A Crafty St. Patty {Linky} Party

Yay!!  A new holiday blog event is just beginning!!  To kick off the Crafty St. Patty Party, here's an extended St. Patrick's Day linky party!!  I can't wait to see all of the great, inspiring posts you link up!!

Linky List #6 w/Features

This past week proved to me that you all haven't given up on my despite my bloggy absence!!  Thank you sooo much to each person that linked up last week!!

Before I get to the features and this week's party, I just want to give you all a quick personal update on my recovery from surgery...

As I said in my last update, I had a couple complications, but now I'm doing better and better each and every day!!  I can't wait to be back to my craftin' and bloggin' self again, because just laying around all day is not for me!!

There are a few other fun posts coming this week besides today's linky party!!  Here's what you can look forward to:

Wednesday

WOYWW #6: A fun peek into my crafty work space!!

Friday

Fun Fact Friday: More details about March's big giveaway!!

Saturday/Sunday

Weekend Workshop: A super fun pair of tutorials that you're going to love!!

Now, let's get to those features...

Last week's "Top Looked at Linky" was...

Craft Room Table Makeover
from Jillify It

What a super simple table makeover tutorial!!  I love it!!  Along with the rest of Jill's craft room!!  hehehe


"Lisa's Loved Linkies" from last week were...

DIY Magnet Organization Board
from AKM Designs & Delights

Such a cool idea and a great tutorial too!!  I would love to have one for my kitchen...and my craft room too!!

Double Strand Braided Ribbon Headband
from Love Bug Living

Another easy, but gorgeous project!!  I plan on making a few of these for a good friend of mine!!

Burlap Wreath
from Made in a Day

Ahh, my beloved burlap!!  This is so gorgeous that it just may be the first wreath I ever make!!

Lisa's Linky List #6

This linky party will be open until Saturday, February 25th at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, February 27th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/6911626041_c0e1786acd_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Please, only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A few other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Lisa's Linky List #5

This linky party will be open until Saturday, February 18th at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, February 20th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6317813636_d809429d80_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Please, only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A few other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

A Love-Filled Linky List

It's finally here!!  Today kicks off the 15-day Love-Filled Valentine's Event!!  The first part of the event is the...

LOVE-FILLED LINKY LIST

This party will run for almost 2 weeks, ending at 11:59PM on February 11th. Come back regularly to check out all of the recently linked up projects and posts.  On February 13th, I'll announce “Lisa’s 3 Loved Linkies” and the “Top 5 Looked at Linkies”.

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisas-craft-blog.com" target="_blank"><img src=" http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6691732553_8be15ded11_m.jpg " width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up Valentine's Day related posts including crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Linky List #4 w/Features

Thanks to everyone for participating another super fun linky party last week!!  There was a total of 33 links added and each one was so inspiring!!  Here are the features from "Lisa's Linky List #3"...

The Top Looked at Linky goes to...

Cool Tips

from Alderberry Hill

Sarah is back at it again with another collection of really cool, random tips found on Pinterest!!  Her post has 9 tips such as the No-Slip Dish Towel (shown above) and using paper clips to hold wrapping paper on the roll!!

My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Hammered Hearts

from Kat's Nature

These hearts are so simple and yet so gorgeous!!  In this tutorial Kat shows you step-by-step how to make these hammered hearts.  I know I can think of many, many ways to use these gorgeous charms/pendants!!

The Un-Twistable Necklace

from Chicken Scratch

This is a wonderfully detailed tutorial that shows you how to make beautiful lariat-style necklaces that clasp in the front!!  These necklaces would be fun to make for experienced and novice jewelry makers!!

Valentine Chex Mix

From The Taylor House

Chrissy shares a great snack recipe that looks so delicious!!  She even shares how to package it up in cute little bags and adorable tags too!!  This post has my mouth watering for sure!!

Lisa's Linky List #4

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 28th at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, January 30th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6317813636_d809429d80_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Lisa's Linky List #3 w/Features

Thanks to everyone that linked up last week!!  It was another inspiring party and I loved each linky!!  I just wish I could feature everyone's posts that they linked up!!  Since I can't do that, here are the 4 features from "Lisa's Linky List #2"...

There was a tie for the Top Looked at Linky and the two with the most views were...


Flip Out Circle Photo Book
from Cabin Fevered Gem

I think this would be such a great card for friends and family far away!!  Gen shares her version of a video tutorial found on YouTube.  She shares the video as well, so we can make them too!!


DIY Winter Painting
from Chicken Scratch

Alecia shares how anyone can paint this beautiful "Winter Branches" painting in this step-by-step tutorial!!  I'm going to have to try this one really soon!!





My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Linen & Lace Fingerless Gloves Tutorial
from Nancy's Couture

Nancy shares this super simple tutorial showing us how to make these beautiful lace embellished, fingerless gloves!!  I am definitely making myself a pair of these ASAP!!

Microwave Brownie Sundae Recipe
from A Crafty Cook

How could I not feature this amazing recipe from Erin?!?  A brownie Sundae that you don't have to bake!!  I'm going to treat my mum to this when she visits this week!!

DIY Daily Affirmation Box
from Craftin' Cowgirl

I LOVE daily affirmations and need to get in the habit of saying them.  I should use Jen's tutorial and make my own Daily Affirmation Box!!  This tutorial is great; there's no way I could mess it up!!


If you were featured today, feel free to snag a Featured Button from my Buttons page.

Lisa's Linky List #3

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 21st at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, January 23rd, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6317813636_d809429d80_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Lisa's Linky List #2 w/Features

Thank you to everyone that participated in my first linky party ever last week!!  I've had so much fun seeing all the wonderful posts that were linked up!!

Here are the features from "Lisa's Linky List #1"...

The Top Looked at Linky goes to...

Ideas to Make Life Easier

from Alderberry Hill

There are so many great tips in this post, such as the fact that bread tags make perfect cord labels (shown above) and how to neatly fold fitted sheets!!  Love this collection of tips!!

My 3 top picks (aka Lisa's Loved Linkies) are...

Making Boxes

from Kat's Nature

This post contains a great step-by-step, instructional video tutorial on how to make your own paper box and the lid too!!  Congrats to Kat on her first video tutorial!!

Song Birds

from Bleak2Unique

I'm in love with this tutorial that shows how to make these adorable little birds!!  You're not going to believe what Lori used to give them that great aged look!!

Homemade Bath Fizzies with Poem

From Sweet Anne

This is a project that I've never made before...Homemade Bath Fizzies!!  This step-by-step tutorial also includes a free printable poem you can give the gift recipient.  So neat!!

Lisa's Linky List #2

This linky party will be open until Saturday, January 14th at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, January 16th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies" from this week's party!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6317813636_d809429d80_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, diy projects, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A couple other quick things I want to mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!!

Lisa's Linky List #1

This is not only the first linky party of 2012, it's also the first ever "Lisa's Linky List" linky party!!  I'm so excited to host this party and can't wait to see what kind of great stuff you share this week!!

This party will be open until Saturday, January 7th at 11:59PM Eastern time.  Then on Monday, January 9th, I'll feature the "Top Looked at Linky" and "Lisa's 3 Loved Linkies"!!

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6317813636_d809429d80_o.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

You don't have to, but I'd really appreciate a link back or for you to add my linky party button to your post or sidebar to help me spread the word. 

I want to keep this pretty simple so I only have 2 rules...

1. Only link up posts such as crafts, recipes, cleaning/organizing ideas, money saving tips, decorating, etc. 

2. Do not link up shops, giveaways or any post trying to sell something. 

A couple other quick things I want to quickly mention about this linky party...

* Remember to link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page. 
* By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post. 
* Please visit other links and comment!! 

Christmas Craft Marathon Linky Party

Welcome to the Party!! 

This is the first time I have ever hosted a Linky Party and I’m so excited I can hardly stand it!! I just can't wait to see all of your Christmas crafts!! 

This party will run for the entire 26-Day Christmas Craft Marathon, ending on at 11:59PM on December 15th. Come back regularly to check out the most recent links and to see which projects I feature. Anyone that has a project featured will be able to use my “Featured” button on their blog!! 

On December 16th, I will announce the 8 Christmas Craft Marathon Leaders!! They’ll be made up of “Lisa’s 3 Loved Linkies” and the “Top 5 Looked at Linkies”. These 8 leaders will receive the super special “I Led the Christmas Craft Marathon” button via e-mail!! 

THE RULES:

• Link up Christmas-related tutorials and projects only! This includes ornaments, decor, crafts, recipes, etc.
• Post as many links as you want - older posts are fine, because they’re new to me!
• Link directly to your specific post, not your blog’s main page.
• No Etsy shops, pages selling things, link parties, giveaways, etc.
• Please add either my normal button (on the right-hand sidebar), the Marathon button (below), or even just a text link somewhere on your blog.

<a border="0" href="http://www.lisascraftblog.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6212/6350083064_bb794d632c_m.jpg" width="150px;" height="150px" /></a>

Note: By linking up, you give me permission to use content from your post for the purpose of featuring you, which would include linking back to your blog and post.

Tutorial: A (Nearly) Perfect Accordion-Folded Disc

We've all made roughly folded paper fans as kids and as adults we now use the accordion fold for our craft projects.  If you're a perfectionist like me, then you've probably struggled with trying to get your folds even and straight.

This tutorial will show you a way to make an (almost) perfect accordion fold and how to turn it into a disc like the one below so you an use it for paper-crafting!!

During the 26-Day Christmas Craft Marathon, I will show you how to make ornaments that incorporate accordion folded paper discs into the designs, so I want to show you how to make them before the "marathon" starts.

Step 1: GATHER SUPPLIES

Necessary

- Book Page(s)

- Ruler/Straight-edge

- Pencil

- Cardstock

- Glue (I used Aleene's Fast Grab Tacky Glue)

Optional

- Decorative scissors

- Ink pad

Step 2: PREP PAPER

The line you add in this step is the key to getting your accordion folds straight.

Cut Paper

Remove the blank top, bottom, and side sections of the page(s).

Cut two 3" strips from your page(s).

Optional: Either tear or use decorative scissors to just barely trim one of the long edges of each strip. 

Mark Paper

Optional: Add ink to the torn or decorative edge of your strips.

Using your ruler or straight-edge draw a (very) straight line as shown in the photo above.

Flip the paper over and draw the same line in the same spot on the other side.

Note: The way I marked my paper was my folding my paper lengthwise and then tracing the fold on both sides with a pencil.

IMPORTANT: Make sure your line is either placed where it will be covered up or that it's drawn lightly enough with pencil that you can erase it.

Step 3: FOLD PAPER

Determine how thick you eventually want your disc.

Fold your paper that distance and make sure that the lines you drew match up.

Flip your strip over and fold in the opposite direction and once again match up your lines.

Note: By matching up the lines, your accordion fold will be just about perfect!

Step 4: GLUE ENDS

Glue the short ends of your strips together to form a circle like that shown above.

Gather the non-decorative side together and push out the other side to form a disc.

IMPORTANT:  If your strips were 6" or less, the decorative edge will probably be too tight to form a disc. If this is the case, simply trim about 1/4"-1/3" off the non-decorative edge until you're able to form the disc without the outside being too tight. 

Step 5: ATTACH DISC

Prep Back

Punch or cut a 1" - 1 1/2" circle of cardstock.

Add a generous amount of glue to the center of the circle.

Place a ring of glue similar to the one in the photo above.

Attach Back

With the paper shaped like a disc, press the cardstock circle in the center on the back of the disc.

Press together and quickly make sure your folds are evenly spaced and that the center of the disc is nice and tightly pushed together.

FINISHED!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Starts tomorrow at

4:00am (Eastern Time)!!

Be sure to link up your Christmas projects to the Christmas Craft Marathon Linky Party over the next 26 days!!

SNEAK PEEK!!

Here are just a few pictures from the tutorials that I'll be sharing with you during the "marathon".

Thanks for reading!!  Until till next time...

26-Day Christmas Craft Marathon Details

Mark your calendar!!

Nov. 20 - Dec. 15

The 26-Day Christmas Craft Marathon is going be a chance for us to get together and share our holiday craft projects with one another!! 

THE PLAN 

• 26 new Christmas-themed craft tutorials!! One will be posted on each day throughout the "marathon"! 
• A Christmas Craft Marathon Linky Party!! It will be a 26-day linky party for any and all Christmas-themed craft links! 
• Featured Projects: I'll feature various linked up projects throughout the whole "marathon" and anyone whose project is featured gets to use my nifty "Featured" button! 
• 8 Christmas Craft Marathon Leaders: They’ll be made up of “Lisa’s 3 Loved Linkies” and the “Top 5 Looked at Linkies”; the Leaders will receive an e-mail with the code for the super special “I Led the Christmas Craft Marathon” button!! 

I NEED YOUR HELP!! 

Christmas Tutorial Collections Wanted!!  I'm looking for bloggers that have fantastic collections of Christmas craft tutorials (not just project pictures) on their blog!! If I like your "collection", I will feature a slideshow of 10 photos from your tutorials along with a brief paragraph about your blog and links to your blog and tutorials!! If you have a good "collection", please send an e-mail to me at virgotigergirl(at)gmail(dot)com!! 

If you have a really awesome Christmas craft project that you think should be featured somehow, please e-mail me!! 

Any suggestions for other activities I can include in the "marathon" are absolutely welcome!! Please comment below or send me an e-mail!!

EDIT

You can find the Christmas Craft Marathon Linky Party HERE.  I can't wait to see what you come up with!!

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...