Every Photographer Needs Fingerless Gloves--My New Knitting Obsession

After seeing a pair of fingerless gloves made by one of my new photography friends (thank you Lisa), I have been on a knitting kick.   Finally the basket of untouched yarn that has been sitting in my closet for over four years (I went through a felting phase) is taking on new life as fingerless gloves.

Frankly, I never really thought of myself as a fingerless gloves kind of gal.  I questioned whether or not I was hip enough to wear them.  But then I realized (through my chic and savvy photography pals), that not only are these gloves stylish, they are perfect for snapping pictures on cold days.  Seriously, what better way to keep your hands warm and your thumb and fingers free for adjusting the settings on your camera.   Fun and functional!  And really.... no matter what your age or style--you CAN pull off the look.

As far as knitting goes, the great thing about this project is that you do not have to be a serious knitter to make them.  If you can make a scarf, you can TOTALLY make a pair of these fun hand-warmers (yes, I did say "totally"---I'm a product of the 80's and these have a Madonna mixed with the homespun goodness of your Granny flair)!

I find that the key is chunky yarn and big knitting needles.  With those two elements, you can whip up a pair in an evening. Here is a great Youtube video from Howcast that will get you knitting and purling up a pair in no time.

How To Knit Fingerless Gloves on Howcast

Or if you want to skip knitting but are still willing to get your craft on, you could always try making a pair the "Upcycled" way.  Basically you take an old wool sweater, felt it (by washing it in hot water in your washing machine) and cut off the sleeves.   Here is a link to a great tutorial on The Cottage Home that will get you rooting through your closet looking for old sweaters.

Hmmm......maybe we will do a giveaway on the blog in the upcoming weeks.  I've got another pair in the works.....think purple with a big flower button.

Photo Magnets--Holiday Craft

by Kristina Rust

I love making things.  I am definitely my mother's daughter.  My mom is the queen of craftiness.   She sews (she made my wedding dress), is a Master Gardner, has dabbled in stained glass, has painted, and has a knack for decorating.    While I don't necessarily share all of her talents, I do share the desire to create.

Anyway,  my love of photography has inspired me to not only snap pictures but to do something with them.  How many photos do you have sitting on your computer (your own photos--your kids, your family not your clients), waiting to be printed and shared whether it be with your friends and family or just for yourself?

Here is a super easy and inexpensive project that will turn your photos into great little magnets.  Or skip the magnets and just fill a bowl with inspirational words and your favorite photos.  These will make great holiday gifts (my secret Santa is going to receive some.....shhhh don't tell).


The Supplies (all purchased at Michaels):

• Bottle of Modge Podge (I used matte finish)   cost:  $3.49
• Tube of Amazing Goop (it really is amazing but stinky!) cost:  $4.99
• Disc Magnets (.75 inch or 19mm from ProMAG) cost:  $6.99 (used a 40% off coupon for this)
• Favorite Photos (I printed a bunch using the Contact Sheet II option in PSE8)
• Jumbo Clear Luster Flat-Back Glass Marbles  cost:  $2.49
• A small paint brush
• An hour or so of time (and some good music playing in the background)

The Steps:

Step 1:  Print out some of your favorite photos onto matte finished photo paper.  I created a folder of favorite photos and then imported them into PSE 8 using the Contact Sheet II option under the file tab.  For the background below,  I used Kim Klassen's texture Phoebe (if you read this blog regularly, you know how much I love her textures).

Step 2:  Place the glass marble over each image you want to cut out and trace around it.  You will end up doing some extra trimming once the image is glued onto the marble but this will get you pretty close.

Step 3:  Put a coat of Modge Podge on the image (printed/photo side) and press the image (printed/photo side up) to your marble.  Don't worry the glue will dry clear.  Trim any excess paper from around the edges.

Step 4:  Once the image has started to set, add more Modge Podge to the back.  This is just to help adhere the edges to the glass.

Step 5:  Once your image has dried, use the Goop to glue your magnets to the backside of the marble.  Let it set for a few hours and voila.....you are done!

If you decide to not use magnets (cuz you have too much stainless steel in your house or nothing to stick these magnets on), you could cut out felt to adhere to the backsides too (just as a nice finish).

If you are looking for some other ideas for your photos, check out the frame I made a couple of weeks ago (inspired the amazing women at Camp Shutter Sisters) and next week I'll show you how to make these.....photo blocks......Yep, I'm on a Modge Podge kick!

Getting Crafty Make Your Own Photo Display Frame

This weekend I finally put together this adorable frame that I saw on Pinterest.  The idea came from
Talia Christine's blog.  Her husband actually handcrafted her frame from recycled wood (what a guy!).

Given that my hubby and I are not that handy, I decided to try and find a cheap frame.  After searching the Goodwill, Michaels and Ross I finally found a version I liked at m the Burlington Coat Factory.

Anyway, I thought I'd post my version just so you could see how easy it is to create.

As I mentioned, I went to Burlington Coat Factory and found this 16x20 frame for $14.99.  I removed the glass and matting and attached twine (purchased at Michaels for $2.50) and strung it across.  I attached the twine with heavy tape (I was concerned that if I used nails, I might crack the frame) and using clothespins that I already had, hung up some of my favorite pictures from Camp.

I love this idea!  I think it is a great way to display 4x6 prints and to easily interchange them.  This would also be a great way to showcase holiday cards or give to a friend as a gift.  If you end up making one for yourself, be sure to share a picture with us.  Happy crafting!