Throwback Thursday: January 25, 2010

How owl you? Well, I'm doing just fine. Let's take a little trip down memory lane.

It was January and I'd been working on my crafting skills for a bit. Goodness, it's hard to know when, why, and how it all began - Except that it started with scrapbooking. I will have to share my earlier works one of these days! It can be quite a hoot - wink, wink - to see versions of one's earlier works.

Anyhow, I created a set of tags, listed them and they sold within a month. Woop, woop! Are you out there, oh, person who bought my very first set of tags? Or the person who received one from them? That would be awesome :)

{ How To: Easy, Peasy Tags }

- - Supplies Needed - -

Cardstock

Glue

Hole Punch

Embroidery Thread

Stamps

Ink Pad

Sandpaper

1. For each tag, cut two circles from cardstock. (I used a circle punch for speed and consistency.)

2. Stamp images on each circle. I got this look by using a single acrylic block with two different clear stamps on it. Allow ink to dry completely.

3. Glue two circles (unstamped sides) together. This makes them much sturdier. Sand the edges for added interest.

4. Punch a hole in one side, then loop string through it.

As you can see, I used an extra tag to make a special card that I included in the order. Check out the layout below, so you can create your own using one of your handmade tag.

Card Layout #001

If you take me up on my offer, share your creations - I'd love to see it!

With blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

Going To Grandma's House

For a time, I was thoroughly involved in the craft challenge world. This is a place full of creativity for cardmakers and scrapbookers. You shared your stuff, they share theirs and you enjoyed the opportunity to win a prize. (I'm happy to say I won a few here and there!)

While living in this world, I came across Grandma Bonnie, a lovely woman who creates wonderful works with plenty of details to enjoy. Below is just a sampling of why I follow her.

Garden Girl Tag by Grandma Bonnie

According to Grandma Bonnie, she "loves to craft, cards, scrapbook pages, sew." And you can definitely see that in her projects.

Tire Swing Card by Grandma Bonnie

She is a crafter's crafter. She explains what she does in simple, easy terms, including sharing the colors that she uses for the digital images.

Red, White & Blue Birthday Card by Grandma Bonnie

I invite you to stop by her blog, leave a comment, and share in her crafty world. It's fun, cute and reminds one that it's better to send a card than an email.

With blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

Part Of The Family

If you have a dog, you know this is true: The dog is a part of the family.

AND the dog is not a dog. The dog is a people :)

Digital Scrapbook Layout by me!

With blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

Craft It Up with Pin & Tack: Arts & Crafts Challenge #3 - Hearts

It's February - WOWZERS! This year is moving quickly, but there's always time to craft.

So, let's not waste a moment and get to the details . . .

{Anything Goes with Heart}

To join in the challenge, your craft must include a heart or the word "love." Simple enough, right?

Well, I hope so since Valentine's Day is just around the corner ;)

This challenge ends on Friday, February 14th at 11:55 PM.
Winner will be announced no later than the following Wednesday.

{Inspiration}

{Just Peach Pink Diamond Magnets by Pin & Tack}

{Digital Scrapbook using FREE papers from Jennifer Scraps}

{Prizes}

A big ol' MYSTERY grab bag of craft goodies: die cuts, embellishments, papers & more.

You will have a lot to work with for your next craft project. I promise that you will love it.

{Charity}

For every entry, $0.10 (up to $50 total) will be donated to Animal Place, who provides refuge and permanent sanctuary to 100s of neglected farm animals.

Share this challenge with as many people as you can, so they will receive the full amount! You can also donate directly at the link above.

{ The How To . . . }

1. Your project must be new & handmade by you or your child.

2. Display this project on your blog or online gallery, adding a direct link to the blog post in the linky list below.

3. Include a link to Craft It Up with Pin & Tack using http://pinandtack.blogspot.com in your blog post.

4. Be inspired, create and have fun with this challenge. It’s the most important rule of all 

(NOTE: You can enter up to FIVE times as long as it’s a new and different project. Rules must be followed; Otherwise, your entry will be deleted without notification. If you have any questions, please send an email to pinandtack@gmail.com)

4 DIY Fashion Tricks For Sneakers

When your everyday sneakers start to get boring (or show a bit of wear), you can easily change them up in fun & fashionable ways. Elastic strips, paint, studs (or rhinestones), and glitter make them unique footwear. And they are all easy to do.

Have you upcycled your sneaks? Leave a comment & share your photo. I'd love to see your style!

(DIY Tutorials, Clockwise: 1. Elastic, 2. Painted, 3. Studded, 4. Glittered.)

You also have another option, especially if you are not such a crafty individual. You can donate the shoes (only if they are in good condition, please) that you no longer need to several organizations that help those in need:

- Soles 4 Souls is global non-profit dedicated to fighting the devastating impact of poverty through donating used/new shoes & clothing along with funds.

- Donate Your Old Shoes has a simple mission: "Put shoes on the shoeless world" because their are many people walking barefoot due to lack of resources.

And, of course, once you donate your shoes, you may just need new ones, right? Support an individual  by buying handmade.

(Source, Clockwise: 1. Embroidered Espadrilles, 2. Crochet Sandals, 3. Solstice Flats, 4. Mary Janes.)

What type of shoes do you wear? I'm like Mr. Rogers. A pair for different parts of my day. Crocs for inside of my house - Lots of wood floors, so they give my feet cushioning. Sneakers for daytime. Feminine heels & flats for fancier occasions. You get the idea. What are your favorites?

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

It's A Win-Win For Two Of Ya! (Arts & Craft Challenge #2 WINNERS)

Thank you, peeps, for sharing your craftiness for Craft It Up with Pin & Tack.

This challenge was also sponsoring Dogs For The Deaf, who will receive an extra donation along with $1 from every listing sold at the shops in January. Your crafty entries will make a difference for dogs & people!

And now, for the moment I believe you've been waiting for . . . the WINNERS!

Note: Winners are chosen by random using random.org

#1 La-Vie B.

#5 abusybee

Congrats, ladies! To claim your prize, please send your shipping address to pinandtack@gmail.com and I will get your Sapphire Thumb Tacks shipped as soon as possible.

A new challenge will begin on February 1st, so rest up as I hope to see you all again ;)

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn 

Enjoy A Bit Of Crazy Happiness!

I was crazy happy when I found, well, Crazie Happy - Ha!

This shop offers a unique twist on mozaics. Instead of tile, it's pieces of clay.

Bold colors, outstanding patterns and just so fun that I had to share with you!

(Source, Clockwise: 1. Aladdin's Lamp, 2. Incense Holder, 3. Tea Pot, 4. Bowl, 5. Wall Hanging, 6. Cookie Jar.)

"Making things with my hands has become a defining characteristic of who I am.

I usually bring clay with me on vacations.

My passion (or obsession, actually both) is a fire that has not died down or even slowed down.

It satisfies me and gives me pleasure to a degree that is almost unexplainable."

- Lydia Ruark of Crazie Happy

Did you enjoy her work as much as me? Are you a clay artist or crafter? Share your own joy with us!

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

You've Got . . . Something FREE Coming Your Way?

On a regular basis, I share something free on Pin & Tack Delights (FB page.)

One of my favorite places to find freebies for crafting is JenniferScraps.

She creates digital scrapbook papers that perfectly wonderful.

The above graphic was created using papers from her Summers End collection.

She is a very generous soul and you will find free digital supplies at a steady pace.

Follow her blog, like her Facebook & let her know how fantastic she is!

'Cause we all know that there is nothing like getting something for free.

(And we want her to keep doing it, right?)

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

PS - You are welcome to share the photo above as long as you do not alter it in anyway. Thank you!

Craft It Up with Pin & Tack: Arts & Crafts Challenge #2

Welcome! Are you ready for the new year? Well, you better be as it has arrived! To start it off, let’s be creative.

{ Challenge: Anything Goes with Sparkle }

To join in, create any art &/or craft project with “sparkle.” Examples of sparkle include glitter, rhinestones, or shiny metal.

Picking Sparkling Toadstools Mixed Media Minuature

This challenge ends on Tuesday, January 14th at 11:59 PM PST. Winner will be announced no later than Saturday, January 18th. (Note: Craft It Up with Pin & Tack runs from the 1st - 14th of each month.)

{ Prizes }

Two crafters will win a set of handcrafted Sapphire Thumb Tacks by me. These rhinestones are a deep blue that will sparkle up your cork board.

{ Charity }

For every entry, $0.10 (up to $50 total) will be donated to Dogs For The Deaf, who rescues & professionally trains dogs to assist people, enhancing their lives & provide greater independence.

Share this challenge with as many people as you can, so they will receive the full amount! You can also donate directly at the link above.

{ The How To . . . }

1. Your project must be new & handmade by you or your child.

2. Display this project on your blog or online gallery, adding a direct link to the blog post in the linky list below.

3. Include a link to Craft It Up with Pin & Tack using http://pinandtack.blogspot.com in your blog post.

4. Be inspired, create and have fun with this challenge. It’s the most important rule of all 

(NOTE: You can enter up to FIVE times as long as it’s a new and different project. Rules must be followed; Otherwise, your entry will be deleted without notification. If you have any questions, please send an email to pinandtack@gmail.com)

Send Card Not Email . . .

I am a BIG supporter of all things handmade. This includes cards.

It's always a thrill to open your mailbox and see that someone sent you a greeting.

When you pull out that handmade card, it's magic!

Karen of My Cup Runneth Over

Every day on Pin & Tack Delights (Facebook), I feature a handmade card.

These are created by others. Some sell their art and others just enjoy sharing them.

Either way, you will be motivated to send a handmade greeting. I just know it!

Lily Kate

If you would like to be featured, please send me an email at pinandtack@gmail.com or leave a comment with the link to your blog. I am always on the lookout for new cards to share!

(NOTE: I only share cards made by individuals. I do not post printed/manufactured cards even if they are from your original artwork or photography.)

I invite you to check out what has been shared already at the Send Card Not Email album.

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

4 Ways To Use Clothes Pins Creatively In Your Home

While they were originally used to hang clothes to dry, that is no longer their main purpose. Now, they offer functionality in other ways along with creating aesthetically pleasing decoration.

Blaine Collection - Plum Distressed Clothes Pins Variety

My clothes pins are painted by hand, distressed, glittered (if preferred) and sealed. What you do with them after that is completely up to your own imagination! However, I am happy to give you a few ideas for using them in creative ways . . .

(Source, Clockwise: 1. Votive Candleholders, 2. Photo Frame, 3. Tea Towel Hanger, 4. Heart Wreath.) 

How have you used your clothes pins? I'm oh, so delighted to see what you've done with yours. And you may just receive a discount if your photo displays my clothes pins in wonderful way!

Cream In My Coffee Collection - Cream Distressed Clothes Pins Variety

Blessings & joy, yours truly . . . Corrinne Quinn

Arts & Crafts Challenge #1: Craft It Up With Pin & Tack

Blog has moved and a new challenge has begun.

Create a craft project, share it and you could win fabulous prizes!

Join the craft challenge at Pin & Tack.

7 Reasons Why Rain Clouds Don't Bring Me Down

Rain clouds used to be sad, but crafters & artist have changed this perception.

They bring such a bit of joy and the real ones give you an excuse to get out of yard work.

Rainy Day Earrings, petite Vanilla

Flood Rain Cloud Print, Golly Bard

Rain Cloud Journal, Ordinary Artists

Gray Rain Cloud Emroidered Hoop, Hey Abby

Rain Cloud Shot Glass, Villareal Ceramics

Rain Cloud Mobile, Lullaby Mobiles

Rain Clouds Necklace, Katheyl

4 Reasons You Should Join This Christmas Throwdown

Do you make your own Christmas cards? Then this is for you!

Theme Challenge entry by Kylie

52 {Christmas} Card Throwdown offers a new card challenge every week.

1. They will inspire you to create a card every week with different challenges.

You'll discover sketches, color schemes, theme or recipes and embellishment or techniques.

Color Challenge entry by Judy V

2. If you follow along, you won't wait until the last minute. Less stress - just what we all need.

Sketch Challenge by Deborah, Design Team Member

3. You'll also have unique, personalized Christmas cards for your family and friends.

Not everyone will be the same because the theme is different.

Technique Challenge by Ruth, Design Team Member

4. Sharing your card = possible prize. Who doesn't like winning a free gift?

Recipe Challenge entry by Regan

Reuse Or Repurpose: Ideas For Vintage Luggage

Discover clever ways to use vintage luggage.
(Spoiler Alert: I quite enjoyed the medicine cabinet.)

Instead of baskets, boxes or the closet, store your things in vintage luggage.
You can also stack them to use as a unique night stand. See more of this home that did just that!

With vintage luggage, you can have unique and very interesting shelves.
You can create your own with these step-by-step instructions.

One your vintage luggage is no longer pretty, breath new life into it by planting a herb garden in it.

Easily turn vintage luggage into chalkboards, so can always share messages with flair.

And, now, just for your vintage luggage loving viewing pleasure . . .

Gray Tweed Vintage Suitcases, Passed By

Care Bears Suitcase, 1986, Silver Lining Toys
Ha ha ha! I love this simply because I grew up with the Care Bears.
Also, vintage can be fun. It doesn't always have to so adult and sophisticated.

Antique Makeup Suitcase, circa 1940s, Uncommon Recycables

Plaited Bamboo Vintage Suitcase, circa 1940s, Dreem Co.

Wasn't that a fantastic journey? Vintage luggage is perfect for traveling, but it also works well for so many other things. Have you ever made anything with a piece?

10 Ways To Show How Deer We Are To Each Other

We are so deer to each other and always will be.

1. Paying for the other person's coffee when cash is short.

Deer Wallet, Faith On Earth

2. Spending time together.

Paper Cuckoo Clock, helopetie

3. Supporting each other's endeavors.

Deer Art Doll, The Poppy Tree

4. Crafting together.

Deer Hat Crochet Pattern, Simply2Irrestible

5. Enjoying sweets with no guilt.

Antler Cupcake Toppers, Through Thick And Thin

6. Outdoor adventures.

Twin Fauns Photo, Steider Studios

7. Sharing funny stuff with each other on Facebook.

Deer iPad Sleeve, Bagz Girl Designs

8. Sending cards for special occasions or no reason at all.

Deer Letterpress Card, Letterary Press

9. Pillow fights. We're never too old to have one :)

Deer Pillow, Smiling Cloud

10. Just being there. Just in case.

Deer Coaster Holder, Stone Gifts