Crafts Inspire Me

What's Your Inspiration?

It’s a Fire Truck!

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

Aside from stating the obvious, I’m sure you’re wondering where I’m going with this post. I have a funny family story to share…

When my brother and I were little, my mom took us to a department store to buy Christmas presents for her. Inside the store was a life-size Santa’s workshop, which looked like a log cabin with fake snow and icicles hanging from the roof. Parents brought their children to purchase gifts for individual family members, with the help of a store employee. To a kid, this was such a cool idea.

A salesperson walked each child around, helped select a gift, and wrapped it up to be placed under the Christmas tree. I went in first and found a lovely pair of earrings for my mom. I felt very proud of myself, shopping just like the grownups did.

While my mom and I waited, my younger brother went inside. For some reason, he was taking a very long time to choose a gift. When we discovered why, we were hysterically laughing. My brother did his very best to convince the salesgirl that my mom wanted a shiny red fire truck for Christmas! And being a thoughtful boy, he said he could play with it when she wasn’t using it!

Ever since, whenever someone receives a present that is really for the gift giver, we call it a “fire truck.”

So, on that special occasion, when you open your gifts, if you see something that reminds you of this post, just smile, say thanks and think… Fire Truck! lol

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Post I Didn’t Want to Write

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

I truly struggled to write this post. Every time I thought about it, even as I am typing now, my eyes fill with tears. I suppose some small part of my brain hopes that if it isn’t written down, it might not be true.

Last Sunday, Smokey was having the best day ever, sitting on the deck watching wildlife, supervising the cooking of dinner on the grill, and feasting on a steak dinner. The next morning, he died. It was a shock to everyone, including the vet. He had been doing so well. How could he be happy one minute and gone the next?

I want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers. Right now, Smokey is burrowing under God’s comforter or floating on a cloud watching over us.

Hug your furry friends! The joy and love they bring to our lives will live on forever in our hearts. Thanks again for your support!

Smokey’s Recovery Update

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

Sorry it has taken so long to post an update on Smokey. As you know, he had emergency surgery, and the recovery process has been slow. He is taking two prescription medications, but like all cats he hates pills. His sense of smell is so well developed that he could get a job at the airport searching for drugs in passenger’s luggage. lol

Did you know they make playpens for pets? I didn’t! He loves sitting outside on the deck getting some fresh air while watching birds and squirrels.

Being pampered has become his favorite activity. He loves layered blankets, a heating pad made for cats, and beef pate with extra gravy. Sometimes he is treated to a few pieces of steak, which he promptly grabs and carries off as if it is his prey. lol

Thanks for reading and please keep positive thoughts and energy flowing this way. Smokey and I really appreciate it!

Take Care & Happy Crafting!

Recovering at the Art Studio – Blog Paws

Posted on March 5, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

Those of you who follow my blog will recognize one of our art studio mascots, Smokey. Two weeks ago, he had to be rushed to the veterinary clinic for emergency surgery. As you can imagine, it was such a shock.

We set up a cage for his recuperation, which requires bed rest and absolutely no jumping. He also had to wear one of those dreaded cones to prevent him from chewing on his incision.

Since then, I have been nursing him back to health. Each day he improves, which is such a relief. Besides eating food, one of his greatest pleasures is sleeping under a blanket. Looks like he’s slowly getting back to normal! Lol

As much as I enjoy writing posts and conversing with followers, I have not been able to keep up with my blog. I’ll try to read your posts and comments but will be slow in responding. Thanks for reading and please keep positive thoughts and energy flowing this way. Smokey and I really appreciate it!

Take Care & Happy Crafting!

Year of the Snake 2025

Posted on January 29, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

Today, we are celebrating the Year of the Snake. At the start, I must admit that I struggled with this topic. Many people instinctively fear snakes. All creatures have something to teach us, and my challenge is to find lessons and photos that will appeal to my readers. I hope I have succeeded. Please continue reading as we explore how snakes can motivate and inspire us…

Enjoy Nature

Daily exercise is important. Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for the mind and body.

Get a New Perspective

If you’re feeling low, climb higher and gain a new perspective.

Speak Your Mind

Try not to keep everything bottled up inside. Speak up and let your stress melt away.

BFFs or Soulmates?

Everybody needs somebody sometime. Whether it’s a new best friend or your soulmate, sharing and caring bring joy and happiness to you both.

Be Silly

There’s nothing more rewarding than making someone laugh.

Be Bold

There’s no need to hide in the shadows. Be yourself. Self-expression is a beautiful thing.

Just Dance

Listen to music, let it move you, and dance like nobody’s watching.

Get Plenty of Rest

Life can be a rat race. Take time to rest and rejuvenate to stay healthy and strong.

Self-Reflection

Look in the mirror and ask yourself: Am I the person I always wanted to be? Like a snake sheds its skin, you can make changes in your life, out with the old, in with the new. Move forward, making your dreams come true.

Camouflage

Some days you just want to blend into your surroundings. Keeping a low profile reveals opportunities as you watch and learn.

Strut Your Stuff

Confidence is sexy. Hold your head up high, stand out from the crowd and let your brilliant light shine. Become an inspiration. You are legend.

May the Year of the Snake be your best one yet!

Happy Chinese New Year & Happy Crafting!

Crafts for Every Holiday

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

I couldn’t resist this photo of a kitten swatting a clock just before midnight on New Year’s Eve. Time flies so quickly. I don’t think this little guy could catch it, but that won’t stop him from trying. There are so many creative opportunities throughout the year. Let’s look at some of the possibilities for each of the major holidays:

New Year’s Eve/Day – Specialty Drinks

New Year’s Eve/Day – Homemade Zodiac Chocolates

Chinese New Year – Lanterns & Decor

Valentine’s Day – Homemade Candy & Cookies

Valentine’s Day – Flower Arranging

St. Patrick’s Day – Flower Arranging, Jewelry, & Sewing

St. Patrick’s Day – Cookies

Easter – Dyed Eggs & Wood Crafts

Easter – Cookies & Ceramics

Cinco de Mayo – Hat Design, Beading & Embroidery

Cinco de Mayo – Costume Design, Sewing, Embroidery & Beading

Mother’s Day – Flower Arranging & Jewelry

Mother’s Day – Painting

Mother’s Day – Portraiture

Father’s Day – Wood Sculpture

Father’s Day – Craft Beer

Father’s Day – Illustration & Digital Art

Independence Day – Cake Design

Independence Day – Homemade Popsicles

Halloween – Cosplay Costume Design, Makeup, & Props

Halloween – Cookies, Candy, & Baked Treats

Halloween – Nail Art

Thanksgiving – Centerpieces, Candle Making, & Specialty Lighting

Thanksgiving – Ceramics

Hanukkah – Candle Making

Hanukkah – Jelly Donuts

Christmas – Cupcakes

Christmas – Hand-Painted Nutcrackers

Christmas – Hand-Painted Ornaments

Kwanzaa – Candle Making, Candleholders, & Centerpieces

Whether you make these holiday-themed crafts for yourself or give them as gifts, they are all wonderful ways to express your creativity. Don’t be afraid to try something new. You may discover talents you never knew you had.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Countdown – Top Six Posts 2024

Posted on January 8, 2025 by Crafts Inspire Me

Is it my imagination, or did this year go by in the blink of an eye? Before we go rushing ahead, let’s take a few minutes to look back at the highest ranked posts, as voted by you, the readers. Below is a list of the Top Six posts of 2024, in ascending order:

Number 6: Spring Break

Warm weather appears to be arriving and spring break is in full swing. I will be taking a break from blogging for a while to catch up on a few things. To read more, please click here.

Number 5: 2024 – Year of the Dragon

Since I was a kid, I have always loved dragons. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I was introduced to the Chinese zodiac and discovered that I am a dragon! Isn’t it funny I was instinctively drawn to them as a child? To read more, please click here.

Number 4: The Art of Napkin Folding

We have all admired table settings at restaurants and weddings. Napkins play an important practical as well as artistic role in the dining experience. Napkin Folding is a special art form, which anyone can learn. To read more, please click here.

Number 3: Halloween: Grins Chills or Screams Part 1

When decorating for Halloween, there are two decisions to be made: 1. Choose a Theme. 2. Choose a Fear Factor. What is the fear factor? Think of it as how much you want to frighten people, based upon a 3-level scale. Level 1 is Kid Friendly. To read more, please click here.

Number 2: Valentine’s Conundrum

Valentine’s Day – There are many ways to celebrate… Which brings us to a very strange event occurring on the same day this year… To read more, please click here.

Number 1: Happy Easter 2024

Easter is quickly approaching and dying eggs are part of the fun. To read more, please click here.

And there we have it – the top 6 posts of 2024. We have a new year to explore the world of creativity. There are always new ideas and I’ll be sure to include more of your favorites. Your opinions are greatly appreciated, and I look forward to so much more this year. If you have any suggestions for future posts, please let me know.

Thanks for Reading, Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!

Happy Thanksgiving 2024

Posted on November 28, 2024 by Crafts Inspire Me

Thanksgiving is a time for caring and sharing with family, friends, and friends of friends. By blogging, we do the same thing year-round every time we read, write, like or comment on posts. Our online community is a kind, safe, and interesting place to be. I am grateful for each visitor to my blog and wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanks for Reading, Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Crafting!

Thanksgiving Table

Posted on November 20, 2024 by Crafts Inspire Me

Thanksgiving is celebrated by everyone across the United States. It is a time of family gatherings and delicious food. Planning is the key to preparing a feast for a crowd, which can be a daunting task. There are so many decisions to be made, starting with the dining table.

Traditional Dining Room Table

Is there enough room for your guests and the food? Should you serve a sit-down dinner or buffet style? How can you create a festive atmosphere?

Contemporary Dining Room Table

Just as artists are faced with a blank canvas, what can you do with an empty table? Let’s look at a few options…

Tablecloths & Placemats:
Tablecloths

Placemats

Centerpieces:
Table Runners, Candles & Flowers

Cornucopia with Seasonal Produce

Seasonal Accents at Varying Heights

Ceramic Pumpkins & Leaves

Place Settings & Glassware:
Formal Place Setting – Neutrals

Formal Place Setting – Bold Jewel Tones

Casual Tropical Place Setting

Buffet-Style Place Setting

Glassware

Food Presentation:
Charcuterie Boards

Spreading Knives

Bold Contrasting Colors & Materials

Decorative Platters & Artfully Arranged Food

Thanksgiving Themed Desserts

Homemade Cakes & Candy (Edible Décor)

Lighting:
Firelight & Candlelight

Fairy Lights

Specialty Lights & Floral Garland

Thanksgiving Day:
Dinner is Served

Celebrating with Family & Friends

I hope these suggestions will inspire you to come up with creative Thanksgiving décor in your own unique style. Wow your guests on this memorable occasion. If you have any family traditions you would like to share, please do so in the comments.

Thanks for Reading, Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Crafting!

Happy Halloween 2024

Posted on October 31, 2024 by Crafts Inspire Me

It’s hard to believe Halloween has arrived. I love driving around the neighborhood to see all the frightfully creative yard décor.

Treat your family to delicious homemade chocolates. These are easy, fun and so much better than store bought candy.

Want to feel like a child again? Wear a mask.

Costume making 101: Cut eye holes in an old sheet and throw it over your head. How easy was that? Accessories are fun but optional.

Most families trick or treat as a group. It’s a fun and safe way to wander around the neighborhood and you’ll probably meet several friends along the way.

Let the festive lights and laughter fill you with the spirit of the season. Breathe in the clean, crisp fall air and make a wish upon a star. “Listen to the Music of the Night.” – Phantom of the Opera

I hope you have a great time and wish you a Happy Halloween and Happy Crafting!

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