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Monday, March 31, 2014

DIY Glittered Clothespins

Monday, March 31, 2014

DIY Glittered Clothespins

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DIY Glittered Clothespins for $1 at artsyfartsymama.com #glitter #clothespins

I absolutely love everything glitter, and almost everything in my house is covered in it (some of it unintentionally). These glittered clothespins glam up anything you use them for. They look cute on gift bags, turned into magnets, or even to display photos. Glittered clothespins are also extremely inexpensive to make, which makes them even more fun!!

DIY Glittered Clothespins for $1 at artsyfartsymama.com #glitter #clothespins

To make glittered clothespins, you'll need Mod Podge, glitter, and of course, clothespins. I found a package of 36 clothespins at the dollar store (if you don't want to do the math, that's only less than 3¢ per clothespin!). The clothespins are clipped onto a piece of cardboard, so I just pulled them out of the package. Some of the clothespins look a little rough, but not to worry. They'll be covered up, anyway!!

DIY Glittered Clothespins for $1 at artsyfartsymama.com #glitter #clothespins

Any kind of Mod Podge will do the job great. I went with Extreme Glitter Mod Podge for some extra sparkle. Paint a medium-thick coat of Mod Podge on the front of each clothespin with a painting brush or sponge brush. Mod Podge can dry quickly sometimes, so work quickly!

The clothespins came clipped on some thin cardboard, so I just left them on there so I could easily move the clothespins around all at once.

DIY Glittered Clothespins for $1 at artsyfartsymama.com #glitter #clothespins

Any kind of glitter will look cute, but I went with a fine gold glitter this time. Lay your clothespins on a piece of paper. Pour your glitter over the clothespins. Let them sit to dry for a few minutes, then carefully stand them up (hold the back of the clothespins so you don't mess up the front) and carefully tap off any excess glitter.

Let the clothespins dry for an hour or more, then spray the clothespins with a few coats of clear spray paint to help prevent the glitter from falling off or getting on your fingers when you pinch the clothespins to use them.

DIY Glittered Clothespins look cute on gift bags! Tutorial from artsyfartsymama.com #glitter #clothespins

Recently I was able to host a Cricut Explore Workshop at my house (more on that coming soon!) with a bunch of amazing friends. I wanted to give them a gift bag with projects and swag, and I think the glittered clothespin really added a lot! (I made up a "create" tag with the Cricut Explore)

What would you use glittered clothespins for?

Sunday, March 30, 2014

24 Peeps Projects & Recipes

Sunday, March 30, 2014

24 Peeps Projects & Recipes

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24 Peeps Projects & Recipes at artsyfartsymama.com #Easter #Peeps #EasterCrafts #EasterRecipes

Peeps are one of the hottest Easter candies out there. Even though I don't love to eat them, I do think they are adorable!! Cute little bunnies and chicks covered in the food equivalent to glitter?! Yes, please! Today I'm sharing 24 fun Peeps-inspired projects and recipes that all contain Peeps to give you some fun Easter ideas.

24 Peeps Projects & Recipes at artsyfartsymama.com #Easter #Peeps #EasterCrafts #EasterRecipes

1. Marshmallow Bunny Plushies from Dandelions & Lace 
2. Chocolate Dipped Peeps from Your Homebased Mom
3. Peeps Bunny Bunting from V & CO.
4. Skateboarding Peeps from Sweet Simple Stuff
5. Peeps Rice Krispies Treats from Love From the Oven
7. Peeps Cookies from The Sweet Adventures of Sugarbelle
9. Peep Easter Wreath from Tried & True
10. Peep S'mores from Cupcake Diaries
12. Peeps Whoopie Pies Recipe from The Country Chic Cottage
13. Peeps Bubble Gum Ice Cream from Pint Sized Baker
14. Chillin' With My Peeps Shirt from Sugar Bee Crafts
15. Peeps Candy Bars from The Domestic Rebel
17. Pretty in Peeps Pendant from The Impatient Crafter
18. Peeps Cake Batter Candy from Cookies & Cups
19. Marshmallow Chick Plushies from Dandelions & Lace
20. Easter Peeps Treat Bag Printable from Club Chica Circle
21. Layered S'mores Brownies with Peeps from Shugary Sweets
22. Peep Topiary from the Hungry Mouse
23. Peeps Popcorn from Yellow Bliss Road
24. Large Peep Topiaries from Craft-O-Maniac

Are you a Peeps fan?

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Easy Soft Sugar Cookies

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Easy Soft Sugar Cookies

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Easy Soft Sugar Cookies from artsyfartsymama.com #cookies #easyrecipes #sugarcookies

When it comes to cookie recipes, easier is always better. Especially when it comes to sugar cookies. I've never had much luck with the complicated recipes. Plus, just reading through some of them is just exhausting. So I give those of you who are willing to do the tough recipe props, because I'm just too lazy.

This recipe is pretty much just mix and bake. No chilling in the refrigerator involved, and you don't even have to use cookie cutters if you don't want to! Easy, peasy and they are delicious!!

Easy Soft Sugar Cookies from artsyfartsymama.com #cookies #easyrecipes #sugarcookies

Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 3/4 cup flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 400º
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light & fluffy.
  3. Beat in egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
  4. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together and add to butter mixture one cup at a time.
  5. Divide dough into two balls (do not chill).
  6. On a floured surface, roll or press each ball with your fingers into a 12" circle about 1/8" thick.
  7. Cut out shapes with floured cookie cutters. Or if you don't want to use cookie cutters, roll the dough into a 1-1 1/2" ball and flatten it to 1/8" thick.
  8. Bake cookies on ungreased cookie sheet for 6-7 minutes.
  9. When cookies are cooled, frost and sprinkle.
    (For the Peep chick and bunny cookies, we added mini chocolate chips for eyes)
Makes about 3 dozen sugar cookies.

Monday, March 24, 2014

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks

Monday, March 24, 2014

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks

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This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Cooking Light and Real Simple, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #FreshandFab http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Since I broke my leg, I have been stationed on the couch so I could put my leg up while I work. That also means my desk supplies and computer were moved to a temporary table to use. Well, the good news is that I'm feeling a lot better, so I recently moved my desk space back to it's original spot so I could get more blogging and designing done during the day. The bad news is that things are now a HUGE mess. No organization whatsoever, and it's not simple at all to find anything when I need it.

Purchase Cooking Light and Real Simple magazines at Target and get a $5 gift card!! #FreshandFab #PMedia

Since I'm more mobile and can actually help around the house again, I've also been realizing how much we are needing to do some good spring cleaning. I went to Target and found the April editions of Cooking Light and Real Simple magazines and was excited to find some great spring cleaning tips and tricks! Plus, when you purchase these two magazines together at Target, you also get a $5 gift card! I don't know about you, but I can always use a little financial help when I shop at Target...

Since my desk area at home was such a mess, I found myself in the desk organization area and decided to put my gift card to good use and purchase a metal desktop storage unit. I also purchased some smaller plastic storage trays.

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks: simple spring cleaning and organizing ideas for your workspace #springcleaning #organization #FreshandFab

This "before" shot might not seem too terrible, but it was driving me crazy. The desk was covered in dust, and there wasn't a designated spot for anything. When things aren't organized, I have a hard time concentrating on what needs to get done. The desk drawers were just as bad. Full of junk, with no spot for anything. It's frustrating having to dig through everything just to find a pen or some scissors.

So, first, I cleared everything off the desk and used some cleaning tips from the Real Simple magazine. This issue has an awesome section with tips to make your cleaning routine faster and easier, and also has a literal A-Z guide of clever ways to clean and freshen up almost anything!

For example, did you know that using Pledge dusting spray can also refresh leather?! I used this trick on my leather desk chair and it worked great! Simply spray the Pledge on a cotton cloth and wipe it down. It can even work on leather shoes!

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks at artsyfartsymama.com #springcleaning #organization #FreshandFab

For the desk drawers, I used tips from the Real Simple magazine for cleaning out a utensil drawer. I chose some plastic storage trays in all different sizes to organize my office supplies, mainly because most plastics can be run through a dishwasher or at least hand washed. So when it's time to clean again, all I'll need to do is pull out the trays, and wash them out. The drawer should stay fairly clean.

Once I pulled everything out of the drawers, I took the time to get rid of anything that didn't need to be in there (i.e., random candies, papers, etc) to de-junk. It feels great to get rid of things you don't need anymore! Then, I used a damp cloth to wipe out the dust, and other small items out of the drawer. Another trick is to cover a ruler with a damp paper towel to get the corners of the drawers really clean!

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks at artsyfartsymama.com #springcleaning #organization #FreshandFab

Once my desk was thoroughly dusted and everything else wiped clean with a damp paper towel, I set up my desk space again with the desk storage unit. I love the storage spaces on both sides of the stand that will hold pens and any important papers or supplies. I can also easily fit my computer devices underneath the storage drawer that will hold my weekly planner when I'm not using it, which will free up a lot of desk space!!

I also had some extra space on top by my monitor to put a couple new projects (coming soon!) on display without getting in the way. Having everything in a place also made the cords less visible, which is a big plus for me!

Desk Organization Tips and Tricks at artsyfartsymama.com #springcleaning #organization #FreshandFab

I'm so much happier with my workspace, and am feeling so much more motivated to get to work. Just the thought of spring cleaning is overwhelming to me, but being able to tackle one job at a time makes it a whole lot less daunting. Plus, the "after" look of your home makes it all worth it!!

For more healthy recipes and tips for making life easier, follow:
Real Simple on FacebookTwitter, and Pinterest
Cooking Light on FacebookTwitter, and Pinterest

Sunday, March 23, 2014

20 Kids Crafts for Spring

Sunday, March 23, 2014

20 Kids Crafts for Spring

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20 Kids Crafts for Spring at artsyfartsymama.com #spring #kidscrafts #homeschool

Spring is finally here, and we're so excited to get working on some projects filled with flowers, butterflies, and everything Spring-related! Today I'm sharing 20 fun kids crafts that are all about Spring! These crafts are all simple and would be fun to create on rainy days or add a little learning fun for homeschooling!

Saturday, March 22, 2014

DIY Spring Banner

Saturday, March 22, 2014

DIY Spring Banner

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DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

Spring is officially here, so that means it's time to get those springtime decorations up at my house! I don't have a whole lot of decorations, so I decided to make myself a banner since I have never made one before (I know, right?). But, with the help of my Cricut Explore and some stripflocked heat transfer vinyl from Expressions Vinyl, this banner was a snap!

DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

Generally, I stay away from burlap in general because #1 I hate how it feels. Really hate it. #2, it gets everywhere!!! It's like the feeling after a haircut with tiny hairs poking you, but all.over.the.place!! ughh... But then, I found this adorable polka dotted burlap at Joann's that I just couldn't resist.

Did you know that the Cricut Explore can cut fabric? More specifically, burlap?! I ironed on some fusible interfacing to the backside of the burlap for both stability and placing the burlap interfacing-side down will help keep your mat from being covered in burlap whiskers. I cut out a 12x12 piece and placed it on a standard sticky mat and cut out the banner shapes with the Explore.

*If you don't have an Explore, don't worry - you can cut out a banner shape out of cardstock and trace the pattern on the burlap to hand cut.

DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

After cutting out the stripflock heat transfer vinyl, I weeded out the excess vinyl and separated the letters so I could iron them on the banner pieces individually. The difference between regular heat transfer vinyl and stripflock heat transfer vinyl is that the stripflock has a fuzzy texture instead of the glossy, vinyl texture.

The iron-on sheets are made up of two parts: the heat transfer vinyl, which will be ironed on to your project, and the liner. The liner is a carrier sheet (think transfer paper) that holds the design in place and protects your iron during application.

*Like any iron-on product, make sure you mirror your image! Otherwise it will be backwards when you iron it on!

To cut the vinyl, place the sheet liner side down on the cutting mat. Cut the sheet with a "kiss cut" (where you only cut through the iron-on, but leaves the liner intact). Every cutting machine is different, so make sure to check your cut guides and settings.

DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

When your letters are in the right spot, follow the instructions for ironing the vinyl on:
  1. Set your iron to the Cotton/Linen setting with the steam OFF.
  2. Lightly preheat the area with the iron for 10-15 seconds. This really does help!
  3. Place your letter, liner side UP onto the area. If you don't place the liner side up, it will stick to your press cloth.
  4. Carefully lay a press cloth, piece of scrap fabric, or dishtowel over the design. Be VERY careful. You don't want any of the pieces to shift!
  5. Apply medium pressure with the iron for 25-30 seconds.
  6. Flip the material over and apply medium pressure with the iron to the back of the material for an additional 25-30 seconds.
  7. If you have any parts that didn't stick for some reason or if edges are flipping up, re-iron the pieces or loose edges with the iron tip for 10 seconds.
  8. Let cool and remove liner. If you try to remove the liner before it cools, you risk burning your fingers or peeling the vinyl up.
DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

Next, I punched out two holes at the top of the banner pieces with a paper punch. Weave some twine through the holes, and your banner is now ready for display!

DIY Spring Banner from artsyfartsymama.com #Spring #banner #ExploreCricut

Who else is ready for Spring to finally be here?!

I received product from Expressions Vinyl and Cricut in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

DIY Embroidered Canvas

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

DIY Embroidered Canvas

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This project post is a part of a paid marketing campaign with Snap. Although this post is sponsored, the project idea & all opinions expressed are my own.

DIY Embroidered Canvas at artsyfartsymama.com #AmyTangerine #embroidery #create

Embroidery is a hobby that I love doing, but just haven't made the time to do much of it lately.  After looking through the Amy Tangerine Plus One collection and saw the adorable embroidery kit, I knew it was time to get stitching again. I can always use more wall art in my creative space, so I decided to embroider a canvas!
Monday, March 17, 2014

Slow Cooker Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Monday, March 17, 2014

Slow Cooker Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

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I'm always looking for different ways to serve chicken for dinner, and this recipe is the perfect mix of my Chicken & Rice and Cream Cheese Chicken recipes. It's got the creaminess from the cream cheese, and the zesty flavor from Italian seasoning that really makes this meal one of our favorites. Even better, you can easily make this in the slow cooker with minimal effort!!

Slow Cooker Italian Cream Cheese Chicken from artsyfartsymama.com #easyrecipe #chicken #slowcooker #crockpot #dinnerideas

Ingredients:
7-8 chicken tenderloins or 4 chicken breasts (frozen or thawed)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 packet Italian Dressing Mix
1 cup milk
8 oz cream cheese
1 tsp seasoning salt

Directions:
  1. Place chicken in slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, Italian dressing mix, milk, seasoning salt, and cream cheese. Pour mixture over the chicken.
  3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then cut chicken into small pieces or shred the chicken.
  4. Serve over egg noodles or rice.
**This can also be cooked on the stove top. Cut chicken into pieces, then cook thoroughly. Mix together cream of chicken soup, Italian dressing mix, milk, seasoning salt, and cream cheese. Pour mixture over the chicken and stir over medium heat until heated through. Serve over egg noodles or rice.

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

DIY Glitter Unicorn Shirt

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

DIY Glitter Unicorn Shirt

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My little diva has become quite the unicorn fan. When I asked her what kind of shirt we should make, she didn't even hesitate to answer with "a pink, sparkly unicorn, of course!". How could I say no to that?

DIY Glitter Unicorn Shirt at artsyfartsymama.com #vinyl #unicorn #kidfashion #ExploreCricut

To make a custom unicorn shirt, I first needed some heat transfer vinyl. I'm really impressed with the color selection and quality of heat transfer vinyl that Expressions Vinyl carries. I ordered the glittered heat transfer vinyl in Blush, then uploaded my unicorn image to my Cricut Explore. The heat transfer vinyl can be cut on any vinyl cutting machine, or you could even cut by hand.

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Truffles

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Truffles

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I don't know about you, but I think cookie dough in any form is pretty much the best thing ever. Sometimes I find myself wanting to make cookies just so we can enjoy half the dough before it makes it to the oven. This cookie dough recipe is entirely "safe-to-eat", meaning there aren't any raw eggs in them at all (like the raw eggs stop us from eating it anyway...).

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Truffles from artsyfartsymama.com #recipe #cookiedough

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

DIY Key Hanger

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

DIY Key Hanger

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DIY Stenciled Key Hanger at artsyfartsymama.com #ModPodgeRocks

I'm always looking for ways to organize my home, and if I can do it for cheap and make it unique - even better!!

Monday, March 3, 2014

DIY Chore Chart

Monday, March 3, 2014

DIY Chore Chart

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My daughter is old enough now to help with chores, and we're lucky that she's been excited to help (so far). Chores are tough on everyone involved, and different things work for each family. In the past, we would have her do chores as needed or when she was in the mood, but it's been a little crazy at our house lately since I broke my leg and haven't been able to get up and help much. So, to get a little more structure and an organized chore system in place, I designed a chore chart that I think will work great for her.

DIY Chore Chart + Free Printable at artsyfartsymama.com #chorechart #freeprintable #printable