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THE OSCARS!!!!

Posted in BLT Friday on February 22, 2013 | 1 Comment »

You all know this is my favorite!!!!! Though I’ll be a bit torn this Sunday between the Oscars and Walking Dead!!! But I guess that’s what a DVR is for…

So it’s been forever since I did a BLT!!! Here are my picks for an awarding winning weekend and night on the red carpet!

BLOG:

Just in case you missed it. Here’s a list of all the nominations with the added bonus of trailer links…(I love that)

http://oscar.go.com/

LOVE IT:

I don’t think these will be served at one of the post award banquets but I’ll certainly be munching on these Sunday evening!

A big thank you to Janie’s Kitchen for such a great recipe and beautiful picture!

Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts

(picture by Janie’s Kitchen)

TUTORIAL:

I wish I had the time and quite frankly the energy to host a big Oscar party but we all know that isn’t going to happen. But if it did this is where I would go for ideas/inspiration.

Catch My Party

Have a great weekend everyone and enjoy The Oscars!!!

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BLT #21

Posted in BLT Friday on November 9, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

Hey all!!! I know that the state of the world feels to many, like we are all on an express elevator to hell. But I’m thinking before we all arrive I’m going to continue to find the joy, in my family, my friends, my hobbies and in every aspect of my life.

That’s a bit dramatic for the weekly BLT but I was having a moment. So let’s jump in shall we!!! I have some fun stuff to share this week.

BLOG:

I was on Pinterest, using my time very unwisely when I came across a pin for a mug rug using an invisible machine binding. The link took me to a blog with the tutorial and I spent the next hour hypnotized by all the quilting eye candy.

Stitchery Dickory Dock

Considering this woman has 4 children all under the age of four I’m beyond impressed!! I guess why she sews at one in the morning!!! I’m totally smitten!!!!

LOVE IT:

Tis the season! And it is also the season for gaining a few pounds. This seems a yummy, “lighter” alternative…

PUMPKIN PIE MOUSSE by IOWA GIRL EATS

Pumpkin Pie Mousse by Iowa Girl Eats

TUTORIAL:

All I have to say is Leah Day!! For you new quilters that don’t know who she is…I’m happy to introduce you. I have a new guru!!! I’ve learned so much from her. And will be learning a ton more when I take her new online class with Craftsy.

If you interested in sharping your free motion quilting skills check out her blog site. There are over 365 FMQ patterns with videos for each!!! The only thing left to say is HAVE FUN!!!

http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.com/

Have a great weekend everyone!!

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BLT #20 -

Posted in BLT Friday on November 3, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

In the wake of this horrible monster of a storm I’ve felt a need to just be quiet, be with my family and to pray.

I’ve also be knitting and sewing. I’ll share those project with soon. In the meantime here is the usual Friday fare.

BLOG:

Tons of inspiration, tons of tutorials, tons of “eye candy”

Sew Take A Hike

LOVE IT:

Every single recipe on this site looks amazing!!! But this one!! YUM!

BAKED LEMON RICOTTA DONUTS by Technicolor Kitchen

Baked Lemon Ricotta Donuts by Technicolor Kitchen

TUTORIAL:

I’ve been looking for the perfect tutorial to make my own fabric labels. As some of you may know it can be a very expensive investment. In my meandering around Pinterest I found this link to Crafting A Green World. Hope you find it helpful as I have.

http://craftingagreenworld.com/2009/01/23/5-ways-to-make-your-own-fabric-labels/

Have a good weekend everyone!

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BLT #19 – The Halloween Issue

Posted in BLT Friday on October 26, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

Halloween is next Wednesday! Are you ready? The entire Earthtones Girl family have decided on costumes, just have to make a few accessories and we’ll be ready. I’m actually going to dress up this year. You might want to stay tuned for those pictures!

In the meantime here’s the newest BLT yall!!!

BLOG/BOOK:

More like comic book turned tv show…and the best one ever I might add. I’m straying a bit from the norm here since it’s Halloween. What I’m referring to is the awesome AMC series The Walking Dead. If you are in the mood for zombies, gore and horror topped with some freshly wiped morality, this is the show for you. I could go on and on but I’ll spare you. Go check it out for yourself.

LOVE IT:

Tell me these cupcakes are the cutest ever! Perfect for the kids (and adults). I’m think about making some of these for Kira on the big day.

BABY OWL CUPCAKES by Domestic Mamma

Baby Owl Cupcakes by Domestic Mamma

TUTORIAL:

If you are nuts like me and decide you want to make trick or treat bags for your child/children (or their entire school class), how about this one. Honestly if I’d had more time I would make these!! I love them. Maybe for next year. The tutorial is from one of my favorite stores, Purl Soho!!

CANDY CORN TRICK OR TREAT BAGS by Purl Bee

Candy Corn Bags by Purl Bee

Enjoy this week’s issue and I hope everyone has a great and safe Halloween!!

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BLT #18: The OPTIONS Issue

Posted in BLT Friday, Uncategorized on October 5, 2012 | 2 Comments »

I want options, I need options I can’t make a decision without options. Lots and lots and lots of them. To some people, that maybe confusing, overwhelming, frustrating. For me, it opens the door to endless possibility.

It amazes me sometimes how much is really available on-line for the those willing to go find it. I see hundreds of blogs out there by people sharing their finished projects. There are an equal number showing you how to make your own project to look just like theirs or a personalized version of theirs. I want to publicly thank you all for their hard work, amazing skills and most of all your generosity.

In my last post I mentioned using a bias tape maker. This is the tutorial I used. Clear, simple and to the point!!! (Ask and you shall receive Kim)

Bias Tape Tutorial by Quilted Cupcake

I have a little collection myself. (L to R) 1/2″, 1″, 2″.

Yes, I know I have to label them. If I had a dollar for all the things I have to do.

BLOG (Website):

But the resource I really want to tell you about is Craftsy. If you haven’t already checked it out you really should. I’m currently taking 6 classes all of which are changing the way I quilt and sew. And for you none quilters/sewers there are a ton of other classes exploring everything from scrapbooking to cake decorating (May…I’m talking to you)

Here’s what I’m taking…

The class that has really changed my approach to quilting is Inspired Modern Quilts with Elizabeth Hartman (www.ohfransson.com) She’s amazing. And the best tip so far…press your seams open!!!!! No more pressing to one or the other side, then nesting. While that works of course I found it very tedious and bulky. Pressing open makes for a much flatter, smoother surface.

I also love the Quilting Quickly series hosted by Jenny of the Missouri Start Quilt Co. Best lesson…there are no quilting police and yes, you can complete a quilt quickly. She is so fun and enthusiastic!!

The courses are set up in such a unique way and are so user-friendly. And the best part is I can “go to class” whenever and where ever I like. On line notes, Q & A forum…love it!!

And speaking of love it.

LOVE IT:

We all know it’s apple season but it’s also pumpkin season and Pinterest is suddenly flooded with pumpkin recipes…here’s one I’m going to try this weekend.

PUMPKIN POPPERS by Just The Little Things

Pumpkin Poppers by Just The Little Things

I want a big plate of these sitting next to me while I work on this week’s tutorial.

TUTORIAL:

While exploring patterns for my new love, Mug Rugs (check out my growing mug rugs pin board), I came across this pattern and, you know me, I dropped everything to give it a try.

Cute doesn’t even cover it!

LITTLE COTTAGE MUG RUG by The Sometimes Crafter

Little Cottage Mug Rug by The Sometimes Crafter

The personalizing possibilities are endless….Hopefully I’ll have one to show you soon. I’ve printed the template already…

I hope this week’s BLT has inspired and excited you. I’m beyond excited!!!

Have a great weekend everyone and Happy Creating!!!

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BLT #17

Posted in BLT Friday, Quilting Tutorials on September 14, 2012 | 2 Comments »

It’s Friday Yall!!! This is going to be a good one so grab a cup of tea and get to reading…

BLOG:

I found this one on Pinterest. I should stop saying that and just write a disclaimer that all or most BLT info comes from there, it will say us all precious reading time. That said, here it is.

Patchwork Pottery

Charming is the first word that came to my mind when I started reading. I’ve wished I had the time to create such lovely things with all those sweet little details. And now that my girl is in school I just may be able to find some. My problem is not getting caught up in the reading but actually doing. Honestly this blog will more than inspire and getting you snuggled up with your sewing machine.

LOVE IT:

Still on an apple kick! And why not, tis the season and who wouldn’t want a bite of one of these? Oh my heaven’s, I would!!! Right now please!!

Apple Pie Bars by My Baking Addiction

TUTORIAL:

I’ve got a great one for you this week. So in my daily life I tried very hard to live by the motto “Do one thing a day that scares you.” Now this isn’t scary but to a perfectionist like me it’s a big challenge with just a hint of fear. A challenge with the potential to push we over the edge. I like to get things right the first time I try them. Yes, that’s incredibly unrealistic but it’s pushes me. This one is really going to push me. Triangles!! Until now I’ve only worked with squares and easy quilt piecing but take a look at this.

Card Trick Quilt Block (tutorial) by Matt and Shari

Card Trick Quilt Block by Matt and Shari

Look at all those triangles. I feel a bit faint! But I’m going to give it a go…

Goal for the weekend…To complete a paper pieced or card trick quilt block. Wish me luck!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

And I promise to have a little sewing project up in my next post.

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BLT # 16

Posted in BLT Friday, Fall, Food, Quilting Tutorials, Sewing Tutorials, tagged Baking, Quilting, Sewing, Tutorials on September 7, 2012 | 1 Comment »

It’s Friday yall!!! Time for a BLT!!!

BLOG

In my never-ending search to improve my skills I stumbled over this little gem on Pinterest. This blog is so inspiring I don’t even know where to begin. Actually I do. My friend Kim, asked if I’ve been making any mini quilts, coasters, etc on any of my other sewing machines and the truth is no. For some reason, every now and then I need someone to point out the obvious. What a great idea! I can use my machines, learn new quilt blocks, improve my skills and not feel so guilty about having all my beauties just sitting around.

The thing that caught my eye about Charise Creates are her paper pieced blocks. I’m in love and have to learn immediately how do it. Thankfully she offers a wonderful tutorial on her blog and references some great resources. Hooray!!!! The timing couldn’t be better. Kira starts nursery school next week and I’m going to have some extra time on my hands. Win Win!!!

So go visit Charise Creates and be inspired.

LOVE IT

Another reason I love September and the fall are apples. Baked, Pies, Crisps, and now Cake! Oh yes!!

FRENCH APPLE CAKE by Joans Food Wanderings

French Apple Cake by Joans Food Wanderings

TUTORIAL

I just realized you’re getting 2 for the price of 1 in this BLT. This is another great little project I can work on with another machine. Maybe my newest after she’s cleaned up. The tutorial looks super easy and more sharpening on the skills.

OVEN HAND MITTS by The Idea Room

Oven Hand Mitts by The Idea Room

These would also make great holiday gifts. I’m aiming for much simpler and all hand-made this year. There’s that road to hell….just waiting for me.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

A side note: I’m in the process of blog house keeping so there will be some “in with the new and fresh” and “out with the stale and boring” (more like no longer necessary). I’m even thinking of changing the entire look to this (my friend Sara is amazing and her blog is beautiful) I’d love to know what you think?

Again, have a great weekend!!!

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BLT #15

Posted in BLT Friday, Food, Sewing Tutorials on July 13, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

Hoped you all enjoyed that little sneak peek of the Henry’s quilt. I’m almost done!! And don’t worry Daria, it’s a pleasure no pressure….

It’s Friday the 13th and I thought about doing something historical about the date but then thought, who cares. There are so many other things to chat about!!!!…And much more fun.

BLOG/BOOK:

PURE by Julianna Baggott

Just downloaded it!! Can’t wait.

LOVE IT:

BLUEBERRY BAKED OATMEAL

In a word…DELISH!!! Here are my step by step pics…I took these pictures about 2 1/2 weeks ago and have made this 3 times since.

All the above brings you to this!!!!! Heaven!!!

TUTORIAL:

We all need instant gratification in some form or another. When my projects are piling up and begging to be completed I just start another one that I know I can finish in less than an hour. Not to mention takes pictures of too, all during Kira’s nap time. It gives me the perfect “high”!

May be simple and boring to some but it makes me SO happy. And makes my sewing room look even more inviting.

IRONING BOARD COVER TUTORIAL

Before…functional but super boring.

A lovely Japanese print from City Quilter which I picked up 2 weeks ago. I have to show you the other fabrics I picked up. Gorgeous!!! My fabric stash is now in hard competition with my yarn stash.

I followed the instructions to the letter and it works but it’s a bit tight.

Another inch would have given a much better fit.

But I’m still thrilled. Project done, feeling of accomplishment achieved, ready to tackle the project mound and life too!!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!!

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BLT # 14

Posted in BLT Friday, Food, Sewing Tutorials on June 22, 2012 | 3 Comments »

Right on time this week…

I saw this blog & store on Facebook and it’s wonderful…it looks like a quaint little English shop where I could see myself spending many an hour (if I lived near by…have I ever mentioned that I whole heartily believe I was born and raised in England in another life?…oh wait I think I said that in my last BLT…)

BLOG:

That said…check it out

A Day In The Sewing Room

LOVE IT:

No scones this week! Actually I’m officially off dessert since I got on the scale this morning and literally gasped…that ain’t good! So I’m going light this week.

SUMMER SALSA

Summer Salsa by Be A Pot Stirrer

Doesn’t that look yummy and perfect for all this hot weather and much more waist-line friendly…(I’m really not liking my reflection these days…help May May!)

TUTORIAL:

Since I’ll be munching on that awesome salsa I won’t feel so bad sitting to make this for Kira.

BUTTERFLY DRESS

Butterfly Dress by A Day In The Sewing Room

It looks super easy and I can’t wait to give it a go. I have so many projects in the works right now I don’t even know what to do next….I really need some help….on lots of levels.

Have a great weekend everyone.

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BLT #13 The English Issue

Posted in BLT Friday, Food, Sewing Tutorials on June 15, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

This comment is from one of my readers and it’s one of the reasons I love blogging. Thank you Chante! I get SO excited when I hear from you all about something I’ve posted that’s inspired you.

“I read this post around eight this evening and I downloaded a sample of the first chaos book to my nook immediately after. It’s now eleven thirty and I’ve already downloaded all three books and I’m about four chapters in. I am totally addicted and now I have to recommend this series to all my friends so that I”ll have someone to discuss this with too. Thanks and I really love your BLT posts. I’m so glad you decided to bring them back. Now i’m off to find out what the eff the “quiet” is about.”

-Chante (one of my blog readers) and now lover of the Chaos Walking Triology

Just wait until you find out what the “quiet” is!!! You’re going to love these books. And I’d love to chat with you about them. I’ve been dying to talk to someone who’s read them…

Which leads me to this weeks BLT!!

BLOG/BOOK:

Got another book for you. I’ve been plowing through audio books lately. I wish I could just sit, read a book and sip a cup of tea but I think those days are over for a while. As soon as I sit down I start feeling guilty and thinking about all the things I should be doing (laundry, dishes, and other equally tedious house hold tasks). But I can do all the afore-mentioned and listen at the same time. Guilt Free!!! Win-Win all around.

So now I’m completely riveted to The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shafer and Annie Barrows. It is the polar opposite of the Chaos books and exactly what I didn’t know I was looking for. My aunt recommended it and when she recommends a book I run to get it. I don’t know which of us has a bigger appetite for the written word. And this book is the word at it’s best. I was laughing from the first chapter. I’ll keep ya posted as I progress.

LOVE IT:

Since this book is set in England (I swear I lived there in another life) and the island of Guernsey I thought it fitting to have some appropriate munchies to accompany me as I listen. My rear end would love it if I skipped this part but who can resist.

TRADITIONAL ENGLISH SCONES by Bird’s Party Blog

Traditional English Scones by Bird’s Party Blog

What’s interesting is just after the war (WWII, the time in which the book is set) making these would have been very difficult. Food coupons, rationing, etc. And to have the clotted cream…almost impossible. For those of you who have never had clotted cream (sounds a bit gross, I know) you haven’t lived. It’s worth being the sole reason one travel’s to England.

TUTORIAL:

I’ve been inspired to create a tutorial after seeing this PERFECT BABY GIFT on Pinterest. I just fell in love with it, rushed to buy the PDF but it’s sold out. So I’ll get to work and see what I can come up with. No idea when that will actually happen but I can dream…you never know….

A BABY BATH APRON TOWEL by BLISSFULpatterns