DIY: Cabinet Makeover

While I LOVE being a home-owner, it seems that there is never a shortage of projects to complete!  I am always looking for new ways to update this or re-purpose that, and our kitchen is no exception.  Not exactly user-friendly and with slightly lopsided builders' cabinets, I decided to jazz them up a bit with some decoupage and a fun mod kitchen themed paper.  It brightened up the whole space and makes me actually want to use it- now I just need to learn how to cook!  We have family coming this weekend and I wanted to make it more cozy. 

Supplies:

Scrapbook Paper

Paper Cutter

Ruler/Pencil

Mod Podge

Sponge Brush

1. Choose your paper- make it fun!  2. Measure the area where your paper is going to go and use a paper cutter for straight edges.  3. Once you have the size you need, apply the Mod Podge to the back of the paper and position it where you want it on the surface (I chose matte-medium because I didn't want super-glossy cabinets, but you can use whichever suits your project).  When you have the paper placed, give it a little time to dry underneath and then apply a coat on top of the paper, let dry, and repeat.  You can put as many layers of decoupage medium as desired.

Tip: If you get some air bubbles in your paper while the Mod Podge is drying, take a small pin or thumbtack and lightly poke the bubble and pat to get the air out. 

4. Enjoy your new cabinets!  Remember that Mod Podge IS water-soluble so you may want to apply a sealant to the top once everything is completely dry.  But if not, this means that you can change the themes when you get tired of the pattern or if it gets icky.  Now I am on the hunt for the perfect knobs to go with my new funky kitchen!

As always, Mr. Jasper is on hand to help...

I hope you will try this technique on something in your home!  It's so easy and the results make for a personalized touch to your space- and a great conversation starter.  Have a great day!

DIY: Watercolor Brooch

I love the way that just adding one accessory can add something special to an outfit.  I have recently discovered a love of brooches and while putting together my craft room, I found a bit of felt and decided to make a little something fun.  Here's what I came up with: 

Supplies:

Felt

Circle Template

Watercolor Image

Superglue/Crystals

Pin Back

Needle and Thread

 1. Using the template, draw a circle on a piece of felt in any color you choose and cut out the outside and the center./2. Copy the circle onto a watercolor image (or any image that inspires you) and cut out, leaving about a 1/4 inch from the edge.  I quickly drew and painted a vintage looking portrait, but really anything would work!/3. Stitch the drawing to the open middle of the circle./4. Cut a smaller circle in a contrasting color and stitch a pin back to the middle with a needle and thread, then superglue to the back of the main piece./5. For an extra touch, I cut out some small leaves to go with the flowers in the painting and then used hotfix crystals to give it some sparkle.  Make sure everything is dry and then enjoy adding something unique to your next outfit!

DIY: Christmas Cards

Wondering what to give your co-workers, friends, or extended family?  Maybe these cute and simple handmade cards will help bring joy to everyone on your list!  With just a few supplies and a little creativity, you can bring a personal touch to your gift-giving this year.  Enjoy and have fun!

Supplies:

Bristol Board or Watercolor Paper

Alphabet Vinyl Stickers

Watercolors

Brushes 

 

Fold the bristol board or watercolor paper in half with a small overlap.  

You can tear or use a pair of decorative scissors to scallop the bottom.  

Pick a fun and festive word and use the vinyl stickers to apply it to the paper.  

Make a wash over the card using water.

 

 Pick a color you want and watercolor over the wash.  

Try mixing different colors together and dropping them in pools of water on the page.  Another fun technique is sprinkling salt over the wash of color.   

You can really have fun with however you like to paint.

 When you have the look you like, remove the vinyl stickers! 

 

 You can embellish the words and use your creativity 

to make the cards more interesting.

If you don't feel like using stickers, you can always embellish a stamp with a little color and add a pop of sparkle...because you can never have too much sparkle!!

Happy Holidays to everyone!