PaperFlora

Confessions of a Pinterest Addict

2012-01-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you haven't been introduced to Pinterest you should check it out. BUT considered your self warned it is very addicting.
I am one of those addicted people who talk about Pinterest as if it's a friend, I use the word Pinterest in my daily language...but I don't want to go to rehab!

I'm asked all the time "...what is it exactly?" It's hard to explain but here is a great blog that explains it all and helps get you started.

http://www.pinsavvysocial.com/pinterest-101/

Visit their blog and find out everything you need to know, sign up and start following! There is so much to see and share....but remember I warned you!

Please follow my boards at http://pinterest.com/paperflora2/

2012-01-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

"The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway." -- Mother Teresa

Best Cake Ever

2012-01-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

If you need a "go to" "knock them off their feet" "best cake ever" recipe you don't need to look any further!
This Double Caramel Cake is so gooey and good you'll want to share it with everyone.

You can get the recipe at Culinary Concoctions. You won't be sorry!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T22:02:00.000-08:00

It's 9:59 p.m. December 31st. I'm sitting quietly at home and enjoying every minute.

This time of year is full of expectations, promises, hope and excitement. I don't make New Year's resolutions. But I do have some things I'd like to work on which, hopefully, will make 2012 less complicated.

I want to:
De-stach my life. I have a lot of stuff, it's good, pretty and useful but it's still stuff and it's taking up a lot of room.
Follow through.
Stay focused.
Scale back.
Start doing all those wonderful things I have pinned on Pinterst.

I know those things may seem a little vague but they all mean something important to me.

What about you, what is going to be important to you this year?

Happy New Year!

A few of my favorite things from my Pinterest boards. You can see more here http://pinterest.com/paperflora2/

Ruffled Streamers

2011-11-30T22:08:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you've heard the phrase "Everything old is new again" I can't think of where it would fit better than here. Remember crepe paper streamers, you know the ones your mom would thumb tack to the patio when it was time to celebrate!

Well Dana, over on her blog MADE has taken crepe paper streamers to a whole new level. On her site she gives you a step by step tutorial on how to sew these wonderful paper strips together to make your event bright and festive.

Please visit her site and see what else she has created.

Not your mother's pumpkin bread

2011-11-19T09:46:00.000-08:00

How good does this look?

I spotted this recipe on Grin and Bake it.

Kate has some wonderful goodies there. You can get the recipe for this and a lot more on her blog at Grin and Bake it

Time Out!

2011-11-13T21:30:00.000-08:00

This week I am going to put myself in "Time Out". I know a week might sound a little harsh but I bet it will do me some good.

Now to clarify-
I am going to limit (severely limit) my time on Twitter, Facebook, Etsy shop, Pinterest, Email and all the other time sucking vortexes I can get caught in that can steal minutes, that can turn into hours, from my day.
Maybe some of you can relate?

But with an Etsy shop to run, emails to answer and communications that have to be done I can't just "shutdown" and hope for the best.

THE PLAN-
1. Have a timer on my desk and limit my time to 10 minutes.
2. Make use of the "schedule" button on Tweetdeck. That way in one sitting I can schedule Tweets for the entire day or even days in advance.
3. I'm also going to use the Search Ads option for promoting my Etsy site, but limit my $$ and time for one week.
4. STICK TO MY PLAN!!!

THE GOAL-
1. Being a better steward of my time.
2. Work on new styles and color combinations.
3. Build up a back stock for the shop.
4. Get myself organized to work smarter not harder!

I'm going to use Craftopolis and my Shop Stats on Etsy to see if my plan makes any difference in views & visits to my shop.

Wish me luck-

Guest Post

2011-11-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

http://craftystaci.com/

Tomorrow I'll be guest posting on
CraftyStaci stop by and see what's going on!
Don't forget to leave a little comment love

Blog Giveaway at Casa di Cass

2011-10-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

http://www.bigmamacass.com/

It might be a little early but Cass and I are getting into the Holiday Spirit. Well I don't know if a "Giveaway" is the Holiday spirit but it is a lot of fun and you get something for FREE.

Visit her site Casa di Cass anytime from 10/26/11 through 11/1/11 and follow her directions and you can qualify to win a $20 gift certificate to my Etsy Shop.

And if you are hosting a giveaway of your own click on these links and get the word out!

http://www.squidoo.com

http://www.contestformoms.com/

Upcycle T-shirts and more

2011-10-13T21:31:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've seen all the up-cycled t-shirt patterns around. There are patterns to make purses, pillows, dresses and so much more. Here are a few you should check out.

featured on the Howjoyful blog

featured on Our-Everyday-Art

featured on Tea Rose Home

Is it FALL yet?

2011-09-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

I love Autumn, I love everything about it

cooler days
the colors
the clothes
boots
decor
the food

Here are just a few of my favorites.

color palette

sweaters + boots = fall

Decor

balsamic and onion pot roast

What are your favorites?

Weekly Calendar

2011-09-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

I found this on Kristy's blog Next To Heaven.
It is an adorable idea for a dry erase board weekly calendar.
She gives all the details on her blog so please check it out.

I use one for our weekly menu What's for Dinner?

I'm sure there are lots of other uses, chore charts, family notes...what would you use it for?

Follow me on Pinterest

2011-09-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

I just added a "Pinterest" button here to the left. You can get yours here
Check it out here. Cheers to Kate from DDGDaily for alerting me to this!]

It was really easy, only one step.

Stop by my boards, leave a comment and I will follow back~

Make your own....

2011-08-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

It's amazing what you can learn on your own. With a little hunting and the search button you can make, create or recreate almost anything. Here are a few things I've found and plan on "making my own" some may work others may not but it will be fun trying. If you have any that you use please share!

Body Scrub

Martha's Bathtub Fizzies

If you're really ambitious Laundry detergent

Gifts from the kitchen

make your own Mod Podge

Gel Room Fresheners

art supplies

Baked Apple Rings

2011-08-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

This looks so good. I found the recipe from Howto-simplify for these baked apple rings on Pinterest, you know my newest obsession. They look easy and yummy AND it's a fruit right?
Try it and let me know what you think-

Source: howto-simplify.com via PaperFlora on Pinterest

The Perfect Palette

2011-08-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

If you love color (who doesn't?) this is the place to stop. The Perfect Palette has the most exhaustive selection of color palettes you could imagine.
And you don't have to be planning a wedding these palettes will work for decorating, sewing, painting or any where you need inspiration with color selections.
AND I am so excited to say they featured my clutches on their blog today! I am so excited and honored.

Please go to the Blog and follow there or through Twitter and Facebook. You won't be sorry!

Color Pops at Pinterest

2011-08-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

New silk clutch collection from PaperFlora

I've been introduced to Pinterest....I love it.
It took some time to figure out all the great things I could do with this new resource.

I kept thinking that it was like an inspiration board limited to 5-6 pictures and I couldn't figure out why you'd follow someone.

I had to start thinking of it as a storage file so instead of finding a great idea, picture or item then copying it, making a file and storing it in that file on your computer you can install a "pin it" button in your nav. bar. Every time you see something you like you hit the "pin it" button which clips it and takes you to pinterest. It then asks where you'd like to store it, that's what the "boards" are for. They are like files and if it's a flower you might have a flower board, or if it's someplace you'd like to travel to you'll have a travel board, a recipe you want to try you have a recipe board...

Now the good thing about it is it saves all the info about the item so if you use it on your blog or anywhere else all the correct link info and credits are there too.

Now as far as following someone, I guess that's personal preference and you can follow a single board or an entire person. You can pick individual items from within their boards and add to your own.

window display at Zinnia in South Pasadena CA.

It may sound confusing but once you start playing around it's really fun. But it could also be just one more thing to get compulsive about too!

Calling all my "redo" friends

2011-07-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

I bought this cabinet at a yard sale a few weeks ago with the intent of bringing it back to life but now I don't know what to do. Should I paint it, white wash it, color block, decoupage...do you see my dilemma there's too many choices!

I'd love your suggestions-

chalkboard pendant tutorial

2011-07-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

How cute is this?

Click the link here chalkboard pendant for the tutorial on how to make this adorable pendant.

Let me know what you'd use it for?

I spy with my little eye....

2011-07-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

I love it when I come across random things in the city. I've driven by this mural many times I just love it.

I think because it reminds me of a very special little girl I know. Then one day my special friend was with me in the car as we drove by and I had to take a picture of the two of them.

Just wanted to share

2011-07-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

Some of my new favorite things~

Ruffles romper from Etsy shop Dream Spun Kids

Rose felt pillows from Etsy shop That Funky Boutique

Vanilla Butter Cake from Etsy shop The Tiny Kitchen

DRAMA...drama...drama

2011-07-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

I made the huge mistake last January, you know the month that all things are new and possible, to say to myself "this year I am going to live a simpler life".
I know that can mean a lot of different things to different people so let me clarify. I wanted to eliminate those things that;
1. Caused drama
2. Were deemed, by me, to not particularly add joy
3. Things that were "time stealer'
4. Things that were not honoring to God
5. Coveting my fellow bloggers- interiors, finished projects , wonderful ideas, and yes homemade meals.

I thought if I could rid myself from most of those things my life would run smoother and my life would some how be better, simpler, easier.

Well it's 6 months later and all those"good intentions" have fallen by the wayside. Not for my lack of trying. I have made one huge observation. A lot of the drama that is in my life comes from other people and my obsessive need to fix their problems. Anybody else have this problem??

beautiful touches

2011-06-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

This room is beautifully decorated and full of ideas you could you for so many occasions.

The lanterns are an easy way to make any room look special. And I love the way the chairs are decorated with the simple sash across the back.

If you'd like to see more check this blog out Sound track to I Do

The deconstruction of a Wedding...wedding gown Part 2

2011-04-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

It's all done...boxed and shipped! And it only took me about 5 months!
I received a lot of comments about my recycling project and it has been a project close to my heart. I want to update you and share some photos so you can see what actually became of Ami's wedding gown.
If you remember in my original post "deconstruction part 1"
Ami had asked me to make ring pillows for her 4 children out of her wedding gown. I told here I would gladly do it and maybe I could think of a few other things they might like as well.
So after working with the dress, measuring & brainstorming this is what I designed.

I made 4 ring pillows. Each pillow is made using the fabric from the front of the dress. I used the appliqued pieces from the sleeves, lace from the border and designed fabric flowers from the fabric, tulle and netting.
Each is a little different from simple to more elaborate. Because if Ami's children are anything like mine, they each have very different and distinctive taste!

Next I made 4 garters. Again each ranging from plain to more ornate. The flowers are made from the dress fabric with beaded centers. We added a touch of blue just in case.

You might be thinking that's not a lot of items from a huge wedding gown. Because I thought the same thing. But here is what I learned, there isn't a lot of plain fabric on a wedding gown almost everything has some kind of detail and embellishment and you can't sew on or over sequins, lace and beading.

After I finished these projects I wanted to make something special for Ami, it was her dress she sacrificed after all. I couldn't think of anything that would be appropriate for "the mother of the bride". Then I thought....duh....I make purses, why not make a purse? So here it is a little clutch for her to hold, a little piece of her dress that she could have all to herself.
I used what little fabric I had left, removed the lace, beaded applique and attached to the front of her keepsake. I enclosed a little note saying "For Ami, this embellishment was taken off the front bodice of your dress. It was close to your heart when you wore this dress and I hope it will be close to your heart again".

From chicks to chalk!

2011-04-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Aren't these adorable. If you haven't seen or used chalkboard paint you have to give it a try. It comes in a spray can or quart size. You can get it at your local home improvement store. All you do is spray or paint it on with a brush and let dry. Then find some chalk and have fun.
I've used it on our kitchen wall & inside the pantry door.
What would you do with a can or quart of the magical stuff? I'll start of with a fun idea, please leave your own idea below~
How about painting an old tray and making it a portable chalkboard for your little ones!

Color, color and more color...

2011-04-07T17:14:00.000-07:00

I thought I 'd get a heads up this year and spend a week designing and making a few new styles and colors of clutches. With Mother's Day getting close I wanted to get a back stock ready so I can just ship out individual sales quickly while I work diligently on my special orders.
I brought back our large cosmetic bag but this time lined it with a thick fleece interfacing which gives it more body and weightiness (wow, didn't think that was really a word). I took lots of pictures and posted them in the shop and have gotten a lot of "convos" about them.
If you didn't already know, the hottest new colors for interior and accessories are gray and yellow. You'll see it everywhere just keep your eyes open.
I knew from my days long ago in my fashion merchandising classes in college that there is a Color Marketing Group . You may remember from the movie The Devil Wears Prada when Meryl Streep explains to Anne Hathaway why she happens to have a particular shade of blue sweater on...

It's not a coincidence that interior design, housewares, clothing, furniture... are all coming out in the same color palette. It's because that has been decided on by those in charge of "color" a long time ago. It just happens to take a while for it to trickle down from their offices on 5th Ave. to our local Target store!
The CMG even has a fun interactive board that will suggest names of colors depending on if you are trying to sell to men or women His and Her Colors , check it out it's fun.

So remember the new black is now gray!

Calling all wannabe Chef's!!

2011-03-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I love to cook.
I love everything about it from the grocery shopping to the prep to the actual plate-ing...what I don't like is the clean up.
Unfortunately I don't always have enough time to even think "what is for dinner?" let alone shop, prep and cook it.

I have found a life saver that is fun, easy and delicious! If you are lucky enough to have a Trader Joe's store near you, you'll need to get this cookbook.
The theory behind the book is that Trader Joe's sells lots of unique sauces, pre-chopped veggies, and other "half-prepped" ingredients that would normally take you a significant amount of time to prepare on your own. So combining the "half-prepped" ingredients and the recipes in the cookbook, you can whip up wonderful meals, salads, appetizers and drinks in a fraction of the time!

Some recipes have less than 5 ingredients. The cookbook has lots of great pictures and easy to read instructions.

Mangia !!

Part 1 "The Deconstruction of a Wedding..."

2011-03-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

...wedding gown that is that is!
A sweet woman contacted me a few months back in my Etsy shop. She mentioned she liked my style and loved the fabric flowers that we make and wanted to suggest a project. Ami wanted to know if I'd be interested in taking her wedding gown apart and use it to make keepsakes for her children's weddings. I was so excited about the opportunity. After getting a few more details worked out, she shipped me her wedding gown. When I took it out of the huge box it was amazing. It had bead work and sparkles, lace and buttons....

I hung it up in my studio (extra bedroom for those of you who know me). And there it hung all white and sparkly, but also worn and dated. Dated just in style, the huge bow that went across the back of the dress was a tall tail sign this dress didn't just come off the fashion runways.
Every time I entered the room it would call out to me...today? Is today the day we are going to get started? I had sooooo many ideas in my head that I didn't know where to start. So a few weeks ago I brought her out so that I could really see what I was working with.

Ami wanted ring pillows, 4 of them, and anything else that I thought would work. I thought of maybe using the lace and making garters or lots of flowers with the trims and embroidery.

When I sorted through all my ideas and decided to just plunge in and make the first cut it was a difficult task. I'd have my scissors in hand ready to take that first snip but just couldn't do it. I kept thinking of how important this dress was. How much time did Ami spend picking out this perfect dress? How she must have loved every detail (even the big butt bow). I thought of who buttoned up all those buttons on that special day. And how she must have looked in it.
So put away the scissors and started with a small seam ripper. It was less painful for me. I began to remove the beaded detail of the sleeves one single stitch at a time. It was time consuming, I didn't want to make a mistake and remove beading or sequins...
As I went on, my trepidation turned into excitement as I envisioned what each piece would be used for. I'm still in the process of designing and placement but it's coming along. Take a look and if you have any suggestions please share!

:: Meet Me At Mikes: :: 30 Recipes To Make You Wanna Soup

2011-03-02T00:28:00.000-08:00

Check out all these soup recipes, 30 to be exact.
You'll find something to love.

:: Meet Me At Mikes: :: 30 Recipes To Make You Wanna Soup: "Salt N Peppa Shakers via here Last night we put an extra blanket on the bed. And we had the heater on at the breakfast table. Yo..."

Just Cleaning Up the Blogesphere!!

2011-02-25T19:52:00.000-08:00

Decor8

Last night I was all caught up on my orders so I had a few minutes, that turned into hours, to do something I've been meaning to do for a long time "clean-up" my blogger bookmarks. You know that list of blogs that you just loved but never seem to have the time to go back and read with any regularity.

Living with Lindsey

Well while I was going through my list, clicking on the site, deciding if I really like it enough to keep it on my list or pushing the "delete" button, never to see it again. I was really shocked at how many blogs didn't exist anymore, either the author had deleted it or had just neglected it and hadn't posted for a long time in some cases even years.
It made me think of the whole blogging world and why there are so many. Some very successful others just wither and fade away.

Pretty Little Things

It made me think why do I blog? Is it to make money, no I don't have any adds or sponsors. Is it to create a following in the hopes of being so popular that book deals and special appearances are sure to be in my future? I think not. So why? It started as way to promote my Etsy shop, then it evolved into a bigger platform. I could share a lot more than just about me. I could share things I've learned or seen or love and think you'll like them too. I don't blog with a vengeance, I'm not on a daily or even weekly schedule. I tried that before and it was a terrible disaster too much pressure.
All that to say I want to share some fun, pretty and informative blogs I reacquainted myself with last night. These are just a few of the keepers I have in my favorite list. I think they'll be yours too.

I'd love to know~ why do you blog and which are you favorites?

p.s. don't forget my all time favorites here to the left- just click their blog button!

It looks like spring!!

2011-02-15T09:10:00.000-08:00

I know some of you are still digging yourselves out of inches and inches of snow so I thought I'd send you this little piece of Spring.
This could be the cutest thing I've seen in a long time. Look closely it's all recycled, reused, up-cycled...whatever term they are using today, 1 & 2 liter plastic bottles.

I found it in a wonderful little store ZINNIA in South Pasadena.
Sorry the picture isn't very clear (I took it with my phone) but you'll get the idea.
The artist took plastic bottles (keep the caps on) cut them to resemble all types of flowers just by changing the shape of the petals. He spray painted them so the color was always on the outside of the petals. That way each bloom would look still look shinny. Wire them together and there you have it!
They were so friendly and helpful. He let me take this picture and explained his creative process and said he had no problem letting me take a picture and posting about it "if we inspire you to create then we've done our job"
Take a look at their website. You can see the chandelier in the background.
www.zinnia.biz

DIY project Fabric Flowers

2011-02-11T01:34:00.000-08:00

I had an idea whiz through my head and before it left me forever I wanted to share it with you.

What do you think of DIY fabric flower kit? I was thinking of listing kits consisting of petals, beads and instructions, that you could purchase and stitch together to make your own fabric flowers.
Now that was as far as my thought process went.

I'd love your input on logistics of the whole idea.

And who knows if you leave a comment I may use you as my "kit guinea pigs". I'll need to send out a few free kits to my new friends to work out some kinks before I actually list them.

I've got giveaway on the Brain!

2011-02-07T14:28:00.000-08:00

For all you giveaway lovers just wanted to share a great one you'll want to enter Justine's
free blog makeover! Who doesn't love FREE?

IT'S OUR ANNIVERSARY....sorta

2011-02-01T00:27:00.000-08:00

We have been in business for one year!

Even though we opened our Etsy shop in November we really didn't get it stocked and ready for business until February. And here it is a year later and what a year it has been.

PaperFlora has been a labor of love and a huge learning experience.

We have sold over 350 clutches and have made over 720 fabric flowers!

Somethings I've learned:

I'm a bit of a control freak (no snickering)
I like the design side of business more than all the promoting,marketing & paper work.
You can never have too much fabric.
Be careful what you wish for.

To celebrate our anniversary we are giving away one $20 gift certificate that you can use towards anything in our Etsy shop. All you have to do is leave a comment here and you are entered.

Giveaway runs from 2/1/11 thru 2/14/11 midnight PST

Thank you to all that have supported us here on our Blog, our Etsy shop, Twitter or Facebook

Something Sweet

2011-01-26T20:19:00.000-08:00

With Valentines Day fast approaching I saw these sweets and wanted to share them with you.
If you've never used chocolate melts or candy molds here is your chance. It is really easy to do.

picture from Emmaline Bride

I purchase my chocolate at a local candy/cake decorating shop. You can also purchase melts (that's what they are called) at Michael's or other craft stores.
I melt mine in glass pyrex dishes on a warming plate. It is the perfect temperature to keep the chocolate easy to work with. You can purchase molds in just about any shape and size you can imagine. Try a simple one at first.
Spoon your warm chocolate into the molds, add a paper or wooden stick. Or if a plastic spoon will fit in the candy mold it's looks really cute and it can be used in coffee for a touch of mocha!
Put them in the fridge for just a few minutes and they'll set up quickly.

It can't be a year already!!

2011-01-17T00:02:00.000-08:00

Today is my daughter and son in laws first wedding anniversary! That year went whizzing by.
In honor of their day I'm sharing an older post of our "Etsy Wedding" and don't forget to watch their sneak peek wedding video . Every time we watch we can't believe that it's us!

1-1-11

2011-01-01T10:48:00.000-08:00

Well here we are in 2011!
With all it's firsts not to mention just the date alone 1-1-11.
Do you get the feeling of a new start with each Jan. 1st or do you just keep moving along as before?
Do you start that new diet, pledge to be "a better ______" you can fill in your own blank. Or are you one of the many who think it's just another day no need for big life changes?

I'm going to make a few resolutions this year that don't have a lot to do with me.
1. I'm going to visit more blogs and leave comments where ever I go. I know I appreciate a little affirmation I'm sure others would too.

2. I'm going to spread the word about other great sites I see. Either through Twitter or here on the blog.
So if you have something going on please let me know I'd love to help you get the word out!

3. I'm not going to play the blog numbers game...how many visits, how many followers, how many...

What about you what are you going to do or not do?

Things I'll do better next year!!

2010-12-13T20:40:00.000-08:00

I know that Christmas isn't even here yet, and you may be asking yourself "what is she worried about next year for?" Because that's the way I am! Always looking ahead which isn't always a good thing.
BUT back to my question-
What will you do differently next year to either be more prepared, spend less money or just for some stress relief?
Please share your ideas so that we can all gain from each others experience (disasters). It doesn't just have to be in your home, how about your work place, your church or neighborhood.

I'll start first- What I'd do differently? I'd take people up on their offer to help without thinking that I have to do it all. I have a lot of talented friends who could and would do things much better than I can! When someone asks if they can help, I'm going to say "Yes, thank you!"

What about you?

Etsy Front Page

2010-12-12T16:11:00.000-08:00

We made the front page of Etsy today.

Our silk clutch is one of my favorites. It doesn't photograph as beautiful as it is in person, the crystal detail is really pretty and it's the perfect shade of gray.

You can do it!

2010-11-30T16:12:00.000-08:00

I have learned in the creative world there is no such thing as an original idea. You may think you just thought up the most unique crafting idea only to find out there are talented artists who have been doing it or designing it for a long time.
When I first started my Etsy shop I was very concerned with not sharing any of my design secrets, as if no one could just Google it and find out how to do it on their own anyway.

Just look around any of the Etsy, Artfire or any of the handmade online stores and you will find vendor after vendor selling almost the exact same items.
Oh well I guess there's enough consumers out there for everyone.

All that to say I wanted to share with you my latest design and show you how you could make it too.

These little shabby chic -esque flowers are simple and can be used for so many things. I made them in 2 different sizes here I'm going to show you the smaller 2"x2" size.

First thing is you'll need coordinating fabrics I used 4 different patterns.

Cut 7 pieces into 2"x2" squares.
Then round out the corners so you'll have 7 circles.

Next fold the circles in 1/2 and then in 1/2 again so you'll get a small triangle. Secure with a pin do the same to 3 more.

I tack them with just a few stitches at the end so they don't come apart. It's a simple step that will avoid any headaches later on.

Using one circle for your base start attaching the triangle pieces to the base by gluing them one by one. Until you have four going all the way around the base.

The two center petals are folded in 1/2 with right sides together. And instead of folding them into a triangle just take a little dart at the bottom. I do this because I've found that when the center petals open up you'll be able to see the right side of the fabrics.

Once you have attached all six petal pieces let the glue dry completely. Then with your fingers fluff the petals up so that the edges get a bit ragged around the edges.

3"x3" squares

2"x2" squares

And there you have it. It's easy and really cute! But if you still don't want to try stop by my Etsy shop where you can order a few!

Cyber Monday Sale

2010-11-28T23:26:00.000-08:00

Cyber Monday SALE

Today everything in the shop is 15% off

at check out use code cybermonday15

hurry sale ends at midnight.

I hate new carpeting!!

2010-11-14T22:40:00.000-08:00

I know that's a weird title. I guess it's not the new carpet I hate it's moving the packing... all the stuff you have to do in order to get the new carpet. And yes I know there are a lot of people who would love to have new carpeting in their homes so let me explain what I mean...
To me getting new flooring is like moving except you don't get a bigger or better house you just move all your stuff from one side of the house to another and then have to move it back again. And who do you think is going to have to do most of the packing and sorting and moving and lifting....yup me!! And you know once you get something new it makes everything else in your house dirty and tired looking.

Soooo.... I've decided this would be a perfect time to set up a new "sewing studio" in the extra bedroom. Which has been a catch all, close the door, don't know what to do with it put it in there room. Up to about a year ago it was my youngest daughters room. When my oldest daughter got married my youngest moved her things (promptly) to the big room her sister once resided in.
So let me show you all the things I have been purchasing to make my "studio" perfect.

First the walls are a very pretty bright blue I think it's called Maiden Voyage. I spent Friday at Barnes and Noble perusing the shelves for decorating ideas. Found a great book/magazine Cloth Paper Scissors it had lots of ideas.

Then I went to my favorite Etsy stores to make the room "handmade" here is what I bought...

http://www.etsy.com/shop/BubbaAndDoodle?ref=seller_info

I'm going to put this decal on one wall and make a white pin dot on each place that we have shipped our items too.

I love this chalkboard decal. I thought it would be perfect over my cutting table.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/studiojk?ref=seller_info

I also loved these scissors, ordered it in black, too cute!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/baffinbags?ref=seller_info

I bought a cube unit to hold all my stuff and then found these adorable baskets to use in a few of the cubes. These are the exact colors I'm using in the ~~extra bedroom~~ work studio.

So what do you think? Now I can't wait for the men to come in and rip out the old carpet put down the new carpet so I can start decorating!! I love new carpeting!!

Happy Anniversary, Happy Anniversary, Happy Anniv........

2010-11-11T20:10:00.002-08:00

You're showing your age if you started singing the blog title to the catchy little tune Fred Flinstone sang to Wilma on their anniversary!

November 19 is our first Etsy Anniversary!

(we actually didn't begin selling until after my daughters wedding in January

http://visualmasterpiece.blogspot.com/2010/02/lauren-jimmys-wedding.html

but we're going to celebrate anyway)

Now what to do, what to do? Do you have any ideas?

Off to plan something fun (and free)

to share with all of my blogging friends!

Check back and help me spread the word!

Our 100th order!!

2010-11-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

Last week we received our 100th order!!

To celebrate we designed a new line of clutches. I love pink and brown together and these fabrics maybe my favorite. I know I say this every time but I think these are my favorites.

Just listed them today http://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperFlora

Etsy Front Page

2010-10-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

With the help from a friend we made it to the front page, again!! It's always a nice place to be.

"Inspiration"

2010-10-15T17:18:00.000-07:00

"inspiration" that's one of my favorite words. I also love "extravaganza". It's a silly word but fun to say and look at.

Where does inspiration come from?
Well it could be just about any place. Maybe something you see just in passing, a memory or something in nature that's organic in source. Or it could be just the way things happen to happen!
I get asked a lot "how did you think of that?" What they really want to know is where did you get the inspiration for colors or fabric combinations. I have to admit its usually because I love something, a fabric, print or color. And sometimes its just there in front of you.

Last week we had an order for a flower pack in gold and ivory tones. I was working on the petals layering and forming them. When I've got them looking the way I want I pin it to my daughters funny looking, lumpy black pillow and she sews the beads on and then brings them back. And that's when I got the idea for this design. I'll take you through the steps and you can see how I process it through to the end.
Once I decide what "look" I want the pillow to have (in this case elegant, chic & sparkle) I start pulling ribbons, fabrics, beads, notions, anything that I think will go well together. I try a variety of colors and textures.
Then I start playing around with all the fun stuff I've gathered.

I usually start with a bow but you don't always see it in the end result but it's there.

Then I start pinning flowers on placing them here and there. Changing them out with others that may have more color or a different size or shape.

After I have them in the place I think looks the best, I start adding other elements, draping, cutting some end up on the design others might have better luck next time.

I secure the ribbon that the bride and groom can tie there rings to but hopefully only use it for pictures and send a faux set down the isle.

Then attach the rest of the embellishments until it's finished.

And there you have it. A one of a kind accessory for your little ring bearer.

How do you get inspired? Share so we can all have a peek inside!

A New Thing or Two

2010-10-10T17:33:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting to share this with you for just the right time of year and it almost passed my by.

marthastewart.com

I love an easy party decoration that makes an impact is out of the ordinary and is easy to do! I found one that I know you can duplicate and use for a lot of different occasions.
Aren't these adorable? They are honeycomb tissue balls taken to a whole new level.

I used them to decorate for my nieces wedding shower. We hung them at entrance to set the mood of the occasion and then hung them from the tree's in the backyard.

Now here is the good part they are super simple to make.

You will need:
honeycomb tissue balls 9", 12", 14", 19"

1/4" ribbon

glue and or stapler

I purchased the tissue balls from an online store http://www.partycheap.com/SearchResults.asp?Search=honeycomb+tissue+balls
they had the best selection of colors the best price and I could purchase them individually.

1. Decide how you would like them to hang. Experiment with the sizes, you don't always have to arrange them largest to smallest. My favorite 12"-14" 12" 9"

marthastewart.com

2. lay them out flat on the floor or long table in the order you would like them to hang.
3. Lay the ribbon down the inside seam of the tissue leaving enough ribbon at the top use to hang.
4. Staple the ribbon to the tissue tabs that are in the center of each ball.
5. I also dabbed a little glue just to reinforce the ribbon.
6. Open each ball carefully, using the metal tabs keep each ball open.

And that's it! You could use these for so many occasions- I'm going to get a 12" yellow, 9" orange and 6"white and arrange them to look like candy corn! How cute is that?
If you need more directions visit http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/paper-globe-decorations

What would you use them for?

A New Thing or Two "Whats for dinner?"

2010-09-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Those words can send me running for the hills. Don't get me wrong I enjoy cooking, most of the time, and when my girls were younger I cooked a lot more than I do now. But answering the question "what's for dinner and what are we having tomorrow?" just drove me nuts.

So when I found this project for a Menu Board I had to try it.

What you'll need:

A picture frame with glass (I used an 8.5x11).

One piece of patterned paper, I used scrapbook paper with a small pin dot so that it wouldn't obstruct the writing.

Computer and printer.

10 inches of coordinating ribbon.

Thin point dry erase marker.

Step 1- If your paper isn't trimmed to 8.5x11 trim it so that it will fit in your printer paper tray.

Step 2 - Open up a word processing application (I used Word) and center the word "menu" at the top of the page. Then on the left hand margin type in the days of the week and print.

I printed it a couple of times until I got the word placement just right. When I had it the way I wanted I then placed my scrapbook paper in to print.

Step 3 - Place the printed paper in the picture frame and close the back.

Step 4 - Tie the ribbon around the dry erase pen and attach to the back of the frame. You don't have to do this step but it keeps the pen from getting lost.

And that's it, you are ready to tell the whole family what's for dinner or what you'd like them to make you for dinner.

Mine sits on top of my refrigerator and believe it or not my family checks it when they come in the kitchen!
This also makes a great house warming or thank you gift. And don't forget Christmas is only 88 days away!

Let me know what you think...go give it a try!

Front Page

2010-09-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
just wanted to share our front page with you. We are very excited about it!
It's a beautiful treasury designed by Lucy Snow. She has a beautiful shop on Etsy at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lucysnowephotography

Thanks for including us Lucy!

blog feature

2010-09-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

We are excited and honored to be featured this week at

Our Crazy Boys Blog

Becca has a great blog filled with lots of pictures, stories and info. It's an easy read and on my "blogs I love" list.

She is having a different giveaway every week so check in and see what's up for grabs. It's easy to enter and it's "free". You don't get better than free!

Tell her I sent you!

AND THE WINNER IS

2010-09-08T14:45:00.000-07:00

can you hear the drum roll...

Julie from Callelillycafe

visit her blog here and tell her I sent you!

Thanks to all of you who left comments and suggestions. You are all such smarty pants!

New Contest!

2010-08-29T20:15:00.000-07:00

special order McCall clutch

The last few months have been so hectic. Business is picking up and we've had lots of special orders. This was an order for a bride and her maids, I love the way they turned out and more importantly she loved them too.

We have had a lot of requests for our fabric flower packs. They're our biggest seller. It's no wonder, each one is unique in it's design, layering and beading. It's a slow process from start to finish but each is so beautiful it's worth it.
They are the perfect accessory for taking something drab like a plain dress or t-shirt to fab by attaching them to a neckline, collar or lapel.
You could use them in home decor on a pillow or lampshade. They come in a variety of colors. Each fabric flower pack contains 10 flowers, 3 large, 4 med & 3 small and are available in our Etsy shop for only $14.50.

We haven't had a contest for awhile so we decided to have one this week and give away a 5 pack of fabric flowers.

teal fabric flowers

blush fabric flowers

And entering couldn't be easier!

All you have to do is leave a comment on how you would use these flowers. That's it!

On Sept. 6 at 12p.m. we will select a winner at random from those who have left comments.

assorted colors

So don't forget to comment and help spread the word on Facebook or Twitter.

A NEW THING OR TWO

2010-08-20T10:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy, sad, love filled, heartbreaking month (read 7/14 post)...like everyone says "it gets a little better everyday" I'm slowly getting back to life.

So here is my second "A New Thing or Two"

I don't know about you but Google Analytics is as close to a foreign language as you can get. I understand it has a lot of great information and data on it. I just don't know what it is, how to read it or what to do with it! BUT I just learned one thing that I wanted to pass along to you, it's helped me with scheduling "tweets" on Twitter and with marketing in general...pencils ready???

The best time of day to send out tweets or any kind of networking is the time of the day that your site is getting the most hits, how do you know what time that is? Well I'm going to show you...

1. Log into your Google Analytics click on "view report"
2. On the left side click on "Visitors"
3. Now click on "Visitor Trending"
4. Click "Visits" that will graph out your visits per day. Good to know if you are tracking what days you are getting the most hits. You can also plan a promotion and then track to see if you received more visits because of it.
5. On the upper right hand side there's a row of boxes "graph by:" click on the first one that looks like a clock- And there you have it: a bar graph that shows you what time of day your site gets the most visits.

See, wasn't that easy?
This really helped me when scheduling any kind of online networking. I found out the majority of my visits are between 10pm to midnight, so that's when I want to schedule the majority of my social networking.

Now go give it a try and please let me know what you think...this girl love a good comment!

Renegade Fair

2010-08-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about living in So.Cal is all the fun and interesting things there are to see and do. Now I do have to be honest with you, I've never lived anywhere else. I mean I've never lived outside of Los Angeles County. I lived in the same house from the day my parents brought me home from the hospital to the day I got married. I know there are lots of beautiful places to live I'm just partial to the only one I've lived in.
Well, all that to say a few weeks ago we took the Gold Line to the Renegade Craft Fair.
It was quite an experience. First you know that California is not known for their public transportation, they are trying to change that but it's been a s-l-o-w project. I've only used PT one other time before. But I'll do it again it was great. It dropped you right off at the park the Fair was being held at.

It was smaller than I had expected but still lots of fun, filled with creative, talented crafters and artisans. It was like walking into "Etsy live".

We met some great vendors like;

www.uccellocurioso.etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/shop/chocolateandsteel

Another vendor we met was OhMaFelt what a great time I had talking with her and her husband. They had the most lucious selection of hand-dyed wool felt and customized plush friends. I could have purchased one of everything. You would not believe how beautiful the colors are.


visit her online at OhMaFelt.com or http://www.etsy.com/shop/OhMafelt

We spent some time talking and sharing. They are quite the crafty family, even their daughter helps out, she designed these adorable "thank you" stickers.

We had fun browsing and buying and Gold Line'n.

Next time I'll share the trip to the Rose Bowl Flea Market...yes, that Rose Bowl!

The Big Question

2010-08-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

I've been contemplating what I would write about next. It's been a while since I last posted and I have lots to share with you, but I've also been so busy with "life" that I haven't been able to gather the pictures and info I need, I want it to be interesting and worth your time to read! So I put it on the back burner and will work on them this coming week.

I have been getting more involved with the "crafting community" and supporting other crafter's through visiting and promoting there Etsy shops, http://www.etsy.com/shop/artsyfartsymemories or "RT" there treasuries, http://www.etsy.com/treasury visiting blogs http://dianeestrella.com/ or http://sweetjeanette.blogspot.com/ and commenting and of course through Twitter.

I've seen a lot of beautiful and amazing work, all this has lead me to ask the question...

What is the difference between "homemade" and "handmade"?

Is there a difference? Is it just semantics? Please take a moment and let me know what you think.

Flickr is my friend

2010-07-25T01:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but opening our Etsy shop is a lot more work than I thought it would be. I have had other small business and they've all been successful, as successful and I wanted them to be. I had small children so it was nice to have something that I could do around their schedules that made some money and I enjoyed doing. So when my employer/friend decided to close up her store and I was going to be unemployed, I decided this would be a great time to start something that I really wanted to do, have a shop of handmade items that others would hopefully love as much as we did.

Sounds good right? We decided Etsy would be where we would begin and off we went. I think it was a blessing that we didn't know exactly how much time we were really going to have to spend developing and creating product, searching and shopping for the best prices, learning the Etsy protocol, taking pictures, pictures and more pictures of our items to get that one perfect shot.

Then there is all the time spent building and creating a brand. There's a Blog and Twitter and Facebook and Flickr all this Social Networking which takes up so much time I'm trying to fit in design time AND then when someone purchases something there is Paypal and shipping and all that other stuff. I'm exhausted...and all I wanted to do is make stuff that I liked.

So you are probably thinking where is she going with this ranting, I'll tell you where I'm going, crazy unless I get some help! It's not a bad thing to ask for help, it took me about 40 years to figure that one out. So now who do I ask? I know, I'll go to the specialists those that spend so much time on the internet that I think they'd have withdrawls if they were "disconnected"! Who are these specialist you might ask? My kids and (just like my own) kid...I put one in charge of Twitter, she goes through my followers, gets new followers and keeps things running there. Another is in charge of Facebook, she makes sure things are up to date adds pictures and is scouring Facebook for more "fans". And another one I put in charge of Flickr, I upload all the pics and she tags makes sets and joins groups and updates our pictures. I truly don't know what I would do without my PaperFloretts, they have saved me!!

So now I can say that Twitter, Facebook and Flickr are all my friends...because someone else is in control~

Virtual Shopping

2010-07-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

It has been a difficult week around here. So I thought we needed a little "retail therapy" that always makes me feel a little better, unless it leads to buyers remorse, which is a whole different post.

So off we went to the fabric district in downtown Los Angeles. Like any other BIG city it has all it's little districts scattered throughout, flower district, garment district, fabric district, just to name a few of my favorites.

We were on the hunt for some new fabrics, something we haven't seen around before but of course it had to be a great price.

We went into store after store finding things that we didn't even know existed let alone all the things we didn't even know that we needed!

And prices, well they vary from vendor to vendor and how much you want to haggle.
In some cases, like a dollar a yard, you just go with!!

Here are some of our finds...cute & fun prints and beautiful silks.

Daddy's Girl

2010-07-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

No one will ever love me like my dad did

I miss him

Our First Front Page

2010-07-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my good friend, who I've never met, we have been featured on the front page, and we couldn't be more excited!!

If you'd like to see more handmade items visit Etsy.com
Make sure to stop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/artsyfartsymemories she has lots of adorable things or follow her on twitter at http://twitter.com/artsymemories

Creative Therapy

2010-07-07T00:30:00.000-07:00

Well after the past 5 weeks I think I'm lucky to still have my wits about me. Though some who live in my house may argue with that last statement, I on the other hand believe it to be true. It's been one emergency after another. Talk about high anxiety it's too much to even write about. I have probably aged 3 years...but on the other hand I've lost 5 lbs. I don't think that's a fair trade but whatever...

I have been able to do a little creative therapy the past few days.

I wanted to share with you some of our newest designs. We are now making our zipper clutch in 3 sizes. Great for cosmetic bags, change purse or when you just want to take the essentials. Here are some pic's. Please let me know what you think!

They'll be in the shop this Friday so come by and take a look.

#FF - Blog Hops - New Friend Friday...

2010-07-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

I know you've seen them...you probably have one
Those cute little buttons that advertise your site on another blog."Blog Button".

I thought it would be fun and hopefully profitable for all if I started a blog button trade. I'm sure I'm not the first person to do it, I'm rarely the first person to start anything, but I know a good idea when I see it and I'll run with it.
I'm not real big into rules so I'm just going to list a few "guidelines" and I'll use myself as an example:

If you like my blog and would like to share it with others, grab the link and put it on your blog
Always leave a comment so I can visit your blog- if we are a good fit I'll link your blog too.
Don't just "grab a link" to "get a link"

Now here is where I differ from some of the others in philosophy...promote those you think are like minded or that you find interesting. A blog you think those who follow you would also like. You're saying "friend, if you like me you should visit..."

If you link someones blog and they don't link you back feel free to remove them from your blog. Don't get your "panties all in a bunch" if they don't link you back.

It's not a contest to see how many blog buttons you can gather (it's not POG's, remember those?) It's not a race to have 2 billion followers who mark the "follow" button and never return. It's about reaching out, encouraging, building up, laughing, crying, sharing and learning from one another.

If you like my blog please share it, if you don't that's okay too, just click off to the next one, there's plenty out there!

Red, White and Blue Idea

2010-06-26T17:03:00.000-07:00

Do you have big plans for this 4th of July? Whenever one of the patriotic holidays comes around I always want to make something appropriate to go with the theme. Problem is there's not a lot of blue food. I found this idea and thought it would be easy, some what healthy (it's fruit) and works with the holiday.

1. Melt your favorite white chocolate or candy melts for the store craft or cake decorating store
2. Dip the strawberries half way up the strawberry making sure to let the red of the berry show
3. Dip just the tip of the berry in blue crystal sugar. Most cake decorating stores have sugars in almost any color you need
4. Lay them on sheets of parchment paper or wax paper, they only take a few minutes to harden

And there you have it a Red, White and Blue yummy to share with your friends.

Do you have a favorite holiday dish? Tell us about it in a comment or link us to your site.

2010-06-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Well here it is...my first

"A New Thing Or Two"

this is going to be my attempt to share with you something new that you may not already know. This weekly (but don't hold me to that) post will cover a wide range of my crazy interest. Might be a "how too" "a recipe" or just "something new"
The next two posts I want to share with you my latest time sucking interest Twitter. First let me preface this by telling you I am very, new to the Twitterverse. I am just learning about the in's and outs and the etiquette of the whole Twitter world.

Twitter is not just a 140 character microblog that lets you keep up with your good friend Ashton Kutcher or Kim Kardashin... It is a great way to network, promote and get your product or name out to those you may not have been able to reach without it. BUT that's not the only reason I have found it so fascinating. It is a community of great people that I can call my "friends" women that I will probably never meet face to face. More on that later.

First let me tell you what Twitter is -
A social network - but unlike Facebook you do not need the persons okay to follow them.
You are limited to 140 characters- which doesn't sound like a lot but "u cn b cr8ive".
I'm going to assume you know about how to find people and follow them...
Things to know -
@ - in front of someones account name will allow them to know you mentioned them
# - put in front of a particular word will allow your tweet to show up when someone else is searching for that word
RT - retweet- it's like passing along information, someone you follow sends a tweet you find it interesting or you'd like to help them get the message out, you turn around a re-tweet it to those who follow you. Always a nice thing to do :)
D - sends a direct message to that particular person that only they will see BUT that person has to be following you back for them to receive it.
Don't make the mistake of typing DM and then the message. It goes to Web site called dm fail (http://dmfail.com) which displays them for all to see- angry messages, breakups...ugly stuff.

There is a lot of twitter software you can use- of course the one
that got you started the Twitter screen or

TweetDeck, twhirl, Hootsuite & Twitterfic just to name a few...find one you like or use a few they all have their advantages.
What I really wanted to share with you is a site called Twitterfall www.twitterfall.com Twitterfall searches for keywords and hashtags (#) and automatically updates the results page like a cascading waterfall. So you can find people who are tweeting about something you may want to know about or have an interest in.

This is a picture of the Twitterfall screen. On the left hand side of the screen I have entered a search for "sewing" "etsy" "cooking" each search is given it's own color so that as the subjects come cascading down you can see which one either has that word, sewing, etsy or cooking in it by the color of the tweet box. With Twitterfall the search words do not have to have a # mark in front of it, which makes the search much more broad. And if you see someone you might want to follow, or contact, you can do that too all from this one screen. I have used it a few times and like it a lot, especially for multi-topic searches.

Give it a try and let me know what you think.

Do you have any Twitter advice to share? Please leave a comment.

Next post ..... "more than followers, they're friends!"

What were they thinking?

2010-06-10T19:51:00.000-07:00

You can feel it in the air, it's the last few days of school. Kids are carrying presents for teachers and cupcakes for parties! I always get a little nostalgic when I drive by the elementary schools and see all the students and teachers buzzing around.
It made me think of a bulletin board my daughters teacher had up in the classroom for back to school night, years ago when she was in first grade. Across the top it said "How can you show Love?" each student wrote a sentence and drew a picture of what they thought "showing love" is. I hunted around for my daughters, looking, looking...there it is! I can't really figure out the picture but then when I read the caption it all comes together..."I know my Dad loves my Mom because he holds her hair when she throws-up!"
OMG...I just laughed to myself. I guess we all have our own idea of what we will do for love!

Special Day...Special Order

2010-06-08T23:41:00.000-07:00

Last week we received a special request from a bride in Maryland. She ordered 4 of our medium size clutches. She also needed them asap. We dropped everything and put a rush on her order.

Each bag was made with our most popular fabric, a black cotton that is printed to look like a damask. We lined them with a cute little pink/black on white print. For the bride we lined hers in a pink and black "engagment ring" print.

We received this lovely note from her:

I received the purses today. Thanks so much. They are adorable and the perfect size for the gifts. I'm sure everyone will love them and will certainly be able to reuse them. I'm keeping your business cards in each bag in case they want to browse your wesbite.

Thanks again,

I think it's such an honor when someone selects one of our items to be a part of the most important day of their lives.

A Week of Give Aways and Freebee's

2010-05-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

This week I have the privilege of being part of a week long birthday party at http://dianeestrella.com
Diane is a good friend that I have never met. That may sound peculiar but it happens a lot in the Internet world.

She says..."Another week of giveaways is in store for you to celebrate my birthday and to take my mind off of turning 39….. three times the yuk!" I say to her..."39 isn't that bad, really!"

She has some wonderful gifts lined up, mineral make-up, books, accessories...lots of wonderful things!

So stop by everyday and take a look at what is in store. You can also visit her at her Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/StarrWorks

I'm on Monday so don't miss Monday- shameless plug!

First things First...

2010-05-27T21:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!
and I do mean friends, you have all been so generous with your kind words and encouragement it's been so wonderful.
I have so much to share with you I don't know where to start...this will probably jump all over the place because that's the way my mind has been working lately. You know when you have so many things to say you can't get a full sentence or thought out because another one just came to mind.

First lets talk about my "day to learn something new contest" thanks to all of you that participated you had some very creative and cleaver responses. I'm excited to announce

"A New Thing Or Two"

This will be my attempt to introduce you to something I think you will enjoy knowing, learning or creating. I have been collecting fun things that I hope you'll love and share with those you know.

NOW the winner for the contest is Laurel16!!

As the winner you will receive our new clutch/make up bag. I hope you love it as much as we do!

Something else that I'm excited to share with you is Twitter... I know you are rolling your eyes, Twitter is not new... but it is to me! I've been learning the in's and out's the do's and dont's and the etiquette (yes, there is Twitter etiquette) FF, RT and the importance of #. I hope I can share just a little something about the Twittersphere that is new to you or that will make your Tweets more productive, if you are using them for networking or just more fun if you are just catching up with some Twitter friends.

The other thing I've come to the realization of is that not all my posts have to be long, detailed, include pictures or even have a point :) Freeing myself from those guidelines has really allowed me to think of so much more to share with you. A lot of times I would start a post and just procrastinate because it wasn't an "article". Who cares? Not me!

So that's it for now, I feel so invigorated...come by and check out the new blog posts regularly. I promise I'll try to make them entertaining and helpful!

I haven't forgotten

2010-05-18T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I'm so sorry that I've been neglecting my blog this past week. Wait I just had a thought...who am I really talking too? Is anyone really reading, does anyone really care about my ramblings? I guess I'll never know I'll just keep rambling as if I have an audience.
As I was saying...I have been caught up in some work issues, my place of employment (if you want to call it employment I only work about 10 hours a week and complain as if I worked 60) is closing this week. It's sad, we've been together and worked like a family for over 4 years and to see it end because they just can't make it in this economy is disheartening. AND carving out time to go visit my dad is emotional in itself. I don't ever want to go there because I have a sense of duty, I want go because I get to not because I have to (side note, a few days ago when I was with him the caregiver said what's your name? he looked down then looked at her and said his first and last name!!! he was there for just a minute then gone again into the hell of Alzheimer's) Then I have to, NO I want to make time to create, design and sew the new line of clutches, bags and wedding accessories that we want to get on our Etsy site sometime soon, like yesterday. And then there is just life stuff and family drama that doesn't want to end anytime soon...All that to say after this week, with work, this weekend with the drama I should be free of two things that have been sucking the life out of me. I'm being a bit dramatic but I'll be glad when it's Monday :)

So if you are still here (all three of you) and you'll hang in I'll be back on Monday to start some new things on the blog, announce some winners, maybe show you "a new thing or two" hint hint...and as I write and ramble and expose my dysfunctional and sometimes amusing life I'd love to hear from you.

Meanwhile I'll leave you a picture of the new fabric I purchased it says it best...

Move over Kate Spade...

2010-05-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week around here. I have been sewing up a storm, in between all the other things I have to do because the grocery shopping, house cleaning, dinner making and blog writing gnomes have apparently gone on strike.
We have had such a great response to our little bags, we sold out of all of them this past weekend, that we have decided to design a lot more for our Etsy shop.
We are going to be working on complete lines that will include ring pillows, clutches, hair accessories...that will all go together without being too matchy-matchy.

It takes a long time to design a color scheme, create product & photograph everything, price it and then promote, promote, promote...

You may have noticed something new, I hope you noticed...it's our new label. I'm so excited we worked with Monkey Graphics by Kerry http://www .etsy.com/shop/MonkeyGraphics. She was such a joy to work with she designed the label to match our logo perfectly, we couldn't be happier.

These bags aren't just for wedding party's though I do think a bridesmaid would love a little memento and thank you from the bride. BUT they would be great for Teacher Appreciation, Birthdays, Sorority Sisters, Bunco prizes...or just a little something for yourself.

leave a comment and let me know what you think~

WOW.. What a Weekend

2010-05-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

You won't believe the weekend I had. BUT first I want to thank all of you that entered my impromptu
contest/dare. It was fun to see every one's guesses. At first you scared me with the numbers you were guessing, I thought I was being a slacker you seemed to have so much faith that I would get soooo many done. I wanted to say "ladies, they have zippers, darts they are fully lined and have interfacing.." but I didn't want to make excuses.

So I started sewing and things were going well. I set up my assembly line began to sew, everything is going along smoothly...that should have been my first clue!
I got about half way through the first color batch when everything went dead. Yup we blew a circuit, everything came to an abrupt hault. I had to help my husband reconnect the necessities, refrigerator the big TV. There were extension cords and wires connecting this to that and from here to there.

So I couldn't get back to my sewing for quite a while. Oh well it was a good try. When all things got figured out I got back to sewing but didn't get much done. My highest guess was 54...the lowest 16.
I finished 6 bags, yup only 6. And my winner is Peggy from http://playingwithtexture.blogspot.com

Well some good things came out of all of it, I made some new friends here on the blog, we are getting new electrical plugs that were needed. I got some great promotion and sold out of all the bags that were on the Etsy site, and I made one of my favorite bags so far.

Tell me what you think...

24 hours... it's a contest and a personal dare!

2010-05-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I already have a contest going but something just jogged my brain.
I have etched out a couple of days to do nothing but create and sew. Now I have done this before and not gotten much accomplished because I keep getting swept up into the Twitter/Blog/Etsy Vortex...yes, you know what I mean... walking by the computer and seeing something that makes you click, and then click, and again, only to find yourself on some random blog somewhere finding out some random piece of information that you didn't know you needed to know...I do it all the time!

So as the first day of my "get somethings accomplished" weekend I have been working on the new line of small make-up bags. So cute, perfect for teacher gifts, bunco gifts, thank you, bridesmaids, sorority...just good things to have around the house when you need a quick gift but don't have time to run to the store. And the good news they are under $10.

I am going to challenge myself to use my time wisely and get as much done as I can. But we should still have some fun!
I want you to guess how many of these I will get done by this time tomorrow. So at 5:00pm today I'll start counting and I'll stop counting at 5:00pm tomorrow. You just need to leave a comment here and give me a number.
I'll announce the winner tomorrow evening and the prize too. Send this to your friends so they can join in. And don't worry if someone already has your number. I'll have multiple prizes, 'cause that's the kind of girl I am!!

And as a special gift to all of you...if decide to order a few of these (or anything else) on our Etsy site http://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperFlora mention "vortex" in your convo and you'll get free shipping. See everybody wins!!

Only A Few Days Left

2010-05-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

Only a few days left to enter my "name this post" I've had 19 entries so the odds of you winning are pretty darn good!

All the information is in the post below here are just the highlights;

Here is how to enter and get points.

1. Comment and submit a name (1 pt)
2. Tweet this post to your friends (1 pt for every time you tweet)

3. Mention this contest on your blog (4 pts)
4. Place PaperFlora grab button on your blog (5 pts)

(make sure that you let me know if you have done #3 or #4 so I can give you the extra points)

The contest ends Monday, May 10th. So come on and be a good
sport and help me name this...there is a prize involved and it's
a good one :)

A Day To Learn Something New Contest

2010-04-29T18:51:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you have been on a lot of blogs that have designated a topic for certain days of the week     (i.e. Tutorial Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday...you get the idea). So I was thinking, maybe I should do that, I'd think of something crafty to share with you or something luscious and gooey you'll want to make, or a photo so profound and thought provoking it would haunt you for days.

Then I remembered my whole "posting everyday" fiasco (see below) which only last 4 days because the stress of it all stifled my creativity and I ran out of witty things to say. So I rethought the idea, instead of limiting myself to a particular day of the week, I'm going to share something weekly. Just something I think you would like to do, share or see.
NOW here is the part where you come in...I need a name for this little adventure. I know how all of you love a contest so there will be two winners & prizes.

1. For the actual name chosen
                  2. For the person with the most points

Here is how to enter and get points.

1. Comment and submit a name (1 pt)
2. Tweet this post to your friends (1 pt for every time you tweet)

3. Mention this contest on your blog (4 pts)
4. Place PaperFlora grab button on your blog (5 pts)

(make sure that you let me know if you have done #3 or #4 so I can give you the extra points)

The contest will begin now and run through Monday, May 10. So go put on your "thinking caps" and tell all your friends to do the same.

If there is a tie winner will be picked at random.

Here are just a few of the things I have been working on to share with you in the upcoming weeks

custom candy bar wrappers individual spice chalk pots

tissue balls

picture Martha Stewart

One more try

2010-04-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to start a new line of clutches and matching accessories for weeks now. I have scheduled the last two weeks with days that are devoted to creating and designing but wouldn't you know it every time something comes up to interfere with my plan. And these aren't just little minor interferences these are big all day things that I just can't say no to.
Today was one of those days. I spent last night cutting all my fabrics, stacking all the pieces together, color coordinating all the accessories and this morning I was going to start on the new pieces first thing. Only to get a phone call that my mom needed me to drive her "in to town" as she calls it. The rest of us here call it Los Angeles. She drives but she's been under a lot of stress lately (read below) I just don't think she wanted to drive 45 minutes by herself. So off I went, hoping to get back in time to really get some thing done. I returned and finally got a piece completed. I'm so excited. The first one always takes the longest and once I get all the kinks worked out it will be a breeze (she says hopefully).
What do you think?

Button, Button who's got the Button??

2010-04-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

There are certain things that I just love that have no explanation. Things like fabric & fabric stores, paper all kinds, wrapping, cards, printed. I even love stationary stores with all their tablets and pencils and every king of pen you could ever think of. I love ribbon and buttons these things make me down right giddy. I know it's not just me, I've seen others in the fabric store walking around in some kind of textile high.

One of my favorite things to hunt for are buttons, I can't get enough buttons.
I do believe this may be hereditary trait because I remember my mom having a mason jar of old buttons on her desk. With all the colors and shapes just there to look at. And my grandmother, who sewed lingerie for one of the manufactures in L.A., had lots of buttons too.
My grandmother was of the generation of repair and wear. You didn't throw away a sock with a hole in it you darned it and fixed the hole. She put patches on pants, stitched up a seam, let down a hem. Always getting more wear out of an outfit than we would ever imagine now a days. In today's world she would be called "green".

When an item had been let out or in, up or down as much as feasible possible and it had to be thrown away she would cut off all the hook and eyes and all the buttons and thread them together so that they could be used on something else. I have a lot of the buttons in an old tin she had at her house for years. They are so fun and have so much personality. Some still tied together with string ready for the next outfit. I pull them out when I think about decorating a card, tag or package, I fumble around for just the right color or size for the job.

But you know what, I've never actually used one on any project. You have to be so deserving of one of these gems I just haven't found anyone to be "button worthy". I just can't get myself to part with any of them, they are like little treasures they are priceless to me.

What A Mess

2010-04-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Life can get so messy sometimes and then throw in some people and it can get worse, and family, worse yet...agh!

These past few weeks have been filled with some of the most life altering & difficult decision making situations I think I have ever encounter. My father has Alzheimers (see below) and we had to place him in a memory care facility. That was awful, saddest day of my life, so far. Then some other things happened that were heart wrenching and a betrayal that I still can't comprehend (my husband would like me to mention, right here, it's not him) I was sitting at lunch with my mom today, neither of us saying a word, we'd just look at each other and giggle because it was just so unbelievable. I thought this was made for TV movie kind of stuff. I can't go into any details but just when you think it can't get any worse, it does. Sometimes being a grown up stinks!
What do you do when you can't seem to make any sense out of the mess? I know what I have to do, and that is rely on God to get me through. I can try to handle it and make things happen, I usually make it worse. I can try to forget about it until it becomes the only thing I can think about. I can even manipulate a situation so that I look like the winner, but then I'm doing no better than what has been done to me. I am best when I am still and let Him take over. It's taken me a long time to learn that lesson. I wish I was a faster learner, I could have saved a lot of heartache, struggle and time trying to work things out myself. I can never do what He can do. His thoughts are not my thoughts. So after some squirming and sometimes some tugging I feel confident that it will all work out much better than I had ever hoped or could have planned (manipulated) for.
Now comes the hardest part for me....waiting! I'm not good at waiting. I don't think waiting is a natural state of being, for anyone. That's why people tap their fingers on things, or push the button on the "walk" signal 15 times instead of just once, why there is a 10 items or less line. No one wants to wait! So at least I'm in good company right?

Grab it!!

2010-04-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

I've got a grab button!! I know a lot of you have them already, I'm a little behind the times.
I'm excited and hope that those who follow and enjoy my ramblings will share my site on your blog with this button.
Thanks to adori graphics for the design http://www.adorigraphics.com

Project Runway

2010-04-16T14:52:00.000-07:00

Have you seen that bumper sticker that reads "Yes, this is my truck, NO I won't help you move!"
I think I'm going to have one made that reads "Yes, I can sew, NO I won't make you curtains!"

I learned to sew when I was about 12 years old. It was summer time and my mom (who sewed) signed me up for a sewing class at the local school. I really liked it and I was good at it. I made my own clothes, bathing suits, you name it I could make it. When I was pregnant I made all my maternity clothes, because back then they were ugly, lace, puff sleeves and bows, I was having a baby I didn't want to dress like one.
For the her nursery I made pillows, stuffed animals, all her little layette clothes and yes, curtains.

I don't know why I liked sewing so much it contained math and math is not my friend. But I am good at fractions and I know that came from figuring out yardage.

That's when my love for fabrics began. You can never have too many pieces of beautiful fabric, really you can't. I can walk around a fabric store and just look at all the bolts of colors and prints that I just love. I have quite a collection luckily they don't take up too much room.
It must be in my blood, I was at my mom's the other day and up in her closet was a clear plastic box with really cute brown, beige and blue plaid fabric. I pulled it down and she said "oh, yes, that's a jumper I was going to make for you but just never got around to it" the pattern was (and is) still pinned to the fabric. The pattern size is 6x!! Let's just say that was awhile ago.

I have made some patterns in the past and have just started doing that again. It's a lot harder than it looks. So, I probably won't be asked to be on the next season of "Project Runway" oh well there always the "Housewives of Los Angeles"

Posting Everyday ???

2010-04-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to challenge myself to posting everyday...what was I thinking?
It's a lot of work to post everyday. I have a part (very part) time job, my family, husband and Ollie the dog (see below) my dad, my mom and all the endless conversations about them with my siblings, especially now (see below). That doesn't include the house, the shopping, going here and there. You know all the daily things you do that really don't account as much but take up your entire day! The things you do that when people ask "what do you do all day?" you don't want to list 'cause it sounds like nothing but it took all day! Not to mention keeping up with designing of our Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperFlora and all the promoting, tweeting, promoting, promoting...And heaven forbid finding time to do something fun that I want to do and how about my friends??
Well all of that to say I'm not going to add more pressure to my life by adding another unrealistic goal. It's hard to post everyday, I'm a busy girl and my life just really isn't all that interesting that I can find something to write about. So I am learning from my friend Nicole (see below) that I'm not going to add undue pressure and unrealistic demands on my time. Not that I'm trying cure world hunger in my spare time, really, I'm just trying to find some time to breath.
So I'm going to go back to my regular posting of a couple times a week, or more if I find something fascinating.
I'm going to take the day off tomorrow and check back in with you the next day. Oh I feel the stress just melting away NOT, just wanted you to think "is she for real?"

A big {{ HUG }} back at ya!!

2010-04-13T22:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much for your sweet comments and tweets filled with love and compassion.
When I posted about my father (check below) everything was so raw and new I just wanted to scream. But instead I threw down some words here in the blog world. Sometimes it's just easier to be raw to someone you probably will never meet.
So I thought I'd give you a short update. My dad looks good and is already adjusted. It's a caring & loving facility, filled with kind people both those who work there and the other "guests" who live there.
I went to visit him today and he was doing well. He doesn't know who we are, he can't say that's my daughter, he just knows he likes us!
We had dinner together, took a little walk around the "neighborhood" (that's what it's called) and watched a little TV. When I had to leave, which is always the hardest time for me, he just said okay, gave me a kiss on both cheeks the way he always did and waved goodbye and went back to watching his TV show.
I walked away fighting back tears but knowing it was going to be okay.
In my mind, I live in the past, present and future, he only lives in the present and that's a good place for him.