Birds On A Wire Art

Thrifting this weekend, I came across these big bins full of old picture frames.

With prices as low as $1 each, I couldn't help myself and I picked out three lovely frames.

A little paint can make such a huge difference. I've learned that virtually anything can be spray painted. However they had a pretty limited selection of spray paint at the Hobb Lobb so I found some pretty acrylics.

For this project I also used a glaze medium and just a little bit of black paint.

Start by painting your frames. If you can, use spray paint because it really is a lot easier, or just paint a couple coats of an acrylic like I did.

While the paint is drying you can work on your artwork.

I used a dictionary for this craft but you could also use a large book. I would just recommend finding one with large pages and condensed text.

You can find super cheap books at thrift stores. They usually have a few dictionaries and other reference books.

I just happened to have this one laying around the house. I don't even remember the last time I actually looked up a word in a dictionary, funny how the internet has changed so much!

             I experimented with some other variations as well. There are so many options...

I used a glazing technique to give a couple of my frames an interesting look.

Mix some of your glaze with a smidgen of black paint.

And paint all over the frame. Make sure to get into the all the little nooks and crannies.

Wipe off with a rag and you'll have something like this:

Now all that's left to do is frame your art!

And find a spot for it to sit..

or hang.

I'm not sure what to do with this one...

 I was thinking about trying embroidery art. Allison at Little lovelies gives an awesome tutorial for this sweet little artwork:

So cute right?

Yesterday on Tuesday

Eisy Morgan

Somewhat Simple
Tatertots and Jello
The Shabby Nest



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New Camera

I got a new camera this weekend and I'm seriously in love.  I've been dreaming about getting a DSLR for months now and it was completely worth the wait. I didn't quite have the finances for it yet but my awesome Dad agreed to buy it and let me pay him back.

It's a Canon Rebel EOS T2i . I bought it together with an 18-55mm lens as a part of this package. 

Needless to say, I was snapping pictures all weekend long. You know, pretending to be an artsy photographer...

Tutorial coming soon with this lovely fabric!

Aren't these shoes awesome?! They were plain white tennis shoes until a friend of mine drew all of these designs. I wish I had that much talent.

Previously, I had been using the Nikon Coolpix S8100. Which I must say is truly a great camera. If you're just wanting a simple digital camera that takes great pictures than I would absolutely recommend it.

I've snapped some great shots with the Nikon but sometimes it would take 5 or more blurry shots to get there. Here are some of my favorite pictures taken with my Nikon:

Dyed shoes. Find the tutorial here. 

The Nikon has served me pretty well up until now but it was time for the upgrade. The Canon gives me the crisp, clear shot I'm looking for every time.

Any recommendations of  How-to DSLR camera books would be greatly appreciated. I've got a lot to learn about all the different settings. 

Have a great day!

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A Little Bit Thrifty

One of my favorite things to do is upcycle clothing.  I frequent the thrift stores in my area. Sometimes I'll find all kinds of great things and sometimes I won't find anything. I think the key is to not really know what you're looking for.

I try to be open minded when shopping at secondhand stores. I often go to look for interesting fabric. You find garments from the 80's and 90's (Evidenced by the thick shoulder pads).  I look in the large women's dresses and long skirts, and when I find a print I love, I take it home to give it a new life.

 Sometime you'll find a dress that you love, only to find that it's three sizes too big. Don't let this discourage you. Taking in clothing to fit you is easier than you think. Sometimes all a big tent dress needs is a belt to cinch in the waist. If not, you can always take it to the sewing machine!

I found this skirt at a local thrift store for $3.50! It was originally marked $5 but, it was their sale day and I got it for 30% off. 

I loved the print but it was a few sizes too big. It just needed a quick stitch. Here's what I did:

Speaking of thrifting, has anyone seen that new show on planet green "Dresscue Me"? Similar concept. The show follows Shareen Mitchell who upcycles vintage dresses to be sold in her store. I've only seen a couple of episodes and I'm already loving it. It gives you a whole new appreciation for vintage.