How To: XO Earrings

I've had my eye out for a pair of  "XO" earrings for Valentine's day, but haven't seen any, so I decided to make some. :) 

You will need:

Gold Spray Paint

Glossy Sealant

1 package 1" wooden X's

1 package 1" wooden O's

1 package earring backings

Hot Glue Gun

1. For a pair of earrings, you will need  1 X and 1 O. I found packs of 4 in the wood section of Joann Fabrics. Spray paint both sides of your letters with at least 2 coats on each side. Let dry in between coats. 

After the spray paint dries, add a coat of glossy sealer to add some shine!

2. Once your letters dry, its time to glue your backings on. Choose which side you'd like to be the front, and turn the letters over. Use a dot of hot glue to secure one backing to each. Add your backing to the top of the letters in a spot that will not show through to the other side. Be sure your glue is very hot, or the backing will peel off easily. After your glue dries, you are done! 

These also make a great little gift for your girlfriends!

I am excited to dress up for a lunch date on Saturday! We are going to try and avoid the dinner rush ;) Do you have big plans??

How To: Valentine Envelope Garland

I just can't get enough of sweet valentine decorations and details! No wonder, since my favorite colors are pink and red. :)

This envelope garland was so simple to whip up on a crafty afternoon with friends! I am loving it on our brick wall in the living room. 

You will need:

8 Sheets of scrapbook paper

paper cutter or scissors

glue dots, photo squares, or double sided tape

16 buttons

hot glue gun

twine

1. Cut your scrapbook papers into 4.25x4.25 inch squares. I used 2 squares of each colors for a total of 16 squares. 

2. Lay your first square down diagonally with the colored side facing down. Fold the 2 side points in equal amounts to create straight edges on either side. My straight edges measure approximately 2.5" each. 

3. Fold the bottom point up lining the fold with the bottom of the side folds. 

4. To secure your folds, add a few glue dots, photo squares, or double sided tape under the flaps. Note: This will cause the flaps to adhere to the back of the envelope making it unusable and decorative only. If you hope slide a note in your envelopes, only secure the very edges of the flaps to each other, not to the back. 

5. Fold the top point down.

6. Use hot glue and a button to seal your envelope shut. 

6. Once all your envelopes are dry, thread them in a desired pattern through your twine. Leave plenty of excess twine on either side to tie your garland up. I created 2 garlands each with 8 envelopes. My bottom garland was slightly longer than the top. 

That's all there is to it! A festive little love note garland in minutes. How do you decorate for Valentine's day?

Raindrops on Roses Anniversary and Looking Ahead

This past month marks the anniversary of this little space on the internet. I started Raindrops on Roses as a way to share my artwork and creative ideas. It has been a challenge to keep up with the

 blog over the past several years between college, wedding planning, etc. But, this past year has been the biggest year yet! 

It has been so fun to see growth and success this year! I am excited for the next year of my little creative business and am anticipating some great things!

In looking at the next year, I wanted to establish a goal and purpose for Raindrops on Roses. 

THE MISSION

To inspire others to use their creativity and means within their grasp to add beauty to their own lives and the lives of those around them...

I so often find myself looking at others through social media who seem to live beautiful lives complete with gorgeous elaborate parties, perfectly decorated homes, and expensive stylish wardrobes. These are all fun and inspiring to look at, but I found that I begin comparing myself to these women, discontent, and ultimately trying to become more like them. 

I realized that I can still have creativity and beauty in my life without spending a fortune or losing my own style. I decided instead of trying to achieve what others have, a better way is to take inspiration I find and do it my own way with what resources I have. 

I would like to make this a place to share creative ideas that utilize resources that are inexpensive and accessible. To add beauty to our lives, homes, and wardrobes in attainable ways even if it means thinking outside the box! 

I know you may say "time is money", or "DIY is not my thing". Then, let me do that part for you! I've had friends ask me to address their envelopes, design invitations, and even purchase the finished product of a DIY project I've shared. If you see a project you like, email me for details for a custom piece! Be sure to visit the shop as well!

I have many new things in the works for 2015 including a Thank You Card package and Calligraphy Services. I would love your feedback on what you'd like to see whether it be types of blog posts or items in the Etsy shop. Thank you, my friends for following along and supporting me along the way!