This is a project from my Crafty Chica Collection book, glittered soda pop bottles!

Here's how to do it:

Buy some glass pop bottles. I love the Mexican ones because they have raised designs or the labels printed directed on the glass. But you can also use flat paper label ones. It's all good!

You'll need acrylic craft paint, assorted brushes, and toothpicks for the micro spots.

You'll also need decoupage medium and ultra fine glitter in colors that match your paint colors.

First paint the entire bottle, and all the little details. Let it dry.

Next, working one area at a time, coat it in a thin layer of the decoupage medium and then pour on the glitter. Don't sprinkle the glitter - POUR it! If you sprinkle, you'll miss some spots. Trust me. Tap off the excess glitter and move on to the next spot.

Stop when it is all covered in glitter. Spray with varnish to seal it.

You could skip the paint part, but I like to do that step because it makes the glitter more vibrant. Red glitter on red paint, yah, baby, gimme more....

Now you can use your bottles as vases, centerpieces for a party, for a window sill, etc.


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

Labels: glitter, home decor, inside

I have embellishment-itis.

My hands quiver when I see raw wood furniture.

My left eye twitches if I even think about a solid- color canvas tote. And brand-new blank journals? Oh, Lordy, hold me back.

I'm the kind of wife/mom/friend/daughter who makes people hide their goods, because if I find them, I may just break out the sequins. I have the urge to decorate everything and anything possible - even down to our innocent dish towels.

I don't feel guilty, though. Life is too short to have plain white towels in the kitchen. With a bit of felt and embroidery floss, you, too, can discover the happy world of this colorful design disorder. By the way, this project can be made in any color combination and will make a great hostess or housewarming gift.


Fancy Felt Dish Towels
Supplies:


2 blank dish towels
Scissors
Straight pins
Assorted colors of embroidery thread, needle
Assorted colors of craft felt
Pompom trim

Directions
1. Cut six circles (or squares) 1 1/2 inches across, and six circles (or squares) that are 1 inch across.

2. Match up the shapes to make six contrasting sets that have one large and one smaller shape.

3. Use the straight pins to attach the sets where you want them. Thread your embroidery needles with a contrasting color and sew approximately 20 satin stitches in a pinwheel design. If you are using squares, you will need eight to nine stitches.

4. Continue sewing on the remaining pieces.

5. Embroider a line across the bottom and/or other designs, as desired.

6. Sew on a line of pompom fringe.

Variations: Instead of circles and squares, try cutting out letters, Picasso-like faces or other shapes. Sew on fabric to match the felt.



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

Labels: home decor, inside, sewing

Kathy Cano-Murillo
The Arizona Republic
Dec. 7, 2002 11:31 AM

Imagine Christmas Eve without candy canes or sugarplums. They are just two reasons why sweets are a staple of the holiday season. And there's no better way to appreciate the sugary stuff than to visit Dylan's Candy Bar in New York City. I stumbled upon it during a recent trip and was overwhelmed with its two colorful levels that were packed with enough candy treats. to make Willy Wonka melt in shame.

Aside from the usual chocolate bars and gingerbread houses, Dylan's was outfitted with rows upon rows of gorgeous candy trees in all shapes and sizes.

After my initial gasp of delight, I couldn't help but take a closer peek. And like all curious crafters, I quickly analyzed the structure - via a nonchalant eye scan. Here is my home-made version, but for the real thing, visit Dylan's Web site at dylanscandybar.com and order one pre-made.
Candy Christmas Tree
Supplies:
Gold-colored and other assorted acrylic paints and paint brush
Ribbon and hot glue gun
1 foam topiary tree, 18 inches tall
Newspaper
1 6-inch flowerpot
2 large bags of wrapped candies with sealed edges
1 box of straight pins
Toothpick
Wood, cardboard or papier-mâché star
Directions: Paint the flowerpot in desired colors and trim the lip with ribbon, using the hot glue. Crumple half a sheet of newspaper and place it at the bottom of the flowerpot. Paint the topiary gold or other preferred color.

When dry, insert it into the pot until it fits snuggly. Begin attaching the candies in rows around the bottom of the tree by poking a pin through the wrapper's edge and pressing it into the foam. Continue to fill the tree working in rows from the bottom up. Fill the base of the tree with candy in the same manner. Paint and decorate the star, adhere the toothpick with glue, and attach to the top of the tree.

Variations: Use other candies, such as peppermint twists or toffees. Instead of a flowerpot, use coffee cups or other types of containers. To give as a gift, wrap the tree in cellophane and add a bow.


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

Labels: food crafts, holiday, inside

Fall leaves are hard to come by in my neck of the city. So unless you are planning a trip up north soon, you'll have to check out the floral aisle at the craft store.

Whether they are the real thing or not, fall leaves are a lovely sign that fall is finally here. So why not incorporate them into your latest craft project?

This embellished frame is a wonderful way to embrace November and all it has to offer.

Fall Leaf Frame

Supplies:
1 wood picture frame
Gold paint, brush
Assorted silk fall leaves
Scissors
Hot glue
Gold micro stars
White craft glue
Green spray glitter.

Directions: Paint the frame gold and let dry. Snip the stems from the leaves and sort the large leaves from the small. Hot glue the large ones around the front of the frame in a random but balanced fashion. Hot glue the smaller leaves to cover bare spots. Apply a tiny drop of glue on one of the leaves and place a micro star on top of it. Continue until the micro stars are evenly distributed around the leaves. Let dry. Take it outside and lightly spray on a mist of glitter. Let dry.

Variations: If you have real fall leaves, place them inside a floating frame to preserve them. Use silk leaves to adorn napkin rings, lapel pins and more.



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Labels: home decor, inside, Thanksgiving

Hey, guys: Designs can be manly

Kathy Cano-Murillo
Special for the Republic
Oct. 6, 2007 12:00 AM

Every so often someone will ask me, "Do you ever do boy crafts?"

Eek! I'm so addicted to glitter, bright colors and bejeweled trim that honestly, masculine projects are a challenge.

Not today.

I bought my 16-year-old son a new set of sheets and wanted to personalize it for him. I thought of a cool company - Stencil 1 (www.stencil1.com), and its specialty is hip stencils - I found at last year's Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn. No geese in bonnets or ivy vines here. I'm talking boomboxes, monkey heads, turntables, muscle cars and old-school banana-seat bicycles.

The stencils come in large and small sizes, perfect for walls or smaller projects. When using them, you can go with the traditional stencil pouncing method and fabric paint, or you can try fabric spray paint.

Using hip stencils on sheets creates a fun graffiti-style look that proves crafting can be cool even for boys.

However, if you want a cleaner, classier look, check out the craft store for other stencils.

My only quandary for these guy-friendly bedsheets was whether to add black fabric glitter. It took all my might, but (sigh) I decided against it.

I don't think my son would have appreciated the sparkles.

Stenciled Graffiti Bedsheets
Supplies

Sheet set

Plastic gloves

Assorted stencils

Stencil brush

Bottled fabric paint

Directions

Working in a garage, or someplace roomy, line the bottom of your work surface with plastic. Lay the sheet face up on the plastic. Put on the gloves.

Set the stencils where you want the images to be. Hold down the stencil with your hand and lightly dab stencil brush in paint, dab on paper towel and then pounce up and down on top of fabric, covering entire stencil area.

Remove stencil and continue on the remainder of the sheet. Repeat process for the edge of the pillowcases. Let dry. Wash as usual.

Fabric paint dries soft, but you can choose whether to just decorate the top sheet, or the bottom sheet as well. I went with just the top sheet.

Spray fabric paint works, too, but the previously mentioned method leaves much cleaner lines.

Variations: For more personalization, use foam letters, stamps and fabric paints, or draw your own designs using permanent fabric markers.


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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

I'm a coffee fanatic, and I love me some Cafe Bustelo. I can't bear to toss out the cans after I'm done downing the java. I use these cans all over my workspace to hold my paintbrushes, pens, markers, etc.

This particular can I used to make an adorable clock for my kitchen. I loved it so much that I even included it in one of my books. Making it is as easy as dropping a sugar cube in a cup!


Supplies:

1 Cafe Bustelo can (or any other interesting looking can)
1 handheld rotary tool (Dremel!)
1 clock mechanism with arms (found at the craft store in the wood aisle)
4 round wood balls painted red
Hot glue

Directions: Simply drill a hole in the center of the can where you want the clock to go. Attach the clock. Glue the balls on the bottom. Put the plastic lif on the top of the can. Remove it when you need to change the battery.

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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

I love me some Lucy Lu Mighty Magnets. They have that thick coat of shiny stuff on top and they look so pretty and cool. But at $13 bucks a pop, I can only afford to recieve them as gifts! Plus, maybe I want to mix and match my mighty magnets.

That led me to experiment with making my own Crafty Chica version. Mmmmmm, I love how they came out. (Some of these images are from Ken Brown wrapping paper!)

This is how I did it:

Supplies:

Wood pieces
Sturdy magnets
Envirotex Lite (2 part resin mixture)
paper cup, chopstick, drinking straw
Pictures
Aleene's Tacky Glue
Black craft paint
Waxed paper

Directions:

Line your work area with waxed paper. Glue the image to the wood piece. Paint the edges to seal the paper to the wood. Let dry. Apply a coat of Tacky Glue over the entire image and around the edges to again seal the paper to the wood - otherwise the resin will "seep" under. Let it dry until the glue is absolutely clear. Mix the resin in the cup according to the package directions. Use the chopstick to stir it. Apply a dollop on the wood piece and use the chopstick to push the resin to the edges without letting it drip. Blow out any bubbles with the drinking straw. Let it cure for 24 hours. Glue the magnet on the back. Enjoy!
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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, inside, paper, resin

Embroidery is one craft most crafters want to try. It's drawing with threads, and offers so many options. The easiest route is to start with a dish towel, pillowcase or hankie, but that's boring. That's why I was intrigued to discover African Folklore Embroidery from Arizona Republic reader Alexis Kjellstrom, 52. The Phoenix resident and AFLE-certified instructor wrote to me about the art form and the classes she teaches.

"I became interested in this embroidery (technique) because of the brightness of the colors and the total artistic freedom and expression it offers," she says. "The designs are influenced by the Ndebele people, animals and flora of South Africa. Since the final outcome of the design is totally up to the embroidery artist, the sky is the limit. Applique and beading can be added to achieve the look you want as well as the use of a variety of threads and even ribbon embroidery."

The traditional South African craft is different from regular embroidery in that bright hand-dyed threads and beads are used on black fabric. The extreme contrast makes the end result pop. Artist Leona Raikin, a native of South Africa, used African Folklore Embroidery as a way to pass the time as a child. After moving to Southern California, she launched a line of do-it-yourself kits featuring designs inspired by the Ndebele people.

I used an AFLE kit to make this embroidered end table. For information on classes, visit the AFLE Web site, www.aflembroidery .com, or e-mail Kjellstrom at africafolk@cox.net.

CLICK HERE FOR 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: fabric, inside, multi-culti, sewing

Remember last year when I got hooked on making No-Sew Napkin Pillows? Well, I'm still diggin' on it. Except now I'm adding pictures. I whipped up this fetching set over the weekend for Patrick's Auntie Angie. It was her birthday and she loves Cine Mexicano. So I took the postcards, printed them on InkJet fabric sheets and sewed them onto a bigger piece of background fabric and then stitched the whole dang thing to a napkin, did it again, stuffed the pillow and glued the seams shut.

If you aren't into sewing, pick up a bottle of Aleene's Fabric Fusion and just brush it on the back of your fabric and press it into place. There you go! Dos fabuloso cushinas!

Eee, that reminds me - I have to go practice for my Spanish class tomorrow!


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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: inside, sewing

One of my episodes of Craft Lab aired last week and I've recieved so many emails (OK - two) about it, I thought I'd post the projects here. First of all, thanks to Jennifer and the team at Screen Door Entertainment and DIY Network for inviting me on the show!!!

This episode is called "Latin-inspired crafts and I show how to make a Shadow Box Table, a Paper Flower Topiary and a Rumba Girl Lamp.


Directions.


Directions.



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: Cinco DeMayo, Craft Lab, flowers, inside, Latin-inspired, multi-culti

This crafty chica is back in action!!! Thank you so much for all your awesome thoughts and support, I'm sending it right back at you 10 fold!!!

I hope you are as de-LIGHTed with this week's project as much as I am!

I like to knit and love to crochet, but hardly have time for either, yet that doesn't lessen my addiction to yarn. So when I came across the bewitching spinning skills of Austin, Texas, artist Amanda Jones, I was hooked. I used her yarn to make this frilly lampshade and you can too!

Jones' Hysterical Yarns start at $23.05 for 55 yards. To see more of her work, visit www.venusart.org or venusart.etsy.com.

Supplies:

Yarn
Fabric Fusion glue
Lampshade
Scissors

Directions: Work one section at a time on the lampshade. Coat a circle shape with the glue and snip a 15-inch piece of yarn. Lay it on the glue in a swirl pattern. Continue all over the lampshade. Trim the edges by going around and around.
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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, lights

I was recently on HGTV showing how to make these fun knob pulls. In case you missed it, I'm posting the directions here. Yes, that's a cabinet from my kitchen!

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: Cinco DeMayo, Craft Lab, inside, Latin-inspired, resin

The first goal of the year should be to take care of your mind, body and spirit. A big part of that is eating healthfully, exercising and practicing good karma.

Don't forget to take a break to relax and clear your brain. Because we're cleaning out our houses anyway, moving around furniture and such, this is a logical time to find a soothing corner in your living space and make it your own.

Take a day to paint and decorate an end table and comfy chair in your favorite fabric or paint color, crack open a new journal, a juicy ink pen and let your mind wander - even if it is for just 15 minutes a day. Part of that process should involve candles.

The flickering flames of tea lights do wonders to set the mood, especially if you choose your favorite scent and dress up the tin containers with strips of decorative paper. Set the candles on a mirror and reflections will quadruple.

Always use caution around candles; extinguish them when you leave the area.

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE 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: holiday, home decor, inside, lights, wedding

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Labels: garden, inside, outdoor, wedding

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

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.

Labels: Day of the Dead, home decor, inside

Just say no to boring hanging light fixtures.

Use this weekend to enliven your ceiling with a dash of funky, handmade style. This project will add a new level of functionality to the standard photo frame. Print your favorite pictures on vellum paper and insert them in the frames for a translucent effect.
Photo Art Hanging Lantern
Supplies
• 4 wood frames
• Craft paint
• Brushes
• Photos color copied onto vellum paper sized to fit in the frame
• 8 small hinges
• E6000 Industrial Strength Adhesive
• Drill
• 4 eye screws
• Chain or cording
• Large jump ring
• Gallery Glass squeeze paint

Directions: Disassemble the frames. Set the glass aside and then base-coat and embellish frames with paint. Let dry.

Insert the vellum paper. Reassemble the frames and lay them face down. Use the glue to affix two hinges to each frame back and connect them until it forms a box. Let dry.

You also can use hot glue to hold the hinges until the E6000 cures. Let dry.

Drill a small hole at the top of each frame border. Add a dab of E6000 and attach an eye screw. Let dry and attach chain. Repeat the process. Connect the four chains at the top with a large ring for hanging. Use it with a hanging light (sold in home-décor stores with the Chinese lanterns) or skip the eye screws and use as a table lantern.

Variations: Add fringe or beaded trim along the bottom. Instead of photos, create a collage and color copy it on vellum for use inside the frame, or use glass paint to create a colorful design.


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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: inside, lights

Ihave a confession to make. I make a special effort to add to the kitchen junk drawer. I toss in matchbooks from nightclubs, notes from my kids, cool pieces of wrapping paper, punker pins, pretty sugar packets from vacations, trinkets, minidolls, postcards and - whew! - any other small items I come across.

This habit doesn't come out of laziness or lack of organization. It comes from the thrill of emptying the drawer after a couple of months and sorting through it to find a theme for a funky shadow box.

If you are a structured person who colors within the lines, this still is the project for you. It's a way to cut loose and make art in a fun, free-form fashion. And if you are loca - like me - you will appreciate the idea as another way to express your personality.

Most of the items from this box came from Hawaiian knickknacks I collected a few years back. I have yet to go to Maui, but at least I have a fabulous art piece for my home. And it's a creative way to clean the junk drawer.
Junk Drawer Wall Shrine (hula style)
Supplies
• 1 large wood box, wood fruit crate or old junk drawer
• Sandpaper
• Acrylic paints, brushes
• Adhesives: Hot glue, industrial strength, white craft glue, and double stick tape
• Decorative paper
• Assorted knickknacks
• Trims

Directions: If you are using a recycled wood box, sand it to soften rough edges. Paint the box in whatever color you like. Let dry. Use white craft glue or double-stick tape to affix paper to the back of the box. Sort your items according to size. Find one or two that will be the focal point. Arrange the other objects to your liking and then hot glue them in place, leaving room for the larger pieces (or vice versa, whichever way works best for you). Add painted decorations, trims or objects to the top and sides of the box.

Tips: If you are missing components for your box, visit a thrift or discount store to buy filler objects, or check out a paper-arts store for colorful papers, trims and findings.


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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, multi-culti

Here's a crafty catastrophe if I ever saw one: Dropping an entire box of "sorted" beads on the tile.

When it happened, at first I fell to my knees, slapped my hands on my cheeks and screamed to the heavens (we artistic folks are dramatic). But then I took a series of deep breaths, calmed down and considered my options. I could either spend hours crying while putting the beads, one by one, back in their tidy compartments or I could make the best of a bad situation and create something with them on the spot. I opted for the latter and came up with this funky beaded mirror project.

I love it so much and totally agree with that "everything happens for a reason" philosophy. By being a bit of a klutz, I went from frustrated to fabulous with the help of a drill, wire and a wood mirror. Here is a tip: If you can't find a wood-framed mirror, you can always buy a piece of wood at the home-improvement store and glue on a mirror from the craft store. Let this be a lesson that any accident can be remedied with a bit of creative intervention.
Loopy-Do Beaded Mirror
Supplies
• 1 wood mirror or frame
• Paint, paintbrush
• Drill
• 1 spool of 36-gauge wire
• Assorted beads
• Needle-nose pliers
• Small crystals
• Craft glue

Directions: Drill holes around the edge of the mirror, leaving about two inches between each one. Paint the mirror in desired color and let dry. Cut a piece of wire about 24 inches long, insert the end into one of the holes and twist to secure. Feed the beads on the wire. The more beads you add, the bigger your "loop" will be, and the fewer beads, the smaller it will be. Insert the wire through the next hole and repeat the pattern. Keep going until you run out of wire. Repeat the process of adding more wire and beads until there are loops all around the outside of the mirror. Glue the crystals around the outside of the mirror. Hang and enjoy!

Variations: Use all the same kind of beads for a more uniform look, or use letter beads to spell out a phrase or family names. Decoupage the mirror or paint other designs on it.

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Labels: home decor, inside

Fall is around the corner, which means we're approaching time for a wardrobe change. Why not perk up those hangers, too? This project would make Joan Crawford proud ("What's wire hangers doing in this closet when I told you: no wire hangers EVER?" - Mommie Dearest). This project uses sturdy wood hangers you can decorate to fit your style. Use them to hang coats, pants or T's or anything else that fits. Add your initials or favorite saying or even paint on the logo of your favorite designer. Another option is to decorate a hanger, screw in small mug hooks and use it as a jewelry or scarf holder.
Personalized Hangers
Supplies
• Wood hangers (available at Ikea)
• Painting: acrylic paint, brushes
• Woodburning: Pencil, woodburning tool, sand paper
• Decoupage: scissors, decoupage medium, lightweight tissue paper, brush
• Varnish

Directions for painting: Use the brush to basecoat the hanger. Make sure to cover the entire piece. Use stencils or freehand a design. Use squeeze glitters, too, if you want. Let dry and varnish. Allow 24 hours to dry before using.

Directions for woodburning: Use a pencil to sketch your design on the hanger. Plug in tool and when hot, go over the pattern several times to achieve the look you want.

Directions for decoupage: Cut out the paper shapes you want to put on the hanger. Brush the decoupage medium on the hanger surface and carefully apply the paper. Use the brush to remove any bubbles, working from the center, outwards. Continue the process on the rest of the hanger's surface. Let dry and varnish.

And here are some other pictures of painted hangers. I bought the wood hangers at IKEA.






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Labels: home decor, inside

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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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

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

It's been five months since my book came out and I want to celebrate. I know I've had other books released, but this one just feels different. I've never had such a huge response before. I've had sparkling reviews and articles on it in Editor & Publisher, Figure Magazine, L.A. Times, Newsday, Somerset Studio, Artist's Sketchbook, sheesh! I've had Latina crafting groups contact and invite me out to their meetings. Even a few celebs have taken a liking to it. The list goes on! And it doesn't stop there. There are several others coming up this summer like Adorn Magazine, Venus Zine, Cutting Edge, Knit1 and Seattle Times!

Currently I'm working on network pitches for my Crafty Chica show, and am "thisclose" to submitting my novel manuscript to my new agent, Erin. And in coming weeks, my next Crafty Chica craft book goes up for sale to publishing houses. It will be my best one yet. As soon as it is a done deal, I'll post all the details. I'm also gearing up for New York, California and Mexico. Life is glittery indeed. I never thought I'd be doing all of this. I always thought "Well, I'll try it and see how far it goes." And now look. Recently I had someone kid around and call me the Rachel Ray of crafting and it brought a tear to my eye. She started the same way as me, local TV and store demos. It would be my ultimate fantasy to have a career like hers, EVOO and all! But for now, I'm grounded and taking one fast step at a time, holding on for the surreal ride.

So I thought I'd share a project from Crafty Chica's Art de la Soul in honor of the anniversary and just because I'm feeling so perky. To think I was bummed because LOST, American Idol and America's Next Top Model have ended. I worried what I'd do with my Wednesday nights now. Um, jump on getting my orders out, that's what. I feel guilty posting here because Patrick and I still have so many packages to pack and mail to poor people who have been waiting forever.

This is a window shade that is so easy it should be a crime. You simply buy a window shade kit that comes with fabric fusing. Buy your fabric and follow the directions! I took it a step further and added some trim and a hanging tassel.

By the way, if you like the Mexicali fabrics I've been using, they are Alexander Henry. Today I met the head designer, Nicole DeLeon, and she is a genius! Anyway, you must try this project with your favorite material. It really does wonders for perking up a room!

Real quick - Did you see Game Show Marathon tonight? Love it! Talk about a guilty pleasure!

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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: Cinco DeMayo, home decor, inside, Latin-inspired

Cinco de Mayo is next week, and that means party time. If you plan to have a salsa-tinged bash at your place, add some Latin flair to your setting.

Barstools are a great place to start. You can buy them for less than $20 at any discount department store and have your way with them.

They make a great outlet for functional art because decoupage, mosaics and tole painting are simple ways to make them your own.

I covered mine with colorful oilcloth and used contrasting paint colors to pull it all together. If you don't want the Mexican theme, use any other kind of fabric that makes you happy.
Fiesta Barstool
Supplies
1 wood barstool
1/2 yard of oilcloth fabric
Assorted acrylic paints, brushes
Varnish (spray or brush on)
12 upholstery tacks, hammer
Thick upholstery foam
Felt marker
Scissors
1 yard of fringe trim
Hot glue gun
Medium-grade sandpaper

Directions: Lightly sand the barstool's legs. Turn the stool upside down and place on the piece of foam. Use the marker to trace around the seat of the stool on the foam. Cut out the shape and set aside.

Choose a color and base coat everything except the seat, let dry. Add painted accents on the legs. Let dry and then add multiple coats of varnish, letting each coat dry in between applications.

With the barstool upright, apply hot glue on the seat and attach the piece of foam. Make sure the foam is secure around the edges. Trim any excess foam; you want it to go to the edge of the seat.

Turn the stool upside down again and place on the piece of oilcloth fabric. Pull the fabric up around the edges, leave an extra 6 inches all the way around and mark the fabric there for cutting. Toss excess.

Apply a generous amount of hot glue underneath the seat of the barstool, tug the fabric over it and press down with your hands to seal it. Continue all the way around the seat, gathering the fabric at the edges so it looks even and taut. Make sure all the fabric is glued to the surface.

Flip the barstool over and hot glue the trim around the edge. Apply tacks evenly around the border of the trim.



Project courtesy of my La Casa Loca book. Photo by Bobbie Bush.

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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: Cinco DeMayo, inside, Latin-inspired, other holidays, outdoors

Don't these pillows look like they came from a home design or department store? They kinda did. They are napkins! I took some large cloth napkins and used my heavy duty glue gun and made them into stury sofa pillows. What makes this project so dang cool is that the napkins already have crisp seams, so you just glue them together inside the hem. This idea came to me because I love the different kinds of napkins that are for sale, but we are just *not* a fabric napkin kind of family. We're like the Viva paper towel family. So at last, my soul is at peace because I found a way to have my napkins and use them too.

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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

I'm in this kind of a mood today. Lots of thoughts, phrases and tiny objects all stuck inside my head, any which way they will fit. I made this suitcase shrine a few years back and I just felt like sharing it tonight. The actual case came from my dad. For years he used it to carry all his camera equipment. One day he gave it to me to carry my art supplies. Of course, being the weirdo I am, I made it into a piece of art instead.

London is this crafty chica's favorite city in the universe. I've been there three times and I gathered up all my souvenirs and assembled them on this case. Yes, it opens and is fully functional, I can thank e6000 glue for that. This is proof that I'm not at all one of those minimalist artists. Either you like clunky stuff or you don't.

I do. So there. Have a nice week!

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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, inside, shrines

Do you have a can of old coins hanging around? I did. I used them to make this frame go from blah to bam! By the way, if you ever want to remove the coins undamaged, you can.

What you need:

- Old chunky frame
- 4-5 acrylic paint colors
- sandpaper
- assorted old coins
- e6000 glue

First you want to take a chunky wood frame and distress it with a meat tenderizer, etc. Choose four-five colors of contrasting acrylic paint colors and apply them TWICE, one, by one, letting each coat dry in between layers. Now use the sandpaper over the whole thing - you want to bring up those different layers of paint colors. Distress the frame more and sand more. Think you are done? Sand again. OK, now glue on the coins. You're done, mama!

Want more crafty goodness? Check out my NEW book! See below...

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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, recycled

These are goblets I bought for a buck at a garage sale. I was and sterilized them and used glass paint to add some fun decorations to them!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: holiday, home decor, inside

This is a kinda wacky idea I came up with when I gathered a gob of odds and ends together. I incorporated them into a mosaic. I made it the traditional way with adhesive, followed by grout.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, home decor, inside

Using fabric transfer paper and lots of notions & scraps (even some from a favorite pair of jeans), I came up with this. Here are the directions. And you can use anything you want in the center, I just happen to love the prayer card images!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, fabric, inside, sewing, shrines

Set Dad down to his own tick-tack-toe game
by Kathy Cano-Murillo - Jun. 18, 2005 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic
It's 24 hours until Father's Day, and you still need one last gift. Think handmade, functional and interactive: a tick-tack-toe game! This project is aimed at kids who don't have enough allowance to buy Dad that set of killer golf clubs but still want to offer up something spiffy and unforgettable. With a ceramic tile and some wood pieces, you can whip up a handsome game board that can sit on the coffee table for the whole family to enjoy throughout the year. In this sample, I used painted wood pieces, but for an extra personal touch, make five copies of a picture of Dad's face, and five of your own, and then glue them to the wood pieces. So instead of using X's and O's, you can use your mugs as the game pieces.

Father's Day Tick-Tack-Toe Game

Supplies
• 1 ceramic tile, 12 by 12 inches
• 1 Sharpie marker and ruler
• 4 wood balls, a half-inch in diameter
• 10 wood disks or squares
• Assorted water-based acrylic paints, paintbrush
• E6000 adhesive.

Directions: Paint a base coat on the disks/squares - five in one color and five in a contrasting color. Let dry and then paint an "X" on five of them and "O" on the remaining five. Set aside and let dry. Paint the wood balls and let dry. Flip the tile upside down and apply adhesive to the bottom of each ball. Place one in each corner and let dry for an hour. Flip the tile right side up and using the ruler draw four lines to create the grid for the game.

Variations: You can use just about anything for the game pieces. Aside from gluing your photos on wood pieces, you can rubber-stamp or paint designs on the wood, or use found objects such as coins or washers. You can also use polymer clay.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: father's day, inside, recycled

I was so excited to decorate my son's and daughter's rooms. Well, that is, until I asked for their input.

All I wanted was cheery, kid-friendly inspiration. Instead I received an elaborate floor plan from my 8-year old, Maya. I should have known that letting her watch too many episodes of The Powerpuff Girls couldn't be healthy. She came up with a grand plan of lime-green walls, fuchsia furniture and bright-yellow curtains -- all trimmed with glitter and flowers.

Next up was DeAngelo, my 10-year old. He had just one simple request.

"Can I just have that Coca-Cola lamp from Nonnie's house?" he politely asked. "That's all I want. Please leave everything else alone. And I just like my walls white."

The lamp was a dusty artifact that had been stored on my mom-in-law's back porch for years. How he ever found it in the first place, I have no idea. He called Nonnie and, a day later, she hand-delivered the lamp to his bedroom doorstep. DeAngelo's decor was complete.

Maya's psychedelic setting wouldn't be so easy. We finished the fuchsia dresser and yellow curtains. I'm still working my way up to the lime-green walls. Until then, I'm devising a series of whimsical accessories to tie the wild colors together. One of which is this
flower-power wastebasket. I hope it will bring as much joy to your house as it has to ours.

Flower-Power
Whimsical Wastebasket

Supplies:

Assorted colorful plastic flowers with leaves

1 wire wastebasket

Wire nippers

Glue gun

Clear, wide strapping tape

Directions: Cut apart the fake flowers and leaves into strands. Cut the bottoms so that each strand is no longer than 4 inches. Beginning at about the third row from the bottom of the wastebasket, insert a flower through a hole. Weave the stem out and then in through a hole underneath (for security). Fold the stem downward and snip the excess. Do not cut it too short, or it will leave a sharp edge. Seal the end down with the glue gun.

Continue working in a circular motion around the basket, skipping a few holes between each flower for a more balanced, even look. Use your hand to smooth down the stems inside the basket. Use leaves throughout to fill any bald spots. If you want to create a smooth surface inside the basket, use layers of strapping tape to cover the stems.


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

Labels: home decor, inside

I saw a mirror almost exactly like this at Target in their Global Bazaar Collection. It was $50 bucks! With a tube of Delta texture paint and a mirror from Ikea, I made my own version!

Recently I was cruising the aisles of one of my favorite home décor stores when I came upon a gorgeous Indian-inspired mirror. My first thought was to buy several and arrange them in my entryway. Then I flipped the frame over and concluded the price wouldn't allow that.

Rather than give up, the crafty wheels began to turn. Ikea has great wood-frame mirrors for less than $5, and I just happened to have a stack of them (a result of a post-holiday shopping spree). With textured paint and a stencil, I was able to design my own signature set, and the cost to make four was less then the original one I saw at the store.

Indian-inspired Mirror

Supplies:
Wood frame with mirror
Water-based acrylic paint in cranberry and gold
Delta Texture Magic dimensional paint, red
Stencil with swirly designs
Popsicle stick, cotton swab
Card stock and scissors
Spray-on stencil adhesive





Directions: Cut a piece of card stock to fit over the mirror and set it in place (to protect it while you work on the frame). Apply just one coat of the cranberry paint on the frame because you want to achieve a weathered look. Let dry. In a well-ventilated area, lightly spray the adhesive on the frame and let it set for a few seconds until it becomes tacky. Lay the stencil on the frame and rub with your hands to seal it. Squeeze the textured paint from the tube onto the Popsicle stick and glide it over the frame, filling in the stenciled areas. When the entire surface is covered, peel off the stencil. Let the frame dry. If you're working with a small stencil, repeat the process. Once the frame is dry (about one hour), dab the cotton swab in the gold paint and apply it to the edges of the raised surfaces on the frame, and around the outside border. Let dry.

Tips and variations: Mix and match the colors. Stencils come in a variety of themes. The same principle can be used on walls, cabinet doors, gift boxes and even heavyweight paper for scrapbooking or altered book projects.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside, multi-culti

Here is a mixed media coaster design.
Supplies:

Tile or coasters
Spanish language newsprint
Color copy of Mexican image
White craft glue
Craft paint
Resin

Glue the newsprint to the top of the coaster. Now glue the picture in the center. Add painted accents. Coat with a thin layer of white craft glue. Mix resin according to package directions and coat. Work over a piece of wax paper so it won't stick forever to your table. Blow out gas bubbles with a straw. Let cure over night.

Put some felt tabs under the coaster so it won't scratch your table!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Cinco DeMayo, home decor, inside, Latin-inspired, outdoors, resin

I got this idea from Keri Smith's wonderful book, "Living Out Loud". It was one of the projects. Basically you paint an old jar, cut a slit in the lid and insert your secret wises and desires. Unless you wish to win the lottery or something crazy like that, it really works! Rock on, Keri!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: empowerment crafts, inside

After a week of stressful activities, the thought of relaxation time sounds pretty good. However, if you are out of Calgon bath beads and the balance in your checkbook rules out a day spa, a clever alternative will have to do.
This meditation garden will do the trick. These soothing, sand-filled boxes often are found at high-end shops and chic gallery stores. They also are sold as pricey do-it-yourself kits. Here is one example of how to assemble your own dry garden as a gift, or to keep in a special area of your home.
The idea is to focus on creating balance and harmony with the use of a small rake, sand and rocks. I used three rocks and one item for a focal point. However, the possibilities are nearly endless. Gather several rocks in diagonal corners, or use seashells and starfish for a beach theme.
There are no rules, just as long as it helps you relax.

SUPPLIES:
* 1 wood serving tray (9 1/2 by 13 inches)
* Patina paint set
* Stencil brush
* Asian-inspired coins or accessories
* Hot glue
* 2 strings of gold-tone beads
* 3 pounds of craft sand
* 1 Asian-inspired focal point
* 3 rocks
* Small rake or mini-back scratcher
DIRECTIONS: Stipple the tray with layers of Patina paints, using the stencil brush, and let dry. Affix the coins to the sides of the tray with hot glue. Repeat process to add beads around the top of the tray. Pour in sand and shake tray until the sand settles evenly. Turn tray lengthwise, and place focal point at the top. Add the rocks in a balanced design. Use the rake or back scratcher to make patterns and lines in the sand.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: empowerment crafts, garden, inside, multi-culti

At a lively party where Chardonnay is the drink of the night, lipstick on the rim of a wineglass isn't the best way to distinguish that it belongs to you. Hence, the latest trend in cocktail party decor: wineglass charms.
It's an ingenious idea -- the dangling charms look fabulous and dressy around the necks of glassware, and provide a great way to match drink to drinker. The variations are endless. In department stores these are sold in sets of four or six and are of a sleek wire design, with one dainty trinket. However, you can create your own distinctive designs. Let your imagination flow and dress your glasses to fit your style. I threaded glass seed beads onto the wire and rummaged through my jewelry chest to find interesting items to dangle. Carry the theme even further by making an extra set as napkin rings. Memory wire, pliers and beads are all you need to add a signature touch to your next soiree. Supplies can be found at craft or sewing stores.

SUPPLIES:
* 1 package of bracelet memory wire
* Needle-nose pliers
* Assorted beads
* Charms
* Jump rings
DIRECTIONS: Cut the wire into pieces measuring 6 to 8 inches each, depending on size of the glass the bracelets are for. Take the first piece and use the needle-nose pliers to bend a hook, which will act as the latch. String the beads onto the wire, leaving 1/2-inch of the wire at the end. Again, use the needle-nose pliers to create a loop for the latch to fit through. You may have to twist the loop down so the ends will connect easily. Bend the beaded ring you just made so that it is a perfect circle shape. Attach the charm to the jump ring and attach the jump ring to the beaded ring. Attach to the necks of wineglasses or rolled fabric napkins.
VARIATIONS: Use to decorate the necks of fancy glass bottles or coffee-mug handles as well.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside

With today's never-ending array of decorating materials, it's almost a crime to leave any kind of glass container in its original state.
On that note, we're diving headfirst into the crystal arena, but without the usual designated craft supplies. Instead, this project relies on ordinary household rubber cement. That's right, the smelly, gooey stuff that probably is sitting on your office-supply shelf.
Here's how it works: By applying rubber cement designs, painting over them and then carefully rubbing off the cement, a see-through faux batik effect is created. This method is best used for outer surfaces of glass containers -- to avoid food or drink contact -- which you should wash gently with soap and water.

SUPPLIES:
* Clear glass decorative container such as a vase, candy or cookie jar, bowl or pitcher
* Bottle of rubber cement
* Small squeeze bottle with thin opening
* Dark colored construction paper
* 1 or 2 colors of spray or glass paint
* Sealant (optional)
DIRECTIONS: Make sure your glass surface is clean and dry. Pour the rubber cement into the squeeze bottle and fill halfway. Before you apply your design, sketch several variations out on paper until you find a pattern you like.
Work on one area at a time. Gently apply pressure to the squeeze bottle and apply the design to the glass. Do not squeeze too hard or the rubber cement will run. Hold the design side upright until the cement dries clear and then move to the next section. Rest the construction paper on the underside of the glass if you need to see the dried patterns. When done, let it cure for several hours. In a well-ventilated area, spray an even coat of paint on the surface of the glass.
When the paint is completely dry, hold the container on your lap so that the sides do not get scraped. Starting with one area, rub your finger over the rubber cement to remove it. Do this carefully, so you do not lift or scratch the surrounding paint. You want to remove only the paint from the areas you coated with the rubber cement. Continue until all of the rubber cement is removed. Cover surface with a clear sealant, if desired.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: inside

Album art has earned a top spot among American pop-culture memorabilia.
I first became fascinated in fourth grade, when I discovered my dad's prized record collection. It was so huge that he built a floor-to-ceiling wall unit for the sole purpose of housing the hundreds of vinyl discs.
My favorite pastime was plopping down in his gold crushed-velvet oversize chair, sliding on the large cushiony headphones, plugging the jack into the receiver, and soaking in everything from Sarah Vaughan to Santana.
Later in life, the headphones came off, the volume went up, and I used my own album covers to line the walls of my bedroom.
These days, I'm a bit more conservative. I've harnessed my passion for album art, transforming an album into a sleek-looking clock that adds a dash of pop-culture charm to any room of the house.

SUPPLIES:
* 1 record album or CD cover
* Cardstock
* Scissors and/or decorative-edge scissors
* Spray paint
* Glue stick and glue gun
* Straight pin and ballpoint
* 1 clock mechanism with hands
* Small mirrors, jewels, rhinestones, squeeze paint or tiles
* Hole punch
* Thick cording or wire
DIRECTIONS: Make a color copy of the album or CD cover in the desired size. Cut a piece of the cardstock to use as a background, adding an inch or two for a border. Spray paint it in a well-ventilated area and let dry. Trim the edges of the color copy and apply it to the center of the cardstock with the glue stick.
Find the center of the image and poke a hole with the straight pin, then insert the tip of a ballpoint to enlarge the hole. Flip the piece over and trim protruding edges from the hole. Insert clock mechanism from behind and make sure the hole is big enough for the clock hands to rotate with ease. Glue the mechanism in place with a glue gun and add the clock hands to the front.
Embellish the border of your clock. I used small mirrors and silver spray paint to go with the vintage black and white theme of Eartha Kitt's sassy picture. Punch a hole on either side at the top of the clock and tie on the cording or wire for hanging.
VARIATION: This project looks best by using an original album cover, if you don't mind poking a hole in it.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, inside

For some people, creating handcrafted art is just a weekend hobby. For others, it's a way of life. Arizona native Terri Ouellette ditched her gig on Channel 3's Good Morning Arizona this past summer to find her niche in the arts and crafts world. This week, she shares a nifty project with us.
Over the years, Terri and I have shared kooky and crafty ideas, one of which was a tin picture frame. We cut a cookie sheet into strips, used a pen and magazine to score designs, and lined wood picture frames with it. We were so proud of the outcome that we traded the frames with each other.
Terri has refined that tin effort into a sophisticated metal project. Supplies can be found at crafts stores.
For a personal touch, tune in QVC at 4 a.m. Wednesday, when Terri will host a segment that features this craft as well as others.

SUPPLIES:
Wood jewelry chest with removable drawers
Gloves
LeFranc & Bourgeois metal sheets in silver and brass
LeFranc & Bourgeois metal embossing tool set
Scissors
E-6000 glue
DIRECTIONS: Remove drawers from chest. Clean the front of each drawer by removing knobs, paint, decals or designs. Wear gloves because the metal sheet has sharp edges. Working on a smooth surface, roll out the sheet. Place a drawer facedown on the metal and trace the area with one of the embossing tools. Cut the shape out with scissors, then use the piece as a template to cut enough pieces for the remaining drawers. The embossing kit comes with a soft pad to place underneath the metal. Use the tools to "draw" shapes and figures on each piece. Various effects can be added according to how much pressure is used when applying the design.
When panels are finished, glue them to the front of each drawer. Run a finger over the center to feel where the knob hole is. Use one of the embossing tools to punch a hole. Reinsert knob, glue in place and let dry.
VARIATIONS: Use the same technique to line the front of a photo album or to add edging to a shelf.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside

I admit I'm not a fan of sports.
The thought of the subject makes my face flinch as much as when I tasted liver as an 8-year-old. When I got married, part of my criteria for a husband was that he had to have a low interest as well.
So I thought it was the end of our marital bliss last year when I caught my husband glued to the TV set night after night watching baseball. Luckily, it was just the World Series -- a worthy exception.
My next scare came from the morning set of 12 News Today, where each Friday I happily trot in with my glue gun and glitter to share craft projects. My serenity ceased one day when I was approached by friendly but persistent weatherman Dave Kingmen, who confronted me with a horrifying question.
"Why don't you ever do man crafts, Kathy?" he asked. "Can you do something, like, with sports?"
"Umm, sure, I guess," I replied. I couldn't bring myself to tell him the truth. I thought for sure he would forget about it by the following week.
Not a chance.
"Hey Kathy, where's that sports project? I'm still waiting!"
To make matters more stressful, the cameraman got in on it, too: "Will you be able to do a sports project for Monday Night Football? There has to be something neat you can do."
Ack! I caved in to the pressure, and this is what I came up with. So this project is for my husband (who had fun watching me assemble it) and the morning sports fans at 12 News Today.
P.S. Forgive me if I don't have the "right teams." For that, you have to make your own snack set!
Football Snack Set
SUPPLIES
1 serving tray.
Cork coasters.
Assorted football magazines.
Poster board.
Scissors.
Glue stick.
Industrial-strength craft glue.
DIRECTIONS: Cut out various pictures and articles in different shapes and sizes from the magazine and set aside. Measure and cut the poster board to fit as a liner for the inside of the serving tray. Lay the poster board on a flat working surface and begin to lay out the magazine cutouts in an eye-appealing arrangement. When you find the design you like, use the glue stick to adhere them. Trim the excess from around the edges of the poster board. Take the decorated poster board to a local copy center, make the desired amount of color copies for use as place mats and coasters, then have each sheet laminated. Pop one into the tray for use, use one to line the top of the cork coasters (use industrial-strength craft glue) and use the remaining for place mats.
VARIATION: Make different arrangements for other sports, or use trading cards or family photos for a more personalized look.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

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

Ask any teacher about chalkboards and you'll find they are outdated tools in modern day classrooms. But home design is a different lesson altogether.
Creative chalkboard paint ideas have been popping up far and wide in everything from the Learning Channel's Trading Spaces (used on top of a child's play table) to this month's Ready Made Magazine, in which a speech bubble was painted on the wall above the bed.
With colored chalk in hand, you, too, can enjoy functional art that can be altered at any moment to fit your mood. These chalkboard TV trays make great interactive conversation pieces when used at adult or kid parties. Speaking of teaching tools -- if you find another idea for chalkboard paint, feel free to share it with others on the Crafty Ideas message board at
home.azcentral.com.

Chalkboard TV Trays
SUPPLIES:
Folding TV trays with wood tops.
1 can spray primer.
1 can of green or black chalkboard spray paint.
Jute trim.
Hot glue.
Chalk.
DIRECTIONS: Work in a well-ventilated area. Lightly sand the top of the tray, then spray on a layer of primer and let dry. Spray on two to three layers of the chalkboard paint, letting each coat dry in between. Use hot glue to attach jute around the edge of the tray.
VARIATIONS: Other types of trim can be used in place of jute. Use the same method on 18- by 12-inch pieces of thin hardboard to make place mats. To make moveable speech bubbles for above your bed, cut out the hardboard into shapes using a jigsaw. Hang with picture-hanging attachments.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: back to school, inside, kids