by Kathy Cano-Murillo - Jul. 17, 2004 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

Aside from oversize bad hair and ultra-synthesized pop songs, the '80s showcased some great musical memories, such as the record album covers.

It's a crime to let such visual nuggets of pleasure as those from Devo, Culture Club, Roxy Music and the Motels, for example, go unnoticed in the thrift store bargain bins. So I'm spreading the word to rescue these fabulous pieces of art and convert them into functional desk accessories.

The album covers make great scrapbooks to hold all your concert memorabilia such as ticket stubs, cocktail napkins, swizzle sticks, matchbox covers, autographs and photos. The records can be trimmed to make a handsome journal cover. Not impressed yet? Try using black duct tape to connect two 45s to create a totally rad greeting card. Boy George would be so proud!


'80s-themed record album scrapbook

Supplies
1 record album cover
Glue stick, scissors, pencil
Hole punch
Small binder rings
Stack of scrapbook paper, 12 by 12 inches

Directions: Cut along the top and bottom seam of the album cover (not the spine), so it opens like a book. If the cover has a cool inner sleeve, remove it and cut apart the two sides and use the glue stick to affix them to the inside of each cover, to serve as a lining for your scrapbook. Punch three holes evenly along the left side of the cover. Place the stack of scrapbook paper underneath the cover so the left-hand side edges are lined up. Use a pencil to mark a spot through the holes onto the paper so you will know where to punch the holes. Remove the album cover and set aside. Punch the holes in the stack of paper where you made the marks. Place the stack of paper inside the cover so it is flush with the left side. Hold it in place so the holes line up and attach the binder rings. Decorate as desired.

Directions for record version: Use a utility knife to score a line down the side or center of the record. Place it along a sharp edge of a counter and snap off the edge. Drill three holes along the side. Cut a stack of paper and punch holes along the side to fit within the record. Insert binder rings. Decorate the outside if desired.

Variations: For a more polished look, laminate the album cover. If you don't want to use the actual cover, make a color copy and decoupage it to thin wood or foam board. On the record itself, if you have jagged edges, use a pair of flat pliers to remove them or use a nail file.


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CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!

Other links:
STORE * BOOK * T-SHIRTS * MY SPACE * FLICKR

* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: paper, recycled

by Kathy Cano-Murillo - Jul. 24, 2004 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

Itching for a bit of glitz in your life? It doesn't mean you have to walk out of your house in a rhinestone-encrusted biker jacket or floppy sequined flower in your hair. It can be as simple as juicing up your cellphone with sparkly charm.

But don't go cheap. If you are serious about having a classy designer look, invest some bucks in Austrian-imported Swarovski crystals. Such movie stars as Lindsay Lohan and Sarah Jessica Parker are getting in on the act and hiring artists to embellish their phones, Sidekicks and even hairbrushes.

The crystals, which come DIY ready in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, can be purchased at Diane Ribbon and Notion, 2319 W. Holly St., Phoenix, (602) 271-9273. A gross (144) ranges in price from $8 to $33.

But if you feel like spending a wad of cash, check out MyBlingRing.com, where you can buy a single-color Bling-It-Yourself Kit for $95, or nycpeach.com, where you can purchase a predecorated cover for $395.


Swarovski crystal cellphone

Supplies
Cellphone (or cellphone cover)
Assorted Swarovski crystals
Crafter's Pick "The Ultimate" Adhesive
Small dish or paper towel
Chopstick (or toothpick)
Tweezers

Directions: Sketch the design you would like to use and decide on colors and size of crystals. Hold different sizes of crystals up to the phone to see which looks best. Arrange the pattern on a flat surface before you begin gluing. You can apply crystals in even rows or circular patterns, depending on the shape of the phone. Squeeze a dollop of the glue onto the dish or paper towel. Dip the tip of the chopstick into the glue, then dab the glue on the surface. Pick up a crystal with the tweezers and carefully place it on the glue. Gently tap it into place with the tweezers so it is firmly in place. Continue the process until the piece is finished.

Tips and variations: You can create designs of different colors or create shapes (lips, flowers, dollar sign, peace sign, heart, etc). Make a small evening bag to match by adding a chain and the crystals to a small cigarette case or wood box. Use the crystals for wedding accessories, such as on shoes, bridal gifts or a floral bouquet. Always sketch your design before gluing because the crystals are expensive. If you want a more affordable version, use acrylic gems, but the finished item won't look as stunning.


***
CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!

Other links:
STORE * BOOK * T-SHIRTS * MY SPACE * FLICKR

* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: wearable art

There's no need to wait until the Fourth of July to show your patriotic spirit. The bold colors of red, white and blue have become a year-round staple in handcrafts and home decor. This fabric collage is a simple yet strong way to dive into the excitement.
An enticing aspect is that you can modify this project for all skill levels, because it is based on mixing and matching fabric shapes to form a dimensional and devotional statement.
Even if you don't own a sewing machine, you can tackle this project using a hot glue gun or fabric glue stick. Consider it your loyal crafting duty.

Patriotic Fabric Collage
SUPPLIES:
* Paper and pen
* Scissors
* Assorted square and rectangle pieces of scraps of fabric in various sizes
* 8- by 10-inch piece of fabric
* Assorted strips of trim
* Fabric glue stick
* Sewing machine
* Assorted colors of threads
* Assorted buttons or sequins (optional)
* Iron
* 8- by 10-inch picture frame with glass
DIRECTIONS: On a piece of paper, draw a star or whatever other shapes you want to include on your project. Cut them out and use them as a template on the fabric scraps, and cut out those shapes. Lay the large piece of fabric on a flat surface and begin to assemble the collage. Arrange and rearrange the shapes and trim to your liking. When you find a design you like, use the fabric glue stick to tack it down. Use contrasting colored thread to sew the pieces to each other. Add small accents by sewing on buttons or sequins (if desired). When completely finished, iron. Show off your new fabric collage by framing it under glass.
VARIATION: Sew a lip at the top of your collage, slide a dowel through and attach string for a hanging wall piece.
* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: summer/4th of July

The Fourth of July is the most picnic-friendly day of the year. However, before you bust out the barbecue sauce, hot wings and other finger-licking good entrees, have plenty of soap nearby. Sticky fingers can ruin a party in no time. These dimensional star soaps made from "melt and pour" glycerin not only will do the trick but also will add a layer of fun to your patriotic festivities.
White and clear glycerin, molds, dyes and scents are available at local craft stores.

STAR-SPANGLED SOAP
SUPPLIES:
* Paper towel
* Petroleum jelly
* Plastic soap-bar molds
* Large knife
* 1 pound of "melt and pour" clear glycerin soap
* 1 pound of "melt and pour" white glycerin soap
* Short glass measuring pitcher
* Soap dye in red and blue
* Spoon or Popsicle stick
* Soap scent (optional)
* Star-shaped soap log
DIRECTIONS: Use the paper towel and petroleum jelly to line the inside of the molds for easy removal of the soap. Cut the glycerin into 1-inch cubes. Put four cubes of the clear glycerin in the pitcher and melt in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Remove and stir. Add five to six drops of red color and stir again until smooth. Add a couple drops of soap scent, if desired. Pour the mixture into the molds at a 1/3 level. Let set several minutes, until firm. Rinse the pitcher until all of the red soap is removed. Put in four cubes of the white glycerin and repeat melting process. Pour the mixture on top of the red and let set until firm. Repeat process with another layer of clear glycerin tinted with blue dye. When the soaps are fully set, turn over the mold and pop them out. Makes four bars.
Slice the star-shaped soap log into 1/4-inch slices. Add a dab of melted glycerin to the top of the layered soap bars and then place a white star on top. Hold in place until it sets.
TIPS: Use extreme caution, as melted soap is hot. Always clean the container before melting new glycerin. Adding red coloring to white glycerin will result in a deep fuchsia color, as opposed to bright red. Use the leftover glycerin to make theme soaps for other upcoming events or parties.
VARIATIONS: Create chunky soap by pouring solid color bars and then cutting them into squares. Lay them in the mold and then pour melted clear glycerin over the top. The star molds can be used to insert inside the soap bar molds for another type of dimensional effect.
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* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: beauty, summer/4th of July