Hip Chicks Craft Too!

Art Class

2012-02-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

My daughter has been asking to take an art class and she found one at Michael's Craft Store and she wanted to take it. Now this was an adult class, so I spoke to the teacher and explained she has been painting for years and would benfit from this more experienced class. The teacher agreed, but I felt bad sending her off into a class of adults alone, so I decided to take the class with her.

We were told to bring acrylic paints, brushes and canvas. I didn't know what we'd paint, but I was both excited and nervous. Turned out we'd be painting the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse. It's a lighthouse we see practically daily since that's where we go to the beach and for our walks. It's an odd shaped lighhouse. It's triangular and square.

I've photographed this lighthouse many times.

We had a great teacher and we both learned something new.

Here is my painting from class:

Glimpse Into My Sketch Book

2012-02-05T18:33:00.000-08:00

I always find it so interesting to get a glimpse into other artists sketch books. It fascinating to see how they try new techniques or colors. How a sketch starts as a simple idea before it's turned into a finished product.

I've been working on a book concept...it's far from full conceptualized, but I know it'll have pages full of beautiful artwork and color. I've never really painted with watercolor before...besides the pitiful messes we made in elementary school. As this book idea came to me it was full of watercolor painting and I was floored. I was terrified of this idea so I spent days trying to create an image of this book full of acrlic and mixed media...the mixed media became a natural fit, but the watercolor images were too powerful. Feeling very overwhelmed I sat down with watercolor paper, paints, brushes and watched youtube videos. The first few paintings weren't as terrible as I expected. So I've not only undertaken this book, but also learning to use watercolor paints.

Watercolor I worked on last night.

DailyPT Logo Drawings

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

My personal trainer hubby has launched a new site called DailyPT.net and he asked me to draw fitness models for his logos and header. I was super excited!

Here are my drawings....

Here is how he ended up using them...

Handmade Journals

2012-02-02T17:27:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays I had some free time and I spent most of it making journals. I had a blast putting these together. I got to use an old "Good Literature" newspaper from 1898. I've had in my stash for 10 years and finally found something special to do with it.

I then sent them to my family and friends...but it was painful to see them go...I fell in love with each one.

A Very Merry Indie Christmas >> Link Party

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a wonderful day yesterday! And that today you are in the mood for shopping "INDIE" style.

Casey over at TheWiegands.com is hosting a shop indie link party so hop on over...after you've visited my shop first of course....and check out all the fabulous gift ideas.

Today I'm offering you, my fabulous blog followers, a coupon code to use when shopping in my Etsy shop. Just enter this code ShopIndie11 when checking out to save 20%!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Hip Chicks Shop Update

2011-11-18T14:01:00.000-08:00

I've added "LaLa" and "Dreamer" to my Etsy shop!!

"LaLa"

"Dreamer"

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Hip Chicks Cook Too! Taco Soup

2011-11-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

Today in Charleston the sun is shining and the sky is blue and temperature is very cold! The crisp fall like air reminds me of Oregon. So I put on my sweater and we light the fireplace. I love these days when we hunk in. My senses are always hightened on days like this. I love the sound of the dryer and the smell of the fireplace. I love the sun beaming in through the windows and the crisp air whisping in through the cracked window. I have a warm cup a tea next to my keyboard and a pot of Taco Soup simmering on the stove.

I am very blessed!

So I thought I'd share with you my recipe for taco soup. It's super easy and seriously yummy!

Ingredients:

Pound of ground beef or turkey
Package of taco seasoning
1 can of garbonzo beans
1 can of black beans
1 can of pinto beans
2 cans or 1 large can of tomato sauce

Instructions:

1) Brown your meat and then set aside.

2) Pour the tomato sauce in a large pot and mix in the taco seasoning.

3) Open the cans of beans and add to the tomato mixture.

4) Add the browned meat to the pot and stir.

That's it!! Seriously easy right?!

You can also add corn or any other goodies you'd like.

I then turn the burner down to simmer and let all the flavor get all warm and fuzzy together. I usually start this a few hours before dinner so the beans are nice and soft.

You can make corn bread or biscuits to go with...or we sometimes use scoop Freetos. Yum!!

I hope you enjoy this soup on a cool day! I know we will!!

I Adore This Shop >> InkBerry

2011-11-16T11:30:00.000-08:00

Today I'd like to introduce you to a great artist and friend, Ann from InkBerry, in only photographs.

Her shop is full of the greatest seasonal decorations and vintage charms.

Ann partners with other companies on Themed Party Decorations

Halloween Garland (Ann makes the most amazing dress garlands)

Cake toppers

Christmas Garland

Spring Garland

Fairy Dust

Hanging Art

Don't forget to click over to Ann's blog and say HI! Also, if you love her stuff as much as I do...visit her shop or Facebook Page.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Hip Chicks "Fashion Mirrors" Are Back!!

2011-11-14T19:05:00.000-08:00

Inside the Hip Chicks Studio we’ve been super busy creating great new Fashion Mirrors for the gift giving season!

Last winter I introduced a limited edition holiday collection of Fashion Mirrors. I was so thrilled by the response last year that I decided to make them a regular part of Hip Chicks product line starting this month.

"2010 Fashion Mirrors"

I’ve been working on new sketches and so far the mirrors are turning out just as I envisioned. I have to say that this years mirrors are some of my favorite {wink, wink}…and I just know you’ll love them too. Each mirror is one of kind, as I add special charms, papers and attachments making each one an individual.

This year I've decided to go with themes...like Paris, cheerleading, tennis, beach, surfing, and so many more! Just wait to you see them all!! In the meantime….here is a sneak peak at one of the new designs.

I will be putting them on my Etsy shop every few days.

I'm also taking special orders this year, for those who want a mirror tailored to a specific someone. Also this year we’re offering personalization…adding names to the front of the mirrors.

Make sure to get yours early as they will sell fast and we will stop shipping after the first week of December. So if you have your eye on one please make sure to order quick.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Creating A Baseball Themed Room

2011-10-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

My son has a passion for two things...Sock Monkeys and Baseball.

He has a large collection of Sock Monkeys (but that is for another post)...and he's recently started playing baseball. When it came time to buy new bedding...he was torn on which direction to go.

We ended up finding a baseball/sport themed bedding set at Target, which he loved, so we decided to use baseball as the predominent theme. On one wall he wanted to hang his baseball posters (which he and his sister and drawn one late night) and the other he wanted to hang a shelf where he could display his Sock Monkeys.

We both loved the way it turned out.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Fall Yarn Wreath Tutorial

2011-10-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

I've seen these yarn wreaths on various blogs and even in a magazine recently...unfortunately I can't remember where they were. I made this wreath in September after I found this gorgeous fall colored yarn. I've had it hanging on my front door since...I love seeing it everytime I come home.

What you'll need:

Yarn
Wreath (you can get all different types and sizes at any craft store...I got mine at Michael's)
Hot glue gun
Silk flowers, plastic berries, etc (anything you'd like to add to the wreath)

Step 1~ Wrap the yarn tightly and very close together. This is something you can do while watching TV or talking with your hubby or kiddos. It's time consuming and if you let go the yarn can loosen. Best to do it in one sitting.

Step 2~ Once you've covered entire wreath...cut yarn so the end stops at the "back" of the wreath. Apply a generous drop of glue and press the end of the yarn into place.

Step 3~ Glue on your decorations. I chose to keep it super simple and add only a silk flower and leaves. But you are only limited by your imagination on this one...go for it and have fun!

Favorite DIY Post - Gussy Inspiration Workshop

2011-09-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Y'all~

I'm sharing my favorite DIY post from Hip Chicks over at Gussy Sews Inspiration Workshop. Jump on over and see all the super DIY projects.

100 Things I Love

2011-09-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

{Stacked rocks found while at Cannon Beach, OR}

Life has been all the way around difficult for so many recently. The anniversary of 9/11 is coming this weekend and we're all forced to remember where we were when. It's a memory that is forever embedded in my mind and probably yours. It makes us hold our loved ones close and pray the evil of this world will go away. The weather around the U.S. has left a lot to be desired. Hurricanes, earthquakes, wild fires...sheeesh!!! Scary!!

After so much I thought I'd take things to a lighter note and let y'all get to know a little more about moi. I found a list in my journal from years ago entitled "100 Things I Love"...I cried (shocker!!) while reading it. I thought the 100 things fit nicely with my 100 things theme this year so I thought I'd share.

Have you ever written a list of the things you love? No?? You should!!

It's seriously the coolest thing to come across years later. It's like a peek into your own soul. If you have written one or want to...I'd love to hear from you so you can share with the group. Come on...be a good sharer :)

100 Things I Love

1. The feel of a baby nestled in my arms

2. The sun...how the light makes everything brighter

3. The sound of the ocean

4. Pedicures

5. Massages

6. Tanning (yes, I know it's bad for me...)

7. Raspberries (could eat nothing but all day...every day)

8. Warm, soft bagels

9. Fresh donuts

10. The smell of movie popcorn

11. Drive-in movies

12. Swimming

13. Naps

14. Reading

15. Snuggling with my kiddos

16. Lazy weekends

17. A first kiss

18. Hugs

19. True Friendship

20. Good books

21. Tearjerker movie

22. Eating with chopsticks

23. The silence that comes after a heavy snow storm

24. Turning the radio really loud in the car

25. Dancing around the house with the kids

26. Bike riding on the beach

27. A good sweaty workout

28. When the house is quiet and I have time to write

29. A fire in the fireplace

30. Watching the snow fall

31. Listing to the rain

32. Big family gatherings

33. Beautiful art / photography

34. The sounds of kids laughter

35. The words "I love you"

36. Freshly washed sheets

37. New socks

38. The way it feels to put pen to paper

39. The smell of magazines

40. A warm, steamy shower

41. Freshly washed clothes

42. Chocolate!

43. Cold soda (with lots of ice)

44. The smell of coffee (only the smell...never drink the stuff...ever...I know weird right?)

45. New car smell

46. My husband right after a shower

47. The sound of my father playing guitar

48. Libraries

49. Bookstores, especially used bookstores.

50. Hugs from Ethan first thing in the morning

51. A good hamburger

52. Ballpark hot dogs (at an actual ballpark)

53. Really funny movies

54. Letters

55. Candles - the smell and light

56. Shoes!! Seriously who doesn't??!

57. Jewelry...silver and funky!

58. Painted nails...especially toes

59. A good chiropractic adjustment

60. A well fitted bra

61. Getting up before dawn to write while the house is quiet

62. The smell of cut grass

63. Sound of Dustin's voice

64. Baby animals

65. Hyacinthus (favorite flower)

66. Weeping willow trees

67. Waterfalls

68. Fog, the way it silences the world

69. Thunderstorms (not so much anymore...thunderstorms in SC are serious business)

70. Museums

71. Baked cookies

72. Champagne

73. The Dictionary

74. The sound of the ice cream truck approaching

75. Antique stores

76. Holding hands

77. Wiring conferences

78. Balloons

79. Walks on the beach!!

80. Baking / Cooking (wearing a pretty apron)

81. Helping others

82. Weddings

83. Learning

84. Documentaries...these are the best

85. Flying first class (only done this once...best flight EVER)

86. Tropical islands

87. New journals

88. The feel of a paint brush in my hand

89. Family photo albums

90. Touristy shops, trinkets

91. Old keys

92. Mountain cabins, nestled in snow

93. Deserted islands

94. History books, tours...anything history

95. Beach cottages with hardwood floors...and sand in the grooves (One day I'll live here!)

96. Eating breakfast at a restaurant

97. The sound of crickets

98. Sleeping under the stars

99. Fire flies

100. Campfires

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Don't Reject Yourself For Not Being There Yet

2011-09-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Your path truly begins whereever you're at. Turning 35 was harder then I thought it would be. I remember being a child and looking at my mother who was in her thirties and thinking "she's an adult...she must have her stuff figured out". Now I'm that mother in her mid-thirties and I realize my mother still doesn't have her stuff figured out :) I've had many goals over the years. Goals about family and career. And sadly I'm not where I thought I'd be at 35. Waking up on Saturday and coming face to face with the reality of that was a bit overwhelming. For the first time I wanted to rewind the clock. The do things differently. To appreciate myself and the time I had when I was in my twenties.

But then I read an article by Tama J. Kieves...who I have to say is my guardian angel. I'll get an email newsletter from her and it's as if she's reached deep into my soul and found the words I was struggling to form. In this post she said "Don't reject yourself for "not being there yet," wherever that great "there" is for you. You are on the path. The path begins whereever you are, when you emrace life with honesty, patience and compassion."

No truer words have been spoken.

Becareful of self-doubt. There are enough people in the world waiting for us to fail...don't fall into the trap and believe them. Believe in yourself...even if only a little bit. Start with that nugget and nurture it...protect it! Feed it! It only needs the smallest morsel of food to grow.

Everyday we wake up and are bombarded by the stresses of life. Our responsibilties to family and job can get in the way of true creative freedom if we let it. Be your own hero...block out a small chunk of time to feed and nurture your passions. And remember that whereever you are now is where you are meant to be. Life may not turn out the way we hope or plan, but if you stop and look at where you are and appreciate all that you do have, you'll see that goals are only a point in the distance we aim for...

This year I created a list of 100 things I'd like to accomplish in 2011. I wanted my goals to be more reachable. "Be published by 30" was a goal I had in my twenties...but this was huge! How does one accomplish a goal like that? By 29 years old I was in a panic.... How would I get published in a year if I hadn't started the process yet. I was tired of making these long term goals without having smaller, more reachable goals to help me get there. So I created a list and I've spent the last 8 months slowly checking them off. I've blogged about it on Holistic Momma, but I'm going to share my list with you here as well.

1.write 3 pages every day 2. ~~join a homeschool group~~ 3. ~~join a critique group~~ 4. ~~move to SC and live by the ocean~~ 5. ~~sell crafts on etsy~~ 6. paint 10 mixed media paintings 7. ~~take a pilates/yoga class~~ 8. run a marathon with Dustin 9. ~~write everyday~~ 10. workout 30 minutes 4 x's / week 11. stop eating sugar & ~~drinking soda~~ 12. finish book edits and query letter 13. submit essays to magazines 14. write endometriosis experience and submit to magazine 15. ~~get eyes checked and purchase new glasses/contacts~~ 16. ~~create school transcripts for kids~~ 17.order photo prints for 2007-current 18. ~~take an art class~~ 19. apply for writing grant 20. ~~(too personal to share)~~ 21.~~clean garage~~ 22. ~~have yard sale~~ 23. save $ (personal) by end of year 24. ~~make $(personal) each month~~ 25. ~~keep current on payroll taxes and reports~~ 26. dissolve corp 27. ~~save $(personal) to move to SC~~ 29. ~~make a new friend~~ 30.take writing class 31. ~~blog at least once per week~~ 32. ~~create or join endo support group~~ 33. ~~Prolo on thumb~~ 34. ~~wean myself off hormones~~ 35. ~~take more photos~~ 36. buy a new camera (a SLR) 37. write a 1,5, & 10 year writing business plan 38. ~~work with ethan on reading...have him able to read a full book on his own by Sept.~~ 39. ~~write thank you notes to family for help~~ 40. ~~research family history...pick a line and find out their story~~ 41. ~~research on how to become a geneologist~~ 42. "Throwdown" cook off with hubby 43. feel confident in a bathing suit 44. ~~finish pilates & cycling certification~~ 45. ~~see Ma before moving to SC~~ 46. ~~write Ma a letter or call once every month~~ 47. ~~rebuild credit score~~ 48. ~~take kids to Oregon historical sites (Lewis & Clark fort, etc) before moving~~ 49. write homeschool article 50.~~order new debit card~~ 51. read Kate Furnivall books 52. finish Paulina Simmons book 53.~~buy a purse I LOVE~~ 54.~~create an art journal~~ 55. ~~buy Aly gold chain for locket~~ 56. ~~get teeth whitened~~ 57. ~~say goodbye to unhealthy relationships~~ 58. ~~walk with friend 1 hour / week~~ 59. ~~learn to play a song on the guitar~~ 60. visit Dixie in Idaho 61. ride bikes on the beach 62. spend the weekend alone with Dustin 63. throw a girls night out weekend 64. no TV for one month 65. attend blog conference 66. attend writing conference 67. pitch novel to agent/editor 68. ~~declutter filing boxes~~ 69. ~~teach a class~~ 70. ~~find new accountant~~ 71. ~~file tax extension 72. take a ballroom dance class with Dustin 73. spend my 35th birthday on the beach in SC~~ 74. take a cooking class 75. ~~write "fan" letters to writers whose books touched my heart and life~~ 76. ~~meditate for 10 min every day~~ 77. ~~get to bed earlier so I can get my day started earlier~~ 78.~~help Ethan sleep better in his bed...commit to a bedtime routine~~ 79. ~~find classes/activities for kids to participate in~~ 80. write an endo support book 81. ~~take each kid on a special date, full of activities they would enjoy alone~~. 82. ~~tell my family I love them everyday~~ 83.~~give hubby at least one passionate kiss every day~~ 84. ~~declutter my house~~ 85. rewrite our will 86. ~~create a SC change jar fund~~. 87. ~~buy a large 1,000 piece puzzle to do with the kids~~ 88. perform 2 random acts of kindness 89. ~~buy a new book light~~ 90. help Aly find a place to volunteer 91. ~~reconnect with my spirituality 92. create a connection spirtually between our family~~ 93. make a cake from scratch 94. ~~grow my hair long 95. create a list of all special events and write cards for each~~ 96. read "the screenwriters bible" 97. ~~make piece with the fact I'll never have another baby 98. (too personal to share)~~ 99. sell atleast one of my paintings 100. ~~acknowledge the positives of each day instead of the negatives~~.

You should try it!! Make a list of 5 or 10 things you want to accomplish or do in a month. Small goals are building blocks to larger goals. You can't take a flight of stairs in one step!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Journaling Weekend

2011-09-05T21:18:00.000-07:00

Have y'all had a wonderful Labor Day Weekend??

We've had a nice weekend! My birthday was Saturday and the weather was gorgeous! When I take the weekend off from work I always have a HUGE list of things I want to do and accomplish. I wonder if this is just another excuse to create To Do lists.

One of my goals was to spend some time playing with my journal...

Hip Chicks Cook Too! Sock Monkey Cupcakes

2011-09-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

My son is a collector of all things sock monkey...from the dolls, to books, and night lights. Last night we decided to decorate cupcakes like sock monkeys.

What you'll need: cake mix, chocolate frosting, mini nilla wafers, oreos, decorating frosting

Step 1) Make your cupcakes. We chose to make chocolate cupcakes, but this is totally up to you. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2) Frost the top of your cupcakes. Again we chose chocolate...however, you could mix chocolate and white frosting to make a lighter brown color.

Step 3) Apply a mini wafer to for the nose and attach oreos for the ears.

Step 4) Using decorative frosting apply the eyes and nose. Here you could also use licorice robe for the mouth and colored candies for the eyes. The options are limitless....just let your imagine run wild.

Best Things to Do with Jeans Filled with Holes // by Suzanne Townsend

2011-08-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Irene is bearing down on the East Coast and thankfully it looks like she'll hit to our North...so we're only expected to see tropical storm winds and rain. We have our emergency food and water, lots of batteries and stacks of DVD's for our weekend hiding out in our house. Since we'll be battening the hatches...crafty friend Susanne is sharing ways to recycle your holey jeans.

There is a circle of life when it comes to jeans: purchase, wear for a few years until the sight of the first hole, hang in your closet for two years trying to deny the existence of holes, and then eventually throw away or give away. Alas, even the most well constructed jeans eventually wear through. But what if there was a way to prolong the inevitable and extend the life of your favorite jeans? Consider me your jean genie for I am about to make your denim dreams come true.

Turn your jeans into shorts~
You might be thinking that any 3rd grade student with a pair of safety scissors could turn jeans into shorts, but hear me out. Cut off jeans have had negative connotations for years – visions of trailer parks and booty shorts may be dancing in your head as you read this, but there is a way to wear cut offs and still look respectable. Try cutting them right above your knee and roll them up once leaving the frayed edge visible for a casual surfer look, or cut them at your mid-thigh and roll twice for a more polished summer look.

Patch up your jeans~

Visit your local fabric store and buy a dynamic print to sew into your jeans. For a contemporary look, pick a simple black and white print or go for complete whimsy and use Winnie the Pooh or a tie-dye print. As long as you love the fabric you chose, you’ll wear your new original jeans with pride.

Turn your jeans into a purse~

Cut straight across your jeans where your hips would be and sew straight across the jagged edge. Voila, you have the makings of a cost free handbag. Sew straps by using strips cut from the legs of your jeans. Don’t be alarmed! – when you wear your jeans on your arm you may be self conscious about displaying the size of your bottom as an accessory, but you’ll get over that the moment you get your first compliment.

Make your own bell bottoms~

Okay, this doesn’t make the holes in your jeans go away, but it will make them 70’s chic. At the bottom of your jeans, cut a triangle on the outside of each pant leg with the base of the triangle at the hem of the jean. Use the cut out triangle and trace it on a piece of fabric with an extra 1” around the shape and sew the larger triangle into your jeans. The extra fabric will give them retro flare.

Wear your holey jeans!

A few years ago the trend was to wear distressed denim. Jeans had so many holes that they looked like strips of fabric connected by a zipper and a button. We now understand that less is more. One hole in the knee of your jeans can (and should) be pulled off with style. Six holes means you’re trying a little too hard. If your denim wear and tear has occurred naturally then wear those holes with pride.

With these ideas, and maybe a few of your own, you are well equipped to breathe new life into those jeans sitting idly in your closet. After all, they are your favorites for a reason! So, don’t abandon hope. Fight for your denim, holes and all.

Suzanne is a blogging Seattlile with an affinity for fashion and a healthy obsession with skinny jeans. She loves helping others find their personal style and believes that every day is an opportunity to shine.

Flash Mob...Artist Style

2011-08-15T13:49:00.000-07:00

We've all seen or heard about the newest craz...FLASH MOBS. They are super fun to watch and I've even wished a time or two to be a part of one. I remember the first one I ever saw. It was a YouTube video of a group dancing in a train station and I was in awe of such a mass group working together. It was both beautiful and inspirational. Who can forget the Flash Mob that danced to the Black Eye Peas during the Oprah show.

Maybe it's the image of so many working together. Take any of those moments and the people standing beside one another or walking through a train station barely noticing those around them. And just for a few minutes they are all working together in harmony. They are enjoying themselves and they are allowing all that are watching to be amazed and thrilled. It is an example of bringing humanity together. If you'll notice in the flash mobs that there are all ages dancing together. It's truly beautiful!

So when I read about an artist named Gary Smith who has been organizing his own "Artist Flash Mobs" it brought a smile to my face. He puts a call out that he'll be at a certain location and all artists are welcome. They setup and all work together in a new setting. He has a website called EscapeWithGary

I imagine this is what it would feel like to travel around Paris. Artists setup outdoors painting the scenery and the people.

In fact, I just read about a blogger (I can't remember the blog's name...I'll see if I can find it)...but she and a friend pulled out her vintage camera and went to the eiffle tower and offered to take people's pictures for a small fee. The whole idea was to have dinner with their earnings.

We need more art around us. I love art museums, but they are indoors in controlled environments. We need to see artists at work. We need to see dancers working together. We need to see that humanity is more then wars and bad economies.

I think I should start by own Artist Flash Mob...would you join me?

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Make Your Own Facebook, Twitter, and Email Icons

2011-08-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

I've been working on layout changes here at Hip Chicks and while I was looking for different Facebook and Twitter icons I decided to try to make my own.

1) I drew squares to give me a reference point. Then I drew in my F and T.

2) I then rounded the corners and used an eraser to clean up my edges.

3) Once I had the look I wanted...I transferred over to a decorative piece of paper.

4) Using my "Karat Aquarell" watercolor crayons...I traced around the square and the letters, then with a paint brush dipped in water I following the lines then dragged my paint brush across my icon to blend the color.

5) Once the paint was dry I scanned my images into the computer. You could take a really good up close image as well if you don't have a scanner.

6) Using PhotoShop I cut my icons apart one at a time and saved them individually. Something like "facebook-icon-sm"

7) From there I opened my design feature on Blogger and added a gadget. I used "add a picture" then typed in my link.

They turned out just the way I wanted them to. Now I have my own artsy...one-of-a-kind icons.

Judy Moody and Stink Moody Dolls

2011-08-02T19:59:00.000-07:00

Have your children discovered the adventures of Judy and Stink Moody yet? Have they read all the books? Have they seen the new movie? Have they spent hours playing in character mimicking the style and adventures of the Moody siblings?

Well...mine have!

My daughter fell in love with these books a few years ago and my son soon found the Stink series.

I decided to make a Judy and Stink doll for my kiddos while they were away visiting their grandparents.

I drew out a pattern and began to put the dolls together. I had a basic plan and if I must say...they turned out super cute!!

After drawing the pattern out I sewed the arms, legs, body and head together...then stuffed with polyfil

Using fabric markers I drew a face and then sewed on black buttons for eyes.

The hair was sewed down the center of the head and then again above the ear area to hold the yarn down.

Using baby clothes I dressed Stink and Judy

And the siblings were done and waiting for the kiddos to get home!

Here they are dancing with their new friends.

E-Course

2011-08-02T19:20:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to be participating in Kelly Rae Robert's E-Course starting this Sunday. If y'all haven't had a chance to take her course now is the time to sign up!!

Painting Again...Finally!!

2011-05-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

We have finally settled in to our new home in Charleston, SC. The weather has been very sunny and for the first time in a long time...I am warm. Work has been so crazy and I've been burning the candle at both ends...so today after hitting a wall I finally pulled out my paints. I needed to clear my head and reconnect with my soul and this was a great beginning. I setup my art supplies on our screen porch and I enjoyed the warmth and the breeze that blew through the leaves just outside our screen.

(Art table on screened porch)

(View from art table)

"This too is part of my story"

First painting since December...felt so good to have a brush in my hand again.

I'm working on a series of paintings about women with endometriosis. I want them to represent the journey each woman goes through to heal and to find her voice...and her strength.

I Miss You...

2011-03-17T00:26:00.000-07:00

Hi my blog friends!!

It's been a while and I'm so sorry for that. :(

I wanted you to know that I haven't forgotten you, I've just been healing. I have written in depth about my surgeries and how I'm dealing with endometriosis and how its changed my life over on my Holistic Momma blog, but I chose not to go into details here because this was intended as a creative space and one that was about exchanging ideas and inspiration. So my silence has only been due to the time I've had to give myself to heal.

I'm a homeschool momma who works at home and also helps my husband run two businesses. I have a lot on my plate and crafts and art have not been my priority as of late. However, I miss it terribly and I'm working on adding it back to my life. It's a big part of my soul and it soothes me. So I've given myself a goal of updating at least once a week so I hope you continue to stop by and visit with me.

I want you all to know how much I appreciate you and to all those who are new here...welcome and please have a look around and enjoy some of the super fun crafts I've shared. Thanks everyone for the continued support for Hip Chicks Craft Too!!

Hugs~

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Looking for Guest Bloggers

2011-01-11T01:01:00.000-08:00

I'm looking for crafters who want to share their talents with my readers. Whether it be a tutorial or inspirational story...please submit your post for potential publication here on Hip Chicks!!

Contact me here with questions or suggestions.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Holly Releigh Show

2011-01-10T22:18:00.000-08:00

Finally I'm getting around to downloading the photos from my camera of the Holly Releigh Show.

My booth!

My hope is to get the product that didn't sell listed on Etsy soon. I'll keep you posted!!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Creating a community on blogs

2010-12-29T19:29:00.000-08:00

My husband and I have talked at length lately about how different life has become. How communities aren't what they use to be. But I've started to realize that community has just changed. I know there are small towns in this country that have held tight to their community. Where everyone knows their neighbors and how those in the community support each other...whether with a casserole when someone is ill or help when a family falls on hard times. Unfortunately, in many other areas we've moved so far away from "community" that we've lost track of who we live by or who buys from us.

And then today I was reading Gussy's blog and she had a post about creating a community through our blogs and that's when I realized how much we've changed. Even though community may have changed in the physical world around us...that doesn't mean we have to live isolated...NO!...we can reach out to others who are like us...who understand the difficulities we're experiencing or who enjoy the same things we do...and they don't have to live in your town. Community has gone global!

I was thrilled to participate in Gussy's community building efforts and felt I should extend it to my followers as well. So I want to share the four questions she posted and have you all comment with your answers. It'll give you all a chance to connect with others...ultimately growing your "online" community.

Comment with your answers to the following questions:

1. What is your name and blog/shop URL?
2. What is your blog or shop about?
3. Share something fun about yourself?
4. What is something that's a favorite?

Here are my answers.....

1. what is your name and blog/shop URL? http://www.hipchickscrafttoo.blogspot.com/
2. what is your blog or shop about? It's where I share my love of all things creative. Where I share free tutorials and share latest techniques. It's where I go to share all my creative energy.

3. share something fun about yourself? I've written 10 novels...no, I've not sent them to any publishers...yet.

4. what is something that’s a “favorite”? The beach on a sunny day. I would do or give up anything to spend the day at the beach.

I'm super excited to learn more about you all!!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

New Product Designs

2010-12-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

I've been talking about all my new product designs for the Holly Raleigh show on December 11th...and finally I have pictures to show you.

Hand Mirrors For Girls

Flag Banners

Comfort Connie Crochet Doll (with flaxseed tummy)

Recipe Stand w/ Butterfly Magnets

Cyber Monday Offer

2010-11-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Cyber Monday!!

I am offering a FREE coffee cozy with each purchase made today. Just mention you saw this offer here.

Visit my shop for great gifts! http://etsy.me/9PjKBr

Happy Shopping!!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

This Is My Life

2010-11-27T22:42:00.000-08:00

I've started this blog post at least a dozen times and I never get it done. I guess it's because I don't know where to begin to explain how my life has been since my surgery...much less understand that "this" is my life now.

My surgery didn't go as planned. The doctor believed I had mild to moderate endometriosis before my surgery and after opening me up...he found stage 4 endometriosis. He chose to close me up after 30 minutes without removing any of the endo. I woke up in the recovery room and my doctor was there...which was odd, and I asked him if he got it all and he said, "I'm sorry, the endo was to severe, I didn't take any out." He left to speak to my husband and let me tell you...I have never been so angry and so scared in my whole life. Just like that my life changed and I have a life-altering, chronic, painful disease with no cure.

My options at this point include suppressing my hormones with Lupron (which ultimately puts me in menopause) or...hysterectomy. At 34 years old I never expected to be told I should remove all my reproductive organs.

Since you heard from me last I've had to recover from a surgery (which sucks when you know it's all still in there), look for another doctor to give me a second opinion, fight with my original doctor for my surgery video and medical records, find out the 2nd Dr agrees with the first, send my records and video to a 3rd doctor (an endo specialist in CA), my MIL was in town to help with the kiddos, I've had work to do, kids to care for and I've had lots of product to make for the upcoming craft show.

At times it feels like I have t*u*n*n*e*l vision...where endo is all I think about. How can I change my lifestyle to make endo better? What about the future? What about the family history of cancer...would hysterectomy save me from further illness in the future.

It's a long road ahead of me. One full of unknown and no guarantees.

I dream of going back to this moment...before I "knew" what was growing inside of me.

My kiddos have been so amazing. They are always there asking if I need anything and offering snuggles to make my tears stop.

I LOVE my babies!! I'm the luckiest momma!!

I've spent more time in this dark space then I ever hoped...

Staring at my art desk...wishing I had more energy to be creative.

The emotional side of this roller coaster has been pure hell. One minute I'm angry, the next I'm sobbing.

Without my art I would be a complete mess. It gives me something to focus on for a time and it makes me feel good...something I truly need right now. My heart hurts and my art has healed the tender spots.

But I can't wait to share you all that I'm working on...

Here's a sneak peak!

Surgery Tomorrow

2010-11-16T00:23:00.000-08:00

I have surgery in the morning and I haven't gotten to nearly enough of the items on my to do list. That includes the tutorials I had planned to share. I hope to be back as quick as I'm with it enough to type :)

I did want to share with you some information on the show I'll be apart of mid-December. My beautiful friend Ann over at Swing Time Designs is putting this amazing shin-dig together and it's all to support the arts program.
So if you live in the Portland or Southern Washington area stop on by!!

Button Cover Rings Tutorial

2010-11-11T00:37:00.000-08:00

This tutorial accomanies yesterday earrings tutorial...

The make the rings, we used larger button covers and we glued the rings to the back instead of earring backs.

Fabric Scrap Twist Ring

This ring is super easy to make. You'll need a scrap of fabric roughly 1" W x 22" L

You can use a longer or shorter piece, depending on how large you want the ring.

Using a glue gun, apply a small glob of glue to one edge and fold diagnolly to the other edge.

Begin twisting around and around, applying small globs of glue here and there to hold fabric in place.

With 1/2"-1" left, glue and fold under. You'll attach the ring to the base of your twisted circle with E6000 or your glue gun. I've found the glue gun doesn't hold as well against the metal.

Fabric Button Earrings Tutorial

2010-11-10T00:22:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I made a few sets of these over the summer. We both had such fun and they are super CUTE!

What you'll need: Fabric fabric, button cover kit, earrings backs, E6000, scissors

Follow the directions on the button cover kit. Use the circle on the back to cut out a fabric circle.

Use E6000 to attach earing back. Set aside to let dry completely.

We even made matching button rings and fabric twist rings. Tutorial coming tomorrow.

Features On....CraftStew

2010-11-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

I was just notified that my Hardcover Journal was featured on CraftStew. It was included in a post called 50 Handmade Gift Ideas. I'm so pleased to be in the company of such great crafters. Jump on over to check it out.

Hip Chicks Studio Sign

2010-11-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

I wanted to make a sign for my studio and here is what I came up with.

This was actually my second try...the first one turned out terribly :) But that happens...more often then not. Do you ever notice how many tries it takes to create new designs. I always have such high hopes for my projects, but seeing I'm kind of a fly by the seat of my pants kind of artist...things don't always turn out the way I invision.

If you are like me, don't feel bad or let those "bad art" days get your down. Learn from them. Grow and realize that we all have similar days. Oh and the amazing, fulfilling, excitement that comes from a success day in the studio will make those days all the more worth it.

Apply Mod Podge to the wood and apply paper.

With sandpaper block shave off the edges.

Apply rub-on letters

Distress the edges

Apply glue in the center of the ribbon ends and pinch together.

Apply glob of glue to wood and attach ribbon. Then I used a thumb tack to hold securely in place.

I drilled a hole in the right side and used an old metal drawer handle. I wanted to sign to have a hook and this worked perfectly.

Crafts and Surgery...do these go together?

2010-11-08T23:30:00.000-08:00

I was given some life altering news recently, which has taken me some time to come to terms with. As I mentioned in my previous post I had my gallbladder removed in late August and after a "longer then normal" recovery I was gearing up for show season with lots of new and exciting crafts, as-well-as lots of super fun tutorials...but I still wasn't feeling very well and after many doctor appointments, I've been diagnosed with Endometriosis (or so they think) and I have to have surgery on November 16th. Two surgeries in a little over two months!!!

Seriously?!

It's taken me a lot of soul searching, a lot of tears and a lot of talking to my hubby to come to terms with this diagnoses and how bad the timing is. I was forced to cancel out of a few shows, but I am still working towards two in December. More details to come!!

And that's where my title comes in. I have a week before surgery and about a two week recovery a head of me, yet, I have LOTS of product to make and not sure how I'll get it all done. I had a great plan to get all my sewing projects done before surgery and then work on my art projects during recovery...but let's be honest...I could barely read one article in a magazine or finish an entire half-hour TV show during the last recovery. So, I'm starting to panic a bit here. How on earth will I get it all done??

I have to tell you how excited I am about the projects I'm working on though. There are some old favorites and some new ones. I'm working on new comfort Connie dolls, so if you wanted to order one for that special little girl (or boy) in your life...you better do it soon. ;)

On a non-show note...I'm creating craft kits for special events. My idea was to create fun projects that can be done as a group. Like at a baby shower, wedding shower, birthday party, or slumber party. You'll be able to order the number of kits to fit your group and I'll mail them to you. Then you invite all your special girlfriends, serve some wine and yummy food and get crafting together. Each person will leave with a finished project. I have lots of kits in the works, but the Scrabble tile pendant is finished and ready to go. The kits should be listed on Etsy sometime this week. But if you are interested, please feel free to contact me. And make sure to keep checking back for further annoucements on all the other fun craft kits!!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Long Absence

2010-10-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I posted here. Life has taken a turn for the crazy and I've been caught in the middle of it all. I had surgery at the end of August to remove my gallbladder and after 6 months of feeling terrible it was time. The surgery went well, but it took me a few weeks to recover. We started our homeschool year, we've had family in town and my new job has been super busy.

But......

I've still be crafting and I have SOOOO much in the works. Lots of new crafts. Lots of new ideas churning.

All I have to do is get through this week. I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel.

So hang tight and make sure to check out all the crafts I've shared thus far.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Decorative Journal Cover

2010-08-31T00:22:00.000-07:00

I picked up a couple of these writing pads at Fred Meyer the other day and I couldn't wait to decorate the covers.

I glued sheet music onto the cover with a glue stick.

Attached ribbon with a glue stick to the bottom.

Attached rhinestones to the center of the flowers.

Tied pretty, soft fibers to the spiral binding and attached a wire word "imagine" to the end of the fiber strings.

Here's my finished cover! Isn't it sooo cute??

Just think of the creative possibilities these pretty journals can collect.

Paper Photo Frame Magnets

2010-08-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

When I began this project I had a whole different idea...but then the ideas starting flowing and they sent me into a totally new direction. I decided to photograph the steps, just in case the idea turned out well...and I must say I was totally thrilled with the outcome.

I'm so in love with these that I can't seem to stop making them. The photo frame would make a great gift for grandparents or for Daddy's office and the quote frame would make great teacher gifts.

Quote Frame Magnet

What you'll need: Decorative Card Stock, Glue Stick, Quote or Photo, Glue Gun, Magnet, Embellishment, Sewing Machine is optional.

Step 1: Cut front and back card stock pieces. I cut mine 2" x 2", but you could cut them whatever size works for your quote/picture.

Step 2: Apply glue to backside of one of the pieces, then line of the other side and rub together. Make sure to get glue in the corners, you don't want your pieces pulling apart.

Step 3: I used a quote sticker, so I attached it to a piece of white paper, then trimmed the bottom.

(Clear quote stickers)

Step 4: Apply glue to the backside of the quote and attach to the center of the background front Step 1 & 2.

Step 5: I used my sewing machine to sewing around the edges of the quote. I used a lime green thread to add color to my black & white theme.

(Tie and snip off ends)

Step 6: I glued a metal heart embellishment to the bottom corner.

Step 7: Using a sponge I applied a tattered rose distress ink to the edges.

Step 8: Use glue gun to apply a generous glob of glue onto a magnet and center on the back of your quote frame.

Photo Frame Magnet

Step 1: Cut front and back card stock pieces 2" x 2"

Step 2: Glue these two pieces together.

Step 3: I used a precut frame and applied green ink to the back. Set aside to dry before moving onto the next step.

Step 4: Glue frame to picture, trip picture to fit frame.

Step 5: Glue the picture/frame to the background from step 1 & 2

Step 5: Using sewing machine I zig zag stitched along the top and bottom of the frame. Then glued on a metal baseball hat embellishment.

Step 6: Using glue gun, apply glue to magnet and then center on the backside of frame.

Hang on your refrigerator, office bulletin board, or filing cabinet.

2010-08-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

I'm featured on Under The Table and Dreaming Sunday Showcase Party...Click here to see all the fun craft ideas.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Scrabble Tile Pendant Tutorial

2010-08-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've had these scrabble tiles for about two years and have planned all that time to turn them into a pendant...well, I've finally done it.

I wore my scrabble pendant out on Friday night for our date night. The sales lady and Borders, our waitress at PF Chang's and the grocer at Safeway all complimented me on my necklace. One actually asked me where I got it and I proudly told her I made it myself. She then asked me where I sold them and I told her my blog/etsy shop.

What you'll need: scrabble tile, bail, chain, scrapbook paper scrap, sticker/stamp/jewel, text, matte modge podge, glitter/shimmer modge podge, distress ink, diamond glaze.

Step 1: Measure and cut scrapbook paper. Then apply modge podge to tile and lay paper over glue. Rub with finger to smooth out. Let dry completely.

Step 2: Apply sticker, stamp, jewel...as well as any text, words or scriptures.

Step 3: Using stamp spunge, distress edges of tile.

Step 4: Spray with a fixative to make sure the ink won't bleed. Let dry completely.

Step 5: Paint on thin layer of glitter/shimmer modge podge. Let dry completely.

Step 6: Squeeze out generous amount of diamond glaze on the top of tile. I apply it along the edges, then fill the middle. Make sure you don't have any air bubbles. If you get air bubbles...use a tootpick to work them out. Leave out to dry overnight. Make sure to leave it somewhere it won't be disturbed or bumped. The glaze takes a LONG time to harden completely.

You must let each step dry completely before moving on.

I am addicted to making these! They are such a beautiful addition to any wardrobe.

I'd love to see any photos

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

2010-08-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

My cozy burp cloth tutorial is featured these sites today! Click on the links to see all the fun craft ideas.

Decoupage Box Tutorial

2010-08-20T05:43:00.000-07:00

I created this decoupage box for my little 4 year old cousin. She is the daughter of my aunt, whom I'm very close with. She's just turned 4 and I haven't even met her yet. Lasy time I visited my aunt in CA she was pregnant. It makes me so sad to be away from my family and to have missed so much.

I wanted to make something for my cousin...something that would let her know I was thinking of her.

I had a little cardboard box with wood finial feet and knob that would work great with decoupage.

What you'll need: box (pine or cardboard), modge podge (matte), scrapbook paper, ribon, stickers, shimmer/glitter modge podge.

Step 1: Seperate the lid and box. You'll decorate these seperately. If you're working with a pine box and it had metal hardware. Maker sure you unscrew the hardware and set aside. Then when working with the boxes, be aware of where your hardware will go back on... If you are working with a finished box like me, you can go directly to step 2, if you are working with a pine box, you'll want to paint the areas you don't plain to decoupage. Set aside to dry completely before moving to step 2.

Step 2: Measure and cut paper to fit the sides of the box. Apply modge podge and lay paper over glue. Use finger to rub out. I worked from one side to the side, using modge podge to smooth the paper around the edges. Once all sides were covered. I set aside to dry while I worked on the top.

Step 3: Measure paper and cut. I had a knob on the top of the box, so I used a circle punch to cut out a circle that would allow the paper to fit over the knob. I applied modge podge and then set paper over it and smoothed.

Step 4: Apply letter stickers for name, butterfly stickers and hearts. Then I used the glitter modge podge over the entire lid. Set aside to dry completely.

Step 5: Once the lid and box were dried I applied a sticker to the box. Using modge podge and paint brush/sponge brush I painted a layer over all sides and lid. This will act as a sealant.

Step 6: Using embellishment glue I attached a strip of ribbon around the edge of the lid.

Step 7: I attached a scrap of paper and a "Made with love" sticker to the bottom of the box.

Super Cute! And we all know how much kids love boxes!!

Turn Kids Artwork Into Their Own Stationary

2010-08-17T23:13:00.000-07:00

My kiddos are two of the most artistic little people I've ever seen. They produce an obscene amount of drawings, paintings and colorings each day. I don't know if it's due to the fact they are homeschooled, or if it's because they've grown up watching me, or if it's just ingrained in their very fiber.

In addition to the artwork, they love to write letters. This is all my doing, and something I will take a hundred percent credit for. I believe written letters are a lost art form. It's always amazing to discover letters from hundreds of years ago. Could you imagine what our world would be like without letters from Jane Austen, Virginia Wolfe, Ernest Hemingway? What will our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have to treasure from our time period...emails? Tweets? Text messages?

My children are wonderful letter writers. They write to their grand parents, their friends and of course they are required to write thank you notes when they receive a gift. I decided to turn their artwork into cards so they would have their own stationary to use for their letters.

First you'll want to scan in your kids artwork.

Next, use your favorite graphic program (I used Microsoft Publisher) and layout your artwork images. You can use just images or add text.

Print onto card stock or pre-folded cards (which you can purchase at any office store).

It's super easy and it's a gift in itself.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

New Hip Chick Header and Painting

2010-08-17T22:25:00.000-07:00

Successful blogs grow and change...and it was my goal this week to create a blog header that represented Hip Chicks a bit more directly. I set out to create a painting of a Hip Chick this week and I thought I'd share with you the process.

Step 1 - I used matte finish modge podge to adhere the background paper to a canvas. I used torn scrapbook paper and old pattern paper. While I left it to dry completely, I sketched my "Hip Chick" in my sketch pad.

Step 2: Once the background was dried completely I transferred my drawing onto the background paper by tracing over my drawing with a charcoal pencil, then turning it over and rubbing roughly against the back of the sketch.

Step 3: I then glued flowers inside the bodice of her dress and a butterfly in the corner.

Step 4: I painted the background around the girl and then began painting the dress and her skin and hair. I left to sit and dry overnight.

Step 5: I applied a shear paper over the dress and then applied a glitter modge podge.

Step 6: Then I finished the hair and the face.

2010-08-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

Kelly Rae Roberts has turned her wildly successful e-course into a ebook. If you're a blogger and don't have your copy yet...you must get one.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Blog Evaluation

2010-08-17T03:31:00.000-07:00

I began blogging in 2005 with my girlfriend. We co-wrote a blog called Let's Write Now. Our goal was to chronicle our journey from unpublished to published. We eventually went our own ways and I started a new blog called Writer Ramblings...where I continue to post about my process as a writer.

In March of 2009 I started a second blog Holistic Momma, which became my place to share my thoughts of motherhood, homeschooling, yoga, and, well....life. I wanted to separate those things from the Writer Ramblings because I wanted to keep the writing part separate.

It's actually very cool to be able to read some of my posts from 2006, before the recession. I just heard of a blogger who turns her blog posts into a book each year, so she has a visual/printed record of it. I'm definitely going to look into that.

I've always been "crafty". I learned to sew and crochet as a young girl and I've always dabbled in painting and other paper crafts, but it became a bigger part of my life while I was a postpartum doula. I began making flax seed compresses for the babies I was working with. They helped one particular baby who had really bad colic and tummy problems. The mom was amazed and begged me to make her a flax seed compress.

Baby Compress

I then grew the line of compresses into backwraps with Velcro straps, so you could move about your day without having to "lay" on the hot/cold pack. Then I made a knee wrap for my MIL who'd had knee surgery. Eventually I made breast compresses for momma clients who were breastfeeding and then came the Comfort Connie/Connor crochet dolls.

This is the first backwrap I ever made. We use it still! It's fabulous.

This knee wrap I made my for step father...the one I made my MIL was pink and pretty.

Breast pads started as squares, but I've recently redesigned them.

I hope to write a tutorial soon.

And of course...my sweet girl with a Comfort Connie doll.

I think these are my most favorite and yet the hardest things to make.

My girlfriend asked me to share a booth at a craft show in end of 2008 and I set about making enough product. That first show was a flop, but I learned a lot and I was eager to get back and work on new items. By the time we went into our second show I had a whole line of yoga bags and relaxation masks in addition to my compresses. This show was more successful. I opened an Etsy shop to sell the left over items and it all snowballed from there.

I then read a book about living a authentic, creative life and it woke me up to what my life was supposed to look like. I'd spent over a year making products and selling them, but I am a teacher and nurturer at heart and I wanted to share my ideas and how things were made. And Hip Chicks was born.

It's been such a wonderful place for me to grow as an artist and crafter. It's forced me to find time for art in my daily life and it's offered a connection to a community I longed for my entire life. So thank you!!

Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, Oregon

I LOVE the beach!!

So why am I telling you all of this?

Well...it's 2:31 in the morning and I can't sleep, which makes me introspective...yes, it's a dangerous thing and no it's not because I'm bored.

We were bored this night.

I'm starting to feel like there is something missing here at Hip Chicks. How can that be when Hip Chicks is ME? Well...as I lay in my bed unable to sleep, I realized why I was having this feeling...it's because my posts have been rushed, to the point, and purely tutorial driven. I've forgotten to share my stories. My triumphs and my failures. I've forgotten that a part of teaching and nurturing is sharing of oneself...which I'll tell you now, is very difficult for me. So I'm making a promise to myself to share more of myself. To just be ME. At my age, which is starting to feel old, I have come to terms with the fact that I'm a giver. I thrive on doing for others, even at the expense of myself. It's not a totally healthy quality, but one that refuses to go away.

Okay...so technically this is me...I just don't have that long beautiful hair anymore.

I miss that hair.

I really, really miss that hair.

Why do I hate it so much that I cut it...then immediately regret it?

I promise hair if you grow...I'll never cut you again.

And these are my feet.

I never tire of taking pix of my feet.

I see so many other bloggers do this too.

Why do we do this?

Feet really aren't very attractive..are they?
Why not hands? Or knees...?

As my wonderful friend and critique partner likes to tell me...I'm dark and twisty. I like to think and make others think. I write stories that make you think, analyze your life and relationships, and if I can make you cry...I've done my job. BUT!! I'm equally proud if I can make you laugh.

Does this pic make you feel all dark and twisty?

No...

Okay, what about thoughtful and soulful?

A little...

What about hungry, warm, sleepy, thirsty?

Yes...

Yeah...ME TOO!

So pull up a chair, a cool drink and your art/craft supplies. Let's walk this adventure together. I promise to share everything I know with you.

I couldn't find a picture of a chair...so imagine one here :)

2010-08-14T16:36:00.000-07:00

You come across a path...

You don't know where it leads...

Do you explore down it?

Or do you walk away?

Blog Hop '10

2010-08-11T02:07:00.000-07:00

Today I’m linking up to Robin’s Blog Hop ’10 party, which is a fun and easy way to “meet” other bloggers. The idea is for those who can't attend the BlogHer conference to still meet other bloggers.

Great idea right??!! Wish I'd thought of it.

If you're a regular here at Hip Chicks...thanks for all your support!! I hope you get a chance to visit all the other bloggers who are participating.

If you're new...welcome!!

Hip Chicks Craft Too was created as a place for me to share all the fun, hip crafts I create. I love to share new ideas and to learn from others. So Hip Chicks is about community and supporting each other as woman and artists.

I'm Heidi...I'm a wife and homeschool momma to two amazing children, who teach me more about art and true creativity each day.

I love to take pictures of my feet...

The beach...

My little punks...who I adore and wish daily they'd stop growing up so darn fast...

Flowers...any kind...flowers do not take a bad picture...

And of course, you'll find lots and lots of photos of crafts on Hip Chicks...

Hip Chicks Craft Too! began earlier this year, even though I blog at Holistic Momma and Writer Ramblings, I was looking for a place I could share my creative side. I'd gotten into the crafting world by accident...I didn't know others actually sewed, crocheted and painted anymore. I know, I just thought it was something old women did and I didn't fit in...so I tucked my head and kept to myself. I wanted Hip Chicks to be a sort of coming out. A place for other hip, modern women and mommas to come to and share their love of crafting.

I've been lucky to mix my love of fabric, yarn and paint all together with my dream of writing. I'm currently working on a craft book proposal in addition to the fiction novels I write (which you can read all about on my writing blog Writing Ramblings). I am so thankful that I am able to do all the things I enjoy and to share them with you.

I hope you get a chance to stay a while and look around at all the fun tutorials we've been working on, and I hope you visit again soon...there's always new stuff being posted.

You can also connect with me on Twitter and Facebook! Or if you're interesting in purchasing any of my crafts, visit my shop.

Burp Cloth Tutorial

2010-08-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

A dear friend of mine had her baby shower the other day and I wanted to make her something special. I designed a burp cloth that turned out so adorable and SUPER cozy!

What you need: peanut shape pattern, flannel top fabric, cozy bottom fabric, scissors, pins, sewing machine, matching thread, tags.

Step 1: I printed a peanut shaped pattern and then cut 4 pieces of the quilted fabric and 4 pieces of the back cozy fabric. You can chose any fabric you like. Flannels are the softest for the top, then you can use a chenelle or any soft fabric you want for the bottom.

Step 2: With right sides together pin the front (quilted) and back (cozy) and then sew around the edges using a 1/4" seam allowance. Leave a 2-3 inch opening on one side for turning. I used these markers as my starting and ending point.

(here is my opening, from pin to pin)

Step 3: Snip along the curves so when you turn right side out the edges lay nicely.

Step 4: Pull right side out through the opening.

Step 5: Fold opening pieces inside and insert the tag and pin in place. Sew opening closed.

These come together super easy and quickly.

They turned out SOOOO cute!

Almost makes me want to have another baby...just so I can make some for myself.

Make these for yourself or for your girlfriend. They are a perfect baby shower gift!

Featured On......

2010-08-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

One of the best feelings as a crafter is to know that others like your ideas and projects. And today I'm all smiles because CRESCENDOh featured my crochet heart garland tutorial and Glue Gun Crafts Blog featured my Vintage Button Paper Clip Bookmark and I didn't even know they were going to do it. So check them out...their site is fantastic!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Large Clothespin Stand

2010-08-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

What you'll need: large clothespin (purchase at any craft store), embellishment glue, decorative paper, scissors, embellishments (ribbon, stickers, etc.)

Step 1: Rub glue to the surface of top and apply paper. Smooth with fingers. Repeat on the back side.

Step 2: Pick which side you want to be the front. And begin to decorate it.

Step 3: Once I had the front decorated I applied distress ink to the edges.

Set on any shelf with quote or photo.

Could also be used in the kitchen to hold recipe cards or in the office to hold messages.

Have fun with it!!

Tote on the Go Kit - sewing review

2010-08-04T01:09:00.000-07:00

I came across this adorable tote bag kit at the fabric store recently and thought it would be super fun to try. I've recently gotten into making tote bags and I wanted to see how someone else was putting theirs together. The kit promised I could assemble in three hours and all I had to provide was the sewing machine, thread and scissors...well, and the sewing know how.

(sorry this picture turned out terrible)

The kit had one large piece of fabric that I had to cut apart. I saved the labels with each piece I cut, otherwise I wouldn't have The instructions were fairly simple, the only issue was how the described the grommet, but in the end I figured it out.

The bag turned out really cute and I've used it a lot since I made it.

Cork Board Revamp

2010-08-03T22:32:00.000-07:00

I have a large cork board over my craft desk and it's become a haphazard collection of things I don't know what to do with. In other words, a total eye sore. And since it's the thing directly across from my bed it's the first thing and the last thing I see each day.

So it was time to revamp it. To make it beautiful and fun to look at, yet functional. After all, it is a part of my work space.

What you'll need: large cork board, scrapbook paper, double sided tape, scissors, vinyl calendar sheet, 12x12 metal sheet, magnets, tacks, pictures and other goodies.

Step 1: Start with a clean cork board. Select your favorite scrapbook paper and begin to arrange them on the board until you find the layout you love.

Step 2: Once you have the sheets the way you want them. Apply double-sided tape to the back side of the sheets to adhere to the cork. You could use spray adhesive if you'd like to create a permanent board, but I wanted to be able to change the scrapbook sheets one day.

Step 3: Apply double-sided tape to vinyl calendar sheet and attach over selected paper. And using tacks attach the metal sheet for a magnet board.

Step 4: Attach photos, quotes, pins, etc to the board.

All done!! I was so pleased with the results and now it looks like a work of art.

Bikini Bottom Revamp

2010-07-25T22:05:00.000-07:00

I purchased a black bathing suit recently, but I wasn't able to find bottoms with ties. After a day wearing the bottoms I hated them!! So I decided to transform the decorative ties on the sides into actualy adjustable ties.

Here's how I did it...

Step 1: I used a seam ripper to remove the decorative ties.

Step 2: Using the seam ripper again I removed the stitches holding the side seam together. Once seperated I could see how the suit was put together.

Step 3: My suit lining was attached to the exterior piece, so I wasn't able to insert the tie the way I'd hoped. So I folded over the part of the seam where I removed the stitches and sewed in place.

Step 4: Cut the original tie in half.

Step 5: Tuck ends in and pin ties to each end and sew in place.

Wahla!! Super Easy! And it turned out really well!

And no I won't be showing a picture of the suit on!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Antique Finds

2010-07-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

While at the coast we stopped into a Antique Shop to look around. I went in looking for black & white photos, but instead found these items.

I'm not sure what I'll do with these wooden spools, but I LOVE them.

These package of stamps turned out to be mostly from the early 80's, but there were some pretty neat ones from Australia, Japan and Canada. I'll be using these in the backgrounds of my paintings.

Bottle caps with cork inside...I have no idea what these were used for...Anyone know? I just thought I'd one day regret not having these, so I bought them.

I bought this pattern solely for the pattern paper. I needed it for my backgrounds, but I love this pattern so much I think I'll make one for myself. I'll have to go find another one to tear up.

I didn't buy this at the antique store. This is just a picture of the yarn I'm using to make a Comfort Connor doll. It's for a special someone...shhhh, I can't say who...she might be reading this. I'll show you pictures as I make him. I just love the color combo.

Camera Case

2010-07-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

There isn't a tutorial for this...just thought I'd share. I made this camera case to protect my new camera. The camera has a touch screen on the back and I'm known for throwing my camera into my purse without thought...so I decided to make a padded cover to protect it from the many objects in my purse.

I've also noticed I've done a lot of sewing tutorials lately...I realized I get into these funks where I work with a certain type of medium and kind of stick with it. I have a few more sewing tutorials, but I am working on a few new things.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

From T-Shirt to Tunic

2010-07-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

I repurposed another one of my Twilight t-shirts for my daughter. I already posted the t-shirt to tank top tutorial. If you want…check it out here. This time I wanted to try something a bit different. I wanted to incorporate my new obsession…Elastic Thread. My life had no meaning before. My life is now complete! I swear, you add a little elastic thread to a project and it takes it from great to FABULOUS. I have to warn all of you…there will be lots of elastic thread tutorials coming.

What you’ll need: Old t-shirt, sewing machine, elastic thread, regular coordinating all-purpose thread, scissors, coordinating ribbon.

Step 1: Lay out t-shirt on your cutting table and cut off the sleeves, just inside the seam at the armpit. Do this for both sleeves.

Step 2: Cut around the neck, just inside the seam. You don’t necessarily have to do this. If you’d prefer your tunic to have the t-shirt neckline.

Step 3: Mark the back of the shirt where you’ll want your (elastic). I ended up doing it to the bottom of rib cage. Using sewing machine (with elastic thread wound on bobbin), sew lines across the back. I did ( ) rows and they were ¼ - ½” apart. Make sure to lock your stitch at the beginning and the end. This will help hold your elastic in place.

Step 4: Fold and pin neck line ¼”. Sew using elastic. This will make neck line ruffly.

Step 5: Repeat step 4 on arm holes. I left the arm hole open so my daughter could wear a tank underneath, but if you want you can add a side seam to close up the arm hole a bit.

Step 6: Cut ribbon into two-4” strips. Use fray check on the ends to keep from unraveling. Then tie over shoulder seam. This will create a gather effect.

Your daughter will love this cute and comfy tunic!

Mini Tote Bag

2010-07-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our 13 year anniversary on Sunday and instead of gifts we decided to spend two nights at the Oregon Coast. The weather was supposed to be sunny and hot...turned out to be gray and cold...that's Oregon for you. Nevertheless, it was a nice few days away. We took no work with us and our inn had no Internet, so it forced us to just relax. We slept most of the time. It's amazing how exhausted we felt once we stopped going a hundred miles an hour.

Anyway, I wanted to make myself a cute tote back for the beach and I found this adorable fabric at the fabric store. Although, by the time I was finished the tote bag was so much smaller then I'd hoped...I'll be giving it to my daughter and making myself a bigger one.

I used the basic tote bag tutorial found in Shona Cole's book Artistic Mother. I used her tutorial for the assembly of the tote rather then the design of it.

What you'll need: 4 - 5" x 5" squares of fabric for front, 1 - 3" x 11" strip of coordinating fabric for ruffle, 2 - 4" x 19" fabric strips for handle, 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" fabric for back. 2 - 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" fabric for lining (I used muslin), medium-weighted interfacing, coordinating thread, sewing machine, iron and scissors.

Using a cardboard 4" x 4" trace around square on all four pieces of front cover fabric.

Pin together and sew along traced edges.

Iron seams to flatten in between each seam sewn.

Front view after ironing.

This is what it'll look like once you sew all four pieces together.

Iron interfacing to the wrong side of this front cover.

Take ruffle strip fabric...iron in half and then fold each end in and iron. To create a ruffle by sewing a basting stitch across center of ruffle strip. Pull top thread to gather. You'll want to gather until the ruffle fit across the center of the cover piece.

Pin in place and sew in place. Remove basting stitch afterwards.

Place back fabric piece to the front cover piece. Pin and sew two sides and bottom.

Snip bottom corners and turn right side out.

Should look like this. Set aside while you get liner started.

Place both liner pieces right sides together. But you need to make sure to leave a 3" opening along the bottom edge. I make my opening in the center of the bottom and then sew from each point to the top edge.

Handles: fold strip in half and iron. Then open and fold each end in and iron. I then ironed interfacing into the center section (I wanted the handles to have more solid feel to them). Then you'll fold ends in again and iron.

Then sew along the edge.

Take handles and pin in place. Take first handle and pin to the front. I centered my handle ends with each square. Then to the same for the back handle.

Next slip entire outer piece (with handles pinned to it) into the lining. Make sure you have the lining with the wrong side still facing out.

Pin and sew along the raw edges using a 1/4" seam allowance.

This is the opening in the bottom of the lining. Pull the handles to pull outer shell through the opening.

This is how it should look when you are down.

Fold the raw edges in and sew closed.

Tuck lining into the tote bag like this.

All done!! This one is small. Truly a perfect addition to any young girls outfit. Great for carrying journals or library books.

I will be making a larger one for myself very soon!

Sounds Of The Ocean

2010-07-12T22:11:00.000-07:00

We stayed in Arch Cape just outside of Cannon Beach this weekend and the beach there is rocky. The first night we got there the tide was coming in. We walked along the rocks watching the rough waves as they crashed into the rocks. Then all of a sudden we heard this amazing sound of the rocks as they were pulled into the ocean as the waves retreated. I tried to capture it on video, but I'm still trying to figure out this new camera and I'm not sure this video does it justice.

I'm an ocean/beach girl.

I love everythig about it.

The sound of the ocean. The smell of the salty air. It's like I an finally breathe!

The feel of sand between my toes.

And Everywhere You Look...You See Beauty!!

Dragon Costume

2010-07-12T20:12:00.000-07:00

My kids attended drama camp last week. They’ve been going to the same camp for the last 4 years and it’s truly an amazing experience for them. They spend a week learning their lines, songs and dances, as well as playing on a trampoline and in the creek. The fun, the adventure, and the confidence they gain from their time there is amazing!

So when the kids came home Monday afternoon all excited and announced which character they wanted to play, we started talking about costumes and what they might look like. Of course I got all into it and then volunteered to make the kids costumes.

My daughter was Repunzel and we got lucky because she had a Fiona dress and a long blond wig. But my son was the dragon and we had no dragon costume to pull from. So I set out to design one that would take little money and time.

How to make the dragon head (i.e., the green visor with eyes)

You'll need: A green visor, 2 large black pom poms, 2 large bobble eyes, glue gun

Step 1: Glue bobble eyes to pom poms, set aside until dry.

Step 2: Glue eyes to visor.

SUPER EASY!!

How to make the dragon body (i.e. the shirt)

What you need: Blank green t-shirt, yellow fabric (I used a jersey knit), sewing machine, coordinating thread, stuffing.

Step 1: Cut oval shape from yellow fabric.

Step 2: Pin and sew using zig zag stitch.

Step 3: Cut 4 triangles. Fold fabric in half and cut 6 1/2" x 4 1/2"

This is what it'll look like when opened.

Sew along both sides, leaving a 2" opening for stuffing. I wanted the horns to be rugged, so I did't turn the triangles for clean seams.

Once you fill the triangle sew along opening to close. Repeat for the othe three triangles.

Hand stitch horns onto back side of shirt.

How to sew dragon legs (i.e. pants)

I used the pants pattern from MADE to make these pants. I made them extra wide legged and then used shearing scissors to make the pants leg ends jagged. Then I used a black fabric pen to hand draw scales. I had the wild idea of making individual scales for the entire thing, but that would have taken forever! I settled for using a marker.

To finish off the costume I purchased green flip flops and black knit cuffs to cover his hands.

He loved it! He was the best dragon! And he had the cutest roar!!!

Make Your Own Mouse Pad

2010-07-01T00:53:00.000-07:00

I recently got a Netbook for my new job and I use a USB mouse, instead of the built-in mouse pad, becuase it's just easier to manipulate Excel spreadsheets and images with a regular mouse. The only problem was I kept having to use a piece of paper as my mouse pad when as the dining room table (which has a glass top) or at the library. So tonight I decided to make my own mouse pad since I'm not a big fan of the rubbery store bought kind.

What You'll Need:

Pretty cotton fabric, interfacing (I used medium weighted) , coordinating felt sheet, fabric pen or chalk, Fray Check or Serger, and a sewing machine.

Step 1: Cut your cotton fabric and felt into a desired shape or design. I chose to draw a flower with my fabric pen.

Step 2: If you have a serger, I would serge around the cotton fabric edges to make the ends look neat, but I don't have a serger and the zig zag technique just wouldn't look right here. So I used fray check to seal my edges.

Step 3: Attach your interfacing to the backside of your cotton fabric. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how to do it.

Step 4: Line up your felt piece with the cotton and pin together.

Step 5: Using your sewing machine. Sew around the edges of your design.

And there you go! Super easy!! And now I have a beautiful, one-of-a-kind mouse pad that goes wherever I go.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

When Things Don't Work...Take a Nap!!

2010-06-27T22:12:00.000-07:00

Things have been out of control crazy around here lately. I apologize for the lack of posts and tutorials...but I have a good explanation...Nothing is WORKING!! I have this on slaught of clique statements running through my head, like "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade" or "What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger." And even though I consider myself a positive person, who likes to look at the upside of things...this week has kicked my rear-end!

I started a new job last week and it's turned into way more then I anticipated. More hours...more stress. I'm still trying to fit in enough hours to accomplish all the work that is quickly piling up, and yet I wonder if it's my own "business owner" mentality is making this whole thing more difficult. You see, my husband and I have owned a business for over 10 years. We've been self-employed for so long I have a hard time seeing things as a "employee". I worry about things I shouldn't have to as an employee, yet I do and it only adds to my stress. I am fortunate enough to be able to do 95% of this job from home, yet with the kids, homeschool, my responsibilities to our other companies, my crafting and writing, along with all the cooking and cleaning...my day is so hectic I sometimes wonder which way is up.

Then to top it all off...I dropped my camera while I was working on a purse tutorial (which was frustrating and not working the way I planned anyway) and broke the camera. The fall was from the ironing board to the carpeted floor and I had a lens protector on...and it wasn't the first time in 6 years I'd dropped the damn thing, and sure enough that little fall took the hole thing out. The lens won't go in or out. The camera won't even snap a picture. It's done!

So we spent hours today looking at cameras and I'm a very picky camera person. I know what I like and I know what I don't. I like something to hold on to. I like SLR/Digital Cameras and I like them to be heavy duty. I also need the camera to have video capabilities. We finally decided on two cameras, price ranging from $179 - $399. I of course wanted the more expensive one, because it was EVERYTHING I wanted and yet I liked the cheaper one well enough. But we decided against the cheaper one because it was a touch screen. And I don't know if you've ever owned a cell phone or somethinng electronic that's touch screen...it doesn't last long. I knew that within a year we'd have to purchase another camera just because of the touch screen issues. So after hours of looking over and over each fine detail and then price comparing, we went for the more expensive camera...only to be told that the camera we'd been holding, inspecting, trying out, and researching...WAS OUT OF STOCK!!! Seriously? The sales guy couldn't have told us that hours ago?

Now, I won't bore you with the long, boring details of all my other "things aren't working" issues. But I did want to let you all know that I haven't forgotten about Hip Chicks and that I have lots of fun and summery tutorials to come. You'll just have to forgive the picture quality or lack of pictures until I can get this camera issue figured out. Or I might try to do some video tutorials with the webcam.

And yes...I did have to take a nap today. It's my way of just shutting down when things get to be to much and today was just TO much.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Make Your Own Coloring Book

2010-06-23T21:29:00.000-07:00

My kids just love to color and we seem to always be buying coloring books. The only problem is they can't always find the ones they really want. So I started printing coloring pages offline and instead of having lose paper all over the house, I began combining the kids favorite coloring pages and sewing them together into a book.

To make your own you'll need... printed coloring pages, 1- 8.5"x11" sheet of card stock, 1-1/2"x11" piece of paper, 1-8.5" x 11" sheet of complimentary paper, sewing machine, thread, needle and scissors.

Step 1: Print childs favorite coloring pages.

Step 2: Place card stock sheet on the back of your coloring pages. And decorative sheet on the front.

Step 3: Fold your 1/2" x 11" piece of paper in half long ways.

Step 4: Place folded paper over the left side of the book and clip together. I clip so the pages don't move apart while I'm sewing.

Step 5: Load sewing machine with coordinating color thread. Sew along the edge of the spine with a straight stitch.

Step 6: Thread the string from the front and bring it to the back through the last stitch whole. Then knot and clip.

Now you're kids will have hours of coloring fun!!

From T-Shirt to Tank

2010-06-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

Life has sure been busy around my house lately. Finishing up our school year, starting our summer curriculum. (For those who don't already know...I homeschool my kiddos and even though it's summer...I keep them working on math, reading and writing). Hubby has been swamped with work and I'm starting a new job tomorrow. So my "To Do" list has been terribly long and growing by the minute.

I was able to get some sewing done this weekend. I went through my closet and pulled out a bunch of shirts I don't wear anymore. And some I was able to alter to fit my rapidly growing daughter.

It's a simple pattern. One you've probably seen for a little girl dress. Since my daughter is no longer little I now use a similar pattern, but turn my discarded t-shirts into tank tops for her.

All you do is cut straight across the top, just below the neck line, and then cut the arm pits into a J shape. If you have a serger, you can serge the edges of the arm holes and leave alone, or you can fold over and sew. With this tank I folded over 1/4" seam. Then fold over and top edge of the front and back 1/2", pin and sew close to the edge. I then used red bias tape, inserted through the top folds of the front and the back. My daughter is a thin little thing, and not a big fan of wearing a tight tank top underneath, so I sew a new sew down each side, just below the arm pit.

Once you're all done. Just gather fabric and tie over the shoulders.

Super Easy!!

****
I also made myself a towel dress for the pool (that is if the sun ever returns to Oregon). I found the pattern over at MADE. I ended up getting the same beach towel as Dana. I also had only started learning how to use elastic thread when I saw her tutorial and decided to give it a try and it is now my favorite thing to do. If you haven't tried elastic thread...YOU MUST. Seriously cool stuff! I even turned my practice scraps into Barbie dresses and shirts for my daughters dolls. I'll see if I can get a picture for you.

Product Feature - Comfort Connie and Comfort Connor Crochet Doll

2010-06-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

A few years ago after watching the movie "The Ultimate Gift" I decided I was going to volunteer with a local children cancer organization. I was matched immediately with a teen girl, who was fighting cancer for the second time. She was a brave, courageous young girl, who faced cancer with a smile on her face. She and I became very close and sadly she passed away this April after her cancer returned for a third time.

During my time as her ChemoPal, I had the opportunity to meet other young children who all faced cancer with immense courage. I created a crochet doll that had a flaxseed filled tummy, so depending on how the child was feeling that day they could heat it or freeze it. The tummy compress would give them comfort. For some I even included dried lavender which offered a calming effect. But many children with cancer are very sensitive to smells so I was very careful with their dolls. I've had the privledge of making dolls for terminal kids and to know my dolls brought these little ones comfort during their last days...means more to me then I can put into words.

Quickly my crochet dolls, whom I named Comfort Connie and Comfort Connor, became very popular. My daughter and son absolutely love theirs. My little cousin even carried hers into surgery when she broke her elbow. Each doll made is an individual with their own personalities.

I hope to one day write out the pattern, but for now it resides in my head. If you're interested in buying one of my crochet dolls, visit my shop or contact me personally to order a personalized doll where you can choose the hair color.

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).

Tag Printable for Electric Cords

2010-06-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

Many of you asked for a printable with the electric cord tags. If you haven't seen the tutorial I did a few days back, check it out here.

I filled in a few of the tags, but left many blank for you to fil in yourself. Just print onto card stock and cut out. Hole punch the purple circle and add your favorite ribbon or string. Then attach to your cords so they'll be super easy to find.

Weekend of Sun and Fun

2010-06-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

The sun finally decided to return to the Portland area and we decided to take advantage of it while it was here. For those who don't live in the Portland area, we have had NO sun and LOTS of rain the last few months and we're all going a bit stir-crazy. So we took some time away from the office and studio to spend time with the kiddos.

We went to the park, the Farmer's Market, the pool and the beach...and then we came home and crashed in total exhaustion. I was so worried about keeping the kids covered in sunscreen and hats that I got sunburned myself. Seriously! And it's only my front side, so I look like a lobster from the front. Oh, but I did apply my Clinique face sunscreen (with tint), so the burn is from the neck down. I look retarded!

The kids were fascinated by the river water. They couldn't believe how dirty it was compared to the ocean.

I played at this very river and park when I was about their age and it's kind of surreal to take my own children there.

I took pictures of all the beautiful flowers in bloom.

Flowers can't take a bad picture. It's just not possible. I love to get super close! I'm sure everyone was staring at me and wondering why I was bent so far over these bushes.

Then I took a picture of these beauties...

hanging on this tree.

We walked down the pier and the kids read the rules.

We found a squirrel enjoying the remenants of a sunflower seed bag (which some baseball player had left behind)....

Until he saw us coming closer...

and then he ran toward this tree. My daughter decided she'd try to convince it to let her pet it.

It didn't!

The next day we headed to the beach...Cannon Beach to be exact.

I use lots of beach photos in my art work, so I was excited to get some good shots. Unfortunately it turned out to be a really blustery afternoon and I kept my camera in my bag and away from the blowing sand. But before the wind picked up I took some fun shots of the kids playing.

I take a photo of this lighthouse every single time I'm at the coast. I don't know why...but it fascinates me. I probably have hundreds of photos like this one.

The kids played in the sand.

We watched people riding their horses and voyed to do it as a family this summer some time.

They left me sitting alone while they went to get water.

But the came back :) Although, I'm not sure what has hubby and son so engrossed. See how oblivious my daughter is. She's focused on not spilling any of her precious water.

We had dinner and then ventured back to the beach. So beautiful!

Once our food digested we went to this adorable candy store and they had these cute plaques on the wall. Hubby and I laughed so hard!

Then hubby said this brown one was about him and I nearly cried!

Then he showed me the green one and I nearly did what is suggests.

I wanted to take this white one home.

And then I thought this one was more appropriate since this seems to be out moto these days.

Kids selected candy and I was drooling over all the chocolate. I haven't had anything sugary in over two weeks (long story, will share some time)...and then I saw this sign and thought..."No thanks!"

Don't let the sun fool you...it was windy and CHILLY!

That didn't stop the kids from eating ice cream, however. Or wearing it on their faces.

"Where your mother little girl? You need a spit clean."

Oh and this was before the sunburn. I got that yesterday! And no you won't see pictures of that.

How was your weekend? Do anything fun?

More fun tutorials are coming this week, so come back and let's get crafty!

Hip Chicks Cook Too! Porkchops and Potatoes

2010-06-11T16:27:00.000-07:00

This is my go to dinner. It's super easy and SOOOO yummy! The entire family loves it!

What you'll need:

1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup (condensed)
1 can Cream of Celery Soup (condensed)
4-5 Little Red Potatoes
4-6 Porkchops (I used boneless, but you could use with bone)
Milk
Salt & Pepper
Olive Oil

Instructions:

1) Open both cans of soup and put into large baking dish. Mix in one can of milk. Stir until combined.

2) Wash and slice potatoes into cubes. I like them slightly thick, so they don't get mushy. Once all potatoes are cut, put into soup mixture.

3) Brown porkchops of both sides in about 1-2 tables of Olive Oil.

4) Put browned porkchops into soup and potatoe mixture. I like to bury the porkchops under the soup gravy.

5) Top with salt and pepper. About 1 teaspoon. You can also add more to each serving.

6) Put into oven at 375 and bake for 30-45 minutes. It depends on your oven and how many porkchops you are doing. You'll want to make sure the porkchops are cooked all the way through before removing from oven.

7) Serve up porkchops with potatoes and lots of the soup gravy.

Enjoy!!

(Copyright Information: This pattern, including text and images, is copyrighted to Heidi Cogdill, Hip Chicks Craft Too. No part of this pattern can be copied, shared, distributed or sold. All rights reserved. No commercial use of this pattern is allowed (which means you cannot sell the finished product).