Tissuepapers

3D Cookies

2011-11-02T19:16:00.005-04:00

A friend had a "Dead Rock and Roll" theme Halloween party last Saturday evening. Everyone had to come dressed as there favorite dead rockstar. I was asked to bring something sweet to eat, so with all the hype over 3D movies these last couple of years, I wanted to make a special yummy treat that would have that 3D magic. You can use any rubber stamp image to make these cookies. It was so easy to make and it was a huge hit at the party! Everyone was walking around with their 3D glasses on eating the 3D rock and roll cookies - it was so much fun!!!!

What you will need to make theses cookies

3D glasses
white fondant
red gel food coloring
blue gel food coloring
rubber stamps
4x4 inch piece of felt
cookies - I used round ginger cookies
smaller round cookie cutter

Roll out your fondant on a clean surface. Once you get a nice size of the rolled fondant use your round cookie cutter and cut out as many round pieces you can.

Felt - this piece will be your stamping pad that you will put the gel food coloring on. You will need 2 pieces of felt - 1 for the red and 1 for the blue. Make sure you have enough gel on the pad to cover the image of your rubber stamp. Be careful to only get the gel on the image not on the negative space. It can make the cookie have a "ugly" spot.

Using your blue food coloring gel pad pick up some ink on your rubber stamp and press the image to the prepared round pieces of fondant. Do all your pieces of fondant because you are going to clean your stamp with soap and water to get it clean for the next color.

Now that you have completed the blue stamp and you have cleaned you rubber stamp it is now time to stamp the red gel food coloring. With you second piece of felt add the red food coloring as before with the blue. Use your clean rubber stamp to pick up some of the red food coloring and stamp all little off from the blue image to get the traditional "3D" look. Complete all of your round fondant pieces.

Once you have finished all the pieces of fondant with the 2 colors you can now add it to any cookie of your choice. I used ginger snaps and with a little white icing that comes in a can put a small dot in the center of the cookie that will be the "glue" that will hold your 3D fondant rounds to your cookie.

Add your 3D glasses and then your ready to go!!!!!!!

Enjoy!!!

Pan Am Halloween Costume

2011-10-27T19:33:00.000-04:00

So excited this year to finally use my Pan American World Airways bag that I found at a thrift store 5 years ago. My Halloween costume is an inspiration from the Pan Am TV series that aired in early September. It was very easy to make from a standard pattern I purchased at a fabric store or you can transform a blue suit to get the look. Here is the pattern that I used for this look http://www.simplicity.com/p-5832-misses-miss-petite-sportswear.aspx

The hat was a simple pill box shape where I added the "wing" on the side with a gold button. Find a couple of vintage magazines, some white gloves, and cat eye makeup and then your ready to go!!!Happy Halloween everyone

Sign up: 30 Days of List

2011-08-09T10:04:00.007-04:00

I'm participating in 30 Days Of Lists starting September 1st.

What's it all about:

30 Days Of Lists

Not everyone can make a mini scrapbook every week or an art journal page every night. 30 Days of Lists is our encouragement and challenge to you that you CAN journal just something every day – even something as small as a list.

Every day through the month of September we will be posting a list prompt – anything from weekend goals to celebrity crushes. At the end of the 30 days you’ll have a collection of entries creating a small snapshot of your life right now.

It looks like fun!

Bloody Baklava

2010-10-27T21:30:00.005-04:00

This year I really wanted to create something really gruesome to serve at a friends Halloween party. I came up with this recipe that was inspired by my childhood arch enemy Freddy Krueger. He was the terror in my dreams when I was younger, chasing after me with those razor sharp claws.

I took a spin on the basic recipe for baklava. It reminded me of skin with its many layers of phyllo dough. Once baked it has the crispy look of baked skin!!

Enjoy

What you will need:

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package phyllo dough
1 good amount of mixed chopped nuts
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup honey
red and black gel food coloring
lime curd - for puss optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F(175 degrees C)

Chop nuts and toss with cinnamon in a bowl then set aside.

Boil sugar and water until sugar is melted. Add vanilla and honey. Simmer for about 20 minutes. Turn off heat then set aside and let cool.

Melt 2 sticks of butter. Once melted completely, butter the bottoms and sides of a 8x8 inch pan.

Unroll phyllo dough. Cut whole stack to fit the size of the pan. I just set the pan on top of the dough and cut around it to get the shape. Cover phyllo with a dampened cloth to keep from drying out as you work - per the manufactured directions. Place two sheets of dough in pan, butter thoroughly. Repeat until you have 8 sheets layered in the bottom of the pan - this will be the base for the baklava.

Sprinkle 2 - 3 tablespoons of nut mixture on top. Top with two sheets of dough, butter, nuts, layering as you go. I had about 4 layers before I got to the last layer.

My last layer I used Craisins Dried Cranberries to give a tart flavor.

The top layer should be about 6 - 8 sheets deep. Using a sharp knife cut into the skin either in a diamond or square shape all the way to the bottom of the pan. I cut the baklava into 5 long rows then turned the pan and cut again for a rectangle shape.

Using the same sharp knife - in each section make deep cuts or slashes on the tops of the baklava.

Your oven should be ready now to put your skin in. Bake for about 50 minutes until baklava is golden and crisp. Watch it about every 15 mins so you do not burn the dish.

Once you have removed the baklava from oven and immediately spoon sauce over it. Let cool before you add your blood.

Here I just some lime curd in a plastic bag with the end cut off very small - my cheap version of a pastry deco bag. This can be the puss is you desire.

With a plastic knife and the gel food coloring, add some blood along the cut lines. I used black in the very center of the cut for a more dramatic look.

Lastly I made the basic blood recipe out of karo syrup and red food coloring for the blood splatter on the plate. I placed the plate on the ground and stood on a chair letting gravity take over. With a spoon I just let the blood fall on the plate and splatter - super easy.

Once you have finished adding the bloody touch to all of your baked skin - put them on your bloody plate then serve to your Halloween guest!!!!!!

Hope you enjoy this treat.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T09:24:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Day

Vampire Blood Lollipops

2009-10-28T20:28:00.013-04:00

Does the sight of blood make you sick? Well here is a super easy recipe that you can make for your next Halloween party.

Makes about 12 lollipops

2 cups sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup
red food coloring
white lollipops stick - you can find them at your local craft store.

You can even add flavor oils like peppermint or strawberry if you like.

Step 1

Bring sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until all the sugar is dissolved completely. If you have a candy thermometer it will register 300 degrees to 310 degrees (hard-crack stage), 5 to 7 minutes.

While the sugar is boiling lay out your lollipop sticks onto a silicon baking mat ( I put my baking mat onto a cookie sheet to make it easier to move around and a nice hard level surface).

Step 2

Once you have placed your lollipop sticks down - Fill a larger pot with ice water. When your sugar mixture is ready - 300 degrees to 310 degrees, immediately set the pan into ice-water bath to stop the cooking (syrup will steam vigorously - be careful of the steam); let sit about 25 seconds. Swirl pan 1 minutes more to cool - it while still be bubbling, that's OK .

Step 3

Working very quickly, pour syrup onto the silicon baking sheets, forming circles (2 to 31/2 inches in diameter) and spacing pours about 3 inches apart - then press in lollipop sticks. I went very randomly - wherever there was space I made a lollipop.

The fun part:
With the red food coloring - squirt a few drops in to each lollipop (I would do one at a time to make it easier to work with), using one of the lollipop sticks drags the stick through some of the food coloring to get the desired look for the "blood". I add a few more drops to the blood coagulated look.

Let stand for about 5 - 10 minutes for the sugar to harden completely.

Now - go out there and share your blood lollipops.

Easy Faux Pearl Necklace Made of Cornstarch Clay

2009-05-11T19:56:00.006-04:00

Here is a super fun and easy Faux Pearl Necklace that you can make with just 3 ingredients you have in your pantry. A great rainy day afternoon for the kids or a serious jewerly junky.

Step 1

Measure out your pantry ingredients:

1 cup of water

1.5 cups of salt - table salt

1 cup of corn starch

1 mixing bowl and spoon

To put the entire necklace together you will need 1 long needle, strong thread and a fancy metal clasp.

Step 2

Add you water and salt and bring to a boil. I like when the salt has almost dissolved completely. Once you have a good boil turn down the heat and quickly add the cornstarch. Start to stir - almost like magic the cornstarch will overtake the water and form a sticky paste - keep stirring.

Step 3

Spoon a good size amount of dough out of the cooking pot and add to a mixing bowl *** remember this dough is going to be really hot so please do not touch it yet. Add some more corn starch and stir away.

Step 4

Once the dough has cooled you can start to mold and shape in your hands. You might want to add more cornstarch to get the right consistency that you desire.

Step 5

Now you can start to roll out the little pearls to make your necklace. You can even add some food coloring to make different color pearls - so much fun.

Step 6

Once you have all your pearls rolled out - using a good size needle poke a hole throught each one. Let them all dry for about 48 hours so they can get hard. Once dried, you will be able to use the needle with thread and sew your pearls together to make your necklace and/or bracelet. Have fun with making all kinds of jewerly - this clay can be molded to make almost anything and it is so easy to make.

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You are all invited.... and contest time!

2009-04-30T16:28:00.005-04:00

Come and celebrate my Super Sweet 29th Birthday Party Contest - 6th time around. I will be hosting my own birthday party live online for all to share in.

My new "crazy" idea is to share my birthday party live over the web so everyone can join in on the super awesome fun.

When: Saturday May 9th

Time: 4:00pm

Place: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/birthday-party---29-again-for-the-4th-time%21

Come and chat with me, sing karaoke, listen to grown adults try to play Rockband (my new favorite game ever) learn how to make great easy/fast party food, tips on party hosting and so much more.

The party will be from 4pm on May the 9th at:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/birthday-party---29-again-for-the-4th-time%21
Click the link on May 9th when I go live with my birthday party.

Contest

How to play along: All you have to do to is R.S.V.P here by leaving me a comment on this post ( ends midnight May 9th) and I will add you to my "guest list".

Prizes: FUN FILLED PARTY PRIZE BOX - Open it up and you too can have a party.

Contest ends: May 9th 12:00 Midnight

Details: When commenting - please don't use anonymous - It's so hard to give a prize away to "anonymous". I will then pull a random comment and announce on May 10th the winner so check back to see who won - it might just be you.

Hope to see you all there with me live on May the 9th at 4PM

Remember it's an Ice Cream social so bring along your favorite ice cream with sprinkles.

Craftzine CRAFT: Archives

2009-02-15T11:11:00.010-05:00

One of my favorite all time craft magazines Craftzine has announced that they will no longer produce a print-magazine any longer - sniff sniff. The CRAFT digital archive is available at http://craftzine-digital.com. I have already bookmarked into my favorites.

How to make a wallet from an 8 track cassette

2009-02-12T13:39:00.017-05:00

Super easy to make and so much fun - have fun and enjoy!

Here is a list of what you will need to make this wallet

- 8 track

- hot glue gun

- fabric

- pliers

- long zipper

First you will use your pliers to open up the 8 track - once open remove the music tape. With your pliers try and remove some of the ugly plastic from the inside. It will make it much nicer to close and to add your items.

Use the fabric to trace the outside edge - then cut out leaving enough on the edge of the fabric to turn under.

Using your trusty hot glue gun - glue the zipper to all edges of the 8 track.

Once you have finished glueing the zipper to both sides use the fabric to line the insides of the 8 track with your hot glue gun - it will hide any flaws that might have happened while glueing the sides and the inside of the 8 track.

Then you are done - put your favorite lipstick and some change inside and you are on your way!!!

Enjoy!

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For the blood of the Bullfinch

2009-02-08T23:05:00.005-05:00

My husband was in a play at his High School where he is the Assistant Principal. He had the staring role - very first time on stage. I was so proud. “For the blood of the Bullfinch”. I helped him with his stage makeup - he had to look like an old man.
Day 8

Spoons From Afar

2009-02-07T21:25:00.004-05:00

This project took 2 days - I had to let the glue dry overnight- stupid long drying glue. When my grandmother passed away she left all of her spoons from her many travels to me. They have been sitting in a plastic bag. I decided to take them out and display them Martha Stewart Style ( or I think this is how Martha would have displayed them herself.)

Day Glow

2009-02-05T22:59:00.003-05:00

I took my glow worms from my toy collection 1980’s Christmas past outside - they haven’t seen day-lite in a while so I thought I could super charge them with the sun. They were one of my favorite toys from my past. My pictures are titled Day Glow.

Who had Glow Worms when they were little???

Thing a day 5

Thread Bracelet

2009-02-04T10:56:00.002-05:00

I went into my thread basket and pulled out every color I owned and then braided this simple little bracelet.
Thing a day 4

2009-02-04T10:17:00.005-05:00

If you know me you would know that I am horrified of sharks - don't ask me why? So I just found this amazing little tea infuser that made me giggle with fright and I wanted to share. Sharky is designed by Pablo Matteoda.

Minnie Pearl Necklace

2009-02-03T17:53:00.005-05:00

Today I was really struggling with what to make - that’s a problem with only 3 days into it right?
So I went to my Magical Mysterious Lot of Goodies and found the not so used yard sale tags ( I was planning a yard sale 3 years ago and never used them ). For what ever reason my grandmother popped into my head and I remembered her favorite TV show when I was younger Hee-Hah. Minnie Pearl was her favorite character on the show, So I dedicated this necklace to my grandmother - The Minnie Pearl Necklace. Now the question is will I actually wear this out in public - I must find the perfect outfit to match!
Day 3 Thing a day

Fur Warm and Orange Toasty

2009-02-02T13:43:00.001-05:00

Day 2
I was lying on the sofa with my new camera trying out different focus setting and I took this picture.
I title it Fur Warm and Orange Toasty my little pug dog was snuggly under my favorite blanket.

I "Heart" My Dishes

2009-02-01T22:52:00.005-05:00

Here is my very first project for Thing A Day 3 - I Heart My Dishes. I wanted to buy a new dish sponge today and while I was looking at all of the square sponges in the store I was inspired to make my own. Square is so boring and with Valentines Day just around the corner I decided to make a heart themed sponge.

To make here is what you will need:
- pink wash cloth or hand towel
- sissors
- needle and thread
- paper and pen
Here I used a pink washcloth that I had hiding in the back of my linen closet. Cut out a perfect heart shape out of paper to make the pattern then place it on the towel to cut out - leave enough around the edge for seam allowance. I hand stiched around the edges about 1/4 inch - turned right side out and stuffed with the scraps of washcloth. Finish off the open end then fluff to get your perfect shape. Now for the entire month of February I will use my themed dish sponge and say "I Heart My Dishes"

Thing-a-day 3

2009-01-20T10:55:00.006-05:00

Last year I participated for the entire month of February on a creative site - Thing-a-day.

Where over 1418 people sighed up who made over 6,585 things with over 6,690 comments! The object of the site is to knit cook draw paint tape solder write install destroy invent or document for the entire month of February. Each week we were given a theme to help us create then we would post what we made.

Now last year I was not very creative and I only came up with 2 "things" for the entire month, however this year I am taking a personal creative vow that I will follow through each and every day to make something new.

Here is what I made last year

Will you take that personal vow with me?

I am getting ready for this year and sending out to all my fellow crafts to join me in Thing-a-day 3. I promise you will not only feel creative but you can make some new crafty friends along the way. It's free to join and so much fun to do! Sign-up opens on January 26th and closes on midnight on the 31st.

Starting Small in 2009 New Years Resolutions Post Card Swap

2008-12-28T17:35:00.009-05:00

Ring in the old, ring in the new! Well here we go again! It's now that time to start thinking of a new beginning again. Dust off your resolving mechanism and get it into high gear - and watch out everybody -here you come. Wipe the slate clean and start thinking of your New Years Resolutions for 2009. A chance to change the way you are living now and start your new year off right.
So we make those determineding lists and eternal promises and by the time February comes you've lost that list and forgotten the promises. too bad, you meant well. It was a good idea: everyone needs to take stock and do some starting over occasionally, and the first day of a brand-new year is a good time for a new beginning.
What do we do wrong? Sometimes it's a question of giving up way before you even start. You are so sure that you've got weak kneed will power that you play it safe sometimes to safe. You pick something so insignificant that it isn't worth being so firm about. You know darn well it doesn't matter with you stick to that or not, and when your determination gets the best of itself on the small stuff your conscience won't nag you at all. Or perhaps you are horn blower. Standing up and make a loud announcement of your good intentions. You may do it because you enjoy the pat on the back that you get for all the wonderful things you are going to do with your new resolutions. More often, however the biggest stumbling block to staying true to your resolutions is the newness of it all. Once you start thinking about the ways to improve yourself its hard to know where to start or stop. You can get too big about the resolution itself and try to demand impossible perfection. You reach a point where you have to work so hard at resolving to keep your resolution that the positive change you were trying to make in yourself gets lost in the shuffle. Now wonder you don't get anyplace.

Tradition dictates that every 365 days, you should try to kick bad habits and start your life anew. So sit down with a cup of coffee, a paper and a pen, and reflect: What kinds of New Years Resolutions will you make for yourself this January 1st?
Step 1
Be realistic by setting achievable goals.
Step 2
Describe your resolutions in specific terms. Instead of "I don't want to be lazy," opt for "I want to exercise regularly" or "I will cut down on my television watching."
Step 3
Break down large goals into smaller ones. For instance, commit to losing weight by resolving to join a gym and improve your eating habits.
Step 4
Find alternatives to a behavior that you want to change, and make this part of your resolution plan. So you want to quit smoking but you smoked to relax yourself? What other forms of relaxation are available to you?
Step 5
Above all, aim for things that are truly important to you, not what you think you ought to do or what others expect of you.New Year's Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year.

News Years Resolution Post Card Swap

This is a swap for you to send out postcards to old friends or new all over the world! For this swap you will be given at random 10 partners that you will send 1 postcard to each person. That means 10 different locations! Send 10 postcards out - you will get 10 postcards back with everyone’s 2009 New Years Resolutions listed.

Who doesn't love to get postcards the old fashion way - snail mail. Be as creative as you would like. Use store bought ones or make your own.
How to play along:
If you wish to join the swap please email me no later then January 5th with your name and home address to:

lancarrowmaltby@yahoo.com

With the title "New Years Resolution Post Card Swap". On the 6th I will then send out the address of your 10 partners that you will be sending your Resolution post cards too.

Invite your friends to participate - the more the merrier.

Please send out your cards on or before January 31st 2009

Homemade for the Holiday Pledge

2008-12-09T13:42:00.005-05:00

I'm asking all artists, designers and crafters 101 reasons why you are going to buy or make handmade/vintage gifts for this holiday season (Please add your reason - so we can make it to 101)

If you wish to participate, please follow with a comment starting with the #1 and then continuing till we get to # 101.

Gingersaurous Rex Cookies

2008-12-03T11:11:00.017-05:00

Please vote for my T-Rex Cookies over at Instructables in the holiday treats contest. Only 1 day left - votes ends tomorrow 12.10.08

I am trying to get into the holiday spirit so last night my husband said let make some cookies. Oh what fun - so I went digging through my collections of recipes, ingredients and cookie cutters and thought "no cookie says Christmas more than a gingerbread man cookie - right.

All I could find was this T-Rex cookie cutter, so here is my twist on this classic cookie.

Gingersaurous Rex Cookies

We had so much fun decorating and eating the heads off I do have to say I could almost hear bells ringing in the distance and caroling at the front door.

Gingersaurous Rex Cookies Recipe
INGREDIENTS
For the cookies
3 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter (room temperature, softened)
1/2 cup dark-brown sugar, packed
1 Tbsp ground ginger
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoons ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
Royal Icing
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 3/4 cup confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)
METHOD
1 In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and spices. Set aside.

2 In an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter. Add sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in eggs and molasses. Gradually add the flour mixture; combine on low speed. (You may need to work it with your hands to incorporate the last bit of flour.) Divide dough in thirds; wrap each third in plastic. Chill for at least 1 hour or overnight. Before rolling out, let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. If after refrigerating the dough feels too soft to roll-out, work in a little more flour.

3 Heat oven to 350°. Place a dough third on a large piece of lightly floured parchment paper or wax paper. Using a rolling pin, roll dough 1/8 inch thick. Refrigerate again for 5-10 minutes to make it easier to cut out the cookies. Use either a cookie cutter or place a stencil over the dough and use a knife to cut into desired shapes. Press raisins, chocolate chips, or candy pieces in the center of each cookie if desired for "buttons".
4 Transfer to ungreased baking sheets. Bake until crisp but not darkened, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from oven. Let sit a few minutes and then use a metal spatula to transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate as desired.
Makes 16 5-inch long cookies.
Royal Icing
The traditional way to make Royal Icing is to beat egg whites and lemon juice together, adding the powdered sugar until the mixture holds stiff peaks. With modern concerns about salmonella from raw eggs, you can either use powdered egg whites or heat the egg whites first to kill any bacteria. With the heating method, mix the egg white and lemon juice with a third of the sugar, heat in a microwave until the mixture's temperature is 160°F. Then remove from microwave, and beat in the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form. Using the powdered egg whites method, combine 1 Tbsp egg white powder with 2 Tbsp water. If the icing is too runny, add more powdered sugar until you get the desired consistency. Fill a piping bag with the icing to pipe out into different shapes. Keep the icing covered while you work with it or it will dry out.

Enjoy and I hope you add my Gingersaurous Rex Cookies to your Holiday this year!

Mini Holiday Polls: HOLIDAY SPENDING + GIFT GIVING

2008-12-02T11:58:00.003-05:00

I'm posting in the near future on some gift guides for this holiday season and am curious about what you are planning to spend this year on holiday gifts. Of course this is entirely optional and completely anonymous. Thanks in advance for your feedback!

Online Surveys & Market Research

Venus Zine Runner-up Craft Off Contest

2008-11-30T20:54:00.003-05:00

I just picked up the lasted copy of Venus Zine winter issue and let me just say I am so excited! My Elle Tie-On Slippers was runner-up in the Craft Off Contest and are featured in the magazine. Go check it out!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T19:57:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving 2008 - Tissuepapers

Contest - Win a Mini Digital Camera

2008-11-18T09:39:00.014-05:00

I will be having a contest and the prize is this lovely mini digital camera. As a artist/ crafter/photographer I am always on the look for great ideas and inspiration. Having a camera with you at all times makes it easy to take a picture so you won't forget your image and file it away in your inspiration notebook. This mini camera is perfect to keep with you at all times and have ready when ever that great idea pops in your head.

Info on the fabulous prize:
The mini camera is a 3-in-1 that hold up 243 photos, you can capture several seconds of live action or you can connect to your Mac/PC to send images simultaneously through the Internet. You also get the USB cable to connect to your computer, easy to use software and "AAA" battery to get you on your way.

The Contest will run until 12.15.08 midnight EST

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:
• Post a comment here letting me know how your family is going green this holiday season.
• Make sure your e-mail is entered correctly in the form in case you win. Please don't be anonymous.
• Giveaway ends on December, 15th at midnight EST.
• All residents of the world are eligible for this giveaway.
• The winner will be chosen using a random number generator.
• The winner will be announced the following day - Good Luck!

Here are some extras to make the contest more exciting

Subscribe to my crafting blog newsletter, subscribe to my RSS feed or follow me on twitter.

Add the Tissuepapers button!

If the winner comes from your blog, you'll win a prize too! Be sure to tell your readers to mention they came from your blog when they post their entry... Just cut and paste the below text in your blog:

JUST COPY & PASTE THE CODE

I've added the blogger "follow" gadget to this blog --> follow me and I will follow you.

Good luck and thanks for playing!

Tissuepapers

Dinner Notes

2008-11-18T09:33:00.004-05:00

Lately, I have been getting home really late from work ( after midnight ) and my dear sweet husband has made me dinner every single night. I would come home and setting on the coffee table were the great little notes telling me where the dinner would be. I just have to share - they make me smile.

How to make your closet seem like a boutique - oh la la

2008-11-15T17:47:00.012-05:00

Today while shopping at one of my favorite thrift stores, I came across this amazing wall paper. So I thought how beautiful would that look in my ugly closet - I could transform my closet it to a chic boutique that would just scream put your clothes away in me! Here is how I took my closet from boring to oh la la.

Step 1
Find an ugly closet!

When I took a piece of the wood away I came across this wonderful little treasure of the past. I found this small piece of what was small green leaf wall paper- my house is about 90 years old and this closet once in its glory was just as fancy as it is today.

Step 2
Paint and add the wall paper of your choice. I took out the old hanging bar and replaced it with a new one.

Step 3
Add the Oh La La
Here I hung a mirror that I purchased at a decor store along with the small frame to the right. I added a chandelier that I had gotten a few years ago to add some light - I am in LOVE with my new closet and can't wait to hang all of my clothes in it.

Calling All Crafters...

2008-11-07T11:22:00.007-05:00

So over the last few weeks I had the great opportunity to be featured in a great site www.PNN.com for a craft contest. As part of winning this craft contest I will be given the chance to write for PNN as a featured author of the Crafts/DIY section of the site. Each week I will be posting articles on the crafting world, DIY greatness and maybe even feature a crafty goddess like yourself. I am still getting all of the details this week, so when I am ready to start writing for the section I will have lots of juicy information to share.

Here is where you all come in - as a featured author for pnn.com I will be able to write about all things crafts/DIY and I would love to feature my fellow bloggers out there in the crafting world. If you are interested in letting interview you and write about what projects you are working on. Please email me at tissupapers@yahoo.com.

Here is some information on PNN.com and please visit the site to see the other great articles that are on there.

Real People. Real Stories. Real Easy.
PNN is a women's social news network that blends an easy to use social publishing platform with a destination portal giving women an online voice, and empowering anyone to share stories on personal, custom sites. Goal:PNN.com strives to be the easiest place on earth for people to get connected by sharing great stories.

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I am so excited and can't wait to get started - talk soon

Milk to Milk Soomthies - great winter time drink recipes

2008-11-04T20:20:00.009-05:00

Getting ready for the colder months I came across some really wonderful milk recipes. For me I personally don't drink milk - icky. However these dainty little recipes makes me want to whip up a few to make me warm and toasty in the upcoming winter months.

If you try them let me know what you think - I would love to hear you thoughts on how they may taste. I'm just sticking with the coffee and chocolate mint flavors.

Start with dry powered milk - this is a good way to make a rich base for any frothy beverage. In making these Mild to Milk recipes, add dry milk to the liquids and blend together thoroughly by using your blender. All these recipes are for 1 glass - enjoy!

Strawberry-Pineapple Milk - make cold
One-half cup of canned pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of strawberry syrup, 3/4 cup of milk 3 tablespoons of powered milk. Mix together.

Raspberry or Strawberry Milk
One cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of raspberry or strawberry syrup, dash of salt, 1/4 cup of powdered milk.

Banana Milk

One ripe banana, beaten until smooth with your blender, add 1 cup of milk, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, dash of salt, 14 cup of powder milk - enjoy.

Banana Chocolate Milk

One ripe banana, beaten until smooth with your blender, add 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup, a dash of salt, 3 tablespoons of powdered milk.

Banana Orange Milk

One ripe banana, beaten until smooth with your blender, 1/2 cup orange juice, 3/4 cup of milk, dash of salt, 3 tablespoons dry powdered milk.

Chocolate Mint Milk

One cup of milk, 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup, a few drops of peppermint extract, dash of salt, 1/4 cup powdered milk.

Coffee Milk - my favorite!

One-half cup cold espresso or coffee, 3/4 cup of milk, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, dash of salt, 3 tablespoons of powdered milk with sugar to taste.

Maple Milk - serve this one warm.

One cup of milk, few drops of maple syrup, dash of salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 cup of powdered milk.

Spice Milk - serve warm

One cup of milk, dash of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 cup of powdered milk.

Have fun making the wonderful little treats.

My Magic Needle Threading Machine ... The Witch!

2008-10-29T13:11:00.015-04:00

Last week I went thrift shopping with my friends and came across the most amazing little "magic" thing. It is called Automatic Needle Threader - The Witch. I had to share being so close to Halloween. It helps you thread your sewing needles with magic!!

Here is my very first video ever showing you how to use it enjoy!

"The Birds" My Spooky Porch

2008-10-20T12:26:00.024-04:00

I just finished decorating my house for Halloween. This year I decided on a theme - Alfred Hitchcock's " The Birds ". I was totally inspired while shopping at my local craft store and I came upon the great black crows birds in all different sizes. I true fan of Alfred Hitchcock, I thought this was perfect. With a little help and past inspiration from her majesty Martha Stewart Halloween magazines, I arranged the birds on my front door and a few on my orange and white pumpkins I have setting on the stoop to get that I'm being attacked by birds look. A few here and there faux spider webs compliment the front while a scary skeleton and black cat grace the windows to the left as silhouettes ( Martha Stewart Crafts

Getting ready for Halloween

2008-10-04T21:20:00.002-04:00

I just have to share a picture of my dear sweet pug Bailey Floyd. He is getting ready for Halloween and posing with his new mullet wig - doesn't he look adorable.

What are you planning on being for Halloween? I can't decide yet - share you thoughts.

Happy Halloween

Halloween Extravaganza

2008-09-18T21:18:00.004-04:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday ever and I can't wait to start working on my costume...hmmm I don't know who I will be this year quite yet.
I can remember learning this tiny little song in elementary school and to this day I love singing it to myself to get me in the Halloween sprite

" H A double L O W double E N spells Halloween "

My blogging friend Dot at Dabbled.com is having a fun little Halloween contest to help celebrate.

Here is all the information - Good luck and happy haunting.

Here's the official rules for the Halloween Extravaganza Contest:

The Rules: Your entry can be art, craft, or food. For Halloween, this includes Costume and Decoration ideas as well.

Post a link to your entry preferably IN THIS THREAD (or you can email it to me). Entry should include a link to the item. You can link to a blog, website or etsy, or flickr pictures. Post pictures, and extra credit for instructions or recipes

Judges are still in the works, i'll update this post with the info. If you're a past winner, and are not participating this time, you're eligible to be a Judge - email me. Also Sponsors are eligible.

Deadline: A few days before Halloween, I'll update with the exact date and time.

Prizes: Fame! Fortune! Well, a tad of fame, anyway! There will be prizes, including a link over to your blog for the coolest submissions. Prizes will include several donated prizes by our Sponsors, plus original artwork. Also you'll receive a nifty "I Won" button for your site!

Other details:
- you can enter as many items as you want, but you can only win with one entry.
- post each entry in a different comment, please.
- If you're featured during the Halloween Features, you'll still need to enter on this post with whichever items you are entering.
- I'll update this more later with the Sponsor info.
- If you use flickr, please add your item to the Dabbled flickr pool too! (The pool is http://www.flickr.com/groups/dabbled/ , but still link it here if you want it counted.)

Giveaway at RÉCUPÉRATION NATHALIE BRAULT

2008-08-06T21:36:00.005-04:00

Contest has closed!

My friend Nathalie's blog RÉCUPÉRATION NATHALIE BRAULT is turning 1 and to celebrate this joyious blogoversary, she is having a giveaway. Here are all the details and please check out all of her great crafting projects too, they are in both English and French.

"So it's my turn now. It's already been 1 year. I can't believe it. And for the occasion I'm having a GIVEAWAY. All you have to do to win is leave a comment here telling me wich of these 3 earrings you prefer and that's it. I'll be drawing a name on August 18th. Until then goodluck. -----Et bien ça m'arrive finalement à moi aussi, ça fait 1 an que je blog. Pour l'occasion je fait un TIRAGE . Tout ce que vous avez à faire c'est me laisser un commentaire et me dire laquelle de ces 3 boucles d'oreilles vous préférez. Je ferai le tirage le 18 Aout. Bonne chance."

Happy Blogoversary Nathalie!

My Stepped-Up Stoop Part 2

2008-08-06T21:11:00.004-04:00

I came home two nights ago from the longest working week ever...so tired and found this happy little surprise. My post " My Stepped-Up Stoop" was featured in Decor8. WOW - They used my before and after photos of my little house.

"Jen is a reader looking for some help today with her front porch. She cannot make any structural changes but needs help with color and perhaps some furniture ideas and placement.

Jen’s stoop - Any suggestions?

Jen says, “It’s a fairly useless porch and it’s waaaaaay too white. We are going to replace the screen door and I’m thinking of painting the front door a bolder color (it’s now black). The walls of the porch have been primed and I’m just trying to decide what color it should be painted. I’d like to warm up the house a bit. And I’d like the porch to reflect the style within our house, not necessarily the 60’s split level style. Our *style* could be described as eclectic–contemporary cottage, perhaps. Cozy with lots of books and comfy furniture but not cluttered. Oh–and the picture does not properly show the planting that is to the right of the front step. I’ve got a huge bunch of black-eyed Susans there right now, but would happily change it if someone has ideas. The whole area is just plain awkward.”

Hmmm… Perhaps a lovely before and after from blogger Tissue Papers may inspire Jen a little?"

My before and after

Do you have some tips to help Jen add a little curb appeal to her porch? Visit Decor8 and give Jen some of your ideas."

Summer Doldrums Contest At Dabbled.com

2008-07-24T21:16:00.006-04:00

Dot from Dabbled.com is having a wonderful contest and the theme is "Summer Doldrums".

Here is all the info - I am one of the guest judges so please take a look and enter one of your creations for a chance to win great prizes. Deadline will be July 31! Good Luck and happy crafting!!

Summer Doldrums

Beat the heat (or cold, if you're in that part of the world)! Arts & Crafts that celebrate summer, particularly stuff for kids (or for kids at heart). Accepted are: artwork, crafts, & tutorials. I'm going to ask some of our past winners to be judges this time (unless they want to enter themselves!). There will be prizes (TBA, but they will include both fun kids stuff & original artwork... Plus the fame and fortune that comes with links back to your blog!

Good luck and happy crafting,
Tissuepapers -

My first swap

2008-07-02T10:32:00.003-04:00

I am so excited - I am participating in my very first swap on Crafter. The theme is Breakfast at Tiffany's . This is one of my all time favorite movies. I found out who my partner yesterday and I have decided to make her the Holly Golightly dress - with a few other fun little projects from the movie too. I am going to buy a simple dress pattern and reconstruct the back of the pattern to look like the famous dress - or at least I am going to try too!! Any words of wisdom out there would be greatly appreciated!!! Over the next month I will take pictures of everything that I am making so please check back to see my progress!!!

Just to say thank you

2008-06-29T22:41:00.006-04:00

Over the past couple of weeks I have had the great chance of corresponding with really great people from around the world.

I just wanted to take the time an say hello and thank you to all of these great new friends.

Please go and visit their gems - here is a list of all the sites.

Jewelfaerie

Recycled Frockery

Darcia Ray

Nathalie Brault

Nikki Shell

Tipnut

My Half of the Brain

These Little Pieces

The Pearl Rucksack

2008-06-25T19:14:00.014-04:00

I love sewing and designing - I was shopping at my local fabric store and came across this amazing red cotton fabric. I just had to turn it into something great. After watching all of my favorite 1940's movie this weekend - I was inspired to use the fabric and make a modern day glamorous verson of a rucksake. Think Huckleberry Fin with high heels and lip stick!! It was very easy to make - you can make almost any size. Figure out how big you want it - cut out 2 perfect squares. Here is the link to the pattern and the directions.

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Bon Voyage- Going on a Holiday to Boston

2008-06-17T16:44:00.004-04:00

My husband and I are getting ready to go on a little holiday... We're going to Boston. I've never been and I am so excited to go!! We've put together a ToDo list of things to see... Red Sox Game, Whale Watching in the New England waters, Salem and some shopping. But I would love to know of some other great places to visit ...good eats, thrift stores or antique shops would be perfect. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated - so send me your ideas! When I get back I will share my stores and photos. Talk to everyone soon... Bon Voyage - Tissuepapers

The Elle Tie-On Slippers

2008-06-12T11:34:00.016-04:00

Here is a cute little pair of slippers that you can make. I was inspired by one of my favorite movie stars -Doris Day and designed these slippers to wear on those lazy days of summer afternoons sipping your chilled ice tea. Enjoy! Here is the pattern with the complete directions attached.

For more get crafty patterns sign up to recieve the Tissuepapers Newsletter.
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This just in - My slippers were runner-up in the Venus Zine Craft-Off Conest winter issue. Grab yourself a copy at your local bookstore and check them out.

How to make the Vintage Kitchy Craft

2008-05-28T18:25:00.004-04:00

Here are the complete directions on how to make this cute little vintage inspired craft. My grandmother had one hanging in her kitchen for many years. It's so easy to make!

What you will need to get you started
3 dish rags
2 S.O.S pads
yarn
fancy ribbon
needle & thread

Paint By Number

2008-05-24T17:32:00.004-04:00

I just have to share this paint by number that my grandmother did at least 30 years ago. She never finished painting it however I think it adds to the charm.

Winner - Crafty Bag of Goodness

2008-05-24T17:02:00.006-04:00

I would like to announce the winner of the Crafty Bag of Goodness.
With the help of my sweet little pug Pearl - she pulled the winning name out of the bowl.

Drum Roll Please.....

ThisOldHenHouse

Congratulations!!!

The Vivan - My latest wearable towel beach cover-up creation

2008-05-23T17:54:00.006-04:00

I had such a great response to my Jiffy Beach Cover-Up that I came up with this new little number titled The Vivian. Here I made a beach sarong that you can put on to keep you dry either at the beach or pool. Again you will use a old towel, four buttons, and 1 inch elastic to add support.
Here is a link to the pattern with the directions

It is very easy and fun to make. Love to know any thoughts on the pattern.

Hold to fold a fitted sheet

2008-05-20T11:17:00.003-04:00

A few night ago I decided to teach my husband how to fold a fitted sheet. He was such a good sport *wink! If you need help click here for the DIY directions.

Jiffy Beach Cover-Up Made from an Old Towel

2008-05-14T16:53:00.007-04:00

I made this little number a couple of days ago and posted the how-to's on instructables. Here is a great way to turn an old towel into something smashing for the beach. For the complete instructions visit instructables.

I drafted a pattern for you convenience too.

Have fun making this little jacket - send me some feedback on the pattern. This was my first time drafting out a pattern on Photoshop, it was kinda tricky but I think it turned out well.

What I got in the mail today

2008-05-14T16:43:00.003-04:00

Today in the mail I received my prize for winning the April Fools contest on Dabbled.org. I am so excited to have this amazing piece of art work. My husband fancies it too - he loves robots. Just wanted to say thank you so much to Dot from Dabbled.org - this drawing is wonderful.

Contest - Cleanfest Crafty Grab Bag Give-A-Way

2008-05-07T23:04:00.003-04:00

As part of my Cleanfest May 2008 Clean Up of my entire house I will host another contest to help get my house into shape. Yesterday I started to purge my crafting room to see what I could get part with. I just had why to many odds and ends. I found some really great crafty supplies that I have not used in some time. So I thought why just throw them away when I can sent them out to a fabulous crafter and they can give some love to my them!!

Announcing: Crafty Grab Bags of Goodness Giveaway

Here is what I found so far but keep in mind that I have not finished going through my crafting room so there will be many more items that I will add to the grab bag. So it will almost be a suprise when one lucky winner opens the box!!

Please just sent me a comment here to this post and I will choice a random name on May 21st at midnight for one lucky winner.

Thanks
Tissuepaper

Cleanfest May 2008 Kick off

2008-04-28T14:56:00.019-04:00

My house is a mess and I don't mean messy - I mean total disaster. To kick off my own personal celebration of cleaning Cleanfest May 2008. During the entire month of May I will take a journey through the niches of my little house to get it to sparkle.

Each week I will focus on the different areas of my home to clean, purge, and make it sparkle like new.

I invite everyone to join me in Cleanfest May 2008 where we will get our homes clean together. Whether you have to completely clean from the floor to ceiling or just want to tackle a section in your home to get it to sparkle again here is the place to start. I have set up a Flickr Group Cleanfest May 2008 where we can upload our before and after photo along with some of your cleaning best practices in the posting section. Along the way I will give some of my cleaning inspiration tips to keep you motivated and charged.

Through our encouragements and comments we will get our homes clean together so get ready to clean.

Week 1 May 1st - 7th Bathroom

Happy cleaning - Tissuepaper

Martha Stewart here I come

2008-04-16T15:44:00.009-04:00

I got to visit - really just stand out side of the building - the studio where Martha Stewart tapes her show and let me tell you I had so excited. I am her biggest fan and I refer to her just as Martha to all of my friends and they know who I am talking about. Now I didn't really get to do much other then take few pictures of me proceeding to the building almost documenting the my steps. Here are a few of my pictures.

I stood at the entrance and looked in - I was like a kid in a candy store - mouth drooling. There was a man setting at a desk on the other side smiling at me, so I waved wildly and mouthed " we love Martha" to him and he started laughing. He must have thought Jewelfaerie and I were just another set of crazy fans. She pulled on the door to see if it would open and it was locked however the man behind the counter was laughing at us so much that he buzzed us in. We got to go in - talk about total excitement! That was one of the highlights of my trip. He gave us a flier to the show where I asked did the page actually come from Martha's own copy machine and he laughed again and shook his head at me. We were not allowed to take any pictures from inside - Now I can sleep soundly knowing that all is well at Martha Stewart's studio.

April Fools at Dabbled.org

2008-04-08T21:32:00.009-04:00

I was so excited to see that I was one of the winners for the Dabbled Aprils Fools contest. My best friend Fewelfaerie and I were in NYC for the weekend and when I got home to check my email - I saw that I was one of the winners! I entered my Severed Ear Earring Holder ! I will receive a original drawing from Dot at Dabbled.org. She has some amazing art illustrations on her blog and participates in a site called Illustration Fridays - defiantly check out her blog.

There were also guest judges for the contest and they were:

Alice of Futuregirl

Kathleen of Whipup

Lenore of Evil Mad Scientist

Here were the other winners - so please send your congratulations

The Golden Goose by little arty crafty crow

Foolish Fish by furrybees

Mini pink digital camera and the winner is......

2008-03-26T10:33:00.008-04:00

First I would like to thank everyone who left a comment on my new blog - I never expected so many! I had so much fun hosting this give-a-way.

With the help of my two little pugs Bailey and Pearl picking the winning name out of the white bowl.

Now without further ado

And the winner is - Canoni

I will email you to get your address so I can send you your prize - Mini pink Digital Camera.

Once again - thank you everyone for participating and the giveaways won't stop here. I plan on having many many more.

Tissuepapers-

How to make a Mac-Daddy Sewing & Crafts Center

2008-03-08T17:54:00.007-05:00

Hello fellow crafters - Tissuepaper here - the following is a guest post from my friend Jewelfaerie.com - Enjoy! I love what she did with her computer desk!

Hi everyone, I'm happy to be here, and thanks for having me! I hope you are inspired by my sewing center project. Here goes:

A few months back, I impulsively bought a This End Up computer hutch for $50 from someone on Craig's List. I had a vision that it would eventually be a sewing and crafts center-a place to house my sewing machine, ironing board, craft supplies etc. When I answered the ad, I had no idea how cool this thing would be. There's a built-in power strip, a drawer, several shelves and drop down desk with a built-in bulletin board.

ooooh and ahhhhhh

Now briefly, I have to pat myself on the back and share my bargain hunting prowess with you. Remember. I paid $50 for this hutch. One day I happened to be browsing online and came across This End Up's website and found the same hutch (minus a couple of cool features) for $900 I'd say I got a deal, huh?

However, I digress. And I sincerely apologize for the self-congratulation. Anyway, my friend Lisa and I shopped for some textured wallpaper and applied it to the paneled areas of the hutch, then painted the entire exterior green. We painted the inside white, added lighting and all sort of features to add convenience and hold supplies.

Voila!

To see all of the How-to's and details please visit w ww.jewelfaerie.com

I hope you find this inspiring...all of the details are in the link above. Happy crafting!

Woven Paper Dove Broach

2008-03-06T06:17:00.007-05:00

Check out my very first Instructables on how to make a Woven Paper Dove Broach. I just to make this little bird as a child, then just recently I had a dream about her and she popped back into my head. Two weeks ago or so I went out with my husband to a fancy party and I got to dress up. I always like to WOW people so I made my little dove into a broach - add a small pin to the underside with glue - presto I had the most original broach at the party. You can use the bird in so many other ways too - use it instead of a bow on a gift package, you will get a big wow with that one!! She has also appeared on Thing-a-Day too. I put the instructions on this great web site called Instructables so go check it out and make one yourself. Let me know your feedback - Tissuepaper

Mini Pink Digital Camera Give-a-way

2008-03-04T11:15:00.008-05:00

As part of my Blogging Debut and with many thanks and hugs to my friend Jewelfaerie for helping set up my blog. I will be having a contest and the prize is this lovely pink mini digital camera. As a artist/ crafter/photographer I am always on the look for great ideas and inspiration. Having a camera with you at all times makes it easy to take a picture so you won't forget your image and file it away in your inspiration notebook. This little pink camera is perfect to keep with you at all times and have ready when ever that great idea pops in your head. I have made a little case for you to keep it in too.

The pink camera is a 3-in-1 that hold up 243 photos, you can capture several seconds of live action or you can connect to your PC to send images simultaneously through the Internet. You also get the USB cable to connect to your computer, easy to use software and "AAA" battery to get you on your way.

The Give-A-Way will run until 3.25.08 midnight EST - just send me a comment- please don't use the anonymous ( I don't think I will be able to know who you are and I want to make sure I know who the winner will be when the contest is over!! ) or even better subcribe to my crafting blog ( I have so many great ideas for the furture - just wait and see! ) On the deadline date I will pull a comment # from the list and that will be the lucky winner!

Good luck and thanks so much for all of the comments, it really makes me happy to see everyone stopping by my new blog. Once again thanks so much - Tissuepapers

My Stepped-Up Stoop

2008-03-04T08:42:00.008-05:00

Recently my husband and I decided to repaint out little bungalow in Richmond, Va. I have wanted to do this project for such a long time. We bought the house in 2002 now after 5 years we finally did the house makeover! In a back issue of one of my favorite magazine by Martha Stewart (of course) Blueprint - I found this great house makeover that I just had to recreate on my little home.

Here is the Martha Stewart inspiration house

Before

After

Here is my house

Before

Very gray and boring....

After

Happy, yellow, and very cheerful - Yeah!

I love my new little house. Now I just have to figure out what to put in the window box underneath my two front windows.

Thing-a-day 2

2008-03-04T08:27:00.006-05:00

This February I participated in a make/craft/draw website called Thing-a-day.com. Where over 1418 people sighed up who made over 6,585 things with over 6,690 comments! The object of the site is to knit cook draw paint tape solder write install destroy invent or document - I posted the 2 project I did this month on the 28 and 29th - my stuffed ear and paper dove. Each week we were given a theme to help us creat. Week 4 was remake copy steal decieve. Got some really great comments from it. But definatly check out the site to see what all really great things came out of that Feburary. I am already thinking of what I am going to do next year - Maybe see you on there next year too!

Vincent van Gogh Severed Ear Earring Holder

2008-03-02T15:03:00.007-05:00

I am trying to get organized. Right now my home is a mess - that's a project that never seems to end, however today I was going through all my jewerly trying to organized them. I have way to many necklaces, rings, earring, etc. Nothing that really goes with anything - just one big mess. While I was purging this little project popped into my head. Looking at all of the earring that I had, I really had no way of getting them all nice and neat in one place. So I came up with this little "stuffie" inspired by the severed ear of the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh. I made this little ear to put all the earring that I owned onto it and presto - nice and organized! I put the full set of instructions on Instructables so go check it out.