Silhouette Heat Transfer Tutorial

Posted on June 6, 2013 by Roeshel

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I recently shared a tutorial for Silhouette Fabric Interfacing which is great for creating fabric appliqués.

Silhouette’s heat transfer material is another great option, especially when you don’t want to sew around a larger design or a lot of lettering. As a member of the Silhouette affiliate program, I had the opportunity to try the Silhouette Heat Transfer Starter Kit. I was not paid to share this tutorial but did receive the starter kit and receive a small percentage of sales generated from this month’s Silhouette Sale when readers use code “SHOWOFF” at checkout at Silhouette America. Promotion ends June 15th. Here are this month’s awesome deals:

If you’re a DIY Show Off social media fan, you may know that last year my mom battled breast cancer (doing great!) and just recently my younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is so brave and keeping a positive spirit. I’ve purchased her several fun t-shirts with sayings like “I pay my oncologist big bucks for this hair style.”, “Does this shirt make me look bald?” and “Save the Hooters.” She has a great sense of humor and is very social. She has a close group of friends who’ve nicknamed her “princess”. She also has an amazing sweet heart and her big concern right now is how others are affected by her diagnosis. So, I decided a “Keep Calm. Princess always lives happily ever after.” t-shirt would send a reassuring message to her social group.

The Silhouette Heat Transfer Starter Kit comes with:

3 sheets of smooth heat transfer material (9 in x 12 in of black, teal, dark pink)
2 sheets of flocked heat transfer material (9 in x 12 in of white and yellow)
Silhouette hook
exclusive download card good for 10 heat transfer designs
idea booklet and instruction guide
instructional DVD

Tutorial:

1. Download the heat transfer designs from the Silhouette online store. (I chose a design I already had on hand instead but love that bicycle!)

2. Create design in the Silhouette Studio.

3. Right click on each individual element of the design and click “FLIP HORIZONTALLY” to create a mirror image.

4. Send to cut. Choose Silhouette Heat Transfer (flocked or smooth…I used smooth).

5. Load paper shiny side down and adjust blade setting as recommended (2).

6. Cut and unload.

7. Remove negative heat transfer.

8. IMPORTANT: This is tricky with intricate designs and lettering. Be sure you’re in a well lit area so you can see the cut lines and utilize the Silhouette hook to remove small pieces of negative area when necessary. GO SLOW!

I did remove some of what I shouldn’t have and had to improvise…let’s not dwell on my imperfections. If you have the extra materials, you may want to do a “practice run” before your true project, especially if it’s your first time and if you’re creating a gift.

7. One side will be sticky with a backwards design. The other side is shiny and readable.

8. Place heat transfer/transparency sticky side down onto shirt or tote or dish towel.

9. Iron using a towel or scrap fabric between the transparency and iron according to directions.

10. Slowly remove sticky/shiny transparency. (If some of the design is still stuck to the transparency, replace and iron again.)

Ta-da!

Imperfections and all, I think she’s going to like it!

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED. WINNER is Rachael from My Disorganized Life.

How about a chance to win a Silhouette Portrait?

I excited to offer an opportunity to give one lucky DIY Show Off reader a Silhouette Portrait machine. Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Giveaway starts now and ends Sunday, June 9th. Winner will be chosen randomly and announced shortly after. Open to US residents only. Lots of chances to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Need more info? Check out these helpful YouTube videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvpSG7DqdAY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bA7jgv8BA-w

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwuItoS5ZXY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYDCiH2HlMg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VB2vHZoVvRE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVKuAIL9-pc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fGXW_8BbGQ

This project is sponsored by Silhouette America, who provided the heat transfer kit in exchange for a tutorial. Experience and opinions are my own. Sales generated from this post using code “showoff” earn me a small percentage of sales (thank you!) and Silhouette is providing a Silhouette Portrait to one lucky DIYShowOff reader (good luck!). Prize includes a Silhouette Portrait only and ships directly from Silhouette America. Other Silhouette materials are the responsibility of the winner.

Silhouette Portrait Fabric Interfacing Tutorial

Posted on May 23, 2013 by Roeshel

As a Silhouette America affiliate, I have the opportunity to try new products and earn a small commission on sales while passing along special promotions. Here’s the current deal with awesome savings. Just use code “SHOWOFF” at checkout.

Did you know that Silhouette America has fun products like sewable fabric interfacing (thinner for sewing into place and washable) and clean cut fabric interfacing (thicker for no sew/no wash projects) for creating fabric appliqués?

Here’s a tutorial on how it works: I chose the sewable fabric interfacing.

1. Pre-wash/shrink fabric and t-shirt.

2. Open the Silhouette Studio software and create a shape, monogram, even lettering for words. I easily purchased a ‘greyhound shape’ from the Silhouette online shop for 99 cents for labeling the pet food jars a while back that I can use over and over again. The little girl in me decided to create a pink chevron appliqué for a plain white t-shirt. For me. To match my dog. I’m a dork like that.

3. It’s easy to size in the software. I place my shape in the top left hand corner of the “cutting mat” in the open studio software.

4. Cut the appropriate sized piece of fabric and interfacing.

5. Next, iron together a piece the sewable fabric interfacing (rough side) to a piece of scrap fabric (cut to size) on the back/wrong side using the appropriate settings for the fabric.

{Wow! I guess I did get some sun in Mexico in Feb! I tan super easy/quick even with sunblock.}

6. Peel away the paper…you’ll see the ‘interfacing/glue’ has transferred to the fabric.

7. Then place the fabric onto the cutting mat (into the same location as shown in the Silhouette Studio software) and insert into the machine.

8. Hit “send to Silhouette”, change the blade and cut settings.

9. Click “cut”.

10. Once it’s finished cutting, remove the fabric from the cutting mat, toss the scraps and you’re left with an iron-on fabric appliqué.

11. Next I positioned the appliqué onto my t-shirt and ironed it on (using the heat setting for cotton). This holds it into place.

12. Then added stitching as close to the border as I could get with the sewing machine to make it more secure and durable for washing. Tip to help maneuver curves in a design: with the needle down (piercing the fabric appliqué), lift the foot then slide around the t-shirt, put the foot back down and resume sewing. Also, make sure NOT to sew the front of a shirt to the back while sewing!

All done! Here is what it looks like inside out and all complete…

Cute! I love it.

Me & CocoRosie…

Yes, this little Italian Greyhound has stolen my heart in the 1 month since we rescued her…

Note: I purchased the matching pink chevron dog leash (shown) and chevron dog collar (not shown) at Etsy shop, Learned Stitchworks. I loooove it (Thanks for the purple set too, Karen!) Gorgeous color choices, beautiful handmade quality, BEST pricing ever! Very satisfied customer. I need a set in every color, don’t you?

I purchased the (Riley Blake) pink chevron fabric from Fabric.com (leftover from the DIY dog bed cushion I made).

Back the fabric interfacing…It’s great for making personalized tea towels, baby blankets, tote bags, t-shirts, monogrammed pillow covers.

So not only does my Silhouette cut paper, vinyl and chipboard, it cuts fabric too! One more reason you can’t live without one!

Use code “SHOWOFF” at Silhouette America (this affiliate link) from now through May 31st to take advantage of the special pricing.

And how about a chance to win a Silhouette Portrait machine?!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. Winner is Benny who says “My son is getting married soon, I would make ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ appliqued t-shirts.” Congratulations, Benny! Benny has been notified by email to claim her prize.

Giveaway starts today, 5/23 and ends Monday, May 27th at midnight EST. Winner will be chosen randomly and announced shortly after. Prize: Silhouette Portrait machine (supplies not included). This giveaway is sponsored by Silhouette America and open to US residents 18+ only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more chances to win, visit these blog friends:

Silhouette Chipboard & a Giveaway

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Roeshel

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*This giveaway is now closed. Winner is Alexandra “I would love to use it to cut fabric and vinyl! I would love to make some art for my living room!” Congratulations, Alexandra. I will be contacting you through email with instructions to claim your prize!

Did you notice the “Hello Sunshine” banner on the patio swing makeover yesterday?

Silhouette now has chipboard! Adding another FUNction to my Silhouette machine. Love it! {This is a sponsored post with affiliate links when using code “showoff”.}

Chipboard Banner Tutorial

I created my banner letters using the Silhouette Studio software and sent to “cut”. Add chipboard to cutting mat and insert into the machine. Remember to change the settings for each page to “chipboard” and to change the blade depth before cutting.

Two ways to paint chipboard letters (I used acrylic craft paint):

1. Remove lettering and paint. You will have painted fingers when trying to hold letters.

2. Don’t punch out chipboard. Paint lettering intact then punch out when dry. Letters will need touched up when removed from chipboard.

I painted both sides. Letters may need to be placed under weights (books) to flatten when dry.

When dry, using a hole punch, I placed two small holes at the top of each letter.

And laced with two long pieces of ribbon (long enough for my words “Hello Sunshine”, including room for spacing and tying the ends. I laced starting in the back of the letter and pulling the ribbon through to the front, then into the second hole, coming out the back.

Tie off the ends.

Ready to hang! I think I’m going to add a little color to my banner. And I’m going to love making customized party banners.

May’s Promotional Bundles

Visit Silhouette America and use the promotional code “SHOWOFF“ http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/chipboard to take advantage of these amazing deals:

(1) 1 Silhouette CAMEO®, 1 pack of chipboard, 1 natural dust cover, 1 $25 download card: $269.99

(2) 1 Silhouette Portrait™, 1 pack of chipboard, 1 grey dust cover, 1 $25 download card: $129.99

(3) 1 pack of chipboard, 1 $25 download card: $19.99

ENTER TO WIN A SILHOUETTE PORTRAIT:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US residents and runs Wednesday, May 8, 2013 until Monday, May 12, 2013. Winner will be chosen randomly and announced shortly after. Good luck!

Here’s a video with some awesome information on the new chipboard: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DL2qbJyUCu4&list=UUdt8jBsW4kvA__vAcAGMvBw Enjoy!

Silhouette Portrait Giveaway

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Roeshel

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The promotion with GREAT savings ($7.50 for vinyl and transfer paper) using code “SHOWOFF” at checkout runs through 4/26.

This giveaway is now closed. Winner is Ruth: ”I have been wanting to add a compass rose to an end table in my living room, so I think that would be my first project.” Congratulations, Ruth! I hope to see the table! I will contact Ruth by email.

One of the things I love about owning my Silhouette is the ability to create cute customized vinyl labels…

labeled storage dresser in hallway

And since welcoming CocoRosie to our family recently….

{awe! those eyes!!}, anyway…I wanted to transfer pet food to an airtight container rather than dishing out from a pet food bag. Nothing pretty about those, ya know? I love glass jars but the cat food and dog food look very similar, so cute labels are a great solution.

It’s super easy to design my labels using the Silhouette Studio and purchasing/ downloading ‘silhouette’ shapes (and extra fonts) from the Silhouette store. Most run around .99 and stay in my ‘library’ for repeated use.

Cutting the vinyl is a cinch too…just load the vinyl, set the blade and click “send to Silhouette” to cut.

Peel away the un-used/negative part of the vinyl design (also called weeding).

You’ll have a vinyl “sticker” but peeling away the letters and placing by hand for me means creating a slanted label that isn’t ‘level’ and guessing on spacing. This is where transfer paper comes in handy. It “transfers” the vinyl design while keeping the design exactly spaced/level as it shows on the paper.

How Transfer Paper Works: Simply cut a piece of transfer paper to size.

Peel away the waxy backside (the transfer paper is the sticky/tacky paper).
Place the transfer paper over the vinyl design you just weeded.
Rub (I use a gift card/credit card).
Then peel the backing away (waxy thicker paper). The design is now stuck (backward) to the transfer paper.
Place the design/transfer paper onto the glass. Rub with a credit card.
Peel away transfer paper. Vinyl design stays adhered to the glass.

Here’s what I whipped up in less than 30 minutes {containers are from Garden Ridge and scoops from a local commercial restaurant supply store}:

Labeled Pet Food Containers

See MORE of my Silhouette projects here.

If you’ve been waiting for the monthly promotion to get a Silhouette, now is the time!

Silhouette April Special (just use promo code “SHOWOFF” to get the discount)

Silhouette affiliate link

Promotional Pricing Details: sale runs from 4/18-26th at Silhouette America.

1 Silhouette Portrait™ + 1 roll of black vinyl, 1 roll of white vinyl, and 1 roll of transfer paper: $139.99
1 Silhouette CAMEO® + 1 roll of black vinyl, 1 roll of white vinyl, and 1 roll of transfer paper: $269.99
All premium vinyl bought outside of a machine bundle is 25 percent off with promotion code: SHOWOFF.

Note that the vinyl discounted in the promotion is all 9” x 10’. Also, and this is very important, vinyl is actually discounted BIG TIME. It used to cost $14.99 and is now reduced to $9.99 with an additional 25% promotional discount. I’m going to be stocking up!

How to Enter to win a Silhouette Portrait:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway runs from April 18^th to the 20^th. Open to US residents. Silhouette provided me with the vinyl for my project, the Silhouette Portrait for 1 lucky DIY Show Off reader and a small percentage of sales generated with the “showoff” promotional code. Thanks and GOOD LUCK!

Visit the blog friends below for MORE chances to win:

DIY Spring Sign

Posted on March 1, 2013 by Roeshel

It’s March! And that means spring is right around the corner I hope. Even though I’m looking at snow flurries, a little spring decorating is in order. I’m impatiently waiting and well, why not prepare to welcome spring when it arrives? A new DIY spring sign always gets motivated to decorate and a catchy spring phrase reminds me it’s almost time to celebrate warmer weather and longer days!

“Something in the air this morning made me feel like flying. . . “

Spring Flight

-Eileen Granfors

For this project, I gathered

an old canvas
acrylic craft paint
my Silhouette Studio Designer Edition software
my Silhouette Cameo.

Since I had messed up the canvas with a previous DIY fail (yes, it happens!), I gave it a coat of soft blue acrylic paint to cover up my error to create a blank slate. The texture of the failed project shows through a bit, but imperfection is charm and a little texture isn’t such a bad thing.

I created my spring stencil using the Silhouette Studio Designer Edition software which allows me to select fonts, sizes and shapes to create a stencil template. Then simply ‘send’ to cut…

Since I’m using my vinyl as a stencil, I removed all of the letters (these can also be saved to use in the same was as stickers or transferred directly to wood or glass as a vinyl transfer).

Use transfer paper over top of the stencil to transfer the vinyl stencil to the canvas. Rub into place and peel away the transfer paper.

It’s not quite that simple. Vinyl doesn’t stick so well to canvas, so it takes a lot of patience. Go slow.

The stencil is all ready to go.

I filled in my lettering with white acrylic craft paint. Since the vinyl does not have a great seal, I’m using my stencil as a guide and filling in the letters with a little bit of paint on the brush, pressing down the vinyl as I work on each individual letter. Slopping it on, will get under the vinyl.

Next, I carefully removed the vinyl stencil as soon as I finished painting and let my canvas dry.

Then just collected some of my favorite spring-y decor and created a vignette around my DIY spring sign as a focal point. Good bye winter blues!

Hello spring!

Silhouette America is running a crazy spring special you won’t want to miss! Just use the code “SHOWOFF” at checkout {affiliate link} now through March 8th to take advantage of the discount prices.

I’m ready for spring, all ready! How about you? Open up those drapes, let the light in and decorate!

Looking for more spring ideas?

Joining the Easter Crafts & Spring Link Party at HoneyBearLane.

The Countdown to Spring party is underway.

and being hosted by MaryAnn from Domestically Speaking this week with her gorgeous spring-inspiring mantel. Here’s a sneak peek…

Check it out!

Silhouette Double Sided Adhesive

Posted on February 14, 2013 by Roeshel

“Today will be the best day ever” … what a great quote to start each morning. Using Silhouette’s double sided adhesive, I now have a pretty glittery reminder that each day is a blessing.

I started by placing my text on a template in the Silhouette studio…

then simply loaded my paper/mat into my Cameo, adjusted my settings for cutting and sent it to cut….

What’s cool about the double sided adhesive paper is you remove the backing, press on the letters just like stickers, then remove the top white sheet, leaving transparent SUPER tacky tape in your perfect shape or text.

The Silhouette Double Sided Adhesive kit comes with glitter and flocking. I chose the pretty turquoise glitter and brushed it into place…

It’s super-fine and a bit of a chore to clean up but the result is awesome! I loved watching my transparent letters glitter, shine and come to life.

Then I snagged an old thrift store frame. gave it a coat of Rust-Oleum spray paint in “lagoon”…

and framed my new glittery print:

Doesn’t it just make you happy to read it…like seeing those words help start the day off on the right foot.

I use my Silhouette Cameo all.the.time. Don’t have one yet, want to try the double sided adhesive starter kit or TONS of other fun cutting projects? Simply use the code “SHOWOFF” at Silhouette America before the end of the day TODAY! (2/14) for an awesome discount. {Sorry for the late notice this time but by ordering now you can have it in time to create a really cute Pottery Barn inspired Happy Easter banner…that’s my plan!!}

Chevron Reindeer Games sign tutorial

Posted on November 23, 2012 by Roeshel

DIY Chevron Reindeer Games Sign

It’s officially time for Christmas decorating in our home! I know! By blogging standards, I’m late to the game. With a family room makeover in progress, it’s at a point where plans for completion can be put on hold until after the holidays and I can still decorate that room to be pretty once I put away the ladder and some tools. I really loved the chevron garden sign I made for summer {here}. I decided I wanted to create a fun colorful Christmas sign incorporating some of the fun colors in the fabric I chose for the curtains.

Remember the tabletop I replaced on the kitchen bar for the apartment? {If not, you can see my post on my DIY wood plank kitchen bar top.} Time to recycle it! I knew it’d be a great material for a DIY sign one of these days. Tabletop to holiday decoration. Why not? To prep for making a sign, I scuffed up the finish with sandpaper and gave it a coat of left over teal paint and let it dry. I’ll call it my “canvas”.

This is what the top looked like before:

kitchen island before

Tips for creating a chevron pattern using FrogTape:

It’s hard to explain how to create a chevron pattern words/pictures {next time I’ll do a video} but some tips:

My first row is measured. 5″ strips of FrogTape.

Depending on how it would line up, I creased the edges of the tape (non-sticky side) to create a line for cutting.

Cut on fold.

I placed the angled side on my center pencil line and cut the bottom flush with the bottom of the canvas and smoothed it into place.

I drew vertical lines with my pencil from the peaks and “v’s” of my first chevron row.

Once my first line was in place, I used a piece of FrogTape for spacing, I worked from the center out by placing another longer piece of tape angled from the center pencil line down to the right pencil line.

Then I pulled up a corner and folded it on the pencil line so I would know where to cut. Most of the time, the pencil transferred to the sticky side of the tape, creating a cutting guide.

I repeated those steps until I reached the top and finished.

I used pink and white craft paint to add more color.

My plan was to paint the blue area showing green and peel away the FrogTape, but I decided to keep the FrogTape in place. {Paint colors: Benjamin Moore Pacific, DecoArt Pretty in Pink “Hope Pink” and Americana Warm White, Green is FrogTape}

Using my Silhouette Cameo, I chose a reindeer from the online store and my Cameo cut it out {brown vinyl}. I created my letters for “Reindeer Games December 25th” using the software and chose the premium dark red vinyl and LDI Fancy Font. I peeled away the negative vinyl (the parts that are not the design) and applied my transfer paper. I made sure the transfer paper was secure by rubbing with a credit card.

Peel away the backing {the vinyl is transferred to the tacky transfer paper} and place on canvas. Rub the design with a credit card to get it to stick and peel away the transfer paper. In my case, all of the design wasn’t transferring, so I had to be careful and some of my reindeer was applied just as I would a sticker.

I followed the same steps for my lettering, however, knowing that the transfer paper was tricky for my project, I chose to use Delicate Surface FrogTape (the yellow tape) to help transfer my letters. This worked a little easier than applying by hand like stickers and kept my lettering evenly spaced and level.

I haven’t had time yet, but since I have FrogTape and vinyl on my sign, I’m going to seal everything with a coat or two of ModPodge. Ta-da!

Non-traditional. Colorful. Fun. I love it. It fits in perfectly with my eclectic colorful family room.

What do you think? I just sort of quickly staged for photos so I could share this today. I’ll be re-arranging, re-decorating. In fact, this mantel is even moving to another wall. More on the family room renovation and Christmas decorating coming soon.

I will attach a saw tooth hanger to the back and hang and rearrange but…I wanted to get this done to share and to tell you something important:

*I was not compensated for my review but I did receive vinyl and I participate in the Silhouette America affiliate program and will earn a percentage of sales when you use the code “SHOWOFF” for your purchase. This is a sponsored post brought to you by FrogTape. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. Results may vary.

Party time:

Songbird & Cottage Magpie

Black Friday Sale

Posted on November 23, 2012 by Roeshel

Silhouette America Black Friday Sale

Visit this page: http://silhouetteamerica.com/blackfriday.aspx and use the code SHOWOFFto get:

1 Silhouette CAMEO® plus 1 copy of Silhouette Studio® Designer Edition (MSRP $349.98) for $229.99
1 Silhouette Portrait™ for $179.99
40% off! {WOW!} at silhouetteamerica.com (Offer only valid at silhouetteamerica.com. % discount excludes Silhouette CAMEO®, Silhouette Portrait™, downloads, download cards, subscriptions, and gift cards).

USE the promotional code “SHOWOFF” to take advantage of the great Black Friday deals starting NOW {12 a.m. midnight EST}. WHILE SUPPLIES LAST! No waiting in line but you’ll have to act fast!

Later Friday morning I’ll be sharing a tutorial for my DIY Chevron Reindeer Games Sign…

You can make SO.MANY.THINGS. with the assistance of Silhouette’s electronic cutting tools! My favorite Silhouette projects are DIY signs but I love that without leaving the house, I can create gifts, party placecards, cards, decorations easily with scrapbook paper or vinyl I have on hand. And this time of year is a great time to have all of the cutting help you can get for creating decor and gifts!

——>click here to go to the secret link/Black Friday Silhouette America sale!<——

First, the winner of the Silhouette Portrait giveaway is…

Congratulations, Rebecca!! Rebecca has been emailed with instructions to claim her prize.

*I was not compensated for my review but I did receive vinyl and I participate in the Silhouette America affiliate programand will earn a percentage of sales when you use the code “SHOWOFF” for your purchase…so thank you in advance! Amazon is also an affiliate link – lots of great deals!

Kitchen Island Makeover

Posted on September 25, 2012 by Roeshel

We’re starting to furnish the apartment – on a very tight budget. An old inexpensive portable kitchen bar/island with bar stools is something we’ve had sitting around and the perfect size for creating a dining area in a tiny apartment.

But the old top was in bad condition. Pictures don’t show the pink stains (Kool-Aid, maybe or magic marker) and scratches…

I removed the top.

The frame was spraypainted white to freshen up an old scratched finish.

New top was made using alternating sizes of 1×3 and 1×5 pine planks cut to 40″ in length…a little bigger than the previous table top.

Boards were sanded.

I used wood glue to assemble the planks together…

Then clamped until the glue dried, wiping away excess wet glue.

I didn’t take pictures but I stained and used my Silhouette Cameo to make some ‘postage’ themed stencils at Ali’s request. Then sealed the top with about four coats of polyurethane and let dry.

The bar stool tops were sanded and taped off using FrogTape while frames were spray painted a fresh new coat of white.

I applied a coat of stain to the top of the barstools…

When that was dry, I used my Silhouette Cameo to create number stencils with a circle border. Using transfer paper, I applied the stencils to the top of the stools. (They didn’t stick to the shiny finish of the stain very well and took a little work to remove the transfer paper, but I managed to do it! I’d recommend staining after the numbers have been painted…although it will change the color of your paint unless you’re using a clear coat. Removing the vinyl also pulled off some of the finish…but that just added to the distressed character of the top of the stools.)

I painted in my stencils using acrylic craft paint and immediately removed the vinyl stencil.

I let the numbers dry over night and then applied several protective coats of Polycrylic, allowing it to dry between each coat (also lightly sand using a fine grit between coats).

So cute, aren’t they? Better pictures coming up in the apartment reveal. That’s where this kitchen bar set will be living. VERY SOON! Hurray!

Sharing over at Beth’s this week:

I LOVE my Silhouette Cameo – it’s my #1 way to create vinyl stencils. There’s also a special going on right now with the new Silhouette paper label kit! So cool – print and cut your own labels! There are so many fun ways to use this machine. LOVE that!

Enter the unique promo code SHOWOFF to get 1 CAMEO, 1 package of printable gold foil, 1 package of printable silver foil, and 1 package of printable white sticker paper for $269.99. (Savings of almost $57!) These are brand new Silhouette products that just got back in stock after they sold out after release, so don’t wait too long!

Use the promo code “SHOWOFF” and click this link to get this sweet deal: http://www.silhouetteameria.com/blog-special-media-1.aspx. The discount will run through the 30^th of September

~*~*~*~

The Silhouette America link is an affiliate link. I make a small percentage of sales. I share about my experience with my Silhouette Cameo in my own words.

This is a sponsored post brought to you by FrogTape. The opinions are completely my own based on my own experience.

How to make a distressed chevron sign

Posted on August 27, 2012 by Roeshel

I wanted something bold to add to our summer mantel and decided a large distressed wooden chevron garden sign was the perfect focal point.

Materials:

scrap wood planks (I used two 1x4s and two 1x5s)
furring strip (cut into 2 pieces a little smaller than the width of my four 1x4s)
Gorilla wood glue
3 colors of paint (I used acrylic craft paint in white, green and brown)
glaze (or watered down brown paint)
Frog Tape Delicate (I used the 1.41 in. wide)
vinyl stencil (I created mine using my Silhouette Cameo)
(2) saw tooth picture hangers

Tools:

Sander (or sanding block)
Paint brushes
Clamps
Saw

Distressed Chevron Sign Tutorial: 1. I cut my scrap wood planks to measure 32 inches each. 2. Using Gorilla wood glue, I glued my planks together, clamped and let dry. 3. I glued two furring strips to the back for extra protection and added weights while they dried. You could also screw the furring strips into each plank.

4. Once all of the glue was dried, I sanded the edges of my boards.

5. Next I gave my sign a coat of white paint all over using a dry brush technique. 6. Once the paint was dry, I chose FrogTape Delicate (for freshly painted surfaces) and created a chevron pattern. I used a small piece of the tape to create spaces. 7. Once my FrogTape design was set, I rubbed down the edges and gave the untaped areas a coat of green paint. 8. Then a coat of glaze, brushed on, wiped off. I love that it gives it a summer grass/garden dirt feel. 9. As soon as I finished applying the glaze, I removed my tape and let the sign dry.

10. I love having a Silhouette Cameo (affiliate link below for a great deal) because I can create my own custom vinyl stencils, decals or lettering as needed. I created an cut out a garden quote with my Cameo and using transfer paper, applied the stencil to my sign (I also saved the letters as stickers to make another sign). 11. Using my brown craft paint, I gave each letter a couple of coats of paint. 12. As soon as I applied the last coat of paint to each letter, I removed my vinyl stencil and let the sign dry. 13. Attach saw tooth picture hangers to the back and it’s all done! I love how it turned out. Just the right amount of bold for my summer mantel!

{pallet shelving in faux mantel} A little inspiration for canning tomatoes this weekend… Summer is just about over (but you’ll be seeing this sign show up somewhere else very soon) and I’ll be working on putting together my fall mantel. And guess where I’ll be sharing? At the Countdown to Fall party coming up soon! Time to get your autumn projects ready and join in the fun!

The DIY Fall Festival will also be starting soon! Get a head start on inspiration for your fall DIY projects from previous years’ DIY Fall Festival parties. DIY Fall Decorating, Recipes and Crafts

I received vinyl to share this tutorial and will receive a percentage of sales from this SILHOUETTE end of summer PROMOTION: This promotion runs from August 23 through the 31^st.Using the discount code “SHOWOFF” will get you a nearly $75 discount when you visit this affiliate link:http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/blog-vinyl-5.aspx. Plus, all vinyl will be 40% off when you use the “SHOWOFF” promo code.

This is a sponsored post brought to you by FrogTape. The opinions and instructions are completely based on my own experience.

How to make an established/monogrammed sign {bridal shower gift}

Posted on July 13, 2012 by Roeshel

I’ve always wanted to make an established sign as a gift and a recent bridal shower was the perfect occasion.

How to make an established/monogrammed sign.

Materials:

Wood 18 x 9 x 1
TransTint Dye (Dark Walnut or Dark Mission Brown)
Craft Paint (gray and white)
Stencil (I used a vinyl stencil I created with my Silhouette Cameo)
Spray Lacquer
Sawtooth picture hanger

Tutorial:

I sanded down a pretty piece of wood then died it with my favorite color of TransTint Dye from Rockler a long time ago as part of my participation with the DIY Club. I seriously love this product. A little goes a long way and I can control the color – just add water. I also love that I can let the unused portion sit on a shelf. Water evaporates and I can just add water to re-use the unused portion. I’ve used it on many projects and have so much left!

Using my Silhouette Cameo, I designed and cut out a monogram, border and last name vinyl stencil. {Be sure to measure the sign and create a border/design that fits within those measurements.}

I peeled off the letters and used the “negative” part of the vinyl as a stencil. Placing it straight was the hardest part. Holding it up to the light and cutting straight lines using the guide on the back of the vinyl was helpful.

I pulled away the wax paper, applied the vinyl stencil and made sure it was all good and stuck by rubbing the design with a credit card.

Slowly peel away the backing…

Next I painted the border, monogram and “established 2012″ using gray acrylic craft paint. I gave it a few coats.

I’m impatient, so I let it dry a few minutes then peeled away the vinyl. Then I let it dry fully.

I created another vinyl stencil of the last name and cut it out using my Silhouette Cameo. Once the first paint was dry, I followed the same steps to apply the last name stencil. I placed the name in the center of the sign and used white paint.

Let dry. Last step is to attach a hanger to the back {make sure the nails/screws aren’t bigger than the depth of the wooden sign!}. I also gave my sign a coat of spray satin matte lacquer.

Ta-da! I personalized gift:

{So sorry about the low light/poor quality pictures! Ugh! I didn’t realize until pictures were uploaded after the gift was given.}

What do you think?

Wish me luck today. I’m heading to the apartment (enlisting the help of my 19-year-old nephew) to tackle my first attempt to sand hardwood floors!

Enjoy the weekend!

OH! It’s the LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THE BETTER HOMES & GARDENS “Color Guide” and ”New Cottage Style” decorating book giveaway. Need some inspiration? Stop over to enter to win!

BHG Decorating Book Giveaway

bhg.book.collage

Disclaimer: I created the above project using some supplies I’ve received in the past for previously sponsored projects. Opinion is my all mine based on my experience.

Rustic {Hunger Games} love quote sign tutorial

Posted on April 11, 2012 by Roeshel

I personally haven’t had a chance to read the series (or see the movie) but it is on my reading list (I’m just starting the 3rd in the Bronze Horseman series) but I do love to read and I do love DIY and rustic charm. Our talented DIY friend, Angie from
has combined all of that to create a beautifully inspiring piece for her master bedroom…

Continue reading →

DIY Project Parade – Peacock Feather Triptych Canvases

Posted on March 25, 2012 by Roeshel

I recently shared a tutorial for peacock feather triptych canvas art at the DIY Club and wanted to share with you here too.

Continue reading →

DIY Peacock Feather Triptych

Posted on March 16, 2012 by Roeshel

My daughter, Ali, recently scored three canvases at the thrift store for about .79/each. Then, after seeing a peacock triptych here, we decided to try our own peacock feather silhouette using the colors for her planned dining room.

dining room color palette

Continue reading →

DIY Project Parade ~ Wood block accent tutorial

Posted on February 5, 2012 by Roeshel

Once upon a time at Hobby Lobby, I saw a chunk of wood. It was black with white “No. 1″ and distressed and I wanted it, but then the thrifty DIY girl in me decided – “I can make that from scrap wood easily”! AND make it to look however I want and so my DIY brain got to thinking and this is what I came up with…

Continue reading →

Silhouette America's Black Friday Deal and Paper Christmas Ornaments

Posted on November 25, 2011 by Roeshel

Black Friday! Are you out taking advantage of the sales? I don’t brave the cold, the lines, the crowds or the wait. When you’re reading this, I might be snug in my bed dreaming of shopping. I might be sitting here catching up with blog posts and waiting for you to comment, wishing I had a Cameo to give away (but I don’t). More than likely, I’m painting walls.

I received the details of Silhouette America’s Black Friday deals. Then I thought of you. Then I decided to make some ornaments using my Cameo because I love this machine…

Then, I thought…it’d be fun to create some ornaments for one lucky DIY Show Off reader. And because you’re reading my post today (HAPPY FRIDAY! Thanks so much for stopping by!), I thought I’d do a little giveaway. It not much, just a small holiday surprise for one reader. Using my Cameo, I’ll cut out some paper ornaments (some assembly may be required) to coordinate with the winner’s decor.

Paper Ornament Giveaway

How to Enter:

Please read about the awesome Silhouette deal below and answer the question I snuck into the Black Friday Sale text. Sneaky! :)
Like the DIY Show Off on Facebook and tell me what your Black Friday plans. Comment that you’ve done so.
Facebook/Tweet about this giveaway.

Comments today through Sunday, 11/27 at midnight EST are qualified. U.S. residents only. I will choose an entry using random.org and announce the winner shortly after.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. WINNER IS…

Korrie@RedHenHome said… 4

Lately I’ve been using red and lime green for my Christmas decorating. For my wreath this year, I think I’ll use orange since that’s the color I painted my front door!

~*~*~*~

If you’re wanting to add the Cameo to your holiday wish list, now is the time to get one at an amazing cost. The benefits: All year long you can make: personalized gifts and cards, place cards, gift tags, gift boxes, party favor boxes, ornaments, cut out heat transfers for clothing, cut fabric, go crazy and label everything in your house with vinyl, create vinyl wall decals, signs, art, create a beautiful party with awesome cutouts, more, more, more…there are so many DIY projects that you’re definitely going to get your money’s worth right back into your everyday projects.

So here’s the Black Friday deal from Silhouette America:

Use the discount code SHOWOFF at Silhouette America for an additional 10% off their already 30% off promotion! (THAT’s 40% off of supplies including Starter Kits, new Tote Bags, Silhouette Designer Software and more.

You won’t find the Cameo there, to purchase the Cameo at a special Black Friday discounted price, you’ll have to use the discount code “SHOWOFF” at
THIS SECRET LINK!!!
(Even I don’t kno
w the secret discounted price – it’s a surprise!)

Use the code SHOWOFF to take advantage of this amazing deal!

They WILL sell out so hurry over!

CLICK HERE TO GET 40% OFF OF ACCESSORIES AT SILHOUETTE AMERICA.
USE DISCOUNT CODE: SHOWOFF
CLICK HERE TO GET THE CAMEO AT A SPECIAL BLACK FRIDAY PRICE.

Black Friday sale runs from Nov. 25 (12:00 a.m. MST) through the 28th.

***Leave a comment telling me the colors or theme you use to decorate for the holidays to enter the paper ornament giveaway shown above.***

*The Cameo was provided by Silhouette America to share tutorials, projects and promotions with DIY Show Off readers. Projects, tutorials, materials and opinions are my own. As a Silhouette America affiliate, using the code SHOWOFF will earn me a small commission. I appreciate your orders using the SHOWOFF discount code.

HEAD OVER TO THE

TO CHECK OUT SOME PRETTY HOLIDAY LINK UPS, A PRETTY DIY ORNAMENT WREATH (link to ornament wreath giveaway too) AND TO SHARE YOUR HOLIDAY DIY!

DIY Project Parade ~ Dinner Party Details and Silhouette Cameo Review

Posted on November 20, 2011 by Roeshel

It’s party time! My baby girl’s birthday is tomorrow.

I don’t know how this little girl…

became this young lady so fast…

{Happy Birthday, honey…love you!}

All I did was blink.

Can I get a
(x) A hug
(x) A tissue

My family gets together for birthdays and she’s requested that I cook. If you know me, you know that Mr. DIY is the chef around here (but I do know how to cook, I just resign because he enjoys it so much – who am I to argue?) and since she’s moved out, home cooked meals are few and far between. At her pleading, I’m making a salsa chicken soup. I tweak this recipe a little. I set the table with fresh bread, shredded cheese, avocado strips, sour cream and Goldfish crackers. And since we’re not hosting Thanksgiving dinner (a tradition my brother and his wife generously invite us to)…and because it’s her birthday, I’m in the mood to add a little festivity to the dinner table. (A special thanks to Butch and my Mr. DIY for fixing the dishwasher…otherwise plan B was pizza and paper plates!)

I saw these on Pinterest…

Aren’t they cute? Chocolate and peanut butter yummies!

Perfect! I’ll be making them later today.

I am lucky enough to review the new Cameo for Silhouette America who will be running an awesome discount on Black Friday (through November 28th) for DIY Show Off readers and the Silhouette online store will already be having a huge discount during those days so you’re going to want to stop back on Black Friday and add the Silhouette Cameo to your holiday wish list!

The Silhouette CAMEO™ is an electronic cutting tool for personal use. Like a home printer, it plugs into your PC or Mac®
with a simple USB cable. However, instead of printing it uses a small blade to cut paper, cardstock, vinyl, fabric and more.

Use Code SHOWOFF at Silhouette America.

Silhouette CAMEO™

$299.99

Now, I need boxes to hold the acorn treats and place cards. This is where the Cameo saves the day. No need to get dressed to run to the party store. Using some scrapbook paper I have on hand and purchasing three shapes from the Silhouette online store, I used the Cameo to cut out two deer for place cards and a fun favor box.

The Cameo cuts up to 12 inches wide.

There’s only one blade (instead of Silhouette’s 3) but it’s adjustable.

It’s quieter and cuts nice and quick. Ever try cutting in bulk using scissors? Not fun. Cramped hands and not perfect results either. You’re going to want to add the Cameo to your holiday wish list.

I chose a pretty box pattern for holding yummy acorn treats…

And these cute little deer for place cards…

Colorful and pretty. Perfect for a birthday dinner party?

Now…time to go clean for company and run to the grocery store for ingredients. You know I love to host a fun party! Right? You’re invited to this one:

Let’s see what you’ve been up to lately! Do you have an amazing decorating, home improvement or room transformation to share? Consider doing a guest post instead of linking (send an email to thediyshowoff@gmail.com).

1. You must use the button above (ADD BUTTON HTML CODE FROM SIDE BAR TO YOUR POST) and link to this post to share the linky love.

2.Include your name or blog name and project title. Add your permalink (not your blog url, but your DIY project post url). Feel free to link a Past Post, just invite your readers in a current post with a quick note.

3.Or email your link to thediyshowoff@gmail.com and I will add it for you.

4.If you notice your link has disappeared -please add the link back to The DIY Show Off to your post today, a button or a quick note to your readers about the party and try again! I love when everyone participates and readers check out everyone’s links, but I think the return favor of linking back is the nice thing to do so everyone plays fair and enjoys all of the projects and links. Also – this blog party is for DIY projects only. Links not related to DIY will be deleted. Please share your link one week only.

5. If reading this in an email, pop over to http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com to see the inspiring DIY projects linked up!

6. If you have a Fall or Holiday link to share, feel free to link up to those parties going on too! See side bar for the button and link.

7. NOW you can “like” the links! What a fun idea! Most liked links may be included in a post of DIY Project Parade highlights later in the week.

8. Visit a few other links to make some new friends,
get some creative ideas and feel free to leave me a comment. I’m likely sitting here on the computer and could use a happy distraction!

*The Cameo was provided by Silhouette America to share tutorials, projects and promotions with DIY Show Off readers. Projects, tutorials, some supplies and opinions are my own. As a Silhouette America affiliate, using the code SHOWOFF will earn me a small commission ~ thank you!

I’m sharing a quick and easy burlap art over at the DIY Club today using stretched burlap from Canvas Corp and a Sharpie. Check it out!

Pin It

Quick "Head's Up" about Silhouette!

Posted on July 27, 2011 by Roeshel

Pardon the interruption: Silhouette just officially launched the Silhouette CAMEO! It a brand new 12 inch cutting tool. More details coming soon. But with the CAMEO on its way the Silhouette SD has been discontinued. Supplies are EXTREMELY limited but right now you can get the SD for $175 (while supplies last).

UNDERSTAND: Once they are gone they are gone! Anytime between today and Sunday (July 31) you can use the discount code “SHOWOFF” to get your Silhouette SD for $175!!!

What is the Silhouette?

The Silhouette is a digital cutting tool for personal use. It connects to your computer just like a printer, but instead of printing designs it cuts them with a small blade. With the machine connected to your computer, you’ll get access to all of the fonts on your PC plus the thousands of cuttable designs found on the Silhouette Online Store.

SILHOUETTE CODE: SHOWOFF

Also get a 20% discount on all Silhouette products using the discount code “show off”, including the new Silhouette Starter Kits! (Excluding download cards and machines).

Remember, these are the last of the Silhouette SDs! Click HERE to see my Silhouette SD projects for some fun creative ideas.

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Now back to today’s DIY feature: The Wright House.

Silhouette June Promo

Posted on June 21, 2011 by Roeshel

My niece and nephew are in town and we have plans to create some fun temporary tattoos. We’ve attempted it once and tried to create a tutorial to share (DIY runs in the family!) but that will have to come at a later date. I love putting together Silhouette tutorials – the extra tips are always helpful. But we’re having a little technical difficulty with our computer.

In the meantime, it’s time for the June Silhouette Special:

Using the code “Show Off”:

1 Silhouette SD

2 Packages Temporary Tattoo Paper

for $199 (U.S. only) (120 dollars in savings!)

Also, (wait for it…) 25% off all other products in the Silhouette shop (excluding gift cards and download codes)! The promo will run June 21-29.

Project Helper Giveaway + Silhouette May Promo

Posted on May 19, 2011 by Roeshel

It’s time for the Silhouette May Promotion! For May Silhouettte has a great Heat Transfer Bundle offered at a fantastic discount using the discount code “SHOWOFF” at Silhouette America. For $219 you’ll receive:

1 Silhouette SD

1 package white flocked heat transfer material

1 package teal smooth heat transfer material

1 package dark pink smooth heat transfer

All for $219!

My project was inspired by Maggie at Midwestern Sewing Girl. (See her cute bike pillow.) She reminded me that I had a bike image from my nephew’s chalkboard project and I was inspired to use the image again.

Cut the image according to package instruction settings. (Mirror/flip image – especially when doing lettering and words.)

Peel away the ‘negative’ heat transfer from the clear backing.

Place image (clear side up) onto fabric.

Cover with a piece of fabric and iron (cotton setting). Press hard.

Peel away clear plastic side. (If heat transfer stick to clear plastic, replace and iron again.)

Cut fabric to fit project. This a gift so I’m not sure if it’ll go on a pillow or canvas or go in a frame or if we’ll add a word or something but it’s so simple to do!

The Silhouette Heat Transfer bundle is $219 with the discount code SHOWOFF at Silhouette America! If you already have a Silhouette – you can use the above code to get 25% off heat transfer!

Promo ends 5/24/11.

~*~*~*~

DIY Show Off Project Helper Giveaway (featuring Silhouette)

If you don’t have a Silhouette, I’d love to help you start your next small DIY project using the supplies I have in stock! I might even enclose a personalized gift as well! You’ll have to work just a little for it.

Search the Silhouette label (HERE).
Find the picture with the question (you’ll know it when you see it!). Hint: Look for Lalka.
Email your answer to thediyshowoff@gmail.com as your entry (type “MAY” in the title of your email).
Include a link to your blog if you have one. &nb
sp;

Giveaway ends Saturday 5/21 at midnight EST. Winner will be chosen by me from qualified entries and announced shortly after!

*Silhouette Machine was provided by Silhouette America to share tutorials and promotions with DIY Show Off readers. Projects, tutorials, some supplies and opinions are my own. The DIY Show Off Project Helper Giveaway is sponsored by me. :)

Silhouette Rhinestone Tutorial

Posted on April 21, 2011 by Roeshel

We interrupt this tutorial for the clue
to May’s Project Helper Contest:

back to the regularly scheduled tutorial….

I found plain cotton tea towels at KMart the other day and decided to add a little bling with the Silhouette Rhinestone Kit. If you don’t have a Silhouette, please bear with me. There aren’t too many tutorials out there. By writing up a tutorial, I hope to help someone. Here is how I did it. The Silhouette Rhinestone kit comes with everything you need!

1. I purchased a “key” image from the Silhouette Online Store.

2. It has a warning to NOT RESIZE and to remove the text. I didn’t resize and instead of removing the text, I moved it on the page so it will print near the edge (saves on special paper) and made sure the text was off the page. Hit the ‘send to Silhouette’ button.

3. I used setting 3 for speed and 33 for thickness.

4. Feed a piece of the rhinestone template paper (blue side up) into the Silhouette. Use the pink tip and send to cut.

5. I cut my shape out to a smaller size (aga
in, saving a portion of the paper for another project).

6. Quickly peel away blue side from the backing.

7. Peel off the circles that didn’t come off.

8. Apply to the backing board.

9. I used the 10ss size (according to the size of holes in my template). Pour onto the backing board.

10. Using the replacement brush, gently move rhinestones over the template, filling as many holes as you can.

11. The Pick-Me-Up tool has two pieces. One that picks up and one to use for pushing rhinestones into place. Using both, fill remaining holes in the template and take away rhinestones not needed.

12. Cut a piece of transfer paper to fit the template.

13. Remove backing and place clear sticky side down over rhinestone design. Smooth over with fingers.

14. Pull back. Rhinestone design pattern will be on sticky side of transfer paper.

15. Place onto fabric. (I was able to remove and re-stick when I made a mistake before ironing.)

16. Put a piece of thin material over the design and iron.

17. Pull away transfer paper (if rhinestones come up, place back down and iron again).

18. Flip. Put material over back side and iron (this helps set the glue).

All done in less than an hour!

Just in time for Mother’s Day!

SPRING SPECIAL!

You can purchase:

A Silhouette SD

The Rhinestone starter kit

3 additional packs of rhinestones

And 1 Pick Me Up tool

ALL FOR $229!

Shop at Silhouette America, click the bundle icon and use discount code “show off”

This Rhinestone Bundle includes:

The Silhouette SD

2 sheets of rhinestone template material

>2 sheets of rhinestone transfer tape

2 rhinestone backing boards

1 rhinestone placement brush

1 CD of rhinestone images

1 pack of clear 10ss rhinestones

1 pack of clear 16ss rhinestones

1 pack of clear 20ss rhinestones

1 pack of pink 10ss rhinestones

and

1 Pick-Me-Up tool

This is an incredible deal worth $125 in savings!

Also, if you already have a Silhouette, all rhinestone products will be 30% off.

This promotion will run from April 21st-April 26th. You are eligible for this promotion by using the unique promo code: SHOWOFF.

The giveaway below is closed.

If you’ve read this far, thanks! I have a little surprise for you!

I’m giving away the cotton ‘bling’ tea towel PLUS another little special surprise made by me!

1. Leave a comment about one of your favorite things about spring.

2. Comment that you’ve used the “show off” code for your Silhouette purchase for one more chance.

Comments now through midnight on Friday 4/22 will be entered. Winner announced Sat. US delivery only.

tyle="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">Good luck!

*** Winners from last month who email me will get a chance to work with me for a “Silhouette-something” using the materials I have in stock for a project for their home.

Silhouette Heat Transfer Sewable Fabric Interfacing Tutorial and a Little Giveaway

Posted on March 21, 2011 by Roeshel

I knew once I had a Silhouette machine, there would be endless creative possibilities. Now the Silhouette machine cuts fabric! Using scrap material, I made my daughter a doxie (Niski!) pillow.

Here’s how I did it.

I hope to make my own pattern but until I figure out how to do that, I purchased a doxie shape from the Silhouette online store and sized it. I did cut out some other shapes including an ear and some flowers for appliques as well.

My doxie was approx. 6 x 9 inches long so using a piece of cardstock as a pattern, I cut a 6×9 piece of the heat transfer fabric interfacing.

Iron on to fabric (rough side of heat transfer interfacing paper to back side of fabric).

Cut out the 6×9 heat transfer paper fabric interfacing once it’s ironed (cooled) to the fabric.

I used my Silhouette cutting mat. This will work best if your cutting mat isn’t very sticky (not new). The heat transfer fabric interfacing paper backing sticks to the mat so I had to clean that off/peeling bits and pieces. The other option would be to make sure your fabric is at least 8 inches wide going through the feed (so it doesn’t move around). Stick the paper side to the mat, fabric side up. I always stick to the right side.

Feed mat into the machine. (I always insert mat and vinyl on the third line from the left as the machine cuts closest to the right margin on projects shorter than 12″ unless you make adjustments in the software).

Change to the pink cutting tip.

Send the image to the Silhouette for cutting. My settings were 3 for speed and 33 (the highest) for thickness.

Cut image.

Unload and remove ‘negative’ fabric.

Lift up fabric doxie – instant iron on applique! How cool!

Iron fabric into place on 1 side of the right side of pillow to be sewn (or whatever you’re creating).

Once it’s ironed on, it’s temporarily in place and ready to sew. Sew close to the edge of the fabric applique. For rounding corners, make sure needle is down through fabric, lift foot and turn as needed. Lower foot and resume sewing.

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The back side will look like this:

Add extra iron ons for texture and depth, a button for an eye.

I got caught up in my project and didn’t photograph the remaining steps but I made a pillow cover. Pin right sides together and sew three sides of the pillow cover. Snip corners of fabric up to the seam. Turn right-side-out. Insert pillow and hand or machine sew the opening shut.

Front Side:

Back Side:

So cute! I’m not crazy about the shape of the dog (it seems a little distorted to me), but for first time test…it’s cute and my daughter loves it.

~*~*~*~

Now onto my Silhouette giveaway! (This was so much fun last time I did it and I hope to share a picture of the previous winners’ projects soon…if they’re willing to ‘show off’.) No machine giveaway this time…sorry! But I love sharing my Silhouette with you by helping you with your DIY project in the meantime!

Comment below what you’d want to make with a Silhouette machine.

Vinyl Art?

Labels?

Vinyl Lettering for a DIY sign?

Iron On?

Fabric Applique?

Scrapbook supplies?

A special card?

Here are the projects I’ve made using my Silhouette if you need some ideas:

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/search/label/Silhouette

1 comment/entry per person.

I will choose a handful of readers, based on my materials and ease of your project.

I will be purchasing some more vinyl and images for the purpose of this giveaway.

Giveaway is open to US DIY Show Off readers/subscribers only.

Comment now through Wed. 3/23 at midnight EST.

Winners must respond to winner announcement at the end of the week.

Good luck!

~*~*~*~

March Promotion for DIY Show Off readers: Purchase a Silhouette SD, one of each fabric interfacing (clean cut & sewable) and a roll of white flocked heat transfer material for $229. Also, readers that already have a Silhouette can get 25% off fabric interfacing. The March promotion will run from the 21st through the 27th.

Use promo code “SHOWOFF”

at Silhouette America.

Reader Love

Posted on March 12, 2011 by Roeshel

When I announced the Silhouette winner last month, I offered to choose a few ideas that I could manage with my existing supplies and beginner skills. I think I mentioned I’d only choose 3 but I love you guys and couldn’t decide so I chose 11. Here are the projects I chose (first come first serve but a ‘runner up’ prize if you’re late):

Janae said…

My Bathroom!!! I have 3 glass jars and 4 small frames in my bathroom that need vinyl (“1″ “2″ “3″ for the jars & “B” “A” “T” “H” for the Frames). I hope I win!!!! :

Angie K. said…I LOVE your blog! What a sweet offer! If you pick me…I’m getting ready to paint my kitchen canister set. I would love a set of labels for them: Sugar, Flour, Tea and just a cute little bird for the 4th cannister since I stuff random things in it. CLAIMED!

~~Lauren F.~~ ~~said…So jealous of the winner! I would love vinyl cut out labels for the three canisters in my pantry– Flour, Sugar and Baking Mix. Pick me, Pick me!!! (pretty please with a cherry on top!)~~ CLAIMED!

~~Katie Bell said…~~Remember that one time you and I were painting our kitchens a similar color green…we’re like kindred spirits, except I won’t be having granite counter tops in the near future. BOO. Anyway, I have this little dormer window and I’m going to turn it into a reading nook, so I thought it would be oh.so.fun. to put the commanding words READ on the window….totally do-able, right? CLAIMED!

ashley said…Congrats to the winner! Thanks for doing the vinyl giveaway! My dream project would be for my breakfast area… The word “EAT” spelled out in frames, so I would need individual letters of E, A, and T for the little frames. Thanks again.

Christina said…oh man I wanted to win that so bad!!Oh well

I would love simple “Welcome” vinyl for a project I’m planning

~~Thank you…you’re so sweet to offer this chance!!~~ CLAIMED!

4468856724594" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3366cc; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">ro-grammie said…I want to label some water bottles for the table so

water

aqua

l’eau

vaduh

second choice would be a stencil of a squirrel to put on my grandbaby’s jammies!

heather

Holly Austin said…
When I saw that “Holly” had won, I had to do some serious squinting to make sure it wasn’t me. LOL!! I would love to have a “Welcome” vinyl for my back door

~~Michell@Girl in Air said…~~
~~I want to number my stairs…my son (18 months) and I count them as we walk up…the hubby would NOT be happy if I painted them since we just had our house built and paid extra for nice hardwood:-)~~ CLAIMED!

Heidi V said…I would love to have our address for our main door. We live on a corner lot and our address is on our official front door but that is not the door we use which ends up being very confusing for everyone!

Angel said…What a nice offer! My dream small project would be iron-on cut out of “middle sister” for my middle daughter. Lots of big sister and little sister shirts out there. Middle sisters….not so much. Thanks! I wish I had the money to splurge on the deal but I’ll have to hold off. Thanks for hosting the giveaway!Angel

Congratulations, ladies! Please email me at thediyshowoff@gmail.com (first come/first serve). We’ll discuss your project and see if it’s something I can accommodate! First responses have a better chance that I haven’t run out of vinyl/heat transfer/etc. IF THAT IS THE CASE (I run out), I’LL HAVE TO OFFER YOU A CARDSTOCK CUT OUT (available shape or monogram) as a “runner up” prize – something you can frame instead.

Pssst. Guess what?! Silhouette has generously offered another Silhouette SD giveaway at the DIY Show Off – starting March 21st!!! Also – using the code diyshowoff you can get a Silhouette SD, one of each fabric interfacing (clean cut & sewable) and a roll of white flocked heat transfer material for $229. Readers already owning a Silhouette can get 25% off fabric inter
facing. Check back March 21st!

**There’s another kind of giveaway coming up this week too. Unscramble the letters (2 words) for a hint: H A P P Y B L E A B S (you’ve probably seen this giveaway being hosted by a lot of blog friends).

ENJOY THE WEEKEND!

Silhouette SD Winner & a surprise!

Posted on February 28, 2011 by Roeshel

Wow! Thank you all so much for entering and a special thanks to those of you who shared the giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter. I know how it feels to want this machine so badly you can taste it, so badly you enter every single giveaway following all of the rules, to dream about the projects you’d be able to do every day. I want each of you to have one but Silhouette said “one”.

And so…

The winner of the Silhouette Giveaway is…#422

Sweeter Hours said… 422

Wow. This is very exciting! Thank you for offering such a great give away!
Well, I have been wanting make a growth chart for a while, also I have been wanting to make a pantry with labels. I make a lot of teeshirts by hand painting with freezer paper and this would make my life easier!

CONGRATULATIONS! Hurray to Holly! Hugs for everyone else!

Holly wins: A Silhouette SD, 1 roll of black vinyl, 1 roll of frosted vinyl, 1 roll of transfer paper, and a Home Décor CD of images (retail $375+).

If you haven’t won with all of the giveaways going on or if you’re looking for a deal and ready to buy one – Silhouette is offering DIY Show Off readers a special discount on that same Silhouette and premium vinyl bundle with a unique code “SHOWOFF” usable at silhouetteamerica.com. That promo code will get you the Silhouette bundle for $225 ($375+ retail) and/or 25% off premium vinyl if you’re looking to show off. SHOWOFF code is active through March 1st. $150 OFF!

~*~*~*~
Thank you!

A little surprise…

I can only give one Silhouette away but I appreciate ALL of the entries, my friends and readers. I can certainly make a few vinyl cut-outs to giveaway to a few of my friends! It’s not a Silhouette but it’s the best I can do. ss="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> :) Comment on this post what your Silhouette dream project is. I’ll choose 3 of the comments (projects I know I can handle using my limited supply). Comments from today only (2/28 until midnight EST and US residents only). I’ll choose the lucky 3 tomorrow. Thank you so much for your support!

I’ll choose a few winners as soon as I get a chance this week (keep commenting until Friday 3/4).

DIY Show Off ™ – DIY Decorating and Home Improvement Blog

Budget Friendly Do-It-Yourself Home Improvement and Decorating blog

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