Candejo's Creations

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-10-13T08:30:00.001-05:00

My favorite time of the year!

2011-10-12T06:52:00.007-05:00

It's one of my favorite times of the year - FALL! Make sure to click the link on the left at least once a week - now that the busy Farmer's Market and show season is almost over I'll be adding new items to the store for the fall and winter. And it's getting to be...MAGIC SLIPPER TIME! If you have any great ideas for items you'd like to see just let me know.

Tutorial Tuesday - Understanding Thread

2011-10-11T06:39:00.000-05:00

I found a helpful blog post last month by Jenna at Sew Happy Geek all about thread - understanding it's weight and uses! I really appreciate her taking the time to help us all out by typing it so well, very clear and easy to understand. Thread is one of those things that we think we can get by with using whatever we have or whatever is least expensive - and it isn't always the best choice to do that. Here's the link - I hope you learn as much as I did!

Understanding Thread (weights and uses)

World Smile Day!

2011-10-07T06:19:00.003-05:00

Back in 1963, a commercial artist named Harvey Ball designed the now-classic smiley face. You know the one:

Harvey became worried that his smiley face was becoming too commercialized and was beginning to lose its meaning. So Harvey declared that the first Friday in October should be World Smile Day, a day to smile!

The theme of this holiday is "Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile."

What a fabulous holiday, don’t you think? We could all use a few extra smiles, and we could all benefit from performing a few more acts of kindness. I found this cute list of ideas from (who else?) Oprah.

These would be great way to celebrate World Smile Day:

Say "Good morning" to a person standing next to you in the elevator.
Pay the toll for the driver behind you.
Write a letter to a child who could use some extra attention. Kids love getting mail.
Offer to pick up groceries for an elderly neighbor, especially in extreme weather.
Say "I love you" to someone you love.
Out of the blue, send flowers to a friend.
Say "please" and "thank you"—and really mean it.
Let a fellow driver merge into your lane.
Offer to baby-sit for a single mom.
Call or write to a teacher who changed your life.
Bring a box of doughnuts to share at the office.
Write a note to the boss of someone who helps you, and explain how great a job that person is doing.
Throw away your trash—and someone else's—after a movie, picnic or visit to a park.
Help a friend pack for a move.
Before a friend moves away, give her your favorite recipe or quote and a photo of the two of you together.

So what will YOU be doing for World Smile Day?

Motivation Monday

2011-09-26T09:16:00.002-05:00

“A book is not only a friend, it makes friends for you. When you have possessed a book with mind and spirit, you are enriched. But when you pass it on you are enriched threefold.”
— Henry Miller
The Books In My Life (1969)

---- Make sure to click the link to BookCrossing.com if you love books.

What a great program and shows us all what a little motivation and a great idea can accomplish!

Snacks - No Bake Energy Bites

2011-09-20T10:10:00.003-05:00

I am always searching for quick healthy snacks to make for the house. We have such a wide age range it can be difficult trying to please everyone - but smashed peas and carrots always has wonderful ideas that she shares! We LOVE the no bake energy bites, they not only taste wonderful they are quick and easy to make too - can't get any better than that.

No Bake Energy Bites

Thank you so much for this wonderful recipe Maggie!

Once a month cooking, well maybe...

2011-09-02T08:29:00.006-05:00

You all know I love Once A Month cooking ideas and recipes, but I've found something else I love too! Easy recipes and a Once a week cooking method. A few days ago I was flipping through the TV channels (during our recent yucky heatwave...grrrr) and happened upon a cooking segment on a show called The Talk. I heard the word chicken so my ears perked up! It was a great idea about Sunday long cooking and how to use that cooking for things most of the rest of the week. Took me FOREVER to find the information on the Talk website, of course I had no idea it was a re-run. But here's the link to the information -

Recipes and Shopping Lists - Family Food Makeover

This of course led me to more research, where I found the blog! YEAH!

BLOG

It's got recipes and tips and loads of great information. I can't wait to hear what YOU think. We've already shopped and started on the chicken food makeover talked about on the Talk, because I work from home I actually cooked yesterday (Thursday) and we had the soup last night. We are excited to cook and eat the rest of the week's plan! I'll follow up and let you know how it went next week.

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-09-01T06:20:00.001-05:00

Tutorial Tuesday - Make an Embellished Grocery Bag Container!! {great item to keep in your car}

2011-08-30T05:06:00.001-05:00

If you just can't get into the fabric grocery bags but you still want to do what you can to be "green" - here's another idea to make it easy for you to recycle those plastic bags again and again! This is a really fun, fast and easy tutorial and we all will have empty wipes containers from our kids going back to school.

"Summer Social" Guest Project -- Make an Embellished Grocery Bag Container!! {great item to keep in your car}

Motivation Monday

2011-08-29T06:39:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you just can't say it better than someone else...and that someone else is Kathy at thedreamygiraffe She not only has happy colorful art, she also does awesome motivational word art - and I've found my absolute favorite saying...in her words!

Here's the link - We all have brick walls. Make sure to check it out and all the other great things in her shop! Wouldn't this make a great gift for someone?!

Redux -Candejo's Creations: FAQ answers to your store questions!

2011-08-18T05:57:00.002-05:00

Candejo's Creations: FAQ answers to your store questions!: I've had email questions about how the store works, so hopefully this will answer what you've been wanting to know. Hopefully I didn't miss ...

Motivation Monday

2011-08-15T07:11:00.000-05:00

If a friend is in trouble, don't annoy him by asking if there is anything you can do. Think up something appropriate and do it. ~Edgar Watson Howe

Put this in practice every day of your life. People, yes even friends...close friends....will run and hide from you when things aren't going well in your life. I don't think it's because they necessarily want to, but either a) they just simply don't know what to do or b) their fear that this could possibly happen to their own life takes over and that just hits to close for comfort and stops them from doing anything. You really don't want to leave your friend "out there alone" do you? So come on, what's STOPPING YOU?! You will never know until you try the rewards you will reap when you reach out that hand to really help someone you love.

Sunday Sewing Tip - Hand Understitching

2011-08-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

The best way to get that facing or lining to look beautiful in your next garment project is shown in this great tutorial from Threads. This is a great magazine if you're interested in techniques and fundamentals, it can really help you take your design ideas to the next level!

Hand Understitching - Threads

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-08-11T06:05:00.000-05:00

Bring out the animal in you!

2011-08-10T07:00:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it, we're already heading to fall?! The older I get, the more it seems like you just blink and a year has passed. If you're looking for a new bag for the fall season make sure to check out the shop. This design is my daughter's favorite - she has one in a zebra print. Don't forget, you can special order any design in your color and fabric choices!

Tutorial Tuesday - Fabric Composition Notebook Cover

2011-08-09T08:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I promised you I would share a great tutorial for making your own craft project journal. This tutorial was written by Julie at Joy's Hope and it's the perfect solution for those of us who are needing help getting organized. (If you have kids, they would love it for school too!) Make sure to check out the rest of Julie's blog and tell her thank you for sharing!

Fabric Composition Notebook Cover

Motivation Monday

2011-08-08T07:10:00.001-05:00

"In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure." Bill Cosby

Have you ever had that great concept for a new craft project...and then just never did it. Did you give up because you weren't sure it would work, or did you give up because you just lost focus on it? I found that the later was my problem but I have several friends that found the first was theirs. I think the same solution can work for both problems. A few years ago I started keeping little notes, well...you can imagine how well that worked out. LOL Little pieces of paper everywhere with no rhyme or reason to them. Then I decided that because I had a nice fabric stash that maybe that would help. Hey, how about making a journal to keep it all in? YEAH, a solution! I make all my notes in the journal and then I pin fabric or yarn samples I'm interested in there. I make sure and flip through it every day and also keep it close - it's amazing where the solution to some problem I was having with the mechanics of it all just happens to pop into my mind! That's why I think the journal situation would help ALL of us - because there IS no fear if you've taken the time to work out all the kinks and you can't lose focus if you keep all your ideas in one place. Tomorrow I'll be sharing a great tutorial I found for making YOUR journal!

Sunday Sewing Tip - How to bind a quilt

2011-08-07T09:28:00.003-05:00

One of the hardest things to decide when making a quilt is how to bind it. I actually discovered this method of binding a few years ago when I was making a quilted wallet. Here is an awesome tutorial from icandyhandmade along with some great pictures! The great thing is you can use this method for just about anything you're making that is quilted - wallets, walling hangings, bags, baby quilts...it's easy to do and makes a beautiful finished edge.

Binding a Quilt

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-08-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

New canvas handbags

2011-08-03T07:27:00.005-05:00

I've had a major obsession with handbags this year. As if you couldn't tell by the store right? Maybe that's why I've been so busy with custom orders this spring and summer, everyone else has been too. LOL

There are just so many fascinating techniques, styles and designs to put together. I've purchased a few patterns by inde designers - absolutely awesome, so talented and so far ahead of commercial patterns (which I hate and swore off for life)! I've learned new techniques and even how to think differently about tried and true things. I've also designed quite a few patterns for myself - these two new bags in the store are examples!

Check out the shop to see if there is a style just for you - remember, if you see a style you like but it isn't in your colors...use the contact me link right there in the listing. OR maybe you've been dreaming of that perfect bag for YOU. Type it out and send it to me using the contact me link and we'll see what we can do!

Tutorial Tuesday - Sock Cupcakes

2011-08-02T09:15:00.003-05:00

I don't know what it is about cupcakes (oh yes I do, LOL - I love to EAT cupcakes) but I am fascinated by all the neat things you can use to make crafty cupcakes. You can sew cupcake purses, you can knit cupcake hats, crochet cupcake purses and on and on and on. Well, here is a cute tutorial by she wears flowers on how to make a really cool cupcake gift with purchased socks,a handmade coffee cozy and a printable cupcake topper. Make sure to let her know how much you loved the tutorial!

Sock cupcake

Motivation Monday

2011-08-01T06:05:00.004-05:00

The biggest mistake people make in life is not making a living at doing what they most enjoy. - Malcolm S. Forbes

It can be difficult at times to have faith in yourself, enough faith to know that doing what you love will help you reap rewards. We just need to remember that the rewards are not always what we imagine - and they are most likely not what others imagine. We need to look at those rewards again when we're feeling down because they are there. We will sometimes just gloss over them when we allow society to define what our rewards should be.

Missouri Star Quilt Company - humor

2011-07-30T09:43:00.004-05:00

Even if you don't quilt you have to check out this fabric and quilting company. Make sure to click on the daily deal...even if you don't need the deal or even care about getting a deal...you need to read the little blurp with each one. Oh my...it has me in stitches every day. LOL I don't know who at the company writes these, but they need a huge pat on the back - a hooray - and a pay raise. Some pretty funny stuff there. What an awesome marketing technique, it has me visiting every day. And of course, if you visit you have to look around...right? LOL And looking around leads to...well, you know. And to think, I was driving out to my sister's house (in the boonies) and saw this ad on a huge giant billboard - another smart marketing move!

Make your own tortillas!

2011-07-29T07:23:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a great find for those of us who love once a month cooking! Because we've saved time having our meal pre - prepared for the most part, when we have a little extra time we can make these awesome fresh tortillas shared by Lynda over at Life on the Farmlet.

Making Tortillas, a step by step guide!

Thank you so much for sharing Lynda!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-07-28T07:22:00.000-05:00

Some great new clutches!

2011-07-27T09:00:00.002-05:00

Some pretty new clutches have been added to the store, you'll want to make sure and visit the store and check them out!

Tutorial Tuesday - Make your own slip and slide.

2011-07-26T06:20:00.001-05:00

Feeling the heat at your house too? It's been melting temps here for about a week and the natives are getting restless. lol So here is a great idea from Dianne over at The Inspired Housewife - Make your own SUPER slip and slide Make sure to let her know how much you enjoyed making one, and she has some other great ideas to share so check it out!

Motivation Monday

2011-07-25T05:19:00.001-05:00

Sewing mends the soul. - anon

Nothing more true than this. While I have sewn, knitted, crocheted, embroidered and cross stitched since I was very young - you know how it is when you are grown and oh so busy though. It pretty much was put aside while I thought I was too busy with life - when a husband, four children and jobs just took almost every little bit of energy I had. I admire the many women here in the blogosphere who can keep up with their craftiness through it all, I could never quite juggle it all. Yes, I did things here and there but not with any regularity. It wasn't until my husband was diagnosed with cancer ten years ago that the overwhelming need came back oh so strong. The day before his 14 hour surgery I dug out the crochet hooks, ran to the store for a big sack of yarn and dug out my project tote. I sat in that waiting room and crocheted half of a super size afghan in his favorite colors so he could be warm over the next few months - and so I coud at least attempt to stay sane, instead of just terrified and overwhelmed. And it didn't stop there, in fact it has yet to stop. My husband lives on now only in our memories and I am certain that the only reason I have survived up to this point is because of it. So, when you are feeling overwhelmed with life and what it is offering you - take a moment to dig deep and see if sewing can help mend your soul.

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-07-21T07:15:00.003-05:00

Tutorial Tuesday - DIY Giant Buttons

2011-07-19T08:03:00.000-05:00

As some of you know, I'm in the middle of trying to redo my studio area. This weekend I found the cutest tutorial to make Giant Buttons for the perfect wall art! It will be a few weeks before I have the time, but I wanted to make sure and share it with all of you in case you're in the mood for a project. I found the tutorial over at Ucreate by Guest Blogger Kami from No Biggie!

DIY Giant Buttons

Make sure to thank her for sharing this supper fun tutorial!

Motivation Monday

2011-07-18T07:50:00.000-05:00

Knitting is a boon for those of us who are easily bored. I take my knitting everywhere to take the edge off of moments that would otherwise drive me stark raving mad. ~Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much

Now, you KNOW it's true. LOL
It's a much safer place
because I carry mine with me.

Sunday Sewing Tip - Fabric Scraps

2011-07-17T08:55:00.000-05:00

Ashley, at Make It and Love It, has a special section for the beauty of fabric scraps and it's full of ideas and tutorials. What an awesome way to help us all out with just what to do with all those little leftovers. Don't make trash....make something and love it! Thanks so much for sharing Ashley!

Fabric Scraps - Trash or Treasure

Things that make you go hmmmm.....

2011-07-15T11:04:00.004-05:00

You REALLY have to wonder sometimes, just how much our culture really believes in "going green". Not only are HUGE vehicles still the choice regardless of how high gas prices go, the list could go on and on about our wasteful ways that we just refuse to change. Well, when one family decided they would take a "we have to tear up your yard to repair your sewer line" mess into something wonderful - a sustainable organic vegetable garden to feed their family - they are now being threatened with fines and time in jail by the city they reside in. Makes you hang your head in shame. I was over at GeekMom reading when I came upon the Bass' story. Check it out.

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-07-14T07:03:00.000-05:00

Tutorial Tuesday - Make a Tabletop Ironing Board

2011-07-12T08:18:00.000-05:00

I know ironing is not everyones favorite thing to do. BUT...if you need to do it occasionally and you don't really want to invest in a full ironing board (or if you're like me and need to iron quite a bit and would like something more portable) this wonderful tutorial by Ashley at lil blue boo is just what you need!

Make a Tabletop Ironing Board

Thanks for this great idea and tutorial Ashley!

Motivation Monday

2011-07-11T09:06:00.004-05:00

Well, we all know how exciting Mondays are...lol So I thought maybe we could all use a little story or motivational quote or word to help us get our week started out. So...here's the quote for today -

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company...a church...a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you...we are in chage of our ATTITUDES."
- Charles R. Swindoll

I wanted to make sure I shared how I could share this quote with you - the very first time I saw it was on my friend Shanna's blog. Thank you so much for sharing Shanna....and I'm SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-06-30T06:46:00.002-05:00

Tutorial Tuesday - Snap on Grommets

2011-06-28T06:19:00.000-05:00

Researching some new projects to do for my home I found this wonderful new product - Dritz HOME snap on grommets! WOW, just WOW! What a great new product and I can think of so many ways to use these in new tote and bag designs too - come on, like you didn't expect that?! hahaha

Here is a wonderful tutorial from Sew4Home on the best way to place and install them - How to use snap on grommets. Make sure to bookmark it or print out the pdf file for this tutorial, you'll want to make sure and keep it handy for future projects! Make sure to share it with your friends that like to decorate and say a great big thank you TO Sew4Home for sharing. I can't wait to get started on my project ideas.

Sunday Sewing Tip - Sewing Machine Feet

2011-06-26T05:17:00.001-05:00

One of the great things about sewing machines available now is all of the great feet that you can use to do wonderful things that make all our projects so much more easy and convenient to do. Make sure to read this wonderful guest post by Toyota Home Sewing on craftpassion.com about different machine feet. While this tutorial highlights the Toyota Sewing Machine brand in the UK, the knowledge transfers to all machines. Make sure to thank them for sharing this great information with all of us!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-06-23T07:45:00.000-05:00

Tutorial Tuesday - Picture Puzzle

2011-06-21T05:38:00.000-05:00

This past few months I've been super busy with personal things and custom store orders and I was having a difficult time coming up with a project for my granddaughters to do for their dad. So of course - Bing was my friend yet again! This is a great fun project that shouldn't be just for Father's Day projects - you and your children can have a fun time making these well, just because! And if you have a young puzzle lover they would make a great personalized gift.

Impress Your Kids Picture Puzzle Tutorial

All you'll need is a few things you just might already have around and OFF YOU GO to some fun puzzle crafting! Make sure to say a great big THANK YOU to Impress Your Kids for sharing this tutorial!

Sunday Sewing Tip - Folding Fabric

2011-06-19T06:15:00.001-05:00

For those of us who love to sew, you know what a problem fabric can end up being.

Just a few of our obsessions:
We have to stop and take a peek anywhere there might be fabric to buy.
We need to have a stash of "just in case I might need this" fabrics.
We never have enough space.

I've found a great tutorial to share that is really helping me get my workshop in order. Really pretty sad that this never occured to me before. hahaha DUH.

Turning*Turning's Tutorial on Folding Fabric

Make sure to thank her for sharing!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-06-16T07:42:00.000-05:00

More Summer Time Store Goodness!

2011-06-15T08:37:00.000-05:00

I just LOVE summer! And the weather has been so springy here temperature wise, not hot summery at all - 70 & low 80's - PERFECT. Make sure to check out the store button to your left to see where the inspiration has led me! Here's a sneak peak!

Tutorial Tuesday - Sun Hat

2011-06-14T07:18:00.000-05:00

I've been searching for something to make my mom for her birthday, she's pretty practical and just simply doesn't need anything that isn't functional. She has some acres in Alabama that they live and work on - so this is a PERFECT solution for a great practical gift that is FUN too!

Lorenna Buck: For Mom: "UPDATE: You can now download this pattern here Mother's Day is approaching and my mother already has her gift in hand. It's a sun hat! ..."

Make sure to check out Lorenna's blog and give her a shout out thank you for being so kind to share this tutorial!

Sunday Sewing Tip

2011-06-12T08:28:00.001-05:00

One of the most important things when you are sewing...pressing. I know that some of you don't like those extra steps, but me - I love to press! I like the crispness of how it makes the item you're constructing look. Maybe it just makes your item more professional looking, and you can really begin to see what your finished item will look like as you are working. This article from Threads is a big help when trying to decide about pressing cloths! They really help keeping the surfaces of your finished item in perfect condition.

Guide to Press Cloths - Threads

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-06-09T08:26:00.000-05:00

It's SUMMER Tote TIME!

2011-06-08T07:21:00.000-05:00

Yippee! Make sure to click the store button to your left and check out the totes and handbag section for more new styles that I promised! Here's a sneak peak...

Remember, don't see the tote or handbag you're looking for? Use the CONTACT ME link in each listing in the About Me area and tell me what you're searching for.

Tutorial Tuesday - Rick Rack Roses

2011-06-07T08:44:00.002-05:00

I got my hands on some pretty vintage rick rack a few days ago and was "binging" around trying to find something unique to do with and stumbled upon this awesome

Rick Rack Roses Tutorial.

I think they will make some pretty embellishments for handbags and also for my granddaughters summer dresses and headbands!

Make sure to thank Janet for sharing this great tutorial!

Sunday Sewing Tip

2011-06-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

One of the things that I think most of us can get the most frustrated about....thread tension on our sewing machine. Here is a great fact reference from Threads Magazine that will REALLY help you out! You might even want to print this article out and keep it with your machine, and make sure to check out the rest of the site for a ton more sewing information.

Understanding Thread Tension - Threads

Once a Month Cooking

2011-06-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

While stumbling around the net one day...I think I was actually looking for a tutorial on putting in an inset zipper, which I NEVER FOUND and had to just wing it...grrrrr... I found this really great OAM type recipe for breakfast sandwiches. Make sure to check out Crystal's McMom's Breakfast Sandwiches for the freezer from her The Family Homestead site. She has a very nice freezer cooking with meal starters E-Book for sale on her site you'll want to take a look at - in this economy you couldn't ASK for better information on how to keep your food budget in line and to keep you away from convenience foods and take out! This is a little bit different from traditional Once a Month Cooking as these are "mixes" that you can use to make a variety of meals with!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-06-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Bags and Totes Available

2011-06-01T08:32:00.003-05:00

Make sure to click the store button to your left and check out all the new bags and totes available - remember, if you like a style but not the color scheme and would like to customize to your color preference make sure to use the CONTACT link in the listing!

Tutorial Tuesday - DIY Adjustable Waistband

2011-05-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Wow, I wish I would have had this tutorial when my four were small - but since I didn't I just did the usual clunky darts to make their pants fit. Thank heavens Tricia at Leafy Treetop Spot shared her talents with all of us for this tutorial! While I obviously no longer need this info for my four grown ones - it's awesome information for my granddaughters. They're pretty excited that grandma can help them not have droppy drawers now. LOL Make sure to tell Tricia thank you, and make sure to check out all the other great things she has on her blog! She is one talented young woman.

DIY Adjustable Waistband

Tutorial Tuesday - Easter Wreath

2011-03-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm always searching for fun ideas for holiday themed projects - with two granddaughters, we need something to make or pretty up our surroundings to celebrate. I just rounded up all the supplies for this great wreath posted over at Chica and Jo ! The supply list isn't too long and if you're careful shopping you can make it for between $10-$12, even less if you're like me and already had some of the supplies in your stash and know where to look for bargains. (For examples -the 50 clothespins can be found for just $1, use old wire hangers to make your own wire wreath frame and use the same fabric you use for the clothespins to make your bow!) We'll be working on it this week. Make sure to check out the tutorial, it's a fun project and you can use the wreath every year for Easter. Make sure to comment and let Chica and Jo know if you like the project!

Easter Wreath w/clothespins

A Sew Along for Japan!

2011-03-23T12:40:00.002-05:00

My friend Twyla over at Sweet as Steel blogged about a wonderful sew along opportunity - make sure to check it out! THANK YOU for sharing the information Twyla!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-03-17T06:28:00.002-05:00

NEW Spring Items available in the Store!

2011-03-16T12:27:00.006-05:00

YIPPEE, Spring is here! Grass is getting green, the birds are all back, the sun is shining and buds are peaking out everywhere. I've been checking out the Pantone most popular colors for Spring and Summer 2011 and they've been inspiring some great new Spring products. Make sure to click the Store button to your left every week as new items are added. You're sure to find something that will make you feel HAPPY this season! Here are a few items using the lavender shades. The Lavender Handbag The Reuseable Grocery Tote (this actually uses a fabric with a combination of Pantone popular colors!)

Tutorial Tuesday

2011-03-15T13:12:00.003-05:00

I'm always on the search for cute teacher/friends/kids gifty ideas. Over at she wears flowers check out this fun tutorial for a sock cupcake!

Her blog has just loads of great ideas, so make sure to look around and thank her for sharing.

2011-03-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

Yes, I know it seems like the deadline has passed...and it almost has. BUT, Vanessa at LBG Studio FAQ's say -

Is there a deadline to mail the dresses in?
Nope. The charity accepts donations year round! The only deadline involved with the sew-a-long is Wednesday, March 16th, which is when entries for the giveaway close.

So, if you want to get in on the sew-a-long and giveaway - you'd better get busy! But don't give up if you can't make it by the dealine because this is an awesome idea for just ANYTIME! I'm getting on the phone and setting up a sewing party, I won't be able to meet the deadline for the sew-a-long prizes but we'll have dresses shipping by mid April. Why don't you get your friends together for a fun sewing party too? A great excuse to have a party, visit with your friends, have great snacks AND help dress little girls around the world!

THANK YOU Vanessa for hosting the sew-a-long and for sharing the information about this awesome charity!

Thousand Word Thursday

2011-03-10T06:32:00.002-06:00

Breakfast scarfs and SPRINGTIME!

2011-03-09T08:44:00.006-06:00

Make sure to click the STORE link to your left and check out the fun new items added to the store. Great new bags for Spring...

and if you're a breakfast fan, check out this fun novelty scarf!

Tutorial Tuesday - Milestone Birthday Idea!

2011-03-08T08:35:00.000-06:00

I seem to have a lot of friends and family that are hitting milestone birthdays over the next year - here is an AWESOME and easy tutorial from Did Someone Say Party . It can easily be changed for ANY milestone birthday! Make sure to thank her for sharing this great idea! I've already made one and plan on making many more this year.

40 Rocks!

Anniversary Contest Winners!

2011-03-01T08:52:00.005-06:00

I'm so excited to post the Anniversary Contest Winners! I have to tell you, I don't really do the high tech thing here for deciding who wins - I just use raffle tickets (you know, the old kind on a great big roll), write people's names on them and then put them in a plastic bucket and have my granddaughter draw out the winners. LOL Since there were 5 different contest with multiple entries for each contest it took a bit. I also wanted to double and triple check so no entries were missed!

SO.....drum roll please....

Anniversary Contest 1 WINNER

Snowman Slippers - Terry

Anniversary Contest 2 WINNER

Clutch w/removeable strap - Laura

(make sure to check out her blog Whimsical Charms)

Anniversary Contest 3 WINNER

Coffee Time Tote - Jeanette

Anniversary Contest 4 WINNER

Cotton Scrubbie Bath Set - Shanna

(make sure to check out her blog The Journey Continues)

A little explanation for this contest and winner. Obviously - not many people who heard about the contest twitter...LOL...so after drawing for Contest Winners 1,2,3 &5 all the entries for each contest that weren't drawn were put back in the bucket and a winner for Contest 4 was drawn!

Anniversary Contest 5 WINNER

$10 Gift Certificate for Candejo's Creations - Jessica

THANK YOU for everyone who entered! Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with your shipping information - I am excited that I will be shipping out goodies to the winners this week!

5th Anniversary Contest - 5th of 5!

2011-02-23T11:06:00.004-06:00

It's free for one winner!!
If you follow these simple steps you just might be the winner!

5th Anniversary Contest!
An awesome chance for you to win a $10 Gift Certificate for the store!

Register on the BoB Auction site - http://www.bobauction.com/index.php
Doesn't mean you have to purchase OR sell there,
but you can if you want to - now or in the future!
Kim and Laura have some great items listed in their stores too!

AND/OR

If you've registered previously and made a purchase from a seller there:
log in
go to your member area
click on reputation (feedback)
click on leave comments
you'll see a list of purchases or sales you've made
Hit proceed to leave reputation (feedback) for any purchases or sales
(1 entry for each)

AND/OR

Look through current items available or through sold items
(You can click view reputation in my store to find links to items I've previously sold)
Find an item you like and tell me what you like about it or what you would change about it -
or make a suggestion for a NEW ITEM you would like to see!
(1 entry for each)

Let me know which ones you choose to do in the email you send me. One entry into the drawing for each one you do - Limitlesspossible entries!
Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with the information.

5th Anniversary Contest - 4th of 5!

2011-02-22T06:42:00.004-06:00

Yes, It's free for one winner!!
If you follow these simple steps it could be YOU!

An awesome chance for you to win a Cotton Scrubbie Bath Set!

Use the Share Link to Twitter at the bottom of this post
about this contest to share it with your Twitter followers

AND/OR

Use the Share Link to Twitter on any post
you like to share it with your Twitter followers -
I have several free patterns there you could share if you'd like!

Let me know which ones you choose to do in the email you send me.

One entry into the drawing for each one you do - 2 possible entries!
Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with the information.

5th Anniversary Contest, 3rd of 5!

2011-02-21T10:08:00.004-06:00

Yes, It's free for one winner!!

If you follow these simple steps it could be YOU!

5th Anniversary Contest!

Super chance for you to win a Coffee Time Tote!

Like my Candejo's Creations Facebook page

AND/OR

if you already like the page….

Post a Happy 5th Anniversary on the wall

AND/OR

Post a picture of your happy feet in Magic Slippers
or with any other item you've purchased from the store!

AND/OR
Share the page with your friends

AND/OR
Write a review

Let me know which ones you choose to do in the email you send me. If you look to the left here on my blog you'll find the Facebook page link!

One entry into the drawing for each one you do - 5possible entries!

Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with the information.

5th Anniversary Contest, 2nd of 5!

2011-02-17T11:34:00.006-06:00

2nd of 5
5th Anniversary Contest!

An awesome chance for you to win a Clutch w/removable wrist strap!

Follow my blog

AND/OR if you already do….

Pick a blog entry and comment on it.

AND/OR

If you have a blog, post a link to the anniversary contests or write a review of an item you’ve purchased from the shop!

Let me know which one you choose to do in the email you send me. Here's my blog! ------> Candejo's Creations Blog (Obviously you're already here LOL)

One entry into the drawing for each one you do - 3 possible entries! Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with the information.

5th Anniversary Contest - 1st of 5!

2011-02-16T11:09:00.008-06:00

Can you believe it, Five YEARS already! Thank you so much for all your support - I so enjoy making things that I know are so loved in their new homes. There are very special contests going on the next week - do you know about it yet?

1st of 5 - 5th Anniversary Contest!

An awesome chance for you to win a pair of Snowman Magic Slippers!

Find a picture of little feet in five different listings in my store.

Find all five & include the name of the auctions in the email you send me.

Here's where you need to search! ----> Candejo's Creations

One entry into the drawing for each little feet you find - 5 possible entries!

Send me an email using this CONTACT ME link with the information!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T18:00:00.001-06:00

May your 2011 be filled with blessings.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-25T06:06:00.002-06:00

May your day be joyful and your heart full!

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-11-30T06:10:00.000-06:00

I know it's too late this year - but you will want to file this away for next year! Jessica, at Craftily Ever After, shared this quick and easy cookie treat, make sure to thank her! I've made a similar cookie for my youngest daughter and my granddaughter's parties - use the same cookie but use Hershey kisses and they are witches hats!

Craftily Ever After: Pilgrim Hat Cookies: "My go-to treat in October is Witch Hat cookies. In November, it's Pilgrim-Hat cookies! I first saw this idea a few years ago at Woman's ..."

Once a Month Cooking - Recipe for Meatballs

2010-11-26T16:37:00.000-06:00

This is one of my favorite OAMC recipes. Lower calorie and so MANY uses. Can be added to Spaghetti, sandwiches, soups, etc. or just eaten on their own!

2 lb. 90% lean ground beef, 2lb ground white meat turkey
1 cup fine dry bread crumbs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 medium onion, diced
4 eggs
4 tablespoons water

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In large bowl, mix all ingredients. Shape meat mixture into 1 ½ to 2 inch balls.
Place meatballs on un-greased baking pans. Brown meatballs for approx. 15 minutes or until done. Let meatballs cool. Place meatballs on a baking sheet and flash freeze. Then place a meatball serving size for your family in ziptop bag, label, and freeze.

To Serve: Remove from packaging and added to sauce or recipe and heat.

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-11-25T15:19:00.001-06:00

2010-11-24T07:29:00.004-06:00

There is nothing more special than giving a handmade gift picked out especially for someone and watching their delight when they open it! This week you have the opportunity to find that perfect handmade gift AND SAVE $$$$$ with

The Early Bird Gets the Worm Holiday Sale!

November 23, 2010 - November 29, 2010
20% OFF EVERY listing
Combined shipping will also apply to save you even more $$$$!
Over 100 listings so far and more listings will be added throughout the week!
Shop all week and paypal billing won't be sent out until Wed. Dec. 1!
<------ Just click the STORE button over on the left to check it out!

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-11-23T13:00:00.005-06:00

Yes, I've been gone...forever. LOL Sometimes life just gets SO busy doesn't it? Between kids, grand kids, work, and the holidays coming it's been crazy. But I wanted to make sure I shared this really awesome tutorial I found, I'm using it to make the granddaughters some dresses. I know everyone is always looking for ideas for little girls, so here you go. Make sure to thank Kari at UCreate for hosting this great guest tutorial and Lindsay at the Cottage Home for creating it!

Party Dress Tutorial

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-10-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Beautiful felted pins

2010-10-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

Make sure to check out the beautiful felted pins available in the store. This stunning felted wool flower brooch/pin was hand knit with 100% Peruvian Highland wool. After knitting, the piece is machine felted and then cut and hand sewn into the flower. This flower is in ivory and buttercup with sage green leaves
with a sturdy locking brooch pin sewn on the back. Pin can be pinned on a hat, jacket, coat, purse, scarf or sweater. Make sure to click on over!

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-10-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month so here's a tutorial that is perfect for a community service project or to make for a friend who's receiving treatment. The “Anti-Ouch Pouch” was designed by Deon Maas and is dedicated to her mother, Doris Lock, who taught her to sew. Both women are breast cancer survivors and members of the American Sewing Guild.

Anti-Ouch Pouch

Letter from a fellow blogger Mom Vicky

2010-10-04T10:12:00.004-05:00

I feel compelled to share this letter from Vicky that was posted on her blog. After you read it, share it. This is definitely a post to ALL our children, and it should go viral. Print it out. Give it to your children to read then have a dicussion with your children. Yes, it can be difficult - but with our busy lives..well, we need to make sure they are reminded. Give them a hug, make sure they know you love them no matter what. Thank you Vicky, for sharing such a personal letter with all of us.

Vicky Bell's Blog: Letter to my daughter ( in the wake of senseless t...: "Hello my girl, I wanted to say hi and tell you how much I miss you and that I hope your classes are going well and that you are having fun ..."

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-09-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Brrrrrr...it's getting colder

2010-09-29T22:13:00.003-05:00

Wow, what a change in weather patterns here in the Midwest. It's definitely fall here. Make sure to click on over to the store and check out the new fall/winter items available! Here's a hint....

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-09-28T22:06:00.000-05:00

My friend Twyla at Sweet as Steel has a really cute tutorial to share this week!

Monster Eye Hair Clip It's a fun thing to make for all the little girls in your world - thank you so much for sharing Twyla!

Sunday Sewing Tip

2010-09-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

I've been brushing up on my sewing skills because September is National Sewing Month! Here's the site I've found to be the absolute best when you're unsure of a techniques or need "how to do" help, hopefully it can help you too.

Sewing.org

Make sure to look over to the top left, click on Guidelines for Sewing, there is an absolute wealth of information there!

Make sure to check out http://www.nationalsewingmonth.org for some great information too!

Happy Sewing!

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-09-23T06:45:00.001-05:00

A great time of year for totes!

2010-09-22T11:43:00.002-05:00

Don't you find that this time of year is perfect for totes? Busy busy days...at work, play, or school. Make sure to check out the shop for some pretty ones available.

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-09-21T08:20:00.001-05:00

I'm always on the hunt for new crafty ideas for my granddaughter. So the day I found this blog post I was looking for ideas on how to help her learn to sew. She's always so delighted when she can watch what I'm making. This is a great idea, I'm so happy that mini-eco shared her talents with all of us!

mini-eco's Printable Sewing Cards

Just too cute! I hope you have fun printing them for your children/grandchildren!

Sunday Sewing Tip - How to Make Your Own Piping

2010-09-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

Of course now that we've learned how to make our own bias tape, you will want to have matching piping. LOL See what I mean, I tell you - it's a sickness. Again there are tons of U-tube videos and tutorials available but this is the one I used to re-familiarize myself with the technique.

How to make your own piping

I will never purchase ready made piping again, it's just to much fun to make whatever you want from home! The picture here is an example of a project in the store where I used custom made piping. If you like, click over to the store and look in the purse category to see even more details!

Happy sewing,

Saturday Silliness

2010-09-18T08:56:00.000-05:00

Have you ever come across a post on an internet forum that just sent you into hysterical giggling fits? I was reading a forum of small business owners and they were talking about dealing with bridezillas. There were some great one liners I'd like to remember - there were many but some were more personal to individual situations so I'm not including all of them.

******

A friend's mom used to say this to me all the time when someone would act less than polite: "Dear, no matter how hard you try, you simply can't put polish on a sneaker".

*****

If you can't be a shining example, at least be a dire warning.

****

(While this was was personal I just couldn't pass up sharing it. LOL)
I used to play the pipe organ for weddings, and had bridezilla be a total b---h during the rehearsal. It went on for 2 hours! Then the best man walked over to me and asked if he could pay me $500 to play "Another One Bites the Dust"! I got laughing so hard I nearly fell off the bench. SOooooo tempting!

****

Kind of scary, isn't it. LOL You have to wonder how they are to their future husband and families. I think we need to remember what weddings are really supposed to be about.

Once a Month cooking

2010-09-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

Once a Month Cooking World is a great site for anyone who would like to learn how to make their life easier in the meal department. I've found it not only guarantees we eat healthier but that we aren't tempted by convenience foods. It may seem difficult to get started, but just take it in small steps if you feel overwhelmed. It helped a lot with my monthly food budget too! Let me know if you try it, or find a favorite recipe. I'll be sharing some of mine in the coming months, one thing I've discovered is how easy it is to convert your favorites into this cooking style!

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-09-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

New Fall and Winter Items added to the Shop!

2010-09-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

If you have a minute make to sure to click on over to the shop and check out the new fall/winter cardigans available for the chilly weather fast approaching! Here's a hint...

Tutorial Tuesday

2010-09-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

I'm always searching for teacher, friend and sister quick and cute gifts. I love to give gifts just because and this is a great idea from Fireflies and Jellybeans!

Welcome Back to School Teacher Gift

Have fun creating and personalizing your favorite one!

Sunday Sewing Tip - Bias Tape

2010-09-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

My friend Twyla and I were discussing our love hate relationship with bias tape. She's found a great project, but you guessed it - LOTS of bias tape necessary. And of course we all know how hard it is to find some that actually matches our project. So a few years ago, I went on a quest on the Internet to learn how to make my own. Yes, there are a ton of tutorials and u-tube videos available - but this is my favorite one.

How to make your own bias tape

And to go along with it, if you want an extra little tip that makes this whole process even easier make sure to check out this tutorial from Creative Little Daisy!

DIY Version of a Bias Tape Maker

I can bet you're just as excited as me to get working on your next project that needs bias tape. And DIY bias tape is much easier to work with!

Happy Sewing!

ReDux: Once a Month Cooking

2010-09-10T18:04:00.002-05:00

We're almost to that time of year again! YEAH!

Candejo's Creations: Once a Month Cooking: "Thank heavens for sisters. As you can tell by my absence, I've been super busy with special orders and new project..."

Thousand Word Thursday

2010-09-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

New Fall and Winter Items in the Shop!

2010-09-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you have a minute make to sure to click on over to the shop and check out the new fall/winter accessories available - I almost dread saying it, but that chilly weather is coming. But I do love to knit and crochet. Here's a hint...

Tutorial Tuesday!

2010-09-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Every Tuesday I'll be sharing an original tutorial or sharing a tutorial for you to link up with from all the talented people out in the www. Today, I'm sharing a really awesome link to a chef's hat that I'll be making for my granddaughter Emma's birthday. Along with this super cute hat I'll be adding a handmade apron and cookbook. Emma and I have spent the summer cooking and baking things together - SO MUCH FUN! I've typed up our recipes and put them in her very own cookbook. I know she'll be excited, because she's asked several times for a chef's hat.

SO....
here's the link, hopefully you'll have someone you can make one for to make their day! Chef's Hat Tutorial by CurlyPops I'll be back in mid October to add a picture to this post of the birthday package.

Happy sewing,

Labor Day

2010-09-06T08:02:00.001-05:00

Many of us look at it as the last hooray long weekend before cooler weather but it really has an interesting history.

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of our country. The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, l883. In l884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a "workingmen's holiday" on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in l885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.

If you have the time, you should "bing" it and read all about this holiday - it's quite an interesting story about a day of celebration for ALL OF US!

Sunday is for Sewing Tips

2010-09-05T06:48:00.003-05:00

Yes, you read that right. Every Sunday (but not this one, LOL) I will try and post a sewing tip. You know, those things we suddenly discover after years of doing something the most difficult way possible?! So be sure to tune in next Sunday!