Simply Fun Stuff

Simple Embroidery Ideas for Valentine's Day

2012-01-28T09:42:00.000-08:00

There's something really charming about a simple hand stitched embroidery. Embellishing handmade or store bought items with one could make for the perfect thoughtful little Valentine's day gift :)

Images Clockwise from top left:

X-Stitched Hand Warmer DIY Tutorial at Instructables

Free Hug Bot Pattern from Sublime Stitching

Hand Embroidered Rose Sachets from TheStoryofKat

Zipper Pouch from allisajacobs

$5 pattern from FlapperDoodle

Make a Coffee Sleeve for Your Valentine

2012-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

Valentine's gifts can get way out of control (you won't see any dissapointment from me when I do not receive a diamond tennis bracelet or an open heart necklace :). I do have fun giving cards and making thoughtful little crafts though, like this coffee sleeve from Smilemonsters. I may have to make myself one so I can cover up the beer glass I usually drink my morning tea out of!

How will you celebrate Valentine's Day?

Be My Valentine?

2012-01-09T20:04:00.000-08:00

Are these cards enough to convince you? Pretty Please? :D

Happy New Year! Bonne Annee! Bueno Ano? ...

2012-01-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

Yeah I can't remember how to say it in Spanish :) But you can save 20% off this month at Simply Pretty Prints with the following coupon code.

SPP2012

Whishing you Happiness and Health in this Happy New Year!

-Sarah

Christmas Wiener

2011-12-11T22:16:00.000-08:00

What gives a warm and fuzzy holiday feeling more than a Daschund wearing a sweater? My little fashionable weiner is an original design of mine, comes in 3 configurations, and is printed on high quality card stock using my new Konica Minolta laser printer (more on that later).

Twig Christmas Tree

2011-12-07T19:52:00.000-08:00

I love this Christmas tree! I can never justisfy buying a real one for our place, considering it's just the two of us, and we are usually celebrating somewhere else. I am a sucker for the holidays though and love to get into the Christmas spirit, which often means driving my husband bananas by listening to Christmas music on December 1st. Let's see what he thinks of me making a twig tree like this one from The Art of Doing Stuff. :D

To Craft Show or not to Craft Show? A Realization.

2011-11-27T16:33:00.000-08:00

Last Year I sort of swore off craft shows. Why you ask? Don't get me wrong, for the buyer, they are an excellent way to find unique gifts at reasonable prices. For the seller however, they can be a lot of work with little return. Even at the good ones, it's hard to offset the cost of the entry fees, sales commission, table rentals, and the countless hours of preparation and transportation of all my breakable houseware items. To top it off, I had an item stolen at the last one I did. An item so special to me, it was marked "not for sale". FINE. NO MORE CRAFT SHOWS.

Fast forward one year to the 2011 holiday season and I am in a bit of a funk. Aside from one or two things, I haven't listed many new designs. To be honest, I haven't even had much holiday spirit. Needing some inspiration, I decided to hit a few local boutiques on small business Saturday. While perusing the aisles, I felt the glimmer of excitement I once had discovering new treats while meeting my fellow vendors at craft shows. Not only did I find many unique gifts, I recognized many Etsy seller's items on the shelves. How awesome to see these artists' handmade creations in the flesh! At one location, a vendor was carefully restocking her shelves with her husband as I browsed her darling laser cut ornaments. With a sparkle in her eye, she stepped aside and struck up a conversation as I made my selection. Then it really hit hit me. THIS, this is why I do craft shows. It's discovering something new while meeting new people with a common passion. It's the excitement of knowing that a stranger might choose to spend their hard earned dollars on my creation. So there I was, now wanting to participate in some way in a Holiday Craft Show on November 26th, with surely no way to do so.

Enter Melinda of Dress and Nest. Like a little Handmade Holiday angel, she sent me an email with a last minute invitation to participate in The Perfect Winter Pop Up Shop. With music, drinks, and shopping, not only does this sound like a great time on a Saturday night, but it may be that kick in the pants I was looking for. And the bonus? Tables and linens provided, and no entry fees or commission taken! Only a donation of five $5 dollar drink tickets for five lucky visitors. It's win-win. Thanks Melinda!

Hope to see you all there!

Alternative Christmas Tree

2011-11-26T06:28:00.000-08:00

If you don't have the space or money for the usual Christmas tree, or are simply looking for something different, check out In The Loop by CB2 for some unique ideas!

Naughty or Nice?

2011-11-25T15:26:00.000-08:00

Have you been naughty or nice this year? Well, if you've been a little of both, this pair of hand painted coffee mugs is for you! Perfect for a large cup of coffee or tea, hot cocoa, hot buttered rum, or your favorite hot winter beverage!

HOLIDAY SHOPPING COMMENCE!

2011-11-23T11:01:00.001-08:00

Actually, it's a Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday sale!

THIS THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY TAKE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF ALL ITEMS! USE COUPON CODE "TURKEY" AT CHECKOUT!

Cup Sighting! Brittany Lynn Photography

2011-11-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

Local photographer Brittany Lynn has used some of my cups as wedding photo props! I just love this idea :) For this great shot and more, check out her facebook page. Thanks Brittany!

Gifts for Pet Lovers

2011-11-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

After receiveing a custom inquiry from a local pet store owner, I put together wholesale info for a series of Pet Related Designs. Hoping she loves them! Here is a Sneak Peak:

Hilarious Paper Dolls

2011-10-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry, but if you don't watch Arrested Development, Breaking Bad, or Parks and Recreation, I have to ask " why not?" Then, I have to tell you about these hilarious paper dolls I found on Buzz Feed. Go there and cut them out immediately! Note, I've never seen the Tim and Eric Awesome Show, but now I must.

Curate Your Home with REDNOOK

2011-10-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Looking for something new for your home at unbeatable prices? Perhaps you need a new bed, or are just looking for some accent pillows. Take a look at REDNOOK, a website that features weekly events at discount prices on big brands to handmade art. You'll need to create an account and login to browse and purchase, and once you do you may just see someone familiar at the top of the page :)

Recycle Plastic Bags Into Beautiful Little Vessels

2011-10-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

A beautiful, functional new use for old stuff: turn those annoying plastic grocery bags into cups, bowls, and vases! Fabulous idea and lots more wonderful images from Supercyclers found via PoppyTalk.

I'm In Love With This Fruit Bowl

2011-09-27T18:45:00.000-07:00

I didn't know that it was possible to have a love affair with a fruit bowl. After months of looking and looking on Etsy, and all over the internet for the perfect white fruit bowl (we eat a lot of fruit!), I found this one, just moments after entering the scary Saturday-afternoon big-box home-improvement doors of IKEA. It now resides nicely, full of fruit, on our dining room table. (Bowl pictured above in polished stainless steel and white).

Chevron: So What Do You Really Think?

2011-09-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Here are a few nice chevron patterned items in a color scheme I'm digging lately. Has this pattern grown on you like it has on me? What do you think of the modern boldness of this pattern? Would you wear it or use it to decorate your house? Share your thoughts!

Pictures from Top left:

Crosstown purse from Virginia Clara

Chair from Urban Outfitters

Pillow from Modernality2

DIY Chevron Desk Makeover from Sunset

Wallpaper: It's Not Just for Old Ladies

2011-09-16T19:52:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd being excited about wallpaper, but whatdaya know! There are some great surface designers out there whose work is making it into wallpaper these days. This one called Woodpile, by Roddy&Ginger, is cozy yet modern enough to convince me that wallpaper could be a very good thing. Image found via my new favorite blog, Print & Pattern. Thank you for sharing such great design!

New Stuff!

2011-09-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

A quick post to show you the latest spin on my garden markers. Now available in my shop!

Water, Refreshed

2011-09-05T21:47:00.000-07:00

Have a hard time drinking your 8 glasses a day? Try infusing your water with cucumber, which somehow makes it taste more refreshing. We made up a carafe of the stuff this past Labor day weekend, though ours also contained slices of sweet homegrown grapefruit. Lemon and fresh herbs are also a nice compliment! (Picture from extraordinary lifestyle).

Home Office Upgrades

2011-09-01T21:01:00.000-07:00

The picture of my ideal home office is slowing evolving. No peacock blue chairs or giant yellow and grey artwork. In fact, the only items I have from "take 1" are the desk, the baskets, and the "Live What You Love Poster". I'm going for clean and crisp with pops of color. So what better way to start than with white? At least I convinced myself of that last weekend when I ordered these latest additions:

The 24" BenQ LCD monitor pictured above from BenQ.com

The genuine leather desk chair pictured above from Amazon.com

And finally, this Logitech wireless mouse also from Amazon. Now I just need a wireless keyboard to match :D

Stay tuned for stage 2 of the office home makeover and the final results!

Inspired by Brooklyn, NY

2011-08-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some fun things that remind me of my recent stay in the DUMBO area of Brooklyn. If you are planning a trip to NYC, I highly recommend staying in this area. We rented a sweet loft apartment there just between the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. One of my favorite parts from the trip was hanging out on the grassy hill at Brooklyn Bridge Park with a view of the Manhattan skyline just across the East River. It was the perfect summer evening and there were tons of locals picnicing and waiting in anticipation of the showing of "Breakfast at Tiffany's" on a giant inflatable movie screen. Good times!

From the top left:

1. High-waisted skirt from Urban Outfitters

2. Sweet ride from an article I found online entitled "Brooklyn’s Bicycle Man Uses Two Wheels To Bring Hasids and Hipsters Together"

3. Ray Bans: classic.

4. Soap in the form of a piece of Brooklyn style pizza from AJ Sweet Soap!

5. Hand-carved Brooklyn bridge stamp by Stamps By Sachi

My Trip to NYC

2011-08-21T20:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry readers, but a recent trip to NYC is to blame for my lack of posts lately. Here is a collection of some random pics for you.

From the top:

1. The amazing view of the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn DUMBO area (where we stayed)

2. Local Brew

3. Bike cozy found under the Brooklyn bridge

4. Ballerina in Central Park

5. Brooklyn Bridge

6. No Pizza! Posted on the door of a restaurant near Grimaldi's Pizza, known for some of the best local pies with a line that wrapped around the block. Apparently this place was tired of people looking for alternatives.

6. Trump Ice...Seriously?

7. Elmo (and his wife?) takes a stroll in central park.

Stay tuned for more about my trip to the one of the most exciting cities in the world!

New Screen Printed Mugs!

2011-08-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to share my new screen printed mugs! Professionally printed in the USA and available in my shop and for wholesale, individually or in pairs. More designs to come soon!

Turquoise Delight: Tuesday Treasure

2011-08-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

Looking for gift ideas? Check out this collection!

Listomania! Download and Print

2011-07-28T18:50:00.000-07:00

I love lists. Well, maybe I don't love them, but I do make a lot of them and feel good when I check things off of them. And despite the blackberry that rarely leaves my side, my lists are usually on folded pieces of used printer paper or post-its with a bunch of tiny writing that only I can decipher. There is just something so satisfying about taking a pen and crossing an item off that paper list! I know, I may have a problem :) If you'd like your lists to say you're a little less crazy and a little more cute and goal-oriented, download and print this template from Julie Ann Art. Thanks Julie!

Make a Sock Monkey Hat

2011-07-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

As my mom always says, "sock monkeys bring joy to everyone". Well now you can spread some joy by making this adorable baby sock monkey hat with a tutorial from Do Ah Diddy. My cousin Juleah made the one pictured here for her little boy (also pictured here - could he be any cuter?). She claims this was her first crocheting project, but I think she must be lying. Closet crocheter!

Thanks to Juleah for sharing this idea and beautiful picture of her little boy, who certainly needs no sock monkeys to bring joy to those around him.

Need some general crocheting tips? Check out these helpful videos on You Tube from Crochet Geek!

Make a Wine Stopper with a Drawer Pull

2011-07-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

I've had my eye on all those cute drawer pulls at Anthropolgie for quite some time. I was just sure they were a craft project waiting to happen, but never actually got around to making it so. Well, the clever girls at the Spotted Fox have done it and you can too! Check out their tutorial for these wine stoppers here.

Wedding Party Loves Life

2011-07-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked to create a custom design for a wedding party. The bride picked the colors and asked for either a tree or a flower. Knowing aspen trees grow in her area of the country, I sketched up one and added an inspiring phrase chosen by the bride. Expressing my creativity makes me love life. How about you?

Tuesday Treasure

2011-07-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

A well curated treasury. Get more details here!

Perfect Hot Summer Meal

2011-07-11T17:52:00.000-07:00

When it's too hot to cook, try this no-cook, easy and delicious recipe for Vietnamese Summer Rolls from White on Rice Couple Todd Porter and Diane Cu. This is one of my all time favorite dishes because it utilizes so many great fresh ingredients, is totally customizable to your taste, and is fun to assemble! I had these at a Vietnamese restaurant several years ago and have been making them regularly ever since. Unlike the recipe shared here, my husband and I prefer to set out all the pre-washed and pre-cut ingredients in a selection of serving dishes and let our guests go to town! It gets everyone involved so it's great for parties. To add more variety, you can also include sauteed shrimp, chicken or steak, and offer a variety of dipping sauces like soy, peanut, sweet and sour, spicy mustard, etc. The possibilities are endless!

New Cake Platters!

2011-07-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Recently added cake platters now in my shop!

Tuesday Treasure

2011-07-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

I have been fortunate enough to be included in some really great treasuries lately. Here is one of my favorites :)

Free Printable Birthday Card

2011-06-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

Looking for a last minute birthday card, I stumbled upon this little beauty from the always talented Susan Connor of Suzy Jack. Go check out her blog and then download and print this card for free. The design is about a year old, but still perfect. Thank you Susan!

Tuesday Treasure

2011-06-28T18:21:00.000-07:00

Arrr Matey, it's Tuesday Treasure! Click here to get more info on the items above!

Wall Art to Make with Paint Chips

2011-06-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

Make something unique on the cheap with paint chips! I have to wonder how many paint chips are walking away from home improvement stores these days to be used for crafty projects and not for paint sampling ? :)

Clockwise from top left:

Geometric Wall Art from Angelina La Dawn via Iamalongfortheride

My personal favorite paint chip art from the 3 Rs blog. Check out the other color schemes!

Circular paint chip art from the 3 Rs blog.

Letterpress Paint Chip art by Paper Stories found via Not Beige

Wall paper paint chips via Pageslap

Creative Wedding Gift Wrap Ideas

2011-06-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

It's wedding season, and unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your personality :), wedding registries don't leave much room for creativity in your gift giving experience. Well, get your creative juices flowing again with some not so run-of-the-mill gift wrap!

Images clockwise from top left:

1. Use vintage stamps and twine to embellish plain brown craft paper. Perfect for destination weddings or for the couple who loves to travel. Found on Signed By Tina.
2. Create dramatic gift wrap with hand cut silhouettes of the bride and groom. See more at Woman's Day.
3. Give your husband or wife something they can re-use after opening their gift, with reusable gift wrap from Chewing the Cud. Many more styles available!
4. Create a unique keepsake for the bride and groom with vintage scrabble tiles. This one is on a pillow, but could work just as well on gift wrap. Found via Creation Inspiration

Do you love this collection as much as I do? <3

Tasty Stuff: Non-Alcoholic Orange Mint Cocktail

2011-06-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

My husband is a culinary genius. But he keeps me well fed, so there's a chance I'm biased :). Anyway, he surprised me with a tasty Orange Mint Non-Alcoholic Cocktail on Sunday just after I returned from a 33 mile bike ride. Now that's refreshing!

To make, just mix the following:

a handfull of orange mint, pulverized in an herb grinder (or crushed with a mortar and pestle)
sugar to taste
1/2 lime
sprig of orange mint for garnish
tonic water
ice

Note: you can substitute regular mint if you don't have orange mint. Or go crazy, and try apple mint, lemon mint, or pineapple mint!

$15 Gift Certificate Giveaway!

2011-06-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

It's been too long since my last giveaway. To enter to win a $15 gift certificate to my shop, just leave a comment on this post. For (1) additional entry, follow my blog, for another (1) entry, follow me on twitter. Leave a seperate comment for each entry. Winner to be announced next Monday. Good Luck!

UPDATE: This giveaway is now closed. Tras el Secreto de Venus is the winner and will be contacted via email :)
Thanks!

Sarah

Fun Magnet Projects

2011-05-30T15:20:00.000-07:00

These magnets are so freaking cute, they make me want to clutter up my fridge with all sorts of stuff!

Clockwise starting at the top left:

Pantone Magnets from How About Orange. I want to try this with paint chips!

Vintage Milk Bottle Magnets from Design Sponge

Tiny Polaroid Magnets from Ambrosia Girl.

Miniature Terrarium Magnets from ThatSovietGuy

Wedding Show Pics By Unveiled Wedding Photography

2011-05-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

I met some really nice people at the Orfila Winery Wedding Show I did recently, including talented photographer Mark of Unveiled Wedding Photography, who took some great shots of my products. Here is a sampling. Thanks Mark!

Chillin' and Grillin' Burgers This Memorial Day

2011-05-24T23:04:00.000-07:00

Real Simple magazine has a spread of tasty burgers that are now available on their website. The Chipotle Mayo Grilled Onion version above is just one of the tasty options to consider for this long (unoffiical) summer weekend.

I plan to do a lot of grillin' and chillin' this Memorial Day weekend. What will you do?

Affordable Wedding Save the Dates and Invitations

2011-05-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Pssst... Have you seen all of my new Invitations and Save the Date designs? Want a different color? Well they're all customizable! I hope you'll stop by my shop to find out more!

Wedding DIY and Inspiration: It's All In The Details

2011-05-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Sarah from Deeds and Petunia has just debuted her beautiful Online Magazine, "It's all in the Details", a Wedding e-zine with lots of easy tutorials and really inspiring photos. Take a peek here and then stop by her blog to show her some love! You may even just spot some familiar items and pick up some discounts while you are at it :)

Last Minute Mother's Day Cards

2011-05-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

In need of a last minute Mother's Day Card? Well why not print one for free? I was actually pleasantly surprised by the selection of free printable cards over at HP. This one particularly spoke to me, and my mom will know why :)

Happy Mother's Day!

Fresh New Look and Color Swatch!

2011-05-02T18:53:00.000-07:00

I'd love it if you stopped by my shop to give me feedback on my new look and color swatch! Lots more new items on the way as well as a 10% off coupon!

Thanks for all of your support!

Sarah

Planter Place Cards Have Sprung at Deeds and Petunia

2011-04-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Sarah of Deeds and Petunia just released some sneak peeks of her upcoming "It's All In The Details..." free online Wedding Inspiration E-Zine. She did an amazing job and I simply can't wait to see more! View more inspirational wedding ideas at her blog here. See my place cards here. :)

Someone Please Make This a Reality

2011-04-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

When the RE 35 was announced earlier this month, the world got very excited. It promised to be an amazing product that would convert your dust-collecting analog camera into a digital one. The problem? The product does not actually exist! Read the disclaimer on the bottom of the company website and you'll find it was just a cruel April Fool's joke. However, the response to the RE 35 was so overwhelming that the design firm that launched the hoax is now seriously studying how to make it into a reality. Maybe I'll hold on to that old film camera for a little while longer after all :)

10 New Custom Invitations To Show at the Show!

2011-04-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

I've been busting my hump over here getting ready for this weekend's bridal show. It appears my late night last night has paid off, because I'm super excited about the 10 new wedding save the date samples I just received from my printer! Here is a sneak peak of one of the not so traditional (to be listed in my online shop as soon as humanly possible :)

Hope you like them and see you at the show!
-Sarah

My Latest Handmade Purchase

2011-04-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

While looking for birthday gifts, I came across a little something for myself over at etsy shop Happy Family. This shirt initially appealed to me because of its apparent "live off the grid" message, but there's more to this design than I knew. According to the description, "In October 1939 the Government launched 'The Dig for Victory' campaign. People were urged to use gardens and every spare piece of land, such as parks, golf clubs and tennis courts, to grow vegetables. Even the moat at the Tower of London was used to grow vegetables. "We want not only the big man with the plough but the little man with the spade to get busy this autumn. Let 'Dig for Victory' be the motto of everyone with a garden," - Rob Hudson, Minister for Agriculture, in October 1939." The ever so popular "Keep Calm and Carry On", also issued by the British Government, is another one of many great posters from WWII.

Thank you Happy Family for the super soft, history rich t-shirt! I absolutely love it. Want one? Happy Family is currently having a 10% off sale and giving away a free tote bag with the design of your choice with every 2 items purchased!

RANDOM DEAL OF THE DAY

2011-04-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

The first person to email me at sarah.simplyfunstuff (at)gmail.com gets a 10% off coupon to http://www.simplyprettyprints.com/. The only condition is that you must make the purchase within 24 hrs! (that's why it's the deal of the day :)

Cool Stuff: Branch Coat Hanger

2011-04-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

photo from: funkyinteriors.com

photo from: The Container Store

I ventured into the big ole Container Store yesterday and came out with two of these cool white branch coat hangers. A little more than I planned to spend at $20 each, but I've been looking for something unique for my office for a few weeks. Now instead of throwing my keys, coat, and purse into a pile, they will look uber cool hanging on these little beauties.

Inspirational e-Zine: At Home with Valley & Co Spring Edition!

2011-03-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

Here is just a preview of the inspiring online magazine just issued by the talent over at Valley and Co. Whether you prefer a good cocktail or are a teetotaler, this edition has lots of entertaining tips for you. Pictured above is just one of many spring brunch ideas featured (in which my new hand printed plant marker placecards just happened photographed :). The spring magazine also offers many beautiful wedding and honeymoon ideas, all presented with eye catching photographs. Read the full edition here now. Enjoy!

DIY: Not So Boring Magnet Board

2011-03-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is not rocket science, but it is a cheap an easy way to turn a run of the mill magnet board into a functional piece of art for as low as 16 bucks. Get yourself a metal magnet board (Ikea has them in several fun colors) and then find a vinyl sticker that speaks to you (Etsy has a TON of them) and voila! you have a magnet board that can hold lots of useful notes and look good while doing it!

Below are mock-ups of the two I made (stickers not necessarily to scale) for my home office using vinyl stickers from Byrdie Graphics ($3) and Vinyl Fruit ($17, but I could not resist the kleptomaniac sasquatch!).

Tasty Stuff: Almond Meal Bread

2011-03-29T04:16:00.000-07:00

Regular readers know that I've recently made an amazing culinary discovery: Homemade Almond Milk. And those of you who have actually made it, know that you are left over with lots of almond meal which you can hardly justify throwing into the garbage. Well, yesterday I finally made use of it, and you can too with this super easy Almond Meal Bread Recipe from Novel Eats! I mostly followed the recipe with the exception of a few alterations (some good, some not so good):

1. I quadrupled the amount of almond meal used. That's right QUADRUPULED. Call me crazy, but I really wanted to make good use of the stuff. Perhaps it's why the loaf weighs more than a gold brick. Or perhaps it's because I mistakenly used boiling hot water, deactivating the yeast. Next time, I will still quadruple the almond meal, but will also reduce the amount of flour and use luke warm water.
2. I baked mine in a bread pan so it's shaped better for sandwhiches --> Good call.
3. In an effort to achieve a nice golden brown crust, I slathered some butter on top after it was done baking, put my oven on broil, and put it back in. When it didn't brown right away, I persisted and unfortunately I think I ended up over cooking the bread. Still really tasty, but a bit dry. Next time I will live with non-golden crust. (Seperate subject, but now I'm wondering if you can really even broil anything in a gas oven???)

Try it for yourself and let me know what you think or try another almond meal recipe and share that too!

Orfila Winery Wedding Show

2011-03-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

In just 3 short weeks from now, I will be participating in my first ever bridal show! Stop by one of my favorite local wineries to say hi, see my new wedding items and invitation designs, and taste some great wine!

Sunpak Ebox Portable Photo Studio

2011-03-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

My husband recently surprised me with this portable photo studio from Sunpak (what a guy!) because he knew how much I could use it for shooting my products. Not only did it come with two compact folding halogen 50-watt lights and a small tripod, but it also has a reversible and replaceable seemless back drop, all packaged nicely in a handy dandy carrying case. I'm still experimenting with the best lighting configurations, but I am pretty happy with the results so far:

For this shot, I increased the exposure on my camera (just a typical point and shoot digital) because otherwise the image wasn't quite bright enough for me. I'm not sure this will be a general requirement or if I can tweak the light positions a bit and get better results. Either way, this baby gives me a lot more flexibility in terms of when I can shoot my products because I no longer have to plan for optimum natural light.

If anyone out there has experience with other photo studios, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Feeling SIlly

2011-03-21T21:14:00.000-07:00

Feeling silly and not yet over putting talk bubbles on everything, I painted up this gravy boat last weekend.
Perhaps you just got married and you need an obligatory gravy boat, or perhaps you just want to say congratulations or make amends with an old friend. Either way, It's all gravy baby!!!

For Japan With Love

2011-03-18T06:02:00.000-07:00

Tasty Stuff: Rosemary Lemonade

2011-03-10T20:16:00.000-08:00

Spring means lots of fresh herbs, so there's no better time to try this recipe for Rosemary Lemonade. This delicious concoction comes to us from Aleah and Nick Valley of Valley and Co., the dynamic wedding/event-planning-husband-and-wife duo. Check out their blog for more inspiring DIY ideas and photos!..... Don't have any fresh rosemary? Try Basil Lemonade!

Hand Stamped Note Cards

2011-03-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

Months have gone by since I hand carved out this stamp. It quickly became a dust collector after I was less than thrilled with the results I got when stamping it on fabric. Well, it's been dusted off and here is what it looks like on paper. Now in my shop!

Spring Place Cards!

2011-03-02T19:22:00.000-08:00

I am now offering these place cards a la plant markers for your spring wedding or special event!

Martha Stewart Wedding Blog Feature!

2011-02-24T22:03:00.000-08:00

Getting Married? Like orange? Kimberly and Beka of Styled Creative put together this great collection of orange and white items for the Bride's Guide (Martha Stewart's Wedding Blog) and I was lucky enough to have my espresso mugs included!

New Gift Tags

2011-02-22T20:07:00.000-08:00

Why hello there. Thought I'd share my new gift tags with you. Now you can feel even better about each gift you buy from Simply Pretty Prints because not only will it come with a tag that says "hello" to the recipient, it also inlcudes care instructions (where applicable). You are so thoughtful.

20% Off on Presidents Day

2011-02-21T09:01:00.000-08:00

20% off at SimplyPrettyPrints.com !

Good today only to the first person who emails me at sarah.simplyfunstuff@gmail.com. Good Luck!

Yum...

2011-02-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

...and Happy Valentine's Day! (Thank you to my friend JK for the virtual cupcake :)

Win $50 Worth of Baking Supplies from Smidge and Pinch!

2011-02-09T18:30:00.000-08:00

Theresa of Smidge and Pinch, your one stop shop for baking and posh party supplies, has generously donated a $50 gift certificate to one of my lucky readers. Just think of all the homemade goodness you can make with a new set of cookie cutters, cupcake liners, and let's not forget, lots and lots of sprinkles. Smidge and Pinch mixes your school colors and adds coordinating labels to make their famous School Spirit Sprinkles, perfect for school fundrasiers. Don't see what you're looking for? No worries, Theresa welcomes custom orders!

To win, just leave a comment on this post. For an extra entry, visit Smidge and Pinch and leave another comment with your favorite item. Following my blog will get you yet another entry (leave a comment stating that you are a follower). Winner will be announced next Wednesday. Good Luck!

Free Personalized Valentine's Day Card

2011-02-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

All items purchased from my shop from now until Valentine's Day will be accompanied by a free personalized note card! Just leave the details in the "note to seller" upon checkout.

Another Culinary Discovery

2011-01-30T12:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, maybe not as life changing as almond milk (am I being dramatic?), but definitely more fun. When I was recently introduced to the "one-eye", a.k.a "egg in the nest", I thought I must have been living under a rock to not know about this egg and toast breakfast deliciousness. Check out Cute Food For Kids to get the step by step instructions for the Valentine's Day version, complete with the how-to for ketchup hearts.

Amazing Culinary Discovery

2011-01-24T19:56:00.000-08:00

So I won't bore you with the details of why we've recently stopped buying cow's milk, but let's just say that whether you are looking for an alternative or not, Almond Milk is a must try! This delicicous drink is low in calories, super easy to make, and can be dressed up to make many fun flavor varieties (strawberry, vanilla, etc.). Check out the recipe and more beautiful pictures from The Parsley Thief and then let me know if you have been converted. My husband, the chef in the house, preferred to substitute 2 tablespoons of raw sugar, in lieu of the highly processed agave nectar (please don't get him started), along with a pinch of salt to bring out the subtly delicious almond flavor.

Not Like a Box of Chocolates

2011-01-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

Why give a boring box of chocolates this Valentine's Day when you can create something just as tasty, and way more personal, like this crossword cookies and cake set from I Am Baker?

New Valentine's Day Items!

2011-01-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

Gearing up for Valentine's Day, I recently added these sweet little heart-shaped dishes to my shop. Hope you <3 them :)

Home Office, Take One

2010-12-30T08:13:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm super excited about moving because it's going to mean lots more space. So much so, that we're getting a ping pong table (yeauh!) and that I will have a room all to myself! Wowser! A room all to myself that I get to decorate from scratch? Where do I start? How about grey, yellow, and a few splashes of peacock blue? And the prices of all these inspirational pieces are pretty reasonable with the exception of the chair. Well maybe $400 isn't unreasonable for a comfy leather chair, though it's hard to justify when I have a perfectly good desk chair already. A perfectly good old boring black desk chair.

Clockwise from top left:
Lamp from Target
Chair from Pier 1 (I could get so much more work done while sitting in this $400 chair)
Art Print from Etsy Seller Pretty Much Art (hoping she can make me a BIG version)
Baskets from Pier 1 (Have them, check)
Candle from Pier 1
Bicycle Painting from http://www.bicyclepaintings.com/ (hoping she can make me a yellow one)
Rug From Ikea
Desk from ? Doesn't matter, already have one
Letterpress poster from Etsy seller Hijirik
Amy Butler Fabrics (just in case I have random items that I need to cover in fabric)

It's Giveaway & Sale Time Again!

2010-12-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

It's almost a new year, and that means it's time for new beginnings! What better time to have a clearance sale and a giveaway? Now through January 14th, save 10% on everything in my shop by entering the coupon code HAPPYNEWYEAR (all one word, no spaces)! AND enter to win one of my glass hand painted tiles in the color of your choice ($18 in my shop). Just leave a comment on this post. (1) additional entry if you are a blog follower and (1) additional entry if you follow on twitter. Leave a comment for each entry. Winner will be announced on January 14th.

Creative Gift Wrap

2010-12-21T20:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays Readers! I've missed you, but I am moving AND it's the holidays. Crazy times! I am pleased to say I had a great season over at Simply Pretty Prints, meeting and exceeding my goal of 100 sales! Looking forward to more exciting things in 2011. Ok, now for some brief holiday blogging...I like to think that I put *almost* as much thought into gift wrapping as the gifts I buy. Here is some good gift wrapping inspiration from Compai found via The Gifted Blog. Apparently you can use just about anything to jazz up plain old brown kraft paper!

Cute and Unique Printable Gift Tags

2010-12-08T20:30:00.000-08:00

More Free Holiday Goodies! I love these little sketches from The Black Apple, don't you? So go wrap up something nice and slap one of these cuties on!

Calla Lily Painting

2010-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

A prospective customer recently asked me to paint her a Mango Calla Lily ring dish, and I quickly said "sure", even though I had never painted one before. Well here is the finished product, I am happy I was able to pull off!

Thanks for the challenge!

Postcard Style Holiday Gift Tags

2010-11-30T06:53:00.000-08:00

I'm lovin' these postcard style gift tags from Eat Drink Chic (my latest favorite blog discovery). Download them and pair with a little baker's twine for a creative holiday gift wrapping solution.

10% OFF in My Shop Through Monday

2010-11-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

SALE

Through tomorrow in my shop, just use the coupon code "HOLIDAYSALE" to receive 10% off!

Win $ Toward Craft Supplies and More at CSN!

2010-11-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can buy craft supplies like the ones above over at CSN stores? And today you can also enter to win a $45 gift certificate to put toward anything from a barstool to craft supplies at CSN stores, just in time for your holiday shopping.

To win, just leave a comment here. Earn one additional entry for (1) following my blog, (1) following me on twitter. Leave a comment for each entry. Open to U.S. and Canadian readers only.

Happy Thanksgiving and good luck! I will announce the winner next Wednesday.

-Sarah

I will never be French

2010-11-17T20:47:00.000-08:00

But, I created lots of items with French Phrases on them for my shop and the craft show I participated in last weekend. Not all listed yet, but here is a glimpse....

What can I say, I am an American living in San Diego surrounded by French people....you know who you are! :)

Zeppiprints Giveaway!

2010-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

We are long overdue for a handmade giveaway, and how better to start up again, but with a lovely customized 8x10' museum quality archival print from up and coming etsy seller Robin of Zeppiprints!

To win, simply visit Zeppiprints and leave a comment here with your favorite item from Robin's shop. For additional entries, (1) follow this blog, and/or (1) follow SimplyFunStuff on twitter. (Leave a comment for each of your entries.) Winner will be announced next Monday.

Now let's here some more about Robin of Zeppiprints:

Describe your perfect day:

My perfect day would be divided into family time and work time. I would start the day with design time on my computer, it's the first thing I think of when I wake up! My son, who is 18 months old, sleeps a couple of hours longer than I do, so it's time when I can really concentrate. Later, I would take my husband and son for brunch, my favorite meal. Then, we'd drive out to the beach and take photos. I consider myself extremely fortunate because I can actually have "my perfect day" if I choose.

Where/when so ideas hit you? Where do you find inspiration?

I come up with more ideas than I could ever actually create. This is my strong point and weak point all at the same time. At any point in the day, everywhere I look, I see ideas for new designs. There are countless notebooks and scraps of paper lying around my house, completely unorganized, full of ideas. The problem is focus. I love all colors and patterns, so it's very hard to create a cohesive style.

It's awesome when you see a shop that looks like a great magazine spread, or the front page of Etsy...but that's not my shop! I might create a conservative nature inspired acorn print one day and a nursery print covered with bright patterns the next! That's the beauty of design, the freedom.
Describe your perfect workspace
My perfect workspace would be an industrial loft in an urban setting with a great view of the Cliffs of Moher. Led Zeppelin would be off to the side playing "Tangerine" and my computer would be sitting among fresh flowers and gourmet chocolates. That would be perfect!

On a more realistic level, I would love an open space with tons of natural light, chic furniture, and less toys.
What drives or motivates you?

I'm motivated by my love of design. It's simple really. My husband has classic cars, my son has Christmas morning, and I have design.
Tell me a random fun fact about you.
I have an affinity for British...stuff! My favorite bands, tv shows, actors, and cars are British.

Thanks Robin!

Exclusive Discounts on Handmade This Weekend

2010-11-09T20:36:00.000-08:00

Just in case I didn't mention it before, I will be participating in the fabulous Queen Bee Market this weekend, a holiday shopping boutique extravaganza! And as a thank you to all of you who will be shopping local and choosing handmade over mass produced mall items, I will be offering exclusive discounts on items in my shop as well as a plethora of new items not even available in my shop today. That's right, you get first dibs. Perhaps if I weren't so swamped making things, I would photograph them and show you (but that wouldn't be as exciting! :)

The info:

Del Mar Hilton

Fri 4pm-9pm

Saturday 9am-4pm

Get more details and a sneek peak of the vendors here!

Thank you for your support!
Sarah

DIY Bridal Clutch

2010-11-08T19:45:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Chicks created a tutorial for this cute little clutch good for weddings and non-wedding occasions. It looks so easy to sew, I might even give it a try (I will try to resist the urge to use fabric glue :). Found via One Pretty Thing.

DIY Gold Leaf Embellished Rocks!

2010-11-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

Use these simply beautiful gold-leafed river rocks for a wedding decoration or favor or a fun little holiday gift. Aren't they amazing??? Get the easy how-to over here. Found via Design Sponge.

You Just Got Married, You Need a Gravy Boat

2010-11-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a series of hand painted dishes called "just married" which I've shown here in shimmer gold. Don't worry if gold isn't your thing, they are available in many other colors! Check them out in my shop. :)

Gross But Good

2010-10-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

My aunt made this cheese spread for a Halloween Party and I thought it was just great! Gross, but great. What's in it you ask? "Sharp cheddar cheese, port wine cheese, cream cheese, and rolled in poppy seeds. Legs are made from refrigerator dough, brushed with a beaten egg, baked, then painted with black food coloring. Legs-really not edible." Thanks Donna!

Caramelized Pumpkin Seeds

2010-10-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

Now these look like a good use of pumpkin seeds. Get the recipe over at Cooking With My Kid. Found via Foodgawker. mmm...

I Can No Longer Resist

2010-10-25T22:28:00.000-07:00

Photo From Nice Package

I've been doing my best, but today I officially admit that I can no longer resist Baker's Twine. Can I have some now please?

Photo via Folly & Glee

photo via weddingbee

Photo from lockette

Oh The Possibilities!

2010-10-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that I am now offering a whole array of colors for the porcelain items in my shop? Oh the possibilities!

Hello Love

2010-10-19T20:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a little preview of some of the wedding related things I created for my shop last weeked. I must be in love or something :)

I hope you love them as much as I love making them!

Free Halloween Invitations & Cupcake Toppers

2010-10-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

Throwing a Halloween Party? Download these cupcake toppers and customizable invitations designed by Whisker Graphics over at Skip to My Lou.

1 Month Away From the Big Event!

2010-10-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

I hope to see all the Southern Californians out there at the upcoming Queen Bee Market, to be held on November 12th and 13th. Come over to beautiful Del Mar, avoid holiday shopping malls, and browse all the unique handmade gift possibilities!!!

DIY: No Carve Pumpkin Idea

2010-10-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

Tired of all the mess associated with carving Jack-O-Lanterns? Try your painting skills with this idea from Good Housekeeping!

$55 Giveaway!

2010-10-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

CSN Stores is offering a $55 gift certificate to one of my lucky readers! In case you don't already know, CSN has a very large collection of stores with a wide variety of products. Above are is just a sampling of items I chose for their cozy autumn feel including an ottoman coffee table.

Get Cozy with the items shown above from CSN stores :
1. Safavieh Cocktail Ottoman 2. Le Creuset Tea Kettle 3. Jovi Home Scotch Chenille Throw 4. Hush Puppies Slippers

To win, just follow my blog and leave a comment on this post (prize available to US and Canadian residents only). AND PLEASE NOTE, THE $55 IS GOOD AT ANY OF THE CSN STORES, but does not include shipping fees. Winner will be randomly selected and announced next Friday. Good luck!

Wine Tasting Game!

2010-10-07T19:49:00.000-07:00

I wrote up a guest post for The Queen Bee Market about a little wine tasting game I made up. Check it out here and then throw a wine tasting party!

Make Candy Corn Cookies

2010-10-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Baked Bree shows you how to make delicious sounding Candy Corn shaped Sugar Cookies. Cookies immitating Candy immitating Vegetables.

Giveaway at the Queen Bee Market!

2010-10-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

Head on over to the Queen Bee Market for a chance to win this Personalized Ice Cream Bowl Hand Painted by me!

Giveaway!

2010-10-03T09:03:00.001-07:00

1. Tell us a little about you:
I'm Sarah, and for me, creating is a must! I also love to do things outdoors, eat good food, watch shows or movies that make me think or laugh, hang out with good friends and family, and learn new things.

2. How did you get started with your shop?
Working as a design engineer for about 9 years nurtured my scientific side, but not so much my creative and artistic side. After feeling a little burnt out, I had to find creative outlet, nourish my hobbies, and find some balance. Always wanting to learn something new, I took guitar lessons, painting, dancing, and worked on little craft projects on my own. Eventually it evolved into starting my own etsy shop.

3. What is your inspiration for your art?
All over the place! Especially when in nature. I take lots of pictures when I am out walking and hiking.

4. What is your ideal vacation spot?
Although I've been to many wonderful places, there's something magical about discovering all the little details you find when you go somewhere new.

5. What is your favorite item in your shop right now?
My hand Painted "You Rock" Talking Mug. I think it would be a fun message to receive from someone!

6. What is your favorite color combination? (for your product or just in general).
Teal and yellow are two colors that really hit it off!

7. What is your favorite dessert?
Some sort of homemade fruity pie or pastry. Mmm...

8. If you could spend $1000 in one store, where would you spend it?
I could easily spend $1000 buying up handmade goods on etsy. I buy a lot of gifts for people on etsy, but I could definitely find a few more nice things for myself :)

9. What was your proudest moment?
Anytime someone spends their hard earned dollars on something I created to perhaps give as a gift or use in their wedding, it feels pretty darn good.

10. What is your favorite part of the day?
My days are pretty busy so anytime I can unwind a little is nice. A nice cup of tea on a Saturday morning or an evening walk on the beach are a few of my favorites.

Giveaway Item:
A Personalized Hand Painted Ice Cream Dish.

Falling Leaf Cookies

2010-09-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

Aren't these fall cookies from the Decorated Cookie cute? Get the tutorial and many more fun cookie ideas now!