Sewing Crafts

The lovely blogger over at Gordon Gossip found these cute, swirly goodies from Better Homes and Gardens and fretted over working with fondant. Fear not! Here’s a quick tutorial to ease nerves over fondant. Fondant is user-friendly and will open so many cake and cookie decorating doors.

As BHG advises, fondant is best used in small amounts. I use it for accents on cakes and cookies. In large amounts, it simply isn’t appetizing, so these lollies and the trees on their site work better as decor rather than treats. I made small lollies in lieu of trees simply because I only had half a box of fondant on hand.

Prepared, white rolled fondant is available at major craft stores and cake decorating supply stores, usually the Wilton brand. It comes in big, white squares and is the consistency of Play-Doh. In fact, you manipulate it in much the same way.

TIPS:

• Fondant does dries out, but kneading it will soften it again.
• But kneading will also make it sticky and difficult. If fondant gets too soft (that is, if when working with fondant it starts to stick to your hands and leave residue, it’s too soft), let it sit uncovered on wax paper about 15 minutes and try again. It should be pliable and simple to use. The first sign of frustration, stop and let it sit out to stiffen a bit.
• Roll fondant easily between two pieces of wax paper.
• Tint fondant by adding a few drops of food coloring and kneading very well to blend it.
• Cut out shapes with cookie cutters or make 3-D shapes.
• To adhere fondant to other pieces of fondant or to cookies and cakes, you can either use light corn syrup or water dabbed on with a paint brush or your finger.
• Let stiffen about an hour and harden overnight.
• As mentioned, fondant can dry out, so wrap unused portions well in plastic.

how to make swirly fondant lollies

you will need:
white rolled fondant
food coloring (I use Americolor soft gel pastes, Electric Green and Red)
lollipop sticks

step one: tint fondant
Knead a few drops of coloring into a palm-ful of fondant very well. Let sit out if it gets too sticky.

step two: roll fondant logs
I used smaller lengths than the bhg instructions. I took a small piece, about a 1 1/2 inch ball, of tinted fondant and rolled it into a log on the counter about 10″ long and 1/4″ thick. Repeat with white fondant and line up the two logs. Here, bhg uses three logs (two white and one tinted) to achieve a smaller colored stripe. I wanted a bigger stripe so only used one white and one tinted. Carefully smush the two logs together with your fingers. Holding the ends, twist the logs. Then, alternately continue smushing the logs together with your fingers and rolling the new, blended log with your palm on the counter. The logs should blend together like shown.

step three: twirl your lolly
Now, simply coil the log into a circle and seal ends with a dab of water. If any part of the log is loose, use a touch of water as glue. Insert stick at bottom and let set an hour and harden overnight.

I was searching for something on my blog last night (didn’t find it, of course) and found a post about a new blog that had just started (exactly a year ago today) that really excited me – and the excitement is still there after a year.

We went to get our Christmas tree today, so I’m definitely getting in the Christmassy mood. Christmas is by far my favorite holiday, so expect lots o’ posts on Christmas treats.

I made these Christmastime Marshmallows as a guest poster for The Homemaking Cottage. You can check out their holiday ideas HERE and my post HERE.

Find full instructions HERE. All you need to do is skewer a marshmallow with a bamboo stick or lollipop stick and draw your design with edible pens (I prefer Americolor gourmet writers.) Let the marshmallows sit uncovered for a couple hours to stiffen before drawing for better results.

I almost posted this on Thanksgiving, but my mom had said something to me that made me think twice in case she peeked in on this blog. So I am sharing it now. Well, I kind of shared it earlier while it was in the making. I am quite pleased with how it turned out. So was she. And bonus – she was not expecting anything. Makes it that much better

I designed the table runner myself…I can’t call it original exactly since triangles are used like this lots. I decided to make some coaster/trivet/potholder thingies too. They were also a great way to “practice” mitering my corners before I tackled the runner. Quilt corners do not bother me too much since it is wrapped around you when in use. Whereas a runner is displayed for all to see. Although – I think most people look more closely at the yummies placed on the runner than the runner itself. At least at our family feasts

back side of coasters

I think I may make some winter/holiday themed runners as well. I also sketched out a tree skirt with a matching pattern. Whether or not I get to it, who knows. I have a messenger bag duo custom order, ornament swap and 6 bag order all due up in a couple weeks. Does not leave much time for the holiday sewing I had in mind for the shop. Maybe I will make them in January in preparation for next year.

A young woman whom I thoroughly enjoyed last year, but with whom I lost contact due to her being busy with grad school and real life – surfaced yesterday in my e-mail, and I was delighted to hear from her and chat and catch up on what she’s doing these days. A real live native of Sanibel, Florida – which is where I wish I were right now.

She’s a painted canvas designer also, and I had to share this really cute turkey. She also has worked Raymond Crawford’s wonderful turkey – which may be seen on her latest blog post. Do go see both of them, as well as her other recent work, at
Barefoot Needlepoint.

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Accessories
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Visart
http://visart.etsy.com
Holiday sale – 20% off all product orders over $50.00 before shipping (not includes custom orders)
Hand made polymer clay accessories, beads and buttons.

Wild Goose Chase
http://www.WildGooseChase.etsy.com
15% off all items! Refund will be issued through PayPal after payment is received. Enter “Etsy Bloggers Sale” in the message to seller at checkout to receive cash back.
Low priced stocking stuffers including One-Of-A-Kind awesome mirrors.

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Art
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

tapestry316
http://www.tapestry316.etsy.com
Huge sale featuring my watercolor paintings, drawings, ACEOs, altered art book pages, and prints! Check out the SALE SECTION in my shop for great buys – some up to half off!

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Bags and Purses
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Tilt creations
http://tiltcreations.etsy.com
FREE Worldwide Shipping. Mention “Etsybloggers” when checking out and shipping costs will be refunded through Paypal after payment is received.
Handmade handbags and accessories

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Bath and Beauty
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Spotted Cow Soaps
http://spottedcowsoaps.etsy.com
20% off all product orders over $50.00 (before shipping & excludes Special Buys Section)
Special Buys throughout the Sale
We offer handcrafted soaps and toiletries all lovingly made with our own hands.

SweetSallysSoaps
http://sweetsallyssoaps.etsy.com
FREE SHIPPING on anything in my shop!
Fine Handcrafted Soaps and Bath Accessories

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Books and Zines
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

UberArt
http://uberart.etsy.com
Many items will be discounted in my SALE section of my shop. All other items (excluding custom orders) will be 10% off. Write “etsybloggers” in the comment box at checkout and I will send your refund via PayPal.
Unique journals and guest books. Great for the holidays — gifts for teacher, secret santa, hostess gifts, or holiday party guest books!

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Children
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Joey & Aleethea
http://joeyandaleethea.etsy.com
20% OFF EVERYTHING!!!
Super cool custom-made Monster Shirts, Monster Jeans, Monster Onesies, Monster Dresses, Ankle Biters Lounge Pants and more awesome goodness!! Joey & Aleethea™ is a super cutesie boutique for baby boys, baby girls and their peeps! Just say “EtsyBloggers” upon checkout, and I’ll send your refund via Paypal!

Splendid Little Stars
http://SplendidLittleStars.etsy.com
30% off short sleeve T shirts (children and adults) in the HOLIDAY SALE section of my shop! This includes custom orders for all “traditional style” tie dye short sleeve T shirts. Some surprises may pop up in this section as well! 10% off all silk scarves! Prices already marked down!
Unique hand dyed and hand painted (with dye) clothing for children–T shirts, dresses, baby outfits, knotted hats. Some adult items as well! beautiful silk scarves!

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Crochet
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Beautiful Bridget Designs
http://www.etsy.com/shop/beautifulbridget
FREE Worldwide Shipping PLUS and additional 10% off of orders of $100 or more (10% refund to be given through Paypal at end of transaction).
Indie handmade knit, crochet & fabric scarves, cowls, hats, fingerless gloves, fashion accessories, jewelry, bags & purses.

DipYourToes
http://dipyourtoes.etsy.com
15% OFF Everything In Stock. Refund given through Paypal after payment is received.
Awesomely cute and practical gifts and accessories. Handbags, Hair Accessories, Keyfobs, Laptop/Ipod Sleeves, Spa Items, Mug Cozies, Ornaments..etc!
Dolls and Miniatures

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Everything Else
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Simply Digital Designs
http://www.etsy.com/shop/SimplyBannersnAds
10% off EVERYTHING in my shop (refund by paypal)

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Geekery
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

AthenaWorkman
Miss Millificent’s World
http://www.athenaworkman.etsy.com
15% off all items! Refund will be issued through PayPal after payment is received.
Polymer clay miniature “bakery sweets”, discarded dollie charms, 1:12 dollhouse miniatures, photography and associated jewelry.

Lostmitten
http://lostmitten.etsy.com
10% off everything! Just write “etsy bloggers” in comments box at checkout and I will send you a refund back via Paypal for 10% off all handmade goodies!

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Housewares
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Peacoxcreations
http://peacoxcreations.etsy.com
15% off every shop item
Exquisite original design pine needle baskets, each OOAK. Tons of scrubbies perfect for stocking stuffers.

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Jewelry
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

A Keepers Jackpot
http://akeepersjackpot.etsy.com
*Handmade Pendant Sale: BOGO! Buy one full priced pendant, get another for HALF OFF!*
See “Handmade Pendants” section
Discount applied to the lesser priced items, you MAY mix and match, you will receive a complimentary ball chain with each pendant unless specified otherwise. Limit to three half off pendants per customer. Your refund will be sent via PayPal after payment is received.

Charitable Creations Jewelry
http://charitablecreations.etsy.com
15% off everything in my shop!!! Refund given after payment received.
Personalized Hand Stamped and Sterling Silver Hand Made Jewelry – 10% donated to charity of your choice!! Gifts for Everyone!

Fabulous Chic Designs
http://www.fabulouschic.etsy.com
Up to 30% off select items- see shop Sale section for great deals.
Stylish handcrafted jewelry!

Faerie Garden Fancies
http://bunnykissd.etsy.com
10% OFF EVERYTHING! Discount already applied…
Magical polymer clay jewelry and figurines, fanciful art, and more!

Jack & Ella Designs
http://jackandella.etsy.com
Handcrafted Jewelry and Custom Designs
ALL TWILIGHT AND TRUE BLOOD MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE – SEE SHOP’S SALE SECTION FOR DISCOUNTED ITEMS

Linda B’s Beaded Jewelry
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lindab142
Free shipping to US & Canada – please put EtsyBlog in Notes to Seller and I’ll refund your money via PayPal or Convo me prior to payment.

Made By Melissa
http://www.etsy.com/shop/madebymelissa
FREE GIFT with every purchase
Beaded jewelry and crochet toys and accessories

MagdaleneJewels
http://www.etsy.com/shop/magdalenejewels
Necklaces, Bracelets, Earrings all made with Swarovski Crystals – 15% off + free shipping during our Holiday Sale. Please convo me if you are interested in any item, so that I can adjust the price and Reserve it for you!

Mama’s Magic Studio
http://mamasmagicstudio.etsy.com
Free shipping, free gift wrap for jewelry items (on request), and for orders over $50 buyer chooses a free gift! Mention “Etsybloggers” when checking out and shipping costs will be refunded to Paypal. See shop announcement for more details.
Unique jewelry, handcrafted knitting needles (as seen in Interweave Knits!), baubles, and bird’s nest pendants customized for the Mama in your life.

Mystic Wynd
http://etsy.com/shop/mysticwynd
Up to 50% off selected items – see shop sale section for great buys! Pricing will be marked down, so no waiting for a Refund!
Great Jewelry and accessories – something for everyone!
Free standard shipping World wide too!

Punky Jane Jewelry
http://PunkyJane.etsy.com
FREE WORLDWIDE STANDARD SHIPPING on everything in my shop! Use ‘EtsyBlogger’ in the message to seller box and shipping will be refunded via PayPal.
Handcrafted and personalized jewelry perfect for everyone on your list!

Sparkly Park
http://SparklyPark.etsy.com
20% off all jewelry! Free shipping in USA for all shop orders over $50 (after discount)! Refund given after payment received.
Lovely hand crafted sterling silver and beaded jewelry makes great gifts and stocking stuffers! Paper products, too–cards, tags, die cuts.

storybeader
http://storybeader.etsy.com
15% off all necklaces and sets in the shop, refund sent after payment received.
Ethnic jewelry with a personal haiku!

Sumikoshop
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Sumikoshop
FREE SHIPPING WORLWIDE
on all items in my shop,
Shipping has been adjusted to zero already!
Handmade Jewelry and Accessories !!

SunshineDaydreamz
http://SunshineDaydreamz.etsy.com
Buy one get one of equal or lesser value 50% off! Your savings will be refunded via PayPal, or contact me before checking out for a revised invoice.
One of a kind hand crafted jewelry for men and women, with a California touch. Plus vintage and supplies. Store wide holiday sale!

Sykin’s One Stop Twilight Shop
http://sykin.etsy.com
2 FREE 4×6 photos from La Push or Forks, Washington with every purchase!
Twilight inspired jewelry & fanfare

The Grand Design
http://www.etsy.com/shop/cjgrand
10% off all regular price items plus check out the Sale section for 20% off a variety of items.
Steampunk, Healing Stones and other unique handcrafted jewelry by CJGrand.

Tokyo Vogue Designs
http://tokyovogue.etsy.com
15% Off ALL ITEMS (refund by paypal)
Pretty Handmade Resin Items & Genuine Gemstone Jewelry

Tulips Treasure Box
http://www.etsy.com/shop/TulipsTreasureBox
$100 off everything over $300, fast refund through paypal after payment received. No prices have been raised to make this “sale”. Beautiful artisan designed and created jewelry, most one-of-a-kind.

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Knitting
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

DizzyDragonflies
http://DizzyDragonflies.etsy.com
Hand Dyed Yarns
Free shipping! Refund will be sent via PayPal after payment is received.

foxygknits
http://foxygknits.etsy.com
10% off all items in shop (excluding shipping) including those items that are currently on sale. Refund will be sent via PayPal after payment is received.
Hand knit scarves, shawls and wraps for today’s women

Miesmama
http://miesmama.etsy.com
Free Shipping to anywhere in the World!
Felted bags, bowls, garlands and goodies!

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Paper Goods
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

CHRISTINA STUDIO DESIGNS
http://chrissywatson.etsy.com
Everything in my shop is 10% off. Just write “etsy blogger” in comments box at checkout and I will send you a refund back via Paypal for 10% off all handmade goodies. PLUS : Order two of any card set and get FREE matching return address labels, Just send me the address you want on them in the convo.

CREATEaTHOUGHT
http://createathought.etsy.com
20% off!
Journals, Rings, Magnets, Things!

Memories for Life Scrapbooks
http://memoriesforlifesb.etsy.com
20% off everything in my S*A*L*E* section…prices will already be marked down…no need to wait for a revised invoice
Memories for Life Scrapbooks…Scrapbooks and More

OUR SCRAPBOOK MEMORIES
http://ourscrapbookmemories.etsy.com
20% off All Paper Piecings-Singles or Sets!
Paper Piecings, Mini Albums, Premade Pages & Cards

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Patterns
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

A Vision to Remember
http://avisiontoremember.etsy.com
bogo sale on all patterns Buy 1 Get 1 Free nov 25-30

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Pets
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

NanjoDogz
http://nanjodogz.etsy.com
10% off all items in shop excluding shipping. Mention Etsy Bloggers Sale in the Notes to Seller and the refund will be sent after payment is received.
Polymer Clay Dog Collectibles including ornaments, sculpture, beads and more.

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Vintage
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Indulge Your Shelf
http://indulgeyourshelf.etsy.com
25% OFF EVERYTHING EXCEPT BUTTONS! Write “ETSY BLOGGERS SALE” in the Notes to Seller and discount refund will be refunded to your PayPal account.
Fabulous and Funky Vintage and Antique Finds — Decor, Linens, Artwork

*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*
Weddings
*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

Patch First Shop
http://patchfirstshop.etsy.com
10% OFF IN EVERY ITEMS + FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING via Registered Airmail
Please mark “EtsyBloggers Holiday Sale” with order comment, discount refund will be turned to your PayPal account.
Bridal Custom Jewelry and Handmade Swarovski Jewelry