At Home With Crab Apple Designs

Renegade Craft Fair: Holiday Austin

2011-11-21T23:07:00.001-06:00

It is so so busy around the house these days - mostly because we are getting ready for the Austin Holiday Renegade Craft Fair. Yahoo! This will be our 3rd Renegade Craft Fair and I love, love, love. It. The first time, I nearly cried at all of the wonderfulness there was to see. It is free and so worth it! Please come and find us in booth #67, across from Stella the Airstream trailer (aka Wondercraft).

Here is one of our hot items you can find at the show...

Back to work!

xoxo

Owls Coloring Page: Day 7 of 7

2011-11-13T14:26:00.001-06:00

Free coloring pages every day for a week! That was REALLY fun! <3

Here is the final page: an assortment of my owls. These would be fun to print on sticker paper or printable shrink plastic.

For those of you who are really into owls, I just made a new set of owl Christmas cards.

And because I love owls myself, I have a bazillion other owl themed goodies in my shop, including this fun owl collage notebook.

xoxoxo

Free Coloring Page Day 6: Abstract

2011-11-12T10:55:00.001-06:00

My mom used to draw these coloring pages for me. It's easy to do it yourself. Just draw a bunch of wavy lines.

Here is an example of one I colored in a while back. This a great excuse to try out new supplies and to experiment with color combinations.

xoxoxo

Free Coloring Page Day 5: Monsters

2011-11-11T13:10:00.001-06:00

Coloring Page Freebie Day 4 - Flowers

2011-11-10T09:11:00.001-06:00

Freebie Coloring Page Day 3

2011-11-09T09:51:00.002-06:00

It's day 3 of a week of free coloring pages. Today's page is a digital drawing, a page from my Cupcake Coloring Book. In the coloring book, there is a thematic page for each month of the year, featuring the best food ever: cupcakes.

If you like it, you can buy the download here. If you prefer to buy the printed book, go here.

Cupcakes All Year Round by Melissa Stewart

And if you are the crafty type, here are a couple of cupcake pages to print out for crafts.

And for you hard-core cupcake fans, here are all of the cupcake themed goodies I have in my shop.

Happy Coloring!

A Week of Coloring Pages: Day 2

2011-11-08T08:53:00.003-06:00

This design features of few of my characters called, "Friends." You can add teeth to the flowers if you want.

A Week of Coloring Pages: Day 1

2011-11-07T09:34:00.004-06:00

Here is number 1 of a week of Coloring Pages. Enjoy!

Paint Sample Butterflies

2011-11-05T14:59:00.004-05:00

While looking for more ways to use up scraps of paint samples left over from various projects, I decided to try this:

All you need is paper and a few supplies: scoring tool, ruler and paper punch. I used a butterfly punch from ek success because it has the antennae.

Here's the project I did with the cards initially: coasters.

Photographing the butterflies is as much fun as making them!

This is a fun and SUPER simple craft. Glue them on cards, magnets... lots of possibilities.

Paint Sample Christmas Tree Card

2011-11-04T13:42:00.004-05:00

I have lots of paint sample scraps left over from different projects.

This was a fun way to use a few to make a holiday card. All you need is a circle hole punch (I used 3/4"), glue, and paint sample cards.

Making paint sample coasters continues to be a fun way for me to experiment with different color combinations and to participate in Etsy's regular color specific features.

Yay for paint samples!

September and Drawing Weirdos

2011-09-18T14:29:00.006-05:00

September is an exciting month! I had my birthday, and the best present was reaching 1000 sales in my Etsy shop. To celebrate, I am sharing a coupon code for 20% off that you may use all month: CADBLOG20

******

Lately, even crafty endeavors have a wishing-for-rain theme.

This guy is a hand cut applique from my series of characters called, "Friends." You can find them exclusively at Green House in Austin right now.

******

I love Ed Emberley's approach to teaching drawing. He demonstrates one step at a time. This book is one of my favorites: Ed Emberley's Little Drawing Book of Weirdos.

Now you can learn how to draw a werewolf Ed Emberly style:

Happy Birthday Virgos!

Sewing the Vinyl, Wrecking My Home

2011-07-26T22:06:00.006-05:00

A year and a half after moving back to Austin, I have finally begun *seriously* sewing again. The glorious stack of glitter vinyl I've owned for years is unpacked and getting hacked to bits.

After a few failed attempts at making phone cozies from vinyl, 1 tall drink, near tears - I googled "sewing with vinyl." Lots of good advice, why did I wait so long?!?

I chose the method of wax paper on top AND bottom of the fabric. Sigh, sigh, sigh, relief, relief, relief. For your entertainment, see the before (hideous twisted deformed thing), middle (wax paper just on top) and after - which you can see here.

These are a special little batch of geekery for an upcoming event: Tribe's Indie Comic Art Show. Thanks to Thrillist for giving us a little love today.

On the dark side, it seems our kitty may have snorted up a bit of something from the pile of sewing and crafty goodness. We are experiencing sneezing fits.

Our living room is wrecked by my heart is full. Of glitter vinyl goodness.

Free July 4 Coloring Page

2011-07-04T11:11:00.003-05:00

Enjoy!

An Easter Gift for You!

2011-04-19T12:52:00.006-05:00

Hello Friends! Would you like a full page sized pdf of this Easter Bunny coloring sheet?

All you need to do is "like" my page Crab Apple Designs on Facebook and send me a message with your email address that you did it. I will email you the full sized pdf of this drawing I did over the weekend.

<3 Melissa

Visit to Lego Land

2011-03-09T22:22:00.004-06:00

Recently I had the thrill of a visit to Lego Land! It was an abbreviated visit, but still. LEGOS!

Here are some of the Lego-licious views:

We scored excellent souvenirs from the Lego shop. Here are some of the goodies:

Now I have some inspiration for new Lego crafts. Coming soon... xoxo

Rainbow Love

2011-02-19T08:10:00.012-06:00

Yesterday I freaked out over this page from a 1980 Flash comic. Gorgeous. Maybe you can do something crafty with it?

I especially love this era of Flash because the superhero's name is the same as my husband. Not "Flash" but "Barry," hee hee.

A delish rainbow treasury including my recycled paint sample coasters by rockpilewest.

At night I have been working on a rainbow granny square afghan. My first!

More rainbow themed goodness from Etsy Treasuries here.

I also have stuff tagged "rainbow" in my shop:

Fortune Cookie Zip Pouch

2011-02-18T08:23:00.007-06:00

If you know me, you know I get my best ideas in the middle of the night when I can't sleep. Today, the latest idea came to me in the form of a Facebook post by Present and Correct. They linked to this super cool fortune cookie coin purse on Diana Eng.

I decided to try one of my own!

This is rather impractical as a good coin purse, but it is still cute.

I didn't have a little sew on snap, so I had to improvise with a hook and eye.

I Googled for a tutorial, but there was none such thing out there! So I looked at tutorials on how to make fortune cookies and just fiddled around to make the zipper work. The zipper is tricky, but felt is pretty forgiving. I plan to try again with a snap and the benefit of some experience.

Geekly Weekly: Who's The Man?

2011-01-24T07:57:00.001-06:00

Geekly Weekly: Who's The Man?

Yay, thanks Tracey Knits!

SHORT stories - The Deep - PES

2011-01-11T12:47:00.001-06:00

This is sooo cool! I have watched it 3 times... I wish it could be my screensaver!

Some Cool Things

2011-01-11T11:40:00.006-06:00

There are so many cool things to share!

Lots of exciting things are happening in the Crab Apple world.

In December, we had the opportunity to have a table at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. We showcased vintage kid book and comic book journals, buttons, and mirrors.

This month, loads of journals will be part of the grand opening of the 114 boutique in Smithville, Texas. Here is a preview of some notebooks that were specially made for the 114 opening.

The very popular Black ABC poster cards are now available as a set of post cards. Hooray!

During the post holiday slow time, I had the chance to go through some boxes of paper ephemera. I thought I would share a few of the goodies. Enjoy!

Talking Carl Doll Tutorial

2010-10-16T16:02:00.014-05:00

Talking Carl Stuffed Doll or Plushie Tutorial

Materials:
2 pieces of 18 inch x 18 inch red felt
1 piece of 18 inch x 18 inch gray felt
black and white felt scraps for eyes
thread
paper for pattern drawing
stuffing

Draw pattern on paper.

Draw a half-inch seam allowance around the outside of the body of your sketch. I used a red line.

Cut out pattern along red line.

Fold the pattern in half to make sure it is symmetrical.

Draw arms, eyes, pupils, and mouth patterns. I used the "big mouth" version of Talking Carl.

Cut out the patterns for the body parts. One boo-boo.... It should say "x4" on the arms.

Cut out the body and body parts from the paper pattern.

This is what you should have so far:

Now, make the gray mouth by following the sketch on the front body pattern and adding a 1/2 inch seam allowance around the mouth. I used chalk to draw on the "wrong" side of the felt.

Cut out the mouth, allowing for the seam allowance.

Cut out the mouth "dangley part" out of red felt and pin it onto the gray mouth "opening." Pin and stitch.

Trace the mouth shape (not with seam allowance) on the wrong side of the body front with chalk.

Cut a slit in the middle of where the mouth will be.

Continue cutting along the chalk line to make the opening for the mouth. Match up the right side of the mouth under the right side of the body front (mouth opening) and PIN it really carefully. Make sure there is plenty of seam allowance under the mouth opening. Stitch on the right (top side) through both pieces, close to the edge of the red felt.

This is what it looks like when you're done:

And here is what the back looks like:

Cut out, pin, and stich arms, leaving straight edge open. Stuff the arms.

Pin white eye pieces together. Stitch, leaving a 1 inch gap. Turn and stuff.

Figure out where you want the pupils to be on the eyeballs...

Pin stuffed arms facing inward on the right side of the body front.

Tack the arms down with a few stitches close to the edge. Put right sides of the 2 body pieces together and sew around the body, leaving a 3 inch opening at the bottom on the straight edge of one of the feet.

Clip curves and snip corner between the legs.

Turn the body right side out, using a chopstick to poke out corners.

Now Carl will look like this:

Using white thread, stitch the bottoms of each stuffed eyeball closed. Then use a whipstitch to sew the eyes to the rounded corners of the top of the head.

Using black thread, sew the felt pupil pieces to the white eyeballs. I made mine looking up. Then pin the seam allowance down on the opening of the body to prevent stretching of the felt while you stuff the body.

Stuff the body full of toy stuffing.

When the body feels nice and full, use red thread to whipstitch the bottom opening closed.

Ta-da!!

Stitch Lab Classes and General Craftiness

2010-10-13T13:46:00.010-05:00

Lately, my favorite crafty treat is taking sewing classes at Stitch Lab. It is a super-cool fabric store and crafty school. The instructors are all cool ladies - very patient and knowledgeable. And I'm learning to make time to do crafty stuff just for fun and for ME. Another perk - getting to work through my ridiculous collection of fabric.

Here are some of the goodies that I have made this fall:

My "Monster" from a Plushy Doll class with Haley...

Baby Gift Sets with Haley...

Pouches and Mini-Wallets with Anne-Marie...

This is from my favorite class so far because it was on a subject I've been wanting to learn more about: Applique with Becky...

All this felt craftiness is getting to be an addictive habit! I was inspired to make a felt hair clip after I lost my favorite one a few weeks ago.

And here is a little peek at a tutorial I'm working on inspired by the Plushy Doll class. Hopefully I'll be all done and have the tutorial ready this weekend:

Vintage Airmail Stickers

2010-07-09T14:08:00.006-05:00

There must be lots of people out there who love mail, postage and airmail ephemera. This is the most popular item in my shop. I just spent the morning making a new bundle of these guys and thought it would be nice to share them with the world.

This set of vintage airmail stickers comes in a package of 6 sheets of unique labels. The images are scans of my personal collection of airmail labels. I have them professionally printed on full sheet label paper. That means you cut them apart as you need them and peel the back off when you are ready to stick 'em.

The entire set can be found here in my shop. Long live mail!

Giveaway Fun!

2010-06-28T08:21:00.007-05:00

Digital Scrapbook Designer Michelle Underwood is hosting a number of giveaways on her blog, including one for a $20 gift certificate to Crab Apple Design's Etsy shop.

In a recent post on her blog "This Crazy Life," Michelle made it super easy for readers to submit multiple entries for her giveaway. She put lots of effort into composing a review of one of my products, the Hootie Hoot Owl Organizer.

I am impressed and grateful to her for dedicating the time and energy to make such a thoughtful post about my company. She is really helping to get the word out about Crab Apple Designs.

About Michelle: she designs digital scrapbook kits for my favorite online paper supply store, Two Peas in a Bucket. If you are not familiar with this store, I love it because it always has the best and most current releases of my favorite designs.

Michelle's kits are easy to download and really user-friendly. I hope to use some of her elements in new line of collages I am currently working on.

When Michelle contacted me, I immediately went shopping AND PURCHASED one of her affordable kits. It was hard to choose just one! Here it is and I love it.

She also has many freebies on her website, which you can find here. The amount of giveaways she hosts is substantial. I recommend adding her blog to the list of ones you visit daily. She has great taste and the giveaway items are handmade and just the kinds of things I would buy if I knew about them.

Crab Apple Designs loves Michelle Underwood! Go check out her blog to find out how easy it is to win good stuff!

To Scan or Not to Scan?

2010-06-17T09:38:00.005-05:00

My favorite source for vintage images is the Golden Book Encyclopedia 0f Natural Science series from the 1960s.

I use the images for buttons, mirrors, cards, and for my *thrilling* new line of journals and organizers with cutout images sandwiched between thick plastic covers.

These volumes are so full of fun graphics that cutting out one picture usually means sacrificing an equally cool image on the back page.

In an effort to comfort myself, I have started to create my own catalog of some of my favorite images. I thought I would share one of recent scans....

Enjoy! xo, melissa

Shrink Plastic Adventures, Part 2

2010-05-28T20:02:00.008-05:00

I am playing around with different ways to seal the ink on printable shrink plastic. My last attempt resulted in very "bleedy" ink and an undesirable effect overall, as seen in this blog post.

My next adventure in shrink plastic sealing begins with doing what I should have done in the first place: read and follow directions.

I took a handful of inkjet Shrinky Dinks and sprayed them with Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic coating. This is how I did it:

1. I followed the directions on the can: shake for 2 minutes, hold about 12 inches away, spray with a quick sweep. It was probably hotter outside than the maximum recommended temperature, but I did store the Krylon inside.

2. Let it dry for 15 minutes.

Here are the results:

After one coat, it was very difficult to see any kind of sheen, much less a "gloss." So after 15 minutes, I resprayed...

After the second coat dried, a sheen was visible, although I would still not call it a "glossy" effect. In the photo below, there is a strange yellowness to the ink, and I think it may be an artifact of my camera or the fading light.

Inside under a fluorescent light, the sheen is more visible but you have to look closely to find it. There is also evidence of a "grit" that some folks at Craftster referred to that happens when you use glossy coat spray.

I sprayed a few of the pieces with a third coat of Krylon with no noticeable difference.

Next:
These pieces have 2 coats of Krylon and group 1 has an additional coat of a brush on gloss coating called "Triple Thick." Group 2 has a clear dimensional goo called "Glossy Accents" which I have used on paper with great success.

The results were close, but I have a slight preference for the charms with the Glossy Accents because it is REALLY glossy and there is a dimension to them that is not as noticeable with the brush on Triple Gloss.

More of the Glossy Accents charms:

The more "matte" look of the Triple Gloss charms:

Next I will try using UTEE, but for now, my conclusion: DEFINITELY seal the shrinky dinks with Krylon spray before applying a brush on or squeeze on gloss coat to avoid ink bleeding.

Shrink Plastic Adventures, Part 1

2010-05-28T16:05:00.007-05:00

Shrink plastic, Shrinky Dinks. Whatever. They are super-cool.

I like to put charms on my notebooks, which is simple when you use a game board to make a notebook...just drill yo-self a hole in one of the game pieces and there's your charm.

For my laminated notebooks, I was using store bought silver colored charms when I could find good ones, but I really want handmade charms to put on my notebooks. The answer has to be Shrink Plastic.

I'm no stranger to Shrinky Dinks and have made lots of boo boos with them. Specifically, I have found that the inkjet ones are susceptible to loosing their ink.

I am trying to learn how best to seal the "shrinked" image to preserve the design AND to give it a glossy finish.

I read all over Craftster to get ideas. Craftster is great.

I tried some of the ideas, and probably due to my lack of attention to detail (ie, don't read directions), I got disappointing results.

Some folks say use a spray acrylic clear gloss. I didn't have that hanging around but I did have two of the items suggested on Craftster:

1) Triple Thick Gloss Coating by DecoArt
2) Glossy Accents by Ranger

Note: Other suggestions were UTEE and clear nail polish.

So post shrinking, I slathered on a really thick layer of each of these. Here's what it looked like immediately after applying the goo:

Next, I check back 4 hours later and...

Darn. Ink bleedage. Close up...

Neither product was really designed for the purpose of sealing ink onto shrink plastic, and the directions on the ink jet Shrinky Dinks specifically recommend Krylon Acrylic Coat spray.

Now I am going to try this again, with Krylon spray underneath and photos of results will follow....

Etsy Sellers and Goodies from the Renegade Fair

2010-05-28T15:22:00.009-05:00

As promised, here are some of the goodies I scored at the recent Austin Renegade Fair.

I pretty much freaked out at the Pretty Good Things booth. I had to ask for something "conservative" to arrive at this very cute and COMFORTABLE headband. (Most headbands give me a headache in about 5 minutes) She has lovely things, including an awesome bird nest headband, but I am in no way cool enough to wear such accessories. Nevertheless, I found several necessities to love.

Danielle Maveal had a number of retro vintagey designs on silver pendants. It was difficult to choose, but I loved the birds (and the cameras, squirrels, and mushrooms!) and I really liked the scalloped edges on this one.

Krank Press is not from Texas but was thoughtful enough to create Texas Produce Calendars for the Austin Renegade show. I love, love, LOVE letterpress and could not resist this item.

I have long been a fan of etsy's YourSecretAdmrial. Everything in her shop is absolutely heart-able, and we share a love of airmail ephemera. Her hand bound books are so so good. I was delighted to be able to buy one from her booth although it was very difficult to make my choice. I decided on a palm sized book suitable for a tiny purse, although I doubt I will be able to bring myself to write in it. Flipping though it is highly satisfying.

Although not on Etsy, Jenny Hart of Sublime Stitching is worth mentioning since she is based out of Austin, Texas just like me, and...I had a few crafty rock star moments at the fair, and one involved visiting the Sublime Stitching Booth. I have 2 of Jenny Hart's books and her stitch-able stationery set. Now I have these 2 cool goodies as well:

Yay, Renegade Craft Fair!

Renegade Craft Fair

2010-05-24T14:19:00.009-05:00

It was my first big show, and TONS of fun. If you live in a town that hosts a Renegade Craft Fair, GO because you won't be disappointed.

I took a few photos with my camera so I could have a few memories to take with me. Here is my booth...

You can find the list of Austin vendors at the show at the Renegade Craft Fair website. I did a little shopping and over the next week plan to share photos and shopping info on some of the yummy goodies I brought home with me.

The Lone Star Ladies Present: Shop Austin 2010

2010-04-15T13:15:00.003-05:00

Crab Apple Designs (that's me, hee hee) will be one of many vendors at this very cool Austin shopping experience this Saturday, April 17.

This is the "2nd Annual" Shop Austin event, and friends who attended last year said it was FANTASTIC and so worth it to have a chance to browse, relax, snack, and get a first hand look at local handmade talent.

Come see us!

Measuring Tape Giveaway Winner(s)!

2010-04-02T06:40:00.003-05:00

Hello friends! Thank you to the folks who participated in the measuring tape love giveaway. We have 2 winners: Life Made Creations in 1st place as the winner of a measuring tape journal. A runner up winner of a measuring tape pocket mirror is Butterfly. Thank you both for entering, and please send me a message with your addresses!

Melissa.madison@gmail.com

Thanks again for visiting my blog and for entering. I hope to see you back soon!
Yours,
Melissa

Giveaway! Measuring Tape Love!

2010-03-19T14:47:00.005-05:00

More delish Treasury Love. Been wanting to do one like this myself, so I am dee-lited to see this Treasury titled, "Measure Up" by michvanetta. What is it about old school style measuring tape?

In honor of this treasury, and for the sewing inspiration that always accompanies the onset of spring, I am giving away a measuring tape notebook.

To enter the giveaway, post something sweet on my blog, for instance: What's so great about Spring? For a double entry, post a cool blog or website link to a fun sewing craft idea.

Winner announced April 1st. <3

Treasury Love

2010-03-14T22:17:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone.

I rarely if ever post personal information since this blog is my crafty business outlet, but here is some personal stuff anyway.

I'm moving. The kind of move that forces you to put everything on hold. For the first time since I've started my business, I am forced to put the brakes on creating while I pack up and move all of my supplies and material goodies. I didn't shut down my shop when I was sick in bed for 6 weeks last fall or during a mind-blowing nightmare of a divorce that started a year ago in January. Leave it to moving to be the one thing that is really disruptive to the creative process. Hee hee.

In the meantime, I am so grateful to the fellow crafters who have been promoting me via the etsy treasury system. I've been so fortunate with treasuries lately! I am very grateful to 2 considerate crafters who included me in these awesome treauries: "Cheer Up" and "Cotton Candy."

The "Cheer Up" Treasury by Sewingkat2 is like a pastel rainbow, yahoo!

The "Cotton Candy" Treasury is by my new bestest Etsy friend Filomene. The treasury has expired, but look how delicious:

Audrey, the crafter behind Filomene and DOUDOUbyfilomene is responsible for the single most successful day I've had on Etsy. Her feature of my yellow paint notebook on a recent Treasury (see my last post) led to the notebook being included in last weekend's Etsy Finds called "Born Again." Below is my notebook with 1000 views (up from only 64 earlier that day)! At least 5 sales came from this feature, so.. Thanks, Audrey! *HUG!!*

I will be so relieved and happy when I'm moved into my new studio and I have the space, time, and emotional energy to create things again. Just a few weeks to go! At that time, I plan to return the good karma by trying for some treasuries of my own. My love to all my supportive crafter friends and everyone out there who is MOVING!

Sunny Yellow Treasury

2010-02-28T18:59:00.002-06:00

Thank you DOUDOU by filomene for including me in your fun yellow themed treasury!

Happy Mardi Gras!

2010-02-16T15:50:00.004-06:00

LOST themed Treasury!

2010-02-06T21:55:00.004-06:00

The very generous CleverBetty gathered a fun "Lost" themed treasury and included one of my items along a number of fun handmade goodies! I just watched my first episode of Lost this week (ever!) so now I'm even more curious to learn how each of these items is related to the show. Thanks CleverBetty! Visit her shop for lovely handmade bags and clutches made from reclaimed fabric AND to check out her FREE SHIPPING sale for February. Yahoo!

Owl Coloring Book in Progress

2010-02-04T10:20:00.003-06:00

Here is a preview of my latest digital design project: an owl themed coloring book. Titled, "Owls All Around," it is an alphabet book with owls doing silly things for each letter. The book features these characters, which are still a bit rough. Stay tuned for more sneak previews!

I Heart Handmade Continues!

2010-01-29T07:55:00.007-06:00

Friends! If you haven't done a little handcrafted valentine themed shopping, check out IndieHandmade's I Heart Handmade Valentine Market. Lots of promotions are featured including free shipping on MANY items.

Check out their blog to see some yummy goodies on their "love list" and click on the image to zip over to the I Heart Handmade Blog where you can click to shop for each of these cool items.

Hoot! at FoundHandmade & A Valentine Treasury

2010-01-26T15:01:00.006-06:00

Oh, to be featured in a treasury! It always makes my day. Always!! On top of that, a feature on the FoundHandmade Blog featuring owls. Hoot!

There we are in the top left corner... among a dazzling array of so cool owl goodies. I currently have about 12 tabs of etsy owl goodies open right now so that I can take a closer look at these beauties.

FoundHandmade is a fun way to quickly shop for a ton of fun goodies all at once. All you have to do is scroll over the little boxes to see larger photos of the items. It's like playing Minesweeper but shopping for handmade goodies instead of trying not to get blown up. Go here to see what I mean.

This fun heart-themed treasury has my stickers in it but look at those cookies!! I love to see something of mine featured among such talented handmade artists. Visit this treasury's designer trecivettesulcomo 's Etsy shop to see an impressive assortment of vintage and new buttons (my weakness).

Thank you FoundHandmade and trecivettesulcomo for taking the time to include my products on your websites.

Free Card, Just Because

2010-01-19T20:59:00.001-06:00

Enjoy!

Pink Week Giveaway!

2010-01-19T08:08:00.002-06:00

The lovely Teresa from Blooming on Bainbridge is hosting a fun week of giveaways with a "pink" theme. Her goodies include several Crab Apple items among lots of other cute things. Please visit her Pink Week Giveaway and show her some love!

I Heart Handmade

2010-01-17T17:08:00.003-06:00

Wowee! Visit I Heart Handmade's Valentine Market. All of the shops are offering special promotions. My shop is offering FREE SHIPPING, as are several of the others. Amazing! Please take the time to shop around, it is definitely worth it. Thank you!! x0 melissa

Cupcake Embroidery Part 3

2010-01-13T17:29:00.005-06:00

As promised, here is an update on turning cupcake coloring book pages into embroidery patterns and then actually doing the embroidery part!

See my previous post for the original pattern and for the transfer pattern.

For this pattern, I traced the image on tracing paper.

I used supplies from Jenny Hart's Stitch-It Kit...

I trimmed the pattern and pinned it down onto the lovely fabric included in the kit...

I used a split stitch for the letters and a back stitch for the cupcake bottom...all done within an episode of Days of Our Lives...

After removing the tracing paper, the cupcake "stump" is complete!

Next step is to finish up this little project by embroidering the frosting....an update with photos in my next post.

How to Turn a Jpeg into an Embroidery Pattern

2010-01-13T10:58:00.005-06:00

Here is a nice link to a tutorial to follow by ReginaE of Ehow with directions on how to convert a jpeg image into an embroidery pattern. Note: transfer paper is on the supply list.

I used my version of Photoshop Elements to convert one of the cupcakes from last week's pattern into a transfer image.

This image can be printed on iron on transfer paper for light colors and used as a template. I'm going to try it and will post pictures of how it's going! Will also try it with plain ole tracing paper, too.

Freebie: Cupcake Coloring Page & Embroidery Pattern

2010-01-09T14:05:00.005-06:00

Super-cool Jennifer Perkins of The Naughty Secretary Club offers a Crafty Business Seminar at Stitch Lab in Austin, TX. As a present to myself, I finally decided to go for it and take her class. It was A-W-E-S-O-M-E.

She suggested that coloring book pages could also be embroidery templates. That idea totally blew my mind. So this week, my goal is to embroider something using one of my coloring pages.

Here is a free cupcake embroidery pattern for you (formerly known as a coloring page). Send me a picture of your work and I'll post it RIGHT HERE! Let's promise to do it by January 31, K?
xo-m

Will you join me in trying this? Might I suggest this extra fun kit available from Sublime Stitching to help get you started?

My One Hundred and Eleventyith Sale!

2009-12-06T01:26:00.007-06:00

I've always wanted a reason to say "hundred and eleventyith." And now I have one! Today my etsy sales number reached 111.

In celebration, a prize must be awarded.

Up for grabs is one of the 4 hand cut owl collages seen below. Each is 8 inches x 10 inches with about 1/4" of dimensionality.

How to enter:

1) Choose your favorite of the 4 and comment on this post telling me which one is your favorite.
2) Share a link to a favorite crafty blog of yours and you will be entered to win your favorite owl!
3) If you get a friend to enter, your name will go into the "bag" for each friend you refer. Make sure your friend says that you sent them my way so's you can get credit for the referral.

4) HERE's THE HITCH/FINE PRINT/CATCH: In order for this contest to be "ON," there must be a minimum of 11 unique/different entries. In other words, a minimum of 11 different people need to enter the contest by the deadline in order for this contest to be ON. So get going, people!!

On January 1, 2010, I will select the winner. The winning entry will receive the owl collage she chose as her favorite. Yahoo!

Anything You Can Do...

2009-12-03T11:02:00.004-06:00

...I can do...after watching you do it 80 hundred times, stopping and starting the youtube video every 1.2 seconds, and practicing it with 3 miles of yarn.

An excellent crochet flower tutorial from LittleBirdieSecrets can be found here. And yet, even with all of that help, I remain crochet-impaired. The proof is below...all 5 are from the same video with the same VERY simple baby steps. !!!

Vintage Game Pieces Charm Bracelet

2009-12-02T00:07:00.003-06:00

This is a project I have been planning to try for a veeeery long time. Finally, a completed bracelet! I don't know a thing about jewelry making...what are the best jump rings? Do you solder stuff to make it more sturdy? Is it okay to use craft store findings? I DUNNO. But I think it's cute.

Also, please see my Etsy favorites on the right of your screen and consider buying one of those awesome flower scarves. Aren't they lovely? If I weren't worn down with mono, I would make a collage or try to get a treasury (don't know how to do that either!) or something.

xo melissa

A Fabulous Shop Update, If I May Say So!

2009-11-06T23:21:00.004-06:00

Oh, there are goodies in the shop and a fresh new batch that I am super excited about!

-New Eye Candy Binder/Organizers in ROCKIN Sassafras Lass papers
-Mail-a-Books in crazy beautiful Que Sera Sera patterned papers
-A new item I have introduced called "Pound O Paper"

In the next shop update, there will be awesome new laminated luggage tags from our favorite papers, awesome 3d bird stickers, glittered Christmas cards, and butterfly collages. WHOA.

Plus, a new set of freakin' awesome vintage game board journals. So STAY TUNED!!!

Mail-a-Book

2009-11-04T20:39:00.003-06:00

These little journals fit right into a standard sized envelope. Suspecting that extra postage will be needed if you plan to mail them.

It's Mail-A-Book! The whole set of about 12 of them is made from the K&Co Que Sera Sera paper collection. Love that line.

They will be in the next shop update, tomorrow afternoon!

These Paperchase image mirrors and new owl postcards were in today's update:

Bird Collage Stickers

2009-11-02T15:01:00.006-06:00

Here are some of my new *leg-less* bird collage stickers.

If you come to my "At Home Craft Night" on November 22, we will learn how to make these and use them on cards.

Check in the shop for these soon! With legs!!

Christmas Owls for Postcards

2009-10-30T08:39:00.006-05:00

Hello friends and owl-lovers,
This year, I plan to make Christmas cards using 4 owl collage images. My plan is to make postcards and sell them in packages of 4 or more. Postcards in bulk are relatively inexpensive, and therefore I can pass the savings on to you! If interest is high, I will consider doing 6 images rather than 4.

Below is image number one. My plan is to do 2 with red and green as the predominant colors, one with blue and white with some green, and one multicolor (that is the one below).

If you think you might be interested in purchasing sets of these postcards as your holiday/new year's cards, leave me a comment with the number of cards you would consider purchasing. This will give me an idea of how many to have printed. The more cards that are printed, the cheaper they are! And the better bargain YOU will get, so if you like these images, tell your friends!

More owl collage images for you...

Peppermint Candy Patterned Paper

2009-10-29T22:06:00.005-05:00

I'm not too happy with this year's commercially produced holiday patterned paper...too vintagey, too dark. Too much RED. Plus, I need smaller repeating pattens for collage work and I'm seeing too many large patterns or "scenes."

So, I'm making my own!! Have fun!

This time, for real, I am actually going to GOCCO!

2009-10-20T08:02:00.003-05:00

It's time to face my fear of Gocco. Here is the image. SHIVERS!!!

Today's Freebie: Rainbow Polka Dotted Polka Dots

2009-10-19T08:00:00.002-05:00

Yay for using patterns in Inkscape!

Freebie Stickers

2009-10-18T12:19:00.012-05:00

I am still in the digital phase of designing my own patterned paper. Once I move on to more of a collage look, I will share resources like I promised in an earlier post.

For digital drawings, I use Inkscape. It's free and works on both Windows and PC. Once you complete a drawing, you choose "export bitmap" which saves the document as a .png file. Then you can open it up in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements (like I have) and fiddle with it a bit. The result is something like this - today's freebie:

When making patterns from objects, I find it easier to think in terms of a "sticker sheet" type format, then expand it into a repeating pattern. There are some good Inkscape tutorials out there. For now, I'll just say that you should "group" your images and drag one of the corners to make them smaller. When they are tiny enough to please you, use the "tiled clone" feature to create a repeating pattern.

Here is a smaller repeating pattern:

And here is an even smaller repeating pattern:

Another variation: stripes!

October Open House Party: Dia De Los Muertos & Halloween on Oct. 25

2009-10-17T18:54:00.004-05:00

More details on my Facebook Fan Page!

Eye Candy Organizers

2009-10-13T16:43:00.006-05:00

Since the age of 9, I believed that a laminating machine was an essential household appliance. Now that I finally have one, I intend to laminate everything without legs.

My brand new product is now HERE! "Eye Candy Organizers" - laminated covers and tabs with all kinds of custom options. I've started with my favorite double sided papers and thanks to the beauty of lamination, both sides are enjoyed! Hooray! This first batch contains papers by Sassafrass Lass, Martha Stewart, and K and Company. Their brilliant designers are what put the candy in these babies.

These are "half sheet" sized ( 9 inches by 6 inches) with papers cut to a smaller size by about a quarter of an inch all around. Laminated pouches that are 10 mil thick (super rigid) are used for the front, back, and for any divider pages. This is an excellent weight for plastic covers in my opinion. I really love the glossy effect created by the plastic coating. Corners are rounded and binder rings are in coordinating colors.

The beauty is that you can reuse these lovely organizers once the pages are full. All you need is a standard 2 hole punch and you can have all of these in one:
-calendar
-pockets for coupons, receipts
-sketchbook
-lined or grid paper
-patterned paper
-scrapbook
-art journal
-class notes
-address book
-message pad
-to do list
-!!!??? something pretty to look at!

These organizers will be listed in the store this week. Each one is fully customizable; you may order it full of paper with a larger or small binder ring OR describe your dream organizer and I will build it for you.

You can add your own bits and papers by acquiring a standard 2 hole punch which is available at any office supply store for a few dollars.

Lots more photos are on my flickr site under the "Eye Candy Organizer" set. Hooray!

Spinners

2009-10-11T21:18:00.002-05:00

Over the weekend, I played around with some digital drawings with the idea of creating a set of thematic images to use for card making, journaling, scrapbooking, etc. Right now, I have "games" on my mind. I just won a lot of 125 vintage board games on ebay and I'm still pinching myself about it. In particular, I love those old spinners!

So here are a couple of spinners for you to play with:

Making my Own Patterned Paper

2009-10-10T03:08:00.004-05:00

It is TIME for me to learn how to design my own patterned paper. It's either that or bankruptcy via Archivers and Two Peas in a Pod. *SIGH* DAMN YOU SASSAFRASS! Just kidding, Sassafrass Lass papers inspire me daily...but I want to learn how to do it, too.

So I'm experimenting with some patterns with layering of images...dare I call it digital collage? That doesn't sound as fun somehow.

Anyway, here is my first attempt.

In my next post, I'll share some resources I found for tutorials on how to create your own patterned paper as well as some good spots for finding royalty-free images.

Homemade Rocket Pop Crayons

2009-09-19T17:29:00.003-05:00

I've been wanting to try this for so, so long. And here are the results of attempt number 1.

I melted crayon bits in the microwave for this project, then poured. The splashing is an annoyance because I wanted clean lines. I intended to make "rainbow pops" but poured too much in the beginning because I couldn't see what I was doing.

So they are kinda funky.

But they color GREAT! I'm gonna try again as soon as I feel like peeling wrappers off of 100 crayons.

Vintage Pattern Restoration

2009-09-12T20:58:00.003-05:00

I have a box of fun but really battered old patterns. It would be fun to do something crafty with them, so I decided to take a stab at digital "restoration." Here are the results:

This was the in-between version, where I removed what I felt was unsightly wear, but kept the authenticity.

Does anyone have an opinion on which is better? I am thinking about making a few journals and cards out of these...

FREEBIES! Old US Air Mail Postage Stamps

2009-09-05T17:50:00.003-05:00

These are so cool! I found them in a huge stamp collection I won on ebay. They were the only US air mail stamps in among hundreds. I just had to scan them to have them for keeps. Then I thought, HEY! Everyone who loves stamps should be able to play with these, too.

Enjoy!

Making Pinbacks from Old Postage Stamps

2009-09-05T10:11:00.003-05:00

Here's a little behind-the-scenes fun for you. I won't call it a tutorial, because the equipment needed to do this is prohibitively expensive; a very generous family member purchased this for me and I'm still in the clouds over it.

Making pinback buttons is the bestest funnest thing EVER! I have this little glassine envelope of old stamps from Yugoslavia. Most are the perfect size to fit on a 1.25" pinback button. In my opinion, it's much more fun to display them then to keep 'em in an envelope in a drawer somewhere.

First, I decided to mount them on paper so the shiny part of the button didn't show through. To be as authentic as possible, I used super vintage yellow graph paper.

One of the things that makes pinback equipment so costly is this amazing circle cutter tool. Like everything else, it is SOLID STATE and adjustable so you can make these perfect circle cuts.

So next, you need all of the button parts: the back, the smooth front part, and a clear mylar cover. It's time to make a button sandwich!

Here is this juicy stamp, just waiting to be smashed into an awesome button. Notice that there's plenty of yellow paper hanging over the edges, but most of that gets wrapped around and tucked into the middle of the button.

Ta-da! So, so thrilling!!

Add this Blog to Your Feed!!

2009-08-30T17:38:00.003-05:00

The very lovely and generous Susan, author of the blog The Shoppe of my Dreams, has been very kind to Crab Apple Designs!

First, she featured items that she purchased from my shop AND is offering a giveaway to her readers. Etsy sellers are SO lucky to have folks like Susan who work so hard to promote handmade goodies and crafters. Thank you Susan!

So go to her blog and show her some love!

No Words, Just Pictures

2009-08-25T13:09:00.005-05:00

Okay, a few words: I'm fresh out of words but these pictures are a clue as to what kinds of activities are happening around my house:

New Journals on the Way!

2009-08-03T12:49:00.004-05:00

Be on the lookout for new crazy-cool journals on their way to the CrabAppleDesign etsy shop!

Progress on my First Mosiac Tile Project

2009-08-03T12:33:00.006-05:00

A generous friend of the family gave me this round wood laminate table. It was crying out for renovation, so I've been slowly learning to do tile mosaic and finally I can see some progress.

Acting out of character for ME, I started the project without doing any research on tile, grout, etc. I just started gluing tiles and hoped that a pleasing pattern would result.

I ran out of tiles near the center, so I used flat marbles. A mistake? Maybe! I've been applying grout a patch at a time, and now that I'm at the marbles I'm finding it to be really hard to get the grout flat between the marbles. It was much easier to scrap the grout over uniformly flat tiles.

Almost done! Just need to finish grouting those funky marbles and then apply sealant. Hopefully a picture of the finished project will arrive this week!

One Stop Shopping!

2009-08-01T23:20:00.004-05:00

Whew! It took most of the evening/night, but I've moved all of my paper goods into my CrabAppleDesigns Etsy shop.

I'm not completely comfortable with the sidebar categories. I wish that my crafty pursuits were a bit more "alike" than "all over the place."

Next, I need to get new stuff (fold and mail stationery, buttons, stickers, journals) listed that has been in the works over the last few weeks.

Currently, my dining table is completely covered with vintage goodies waiting to be photographed, described, and listed in the BlueCake store, which is now officially all vintage goodies. A few things that will show up in the store tomorrow include a wooden horse head bottle opener, an old View Master viewer in the original box, collector's metal trays from all over the good ole' USA, a very old etiquette book, and a cool retro alarm clock. All of this is courtesy of 3 consecutive days of thrift shopping at Goodwill Blue Hanger in Austin. LOVIN' the GBH.

Thanks for reading, nation. I love you.

My Favorite Etsy Artists #6 of 10: Crafterall

2009-07-31T14:00:00.002-05:00

This shop practically give me goose-bumps, it is so amazing! If you love maps, paper, colors, collage, cards - then go there immediately!!!

Crafterall does these amazing topograph style cards and art pieces. They are so gorgeous and organic. And obviously done by someone with great skill with a craft knife!!

My Favorite Etsy Artists #5 of 10: Ziemabir

2009-07-31T11:00:00.002-05:00

Ziemabir is a sweet little mother-daughter shop! I have tried my hand at crocheting flowers. I'm not giving up, but it is a slow learning process for me. How wonderful to get a handful of these lovlies to put on a cardigan sweater or to accessorize - oh I don't know - your ENTIRE life with?!?

Favorite Etsy Artists #4 of 10: TidelineDesigns

2009-07-31T06:24:00.003-05:00

Oh how I love this shop. Anyone who knows me knows that my number one hobby is probably beachcombing, especially for sea glass.

TidelineDesigns has the yummiest photos of their found seaglass, which comes in the lovely jellybean shapes that the Gulf of Mexico simply cannot replicate.

I love how they display their products:

Their photos are art in themselves! They also sell pre-drilled sea glass for jewelry making. I can tell you from personal experience that drilling sea glass is quite difficult to do without ruining the piece. *Sigh!* I would like to spend a few months roaming the UK's North Yorkshire Coast. So lovely!!

Pirate Owl

2009-07-29T16:48:00.001-05:00

AARRRGGGHHHH.

An Etsy Treasury with my Sleepy Owl

2009-07-28T16:43:00.002-05:00

Thank you to Dylan's Homemade Goods for her yummy orangey-aqua-ey treasury that includes a bunch of very fun goodies!

Tutorial: How to Make a Sink Skirt

2009-07-22T08:27:00.008-05:00

If you have an old bathroom like me, you probably have a sink with exposed pipes. Yuck! Plus, you don't have the benefit of under-sink storage. So an easy option to cover up the uglies is to make a sink "skirt." Here's how to do it...

Before:

Obtain some velcro-type fastener stuff. I used Velcro brand "Home Decor" tape. One side is a peel-off adhesive and the other side is made for you to stitch.

So stick the adhesive side around the edge of your sink like this:

Measure the distance around your sink and from sink to floor. Add about 1/2" to measurements on each side for a seam allowance. If you want to add pleats or a gathered look, add extra width to account for this. Cut your fabric to these dimensions as well as your trim if you want to add it.

Note: I did not accurately measure the length from sink to floor, so my skirt came out too long. I was lazy and just took up the excess in a "fold" and restitched. You will see this in a later photo.

Press a 1/2" seam allowance around all edges of the fabric. If you want a pleat along the top edge, press the pleat and pin to secure it.

Next, pin the velcro along the top edge of the skirt.

Pin the trim along the bottom edge of the skirt. Stitch all the way around the 4 sides of the skirt, through the velcro and through the trim. I used a 1/4" seam allowance.

Stitch a second row along the velcro edge in order to secure both sides of the velcro to the fabric.

This is what the top should look like if you included an inverted pleat.

Because my skirt was too long, I "hitched" it up a couple of inches.

Then I did the responsible thing and actually checked to be sure my new length was correct.

I secured the new length with two rows of stitches. In the picture below, you can see that the edges did not line up evenly. Oh well!

Nevertheless, it is an improvement over the naked sink and now I can hide some unsightly stuff behind the skirt!

Now, would a matching toilet skirt be going overboard???

ANNOUNCEMENTS!

2009-07-19T14:55:00.004-05:00

Good Sunday afternoon, world!

I have 2 exciting announcements.

1. The new CrabAppleDesign.com is up and looking both very cute and functional.

2) A big ole' change is coming in the Crab Apple World. My little experimental shop, BlueCakeAndButtercup paper goods has done quite well on etsy, so hooray for that! Now that my paper goods line is becoming established, BC&BC will soon be joining the CrabAppleDesign shop on etsy. Hopefully one shop can support two different kinds of crafts. I believe that this decision will help make wholesale promotion easier. Fingers crossed!

The BlueCakeAndButtercup store will be then be dedicated to vintage items and vintage destash supplies. It will be fun to have my own little vintage goodies shop, so I'm very excited about the transition.

Everything should be in its (new) proper place by August 1, 2009.

A Sneak-y Peek-y

2009-07-17T10:11:00.003-05:00

I'm working on a special project for a VERY special friend. She is a teacher and has requested a custom calendar with a vintage school theme. Here's a little peek at the goodies that will be inside the calendar:

Cupcake Coloring Book on Sale!

2009-07-15T22:45:00.003-05:00

Hello world! Did you know that there is a 12 page downloadable (you can make lots of copies for parties, gifts, etc.) coloring book in the shop? It is now on SALE! Just $10.00 for blog readers. All you need to do is convo me and I'll set up your own special listing.

Check it out!!

Around the House

2009-07-14T10:39:00.002-05:00

Um, 10 blog posts in 6 days is way too ambitious for me! I plan to finish my goal of posting about 10 of my favorite etsy artists/shops by the end of July - a much more reasonable goal for the occasional blogger.

Here are some highlights of what is happening around my house-in-progress...

Moo business cards:

Cool thrifted bike basket (thanks, Mom!):
Vintage reproduction goodies from Michaels and some cool stamps. Thinking about turning the stamps into buttons or magnets...

Today, hopefully I will finish my bathroom sink skirt and make 3 new journals. This is ambitious for a lazy person, which is what I've become now that it feels like 110 in the jungle outside. Yay air conditioning!

Favorite Etsy Artists #3 of 10: Present & Correct

2009-07-09T10:46:00.002-05:00

I. Love. Present & Correct. So European. So Modular.

My Favorite Etsy Artists #4 of 10: BabyCakesBoutique

2009-07-06T21:39:00.007-05:00

This lovely shop is called Baby Cakes Boutique. I'm happy to say that I am currently awaiting the arrival of the awesome aqua bird bag. Man would I love to know how to make messenger bags!!

Favorite Etsy Artists #2 of 10: SugarLust

2009-07-06T21:36:00.007-05:00

I love these vinyl bags from SugarLust! I admire anyone who can skillfully work with vinyl...and the cutouts are so sweet.

Etsy Favorites 1 of 10: Cat Bishop

2009-07-04T11:42:00.014-05:00

I decided it was time to showcase some of my favorite Etsy artists. I plan to do 10 by July 10.

Here is number 1: Cat Bishop of Artsy

This talented Etsy Artist, Scupltor, and Photographer - Cat Bishop of Artsy - was featured on the front page this week. I am in love with every one of her pieces, but particularly these. Personally, I think that she has really fair and accessible prices for folks who want to start an art collection, and the beauty and simplicity of these figures is enchanting. She uses the same materials that I use and love to collect. Her talent gives the vintage pieces real personality. What could be turned into nightmarish creepy circus monsters instead become kindly loving beings with her creative touch. For those on a smaller budget, you can buy photos of these amazing scupltures to display. I LOVE ARTSY!!

Please visit her Etsy shop to see more wonderful sculptures!

100 Sales Giveaway

2009-06-12T23:42:00.004-05:00

Hello Friends,
In honor of today's 100th sale in the paper goods shop, I'll be giving away 5 cupcake coloring books to those of you who post to my blog and share your favorite paper goodie blog, book, or other desirable. Be sure to include your email! On June 20, I will put the names in a bag and draw 5. I will send the winners a link to visit to download your prize. Yay 100 sales!!

Cupcake Coloring Book is Ready for You!

2009-06-11T15:17:00.007-05:00

I am so so happy to announce that my first coloring book, "Cupcakes All Year Round" is now available in my shop to purchase as a download.

I've field tested it and I find it to be quite satisfying. Thick black lines to reduce to boo-boo factor, lots of extra space for doodling...and if you print it on cardstock, it is very forgiving and sharpie-friendly.

I hope to get this guy professionally printed sometime soon. In the meantime, instant gratification + free shipping is a nice alternative.

Please visit it and let me know what you think!

Air Mail Goodies

2009-06-10T07:06:00.006-05:00

We love airmail stuff. Just cuz. It's red. It's blue. It's modular. The very generous Babalisme from Indonesia featured a few of my airmail things among others in her blog today.

The most exciting part is her feature of airmail stationery from this super cool UK stationery store, P&C.

Photo originally from Oh Joy, another lovely blog. Now I feel like writing a letter!

My Review of COMPASS RING

2009-06-08T21:54:00.002-05:00

UncommonGoods

Artist LeeAnn Herreid's whimsical ring features a sterling silver band holding a decorative compass.

LOVE THIS RING!

crab apple designs corpus christi, tx 6/8/2009

Pros: Good Quality, Polished, Comfortable, Unique, Sparkles

Best Uses: Everyday

Describe Yourself: Classic, Practical, Comfort-Oriented, Modern, Stylish

I love this ring. The construction is solid with the perfect weight. It feels substantial without being too bulky or uncomfortable. I work at an active job where I am indoors and out and working with kids and with my hands. This ring has been very comfortable.

Woven Ribbon Pillow

2009-06-02T17:55:00.003-05:00

Now that I'm *mostly* moved into my little place, I've been nesting. Curtains, painting thrifted furniture, and some other goodies.

Here is my latest sewing project: woven ribbon pillow. It's 18x18 and has a zipper so it's removable for spot cleaning. Looks lovely with my WHITE furniture. Now that I don't have cats, I can have WHITE furniture. Whoa.

It is available in my crabapple etsy shop as a custom item but is a fun project to make on your own.

Towels, Shows, & Other Good Stuff

2009-04-02T22:39:00.003-05:00

So much news since my last entry. New city (Corpus), new apartment (totally heart it), new everything practically. Including this new item of obsession: towels. And make-your-own-bias tape. Here is a bias tape making tool in action.

These are "prototypes," which is what I call anything that I screw up when I'm first learning to make it. So they are in fact all screwed up but the colors are still fun. And there is a fresh stack of hand towels ready to be decorated in a non-screwed up fashion.

These goodies and lots more will be featured at my next show: The Lone Star Ladies Present: Shop Austin on April 18 in downtown Austin. Go here to reserve half price tickets to pick up when you arrive at the show.

The very generous Catherine of The Everyday Scrapper featured Crab Apple Designs on her blog this week and used items from the shop for several of her paper crafting projects. It is a huge honor for me to be featured and I want everyone to go there and show her website all kinds of love!!

Etsy Treasuries

2009-02-16T14:15:00.005-06:00

I am so honored to say that recently I've been featured in TWO different etsy treasuries, both unique and quite lovely.

The first is a blue theme (expired) by Susantique and the second is a clock/time theme by ZAIcouple. Here are screen shots, or click to go shopping!

Print Your Own Valentines

2009-02-10T22:37:00.005-06:00

I'm pleased to announce that my print your own owl valentines are selling nicely in my etsy shop. Hooray! One mom told me today that her child plans to use them to make valentines for their class party. What a cool idea! For only $4.00, you can make as many valentines as you like. Neat!

New Stickers in the Shop

2009-01-16T15:33:00.004-06:00

I've been busy making stickers and having a *DANG* good time doing it.

Here are a few examples of what is already in the shop:

My First Feature in an Etsy Treasury, Yahoo!

2009-01-15T18:08:00.003-06:00

Rebekah of SunnyBrookFarmDesign (cute, huh?) created the latest Treasury for the Etsy Texas Crafters and I'm in it. This is EXCITING!

The 2009 Calendar is Complete (mostly)

2009-01-02T00:22:00.003-06:00

I have long wanted to design a calendar, and this one has been a labor of love. Here is an image of the 12 months. The first design had the dates all wrong (from 2008) and had to be completely re-done. UGH! So now I've triple-checked and am satisfied in its accuracy.

The calendar will be available in the shop early next week in 2 formats:

1) Downloadable CD jewel-case size (the jewel case doubles as a stand for the pages). For this one you'll have to acquire an empty CD jewel-case, print out on 12 pages of card stock, and cut out yourself. I may make a few of these "hard copies" for the shop as well.

2) A larger, spiral bound wall version, a bit larger than the CD jewel case version, printed on heavy matte cardstock.

If you have any suggestions, speak now before I go off to the printer on Monday!!!
xo melissa

Printable New Year Card and Envelope in the Shop

2009-01-01T15:17:00.007-06:00

Here it is: the first of many-to-come download & print stationery bits. The first one is a Happy New Year Card and it is a "color your own." I'm often asked for blackline versions of other printables. I colored a few myself and tried a blingy version with glitter and stickles. Only $2.00 for the download, come and get it!

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-01T10:17:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year! I'm still thinking out my resolutions, but I've been planning business goals for 2009 for months. Essentially: more, more, more! New items coming into the shop include more vintage game and flash card journals, vintage image reproduction stationery, and little buttons and purse mirrors with original artwork.

I also want to start including aprons in my fabric goodies shop and learn how to incorporate quilling into my stationery line.

Please share your crafty resolutions!!

For those of you who like to journal, here is a little goodie you can print out and glue into your journal for your resolution doodling.

We can always rely on Martha for ways to get organized. Here is a link to her list of downloadable planning forms and other goodies.

Heart Me Challenge: 100 Hearts by Jan 1!

2008-12-27T10:12:00.008-06:00

Edit: We may not make it to 100 hearts by midnight, but this promotion has been a blast! I've fiddled with the dimensions of your free gift for participating and I feel that they are ready to go. I'll be mailing them out to you tomorrow! Love, x, o, melissa

Friends, my new Etsy shop BlueCakeAndButtercup is a subdivision of my little company Crab Apple Designs.

BlueCakeAndButtercup is dedicated to paper goodies, and I'm thrilled to see that 40 Etsians have "hearted" my shop since I opened it up last month!

So here's the challenge: If we can get it up to 100 hearts by midnight, Jan. 1, I will have a gift for you!!!

Just go to my shop (look around of course, hee hee), and click on "add seller to favorites." Come back here and post a comment with your email address. Just for posting,I will send you a free digital/printable Valentine Owl card and envelope. If we make the goal of 100 hearts, I will send you a code for a 20% off coupon for my shop.

So let's get hearting.

A Free Gift for You!

2008-12-26T18:54:00.006-06:00

I am developing a series of download-able stationery sets. Hooray! Currently, the theme is owls but I have a ton of ideas for other themes.

The download set will include 4 different designs of cards and stationery sheets, a sheet of stickers, and an envelope design. Once these designs are downloaded, you can print them out to use or to give as a gift set.

The actual downloads will be in the form of high-quality pdf files. Below they are jpeg files since Blogger won't let me upload pdfs for some reason. Still working on that kink.

Right now, here is what is available for download in the shop: stationery, doodles, and color-your-own goodies, which are blackline drawings that require no color ink and are begging to be painted or colored with crayons, glitter, pastels - endless possibilities!

Here are a few of the "Rainbow" printables for you, my precious reader. If you do download and print them, I would love to know if you find that the colors are true, margins are appropriate, etc. I'll be testing them myself once I'm reunited with my printer.

Here they are:

Hello, World.

2008-12-25T17:36:00.004-06:00

It's been weeks since my last post and so many exciting things have happened:

1) BlueCakeAndButtercup.etsy.com is doing very well, thank you etsy shoppers everywhere!

2) My first show was a success and I am very thankful to Sweetwolf and the folks at UBC Austin for the opportunity. I'm looking forward to lots more in 2009.

3) Working at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar in Austin, Texas is fun for so many reasons. Although I don't work there as a vendor (but rather as production staff) it is a wonderful place to network and just meet great people. This year, the owner of Crystal Works in Austin noticed me making cards during a slow period at the "back desk" and bought them right on the spot. She reports that her customers are enjoying and buying my cards, which is totally thrilling.

Owls are getting lots of attention in the way of custom orders and retail interests. So that's what I'm doing in all my spare time: paper owls, stuffed owls, big owls, small owls, sleepy owls.....

xo melissa

Lovin on the Kit Cat Clock

2008-12-09T08:12:00.003-06:00

I've always loved the Kit Cat Clock. What's not to love? But how do you choose one? Of course, you could be like this cool lady and have them all. Check out KitCatKing for restored vintage Kit Cat Clocks. That is where the image below came from. Also, the Official Kit Cat Website is freakin great.