Snow Globes!!

I love this snow globe! Below is a link to directions to help you make your own. The possibilities are endless!
From: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/dc/entertaining/diy-holiday-snow-globe-103339

Holiday Wreaths

From: http://thompsonfamily.typepad.com/





























































































Here are a few non-traditional, fun wreaths I have spotted:
from: http://www.etsy.com/shop/junktrunk?section_id=6602451

http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/12/diy-project-ericas-holiday-wreath.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimnaumann/2800536243/

Lace totes

What a fun, easy idea for personalized gift bags! Perfect for "wrapping" gifts and saving paper waste. Full project found here: http://ashleyannphotography.com/blog/2009/11/21/diy-doily-canvas-bag/

Model Magic ??

I love this use of the foamy kid's clay, Model Magic!
Check out the full project here: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/11/diy-project-clay-conifers.html

Quickie Thanksgiving Decor

These are great last-minuet table decor ideas using things you might find lying around the back yard! Images from: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/

Lovely.. Tape??

Just found this post over at OhJoy's blog: http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2009/11/holy-tape.html

I can't get over the graphic beauty of electrical tape!
Here is Rebecca Ward's website with more images of her stunning instillation's: http://www.rebeccasward.com/installations.html

Yet, more paper ideas

These would make great ornaments or baubles for gift wrapping. Follow this link for full instructions: http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/how-tuesday-rolling-balls-from-magic-books-paper-toys-6140/

A very crafty weekend

This weekend, the first annual Made a community craft fair will be held! I will be at the See: parsley booth selling lovely ceramic items crafted by me and my very talented studio mates. Check out our blog for a peak at what we do: http://www.seeparsley.blogspot.com

More paper fun

These paper garlands are great! Perfect gift wrap or decor. Found at this Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KristinaMarie
Images from a post at: http://decor8blog.com/

Installation Inspiration

As an art teacher, I try to expand students' idea of what can be used as art materials so they can experience unlimited possibilities in their creative pursuits. Currently, in the art room, I have a large bin of small recycled objects. I showed it to one of my students, the other day and she instantly reached in, selected a few objects and made a wand. What a wonderful thing to be inspired to create with common, often over-looked or discarded items. I think it comes more naturally with children, to see the wonder and possibilities of a stick and string. As adults we can loose that sense of wonder. I thought this instillation piece captured that feeling of wonder and discovery! I found the images here at this lovely blog: http://ninainvorm.punt.nl

Toilet Paper Rolls

This reminds me of a Tara Donovan instillation!

Project details found here: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/11/diy-project-toilet-paper-roll-wall-art.html

Paper Kick

Creative ways to use paper seem endless, they keep popping up before me and I am giving in to the general splendor.
I found these for sale on Etsy here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29314866
I have also been eying this book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Paper-Tear-Fold-Rip-Crease/dp/1906155585/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I2UO2GH8JBMSXH&colid=1KIRBHF9HWAZW

Paper Fashions

I found this amazing website through Oh Joy's blog: http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2009/11/a-nomadic-wonderland.html

Here is a sample of their sculptural paper pieces. Very inspiring!

http://www.eunsukhur.com/#/nomadic_wonderland/recent_project:_about_normadic_wonderland/image_10

Lace Jars

I must confess, I can't seem to throw out jars. This is a great solution for those like me!
I think the lace jars could be lovely gift vessels ! ? Yes, maybe?
The full post is found here: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2008/07/diy-project-alli-coates-lacy-jars.html

Pins from Recyled Plastic

These pins are very clever!
From this source: http://blog.karenbarbe.com/2009/09/pins-made-from-reused-plastic-bottles.html

Cardboard and Paper Horses

Crafty projects that use simple, everyday objects are very appealing, especially when you can collect the materials around your house and not run out to the craft store and spend a small fortune. The details for this project can be found here: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/05/diy-project-cardboard-stampede-w-ann-wood.html

More paper inspiration

Another simple, but stunning way to use decorative paper punches
From:

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/sf/entertaining/affordable-cocktail-party-basics-to-keep-on-hand-100754

Paper Chandeliers

These paper chandeliers are lovely! Using simple paper punches, tissue paper, wire and decorative paper, you could transform a plain bulb, or create a mobile or sculpture. The possibilities are endless. I found these images at: http://decor8blog.com/2009/11/06/polish-paper-chandeliers

Crafty Ideas

I love this! It is from Design Sponge: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/11/diy-project-lindsays-wine-bottle-vases.html/diningroom-2

Using old wine bottles and simple hardware, a lovely trio of wall vases.

Crafty Hour at the Art Center

Hello, this winter, starting December 4th, I will be offering a Crafty Hour at the Arts Center.
It will run twelve weeks and is from 5:30-7:30 on Fridays. This "class" is designed for people who would love to set aside time for crafty projects, but just can't seem to eek out the time. What better way to close the work week and start to the weekend?
Encourage a group of friends to sign up and share a creative two hours. This is a wonderful time to make Christmas gifts, cards or personalized gift wrap!
I will be posting possible projects, inspirations and take suggestions.

Here is a link the the Center for the Arts, where the Crafty Hour will take place: http://www.thecenter4thearts.org

And here are a few inspiring links to get the excitement flowing: http://decor8blog.com/2009/11/06/polish-paper-chandeliers/
http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/11/diy-project-kates-pipe-cleaner-garland.html

Melinda