Poppy Chic Designs

Black Swan Martini Tutu

2011-02-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

In honor of my favorite Oscar flick "Black Swan" I decided to serve cocktails dressed in a black tutu for the Oscars. Super fun right :) I plan on making these amazing white chocolate martinis and calling them "White Swan Martinis" so of course I felt the need to create the black swan tutu to go along with it!

Simply cut off about 12 inches of black tulle from a 6 inch roll (the kind they sell at the craft stores, usually in the bridal section), fold it over so it's now 3 inches by 12 inches, cut up and fringe about 1.5 inches about every inch to give it that "tutu" look, then stitch a running stitch along the top. Grab your glass, pull the stitch so it bunches up and tie it to secure it around your glass. I added a sparkly button with a few loose stitches...so fancy! You will be the hit of Oscar night with stylih tutu glass!

Refreshed...with games

2011-02-24T15:05:00.000-08:00

I've been MIA for a while here on my blog...I know. I guess I've been trying to figure out how to balance it all and give 100% to everything. Well turns out that's pretty hard! So I'm back now and totally refreshed :) I'm still rocking the retro glam coctail chic thing...and still loving it. However as a mom of 2 kids I've decided to also craft things for them, my boys could care less about hair flowers and flasks :) So I've been taking some time to do that and work it into my everyday work and crafting. I'll also be sharing a bunch of new ideas with you all...really fun stuff! First up a retro style wooden memory match game. I've been keeping one of these in my purse and my kids have been entertained time after time at doctors offices, restaurants, starbucks...

Super easy to make - 1 inch wooden discs, one inch images circles (just search etsy, there's a ton) a one inch paper punch and a little mod podge. Cut glue, seal...easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Martha Stewart - Craft of the Day

2011-01-20T17:52:00.000-08:00

Martha Stewart - Craft of the Day

I am in love.

Matryoshka Doll Necklace

2011-01-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

I just love these little russian dolls! Here's a fun tutorial to make a sweet little matryoshka necklace for yourself. All you need is shrinky dinks for the inkjet printer, a small hole punch and a necklace!

First find a cute doll and print it on the shrinky dink paper (just follow their directions) then cute it out...

Punch a hole for the jumpring...

Lay it between 2 pieces of paper (I used a lunch bag) and bake according to the directions. For me it was about 2 mins @ 300degrees

See how much it shrinks and thickens...

So fun and super easy!

New Years Eve Glam!

2010-12-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

Instead of wearing one of those awful tin foil looking tiaras this New Years Eve make yourself a quick glam hair accessory! The crafts stores have a fabulous selection of feathers and even some of these large feather pads lately. All you need is an old sparkly earring, a feather pad, a hair clips and some glue. Poke the earring through the feathers, bend the post over so it doesn't poke you and hot glue a hair clip or hair comb to the back! You can whip this up in no time and I guarantee you will be the best accessorized lady at the stroke of midnight!

Holiday Giveaway!

2010-12-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

What holiday wouldn't be better with a mustache necklace? Well I'm giving away this super cute handmade deep brown acrylic mustache necklace to one lucky person this week! Wear it around your neck then pop it above your lip and give yourself a fun "stache" at any given moment :) Comes on a 18 inch silver snake chain and it will be the hit of your holiday festivites. Leave a comment here or on my facebook page (or both for more chances) and let me know your favorite holiday party idea and one winner will be selected Sunday evening. Good luck!

Stache on a Stick...who knew!

2010-12-05T16:10:00.000-08:00

I clearly underestimated the popularity of a mustache on a stick. Last night I was set up at the Holiday Artist Market downtown and instead of having a candy treat at my table for the holiday festivites I decided to make a bunch of "Stache on a Stick" fun to giveaway. Well holy moly...the town went mustache crazy. I had heards of folks rushing my table asking if I was "the mustache girl" which was both cute and odd at the same time! Everyone wanted a free litttle stache and I was out of them 2 hours into the night :) Needless to say the world is a much funnier place when you're town is wearing mustaches on sticks all night long. What a blast, I think I may make it a regular thing at all craft shows.

And yes many folks also bought the flask to go along with the stache...next up necklaces!

Quick holiday gift idea!

2010-11-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

These adorable wine charms are sure to be a hit at your holiday parties. Imagine giving your friends these sweet little festive baubles to use during the season...they'll love them! All you need to do is find some cute little ball ornaments, beads, ribbon and hoop wires (earring section of the craft store) and there you have it! These charms are simple to make, cute as can be and a perfect last minute gift idea.

Handmade Pincushion Gifts

2010-11-12T05:51:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun holiday idea! I always try to think of new handmade gifts for my family and friends (they can only get so many flasks and retro flowers you know) and this year some of the lucky sewing girls will be receiving these little cupcake pincushions. They are a snap to make and look so sweet! Take some small bowls (these are from Pier 1 Imports), leftover scrap fabric or felt, a handfull of poly-fil stuffing and pretty ribbons and make your own cute little pincushions for your friends and family!

Easy Sweater Clip Tutorial

2010-11-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

I just adore the “Emma Pillsbury” look from the show “GLEE” and here’s a super simple way to make those fabulous vintage style sweater clips for yourself!

You’ll need – a pair of fabulous clip on earrings, approx 5 inches of chain and jewelry pliers

Step 1- Open up one end of the chain and attach it to the back of the clip on earring

Repeat with the other side

Here’s the back view

See…just like Emma!

Fall Shoe Clip Tutorial

2010-10-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

I love fall accessories and I want to share this super cute and easy wool shoe clip tutorial with you! These are fun for a fall night out and you can whip them up for cool Christmas presents too!

you'll need-

two strips of wool blend felt 5 in x 2 in

two strips of tulle 5 in x 2 in

two small strips of felt 1/2 in x 1 1/2 in

shoe clips (or clip on earring backs will work too)

hot glue

I know my friends love to dress up their tootsies so I'm making a bunch of these to give this season!

Channeling Emma Pillsbury...

2010-10-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

I am a gleek...but mostly just to see what Emma Pillsbury will be wearing every episode. I am in LOVE with her style and I am now adding some accessories to my shop which are totally inspired by her look!

I'm starting with sweater clips...omg how much do I love these. You can make your own super easy with a pair of clip on earrings and a little bit of chain but I am adding my fabulous fabric flowers and vintage rhinestone to the clips in my shop.

More Emma goodies to come!

Retro Lego Cufflink DIY

2010-10-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

Looking for a cool and unique gift for the men in your life this holiday season? Well here it is...retro lego cufflinks! You know your husband, dad, brother or boss most likely played with legos so this is a fun nostaligic gift to give :)

You'll need-

matching block lego pieces

cufflink blanks (search etsy in "supply" section, or check local craft store)

sturdy glue (gorilla glue is good)

little tin for gifting (I get these in the bridal section of craft store...they come in pack of 20)

This couldn't be easier...you kids can even do it!

See...perfect for the cool guy on your gift list!

New Favorite Martini

2010-10-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

Orange Creamsicle Martini

This DELICIOUS martini recipe comes from "The Hungry Girl" website. So many fun, tasty and easy recipes there...check it out!
Seriously tastes like a creamsicle...so yummy!

Ingredients:

4 oz. diet orange soda, room temperature

1.5 oz. orange-flavored vodka (like Smirnoff Twist of Orange) 

1.5 oz. Sugar Free Vanilla Syrup

1 tbsp. Cool Whip Free
Directions:

Place all ingredients in a martini shaker, but DO NOT shake (or the carbonated soda will explode!). Mix thoroughly with a spoon until mixture is mostly lump-free. Add about 1 cup ice (crushed, if you've got it), and stir until mixture is cold. Then place the strainer on top and pour into a large martini glass. Enjoy!

PER SERVING (entire recipe, 1 martini): 109 calories, 0g fat, 69mg sodium, 2.5g carbs, 0g fiber, 0.5g sugars, 0g protein -- POINTS® value 2*

Holiday Gift Set...

2010-09-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

10 cool retro gifts for under $90! I just listed a holiday gift set in my etsy shop that includes 5 vintage style damsk flasks and 5 matching steel money clips! They each come individually packaged for easy gifing. Just think how much your friends, family, co workers,or bridal party will love a cool retro present that is unique and useful! Even makes great host/hostess gifts during the holiday party season.

Whoopsie Winners!

2010-09-29T06:02:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Becki who loves a ruby slipper drink (and I'll need that recipe by the way) and Molly Spence who is torn between a dark and stormy or a cosmo! Email your addresses to me so I can send you your fabulous flasks! poppychic(at)comcast(dot)net

Next time I have another whoopsie I'll let you all know! Cheers :)

Whoopsie Giveaway!

2010-09-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

Whoopsie Giveaway! Being the perfectionist I am if it's not 100% perfect I will not sell it. But I'll give it away! I have 2 whoopsie 4oz retro flasks up for grabs...one retro owl girl flask and one pinstripe suit guy flask. (they each have a small crinkle in the acrylic...but only if you look super close) tell me your favorite cocktail below or on my facebook page and 2 winners will be chosen Wednesday!

Good Luck :)

DIY Martini Olive Hair Clip

2010-09-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for the perfect gift to make your girlfriends? Well here it is...the martini olive hair clip! You could whip up a bunch of these and they're less than $1 a piece to make. Hello, now that's a fabulous holiday gift budget. Simply wrap it in a cute box with your favorite martini recipe and voila...a lovely thoughtful handmade gift.

You'll need -

olive green clay (mine is sculpey "moss")

flatback red crystals (I used Jolees Jewels...not plastic)

alligator hair clip

hot glue gun

Trust me these will be a huge hit for the holidays...or any day!

Channeling Martha...

2010-09-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

It's no big secret that Martha Stewart is amazing...and if you haven't played with her product line (Available at Micheals Craft Store) you're missing out! The brilliantly crafty folks over at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia can totally rock a holiday like Halloween...but with their products so can you! Think outside of the box and be creative. I'm making these halloween happy hour flasks as favors for our halloween party this year. A mix of Martha Stewart papers, glitter, borders and jewels make these super festive and totally fun. Hope my guests like them!

Guy Time

2010-09-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

My husband never really asks for much when it comes to my crafting. So when he said "can't you make something retro cool without any flowery crap all over it"...I knew I had a challenge. Trying to fit some guy style into my line that's dedicated to bringing out the retro glam in the everyday girl, well it took me a minute to digest.

Then I realized most of my glam girls have dapper men...so I'm working on a retro collection for those guys!

Why not have a little man chic right?

My dad loves the money clips...

And the guys at my hubby's work love the flasks.

Hopefully my man is happy now :)

Trash to Treasure...

2010-09-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

These fabulous faux enamel flower earrings are made from...soda cans! Yes folks turn those empty cans into the hottest flower accessory in just 3 simple steps!

It's that simple...and you can use all sorts of fabulous flower punches. The ends aren't sharp but you can run a file around them if your punch is pointy. (the paint a sealer dull the edges too)

Endless possibilites...

Guess The Material

2010-09-06T05:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day...here's a holiday guessing game. These beautiful flowers are made from a unique material...any guesses?

Tutorial tomorrow :)

Winner Time!!!!!!!!

2010-08-31T04:57:00.000-07:00

It's official...the winner of the giveaway is (insert drumroll here)...

CourtneysMommy!

Email me your address so I can send out your girls night kit :) - poppychic(at)comcast(dot)net

Glam Giveaway Time!

2010-08-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the last week off...it was "back to school" week for here so we were squeezing every last minute of summer in whenever we could! To celebrate my return, I've decided to do a giveaway...

One lucky glam girl will receive this mini girls night out kit with double sided pocket mirror and matching chic hair pin. All you have to do is follow my blog and leave me a comment telling me your favorite girls night out activity. Contest open from now until Monday at 6:00pm. It's that simple...

Contest winner will be selected at random and will be announced Monday night!

My favorite girls night is mexican food and margaritas with the chicks :)

Good Luck

Girls Night Out Kit

2010-08-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

Okay so when in reality I'm going to Chuckie Cheese tonight with my hubby and my little guys, in my fantasy I'm going out with the girls for a Bon Jovi concert (at which point Bon Jovi will call me onstage and sing to me and profess his love...a girl can dream right?). This is a little kit I've designed for such occasion, or just a calm girls night with friends. Complete with a girly flask, retro double sided mirror and mini glam hair pin...with these tools who wouldn't have a fun night!

I do love Chuckie Cheese though...I'm hooked on the pizza.

Recycled Pringles Can Bracelet

2010-08-17T17:19:00.000-07:00

In my quest to find unique ways to justify buying Pringles I discovered this fact. While shoving my hand down to tube to get the last chip...it fits quite comfortably. HELLO...the perfect bracelet!

Have fun and go green!

You'll need-

clean empty Pringles can

scissors

2 different papers

mod podge

faom brush

tape

Peacock Glam Shoe Clips

2010-08-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

The hubby and I got a chance to go out for a quick adult beverage with friends this past weekend and I felt the need to glam it up a bit. I whipped up these fabulous peacock shoe clips from a tutorial I posted last month. If you haven't made a pair of these beauties...go do it! Play around with colors, funky buttons and different feathers, it a nice way to add some serious style to a simple little outfit :)

Free Necklace Promo!

2010-08-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

From now until midnight tonight (EST) I will be including a FREE Retro Birdie Flask Necklace with every Cocktail Chic Flask purchased for my blog followers and facebook fans! I had one of those days today so I'm sharing the love :)

Enter code "mommyjuice" in the message to seller at checkout.

Retro Poppy-tini Recipe

2010-08-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

I love martinis. I do. There's something so classy yet flirty about them. I wanted to create a special recipe for all of my fellow martini lovers...so here it is. It's sweet with a retro splash.

1 part citrus vodka

1 part passion fruit nectar (goya brand in the international food section)

splash of Fresca

Pour vodka and nectar in to a shaker with ice...shake it baby! Strain into a chilled martini glass and add a splash of Fresca.

Cheers!

Puppy Poppies

2010-08-06T06:33:00.000-07:00

Meet Pixie. She's my adorable dog...my reason for pink in my house (my 2 boys aren't a fan of the color). I occasionally make her flowers to add a pop of style to her collar and I swear she loves them. You know feels a bit more glamorous, walks a bit perkier...you get the idea! Anyway I've decided to make a bunch of these cute puppy poppies for Downtown Frederick's "Dog Days" celebration this Saturday and they will be on sale at Simply Beautiful Boutique in downtown Frederick. May there be stylish doggies everywhere this weekend!

Easy Gift Idea

2010-08-02T19:06:00.000-07:00

Okay so I'm trying to get a jumpstart on my Holiday Gifts...I always have grand ideas but never have the time during the actual holiday season! So I'm working on some cool family gifts now that way I have a headstart :)

These handstamped coasters are FABULOUS! Super adorable, useful, inexpensive and so easy to make. Who wouldn't love a set of these...

The process is simple.

*Find beautiful stamps, pretty ink pads, felt circles or squares, hot glue and spray acrylic sealer.

*Go buy some 4x4 tiles (top photo are tumbled tiles 9 in a pack for $4.50 at Home Depot / bottom picture regular 4x4 ivory tiles 16 cents each at Home Depot!)

*clean them off with water, dry them

*stamp them with your pretty stamps

*bake them on cookie sheet 350 for 20 minutes to heat set the stamp ink

*turn oven off and let cool

*hot glue felt to back of tile

*spray with one coat of sealer

*stack them and wrap with a pretty ribbon...enjoy

Easy Peasy

Martha Stewart's "Doer of the Week"...wow!

2010-07-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled and honored to be chosen as Martha Stewart's "Doer of the Week"! I'm so proud to be a member of the amazing Dreamers into Doers community on http://www.marthastewart.com/ and just so excited to be the Doer of the Week! Here's the article!

The Chic Flask Necklace

2010-07-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

As you may know by now I love unique accessories and I'm totally inspired by the 1960's cocktail vibe lately. Well what do you get when you combine the two...a chic girly cocktail flask necklace! I added these beauties to my new line and I have to say sometimes just knowing there's an ounce of pink grapefruit vodka (ready for a quick martini) around your neck can be quite fun!

Glam Girl Shoe Clip Tutorial

2010-07-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

Never underestimate the confidence boost of a cute shoe clip. I just love to dress up my tootsies, it makes me feel ultra girly. Here's a fun tutorial for these glam shoe clips!

You'll need-

18 inches of tulle

pretty feathers

2 cute buttons

hot glue gun

shoe clips (you can use clip on earring backs too)

felt scraps

So have fun creating and glam up those tootsies!

Vintage Style Clay Purse

2010-07-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

I was just playing around the other day and came up these cute vintage style clay purses! I used a ball of polymer clay, pearl x shimmer powder and two 3 way floral necklace connectors and some paint for "antiquing". You basically just shape the clay into an oval then take the connectors and smoosh then into the top 1/4 of your oval. You can flatten the bottom of the purse by gently sitting it down on a flat surface and lightly puch it down to flatten. Then rub it with pearl x and bake as directed. Once it cools paint the metal and rub off excess with a paper towel to give it an antique look. I think it turned out pretty sweet...

Cocktail Chic

2010-07-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new line of Cocktail Chic Accessories! I just love the 1960's retro cocktail vibe lately so I decided to create a line inspired by my those times! Fabulous and fun for girls night out, bachelorette parties or bridesmaid gifts. Available online today!

Cute and easy wine tags

2010-07-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

Next time you have a bunch of friends over make these simple fun wine tags in a snap. You can use solid colors, or maybe pretty patterns...you can even write the names of your guests on them. This is super easy to make and they really look cute when everyone is walking around with little flowers on their glasses!

You'll need-

different color cardstock

one large flower punch (mine is 2 inches)

one smaller circle punch (mine is 1 inch)

and wine of course!

Have fun!

Beautiful Goodies for a Beautiful Man

2010-07-14T05:55:00.000-07:00

Before I became a crafty mom I was a dancer. I loved it, every second of it. From the countless hours of rehearsal as a kid in a small studio to performing professionally on grande stages across the globe. All of this was possible because of my talented, loving,wonderful dance teacher, Tom Waters. This friday night some of my Poppy Chic goodies will be a part of the silent auction at the Gala for Tom

An evening to honor and celebrate one of Frederick’s most beloved dance educators.

The evening will include a silent auction and screening of the documentary “A Gift of Love: The Legacy of Thomas F. Waters.” There will also be several special performances by family and friends. Light hor d’oeuvres will be served from La Paz and a cash bar will be available.

There will be a silent auction with lots of great items from around Frederick. Proceeds from ticket sales and silent auction will go towards a memorial fund in Tom’s name to aid dancers in our community and to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association to help find a cure for the disease that has claimed Tom far too soon.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through the Weinberg Center Box Office by calling 301-600-2828.
If you care to make an individual donation to the Thomas F. Waters Memorial Fund, they can be mailed to the Community Foundation of Frederick County at 312 E. Church St. Frederick, MD 21701

Thanks for everything Tom :)

Faux Glam Rock Ring

2010-07-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

I love a big bold ring, especially when it looks like a big glam rock of a gem! I thought I'd share my fun and unqie way to create a faux rock of your own. The best thing about working with clay is if you don't like the way it's turning out...you can smoosh it up and try again. Have fun and be fabulous!

Hope you enjoy your new chunky gem!

Folded Petals Tutorial

2010-07-05T07:26:00.000-07:00

I love using wool felt to make flowers, but I really like my flowers to have some dimension. Flat flowers just don't seem as happy to me! I found a way to make a pretty popped up flower and it's super simple too! Thought I'd share it with you...

You'll need-

6 felt circles (5 for the flower, 1 for the base)

scissors

hot glue gun

pretty button

pinback or bobby pin if you wish

I even made a smaller one for a necklace...

Garden Party

2010-07-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

I will be wearing my red, white and blue on Sunday to celebrate the 4th of July...but Saturday is all about pretty colors. I'm having a little garden party with some of my friends and I've made a bunch of pretty flower corsages as party favors for them to wear while they're sipping white peach sangria and to take home when they leave! I've made several colors so I'm hoping everyone finds one they like. It's fun to surprise your friends with pretty things. Happy holidays and have a safe weekend eveyone!

4th of July Tank Top

2010-07-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

I'm looking forward to the 4th of July holiday weekend! Bring on the BBQ, pool, family, friends, blueberry lemonade and of course some red white and blue fashion. I found this simple navy blue tank at the store for around $3...hello love that! I had this cute red checkered fabric and decided to make my own holiday shirt!

It was super simple and only took 5 minutes to complete. Cut 3 strips of fabric (I used one soft cream colored strip for contrast and 2 of the red checkers) all 14 inches long. The width of the cream strip is 4 inches and the 2 red strips are 2.5 inches and 1.5 inches. Simply layer them one on top of the other then sew straight down the center (sewing them all together) on your machine. Pull the thread (the bobbin one) to ruffle and secure the ends. Then hand stitch it to your tank and Happy 4th of July!

There are so many fabulous ruffle tank tutorials out there...google yourself silly and happy crafting :)

Fabric Covered Bead Necklace Tutorial

2010-06-28T06:47:00.000-07:00

I love creating these pretty little beads to add a romantic feel to any outfit. I just love a long necklace...

You'll need-

3 wooden beads with large center hole

3 long scraps of fabric less than 1/2 inch wide

large needle (I used a plastic canvas needle)

bit of ribbon

fabric glue (hot glue works too)

22 inch chain that you can seperate in the center

My Poppies on Good Morning America!

2010-06-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

My friend Alexis Tirado was named Alicia Keys new head blogger for I Am A Super Woman - IAAS.com yesterday morning on Good Morning America! She's amazing and I'm so happy for her... and she has fabulous taste in hair accessories. She was chosen from 8,500 applications and I met her when she worked for Martha Stewart's website. She's such a cool girl and so very deserving of this opportunity.

I was drinking my coffee watching Good Morning Amercia and waiting for the head blogger announcement when low and behold...Alexis won! That made me super happy, then I realized OMG she's wearing one of the glam poppy hair flowers I made for her...on TV! This made me spill my coffee,

it's hard to jump up and down with a coffee mug you know.

Keep an eye out for her...she's got a pretty incredible future ahead of her!

Ruffle Earrings Anyone?

2010-06-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

If you're in love with ruffles like I am then here is a super quick way to add a little girly goodness to your earring collection! This simple tutorial uses some of the same techniques as the Ruffle NecklaceTutorial I posted earlier so you can go crazy with ruffles if you'd like!

You'll need -

wire hoops (craft store, claires or make your own)

fabric scraps (2 equal pieces)

needle and thread or sewing machine

*I also used a candle to heat seal the egdes of my chiffon*

These little hoop earrings make me feel so girly, I just love them...hope you do too!

Corsage Class Coming Soon!

2010-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to be back to teach a class at Simply Beautiful Boutique, the sweetest little downtown Frederick, MD boutique ever! On Thursday July 1st @7pm I will be teaching a "Sex and the City" Style Corsage Class...and there will be cocktails too! This corsage has a few key fabric flower making methods combined into one FABULOUS big and bold corsage. I will have a ton of beautiful colors to choose from and all the materials you need to make one to wear home...or across the street for dinner and drinks.

Just think...if you start now and totally make all of your friends and family these for Christmas :)

Sweet Gathered Roses (my grandma's "magic" roses)

2010-06-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Such a unique fabric flower, grandma called them "magic roses"...hope you like them!

You’ll need –

a square of fabric approx 4 inches x 4 inches (any size square will work...play with it)

Needle and thread

Glue gun

Felt scraps cut into leaves

Pinback

These are so fun to make and really have a unique look.

I hope you make them and love them as much as I do!

Chiffon Flower Shoe Clips

2010-06-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

I love adding a little extra pop of girly style to my already girly outfit! I just adore the thought of dressing up an average flat with a happy chiffon flower shoe clip. These little beauties work on just about any summer shoe from flip flops to strappy night time sandals. I used the Fabric Carnation Tutorial but used a pretty lemon chiffon instead of cotton. After I made the flowers I heat sealed the edges by gently waving it over a candle...which makes the flower curl up even more! Then I added a little piece of felt with a shoe clip (you can even use a clip on earring back from the craft store) and attached it with a little hot glue.

Easy Peasy!

Birthday Cake Ring Tutorial

2010-06-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday! I have had an amazing day so far with my family, I am such a lucky girl :) My little guys are resting before dinner and cake time so I thought I'd share my little birthday cake ring tutorial with you to keep the party going!

You'll need-

5 little polyester fabric circles (I used a vanilla color and cut them under 3/4 inch)

some pretty tulle bits (as the icing of course)

a few pretty flower beads in differnt sizes for stacking (or just a bunch of colored round beads will work too)

one little pearl bead

ring base

glue gun

needle and thread

candle (and tweezers so you don't burn your fingers!)

Think of this as my party favor to you!

Fabric Carnation Tutorial

2010-06-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

Have fun with this super easy pom pom style flower tutotrial!

Then you can wear them in your girly world with your girlly dog...who also has one on her collar :)

Happy Almost Birthday To Me!

2010-06-17T18:31:00.000-07:00

I love birthdays...my kids, my hubby, my folks, my friends, my dog and yes mine too! Celebrating life and feeling super special is fabulous, and you should do it every day especially on your birthday. I have made tons of hair flowers, corsages and jewelry for people for their birthdays and this year I decided to make myself a little bit of cuteness for my big day on Saturday. I wanted to make a little something happy to wear all day...so I combined a few things I love into a cute little hair flower. I love flowers, ruffles, polka dots, sparkles, my boys (that's why it's blue) and a little 1940's glam. So here it is...now what to wear with it?

Shabby Chic Ruffle Necklace

2010-06-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

I made this cute summer tutorial for Kristin over at Craft Leftovers...

my version of a super popular look, enjoy!

Supplies –

Strip of fabric 30 inches by 3 inches

Six 2 inch squares of contrasting scrap fabric

17 inch chain with closure

Needle and thread

Safety pin

Scissors

Rose Ring Pin Cushion Tutorial

2010-06-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

You'll need -

scrap felt (wool is my favorite but craft felt works too)

hot glue gun

bit of ribbon

metal ring base

This little ring is super handy and makes a fun gift for any of your sewing friends!

Carrie Corsage...

2010-06-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

It's been a pretty busy week with all of the end of the school year fun! I'm actually off to my second grader's "ice cream party" for the last day of school today as soon as I post here:) I've been trying to sneak in a little creative time when I can this week and designed my version of the Sex and the City "Carrie Corsage". I love big, bold flowers but I tried to make this one soft and feminine as well. It's really pretty and I will be making a bunch of pretty colors soon so stay tuned!

Flower Baubles

2010-06-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

I just adore a statement ring. I love when I'm chatting with someone and notice that they have a fabulous chunky ring that catches my eye, I always comment on it! I've been looking for a way to use some of the fantastic beads I have in my collection and decided to make my own big flower bauble style cocktail ring. Guess what, I wore one today and as I was chatting with the sweet lady at the checkout she said "Ooh, cute ring". I'm not the only one who loves a cool statement ring :) I'm thinking of doing a tutorial or adding them to the jewelry class lineup...

Ruffles and Wine Class

2010-06-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time last night teaching a "Poppy Ruffles" class at Simply Beautiful Boutique in dowtown Frederick, MD. Seriously what could be better...girl time, jewlery making, laughs and wine at a beautiful boutique located in the heart of downtown. It was really cool. Here's the necklace and earring set I created while teaching the class, I think I'll wear it tonight! The class made some beautiful ruffles too, I hope they love them! We're planning to do more classes and I'm totally ready with some fun new ideas for summer...bling anyone?

Easy White Chocolate Cherry Oat Biscuits

2010-06-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

Baking is not my strong point. Let's just get that out there, I'm okay with it. Imagine my delight when I discovered that using Heart Smart Bisquick and throwing in some other goodies can create something so yummy that my family loves! Yay me :) Anyway I thought I'd share the recipe for White Chocolate Cherry Oat Biscuits that are quick, easy and pretty good for you too!

Preheat oven to 450- in a bowl mix

*1 1/2 cups of Heart Smart Bisquick

*1/4 cup of quick cook oats

*1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of skim milk

*1/4 cup dries cherries

*1/4 cup white chocolate chips

Mix all ingredients until combined and sticky. Drop by yummy clumps on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Bake for 7-9 minutes (I usually do 7 minutes) Makes 6 biscuits. Enjoy!

Gem Cubes

2010-06-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

So what do you get when you combine a little polymer clay, a few flatback crystals, pearl x powder and a rainy afternoon? You guessed it...Gem Cubes! I love to mix classic beauty and modern design, these little modern cubes of clay frame the classic rhinestone just right. And they couldn't be simpler to make too. Just form little balls of clay then pinch them into chubby cubes with your fingers. Once you have the shape and size you like pick your crystal and smoosh (that is the technical term) it in the center. Using your finger rub a little shimmer pearl powder all over the clay for add sparkle (if you get any on your gem just lightly brush off with a paint brush). If you're making a pendant pop in some eye pins or wire. Now bake @ 275 for 25 mins, let cool then seal with any sealer you choose (I use a paint brush and some matte acrylic varnish). Hot glue to some post earring backs, add your chain and you're ready to shine!

Paper Rosie Hair Pin Tutorial

2010-05-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

I just love the idea of whipping up a bunch of cute hair flowers for my friends for no reason at all, just because it makes them smile! I created this super fun and easy tutorial for the lovely folks over at Crafty Ideas Weekly so you can surprise your friends, party guests or fellow soccer moms with a pretty handmade bloom to brighten their day too. I learned to make these fun little flowers from my mom when I was a little girl and now I'm sharing it with you. Think of all the lovely cardstock papers you could use to make these beauties fit any occasion!

Supplies -

4x4 inch square cardstock

1.5x3 inch patterned green cardstock

bobby pin

glue gun

Matte acrylic spray sealer (I used Krylon,my favorite)

1- gather material

2 - draw a spiral on 4x4 carstock and draw 2 leaf shapes on green cardstock

3 - cut out along lines of spiral starting at the outside point and cut out leaves

4 - begin to tightly roll the spiral working from outside in

5 - keep spiral help tight

6 - let it go to see it uncoil ever so slightly to a natural rose (this always feels like magic for some reason)

7 - hot glue the little nub (it was the very center of your spiral) down to the rolled flower and hold in place for a few seconds

8 - slide bobby pin on to one leaf then place it on top ofthe second leaf and glue to the flower

Spray the entire paper flower and leaves with the sealer let dry 15 minutes and spray again. This makes the bloom waterproof and allows you to wear it again and again.

So sweet!

Vintage Blooms for a Summer Party...

2010-05-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

I am constantly trying to come up with new ways to combine vintage treasures into my fabric flower designs. Sometimes I use vintage fabrics and vintage rhinestones in my blooms and recently I've been lucky enough to come across some fabulous vintage plastic flowers. I created some pretty fabric flowers with tulle and chiffon then added layers of these vintage flower finds as their centers. These little beauties are so fun and the colors are just perfect for a summer party. I am planning on having a few folks over for the Memorial Day weekend and I will be wearing some of these new flowers as I'm sipping Strawberry Lemonade (or a margarita) in the backyard!

Paper Flower Earrings

2010-05-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

I have several amazing friends that I just adore. Some of them are super organized while others are a bit more spontaneous shall we say. One of my quirky spontaeous girlies called me with a fun last minute challenge. She called at 3:30pm and said she needed 25 party favors for a bridal shower she was throwing the next day (in her defense her original favors weren't delivered on time). And her budget was "as little as possible please"! The bride to be is a journalist and loves roses...

Using paper (inspired by her journalist background), pearls and a tiny bit of felt I created these sweet paper rose earrings in all sorts of summer pastel colors matching the theme of the shower. I sealed them so they are stiff and waterproof and can be worn again and again. Apparently they were a huge hit and everyone loved them. Yay :)

My obsession with faux china continues...

2010-05-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

I am a bit odd, I'm okay with that. Can I go make some broken china jewelry with real broken china...well sure. Do I feel the need to continue my quest to recreate broken china in other materials instead...yes, yes I do.
My latest necklace is an uneven chunk of white polymer clay that I flattened with a glass, hand stamped, baked then colored with markers and sealed with utee for a glass like finish. I feel satisfied now...and I love the way it hangs on my neck! Try it, it's fun!

Tutorial - Faux Broken China Necklace

2010-05-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

I love to come up with out of the box recreations of things I love...my latest creation is a lighter funky alternative to broken china jewelry. Made with shrink plastic, stamps, ink, markers and utee. This necklace looks fabulous and is fun to make!

Supplies- White shrinky dink paper (sanded), pretty floral stamp, permanent markers, utee (or clear embossing powder, 1/8 hole punch, chain and jumprings.

Let's begin!

step 1 - use a semi dark ink to ink your stamp

step 2 - press down onto sanded shrinky dink paper

step 3 - begin coloring the stamped image lightly with permanent markers

step 4 - cut out a section to resemble a broken piece of china. remember to cut your piece approx 3 times larger than you'd like your pendant. this one is 3.75 inches long

step 5 - using your 1/8 hole punch put two holes on either side of your shrink paper (for the jumprings)

step 6 - place in 350 * oven bake until it shrinks 2-4 minutes (or what ever directions your paper says to bake)

See how bright the colors become!

ALERT! Amazing techinique you can you for so many things

step 7 - sprinkle the entire pendant with a decent layer of utee or clear embossing powder

*notice how it's covered up to the ends to prevent dripping over in the oven. place back in 350 degree oven and watch it. you'll see it bubble up get clumpy weird then smooth out like glass...take it out when it's smooth. (be careful it's ridiculously hot until it cools and hardens...like 2 minutes)

see...smooth and pretty

Step 8 - Attach jumprings and chain of your choice and voila...fabulous faux china necklace!

Giveaway Time! - Shabby Chic Rose Tutorial

2010-05-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to have my first tutorial for sale in my etsy shop! Follow my blog and leave a comment here telling me what you would do with these lovely shabby chic roses and I will randomly pick a winner to recieve the new tutorial PDF!

I will also keep posting free new tutorials on my blog for fun stuff I love to make too :) Up next, Faux Broken China Jewelry...look for the "how to" soon!

Not your mama's shrinky dinks!

2010-05-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, once again I've found the need to act like a kid again. But man, look at what happened...Retro Cool Shrinky Dink Jewelry. I am loving this fun way to create something girly while still playing with my kids!
Just goes to show you how simple fun from the past can be reinvented!

Roses are red...

2010-04-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is lately but I can't get enough of little dainty post earrings. They make me feel super girly and feminine for some reason. I've decided to create some little hand sewn rosie earrings in tons of spring colors...a girl can never have enough earrings right? I just listed some in my etsy shop http://www.poppychicdesigns.etsy.com/ so you can feel like a retro girly goddess too!

Artist Festival...

2010-03-09T11:58:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I had a booth at the local Frederick Artist Market during our downtown "Go Green" celebration. It was lovely. Sometimes doing so much of my work online, I forget just how nice it is to actually look someone in the eye and talk to them! I loved seeing how people look when they buy one of my flowers then pop it in their hair right away. Never underestimate the power of a well placed hair flower :) I even got the chance to catch up with a few of my crafty mom friends and we made plans to get together for crafty bonding in the near future. So nice...thought I'd blog about, ironic huh!

Spring Blooms

2010-03-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

Yes I love snow, but I love flowers more. Spring makes me happy, and the beautiful colors of the season are so inspiring. I've been making some new spring corsages, big beautiful blooms handmade with love!

Oscar Gift Lounge

2010-02-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm so excited to have some of my sweet little flowers included in the 2010 Oscars Gift Lounge! It's pretty cool, will aa fabulous celebrity pick up one of my flowers and fall in love, who knows...but I sure hope so! Honestly I'm just thrilled to be asked to have my flowers there in LA.

Somewhat obsessed with fabric scraps...

2010-02-24T06:11:00.000-08:00

I am constantly trying to find new ways to use the random strips of fabric that are leftover from my flower creations. I just love creating cool unique accessories and most recently decided to try some wire word writing. But I added a twist...fabric wrapped wire! Of course I also added a little bloom too!

Shabby Chic Anyone?

2010-02-22T14:23:00.000-08:00

I just love, love, love anything that combines a natural rustic feel with a touch of glamour. I'm creating some new shabby chic spring flowers to add to my line of hair flowers. The best part is these sweeties are made from recycled fabric scraps. A sweet mix of wool felt, tulle, lace, fabric and a little rhinestone glam combine to create these little beauties. Hope you like them as much as I do ♥

Favorite Things - Pincushion Rings

2010-02-15T15:07:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd share some of my favorite things...first up Pincushion rings. Seriously how many times did I drop, misplace, lose, or vaccum up my needles. Well I decided to bring the pincushion to my finger tips...literally. I use pincushion rings! I make them from wool felt and a nice sturdy metal ring base, design them as pretty flowers and BAM no more lost needles.

Fabric Wrap Bracelet Tutorial

2010-02-12T10:58:00.000-08:00

My first tutorial is here! These cute little bracelets are super sweet and fun to make too. Whenever I wear one people always ask where I got it... well now you know!

Gather some scarp fabric, 1 metal bangle (thin) scissors and a little sparkly button with a shank.

Cut a 2 inch by 18 inch strip of fabric

Now to start wrapping your bangle leave about 2 inches as your starter the neatly wrap the fabric around the bangle

Keep wrapping the bangle giving a little "tug" ever once in a while to tighten the wrap...

Tie the remaining fabric in a secure double knot and even up the edges...

Use a hot glue gun or fabric glue to put a drop of glue into the crevice of the knot (this is where the shank of the button will push into)...

Add your sparkly button and hold in place for a few seconds...and YOU'RE DONE!

Play around with different fabrics, you can make them a bit longer 2 inches by 26 inches) to tie a bow at the end too. Be creative, it's a sweet thing!

Tutorials Anyone?

2010-02-08T06:17:00.000-08:00

I always have people ask me "how did you do that"? Well this week I'm going to start sharing! I'll be including tutorials for handmade pretties that make me smile...first up Fabric Bracelets. Stay tuned :)

Snow Baby!

2010-02-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

I love snow! We just got 32 inches of it...even though it's beautiful, I guess that's a little much. Being snowed in is really fun though, all of the baking, crafting, snuggling...it's very calming. I'm finding my self inspired to create new goodies and have the time to work on my "back shelf" projects too. Here's my Vintage Snow Hair Flowers to celebrate the blizzard!

Bring it on sewing machine

2010-02-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

Okay so I asked for a sewing machine for Christmas...2 years ago. I got it, and immediately tried to sew. I was not blessed with the sewing gene that was bestowed upon my mother and grandma, apparently it skipped right on past me. I started with the instruction book, it was like reading Japanese. I had so many projects going on at the time I ended up packing it up for a later date.

It's now a later date and I am determined to conquer this thing. So far so good...I made a ruffle necklace!!!!!!! I am so proud, seriously. I vow to continue to post my sewing projects and inspire other non sewers out there!

I love Shoe Clips

2010-01-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

Okay so it's no surprise that I love the old Hollywood Glam Style and one of my latest obsessions...these fabulous little shoe clips. They are super cute and I swear when I'm wearing them I feel an extra little confidence boost. Dressing up your toes...to cute!

Guess Who's Meeting Martha...

2010-01-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

Me! Okay I'm super excited about this, Poppy Chic Designs (that's me) will be part of an exciting group of women , the "Dreamers into Doers", from MarthaStewart.com who will have the chance to meet Martha Stewart, attend her show, tour her studios and help out a fabulous NYC Charity too! I will be donating a ton of retro hair flowers to the women and children of Safe Horizon Shelter as well as 60 corsages for Martha's staff and my fellow "Dreamers"! More to come...

Exciting news for 2010!

2010-01-04T07:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Poppy Chic Designs is thrilled to be included in the Golden Globes Gift Bags and Gift Lounge on January 17th! I'm looking forward to and exciting 2010 and this is a great way to kick it off. I will have 90 Vintage Glam Hair flowers at the event for nominees, presenters and media...so thrilled!

October Giveaway

2009-10-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

I love fall...the colors, the scent of pumpkin pie, the crunchy sound leaves make when you run through them and most of all the start of the holiday season! To kick off the holidays I'm offering my first ever blog giveaway! All you have to do is leave a comment about your favorite part of fall and I will choose a winner at random to recieve these Harvest Spice Poppies! Winner will be announced here and contacted on Friday October 23rd...so you will have your poppies in time for Halloween! Good Luck

Felt Addict...

2009-10-07T05:23:00.000-07:00

My name is Taryn and I'm addicted to felt. It's true. I've been playing with this eco friendly felt (made from 100% post consumer plastic bottles) and I'm just in love. Maybe the colder weather makes soft fuzzy felt more appealing, who knows. Whatever the case may be, I'm finding more ways to create with it every day. I've even opened up a new etsy shop dedicated to my eco friendly creations http://www.lolapetals.etsy.com/ ! With all the handsewing I've been doing with this felt I found I needed a handy pin cushion so I created this eco friendly pin cushion ring! So cute and handy too :)

Eco Friendly Flower Accessories

2009-09-26T16:33:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I love making fabric flower accessories that comes as no surprise to anyone. Recently I have committed to using recycled fabrics and eco felt that is made from recycled post consumer plastic bottles in many of my designs. It's become my new passion...finding cool vintage fabrics and make beautiful blooms out of interesting fabrics. Yes I will continue to make my rerto inspired flowers but I will be incorporating these eco friendly materials as much as possible. It feels good...go green!

Eco Friendly Poppies

2009-08-11T05:09:00.000-07:00

Okay so I'm going green...not with eyeshadow or clothing choices but with my poppies! I'm starting to focus on vintage and recycled fabrics and back all poppies with recycled post consumer plastic bottles! Be on the look out for my new eco friendly line!

Okay...I'm blogging now. I promise.

2009-06-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

I tried blogging a while back...didn't really happen. But I'm giving it another shot! This time I'm creating this blog to share my creations with you...whether it's my new favorite margarita or my latest crafty fashion...I'm bringing it all to you guys. Let the fun begin!

My fab summer margarita...

Limeade Yummies

6 oz Frozen Limeade Concentrate
6oz Water
4oz Tequila
2 oz Blackberry (or any flavor you like) Liqueur

Serve on the rocks or blend with ice...yummy!

First Snow

2008-11-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

Okay, so after tons of "Holiday gift Bazaars" I saw my first few snow flakes today with my son and now I'm finally feeling in the holiday mood! I'm going to be creating a beautiful new snow inspired poppy brooch tonight and will post it asap. Let it snow!

**look for my first holiday "free gift" contest soon**

Urban Poppies

2008-11-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

So, I love the vintage romantic style...but I also dabble in some urban chic designs that compliment my collection. This necklace has the look of leather but is crafted using polymer clay. I love the funky city chic vibe...

Red And Blue Today

2008-11-04T06:49:00.000-08:00

Wow, today is election day...I hope everyone gets out there and votes. To celebrate today I'm doing a giveaway on etsy!!!!!!! Everyone will recieve your choice of a red or blue poppy hair pin free with every purchase. Democracy is a beautiful thing...and so are poppies!

New venture

2008-11-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been creating and selling my romantic vintage inspired jewelry for a while now (http://www.beautymarkbeads.etsy.com/) and now I'm revisiting a blast from the past. When I was a little girl we used to make these handcrafted poppy flowers for our ballet costumes and I was always the girl who made extra for my hair! I've decided to start http://www.poppychicdesigns.etsy.com/ to showcase my sweet new creations