One Stitch at a Time

diy :: skinny scalloped scarf

2011-12-30T22:34:00.000-08:00

well, I haven't had much time to post here, and for that I am truly ever so sorry. :) christmas rushing by in such a flurry has left me quite uninspired, but I must say that the best way to go about a wintry day is to keep one's hands busy to be sure. thus here is a quick and easy crocheting project that can be completed in one sitting...

skinny scalloped scarf

blessings,

Grace

postscript :: thank you so much to my new followers!! extending the warmest welcome to my crafting corner.

let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

2011-12-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

where I live, unfortunately, we do not receive a lot of snow. sometimes I close my eyes, dreaming of a white wonderland to open up before when I open my eyes; wishing for a white Christmas.

sadly, that is not to be in this part of California, but I can make lovely snowflake decorations for Christmas! so here's to my fellow dreamers to wish for a white holiday, even if winter says it's not to be. :)

{via pinterest}

>> snow flake patterns <<

// how to cut paper snowflakes //

>> crocheted snowflakes <<

blessings,

Grace

::mondays recipes and an update ::

2011-12-03T09:46:00.001-08:00

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... everywhere you go..."

This is Miss Gabby again with Monday's recipes! Don't these just look scrumptious?! I hope all your homes begin smelling with delicious Christmas baking aroma after looking through this list :-) Have fun!

pumpkin pie smoothie

gingerbread cheesecake

mini rasberry whoopie pies

vanilla macrons

snickerdoodle cupcakes

lemon truffles

__________________________

update to all my lovely readers...

due to such a busy season, I {Grace} have decided to not continue with my Christmas event. don't worry, though!!! there will be plenty of Christmasy tutorials//ideas//gift guides coming, but I want to eliminate the "obligation" that I NEED to post something, then to let you all down. ;)

a HUGE thank you to all who have participated, especially my dearest friend Gabby for doing this for me. next year will be even better with ACTUAL giveaways and video tutorials and guest posters.

be sure to visit Samantha's blog who is doing a much better event that I put together. ;)

crafting by the tree {week no. 3}

2011-12-02T08:17:00.001-08:00

Hullo again! This is Miss Gabby from Inspired. And how was your Thanksgiving? Splendid, I trust?

Well, as the frantic rush to getting Christmas presents picked and made {let's not even mention packaging and labeling and sending and opening!} it's high time to be seriously looking at presents that are lovely, not too dreadfully hard to make, and handy to person you're giving them to. The list compiled below I really do hope inspires you at to make your gifts handmade.

knitted pouches

your assignment.
post on your blog your collection of crocheted//knitted projects that would be great gifts for Christmas. they do not have to be your own tutorials but tutorials that you have either stumbled upon on the internet and would like the try sometime or video tutorials on Youtube. include either a Christmas even button in your post or a link to this blog. comment leaving your link below. happy crafting!

pinteresting wednesday

2011-11-30T18:17:00.000-08:00

hello, dearies! I pinned a few things to-day that I know you will want to check out. ;)

free tag printables.

christmas sachets.

crocheted flower tutorial

tea tags.

hot chocolate mason jar.

christmas card tutorial.

card tutorial

embroidered card tutorial.

pocket card.

vanilla sugar.

christmas gift stationery diy.

advent calendar

{from country living}

bird seed ornament

your assignment.

log onto pinterest and gather a few of your favorite crafting // holiday finds. {note :: even if you don't have a pinterest you can still search it and copy the links} post them on your blog with one of my event buttons {or including a link to this blog}, and link back here to share them with everyone! happy pinning!

{leave a comment with your link ;)}

stitchin' sunday + handmade giveaway

2011-11-27T14:57:00.001-08:00

I have been completely awful concerning my event. honestly, if it weren't for my dear friend Gabby this event would be a complete disaster. *sigh* well, to-day I have gathered a lovely collection of handmade sewing tutorials which would be lovely gifts for friends or great stocking stuffers, and hope will make up. ;)

mini handmade sewing kit

reversible coffee cup sleeve

mini wallet

tea wallet

crochet hook clutch

little red riding hood doll

little cutie pouch

-------------------------------------

diy owl pin cushions

the video tutorial above is extremely helpful. I have been sewing a few of these for friends' birthdays and such, and one weekend I decided to fetch the old sewing machine and sew another one, only a bit smaller as I did not have a lot of batting. so I dug through my horribly disarrayed sewing drawer in search of some appropriate fabric and coordinating zipper, finding a white zipper and some red and white floral print. after seeing the finished results....*ah-ha!!!* it looked so christmasy, 'twas handmade, 'tis lovely to receive packages, 'tis the opening of the christmas season why not have a giveaway?

so to-day I am presenting to you a little handmade zippered pouch that was handmade by me. :) I hope that the blessed young lady who wins this will enjoy it just as much as I enjoyed making it.

yet, after looking at the pouch, I thought to myself. the pouch by itself needs something! thus I dove into my card-making box {I have a lot of boxes you know ;)} and busied myself with a few set of these ::

three handmade envelopes {made of cardstock} as well as...

and five handmade tags with lots of striped baker's twine and ribbon...

and why not add two hand-crocheted flowers to the package. ;)

all together the parcel that will arrive in the winner's mailbox will include ::

a handmade zippered pouch

three handmade cardstock envelopes

five handmade cardstock tie-on tags

two green//white striped

read below to find out how to enter!

>> rules to note ::

you must complete the mandatory entry.
you must leave separate comments per entry you complete.
when following my blogs, you must publicly follow.
this giveaway will end on the 11th of December and will be announced shortly thereafter.
this giveaway is open to young ladies living in US and Canada!

>> how to enter ::

mandatory entry | follow this blog.
follow my garden walk, add me to your pinterest, or etsy circle. {one entry each}
enter my weekly craft link ups [including the one below]. {one entry each one you enter}
tell me what you would like to see on this blog.
spread the word on your blog.
paste my REGULAR blog button {or link} on your sidebar or "favorites" list.
as a thank you to Miss Bethany for kindly designing my blog, follow her lovely grace of my reedeemer.
follow miss gabby's blog inspired.

{note :: all entries above are worth one entry unless otherwise stated}

alrighty, ladies! you may begin writing me promptly!

your assignment.

post tutorials that have to do with sewing. {they may be your very own or they can be ones you have stumbled upon over time [the ones above are not mine]}. YOU MUST include one of my buttons or a link to this blog in your post. after you have published your post, paste the link onto the linky below so I can see it!

etsy treasury tuesday {week no. two}

2011-11-22T17:13:00.001-08:00

I am quite sorry to have not posted these past few days. if it were not for my dear heavensent Gabby, I am sure I would be quite in a panic by now. ;) well, I have returned again and will {Lord willingly} schedule posts whilst I am away for Thanksgiving {though not ON thanksgiving} and soon thereafter publish a special surprise I have been fervently working on when I return. after that, as well I have some special guest posts lined up for you. *wink*

below, I have compiled a few of my favorite etsy shops that are amongst some of my favorits. you will definitely want to make sure to add to your fav. as well as your, "wishlist." :)

>> enter shop <<

the first of these shops I would like to introduce, is Wylde Ivy. filled with the most heavenly scents made of extremely fine quality.

>> listing <<

every product is specially and carefully handmade, for the pleasures of one's scent with the finest of products. ;) soaps, body sugars and creams, and perfumes, you will want to make sure to visit her shop and purchase something delicious for a loved one or perhaps, you could not resist giving it to yourself. :) with extremely fast shipping {two to three days!} purchasing from this shop is WONDERFUL for last minute gifts.

>> listing <<

I am enjoying this vanilla perfume currently {review on my main blog coming soon} which I love SO SO much that I could seriously use too much. :) The perfume as described on her listings are extremely long-lasting; a few drops of this lasts from morning until the evening.

// shop //

next we have Mary's lovely shop filled with a colorful array of lovingly handmade clutches, wristlets, and handbags!

>> listing <<

with extremely fast shipping {two days}, this shop is a great place to order last minute gifts.

// shop //

next up we have, whitney's delightful shop. filled with handmade journals, these notebooks are wonderful little gifts to give to friends...

>> listing <<

here are some more ideas for Christmas gift giving...

happy etsy shopping!!! {all shops above have been personally reviewed by me at my main blog, so that you can be self-assured you will receive the highest quality products and the best service possible. that's the beauty of product reviews. if you would like to be featured here in a review, or have a shop in mind that you would like to be reviewed, just let me know!}

:: monday recipes {week no. 2} ::

2011-11-20T06:08:00.001-08:00

Cooking...baking...tasting...laughing... it's one of the most memorable of Thanksgiving and Christmas occasions no? Balancing a million and one things in the kitchen, children running underfoot begging to taste the batter (shh- don't say anything, child) and you taking a glance every now and then at the age old recipe that was passed down for generations.

There are so many puddles and puddles of recipes on the web it's hard to begin! Here are a collection of recipes that compliment the holidays- as well as the taste buds.

hot chocolate

Cinammon roll pumpkin vanilla sheet cake

soft pretzels

chocolate pecan pie

blueberry pie tartlets

lemon burst cookies

hot chocolate cookies

lemon meringue cookies

molten chocolate cakes

baked pumpkin spice donut holes

peppermint patties

The below recipe is a favorite of mine and it turned out *so* well, I recommend it to everyone! Whether you are having an elegant tea party or a rustic-down-home-get-together. It works.

{Adapted from Paris Pastry}

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup packed light-brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick-cooking)

Instructions:

- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush an 8-inch square baking pan with butter. Line bottom and two sides with a strip of parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on both sides. Butter paper, and set pan aside.

- Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, and beat until combined. With mixer on low, gradually add Baking Mix; mix just until combined. Mix in ¾ cup oats. Pour batter into prepared pan.

- Smooth batter evenly. Sprinkle with remaining oats, pressing gently to adhere. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool in pan 30 minutes.

- Using overhang, transfer blondie (still on paper) to a wire rack to cool completely. Place on a cutting board (peel off paper); using a serrated knife, cut into 16 squares. Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Alright dears, I shall leave and let y'all rush off to the kitchen in that good old frantic Christmas spirit! Have fun and experiment! And believe me... no desserts EVER get turned down.

-Gabby

your assignment.
post your favorite holiday recipes on your blog/facebook/pinterest etc., coming back here and sharing with us {by entering you link below}! please include a link to this blog or if publishing on your blog, one of our buttons on my sidebar. happy baking! {note :: again, the recipes do not have to be your own but please make sure you give proper credit}

:: crafting by the tree thursday {knitting//crocheting tutorials} ::

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the last time you made something? Or worked on a project that just totally made your day when it was finished? It's that wonderful "I-made-something-all-by-myself-feeling."
Creativity... Inspiration... While all you burst with enthusiasm and love of this wonderful thing we call creativity, did you know you reflect your Creator when you do this? My God was inspired once. He made the world and loved it very much. He found that what he made, was very good. I encourage all you Christian ladies, to pick up that embroidery hoop, needle and thread, old sewing box, crochet hooks and express the very thumbprint of God.

I've compiled a little... okay, rather long list of tutorials//patterns//diys et cetera.

Mug warmer

Leg warmers

Spiral knitted leg warmers

Crocheted basket diy

Crochet flowers

I dearly hope this list has inspired you to make this Christmas, a handmade one.

Love,

Gabby

your assignment.
post on your blog your collection of crocheted//knitted projects that would be great gifts for Christmas. they do not have to be your own tutorials but tutorials that you have either stumbled upon on the internet and would like the try sometime or video tutorials on Youtube. include either a Christmas even button in your post or a link to this blog, and enter your post's link below. happy crafting!

:: pinteresting wednesday {week no. one} ::

2011-11-16T14:20:00.000-08:00

{via}

hello, dear readers! welcome to my event's wednesday pinterest link up! now, before we start, all credit of this idea goes to the vintage apple, but because some of the content posted on the blog was inappropriate to my standards, I stopped entering her weekly pinterest link up. loving the idea so much, I wanted to incorporate it into my christmas event, but again, to be completely honest and give proper credit, this idea is from this site.

for those who do not know what pinterest is, you may be asking yourself, "what is pinterest?" this image {from pinterest} pretty much explains it all...

{via}

pinterest wednesday posts {say that three times fast} will be comprised of eclectic {somewhat random} images and tutorial links {found on pinterest} to inspire the crafter in you for the holidays.

{this week's inspiration}

{via}

now that you've got your creative juices flowing are you ready? let's get started!

____________________________________________

>>pine cone fire starter<<

>> thread holder printables <<

>> anthro bracelet set <<

>> cranberry maple mini loaf <<

>> hot chocolate on a stick <<

>> hot chocolate bar <<

>> gift card holders <<

>> advent calendar <<

>> vintage postcard calendar journal <<

>> composition book cover <<

>>crocheted mini nature pouch // necklace<<

your assignment.

:: etsy treasury tuesday {week no. one} ::

2011-11-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

hello, dear readers! to-day I will be sharing some lovely etsy finds perfect to give as holiday gifts!

I apologize for the linky dis-function earlier this week. :) also, I completely forgot {as it was so last minute} that one of my dearest friends Miss Gabby shall be posting twice during the week {on baking day and on Friday} so do be sure to give her a warm welcome! also, there will be a few guest posters on Fridays as well. ;)

xoxo

monday recipes :: week no. 1

2011-11-14T07:51:00.001-08:00

Hello lovelies! I am Gabby, a homemaker in training, a fellow old fashioned heart, a daughter to my loving parents and heavenly Father. Dark brown eyes, brown hair and a lover of all things whimsical//old fashioned//lovely//crafty//knitting//crocheting//paper-crafts...{To sum me up... I am Grace dear's twin sister... *sighs* I wish}.

My dear "twin sister" has invited me to partner with her these few weeks in making a lovely handmade Christmas. Join us will you?

Recipe Monday!

Think:: Moist, sweet, slightly spicy crumbs everywhere. Thick delicious creamy homemade vanilla icing, simply oozing off the thick soft pumkiness.
Here's the recipe:

{Pumpkin Spice Bars}

Ingredients:
4 eggs
2 c. sugar
1 c. oil
1 16 oz. can of pumpkin
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 11 x 18 cake pan.
Blend together wet ingredients and the sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger, and cloves. Spread into cake pan gently. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a nice orangish brown. Let it cool completely in it's pan before icing.

{Cream Cheese Icing}

Ingredient:

3 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/3 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. powdered sugar

Cream all the above ingredients together... and spread on cooled pumpkin bars. Cut the cake to make about 40 bars.

*note* make sure the icing is NOT cold when icing the bars!

{via}

Alrighty m'dears! I shall leave y'all to these recipes. And like Grace has said, even if you can't get to them this year, there's always the next year for you to come back to!

happy baking monday!
Gabby

{your assignment}

post your favorite holiday recipes on your blog/facebook/pinterest etc., coming back here and sharing with us {by entering you link below}! please include a link to this blog or if on your blog, one of our buttons on my sidebar. happy baking! {note :: again, the recipes do not have to be your own but please make sure you give proper credit}

stitchin' sundays {week no. one}

2011-11-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

welcome to my old fashion, handmade christmas event "stitchin' sunday" week one! I am so happy that you could join me to-day in my parlor and pray that these tutorials that shall be posted throughout the weeks would bless you and be found useful during this holiday season. even if you do not use them this year, 'tis always nice to have a few project ideas tucked away for the next year...

:: stitchin' sunday week no. one ::

little button pouches

{by see kate sew}

lined zipper pouch // make up bag

ruffled zipper pouch

drawstring bag

{by raising homemakers}

trim boxes

{perfect to keep everything organized. ;)}

believe me. there are MANY more tutorials to come even though to-day was a bit sparse. :) now, here's what you need to do ::

{your assignment}

{one} post tutorials that have to do with sewing. {they may be your very own or they can be ones you have stumbled upon over time [the ones above are not mine].

{two} YOU MUST include one of my buttons in your post.

{three} after you have published your post, paste the link onto the linky below so I can see it!

{note: I hold the right to remove any links}

happy crafting!!!

{note: please let me know if any of the links are broken. thank you!}

let's make this christmas an old-fashion handmade christmas {intro}

2011-11-13T08:30:00.000-08:00

there seems a magic in the very name of

Christmas...

~Charles Dickens

just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling too, come on it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you!

hello, deary! welcome to my crafting parlor. oh, let's get you out of the cold, for you do appear chilled indeed. here, sit by the fire and enjoy a cup of nicely brewed tea or chocolate perhaps? there now, how is that? 'tis quite chilly out there, no? well, I am very happy that you have called upon me on this winter's afternoon. this shall be grand fun! a bit of sewing or knitting upon your lap on a cold winter's day is such a cozy thought indeed.

freely you have received, freely you give...

{matthew 10:8}

we shall have grand fun, shall we not? there shall be baking and sewing and knitting all to the beat of the cheery fireside's crackle. this Christmas is going to be very special indeed, for we shall not be giving gifts made from the store having not a soul to touch, but we shall be making this Christmas...

AnOld-Fashion Handmade Christmas

perhaps, ye would like to hear how this old-fashion Christmas event was inspired, eh? well, 'twas a winter's night long ago whence I sat by the cold window and looked out of the frosted pane dreaming of a Christmass spent long ago. presents wrapped carefully settled under the spicy pine; within them nestled gifts all made by hands of sweet aunts who sewed rag dolls from last years dress, worrisome mothers who cared to have their children warm in hand knit scarves and mittens, father's who lovingly carved wooden nativity sets and toys for their sons and daughters - for all was but a simpler time focused and devoted to family and God's wonderful gift to mankind. freely we have received from Christ, freely our hearts yearn to give and bless others sharing God's love during this Christmas season. {{read last year's original post here}}

now having settled down by the tree let us look at our crafting table ::

november 13th ~ december 24th

{seven weeks of tutorials and christmastime fun!}

weeks shall consist of...

:: stitchin' sunday ::

{sewing tutorials, link up}

:: baking day monday::

{recipes, link up}

:: etsy treasury tuesday ::

{etsy shop finds}

:: oh, how pinteresting wednesday ::

{pinteresting finds and gift ideas, link up}

:: crafting by the tree thursday ::

{knitting and crocheting tutorials, link up [guest posts?]}

:: decorating friday ::

{christmas decoration diy}

:: wrappin' it up saturday ::

{wrapping up your gifts, link up}

ready to start crafting? let's get started!!! enter your link below and add my button {right} to your sidebar so I may know who's joining me!

spread the word!

2011-11-08T20:00:00.000-08:00

my old-fashion christmas event is just around the corner!!! so why not spread the word? the more the merrier is what I say!

facebook, blogger, twitter, etc. it doesn't matter where you spread the news. there are no giveaways planned or hosted during this event, but if you would like to sponsor I never will turn them down. I am thinking of putting together a little giveaway myself, but it depends on my time. :P

this is going to be so much fun. recipes, tutorials, etsy treasures, galore! all in preparation for Christmas. oh! I can already hear the sleigh bells ringing!

also, guest bloggers....yes, I haven't forgotten you even though you think I have and should be contacting you shortly so keep checking your inbox!

lovingly,
Grace {a.k.a. the frantic crafting girl}

paper and strings. {sneak peek}

2011-11-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

i don't know about you but I like packages. okay, i like them a lot. and I love giving presents just as much if not more {if that, sounded prideful, I'm quite sorry. :P} wrapping should be just as important as the gift! it's like the "first impression," when one receives it. a beautifully wrapped parcel will make the person impatient to open it, yet hesitant as she will not want to ruin the wrapping. ;)

{via pinterest}

{*disclaimer, not my photograph. link to tutorial coming soon}

{via pinterest}

{tutorial link coming soon}

{via pinterest}

can't wait for more? stay tuned until November 25th!!!

lovingly,

Grace

diy projects {{to occupy your "spare time"}}

2011-10-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

^^^ ah, this title makes me laugh....what spare time???

good gracious, I have a HUGE list compiling all of my gifts I need made by hopefully, the end of November so I won't be stressing out during the Christmas celebrations. :)

:: upcycled scarflette ::

:: messanger bag ::

:: knitted apple ::

:: rolled rosettes ::

I seriously cannot wait until my old-fashion Christmas event!!!

postscript :: special thanks to Miss Gabby for sending me the sweet little birthday surprise! I am blessed with the best sisters in Christ! ;)

new look

2011-10-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

so my crafting room has been re-decorated by an amazing person. you like?

all thanks to one of my dear, most talented friend...

Miss Bethany Grace!!!

to thank her, could you do a favor for me and visit her awesome blog {what used to be Joyfull Girl Creations} and perhaps, stay awhile?

a H-U-G-E thanks to Miss Bethany for kindly designing my little crafting blog.

she did an amazing job, no?

I will not be posting tutorials on this blog so I can stock up for my Old Fashion Christmas even which is happening next month!

falling in love tutorial/project ideas collaboration

2011-10-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

autumn. crisp air throughout the day. cloudy mornings and breezy afternoons. after a long day of frolicing through the leaves, coziness is an instantaneous reaction. a perfect time to decorate and fill the kitchen with both spicy scents and heavenly warmth.

:: decorations ::

:: fall ombre rosette wreath ::

:: embroidery hoop door hanging ::

:: fall leaves felt bunting ::

>>project idea<<

:: fall leaves garland ::

:: fabric acorns ::

:: fabric pumpkins ::

xoxo,

Grace

postscript :: you may find more handknit autumn tutorials here.

crimson dreams and ponderings

2011-10-20T19:30:00.000-07:00

mmmmm. just the word - c r i m s o n - forms a picture in my mind of warmth and complete, velvety perfection as well as it being one of the main colours of an autumn/holiday pallet. there is something that lures me to the colour. perhaps the mere sound of the name or the deep red goodness that my eyes drink feast upon when I see a leaf or tree kissed with the deep tint of crimson.

crimson scarves. crimson earwarmer. crimson fingerless gloves. crimson socks. i seriously would have at least one thing out of my wardrobe and accessories the color crimson. it's just an alluring color of autumn. :)

now perhaps you would like to ponder about crimson with me ::

{via}

crimson, handmade blankets to curl up in on a chilly autumn's eve...

{listing}

crimson cowl to bury yourself into...

{listing}

crimson mug cozy...

{listing}

crimson bow tie hair clip...

{listing}

crimson fingerless gloves...

what color do you dream about?

to my crafting readers {knitters, crocheters, and sewers alike}

2011-10-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

when the air officially turns crisp and cold. trees begin to look bare as winter's grasp slowly seeps in. frosted rooftops sparkle in morning's bright dawn light peeping through the mist. chimneys filled with grey smoke, like a ribbon rising towards the sky. November. yes, sadly my dear october one of my favorite months is ever so slowly coming to a close and november will soon come upon us with more knitting and sewing to begin in preparation of Christmas. ah, the beloved, hectic, always-joyful-season of Christmas! yet, one of the "dark" clouds that looms over us crafters who make everything handmade. :)

you are probably wondering by now, why on earth am I thinking about Christmas already? well, because if you didn't know already I am hosting "An Old-Fashion, Handmade Christmas" event for the second year on this blog starting day after Thanksgiving. although there will be no giveaways, my old-fashion Christmas event is going to be so much fun filled with weeks of tutorials, etsy finds, and Christmas gift ideas.

okay, now onto the point of WHY I'm talking about this a month early. well, I need YOU. yes, you lovely amazing ladies who blow my mind away with your clever knitting, sewing, embroidery, crocheting, projects with your experience, advice, and tips.

during the event beside the weekly link ups, I will be interviewing you girls {who are interested} to give your "crafting" journeys, telling about the tips they either found through research or through trial and error. :) and, if you are even more willingly, writing up your own  tutorials.

so, if you want to be one of the young ladies interviewed during my Christmas event. then contact me!

have a lovely week!
xoxo,
-grace

october musings

2011-10-02T08:40:00.000-07:00

{{as Miss Johanna is "taking" over my garden - orchard - for the month of october, most of my life's updates will be posted here on my crafting blog.}}

happy october, readers! ah, the wonderful season has finally come upon us.

woolly socks.
leaves crunching under foot like crisp snow.
a basket filled with knitting.
breezes filled with leaves.
hot cider.
chimneys filled with smoke.
misty mornings.
golden sunrises.
spicy firesides.
afternoons filled with baking.
kitchens filled with the warmth of cinnamon.
trees filled with shiny, red apples.
cerulean skies dotted with fluffy clouds.
patchwork quilts to rest on.
oh, slouchy beret, handmade scarf, and cranberry colored fingerless gloves?
check. check. and check.

must I go on? and do not even get me started on my agenda for this month. too late.
a birthday every week, my six-year-old niece staying with us for a week, 1900's re-enactment, my good friend's birthday luncheon {we're going on a girls day out all on our own for the first time ;)}, my dearest friend from down South is coming up for a few days, and then, my birthday! {along with a shopping day with my mum. :)}

and if you read all of the text above, you are awesome.

so what is your favorite part of autumn?

and of course, it just wouldn't be right not to have a tutorial to post ::

crocheted coffee cozy

updates

2011-10-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

be sure to visit my main blog for an event that my dear friend and I have compiled for you ::

event includes :: fall fashion, tons of giveaways {with over 20 sponsors}, tutorials of all types, etc. etc.

diy project :: vintage postcard calendar journal

2011-09-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

alright, when I stumbled upon this idea on pinterest, I immediately put that on my crafting list. *squeal* I love this idea, but can you tell how much? :)
it's an awesome gift for journal writers, but its a really neat thing to keep for yourself as well.

vintage postcard calendar journal

I think I shall make one and start the "first entry" on the new year. :)

diy project :: mini envelope surprise

2011-09-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

can you spell a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e.?

I don't know if you know this or not, but I am huge fan of mini buntings and envelopes. so while I was browsing tutorials, I found this adorable tutorial that I simply must try someday...

wouldn't this just be precious as a "sweet-little-something" found in a letter???

mini envelope surprise

beauty recipe of the week :: homemade rose cream

2011-09-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

{via pinterest}

:: homemade rose cream ::

6 fl. oz. Almond oil
2 oz. Beeswax
1 heaping tsp. anhydrous Lanolin
1 tsp. Borax dissolved in 4 fl. oz. Rosewater
2 tsp. Zinc Oxide rubbed into a smooth cream with 4 fl. oz. Almond oil
10-20 drops oil of Rose

Quantity: Makes enough for about three 4 oz. cream jars.

To Make: Heat the beeswax and the lanolin gently in a water bath. Do not let the wax simmer or burn. Remove from heat and add the Almond oil slowly. Add the zinc oxide-Almond oil cream beating the mixture continuously. Add the borax-Rosewater and beat until cool. Add enough oil of Rose to scent the mixture to your liking. Beat until cold with a small wooden spoon. Pour into three 4 oz. cram jars and let sit until solidified.

To Use: This makes an excellent everyday cream that can be used under makeup or as a moisturizer. Simply rub gently onto face, hands or throat. As a throat moisturizer the cream is excellent, especially when rubbed in with a large marble or small avocado pit. rub in gentle circular motions while looking up into the sky, thereby stretching and stimulating your neck muscles.

Why: Almond oil replaces necessary body oils; Rosewater is a gentle astringent and moisturizer replacing liquid to the cells and tightening the skin; lanolin is a potent emollient and very much like human oils; borax is a skin softener and will help to produce a very white cream while its disadvantage is that it often adds a grainy texture; zinc oxide is useful for healing reddened, sore or irritated skin.

in the recipe box {weekly link up}

2011-09-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to do this for a few months now, but just did not have time to launch the project. perhaps, some of you may not know that I keep a hopechest, storing away memories, special trinkets, and letters as well as items for the future : crocheted items, baby clothing, homemaking tips, etc.

{not my photograph}

well, as of late I have been wanting to extend my recipe box, so what a better way than to host a weekly recipe link up? and what a perfect time to do it, as autumn is coming upon us bringing with it the frenzied baking season. :)

here's how it works:

1. I shall post a recipe I have either tried out already or want to try out sometime.

2. If I have made the recipe before, I will give a review of it.

3. There shall be a linky at the bottom of the post for you to do the same!

4. Remember to include this post's link in your post so that your readers may head back here to learn how to link up as well.

as of now, I do not have a button for you to post, but I will try to make one soon. {if I have made anything unclear, please let me know.}

ready? let's get cooking. to-days recipe is inspired by fall.

this homemade pumpkin roll sounds so yummy and definitely will be put in my recipe box.

now it's your turn. what have you been cooking {or baking}?

giveaways

2011-09-11T15:57:00.000-07:00

One of my dearest friends, Miss Bethany, is hosting a lovely giveaway. Click here to enter.

Another one of my dear friends, Miss Bekah is hosting a lovely giveaway as well, giving away marigold seeds she and her mother dried themselves. Click here to enter.

Miss Samantha over at Simple Delights is hosting a September giveaway, giving away three PDF patterns of the winners choice. Click here to enter.

Miss Bethany and Miss Johanna are celebrating their three month point of posting on Royal Daughters of the King, with a HUGE giveaway that you simply MUST enter. Click here to join the celebration.

There are two beautiful giveaways being hosted at Ruby Jean.

Click here to enter to win a beautiful piece of jewelry and here to enter to win a $50.00 giftcard to a beautiful shop.

| how to gain sponsors for your blog {part i} |

2011-09-03T08:48:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot on this subject of late and wanted to share a few tips with the bloggers out there who would like to obtain more traffic on their blogs. best way to attract a crowd is one word :: giveaways.

everyone loves a good giveaway right, and the best is a handmade prize. but I do not always have the time to create a handmade prize or the money for shipping and supplies.

that's the beautiful part of etsy sponsoring.

it was not until this past year that I became really interested in opening my garden walk for sponsorships from etsy shops. I saw how many people's blogs being "sponsored" by a cute etsy shop, the owners willing to contribute one of her cute products for a giveaway! then I tried a few of my favorite companies first, not really interested in etsy, and was surprised how quick and willing some people could be. so when I began exploring etsy, a whole new world opened up. :)

to-day, I am going to be sharing with you a few tips that I have learned {through a little experience :)} to help you gain a few sponsors and a good amount of traffic on your blog ::

create an etsy account. if you have not done so already, do! you may say, "but I don't want to open an etsy shop!"
the wonderful thing about etsy is you do not have to open an etsy shop just for an account. And you can save all of your lovely finds in your treasury. once you have created an etsy account, you now have access to contact all your favorite etsy shops without disclosing your personal e-mailing address.

choose an etsy shop. the next step is to choose an etsy shop.
be observant. look at some of your favorite blogs, see what etsy shops have sponsored their blogs. ask yourself, has this etsy shop sponsored a lot of blogs or is new to the "sponsoring" world? sometimes if this shop has sponsored a LOT of blogs you might have two different responses when you ask them to sponsor yours :: they might be sweet and generous and completely head-over-heels willing or they might be overwhelmed and decline your offer. {I try to avoid etsy shops that have sponsored a TON of giveaways in the blogging world, unless I am whole-heartedly set on featuring their shop}.

learn what they support. I do not go in depth doing this, but sometimes if I see on the owner's profile a bad word, or if I see a weird concept to their shop, I would not like to endorse or support that on my blog and quickly dismiss it as a thought to being a sponsor.

choose a shop that goes along with your blog's theme. I've had a lot of etsy shops that had somewhat of a "gardeny" theme sponsor my blog, because my blog is a "garden." :)

view their sales. this is one of the most important things I look at when considering an etsy shop to be a sponsor {besides a blogging friend's shop} :: how high are their sales? if they have sales at least over the 100's I would say they are a pretty steady shop and would be willing to contribute at least something for a giveaway.

go knock on doors. can you keep a secret? most of the shops that sponsor me, I had to go out of my way {which isn't that hard :)} to ask them if they would be interested. I know a few blogs that have mentioned, "oh, yes and so-and-so shop sweetly asked if I would be interested in hosting a giveaway for them," but that has not happened to me...yet. :) it might to you, though!

be sweet. sometimes a little sweet talk does not hurt. I always start my messages, when I am about to ask them if they are interested in sponsoring my blog something like, "Oh, I love your shop!" or "I just recently stumbled upon your lovely shop and absolutely love all of your sweet products. It has been so fun browsing through your items."

well, that's all for to-day. I hope that what I have posted thus far will be a help to you.

be sure to read part two in my next post where I'll share a few more tips.

thank you for reading and happy etsy browsing!

xoxoxo,

Grace

an autumn dream...

2011-09-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

hello, september!

ah, september has come upon us, and dreams of autumn crafts are swirling within my head as the leaves which are about to fall shall soon swirl in the autumn wind...

although the weather here in CA is still 100's, since my studies have begun and I have stayed indoors, the house carries an autumn chill about it, and it inspires me to get out the old knitting needles and yarn basket. I dream of beautiful rich crimsons, neutral greys, gold and copper, and burnt orange colors...

here are some lovely autumn etsy finds ::

happy september, readers!!! what is your favorite autumn color?

see a shop you would like featured here? leave a comment!

diy project :: simple mini heart envelopes

2011-09-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

want to learn how to turn this paper heart...

...into this?

paper heart envelopes

from the blog ::

diy projects :: handkerchiefs

2011-08-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

{click image to view tutorial}

monogrammed handmade handkerchief

beginner sewing handkerchief

2011-08-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

have a product you would like to be reviewed or a specific shop in mind? leave a comment or contact me using my e-mailing form!

when I get back home soon, I really want to do more product reviews here and on grace's garden walk. people who sponsor a product review will receive a month of advertising on my sidebar.

have a shop that you really like and would like to see it featured here? just leave the link in a comment!

love always,

Grace

oh, how pinteresting wednesday

2011-08-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

{{food}}

{fresh from the garden}

{appetizers}

{main course}

{sides}

{dessert}

{{fashion}}

summer dress

{I want these so badly. :)}

{hair}

{{crafting}}

{{photography}}

{{words}}

diy project :: storybook paper flowers

2011-08-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

storybook paper flowers

diy project :: all about rosettes {variation collection no. 1}

2011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

fabric rosettes

{click on image to view tutorial}

rolled fabric rosette headband

diy project :: rosette hair pins

2011-08-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

tea time rose hair pin

I am so sorry I haven't been posting any tutorials on here as of late. I'm in search of some good ones, so if any of you have ideas that you would like me to research or want to share one of your own, then do not hesitate to let me know!:)

paper and twine

2011-07-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

brown

paper packages

tied up with strings...

{via}

...these are a few of my favourite things.

look what I found in the mail! {product review}

2011-07-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be doing a product review on my blog! It is so fun to receive little treasures in the mail from your favorite Etsy shops.

For those who do not know, Melissa, owner of the lovely shop Whimsy Pics and a few months back she generously sponsored my May Garden Party at my Garden Walk. She also agreed to sponsor a product review as well, allowing me to choose something of my liking from her shop.

After a difficult decision and a few weeks of anticipation, look what I found in the mail this afternoon ::

It was a hot walk down to the mailbox and back, but it was worth it to see a parcel, buried under all the other mail, addressed to me. :)

The tags came in a pretty parcel tied with strings...

...and a sweet note tucked inside.

Melissa kindly sent me a set of five lovely tags...

Are these not the sweetest tags that you have ever laid your eyes on???

Each tag has a pretty rose glued to it...

...as well as a tiny sparkly in the corner. :)

I am so excited to use these on little, handmade presents for friends...I'm afraid, though, I do not want to use any of them because they are so pretty! :)

Thank you so much, Melissa, for allowing me to do this!!! I pray that your business flourishes this year and that you are blessed for your generosity.

Now, readers, go purchase something from the lovely shop Whimsy Pics to add a little whimsy to your life.

Love always,
Grace

~Disclaimer~

All thoughts, writings, and photographs are of my own. Photographs were taken and edited by me.

I was not paid or requested to write up this product review, but was blessed to have the opportunity to do so.

diy project :: ruffled, zipper pouch

2011-07-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

zippered pouch

I am in love with ruffles, so when I came across this tutorial, happiness overcame me. :)

diy project :: sweet, old-fashion pincushion

2011-07-17T22:27:00.000-07:00

charming wrist pin cushion

Are these not sweet? I do adore little pincushions. :)

{late} etsy treasury tuesday :: lavender dreams

2011-07-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

I am in love with lavender.

Summer is when the lavender blooms and when dreams soar through the fields...

diy project :: pop up spring flower card

2011-07-12T10:09:00.000-07:00

3D spring flower card

Although, I did not make the entire card, I tried my hand at a few of the flowers, and love the look.

It's super easy and cute as well.

diy project :: simple pillowcase

2011-07-07T18:23:00.000-07:00

pretty quick pillowcases

I think that making your own pillow case is a great idea! Wonderful gift for the home and great addition to your hopechest. ;)

Here is a video tutorial as well:

recipe :: spicy summery pasta salad

2011-07-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

spicy pasta salad with smoked gouda

This looks SO yummy and perfect for summertime.

diy project :: book bag

2011-07-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

summer reading library book bag

If you want to be me, you love books,

If you are like me, you love historical fiction,

And if you are exactly like me then you read...A LOT.

Then of course, I haven't had time to read as of late, but thankfully, that has all changed and now I am trying to stock up on my reading list!:)

Anyways, I love the concept of this bag!:)

diy project :: fabric flowers {variation collection no. 1}

2011-07-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

My, my. *tsk, tsk* How naughty I've been and not posted on here!!! When I take my July break next month, hopefully, I shall have some scheduled post for ya'll so you do not die of complete and utter boredom! :P

~~~~*~~~~

To-day, I've got quite a collection of craft tutorials for you. More specifically craft tutorials concerning:

fabric flowers.

boutique flower

festive posies

Here is a variation of the Marie Madeline Studios Posie:

fabric flower

lovely fabric flower

box fold felt flower

pop garden scrap flowers

yo-yo flowers

More fabric flower tutorials coming soon....

diy project :: gathered camera strap

2011-06-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

gathered camera strap cover

I absolutely love this...so much! I hope to make this one day for my camera.

etsy treasury tuesday :: summer colors

2011-06-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

When I think of summer, I think of...

{via}

Crisp, colorful flowers...

{via}

And sky blues...

{via}

I think of deep maroons of succulent, sweet hand-picked cherries...

{via}

Light minty greens, and crisp creamy whites...

{via}

The earthy burnt oranges of freshly picked peaches...

{via}

A summer garden, filled with bursts of crimson...

{via}

The sea-greens of the ocean calling me...

{via}

Frills of romantic colors...

{via}

Garden greens, mustard yellows, and humming bird's shimmer...

{via}

Coral scarfs floating in the breeze...

{via}

And the chipping white of the cottage by the sea, with lilac borders and wild rose hedges...

What comes to mind when you think of summer?

father's day recipe :: classic chocolate cake

2011-06-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

{nothing is better than homemade chocolate cake}

My daddy is a pretty big lover of chocolate {as am I ;)}, and I usually make a chocolate-related desert for a special occasion. For Father's Day this year, I decided upon making him a classic chocolate cake.

hershey's "perfectly chocolate" chocolate cake

With just the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolaty taste, the most heavenly frosting, and easy to make {with no complex ingredients}, this chocolate cake can be whipped up within an hour {perfect for last minute ideas}. This recipe is also found on the box of the Hershey's unsweetened chocolate powder, along with the frosting {and a most delicious hot chocolate recipe}.

diy project :: strappy camera lens pouch

2011-06-18T18:07:00.000-07:00

how to make a strappy camera lens pouch

This is so cute! I would love to make this for my telephoto lens when I'm on nature trips and such.

This tutorial is from:

{note: I do not endorse, support, or agree with all the content on this blog}

diy project :: patchwork button pouch

2011-06-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

how to make a patchwork button pouch

If you haven't noticed already, I am a big lover of clutches, wristlets, and purses in general, but have yet to make my own!:)

For those who like a little quilting project, this cutie is oh-sew-sweet!:)

recipe :: petite vanilla bean scones

2011-06-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

petite vanilla bean scones

Don't these look simply scrumptious??? I absolutely love ordering the little vanilla bean scones in Starbucks, but homemade ones would probably taste amazing!:)

diy project :: infinity scarf

2011-06-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

infinity scarf

I think this is adorable! Light and stylish, whip one up with some fabric with cheery colors, this project is perfect for summertime.

This tutorial is from:

diy project :: little letter needle book

2011-06-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

little letter needle book

I am so in love with these cuties!!! Someday I want to whip up a whole "batch," and ship them off to friends.

Cuteness!

spa recipes {part I}

2011-06-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

Ahhh. Everybody loves a good spa day to relax and unwind, as stress melts away.

You may be one that doesn't enjoy people touching your feet {or vice versa}, but I'm sure you like pampering yourself just a little with a refreshing lip balm or lotion. When it comes to spa recipes, I am all for one who wants to use good quality, fresh, organic items to make your skin feel healthy and fresh.

With these recipes, spa days don't have to cost $33! :)

{via}

homemade lemon toner

Toners are a nice way to involve a little pampering everyday {and it's so healthy for the skin!}. Substitute different oils to make toners with lavender or rosewater. Pour into a pretty glass bottle, tie with ribbon, and share with a friend, or pour into a spritzer bottle, chill in the fridge, and spray on a nice hot summer day for the perfect refreshment.

Use daily after washing your face and say bye, bye to dirt and hello to healthy, fresh skin!

{apply with cotton ball and dab onto face :)}

{via}

homemade lavender salt scrub

~ingredients~

epson salts

lavender oil {make sure it smells like good lavender}

fresh or dried lavender buds

Mix Epson salts, a few lavender drops {to your liking}, and lavender buds in a bowl. Pour into warm or cool water {warm preferably}, stir until mixed in water. Great for baths or foot soaks. For foot soaks, add rose petals for feminine touch.

diy project :: summer wristlet

2011-06-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

end of the summer wristlet tutorial

*happy sigh* I have been admiring this wristlet since the first time I found the tutorial.

Just omit the words end of and this will be a fabulous little purse for the warm summer months.

diy project :: pinwheels

2011-06-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

{my first non-blog tutorial! *smile*}

How to Make Rosette Pinwheels

I am so in love with these whimsical creations.

Picture above = happy sighing me :)

diy blog designing {part III} more blogging tips...

2011-06-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

his is an awesome site, I just stumbled on.

You can find some really neat decorative letters, specifically designed to spice up your post.

{i'm loving this one!}

So click HERE to visit the Daily Drop Cap...
{please proceed with caution on the letter Y }

how to spice up your comments

{I found this tutorial here.}

I have always wondered how to italicize, bold print, and link words or phrases in a comment. And when I looked it up, it's SO simple!

Just type this code: <i> before and after the word or phrase you want to italicize.
<b> before and after each word or phrase will make the words in bold print

You can also mix them together to make bold, italicized, and linked words or phrases.
{click link to learn more}

how to number your comments

This tutorial is NOT mine. I snatched it a while ago, when I heard the blog tutorials were closing down. Ya'll may remember Awel who used to design blogs at "My Designer Girls;" she did this tutorial that is so helpful and very useful when hosting a giveaway.

{I think she is currently the writer of Shilah, but please correct me if I'm wrong}.

1) Go to Layout in your blog and then click on Edit HTML. Above the box with the HTML in it, on the top-right hand corner is a small check box with he words "expand widgets" beside it. Check that box.

2) Now for the next part, it would be easier to find the obscure code if you used the search box for the HTML. To open the search box, on your keyboard click CTRL and then F while holding down CTRL (CTRL + F). A white toolbar like thing will pop up at the top of the screen. In the box preceded by "Find:" type in the following code (if you cannot find it, see TROUBLESHOOTING below):

<b:loop values='data:post.comments' var='comment'>

3) Hit enter and it should take you to that exact code. Now, just above/in front of that code, paste this one:

4) Now, write this code in the Find: box:

<data:commentpostedbymsg/>

5) Below that code paste this one:

<span class='numberingcomments' style='float:right;font-size:20px;'><a expr:href='data:comment.url' title='comment link'><script type='text/javascript'>commentscounter=commentscounter+1;document.write(commentscounter)</script></a></span>

6) Now, hit "Save Changes". Normally you want to preview it, but you can't look at comments in the Preview. So go to your blog and click on your link to your commments. You should see lovely numbers to the left of them. :)

{you can view the results at the bottom of this post}

diy blog designing {part II} how to add a reply button to blogger comments

2011-06-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

This blog post came into my blogger update box this morning, and I was instantly curious about it. When I saw the results, I thought it would be great to test out on this blog. :)

Click on the image below, to learn how to add a reply button to your blogger comments:

This tutorial is from the blog:

{click to visit}

{the tutorial above I have personally tested on this blog {see comments for example}, so I can 100% guarantee that they will work, yet results may vary depending on different blog templates}

diy blog designing {part I} how to make a blog button HTML

2011-06-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Going along with the theme of blog designing, I thought I would share with you a wonderful tutorial from the blog:

...on how to create your own blog button. Now, a lot of people are stumped when it comes to creating your own button, but this helpful step-by-step tutorial will get you started in no time.

Click HERE to read tutorial.

Let me remind you, that it might take a few times until you get your button just right, but make these ahead of time, and you can make a blog button within a few minutes. Once you've finished your code, I recommend saving it to a computer word processor first with your blog address filled in already.

This is what mine looks like:

<center><a href="http://gracesgardenwalk.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="blogbutton"><img alt="blogbutton" src="http://IMAGE WEB ADDRESS"/></a><center> </center> <center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://gracesgardenwalk.blogspot.com"><img border="0" src="http://IMAGE WEB ADDRESS"/></a></center></textarea></center>

Soon I just fill in the bold print with my link, and I've got a blog button!:) If you need any help, I'll be glad to see what I can do.

Blessings,
Grace

Welcome!

2011-06-10T13:48:00.001-07:00

Welcome, readers, to my new blog One Stitch at a Time that I am ever so excited to be launching to-day Friday, June 10, 2011.

This blog was meant to be a test blog {and it still is *smile* [so pardon the mess that might come out of it]} but ended up into being a crafting blog, although I would call it more an archive of crafts and tutorials.

I was thinking of what tutorial I would like to feature first. Well, as of I have just been fiddling with the "complex" world of Blogger's HTML codes, why don't we start there?

Since this is a new blog, I wanted to have a fresh, crisp new look. If you are like me and are not experienced with HTML, CCS, Javascript, and whatnot thankfully, there is a wonderful resource

{by the talented Miss Bethany of Joyfull Girl Creations} to help those along the way.

{click to visit link}

So head on over to Bethany's blog to give your blog a crisp new template.

Check out this tutorial to discover a little blogging secret.

And, of course, my absolute favourite tutorial yet, how to do quote boxes, post titles in posts, and vertical lines. {SO helpful!} This you can find here.

Happy Blog Designing!

~Miss Grace~

{the tutorials above I have personally tested on my blogs, so I can 100% guarantee that they will work. [yet results may vary depending on different blog templates]}