re-purposing packaging

This was another project that I had bookmarked for ages. It's about using scrapbook product packaging and getting creative with it. I just had to wait until I had a good package to use because they are usually scratched up in the front (the clear ones). This project took just minutes to do.

I used the packaging from an adhesive because it was in great condition...no scratches on the front:


I covered the front and back of the packaging backing/insert with paper. I added a scalloped border across the middle for a little extra something and embellished with a candy cane sticker, a stamped sentiment and a "To" and "From" tag....which I covered up with an identical blank tag for privacy because I had written the names on it-that's why the tag looks like it's just sitting on top of the package.

When the insert is all decorated, just add candy and slide the packaging together...then tie a ribbon through the top holes to keep it together. A cute and festive way to give candy!

refurbishing a Christmas decoration

I have a really old, hand-me-down Christmas decoration/wall hanging. I haven't taken it out of storage for the last few years because it's old...and um...I didn't want to hang it up in my house, lol. I'm sure that when it was new it was just the cutest thing, but that was many years ago!

This year, I wanted to see if I could spruce it up a bit before I tossed it. I just used what I had on hand for supplies and had to scrounge for letters that were the same size and could spell out a word...I'm usually short a vowel or something. I think it's a big improvement than what it was before...so I'm not going to toss it!

before

after

I didn't take a side-view picture, but I painted the sides a fresher coat of green that matched the green on the paper:

The letters are just raw chipboard letters that I painted white:

on display

Stickles and dotted stamp idea

I was playing around with some Stickles and decided to make my own "bling" embellishment-similar to those self-adhesive rhinestone circles. It's pretty darn close! All you need is a basic dotted stamp design and some Stickles.

I used an old 7 gypsies dotted circle stamp because the dot pattern is uniform and makes it easy to apply the Stickles.

I cut a 2 1/4" circle out of some paper to demonstrate.


I centered the stamp over the circle and pressed down. This would be easier to center if using clear stamps.


Take the Stickles and start covering the black dots. It has a thick consistency, so it's very easy to apply.

Once you finish applying the Stickles, the dots look a little weird...raised and pointy. Set aside to dry.
Note: as they dry, the raised dots will go down...but will be slightly raised.


Here it is finished. IRL, it's much more vibrant and sparkly!