they had kids. Just watch. Listen. Take notes. It means the world to us. I’ve collected a few suggestions below to help you on your way. You’ll notice it is a mix between addressing the hard parts of mothering and encouraging some fun/self care. </p><p>1. <a href="https://remarkable.com/">ReMarkable Tablet</a> - Because moms have SO many lists in our head all the time. This helps organize our thoughts/projects/lists without sucking us into the black hole of the internet. </p><p>2. <a href="https://amzn.to/3RHJvIt">Ember Mug</a> - Because moms NEVER get to drink our coffee/tea hot. This felt a little ridiculous when my husband gave it to me a while back, but now I use it EVERY DAY and it has taken the stress out of trying to down my morning tea before it goes cold with three kids yelling at me. </p><p>3. <a href="https://vuoriclothing.com/products/womens-performance-jogger-long-black-heather?queryId=null&index=null&objectId=4649507291239">Vuori Joggers</a> - Oh man. Comfiest. Pants. Ever. I mean seriously. It is almost impossible to not be relaxed in these. </p><p>4. House Plants - House plants make us happy. I can’t really explain it. Start with something low maintenance. Just be careful - it quickly gets out of hand and your house may turn into a jungle. :)</p><p>5. <a href="https://amzn.to/3HPINEm">Plant Propogation Station</a> - So we can turn our plants into more plants. </p><p>6. <a href="https://www.mayabrenner.com/">Initial Necklace</a> - Jewelry can be tricky to gift, but I absolutely love this initial necklace from Maya Brenner. It is super high quality, minimalist, and can be worn daily. </p><p>7. A Creative Class - This one might not be for everyone, but if she enjoys creative outlets, sign her up for a fun class. It can be virtual so she can go at her own pace, or in person and it can be a date night or outing with a friend. A few of my favorites have been a calligraphy class, a macaron baking class at Sur La Table, watercolor tutorials from <a href="http://letsmakeart.com">letsmakeart.com</a>, and an acrylic beginner painting class from <a href="https://www.laurieanneartclasses.com/art-classes">Laurie Anne Art</a>. </p><p>8. Gift Card Bundle to her favorite ‘treat’ spots - Some people think gift cards are impersonal. BUT what if you pay attention to where she goes when she needs a little pick me up or treat. Grab gift cards to her favorite coffee shop, bakery, pedicure place…you get the idea. That way she can get a little guilt-free self care the next time she needs a pick me up. </p><p>9. DIY <a href="https://amzn.to/3YeVVtG">Framed</a> Kid Silhouettes - Sweet. Simple. Inexpensive. It preserves their sweet little faces in such a unique way. This checks all the boxes. Take profile photos of the kids from the same distance away, print, and cut them out. Then trace them onto black paper and put them in a frame. Couldn’t be easier. </p><p><br /></p><p>I hope the moms in your life feel seen, loved, and special :). ~Bethany</p><p><br /></p><p>(This post has amazon affiliate links. Using these links results in a small referral commission for me, but does not impact your price in any way. Thanks for your support. )</p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-87269243688651530322023-02-05T15:54:00.000-08:002023-02-09T08:45:41.022-08:00Class Valentines That Won’t Get Thrown Away<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeRI2kDexEHtuQjxbsQOMKVPgb70WV3CTNg5Fj0jvd3NChP0o44puR1DbASjS4l47J6QOXrLmAuGwNI_l7m5XR0yO759yTV1k-GxrAE3Jxyp3biyApKqmE0PBrZhXWSSsVOMkKo2ONL0znhBuO5UTx-_lcWb1adRMXwBMIKwm1y-xqgUTZCJ_8FrU8Q/s2000/1B1831CF-7D00-44EA-8D39-39912783C0E9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeRI2kDexEHtuQjxbsQOMKVPgb70WV3CTNg5Fj0jvd3NChP0o44puR1DbASjS4l47J6QOXrLmAuGwNI_l7m5XR0yO759yTV1k-GxrAE3Jxyp3biyApKqmE0PBrZhXWSSsVOMkKo2ONL0znhBuO5UTx-_lcWb1adRMXwBMIKwm1y-xqgUTZCJ_8FrU8Q/w640-h512/1B1831CF-7D00-44EA-8D39-39912783C0E9.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Class valentines don’t have to be throw aways. Get creative. Have fun. Make it a project with your kids. Here are some fun and inexpensive alternatives to box valentines from the store that just end up in the trash. <p></p><p>Personalized Backpack Keychains - <a href="http://wellnamed.net">wellnamed.net</a> is a great resource for keychains at just 1$ a piece! And bonus…you are supporting a teacher-owned small business. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3lcfgx6" target="_blank">Plantable Paper Hearts</a> - Package these up in cute bags or add a little extra with tiny pots and dirt. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3RBRaru" target="_blank">Playdough</a> - These tiny party favor sized Playdough tubs are fun and cute. You can add gems or googly eyes or pipe cleaners and turn it into a creative kit! </p><p>Personalized Rainbow Name or Initial Crayons - A <a href="https://amzn.to/3ldxez3" target="_blank">silicone mold</a> and a bunch of broken crayons can turn into something beautiful! </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3wVtCVa" target="_blank">Color change markers</a> or <a href="https://amzn.to/3X4KRxV" target="_blank">marker stamps</a> - I love the idea of splitting up a set of specialty markers and gifting them individually as valentines. </p><p>Handmade name <a href="https://amzn.to/3I06I5t" target="_blank">bracelets</a> - A fun DIY for kids to make for their friends. </p><p>Lego Hearts - You can order individual lego pieces from <a href="http://bricklink.com">bricklink.com</a>. The part number for red heart pieces is 3176. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3Yrt9Wt" target="_blank">Diamond Painting Sticker Kits</a> - Give parents a little break by occupying their kid with a creative project. And the kids end up with a fun sticker. </p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3DJSu6d" target="_blank">Water Beads</a> - Split these up into little containers, but be sure to add instructions! (and maybe a note that they are not candy)</p><p> </p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-62324151245999160662023-02-05T08:06:00.000-08:002023-02-05T08:06:10.226-08:00Blog Relaunch and Refocus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97_7w5P3UMFKgs67gqarpLEM-OxsN5XlEkK627QZKe_ZtN7iP8sj_2k1A7jRCku1KXNz3PFmgDsZ7DAz78EYeqRzzUDF3MzeoSa-ujo__UQSVGDrO7nFhT_6BR9hGCJpWRsSI8ykBQBrCjTJkN75AF6WYE96Id1-7L7ISivWEuRPmbkI2SXZQXATFBw/s939/B11FF915-4E5C-43B5-A13C-47B813E14FF0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="241" data-original-width="939" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97_7w5P3UMFKgs67gqarpLEM-OxsN5XlEkK627QZKe_ZtN7iP8sj_2k1A7jRCku1KXNz3PFmgDsZ7DAz78EYeqRzzUDF3MzeoSa-ujo__UQSVGDrO7nFhT_6BR9hGCJpWRsSI8ykBQBrCjTJkN75AF6WYE96Id1-7L7ISivWEuRPmbkI2SXZQXATFBw/w625-h161/B11FF915-4E5C-43B5-A13C-47B813E14FF0.jpeg" width="625" /></a></div><p> Hi! Well, it has been seven years, one house remodel, a global pandemic, and two more kids since I have posted anything on this blog. I’ve finally decided to relaunch this creative outlet with a bit of a refocusing. I’ve learned a few things about myself over the last seven years, and one of them is that thoughtful and creative gift giving is a passion of mine. My goal with this blog is to encourage and inspire others to think about gifting in a new light - as a way to express your creativity, to show others they are seen and loved, and as a way to spread joy. It doesn’t have to be stressful. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Thanks for following along. I’ll post most of my ideas on my instagram account @theselittlelovesgifting first and this blog will mostly be a link resource for saving ideas to revisit in the future. </p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-820400649094417042016-01-27T20:26:00.000-08:002016-01-28T14:22:42.718-08:00Ice Cream is for Lovers | Crochet Ice Cream Koozie Free Pattern | A Sweet DIY Valentine's Gift For Anyone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, Valentine's Day. You either love it or you hate it. Either way, you should probably get something for that special someone in your life. What I love about this gift is that it could be given to anyone. I made this sweet red and gray pair last year as a gift husband, but it would be equally appropriate for a friend, a galentine, a child. Anyone who loves ice cream...or coffee! It turns out this koozie can also be used as a coffee sleeve. It fits my reusable Starbucks grande cup perfectly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlf8mCr-jU50xA9pAimEM4oiZ64XzZtmXD23zeAyEr1M_ZqAIcZ1UqqmaKqEFSoXDarNRFEoelPJabX4gAtxpGYd2AWSS7gU82UY66Z54WB_Zpsur0sUGqbfEOMnAiOHtBRfB2uOJQ2_hc/s1600/coffee+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlf8mCr-jU50xA9pAimEM4oiZ64XzZtmXD23zeAyEr1M_ZqAIcZ1UqqmaKqEFSoXDarNRFEoelPJabX4gAtxpGYd2AWSS7gU82UY66Z54WB_Zpsur0sUGqbfEOMnAiOHtBRfB2uOJQ2_hc/s1600/coffee+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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{Please note: This free pattern is for personal use only. Please do not sell items made from this pattern.}<br />
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Materials:<br />
Size 5 crochet hook<br />
2 colors of worsted yarn<br />
Tapestry needle to work in loose ends<br />
Stitch markers (optional, but recommended)<br />
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Notes: This pattern is written with Red as the background color and Gray as the heart color. This pattern switches between two colors to make the heart pattern. If you are unfamiliar with how to switch between colors in crochet, you can find more information online such as <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2014/05/changing-colors-in-crochet/">this</a>. I did not 'crochet over' the other color, but instead let it float on the inside of the koozie. Below in the pattern, I have denoted this switching of color by stating which of the loops should switch to the new color. I also use stitch markers to mark the beginning/end of each row.<br />
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SC = Single Crochet<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3i1voPh1QaujRhzcUpQf-q6L9cQwCzDKIgYkwSD1gB3_Uloojqbqrb57taFvcnKYmQwCHOMPlAcrXTe0X6O81gocA3TzVObfElX2ZHcsKOtA-xzvOPDUO_eZ_v-SEwszPzP1Qas1Rfhhz/s1600/collage+with+blog+address.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3i1voPh1QaujRhzcUpQf-q6L9cQwCzDKIgYkwSD1gB3_Uloojqbqrb57taFvcnKYmQwCHOMPlAcrXTe0X6O81gocA3TzVObfElX2ZHcsKOtA-xzvOPDUO_eZ_v-SEwszPzP1Qas1Rfhhz/s1600/collage+with+blog+address.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pattern:<br />
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Note - Start each row into the first stitch of the previous row.<br />
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Row 1: Chain 33 Red<br />
Row 2: SC 33 Red<br />
Row 3: SC 33 Red<br />
Row 4: SC 16 Red (last stitch pull gray through for final loop), SC 1 Gray, SC 16 Red (First loop pull through red)<br />
Row 5: SC 15 Red (last stitch pull gray through for final loop), SC 4 Gray, SC 14 Red (First loop pull through red)<br />
Row 6: SC 15 Red (last stitch pull gray through for final loop), SC 4 Gray, SC 14 Red (First loop pull through red)<br />
Row 7: SC 15 Red (last stitch pull gray through for final loop), SC 2 Gray, SC 1 Red, SC 3 Gray (last loop red), SC 12 Red<br />
Row 8: SC 15 Red, SC 2 Gray (last loop red), SC 2 Red, SC 1 Gray (First loop pull gray), SC 1 Gray (last loop red), SC 12 Red<br />
Row 9: SC 33 Red<br />
Row 10: SC 33 Red<br />
Row 11: SC 33 Red<br />
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Tie off and weave in loose ends of both colors.<br />
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Also check out my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/08/made-with-love-free-printable.html">printable calligraphy gift tag</a> to let them know it was made with love :).<br />
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As always, I would love to see your creations with this pattern! Feel free to tag me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theselittleloves/">Instagram @theselittleloves</a> or post it to the blog <a href="https://www.facebook.com/These-Little-Loves-307824546011634/">Facebook page</a>. Happy crocheting and let me know if you have any questions!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpvRG26KkUioChIBAM6QZljPzjntAqvLVaIauoYA21o68J_k2WndzlslB3Poav7ByDGRlDw-PMeKU_ISMGEj41Gg4KA90ia3-bFqmwubvASjtQgGF68Ny1WbAJBVjr8_r06XJrulSdaCJ/s1600/end+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpvRG26KkUioChIBAM6QZljPzjntAqvLVaIauoYA21o68J_k2WndzlslB3Poav7ByDGRlDw-PMeKU_ISMGEj41Gg4KA90ia3-bFqmwubvASjtQgGF68Ny1WbAJBVjr8_r06XJrulSdaCJ/s1600/end+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And a shout out to the most adorable photo assistant ever...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iRZpWuMDaioY06b0na6f_kZtWfZ2L2pICn8gq4aFsCfOfHcNRbEG8Ua17gsBAQVR4oGvnQLNWY8y0sHjw-4NJszbNJJDicKf2HMEiayt8BwT6V4ERpSLByLTNbD9jTj-ti037qzXSzyD/s1600/IMG_6660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iRZpWuMDaioY06b0na6f_kZtWfZ2L2pICn8gq4aFsCfOfHcNRbEG8Ua17gsBAQVR4oGvnQLNWY8y0sHjw-4NJszbNJJDicKf2HMEiayt8BwT6V4ERpSLByLTNbD9jTj-ti037qzXSzyD/s1600/IMG_6660.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-19415606071631615392016-01-10T20:55:00.000-08:002016-01-10T20:55:23.399-08:00Free Pattern: Nursing Infinity Scarf DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vHOKtdVhayeXrSHsW0IsCxRmkfH3eA8q_Uni2yd3KzIzs2SmupDWPW4R177xk6nFiL62aZtrwgLONJzE6PMqSTv1Dy_iGE-RxTkL3AtYqRWN4WzLEqRVZelVYtPPwWzR9pp_1YQl450/s1600/title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vHOKtdVhayeXrSHsW0IsCxRmkfH3eA8q_Uni2yd3KzIzs2SmupDWPW4R177xk6nFiL62aZtrwgLONJzE6PMqSTv1Dy_iGE-RxTkL3AtYqRWN4WzLEqRVZelVYtPPwWzR9pp_1YQl450/s1600/title.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you follow me on Instagram, you have seen that things are a little baby crazy over here! In honor of our long-awaited and long-prayed for good news, I am going to share my latest go-to baby shower gift - an infinity scarf that doubles as a nursing cover. Or maybe it is a nursing cover that doubles as an infinity scarf. Either way, these babies are super simple, crazy useful, and stylish. Paired with my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/11/free-pattern-washable-bunny-ear-teether.html">bunny ear teethers</a> and <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/01/a-better-burp-cloth.html">burp cloths</a>, you have one killer baby shower gift.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGd3KKhN0uW3Ixz_7IjsurYuez2Sazc6n9NSEoKXspNPFg8a0_H57l2F4G17q3VfSs6nqPMxeI-V7ekmayAgddMHa4ok3SY9yG-g1VEzeumkusLriL-Hx3eskKQo-2GNIokw3z3TQ6rMhl/s1600/wrapped+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGd3KKhN0uW3Ixz_7IjsurYuez2Sazc6n9NSEoKXspNPFg8a0_H57l2F4G17q3VfSs6nqPMxeI-V7ekmayAgddMHa4ok3SY9yG-g1VEzeumkusLriL-Hx3eskKQo-2GNIokw3z3TQ6rMhl/s1600/wrapped+gift.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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You can even coordinate the fabrics for an additional cuteness factor.<br />
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If you are unfamiliar with this style of nursing cover, they are genius. Seriously, whoever first came up with the idea - you are brilliant and I hope you made a ton of money. You look cute, can pull it out whenever, and my favorite feature is that it covers your back while nursing! If only I had figured out how to make such an adorable cover for my first kiddo!<br />
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And now is the part where I took a ton of awkward selfies to show you how they work...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBqEYZPwaKjJmQI4d2dXxdzCw9Upsud5dvqM2NJGhuu1e7Jl-uOnsdXY_QhjR1S5XvtoVhfFItphzr6GF7BpdFM7WD0guHx8zIq3Zs2NvU88ms_OIfZBue0dHh9GpnF-Bka31oi6TtXkP/s1600/closeup_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBqEYZPwaKjJmQI4d2dXxdzCw9Upsud5dvqM2NJGhuu1e7Jl-uOnsdXY_QhjR1S5XvtoVhfFItphzr6GF7BpdFM7WD0guHx8zIq3Zs2NvU88ms_OIfZBue0dHh9GpnF-Bka31oi6TtXkP/s1600/closeup_.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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That was a little close... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRdch8gNaH8O3aCIogA-83jfk3BcIZp84WllOZkhvo305eYrXx_dgLYASTuFj3jJ3sOvSZveKymqTGcclATtAQ6k5BNftId_IKGJ9OumGwPNq9Y3iqPQcG7MuYdjCFLlU2ytm9VjRqDLs/s1600/nursing+scarf+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRdch8gNaH8O3aCIogA-83jfk3BcIZp84WllOZkhvo305eYrXx_dgLYASTuFj3jJ3sOvSZveKymqTGcclATtAQ6k5BNftId_IKGJ9OumGwPNq9Y3iqPQcG7MuYdjCFLlU2ytm9VjRqDLs/s1600/nursing+scarf+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How is my hair blurry?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlpXQnqnUm1i6zndAx5FFpUMZ6SfHtkd_1HmEQV0bH-jfKW8eVKkZYnrbkFRbXECme70tXhDDodFE-74qjKKZ5l_WhzQNw9mpndOtxx988-NdhzopHPmujtG0JbRUUHoRw2HxfCfA7ACl/s1600/scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlpXQnqnUm1i6zndAx5FFpUMZ6SfHtkd_1HmEQV0bH-jfKW8eVKkZYnrbkFRbXECme70tXhDDodFE-74qjKKZ5l_WhzQNw9mpndOtxx988-NdhzopHPmujtG0JbRUUHoRw2HxfCfA7ACl/s1600/scarf.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There we go!<br />
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And now me pretending to hold a baby...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ywb7s_jsJ0OEjNtCkbWhG4WhjK5gqSKAla2wbkLpdFki4k8f_6JvGGQNZiKFW8JzGXo5YJugNPK3zZfO-BmkgKpvJPRJ2qDNVHPQYDo_YURCgcFllWj3nrx5MQpE0k9vnP1cPfYOJXVe/s1600/nursing+scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ywb7s_jsJ0OEjNtCkbWhG4WhjK5gqSKAla2wbkLpdFki4k8f_6JvGGQNZiKFW8JzGXo5YJugNPK3zZfO-BmkgKpvJPRJ2qDNVHPQYDo_YURCgcFllWj3nrx5MQpE0k9vnP1cPfYOJXVe/s1600/nursing+scarf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Materials</b></div>
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knit fabric - 24" x 60" minimum (see discussion below)</div>
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matching thread</div>
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sewing machine</div>
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pins</div>
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scissors or rotary cutter</div>
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The biggest decision in making this nursing scarf is fabric. I've made quite a few of these now and I have learned a few things. I highly recommend a high quality knit that is soft and has good stretch. Knits aren't as scary as you would think to sew and they will give the momma and baby a little wiggle room. Also, when considering the pattern on the knit, think about its use as an infinity scarf. You will likely see a bit of the underside of the fabric when twisted around the neck. A double-sided knit is ideal, though in the photo above I use a fabric that is printed only on one side. This particular fabric works as the base color of the pattern side and the reverse side of the fabric is the same. Using a fabric where the right and wrong sides are substantially different can be fine if the two sides complement each other or if you double up the fabric before sewing (essentially doubling the thickness and making both sides patterned). </div>
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I recommend a piece of fabric that is at a minimum 24" x 60" with the direction of stretch in the longer dimension (what will be the circumference of the scarf). If the mom-to-be is particularly tall I would recommend increasing the 24". If the knit is not particularly stretchy in the circumference of the scarf, I would increase the 60". </div>
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Prewash and dry your fabric. Lay the fabric out, folded in half with the right sides together (see image below or download the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqbkktY204MkNxc00/view?usp=sharing">free pattern</a>). Pin along the short open end and seam with a zig zag (stretch) stitch. Iron the seal allowance over to one side and use an overlock or vari-overlock stitch to sew the raw edge of the seam down to the main scarf fabric. This will finish the seam and clean up the inside of the scarf. At this point, you could stop here. This would be a perfectly lovely infinity scarf that could easily be used as a nursing cover. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCKKBQJxtPRK4Fo0AU3ITbLlEHnSnmUFmsH5ggYl2BORaRNSEHtUKWc0btyu1XwV6StMuss7Xu3oTclNmiMwGEoFB9kjTxtPa8UXtU4hEKCJC-0C38-NYNLp5oPtLz9atdx2ookR7yBGg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-10+at+8.31.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCKKBQJxtPRK4Fo0AU3ITbLlEHnSnmUFmsH5ggYl2BORaRNSEHtUKWc0btyu1XwV6StMuss7Xu3oTclNmiMwGEoFB9kjTxtPa8UXtU4hEKCJC-0C38-NYNLp5oPtLz9atdx2ookR7yBGg/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-01-10+at+8.31.15+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For a bit more customization, you also have the option of adding a small seam along one of the open sides intended to add more privacy for the mom during nursing. I like to put the added seam at my waist under my free arm (as seen in the above photo where I am pretending to hold a baby), but I have friends who prefer to put the sewn 'corner' on the shoulder. Either way works great. If you do include the seam, I would suggest rounding the corner as I will outline which allows it to hang better when twisted up into a scarf.<br />
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To add the seam and round the corner, start by pinning together about 6" of fabric from the sewn edge of the scarf along one of the open ends (see steps 4 and 5 in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqbkktY204MkNxc00/view?usp=sharing">free pattern</a>). Depending on your fabric dimensions, you might want to try this on and see if you want to increase the length of the seam. Once you are happy with the pinned section, sew with a zig zag stitch. To round the corner, draw a curved line starting at the 6" seam and curving down to meet up with the seam up the side of the scarf. I would backstitch a few times when the curved seam meets up with the original seams. For this curved seam, I used a straight stitch. Then trim the fabric above the curved seam. You will cut through the two original seams.<br />
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Turn the scarf inside out and enjoy!<br />
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I would LOVE to see your work with this pattern. Feel free to tag me on instagram @theselittleloves so I can see your lovely creations!<br />
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And don't forget to check out my other baby patterns: <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/11/free-pattern-washable-bunny-ear-teether.html">bunny ear teethers</a> and <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/01/a-better-burp-cloth.html">burp cloths</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3r3A9Xjl2GkdV33sFDmw4RhZEH2vQC9wVjRWK5lgl-XaFjsEqHj3EOOAG5rUNFZJuSHTdgEDZBXAbdjhlLvUPbCkiro5B6VZgp3rpsYWUO9iH41_Hc8d9-RCfzCWoOvRnCPe4ave3a6c3/s1600/burp+cloth+and+teether.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3r3A9Xjl2GkdV33sFDmw4RhZEH2vQC9wVjRWK5lgl-XaFjsEqHj3EOOAG5rUNFZJuSHTdgEDZBXAbdjhlLvUPbCkiro5B6VZgp3rpsYWUO9iH41_Hc8d9-RCfzCWoOvRnCPe4ave3a6c3/s1600/burp+cloth+and+teether.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-23647475590770414162016-01-08T21:03:00.003-08:002016-01-24T17:09:40.385-08:00Sparkly Mermaid Seaweed | A DIY Party Decoration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvljiQQrHqL7rXKkDCilg8qT6Jo2gvIVUVbm8_Qah2bCqpPL9HulHxjsGvOTF47vO83tUFXgjtCGY60vR3Rat1d-7kK-QRcNzcYM-7cvCNQH6CKviRlrO-K5YPxL8i2PPphlZxASudD3M/s1600/seaweed+title+option+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvljiQQrHqL7rXKkDCilg8qT6Jo2gvIVUVbm8_Qah2bCqpPL9HulHxjsGvOTF47vO83tUFXgjtCGY60vR3Rat1d-7kK-QRcNzcYM-7cvCNQH6CKviRlrO-K5YPxL8i2PPphlZxASudD3M/s1600/seaweed+title+option+2.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
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Last summer I shared my niece's first birthday party, a <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/08/the-littlest-mermaid-sparkly-teal-and.html">fun and girly mermaid affair</a> with plenty of sparkles, sea creatures, and seaweed. Tons and tons of girly, pretty seaweed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5WX3kO41aU9v92bDHgwVTAnzWqZNEsthytvbHq9jqk7Y88aBsRHVwtTxrtibgAKHvBeFdH7HnPIn5_Kgi5pmOfMED4KVKuz1S-P87fimCiLmyyejczA7ZOmgUIy_zAyGq1AEZNCO0WAD/s1600/banner+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5WX3kO41aU9v92bDHgwVTAnzWqZNEsthytvbHq9jqk7Y88aBsRHVwtTxrtibgAKHvBeFdH7HnPIn5_Kgi5pmOfMED4KVKuz1S-P87fimCiLmyyejczA7ZOmgUIy_zAyGq1AEZNCO0WAD/s1600/banner+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I threw seaweed on just about everything...the front door, chairs, food tables, chandeliers, the gift table. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjd9nLD730tgnlNEMH3uN_915Tkw-51AqgJ7vAQHa1DkYCT6RnwZBneEf-oMEJuOitAXc5DV-V353PKRWisKYRaIXSNN4zkNMMPS1Vih64-q3TJfkY3YEbVmPcWgSXwqf3MHiYk32ld-qj/s1600/front+door+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjd9nLD730tgnlNEMH3uN_915Tkw-51AqgJ7vAQHa1DkYCT6RnwZBneEf-oMEJuOitAXc5DV-V353PKRWisKYRaIXSNN4zkNMMPS1Vih64-q3TJfkY3YEbVmPcWgSXwqf3MHiYk32ld-qj/s1600/front+door+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOwg0S31fkQ1YAyUFZzPwYZ9sk5O3K_Mz1koigT9L-T_92fw0l_qWvSdI9DhtDTG0rzsREpy49XpLrD4ZhfGlHbbx46AxiuzwTuUCE8TfBJ7vfjltsARLxHoDGn-ud_JQIXf7T7fSfgxp/s1600/chair+and+chandelier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOwg0S31fkQ1YAyUFZzPwYZ9sk5O3K_Mz1koigT9L-T_92fw0l_qWvSdI9DhtDTG0rzsREpy49XpLrD4ZhfGlHbbx46AxiuzwTuUCE8TfBJ7vfjltsARLxHoDGn-ud_JQIXf7T7fSfgxp/s1600/chair+and+chandelier.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Large scale party decorations can often get quite pricey, but this seaweed turned out to be a simple and inexpensive way to make a big sparkly impact. It gave the entire party a whimsical feel. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeybqGG_GvqcfdjSQhThk9WYG0hlkU4tkxNzwXPFbj_O491lchayYjc1t-oYyar4nZIZD4lyvRtqlgDcAbKe7NxE8fvqag5wcsQB2bYz62GKtYKKHflbnsm4ZKrt7zvkOSzEAr_zffs4fB/s1600/seaweed+and+banner+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeybqGG_GvqcfdjSQhThk9WYG0hlkU4tkxNzwXPFbj_O491lchayYjc1t-oYyar4nZIZD4lyvRtqlgDcAbKe7NxE8fvqag5wcsQB2bYz62GKtYKKHflbnsm4ZKrt7zvkOSzEAr_zffs4fB/s1600/seaweed+and+banner+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Materials: </div>
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Fabric of your choice (1 yard = roughly 10-12 strands of seaweed)</div>
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Fabric Scissors</div>
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Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat (Optional)</div>
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The cost of the seaweed will entirely be decided by the fabric you choose (and how many coupons you have for the fabric store). I chose three fabrics: a <a href="http://www.joann.com/casa-collection--glitter-organza-wave-fabrics/zprd_13261433a.html">glitter organza in Jade</a>, a <a href="http://www.joann.com/casa-collection-glitter-organza-scroll/zprd_12850921a.html#q=glitter%2Borganza%2Bscroll%2Bdewberry&start=1">glitter organza in Dewberry</a>, and a <a href="http://www.joann.com/matte-tulle/zprd_10449056a.html#q=matte%2Bnylon%2Btulle&start=1">matte nylon tulle in Jade</a>. The glitter organzas were by far the prettiest and my favorite, but are a little more expensive in the regular price $8 per yard range. With a coupon or a sale, these become entirely reasonable and worth the price. Each yard will get you roughly 10-12 long strands of seaweed. I purchased 2 yards of each of the glitter organzas and 3 yards of the tulle. </div>
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To cut the seaweed, start by moving all your living room furniture so you can lay the fabric out on the floor. Oh wait, you probably don't live in a teeny tiny Bay Area house. In that case, just toss it on your cutting table in your huge and lovely craft room while sipping a glass of wine. A girl can dream, right? Fold the fabric in half (the long way). Either with the scissors or with the rotary cutter/cutting mat, cut the fabric into 3" wide strips. There is no need to measure or be exact here, the seaweed is very forgiving. </div>
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I will warn you, this next part does get a bit tedious. Grab your scissors, put on a few episodes of Fixer Upper, and get comfortable. (Insert glass of wine here?) You will be hand cutting the little notches in each fabric strip. With each strip still folded in half (cutting both layers at the same time), cut the end of the fabric strip into a V (like a tie). Then follow that same angle and cut up each side of the seaweed about every inch. Again, no need to measure. Be sure to only cut into the strip partway, leaving an uncut section of fabric running up the center of the strip. I also did not cut notches into the area of the fabric around the fold, leaving a section that could easily be draped or tied over a ribbon garland or chair. I think it would look fine if you did cut this section, you would just have to transition from one direction of 'notch' to the other. This is a little hard to describe so check the 'cutting pattern' below for pictures that help. You can download it for free <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqMnQ4Wk5zZG9ZeHc/view?usp=sharing">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ92hxdrvNamIh5Tjpm3yQkhSD_TDrzMtq_DJC-ox-93hSMb7U8h56YtT6FDWf_Og4rdt8TbGHQg_aBpQFO0l7Aq75G5OnokbsZEAX104L73r2IPCYF-obrS7bH17ZMsiny84_8dcoz9hG/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-08+at+8.51.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ92hxdrvNamIh5Tjpm3yQkhSD_TDrzMtq_DJC-ox-93hSMb7U8h56YtT6FDWf_Og4rdt8TbGHQg_aBpQFO0l7Aq75G5OnokbsZEAX104L73r2IPCYF-obrS7bH17ZMsiny84_8dcoz9hG/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-01-08+at+8.51.22+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once the cutting is done, hold up the fabric strip and watch it 'curl' at the cut edges and start looking like seaweed! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VAfcAKUaLTYrukN4T6ZzU_dMZvw2MWVam0qAyl_MbLtAOwLEjOUsFSSNlBKXSDVNsO2ZOZURi5LPE8GJxtutqN7J5BV6Iho9j_Fc1AnyQ-J2e6etrIxylvOLIhNy5zOdmQTHAl6ZDgzN/s1600/seaweed+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VAfcAKUaLTYrukN4T6ZzU_dMZvw2MWVam0qAyl_MbLtAOwLEjOUsFSSNlBKXSDVNsO2ZOZURi5LPE8GJxtutqN7J5BV6Iho9j_Fc1AnyQ-J2e6etrIxylvOLIhNy5zOdmQTHAl6ZDgzN/s1600/seaweed+3.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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For ideas on how to decorate with the seaweed, check out the full party blog post <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/08/the-littlest-mermaid-sparkly-teal-and.html">here</a>. One quick idea...get a few paper cut seahorses and wind them into the seaweed! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEspWE1fXcA0UZLwfEwM_8qfppDpdMWi2HFhESc4mam2x1V1sctqkGf0ZLLIckvfNCdPPAqTWdOzQusa83RsYr39SCbhbC7qyWhllqGHYJAX-oSLvBm0Lho0Briq23hE-ITsQP2hBBo8nF/s1600/chandelier+seahorse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEspWE1fXcA0UZLwfEwM_8qfppDpdMWi2HFhESc4mam2x1V1sctqkGf0ZLLIckvfNCdPPAqTWdOzQusa83RsYr39SCbhbC7qyWhllqGHYJAX-oSLvBm0Lho0Briq23hE-ITsQP2hBBo8nF/s640/chandelier+seahorse.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Interested in the seaweed, but don't have the time? Check out my etsy listing <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/262707275/mermaid-birthday-party-seaweed-and?ref=shop_home_active_1">here</a> for the mermaid party pack while it lasts! </div>
<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-13109482936051488202015-11-08T19:14:00.001-08:002015-11-08T19:14:20.140-08:00DIY Military Family Wall Art | Home is Wherever You Are<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsZg_rsWlfGJTFRs59l89WFJzIvY4jc-0hZq9NiCyE1e_VZRyI_m-PdIxVKhhN7MRMhvRGjE7vw1p6ChCfQERYD_FcVSmd_EfPBY7hyphenhyphenlUvNVsZ1lZVy5Bvbgp78QlnWjil9VxQQtB4y92/s1600/title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsZg_rsWlfGJTFRs59l89WFJzIvY4jc-0hZq9NiCyE1e_VZRyI_m-PdIxVKhhN7MRMhvRGjE7vw1p6ChCfQERYD_FcVSmd_EfPBY7hyphenhyphenlUvNVsZ1lZVy5Bvbgp78QlnWjil9VxQQtB4y92/s1600/title.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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You may have noticed that I've been a bit silent on the blog front. Things have gotten full time crazy over here. We've got big exciting things happening, not the least of which is that we bought a house! Aaaaahhhh. And not just any house, but one that needs major renovations before we move in. I've never been so excited and so nervous at the same time:). This is an answer to a long term prayer and I am beyond thankful. I'm sure you will be hearing more than you want in future blog posts, so for now we'll just leave it at that! </div>
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All these thoughts of home and moving and family reminded me of a piece of art I did a while back for some friends. Like most military families, our friends move around quite a bit. They came to me wanting something for their walls that tracked their various living places, but with the idea that home is more than a house or a city. After a little brainstorming we settled on this simple, graphic, and sophisticated design that could be easily updated with future moves. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GfI2TCJO8xGuZF6Q5aCiRG0blJwYJYXYisbD1cc6pF42IK30pWkiAHOjqFpvaYRpG6dwlNX-UuKo_mXKPcpB_w2vD-EGM6S_SmkCUtol_EDq6t_q0v0lm7HeOvAhVTkcHfl4MP6O5R00/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GfI2TCJO8xGuZF6Q5aCiRG0blJwYJYXYisbD1cc6pF42IK30pWkiAHOjqFpvaYRpG6dwlNX-UuKo_mXKPcpB_w2vD-EGM6S_SmkCUtol_EDq6t_q0v0lm7HeOvAhVTkcHfl4MP6O5R00/s1600/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The whole project turned out to be very simple to make. I cut the <a href="https://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/view-shape/1639">USA map</a> out of bristol paper using my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=G242WSRMNRQCZJ4F" rel="nofollow">Silhouette Cameo</a>. After sketching the words carefully in pencil first, I used a Nikko G nib to calligraph 'home is wherever you are' across the blank white map. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebVJrq0xzWL4D0k3HicT7SNd8y4_MM0xd_l7ZVqLYwvf8I6FXNvTjsf14guZpyyvveAiURwC4bPyLUycY-U6ZmD28KK2DNsvzZlXObh9p3qSThyphenhyphen2r7D4Ymd0xQNB_f4Hjru4nthegW-em/s1600/met.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebVJrq0xzWL4D0k3HicT7SNd8y4_MM0xd_l7ZVqLYwvf8I6FXNvTjsf14guZpyyvveAiURwC4bPyLUycY-U6ZmD28KK2DNsvzZlXObh9p3qSThyphenhyphen2r7D4Ymd0xQNB_f4Hjru4nthegW-em/s1600/met.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instead of the classic 'push pin' in the map, we went with a small gold dot drawn in with a gel pen. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeQBuLxcqgjAZHY40QVX33GjAA8755ofgUo8pv9XoNDEGDanOK2wrvuAepR-JmYR1rNugq55-JuxrTZOal7CIdPCvFuh5ZDTYQU_fpdPCO03ObbKsTBGQryhj2zrG0g5BWPTiPwEsoQ01/s1600/gold+dot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeQBuLxcqgjAZHY40QVX33GjAA8755ofgUo8pv9XoNDEGDanOK2wrvuAepR-JmYR1rNugq55-JuxrTZOal7CIdPCvFuh5ZDTYQU_fpdPCO03ObbKsTBGQryhj2zrG0g5BWPTiPwEsoQ01/s1600/gold+dot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To give the map a bit of dimension on the wall, I used sticky foam squares to raise the main portion of the map up from the black paper background. Hawaii and Alaska were a bit too small to raise up, so they were glued down flat. The end result was simple and I love it. I hope it reminds them of all the homes they have shared and the people they have met along the way. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPn_RKLpY4EmbXL7DcQVUhyMDu0lb3mGqfnNqO5RVz8QavB3CUiIT6cHrUo-5SLAvuSjsTH135OCIdqwtfEGAf2JtnM6uRE3Tkl7O4SDjwaf4hLbaETqZC_HC39DOQAjId7_XVgCtn6TV/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPn_RKLpY4EmbXL7DcQVUhyMDu0lb3mGqfnNqO5RVz8QavB3CUiIT6cHrUo-5SLAvuSjsTH135OCIdqwtfEGAf2JtnM6uRE3Tkl7O4SDjwaf4hLbaETqZC_HC39DOQAjId7_XVgCtn6TV/s1600/map.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As a little bonus piece for the kiddos, our friends also wanted a copy of <a href="http://www.hobbylobby.com/Home-Decor-%26-Frames/Mirrors-%26-Wall-Decor/Wall-Art/I%27ll-Eat-You-Up-I-Love-You-So-Canvas-Wall-Art/p/138458">this</a> adorable artwork found at Hobby Lobby. DIY word art (not calligraphy) scares the tar out of me, but I gave it my best shot! Armed with more bristol paper and a black marker, I made a black and white version after only about three total failures. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbfzVBiw2WOv_0WtkSuc0_Ep3pgR_IaV5-GOi15T3QjwWLON2E5YhuL_m50KE1nuseuXxyP7c92E_atIqCLchoD1CsspyvlJmVXqK_GlLXIjMLTe0zUQKS48_NYEbFiVnrdaaf4P6T3Nl/s1600/IMG_5341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbfzVBiw2WOv_0WtkSuc0_Ep3pgR_IaV5-GOi15T3QjwWLON2E5YhuL_m50KE1nuseuXxyP7c92E_atIqCLchoD1CsspyvlJmVXqK_GlLXIjMLTe0zUQKS48_NYEbFiVnrdaaf4P6T3Nl/s1600/IMG_5341.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope you find a little inspiration from these pieces to customize your walls with pieces you love.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-12927107170074958662015-08-24T21:36:00.001-07:002016-02-23T20:46:17.435-08:00Confetti and Calligraphy | An Engagement Party <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtOBfg4ksLu6fVe-a5izGTeKmWpCOD0-TAlBzQ7fBWahyphenhyphenURyXXc_ngtgiZbbIr83ztZu9JI9AwJaBNPf4RVKUZYqINAWlMVITmYNIqE1K2qze9V98iFojKMosnPFZ2a0vS0ub3583-wq7/s1600/title+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtOBfg4ksLu6fVe-a5izGTeKmWpCOD0-TAlBzQ7fBWahyphenhyphenURyXXc_ngtgiZbbIr83ztZu9JI9AwJaBNPf4RVKUZYqINAWlMVITmYNIqE1K2qze9V98iFojKMosnPFZ2a0vS0ub3583-wq7/s1600/title+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have been so excited to share this party with you!! I made myself wait until I got through a bit of my blogging backlog, but I can't wait any longer. This might just be one of my favorite parties yet.<br />
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This also happens to be the very first party I have ever been paid to plan. And while I still don't plan on starting a party planning business any time soon, I must admit it was pretty fun. It didn't hurt that my 'clients' were two super awesome friends of ours.<br />
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Our friends were throwing an engagement party BBQ in honor of their brother and his fiancé. The original inspiration for the party decor was the bride's love of funfetti cupcakes and the fact that the couple met at a first birthday party for our friends' daughter. I loved the idea of a very festive confetti theme, and decided to make it slightly more adult and fancy with the addition of calligraphy accents.<br />
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A calligraphy and confetti door sign welcomed the guests to the party.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3qM99YgIorNvRMBdYo0t0o62JwekUditHu3dsf3Md7Nrs5Qn9UXwDfC7ybfPFnNetnkr4IZQtgKeEEUAgAVIUPvY-nWo25nbhyphenhyphenK5_05Mz9Ku7CWujEJnX0qd_gOERITiT0c8mDU_BfB4/s1600/door+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3qM99YgIorNvRMBdYo0t0o62JwekUditHu3dsf3Md7Nrs5Qn9UXwDfC7ybfPFnNetnkr4IZQtgKeEEUAgAVIUPvY-nWo25nbhyphenhyphenK5_05Mz9Ku7CWujEJnX0qd_gOERITiT0c8mDU_BfB4/s1600/door+sign.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Inspired by my calligraphy table runners for the <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/01/a-milk-and-cookies-engagement-party.html">cookies and milk engagement party</a>, I created black and white versions using song lyrics from the music for their first dance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-qwA1OYPjbxb_2a9tB2iB0gG3kznCm6t2CBubtkCAaK1tjYp-SjLJjk-EFdLKXMvs5eqmwkwTK4F4a-LrqAEHrZPqXH6TfmR5RgldKsHlFTSlcOurqMi63aJEVp62WJjzNGMuphPyQTQT/s1600/runner+angle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-qwA1OYPjbxb_2a9tB2iB0gG3kznCm6t2CBubtkCAaK1tjYp-SjLJjk-EFdLKXMvs5eqmwkwTK4F4a-LrqAEHrZPqXH6TfmR5RgldKsHlFTSlcOurqMi63aJEVp62WJjzNGMuphPyQTQT/s1600/runner+angle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It turns out you can make something pretty fancy looking with a roll of kids art paper, a pencil, an eraser, and a big <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PSBMP4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000PSBMP4&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=MXGOVWW77NJOBECS">Sharpie</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdoHqnIA_Gm4FstXfIOJg1LILBOhXFc38h8nOd3Is7kohWIhB3fr_pYHeynO4TYh8VXBuyymWxpzFRoBn6X0d6KolBv1oph5UzGAZ4qjiZHwvWoivMSKxTvPps28UiJLQxUORHQBoJuiL/s1600/runner+in+progress+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdoHqnIA_Gm4FstXfIOJg1LILBOhXFc38h8nOd3Is7kohWIhB3fr_pYHeynO4TYh8VXBuyymWxpzFRoBn6X0d6KolBv1oph5UzGAZ4qjiZHwvWoivMSKxTvPps28UiJLQxUORHQBoJuiL/s1600/runner+in+progress+crop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I chose turquoise as the primary background for the black and white calligraphy. Small colorful floral arrangements of spray roses, dahlias, and freesia kept the confetti theme alive on the tables.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9ks3n5LkcBcFY-h-yxRalwCypCrQ6Bj9yPukVJXwH5kFE3gZIaYc-a8WnVFSJClf_tlcdRwa71X2Q0n1wmHUv1exqWj7Tbagu-yP4cZKEcz0gfyqr8ppUq5hD9Xdtgl7Hbk3ddRoDnA5/s1600/runner+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9ks3n5LkcBcFY-h-yxRalwCypCrQ6Bj9yPukVJXwH5kFE3gZIaYc-a8WnVFSJClf_tlcdRwa71X2Q0n1wmHUv1exqWj7Tbagu-yP4cZKEcz0gfyqr8ppUq5hD9Xdtgl7Hbk3ddRoDnA5/s1600/runner+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also created a custom piece of calligraphy artwork that doubled as a party decoration and a gift for the lovely couple to take home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ONVXG5tbBslzKhTvdY86pfAAB9GDsUigJm8ILWUiBHBOG2RhnuJy1wbi6N_9N3IfctTN2IOQDxxhPuQtHZ9lLvyTpWer9MnpjKgdPlS3mm2oHlpLCu8pGKCNAoZY6TfOxaQJMWy-FoSF/s1600/names.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ONVXG5tbBslzKhTvdY86pfAAB9GDsUigJm8ILWUiBHBOG2RhnuJy1wbi6N_9N3IfctTN2IOQDxxhPuQtHZ9lLvyTpWer9MnpjKgdPlS3mm2oHlpLCu8pGKCNAoZY6TfOxaQJMWy-FoSF/s1600/names.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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One challenge with a confetti themed party is how to incorporate the confetti without making a huge mess. We contained the confetti in a few ways. Clear balloons make a great place to add a little confetti and these are an easy DIY touch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbovMQ0RYcUaCFNxGMAs1XNbLIf03flbp8GQn2DORDsweJMcuBBVm554VmSR4rDVhkA9lIE_OjVE-y-MYEASRZsp3ClphugCTvXPaWxgkhnJ5Q2q4QRvHMimAd51eO7LowRWT37VQ-MEk4/s1600/IMG_5078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbovMQ0RYcUaCFNxGMAs1XNbLIf03flbp8GQn2DORDsweJMcuBBVm554VmSR4rDVhkA9lIE_OjVE-y-MYEASRZsp3ClphugCTvXPaWxgkhnJ5Q2q4QRvHMimAd51eO7LowRWT37VQ-MEk4/s1600/IMG_5078.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Take tissue paper and fold it several times and insert it into a 1" circle punch to make custom confetti. Then take your confetti to a party store when you place your balloon order. Use clear balloons and stuff them with a handful of the confetti. This is easier with two people, one to hold and one to stuff. Try not to crinkle the confetti so it lays nice and flat inside the balloon. The stores will inflate your confetti filled balloons and have them ready the day of the party. Diddams did not charge any extra for the confetti and only stipulated that it had to be made out of paper.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKmMrFxx8M7aZaaL51fhJ5RJ4OA2qovUc3PCfc4SOEHSzhyl5dcYJu5al3Acrj8q-3JoWQS13StJXZKYm4BjK4i19BUjkDZEdkChvciIB36MbJgixF2IKkePCjQ40LUy3My4qse0BXN5S/s1600/balloon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKmMrFxx8M7aZaaL51fhJ5RJ4OA2qovUc3PCfc4SOEHSzhyl5dcYJu5al3Acrj8q-3JoWQS13StJXZKYm4BjK4i19BUjkDZEdkChvciIB36MbJgixF2IKkePCjQ40LUy3My4qse0BXN5S/s1600/balloon.jpg" width="538" /></a></div>
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For a little fun with this after the party (or during!), if you pop the balloon the confetti sprays out and showers you. That will make a mess, but it would probably also make a great picture. </div>
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The second way I got a confetti effect in the decorations without the mess, was by creating confetti garlands.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMpA0iv47kCI0GhKNeWdxEX-wtOwDgHaQ-eDyJdY1YFvhbpVNN1-uSBrddlpRb4Bno4UbD9M5X7I7ExfqKq5Joxzd9oxD81D9trr3LmSHze8oCBo7rjBk5k8uGrZ72aoC1k54MjPPJ5Gp/s1600/garland+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMpA0iv47kCI0GhKNeWdxEX-wtOwDgHaQ-eDyJdY1YFvhbpVNN1-uSBrddlpRb4Bno4UbD9M5X7I7ExfqKq5Joxzd9oxD81D9trr3LmSHze8oCBo7rjBk5k8uGrZ72aoC1k54MjPPJ5Gp/s1600/garland+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=2NXAKHDBMSB5UO32">Silhouette Cameo</a> to cut different sized circles in all the colors of the party. Then I took a stack of circles and sewed straight through the center of each circle one at a time to create a garland. This was the first time I had ever sewn a garland and it was by far one of the easiest and quickest ways I have ever put one together. Try it! Just realize it might dull your needle a bit. I made enough confetti garlands to hang down throughout the house and give the impression of falling confetti.<br />
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With the theme based around funfetti cupcakes, these <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CBYIY2Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CBYIY2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NU4RFK3EN23NMLBA">cupcake wrappers</a> made the perfect complement to the featured dessert.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaV6z1ZHz2Y0B0Jg7G8nMPa-oLqJu_dmi4Kl_b29nRh6JVIh6y9pnongurKjBdw2sVWytC25WB3uWJ1mfddHJS0WdNhstBrJyDv7K45tbtylZC1NZ9roDf6Haqxwx11yc3MW817e2skTZl/s1600/cupcake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaV6z1ZHz2Y0B0Jg7G8nMPa-oLqJu_dmi4Kl_b29nRh6JVIh6y9pnongurKjBdw2sVWytC25WB3uWJ1mfddHJS0WdNhstBrJyDv7K45tbtylZC1NZ9roDf6Haqxwx11yc3MW817e2skTZl/s1600/cupcake.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was able to squeeze in one last confetti decoration and use <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/84788033/spots-japanese-washi-tape-mt-purple?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=mt%2Bspots">Washi Tape</a> (yay!) in packaging the utensils. For a backyard BBQ, It seemed like a convenient (not to mention cute) idea to package the utensils and napkins inside a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/103451669/100-4-x-75-inch-white-flat-glassine?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=4x7.5">glassine bag</a> so the guests could hold it all easily with one hand while filling their plates.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkuiNPaJgYh8J9jXT6NMesVZWVYTedhoXcVNcIVrOhGJNgvBxBaU7N0X8IHuneJ5X1cdATtkgllBgd7z0AtEMoGsFpDH_1rf8NIy9IS7KsYjgysw89C67NTqKUoUM3_BJlG1MT63pyaV8/s1600/utensils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkuiNPaJgYh8J9jXT6NMesVZWVYTedhoXcVNcIVrOhGJNgvBxBaU7N0X8IHuneJ5X1cdATtkgllBgd7z0AtEMoGsFpDH_1rf8NIy9IS7KsYjgysw89C67NTqKUoUM3_BJlG1MT63pyaV8/s1600/utensils.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And the confetti washi tape was too good to pass up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_cwpo33957IBMAwNFj3kNIkWHebUVz__4Xg7kDLVAXHmWqQHZ1y_C8Op9R-xhiAQbHzsZ4ePJNJ7PxnC8J6s97uyHYNPlGFCnpsmWHlAmx0mkdJh5f7VpqfOyO480o4UrDfzGzhP9VrK/s1600/utensils+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_cwpo33957IBMAwNFj3kNIkWHebUVz__4Xg7kDLVAXHmWqQHZ1y_C8Op9R-xhiAQbHzsZ4ePJNJ7PxnC8J6s97uyHYNPlGFCnpsmWHlAmx0mkdJh5f7VpqfOyO480o4UrDfzGzhP9VrK/s1600/utensils+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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By all accounts the party was a success and the guests loved the festive theme. They sent a few photos for me of the final party prep.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSMRzg5cbbwWTcU5ViAChEHE1tQWHUYHfyJ-a_kz1umesxsQxmZQiK4NdZJnxwgJyx4CxjH_VdGqwLpvRKt3f_IM0xNeDeKqMTlBhhyDBKOZ7k3deteD_HE1lk2nEHCfScgN0ZtElw3Hs/s1600/runner+collage+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSMRzg5cbbwWTcU5ViAChEHE1tQWHUYHfyJ-a_kz1umesxsQxmZQiK4NdZJnxwgJyx4CxjH_VdGqwLpvRKt3f_IM0xNeDeKqMTlBhhyDBKOZ7k3deteD_HE1lk2nEHCfScgN0ZtElw3Hs/s1600/runner+collage+two.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's to wishing Edwin and Amanda a lifetime of wedded bliss.<br />
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And to you for your patience with how many times I said 'confetti' and 'calligraphy' in this blog post.<br />
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Supplies List:<br />
White frame - Michaels<br />
Flower vases - Michaels<br />
Art paper roll for table runners - Michaels<br />
Tissue paper and cardstock - Michaels<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PSBMP4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000PSBMP4&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=MXGOVWW77NJOBECS">Sharpie</a> - amazon<br />
Utensils, plates, table cloths, napkins - Partypail.com<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CBYIY2Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CBYIY2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NU4RFK3EN23NMLBA">cupcake wrappers</a> - amazon<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/84788033/spots-japanese-washi-tape-mt-purple?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=mt%2Bspots">Washi Tape</a> - Pretty Tape on Etsy<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/103451669/100-4-x-75-inch-white-flat-glassine?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=4x7.5">Glassine bags</a> - wrap works on Etsy<br />
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-25011757153990570222015-08-23T22:42:00.002-07:002015-08-24T20:04:34.475-07:00Made with Love | A Free Printable Calligraphy Gift Tag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClX_8Dr8Q61h0xPFfnVTXCRol8LNiAYXy-S4TDXuihETToFqfQRAkKrgms9t7DRI3_3D4Ah-5ZEOQJV_FfbcZH69t9A2VlkGI0-KiSpMIiiSPMxV-DfsUDZhFvtg2an_yH7GtO00LbJdT/s1600/tag+title+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClX_8Dr8Q61h0xPFfnVTXCRol8LNiAYXy-S4TDXuihETToFqfQRAkKrgms9t7DRI3_3D4Ah-5ZEOQJV_FfbcZH69t9A2VlkGI0-KiSpMIiiSPMxV-DfsUDZhFvtg2an_yH7GtO00LbJdT/s1600/tag+title+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here we go...I am attempting a quick blog post. I'm trying to get better about spontaneous blogging, no overthinking, no worrying, just a few thoughts and something fun to share. I have to say after years of primarily technical writing as an engineer, I have found it surprisingly difficult to write with my personality instead of extracting it out.<br />
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Today's 'quickie' is for all you fellow Makers out there, a little love for your handmade gifts. You spend hours lovingly hand making gifts for friends and family, and I think that deserves a little something special for the gift wrap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6wO-S4fiPLPG_EMd5Bdrvr2iV1NuZv8gnByQz149x3CNzHog29HjF2sFMewr-EdmUk1j7iBend7aB2xAYMHxw68c1PgSBpqJGuFoxhW_jQegab3Axlz_6Kosbqf3yi-RCstNbrt78vhf/s1600/mason+jar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6wO-S4fiPLPG_EMd5Bdrvr2iV1NuZv8gnByQz149x3CNzHog29HjF2sFMewr-EdmUk1j7iBend7aB2xAYMHxw68c1PgSBpqJGuFoxhW_jQegab3Axlz_6Kosbqf3yi-RCstNbrt78vhf/s1600/mason+jar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The inspiration for this tag actually came from a friend. She is knitting a number of gifts for friends and family and asked if I could create a calligraphy design that she could print on care instruction cards. After a few tries, I had a design I was happy with and I am sharing it here free for anyone to use!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BghiybDXvpNhztUFrAxMsN1zH_s03Z9YkyFWwJHDCVbl7FOhy0xHfCWOHKQrEFbMx2UlVfdMdbe78ojqNYkh_uurGxqJ6J5DM83Hvfcxpuy-18xq5QPdkepnfElINbKAOPscthp7Z8HT/s1600/square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BghiybDXvpNhztUFrAxMsN1zH_s03Z9YkyFWwJHDCVbl7FOhy0xHfCWOHKQrEFbMx2UlVfdMdbe78ojqNYkh_uurGxqJ6J5DM83Hvfcxpuy-18xq5QPdkepnfElINbKAOPscthp7Z8HT/s1600/square.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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So <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqYnJHLXc2RkZ3TlE/view?usp=sharing">here</a> you go. You can print it, resize it, cut it into any desired shape. Have fun with it! Just please do not use this tag for profit or sell it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIwLz0n_LgiXMD8cGnHbJp69DLNvOp_H-FRxlu4tgdMLqQRFSfZO040lX0a8wbCmdPRTjpdK1xq-e98xhvnTRl9sk5Ud1kOCjsIsC0ts-rh3u39xA4VSK814UOTlab7aDKZtqKtRRXGaC/s1600/tag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIwLz0n_LgiXMD8cGnHbJp69DLNvOp_H-FRxlu4tgdMLqQRFSfZO040lX0a8wbCmdPRTjpdK1xq-e98xhvnTRl9sk5Ud1kOCjsIsC0ts-rh3u39xA4VSK814UOTlab7aDKZtqKtRRXGaC/s1600/tag.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I'd love to see how you style it and your handmade gifts as well. Tag me on instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/theselittleloves/">@theselittleloves</a> or find me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/These-Little-Loves/307824546011634?ref=bookmarks">Facebook</a>. Need inspiration for handmade gifts? Here are a few of my most popular handmade gift ideas: a <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/11/free-pattern-washable-bunny-ear-teether.html">bunny ear teether</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/07/waterproof-picnic-blanket-and-handle.html">waterproof picnic blanket</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-fathers-day-diy-dad-will-actually-use.html">grilling prep plates</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/01/a-better-burp-cloth.html">burp cloths</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/free-template-family-birthday-and.html">family celebration plaque</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/09/diy-burlap-monogram-art.html">monogram art</a>.<br />
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Enjoy!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-57819418543504163622015-08-21T15:17:00.001-07:002016-01-08T21:06:12.469-08:00The Littlest Mermaid | A Sparkly Teal and Purple First Birthday Party <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Look at this stuff, isn't it neat? Wouldn't you think my collection's complete? Wouldn't you think I'm the girl, the girl who has...everything...<br />
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I can't tell you how many times I sang this song while planning my niece's first birthday party. The first time I broke out into a passionate rendition of Part of Your World, my family was amused. The second time perhaps they were a bit annoyed. I'm guessing by the fourth time they were slightly concerned for my mental health. What can I say? My love of The Little Mermaid runs deep. It probably has something to do with the fact that I was 6 when the movie released and every song is etched permanently in my brain.<br />
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This party was fun for so many reasons, not the least of which was that I have had way too much pent up 'girl party' energy. This was the first birthday party for my niece! I now have two nieces, but until now the birthdays have been all boy...<a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/11/a-tool-themed-second-birthday-party.html">tools</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/02/finding-nemo-smash-cake-sugar-cookies.html">nemo</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/04/an-airplane-2nd-birthday-party.html">planes</a>, <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/05/lightning-mcqueen-cars-3rd-birthday.html">cars</a>. I practically begged my sister-in-law to let me throw this party. She agreed and I promptly bought out the fabric store of sparkly teal and purple tulle. I must have been asked about 5 times what I was making while walking through the fabric store.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCgRwenb7mYLlrzhWiM6NRJdFxRqyBBeCyKiIU63J1MK0-PaoRVR4dq_qyw4vS0ZUB0ihA5yCrxQPPgKRBZdnRKGQYOKbNjvnAYq3BWaDxee8cpPGjBfpgTBskaU5LzqKQ1bFdCR7rTOG/s1600/IMG_4738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCgRwenb7mYLlrzhWiM6NRJdFxRqyBBeCyKiIU63J1MK0-PaoRVR4dq_qyw4vS0ZUB0ihA5yCrxQPPgKRBZdnRKGQYOKbNjvnAYq3BWaDxee8cpPGjBfpgTBskaU5LzqKQ1bFdCR7rTOG/s1600/IMG_4738.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The decorations all started with the idea to make seaweed. Very girly, pretty seaweed. We hung seaweed from tables, chairs, the front door, the gift table, even the chandelier. The tulle naturally twisted when cut into the seaweed strips and gave it the perfect look. Check out my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2016/01/sparkly-mermaid-seaweed-diy-party.html">DIY seaweed blog post</a> for detailed instructions on how to make your own!<br />
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The seaweed made a great backdrop for the party garland.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmXA4dr7U5idOjBOc4jTioZMZwzcZhflwnPdic37IO9DFOaT_sJ5zHS-njXfIgO4vd7YzYhkDYZFbJd5PW4-sdWBJQLtuhGwa0JhAn31LGnLcnqNCeS-XvM-FHILG4KNTXYYMvTPg_OOb/s1600/mermaid+on+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTmXA4dr7U5idOjBOc4jTioZMZwzcZhflwnPdic37IO9DFOaT_sJ5zHS-njXfIgO4vd7YzYhkDYZFbJd5PW4-sdWBJQLtuhGwa0JhAn31LGnLcnqNCeS-XvM-FHILG4KNTXYYMvTPg_OOb/s1600/mermaid+on+banner.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Big impact for a cheap price.<br />
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A few seahorses even found their way into the seaweed for effect.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iwtk_-z9wI-aep562FgxIozmLuX7qtbsCkI8oNxZTCoiVzPWivNvASpfSZAxk8pMlz6UvS80dVNqukz3lrT37Ng5uWer14DMNCDASrqiBXZuZlCPzhmdgogXN-Ib3EbEN0_T-VnThUAq/s1600/chandelier+seahorse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iwtk_-z9wI-aep562FgxIozmLuX7qtbsCkI8oNxZTCoiVzPWivNvASpfSZAxk8pMlz6UvS80dVNqukz3lrT37Ng5uWer14DMNCDASrqiBXZuZlCPzhmdgogXN-Ib3EbEN0_T-VnThUAq/s1600/chandelier+seahorse.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Instead of going full 'under the sea' I kept the decorations to the prettier of the sea creatures: mermaids, seahorses, starfish, and clam shells.<br />
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Everything was purple, teal and white and almost everything had a shimmer or a sparkle. Even the utensil packets were held together with sparkly green washi tape. Like I said, pent up girlyness.<br />
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My <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=MVFKY7S3IOYP5LNV">Silhouette Cameo</a> cut the glitter paper (the kind individually wrapped in a plastic sleeve that doesn't shed glitter) like a dream.<br />
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Purple floral cuttings from my mom's tree, a party store net, a fish bowl sand scene, and some capiz shells finished off the look.<br />
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As an afternoon party, we kept the food simple with croissant sandwiches, chips and dip, and fruit salad. Fitting with the color scheme of the party we turned lemonade teal by using blue raspberry water enhancer drops.</div>
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The desserts, as always, were my favorite. All the cookies were decorated with a glaze icing with a royal/buttercream icing for the detailing. </div>
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Inspired by <a href="http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/2014/06/decorated-mermaid-cookies/">sweet sugar belle</a>'s use of a whale cutter turned into a mermaid, I attempted my own version. I couldn't believe how well they turned out! Using a food coloring pen to draw a guideline on the cookie before decorating is genius and a huge help for an elaborate cookie. </div>
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I clearly had way too much fun with this cookie theme.</div>
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My SIL requested two cakes, a smash cake for the birthday girl and a larger cake for cutting and serving to guests. With two cakes, you need two cake toppers, which we of course DIY'ed using bamboo skewers, glitter paper, ribbon, and a glue gun. </div>
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Ombre rosettes covered each cake, one in purple and one in teal. I highly recommend this <a href="http://www.rockrecipes.com/white-velvet-cake/">white velvet cake</a>, with a <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/the-best-homemade-cream-cheese-buttercream-frosting/#_a5y_p=590723">cream cheese frosting</a>, and raspberry preserve filling. Delicious!<br />
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And easily color-able if you want a little surprise for guests when cutting the cake. </div>
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Our darling Grace was the star of the show and it was a blast spoiling her on her big day.<br />
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Like these decorations, but not enough time to DIY? Check out my etsy listing <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/262707275/mermaid-birthday-party-seaweed-and?ref=shop_home_active_1">here</a> while it lasts!<br />
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Supplies List:<br />
Glitter Paper, Ribbon - Michaels<br />
Utensils, plates, cups, washi tape - Hobby Lobby<br />
<a href="http://beta.silhouettedesignstore.com/view-shape/48356">Mermaid</a>, <a href="http://beta.silhouettedesignstore.com/view-shape/59150">shell</a>, <a href="http://beta.silhouettedesignstore.com/view-shape/58887">seahorse</a>, <a href="http://beta.silhouettedesignstore.com/view-shape/26366">starfish</a> patterns - silhouette design studio<br />
Tulle - Joanns<br />
Favor buckets - Target and Hobby Lobby<br />
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Looking for more mermaid party inspiration? Check out my mermaid party pinterest board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/kevinandbethany/graces-mermaid-party/">here</a>.<br />
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This is not a sponsored post and all supplies were purchased by me or my family.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-90067629841077420902015-05-03T21:48:00.005-07:002016-02-23T20:51:59.785-08:00Lightning McQueen: A Cars 3rd Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And now start the years of child-requested birthday party themes. It all started like this...<br />
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Over Christmas I casually asked my son 'what kind of party do you want for your birthday?'. Silly me thought he wouldn't understand the question. Wrong. He is my child. Of <i>course</i> he knows what a party theme is. He paused, very carefully considered this question, then answered 'A Lightning McQueen birthday party!' And there you have it. It could have been worse.<br />
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At first I was a little sad that I didn't get to pick anymore, but then I realized that I now knew exactly what would delight him on his special day. And although technically a licensed character party, it didn't mean I had to plaster Lightning's face on every single party supply. So I looked for a little inspiration. I found it in the grocery checkout aisle, oddly enough.<br />
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For about a year and a half my son has asked for a Lightning balloon almost every time we go to the grocery store. The grocery store owners, in their plan to make checking out a constant parenting battle (candy, balloons, movies...come on!), place balloons at the checkout lines. My son's favorite happens to be a giant balloon of Lightning in all his bright red glory against a blue backdrop. Color scheme...check. Or should I say KaChow? Red and blue, with a little black and white check pattern thrown in for good measure. And I could finally have an excuse to delight my little one with his favorite balloon. In fact, this balloon is still keeping us company, floating beside his trusty sidekick Mater in our living room.<br />
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With the color scheme settled, I ordered a host of adorable party supplies. I picked one item with Lightning's face and the rest was in the solid colors of the party theme. Just enough, but not overdone. See those checkered flag cups? They get a sweet personalization later. Just wait until we get to the party favors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil50X0zKdrLdg_xIIWz-by6c-n1xDDyPkwTf9JgOVgtJxcjhan611tdfOS6m-gn5JuEJkqu8rxxo_U44dceieydYKyfzCOwhXwG-RstjtyaDL-RQyrhMq4BnfRJOw-gMWQ8ULYYgvoVut_/s1600/party+supplies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil50X0zKdrLdg_xIIWz-by6c-n1xDDyPkwTf9JgOVgtJxcjhan611tdfOS6m-gn5JuEJkqu8rxxo_U44dceieydYKyfzCOwhXwG-RstjtyaDL-RQyrhMq4BnfRJOw-gMWQ8ULYYgvoVut_/s1600/party+supplies+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next came the invitations. It should be no surprise that I am usually a DIY invitation kind of person. However, my limited artistic skills stop far short of being able to draw a convincing Lightning McQueen. Instead, I found some adorable <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/187571983/instant-download-cars-clip-art-cars?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=cars">cars artwork</a> on Etsy for use on the invitations and a cars garland that might just get its very own blog post. As is my party custom, I bought a special washi tape for envelope decoration, this time in a road pattern.<br />
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To keep the party from being a visual assault of Lightning's face, I brainstormed other elements to complement the theme. It turns out there was a lot to choose from: tires, license plates, Route 66 signs, checkered flags, traffic cones, roads. I picked two and got started. Just kidding. I used all of them. Why not? Tire and license plate garlands complemented the cars character garland perfectly. Route 66 signs were altered to say 'Cole is 3' and placed around the yard as decoration.<br />
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All the tables were covered with red and blue table covers to which I added DIY road table runners and traffic cones (or 'cozy cones' as my sons calls them). I made 4 of the road table runners for a whopping $5! Taking a black paper table cover, I cut it into 4 long strips and then added pieces of white duct tape. Big impact for a small price.<br />
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Checkered flags were added in small doses to the party. Dessert plates, favor cups, and as part of the crepe paper backdrop for the dessert table.<br />
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I made five strands of crepe paper garlands to form the backdrop for the dessert table. In hindsight I would have either made 4 more full garlands or added three more. The effect was fun and festive, however, and looked great on the invariably windy day that is always Cole's birthday.<br />
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We had fresh fruit (strawberries, grapes, blueberries) portioned out into blue chevron treat cups. Red forks wrapped in blue napkins with road washi tape rings sat in blue metal pails, while Lightning McQueen and checkered flag plates provided large and small options for guests. The red and white striped straws were the perfect touch to the cups I order for every party. </div>
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The party was set in the afternoon from 3-5, so the menu was kept fairly simple. For snacks we provided fresh fruit and feta/caramelized onion tarts from Trader Joe's (always a party favorite). Dessert were my standard go-to lineup of Mexican chocolate cake (also in cake pop form) and the best sugar cookies you have ever tasted.<br />
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My son delighted in the cake more than I could have hoped for. He is still talking about it. It didn't hurt that it had two new surprise cars on the top as a gift! He loved the road and the tires and the 'cars sign' (as he calls it). I loved how bright and graphic it turned out. <br />
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A blue '3' candle was the final touch. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pcXvK-JCwfohMaym3v1dOxKUmpZKC4zwc2eM5kwZe7wxmiKaYQi9ir17hyphenhyphenMxOwjeJO1qavCS7GQ3xyc-_OaQEU-EwittPflJvM_VqR_424zC-Ac02OQnuI1LBjueA3ifZyXUHRieBs97/s1600/cake+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pcXvK-JCwfohMaym3v1dOxKUmpZKC4zwc2eM5kwZe7wxmiKaYQi9ir17hyphenhyphenMxOwjeJO1qavCS7GQ3xyc-_OaQEU-EwittPflJvM_VqR_424zC-Ac02OQnuI1LBjueA3ifZyXUHRieBs97/s1600/cake+close+up.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It turns out that cake pops are my baking cryptonite. I am convinced that those beautifully decorated and smooth cake pops are created in a lab somewhere by an evil villain bent on making bakers feel inferior. I just can't seem to get it right. Sugar cookies and fondant cakes, I can handle. Cake pops keep me humble. At least they taste good! I got over my frustration with them and served them anyway. The traffic light idea was too cute to pass up. Florist foam bricks covered in tissue paper served as an inexpensive alternative to a cake pop holder. </div>
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And now the sugar cookies. Ah, the sugar cookies. Sometimes these stress me out worrying that the decorations won't turn out like I picture them in my head. This time, it was pure fun. We had Lightning cookies, tires, checkered flags, Cs made into roads, red and blue 3s, and even a few piston cup cookies. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbjMdElBMuz0Li4iFRYPQ6qVkRfjopOt9MX3lS5dAdSf7F9yM-nvMMiopkeOMmZpAIVRK0VY1VIM478ZvrK3oqpb6Q00WKkxvWw-yENHIBD9VQh-I2mMOFWHmLApjED09bNttIP1VAD1W/s1600/cookie+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbjMdElBMuz0Li4iFRYPQ6qVkRfjopOt9MX3lS5dAdSf7F9yM-nvMMiopkeOMmZpAIVRK0VY1VIM478ZvrK3oqpb6Q00WKkxvWw-yENHIBD9VQh-I2mMOFWHmLApjED09bNttIP1VAD1W/s1600/cookie+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Drinks were also kept simple with water, lemonade, juice boxes, and Sangria (for the adults). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxBClAWO2rYJAqchDMAyhq7EiLRcjJefg0FCndyhwrXplxQE39rAlxpHSHNUIedRJkjwai-J5bYE-nR3N1lhSpdR7hwefOWSBaeewttAXJvrQ-CTK8NgQ3xV0c-vfJRW9XbmlWuQ14FCE/s1600/drink+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxBClAWO2rYJAqchDMAyhq7EiLRcjJefg0FCndyhwrXplxQE39rAlxpHSHNUIedRJkjwai-J5bYE-nR3N1lhSpdR7hwefOWSBaeewttAXJvrQ-CTK8NgQ3xV0c-vfJRW9XbmlWuQ14FCE/s1600/drink+table.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Perhaps the best decision I made in planning this party was the entertainment. We purchased a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003NSBMUI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003NSBMUI&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=BXXOKKWAOGA3YCKG">Bounce House</a> from amazon to serve as dual party entertainment and a birthday gift. Win win. This might just be the best $180 I have ever spent. The kids were fully entertained for the whole party and it stores up in a bag to be pulled out easily for any play date or party. Well worth the money in my opinion. In fact, I'm pulling it out next week for a random play date on a Wednesday.<br />
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We threw in a few <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CMH875E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CMH875E&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=JWM3JZOVEI75IKKC">inflatable tires</a> and the kids went nuts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8747DprDXPrjgcGRpluNjrL4FFFrlXfExGyqChwlwu_c4t7__ErxBUbhqRf5Zj9wfHyECzhl7b3CRiiPuYZD12A3QXi7la2fCt46CsXPEffJpf2GcklQrwnCjT4vmKdOF4ZRaxi4CTYoc/s1600/bounce+house+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8747DprDXPrjgcGRpluNjrL4FFFrlXfExGyqChwlwu_c4t7__ErxBUbhqRf5Zj9wfHyECzhl7b3CRiiPuYZD12A3QXi7la2fCt46CsXPEffJpf2GcklQrwnCjT4vmKdOF4ZRaxi4CTYoc/s1600/bounce+house+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Remember those checkered flag cups from earlier? They made the cutest personalized favor cups for the kids. I cut red vinyl with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=6JPS72C2UV2WTOMS">Silhouette Cameo</a> with each kids name in a free Cars font (<a href="http://fontzone.net/font-details/Magneto-Bold/">Magneto</a>) I found online!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DUcMBYA4sPYkKCU0mQ8kI-ZW4_PFg9TT9c0wtXKyQ1qntXWjWnGENq1nE_hFvdwF5nALGfrRsp-PdRw26REgu66Vi881NjHAhgBPwZuFTJyVUSMXWdavCaCVnTxj-U-byhIAQCp0xNGo/s1600/favor+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DUcMBYA4sPYkKCU0mQ8kI-ZW4_PFg9TT9c0wtXKyQ1qntXWjWnGENq1nE_hFvdwF5nALGfrRsp-PdRw26REgu66Vi881NjHAhgBPwZuFTJyVUSMXWdavCaCVnTxj-U-byhIAQCp0xNGo/s1600/favor+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Each cup held a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HM8BXXG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00HM8BXXG&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=3UDZCE6SXHMNZCHM">toy car</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DV63BBA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00DV63BBA&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=YI2G3QFWHPYQZJJJ">tiny traffic cones</a>, a fun straw, gummy snacks, and fruit leathers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia83ZC0Kh9DesipAgLKzWqVwWZY86UvxXSro5eK4jRAxzHvFildlJ3S_Ai6G63oxrgPJMNZI8KdGSJk5N3Mwl7yk1rWgPxmf3PgoSiGJDwUm3LmbTzmdZ5MLAVpws5233CqHuciiC1qq6V/s1600/favors+all.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia83ZC0Kh9DesipAgLKzWqVwWZY86UvxXSro5eK4jRAxzHvFildlJ3S_Ai6G63oxrgPJMNZI8KdGSJk5N3Mwl7yk1rWgPxmf3PgoSiGJDwUm3LmbTzmdZ5MLAVpws5233CqHuciiC1qq6V/s1600/favors+all.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEgE4REec4c5hrw-w-MFWlI4Fumhk9Do_2uxrgfWoj6WwM_BRXMMnUGmH1nO7yMBwNU5duYUJvTLv2qi853a8LPhT9PeDxtZNFeO1yDPh1-2fwcgj3KNqRdxBMSXckmRee60dHiLGCarl/s1600/favors+all+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEgE4REec4c5hrw-w-MFWlI4Fumhk9Do_2uxrgfWoj6WwM_BRXMMnUGmH1nO7yMBwNU5duYUJvTLv2qi853a8LPhT9PeDxtZNFeO1yDPh1-2fwcgj3KNqRdxBMSXckmRee60dHiLGCarl/s1600/favors+all+top.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And finally, I tweaked the invitations to make a few thank you cards. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1qWqb0Jg6r7PN6oAKgZHVWrHoPbIiBfKed63exR2tICsDvQgI1h1QKw5Bv9WnGcrVeEvbqCn4W5xoDsNXoowfsgtLh7SEDdzIQvjqK-3ICSmCIIiA1EeuddkgORop8dq2P0fFl4U7HHs/s1600/thank+you+notes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1qWqb0Jg6r7PN6oAKgZHVWrHoPbIiBfKed63exR2tICsDvQgI1h1QKw5Bv9WnGcrVeEvbqCn4W5xoDsNXoowfsgtLh7SEDdzIQvjqK-3ICSmCIIiA1EeuddkgORop8dq2P0fFl4U7HHs/s1600/thank+you+notes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I write this post, I feel as if the party details are fun and happy, but pale in comparison to the joy I felt that day. My son delighted in everything. He got it. I won't ever forget the smile on his face as people sang him Happy Birthday.<br />
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Three might just be the perfect age for a birthday.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKQ78laGgR3GewDLU-3rCZdkQs55unJvB4sHyRUrzDy4KsH5SapRKjLkDP9SnDwSVwDYfsroRaqH1GJxjcCM9BnBAwlCb3QoPrWMPkg5-eN1XK753XT7CPIisxOkcTVpDfp9aNBbkTLGj/s1600/cars+in+bounce+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKQ78laGgR3GewDLU-3rCZdkQs55unJvB4sHyRUrzDy4KsH5SapRKjLkDP9SnDwSVwDYfsroRaqH1GJxjcCM9BnBAwlCb3QoPrWMPkg5-eN1XK753XT7CPIisxOkcTVpDfp9aNBbkTLGj/s1600/cars+in+bounce+house.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://catchmyparty.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Catch My Party" src="http://photos.catchmyparty-cdn.com/misc/featured/cmp-featured-teal-120.png" title="Catch My Party" /></a></div>
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<b>Party Supply Resource List</b></div>
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Lightning McQueen Plates - Partypail</div>
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Checkered Flag Plates - Partypail</div>
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Red forks - Partypail</div>
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Blue Napkins - Partypail</div>
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Blue Chevron Treat Cups - Partypail</div>
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Red Plastic Table Cover - Partypail</div>
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Blue Plastic Table Cover - Partypail</div>
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Black Paper Table Cover - Partypail</div>
Red Striped Paper Straws - Partypail<br />
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Checkered Flag Cups - Partypail<br />
Premium Plastic Cups - Partypail<br />
Free Cars Font - <a href="http://fontzone.net/font-details/Magneto-Bold/">Magneto</a><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/187571983/instant-download-cars-clip-art-cars?ref=shop_home_active_1&ga_search_query=cars">Cars Artwork</a> - Etsy<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003NSBMUI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003NSBMUI&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=BXXOKKWAOGA3YCKG">Bounce House</a> - Amazon<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CMH875E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CMH875E&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=JWM3JZOVEI75IKKC">Inflatable Tires</a> - Amazon<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HHDTC4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B008HHDTC4&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=GUUG5A23A52C2I5M">Wilton Disney Cars Cookie Cutter Set</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/glass-drink-dispenser/?pkey=e%7Cdrink%2Bdispenser%7C19%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C48%7C%7C5&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules">Drink Dispensers</a> - Pottery Barn</div>
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<a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/tripoli-server/s494445">Cookie Stand</a> - Crate and Barrel</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005Y0FZBA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005Y0FZBA&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NDD6DD5EKWZYPUMY">Traffic Orange Cones</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000W38Y80/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000W38Y80&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=4V7ZVSZD7IJC3L3A">Lightning Balloon</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005Z3ZZUC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005Z3ZZUC&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=6NVBAHRLAF5OVYD4">Mater Balloon</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007N70YH2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007N70YH2&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=PTDRDP4WAXFDDP2E">C Cookie Cutter</a></div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0080I42QC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0080I42QC&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=YOW5MMNWIIWLU6UI">Three Cookie Cutter</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 14px;">{All party supplies were purchased by me with the exception of the plates, forks, napkins, straws, cups, and table covers which were provided by partypail.com. This is not a sponsored post and all the opinions are my own.}</span>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-15163641515615091462015-04-29T15:06:00.001-07:002016-02-23T21:00:33.885-08:00Pop Fizz Clink Craft | A Kate Spade Inspired Pinterest Craft Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sure you are all familiar with those ridiculous online quizzes, 'If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?' And while I have no idea/don't care what kind of tree I am, I have a pretty good idea what kind of party sums up my personality. You start with an awesome group of ladies, add Kate Spade inspired decorations, dessert, and bubbly, and top it off with a little Pinterest crafting. I call this party 'Pop Fizz Clink Craft'. And while I hope I am a little more complex in real life, I'm entirely comfortable with this soiree summing up my party personality. </div>
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This party started out as a vague idea to get the ladies in my mom's group together (sans kids) and turned into something a little more elaborate. Sometimes my inner party planner gets a little over excited. Someone really needs to keep her under control. This was my chance to spoil my mom friends (and myself!), and I ran with it. Think 'fancy' and 'crafting' don't go together? Keep reading. I will change your mind. </div>
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Let's start with the 'Pop, Fizz, Clink' part of the evening. The color scheme for the party was black, hot pink, and gold. My love of Kate Spade came through not only in the colors, but also in the polka dots, stripes, and the touches of glitter. And did I mention the champagne? A perfect excuse to break out my new gold calligraphy ink for some custom 'cheers' drink tags. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBVZrfmQnZmyNJbtgN91JsyWE6lqdRRzwDmG1Ldw1Z-NyPLLUIH2yLwHe71o-4v0AUZ4isJyZ_S41BuiJ3KIABIjkxEvR6pdvrM7Fj5xMWsHlqNiw29YVoxCEkCtFKNiANnz0Pj_fRCrr/s1600/updated+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBVZrfmQnZmyNJbtgN91JsyWE6lqdRRzwDmG1Ldw1Z-NyPLLUIH2yLwHe71o-4v0AUZ4isJyZ_S41BuiJ3KIABIjkxEvR6pdvrM7Fj5xMWsHlqNiw29YVoxCEkCtFKNiANnz0Pj_fRCrr/s1600/updated+collage+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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While I had my calligraphy pen out, I made name tags out of cardstock rectangles and painted the edges with gold gilding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXuNKu3Y968COvHKJ9CI27ZTUtd4UhnA0LnT-FPzF9hadWhs3tXBrVyWynGKALU-3AM6kOAy-mKmfx8eM5FNwzi3N_HlOEEjl3jxB66Wr9I9L7od9lfcWyv3FhKCMbUmdhke8pWgTpFE7/s1600/nametag+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXuNKu3Y968COvHKJ9CI27ZTUtd4UhnA0LnT-FPzF9hadWhs3tXBrVyWynGKALU-3AM6kOAy-mKmfx8eM5FNwzi3N_HlOEEjl3jxB66Wr9I9L7od9lfcWyv3FhKCMbUmdhke8pWgTpFE7/s1600/nametag+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hot pink plates, gold forks, striped napkins, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163178398/on-sale-25-or-50-hot-pink-striped-straws?ref=shop_home_active_6&ga_search_query=hot%2Bpink">hot pink straws</a> (with gold glitter washi flags), and plastic champagne glasses complimented the theme perfectly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_keTK-5xLyx_8CyWQSydhpIW5BdGxQHkuv-0HnVFdpQu_ytjdieynPOzP-XB4hZK3DrTguNqgv8d0XO4Nfz0LmuoSXxwh1y-kVySXMzQNrwzrhpVawOOQmad__LC1o6IdI6RZ66bqLF06/s1600/table+setting+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_keTK-5xLyx_8CyWQSydhpIW5BdGxQHkuv-0HnVFdpQu_ytjdieynPOzP-XB4hZK3DrTguNqgv8d0XO4Nfz0LmuoSXxwh1y-kVySXMzQNrwzrhpVawOOQmad__LC1o6IdI6RZ66bqLF06/s1600/table+setting+2.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
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This is the first party I have ever thrown at a location sight unseen, which I admit made me a bit nervous. I knew the location was going to be lovely, I just wasn't quite sure what decorations to bring. In the end, I stuck to a few tried and true options that served me well. I made several tissue paper tassel garlands as an inexpensive and versatile way to add a little festivity to any party setting. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoZafwCURewVEaWMepTObI6tcJgnPomTpZLgj-9JhH3gVIPwy8YxoSl_YClnsWbh-Fym19wR_IlBiHZxlf-U2n6CTubwSEYKwaHrLcl_4I81ozYLBCxfRv8hBMCoJFZgWPBhuuzgukjwP/s1600/tassels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoZafwCURewVEaWMepTObI6tcJgnPomTpZLgj-9JhH3gVIPwy8YxoSl_YClnsWbh-Fym19wR_IlBiHZxlf-U2n6CTubwSEYKwaHrLcl_4I81ozYLBCxfRv8hBMCoJFZgWPBhuuzgukjwP/s1600/tassels.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The tissue garlands and one pink glitter 'Pop Fizz Clink Craft' garland served as the general decorations, while I focused the rest of the decorating on the main crafting table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeWQdlHU0IMZxR4dtX1ZLCkZCNWWMH6KS-Eqz3Je5XjnmMnbouXEV4a32oHLOIXZx_yhVXaO_pRcsK6n00Od9xVkU5PoGq4VJwB58XXa-1ny9-KsTyx7dsZ36NYmD2rgKj1Nhb3vFO3EK/s1600/setup+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeWQdlHU0IMZxR4dtX1ZLCkZCNWWMH6KS-Eqz3Je5XjnmMnbouXEV4a32oHLOIXZx_yhVXaO_pRcsK6n00Od9xVkU5PoGq4VJwB58XXa-1ny9-KsTyx7dsZ36NYmD2rgKj1Nhb3vFO3EK/s1600/setup+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keeping the activities of the party in mind, I covered and decorated the table with disposable items. In other words, everything could get messy! The polka dot placemats were cut from a wrapping paper roll (from the dollar section at Michaels!), the black tablecloths were plastic, and hot pink glitter gift wrap served as the table runner. (As a courtesy to our hostess, I sprayed the table runner ahead of time with a clear coat to prevent glitter shedding. I hear you can also use hairspray.) Clay ring dishes along the length of the table gave an example of the completed project and also provided a place to hold rings if removed for crafting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrxnSWgePyqqz_RJpvY6QkGOzcpWfxOIP52eCfiBCKhPVEewqlWbP1THH4QSttiyLaC3FGbIdNq_HD5yZgu0Dd2D_ugzSNOw5W0pXeM5U-E2uqeEkdOFunv92SU_u3PoXiJ7hVoCTIj7c/s1600/table+with+glasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrxnSWgePyqqz_RJpvY6QkGOzcpWfxOIP52eCfiBCKhPVEewqlWbP1THH4QSttiyLaC3FGbIdNq_HD5yZgu0Dd2D_ugzSNOw5W0pXeM5U-E2uqeEkdOFunv92SU_u3PoXiJ7hVoCTIj7c/s1600/table+with+glasses.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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You can never go wrong with fresh flowers. I originally had my heart set on finding white anemones for the arrangements, but, alas, the stores were sold out. Plan B surprised me, however. I put together two simple arrangements in hot pink and white using ranunculus and small roses. Black and white striped ribbon tied them in perfectly to the decorations. I really love how these beauties turned out and they lasted me for almost two weeks at home after the party.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivi7aeQli9WhyphenhyphenjFULDx6uU8larBNOm6vc5xKYPI3iROEVsYcZ1WUDkZGMLkHYwPsCRxrqNTkq4jtgpbOITlbiqTmujqb1MqUEfUSxAEuSXLlPaoMDOvsUT5zlABLzq6T8leK1KvrRB_eRp/s1600/flowers+both+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivi7aeQli9WhyphenhyphenjFULDx6uU8larBNOm6vc5xKYPI3iROEVsYcZ1WUDkZGMLkHYwPsCRxrqNTkq4jtgpbOITlbiqTmujqb1MqUEfUSxAEuSXLlPaoMDOvsUT5zlABLzq6T8leK1KvrRB_eRp/s1600/flowers+both+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I am sure you can tell from the photos, the location of this party turned out to be spectacular. Can you believe this view? I get more relaxed just looking at this picture.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKYvBBsjXwZJZCkqH12j1-Gs4aUM02STDP7svI4Pn0BVJk5nnTmfF83ggkAqXVr5WONMme89njwXGQijO_ytzM0UusfH6zpIxnGDlPBOyUveQJAH1piWa8XtiMOkr6HH_q3P7wUFkh7S0P/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKYvBBsjXwZJZCkqH12j1-Gs4aUM02STDP7svI4Pn0BVJk5nnTmfF83ggkAqXVr5WONMme89njwXGQijO_ytzM0UusfH6zpIxnGDlPBOyUveQJAH1piWa8XtiMOkr6HH_q3P7wUFkh7S0P/s1600/view.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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With more than a few bakers in the group, we turned the event into a dessert potluck. This eased the burden on the hostesses and we had plenty of goodies to share.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdZg53aK5lLaxjtpK2DPIRF_tsV-YArd988-KNcLagGrFuQ-JbhJhKRTRg5Kyxo1HKz3iMJVxeLzeJnVA_JTi4LzP09NBRaBk0LJrWC6nwXnEc2cPqScOIhdH3XbSN_ro-iRnu34ebrEV/s1600/dessert+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdZg53aK5lLaxjtpK2DPIRF_tsV-YArd988-KNcLagGrFuQ-JbhJhKRTRg5Kyxo1HKz3iMJVxeLzeJnVA_JTi4LzP09NBRaBk0LJrWC6nwXnEc2cPqScOIhdH3XbSN_ro-iRnu34ebrEV/s1600/dessert+two.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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After a little mingling, dessert, and champagne, we moved to the second part of the evening....getting crafty. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxUEB6zSEaLSioxpsfu6x2jKR8HN5JIfxduU34IqFWPtHdSOmbFljmbT_jFzCNlDdiq2VKtkrC465_1cvSiQ9pHkZGB-jxF3f9NIY-0sHW6x-iSe0nEKn2YGqpHAxKTBA1saeWreHH7NF/s1600/craft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxUEB6zSEaLSioxpsfu6x2jKR8HN5JIfxduU34IqFWPtHdSOmbFljmbT_jFzCNlDdiq2VKtkrC465_1cvSiQ9pHkZGB-jxF3f9NIY-0sHW6x-iSe0nEKn2YGqpHAxKTBA1saeWreHH7NF/s1600/craft.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had two craft options available: painted burlap monogram art and a marbled clay ring dish. Each was pre-prepped to give the guests a chance to do both within the time limits of the party, if desired. </div>
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Cake plates, vases, flowers, and more tissue tassel garlands kept the crafting supplies looking festive on the buffet table. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuJxCXRQKevynoJtQPNVA8k2f8Ajd9ei1RYAEWrbdNg0N9CMnSIYwd7d-dmJBKSiDagoyLiE-YOxrcROzMkIfdT05AiVoJVsROY2TuRYVRwTypmAroxC18bJ9kxdhK2koxsKJMjtC3BnU/s1600/craft+table+setup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuJxCXRQKevynoJtQPNVA8k2f8Ajd9ei1RYAEWrbdNg0N9CMnSIYwd7d-dmJBKSiDagoyLiE-YOxrcROzMkIfdT05AiVoJVsROY2TuRYVRwTypmAroxC18bJ9kxdhK2koxsKJMjtC3BnU/s1600/craft+table+setup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Little touches that make all the difference. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKJgDRzDLO8icy2wDRtNrnsg7SgXvpsjXTjiO5EBGegNfb7YWZsxab_P81bQRtR0onhsVVCDUkBeHoZ9O0Q_w_pd5oSx7tUD_hTUqc0d8JQ7hS9r5vwjyLU32xCDSz8XNo3KS1KUZFnTD/s1600/craft+detail+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKJgDRzDLO8icy2wDRtNrnsg7SgXvpsjXTjiO5EBGegNfb7YWZsxab_P81bQRtR0onhsVVCDUkBeHoZ9O0Q_w_pd5oSx7tUD_hTUqc0d8JQ7hS9r5vwjyLU32xCDSz8XNo3KS1KUZFnTD/s1600/craft+detail+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Supplies needed for the ring dish: small ramekin, rolling pin, oven-bake clay, cookie cutter, gold gilding, paint brush, and gloss glaze. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4fHdP1bhUeWzXNfXCK93lU-qG77n-a_oDgXUXC_Z5-e9NaU7lwOi37DorL0HqZ_6MhVt0C9WVdFZ3S4LpM2OfekzbJ8sOWN7Mbn5MnLiBwndwoWH1cRW6FlRf-mtUZMmTRX-CIMV_hHy/s1600/clay+supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4fHdP1bhUeWzXNfXCK93lU-qG77n-a_oDgXUXC_Z5-e9NaU7lwOi37DorL0HqZ_6MhVt0C9WVdFZ3S4LpM2OfekzbJ8sOWN7Mbn5MnLiBwndwoWH1cRW6FlRf-mtUZMmTRX-CIMV_hHy/s1600/clay+supplies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Supplies needed for the burlap monogram: pre-cut freezer paper stencil, burlap, black paint, paint brush, jar, iron and ironing board. </div>
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To account for the baking time, the ladies started with forming the marbled clay ring dishes. You can find the full directions for these ring dishes <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/11/marbled-clay-ring-dish.html">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8CURpjty-CgLFqdoVOBno-i9OZsjiWmwzPGBSg0uiDgU1B684sxpSVY8sikYSajMTnpYaTd5fGssnMOblIv56q0WYpM77Itlfs1QaZz_rU1PqvvfMPquYva7kgHF6-X1-XxkNTI5qUB1/s1600/crafting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8CURpjty-CgLFqdoVOBno-i9OZsjiWmwzPGBSg0uiDgU1B684sxpSVY8sikYSajMTnpYaTd5fGssnMOblIv56q0WYpM77Itlfs1QaZz_rU1PqvvfMPquYva7kgHF6-X1-XxkNTI5qUB1/s1600/crafting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love how each bowl is completely unique. And the gilded edges keep them from looking anything remotely like a kindergarten project. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2ZAYS5IYvyT-ucQA48Hf_IdV0KDM3Mpw3aRa6KmKU5iE6Wl3jujJZkERnaFRyQgOjITd5RQ0FpZu2xwWys4BreydVPUuX_x_hHivBeJcpqeOe5j3Iu5zcVYc5eykbfxdEjXIQ__qb3-J/s1600/Clay+bowl+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2ZAYS5IYvyT-ucQA48Hf_IdV0KDM3Mpw3aRa6KmKU5iE6Wl3jujJZkERnaFRyQgOjITd5RQ0FpZu2xwWys4BreydVPUuX_x_hHivBeJcpqeOe5j3Iu5zcVYc5eykbfxdEjXIQ__qb3-J/s1600/Clay+bowl+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once the dishes were baking, we moved on to the burlap monogram art. (After a quick refresh on drinks and desert, of course. Crafting is <i>always</i> better with dessert.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4HCJMwFHbxixoLn9mPzDFNwlmrfkmp_P_ROVdQcpHXrjauB5kq-oZJM97bTJh4wdn61IRX6voUgewIv8KNCG1fyCllKeYU1lxdV0cFAD2e5GkdNNu8kekmxhdBiHf1MQH2e6vn3GfUMB/s1600/painting+and+dessert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4HCJMwFHbxixoLn9mPzDFNwlmrfkmp_P_ROVdQcpHXrjauB5kq-oZJM97bTJh4wdn61IRX6voUgewIv8KNCG1fyCllKeYU1lxdV0cFAD2e5GkdNNu8kekmxhdBiHf1MQH2e6vn3GfUMB/s1600/painting+and+dessert.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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You can find my original instructions for completing the burlap art <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/09/diy-burlap-monogram-art.html">here</a>. However, this time I tried a new method for making stencils. It was awesome! I used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=5KOMSPNYYKZZNR5H">Silhouette Cameo</a> to cut the stencils out of freezer paper (shiny side down). Making sure to keep track of all the little inner pieces of the letters, I transferred each stencil to its own ziplock bag to hand out at the party. After the parts of the stencil are placed on the burlap (shiny side down), ironing the stencil makes the freezer paper gently stick to the burlap. No taping, no shifting. After painting, the freezer paper easily peels right off. Brilliant. A big shout out to one of my crafting genius friends, Rachel, who introduced me to this idea. </div>
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Guests placed completed crafts on a separate drying table, allowing more room for dessert and multiple projects on the main crafting table. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhOcCfTAnbGlrocbBteX0GxX3sZ7kCfCrpqMvBltGQzApat7sxFVqb7AyB7Owd8MkokH-EFldU1NlZbk_l9bD60BNRYAzpoQEWz038Jyobphfu7711a9xZDp2bvADmoNutMXPX8JVEHAT/s1600/drying+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhOcCfTAnbGlrocbBteX0GxX3sZ7kCfCrpqMvBltGQzApat7sxFVqb7AyB7Owd8MkokH-EFldU1NlZbk_l9bD60BNRYAzpoQEWz038Jyobphfu7711a9xZDp2bvADmoNutMXPX8JVEHAT/s1600/drying+table.jpg" width="435" /></a></div>
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Our chosen projects required a few finishing touches at home. I sent everyone home with all the bits and pieces needed to finalize their crafts: take home instructions, gloss glaze in small glass vials, and a coupon to a craft store to purchase a frame for the burlap art. You will also want to consider how the projects will be transported home. I had sheets of freezer paper on hand to protect crafts and cars for transport home. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2AgG2UPq9uMkJpqiE2v4_YvuE70AH_qJpdNUUAXp3ICTKVbIuTZ2-MvEzul2w69YYLQQhSWELjy7DcyZcvnVG7oz3bsvP8EKbwBsJZuTuQ6252tIFJTyJc97zsSjgThyYIQtRayr6E8o/s1600/take+home+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2AgG2UPq9uMkJpqiE2v4_YvuE70AH_qJpdNUUAXp3ICTKVbIuTZ2-MvEzul2w69YYLQQhSWELjy7DcyZcvnVG7oz3bsvP8EKbwBsJZuTuQ6252tIFJTyJc97zsSjgThyYIQtRayr6E8o/s1600/take+home+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now that I have my first pinterest party under my belt, I've been stockpiling other project ideas for future parties! You can check them out on my pinterest board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/kevinandbethany/pinterest-parties/">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCuP_intavkZIMNk8j07ThZY43ATroNX-VlyXxzFyq0g9Z54SircLDrtoeLwRqnOzytG2zGdydYDVD2ExvD2yF-gS-04T0iO1nK5FP7i2SuLdrO3-TPNoPUhkTfLqui_ECZ1cAjOCFQ3l/s1600/flowers+outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCuP_intavkZIMNk8j07ThZY43ATroNX-VlyXxzFyq0g9Z54SircLDrtoeLwRqnOzytG2zGdydYDVD2ExvD2yF-gS-04T0iO1nK5FP7i2SuLdrO3-TPNoPUhkTfLqui_ECZ1cAjOCFQ3l/s1600/flowers+outside.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
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I hope this inspires you to get your ladies together for some crafting fun, or maybe just dessert. Either way, I'd love to see what you come up with. Tag me on instagram (@theselittleloves) or find me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/These-Little-Loves/307824546011634">Facebook</a>.<br />
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Like my party supply choices? Find all the details below! Don't hesitate to ask if I've forgotten anything.<br />
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<b>Party Supply Resource List</b><br />
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Plates, napkins, forks, champagne glasses, black table cloths - Partypail.com<br />
Hot pink straws - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163178398/on-sale-25-or-50-hot-pink-striped-straws?ref=shop_home_active_6&ga_search_query=hot%2Bpink">Etsy</a><br />
Gold glitter washi tape - Etsy and Michaels<br />
<a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/Fuchsia-Glitter-Wrapping-Paper/3650_042/42055513.html">Pink glitter wrapping paper</a> (for table runner) - Paper Source<br />
Black polka dot wrapping paper (for placemats) - Michaels<br />
All crafting supplies were from my personal stash or from Michaels and JoAnns<br />
Glass cake plate - Sur la Table<br />
Flower vases and black frame for burlap art - Michaels<br />
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<a href="http://catchmyparty.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Catch My Party" src="http://photos.catchmyparty-cdn.com/misc/featured/cmp-featured-teal-120.png" title="Catch My Party" /></a><br />
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-17918637833690032902015-03-11T10:38:00.001-07:002015-03-11T11:04:07.759-07:00DIY Superhero Cape | Superpowers Not Included <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_I4lNHJo6ChEy7x5yX5B-2gCW2DUwBGRjdEYz7jhLDDHILUx8_D86Fz21HxbnWMm-511aP8JBhNMBhfkXEZH8G6B9FjmpqhrLbMOB68me-qeNTyDR8BS18X28wMgP1cdj9MjCCbqh42s/s1600/title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_I4lNHJo6ChEy7x5yX5B-2gCW2DUwBGRjdEYz7jhLDDHILUx8_D86Fz21HxbnWMm-511aP8JBhNMBhfkXEZH8G6B9FjmpqhrLbMOB68me-qeNTyDR8BS18X28wMgP1cdj9MjCCbqh42s/s1600/title.jpg" height="538" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Apparently, when I think superhero I think spandex. So when I settled on making two superhero capes for my son and nephew for Christmas, I headed out to the fabric store and ventured down an aisle I had always avoided. There has always been something about the shine and the stretch of spandex that intimidates me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Not only did I think it was a great idea to use a completely new fabric, I somehow decided that appliquéing a design on the back of the cape would be an even better idea. So naive/overconfident me left the fabric store with not one, but two brightly colored spandex fabrics. There must be something in the air at JoAnns that says 'you can totally do this' because it wasn't until I got home that I realized I had no idea where to start. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">And now, I am going to publicly confess that my first attempt was basically a disaster. I tried to sew the fabric just as I would a regular cotton and hoped that the results would be acceptable for 2 year olds. I was horribly wrong. The results were a skewed and wrinkled mess. Ugh. So embarrassing. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHrbN3ECT4iLYxrDOI-u2h-k68MnmQVehDfoxmE0ADywg8DEgt6bEBPx29aBDglfH5w1c9MkW2YEmVbKFx9q-0Jcf6Du5Sm6lCV2kycUuIWxehKlhM1ol-LQmmdf9zXTC9ci6mPQanRMe/s1600/bad+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHrbN3ECT4iLYxrDOI-u2h-k68MnmQVehDfoxmE0ADywg8DEgt6bEBPx29aBDglfH5w1c9MkW2YEmVbKFx9q-0Jcf6Du5Sm6lCV2kycUuIWxehKlhM1ol-LQmmdf9zXTC9ci6mPQanRMe/s1600/bad+Collage.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I swallowed my pride and found this awesome tutorial online for <a href="http://crashcult.blogspot.com/2011/01/costuming-stretch-applique-tutorial.html">stretch </a></span><a href="http://crashcult.blogspot.com/2011/01/costuming-stretch-applique-tutorial.html">appliqués</a>. This lady saved my project! Armed with new understanding and some stabilizer, I started again. It turns out the whole thing was surprisingly simple. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Here is what you do. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Gather the necessary materials: </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">spandex fabric in two colors - 2/3 of a yard for the cape and a 9" x 9" square for appliqué</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">iron and ironing board</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">iron on tear away <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003W0J826/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003W0J826&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=FZDI4FQSDNRLQO2S">Stabilizer</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thelitlovblo-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003W0J826" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
(Totally Stable)</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">sewing machine with a stretch stitch</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">polyester thread</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">letter template</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">pencil</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">scissors</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Mark and cut the cape using the dimensions in the fre<span style="background-color: white;">e <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqRTUxSzViRnoxRnM/view?usp=sharing">pattern</a>. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Cut the top of the neck hole open as in this photo.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KqjXFJ0Z-tU_e5zf8UAIJflc2E1Qsyxsu4bHwsop17VIdOU1jcLvnUV8_tmV629ORa3ugOO28JQ_qGYDr995Nvhyphenhyphens9RS2XuSJZSOahD-ZbuVxQigNWA08a5aB7nkZvdQ_t2S15SP0sHN/s1600/cape+piece+cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KqjXFJ0Z-tU_e5zf8UAIJflc2E1Qsyxsu4bHwsop17VIdOU1jcLvnUV8_tmV629ORa3ugOO28JQ_qGYDr995Nvhyphenhyphens9RS2XuSJZSOahD-ZbuVxQigNWA08a5aB7nkZvdQ_t2S15SP0sHN/s1600/cape+piece+cut.jpg" height="640" width="624" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Create a letter template. I used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=HOTBR726G36PJUEX">Silhouette Cameo</a> to cut an 8" x 8" letter in cardstock. Cut an 8" x 8" square of the appliqué fabric and two squares of the stabilizer of the same size. Cut a third square of the stabilizer approximately 1" larger all around than the previous squares. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJ-zX9AnnwJFokigAXVbYbuShnQQXpSo0xXZQ5B1PPVe7sK1qGADYcTBmcGh719H_txBzTVbKX6izc48oWPUXcXoafMaJY8qGyf3b-eU9Vze6jgp06jHx84WlMC7zdVxA8JkzTaQsxXAv/s1600/good+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJ-zX9AnnwJFokigAXVbYbuShnQQXpSo0xXZQ5B1PPVe7sK1qGADYcTBmcGh719H_txBzTVbKX6izc48oWPUXcXoafMaJY8qGyf3b-eU9Vze6jgp06jHx84WlMC7zdVxA8JkzTaQsxXAv/s1600/good+collage.jpg" height="196" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Iron an 8" x 8" square of the stabilizer to the front of the appliqué fabric and stencil the letter onto the stabilizer with a pencil. Cut out the letter. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Iron the larger stabilizer piece to the back of the cape fabric where the letter will be placed. Turn the cape over and position the letter onto the front. Take the final 8" x 8" piece of stabilizer and iron it onto the letter, sandwiching the letter between the cape and the stabilizer. This will hold the letter in place for sewing without pins and will keep it from skewing and stretching. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2ZiSTeql-r7CapRjYFkIL05bsQRhcq6_9IV75gkIWjnS4CktkxJrhMIVRyBp2_Q5hE7C9R3AAvV1s9IWhFi9bgrscUOPBnYuYnBRMupA2wcYYmhliF2beLCSvCNafX1W3EFiizX8wAfJ/s1600/process+sewing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2ZiSTeql-r7CapRjYFkIL05bsQRhcq6_9IV75gkIWjnS4CktkxJrhMIVRyBp2_Q5hE7C9R3AAvV1s9IWhFi9bgrscUOPBnYuYnBRMupA2wcYYmhliF2beLCSvCNafX1W3EFiizX8wAfJ/s1600/process+sewing.jpg" height="526" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Sew around the edge of the letter and tear away the stabilizer. The stretch appliqué tutorial used a straight stretch stitch. In hindsight I would probably do the same. I instead used a zig zag stitch which I think looks great, but it was a beast to pull the stabilizer out of the stitches after sewing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYoFfQI9UzN5IEBy89KHyWeha3fIsXMfxEOlWi8Ru9uQlQLHUHbeid9QALVnk4OK2rlUJoW59pIFHp7ks52iH7hrRiM5rUTkaXup0hghRFnBsQ0ep0TonRcJXtpBQxX6FMxAIdLWv3Dzwp/s1600/process+sewing+done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYoFfQI9UzN5IEBy89KHyWeha3fIsXMfxEOlWi8Ru9uQlQLHUHbeid9QALVnk4OK2rlUJoW59pIFHp7ks52iH7hrRiM5rUTkaXup0hghRFnBsQ0ep0TonRcJXtpBQxX6FMxAIdLWv3Dzwp/s1600/process+sewing+done.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Look at what an improvement over the first attempt! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">To finalize the cape, sew two small pieces of 'sew on' velcro to the neck. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Q1vUbHbkpjvpSG3r92rQC5Au507FWAbE3pbZyZ0hq2TT61z_VTKvyjjiHaUrym0ACQysuCVyvTGLtxjSaLyxqJ7UabFIKaIGw8pVgAbRyFAnDfl95cfl5j43UG_Hnhtuzrjvgqn7fmpm/s1600/process+velcro+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Q1vUbHbkpjvpSG3r92rQC5Au507FWAbE3pbZyZ0hq2TT61z_VTKvyjjiHaUrym0ACQysuCVyvTGLtxjSaLyxqJ7UabFIKaIGw8pVgAbRyFAnDfl95cfl5j43UG_Hnhtuzrjvgqn7fmpm/s1600/process+velcro+closeup.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">The capes were a hit :). My son couldn't even wait for me to take this photo before he tried grabbing it to 'fly'. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Although he likes to fly, I am pretty sure his superpower is super speed. </span><br />
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-55603908939507776322015-03-06T21:08:00.000-08:002015-03-06T21:09:42.454-08:00Sending a Little Love | How to Put Together a Care Package<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It just so happens that my immediate family is spread out across three states and two countries. I really can't complain as I am one of the ones that moved away, but it does get hard at times. It gets especially difficult when someone is in need of a little extra care. My <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/10/a-dont-go-crazy-while-getting-better.html">first elaborate family care package</a> was crafted at just such a time. I had too much fun picking out items with the sole purpose of keeping my sister-in-law entertained while she was recovering from surgery. I couldn't make her dinner or take her dog for a walk, but I could give her something to keep the cabin fever at bay. It turned out to be the perfect creative outlet for all of my pent up desires to help, my love of mail, and probably my obsession with washi tape. </div>
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Judging by the popularity of my last care package post on pinterest and the blog, it seems more than a few of you like the idea of sending some love through the mail. In that case, I think we should be friends:). Anyone who likes to make others feel special with surprise gift boxes is awesome in my book. In an effort to provide a little inspiration for your next care package, I thought I would share a few of my tips and my most recent box crafted for a brother and sister-in-law in need of a little love. </div>
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<b>Start Collecting Surprises/Pick a Theme</b></div>
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Starting a care package can sometimes be the most daunting. What do you buy? How much do you get? Etc. My care packages always seem to grow organically. Whether starting from a particular theme or with just a few things that remind me of the recipient, it always seems to come together. My sister-in-law and I share lots of similar interests, so I began this care package by collecting personal favorites I knew she would love: my favorite <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H5WIBSE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00H5WIBSE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=MSZFLQWNCORXXARG">Rifle Paper Co Journal</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I0HVT82/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00I0HVT82&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=EBZ52GERUKEN6CRR">Butter Nail Lacquer</a>, a fancy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUTN4XA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BUTN4XA&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=N7SOP67NCUAM3LXW">Glass Water Bottle</a>, scone mix, handmade <a href="http://www.loveumadly.com/2012/07/diy-hair-bands-in-every-color/">elastic hair ties</a>, and my <a href="http://www.marykay.com/jwicker/en-US/Makeup/Eyes/Mary-Kay-Cream-Eye-Color/Metallic-Taupe/10025869.partId?eCatId=10019">favorite eye shadow</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtUzTfjH2lvRYJ06VMrjQzL79n9SO5UbhJbH0yi2DVtrVMqCTVo6Mi59bu-Ny2g5uZZ814Oxa-D_-BuXEZgPs8X5lwePQ3oRX51YHlKxBLm6YjhK7Z2h-dFsC-M1XtxunlkjxXPuIt0cP/s1600/goodies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtUzTfjH2lvRYJ06VMrjQzL79n9SO5UbhJbH0yi2DVtrVMqCTVo6Mi59bu-Ny2g5uZZ814Oxa-D_-BuXEZgPs8X5lwePQ3oRX51YHlKxBLm6YjhK7Z2h-dFsC-M1XtxunlkjxXPuIt0cP/s1600/goodies.jpg" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
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Though we didn't start with a guiding theme like my '<a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/10/a-dont-go-crazy-while-getting-better.html">don't go crazy while getting better</a>' care package, a loose theme of 'sending love' surfaced and I added a small garland to remind them that they are indeed very much loved. </div>
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No care package worth its weight doesn't have a little chocolate and caramel. Ghiradelli seemed appropriate for a box from the San Francisco bay area. </div>
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With a little help from the family, the pile of goodies grew from there.<br />
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<b>Recruit Others to Contribute</b></div>
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Sending a care package on your own is a great idea, but consider getting others involved. My brother and sister-in-law receiving this box happen to live overseas with no family close, meaning a box from the whole family would be just that much more special. I recruited everyone's help in coming up with ideas and adding gifts. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRac81RSr4KxzrJ6bXxojrMitDQFjGcfYsHM1Xl1tdbjntN1XAo4ZT7X0nvmJK4y_Opw5kEV1PdGfbVRqYXyBvtZTyZjEqzqYkbVHby4HW5vUTS4Fb3z1S5suD3dMGW5T8mRHnoh3FDhG0/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRac81RSr4KxzrJ6bXxojrMitDQFjGcfYsHM1Xl1tdbjntN1XAo4ZT7X0nvmJK4y_Opw5kEV1PdGfbVRqYXyBvtZTyZjEqzqYkbVHby4HW5vUTS4Fb3z1S5suD3dMGW5T8mRHnoh3FDhG0/s1600/dinner.jpg" height="400" width="395" /></a></div>
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Mom came through in a big way with two dinners in the form of a soup mixes. Coincidentally, I've always thought food should be considered an official love language. It is my book, at least. </div>
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Thinking that the box was a little heavy on the gifts for my sister-in-law, my husband added his <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176433070/the-gent-organic-beard-shampoo?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=the+gent+beard+shampoo&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">favorite beard shampoo</a>. Men sure do love their beards. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhir0dfGIovEyUVE5XbjmMzsPZ_w0BNXAdBFztcmQU6rSoJBp9R09jdHE-6SE1F8jv9Iut3hTsJlVHfHbrNZXYIZMWA7inlSrwBCEWp-T1HwxTMTtwrvamNz0G5jCbfnQkCGzKxKTks-0SK/s1600/goodies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhir0dfGIovEyUVE5XbjmMzsPZ_w0BNXAdBFztcmQU6rSoJBp9R09jdHE-6SE1F8jv9Iut3hTsJlVHfHbrNZXYIZMWA7inlSrwBCEWp-T1HwxTMTtwrvamNz0G5jCbfnQkCGzKxKTks-0SK/s1600/goodies+2.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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Perhaps the most special (<i>read 'tear inducing'</i>) were the stack of handwritten notes from each family member. To top off the stack of cards, I calligraphed Psalm 143:8 which has served a trusty reminder to me of God's love. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJXQPwykcPUMW-HzSh1mgcUK1Rj5lPi5CUwKxKELAW8HdZqiQL9DGk1O3tmpN7kk4O0SMzQSHMjFPWyW2KjGoQjyHx7nUGVJ_pTcttUOYPGPJ96BHsXu06eI_w5bBISW8ffGXoj7vqmCn/s1600/cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJXQPwykcPUMW-HzSh1mgcUK1Rj5lPi5CUwKxKELAW8HdZqiQL9DGk1O3tmpN7kk4O0SMzQSHMjFPWyW2KjGoQjyHx7nUGVJ_pTcttUOYPGPJ96BHsXu06eI_w5bBISW8ffGXoj7vqmCn/s1600/cards.jpg" height="640" width="620" /></a></div>
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Now that we had a good pile of goodies and notes, I started on the next care package phase - decorating. </div>
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<b>Pick a Color Scheme and Decorate</b></div>
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And with that statement I might have lost you. Yes, I do actually pick color schemes for my care packages. I fully realize this is probably ridiculous, and not everything in the box has to match, but I do pick a few colors to carry into the decorations. It really makes the care package seem intentional, lovingly put together, and extra special. It is no longer a box full of stuff, but a party in a box and a thoughtful gift. </div>
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For this care package, the first three items I purchased happened to match and I decided to make coral, red and teal my color scheme. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshJGg9bRvRxC9Qlv7YmEA9YTkNKDiPFMtiYtpTT9VY1HscA4UG-P7f3iXSvxnzo8-8HeXDMc0c-RSQQT0RnkVXzQrN_JP1psOpJVCe8o_nk5xn1WAvFY__0oRMDP8ao4lsgdIPFy28u_F/s1600/color+scheme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshJGg9bRvRxC9Qlv7YmEA9YTkNKDiPFMtiYtpTT9VY1HscA4UG-P7f3iXSvxnzo8-8HeXDMc0c-RSQQT0RnkVXzQrN_JP1psOpJVCe8o_nk5xn1WAvFY__0oRMDP8ao4lsgdIPFy28u_F/s1600/color+scheme.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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I add bows, tags, notes, bakers twine, washi tape and ribbons to <i>everything</i>. When in doubt, add more washi. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjId2ev9NTh7iOP0MDN_7wenfQ-fLzMHCjsOmNSG2cnYsmVTlQommG8NklsAYIQ3Qra3EtvH3g9JjRnUSEWw_hhJkDXWN7lRNRLCZG4icmEvXBUWvP7zLMUYO64A13uyrFHlNCPlDvwLTc0/s1600/inside+package+sharper%3F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjId2ev9NTh7iOP0MDN_7wenfQ-fLzMHCjsOmNSG2cnYsmVTlQommG8NklsAYIQ3Qra3EtvH3g9JjRnUSEWw_hhJkDXWN7lRNRLCZG4icmEvXBUWvP7zLMUYO64A13uyrFHlNCPlDvwLTc0/s1600/inside+package+sharper%3F.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpv2eLrp79cGH2wUd1JAjS4EqAA8g5zyLHO6NZa-jbqfF8TiHvwovu6XmNz2bXfn0-DSjm-u9qqhkXcymXV-VvNQSrAyYrtUi7yyNiwYZZN7pB7odTZg4BsqYMPdyGRHb4m1Ews2rGzBIq/s1600/banner+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpv2eLrp79cGH2wUd1JAjS4EqAA8g5zyLHO6NZa-jbqfF8TiHvwovu6XmNz2bXfn0-DSjm-u9qqhkXcymXV-VvNQSrAyYrtUi7yyNiwYZZN7pB7odTZg4BsqYMPdyGRHb4m1Ews2rGzBIq/s1600/banner+collage.jpg" height="160" width="640" /></a></div>
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I carry the decorations to the inside and outside of the box because it would be a crime to send such a fun care package in a dreadfully boring box. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6y_hNUetoo10gGcnW-xhJc8sJLah2Zb9F7Y4GpgeOKM2mKZN8PMG6IQJ66qaVvp5lEJlgE3AmuhyWRKA9zD8km09hvJe2ew01t555sgE_ReQp0qPdfQM1Vf6bK-4Vr1GK9g3CoPFLnzE/s1600/box+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6y_hNUetoo10gGcnW-xhJc8sJLah2Zb9F7Y4GpgeOKM2mKZN8PMG6IQJ66qaVvp5lEJlgE3AmuhyWRKA9zD8km09hvJe2ew01t555sgE_ReQp0qPdfQM1Vf6bK-4Vr1GK9g3CoPFLnzE/s1600/box+Collage.jpg" height="240" width="640" /></a></div>
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And there you have it. A box chock full of love and surprises ready to make its way to England and brighten two people's day.<br />
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We packed it all up, sealed it with absurd amounts of packing tape, made the most detailed customs form you have ever seen, and sent it off with love. Three days later we got a phone call and numerous texts as they discovered the little surprises inside :). Mission accomplished.<br />
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I'd love to see care packages that you put together for your friends and family! Connect with me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/These-Little-Loves/307824546011634">Facebook</a> and share your creations!<br />
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-76889933217651797762015-02-08T19:46:00.001-08:002016-02-23T21:09:47.354-08:00Twinkle Twinkle Little Star | A Tale of Two Baby Showers | Free Printable Invitations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is it! I have finally come to the last party I threw last year. Well, technically this is the last two parties I threw last year. When you have two baby showers to throw in two different states within a few weeks, you have to take a few shortcuts. The first of these twin showers was for a church friend in October and the second for my sister-in-law over Thanksgiving in Washington. Thankfully, with small bits of personalization and different settings it hardly felt like a repeat.<br />
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Once I decided on the lullaby 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' as inspiration for the shower, I knew that I wanted this party to look soft, almost dreamy. And there had to be stars, lots and lots of stars. To keep the color scheme sophisticated, I chose gold for the stars, and accented with a soft sage green and ivory.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NsgDA9CiVLQnaioZ3cXyjOKUu8hFucxSidLyDCjCgGszH5VglW36PJ-Z5q9ohTfdYE3OoCkPwPirS_zBfrjBscJjPoHZckKuKRLB-G87j45W9wgOc7ABFO37RwqTgBvXHeVjYV8Hd4Yt/s1600/invite+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NsgDA9CiVLQnaioZ3cXyjOKUu8hFucxSidLyDCjCgGszH5VglW36PJ-Z5q9ohTfdYE3OoCkPwPirS_zBfrjBscJjPoHZckKuKRLB-G87j45W9wgOc7ABFO37RwqTgBvXHeVjYV8Hd4Yt/s1600/invite+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I tried to set the tone of the party with the invitations. In the days of evites, I get a little giddy when I receive a beautiful invitation in the mail. Actually, I just get excited about snail mail in general. (Who wants to be pen pals?) Though DIY, these invitations are easier than they look. I started by calligraphing the phrase 'twinkle twinkle little star' and the guest of honor's name separately onto paper. Once dry, I scanned each one and imported them into a word file. I detailed the rest in text boxes, finalized the spacing, and printed the invitations four to a page on ivory card stock. (You can download the invitation <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0Oxaqc3dHcmdKRVpkMm8/view?usp=sharing">here</a> free for your personal use! Be sure to download the file and open, the preview often won't show the calligraphy.) For the finishing touches, I cut small stars out of glittery gold paper with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=JZ5ASGWQWZQIAI73">Silhouette Cameo</a> and attached them to the top of each invite with double sided adhesive squares. And finally, I added a small strip of light green ribbon across the center, attaching it to the back with gold star washi tape (which you'll see more of later). I carried the calligraphy style to the envelopes as an extra touch of pretty. Thankfully, the post office came through with pretty floral stamps that didn't ruin the vibe.<br />
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Next came the decorations. Stars, stars, a little ribbon, and more stars.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJHirevdNVBz4G_ACaL48l_le-p468d03ljC7E-iOJ0MXRCsA1JQRrn4bO2hk2gnxva6p0EUkYpoVVA-B4dJMRiIiWdOCzqpaSH6B3KwfeZW-m8N6me0NrCmBlLnq8eMFbawJu0tfxKmW/s1600/details+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJHirevdNVBz4G_ACaL48l_le-p468d03ljC7E-iOJ0MXRCsA1JQRrn4bO2hk2gnxva6p0EUkYpoVVA-B4dJMRiIiWdOCzqpaSH6B3KwfeZW-m8N6me0NrCmBlLnq8eMFbawJu0tfxKmW/s1600/details+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I cut sheets and sheets of stars in all sizes with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=ILW5WRPL4TMKL3LI">Silhouette</a> and strung them on light green ribbon. Vertical ribbons of stars hung down from the front door and the chandelier. Star garlands draped the front of the food tables and above windows. There was even a tiny star garland on the cake. I used two types of paper for the stars. The larger stars were cut from a soft shimmery gold paper while the smaller stars were cut from the same glittery gold paper as the invitations. (Note - the glittery gold paper was the nice kind, not the kind that sheds glitter everywhere. There is a <i>big</i> difference.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzj-bUxC2DEInTHbEvDMr1VAuLLXcEYccDPDQIY_Hup4nWWq2WAVXXA8gmOLC2uA_yBTM6jbCWZfCaQA_7flMgRYGtEJBx0jxqQ9aJqqbTzeqbv4bwAWuGNs-Oy-KPosH4HcjdUpEKWJu/s1600/details+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzj-bUxC2DEInTHbEvDMr1VAuLLXcEYccDPDQIY_Hup4nWWq2WAVXXA8gmOLC2uA_yBTM6jbCWZfCaQA_7flMgRYGtEJBx0jxqQ9aJqqbTzeqbv4bwAWuGNs-Oy-KPosH4HcjdUpEKWJu/s1600/details+collage+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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For the main party banner, a script 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' was cut from sage green paper and placed on ivory clouds while tiny gold stars dangled below.<br />
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Instead of large centerpieces, small mason jar floral arrangements (my current favorite white hydrangea and greenery) were placed in the center of a decorative table runner. The table runners were perhaps the item I struggled with the most. I just could not picture any ideas that were within my limited budget. After an aimless trip to the fabric store, I purchased several yards of inexpensive ivory and sage green tulle and brought it home with no real plan. With a little trial and error, I decided to cut the tulle into long strips, bundle it loosely together on the tables, and tie the ends with the green ribbon. Fine, but missing something. <span style="text-align: center;">I didn't fall in love with the table runners until I started pinning glittery stars along the tulle with tiny clothespins and green bows. The stars took the runner from 'fine' to 'adorable'. Against the </span>ivory table covers<span style="text-align: center;">, they looked perfectly light and dreamy.</span><br />
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With a subtle color palette and decorations, I didn't want anything too contrasting for the table settings. I found the perfect shade of sage green plastic plates to mix with the ivory utensils. To add a little sparkle, I wrapped the ivory napkins and utensils with metallic <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWashiShop/search?search_query=gold&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&page=1">gold washi tape</a> in star and chevron patterns.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTLWRk-e1yxy6YcZm-CTJFecGmIy0_nVSrlcsTfGJ8MeE4X6jdYj8B9JwKioGIlYNbvu-y-wRb7utE-bmTgJ0tKYkB0fW9oROeAKQyDY8rKXx6ig9ilGAhIaJizV5yU9yjlKWlI-yDf1T/s1600/utensil+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTLWRk-e1yxy6YcZm-CTJFecGmIy0_nVSrlcsTfGJ8MeE4X6jdYj8B9JwKioGIlYNbvu-y-wRb7utE-bmTgJ0tKYkB0fW9oROeAKQyDY8rKXx6ig9ilGAhIaJizV5yU9yjlKWlI-yDf1T/s1600/utensil+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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All the partypail.com supplies were fabulous and high quality, but what perhaps impressed me the most were the cups. Random, I realize, but hear me out. I think I have grown used to plastic party cups being those cheap, thin, I am going to break this if I look at it the wrong way kind of cup. A necessary evil for parties over 20 people where glass is just impractical and a pain to clean up. However, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BEH8R44/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BEH8R44&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=GT4Z4O6VUWKNXMUK" rel="nofollow">Premium Plastic Cups</a> I received from partypail.com were just the opposite and yet still perfectly affordable. Several people even commented on them, saying how nice they were and that they didn't want to throw them away. (Which you don't have to as you can wash and reuse them at least a second time!) Seriously, I'm hooked and just ordered a second batch for my next party. {Note - partypail no longer has a website so I have updated the link for the same cups from amazon.}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUrXtVf8ua9wEk3cpj38tkw8DDiSTJGG6l5GwQJDt6VFotC9xDSi1Qly3g7AY9ssoFNVEdyldaFjpg01G00JH2CFEeSiAu77QpD5v0owFUXJnNv67_fxtChqSalQ8UoJqyiPt7Q7qVGgn/s1600/place+setting+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUrXtVf8ua9wEk3cpj38tkw8DDiSTJGG6l5GwQJDt6VFotC9xDSi1Qly3g7AY9ssoFNVEdyldaFjpg01G00JH2CFEeSiAu77QpD5v0owFUXJnNv67_fxtChqSalQ8UoJqyiPt7Q7qVGgn/s1600/place+setting+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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So what did we put on those plates? The answer is lots of yummy things which I did not plan or make. Hooray for having co-hostesses for showers! If you have read any of my blog, however, you have likely realized it is almost impossible for me to throw a party without baking a little bit. Or a lot. Usually a lot. These showers were no different and I whipped up my favorite sugar cookies and tried out a fantastic new recipe for the cake. As with the party decorations, I embellished the cookies with an abundance of stars and tried to keep everything light and delicate with only three icing colors (white, light green, and yellow).<br />
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As I mentioned, the cake was a bit of an experiment. Actually the entire thing was an experiment, which made me more than a little nervous. My first go-to cake recipe happens to be a Mexican Chocolate Cake that is wonderfully moist, but very very dark in color. While still a favorite, I thought I should attempt a white cake to better complement this particular party. I decided upon a <a href="http://www.rockrecipes.com/white-velvet-cake/">White Velvet Cake</a> recipe, filled with Raspberry Preserves, and iced with <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/the-best-homemade-cream-cheese-buttercream-frosting/#_a5y_p=590723">Cream Cheese Frosting</a>. It wouldn't be a problem that I had never tried the recipes, filled a cake with jam, or piped rosettes in cream cheese frosting before, right? With a big sigh of relief and a few online tutorials, it all came together almost too easily. Phew! After tasting the finished product and receiving several requests for the recipe, I think I have found the white complement to my go-to chocolate cake.<br />
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Perhaps the most fortuitous detail in my cake experiment turned out to be the decorating style. Typically, I use fondant to decorate my cakes, but I was intrigued by a piped rosette cake on pinterest and decided to give it a try. The style reminded me of clouds and seemed all too perfect for the party. After icing the cake with a crumb coat, I started making simple rosettes with a large <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002PNZKA0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002PNZKA0&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=PTWT2GR6OIJ2X2U3">1M Star Tip</a> around the bottom of the cake. After the first ring was complete, I moved up a row and then worked into the center of the cake covering as much area as possible. Any leftover holes between rosettes were filled with small icing stars with the same tip. It was the easiest cake I have ever decorated. Ever. It took all of 10 minutes. There are a ton of tutorials online if you want to use this technique. Just be sure to refrigerate the cake so that the rosettes don't get droopy.<br />
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The star topper was fashioned out of two bamboo skewers (cut to the right height), green ribbon, gold glittery stars and small bits of hot glue. For the second shower, I actually had to make two full cakes and I decided to use my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/free-template-baby-shower-cake-topper.html">gold wire 'baby' cake topper</a> on the second cake. You can see it hiding on the right in the picture below. Both toppers are easily DIY-able and inexpensive.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP9_u8xdsctKPzjS0e1rrxiRmceyb9AHHQ_VKL_Azh5AACLaEWA-1-PXq_HiPQqImZ3CSU1TGpM_aEJfOP0V0xracILjf6Xu54KGHnN-eo8bySW0qrMGg6_gJsDGqyj4-HLzalsKY3Yij/s1600/table+setting+moms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP9_u8xdsctKPzjS0e1rrxiRmceyb9AHHQ_VKL_Azh5AACLaEWA-1-PXq_HiPQqImZ3CSU1TGpM_aEJfOP0V0xracILjf6Xu54KGHnN-eo8bySW0qrMGg6_gJsDGqyj4-HLzalsKY3Yij/s1600/table+setting+moms.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
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A few cupcakes, sparkling cider, and fruit infused water rounded out the dessert table offerings.<br />
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Not to be left out, the party favors also received their share of sparkly stars. Inspired by the favors from my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-safari-baby-shower.html">Safari baby shower</a> last year, I used the same glassine bags and added hand calligraphed thank you tags.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlAi9QPFzsEP81WHdd3-LcGMJH4wOa2rcgoJizXc73H7PVatWr2LchGFPwZP_jxJOnjFIr2GKwKt4sKEKq8zY4lcNf-8rqoLVmxSLFiXMeYy_0dVhKUSyx76M0QUkzN6tXyb-mxFT8gEA/s1600/favors+on+tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlAi9QPFzsEP81WHdd3-LcGMJH4wOa2rcgoJizXc73H7PVatWr2LchGFPwZP_jxJOnjFIr2GKwKt4sKEKq8zY4lcNf-8rqoLVmxSLFiXMeYy_0dVhKUSyx76M0QUkzN6tXyb-mxFT8gEA/s1600/favors+on+tray.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Glittery stars and tiny clothespins sealed the favor bags and tied in beautifully with the table runner details. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurbo4yWBvyyywvSNJf2rPE359FhQDL4l285LW9T-T6IIC_S88chY65TopImu-aMzQNu5eyzphAnfDyenCea7xu_I_kqo6wy6gevzxGvo5hEHOUD3OtLnXz3hNAKu5OF39AyuDmk2a89_R/s1600/tags+in+bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurbo4yWBvyyywvSNJf2rPE359FhQDL4l285LW9T-T6IIC_S88chY65TopImu-aMzQNu5eyzphAnfDyenCea7xu_I_kqo6wy6gevzxGvo5hEHOUD3OtLnXz3hNAKu5OF39AyuDmk2a89_R/s1600/tags+in+bowl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Though the packaging was kept identical between the two showers, the party favors themselves were a point of divergence. For the first shower, I made <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/homemade-marshmallows-recipe.html">homemade marshmallows</a> and cut them into tiny stars with a miniature cookie cutter. Another first for me, but a fun experiment! Packaging them up with hot cocoa mix gave the guests a sweet treat to enjoy at home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_vYXYm_-fRCUX8KwiOSEcIxb1IiBfxqklrtF-sHX9zq4RDJjo2nkcdxKnwJcFLgnB64EgPbIy1EsZ9APEBq4wNc84KWbRhKtMr9LURwspU0T4mFI9N6IcWra553_tJxaBfxDNV_jbe0b/s1600/favor+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_vYXYm_-fRCUX8KwiOSEcIxb1IiBfxqklrtF-sHX9zq4RDJjo2nkcdxKnwJcFLgnB64EgPbIy1EsZ9APEBq4wNc84KWbRhKtMr9LURwspU0T4mFI9N6IcWra553_tJxaBfxDNV_jbe0b/s1600/favor+collage+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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For the second shower, guests received two favors. I filled the glassine bags with a classic Texas favorite of mine, cinnamon sugar pecans. This treat holds a special place in my heart as I started making it during college back home, not to mention that the recipe quite possibly won the heart of my father-in-law when I started dating my husband years ago. Apparently, cinnamon is a slight obsession in their family. As a second favor, my mother-in-law had the adorable idea to gift <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CFODR/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000CFODR&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=SQLQSAMJXSD4L7U4">star cookie cutters</a>. She even tied them on ribbon and hung them on a small Christmas tree. Adorable and especially appropriate for a baby shower during the holidays.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelxemjrV5Dp5ds1DjDS9Zkrdoo0M8k4oDGzHrS3Pynn6_l8HgWNSSQpWCBgDOsXLGTDRqt8gYvDSdriteWegW3zmb5vaV0CVcxJmGDZVZ-ykanVlmNNUOBTjC8hg9P7x6WoTALGjcuW2z/s1600/favor+collage+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelxemjrV5Dp5ds1DjDS9Zkrdoo0M8k4oDGzHrS3Pynn6_l8HgWNSSQpWCBgDOsXLGTDRqt8gYvDSdriteWegW3zmb5vaV0CVcxJmGDZVZ-ykanVlmNNUOBTjC8hg9P7x6WoTALGjcuW2z/s1600/favor+collage+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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You may have noticed that I have yet to mention anything about shower games here. That is because we didn't do any! I've been on a mission lately to replace often-awkward party games with a group project or activity. I originally experimented with this at my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/baby-its-cold-outside-winter-baby-shower.html">Baby, It's Cold Outside</a> shower where we decorated sugar cookies. For these showers I decided to have the guests create a nursery mobile to gift to the mom-to-be. I first tried this idea out at my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-safari-baby-shower.html">Safari Baby Shower</a> and was thrilled with the outcome. It takes coordination in advance with the guest of honor and a bit of pre-party preparation, but the end results have all been adorable. Check<a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/07/diy-felt-nursery-mobile-baby-shower.html"> this post</a> out for details on how to construct similar mobiles in a group setting. You can also download free patterns for the cloud, star, and elephant mobile piece<span style="background-color: white;">s <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqQkprajdNSW96VTg/view?usp=sharing">here</a> for y</span>our personal use. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ITsBxACAks9DrsmRfy2jCfbzjZZ1YvAVY3PCfABCpxyZkG-F2aJyxhPZxP9_PJ6LBYyYQnI5jD2qa4Hal0n2tLaVqX7aEe8__oaYjCjcW4daRsoCmipeRyRpFinDxItpwd9AAodUUBh0/s1600/mobile+collage+teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ITsBxACAks9DrsmRfy2jCfbzjZZ1YvAVY3PCfABCpxyZkG-F2aJyxhPZxP9_PJ6LBYyYQnI5jD2qa4Hal0n2tLaVqX7aEe8__oaYjCjcW4daRsoCmipeRyRpFinDxItpwd9AAodUUBh0/s1600/mobile+collage+teaser.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was a joy to watch the ladies at both showers celebrate together and express their love in anticipation of the new arrivals. Both mommas have since welcomed sweet little baby girls into the world, one of whom is my very precious niece!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy13GCvmv7Yl_-XuXheKrWOW4IoJFJRmZdiX4xhVM20JnDxvpyDpH726WCBTNZfPIaIMXxlsmJtOPnNfmggQ1qLozxfZscz1W95bpxHf6CDczXXIdtQgYp8n_f_iLTQU3cIYB7IkcKfCJ_/s1600/table+runner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy13GCvmv7Yl_-XuXheKrWOW4IoJFJRmZdiX4xhVM20JnDxvpyDpH726WCBTNZfPIaIMXxlsmJtOPnNfmggQ1qLozxfZscz1W95bpxHf6CDczXXIdtQgYp8n_f_iLTQU3cIYB7IkcKfCJ_/s1600/table+runner.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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Party Supply Resource List<br />
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Glittery Gold Paper, Gold Metallic Paper, Ivory Cardstock, Green Ribbon, Clothespins - Michaels<br />
Calligraphy Pen and Inks - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/79641168/calligraphy-starter-kit?ref=shop_home_feat_4">Linea Carta</a> and <a href="http://www.makerylosaltos.com/">The Makery Los Altos</a><br />
Ivory Envelopes - <a href="http://www.papersource.com/?cm_mmc=google-_-Site_Brand-_-Brand-_-%5bpaper_source%5d&gclid=CJyM2oWz08MCFQiDfgodEq4Aig">Paper Source</a><br />
Tulle - JoAnns Fabrics<br />
Washi Tape - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWashiShop">The Washi Shop</a><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/82740894/100-glassine-bags-55-x-75-inches-candy?ref=shop_home_feat_4">Glassine Bags</a> - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/wrapworks">Wrap Works</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CFODR/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000CFODR&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=SQLQSAMJXSD4L7U4">Star Cookie Cutters</a> - Amazon<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BEH8R44/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BEH8R44&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=GT4Z4O6VUWKNXMUK" rel="nofollow">Premium Plastic Cups</a>, Plates, Forks, Napkins, Table Covers - partypail.com<br />
Mobile Felt, Embroidery Thread, Felt Balls, Embroidery Hoops, Needles - <a href="http://www.makerylosaltos.com/">The Makery Los Altos</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftyWoolFelt">Etsy</a>, Michaels, JoAnns<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">{All party supplies were purchased by me with the exception of the plates, forks, napkins, cups, and table covers which were provided by partypail.com. This is not a sponsored post and all the opinions are my own.}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-80139851177353815682015-01-16T22:09:00.001-08:002016-02-23T21:15:32.062-08:00A Milk and Cookies Engagement Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1UMjHW_-a2YMrD8RHchGfWXz1x-XytQQnsbWW8lc_5lXlrIVEEojwAM6NqvIp7DP_iR1ZQykjulGRWaUxMXAkUk2AOdm7uGkkmVGRih7ZGhY6mamIZ6ogDYXnN2QfU_M_QdXDlVSClSc/s1600/engagement+collage+title+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1UMjHW_-a2YMrD8RHchGfWXz1x-XytQQnsbWW8lc_5lXlrIVEEojwAM6NqvIp7DP_iR1ZQykjulGRWaUxMXAkUk2AOdm7uGkkmVGRih7ZGhY6mamIZ6ogDYXnN2QfU_M_QdXDlVSClSc/s1600/engagement+collage+title+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was thrilled when my brother-in-law first told us he was purchasing a ring! It isn't every day you add a sister-in-law to the mix, especially one that you really like! I know I take it for granted that I currently have three sisters-in-law and am blessed to call them all friends. Now I look forward to adding one more awesome lady to the family. Kyle, thanks for picking a good one! We had high expectations and you delivered. True to my love of planning parties, I decided that I wanted to throw the happy couple an engagement party. With the abundance of celebrations I threw last year - seriously, people, stop having babies - I figured I needed to go super low-key for the engagement party. I <i>almost</i> succeeded in that, but my excitement got the better of me and I added a little DIY fun to make it a little more personal and special. </div>
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The idea for this party started with the food, oddly enough. I adored the idea of throwing a 'cookies & milk' party. Who doesn't love a really great cookie and a cold glass of milk? Simple, fun, and meant to encourage a playful and relaxed vibe. No one could take themselves too seriously with a milk mustache or licking chocolate off their fingers. (Kind of like that time I ate string cheese in front of billionaires...but that is a different story.) </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">The second inspiration for the party design was the engagement gift I had planned for the happy couple. It has become somewhat of a tradition that I give every couple in our family </span><a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/09/diy-burlap-monogram-art.html" style="text-align: center;">burlap monogram art</a><span style="text-align: center;"> commemorating the year of their marriage. A simple handmade gift that also happens to work perfectly as a party decoration. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpRrnKb0XqgUAk68fQT0svPcDTA31XAqpMlD5-GGIkfUb3fJ81ptyV-WfZTzk3j2A3e4pT248CUtcOxHBWgqIgCI9JLVYqTyquVz1Qzb1l5k9ZKCNSMzTy6dHbsDXw5GKSErkjKyD-BlB/s1600/frame+on+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpRrnKb0XqgUAk68fQT0svPcDTA31XAqpMlD5-GGIkfUb3fJ81ptyV-WfZTzk3j2A3e4pT248CUtcOxHBWgqIgCI9JLVYqTyquVz1Qzb1l5k9ZKCNSMzTy6dHbsDXw5GKSErkjKyD-BlB/s1600/frame+on+table.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The other decorations grew from there. I added some rustic elements (natural wood, burlap), simple white flowers, patterned straws in mason jar sippers, a hand-drawn 'calligraphy' table runner, and topped it off with a few chalkboard details. I can't quite put my finger on a name for the style of this party. A throw-back to elementary school days, yet all grown up. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy7FSji2zjtW3UeKYjuD-5mpEfW61zxJtJp-q6MP8jiKAEv1-itj9KDwDW7n1NoU7URjX23-lp34lM8XjHDwA_teFjr4XjT3F2yhKAhQ5ndroHGnOqNGrksenv_fim6p7Jy4_nVCX2StN/s1600/cookie+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy7FSji2zjtW3UeKYjuD-5mpEfW61zxJtJp-q6MP8jiKAEv1-itj9KDwDW7n1NoU7URjX23-lp34lM8XjHDwA_teFjr4XjT3F2yhKAhQ5ndroHGnOqNGrksenv_fim6p7Jy4_nVCX2StN/s1600/cookie+table.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had six types of <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/three-ingredients-that-changed-my.html">cookies</a> in all: <a href="http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/09/nutella-stuffed-brown-butter-sea-salt-chocolate-chip-cookies-my-favorite-cookie-ever/">browned butter chocolate chip</a> (w/ and w/out nutella), <a href="http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/10/brown-butter-snickerdoodle-cookies/">browned butter snickerdoodles</a> (w/ and w/out <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/brown-butter-salted-caramel-snickerdoodles/#_a5y_p=1326722">caramel</a>), <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/chocolate-crinkles/941e22b3-9a48-4fb1-bdb0-27479e76d484?nicam4=SocialMedia&nichn4=Pinterest&niseg4=BettyCrocker&nicreatID4=Post&crlt.pid=camp.Lvo3WTbq4tdU">chocolate crinkle</a>, and peanut butter. To add variety to the cookie display I pulled out my cake stands, cookie stands, pie plates, and even a wood slice to use as serving dishes. My husband was a great sport and rigged up a way to hang my kitchen menu chalkboard from a tree to provide the 'Cookie Bar' sign.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2VIqEYyrdVPIYjR3KQJaLOv2Mvr4T76KMGEVC11F5vM6qdmzE_ZrekuAuFvnD3KvDeRdbdq0FZfHzZOZTYvsEPD-fc2QbsSQhDySTUtvhyphenhyphenzcqH_RZw56Bj8Qf4uObZOAvh4SaVg0L0Nl/s1600/chalkboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2VIqEYyrdVPIYjR3KQJaLOv2Mvr4T76KMGEVC11F5vM6qdmzE_ZrekuAuFvnD3KvDeRdbdq0FZfHzZOZTYvsEPD-fc2QbsSQhDySTUtvhyphenhyphenzcqH_RZw56Bj8Qf4uObZOAvh4SaVg0L0Nl/s1600/chalkboard.jpg" width="640" /><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
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The milk table turned out just as cute. White milk, chocolate milk, glass-bottled Coke (the yummy Mexican kind), and water rounded out the beverage options.<br />
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I was a little hesitant at first to put milk in large drink dispensers outside. Even with the table in the shade I wanted a little extra 'insurance' against the milk going warm and gross. The solution was to put reusable <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D3MGYR0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00D3MGYR0&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=APYI6UY56KARVKWX">Plastic Ice Cubes</a> into each drink dispenser. It kept the milk perfectly cool the entire length of the party and didn't dilute the drink like normal ice cubes. </div>
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<i>{A quick digression on drink dispensers here: Drink dispensers seem to be ever so popular right now and I, for one, love them. However, there are good ones and there are bad ones. The <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/glass-drink-dispenser/?pkey=e%7Cdrink%2Bdispenser%7C13%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C48%7C%7C3&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules">dispenser</a> holding the white milk is a fantastic one. The <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/savannah+embossed+drink+dispenser.do?&refType=&from=Search">dispenser</a> holding the chocolate milk is the 'wanna be' dispenser and it was not awesome. I actually disliked it so much I returned it to the store the next day. There are two main things I look for in a dispenser - quality of the spigot and airflow during dispensing. For example, my nice dispenser (from <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/glass-drink-dispenser/?pkey=e%7Cdrink%2Bdispenser%7C13%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C48%7C%7C3&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules">Pottery Barn</a>) has a metal spigot whereas the cheap dispenser (from <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/savannah+embossed+drink+dispenser.do?&refType=&from=Search">World Market</a>) has a plastic one that almost feels like it would snap off from normal use. The air flow is also important because it impacts how well the liquid flows out of the dispenser; this is how you can tell if the dispenser is well designed. The Pottery Barn dispenser has a teeny tiny hole in the lid (barely visible) that allows enough air to enter the dispenser so that you can keep the metal lid on and looking pretty during the party. To use the World Market dispenser you have to unlatch and open the lid slightly to get any flow. I found this really frustrating so I packed that sucker up and took it back. They were great about taking the return so no hard feelings with the store. And for Christmas one of my awesome sisters-in-law (and I guess my brother, too) got me the smaller version of my Pottery Barn dispenser (yay!).}</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUeJ8IIgh1c6pVb8mYIaZkP6a6SN5aqn5a2P-l831vq3W5UYR9l0EabitJefYIhBb7uRh05zEAcPJZXp_SVYDrXTc6hjWqXr7lbRCuScGwF8FCxRV_FMjXzFLdrPGeobZmzIaPj9Kn2zYW/s1600/milk+dispenser+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUeJ8IIgh1c6pVb8mYIaZkP6a6SN5aqn5a2P-l831vq3W5UYR9l0EabitJefYIhBb7uRh05zEAcPJZXp_SVYDrXTc6hjWqXr7lbRCuScGwF8FCxRV_FMjXzFLdrPGeobZmzIaPj9Kn2zYW/s1600/milk+dispenser+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ok, now back to the party...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HXKLfOoJEboREXBGcvdwSm4-dg1LKcr9ITcQSEpTseeTnPJbP_8CO34_faH-YmIhpaine1mCT-3FuOk6tlvCfR6AVqY0Ws2Aw2wVnoGOgc0w0cE5mJlLs6SXIACV8tfgOHdaq89FfoKf/s1600/empty+cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HXKLfOoJEboREXBGcvdwSm4-dg1LKcr9ITcQSEpTseeTnPJbP_8CO34_faH-YmIhpaine1mCT-3FuOk6tlvCfR6AVqY0Ws2Aw2wVnoGOgc0w0cE5mJlLs6SXIACV8tfgOHdaq89FfoKf/s1600/empty+cups.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For cups, I debuted the Mason Jar Sippers purchased with a 'thank you' gift card from planning the <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-safari-baby-shower.html">safari themed</a> baby shower last year. I bought these as a set, but you can also turn regular mason jars into drinks with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E79Y8U8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00E79Y8U8&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=Q5W7SRRDKVVCKK2Y">mason jar daisy straw lids</a>.<br />
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The Cokes kept cool in a galvanized metal drink tub I purchased years ago for my wedding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKJYX4Ao6hPK-D9YCowSkknqkSQQuFytYAnr7LgX0OzG316W_EN68wrYlnXSjZVazm4PrH9VPXIo1ThNcW6xTkoFhyhsXCLYSEXkBulF9qpVEgJsQiwgVjtmIJ40dJmWEoUrAhTm-t7Qm/s1600/coke+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKJYX4Ao6hPK-D9YCowSkknqkSQQuFytYAnr7LgX0OzG316W_EN68wrYlnXSjZVazm4PrH9VPXIo1ThNcW6xTkoFhyhsXCLYSEXkBulF9qpVEgJsQiwgVjtmIJ40dJmWEoUrAhTm-t7Qm/s1600/coke+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In addition to the large 'Cookie Bar' chalkboard, we had a few other chalkboard touches. The banners were actually 'faux' chalkboard, which is just a fancy way to say that I cut black cardstock paper into pennants and then wrote on them using my son's white sidewalk chalk. You have to be careful not to smudge it before the party, but it works great! The cookie labels were also created using black paper and a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OJMS7LO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00OJMS7LO&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=WOV52ZWD6CKXDCE7">chalk marker</a>. My drink dispenser tags were a gift made by my husband (he's a keeper!) and are pretty much a staple at all my parties. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyVtZ-dwrz6ice-wG4eOaHOQhsKLkYzxUgei-78at_7KestNuCWIIufgK-sr3-LeA7ShYPdeihiieTDyY_3B1-e_Tu7xm7fVsST36EpyfD1Owv5W6Iw1nnQp_kFaWrsDA95u2DC1Dqip3/s1600/chalkboard+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyVtZ-dwrz6ice-wG4eOaHOQhsKLkYzxUgei-78at_7KestNuCWIIufgK-sr3-LeA7ShYPdeihiieTDyY_3B1-e_Tu7xm7fVsST36EpyfD1Owv5W6Iw1nnQp_kFaWrsDA95u2DC1Dqip3/s1600/chalkboard+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The most time-consuming DIY party decoration ended up being the table runner. People seemed quite surprised I had made it, which I generally take as a compliment. Unless it is followed by the phrase 'oh how interesting'. Interesting is always a bad sign when it comes to DIY. Armed with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RN3EOE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000RN3EOE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NJ3ZDPRUPNFFFLTF">kraft postal wrapping paper</a>, a sharpie, and a plastic trash bag, I hand wrote 'love' across the entire length of the runner, probably while watching Project Runway. After the first pass, I went back and thickened up the down strokes of the letters to give the impression that it was calligraphy. The plastic bag was placed under the kraft paper to prevent bleeding onto my carpet. I made a similar kraft paper table runner for a <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/baby-its-cold-outside-winter-baby-shower.html">winter baby shower</a> a while back. {<i>A little money saving tip - don't buy kraft wrapping paper in the wrapping paper section, buy it in the postal supply section. For example, this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RN3EOE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000RN3EOE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NJ3ZDPRUPNFFFLTF">kraft postal wrapping paper</a> is less than 6 dollars for 30 feet. I use it for gift wrap mostly, but it made a gorgeous table runner. }</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qKN1QLT0NydjtwwySFcx0jCQ_JeT9RQG7rZ_s8uy8goQXKve6OvLuWOGCZv0cC59dobaDS0CnMFcLuH8OHaSrL6WV8M51-PMYjAFqUSvPQCD9CgM9DWtjpdMf0CqHJ6bb7lp9633kGex/s1600/table+runner+in+progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qKN1QLT0NydjtwwySFcx0jCQ_JeT9RQG7rZ_s8uy8goQXKve6OvLuWOGCZv0cC59dobaDS0CnMFcLuH8OHaSrL6WV8M51-PMYjAFqUSvPQCD9CgM9DWtjpdMf0CqHJ6bb7lp9633kGex/s1600/table+runner+in+progress.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I couldn't bear to get rid of this paper after the party so it is currently sitting in my garage waiting to be used as gift wrap. See what a great background the runner provides for the setup! And a perfect reminder of what the party is all about...cookies, I mean, love!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-mfZobxrIExaF6Y65jlftjhhkUmObZKpwaNaEdb6SdIJIFzCWioqtEDrX3FbELZkn3By6mJAHUhP3kVlg3kgmTcadz7C2l3tLwM7-T46KLpvAh2UOxyMGjx15yxybKsxL5nNN4TtXV40/s1600/plates+and+straws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-mfZobxrIExaF6Y65jlftjhhkUmObZKpwaNaEdb6SdIJIFzCWioqtEDrX3FbELZkn3By6mJAHUhP3kVlg3kgmTcadz7C2l3tLwM7-T46KLpvAh2UOxyMGjx15yxybKsxL5nNN4TtXV40/s1600/plates+and+straws.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And now for my favorite part of the party - the dessert plates! I generally get a little too excited about party supplies, so when partypail.com offered to let me try some of their products (no strings attached) I may or may not have flipped out (in a good way). You know that giddy feeling when you have a party idea in your head and then you find something that fits the picture in your head perfectly? Hmm, just me? Well, it was love at first sight with these chalkboard <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HO4VWQG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00HO4VWQG&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=52VTEJC7G4R2AMSH" rel="nofollow">Mr and Mrs Plates</a> from partypail. Like I said, I get a wee bit excited about party supplies (and office supplies...maybe supplies in general?) It turns out it is a little difficult to decorate a party in all black and white and have it look festive. The touch of color on the plates and the black and white striped straws helped keep it playful instead of boring. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzqTN8t8k1Hb5BCTq2ZzUSIXgY0UVKKTMk0NxGdfMgfkpUYsPDR-5ritFU-2SE08W0zIH2pNrLlvHsqGwm-477tfhkoZMP2A-DOOYGaXBmFU7NDKZeUuhFIOPvm_BS8W4qBgVd1CFe2Kq/s1600/cookie+and+milk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzqTN8t8k1Hb5BCTq2ZzUSIXgY0UVKKTMk0NxGdfMgfkpUYsPDR-5ritFU-2SE08W0zIH2pNrLlvHsqGwm-477tfhkoZMP2A-DOOYGaXBmFU7NDKZeUuhFIOPvm_BS8W4qBgVd1CFe2Kq/s1600/cookie+and+milk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mmmmm...now I want a cookie.<br />
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And what kind of party would it be without flowers? I have been mildly obsessed with white hydrangea this year. This bunch I bought at Trader Joe's lasted for two weeks! One large arrangement was the sole decoration on my <i>(we'll call it rustic)</i> picnic table. And a few smaller bunches were placed in mason jars on the Cookie Bar for an understated fancy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXRBtiSB4qVz58yCAUDMg6HBCM14OYLWs0gqoz022z4rnzeOXmAeVmSAZA-xrjo6cpoT1XcezLSF7TLRbMdrcc9sEyyWCypcu602_vb5S46uEUR48vzQZQF3KJOZMvIx86lDq3BLwTnO7/s1600/more+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXRBtiSB4qVz58yCAUDMg6HBCM14OYLWs0gqoz022z4rnzeOXmAeVmSAZA-xrjo6cpoT1XcezLSF7TLRbMdrcc9sEyyWCypcu602_vb5S46uEUR48vzQZQF3KJOZMvIx86lDq3BLwTnO7/s1600/more+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Despite my intense love of cookies, I did encourage the party guests to take a few home for the road. Kraft paper bags and black heart stickers (both from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kraftandcolor?ref=l2-shopheader-name">kraft&color</a> on etsy) served as favor bags. A <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OJMS7LO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00OJMS7LO&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=WOV52ZWD6CKXDCE7">chalk marker</a> was used to add a 'K+N' or 'love' to the stickers. You can also find the DIY instructions <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/my-favorite-diy-christmas-decorations.html">here</a> for the tree slice chalkboard. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2JM4-lZ38Ab51_aCZyNv2e34TugBFqFAMAgedeY0tPAtEWohX_maCCIXES9zkWJvetr0hAoMZh1U3ZBAWghGYC321GPT5LnNiC3Y8jJsEjMnguqLdrbFZNqf9IrB-A-63ULk4svXaMU3/s1600/favor+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2JM4-lZ38Ab51_aCZyNv2e34TugBFqFAMAgedeY0tPAtEWohX_maCCIXES9zkWJvetr0hAoMZh1U3ZBAWghGYC321GPT5LnNiC3Y8jJsEjMnguqLdrbFZNqf9IrB-A-63ULk4svXaMU3/s1600/favor+bags.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In an attempt to distract from the state of my drought-ridden California yard, I put a few clusters of balloons around the setting. Little did I know that the balloons would also serve as entertainment for the toddlers. Bonus! </div>
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As always, what really makes a party successful is the people. There were no games, no activities, just mingling and eating cookies. A perfect example of what I have come to love most about throwing parties - providing a fun setting to celebrate life and enjoy each other's company. Of the approximately 50 guests, we had teeny babies, college students, grandparents, and everything in between. It was a beautiful picture of what it is like to live in a community in the true sense of the word, and gives me great encouragement that the newlyweds will be supported by people in all life stages. </div>
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Party Supply Sources: </div>
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plates and straws >> partypail.com {Note - partypail no longer has a website so links are updated to amazon}</div>
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favor bags and stickers >> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kraftandcolor?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Kraft&Color</a> on <a href="http://etsy.com/">etsy.com</a></div>
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table runner >> <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RN3EOE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000RN3EOE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=NJ3ZDPRUPNFFFLTF">kraft postal wrapping paper</a></i> and sharpie on amazon</div>
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galvanized tub >> World Market</div>
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the good drink dispenser >> Pottery Barn</div>
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cake plates, pie plate, and tiered server >> Crate & Barrel, Williams Sonoma, and Sur la Table</div>
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mason jars >> OSH</div>
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balloons and plastic white table cloth >> local party store</div>
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wood slices for cookie tray and <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/my-favorite-diy-christmas-decorations.html">DIY chalkboard</a> >> Michaels</div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E79Y8U8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00E79Y8U8&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=Q5W7SRRDKVVCKK2Y">mason jar daisy straw lids</a> >> amazon<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D3MGYR0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00D3MGYR0&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=APYI6UY56KARVKWX">Plastic Ice Cubes</a> >> amazon<br />
water pitcher >> Crate & Barrel<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">{All of the party supplies used in this party were purchased by me with the exception of the partypail plates and straws. This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.}</span></i> Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-77851733865669734792014-11-28T16:44:00.000-08:002014-11-28T16:44:25.450-08:00A Tool Themed Second Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielcv-4goCldT85KEJ4NjNCJwhfECezdxLv9SpWifCltQ1LA14_Ia0INA7tNwj1X_u1SDmEbF14UcJsRvLtack3zQtaLQwAw-025s3a4X2OZTu1mcdQc2Z9s6rIPojONX3WLtOm2MvVeTx/s1600/Title+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielcv-4goCldT85KEJ4NjNCJwhfECezdxLv9SpWifCltQ1LA14_Ia0INA7tNwj1X_u1SDmEbF14UcJsRvLtack3zQtaLQwAw-025s3a4X2OZTu1mcdQc2Z9s6rIPojONX3WLtOm2MvVeTx/s1600/Title+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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My nephew is basically a child prodigy when it comes to tools. And not the 'Oh! How cute! He is holding a hammer the right way' type. It is more the 'Quick! He is disassembling the baby gate' type. With two mechanical engineers for parents no one is completely surprised. </div>
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Despite living a 4 hour plane flight away, it has worked out that I could be there for all of his birthdays (all 2 of them). My sister-in-law figured out a long time ago that I get unusually excited about parties and was gracious enough to let me help with the planning and baking. Also, I could definitely get used to throwing parties with someone else's money. My nephew's first birthday was an adorable <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/02/finding-nemo-smash-cake-sugar-cookies.html">Nemo party</a> - check out the smash cake and sugar cookies <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/02/finding-nemo-smash-cake-sugar-cookies.html">here</a>. When his second birthday rolled around this summer, his party theme was obvious: Tools! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDru9GdOsGjMCEbj2fCfyD1lddyMzpZ2fda5eGR3LfdcwQWAZRebR2DiG_KlfTERqf74AjE0Dy59BESMk36R7D8VFDZPgzcZFE9us3ycZwR7t7NcHWOP9UnyfC3LKeZ7po9QSceTREl5J1/s1600/Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDru9GdOsGjMCEbj2fCfyD1lddyMzpZ2fda5eGR3LfdcwQWAZRebR2DiG_KlfTERqf74AjE0Dy59BESMk36R7D8VFDZPgzcZFE9us3ycZwR7t7NcHWOP9UnyfC3LKeZ7po9QSceTREl5J1/s1600/Cake.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hands down my favorite part about this party was the toolbox birthday cake and tool cookies. Oh or maybe the party favors. Hmmm. Well, we'll start with the cake. You have no idea how close this cake was to being a 'Pinterest fail'. I stretched my very modest skills with this one. Thankfully, with a few carefully placed cookies and a bit of styrofoam, I pulled it off. I considered it a success when people walked by without realizing it was the cake. In case you are wondering, the lid of the cake is fondant-covered styrofoam attached at an angle to the cake base with bamboo skewers. I'm sure there is a more 'professional' way to do that, but my MacGyver'd version worked great. The tools are my go-to sugar cookies decorated in a glaze icing. </div>
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In an effort to keep the party more 'tool' and less 'construction', we made the Happy Birthday banner a giant tool belt. A second tool garland decorated the food table. (Both garlands were cut with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAX7H78/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00NAX7H78&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=X4SAXYIL4QE5KHR6">Silhouette Cameo</a>.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2_9SzZIikwuHIT2mOKkDjgYFaZsZ3ZC7p_rm5Yov95ZIRlqsOOrAea5zsU2-hVUN9NZUZGD87fyL3gBrU3rLAs5C6_v_YdHCoXdGRkKjAA7eU9th0x5EhNFBSqqgJL9t2eHnNFNADjrdC/s1600/banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2_9SzZIikwuHIT2mOKkDjgYFaZsZ3ZC7p_rm5Yov95ZIRlqsOOrAea5zsU2-hVUN9NZUZGD87fyL3gBrU3rLAs5C6_v_YdHCoXdGRkKjAA7eU9th0x5EhNFBSqqgJL9t2eHnNFNADjrdC/s1600/banner.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnx5z6vaJDrh07uT_Ps4FQJz7X_lpOW0CTh2YDNq1IMSQ0f7pFWuCCKTaxaRzHvTCwfG_S9pJPhQAIcX5mStt8Mog8UwYfeOoG2uumMAtODQ9RdhuwF2RI5hgAemDpnGa3EVAqQrSE1pKa/s1600/utensil+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnx5z6vaJDrh07uT_Ps4FQJz7X_lpOW0CTh2YDNq1IMSQ0f7pFWuCCKTaxaRzHvTCwfG_S9pJPhQAIcX5mStt8Mog8UwYfeOoG2uumMAtODQ9RdhuwF2RI5hgAemDpnGa3EVAqQrSE1pKa/s1600/utensil+Collage.jpg" height="276" width="640" /></a></div>
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The balloons, plates, cups and forks were all kept in the red/black/yellow color scheme. We had a little fun with the food service and borrowed some of my nephew's toys. The utensils were wrapped in napkins, sealed with 'tape measure' washi tape, and set inside a toy toolbox. Toy dump trucks held the party favors and a few packaged sweets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkcfXGRdvbETX5fx0-0CJqfib9SyoGh1G7LSXgZS-lyVqzP6RGOf56Khze3BWbm3KW2IPhjKdZoFCk-4DgMtu5sb4npNnjB6H6KV5vHwIa_xGo22VfLh2BQcDnrnCFn02J8F1oMeLVUKv/s1600/island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkcfXGRdvbETX5fx0-0CJqfib9SyoGh1G7LSXgZS-lyVqzP6RGOf56Khze3BWbm3KW2IPhjKdZoFCk-4DgMtu5sb4npNnjB6H6KV5vHwIa_xGo22VfLh2BQcDnrnCFn02J8F1oMeLVUKv/s1600/island.jpg" height="488" width="640" /></a></div>
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The party favors were a big hit with the kiddos. We had a lot of fun putting together these little tool belt goodie bags. The <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/The-Home-Depot-Canvas-Work-Apron-HD324655/202311423">tool belts</a> themselves are less than a dollar each at Home Depot and perfect for little people. We found the plastic tools at Toys R Us and my brother added the tiny tape measures, paint brushes, and carpenter's pencils after a trip to Home Depot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglfTZC78Q-MaPYKuL4qnYM2D7a0h32sZLJiNnqh6r4s0suxSGA-TKq05lxYRjkdGnqOwgLOlzzgGtilwTpxnSb6ZvrKeEr98SJdlwahL2hiUaY6mLodejpyn-6NkdTnDfhOKEE8bc2VKiQ/s1600/favor+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglfTZC78Q-MaPYKuL4qnYM2D7a0h32sZLJiNnqh6r4s0suxSGA-TKq05lxYRjkdGnqOwgLOlzzgGtilwTpxnSb6ZvrKeEr98SJdlwahL2hiUaY6mLodejpyn-6NkdTnDfhOKEE8bc2VKiQ/s1600/favor+Collage.jpg" height="250" width="640" /></a></div>
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And finally, I'll leave you with what turned out to be an unintentional yet incredibly appropriate front door decoration. Speaking from experience, 2 year olds should always be approached with caution.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyg1p78lifgPXL8ZiRH5oysdE2wsRD-tlIE_QzIEyw76nkshdxtVTdGs6GMLglnV9GQfJ3vwXWWbsKIRndOtmKOKVszo_vE4VANh_NyTP8RP0AKodBj-4Ud31uEcUk1x8bSs-0qsb0q_zr/s1600/door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyg1p78lifgPXL8ZiRH5oysdE2wsRD-tlIE_QzIEyw76nkshdxtVTdGs6GMLglnV9GQfJ3vwXWWbsKIRndOtmKOKVszo_vE4VANh_NyTP8RP0AKodBj-4Ud31uEcUk1x8bSs-0qsb0q_zr/s1600/door.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-57960352030279321552014-10-30T14:37:00.001-07:002015-09-15T14:10:58.937-07:00Thanksgiving Burlap Banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyidYQbEVal3I-7-i0gq9WiA1BynkaQs2mYogI1a-lG9Vn0LrL0sVt1130M0n833lvf6oFKMpaqwXeqwaHHcItKLxMvoBwil8OP2wIHni-HrBLAedV0UVsYB2-RDE3-lJY7Lw0uOsDp0i/s1600/thanks+banner+title+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyidYQbEVal3I-7-i0gq9WiA1BynkaQs2mYogI1a-lG9Vn0LrL0sVt1130M0n833lvf6oFKMpaqwXeqwaHHcItKLxMvoBwil8OP2wIHni-HrBLAedV0UVsYB2-RDE3-lJY7Lw0uOsDp0i/s1600/thanks+banner+title+final.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I dislike Halloween. If my son weren't so darn cute in costumes I'd probably forget the holiday all together. I just can't get into it. I <i>much</i> prefer Thanksgiving. Counting our blessings, visiting family, watching football, eating ridiculous amounts of good food...that is a holiday I can really get behind. It should be no surprise, then, that when fall rolls around in my house I skip straight to the Thanksgiving decorations. </div>
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To be fair, by 'Thanksgiving decorations' I mean a fairly small collection of pumpkins (including my popular <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/10/teeny-tiny-pumpkin-diy-thanksgiving.html">pumpkin place card holders</a> I shared last year). Reminded of my apparent obsession with pumpkins again this year, I thought my decorations could use a bit more variety. So, with the burlap left over from <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/09/diy-burlap-monogram-art.html">this project</a>, I set out to diy a simple banner reminding me to give thanks. In the midst of what has turned out to be a fairly tough year for me, I am trying to cultivate a thankful heart instead of one too focused on the trials of late. The Lord has blessed me immensely in many ways and I am excited to be reminded of that every time I look at my banner. </div>
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Materials: </div>
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Burlap (amount needed depends on size of your banner flags and your saying)</div>
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Ribbon (make sure it is long enough for all the letters plus extra on each side for hanging)</div>
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Hot Glue Gun</div>
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Paint (I used Martha Stewart metallic paint in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007C7X8X0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007C7X8X0&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=2PNZHJGGXV2ZOHR2">Rust</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019KBWA2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0019KBWA2&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=EH7YTJLC7UOH6E6R">Fray Check</a></div>
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Paint Brush</div>
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Stencils (I cut custom stencils with my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007R83VKE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007R83VKE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=ZKPGZHUVTSBJEALP">Silhouette Cameo</a>, but any template or stencil would work) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdwojGo595Te9FHI8O0CkA39p-oXgo5G_WWn-KKKmHkW-dSmlB5Jj34NCPZayEDjWWCfakHBjWcr75-PsYV2TuuIzhBGlRc-eaonI8xAeCzML92XbqudNIEwbMm-jDFAdQJ4aiUxSe0x5/s1600/thanks+banner+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdwojGo595Te9FHI8O0CkA39p-oXgo5G_WWn-KKKmHkW-dSmlB5Jj34NCPZayEDjWWCfakHBjWcr75-PsYV2TuuIzhBGlRc-eaonI8xAeCzML92XbqudNIEwbMm-jDFAdQJ4aiUxSe0x5/s1600/thanks+banner+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Start by ironing the burlap. Then use a template or stencil for the banner flags to trace the outline onto the burlap as a cutting guide. Cut all the flags. Next prepare your letter stencils. I used my silhouette cameo to cut the letter stencils directly onto the banner flag templates, but separate letter stencils would also work. Tape the stencil over the cut burlap flag and dab the paint onto the burlap. If there are any middle pieces for the letter (like in the 'A' below), I usually try to stick them down with a small amount of tape before painting. Ignore the paint color in the stencil pictures - I started out with a lighter gold, but found that it was too light against the burlap so I switched instead to the Rust color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQa8TB6FTjWcVPKEBCmYGYNFVN8htx5X10XsAjNjALK0DXA0IdJIv3Zvrlk6W6XhkbMJPIXyELSmqQMbZ4L0-Ys59UUV2rPuGnfplLnJLDUsULfzsJDfau7Y1-El_qJz0GBHGp5mSqZUml/s1600/thanks+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQa8TB6FTjWcVPKEBCmYGYNFVN8htx5X10XsAjNjALK0DXA0IdJIv3Zvrlk6W6XhkbMJPIXyELSmqQMbZ4L0-Ys59UUV2rPuGnfplLnJLDUsULfzsJDfau7Y1-El_qJz0GBHGp5mSqZUml/s1600/thanks+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once all the letters are dry, it is time to attach it to the ribbon. Lay your ribbon down (right side down) as a guide. Place each letter (also right side down) onto the ribbon and adjust them to the final spacing. Then use a hot glue gun to adhere the burlap to the ribbon. Burlap frays quite a bit so I added a generous amount of Fray Check to the border of each flag. Once the hot glue and fray check are dry you are ready to hang your banner! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm-FBNck_brjLzv-TVPUEEZEth0yGyE5-jWcUNQKQt6V_cNwPaHYs-ofnUnO-F0j61H1RZQfn2GLzYWSpI2wyAjjOq6c3bEOolfGXFoBQIPOMMU5n6u2QjCBKo7tAckClUEEno6NS0p9pG/s1600/thanks+banner+last.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm-FBNck_brjLzv-TVPUEEZEth0yGyE5-jWcUNQKQt6V_cNwPaHYs-ofnUnO-F0j61H1RZQfn2GLzYWSpI2wyAjjOq6c3bEOolfGXFoBQIPOMMU5n6u2QjCBKo7tAckClUEEno6NS0p9pG/s1600/thanks+banner+last.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here it is as part of my mantel decorations. </div>
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<img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJF5Dbis_Xu7EqPaCkaTW1fvegBkFS07o8kRe1Cy9ED3MLX6_poIAyGeD0Yp7TlE1vbhUUm_MEwQccuWq9KPeVlb-0D7Pr4gmvwa92uKJq1UxDh8zj3n9-PeVODTxqUzWURKVRy0XiByj/s1600/thanks+banner+mantel.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped; therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him." Psalm 28:7<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJF5Dbis_Xu7EqPaCkaTW1fvegBkFS07o8kRe1Cy9ED3MLX6_poIAyGeD0Yp7TlE1vbhUUm_MEwQccuWq9KPeVlb-0D7Pr4gmvwa92uKJq1UxDh8zj3n9-PeVODTxqUzWURKVRy0XiByj/s1600/thanks+banner+mantel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-52567517264271439672014-07-20T14:29:00.000-07:002014-07-20T14:29:57.541-07:00DIY Butterfly Wing Kit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1N68FrN1s0BnMFC6stYyw73DLikeGKJRIXH5s7KLh7-KprmHDTc_FAo4eBYM8DWvL2RKKAy8-x1Tn-CjHC2IF7abSG6uubM-K_m33dZ4KNQHAaNOOF9Nf4AG0ZHrn7S-c2nntbWLERJm/s1600/wings+title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1N68FrN1s0BnMFC6stYyw73DLikeGKJRIXH5s7KLh7-KprmHDTc_FAo4eBYM8DWvL2RKKAy8-x1Tn-CjHC2IF7abSG6uubM-K_m33dZ4KNQHAaNOOF9Nf4AG0ZHrn7S-c2nntbWLERJm/s1600/wings+title.jpg" height="502" width="640" /></a></div>
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I normally consider myself a 'rule follower'. Just ask my husband and he'll give you countless examples of my inability to break a rule. Or don't ask him, rather, as I am sure that would end up in some embarrassing story. However, one of my favorite little people turned 3 a few weeks ago and I promptly ignored the 'no gifts, please' on the party invitation without a second thought. I'm such a rebel, I know. Well, if I am being completely honest here, I thought about it a little bit, but only to come up with a way to give her a gift without contributing to the over-abundance of toys that plagues many a parent. Solution - give a gift that is really an activity. And instead of another 'craft' that gets stuffed in a box, how about a project that results in a unique set of butterfly wings for playing dress up? I can't exactly remember being 3 very well, but I have a feeling this craft/dress up combo would have been right up my alley. And bonus for the parents - it takes up minimal space once completed. Just throw it in the dress up bin with all the princess dresses and call it a day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmrkcUhq00dw0W7Avg9hJn6eLcYBwzwiGgE3UuXtFSSmOlGRsP7PhITXAhv5St5aXGg16zQ-mjwSCb2ygCMfnljxziJpJwltTOMAx-w5ioeF47t4Q_JjdbGbp-5kTSfI78Ju58PH7vAX0/s1600/wings+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmrkcUhq00dw0W7Avg9hJn6eLcYBwzwiGgE3UuXtFSSmOlGRsP7PhITXAhv5St5aXGg16zQ-mjwSCb2ygCMfnljxziJpJwltTOMAx-w5ioeF47t4Q_JjdbGbp-5kTSfI78Ju58PH7vAX0/s1600/wings+12.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<u>Wing Materials</u><br />
Fabric - I used muslin, but other fabric like canvas would work also<br />
Scissors<br />
Pencil<br />
Black Craft Paint<br />
Fabric Medium<br />
Paint brush<br />
Black ribbon<br />
Black thread and sewing machine<br />
Fray Check (optional)<br />
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To make the wings, fold the fabric in half and sketch the wing outline with the fold of fabric as the center of the wings. Be mindful of the age/size of the child. Cut along the outline and lay the fabric flat on the ground. Outline (again in pencil) the areas you want to paint black. Using the monarch butterfly as an inspiration, I drew a simplified black outline with white spots around the wing edges. Be sure to leave lots of open space for the little artist to add her special touch. After mixing the medium and black craft paint per instructions on the paint medium bottle, paint the outlined black sections and let dry. I had originally intended to only paint one side of the fabric, but after seeing how the paint bled through, I thought making double sided wings would be even better. The following day I flipped the (now dry) fabric over and painted the same pattern on the other side. I didn't need to fray check the edges of the wings because the black paint 'sealed' the edges pretty well on its own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbM9MmZxLXG6yKKOgjTfZq1f6XHIfO-Wy1Xp10oQJajLmkfvhkIT43708WwqGB_XrEngNEHF55pNfSxUPJRQEJyY30Sy7Wob_N_46btZreQRlVGUdqAXVKdqrj-_Z9fBrnjKivp0rNS-i/s1600/butterfly+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbM9MmZxLXG6yKKOgjTfZq1f6XHIfO-Wy1Xp10oQJajLmkfvhkIT43708WwqGB_XrEngNEHF55pNfSxUPJRQEJyY30Sy7Wob_N_46btZreQRlVGUdqAXVKdqrj-_Z9fBrnjKivp0rNS-i/s1600/butterfly+Collage.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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At this point you will have beautiful wings, but no way to secure them to your little butterfly. Without exact arm measurements, I needed a simple and adjustable way to attach the wings to her arms that would allow for a range of sizes. After a little brainstorming I settled on a simple ribbon to tie on each arm. First you will need to cut black ribbons about 18" long. Fold the ribbons in half and pin the center of each ribbon in position along the top of the wings an equal distance from the center. Sew the ribbon to the wings by sewing about an inch up and down a few times. You can fray check the edge of the ribbons as desired.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aZAfqItGxswd9lW60bRxzN6iLrKqZJ2LdOCmZXjnd7HDMRWkj8EiMN3KBZ6JoU4zcUYEWX3B0JfPqYv0RP9CjAmX4xgCLCQMc1Rmfui3sqLxCu-VZKm7IXZW-Ciz-TspFlaPOeNTgUX2/s1600/butterfly+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aZAfqItGxswd9lW60bRxzN6iLrKqZJ2LdOCmZXjnd7HDMRWkj8EiMN3KBZ6JoU4zcUYEWX3B0JfPqYv0RP9CjAmX4xgCLCQMc1Rmfui3sqLxCu-VZKm7IXZW-Ciz-TspFlaPOeNTgUX2/s1600/butterfly+Collage2.jpg" height="442" width="640" /></a><br />
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Now for the really fun part - assembling the kit. To fill your kit, you will need the following:<br />
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<u>Kit Materials</u><br />
3 Paint colors<br />
Paint brush<br />
Fabric Medium and black paint (used above)<br />
3 small mason jars (for paint/medium mixing)<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqajZ5Nm40MzZQQ2c/edit?usp=sharing">Printable Instructions</a> for the parents<br />
Clear plastic paint can and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007R83VKE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007R83VKE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=LXMRNH3HE7ZNOWO5">Silhouette Cameo</a> with vinyl (optional for gift wrap)<br />
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You can use as many paint colors as you want here, but I found three to be a good balance of giving the little one options while not requiring mom/dad to mix a bunch of different colors with the medium. I did include the bottle of black paint used to create the wings in case they wanted to 'touch up' the black outline after the other painting was completed. I also printed some instructions for mom and dad, which can be found <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqajZ5Nm40MzZQQ2c/edit?usp=sharing">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Umm7s0wr8Wmj0zkx9c7LLYRBboRmh5mhUNxiVBODLTQh4t0kW267bzr_1HgPaY76L78PoglC-hmsmfXJ86GH6WGvysJUcF_kie4CsLYBpzkZTwLfg8WQ2jAnDDAzBMglMql2UD47d3q9/s1600/wings+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Umm7s0wr8Wmj0zkx9c7LLYRBboRmh5mhUNxiVBODLTQh4t0kW267bzr_1HgPaY76L78PoglC-hmsmfXJ86GH6WGvysJUcF_kie4CsLYBpzkZTwLfg8WQ2jAnDDAzBMglMql2UD47d3q9/s1600/wings+7.jpg" height="482" width="640" /></a><br />
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At this point I had an adorable pile of paints, tiny jars, and butterfly wings and it would have been a shame to hide all of this in a box. So I packed it all up into a clear plastic paint can and the result was almost too perfect. I mean a painting kit <i>in</i> a paint can...come on. The contents of the paint can were already a bit 'busy', so I kept the can decorations minimal. By now you have probably realized that I use my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007R83VKE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007R83VKE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=LXMRNH3HE7ZNOWO5">Silhouette Cameo</a> in nearly every project, so it should be no shock that I pulled it out here to make a custom label. I meshed a butterfly onto a scalloped frame, added the text, and then cut the whole label from a roll of hot pink vinyl. The vinyl stuck perfectly to the side of the paint can.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT4lYkrmY4uDLpSItxCJhFzz7MZOLjDYNSTg_e1LuiSFwmQ4zlMHmt_eLg3fTFL2UOdd6oRbsAKMZrho0U1Q46mhLmk8ntEjMNHSwR5SvcwxPbCHv8P4OCCFpvu8ebTqkykYpuP74oR-t/s1600/wings+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT4lYkrmY4uDLpSItxCJhFzz7MZOLjDYNSTg_e1LuiSFwmQ4zlMHmt_eLg3fTFL2UOdd6oRbsAKMZrho0U1Q46mhLmk8ntEjMNHSwR5SvcwxPbCHv8P4OCCFpvu8ebTqkykYpuP74oR-t/s1600/wings+14.jpg" height="502" width="640" /></a></div>
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I look forward to seeing how they turn out! She's going to make a lovely butterfly.<br />
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-7064365376216867372014-07-19T13:37:00.000-07:002014-07-19T13:37:14.268-07:00Waterproof Picnic Blanket and Handle Wrap | A Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuhMdCu3TbsSwpNU-KJS_nen_kN5-F9_Mlyibplg36EF8KdgZyzIM_LJvxwvlHSRp6Wmc5_LejkXs9xDnmHIMdUXoxjmC7z7xHEzhVXmLcwdwCHhdiOhsajIBDUdHG0x1nA_eBaPhiTSH/s1600/blanket+title+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuhMdCu3TbsSwpNU-KJS_nen_kN5-F9_Mlyibplg36EF8KdgZyzIM_LJvxwvlHSRp6Wmc5_LejkXs9xDnmHIMdUXoxjmC7z7xHEzhVXmLcwdwCHhdiOhsajIBDUdHG0x1nA_eBaPhiTSH/s1600/blanket+title+final.jpg" height="482" width="640" /></a></div>
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What do you give the person who has just about everything? I come upon this question all too frequently around gift giving occasions. Not because my family members are difficult to please, but rather because I just don't want to give them more 'stuff'. I find this particularly difficult with the guys of the family. I usually rely on my husband for 'guy ideas' - tools, bike stuff, gadgets etc. - stuff they will like and actually use. But every year there is one person that stumps us both. This year it was our brother-in-law. When we really get stumped we seem to explore 'experience gifts' (e.g. tickets to a game) or something handmade that will (hopefully) encourage fun experiences. After much brainstorming, online shopping (I have a toddler, gift shopping now rarely happens in stores), and reflection on their life/interests, I had an idea.<br />
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Now my sister and brother-in-law live in London with their two adorable dogs, Shirley and Frau. Last summer they generously invited us (and our 15 mo old at the time) to come visit in Oxford and London. They even put up with us and an overstimulated baby for two full weeks. We had ridiculously good weather while there and spent our days going on walks, exploring parks, and relaxing. I love London. I particularly love Green Park. Some of my best memories of London take place in parks. And though I have had sunny skies both times I have visited, rumor has it they have frequent rain. Where am I going with this? Well, I decided to make them a picnic blanket. A waterproof (rain = wet ground) and washable (dogs+parks+wet ground = mud) picnic blanket.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGWDlmII8P5y_V5j2hGotFUc3e3l9KTrc9fNC3wUocjLe933YOkzaRad_zJlYfLz1hySlBzY2GkED72c5Zh7X8QUqWMafrlufv9364yOYcnRHpToMN7HYoFgDe_0zW9I84w-lCDZ5JWZV/s1600/blanket+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGWDlmII8P5y_V5j2hGotFUc3e3l9KTrc9fNC3wUocjLe933YOkzaRad_zJlYfLz1hySlBzY2GkED72c5Zh7X8QUqWMafrlufv9364yOYcnRHpToMN7HYoFgDe_0zW9I84w-lCDZ5JWZV/s1600/blanket+4.jpg" height="388" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now sure you can buy picnic blankets and some of them are really great. I happen to love mine that was purchased for us as a wedding gift almost 6 years ago. And that is where I started, but I just couldn't find one within our price range that seemed to fit their personality. Now by this time it was getting really close to Christmas and I was kind of freaking out. So I did what I really hate to do...I gave the 'promise' of a custom picnic blanket as his gift. And this apparently turned in to a long term promise as it is now July and I have just finished the gift. Do I feel horrible! Well, hopefully it was worth the wait!<br />
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After much searching in fabric stores, I could not seem to find the right combination of pattern, color, and durability. So I grabbed two compatible blue colors of Canvas Duck Cloth and set out to make a sufficiently gender neutral custom stripe pattern. And, of course, this would be no simple stripe pattern of equal widths, but a gradient of widths and alternating colors.<br />
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After a little math, I settled finished blanket dimensions of the full width of the fabric (approximately 60") x 84" (7 feet or 2 1/3 yards). (Apologies in advance for mixing inches, feet, and yards together in my measurement denotations below.) This length worked perfectly for stripe widths starting at 4" and incrementing by 4" up to 24".<br />
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For the waterproof layer, I decided on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0053TXRBC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0053TXRBC&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=5CXZ7ZWJDNXTF6XG">PUL</a> (polyurethane laminate, 1Mil). This fabric makes up the outer shell of my cloth diapers and I've been impressed with its waterproof qualities and it is still soft, lightweight, and washable! I ordered 3 yards in a lovely Royal Blue from amazon. (I only needed 2 1/2 yards with seam allowances, but I wanted some buffer.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0YRaxBhpU9Q0f4io5-FTZENPGVyDSbIhmJpdHmwPb94UpHQuYzTLQuYYbcJsU9tBK1drb_m2Zk_J8jFD_KIqWKgAo0eKwJhv9je43Zz-j_H_Pb2gqAMgUU0h6AteMkhSm8Z5LO-k2g3M/s1600/blanket+wrap+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0YRaxBhpU9Q0f4io5-FTZENPGVyDSbIhmJpdHmwPb94UpHQuYzTLQuYYbcJsU9tBK1drb_m2Zk_J8jFD_KIqWKgAo0eKwJhv9je43Zz-j_H_Pb2gqAMgUU0h6AteMkhSm8Z5LO-k2g3M/s1600/blanket+wrap+7.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
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Materials for the Blanket<br />
2 1/2 yards of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0053TXRBC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0053TXRBC&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=5CXZ7ZWJDNXTF6XG">PUL</a> (2 1/3 yards + seam allowances)<br />
51" (approx 1 1/2 yards) of one color of canvas duck cloth<br />
39" (approx 1 1/4 yards) of a second color of canvas duck cloth<br />
Coordinating thread<br />
Sewing Machine<br />
Pins<br />
Cutting and Measuring Tools<br />
Iron and Ironing Board<br />
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Pre-wash all fabrics and dry according to fabric care instructions.<br />
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Cutting the Blanket Fabric<br />
To end up with finished stripe dimensions of 24", 20", 16", 12", 8", and 4" you will need to account for seam allowances (1/2" used here) and cut canvas strips of 25", 21", 17", 13", 9", and 5". Remember the second dimension of the strips in each case is the full width of the fabric (around 60"). The canvas color that you have 51" of will be cut into strips of 25", 17", and 9". Likewise, the canvas color that you have 39" of will be cut into strips of 21", 13", and 5". The PUL should be cut to a length of 85". <br />
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Assembling the Canvas Stripes<br />
First place all stripes next to each other on the floor in the order they will be sewn with right sides up. Start assembling the canvas stripes in pairs. First, place the right sides together of the 25" and 21" stripes and pin along the joining side. Repeat for the 17" and 13" pair, and the 9" and the 5" pair. Sew each pair along the pinned edge with a 1/2" seam allowance. You will then have three sewn pairs. Again lie all three pieces on the floor as they will be assembled in the final blanket. Pin the 25"/21" pair to the 17"/13" pair along the joining side with right sides together. Sew along the pinned edge with a 1/2" seam allowance. Again lay the pieces on the floor and pin the final 9"/5" pair to the rest of the blanket along the final joining side with right sides together. Sew along the pinned side with a 1/2" seam allowance. The canvas stripes should now be fully assembled into the top of the blanket!<br />
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Press the seams flat (open) on the wrong side of the blanket (shown below) and iron any wrinkles or creases in the canvas. Once attached to the PUL, you will not be able to iron the blanket without damaging the PUL.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGCjB4NUlAQUquhUDYTPlPed547ZqGBhEpJlVLqubfky8jzt4PO5AfQB_C0yPhrck38HZJERUHyNkFO09Y7Mjd1oAK87NBjJpxK44cXlDmFRksorfZ0eDuVjQa_uVERS43w6rK2w6ccYI/s1600/blanket+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGCjB4NUlAQUquhUDYTPlPed547ZqGBhEpJlVLqubfky8jzt4PO5AfQB_C0yPhrck38HZJERUHyNkFO09Y7Mjd1oAK87NBjJpxK44cXlDmFRksorfZ0eDuVjQa_uVERS43w6rK2w6ccYI/s1600/blanket+1.jpg" height="346" width="640" /></a><br />
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Blanket Assembly<br />
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Next lay the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0053TXRBC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0053TXRBC&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=5CXZ7ZWJDNXTF6XG">PUL</a> shiny side up on the floor. Place the striped blanket (right side down) on top of the shiny side of the PUL. In other words the two right sides of the fabric should be facing each other (together). Remember you will want to minimize pinning because you are poking holes in the waterproof layer. Also, the PUL will stretch slightly in one direction as you sew. To accommodate for this, I lightened up the pressure on the presser foot and pinned/sewed one side at a time. I also would suggest sewing down both sides and across the top and bottom in the same direction (e.g. left to right) instead of in a continuous line around the blanket to prevent twisting due to stretching in different directions. Start by pinning (sparingly) along the top side of the blanket. Sew along the pinned side with a 1/2" seam allowance and stop (backstitching at both ends). Once I completed this, I only noticed about 1/4" of stretching with my PUL which wasn't too bad. Next pin along the length of the blanket and sew. Then pin down the other long side of the blanket and sew. Finally, pin and sew the bottom of the blanket in the same direction as the top, leaving about 18" open in the center of this side. This gap will allow be used to turn the blanket right side out and will be closed upon topstitching.<br />
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Cut the corners of the blanket which will make for cleaner corners upon turning right side out. Be careful not to nip the seams. Turn the blanket right side out. Remember <i>do not</i> press the blanket. Instead, straighten the blanket, push the corners out fully (I use a point turner), and make sure the edges are fully laid out and ready for topstitching. Fold and pin the open section to match the rest of the blanket. I did also pin the edges of the blanket on all sides (sparingly) to make sure the edges stayed fully laid out and straight. Top stitch around the entire blanket 1/4" from the edge. I did complete this in one continuous seam all the way around the blanket. Pay particular attention to the area that had been left open, making sure the top stitching catches the folded fabric and seals the blanket fully.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxr-IVJi4H7XZ-bJ_LdtZk8Ilr3nRLmMYij7Z-2PiEVWOTwZL0XXQGUiK267rwwvCVAaZlGZHBoUXLfyqZh1RlPEr1V5EZ1TQPumBcXj9iRATdtNmelrzUtubvyg3l4MZ11ycEaGEYUEaf/s1600/blanket+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxr-IVJi4H7XZ-bJ_LdtZk8Ilr3nRLmMYij7Z-2PiEVWOTwZL0XXQGUiK267rwwvCVAaZlGZHBoUXLfyqZh1RlPEr1V5EZ1TQPumBcXj9iRATdtNmelrzUtubvyg3l4MZ11ycEaGEYUEaf/s1600/blanket+2.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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Voila, the blanket is complete! However, carrying a large blanket to and from a park can be a bit frustrating if there is no way to keep it all together. As this gift was already 7! months late, I figured I would go the extra mile and make a matching blanket wrap with handle.<br />
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Materials for the Wrap/Handle<br />
2 pieces of canvas fabric 11" x 21"<br />
1 strip of canvas 3 1/2" x 10"<br />
Two Buttons, 1" diameter<br />
Coordinating thread<br />
Sewing Machine<br />
Pins<br />
Cutting and Measuring Tools<br />
Iron and Ironing Board<br />
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Wrap Dimensions and Assembly<br />
To determine the dimensions of the wrap, I folded the finished picnic blanket in thirds the long way and rolled it up. Then I measured the width and circumference. I settled on finished dimensions of the wrap to be 10" x 20" (plus 1/2" seam allowances on all sides), hence the two 11" x 21" rectangles of canvas. For construction of the wrap, you can think of the wrap as if it were a tiny blanket. First, pin the two pieces of fabric with the right sides together and stitch around the edge of the blanket with a 1/2" seam allowance, leaving a few inches open on one of the sides. Snip the corners and turn the blanket right side out through the open seam. Press the corners out fully and iron flat. Fold the fabric at the open section to match the rest of the seam and pin together. Topstitch around the border of the wrap 1/4" from the edge, again making sure that the area left open is caught and sealed by the topstitch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakzqbZRRsTlFi2wHl2D4xErPaXRNj4AbL1ylMuCSdKAHHOt1mJ5P4LrkQM9x0FKY6ugRJ1jkbs2LtMAtFn-De3t1ENoluOIzw4dJ8sJCAhj3oqDVAXeexZ1OZcUaWauZrqRJWu-ZIoUnE/s1600/blanket+wrap+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakzqbZRRsTlFi2wHl2D4xErPaXRNj4AbL1ylMuCSdKAHHOt1mJ5P4LrkQM9x0FKY6ugRJ1jkbs2LtMAtFn-De3t1ENoluOIzw4dJ8sJCAhj3oqDVAXeexZ1OZcUaWauZrqRJWu-ZIoUnE/s1600/blanket+wrap+5.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a><br />
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Now find your two 1" buttons and place them approximately 3 inches from edges of the long side of the wrap and about an inch in from the edge of the short side. Sew the buttons to the wrap. Next mark the locations of the button holes. When folded up in thirds lengthwise and rolled, my blanket measured approximately 18" in circumference. This meant that I needed the center point of my buttons to be 18" from the outermost end of the button hole. Sew the button holes and cut the center open. Test the buttons and fit around the blanket.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVAJtwJqQK_i3Y1FTMFS18m7083dRGMLkkht1iBu9AE2BjiXvUkuhXQZXjEKpZqsUoSHUmzC7yH7GQsb9Sq8WwEG0qt_jVXld5aPgKebSKbtVJjAIBuFZABHBtlWXmi3PLmtXzCeFadAM/s1600/blanket+wrap+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVAJtwJqQK_i3Y1FTMFS18m7083dRGMLkkht1iBu9AE2BjiXvUkuhXQZXjEKpZqsUoSHUmzC7yH7GQsb9Sq8WwEG0qt_jVXld5aPgKebSKbtVJjAIBuFZABHBtlWXmi3PLmtXzCeFadAM/s1600/blanket+wrap+4.jpg" height="346" width="640" /></a></div>
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Handle Dimensions and Assembly<br />
And finally, it is time to make the handle. With a desired handle dimension of 1.5" x 8", you will need a 3.5" x 10" strip of fabric. Fold the strip in half lengthwise (right sides together) and sew along the long open side. Turn the 'tube' you have just created inside out and press with an iron. Top stitch along both long sides 1/8" from the edge to create a finished look. At both ends of the handle, fold under 1" of the handle and press a crease. Position the handle where you want it on the wrap (I did mine in the middle) and pin it in place, making sure the 1" portions on each side are folded under. Where the handle overlaps the 1" portions on each end of the handle, sew a box around the overlapping parts and an x across the center of the box for stability.<br />
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Care for the Blanket<br />
With some of the special handling needed with waterproof material, I would suggest including care/washing instructions for your blanket. I included the following on a tag with the gift:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Waterproof Blanket Care </i></div>
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Wash the blanket on medium to high heat</div>
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Do not use fabric softeners or bleach</div>
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Tumble dry low or air dry</div>
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Do not iron</div>
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Now I kind of want to make these blankets for everyone. I think they would make spectacular wedding gifts, bridal shower gifts, birthday gifts...you get the idea. If I didn't already have a picnic blanket I would make myself one too!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-19185917612450833922014-07-18T19:21:00.002-07:002015-02-09T08:43:29.410-08:00DIY Felt Nursery Mobile - A Baby Shower Group Activity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU082GiSwqOkD5LfDioN0Ars-g7z5BmWYbCNxhgMeqNVEuvJNMp6u3SkHDyPggkJrmmTps3xGk1gpLUJyd9_dSvOX64LT7in2MQ5V24EdQI5K4-EGi_oojw8A96c_1fet89t8EYu4w3ej6/s1600/mobile+title+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU082GiSwqOkD5LfDioN0Ars-g7z5BmWYbCNxhgMeqNVEuvJNMp6u3SkHDyPggkJrmmTps3xGk1gpLUJyd9_dSvOX64LT7in2MQ5V24EdQI5K4-EGi_oojw8A96c_1fet89t8EYu4w3ej6/s1600/mobile+title+1.jpg" height="640" width="434" /></a></div>
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If you have read any of my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/baby-its-cold-outside-winter-baby-shower.html">baby shower</a> posts, you have probably noticed that I am a huge fan of forgetting the often awkward baby shower games and instead completing a group activity or project. I've held a few no-game baby showers, and judging by the look of relief on the guests' faces they seem to be a welcome change-up. At a recent <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-safari-baby-shower.html">safari animal themed shower</a> I tested an idea that has turned out to be my favorite so far - making a felt animal mobile! I think what I love most about this project is that the result was a special keepsake for the nursery made by friends and family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jDUHASe_XnN9tHYaaLuLgYu5qXWb7tBdeLpKgbgMb157FuXpeD14E1FGVvlDi0TUAs-3f7ARO4YvHplrLPfHO1W4Vl7d_2VEigTgyI6Bek1Cx6HKn8dcqrYNUobmLT8UwUvgMMK9wUbM/s1600/mobile17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jDUHASe_XnN9tHYaaLuLgYu5qXWb7tBdeLpKgbgMb157FuXpeD14E1FGVvlDi0TUAs-3f7ARO4YvHplrLPfHO1W4Vl7d_2VEigTgyI6Bek1Cx6HKn8dcqrYNUobmLT8UwUvgMMK9wUbM/s1600/mobile17.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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You might be thinking...'How on earth do you make an entire mobile in the span of one baby shower?' Well, you don't. But with a little planning and prep work, you can get the bulk of the work done while keeping it fun and relaxed.<br />
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So, where do you start? With the mom-to-be. <br />
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As a rule, when I am considering creating something for the nursery, I opt for discussing the details with the mom-to-be instead of keeping it a surprise. I know I was picky about what went into my nursery and you really want her to like it! I discussed a few potential projects with the guest of honor before we settled on the mobile. We also talked specifics on the animal designs, colors, and materials. Let her be as involved as she wants to be - this should be fun for her too:).<br />
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As I mentioned, this project took a fair bit of planning and pre-shower prep work. You can draw inspiration for your mobiles from anywhere - pinterest, etsy, google images. Get creative! Inspiration for these animals came from various images and patterns online, though in the end I had to size and hand draw each one, adjusting the pattern so that each an<span style="background-color: white;">imal would be double sided. You can find all of my prep work, templates, and instruction packets <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqT1hWT2hFUE5QMlU/edit?usp=sharing">here</a></span><span style="background-color: white;">. We ended up with nine animals: toucan, lion, tiger, rhino, hippo, elephant, giraffe, zebra, alligator.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTs6ta8Ne8fywPmZ27w56SpWAVEdj88tGf-2oXwOlLaB3t05M6dXdQq9gWygfDkYbIq1NiR6Hv2urKAzEglYZQ1qmJ7Asad6ZWW200H4d-zl36cXhLD2Ln_rs7HxG63xMjRtl8bW_q0W4/s1600/mobile+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTs6ta8Ne8fywPmZ27w56SpWAVEdj88tGf-2oXwOlLaB3t05M6dXdQq9gWygfDkYbIq1NiR6Hv2urKAzEglYZQ1qmJ7Asad6ZWW200H4d-zl36cXhLD2Ln_rs7HxG63xMjRtl8bW_q0W4/s1600/mobile+collage+2.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0ZcdtRyKdsi3hpLi_MQCSXPvYRZJP0jBO9HN_Ty7QyaAGLctpSjZkBAq_8NGcKIHW4VYjSqF52HLYN-fbtdhkV4zZxaZtro8t0LHV_pa-H2f5VQlKKMjdDi5t9f192jCN4yKiAvLXsXE/s1600/mobile+collage+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0ZcdtRyKdsi3hpLi_MQCSXPvYRZJP0jBO9HN_Ty7QyaAGLctpSjZkBAq_8NGcKIHW4VYjSqF52HLYN-fbtdhkV4zZxaZtro8t0LHV_pa-H2f5VQlKKMjdDi5t9f192jCN4yKiAvLXsXE/s1600/mobile+collage+3.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwTY7dgbTtVPBthe9PillQipvP0iZo2BoaQrtu23c_dKfjQddmNhqfiHbyHp7xQmOwpAysF1Yk4wvDDc1mEqX8ph62glm6WXHxsFoS35GQPRaZOiFToPnu8wRCFcpXZ-0jA08xaJRU8B8/s1600/mobile+collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwTY7dgbTtVPBthe9PillQipvP0iZo2BoaQrtu23c_dKfjQddmNhqfiHbyHp7xQmOwpAysF1Yk4wvDDc1mEqX8ph62glm6WXHxsFoS35GQPRaZOiFToPnu8wRCFcpXZ-0jA08xaJRU8B8/s1600/mobile+collage1.jpg" height="192" width="640" /></a><br />
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To give the guests the best shot of finishing on time, you will need to completed some of the work in advance. Prior to the shower I suggest you:<br />
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Select designs and make patterns<br />
Purchase materials (see list below)<br />
Pre-cut all the felt pieces<br />
Embroider any details (like the animal faces)<br />
Complete one animal as an example (and to help you write the instructions)<br />
Type up instructions for each animal and take pictures of what the animals should look like assembled (see my instructions <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqT1hWT2hFUE5QMlU/edit?usp=sharing">here</a>)<br />
Assemble an activity packet for each animal including: embroidery thread, needle, instructions, photo, and all the pre-cut animal pieces<br />
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The day of the shower, each guest received an activity packet including all the items they would need to complete her animal. We also placed a few shared supplies in the middle of the table: fabri-tac, scissors, pins, bamboo skewers and fiber-fill for stuffing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmnsWbPnqq7UR1-Q5u8lCeR3MvDpsXMb8PESOWZvcTl1CupxdRmxZalU8RgsDuCEAdrst01EI0IoEVznLzZqke_9dLIvIEKK84yuFKb-1SzWaT3O4_WC2Gtc3c2-jj2Wl7-LEf-yPwfqF/s1600/working+on+mobile2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmnsWbPnqq7UR1-Q5u8lCeR3MvDpsXMb8PESOWZvcTl1CupxdRmxZalU8RgsDuCEAdrst01EI0IoEVznLzZqke_9dLIvIEKK84yuFKb-1SzWaT3O4_WC2Gtc3c2-jj2Wl7-LEf-yPwfqF/s1600/working+on+mobile2.jpg" height="465" width="640" /></a><br />
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The guests were tasked with assembling the pieces per the photos, glueing on any details, lightly stuffing the animal, and sewing the border. This turned out to be plenty of work to keep them busy, and in the end I only had to finish up a few of the animals.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycnDW1oyoCWjsB__czfDcWe1L61fcXy4jtO4lhrM9ZX-OiKognhTNBGOdh9miBwS7aZj5DwyqMqnYivM80HKWwSZbai4Abi749pz-zSNtnVLXTn9bEZPKPIv0akQrTkTdLfCz8WZSE1gq/s1600/working+on+mobile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycnDW1oyoCWjsB__czfDcWe1L61fcXy4jtO4lhrM9ZX-OiKognhTNBGOdh9miBwS7aZj5DwyqMqnYivM80HKWwSZbai4Abi749pz-zSNtnVLXTn9bEZPKPIv0akQrTkTdLfCz8WZSE1gq/s1600/working+on+mobile.jpg" height="640" width="608" /></a><br />
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One last quick note before I go into the after-shower mobile assembly - You might want to consider having an alternative project available for those less comfortable with crafting. This is also a good idea if you have more guests than mobile animals. A mobile with 23 animals might be a bit ridiculous (or it could be awesome - your call). See my <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/a-safari-baby-shower.html">safari baby shower</a> post for the details of the alternative project we chose - animal silhouette art.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98IrcidduS010_ovUjKmHClleh0kAk0BNLKZvZijN7seGK4bKWqCQHR1w3bQL2gdT1gn0WD5oibaK1Mh942LFE-hLNJmOZ0EQvB-fSP045fncPNijquScGG1x6g3vjk6Ws7-FCaDsZN_K/s1600/silhouette+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98IrcidduS010_ovUjKmHClleh0kAk0BNLKZvZijN7seGK4bKWqCQHR1w3bQL2gdT1gn0WD5oibaK1Mh942LFE-hLNJmOZ0EQvB-fSP045fncPNijquScGG1x6g3vjk6Ws7-FCaDsZN_K/s1600/silhouette+art.jpg" height="332" width="640" /></a></div>
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Final assembly of the mobile is too much to expect within the 'limitations' of a baby shower. Promising the guests that I would send pictures of the completed mobile, I packed up the animals and supplies for assembly at home. I'll also confess that at the time of the shower I wasn't entirely clear on the assembly specifics. Thankfully, it turned out to be easier than I expected.<br />
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First, I attached a long strand of white embroidery thread to the top of each animal. It is important to attach this thread not necessarily in the middle of the animal, but at a point that results in a balanced animal (not slanted to one side). I put a small dab of glue on the knot to prevent unraveling. For additional decoration and color, I strung tiny felt balls on the thread above the animals.<br />
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There are a few options for the frame of a mobile. I chose to use embroidery hoops - one 14" and one 7" diameter hoop, both painted white with craft paint. (I didn't think of this at the time, but you could also have a few guests paint the embroidery hoops during the shower.) After I decided how to allot animals between the two hoops and recruited my lovely assistant (aka my husband), I started the final assembly. <br />
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Once all the animals were secured to thread, I fed each animal's thread between the two pieces of the embroidery hoop, spacing them evenly around the circumference. Gathering all the animal strands for the outer hoop together, I lifted the assembly off the table like it would hang from the ceiling. At this point my husband held the strands so I could balance the mobile. After carefully positioning the animals at the same height, I tightened the embroidery hoop to secure the threads in place. Then I tied the bunch of threads to a small wooden ring (also painted white), making sure the embroidery hoop stayed evenly balanced. Once the outer hoop was secured, I repeated the positioning and balancing of the animals for the second smaller hoop. Positioning the smaller hoop to hang inside and slightly below the larger hoop, I secured the second hoop threads to the same small wooden ring, again making sure the mobile stayed evenly balanced. You can add small dabs of glue to secure parts of the mobile as needed.<br />
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{Update: In the time since this party, I have completed DIY mobiles at <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2015/02/twinkle-twinkle-little-star-tale-of-two.html">two other baby showers</a>. A second option for constructing the mobile uses only the inner wooden ring of the embroidery hoop. Essentially you complete all the above steps, but instead of sandwiching the thread between the two hoops, you simply wrap the thread around the inner continuous hoop (not the one with the screw and opening) and secure it with a knot. This method works equally as well and removes the screw portion of the hoop from the mobile. Just be sure to pay particular attention to balancing the mobile while tying the knots.}<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I delivered the mobile to the mom-to-be as soon as it was finished. I'm thrilled with how it turned out. It looks very happy to me. I have a feeling this is not the last mobile I'll be making at a baby shower.</span><br />
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<u style="background-color: white;">Materials:</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178MNFO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00178MNFO&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=BDUX6CE3RLVLBV5G">Fabri-Tac</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thelitlovblo-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00178MNFO" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Embroidery needles</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Embroidery thread in matching colors to sew the animal border and hang the animals from the frame</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Felt sheets - I used 100% wool</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Felt balls - I used 100% wool</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Scissors</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Pins (optional)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Bamboo skewers</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Fiberfill</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Embroidery hoops - one <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0046IUSJK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0046IUSJK&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=MPKXJ6SI32LPZWQ3">14"</a> and one <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004KYZ4K8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004KYZ4K8&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=PQ4LRRYK6RE5JSN3">7"</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Craft paint and brush</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Small wood ring</span><br />
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-34607430463981499632014-06-26T20:26:00.002-07:002014-07-20T19:27:55.418-07:00A Safari Baby Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is no secret I like parties...and baking...and babies, and when the three of these loves combine, well, I get just a wee bit excited. This might be one of my favorite baby showers yet!<br />
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Usually when I pick a party theme I have a pretty good idea of how I want it to look in my head from the beginning. This safari animal theme (chosen to match the baby's nursery) was a bit different. I was drawing a blank initially, but thankfully it developed over the course of a few weeks and a few trips to the craft stores.<br />
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When I'm lost, I start by picking colors. The baby's gender is a secret so we kept the colors completely gender neutral with a palette of bright green, pastel orange, and a light yellow. Next came the animals. Giraffes were an obvious choices given the color scheme and with the help of my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007R83VKE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007R83VKE&linkCode=as2&tag=thelitlovblo-20&linkId=C4ZTGSJ3N634JTPP">Silhouette Cameo</a>, I added alligators, lions, elephants, and zebras. We strung two animal garlands along the doorway and the food table, and strands of three animals hung down vertically from underneath the patio umbrella.<br />
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A 'welcome baby' garland decorated the patio backdrop for the outdoor portion of the party. The bits of grass coming up among the letters tied the garland in with the table centerpieces.<br />
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I first used wheatgrass centerpieces in my son's <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/01/a-very-hungry-caterpillar-inspired.html">Very Hungry Caterpillar 1st birthday party</a>. It is a cute, cheap, and very quick centerpiece. The seeds grow to full height in only 10 days! For the safari theme, I put giraffes peeking out among the grass. These pots and a few of my son's matching toys gave a festive look to the tables and kept the tablecloths from blowing away.<br />
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{As a side note my toddler absolutely loved watching the wheat grass grow. It grows so quickly that he noticed progress every day. He repeatedly told me we needed to give it water to drink and that the green grass was growing. Adorable. I might buy some more seeds just so he can do it again.}<br />
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My co-hostess was in charge of the non-desserts and provided a lovely (and delicious) spread of yogurt parfaits, mini-quiche, and fruit salad - perfect for a brunch time shower. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the delicious <a href="http://www.missinthekitchen.com/2013/08/26/virgin-peach-raspberry-bellinis/">virgin peach bellinis</a>! I provided the dessert selection with my go-to sugar cookies and Mexican chocolate cake. <br />
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I kept the cake decorations fairly simple with a fondant giraffe print of orange shapes on top of a yellow base. And how adorably simple is this gold wire 'baby' cake topper? I loved it so much I gave it a whole separate <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/06/free-template-baby-shower-cake-topper.html">post</a> including a free template and the diy instructions!<br />
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Despite the simple-ish cake, I went a little crazy with the sugar cookies. Sur la Table had so many cute animal cookie cutters that I practically made a zoo. We had hippos, giraffes, zebras, lions, and elephants.<br />
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In fact, I made so many of these cookies that we sent them home with the guests as party favors. The animals were slipped into glassine bags and decorated with miniature clothespins, washi tape, baker's twine, and calligraphy 'thank you' tags. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisk5eIiXU8jzXZHIOxJdqhV2iAEoGFCiOtvCLHqiTR08XnQy9W5DgjNntI_wLCgQMq4y6e0GxE-xm4l-lrKJQoxtUgQ5pm2J_s2ssjaSBfwavXazFtlSWISV5mtgPjg-BMB4dCwzJI16k_/s1600/favor+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisk5eIiXU8jzXZHIOxJdqhV2iAEoGFCiOtvCLHqiTR08XnQy9W5DgjNntI_wLCgQMq4y6e0GxE-xm4l-lrKJQoxtUgQ5pm2J_s2ssjaSBfwavXazFtlSWISV5mtgPjg-BMB4dCwzJI16k_/s1600/favor+collage.jpg" height="296" width="640" /></a></div>
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My favorite part of the whole party, however, had to be the group activities. Lately, I have been forgoing the typical awkward party games and instead preparing group activities or crafts. For example, my last baby shower featured <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2013/12/baby-its-cold-outside-winter-baby-shower.html">cookie decorating</a>. In this case, the guests helped to complete a safari animal mobile for the baby's nursery! This took a little coordination with the guest of honor in advance, but it was well worth it. To keep the crafting simple and within the time limits of the party, I prepared packets for each animal prior to the party including the designs, pre-cut materials, and printed instructions. I can't wait to see the final product in the nursery! See the full details on this mobile and how to make your own <a href="http://www.theselittleloves.com/2014/07/diy-felt-nursery-mobile-baby-shower.html">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2X1XOnN0Wahj698xOjlJubUyh0ku93PRzK5qsHuUYpBR80uxt0bShxg2xHR6RPEnQLgGroX1HhPEvwU14D-DHZhY_uG7MOuCRMXGXrUXwyMBWYxN2-uOEVO9D91B3AVfLDaXQ1M1qTWx/s1600/mobile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2X1XOnN0Wahj698xOjlJubUyh0ku93PRzK5qsHuUYpBR80uxt0bShxg2xHR6RPEnQLgGroX1HhPEvwU14D-DHZhY_uG7MOuCRMXGXrUXwyMBWYxN2-uOEVO9D91B3AVfLDaXQ1M1qTWx/s1600/mobile.jpg" height="640" width="434" /></a></div>
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For the guests less comfortable with crafting, we had a second easier option of creating animal silhouette art with patterned paper. The guests would pick coordinating sheets of paper, cut animal silhouettes (from stencils or hand-drawn) and then glue them together. Once framed, they would make an adorable collection of art for the nursery walls.<br />
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It ended up a really fun day, mostly because of the great people and the super sweet mom-to-be. We now are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new little one!<br />
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Supplies<br />
Wheat Grass - Seed Packet at Whole Foods<br />
Designs from Silhouette - alligator, echo park giraffe, elephants, grass, house of 3 celebrate, lion, zebra<br />
Washi Tape, Paper, Ribbon, Miniature Clothespins, Cake Topper Wire - Michaels<br />
Glassine Bags - Etsy<br />
Horse (zebra), Elephant, Hippo, Giraffe and Lion Cookie Cutters - Sur la Table<br />
Plaque Cookie Cutter - Karen's Cookies<br />
Baker's Twine, Pointed Pen Calligraphy and Ink - The Makery Los AltosBethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9099290604550689437.post-83228201714232546852014-06-17T20:28:00.002-07:002014-06-22T18:51:48.371-07:00Free Template: Baby Shower Cake Topper <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcqPGYuX6ewsUsSbrFcv1dnacgSAm72YBiq-qnvn_CQPS_ptTssMGeB3REB4a4ib-kILD8ptIs8EOP_SNdy4bWQBfgIb9gsTBdwA-M1-o6amE_V2qKqbm43mjqXBaZ8SoPu9FMqja019M/s1600/cake+topper+title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcqPGYuX6ewsUsSbrFcv1dnacgSAm72YBiq-qnvn_CQPS_ptTssMGeB3REB4a4ib-kILD8ptIs8EOP_SNdy4bWQBfgIb9gsTBdwA-M1-o6amE_V2qKqbm43mjqXBaZ8SoPu9FMqja019M/s1600/cake+topper+title.jpg" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
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I love sharing free templates of my latest crafting adventures and I've got a new one for you!<br />
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It is an adorably simple cake topper I made for a baby shower. I must have still had calligraphy on the brain :).<br />
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The materials needed are minimal - thick gold colored floral wire, bamboo food skewers, wire cutters, and my <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqTk9TMDZodkpBWE5qbUN1Tm5MZFh4WUFmOGhr/edit?usp=sharing">free printable template</a>.<br />
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To begin, leave a few inches of extra wire before you start the letters. When forming the letters, gently bend the wire around multiple fingers at a time to get a nice soft curve (kinked wire is hard to smooth out). I found it was also easier to use the pre-bent direction of the wire coil for the curves whenever possible. Follow the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Tcx2i0OxaqTk9TMDZodkpBWE5qbUN1Tm5MZFh4WUFmOGhr/edit?usp=sharing">template</a> for letter form and sizing. At the end of the word, use wire cutters to cut the wire leaving a few extra inches at the end of the word as well. The extra wire at the beginning and end of the word are used to wrap around the end of the bamboo skewers. I found that about three tight wraps around the skewer to be sufficient to keep it from slipping. Once it is secured to the skewers, trim any excess wire.<br />
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Once I got the sizing right, it took me about 10 minutes to make. You may need to use scissors to cut down the bamboo skewers to get the right height for the cake.<br />
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I'm pretty excited about how this turned out. And the idea of a wire word topper is so versatile - you could do an 'I do' or 'Mr & Mrs' for a bridal shower. You can also add embellishments to the skewers (think small flowers, ribbon). Get creative! Or keep it simple like this one.<br />
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<br />Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599505857976644524noreply@blogger.com0