Botanical Prints

If you've been following my blog, you know that a typical day for me will include some crafting. The process calms me when things are getting too hectic, yet energizes me at the same time because it's a fulfilling task.

Here's a simple craft using everyday blah materials: blank sticker labels, a stamp pad and rubber stamps.

I got these botanical print stamps at the clearance bin {TADA!}. The backs are sticky and are to be attached to this clear block. 

Apply a generous amount of ink. 

 Position on the sticker label, press down firmly.

Play around with the location of the design. 

TADA! Labels with character to dress up any package.

The Vegetable Garden

One of the reasons I love Anthropologie is their spectacular window displays. They're well thought of, beautifully produced and promote re-purposing...blah to TADA! for sure.

Below are photos of their Earth Day windows in Rockefeller Center, the theme being "fresh produce".

Check out this behind the scenes video to see the display team in action, and if you'd like to make your own root veggies, find the DIY instructions here.

Sun Prints

Yesterday, we took a little trip to Terrain. One of the things I picked up was this exciting Sunprint Kit:

This kit plus sun and water allows us to make photographic-type prints.

I tried it out with some wilted leaves that remind me of seaweed.

I followed the pack instructions: layer cardboard, Sunprint paper {blue side up}, chosen item and an acrylic sheet.

My kit did not include an acrylic sheet {tsk, tsk!}. I improvised with a glass sheet borrowed from a picture frame.  I put this under the sun until the paper turned white {about one to five minutes}, making sure not to overexpose it.

 I peeled off the leaves and here is my photo image...TADA!

Rinse the paper in water for about one minute. 

 Remove from the water and dry flat.

My first attempt at making sun prints and I am hooked!

For more inspiration, check out this gallery.

Terrain

Happy new week! I'd like to tell you about a most beautiful store. It's called Terrain. Once I stepped inside, I never wanted to leave. Let me show you why:

 I visited the Connecticut shop. 

There's a branch in Pennsylvania, too.

As you can see, Terrain is all about gardening, gifts, entertaining, and finding a little something to treat yourself. The company that owns Anthropologie also owns Terrain, so it's no surprise that the design and merchandise bundle into one delightful shopping experience.  

In between shopping, take a break.  

There's a cafe on the premises...

 ...as well as a restaurant.

I can't wait to return!

Dad's Day is Today

“Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father.” 

― Lydia Maria Francis Child

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies out there!

For Father's Day

Before we jump into the weekend, another blah to TADA! transformation for all the bill envelopes that pile up on our desk.

On the outside, it's blah and boring.

But inside, it's a party...TADA!

Similar to yesterday's craft, I'm making another greeting card.

This one's for my dad -- it's Father's Day on Sunday.

I painted on some hearts...because for most little girls, daddy is the first man you love.

I felt like a five year old making a card for my dad. I could easily buy him a fancy one with all the bells and whistles. But this "recycling thing" has my hand stamp all over it. My dad taught me how not to waste anything and he still loves sending me snail mail. I think it's a perfect fit.

For my Papa and for all the dads out there -- Happy, 

Happy Father's Day! 

Have a glorious weekend, folks!

Give Me an "A"

Here's another way to turn your bill envelopes from blah to TADA!

First, you have to check if the inside of the envelope is printed. If you've amassed a number of envelopes, then there will be a variety of options. Cut the sides and spread it open. Use it as you would printed or scrapbook paper.

I'll make a personalized card by drawing and cutting out an initial -- a letter "A". 

Glue it on card stock. 

Then paint on some flowers...instantly, a greeting card 

ready to be mailed. TADA!