"Kathy Cano Murillo is a crafty mama whose projects are as different from Martha's tastefully done handiwork as Carmen Miranda is from Barbara Bush."
– BUST Magazine
The Crafty Chica DIY Project Library: a collection of fabulous handmade ideas by Kathy Cano-Murillo, the Crafty Chica!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
How to Make a Dia de los Muertos Altar
My sister made this ofrenda to Barry White and she added all the basic elements for Dia de los Muertos. Over at http://dead.azcentral.com, click HERE to see an interactive display!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 9:54 PM
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Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Cycle of Life Face Painting
Many schools are teaching students about Dia de los Muertos and are on the hunt for cool crafty ideas. This is a good one that is often found at many muertos fiestas - face painting!
But we're not talking Disney characters or sports logos. This is much more meaningful. This is a chance to explain about the cycle of life and how Dia de los Muertos relates to it.
Using face paint found at the costume store, paint half of a face like a sugar skull and leave the other half alone. This represents that in this life or the next we will always be "alive", our spirit is eternal! I've seen all kinds of faces painted in this style and it is inspiring to see the variations on how the skull portion is decorated. You can use black and white, or lots of color and even glitter!
If you are a painter, why not volunteer at a local school or local muertos fiesta and paint faces? Or at least have your face painted, it's fun. It tickles!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:38 AM
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Dia de los Muertos Shrine Contest!
Crafty Chica Challenge: Create a Day of the Dead Shrine
CRAFT and iLoveToCreate.com have teamed up to present to you the Crafty Chica Challenge: Create a Day of the Dead Shrine! Day of the Dead (or Día de los Muertos in Spanish) is a holiday celebrated in Mexico as well as by many in the United States on November 2nd. Day of the Dead is a holiday to remember loved ones who have passed, and includes many characteristic decorations such as skeleton figurines, candy skulls, marigolds and much more. For this challenge, we ask you to create your own Day of the Dead Shrine and share it with us. This Crafty Chica Challenge will run for 4 weeks, and the Prize winners will be announced on Monday, November 2nd. Deadline for entries is 11:59 p.m. PDT October 28, 2009. Due to the personal nature of these Day of the Dead Shrines, the winner will be selected via drawing. There will be one (1) grandprize winner, and three (3) runners-up.
The Grand Prize is a Crafty Chica gift basket, an advanced copy of the Crafty Chica’s first novel “Waking Up in the Land of Glitter” and a $100 gift certificate to shop at the Crafty Chica’s store, ChicanoPopArt.com
The Runner-up Prize is a Crafty Chica gift basket as well as a $25 gift certificate to the MakerShed.
To enter this Crafty Chica Challenge, please submit photos of your shrine to the Crafty Chica Challenge Flickr group. Enter in a 250 word or less description of what your shrine represents and what materials were used in its creation.
If you're joining in on the contest, here's the code for the badge to display on your site or blog.
This promotion is intended for play and participation in the United States only and shall be construed and evaluated according to the laws of the United States. Please do not participate if you are not a legal resident of the United States and located in the United States at the time of entry.
Important: Please read these rules before entering the Crafty Chica Challenge (the "Contest") sponsored by CRAFT and ILovetoCreate.com (the “Sponsors”). By submitting your projects to the Crafty Chica Challenge Flickr group, you agree to be bound by these Official Rules.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING. CONTEST OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WHO ARE EITHER OF THE AGE OF MAJORITY IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE AT THE TIME OF ENTRY (19 OR OLDER IN AL AND NE, 18 OR OLDER IN ALL OTHER STATES). VOID OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES AND WHERE OTHERWISE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
Official Rules: Crafty Chica Challenge
1. How to Enter: To enter the Contest, submit photos of your shrine to the Crafty Chica Challenge Flickr group. Include a 250 word or less description of what your shrine represents, and what materials were used in its creation.
Contest begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on October 1, 2009 and will end at 11:59 p.m. PDT on October 28, 2009 (the “Contest Period”). All entries must be received during the Contest Period to be eligible. You may enter as many times as you wish, but please do not submit duplicate projects. Sponsors are not responsible for retaining archives of any projects submitted. Email addresses obtained through the Contest will only be used by Sponsors to notify the winners and participants of the contest results.
By submitting an entry, you grant Sponsors and its agents the irrevocable and perpetual nonexclusive right to print, publish, reproduce, distribute, modify, create derivative works from, promote, and provide access to any such Contest entry, in all media throughout the world, and without consideration to you. Projects: must be the original work of the entrant; may not have won previous awards; may not have been published previously; must not infringe third-party rights, and must be suitable for publication (i.e., may not be obscene or indecent). By submitting an entry, you represent and warrant: that you are the sole owner of all rights in and to the materials that constitute your entry; that your entry is your original work; and that your entry does not violate laws prohibiting copyright infringement, defamation, misuse of trade secrets, invasion of privacy, or other laws. You agree to confirm in writing your grant of rights to Sponsors and/or the above warranties as a condition to receiving a prize in the event you are eligible to receive a prize.
2. Winner Selection: Winner selection for the Grand Prize, and 3 (three) Runners-up will be based upon a random drawing.
Winners will be notified no later than Monday, November 2, 2009. The decisions of the prizewinners will be final and binding on all matters relating to the Contest. Limit one prize per household.
3. Prizes: One Grand Prize Winner three Runner-up Winners will be selected by The Crafty Chica (Kathy Cano-Murillo by drawing. The Grand Prize is a Crafty Chica gift basket, an advanced copy of the Crafty Chica’s first novel “Waking Up in the Land of Glitter” and a $100 gift certificate to shop at the Crafty Chica’s store, ChicanoPopArt.com
The Runner-up Prize is a Crafty Chica gift basket as well as a $25 gift certificate to the MakerShed.
Estimated total value of all prizes: US $354.66. All prizes will be awarded, provided they are properly claimed.
4. Winner Notification: Each Prizewinner will be notified by e-mail or Flickr mail by Monday, November 2, 2009. Sponsors are not responsible for any change of entrant’s e-mail address. Any prize or prize notification returned as undeliverable or otherwise not claimed within seven (7) days after notification of prize award will be forfeited and awarded to an alternate prizewinner. Prizes are not transferable. No cash redemptions. No substitutions or exchanges of the prize will be permitted, except that Sponsors reserve the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value for any prize that becomes unavailable. The prizes are awarded "AS IS" and WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, express or implied, (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE). ACCEPTANCE OR USE OF PRIZE IS AT THE WINNER'S OWN RISK.
5. Sponsors and any of their parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, professional advisors, employees, and agencies will not be responsible for (1) any late, lost, or misrouted entries or errors in transmission; (2) any disruptions to Internet connection, injuries, losses, or damages caused by events beyond the control of Sponsors; or (3) any printing or typographical errors in any materials associated with the Contest.
6. Sponsors and their agencies are not responsible for technical, hardware, software, or telephone malfunctions of any kind and shall not be liable for failed, incorrect, incomplete, inaccurate, garbled, or delayed electronic communications utilized in this Contest which may limit the ability to participate in the Contest. If for any reason, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other cause beyond the control of Sponsors, which corrupts or affects the administration, security, fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of this Contest, the Contest is not capable of being conducted as described in these rules, Sponsors shall have the right, at their sole discretion, to modify and/or cancel the Contest.
7. Eligibility: Contest open to legal residents of the continental United States who are of the age of majority in their state of residence (19 or older in AL and NE, 18 or older in all other states) at the time of entry, or who are between 14 and the age of majority in their state of residence at the time of entry. Any minor who is eligible to receive a prize must submit a parental consent form signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to receiving a prize. Employees of Sponsors, MAKE and/or Microchip Technology Inc., their subsidiaries, divisions, and related companies, and their respective agencies and agents and immediate family members of such are not eligible.
8. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL TAXES ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PRIZE WINNERS. Prizewinners may be required to execute and return an affidavit of eligibility and publicity, liability and other release (and a signed parental consent form, if entrant is an eligible minor) within fifteen (15) days of notification attempt or prize will be forfeited and an alternate prizewinner will be selected.
9. BY ENTERING THE CONTEST OR ACCEPTING A PRIZE, PARTICIPANTS RELEASE SPONSORS AND ANY OF THEIR PARENT COMPANIES, SUBSIDIARIES, AFFILIATES, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AND AGENCIES (COLLECTIVELY, THE "RELEASED PARTIES") FROM ANY LIABILITY WHATSOEVER, AND WAIVE ANY AND ALL CAUSES OF ACTION, FOR ANY CLAIMS, COSTS, INJURIES, LOSSES, OR DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE CONTEST OR ACCEPTANCE, POSSESSION, USE AND/OR MISUSE OF ANY PRIZE (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, CLAIMS, COSTS, INJURIES, LOSSES, AND DAMAGES RELATED TO PERSONAL INJURIES, DEATH, DAMAGE TO OR DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY, RIGHTS OF PUBLICITY OR PRIVACY, DEFAMATION OR PORTRAYAL IN A FALSE LIGHT, WHETHER INTENTIONAL OR UNINTENTIONAL) WHETHER UNDER A THEORY OF CONTRACT, WARRANTY, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE, WHETHER ACTIVE, PASSIVE, OR IMPUTED), STRICT LIABILITY, PRODUCT LIABILITY, CONTRIBUTION, OR ANY OTHER THEORY.
10. Except where prohibited by law, entry into the Contest constitutes permission to use winner's name, likeness, contest submission materials, and/or prize information, without limitation, for any advertising, promotional, or any other purpose related to the Contest or to use of the entry by Sponsors or their agents, without further compensation to, or permission from, the Prizewinner.
12. The Contest will be governed, construed, and interpreted under the laws of the United States. Entrants who violate these Official Rules, tamper with the operation of the Contest, or engage in any conduct that is detrimental to Sponsors, the Contest, or any other entrant (as determined in Sponsors’ sole discretion) are subject to disqualification. By entering, entrants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsors in connection with the Contest, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of State of California, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules (whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction), which would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of California. By entering, entrants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in San Francisco, California.
Sponsors:
Maker Media Division (CRAFT), 1005 Gravenstein Hwy North, Sebastopol, CA 95472.
iLoveToCreate.com, 5673 E. Shields Avenue, Fresno, CA 93727.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:14 AM
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Dia de los Muertos paintings
I recently bought 8 canvases and decided to try and paint one a night. Well, I really got into and did 2-3 a night! My wrist is shot, but it was worth it. It feels so good to stretch out of my normal range. I tried to break old habits and experiment with challenging (to me) techniques. I highly encourage giving it a try!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:08 AM
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Sunday, October 11, 2009
Shimmery Skeleton Shadow Box
Give your home or office a touch of shimmery delight with a shadow box decorated in vibrant Crafty Chica Chunky Glitters! Add images from your favorite Crafty Chica Inspiration Cards for a daily pick-me-up!
Cover work surface with newspaper. Squeeze a puddle of desired color of paint from the Crafty Chica Little Chica Paint Pack onto foil. Basecoat the inside and outside of frame and let dry.
Use a clean paintbrush to coat the inside of the frame (sides and top only) with Aleene’' Original Tacky Glue then immediately pour a layer of glitter over it. Let dry then tap away excess glitter.
Paint desired pattern on the front of the box with colors of choice. Let dry. Working in small sections at a time, cover pattern sections with glue and add glitter to sections as desired. Let dry.
Use handle of brush to add dots of paint on top of glitter for more dimension. Let dry.
Choose one card from the Crafty Chica™ Inspiration Cards™ and cut out images from the card to place in layers within frame (front, middle and back).
Glue the back layer to the inside back of box. Add a bead of glue to the bottom of the second image and hold in place in middle of box until it stands upright. Glue the third image in place in the front of box.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:02 PM
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Mixed Media Collages
Collage canvases are a great way to express yourself and add a pop of color and design to your surroundings. Check out Google images for calacas to use as your focal point. Keep in mind, most images are copyrighted, but you can use them as long as you don't sell them!
Directions: 1. Write a poem, phrase, or random words on the canvas. 2. Coat with a layer of decoupage medium and add a layer of tissue paper, add a coat over the that. Let dry. 3. Add images, stenciled designers, stamped words. 4. Add glitter accents if desired.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 9:16 PM
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Charming Day of the Dead Resin Heart Bracelet
Charming Day of the Dead Bracelet
Designed by Kathy Cano-Murillo
Dia de los Muertos – the Day of the Dead – is a Hispanic holiday dedicated to remembering loved ones who have passed on. Create this Charming Day of the Dead Bracelet with Crafty Chica™ Charms™ and Chunky Glitters™ as a way to honor and celebrate the lives of those you love.
Mix 1/4 cup of each part of the resin according to package instructions.
Pour two heaping teaspoons of Sci Fi Silver Crafty Chica Chunky Glitters into resin and stir until glitter is fully mixed. Pour into desired number of molds. Let set 24 hours until cured.
Once cured, pop hearts out of molds and use a handheld drill to create a hole at the top of each heart.
Cut a 6" piece of wire and using the needle-nose pliers, wrap the wire through the hole in heart several times, leaving a 2 mm loop at the top. Twist the loop several times to create a small hole, turning the heart into a charm. Repeat for all hearts.
Use the jump rings from the Crafty Chica Charm Bracelet Workshop-in-a-Box and 3-in-1 jewelry-making tool to connect hearts and Day of the Dead charms onto the bracelet from the kit.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 8:53 PM
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Dia de los Muertos Felt Flower Headband
Supplies:
1 headband 1 safety pin Assorted sheets of craft felt cut into leaves and circles (different sizes with different scissors to give it more flair) Crafty Chica Charms Liquid Fusion Adhesive Clothes pin
Directions:
1. Arrange your flower into the design you want, glue in place, let dry. 2. Use the safety pin to "scratch" the metal on the back of the charm and on the area on the headband where you will glue the felt. 3. Glue the charm in place in the center of the flower. 4. Glue the flower to the headband, use a clothespin to hold in place while glue dries.
OK, I'm going to go pick my jaw up from the floor from these amazing eggs. (Step one, make the first half of the eggs and fill them)
"I made some panoramic Sugar Skull "Spring" Eggs using my sugar skull recipe and mini original sugar skull molds. I bought the egg molds from Michael's. I made the eggs, scooped them out just like the large sugar skull molds and then made an eyehole before they dried.
I found that if I hollowed them out while in the mold they turned out with much thinner walls than if I scooped them in a couple hours. Anyways, when they were dry, I made up an interior that would be looked at when peeped into... like there's not much room inside, but I put a mini skeleton from Puebla, or a mini sugar skull or one of our original minis that I decorated.
When dry, I close the lid onto the bottom with a bead of white royal icing. It's all done with royal icing in deep colors. We sell the disposable icing bags, meringue powder and the intense food coloring. After they are closed, I use a spoon to make the peep hole a little bigger and nicer round shape. Then, decorate the outside!
I made mini sugar skulls to attach to the top of the egg with a blob of icing. I was told not to call these "Easter Eggs" as some Christians would take offense. But we all know these are awesome Easter Eggs for those who love Day of the Dead or Mexican crafts.
They were such fun to make and turned out so impressive. I used your glitter too, before the icing dried.
I receive your daily art blogs and am constantly amazed how much energy you and your family have. You are so creative. Whenever I get tired of my business, I just think of you circling your house with a glue gun and a big bottle of glitter, looking for something to decorate! You give me inspiration!"
Trivia: When I created the sugar skull recipe using the meringue powder back in 1995, I adapted a recipe for Easter panoramic eggs. Sugar art started in the 14th century in Palermo, Italy as Church altar decorations...probably little sheep and angels... Skulls came about 100 years later. So, there is a connection between the Easter sugar art and Day of the Dead sugar art."
For more information about Angela, and to buy supplies, check out her sites: Reign Trading Company www.MexicanSugarSkull.com Mexican Calendar Girls by Chronicle Books www.CulturalAdventures.com
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 11:31 AM
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Saturday, October 25, 2008
Faux Wood Block Transfer Technique
Today I was using my Crafty Chica Flocked Skull Iron-on Transfer - which is flocked (velvety texture). After I ironed on the design, I looked at the backing plastic and said "Hmmm..." it is all outlined with the flocked stuff - it is the outlined of the design. So I sprayed on some Tulip Cool Color Spray over it and pressed it on a piece of fabric and this is what came out! The best part, is you can keep using it over and over. I'm on deadline for another project at the moment, but when I get home, I'm going to experiment even more!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 7:00 AM
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Monday, October 20, 2008
Skelton Shadow Box
(click on image for a closer view)
Take a spin by the toy section to pick up some figures, give them a makeover and then stage them inside a glittery shadow box. You can go as small as a mint tin or larger with a cigar box. Either way, you'll have a worthy piece of art!
My box is called "Recuerda me" (Remember me), it is about a ballerina who was in love with a musician. They lived in the southwest. She dreams of him in the afterlife, and knows he is thinking of her too. Come Nov 1st, her spirit will return to Earth and linger at their romantic hideaway, where she knows he is waiting for her with a beautiful ofrenda in her honor...
Supplies • Any collection of small boxes. • Scrapbook paper or fabric. • Magazine pictures. • Small dolls from the dollar store. • Small found objects. • Glitter, hot glue, white craft glue, paint. • Mardi Gras beads or other accents.
Directions Using black paint, coat the inside and outside of the box, let dry. Line the back with paper/fabric, using white craft glue. Paint the doll to look as sweet-and-scary as you want - it can be a vampire, a skeleton, a pumpkin head, a witch, a zombie, etc. I made mine for Dia de los Muertos.
Glue the doll in place and add found objects to give the box personality. Trim the inside and outside edges with the Mardi Gras beads or accents. Add a hanging attachment to the back.
Tips Make several of these boxes in different shapes and sizes and display them together in a modular pattern. Add captions, speech bubbles or titles to make them funny. Use more than one figure in several of the boxes, just to mix it up. *** See my new product line at select Michaels stores or buy online at Amazon.com!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 9:11 PM
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Saturday, October 11, 2008
Crafty CHICA-ween & Day of the Dead!
Looking for some fun Halloween projects? Look no further! I'll be adding more throughout the rest of the month, but in the meantime, here are some from years past.
Next is my favorite. It is dead.azcentral.com - it is a web site for The Arizona Republic and AzCentral that Patrick and I helped put together. Patrick did all the illustrations and I wrote many of the stories.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 11:36 PM
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Painted Halloween or Muertos Lanterns
Supplies:
1 paper lantern.
Spray paint (optional).
Assorted paints and brushes (or stencil and spray paint).
Loose glitter in black, white, purple and orange.
Newspaper.
Directions: Open the lantern. If it's white and you want to add color, take it outside and lightly spray it with the spray paint. Let dry. Prop it on a flat surface. Carefully paint on your design (or go outside and lay the stencil on the lantern and apply spray paint). Let dry. Use a liner brush and paint to highlight the edges of the design and sprinkle glitter over the wet paint. Let dry. Continue adding designs to the rest of the lantern if desired.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:46 PM
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Dia de los Muertos Education Packet
Day of the Dead information for teachers and students
This is a special package I helped put together for http://www.azcentral.com. It features the artwork of my husband, Patrick Murillo. He painted a series of pieces exclusively for this education packet! All images are copyrighted. Thanks! enjoy!
azcentral.com is proud to offer a downloadable education companion to our Dia de los Muertos site. Adults and children alike often get their first exposure to this important celebration through the colorful art, food and folk traditions of the holiday and its close association with the more common Halloween celebration.
Our goal is to educate those seeking information on this celebration through articles, original art, and interactive projects. We hope that you use this information as well the pages found on the web site to enrich young minds as well as your own.
Packet Contents: Bibliography 4 coloring pages Word search game Mix and match puzzle Papel picado lesson plan, including an easy-to-use template for younger children. Calavera mask project Skeleton puppet project
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:30 PM
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La Catrina Cigar Box Shrine
:
cigar box, clean craft knife decorative scrapbook paper acrylic paint loose glitter thick cardboard La Catrina image Sculpey polymer clay (to make skulls) 1 strand of Mardi Gras beads 4 balls or blocks for feet hot glue (E6000 Industrial Strength Adhesive) dimensional squeeze paint
Use a craft knife to remove the lid from the cigar box and set aside.
Cut a piece of scrapbook paper to fit as the background of the box. Use hot glue to attach.
Paint the inner borders and quickly sprinkle on the loose glitter over the wet paint.
Apply the La Catrina picture (figure A) to a piece of scrapbook paper to act as a border. Flip it over and glue a piece of thick cardboard to the back so it will give a dimensional look when in the box.
Apply hot glue to the back and set the picture in the center of the box.
Pinch off four dime-size pieces of clay and shape them into skulls. Bake according to manufacturer directions and then paint on eyes, nose and teeth. Let dry and then glue on in each corner of the box.
Use the glue gun to attach the strand of beads around the edge of the box.
Glue on a ball or black to each corner of the side of the lid that you had cut off earlier to act as the "feet" to the shrine. Let dry and then set it right-side up. This will be the platform that holds your cigar box shrine.
Apply a generous amount of glue to the bottom of the cigar box and set it in the center of the lid.
Decorate the outside areas with fancy papers and/or squeeze paint. Let dry.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:20 PM
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Day of the Dead Felt Banner
Day of the Dead is a Mexican tradition combining Aztec and Roman Catholic practices and beliefs that date back many centuries. It is believed that on Nov. 1 and 2 the souls of our loved ones who have passed away are able to return to their homes and visit with friends and family.
Relatives prepare for their arrival with joy and respect. One way is to build a beautiful ofrenda (altar) in honor of the departed.
This festive skull banner will add a happy touch to your ofrenda.
Felt Skull Banner
Supplies 4 sheets of felt, 2 black and 2 white, each measuring 9 by 12 inches Assorted sheets of other colors of felt Skull template (see below) Scissors White craft glue or hot-glue gun 1 strand of thin ribbon, 24" long Optional: Embroidery thread and needle, sequins, felt flowers, fringe, buttons
Directions
Cut each sheet of felt into four pieces. Pull out eight pieces in assorted colors to use as your background and set aside. Take eight white pieces and, one by one, lay the template on top and cut around it to create the skull shape.
Take a colored background piece and glue the skull in the center. Take a piece of black felt and cut two circles for the eyes, a triangle for the nose and pieces for the mouth/teeth. Glue them in place on the skull.
Apply flowers, sequins, etc., as desired. Let dry. Continue with the remaining seven background pieces. Mix up the facial features to give your banner personality - use red felt to create lips, or make eyelashes, for example. Use embroidery thread to stitch on designs or add buttons.
Arrange the pieces in a row, and then carefully flip them all over, back side up. Add a line of glue along the top edge of each piece and press the ribbon in place across all of them to connect them, leaving a "tail" on each end for hanging.
Variations: Alternate pieces with different layouts that you can create by using the scissors - such as letters, hearts and flowers.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:16 PM
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Reverse Painted Skull Art
While everyone else uses the same old decorations, you can add a distinctive touch to your altar by whipping together one of these cheery calaca frames. Visit the local dollar store to pick up a batch of small frames and some paint. Give them as gifts or use them at your next fiesta's table setting. You'll be the life of the Day of the Dead party!
Supplies: 1 small frame Acrylic paints in assorted colors (most importantly, black and white) Thin, liner paintbrush
Directions: Take apart the components of the frame. Set the piece of glass on a flat surface. Using the liner brush and black paint, draw a skull on the glass. Let dry. Now paint on flowers and other decorations and let dry. Paint the entire face with white paint. Let dry and put the frame back together.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:13 PM
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Tissue Paper Flowers
Easy Paper Flowers
by Kathy Cano-Murillo The Arizona Republic
If you are into handmade decorations, paper flowers are the way to go. Non-crafty types can even get into the spirit because it only involves simple accordion folding - a la kindergarten class. There are more elaborate, artistic ways to create paper flowers, but for starters this method is just right for adding a splash of vibrant color to a table centerpiece or place setting.
Supplies: 1 package of multicolored tissue or crepe paper 1 package of green pipe cleaners Scissors
Directions: Take four to five sheets of the tissue paper and layer them (if you want multicolored flowers, use different colors). Cut into 8-inch squares. Keeping the sheets layered, take one set of squares and fold it like an accordion so it looks like a thin rectangle. At the center of the rectangle, cut a small v-shaped notch on both sides. Take the end of a pipe cleaner and twist it around the notch. With the stem pointing straight down, gently pull up one layer of tissue into the center. Pull up the remaining layers, one by one. Repeat for the other side of the flower. Once all the layers are pulled up, fluff them in place to look natural. Continue making more flowers with the remaining stacks of squares.
Tips and variations: For sturdier stems, wrap two pipe cleaners together. Cut smaller or larger squares to change the size of your flowers. Add more layers for thicker flowers or less layers for thinner ones. For a shiny effect, dip the top edges in white glue and then dip in loose glitter. Glue a pin on the back of a flower for a fluffy lapel decoration. Make smaller flowers and string them together as garland.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:06 PM
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Sugar Skulls
A Día de los Muertos altar without sugar skulls is like a Charms Blow Pop without the bubble gum inside. It's a must-have. Sure, you can be lazy and go buy pre-decorated skulls, but if really want to show your love go the extra step and make your skulls. It's the sweetest thing you can do for the one you love.
Supplies: 1 set of plastic skull molds Mixing bowl and spoon 2 cups of granulated sugar 2 teaspoons of meringue powder 2 teaspoons of water 1 piece of cardboard, approximately 5" x 5"
Mix the dry ingredients together in the bowl. Sprinkle the water in and continue to mix until the sugar is completely moistened and becomes the consistency of moist sand. Scoop some of the mixture into the mold and pack it evenly and firmly. Place the piece of cardboard on top of the mold and quickly flip it over so the sugar skull pops out. Very carefully slide it onto a flat surface.
Continue making the rest of the skulls. Let them dry for 24 hours in a dry place.
Icing: 2/3 cup of water 1/2 cup meringue powder 2 pounds of powdered sugar Electric mixer Concentrated food coloring (the kind professional cake bakers use) 1 pastry or Ziploc bag Plastic cups Spoon
Blend the ingredients with an electric mixer until the peaks form in the icing. If using assorted colors, scoop the white icing into separate bowls and add a dab of different colored food coloring in each one. Mix again. Scoop the icing into the pastry or Ziploc bag (snip the corner for the latter). Continue until you have several bags of different colors. Keep sealed and refrigerated until use.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:02 PM
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Glitter Marker Lamp
This is lamp I made from an IKEA lampshade - I used glitter markers to color it in. I then decoupage a picture of a Day of the Dead dog and cat on the lamp base.
* Miscellaneous Heart Charms Needle nose pliers Medium jump rings Chain link bracelet with clasp
Instructions
1. Lay out chain bracelet and decide where you would like to place charms. 2. You will need one jump ring for each charm you want to attach. Pick up one jump ring and open it with needle nose pliers. Slip on charm and then connect it to chain. Use pliers to close jump ring. Make sure there is not a gap in jump ring; make sure it is closed tight so charm will not slip off. 3. Continue for rest of chain. If desired, add other charms. *** See my new product line at select Michaels stores or buy online at Amazon.com!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:31 PM
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Thursday, November 01, 2007
Dia de los Muertos Shrines
It's officially Dia de los Muertos 2007!
The first night of the two-day event begins at midnight, and it's the spirits of the babies and children who come to visit their former homes or gravesites. By this time tomorrow, they will have returned to the afterworld, and the adults will arrive.
Dia de los Muertos isn't just about cute skeletons, gallery-worthy altars or fun crafts. It's about respecting our ancestors and loved ones who have crossed over. It's welcoming their spirits back with open hearts and arms. That's why we create ofrendas at home or at gravesites with all the things that will make their senses tingle. Things that will make them feel alive on Earth again. If your Aunt Mary used to love bottled Coca Cola, imagine how big she will smile when she gets to taste it again! Make Dia de los Muertos be a personal experience for you, especially if you have recently lost someone you care deeply for.
Don't cry for them today or tomorrow. Do not let yourself feel regret or sorrow. They are here, tell them what you need to tell them, because they are listening. They hear you. Close your eyes and feel them beside you, enjoying the treats you set out for them. They are happy because you care enough to remember the joyful times, the smiles, the love and warmth they brought to your life, and you to theirs. That's what they want you to think of! This is a time to party with them again!
Remember Dia de los Muertos is about celebrating life - not mourning death. We celebrate the cycle of life. not only the deceased, but our own lives right now too. Let these days remind you to count your blessings. To try new things. Take chances. Meet new people. Let yourself experience goosebumps galore! That is truly living. Give your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren something to remember you for!
Whew. That was intense, I get like that around this time of the year. But as with so many things these days, it's easy to forget the true meaning. There are calaca clothes, shoes, jogging suits, barrettes, candy, posters, you name it! That's all cool, because it hopefully will motivate people to learn more about what Dia de los Muertos is all about. But just in case, I wanted to send out my little reminder :-)
OK, let me share some altars and shrines I've made so you can get ideas to make your own!
This mint tin shrine I made for Patrick's Grandpa Greg. He was such a cute man, so dapper and downright lovable. He was in his mid-80s and he would still flirt with the young girls and faithfully watch Sabado Gigante every weekend. He always had Jolly Ranchers in his pockets and passed them out to everyone from his grandkids to the pharmicist at the drug store. There are other little personal objects in this shrine that he would enjoy.
When it comes to making your ofrenda, it can be as simple as a photo and a marigold flower, or an ornate display. Even if you haven't lost anyone, make a shrine for victims of violence or disasters, your favorite movie star, pet or someone who really inspired you.
La vida es dulce.
*** CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:00 AM
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Wednesday, October 31, 2007
SKULLS: Plaster and sugar
1. Plaster skulls. Today is Halloween (Yay!), so that means all the decorations will be marked half off tomorrow.
Here is a tip: If you celebrate Day of the Dead, go early to the stores and scoop up some of those light up sparkle skulls - you know, the ones that are made of pitted rubbery plastic? Peel off the felt eyes and nose. Buy some plaster wrap from the craft store, cut it in strips and cover the skull with one layer. Let dry. Now take some decoupage medium and white gift tissue and cover it with that. Let dry. Paint white, and decorate as desired!
2. Sugar skulls. Every year I get oodles of e-mails asking about sugar skulls. Used in Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations Nov. 1 and 2, the sugar represents the sweetness of life, while the skull signifies that the body has passed on.
The sugar skulls are colorful and bright and are used in altars to honor loved ones who have passed away. The trick to the skulls (and the icing) is the meringue powder. Mixed with water, it hardens the sugar for the skulls. It also works for the icing, but it is a long process. I have a shortcut, which is why I use mini-tubes of frosting from the grocery store. When all is said and done, they look just like the real thing and are simple to use. And you can learn more about Day of the Dead, its history, traditions and local celebrations at dead.azcentral.com.
Supplies: 1 set of plastic skull molds Mixing bowl and spoon 2 cups of granulated sugar 2 teaspoons of meringue powder 2 teaspoons of water 1 piece of cardboard, approximately 5" x 5"
Mix the dry ingredients together in the bowl. Sprinkle the water in and continue to mix until the sugar is completely moistened and becomes the consistency of moist sand. Scoop some of the mixture into the mold and pack it evenly and firmly. Place the piece of cardboard on top of the mold and quickly flip it over so the sugar skull pops out. Very carefully slide it onto a flat surface.
Continue making the rest of the skulls. Let them dry for 24 hours in a dry place (indoors so ants won't get to them!).
Traditional icing (I prefer mini-icing tubes from the grocery store instead!): 2/3 cup of water 1/2 cup meringue powder 2 pounds of powdered sugar Electric mixer Concentrated food coloring (the kind professional cake bakers use) 1 pastry or Ziploc bag Plastic cups Spoon
Blend the ingredients with an electric mixer until the peaks form in the icing. If using assorted colors, scoop the white icing into separate bowls and add a dab of different colored food coloring in each one. Mix again. Scoop the icing into the pastry or Ziploc bag (snip the corner for the latter). Continue until you have several bags of different colors. Keep sealed and refrigerated until use.
Makes four small skulls *** CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!
Below is a picture of some sculptures he has been making for our upcoming events. They are about 4 feet high and he has four of them. Yuppers, these went over real nice when our neighbor came over the other day to ask about our tile floor. He was like, "Um, nice dead people you have in your living room..."
Nah, he didn't really say that, but his expression kinda did. We don't know what we are going to do with these yet - use them in one of our gallery exhibits, or at a fiesta, or heck, just sell them? They sure are fun to have around the house - except one night when I got up in the middle of the night for a drink of water. The lady scared the bejesus out of me! I hadn't seen that Patrick finished her clothes, so I thought she was a real midget - only dead.
Here are the events we will be at this year. There are only two - we are just too swamped with other projects: - Desert Botanical Garden: Oct 27-28. - Vision Gallery: Exhibit Oct 22-Nov 3. Fiesta on November 3rd. - Oh! I also have a book signing at the Mesa Arts Center, I'll check on the date and post it here.
I'm surprised I didn't post about Dia de los Muertos sooner! Every day I get at least 3-4 emails asking for info. So here are some links for you:
Next is my favorite. It is dead.azcentral.com - it is a web site for The Arizona Republic and AzCentral that Patrick and I helped put together. Patrick did all the illustrations and I wrote many of the stories.
* 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 *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 11:58 PM
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Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Funky Fantasy Skulls
This is a project from last year, but I'm going to post it again because I love it so much!
Sometimes all we want is easy. No directions, no thought of goof ups, nothing too detailed. That's when it's time to head to places like Target or Wal-Mart and pick up some ready-to-go Halloween decorations. But you don't just buy them and put them out, silly. I spotted these plastic light-up skulls and they looked so sad and well, plain. They were crying for color, especially for this time of the year. So I picked up a batch and embellished them with acrylic craft paint and added glittery accents with squeeze paint.
No muss, no fuss and not too gory or scary. The skulls come in various sizes and price ranges ($2.99-4.99), which make them even more appealing. If you have kids, line the kitchen table with newspaper and set out a shoebox full of craft supplies and let them go at it. You can then use them to light up the front porch, the fireplace mantle or use as centerpieces for a party.
Supplies:
1 plastic skull light purchased from a discount department store Acrylic paints Assorted small paintbrushes Tulip 3D Fashion Paint in assorted colors and textures (shiny and glittered) Loose glitter, sequins, gems, etc.
Directions: Using a paintbrush and paint, add designs around the eyes, mouth, cheeks and top of the head. Use different colors for the various areas. Let dry. Use the squeeze paint to outline or accent the areas of dried paint. Keep the designs big and bold for a more vibrant look. Add gems, sequins or loose glitter over the wet squeeze paint. Let the squeeze paint dry (about an hour) and then "brush" on the glittered squeeze paint over the flat paint to make it sparkle and look varnished.
Variations: You can also find light up pumpkins to be decorated as well. Write words on the forehead or even glue pictures on.
* 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 *
The purpose of hanging splashy banners for a muertos celebration is to show that the festivities are a celebration - not a mourn-a-bration. It's believed that the souls of the dead are hurt if they return and are greeted by weeping relatives. Traditional altars use Papel picado to signify the party, but you can be innovative by using this sassy substitute.
Supplies: 1 red cloth napkin with a patterned border 1 Clorox Bleach Pen 1 package of Creative Iron fusible fabric borders (or any other kind!) 1 piece of balsa wood 8 grommets and tool Paints Fringe hot glue small drill
Directions: Lay the napkin on apiece of cardboard. Shake the bleach pen and use the fine point side to draw on the skull design. Set aside for 30 minutes (until you can see that design has soaked thru to the other side). Rinse in warm water to remove bleach. Let dry. Iron on the fusible fabric borders. Paint the balsa wood, drill three holes at the bottom, and two at the top. Make three holes at the top of the napkin and connect to the balsa wood with ribbon. Add a strand through the two holes at the top to hang. Hot glue the fringe along the bottom of the banner.
You can go bleach pen crazy by making a whole bunch of these and tieing them together, or decorate napkins, seat covers, pillows, etc. Make sure the fabric you are using does not have ScotchGuard, otherwise the bleach pen won't work on it.
* 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 *
* 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 *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:55 PM
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Ofrenda for Steve Irwin
Homemade shrines honor departed loved ones for Dia de los Muertos
Oct. 28, 2006 12:00 AM
Kathy Cano-Murillo The Arizona Republic
Not all skeletons are created equal. Set aside the skulls and crossbones and the spooky Halloween versions and what's left are happy, colorful calacas for Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).
Dia de los Muertos (Nov. 1 and 2) is a time to honor our loved ones who have passed away.
The Mexican holiday, based on a 3,000-year-old tradition, stems from the belief that on these two days spirits from the afterlife return home to party with family and friends. To attract the spirits, personal altars known as ofrendas are set up. Each one is lovingly assembled to fit the departed's personality and then embellished with marigold flowers, ornate banners, copal incense and favorite food or drink. Dozens of other elements can be added, such as notes, pictures and mini-treasures. For example, one would play the deceased's favorite music or set out a favorite candy or cocktail.
Building an ofrenda isn't always upbeat and jovial or only for the sake of the departed. It also can empower the person creating it. Last year, Phoenix artist April Edwards created an ofrenda titled Stage IV: NO FUMAR, dedicated to her father who died of lung cancer.
"Finding closure is an ongoing thing, especially when it comes to a parent," said Edwards, 35. "Part of my altar was a box of my father's favorite cigars that he used to smoke. I tore them up. While I was doing it, I felt wrong, destroying something that he loved so much. But then I wished I had done it earlier and taken a stronger stance with him. In the end, I felt more vocal about smoking and how harmful it is. And I do feel like I have been visited by his spirit."
Edwards presented her assemblage last year at the Vision Gallery and says she received passionate responses from smokers, non-smokers, physicians and other lung cancer victims.
"I had a strong feeling about smoking, and, through my altar, I was able to relay it," she said. "As long as you respect the traditions of it, it is a way to honor someone or something you loved and express your thoughts and emotions on a personal level. Hopefully, that will get some dialogue going."
The beauty of creating an ofrenda for Dia de los Muertosis that no two creations will be alike. Some will be small enough to fit inside a mint tin, while others may consume an entire living room wall. An ofrenda can be a heavy statement about society or a simple dedication to a loved one.
Regardless, each represents the cycle of life, skeletons and all.
MORE NOTES:
More on this topic
In 2002, I had the pleasure of conducting a face-to-face interview with Steve Irwin while he was promoting his film The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course. Until then, I had never watched his TV series. Five minutes into the conversation I knew I would start watching. His energy and enthusiasm were infectious enough to convert me into a card-carrying Crocodile Hunter fan, which is why I chose to create this Dia de los Muertos ofrenda in Irwin's honor.
Here are basic elements of building one of your own. For more examples, a glossary, photos, crafts, recipes and features, visit dead.azcentral.com.
Focal point: Whatever topic you choose for your altar, you will need a main piece to build around. It can be as simple as a photo in a frame or a large decorated art piece. I took a thin piece of wood, covered it in glitter and affixed a cutout of Irwin (and friend) to the center. I then hot-glued crepe paper around the edges and small plastic animals in the open areas.
Marigold flowers: It's believed that the dead follow the scent of the marigolds back home. Call your local florist for cut flowers and greenery. I prefer to use live marigolds and then plant them after Dia de los Muertos is over - thus continuing the concept of celebrating the cycle of life. If you don't have access to real flowers, you can purchase silk versions from the craft store or make your own from colored tissue.
Prayer candles: These tall glass candles can be embellished with photos, glitter, gems and charms.
Sugar skulls: These are colorful treats made from special molds, granulated sugar, meringue powder and colored icing. The skulls represent death, while the sugar relays the sweetness of life.
Food or drink: The spirits will be hungry and thirsty after their long journey, so set out their favorite thirst quencher or tempting treat.
Miscellaneous: Add whatever other elements you'd like, such as colorful Mexican banners, papier-mâché skulls, more candles and photos, or personal items.
Copal: (not pictured) This resin-like incense is used to lure the spirits home. Copal is hard to find and quite smoky, so oftentimes incense is used.
* 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 *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 10:52 PM
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Reverse Painted Skull Art
Here is a cheery way to add some art to you Day of the Dead altar. Reverse glass painted pictures!
While everyone else uses the same old decorations, you can add a distinctive touch to your altar by whipping together one of these cheery calaca frames. Visit the local dollar store to pick up a batch of small frames and some paint. Give them as gifts or use them at your next fiesta's table setting. You'll be the life of the Day of the Dead party!
Supplies: 1 small frame Acrylic paints in assorted colors (most importantly, black and white) Thin, liner paintbrush
Directions: Take apart the components of the frame. Set the piece of glass on a flat surface. Using the liner brush and black paint, draw a skull on the glass. Let dry. Now paint on flowers and other decorations and let dry. Paint the entire face with white paint. Let dry and put the frame back together.
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 9:39 PM
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Plaster of Paris Skulls
I love finding multiple uses for products. When I first discovered Mexican sugar skull molds, I became addicted to making sugar skulls for everyone. Next, I filled them with white melting chocolate and used cake icing to decorate them. Now, I've moved onto plaster of Paris. Of course, the skulls are not edible, but they look just as yummy on projects such as this wall display and will last forever.
You can use any candy molds and achieve the same effect. However, once you use the molds for this project, you can't use them again for food.
Skull molds can be found at ABC Cake Decorating, 2853 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; Suenos Latin American Imports, 6035 N. Seventh St., Phoenix; www.mexicansugarskull.com.
Dia de los Muertos Wall Ornaments Supplies Paper mask, plastic gloves 1 bucket of plaster of Paris, sold in 4-pound containers Mixing bowl and spoon (not to be used for food consumption after use) 1 set of plastic skull molds Acrylic paints, brush Wood plaque Hot glue
Directions
Wearing the mask and the gloves, mix the plaster of Paris in the bowl according to package directions. Spoon the mixture into the molds. After the molds are filled, tap the tray on the counter so the mixture settles in all the grooves. Let sit for 40 minutes, then flip over mold tray and skulls will pop out. Paint the skulls and the wood plaque as desired. Let dry. Use the hot glue to affix the skulls to the plaque. Attach sawtooth picture hanger.
Variations
You also can use the ornaments for paperweights or other kinds of decorations.
* 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 *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 3:46 PM
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Monday, October 16, 2006
White Chocolate Sugar Skulls
This is my project for Good Morning Arizona, Monday, October 16th. Yes, I know I keep pimping this project, but it's only because people keep asking me to! Aside from seeing me demo this lovely, sugary idea on local TV today...you can also see my national version on Craft Lab this Tuesday where I do THREE projects about Dia de los Muertos! Speaking of the fabulous Jennifer Perkins (host) - here is a picture from last week when I was in Burbank with her, filming episodes for the second Season of Craft Lab!
I'm so stoked about those shows - I did one on Lucha Libre, another on glitter and a last minute one on silk flowers. OK, about the White Chocolate Sugar Skulls - it is a project from my Art de la Soul book and I'm very excited because my book was not out this time last year. There are two other really nifty ideas for Day of the Dead in there, a bleach pen skull banner and a shrine.
WHITE CHOCOLATE SUGAR SKULLS Visit dead.azcentral.com to see a video on how to make traditional sugar skulls.
Supplies 1 tray of mini-sugar skull molds (available at MexicanSugarSkull.com, or in Phoenix at Suenos Latin American Imports. Measuring cup 1 bag of Wilton White Chocolate Melting Chips, or other brand (Available at craft stores or cake decorating stores) 1 microwave safe mixing bowl 1 mixing spoon or chopstick 1 roll of wax paper Assorted tubes of Frosting Doodle or other mini-tubes of colored icing Sugared flowers, edible glitter, candy sprinkles
Put one cup of chips into the mixing bowl. Microwave on high for 15 seconds. Remove and stir. The chocolate melts only when you stir the mixture. It's crucial to keep stirring, otherwise your pieces will scorch. Keep heating and stirring in 15- to 20-second intervals until the chips have melted to a creamy consistency. Spoon the mixture into the molds. Using both hands, lift the tray about six inches and drop it to help the mixture settle and remove any bubbles. Let cool until firm. Flip the skulls onto a sheet of wax paper. Knead the tube of frosting until the contents are of an even consistency. Decorate the skulls with the icing, sprinkles, etc. Wrap the finished skulls in small cellophane bags with ties and keep refrigerated.
Variations: Make multicolored skulls - the melting chocolate comes in hot pink, purple, red, green, yellow, brown, orange, blue and several other colors. Write the names of your friends on the foreheads of the skulls.
CLICK HERE to hear my podcast about Dia de los Muertos!
* 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 *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:36 AM
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Saturday, April 29, 2006
'Tree of Life' Clay Lightswitch Covers
These are some light switch covers that my husband, Patrick, decorated with polymer clay. He rolled and sculpted each and every one! This is exactly what you would call a texture craft! He also did a whole concrete bench in fired clay with the same concept. Gosh, I wish we had pictures of that too!
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 3:13 PM
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Monday, October 31, 2005
Crafty Chica Podcast #4: Dia de los Muertos
Dia de los Muertos special edition! Kathy Cano Murillo, the Crafty Chica chats about the history of Day of the Dead, explains the basics of building an ofrenda and shares her favorite muertos craft - White Chocolate Sugar Skulls! This episode is a sneak preview of Kathy's new book, "Crafty Chica's Art de la Soul", due in February, but available for presale at Amazon.com
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 12:33 PM
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Sunday, October 30, 2005
Dia de los Muertos Charm Bracelet
Looking for something spectacular and special to wear for Dia de los Muertos on Monday and Tuesday? I know, I know - a calaca mask won'tr exactly be appropriate for the office or classroom. Instead, wear your skeleton style with this dangly charm bracelet!
Whatcha you need: Chain link bracelet Charms, beads Eye pins, head pins Needlenose pliers White polymer clay, black paint Glue
Whatcha do to make it: Pinch off small bits of clay and shape into mini skulls. Clip an eye pin down so you can insert it in the top of the skull (so you can hang it from the bracelet). Bake per directions on package. Now feed beads thru headpins and attach to link bracelet. I like mine super dangly, so I add one or two charms/beads to each link. After skulls are done baking, use the head pin to paint on eyes, nose and teeth. Add a teeny drop of glue to hold eyepin in place, attach to bracelet.
This is a project from my La Casa Loca book. Thought I'd share it with you!
* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 4:42 PM
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Friday, October 14, 2005
Light Up Skulls
by Kathy Cano Murillo - Oct. 15, 2005 12:00 AM The Arizona Republic Sometimes all we want is easy. No directions, no thought of goof ups, nothing too detailed. That's when it's time to head to places like Target or Wal-Mart and pick up some ready-to-go Halloween decorations. But you don't just buy them and put them out, silly. I spotted these plastic light-up skulls and they looked so sad and well, plain. They were crying for color, especially for this time of the year. So I picked up a batch of them and embellished them with acrylic craft paint and added glittery accents with squeeze paint. No muss, no fuss and not too gory or scary. The skulls come in various sizes and price ranges ($2.99-4.99), which make them even more appealing. If you have kids, line the kitchen table with newspaper and set out a shoebox full of craft supplies and let them go at it. You can then use them to light up the front porch, the fireplace mantle or use as centerpieces for a party.
Supplies:
1 plastic skull light purchased from a discount department store Acrylic paints Assorted small paintbrushes Dimensional squeeze paints in assorted colors and textures (shiny and glittered) Loose glitter, sequins, gems, etc.
Directions: Using a paintbrush and paint, add designs around the eyes, mouth, cheeks and top of the head. Use different colors for the various areas. Let dry. Use the squeeze paint to outline or accent the areas of dried paint. Keep the designs big and bold for a more vibrant look. Add gems, sequins or loose glitter over the wet squeeze paint. Let the squeeze paint dry (about an hour) and then "brush" on the glittered squeeze paint over the flat paint to make it sparkle and look varnished.
Variations: You can also find light up pumpkins to be decorated as well. Write words on the forehead or even glue pictures on.
* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 1:04 PM
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Sunday, December 05, 2004
Papel Picado
Every year around Dia de los Muertos I make a new set of Papel Picado banners. There is a traditional, painstaking way, but I go the easy route. You can either fold up the tissue like a snowflake and cut your shapes or you can lay a small stack and cut designs thrugh them by "drawing" with an exacto knife. I used stencils as a guide to get some nifty looking swirlies. I call it mixing the new with the old!
Use white tissue for wedding banners!
* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 11:30 PM
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Monday, November 01, 2004
Dia de los Muertos Pin
Come the end of the month, it's not at all uncommon to see scary skeletons lurking around the neighborhoods, thanks to Hallo- ween. But thanks to Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), friendly skeletons are just as welcome. The Mexican holiday, Nov. 1 and 2, celebrates the wondrous cycle of life by recognizing -- but not fearing -- death. It is a day to reflect on the warm and fuzzy memories and share happy stories, rather than mourning the absence of the dearly departed. It's believed that the spirits of our loved ones return on these special days to be with family and friends. We welcome them by dedicating a variety of festive, colorful activities in their honor, such as building an ofrenda that includes that individual's favorite foods, hobbies, music, pictures and more. For more than this skeletal summary of the holiday, visit dead.azcentral.com for a list of upcoming events, recipes, book recommendations, multimedia of altars built by local artists and a history timeline. Dia de los Muertos Pin Supplies: * Gumball-size chunk of Sculpey clay * Liner brush * Craft knife * Black and white acrylic paints * 2 jump rings * Miniscissors * Snippets of fuchsia, teal, green, purple and yellow party streamers * Glue gun * Colored seed beads * Small pin back * Milagro * Water-based varnish Directions: Flatten the ball of clay into the shape of a quarter. Use the opposite end of the liner brush to make indented eyeholes and cheekbones. Make a blunt cut for the chin with the craft knife. Bake in oven according to directions to harden clay. Paint base coat in white, then add thin black facial accents. Turn over so backside is up and glue one jump ring to the bottom. Use miniscissors to cut 2-inch by half-inch of party streamers. Take one piece at a time and scrunch it, then apply it around the outside edge of the pin. Continue lining until the paper goes all the way around the pin. Glue one seed bead in each eyehole for color. Attach pin back. Loop the milagro onto the jump ring and connect to the other jump ring. Add a layer of water-based varnish to the skull. Tip: Milagros (a k a "little miracles," tiny silver prayer charms) can be found at local Mexican import shops.
Next is my favorite. It is dead.azcentral.com - it is a web site for The Arizona Republic and AzCentral that Patrick and I helped put together. Patrick did all the illustrations and I wrote many of the stories.
* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *
• Posted by Kathy Cano-Murillo, The Crafty Chica, 3:10 AM
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About Me
Name: Kathy Cano-Murillo
Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Mommy, wifey, artist, author, left-handed middle-child Sagittarian. Craft designer, product developer, former newspaper columnist. My first novel, WAKING UP IN THE LAND OF GLITTER debuts March 1st!
Are you a Crafty Chica? Wear a T-Shirt to prove it!
Note to visitors:
Hola! This site is the archive of all my past projects for Gannett News Service and The Arizona Republic. These ideas are for personal use only. I make a living as a craft designer, so I will be using these ideas in my published works. If you are thinking of selling or using these ideas for profit, please give respect and "twist" them to make them your own - put your own stamp on them to make them different. It will work out for the best for both of us! Thank you and much respect from one creative person to another! — Kathy