Patrick and I are so slammed with orders right now it is not even funny. We seriously need to hire some help to keep up with everything. It's difficult because I'm in the mood to create new things, but customer orders come first. Luckily, I had an opportunity to slip in a little sumpin' sumpin' the other day. I had to pose for a photo shoot for a new ad campaign I'm doing for Duncan Crafts and I needed some serious shoe help. But not any foot covers would do.

Recently I made some Crafty Chica collage paper and have been using it in my shrine making classes. So far, my students love it. I'm not sure if I will be selling it yet, or just keeping it to my own work. Meanwhile, I used it to funk up a pair of heels. I bought these shoes (when they were blank) at a thrift store last year. The smooth wood platform heels lured me in. I was going to woodburn them, but opted for tried and true decoupage and I'm glad I did. I used Aleene's Tacky Glue to adhere to paper, and Tulip fabric paint for the band that goes across my foot. I'm going to cover them in a thick coat of varnish next.

Anyway, it felt so good to vary away from mass producing, even if for a couple hours. These are my Christmas shoes and I *heart* 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: holiday, wearable art

(Photo copyright Arizona Republic, 2006)

This is the season for magic, dreams and wishes. Everyone has a secret plan they hope will come to fruition some day. This little bracelet will help. The idea is to give the bracelet to someone and tell the person to wish upon the star and then tie the bracelet around the wrist or ankle. When the thread wears down and breaks, the star charm will be released into the universe and soon the recipient's wish will come true!

Supplies:

1 long piece of thread (about 24 inches)
1 star charm
1 piece of colorful card stock with the directions written on it
Small bracelet gift box
Craft paint

Directions: Paint and decorate the box and set aside to dry. Double the thread and slide on the charm. Leave the ends open so the person can tie it on. Place the bracelet in the box with the directions.

Tip: Instead of just one bracelet, give your friend two so they can pass one on as well. Better yet, give them several to use throughout the month.

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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, wearable art

This podcast offers a few nifty ideas for the season.

CLICK HERE to listen to this show.
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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, podcasts

(Photo: Carlos Chavez, The Arizona Republic, copyright 2006)

HERE ARE THE DIRECTIONS. I got the cool picture fromArtChixStudio. Make sure to visit them to see all the other fabulous collage sheets they have!!
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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

(Photo: Jill Richards, The Arizona Republic, copyright 2006)

Sometimes hand-painted and decoupaged purses are too pretty to actually use, which is why I was so excited to find the Changeable Art Purse by Pursue Your Art ($29.95, pursueyourart.com). The handbag comes with all kinds of plastic sleeves to slip in artwork or assorted photos. This is a great gift for someone who is always creating something new, or for someone who is just testing the crafty waters; you can embellish as much or as little as you like.

Supplies:

1 Changeable Art Purse
Blank artist trading cards
Decorative paper or fabric
Glue sticks
Paper embellishments: rub-on letters, stickers, brads, glitter, sequins, etc.
Vintage images came from ArtChixStudio.com.

Directions: Think of a theme for your purse, and create. Using a glue stick, line the cards with your favorite paper or fabric. Continue to decorate the cards using the embellishments. While they are drying, remove the template from the purse and cut a piece of fabric or paper to fit it. Slip it in the purse to act as the lining. Insert the artist trading cards in the pockets.

It looks like this before you decorate it:

Here is where you order one!

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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, wearable art

(Photo: Jill Richards, The Arizona Republic, copyright 2006)

Superheroes are flying high these days, so why not spread around some of that positive energy? Visit your local post office and pick up a set of DC Comics Super Heroes stamps and use them to make a set of ornaments that pack a punch. If you aren't into the whole cape and mask shtick, use other stamp sets such as baseball, Disney or movie stars (shop.usps.com). You also can create a personalized look by shrinking family photos.

Supplies:
1 box of large colored glass ornaments
Assorted commemorative postage stamps
White craft glue
Microfine glitter
Craft brush
Piece of paper
Acrylic paint

Directions: Affix the stamp to the center of the bulb. Use the glue to make it stick better. Remove any excess glue. Paint a light coat of white craft glue around the edges of the stamp. Working over a piece of paper to catch the overflow, pour the glitter over the wet glue, tap off the excess and let dry. Add dots or other designs of acrylic paint around the stamp as desired.

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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

(Photo: Jill Richards, The Arizona Republic, copyright 2006)

Forget the main course; snacks are where it's at. But you can't put them in just any old dish. Here is a super-frosty method to make serving bowls that look just like giant snowballs.

Supplies:

Glass or plastic bowls in graduated sizes
Plastic wrap
Celluclay instant papier-mâché
White paint
Brush-on glitter varnish
Water-based (non-toxic) brush-on clear varnish

Directions: Cover the outside of the bowls with plastic wrap and place upside down. Mix Celluclay according to package directions and cover the outside of the bowls. Use your hands to make a splotchy effect so it looks like snow. Let dry and add a second layer so you will have a thick, sturdy bowl. Let dry for 24 hours, remove bowl and peel off the plastic. If the inside looks moist at all, let it dry out. Paint the bowls white and let dry. Add two coats of glitter varnish, letting dry between each one. Finish with a coat of the non-glitter varnish. Let the bowls air dry for 48 hours before using for dry snacks such as pretzels, hard candies, popcorn, etc. After use, wipe with a damp cloth.

Tips: For more dazzle, right after you paint the outside of the bowls, sprinkle white translucent glitter on. Tap off excess. Seal with spray varnish.


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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

(Photo: Jill Richards, The Arizona Republic, copyright 2006)

Word messages are a happy way to spread positive cheer, don't you think? Especially when they are delivered in glitter. This project is filled with good intention because you choose a favorite uplifting phrase and use these sparkle-licious Twinkle Type Letters ($9.99) from K & Co. to relay it. Use the finished piece on your front door, the tree, a wall or even a desk.

1 canvas
1 box of Twinkle Type Letters
Hot glue
Craft paint
Brush
Dremel tool
2 eye hooks
Matching ribbon

Directions: Paint the canvas in your desired color and let dry. Choose your phrase and remove the letters from the box to make sure you have what you need. Arrange the word or phrase on the canvas. If you don't have enough room, use a larger canvas, or use two canvases and break up the phrase. Use hot glue to affix the letters. Drill two holes at the top and add eye hooks, thread the ribbon through, tie at one end and hang.

Tips: You can make your own glitter letters with chipboard letters, white craft glue and microfine glitter. Use an oval canvas for use as a table centerpiece.



Since we are talking glitter letters, today I got a package from Making Memories and they have glitter fever too! Check out these wickedly delicious Shimmer Kits.



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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, home decor

This show is all about sending good vibes into the universe, as well as a few easy crafty ideas for la familia.

The projects mentioned in this podcast can be found on my web site, CraftyChica.com.

CLICK HERE to listen to show 20.

*~Peace, love and glitter from Crafty Chica!*~
Subscribe to Crafty Chica Podcast


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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: podcasts

Looking for ideas from previous years? So much to do in so little time! Ditch the popcorn garland already. Try these holiday projects instead!

Mini Mirror Garland
Awesome Advent Calendar

Party Poppers
Glittered Boxes and Ornaments


A Guide to Holiday Crafting
Gifts for the Crafter
Make it a Special Crafty Season
Tips for the Holiday Crafter


Andes Mint Tree
Glittered Vases

Ornament Centerpiece
Crystal Picture Ornaments

Hanging Card Holder
Embossed Cards
Matchbox Ornaments
Snickers Tree
Corn Husk Wreath
Elegant Silver Vases


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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 *

These laminated placemats are a great way to liven up your turkey meal! The idea is to create a scrapbook layout and then make copies, laminate and use.

The beauty of Thanksgiving is that it's not about shopping, gifts or blinking lawn ornaments. It's about eating, family bonding and more eating. Make that bonding more entertaining by adding a personal touch to your table setting with these family scrapbook place mats. Incorporate pictures, phrases and, best of all, a list of family trivia questions that is sure to bring up those classic side-splitting memories of turkey dinners from years past. They'll also work wonders for those who have ho-hum feasts that could use a bit of fun. This idea works great for any holiday and even in between seasons. It's just a matter of creating a collage of your favorite pictures, color copying it and sealing it with lamination. You can take a shortcut and color copy scrapbook pages you already have or use the kids' school artwork.

Thanksgiving Trivia Placemats
Double-side tape or glue stick

1 piece of patterned scrapbook paper, 12 inches by 10 inches

1 piece of heavy paper, 11 inches by 17 inches

Printout of fun family trivia questions that you write

Color copies of family photos

Paper frames for the photos

Assorted embellishments: decorated tags, stickers, die cuts, etc.

Directions: Tape or glue the patterned scrapbook paper onto the heavy paper, leaving a border all the way around. Affix the trivia questions to the other side, also leaving a border. Attach the photos and top with paper frames. Add embellishments in the open areas. When finished, take the mat to your neighborhood copy center and have it color copied and then laminated. Make as many copies as needed.

Variations: You don't have to laminate the place mat, but if you do, your guests will be able to take it home as a keepsake. Add speech bubbles with funny sayings to the photos. Repeat he process to create a two-sided place mat, or use black-and-white drawings with no lamination so kids can color.

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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 *

This Thursday is more than just about turkey and cranberry sauce. It's about "giving thanks", remember? So spread that reminder message at the dinner table by whipping up some of these lovely napkins rings! You don't have to be a pro designer or artist to put together some soulful accents; and to prove that, here is a crafty recipe for beaded napkin rings that come with a heartfelt message.

Stringing beads on memory wire is a standard technique, but the extra touch is a dangling wood disc adorned with a personalized message or photo for your guests. You can use inspiring quotes, family trivia or photos, and place one napkin ring at each setting. After the meal, each person can take the napkin ring home and attach it around a small ivy bowl, a pillar candle or wear it as a bracelet. Now that's something to be thankful for!

Be Thankful Napkin Rings

Supplies:
1 package of medium memory wire (bracelet memory wire)
1 pair of needle nose pliers
1 pair of wire nippers
1 package of small beads
Assorted beads in size, color, shapes, etc.
1 package of small wood discs (dime size)
Assorted face photos of family members, or phrases printed from your computer
White craft glue
Handheld drill
12 millimeter jump rings

Directions: Using the nippers, cut the memory wire into single rings; you can have the ends overlap if you like. Grip the end of one of the rings and use the pliers to bend the raw end into a tiny loop. This is so your beads won't slide off and so the end won't snag on anything. Slide one of the small beads onto the end of the ring. Now add the other beads to fill up the ring, leaving a 1-centimeter tail at the end. Slide on another small bead and create another tiny loop with the pliers. Glue the picture onto the wood disc, drill a small hole at top, insert jump ring and attach to the center of the beaded napkin ring.

Variations: Instead of a wood disc, stamp an initial into a small circle of polymer clay. You can also use rubber stamps to decorate the disc, or fancy papers. Instead of words, you can glue a picture of the face of each person and use as the place markers. If you don't have time to make the discs, add a dangling charm.

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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, other holidays, Thanksgiving

The TV set is a crafter's best friend when it comes to those marathon painting or knitting sessions. You know the ones - when you absolutely must finish a project before you turn in for the night? I have a roster of shows that I watch for this reason. They serve as great background noise while I paint, sew, bead or draw. However, there's one weekly primetime event that I love so much, I ditch the craft room altogether. Every Thursday you'll find me lounging on the living room couch,100% devoted to Ugly Betty. Is it a crime that I secretly want that Guadalajara poncho? I know we're supposed to gawk at Betty's frumpy frocks, but I can't help but adore her necklace too — so much that I had to make my own version and share it with you.
First of all, credit for the original design goes to Jennifer Parrish of ParrishRelics.com. The Stoneham, Massachusetts jewelry designer made and supplied the faux pearl embellished “B” necklace for Ugly Betty star, America Ferrera . It is hand-sculpted, twice fired and finished with four different glazes. Parrish's It's replica of a piece worn by Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's 2nd wife and mother of Elizabeth I. You can order your own for $172 from the online store, or give this crafty idea a try. Ugly Betty
airs at 7 p.m., Thursdays on ABC.

Ugly Betty inspired necklace
Supplies:
Cardstock, pencil, scissors
Craft knife
Polymer clay
Industrial strength craft glue
Acrylic craft paint in gold and black
Eye pins
Assorted beads
Soft Flex wire
Crimp beads
2 jump rings
Necklace clasp
Needle nose pliers

Directions: Cut a strand of wire long enough so you can double it to be at your desired length. At one end, holding two strands of the wire, feed on a crimp bead. Loop the wire ends through the crimp bead to make a loop at the end so you can attach a jump ring later. Use the needle nose pliers to flatten the crimp bead. Begin to add the beads on the double strand of
wire. When finished, close off the other end by repeating the crimping process. Add a jump ring at each end, and the clasp.
To make the initial, cut a piece of cardstock measuring 1-1/2-inch square. Draw out the letter in the square and cut out. Take gumball-sized piece of the clay and flatten it (about the thickness of a pancake). Place the cardstock template on it and use the craft knife to cut out the shape of the letter. Use your fingers to smooth the edges. Snip the eye pins to about 1/4 of an inch and insert them at the bottom of the letter. Add an eye pin at the top of the letter. If you have a letter that is “open” at the top (like a “K”), glue one on each side, or glue a jump ring to the back of the necklace later. Bake in oven according to package directions. Let cool. One at a time, remove the eye pins, add a drop of glue and insert back into each hole. Repeat for all the eye pins. Let dry. Paint the letter gold, let dry and lightly rub on black paint around the edges. Use your finger to rub in more gold, so it has an antique finish. Use more eye pins to add dangling beads to the eye pins
glued at the bottom of the letter. Add a jump ring to attach the letter to the strand of beads.

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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

Life is too short to have boring jars around the house. Dress 'em up with some of these soldered charms!

Here are the directions!

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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