We’ve all heard the expression, “when pigs fly,” implying impossibility. Well, we won’t let that stop us from expressing our creativity!
Sometimes you find your next art project in the most unlikely of places! I found this cute little winged pig at the local Rite Aid Pharmacy. Although it’s fine the way it is, I thought it would be nice to add some color. Break out your brushes and acrylic paints because we’re going to give this little piggy a makeover. In my excitement to get started, I had already painted the eyes when I realized I hadn’t taken a “Before” photo. In its original state, there was no color at all.
Here’s a photo of the back. The wings are so cute.
Before we get started, I found a photo of this piglet for inspiration. Please feel free to choose any colors you like. The mix of colors on the spotted pig featured at the top of this post would make a great color scheme as well.
To complete this project, you will need several acrylic paints and two paint brushes (1 large & 1 small). Clear spray paint is optional.
Paint the details first, including the hooves, eyes, tongue, and the inside of each ear.
Here is a close up of his smiling little face. The eyes are painted brown, with black pupils and a dot of white in each eye to create a lively expression.
Because the black hooves seemed to be too much contrast, I changed the color of the hooves to tan. In doing so, the eyes become the focal point. Mix white and fuchsia together to create the desired shade of pink, and use it to paint the entire body, except for the end of the snout, which is unpainted.
Here is the back photo. The wings are also unpainted. If you like a challenge, you could come up with a unique scheme for the feathers, possibly using iridescent colors. To protect the acrylic paints, the entire statue was sprayed with clear spray paint.
BeforeAfter
This fun and easy project is inexpensive and can be completed in a very short amount of time. All drug stores have a seasonal section, which is marked down after every holiday and at season’s end by as much as 50% -75% off. There are some great options for adults as well as kids.
When I was a kid, I loved dressing up in costumes, imagining who or what I could be. If that wasn’t an option, I would wait until Saturday morning when my mom changed the beds. Why? Because a flat sheet transformed into a gorgeous gown, and the fitted sheet became a hooded cape.
Today, there are so many options for readymade costumes and accessories. Want to take your costume to the next level? Cosplayers design and make their own costumes to participate year-round in worldwide conventions and competitions. Let’s explore the world of cosplay…
Knight in Shining Armor
Designing and building cosplay costumes requires a multitude of skills, including fashion design, industrial design, leather & metal working, hair, makeup, & accessories, wiring, robotics, special effects, and many others.
Industrial Science Fiction
The shapes, colors, and textures work together to create a story. Who is this man? Why does he wear a mask? Pale blue contacts provide another layer as his watchful eyes dare you to come closer.
Vikings– Father & Son
Period appropriate clothing made from hand-tooled leather with leather ties, chain mail, hairstyles, and facial hair are all important elements for these successful characters.
The Good Witch
This is not your typical witch. The neon orange against the black creates an eye-catching look. Blue highlights in her hair perfectly frame her face with its unusual makeup palette, which manages to be macabre and beautiful at the same time.
Body Painting
Body painting is a full commitment from head to toe and really makes a statement.
Every Little Detail Counts
When you create a well-known costume, you must get the details correct. Character recognition and countless competition prizes depend upon it.
Deadpool
Star Wars
Poison Ivy
Elsa from Disney’s Frozen
Julius Caesar
Wednesday from the Addams Family
Anime (retains human qualities)
Anime (doll-like qualities)
Woodland Fairy
Goddess Warrior
Mother Nature
SteampunkMan
Steampunk Dog
Warrior Samurai
Warrior Gaming
Warrior League of Legends
This is my favorite. Each intricate design coordinates with the others, from her costume to the swords and even the tattoos upon her sides. A healthy dose of attitude completes this warrior’s fierce appearance.
Costume design doesn’t have to end with Halloween. In fact, it’s only the beginning. Dare to dream and inspiration will carry you wherever you wish to go.
Jewelry can be frustrating for people with arthritis or limited mobility in their hands and fingers. As a result, putting on a bracelet, earrings or watch can become very difficult, if not impossible. A few simple changes can make it easier, so that wearing jewelry is enjoyable once again. All the jewelry components pictured below are available online through FireMountainGems.com.
Toggle Clasps
When selecting necklaces or bracelets, look for toggle clasps. A toggle clasp is larger and easier to manipulate than a spring ring or lobster claw clasp. Another advantage of toggle clasps is that they are easy to use and typically can be secured without the help of another person.
Lobster Claw Clasps
Many spring ring and lobster claw clasps are quite small, making them more difficult to secure. If a lobster claw clasp is the only option, ask for a larger size clasp and a larger jump ring on the other end. Regardless of the type of clasp, many people try to secure the clasp behind the neck, which can be very frustrating. You can always secure the clasp of a necklace in the front and then slide the clasp around to the back of your neck.
Extender Chains
For necklaces, it is helpful to choose a length that you can put on over your head. If you don’t know what size you need, go into any store and try on several until you find the length that works best for you. Make note of that size so that you can be sure to buy that length in the future. Another option is an extender chain. This short length of chain, in gold or silver, can be added to a necklace to give you a few extra inches of length.
Stretch Watch & Stretch Bracelet
If a bracelet clasp is too difficult, you may be able to slip it on without opening the clasp. Another option is stretch bracelets and watches, which are easy to slide on and off over your hand.
Memory Wire Bracelets
Memory wire bracelets are quite easy to wear. Simply wrap it around your wrist and it will resume its shape, which resembles stacked bracelets.
Fishhook Earwire & Leverback Earrings
Earrings come in several types. Pierced earrings are available with earwires, earstuds (also known as posts), and leverbacks. Earwires are available in many shapes, sizes, and vary in thickness. The aptly named leverback earring can be easily opened and closed with the simple flip of a hinged lever. Both the earwires and the leverbacks offer ease of handling and there are no small parts to secure.
Butterfly Clutch & Earnut with Comfort Clutch
Most post style pierced earrings come with butterfly clutches like the one shown above on the left. These are quite small and difficult to secure. How often have you dropped one and they’re impossible to find on thick carpet! A nice alternative is an earnut with a comfort clutch, which is a plastic disc that provides support from the back to prevent the earring from drooping and also gives you a larger piece to hold onto when securing the earring.
Flat Pad Clip-on Earrings & Slip-on Comfort Pads
Clip-on earrings can be uncomfortable to wear. Choose flat pad clip earrings or add slip-on comfort pads to make clips more comfortable. If you have allergies, be sure to ask if nickel free earring posts or clips are available.
Ring Guards
Do you have rings that you can no longer wear? If they are too large, a ring guard can be added to make it a smaller size. A jeweler can resize precious gold and sterling silver rings.
Rings on a Necklace
Another option is to wear the ring on a chain or necklace. A custom beaded necklace can incorporate your favorite rings into the design. As a side note, if you lose a dangle earring, don’t throw away its mate. Many dangle earrings can become pendants on new necklaces.
Jewelry is such a wonderful expression of our personalities and everyone should be able to wear it. With a few simple adjustments, jewelry can be given new life in your wardrobe and more importantly, restore a little piece of your independence. If you lack the skills to make these changes, you probably know someone who makes beaded jewelry. I’m sure they would be glad to help.
I am thrilled and humbled to have reached a major blogging milestone: 750 Followers. My sincere thanks to each of you. Whether you stop by for a quick read, or settle in and stay for a while, your presence is greatly appreciated.
Sharing images and words sends ripples of inspiration around the world. I feel privileged to belong to this amazing blogging community.
We express ourselves through photography, music, poetry, arts & crafts, and many other ways too numerous to mention. It does not matter what approach you choose. By sharing our gifts, we help each other to grow, learn, and discover hidden talents on this creative journey called life.
Thanks for reading, liking, commenting & following!
Origami is an ancient art of paper folding. Boats are one of the more familiar forms, but there is a wide variety of shapes, including animals, trees, and flowers. Let’s explore this beautiful form of art.
Traditional Origami:
Bird
Butterflies
Crane in Flight
Dragon
Flower
Horses
Kangaroos
Pig
Rabbits
Swan
Vulture
Golden Venture Origami:
Did you know there are several types of origami? Golden Venture origami uses multiple pieces of paper to create three-dimensional freestanding sculptures. This was new to me. I love it and I hope you will too.
Closeup Detail of Bird’s Face
Easter Basket with Eggs
Frog
Pineapple
Swan
Origami Gifts & Décor:
In addition to being an impressive form of art to be displayed in your home or office, origami also makes a great choice for gifts and home décor.
Diorama
Birthday Gifts
Toys
Home Décor – Garland or Wreath
Party/Holiday Decorations
Mobiles
Accent Lighting
Wedding Décor
I hope you have been inspired to give paper crafting a try. There are a multitude of books, websites, videos, and classes to learn more about the many facets of origami. Do you have any favorites? Please let me know in the comments.
Welcome to part two of table décor. Last week we reviewed the basic elements used in decorating tables. Today, we will see table designs for most occasions celebrated throughout the year. In case you missed part one, please click here.
Contemporary Table Décor
There are variations within each, but, in terms of style, designs usually fall into three categories: traditional, contemporary, and eclectic. We’ll start with holidays, followed by special occasions and finish with table décor for the four seasons. Let’s begin…
Holiday Table Décor:
Valentine’s Day
Mardi Gras
St. Patrick’s Day
Easter
Mexican Celebrations
Mother’s Day
Father’s Day
Independence Day – Fourth of July(U.S.A.)
Halloween
Thanksgiving
Christmas
New Year’s Eve
Special Occasion Table Décor:
Afternoon Tea
Anniversary
Baby Shower
Birthday – Kid’s
Birthday – Kid’s
Birthday – Adult’s
Birthday – Adult’s
Engagement
Romantic Evening
Wedding
Seasons Table Décor:
Autumn
Winter
Spring
Summer
This concludes our exploration of table décor. I hope you have found some inspiration for your next celebration. Which ones are your favorites? Do you have any table decorating ideas to share? Please let me know in the comment section.
Earlier this year, one of my followers requested a post featuring table décor inspirations for year-round events. I discovered so many ideas that it will require two posts: Part 1 covers elements used in table décor, including decorations, lighting, food presentation, etc.; Part 2 features table décor designs for most holidays and special occasions throughout the year. Let’s get started…
Balloons, Fabric & 3-Dimensional Design
When planning your table décor, remember to think in three dimensions. The space above the table, including the ceiling, can be incorporated into your design.
Balloon Bouquets
Balloons have come a long way from the old days. The varieties include patterns, multicolor, & foil, in multiple shapes and sizes, including favorite characters from movies, comic books and cartoons.
Candles
Sweet fragrances, beautiful colors, and romantic lighting are all benefits of candles.
Color Theme: Pink
The theme for table décor is often drawn from the occasion, such as red for Valentine’s Day, but you may choose any theme that comes to mind, such as your favorite color.
Color Theme: Red & Gold
Want to create some drama? Choose bold color combinations for an eye-catching table.
Floral Centerpieces
Contrary to popular belief, the centerpiece does not have to be in the center. This off-center fresh cut floral centerpiece, with coordinating draped fabric, provides plenty of room for place settings, in an artfully designed composition.
Silk Flowers
Silk flowers are easy to work with and can be reused for future events.
Floral Focal Points at Varying Heights
Varying the heights of your décor creates visual interest and appeal.
Food Presentation
If you have culinary skills, be sure to showcase your talents as food becomes part of your table décor. We eat with our eyes first, so create a mouthwatering masterpiece for your guests to enjoy.
Lighting
Lighting sets the mood and tone for any occasion.
Lighting – Specialty
Depending upon the setting, lights can be suspended above the table or around the perimeter of the room, adding warmth and perhaps a bit of whimsy.
Folded Napkin Art
Simple linen napkins can be elevated to an art form via napkin folding techniques. Many how-to videos are available online.
Place Settings – Simple
These cool matte gray dishes are accented by shiny gold rims, paired with gold flatware and accessories. The gold toned wood tabletop serves as the perfect backdrop.
Place Settings – Layered
Multiple layers of coordinating or contrasting elements include tablecloths and/or placemats, chargers, varying plate sizes, napkins & rings, and place cards,
Festive Tablecloths
Tablecloths in every color and infinite patterns are easily found online or in stores for every possible occasion. Lace tablecloths can be layered over solid colors. As an alternative, you can purchase fabric and drape it over the table for a one-of-a-kind look.
Seasonal Décor
Consider using many elements associated with the occasion being celebrated, such as small, wrapped gift boxes at Christmas, or chocolates for Valentines Day or Easter. Adding items such as evergreen, sliced oranges, or cinnamon scent the air with sweet seasonal fragrances.
Thinking Outside the Box:
Location, Location, Location
Where will you place your table? Is it an indoor or outdoor location? Will it be freestanding or up against a wall. Let the location inspire your design.
Table & Chairs
Will you be using a traditional table and chairs? Will your guests dine at the table, or will it be buffet style? Could you serve appetizers on bar top tables?
Local Flavor
This can include natural elements, such as sand & seashells for the beach, or pinecones & evergreen for the mountains. Local flavor also refers to cultural décor and traditions.
Floral Table Runner
Not all table runners have to be fabric, although traditional ones come in a variety of materials and often have decorative needlework or intricate lace patterns. As an alternative, fresh cut or silk flowers can serve as table runners as shown above. Silk garlands are a very simple way to achieve the same look.
Floating Floral Centerpiece
Water features are often overlooked in table décor. Floating flowers or petals lends a peaceful, Zen-like quality to your design.
Floating Folded Napkin Art
Years ago, my family had a party under a large tent. Water filled bowls with floating flowers served as centerpieces. Thick lush blooms were our first choice, but none were available. We used Gerber daisies, which were pretty but lacked the three-dimensional effect we wanted. Napkins folded into large blooms might be the solution. Someday I’ll experiment with this idea and let you know the results. Do you have any suggestions?
I hope you enjoyed this exploration of table décor. Please click here to read part two, featuring table décor designs for all occasions. What is your favorite holiday or occasion for decorating? Do you have any ideas to share? Please let me know in the comments.
This week’s post celebrates the many flavors of muffins. Of course, we have all heard and hopefully tasted some of the classics, such as corn or blueberry muffins, but you may also find some new ones here to tempt your taste buds. Let’s get started…
Apple Cheddar Muffins
Sweet apples and savory cheddar cheese are a delicious flavor combination.
Banana Walnut Muffins
Banana muffins are a great breakfast treat, especially if they’re still warm from the oven.
Blueberry Muffins
The classic blueberry muffin is highly favored by adults and kids.
Cappuccino Muffins
If you really love coffee, a cappuccino muffin is the perfect treat to complement your beverage of choice.
Carrot Muffins
Carrot cake has found a more portable version in these delicious muffins. To truly duplicate that flavor, you might opt for cream cheese filling or icing.
Chocolate Cheese Muffins
Cheesecake is a staple on most dessert menus, and it is delicious. Chocolate cheese and cherry cheese muffins share the same rich flavors in a finger-licking treat to enjoy anytime, day or night.
Chocolate Chip Muffins
Adding chocolate to any recipe is always a good idea.
Chocolate Currant Muffins
These chocolate muffins have currants in the batter as well as on top as decorations.
Double Chocolate Hazelnut Muffins
Chocoholics will love these double chocolate muffins with or without the nuts.
Corn Muffins
Corn muffins are another classic. Warm them in the oven with some butter or jelly. Yum!
Cranberry Cinnamon Muffins
When Autumn arrives and the holidays approach, cranberry seems to be a popular choice. In this example, the tart cranberries are balanced by the sweet cinnamon and sugar crumble topping.
Filled Muffins
These muffins may look plain on the outside, but hidden inside is a sweet combination of caramel, chocolate, and cream cheese fillings. Wow!
Gingerbread Muffins
Gingerbread comes in all kinds of baked goods, including muffins, breads, cakes, and of course cookies.
Lavender Muffins
These lavender muffins are probably the most unusual flavor on the list and usually incorporate fruit flavoring in the recipe from lemons, cherries, blueberries, or bananas.
Oatmeal Raisin Muffins
Like a comforting bowl of hot cereal, oatmeal muffins taste terrific with fruit, chocolate, maple, or honey.
Orange Muffins
If you love citrus flavors, the orange juice and orange zest in these muffins will satisfy your cravings.
Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin flavor can be enjoyed any time of year in baked goods, beverages, pastas, sauces, soups, and just about anything else you imagine.
Strawberry Muffins
You can’t go wrong adding fruit to muffin batter. You could add fruit juice to the vanilla batter, which provides the same great taste, and the finished muffins will be very colorful too. My favorite muffin is raspberry cheese, which is a pretty shade of bubblegum pink.
Vanilla & Chocolate Swirl Muffins
If you can’t decide between chocolate or vanilla, have both. Feel free to experiment with all kinds of flavor combinations. Who knows, maybe your latest creation could be the next trending taste sensation. And remember, if they don’t turn out as you had hoped, you can always eat the evidence, and no one will ever know. (lol)
What are your favorite muffins? Please let me know in the comments section.
With such fast-paced lives, we all need a break from our daily stresses. These demands have physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual effects. The best solution is a vacation, but that may not be possible. Instead, indulge in a hobby or two to take your mind and body to a happy place. Every day you do things for everyone else. It’s time to put yourself first! You’ll be so glad you did, and you’ll have a lot of fun while doing it. Here are a few crafting ideas to get you started:
There are so many crafting options. Many craft stores, local high schools and art studios offer classes in arts and crafts. Try something new, make new friends, and experience a renewed sense of joy and playful excitement.
As new blooms of spring dazzle us with their beautiful pastel or jewel tone petals, equally attractive butterflies gather sweet nectar and flutter away like fairies in the wind.
Experiences like this make it easy to believe in magic.
For our project this week, we will create a beautiful butterfly garden, which will always be fresh and colorful as a spring morning, and it never needs to be watered. Let’s get started…
How to Paint a Wood Carved Butterfly Garden:
Raw Wood Flower Garden
When I first saw this wood carving, I didn’t notice the butterflies. As you begin to add colors, the butterflies appear almost like magic.
Markers
Acrylic Paints
Supplies:
LED Wooden Flower Garden (7” high x 4-1/2” wide x 1-1/8” thick)
Markers – blue, lavender, green, fuchsia, red, yellow & black
Acrylic Paints – white & blue, plus metallic paints: gold, rust, blue, & purple
Paintbrushes
Color with Markers
Begin coloring the flowers and leaves. If you are undecided between two colors, try the lightest color first. You can always go darker, if desired. If you make a mistake, it can be covered with paint to match the wood and then try again with the markers.
Color Remaining Leaves with Markers
The butterflies really stand out now against the boldly colored leaves and flowers.
Paint the Butterflies with Acrylics
I experimented with different base colors for each butterfly, depending upon how well they contrasted with the surrounding vegetation. To complete this project, you could paint the butterfly wing details with acrylics too, but I had already decided to use three dimensional paints, as shown below.
Create wings patterns with dots, stripes, contrasting colors, etc.
Paint the Flower Petals with 3D Paints
Define Details by Layering 3D Paints
Finished Project
Define leaf veins, stems, and flower centers with 3D paints. I added vines and leaves in a few spots along the perimeter. Paint the outer edge and backer board with light blue acrylic paint.
Finished Project Lit
The concealed LEDs give a soft purple glow in the dark, which serves perfectly as a nightlight.
I hope you enjoyed this transformative journey. Together, we have created a garden that will last for generations to come. What is your favorite flower or butterfly? Please let me know in the comments section.
Crafts Inspire Me 