Seasonal Swaperoos

Swapping on Pause... Sorry!

2012-01-17T11:59:00.003-06:00

Hi There Swap Sisters!

I am so sorry to do this, but I am pregnant and struggling with morning sickness (all day long!) and am finding the need to minimize my responsibilities. My limited energy needs to first go to my family and there isn't much left after that. I fully plan to restart again when life gets calmer- although it may be a year from now. Until then, keep crafting and feel free to post any fun ideas you may have seasonally.

--Kirsti

kirstikoo(at)gmail(dot) com

THANK YOU Christine!!!

2011-12-13T18:05:00.002-06:00

This was such a fun package. Thank you for the cookbook of treats, the kisses, the ornament kit, the ornament, the Santa, and the little paint books for my little ones. My favorite was the reindeer. My little girl was also so excited about the reindeer. I love their little noses and their tails and just everything about them. Thank you, I am sure they were a lot of work for you. We love them.

2011-12-08T23:47:00.002-06:00

Megan
Thank You! We love it all!

Thank You Melonie!

2011-12-07T19:45:00.000-06:00

How cute are these snowman shirts that Melonie made for my 3 boys?!

They couldn't wait to try them on!

Thank you Melonie! They are so fun, we love them!

THANKS!!!!!

2011-12-07T15:52:00.001-06:00

Lindsey!!!

Thanks soooo much for my gift!!!! I love it all, but especially the nativity block!

I hope you have a Merry Christmas!

Thanks again!

-Megan

Thank you Karen!

2011-12-07T14:41:00.003-06:00

I was so excited when I got your package! You outdid yourself!

Everything is wonderful!! My favorites are the big "JOY" sign and the nativity. (I needed a nativity!) Thank you so much! I love everything!

Thanks again, Melanie

Thank you Teri!

2011-12-05T21:57:00.003-06:00

Thanks Teri for the awesome swap! I love the advent calendar- made out of mini match boxes all decorated. Each day there is an activity- this will be perfect for my kids and a fun way to countdown until Christmas!

My boys loved their mini stockings full of activities- especially the scissors and stencils! I couldn't even snap a picture because they were claiming whose was whose-- and the Nerds! One of the boxes had a hole so it was literally snowing red, green and white nerds!

I so love this little burlap tree (it is so my thing :).) and looks great with my other home-made trees. These little snowmen are darling!! You have to show us how you made them.

Also, I loved the quote you cut for me and I am trying to figure out what to put it on-- what did you do with yours- frame, wood...? It says:

"Each of us is an innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus! -Neal A. Maxwell." I Love it- and it would go perfect my nativities.

(And I forgot!)

This darling snowman family- it's us :) I have it on my desk in my office!

Thanks again for the fun swap Teri!

Thanks Barbara!

2011-12-04T16:07:00.001-06:00

I had so much fun participating in my first swap! I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but my mind just got reeling with all the things I could make with the little tidbits given! I not only had fun creating some little things for my swap buddy, but loved looking forward to something too!

I also am in love with what I got! Barbara you nailed the essence of me! :)

I accidentally opened the box on my bed and got glitter everywhere. Oops! Love the non-traditional take on Christmas!

Very much looking forward to the next swap and challenging myself even more! This was a great experience!

Thanks Julie!

2011-12-02T18:12:00.001-06:00

I am so excited to wear this adorable apron during all my holiday cooking, and maybe just for fun because it is so cute! Thank you soo much! The jingle bells frame is adorable and my 3 year old's favorite. My daughter loves the Merry Christmas frame and plans to help me find just the right picture to put in there. Thanks for the great package today!

Sneak Peek for Malinda

2011-12-01T15:07:00.000-06:00

Looks like snow...

A Preview For Teri....

2011-11-30T20:18:00.003-06:00

Teri - Here is your preview....Bwa-Ha-Ha!!!! I had such a blast putting it together and have just one little thing to finish up. It's personally my favorite swap gift yet....hopefully you enjoy it too! I'll be sure to mail it 2-3 day priority. Happy Holidays!!

A little peek for Kirsti

2011-11-30T15:41:00.001-06:00

I tried posting this several times yesterday, but blogger kept giving me errors and I am just now getting time to sit down at the computer and do it today.
It is in the mail and I hope you enjoy it.

Sneak Peek for Melonie

2011-11-30T14:08:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!!

I hope that you enjoy these goodies :)

Sneak peek!

2011-11-30T13:31:00.000-06:00

For Julie L.

Sending this priority today. Hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday!

Sneek Peek for Karen S

2011-11-30T09:57:00.002-06:00

It's on it's way!!! Should be there with-in a few days, it didn't have a long ways to go!

I hope you like it, I had a lot of fun!

I also hope that you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!

-Megan J

SNEAK PEEK FOR MELANIE F

2011-11-30T06:50:00.004-06:00

I HOPE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ENJOY THIS PACKAGE!

HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Sneak Peek for Christine!!!

2011-11-29T14:18:00.000-06:00

I had a lot of fun putting this package together!

I hope you love it!

Merry Christmas!!!

(I will get it in the mail today, and it doesn't have too far to go,

so you should hopefully have it within a couple of days!)

Sneak Peek for Beth!

2011-11-29T00:06:00.001-06:00

Hi there Beth! So excited to be sending these goodies to you tomorrow! I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas!!

For Lindsey K.

2011-11-21T14:31:00.001-06:00

Here is your sneak peak.. It will be in the mail by wednesday!! Hope you love it!!

Sneak Peek for Rachel S.

2011-11-15T21:08:00.002-06:00

I feel mean for teasing you like this, but hope you enjoy! :)

Winter Swap 2011

2011-11-07T14:45:00.004-06:00

I don't know about you but I am already thinking about Christmas decorations and crafting!

I love winter time; planning for the holidays makes me giddy as I think about the preparations. Christmas celebrations full of twinkling lights, hot chocolate, wrapped gifts, and more family gatherings. Let's celebrate by swapping our favorite Winter and Christmas things!

If you are not already a Seasonal Swaperoos Member, go here for details and qualifications. Once you become a member, we will gather together and create some fun seasonal and Winter holiday items: decorations, treats, paper crafts, accessories, you name it! You should spend about $15 on supplies to create your items and may also include some store bought items. Just remember that this is a craft swap, so the majority of your items should be handmade.

Here's how to participate:
Go HERE for more information on joining our Swaperoos Group! That will give you information on how to enroll. If you qualify, enroll in Swaperoos Group by paying the $5 membership fee (1 Year Membership). If you started your membership last December, you will need to renew, email me if you need me to check or I will send you a paypal bill if yours has expired.

Email me (Make sure you spell my name right with "i" before "r"!)

Give me your postal address and tell me 5 things about yourself that you want your swap partner to know about you so she can customize their gift to your needs/family size/particular likes. MAKE SURE YOU INCLUDE WHAT WINTER HOLIDAYS YOU CELEBRATE!
DEADLINE TO ENTER IS Friday, November 11.
I will pair you with your swap partner by Monday, November 14.
Create or buy your winter-time favorite items, package them up and send them to your swap partner by November 29. PLEASE HAVE YOUR PACKAGE POST MARKED ON OR BEFORE Tuesday, November 29. This way we will have our Winter items in time to decorate by the first week of December!!
Receive your new holiday items and enjoy!!

Also, when you sign up you will receive an invite to become a contributor to our Swap blog. You are committing to post a sneak peek and thank you post to your partners- we love seeing what everyone is creating!!
**I need your help in promoting this swap!! Grab the button or copy the banner, post about it on your blog and share pictures of your gift when you receive it! Please share with me any suggestions you may have along the way.**

Copy this code onto your blog!
Also leave a comment telling everyone you entered and tell us your favorite thing about winter time! Remember to email me to make sure you qualify to participate with our updated crafting quality rules :)

(a special thanks to Melonie W. for designing our Seasonal banners and buttons!)

Swaperoo Changes:

2011-11-07T12:30:00.000-06:00

At the request of many to modify Seasonal Swaperoos into a craft-only type swap, starting with the Winter Swap, Swaperoos will be a little different. In order to participate you must:

--have or participate in a craft blog, website or shop (and must be submitted to me for approval).

If you currently do not have a blog please show me some of your crafts or creations. If you have participated in the swaps in the past it will be easy for me to see the quality of your crafts and creations.

--have the majority of your swap package be handmade items. Of course it's great to add treats, accessories and trinkets, please be mindful this is a craft swap. The main items should be handmade

In addition, we will be spotlighting each of our swap members throughout the year, so we can all get to know each other and see where each of us get our inspiration. If you would like to be spotlighted with this next swap or have a project you would like to show us, let me know. Make sure you take pictures of the creation process so we can do a step by step tutorial post.

For those of you who have already paid for one year and do not qualify for future swaps, I can get a group together for the remainder of your membership.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know!

Thank you,

--Kirsti

Wooden Owl by Lyndsey F.

2011-10-18T21:35:00.006-05:00

I sure loved this cute owl that Lyndsey gave to Malinda for the Fall Swap!

Thanks for sharing with us Lyndsey and Can't wait to get to know you better!

1. Tell us a little about yourself?
I am Lyndsey and I love creating. I am a mother to 2 crazy kids .. they take up most of my time. We are a very close little family and do just about everything together. I love it that way!! Can I just say how much I love swaps - we look forward to each one!!

2.What are your favorite materials to craft with?
Hands down- SPRAY PAINT!! I seriously try to spray paint everything.. it is addicting. It provides a new life to anything.. plus its easy to change if it doesn't turn out just right. I would seriously be happy with a diet coke in one hand and a can of spray paint in the other.

3.What keeps you motivated and inspired?
I LOVE pinterest- if you have yet to check it out you MUST!! I also have a long list of favorite bloggers that inspire me. I love to change things in my home - so blogging and crafting gives me a great outlet to do that!!

4. What do you think is most rewarding about crafting?
I love making something that has my personal stamp on it. I love walking around my home and seeing the things that I have contributed with my own hands. I think it awesome to create something different then what you could pick up on a shelf at a store. It doesn't hurt either when someone sees something you have made and loves it :)

I am showing you how I created the little wood owl. I feel kind of like a cheater because I did not actually do anything beside paint and decorate this owl.. but I hope you will like it anyways.

I picked him up unfinished at a local wood craft store..

So I am not great at tutorials .. mainly because I struggle with patience and get way ahead of myself before I realize I forgot to take pictures. So here are the pieces already painted..

I sanded all the pieces and applied glitter to the wings. I use modge podge to make the glitter stick - its the easiest way I have found that doesn't make a huge mess.

Again- horrible blogger time: I cut a small piece of scrap book paper and modge podge it on Mr. Owls tummy and for his little eye balls I cut some small vinyl circles. I used the glue gun to attach all the pieces Thats it!! Easy right? Maybe to0 easy!! Thanks for letting me show you anyways :)
Thanks Lyndsey!! Also, we've made some changes in who can participate in our swaps. A list of qualifications for the Winter Swap and sign up details will be posted soon!! --Kirsti

Pumpkin Trio from Kelli

2011-10-13T22:13:00.002-05:00

Today we are excited to learn about Kelli from Lolly Jane!

1: Tell us a little about yourself: My twin sister, Kristi, and I run our blog, Lolly Jane. It's a great outlet from my busy life with 4 kids and a police officer husband who's gone a lot.

2: What are your favorite materials to craft with? I love wood and paint. Paint can make the BIGGEST difference with a little effort. And if you hate it, just re-paint it!

3: What keeps you motivated and inspired? Kristi & I motivate each other, lol! We're always bugging each other with a new craft to work on or technique to try. We're inspired by what's around us, Pinterest is a current fave too.

4: What do you think is most rewarding about crafting? The end result is the most rewarding. Looking at something that was headed to the dump but is now pretty and functional always gives me a sense of accomplishment. I have to craft on a budget, lol, cops just DON'T get paid enough!

Today I'm featuring my Pumpkin Trio. I saw the idea on another blog but slightly altered it. {I try not to copy other projects exactly and try to put my own spin on it}. It's great for fall AND Halloween and that's the best craft, a multi-use one. (:

I was looking for inspiration for my Halloween swap gift and of course began browsing my Pinterest Halloween board where I saw this cute tute. I got to work and within my daughters naptime, had a fun pumpkin trio set for my swap partner:

To make your own, you'll need:

(1) 2x4: Cut in sizes 6", 8" and 10" heights

(1) Chunky stick, cut into 3 pieces with saw

(3) Headless nails

Chisel & Hammer (wear gloves)

Mouse sander

Orange acrylic paint

Black acrylic paint

Coordinating brown ribbon

To make these bad boys:

{Part 1}

1. Cut a 2x4 into 3 sizes: 6", 8" and 10"

2. Use mouse sander to sand away splinters/rough edges

3. Use chisel to create pumpkin-like grooves

4. Discover 4-year old's pictures while you were chiseling ;)

5. Smother blocks in orange pumpkin-y paint

6. Distress pumpkins with black paint

Take a break and ~~catch up on DVR'd shows~~ wait for paint to dry :)

{Part 2}

1. After paint is dry, drill nail-size hole into wood

2. Add wood glue onto headless nail

3. Insert headless nail into drilled hole

4. Cut wood stick into 3 pieces (mine are between 1.5-2.5")

5. Drill hole into stick

6. Lightly hammer stick into nail so there's no gap

When wood glue is dry, top with ribbon and that's that!

Your pumpkin trio set is all ready for display:

I am getting SO STINKIN' EXCITED for the holidays as my home is getting more & more festive each week.

Thanks so much Kelli!! Love that this can be used for Halloween or Thanksgiving!

thanks so much, teri!!!

2011-10-13T12:33:00.003-05:00

Sorry this is so late getting to you Teri! I've been really sick that past 2 weeks.. yes you read that right 2 weeks! I LOVE everything you sent!!! I have the super cute garland hanging around my front door. Please tell your sister thanks for the hair bands! I adore them!!! Love the pumpking book, yes it shipped well! My kids think it's the coolest thing! My 11 yr old son wants to know what book it is :) he is also trying to read it lol! silly boy!! My girls love the hair bows! My husbands 3 girls are living in Toronto for the year so he's going to take their 3 to them when he goes for a visit soon. The soap is super cute! my kids were fighting over which one was going to go in their bathrooms. The craft you sent is so fun! My kids can't wait to do them! You are amazingly talented!! Thanks for the gift cert to your shop. You went above and beyond! Thanks so much for all the effort you put in! I really appreciate everything! Sorry again for this taking so long!! xoxo

Deborah & Kirsti

2011-10-13T01:01:00.000-05:00

From Kirsti to Deborah:

Thank you so much Kirsti for the great package. My grandkids loved their treat bags. I love it all! The pumpkins are so beautiful and the glass pumpkin makes me smile. You are so crafty. Thanks for being my swap partner, you made it so great!!

From Deborah to Kirsti:

Thanks Deborah for the fun swap! I especially love the pumpkin pin cushion and the framed Boo picture. My older son really enjoyed painting, making and playing with the model airplane from the first package!

Spell Books from Malinda

2011-10-10T22:00:00.000-05:00

Today we are spotlighting Malinda! The creator of these amazing spell books that have gotten so much attention during our Fall Swap!

1. Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Malinda. I've been married to my wonderful husband, Spencer for 7 years. We have 3 little boys, ages 5, 2 1/2 and 1. They keep me pretty busy! I love spending as much time with them as possible! We love to play games, watch movies, and read lots of books together as a family! But in my free time I love to scrapbook, make cards, and craft!

2. What are your favorite materials to craft with?

Wow! This could be a long list. I love making wood crafts! I've never been good with a can of spray paint, so I use a lot of acrylic paint! I also love using paper and vinyl. Living in a house full of boys, I love the chance to use colors and supplies that feel 'girly!' So I use things like glitter, ribbon, tulle, and sparkly embellishments as often as possible!

3. What keeps you motivated and inspired?

Mostly the Internet. I love looking at craft blogs. I don't feel like I'm a very creative person as far as coming up with original ideas! But I love to see an idea somewhere and then do something slightly different so that it feels more like 'me.'

4. What do you think is most rewarding about crafting?

Someone already said this, but I agree, the most rewarding thing is seeing the finished product. I love starting out with nothing and ending with something beautiful! It's also very rewarding to give my crafts as gifts and have the person receiving the gift love it!

What craft are you featuring today?

Today I'm featuring Halloween Spell Books. I saw a picture online awhile back where someone had turned some books into Harry Potter style books. I can't remember now where I even saw them at. It wasn't a tutorial, it was just a picture of the finished product. I thought they were so cute and it got me thinking how fun it would be to make some witches spell books for Halloween! This was my version.

I'm not a craft blogger, so I hadn't taken any pictures of the process of making them, and I have no idea where to start on making a tutorial. Teri, from Piccolina Designs asked me if I would give her some instructions. I gave her the basic instructions and from that she made a set of books for herself and was nice enough to create an awesome tutorial for them!

You can view Teri's full tutorial for the Spell Books Here!! She also includes a free printable so we can make our own (which we all think is totally awesome!)

Thanks Malinda for allowing us to get to know you better!! We loved your spell books and appreciate you help so we could figure out how to make them.

Thanks Kelli - from Savannah

2011-10-10T15:56:00.000-05:00

I actually got my package a week ago, but had computer problems so I'm just getting around to posting a picture.

I absolutely LOVED everything in my kit. LOVED IT! You made this pumpkin lover very happy.

Baby Jar Halloween Garland

2011-10-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hi all, this is my first guest post so be kind. I am Teri, better known as Piccolina Designs in the blog world (pronounced pick-o-lean-ah). I am the mama to two fabulous toddlers that keep me very busy (and entertained) and designing digital scrapbook kits is what I do when they are in bed. Luckily, I have great sleepers. :) I also love anything crafty. I actually have kind of an addiction to crafty things. I think my hubby avoids the craft dugeon (so called because it is in the unfinished basement) because he just does not understand why I need all those supplies. I enjoy sewing, crocheting, hair bow making, anything crafty.

Kristi had a few questions for me to answer, so here goes.

What are your favorite materials to craft with?
That is hard, I love fabrics and kind of collect them, but it is probably paper. Even though I am 100% digital in my scrapbooking, I still cannot resist all those beautiful scrapbook papers at the craft stores. So I like to find ways to use those papers.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?
The internet. I remember growing up my mother had a full size file cabinet FULL of files with crafting/sewing ideas. I loved going through those folders and finding things to do and try. Now, lucky me, I have the internet. There are so many wonderful crafters/artists out there that are so generous with their talents. I recently joined Pinterest. I love it. I love being able to so easily see that things I am inspired by and the projects I would like to do. I recently started a new board called "Pinned and Done" for pinning the things I have completed. It is almost a personal challenge to see how many pins I can move into that board each week. You are all more than welcome to check out my boards.What do you think is most rewarding about crafting?
I just love the feeling of creating something. Especially if it is from supplies I already have on hand. I also enjoy seeing my little ones run around in clothes I made for them or play with items I created for them. My Little Lady is starting to craft as well. So fun

What crafts are you featuring today?
Today I am going to share a hybrid project. Kind of a blending of two projects. One that I came up with and one I have been wanting to do for over a year. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. Last year I saw these cute, cute, cute jars on Not So Idle Hands.

Adorable right?! There are lots of variations on the internet, but these are just cute. I decided I wanted to make a light garland when I made mine. So I started saving baby food jars last year.
This is what mine turned out like.
And this is them with the lights on.
I chose to do them this way so that they would be just as cute in the light and they are in the dark. Want to make one? Of course you do. Lets get started.

Supplies:
Strand of lights (mine was 12" long, fifty lights) Baby food jars w/ lids (mine are the smallest ones and I have 32 of them, but you can do less) Tissue paper (orange, white, green) Mod Podge Brush for mod podge black vinyl/paper or permanent marker Fabric (you will need about 3/4yd of fabric per yard of lights, so since my light strand was 4 yards long, I had about 3 yards of fabric. I had 5 different fabrics (tulle and cotton). So I had about 5/8 yd of each.) Scissors or rotary cutter, pinking shears Drill Needle nose pliers Glue Gun and glue sticks Spray paint (green and black) Black primer* not necessary but recommended

Ok, that is quite the list I know. To start I did all of my jars. I followed the directions over at Not so Idle Hands for this. You can see it {HERE}. I did my faces with black vinyl cut out on the Silhouette using some shapes from Silhouette. But you can totally mod podge some black paper on for them or even draw them on with a black permanent marker.
While those are drying (I left my alone for 24 hours). I worked on the other parts. First the lids. I wanted mine to string onto the light strand so I had to figure that out. First I drilled a hole in the middle of the lid from the top. I put a wood block under the lid so that the drill bit would have somewhere to go into when it went through the lid. Be careful, the lid will spin on the drill bit if not held well.
Then I took my needle nose pliers and put them into the drilled hole and twisted and twisted to make the hole larger.I wanted it to be able to slide all the way over the light, but not too large.Be carefulwith these, the undersides are very jaggy and sharp.Next I took all my lids outside for a makeover. I primed them with a light coat of black primer from Krylon. This is probably not necessary, but I love how much easier it makes the rest of the coats go on.
Then time for the black and green paint. I needed 12 green ones for my pumpkins and I used black lids for my Frankensteins and ghosts. I applied two coats, allowing them to dry for 30 minutes between coats.
Once your lids are completely dry ( I let mine sit outside in the sun for 3 hours), it is time to get them ready for hanging on the light. I stumbled on this method while trying a few others and love it. Mostly because it is easy and also because I can remove the lids from the lights if I need to. So take you hot glue gun and make a ring of glue around the hole in the lid on the underside of the lid. You want your ring of glue to be a little large and to hang over the opening a little. I worked with three at a time. When I got glue on all three, I took the first in the line up and slid it onto the light. The glue was still a little pliable, so it slid nicely.The glue ring acts kind of like a gasket in hold tightly to the light, but is still removable if needed.
Do this for all of your lights. I staggered my lids every other light, with a few right next to each other. The staggering depends on the number of jars you have.

Now this part you can do before you put the lids on the lights or after. Totally up to you. I did mine after.
Cut your fabric into 1" strips. I used my rotary cutter for some and my pinking shears for others. Then cut the strips into 5 inch lengths. You will have quite to pile of strips when you are done.
Now, put on a good movie and sit down with you light strand and you fabric strips. I like working with one type of fabric at a time. I tied 3-4 strips in each section of the lights, working all the way down the lights. If you like you can do a pattern (1 Fabric A, 1 Fabric B, 1 Fabric C, 1 Fabric D, repeat), but I did mine random.
Then I came back along the strand and tied it on another type of fabric. I continued to do this until all my fabric strips were gone and the light strand was covered. Warning, you will be covered as well....with strings and frays from the fabric :)By now you cute little jars are dry and ready to be screwed on the lids, hung and enjoyed. I am so happy with the result. Hope you enjoy yours as well.

Thanks so much Teri!!! What a fun idea!

Spray-Paint Pillows

2011-10-04T23:34:00.012-05:00

**I am so excited to announce that in between our swaps, we will be featuring some of our Swap members- so we can get to know them and see what motivates and inspires them to create!!**

When I saw these pillows, I knew we needed to know how to make them!

Thank you Jessica for being willing to show us how and for this great tutorial!

---------

1. Tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Jessica. I have been married to my best friend and husband Matt, for four years. We recently bought a new house and have being doing odds and ends to make it our own. I grew up watching my mom being crafty, so as I have gotten older, I have found my own creativity.

My blog: http://mattjessicapope.blogspot.com/

My Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChapmanPlace

2. What are your favorite materials to craft with?

I love to craft with mainly, wood, fabric and spraypaint. I also love Martha Stewart glitter. Martha is amazing…

3. What keeps you motivated and inspired?

I have my ups and downs. I find that I am more creative around major holidays. I love to look through Google Images to see if I can find something to inspire me. I also go to stores and form projects in my head. Mostly, I am inspired by other blogs. I can spend hours looking at other people’s blogs.

4. What do you think is most rewarding about crafting?

I love to see the finished product. I also love to display my stuff and have other people find enjoyment out of my creations. But the thing that is most rewarding for me is when other people like my stuff and recreate it in their own way.

Now onto the tutorial!!

For the Fall Swap, I made a spray-paint pillow. The image on the pillow was a crow. For this post I will show you how to make my Trick or Treat pillows. The concept is the same as using just regular old spray-paint.

First, cut out a pattern. With my Cricut I cut out a stencil. The letters are discarded and I use the cut out left behind. (Kirsti's note: Jessica has the letter stencils available in her etsy store here!) For the material of the pillows, I decided to use painters drop-cloth. I found this at Walmart for $10. Out of the drop cloth, cut six 15"x15" squares.
Next, spray the back of the pattern with adhesive, and center it on the square. Press the stencil down and make sure it sticks. Tape the edges that are showing so the spray does not get everywhere. After you have everything in its place, SPRAY!! Carefully take the pattern off and let dry. Sew the back of the pillow on and leave a hole to insert the stuffing.Finally, stuff the pillow and sew the hole up...

Now you got yourself some cute Halloween Pillows!

I also made these:

So cute and fun!!! Thanks so much Jessica!!

Thank you Lindsey K!

2011-10-03T16:00:00.003-05:00

I got my package today & I love everything! Amber swiped her little book right up & signed "book" & "read" to me! She then identified all the animals & the strawberries in the book! :D Also, it's pretty cool that it's "Ellie's Tea Party," 'cause one of my favorite cousins is named Ellie! She lives in Seattle now & I miss her!

I'm sorry I can't post my pics yet... my little memory stick adapter has grown legs & disappeared! >_< I'll post as soon as I can!

In lieu of pics... my wonderful package includes: Little Suzy's Zoo book, plate that says "Let's eat y'all!" (a nod to her Texas home!)with a turkey, 2 little jack-o-lanterns bowls, recipe cards with her recipe for southern style sweet potatoes, a felt candy corn bag (with a cute lil' smile), Halloween chipboard stickers & alphabet stickers, 6 fall-themed ribbons, 2 green & purple fabric flower accents & the alphabet stamps I am SO excited about! ^_^

[EDIT] Found my memory stick adapter when I looked under the couch (for the 4th time!) from a different angle!

Everything, with Amber swiping her book!
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Amber trying to sign "book" while holding the book.

Amber signing "read."

A closer view of everything except the book. :D

She was lifting the plate & bowls & saying "Num! Num!"

Thank You Tiffany

2011-10-01T16:30:00.002-05:00

Thank You! Tiffany made me a table runner, coasters, and hotpads! She also sent a cute pumpkin craft.

Thank You Barbra!

2011-10-01T14:10:00.002-05:00

Barbra, sorry this Thank You is so late. I received your package earlier this week but then came down with a bug and have been out of commission. I really like my package!!! the frame is the cutest thing ever!!!! Thanks for all the effort you went to, to make this package for me! Happy Fall!

Thanks,

Megan J

Thank You, Jessica!

2011-09-29T16:36:00.003-05:00

Thank you so much! I am excited to use all these cute things!

Sneak Peek for Kirsti

2011-09-29T01:12:00.000-05:00

from Deborah

Thanks Julie!

2011-09-28T15:59:00.001-05:00

Kids loved the pez and the candy and the glowsticks! How very thoughtful! I love the blocks you created for us. Thanks for taking the time and thought and effort for this package. We appreciate it! :D

Thank you, Tracy + Savannah Sneak Peek

2011-09-27T15:07:00.001-05:00

Tracy, thanks for the fun goodies!

I love that tea towel, so cute & festive. The candy corns were gone in a jiffy, my FAVE holiday treat!! We loved everything, thank you very much!

ps: Great minds think alike, I sent my partner the same potpourri the day before, lol!! You didn't just read that, Savannah ;)

________________________________________

Sneak peek for Savannah:

Savannah, I shipped yours late Saturday afternoon so it's on its way via snail mail. Hopefully you love it all, Miss Pumpkin lover ;)

Thank you Monica!

2011-09-26T22:01:00.002-05:00

Thank you so much for the package. I love everything. The painting is so fantastic and my son can not wait to paint the monsters. Thanks again!

Sneak Peak for Monica I.

2011-09-26T21:58:00.001-05:00

I hope you like everything! Happy Fall!

2011-09-26T18:39:00.000-05:00

Thank you Karen!!! I absolutely LOVE everything! The fall decor is already set out and the candy is being eaten as I type this. My kids were so excited to watch me open the box and even more excited when they say the taffy and the scrapbooking things! Thanks again and have a Happy Fall!!
Julie

Thank you, Megan J!

2011-09-26T17:38:00.000-05:00

I was so happy when I saw your package! My kids were way excited to open it. "What's in there?!"

I love everything! The shirts are so special, thank you! I already hung up the banner and put out the blocks. I LOVE the little owl notepad. He makes me smile!

Thank you so much!!!

Thanks Savannah!

2011-09-26T16:57:00.001-05:00

Thanks so much we love it!

Thank you Collette

2011-09-25T22:52:00.003-05:00

As you can see my little lady was very excited about the package. It was delivered yesterday, but since we never really use the front door, it was not discovered until today when hubby went that way to head out for a church meeting tonight.
We opened and both kiddos has a great time with the bubble wrap :) We put together the Halloween finger puppets before they went to bed. I love all the red in the package and I love that you provided me with items that I can use to create with. And, oh yes, the little lady is sleeping with her pez. Thank you.

2011-09-25T19:36:00.003-05:00

THANK YOU TO KIRSTEN

Thank you for the cute things you sent, I love the pumpkins so thanks for sending the instructions so I can make some as gifts. My grandchildren loved the glasses. I will think of you when I use all the fun stuff you sent

Colette J

Melanie

2011-09-25T17:55:00.002-05:00

Sorry this post is late, the package was sent yesterday! hope you enjoy it!

-Megan

Sneak Peek for Jessica P.

2011-09-25T12:43:00.001-05:00

Sneak Peek for Deborah

2011-09-24T14:51:00.002-05:00

So excited-- hope you love everything!

I'll be mailing it off today :)

Thank you Melanie!

2011-09-24T12:15:00.003-05:00

I love the package! I am so excited to try the orange nail polish! I've never tried making cards out of non-white blanks. It'll be so fun creating cards with the round red ones! I am constantly in need of more chapstick/lip balm. Stickers are always a great crafting "accessory." I love apple decorations and of course I will be using the baking cups to make delicious treats! Thank you!

For Barbara A.

2011-09-24T11:08:00.002-05:00

Here is a peek at you what is in your package. It was shipped yesterday :)

A BIG thank you to Malinda Q.

2011-09-23T14:57:00.002-05:00

Oh my gosh - You ROCK!! I could not believe all the cute stuff in this package!! The books are too cool - and the little ghost is adorable! My daughter is covered in chocolate and stickers;)

I had to post more then one picture ...

See what I mean?...

And I had the perfect spot for these plates.. I love the vinyl letters on them!!
Thank you sooooo much!!!

Sneak Peek for Karen

2011-09-23T13:22:00.001-05:00

Halloween is my FAVORITE time of year, so I had a lot of fun putting this package together for you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Sneak Peek for Tiffany B.

2011-09-23T10:34:00.000-05:00

Julie

Sneak Peak for Kelli M.

2011-09-22T19:20:00.002-05:00

Collete J.

2011-09-21T23:21:00.003-05:00

Enjoy.

2011-09-21T22:45:00.003-05:00

Sneak Peek for Teri K

Sending it off tomorrow, Hope you enjoy and have a great Fall season

Thank You Lyndsey!

2011-09-21T19:28:00.000-05:00

Where to start? First of all, I am in LOVE with the owl! It is so adorable! And I love the argyle pattern behind the BOO! That was such a special touch! The ring pops are not in the picture because they are long gone! I had to wrestle books and stickers away from boys so I could put them in the picture! Everything is wonderful, I love it all! Thank you so much!

Sneak Peek for Lyndsey!

2011-09-21T19:23:00.001-05:00

We got to swap with each other! How fun is that?!

It will be in the mail tomorrow!

Sneak Peek for Lindsey K.

2011-09-21T19:05:00.001-05:00

Hope you like it all!

For Kirsten

2011-09-21T17:35:00.000-05:00

Sneak peak for Kirsten T.

Hope you enjoy it! :)

Sneak peek for Julie L.

2011-09-20T22:59:00.002-05:00

Sneak Peek for Malinda Q.

2011-09-15T21:46:00.002-05:00

Fall Time Favorites Swap 2011!!

2011-09-02T10:51:00.005-05:00

Wow! Can I just say how much I am loving these swaps?!! And the fall swaps are always my favorite! **One quick reminder: When you sign up, you are committing to post a sneak peek and a thank you post on the blog**

Anyone can participate by gathering together some fun Fall, Halloween or Thanksgiving items: decorations, treats, paper crafts, accessories, you name it! You should spend about $15 on the package. Items included could be handmade or store bought, or a combination of the two. Though I always love handmade items, I don't want to discourage anyone who doesn't feel "crafty" from joining the swap. Remember this is a "favorites" swap so really think about what your favorite fall items are. The best swaps are personalized and unique!

HERE ARE THE RULES:

Please do not sign up if you will not be able to commit to sending your package on time. Dates are not suggestions, they are deadlines! Once you become a member of swaperoos swap group by paying the $5 membership fee, you will receive access to our blog as a publisher. You MUST post a sneak peek to your partner and a thank you to the person who sent you a package. We want to see what goodies are being created and sent!!

Here's how to participate:

---If you haven't already, enroll in Swaperoos Group by paying the $5 membership fee (1 Year Membership), go here for details or click on the Paypal option on the right.

---Email me (Make sure you spell my name right with "i" before "r"!)

Email me your address and tell me 5 things about yourself that you want your swap partner to know about you so she can customize their gift to your needs/family size/particular likes. Please do this even if you have been a long-time member so I have updated addresses and info.

---DEADLINE TO ENTER IS Sept. 9.

I will pair you with your swap partner by September 10.

---Create or buy your fall-time favorite items, package them up and send them to your swap partner by Saturday, September 24.

---Post a sneak peek to your partner to see before they receive their package

---Receive your new holiday items, post a thank you on the blog, and enjoy!!

**Grab a button to share and don't forget about our friends referral program here!****

Copy this code onto your blog!

Thanks, Christine!

2011-07-08T18:54:00.000-05:00

2011-06-27T22:14:00.002-05:00

Thank you to Savannah, I love the things you sent me. I have a son in law that is in the army and I love patriotic things. I am excited to try the recipes you sent, and I love the note book and book mark. I hope you have a great 4th of July

Colette

Thanks you Naomi

2011-06-25T18:18:00.003-05:00

I love the beach bag -yellow is my favorite color :) My son has a birthday coming up and I told him we would make the star chocolates to put out with his birthday cake at his party!! The kids love there little notebooks- they are excited to color in them!!

Thanks Lyndsey!!!

2011-06-22T14:57:00.003-05:00

I love everything! Love the colors! Love the decor! Love the polish! Love it all!!!

(Sorry it took so long for the post, we have been out of town.

So happy to come home to such a great package! Thank you!!!)

Thank You Monica!

2011-06-21T18:02:00.002-05:00

I love everything! Thank You!

Thank you Kirsti & sneak peek for Katie B

2011-06-18T21:36:00.002-05:00

Major THANKS Kirsti! My kids adore everything of course!

My hubs gobbled up the cinnamon bears {his fave treat, how'd you know?!} and I loved the bread, YUM. We immediately aired up the cute animals & went swimming...so fun! Saving the flags for the 4th! So happy with our goodies, thank you! xoxo

. . .

Sneak peek for Katie B:

Hope you love the 4th of July as much as I do! (:

Thank You Missy

2011-06-18T18:22:00.001-05:00

Missy,

Thank You for the goodies!

I can't wait to use them camping/on a picnic.

Adding the bag in was a great useful touch! Thanks again!!!

-Megan

Thanks Debra

2011-06-18T09:40:00.000-05:00

I was finally able to pick up my package yesterday and I LOVE it. The wreath is beautiful. The sauce brush, pretty much the cutest thing ever!

To Colette from Savannah

2011-06-18T09:38:00.000-05:00

I got it in the mail yesterday. Hope you enjoy it.

Karen S

2011-06-16T20:42:00.003-05:00

I LOVE THE PACKAGE! Thank you SO MUCH! Everything in there was perfect for us. From the trail mix and marshmallow roasters to the vinyl sign, lemon stuff and lotion-it was all awesome. Especially love the "H". We didn't have one like it.

Have a great summer!

Thank you Lindsey!!!

2011-06-16T17:24:00.002-05:00

I can't tell you how much I loved the package! The hair bows, embellished shirt & hand towel, chalk and chalk mat, etc!!! Perfection. My kids were delighted with the new coloring book and fun alpha cards. Oh and the best is that spice mix/grill rub/yummy goodness! I have pretty much put it on everything I've eaten for 3 days. I will definitely be hunting down some more of that.

(Oh and Blogger is being weird and I can't get my pic to post. I'll try again later this evening)

Thanks again!

Kiersten

Oh so embarrassed!

2011-06-16T13:12:00.000-05:00

Dear Deborah Pressley, You have not been forgotten! I have had a heck of a week, but I will have your box in the mail tomorrow along with a sneak peak.

And Colette, we love our box! Again, so sorry for the delay. A pic with a big Thank you coming tomorrow!!

Thank you Malinda!!!

2011-06-16T01:50:00.002-05:00

We LOVE our package!! Thank you so much for including my boys-

they love getting prizes in the mail :)

I am in love with my summer plaque, flip flops and fireworks!

So cute, have been snacking on the yummy tootsie rolls and made popsicles right away.

Thank you so much for our wonderful package, we love it all!

Sneak Peek for Kelli M

2011-06-16T01:44:00.003-05:00

Sorry it's so late!! After being hit hard with a cold then the flu, I am finally up and running again. Sent this baby off priority today.

--Kirsti --aka Katie B :)

Thank you Julie!

2011-06-15T13:23:00.003-05:00

Thanks for everything Julie! I love it! Amber has a thing for bags & purses, so her "A" bag is perfect! The dragonfly goes perfectly with the decor in her room & I think the butterfly magnet is so pretty! As you can see from the pictures, she's also very interested in the red flowers. I think they're going to live on our front door for a while. Of course, I'm very excited about the 4th of July scrapbooking stuff & BEADS!! ^_^ Thanks so much!

Here she is already getting into my stuff! ;)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ (a note from Amber.)

Here's everything except the flower garland she stole:
text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 248px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnqPLrhwRi0/Tfj5lMRM5bI/AAAAAAAAAUM/jIExttCmnXI/s400/DSC00051-2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618514952488543666" />

"What's in here?"

*+++++ (another note from Amber... she's helpful!)

/
"Aren't I so pretty with my little bag?" :D

+
After the flowers again!

++++++++9+ (Amber's final "word")
*-++

Thank you Megan!!

2011-06-14T15:09:00.000-05:00

I just LOVE all of my goodies!!! My kids immediately picked out the bookmark that they wanted, which is perfect since we just signed up for the summer reading program at the library!!

I have already started using the adorable note pad and pen set and have hung up my letters in my craft room...thank you soooo much!!!

Julie

Dear Colette

2011-06-14T10:17:00.000-05:00

I haven't forgotten you. I went to make a craft and I was out of stuff so I ordered some supplies. I should have it ready to mail to you in the next day or two. I'll post a preview when I get it ready to mail. Here's your 1st hint:

I have written down roughly 25 of my favorite things to try in the kitchen. :)

Sneak Peek for Savannah

2011-06-14T10:06:00.003-05:00

To Savannah from Deborah:

Hope you enjoy your surprise!

Thank You Kiersten!

2011-06-13T23:34:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much Kiersten for such a fun package! I have to tell you that based on everything you picked for me, I feel like you know me much better than the 5 very basic facts that were sent to you! Everything you sent to me is wonderful! I love the pink and purple scrapbook paper! The note cards are adorable! I can't wait to decorate the chip board Q! And I'm in LOVE with the apron! I have a confession to make.....I have had a new sewing machine for over a year now and have never used it! I've been too intimidated! But I can't wait to get it out and make this apron! So thank you for giving me the push I need to get over my fear!

I love patriotic items and my boys love the glow sticks and already can't wait to make some star cookies! Love the little molds and basket too!

Once again, thank you for everything! This was such a fun swap! You are awesome!

Sneak Peek For Tracy...

2011-06-13T11:45:00.003-05:00

Hi Tracy- ONE of your gifts is made with these fabric combinations....no it's NOT a Chrisy Lee Doll! Lol!! I will be sending it out tomorrow priority from Idaho Falls. Sorry for the delay. We were out of town last week and I wasn't able to get your cute item finished in time.

Hope you have a fabulous summer! :0)

Sneak Peak for Kiersten K.

2011-06-12T22:32:00.002-05:00

I hope you have a great summer!

Sneak Peak for Julie L

2011-06-11T22:31:00.002-05:00

In the mail as of Friday, sorry it's takin me so long to get my pic up! Hope you like it!!

-Megan

For Tracy H.

2011-06-11T16:10:00.001-05:00

sent in mail 6-11-11

from Colette J

Sneak Peak for Megan

2011-06-10T21:46:00.002-05:00

On it's way to you!

Sneak Peek for Malinda

2011-06-10T17:59:00.002-05:00

Put it in the mail this morning. Happy Summertime!

Sneak Peek for Monica I

2011-06-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

Monica, this went out in the mail today. I hope you fave fun with everything in your package!! Happy Summer to you :)
Julie

Missys sneek peek

2011-06-09T20:06:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure why picture didn't work before! I sent it on thursday enjoy!

Sneak Peek for Kirsti!

2011-06-09T14:10:00.001-05:00

Just got it in the mail! I hope you like it!

Sneak Peek for Naomi!

2011-06-08T22:16:00.001-05:00

I should get it in the mail tomorrow. I hope you like it!

Sneak Peek for Lindsey K

2011-06-08T20:25:00.002-05:00

A little RED, WHITE and BLUE just for YOU!!

--kirsti

Sneak Peek for Karen

2011-06-07T15:49:00.003-05:00

I will be mailing this off tomorrow :)

Sneak Peek for Jessica!

2011-06-06T17:47:00.002-05:00

Hope you like everything! :D

Summertime Swap!

2011-05-19T18:51:00.002-05:00

I LOVE Summer! Playing in the sprinklers, wearing flip flops, getting a suntan, family vacations, barbecues and ice cream cones. Summertime rocks!
Let's celebrate summer with a summertime swap!

Here's how to participate:
If you haven't already, enroll in Swaperoos Group by paying the $5 membership fee (1 Year Membership), go here for details or click on the Paypal option on the right.

Email me (Make sure you spell my name right with "i" before "r"!)
Give me your postal address and tell me 5 things you love about summer or anything that you want your swap partner to know about you so she can customize their gift to your needs/family size/particular likes. Even if you have been a member from the very beginning, please do this so I can keep you all sorted out!

Here are the rules. Please do not sign up if you will not be able to commit to sending your package on time. Dates are not suggestions, they are deadlines! Once you become a member of swaperoos swap group, you will receive access to our blog as a publisher. You must post a sneak peek to your partner and a thank you to the person who sent you a package. We want to see what goodies are being created and sent!!

Comment here by Friday, May 27 to join. Email me your 5 things and make sure your swap membership is current.
I will pair you with your swap partner on Saturday, May 28.
Create or buy your favorite summer items, (totaling about $15) package them up and send them to your swap partner by June 10. This gives you 2 weeks to gather your gifts! PLEASE HAVE YOUR PACKAGE POST MARKED ON OR BEFORE Friday, June 10th.
Receive your new summer goodies and enjoy!!
**I need your help in promoting this swap!! Grab the button or copy the banner, post about it on your blog or facebook and share pictures of your gift when you receive it! When you become a member of Swaperoos, you will have access to this blog to post sneak peaks and thank yous to your swap partner! Please share with me any suggestions you may have along the way.**

Copy this code onto your blog!

Tiffany THANK YOU!

2011-04-10T17:08:00.002-05:00

We loved everything in our package! The table runner is so cute! We have used almost everything. Thanks so much!!!

Thank you Kirsti!!

2011-04-03T19:51:00.000-05:00

I was so excited when I opened the much anticipated box from Seasonal Swaperoos! It was full of all kinds of goodies...see..

My kids were so excited to get their own easter buckets full of pez, playdough, pencils and chalk. I just love the easter eggs that you mod podged with paper, I may just have to make some more to go with it :). But, I must say that my favorite is the frame. I just think the sheet metal with the magnets is simply awesome! Thank you for the sweet note, and your reason behind the frame. I may have to use it for my precious Ryan...thank you for remembering him!
Happy Easter!

2011-04-02T23:34:00.000-05:00

Thank you JennyLyn for the "awesomest" package ever!!!

CUTE BUNNY!!

Modge Podged plastic Easter eggs! I’m gonna have to make some more of these. I LOVE them!!

And the carrots are my favorite! I have been wanting to get some more Easter decor this year and this fit the bill perfectly!! So talented!!!

Love, LOVE these rose magnets made out of paper. I have “seen” them online and now I have one so I can actually try to make one myself! Thanks so much!!

Fabric covered decor balls!! I put some of these in a hurricane that had some Easter grass in it.

And the Sour Patch Jelly Beans! Well let me tell ya, my kids love getting swaps for me because there is usually something that they “steal” from me! This time it was the jelly beans!!

Thanks again JennyLyn! It was PERFECT!!!

Thank You Beth!

2011-04-02T15:02:00.000-05:00

My son was very excited to find my swap box in the mail today! He loves seeing everything as much as I do. I barely got the picture taken when my almost 5 year old came along and spotted the ladybug cookie. Everything is wonderful, I'm a little embarrassed to say that the little notebook and pad of paper are my favorite! I am a note & list girl!! The cupcake liners will be used this week for my daughters birthday, and I'm really excited to find something to create with the Lei! (I hope that was it's intention!) Thank you again, and Happy Spring to you.

P.S. My Mom is here for a couple days, and peanut butter cups are her favorite.... if I don't eat them first!

Thank You Karen

2011-04-02T11:49:00.002-05:00

I really like everything that was in my package. I can't wait to use the fabric and the bag...I'm thinking it will become my library book bag! Thanks again so much!!!!!