Thought Bubbles: 2011

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

QRistmas Wrapping Paper

Are people still hyped up about the whole QR code craze?

Well, either way, this wrapping paper is pretty sweet.

via DesignBoom

Thanks to Devon Rohr for the find!

Friday, December 2, 2011

Christmas Decorating on a Budget

It's hard to get excited about decorating for Christmas when you live in a small, urban apartment with a roommate... while also living on a budget. However, the designer/crafter in me couldn't resist incorporating some holiday flare into my humble abode. Here are a few ways that I decorated without breaking the bank. I also have some ideas for extra craft projects listed below.

Garland - borrowed

Candle Sticks and Holders - borrowed

Mini Tree - $5 (Ben Franklin)

Silver Balls - $1 (Target)

Small Knit Stockings - $3 each (Target)

Red Basket - borrowed

Pine Cones - FREE

Vintage Tool Box - $8 (Williamsburg Antique Store)

White Spray Paint - $5

Linens & Red Napkins - borrowed

Wine Bottle - reused

Ball Jars - reused

Holly Sprout - FREE

TOTAL COST - $25

A few other craft projects that I have in mind:

Create hand-drawn designs on red & green tea towels (Bleach Pen Idea from Design*Sponge Home).
Use an old shutter to create a holiday card holder (similar to this magazine rack).
Embellish my gift wrapping with free printable tags like these from My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia.
Make another string of garland using green yarn and pages from old novels.
Construct my own advent calendar (here are a bunch of great ideas from Creature Comforts).

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Farewell to my Favorite Season

Goodbye FALL! Until next year...

Monday, November 28, 2011

All Wrapped Up

Well, the weather is still 70 degrees outside, but I'm already thinking of getting all wrapped up. Okay, maybe not with scarves and mittens quite yet, but I am starting to plan my holiday wrapping, my favorite part of gift giving. Here is some inspiration to get me started...

MStetson Design

Mr. Boddington

Martha Stewart

Holiday Cards

Choosing a holiday card can be overwhelming. There are just so many great options. Check out some of these amazing Christmas cards I've been scouting online & be on the lookout, some of you may be receiving one of these in the mail this year!

Seasons Greetings!

Homesteading Roasters

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Like Crazy

I'm like crazy in love with this new indie film, Like Crazy.

This real life portrayal of the trials and tribulations of a long distance relationship takes you on a roller coaster of high and lows as you relate and empathize with the movie's characters. It's an impeccable illustration of young love, both beautiful, and inevitably challenging.

Like Crazy

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Sleek Silhouettes by Uliana Sergienko

Fall Colors + Feminine Silhouettes + Playful Accessories = LOVE

via ModCloth

Introducing: Writer's Block Vintage

For years, I've been browsing estate sales, thrift store and antique markets for unique vintage finds. And now, I've decided to share these great items with you by selling them on Etsy.

Writer's Block Vintage is my latest project that combines to of my favorite things: writing & antiques. With a focus on industrial desk items, Writer's Block Vintage offers a selection of antique typewriters as well as other vintage pieces that involve and inspire writing. Make sure to check in frequently as my inventory is always expanding and don't forget to share this link with friends & family.

And as a special offer for my readers and followers, I'm offering a special 20% OFF sale on all of the items in my store this weekend.

Simply enter the coupon code BLACKFRIDAY2011 at checkout and save on one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season.

Check out Writer's Block Vintage, now on Etsy.

I hope you like what you see!

My Latest Obsession: KNITTING

I have recently taken up knitting.

Yes, that's right. Another hobby to add to my growing list of DIY projects.

My good friend Ann Kamps showed my a few of the basics last night during our Knitting 101 Party. So far, I've learned the knit and purl stitches. She also showed me this little technique that incorporates 3 "loops" into the knit stitch to add various textures and patterns. I picked up the basic stitches quite quickly and found myself hesitant to put the needles down. I think I may have a new-found addiction on my hands. Hopefully soon, I'll have some new mittens too.

Next up, I'm going to make a scarf. Wish me luck!

And for the knitting gurus out there... check out Ravelry, a great online community that offers patterns, tools and resources for knitters and crocheters.