It's Cheap, Sturdy and Charming

Have we talked about using drop cloths for crafting? I like the Everbilt brand from Home Depot because it doesn't have a seam. It is study and cost $11-$12 for a 6 X 9 ft. cloth. I'd say that is a pretty good bargain. I have found it is best to wash before using, especially if you plan to stencil on it. This is my most recent drop cloth creation,

Stencil cut with Silhouette Portrait

Perfect for the popular farmhouse look. In addition to pillows I have used drop cloth to make banners, garden flags and tablecloths. My next dc project is curtains for The Wanderer which I need to do soon as she will be taking us to warmer places for the winter.

Fall Centerpiece

Remember this project from 2014?

Yesterday I had the opportunity to share the technique with the Perennial Garden Club. Since I am still in a sharing mood, I'll share it again with you.

Here is what you need:

• A pumpkin or gourd
• Glue gun
• Sheet moss or Spanish moss
• A variety of succulents
• Dried flowers, dried leaves, lavender, berries, etc. 

NO, YOU DO NOT NEED A KNIFE; YOU WILL NOT CUT THE TOP OF THE PUMPKIN

NO, YOU DO NOT NEED A DRILL; YOU WILL NOT DRILL HOLES INTO THE PUMPKIN.

Wash the pumpkin or gourd if needed (I just wiped mine off a little)

Use the glue gun and adhere moss.

Use the glue gun to adhere the succulents to the moss.

Add berries, lavender, leaves, or other natural decorations.

That's it! Easy, peasy! 

This one is mine.

Question, how to care for it?  Spray occasionally with water (I forget to do this and it doesn't seem to mind.) Take it inside if the temperature drops to freezing. That's all you need to do. 

Next question, how long will it last? Depending on the state of the pumpkin, 2-3 months. When the pumpkin starts to deteriorate, slice off the top (okay, you will need a knife at this point), plant in a pot with soil and let those little succulents grow. 

Have fun (if you can still find a pumpkin.) 

Back in The Underground

after a 5 week stay in Handy Randy’s hometown (it’s football season.)

As much as I like to travel, I am always sooo….happy to return to our little bungalow and especially to my studio.

While in Texas, I did a couple of graphite drawings and experimented with colored pencils. I also started another Zenbroidery project. (Those long drives don't seem so long when I am stitching.)

We will be home only a few weeks before we get The Wanderer out of storage and head for warmer weather. In the meantime, I will attempt to decrease my number of UFO projects (especially those that will add color to interior of The Wanderer. 

Stay tuned for my progress.