(Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic, 2006)

Visualization is the key with this bold bauble bracelet that looks just like frozen ice cubes.

Supplies: Plastic ice cube tray, Easy Cast resin, blue resin coloring, gold micro stars, paper cup, chopstick for stirring, disposable measuring cup, needle nose pliers, drill, jump rings, bracelet clasp.

Directions: Mix the resin according to package directions (using cup, chopstick and measuring cup) and pour an approximately 1/4-inch layer into dry ice cube tray compartments. Sprinkle in gold stars. Let set for four hours. Mix up a new batch of resin, but this time add one drop of blue resin coloring. Dab on a thin layer on each cube. Keep it thin, because it is just to give it a faint blue tinge from behind. Let cure for 24 hours. Pop the pieces out of the tray. On each side, drill a hole at an angle, coming out the bottom. Using pliers, insert a jump ring and connect the pieces. Attach bracelet clasp.

Note: After you've finished, do not use this ice cube tray to make real ice.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, summer/4th of July, wearable art

(Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic, 2006)

Beach towels may be on clearance at the store, but we're still diving into the pool at every opportunity. Here's a way to take one of those jumbo towels and transform it into a functional (and very cute) tote bag.

Supplies: 40- by 70-inch beach towel with wide trim, pinking shears, sewing machine, thread, pins.

Directions: Fold the towel lengthwise. Cut the trim off one end of the towel and set aside, this will be the handles of the bag. At the other end, keep the trim (this is the bottom of the bag) and cut about 12 inches up (this is the top of the bag). Toss aside the excess, you will not need it. Unfold the towel and hem the raw edge by using the zigzag function on your sewing machine (to prevent fraying). Sew again with a regular stitch. Fold the towel again in the same fashion and sew the sides and bottom. Using the trim from the other end, cut it in half so you have two straps. Stitch the raw ends using the zigzag function. Sew one strip on the inside of each side of the bag so you end up with two handles.

Note: Use the excess towel to make another tote!

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: summer/4th of July, wearable art

(Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic, 2006)

If you don't have time to eat the creamy stuff, you can at least wear it. Color copy the front of your favorite icy sweet treat (Italian ice, Mexican paletas, Orange Dreamsicle) onto fabric paper, affix it to a tank and you are good to go.

Supplies:

1 box of ice cream treats
1 sheet of fabric paper
1 sheet of HeatnBond fabric transfer
1 bottle of fabric squeeze paint
Iron

Directions: Using the high-resolution setting, color copy the front of the box onto a sheet of fabric paper, either at your local copy center or using your inkjet printer. Cut out the shape of the image, as well as a piece of HeatnBond to match. Iron the two pieces together, remove the protective backing, set in place on the tank and iron in place. Refer to HeatnBond package directions for specifics. Let cool. Use fabric squeeze paint to add small dots to outline the image on the shirt for durability.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: summer/4th of July, wearable art

(Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic, 2006)

This mask takes minutes to make and is a luscious treat for tired eyes. This little baby goes in the fridge as well, so it will be chilly to the touch. After a hard day at work or working on the lawn, lie down and plop it over your eyes for ultimate relaxation.

Supplies:
2 pieces of cotton fabric, each 6 by 3 inches
Straight pins
Pinking shears
Sewing machine or needle and thread
1 cup of rice
Essential oil (if desired)

Directions: Line up the two pieces of fabric, right side out, and pin around three sides. Sew with straight stitch around the three sides, removing pins as you go. Pour in rice and sew up the top. Sew another seam around the whole mask. Use the pinking shears to trim the excess fabric around the edges. Store mask in freezer or fridge.

Variation: When adding rice, add one to two drops of essential oil. Experiment with different fabrics such as satin or ultra suede, to see which you like best. Make several bags so you can rotate them.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: beauty, summer/4th of July, wearable art

Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic

This is a must-have to take with you on road trips and even shopping trips. After you complete this project, store the bottle in the fridge or an ice chest. Use it to mist your skin for a sharp and tingly sensation.

Supplies:
1 new travel-size spray bottle
Distilled water
Essential oil of choice (lavender is nice!)
E6000 industrial-strength adhesive
1 package of Austrian crystals
Chopstick or toothpick

Directions: Using the toothpick or chopstick, dab the end in the glue and make random dots around the outside of the bottle. Apply the crystals, one by one, over the glue. Let dry. Fill bottle with water and add one to two drops of essential oil of your choice. Shake. Keep in the refrigerator to keep cool. To use, lightly mist face and arms for a tingly sensation.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: beauty, inside, summer/4th of July

First of all, this picture does not do justice to this project. Trust me. I took a barstool and used a star stencil and used wet paint and micro glitter to create a full-on disco/rock star look. I topped it off with a layer of Envirotex Lite (I'm addcited to this stuff, I'd coat my kids in it if they'd let me!).



Things that make me sad: Poverty. Crime. Undecorated barstools.

That last one is an easy fix. Barstools are so inexpensive and offer a slick, smooth surface to embellish. Paint and decoupage are the easiest options, but I say take it to the next level and cover the seat in an edgy glittered design. I went with a rock and roll theme, using stark color combinations of red, black and silver. However, you can use the process to fit whatever décor you prefer. The key to this idea is to find an image or stencil that is clean so you can color the open areas with glitter. A coat of resin will seal it forever and make you feel like the superstar you are.
Rock star glittered barstool
Supplies


• Wood barstool
• Spray paint
• Stencil or transfer paper with pattern (if desired)
• Pencil
• Assorted brushes
• Assorted paints
• Assorted colors of glitter that match the paint colors
• 1 package of Envirotex Lite (2 part mixture)
• Mixing cup, paper cup, chopstick, straw (needed to mix the above)
• Mask
• Rubber gloves

Directions: Spray paint the base of the barstool in the desired color and let dry.

Lay stencil or transfer paper pattern on top of barstool seat and use the pencil to draw out the pattern.

Working on one section at a time, use a paintbrush to color in the section. Make sure to use a paint color that matches the glitter.

Generously sprinkle the glitter on the wet paint. Tap off excess. Let dry. Continue the process for the rest of the seat. After it is completely dry, it's time to add the Envirotex Lite to the seat.

Wear the mask and gloves. Work outside, or in the garage, because the Envirotex Lite is stinky. Line your work area with wax paper, so the liquid will not get on the floor. Measure exactly 1/4 cup of each part of the Envirotex Lite and pour into the paper cup. Use the chopstick to stir vigorously for one minute until you see a lot of small bubbles in the mixture. Pour the mixture on the center of the seat and tip the barstool to move the liquid where you want it. For hard to reach areas, use your fingers to "push" the liquid around the seat. Be careful not to have too much liquid at the edge, otherwise it will drip. If there is excess, use your finger to wipe it away. Look closely at the liquid on the seat, and if there are air bubbles, point the straw at them and lightly blow until they pop. Leave the barstool outside in a covered area (away from flying insects!) and let it set for 24 hours before touching.

Tips and variations: To save time, start with a barstool that is already black. The most important key to working with Envirotex Lite is to use exact measurements, and thoroughly mix it. If you don't, the mixture will not cure properly. If you like your barstools, make an end table to match.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside

Today it was 117 degrees here in Phoenix. Any little bit helps when it comes to trying to keep cool. Even sipping from frosty, etched glasses like this. A little bit of painter's tape, stickers and a jar of Armour Etch and you are set to go!

These days, there are so many art supplies and idea books, anyone can dive into the world of design. I'm here to show you how. I've always embraced the "Why buy it when you can make it?" mind-set and I'm not alone. According to the Craft and Hobby Association, one out of every four people has tried a do-it-yourself project in the past year. That's a lot of craftiness.

That's why I'm excited to bring this column back to The Republic's Home section, where it launched in 1999. I have yet to run out of ideas (my family can vouch for that) and I'm excited to share them with you. In the coming months, we'll dive into everything from furniture overhauls to red carpet-ready jewelry, paper arts and everything else the artsy universe has to offer.

First up: an easy recipe for frosty designer glassware. You can score a set of glasses at the discount department store for less than $5 and make them your own using one jar of etching cream. For a bohemian look, visit a swap meet or thrift center, buy assorted vintage glasses and use one stenciled theme to tie them all together. If you want a classier look, visit a high-end housewares store and peek at their offerings for inspiration. This project also works great as a wedding, shower or housewarming gift because you can design a set to fit the person.
Custom Frosty Glassware
Supplies
• Assorted drinking glasses
• Blue painter's tape
• 1 package of round labels (office-supply section)
• 1 pair of plastic gloves
• 1 small brush
• 1 jar of etching cream (found at the craft store)
• Chopstick or toothpick
• E6000 extra strength adhesive
• 1 bag of 6mm crystals

Directions: Wash and dry the glasses. Start with one glass. Apply a band of blue painter's tape around the rim. Add labels randomly around the outer surface of the glass. Press all the edges down firmly, which will prevent the etching cream from seeping under the label. Wearing the gloves, use the brush to apply a thick layer of the etching cream in vertical strokes all around the glass. Let sit for 10 minutes, rinse and remove the labels. Dry the glass. Apply a new set of labels in the same spots. This time, apply the cream horizontally around the glass. Let it sit for 10 minutes, rinse and remove labels. If there are any "bald" spots of the cream, repeat the process and apply cream vertically. The glass should look evenly etched with clean polka dots. For the finishing touch, dab the end of a chopstick or toothpick in the adhesive and make a small dot on the glass. Pick up a crystal and set it on the adhesive. Continue as desired all over the glass. These glasses will even hold up in the dishwasher.

Variations and tips: Use painter's tapes in different widths to create the look of stripes. Put words on your glasses by printing them in large fonts on sticker paper, cutting the letters out with a craft knife and using the remaining paper as a stencil for the cream. Aside from drinking glasses, you also can etch mirrors, pitchers, vases, salt and pepper shakers or other glass objects. For more color accents, use porcelain paint or colored crystals.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, summer/4th of July

Have craft supplies, will travel. Just because you are going on vacation doesn't mean you have to leave your scissors and glue stick at home. Pack a thin minicrafting kit so you can whip up custom greeting cards to send to friends and family back home. As you buy your postcards, take a minute (honest, that's all the time this project will take) and glue them to the front of blank cards so you have more room to share your getaway adventures. This project is a great way to pass the time on the road and is mess-free. To make it even speedier, prep the blank cards with scrapbook paper and foam core before leaving on your trip.
Postcard greetings
Supplies
Postcards
Blank notecards (jumbo size)
Scrapbook paper
Glue stick
Thin sheet of foam core
Scissors

Directions: Cut the scrapbook paper to fit the cover of the card. Affix in place with the glue stick. To add a lifted "dimension" to the card's look, cut a 1- by 3-inch piece of foam core and glue it in the center. Trim the white edges from the postcard and glue to the foam core. You can embellish with eyelets, decorative staples, brads, small crystals, ribbon and rubber stamps.

Variation: Make a set of cards, wrap them in a ribbon and give them as a gift. Instead of using them as cards, insert in matted frames and hang as wall art. Look for gift shops that carry boxes of postcards. That way all the cards will have a similar theme.



AND - if you like the postcards (Romance Pulp Postcard Box) I used, here is where you can buy them!
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, summer/4th of July

I just can't throw anything away. Like gift cards. I made these a while back. They are gift cards I had from the holidays and I wrapped paper around them and added some folded paper and there ya go - a thin, little pocket book to record phone numbers, or crafty ideas that pop in yourhead while you are shopping at the hardware store!
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, holiday

In the heat of packing boxes today, I ran out of bubble wrap. Argh! I hate it when that happens. It's almost as bad as not being able to squeeze out that last little drop of "Jubilee Green" paint from bottle when you are in the middle of juicing up a jewelry box or something!! Anyway, we don't get the newspaper anymore and I absolutely have to go to the post office today. What's a crafty chica to do?

I noticed one thing we do have a lot of are plastic grocery shopping bags. So I fiddled with them and stumbled across the BEST packing method EVER in the history of La Casa Murillo. I'm so proud and excited, I'm sharing the goods. Read on! If you do a lot of mailing for your business, this is a trick that will come in handy!

Step One: You take an otherwise boring, empty plastic grocery bag.


Step Two: Open it and tie the handles in a tight knot, so it is filled with air, kinda like a plastic pillow.


Step Three: Use it as packing material for your boxes! It is light weight and you can squish it however you need it. Awesome, no?


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: holiday

Have you ever whipped up a batch of salsa and flinched when it was time to toss out the chili can? Especially if it has a pretty label, like this? Don't do it! Salvage it and morph it into a candle holder! Imagine how cute this will look in your kitchen or outdoor patio. If you want more light to show through, you can drill holes around the body of it. These would also work cute as covers on patio lights. Maybe a little heavy, but it's worth checking out.

To make these, you drill holes around the top and hang chains from them (use jump rings to connect). you can add beads to the chain links, or whatever you want. Gather the loose ends up at the top and connect to a larger ring for hanging. If you can't find any cool chili cans, print out some pictures or vintage food labels and attach them around a small tomato sauce can.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: garden, lights, outdoors

I made this shrine from all kinds of Americana knick-knacks and assembled them into a California wine crate. Basically, to make it you need to:

Paint your wine crate, line the back of it with fabric (I went with red w/ white stars). Next you want to add flat objects to the sides. Magnets (glue them on) work perfect for this! In the center I used a note holder and inserted a picture to serve as my focal point, and then I continued to add other objects around it. I even added some eye screws at the inside top so I could have Elvis's glittery blue jacket dangling! I also placed several miniature toys and pictures. On the outside top, I glued down what used to be holiday ornaments. Oh, I almost forgot - I painted some wood stars and hearts and sprinkled them throughout. This is my version of "folksy", therefore I really didn't use any glitter, except for what might be in the objects (like the jacket). If you look close at this piece, you will see all kinds of things like perfume bottles, Mardi Gras beads, a Tabasco sauce bottle and a button from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Click on the picture for a bigger view.

Let's talk glues. I used several. I mostly used hot glue, but sometimes hot glue is not strong enough to hold heavy objects. In that case, I put a dab of E6000, and then put a dab og hot glue and it worked as yummy as hot apple pie with whipped cream. Dang! speaking of apple pie, I should have included that in there somewhere...Maybe I can go through a McDonald's drive-thru and buy a mini-apple pie, come home and eat it while smiling at my Americana Folk Art Shrine.

Happy 4th of July to you!
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, home decor, inside, recycled