Today I am going to show you how to cover a bench with fabric, and share an inspiring example done by my dear friend Deb! Typically if a project involves a tool other than my sewing machine I am somewhat intimidated. This project does involve a...
Welcome to my current dessert obsession. I call them, Healthy Oatmeal Bars with Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt. This recipe is a healthy re-creation of my all-time favorite childhood dessert. The old recipe was delicious yes, but full of sugar. So of course, I loved them....
This Spinach Quiche with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition! It's comforting, savory, and creamy. You will love it! Change up the flavors easily, based on your tastes or the ingredients you already have in the fridge! Choose to go without a crust,...
This delicious Chantilly Cake with Raspberry Mousse recipe has three vanilla layers and a creamy mousse filling. It's iced with a chantilly cream frosting, then layered and topped with fresh berries! Chantilly Cake Copycat Recipe Years ago, when we first were married, my husband's family would purchase...
Things are opening up again and it is time, at last, to gather. Yahoo! With birthdays to celebrate, I hosted a few of my BFFs for a Springtime Lunch with Friends. We are a casual bunch, so I didn't go crazy, but it had been so...
Today I am excited to share the beautiful iced and embellished artwork of Tuyen Nguyen (pronounced Twin). Tuyen owns La Petite Celebrations in Minnesota and is known for her beautiful custom sweets and treats. After trying my hand at royal icing and decorating sugar cookies back...
Today I've selected a collection of bracelet gift ideas for women, that are perfect for Mother's Day! Warning, you may find something for yourself in the process.😁 If you would prefer to make your own personalized bracelets, check out this post, Personalized Bracelet Ideas HERE Monogram Bracelets All...
Mother's Day is May 9th this year, and it's never too early to start thinking of gifts! I have DIY personalized bracelet ideas to get you started. Gifts should not be limited by biology. It's a wonderful day to honor all the exceptional women in your...
Meet Jennifer Paganelli: artist, author, and magician of color. And those are only a few of the inspiring gifts she shares with the world. Jennifer's body of work is saturated with vivid color and hues of happiness. Her career spans decades and is filled with books,...
Hello friends. Happy Spring! If you've ever wondered how to make a purse, today is your lucky day.😁 We're making a baguette-style bag! Have you seen ALL the versions online? There's something for everyone; plain leather, straw, and even embellished. The styles with mixed materials are...
Again, this month I am excited to showcase Vintage Inspired Hand Made Decor by Laura Kennedy; AKA Esther and Irene. Laura and I first met when our sons were in kindergarten together some 15 years ago. Little did I know how many things we had in common!...
Happy Easter Gnome Fans! My talented and dear friend, Ruth is back at it this year, creating even more cuteness. Here are more adorable spring gnome ideas! The Easter bunny gnomes are off the charts. Learn how to make one for yourself with this brand new Easter...
Hello friends, today I have custom Easter basket ideas and a tutorial to inspire you to create something special this holiday. I love Easter time. The special preparations, family gatherings, favorite church hymns, and the beautiful spring colors. All of it reminds me of my sweet Mom...
Today I made a really tiny cake (6 inches in diameter) that's delicious and healthy too; Keto Pound Cake with Whipped Cream. If cakes make a celebration special, a homemade cake takes it to the next level. It shows your guests they are important and that...
Are you ready to try your hand at sewing clothes? I've got some simple skirt designs and lots of pattern inspiration for you today! Let's make a colorful DIY Skirt - mine is Simplicity pattern number 8300. There is something for every shape and size. If you...
This post is fun for me in every way. First of all, this is my happy salad! Zoodles with Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce is bursting with flavor. I could drink it. Well, maybe not drink… but surely over-pour. The zoodles (zucchini noodles) just take it to...
Today's little project is perfect for adding a touch of personality to baskets or containers in any room of your house. Come along and learn how to make a DIY basket liner. Okay, so I may have too many baskets in my house. I guess I...
Hi Friends! Join me for today's sewing project and be inspired to create something for yourself! I'll be making a linen DIY tie front blouse using Simplicity Pattern D0890 (or 8601). But first, I have a question for you. When sewing, which do you buy first;...
For my sewing project today, I used a wrap skirt pattern - vintage Vogue 8338 to sew this flowery, feminine number. Vintage, meaning I bought it years ago probably at JoAnn Fabrics, not at an antique store. I just love wrap skirts. I love how they...
Purses are such a personal thing. The size, the fabric, the color, etc. That's why it's so fun to make your own and create it just the way you want. Come along and make a DIY camo crossbody bag with me, won't you? Be brave and...
Modern Urban Barn Space - Hinshon Farms. An unexpected gem in my neighborhood, that we all get to enjoy every time we pass by. It was not always this way though. Ten years ago it was a property in need of major TLC. Fortunately, at the same...
Hey gang, here's a fun recipe to fool your not-so-healthy-food-loving kids or spouse. If that's a thing in your world? This healthy chocolate and banana protein shake recipe is really delicious and no one will ever guess how clean and healthy it is. I love to...
Learn how to make a graphic t-shirt with Cricut. I have t-shirt ideas & a beginner tutorial too.🎉 If you are a new Cricut user who wants to make a t-shirt or you just need a quick refresher, you've come to the right place! How to Use...
Delicious Dumpling Dipping Sauce. How do you like that alliteration? Prepare to tuck this recipe away; Harry's Delicious Dumpling Dipping Sauce is a keeper. Say that five times, fast. This secret sauce has an exceptional flavor, one taste, and I promise you'll be sold. Authentic Chinese Recipes If...
Dave's Chinese pork dumpling recipe is not just an appetizer. Oh no, it's so good, it's what's for dinner! I have always been an appetizer girl. As far back as I can remember. It was a really "special" occasion when my Mom bought pizza rolls for...
This seems to be the year of the GNOME. They are everywhere you turn, and they are in every size, every shape, and every style! Come along for today's creative challenge, as I show how to make easy DIY gnomes. Inspired by all the cuteness, my...
Greetings, fellow food fans! Today, I bring you Dave's (Zhengzheng) delicious Chinese Chicken and Potato Stew recipe. This dish is hugely popular in our kitchen. When Dave visits on college breaks and wants to cook, this dish is at the top of our list. It's so...
I originally created this post in March 2020, but alas, it is still relevant. Follow along to learn how to make a fabric face mask. Fortunately there are many masks now widely available! If you still are making masks or interested in trying, this design is...
Do you have an old chair that is in good shape but the cushion is not? No worries, it's an easy fix! Stay tuned. Today I am going to show you how to make a cushion cover for a chair. If you have an antique chair...
Cushions lend a touch of personality, color, and comfort to a room. Learn how to make chair or bar stool cushions. It is an easy and wonderful accessory for your home. And your backside!😃 We all love Pottery Barn. Most times I walk away with inspiration...
Why do I feel the need to decorate cookies for every holiday? Sounds like a delicious problem to have.😁 Time to celebrate Valentine's Day with the best cut out sugar cookies! I know you will enjoy making and decorating them as much as eating them. Royal Icing...
Decorating cookies is such a happy and enjoyable experience for me. Using this Royal Icing Frosting Recipe is definitely one secret weapon for success! It's yummy, plus it has a smooth and beautiful texture. It's very flexible and forgiving. You can use it to edge your...
I am forever on the hunt for a delicious, healthy, sugar cookie recipe. I think I found it! These Gluten-Free Decorated Cookies for Valentine's Day are my new roll out, cut out cookie favorites. My perfect cookie is gluten-free, without refined sugar and the guilt that comes...
Meet Lucia. My friend, neighbor, and young craft phenom! Come along as she walks us through how to needle felt - a beginners tutorial. Lucia reminds me of myself (but better) at her age. I'd like to believe if I had grown up with the plethora...
Hello friends! Welcome to the second installment in my series on organizing your craft room or space. Craft Room Storage Ideas – Part 2! To read Part One, click HERE This edition is definitely not as fancy because I am going to talk about short and long-term...
I finally found a chocolate chip cookie recipe that loves me back. Keep reading to discover Alex's Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe. I'm confident you’ll love these cookies too! Delicious flavor, with a wonderful texture that is lightly crisp on the outside and chewy on the...
Today's project is the perfect Valentine gift for your favorite kiddo(s)! Learn how to make a DIY Child Apron with a free pattern guide. Aprons encourage all kids to enjoy the kitchen. I learned this when my son was young. He didn't have a big interest...
Full disclosure. I actually started this personalized pillowcase DIY project years ago for a sweet young family member. But life was super busy, working full time, taking care of family, and raising a teenager. Maybe you can relate? I ended up tucking it away. Now, this...
Hello friends! Today, I have some basic organizing inspiration for you. Join me and tidy up your space too! Here's the first installment in my series, "Craft Room Ideas for Organization - Part 1". Are you up for a challenge? (To read Part 2, click...
It's back to sewing basics today. Learn how to make a DIY envelope pillow cover. This is great for beginners because it is the easiest and fastest way to make a handmade pillow cover! Pillow with Flange Trim tutorial HERE Envelope Style Pillow Inspiration The envelope pillow style can stand...
There is a project that I put off for years, much to the dismay of my patient husband. A cushion cover for a 9-foot window seat in my office. Finally, I came up with a shortcut to make it easier, quicker, and less expensive. Introducing...
With Valentine's Day fast approaching, I want to share a handmade gift idea for a special person in your life. Learn how to make this easy DIY photo frame! I've seen variations of this frame for sale in the past and I always thought it would...
Hello Friends! Follow along with these simple instructions to make DIY pillow covers that give your room an instant upgrade! Today I'm sharing a super-easy way to create and sew pillowcases or cushion covers that look store-bought and a bit more tailored than your basic envelope-style...
When our Chinese friends are cooking, I go into spectator mode. Many of their Asian recipes are new to me and a little intimidating! However, after always asking them to make their delicious Chinese Lo Mein Noodles Recipe, they finally encouraged me to make it...
Hello there! It's been a while since my first face mask post, and I never dreamed we would still be needing them this long. Sigh. So, I've decided to try a different design. Below is an easy tutorial for how to make a DIY fabric...
Today's recipe is inspired by a nut butter that I'd heard about and had to try from Manna Organics. Oh my goodness. It's amazing! Seriously addicting. When I found myself going back to the jar for the second, third and fourth time, I decided I...
Nothing pulls together a space like fabrics; from upholstery to pillows, drapes, or cushions. Today I will show you how to make a DIY bench cushion cover with custom piping. If you can't find exactly what you are looking for or you don't want the high...
If you love your pet as much as we love ours, hopefully, this project doesn't seem quite as silly. Raise your pet's fashion quota with this DIY dog bandana. I would do just about anything for my puppy even dress her up a little. Works equally...
After a recent plant fail, Crazy Aunt Patty showed me a creative and inexpensive way to make a custom, artificial plant arrangement. Let me show you what Patty showed me; how to DIY fake plant decor. I do love a beautiful landscape, gorgeous flowers, and healthy...
I have had my fair share of baking issues. Am I alone on this or, can you relate? After a little research, I created a shortlist of helpful reminders. Learn how to make your cookies better with these simple tips and tricks. 1 Before you Begin,...
I first fell in love with graham cracker crusts as a kid. My Mom let me buy a paperback cookbook from a scholastic book sale at school, a rare occasion! I treasured that book and made everything in it, but my favorite was an ice...
These deliciously sweet and salty protein bites are on current rotation in my kitchen. Long-term rotation actually. Why? Super healthy, delicious, crave control! Need I say more? Protein Snack Idea Each protein ball is loaded with ALL the good stuff but quick and easy to make because...
Happy New Year Friends! Here's one more look back at the blog before we move on! It's a review of the 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2020. Again, I want to say a huge thanks for following along. I love creating this blog and hearing from...
Happy New Year Friends! I’ve been working on my new year’s intentions this week, as one does this time of year, and the graphic designer in me needed a pretty and organized format to do so. It’s a blessing and a curse. Today I am sharing...
The New Year is almost here! I thought it would be fun to take a quick review of the 10 Most Popular Projects of 2020 from the blog. Before we get started, I want to say a big thank you for following along. It’s so fun...
I have been ginger cookie obsessed this season! This is a late-breaking life situation; I didn't grow up with ginger cookies of any kind but was inspired by a store-bought variety in recent years. As a result, now I can't stop. I've been making and tweaking...
If you are celebrating something a banner is a perfect way to showcase your enthusiasm! Today I have DIY banner ideas for you that can work for any occasion, big or small. I promise you will enjoy creating this festive craft banner. Bonus, it is made...
Are you gift shopping? I'm here to help. Keep reading for some great gift ideas for teenage girls! If you have teen girls on your list I've prepared this holiday gift guide with assistance from a teenage shopping expert. I've got other guides too, just click...
The holidays are synonymous with visiting or visitors. As a guest, I am always taking mental notes of wonderfully welcoming guest room ideas so that I can return the favor someday in my home. To help jog my memory and help yours too, I've created...
Happy Holidays! Today I am sharing a most delightful confection; Suzi’s Toffee Popcorn with Chocolate Drizzle recipe. Stick around because you are going to love it. Maybe too much. Suzi was my next-door neighbor for 15 years. They were the cherished years as our children were...
Hello friends! Here's some quick Christmas table setting ideas and inspiration for you, just in time for your holiday meals. Welcome to Jenny's table. Jenny and I go way back to high school. She's beautiful inside and out, and so is her Christmas table. It's...
Happy December Friends! Today's project is easy-peasy but loaded with potential. It's a very easy, no-sew way to make your very own DIY Christmas pillow covers. My examples are pretty tame, to be honest, but at the bottom of the post, I show some additional inspiration...
Here’s a holiday decorating idea that's quick, super simple, and very inexpensive. Keep reading to learn how to make a bow for a Christmas tree. There never seems to be a shortage of things to purchase or collect to put on your Christmas tree, but this one...
Hello friends! Todays' post is specifically about gift ideas for the baker in your life. This is a great fit for a creative friend, child, or teenager who enjoys baking. Most of the baking accessories are under $10 and all are available on Amazon. I hope this...
Happy Friday, Friends! Looking for ideas for gifts? You've come to the right place! Todays' post is gift ideas for the jewelry maker. Look for more links below for other creative interests too! I've got a series of gift guides for your favorite people. All are available...
Well hey there! Todays' post is for gift ideas for the knitter. These products would be a great fit for a creative friend, child, or teenager who enjoys making things! Most of the knitting kits and accessories are under $45 and all are available on Amazon....
Hey Friends! I've prepared a series of gift guides for all kinds of creative people in your life. I'll be sharing them all week, starting today with these beautiful and thoughtful gift ideas for women or girls. It's the gifting season! If that statement sends shivers down your...
Homemade goods seem to touch a place in our hearts, and I think you'll agree these Christmas stocking ideas (and tutorial) are no exception. They combine cozy sweaters and the holidays; a perfect recipe for the season. I hope you are inspired to make one yourself...
Today's recipe is not only flavor-FULL but it gets extra credit for nutrition too! It is bone broth disguised as authentic Chinese Dumpling Soup in an instant pot. Fast, healthy, and delicious! Awesome right? This is another wonderful recipe courtesy of our Chinese friend, Yulin (James). He...
This time of year it is always fun to feather the nest a little. Today's craft project is perfect for this! I think you will enjoy adding some fall decor and color to your space with this Thanksgiving crafts banner. Other Banner Craft Ideas Fall Garland HERE Christmas...
I LOVE fall. I feel it in my soul. If only it weren't so fleeting! Today we're going to extend fall beauty indoors with this sweet and easy fall leaf crafts garland. Create your own pattern for the leaves by tracing real ones, OR you can...
To mark the end of the summer and the beauty of the harvest moon, let us celebrate with Jenny's everyday salad recipe because this salad is still blooming in full color! Though it is technically fall, I'm still holding on to summertime with both hands. Here...
As the temps dip here in Minnesota, I am reminded of this timeless recipe that everyone needs in their kitchen repertoire. Homemade Basil Pesto is a perennial favorite and if you make enough you can keep on enjoying it all winter long. I tend to forget...
With only 3 ingredients, a decadent taste, and appearance, this recipe for homemade keto whipped cream is over the top. Quite literally. We all know whipped cream is a delicious addition to any dessert, but when you understand how very fast and easy it is to...
Hello, sunshine! Though you may be spending an enormous amount of time at home these days, let's sew something to wear for the days when we do get out. Follow along and be inspired to make a summer dress - McCalls M8090. I also have lots...
Hey friends! I am back today with yet another delicious Asian-inspired recipe from our international friend Zhengzheng Ren (Dave), from Shanghai. Easy, Chinese style sauteed shrimp is fast, delicious, and one of my absolute favorites. First and foremost, this dish is super flavorful and tasty. Chinese...
"If you find something you love that fits you well, buy it in multiples!" Maybe you've heard this said before, and you would if you could, but sometimes it’s just not available in other colors or patterns. Fortunately, if you like to sew or you’re...
So many craft projects, so little time! Today I have a whole new category of crafts for you. Mosaic tiles! IKR. How are you going to fit all this fun into one lifetime? Today, we are dropping in on my friend Deb as she finishes...
Here she is, my traditional 4th of July Blueberry Crumble. I think I've made this every year for the last 15 years. Best in July, when the blueberries are abundant and sweet. It doesn't have a fancy lattice crust, but it's faster, easier, and it's...
You really have to hand it to Betsy Ross. She knew what she was doing. The American Flag design is so simple, yet so distinctive and also open to beautiful interpretations. Do I sound patriotic? Well yes, I am! Here's a craft project that's fun...
It's almost Independence Day in the United States, so you know what that means? Yes, of course. My girlfriend Ruth is back at her gnome endeavors! I just wanted to drop in quickly today and share her colorful and creative 4th of July Gnomes DIY. NEW HALLOWEEN...
Everybody needs a neighbor who delivers cocktails to your door. We are lucky enough to have those neighbors, and they've shared their drink recipe today. It's bound to put a summer smile on your face and a kick in your step. Here's how to make...
Last week we had the privilege of being spoiled guests of our friend, Midge. Today I am sharing her winning formula for how to host the perfect lunch party for your girlfriends. An invitation to Midge's home is like a great big hug; warm, welcoming, leaving...
Need a quick pick me up for your summer porch or patio? Keep reading to learn a simple method for DIY no-sew party tablecloths and runners. This tablecloth has you covered. (Pun intended) Its construction is idiot-proof, super-fast, and easy. No sewing is required, which makes...
Today’s post is pure Spring inspiration; Flower pot planting ideas just for you. I'm sharing the gorgeous flower art of one of my besties. Ruth is that girl you know, gloriously gifted with both sides of the brain; smarts and artistic chops. Not fair, right?...
Hi friends! I am happy to report that the weather in Minnesota has finally transformed into Spring! It's a perfect time to make a long skirt - mine is Simplicity 8745 but in this post, I also share other styles for you to try. I'm here to celebrate...
For weeks I have been making and eating my weight in banana bread. The Jimmys (Fallon and Kimmel) both confirmed last week that (thank goodness) I am not alone. It must be human nature to seek comfort via bananas. If you are craving it too,...
Summer is almost here. Yay! Is your closet ready? Come along and make your own DIY elastic waist skirt. We'll start with a basic style, great for beginners! When the warm weather hits, nothing is easier to wear than a breezy skirt. It's often hard to...
Well hello and happy spring green to you! Are you looking to try something new in this beautiful season? Let it be this project. An easy succulent garden planter is as beautiful as it is fun to make! Girls Night (or Day) Ideas My girlfriends and I...
Hi there! Welcome to Sewing Room Ideas and Organization - Part 3 in my series on organizing your creative spaces. Today I'll take you for a quick spin around my sewing setup and throw out ideas for yours too. I hope it inspires you. Let's get...
Are you looking for a creative distraction from our current situation? I've got you. If you are at home, now is a perfect time to learn a new skill. Have you ever wanted to sew your own clothes? Today's creative challenge is to make a...
Today we are going to make a Mackenzie-Childs-inspired glass jar with decorative lid. I will share a few decoupage ideas we have up our sleeves to get you going! Have heard of MacKenzie-Childs? They are known for their imaginative, whimsical designs of home decor, dinnerware, and...
What's hiding under your bed? Whether it's monsters or just a bunch of storage containers, I have an inexpensive way to hide them and get a custom look while you're at it. Today we're going to make an easy, DIY bed skirt using simple and...
About ten years ago, when my parents were somewhere in their seventies, before my Mom's Alzheimer's struck, my Dad was on a cookbook buying spree. I think he was trying to encourage her to try new recipes and foods. (wink, wink.) I could see what he...
Hey friends! Here's my first no recipe, recipe, using Trader Joe products. I hope it gives you a quick side dish idea because sometimes fast and easy food is exactly what we need. Bonus; It’s delicious, simple and super healthy too. It's a perfect way...
It's 5 pm, do you know what you are making for dinner? Never fear. Today, I've got you covered with Keto Shrimp Creole with Cauliflower Rice. This is a delicious recipe you are sure to love. And your picky family will too. Mine does! That's why...
It's good to get out of your comfort zone. Right? Not always easy, but good. We've stretched ourselves over here the last few years when it comes to international flavors. For instance, duck tongue. Yup. Are you squirming yet? This is just one taste of...
House blind? Yup, it happens to the best of us! When you become so used to your home that you unconsciously overlook the clutter or the time-worn flaws of aging. Have you experienced this phenomenon? Maybe you've been out of town for a while. You step...
Capes seem to come in and out of fashion, but to me they are classic. Unique and stylish, the bolder the better. YOLO. Today I am going to show you how to make an easy hooded cape. They are very simple. No sleeves, cuffs, or...
It's comfort food season! Well, it is here in Minnesota anyway. We are just coming through the other side of (what seems like) our annual Polar Vortex. With this weather, I really need something warm, comforting, and satisfying. I will be steering clear of the...
This seemingly ordinary project (Did you really just yawn?) may be the perfect beginner sewing project for you to cut your DIY teeth on. It's easy and relatively fast to make. It involves two skills, ironing, and straight stitching. I know that you can do...