Procraftination Station

Best Superbowl Cookies - Giants vs. Patriots

2012-02-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

My really good friend, Ashley made these for a superbowl party and they look amazing. She is a pastry chef and just makes the most beautiful and yummy desserts ever (and I know that first hand).

Source: ashley-and-john.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

I told you they are really great looking!!! Now...I am not sure, but we may be going to the same party, in which case I am embarrassed to bring my dessert.

Photo a Day Challenge 2/3–Hands

2012-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

My baby's hands are so precious to me.

Photo a Day Challenge 2/2–Words

2012-02-02T21:57:00.001-08:00

Photo a Day Challenge 2/1–Your view today

2012-02-02T21:56:00.001-08:00

on the train…

Craigslist dresser makeover

2012-02-01T23:40:00.001-08:00

Remember my awesome craigslist find I wrote about here? Well, I was finally able to finish the makeover. I love how it turned out and it has completely transformed our bedroom, providing lots of storage. Here’s the Before.

It was in pretty good shape, but the color made it look dated and tired. Some primer, and a few coats of paint later, I have the dresser of my dreams.

I know there are a lot of things on top of the dresser, but I couldn’t wait to show you until I figured out the best way to use the space. Here are a few more shots.

What do you think?

Hugs,

Iuliana

Photo a day challenge

2012-01-31T21:51:00.000-08:00

Definitelly doing this. If you want to do it, head over to FatMumSlim for more details.

5 signs that you are addicted to Pinterest

2012-01-26T22:37:00.000-08:00

1. Not a day goes by without pinning and if there is a day without it, you acknowledge it in order to convince yourself you are not addicted to Pinterest.

2. Spending 3 hours on Pinterest in one sitting is very easy to justify.

3. You use Pinterest as your primary search engine.

4. You have a board with recipes and use them for your weekly menu.

5. Bookmarking seems so dated to you.

Are you addicted? What other signs of addiction have you noticed?

Valentine's Day Project Fail

2012-01-26T21:25:00.000-08:00

I saw this cute wreath and tutorial at Naptime Crafts (isn't that an awesome name for a crafty blog?).

and another one:

Source: craftaholicsanonymous.net via Iuliana on Pinterest

It seemed really simple and cheap to make, which is my kind of project, so I proceeded to making one.

Here is mine. Big fail. It looked so ridiculous that I really wanted to show you that my

projects ~~often~~ sometimes turn out.

No matter what I did, the wire hanger did not look like a heart. I have found that my artistic abilities are very limited and most of the time look done by a second grader. I am not sure if my hands are growing from a different place as other crafters' hands, or it really isn't that simple to shape a wire hanger into a heart. To feel better, I will probably just use the latter justification. Plus, I didn't have burlap and used a strip of canvas, which was also torture to thread unto the wire I didn't bother to add more fabric, because it was gonna be ridiculous anyway.

Oh booo....

Craigslist Dresser find

2012-01-19T22:33:00.000-08:00

I finally found the perfect dresser to redo. I saw it on facebook, emailed the owner, and a few hours later I found myself looking for someone with a truck. Luckily we did find someone, and my husband went to get it. We live in an apartment complex with no garage, and seeing as it is the middle of winter, I could not refinish it outside. My good friend Lindsay M. offered her garage for this project, so my hubby took it directly to her house. Then we had a storm, so I didn’t go to her house for a week.

When I saw it in real life, I fell in love even more. But wait…there’s more. I opened one of the drawers and guess what?! It was on wheels!!! I had already given up on looking for one with drawers on wheels, so I wasn’t even thinking this may have them. Want to see it?

Best part? It was only $30. It is all real wood, it is in good condition and it is exactly what I wanted in the bedroom. Stay tuned for the makeover!

Best interiors { Warning - picture overload}

2012-01-18T21:30:00.000-08:00

Check out these awesome interiors that I had the opportunity to photograph.

Such a happy country/rustic breakfast nook!

Do you have a vanity like this?

Love the view, the walls, the buffets, the chandelier

This staircase is amazing.

Nothing can beat a library like this

Fell in love with this space.

Bird cage love...

Yes, I went to all these spaces. It was pretty amazing. You probably already noticed that these pictures were taken through a window...a small one. These rooms were miniature rooms at the Art Institute of Chicago. It's pretty incredible to see all those details and go back in time through my currently most favorite medium -interior design.

This picture has a lot of glare, but I had to post it because of the chair, designed in 1870. Really...Missoni looking chevron print back then? Love it!!!

Just a few more comentless rooms.

Is that a scarf, or maybe a sweater...

Love the Art Institute!

Hugs,

Reminder of gratitude

2012-01-15T21:28:00.000-08:00

It's always good to be reminded to be grateful. For me expressing gratitude is a way to gain more insight about my life, it is an exercise of faith, and just an awesome way to feel happy.

Source: etsy.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Hugs,

One frustrated mama...

2012-01-05T19:27:00.000-08:00

This post has nothing and everything to do with crafting and decorating. My husband is graduating in one month and has been looking for jobs. We have wanted to move to CO for awhile now and there may be a job for him there, and we may need to move asap.

Source: rachelswandesign.tumblr.com via Wendy on Pinterest

My frustration lies with the unknown. I ~~am dying to~~ want to work on projects and share them with you, but is it worth it if we may be moving soon? For example: I have a dresser I want to refinish, but if we're moving it might get all banged up during the move? Or what if we can't take it with us to begin with, because there will be no space for it. We live in a small apartment and even with the move and new job (really praying that it will happen. It sucks to have NO income), I don't see us upgrading to something bigger anytime soon. It's not like we'd be moving to Texas where you can rent an apartment (or even a house!!! A girl can dream.) for the same price we are here in Chicago, but much nicer and bigger.

So, what should I do? Should I start packing? Should I ~~make more holes in the walls~~ hang that shelf, I was planning to hang above my desk? Should I reorganize my pantry/linen closet?

Please advise...

2011 Summary

2012-01-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

I started this craft blog in May of this year, and it has proved to be a sun adventure. I never thought that anyone let alone many of you would like my little projects, but you did. And it motivated me to do more and try new things.

But here is a look back at my top 5 posts of 2011.

1. Thrift Store Kitchen Hutch redo - tutorial

2. Hanging Tissue Paper Flower Lanterns

3. Stuffed Peppers recipe

4. Chevron Fabric Rug

5.Lil' pumpkins

6.Mini Pods Wreath

7.Peppermint Wreath - for $1!

Thank you to all my readers and I do hope to bring you more projects and ideas in this new year!

Happy 2012!

1 Month, $0 Budget challenge

2012-01-01T13:51:00.000-08:00

I have been looking for new ways to set goals and actually accomplish them. I am one of those cheesy people, that likes to make resolutions, and strongly believes a new year is a new page, and new chance for change. My husband believes you can/should make changes now, as opposed to having the 'I'll start on Monday' mentality.

One of the bloggers I follow, Full of Great Ideas, extended the 1 month, 0$ challenge for January 12. I took an the challenge and today is the first day.

The idea is that you basically spend $0 on non-essentials. That means, no crafting supplies, no groupons, no eating out, no buying food until everything is gone. Saving money, and using what we have is a great way to start the year in a financially responsible manner. Stephanie at Full of Great Ideas explains it better. Head over to her blog and see if this is something you would like to do.

I am really excited to give this challenge a try and be conscious about my spending choices, especially since we are kinda poor. Ok, I admit it, we're poor. I wasn't going to post anything personal on this blog, but I guess it's hard to detach myself from this blog. This will be an awesome opportunity to re-evaluate my habits, organize my life, use what I have, be resourceful, creative and most of all have control over my money, as opposed to the other way around.

Are you thinking of doing it? Let's try together!

Hugs,

5 clever ways to store your Christmas decorations {Free and Green}

2011-12-30T22:29:00.000-08:00

Do you take down your Christmas decor as soon as the clock hits 12 on New Year's Eve or do you wait? I am one of those people that like to keep my decorations longer. In any case, taking them down can get messy and tedious, tempting me us to just throw things in a bag and forget about it all. However, if you've had the privilege to be the one to detangle string lights, or clean up broken ornaments, you will want to read this post. I have put together a small list of 5 really easy and green ways to organize and store your holiday decor. I've also included non diy ideas that Pinterest helped me find.

1. ORNAMENTS

Use cartons for storing small, delicate pieces. Place tissue
paper saved from gifts to cushion them.

Source: re-nest.com via Tiel on Pinterest

You can also place them in paper/plastic cups. Cover one layer of cups with cardboard and make another layer. You can even hot the bottom of the cups to the cardboard for more stability. I find this method a bit unrealistic for my limited storage space.

Source: marthastewart.com via THP on Pinterest

Oh and make sure you do it all in slow-mo, as in this picture. It works much better:)

You can always buy an inexpensive ornament bin or bag.
I haven't tried one, but I imagine it is quite useful.

Source: lillianvernon.com via Kaye on Pinterest

2. STRINGS OF LIGHTS

Wrap around a piece of cardboard. I love this idea,

because my least favorite part of holiday decorating is

untangling the lights. Use the same method for your garlands.

Another tip to avoid knots and snarls is to wrap the strings around old coffee/formula tin cans. Just cut a slit in the plastic lid, and put the receptacle end of the light cord through it. Wrap the string around the can, and store extra bulbs and extension cords inside.

Source: realsimple.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

You can also buy Christmas Lights Storage bags or boxes.

I've seen inexpensive ones on Ebay or Amazon. I pinned
these because they include reels you can just wrap your lights around.

Source: renilim.hubpages.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

3. WREATHS

I usually put wreaths in a big shopping bag and just tie the handles.

The ones from Aldi are perfect, but you can also

use just regular trash bags.

I've seen these boxes circulating blogland and pinterest.

Source: realsimple.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

4. CHRISTMAS TREE

If you have a fake tree, just repack in its original box. It's free and works for a few years. Then, duct tape will help the box survive for a few more Christmases.

When the box cannot be revived, do yourself a favor and buy a christmas tree storage box. We bought a very inexpensive one last year from Aldi, and have wondered why I didn't do it before. Wait...I know...it was FREE to store in its own box. I couldn't find the one we got, but below is just one idea.

Source: realsimple.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

As for a real tree - most cities/towns have Christmas tree recycling. If yours doesn't, I am not sure what you could do. I guess you could chop it down and put it with your yard waste garbage.

5. LABEL AL YOUR BOXES CLEARLY

Don't use sticky notes. You will not find your boxes the following year without some serious frustration and some sunday school words...not that I have done this before.

Happy organizing and Happy New Year!

Post Christmas Cleaning

2011-12-26T22:43:00.000-08:00

Source: peacefuldivas.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Zip Lock Power - I use them for everything when it comes to packing up my Christmas decorations. I keep all my ornaments, and all other home decor pieces in ziplock bags. It helps tremendously when I start decorating again, because it is all neatly packed. Love it.

Recycle and Reuse. I know that sometimes it is easier to just throw things the way they are straight to the trash, but it really is worth to recycle your boxes and paper. Also, I am all about reusing, so if you have boxes, wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons that are still in good shape, you can keep them and reuse them next year. Fold and store things neatly.

Christmas Cards - I usually put all the Christmas cards in a big Ziploc bag and display them the following Christmas. When I get a new one from a specific family, I replace the old one. I feel bad throwing them away. I've heard people scanning them and keeping them that way. I haven't tried that and I am not sure I will find the ~~patience to deal with my ridiculously stupid scanner~~ time to do it in the future.

Donate - in the spirit of holiday giving and of having space in your closet, donate some old clothes for every new piece of clothing you got as a gift. Awesome way to suppress any hoarding tendencies, of which I know nothing about, and a great way to help good causes by donating to goodwill or any other thrift store in your area.

Replace your old media - if you got cds, dvds or books you can use websites, such as paperbackswap.com, cdswap.com and dvdswap.com, make more space by getting rid of your old ones and getting some more new ones

Happy New Year!

{Real spirit of Christmas giving} Christmas morning story

2011-12-20T21:57:00.000-08:00

He woke suddenly and completely. It was four o'clock, the hour at which his father had always called him to get up and help with the milking. Strange how the habits of his youth clung to him still! Fifty years ago, and his father had been dead for thirty years, and yet he waked at four o'clock in the morning. He had trained himself to turn over and go to sleep, but this morning it
was Christmas, he did not try to sleep.

Why did he feel so awake tonight? He slipped back in time, as he did so easily nowadays. He was fifteen years old and still on his father's farm. He loved his father. He had not known it until one day a few days before Christmas, when he had overheard what his father was saying to his mother.

"Mary, I hate to call Rob in the mornings. He's growing so fast and he needs his sleep. If you could see how he sleeps when I go in to wake him up! I wish I could manage alone."

"Well, you can't Adam." His mother's voice as brisk, "Besides, he isn't a child anymore. It's time he took his turn."

"Yes," his father said slowly. "But I sure do hate to wake him."

When he heard these words, something in him spoke: his father loved him! He had never thought of that before, taking for granted the tie of their blood. Neither his father nor his mother talked about loving their children--they had no time for such things. There was always so much to do on the farm.

Now that he knew his father loved him, there would be no loitering in the mornings and having to be called again. He got up after that, stumbling blindly in his sleep, and pulled on his clothes, his eyes shut, but he got up.

And then on the night before Christmas, that year when he was fifteen, he lay for a few minutes thinking about the next day. They were poor, and most of the excitement was in the turkey they had raised themselves and mince pies his mother made. His sisters sewed presents and his mother and father always bought something he needed, not only a warm jacket, maybe, but
something more, such as a book. And he saved and bought them each something, too.

He wished, that Christmas when he was fifteen, he had a better present for his father. As usual he had gone to the ten-cent store and bought a tie. It had seemed nice enough until he lay thinking the night before Christmas. He looked out of his attic window, the stars were bright.

"Dad," he had once asked when he was a little boy, "What is a stable?"

"It's just a barn," his father had replied, "like ours."

Then Jesus had been born in a barn, and to a barn the shepherds had come...

The thought struck him like a silver dagger. Why should he not give his father a special gift too, out there in the barn? He could get up early, earlier than four o'clock, and he could creep into the barn and get all the milking done. He'd do it alone, milk and clean up, and then when his fatherwent in to start the milking he'd see it all done. And he would know who had done it. He
laughed to himself as he gazed at the stars. It was what he would do, and he musn't sleep too sound.

He must have waked twenty times, scratching a match each time to look at his old watch-midnight, and half past one, and then two o'clock.

At a quarter to three he got up and put on his clothes. He crept downstairs, careful of the creaky boards, and let himself out. The cows looked at him, sleepy and surprised. It was early for them too.

He had never milked all alone before, but it seemed almost easy. He kept thinking about his father's surprise. His father would come in and get him, saying that he would get things started while Rob was getting dressed. He'd go to the barn, open the door, and then he'd go get the two big empty milk cans. But they wouldn't be waiting or empty, they'd be standing in the milk-house,
filled.

"What the--," he could hear his father exclaiming.

He smiled and milked steadily, two strong streams rushing into the pail, frothing and fragrant.

The task went more easily than he had ever known it to go before. Milking for once was not a chore. It was something else, a gift to his father who loved him. He finished, the two milk cans were full, and he covered them and closed the milk-house door carefully, making sure of the latch.

Back in his room he had only a minute to pull off his clothes in the darkness and jump into bed, for he heard his father up. He put the covers over his head to silence his quick breathing. The door opened.

"Rob!" His father called. "We have to get up, son, even if it is Christmas."

"Aw-right," he said sleepily.

The door closed and he lay still, laughing to himself. In just a few minutes his father would know. His dancing heart was ready to jump from his body.

The minutes were endless--ten, fifteen, he did not know how many--and he heard his father's footsteps again. The door opened and he lay still.

"Rob!"

"Yes, Dad--"

His father was laughing, a queer sobbing sort of laugh.

"Thought you'd fool me, did you?" His father was standing by his bed, feeling for him, pulling away the cover.

"It's for Christmas, Dad!"

He found his father and clutched him in a great hug. He felt his father's arms go around him. It was dark and they could not see each other's faces.

"Son, I thank you. Nobody ever did a nicer thing--"

"Oh, Dad, I want you to know--I do want to be good!" The words broke from him of their own will. He did not know what to say. His heart was bursting with love.

He got up and pulled on his clothes again and they went down to the Christmas tree. Oh what a Christmas, and how his heart had nearly burst again with shyness and pride as his father told his mother and made the younger children listen about how he, Rob, had got up all by himself.

"The best Christmas gift I ever had, and I'll remember it, son every year on Christmas morning, so long as I live."

They had both remembered it, and now that his father was dead, he remembered it alone: that blessed Christmas dawn when, alone with the cows in the barn, he had made his first gift of true love.

This Christmas he wanted to write a card to his wife and tell her how much he loved her, it had been a long time since he had really told her, although he loved her in a very special way, much more than he ever had when they were young. He had been fortunate that she had loved him. Ah, that was the true joy of life, the ability to love. Love was still alive in him, it still was.

It occurred to him suddenly that it was alive because long ago it had been born in him when he knew his father loved him. That was it: Love alone could awaken love. And he could give the gift again and again. This morning, this blessed Christmas morning, he would give it to his beloved wife. He I could write it down in a letter for her to read and keep forever. He went to his desk and began his love letter to his wife: My dearest love...

by Pearl S. Buck

My Holiday Decor - handmade and free

2011-12-20T21:43:00.000-08:00

We live in a small apartment, so even just having a Christmas tree sometimes seems like a lot for out small living room. That's why going light on decor seemed like a good and free idea. Most things I made myself and just enjoyed having reminders for the reason we celebrate Christmas.

No mantle? No problem? I just hung a horizontal frame above the TV, attached a piece of ribbon and displayed my card. I used a push pin for the peppermint wreath and double sided tape for the letters.

I framed my polka dotted wrapping paper and stuck a printable in the middle.

Since I was on the peppermint ball, I decided to make a peppermint ball and then just placed

it on a large candle holder.

Here's my hutch in the kitchen all dolled up for the holidays

This hutch is not only home to a lot of kitchen stuff, but also to my sewing machine. Tis the life in a small apartment with no storage space. I am grateful for what we have and most of all for birth of Jesus Christ and the light it brings into our lives.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,

{Giveaway Winner} - Multistrand Vintage Lace Flower Necklace

2011-12-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

Hello my dear followers,

So remember how I hosted this giveaway? Thank you to everyone that entered. I was hoping for more entries, hence the delayed announcement of the winner. Now I know you guys read my blog and I feel like I know who I am posting for, which is a HUGE help for me. But enough with that. So, remember what you guys entered to win?

The winner was chosen using Random.org

Congratulations to Ashley, who said:

I will email you for details!

For the rest, I am offering you guys a 25% off coupon code for anything in my shop:

PROCRAFTINATION25

Hope you all have an amazing week and holidays,

{Round-up} - Freaking out + free printables

2011-12-13T18:34:00.001-08:00

Have you finished wrapping all the presents yet? I've wrapped a few, and still waiting on some to arrive in the mail. I am bordering on being completely freaked out they won't arrive in time . Hey, at least I have awesome printables made by awesome people around the blogosphere. Oh...and the good part....they're all free!

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Source: balancinghome.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Source: mommybydaycrafterbynight.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

whimsical tags via eat drink chic

peace on earth tags (more tags available) via the inspired room :: created by kylee noelle

paper bow via simply modern mom :: created by ez from creature comforts

neon tags via hey look :: as seen on cake

naughty or nice gift tags via brooklyn limestone

joy and bow tags via heysusy (scroll down for the download links)

12 winter bird tags via rebecca's misc. :: as seen on making it lovely

gift bag greetings via 30 handmade days :: as seen on be different, act normal

no peeking tags via simply modern mom :: created by kristen from paper crave

chevron wine tag via house of fifty (page 86) :: created by pamela sherry of pixelimpress

aqua and red gift tags via domestifluff

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

I-Spy "junk tree"

2011-12-11T18:55:00.001-08:00

Did you know you can use the junk from your junk drawer to make a beautiful holiday decor piece? No?

Check out this I-Spy "junk tree" made by Lindsay @ DIARY OF A CRAFTY LADY

Source: craftyladylindsay.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Talk about recycling!

500 Fans on Facebook {GIVEAWAY}

2011-12-09T18:43:00.001-08:00

I am so excited that I have 500 fans on my facebook page. I was trying to figure out why I was excited about that. I mean...I am not a collector of fans, I am not a celebrity (ok..I kind of am...here on my blog)...so why? Probably because it makes me feel like others out there appreciate my work, which is an awesome thing in my book. Thank you all for your support and for buying handmade!

So, to thank all my facebook fans and blog followers, I have a GIVEAWAY for you guys. This perfect is perfect to spruce up any outfit, especially now for the holidays. Give it as a Christmas or keep for yourself.

To enter, you must follow this blog and leave a comment to this post.

Additional entries:

- Follow me on Twitter and leave a comment here. (one entry)
- Follow me on Pinterest and leave a comment here. (one entry)
- If you are not a fan on facebook, Like me on my page and leave a comment here. (one entry)

Giveaway ends on Monday, December 11th*. 2011 at 11:59 p.m. CST. The winner will be chosen using Random.org and will be announced on Tuesday the 12th of December. Guaranteed shipping before Christmas!

* I am extending the giveaway till the end of the week because of very few entries. If you win, you will still get the necklace before Christmas.

Blog Makeover

2011-12-08T20:10:00.001-08:00

You may have noticed that my blog looks different. I finally got a blog custom design and I am so happy with it. Seriously, this blog designer is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

Kim is one talented lady. I highly recommend Seven Thirty Three for your blog design needs.
What do you think? Like my new design?
Hugs,

Christmas Countdown blocks

2011-12-03T18:34:00.001-08:00

The other day we had a craft night at the church and we made these awesome Christmas countdown blocks. I know the girl in charge bought the blocks and the vinyl from somewhere, but I don't remember where from and so I am sorry I am not giving proper credit here.

What you'll need:

2 wood cubes measuring 3.5 inches
1 wood block measuring 7.5 inches long, 3.5 inches deep and 1 inch tall (like I said...I am not sure where my friend bought these from, but if you have the right wood cutting tools, you can make your own blocks )
Mod Podge
Scrapbook paper
Sponge brush
Paint
Vinyl letters that read "Countdown" (you can also just print some out and cut the letters and numbers with an exacto knife)
Vinyl numbers - 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Vinyl Numbers - 0, 1, 2, 6, 7, 8

1. The blocks were sanded and then the edges painted. You can paint the whole surface of the blocks, but we just did the edges. Let the paint dry before proceeding to the next step.

2. Cut out scrap-book paper just a little bit smaller then the surface you want to cover. So, for the cubes just cut out 12 pieces of Christmas scrapbook paper measuring 3 inches. Mod Podge them unto your surfaces.

3. Mod Podge dries relatively fast to the touch. Apply the vinyl (or just mod podge some that you print out yourself) letters and numbers.

4. Apply a generous layer of Mod Podge on top. The more, the shinier.

and Voila!

Hugs,

Magnetic Advent Calendar

2011-11-26T20:17:00.001-08:00

Now that Christmas Preparation are in full force, we'll soon start the countdown and what better way to do it, than with a cute advent calendar.

Twig & Thistle made this gorgeous calendar. It's cute, it's useful, and it's MAGNETIC.makes it easy to make this fabulous advent calendar!

Magnetic Advent Calendar Tutorial and Template

Isn't this oh so cute?

Hugs,

Ikea Lamp Shade Hack

2011-11-25T21:26:00.001-08:00

I had these lamps in my bedroom with really dated lampshades, and quite gross if you looked up close. I did like the lamp posts - they have a very distressed french country look that I wanted to incorporate lighly in my bedroom. I didn't want to buy new lamps, but even just the lamp shades were just too expensive to justify an unimportant want like that. So, I decided to buy the inexpensive lamp shades from IKEA. Little did I know, IKEA lampshades don't work with non-IKEA lamps.

My husband mentioned using washers (and no...I didn't really know what those were until I went to Home Depot and asked). I just two for each lamp and they are like a quarter each.

Make sure that the opening is larger than the lamp's bold, and that the diameter of the washer is larger then the lampshade opening.

Check out the tutorial on how to use an IKEA lamp shade on an NON-IKEA lamp:

Here's the BEFORE (it looks better in the picture than in real life)

1. Remove the lamp shade, by unscrewing the top nob.

2. Place the washer and lamp shade on top of your lamp

3. Add your second washer and screw your lamp's original nob back on.

and here's the AFTER

I am planning to paint the base or maybe the lampshade, once I decide on my new color scheme.

Happy Ikea Hacking,

Feature by LollyJane

2011-11-25T21:16:00.001-08:00

Have you guys had a chance to read this awesome blog?

Well, it just so happens that I was featured there! Go check it out!

Hugs,

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL + More new products

2011-11-25T10:11:00.001-08:00

Use Coupon Code BLACKCYBER for 30% off your entire purchase from You-Lee-Ana Boutique Nov 25-Nov 28!! Plus free first class shipping within the US!!

and many more here.

Hugs,

Milk glass collection

2011-11-22T16:39:00.001-08:00

Do you like to collect stuff?  Or, do you have a special way to display your collections? My beloved friend, Pinterest that is, found this photo from Gus and Lula. I absolutely adore this simple, yet beautiful display.  Even though there are lots of things on the shelves. it doesn't look cluttered at all, because everything's grey and white.

Source: gusandlula.com via Annette on Pinterest

Me want to go thrifting right now!

Hugs,

Feature

2011-11-20T21:19:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to let you know that I was featured on one of my favorite blogs:

She featured my peppermint wreath here. I am so excited, I can hardly contain myself.

You can find the tutorial right here.

Hugs,

Peppermint Wreath - for $1!!!!

2011-11-18T13:29:00.001-08:00

This is a project I have wanted to do since september (yes, I think of Christmas even in September) and could not wait to start on Christmas projects. Here's my $1 peppermint candy wreath...sAweet!

I started out by piling up everything I thought would work for this wreath. The only thing I bought was the bag of star light mints from the Dollar Store.

I wrapped my wreath with some wide ribbon, to make it a little more even. But if you have a foam form, that would probably work even better. I was going for a cheap project and so I used what I had. Important tip: make sure you have enough ribbon BEFORE you glue your ribbon. As you can see I didn't. I decided to go ahead and make the wreath with only half of it covered with ribbon.

Then, I remembered I had the cutest washi tape ever, and just wrapped the rest of the wreath with that. It would've been nice to have it all covered with the tape. Oh well. Cheap, impatient and really interested in the movie I was watching with my hubs while doing this project.

I just glued the candies in no particular pattern. Put enough glue to cover the whole back of the candy, but not too much, because it will ooze out and not look pretty. I would press it down with my finger for a few seconds, to ensure proper adhesion.

When I finished gluing the peppermints, I went back and added a few red cake decorating beans in the spots where it looked kind of ~~lonely~~ empty.

Add some ribbon to attach it, make a cute bow and you're done! Super cute holiday wreath for $1.

Just a little disclaimer and tip: this project can get boring, so watch a movie while doing this. However, be careful not to burn your finger with your ~~hot lava~~ glue gun, like I did here.

Hugs,

Linking up to these awesome parties!

As well as here
and here.

New addition

2011-11-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

I love sharing tutorials with you, and especially finding so much inspiration in the blogosphere and making something original. I am only at the beginning of this creative blogging journey, and really wish to connect with you guys and be friends. I appreciate all your support so far.

I also wanted to take a minute and share something else that I spend my time on - my etsy shop. I knit and crochet...like...a lot. Here are some new fall/winter items I added in my shop yesterday. I am so excited about my newest model. She is gorgeous and no matter what I put on her...it's like it was made for her.

Charcoal Grey Crochet Beanie/Cloche

Spiral Flower Headband/Earwarmer in Taupe

Crochet Beanie in very light pink

These make a perfect holiday gift! If you want to visit my shop and check out some more handmade warm goodness, I wouldn't mind at all. Share this with your friends or put it on your holiday gift wishlist. I am offering a 25% off coupon for you guys:

PROCRAFTINATION25

I do hope you'll visit my shop and will not stop following my blog because

I advertised my shop for a little bit.

Hugs,

Mini Pods Wreath

2011-11-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a wreath I started making back in September, but after a very unhappy mishap with my glue gun AND a two month separation, I just finished in time for my fall/thanksgiving decor.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

1. Wreath form (I used a twine one that I already had)

2. A pack of mini pods (I found mine at Michaels)

3. Glue Gun

4. Ribbon

It's a relatively easy project. It is a little boring though. Just go around and glue your little pods to the wreath form, pressing tightly. TIP: if you're watching TV or a movie while doing this project, make sure you look at what you're doing when using a hot like lava glue gun. Just sayin'.

Add some ribbon and attach wherever your heart desires.

Hugs,

Linking to these awesome parties.

Yellow goodness

2011-10-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

You may have gathered that I am a bit obsessed with yellow and blue/turquoise decor. One of my favorite blogs posted about a makeover that I am in love....AND it was thrifted and cheap - right up my alley.

Yellow Iron Bed @ Everyday Lovely

Sooo pretty,

Hugs,

Thrift Store Kitchen Hutch redo - tutorial

2011-10-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

I live in a small apartment with a pretty small kitchen, and barely any storage space. I've tried so many organizational ideas before, but having two cabinets and two drawers, plus the area under the sink and on top of the fridge...just wasn't enough. I bought this piece at a thrift store for $30. It was not made of wood, just the cheap laminate kind, but I could see its potential (kind of...I changed my mind a few times). It was the perfect size for my kitchen and even though it adds only one set of cabinets, it is already making a HUGE difference for my kitchen storage. Plus it is super pretty. Every time I walk by it, it makes me so happy.

I've had many of you ask for the tutorial on the kitchen hutch redo. So here it is!

French Country Kitchen Hutch

STEP BY STEP

1. I removed all the hardware, so I can take out all the doors, as well as the drawer.

A good tip is to put the hardware from each piece in separate baggies. So all the hardware from one of the door goes in one baggie, etc. This is so you don't forget where they go, which I have never done in the past *wink*, and never got super frustrated figuring out where each one fitted.

This is helpful even when you replace the hardware, as you can take the old ones to the store to get the sizes right for the new ones. I kept the original hardware, because I was going for a makeover with minimal expenses. Plus, the hardware was actually pretty cute and did not look dated.

2. Now, you probably think, I need to start sanding. Nope. I was also going for minimal work, especially since I was doing the project in my in-laws' garage and did not want to take it over forever. Plus, who likes sanding anyway? Who needs sanding anyway?

I did have to remove some sticker/contact paper that they used for the glass door trims. Even though the faux wood looked pretty lame, I was impressed by how good of a job they did matching the sticker wood paper to the rest of the fake wood.

3. On the top part of the hutch, there were these sticks that made slots for plates, which I did not really want. They came out really easily and I just filled the holes with wood filling.

4. I sanded down the places where I filled the holes with wood filler to create a smooth surface.

I then started priming. I used Glidden Primer (the Home Depot guy told me this would stick to anything and that I didn't need priming, which was what I was looking for).

I used a brush for the edges and hard to reach places, and a roller for the rest.

I laid all the doors and shelves on the floor, taped the glass where necessary, and primed those too.

4. I got pretty good coverage and adherence, so I only went for one coat of primer. After it dried for a couple of hours, I put on the first layer of paint. Here are my beauties after the first coat.

I used Behr Premium Paint in Cottage white. I absolutely love this paint/color. It has a subtle creamy shade, soft, but still fresh.. If you don’t want a stark cold white, that looks bluish in certain light, but in the same time not a beige cream color either, I highly recommend this one.

I also painted the faux panel back with a Martha Stewert tester paint, but don't have pictures of this step.

5. After the first coat dried, I painted the second one. I let everything dry for the night.

6. I used a coarse sanding sheet and distressed the edges and other places I thought would look nice.

7. I didn't want a glossy look, so the paint was actually flat. But, to protect the finish, I applied a poly finish.

After it dried, I sanded it according to the product instructions. Wiped it down and applied a second coat.

All done! After 24 hours we put all the pieces together and voila!

Hugs,

My dream bedroom

2011-10-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

Here are just some great images of my dream bedroom.

Source: None via Iuliana on Pinterest

Hugs,

Upholster your own wing back chair

2011-10-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this is a DIY project? Brooke at All Things Thrifty turned an old wing back chair into this gorgeous piece of furniture! AND she has a tutorial for us.

Upholstery Tutorial

Guess who's kicking herself for selling two wing back chairs at a garage sale for $5?

Hugs,

How to make your own Chevron Rug using fabric

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

I love pretty fabric. Even better....I like pretty fabric for a good price! Weird, huh?! Fabric.com is often my go to site that meets both my criteria. This next project is no exception.

We've all seen those absolutely gorgeous zig zag rugs (or if you want to sound cool you can call it chevron), especially the famous and very trendy elm rug, that I am personally in love with. But NOT loving the price though. So naturally I wanted to make one. J/k. I would never naturally want to make a rug, but going against my nature and the sane advice of my husband, I still decided to make one. I've found awesome tutorials about painting one here and here, but after my failed attempt to paint some fat stripes on my bedroom curtains, I decided against this option.

And then it hit me! I love fabric! I know where to get cheap and pretty fabric.I should make a fabric rug. Ok...it didn't really hit me first. I saw it on a blog, but now I can't remember where.

Here's my inspiration:

(West Elm)

(West Elm rug, from Four Walls and a Roof)

(Madeline Weinrib rug in Nicole Balch's home, from Making it Lovely)

(Domino)

And here's mine!!!! Not bad, heh?

I don't have pictures of the process, but I will write a few instructions and it shouldn't be very hard to follow them. All in all, it wasn't very hard to make.

What you'll need:

- 2 yards of fabric. I got mine here

- One 6 x 9 dropcloth I got from Home Depot

-5 x 8 Rug Gripper

-Aleene's Tacky Spray Glue

Step 1: Iron your fabric and drop cloth.

Step 2: Start layering all your pieces, preferably without any toys flying around and landing on your project, because that never happened to me before:)

Step 3: Spray the glue unto your dropcloth and then carefully place the fabric on top, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles.

Step 4: Pin all your pieces together. Fold your fabric over to the back and sew all the pieces together.

Step 5: Cut any excess fabric

Step 6: is actually literally a step....because you need to step back an enjoy your new rug!!!!

With love, from Lindsay

Linking to these awesome parties.

Hugs,

Book page wreath

2011-10-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

Here's another awesome project made by my awesome friend and blog contributor, Lindsay. Behold, a book page wreath.

and here's a close-up...

Hopefully I can make a tutorial with pictures. But for now, just a few instructions and tips:

1. Rip pages from a book you will not use for reading or that is not a precious work of art (this one is a dated dictionary)

2. Start folding them horizontally in an accordion-like manner

3. Take a wreath form and attach ribbon for hanging

4. Go around the wreath and hot glue the folded pieces of paper to the wreath. When you finish one layer, proceed with a new circle.

Enjoy!

Hugs and happy fall,

Grilled Cheese Goodness

2011-10-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

Beware: this post contains an abundance of drool-inducing cheesy goodness that may cause serious appetite gain and really loud tummy grumbling.

The Buffalo Bill

Source: grilledcheeseacademy.com via Sarah on Pinterest

The Birchwood

Source: grilledcheeseacademy.com via Kelli on Pinterest

Grilled Cheese Roast Beef Sandwich

Source: momswhothink.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Grilled Vegetable and Goat Cheese

Source: ezrapoundcake.com via Clarence on Pinterest

Mozzarella Grilled Cheese

Source: anediblesymphony.blogspot.com via Abbie on Pinterest

The Biloxi

Source: grilledcheeseacademy.com via Noah on Pinterest

Grown-Up Grilled Cheese

Source: marthastewart.com via Jenny on Pinterest

What is your favorite grilled cheese sandwich varition?

Hanging Tissue Paper Flower Lanterns

2011-10-03T22:03:00.000-07:00

This project is fun to do and very affordable. It is however time-consuming and a lot of glue gun swearing is involved (ok...I don't swear, but I sure wanted to).

You can use it for room decor or for special parties and events.

Introducing...

Hanging Tissue Paper Flower Lanterns

I've seen lost of cute ideas in the blogosphere that are similar, especially for wedding decor. This project does not use Styrofoam balls, but just plain old regular paper lanterns. Those styrofoam balls can get very pricey and if you want to more than one, it can easily add up to something that costs way too much for a diy endeavor on a budget.

Because I have no pictures of the process, I this awesome tutorial over at The House of Smiths that used the styrofoam balls. Shelley is seriously talented and I follow her blog with a little too much passion I'd say. Use the same steps, but replace the balls with paper lanterns.

For this project you will need:

Paper Lanterns

Paper streamers

Hot glue sticks and the aforementioned glue gun

a roll of tape

and a measuring stick

Go to the rest of the tutorial here.

And Voila! You have some super cute inexpensive Hanging Flower Lanterns.

These are hanging in my little girl's room now.

Happy crafting, Lindsay

Thanks Linds for this super cute project.

Linking to these awesome parties

and to http://todayscreativeblog.net/

Hugs,

10 Bird Cage Decorating Ideas

2011-10-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

I have a friend who has the most awesome antique (or antique looking), rustic and vintage decorations in her home....like lots of them. What's really cool, is that none of it looks dated and I am in love. One of these cool decor pieces are birdcages. I am still looking to find one at a flea market/antique store/ thrift store/garage sale. Yes...I attend these with the utmost regularity. Until that glorious moment arrives into my life, I am just drooling over some Piterest finds, that I want to share with you.

Beautifully White

Source: missmustardseed.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Aqua bird cage wall display

Source: southernhospitalityblog.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

A bird cage used for organizing stationary…Brilliant

Source: thecottagechick.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Turquoise bird cage

Source: google.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Bird cage aquarium

Source: casasugar.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

You could put anything in there. So pretty.

Source: craftster.org via Iuliana on Pinterest

Lots of people use them to make chandeliers

Source: grahamandgreen.co.uk via Iuliana on Pinterest

Bird cage weddings

Source: a1weddinginvitations.net via Iuliana on Pinterest

Source: weddings.theknot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

That owl seems so happy the bird cage is only for decorating

Source: lessthanperfectlifeofbliss.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

And if you feel like one is not enough, you can always go with...5.

I see these as perfect ways to decorate the top of the kitchen cabinets.

Source: google.ca via Iuliana on Pinterest

My current home decorating style (at least in my dreams) is antique reinvented,
and this sure fits that category.

What do you think of bird cages? Do you hate them? Do you love them?

What projects have you done using birdcages?

Hugs,

How to make a chalkboard using an old frame

2011-09-25T22:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share my newest project with you. Last weekend I had a garage sale, to get rid of junk that we've accumulated in the last couple of years. My neighbors' adorable kids had a little lemonade and cookies stand, and a little more fun. It was a beautiful day. I figured I'd tackle more than one project, so I brought out a few of my projects that involved painting. One of the things I wanted to make was a chalkboard.
You've seen all the awesome ideas for chalk board paint projects in my previous post and I am excited to show you what I've done.

I bought some nice big frames at a garage sale (yes...I went garage sale-ing while having a garage sale) for $2 each. SCORE

...and here's what I did:

From this

to this

Sorry about the elementary school looking handwriting - this was the first thing I wrote

on the brand new chalk board and I was nervous. I painted the frame with Aegean Blue Interior Paint by Martha Stewart Living. I got this 8 oz. Paint Tester from Home Depot and

used it also on my kitchen hutch bead board back.

I made a quick mini banner using some fall scrapbook paper I had, and just attached it lightly to the back of the frame with some push pins.

Want to try it too? I used this awesome tutorial by Cindy from The Creativity Exchange.

I was really excited to learn that I can paint glass with chalk board paint.

Old ugly frames...here I come! Ok...more like...pillow here I come. Going to bed.

What do you think?

Hugs,

20 Chalk Board Paint Projects

2011-09-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

There are so many cool ways to use chalk board paint. Over the weekend I gave in and made my own project and it looks awesome. While I am working on pictures and a tutorial, enjoy this list of ideas I've put together using my beloved Pinterest.

Chalk board wall decal!

Source: etsy.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board coffee table

Source: myidealhome.tumblr.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board paint on the inside of drawers for labeling

Source: designsponge.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Food labels

Source: momtastic.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board contact paper. Oh the possibilities!

Source: amazon.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board in a white kitchen. I'm in heaven.

Source: abowlfulloflemons.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Cute magnetic chalk board with vintage frame.

Source: etsy.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Fun chalk board place mats

Source: bafriend.bigcartel.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk Painted Jar Lids. Genius!

Source: ohhellofriendblog.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Cork board, chalk board, frame & magnetic board!

Source: google.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Perfect for the Halloween!

Source: theidearoom.net via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board window calendar

Source: None via Iuliana on Pinterest

Cabinet door chalk board

Source: tatteredandinked.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk board details

Source: catchmyparty.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Old window, chalk board, jars, flowers and pictures ALL in ONE!

Source: None via Iuliana on Pinterest

Chalk Board Fridge

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Kitchen Chalk Board

Source: houzz.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

Love this banner!

Source: mmscrapshoppe.blogspot.com via Iuliana on Pinterest

I have a bunch more ideas in my Pinterest board here.

Hugs,

Featured...

2011-09-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited right now!!! I got featured on my favorite blog ever: Tatertots and Jello.

Jen, the author of the blog, created a post all the cool pumpkin ideas put there and included my cute little crochet pumpkins. Isn't that so cool?

Did I mention I am super excited?!

Hugs,

Mini Crochet Pumpkins

2011-09-14T17:10:00.000-07:00

I love fall with its gorgeous weather and colors. I made these cute crochet pumpkins to bring some of that inside my home. I have nothing against other kinds of fake or fresh pumpkins, but since I am in love with natural yarns and fibers, it was only 'natural' for me to make these. Enjoy!

And these three are hanging out together on a cute cake stand.

Wouldn't they look oh so pretty lined up on a mantle? Too bad I don't have one.

Hugs,

Linking to these awesome parties

and to http://todayscreativeblog.net/

How to make Stuffed Peppers {Recipe and Tutorial}

2011-09-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen...I give you my favorite meal ever - stuffed peppers!!! Growing up, as soon as we spotted some bell peppers in the garden, this is the meal we'd make.

They are packed with veggies, rice, and meat.

Recipe passed down from my great-grandma to my grandmother to my mother, to me....and now to you.

Vegetable, rice and meat stuffed peppers

Difficulty: medium

Cooking time: 120 min

Prep time: 30 min

ingredients

Onions	2 pieces	you can also use leeks, or both
Carrots	2 pieces
Oil	3 tbsp	I use Sunflower Seed oil in all my cooking
Rice	1 1/2 cups	Not Minute Rice
Ground meat	1 lbs	I use mixed ground pork and ground beef
Bell Peppers	1 lbs	I used gypsy peppers, which are the closest to the ones I've had growing up
Fresh Tomatoes	2 pounds	To be used for the stuffing and the sauce the peppers will cook in. You can also use chopped canned tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Fresh dill	1 bunch
Dried Savory	0.5 tsp	I didn't use it, but my mother always did
Salt	1 tsp

Black Pepper	0.5 tsp

step by step

1
Peel, wash and chop the onions. Peel, wash and grate the carrots. Wash and remove the core and seeds of one of the peppers. Finely dice the pepper.
2 Wash the tomatoes. Cut them in half, and then remove the core. I usually cut the core in the shape of a 'V' so I don't waste too much of the tomato.
3 Put the tomatoes in the food processor in batches, to make a chunky juice.
4 Saute the onions, carrots and peppers until tender. Add some of the fresh tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes on medium to low heat.
5 In a different pan, brown the meat. Add the spices now. Keep breaking it up as to not create big chunks. Drain the fat at the end.
6 Put the cooked meat in a large bowl. Set aside. The biggest I had was this aluminum looking one and so you can see an upside down distorted reflection of me taking the picture :)
7 Add your tomato, onion, carrot, and pepper mixture on top. Add the uncooked rice and the chopped dill. Mix well. Make sure it's salted enough, as the rice will soak up a lot of the flavors. Since the meat is already cooked, I just try a little bit of this mixture, just to taste for salt, and then spit it out, since the rice is uncooked. Add more spices if needed.
8 Now let's prepare the peppers. Wash them, and then carefully remove the core, and seeds with a small knife. The smaller the hole, the better.
9 Now to the fun part - stuffing the peppers. Use a tea spoon and add the rice mixture. Make sure you pack it in well, because when you boil the peppers, some of the stuffing will come out. Place them neatly in a large tall pot. Make sure they are standing up straight. Don't they look cute, all lined up like little soldiers? Make sure they are snug in there. If your pot is tall enough, you can lay some more on top, like so:
10 Pour your tomato juice on top. If it doesn't cover the peppers, add some water. Bring to a boil. Cover with a lid and let them simmer for an hour on low heat.
11 After they've cut, let them cool off for a bit. Serve warm with sour cream. Bon appetit! But wait....there's more! I always have extra stuffing, so I just put it in a ziploc back and freeze it. It's perfect for a risotto. Just defrost and simmer in a pot. Add more cooked veggies or just as is. Hugs,

What to buy from the Farmer's Market

2011-09-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

I went to the farmer's market in the morning. One hour and a fresh lemonade later,

this is what I came home with:

Tomatoes, peppers, yellow beans, beaches, cucumbers. Ah...heaven!

I bought the gypsy peppers and lots of tomatoes to make my most favorite meal - Stuffed peppers.

Would you like the recipe?