Monogram in the Round

Just another project to share with you...

 

It measures 28" in diameter and was made using 1/4 mdf board and pine laminate board which was cut into different widths on the table saw.  Then I stained all the boards and painted a few to give it an aged look, using a heat gun to remove some of the paint.

 

The "M" and the 28" circle was cut using my new Dewalt (cordless) jigsaw which made the job very easy!  I've always used a scroll saw for detail work but my new jigsaw is wonderful.  

 

 

I've had a few requests to make these in different sizes and although I'm not in the business of selling items anymore, I figure it's a fun project to create so why not?!  

Thank you for stopping by!

Lesa

"Gather"

Signs seem to be very popular right now and I have diy'ed a few for my home but needed something on a smaller scale for a corner in my dining area.  "Gather" seemed appropriate so here is what I created...

 

It measures 13 3/4" wide x 13" tall which includes the frame.  

 

I used a piece of 1/4" mdf board for the sign and cut a piece of 1" pine into a 3/4" wide strip for the frame.  The background of the sign was painted with Charcoal Grey by DecoArt and the lettering and leafy wreath was painted with my favourite cream coloured paint "Sandbar".  DecoArt's "Buttermilk" is a similar colour.  

 

Once the paint was completely dry I sanded it with 220 grit sandpaper to remove some of the paint and give it more of an aged look.  This also helps to remove any dried paint ridges and gives your hand painted lettering a smoother appearance.

The frame was stained with a weathered grey stain and then I blended a dark walnut stain on top.  The frame was attached with wood glue and an air nailer.  I attached a small self-levelling hanger on the back for hanging.  

I've attached below a closeup of the lettering and if you decide you want to try making one for yourself, I'm hoping you can print the image to the size you desire and use it to trace the pattern onto your wood or use it to cut your own stencil.  

 

 

Thanks for stopping by.

Lesa

Simple Afghan

Here is a crocheted blanket I'd like to share with you...

 

It was very simple to do.  This is my second crocheted project so it was very easy.  

  

I didn't follow a pattern, but if you can chain and single crochet then you can make this blanket in just a few nights in front of the tv.  

 

If you'd like to give it a try here are my "how to" instructions:

You will need:

18 balls of Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick yarn (I used "Oatmeal")

Q crochet hook

My finished blanket (not including the fringe) measures 53" x 57"

Using two strands together, chain 65 plus 1 and turn.  Single crochet into each chain until you reach the end of the row (65) then chain 1 and turn.  Keep going in this manner until desired width.  I didn't count the number of rows I crocheted...I just kept going until I was almost out of yarn, but still had enough yarn left to add a fringe to the ends.  The blanket looks good with or without the fringe.  

 

 

It is a very quick blanket to "whip up"  and by using two strands of yarn it makes this blanket very heavy and very warm! 

 

If you are a beginner crocheter like me then give it a try.  It's quick and easy and a lot of fun to do!  

 

Thanks for stopping by!

Lesa