tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87271661458806557282024-02-19T05:02:10.273-05:00Nesting in the Bluegrasswith Gretchen BlackGretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-68582006629181364342016-06-14T12:55:00.002-04:002016-06-14T12:55:32.705-04:00Antiquing around LouisvilleOne of my favorite things about summer, is going to outdoor flea markets. Jason and I recently attended the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FleurDeFleaVintageUrbanMarkets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Fleur De Flea Vintage Urban Market</a> down on the Louisville Waterfront. It was filled with lots of great vendors, and we were able to score some great vintage pieces.<br />
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We actually purchased this gray dresser, and it's available at <a href="http://lulubelles.com/" target="_blank">Lulubelles </a>Boutique in Norton Commons. </div>
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Jason and I found this old set of plans from 1915. It was really neat to look through all the details that were incorporated on this English style home.<br />
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Loved this piece, and could see it being used in a mudroom, or a craft room.</div>
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I'm always looking for interesting architectural pieces to incorporate into our homes that we are building and designing together. These would be great to incorporate on the end of an island, or possibly make a kitchen table using these.</div>
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This color combination really spoke to me. I was super tempted to pick up both pieces.</div>
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I love this gold gilded vintage mirror. How great would it be over a buffet in a dining room? Or maybe a focal piece over your mantel?</div>
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This particular market also had a great selection of potted plants, and unique ways to display them.</div>
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Succulent plants are really on trend right now, and I love the way this particular artist displayed her potted plants.</div>
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Loved this brass horse hook. Such a fun unique piece, and also on trend, since it was vintage brass.</div>
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After all that antiquing we stopped at one of the food vendors and got a snack. We love <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SteelCityPopsLouisville/" target="_blank">Steel City</a> Pops, they are so refreshing and yummy.</div>
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It was a great morning to be down by the river. We saw some really cool stuff, met some really great people, and even caught a glimpse or the beautiful new bridge. It was nice to get out of our comfort zone and neighborhood, and explore other parts of our lovely city. The next Fleur De Flea Vintage Market is scheduled for July 2. I would highly recommend it. Two thumbs up from Jason and I.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-88272670620030564272016-05-26T13:38:00.000-04:002016-05-26T13:43:20.497-04:00Rug Options for your Home<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome back to another Inspired Home blogging series that my husband <a href="http://artisansignaturehomes.com/" target="_blank">Jason Black</a> and co-contributing to for <a href="http://www.wlky.com/" target="_blank">WLKY</a>. This week we took a little field trip to a local company called <a href="http://www.carpetspecialistsonline.com/" target="_blank">Carpet Specialists</a>. Jason and I have worked with this family owned business for over 10 years. They really have a great selection of carpets and area rugs. I love when I get to work on design projects with my husband, and this weeks adventure sent us on the hunt for some area rugs to use in a Homearama house that Jason is building and I'm designing. We love shopping and supporting local as much as we can. Here are a few of my favorites that Carpet Specialists has available to order. Keep in mind that all these rugs come in various sizes to meet the needs of your specific room. Here are just a few they have to offer, in a variety of colors.</div>
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Also, carpet runners are a big trend right now. They are a great way to spruce up your stairs, and add a little style to what can generally be a pretty bland area. Here are some great carpets that they have available at Carpet Specialists that can be made into carpet runners, or area rugs.</div>
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This greek key design is a fun mix of modern and traditional.</div>
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The next designs are a little more monotone, and would work well in a more softer and neutral pallet.</div>
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I also love the look of a grass cloth. It reminds me of the beach, one of our favorite places to travel to. We always include a little inspiration from the beach in all our designs.</div>
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Both of these are great neutrals, and would make great carpet runners, or area rugs.</div>
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I was drawn to this pattern because it reminds me of a pretty needlepoint pillow. </div>
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These are great soft options, that give a hint of color and pattern, without being too overwhelming.</div>
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This bold Ikat print is really fun! I can visualize this in a family room as a large area rug.</div>
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I'm also seeing the honeycomb pattern making a comeback in design. This is a beautiful area rug they have available in various sizes, and it's so soft.</div>
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Wanting to get a rug made for a nursery? I love this pink or gray option. You wouldn't have to be tied to a certain theme, and the rugs could work with many different looks for years to come.</div>
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Jason and I are both standing by some of our favorite pieces that they have to offer in area rugs.</div>
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Hopefully you see a rug design that catches your eye. I only barely touched on the selection they have to offer. They aren't called "carpet specialists" by coincidence {wink} If you stop by, ask for Suzann, she's always wonderful to work with. </div>
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Luckily our field trip was a success, and I was able to find a couple rugs for my Homearama House. You'll just have to wait until July to see which ones we selected. Homearama is July 16-31st and is located in <a href="http://nortoncommons.com/" target="_blank">Norton Commons</a>. Thanks for stopping by. And if you want to see more of our day to day design and building work you can follow me on instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gretchenblack/" target="_blank">here</a>, and Jason <a href="https://www.instagram.com/artisansignaturehomes/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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With grace & gumption,</div>
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Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-58726204257374599242016-05-12T18:18:00.002-04:002016-05-12T18:18:25.613-04:00What's Old Is New Again<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello there, avid home decorator, designer, DIYer, contractor extraordinaire. Welcome to our first blog post of Inspired Home with Jason and Gretchen. A new blog series we are writing for WLKY. We are a husband and wife team who build and design locally in the Louisville area. Both Bellarmine grads, and parents to three terrific sons, we have literally built a life that we both enjoy and love. Jason is a local registered homebuilder and co-owns <a href="http://www.artisansignaturehomes.com/" target="_blank">Artisan Signature Homes </a>with his business partner Jimmy King. I'm a small business owner that runs a local boutique in Norton Commons, called <a href="http://lulubelles.com/" target="_blank">Lulubelles</a>, with my cousin Natalie Gerlack. I also work as a freelance interior stylist. Jason and I have worked together on many houses over the years, including building six of our own personal homes we've designed together. We also love to travel throughout the South together, searching for that southern inspiration to bring back to our clients. With that experience comes lots of access to the latest and greatest in home design and building. So with our new blog series <b>The Inspired Home </b>we will be sharing with you design and building tips to help inspire you with your latest projects. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today's post is about brass. Yes, brass is back in a big way in home design. The finishes of brass have changed dramatically over the last several decades. I am finding that it's not that 80's brass, that appeared really yellow and shiny. In contrast it's a beautiful brass that has a brushed finished, and a really beautiful gold tone. The good news is, oil rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, and chrome are all still very much in style, it's just that brass has got a new look and an update. So don't feel like you have to go out and change all your fixtures and door knobs immediately, but I am going to give you some ideas on how to incorporate this beautiful finish into your home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let's start where it may be easiest to incorporate brass, home accessories. Here are a few items that I think you could easily add without spending a lot of time or money.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDp9X3mO_EIfvY4kOemLfVxI6xYYWI-8rQIcBgAabU5PoSJA9gyBCNqKuHyzHNGxVPJuv6M3ZRMWRG-OsKPWCC4I5sJLos-14XMZ8Wy60E8X2QlidIV3dyUd8uYEXSIIu-KzkvcgBfkE/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDp9X3mO_EIfvY4kOemLfVxI6xYYWI-8rQIcBgAabU5PoSJA9gyBCNqKuHyzHNGxVPJuv6M3ZRMWRG-OsKPWCC4I5sJLos-14XMZ8Wy60E8X2QlidIV3dyUd8uYEXSIIu-KzkvcgBfkE/s640/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="538" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Did you know that the pineapple symbolizes "welcome" in the south? So this pineapple tray serves as double duty, you can use it to introduce brass into your home, and also make your guest feel welcome. We actually have these available at our Lulubelles boutique located in Norton Commons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you love to go antiquing like I do? Or maybe you inherited an old set of brass candlesticks like these...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These would be great in a dining room, or fireplace mantel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I recently picked up these pineapple candlesticks at <a href="http://anthropologie.com/" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a>, and I have them sitting in our kitchen. Clearly I have a love for pineapples. :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynbWkpbUESePzCATyTuZdVIsPeBarJvMC8HvbJhGatkbmV2CEIrYJ6dPA8-gpK7VksD2NHKbMELeFujyebeGILxJLr_Hfl1qDYJrCBPegI8P4WczQxxWs156oN7Mf1U1MVRdLsklAySs/s1600/IMG_0723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynbWkpbUESePzCATyTuZdVIsPeBarJvMC8HvbJhGatkbmV2CEIrYJ6dPA8-gpK7VksD2NHKbMELeFujyebeGILxJLr_Hfl1qDYJrCBPegI8P4WczQxxWs156oN7Mf1U1MVRdLsklAySs/s640/IMG_0723.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> And I collected both of these brass pineapples while out antiquing. They are currently gracing our fireplace mantel, stacked on some vintage books. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tfFHVNI4913DXHWkY1y6XxUHi3NcJBHswpEwptVmb79hQ3c782RAQiXIRmFQ_4k7Sg3UHxQh9NSQ2Z3IJ8lLXvL2aJKsP2_wwL0N485TDJ9ZKkG0JI1692m5b_KQPdDBV6bndpWpjF8/s1600/IMG_0698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tfFHVNI4913DXHWkY1y6XxUHi3NcJBHswpEwptVmb79hQ3c782RAQiXIRmFQ_4k7Sg3UHxQh9NSQ2Z3IJ8lLXvL2aJKsP2_wwL0N485TDJ9ZKkG0JI1692m5b_KQPdDBV6bndpWpjF8/s640/IMG_0698.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So maybe you are looking to update the handles in your kitchen. You have two options, you can either replace them with new hardware, note to self, make sure you measure your current hardware to be sure you get new hardware that matches the drilled holes exactly. Or you can use spray paint to recoat your existing hardware. There are some really great finishes in brass tones at your local craft stores. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is the brass hardware we have in our kitchen, and I love that it's a classic style and shape, with the timeless brass feel. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpwURhFu8XCjs2VaqQBiCVVJ6Ui-ADziaZh4UeBXeUUYN_6LoG58ogAnGARV7TIQdv6jnJsy3MtV8Kd9m_xYCAsahTFEQNwWnhxd5gbABJcnZiwFJPOWSWgqki-df8Cdqcg3s_t5jqfI/s1600/IMG_0700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpwURhFu8XCjs2VaqQBiCVVJ6Ui-ADziaZh4UeBXeUUYN_6LoG58ogAnGARV7TIQdv6jnJsy3MtV8Kd9m_xYCAsahTFEQNwWnhxd5gbABJcnZiwFJPOWSWgqki-df8Cdqcg3s_t5jqfI/s640/IMG_0700.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHjLjjMr3jyHQIiCGXSmbZibE_FyTkSGWmKcFbB6Fbvpty43SYlmcs-6iJn2xYzMdh-n4U2wW3qdVqMAsXknqjuCL3MrnOtZjmxn3wgmHVwsfP41TraBM77kh_GXvbvXYzo3UWtD9LEs/s1600/IMG_0701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheHjLjjMr3jyHQIiCGXSmbZibE_FyTkSGWmKcFbB6Fbvpty43SYlmcs-6iJn2xYzMdh-n4U2wW3qdVqMAsXknqjuCL3MrnOtZjmxn3wgmHVwsfP41TraBM77kh_GXvbvXYzo3UWtD9LEs/s640/IMG_0701.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have seen very similar looks and finishes to these in the special order section at Lowes and Home Depot, so check with your local hardware store if you are up for the investment of switching out your cabinet hardware. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another great way to introduce brass into your home is by installing new light fixtures, or repainting existing ones. Many times over the years I have ordered a light fixture and not loved the finish. So I grab my sponge brush and change the finish with some craft paint in a color that I feel suits the space better. Don't be afraid to give it a try. When all else fails, and the budget allows, you can update with new light fixtures. We have a selection of pretty brass fixtures, like this one at Lulubelles.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk1vdvecQUCKni2E8DiCz5kERG7rNk8KLoJ4-_vHGDg_uXEURI2JxU9L5h6dxiiA_2nCog7Jac2vpFaIw4Z0s_reqshEks6am8pG7wIRDLSwMbnR3wPZbrzXNp-8B3Yj5m4oghfVF1EeU/s1600/IMG_0681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk1vdvecQUCKni2E8DiCz5kERG7rNk8KLoJ4-_vHGDg_uXEURI2JxU9L5h6dxiiA_2nCog7Jac2vpFaIw4Z0s_reqshEks6am8pG7wIRDLSwMbnR3wPZbrzXNp-8B3Yj5m4oghfVF1EeU/s640/IMG_0681.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bathrooms are an elegant way to bring brass into your home. Maybe start with updating a powder room? You can find this pretty toilet paper holder at Anthropologie.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbcVgO-vLPOEPL252zFfQsfNWLWLxyjadGM3gvY5eI27s9hrNvxE3efxcKXvSpbkto0gktji8_51FmF32e87dhCAs2vsVyh_z1gb94kiOkPNVdzBTKGcYPb4GByTWOPdfhtEbQ5diY2E/s1600/IMG_0704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbcVgO-vLPOEPL252zFfQsfNWLWLxyjadGM3gvY5eI27s9hrNvxE3efxcKXvSpbkto0gktji8_51FmF32e87dhCAs2vsVyh_z1gb94kiOkPNVdzBTKGcYPb4GByTWOPdfhtEbQ5diY2E/s640/IMG_0704.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> There are lots of great options for brass fixtures. Places that we use locally for homes that Jason and I are building/designing together are Winnelson and Willis Klein. Both places have a lot of beautiful options.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4t3TuIn8qxdgVQyjgFjfSJAXdCHtdDCazzqCHL8u-czdLvOS40FiNQNJzBQtg9JB7_BWO5UBmeI-kbnQ8KTyd4nD6wSROn57V31-0YLp0-cFkTwlNm3kXKwrcIdoXsFo315Ue2pSnN10/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-12+at+1.27.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4t3TuIn8qxdgVQyjgFjfSJAXdCHtdDCazzqCHL8u-czdLvOS40FiNQNJzBQtg9JB7_BWO5UBmeI-kbnQ8KTyd4nD6wSROn57V31-0YLp0-cFkTwlNm3kXKwrcIdoXsFo315Ue2pSnN10/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-05-12+at+1.27.35+PM.png" width="353" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">photo from VanDykes</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my favorite features from a recent project are these beautiful brass egg knobs. I feel like I'm stepping back in time, yet they have a modern feel to them. They are available locally at Willis Klein.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5mynBd3Hre-Kkspi4NCl1ndiriXWThMkQ85Ir8RrGc3HKNi4_VKt-0DKng0GqrPq82PuZQ4tD0BHjzt8wQo_NdJqJJfVu-f3lCKE3Q8V45j14szTnRGCIlXM3_z7npoMcl_Req6SshY/s1600/IMG_0699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5mynBd3Hre-Kkspi4NCl1ndiriXWThMkQ85Ir8RrGc3HKNi4_VKt-0DKng0GqrPq82PuZQ4tD0BHjzt8wQo_NdJqJJfVu-f3lCKE3Q8V45j14szTnRGCIlXM3_z7npoMcl_Req6SshY/s640/IMG_0699.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope that you feel inspired to bring a little brass into your home. It really is a beautiful finish, all the while being timeless and elegant. And if you would like to see projects that Jason and I are working on you can follow along with our Instagram feeds. We are both really active with our accounts, and love posting projects we are working on. :) You can follow me <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gretchenblack/" target="_blank">here</a>, and Jason <a href="https://www.instagram.com/artisansignaturehomes/" target="_blank">here</a> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinspRGhs1-xfTg5Hz5VdZHABiczOkdtXJdotu5od6IaizEy0O9F4E1l7GM76HhKjLMSe4Z3GsPbi4J6GcxAPft2CJ_-J7ZOJaravA2nSB_Rkgv249h0d5aNDmClLWVv_DzoK3XT_Qpe_4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-12+at+6.09.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinspRGhs1-xfTg5Hz5VdZHABiczOkdtXJdotu5od6IaizEy0O9F4E1l7GM76HhKjLMSe4Z3GsPbi4J6GcxAPft2CJ_-J7ZOJaravA2nSB_Rkgv249h0d5aNDmClLWVv_DzoK3XT_Qpe_4/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-05-12+at+6.09.49+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-28793481072062228582016-01-12T13:03:00.000-05:002016-01-12T13:03:03.592-05:00Letters of LOVE<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope you are settling in to this winter weather we have been having. Since it's cold and snowy outside, why not find yourself an easy craft project to tackle? I have the perfect one for you, and it's very versatile. These are super easy to make, decoupaged letters. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HdEj3xsqF1Q_OOjCjfnYF9AgMomAtTOEYHv0GpDNSj6BYuPBNpiltKzZc-YIrNXijBnYxbqwg5tnn70H9pVBqfE_in5Sjs25QoJOgxvYnt5GF_JD8epk-xn8mGBWUICEN9zquo-Ez7w/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HdEj3xsqF1Q_OOjCjfnYF9AgMomAtTOEYHv0GpDNSj6BYuPBNpiltKzZc-YIrNXijBnYxbqwg5tnn70H9pVBqfE_in5Sjs25QoJOgxvYnt5GF_JD8epk-xn8mGBWUICEN9zquo-Ez7w/s640/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are the supplies that you will need.</div>
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*Cardboard letters (I found mine at Hobby Lobby)</div>
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*Decoupage</div>
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*Scissors</div>
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*Pencil</div>
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*Paint brush</div>
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*Craft paper (I purchased mine at Lulubelles Boutique it's from Rifle Paper Company)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqws2ALXnHXBR4oep36Cow3TMkZK5RCrcjNbPI_rqV0g-dEyYfw4NHo4Q6N16CBKn1hWLoE3fuCHZVseovgCsgtkTkyzlKL_HMUGKy0y7-cnR_hmoAEP07gKJYFdAN7VQNBjoYsBSjqxI/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqws2ALXnHXBR4oep36Cow3TMkZK5RCrcjNbPI_rqV0g-dEyYfw4NHo4Q6N16CBKn1hWLoE3fuCHZVseovgCsgtkTkyzlKL_HMUGKy0y7-cnR_hmoAEP07gKJYFdAN7VQNBjoYsBSjqxI/s640/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The first step, after you have gathered your supplies, is to trace your letters on the craft paper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Bnf1s1eScZPz5iyYZmxbip6lSwaFSHuw9NFycu6Kzr7plr2DUt7C-FjiWlk2m25lRitWEg31wV9-HTqgWf5LJ_gzYiDe7Volsnb2Dn1VKHX43w7pW1hZW5WeOwW14RFsWCEvPw-atcM/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Bnf1s1eScZPz5iyYZmxbip6lSwaFSHuw9NFycu6Kzr7plr2DUt7C-FjiWlk2m25lRitWEg31wV9-HTqgWf5LJ_gzYiDe7Volsnb2Dn1VKHX43w7pW1hZW5WeOwW14RFsWCEvPw-atcM/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Once the letter is traced, simply cut the letter out of the paper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQRBdshYMBfvk20E4IRSsyluuXoeprrmcVz4zL4JQOAiAo3uwrxGpwLmH1WDO9yqoyE_JQtOb7poGjvlTnHrKwidtXAD-veeCohudd4VSESA-_zUwCMaf2JASHOqJHUXF51rk40x-vPU/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQRBdshYMBfvk20E4IRSsyluuXoeprrmcVz4zL4JQOAiAo3uwrxGpwLmH1WDO9yqoyE_JQtOb7poGjvlTnHrKwidtXAD-veeCohudd4VSESA-_zUwCMaf2JASHOqJHUXF51rk40x-vPU/s640/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Next you will apply a thick layer of the decoupage on the actual cardboard letter. Make sure that you apply liberally.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NY5y4D7oftZqxPF1VqenFuopIRLc2mLopjEmaYIal1t1KeeFZWvPZTeMCC3k8YK1_KmjmRiuOBYL7zoqnT7iU-PfAg9UOVFDG4Mv3Ad3LwR1tTWHInJTey2qbycQndXhuzyqQ9TcPQ4/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NY5y4D7oftZqxPF1VqenFuopIRLc2mLopjEmaYIal1t1KeeFZWvPZTeMCC3k8YK1_KmjmRiuOBYL7zoqnT7iU-PfAg9UOVFDG4Mv3Ad3LwR1tTWHInJTey2qbycQndXhuzyqQ9TcPQ4/s640/FullSizeRender-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I work in sections, applying the decoupage and the paper on the top portion first. Then I work my way down. Next you will seal the craft paper with the decoupage.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5u8B7l-bFs7U0_P02O0Ty2Nz7JjotilQryHNxsByjela-ETQp5lZAktV2GxEw3vIrgW2T_wsf772fONVLCf-T9E3OuWaiKRKFW6bfK4GEvJu74Jou2hDNL5r7jMSC4i-BJPh8p4-7OM/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5u8B7l-bFs7U0_P02O0Ty2Nz7JjotilQryHNxsByjela-ETQp5lZAktV2GxEw3vIrgW2T_wsf772fONVLCf-T9E3OuWaiKRKFW6bfK4GEvJu74Jou2hDNL5r7jMSC4i-BJPh8p4-7OM/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Be sure to smooth out any bubbles before the decoupage starts to dry, and remember that when your craft paper is wet, it may tear easily, so be extra careful</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGD3ziKxK0TFh0rIPq42la_UBjpcqFBwoNGubuPgrptexOo7CFIqOqXnfYbb1H9MQfqOO1A7TaA7hfTJpi0kKCC_BkIRbjScdNr_evGy8og1Lh3IQepPBaR4mHa7yoX5AnHqKHhWevKCE/s1600/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGD3ziKxK0TFh0rIPq42la_UBjpcqFBwoNGubuPgrptexOo7CFIqOqXnfYbb1H9MQfqOO1A7TaA7hfTJpi0kKCC_BkIRbjScdNr_evGy8og1Lh3IQepPBaR4mHa7yoX5AnHqKHhWevKCE/s640/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Continue on with the next letters. You can even cut out extra shapes and flowers, then add them for some extra interest like I did with the & sign.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWg2GarHoj8xqRSh84Nb1akRAk6Fc1NgNTw_I894hxc9vsqu6hyphenhyphenDBt8_3ruPy3BFrMRGPWaGqJcG-8dUDLwacrWUPsBMtbg4EMcF-xqlMB6NUtdi7-aOe3YZkldON3rbRwr4uLFZte-4A/s1600/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWg2GarHoj8xqRSh84Nb1akRAk6Fc1NgNTw_I894hxc9vsqu6hyphenhyphenDBt8_3ruPy3BFrMRGPWaGqJcG-8dUDLwacrWUPsBMtbg4EMcF-xqlMB6NUtdi7-aOe3YZkldON3rbRwr4uLFZte-4A/s640/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Here is the finished product, along with another set of letters that I made just in time for Valentines Day next month. </div>
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We have these beautiful Rifle Paper Company papers available at our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LoveLulubelles/" target="_blank">Lulubelles</a> Boutique located in Norton Commons in Prospect, KY. You could certainly create lots of beautiful decoupage craft projects with them.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by. I hope you found some inspiration to create some lovely letters for yourself. :)</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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<br />Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-86055517905412192212016-01-01T07:58:00.000-05:002016-01-01T09:06:00.074-05:00One Little Word 2016<div style="text-align: center;">
Goodness, I can't believe it is 2016! This past year has been a whirlwind to say the least. <a href="http://nestinginthebluegrass.blogspot.com/2015/01/one-little-word-2015.html" target="_blank">Believe </a>was my one little word for last year, and I needed a whole lot of believing to get me through at times. Funny how our one little word picks us, more than we chose it. 2015 came with a lot of changes. I spent most of the beginning in and out of the hospital with three different attempts to get rid of a pesky kidney stone, which ultimately ended in a long 4 1/2 day hospital visit. Kidney stones=no fun! The silver lining was that I did get to catch up on my favorite shows like Fixer Upper, and thank goodness for the Hallmark Channel and all their sappy movies. :) I also took a watercolor art class last winter which ended up being comical and therapeutic. I had visions of becoming an amazing watercolor artist and be able create pretty floral scenes like Anna Rifle Bond, or Katie Daisy, however, we learned how to paint some fruit, and a barn scene. We did touch on painting some red and purple tulips, I like tulips, but red and purple ones, not so much. I was really hoping for some hydrangeas or peonies. #fail I did learn some great tips, and most importantly had some great laughs with friends. Needless to say, none of my art from the class is hanging up in the house. </div>
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Right before Easter I lost my aunt Bonnie. It was unexpected, and heartbreaking. She was one of the sweetest ladies, and a hilarious jokester. Every Easter she had an Easter egg hunt for all of us, including us adult "kids." We had the best time running around her back yard looking for the high dollar eggs. Some eggs were worth $20!!! I can still hear her giggling, while we are all looking everywhere, leaving no stone, or blade of grass, unturned. Every year there was one missing egg, so someday the new home owners are going to find an awesome treat in their back yard. This is a tradition that I will be passing on to my boys, they were so lucky to have known her.</div>
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Soon after that, I lost my beloved Granny. What an amazing blessing it was to have her in my life as long as I did. She was one of the most beautiful souls I've ever known. She always made me feel so special even though she had nine children, 25 plus grandchildren, and 25 plus great-grandchildren. Every year on my birthday since I can remember she called and sang the Happy Birthday song to me. Now what makes her version so special is that she added another verse. She always sang, May God bless you, may God bless you, may God bless Gretchen, may God bless you. So that is how we have always sang the Happy Birthday song in our home. I know that her birthday tradition will continue on for many generations to come. I miss her every day, but find peace knowing that she is up in heaven with my Pa-pa.</div>
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Spring came, and after a lot of talking and praying, Jason and I decided we were going to put our house up for sale. Yep, our gorgeous dream home, that we had poured our hearts and souls into, going on the market. It was around that time, with everything that had gone on, good and bad, that we both felt the need to just simplify. And honestly, six months ago I felt quite sure that my one little word was going to be simplify, but it's not and I'll explain why later. Jason was also making big changes in his life. He had finally decided to lose weight, and I could tell he was serious this time. I am so proud of him. To date he has lost 100lbs. He also decided to start his own new construction company. He was willing to leave everything behind that he had worked so hard at for over 10 years, and start fresh. He is still building beautiful homes, just under a new name, <a href="http://www.artisansignaturehomes.com/" target="_blank">Artisan Signature Homes</a>. Needless to say, faith and belief got us through a lot of sleepless nights during this time.</div>
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So the house went on the market, and then Natalie and I broke ground on our new business venture. We finally took the leap of faith and decided to build our own boutique in Norton Commons. Both Jason and I were now starting new businesses. Yikes!! A little scary to say the least, but again I still had faith and believed it would all work out, and it eventually did! We got a contract in the summer on the house, and finally closed on it in the late fall! So this fall we packed the house up, with our family, and moved, yet again. It's our ninth move together. I LOVE building, the move, not so much. This Spring we will move again into the house in Norton Commons we are building. We got this! Oh and I turned the big 40 in July!! Now can you see why the word simplify almost seems ironic to use as my one little word for 2016? </div>
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Which leads me to my new word for 2016, which is BALANCE!!!! To balance means that you equally distribute. This will be my challenge this year. I want to make sure my husband and my boys get enough of my time, while managing a new boutique, giving time to devote to prayer and my bible study, finding time for dear family and friends, keeping up with social media, trying to blog a little more, find a little "me" time, and continue my Nerium and design businesses, which I am designing my cousin Abby and her hubby's Homearama house, along with the house we are building. I can make it work, I just need to figure out how all the puzzle pieces fit together, and always keep what's most important in the forefront. Despite what this world throws at you, good or bad, I think it is so important for all of us to find that balance in our lives. "Balance comes in the moments when you stand up for the life you truly want for yourself, by making choices that truly align with that." I truly believe that Jason and I both are the on the right path for building the life with our boys that we truly want, and I feel at peace and blessed to be starting off 2016 feeling that way. </div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-59413212548789005342015-10-05T13:42:00.000-04:002015-10-05T13:42:24.113-04:00Our Home we built, the "Greystone Manor"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've lived in our dream house for three years now. This house is a collaboration of design work between my husband and myself, down to every last detail. Building homes together is something we both love and enjoy. So today I am going to share some photos of our home that our friend, and professional photographer <a href="http://realtourcast.com/" target="_blank">Tim Furlong </a>took. Our home was built by my husband Jason Black, and you can find his new company website <a href="http://www.artisansignaturehomes.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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A tour of our home....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2KjPPUH0ah_2nnhHzZqS8Iux2a93_Zz15RTPs5Y_xM-d3Jgt0S-bA_GeaN4mYl-h1eLCqAsU7mcU3eeGu5wwApbXMXmVyi3I7B91h9afMNGfD2JQ0LNMHRwJImtX7JDVon2wG3lqDzc/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25281+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2KjPPUH0ah_2nnhHzZqS8Iux2a93_Zz15RTPs5Y_xM-d3Jgt0S-bA_GeaN4mYl-h1eLCqAsU7mcU3eeGu5wwApbXMXmVyi3I7B91h9afMNGfD2JQ0LNMHRwJImtX7JDVon2wG3lqDzc/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25281+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLy96h10q1Bjc00wX4YEMhJvWDeZ5q3F9fO6clbr4XPJuYIaTUSs95k5cCr8IptrfoQWRzVKg0TqqCxAt4PJo9UwaTANFLN1eOJydchCK9sSvLenGXsxs_iureakf3T5hgg_pGVJYeNw/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25284+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLy96h10q1Bjc00wX4YEMhJvWDeZ5q3F9fO6clbr4XPJuYIaTUSs95k5cCr8IptrfoQWRzVKg0TqqCxAt4PJo9UwaTANFLN1eOJydchCK9sSvLenGXsxs_iureakf3T5hgg_pGVJYeNw/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25284+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wall color is Sea Salt by Sherwin Williams</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQYuC9p_p_IMLVR63wE6RkSajmTXDxEfoW1f_9P7SOslvE2d2TqMCPt8VtYH1SZHfdMCiN8osl0FrglwqaYgirK3WW6aYs4YuCOMbtjUvFp7W29BGJlntS9ez3URwGtLrynL94V9MSN4/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25286+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQYuC9p_p_IMLVR63wE6RkSajmTXDxEfoW1f_9P7SOslvE2d2TqMCPt8VtYH1SZHfdMCiN8osl0FrglwqaYgirK3WW6aYs4YuCOMbtjUvFp7W29BGJlntS9ez3URwGtLrynL94V9MSN4/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25286+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wall color is Grant Beige by Benjamin Moore</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3390DVTVQk1bRNNKgqO6RYoelnYNdYmvQf0MacsmFLRXI3KbawQchMNesj9SlsfN20yaUYjdvNLeRN9Pe92IkGdDvLDx5YXzW8SdTZP4NoD6owTW5MZAz-BLQp1Pg-0OwbFlFel6bAts/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25287+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3390DVTVQk1bRNNKgqO6RYoelnYNdYmvQf0MacsmFLRXI3KbawQchMNesj9SlsfN20yaUYjdvNLeRN9Pe92IkGdDvLDx5YXzW8SdTZP4NoD6owTW5MZAz-BLQp1Pg-0OwbFlFel6bAts/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%25287+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite surround is Calcutta Gold Marble</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Salt on the walls again, it's a common color theme throughout our home.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFSfFxeWhFQVQcLPkTfPBBumerqzrFP05ct5JOoB9U_XBFK3SrKmOATNGaqGBNzel2Tmi4ce7IwfIsXvOrUQcB45eSklJ1PSBHsmK6ftg87Y3isy4j-ZorRomcmFrfJRuXYrTqoImd94/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252811+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFSfFxeWhFQVQcLPkTfPBBumerqzrFP05ct5JOoB9U_XBFK3SrKmOATNGaqGBNzel2Tmi4ce7IwfIsXvOrUQcB45eSklJ1PSBHsmK6ftg87Y3isy4j-ZorRomcmFrfJRuXYrTqoImd94/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252811+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabinet color was a custom color blend. We have quartzite on the island.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOpPgs7_jwW7nCfzGUEgBnX1cpYysR65yXOftsT-wMEOBaeKmvnHIezY4BlgkzMqcq9i5uXI45LIWm3OVHq4IvSeSh78L16visUNZp6C39rDGcFJ19HRZ5cBZH6dzdRvjlRy7q2y2lvI/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252817+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOpPgs7_jwW7nCfzGUEgBnX1cpYysR65yXOftsT-wMEOBaeKmvnHIezY4BlgkzMqcq9i5uXI45LIWm3OVHq4IvSeSh78L16visUNZp6C39rDGcFJ19HRZ5cBZH6dzdRvjlRy7q2y2lvI/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252817+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar stools are from Ballard Design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZ9TLs2SPAs191EUt7g_JnMcMp6sUQyPn8tSs4Y7kuepW9QM07PJpvgrqWIuV6pur41wc91cNALAo86IMw_OIEJr_z4r2OB1QlCfNgAb6UzNCzLVmvQkrEjvRhdW4Bnby5fyGr-GhGhU/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252826+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZ9TLs2SPAs191EUt7g_JnMcMp6sUQyPn8tSs4Y7kuepW9QM07PJpvgrqWIuV6pur41wc91cNALAo86IMw_OIEJr_z4r2OB1QlCfNgAb6UzNCzLVmvQkrEjvRhdW4Bnby5fyGr-GhGhU/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252826+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We custom designed our railing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUldHtOvhwZHkpvpADhtcJ81IGVxUVmFf82yXGk81mNz1bS991ZBhjhqX6Qfd9qxpo2W-mcT_jYpdCZ0V_fAox5krkMaFbrRaW3hchPnXFimo0o2lyEbavPdGtXt9l2U26W3IdBI9jwI0/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252827+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUldHtOvhwZHkpvpADhtcJ81IGVxUVmFf82yXGk81mNz1bS991ZBhjhqX6Qfd9qxpo2W-mcT_jYpdCZ0V_fAox5krkMaFbrRaW3hchPnXFimo0o2lyEbavPdGtXt9l2U26W3IdBI9jwI0/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252827+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Salt is the wall color</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlP35f9xMqXBdU0hnNo3HetaixRTTyAUS87mIXLUCRRbF8vqpoTuKBHBTaUEQMtroirGGcVD-Dp-g1rrjxhG371dRkb12h9mXj5YFqxlM4tdJ0g_NseNqKkGNEfKDOKnFkB6jqzSj48s/s1600/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252842+of+53%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlP35f9xMqXBdU0hnNo3HetaixRTTyAUS87mIXLUCRRbF8vqpoTuKBHBTaUEQMtroirGGcVD-Dp-g1rrjxhG371dRkb12h9mXj5YFqxlM4tdJ0g_NseNqKkGNEfKDOKnFkB6jqzSj48s/s640/RealTourCast+%257C+J+Black+%257C+Greystone+%252842+of+53%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleeping porch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sleeping porch with hanging beds<br />
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If you would ever like to share or repost our photos in a blog post or other publication please email me. Information is in the contact me area on my home page. :) And stay tuned, because we are building a new home and can't wait to share photos with you. You can follow me on Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/gretchenblack/" target="_blank">here</a>, or my husband and his building company <a href="https://instagram.com/artisansignaturehomes/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-88611729923555757622015-01-21T13:06:00.000-05:002015-01-21T13:29:52.820-05:00Love Notes for Valentines Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope the new year is treating you well. So far I have been keeping up with my New Years Resolutions, and it's been keeping me busy, which is a good thing. Since Valentines Day is less than a month away I wanted to share with you an easy little project that you can make and use starting now through Valentines Day. It's my love note heart project. The purpose of this project is to create a heart with a pocket where you can leave love notes for your sweetie, and your kids. I challenge you to put something new in it every day. Maybe words of encouragement, or a sweet reminder why you love them so much, or even a ticket for a date night out. These are just a few suggestions. </div>
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So here is a list of the supplies that you will need.</div>
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<ul>
<li>Wooden Heart(I found mine at Michaels Craft Store)</li>
<li>Scrapbook paper</li>
<li>Crepe paper</li>
<li>Tickets or paper slips</li>
<li>Washi tape</li>
<li>Embellishments</li>
<li>Tape</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Pencil</li>
</ul>
The first step I did was to trace the shape of the heart on the back of the scrapbook paper that I was using. Then I cut out the shape of the heart using my scissors.<br />
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After cutting the heart shape out, I then used my double sided tape at applied it to the wooden heart. I did this to add stability to the heart, so it wasn't just a flimsy piece of paper.<br />
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Next I took the crepe paper and pinch pleated it all around the heart using my tape. This is the most tedious part of the project. </div>
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I then trimmed the crepe paper.</div>
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I found some small envelopes in the dollar section at Michaels a while back, and it worked out to be the perfect size for my center envelope. I attached it with tape. If you don't have these, you can make your own small envelope, or use a small paper bag. Most craft stores have those. </div>
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Here is an example of the small bags you could use too.</div>
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The last step is to embellish your heart with words, or vintage Valentines. Get creative here, and make it your own. </div>
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Hope you feel inspired to create a love notes heart for your nest. I think it's a fun way to stay connected with your immediate family and let them know how much you love them. Thanks for stopping by.</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-18719239178521549112015-01-01T09:14:00.002-05:002015-01-01T09:33:01.181-05:00One Little Word 2015<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uBVjrXDq4cIJRTm12V8MET9eLbcvEG5ZKVtSUMQSiieAwGFjRFfCTpnqtXhKaPW9Tg8TqDbFre7TKNMpeAAjs1__h_gnfYzUHXQM9AHvG5DMlejkhGQHOoiWuFw56AIEUug1te-Owoc/s1600/photo-11.JPG" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">created using Rhonna Design App</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Are you ready for 2015? Well ready or not here it comes. How can it be that another year has come and gone? Was 2014 everything you hoped it to be and more? This is my end of the year, start of the new year post, where I reflect, and share my hopes and dreams for the new year. My one little word #OLW for 2014 was <a href="http://nestinginthebluegrass.blogspot.com/2013/12/one-little-word-for-2014.html" target="_blank">LOVE</a>. My motto for the year was LOVE it in 2014, and leave it in 2013. I really embraced this word and motto all throughout the year. I found myself doing more of the things that I really loved to do, and leaving behind the garbage that would drag me down. I found a wonderful group of friends who have become like sisters to me. Blogging has become something I do more often, and I have found so much joy in blogging this year. It's been so fun getting those creative juices flowing and sharing my thoughts and ideas with you.<br />
However, it's a new year, and though I will continue to take LOVE into 2015, I will also focus on my new one little word which is BELIEVE. Believing is accepting something as truth, but for me it's so much more. It's having faith in something when you can't always see it. Funny how that works isn't it? Blind faith, and believing. It's so easy to believe in something or someone when you can see it, but something spiritual happens when you believe in something just based on faith. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">"Keep the faith,</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">the most amazing things in life</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">tend to happen</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">right at the moment </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">you are about to</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">give up hope."</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span">So I am going to chose to believe that things happen for a reason, and it's not always about my timing, but the timing of a greater power. I'm going to believe in my friends and family, and always look for the best qualities in them. I'll continue to be a half glass full type of person, and always believe that something wonderful is about to happen. Optimism is so much better than negativity. :) My dreams and goals will not fall by the wayside. I will continue to nurture and believe in them. Looking forward to lots of amazing and exciting things in 2015!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">"Believe in your own magic"</span></b><br />
We should all believe in our own magic. I think we have all been blessed with special talents, and if we use them wisely, imagine what a better place this world would be.<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">"Believe you can </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">and you are </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">half way there"</span></b><br />
Throw all that self-doubt out the door and believe in yourself. Forget about all the reasons something won't work, and focus on the one reason it will. Positive thoughts come more freely when you actually believe in yourself. Cut the negativity out, and let the positivity in. Don't be tempted by petty gossip.<br />
<b>Be<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">lieve</span></b><br />
<b>the<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">re is</span></b><br />
<b>Good </b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;">in the world.</span></b><br />
I'm going to try my best to be the good in the world. Hopefully by trying my best, then my boys will also be young men who strive to be the good. Kids learn by example, so don't we as parents want to be a wonderful example for them?<br />
Well, there you have it. I have had such an amazing 2014, and feel so blessed. I achieved goals that I worked hard towards, and I'm looking forward to seeing what 2015 brings.<br />
I wish you much love and belief in yourself in 2015. I may not even know you, but I believe in you. So have faith, share the love, and believe in your own magic because there is nothing more powerful than faith and belief. Cheers to 2015!<br />
XO~Gretchen<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a2c4c9;"><br /></span></b></div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-56070391021137511882014-12-30T18:04:00.000-05:002014-12-30T18:04:45.584-05:00Yarn Tassel Garland<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking for a fun garland idea for your NYE party? How about making this super easy tassel garland, I made for my mantel. It's my twist on the popular tissue tassel garland, except this one won't be ruined if it accidentally gets wet. Speaking from experience here. ;) </div>
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Here is a list of the supplies you will need.</div>
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Extra thick or fluffyYarn (I found mine at Joann Crafts and Michaels Craft Store)</div>
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Scissors<br />Lace (Just another option)</div>
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Tape measure</div>
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First you will cut strips of the yarn and lace. I cute mine to about 14 inches. You can make yours as long or short as you'd like. To make mine extra fluffy I used 15 strips of yarn per tassel. </div>
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Next you will just fold the strips in half.</div>
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Then cut an extra piece to tie around the bundle. Then you end up with a tassel.</div>
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You can trim pieces as needed. I would make at least eight of these to make a tassel garland. Last step is to just string them together with a long piece of yarn. </div>
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There are so many great yarn choices out there now, that you can really create some beautiful garlands. You can make one for NYE, a birthday party or shower, or a pink, red, and white one would be gorgeous for Valentines, which is just around the corner. I made several of these for gifts this year, they are just so fun!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, hope you feel inspired to create a yarn garland of your own.</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
<br /><br /><br />Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-27265533390617423202014-12-09T11:26:00.000-05:002014-12-09T11:32:37.441-05:00OH Deer<div style="text-align: center;">
As promised here is the post about the recent deer artwork that I made for our mantel. It is really an easy piece to make, and you can size it accordingly. Maybe make one for yourself and one as a gift, because faux deer heads are all the rave right now. :)</div>
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So here are the supplies that you will need:</div>
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<li>A canvas, you can choose the size. Or I used scrap boards and painted them white, and had my husband attach them together from the back.</li>
<li>Pencil to sketch out your deer head</li>
<li>Paint color of your choice</li>
<li>Scrapbook paper</li>
<li>I used my Silhouette Cameo to cut out the flower shapes and the Joyeux Noel. I use my machine often, it really comes in handy. Maybe if you don't' have one, you can ask Santa ;)</li>
<li>Paint brushes</li>
<li>Glue and double sided tape</li>
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I painted my boards white, if you are using a canvas, this is not necessary. Then I sketched a deer head on the board. I did this free handed, with a pencil and eraser. Feel free to look for a downloadable stencil if you do not feel comfortable just drawing by hand. <a href="http://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/?page=search-designs&search_designs=true&q=deer+head" target="_blank">Silhouette</a> has some great designs to download. </div>
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Once I felt like I had all my proportions correct, I then painted my deer gray. Feel free to paint your deer, whatever color will work with your decor.</div>
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Next I used my silhouette cameo to cut out the words Joyeux Noel. You can find that design <a href="http://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/?page=view-shape&id=14584" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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I used good old Elmers glue to glue it to my board. Next I used my cameo again to cut out flowers in various colors. You can find that <a href="http://www.silhouettedesignstore.com/?page=view-shape&id=57543" target="_blank">here</a>. It made it so easy to cut and assemble the flowers, and I love paper flowers, you can get really creative with your colors, and they never need to be watered. ;)</div>
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I used double sided tape to assemble the flowers into a crown on the head of the deer. It was really simple to do. And there you have it! My artwork is displayed on a mantel in our master bedroom. I really love the whimsy it adds.</div>
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Hope you feel inspired to make one for yourself. Happy Holidays, see you back here soon.</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-81744524624054152252014-12-08T11:05:00.000-05:002014-12-08T12:27:19.340-05:00Holiday Mantel<div style="text-align: center;">
Hope you had a wonderful weekend. It certainly is a busy time of the year. I spent some time this weekend and worked on our holiday mantel in our master bedroom. I've been dreaming of having a mantel in our bedroom for some time now. I didn't think I wanted an actual fireplace when we built, just a fun mantel to decorate. My husband and I decided to take a trip downtown to a local Architectural Salvage store. We walked through many rooms filled with all kinds of antique treasures, from old door knobs, to trim pieces, several different gorgeous old hand carved mantels, but they were huge. I wasn't looking for anything grand, just a quaint fireplace surround with character, and an extra bonus if it had an arch. We were instructed to look outside too. Low and behold, there it was, the perfect fireplace surround that I had envisioned in my head. My husband and I were both excited, sometimes things are just meant to be. This is an old iron fireplace that had been painted over, and sitting out in the weather, so it was going to need some TLC. I was certainly up for the challenge. Here is how it looked when we found it.....</div>
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It's hard to tell from the photo, but the top was filled with rust spots since there were all kinds of metal rusty pieces sitting on the top, and it was just plain dirty. So with a scrub brush, and some cleaner I was able to clean it up and here is how it looks now in our bedroom...</div>
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I styled the center with old vintage books, something I've been collecting for years. The artwork I made, and I will have a DIY post about it, later this week. So grab you some boards, or a big canvas will work too. The garland I also made, it's my twist on the popular tassel garland design. I will also have a separate blog post showing you how to make this, so collect some ribbon and yarn. :) Everything else came from shopping around my own home. I really do love this mantel, it makes our room seem so cozy and charming. I told my husband that I feel like we are at a bed and breakfast every night now. Mantels are my favorite thing to decorate, I think if we ever build again I may have to add one to every room. ;) </div>
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Hope you feel inspired to decorate your mantel, or a bookshelf, or furniture piece. These are all ideas that could easily be incorporated. Stop back by later in the week to get those tutorials on how to make the deer sign, and the garland. Have a blessed day!</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-21932961407859307872014-12-02T10:37:00.001-05:002014-12-03T16:52:49.530-05:00How to make a vintage bottle brush ornament wreath<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello everyone, can you even believe it's Christmas time? Our tree is up, and I am in total Christmas craft making mode. There is not enough time in the day to complete all the projects I have stored up in my brain. Well today is one of my favorite projects that I'll be sharing with you this holiday season, and it was inspired by my mom. Creativity runs in the family. You may have seen these gorgeous holiday wreaths, but often times they are priced really high, in fact I recently saw one priced at $225.Yowser! Here is the one that I created.</div>
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You can make one for a lot less by following these simple steps. First here is a list of the supplies you will need.</div>
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<li>A wreath, this wreath my mom found at Joann Crafts</li>
<li>Ornaments, new or old</li>
<li>Glue gun</li>
<li>Vintage bits and pieces</li>
<li>Fingernail polish remover if you want to make ornaments look old</li>
<li><br /></li>
</ul>
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I started by placing the bigger ornaments and pieces around the wreath, so that they would be evenly distributed. I'm a kinda symmetrical girl. (wink)<br />
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Carefully glue them in to place using a low temp glue gun.</div>
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Then fill in the extra spaces with the smaller ornaments.</div>
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Want to make them look old and vintage? Simply use the fingernail polish remover and lightly wipe across them, and it will take the color finish off. Your new ornaments will now look vintage.</div>
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This project doesn't take much time. I finished it in about 45 mins. These are perfect to make as gifts for your vintage loving friends, or put one out on your table with your favorite candle as a centerpiece. I even think it would be lovely hanging on a mirror or door. You can find the video tutorial <a href="http://www.wlky.com/entertainment/crafting-with-gretchen-vintage-bottle-brush-ornament-wreath/30040674" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by, I hope you feel inspired to make one for yourself. Wishing you happy holiday, and be sure to stop by again soon, more Christmas projects are in the works. FALALALALALALAAA!</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-50387980562192358172014-11-17T18:58:00.000-05:002014-11-17T18:58:16.207-05:00Snowy Days<div style="text-align: center;">
Excited to annouce a new segment I'll be posting about from time to time. I'm a girl who loves fashion, so I thought it was important to include a little fashion in my blog. I want to show you how to style outfits, and feel glamorous in whatever you have on. Speaking of glamour this first post is all about glamour, gold, and icy weather. My boys asked if I was dressed like a Disney princess, I had envisioned that I was dressed for a romantic carriage ride through the snow with my husband. :)</div>
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Details for my outfit:</div>
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Skirt: purchased from <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/shop/catalog/product/view/id/6775/" target="_blank">Shabbyapple</a> I fell in love with this skirt the moment I saw it online. My advice is if you are in between sizes, then I would size up. I think it runs a tad small.</div>
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Scarf: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-crochet-twisted-snood-scarf/-/A-15611476#prodSlot=medium_2_16&term=scarf" target="_blank">Target</a></div>
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Ear muffs: <a href="http://www.jcpenney.com/mixit-solid-faux-fur-ear-muffs/prod.jump?ppId=pp5004620334&selectedSKUId=10534120034&selectedLotId=1053412&fromBag=true&cm_mmc=ShoppingFeed-_-GooglePLA-_-Ear%20Muffs-_-10534120034&utm_medium=cse&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=ear%20muffs&utm_content=10534120034&cvosrc=cse.google.10534120034&cvo_cid=43281314618&gclid=CJf32YTngsICFew7MgodmEQAvQ&kwid=productads-plaid%5E67371896738-sku%5E10534120034-adType%5EPLA-device%5Ec-adid%5E43281314618" target="_blank">JC Penny</a> has them</div>
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Lace top: You can find a similar one at <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/39103?article=39103-A&cm_mmc=pla-_-us-_-ladies_tops_long_sleeved-_-39103&gclid=CMvW56jngsICFYlcMgodamsAYQ" target="_blank">H&M</a></div>
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I layered a white button down shirt underneath it, because it was freezing out. </div>
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Thank you to my husband for helping me with this photo shoot, and braving the cold to take photos. </div>
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I hope you feel inspired to get dressed up this holiday season. There is no better time of year to dress your best, and glam it up, then the holidays.</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-22818221115883368112014-11-09T11:40:00.000-05:002014-11-09T11:40:14.020-05:00Thanksgiving Table Setting<div style="text-align: center;">
So when you think of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner table setting, what do you think of? Maybe pumpkins, mums, plates with turkeys on them, maybe some burlap? Well I wanted to design a table setting with a different twist on those themes. So I set out to design a table with eclectic elements that I already had, with the theme, "You mean the world to me." Thanksgiving is about getting together with those you love. It shouldn't be a stressful time spent looking everywhere for the perfect plates, or table cloth, how about instead you look around and use what you have, and make it special. I admit, I do have an issue collecting plates, but I generally choose ones that can be used any time of the year. I buy them in groups of six or eight. I can't always find more than six, and that's ok because I don't mind mixing from time to time. Here is my table setting, all I need are my guest. Hope you feel inspired to create an eclectic table setting, and have family and friends over to celebrate during this holiday season. Details throughout the post.</div>
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I found the table runner fabric at Hobby Lobby. I love the wood grain design on the fabric. I think it's perfect for this time of the year, because it makes me think of stacks of wood and our fireplace. I simply glued the pom poms on the end of the table runner, and it finished it off. You can create your own table runner by simply measuring the length of your table, then getting that amount of fabric. I folded the fabric in half, long ways, sewed it up the side, then added the trim on each end. Super easy and cost effective. This is a great way to really customize your table setting.</div>
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I found the place cards in the Holiday section at Target. They are meant to be chalkboard place cards, so you can use chalk to customize them, but I chose to use a pretty gold pen instead, since I have a reoccurring gold them throughout.</div>
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The bird dishes were found at Homegoods, I was bummed that I could only find four of them. The bee dishes and tea cups are from Anthropologie. They both have a great selection of dishes and cups, and check the sale room, sometimes you can get a great deal.</div>
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The napkins were made from fabric I picked up from Hobby Lobby. I loved the design and the mustard color. I feel like they also help to make the table setting feel more autumnal. </div>
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My cousin Natalie painted on the globe, and I love that it says "You are my whole world." I think that phrase sets the tone for your dinner. I added vintage vases, tins, and books to add a little fun and whimsy to the table. </div>
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You can find paper straws just about anywhere now. These gold and white ones are from Target.</div>
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There you have it. I hope you feel inspired to host a gathering at your nest for the ones that mean the most in your life. Look inside those cabinets, think outside of the box, and know that what is most important is spending time with loved ones. </div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-35641874356063459442014-11-04T13:29:00.000-05:002014-11-04T13:29:10.969-05:00Thanksgiving Wreath<div style="text-align: center;">
Hi everyone, hope you are having a wonderful November so far. I can't believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This fall is just flying by. Today I am going to show you how to make an easy burlap wreath for your front door. Thanksgiving is such a short holiday season to decorate, but I wanted to have something on my front door, so I came up with this design.</div>
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Here is a list of the supplies you will need. I found mine all locally at Dee's Crafts.</div>
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A green wire wreath</div>
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Roll of mesh burlap </div>
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Extra accent ribbon of your choice</div>
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Wire</div>
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Chalkboard</div>
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Chalk</div>
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So the first thing I did was to look up a video on how to make a burlap wreath. There are tons on You Tube. </div>
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Dees craft even has a great <a href="http://www.deescrafts.com/" target="_blank">You Tube</a> channel of their own.</div>
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Next, grab your burlap, and wire and wrap it around and secure it. </div>
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The wreath is set up to have three separate openings. There is a reason for this, so that you can feed three separate loops through each of the openings. I just kind of bunched and looped.</div>
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You will continue to do this, and because the burlap is so thick, it stays secured between the wire. Work your way around the entire wreath. I was able to complete this task in about 15 minutes. The end result looks like this.</div>
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You can go back and fluff the wreath after you are finished. </div>
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The next step I did was to add the wired ribbon.</div>
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I chose the pillow ticking ribbon, because I love how it reminds me of Fall. I added the aqua burlap ribbon, because it coordinates with my front door. :) And of course I love aqua. </div>
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I cut the ribbon in strips and then folded it half, securing the middle section with wire. I was then able to tie the wire around the wreath, and tuck it in.</div>
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I trimmed each of the points, so each ribbon piece looked finished. </div>
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Next, I added the chalkboard, which I found at Dee's Craft. I used some wire to tie it in the wreath.</div>
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Finally I added my chalk doodle. I chose to write, "Give Thanks." Such a simple phrase, but a wonderful reminder.</div>
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There you have it! This wreath is great for this transitional time between Halloween and Christmas. Sometimes Thanksgiving decor gets overlooked. You could also use this wreath other times of the year, just simply erase your board and create something season appropriate. </div>
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Thanks so much for stopping by. I am truly thankful for you, and hope you found a little inspiration for your nest.</div>
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Until next time....</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-28861751287112648802014-10-24T11:01:00.001-04:002014-10-29T07:34:01.255-04:00Halloween Treat Jar<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't believe next week is Halloween, this Fall is just flying by! Today I have an easy DIY project. You can learn how to make these cute little Halloween treat jars.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictUoSspJtfU2WaIvc1OzjS3llk6oKtXY7MoFs6CTdxoQeGwijreA6f8ySnckUamv0zzPLFxoG1NfVTVqUqD-UPmWTizl1VhD4GbCO63Ppvu2FM0S6DB3eaJVIs59JquIXGNkcGgRSG_E/s1600/IMG_3549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictUoSspJtfU2WaIvc1OzjS3llk6oKtXY7MoFs6CTdxoQeGwijreA6f8ySnckUamv0zzPLFxoG1NfVTVqUqD-UPmWTizl1VhD4GbCO63Ppvu2FM0S6DB3eaJVIs59JquIXGNkcGgRSG_E/s1600/IMG_3549.JPG" height="500" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are the supplies you will need:</div>
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Round glass jar. I found at Joann's Craft Store</div>
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Small witch hat. I also found at Joanns</div>
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Candy of your choice. I used Halloween M&M's</div>
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Halloween embellishments. You can download clip art and print it</div>
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Crepe paper</div>
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Ribbon or twine</div>
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A tag. I found mine at Joanns</div>
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A sharpie</div>
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Glue gun</div>
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Glue sticks</div>
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Double sided tape</div>
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First you will decorate your witch hat. Grab some ric rack, or ribbon and glue it around the base of the hat. I used the pumpkin stickers and added folded crepe paper to the back. I then used the double sided tape to help secure the crepe paper. Then I added a little torn piece of book page.</div>
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Pick your favorite candy and treat. I chose the M&M's because I thought they were the perfect color and they are white chocolate, which is my fav. </div>
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I found these metal tags also at Joanns, and you can write on them with a sharpie. It's the perfect way to personalize your gift. </div>
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I am already thinking how you could find a little black top hat, and make these into snowmen for the holidays. :) You could add little embellishments to the hat, and a scarf. For the video tutorial to this craft you can click<a href="http://www.wlky.com/entertainment/crafting-with-gretchen-diy-halloween-treat-jars/29356740" target="_blank"> here</a>. </div>
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Volia' the perfect little treat jar. You can give these out to your kids, grandkids, teachers, neighbors, or any special person in your life. Enjoy and thanks for stopping by!</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
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Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-15286756894222286522014-10-06T12:17:00.002-04:002014-10-06T12:17:44.456-04:00Polka dot Witch Hat<div style="text-align: center;">
Is is feeling like Autumn yet where you live? Well we got a big dose of it here this weekend. It was chilly, and the leaves are starting to change. So in the spirit of Halloween and Autumn, today I have a cute, and not so scary, witch hat project for you to complete. I actually worked on this project at a recent family craft night, we had so much fun! Here are the supplies that you will need.</div>
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A cardboard witch hat (I found mine at Michaels Craft Store)</div>
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Paint</div>
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Sponge brushes</div>
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Circle sponge brush (found at Michaels Craft Store)</div>
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Crepe paper</div>
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Halloween clip art and embellishments</div>
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Glue gun</div>
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A paper punch</div>
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The first step is to paint your witches hat. We used black paint from Plaster Paints, but you can use any black paint that you have.</div>
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While the black paint is drying you can plan out your embellishments.</div>
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I used some fringed crepe paper that I found at Target to line the base of the hat.</div>
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Then I decided it would be fun to add some polka dots to the hat, so I got out the orange paint, and dotted the hat!</div>
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Finished it off with the remainder of the embellishments that I had selected. I used vintage inspired stickers that I found at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VintageStyleandDesigns?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Vintage Style and Designs</a> along with some fun scrapbook paper, and vintage book paper. This is where you can get really creative and personalize it to your liking. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCRCQqFv6ZKdVGX-EbZtvfgC1BW8TfGk6lUZKfjN4pp_rG1PDdzFPQdlm1vbZbUMew1kVUWne-JXX1daIjHCY6p7-wrYUg6v7XxnsMOfuMyiKC41Eb040iVCavOAe4IAhXoRKHn8-FKQ/s1600/IMG_3453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCRCQqFv6ZKdVGX-EbZtvfgC1BW8TfGk6lUZKfjN4pp_rG1PDdzFPQdlm1vbZbUMew1kVUWne-JXX1daIjHCY6p7-wrYUg6v7XxnsMOfuMyiKC41Eb040iVCavOAe4IAhXoRKHn8-FKQ/s1600/IMG_3453.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is the one my aunt made for my Granny. I think she loves it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v4YwDLh0Og3qdtbYlzfRE4QO_bK8vJt1D5d9H2u5o00XoHe2aisjiu8tSYQYcHAVp9sudMQKCr2C2eGg8yk8Z9E7YyvlOsuKcnXkOtrK_RFUqgOQ-8w-ku9fTp1i_gbAW-Awe89pmBY/s1600/IMG_3456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5v4YwDLh0Og3qdtbYlzfRE4QO_bK8vJt1D5d9H2u5o00XoHe2aisjiu8tSYQYcHAVp9sudMQKCr2C2eGg8yk8Z9E7YyvlOsuKcnXkOtrK_RFUqgOQ-8w-ku9fTp1i_gbAW-Awe89pmBY/s1600/IMG_3456.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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This is a great project to get a group of friends together and get creative! I placed my hat on my Halloween mantel, on a stack of vintage books. I like the way it turned out. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAFB14Taz-CWhUpFtShHj-YR1SOoZBkHEzsaFIFij8JnaFLpADvZ8sfLuBjKT3rOufQn3oauTyPhvaEbJYGM9WKlfarSyieZO4y82CDEtO5gnwo9saAmUXHzH-Ev39ebR4AE4tcRfYMw/s1600/IMG_3489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAFB14Taz-CWhUpFtShHj-YR1SOoZBkHEzsaFIFij8JnaFLpADvZ8sfLuBjKT3rOufQn3oauTyPhvaEbJYGM9WKlfarSyieZO4y82CDEtO5gnwo9saAmUXHzH-Ev39ebR4AE4tcRfYMw/s1600/IMG_3489.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can see my completed Halloween mantel <a href="http://nestinginthebluegrass.blogspot.com/2014/09/light-up-boo-letters.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Hope you feel inspired to make a witch hat for your Halloween decorations! </div>
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Until next time...</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-28959403542628998622014-09-29T16:11:00.000-04:002014-09-29T16:11:19.299-04:00Light up BOO lettersI have another fun Halloween project for you today. I am going to show you how to create a light up BOO for your nest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Fa80uzwTZJJ10EfsbvV3qk4DDyaIQqSYrMzlM_10VvAmrASVkq23EqV8DA-EhCcwTzEn9eYfxe0-SWPflBmNcjSdETbm5G7Svo6ENUlq3hIG97i-lRMaDVe3xZRTrCBPMN8wBPOdAus/s1600/IMG_3416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Fa80uzwTZJJ10EfsbvV3qk4DDyaIQqSYrMzlM_10VvAmrASVkq23EqV8DA-EhCcwTzEn9eYfxe0-SWPflBmNcjSdETbm5G7Svo6ENUlq3hIG97i-lRMaDVe3xZRTrCBPMN8wBPOdAus/s1600/IMG_3416.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is a list of the supplies that you will need:</div>
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Cardboard letters (I found mine at Joann Craft Store)</div>
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Orange lights (Found at Michaels Craft Store)</div>
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Black paint</div>
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Paint brush</div>
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Plastic Spider (found at Michaels Craft Store)</div>
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String</div>
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Drill</div>
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Tape</div>
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Box cutter</div>
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The first step is to paint the letters. I painted them black, and decided to go with the traditional black and orange theme for Halloween.</div>
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It took two coats of the black paint.</div>
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After I allowed the paint to dry, I then cut the backs of the letters out. I did this so that it would be easier to poke the holes through, and I would have a place to hide the lights in the back.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOibcME8l2oov2mUMdy8_eZQCIRIAXgpEBBp7iNk0G8EjAHFZescA-UC-BLgqhuc0TUJoRMmMPgy07K25QV78dJt3xCWf2r0mjIspy6i64sehdY1CRlazLkVCmCtvXRAdV2xmFQH0_OQ/s1600/IMG_3407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOibcME8l2oov2mUMdy8_eZQCIRIAXgpEBBp7iNk0G8EjAHFZescA-UC-BLgqhuc0TUJoRMmMPgy07K25QV78dJt3xCWf2r0mjIspy6i64sehdY1CRlazLkVCmCtvXRAdV2xmFQH0_OQ/s1600/IMG_3407.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next, grab your drill to make the holes for the lights. I goofed and made my holes a little too big, however, I was able to fix it with a glue gun. I added a dab of glue around each hole so that the lights would sit securely. Problem solved, after sweating it out for 30 minutes ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5PDhRFw7B-kCsNHzfimSzE6zfMsuU_Reym-Y-yqzQJJha7ADqTk20kCD4PEP9T1OvJn2KOZ6yjzaoBHFB8YTeo0byE38T5gBUhaNJpaA8h1H83K2A9xrJCRIepfrv25uBJ4Q5wJFS-c/s1600/IMG_3408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5PDhRFw7B-kCsNHzfimSzE6zfMsuU_Reym-Y-yqzQJJha7ADqTk20kCD4PEP9T1OvJn2KOZ6yjzaoBHFB8YTeo0byE38T5gBUhaNJpaA8h1H83K2A9xrJCRIepfrv25uBJ4Q5wJFS-c/s1600/IMG_3408.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once you feed the lights into each hole, and make sure they sit securely in there, then you can put the extra lights and wires hidden in the back of each letter. I used 2 boxes of 50 count orange lights. The trick is to make sure that the letters sit really close together so that you don't see the string of lights in between.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PA0jeoKj5m3szIlNMtRj3l_KpeOwFPIIeN1Enhr8DGZOgc_fAHGhfRb9CX7sVsMiw2crCz7EG6QPjdciJqPOR_lRSotn8kY2liMwdPdGqCxQMQfjWnzZKSYVkD2A4sCUAW82doR11Yo/s1600/IMG_3411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PA0jeoKj5m3szIlNMtRj3l_KpeOwFPIIeN1Enhr8DGZOgc_fAHGhfRb9CX7sVsMiw2crCz7EG6QPjdciJqPOR_lRSotn8kY2liMwdPdGqCxQMQfjWnzZKSYVkD2A4sCUAW82doR11Yo/s1600/IMG_3411.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also added a spider's web to the middle O. I simply taped the twine on the back of the letter into a web pattern, and hung the spider.</div>
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There you have it! I created these same letters, on a much larger scale last year spelling out the word LOVE. You can find that blog post <a href="http://nestinginthebluegrass.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-01-08T12:56:00-05:00&max-results=4" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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So here is what my Halloween mantel looks like with the light up BOO letters. </div>
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A lot of the mantel decor I already had. I'm a big fan of using what you have, when you can. :) I purchased the banner last year at Target. They have some other great ones this year too, and if not then get out your cutting machine and make up your own! I used my handy dandy chalkboard. The inspiration for the drawing came from <a href="http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/free-halloween-chalkboard-template-with" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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I used some of my old vintage books that I collect to add some height. The owl and the trick or treat sign came from good ol' TJ Maxx a few years back. I made the cut out pumpkin with my Cameo Silhouette. Here is the <a href="http://www.silhouetteonlinestore.com/?page=view-shape&id=48570" target="_blank">pattern</a>.</div>
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I added the yarn pom poms to my banner. The shutters I've have, and they worked out to be a great place to hang some spooky spiders from. And lastly, I made the witches hat, and I have an easy tutorial coming soon, so you can make one too!</div>
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There you have it! Hope you feel inspired to add a little Halloween to your nest. Thanks for stopping by.</div>
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Until next time...</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-26767805922126714192014-09-24T08:27:00.001-04:002014-09-24T16:49:03.628-04:00Coffee Filter Halloween WreathWelcome, and I can't believe that it is officially Fall. The leaves are slowly starting to change in color, and there are pumpkins for sale everywhere. Time to start decorating your nest for the season. Today's project is a DIY wreath made out of coffee filters. I would only recommend putting this wreath on a front door that has a covered porch area over it. This wreath would also be lovely indoors too! You can even hang it from an open frame.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxCDRvN9IYRzrsbeW4Py16UYdPNAVxrR2XR272YFr0Y5m7BzCZ3mj5xX4utUgBBq_mXD3BhvtJv0D1HKOf-hWCPPkoaDiALiRbCN5A6n210KcW0oj7M19uEyhXWsnAmi3s7h_mKiWkuQ/s1600/IMG_3375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxCDRvN9IYRzrsbeW4Py16UYdPNAVxrR2XR272YFr0Y5m7BzCZ3mj5xX4utUgBBq_mXD3BhvtJv0D1HKOf-hWCPPkoaDiALiRbCN5A6n210KcW0oj7M19uEyhXWsnAmi3s7h_mKiWkuQ/s1600/IMG_3375.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
Here are the supplies that you will need for this project:<br />
Coffee filters I actually bought mine in bulk at Costco :)<br />
Vintage book pages<br />
Plastic spiders<br />
Wire wreath<br />
Glue gun<br />
Glitter<br />
Scrapbook paper<br />
Twine<br />
Washi tape<br />
Circle punch<br />
Scissors<br />
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The first step is to glue the coffee filters along the wire wreath.<br />
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I just crinkle the filters and then glue them to the wire using my glue gun. You eventually get a look like this...<br />
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Once I finished the layering of the coffee filters, I punched out the scalloped circles using my circle punch. I used vintage book paper, but you could also use scrapbook paper.<br />
I then added some Miss Mustard Seed glass glitter. I recently purchased the glass glitter from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VintageStyleandDesigns" target="_blank">Vintage Style and Designs.</a> If you have never used glass glitter before, then you are missing out. It is extra sparkly, and makes any project extra special!<br />
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You simply glue around the edges, and then sprinkle the glitter. I always sprinkle my glitter over an extra piece of paper, that way I can just pour the extra glitter that doesn't stick back into the container. Waste not, want not.<br />
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Once you have glittered the edges, you can glue the spider to the paper, and then glue the paper to your wreath.<br />
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Next I created the triangle banner. I simply cut triangle shapes out of scrapbook paper and then glued them to twine. I attached them to the back of the wreath by tying them to the wire on the back.<br />
Now time to decide what you want your wreath to say! I chose BOO, because I loved the design from my Silhouette Cameo. You can find the design <a href="http://www.silhouetteonlinestore.com/?page=view-shape&id=66669" target="_blank">here</a>. Cutting something out by hand is another option, or looking for Halloween chipboard and clip art would work as well. I accented the cut out with some wahsi tape.<br />
The final step was just adding some ribbon on the back so that I could hang it, and there you have it!<br />
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So, it's a start to getting our front porch transitioned to fall. I'll be adding some pumpkins and other spooky things the closer we get to Halloween. Hope you feel inspired to make this wreath. I think it will be a great addition to your nest this Fall.</div>
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Until next time....</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
<br />Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-74191477915760992612014-09-14T17:04:00.000-04:002014-09-21T07:30:22.294-04:00Polka Dot PumpkinIt's not officially Fall yet, but now is the perfect time to start working on those fall craft projects, and start decorating your home. I have several projects that I will be sharing with you this Fall. They are all easy DIY craft projects. The first project is a burlap polka pumpkin that I created. You can first watch the easy video tutorial posted on <a href="http://www.wlky.com/entertainment/crafting-with-gretchen-burlap-polka-pumpkin/28124500" target="_blank">WLKY</a>, and then follow along with these easy steps. :)<br />
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Here are the supplies you will need for this project:<br />
Burlap<br />
Wooden loom (I found mine at Michaels Craft Store)<br />
Black felt<br />
Orange thread<br />
Needle<br />
Scissors<br />
Orange crepe paper<br />
Orange craft paint<br />
A sponge brush in a circle shape (I also found this at Michaels Craft Store)<br />
Scrapbook paper<br />
Tickets (Found at a party supply store)<br />
Double sided tape, and glue<br />
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The first step is to take the burlap and secure it in the wooden loom.<br />
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One you have it secured, you will add the orange polka dots simply by using the circle sponge and paint.<br />
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Next I added the face for my pumpkin. I chose a traditional face, but you can get as creative as you want and personalize your pumpkin's face. I cut the pieces of the face out of black felt.</div>
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I glued the felt pieces on to secure them to the burlap.</div>
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I then added a stem. I cut a simple stem design out of scrapbook paper, and left it to be further embellished later. I wanted to add a little more detail to the face, so I used some orange thread and completed a simple stitch detail around the eyes, nose, and mouth.<br />
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Once I finished that, I trimmed all the excess burlap from around the loom.</div>
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I thought the stem needed a little more embellishment so I added a few more pieces just for fun. I love using these old tickets I found antiquing, but you can use any tickets or ribbons you want.</div>
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The last step is to add the crepe paper border. For this step you will use the double sided tape, and work in 3 to 4 inch strips. I applied the tape, then carefully pleated the crepe paper along the tape.<br />
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Once you have made your way around the loom, then you can go around and trim the crepe paper.</div>
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And voila' you are finished!</div>
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You can hang this pumpkin on your front door, or a wall in your home. I think it would be really great to hang in from an open frame and put it on your mantel. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by, looking forward to showing you more fall projects soon!</div>
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Until next time, XO~Gretchen</div>
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<br />Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-43858966452355123762014-08-10T23:26:00.001-04:002014-08-14T17:13:26.417-04:00 DIY Storage Jars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't believe that it is already that time of year again, but back to school time is here. Ready or not, here they go! Time for new school supplies, and getting organized for the new school year. Today I have an easy DIY project for you, all you need is a few supplies to be able to make these easy storage mason jars. Here is the list of items.<br />
1. Mason jars, I prefer the clear ones.<br />
2. Paint and brushes<br />
3. Scrapbook paper, as an option<br />
4. Glue gun<br />
5. Double sided tape<br />
6. Plastic animals, as an option. These can be found at a craft supply store.<br />
7. Yarn, and a pom pom maker. Found mine at Michaels Craft Store<br />
8. Scissors and pencil<br />
9. Scrabble letters, as an option. I found these at a Joann craft store.<br />
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First you need to decide what you want your topper to look like. I gave three different options. You can paint the top any color of your choice. I made mine to go in my studio space, so I chose to paint one, aqua, and one pink. I just used acrylic paint, and it took several coats of paint. I allowed the paint to dry between each coat. You could also spray paint the tops. I also painted the plastic animal in a contrasting color with the acrylic paint.<br />
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Another option is to cover the flat part of the top with scrapbook paper. This is very easy to do. You just select your favorite scrapbook paper. Then trace the circle, and cut it out. I used double sided tape to secure the paper on. Once finished, I then glued one of the scrabble letters to the top. This is a great way to personalize the jar.<br />
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The last option for a topper is making a cute little yarn pom pom. This is a fun option, and you can customize it with some fun colors. I found my pom pom maker at Michaels Craft Store. I use it for all different kinds of craft projects. It comes in really handy if you are making a pom pom garland. You simply make the pom pom, and then glue it to your top.<br />
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There you have it. Three different options for toppers for your storage jars. These are really easy to create, and are a great option to have to help get you organized for back to school. I will be making more of these and putting extra school supplies in them. I like having extra glue sticks, scissors, pencils, and crayons around. I also think you could create these jars and give them as teacher's gifts. You could fill it with extra desk supplies, or maybe even a gift card and treats. You can find an easy video tutorial over on the <a href="http://www.wlky.com/entertainment/crafting-with-gretchen-diy-storage-jar/27407668#!bDyz6Y" target="_blank">WLKY</a> TV's Entertainment page. I will be sharing easy crafting tutorials on their website from time to time, and I am so grateful for this opportunity.<br />
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Wishing you a great start to the school year. Hope you feel inspired to get creative and organized. Thanks for stopping by. Until next time,<br />
XO~GretchenGretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-31116985166896470912014-07-29T11:16:00.000-04:002014-07-29T12:07:40.980-04:00Quilting Chronicles Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So here is an update on my quilt progress as promised. I've been working on it, when I get some free time. My first goal was to have all the hex pieces sewn together by my birthday. Happy to say that I achieved that goal, with a couple of days to spare. </div>
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I did make a little change to my original quilt design, I switched out one of the fabrics. I decided that the fabric with the red and pink, although gorgeous, was just standing out too much for my taste. Sometimes you just don't know until you actually start sewing the pieces together. Luckily, I was not too far along, and was able to rip it out easily, using my handy dandy ripper. By the way, the ripper and I got to be really good friends during this process. ;) So I found two yellow fabrics that I loved and decided to incorporate them into the quilt design.</div>
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I think these patterns are more subtle, and complimented the other fabrics nicely. I am happy that I switched out the red for the yellow.</div>
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So once I got all the hex pieces sewn together then I had to cut and sew the border. This part was pretty straight forward, and pretty easy to do. I chose the blue damask fabric, it's one of my favorite patterns in the quilt. </div>
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So now you have a pretty good idea of how the finished product will look. I'm really happy with all the fabric choices, and I think it will be a perfect addition to our guest room. </div>
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After I finished all that, I then had to make a decision about what I was going to back the quilt in. My mom had a great suggestion. She suggested that I use a queen size flat sheet as the backing. I thought this was a wonderful idea, because it would save me money, and time. If I decided to back it in cut fabric, then I would have had to sew the fabric in pieces to match the size of the back of the quilt. Since I purchased a sheet set, I will be able to use the flat sheet for the back of the quilt, and the fitted sheet along with the pillow cases for the bed. I think this is a great tip!</div>
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Next I purchased a queen size quilter's batting. The batting is used to go in between your top quilt layer, and your bottom quilt layer. It's what gives your quilt weight and warmth. I found my batting already cut to size at Joann Fabrics. </div>
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The next step is probably my least favorite part of this whole process, ironing. I know that it is necessary for a beautifully finished product, but I do not enjoy it. I had to iron the flat sheet too, geez.</div>
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A tip I learned about ironing your quilted pieces, is that you don't push the iron back and forth, you actually continually pick the iron up and put it down. </div>
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Once everything was ironed, I had to layer all three pieces on top of one another. Then, I was ready to safety pin all three layers together. </div>
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I securely pinned the safety pins along each of the four sides. I used 36 large safety pin to achieve this. The reason that you do this, is so that when you start hand sewing your three layers together, you won't have a big shift in the fabric alignment. </div>
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There you have it, an update on my quilt. I am going to be hand sewing each hexagon. I think this process is going to take a while, but I do love the look of a hand sewn quilt. I will be starting the sewing in the center and then working my way out. Once I am finished I will be adding the quilt binding, which is going to be the polka dot fabric. </div>
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Here are my tips I have learned so far, that I am passing on to you.</div>
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1. Always iron your material, it's tedious, but so worth it.</div>
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2. Keep your ripper close by, you will probably make a mistake or two, or three...</div>
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3. Go with your gut, if you don't love a fabric, then find something else. Better to change the design early on, then work hard on something and not love the end result.</div>
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4. If you are making a twin, queen, or king quilt, think about using a coordinating flat sheet as the back. I think it's a great option.</div>
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5. Don't be too hard on yourself, nothing hand made it perfect. </div>
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Thanks for stopping by. Hope you are having a wonderful summer!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-91323357575036650802014-07-24T00:01:00.000-04:002014-07-29T11:37:10.884-04:00Wish for my 39th Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So yep, today is my birthday! It's official I am 39. One year closer to the big 4-0. It seems like 39 is the holding steady birthday. I can remember when I was young I would always ask my Papa how old he was, and he would always say, "well I am 39." Now when I was younger I wouldn't think a thing about that, because, let's be honest, 39 seems really old to a young child. Eventually I caught on, when we kept celebrating his "39th" birthday. My Papa was as smart as a whip, and young at heart, and now looking back I think he was on to something. So here I sit, officially 39 today. Yikes, how did it all go by so fast? Seems like just yesterday I was turning 30.<br />
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One of my biggest regrets in life is that I haven't journaled enough. I wish that I would have taken the time, to write down a little something each week, about what was going on in my life. You know, you always think you will remember everything, and you might, but after you are gone, then who will remember? So this is the year I start journaling. Better late than never, right? And part of the journaling will be blogging more consistently. I love the idea of having my little blog to journal events in my life. It's amazing to think that some day when I am 80, I will be able to look back at the craft projects I completed, or the rooms I designed, or the trend of the season. It will all be here, saved in the archives of my blog. That being said, I am going to make it a point to journal a blog post every year on my birthday, talking about what my wishes are for that year, and looking back on things I am proud of accomplishing during the previous year. You can move along if you are bored, because really I am just writing this post for my kids, and future grandkids some day ;) But feel free to read along if you want. This may inspire you to start journaling more too! I'd love to see more of my friends start to blog. Hint, hint!<br />
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One of my favorite things that I accomplished this year, and last, was becoming a published contributor for<a href="http://gatheringsmag.com/summer-2014-is-here/" target="_blank"> Gatherings Magazine</a>. Never in my wildest dream twenty years ago, as a nursing school student, did I think I would be a contributor for a magazine. Funny how life takes you on winds and turns. But I have found a passion, and I hope that I get to continue to pursue it! My latest article is my favorite. I was able to style and photograph a bridal shower hosted right on my very own front porch, with some of my favorite people. :) Here is my favorite photo from the article. I think it captures just about all my favorite things. I love designing and decorating tablescapes. I adore crafting and creating, and I made the chandelier, along with their headpieces. I have so much fun styling photo shoots, and creating pretty scenes. My goal in this 39th year is to have more styled shoots and submit the images and story to other magazines. I'd love to contribute a feature to Southern Living Magazine, or perhaps another favorite Mingle Magazine. I will continue to work towards that goal, and try to come up with inspiring ideas to share with you. Maybe someday I'll even get to write a design book. A girl can dream. :)<br />
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Another exciting thing that happened during my 38th year was being featured on both Anthropologie's IG feed and their blog. I was one of their top holiday looks. Seriously I was floored by this. Funny how social media can connect people, and a simple hashtag can get you noticed. Here is the photo they used...#OMG<br />
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The stockings were from Anthropologie, so that's why I tagged them in the photo.<br />
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I've also been crafting a lot more this year, and creating things a little out of my comfort zone. For example, I just started making a quilt for my guest bedroom. My mom quilts, along with my aunts, and I have a friend Melissa from <a href="http://www.polkadotchair.com/" target="_blank">The Polka Dot Chair</a>, who makes beautiful quilts, so I felt inspired by them all to make one. And of course I didn't select a small little throw to start with, I picked a queen size hexagon quilt! Go big, or go home, right? I started journaling about that too. You can find an update <a href="http://nestinginthebluegrass.blogspot.com/2014/07/my-quilting-chronicles.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Maybe it will finished by my 40th ;) I learned how to sew in a zipper, yep, check that off the bucket list. Thanks Melissa :) I have been painting, crafting with paper, making tissue garlands, and yarn pom, poms. I've even tried to coordinate family craft nights with some of my cousins, aunts, mom, and granny. We have created fun projects for easter, valentines, and fourth of July. I better start thinking about a Halloween project. Looking forward to trying new creative ideas this year too!<br />
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Something I am most proud of heading into my 39th year are my boys. I became a mom, when most people are picking their major and trying to transition from those teenage years to becoming a full fledged adult. Well nothing makes you grow up faster than becoming a parent. Austin is the blessing that I never new I prayed for. Luckily God saw it fitting to bless me with two more wonderful boys. Now if you would have told my girly 13 year old self that I was going to be a mom of 3 boys, I would have said, oh my no way! But guess what, God gives us exactly what we are suppose to have, and I could not be more thankful for my boys.<br />
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They are a big reason I am writing this post, because I want them to be able to look back and remember things about their mom. I even went as far as asking Noah and Max to take some photos of me. Because as we all know, us mom's are never in any photos, we are always behind the camera ;) A friend and I just had a conversation about this. She is never in any photos either.<br />
So here I am going into my 39th year ombre' hair and all. Wearing in one photo my favorite pair of torn and worn shorts, and an Anthropolgie top. Max and my dad always make comments about these shorts. They can't understand why I would buy a pair of shorts with holes and tears in them. Maybe looking back 20 years from now, I will question the whole look too, including the ombre' hair. I mean I did rock some huge hair in the 90's which I loved, but looking back, it was really bad.<br />
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And I wanted to remember these fun girly headbands that I made, and my favorite Lulubelles necklace....And I want to show that I like to dress up too. I am always torn between a boho chic girl, and a girly girl. </div>
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Five things I want to strive for in my 39th year....<br />
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I want to become a more spiritual person and a better Christian</div>
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I want to find what my real calling is in this life, you know, figure out what I want to be when I grow up.</div>
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I want to learn to follow my intuition, which may help me to find my calling.</div>
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I want to journal more about this crazy life I've been blessed with.</div>
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Lastly, I want to look back at my 39th year as my best year yet, and feel at peace as I head into the big 4-0!</div>
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And my birthday wish for all of you is that...</div>
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THE BEST IS YET TO COME!</div>
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I found this quote via an <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/89299468/heart-and-intuition-14-x-11-canvas-print?ref=exp_listing" target="_blank">etsy</a> shop. Thanks for reading along, many blessings to you!<br />
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XO~Gretchen</div>
<br />Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-35522750107263107152014-07-07T14:12:00.001-04:002014-07-07T14:12:36.541-04:00My Quilting ChroniclesI am one of those creative people who constantly feels inspired by different projects that I see around me, whether it be on Pinterest, or another blog, or my own family. My mom and my aunts have been quilting for a while now, but I just started to jump on the bandwagon. I love the craftsmanship that goes into making a quilt, and all the beautiful patterns from the fabrics. The task seems a bit overwhelming, but luckily I have experts to rely on. I can already tell that my favorite part of the quilt making process is selecting the fabric. Seriously, there are so many beautiful fabric lines out there. I am quite smitten with the new <a href="http://www.sisboom.com/blog/" target="_blank">Jennifer Paganelli</a> line at <a href="http://www.joann.com/search?q=Jennifer%20Panganelli" target="_blank">Joann Fabrics</a>. It was released on June 30th, and I was lucky enough to be able to snag some over the holiday weekend. This line of fabric inspired me to get started on my quilt. So here are the fabrics that I am using, not all are from the Jenny Eliza line, some are from Joann's own line, and one is from another favorite fabric designer named <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/mainmenu.php" target="_blank">Amy Butler</a>. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is the pattern that I am planning on following....</div>
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I love the hex pattern, and I also love when there is white in a quilt. I feel like the other fabrics pop against the white. I chose a pretty little swiss dot print for my white fabric. </div>
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Here is the book I purchased from Joann's with the quilt pattern.</div>
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So there you have it, the fabrics that I have chosen, and the pattern that I am using. I hope it turns out as good in person, as I visualize it my head ;) I will be updated my progress as I go along. I'd love for you to leave me any helpful tips about quilting in the comments. You can also follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/gretchenblack" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, I'll be posting updates on there too! Wish me luck, I am excited about this new project. I actually have cut out all the patterned pieces, all 78 of them. </div>
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XO~Gretchen</div>
Gretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8727166145880655728.post-44468732651528274982014-06-02T15:58:00.001-04:002014-06-02T20:12:08.542-04:00Artwork for my BoysSo I have been working on creating some artwork for each of my three boys. I love the idea of each of them having something special that I made for them. I am sentimental like that, especially when it comes to my boys. This project was pretty easy to tackle. I was able to finish it in less than two hours. The supplies you will need are as follows:<br />
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Art paper</div>
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Paint</div>
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Paint brushes</div>
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Sponge brush to apply mod podge</div>
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Decoupage</div>
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Scrap book paper</div>
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Frame</div>
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Pencil</div>
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Scissors</div>
The first thing that I did was to cut out triangles, to look like mountains, out of Martha Stewart map craft paper.<br />
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I then mod podged the map paper on my white art paper. I always apply the mod podge generously to the back of the paper. Then lay it down, and apply the mod podge over top, trying to work out all the bubbles. </div>
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Next I traced a circle out of a vintage piece of book paper that I had. You could use whatever paper you want, I just felt this worked well, especially since my son is an avid reader. </div>
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I used my Anthropologie candle topper as my guide to trace around. It was the perfect size. </div>
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I also mod podged it on to the art paper. I ended up white washing over top of the book paper so that my words would be more pronounced, and show up better. White washing is simply a technique where you water down your paint, so that you get a washed out look. </div>
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Once all the mod podge dried I hand scripted the saying "Let him sleep for when he wakes, he will move mountains" I really love this quote, and find it so meaningful. I truly believe that all three of my boys have the ability to move mountains, whether it be that they are working in research to help figure out why certain diseases affect certain people, being creative, or bringing a smile to someone's face. My oldest is currently working on research at a local university that looks at how MRI/CAT scans can help diagnose certain diseases which can affect our brain. My middle son, is so smart and creative, I can only imagine what he will do with his talent one day. And my youngest has the capability to make us laugh and bring a smile to our face at any given moment. He has had a special twinkle in his eyes since the day he was born. :)</div>
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Sorry, back to the project, I could go on and on about my boys.</div>
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Here is what it looked like after I hand wrote the quote.</div>
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I painted the tops of the mountains with white, so they would appear snow capped.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzL8j81N15sW6fVQwM4r5oaDKXGS3HybDdsuxnEkVQAYFZ7F6Ht5SJVSMCIEi98uqdwi3sTD1hke1bbtM_84qVizq2lW6aaalLAw6QJPwcAwA5DPZJ9zxC2yGxX7VDoVE-nKvCzTt8oA/s1600/IMG_2623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzL8j81N15sW6fVQwM4r5oaDKXGS3HybDdsuxnEkVQAYFZ7F6Ht5SJVSMCIEi98uqdwi3sTD1hke1bbtM_84qVizq2lW6aaalLAw6QJPwcAwA5DPZJ9zxC2yGxX7VDoVE-nKvCzTt8oA/s1600/IMG_2623.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Next I added in some clouds with a pale grayish aqua paint, just to add another layer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5Duz4Ny4tgUPXm5A7xZQENL_OoKJk1JSfAKxHCSu8W0pcX-GtRAPyNhBy0AL7bgQbFy7FyeDjY8pVhac7cfmyC_VC6ozh7IXooKzPeEc4aCy_wTwTWgNfRPQ639UujaqZRAOX_UFhoU/s1600/IMG_2627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5Duz4Ny4tgUPXm5A7xZQENL_OoKJk1JSfAKxHCSu8W0pcX-GtRAPyNhBy0AL7bgQbFy7FyeDjY8pVhac7cfmyC_VC6ozh7IXooKzPeEc4aCy_wTwTWgNfRPQ639UujaqZRAOX_UFhoU/s1600/IMG_2627.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Then I used a dark gray paint to go over my lettering. By writing it with the pencil first, it makes it so much easier to go back over, because once you paint it, it's permanent. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZEu2fetsFw_77tCB6YK-blnxUG2WZb1z1hZjyI5OVzUdglsfnWjcXdw0zgfRJI2P0-7pXMhZ_uZ8ezrNDUWSF3Tcou13LJOUyz7cfkvDu_oTFG1OO_7ZkFkFaVr_E0cliRo5LLtC-Qk/s1600/IMG_2628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZEu2fetsFw_77tCB6YK-blnxUG2WZb1z1hZjyI5OVzUdglsfnWjcXdw0zgfRJI2P0-7pXMhZ_uZ8ezrNDUWSF3Tcou13LJOUyz7cfkvDu_oTFG1OO_7ZkFkFaVr_E0cliRo5LLtC-Qk/s1600/IMG_2628.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUbdEjzQ9Agewb5OEW9eHMujDexgu9c7zbcuIn8l8ex_rihKhBZmxjxNTQBChRlflJpwBLIeyzwprjzyQ-CV7f5d7Jlhw6QgZFafJLhPOLWvfp1OANZMKgCD8grm1aAJggOvXxN_rTe4/s1600/IMG_2640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUbdEjzQ9Agewb5OEW9eHMujDexgu9c7zbcuIn8l8ex_rihKhBZmxjxNTQBChRlflJpwBLIeyzwprjzyQ-CV7f5d7Jlhw6QgZFafJLhPOLWvfp1OANZMKgCD8grm1aAJggOvXxN_rTe4/s1600/IMG_2640.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Here is the finished artwork framed. I'm happy with the way it turned out. It's not about creating the perfect piece, it's about creating something meaningful.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglezrvmnkeph8MaZ70KMS62EQxdyRCsteVkorE3IkPNhWLVltqYp0SX8lZafZ3tFPfjH9rMcl2hW2ntctu5OQn_UlEgdU0i4l2xn_AViYCCDg-EWu7ThxFkHMEP8-x9-VOhb21AkLOuHo/s1600/IMG_2645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglezrvmnkeph8MaZ70KMS62EQxdyRCsteVkorE3IkPNhWLVltqYp0SX8lZafZ3tFPfjH9rMcl2hW2ntctu5OQn_UlEgdU0i4l2xn_AViYCCDg-EWu7ThxFkHMEP8-x9-VOhb21AkLOuHo/s1600/IMG_2645.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></div>
With summer vacay just around the corner, I hope you feel inspired to create something with your kids. This is totally a kid friendly project. Make sure they are working both sides of their brain this summer. Have them work on reading, math, and incorporate some art!<br />
Thanks for stopping by, until next time...<br />
XO~GretchenGretchen Blackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12792168409153125871noreply@blogger.com0