The Summer of Color Wrap-Up

Here it is…the final week of The Summer of Color challenge that is being hosted by Kristen at Twinkle Like a Star. This has been such a wonderful project, and helped motivate me to:

– do some projects that I’ve wanted to do for a long time,
– create new window star patterns,
– try existing window star patterns in different colors, and
– make a quilt.

Projects I’ve Wanted to Do

I did several embroidery projects during the weeks when the featured color was pink and green.

Pink hand-embroidered greeting cards.

Green hand-embroidered Dala horse and tree.

They can be used as ornaments or tags.

For the Blue Week, I did some sewing projects – a bunting and tablecloth.

Blue bunting.

Tablecloth that I made by tracing puzzle pieces

onto pieces of fabric. Each are hand-cut and then ironed onto

the white fabric using an iron-on adhesive.

Create New Window Star Patterns as well as Use Existing Patterns to Make Window Stars in New Colors

For many of the weeks, I enjoyed making window stars in a variety of colors. It was fun to create new patterns and see what the new window star would turn out like.

Trio of purple window stars.

The pattern on the bottom is one I created.

Equally exciting for me was to see what window stars look like in different colors using patterns that I normally use.

Trio of brown window stars.

Two orange window stars.

I’ve made these patterns before, but never in orange.

The pattern on the left is one I’ve used before, and

the pattern on the right is a new one I created.

Two yellow window stars. The pattern on the left is one I created

and the one on the right is one I’ve made in different colors

but never in yellow until The Summer of Color challenge.

Creating a Quilt

My on-going project during the summer was a quilt. Each week, after the color was assigned, I created two quilt blocks that were about 11 1/2″ square. Each square included seven different patterns of fabric – to represent the seven days of the week.

My goal was to use only fabric, thread, and batting that I had on hand.  This wasn’t a challenge when I was doing the squares – it seemed like I had plenty of fabric to choose from.

Five weeks’ worth of quilt squares.

However, once I got to the backing and batting, it became a bit more difficult. I didn’t have either the fabric or batting in the size I needed for the quilt. So, I had to piece both elements together to create the quilt.

The batting needed to be hand-sewn in order to attach each piece to one another (there were three pieces of batting used). For the quilt back, I used one of Sophia’s floral-print sheets and cut about a six-inch section off the end.

By cutting that in length-wise and sewing the pieces together, I was able to create enough fabric to sew to the other piece…thereby creating a quilt backing.

Quilt squares bordered by 3″ white fabric strips.

The white fabric strips are from

bed linens that were discarded from a hotel.

I washed the sheets and was able

to use the fabric to make the quilt.

What I like about the quilt is that it is made entirely from fabric, thread, and batting that I had on hand. I didn’t have to purchase anything to make it!

The Summer of Color quilt that I made

during June-August 2011.

Lots of color will be welcome during the middle of winter

when the landscape is all white and

the temperature is well below zero.

Sophia, Olivia, and I will use this

soft, colorful quilt when

we homeschool and read together.

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Orange – The Summer of Color (Week 8)

For those of you who also have been participating in The Summer of Color and/or who are following along each week, thank you for all the positive comments about what I’ve made each week. Thanks to

During the challenge, I’ve enjoyed creating a variety of window stars and quilt squares in each of the featured colors. The encouraging and uplifting comments have been such day-brighteners for me!  Thank you! 

I’ve been enjoying seeing the creativity and beautiful items that the participants create each week. It’s amazing how diverse all the items are even though we are all using the same color. 

For this week, Kristin assigned the color orange. So, I made two orange window stars that have 16 points each.  Each star is made with a special translucent paper that lets the sun’s light shine through and illuminate the pattern.

Orange window star to brighten a room.

This past week I had an interesting thing happen: a hummingbird visited one of the window stars I made that had four colors in it: red, orange, yellow, and pink.

It hovered around the window star for quite a while which was such a treat to see!

I’m wondering if the hummingbird will come back

this week and visit the window stars.

I added a couple more orange stars on August 2nd:

I usually don’t make a lot of orange window stars,

but the summer sun seems to make the patterns more defined.

I finished two more quilt squares so there are now 16 squares ready to be made into a quilt. 

Two quilt squares in orange-patterned fabric.

I’m beginning to think about how to put all the squares together into The Summer of Color Quilt. I’m committed to only using what I have on hand, and it looks like white is the color of fabric that I have the most of – so that will (most likely) be the background of the front of the quilt (in between each of the squares).

The back side of the quilt will be the twin sheet that my daughter no longer uses. It’s a very soft cotton with a high thread count.

It has images of lavender pale lavender violets with a plum- and yellow-color center.  There are 1-2 leaves behind each flower.

With purple and green as my favorite colors, this seemed to be the best piece of fabric for the backing.

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Red – The Summer of Color (Week 6)

I can’t believe this is already Week 6 of The Summer of Color challenge. This week’s color is red; and I did a couple of things with this color.

First, I made two red window stars. They are made from translucent paper that lets the light shine through so the pattern of the star is revealed. 

Two red origami window stars.

The 8-pointed star with the sharp points is folded 9 times per point. With eight points, it is folded 72 times before it is glued together.

The other star I made is folded 19 times per point. With 8 points, it is folded 152 times before being glued together.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I also made two quilt squares this week. There are twelve squares now…the quilt is coming along.

Two red quilt squares. Seven different fabrics are used for each square

to represent seven days in the week.

As I mentioned last week, I’m using only fabric that I have on hand for the quilt. I’m not purchasing anything new. It’s definitely one of the most resouceful, “make do” quilts I’ve made. Only four more weeks left – or eight quilt squares – before I’m able to start arranging them and laying out the quilt top. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Although the red isn’t as vivid on this little bird as it is on adult robins, it fits the challenge of incorporating something winged into your work (in this case, a quick photo).

I was walking to the garden on Friday afternoon, and a ball of feathers moved on the ground.  A baby robin had fallen from its nest.

Baby robin on the ground.

It was quiet for a while, but very curious and eager to be fed.

When I moved the camera a bit closer,

it opened its mouth slowly to be fed.

After a call to the wildlife rehabilitation center, they said that it would be fine to pick up the bird and put it back in the nest if it had not already flown back up to the nest. Birds have a very weak sense of smell, so there’s not a problem with the mother rejecting the baby.

By the time I went back outside, the baby bird had flown back into the nest. I felt so lucky to have been able to see the young bird at this stage of its life. Normally, the robin nests are so high and well-protected that the young ones are not visible until they are fully-grown.

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EtsyKids Team Christmas In July Sale



Harvest Moon by Hand is a member of the EtsyKids team, and
is participating in its annual 
EtsyKids Team Christmas In July Sale!

 There are two ways to visit the team shops: 

1. Use the links below to visit each shop.
(A link to Harvest Moon by Hand’s shop and the discount code is below.)

2. Go to http://www.etsy.com and in the search box use EK christmasinjuly or EK CIJ
to view some of the many items available for sale.

Please enjoy and take advantage of these great sale, deals, and steals!

Hurry the team sale is from July 14th – 31st!

Here is a list of participating shops that are having a sale:

2 Sprouts Stitchery

Stitched Stuff for Families to use and love everyday!
Sewing for babies, kids, and moms. 10% off entire store with coupon code: christmasinjuly

AliBeanBaby
Infant through size 8 little girl’s clothing and nursing covers
10% off  all items except already discounted items in my sample/discounted section   coupon code is CIJ10

Alittlerosiebowtique
Hairbows, headbands, hair clips,pony tail holders, etc.
Offering 25% off entire purchase. using coupon code CIJ25

Auntie Robin 
Clothing for little girls and quilts for babies and toddlers.
All in-stock items will be included in sale at 15% off with coupon code JULY15.

Aunty Ann Designs  
Wild, Fun and Unique Sock Monkeys.
Bonus will be “free” name embroidery with sock monkey or blankey purchase.  Be sure to put EKBONUS in comments at checkout with the name. Plus a special 10% discount when using the code EKSAVE10 at checkout on all purchases.
 
Ava Bowtique  
I sell all kinds of hair accessories.
All items will be 10% off.
 
babe-a-gogo    
Christmas themed lounge pants on sale.
The lounge pants will have free shipping.
 
BabyChicCreations 
Custom-made clothing and accessories for babies and toddlers.
Offering free shipping on select items and 15% all car cozies and crayon rolls
 
Baresockcrafts  
I sell baby and kids toys and christmas ornaments.
I will offer 15% entire store coupon code Christmas10.

Bebbyjumpers 
I sell quality handknits for babies and children.
10% discount off the purchase price coupon code is ~ xmasjuly2011
 
berchtasbelly1  
30% off sale on anything red in my shop.
 
Bethanys5  
Photo prop crochet hats. 
All holiday items 20% off.
 
Bibs Blankets and More  
Bibs, receiving blankets, baby gift baskets, nursing pillow covers. 
Promo: Free Shipping
 
BillieTK  
I sell fine art and art prints for children’s rooms and the young at heart.
Use code FREESHIP for free shipping (domestically) on anything in the shop.
 
BirdsongBows  
Accessories and patterns. 
15% off storewide.
 
Bison Girl  
Bison Booties (soft-sole infant/baby/toddler booties made with designer cotton fabrics). 
15% off all Bison Booties with code “SUMMER15.
 
Blush and Bashful Studio  
Crochet designs for all ages.
Free Shipping Promo.
 
blushprintables  
I design photo cards and invitations for birthdays, parties, and events.
15% off all photo cards.
 
Brandisbowboutique  
Bows, clips, hats, botties and other crocheted items. 
25% off your entire order.
 
BronStar Originals  
Growth Charts, Art Prints, Bow Holders. 
Free Shipping(Excluding Stretched Canvas).
 
BurpieBundles 
BOGO Half Off Wristlet Key Fobs.
Coupon Code is BOGOFOB… Users are also required to “”Like”” my Facebook Page.

Chew Chew’s Closet
Children’s clothing and accessories.
15% off your total order excluding shipping Coupon code: ChristmasinJuly.

Childishthoughts 
Childrens toys, example: crayon rolls, tool belts, car rolls, crayon aprons and some fun dressin up dresses. My sale will be 20% entire purchase.

ChipperCuteGirl
Elementary school memory books for mothers and daughters.
20% off storewide using code “EtsyKids20”.

christinamcdaniel
I am going to have lots of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas shirts listed and all will be buy one get one half off!

CollieOllieDesigns 
I sell children’s clothing — skirts, dresses, onesies, t-shirts, and more
offering 25% off your entire order.

crocheting4baby {aka Tutus & Tea Parties} 
Crochet beanies and blankets, handpainted baby bodysuits, and tutus.
All will be included in the sale Free Shipping.

Cuckooboo 
Hair accessories for kids, pacifier clips for babies, badge clips and stethoscope tags for adults.
15% off everything.

CupcakeDream 
Photo Birthday Invitations and Party Supplies.
15% off all birthday invitations with code: JULYSAVE.

cutieflair 
Cute items you’ll find in my shop: cloth dolls, cloth baby dolls, headbands, aprons, print artwork,original nursery paintings.
50% in most of my handmade items with tag: EK Christmasinjuly Free shipping in most of my items with tag: EK Christmasinjuly.

CutiesTieDyeBoutique 
Custom Party Invitations and Decorations, Personalized TShirts.
15% off of Entire Purchase – Use Coupon Code ETSYKIDSROCK.

DaniJoDesigns 
I make felt sets, felt boards to go, felt animal masks and felt books.
15% off entire purchase excluding felt books. coupon codechristmasinjuly15.

Dapple Gray Designs 
Clothes that are cute & comfortable for little boys and sweet & sassy for little girls! – dresses, shirts, skirts. 40% off entire purchase (excluding shipping) – Code CIJ40.

Darcey Lane Designs 
Sassy Ruffle Fancy Pants (Bloomers), pillowcase dress. Christmas outfits, birthday outfits.
15% off.

Denise Jacobson- Momma Fix 
Little girl dresses sizes 6 months-9 years.
My sale will be 40% off entire stock of dresses.

Dinos In Space 
One of a kind felt applique wall pieces for kids of all ages.
I am going to be having a 20% off sale of everything in the shop, plus I slashed the shipping charges!

Dragonfly Bowtique 
Hair Accessories.
30% off using code christmasinjuly Spend $25 and receive a free item (buyer does not choose this item).

Fairy Godmother for Hire 
Selling children’s dress up costumes.
Free shipping to the US coupon code SandyClaws.

felted kitten 
Felt crowns
All items in my shop will be 10% – 50% off.

goldenneedlecreation 
I sell natural, Waldorf inspired toys, dolls and pretty treasures for children of all ages!
I will offer free shipping coupon code XMASINJULY1.
All items in my shop will be included in the Christmas in July special.

GrannyZann 
Children’s Clothing, Accessories, Granny’s Little Blessing Dolls.
Entire shop will be on sale Free Shipping US. Discounted shipping Everywhere Else. use code FREESHIP.

Harvest Moon by Hand 
Origami window stars/suncatchers, hand-embroidered/all-natural toys for children; needlefelted toys made from all-natural sheep wool; PDF patterns, children’s accessories, and crafting supplies.

Everything is for sale in the shop! Use code EKCIJ10 to get 10% off everything in the shop (products only; not on shipping).

himama 
Changing pad covers, fun pillow cases, and coffee clutches.
Free shipping as my promo with the purchase code of 711ChristmasinJuly.

jencdesigns 
I sell custom, handmade art, clothing for children, and drawings.
20% off anything plus a free surprise gift with each purchase.

jjkgirlythings 
Baby, girls some teen and adult hair accessories.
Offering 30% off discount on entire order.

Kidz Wiz Padz 
Waterproof Carseat Padz-Great for potty training on-the-go!
Buy one, Get one 1/2 off coupon code KWPCIJ.

Kind Living Designs 
Personalized gift items.
will be on sale a % off.

Knitstyle 
Stylish Cloth Play Blocks and hand knit items.
BUY 1 MEDIUM sized cloth play block, get 1 FREE.

Kooky Critters 
Tooth fairy pillows, baby blankets, t-shirts, bed pillows and plush critters.
Use coupon code LSLSL10DIS for 10% off anything in my shop!

laniec1- Niah Bella 
Custom kids clothing and a few other tidbits.
Get free shipping all month and on all items by using coupon code FreeShip.

Lil.B.Designs 
Creative on-the-go-fun for young Picassos: art folios, crayon rolls, and Dine.n.Doodle mats.
Free Shipping (worldwide) on children’s products.

lillollipop 
I sell lil ones clothes and things for baby or lil ones rooms.
FREE shipping to USA all through July and a free custom painting for your lil one.

Linda’s Krafty Kreations 
I sell felt quiet books and toys and stuffed animals .
offering 15% off of any purchase before shipping.

Little Miss Iz 
Little girls Skirts and leggings – size 12 months to 6T.
15% off entire purchase, shipping not included. Code CIJ15.

Little Purple Dragonfly 
Boutique Hair Accessories and so much more!
15% off using Code: CIJSave15.

Little Sweetie Boutique 
Little girls pillowcase dresses & skirts.
10% off all items.

looploft 
Fiber arts made with repurposed + natural materials… softies, tooth fairy pillows, wall art, fiber jewelry, party decor and lots more!
10% off entire shop and free shipping on christmas stockings.

Lovely’s Baby Boutique
Diaper Cakes/Cupcakes, Hair Clips, Boutique Diaper Wipe Cases.
15% off entire purchase.

Lucy Mae Designs
Boys Tie Shirts and Hair Accessories.
FREE SHIPPING on all hair accessories .

MaggieHeirlooms 
Heirloom Children’s Clothing .
10% off (coupon code CHRISTMAS) on all new custom orders that are paid in full.
25% off (coupon code RTS25) on all “Ready To Ship” items.

mandag433 
Specialize in newborn – children photography props including hats and booties. I have a great red and green stocking hat, with jingle bells that is a big seller for christmas pictures!
Offering 20% off items in my shop.

Markoos Modern Design
Modern Kid’s clothing and accessories.
Offering a 15% discount on all purchases with code – 711XMAS.

maxandmagnolia 
Specialize in hand dyed & stenciled baby onesies, but sell paci clips, look books, & I SPY bean bags.
FREE SHIPPING.

Michelle’s Zoo 
Stuffed Animals.
20% entire purchase coupon code is CIJ20.

Monkeys ‘N Munchkins 
Children’s jewelry (baptism, flower girl, big sister/big brother, everyday, special occasions).
15% off entire purchase with code “july15”.

My Little Angel Co. 
Diaper cakes, baby shower items, hair clips, beanie caps, and headbands.
40% off hair clips and headbands, coupon code is SANTASWEATIN.

My Little Pixies 
Creative Hair Accessories All Christmas and Holiday items will be marked.
15% off. These items will be featured in the “Christmas Preview 2011” category in my shop.

My Lovebug Baby 
Useful items for mom and baby.
Free Shipping to US & Canada with code: FREESHIP.

My True Nature 
Natural & organic kids bath products.
30% off using code “christmasinjuly”.

MyArtsyBaby 
Everything! Custom children’s wall art, canvas & wood growth charts, wood surfboards, wood dolls.
Use coupon code OPENJULY for 20% off everything!

Nana Brown’s 
Insulated Lunch Bags, Reusable Sandwich Bags, Sun Hats, Travel Crayon Caddies, Baby Bibs, Cosmetic Bags, and more.
15% off purchase, excluding postage. Coupon code FIFTEEN.

Nikki, In Stitches 
Handmade hair accessories.
15% off storewide…coupon code JULY15.

Northwoods Toys 
Felt play food and plushies.
Free Shipping promo.

NotyBaby
Handmade children’s accessories: blankets, car seat canopies, bibs, burpies, paci-bibs, changing mats, pillow shams, nursing covers & adult throws.
15% off all items during CIJ promo event  Use coupon code: JULYXMAS.

OriginaliTeeToo 
Embroidered hair bows, bottle cap hairbows, embroidered clothing and accessories.
Offering FREE SHIPPING on any order over $20.

PetalPetal 
Children’s couture including modern, customizable birthday and flower girl outfits.
Enter SUMMERISFORLOVE for 20% off your entire order!

Pickled Beads Jewelry 
All children’s jewelry.
Free Shipping (Domestic (US) Orders Only).

Pink Stripe 
We make Fun and Funky Goodies for Children and their Families. Sale items include tie shirts, birthday shirts, tulle cupcake aprons and lots of other fun goodies!!
HUGE sample sale on ready to ship items– plus low flat rate shipping for unlimited sale items.

pippiclippis 
Felt play food, unique plushies and rattles among other kids goodies.
Free US shipping for july- JULYSHIP coupon code.

QuiltedHugsBibs
Infants/toddler quilted waterproof bibs/sets & coordinating paci clips – all bibs are individually quilted .
Use FREESHIP at checkout.

Red Baby by Redrane 
Baby and Toddler Items – Swaddling blankets, burpies, car seat blankets, some OOAK clothing.
10-35% off selected items.

Reet Momma 
Make personalized xmas stockings and each one is uniquely designed for the person.

Snuggly Monkey 
Ouchie Pouches, Toys and Accessories.
Certain items are 20-25% off – look for the “CIJ SALE” in the title (including my Snuggly Baby Dolls!); And 10% off all non-CIJ SALE items with CIJSALE coupon code.

sugarbumps creations 
Unique children’s appliques, accessories, and clothing.
20% off any purchase coupon code  JULYSALE.

Sunny Brook Farm Design 
Specific items marked down with “Sale” in the title.

SweeterThanSweets 
All holiday items – hooded towels, hair clips, etc. – will be on sale.
20% off all holiday items.

Swirly Sensations
Tie dyed items (tshirts, dresses, bags..etc).
FREE SHIPPING on all READY TO SHIP items.

The Bitsy Beau
Childrens hair accessories and hand knit hats.
Entire store is 15% off with coupon code CIJ15 and a free gift with $25 or more purchased.

The Little LOVE Bug 
Felt Play Food.
Use coupon code LOVE15BUG for 15% off your order.

The Lollipop Boutique 
Hair accessories (bows, clips, headbands etc), Baby wipe cases.

the trendy tot 
Red Snow Flake Jumper and other items are also available in the sale section.

The Trendy Tot Shop 
Tutus, tutu outfits, and flower headbands. Everything will be on sale.
10% off everything just enter coupon code christmasinjuly.

The Voodoo Kitten- Cranky Cat Studio 
Baby and toddler items including blankets, bibs, burps, clothing, hair accessories, diaper bags, and more. 20% off everything.

Trendy Tykes- TTykes 
Embroidered items for Infants, Toddlers & Moms.
I will have my Cookies & Milk Place Mat & my Princess Playwear Jacket on sale @ 20% off plus free shipping on both items.

TwoLovebugs 
Baby blankets, burp cloths etc.
Everything will be 20% off with coupon code JulyXmas.

TZ Burps 
Plush owls and birds and other gifts for children.
20% off purchase with coupon code Julyxmas.

Villa Pernilla 
A free snackbag with every order in my shop.

WalterSilva aka: Silva Ware 
Kid’s Decor, Original ART, Wall Plaques, Wall Sculptures .
Everything in the Shop 15% off.

Zoe Girl Designs
Children’s Clothing Boutique.
Buy 2 items and receive the 3rd item 50% off (3rd item must be of equal or less value).

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Flowers in Gardens and Homeschooling + Blog Hop

Summer is a time of flowers and this month, the Unique Women in Business team is hosting a Flower Garden theme blog hop.

In June, my daughters, a friend from college visiting from Arizona, and I visited a conservatory that had a beautiful display of summer flowers. The flowers’ fragrance could be smelled even before entering the room where they were located.

One of the flowers at the conservatory.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

This week I made a new bunting that uses floral prints in every color of the rainbow.

Each flag on the bunting uses floral fabric.

The bunting is 8 1/2 feet long and uses a variety of fabic that I had on hand. Making buntings has been a wonderful way to use fabric and create something useful.

Buntings are available in my shop –

Harvest Moon by Hand

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I’ve begun planning for the upcoming homeschool year. One of the things I’m going to have Sophia begin this year is a “Book of Mottoes.” This idea came from Simply Charlotte Mason, a great resource for homeschooling following the Charlotte Mason method.

According to the Simply Charlotte Mason website, “Charlotte Mason encouraged that very activity for our children. ‘In the reading of the Bible, of poetry, of the best prose, the culling of mottoes is a delightful and most stimulating occupation, especially if a motto book be kept, perhaps under headings, perhaps not’ (Vol. 3, p. 135).”

Sophia could practice her best handwriting as she carefully copies sayings that are meaningful to her from the books she is reading and from a collection of quotes and poems I’ve found.

One quote I’m adding to the collection comes from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (a poet she learned about in fourth grade) who mentions flowers in his poem:

Kind hearts are the gardens

Kind thoughts are the roots

Kind words are the flowers

Kind deeds are the fruits

Take care of your garden

And keep out the weeds

Fill it with sunshine

Kind words and kind deeds

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Also with planning the homeschool year, I’m always looking for recipes that the girls and I can try that tie into something we’re learning. During the summer, we planted nasturiums so they could try edible flowers. The first flower bloomed the other day and more flowers should be following soon.

One of the things we’ll be trying this year is a nasturium salad with lettuce, green onions, and nasturiums from the garden. This is what inspired us to plant nasturiums:

Nasturium Salad

Photo Source

If you have pictures of flowers, art work that you’ve created with a floral theme, or a recipe that uses edible flowers…or any other item you’ve made that includes flowers, please add your link below.

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Yellow – The Summer of Color (Week 4)

I’ve been enjoying the past three weeks of The Summer of Color challenge. Week 4 is no different.  This week’s color is yellow, and I made two origami window stars. 

Both of the window stars use some of the folds that I regularly use in the suncatchers I make, but each one is my own design.

The star on the left side is folded 11 times per point. With 8 points, that’s 88 folds to make the star. The suncatcher on the right side is folded 17 times per point. With 8 points, it is folded 136 times.

By playing around a bit with the size of the paper used for each point, the way that the points are folded, and then the final arrangement of the points – it’s possible to create a variety of different suncatchers.

I’m also working on a multi-week/multi-color quilt. Each quilt square will have a variety of fabric prints all in one color.  For each week of The Summer of Color challenge, I’m making two quilt squares.  Nothing fancy…just 7 rows of fabric of various widths. The final size of each quilt square is 12 inches x 12 inches. 

By the time the challenge is done, I’ll have 20 fabric squares – enough to make a nice size quilt while using up scraps of fabric.

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Red, White, and Blue – UWIB Blog Hop

Each month the Unique Women in Business (UWIB) team does blog hop. This month’s theme is “Red, White, and Blue.”

What immediately comes to mind for me is the 4th of July (also known as Independence Day).  There are plenty of parades, picnics, fireworks, and other events to celebrate the day.  But why are we celebrating it?

According to the History.com website:

July 4th has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution (1775-83).

In June 1776, representatives of the 13 colonies then fighting in the revolutionary struggle weighed a resolution that would declare their independence from Great Britain. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson.

From 1776 until the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades, and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.

What are some ways to create a festive environment at home to celebrate the 4th of July? 

Reusable Fabric Bunting

This year, I made some red, white, and blue buntings to decorate the home and yard.  I made some extra ones that are available in my shop, Harvest Moon by Hand.

Red, white, and blue bunting

available at Harvest Moon by Hand.

Table Runner

In a past issue of Home Companion magazine, there was a picture of a table runner made from kraft paper that had flowers and circles cut from decorative paper sewn on with red thread.  I thought it would be nice to have something special for the table that is a bit more permanent.

So, I picked out tan linen fabric, red thread, fabric in red, white, and blue patterns. I cut out different sizes of circles and then sewed them randomly onto the fabric.  After that, I hand-embroidered each circle onto the fabric using the blanket-stitch.

Hand-embroidered table runner

with red-thread accent lines.

Origami Centerpiece

My daughters and I made this centerpiece by making origami cranes from scrapbooking paper, and punching circles from red, white, and blue scrapbooking paper.  We hung the cranes and circles on branches that were placed in a vase.  There are red and white glass pieces at the bottom of the vase.

Vase with origami cranes and

red, white, and blue paper ornaments.

Window Stars

I also like to decorate with red, white, and blue window stars.  There are many different patterns available at Harvest Moon by Hand including the trio of stars below.

The red, white, and blue window stars are available here:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/26133811/fourth-of-july-trio-of-window-stars

If you would like to see what other women on the UWIB team created for the Red, White, and Blue Blog Hop, please visit the websites below:

RitaWetzel http://handmadebits4u.blogspot.com/

JudyWoodley http://wellspringcreations.blogspot.com/

LindaStranger http://capecodjewel.blogspot.com/

TrudyMiller http://mommagoddesstreasures.blogspot.com/

Wendy Kelly http://blog.vintageday.com/

Miriam Nelken http://goldcrestbags.blogspot.com/

RobinKoehler http://nestlingsbyrobin.blogspot.com/

Cory Trusty http://store.aquarianbath.com/index.php/blog

AudreyFetterhoff http://audreygardenlady.blogspot.com/

Janet Bocciardi http://thehoneyfromthebee.blogspot.com/

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Handmade Party Buntings and Garlands

One of the Etsy teams I’m on is EtsyKids.  Each month there is a challenge, and for June it is “Party!” It’s all about fun, sparkle, confetti, buntings, games, and cupcakes.  By going to Etsy and using the search code EKchallengejun11 you’ll see a wide variety of party items.  Here’s the LINK that will take you directly to all the items that were made.

I chose to make a Fourth of July bunting (also known as a garland) for the challenge.  I’ve seen quite a few on the internet and thought I’d try my hand at making one. 

4th of July Fabric Bunting

Available here:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/76158131/fourth-of-july-bunting-reusable-fabric

In addition to the bunting for the challenge, I also made a blue one for Olivia to use for her upcoming half-birthday in July.

Two buntings: one for Olivia’s half birthday;

and one for the 4th of July.

Buntings are a great way to use up fabric on hand or reuse fabric.  I’ve seen some buntings that are single sided and cut with a pinking shears.  However, they can only be viewed from one side.  I chose to sew two pieces of fabric together for each flag, so the bunting looks nice from each side.

Because the sides are finished, the bunting can be machine-washed and ironed. The fabric won’t fray since there are no raw edges.

When making or purchasing a bunting, most people choose by favorite color or pattern; coordinate with their home design; or match with their party/special event theme.  Custom buntings can be made (either by oneself or by hiring someone who can sew).  Imagine a bunting for a child’s birthday or graduation made from her/his clothes throughout the years.  What a special – and meaningful – decoration to celebrate a milestone. 

Buntings are reusable, eco-friendly decorations – both for festive celebrations as well as everyday decor for walls, windows, or rooms.  Rather than using decorations that are disposable and end up in a landfill, using decorations that can be used year after year is good for the environment…and is something that children (and parents) look forward to bringing out and using each year.   

What are some handmade decorations that you’ve made…or that you remember your parents using when you were a child?

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What is Creativity and Success?

Over at Creating My Way to Success, Jill interviewed me about what I create and my definition of success.  I’ve included my interview below if you’d like to read it.

After you’re done at Harvest Moon by Hand’s blog, I’d like to encourage you to visit Creating My Way to Success.  I originally found out about Jill’s blog through her weekly “Round Tuit” post.  She features inspiring work made by several people each week, and then anyone can link a project they’ve completed (craft, cooking, or anything creative).

As Jill says, “…maybe it’s a project you’ve completed that you’re proud of – something you have wanted to get done for a while and need some extra motivation to get going on it – or you’d just like some of that fabulous encouragement, praise, and motivation that bloggers are so good at spreading around.”

She also has a section on her blog for clothes upcyling projects which over 100 people submitted projects to – including photos and tutorials.  It’s an excellent resource if you want to find a new purpose for old clothes…and make a positive difference on the environment.

After my interview, there’s a link for you to include your blog.  By visiting and following one another’s blogs, we spread the word about all the creativity out there…and countless inspiring ideas!

Here’s my interview with Jill (Jill’s questions are in bold type; my answers are in regular type):

What do you create?

When I think of what I create, I divide the items into three different groups:  things that I sell, share, or support. 

SELLING

My main way of selling some of the things that I create is through my shop on Etsy, Harvest Moon by Hand.  My goal is to help people enhance their homes by offering natural products which are calming and uplifting; and inspire creative and imaginative play in children.

Window stars that are available at

Harvest Moon by Hand.

I do this by:

– Creating handcrafted items made of natural, quality materials.

Hand-poured beeswax impression

available at Harvest Moon by Hand.

– Creating imagination-inspired, eco-conscious items from materials that would normally be recycled thereby lessening the impact on the environment.

Handmade bears with miniature bunting

made from a felted wool sweater.

Available at Harvest Moon by Hand.

SHARING

Another way that I create is sharing ideas through writing.  My blog, also named Harvest Moon by Hand, focuses on a variety of subjects, and gives readers a “behind-the-scenes” of what life is like at Harvest Moon and what provides the inspiration for its products. 

Set of needlefelted alphabet cards that I made

to help my daughters learn their letters

and corresponding sounds. 

The wool cards also can be used for spelling words.

Some of the topics I tend to write more about on my blog include: art, education, embroidery, family traditions, food/recipes, holidays, homeschooling, nature, reading, and sewing. 

Hand-embroidered journal quilt I made during 2010. 
This quilt is one of twelve that were made monthly for a year.

More information about the journal quilts and

what they symbolize are at Harvest Moon by Hand’s blog.

SUPPORTING

A third way that I create is by supporting my family by making or doing things for personal or family use. Some of the ways that I create on a day-to-day basis for my family are by:

– Making healthy meals and trying new recipes;
– Creating family traditions; and making good memories that the girls can look back on when they are older;
– Developing a personalized curriculum for each of my daughters based on their educational needs;
– Sewing clothes or quilts;
– Making sensory items and a memory quilt for my dad who has Alzheimer’s Disease;
– Making hand-embroidered toys; and
– Crocheting blankets.

I helped Sophia make sugar cookies one afternoon

after reading a book about a girl who made cookies.

She formed the dough into letters,

spelling the words “Family” and “Love.”

Why do you create?

That’s a good question.  In some ways, I think that asking me why I create is like asking me “Why do you breathe?” or “Why do you eat?”  Both breathing and eating are necessary to sustain life. 

I consider creating and creative expression – whether it’s a product, a memory, something to eat, a lesson plan, or playing a song on the piano – ways to sustain and enhance others’ lives as well as my own.  

Do you sell your creations? If so, how? Where?

I sell some of the items that I create through my shop (Harvest Moon by Hand) on Etsy.  What I enjoy about having a presence on the internet is that my work has been purchased by individuals and businesses throughout the world – including many states in the United States, Canada, Brazil, several countries in Europe, Australia, and Japan.

Pattern for a hand-embroidered activity book

available at Harvest Moon by Hand.

An equally important part of running a business is giving back to the community.  A couple of years ago, a local church asked me to make window stars for their fellowship hall/welcoming area.  I donated about 20 stars that they displayed in the windows around their Christmas tree.

One of the windows at a local church

where I donated some stars for

their Christmas display.

I also have made window stars, hand-embroidered ornaments, and other handmade items as “thank you” gifts for those who have made an impact on my life and who have indicated that they like the work that I do.  Sharing an item that I made by hand with someone who will appreciate it is something I enjoy doing.

What mistakes have you made or lessons you have learned?

I’ve made plenty of mistakes in trying to run a business. I do not have a business degree (my undergraduate degrees are in Psychology and in Communications, Telecommunications, and Theater; and I did some graduate work in Arts Administration), so I’m not as skilled as others who have a strong business background.  I’m learning as I go; and having Harvest Moon by Hand has taught me a lot about different aspects of operating a business from home.

Children learning taiko drumming from

a Theater Mu performer. 

This picture was taken during one of the

Create & Cultivate Art Camps

that I founded and directed right at the farm for many years.

One of the most important lessons, for me, is not to give up.  I’ve tried lots of different ways to be self-sufficient by running my own business or non-profit organization.  Some things were very successful (not neccessarily monetarily, but in terms of positive impact on others)…and others failed miserably on all levels. 

Campers petting one of the sheep at Harvest Moon.

The camp program drew children from a 50-mile radius;

and featured hands-on opportunities to learn

the connection between agriculture, the arts, and nature.

When faced with failure (or multiple, repeated failures as was the case many years ago when several things failed all within a few years of one another) life can get pretty discouraging.  I’ve had to step back at these times and objectively look at what was successful and what didn’t work, and come up with another idea, hoping that the new one would be the one that works well. 

What, to you is success? Have you achieved it yet, or are you on your way towards success?

To me, success isn’t related exclusively to money….it’s related to giving.  There are some core questions that are always in the back of my mind that guide how I view and work towards success:

– What are you doing to make a difference in the world? In your community? In your family?

– How are you making the lives of others who are having difficulty (or who have less than you do) easier?

– How are you enhancing the lives of the next generation? (These children are the ones who will be in charge when you are older…in business, government, and healthcare. Helping children now benefits everyone in the long-term.)

I know this is a very different view than some other people have regarding success.  Traditionally, success is equated with how much money you make and accumulate; how big a house you have; or how many “toys” you own.  Simply having lots of money and not using it to help others, to me, is not success.

My dream would be to have an even more profitable business – so that I could give more.  When I look at the opportunities to help…to make a difference…it would be nice to be able to have the financial resources to make gifts to others or travel to places to volunteer (beyond just donating items or time which my daughters and I do now on a weekly basis to various organizations). 

So what’s next?

I enjoy developing patterns, and would like to create more PDF patterns for natural, hand-embroidered children’s toys.

PDF pattern for a hand-embroidered zebra

available at Harvest Moon by Hand.

I also did a 52 Weeks of Baking challenge in which I tried new recipes each week for a year.  I modified the recipes so that they were dairy-free (so my oldest daughter could eat the food).  I typed each of the recipes along with modifications made, a photo of the recipe, and lessons learned during the week. 

My next step is to format the recipes into a book and print two copies – one for each of my daughters.  I’ve considered making some extra copies and trying to sell them since appetizing, dairy-free recipes for children aren’t always easy to find.

Sourdough cinnamon rolls that I made during

the 52 Weeks of Baking challenge.

They were incredibly good…and dairy-free!

Many years ago, I wrote a multi-disciplinary curriculum for families who homeschool that was based on creative reuse (it was called “Waste Not” and “Second Impressions”).  My daughters at the time were not old enough to do many of the activities over the ten-month period that I piloted the curriculum and activities to a local homeschool co-op. 

Handmade pillowcase made from

a used (and cleaned) bedsheet and extra fabric.

So, I would like to revisit the curriculum, do the activities with the girls, and re-format the curriculum with pictures of the activities that my daughters enjoyed the most.  The photos of the projects, tutorials, and information would be available in PDF format through my shop. 

Felted sweaters that were cut and

made into cat toys.

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UWIB Blog Hop – Wedding Bells

Each month the Unique Women in Business team does a blog hop.  This month the theme is “Wedding Bells.”   Harvest Moon by Hand is focusing on brides who want to incorporate something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in their weddings.

White window star from Harvest Moon by Hand

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62051454/white-5-pointed-waldorf-inspired-window

Many brides are unfamiliar with the origin and meaning behind the old-new-borrowed-blue custom though. This tradition stems from an old English rhyme “Something olde, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe.”

Family members and the bride’s attendants gave old, new, borrowed, and blue items and a sixpence to the bride as tokens of love on her wedding day for good luck just before her marriage.

What does each item represent?
Something old – Continuity
Something new – Optimism for the future
Something borrowed – Borrowed happiness
Something blue – Purity, love, and fidelity
Sixpence in your shoe – Wish for good fortune and prosperity (although this remains largely a British custom).  Sometimes this is adapted in the United States to be “a penny in your shoe.”

Today brides are working the old, new, borrowed, and blue objects into their weddings themselves. Here are some ideas for brides to personalize the old-new-borrowed-blue custom for their weddings.

Something Old

The old item can be an antique, an heirloom object, or a sentimental piece that represents the bride’s past.

– A locket containing a picture of the bride’s grandparents
– Antique combs, pins, or barrettes
– A baby bracelet from a family member used around the base of your bouquet
– Place an antique bookmark to mark ceremony readings
– Use a childhood pillow for the ring bearer’s pillow
– Display wedding photographs of parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents at the reception
– Have the bride carry a childhood treasure she has saved (like a ring, bracelet, locket, etc.)
– Bring out the heirloom jewelry to wear like an engagement ring or wedding band, a brooch, earrings, a bracelet, a necklace, or some sparkly hair pins
– Sew a button from one of the bride’s father’s old coats on the inside of the bride’s gown at the hem or place it in her purse
– Give the bride a vintage compact mirror for her purse
– Wear a headpiece, tiara, or veil that has been handed down
– Take some of mother’s or grandmother’s wedding gown fabric or lace and sew it inside the bride’s gown or to her petticoat
– Display a photograph of the bride as a little girl or carry it in the bride’s purse
– Carry a wedding photo of parents’ or grandparents’ in the bride’s purse (it can be copied to reduce the size if necessary)

My mom and dad when they were married in 1964.

Something New

– Find a lucky penny minted in the year of the wedding
– Buy a new lipstick in a pretty shade (the bride does not have to wear it on her big day)
– Have a custom perfume designed for the bride
– Purchase a new makeup bag or new purse to use on the day of the wedding
– Select a new jewelry item to wear on the day of the wedding like a bracelet, earrings, or a necklace
– Purchase a special guest book with extra room for guests to include a personal note at the wedding
– Pack some mints or a stick of gum

16 point window star from Harvest Moon by Hand

http://www.etsy.com/listing/18588904/white-16-point-window-star-sharp-pointed

Something Borrowed

Some brides use a borrowed item from a long-time happily married couple for this item, but it also can be something borrowed from a friend or other relative who is symbolic of happiness.

The borrowed item should be returned to the owner following the wedding day. It is helpful if one of the wedding attendants or mother-of-the-bride returns the borrowed item to the loaner to relieve the bride of this duty. A thank you note is always appreciated and appropriate when the borrowed item is returned.

A flower in the garden can be incorporated into a bridal bouquet.

This flower is one that I helped my dad plant this year.

(He has Alzheimer’s Disease and needed help planting flowers in containers.)

– Include flowers from the bride’s parents’ or grandparents’ garden in floral arrangements at the wedding or in the bride’s bouquet
– Let the groom borrow grandfather’s pocket watch or have the bride carry it in her purse

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– Borrow the song from the bride’s (or groom’s) parents’ wedding to dance to
– Use sister’s silver knife to cut the cake with at the reception
– Borrow a book from the library that has a poem or reading that will be used in the ceremony or borrow a reading that was used at your sister’s wedding.  (See the end of this post for a book that is available at the library that has a great selection of classic and contemporary readings.)
– Borrow a button-down shirt or robe for the bride to wear while getting her hair and makeup done

Something Blue

There are unlimited ways the color blue can be incorporated into the wedding day. Keep in mind there are many shades of blue and one may work better than another for the bride depending on how the blue item will be used.

Some brides will not want blue to be a dominant wedding color and so they will prefer to limit the blue color to less visible areas. The something blue item is also an opportunity for the bride who loves blue to embrace the color blue as one of her wedding colors.

– The sash on your dress
– A bouquet of blue blooms
– A blue garter
– Sapphire jewelry
– A blue pen, for signing the marriage certificate
– Use blue confetti
– Use blue ribbon or flowers in the bride’s bouquet or on the groom’s boutonniere
– Wear sapphire, tanzanite, opals, or aqua marine jewelry

Blue window star from Harvest Moon by Hand

http://www.etsy.com/listing/39213349/blue-mandala-window-star-intricately

A Sixpence in Your Shoe

The sixpence is traditionally placed in the bride’s left shoe, but it can also be carried in the bride’s purse or sewn into the hem or lining of her gown. Including the sixpence in your shoe is largely a British custom today.

Sixpence (front)

Silver sixpence coins can be purchased from various online stores that sell them specifically for weddings, but many brides have found other ways to interpret this wedding custom by using different items and carrying the item instead of placing it in their shoes.

Sixpence (back)

– Buy a silver sixpence (an English coin) to use for the wedding
– Use an old coin from the country of the bride or groom’s ancestry (this could also double as the something old item)
– Get a mint coin for the bride to carry (this could also double as the something new item)

By choosing items of significance to the bride for something old, new, borrowed, blue, and the sixpence; this English tradition of good luck will be a significant way for brides to have with them on their special days.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

To see what other members of the UWIB team created for the “Wedding Bells” theme, please take a look at the follow links:

Rita Wetzel http://ritascreativenest.com/
Judy Woodley http://wellspringcreations.blogspot.com/
Ann Rinkenberger http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com/ (you are here now)
Cory Trusty http://aquarianbath.blogspot.com/
Nancy Pace http://nancyswildwirejewelry.blogspot.com/
Trudy Miller http://mommagoddesstreasures.blogspot.com/
Linda Stranger http://capecoddreamer.blogspot.com/
Wendy Kelly http://blog.vintageday.com/
Miriam http://goldcrestbags.blogspot.com/

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I was at the library a few days ago and Bartlett’s Words for the Wedding was displayed.  Since the UWIB Blog Hop was coming up, I thought I’d check out the book.  There are some lovely poems and thoughts expressed in the book – classic and contemporary.  Here’s one that I liked:

Apache Wedding Prayer

~*~ Printed in Bartlett’s Words for the Wedding ~*~

Edited by Brett Fletcher Lauer and Aimee Kelley

Now you will feel no rain,

For each of you will be shelter to the other.

Now you will feel no cold,

For each of you will be warmth to the other.

Now there is no more loneliness,

For each of you will be companion to the other.

Now you are two bodies,

But there is only one life before you.

Go now to your dwelling place

To enter into the days of your togetherness.

And may your days be good

And long upon the earth.

Anonymous

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