Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Day 4 - Stars are Bright

Wow, what an influx of visitors to One Lucky Day...and we do feel lucky!  Thanks to Tim for sending you our way!  We have been friends with Tim for some time and have always found him to the nicest person.  Never a harsh word about anyone, only positive, generous and supportive of our creative endeavors. Thanks Tim!

After reading all your comments I have to say..."Who knew there were so many Christmas songs out there?"  I sure didn't!  So many of you loved, "Silent Night" and "Mary did you know?" and a lot of Bing Crosby mentioned.  I have never heard the song with the hippopotamus in the name for sure! But a ton of you had.   And only 2 people were disqualified for picking Feliz Navidad (just kidding). 

Thank you everyone who commented!
The winner of Day 3 of the 7 Days of Giveaways!
 Congratulations! 
 Bloggerrobyncal said...
Oh thanks so much for the 411 on how you made the flash card, was going to re purpose the WISH one I received in the spool kit!! I love Christmas music and can’t wait till Dec to start playing it, I love it when the kids sing songs especially "Mary did you know?” I think that is the name of the song. Thanks for all the gift packaging ideas!                                   
December 14, 2011 7:06 PM

 Robyn please email me at paula@2gypsygirls.com to claim your prize!  
You have 24 hours or it goes back in the pot!

Now on to today's tutorial...
Stars Are Bright

I started out today making something totally different and about 12 o'clock changed my mind.  Sometimes something comes to you and you just have to try it to see if it will work.  So today's project is less about technique and more about engineering and a challenge.  I say challenge because my blog friend, Leslie from Dallas sent me some great vintage files to see what I could make out of them.  And suddenly at 12:00 it came to me.  So Leslie, I hope I have risen to the occasion!


  (click on picture to make larger)
Our regular readers know I like to make things from stuff I already have at a home.  I almost did it this time except I did have to go to the hardware store for the wing nuts.  

I used a few chipboard house shapes (Collections Elements) I had in my stash and covered each of them in the file paper from Leslie.  If you wanted to cut your own house shapes it really wouldn't be hard, you will just need 4 or 5 different shapes and sizes.  The tallest one I am using here is about 4".
House 1 - Vintage earring - cut the back off and hammer flat as possible.
                  Words cut from an old book of poems (I love finding the right words for a piece)
House 2 - Vintage tatting
                 Idea-o-logy Keyholes
Gold Flower Embellishment - I bought this from Oh, Hello friend at the Renegade Craft Show last weekend.  I added the vintage pearls.
 Houses 3 thru 5 - Little Girl Ephemera (Collections Elements)
                              little red label - vintage
                              7 stamp - 7gypsies
                              gold puffed heart - stash
 House 6 - Idea-ology Plaquettes number
                 Adirondack Dabber Paint- Espresso
                 Door handle - clipped off earring back
House 7 - vintage watch face

I didn't photograph every step because I think you can figure most of it out just by looking at the piece.  So if there is something I missed just email me - paula@2gypsygirls.com

FOUNDATION
Adhere the paper to the chipboard with Multi Medium and let it dry.   
Sand the edges and ink with Vintage Photo Distress Ink.
PHOTO
Cut out your photo.
You can use a family photo, just make a black and white copy.
Ink it up a bit to age it.
My little girls dress was plain so I colored it lightly with a colored pencil and gave her some detail.
TREE
I had a 2 1/2" bottle brush tree left over from the village kit since it had a broken base.
I removed the base,
then gave it a haircut.
I cut all the branches off the back so it could lay flat against the houses.
Tim's Tonic scissors worked like a dream to do this.
Next, I painted on some white glue,
then rolled it in a pan of glitter.  Set aside to dry.
DOOR
So I had this idea to cut a door in one of the houses.
I found it's better to cut the door in the chipboard first...bend it back and fort, then add the paper and re-cut along the same lines. 
I added some paper to the back of the door.
Inked all the newly cut edges.
But I need a door handle.  So here's the deal.  I went looking for some of Tim's hitch fasteners but I didn't have any.  So I'm standing in the middle of the room trying to think what I can use for a door knob when I noticed the back of a screw-on earring that I had cut off about a week ago.  When I cut it, it flew across the room and I couldn't find the remnant, until now.  What luck!
Because, look how good it worked.
I added a dot of E6000 and just squeezed the metal around the door.
Love making something out of junk.  Who knew what I was going to throw away last week would become this weeks saving grace.  Although I am quite sure the word hoarder might be involved if I thought that way about everything.
In the end I did added a picture of a man in the window so there would be something to look at when you open the door.
BASE
To make the base I used 3 parts:
  1. A piece of a measuring stick about 2" longer than the length of your houses.
  2. A piece of book board the length of your houses.
  3. A piece of wood the same length of the book board (mine is 3/4" thick).
Use a clamp to sandwich the three pieces together like this.
Drill a hole on each end (thanks to my husband for his help...again)
I decided to use wing nuts to secure the three pieces.  This is where we leave and go to the hardware store.
Now were back...
I used Ginger Alcohol Ink to color the wing nut and screws.  The easiest way to do this is to just squirt the Alcohol Ink into a small bag.
Once dry, add the wing nuts to the foundation.
Now add the houses to the book board that is sticking up between the ruler and wood.
Now just move on to the embellish any what you want...that was the fun part!
I love how it turned out!  And it looks so good with all my gypsy books (most from my friend Sandra in Australia).  I think I may have a harder time giving away this piece than Peace On Earth!

If you would like to enter to win today's giveaway
to win "Stars are Bright" for your home, please leave a comment.
Today's question: What do you do to get "inspired" for the holidays?
Day 4 Giveaway is open till 12 midnight pacific time.  
Winner will be posted tomorrow morning and you will have 24 hours to claim your prize.
I thought I might end today's post by sharing my favorite song.  Mine is 'Breath of Heaven' by Amy Grant. Out of all the comments yesterday I believe I read that only 2 other people picked this song.  So if you have never heard this song before here is a link to a video I found on You Tube.  It illustrates the Saviors birth beautifully accompanied by Amy Grant's music. 
Happy Holidays!
paula

182 comments:

  1. First - I want to live at your house just for the supplies!!!
    I find music helps get me motivated...I am constantly humming Christmas Carols at work when doing a little christmas cheer work - I need to do more of that at HOME!!!

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  2. I stop...and pay attention to my little girl...she's 3 and her excitement is infectious if you stop to pay attention to it all!
    Great project!! TFS

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  3. Am I the first one to comment? I love this project! I have had that die for awhile and have been thinking of ways to use it. You are the best, love you designs. I am going to finally use that die. Thank you!

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  4. I was almost the first one, two people beat me while I was trying to type on my IPad. Lol!

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  6. I love the little man behind the door and just realized that you are giving away your beautiful art. If I win, I will re-gift it back to you because it looks so nice with your books. I get my inspiration for the holidays from candy, cookies, fudge, etc., there are temptations everywhere!

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  7. h I am loving all your Christmas questions!
    I start getting inspired the week before Thanksgiving. I have an annual big project at work that is always completed the Friday before Thanksgiving. With that off my shoulders I am able to think about, dream about, and plan for Christmas. And on that same Friday is when the "baby" comes home from college. I start by getting the latest cookie magazines and planning my baking, then I start on cookie dough. It goes into the freezer and comes out for baking the week before Christmas! I love planning the cookies. It gets me all geared up for Christmas!

    Linda
    linda.bertetta@gmail.com

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  8. Love this amazing piece and thanks for the great tutorial! Still working on getting inspired for the holidays. I do like to have pretty packages under the tree, so I spend extra time and effort to put most things in a box and wrap with lovely paper and fabric ribbons. Almost always add some sort of floral accent, and this year I am adding pretty Cavallini bird tags.

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  9. That project is right up my alley!! Love it! I get inspired at Christmas time when I am desperate for the perfect gift for someone and the only way to make that happen is to create it myself!!

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  10. I listen to a lot of christmas music~loud and drink mulled cider. That always gets me in the mood! Thanks for the chance to win and the great little "lesson"!

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  11. I decorate!!! Inside and out. Our house looks like Chevy Chase lives here! Love lights!

    Jean in Dallas

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  12. Your project is so beautiful. I love it. To get inspired, I visit blogs and watch youtube videos. I find you all very talented. Thanks for the chance, Johanne L.

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  13. Fantastic project! Inspipration comes to me once the snow starts falling and the Christmas lights are on the roof and my tree is in the window... and my kids come home!

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  14. Oh I listen to Christmas music to get me geared up for Christmas. Andy Williams and all. then start with candy and cookie making and making Jesus Birthday cake. He gets one every year. Love your new project also.
    xox

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  15. I start playing Christmas music the end of August! Getting the Christmas Tree and Garland and lights us with music, just the ticket to get in the mood! This project is adorable. I love it!
    Thanks for sharing!

    Lori

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  16. How do I get inspired? Apparently by coming here!! I want to run home to make something similar! (To heck with shopping and wrapping! Hee!) Absolutely gorgeous!

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  17. Wonderful project! I get inspired for the holidays by looking at books and magazines for ideas on decorating and card making and food, and scouring the blog for great ideas like you always present. As the holiday gets closer, I like to have Christmas music playing ... LOVE this time of year.

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  18. I have to get started with projects for the Holidays in October - well before Halloween - so it's hard sometimes to get in the Christmas mood. So, despite the absolutely crazy looks it earns me from my husband, I start playing Christmas music before the jack-o-lantern is even lit!

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  19. This is adorable! Thanks for the chance to win this :)

    Listening to Christmas music and putting up my tree and decorations starts me in the mood. But I think actually making and/or buying and wrapping presents is what really inspires me :) This year I am making most all of my gifts so though I am busy, I am feeling very Christmasy!

    rebeccadunham at hotmail dot com

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  20. What a lovely, lovely project! My inspiration is always my childhood. There was so much magic and I still believe in the magic!

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  21. Wow! Fabulous dressing for the mantle.....love all things "gypsy"!

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  22. What a great project and wonderful ideas for using extra items and odds and ends. My craft room is full of stuff that I don't want to throw away because I might use them someday. Planning our holiday menus and making Christmas cookies always gets me inspired for the season. It's a family affair - my husband and kids all get involved in picking the cookies that we'll make and selecting other food items that we want to try throughout the holidays. Thanks!

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  23. The "Stars are Bright" that you created is beyond words BEAUTIFUL! I love the detail you included in the tutorial and will have to (someday) try to make one in similar fashion.

    To get inspired for the holidays I decorate my home, listen to Christmas music, and take time to appreciate the little things in life. Life is so very precious and time just seems to fly right by.

    Thank you for the chance to win such a beautiful piece of artwork. I can see how this would be difficult to share with some other lucky soul. May you and yours have a Most Joyous Holiday Season. Cheers, Tonya

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  24. Very cool project. Boy, would that look good on my mantle. especially so because all my Xmas decorations are packed and over at the new house. Don't ever move at Christmas!

    I bake to get inspired. Love those cookies.

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  25. Oh wow! I love the little houses especially the one with the little window and the Christmas tree. Usually what gets me inspired for the Holidays is when I put up our Christmas village on our entertainment center. I also like to get inspired by Tim Holtz's 12 tags of Christmas.

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  26. Gorgeous project as usual...I am always inspired by your blog! I love looking through magazines and books of all varieties, watching videos online, taking classes and surfing the web, especially blogs. Thank you for the inspiration and chance to win.

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  27. I'm always in the mood for christmas, but to get inspired i reach for some of my favourite stampy/crafty magazines and search some of my favourite blogs! Yours included!!!

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  28. I love your project and want to make something like it for next year's Christmas. I keep a list of sites I follow on Google Reader for inspiration--and I like having Christmas music playing while I decorate and work on projects.

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  29. It would be awesome to make a Countdown to Christmas calendar like this (I've been looking for ideas). Thanks for the inspiration!

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  30. Listening to Christmas music always puts me in the holiday mood! I love the clipped off earring back as a door handle. How do you think of this stuff??? So inspiring!

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  31. Just getting my decorations out gets my creative juices flowing. The sad part is that I am always so busy this time of year that I don't have as much time as I would like to be creative. I also need more shelves! Too much stuff!! No wait, you can let me take that back. If I am making it and repurposing it is OK.

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  32. WOW, it would be hard to part with such an amazing project like this. One person is going to have an amazing beautiful piece! I love the detail tutorial, thanks for such a labor of love!! Liking the use of a clip on earring as a door handle. This was simply beautiful and inspiring! Loving all the ideas and giveaways.

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  33. This is ADORABLE!!! Christmas music is a great way to get into the holiday spirit! And snow helps too! :)

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  34. For the holidays I get inspired to make stuff, mostly holiday greeting cards, but I do love to make holiday ATCs, too.

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  35. i love your little village! so so clever :) when i start to put my decorations out at home, it makes me think of years past and then i'm wondering what this years christmas memories will be!

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  36. I'm not sure what exactly puts me in the Christmas-y mood. This may be related to your last question, but listening to Handel's Messiah reminds me of what Christmas is all about. I have two versions--the traditional version and a contemporary. I love them both.

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  37. I get inspired by looking at blogs like this one. I love to add my own touch to this kind of project.

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  38. I get inspired for the holidays by creating, I love to give gifts from the heart, things I've made. I love all the wonderful blogs, like yours, Tim's tags,etc. with so many creative ideas. Reading them always gets my creative juices flowing and I can't wait to get into the studio to try them out.

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  39. Love all your tutorials. To get inspired I read blogs such as yours and look at all the talent in blogland and think, "I can do that". Right?? You make it look so easy. Please keep sharing all your wonderful ideas and talent.

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  40. Love it!must find some papers around here but looks something I could do! ;-D
    For getting inspired I usually go to my fav blogs about decoration and handmade crafting. They are always full of inspirational ideas.
    Pinterest makes it easier now and I can Pin any project I like so I don't forget it.
    Hugs, Vron

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  41. Genius, pure genius, I love how you showed us step by step instructions to make something simular. Thanks for the inspiration.

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  42. How creative! Love your houses and all the little "extras" you put into it. For the life of me I couldn't figure that one thing and it turned out to be a bottle brush. Fantastic!
    I get inspired by looking at other projects. Like looking at yours now. I really don't have a use for the houses (although I like it very much) but some of the "things" you did or added sure inspire me. Lets take that bottle brush. How about throwing it in a bag with some green alcohol ink and use it on a card or layout as a Christmas tree? I can even decorate it with Stickles or some Viva Pearl Pens...or both! This is just one example. I see many more I can put on a card or other project from looking at your houses. So....I guess I would have to say.....you inspire me.

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  43. The shelf sitter you made is so beautiful! I so wish that I'd kept more things from an old house that my grandmother purchased when I was a teen-ager. It was filled with things that would make the most wonderful items. I find inspiration in music and in old photos of Christmas when I was a child. Thank you so much for he wonderful ideas!!!!!

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  44. I love it when you use the things you have and recycle objects. Love this project.

    I get inspired when I bring out the Christmas ornaments I have collected over the years. My favorite is one from my Mom's first "married" tree. A little angel and sheep cut from a Christmas Card...Mom said that they didn't have any money to spend on decorations, so she used her imagination.

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  45. Love this project Paula! What a great idea you've shared to make it stand up. I'm fortunate to have a collection of Christmas craft books and flipping through those is always fun and inspiring. It's funny how tastes change and what may not have appealed to me years ago is what I love now. Of course, there are also lots of great blogs, Like One Lucky Day, with so many talented, generous people sharing their ideas and techniques.

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  46. The moment I turn the page on the calendar to December 1st it happens automatically!
    Love, love this project!

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  47. love your ideas! Thanks so much for sharing them.... as for being inspired.... i find reading blogs, and viewing pinterest help. i think, for me, the best inspiration is to shut off the computer, and take my supplies and go somewhere and just create. it's the shutting off the computer that's the hard part!

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  48. Love the house, it's so neat. I need to raid the local hardware store the next time I'm in town :)

    As for what inspires me for the holidays, there's nothing like Christmas music in the summer to get me going on my Christmas cards. Since my kids are grown and out of the house now, gifts are usually money, so I just have a few friends to shop for. And I shop all year round for Christmas gifts. Sometimes, that perfect gift for someone is on sale in April or May.

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  49. Gorgeous creation, especial loving the bottle brush tree!!!
    To get inspired, I listed to Christmas carols, watch many different versions of A Christmas Carol, especially the Muppet version with Michael Caine, make Christmas cookies to give away, make Christmas cards & gifts. I try to involve all of my senses, sight, sound. smells, tastes & touch.

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  50. I go to "One Lucky Day" to get inspired for holiday decorations, projects and to see all the places you gypsy girls have visited.
    The Bible inspires me to think beyond the holiday and remember what the birth of Jesus means to me.
    Thanks for these tutorials. I love them.

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  51. What a lovely project. I only hope I can do it as well !

    To get myself inspired I plan all my Christmas decorating a few weeks before December (about mid November). Then I start creating little things. From there, the ideas keep flowing, until, by this time, I am SO excited about Christmas.

    Of course, the grandchildren help too. Seeing their excitement inspires me to make Christmas very special in our home. :)

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  52. I adore, love and am obsessed with that Amy Grant song. I didn't know the name of it and was too lazy to get up and find my CD to find the name- no I have never uploaded that CD to iTunes…Guess I need to.. I don't ever want to be this lazy again. Gorgeous gorgeous song.

    How do I get inspired? My aforementioned Christmas Tree.

    Love the little village. I made similar houses for a card swap this year.

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  53. I get out my moms 4" yellow cookbook that is worn and splattered with every imaginable recipe. It was one they (mom and dad) assembled by tuning "S&H green stamps" ever heard of those?
    It also has little comments written by my mom throughout the pages-- example--Christmas 1974--good. or Easter 1965- don't make this ever again!
    I need to photograph this cookbook.

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  54. This is my favorite piece so far! I love the yardstick, glittery tree, and of course the house theme! I can't really get inspired for the holidays until I've seen a classic movie or two-"It's a Wonderful Life", the original "Grinch," etc.

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  55. adorable project!! love how you used so many different items! great inspiration!

    my inspiration is definitely listening to Christmas music.

    thanks for the chance!!

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  56. To get inspired for the holidays, I just check the 2 Gypsy Girls blog! You both are so creative and are kind enough to feature other artists and their ideas, too. Thanks for all the wonderful creations you've shared with us all.

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  57. DIY projects on the web, Tim Holtz's 12 tags of Christmas, holiday music and holiday recipes all put me in the holiday spirit.

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  58. Oh my!! These houses are sweet! I truly will be making a row of houses to go with my bottle brush tree forest. Love this idea!
    I find inspiration for the Holidays in so many places. I value my artistic friends and associates who come up with the BEST pieces. And, of course, then there are blogs such as yours (and Tim's) that so generously share beautiful techniques. Thanks!
    Karen H

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  59. I love your project that is just so cute!
    As for your question. I get inspired for the holidays when I start planning out what cute gift for my kids to give to their classmates. This year we did a gift of warmth. We made hot cocoa packs for everyone.

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  60. Your art is wonderful! Happy Holidays!!
    Janet

    The song is Brahm's Lullaby.....
    Here are the lyrics sung by Celine Dion:
    Lullaby and good night
    In the sky stars are bright
    Around your head flowers gay
    Set your slumbers till day
    Lullaby and good night
    In the sky stars are bright
    Around your head flowers gay
    Set your slumbers till day
    Close your eyes now and rest
    May these hours be blessed
    Close your eyes now and rest
    May these hours be blessed
    Bonne nuit cher enfant
    Dans tes langes blanches
    Repose joyeux en rêvant des cieux
    Quand le jour reviendra
    Tu te réveilleras
    Quand le jour reviendra
    Tu te réveilleras
    Lullaby and good night
    In the sky stars are bright
    Around your head flowers gay
    Set your slumbers till day

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  61. Love the houses and your favorite song is beautiful. I think I could find a tremendous amount of inspiration at your house amongst your supplies and all the wonderful things you make. I seem to find inspiration everywhere. All I have to do is open my eyes and have an open mind. I have nine grandchildren who inspire me. They inspire me to create with a hope for the future that they will hold onto the joy that is in their young hearts.

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  62. Well...wow! So many cool, creative ideas in one project! Love it! For me, holiday inspiration is found in seeing all the houses dressed up for the season, the radio stations playing the music and checking out all the blogs and their wonderful holiday projects!

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  63. I get inspired for the holidays right after I take down my Halloween decorations - I have the entire month of November to think of hostess gifts, make crafts for neighbors and friends - and just to enjoy a bit of quiet before the rush !! I also do a December Daily book which illustrates a picture and journalling for each day of Dec - I do the 1st to 25th and it is such fun !!!
    LOVE your houses - so cute !!!

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  64. I start checking out the craft blogs for decorating ideas. I start dreaming of things I can do to make my kid's Christmas magical like mine was. My little girl usually helps me and we have a blast. All thanks to the awesome blogs I visit!

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  65. That is a cool project. Thanks for the details .
    Smiles,andra

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  66. I love the tip on making shiny wing nuts look older. Thanks..
    It doesn't take much to get me inspired for the holidays - I love everything about Christmas time. I start decorating the day after Thanksgiving and don't take em down until New Years Day. I wish I could have the outside lights up much longer, I so love the look.

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  67. This year I got my inspiration from visiting Terrain Nursery outside of Philly. Their style is much like yours. I got some beautiful bottle brush trees there. And got the idea to make a little vignette under a cloche.

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  68. What an adorable little row of houses! Love how you gave your tree a haircut to fit in the neighborhood. Thinking about the real reason for Christmas is what gets me inspired. Have a wonderful day.

    Hugs,
    Robin

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  69. I love your project very much.
    To get inspired for christmas I'm often looking through blogs, magazines, youtube videos etc.

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  70. This project has got to be the best I've ever seen! I hope it gets to come live at my house! As far as inspiration goes, finding projects like this to decorate with does it for me!

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  71. amazing project! I love Breath of Heaven also. My daughter has sang it at church for the last few years! As far as inspiration, music and decorations and doing Christmas devotions (devotions from the bible verses pertaining to the birth of Christ) wonderful blog, so glad I saw Tim's invite

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  72. What a wealth of ideas in a beautiful project! Especially the bottle brush tree and the earring back.
    Theday after Thanksgiving is my official Christmas start date. I turn on the outdoor lights for the first time that night and I'm in Christmas heaven.From then on,everything Christmas delights me. The music, lights, decorations, watching the kids taking their photo with Santa, TV commercials -anything and everything. Most of all,I try very hard to enjoy every little thing.

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  73. What a great art piece! You and bloggers like you are what gets my holiday inspirations moving! Thanks for sharing.

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  74. My grandson who is 12, always writes his Christmas List on the erase board in November so that is the start of my motivation. Nothing better than a child getting ready for Santa to come.

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  75. I am inspired by everything going on around me.
    I work in retail so surrounded by fashion and often find it reflects in crafting :D

    Oh and T!m LOL

    Gorgeous project, thanks for the inspiration :D
    J xx

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  76. I love looking at all the beautiful blogs, and of course, Tim's 12 tags is a great kick-off. I'm loving all the comments, and of course, Christmas music is the best! I just love your houses and how you embellished them. Great prize!

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  77. Wow-I love this piece! :)

    Inspiration starts when the decorations start coming into the shops! I love that time X

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  78. Seriously....be inspired by life. I never look at say, artwork and suddenly am inspired. I'm inspired by being alive each day. By breathing. By taking in everything life gives around me. If you let it flow like that, you will never not know what to do. Happy (or sad, your choice, lol) Holidays...;-0

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  79. OMG Paula! I LOVE your project!!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!! Wow! For holiday inspiration, I just look around at nature and things that I see outside. Somehow, it always triggers an idea or two.

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  80. What a fabulous project. Each year I try and make a Christmas decoration to go on the tree = this always inspires me ages before Christmas. Also, I start to burn Christmassy fragranced candles.

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  81. Holidayz means traveling and I really do my planning in advance.. I also think of giftz.. I love giving gifts to my friends and dear once.. This is my first year of paper crafting and I'm enjoying tag making in the first part of my holidayz.. I am traveling with my husband and friends with their family during christmas..

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  82. I'm thrilled that Tim sent me to your blog. How lucky am I! I love the steps you included detailing the not so obvious parts of your house/book shelf. Very creative use of "stuff". Thanks for the inspiration. I will be back to continue the journey. THANKS TIM! To get me into the holiday spirit, I watch A Wonderful Life.

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  83. It helps me to get inspired if I can go at it early in the season. Get the live tree decorated, pull out my Shiny Brite collection and play the Christmas songs. I really like your project and would love to win it!

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  84. My inspiration is definitely decorating and baking. This year it was all about card making, I started back with some girlfriends in September!

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  85. Oh my goodness...this is adorable! I have got to make one of these after the holidays. I have too many irons in the fire to start another project. lol I feel inspired when it turns cooler. It's as if I get springs in my feet. Christmas music in the stores early doesn't bother me a bit. I feel inspired hearing it. I also get inspired by the so many very talented people that post on facebook and you tube. The project you posted inspires me. It doesn't take much for me to feel inspiration. :-)

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  86. This is so pretty and so clever!
    I just love it!
    I have one of those bottle brush trees somewhere! I was wondering what I could do with it! Now I know that you can give them haircuts.

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  87. I just need a little music to get inspiration. Thanks for sharing

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  88. I like to go to stores and see how they've decorated...I get so many ideas that way!

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  89. OK, this is my second project of the new year! Dangitall, 2012 isn't even here yet and it's filling up quick with GypsyGirl projects! These would make such cute and unique gifts.

    I get inspired by working on my Christmas cards and gifts. I generally start in late August and by the time the end of Nov is here, I'm done with projects and ready to start decorating. Listening to Christmas music while I'm working on Christmas schtuff helps get me in the mood too!

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  90. Big smile... Our first home was a rowhouse in Allentown, PA... This Christmas you have been a big inspiration. I am new to blogs; my niece told me about pinterest and that
    is how I found you.
    Your junk drawer advent tags have inspired me to do a set
    for my mother. I am new to altered art and scrapbooking. So
    tutorials are great. I definitely like making something from what I have on hand. My brain definitely gets tickled by the problem solving and creativity. My advent tags are bright and made
    with a stash of Christmas items that are old and not so old. I have used a lot of hand made papers from Dick Blick because that was in my stash, as well as old photos, sheet music, and book pages.
    So thanks so very much!

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  91. Ah, Christmas music and eggnog! Love this sweet project and really appreciate the step by step photos, thanks!

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  92. The internet has so many inspirational sites for me. Blogs like this one and Pinterest are at the top!

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  93. Pinterest is a great place to visit...then there are a few blogs I read which inspire me(Such as Your's!)

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  94. I get inspired from things that I happen to run across. Like one year at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando, they had wrapped all the tall palm tree trunks with white lights and extended green lights out to each palm leaf. It look absolutely fabulous so I tried the same look on two large sago palms at the entrance of my driveway. That led to a whole Christmas Florida theme where I made 5 life size pink flamingos in various stances out of plywood. Painted the plywood with pink flamingo paint and drilled holes around the outline of the image and added christmas lights. Those were placed along the front of the house. Later I made out of plywood a life size palm tree to go with the birds. But I didn't stop there. I happen to find Caribbean Christmas music, so as you drove by my house, not only could you see the Florida Christmas lights, you could hear music to add to the total Florida theme.

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  95. blogs like yours get me inspired for the holidays.. my daughter made felt wreaths based off instructions we found via pinterest...

    thanks for always sharing..

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  96. Eggnog really gets me going and getting a load of fresh Xmas tree cuttings from the Xmas tree places who just give away the trimmings. I decorate everywhere with them including a garland around my front door....smells wonderful!
    Love your little village...it's so neat when something like that paper inspires a whole project...great job...I'd have trouble parting with it too!

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  97. To my my daughter inspires me and this ome from the heart are family consists of me, my 11yr old daughter, she is sometime the mom and I am sometimes stuck in the past, we just recently moved in with our only 2 family members ole mom and dad what I do wirh out them lol , crafting inspires me it has been such therapy for me and people like you who have sites we can come and create :)

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  98. inspired by Christmas CD's, a Max Lucado book on Jesus, smells of pine, and focusing on the Reason for the Season. Thanks for your inspiration!

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  99. I've been wondering what to do with this die. Love this idea. Projects like this inspire me. I love looking at what others do and creating my own spin on it.

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  100. I love the Christmas music and lights. Just gets me in the mood to watch Charlie Brown. Love Christmas!!!
    Denise C.

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  101. The first thing i do is soak my fruit for my christmas cake and then i start to make a few cards and some new deco's for the tree and then i know that christmas is just around the corner..gotta love christmas xxxx

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  102. I just discovered your website thanks to Tim Holtz. I just LOVE IT!!! Put you in my favorites right away!!

    I get inspired for the holidays by working on my homemade Christmas cards. After my cards I work on ornaments for my son. He always cuts down a humongous tree and is always in need of more ornaments. If I decide to make some home made gifts, I work on those too. This keeps me in the mood right up until Christmas Day!!

    Thanks for the WONDERFUL inspiration you give to all your followers. You are a creative genius!!

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  103. Our Christmas tree goes up the day after Thanksgiving. Once that happens the inspiration is on. Christmas music as well as Tim's12 Tags further the inspiration!

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  104. For me it is the music. Once I start signing thats it,It is Christmas. The music brings back all Christmas past, bringing smiles,warm feeling and sometimes tears. The music has been playing since Dec.1st. And I believe this will be very good Christmas

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  105. Another great tutorial! Coming up with creative pretty things to give as gifts gets me inspired. All the great blogs really help to get me going too.

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  106. Oh my goodness...this is darling! Blogs like yours get me inspired!!!

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  107. WOW What a great idea for those old files!! I have my grandfathers vintage records and can't bear to part with them but can incorporate them into something that I can look at every day!! Thank you so much!!! I knew I'd find something to do with them!

    Patti Hartman,
    Ft. Collins, CO

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  108. Thanks for such a great tutorial. So much goodness in one post!!!!! My inspiration for the holidays is twinkling lights. All the lights are off except for the the trees. The way the lights reflect off of ornaments, the ceiling, the windows, oh, it is pure magic for me!

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  109. Oh, I LOVE breath of heaven!! I just love everything y'all make!! I get inspired for Christmas bt listening to lots and lots of Christmas music and, snuggling with my kids and reading Christmas books.

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  110. To get myself inspired for the holidays I like to look at blogs and the magazines stacked by my recliner.
    Would love to make this as a present. Getting ready to do a top on a small table with yardsticks, this would look great on top of it. Hot look right now.
    Thanks for the inspiration!

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  111. What a great project! Checking out other people's ideas, including friend's, and then laying out my newest papers inspires me to create. Some Christmas paper arrived today and you've given me a new idea. Thanks!

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  112. I love Christmas so I don't think I need to get inspired but I do get itching for new Christmas craft stuff right after Summer CHA... You see all the photos of new stuff and I suddenly have a "I have to have it" moment! Then I start putting up my first Christmas Tree right after Halloween and that really puts me into full gear!

    I really love the little door and the fake earring hardware that you used... I have to remember that little trick!

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  113. I rarely add comments, but this is time #2. Your small houses and ruler are just wonderful. I really enjoy your tutorials. Thank you for your inspirations.
    Happy holidays.

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  114. opening the Christmas music files on the ipod and turning on the tunes. being surrounded by all the joyful music does it every time. "Stars are Bright" is an absolute treasure. my fingers are crossed that i might have the lucky number.

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  115. i love this piece...it would go so nicely with my unfinished village and unfinished advent calender...LOL...actually as soon as my house is completely decorated (start Thanksgiving week and finish with the tree the first Saturday in December) I am inspired...start baking, menu planning, shopping, entertaining...and crafting of course...ok, i craft everyday of the year, but crafting with a Christmas theme...am lovin' these posts...thanks ladies!

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  116. Hi 2gypsies

    First of all let me say that I am so glad that Tim holtz mentioned your blog! It is now on my favorites list. I just discovered it yesterday & was blown away. I am absolutely smitten with your houses --right down to the earring back cum door knob. Too clever!!

    What gets me in the mood for Christmas? Handel's Messiah. It is such beautiful music. The other is a walk in the snow at night with the moonlight reflected off the snow. It's magical.

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  117. You are so very talented!! I am also glad that t!m sent all of us to you!!!! I watch Christmas movies & listen to Christmas songs to get in the Holiday Spirit!!! Thank you for a chance to win, also for the step-by-step tutorial!!! Merry. Merry!!!
    debpaint16@aol.com

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  118. First, I know Leslie from Dallas too and I am lucky enough to have a few of those pages myself. She is an awesome person.
    And like Leslie, my inspiration comes from my friends and family. I love looking around me and seeing the cool ideas they have and the traditions they bring to the family. Christmas is all about the fun and the people anyway. Thanks for such a cool idea!

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  119. OMG....... I JUST LOVE THIS ALONG WITH YOUR OTHERS......... I have the embellishments from when 7 gypsies started along with their book.......... You guys are just awesome....... Happy holidays.......

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  120. Snow is my greatest inspiration. It makes me feel like winter and then also winter means Christmas.

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  121. To get into the Christmas mood, I play my Christmas CDs and love watching the Christmas movies even if I have seen them before. I love the neat and close up instructions. The two girls reminds me of my sister and I. We were 21 months apart so we were best friends. Margaret S.

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  122. Again, so adorable!!!! my inspiration is listening to old Christmas music from the rat pack era. thanks!

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  123. What inspires me -- the look and excitement on the faces of our grandchildren, Christmas music, time with friends, and decorating the tree.

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  124. What a delightful project! The Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade is my inspiration starting point. I'm like a little kid and the Christmas excitement is in full force from that moment on. Thankfully bloggers like you give me so much inspiration for related projects and I keep a notebook of ideas. All year long I work on gifts and Christmas decor, so by the time I'm making cinnamon rolls and cookies in December, I'm bursting with excitement to spend the holidays with family and friends.

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  125. Love it..especially how you repurposed that old earring!!!!
    To get 'inspired' for the holidays I turn on the Christmas music and begin to make gifts for family and friends.

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  126. Love the project. I am always looking for fun and interesting art. To get motivated I turn up the tunes on my Ipod and I can crank out projects left and right LOL.

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  127. What a wonderful little row of houses for Christmas! My inspiration comes from reading blogs like One Lucky Day an a few others. Always gets me in the mood to try my hand at the marvelous ideas shown!

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  128. Lovely demo!Adorable! Thank you! My inspiration comes from other bloggers as well. Your blog is wonderful. I also watch tutorials from crafters and artists alike on Youtube. Pinterest is getting VERY addicting. Check it out! Much inspiration there!!!! I can never get enough!

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  129. Your project for today is just fantastic! I get inspired for the holidays by going to a little town called Waynesville in Ohio. In October, they have a saurkraut festival and it is full of holiday crafts and then the first weekend of December they have Christmas in Waynesville and it is just beautiful. Working in retail, the season is so commercialized that the true reason is lost and this little town helps me revive my spirit.
    Michael

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  130. I wish I was a fly on the wall in your studio! I love the little houses and the yardstick. I'll never pass up another one at a flea market again!
    A trip to a Jim Thorpe, PA gets me inspired at Christmas time. All the shops are decorated inside and out and it gets me in the spirit!!!

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  131. Such a neat tutorial, thank you for all the cool ideas. I love all the vintage items incorporated into this project.

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  132. Our family goes grocery shopping and donates food and clothing to our local food pantries...Then, we decorate our home inside and out in a classic way. Christmas music and
    baking is a holiday tradition!
    Many thanks, Cindi
    jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

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  133. Awesome tutorial - thank you!
    Trim the tree while playing Christmas carols - that always gets me inspired for the holidays :)

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  134. i absolutely love your project. the way i get inspired is to look at different blogs like crafty ones and home decorating ones. it sparks my creativity.

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  135. This project is lovely!! Your gift to us is sharing it as an inspiration, not to mention the great tutorial. You shouldn't have to send it away, though I would be delighted to have it. I get in the Christmas spirit by getting out my favorite Christmas CD's, pulling out some tags, stamps, inks, glue, ribbons, etc., to play with, and singing along with the music (not necessarily in tune).

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  136. Around the end of November/beginning of December I make my annual trek to the Garden Centre. I put on my winter coat, scarf and boots and walk down the path - it's about a 45 minute walk but I don't mind.

    The garden centre has many different trees all decorated differently with a specific theme. The friendly staff welcome you at the door with a lovely hot apple cider that feels so warm and thick as it coats your throat going down.

    There are quiet Christmas Carols playing in the background - like angels are singing specifically for you.

    I find our annual new Christmas decoration for our tree. It's usually a Victorian one although recently I've been toying with the more modern, funky style. Somehow they all work together.

    Before paying and leaving, I find the 'cold room' where all of the real Christmas trees are kept. The smell is just breath taking.

    Time to go home with my package in hand. I'm now ready to pull out the tree. My new decoration is ready to join those from years past. A new Christmas is here!

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  137. May I just say that you are brilliant & I'm thrilled that Tim shined us on to you...love your creativity & am crazy about that piece! To get inspired for the Holidays, I play LOTS of Christmas music, have twinkle lights everywhere & get in touch with friends...love sending Christmas cards & made my own this year!

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  138. I like to start making my Christmas cards early in December. I sort through my Christmas stash in November to start getting ideas of what I would like to make. I love your ingenuity. Your project made me smile. Thanks. Karen :)

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  139. i put on "the bishop's wife". as soon as i hear that first bit of music i'm hooked. i get all tingly and happy - it's the all time best christmas movie. oh and i'm talkin' the original with cary grant and david niven, not the wanky remakes.

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  140. Love your projects,,,,the details are wonderful. Family keeps me inspired all year long. I save ideas and actually start planning for next year before this Christmas is over. I hit the after Christmas sales for great bargains for next year's decor. Christmas music right after Thanksgiving is a must. One of my favorites...Mary Did You Know

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  141. I love this project - thanks for sharing;-)

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  142. I get my inspiration by floting around the web, hopping from blog to blog and seeing all the beautiful artwork that is out there! Or typing words into google and looking at the images that pop up.

    Your project today is absolutely GORGEOUS!! thanks for YOUR inspiration.

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  143. You are amazing! I love everything you make. I am dying over this project though. WOW! Thank you for sharing. You are so inspiring. Crystal

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  144. Oh. My. Goodness. That is a stunning creation. I've been oohing & aahing over every detail. The tree - SO cool!!! I'm another who found you via Tim & boy, am I thankful for that!
    My way in to the Christmas spirit is to dance around my kitchen singing Christmas songs - no, there is NO video evidence :) - and watch all the movies on the 24 hour Christmas movies channel. And yes, I usually cry at the happy endings.

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  145. I love how you made the Christmas tree! I get inspired for the holidays by looking at some of my favorite blogs and seeing what they are making for the holidays.

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  146. I sprinkle balsam fir essential oil over all the dog's beds (5 of 'em!) and over a salt incense burner and play Christmas music on Pandora!

    edie

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  147. Motivation for Christmas for me comes from the children. My granddaughter lives with me and she delights in the lights. The faster I can get them up the better.

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  148. WOw, awesome project!!! Love it.
    I get inspired for Christmas bij the 12 tags of Tim, your blog and Christmas music!

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  149. I get my inspiration from the web and from magazines and books.

    Love your project. Thanks for sharing.

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  150. Love this project and my favorite so far! Thanks for sharing your art.

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  151. What a wonderful blog you have here. Its places like yours where I get some of my inspiration for the Christmas season. Other ideas usually come into my head at 3.oo in the morning when I would rahter be sleeping!!!!

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  152. I like to go out to all the stores early and see how they are decorating and try and get some inspiration for my own home decoratons. I like to try and make as many of the decorations as I can. I also LOVE to peruse the internet for great decorating, baking and gift giving ideas. What a BEAUTIFUL project you have made. I can't believe all the details! LOVE DETAILS!! Thanks for sharing with all of us! :D

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  153. What a fantastic project! Please put me down on the "good girl list"!
    What do I do to get inspired for Christmas???? Hot pot of coffee, snow on the ground and me up in my stamp room with my Husband shutting the door behind him....ah, he's so supportive of my crafting addiction!

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  154. I love your creation, and EVERY LITTLE THING about it. Who knew earrings could be SO versatile!
    To get inspired for the Holidays, I pick a day (hopefully a cold white-gray cloudy one so I can wear my Festive winter woolies), go to the most boutique-iest little town (or area of town), grab a thermos of spiced cider or Cocoa (or buy it there) and just Christmas shop, look at the decorations and window fronts, while listening to Holiday music. Ahhhhh... a simple laid-back, relaxing, festive day.

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  155. Your village is quite lovely. The glitter covered tree, the door that opens, showing a face - all in the details, Tim would say.

    My bible study reads about the birth of Jesus in Matthew and Luke and how the shepherds and Magi heard about him, then spread word. Happy Birthday Jesus. I enjoy spending time with my family this month before Christmas day when we open gifts we give to each other. We will have a birthday cake for Jesus on Christmas day too. It is a tradition.

    Thanks for showing us your work. Lots of steps go into it, but such beautiful work you produce. Thank you.

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  156. To get inspired for Christmas I crochet. Yes, I crochet my little heart out, making scarves, hats, dishrags, etc. until I have quite a pile of homemade warm goodness to give for gifts. Making my Christmas cards while listening to Christmas music helps too.

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  157. I just can't believe how cool I think this project is! LOVE how you used the broken earring back as the door handle. LOVE IT!!! Too cool! Lynn B

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  158. There's a radio station that plays all Christmas music starting in mid-November. It gets me inspired and "in the mood."

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  159. Great Project! I love it! My inspiration comes from all of the great people like yourself that are so great about sharing awesome projects on their blogs!

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  160. i am absolutely in love with this project.. i so need to stop at the hardward store and make one of these for my friend for Christmas!! thank you!!
    get inspired. this year it has been rough.. 12 tags usually do it for me but this year.. not so much. so i started browsing the internet to cheer me up and found some fanastic ideas for ornaments and gifts.. seeing the giving and tutorials and ideas.. totally cheered me up!! 'YOU' all inspire me

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  161. Super project! They always are. My inspiration comes from blogs, videos, magazines & classes at my LSS. Of course, Christmas music is playing in my overly decorated apartment, too. thanks for all your fab ideas!

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  162. Oh goodness me... I can't think about being inspired for the holidays I just saw all your 'Gypsy' titled books in the background and seeing as it's been my name since birth I am so totally gobsmacked, delighted and a little bit jealous.

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  163. Sweet project today!! It tells a story as you move along the measure!! Unique and lovely! Christmas spirit comes as I unwrap the collected decorations and find treasures the kids have crafted or other special momentos from years past,recalling family gatherings. Also love to visit blogs such as yours!!

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  164. Christmas cards inspire me...whether they are store bought or home made, I love reaching out to friends with little notes, photographs and love and happiness.

    Love your 'village', it's beautiful!

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  165. I'm not that familiar with 7gypsies but I am loving what your doing with the stuff!
    To get in the mood I play Christmas music. It inspires me when our weather does not. :)

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  166. This project is AWESOME!!!
    I play Xmas music to get me in the Chritmas mood as well as bake loads of sweet treats!

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  167. I must thank Tim Holtz for posting a link to your blog. It's absolutely full of inspiration for Christmas! So you ask where my inspiration comes from to get ready for the holidays? The answer is blogs like yours!!!! Thanks for sharing your fabulous ideas with us!!

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  168. I LOVE this project! I'm constantly amazed at your creativity. My best inspiration for the holidays are my grandchildren. I think about what they'll remember about Grandma's house at Christmas time, so I want to make sure they have great memories.

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  169. Christmas music always gets me started, and I like shopping for an "adopted family" or planning food baskets for a local church or charity...

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  170. What a fun project. A great way to recycle items! I love Amy Grant and that song is a beatiful one.

    As far as what gets me in the mood for Christmas...cold weather, hot chocolate and looking at Christmas lights.

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  171. Just having the tree up and decorated gets me inspired!

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  172. Inspiration for the Holidays for me is all tied up in my family. When I think of my children, and their children, eyes bright, smiles wide, I am truly inspired to create, decorate, bake and plan. I love Christmas!

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  173. I'm referred by Tim and Ooh, loving this project of yours, I love vintage looking stuff! I love visiting blogs for inspiration, and times, shopping catalogs too.

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  174. Love this project - I love using found objects & stuff you already have to make something wonderful.

    As to your question: Who needs inspiration for the holidays? Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year, it's inspiring all by itself. The best things are having your family with you & sharing the love & joy of the holiday. Our favorite tradition is decorating the tree together: we put on Christmas music, pour a little eggnog, dance around a bit, and reminisce about the old ornaments all the memories they evoke.

    Thanks for lettiing us share. Merry Christmas to you!

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  175. Love the project! Beautiful!
    I get inspired from ads, looking at all the beautiful decorations and love listening to Christmas Music, it gets me all warm and fuzzy!

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  176. OMG this is so cute and so creative!!! Filing it away for next year!!

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  177. Christmas music is great for setting the mood. This year, i've been finding so much inspiration on blogs and Pinterest!

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  178. Your house project is very unique. To get inspired, all I have to do is visit the blogs of my favorite designers and scrapbook, stamping companies.

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  179. I have quite a few of these chip board houses ... and know I know what I can do with them .... I have wonderful old pics of my mother (from Spain) and I will incorporate her into the village ..... all of the old photos that I have of my family are so dear to me .... what a wonderful way to display them .... using your creative ideas and my photographs ..... Thank You for the inspiration ..... Annie Lou Ricci

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  180. I love Judy Garland singing "Have yourself a merry little Christmas" in Meet Me in St. Louis and "Santa Baby". They are very different songs, but both speak to my Christmas spirit.
    The Stars Are Bright assemblage is lovely... I can almost picture a version with Judy's movie family on their St. Louis mantel.

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