DIY Backyard Citronella Mason Jar Candles

This week's post is all about an easy to do project. I love being outside in my recently renovated backyard but I hate the bugs. The bugs love me. With just a couple of easy to find items, you can create your own citronella candles from mason jars. I estimate that each costs $3.75 and will last you the entire summer. 

I imagine these to be perfect for a backyard wedding. They can serve the purpose of table decor, yet they keep the bugs away from your guests. 

Items needed:

Mason jar(s)

Citronella oil (purchased at Kroger but can also be found at Lowe's or Home Depot)

Rosemary (substitute any herb that smells good)

Lemon slices

Floating Candle

Ribbon (optional) 

Load up your ingredients in your mason jar (or decorative vase), oil, rosemary and lemon slices before topping with your floating candle. In just order three minutes you can have the perfect outdoor centerpiece that does double duty! The smell is fantastic and will keep you outside for hours on end. 

Make Your Own Music Festival Headpiece

Modern day music festivals still look like a picture from Woodstock, tons of hot sweaty music lovers embracing the outdoor elements to hear world-class music. My favorite part of any music festival is the fashion. Music festivals are the place where almost anything is acceptable, although not all outfits are award-winning. I prefer to be fashionable, comfy yet feminine. The stable piece to any look is a flower headpiece. I made mine for Bonnaroo 2014 in just under $7.00.

Items Needed:

Green floral wire ($1.50)

Pliers (I owned)

Hot glue gun (I owned)

Assorted plastic flowers ($5.50, although you can easily use real flowers from your garden or florist)

Use the floral wire to make the shape around my head. 

Next, I cut off the flowers from the wire stems. 

The last step is to begin to build your headpiece by hot gluing your flowers as you desire. 

How To Create a DIY Photobooth

I just love a fun and quirky photobooth! I recently created one for my book club and family for the holidays. The possibilities are endless but let's talk about the must-have's.

1. Background- I love using fabric (push pins to adhere to your walls), wrapping paper (scotch tape), pipe and drape (curtains) or you can build something custom.

2. Props- This is a must to keep it fun and exciting. I typically go with a theme (Christmas, Baby Shower, etc.) but props that go with any photo booth are fun hats, mustaches, balloons, and a message board. You can buy props on etsy here or download some options here:

• Cowboys 
• Witch  
• Thanksgiving  
• Glam  
• 1920's   
• Holiday
• and fun glasses 

3. Camera- You'll need a digital camera and a tripod for ease. I prefer to put my camera on a 10 second delay so everyone can always be in the photo. Make sure you have lots of space for the photos on your memory card.

Always test your camera, lighting and props before your party. I typically share the event photos on Facebook or Snapfish after the event.

Dream Dog Designs

I am in awe over these beautifully designed dog houses for the Austin, TX Barkitecture fundraiser. I am so inspired by their work. These dog houses may make you think differently about dog houses. I know I am inspired.

For more information about the event click HERE.

Transfer Images and Photos to Wood

I found this on Pinterest, like most of my projects, and I just had to try. I found it hard to believe that you could transfer images onto wood, but I am here to report that it is TRUE and EASY!

 

Winthrop chronicles

Rockin Robin

Items Needed:
Photo or image (printed on copy paper, not photo paper)
Wood piece, unpainted or stained
Gel medium (found at art supplies and craft stores)

Layer an generous coat of gel medium onto your wood piece. Place your photo or image face down onto your wood and rub out any bubbles and excess gel. The smoother you make your image the quicker it will dry and the better transfer coverage. Let dry over night and in the morning rub off the paper while the ink remains on the wood. I used a couple drops of water to get the paper loose. If you'd like a protective shiny finish, end with a coat or two of Mod Podge.

ReadyMade

Create Paperweights from Light Fixture

It sounds crazy but you can turn a light fixture into beveled glass paperweights. I heard about this a while ago and finally found my gem ($3 light fixture) at Goodwill last week.  I was intimidated to remove the glass but that was actually very easy.  

 The top brass balls unscrewed and the glass pieces just slid out from the fixture. 

 After you have removed your beveled glass, select how you would like to design your paperweights.  I played with using notecards (I liked the pattern) and some extra photos.  You could also print out labels "file", "to do" etc. if you wish to make them more practical. 

Trace over your paper and then spray the right side with spray adhesive. Place under your glass and you are done. It will dry in a matter of minutes.

It is optional to add felt to the bottom.  I didn't on mine, they are flat and smooth enough for my desk. 

I love projects that cost less than $5. This is a great gift idea now wedding season, mother's day or even just a nice gift for yourself. I reward myself with gifts on a regular basis. 

Personalized Porcelain Projects

I think this project may be my favorite new gift idea.  I love gifts that are personalized, affordable and easy.  Porcelain pens were created to allow you to design, write and create whatever you wish on ceramic and porceain objects.  You can purchase the pens are most craft stores, I purchased mine from Amazon for $9.  You'll use the pen like you would on any object; allow it to dry for 24 hours and then bake in your oven at 300 degrees for 35 minutes.  This allows the ink to become food safe and dishwasher resistant. I designed a serving tray in just minutes flat with a stencil and my entire porject cost less than $25.00.

Gift Ideas:

1. Allow guests at a party to write messages for the part recipient. Baby shower, bridal shower, birthday, etc.
2. Give the children an opprtunity to get creative and design their own plates.
3. Create custom coffee mugs for Mother's day or Father's day.
4. Design artsy plate to hang in your dining room.
5. Label your ceramic storage containers.
6. Make a piggy bank to remind you to save for something special.

Going Home To Roost

Going Home To Roost

Maiden Jane

Video on Knox Fox Morning Show Channel 43

Perfectly Charming Wedding Video

I am so excited to share this wedding video with you. Kirby and Tyler are very dear to my heart. I am so honored to have played a very small role in their wedding day. Their videographer did a fantastic job of showcasing their love, glamour and personalities.

Kirby + Tyler // St. Paul, Minnesota from Colin Cabalka on Vimeo.

Kirby is also a VERY talented fashion designer and runs a beautiful blog- check it out! http://colorsofhoney.blogspot.com/

Wedding Couches

Now that Bryan and I celebrated out 1 year anniversary I am reminded how much I love weddings, and well, furniture. I think incorporating a family heirloom or just a loved piece of furniture will help set the tone for you wedding.

Summer Brides: call me if you need help finding your perfect piece.

Ms. Pac Man

Bryan and I received a 48-in-one arcade system as an engagement present from our parents. Not typical, but we're not. I grew up with a Ms. Pac Man machines and have taught Bryan a fraction of my skills to keep myself entertained.

We love the machine but I am guilty of destroying the black leather. First for using it as a painting stool and next for setting a hot iron on one. Guilty.

I used IKEA fabric that my mother-in-law bought for me from Atlanta. I think it's very playful and fun.

$7 Wedding Dress?!?!

Talk about DIY and budgeting! This bride spent $7 on her wedding dress. I LOVE the chairs, it's so fun! More photos:http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/08/angie-and-tysons-diy-wedding.html