Sassy Style

The weight loss game..I must have mis-read the directions.

2012-01-26T18:32:00.001-07:00

Ok-I am going to vent, yell, maybe cry a little and then ask for some advice.

Sound good?

So, I have been off of Diet Coke for 26 days!

26 days people!

That is forever!

I drink water..a lot of water..a ton of water!

I have gone to Costco and bought tons of produce and I have eaten it all before it went bad.

Even the mixed greens.

I should win an award or something.

I was even working out. Shaking my groove thing to Black Eyed Peas and trying like heck to beat my 9yr. old's high score.

I had lost 4 lbs. in 2 weeks.

I was so very proud of myself!

Wa-hoo!

Then....I got sick.

Not like the throw up lose 5lbs. sick.

The snot nose, smokers cough, ear infection sick.

I was sick for 8 days.

I drank tons of water, but didn't eat a lot. When I did eat, it wasn't all cookies and white bread or anything.

Well, I got on the scale today and I am up not only the 4lbs. that I lost-but also add an additional 4lbs.

That is for a grand total of 8 pounds!

That's a pound a day people.

Pardon my french..but what the hell?!

I know that my body was busy fighting off the infection, but come on!

I am so frustrated and mad and angry and sad and ticked...

Basically, annoyed.

I have been really good this whole week with tracking my points and eating the way I am supposed to.

The only thing that I haven't done is exercise.

I have felt too crappy to exercise.

So, in a nut shell, I feel like an ugly, blob of a person.

And, to put the icing on the cake-I am in a crafting rut-so none of my Valentine's decor is up.

I know, I know-I am totally hanging my head in shame.

I am hoping that you will make me feel better about myself and tell me that I shouldn't be frustrated and tell me that as soon as I am back to feeling 100-I will lose all the weight and then some.

If you don't want to tell me that, at least tell me that I looked smoking hot today..

Love you all!

What to do with fabric covered boxes..

2012-01-24T16:40:00.007-07:00

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Ok-so my last post was a little um..random. I wrote it quickly and it was late and I was feeling el-crapo and blah, blah, blah blah.

I thought that I would explain the post for you today. You know, cause I'm nice like that.

It all started with this pin from pinterest.

*Sidenote*

If you don't follow me on my pinterest, you really should.

I pin way too much, so I find some pretty awesome stuff.

I thought that it was a great, cheap idea! I love great, cheap ideas, so I gave it a go.

The boxes turned out perfectly for the space. (my 7yr. old's room)

If I were to do this in another part of my house, I would have used a more grown up fabric line.

I probably wouldn't embellish the boxes either.

That would be really hard for me to do though. I love glitter and buttons and ribbon and my glue gun.

Way more than one should, I'm sure.

So, the boxes inspired this room makeover.

I made the fabric covered boxes for my 7yr. old’s room. She got a mini room makeover for Christmas and her walls were still a little too bare for my liking. I can see her room from mine, so I do like it to look good.

A little truth telling here-my other two girls, they are PIGS! Granted, they are girls and they are 10 and 12 and I know that my room was very similar to theirs when I was their age. So, I choose to do as my mother did. Close the door. Out of sight, out of mind. They reside in the basement, so I really don’t see it and so I really don’t care. I do care about their younger sisters room though. I see it, therefore it must not only be clean, but decorated. Why decorated? Because it’s me and I decorate E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G!

So, to keep up with my past track record, I decorated some boxes with fabric for her room. What can I say, I am a little bit strange.

Ever since I saw this room on 320 sycamore, I wanted to make my own version.

Love, Love, Love the framed shoes! I made my own using some red shoes that I picked up at…the thrift store. You are shocked..right? I then used mod podge and red glitter to make the ruby slippers frame worthy.

Did I mention that I love them and I wish that they were a size 9 so I could wear them everyday?

I had my little sister make 15 pillows out of a bunch of fun, patterned fabric. Why so many different colors and patterns? Well, we all know that I am a bit on the lazy side when it comes to decorating. Grace had a few pieces of furniture that were random colors. I didn’t want to paint anymore than I absolutely had to, so I had to make the lime green desk and bright blue bookcase “go together.”

I also had to make the room come together on a budget. I did decorate it in December and funds were low, so I went through my stash of curtains. Yes, I have a stash of curtains. Panels, valances etc. This collection would be one of the reasons why my linen closet would barely closes. I was thrilled that I had a set of panels and plaid valances that would work. Wa-hoo! I again begged my sister to share her sewing talents with me and sew the two together. Worked out perfectly! This was one of the few times my husband was impressed with my curtain collection.

I found this cutest sign for Miss Grace at Ross for $5! Perfect!

I made this wreath with some yummy felt, a wreath form from the thrift store and straight pins. I used this fabulous tutorial from the blog, A bit of Sunshine. Her cute silhouette is from Kindergarten and she just made the rainbow the other day. She was thrilled to have a spot to hang her creations.

Overall, the room turned out better than I could have hoped.

Who knew that fabric on Christmas card boxes would look so good?

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Box Lids turn Fabulous Wall Decor!

2012-01-17T05:57:00.001-07:00

Ok-I know that this might sound kind of crazy, strange and just plain weird.

Who makes wall decor out of old box lids?

Well, that would be the same girl who see's ugly tables as ottomans.

I promise, it looks great.

My 7 yr. old needed some decor on her wall. This decor also had to be free. Why? My husband put the kybosh on my spending, so I had to use what I had.

So, I happened to find a bunch of card boxes and random dog boxes in Target's christmas section for 90% off. I also bought these boxes before my husband told me I couldn't spend anymore money. Shhh...

I then raided my fabric stash. Does anyone else find it strange that I have a

huge fabric stash and I don't sew...at all?!

Just checking..

After I picked my fabric and painstakingly ironed every piece. (I HATE to iron-even if it's cute fabric)

I puled out my scissors and double stick tape and got to wrapping.

Yes-this is really as simple as wrapping each box with fabric just like you did all of your Christmas present's. Instead of regular old tape, use double stick tape.

Once you get everything wrapped, you are ready to hang or embellish. Now, If I was not putting these super cute, box lid decor in my 7 yr. old's room, I would not embellish them. Instead I would use a fabulously, yummy line like Joel Dewberry. ( I heart him & his fabric!)

But, because it is for a girly, girls room, I did allow myself to embellish.

Ribbon, more fabric, buttons. Whatever goes!

I also had some of this super fantastic fabric paper in my stash. LOVE this! I used this sticky yumminess to cover my round boxes. So much easier.

Not sure how to cover your round box lids?

Cut slits around the edge of the paper/fabric and then fold over.

This was such a fun and simple project. Definitely allowed me to release some stress and really create. I love it when that happens. Probably not as much as my husband and family do but either way, it's a win- win!

Do this! You will love the instant gratification that this project gives!

Happy Creating!

A day late and a dollar short…when it comes to my weight loss posts

2012-01-16T20:38:00.001-07:00

So sorry!

Forgive me?

You guys have been so fabulously supportive on my weight loss journey, I am so happy to have all of you!

So first of all, Thanks!

As my husband says, Love ya like a fat kid loves cake!

Cake..I so love cake. All kinds of cake. No, not really the cake, more like the frosting! My oldest got a gift card for Christmas for the store “Icing.” My brother in law asked if that was a frosting store?!

How cool would that be? A frosting store?! Come on, doesn’t that sound even the least bit yummy?

I am having a sugar moment.

Let it be known, I am in love with sugar!! LOVE it!! Sugar of all kinds. But I do have a soft spot for all things from Lee’s bakery and frosting.

Total sugar tangent. Sorry.

Good News-I have been off of Diet Coke for 15 days! Wa-hoO!

I am doing my best to drink good old, plain water. I am also trying to tell myself that it’s delish and yummy and I love it. I am also trying to tell myself that exercising is fun and fabulous and I can’t live without it. I totally can live without it, but my body doesn’t seem to want to get rid of the fat without the help of exercise.

LAME! Oh well, at least I figured it out early in the game..right?

This is a totally strange post. Sorry about that. I blame it on the nyquil.

As for the Weight Loss update

down 4lbs in 2 weeks

Seriously soooo excited!

I am telling myself that this week’s weigh in will be much smaller than the last two. The slower it comes off, the longer it stays off, right?

Things that are working for me..

2 point veggie soup from my favorite website. We make a batch up at the first of the week and eat it all week. It freezes fabulously and it’s delish with a little bit of feta. YUMMY! Highly recommend. Plus, it’s 2 points for 2 cups. That is a ton of soup!! Try it-you will love it!!

Also-make these Gyro’s! You will dream about them, that is how good they are! SOOOOOO delish!

What is not working for me-

My local bakery.

My local bakery, Lee’s, makes the best treats ever! They are my weakness. They rotate their treats and one of my favorites is Strawberry cheese strudel bites. Holy delish! Well, they almost never have these. That was until this past weekend. I should have never went in there-never! I bought a box and ate the whole flipping thing! THE WHOLE THING! Needless to say, I had to exercise..a lot.

I should really quit sugar, but then I would be the horrible, no good, very bad mom and wife. So, instead I am going to keep drinking water and eat sugar…occasionally.

Wish me luck!

Hope that all of you are turning into hot, rockin babes!

Any tips that you want to share with me on how to kick the sugar habit, I would be forever grateful!!

Old table turns into Fabulous Ottoman

2012-01-16T18:49:00.009-07:00

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Who doesn't look at a table and think ottoman?

What? You don’t normally do that? I wish that I could say that I never did, but my brain is not normal. Therefore, it does not think “normal” things.

That is why when I saw this little table for a whopping $5

I knew immediately that it would turn into this!

If I wouldn't have changed my mind 3 times-this project would have been super quick.

But because I did, it took a bit longer.

The whole project is still super simple though.

Promise!

First

You need to gather your supplies.

Foam-Holy crap! Who knew that foam was so expensive?!

Staple gun & lots of staples. Hand or compressor, your choice.

Fabric

Batting-the kind that comes in sheets. I have no idea what the exact term is, but I know that you know what I am talking about.

Stencil & supplies (optional)

OK-in case my pictures and instructions are not exactly clear.

1. Measure your foam (my super scientific method is totally optional)

2. Now that you know how high your ottoman will be with the foam-you know how much you want to cut off. My table measured 16" high. I cut off 5 1/2" off of each leg. My trusty husband just pulled out his miter saw and it worked fabulously.

3. Cut strips of foam for sides of table. (this is so you don't have sharp edges.)

4. Staple your foam to the table edges. You might need a 2nd set of hands for this step.

5. Cover top with sheet of batting. (not pictured) This is so you don't have a weird, indented side.

6. Cover with your choice of fabric.

7. Staple, staple, staple.

8. Remove excess fabric.

Ok-so I tried two different fabrics before I decided on the 3rd option,

which happened to be a drop cloth from Lowe's.

1st try..

Fail!

2nd try..

Fail! Not liking this one either.

3rd try...

Ding, ding, ding! We have a winner!!

I did add some extra detail with my Cutting Edge Stencil in Kerry damask pattern.

What can I say, I love to embellish!

This project was super simple and like I said, super quick if you don't change your mind 15 times.

Definitely try this! You will love it!

Happy Creating!

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DIY Showoff

Lots of happy..

2012-01-03T12:36:00.002-07:00

Warning-this post is not about decorating, or crafting or using my glue gun at all. Unless of course I can figure out how to use my glue gun to lose weight…

Yep-this post is about me and my goal to lose weight.

I am fat!

There, I said it. I am a bit on the chubby side, ok a lot on the chubby side. This is not news to me. I just finally decided to accept it and do something about it. There is nothing better than telling a whole bunch of people that I am going to do something about my chubby self.

I know, I know, I have talked about losing my extra rolls on this blog before-but this time it’s different.

Why you ask? Well, I’m not really sure. Other than the fact that I am finally ready this time. I am finally ready to exercise 3x times a week and really put forth an effort to kick my diet coke habit. I’m finally ready to drink more water than one person should drink in one day and run up and down the stair 15 times because I have to pee. I am also totally going to count that running as activity points.

I am doing weight watchers. I have done weight watchers before. I have spent more money than I care to admit on ww online program before. Because I thought that I was “ready.” Well, apparently, just signing up and putting forth just a little bit of effort isn’t going to cut it. I have to actually want to do it. I have to actually want to really, really get rid of my muffin top. Oh, who are we kidding? It’s more of a “costco 3 layer red velvet cake with lots of cream cheese frosting” top. I surpassed a tiny old muffin a long time ago.

Why am I telling all of you this? Well-I figure since all of you are so supportive with my glue gun habit, you will be supportive with my diet coke kicking, water drinking, wanting to pass out exercising, eating more veggies than a rabbit NEW habit!

The only way to lose weight and fully embrace a new lifestyle is being able to laugh at yourself, hold yourself accountable and have people cheer you on.

So, every Thursday (my weigh in day) I am going to talk about my new lifestyle-aka-weight loss. I am going to post pics so you all can see what I’m doing and where I’m at. I would so love for some of you to join me. Or at least tell me to keep going and not drink the Diet Coke and eat the whole bag of Mint M&M’s. (I have 6 bags that I stashed)

I am going to be honest and share some things that are working for me. You so know that I am going to be honest. I just shared with all of you the fact that my muffin top has far surpassed a tiny muffin and grown into a red velvet cake top. Who tells people that? Anyway…

What’s working for me this week:

1. Water, water, water! I am not a big fan of water. I need it to taste like something. So, I fill my plastic pitcher than I picked up at the DI for a quarter, every morning with Fruit Punch flavored Crystal Light. My goal is to drink it all by 7pm. Why 7 pm? If I drink water much later than that-I am up all night running to the potty.

2. Veggies and fruits. All day long, every day. I went to costco and spent a butt load of cash on fresh veggies. My goal is to not let any of it go bad. So far so good. The pineapple spears that you can buy are so worth the $9.

3. Taking it one day at a time. I think that has been part of my problem in the past. I have looked at the entire amount that I want to lose (50lbs) and thought that there was no way that I am going to be able to do that. I like being fat…etc. Not this time around. ONE day at a time. I only look at my daily water intake, my daily exercise goal, my daily veggie intake.

A couple of my favorite things this week:

Go and LIKE the Studio 5- 10 pound challenge!

Yes-I do have a special place in my heart for Studio 5, but this will be fabulous! The health and fitness contributor is going to share daily tips and exercises. Sounds good to me. Plus-signing up for something, makes me a little bit more accountable.

Mykitchenadventures1.blogspot.com

I am loving this site! She is one fabulous cook and has one amazing site full of yummy recipes! Most of her websites have WW point values attached and awesome tips and ideas. Check it out-you will love her too!

Off to eat a salad and NOT drink a Diet Coke!

The Annie Sloan American Tour & Chalk Paint Giveaway {$150 value}

2011-12-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED! Thanks for entering

I am so excited to be able to tell all of you about this beyond fabulous giveaway for

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint!

If you are new here and are not aware of my addiction to this paint-I am here to tell you, I have one and it’s bad. I ♥ this paint! I love the versatility, how easy it is to use and of course the finished projects! There is not another paint that even holds a candle to the awesomeness of this stuff.

Convinced yet?

Or course you are!

Onto the details of the giveaway.

My fabulously, talented friend Mindy Harrel, designer extraordinaire, Annie Sloan Stockist and owner of Faux Assured Studio. If you are a local Utah gal, Faux Assured Studio is located in Park City. Mindy and her fabulous assistant Leah are happy to help you with any of your Annie Sloan paint needs.

Wondering what to include on your Christmas list? Or do you have someone on your gift giving list that you have no idea what to get her? How about sharing with them Mindy’s online store link and your favorite chalk paint color{s}? I love Pure White, Paris grey, Country Grey,Duck Egg Blue, Cream, Primer Red, Graphite and Old White. I have tried every one of these colors and I LOVE them all.

Country Grey Cream Duck Egg Blue

Graphite Old Ochre Old White Olive

Paris Grey Primer Red

What you win

Well one of you lucky chica’s will be the winner of this week’s giveaway and will get to try out two paint colors for free! The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Gift Basket is valued at $150 and includes the following:

2 quarts of Chalk Paint (winner gets to select her/his? favorite colors)
1 Clear Soft Wax
1 Dark Soft Wax
1 Annie Sloan book

But that is not all! To make this giveaway even more covetable, Mindy is joining with over 100 North American Stockists to highlight the opening of registration for Annie Sloan’s 2012 Workshop Tour. Yes, you read that right, Annie is coming to America!

A lucky winner of the holiday basket from each shop across North America will be entered for a chance to win a $350 gift certificate from Annie Sloan Unfolded. It is good toward your choice of a credit on your Annie Sloan American Tour registration fee or $350.00 in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! The big winner will be announced on Annie’s Blog on January 10, 2012. (This will be totally amazing and if you win, I will be beyond jealous!)

How to win

As with all Sassy Style giveaways-to be eligible to win, you must be a follower of Sassy Style Redesign Blog.

Become a follower of Annie Sloan’s Blog and comment with "American Tour 2012"
Become a follower of Restore Amore (our blog) and comment with "American Tour 2012"
Become a Fan on our FACEBOOK page and make a comment "American Tour 2012"

4. Last but not least, From now until December 30, 2012 Every Annie Sloan purchase will provide you with another entry. A fabulous gift from Faux Assured Studio

5. Make sure that you send an email to Mindy with all of this info.

$10.99 flat rate shipping anywhere in Utah for any size order.

{If you have purchased any paint from Annie Sloan this year-you already have 1 entry!}

Make sure that you leave a comment for each entry

EDITED TO ADD-

Faux Assured Studio will announce the winner on our ReStore Amore Blog on New Year's Eve.

Good Luck & Happy Entering!

Giveaway will end December 30th, 2011

Pixie Stix Sunburst Christmas Wreath {tutorial}

2011-12-08T21:17:00.001-07:00

Don’t forget to enter the $150 Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Giveaway

I have been a little pathetic in the crafting department lately. I could go on and tell you all about my stupid mouth, the laundry, the whole being a mom & wife thing, the Christmas list etc.

It seems that the list was not getting any smaller, so I said, Forget it. (I didn’t really say “Forget it”, I said something that rhymes “drew it”)

I had to craft! For my sanity, & for my families safety.

I decided to make a

Pixie Stix Sunburst Christmas Wreath.

It may be the longest title ever-but it is one of the one of the easiest crafts ever.

Cheap & Easy Craft…Promise!

I was inspired by Jen’s wreath. The only problem was, I didn’t have any of those super cute, red,striped straws or a wreath form or some super cute red, striped ribbon. Since we already discussed that I was crafting for my families' safety, they whole no supplies was a slight problem.

So I made my own version.

I did learn a couple of things along the way that I thought I would be super nice and share with you.

Your welcome!

Pixie Stix Wreath Tips

1. You really need to use good, heavy wrapping paper. I love “All wrapped Up.” If you are a local Utah gal, you can pick up this brand of fabulous wrapping paper at associated food stores and The quilted bear. It’s about $11 a roll, but this roll will last you for the rest of your life, so it’s a great deal. Cute Leslie-the owner of all wrapped up is who gave me the idea. Love her!

2. You will want to make sure that you use Gift Wrap Scotch Tape. It is smoother, it doesn’t rip your paper and you can’t see it. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t have it. I like the gift wrap kind better.

3. The only thing that would have made this craft better would have been Mint M&M’s. These are not required, but highly recommended.

Supplies needed:

Good wrapping paper

Gift Wrap Scotch Tape

Scissors

The longest pencil you can find

chipboard

embellishments

Ribbon-for hanging

Hot glue gun

Step 1

You are going to want to make 3 sizes of paper.

I made

6x6

8x6

10x6

I found that 6” was a little too big, so I folded them in half. 3” was much better! Instead of trying to cut out 3” wide strips, just fold the 6” in half and cut those. Even though the instructions are extremely wordy, it is easier.

Step 2

Make lots of strips of paper. You will need about 50 pixie stix.

Step 3

You will want to roll your pixie stix on an angle. This is where your pencil comes into play. You want to make sure to roll your pixies tight, but not tight that you can’t get your pencil out.

Step 4

Tape your final corner down. I did try to make the stix straight, but they took way longer and were NOT easier.
Remember, we are going for cheap & easy.

Step 5

Now you need to roll& tape, roll & tape, roll & tape. I made all the pixie stix that I needed while watching an episode of friends. So love that show!

Step 6

Cut out 2 circle shapes out of a piece of chipboard

Step 7

Now you start taping the pixie stix onto your circle. Make sure that you vary the heights and fill in where needed. Good old scotch tape worked quite well to stick the pixie stix on, but I did use a little bit of hot glue once all of the pixies were on.

Step 8

This is when you need to add the ribbon to hang with wreath with. You can use ribbon or bakers twine or whatever you want. Use the hot glue to adhere the ribbon on top of the pixies. Smoosh it down.

Step 9

Now you want to glue your other circle on top of all of your pixies.

Step 10

Cut a circle out of patterned paper and adhere to your chipboard with double stick tape. Embellish to your hearts content.

Step 10

I hung my wreath on my cupboards above my stove. This is the cupboard where my forgotten appliances live. Or, the only used once a year appliances. Cocoa-motion (i hide it in here, because my kids love it, but their mom, not so much) Panini maker. This was a total black Friday impulse buy a couple of years ago. When I do use it, it does make yummy Panini's, but I only use it maybe once a year.

I just used a push pin and pined the ribbon behind my crown molding. Worked like a charm.

Tell your husband you are going to be doing something cheap and easy….…

Happy Crafting!

Just in case you wanted to PIN it

Ps-Don’t forget to enter the $150 Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Giveaway

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All I want for Christmas

2011-12-04T12:22:00.001-07:00

I don’t want a lot this Christmas just a few, simple, cheap things.

Those are the things that mean the most, right?

Well, the thing that would mean the most to me right now, pens. Yep, you read that right.

Maybe I should broaden the spectrum and say Writing Utensils.”

I don’t know about your house, but at mine, we can’t seem to keep anything that writes within the walls of our home. I know that you all know what I am talking about. Say you get a phone call and your friend is telling you how to make your children stop talking, fighting, complaining etc.. This is ground breaking news and you have to write it down because you know if you don’t, you will forget.

You go to grab a pen and some paper. No pen, pencil, colored pencil, dried out marker or broken crayon to be found…anywhere. Your friend is sick of waiting for you to write down the ground breaking news, so she hangs up. Great, the next greatest invention in the history of the world was lost all because you didn’t have anything to write it down with.

Tell me, has this happened to you? I can’t be the only one who has the issue.

So, for Christmas, I want some writing utensils. Preferably some that have a super, obnoxious siren that goes off when small hands try to touch them.

Genius I know!

Tausha’s Christmas List

1. Writing utensils that only work when someone over the age of 18 uses them.

Too much to ask….nah!

The Crate & Barrel Ornament Segment

2011-11-28T20:02:00.002-07:00

This segment is the bomb.com
you will see what I mean in about 2 mins.

Crate & Barrel Ornaments

2011-11-27T22:03:00.001-07:00

This is my decorating/crafting version of

“Who wore it best?”

You so had better say it was me..:)

Crate & Barrel has some beautiful Christmas decorations. Since I love Christmas and decorating, Studio 5 figured this would be good fit.

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. BUT…when I realized that I could use puff paint & glitter, I was all kinds of excited! Here are a couple of tutorials on how I created my own version of the Crate & Barrel pretties.

Rosette Ball Ornament

This ONE ornament retails for $7.95. I knew it could be done for much less. I made 6 for the price of 1.

Supplies:

Ornament-Box of glass ornaments (6) is around $5.00 at Walmart. I prefer to use the glass over the plastic, but that decision is totally up to you.

Puff Paint-white/red/green/silver- 99 cents a bottle at walmart

Glitter-You want to make sure that you get the super fine glitter. Martha Stewart or Reflections brand at Michaels works great.

To make:

Draw a rosette with the puff paint on the ornament. Less paint is better.

Let dry completely. This will take around 1-2 hours to be totally dry. Outline your rosette with a 2^nd color. Let dry and hang on your tree.

Glitter Tree Ball Ornaments

This classy & sparkly ornament will add an elegant touch to your Christmas décor. Crate & Barrel’s version retails for $5.00 each.

Supplies:

Clear, glass &/or silver ornaments

Elmer’s Glitter glue in silver or white puff paint

White glitter-fine or “snow” glitter

Epsom salt or round, white sprinkles

To make:

You draw a “triangle-squiggly” tree with your puff paint. Repeat this tree or add a simple “branch” tree pattern to the entire ornament.

While puff paint or glitter glue is wet, sprinkle with glitter. Shake off excess glitter, and let completely dry. Add the salt or sprinkles inside the ornament. (this will resemble snow) Hang and enjoy.

Thread Ball Ornament

A simple, handcrafted ornament just might steal the Christmas Spotlight. With a price tag of $5 each, this is a much simpler and inexpensive version.

Supplies-

Plastic ornament or Styrofoam ball

Tacky or hot glue

Yarn-color of your choice

Bakers twine or string

To make:

Wrap the ball with yarn. You can do this in a perfect, circular pattern or all crazy like. I did both. Once your ball is covered with the yarn, now you layer your twine or string on top.

Glitter to your heart’s content. You can add glue then glitter or you could use Krylon Glitter Blast or glitter spray.

Candy Swirl Ornaments

C&B’s versions retail for around $5 each. You can make 6 for around the same price.

Supplies:

Ornament-Box of glass ornaments (6) is around $5.00 at Walmart. I prefer to use the glass over the plastic, but that decision is totally up to you.

Puff Paint-white/red/green/silver- 99 cents a bottle at walmart

Glitter-You want to make sure that you get the super fine glitter. Martha Stewart or Reflections brand at Michaels works great.

To make:

Draw a circle with the puff paint on the ornament. Less paint is better. Let dry completely. This will take around 1-2 hours to be totally dry. Draw a zigzag over the circle with a different color. Let dry and hang on your tree. You can also draw zigzags, swirly q’s, whatever your heart desires. The key with these ornaments is to layer your colors and patterns. Make sure each layer is completely dry before you add another.

Polka Dot Ball Ornaments

C&B-$3 each

These little ornaments pack a big punch, but a tiny price tag when homemade.

Supplies:

Small or mini ornaments.

Stick on jewels-you can pick these up at Michael’s or the dollar spot at Joann’s & Wal-Mart.

To make:

Stick jewels on ornament. I know, so simple but oh so fabulous!

So, now that you have all of these ornaments, what are you going to do with them? Of course you could hang them on a tree…

Or make a centerpiece or two

But my favorite thing to do with an overabundance of super, cute ornaments..

is to make a wreath.

(I used this awesome tutorial)

A couple of tips that I learned along the way

Don’t use plastic ornaments. The dollar is usually my go to place for all crafting supplies, but you will want to skip it this time. The paint will peel right off.

You are going to need to let your ornaments dry & you don’t want to mess up all the hard work that you just did. Styrofoam & bbq skewers.

Wal-mart is usually one of my least favorite places, but with this craft, it was my go to. They have everything you need. From puff paint, to glitter glue, to stick on jewels.

Oh, and one more thing. Even though this is the worst pic ever, the tip is fabulous! You can get these cutest sprinkles in the cutest containers. The little, white beads make perfect “faux snow.” Add the snow to your clear ornaments for a fun, whimsical touch.

Ok people-I think that’s it. Wait, one more thing, this is the perfect “kids” craft, if they are over 8. I have a lovely blue stain on my carpet to prove it.

Partying Here:

Winner-Winner-Chicken Dinner

2011-11-14T20:03:00.001-07:00

I think that is such a lame saying.

Sorry, even though I think it's lame, I knew that it would get you attention.

Even if it is only to have you agree with me on the lameness factor.

I am a little behind on my to-do list.

So..I hope that you will forgive me that I am just announcing the winners of the giveaway's.

NIKE

From

Choose to Thrive

Simply AJ

from

Queen of my Nest

Congrats AJ & Nike, so excited for you!

Stay tuned tomorrow or maybe Wednesday..

I got the glue gun and the glitter out! Watch out, I’m on a crafty kick.

(it’s about time…)

Toodles

A couple of secrets..

2011-11-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

WARNING:

This post is full of random, strange facts about me.

Whew!

What a week!

So sorry that I haven't been posting. I have been so dang tired at the end of the day, I did nothing but sit and eat my 1/4 c. of mint m&m's & watch TV.

Why 1/4 c.?

It's only 6 points. I know that 6 points is kind of high, but I love these stupid things, so I kill myself working out everyday so I can have a little treat.

SOO love Just Dance 3!

I actually like to exercise with this. (most of the time)

It does help that my girls have yet to beat a couple of my high scores..

I'm lame, I know.

We had a fabulous client this week.

Kim & Jason's home looked fantastic!

I love working with great clients. They make our job so much easier!

(pics to come)

Yesterday was the holiday fair at Weber State University.

It was so fun to get to meet so many people and share some of our Christmas decor tips.

I even got some Christmas shopping done.

I might have bought more for myself that I did for my kids, but I deserve it..right?

Tomorrow on my to-do list-

Clean my house-holy crap it's amazing how piggy my family can bed.

Also-I really, really, really need to

Clean my closet.

OK-I am going to confess something that I am sure will make you think less of me.

Not really, but it's pretty bad.

My closet..is a JOKE!

I have so many clothes, I can't fit anymore in there. (that so does not stop me from buying anymore)

I went to find my new leggings.

I looked where I know I put them, no luck.

I pulled everything out of the deep, dark corner in my closet, and still no leggings.

The" no leggings" pile of clothes still sits on a chair in my room.

The same chair that I told my husband was not a storage place for his clothes.

Same rules don't apply to me.

I'm the mom.

We have a business trip on our calender this week.

While he is gone, I am so not fixing diner.

That is what cereal is for.

Right?

PS-this pic is from a site that is called-Missing being Healthy.

Maybe I should take that as a sign?

Nah..

Obviously they have never been left for 5 days, with 3 girls, who do nothing but drive them crazy.

Cereal will make them stop fighting for at least 3 minutes.

Good enough for me.

Told you it was full of random facts...

Christmas Decor Craziness

2011-11-08T14:30:00.003-07:00

So I am going to admit that I am one of "those" people.

You know the people that set up their Christmas decorations before it's even Thanksgiving?

Yep-that would be me.

Is it bad that I am totally ok with it?

Being one of "those" people?

I have 1 tree done, 3 more to go.

Yep-I have 4 trees.

Crazy...um yes, slightly.

I even decorated my kitchen canisters.

Did I mention that I am also a die hard day after, don't sleep cause Target opens at midnight, after Thankgiving shoppper?

Now that we all know that I should be the conductor on the crazy train..thought I would share a little bit of what I have done.

Look at this cutest chair? Picked it up at the DI for $20!

Santa's Sweet Shop

My old elevator door spiffed up.

One more thing....

If you want people to ask you, "what is that heavenly smell", when they walk into your house.

You need this!

If your local, you can pick it up at

The Ivy Cottage in Farr West.

One room down, a couple more to go.

I know, I know, I'm Crazy!

PS-If you are local and want your house all decked out for the hoildays, we do that!

Excited? Um..yes!

P.Ps- We are speaking at the Holiday Fair at WSU on Saturday. To highlight the show, there is an article in the paper. Guess they think that my crazy need for spray paint, throws and pillows was paper worthy, because the wrote a story about us.

If you want to come to the show, information about times and tickets can be found in the article.

Is it bad that my children have no clean clothes or dinner for tonight,

but my house is all decked in red and green instead?

....Laundry and dinner are overrated anyway.

Girl Power!

2011-11-04T08:47:00.000-06:00

Am I the only one who is thrilled that it is Friday?

I am a little annoyed that my children will be out at 1..again..for no reason..

but that is a whole different subject.

I am speaking at this awesome Women's event in Brigham City tomorrow.

Everyone needs to recharge their girl power every once in a while!

It's called "The Woman's Forum". It's a day filled w/ "girl power" and a yummy lunch from

Iron Gate Grill! You should come!!

Saturday, November 5th 2011

9:00-2:30

Brigham City Utah

USU Campus!

The key note speaker is Brooke Walker! From Studio Five.

You should come just to hear Brooke! She is as amazing in real life as she seems on TV.

Tausha & Marci from "Sassy Style"

Chic on a shoe string will be attending!

Look what else is going on and how to sign up!!

From 10:10-11:00 Workshops

Growing Old Gracefully- Colleen Reid

Decorating your Home- Marci Toyn & Tausha Hoyt

Bullying- Jason Williams

Exercise -20 second fitness- Spencer Larson

From 11:10-12:00 workshops

Breast Cancer- Dr. Lance Bryce

Decorating your home- Marci Toyn & Tausha Hoyt

Slow Cooker tips- Karen Petersen ( she has written a cookbook-- 365 days of crockpotting)

Exercise-20 second fitness- Spencer Larson

Noon-12:40 Lunch

12:45-1:35 Workshops

Slow cooking Tips- Karen Petersen

Chic on a Shoestring- Alicia Richmond ( Appears on Good Things Utah)

Self Esteem- Kiersten Wilson

Fun learning activities for your children- Lisa Bergantz (Appears on Good Things Utah)

Family Fun- Jodi Wilding

1:45-2:35 Workshops

Chic on a Shoestring- Alicia Richmond

Re-entering College- Susan Williams

Family Fun- Jodi Willing

Relationships & Balancing your life- Troy Christensen

Pre-registration is $15.00 which includes lunch catered by Iron Gate Grill

$18.00 at the door

Who said that being a flake wasn't cool?

2011-11-01T09:55:00.004-06:00

OK-so Halloween is over..(barley) & now I'm thinking about Christmas!
Crazy?
Yes, probably, but I LOVE Christmas!
I think that there is a little bit of magic that comes from the fabulous holiday of red and green.

I am one of THOSE people.
I go crazy when it comes to Christmas.
So, I thought since it is snowing at my house,
it would be fun to show you to make your own Snow flakes for Inside.

Snow outside and snowflakes inside.

Kind of.

I made some snowflakes out of wood.

Paint sticks, rulers, cofee stirrers, popsicle sticks and any other wood I could find that was long and skinny.

I also used some of the those woodsie's circles.

I would have used some triangles and squares-but they didn't have any at the store. When I asked the girl if they had some somewhere else-she just stood there and couldn't believe that they didn't have any other shapes besides circles.

Off my little rant and onto the tutorial...:)

Ok-you will need 2 paint sticks per snowflake.

I used the great big ones-the kind they give you when you buy a 5 gallon bucket of paint

and the regular kind.

Pull out the hot glue gun and get flakey!!

(I know, that was sooo lame!)

Just glue and layer.

Really-you can't mess this up.

All of my kids made some as well.

The best part about this project-the more different they all are--the better.

Keep layering- Add some of the other sticks. You will need lots of glue sticks for this.

Lots!!

I found some small, pointy sticks. I just added these on the ends-for some intrest.

I then added some circles and I was done!!

You should then wait until 9:00 at night to spray paint.

Preferably the night before a big storm.

It's really is best if you then have to beg your friends husband to take his garage heater off of the wall so you can heat your garage because you have to paint some snowflakes..

RIGHT NOW..because you waited until the last minute.

Really-it's the best method.

Trust me..

I rigged up a some strange apparatus with a garden hoe, ladder, shelf and fishing line to get these painted.

I didn't take a picture..use your imagination.

Tip-I did bring them in the house to dry.

If it's cold at your house, I highly reccomend that you do this.

When the paint is dry-glitter-if you want.

You know my motto-everything looks better with a little sparkle.

Use the good glitter. Martha Stewart, or Joann'es does carry some sugar glitter as well.

It will stick much better and it's wayyy more sparkly.

Unless of course-you love having glitter ALL OVER YOUR HOUSE because it sticks to everything else except the flippin snowflake!!

Of course you can also use the Glitter Spray Paint.

You could use the white, or silver or blue.

CA-ute!

I hung them on my bannister. I am also going to put them in my tree-and probably my window.

My girls are begging to make more.

We will see how nice I am.

I also made this fun frame with the help of the dollar store and some fishing line.

LOVE this!! So easy, cheap and it looks awesome!

I showed how to make these and a couple of other fun winter ideas on Studio 5.

OK-the ridiculous amount of laundry is calling my name.

I really need a Diet Coke!!

Happy MoNdaY all!!

Anti-Procrastination Tuesday
Tutorial Tuesday
Anything Related
Anything goes
Crafty Lassie

Today's Creative Blog

Topsy Turvy Tuesday
Take a Look Tuesday

Giveaway from Adorn it.com

2011-10-26T17:56:00.003-06:00

Ok-I am so excited!

I am guest posting over at U-create with Kari.

I am sharing the tutorial for the

Paper Pizzazz wreath

You all know that you have been dying to know how to make your own giant wreath.

The instructions, pics and snarky commentary can be found over at U-create.

I got all of my supplies from a local Utah company called Adorn it.

I love this company and their papers, fabric and creativity!

These gals are fabulously talented! Love them too!

They have the Paper Pizzazz wreath in a kit-

all the paper and supplies that you need to make your own for only $20!

They also sell the square, wooden frame separate if you want to purchase that.

For the

Paper Pizzazz Wreath Kit

How to enter:

1-Like always-giveaways are only available to Sassy Style readers. If you are not following, it's super fun & your'e gonna love it!

2-Head over to the new Adornitblog.com and become a follower.

3-Like Adornit on Facebook.

4-Make sure that your email address is in your comment. I can’t tell you that you won, if you don’t tell me how to get a hold of you.

Giveaway will end Monday October 31st @ 12am.

Happy Entering!

Technical Difficulties

2011-10-24T20:30:00.001-06:00

Hey all!

I am now on day 14 of my

Dry Socket Drama.

Yep-it is almost as awesome as it sounds. I have posts planned, but not yet written. Pray for me to be better please. You all know that you miss my opinions, snarky comments and love.

Be back soon…

Thanks for understanding!

Don’t forget to enter to win

3 cans of Glitter Spray Paint!

Friday, Friday...

2011-10-21T20:10:00.001-06:00

Whew..what a day!

Truthfully, so glad that it's over!

Studio 5 this morning. If you missed it, check it out!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for 3 cans of the amazing Krylon Glitter Blast spray paint!

It is soooo fabulous!

Off to bed...

Do you have 5 doors that need wreaths too?

2011-10-21T00:13:00.017-06:00

I don't have 5 doors that need wreaths.

But, I do wish that I had double doors instead of just one.

My brother has them and I am totally jealous! They look super cute with 2 wreaths.

Totally off subject...

Anyway..I got to make 5 wreaths for today's Studio 5 segment.

It was fun trying to come up with 5 ideas that were unique and totally do-able at the same time.

There were a few products that I used that I really, really liked

I liked them so much that I wanted to give some away to you!

Wa-hoo-happy dance time!

I will have a new giveaway today, Monday & Tuesday.

Be excited cause they all rock!

Today's giveaway is some Krylon Glitter Blast spray paint.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this!

Did I mention that I LOVE this?

I have 3 cans to give you.

The things that you can do with this stuff is nothing short of flippin awesome!

***All the giveaway info is on the bottom of this post.***

The 5 fall wreaths that you will really, really want to make.

(Hopefully)

Go Big or Go Home

Supplies that you will need:
Paper and light square wood frame: Adornit.com

Witchy Poo

Supplies that you will need:

Wooden Hat and Boots-The Ivy Cottage

Glittery Goodness

Supplies that you will need:

Plain, Green Wreath available at Rod Works

Mini Button Wreath

Delightfully Double Sided

Too cute to spook...

Welcome Fall

Supplies that you will need:

Vinyl available at Uppercase Living

Large wooden Wreath Shape at Adornit.com

Glitter, Glitter, Glitter!

It is oh so fabulous..right?

If you want some more ideas that you can use the awesome Krylon Glitter Blast on

Check out:

Mandy from Vintage Revivals

Love her lampshade!

Jen from Tatertots & Jello

Super cute pumpkins & darling interchangeable jewelry!

Win 3 cans of Krylon Glitter Blast Spray Paint!

Here is how you do it:

1. This giveaway is only open to Sassy Style readers. If you are not a follower or subscribe-run and do it.

Then leave a comment & let me know.

2. Tell me what you would love to use the Krylon Glitter Blast on.

That's it!

Told you it was super simple! Monday & Tuesday's giveaways are just as awesome!

Giveaways will end Friday ,October 28th at midnight.

Good Luck & Happy Wreath Making!

2011-10-20T09:08:00.000-06:00

Because there are so many fabulously talented people in blog land, I had to introduce you to a few more today.

The uuber talented Jenny from Days of Chalk & Chocolate

has 2 awesome wreaths to share with you!

Get ready to pull out your glue gun and dig through your fabric stash!

I’m so excited to be here at Sassy Style! I was just tickled when Tausha asked me if I would like to guest blog during her wreath week and of course I said “Yes! Sign me up!” Thank you, Tausha, for asking me and for giving me the opportunity to talk about my wreaths! I adore making wreaths. I’m a complete wreathaholic but I refuse to seek treatment. I love my addiction too much!

We recently bought a new home and in preparation I made two wreaths for the fall. The first one I made was my corduroy ruffle wreath.

I really wanted to use colors that weren’t typical fall colors and when I saw this fabric in the remnant bin I knew it was exactly what I was picturing. And the corduroy is a nice texture to add to give it a bit of oomph. You can find the complete tutorial here.

My second wreath is perhaps my favorite wreath I’ve made recently. It is my Halloween wreath that blends a little glam with a little creepy!

It was so fun making it and super easy! Honestly, the most time consuming part was making the flowers since I did various different kinds. You can find my rolled flower tutorial here. The others are just mixed and matched or pieced together with some leftover ribbons and beads. I think using vintage brooches in place of some flowers would be fantastic too! Once you have collected your embellishments you can create your Halloween glam wreath.

Step 1: Gather your supplies. You will need 1 wreath form, about a half a yard ( maybe less) of white linen fabric cut into strips (I varied my lengths and widths), several long, wider strips of any white fabric, glue gun, black/white/gray embellishments such as flowers, beads, etc., black thread, and 1 black glitter foam sheet.

Step 2: Using your thicker, longer strips, start wrapping your wreath completely. Secure every so often with hot glue.

Step 3: Begin tying your smaller strips randomly around the wreath to create the look of mummy wrappings. I secured each tie with a small bead of hot glue so they would stay put. I varied where I tied the knot on the wreath, some are tied high and some are low.

Continue tying until you achieve the look you like. I ended up with strips every inch or so all the way around the wreath.

Step 4: Glue on your embellishments. Lay them out first on the wreath before you glue to find the placement you like best.

Step 5 & 6: Find a bat silhouette. I found one I liked on Google Images. Print, cut out, and trace on the reverse side of the glitter foam sheet. Cut out.

My glitter foam had a adhesive back. So I peeled it off after cutting it and I stuck it onto a length of thread. I then hot glued the bat to the thread to ensure it doesn't fall off. Next I tied the thread to the wreath in between the strips so the tied part was hidden by the fabric. Then I put a bead of hot glue on the back to secure it to the wreath. And done!

These wreaths are examples of when more is more but I love wreaths that celebrate simplicity. This is a ruffle wreath I made for my sister and I must admit I secretly wonder if I should sneak it out of her house and into mine! Ha!

I like the soft, neutral colors and the cluster of flowers add a little sparkle. Sweet and simple!

Happy Wreathing! And thanks again to Tausha for inviting me to be a guest at her beautiful blog!

Cheers!

Jenny

See? I told you that she was amazing!

Wreath Weak guest post -Tatertots & Jello

2011-10-20T00:30:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is the big day when I show off all of my fall wreath creations.

Are they done you ask?

Of course not!

I love to procrastinate! Really, it's my favorite thing to do. Especially when it comes to TV.

It's on my list of things that I want to try harder at.

#3 to be exact.

So to entertain you all in the meantime, I have invited my friend from Jen from Tatertots & Jello to share with us some of her favorite fall wreaths!

If you have never been over to visit Jen-you must.

She is fabulous in the inspiration department & truly one of the sweetest, miost genuine people I know.

Hello there Sassy friends! I’m Jen from Tatertots and Jello.

Tausha is such a source of inspiration and a great friend.

I am excited to be guest posting here!!

I’d love to share a few of my favorite Fall Wreaths!!

This might be my favorite wreath of all time. It’s felt flowers from my friend Kellie @ Nest of Posies.

And another gorgeous felt wreath. This one from Burlap + Blue.

Homemade Pom Poms made an awesome Fall Wreath. I love this one from Nature’s Heirlooms.

My sister Ashley made this pretty Embroidery Hoop burlap and felt wreath @ Tatertots & Jello.

And how about a Paper Wreath – this Paper Leaves Wreath is so pretty @ Diary of Dave’s Wife.

If you’re looking for a more organic Fall wreath, check out this Moss & Pumpkin Wreath @ High Heeled Hostess

Burlap is always a great material to make a Fall wreath. This Burlap Wreath is very pretty from @ Sweet Passions on a Thrifty Dime

You can also buy burlap in different colors. I love this Orange Burlap Wreath @ AZ Central for Fall.

Or how about a Fall Ribbon Wreath? This one @ LDS Craft Project is so pretty.

And how about combining two hot craft trends – yarn AND rosettes for a pretty Fall focal point. Like this wreath @ These Moments of Mine

Those are my Top 10 Fall Wreaths this season. There are so many other wreath ideas out there. I love seeing all of the great ideas that people come up with. I have a fun linky party on Friday nights – The Weekend Wrap Up Party. It’s a fun place to share what YOU are working on. I hope you can stop by sometime!

xoxo

Wreath Weak guest post -The 36th Avenue

2011-10-19T00:01:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone!
So, how are you liking wreath week so far?

Fabulous right?

I love blog world and all the fabulous people who share their talents and ideas!
I adore Des and I know that I have mentioned that before.
When I saw her latest wreath,I knew that I had to share it with you!
I'm sure that your are going to love her as much as I do!

Hello Sassy Style Readers!

I am Desiree from The 36th Avenue and

I am so HAPPY to visit my sweet friend Tausha today and share with you sassylicious people my Leftover Fabric Wreath TUTORIAL...

This wreath was SUPER simple to make... Keep in mind that you can customize it according to the Holidays...just use different colors of fabrics and embellishments.

Here is a small picture tutorial of the process...

{ first }

cut, roll, pin

{second}

Make your embellishments and go HOT glue CRAZY!

Mine has burlap and fabric flowers.

Green Yarn, Acrylic Crystals, and a little black birdie that I found at the Dollar $tore.

{ third }

Say it!

Add a little message...

{ fourth }

Hang it!

{ fifth }

...enjoy and share your work!

We are done!

...♥

Hey! That was too fast I just got here ;)

I would love for you to come visit The 36th Avenue and check out some other projects of mine...

Make sure you say "hi" while you are there.

Here are a few of my favorites:

The Mud Closet

Mod-Podge Fabric Pumpkins

Yarn Lamp Makeover

Thank YOU Tausha my love for having me today...

I love your blog and I love you... but I think you knew that already.

Have an EXTRAORDINARY day everyone...

Besos!

Desirée

Check back tomorrow to party with Jen from Tatertots and Jello & a few of her friends!

So excited!

Wreath Weak guest post -Lolly Jane

2011-10-18T00:41:00.002-06:00

This is a super fun party right?

Are you feeling wreathy yet?

My next guests are the superbly talented sisters from Lolly Jane!
I recently discovered their awesomeness and now I stalk them daily!
This wreath is just a taste of their grand & totally do-able ideas!
I know that you are going to LOVE them!

Hi Sassy Style readers!

We are twin sisters Kelli & Kristi from Lolly Jane.

Our little corner of blogland is filled with for home improvement tips, craft tutorials, holiday decor, recipes and a good before&after or two. We love how small touches of decor can customize a space and instantly make it yours.

Today we'll be showing off our Halloween ruffle wreath. This dainty little Halloween wreath came to us during a blooper craft attempt, actually.

We were trying to create a scrunchy, full wreath from cupcake liners for our Elmer's krazy glue challenge last month but quickly learned it didn't stick to the liners {d'oh!} so we busted out the Elmers fabric & paper glue instead and played around with them until we created this:

We had never seen a cupcake liners look like this type of ruffle so Kelli patted me on the back for creating this. Thanks, Kell :) Anyway it was super easy to make but somewhat time consuming... lots of cutting and well worth it, I think!

You can make this with just a few simple supplies:

1 pk. Halloween cupcake liners
Flat wooden wreath form ($2 @ Michaels)
Sticky craft glue (we used Elmer's)
Scissors and a fun partner to keep you sane ;)

To make this you will need to cut the center of the liner out:

And then get to wrapping:

1. Glue the liner to the back of wreath.

2. Wrap the liner around the wreath...

3. Keep wrapping...

4. ...until you have a little liner tail.

5. Add a dab of glue to the liner tail.

6. Press until it's sturdy.

Then repeat, repeat, repeat until you have a pile of cut liners that go from this to that:

Now to bling it out Halloween style :)

Just add tulle, strips of festive ribbon, punched out numbers {download here} and a cute tag {download here.}

Hang and enjoy!

Happy Halloween!!

We would love to see you on FB, Twitter or Pinterest :)
THANK YOU to cute Tausha for letting us join her party!

XOXO

Thanks so much Girlies!

If you haven't thought of cupcake liners for a wreath, we will be running to the store together!

Come back tomorrow to hang out with Desiree from 36th Avenue!

Wreath Weak Party guest post -Little Birdie Secrets

2011-10-17T00:00:00.001-06:00

So, I am in the process of making 5 wreaths.
I know, I know. Why in the heck do I need 5 wreaths?
How many doors do I have?
I have one door, and 1 tv segment on the 21st-all about wreaths.
I figured since I was in wreath mode, why not have everyone else be "wreathy" with me?

So..I'm having a PARTY and you are all invited!

I know that you are all excited!

Just wait until you see all the awesome guests

and

the fabulous wreaths that I will be

showing you this week!

Wa-hoo!

I am starting off the week with my fantastic friend Mandy from Little Birdie Secrets.

Mandy has hit the nail on the head with this wreath.

Simple+ inexpensive +totally awesome= my kind of wreath!

I am sure that you will agree with me after you read this.

Mandy here from Little Birdie Secrets, super excited to be a part of Sassy Style's fall wreath extravaganza! I loooove decorating for Halloween--the colors, the glitter, the eyeballs. . . I also love the vintage Halloween look, so I created this easy tulle wreath with a vintage sign to celebrate the fun of fall. Here's my easy tutorial!

Tulle Halloween Wreath & Plaque Tutorial

Supplies:

*Embroidery hoop (choose a size just a bit smaller than you want your finished wreath)

*Approx. 3 yards tulle off the bolt in black, purple, orange, or lime green (I used a combination of black rough netting and a softer tulle, both available at most fabric stores or at WalMart)

*Wide ribbon (mine was 6" wide) for bow and to hang wreath

*Wood plaque (ready-to-finish plaques are available in the wood aisle at craft stores like Michael's or Hobby Lobby, but I painted one I found at the thrift store)

*Black spray paint or acrylic paint

*Sand paper

*Book pages from an old book

*Computer and printer

*Adhesive (I used Elmer's Craft Bond spray adhesive, but Mod Podge would work, too)

*Clear coat spray or Mod Podge (I like Krylon's Matte Finish spray)

To create the wreath, I started out the same way I did in my Halloween Chandelier tutorial, with an embroidery hoop and about 1 yard of tulle off the bolt cut into 3" x 6" strips. Tie them on the hoop in a square knot. Then I added another two yards cut into longer strips (about 2" by 10"). These longer strips can be tied on the hoop in between the shorter strips until the wreath looks full.

That's it for the wreath! Now to dress it up a little. . .

You could hang any fun Halloween decoration in the center. I couldn't find what I was looking for at any stores around here, so I decided to make my own. I started with this awesome plaque I found at Goodwill for $.88. I know, it was pretty great the way it was. But alas. . . You could also find an unfinished wood plaque in the wood aisle at most craft stores.

Tausha has totally inspired me in the spray paint department. I've avoided it in the past, but after all the awesome projects I've seen her do with it, I decided to give it a try. Now I'm addicted! I sanded the plaque lightly to prepare it for the paint. Then I spray painted it black (including the hook). I like Krylon's Primer + Paint.

I cut the margins off the book page so it was just words. It wasn't quite as big as the plaque, so I had to cut and paste a couple of pages together to make it the right size. If you line up the text carefully, the seams won't even be noticeable.

Next I printed the words "Enter if you dare" and a witch graphic I found for free on Graphics Fairy on the book page. The font is called LD Genevieve Lower, which I found here at Scrap 'n Fonts.

You could use Mod Podge to adhere it to the plaque, but I wanted a quicker drying, less messy option, so I used spray adhesive. It was on in about 10.2 seconds.

Then I sprayed the whole plaque with Krylon's Matte Finish spray to protect the paper and the wood and let it dry. Again, you could Mod Podge over the top if you wanted.

I tied a 6" wide ribbon on the hook at the top of mine. If you don't have a hook, you can hot glue a bow on top, then add a picture hanging hook to the back.

I hung the wreath from another piece of ribbon, first stringing the ribbon through the hook on the plaque. Spooky, eh? And pretty cute, too!

Thanks so much for letting me share, Tausha! I hope you'll all come visit me for more fun Halloween and fall ideas at Little Birdie Secrets!

Thanks so much Mandy!

I so love her!

If you haven't been stalking Little Birdie Secrets regularly, I highly suggest that you start!

Come back tomorrow to visit Lolly Jane!

Excited!
See you all tomorrow!!

All of my Spray Painting Tips & Tricks

2011-10-16T16:34:00.000-06:00

I love to tell people what to do. Just ask my family. I know that they love to be told what to do too. They are totally LYING if they say otherwise.

So, I am here to ~~tell~~ give some advice on how to spray paint anything.

I have an addiction to spray painting.

It's bad!

I have now decided to take my addiction outside.

Spray painting my grass, outdoor rugs, and a polka dot chair?

Yep-told you I had an issue.

I have done a couple segments on TV all about the wonders of spray paint.

I have to admit, I have a love affair with the stuff.

Thought I would share why and what I love.

So grab a Diet Coke or beverage of your choice and prepare to be amazed by the power of the paint in a can!

You should totally make the ooh and ahh sounds that people make when they are watching fireworks. The whole post will be so much more entertaining!

The Sassy way to Spray Paint!

What do/can you spray paint?
Well anything that doesn’t move is a good start.
Although my white dog has been seen with a coat of Colonial Red, a couple of times. It’s so not my fault that the dumb dog will not get out of the way of the downwind spray!

METAL:
Fixtures. Do you have brass fixtures at your house? How about doorknobs, light switches, lights, heat vents. Anything that is metal can be sprayed with very little skill.
So next time to head to thrift store, look at all the ugly brass stuff and know that it too can be beautiful.
This idea also goes for outside your home as well.

YES! You can totally spray paint your front door. Just take it off the hinges first. The reason why you do this-is because if you take it off it's hinges and lay it flat-you have gravity on your side. It wont run!!! Yea!

Just make sure that you do a couple of coats of spray paint and a good coat of outdoor polyurethane.

When I painted my door-I used spray paint on the first coat and then I rolled on a second coat with Red in Behr paint and primer.

Hope that this makes sense!!
Before: After:

Think outside:

Now, which one looks better? A quick coat of spray paint and voila!!!

Plastic:

Anything plastic can be spray painted. Those ugly plastic lawn chairs from wal-mart-need some color? Grab a can of plastic primer. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST! If you don’t do this, the paint will scratch right off.

They do have plastic spray paint-but they only have lame colors at my Home Depot-so I did the primer and then Rustoleum Apple Green.

I can't believe how fabulous it turned out!! I am going to do this to all of my chairs now.

Do you have a patio set that has seen better days? They have great hammered/metal/metallic spray paint. It looks awesome on metal patio sets.

Wood:
How are your kitchen chairs looking? How about your barstools? Cupboard doors?
Go and find that perfect color and go to town. When you are finished with the paint make sure to hit it with a coat of spray polyurethane. This will protect it from getting nicks and scratches.

Wicker:
How many of us have a wicker chair or two or passed one up at the thrift store because it was looking a little ragged? A quick coat of spray paint will do just the trick to liven it up! Think of it as happy painting. You will want to prime wicker first. This will cut down on the amount of paint that you use.

Before After

So much cuter!! I love this color!!

There are tricks to spray painting. I have learned most from trial and error. So, I can save you a lot of frustration and maybe one or two swear words.

Tip 1:

It's all about the product. You know how you can buy some, no name brand foods at the store? Then, there are some foods that you just don't mess with.

(Philadelphia cream cheese ALL the way! Nobody likes chunky cream cheese frosting!)

Well, my opinion about spray paint is along the same lines.

I ONLY use

RUSTOLEUM 2X COVERAGE Spray paint

The Depot is the only place that I have found that carries this.

Tip 2:

I am partial to Satin Finish Spay paint.Gloss highlights all of your impurities and flat just falls um...flat.

Sassy says, Satin..all the way baby!

Tip 3:

Prime! People, I can't emphasize this enough.

If you prime, the whole painting experience is much more enjoyable.

I like Rustoleum primer. The can will run you about $2.44 ish.

Money well spent!

I have never learned my lesson and I will ALWAYS prime!!!
Primer gives the spray paint something to stick too. This is what you will want to do on ceramic and glass especially!

Before:

Primed with Rustoleum Primer

After:

I also really like Bulls-Eye primer by Zinnser. It’s only $4 -ish at Lowes and you get a huge can!

YES, this is the primer that you need to paint “Fake Wood Furniture!”

Tip #4

Rustoleum makes this fabulous spray paint gun thing.

It runs about $6.

Best money I have ever spent!

This is not the cheap gun. Spend a little bit more money, trust me on this-your finger will thank you.

BUT-I must preface that this gun only works with fat nozzled spray paint.

Tip #5

Don't stop moving!

You got to move it, move it..(sorry I couldn’t resist)

Move your hand over the surface continually.

If you don't, this is how you will get splotches.

Multiple thin coats will give you the smooth, even coverage that you are looking for. Sometimes, some splotches are unavoidable. Don’t freak out! You can use a light sandpaper to GENTLY buff the piece before you use your color.

Tip #6

Don't get too close.

I know that you are super excited for the project to be finished.

BUT-don't rush it.

If you get too close, you WILL get runs.

There is nothing worse than a run or two, or three. Nylons or paint related, they both make you swear!

Trust me on this one.

Talking from personal experience.

Tip #7
Make sure whatever you are spraying is clean and dry. Wipe it with a damp rag or spray it down with the hose if you need to. It really is not that fun to spray cobwebs. Plus-it looks ugly!

Tip #8

Don’t rush the drying process. I am an extremely impatient person. I hate to wait! But, when it comes to this. Time is your friend. Especially if you are going to be sanding anywhere that you have sprayed. If the paint is at all tacky when you try to sand-lets just say it’s definitely not a fun thing. Just wait.

Tip #9
If you want it to be protected-use a coat of poly. It wont be super shiny or anything. It just gives it a finish and a protectant coat. If you are keeping your item outside-spar urethane. I like Helmsman’s brand.

This will protect from sun, moisture and temp. It's a little more money per can, about $8ish. But, I use it for everything and it is sooo much easier than painting regular old poly on with a brush.

Ok-I told you that you can paint just about anything that doesn’t move. This includes pillows.
You really can! I wouldn't put them in my house or anything, but they are perfect for outside!!
I got an ugly leather pillow at the thrift for $1.00-
I thought what the heck.
So..it went from this... (ugly..i know)

To this: (I primed in between steps)

I thought it needed a little something so I added the polka dots.

Everything is cuter with polka dots!!

I tried this on a pillow form also.

I love this!

I know this look isn't for everyone, but it's a cheap alternative to the expensive outdoor pillows.

I polyed both of the pillows to protect them.

If I were to do this pillow again....

I would have primed it first. Then painted it green, then added the vinyl polka dots, then sprayed aqua.

Did you get all that?

So...I am pretty sure that anything that doesn't move can be spray painted.

I would spray paint my children if they held still long enough! ☺

So...go outside and spray paint something...it will make you feel good!!

Happy Painting!!

PS- If you get addicted, it’s TOTALLY ok! It’s also TOTALLY ok if the people at Home Depot know you by first name. You are in good company!

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Skeletons, Spooks & Over sized Tricycles

2011-10-11T16:01:00.004-06:00

I had my tooth pulled on Friday & I woke up today with a dry socket.

Because my hole in my mouth hurts, all I have done this weekend is eat ice cream, sleep and watch Good Luck Charlie with my girls. (one of the few Disney shows I can stand. Although, Phineas & Ferb-Hilarious!)

I thought that I would share a couple pics of my Halloween insanity.

I love this holiday! I’m sure more than is normal. There is just something about gross, icky, spooky and cute all coming together that make me happy. Plus, when you add glitter to the whole equation, what’s not to love?

Example #1

Also, what other holiday besides Halloween, would my Mr. Skeleton(who I brought home from Mexico) be considered super cute? Really, what's not love? Look at those teeth..the Tie!

Example #2

What other holiday besides Halloween, would you want to display a miniature skeleton on an oversized trike? Spooky & Fabulous!

Random thought…

Ok-these shelves is a perfect example that you don’t have to fit into a particular decorating box. These shelves are a mix of all kinds of styles. I have to point out my mirror. This mirror would normally not fit into my “decorating style.” BUT-when I saw it, I LOVED it! I knew that it would fit the space perfectly!

Decorating Tip

Think outside your decorating box. Pickup something that you wouldn’t normally put in your home. You just might surprise yourself!

Example #3

My strange obsession with owls is not only totally ok, but embraced!

Example #4

What other holiday would people giggle instead of gasp at my Prof. Bones school scene?

Example #5

Halloween is the only time of the year when people don’t look at me oddly when I cackle, or if my brooms falls out of my car. I’m not big on the hat though. It messes with the hair too much.

On a completely unrelated topic. I may or may not have been savoring these pages since the beginning of October..

I can’t wait to wrap my kitchen cupboards!

Partying at:
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Tutorial Tuesday
Anything Related
Anything goes
Crafty Lassie
The 36th avenue

Whoever said that money can't buy happiness...

2011-10-04T08:45:00.003-06:00

Is a big, fat liar!

Stopped in at Sweet Tooth Fairy..

and I bought this..

Oh, and I got these linen, drum shades from Target for $3.76 instead of $20+ each!
Check out this for possible current savings.

Yesterday was a Happy, Happy, Happy Day!!!

Money did buy me some happiness yesterday!

How to Re-upholster a chair without sewing a stitch!

2011-09-30T18:08:00.004-06:00

I am totally not kidding!

You can re-upholster a chair without sewing a stitch.

Not a SINGLE ONE!

Curious?

Of course you are?

Who wouldn't be?

Now you can recover that old, green, flowered 70's chair that has been sitting in your garage just waiting for you to learn the "upholstery" skill.

The wait is over my friends!

This is my beautiful, fabulous, you so know that you want it, AFTER!

Does this chair not just say Happy, Happy, Happy!

I was happy, and I did the happy dance, and it made my happy

because it only took me 30 minutes to do the whole chair!

That is NOT a typo!

Start to finish-30 mins!

I had this chair that I have loved ever since I bought it 5+ years ago.

It is extremely comfy and I have rocked all my chicakadees in this chair.

I just couldn't get rid it.

Even if it was a pale pink, green and cream plaid.

Hey-those were the "in" colors.

Don't judge!

I found this little blanket/lap quilt/mini comforter at the thrift store over a year ago.

I bought it with the intention of just covering the chair and calling it good.

Well, it was a little too small for this purpose, so it looked nice and pretty for the reveal of my craft room.

But after that, the fabric was such a pain to have re-tuck it after anybody sat in it, it went to live in the deep, dark, scary, linen closet.

(it's scary in there! Again, don't judge)

I had an epiphany this morning. Why can't I just "pin-cover" it?

So, I pulled out my scissors, upholstery pins and some fabulous fabric that was leftover from this

Outdoor Fabric TV segment.

I wrapped the cushion like a present with this fab, flower fabric.

Just cut your piece of fabric large enough that it will wrap around the whole piece.

Now, pull and pin.

Just make sure that you use the u-pins.

(upholstery pins-this word is uber long and takes a long time to type out.)

source

They hold the fabric in place much better.

Once your pretty cushion is wrapped and fabulous, move on to the chair.

I put the cushion in first so I would know where I needed to pin the fabric into place.

I pinned the piece to the back of the seat & then tucked the fabric into the chair.

Like so..

I then pinned the fabric to the underside of the arms before I started cutting.

Then I started cutting the middle.

Now, DON'T cut the entire thing out and not pay attention to what you are doing.

I started cutting in one corner-about 5" up from the bottom.

Keep cutting until the whole center piece is missing. See how the bottom is still intact?

You want this. Don't cut the bottom piece off!!

It is not required, but totally awesome if you don't bother to

clean out the chair before you start taking pics.

I figure we are all friends here and I can't be the only one who would/have done this.

(sorry, I didn't take pics of the next step-it's not hard though)

Then I started pulling and pinning the bottom. I started at one corner and then moved to the next corner. I pinned the bottom, front last.

Then I pulled the fabric and pinned to each side of the chair-just below the arms.

Just around the corner from where you pinned the bottom into place.

Maybe I should mention that I didn't have to cover the entire chair..

It is in a corner of a room and so the only part of the chair that you see is the front and the arms.

You could still do this even if you did see the whole chair.

You would just have to cut and pin more.

(I know, you're thinking..DUH!)

I put the cushion in and did a little bit of tucking, but not too much.

Because the fabric that I used to cover the cushion was outdoor/heavy fabric, the fit with the cushion was a little snug. This turned out to be perfect.

I would recommend that you cover the cushion with a heavy fabric.

When you are all finished-you will probably want to use some of this fabric protector

aka- Scotch guard.

This is cheaper than scotch guard and you can pick it up at Jo-anne's.

It is around $12.00 a bottle.

If you happen to be spraying and the spring breaks in the squirter thing-no worries.

Just ask your husband to take this lid off ,because it- is -on soooo- flippin -tight,

and pour it into a squirt bottle.

All fixed! Just cross out the

"don't use this bottle-it has dog pee remover in it." that u wrote on the bottle you chose to use.

Did I mention that you should thoroughly clean the bottle that you choose to use first?

You should clean the bottle.

Now you have a chair that is beautiful, happy and was super easy and cheap to do!

Best Part-No sewing skills required!

You don't even have to know how to thread a needle.

Not too shabby for a girl who has new sewing, needle threading,

or any other skills that go along with seamstress.

Go and look for a chair you can re-do now.

We can start a non-sewing upholstering chairs club.

I call head t-shirt maker~!

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Tatertos and Jello

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The best MASCARA ever!

2011-09-23T20:53:00.004-06:00

OK-so you know how there a few things that we as women are constantly in search of?

The perfect jeans..you know the pair that makes your butt look smokin hot, your tummy look like you never had children AND the little fact that you can breathe when you wear them.

Am I wrong?

What about a fabulous Hair Girl?

She keeps all of your secrets,

agrees with you even though you know that she totally thinks that you were wrong

& she makes you look one smokin hot chica?!

We can't forget about the never ending quest to find the perfect mascara.

I'm sure that a lot of you don't know this about me, but I ADORE makeup.

I am obsessed with it actually. I LOVE it!

In my opinion, a good day can be turned into a GREAT day with a quick trip to the MAC counter.

I know that not everyone has the same love affair with makeup that I do.

BUT..I do know that almost every woman wants to know if the perfect mascara exists.

Am I right?

Of course I am!

Well I think, no, I know that I have found the PERFECT mascara!

First-I will share with you my regulations that are required for the perfect mascara.

1-It does not come off under your eyes so you look like a raccoon.

I can't be the only one who has this problem? I have super long lower lashes and super short top lashes.

It's so AWESOME!

Apparently I was in the wrong line in heaven when they were handing out long lashes.

So, I have to fake it.

2- It stays on & makes your short lashes look longer and your thin lashes look thicker.

3-It doesn't cost as much as a new car. It has to cost less than $25.

I have paid more money than that in the past and I was sorely disappointed. I knew that there had to be a mascara that existed that was awesome and didn't require a 2nd mortgage to be taken out on my house.

Are you dying to hear what it is..

Benefit They're Real! Mascara

The pro's:

Benefit is the company that makes it. So, it is readily available.

You can pick this up at Ulta, Sephora, Macy's, Amazon.

It has a fabulous wand! In my opinion, the wand makes all the difference.

It makes my lashes look like they actually exist.

This mascara rocks because it curl's, volumizes and separates your lashes.

It's long wearing, so it doesn't smudge off by the time your done eating breakfast, lunch or even dinner.

This fabulous stuff is only $22!

Yep, the most perfect mascara is under $25!

Sweet!

The con's:

You have to use eye makeup remover to get it off.

People will stop you and ask you how you got such beautiful lashes? (this can get so annoying really fast..)

If your still not convinced, check out this before and after..

Source

This stuff really is the bomb.com!

How to win your own tube of They're Real! Mascara

1- Follow or subscribe to Sassy Style Redesign
2. -Tell me your favorite makeup product that you can't live without.

(make sure that you leave a comment for each one. Oh, and don't forget your email address.)

The Benefit line is pretty fabulous! I have also discovered a few more things that I can't live without.

There Stay Don't Stray Primer is one of the greatest things that I have ever put on my face!

Totally not exaggerating either. Pores, what pores?

You put your eye makeup on how long ago?

There you have it. Now you know a few more things about me.

I love spray painting, Diet Coke, and makeup!

What is your favorite "can't live without" makeup?

Remember, were all in this together! We have got to help each other out.

Especially when it comes to looking fabulous!

Partying at:Tatertots & JelloFancy this Fridays
Finding fabulous
It's a hodge podge Friday
Look at me I'm so crafty
Creation Corner
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Show and Tell Friday
Creative GeniusNot just a housewife

And the winner is....

2011-09-21T12:30:00.000-06:00

The winner of the Annie Sloan Chalk paint giveaway is:

# 63- Short & Sweet

(courtesy of Random.org)

Short & Sweet-I don't have your email address, so please shoot me the info ASAP!

Congrats!

No worries if you didn't win..I will be having another SPARKLY giveaway soon!

Thanks for playing!

Something else besides decorating

2011-09-19T20:29:00.001-06:00

So, I went to the Dr. today.

I'm sure that you are thinking..why?

And why are you telling us?

Well, I figure that I can't be the only one who feels like I want to kill someone at least once a day.

Or that I am the only one who sometimes has the patience of an egg shell.

I can't be the only one.

I just can't be!

source

So, I'm writing about it.

I'm also going to write about the stupid scale and how it can totally ruin my day.

I am also going to tell all of you that I am super annoyed with myself because I have been doing

Weight Watchers for the past 2 1/2 weeks and I am up!

Really?

Are you kidding me?

I'm trying to be so good and exercise & not eat every sugary thing in the house.

Have I ever mentioned that I am addicted to sugar as well as Diet Coke?

Yea, it's bad.

source

So, there you have it.

I'm on a ~~diet,~~ lifestyle change and I occasionally want to rip someones head off.

Sometimes, when I talk to some people they stress me out so much, I just want to EAT something by the time we hang up.

Usually something really, really sweet.

Say, Sweetened condensed milk?

Can I get an amen?

If you don't like sweetened condensed milk-I'm so sorry for you, but please insert something that you must eat when you are uber stressed.

If you are one of those people who want to exercise instead of eat when they are stressed...

Just don't tell me that. (not today anyway)

So, I have a couple of questions for you..

Please tell me that I am not the only one who is starting a lifestyle change, aka diet?

Also, share if you want to occasionally choke someone or throw a chair at them.

If you don't want to admit that, you had to at least giggle when read this pin..

source

On a totally un-joking note.

I hope that I didn't offend anyone.

If I did, I apologize.

Sometimes I get overwhelmed with my life and I know that I can't be the only one who feels this way.

So, I thought if I made you feel comfortable knowing that you are not the only one who is freak, we could be better friends. :)

So, please share if you are trying to be good at this whole eating thing.

Also, feel free to share what you are doing and/or eating so you can stay on track.

We're all in this together..why not help each other out?!

I will be back soon..maybe tomorrow..to show you the new couch

and the ridiculous amount of Halloween decor.

Pretty sure that this pin describes me to a tee.

source

At least that's what my husband says.

The cutest desk you have ever seen!

2011-09-16T10:50:00.001-06:00

Well, maybe that's a bit of a stretch..

but it is pretty flippin cute.

Yes, I am a little biased..

I am embarrassed to tell you exactly how long this desk has been in my garage.

Let's just say that it had become an almost permanent fixture.

I brought her out into the sunshine yesterday, pulled out my Annie Sloan ~~crack~~, & gave her a new look.

Wonder why I call all of my furniture "her"...

Anyway..

This desk turned out better than I had hoped.

I would really, really, really love to keep her, but I have nowhere to put it.

That would be one of the problems that come from having too much crap!

Who collects furniture anyway?

I have to point out the knobs.

This desk has on some super cute bling!

I didn't have 8 knobs that were all the same.

I know that you are thinking that I should have just went and bought some.

Even at 1/2 off, 8 knobs would get pretty pricey.

Oh, did I mention that these 8 knobs are only for 2 of the 7 drawers?

So, I improvised.

I went through my collection of hardware.

What?

Doesn't everybody have a collection of hardware?

I found some knobs that I liked and sprayed them all the same color.

These are not the knobs that I used, but I wanted you to see how I paint them
Styrofoam, skewers, primer, paint & poly!
Simple!

I LOVE how this turned out!

This Shabby Chic desk is darling & has tons of storage as well.

This would be the perfect addition to your home office, child's room, craft room, or your kitchen.

This desk could also be used as a buffet or sofa table. (this would be sooo cute!)

Desk is painted in a creamy white, antiqued and then waxed for extra durability and a fabulous finish.

Knobs are a unique shape and style. Painted in a soft, moss green. Desk has 7 drawers.

Dimensions:

44 1/2" long

20" wide

29 1/2" high

$149.00

Pickup available in North Ogden

Cash Only please

Call or text Tausha @ 801-737-4554

Have a happy weekend!!

Pin It

I haven't forgot..

2011-09-15T20:53:00.000-06:00

I haven't left you out in the cold.
I just had my camera yesterday, in my hand, in my bedroom.
Now, I can't find it.
Although, I haven't looked that hard yet, I'm sure it's here somewhere.
If any of you have seen it, let me know.
I'm sad I can't find it, I painted the cutest desk today. I can't wait to show you.
I think that I love that stinkin Annie Sloan ~~crack~~, I mean paint, even more than I did yesterday.
Thanks for understanding!

Annie Chalk Paint..the basics

2011-09-12T21:07:00.011-06:00

Ok-So I figured that I would start with the basics.

Becauase everyone needs to know the basics..right?

And to tell you the truth, I am still learning the in's & out's of this piant as well.

This cute little table has been sitting in my garage.

Dusty, dirty, but not forgotten.

I was waiting for the perfect opportunity to make her pretty again.

Really, I just have so much crap in my garage, I had to paint a bunch of other stuff to even get to it.

You wont judge me, we're all friends here..right?

Ok-This is what I used, what I did and how she turned out.

(Fabulous)

First, I had to paint this table with some blue.

Purely for selfish purposes.

I knew that if I painted her blue, I couldn't keep it.

No match=one less piece of furniture that I need to find a home for.

I painted one coat of Old White. I let it dry for 24 hours.

(just because I was too lazy to get out and get it done sooner)

You don't have to wait for the paint to dry for 24 hours before you add a 2nd color or sand or wax.

Like I said, I was being lazy.

When you paint, you don't have to be perfect. In fact, you don't want it to be perfect.

One of the main things that makes Annie Sloan's paints awesome is that you use them to create texture.

(we all know that I am kind of a freak about texture)

The more brush strokes that you have, the more the piece will appear aged.

Think old furniture=lots of layers of paint.

So, paint in different directions and just have fun with it.

(this is a different opinion from what I have said in the past. I changed my mind, I like and love the crazy paint look.)

I wanted some of the original finish to come through.

This is total personal preferance.

Now is the time when I really got to play while working.

I pulled out the Duck egg blue, dipped my brush in & then wiped most of the paint off on a paper towell.

Then I dry-brushed the blue over the white.

You can see how some spots are darker.

It kind of bugged me, so i sanded just a little bit.

Now can you see the weird drippy spot in the middle?

It was kind of driving me crazy, but I knew I could fix it later if I still wasn't loving it after the wax was on.

I then pulled out the wax.

I used both of the waxes. Clear first, dark second.

You totally don't have to do this.

You can use one or the other, or you can make your own custom wax color. (more on that later)

If you use just the dark wax, the duck egg blue turns a great green color.

source

I just learned that this would do this.
See, we are totally learning together.
I am so going to try this out...soon! Maybe tomorrow..hmmm
Guess it depends on how much I want a clean house or feed my family.
I'm thinking that the paint just might win out.

Anyway..
I showed a mini tutorial on how I wax on Studio 5.

Waxing your furniture will protect it and help it hold up against everything
your kids &/or husband can throw at it.
Cars, tea-cups, shoes etc..

Remember that funky, weird spot on the side?

I waxed and it still bugged me.

So, I sanded it more and then I was happy with it.

I think that it was the combination of the wax and sanding.

Again, my total personal opinion.

The Clock table took me about 25 mins. once the first coat was dry. That includes drying time.

Remember that you don't have to prime with this paint!

So, it saves you a ton of time!!

I can't wait to show you what this paint does with the help of a blow dryer!

I understand that you probably don't need to see a picture of a blow dryer, but I am in the mood for lots of pictures.

Come to think of it, I'm in the mood for a foot massage and some chocolate too.

Wonder if that is going to happen..

Happy Painting!

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Annie Sloan Chalk Paint GIVEAWAY

2011-09-11T21:50:00.003-06:00

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED

If you are looking for the furniture featured on Studio 5 that is available for sale...

Click here

Wanting the Sassy Annie Sloan chalk paint 411?

Click here

I am so excited about this giveaway!

Almost giddy!

Why?

Well, I love this paint!

I Adore this paint!

I am starting to sound like a freak...

Lets just say and I love this paint and I want you to be able to love it as well!

Yea, I am nice like that...:)

Well, the Faux Merchant wants you to LOVE it as well!

Here is what you can win...

(It's so awesome!!)

One quart of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

(your choice of color)

One Annie Sloan wax

BOTH of them!

How sweet is this deal!

Want to know how to win?

How to enter

-You must follow or subscribe to Sassy Style Redesign.

-Like Faux Assured Studio on Facebook.

Make sure that you leave a comment for each of the entries.

Don't forget to leave your email address so I can notify you when you win!!

Giveaway will end Saturday, September 17th @ midnight.

Happy Entering!

I hope you win!

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint..I think I love you

2011-09-11T20:49:00.004-06:00

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a can of Annie Sloan paint & wax!
Pin It

No, not think. I'm sure that I LOVE Annie Sloan Chalk Paint!(now will be referred to ascp)

I have been "playing" with ascp for a few weeks now.I have mixed and mixed and waxed and mixed some more.My hand has been numb from painting on more than one occassion.
All this week, I will be doing Sassy Tutorial's on Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.I will be showing you how to get the looks oulined below.Basically, I will hold your hand through the whole process.Well, as much as I can hold your hand through the computer..BUT-I think that I am going to get brave and try my hand at VLOGGING!(video blogging)I will show you why the majority of my clothes are mostly paint clothes& my ridiculous addiciton to Diet Coke.I know, you are super excited!Me too, but you have to remember..the camera will add 150 lbs.Or was that 15lbs..?
Please note... I am not a proffessional painter!I just want to share the things that I learned from using ascp.If you want more info, anniesloan.com is full of inspiration.Annie Sloan has a facebook page as well. You can post a question on her page and she will asnwer you.
Ok-enough chit chat, onto the reason why you are reading this post..
What I LOVE about Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.

I am here to tell you that every fabulous thing that you have read or heard about ASCP is all true!

Yep, it is fabulous!

In my opinion:

It's the BEST paint for painting furniture by a long way. Now, you all know that I love me some spray paint. I LOVE it! BUT, after using ASCP, I will not ever redo another piece of furniture

without using this paint. Ever!

Why? This paint is absolutely beautiful to work with. It goes on smoothly & without any hassle. You can use the paint by diluting it with water to make more of a wash to show the wood grain. This paint allows you to change your mind mid paint job! It is Awesome! The only way that I can explain it is, this paint is more pliable. Think of acrylic paint & how easy it is to mix colors, wipe it on or wipe it off.

Well, ASCP is just that, but for your walls & furniture.

You can use it on any surface, indoors and out.
ANY surface!
Furniture, walls, floors, etc.
I wanted to try it on a few different surfaces.
So, I pulled out some wood, plastic and ceramic. I even painted some "fake wood" furniture.
It adhered to everything, no problem.

The best parts about this paint….you do NOT need to prime anything!

Ever!

Just clean the surface that you want to paint and ASCP will stick.

Not kidding!

I recently painted my wooden banisters. I wiped them down with water and then started painting.

I did not use a super cleaner or anything to strip the varnish off.

The paint adhered perfectly! I know of no other paint that will do this.

The How to:

This paint is pretty self explanatory.

There are just a couple of things that I learned along the way that I wanted to share with you.

Tip #1

When you paint-use the best brush that you can get.

Home Depot has a good, better, best section.

Get a brush in the “best” section. This will make painting so much easier!

I really like these brushes from Home Depot.
They are around $13 for the pack.

Tip #2

When you paint-only go one way.

If you go one way with the paint, and then go back over, going the other way, the paint will come off.

So, don’t do this.

Wait for the first coat to dry and then you can go back over it.

The first coat will more than likely, show brush strokes.

Don’t stress over this.

If you are going for that Shabby Chic look, when you sand your piece the brush strokes will blend together and help "shabby" the piece up.

Tip #3

If you want a more solid coverage, you can accomplish this with 2 different techniques.

You can paint 2 coats.

(I know, your thinking DUH Tausha)

You will want to make sure that your first coat is dry before adding the second.

Or, if you want to use 2 colors, you can paint a different color over the first color.

By doing a light sanding, the first color will pull the first color through beautifully.

Tip #4

If you want a more solid coverage, you will need to wait 24 hours for the paint to cure.

Once the paint has cured, then start distressing or sanding.

It's worth the wait..promise

Trust me on this.

You can also leave the lid off the ascp for a little bit and the paint will thicken.

You can achieve a more solid cover first coat if you do this.

Tip #5

Waxing!

There are a few brands of furniture wax on the market.

Annie Sloan has 2 colors. You can get a clear and a dark.

BUT, you can also make your own wax color by mixing a little bit of ASCP with some clear wax.

There are not any other wax’s on the market that can do this.

I know that some of you are wondering why you would need to wax?

Well,

Waxing will give you a smooth, professional look.

If you only remember ONE thing while you are waxing, remember this.

Thin will Win.

You will want to apply a thin coat of the wax with a brush, and then buff it off with a micro fiber rag.

Micro fiber rags really do work the best.

Think Sham Wow's from the Dollar Store.

You can put on a clear wax, buff and then add a dark wax

Or, you can just use the clear wax

The Nitty Gritty on Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

Price

The price of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is $38.95 a quart.

Now, don’t let the price throw you.

This quart of paint will last you a long time!

I have painted 10+ pieces of furniture and have barely made a dent in the paint.

This paint will last you longer than your average gallon of paint from the big box store.

The wax is $26.95 each.

The wax will last you forever! Well probably not F-orever, but a long time.

Remember, less is more when you use the wax.

Where do I get it?

There is one catch to this paint.

You can only purchase it from certified distributors.

Check your local area for a distributor near you.

But, if you are a Utah gal,we have one fabulous distributor!

(YEAH!)

Mindy Harrell of Faux Assured Studio in Park City. Mindy is fabulous to work with! You can call or check out her site for paint colors, tools and how to books.

Mindy and her fabulous staff are extremely knowledgeable and are happy to help you.

They will ship the paint to you, or you can pick it up at their studio in Park City.

The Faux Assured studio also offers a Annie Sloan how-to class once a month.

Check their website, Faux Merchant.com for information.

My overall grade for this paint is an A+! ASCP is very user friendly and the results are swoon worthy.

You can totally use this paint and be awesome at it.

I promise!

Remember, all this week I will have tutorials on how I used the paint & wax.

Happy Painting!
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