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"Kathy Cano Murillo strikes us as one of those people who, stranded on a desert island with nothing but a volleyball, a deck of playing cards and some coconuts, would not only craft a rescue vehicle and distress signal but whip up a spiffy castaway-themed wardrobe to wear as she did so. And she would be having a great time. And so would you. Visit the Arizona Republic contributor's site to get the craft fever yourself."

– USA Today

Stumped on a project, application or product? Send me a note with your crafty crisis. I'll do my best to come to the rescue! AND - if you are a clever crafter and can offer a suggestion, please post a comment :-)

Monday, August 11, 2008

Come ask me in person!



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http://www.CraftyChica.com

Wednesday, July 06, 2005

Marble magnets in a minute

Hello. I attended the Latino Film Festival in Chandler last year and you were there teaching us how to do a magnet. I loved the idea and am curious if you can send me the instructions on how to do it. I live in NYC now and so I wont be able to attend any of your events for a while so I thought that email was the best way to ask you. Thanks.
Sandra


Hi Sandra!
Marble magnets are the best craft - easy, fast and they rock the party when you give them out as gifts. Basically you just add a small drop of Elmer's on the back of the CLEAR glass pebble and rub it around the surface to make a thin layer. After you cut out the picture you want to use, place it right side down on the glue. Press it to squeeze out any air bubbles. The Elmer's will dry clear. And then you just hot glue on a sturdy magnet. Color copies or magazine photos work best - studio photos are too thick and won't adhere to the glass.
Happy gluing!
Kathy :-)


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http://www.CraftyChica.com

Sunday, July 03, 2005

Crafty coolness

Hi Kathy!
First of all, I really love the new website. It's easier to find everything, good job on it! I was reading your "about" page and was intrigued by the quote you said when asked to write an arts and crafts column, "I don't do crafts, I do art". I know now you love arts AND crafts, but what do you think the difference is between the two? And why do you think the word "crafts" is looked down upon? Or am I the only one that thinks so?
xoxo,
Bridgette (a Vegas artist/crafter)


Howdy Bridgette!
I just had to post your question here because this is the THIRD time this topic has crossed my path this week. Here's my two cents: I think many people think of art as something that makes a statement, perhaps something very thought provoking, original in design, one-of-a-kind. And maybe those same people think of crafts as something that is made more out of the pleasure of a hobby than sending a message. Some folks don't even take itthat far, they automatically roll their eyes and think of macrame owls, turquoise plastic canvas dolls or first grade art class.

As we all know - that has changed SO much. Crafts are so hip. Crafts are something anyone can do without technical or specialized training. Most projects are some what easy so people can take the basics of an idea and then alter it to fit their personality. I think crafts have a lot of meaning. It isn't just about decorating anymore, it's all about self-expression and love. Either love for yourself (doing something special just for you!) or love for someone else. It's about creating something from your spirit in the hopes of addng something beautiful or fun to the world.

I also believe that crafitness is more than glue and scissors. It's a lifestyle. Seeing positive potential in every situation you come across. In trouble? Think of your drama as a craft project metaphor and how it can be transformed into something magnificent!

I come across friends who giggle over the word "craft" or "crafty". Here's my repsonse!! I'm all about busting stereotypes and with everything I make I have a mental mission to make it cool so people will think twice when they hear the word. Look at these examples that prove how cool craftiness is these days:

There are women's groups:
Austin Craft Mafia
Portland Super Crafty
Phoenix Fridas
And more - Churchof Craft.org; Vickie Howell of Knitty Gritty who sells t-shirts that says "Craft. Rock. Live." Plus there are the web sites GetCrafty.com, Craftster.org, CraftPop.com, CraftRevolution.com.

Even the dictionary says good things about being crafty!
Craft
Definition: skill.
Synonyms: ability, adeptness, adroitness, aptitude, art, artistry, cleverness, competence, cunning, dexterity, expertise, expertness, ingenuity, knack, know-how, proficiency, technique, workmanship.

I also found this thread on GetCrafty.com, very interesting! OK, please share your thoughts on the topic! I give two repsectful thumbs up to all thing craft-like, crafty and craftylicious!

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http://www.CraftyChica.com

Saturday, March 19, 2005

ATC Swap

Hi Kathy! 
 
I feel as though we are old friends ~grins~  cause I read you all of the time.  
I have just gotten into ATC's and I love them.  Do you know when you might be doing another trade?  I would love to get into one that you would host.
 
Thanks!!
 Mindy

Hi Mindy!
I'd be glad to host one again! Please check back this April or May. And sign up for the newsletter, I'll mention it in there!
Kathy :-)

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http://www.CraftyChica.com

Painting an office chair

Hola amiga,
 
Please help.  I was given a (practically) brand new computer desk chair for free.  I needed one for my son's room.  Well, the chair turned out to be mauve in color.  Now, don't get me wrong- I appreciated it and said thank you.  My son has not complained (yet) but then again his friends haven't been over yet.  He's twelve so I'd like to paint the fabric before this marks him for life. HAHAHA.  Anyways, how can I paint the fabric or cover it up without tearing apart the chair?  It is in such good condition I'd hate to mess it up.  Hope to hear from you before our next pinata.  Thank you and I'm enjoying you site.
 Always,
Debi

Hi Debi!
What kind of fabric is it? On most fabrics you can use water-based acrylic, lots of it! You can apply a layer of gesso to make it smooth to paint on, and then dive in with acrylics. Use large foam stamps if you feel like gettin' funky with it. When you are done, use a water-based varnish to seal it all in.
Hope it works out!
Kathy :-)

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http://www.CraftyChica.com