I think I'm on to something...

I always wanted a Cricut and I finally got one fall of last year. I found the Explore Air on sale at Michaels at the lowest price I had ever seen it, so I jumped at the opportunity. A few short weeks later they released the latest version (which would explain why it was priced lower). I was initially bummed, but not so much after comparing the models. I like how the new model looks, but aside from the look the only other thing I noticed that is different is that it cuts quicker.

When I first got my machine I made a few cards and a few other paper crafts. My first few experiences were less than ideal and I wish I had been more patient with myself. I wish that I actually took the time to watch how to YouTube videos! That would have saved me hours of frustration, haha. I definitely feel a lot more comfortable with my machine, but I still have yet to master all of its capabilities. I have to admit that my Cricut laid dormant for a while up until last week.

I've finally dabbled into the field of vinyl. I actually ordered vinyl and transfer tape on Amazon a few months ago, but I never got around to using them until recently. I've spent a lot of money on custom decals and other custom projects on Etsy. I like supporting small businesses, but I also like to have creative freedom and make things exactly how I envision them.

I went on a font downloading craze via dafont.com and dived right in. I wanted to make something for my side of our home office. I always thought the phrase "Whistle while you work" was the perfect quote for a work space. I cut the words out first and placed them on my canvas. I felt like something was missing so I decided to add apples to complete the look. I was so happy how it turned out. This piece catapulted me into a creative craze and I've been busting out signs left and right!

My first piece!

I wanted more practice making signs, so I made this for one of my bosses that loves the outdoors.

While making the "outdoors" sign, I thought it would be great to swap it with Disney instead!

I'm very much a dreamer!

Tangled is one of the most underrated Disney movies. I love this quote!

I think I've found my second calling... I've seen numerous wonderful handmade Disney signs before, but I've never seen any like mine. I've decided to take a leap of faith and try to sell my work. I feel that my creations are unique enough to stand out on their own and I've gotten so much positive feedback.

There are so many different avenues of selling items such as Etsy, Storeenvy, etc. I am trying Instagram first. Please check out _adventurelin and provide feedback! :)  To keep shipping costs minimal, I'm currently only selling canvases that are 10 x 8 inches or smaller. If someone local is interested in something, I'd be happy to create larger projects.

I'm really excited (and slightly nervous) to embark on this journey. Hopefully the rest of the Disney lovers in the world will find magic in what I make too!

With love,
-Lin

Prayer Flags

This is one of my favorite paintings I've done! I really wanted to do the Prayer Flags at Paint Nite because it reminded me of Animal Kingdom in Disney World. I was scrolling through prayer flag pictures at Animal Kingdom and I came across a picture from Expedition Everest. I knew I had to try to recreate it... And voila! 

My painting!

The original Paint Nite painting

Where I got my inspiration from - Animal Kingdom's Expedition Everest ride

Me, Vicky, Jenn

Paint Nite

I am a huge Paint Nite addict! I've done four paintings in the past 3 months, and I have five coming up. I haven't hung any up around my house yet, they're in a stockpile right now for when we upgrade into a bigger home! LOL. Paint Nite is so much fun. It's only $25 (with code Denali20 on their website). Most of the events are held on weeknights. At first I was unhappy that they are usually held on weeknights, but I quickly realized that I like it that way. It's a nice escape from work life.

I hope they do more beachy or sea/ocean themed paintings. That is really what I'm interested in. Some people have asked me why I don't just paint at home. I like getting instructions, I like the vibe of being surrounded by like-minded people, and I like that I'm out of the house away from distractions. They provide everything for you - paints, easel, brushes, canvas, and even an apron to wear. My girlfriend and I bring our own little bottles of paint too so we can add extra colors to our art. We buy little bottles of acrylic paint at Michael's for less than $1 each.

If you're looking to try something new, a fun night out with the girls or your man, I highly recommend Paint Nite! You don't have to be artsy or have any prior experience either. I can't tell you the last time I painted prior to last December. My suggestions if you're thinking about signing up? If it's a painting you're even mildly interested in - just sign up. You can reschedule it if something comes up (if you do it in a timely manner of course), as these events can sell out quickly. My other suggestion would be to show up at least 30 minutes possible to get a good seat.

Valentine's Day Banner

I made my first crafting project of the year! It's just a simple Valentine's Day banner. My sister got me a Banner Punch Board for Christmas and I was excited to put it to use. I already had some twine ($3 at Target) so all I had to buy was paper. I found a cute pack of 25 sheets for $3.99 that I bought with a coupon at Michaels.

The Banner Punch Board is so convenient. It also has a built in hole puncher. Someday I'll splurge and buy a Cricut, maybe I'll do that when I can have a dedicated crafting room. This little project only took about 15 minutes out of my day to complete it. :)

Christmas Wreath

I originally wanted to try making my own wreath for Christmas this year, but I fell in love with this wreath that I saw at Wal-Mart for $20. I figured it would cost me more in supplies if I wanted to make something similar, so I bought it.

I used hot glue and added more ornaments to make it look more "mine" and to make it look more full. I absolutely adore how it turned out!

Luau!

A few weeks ago my boss approached me and asked if I'd be willing to assist with prepping for the HR department luau. All I was tasked with was to get people to sign up with their food items and make sure they followed the theme and help decorate.

What I delivered were personalized food place cards, English/Hawaiian name tags, photo booth with props, and candy leis. I may have gone a little overboard, but it was so much fun! =)

My awesome coworker, Bronica, made this fruit tree!