Cookie Monster Birthday Wreath and Cake

Planning a birthday party can be stressful and fun at the same time. I find it is always easier to start a few months ahead. The reason is because looking for certain things you have in mind might be hard to find.  

The easiest part is knowing a theme when your child has a favorite character, show, or toy they love. In this instance, Cookie Monster was key. My daughter-in-law asked if I could make a Cookie Monster wreath.  Well I'm not afraid to challenge myself, so I accepted the proposal.

I set on my mission to obtain materials I could use.  They consisted of: 

• 1 round white foam wreath form
• 2 blue boas
• 2 tan sheets of felt
• 1 brown sheet of felt
• 1 black sheet of felt
• 2 styrofoam half balls
• black marker

I wrapped the boas around the form, I used the black felt in the back to make him look whole. I then cut circles out of the tan felt to shape my cookies and the brown to make my chocolate chips.  I attached the half balls as his eyes and used my marker to color the circles for his eyes.

There you have it.  Cookie Monster was complete.

Now for the cake. I baked 2 different sizes and layered them. I used homemade buttercream icing and store bought fondant.  After the cake was iced and fondant was rolled, cut, and placed, the sprinkles were added.

After arriving at the party, Mom added the characters for the final touch.  I love that I was able to make his little party one to remember.

Handmade Peeps

 As a crafter, you are always searching for ideas. Whether it be from friends, internet, or just something that pops in your head. I happened to stumble on a video for these. Like seriously, it was not only the cutest thing ever but so simple.  I must give credit where it's due, I found this on The Shabby Tree Facebook page.

I LOVE simple. Not only that, it required NO SEWING!!  I can't sew to save my life. That's another story.  Seriously all you need is the following materials: 

• Felt
• Stuffing
• Glitter
• Hot glue (fabric or regular)
• Scissors
• Template
• Regular glue
• Small paint brush
• Black Sharpie Marker

For a template I simply went to google images and downloaded a plain outline of a peep.

Just remember before printing to adjust the picture to the size of peep you would like to make. Then after printing you cut him out, and place him on your felt.  Trace and cut 2 pieces of felt. Glue him together leaving the bottom open to stuff.  After stuffing, simply close him up.  That's where the glitter comes in. Paint the glue all over and sprinkle your glitter.  After he dries, using you marker, add you eyes and nose.  That's it!  

Just remember, if you are using a glue gun, PLEASE be careful.  They do get very hot and burning your fingers is very likely.  They do make finger protectors.  I would suggest investing in some. 

Thank you for crafting with me today!!  

Welcome to the world of Diamond Painting

I recently had knee surgery and was looking for something to do besides watch tv in my recliner. I took my boredom to Facebook and asked for suggestions.  One response I got was Diamond Painting.

What the heck was Diamond Painting? Well I had never heard of this before. I then went on to Google, YouTube, etc. to search this craft of sorts.  I quickly learned it was like "color by number" BUT with little tiny beads. 

I sent my husband on a mission. You must find me one of these.  He went to Michael's.  Of course, there were a few to choose from and prices ranged quite a bit. Being a cat lover, he chose the cat. Which I must say was a fine choice.

Upon opening the box, you will find a canvas with the picture printed on it along with a chart. The chart is so you can follow the markings on the canvas to place the appropriate color beads. You will also find a pen, wax, tray,  and an assortment of packaged beads labeled with numbers. 

Now the fun part.  Laying out the canvas, you decide where to begin. I would recommend starting from the right and going to the left. The reason is because the canvas has a stickiness to it so the beads can adhere. This will keep your hand from sticking as well while you are working.