Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Mason Jar Crafts



Good Morning!

I was fortunate enough to get a copy of Mason Jar Crafts -by Lauren Elise Donaldson.  This amazing, splendid, and fascinating idea book has me stocking up on Mason Jars.   As I read through the pages, I find myself eager to try out several of them.  Over the next month I will be posting some of the creations that my girls and I have crafted with help of this idea book.  Some of the ideas I currently have are;


  • Creating treat jars.  I am going to switch up the fabric for some zoo like papers, and use this Mason Jar idea for my daughters 7th birthday party.  
  • Creating Herb Jars for the winter months using sprigs out of my garden and the Mason Jars.
  • The clock!  Oh boy, I may save this one for last.
  • The Piggy bank.

  • And so many more ideas.............................


    Oh the endless possibilities.

    Should you want your copy and do not want to wait for my showcasing, by all means, hop on over to Ulysses Press.  I can guarantee this is not your average book,  you will not be disappointed.

    Have a splendid day,
    Hugs
    Tanya


    Tuesday, July 9, 2013

    Crafting Calm- by Maggie Oman Shannon

    Hello,

    Wondering what I have been up to lately?

     I am currently reading Crafting Calm, (Viva Editions, May 2013) by Maggie Oman Shannon.




    This book had me in the very beginning.  During the introduction the author talks about seeing gems out of things that others would perceive as junk.  She talks about her collections, and the things she makes.  I let out a laugh when she wrote "if you have read this far....you are one of our tribe".

    Not only does she talk about her love of craft, but she talks about the spiritual connection that comes with immersing ourselves into our crafts (our art).  The author also includes various excerpts from others about their spiritual journey through their arts.   

    The one chapter that stood out for me was the "Visual Journals" chapter.  I am a very visual person, and have wanted to start a Visual Journal, however being a perfectionist, I am stumped at where to start.  I have all the tools, I just have to jump in with both feet.  

    Each chapter (each craft) closes with an "Inner Inquiries for Journaling and Refection", and "Guides for the Path"  The author leaves us with questions that have us contemplating how to bring our craft to that next level of self fulfillment.   As well as references to help us on our journey.

    I strongly recommend this book, it would make an amazing addition to anyone's craft room.  It is a nice and easy to read, and each chapter left me enlightened.  I will keep you all posted on how my Visual Journal is coming along.

    Happy Tuesday!
    Hugs
    Tanya