The Apple Street Cottage

  Let's just say, Rosie is not happy.  She wanted no part in writing this post and has informed me that this is the 'stupidest' costume ever!  LOL Rosie was thinking 'Elvira, Mistress of the Dark' while I was inspired by the garden this year.  I had plenty of helpful bugs in my garden and when I saw the ladybug wings in the dollar store I was inspired.   After scooping up the wings and headband, I knew I had what I needed at home to turn this into her costume.  A black t-shirt from my closet and a red tablecloth were all that was needed.  Yes, a tablecloth, but don't tell Rosie!    If she knew, she'd have my head!   There was quite a lot of grumbling as I put together this costume.  As a peace offering, I  added the necklace since we all know Rosie LOVES jewelry.   I thought it added a little 'flair' to the look. Rosie was not convinced.... I thought the skirt needed some polka dots to carry the ladybug look...

Spring is here, or so they tell me, and I can't wait to get out in the garden.  As most gardeners do, I love seeing ladybugs and decided a sign was needed.    The first thing I did was find a piece of wood in my box of wood chunks - yes, I actually have a box of of wood - and give it a quick coat of stain. Then I went on Design Space and designed my lettering for a stencil.  Since stencil vinyl can be expensive, I use contact paper from the dollar store.  It's very 'budget friendly'.  When the stencil was in place, I used an old gift card to burnish the edges to prevent the paint from bleeding through.  Using black acrylic craft paint, I began stenciling with very little paint - actually, almost a dry brush.  This is another way I keep the paint from bleeding. This was the first coat. I continued stenciling with light coats of paint until everything was filled-in.  The stencil was removed, and I had the lettering done. With a...

In honor of the first day of Spring, here is a little ladybug to brighten your day!   I had some wood scraps left-over from last Fall and decided I better use them.  The first thing I did was draw a pattern and cut it out of an old cereal box. The pattern was traced on the wood and cut out with my trusty jig saw. After drilling a hole for the antennae and smoothing the edges with sandpaper, the ladybug was ready for paint.  The edges were distressed and a little antique-medium was rubbed on.  I curled two pieces of black wire and put them in the drilled hole with a little glue.  The ladybug was done! I think it's perfect for the kitchen window, don't you? Thanks for stopping by...I hope you'll share, pin, and comment...I loooove comments!  Have a great week and Happy First Day of Spring!