monday's buttons: week . . . oh I don't know

I've been fielding quite a few e-mail questions about blog buttons lately.  There are a number of you out there who don't have a blog button, but are looking for tips on how to make your own.  I love how you think that just because I'm obsessed with something and write about it, that I actually know what I'm doing.  Even though I really don't have a clue, I thought I would play along and share the advice I've been passing out by e-mail to the rest of you. 

My first piece of advice is always to do a quick google search for a variety of great tutorials out there.  That's how my obsession with blog buttons began.   I know some of you have requested that I do a post about button making, but to be honest, there are so many other great tutorials out there, my mediocre explanation doesn't need to be added to the mix.  ;)

My second piece of advice is to start simple.  You can always learn and tweak and start over as much as you want.  But sometimes when you are first starting out, it's best just to keep it simple, clean and fresh.  That's why I'm showing off these three buttons and blogs today. 

(My third piece of advice would be to pay someone to do it for you . . . however, I didn't even do that so I can't really authentically advise you to do that.  Plus, if you are like me, you get a little thrill figuring this stuff out on your own . . . even if you don't do it very well.)

Pickup Some Creativity  This summer we spent some time with my grandparents who don't have digital camera.  They have the "old" style camera that still uses film.  My oldest daughter went over to great grandpa and wanted to see the picture that he took on the back of the camera.  Imagine her confusion when I tried to explain that grandpa's camera didn't work like all the other camera's she has seen in her short life.  Then I tried to explain the concept of a Polaroid camera to her.  She was baffled.  But it brought back good memories of all the Polaroid pics I took as a kid.  I love Polaroids.  And that's one of the reasons I love this little button that Chris over at Pickup Some Creativity came up with.  Chris has a wonderfully creative blog that I have come to LOVE . . . not to mention that she is super sweet as well . . . creative and kind . . . a great combo.  Here's what she has to say about her blog button: 

1) How would you describe your blog in five words?

I share so you'll shine.

2) Did you craft your button or did you inspire someone to craft/create it for you?

I made my button myself (digitally of course!). Early on, I decided to use Polaroid type photos as a style for my blog. I've moved things around quite a bit, but that has been a unifying theme. There is a little free program called poladroid that will convert .jpgs to a Polaroid style photo. I love it!

3) How does your button reflect your blog? What are you hoping it says about your blog?
I wanted something straight-forward and easily recognizable. I hope it says "she's a child of the 80s...I bet she has some fun ideas!"

4) What are two of your favorite posts?
Oooh, that's hard to choose. I would have to say my Little Mama Series.  I made new bedding for my daughters' dolly crib, which turned into a four-part essay for my girls about being a mother.

The second, I made a 3D diorama in paper of the house my husband and I built together. We're now selling that house, and I am so glad to have a unique memory to keep.

 

House of Grace  Simple, clean and bold . . . that's how I would describe Bonnie's buttons at House of Grace.  She has a series of buttons on her blog and they all share these same three traits.  Bonne's buttons show that you don't have to have a fancy, busy button to stand out in a crowd.  Simple makes its own statement!  Perhaps you've been waffling on the idea of making your own button.  Take a lesson from Bonnie - keep it simple!

1) How would you describe your blog in five words?

new, clean, fresh, simple, fun

2) Did you craft your buttons or did you inspire someone to craft/create them for you?

I made them all myself.

3) How do your buttons reflect your blog? What are you hoping they say about your blog?
I am not sure how they reflect it but I was hoping for a new, simple and fresh look.

4) What kids of blog buttons stick out to you in a crowded sea of blog buttons?
Ones that are easy to read and are not too busy.

Vibrant Designs  And last but certainly not least, I'm loving this last simple and fresh button from Julianne over at Vibrant Designs.  Another homemade button that caught my eye right away because of the background picture.  This button is a good example that a simple photo can go a long way in a button.  Plus, Julianne has some amazing sewing skills (check out her blog), so this button is a perfect representation of who she is and what her blog is about.  A good lesson on making sure your button represents who you are as a blogger.     

1) How would you describe your blog in five words?
vintage, genuine, creative, progressing, clean

2) Did you craft your button or did you inspire someone to craft/create it for you?
I'd been wanting a button for a long time but I had no idea how to go about it. One night, I was "blogging" late and something my husband said came to mind while I was contemplating blog buttons. "Google it." I did, and found a great little tutorial for creating your own blog buttons. I crafted my own button. The picture is mine from my blog banner.

3) How do your buttons reflect your blog? What are you hoping it says about your blog?
I think it's best for a blog button to reflect the blog it represents. My banner photo is the same on my website, my fb page, and my blog. In addition, I love to reuse interesting/vintage items, hence the antique sewing machine. I am hoping it reflects my love of all things vintage, fabric, and sewing.

4) What kinds of blog buttons stick out to you in a crowded sea of blog buttons? ;)
Colorful and unique...and words that don't quite make sense. I'll go check them out just to figure out what they're talking about. For instance, Flamingo Toes...what does flamingo toes have to do with crafting?

Go check out the blogs behind the buttons and . . .

craft on!

monday's buttons - week 13

Two different blogs!

Plus two fabulous gals!

Equals four amazingly creative buttons!

Sugar Bee: Craft Edition  Mandy, the creative brains behind Sugar Bee, has an infectious creative spirit . . . not the kind of infection that you go to the doctor to get a cure for, but the kind of infection you want to catch!  Okay . . . that was kind of an odd and maybe slightly disgusting way to say that I love her blog and her creative genius and, of course, her buttons, but I've been sick lately so I've got infections on the brain!  You just have to take a little looksie around the playroom she designed, you'll see exactly what I mean.  And just like the playroom, her buttons pop.  They are bright and cheery, and that signature bee is a key element of her design that I think is brilliant. 

1) How would you describe your blog in five words?
Fabulous crafts anyone can do!

2) Did you craft your buttons or did you inspire someone to craft/create them for you?
My sister-in-law, with a degree in graphic design, put them together for me. I think she did a great job!! I tried to make some myself but they always had a "homemade" look, and think her turned out real polished and professional. I thought I wanted a round button, but she gave me about 4-5 choices and the round one didn't make the cut. I narrowed the choices down to my 2 favorite but I couldn't decide between 2 of them, so I list them both on my blog so the grabber can decide which they prefer.

3) How do your buttons reflect your blog? What are you hoping they say about your blog?
I wanted them to match my blog, so if you see my button you think, "oh, I know that blog". I had a couple designs to choose from that my sis-in-law had done in brown and yellow (to mimic a bee) which I LOVED, but I really wanted the colors of the button to remind people of my blog, so I used the turquoise dots like my background. My blog background is bright and crisp, and so is the button. I think it reflects a fun spirit. I hope it draws people in!

4) What kinds of blog buttons stick out to you in a crowded sea of blog buttons?
I think the more simple buttons stand out. If there are too many words or images it gets lost in a crowd. I think bright colors help too. Something with punch! But it is sure hard to know what "punch" is - I tried it on my own and couldn't get the "punch" I wanted - I think if you're going to commission anything for blog design, a button is well worth it. You can figure out column headers and backgrounds, but for me, I needed button help.

A-Tisket A-Tasket  Before I became a mom who loves to read books to my kids, I was a kid whose mom loved to read to me.  I spent countless hours listening to my mom read beloved books like The Carrot Seed, Each Peach Pear Plum, A Button for Corduroy, Make Way for Ducklings . . . all classics!  I was drawn to Michelle's blog because of her buttons, but I love to read it now because she shares my love of children's books.  Check out her cute buttons - I can almost feel the breeze in my hair and the sun kissing my cheeks as I look at them.

1) How would you describe your blog in five words?

Collection of my favorite books

2) Did you craft your buttons or did you inspire someone to craft/create them for you?

I created them myself using a combination of hand drawn elements and Photoshop. I started with a photograph of my kids who were the models for two of the buttons. (Michelle has a third button . . . yes, that's right A THIRD BUTTON of a little boy reading . . . over at her blog.  Go check it out!)

3) How do your buttons reflect your blog? What are you hoping they say about your blog?

The best thing about a good book is that it takes you to some place new, it's a journey that you escape on. I loved the shabby blog background I found and thought that it captured the sense of walking along a path to this someplace else; starting the journey into a book. I used it as a starting point for my buttons. I have two preschoolers at home so a lot of what we read are children's book these days and I am very passionate about the need for reading to kids so I wanted the buttons to also be sweet and childlike.

4) What kinds of blog buttons stick out to you in a crowded sea of blog buttons?
I love colorful buttons with hand drawn or graphic drawn elements.

Take a moment to check out the blogs behind the buttons.

Craft on!

monday's buttons

one blog
two buttons

loads of inspiration

seven thirty three: a creative blog

Chances are you've been to see Kim at seven thirty three: a creative blog.  But did you know that she has a second blog for her custom blog design business?  She answered the questions below in response to her creative blog, but go check out her blog design work as well.  Perhaps you will be inspired to have a little blog makeover!  As you can tell from her whimsical creative buttons, she's one talented gal!

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who has never been by for a visit?

A creative paradise for crafters and non-crafters alike! I like to post tutorials and ideas that float around in my head. I also feature lots of great projects from others around the blogosphere. Anything that catches my eye and makes me think, I want to try that, I will feature. I also offer freebies, link parties and blog design.

2) When did you start blogging? What got you interested in blogging?
I started blogging just over a year ago. I had so many ideas bouncing around in my head all the time... whether they be original or something I saw. I figured someone could benefit from having them on "paper". After checking out all the other amazing craft bloggers I thought I would throw my hand in the mix and have had a blast doing so.

3) How does your blog button reflect your blog or your personality?
As a graphic designer I spend lots of time on other peoples designs and when it comes time to design for myself I usually go blank! I have had several buttons in the last year and finally decided to sit down and really come up with a blog design that fit my personality. I am really happy with this button. I think the font is fun, and the design is simple, yet eye catching. Simple and modern is right up my alley!

4) Did you craft your button or did you inspire someone else to craft it for you?
As I mentioned above I designed it myself. I have actually seen a one or two similar to mine pop up since I posted mine, so I guess I need to keep in mind that imitation is the best form of flattery, right?

5) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are looking around in blogland?
Anything with a pop of color, that is out of the ordinary. I like unique buttons, that you look at and say, "Wow! That is eye catching, so cool!" and if it makes me say "I wish I thought of that!", all the better.

Thanks Kim!

Blog on!

monday's buttons - week 11

Mondays.

Buttons.

Blogs.

A Little Bit of Kooky  Rachel, the self-described Kooky Queen, has a fun . . . bright . . . and kooky button.  Check out what she has to say about her kooky button:

1) What five words would you use to describe your blog?

Laughable, Entertaining, Absurd (at times, haha), Lighthearted, and KOOKY!

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?
I did it myself. I bought Microsoft Digital Image Suite a few years ago on sale for $30. It's like a Photoshop knock off but I love it!

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
Most of my blog is rarely serious and very colorful so my blog and its button needed to be so. I am a lively, friendly person so I want my blog button to be inviting and happy!

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
Creatively catchy phrases, colorful pictures or artsy and inspiring! I loooooooove blog buttons!

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
Blogging to me isn't about how many followers I get or the number of comments (though I *LOVE* them), it's totally stress relief and it makes my day to hear that I made someone laugh! Truly and honestly, I just love to show the funny side of "mommying" and of life.

Dolls And Daydreams  Sarah is one busy artist and blogger.  You may remember Sarah from the numerous times I've raved about her other blog and charity called Dolly Donations.  This button for Sarah's other blog jumps off the screen with that cute little doll face front and center.

1) In one sentence, how would you sum up your blog?

Dolls And Daydreams is a place where I share all my crafty delights, daydream giveaways, tips and tutorials!

2) What was the inspiration behind your button? How does it reflect your blog?

It’s one of my daughter’s favorite dolls I’ve made her so far ;)

3) Did you craft it or inspire/commission someone else to craft it for you?

I made it myself with Photoshop.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are hopping around in blogland?
Simple and cute ones.

5) Why did you start this blog?
To share my work with other Mothers who love crafts, art, sewing, recycling and inspiring their children’s imaginations!

Current Giveaway is my Eco Friendly Doll House!

The Creative Maven  Molly, the creator of the Creative Maven, has a button I was born to love because it's minimal.  I like to think I'm a minimalist, but I'm probably not; however, I'm drawn to things that fit into the minimalist world in color, design and simplicity, so naturally I'm drawn to Molly's button.  And it doesn't hurt that she does have crazy creative skills too!  Here's what Molly shared about her button and blog:

1) In one sentence, how would you sum up your blog?
A place for me to share all my creative passions, whether it's sewing, cooking, paper crafting, home decorating, holidays, entertaining - you name it!

2) What was the inspiration behind your button? How does it reflect your blog?
I am drawn to so many different design styles, it was really tough. I guess I just really wanted to stick out in people's minds and be unique among the many craft blogs out there. It has a very clean, modern and preppy look that I haven't seen a lot of. While the colors and "preppy" design are unique, I like to keep things sort of general too. I have so many creative passions, I didn't want to be tied down to one type of crafting. I'm on a huge sewing kick right now, but when I started my blog, I actually thought it was going to focus more on home decor and food!

3) Did you craft it or inspire/commission someone else to craft it for you?
I had Shay at Dumplin Design Studio do my entire blog design, including the button. I like to joke that I can do just about anything with fabric, paper or glue, but I am NOT a graphic designer.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are hopping around in blogland?
I like buttons with a few bold colors, or a unique logo. I think it's really important for a blog to have a recognizable logo.

5) Why do you blog?
I blog to keep myself accountable. Before I started blogging I had a project list that kept growing, but nothing ever got done because other things always were a higher priority... but with my blog, it keeps me motivated to keep crafting. My blog is also the first thing, in a VERY long time, that I've done just for the fun of it. No goals, no monetary motive... just sharing what makes me happy - making things!

Take a few minutes and visit the blogs behind the buttons.  Don't forget to say "Hi!" and give these bloggers a little comment love while you are there.

Craft on!

monday's buttons - week 10

It's another manic Monday (thanks Cyndi Lauper),

and that means I have three fav buttons

from my travels around blogland.

Living My Sweet Life  I love simple clean buttons, and I think Liz hits the nail on the head with the button for her blog, Living My Sweet Life.  Here's what she has to say about her button and her blog:

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who hasn't visited your space in blogland?

My blog is a crafty blog that pretty much focuses on my sewing. I got a sewing machine last Christmas and I fell in love. I love trying new tutorials and most of my posts are projects I completed from other bloggers amazing tutorials. I am just starting to make my own patterns... so hopefully one day I can share a few tutorials of my own!

2) In what way does your button reflect your blog?

I love the whimsical colors and the fact that it looks handmade, I can see my self using those little trees as an applique pattern.

3) Did you craft your own button? If so, what program did you use? If someone else crafted it, who?

Yes, I made my own using Picnik. Homemade by Jill featured a wonderful tutorial on using Picnik and now I am HOOKED!

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you?
I am always drawn to the bright colorful buttons. I also enjoy the ones that are funny. (Have you ever looked at Crap I've Made's button? It's hysterical!)

5) What's one blog you turn to for inspiration when you are in a creative funk?
Wow... there are so many... I will have to go with Homemade by Jill. I love her style.

So Very Creative  Heather is a busy woman managing two super creative blogs.  Her newest blog, So Very Creative, is a place she organizes and lists some of her favorite projects around blogland.  Here's the lowdown on her blog button:

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who has never visited?
A blog that features all kinds of crafts from other blogs.

2) How does your button reflect this blog?

It is So Very Creative

3) Did you make your own button or did you inspire/commission someone to make it for you?

I did make my own button that is what makes it So Very Creative, I'm not much of a computer techy so I had to be very creative to make it. I used Picnik to make it.

4) What inspires you to keep blogging?
Other bloggers and their creativity! I love finding fun unIque projects, and I love being able to feature them and make someones day!

5) If you could only read one blog today, which one would it be?
Um wow this is a trick question right? Well if I could only read one today it would probably be Someday Crafts. It is the first blog I stumbled upon in the crafty blog world and was the first blog that featured my project from my other blog memakingdo.blogspot.com and made my day and inspired me to start So Very Creative!

Stepping thru cRazY  I was drawn to Sarah's blog because of the clever title and button that reminded me a bit of the Wizard of Oz - sans the ruby red shoes.  Here's what Sarah had to say about her button and blog:

1) What five words would you use to describe your blog?

Creative, varied, helpful?(I'm hoping, anyway!), colorful, and crazy.

 

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?

I created it myself :) First I took a picture of my feet, edited it and added text with picnik.com, then turned it into a button with a tutorial from A Heart For Home. It was surprisingly easier than I expected!

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
I wanted to be somewhat literal with the whole 'stepping' thing, so I wanted it to incorporate my feet. I suppose I should have been stepping, but I didn't like the way those shots came out. Anyway, I tangled my feet up in a measuring tape because it was fun. That's what I really want my button to say, that my blog is fun. And I do sew, so the measuring tape does come into play.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
I love buttons that are funky, colorful, fun... things that really grab my attention, and make me say 'Whoa, what blog is that?'

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
The power of craft. Hahaha, that sounds super dorky! No, I just love to craft and create things, and so many other people do, too, and if I can come up with an idea that someone else likes and wants to give a try, that's just so cool! My blog is my creative release, and my 'me' time. My kids love to watch me making something, I think it gets the wheels turning in their little heads, too! It's really a blast. :)

Go check out the blogs behind the buttons.  While you are visiting, make sure you say "HI!" to Sarah, Heather and Liz.

Craft on!

monday's buttons - week 9

For the last few weeks, I've been showing you groupings of buttons that are similar, but this week I have three COMPLETELY different buttons to show off.  I am lovin' each one of them for very different reasons. 

You'll see why . . .

Life in the Pitts  Helena is hilarious!  And the button for her hilarious blog, Life in the Pitts, is a great clue that you are in for a wild ride.  I saw this button and new that I had to hop on over and check out the blog, and I wasn't disappointed.  I laughed and laughed and laughed some more, and she even answers my pretty mundane and boring questions in a way that makes them seem way more fun than they are.  Get ready to laugh:

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who has never visited?

I blog about my life. And my life includes crafts. But it mostly includes friends and family and my super frustrating (but adorable) new husband.

You will like my blog if: you are into laughing.

You will hate my blog if: you are my mother in law.

2) What do you think your button says about your blog? What do you like best about your button?
Huh. I've never thought about this before. Something about the fonts and the spacing just feels right to me. I look at that button and I see myself. And not just because it features an actual photograph of me dancing (true story). In this button every thing's a little crazy, but I'm loving every minute of it. And hey, that's my life.

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If someone else did, who?
I made it myself. I took the photograph of myself (which might have been created in Microsoft paint) and cropped it down. Here is the original:

Then I took the cropped picture of me, and uploaded it to Picnik.com. I love Picnik. It's a free online photo editing service owned by Google. I decided to pay the $2.99 (or something) per month, and get the premium features. But you don't have to do that.  I resized the image, and then started creating. In the Effects section of Picnik, they have a Vignette option. I used that, and messed around with the color and the intensity until I got it right. That's how the faded border look was created.  Then I added the words "Life in the Pitts". Picnik has a ton of fun fonts to choose from, and you decide your own color. I played around with the angles of the words until they looked right.  The "a blog" in the upper corner? I faded those letters so that they wouldn't stand out very much. That corner just needed something, but I didn't want it to be distracting. Fading was a good choice (I think, at least).  Then I added a 1pxl dark blue border in the frames section, and was done.

Next I saved it. I saved a copy to my computer, but with Picnik you have a ton more options. They can save directly to your facebook, your blog, Picasa, etc. I saved mine directly to photobucket, so all I had to do was get that source code.

4) If you are looking for inspiration, what is the one blog you would turn to? 
Ugh. This is hard. I am a huge fan of Kim at 733 - - - A Creative Blog. She is giving my sister a blog makeover right now, and I'm really excited about her ideas. Just looking at her stuff makes me want to start fiddling with my blog!

5) What advice would you give to someone contemplating the creation of their own blog button?
You don't have to get it right the first time. This is version 8 or 9 for me, and I finally have it just how I want it (for now, at least). Keep fiddling and trying new things, and eventually you'll make one you love.

fingerprints on the fridge  This next button is absolutely adorable.  I love the simple color combo - brown and blue and the whimsical and flirty flower design.  The other thing that sticks out is the font.  Most fonts that are loopy and flowery are hard to read, but I think the word "fingerprints" - even with its loopiness is easy to read and recognize.  Love it!  I've been following Rachelle and her blog, Fingerprints on the Fridge for a while now, and it seems this blog and its button fit her personality.  Here's what Rachelle has to say about her button and her blog:

1) How would you describe your blog who hasn't been by to visit yet?

It's very random! I like to write about everything that keeps me sane while trying to raise two little girls. So it's anywhere from redecorating to crafting to life on a budget.

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?
I had the designers over at Designerblog.com do it for me. I'm far from computer savvy :)

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
I wanted it to be clean and feminine with a little whimsy, and they did it perfectly!

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
Clean looking buttons, nice colors, something that pops out as "fun".

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
I love love love connecting with women! Being home all the time can get lonely and after a while you start to lose your mind. I've met a ton of friends from all over the country that I absolutely adore. Besides that, blogging is an outlet for me, it gives me something to do, helps me finish projects on time and a confidence boost every time someone likes it. Because, who doesn't love hearing someone say your stuff is cute? ;)

My Junk Drawer  Kristen from My Junk Drawer has a super cute and wonderfully simple button that caught my eye right away as I was wandering through blogland.  Check out what Kristen has to say about her sweet little button. 

1) What five words would you use to describe your blog?

ideas, inspirations, creative, fun, friendship

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?
I made my button myself. I used picnik to do it. I had to upgrade to get the cute tree but it was well worth it. Picnik is very easy to use for these buttons!!

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
I was inspired to use something that came from the Earth. Something unique but cute. Then I saw that cute tree on Picnik and knew that was it. This tree was actually my second try at a button, the first was a smiley faced flower-cute but not exactly what I wanted. I LOVED the multi-colored "leaves" on it. I think it represents the different things I post.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
The buttons that stick out the most to me are the ones without people pictures. I like the ones that look clean and well made. The buttons I click on the most are either cutesy logos or simple ones like mine.

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
I am always inspired to keep blogging when I find new cute things that my fellow bloggers have made. I like to post their ideas to show my followers and to store in my labels area to keep for my own future projects. I also love the new friends that I am making. They are all so sweet!!

So get busy checkin' out the blogs behind the buttons and don't forget to say "HI!" to Helena, Rachelle and Kristen during your visit. 

Also, hop over to the blog button page and add your button.  You may be featured in the coming weeks.

Craft on!

monday's buttons - week 8

Remember when I showed you how to make chewing gum? Now you can, go here to enter and win your complete all-natural gum

(or chocolate or gummies candy) making kit! 

Three more beautiful buttons this week.

Last week's button were bold and bright.

This week's buttons are understated and elegant.

Enjoy!

3 Little Ones  Jackie is one busy mom of three, creator of a great blog and designer of a simple, clear, beautiful button. I have a thing for black/white/grey toned buttons, and the button for 3 Little Ones definitely feeds my craving.

1) What are five words you would use to describe your blog?

kids, family, green, frugal, fun

2) How do you think your button reflects these five words?

I think my button definitely lets you know that my blog tends to focus on my kids. I love to write about other things, but my kids are sometimes the easiest to write about - spending a day with them (or in my case, everyday) gives you lots of stories to laugh about!

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If someone else did, who?

Yes, I made my own :) I really wanted to have blog makeover done but didn't want to pay for it. So after some experimenting with pictures of my kids and playing around with paint.net (a free program that is very user friendly!) I came up with my banner and button. If you asked me when I started my blog last year if I would be able to make my own banner and button, I would have said you were crazy!

4) If you are looking for inspiration, what is the one blog you would turn to?

I love reading so many other blogs - one that I tend to look to look to a lot is Theta Mom - I started my blog around the same time she started hers and I'm inspired with how successful she has been.

5) When you are looking through a blog roll of buttons, what button features catch your eye the most?

I love blog buttons that have photos in them and I like for them to be easy to read. The simpler the better :)

 

From an Igloo  I just discovered From an Igloo this week.  I know . . . I know . . . I must be living under a rock!  As usual, I am the last to know about a fabulous blog.  Christine, the creator of From an Igloo, has a fabulous sense of style demonstrated in her super chic blog button.  She inspired someone to make this button for her, and I am loving the color combo and the simple but elegant design.  Here's what Christine had to say about her button:

 

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who has never visited?

My blog is a sewing/craft blog with the odd tasty treat thrown in the mix. I hope my blog inspires someone to make something hand made.

2) What do you think your button says about your blog? What do you like best about your button?
I hope my button says that my blog is unique! :)

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If someone else did, who?
Carly, from Playful Pickles Designs designed my button for me.

4) If you are looking for inspiration, what is the one blog you would turn to?
If I'm looking for crafty inspiration I either turn to One Pretty Thing or UCreate. If I'm looking for personal inspiration I read my friend Beth's blog who is a cancer survivor.

5) When you are looking through a blog roll of buttons, what button features catch your eye the most?
To be honest, usually it is the name of a blog that catches my interest the most, and maybe not necessarily the features of the button.

The Paper Pony  Bethany, the mastermind behind The Paper Pony, linked her button up on my blog button page.  (Go link yours up here and you might be featured next week.)

1) How would you sum up your blog in one sentence?
It began as a way to document projects and then, I started adding more and more notes so the many mistakes wouldn’t be repeated because I always think I can do more than I actually can which turned into full-on tutorials so anyone could make the projects as more people became interested and I learned how to take better photos and this is turning into one heckava run-on sentence! **I love how Bethany turned this into the longest sentence ever created.  She told me I could edit it, but I left it this way because it made me smile.  I hope it makes you smile too ;)**

2) What does your button say about your blog?
I hope it says “simplicity” because that’s kind of my philosophy about things- I don’t always follow it- but I want to. Also, “Hey, that chick seems like my kind of people” would be a nice thing for people to think about it.

3) Did you craft the button yourself? If so, what program did you use? If someone else crafted it for you, who?
I used Microsoft Publisher and some simple free-graphics. I think it’s pretty obvious that I don’t have any graphic design experience. I will be updating it soon, but it won’t change much. I just want the pony design to be my own- something no one else has and luckily, I happen to know an excellent horse artist (my mom).

4) When you look at a blogroll of buttons, what are that features of buttons that stick out to you the most?
Buttons that aren’t too busy and that are clear and easy to read.

5) If you could only hop over to ONE blog today, what blog would it be
Ooh, that’s a tough one. There are so many good ones and I’m discovering new ones every day. It would have to be One Pretty Thing. Then I could see lots of great ideas all at once and multiple times per day (she must be one of the hardest working bloggers out there!)


Go check out the blogs behind the buttons and don't forget to say "HI!" to each one of these lovely bloggers while you're visiting.  You'll find some great inspiration to ...

craft on!

monday's buttons - week 7

This week I have three buttons to show off that jump out in a sea of buttons because of their colors and quirkiness.  Check them out!  

Also, I've added a blog button linky page.  Although I try to go check out the blogs of every person who comments or follows, it's getting harder and harder for me to do that.  Usually, when I do a blog-check of a follower and/or commenter, I look to see if they have a button that I might like to feature in an upcoming Monday's Buttons post.  However, since it's getting harder to do that, I want to invite you to post your buttons on the linky page.  I will try to include one button that I like from the linky page every week. 

**I'm going to be a stinker about keeping this page to buttons only.  If you link up something other than a blog button, I will delete it.  Not because I don't like you or your blog . . . just because the point of a blog button linky page is to show off blog buttons.

Fireflies and Jellybeans  Six months ago when I started blogging, I really didn't get what following meant.  A friend had asked me to follow her blog about a year earlier, so I set up a google/blogger account to follow her blog, but I didn't actually ever read it.  (Sorry Grace!) One of the very first blogs I actually followed AND READ was Fireflies and Jellybeans.  Recently, Fawnda and Jeannine, F & J's authors, won a blog makeover.  (I have dreams of winning a blog makeover someday.)  The thing I LOVE most about their new button is that it incorporates a bit of the old blog banner with the F & J picture.  It's a new design that pays tribute to their old design. 

LOVE THAT!  

1) How would you describe your blog if you could only use five words?
Fun, Whimsical, DIY, Thrifty, Creative

2) How do you think your button reflects your blog?
I love that it is whimsical and fun! Just like our blog! I love the colors. Jeannine (my best friend and co-author) took the photos of the F & J so I love that is has a piece of her in it too!

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If you inspired someone else to craft it for you, who?

Indiechicks design created the button and the look of my blog.

4) What qualities/characteristics do you think make for a good button?

-I like buttons to look like the blog it comes from... I like things that match! :)
-I think that the font should be readable... some times the font can get too small or too curly to read. {I know that I am guilty of this too}
-I mostly like the simple ones.

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
I love the craft blog community! They are very supportive and fun! I also love the challenge of coming up with my next project. I try to be thrifty and green, the blog helps me get the motivation to actually make something from things that I already have! Basically I LOVE to blog and I think it is a great way to connect with others!

Megity's Handmade  Well, hello Megity's Handmade!  I came across this button last week, and I'm loving it.  Megan, the blog's mastermind, inspired someone to make this button for her, and I think it's the perfect color combo and funky, simple design.  I would never have thought to pair zigzags with a circle and a loopy handwriting font . . . which is why I'm probably not a blog designer.  Check out what Megan has to say about her button and her blog. 

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who hasn't read it yet?
I seem to always have a list of projects longer than anyone has time for in the day. Way longer! Before a project is close to being finished, I'm thinking of the next 12 things that I want to do. My blog is a hodgepodge of crafty endeavors, my Etsy shop, decor that I like and such.

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?
I had my button made for me. I tried to do it myself, but it wasn't worth the time to me. I wanted to use the time that I had and get something crafted! Sweet Jenna from {q.a} design http://qadesigns.blogspot.com/ did my button and header for me.

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
I wanted something fresh and light and clean. Just like the way that I want my home. I adore chevron pattern and my home is full of the blue and yellow combo. I also love that she made it circle so it stands out a bit more in a sea of other buttons.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
Always something clean and not too fussy.

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
I think what inspires me is that I enjoy making thing. Part of the fun of making things is the show and tell. It's an outlet for me as a mother of three. Three kids equal a lot of house work, all of the time. Nothing stays done for very long. I love having the pleasure of doing a project and having it stay completed. It's like an accomplishment!

Flamingo Toes  What?  That's the question I asked myself when this button first caught my eye.  What in the world is this blog Flamingo Toes about?  Hmmm . . . I'm a curious sort, so I had to find out.  I clicked on the button and found Beverly's blog.  Genius . . . name your blog something that makes people curious enough to click on a quirky cute button.  Read more. 

1) What is the inspiration behind your blog?

The inspiration behind my blog was to have a place to keep a record of the things I make, try new things, and get to know new friends. All of which I'm loving doing!

2) What does your button tell people to expect at your blog?

Well - I'm not sure how much my button tells people about my blog - other than I like flamingos. And I'm a little quirky. haha.

3) Did you craft your button? If so, what program did you use? If someone else crafted it for you, who?

I did make my button. I used Adobe Illustrator.

4) What do you think are important characteristics/features for people to keep in mind if they are thinking about adding a button to their blog?

I think a button needs to have your name of course, and also represent your blog image. Using the same colors, images - that sort of thing so that it all goes together.

5) What keeps you blogging?

Before I started blogging I was afraid I wouldn't be able to come up with any ideas or have anything to say - but I'm finding that the longer I do it, the more my brain is always buzzing with new ideas. I think it's like a muscle - gets stronger as you use it. And I'm sooo loving "meeting" new friends. Our little community is really full of some of the nicest people I've ever met.

Go check out the blogs behind the buttons.  Don't forget to say "HI!" and leave a little comment love!

Craft on!

monday's buttons - week 6

Three great buttons. 

Three great blogs. 

Three opportunities to be inspired. 

Check them out!

504 Main How did I not know this blog existed until a few days ago?  Have I been living under a rock?  I saw this button on another blog (whose button I hope to feature someday).  I clicked on it because I liked it, and I was transported into some sort of bloggy paradise!  Holly, the creator of 504 Main is a creative genius, and I'm thanking her button for leading me to her blog in this button shout out.  I'm also slightly giddy about showing off Holly's button because she's a super busy gal - she's an extremely successful blogger, she's an author of some great wedding books, and she's a mama.  And even with all those things going on, she replied to my initial e-mail within an hour.  I about fell off my chair.  I'm a follower and a fan.  I hope you are too! 

1) How would you describe your blog to someone who hasn't read it yet?

My blog is like my life...some days we hang out and chat, some days we craft, some days we make cookies, some days we make a mess! I want my blog to be comfortable and friendly like my home is {or a least think it is!}. I chose the name 504 Main because, "it could be anything, your home, the coolest restaurant, a hip hotel, a swanky lounge, a cool artists loft, your favorite coffee shop." You can read about that here, http://www.504main.com/2010/03/gal-behind-blog.html

2) Did you craft your button or did you commission someone else to craft it for you? If you crafted it, what program did you use? If someone else did, who?
This current button is a take-off on my header...I am all about having a complete and cohesive "package." Once we figured out what we were doing with the blog, the button just fell into place. I personally like a simple button that is easy to read. Diana {at the Girl Creative} created it when she redesigned my blog.

3) What was the inspiration behind your button? What did you want it to say about you or your blog?
When I first started to redesign my blog back in March, I was going for a whole different look...I said I wanted clean and modern and very simple....which is really not me or my style {anymore}. That was important to me because my blog is for me and I wanted it to be a true representation of me and my style. After looking at numerous digital kits and such I found this great photo of a brick wall and on it very small was "No. 5" - as with most things I love {like my wedding dress} I knew this was it - the look I had been searching for - right away.

I have a wedding blog too, www and I did do that button myself using photobucket.hipweddings.blogspot.com.

4) What kind of buttons stick out to you when you are poking around in the blog-world?
I will generally reciprocate a button grab. I do appreciate a simple well designed button - not too much stuff {text info, etc.} on it - with the right code! I want to be able to read it. But while I appreciate a good button, I mostly look for buttons of blogs that I feel are great assets and resource or good reads to those who read me.

5) What inspires you to keep blogging?
Although I am a published writer, my forte has been non-fiction {weddings specifically} and I never intended to be an author or writer at all! This blog pushes me to write and develop those skills. It has also renewed my creative endeavors. I had put a lot of "stuff" that I like to do on the back burner and with this blog, well, it is mine, it is for me, and I have started to create and design again.

I am inspired by the amazing women and men I have met out on the blog world - just think only one year ago, I thought blogging was ridiculous! There are so many talented people out there - great writers, great crafters, great DIYers, and simply great advice and information on life. I am truly amazed by the bloggers I find. I always love finding a new blog too!

6 Inches of Ribbon As you know if you've been around here for awhile, I'm addicted to two things - blog buttons and fabric remnants, but you may not have known that I'm also addicted to ribbon.  I love ribbon in all shapes, sizes, colors, patterns.  I just love ribbon.  That's why my ribbon antenna went right up when I saw this button pop off the page.  It's simple and it makes a statement.  Ashely, the blog creator and button designer of 6 Inches of Ribbon knew just what she was doing when she designed this little cutie!

1) What are five words you would use to describe your blog?

Crafts, Recipes, Family, Humor, Ribbons

2) How do you think your button reflects these five words?

Well, honestly I just love ribbon. That's really how I came up with the name of the blog and then the button came next. I try to use ribbon in a lot of craft things, but lately that hasn't been the case. I will def be trying to incorporate more ribbon in future crafts.

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If someone else did, who?
I did the button all by myself using Photoshop CS4. The button was simple to make, it was the program that was hard to use.

4) If you are looking for inspiration, what is the one blog you would turn to?
Oh, there are so many out there... hmmm. probably Blue Cricket Designs. I adore her blog and find so many creative ideas off of there.

5) When you are looking through a blog roll of buttons, what button features catch your eye the most?
Most of the time it is the fun, bright colored ones.  I like the very modern look to a button as well. Your button says alot about your blog. That's one reason I chose two different fonts and kept it simple with a white background and one picture.

9 o'clock Dance of Joy Last but certainly not least is a button from a blog I've been following for a few months.  However, Kenzie at 9 o'clock Dance of Joy just had a little blog makeover and a shiny new button came right along with it.  It caught my eye right away.  First, because it's not your typical button shape.  Second because I'm a big fan of the font.  Third, because the color scheme is simple and elegant.  Go check out Kenzie's blog not just for her pretty button, but also for her great blog soundtrack.  I'm pretty sure we were music twins separated at birth because I love every song she has on her playlist.

   

1) What are five words you would use to describe your blog?

Crafting, DIY, Fun, Family, Mommy Time

2) How do you think your button reflects these five words?

It's pretty?!?! I don't know if my button necessarily reflects these words. I really wanted a simple and elegant button that I was in love with!

3) Did you craft your own button or did you commission/inspire someone else to craft it? If you crafted it, what program/software did you use? If someone else did, who?
I can take no credit for my button, the amazing Lauren at Designer Blogs {www.designerblogs.com} is the mastermind behind my button!

4) If you are looking for inspiration, what is the one blog you would turn to?
This is a hard one, there are so many amazing blogs that I stalk on a daily basis! I would have to say that Stephanie Lynn at Under the Table and Dreaming is always inspiring! I love all of her projects! She provides the most amazing tutorials and is one of the nicest people that I have met in blogland!

5) When you are looking through a blog roll of buttons, what button features catch your eye the most?
All of them! I love buttons! I would have to say that my favorite buttons tend to be simple and elegant with a gorgeous font or picture!


Go wander over to see Holly, Ashely and Kenzie to say hi, see some great buttons and blog designs and be inspired by the blogs behind the buttons.

Craft on!