Blue Velvet Chair

Ottoman DIY

2012-02-28T21:32:00.000+01:00

We finally did it! A full year after we built the frame, we actually finished the oversized ottoman for our living room. Spoiler...it's not recycled, nor is it repurposed.

Why did it take a year? Well, that's how long it took me to finally commit to a fabric and find the right legs. When my Swedish man helped build the frame last year, we actually had a fabric to put on it...that was too short to go all the way around - this despite being on the phone with my husband while at the fabric store to get the measurements from him to be sure. Does that ever happen to you? Doesn't he realize that fabric can't be returned if it doesn't fit? And my first intent to recycle legs from a piece of thrift store furniture flew out the window after several months of searching. Do you know how hard it is to find turned wooden legs in the land of clean Swedish design? It's 1 year worth of hard! So I finally found a nice small business in Scotland with crazy good prices and had a box of legs sent over.

The poor thing sat dejected on piles of books in the middle of our living room for 1 year! And let me tell you, when you have two kids under the age of 10 who seem to believe that our living room is their own personal gymnastics facility, those books didn't have a chance. We were constantly lifting up the ottoman to restack those books underneath.

Does it kill me that I wasn't able to get some recycled or repurposed features in it? Sure. But I also know that my design style is a funny blend of second hand, new, and repurposed. And when I look around at the furniture pieces in my living room, this is the only new piece...and we made it! It's not even store bought. We got exactly what we wanted - an oversized ottoman that could serve as a coffee table, extra seating, a foot rest for everyone who visits, and a gymnastic vault for the kids.

I love it! BUT...I don't think it's actually done yet. I'm actually toying with the idea of painting a design on the fabric. The pattern choices are marinating in my brain and we'll see if anything comes of it. I'm thinking darker blue swirls or square-ish shapes 'stamped' on with a DIY screenprint-style stamp on recycled styrofoam a la The Meta Picture. What do you think? Do I dare? I have some extra fabric to try some sample work beforehand, so that reduces the risk a bit.

Interested in making your own ottoman? I'll tell you how we did it later this week.

And if you are like me, you enjoy peeking into other's houses to see their design style. So I thought I would also create a post this week with a little tour of our living room, including some 'before' pics when we moved into the house over 3 years ago. Our remodel process is slower than I'd like, but I'll start posting some mini tours so you can have a peek around.

Until next time...
Mike

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A Day's Worth of Inspiration - Repurposed

2012-02-28T01:34:00.000+01:00

Some of the repurposed DIY finds for today are just too delicious not to share. Scroll down through the pics for a quick inspiration boost as we move on into this week.

repurposed screw driver as utensil handles

(comes with a great tutorial)

Patenteux du Nord

repurposed drum becomes table (that lights up inside!)

Kara Pasley Designs

baby clothes repurposed as snugglies

Alisa Burke

vintage drawer pulls as hooks

BHG via Pinterest

repurposed pencils as dish drain

Patenteux du Nord

recycled jean waistbands repurpurposed as rug

(I'd like to see this oversized!)

Passionfly via Instructables

towel rack - mason jar, fench, and doorknob

Coffee with the Mrs.

spoon repurposed as shoehorn (of course!)

MrBalleng via Instructables

cassette tapes repurposed as chair

Cassettes Delight

beaters repurposed into clock design

Sassy Crafter

recycled sweater purse

Sassy Crafter

Do you have plans for creating this week?

Until next time...

Mike

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DIY Tutorial - Recycled Tie Dress

2012-02-26T23:53:00.001+01:00

Last weekend I finished an experiment that had been on my 'must try' list for quite a while - a recycled tie dress for my Divine Little Miss M. And although it was a serious sewing hack, I'm quite pleased with the results...and so was M.

I promised a DIY tutorial for my recycled tie dress - despite the fact that I am far from a real seamstress. Before you start make sure that you've gathered a fun selection of used ties with similar color hues but different patterns. I chose blue and red as an overall color mood, but you'll see pops of gray and yellow as well. Several of the ties came from thrifting and a couple came from the closet of my friend's husband. To give you an idea of the number of ties you'll need, this dress is for a 7-year old and I used 10 ties - 9 for the skirt and 1 around the waist where the ties and Tshirt are sewn together.

Cut your ties in half so that you are now working with a wider piece (front of tie) and a thinner piece (back of tie). I laid them out with alternating widths (wide, thin, wide, thin...) and mixing so that the matching backs were several ties away from the fronts. The nice thing is that the ends already have beautiful seams, so I left them as is and decided to sew the ties together side-by-side with just a very small amount of overlap (1/4 inch).

I pinned two ties together (both right side facing up with just a bit of overlap) and used a zigzag stitch on the '2' setting on the sewing machine. Then I pinned the next tie and did the same, continuing until I had enough to wrap around Little Miss M's waist. This is part of the hack - I don't use patterns and I do a LOT of eyeballing. Both sides of the thinner tie sections were always on top of the ties beside them, and I started sewing from the pointed end going upward. Because the front side of the ties are wider at the pointed bottom, it gave the natural A-line needed for the skirt to flare out a bit at the bottom.

I could have used a contrasting thread like yellow to give the skirt a more eclectic personality, but I chose to stay with the red and blue color mood, so I used a red thread - which still gave a nice effect against the ties.

Now, if you remember my last sewing experiment with the sweater skirt made from recycled winter scarves, you'll know that I will do almost anything to avoid sewing a waist. I just don't know how to do it. So, to hack my way around it this time, I decided to take one of my old Tshirts that I had in the 'do something with this' pile, and I cut off the side seams straight up to the shoulders (cutting off arms as well). After another eyeball on Miss M to see how much the V-neck needed to be lifted, I sewed a new seam across the shoulders, sewed new side seams, and created a seam around the new arm holes. And because I don't know the proper seams to use with Tshirt material, I always seem to get that slight ruffled effect (at least I tell myself it's a ruffle effect). Does anyone know the right seam and stitch size to get a flat seam on Tshirt material? PLEASE tell me!

Next I just tucked that downsized white Tshirt down inside the tie skirt and sewed a zigzag seam right along the outside. I first thought that I was going to leave it with the seam exposed, but decided to give it a more 'finished' look by taking one more tie and wrapping it around the waistline. Then I simply zigzagged both sides of the tie all the way around. On the front side, I created a little 'free-flow' design with the ends of the tie and just sewed across the tie underneath each fold. I finished the little free-flow design by sewing on two buttons.

That free-flow design was inspired by the great recycled tie creations at Ties & Whimsy in Australia, so make sure to check those out if you plan to do anything for yourself.

And there you have it. This tutorial is about as hacked as the sewing job was, but I hope it gives you enough of a hint and enough inspiration to try your own.

One thing I would change if I were a better seamstress would be the upper part of the dress. The tie skirt is quite heavy compared to the Tshirt material up top and it pulls on it just a bit too much. This dress would be perfect with a white button down upper part - and if I knew how to downsize a man's button down to a kid's button down like this one below from Dana Made It, I think that would have made this recycled tie dress even better (I would only need the upper part of this re-do below).

But, all that aside, Divine Little Miss M was pleased with her new dress experiment - and she gave it a whirl to make sure that all parts were working.

Don't miss the post earlier this week with over 30 inspiring ideas of what to do with recycled ties. There is something a bit luxurious about tie fabric and patterns, and there are some great projects out there to try.

Until next time...

Mike

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I'm also partying at these fun linky parties!

DIY Inspiration - Recycled Ties

2012-02-24T00:23:00.001+01:00

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Last weekend I had ties on my mind with the creation of a recycled tie dress for my Divine Little Miss M. So I thought it would be fun to put together a collection of some fabulous recycled and repurposed tie creations out there - the kinds that will have you running to your nearest thrift store to scoop up loads of ties and get busy creating. Ready?

woven seat from recycled ties

My Purple Crayon

pillow made from recycled ties

bacopa67

recycled tie necklace

Liz Tibo Creations

recycled silk tie shoelaces

Better n Before

recycled tie lavender sachet

Ties 2 Pillows

recycled tie belt sashes

Michelle Claire Textiles

recycled tie wallet

loscann

recycled ties become trim on this funky little purse

Atticus Finch NZ

pillows made from recycled button down shirts and ties

Fabrications-Hackney

recycled tie bracelet

ReUse ReNew ReLove

hat and corsage from recycled ties

OutsaPop Trashion

recycled ties as dress straps (back side)

Painted Oyster

tie patterns transferred to Easter eggs

Mahar Dry Goods

Christmas stocking from recycled ties

Burris_Angela

recycled tie wall art weaving

Rayela Art

recycled tie prom dress

Studio Fashion

recycled ties on purse

Electric Nomad

recycled tie rug

eileenaway

recycled tie headband

Keira Morgan

apron made with recycled ties and vintage fabric

Michelle Claire Textiles

recycled tie purse handles

Laura Skelton

recycled tie makeup bag

groundsel

recycled tie dress bodice

OutsaPop Trashion

recycled tie watch band

Suzanne Shenkman Designs

recycled tie purse

Art 2 the Extreme

recycled tie cat

Tiger Tea

recycled tie pet collar

Suzanne Shenkman Designs

handspun yarn from recycled silk ties

Wild Hare Fiber

quilt made from recycled ties

By Melissa

recycled tie woven pillow

Ties 2 Pillows

obi style belt from recycled ties

Senseless Art

necklace made from recycled tie

Tomate d'epingles

recycled tie pumpkins

Lisnaweary Quilts

Inspired yet? These projects were all discovered on Flickr - and I'm sure there are so many more to be found across the Web. Let me know if you've recycled or repurposed ties by leaving a comment here or on the Blue Velvet Chair Facebook page.

And before signing off, I ran across these two pics below that I thought would also be fun to share.

ties from recycled business cards

Ingrid Goldbloom Bloch

This guy just cracks me up. Repurposed ties back in 1988!

Do you have a specific collection that you'd like me to put together? Let me know and I'll get working on it!

Until next time...

Mike

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Sewing Hack Experiments - Recycled Ties

2012-02-22T01:25:00.001+01:00

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Here's a quick peek at what was happening over at our place this past weekend. It involved another sewing hack experiment - this time with recycled ties. Watch for a mini how-to tutorial later this week.

If 'sewing hack couture' is your thing, there are a few more projects to check out on my project gallery wall that were also created for the Divine Little Miss M. And since I've been sharing these projects and my affinity for sewing hacks, there have been many of you who've joined me to raise our voices for sewing on the edge. It's never perfect. But it's always perfectly us!

Are you ready yet to try a sewing hack?

Until next time...
Mike

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Have You Ever Seen...?

2012-02-20T13:58:00.005+01:00

Have you ever seen bottle caps this beautiful?

No, me neither. Until now.

52-year old Yoav Kotik in Israel creates beautiful and wearable art from the unappreciated bottle cap. He calls his line "Precious Metal" - a name I find particularly intriguing, given the fact that most people view bottle caps as used and discarded trash that has already served its purpose.

Hop over to Kotik's 'about' page - perfectly setting up his work and philosophy.

Until next time...

Mike

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What's That ?! - Repurposed

2012-02-16T22:44:00.000+01:00

This week's "What's That?!" is bursting with color, but exactly what are these art pieces made of?

A closer look and now its becoming...

...crystal clear. Clothespins!

Check out the folks at We Make Carpets (Dutch) temporary contemporary carpets and enjoy their little bursts of creativity.

Until next time...
Mike

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Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T09:52:00.000+01:00

A Day's Worth of DIY Inspiration - Repurposed

2012-02-12T12:20:00.001+01:00

As we close out another week, and open the new, here's another day's worth of recycled and repurposed DIY inspiration to get you going. Be sure to check out several of these sites to see more of their fabulous creations. I'm a huge fan of Brian Carlisle's birdhouses. Originality must be in his DNA. And in the DNA of Madeleine at Madame Boulestiex. She's got some unbelievable repurposed chandeliers that spread happiness everywhere they hang. Here we go!

license plate becomes bird house

Brian Carlisle via JunkMarket Style

repurposed LP mirror

Uncommon Goods

marbles in a box repurposed as instant foot massage

El hada de papel

corks and drawer repurposed as message board

REVIVE the Fourth R

recycled flannel pants - turned - infinity scarf

Instructables

recycled globe - turned - pedestal bowl

Better Homes & Gardens

embroidery hoops repurposed as sphere decor

Hill Country Homebody

repurposed sock becomes whimsical horse

Light Blue Grey

floating suitcase shelf

JunkAngel via JunkMarket Style

vintage cookie cutters, buttons, beads and bits

Madeleine Boulestiex

Anything that you'd try to DIY for yourself? I want to try a birdhouse (already have a vintage Corn Flakes tin to try it with) and a chandelier from bits and bobs (I've got lots of those around).

Until next time...

Mike

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What's That ?! - Recycled

2012-02-10T17:11:00.000+01:00

It's time for another What's That ?! to take us into the weekend. Any guesses for the material used for this brightly colored wall art?

Here's a closer look.

Would you believe me if I told you it was...

...the insides of spray paint cans?

The folks at Canlove even use the bottoms and tops of the paint cans for art.

If you caught the "50 Ways to DIY Your Valentine - Recycled and Repurposed" post last weekend, you'll recognize their work from one of the fabulous hearts I featured.

Make sure to hop over to their site and learn how you can get involved by donating cans, time, money or space. Help support their 'No Can Left Behind' campaign to clean up the environment and create new and beautiful art.

Until next time...

Mike

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Friends With Benefits

2012-02-10T01:22:00.012+01:00

No...not those kinds of friends with benefits! I'm talkin' about friends who know the manager of a big thrift store and arrange to get you in the store and warehouse before opening hours!

Yesterday I took a drive to my friend L's town about an hour away. They have a great thrift store that is only open 2 days each week - and we had backstage passes! We were on a mission to go through their buttons to restock supplies, but of course we got sidetracked in every direction.

And do you want to know what why I don't mind driving an hour to visit this thrift store (and my friend)? Here's a bit of the view along the way between my town and her town. This is what a typical winter day looks like in West Sweden. No Photoshop. Perhaps it's no wonder that I often describe the weather here as 'gray'. Just 'gray'. But the scenery is divine!

this is a dog kennel

entrance at Nääs Castle

Nääs Castle (although called a castle by translation,

this is more like a mansion house)

up close at Nääs Castle

Nääs Castle bridge

the stone barn at Nääs Castle

Until next time...
Mike

Tutorial - Recycled Winter Scarves Reborn as Skirt

2012-02-07T17:12:00.002+01:00

Warning! This is a hack sew job - I'm a seamstress wanna be who doesn't have a clue...but I like to experiment. So don't take this tutorial too seriously if you are obsessed with clean lines and perfect stitches. But, if you are like me and like things to be a little bit wonky sometimes, go ahead and give it a try!

I didn't have a pattern so I cut the winter scarves into equal lengths of 3 or 4 pieces (depending on the length of the scarf). Then I just eyeballed a length with Little Miss M and cut each of the pieces into this kind of a shape.

I don't have a proper serger sewing machine to make this kind of fabulous upcycled sweater coat creation, so I picked a stitch that I thought might work. It gave a quirky external seam with a slight ruffle effect to the edges, and I was plenty pleased.

Once I got 6 panels sewn together, I held it around Little Miss M and eyeballed, decided to add 3 more panels, and finished both the bottom and the top with a zigzag stitch. That's about the only thing I know about sewing - if you use a zigzag stitch, it allows for stretching (Thanks, Marie, for that tip).

This next step is what generally keeps me from starting sewing projects. I have a waistline phobia. I just don't understand how to sew them to look 'good'. So I did what I knew how. I hacked the waistline by cutting off the perfectly good elastic waistline of a too-short pair of M's leggings, and I sewed the sweater skirt to the jersey waistline. Perfect! Or at least perfect for me :-)

I was so happy with the funky little diva skirt. And here's where the story takes another happy twist. Mia looked at those legs that were left from the leggings I chopped up. They were still connected by the seam that ran through the crotch area. Well without saying a word, she whipped an arm into each leg and said "I can wear these like this" - and she had created an instant arm shrug. I can't even tell you how proud I was of her in that moment for seeing something that I had already cast aside as unusable (it was destined for the rag box) and finding new opportunities for reusing and repurposing. It's those moments that I realize that my passion for creating with recycled and repurposed items is actually having an affect on the way my children look at how to use things. I'm leading by example and I don't even have to say a word about recycling and reducing our imprint - I just have to keep creating as I do now. They are evidently getting the message loud and clear. And that makes me so happy.

We added some leftover sweater scraps from the scarves to the arm shrug to pull the look together. Then we got out one of her thrift store purple Ts, and poof! We had a fun and funky little bohemian outfit.

Like I said at the beginning, this tutorial isn't for everyone - but I do hope it inspires you to try something with recycled winter scarves. After all, they will be on sale soon in a thrift store near you!

Until next time...

Mike

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Inspiration for this project came from this photo.

Recycled and Repurposed Winter Scarves

2012-02-07T00:35:00.001+01:00

Checked off my list this past weekend:
Make Divine Little Miss M a funky little skirt from recycled winter scarves.

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This gave her plenty to jump about...

...and plenty to dance about.

Check out the tutorial that shares all my secrets about hacking my way through this sewing experiment to create a funky little one-of-a-kind winter skirt for my one-of-a-kind little chica.

Did you see my other sewing experiments from 2011?
-Vintage silk souvenir scarf dress (this was my favorite last year)
-1 Shirt repurposed to girl's dress and leg warmers
-3 recycled Ts become 1 graphic girl's dress

Real seamstresses beware! My hack sewing methods are not for the faint of heart! See that little pink shrug she's wearing around her arms? Those are the leftover legs from a too-short pair of leggings. More on that with the how-to tutorial.

Until next time...
Michael

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50 Ways to DIY Your Valentine - Recycled and Repurposed

2012-02-04T23:02:00.009+01:00

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It's time for a Valentine's showcase, Blue Velvet Chair style! That means recycled, repurposed, upcycled, and ridiculously simple low-to-no-cost DIY. We've got 50 inspiring ideas that cover nearly every material you can use. And if you aren't ready to DIY your own, there are plenty of artisans in the list below who will sell you one of theirs. Let the show begin!

rock hearts

whatever...

recycled book page heart garland

Bookity

etched lover's heart on reclaimed wood

The Lonely Heart on Etsy

repurposed man's shirt becomes pillow

Apartment Therapy

carved Valentine message on bark

Fun in the Making

'love' in matchsticks

Pei San Ng via Inhabitat

Valentine garland from recycled felted wool (think sweaters)

Big Brown House on Tumblr

rolled magazine pages heart

Lynn's Mix on Etsy

paper mosaic with quotes

John Bender on Etsy

wall heart art made from recycled soda cans

Transcendent Treasure on Etsy

heart art from reclaimed wood and metal

M West Designs on Etsy

fun and funky mixed media Valentine art

Jim Healy via JunkMarket Style

heart necklace from repurposed hex nuts

Letandas

origami hearts from recycled catalogs

P.S.

recycled window filled with mosaic hearts (done by kids!)

Ta-Dah

recycled maps for heart art

Bombus

flower seed bombs made with recycled newspaper

Para Noire

recycled toilet roll becomes super simple heart stamp

Rust & Sunshine

framed heart art made from fused plastic bags

inbaLimor

recycled fabric and hanger heart

Home Eclectic

heart pendant made from recycled circuit board

CloneHardware

heart art from recycled egg cartons

Martin Adlington

recycled cork art

Lovely Morning via Blue Velvet Chair

recycled wool heart ornaments (think sweaters)

Sewn Natural via Feelgood Style

blue mussel shells

Cozy Home Blog

recycled sweaters become funky hand warmers

Artyzan Crafts

recycled iced coffee bottle valentines

Sweet Anne

recycled magazine pages as mosaic art

Michael at Blue Velvet Chair

heart candy dish repurposed as jewelry holder

Daydream Parlour

recycle sweaters or Tshirts and glass jars for

a super cute table or mantle piece (these are made with felt)

Life is Good via DaDeeDum

driftwood hearts

Heart Black Market

this is a print, but the original was a bunch of

recycled books about love

Paul Octavious

heart art made from recycled spray cans

Can Love

recycled sheet music becomes heart art

Secret Pie Shoppe

recycled fabrics and special message in a jar

Shiztastic

recycled denim heart

Ella Waite on Etsy

DIY seed heart for happy birds

Stylizimo

repurpose your candy for a unique ring on Valentine's Day

Blue Moss

recycled map heart art

Artstuff

twigs and glue heart

79 Ideas

recycled vintage coke cooler becomes heart art

Jim Healy via JunkMarket Style

leaf heart garland

The Letter 4

recycled sailing cloth bags made by Kenyan fishermen

Le Souk

toilet roll heart mobile

Grietjekarwietje

recycled cleaning jug vases

Canadian Living

recycled soda can heart magnet

Rainy Roots Studio at Etsy

heart etched on reclaimed wood

The Lonely Heart on Etsy

this one is free! have someone take a 'heart' photo for you.

a Valentine message with things found around the house

Common Ground

Valentine vignette with things around the house

52 Mantels

I made a couple of Valentine projects myself this year if you missed the posts for my 15-minute recycled T-shirt heart and the forest glam twig Valentine.

And if you've got a fabulicious Valentine creation and you want to share it with the world, hop over to this Valentine party with Kate at Cheap Crafty Mama.

Don't forget to share this collection with your friends!

Until next time...
Mike

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Linked up at these fun parties this week!

Anthropologie Knock-Off

2012-02-03T16:12:00.000+01:00

There's just something about eclectic and funky and a little bit off center that really speaks to me. And I'm afraid to ask what that says about me! But it's certainly why I find projects like this one absolutely irresistible.

Abbie over at Five Days 5 Ways made her own Anthropologie knock-off candlestick towers. They remind me of the garden towers I've been seeing around, and the garden towers I've already started for myself. Now I may have to add these candle towers to the list!

Anyone else with me?

Until next time...

Mike

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Map Yourself

2012-01-31T18:22:00.000+01:00

Here's a fun little thing to do when you have an extra minute (literally, that's all it took). Map yourself on this interactive world map for bloggers from Latte Love.

And when you are done, continue your journey around the world with this post of recycled and repurposed globes (in case you missed it earlier this month).

Make sure to let me know when you travel through Sweden and I'll clear my schedule!

Until next time...
Mike

A Day's Worth of Inspiration - Recycled and Repurposed

2012-01-30T13:16:00.000+01:00

Here's a day's worth of recycled and repurposed creations for a quick dose of inspiration to get the week started.

crashed Ferrari coffee table

Molinelli Design

use a tie to upcycle your camera strap

Design Sponge

recycled book becomes a great tablet or e-reader cover

Ladies Home Journal

recycled cardboard becomes cute and quirky cat scratcher

Design Sponge

tulip art from a recycled can

Rainy Roots Studio

recycled LP clock

Pavel Sidorenko

recycled plastic bottle bottoms

Inhabitat

DIY toilet roll characters

Beru Betto

recycled bottles and shutter slats

ReMade Simple

If you find something irresistibly inspiring, share with everyone here below (in comments) or hop over for a quick post on the Blue Velvet Chair Facebook page. Everything is better when shared, don't you think?

Until next time...

Mike

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Quick & Easy DIY for Valentine's Day

2012-01-28T23:32:00.002+01:00

Do you have an extra 15 minutes for a quick & easy DIY for Valentine's Day? At no cost? I did, and came up with this cute little recycled Tshirt heart for a no-sew addition to your Valentine's decor this year. And when the holiday is over, poof!, it just comes right off to be stored with all your DIY goodies until next year.

What you'll need:

An existing pillow

A red recycled Tshirt

A cereal box (or any other recycled cardboard)

Stapler

Scissors

A large flat surface brooch or pin

Blue tack (which is white in this case)

Cut your Tshirt into small squares. Mine were about 3 1/2 inches, and they certainly don't have to be perfectly square. Actually, this project only required the back side and sleeves of my Tshirt, so I've saved the front to make one of these adorable recycled T shopping bags. Next, begin with a single square stapled in the middle of your heart (cut from the cereal box).

Flip over the side of that first square, and repeat again directly beside.

Here's what it looked like when I had the center row completed on both sides of that center square.

Then it dawned on me! Duh! Use the same technique that everyone is using with the coffee filter lamps. Fold over the square, and then fold it again. Then I finished off the heart by stapling these at the base of the fold and just kept moving from the center of the heart outwards to the edges.

When you are done with the staples, it may not look pretty from the back - but it doesn't need to!

Flip it over, stand back, and give a little smile of admiration to your sweet little recycled T heart.

To get that heart on the pillow without a sewing commitment (anyone else with me on my sewing machine phobia?), simply lather blue tack all over your flat brooch, pin it to your pillow, and press on your heart.

Voila! It's quick, it's easy, and it's temporary! No one knows the difference - so find that too-small red Tshirt hanging around your house and create yourself a smile today!

Until next time...

Mike

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Linked up at these fun parties this week!

Creating Success Around the World - European Crafts

2012-01-25T22:08:00.001+01:00

I don't have a featured interview for this week's Creating Success Around the World global blog hop, so instead we're going to hop around Europe with a little sampler of creations from across the continent.

Coming to us from Dekoherz in Germany, a little forest glam Valentine goodness. Scoop up some mini pine cones on your next walk and simply glue them to a heart-shaped background (how about some recycled cardboard or cereal box that you've painted white?).

I think the patina on these reclaimed slate clocks from Pachadesign in England is truly spectacular - a piece of art in and of themselves!

I love the mix of old leather belts on this vintage lamp frame from Mrs. Hardy in Norway. You won't want to miss having a peek at her clean Scandinavian-designed blog.

I'm a fan of the fanciful fun that abounds with the wire creations at Trois fois rien in France.

How lucky was Grietjekarwietje in Holland to have toilet rolls that were already red! And she created a lovely Valentine mobile to boot!

I hope you enjoyed this little sample of creations from across the Europe continent. Stay tuned for next week's global blog hop with a new interview feature.

If you'd like to catch up with past global blog hop interviews for Europe, check out:
Pouch (United Kingdom)
ReThink Design (Sweden)
Sea Green of Appledore (England)
Stylizimo (Norway)
Ina Olavarria (Spain)
Made by iSa (France)
Handmade by Kallaristi (Greece)
Annemarie's Haakblog (the Netherlands)

Now let's hop over to see who's been discovered in North America, Australia, or Asia.

Are you also in Europe and would like to be considered for an interview feature? Leave me a comment at the end of the post, or send an e-mail with your website/blog to: bluevelvetchair at bredband dot net.

**Don't forget to add your own blog or website to the link party below to connect with new creative soulmates from across the world.

Until next time...
Mike

Forest Glam DIY - Valentine's Day

2012-01-24T23:58:00.005+01:00

I admit it. I'm a fan of forest glam (remember my kitchen light and my advent calendar?). Because it's organic. Because it brings the outdoors inside. And because it's free.

So I decided to make a little forest glam DIY for Valentine's Day. I don't know if it is luck, or if these bushes exist everywhere around the world, but here in Sweden we have some fabulous bushes with red branches. And what more appropriate time than Valentine's Day to use them for an earthy red heart. So I headed down to our local playground where there is an abundance of these leaf-less bushes huddling in the newly-fallen snow (unbelievably our first real snow of the year). I have no idea what kind they are, so if your horticulture knowledge surpasses mine I'll let you share with everyone in the comments below.

Want to make your own? It would be just as fun in natural brown branches - just follow these how-to steps. Begin by taking three of the longest branches and braiding them. It's a bit tricky but I held the base of the three branches with my left hand, and used the fingers on my right to push each branch around the other for the braid.

Next I took both ends of the braided branches and brought them both together at a single point to form half of the heart shape. I tied a piece of twine to temporarily hold the branches together while I worked on getting a good form in place. Do the same on the other side, and you will end up with the general shape of a heart. I repeated this process and even used a thin red branch as a 'tie' to hold the next group together to the first group.

Once you've done the braided twigs twice, you'll have a good heart outline that allows you to start weaving the rest of the twigs throughout the others. I kept the tie at the base relatively loose so that I could slide more twigs down through the bottom point. Keep going, with heart shape within heart shapes, twisting the branches and twigs in and out of each other.

Once I had a good amount of branches intertwined, I flipped over the heart. You'll see a concave shape to the heart which can then be 'filled' from the backside.

To start filling in more spaces, I took twigs with several offshoots and simply brought the two ends together (same as with the original braided twigs) and tucked them into the concaves from the back side.

Once I had more twigs filled in from the back side, I made a simple wire hoop on the back to hang the heart.

I'm so happy with how she turned out. I've already decided she's either going out on the front of the house after V-Day, or on the backside pool area so that I can enjoy her all year long.

But for now she'll stay inside with us for the holiday. I'm just lovin' the heart-inside-heart-inside-heart effect of the simple twig bends.

Going to try your own? Have some ribbon or twine on hand to hold the base of the twigs as you build your heart. When you have your final twigs in place, re-wrap a new ribbon tightly to hold the base of the heart together (which is the main support for the entire heart shape). After I tied the final twine into place tightly, I was able to easily snip off the original holding twine. And be prepared for twigs to snap out of place every now and then. Just continue to intertwine and twist them back into place. That's the fun part!

Only thing left? Get out and find yourself some twigs for a little forest glam DIY this Valentine's Day.

Until next time...

Mike

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Linked up at these fun parties this week!

What's That ?!

2012-01-22T01:02:00.000+01:00

What's that ?! I asked.

It's a DIY ottoman or extra seat. But what's it made from? Any guesses?

Here's another cute little version of the ottoman from ehciladabina.com.

Is it taking shape for you yet?

It will when you see this painted version.

That's right...tires!

Find out how to make your own at elciladabina.com or Bemsimples.

Until next time...

Mike

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Blog Hugs

2012-01-19T17:57:00.000+01:00

Until next time...
Michael

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Buying Handmade Feels Good

2012-01-18T19:11:00.002+01:00

In this case, buying handmade feels good in more than one way.

Linda at ReThink Design (right here in Sweden) was featured in a Blue Velvet Chair interview a couple of weeks ago. I like to dive into an interviewee's sites to find pictures that speak to me to include with the interview. Evidently this recycled T-shirt scarf spoke very loudly...because the next day I went back online and ordered it! And it feels so good! Good because it is ridiculously soft. And good because it was handmade. Win...and win!

Until next time...
Mike

Creating Success Around the World - Nifty Thrifty Things

2012-01-17T23:11:00.000+01:00

It's Tuesday! Time to get to know a bit more about one of the many talented bloggers and creatives on the European continent as part of the Creating Success Around the World global blog hop.

This week's European creative showcase:
Nifty Thrifty Things

Who: Vanessa at Nifty Thrifty Things
Where: Germany

BVC: When did your passion for crafting and creating begin?

Vanessa: My passion for crafting and creating has been a part of me as long as I can think. I have always enjoyed giving handmade gifts and creating things with my hands. One of my earliest memories of being crafty is when I was about 4 or 5 years old and took my little pet bunny "Muckel" for walks (on a cat leash) around our neighborhood. We had a paper craft and a pottery store near by which I would "hit up" almost every afternoon after kindergarten to go to "work". I would spend hours folding up papers into mobiles and forming clay into little figurines.

BVC: What's your 'day job'?

Vanessa: In my other life I'm a graphic designer. I just finished up my degree by writing my Bachelor's Thesis in the field of Media Technology this past year and have been working as a freelancer and doing different side jobs.

BVC: Have you ever sold any of your creations on sites like Etsy or DaWanda?

Vanessa: No, I haven't. But who knows? I might try my luck in the future and open up an account. :)

BVC: Would you say that the German market is supportive for the handmade and crafting movement?

Vanessa: There are many, many creative and talented women in Germany with beautiful blogs and crafts. There are more and more craft supply shops opening up, but unfortunately they're not equipped as well as some of the US stores, like Hobby Lobby and Michaels.

Vanessa's mom whipped up this unique Christmas tree

with things around her home. Now we can see a bit of

where Vanessa gets her creativity.

BVC: What is your 'dream' project?

Vanessa: My "dream project" is doing a home makeover. The hubby and I would LOVE to buy a house in the future, settle down and start making it into a home.

BVC: Will you share 3 other German DIY or crafting blogs that you think our readers should see?

Vanessa:

Yvonne @ Fräulein Klein

Melanie @ Dekoherz

Lydia @ Pudel-Design

BVC: Fill in the blank. If I were in Paris, I would...

Vanessa: ...buy a fresh croissant and a café au lait to-go and spend the day at the closest flea market.

Vanessa and I have something in common. We have both been love immigrants. I'm still in Sweden with my Swedish hubby, and she recently lived in the States with her Texas hubby. And if you can't tell from the photos above, as well as being incredibly creative with crafts, Vanessa makes unbelievable "pop-off-the-screen-and-right-into-my-mouth" culinary creations at home. And she definitely needs to consider adding food photographer to her freelance portfolio!

Thank you so much, Vanessa, for sharing a bit of yourself with us today. Hop over to Nifty Thrifty Things and have a wander around. But make sure to eat first or you'll be starving by the time you leave her place. You can also catch Vanessa on Facebook.

If you'd like to catch up with past global blog hop interviews for Europe, check out:
Pouch (United Kingdom)
ReThink Design (Sweden)
Sea Green of Appledore (England)
Stylizimo (Norway)
Ina Olavarria (Spain)
Made by iSa (France)
Handmade by Kallaristi (Greece)
Annemarie's Haakblog (the Netherlands)

Now let's hop over to see who's been discovered in North America, Australia, or Asia.

What's That ?!

2012-01-17T01:22:00.001+01:00

What's that? Well, whatever it is, it's oversized and I like it!

Let's take a closer look. Hmmm...it's becoming clearer to me.

Knives! Lots of them. Stuck directly in the wall.

The material might be deadly, but the message is divine.

Iranian artist Farhad Moshiri's latest installation titled 'Life is Beautiful', was created using hundreds of knives stabbed directly into a gallery wall.

I'm not sure if I'd try it at home...but I can admire it from afar!

Until next time...
Mike

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Blogger - Good Deeds Don't Go Unnoticed

2012-01-13T13:13:00.002+01:00

Recycled VHS Tapes

2012-01-11T20:59:00.000+01:00

Today I got a question from June on Facebook asking if I had seen any cool crafts using recycled VHS tapes. I just saw a pretty cool book shelf recently on Recyclart that was made completely from old VHS tapes. June's question got me thinking of whether you really could do anything with VHS tapes. Guess what. You can! People...you never cease to amaze me! Let's have a look at what brilliant minds are doing out there with old abandoned VHS tapes. What surprised me the most? How many artists I ran across that are using this material in their works of art.

recycled VHS tape - turned - party dress

Scianca

recycled VHS tape - turned - purse

(I like the funky little pop of orange!)

My Recycled Bags

recycled VHS tape - turned - contemporary artAdrian Kershaw

recycled VHS tape and discs - turned - Mona Lisa

Nick Gentry

adapt this for VHS tape as wall art

IRI5

yes, it's all recycled VHS tape! Even the canopy!

Evelyn Roth

recycled VHS tape - turned - bow

DVD Your Memories

recycled VHS tape - turned - bracelet

Martina Eriksson

recycled VHS tape - turned - purse

My Recycled Bag

recycled VHS tape - turned - clutch purse

Noonday Collection

recycled VHS casette shelves

Recyclart

wreath wrapped with recycled VHS tape

Textiles 4 You

Well, I'm shocked at what people have found to do with old VHS casettes. June, I hope you find some inspiration in here to do something with yours. Come back and share with us if you do!

Until next time...

Mike

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Creating Success Around the World - Pouch (UK)

2012-01-10T22:01:00.003+01:00

It's time to take a Tuesday moment and learn a little something about the creative souls located in Europe. Yes, it's time for Creating Success Around the World.

This week's European creative showcase:Pouch

Who: Nicola at Pouch
Where: Bristol, England

BVC: When did your passion for creative recycling/crafting begin?
Nicola: I started buying vintage fabric back in 2003/2004 from thrift stores and jumble sales. The more I bought, the more I fell in love with the bright designs and colours from the 1960s and 1970s. Before I knew it I had amassed quite a collection. I started to think that I could combine the bright vintage fabric with repurposed denim and corduroy. I had also gathered quite a few pairs of jeans and trousers whilst rooting around at jumble sales and I noticed that people often threw trousers out once the hems were worn. I also noticed that there was plenty of viable fabric left despite the worn hems. Denim is hardwearing and takes lots of natural resources to make, so it seemed logical not to waste this valuable fabric. I have always been quite thrifty and didn’t like to see fabric going to waste so I decided to reuse it and combine it with my vintage fabric to make unique, one-off bags. I started to make a few totes and sold them at craft fairs. It wasn’t until I discovered Etsy in 2007 that Pouch really took off as a handmade business. Since 2007 I have expanded my range to include housewares, belts and my lavender owls and rabbits, which have turned out to be my biggest selling item.

lavender sachets

BVC: Is it your 'day job'? Or do you also have another job to pay the bills?
Nicola: I used to work as a freelance book and journal typesetter. I had always had Pouch on the backburner when I was typesetting, but since having my daughter in 2009, I haven’t been able to return to fulltime typesetting due to the high cost of childcare. I needed to work in a more flexible way so I decided to put more focus on Pouch. I work two afternoons a week whilst my daughter is in nursery and boy do I have to manage my time well! Now I have so few hours to myself, it really helps to focus my mind. I have made more stock and written more blogs posts than I ever did when all my time was my own pre-2009. I love what I do and 2011 was my most successful year yet, I sold over double the amount in the run up to Christmas 2011 than I did in the same period in 2010 – which isn’t bad in the current economic climate!

BVC: Where do you sell online? Do you have any good tips for others who are thinking about selling their creations?
Nicola:
http://www.pouchbags.co.uk
http://www.etsy.com/shop/pouch
http://www.pouchbags.blogspot.com
Make something you love, always be original and don’t expect to be an overnight success or get rich quick! I’m learning all the time and still don’t feel Pouch has reached it’s full potential, I’m always trying to evolve and improve my products and photography – it’s hard work!

BVC: Do you feel that the UK has a strong arts and crafts network for handmade? Recycled?
Nicola: Definitely. I have met so many like-minded people via Etsy, there is a very vibrant handmade community out there. The main job is to try and encourage people to support us and step away from mass produced creations. I have been involved with an organisation called UK Handmade for quite some time now. As is says on their website:
“UK Handmade is a design led online magazine committed to showcasing and promoting the best creative talent the UK has to offer. The term 'handmade' is now an indicator of quality, care and professionalism that is second to none and something we at UK Handmade wish to encourage and celebrate.”
http://ukhandmade.co.uk

BVC: What is your 'dream' project?
Nicola: I have lots of ideas, but unfortunately very little time to execute them now that I am a busy mum! I have an applique project in my head that I have been mulling over for about two years now – I have made a pact to make 2012 the year I start putting together some samples and prototypes. I would love to get it off the ground as I hate having half-finished ideas and projects on the go or in my head.
I am also hoping to take part in a collaborative project to create an installation for a Children’s Hospice in the UK. The project is being coordinated by Lisa Stevens who runs Seaurchin, a ceramics store on Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop/seaurchin). She is still looking for people to take part, so you can find out more about the collaborative project here: http://estellaswall.blogspot.com

lavender sachets

BVC: Can you share 3 other DIY or crafting blogs from the UK that you think our readers should see?
Nicola:

UK Handmade

Craft Blog UK

Team EcoEtsy

BVC: Fill in the blank: If I were in Paris, I would...
Nicola: ... love to visit the fabric district! I know that doesn’t sound very romantic, but as a confirmed fabric addict I really regret not having the time to go and have a long mooch around the fabric shops. When we were visiting Sacre-Coeur, I could see from the steps of the church these huge fabric shops in the distance. We had so many things we wanted to see in our three day stay, I knew my husband would be reluctant to trawl around a fabric store! So maybe next time I’m there...

Nicola - I truly hope that you get those days to mooch around the fabric shops of Paris! If you're like me, a day like that is so meditative and inspirational. My dream day of mooching would be at one of the great Parisien markets. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

For all the BVC folks, make sure to hop over to the Pouch blog or follow along with Nicola's progress on Facebook as she continues to grow her Pouch business.

If you'd like to catch up with past global blog hop interviews for Europe, check out:
ReThink Design (Sweden)
Sea Green of Appledore (England)
Stylizimo (Norway)
Ina Olavarria (Spain)
Made by iSa (France)
Handmade by Kallaristi (Greece)
Annemarie's Haakblog (the Netherlands)

Now let's hop over to see who's been discovered in North America, Australia, or Asia.

Repurposed Ties & Whimsy

2012-01-10T16:28:00.001+01:00

Alisa at Ties & Whimsy in Brisbane, Australia is making the most beautiful repurposed tie and lace accessories. I'm enamored with the ties, so they will get the airtime in this blog post. But make sure to hop over to Alisa's to see her full collection, or to buy a tie for yourself on Etsy.

The vibrant colors and whimsy of these creations speak for themselves, don't they?

Until next time...

Mike

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Globe-al Recycling: 20 Projects to DIY

2012-01-09T01:16:00.007+01:00

I was hurrying through a thrift store one Saturday morning, the kind that only opens on a Saturday so it's the closest thing that Sweden has to a Walmart Black Friday stampede. I remember spotting an old vintage globe. But I didn't even look at the price. After all, what would I do with it?

And then literally within the week I saw this recycled globe art from Beth at Patina White...and I've been kicking myself ever since! So, to honor those of you who have an extra globe sitting around, I've gathered a little bit of inspiration for your DIY habit...beginning with Beth's globe art.

recycled globe art

Patina White

decoupaged globe

imagineNations

mini globe repurposed as ring bearer's 'pillow'

My Haley Girl at Etsy

painted globe

(click through to the blog if you are curious

about what the rest of the globe says)

Aesthetic Outburst

recycled split globe wall clock

Woman's Day

desk globes repurposed as chandelier

Benoit Vieubled via Recylart

mirrored globe

We Groovy People

modge podge pics from a favorite children's book

The Wreath Witch on Etsy

vintage globe on table lamp

twenty times i on Etsy

pinned globe

The Berry

DIY chalkboard globe

Beach Bungalow 8

chalkboard globe on candlestick

The Boomin Granny on Etsy

vintage globe table lamp

Recycling Tomorrow on Etsy

recycled globe pendant lights

The Boomin Granny on Etsy

recycled globe wall lamp

great globe upcycle inspiration

My Blessings Unlimited

DIY a cute little globe bookend

Vandylee Vintage

globes on the ceiling!

Griyakulo

more globes on the ceiling

The Homeschool Corner

recycled globe - turned - pedestal bowl

Better Homes & Gardens

vintage map piggy bank

Lil and Jill Designs

No, that last one wasn't an actual globe...but it was just too cute not to share. Same thing with this one below.

recycled map origami globe

Book BW

And where can I find one of these?

globe factory

Black Maps

I hope this has inspired you to do a little globe-al recycling at your place. My favorite is still Beth's piece at the very beginning. What's yours?

Until next time...

Mike

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Party!

25+ Clever Household Tips

2012-01-06T23:52:00.001+01:00

I'm definitely out of the loop. As soon as the Year changed over, everyone started blogging about organization. How to be organized. How to organize your pantries. The best organized office. How to organize your blog posts. Truth is, my husband and I argued today because our house is so unorganized. Did that kick us into an organization frenzy? No.

So, I'm sorry that I don't have any 'best of breed' organization blog posts for you. BUT, I have been collecting a file this past year that I call 'clever household tips' whenever I saw something that made me go 'aha'. So I think today is the day to dust off that file and share it with you in the hopes of creating a few aha's for you, too.

Remember my hanger trick to keep wide-shouldered clothes from slipping off?

cupcake liner debuts as ice cream drip catcher

Real Simple

crown molding repurposed as shoe storage

Chelsea McGee on Pinterest

this recycled bottle-to-phone holder ticks boxes in clever AND cute!

Make It and Love It

what a great glue chart

Design Sponge

recycled cardboard box becomes a spray paint tent

Family Handyman

a plastic wardrobe repurposed as a deluxe spray paint tent

Crafty Nest

rub chalk onto greasy stains and the chalk powder will absorb the grease,

making the stain easily removable by the laundry soap in the wash.

Lifehacker

I've seen the egg carton ornament storage idea, but I also like the cups

Martha Stewart

use a rubberband to removed stripped screw (why didn't I ever think of that?)

via Haley Snider on Pinterest

this lost sock holder would be so simple with a piece of reclaimed wood

via Pinterest

fun storage idea, although I would mostly likely try it with plastic cups glued together

Curbly

heat the masking tape to avoid tearing and pulling (lots more tips on this site)

Family Handyman

getting more cabinet space with a tension rod to hang spray bottles

Jen Morris on Photobucket

more space stretching ideas with this magazine holder as kitchen wrap storage

Chica and Jo

plastic bread tab gives makes grabbing tape easier

via Pinterest

custom doorstop from a repurposed finial

Landee see, Landee do

efficient use of ceiling space for storage

Family Handyman

broken plastic hanger? use the clip for your chips

Craftster

glue magnet on back of teacup saucer for instant pin cushion

Narrating Life

give your paint projects a lift with pin cushions while you paint

Chica and Jo

how to paint perfect letters

That's My Letter

DIY projector for tracing wall murals

Instructables

check out this how-to for hanging your pics

The Scrap Shoppe

cereal dispenser moonlights as trash box in car

Better Homes and Gardens

Which one do you think you'll try for sure? I want to try that magnetic saucer pin cushion.

If you liked these clever little tips, I keep a file with lots more over at Pinterest if you want to hop over.

Here's a couple of links that will lead you to clever household tips utopia:

Martha Stewart, of course.

and

Family Handyman has enough to make you stay a while and browse

Until next time...
Mike

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What's That ?! - Repurposed

2012-01-04T22:26:00.000+01:00

Okay. This has never happened before. I'm posting a "What's That ?!" series two days in a row. But after Amy over at The Salvage Collection pointed me to this artist for her fabulous button art, I saw these other works of hers and just had to share with you. Uh, excuse me one moment. Note to self...must practice patience in this new year.

So, can you guess what these whimsically twisted horses are made of?

No? Want another look? And don't miss the fabulous recycled jeans flag on the wall!

They are made from...drumroll please...

...COCONUT HUSKS!

What I absolutely adore about Ann Carrington's creations is that she works with a variety of materials. Recycled and repurposed materials. My favorites are the plush fur rug, the tree made from tires and innertubes, and of course the button stamp art.

Do you also keep a mental list of people you'd like to have in the same room one day? Mine just keeps on growing.

Until next time...

Mike

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Creating Success Around the World - ReThink Design

2012-01-03T22:21:00.002+01:00

Like I mentioned on Facebook today, even though it's the new year - some things should remain the same. Like the showcase of Creatives in the "Creating Success Around the World" global blog hop.

This week's European creative showcase:ReThink Design

Who: Linda at ReThink Design
Where: Göteborg, Sweden (which also happens to be the hometown of Blue Velvet Chair)

BVC: When did your passion for creative recycling begin?
Linda: When I was little I wanted something that did not look like everyone else's clothes, I think that was what got me to start sewing as a hobby. My mum taught me. I´ve had an interest for the enviroment as long as I can remember. My company was started because I wanted to show that we need to think more sustainably about our consumption. And also to combine my interests: sewing, design, enviroment… I have two very strong beliefs, or maybe life motto is the correct term:

Nobody can do everything but everyone can do something.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything, they just make the most of what comes along their way!

recycled T-shirts

BVC: Is ReThink Design your 'day job'?
Linda: Yes, right now its my daily job. But I'm currently looking for a job to combine with the company. I think it’s a bit too lonely sometimes.

recycled thrift fabric

BVC: I see that you sell products online with Signerat.se (the Swedish version of Etsy). Do you also sell items on other online markets or in retail stores? Have you been able to make an income through creating? And what tips might you have for others who want to sell their recycled products and creations?
Linda: The main place I sell my things on is on my own webpage: www.rethinkdesign.se. I also sell on www.signerat.se and recently started a shop on etsy.com. Etsy though seems to take a lot ot time and effort. I sell in a few retail stores in Sweden, and my aim is to expand this side of the business. Yes, today it's my main income, but I also have courses in textile and making them into new things. I have lectures in creating sustainable companies. So my business is more than making products.

My tip is to decide early if you want to do it as a hobby or if you want to make a living out if it. If you want to make a living out if it, you need to be prepared to put in a lot of effort and a lot of time. But for me, its been worth it!

repurposed man's shirt

BVC: Do you feel that Sweden has a strong arts and crafts network for handmade? Recycled?
Linda: To be honest I think that Sweden sometimes is a bit bad in appreciating arts and crafts. I feel that the tradition is stronger abroad. I also think that a lot of customers don’t understand the time and effort behind the product and have comments about the price compared with the clothing companies, etc. But I also think that Sweden is upcoming and usually early adapters for new things and new thinking. So recycled and environmentally friendly things are definitely upcoming!

hand warmers from recycled sweaters

BVC: What is your 'dream' project?
Linda: Ohh, that’s a difficult question. But I have a lot of ideas working in materials other than textile fabric.

winter scarf repurposed as necklace

BVC: Can you share 3 other Swedish blogs that you think our readers should see?
Linda: I'm not a very active blog reader. But here are some that I follow for inspiration:

Tant Marit

tantmarit
om jag får be

Elsa Billgren
for the lovely clothes and outfits

Design for Life
One of my partners

BVC: Fill in the blank: If I were in Paris...
Linda: ...it would be in spring or summer, I would go and have a picnic at the Seine with the love of my life ( who I haven’t happened to meet yet…) and then off to a museum and a great flea market. Later that evening, we´ll watch a romantic French movie!

Linda - we live so near each other that we really must meet! We share the same beliefs in recycling and reusing for redesign, and I think we would have lots to talk about. Thank you so much for sharing your time, thoughts, and talent with all of us here at Blue Velvet Chair.

If you'd like to catch up with past global blog hop interviews for Europe, check out:
Sea Green of Appledore (England)
Stylizimo (Norway)
Ina Olavarria (Spain)
Made by iSa (France)
Handmade by Kallaristi (Greece)
Annemarie's Haakblog (the Netherlands)

Now let's hop over to see who's been discovered in North America, Australia, or Asia.

What's That ?!

2012-01-03T20:18:00.001+01:00

It's 2012 and time for a new year of "What's That?!".

What is "What's That?!" you ask? It's a series of posts that showcase unbelievable creations that make you take a second look and ask yourself, "What's That?!"

Here we go. Can you guess what these art pieces are made from?

How about if we take a closer look.

That's right...buttons! Nevermind the obvious question of where Augusto Esquivel gets all of his buttons. Just look at the thousands of strings it must take for some of his art pieces.

Now that you've seen the work up close, imagine what it took to create these pieces.

And how in the world does he transport them?

I'm just at a loss of words when I see creations like this. So I'll let Augusto's words speak for themselves.

"I realize how insignificant and small a simple sewing button can be as it lays in my grandmother’s sewing box, but at the same time how unique and precious it can become as part of a work of art. Like an atom in a molecule, each button serves and shapes the whole. I hold the button to my ear and it whispers to me, “I want to be…..”

Until next time...

Mike

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Stage and Lighting by Mother Nature

2012-01-02T00:39:00.001+01:00

Everyone keeps saying "Get away from the computer and find inspiration outdoors." So yesterday I decided to do just that. Our last day of 2011 was filled with inspiration from Mother Nature as we walked around the local 700-year old fortress, across the river and up the hill from our house. Here's a bit of what we saw.

If you'd like to see a few more pics from the walk and a whole lot of 'set design' from Mother Nature, jump over to The Accidental Swede for a peek at our typical family outing in Sweden.

How do you get your inspiration? Away from the computer...or on it?

Until next time...

Mike

Happy New Year! 2011 Year in Review

2012-01-01T00:27:00.000+01:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

What a whirlwind year it's been! Blue Velvet Chair is not even one year old yet, but oh what imaginative and creative souls I've been able to connect with across the globe. You inspire me, and I am so very thankful.

2011 YEAR IN REVIEW

My favorite projects (clockwise above in pic):

vintage souvenir scarf dress, chandelier upcycle, 1-minute poinsettia, black & white Christmas, mosaic toilet tank planter, hubcap flowers, frame with rolled magazine pages, (the little angel isn't posted on the blog yet), T-shirt and doilies recycled to dress, paint chip baby art, button flower bouquet, button mosaic mirror, button ornaments

Your TOP 5 favorite posts (according to Google stats):

Repurposed DIY for Everyone

Mason Jar Revival

80+ Best DIY Paint Chip Projects

22 Inspiring DIY Cork Projects

DIY Design with Wooden Pallets and Crates

Did your BVC favorite make the list? Would you like to see more inspiring recycled and repurposed collection posts in 2012 (like those in the Top 5 list)? Or something else?

And what was YOUR favorite project this year? Something you made? Or remodeled around the house? Share a link to your favorite (from your blog) and we'll all hop over to have a look.

Thank you all for a wonderful time this year, and I can't wait to see what you create in 2012!

Until next time...
Mike

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Creating Success Around the Globe - Sea Green of Appledore

2011-12-27T22:00:00.004+01:00

Well...I had the most relaxing Christmas holiday with my family. Oh, there was the one little mishap with the day-after realization that my 10-year old son ate every single speck of chocolate and candy that was in his Christmas stocking and various gifts (at least a 2-3 month supply). We sat down last night for a 'sugarholics anonymous' discussion. And now he's on detox. Which means I have to be on detox to set the example. Really? Did I sign this contract when I became a mother?

How about your holidays? Any inspiring or funny anecdotes?

Anyway, relaxing for the holidays also meant that I was away from 1) the computer, and 2) blogging. So while it's been a bit quiet around here this past week, it's time to hop back on the train and head straight towards the new year! And it's time for our weekly peek at a fellow creative in the European pitstop of the Creating Success Around the Globe blog hop.

This week's European creative showcase:Sea Green of Appledore

Who: Josie at Sea Green of Appledore
Where: Appledore, England (North Devin Coast)

BVC: When did your passion for creating and crafting begin?
Josie: I was born with the passion for making things, one of six children living in the countryside we made all our presents and cards using anything we could find. We picked wild flowers and made posies for our mother at Easter and Mother's Day, and Christmas wreaths with holly and ivy, which I still do today. I carried on crafting with my own children - we always had an ongoing project on one end of the table and had to eat our meals at the other end.

BVC: Do you have a 'day job'?

Josie: My three daughters have all left home now, so last February I took a risk and mortgaged my house to buy my little shop and craft workshop in Appledore "SEA GREEN of APPLEDORE" where I make nearly everything myself from recycled materials. It's my only income and I've managed to pay all my bills since then and even afford a bargain inspirational trip to Barcelona. Only two months to go and I will have proved that you can make a living out of craft. I have worked with children doing crafts, and I've also used craft as a therapy for elderly people, adults with learning disabilities and in hospices. I've had stalls in craft fairs and markets selling my creations.

The whole community is behind me on this project so I find some strange things left on my doorstep to recycle. I enjoy the challenge to use my inventive-ness. I made some great wooden coat hooks out of the legs of a broken table the other day and someone made a clock with a T-shirt at my workshop yesterday.

BVC: Have you ever sold any of your decor creations on sites like Etsy or Epla?
Josie: I don't sell online because I can't face all the administration involved with online orders.

BVC: Do you feel that England has a strong and supportive network for recycled arts and crafts?
Josie: I don't think England has a very strong craft/recycle network, but I do feel that it is now growing and expanding fast. The people who come to my workshops are very keen, and in these hard times are seeing the sense in reusing things.

BVC: What is your 'dream' project?
Josie: I'm now living my dream project - I don't want it to expand into something else. I think a lot of people get caught up in this trap and then realize that they didn't recognize the dream when they had it.

BVC: Fill in the blank: If I was in Paris, I would...
Josie: ...do what I can't resist on any of my foreign adventures, head for the back streets. That's where you find treasures. Away from the tourists I find pokey little antique and retro shops, small galleries and workshops, and unusual eating places. And of course I meet real people.

How great to meet someone that is living their creative dream - and showing that the bills can be paid at the same time! Thank you, Josie, for sharing your thoughts - and for letting us know that we aren't the only ones out there with projects on one end of the table, and dinner on the other.

If you'd like to catch up with past global blog hop interviews for Europe, check out:
Stylizimo (Norway)
Ina Olavarria (Spain)
Made by iSa (France)
Handmade by Kallaristi (Greece)
Annemarie's Haakblog (the Netherlands)

Now let's hop over to see who's been discovered in North America, Australia, or Asia.

29 Ways to Stay Creative

2011-12-27T14:07:00.000+01:00

29 ways to stay creative...I couldn't have said it better myself.

29 WAYS TO STAY CREATIVE from TO-FU on Vimeo.

Until next time...
Mike

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Easy & Fun Last-Minute Decorating for Christmas

2011-12-21T23:16:00.000+01:00

Still decorating.

Yesterday when I posted a quick project with leftover christmas balls, I promised to show this ridiculously quick and easy decoration that was in the background. Made them in about 30 minutes.

What you need: a couple of old thrifted frames from your pile 'o frames, your trusty dusty staple gun, some fabric that makes your heart sing, a printer and some kind of super easy photo software, buttons, and some blue tack (which is actually white, in this case).

I had this sample of IKEA fabric laying around for about a year now...thought I was going to use it for our oversized ottoman we are making...but it was too bold for that space. Then I thought it might go for a valance curtain on a window. Nope. Not that either. But I LOVE accents of black and white, so out it came to find its place as the backdrop of these simple holiday decorations.

What's next? Staple. You can cut the material to 'about' the size, and just staple it to the back of the frame. Pull and stretch as you do.

This was the first round that went up last minute (literally) before this year's annual ornament exchange with girlfriends - handmade of course. I used one of the free sage green backgrounds that I know and trust from Aimee at Sprik Space. "Very Merry". That's my message this year.

They looked a bit lonely on that wall behind our table. Of course, with bits and parts of the house still not remodeled, the final look doesn't come together quite yet. You can see in the pic below what's done and what's still in progress.

Now, I liked the pale sage green, but it wasn't making me look twice. So I changed to a muted red background, like you saw in the photo of my last-minute chandelier holiday dress yesterday.

You can also see that my hubby put up a couple of IKEA picture rails for me (so that time isn't included in the 30 minutes it took me to do these quick frames). Next grab some buttons and blue tack. I originally pulled out some colored wire from my craft stash, but it didn't find a home here.

No, I didn't even bother to glue the buttons because I'll just take them apart and use them somewhere else another time. This isn't a permanent installment, so the solutions don't need to be permanent.

I grabbed the last of my extra christmas balls - the ones that were too heavy to put on the chandelier dress - and gave them a home on the picture ledge beside the frames.

A couple of times passing by made me realize I wasn't digging the muted red either. So one last trip to the computer scored me this fun turquoise blue printout. I simply chose a solid colored background in Photoshop, and found 2 different fonts that I liked for the 'very' and 'merry'. They are held to the material background with...you guessed it...blue tack. And on went the buttons with blue tack. Easy, quick, and no mess.

I put my vintage bottles with the 1-minute DIY poinsettias on the table. But they looked a bit lonely.

So I grabbed a bit of greenery from the bottom of our christmas tree and now they sit nice and nestled on the table. They might even get the surprise of some simple white flowers to hold.

When I pull back to get a photo of the entire area, it isn't quite the 'complete' picture that I want because of the things that still need remodeled or renovated. But, it's an improvement over what I started with and gives me a nice surprise punch of color for the holiday.

I've got one more DIY decoration that I'm determined to get up before Christmas day - so perhaps I'll have one more of these last-minute decoration posts. And because we don't really have to take down the Christmas tree until 20 days after Christmas in Sweden (a tradition called julgransplundring where friends and family dance and sing around the tree before taking it down), I'll have plenty of time to enjoy my last-minute holiday decorations. I'm not sure how many Swedes still adhere to that old tradition...but you can be sure we'll be holding out the full 20 days at my house this year.

Until next time...

Mike

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Creating Success Around the Globe - Sea Green of Appledore

2011-12-20T23:44:00.000+01:00

We have a temporary delay in Europe for the global blog hop with Creating Success Around the Globe - but you'll want to check back tomorrow when we feature Josie at Sea Green of Appledore (England).

When Josie gets her hands on found and discarded items...she creates something fabulous. I'm really looking forward to introducing her to the global blog hop travelers.

Watch this space!

Until next time...
Mike

Reflections on Last Minute Holiday Decorating

2011-12-20T18:35:00.000+01:00

This post is all about my reflections on last minute holiday decorating.

No...not those kinds of reflections. The real ones. Literally.

A couple of days ago I talked with the Facebook crowd about the fact that I will still decorating for Christmas. While a lot of you are done (enviable), there are still a few of you who, like me, will be putting out decorations until the very morning of Christmas! My first day of decorating was at the beginning of December. But then I had to shift focus to my day job - and WHAM! All of the sudden there was only 1 week left. So, I am still putting together a little bit of this and that each day, and as I do, I'll share in case there are any last-minute wanderers out there like me.

I had a pile of christmas balls that never made it to the tree this year, so instead of packing them up, I grabbed my trusty ring of flexible wire (I always have some on hand from the DIY store), and started stringing them up.

Once you get a few on, it will start to look like this as the balls naturally wrap around each other. One of these days I'm gonna regret holding my camera in one hand and stretching the arm to hold out something to photograph in the other. Not because I might pull a muscle (a real possibility), but because I'll probably drop the camera. Note to self...must enlist assistance when taking blog photos.

Once I had all of the extra christmas balls strung on the wire, and I was in this pose that somewhat resembled the 'warrior' pose in yoga, my ~~husband~~ assistant walked up and offered his help. "Not because I think you're going to drop the camera," he said, "but because you look really uncomfortable." I'm pretty sure he thought I was going to drop the camera.

The funny thing is that I didn't have a place in mind of where I was going to put this string of christmas balls before I started. I've seen beautiful wreaths, but my wire was flexible and was not intended to hold the circle shape. No, I had plans of wrapping it somewhere. So I literally started walking around the house with the string in my hands. Around the glass vase? No. Nestled amongst the nutcracker collection? Nah. Wrapped around Lulu? Yes! I found the perfect spot. Remember my renovated vintage chandelier Lulu that is filled with glass baubles? She now has a beautiful new holiday outfit!

I took off Lulu's light shades - they are going to get a revamp and I'm waiting for inspiration to hit. But doesn't the string of christmas balls suit her like a T? I love how they look like they are just going to tumble down at any second. All I had to do was lay the wire up and over each arm, and then twist the two wire ends. Super simple.

It's another happy little color pop for the holidays! And all it took was 15 minutes, plus a few extra minutes for arm-stretching photo shots.

See those frames with the black and white in the background? Come back tomorrow to see this ridiculously simple project.

Until next time...
Mike

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