Sunday, February 27, 2011

Art journaling


2011-02-26 15:00:19 +0000
Originally uploaded by janellcl
In spite of all the unfinished projects that sit waiting for me in my sewing room, I found another great project to begin! Four days up north with Jerry was the perfect setting to try my hand at making a scrapbook. I bought a kit for a journal at the local Archiver's store, made sure I had everything that I thought I would need, and sat down in the Great Room by the fireplace while it snowed outside.

What fun! I only got glue on my pants once and didn't cut myself even once. I started with a small photo album-I printed a handful of photos ahead of time so I would have some to embellish and put in. Turned out cute and was fun to figure it all out.

Then on the to the journal project. That involved making your own book and embellishing every page. I made pockets, attached a glassene pocket, and cut out little motifs to my heart's delight. What fun! I didn't bring any photos for this journal so did all the prep and now will have the fun of deciding what should go in it.

I think this will be a good addition of my list of crafts. I may take photos of the steps to finish my next quilt and use this type of journal as a way to capture what went into it's design and execution. Fun and productive!

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

New Coasters


Coasters 2-19-2011 12
Originally uploaded by janellcl
We've been working on putting together some coasters that are the perfect gift. With snow storms again hitting our part of the country, we just can't stop working with bright fabrics and simple patterns. I think we both want Spring to arrive and so having a feeling of accomplishment when we finish this type of project-in new fabric-really helps.

What are you working on now?

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Bree and Grandma NYEve


Bree and Grandma NYEve
Originally uploaded by janellcl
So far we have had three great sleepovers with our two oldest grandkids. All three times I have been able to put together a craft project for Bree and Grandma to do. We've made great coasters, worked on our first jewelry project, and created Valentine's. I think all three were successful. We had interesting conversation along the way and I got to enjoy the way Bree's creativity came through in all three projects.

Part of the fun of this kind of event is that feeling of sharing my love of crafts with her. It's not necessarily the success of the project that I enjoy as much as the willingness to try something new. Of course, having something to give to her mom or a friend is a great bonus! What types of projects keep your kids/grandkids busy? I've got more sleepovers to plan for so I need some more ideas!

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Valentine Girl


valentinegirl
Originally uploaded by janellcl
We designed this pillow about 10 years ago. She is still the sweetest Valentine we have ever seen. Following the SunBonnet Sue tradition from applique quilting, she is offering her valentine wishes to you.

I have to made a Valentine box for work. We are doing a Valentine exchange here and tonight I think I will pull out all my scrapbook paper and stamps and get at this project. There may even be enough time to do something stitched. Any quick ideas you are willing to share???

Thursday, February 3, 2011

We need BRIGHTS!


Julia 4
Originally uploaded by janellcl
Not sure about your part of the world, but we are covered in snow and suffering through terrible wind chill negative degree temperatures. Who cares what the groundhog says, we definitely have lots of winter ahead of us.

In order to try to stay cheerful I went in my fabric stash and pulled out all the spring colors I could find. What delightful colors and designs are in the market right now. This collection just makes me think of spring! I can feel a placemat or two ready to be created. How about you?

What are you doing to counter the cold and grey days of winter 2011?

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

February snow boys


February snow boys
Originally uploaded by janellcl
Jeanne's family is visiting from Spain! Adam (her son), Tania (daughter-in-law) and Roco (grandson) are here for 2 weeks. Roco is not quite sure what he think about their dog-plus there is all this white stuff on the ground and falling from the sky!

I'll be continuing with some new postings to our Etsy shop. Hope you remember to take a peak over there!