Witches Brew Served Here Weathered Wooden Sign

10 / 29 / 16

What do I love the most about my Cricut Explore and subscribing to Cricut Access? I love hitting the search button and having access to so many different design elements.

If you are a DIYer then here’s how I did it. If not, then book a class or attend a public one and you can make your own.

Instructions:

Start with a sign base. {This one is 4 boards put together as a 14×24 sign.}
White wash the wood with watered down acrylic paint.
Cut out images with vinyl and use negative space as a stencil
Dry in between layers with a craft heater or hair dryer.

The best part is when I removed the adhesive stencil of Witches Brew it pulled off some of the black paint and distressed it. So, I went along with it and lightly smudged the edges with black paint as well. I feel like it could be hanging up in an old time tavern. What do you think?

If you would like to see some other projects I have made for Halloween, just click here.

Until Next Time-

Happy Crafting!

Sarita

Wooden Sign Designs for Fall

9 / 21 / 169 / 21 / 16

I get really nervous! When someone wants to book an event I really want to make sure they are happy. If they have design suggestions, I am always open. If it’s reasonable I can usually come through.

Here are the samples I made for Linda’s private class.birthday. They chose some very popular designs that are all over Pinterest and Etsy. I made sure I created my own version, as I would NEVER use someone else’s project photo and pass it off as mine. I feel very strongly about that.

These photos are my creations. The best part of doing a class is that I know the guests will always do a better job than me. That is why I love to teach and share my challenges, so they don’t repeat them.

Harvest 12×24

6×36 Fence post cut perfect for Pumpkin Patch.

14×18 Welcome Fall Sign sets the tone for your home. What a fun way to welcome guests.

This class was no different. Melisssa added pumpkins to her Harvest sign and kept the background natural. Jessica made a few tweaks to personalize her sign even further. I LOVE that they felt confident enough to put their own spin on the designs.

This was their 3rd visit to my cottage. So they were no strangers to how it works. Melissa got her Pandora going, poured some wine that they brought and got right to work. It brings me so much joy to see how comfortable they are at my cottage.

Looks like fun right? My next class is Thursday Sept. 29th. I would love for you to join us, You can choose one of these designs or any one you see here, Designs to Choose From.

Click here to register and I will see you soon!

Sarita

From Raw Wood to Rustic in No Time

9 / 9 / 1610 / 28 / 16

What Happens When You Run Out of Barn Wood?

Since January of this year when I started this venture, the one question I have been asked the most often is, “What happens when you run out of barn wood?” Of course I thought that was silly. How could I ever run out? Well here I am over 200 signs later and the supply is running low. I have always been curious about working with natural woods, so I did some research and played around a little with techniques and the result was very surprising!

I had a group that was willing to come in and be my 2nd round guinea pigs. Melissa was my very first host and wanted to come back and celebrate her birthday! It was perfect timing!

We started with plain, natural pine. Boards were already assembled based on their design request and ready for their transformation.

Before Class_My Creative Cottage — Hard to believe this raw natural wood will look completely different after the girls are done.

The girls used various tools and techniques to make the wood appear distressed.

Step 2 Distress_My Creative Cottage — Needless to say they enjoyed this process. They got some serious stress relief!

My biggest concern using stain for these class projects was the smell. After doing some research, I opted for a natural stain option, which meant no smell! Here is a lighter version with fewer coats. So your color will depend on what you like!

Most of the girls went with the Black Tea Stain and it really settles into the wood quite nicely. They loved the outcome! My friend, Deanna, has started her own travel business so we worked together on her design to include her logo, along with the vintage compass.

Another guest used the same compass stencil design and hers looks very different.

Using raw wood also allows us to offer larger signs. This was requested by the birthday girl. One of her guests, Jessica, created hers using the same design, but different colors.

Family Name with Arrows — NEW! Family Names with Arrows 12×32

That is the best part, even though they all started out with natural wood, each sign was unique as the person making it!

Monogram #1 with arrows — NEW! A version of Monogram #1 but with arrows.

I also offered a color wash technique. Check this out! Look how the color settled into the knots in the wood. That is the best part. Each piece of wood differs as it has it’s own grain, knots and bumps that only adds to the character of your creation.

NEW! Welcome to our Home 12x24 — NEW! Welcome to our Home 12×24

It is so fun to see people taking risks and using their creativity. That’s what I love about my classes. I want you to feel comfortable and creative!

So, if you want to do that, just click here and book a class now! You only need 6 people and that includes you!

See you soon!

Sarita

Autism Awareness Month- Autism Moms BE AWARE!

4 / 12 / 164 / 12 / 16

I don’t know why, but as an autism mom myself, I chuckle at the idea of Autism Awareness Month. I get it. It’s a great way to educate people and bring it all to light. However, every day is autism awareness in our house. I imagine other families feel the same way. It can be a lot of doom and gloom. It can bring up feelings of jealousy at all the NEW screenings that are out there NOW that your child didn’t have back then. It can also make it hard on you because every year you want to “light it up blue”. If only you could remember to pick up that blue light bulb at Home Depot. You see, it can bring up a a lot of “If Only” and What If” thoughts in your head. Sometimes I find myself just counting down the days until this month is over so I can forget.

This year is a little different. April 19th marks the 9th year since Sofie’s diagnosis. She is almost 14 years old. Looking back at all of the progress she has made and where she is now is overwhelming. She plays soccer through the Rec. Dept. and was on the cross country team last fall. This spring, ironically, this month she will be a giraffe in the Lion King Jr. Musical at school. She sent me this selfie from her Iphone! I just need to let those words soak in for a minute.NEVER in my wildest dreams would I have seen this coming! She has been attending rehearsals until 8:00 at night and has become so responsible and accountable. Being a part of this has shown her that she matters. She knows that no matter how small the part, you still have to work hard, show up ready and practice a lot! Seeing her in this light I have to let you know what you really need to be aware of when it comes to the Autism journey.

Be aware of truly compassionate people who want to reach out, without any agenda.

Be aware of people who believe in your child more than you do.

Be aware of limiting your child because of your own fears.

Be aware of other autism moms. They need your friendship and someone who just “gets it”

Be aware there will be times you will dance in the kitchen just because your child did something remarkable, like spoke a complete sentence or expressed their own independent thought OR they just said milk please?

Be aware you will see life from a completely different perspective. This perspective will make you a better person.

Be aware you will give up on perfection. Yes, that means a messy house with Little People lined up like soldiers, rows of shoes on the living room floor or whatever their obsession may be. This is bringing your child some sense of comfort and control that he doesn’t have anywhere else.

Be aware you will grow in ways you NEVER could have without this child in your life.

Be aware there is a God that dreams bigger for your child than you ever could imagine.

Be aware that God has a plan for you. This is your journey too.

Be aware after reading this you might want to flip me off because you are just not there yet. That’s okay,” I get it.”

NEW DIY Barn wood Sign Class

12 / 16 / 157 / 14 / 17

I had a great turnout at my Christmas at the Cottage last month. We almost sold out of everything! The barn wood signs were extremely well received. We met new people and caught up with old friends. In conversation, the most common question was asked,

“Do you teach classes?”

I responded very honestly and said I used to, but would end up with no shows and cancellations. Those circumstances made it difficult to continue them. However, I would for groups that want to come in. You bring me your friends and pick a project.

So, we have a saying in this house. Well, it has always been more my husband’s deal, but I have adopted it recently. When someone asks you do something ( within reason of course), say yes. Even if you are not 100% confident how you will do it. Just say YES! Then you are more apt to follow through, instead of spurting out an instant no, which us ADDers are known for.

So, that is exactly what happened! In about a week we created sample projects for guests to choose from, constructed boards out of barn wood, created an online registration form and cut all the personalized stencils needed for the class.

The result was a happy group of 9 women, some my own high school friends, had a great night at my cottage. My friend, Joanne, assisted and it was a great success! So much, that they want to come back and so do many others!

They had 4 designs to choose from, 1 being a seasonal or holiday theme.

Monogram #1 Vertical_My Creative Cottage
Home State Sign
Monogram #2

These designs were loosely based on ones they had seen online. Going forward I will be offering these but other choices as well. After feedback from our guinea pigs or “focus group” we were able to come up with our pricing schedule and what we can offer groups.

Until Next Time-

Be Blessed!

Sarita

November Was Supposed to Be Different-{A Personal Note About Unplanned Gratitude}

12 / 1 / 15

I has such plans for my most favorite month of the year. I was ready to accept the “Gratitude Challenge.” I was going to post a super cute project and reflect on all the good things in my life. I was going to make time for me. I had a birthday coming up and of course my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving. I had all sorts of plans. Problem is November had a different plan for me. Moments that would fill me with “Unplanned gratitude.”

#1. Air Bags- Savana was in a car accident. Definitely up there as one of the scariest moments in my “mommyhood” thus far. She was on her way to school and she looked down for a second as she was looking for her phone. 2 seconds later her car was on the curb and she had hit a fire hydrant. No, she wasn’t texting. Ironically, her phone was at home. The air bags were deployed. I was never so grateful in my entire life for air bags.

She spent a good 4 days at home recovering. The whole time I couldn’t move. I couldn’t stand not being next to her for a second. Even when I had to go get her ice pack or medicine. I was so anxious. Then I remembered that I have a merciful caring Heavenly Father who loves her more than I do. Who loves me, more than I could ever imagine. He separated from his child too. He knew my pain. He would bring me through. He didn’t say it wouldn’t come without more struggles, like a totaled car. However, we would get there.

#2. Tennis Banquet and Bright Orange T-Shirts

The annual Tennis Banquet was a nice distraction and it reminded me that God always has a plan. I was grateful or this no cut team that gave Savana some great friends over the last 4 years. Also, for a coach that “got her” as she said. It gave me more peace knowing that as college looms I need to continue to put my child in His hands.

I keep holding on to that. Especially when the t-shirt came in the mail later that month. That big bold orange reminder that these times are precious and I need to find some peace and enjoy them.

#4. Older and Wiser Family- My cousin, who is more like a sister to me, and I spent some time in the cottage chatting and catching up. She is a gift. To know we have each other to lean on is a great feeling. Mostly because she has raised 5 children into adulthood. Her perspective is just what I needed. Then we went to see Ma, our grandma, who just turned 94 that day. She is in a wonderful assisted living home where she is treated like the queen she is! Realizing that she and I are almost exactly 50 years apart, made me smile about all the life I have ahead of me.

#5 Work. I love my work. I am so incredibly grateful that in the midst of all this chaos I can walk right outside to my little cottage and just breathe. This month was a little busier than most, with our 5th Annual Christmas at the Cottage. It was just what I needed. Here are just a few pictures from it.

It also gave me lots of bonding time with my good friend and fellow Autism Mom, Joanne. She created these great windows. Don’t you love them?

#6. The First Snow. It finally came and it was beautiful. It wasn’t the best timing, as it was smack dab in the middle of our event and caused some people to stay home. But that is okay too. Sofie spent the evening singing Christmas Karaoke with Joanne and running in and out between sips of hot chocolate. I am not going to lie. I could have used a little less of that “busy-ness”

#7. Sandals in the Snow- At the end of the night we were exhausted. Some of which came just from watching Sofie. Then,we opened up the door and we were met with this amazing view. It took my breath away and then I noticed that Sofie was in her snowpants and sandals! I was too tired to point it out. All I could do was laugh and take in her joy. As I grabbed my phone shaking my head and taking the picture I was thankful for the gift of stillness. It is rare in or outside our house. We are movers and shakers and often need this reminder. Any other time I would have yelled at her to get in the house and quite possibly have stolen her joy.

In Psalm 46:10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God.’

So, with that, I am trying to Be Still. I am putting my trust in God and His plan. It’s all I can do. That, and choose gratitude everyday. Now, that’s a plan I am praying I can follow. Would you like to join me? Outside of November? Just leave me a comment. I would LOVE to know what you are grateful for!

Until Next Time-

Be Blessed. Be Still.

Sarita

Taking a Scrapbook Page Kit and Making it Your Own

11 / 4 / 15

So, they just announced another layout kit for November. So, before I start telling you how adorable it is, I thought I should tell you and show you how much fun I had with August Layout Kit.

FAMILY TIME LAYOUT

Here is the recipe card for this layout kit.

When you look at my version of this layout, you can see I made a few changes. I already had some great pictures printed from a few years ago when we went bowling. They were already portrait or landscape so I had to be creative with the arrangement. I also didn’t use the house and tree embellishment. I stashed it away for another time. The half circle tabs were turned into polka dots at the top of the page.

I love the way it turned out. Although I started with a kit, it looks very different from the original idea. It was so fun to relive these memories. It was even more fun when Sofie saw it and said it was “beautiful!” with such sincerity.

5th Annual Christmas at the Cottage- Nov. 20-21

11 / 2 / 15

I love this time of year! Nothing makes me happier than getting to see all of you at my cottage. To make sure that happens I have added extra Night Owl Hours. Friday, Nov. 21 we will be open from noon-midnight.
Bring your friends, family, neighbors and anyone else you can think of that appreciates handmade designs. This year you can expect some new and fresh decorations for your home. I will also be showcasing lots of gift ideas if you are a DIYer too! So, be sure to mark your calendars and I will see you then!

Hanging Around Card Kit with Stamping Tips

10 / 24 / 15

Cards Stamped_on display_My Creative Cottage

With the “Hanging Around Card Kit” kit you can make 20 cards. Here are just a few I made. I love the way they look hanging in my cottage. They are pretty enough to be artwork on the walls.

This is the before picture. I laid out the pieces before I started so I could see what all my options were. As you can see I had many! It was nice to start with the included project cards. I really love the variety of this card kit. You may be making 4 birthday cards but they have die cuts and embellishments for female and male cards. So, no two cards are exactly the same.

To add my own flair I used the August and September Stamp Sets. The patterns from the apple stamp set were a great way to add texture. While the words and images from the Hey Fox Set worked well for added interest. Being able to see through the stamp allowed me to stamp directly on the card with little hesitation.

If you are new to stamping I wanted share a few tips with you. Feel free to pin it and save it for later.

Now, on to the cards.

I used a navy ink and stamped the letters with the checker pattern. I love how it gave the letters some texture.

For the Welcome Baby Card I used the word “baby” from the Hey Foxy Set from August. I also inked the edges of the banner because why not?

For this card I simply cut a little scrap into a dovetail and stamped “Hello Friend” from the Apple Greetings Set. I thread the twine through the button and tied a bow for an extra touch.

I absolutely love these little hearts from the Hey Foxy Set. The birds tweeting little love messages is the cutest thing on the “You Warm My Heart” card. Oh and I made the umbrella fashionable with hearts as well.

The purple border on the “I Want the World to Know” card also got a dose of the checkered pattern. It was not the best stamping job, but hey, then the recipient will definitely know I made it with my own two hands!

I hope this inspires you to grab your stamp sets and play! If you are nervous about it, just practice a few times on a scrap piece of paper. You will be fine! This card kit will not be around forever, so head over to my Anthology Boutique and grab it up!

Until Next Time-

Happy Crafting!

Sarita

Fall Floral Wreath Paper Craft Class

9 / 23 / 1510 / 12 / 15

NEW Dates Added for Fall Floral Wreath Paper Craft Class

Tuesday October 20- 7-9 pm

Wednesday October 21- 11:00- 1:00 pm

It’s my favorite time of the year! Fall! What better way to usher in this wonderful season, than with a beautiful home decor piece? Can you believe it is made of paper? I can’t wait to teach you how to make your own!

Take a break from the crazy of fall. Make a beautiful wreath with paper flowers. It is 12 inches in size and a perfect indoor wreath that will last. Enjoy a night out and learn the secrets to rolling gorgeous paper flowers.

All materials will be prepped and ready to go! I will also create “Classes 2 Go” Kits. That will include a link to instructions.

Cost $20 includes special quilling tool for rolling flowers. Plus, fall treats and give aways.

Space is limited! Class needs to be prepaid by Monday October 19th.

You can pay now with your credit card to reserve your spot. Please leave a note for which date you would like to attend.

I look forward to seeing you!

Until Next Time-

Be Blessed!

Sarita