handmade gifts | Bead Happily Ever After

Show and Tell Tuesday

Posted on February 1, 2011 by crystal

This week, I’m afraid you’re stuck with a Show and Tell Tuesday from me – same-old, same-old! 😉

But you Kids know I’d much rather have your photos! Remember, you can send pictures of anything you like – family, pets, back yard, favorite knick knack or collectible, craft project you are in the middle of (or have finished), last night’s dinner, book you’re reading, favorite snack, sentimental possession (Grandma’s brooch, etc.), the “bargain” you just purchased, or anything you just bought! Or none of the above – but something you choose! 🙂

I was sorting through some old photos and found these pictures of the little gift shop I had 20 years ago {Twenty??? thud! (I just fainted.)}.

Anyway, the shop was located in a refurbished barn. There were about 8 or 10 of us, each with our own section of a two-floor building. It was a charming mix of gifts, gourmet foods, and antiques. Country decor was very much in vogue at that time and my shop had quite a bit of it. A large proportion of my items were made by me, but I also had things on consignment from some wonderfully talented artisans.

Seeing this first photo reminds me of the fun I had during that time. Of course, it was also a lot of work to keep the shop stocked and looking pretty, but when you’re doing something you enjoy, you don’t really mind all the effort it requires.

Won’t you sign the Guest Book? 😉

Pillows and Quilting and Dolls – Oh My!

My mother made the large quilt. 🙂

Believe it or not, these Kitchen Angels were incredibly popular. I actually made hundreds of them during those years. One day, a lady came into the shop and bought all that you see in this photo. I was thrilled, needless to say!

More Cloth Dolls and Bunnies

My daughter pleaded with me not to sell the little doll with a bonnet (the one who’s holding a baby) – so I took her off the shelf after this photo was taken. That doll is here in the room with me now as I type – 20 years later! 😉

So, as Kevin Arnold (from The Wonder Years) would say . . . “And there you have it.”

Hope you liked my little gift shop show and tell.

Hugs,

Ho Ho Ho

Posted on December 15, 2010 by crystal

Today, I have one more scarf to show you!
Thank you Carol for sending me this pattern last winter. 🙂

At that time, I made one in a heavy-weight, raspberry-colored yarn, (See it here.) which I absolutely loved!

This time, though, I wanted to try it in a “sport weight” yarn, which makes a much more delicate scarf. It turned out really cute . . . shorter and narrower than my previous one, but because it’s so light, I think it would even be pretty to wear indoors.

Not sure how it shows on your screen, but this is a gorgeous shade of cherry red. It’s a Christmas gift for a family member, but my lips are sealed as to which one. 😉 (Ho, Ho, Ho!)

Hugs,

As the Shoppers Rush Home . . .

Posted on December 3, 2009 by crystal

Bundle up, Kids!

We’re going shopping again!

I’ve rented a bus, stocked up on cocoa and cookies, and handed the driver a big pile of Christmas CD’s.

Is it just me or does that guy remind you of anyone? Maybe it’s the long white beard and the red jacket. He seems to be in an awfully good mood too. He’s been ho, ho, ho-ing ever since he pulled up. 😉

Ok, seatbelts buckled? Then, we’re off to etsy!

Kanzashi Flower Bobby Pins

Who says you need a new holiday outfit? How about some festive new accessories, instead? Here’s a pretty pair of handmade kanzashi flower bobby pins in decadent ruby red. Petals of silk dupioni are layered in duchess satin, while a glittering crystal rhinestone accents the centers. From PetalMix

Embroidered Cuff

A magical concoction of snowflakes and sugar… Candy swirls, French Knots and Curly Wisps surround your wrist in purple, green, and red. An accessory for every holiday outfit…or just a pair of jeans and t-shirt! Made with an off-white, mottled wool. Backed with linen; vintage button closure. From Waterrose

Tiny Doll Bed

So TINY, so adorable!!! ALL Handmade and perfect for any doll that’s under 8 inches. Sturdy birch wood, hand cut, sanded, primed and painted with several coats of paint for LONG lasting play and enjoyment. Comes with a silky pink mattress, a blanket and a pillow, in lovely floral fabrics with pretty hand sewn trim. A sweet vintage baby lamb decal decorates the head and footboards with just a tiny dash of sparkly glitter. VERY limited item. From KittyKatDance

Colorful Pinch Bud Vases

Give the gift of art! Hand blown glass – Perfect for some stems from the garden, or for rooting new plants. Gorgeous transparent colors, pinched oval neck. From tannerglass

Yikes, look at the time! We’d better head home.

Aw…. Can you believe it? The poor driver fell asleep waiting for us. Guess he’s been working a lot of hours. He told me that this is the “busy season” at his other job. 😉

‘Til next time,

Let’s Go Shopping… Again!!

Posted on October 22, 2009 by crystal

Hi there!

It’s Crystal – your faithful cruise director. 😉

I’ve just rented a virtual bus with comfy seats and plenty of passenger room, so hop on and let’s go shopping!!!

We’ll be browsing on etsy today. In case we get carried away and lose all track of time – a brown bag lunch will be provided. Hope you like peanut butter and jelly!

Aw c’mon. The bus ticket is free! 😉

Card Table Playhouse
“The Animal Sanctuary”

Deep in the woods, in a Playhouse Neighborhood, is the Animal Sanctuary. All of the animals visit there! Fish swim in the pond, deer walk by the window, and the dragonflies dance in the summer air. Simply adorable! (Playhouse will fit over your own card table.) From: missprettypretty

Crochet Hat with 7 Interchangable Flowers

This darling hat comes with 7 interchangeable flowers to match any outfit! It’s available in 4 sizes – newborn to adult! From: 2crochetmamma

“Waiting For the Full Moon”
Fused Dichroic Glass Pendant

Shimmering Dichroic glass on a White Base sets the stage for this lonely tabby waiting for the Full Moon.
From: ccvalenzo

Acorn Coasters in Rich Fall Colors

So attractive! This set of four acorn coasters has two coordinating brown prints on the front, with a warm rusty brown backing. Topped with pretty decorative stitching. From: peganders

Well, it’s getting dark . . . we’d better get home.

Hope you had fun. Let’s do it again soon! 😀