Holy Craft!

Taking a break...

2010-01-21T11:29:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has ordered things from Holy Craft! I've decided to take a break for a while to focus on my family and a few other things in my life. If you're looking for bows or custom blocks, I'm sure there are a few vendors at Etsy.com who would be more than happy to help you. Thanks again for your support!

Happy Birthday Stella!

2009-06-02T00:55:00.002-04:00

Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott's little beauty, Stella Doreen, is turning one next week! I sent these blocks for her birthday party. Tori loves pink and has decorated Stella's room all in bright pink, plus Stella's nickname is "Ladybug" or "Bug", so I thought a bright pink and green ladybug theme would be perfect! I hope you like them, little Stella Bug!

It's almost time...

2009-06-01T14:59:00.002-04:00

...to welcome Little Miss Addisyn into the world! What little lady wouldn't want to be welcomed by such an adorable display of her name?!

PixBlox!

2009-05-27T12:37:00.005-04:00

I included a Mother's Day message to my mom and mother-in-law on the bottom of their blocks. The block for the bridal shower featured some pieces from the bride's wedding invitation, truly personalizing it!

Just in time for Mother's Day and a bridal shower, I decided to take another stab at my PixBlox, but with larger (4") blocks this time. They were a big hit with my mom, mother-in-law and friend, Krista! I was irritated with myself for not taking pictures before I gave them away, but I snuck some pics of my mom's and mother-in-law's while visiting recently ;)
I think these blocks are a perfect Father's Day gift! I plan on making some more for my hubby, dad and father-in-law (shhh...don't tell!). If you'd like to order a PixBlox, email me up to 6 hi-res pictures (uncropped so that I can make a good 4 x 4 square out of them) and let me know what color you'd like the background to be. Then I'll work my block "magic" on them ;) sealing them for you. Makes a super cool alternative to a frame, a great paperweight, or a unique piece of "art" to put on your mantle! I think they'd even be an awesome going-away-gift for that high school grad heading off to college! See pricing to the right of this post.
**I use professionally developed photos**

Celebrity Tween Gift Suite A Sparkling Success!

2009-05-04T15:29:00.003-04:00

Here's a copy of the latest press release regarding the Baby & Tween Celebration LA--so cool! If you make/sell products for babies, children, expectant mothers, teens/tweens, you should definitely check out Baby Swags...and let Phyllis know I sent ya ;)

Baby Swags hosted it’s first celebrity tween/teen gift suite at the Baby & Tween Celebration LA expo that took place on April 25 & 26, 2009. The “Rockin Lollipop Lounge” was filled with some of the hottest tween and teen celebrities that appear on today’s hit television shows and movies.

Jennifer Stone with Tween Reporter, Christina

Each celebrity tween and teen received their very own, “Starlicious” gift bag filled with some of the hottest trends for tweens and teens. These products range from clothing to hair care products, and beyond. For a complete listing, see below.

The exclusive VIP gift bags that were presented to the tween/teen celebrities included the following products:

Just Be Products - Tees
Three Peas & Co - Petti Skirts
Creative Clips by Colleen - Hand-made Hair Clips
Holy Craft - Word Blocks
Rejoice! Home, Body & Spa - Body Scrub/Butter
Temptation of a Generation - Temptation Series books
Pink Pewter - Elegant Headbands
Doce Vida - Gift Certificate
Bendigirl Yoga - Yoga DVD
Boodlebags - Wristlets
Totally Texty - Hair Care Products
Blossom 4 Girls - Skin Care Products
Becky Bones - Shoes
Chic Buds - Ear buds

Ariel Winter and Jackson Brundage at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge

The celebrity tweens and teens were able to mingle with their tween fans while at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge, show off their goodies and it also allowed the tween attendees to see what are the hottest, newest Spring products on the market.

Ashley Argota from True Jackson VP at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge celebrity teen gift suite

Other celebrities that attended the event were Ashley Argota, Allisyn Ashley Arm, Chelsea Makela, Ariel Winter, Jennifer Stone, Aria Wallace, Sammi Hanratty, Savvy & Mandy, Justin Stein, Daechelle, The Stunners, Austin Anderson, Keli Price, Jackson Brundage, Adair Tishler, Rachel Sibner, Nicholas Braun, Nick Palatas, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle, Kaylee Dodson and many, many more.

Aria Wallace at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge hosted by Baby Swags

The Rockin Lollipop Lounge VIP gift suite was the hottest spot to be in if you were a tween or teen celebrity or if you just wanted to catch a glimpse of your favorite tween/teen idol.

Display Model SALE!

2009-05-02T22:55:00.003-04:00

A store that carried my blocks has closed down, so now I'm left with some inventory. Sooooo...I've decided to unload it at a great discount! All of the above shown 1.5" sets are now $12 (regularly $21) and all of the above shown 2" sets are now $15 (regularly $27). These ABC/XYZ sets make great birthday gifts or baby gifts (especially when you don't know the baby's name ahead of time)! Check here for more detailed individual pictures of the included sets.

Lollipops & Rainbows!

2009-05-01T14:36:00.003-04:00

Here is the set of blocks I made for the Lollipops & Rainbows Foundation launch party tomorrow. I sent these in addition to 150 gift certificates that will be included in the celebrity swag bags. Check out all the exciting details here!

2009-04-29T12:48:00.003-04:00

This weekend the Lollipops & Rainbows Foundation has its official launch at Universal Citywalk and guess who'll be included in the star-studded event's gift bags?? That's right, you guessed it--Holy Craft! While I don't have time to make the 150 sets of blocks they requested and get them to CA by noon on Friday (yep, that this Friday!), I will be including gift certificates. I can't believe how blessed I have been lately with these incredible opportunities! Check this out: Celebrities invited include The Cyrus Family, Dwayne "The ROCK" Johnson, The Jonas Brothers, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, David & Victoria Beckham, Ryan Sheckler, The Cast of "Twilight", and many surprise guests! {insert squeal of excitement here!} Anyway, just wanted to share my latest exciting venture with you all! Here's hoping and praying good things come from it!

Ordering Info

2009-04-27T00:25:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Holy Craft! I'm currently working on my website, but in the meantime, this blog showcases much of what I do. If you're interested in ordering blocks, click on the "blocks" link on the right. Same goes with any of my other products :) I love custom orders, so if you can think it, I'll do my best to create it! Feel free to contact me at holycraft33@gmail.com with any questions, comments, or to start a custom order. I can't wait to hear from you!

2009-04-26T00:40:00.002-04:00

(Second batch of blocks for the Baby & Tween Celebration L.A.)

Baby Booty!

2009-04-18T22:40:00.003-04:00

Just when I thought I was finished with the craziness of getting my Poetry and Text Blocks created and shipped for inclusion in the celeb gift bags at the Rockin' Lollipop Lounge, I got another great--albeit slightly insane--opportunity for exposure. I'm in the process of making 100 sets of these blocks to be included in the Baby Booty Bags at the Baby & Tween Celebration L.A. These bags will go to the first 100 moms in the doors both Saturday and Sunday of the Expo. I'm thrilled to be included! I just found out about the bags on Tuesday and the BTCLA starts a week from today, so I'm screamin' busy trying to get them all done. Luckily I'm blessed with a great husband and good friends who will help me work to get them finished in time! Now, pray with me that all this exposure is worth the time, effort and money that I've put into these cute little sets. I know, if nothing else, I've learned so much about "mass" producing my blocks. A baptism by fire of sorts :) All this block making is a lot of work, but I'm having so much fun!

A little SWAG(ger) in my step

2009-04-13T00:07:00.004-04:00

I've been working my hiney off the last few weeks to get ready for some fabulous opportunities through Baby Swags. I tell ya, even though it's been a lot of work in a short amount of time, I'm so darn excited about the possibilites that these opportunities can offer!

Aren't these blocks adorable?! I love them and I hope that Sarah Shahi (of NBC's "Life" and "The L-Word". Husband is Steve Howey who played Van on the CW's "Reba") loves them for her little guy-on-the-way!
**"Wolf" is not the name Steve & Sarah have chosen for their son. They have not endorsed these products.**

And now for the unveiling of my new tween/teen block lines... {drum roll please}

Poetry Blocks
and
Text Lingo Blocks
(names *definitely* open for discussion!)

My blocks will be included in celebrity gift bags at the "Baby & Tween Celebration LA" later this month. I'm super excited about this! Check out the link for more details.

Poetry Blocks - Remember magnetic poetry? Those little tiny magnets with word on them and you could arrange them into crazy, nonsensical sentences? Well, that's the basic idea with Poetry blocks! With a roll of the blocks you can make all kinds of fun and silly sentences. Let everybody know, with a glance at your blocks, just what you're thinking at the moment. Or just get goofy with them!
*Each set includes a pronoun block (my/your/his/her/their/our), adjective block (crazy/sexy/tight/nasty/hot/flippin'), noun block (car/life/friend/poo/pic/junk) and verb block (rocks/rules/jams/sucks/stinks/blows).

Text Lingo Blocks - These blocks feature 24 of the hottest text acronyms out there! Not sure how to answer the ridiculous question your BFF just txt'd u? Give the blocks a roll to get the answer. Who cares if it doesn't make total sense, right?? ;)

The next celebrity gifting I'll be working on is for Ryan & Trista Sutter's (The Bachelor and The Bachelorette) new baby girl. I'm going to be making a set of blocks for little Blakesley and also for their 21-month-old son, Max. Can I say one more time that I'm excited?! :D

New idea!

2009-04-01T00:36:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited about this new idea. Kyle and I were brainstorming tonight about a product that I could make for teen/tween boys and we came up with something that I think will be great and SO FUN! I'm not going to give details quite yet, but hopefully soon :) Stay tuned...

Matchy-Match

2009-03-11T00:21:00.003-04:00

As we prepared for our family vacation to Palm Springs, I got a little carried away with the "details" of Ashlyn's outfits :) It all started with the bathing suits because, you know, all little girls wear bows while they're swimming, right?! Ha ha! After making the bows to match her swimsuits, I decided to make some for a few of her other shirts/outfits. So much fun!

Does your little girl have an outfit you'd like to have a matching bow made for? I'd love to do it for you--just send a picture and I'll do my best!

Every year when we go to Palm Springs and/or when my almost-4-year-old cousin, Lisa, and almost-3-year-old cousin, Nathan, come to MI to visit, we get the kids (Lisa/Ashlyn, Maguire/Nathan) matching suits. To make it even more fun for the girls I made them matching bows. Sorry boys, no bows for you!

Interchangeable Headbands

2009-03-11T00:02:00.004-04:00

I've had a few requests for headbands, so here are a few. The top one is just a crochet-style headband I picked up at Meijer (or Wal-Mart, Target, etc.). Any of my bows can slide into the holes for a cute and versatile look.

These next headbands are ones that I've made. They're also interchangeable with any of my bows. So simple to change up the look! The headbands will fit girls from newborn to toddler...and often older!

Calling all bow girls!

2009-02-17T10:39:00.005-05:00

As suggested by my "marketing director" (and former college roommate), Courtney, I'd love to get pictures of YOUR girl(s) wearing my bows! I think this will be a great addition to my booth display and will show how the bows work/look in varrying amounts of hair--from fuzz to long luxurious locks. So, if you have pictures of your little girl--or could take some--and could email them to me at holycraft33@gmail.com, that would be fabulous! Plus, I just love seeing pics of your little cuties :)
**The pictures can be head on or from the side, as long as they show the bow off pretty well.**

Biting the bullet!

2009-02-15T18:36:00.004-05:00

I've decided that 2009 will be the year that I do at least one craft show. I'm excited and a bit nervous about this decision. Mostly I was excited until I got the application for my first show. They require a picture of my "booth" since it's a "juried" show. Trying to figure out my booth setup is, quite frankly, stressing me out! Here's what I've got so far...not too exciting. I'm not totally sure that I'll stick with the cardstock idea. And obviously I haven't filled in all the table space (don't worry, I've got PLENTY more bows to fill in the empty space!), but I need to add some more interest to my display. Do you have ideas for me? I'd love to hear them!

Are you sick of hearing about this yet? DO something!

2009-01-28T13:13:00.002-05:00

As parents and/or concerned citizens, I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys?

The answer: They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA?

No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html

Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.

Have you sent your comments regarding component testing to the CPSC yet? The American Apparel and Footwear Association has made it easy for you to submit this important information with pre-written text that can be sent directly to the CPSC with the click of a button. You can of course edit the text if you have the time. Visit this page today, before it's too late. http://capwiz.com/americanapparel/issues/alert/?alertid=12525486 Your comments could make a huge difference, saving the livelihood of many thousands of Americans. Pass it on!

Bows, bows and more BOWS!

2009-01-25T14:42:00.004-05:00

I'm quite obsessed these days with making bows! It's just soothing for me to sit with my glue gun and ribbon, curled up with my blanket (yes, the nasty torn up one I've had since I was a little girl!) and a good show (preferably recorded on my DVR). {sigh of contentment}

Local article about the CPSIA

2009-01-25T14:31:00.003-05:00

Here's a local article on the new CPSIA craziness: SAVE HANDMADE! My emailed comments to the author are posted at the bottom of the article, second one down. Check it out, comment here or there and take whatever action you can! Thanks!!

What's up with the CPSIA??

2009-01-12T16:02:00.003-05:00

As a "small business owner", I've recently been made aware of this crazy (in my opinion) new law about to be enacted that could make it illegal to sell anything handmade that is related to children. So...there goes any of my hair bows, baby blocks, bibs, etc. PLEASE help me fight this law by contacting your senator and/or congressman/woman and letting them know that this law--while well-intentioned is not at all well thought out and will put many small businesses out of business. Is this what our economy needs??

Here is some info (much better worded than anything I can come up with!) I came across on another blog, Rocks In My Dryer.

The Scoop on CPSIA

Like many of you, I'm a big fan of supporting creative small business owners, such as those found on Etsy and elsewhere on the web. The "cottage industry" environment fostered by the web inspires me, especially as I see creative women (many of them moms) making brilliant, artistic items in their home, and giving me--the consumer--a chance to buy something special and handmade.

So it's been with increasing alarm that I've followed the story around CPSIA. (Never heard of it? Bear with me just a minute.) This is a law that goes into effect in only a few short weeks, and it has the potential to greatly inhibit the productivity of crafty small business owners that make products for children.

I do not own a business making children's items, so my knowledge on the subject has been fairly limited. But I wanted to understand it better--and to be able to tell you about it--so I decided to ask for some help. My real-life friend Heather is the owner of Blessed Nest, a small but growing company that makes organic nursing pillows. This law has thrust Heather into the position of reluctant activist, as she's had to discern what this law means for her company (newspaper columnist Susanne Tobias even interviewed Heather on the subject here).

Thankfully, Heather agreed to sit down and answer a few questions, and you may be surprised to learn just how far-reaching this new law is. Heather's answers to my questions are in italics, below:

What exactly is CPSIA?

CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The way it was summarized for the U.S. Senate vote was: “A bill to establish consumer product safety standards and other safety requirements for children's products and to reauthorize and modernize the Consumer Product Safety Commission.”

Terrific, it’s about time, read no further… right? Well, it’s sort of their jobs to read the whole thing and think about it before they “yea” or “nay”. See how your favorite Senator voted here and Congressman/woman here.

How will it affect Etsy shop owners and other small crafty businesses?

According to the actual scope and wording of this bill (H.R.4040), as of Feb. 10, 2009, all products made and/or marketed to children under the age of 12 will have to comply with mandatory lead and phthalates testing for each component of each product they sell or face felony charges and hefty fines. Tests have to be conducted by labs that have been approved by the Commission, and range in price from several hundred to several thousand dollars. (For one small business’s estimate based on actual quotes from approved labs, see Happy Panda’s blog). Even if you use the same materials for the 30 different things that you sell, every component of all 30 have to be individually tested, regardless of whether those materials have passed testing by other agencies or other manufacturers. For example, we use Harmony Art fabrics, which conform to the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) . Even if we had them tested by the lower standards of the CPSIA for our pillows, a mom who sells hand-made slings out of the very same fabrics would have to have her products tested as well.

In a nutshell, if you knit booties (or sew burp cloths, or make bibs, or create hair bows) and sell them on Etsy (or at your church craft fair or to your neighbor down the street) you will be required to have each size and style of each item you sell tested, even if they are made from the same material. Let's say, for example, you knit booties and sell them. Even though yarn is not known to inherently contain lead or phthalates, and even if your yarn has been certified organic by GOTS standards, which exceed CPSIA standards by more than 300%, your yarn would have to be tested. And if you opt to have the testing done, next time you get the same yarn from the same manufacturer in a different dye lot, everything has to be re-tested.

There are some less expensive tests available through “unapproved” sources, but they will only be good until August, 2009. So, it either means that if you sell without certification you are breaking the law or that you better have a rich uncle.

Will any other businesses be affected? What about consignment stores and/or eBay?

The law applies to all products, even used items. This means that unless the stores (including eBay sellers and private parties) do the testing themselves, on Feb. 11 all of those products are to be treated as hazardous waste and destroyed. In a vague memo issued this week by the CPSA “resellers” may be excluded from certification, but these proposals also say that businesses owners will still face the same penalties if an item they sold ends up containing lead. It not only omits a specific definition of what a “reseller” is, it also fails to explain whether it applies to their entire inventory or just used items. So it exposes the store owner to the risk of either being shut down because of an item that may or may not have actually been purchased from them, but also to the nuts that could sue them if they claimed they were injured by the product. (Ouch, McDonald’s… I spilled my coffee!) It also is a very effective tool for competitors to use against businesses who they know can’t comply, a practice that has already been used by some of the big guys.

Something else to consider is that Canada is apparently watching to see what happens with this legislation, as they structure their own policies for safety standards. Many other countries could follow suit, making handmade children’s products a thing of the past, globally!

How will it affect consumers?

If the only products on the market are those made by companies who can afford to comply with the CPSIA rules (especially on such short notice), consumers will have very few options. Taking away handmade and even used items will create a market that is little more than mass-produced, mostly foreign-made children’s products. It also sets a precedent which allows one government agency to determine what is in the best interest of “public safety”, without having to take other factors into account.

One other big issue is that the jury is still out whether books, including text books and library books will be exempt. If the law isn’t changed, libraries will have two options: “Either they take all the children’s books off the shelves, or they ban children from the library.” (according to Emily Sheketoff, associate executive director of the American Library Association.

To play devil’s advocate for a minute, I suspect that advocates of this law support it in the interest of keeping kids safe. What’s your response to that?

The irony is that most of the people who will be hurt by this are those of us who have been trying to get the government to pass safety laws all along. We all want our kids to be safe, and in fact many of our businesses were started as a way of being proactive in providing safe alternatives to the mass-produced, unregulated products on the market now. I doubt that many people want this law to be vetoed altogether, just for it to be reasonable. We want it to focus on areas where it will do the most good without forcing everyone else to break the law or live in fear of being shut down and hauled off to prison. There are many intelligent recommendations that have been made that would not only protect children but also would allow small businesses to operate and let parents make informed choices for what they buy.

Is it inevitable? Can something be changed? If so, what?

Well, not to sound too dramatic… but I believe that inevitability is the enemy of liberty. Without going into too much detail here (feel free to read my soapbox letter here), I think that this is much deeper than whether I can call my pillows “nursing pillows” or not. Fortunately, this is still America, and our voices do matter. This bill was pushed through under the radar at an unusually fast pace, but our representatives are still responsible for representing us. You can join the efforts of the Handmade Toy Alliance here, sign a petition here, and vote to bring this issue before the President-Elect on Inauguration Day here.

Once you get into this it can become very emotional, confusing and overwhelming, especially if you are a small business trying to make ends meet (insert raised hand here). We have made a page on our blog where we are trying to stream-line the most up-to-date information, links, articles and support that we find. We’re also looking into the technology to put a hug on it, but that could be years off and would be regulated anyway. In the meantime, at least we know we’re all in it together!

I expect that many of you are very knowledgeable about this issue as well. If you know of additional resources, please leave them in the comments section below. In addition to contacting your congressional representatives, you might consider alerting local, state or even national media to this story that will affect so many hard-working women.

2009-01-04T22:40:00.003-05:00

Just taking an inventory of what bows I've got on hand. If you'd like to order, please use the letter/number combo (A3, for example) when you contact me. If you'd like to see more detail, click on the pictures to enlarge them. Most bows can be recreated if you'd like more than one. I also love custom orders!

Large Flowers
(alligator clips)
*use AB1, AB3, AB5
CD1, E1, D3, D5 to order

Mini-bows and Snappie clips
(A1-C5 are alligator clips, D1-E5 +2 at the bottom are snappie clips)

Baby Baldies
(1" snappie clips)

Boutique bows and Flower clips
(all on alligator clips)

Baby Baldy Snappie Clips

2008-11-07T01:53:00.003-05:00

Here's my latest batch of Baby Baldy Snappies. I've been having a lot of fun creating these little cuties for my friends who are having baby girls. The clips are 1" long and they are perfect for the tiny bit of fuzz that most newborns are born with. They're super grippy and won't slide out easily at all. I wish I had thought of them when Ashlyn was born! She had quite a bit of hair and these would've been darling on her :)
I've been slacking big time on listing things in my Etsy store. If you see anything here on the blog that you'd like to order but don't see a listing in my store, email me, leave me a comment of convo me (through etsy) to let me know. I'd be more than happy to work on whatever you'd like! Colors, patterns, themes...you name it and I'll do my best to make it work. Make sure your little girl has the right hair accessories for all the holiday parties and events coming up!

Halloween and Harvest Blocks!

2008-10-16T23:54:00.003-04:00

I absolutely love fall! I love the changing leaves, the falling leaves, seeing the joy on my kids' faces as they play in the leaves, the cool-not-cold weather, football, cute halloween costumes, fall colors, fall spices, pumpkins, gourds, hayrides, apples...the list really could go on and on! Here are two sets of festive blocks, just for this fabulous season!

BOO Blocks

Harvest Polka Dot Blocks

"Go Kye" is live!

2008-09-29T00:21:00.003-04:00

After putting a lot of time, effort, work, heart into getting Go Kye set up, Holly is ready for it to go live! Check it out--the site looks fabulous! Now that it's all done, I'm feeling quite intimidated by the rest of the talent represented there :) What an honor to be included!!

Autumn Blossoms!

2008-09-17T22:25:00.004-04:00

Tell me these flower hair bows are not gorgeous! Ok, don't actually tell me that... ;) Autumn is by far my favorite season of the year, so creating these hair blossoms in beautiful fall colors is so fun for me! The only thing more fun is to put them in Ashlyn's hair :)

Two of my favorites. The colors are so rich!

Thank you!!

2008-09-10T00:10:00.002-04:00

Thank you so much for supporting me in the Etsy Handmade Kids Challenge! My blocks fell somewhere in the top half of the finalists (I think I was 15th out of 40--not bad!) but the first place item slaughtered the rest of us! Oh well...it was a huge honor to be chosen out of hundreds for the top 40!

Go Kye!

2008-09-10T00:01:00.003-04:00

I was recently approached by Holly, a sweet fellow mom who has an online boutique for all baby things "modern.unique.functional". She asked if she could carry my blocks on her site. After working out the details, I'm proud and honored to report that Go Kye is carrying Holy Craft! blocks! If you're looking for anything for baby: clothing, shoes, diapering needs, bags, accessories, decorations, bedding, gifts, stationary, etc. please check out Go Kye. Holly is doing a fantastic job setting up this fabulous site! She's already got so many great things listed, but will be adding a ton more in the next few weeks!

Warmington Look-alike Meter

2008-09-08T21:12:00.001-04:00

Sorry! This was supposed to go on my personal family blog--oops! Oh well, don't feel like switching it now...

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebs - Collage - Morph

You have until Midnight on September 8!

2008-09-06T19:45:00.002-04:00

If you haven't yet voted in the Etsy Handmade Kids Challenge and would like to, you have until midnight (well, 11:59pm to be exact) on Monday September 8! Here's the link again: Etsy Handmade Kids Challenge VOTE My "Sola" blocks made it into the top 40 finalists in the Kids Home Decor category! In addition to helping me, by voting you're giving yourself a chance to win one of 14 $350 Etsy shopping sprees! What I wouldn't give for one of those... :) Thank you all for your support and encouragement as I continue on with my crafty endeavors!

In love with Amy Butler!

2008-08-28T15:32:00.004-04:00

I am into all things Amy Butler these days. I "accidentally" (before I was aware of her design talent or who she is!) bought some Amy Butler paper a while back (see this post) and then, searched like crazy to find some more. Finally I found the very last Amy Butler paper pack at Michael's! WooHoo! Here is my latest set of blocks...using Amy Butler's Lotus Tea Box paper. Check out her gorgeous fabric patterns here.

Don't these blocks just cheer you up?! :D

A great new idea!

2008-08-28T14:50:00.004-04:00

Recently I had a custom order for some blocks for a baby shower. The coolest thing was the the customer wanted to use them as decoration on the cake! She had me send them directly to the cake maker. What a fun idea! Thanks, Christina, for your creative idea and for sending me some pictures from the shower!!

Didn't this cake turn out just darling?!

I'm A Finalist!!!

2008-08-25T23:00:00.006-04:00

I'm so excited and incredibly honored! Etsy is hosting a Handmade Kids challenge/contest with seven categories. I entered this set of blocks into the Kids Home Decor category and then sort of forgot about it. They've just announced the 40 finalists for each category and my FAM friend Melanie was sweet enough to let me know that I am a finalist! I'm still in a bit of shock that my blocks were chosen. So, for the next 2 weeks, registered Etsy members can vote once in each of the seven categories. I would LOVE your votes! If you're not a registered member, you can easily register for free at etsy.com. Here is the link for my category: http://www.etsy.com/voter_list.php?room_id=16
The winners in each category win a $200 etsy shopping spree and everyone who votes in the contest is entered to win one of 14 $350 etsy shopping sprees! Great prizes to be sure!

Covered Button Crazy!

2008-08-21T12:42:00.004-04:00

Set of 3 (1-1/8") magnets

Sock Monkey snappie clip!

Set of 4 mini (5/8") Halloween thumbtacks

Cute as a button ;) cupcake earrings (5/8")

Turquoise and chocolate earrings (5/8")

I just love making things out of fabric covered buttons. They're so fun to make and just so darn cute when they're finished! I'm listing a bunch of new things in my Etsy store, so check them out!

So I'm a little contest-happy!

2008-08-05T09:41:00.004-04:00

Yep, another giveaway! This time it's through another great blog: The Giveaway. Check it out for my giveaway and a bunch of other great ones! My giveaway is very similar to the one I just did--set of 3 small blocks (your choice). It ends August 11 so hurry on over and enter away! (comments posted here on my blog will not be counted--only entries HERE will count for the giveaway)

We have a WINNER!!!

2008-08-02T00:16:00.003-04:00

Wow...I'm so excited about the response to this giveaway! I had over 140 entries and I've enjoyed reading every single comment. Thank you for all who entered! I know, I know...blah, blah, blah... Who won?! I used RANDOM.ORG to randomly choose a number between 1 and 142 (the number of comments). Here's the result:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2008-08-02 00:06:49 EST

So the winner is...RICHELLE!
Richelle said...

"Love all the little bows. The blocks are so cute, too. I like the chocolate sky ones."

Congratulations, Richelle! Contact me and I'll get started on your set of 3 small blocks.

Thanks to everyone who entered. I had fun and look forward to doing another giveaway!

Two hours left!

2008-08-01T22:01:00.002-04:00

The response to my giveaway has been overwhelming! If you want to enter, you've got TWO more hours! I can't wait to see who the winner is!

The Children of Troy VanderStelt Benefit Hockey game & Silent Auction

2008-07-27T23:20:00.004-04:00

Earlier this month a longtime family friend of mine was brutally murdered. He left behind a beautiful wife and 4 gorgeous kids, ages 1-1/2, 2-1/2, 14 and 16. You can read the story here. This Tuesday night, there will be a benefit hockey game and silent auction. I am honored to donate some of my items for the silent auction.

3 Custom burp cloths, a "squash" album, a set of Amy Butler "Sola" blocks, and 2 Baby-Baldy hair clips.

3 Custom burp cloths, a "squash" album, and a set of sports-themed blocks

There will be another silent auction held in a few months. I've had a few Etsy friends express interest in donating items for this next silent auction. What amazing generosity! They've never met ME, much less Troy or his family! I'm humbled by the outpouring of love. If you have an interest in donating items, please contact me at holycraft33@gmail.com. Thank you so much!

Another Contest!

2008-07-26T00:50:00.006-04:00

********************CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED********************

This contest will be a short one and it's in conjunction with BloggyGiveaways.com . So what am I giving away? Well...BLOCKS! Check out a bunch of the different sets I've made. This giveaway is for a custom set of 3 small blocks. YOU choose the colors/theme and YOU choose the letters! Check out my previous blog posts for more details on the block sets. All materials used are non-toxic, so while the blocks are mainly meant for decoration, your kiddos can play with them with no worries! All you have to do is go to my Etsy shop, pick your favorite item and leave a comment on this post (I changed this after the first three comments, but they're still ok). At midnight on August 1 (or the morning of August 2 if I can't stay up that late!) I'll be randomly choosing the winner. Want to enter more giveaways? Click on the pink button on the right for a BIG FAT list of fabulous giveaways! Happy entering :)

Blocks with Amy Butler's Sola

2008-07-24T00:40:00.004-04:00

I just adore Amy Butler's fabric lines, so I was thrilled to find her "Sola" line of paper! And with her paper, these blocks turned out just as adorable as I'd hoped they would :)

New ones

2008-07-21T01:47:00.005-04:00

My sister-in-law ordered this green/brown set to give as a gift to a friend of hers. If you like it, let me know and I will custom make a set for you.

These three sets are not finished yet--they're waiting to be purchased and waiting for letter choices. Check them out in my Etsy store (link on right)!

Chocolate Covered Cherry

Chocolate Sky

Harvest Polka Dot

Introducing PHOTO BLOCKS!!

2008-07-13T17:02:00.004-04:00

I'm so excited about this addition to my line of blocks! Customers can email pictures to me and I'll put them on one side of each block. I can add names/words/initials to the opposite sides as well.

I apologize, the pictures on the blocks have photographed with a bit of a glare. Note the artistic "brushstroke" look to the pictures. Very unique!
I can do any color/pattern combo--just like my regular blocks sets--with the photo blocks. Just contact me your thoughts and ideas and I'll get started on YOUR custom set!

Some bibs and blocks

2008-07-13T16:28:00.006-04:00

Here are some custom orders I just finished. I love doing custom orders!

A bib and block set makes a darling little gift set!

I think it's time...

2008-07-08T00:49:00.003-04:00

...I post something that I've actually made :) Sorry about all the giveaway posts, but I just adore those items and would love to win them! Last night I made two new sets of bows--let me know what you think!

Ice Cream Social Frock Giveaway!!!!

2008-07-04T15:15:00.000-04:00

Ice Cream Social Frock Giveaway!!!!

Ok...if you want to see this item you'll have to go to the site :) It's SO STINKIN' CUTE that I want as few other entries as possible because I HAVE to have it!!

Strawberry Quart Caplet with Simple Sailing Frock

2008-07-02T14:35:00.001-04:00

Strawberry Quart Caplet with Simple Sailing Frock

Not my items, but I just had to post about these way-too-cute giveaways!

Roosters-N-Rickrack Pinafore GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-07-02T14:27:00.002-04:00

Roosters-N-Rickrack Pinafore GIVEAWAY!!!!

Check out this darling blog and fabulout giveaway!

BLOCKhead!

2008-06-27T23:35:00.005-04:00

I've been spending much of my free time lately making sets of blocks. My dear friend Angie put me in contact with Terri at The Lucky Ladybug, a great children's consignment shop in Muskegon. She really liked my blocks so I made 10 sets for the store plus a custom set for her. I'm having a lot of fun coming up with new color combos and themes. I'm now working on Mickey Mouse sets and Disney Princess sets. We'll see how they turn out! Here's the Flickr link for the sets I worked on: http://www.flickr.com/photos/41476204@N00/sets/72157605568465897/

Let me know what you think! And, of course, if you'd like to order a set, email me and let me know what colors/theme/letters you'd like and I'll get to work on it!

Another blog feature!

2008-06-18T18:57:00.002-04:00

I'm being featured on another really cool blog: Tip Junkie! Check it out and maybe even leave a comment :) Thanks for your support!

New Logos!

2008-06-14T01:23:00.003-04:00

I recently contacted Jenny of Pink Armchair Designs to have her come up with a logo for me. I'm excited to reveal two! Leave me a comment and let me know which one you like better. I know they're similar, but that's why I had a tough time choosing! Jenny is a sweet girl, easy to work with and has amazing designs! She does custom blogs, logos and other designs for great prices. You should definitely check her out!

Ripples in the Water

2008-06-13T11:39:00.001-04:00

I'm featured on this blog today! Check it out :) http://etherealrhapsody.blogspot.com/

New blocks, new fabric, and new snappies, oh my!

2008-06-11T12:21:00.006-04:00

I haven't been so great at keeping my blog updated with my projects lately because I'm too busy listing them on Etsy :) I got a few new fabrics the other day to add to my stash for custom albums or whatever. So much fun to look at fabric! I got some funky zebra print to make a pillow case dress for Ashlyn. Can't wait until I really have time to work on it! Check out the new fabrics in my flickr album.

I also finally got around to working on another set of my custom baby blocks. These turned out so cute! I plan to send them (along with a smaller set) to Baby Swags. I was recently contacted by Baby Swags and they're interested in possibly including my blocks in celebrity mom gift bags! I just have to submit an actual sample for final approval.

I've also been working on some more snappie clips. The Baby-Baldy clips are perfect for newborns and have been hot sellers! I made up a few "starter sets" and listed them on Etsy. If you're interested in purchasing any of these sets, click on my Etsy store on the right side of the page!

Check out my Etsy store

2008-06-04T10:59:00.003-04:00

I've been busy making new bows/snappies! I'm in the process of listing them in my Etsy store. You can click on my Etsy mini store on the right side of the page here. While you're there, check out some of the other fabulous artisans there! Such talent!

And the winner is...

2008-06-01T02:25:00.002-04:00

Steph Jones! Congratulations! Go ahead and pick two bows--nothing is excluded--and let me know your choices along with your address. I'll send them out Monday or Tuesday.

How I picked: I entered all the names in the order received into a list randomizer on random.org, hit the button and voila!

List Randomizer

There were 20 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

19. Steph J.
10. Kristin
16. Amanda
3. Joanna
4. Lisa
12. Etherealrhapsody
5. Courtney
8. Amy S.
9. Heather F.
20. Betsy
7. Kandace
6. Bree (Buhtafly)
1. Kelly - Macaronieandglue
14. Angela
18. Charity
17. Jennifer L.
2. Jenny - Pink Armchair Designs
13. April
11. Tania
15. Jennie - Sosorosey

Timestamp: 2008-06-01 06:24:22 UTC

I don't know about you all, but I had fun with this! I think I'll do it again toward the end of June...so be watching ;) I'm wondering, though, if I should do different giveaways. Leave me a comment with your thoughts!

I apologize for my tardiness in choosing a winner, but my 16-month-old son was in the ER tonight, had to get a CT Scan and then was admitted. My husband, Kyle, is still at the hospital with Maguire now. It's been a long night! Not to worry too much, though. It seems as though everything is ok, he just has an infection that they're treating with antibiotics and will likely release him tomorrow--I hope and pray!

Again, congratulations Steph! Can't wait to see what you choose :)

Yay!

2008-05-31T17:07:00.002-04:00

I'm excited to see that there are 18 entries so far for the hair bow contest! I'm so bad at keeping secrets (good ones) and this feels like great secret! I just can't wait to pick the winner! Tonight at midnight (EST) I'll use random.org to pick the winner and then I'll post his/her name. Only about 7 more hours!

Custom-Made Squash Albums

2008-05-30T11:08:00.004-04:00

YOU choose the cover fabric and inside colors for a fabulous squash album! Each album measures approximately 5" x 5" and "explodes" open to reveal countless spaces to be filled with your pictures.

*Choose either one or two fabrics for the front and back covers. (see fabric choices at FLICKR) If you don't see a fabric choice you'd like, covers can also be done in paper and I have countless paper choices!
*Choose color of card stock for the inside of the album. I'll match the shade of your color choice to the fabric.
*Contact me with the number(s) your cover choice(s) and your color choice (any color) for the inside.
**Also tell me your ideas for the theme and any title, etc. you'd like on the cover. Through our conversations I'll do my best to make sure that I create what YOU want!

**All materials used are acid/lignin free!

PRICE: $10 for plain album (fabric cover, plain card stock insides)
PRICE: $18 for filled album (decorated fabric cover, decorated card stock insides)

CONTEST time!!

2008-05-29T00:32:00.005-04:00

Ok, here it is! You've been eying my hair bows but not sure if you want to try them yet. Well, here's your chance to WIN two FREE bows of your choice!! All you have to do to enter is leave a comment. Can't get much easier than that! This contest will run until midnight (EST) on Saturday. Then I will randomly draw the winner. Ready...set...comment!

Large Boutique Bows and Bow/Headband Sets

2008-05-23T09:58:00.004-04:00

Each of these bows is about 4" across and is on a partially lined alligator clip to allow you to slip the clip in close to the scalp. The bows that come with a headband are removable for versatility. The bow can be worn on the headband or alone. For babies with "barely-there" hair, a no-slip strip can be added to any bow for no additional charge!
Single bow price: $6.00
Bow/headband set price: $8.00

NEW--Referral Program!!

2008-05-22T20:45:00.003-04:00

To all my loyal customers: thank you!! And to show my appreciation I'm starting a referral program. For every person you refer who places an order you will receive a free bow of your choice or 10% off your order. Make sure your friend gives your name when they place an order.
Don't worry--if you haven't placed an order yet, you can still get in on the referral deal!

More bows and snappies!

2008-05-19T12:00:00.004-04:00

I went on a little bow-making tirade again last night and stayed up WAY too late! Fortunately Maguire slept in this morning until 9:30 :) Here are a few of my favorites and, as always, check out all of the bows/snappies in my photobucket album!
**When ordering, please use the "call numbers" that are the titles for each bow/snappie clip. Thanks!**

Baby Leggings Options

2008-05-17T00:26:00.004-04:00

Here are some more options for the baby leggings. Any of the legging can be made shorter, but cannot be made longer than the length listed.
SIZES
NB - Newborn (0-3 months) 7-9" long
Baby - 3-6 months 11-12" long
Baby Long - 6-18 months 13-14" long
Toddler - 18+ months 15-16" long

Row1ColumnA: Pretty Pink - size NB (8")
Row1ColumnB: Pink Snowflakes - size Toddler
Row1ColumnC: Black/Red/White Argyle - size Baby
Row1ColumnD: Spring Green Flowers - size NB (7")

Row2ColumnA: Green Camo - size NB (8") *actual color is more olive green than picture shows
Row2ColumnB: Blue/Green Camo - size NB (8") *actual color is more blue/green than picture shows
Row2ColumnC: Flower Love - size NB (7")
Row2ColumnD: Spring Stripes - size NB (9")

Row3ColumnA: Love & Kisses - size NB (7")
Row3ColumnB: Blue Flowers - size NB (8")
Row3ColumnC: Salmon Flowers - size NB (8")
Row3ColumnD: Aqua/Red Flowers - size NB (7")

Row4ColumnA-D: weird glitch (aka user error ;) ) that made the first row repeat :)

I'm always on the lookout for more options for the Baby, Baby Long and Toddler sizes!

Lavender and Pearl Crochet Baby Dress and Matching Bow Set

2008-05-16T09:35:00.004-04:00

The perfect spring/summer dress for your little girl (or a very special gift)! This hand crocheted size 6-12 months dress is very soft acrylic/nylon and machine washable/dryable. Woven around the waist is a chocolate brown satin ribbon. There are three "pearl" buttons on the right shoulder for ease of changing.
Size: 6-12 months
Length: 15" from shoulder to hem of skirt
Waist: 19" around
Price: $35 for dress and bow (picture to be added soon)

Faux Babylegs

2008-05-14T01:02:00.008-04:00

Black & Blue Argyle - size Baby Long

Maguire graciously agreed to be my model. I wasn't so sure what I thought of them for boys, but I think they're darn cute! Although, probably a lot cuter with a onesie, not showing his diaper :)

Pink Sparkles - size Toddler

Turquoise Sparkles - size Toddler
Black/Silver Sparkles - size Toddler
Christmas Sparkles - size Toddler

Here's my version of Babylegs - aren't they adorable?! I just wish I'd figured these out while my kids were babies. Oh well, they can still use them :) I'm anxious to try them out on Baby Maddy when she's here Thursday afternoon. I'll try to get a good picture of her modeling them to post.
**I'll DEFINITELY be adding to my inventory of these! I'll post pics when I finish more.**
PRICE: $8/pair

Wedding Mini Album

2008-05-08T21:37:00.004-04:00

What a sweet way to carry a few pictures from your special day! This album is ready and waiting for your pictures. Album measures approximately 4" x 3.25".
Price: $10

Flannel options for burp cloths

2008-05-08T15:45:00.006-04:00

I'll be on the lookout for more flannel for burp cloths, but here is what's available currently. I typically do two coordinating patterns for each cloth, but will also do the same on each side. A set of 4 cloths is $25. Personalization is $5 for the first cloth and $1 for each additional ($8 for all 4). Ribbon embellishment is an additional $2.

Light blue with blue, navy, brown, green polka dots

Aqua, brown, green hearts/flowers/swirls

Plain white and plain blue

Grey, blue, black, green stripe

Green, blue, orange palm trees

Brown, blue, green rick-rack/dots

Pink, white, green, black stripes

White with pink, green polka dots

Pink, grey, mulberry flowers

Blue clouds

White with black polka dots

Korkers!

2008-05-08T15:43:00.003-04:00

This smart and sassy korker hair bow will be the perfect addition to your little girl's outfit for any of the upcoming patriotic holidays! Clip is a partially lined alligator clip, perfect for sliding into a ponytail or holding back hair to the side. Measures approximately 3".

Hooded Towels

2008-05-08T15:40:00.002-04:00

This darling hooded towel is made from a full-sized, 100% cotton towel. This way you can maximize the use you get out of it--it'll work for toddlers, children and even teens (if they'll go for a hooded towel - hee hee)! The light blue towel is embellished with chocolate/white polka dots grosgrain ribbon. It can even be tied at the hood - like a cape - so it stays on. I can make this towel in just about any color/ribbon combo you'd like!
**Personalization is an additional $5

I've made the jump...

2008-05-08T15:32:00.003-04:00

...to Etsy! After enough people asking if I'm on Etsy, I decided to just do it. A lot of my bigger things (not a lot of bows) are listed there. If you're interested, check out my store. I'm working with Shauna (she does fabulous work!) on the appearance of my store and possibly re-vamping this blog a bit. Eventually I hope to have my own site up and running. I've purchased a domain, but I'm still S-L-O-W-L-Y developing the website. If you have any skills in website development, I'd love help!

Baby Bibs

2008-05-08T01:07:00.004-04:00

I love these super-cute bibs! My kids have a few that they've used since they started on solids (4-6 months). At 16 months and 3 years old, they still love to use them! Ashlyn routinely asks for her "Ashlyn ladybug bib" :)
Price: $15 (includes personalization)
*Styles available depends on current inventory

Contest!

2008-05-05T21:00:00.003-04:00

I'm contemplating a contest to give away some "Holy Crafts" :) To enter, all you'll have to do is leave a comment on the upcoming contest post. From there, the winner will be chosen randomly. In the meantime, leave me a comment letting me know what you'd like most to WIN! And keep checking back for the official contest post ;)

A few more...

2008-05-02T12:01:00.006-04:00

Once I got rolling on these things, it was hard to stop! Here are just a few of my favorites. As always, the rest are in my photobucket album.

This is the baldy-baby snappy clip. Each one measures 1" - 1.25" and is lined with velvet to really grab onto fine wisps of hair or even just peach fuzz.

* most Snappies measure approximately 1.5" - 1.75". Baldy-Baby Snappies are 1" - 1.25" and large Snappies are approximately 2".

Introducing Snappies!

2008-05-01T16:02:00.004-04:00

Snappy clips are great for just about any length of hair--even barely-there-hair!

2008-04-29T16:49:00.004-04:00

I'm so excited about these new monogram flower bows! When ordering, please indicate which side of the head you prefer to place the bow on. This one reads correctly when worn on the right side. (price: $5.00 each)

A few recent bows...others and more detailed pics of each individual bow are in my photo bucket album.

Crocheted Baby Dress and Bow Set

2008-04-29T02:00:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful dress to give as a gift or to put on your little sweetheart!
Size 0-3 months
Machine washable, lay flat to dry
Removable matching flower on front
Two buttons in back

Matching crocheted flower clip - full lined
No slip strip can be added, just let me know!

This set can be made in many other colors (just ask!) and in sizes 0-3 months, 3-6 months and 6-12 months.

Another Squash Album

2008-04-29T01:53:00.007-04:00

This album is a bit simpler than the previous squash album I posted (baby themed). The insides have been left plain to maximize room for pictures and the cover is fabric rather than paper. A simple, yet beautiful, way to show off your pictures! This style is $10. Can be decorated inside and out for an additional $8.

Custom "Vintage" Baby Blocks

2008-04-25T15:24:00.008-04:00

How darling are these blocks? I will custom make them with the colors and letters that you'd like. The girl set shown here is 1.5" blocks and the boy set is 2" blocks.

*Paint and other materials used are non-toxic. So, while the blocks are mainly meant for decoration, they're safe for your baby/toddler to play with as well!

Pink Flower Bows

2008-04-24T16:30:00.004-04:00

My latest installment of bows - pink (and peach) flowers! Love these :) The flowers are about 2-2.5" in diameter with a clear rhinestone "bling" in the center, attached to a partially-lined alligator clip. $4.50 each. (Also available in purples. Other colors available but not in stock are reds, blues, yellows, greens, autumn colors, neutral colors)

Monogrammed Napkins w/ Napkin Rings

2008-04-23T14:33:00.007-04:00

These monogrammed napkins make the perfect wedding/bridal shower gift or housewarming gift! 100% polyester restaurant quality napkins (**Basic Polyester linens are the true "work horses" of the hospitality industry. These permanent-pressed, soil-release fabrics are constructed for easy care and unbeatable durability**). Custom make them with any words/names you'd like! Rings can also be custom made with the color(s) of your choice. Set of 8 napkins with 8 napkin rings: $55

Boy gift ideas?

2008-04-21T01:49:00.002-04:00

The other day I had a friend ask me what my baby boy gift was... since I have the bows for girls. I'm still trying to come up with something cute and fun to do for boys. I've got a few ideas brewing, but nothing too solid yet. Anybody have any ideas that I can trial?? Any ideas I use will be good for a 10% discount :)

Ribbon Spree!

2008-04-16T12:34:00.003-04:00

Last night I went on a ribbon shopping spree! There are so many FUN ribbons out there that I ended up buying way more than I had intended to. Don't worry, I left a bunch at the store for another shopping trip :) Here are a few of the bows I made last night (because I just couldn't wait!). The rest are in my photobucket album.

More photos

2008-04-15T16:35:00.004-04:00

I've created Photobucket album to show my bows. If you see something you like, let me know! If you see something you "sorta" like, but would like better if it were a bit different, let me know that too--I'm happy to customize. More to come... :)

Pipecleaner FUN!

2008-04-15T16:10:00.004-04:00

Not sellable items, but my latest craftiness includes making these for Ashlyn. She loves playing with her pipe cleaner family! She also likes telling ME what to make for HER ;)

Paper Bag Gift Album

2008-04-13T23:27:00.005-04:00

This was one of the first paper bag gift albums I made, back in 11/05. These albums are great for keepsakes since you can slide memorabilia into the openings of the paper bags. I have so much fun making these cute little albums! I made a sweet one with pictures of my daughter for my husband's first Father's Day. He kept it sitting out in his office to show off :)

Crocheted hat and scarf

2008-04-13T00:45:00.005-04:00

I crocheted this hat and scarf set for a sweet friend of mine, Karen. She loves pink and pink/black are BuffMother colors :)

Altered Lunchbox with Mini Gift Album

2008-04-12T23:59:00.008-04:00

I made this "lunchbox" tin w/ mini album for a bridal shower gift for my dear friend Becki a couple years ago. She and her husband were having a tropical destination wedding so I went with that theme...plus I know Beck loves pink :) This gift was more fun for me to make, I'm sure, than it was for her to receive!

Not the best pictures, I know! This was before I got my "Big Girl" camera :)

Burpies

2008-04-12T23:41:00.006-04:00

I recently found a pattern for these adorable burp cloths and knew I had to make some for baby gifts. I'm still getting the hang of them, but I think they're just too cute! With one set I used some scraps to make a darling matching "ribbon" to tie them all together. I also monogrammed the baby's name on one of the burp cloths thanks to my mom's embroidering machine!

Bow-bows!

2008-04-12T23:31:00.004-04:00

My almost 3-year-old daughter has the longest, most beautiful hair with soft curls. I'm so jealous! Well, most of the time (because I was dumb last summer and cut bangs for her) it gets in her eyes/face. If it's not that, it's getting into her food and her mouth driving her and me crazy. Our solution is a "bow-bow" or a hair bow/clip. I purchased a few from a little children's boutique when she was 2 weeks old (she was born with lots of hair!) so that people would know she's a girl :) Upon further inspection I discovered that I could easily reproduce and even expand on these bows. Now, Ashlyn's "stash" is getting a bit out of control, but I just can't stop with these darling little clips! My niece, who's turning 5 tomorrow, asked for some for her birthday. So just tonight I made 8 bow-bows for her. Thanks for the excuse to make more, Eliani!

I use alligator type spring clips. Typically I don't fully line the clip (see bottom flower clip) because I've found that leaving the "point" of the clip exposed helps to slide the clip into the hair. Although, fully lining the clip does help give better grip to those sweeties with very little hair. I'm currently working on another way to make the clips even "grippier" for your precious "baldies" :) Fully-lined clips

Partially-lined clip

Here's a picture of my hours-old niece, Skydra, wearing one of my bows :)

Squash Album

2008-04-12T23:14:00.005-04:00

Last night my in-laws hosted a surprise shower for my husband's cousin and his fiance. They aren't going to find out the sex of the baby, so I made this neutral "squash album" for them. While I was pressed for time, I was still pretty happy with how it turned out. I'm not sure if I would've added more to it if I'd had the time or not. This style of album is also called an "explosion" album because it sort of explodes when you open it - lots of places to put pictures and/or journal your thoughts.

My "Dream Job"

2008-04-12T23:08:00.003-04:00

My husband and I were talking the other day about ways I could contribute to our family's bottom line. I stay at home with my two young kids (15 months and almost 3) and would love to contribute financially, if for no other reason than to support my crafting habit! My husband asked what my "dream job" would be and I knew right away that I would LOVE to be able to somehow make money with my homemade items. I'm creating this blog to highlight my projects and if someone happens to be interested in purchasing anything, YAY! If not, enjoy checking out what I'm up to :)