Halloween countdown calendar.

I have total respect for Angie for making this Halloween countdown calendar. I did one for my book Mod Podge Rocks, and it was quite the labor of love. Countdown calendars are totally worth it though, because they are SO fun to make! Add googly eyes and you've got the icing on the cake. I think Angie's is particularly fun because it incorporates Sparkle Mod Podge, which is a little known wonder of the world. Head over to Angie's to learn how it was made.

Halloween countdown calendar at Country Chic Cottage

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One dollar flip-flop coaster.

I have to admit that I love to wear flip flops year round. I've always lived in climates where you can pretty much do that - though it does get cold here in the south, I've never been afraid of cold feet. Since I love flip flops, naturally I love it when things around me wear flip flops as well - including glasses. Lindsay came up with this genius tutorial for turning flip flops into coasters, and I think they are so cute I can hardly stand it. You can draw any designs you like on them (skull for Halloween)? Visit her to learn how they were made.

One dollar flip flop coasters at Shrimp Salad Circus

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Sparkle-rific roller skates.

I have a vision in my mind of roller skating all over the city of Atlanta. I love roller skating, and nothing would be better than seeing the city on wheels while exercising at the same time. Unfortunately my hopes are quickly dashed when I remember how bad the drivers are here . . . but it's okay. I can stil appreciate a good pair of DIY roller skates. I bow down to Anjelica, who modified a plain pair of roller skates with glitter, rhinestones and a whole lot of Mod Podge and E-6000. Aren't they amazing? Learn more below.

How to add some sparkle to your skates at Juan of Words

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Five more blogs to love.

I feel like I've known Sara from Creative Jewish Mom forever! It's hard to pick my favorite projects, but I really, really love her recycled crafts. AND her party crafts. And her kids' crafts. Sara is amazing and can make something beautiful out of nothing. Pin Creative Jewish Mom here.

Jenny from Craft Test Dummies is a friend of mine, but that doesn't mean I'm biased. Her site is THE resource for craft product testing and reviews. That means if you want to know more about a craft product, how it works and what the results look like, you visit her. Pin Craft Test Dummies here.

I visited Sara from Mom Endeavors on my trip across the country, and she is truly the woman of many gifts just as she appears on her site. She has great crafts and recipes, but she also writes interesting stories about her family, which I have to read for hours (even though I'm not a mom). That is saying something! Pin Mom Endeavors here.

Homework is the title of Carolyn's blog, and I love that she says your assignment is to "be inspired." That is exactly what will happen when you visit her. She is a lovely Mod Podger - truthfully. I am always surprised at her projects, because you won't believe what amazing things she can create with glue (among other creations). I shouldn't be surprised, because Carolyn rocks. Pin Homework here.

I'm not quite sure how Johnnie from Saved By Love Creations does it, but each week she manages to post her own beautiful tutorials in addition to stunning roundups of carefully curated craft projects. It's hard to pick which of her projects I like best, but she's great at jewelry and I always gravitate toward her pieces. Pin Saved By Love Creations here.

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Mod Podge painted rocks.

I get tickled when someone unknowingly pays homage to this blog by Mod Podging rocks. Teresa did just that, after painting them in bright and beautiful colors with meaningful words and images. The result is a perfect gift for someone you love or want to bring joy, and be sure to tell them about my blog when you give them the rock (I'm totally kidding!). Find out more about the project at Teresa's blog.

Mod Podge painted rocks at Blooming on Bainbridge

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Painted Tardis keys.

My friend Haley loves Dr. Who crafts, and I love her because she loves Dr. Who crafts. She's made a themed phone charging station and stitched valentine. The painted Tardis key was simply a natural progression further into the world of geek crafting. I totally support this endeavor, being a huge Star Wars fan. Anyhoo, visit Haley to learn how she decorated her key (excited - I always try every key before I hit the right one last. Is it just me?).

Painted Tardis keys at The Zen of Making

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Five great blogs to visit - now.

With the birth of my new blog Refashion Files comes a foray into the world of . . . DIY fashion! Carly from Chic Steals is a master, and she has a fun and funky sense of style that I know you'll appreciate. Pin Chic Steals here.

One thing I love about Haley from The Zen of Making is that she's such a precise crafter - she makes amazing stuff look really easy. Then you try it, and sure enough, she's figure out a great method. You'll love her geek crafts, too. Pin The Zen of Making here.

When I first saw the blog name Shrimp Salad Circus, I wasn't quite sure what to expect - but I knew it was going to be interesting. That definitely describes Lindsay's blog, and I mean that in the good way. She's unique and fun, and I like that in my crafts. Pin Shrimp Salad Circus here.

Kim from Sand and Sisal has a pretty and classic style that all of us could use a little more of. She manages to make Mod Podge look upscale, and her fancy home decor projects aren't too complicated (and they look awesome). Pin Sand and Sisal here.

You know that Mark Montano had several books - but did you know he has a blog? I love it because he's always sharing fun DIYs and every now and again, a full tutorial from his books. This guy makes the best stuff out of common materials. Pin Mark Montano's Big-Ass Blog here.

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Baker's twine tea cakes.

I thought it was so funny when i saw this project by Courtney because I too recently did a Mod Podge project with baker's twine - though mine is not small cakes. You'll see eventually what I've come up with. But I love Courtney's tea cakes too! They are so pretty and fun and make great decor - or you can even give them to your little ones for teatime play.

Baker's twine tea cakes at Sweet C's Designs

PS - For more features of Courtney on this site, visit her fabric nursery wall art, no sew totes, no sew fabric bins . . . or the time she guest posted with revamped baby onesies. She is awesome.

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Watch Craft Wars tonight on TLC!

I'm so excited about tonight. There's a new show on television called Craft Wars debuting on TLC. Have you heard of it? If not, prepare to get the crafty tingles of excitement!

This new show is by the producers of Cupcake Wars and is a crafty competition show (what else?). In each episode, three crafters compete their way to a $10,000 prize by making things out of the most interesting materials. I'm thrilled because there is a total lack of crafty shows on air - I'm so appreciative to TLC for finally giving us a show to watch!

It's on every Tuesday at 10pm EST/9pm CST. Join me in watching the premiere tonight. I'm also hoping to get some interviews with the fantastic contestants and/or judges. For more info about the show, click here.

I'm also excited to share this exclusive preview with you. I really can't wait!

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Patchwork skateboard.

I don't know how to ride a skateboard, but if I did, I would want to ride this one. What crafter wouldn't want to hit the half pipe with a patchwork skateboard? I'd even wear my Hello Kitty vans, and everyone at the playground would bow down to my awesomeness. Okay, probably not, but it sounds good. Either way, I love it. Learn how to make one yourself at the link below.

Patchwork skateboard at make something

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Mod Podge Day! Celebrating the 45th anniversary.

Did you know that this year is the 45th anniversary of Mod Podge? Cool, huh? A lot of people have no idea that the product is that old. Though I prefer to say "45 years young," as Mod Podge is just as amazing as when it first came out. In my humble opinion.

To celebrate Mod Podge's anniversary, I was recently invited to attend an event at Plaid's headquarters here in the Atlanta area. In addition to craft-lebrities and Plaid staff, 50 Michaels Gold Members got to attend and do some crafting. I wanted to share some cool pictures and the excitement of the day. It was especially timely given my new book and the new product. Here's more.

Behold - a large Mod Podge cake with a spin-y at the top. I imagine several of you would like to back your trucks up and haul this away . . .

Cathie and Steve flew in - to do demos and to talk about "the new stuff" that they helped design. So what is this new stuff?

Well, it's design elements! This includes papers, acrylic shapes and templates that are PERFECT for Podging. These products are at your local Michaels and you need to check them out. You can do so many fun things with them (projects to come here on MPR!).

In addition, there are new formulas, glues, sprays and other mediums. Try these on for size:

• Mod Podge Antique Matte
• Mod Podge Kids' Wash Out
• Mod Podge Super Gloss (finish only)
• Mod Podge 6 Pot Sampler Set
• Mod Podge Dimensional Magic Glitter Gold
• Mod Podge Dimensional Magic Glitter Silver
• Mod Podge Crackle
• Mod Podge Photo Transfer Medium
• Mod Podge Craft Glue
• Mod Podge Jewelry Glue
• Mod Podge Repositionable Glue
• Mod Podge Pearlized Sealer
• Mod Podge Sealer Super Gloss

I know - SO much new stuff. I got one of everything to try, so I'll be showing you in the coming months what I do with it. How am I ever going to use it all?!?

Speaking of formulas, the container on the left is the very first container that Mod Podge ever came in. The container on the right is the second. I LOVE.

More oldies but goodies from the archives - a Mod Podge puzzle for the 25th anniversary, a demonstration poster featuring Jan Wetstone, creator of Mod Podge, and an old Mod Podge book "Fabrications with Fabric."

I mentioned Jan Wetstone, creator of Mod Podge. Guess what? She got to come!! This lovely woman is the whole reason this blog exists, and I was so thrilled to meet her. She is truly amazing. The highlight of the day? She asked ME to sign my book for her!! What? I love her!!

For those who have never seen it, Jan Mod Podged a car with sheets back in the day. I wish I had this car now.

Remember how I mentioned the 50 Michaels Gold Members? They got to Mod Podge their hearts out at various make and take it stations during the day.

We also ate cupcakes and wore rings.

And most of all, I wish all of you could have been there with me! Thanks for reading. When I first started this blog, I didn't know if I could make it last longer than a month. Four years later, we are still celebrating together. Here's to Mod Podge and many more years to come.

Cheers!

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Refashion Files challenges.

Have you been to my new blog Refashion Files? Jen from Tatertots and Jello and I started it together, and have been posting refashion inspiration like fools!

The great news is that we are doing challenges on a monthly basis - with prizes - and our first challenge is rainbow. Do you want to participate? Learn more here!

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Five more blogs to visit.

Are you into being a crafty mom? And better yet, a crafty mom on a budget? Heather from Dollar Store Crafts launched the brilliant Dollar Store Mom and the amazingly talented Breanna runs it. Pin Dollar Store Mom here.

Have you seen Sew Doggy Style? This is the blog for people who love to craft for their pets (raising hand). Plus who doesn't like cute pictures of an extremely cute blog? Pin Sew Doggy Style here.

Since I was little I have loved crafts with the letter "A." I don't think I'm unusual in that regard - and I believe we all need a little more typography in our lives! Swell Designer Alexa pulled together a new site called Font Crafts that celebrates typography crafts, and it's my fave. Pin Font Crafts here.

A lot of people know that Cathy of California is one of my heroes. She has been doing vintage crafts since the 70s, so I give her all sorts of credit for using Mod Podge way before I did. I love the cheerfulness and smartness of her crafts. And just her in general. Pin Cathy of California here.

With the recent release of my new blog Refashion Files, I have been paying more attention to clothing DIYs in general. My Life on the Divide focuses on refashioning, and Kasey is a master. Pin My Life on the Divide here.

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DIY masquerade masks.

This is one of those projects that you should think about for wedding season. You know, for those fun wedding photo booths that everyone loves! These are easy to make with simple supplies, and Kendra has a great tutorial. Of course, weddings aren't the only reason to make these. You might just want to have them around for family fun. Just because. Visit Kendra to learn how to make them.

Masquerade masks at My Insanity

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Art spheres.

I'm excited to share this project with you because it's so unique. What are these, you ask? Art spheres! They are unique balls of wonder (bet you haven't heard that term before) - balls covered with different materials and textures to create a interesting home decor display. What I love about this project is that it got my creative juices turning. What else can I cover balls with? 

If you are done laughing, visit Taylor to get the tutorial. I'm now inspired thanks to her.

Art spheres at Taylor Made

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Five craft blogs to visit.

I'm having a blast sharing some of my favorite blogs with you. There are so many great ones out there that I could write about 20 of these posts. OR MORE.

All kinds of fun posts at See Vanessa Craft! From recipes to simple tutorials to budget crafting. She's got it all. Plus a very pretty blog design. Pin See Vanessa Craft here.

Vivienne from The V Spot isn't just a good DIY'er - she's a hilarious storyteller! Seriously. I also got to meet her at SNAP, and she is just as funny in real life as on her blog. Pin The V Spot here.

Okay, admit it - Erika has the best blog name ever! Oops! I Craft My Pants has a wide range of tutorials and a very cute baby as a model. Pin Oops! I Craft My Pants here.

Nat and Holly from My Sister's Suitcase are very good at making simple projects that are also very beautiful. They have really great photos as well. Pin My Sister's Suitcase here.

You can't lose with Make Something! Cathie posts fun DIY projects, recipes, tutorials and inspiration (her projects as well as those she does with Steve). Pin Make Something here.

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Yay for Mod Podging a bicycle.

I get this question more than you would think, actually. And the answer is yes - you can Mod Podge a bicycle! Next time you are at the thrift store and see a bike that needs a overhaul, don't pass over it. All you need is fabric and Mod Podge . . . scissors . . . and patience. But anyone can do it, I promise!

Mod Podge bike at Squidoo

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Five blogs you need to visit.

Stacie from Stars for Streetlights does some of my favorite fashion DIYs, but she's multi-talented. She uses Mod Podge all the time in ways I would have never thought of. And she's just cool. Pin Stars for Streelights here.

Sweet Rose Studio is written by Katie, a very lovely person with a variety of interests. And somehow, she's good at everything she does! I especially love her home decor projects.  Pin Sweet Rose Studio here.

I have met Cliff and Andrea from Hand Make My Day in real life, and they are just as entertaining and nice as they are on their blog. After the paint chip, I will read their blog FOREVER. Pin Hand Make My Day here.

Who doesn't love to do projects in 30 minutes (or less)? Join Carolina at Moore Craft Time. For those of you with young children and limited time, there are a lot of good ideas. Pin Moore Craft Time here.

Good photos, good projects . . . actually, make that GREAT photos and projects. Mollie from Wild Olive is a genius at putting together simple ideas that blow me away. Pin Wild Olive here.

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