tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46927143939761938692024-02-06T23:15:52.011-05:00PaperLark StudioAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-79001185512899804572015-01-26T11:22:00.001-05:002015-01-26T11:22:28.882-05:00VISIT OUR NEW HOME<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.paperlarkstudio.com/blog/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvgZWK4yd1IGnSm4-5KLj87cKZUgw4qaaKE5B7T43sCMVwaQ88nzZi-IRbw_Q_4LCZVj88vvZVoMAh8Z_7stS0tAy6EVCDCJz42aL6k23xMmfcWzDGm7743BsQk0oWs9p2X1nj7nEAUlI/s1600/BloggerTeaser.jpg" height="454" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2>
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/blog-paperlark-studio-13518213">FOLLOW ON BLOGLOVIN'</a> / <a href="http://www.paperlarkstudio.com/blog/">NEW BLOG</a></h2>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-60921964632860785002015-01-20T12:05:00.000-05:002015-01-20T12:05:10.221-05:00Three Steps to Successfully Tackling a Branding Makeover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpPIPmmCpu-EfcrmZr0Ebia31yH6h1wFTAhyphenhyphenqy6RySbXJQ2e7A5maoAk9EeD-sPIHAde_G4ECQDycfJ73GycpT1JcgFjt8zA3FTF3vr2kQbY1YRPqsoz3ByP5t-shgJHLXIyi3LCcMps/s1600/BrandingMakeover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpPIPmmCpu-EfcrmZr0Ebia31yH6h1wFTAhyphenhyphenqy6RySbXJQ2e7A5maoAk9EeD-sPIHAde_G4ECQDycfJ73GycpT1JcgFjt8zA3FTF3vr2kQbY1YRPqsoz3ByP5t-shgJHLXIyi3LCcMps/s1600/BrandingMakeover.jpg" height="400" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I started PaperLark Studio back in 2012, I offered mainly baby shower and kids' birthday party invitations. Up until recently, my logo reflected this with a child-like, fun font with my yellow bird perched atop the letters. Here's an example:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHsoOcK8l33bwH2OkN9O1Brh_jVn1qo3NobIIhIhXs832-pkHMBW8_nnTc9vaItvk9VtjUCO_5XkEFEpadUy_w1pzBkuGn1INHcFuTiChUGLOuKwDyZ_TgQunBVXSlXSMuOtg9DRyj8I/s1600/LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHsoOcK8l33bwH2OkN9O1Brh_jVn1qo3NobIIhIhXs832-pkHMBW8_nnTc9vaItvk9VtjUCO_5XkEFEpadUy_w1pzBkuGn1INHcFuTiChUGLOuKwDyZ_TgQunBVXSlXSMuOtg9DRyj8I/s1600/LOGO.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logo circa late 2013 - early 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last year, I began introducing more products that strayed away from my original child-centered focus. I expanded beyond only paper products to include fabric goods. My business was growing exactly like I had wanted it to and I quickly realized I was outgrowing my logo {and subsequent branding} as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the many goals I had this year was introduce a more "grown up" logo and brand to better fit my new customer base and style. I'm still in the <i>{slow}</i> process of converting everything over, but I'd like to think I have a pretty solid start going now. For those of you who are developing a logo and brand or for those who are in the same boat as I was, here's a run down of how I tackled my major brand makeover!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>IDENTIFY ELEMENTS CENTRAL TO YOUR BRAND. </b>Because I have some loyal customers and social media followers, I didn't want to go a totally new direction to the point where they wouldn't recognize the logo or business. Strong brands have elements that immediately pop into your head when you hear them - like logo shape, color, wording, etc. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For a prime example, look at this graphic of the evolution of the Coca-Cola logo over the span of their operation. The key elements they pulled out and have consistently used are the fancy font and trademark red. You want to do the same with your new logo and branding. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprVgdjOqtE25TRyEMjyKHcIj08KwR3rhy_ME0eaoLPCQw3xMKli2Gw1Gtu6St60wQGZnRgk4FW148WuZwvluQx_4SBxUZ5f7uqwOKrWXXi3KW83Vgn_J_eoREkjS29ELIkGjc_wTBlGE/s1600/coca-cola-logo-history.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprVgdjOqtE25TRyEMjyKHcIj08KwR3rhy_ME0eaoLPCQw3xMKli2Gw1Gtu6St60wQGZnRgk4FW148WuZwvluQx_4SBxUZ5f7uqwOKrWXXi3KW83Vgn_J_eoREkjS29ELIkGjc_wTBlGE/s1600/coca-cola-logo-history.jpg" height="101" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Logo-Kid.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For PaperLark Studio, I pulled out my bird graphic and a couple of the original colors which you'll be able to see on my brand board below. These elements are what I considered central to my brand. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>CONCENTRATE ON YOUR BRAND AND CREATE LOGOS. </b>As my business has grown, so have my core business values and style. Because I've done a pretty significant shift toward hand lettered designs, I decided a hand lettered font would be good fit to convey what my business was all about. I also hunting for a logo design that was a little more grown up, but still fun. Without further adieu, here is PaperLark Studio's new logo:</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TF26Xp8aWQkEFmdFHIppRUDc1QejJI7i67F0Al13bXZZ2dT7AsAWJAB56r4v0ORaPN-_FY0P0lmfN4N6ADFeH5j6dOdp-xYDHpZqpzJeSroAkYYgiENa-0fFQUEuuWxOjUPDmg5MkMs/s1600/EtsyShopHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TF26Xp8aWQkEFmdFHIppRUDc1QejJI7i67F0Al13bXZZ2dT7AsAWJAB56r4v0ORaPN-_FY0P0lmfN4N6ADFeH5j6dOdp-xYDHpZqpzJeSroAkYYgiENa-0fFQUEuuWxOjUPDmg5MkMs/s1600/EtsyShopHeader.jpg" height="51" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm pretty much in love with it and I should be as much as I stressed over it. Ha! It's grown up, but still a little whimsical while paying homage to element of the old.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>CREATE A BRAND BOARD.</b> I'm still in the process of creating my brand board, but I have pretty solid basics here I thought I'd share. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtV7pXsCfdCTIWv-Bv9b75PS2N6ik1-zqqTSlZrO45am0eiK-FnAeT4kaIE_bFdNr0fenUF73bfHJ9IYRa9ZbWLOPIUX7LArX81iF3Nou0GT8ZMAb-w2qGzWnQGdyBswHCmTKSd2v_Nok/s1600/BrandingStyleBoard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtV7pXsCfdCTIWv-Bv9b75PS2N6ik1-zqqTSlZrO45am0eiK-FnAeT4kaIE_bFdNr0fenUF73bfHJ9IYRa9ZbWLOPIUX7LArX81iF3Nou0GT8ZMAb-w2qGzWnQGdyBswHCmTKSd2v_Nok/s1600/BrandingStyleBoard.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Why create a brand board? I don't know about you, but my creative brain can sometimes run array when I think I have a stroke of genius. Brand boards help creative brains like mine focus on a brand's core values and personality at one glance. If my stroke of genius doesn't fit into the board, it goes to the recycle bin. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
However, do not confuse your brand board with a style guide. The difference? A style guide is instructions on how to use your brand elements within your business. Brand boards just display all the elements of your brand. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you'd like to learn further about how to create a brand board, I recommend this excellent post by Elembee which you can find <a href="http://elembee.com/how-to-create-a-brand-board/">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>What tips do you have for tackling a brand overhaul?</i></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-74868157296730415932015-01-19T14:52:00.000-05:002015-01-19T14:52:06.683-05:00Lessons I've Learned From Owning My Own BusinessIn July, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio">PaperLark Studio</a> will be celebrating its three year anniversary. While I was putting my plans down on paper for this year, I started listing some of the lessons I've learned over the past few years in running my own business.<br />
<br />
Most of these lessons were learned the hard way or through lots of trial and error. If you have your own business, I'm sure you'll be able to relate to many of them and perhaps even get a chuckle out of some. If you are planning to start your own business, I hope these will help you start your journey on smoother waters. After all, knowledge is power, right?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LaDcbgkqG_LPDtU5lt0z1p_N5tb2pm8n4wByThD2_hsTVD8c8KLUBwn5VVU4e4YsKkXc2X0c_Ao0use9q367D3yUycfOZ0wDvtbD2lnyy4ZdfEViZSCtdiWEZDY9Snh_V_96oPHts7Q/s1600/LessonsBusiness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LaDcbgkqG_LPDtU5lt0z1p_N5tb2pm8n4wByThD2_hsTVD8c8KLUBwn5VVU4e4YsKkXc2X0c_Ao0use9q367D3yUycfOZ0wDvtbD2lnyy4ZdfEViZSCtdiWEZDY9Snh_V_96oPHts7Q/s1600/LessonsBusiness.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>IT TAKES A VILLAGE. </b>The title of this post is misleading. I may be the one who "owns" my business according to my federal tax return and my business license, but <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperLarkStudio?ref=shopsection_shophome_leftnav">PaperLark Studio</a> is far from a one-woman show. From giving input on new designs to helping man the booth at craft shows, my family are the silent partners in the business and keep me grounded. Plus, they're pretty brutally honest when I have a sucky idea. Ha! Without my "village," <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperLarkStudio?ref=shopsection_shophome_leftnav">PaperLark Studio</a> would be ten steps behind what it is today.<br />
<br />
<b>BRANDING IS EVERYTHING. </b>Learn it. Breathe it. Live it. I have learned so much about what branding is and why it is important. For me, branding has been one of the most challenging {and intimidating} things to learn and incorporate into my business. Over the years, my branding has evolved significantly and I'm just now really starting to feel comfortable with it. Once I figured out my core values and my market niche, my brand fell into place. I still devour branding tips when I run across them.<br />
<br />
<b>DON'T COMPARE YOUR BEGINNING TO SOMEONE ELSE'S MIDDLE. </b>There is a difference between comparing and admiring. Don't get the two confused! It's easy to beat yourself up when you compare your starter shop to someone who has a couple years in the game under their belt. Just remember: They started somewhere too just like you.<br />
<br />
<b>PASSION ISN'T ENOUGH. </b>Sounds harsh, but it's the truth. Unfortunately, there is much more yucky, no-fun tasks to running a <i>successful</i> business than just creating and making all day. <i>{If only, right?} </i>While passion certainly keeps you going on the rough days, you'll spend most of your day doing tedious tasks like tracking dollars, strategizing your next marketing move or filling orders. After all, you can't just wait around and expect it all to fall into place. Your dreams won't work unless you do!<br />
<br />
<b>COMPETITION IS A LIE. </b>When your products/services are original and one-of-a-kind, you'll have no competition. Sure! There are thousands of talented graphic designers and hand letterers out there, but my aesthetic and style is mine. If you look around in any industry, you'll notice that the industry leaders are not the industry followers. The moral of this lesson? Be original always. <br />
<br />
<b>ALWAYS CARRY BUSINESS CARDS. </b>Since most of my business is conducted on the computer, I sometimes forget about the face-to-face potential aspect of business. I'm a little embarrassed to admit it took me several times of being caught without a business card to learn this lesson. I'm sure I've missed some prime business opportunities because of it. One of my most loyal customers I met in town. Thankfully, I was able to hand her a business card on the spot and she made her first purchase the next day.<br />
<br />
<i>Are you a business owner or blogger? What lessons have you learned through the years?</i><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-64264719424388083122015-01-16T14:00:00.000-05:002015-01-16T14:00:03.319-05:00My Word for 2015: Intention<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtomZhnIK6A5fK1GUtFkVkUIJlBEkqrIbQwe6G2uzt3A-a8eJLPWSFl5Lz5uyCK3s0QoyZmSJvivqnkZnlcd1JDhn1Q9NnEpfqRGYeUWl4HmQb4HRoUqXIO2uRM3y8oJPNXoaLUT5bhc/s1600/Intention.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtomZhnIK6A5fK1GUtFkVkUIJlBEkqrIbQwe6G2uzt3A-a8eJLPWSFl5Lz5uyCK3s0QoyZmSJvivqnkZnlcd1JDhn1Q9NnEpfqRGYeUWl4HmQb4HRoUqXIO2uRM3y8oJPNXoaLUT5bhc/s1600/Intention.png" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Every January, I like to take some time and pick a word to focus on for the year. Words are powerful and can help us refocus when things get a little hairy in life.<br />
<br />
Last year, I focused on the word JOURNEY. Why? Because I knew that year would be a learning experience as I dove head first into pursuing <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio">PaperLark Studio</a> full time and navigating through changes in my personal life. Remembering my word helped me maintain focus and kept me from getting discouraged.<br />
<br />
After some time of reflection, my word for 2015 is <b>INTENTION</b>. Many times during my "journey" last year with my business, I often made decisions without a clear intent. This lead to frustration, the feeling of flying by the seat of my pants <i>(which I hate)</i> and probably some loss of money. A lot of it was simply because I didn't know what I was always doing. That's okay, because that is how you learn! This year, I am learning from those mistakes by acting with <i>intention</i>.<br />
<br />
For me, intention will include a lot of planning and executing. It is my hope that by focusing on intention, I will gain more purpose instead of wasting time. With a little one on the way, my time needs to be spent wisely!<br />
<br />
What is your word for 2015?<br />
<br />
Miranda<br />
<br />
<i>I got the idea from Ali Edwards and her One Little Word project. (Read more about Ali and the project <a href="https://aliedwards.com/projects/one-little-word">here</a>) </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-74255944870671843082015-01-08T12:39:00.000-05:002015-01-08T12:39:13.574-05:00The Differences Between Typography + Calligraphy + Hand Lettering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-G9U90LgKeVUi5Cyzx-gftT1bDxyGvi_MJ77Fnggbsp4ZvyKIDZyV4NURDkc8L-wLU5A0aJCfjX16GzIbTpLVk7GzZ8lcBHJ1o2uOj31x_LIAUYhB7MOUbTq6HRPGJXWmR-jwIWhIME/s1600/differencesheader.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4-G9U90LgKeVUi5Cyzx-gftT1bDxyGvi_MJ77Fnggbsp4ZvyKIDZyV4NURDkc8L-wLU5A0aJCfjX16GzIbTpLVk7GzZ8lcBHJ1o2uOj31x_LIAUYhB7MOUbTq6HRPGJXWmR-jwIWhIME/s1600/differencesheader.png" height="366" width="400" /></a></div>
Since diving into the hand lettering world, I've noticed there's lots of confusion as to the difference between it, calligraphy and typography. It's easy to see where the confusion comes in because when you search on Etsy for typography, you'll see a combination of all three. A lot of people use the terms interchangeably. However, all three are completely different mediums and require their own respective skill set, tools, and execution. <div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's a quick rundown of the differences and how you can spot them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>TYPOGRAPHY</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Typography is the art of setting type using mainly pre-made fonts. Typography goes hand-in-hand with graphic design. When I started PaperLark Studio back in the day, this was the only style I used to create prints and cards. I still use it and a prime example would be my SouthMouth cards which you can find in my shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperLarkStudio?section_id=16032692&ref=shopsection_leftnav_9">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dCoBTtkCYtjLCv4adKonacO2h28TBcgPuekjN09uTYePg38w6i2pWHvCxp5ASTGgsD2a6ErwpPpXIwt7daj-1s3BqPQ3-GIYq7POucTDff4ZsPmJZONG3rD8qM5SBDMv5w342iGhLLs/s1600/SOUTHMOUTHPROMO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dCoBTtkCYtjLCv4adKonacO2h28TBcgPuekjN09uTYePg38w6i2pWHvCxp5ASTGgsD2a6ErwpPpXIwt7daj-1s3BqPQ3-GIYq7POucTDff4ZsPmJZONG3rD8qM5SBDMv5w342iGhLLs/s1600/SOUTHMOUTHPROMO.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>CALLIGRAPHY</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Calligraphy is <i>writing</i> the word. Much of hand lettering work looks like calligraphy, but each has an entirely different style of application and execution. Calligraphy is the art of perfecting a few different style of script. You use these styles over and over, developing a muscle memory for them. Becoming a proficient calligrapher takes years upon years of practice. {Something I wish I had the patience for, but alas I do not.}</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
An example of calligraphy is this addressed envelope by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/193403514/wedding-envelope-calligraphy-hand?ref=shop_home_active_10">Mint Tea Calligraphy</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/193403514/wedding-envelope-calligraphy-hand?ref=shop_home_active_10"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuk1CEiUlwo_laUv4JuP8Aaljv1RlU51FlZb8jeRxdD4yQEpihfb6cdj3LqT5-jW-FxPtRqoKn2Mq8i96V3P71SPGkko34X1xzMdWnjvD2IssdKIN6ksvWFTI5xs1DICwpWza8I3Hb0c8/s1600/calligraphyexample.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>HAND LETTERING</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hand lettering is <i>drawing</i> the word and is most commonly confused with calligraphy. Lettering incorporates all kinds of styles and offers a little more freedom than the perfection of calligraphy or being restricted to a pre-made font like typography. This is probably why it has become my favorite medium. It allows for experimentation and there's no strict rules. {There are some basic guideline you should try to stick to, but that's for another post.}</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's an example of a hand lettered print you can find in my shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/214797650/georgia-culinary-agriculture-print-hand?ref=shop_home_feat_3">here</a>. I bet you'd never guess that I live in Georgia, huh? Ha!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/214797650/georgia-culinary-agriculture-print-hand?ref=shop_home_feat_3"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwa3YljvRus8TMg-9fMy_oNNI9GT7TwEy7PG3r2LB_TLSHDGyhf_PdTmgR7Qb_N_HNQud0gOjXZ1QEjDhJ7zO3uCA1KGfrBtzkiWRQAMd-yTPJfDxadHmLHVDjYw6yMdW9S5yk8Udp_-U/s1600/CulinaryGeorgiaMain.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>WHY HAND LETTERING IS MY FAVORITE.</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Besides the freedom and flexibility I talked about above, I love how organic hand lettering feels. Hand lettering is unique to each letterer. You just can't get that warm feel with a pre-made typeface. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There you have it, folks! Time for a pop quiz. Just kidding! If you're interested in exploring the world of hand lettering, you should stick around because I have a few "How-To" posts in the works. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Be sure you don't miss a thing and follow along:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/paperlarkstudio" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNd61nKzLB9OTgqkSSNJdl8jjzRZ2foTmL1SvZ_wHHVl7-j7mUu4fJMDRi1rS518LmQhtlZQjXjHeJFpc6XprxPJhxvw6TMdWyyOAVEm4Bhx2SdoC1lv4fshsMFqDbe0yPl9BAcBayD0/s1600/facebook.png" /></a></div>
<a href="http://instagram.com/paperlarkstudio"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzlD7FCr2jWBWMogoBSuwZ_VBzO2UTc45VPAqkNmkVANhvtUfK2F0bzBFJeDbnuFWS5yWRoM49yuUG3atxSHudDdbYqJnxcv8bNBY-jh3Hl0UDa8cfSy7pg1HJ_j5IoW3VdBm5a8MXt0/s1600/instagram.png" /></a><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/msain1/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBzu4Wyvnea0J_3IzuZ42xigg3DtOQ4aInZXREy8vCuzbko7wa9IfVXgfYlTa4lLfeg8TkI7cOYFjwO-w5iD-dPRypPakII8RWR-rcWs3GjY3p5l8aSuefQku9mwuGRm_flDvfIaFXc8/s1600/pinterest.png" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/MirandaSain"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1MTZRZumejcH3xezF3YBhn3xKoX5BuVwd_2PCVolCzsfOlTo3KHk4qC_PKzfH8baBsiPUFHAtuGL3mxo4ONOrBxsq6N8egEOM_lWDysTbt3_EDn4W1-DHRoi_O8nLhKsxcI_bZUD-Ljk/s1600/twitter.png" /></a><br />
<br />
Until next time!<br />
Miranda<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-13247025706625837812015-01-07T13:08:00.000-05:002015-01-07T13:08:03.439-05:00Baby Winslett Pregnancy Update: Week 11<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwm6-doQDF-TSwcjB5NmblqQfAqiUOEeZneH7_0H6GpM4auI4oDaPUv5F7PB6sCfbJ1sPu9M8XPQRr2XQEbKFFOi58YI_fNBZp1X4qcj9l_YFgx8xfVk6ZLv3vwfwJZC0GUwnDRXtGRg/s640/blogger-image-1498660003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwm6-doQDF-TSwcjB5NmblqQfAqiUOEeZneH7_0H6GpM4auI4oDaPUv5F7PB6sCfbJ1sPu9M8XPQRr2XQEbKFFOi58YI_fNBZp1X4qcj9l_YFgx8xfVk6ZLv3vwfwJZC0GUwnDRXtGRg/s640/blogger-image-1498660003.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</i><br />
<i>On New Year's Eve, we officially announced the pending arrival of our newest coworker. I've already started a pregnancy/baby scrapbook to record this special and exciting journey and thought I'd share part of it with you. </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Baby Stats: </b>11 weeks and 4 days. Strong heart beat of 175 bpm at last ultrasound. About the size of a lime. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Eating: </b>Cheez-Its and pickles. These seem to be my cravings this week. In other words, anything salty! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Drinking: </b>Water and V8 Vegetable Juice. I'm always thirsty these days. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Avoiding: </b>Caffeine. I've had the worst heartburn ever and quickly learned these only made it worse. Last weekend, we bought a <i>huge</i> bottle of TUMS from BJ's and they've been my best friend ever since. Eggs. Something about eggs absolutely repulses me right now which is funny because I love eggs. My mother made an breakfast egg casserole on Christmas morning and I almost died from the smell. I had to sit outside on the back porch for a bit while it cooked. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Wearing: </b>Yoga pants, loose-fitting shirts and some maternity jeans. I'm savoring the dwindling days where I still fit into some of my shirts. Seriously though, why don't they make all pants like maternity jeans? They're so comfortable!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Feeling: </b>Chunky. I'm in that awkward stage where I don't look pregnant - just like I've had one too many cheeseburgers. Ha! It's only bloating and not cute in the least. Other than that, I've been feeling better energy and feeling yucky-wise. I still have bad days, but more good days than bad. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Buying: </b>Maternity/nursing bras and maternity tank tops for this spring and summer. I bought a Snoogle pregnancy pillow last week that should be arriving today and it's a little ridiculous how excited I am about it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Sleeping: </b>Why am I so excited about this pillow? Because my sleeping has been unpredictable, frustrating and sometimes downright awful the last two weeks. The first problem is that pesky heartburn. Of course, when I lay down it gets worse. The pillow is suppose to help ease this since it'll put me in a more upright position. The second problem is I literally can't fall asleep. It isn't because I'm uncomfortable or my mind is turning. I simply cannot fall asleep. Once I am asleep, I'm good to go until I have to go to the bathroom. After I get up for that, I can't fall asleep again. It's a vicious cycle. From what I've read, it's my hormones and should subside by the 2nd trimester. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Loving: </b>Tossing baby names around with the husband. We've narrowed it down to a few that we love, but our lips are sealed for now. I'm also loving deciding what colors and theme we want for the nursery. My mom will be making the baby's bedding so it's been fun looking at different fabrics and patterns with her. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Getting Use To: </b>Having the pee <i>all the time </i>and growing HUGE boobs. From what I hear, the peeing thing only gets worse. <i>Oh joy. </i>Not looking forward to that. It's just annoying especially when I'm trying to work and focus. But, I'm not going to lie. The boobs have been pretty awesome thus far. I'm digging them even more now that they're not as sore. I've never really had big ta-tas so I'm enjoying the upgrade. There's got to be some perks, right? Hehe. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>About Daddy: </b>It's no surprise that R.J. is thrilled. I've loved seeing him studiously reading his daddy-to-be book and how his eyes lit up during the first ultrasound. It was even his idea to spend his Friday off price comparing baby items together last week. I wish I'd taken a video of his mini-freak out session in the middle of BJ's surrounded by cases of wipes and diapers as the sticker-shock sank in. When he ordered his books for this upcoming semester, he couldn't resist buying a Dr. Seuss book to read to baby while still in utero. I think it's safe to say this munchkin already has daddy wrapped around his/her finger. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Fellow Mommies: Any tips for easing up this heartburn?</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-2986618835797792102014-12-05T09:00:00.000-05:002014-12-05T09:00:09.207-05:00Etsy Find Friday: Apple White Handmade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/213547433/arrows-and-gold-stars-tooth-fairy-teepee?ref=shop_home_feat_3"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdAFPWju842kGF-XSUzNW1kKs01be3OqEEG4VVxUC28DCEq5aOyLLUFn4mmVQw6F7Dn5exFzo7-uh3UdTLm4FHPwRs4hRAb3pejSMxznmSnE4thp9xbYk0nForMF-dbTSR1KCJhv0q2U/s1600/teepee.jpg" height="264" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In this day and age, I think many view sewing as their grandmother's hobby. So, when I stumble upon a sewer who brings the skill into modern times, I get downright giddy. Dana of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/AppleWhite?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Apple White Handmade</a> nails this with her use of modern designs in fabric and style.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDNJYVw9awa0erYcVYp0Cwo09JPfuF_Ce28Lk85LdVXGcQKWeY7OCZ-5MO_eSkeqj-uesEuzMKMIdQDSTivkW_6kiS5cM8qQRGNGtsqsGaL55zs7AzjbrkVM7VApCNggL6ig_XMGeq3U/s1600/coinpurse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDNJYVw9awa0erYcVYp0Cwo09JPfuF_Ce28Lk85LdVXGcQKWeY7OCZ-5MO_eSkeqj-uesEuzMKMIdQDSTivkW_6kiS5cM8qQRGNGtsqsGaL55zs7AzjbrkVM7VApCNggL6ig_XMGeq3U/s1600/coinpurse.jpg" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Her mother taught her how to sew when she was five years old. From there, her dream for owning her own creative business grew. When she faced a "now or never" moment, she jumped in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All Apple White Handmade items are designed, cut and sewn by Dana who is inspired by people using their natural talents. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92wVJGZztvrnoFgBjCtKpvtO_HMMwX5-aQdWltzlxVD9PFtB7LP6AQH8EX05Q9nFgJc1ZA4yiAypizMMwDVAx5y-1Z91DsLVYIWGETfXo2iM5b_j5X9-2k8x_Ojg1Cm9KPqfyffCl7R8/s1600/office2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92wVJGZztvrnoFgBjCtKpvtO_HMMwX5-aQdWltzlxVD9PFtB7LP6AQH8EX05Q9nFgJc1ZA4yiAypizMMwDVAx5y-1Z91DsLVYIWGETfXo2iM5b_j5X9-2k8x_Ojg1Cm9KPqfyffCl7R8/s1600/office2.jpg" height="165" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think her tooth fairy pillows are my favorite item. These pillows were inspired from a drawing her daughter drew a while back. I love their design and the modern fabrics she uses to create them. Even with the modern fabrics, there's just something about them that screams vintage as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What's your favorite Apple White Handmade item?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-14424461592360955462014-12-04T10:19:00.000-05:002014-12-04T10:19:03.541-05:00DIY Christmas Stocking Bow Tutorial<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9dM3ihtyuMJ3Fqe_l7Uv_JMAwDDCXFIvA3O1n2CuK0EQyMjS8WcJwweiKtoJjfmUD8zXQmUOT1UcypY6iC5wfOqg5j07Nd5sq_2eDLTBTtrm41y-LVfM9nRtXlIlPWAdp84HsrQt-6M/s1600/StockingBowHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9dM3ihtyuMJ3Fqe_l7Uv_JMAwDDCXFIvA3O1n2CuK0EQyMjS8WcJwweiKtoJjfmUD8zXQmUOT1UcypY6iC5wfOqg5j07Nd5sq_2eDLTBTtrm41y-LVfM9nRtXlIlPWAdp84HsrQt-6M/s1600/StockingBowHeader.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This year, my mother and sister will be at our house for Christmas. I wanted everyone who will be waking up at our house on Christmas morning to have a stocking. With five stockings on the mantel, I wanted a cute, but easy way to differentiate between them.<br />
<br />
Originally, I had thought about getting small wooden letters, painting them and then writing the names on them. However, my Christmas budget is pretty much spent so I needed to come up with something from supplies I had on hand. Here's what I came up with:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJ8b-hQQ-EjOARkWSHxVHS-cUXLh6K-0LCKPOVgnfWF0Sz-EqbyIYJ8VdM08RlY47UYS7-iFIhQGk0uU2j7zH5NOJ-jyzqyOIf8ITo146ojrcwwiNSimLZjPe0t7O72mgw3rRpc5ksic/s1600/DSC_0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJ8b-hQQ-EjOARkWSHxVHS-cUXLh6K-0LCKPOVgnfWF0Sz-EqbyIYJ8VdM08RlY47UYS7-iFIhQGk0uU2j7zH5NOJ-jyzqyOIf8ITo146ojrcwwiNSimLZjPe0t7O72mgw3rRpc5ksic/s1600/DSC_0160.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
The ribbon is actually left over from a partially used roll from our wedding. I'd been trying to use it up by using it to wrap presents. It's so wide and the finish was perfect for me to write the names on. I wouldn't advise using satin ribbon because your ink will bleed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u><br /></u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u>What You'll Need:</u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-3" wide ribbon {mine was 2.5"}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Scissors</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sharpie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Safety Pins</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>Step One.</i></b> Tie a bow with your ribbon, making it your preferred size. Before cutting your ribbon, be sure your two tails are long enough to write the name on. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>Step Two.</i></b> Cut a small V on the tail ends. Take your sharpie and write the name on the ribbon. If you are lefty like me, proceed with caution so you don't smear the ink like I did on my first ribbon!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>Step Three.</i></b> Stick your safety pin through the back of the knot in the middle of your bow. Lastly, simply pin your ribbon onto your stocking.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2bltGejjRqtncMe3abcQOAoaLBdpl-vszU77wtsU_4ygrcuDeDHX_hdc8CAbEukcW7DwhyWQxAntdfrDDtLDAdqcl0ZQaXpoOrvPBtBf6CAvRazU6Xgw2Mq6FhPxgLp8UsXG3rxw03A/s1600/DSC_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2bltGejjRqtncMe3abcQOAoaLBdpl-vszU77wtsU_4ygrcuDeDHX_hdc8CAbEukcW7DwhyWQxAntdfrDDtLDAdqcl0ZQaXpoOrvPBtBf6CAvRazU6Xgw2Mq6FhPxgLp8UsXG3rxw03A/s1600/DSC_0159.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now then, you've just got to repeat that for how many every bows you need. The only tricky part was trying to get them to look close to the same size. After playing around a little, I think I did pretty well. In all, I made all five of these in about 30 minutes.<br />
<br />
Happy Holidays!<br />
Miranda</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-87510568393102006182014-11-27T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-27T09:00:01.060-05:00Free Printable Holiday Gift Tags //// BLACK Friday Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
I am so grateful for each and every one of you! Thank you for hanging out in my little piece of the blogosphere. Thank you for supporting <a href="http://etsy.me/1dpd9G1">PaperLark Studio</a>. Thank you for allowing me through that support to be able to live my dream every day and provide for my family!<br />
<br />
To show just a smidgen of my gratitude, I thought I'd share three gift tags with a few of my holiday designs on them for you to use this holiday season. I printed my tags on kraft paper, but you can certainly use whatever card stock you prefer!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvF5R-z4Vl7_HgaZvzi1WURWnBAqGQNxjioOv_2C2BB_GWKn7EwCsbtbEMcUs7IJ1FLme3rjYvGVW_KTRXkuZpfXMf-laAyW6iMWFSI0GGgkI16J_Wt9POwtWxrldJbYFiGTeMbr1CoA/s1600/DSC_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvF5R-z4Vl7_HgaZvzi1WURWnBAqGQNxjioOv_2C2BB_GWKn7EwCsbtbEMcUs7IJ1FLme3rjYvGVW_KTRXkuZpfXMf-laAyW6iMWFSI0GGgkI16J_Wt9POwtWxrldJbYFiGTeMbr1CoA/s1600/DSC_0167.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Z8rrkr1WHrRGFOcS1MSjZZR1E/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_qAgAmp_402QJsaDYXDe5jFsbqRAIBHhRdgNa2QgnsBC3_beOp0cD5jPIoFZvMXPKSEh72g7D-kF-CLKs73FwoNFLNv69Rs28OaYGH5EpJwBgJdpxoeo8naj7A7d3LzhInVsnPcgFsc/s1600/downloadbutton.png" height="37" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Starting today, for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, I am offering <i><b>free</b></i> gift wrapping* and <b><i>free</i></b> shipping on all orders. {Say what?!} Just use the coupon code <b>XMAS14</b> at checkout! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://etsy.me/1dpd9G1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7szEyJK8GJyqsezc4N-jYdG1CcuURU0F7VMBO0WzvQ1mlbBMeMfbAI3uuYuPvnAmqG2jr4RpzdrZXKecu1lmUxzT1IkVjoOL5iVSrsr5l40uQElLiBM3xVxWBCLe7xjD1DI31Wrwa5Ok/s1600/BFFacebook.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXQpb3PMs3-AWZZUzy4nxUJfvDCVfhOzjq3NKvVsu4D2YFzczFWIF1gDbkiiV3PvfrJQfg01TJA0Jqf1Tg2eBwvB3yNNUnj7HWE8yDb9Ry-hppViWXiPx7AZRIlN1r_qAsep5zvohKL8/s1600/SHOPTHESTUDIO.jpg" height="124" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Once you receive your wrapped order, just print one of these tags out to finish off your gift. Of course, I'd love to see any and all pictures, so use the hashtag #paperlarkstudio. I just might share it!<br />
<br />
Now, go take a much deserved nap. I'll take care of the gift wrapping!<br />
Miranda<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Free gift wrapping is not included on invitations or photo greeting cards.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-66174921528082174972014-11-25T11:42:00.001-05:002014-11-25T11:42:36.854-05:00Tuesday's Top Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />With Black Friday almost upon us, I thought I'd highlight my top three favorite PaperLark products. I'll share why I picked them and give you a little insight as to how they were made. {Be sure to check out my Black Friday-Cyber Monday coupon code at the bottom!}</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJIegXiywQfWcbre8cRkCiaTYy7St6bfnHkkqTLwN8U6DUsJfGlHPjKeK6fVQPIww8OrC6-IGx_TSS5NppSxfIctsJTLFeH4UDt_rL42j0E2OZZDRBXnHwkdzGs0nZEEjKed7_b8n1KU/s1600/TopThreeHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJIegXiywQfWcbre8cRkCiaTYy7St6bfnHkkqTLwN8U6DUsJfGlHPjKeK6fVQPIww8OrC6-IGx_TSS5NppSxfIctsJTLFeH4UDt_rL42j0E2OZZDRBXnHwkdzGs0nZEEjKed7_b8n1KU/s1600/TopThreeHeader.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204839559/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things?ref=related-6">These Are a Few of My Favorite Things Pack of Five Notecards, $8+</a> - Growing up, this was one of my favorite Christmas songs. I started working on my Holiday 2014 line back in September. Of course, I was listening to Christmas music when this song came on and I started doodling. Ta-da! This is what resulted. It's one of my favorites simply because I impressed myself with it. It was my first attempt at a free-handed, illustrated card and I love how it came out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204578876/georgia-on-my-mind-tea-towel-flour-sack?ref=shop_home_active_3">Georgia on My Mind Tea Towel, $14</a> - This design started out as an art print that I only sold at craft shows. I'm loving the state pride trend that is so popular at the moment and this was my answer to it. Turns out most of my customers who stopped in at my booth loved it too! When I introduced my own line of tea towels earlier this year, I knew this design had to be included. It has spurred custom requests for other state tea towels like Florida, Alabama and Tennessee. Hopefully, in 2015, I'll be offering even more states! But until then, I'll keep beaming with my home state pride.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208391111/well-butter-my-biscuit-notecard-pack?ref=shop_home_active_10">Well Butter My Biscuit Pack of Five Notecards, $8</a> - Of all those sassy Southern sayings in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperLarkStudio?section_id=16032692&ref=shopsection_leftnav_9">South Mouth Collection</a>, this one is my favorite. It makes me giggle every time I read it. It's also the card that gets the most reaction at craft shows. People always break out a laugh or a smile when they see it and always comment something along the lines of "my grandmother says that all the time." There's just something totally unique and just plain amusing about Southern sayings and I love being able to connect with others' experiences through a card. While I've sold my fair share of these with the state of Georgia on it, the great state of Texas is the second most requested. {But, I can put any state you'd prefer on there for a custom touch, of course.}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And yes! I will be having a Black Friday - Cyber Monday sale in the shop. Use the code <b>XMAS14</b> to get FREE SHIPPING + FREE GIFT WRAPPING* on all purchases. </div>
<br />
Of course, feel free to use that coupon code to purchase any of my top three favorites or any items in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio">my shop</a>. In advance, thank you for buying handmade and supporting small business! You're awesome!<br />
<br />
Miranda<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Free gift wrapping offer excludes printed invitations, holiday photo greeting cards, and/or announcements. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-63144548082975489452014-11-21T11:05:00.000-05:002014-11-21T11:05:00.712-05:00Etsy Find Friday: The Best of ThanksgivingWith Thanksgiving less than a week away, I thought it would be fun to switch up Etsy Friday a little. Instead of highlighting one shop, I have a collection of some stellar Thanksgiving-related goodness for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110026464/thanksgiving-decor-gift-give-thanks?ref=tre-2727037018-1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAP5oOBe6qLTsI2t9vIk9jztOyPrzUuVRBhyphenhyphenMe94qzIF49_Q-BQ_N60I4pRIPCK2Tl9TjHkMkMmgzjbhceze_vBpz7nRmg4M0Tw2RDPimP-fkctLw5YbHbv0qB2CCCShpCLwLFCUGw5I/s1600/thanksgiving2.jpg" height="155" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIYKGX-GmkS056CZ1XCkLpoH7DJdBkzodf1vky3hcy_EWU9YXP1BbxfagbazwohG9G15Dz3U4LVQBhhsB0W5RyJtD-tKS0Vu1K-LLql4djQcGN-qTAQOyRGfI4eLWMMZTHaMEnp8w_5o/s1600/thanksgiving3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIYKGX-GmkS056CZ1XCkLpoH7DJdBkzodf1vky3hcy_EWU9YXP1BbxfagbazwohG9G15Dz3U4LVQBhhsB0W5RyJtD-tKS0Vu1K-LLql4djQcGN-qTAQOyRGfI4eLWMMZTHaMEnp8w_5o/s1600/thanksgiving3.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStC-1ealAzpvJ440Pit1JhWdpFqocMpzlfM8QvAIe3nUzBB_yEyvPEOJIdPfiV0FT3QPXmG9ZzeHwDFBkfQYMtPhzIScR3PBznJie1AgY2aFNg2SrxOFHbdoV3k2__ER6-iHYFqErO1c/s1600/thanksgiving1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStC-1ealAzpvJ440Pit1JhWdpFqocMpzlfM8QvAIe3nUzBB_yEyvPEOJIdPfiV0FT3QPXmG9ZzeHwDFBkfQYMtPhzIScR3PBznJie1AgY2aFNg2SrxOFHbdoV3k2__ER6-iHYFqErO1c/s1600/thanksgiving1.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110026464/thanksgiving-decor-gift-give-thanks?ref=tre-2727037018-1">Give Thanks Sculpted Clay Pumpkins by Skyeart</a>, $26 - Amy, the creator behind Skyeart, sculpted these adorable little pumpkins from polymer clay and stamped the text by hand from her home studio in Colorado. Wouldn't these be adorable to add to your Thanksgiving decor?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LippincottSoapCo?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Iced Pumpkin Cold Process Soap by Lippincott Soap Company</a>, $6.50 - You have to read the description of how this sucker smells on its listing. Holy cow! I can almost smell it bringing Thanksgiving to my bathroom. Each soap is handmade and created in a kitchen in Pennsylvania. Every bar of soap is made by either cold or hot process using natural oils and butters. {Angela's Christmas soaps and goodies look equally divine too!}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/168760747/thanksgiving-gluten-free-homemade?ref=tre-2724478655-4">Thanksgiving Gourmet Dog Treats by Nutty Mutt Bakery</a>, $8 - Don't forget an extra special treat for your furry friends. The turkey legs are made from their wheat-free chicken recipe, dipped in a peanut butter coating and sprinkled with chopped peanuts. The pumpkin pie treat is made from a pumpkin cookie recipe and decorated with a yogurt coating. Every treat from Nutty Mutt Bakery is baked fresh from scratch in Greenfield, Indiana.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wpvHQzCpBaGA__4CChzKk2SR94E2Q81eQ_fgCdKTgIGdWQurmJLixlCy91JzxjPp_WTb4uC6M9jEQMlMByEz9bQqhv3izp8GBCOljDozwwYhl9iaasSFBKHOdwmbdhLJZbzK1wcVA4E/s1600/thanksgiving5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208718989/thanksgiving-cards-box-of-8-give-thanks?ref=pr_faveshops"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRzKdZeqG0u3E_GLxH3YxS-0Eb1r9chsoSsIxWk_TqwI6nNb7V9Js35R0VSSpXObe1WqRL_eNJzHV445w1zIJ_HzeA63ogT0HFaX-1ZPxbehLc9VS4uEgDj4PsdQO8IsADzwZ1tMDWTU/s1600/thanksgivin6.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166982533/gather-dish-towels-one-towel?ref=tre-2727037128-14"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wpvHQzCpBaGA__4CChzKk2SR94E2Q81eQ_fgCdKTgIGdWQurmJLixlCy91JzxjPp_WTb4uC6M9jEQMlMByEz9bQqhv3izp8GBCOljDozwwYhl9iaasSFBKHOdwmbdhLJZbzK1wcVA4E/s1600/thanksgiving5.jpg" height="177" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFh7P5eGAIcn94fvT_1dQAJfyLIN2IoKA7AekQB0fPUHN9RG9rLgjrT2QEOR7RmZK7sqrGmk8i1P23We5GSI6WYWDEojh_UywlV20NUDeHSGo0sduSZX0O8Vubua8C7PG_F_olmyS1GTM/s1600/thanksgiving4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFh7P5eGAIcn94fvT_1dQAJfyLIN2IoKA7AekQB0fPUHN9RG9rLgjrT2QEOR7RmZK7sqrGmk8i1P23We5GSI6WYWDEojh_UywlV20NUDeHSGo0sduSZX0O8Vubua8C7PG_F_olmyS1GTM/s1600/thanksgiving4.jpg" height="140" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208718989/thanksgiving-cards-box-of-8-give-thanks?ref=pr_faveshops">Thanksgiving Cards Box of 8 by August & Oak</a>, $20 - Isn't this little guy cute? Of all the Thanksgiving cards I've seen this season {and I've seen a lot being in the stationery industry}, this illustrated card has been my favorite. My mailbox would be so happy to receive this card for Thanksgiving.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166982533/gather-dish-towels-one-towel?ref=tre-2727037128-14">Gather Dish Towel by Nesta Home,</a> $16.50 - Since I sold out of my limited edition Thanksgiving tea towels a couple of weeks ago, I thought I'd add in a towel that I really liked. I love this towel because its maker, Tandie, hand dyed it. I love extra special handmade touches like that. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6 /// <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/83442043/pumpkin-garland-rustic-autumn-weddings?ref=tre-2727037128-4">Pumpkin Garland by Wish Daisy</a>, $29 - This would look so cute on my mantel! To create her pumpkin garland, Stacey used dried and dyed Putka pods. She also has some other adorable Thanksgiving/Fall items you should check out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What handmade goods are on your Thanksgiving want list?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-53792924832925966882014-11-20T11:05:00.001-05:002014-11-26T11:27:25.391-05:00DIY Vintage Window Christmas Advent Calendar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxq0dwsY3N-kWMT76dwZUNa85g3Khk5L1E2MoEdKWdYjzwOr2pFOO4_X1Zeq0EjB8CgZkAsqPimsDd9uEGhLrrrIF-yzKFzjhOes4ROUu2jrH4e9xnA6BWr3ffA0oTzhl-_m5MxRO714/s1600/AdventCalendarHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxq0dwsY3N-kWMT76dwZUNa85g3Khk5L1E2MoEdKWdYjzwOr2pFOO4_X1Zeq0EjB8CgZkAsqPimsDd9uEGhLrrrIF-yzKFzjhOes4ROUu2jrH4e9xnA6BWr3ffA0oTzhl-_m5MxRO714/s1600/AdventCalendarHeader.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">For the last couple of years, I wanted to do an advent calendar. However, when you don't have any children, I don't think it drums up the same excitement. But, I decided to make an advent calendar for my two little fur balls that I knew would get excited everyday about it. Ha! In each bag, I've stuck a dog treat for each pup. Even though they won't understand {or care for that matter} why they'll be getting a treat for 24 straight days, it'll make me happy.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">I had an old window sitting down in the garage that I had rescued a while ago from a barn. I've been holding onto it, waiting for the right project to come along. Alas! I thought it would make the perfect addition to my advent calendar. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">I pulled the window out of the garage, wiped it down really well and got to work. This project didn't actually cost me anything because I had all the supplies already {big yay for being a craft supply horder!}. However, if you can get your hands on an old window, I'm sure this project wouldn't take much to make. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1dbU4vuw7l_WxcuDaOF-DzDiyXdqpKOVAgHpSVx4fvS6fXbkXW-EJB9IrLpUKxaYWxwGufP8l_TpiflK9jHyODXb9wc80rbaT4LQQnHNyuOSvLlRqAukvZ3B0xK241P_FMfS9oajVVs/s1600/DSC_0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1dbU4vuw7l_WxcuDaOF-DzDiyXdqpKOVAgHpSVx4fvS6fXbkXW-EJB9IrLpUKxaYWxwGufP8l_TpiflK9jHyODXb9wc80rbaT4LQQnHNyuOSvLlRqAukvZ3B0xK241P_FMfS9oajVVs/s1600/DSC_0160.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>What I used:</u></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Old window</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Twine</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Hot glue gun and glue sticks</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Brown paper bags</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Ribbon</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Scissors</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Stapler</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Paint Pen</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Treats for the bags</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Step One. </b>Create your bags. I used large lunch paper bags. Because the large bags were clearly too big, I cut them into fourths and just stapled the edges to make my smaller bags. {Of course, you could buy small paper bags and skip this step} </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Step Two. </b>Once I had 24 smaller bags, I took a paint pen and drew my letters on each bag. Let these dry really good and then stick your treats in, folding over the top. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Step Three. </b>Prepare your window. Measure out your twine and then glue it on the back of the window frame. Do this with each twine piece you'll need. {On my window, I used five twine lines and fit five bags on each - expect for the last one which only had four bags.} Let the glue harden.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyiH6qG6WCFiDYpCEMV2Kv5UPNbdE9xZc-PlxNBa62swdw_4lVIJiSsU7n4lLekmSdZSyvky2g1ONkEH2O4CUkOVBKb0hmuPfygQ6BtjXHfldxsDf7heSsuIJCQvICoGTYbpa3w-iMZw/s640/blogger-image--1630853073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyiH6qG6WCFiDYpCEMV2Kv5UPNbdE9xZc-PlxNBa62swdw_4lVIJiSsU7n4lLekmSdZSyvky2g1ONkEH2O4CUkOVBKb0hmuPfygQ6BtjXHfldxsDf7heSsuIJCQvICoGTYbpa3w-iMZw/s200/blogger-image--1630853073.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Step Four. </b>Tie your pretty ribbon in a bow onto the twine and then staple the bag to the ribbon. Do this for each of the 24 bags. I staggered the lengths of my ribbon so the bags would hang at different lengths just to give it some character. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEOyVLVqzKnkLxxXRwZw78Gh10WsM0PayPBwyTe3ekaqBZ4Wsl4LkAHaEoT1bjiZrSQz-Qg5v-rCLKFXTKyre6DC-MRvyYUt39SLwxRSk5kyLI7LWIYaudtShrpbLz6ug2S0AZg5a5FQ/s640/blogger-image--1531683838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEOyVLVqzKnkLxxXRwZw78Gh10WsM0PayPBwyTe3ekaqBZ4Wsl4LkAHaEoT1bjiZrSQz-Qg5v-rCLKFXTKyre6DC-MRvyYUt39SLwxRSk5kyLI7LWIYaudtShrpbLz6ug2S0AZg5a5FQ/s200/blogger-image--1531683838.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once you have all 24 bags tied and stapled, you can embellish your window frame any way you'd like. My window had one pane of glass left in it, so I took a paint pen and did a little hand lettering to jazz it up. I also added some garland around the outside. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-QnsrJhE30snxmLg5OpSRLIynkGzwPuJHhWezCy0LXrwECjUBY053UJsDV3Y6y3m3LjAkgwQNKyUtJY3pXU1rEebshyxhcbSJ-TP-fuPRjhrlse5oVAG3eEp3XP7a-UhJj6suO8NMwk/s1600/DSC_0155-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-QnsrJhE30snxmLg5OpSRLIynkGzwPuJHhWezCy0LXrwECjUBY053UJsDV3Y6y3m3LjAkgwQNKyUtJY3pXU1rEebshyxhcbSJ-TP-fuPRjhrlse5oVAG3eEp3XP7a-UhJj6suO8NMwk/s1600/DSC_0155-001.JPG" height="320" width="222" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">My advent calendar is now resting on top of a short bookshelf beside our Christmas tree. </span></span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">It took my Yorkie, Bentley, less than 24 hours to discover mom's new creation had dog treats in it. He spent a better part of this morning arrff-ing at it, trying to convince me we should start adventing today. I gave him a chew bone in hopes he will forget about it and so far so good. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Oh! And a quick tip if you need to purchase some materials for this project. Be sure to check out <a href="http://raise.com/">Raise.com</a>! This handy site lets users purchase gift cards for less than their value which will help you save some extra cash. They do have gift cards to <a href="https://www.raise.com/buy-jo-ann-fabrics-gift-cards">Joann's</a> and <a href="https://www.raise.com/buy-michaels-gift-cards">Michaels</a> {and more}. I'm trying to get into the habit of checking this website to see what gift cards they have if I'm planning a big project. I've seen gift cards up to 23% off. Every little bit helps! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><a href="https://www.raise.com/buy-gift-cards" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://www.raise.com/buy-<wbr></wbr>gift-cards</a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><a href="https://www.raise.com/sell-gift-cards" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://www.raise.com/sell-<wbr></wbr>gift-cards</a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Happy creating!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">Miranda</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Century Gothic, AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-6568104522347060662014-11-18T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-18T09:00:08.754-05:00Tuesday's Top ThreeTake a deep breath. Now, let it out with a huge groan. Yup! That's right. It's the time of year where I go back revisit and rewrite my business plan. {Insert a unanimous <i>ewww! </i>here}<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I dread doing it every year. Though I grumble and groan about it, there's a reason why I subject myself to the torture year after year. Frankly put - my business couldn't succeed {<i>and more importantly grow</i>} without it! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wrote my first business plan about six months after opening my shop. Heck! When I opened my shop in July 2012, I didn't even know what a business plan was. It was only by chance I stumbled upon <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1603429891/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1603429891&linkCode=as2&tag=mrandmrswinsl-20&linkId=TKKPPOEN2Z2WDUZZ%22%3EGrow%20Your%20Handmade%20Business:%20How%20to%20Envision,%20Develop,%20and%20Sustain%20a%20Successful%20Creative%20Business%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=mrandmrswinsl-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1603429891%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">Grow Your Handmade Business by Kari Chapin</a> {affiliate link} did I read about business plans and learn why they were so important. I purchased this e-book for my Kindle and make a point to skim over it every year before revisiting my business plan. <i>It's that good!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
My business plan helps me stay focused. While I may need it one day to show a bank or an investor, I really use it right now as the blueprint for my business. It tells me what I've done, what I'm doing, where I want to go and how I'll get there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've run across a handful of excellent posts/articles on tips for writing a business plan through the the last couple of years. I hope they'll help you as much as they've helped me in constructing my business plan!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://byregina.com/how-to-write-a-freelance-business-plan/"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00A2PFt2jIN3UQB45SeLV8X7H7cOJwYLJIZ1JirURj9tm4uaTLtiCxwEljUYqAXR_5utsmlELc5Z2ZC_7Ilxi89Ks5X2JQ8NNusZkddBub899aAHelbYQorlWyW0TVPwZf45_jFHcEmQ/s200/Freelance-Business-Plan.jpg" width="141" /></a> <a href="http://amandagenther.com/designing-a-business-plan-for-your-creative-business/"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBK9cHr0WKP_yFNaY0XOoOOrrTUUPtKyss86Arv-7-OLQplFfDpDg6iB6mghCa36Vxy4bS69yYfkl_7JEz79behJcT9P9PdOGb8g1bAey0wHKCpvbRrER3z9C_qKu4PPYCBwgVvwHUOk/s200/the-business-plan-for-creatives1.jpg" width="110" /></a> <a href="http://www.marketyourcreativity.com/2014/09/how-to-create-a-marketing-calendar-for-your-business/"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72o1-YzFsJG1sFNQBxEnXLFMoWEeax0MuWPUvg1WtC5cZvr3MxeO3OkKpRzVCvHrdzzM5mz1nguyWUWyVJ0sJUC9LrekvUq7kjJS1KVb5P0RXUca70f4KmJQtwJtZfWZG8SirvLjHxAo/s200/marketingcalendar.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>1 ///</b> <a href="http://byregina.com/how-to-write-a-freelance-business-plan/">How to Write a Freelance Business Plan</a> - Start here! Regina from <a href="http://byregina.com/">ByRegina.com</a> offers a comprehensive how-to complete with an instructional walk-you-through-it video and free supplementary printables. Whether you are a blogger, designer, creative, etc., Regina gives you a great starting platform to begin creating your business plan.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>2 ///</b> <a href="http://amandagenther.com/designing-a-business-plan-for-your-creative-business/">Design a Business Plan for Your Creative Business</a> - <a href="http://amandagenther.com/">Amanda</a> speaks directly to creatives in this post and offers some extra creative-centered points to add into your business plan. In my own business plan for <a href="http://paperlarkstudio.etsy.com/">PaperLark Studio</a>, I merged Regina's suggested plan layout with Amanda's to better suit my needs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>3 ///</b> <a href="http://www.marketyourcreativity.com/2014/09/how-to-create-a-marketing-calendar-for-your-business/"><span style="color: grey;">H</span>ow to Create a Marketing Calendar for Your Business</a> - In the last year, my business has grown significantly. With the growth, I quickly learned that in order to keep up in 2015, I'd need to incorporate a marketing calendar into my business plan. In 2014, I {without a doubt} flew by the seat of my pants when it came to the marketing aspect of my business and probably lost some money because of it. Not in 2015! And that starts here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
If you'd like to see more awesome posts on blogging and business, be sure to check out my boards, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msain1/the-etsy-shop/" style="color: grey; text-decoration: none;">The Etsy Shop</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msain1/the-blog-world/" style="color: grey; text-decoration: none;">The Blogging World</a>, on Pinterest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
Now it's your turn! Which blogs and/or posts about construction your business plan have been helpful for you?</div>
</div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-43321809802391014592014-11-14T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-14T09:00:05.438-05:00Etsy Find Friday: Jane FosterI literally <i>just</i> found this shop. Seriously! I stumbled across it Wednesday through an email from Etsy and instantly fell in love with it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY_0RUQ68-sC0LZEWusgiC51rRhxtXZ7WCSxRzhk3lgNTsRHOVR8z8ZxDkj8SN3rlJAHuzrzJoefmJUQtXvKPoFoPigvak3yR4InIIcvQ22spgJhFO2bXLmcOs1GOCfS3wUvw83ccmlLc/s1600/fs_janefoster_header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY_0RUQ68-sC0LZEWusgiC51rRhxtXZ7WCSxRzhk3lgNTsRHOVR8z8ZxDkj8SN3rlJAHuzrzJoefmJUQtXvKPoFoPigvak3yR4InIIcvQ22spgJhFO2bXLmcOs1GOCfS3wUvw83ccmlLc/s640/fs_janefoster_header.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Jane Foster</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Janefoster?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Jane Foster</a> creates soft toys, prints, pillows and pouches from her own Scandinavian influenced designs. She designs, screen prints and sews all from her studio in Devon, UK. Her love for Scandinavian design from the 50s and 60s shines through in all her products - my current favorite definitely being the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204924636/screen-printed-retro-santa-father?ref=shop_home_active_9">Retro Santa</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/81562856/screen-printed-retro-santa-father?ref=shop_home_active_2"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEJm1WHfY5yRpyeojSsyW0OFWF27GGb-AcjoeLuIpMMRqrHUR4R7lHhJACZBFmHNLay63dmnUObtrWhxfhKBrkad3_SmDcK7LxdMQOZpsYuO6ST371kxNtyaE5ni8pMrCFv-ysTklaZk/s320/RetroSanta1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She also has a Mr. and Mrs. Claus set! Isn't this too stinkin' cute?! She created these two to poke out of her daughter's Christmas stocking.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/160810203/pair-of-scandinavian-retro-fun-fabric-mr?ref=listing-shop-header-0"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZrHTeiRJA67kzIktV54CS1m1qYad3mUw4ApvTp-dK6YQHT8APtS0EEAHp4D3zTWLquV0R3WCAcf4GuoBw-nBu24Yu6R8SMDKdl5R97SSWC-LRUm1bGebLbFMzBh_aUvhfH2uxpmpoj4/s320/RetroClausCouple.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only would they make precious gifts for a kid, I think they'd be adorable to add to your Christmas decor. I know exactly where I'd put them in our house - on the bookshelf in our living room which is right beside our tree. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, she has some other non-Christmas cuties like these little foxes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174470922/new-geometric-toy-fox-plush-screen?ref=shop_home_active_14"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJngz5N68jALVBHVVVytkcuHqNUBT_3Yql8r3yV7b_lFcyTlBvVhzf8Gz3qPgrHpIsPvOB7XuOaYnsiEECe2IoVQly_vEx8VcRhfXEF76TAsd-ZfihG4NGV6p9awe_NuS6NylgzB2IJo/s320/RetroFoxes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She was a featured Etsy seller a few years back. If you'd like to read more about the story behind her handmade shop, <a href="https://blog.etsy.com/en/2011/featured-seller-jane-foster/">you can read her interview here</a>. Also, be sure to <a href="http://janefoster.co.uk/">check out her website</a>! I'll be following her in the future when I need a little inspiration from a handmade business. It is pay day too. Perhaps, one of those little retro Santas will be finding a new home on my bookshelf!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-45276306519825738742014-11-13T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-13T09:00:02.430-05:00Freebie: Baby It's Cold Outside Art Print<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamGv-OmaOF5rSnyZSvU0R1rs7KQ6NiHjVVCkcgOqZZps4m7k5VTlARz_6DxJHGqdkPVa-mgR0hj55ou_6yHjj0ZhRldC-cQKYQK4BBKCsmXUcDJhofFto3GZcEQ9HXw4XPBbD5smhKC0/s1600/BabyItsColdFreebieHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamGv-OmaOF5rSnyZSvU0R1rs7KQ6NiHjVVCkcgOqZZps4m7k5VTlARz_6DxJHGqdkPVa-mgR0hj55ou_6yHjj0ZhRldC-cQKYQK4BBKCsmXUcDJhofFto3GZcEQ9HXw4XPBbD5smhKC0/s400/BabyItsColdFreebieHeader.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This free printable is definitely inspired by the cold weather we are currently having. Tonight it is suppose to dip into the 20s! In Georgia, that never happens until January and it isn't even Thanksgiving yet! I will be spending my evening {and the next few from the looks of it} snuggled up close to a fire with a warm drink in my favorite mug. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As winter creeps closer and closer, I hope this print will add some warmth to your home. I printed mine out and put it next to my Keurig. The printable is formatted as an 8x10, but you can print it as a 5x7 - just be sure to change your print settings!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Z8rrkr1WHrdjBwZk1Ed3UwN2s/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="59" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoZ0bkTfAT1TmnUIdCZdChaSScUbyv9EKRi8QIwIlTGNRIzGe4i9yChN105xPNcU8MquT9a5x4uMGanykrgjpKQq0fIKbRT2tALmPQHSA41XYIbXqRu7Ik4phJqAenXDyhI-mkGslCuE/s640/downloadbutton.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'd love to see a picture of how you used your free printable! Use the hashtag #paperlarkstudio or tag me in your post on any of the social media below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/paperlarkstudio"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2pSpow4vRUdDX47MrvCfeC8E5d36737ifs98eHdnUotvM6O7W3SM3pVatdCaL4ktVY6TE0PF6ii98ybJGhmNko3-MS5HDuBjbErnMqyZE9h60St57eMGW7SeXq6uQ3NG8oPRByEjNjQ/s1600/facebook.png" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/paperlarkstudio"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0t4gG4sQUIcE2tDp3SOfS8SQ92dCZsgdu9zbEQa3ZZY1xX6dSnVmsY83tu1stpC3m7t2JYzXAAuLT1q7HvT8MLofOaeUmTbzzp-KB-W-ixEQfOqMOTfwc-O8VsSzbs3dlISvjrsRszm0/s1600/instagram.png" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/MirandaSain"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Gwn7EbQszE0l-xb8o2UCM2eY5fS-Xig52jEAyECY8HpRtJrHLzfe6BALgRdA9AKzmD-1-2F67qKcmXAWOK6lxNYUXCzaVOJ9uk-x17tN_BL-c9lMvQ57t6h6Rvq3J0b_sKFlDIxYL00/s1600/twitter.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, if you love anything "Baby, It's Cold Outside," be sure to check out my ever popular <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167492942/baby-its-cold-outside-winter-snowflake?ref=shop_home_active_20">baby shower invitation</a> with this theme in my shop.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Enjoy and stay warm!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-81887565915915979432014-11-11T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-11T09:00:00.447-05:00Tuesday's Top Three Happy Tuesday!<br />
<br />
Today, I thought I'd share three blogging/business posts that are currently rocking my world. Chances are that if a pin related to blogging or improving your handmade business rolls across my Pinterest feed, I'm going to click it. Sometimes, they are filled with the same run-of-the-mill dos and don'ts, but every now and them I run across a gem. These three below are gems!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/streamline-your-process/#more-12116"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHv7SYz5fRMxPHY_NhJYSDcCbd0RLPqM2AGZIuA7ok1k9ZNiJ6FyBlYRl648_B6SAPxQvqHdtfweZecJ2Ih38dfCeS-jkX-XIVJh9kf2EYRrh8tOAp85-iw6z17rmcME74ZIsFGq4Ey0/s1600/streamline.png" height="200" width="173" /></a> <a href="http://jayadores.com/2014/09/09/freelance-finances/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuwTFBGgeQ1n388yX-j1KSUp16FrdgWiMz-i7pmUea_x0IdsvhBtZVw3yT8XzwUn5glyGn51AGn8u1EmImBEeYC4M4h9e7iRWxwtIFxidcKmUg9RloPVK5QiGiIupQ5DiZ0FP00rafb8/s1600/FREELANCEFINANCES5.jpg" height="200" width="171" /></a> <a href="http://blog.kievonna.com/2014/09/free-download.html"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxxkTD4IPmDcMyvjNsSYbp-lp2sJrVoCG1YmW8EjGZGMoT1mESOSleOhI7Lu_HL03_LMuYdiQ8W0Xth-wuQPMPnGX71ZKWmNMsij3FlamWWCyXQFurJfIKwPlho5QUVin10qam5buH_8/s1600/bloggerorganizer.png" height="200" width="171" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1 ///</b> <a href="http://blog.imbreannarose.com/streamline-your-process/#more-12116">Streamline Your Process</a> - Breanna Rose has become one of my favorite blogs as of late. She nails me on the head with her second tip about working your best hours. As I go into this week, I'm going to make a conscious effort to utilize my best hours and not force myself into that eight hour straight mindset. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>2 ///</b> <a href="http://jayadores.com/2014/09/09/freelance-finances/">Freelance Finances</a> - A quick, yet insightful post about how Jay Adores handles her finances working for herself. She's a former accountant so she has to know a little something about money, right? She suggests paying yourself twice a month just like a regular bi-weekly paycheck. After reading this, I've been re-evaluating how I'll be paying myself and my business in the future.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>3 ///</b> <a href="http://blog.kievonna.com/2014/09/free-download.html">Free Printable Blog Post Organizer</a> - Ya'll know I love a good organizing printable. This sophisticated blog post organizer from Art & Style has my heart fluttering. Not only is it designing beautifully, it's practical and functional. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you'd like to see more awesome posts on bloggings and business, be sure to check out my boards, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msain1/the-etsy-shop/">The Etsy Shop</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msain1/the-blog-world/">The Blogging World</a>, on Pinterest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it's your turn! Which blogs and/or posts about blogging and business have been helpful for you?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-25683497166555487012014-11-07T15:00:00.000-05:002014-11-07T15:00:00.892-05:00Etsy Find Friday + Slightly Unsightly Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_COaCoysOzhx4M68mRMAu-vrQsgjs391p2s_bdJSjax210FiIO-n9Q4qOr9_1UlLZfISlmh42uRMMvNVl1D_tH3vuz3hRkDaYSuAnemA8ZCRdz63iytULFRJfqwNAAoYspi43SBpzUGY/s1600/juniper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_COaCoysOzhx4M68mRMAu-vrQsgjs391p2s_bdJSjax210FiIO-n9Q4qOr9_1UlLZfISlmh42uRMMvNVl1D_tH3vuz3hRkDaYSuAnemA8ZCRdz63iytULFRJfqwNAAoYspi43SBpzUGY/s1600/juniper.jpg" height="83" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy Friday!<br />
<br />
I thought I would share one of my latest favorite Etsy finds - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/JuniperandIvy?ref=shopsection_shophome_leftnav">Juniper & Ivy</a>! In their shop, Jacqueline and Ashleigh sell unique, whimsical earrings from sustainable wooden products.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/186137469/cute-whale-earrings-cut-out-on-alder?ref=shop_home_active_6"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyn251xaNLvVVFnvRtWR-XkyMNVR1N9S-9qNUm29TNJwXc_JZWHFpe4ang1oJN_-9hIC-oGCTjsqx0ZesF8yCmp2Q_Ly_YBXGHyYS715pPUfFq3aDnC0Bl4GtRgWjB6fa29mlZ4EUyTM/s1600/whale.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
Some of these laser-engraved earrings also feature characters and symbols you'll probably recognize {and undoubtably love}.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/192355520/disney-minnie-mouse-silhouette-on-alder?ref=shop_home_active_2"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZU_bEDskDZu-Klrhv7fPX3W72SnpZiGOqPJXGjJKR4km16exYJyUav0Xe7EMr2GIdsHlxmCisVbBVzTNyIBe-C1zfF8GX2AavoM5-p6_Uu7PToOjpmzObFpmrs8aAQKdQbjYE3GxBXNY/s1600/storm.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/192355520/disney-minnie-mouse-silhouette-on-alder?ref=shop_home_active_2"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU0QNMgO6RmzhlyXvOrIwKiUvdFbZnyLZ3guXiCqANHw56LZ2grfvxjaGr-hoN2zErOLA5w760-UDQKkVGE1Q1vBwa-Ez0bJQDDPdWA6Llc4u1Bgah90viFZJqYPcBzDGsTSY_cbqV6MI/s1600/minnie.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All earrings from Juniper & Ivy are made from real Alder or Maple wood that is sustainably sourced from the USA. The earrings are made with Titanium posts and are hypoallergenic and nickel-free. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I also love following this shop on <a href="http://instagram.com/juniperandivydesigns">Instagram</a>. It's not uncommon for them to post flash sales and you can score some earrings for a great price if you have fast fingers. I was lucky enough to snag a pair of Mickey Mouse earrings and a pair of Minnie Mouse earrings during a flash sale a couple weeks ago. I plan on using them as stuffing stuffers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdz0vvscDiMrkl1TskAjhC0fJmHm8B-_FH7lXu3vyEZQPgmEWkb11OzXypPIpehDPOdFXD9Ae2G7G6f4HloM8Zzr3RPrV7YWUMs0N3e7bsjTMmtpdpb7bNLzy245WwwmymSQQd2jDhR4/s1600/SlightlyUnsightlyTeaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdz0vvscDiMrkl1TskAjhC0fJmHm8B-_FH7lXu3vyEZQPgmEWkb11OzXypPIpehDPOdFXD9Ae2G7G6f4HloM8Zzr3RPrV7YWUMs0N3e7bsjTMmtpdpb7bNLzy245WwwmymSQQd2jDhR4/s1600/SlightlyUnsightlyTeaser.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, just a heads up! <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">It is time for <a href="http://etsy.me/1x9mUWw">PaperLark Studio's Slightly Unsightly Sale</a> which only happens ONCE a year. Whether it's smudging, proofreading failures, misprints or just discontinuing a product, mistakes and change happen. Time for you to cash in on my slightly unsightly, perfectly imperfect products! Every item is sold as-is. These items have been marked down 40-50% off their regular price! Every item is perfectly functional, just a tad funky with a bit more character! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Sale ends Monday, November 10th! It's only while supplies last so you better jump on it!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> <a href="http://etsy.me/1x9mUWw">{Check out the sale here}</a></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a fabulous weekend ya'll!</span>MirandaAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-84768161845432576012014-11-06T11:30:00.000-05:002014-11-06T11:30:01.198-05:00Easy No-Sew Tree Skirt Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHYoEqIGzf_-O6n-N5Nx5ZJk28M8Rm1wJFfEig7jbTrKK9lCPSqOZmLuXkfYP5TRDZutYN4YcV7ezrHWYMHJyrxHJA4hPBCEKRCp4sPn8H5o0Pmln3s8t6-FFWIPCR0TLQ-pHPwxzPyQ/s1600/TreeSkirtHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHYoEqIGzf_-O6n-N5Nx5ZJk28M8Rm1wJFfEig7jbTrKK9lCPSqOZmLuXkfYP5TRDZutYN4YcV7ezrHWYMHJyrxHJA4hPBCEKRCp4sPn8H5o0Pmln3s8t6-FFWIPCR0TLQ-pHPwxzPyQ/s1600/TreeSkirtHeader.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Once upon a time {a.k.a. last month}, I decided to hunt for a larger Christmas tree. Last Christmas was our first in the house. The husband and I both agreed that our skinny, apartment-friendly six-footer looked a little out of place in our much larger living area.<br />
<br />
I'd like to take a moment to get on my soap box: <i>Why are artificial Christmas trees $300 or more? Are you people crazy?!</i> That said, I hunted for my larger tree on Craigslist. Ha! After about a week or so of hunting, we bought a 7.5 foot Christmas tree for $35.<br />
<br />
When we got it home, I wanted to put it together to a) revel in my thrifty, money-saving prowess and b) make sure I had all the pieces. After nearly two and a half hours of sorting through color-coded branches, I finally got that darn thing up and it was <i>huge</i>.<br />
<br />
After seeing how fat and round the bottom of my new tree was, I knew my old, dinky tree skirt wouldn't even be visible. I needed a tree skirt that was 56" or bigger for this tree and those aren't cheap either at $60 or more.<br />
<br />
The motto for this tutorial? Look for it on Craigslist. If you can't find it on Craigslist, make it.<br />
<br />
<b>Quick note:</b> I purchased a 60" round tablecloth to use as the base of my tree skirt. It was cheaper than purchasing burlap fabric at the store. Plus, it saved me time from having to sew and hem the edges. The diameter of my tree is 55 inches. Here's how I made my 62" no-sew tree skirt:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyadFMDRLhW9O6q2rRunWe65QG7c6MuyO6KyRGPEdDWLv3cqeyHMSaQEuEGhYAgv785Ubip-U_c6HViLrkBfrScw4X8SoGLY1h-ft6TFlJWGbT1XTUkazdlN256hZbOoRy9hAFZKcUiSk/s1600/DSC_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyadFMDRLhW9O6q2rRunWe65QG7c6MuyO6KyRGPEdDWLv3cqeyHMSaQEuEGhYAgv785Ubip-U_c6HViLrkBfrScw4X8SoGLY1h-ft6TFlJWGbT1XTUkazdlN256hZbOoRy9hAFZKcUiSk/s1600/DSC_0148.JPG" height="140" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Round Tablecloth</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Paper Plate</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Scissors</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>6" Burlap Ribbon (I used about 100 yards) </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hot Glue Gun</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Glue Sticks</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>String</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Large Threader Needle</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BC1206atK_ctmQRQCeSVMrDsxf-b1KM8fpRReSyDPDgA4ml0htIAEaXS1wpdOX0bJGziImbm-2mFSFw3OFa3bNU6e4GshyphenhyphenkD388cqwR8FqT3l0LHTtRil56ci90e_ZxrwIARD5xPTKc/s1600/DSC_0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BC1206atK_ctmQRQCeSVMrDsxf-b1KM8fpRReSyDPDgA4ml0htIAEaXS1wpdOX0bJGziImbm-2mFSFw3OFa3bNU6e4GshyphenhyphenkD388cqwR8FqT3l0LHTtRil56ci90e_ZxrwIARD5xPTKc/s1600/DSC_0154.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Step One. </b>Fold your tablecloth into quarters. Using your paper plate as a guide, trace a quarter circle on the folded tablecloth corner. Cut along your traced line.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBkF5I2tidqy0eieS77XXjOKNhgTcIQ1cgeTavuXR63Q6WRnbEUiUvA-Zvb6Z5SUmzck8TPGyncrIcfft2gr4l4K1ePJ5il9hdlbxAefEMOsw4OdSOn5pgRy0TmlDQ6JoN6Ey1BWiCMM/s1600/DSC_0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBkF5I2tidqy0eieS77XXjOKNhgTcIQ1cgeTavuXR63Q6WRnbEUiUvA-Zvb6Z5SUmzck8TPGyncrIcfft2gr4l4K1ePJ5il9hdlbxAefEMOsw4OdSOn5pgRy0TmlDQ6JoN6Ey1BWiCMM/s1600/DSC_0155.JPG" height="200" width="137" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step Two. </b>Gather your burlap ribbon to make the ruffle. To do this, thread your string (yarn would work just as well) through the burlap using the large threader needle. {<i>Note: Initially, I tried using regular thread, but it wasn't heavy duty enough to pull my burlap ribbon into a ruffle with.}</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRBx4433gC7xnEoFpVJnNrha3FvR6z2rrQCd2v66K5UDQNBNanYjyj5m-HRCUuxTayCZorlPyAg5RSMhpAgIR8IF56IRsaGRsLv995KHxSkztp1uEosQeGjUHnpGwONc09343563OLlo/s1600/DSC_0158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRBx4433gC7xnEoFpVJnNrha3FvR6z2rrQCd2v66K5UDQNBNanYjyj5m-HRCUuxTayCZorlPyAg5RSMhpAgIR8IF56IRsaGRsLv995KHxSkztp1uEosQeGjUHnpGwONc09343563OLlo/s1600/DSC_0158.JPG" height="225" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i></i>Gather your burlap ribbon on the string to create the ruffle. You'll have to do this with each roll of your burlap ribbon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHkzxXmf-1fR63ZaqSkK2HnWKTQA3YfgnW8Ug6FTQuotejhpbbQc6x9t5RkHMtualmqteo2A42GbtR6CPEvmKZCR034flcosBK6Kc8y4XXxqdligYskmd-Cz6l5OxYWmsdBicjU4CPt4/s1600/DSC_0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHkzxXmf-1fR63ZaqSkK2HnWKTQA3YfgnW8Ug6FTQuotejhpbbQc6x9t5RkHMtualmqteo2A42GbtR6CPEvmKZCR034flcosBK6Kc8y4XXxqdligYskmd-Cz6l5OxYWmsdBicjU4CPt4/s1600/DSC_0157.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step Three. </b>Once your burlap ribbon is all gathered and ready to go, simply glue the gathered edge around tablecloth hem. {Another perk to using the tablecloth - you don't have to worry about the glue seeping through the burlap! Just keep the glue on the hem.}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I didn't make an opening for my tree skirt. I like the solid, uniform look of my tree skirt. I just laid it over the top of the tree stand and then assembled the tree. To create an opening, simply cut a straight line from your hem to your middle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In total, I spent about <b>$25</b> on this tree skirt. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRACPTHwV9lhVw_qWR5BsC-sPrm0nxwaN7TE4PvkzNuIiqSAL9GCQCUvtXvMCwoye8pFIUEbw9DQfa6u7yP-fNIJqSvkkuEeUEEW32WGcx7ircWFaG0HDNEJLbF128Tgsq5umorxin7k/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRACPTHwV9lhVw_qWR5BsC-sPrm0nxwaN7TE4PvkzNuIiqSAL9GCQCUvtXvMCwoye8pFIUEbw9DQfa6u7yP-fNIJqSvkkuEeUEEW32WGcx7ircWFaG0HDNEJLbF128Tgsq5umorxin7k/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As for the super-sized Christmas tree I bought on Craigslist? After it took so long to put together, I didn't bother taking it down. It has lived displayed in all its undecorated glory in the corner of our bedroom for the last month. However, as soon as November rolled around, I got that thing out of there so it could breath with its pretty, new tree skirt. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This means I can get all of my other Christmas decor out, right? Oh Christmas, how I love you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy creating!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-38071202976066074282014-10-30T10:35:00.000-04:002014-10-30T10:35:13.736-04:00Tutorial: DIY Display Riser<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAbwyKeMfcDWWgSkuNjcsbnwCHK_irJDV3-hjzzTEWMAKtE7TCidARCwYWUmASaZBo9b2Le2zb87i7Csfmahs8KpoUCgrhWHNQkblR0nQVs-o9AnO4lGy3qVuJn7MRy3IahbVgFRHteI/s1600/DSC_0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAbwyKeMfcDWWgSkuNjcsbnwCHK_irJDV3-hjzzTEWMAKtE7TCidARCwYWUmASaZBo9b2Le2zb87i7Csfmahs8KpoUCgrhWHNQkblR0nQVs-o9AnO4lGy3qVuJn7MRy3IahbVgFRHteI/s1600/DSC_0150.JPG" height="320" width="268" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My last three craft shows of the year are rapidly approaching. This was my first year of throwing my hat into the craft show ring. Since starting in April, my booth display has been in constant evolution. I created my final display piece just in time for the holidays - a display riser for my cards.<br />
<br />
Before, I had the cards laid out on the table. I learned very quickly that in order to draw customers into your booth you have to let your products be easily visible. To do that, I needed a display that gave my cards height. Solution? A display riser!<br />
<br />
I decided to try my hand at constructing one myself so I could make it to suit my needs. Mostly, I wanted a riser that would hold my cards securely because you never know how the wind will treat you if you're selling outside. To combat that issue, I added elastic around three of my display's steps.<br />
<br />
Here's how I made my display riser:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>2 pieces of large foam core board</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hot glue gun & glue sticks</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Box cutter</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Tape measure</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Pencil</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Elastic {optional}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Kraft paper wrap {optional}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Step One. </b>Create your riser sides. I measured 5 inches over and then 5 inches up, marking my stairs. Do this until you reach your desired height.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9-kNA73Y_5nbPELUon9LKhr5zZ0ZtjXVfE8Cc78f6h66DmD1MsBEbo9XKf5ZFAJvfnxllVw5kVB0mTSNTwPwx9NQXzokMxgmw8f_ZmmvBkceeQepSoeyTbfOYPRq_yoHAR5Ey6ZNq20/s1600/tuesday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9-kNA73Y_5nbPELUon9LKhr5zZ0ZtjXVfE8Cc78f6h66DmD1MsBEbo9XKf5ZFAJvfnxllVw5kVB0mTSNTwPwx9NQXzokMxgmw8f_ZmmvBkceeQepSoeyTbfOYPRq_yoHAR5Ey6ZNq20/s1600/tuesday2.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Step Two. </b>Using your box cutter, cut out your sides. I used one sheet of my foam core board for the sides and used the second to create my stairs.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCrzBDysMpOBCqTsYQznv_qrvYsTQB_1MSVZrG9m_MwdrZ1ccMbd1_QctEEL-j9Zo93jXE_nVRVcIJmvAV2glxPCe0cHZvLC_OL95mothS2eUIZa8aV0e2eDrX7kvKa4DeMSOOK3KleU/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCrzBDysMpOBCqTsYQznv_qrvYsTQB_1MSVZrG9m_MwdrZ1ccMbd1_QctEEL-j9Zo93jXE_nVRVcIJmvAV2glxPCe0cHZvLC_OL95mothS2eUIZa8aV0e2eDrX7kvKa4DeMSOOK3KleU/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7JK99eYvWXuaDYX6yQcoN9riXK_FvJl5IGX-PXVIXrTqS7HLY6gBaa-xgIrpYN44I2wnzVBoUnSNsUCkIQOTJGSSrYp12jR-50L4DZUPxk4-CGMQosS7jAhLRvBNINfMwo-WhD5hnOc/s1600/DSC_0141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7JK99eYvWXuaDYX6yQcoN9riXK_FvJl5IGX-PXVIXrTqS7HLY6gBaa-xgIrpYN44I2wnzVBoUnSNsUCkIQOTJGSSrYp12jR-50L4DZUPxk4-CGMQosS7jAhLRvBNINfMwo-WhD5hnOc/s1600/DSC_0141.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step Three. </b>Measure out your stairs every 5 inches on the second piece of foam core board and cut. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step Four. </b>Let's assemble your risers. {If you'd like to wrap your riser like I did, now is when you'll want to wrap each piece individually.} Stand your side panels up using something to prop each up. Line your stairs up with your sides and glue to secure the stair to the side. Do this with each flat stair. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRkL6QzsU9fzRQe0NJzAksEr_54Pl-8s7pdqVnjYo7c5_jTKYSQBhiq8p4j86BTjIRZEEfyf3fQ9PLBNaqspOqPQ2VDXAI7WeMR9MoVLVIlj1WEdxBaWgJZbOdCFJtG7Ha1oUff4-4No/s1600/DSC_0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRkL6QzsU9fzRQe0NJzAksEr_54Pl-8s7pdqVnjYo7c5_jTKYSQBhiq8p4j86BTjIRZEEfyf3fQ9PLBNaqspOqPQ2VDXAI7WeMR9MoVLVIlj1WEdxBaWgJZbOdCFJtG7Ha1oUff4-4No/s1600/DSC_0147.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Step Five. </b>If you'd like to add the elastic as a securing mechanism, glue it tautly on your remaining stairs. Now, glue the vertical stairs onto your riser. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcEXn5fY-RRAT8O-R2pr_Fv9cC8aeI-6LOkSXzJOp5BSMtFUn_RZqi_jPP3ZxBmPc6wQxBTA4lc4jLfcfnGoxyetjM6cNl_Gvl-ORq5UyAYFXZeZLmGr1I6I8bfDVwiKyp3TWRm9K-Mw/s1600/DSC_0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcEXn5fY-RRAT8O-R2pr_Fv9cC8aeI-6LOkSXzJOp5BSMtFUn_RZqi_jPP3ZxBmPc6wQxBTA4lc4jLfcfnGoxyetjM6cNl_Gvl-ORq5UyAYFXZeZLmGr1I6I8bfDVwiKyp3TWRm9K-Mw/s1600/DSC_0149.JPG" height="320" width="280" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There you have it! A DIY card display riser. <span style="text-align: center;">For further instruction, I loosely followed </span><a href="http://www.sennandsons.com/diy-display-risers" style="text-align: center;">this tutorial</a><span style="text-align: center;"> for reference.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Happy crafting!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">Miranda</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-36424800354902333492014-10-23T14:00:00.000-04:002014-10-23T14:00:42.653-04:00How I Got A Silhouette Cameo for $162 Less Than Retail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7vxXlAPhdcTGjjag8o9pkv64hC2yoYlWymRdV4gIORuZJKE5Ldp4pSKIOdJJtQjbNnrbRc80ANWKaxk2PwVpIZZ0o-ck0e-Pq80ZsTMSvXq0h4tuJSY-4zL4oDUqmAcmX3J1g5gsfKY/s1600/cameoheader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7vxXlAPhdcTGjjag8o9pkv64hC2yoYlWymRdV4gIORuZJKE5Ldp4pSKIOdJJtQjbNnrbRc80ANWKaxk2PwVpIZZ0o-ck0e-Pq80ZsTMSvXq0h4tuJSY-4zL4oDUqmAcmX3J1g5gsfKY/s1600/cameoheader.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio">PaperLark Studio</a> has its Christmas present already - <a href="http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/">a Silhouette Cameo</a>! I've been eyeballing this cutting machine for my business since last Christmas. After I spent two solid days slicing and dicing 200 program fans by hand for a wedding order last June, there was no doubt I <i>needed </i>to add a cutter of some sort to my equipment to save my thumbs from carpal tunnel.<br />
<br />
With a retail price tag of $299 for just the Cameo, I knew it would be a pretty sizable purchase in order to get everything I needed for it. When you own your own business, a penny saved really is a penny earned {like seriously!}. Unfortunately, my usual go-to money saving tactic of using a 40% off coupon at Hobby Lobby or Michaels wouldn't work for this. These coupons don't apply to Silhouette cutting machines.<br />
<br />
When I know that I'll be making dropping a good bit of money on a purchase, I price watch. By price watching, I'll know a good deal when I see one. Another good thing to do? Research the Black Friday price for the item. It has been my experience that this is usually when the company will offer the best, rock bottom price.<br />
<br />
After I researched a little and price watched for a few months, I knew that the average low price for a Silhouette was $269 and usually came with a free bundle pack.<br />
<br />
Now then, I'd like to introduce you to <a href="http://www.google.com/shopping">Google Shopping</a> if you haven't yet formally met this time-saving tool. By searching for Silhouette Cameo, it will pull up every price from every place online that sells this sucker. In addition to saving you time from checking multiple sites, it'll also allow you to see where it is being sold at the lowest price.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eBhZaYhyphenhyphenuT6pQUmdgvZKX1iNsucKwR9mSkgZgnnJKyXmigP76xUt8KAETs6Bsj51nnnt8KDQjQOEH9ZkZDC4aqW9rCirsVc5N6gzU6Xfln5RDfhZw2DY_NJmVdtOZ46lGLQBsoZ1UoA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+12.20.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eBhZaYhyphenhyphenuT6pQUmdgvZKX1iNsucKwR9mSkgZgnnJKyXmigP76xUt8KAETs6Bsj51nnnt8KDQjQOEH9ZkZDC4aqW9rCirsVc5N6gzU6Xfln5RDfhZw2DY_NJmVdtOZ46lGLQBsoZ1UoA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-23+at+12.20.21+PM.png" height="165" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I would check the price of the Silhouette on Google Shopping every couple of weeks. After a few months of routinely checking, <a href="http://overstock.com/">Overstock.com</a> had dropped its price to <a href="http://www.overstock.com/Crafts-Sewing/Die-Cut-Machines/19136/subcat.html?gclid=CjwKEAjwzqKiBRCAydTZzOLi9CISJACm3irWi7_ccHgL9c4DbIdgvea5Z1H2bL6lW4sOSGP8tn-ymhoC8dDw_wcB&featuredproduct=8939754&featuredoption=12737332&cid=202290&kid=9553000357392&track=pspla&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=16153255-000-000&ef_id=VCA4dgAABcYNdjWE:20141023161702:s">$229 with a pretty impressive bundle package</a>.<br />
<br />
Lastly, to knock a few extra dollars off my price, I checked <a href="http://www.retailmenot.com/">Retail Me Not</a> {<i>which I love</i>} for any applicable coupon code. There I found a code for 10% off + Free Shipping on any order over $50. With the coupon code, it brought my total to $209.99!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiim39HfYzJCov23Wr8PQU_LYpv4Am2dCwb9nrhq-sCbtkelLS8Zg3nlsTLQpGOOE17en8BomuUhy6-ZaX_p48MKXktdvxLgtr6W3EsL5l_upRkNI6RbWoEEY8qFDRpoHU2Nu7tgrH8LeY/s1600/DSC_0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiim39HfYzJCov23Wr8PQU_LYpv4Am2dCwb9nrhq-sCbtkelLS8Zg3nlsTLQpGOOE17en8BomuUhy6-ZaX_p48MKXktdvxLgtr6W3EsL5l_upRkNI6RbWoEEY8qFDRpoHU2Nu7tgrH8LeY/s1600/DSC_0147.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Here's a break down of what all I got and the numbers:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWxrfcS_Jz4yvxZ9nUb7895QfdHrT00AKkW6j8QP3Zax9rXWBFU9Ozu3kRMn4tzedDa9Bect0CRyziBAstAsUu2H0m_IFH_NNaT5xw7OsfkY__xzuA7vxnloAqt5BppXxJslzKbmuVTs/s1600/cameobreakdown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWxrfcS_Jz4yvxZ9nUb7895QfdHrT00AKkW6j8QP3Zax9rXWBFU9Ozu3kRMn4tzedDa9Bect0CRyziBAstAsUu2H0m_IFH_NNaT5xw7OsfkY__xzuA7vxnloAqt5BppXxJslzKbmuVTs/s1600/cameobreakdown.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't hardly wait to bust out my Silhouette and get to cutting. I foresee invitations of all different shapes in PaperLark's future and maybe some gift tags! Knowing how much money I saved, makes me that much more excited about it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy shopping!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-73460492249877763392014-10-21T11:33:00.000-04:002014-10-21T11:33:50.179-04:00Project Life: Preparing for A Week in the Life + FREE Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnI6uR0qzJTAX0-Dc6_SrPBiqV-EU_TcvSzi5QdqJCzQNnWkNo_3ugylNNLZgpQFP_neZaZx873SHXjhCtXoc_cqtjUlvB0uj8gAYjzo5YEp0lpdk2G0r3EQpA3LRUbMQ69juxrLEWQmE/s1600/DSC_0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnI6uR0qzJTAX0-Dc6_SrPBiqV-EU_TcvSzi5QdqJCzQNnWkNo_3ugylNNLZgpQFP_neZaZx873SHXjhCtXoc_cqtjUlvB0uj8gAYjzo5YEp0lpdk2G0r3EQpA3LRUbMQ69juxrLEWQmE/s1600/DSC_0144.JPG" height="640" width="444" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
After successfully tackling a <a href="http://paperlarkstudio.blogspot.com/2013/12/my-december-daily.html">December Daily album last year</a>, I've decided to try to join in with <a href="https://aliedwards.com/projects/week-in-the-life">Ali Edwards and tackle a "Week in the Life" project</a>. {To learn more about the "Week in the Life" project, <a href="https://aliedwards.com/projects/week-in-the-life">click here</a>.} This documentary project seeks to capture a true snapshot about the details of your day-to-day life.</div>
<br />
Clearly, I don't document every single day in my Project Life albums. While the albums tend to record exciting events like going to my first Falcons game or my sister winning the homecoming crown, "Week in the Life" will help give my album a true sense of what our daily life looks like at the moment.<br />
<br />
As I learned by tackling my December Daily album last year, planning ahead is the key to success. I plan on sticking these pages in my regular, yearly album. While Ali's project calls for a separate album, I don't think it's necessary. After all, I'm doing this to add more depth to my current album. I plan on distinguishing these pages from the rest by using a different core kit and making a title page in my yearly album.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3EIsSu6WENgeBH6qfq2b5b5W2yWRjkgat1DiMFcHo_zF4m1ewj27iJ_ywMhmH_qB4IOodsea5wjQi4J2BnYOkWg7eEiJ1qbLv3eEPSziY-Cs_KG62_zyBZz_E-J3ESNWNd8u8xCA6D0/s1600/DSC_0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3EIsSu6WENgeBH6qfq2b5b5W2yWRjkgat1DiMFcHo_zF4m1ewj27iJ_ywMhmH_qB4IOodsea5wjQi4J2BnYOkWg7eEiJ1qbLv3eEPSziY-Cs_KG62_zyBZz_E-J3ESNWNd8u8xCA6D0/s1600/DSC_0142.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've also created some free printables to accompany my "Week in the Life" project. I created these to specifically capture some key pieces of our daily life that I'd like to remember. The printable includes:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
- HIS Interview 3x4 Card</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- HER Interview 3x4 Card</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- On the Menu 3x4 Card</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- Home Stats 3x4 Card</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- Recipe 4x6 Card</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0Z8rrkr1WHrSGlJVS1lc0YxUEk/view?usp=sharing">DOWNLOAD YOUR CARDS HERE</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The printable is a PDF. In order to ensure your cards will print to the correct size, select Preview>Size to Fit>Fill Entire Paper. </div>
<br />
Like Ali's project this year, I will be documenting my "Week in the Life" from Monday, October 27th to Sunday, November 2nd. Below, I've laid out my day-by-day plan. You'll also find a collection of resources to help complete the project at the bottom.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Day One - October 27th (Focus on Daily Routine)</li>
<ul>
<li>One - Two Pictures</li>
<li>Record my day hour-to-hour</li>
<ul>
<li>Will use the Daily Sheets in Resources</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>Day Two - October 28th (Personalities/Likes/Dislikes)</li>
<ul>
<li>One picture per person in our household</li>
<ul>
<li>Accompany picture with Interview Insert from Printable</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>Day Three - October 29th (Food and Weather)</li>
<ul>
<li>One - Two Pictures</li>
<li>Our menu for the week using Printable</li>
<li>Our local weather for the week</li>
<li>Insert favorite recipes using Printable</li>
</ul>
<li>Day Four - October 30th (At Home)</li>
<ul>
<li>Two - Three Pictures</li>
<li>House Stat Card using Printable</li>
</ul>
<li>Day Five - October 31st (Halloween)</li>
<ul>
<li>Two - Three Pictures</li>
<li>Snapshots of Halloween Decor</li>
<li>Picture of how we spent the holiday</li>
</ul>
<li>Day Six - November 1st (Pets)</li>
<ul>
<li>One picture of each pet</li>
<ul>
<li>Accompany with pet bio for each</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>Day Seven - November 2nd (Out and About) </li>
<ul>
<li>Stores we frequent</li>
<li>What we buy</li>
<ul>
<li>Insert grocery receipt from the week</li>
</ul>
<li>How we get there</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Resources</u></div>
<div>
<a href="http://cdn.aliedwards.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/AEdwards_WeekInTheLifeDocumentation.pdf">Week in the Life Planning Daily Sheets</a> - Free printable to help record your day-to-day activities<br />
<a href="http://paperlarkstudio.blogspot.com/2014/06/how-to-save-on-project-life.html">How to Save $$$ on Project Life</a> - Tips on how to tackle this project on a tight budget<br />
<a href="http://noexcusescrapbooking.com/week-in-the-life-what-to-document/">Week in the Life: What to Document</a> - Infographic with ideas of what to document<br />
<a href="http://www.myscrapbookart.com/blog/?p=1658">Project Life: Keeping Your Sanity</a> - Free planning pages + ideas of what to document<br />
<br />
Happy crafting!<br />
Miranda<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-37329470300439496322014-10-10T15:53:00.001-04:002014-10-10T15:53:36.599-04:00How Great Is Our God<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0h28mU6yiU2QEM6EvVn4mk4qmUlMFm6Iv1vOvQCwvxx74GFClsrUZM5hVKhaUQ5C4hV0v7mMKBhwNFqqKUwDbqxV4X2KhtKg6CR3N17j6JYtaZf0EJZjaLN2hC_rUwJX-soFsHbAYjM/s640/blogger-image--1351591131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0h28mU6yiU2QEM6EvVn4mk4qmUlMFm6Iv1vOvQCwvxx74GFClsrUZM5hVKhaUQ5C4hV0v7mMKBhwNFqqKUwDbqxV4X2KhtKg6CR3N17j6JYtaZf0EJZjaLN2hC_rUwJX-soFsHbAYjM/s400/blogger-image--1351591131.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you follow me on social media (especially on my personal account), then you already know this week has been caulked full of emotion and stress.</div>
<br />
Monday night, we almost lost my step-father-in-law. He has been battling congestive heart failure close to four years now. To make a long story short, he had surgery Monday morning to replace his LVAD heart pump for the third time in the last three years.<br />
<br />
To fully grasp the awesomeness of this story, the doctors had only given him a ~20 percent chance of making it off the operating table when they had put in the two previous pumps. By the pure grace of God, he made it through <i>both </i>times relatively unscathed. By God's power, he had overcome the odds <i>twice</i>.<br />
<br />
We knew he would be facing the same risks with this replacement surgery, but the doctor was confident. The doctor was more worried about complication during his recovery. After six or seven hours, the doctor emerged from the operating room to let us know that he had done wonderfully through the surgery and there were no complications. However, the doctor did mention he was still bleeding some, but once that was under control we could see him.<br />
<br />
A couple hours later, one of the nurses told us he was still bleeding and they were having a hard time getting it under control. We began to get a little nervous, but kept praying.<br />
<br />
Around 7:30 p.m., three nurses came running out of the ICU and basically told my mother-in-law he was bleeding so profusely they didn't know if he was going to make it and we needed to come say our goodbyes in case he didn't. They had used every ounce of blood in the hospital and had called in more from the American Red Cross. They had pumped him full of medicine to help the blood clot in hopes it would stop the bleeding, but nothing was working.<br />
<br />
A team of nurses continued to work on him all night long doing everything in their power to recycle the blood and stabilize him. All we could do was wait and pray. We watched as the worker from the Red Cross ran through the waiting room with a cooler of blood in his hand. A couple hours after that, we saw another worker with another cooler run by.<br />
<br />
At one point, his hemoglobin dropped dangerously low. The next day the nurse told us that your hemoglobin shouldn't drop below 15 - his dropped to 4 which isn't even life sustaining. At that point, if he did make it, our next concern would be brain damage from the lack of oxygen to his brain.<br />
<br />
Having spent the last four years in and out of the cardiac unit, our family knows what a Code Blue is. In the wee hours of Tuesday morning, the intercom called a Code Blue to his ICU room. He was in cardiac arrest.<br />
<br />
By the grace of God, they got him back and continued their work trying to stop the bleeding. No sooner had we all settled back into the waiting room, that terrible intercom called another Code Blue to his room. He had coded twice in an hour and half. He was bleeding so much that the gauze used to soak up the blood was compressing against his heart causing it to stop.<br />
<br />
After bringing him back once more, the nurses placed a brace between his heart and the gauze to stop the compressing. He was fighting. God was fighting too. By God's miracle, he made it until the doctor arrived to do an exploratory surgery in a last ditch effort to stop the bleeding.<br />
<br />
After about three hours, the doctor found it. One of the arteries in his chest, fragile from the rigor of the disease, had burst. He was able to close it and the bleeding stopped.<br />
<br />
We would find out the next morning that we wiped out the hospital and the Georgia Blood Bank of palates and his blood type. The hospital had to cancel surgeries the next day because there were no palates left. The nurses had used it all trying to keep him alive.<br />
<br />
The last count we heard was 86 pints of blood. <b>Eighty six. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
He still wasn't out of the woods yet. He was still under heavy sedation so we didn't know if there was brain damage. As they stopped sedation and took him off of life support, we prayed and hoped he would give a response - a tiny move of his hand or a grimace of pain. <i>Something</i>.<br />
<b><br /></b>
Seven grueling hours later, he wrinkled his brow when the nurses moved him. I don't think our family has ever rejoiced so much over a wrinkled brow. He kept slowly progressing in his responses throughout the day by moving his head and arms. When my sister-in-law was at his bedside and told him she loved him, he moved his mouth as if trying to tell her he loved her too. Of course, she promptly broken down in tears and proceeded to fuss at him for scaring the living <b><i>crap</i></b> out of all of us.<br />
<br />
He still has a long road to go, but he's continuing to head in the right direction every day. Our hope is that this heart pump will make him strong enough to live a long life and possibly even to a heart transplant. He has been through so much and beaten so many odds.<br />
<br />
After witnessing first hand what has taken place over the last week, there <b><i>is</i></b> a God. He is my God and He is powerful beyond measure. My faith in the true, living God is affirmed more and more every day. He is worthy to be praised.<br />
<br />
Lastly, I wanted to personally thank each one of you who prayed and sent your love to us. I believe in the power of prayer and know you helped keep my step-father-in-law here with us for a little more time. My heart is so humbled and so appreciative of my brothers and sisters in Christ.<br />
<br />
The thought to write this post has been on my heart for much of the week. When requesting prayers, I didn't divulge into too much detail about why the prayer was needed or what all was going on. Now, I believe our story can serve as a testimony as to how powerful and great our God is. Even though it pales in comparison to how your prayers have blessed us this week, I hope this testimony blesses you in some small way.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;">"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid;</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-5861A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-5861A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; text-align: start; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"> do not be discouraged,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-5861B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-5861B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; text-align: start; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;">for the </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"> your God will be with you wherever you go.”</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;">Joshua 1:9</span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></i></div>
With love always,<br />
Miranda<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-52516982017004816942014-10-08T16:28:00.000-04:002014-10-08T16:28:58.142-04:00Holiday 2014 Collection: Hand Lettered Christmas Cards Happy October!<br />
<br />
September was a complete blur for me. I spent the majority of the month hibernating in my office creating, designing, printing and sewing way on my Holiday 2014 Collection. There was card stock, fabric, straight pins, print outs and twine flying everywhere.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, the storm has settled and with October <i>finally</i> here, I can share my collection with you! I thought over the next week, I would personally introduce you to all of my new products, give some insight into the story behind them and how they were made.<br />
<br />
That said, meet my trio of hand lettered Christmas cards:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o6GKJpHw4nSMPUfWRddOuZSAf98xiQRE14gKJGu8VMTA4ol_Kp3UDY7sLxrOLgRPT7k7M3X22HJj6jNUP77gQDIZKC6PIen2-34EMj6CrqNm7O4hDYm01wq4Z2Pf4w6Bo_Prv9XcNlY/s1600/HandLetterCardHeader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o6GKJpHw4nSMPUfWRddOuZSAf98xiQRE14gKJGu8VMTA4ol_Kp3UDY7sLxrOLgRPT7k7M3X22HJj6jNUP77gQDIZKC6PIen2-34EMj6CrqNm7O4hDYm01wq4Z2Pf4w6Bo_Prv9XcNlY/s1600/HandLetterCardHeader.jpg" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For my Holiday 2014 Collection, I wanted to introduce something new that was completely different from anything else I'd done before. After mastering some newly learned Photoshop skills, I tried my hand (pun intended) at lettering some Christmas cards.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I listened to Christmas music while designing my holiday collection so naturally I pulled some lyrics from two of my favorite yule-tide songs: "My Favorite Things" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204839559/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things?ref=shop_home_active_24"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnccCj7RmWPcaDh-FfFIdqhEIjpsOJRzg3_ITEOFxuLjxEWVonkGEOzJWHXp7ktN67vIAgXtjeIoo_HCoTUGV_CDKPjotCpsTXWuNLbTlTmovMyOG1MnffFAIkwcMILTNE7ibXK52ztxs/s1600/DSC_0074.JPG" height="258" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Out of all the cards, I think this one is my personal favorite. It was the most time consuming of all three taking about three hours to complete all the while humming the song in my head. Even the photos in the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/204839559/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things">listing in the shop</a>, don't do it justice I think. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In fact, I love it so much I will be offering it as an art print exclusively at upcoming craft shows. However, I will be hosting a flash sale for these on my social media closer to Christmas so those of you outside of Georgia can snag one of your own. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That said, be sure you stalk me on <i>everything</i> below so you don't miss a thing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/mrswinslett"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59H4Y-4A2CatWYCDQTr6l5EYfr_Xdv0noEo3YZF7083N2DdYhnz2kTz3balocUXUKxftviY1hOQNaugBiquoTUQPqPy3_6_RZw3KmGRkHWYUwnWlkudLMugaPmn_Y4Av5kHCI6xNClns/s1600/instagram.png" /></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Paperlark-Studio/102474553156484"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAL1o6QePSwsqL2Ti1DqVGSJYImu5cdSsxzUvjGCrCC_5Y-XqO6RcL8qcDf3RNdsTCdl1dSRIlU0sWaVMT34g-3KelNeP-HvtRwOHYzCgucjZUplCPj9v3SplbXEHg-qiZaQk9goEAtis/s1600/facebook.png" /></a> <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msain1/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rLTXUBNAUugT-r3rfk6qasrAoyH4GHh2Y1_VBAbT1Gc-yqe5GUMaYqwLL9OTMM3DUOWt7LSeGGk1m039AOi8uikNkkHnPRgU1i0QH2-66SZPlKZsW9pHB_C4MAA-5kr79uKVr-8vf2k/s1600/pinterest.png" /></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MirandaSain"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUmqxegBtYyPvh3x6ovTErlKivtVBqE7yIkxoKYV7of09LBxbSWhI2aCzIdIEBxNXHC2O7isQve2bD2reXyH46FpWRwt8cIMrSoJPJlFF3MRjJK5WGQdL5chfQn0JZXn6vtBiMcm7cug/s1600/twitter.png" /></a> <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/mrandmrswinslett"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6IpN6aXPnqTTmWXzeIgdgyNoJ3zkgfuxeEXP3v19K78INKaafNYaw9zfdq6IJdG2TuMveI4kbCcFu_tqxPKHNPim_6MZli66BP7OlTQaFE9hzjuDv8j6lXHXfywM8eYU8HgsEMzI42o/s1600/bloglovin.png" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/paperlarkstudio"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmn9ScvKwoNVuj9Ne-sZUi-qAQkn_ovHF11V1LxpYxB8IuuvKQmNVbufW_jm09V-m1wZ3SNwKuGIzyC3Go-vSJSn1-a30uaFyXosE_p3P6_SBkY-Ut3WGFLzcKykOpDV7n1ICHcZ6AL74/s1600/etsy.png" /></a> <a href="http://bit.ly/1hYgqT5"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2C6VKey574FWhq9Orlh-_vS4Nopa5jzXAl2y8_7WeutPtyyFXtgetaBGuZCG4q8fVtLs8VhNVVsrWOT4kf6SRn98X7jHjh7MpZQg_En59cK3UUvEEdWkw3cBOEq4nEgXJTReH3Igr4Vo/s1600/email.png" /></a> <a href="https://plus.google.com/114057060710622166020/posts"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxOlAGI-Myqm2LE31hEtVCDgDYFOxSok3jvqI18KE1ipS0vAuNbu417iTjg12Rt0JV2Nmn9Ywa0JagaQ2HKk2c0Wm5OQReZFWhVekdVatSJSfG47SYn12HA-1uW-cWKkJfYRcKQhdhyA/s1600/googleplus.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204830684/tidings-of-comfort-and-joy-christmas?ref=shop_home_active_6"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBMa_qc6RiSR1v1DJPtP9UT6NLvXvwtNyvxR9-qIMIE0eCzxqjz5cl_Er0luevNIwWHBqTl0wATycXudJ9OPJpTZempIzuMIRQ70ixL4PaN6z6tjXnGMec4PGm75dHzYJjb-SEhGSvCU/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Judge me all you want for this one, but I absolutely <i>love </i>Glee's version of this Christmas song! It's one of those that gets stuck in my head. When something gets stuck in your head, you might as well put it on paper, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The simplicity of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204830684/tidings-of-comfort-and-joy-christmas?ref=shop_home_active_6">this card</a> is what I like the most about it. I would stick a family picture in it with a piece of pretty washi tape and mail these suckers out as Christmas cards to everyone. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This card has already been catching some eyes in the Etsy world too. Eleven minutes after it went up live in my shop, it was featured in an Etsy treasury. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTY4MTQ2Nzd8MjcyNjg2NzQ0MA/christmas-is-coming?index=9&atr_uid=">{Check that out here}</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204827654/may-visions-of-sugar-plums-twerk-in-your?ref=shop_home_active_2"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8aQBW1gAxFhOw_H_3ok2AkyrX4_2SLLqNQ6MXRnu0gKwG8rwLGYqWgFrGbaW710iuQYsMPs7kJf5GNe3wJ58o8eq9Y-wp8DJwT8GNzng9VBHg6VVzzvGW1mfEh038SQhPjoDO_lNHQkQ/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh, the funniest for last, right? The idea for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204827654/may-visions-of-sugar-plums-twerk-in-your?ref=shop_home_active_2">this silly card</a> actually came from my husband. He does his own version of what I lovingly refer to as "man twerking." He usually does it to make me laugh and it gets me every single time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Halfway through designing my 2014 line, I was stressin' out bad. He walked into my office, did a little man twerking to cheer me up and the saying for this card popped in my head. Who doesn't love a little pop culture humor mixed with a Christmas classic?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe one day, he'll let me post a video of his man twerk skills. It really is <i>that</i> awesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the concept for the cards was decided, I took a pen and doodled until my heart was content. Papers with half-drawn designs were littered all over my office floor most of last month. After I was completely satisfied with my drawing, I scanned it into the computer, did a little Photoshop magic and printed them into the cards.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Any of these cards may be purchased as singles or in packs of five. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperLarkStudio?section_id=16032692&ref=shopsection_leftnav_8">{Check out my full card selection here}</a> If you do want to send them out as Christmas cards to your whole family, I do offer large order/wholesale pricing. Just hit me up on Etsy and I'll give you a quote!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am definitely planning on doing more hand lettered cards in the future. They're a labor of love, but they allow me to take my creativity outside of the computer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Which is your favorite?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Miranda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-29791242730517843762014-10-01T20:27:00.000-04:002014-10-01T20:27:14.700-04:00Out of the Archives: BOO Wreath For Under $6<i>Happy October! With Halloween a mere 30 days out and lots of you looking for easy (and inexpensive) ideas, I thought I'd dig this wreath tutorial out of the archive graveyard. It was my most popular post for the month of October last year. Who doesn't love a festive way to decorate your front door for under $6?! Enjoy! - Miranda</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>{NOTE: This post has been slightly altered and edited for the purposes of updating it. To see the original post, you can find it <a href="http://paperlarkstudio.blogspot.com/2013/09/halloween-wreath-for-our-front-door.html">here</a>.}</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrKNwxqcwyEI8fVHn1lCfBWmqbkHnQRJ_DfvI9eXE52f7hE-t4bBCaQO6ogDwfkbo80dvBSjqkippbNTF5dDB1eqAMzfxuQ6l2K-DQnoz_-YGl29xnBm0kS-cKF6lZf05AZ1ZTLy-_Cw/s1600/BooHalloweenWreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrKNwxqcwyEI8fVHn1lCfBWmqbkHnQRJ_DfvI9eXE52f7hE-t4bBCaQO6ogDwfkbo80dvBSjqkippbNTF5dDB1eqAMzfxuQ6l2K-DQnoz_-YGl29xnBm0kS-cKF6lZf05AZ1ZTLy-_Cw/s400/BooHalloweenWreath.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">I created a Halloween wreath for the front door for a grand total of $5.58 (and that's including tax ya'll). It is officially September so it is socially acceptable to start decorating for Halloween, right?!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;" /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background: none 0% 0% repeat scroll rgb(255, 255, 255); border: none; box-shadow: none; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 2px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14y5y7OCajEJkd5ViY22c7X8yhslNbNIPikp7o1KR2EOt5Bc3PKRHDI0D7xlEEQ-JApkKQo7bqDlnEET6kbA18WdwanE750DK_Fk4Wlf5rG-6NlRDMBZffn7YDkV2mDk7dVXkTkboIoI/s1600/DSC_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14y5y7OCajEJkd5ViY22c7X8yhslNbNIPikp7o1KR2EOt5Bc3PKRHDI0D7xlEEQ-JApkKQo7bqDlnEET6kbA18WdwanE750DK_Fk4Wlf5rG-6NlRDMBZffn7YDkV2mDk7dVXkTkboIoI/s400/DSC_0108.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 0px 0px 0px; background: transparent; border: none; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 0px 0px 0px; max-width: 98%; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12px;">Please ignore my arm reflecting in the glass of the door...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
Being the craft supply hoarder that I am, I had most of the items for this project on hand like the paint and ribbon. All I had to buy were the letters which I got from Hobby Lobby for $1.74 each. </div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OyUWDj60XzxLNYvkQFycZfbudP9iOacULSg6Ub8VBJOAUdSALVZyMAVNmkKsCeIBzzVyCD37enqKIm5PbtgoCXpMUQWhcYlFtq3pGYeiHO0pPWSbzY3QNkaQif-uQHgbzwC_fKdSP5I/s1600/DSC_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OyUWDj60XzxLNYvkQFycZfbudP9iOacULSg6Ub8VBJOAUdSALVZyMAVNmkKsCeIBzzVyCD37enqKIm5PbtgoCXpMUQWhcYlFtq3pGYeiHO0pPWSbzY3QNkaQif-uQHgbzwC_fKdSP5I/s400/DSC_0104.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
Ready to try your hand at it? Here's what you need:</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
</div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Letters</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Black acrylic paint</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Orange acrylic paint</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Orange ribbon</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Q-tips</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Paper plate</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Hot glue gun</li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Scissors</li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>Step One. </b>Paint all three of your letters black and let dry. It only took one coat for me to cover the letters completely.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcoJeg5tzslQaT0oL5rMeQGLyhD73JQs2GWa5zD61YlAzEFIpP2M9VQqQWYypg_jjAh7DUW769HPGpNLQrqqEbcUcRaHmDdZugr677KmoMWP1WOX2yF7BCFSWUPBF1OsCjoT1TrEomL0M/s640/blogger-image-36519909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcoJeg5tzslQaT0oL5rMeQGLyhD73JQs2GWa5zD61YlAzEFIpP2M9VQqQWYypg_jjAh7DUW769HPGpNLQrqqEbcUcRaHmDdZugr677KmoMWP1WOX2yF7BCFSWUPBF1OsCjoT1TrEomL0M/s200/blogger-image-36519909.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="150" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>Step Two. </b>Once dry, squirt your orange paint on a paper plate and using your Q-tip, paint free-handed polka dots on your letters. Again, let the dots dry.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; color: #171717; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 2px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZd3sR2DIDeVjhBzR__ctyoukuVdkO2ipdb4xy2oABgVk0pdbiMrKRboeghe3Xjw7uXMEaLSFer4g1jMu8Tlcpet-zrG43-NJrXNMpb60oLq7Jybx0Jw84P8PFniuqsGSWopwOIWFp0NA/s640/blogger-image-1712683493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZd3sR2DIDeVjhBzR__ctyoukuVdkO2ipdb4xy2oABgVk0pdbiMrKRboeghe3Xjw7uXMEaLSFer4g1jMu8Tlcpet-zrG43-NJrXNMpb60oLq7Jybx0Jw84P8PFniuqsGSWopwOIWFp0NA/s200/blogger-image-1712683493.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 0px 0px 0px; background: transparent; border: none; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 0px 0px 0px; max-width: 98%; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12px;">I promise that's not yellow paint...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>Step Three. </b>Once the letters are completely dry, tie them together using your orange ribbon. I was worried about the ribbon wiggling lose because I just tied it into a bow so I hot glued the back of the ribbon to the back of the letter.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Fe82XvFxfIDFgkCnk3B2d7KasElr_1seHvRHY-YCJBBS6ECnr7SehxmDbds0QZNtllHSZ1Uyl9dYrM4Z0XHukrLEXNlHilDSkZkik8T-UvEGvu7Eygh0uJdzkGYwncE7A7zVq79_H5w/s640/blogger-image--1926266814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Fe82XvFxfIDFgkCnk3B2d7KasElr_1seHvRHY-YCJBBS6ECnr7SehxmDbds0QZNtllHSZ1Uyl9dYrM4Z0XHukrLEXNlHilDSkZkik8T-UvEGvu7Eygh0uJdzkGYwncE7A7zVq79_H5w/s200/blogger-image--1926266814.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="150" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<b>Step Four. </b>Secure the top ribbon that'll go on your wreath hanger with some hot glue. Once the hot glue has had time to dry and set, place that sucker on your front door.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAHdK4aceV9SPLU6dxZwNPBkrx056lgsqo0sscSmwbKt_HeUuV6AEu1u1Yv0TBpvb5zR11vtkf8jjIqMvg0mE56wt4JYJ-hp96LVhWFUBBJsFWYMgGAytSzq-5GlzTEfpQ2wFhRTxqB4/s640/blogger-image--1547114355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAHdK4aceV9SPLU6dxZwNPBkrx056lgsqo0sscSmwbKt_HeUuV6AEu1u1Yv0TBpvb5zR11vtkf8jjIqMvg0mE56wt4JYJ-hp96LVhWFUBBJsFWYMgGAytSzq-5GlzTEfpQ2wFhRTxqB4/s200/blogger-image--1547114355.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="150" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
I can't wait to get some pumpkins and some more mums to really bring my Halloween/fall front porch to life. Until then, Tibbolt, our garden gnome, will have to suffice. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmzGQ9o4zhlG1CSooL4d68OP_z8TBzO3gY4bAwygr-Mk_MLEQMRuWFqXru7ptRRt3oBcYkGdZdJFVLwxv41FIyX-g7jTgdkV1BNQz6AQrNHrEZwif9JXlN7KeIX_V0FT249gzu_XfGHg/s1600/DSC_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfmzGQ9o4zhlG1CSooL4d68OP_z8TBzO3gY4bAwygr-Mk_MLEQMRuWFqXru7ptRRt3oBcYkGdZdJFVLwxv41FIyX-g7jTgdkV1BNQz6AQrNHrEZwif9JXlN7KeIX_V0FT249gzu_XfGHg/s320/DSC_0107.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="277" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;" />
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
Happy creating!</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">
Miranda</div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;" />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #171717; font-family: 'Century Gothic', 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KXgSM3xGxLSjcVS58TQsLNyV6YNmDole-g9oSj1aF2IlcXn9BVCKjPfevEe4exePbJTX_g2cv17y0GQIGOvwHSrL0_ZcXyab7Qg3Lf75q7vcoI58tU5mWUtN_fc0_yXnmA6Yi5JngPQ/s1600/DSC_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: grey; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KXgSM3xGxLSjcVS58TQsLNyV6YNmDole-g9oSj1aF2IlcXn9BVCKjPfevEe4exePbJTX_g2cv17y0GQIGOvwHSrL0_ZcXyab7Qg3Lf75q7vcoI58tU5mWUtN_fc0_yXnmA6Yi5JngPQ/s400/DSC_0110.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; max-width: 98%; padding: 2px; position: relative;" width="265" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4692714393976193869.post-58517552915440330482014-09-25T12:00:00.000-04:002014-09-25T12:03:15.564-04:00Coweta Artisan Giveaway Feature: Snow&Company<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Happy Thursday! It's my pleasure to introduce you to Amanda of Snow&Company. She's a talented graphic designer hailing from Newnan. Though relatively new to the Etsy world, she's already marking her mark with whimsical prints and beautifully placed quotes. </i><i>Amanda was kind enough to contribute <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/198247614/and-that-was-all-she-had-to-say-about?ref=shop_home_active_3">one of her adorable art prints </a>to the giveaway. Take it away, Amanda!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYvp6cBWdDsd-qnZhly8QtBMi53dEx4EptzKEJXR8AI8PUdXpL2jEklyzW6ehg98ES0ikbTXnVgSiqljRtIbBbFn3Ye6doJGw2flqXXeK4fAmYhu8O463ZNqM_6FNV2WqcgOooDMjnb0/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYvp6cBWdDsd-qnZhly8QtBMi53dEx4EptzKEJXR8AI8PUdXpL2jEklyzW6ehg98ES0ikbTXnVgSiqljRtIbBbFn3Ye6doJGw2flqXXeK4fAmYhu8O463ZNqM_6FNV2WqcgOooDMjnb0/s1600/me.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Hi there! My name is Amanda Snow of Snow&Company, and I am a graphic designer working from my home studio in Newnan, Georgia. I am inspired by just about everything feminine! That doesn't always mean flowers and pink (although I love them both). I love a good quote, perfectly paired with colors and design! </span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
People often ask me, "What do you do with a print?" That questions always baffles me. You can put it in a frame and hang it up or put it in a frame and place it on your desk, table, side table, vanity, countertop, (insert table-like surface here). I love to have a print taped to my refrigerator, and I absolutely love my washi wall. All things (prints, quotes, pictures, fonts) that inspire me, hung on a wall with washi tape. My theory is that we change every day, our homes are living and breathing places that should change with us. If a print makes me happy, it's worth the purchase. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JtkVRG_eDi2LtCsQL65QG7nM3Aaakvs9gycZfPXk_O7kIbmbIdHvSuMSb6H1hqBvJoJlzyl73jJcXCy-KcdJp0hkcKCyAALOCB5tBBq_u2t1ahqqR6daxCUHfYxqUbK7bKZpz2hpEcA/s1600/sc3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JtkVRG_eDi2LtCsQL65QG7nM3Aaakvs9gycZfPXk_O7kIbmbIdHvSuMSb6H1hqBvJoJlzyl73jJcXCy-KcdJp0hkcKCyAALOCB5tBBq_u2t1ahqqR6daxCUHfYxqUbK7bKZpz2hpEcA/s1600/sc3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Surprisingly, most of my prints start with custom orders. Friends, family and thankfully now that I have become more established, strangers, give me quotes they would like to see in print form and I run with it! I have quite an eclectic style, so I run my prints through the filter: Would I put this in my house? If the answer is yes, I put it up for anyone to purchase from my shop!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I graduated from Auburn University in 2012 with a degree in Public Relations. Unfortunately, the job market wasn't at it's best, so I took to freelance writing for magazines. One of the magazines needed a full-time graphic designer, so I began my journey feet to the street. Youtube and Lynda.com were my best friends as I learned by doing. I fell head over heels in love with images and typography. Since then, I have added a few companies to my list and have become somewhat of a freelance graphic designer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgJxlD4whRjR8nzNuwX_9B4v7XPZY7G18fbfWrh-ISxdpZ_zmXJofg5sGqbkgSAXvg9EwBqhifOeo7xqFEyQ4cDSiiffts9YLtlQYv-C-LQMSYJTmjPO72N-HVGpIcXH2ZUj7wytp8A4/s1600/sc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgJxlD4whRjR8nzNuwX_9B4v7XPZY7G18fbfWrh-ISxdpZ_zmXJofg5sGqbkgSAXvg9EwBqhifOeo7xqFEyQ4cDSiiffts9YLtlQYv-C-LQMSYJTmjPO72N-HVGpIcXH2ZUj7wytp8A4/s1600/sc2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I started my Etsy shop on Aug. 1, 2014 after longing for an outlet that was lucrative and freeing. I love working as a graphic designer, however most of the time it is in the parameters of who I am working for (as it should be). Etsy gives me the freedom to make whatever I want and have the opportunity for anyone to enjoy my work! </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I live in the loveliest (and teeniest) little house in Newnan with my husband of almost a year, Matt, our cat, Skeeter and our black lab, Cam. It's a really happy life!<br />
<br />
<i style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium;">Thanks Amanda! You can stalk Amanda on social media via the links below:</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/snowandcompany"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aukyMGSN9nKGBgVPvbx1FV0w4PhEDsggCtoD69sBRD0KPE9ToVmtlm08hrW4wdkCh9mjjPVKv9qRgbZH5rrfBpfCY4ia592JM5gt5eSP_E1biCC_5PxUCukbkDqHrlZ0zQeP_GFScNk/s1600/Social+Media+Icon+Set1.5-05.png" /></a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SnowAndCompany"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRVy7V7O0wUnfNtY1NtmMdSAvABFtX0tYQOyg6G7vu5MQi8EnFeDBK1vQKqTxbkcbetMXee77b9pymUJlTsRm5OD4uwCJZurWK0A7WboqNCWIjPCAZ0Ax9KCxmF2BDfX4Jz4A8UZEmgJ0/s1600/Social+Media+Icon+Set1.13-13.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<center>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f25df0de6/" id="rc-f25df0de6" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script></center>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08691441725309588505noreply@blogger.com0