Crafts – Page 3 – Rockland NY Mom

DIY Photo-Backdrops Easter/Spring

Posted on March 22, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, March of Dimes, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed .

Originally for the Rockland Mommies Easter Egg Hunt this year we wanted one of our awesome photographers from the directory to come and book some mini-sessions so that people could have some beautiful photos done while there. Unfortunately, no one could make it. We still wanted to have opportunities for people to commemorate the day with some great photos so we put our heads together.

The outcome were 5 cool different DIY Photo Backdrops that we put together (most of it came from my very own house). The photos we caught were adorable and everyone was happy.

Backdrop 1: Classic Eggs

I had a piece of wainscoting left over from my bathroom remodel that we strung some plastic eggs on, threw my sons rocking chair in front as well as some extra large eggs (Michaels) and a stuffed bunny.

Backdrop 2: The “Egg Hunt”

We loved the natural look of the “reeds” by the water and wanted to accentuate them a bit, so we added some eggs, and some more little decorations, a basket to play with and a banner (being held with garden stakes).

Backdrop 3: The Picture Frame

I adore painting and refinishing pieces and frames are one of the things I am always working on. I had this GIANT frame that a friend gave me to paint a little while ago and I haven’t gotten to it yet, so we made it into a little photo prop. Hung from a tree (with twine) we added a banner to it, and then had a basket with Easter props (thanks ASH). Some silk flowers on the ground gave it a little character.

Backdrop 4: The Pallet

I had seen this adorable setup on Pinterest, and then an adorable backdrop on some photography website I look at from time to time, and decided to combine the two. Mary (from Underground Finds and Furniture) was happy to supply paint to make it happen. The addition of a banner and some flowers (from my awesome helpers) made it just perfect!!!

RNYM Valentines 2016- DINO-Mite!

Posted on February 5, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Valentines Day .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

It’s that time of year again!!! Valentine’s Day! I do like the idea of having kids express emotions to one another and its nice to see everyone participate. I have never been a huge fan of sending in 1,000 candy items, so the new shift to “no food” Valentine’s is not a problem for me. Last year (A) was really into Hot Wheels Cars (well, he still is but I can’t do the same Valentine every year) so we did a great little card that came with a car (See post).

This year is (E)’s first year exchanging too so I was trying to think of two different ones. Then it dawned on me, why not do one they both love?! DINOSAURS!

A quick internet search gave me plenty of ideas and sayings to work from so I whipped up 4 different versions on publisher.

To print your own, click here: 2016 Valentines

I ALWAYS have cardstock in the house so we chose some colors (E) of course chose pink (she always does) and (A) couldn’t decide so we made several.

I ordered a multi-pack of dinos from Amazon because I couldn’t find a pack that I was happy with in the stores.

To purchase this pack: Click here

We used the opportunity to practice writing their names.

I wanted the kids to be able to play with the dinos, so the plan was 2 per child and we hot glued them to the sheet (its so easy to peel off so they can play).

Viola! A quick, easy and cute No-Food Valentine!

Free Paint with Underground Finds & Furniture! -Review

Posted on January 13, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Crafts, Events, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as I was invited to a class at Underground Finds and Furniture. All opinions expressed are my own.

I love to craft. That’s no secret. I will try pretty much any craft once. I have taken the kids to a myriad of different crafting events. They really enjoy them as well, and I love the time we get to spend together being creative, and making memories. This past weekend Mary of Underground Finds and Furniture held her first in house crafting class. In this format Mary can share the techniques that she has learned when she first started her shop. This low cost class was a real blast for myself and for the kids. Mary shared different techniques and some really fantastic supplies with us while we were there.

I must disclose. This was NOT a typical crafting class. There were crafts and there was fun, but the laid back atmosphere made it that much more enjoyable. I used to take the kids to the Home Depot Kids workshops all the time because I like their vibe. They gave you a project with a general idea, and left paint so you could create in your own way. This class reminded me of that, but cooler because I was learning cool new techniques too.

The event was created a little over a month ago and sign-up filled quickly. Upon arrival you could see that Mary was prepared and excited. There was a little table in the adjoining room with some (healthy) snacks and water on it so that if people got hungry or needed a break they could take one. The Crafting room had a large table with chalk paint in the center (so many great colors it was like an all you can craft buffet!). There were plaques that we could make into signs with either a meaningful quote or a picture or both, AND she had boxes as well as blocks that the kids could paint as well.

Mary explained the project and had people pick their items to work on. She then told us about the two different techniques that we could use with her silhouette machine. I chose to do the relief technique for both of the kids projects. (A) decided to use a Star Wars Quote, and I wanted to make a sign for (E) that said “Always kiss me goodnight” for her new room.

The project was kicked up a notch when Mary also mentioned that she had “Glow in the Dark” spray paint. (A) was enthralled. He ended up using the paint on all 3 of his projects.

First we painted a base layer on both projects.

On (A)’s he then spray pained the glow in the dark. (E)’s got a blend of colors that are being used in her “shabby chic” bedroom.

Then we used the computer to plan out the sizes, fonts and graphics for the boards.

Once dry we placed the words and graphics on the boards.

Another coat of paint, in another color, went on top.

The vinyl was removed to show the negative space.

I then sanded and waxed ( I really like that look).

(A) is obsessed with the fact this his glows :o)

Here are the finished products!!!

The kids also worked on painting boxes which they are using around the house to store their “treasures”.

Mary’s next workshop is taking place on February 21st and will be making photo boards with a picture, a wooden board, chalk paint and some modge podge. The cost is $10 a person (for supplies) and the class is limited to 10 students. To register email: MDM441@gmail.com by 2/14/16.

Painting Sweet Dreams

Posted on January 11, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Good Cause, Playroom Project, RNYM's Picks, Services, Specialty Items .

Disclosure: All opinions expressed are my own.

In our travels we came across Sabrina Crowley who makes the dreams of little children come true in their special spaces (bedroom, playroom). She is a muralist. In fact, she makes the dreams of grownups come true too. She can paint anything, and make it exactly what you imagined it could be. This is especially cool for people like me, I have awesome ideas, but was not blessed with artistic talent. Here is her story.

My name is Sabrina Crowley and I am a muralist. I just love what I do! There is nothing more exciting then seeing smiling faces on parents and children as they see their room come to life!

I became a muralist when I decided to leave my 15yr fashion design career behind to stay home with my young children, one of which has some severe health issues. It was time for me to be a full time mommy. I soon realized being creative was something I couldn’t live without. I started by painting murals in my children’s rooms, even my 4 year old helped!

I have been an artist all my life. I made my first pair of MC hammer pants in 6th grade, that sewing machine had me at hello. I spent time making crafts such as soaps and candles, quilts and more throughout my high school and college years. I worked many craft shows and street fairs. It was a lot of fun. I graduated from FIT and my fashion career took off. It was amazing, I worked for some really great companies and was really able to spread my creative wings.

Now I paint murals full time. Every room is different and every family has been amazing to work with.

The process is simple. We discuss what you are interested in and I make a trip to your house for a free consult. I sketch up and idea of what room will look like and we proceed from there. I try to accommodate as best I can, as I only paint 2 days a week. I spend about 10-12 hours on each room! I am in and out in two days and quiet as a mouse! You won’t know I’m there…so I’ve heard!

So if your looking to create a fun new space for your little one?

Here are some excellent examples of Sabrina’s work.

For more information, check out https://www.facebook.com/Sabrinasmurals/

Holly Hand-Print Ornaments- 2015

Posted on December 15, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

We ALWAYS make an ornament. We keep one and then give one to each of the grandparents. I ALWAYS incorporate their hand, foot, or finger prints. Here is this years.

I had a lot to consider. I always want it to be different. Also, I have tried carefully to include skills that the kids need to work on for school into each of our “projects”. (A) hates writing so we have been working at home on pencil grip and increasing his endurance. One great way to do that is with clay.

Marvin brought a picture of what he wanted us to make, as well as the clay and ribbon for the project.

I wanted to liven it up a bit so instead of just one color, (A) got plain green and (E) had a glitter green.

Note: the glitter was much harder to work with and I’m not sure I would purchase it again. There is a Softening agent I learned after the fact which might have helped.

First I let the kiddies play with the clay to soften it up. Then we worked on rolling it out and tracing hands with a toothpick.

Once traced I cut the handprints out with a knife and placed them on the cookie sheet. I poked a hole in (A)’s hand before baking so that we could get the ribbon through at the end.

Sparkle and plain went on different sheets because one bakes longer than the other.

Once out and cooled we super glued the hands and berries in the design we wanted, looped through a ribbon and Viola!

Holly Handprint Ornaments!

Looking for more hand made ornaments? See ours from years past (click the date to see)!

2014

The years prior, I didn’t post “How to’s” but are pretty self explanatory, if you have a question, please ask, I will explain.

Here are the pictures:

2013

2012

Meet “Marvin” #myelfisgood

Posted on December 2, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Crafts, Day Trips, Good Cause, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

Disclosure: This post is unsponsored (a few linked post were invitations). All ideas expressed are my own.

Pretty much everything I do centers around my Elf on the Shelf “Marvin.” Although I think that the clever little jokes and situations that are so popular on Pinterest are cute, and I admire those with the creativity to come up with such ideas, I personally feel that it rewards and shows the kids that being mischievous or sneaky is ok. My reasoning? 1. It counteracts what I think the season is about which is giving, helping others, and family. 2. It gives my kids permission to make messes or play tricks, sends the message that these things are cute, acceptable. In my house it is not.

Instead, “Marvin” is truly Santa’s Helper. He brings messages from the big man himself. Each message reminds the kids to be KIND, SHARE, SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH FAMILY. Some messages are reminders, some come with tasks, others with gifts or “secret missions” to complete (they LOVE these). Every year these messages come on a different letterhead (which I download from the internet). I found this year’s free download here: http://yourgoldenticketblog.com/2013/12/santa-claus-stationary-free-printable/

Anything that I create and post here, please feel free to use. The purpose of this page is to help you out not to make your life more difficult. In fact, some people have loved what they saw me doing and asked for an email to detail it for them.

*each bullet that is purple links to a post about that item or links to where it can be purchased quickly and easily. Events or reviews will become purple as the year progresses and I link the new posting to this main page.

Events:

For a full listing of Holiday Events please visit our Holiday Post. Below is a selection of events (past and present) that we have or will be visiting with links to our reviews.

Cut your Own Tree!!! – This link is a list of great places you can go and cut your own tree. Many places have special attractions and activities as well! We just did our Holiday Photos with Kennedy Grace Photography at Emmerich Tree Farm in Warwick – Super Cute. We also have plans this season to visit Battenfield for their Sleigh rides and more! #RocklandNYMomTreeTime2015

Holiday Photos! This year we were lucky enough to have photos done with Kennedy Grace this year!!! Stay tuned there are more awesome sessions coming!!!

The Royal Christmas Spectacular on December 6, 2015 features Captain Hook, Peter Pan, Elsa, Anna, Belle, Ariel, Mrs. Claus and Santa! Don’t miss this amazing event! $30 per adult, $35 per child. Family of four discounted package available! www.glamourpartyplanner.com/store for ticket information!

Books

Movies

Give Backs (Missions from Santa)

Santa Sac
Toys for Tots
“Adopting a Child”
Shopping with St. Jude
Letter to Santa (mailed at Macys)

Activities (Crafts etc.)

Make our Ornament– AC Moore and Michaels
Color an ornament- Local Grocery Store
Paint a Santa Train- Christmas Tree Shops
Make Cookies
Make a Gingerbread House – We got ours at Bed Bath and Beyond this year (used our 20% off). Click the link to see what they have to offer.

Past Trips

Storytime with Mrs. Claus
The Metro Museum Train Show
Pictures with Santa CLAWS – Read Last Year’s Post and watch for this years updated version!
Polar Express Train Ride
The Dreamworks North Pole Adventure (Ridge Hill Mall)
Holiday Train Show NYBG
Santa Paws
Santa Trolley
Santa Train

Gifts

Pajamas
Advent Calendar
Ornament Made From Christmas Card on Shutterfly – I simply scan and upload our yearly Christmas card and put it on this adorable pewter ornament.
Felt Wall Tree

Mornings On the Farm

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts, Day Trips, Day Trips, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are those of Ashley our writer.

Circle on the farm is located right off 303 on Greenbush road (behind the old U-Delco) on the property of Bell-Ans Farm.

I was graciously invited by Rachael to join her for ‘Mornings on the Farm.’ A 2 ½ hour ‘class’ (I hesitate to call it a class) of creativity and exploration for kids and their parents/caregiver. Of course, my first thought its 2 ½ hours?! How will the boys be focused for that long?

Rachael works and volunteers in Recreational and Creative Arts Therapy. She studied Fine Art and is working towards her Masters in Creative Arts Therapy. She believes that busy hands lead to an open heart and and open mind. She is UNBELIEVABLE. Her patience, and warmth is something special. She welcomes you into the studio with such warmth and true joy to have you there for the morning.

We arrived on time to a welcoming smile from Rachael. The studio is full of wonderfully mismatched chairs and colors, that all seems to match. She instantly encouraged (W) and (S) to explore to their liking and offered me coffee, tea and water to enjoy while I sat on the couch waiting for others to arrive. There is an adorable play nook set up under the staircase with basic blocks, toy kitchen and a few trucks that instantly drew the boys in.

As the other families trickled in conversation was easily made and everyone was so happy to meet each other. It was a first class for many, so it was nice to experience the class amongst other first timers.

Racheal began to set up the art project. Our project for the day was making a Stand Glass Window frame to hang. She explained several different ideas how to complete the project, but ultimately it was a free for all. She encouraged the kids to participate, but did not force. If the children were un-inspired with the project, they were free to play and roam about the studio while the parents created.

She came over to the boys and poured glue all over a glass 8×11 frame. She then let the boys choose colors and dropped dots of food coloring in the glue, gave the boys popsicle sticks and let them create as they pleased. The boys had a blast swirling the colors, and making a wonderful mess. She also had plates of beads to add to the glue if they wanted. The boys finished and moved back to the play nook again.

The kids would again start to wander back to the table interested in what the adults and other kids were up to. She could see the interest peaking in those little minds, and offered another project of painting – paper, mason jars, tiles. She was full of fun ideas! There was never a moment of “let’s stop and clean up” or “Don’t do it that way”, Rachael watched the project flow letting the children and adults create as they felt inspired.

(S) working hard on his stained glass. Choosing the perfect stones to add.

As everyone finished their glass, and paintings she offered to make snack! Fresh popped popcorn and delicious berry smoothies. Two of the boys favorites!

(W) enjoying his smoothie!

Rachael saw those little legs getting antsy so she grabbed a bucket of birdseed, a head of lettuce and we headed out for a walk around the farm. The kids got to feed the chickens, peacocks, guinea foul, pigs and goats! The morning wrapped with a fun game of ring around the rosy on the large lawn of the farm. I couldn’t believe it was already time to go!

(W) Feeding the goats.

The boys insisted on hanging their beautiful projects in their playroom so everyone who comes over to play can see them!

Mornings on the Farm is unlike any other “mommy and me class” I have experienced. The mood is calm, and free flowing. The ‘class’ was relaxing, as if I were at a playdate at a friends house.
The boys and I are BEYOND excited to visit another morning.

Rachael along with her partners Jayme and Lauren created this amazing space for creativity and growth at Circle on the Farm with offerings not only for children, but for adults as well, yeah we will go check that out too ;o). Please check out CirlceontheFarm.com or their Facebook page for upcoming events.

https://www.facebook.com/circleonthefarm/?fref=ts

Check here for the schedule of their offerings.
http://www.circleonthefarm.com/#!calendar/c22g5

Truly Wonderful the Mind of a Child is….

Posted on October 28, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Someone very special to us is having a baby. Its her second and we wanted to do something special for her sprinkle. Their family happens to also be big fans of Star Wars… so we got to brainstorming…

We decided to help decorate the nursery with something made by all four of us…. (A) chose favorite characters and we were on our way….

Firstly we needed an appropriate Star Wars Quote. Those considered were:

“Judge me by my size do you?”
“The force is strong with this one.”
“Truly wonderful the mind of a child is”

Numbers one and two seemed too cliché for us so we went with number 3.

OF COURSE we wanted to incorporate our handprints into it so here it is.

I painted the wood board which was purchased at AC Moore dark blue, and then covered it in white chalk paint. Once painted I sanded it so that some of the blue would come through.

I then added the wording. I don’t love my handwriting so I opted to use stickers that I found at Michaels and thought looked similar to the lettering from Star Wars.

Then we painted. (A) got to paint everyone’s hand the appropriate colors and put them onto the board.

Once all the handprints were in place, I added a few details, and wrote our names near each of our characters.

Here is the final product!!! WE really hope that they love it!!!!

First Day T-shirt Craft

Posted on September 17, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Specialty Items, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Like all other parents, the first day of school holds special significance for me. It’s a sign of growth, of the passing of time, and like with everything else I try to make it very memorable. You may have seen the chalkboard signs I created… but I just HAD to do one more thing. That’s when the t-shirt idea became real. I have a great friend (Christine Hennessey) who has a machine that will cut iron-ons for you. I asked and she came through like a champ.

Firstly, before I continue, you can contact Christina and she will make you some for a reasonable fee (she has to cover her material costs). Her email is angelwings1276@verizon.net. Just let her know what year your child(ren) will graduate and which years you need for the handprints.

So I got the letters from Christina, and my t-shirts from Michaels with coupons.

I peeled back the cover from the iron-ons and then cut them into their individual parts.

I then placed them on the shirts to see where I wanted them. I re-spaced them a few times, while trying to imagine how big their hands would get.

Then I ironed with a pillow-case between the iron and the transfer. The silver needed 6 more seconds than the black to stay put. I decided to put the smallest and largest handprints on the front so you can really see the difference.

I purchased fabric paint at Michaels when I was there so I just used that to make their marks.

Here is the end result! I love them.

Here they are in action!!! What fabulous memories!!

Here are some photos of the chalkboard plaques in action too for those who missed it!!! I will take orders (very limited) for boards if you email me at RocklandNYMom@yahoo.com.

Back to School Photos Craft

Posted on August 22, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Photo Obsessed, Thoughts.. .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.

I started taking those first and last day photos of (A) last year and love it. I was making my Shutterfly album and was staring at the page of him that shows them next to each other. The only part of the photos that I hated was finding printables on the internet that had the correct year and or grade each time. I decided I needed to take matters into my own hands. I am a big fan of using the same props over and over again to show how the kids grow and change so I created something that was more permanent and could be reused.

The Shutterfly page that started it all.

After searching different ideas, I went to AC Moore where I browsed around and finally picked up the supplies I needed. The boards run about $14.00 but it’s much less if you bring your 40% coupon. I store paint pens in a plastic bag (up high) all the time, I simply had to add a few colors to my collection. I prefer the Sharpie brand, but they all work.

I painted each of the boards on the front and back using the black chalk paint.

Once dry I played around on my computer looking for fonts and graphics that I wanted to add to the project. I made them different according to their likes ((A) prefers math and reasoning while (E) really loves books). For those of you with a cricket machine etc, this project would be really cute and super fast.

I then cut out the pieces and arranged them on the boards to see how I liked them.

For the more difficult fonts, I traced them with a pen (which made marks in the board you can follow). I used the paint pens in different colors to make it permanent.

I did the same on the back for the Last Day of School using for both children a sun and water (they both really love swimming).

Final Products

I hope you enjoy and I look forward to sharing the pictures of the kids using them on the first day of school! As always don’t forget if you love our project you can “Pin” it!!!

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