Happy Halloween from me and my rock star!

Rebecca kissing "Prince," the Musical Artist

For Halloween I got to kiss Prince! My mom and I pieced together and sewed this handmade Prince costume from scratch for my boyfriend from a thrift store jacket and tuxedo shirt, some lace, Rit dye and lining material from JoAnn's, and a wig on clearance at Hot Topic for $2.50. He squeezed into my Limited pants for extra feminine Prince goodness and I did his makeup with what I had on hand. All in all the costume cost under $20. It won best costume at a local bar and scored him a hundred dollar bill. Unfortunately I didn't plan my own costume out far enough ahead and ended up going as a Ramones groupie. It was fitting though as we attended a live music event with Run DMC and Ramones tribute bands on Saturday. Happy Halloween everyone! What did you wear for Halloween?

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New Strongly Scented Handmade Shea Butter Soaps

Handmade soap lovers rejoice! Not only are my new Handmade Citrus Cilantro Loofah Luxury Shea Butter Soaps and Handmade Vanilla Bean & Clove Luxury Shea Butter Soaps now available for sale from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen, but I now have two new soaps curing that will be available for sale soon! Even better, all four of these new, handmade soaps are scented with extra fragrance for those of you who appreciate a super strong scent and lingering after shower fragrance.

Photographed above is my new handmade Peppermint Candy Shea Butter Soap that I just unmolded. This limited edition, decorative soap is scented with triple distilled Japanese peppermint essential oil so it doesn't smell medicinal, but more like peppermint candy, and is decorated with fun, orange soap balls. 

I also just unmolded my new Handmade Lavender Vanilla Shea Butter Soap. Also scented with extra fragrance for a strong scent, this handmade soap bar is made with a relaxing essential oil blend of lavender and vanilla. This handmade soap matches my Handmade Lavender Vanilla Goat Milk Lotion now available for sale. Be sure to look for my handmade Peppermint Candy and Lavender Vanilla Scented Shea Butter Soaps for sale at Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen in about three weeks.

Also, don't forget that between now and December 31, 2011, when you spend $35 or more at Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen, you'll receive 30% off your order when using coupon code: 2011HOLIDAY at checkout.

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Stocking Stuffer Extravaganza - Unique Ideas for Small Stocking Sized Gifts

With Christmas just around the corner - doesn't it always seem to sneak up on us? - I've been hunting down more great, handmade stocking stuffer ideas daily to share with you. Here are a few of my favorite picks from the past few days for everyone on your gift list.

1. Vegan Gluten Free Chocolate Truffles handmade by Super foxy Sweets

2. Birch Trees Necklace handmade by bstudio

3. Natural Rustic Original Wooden Pill Box Necklace handmade by Tanja Sova

4. Knitted Mustard Dog Sweater handmade by Mailo

5. Cream Wool Dotted Legwarmers handmade by Our Sunshine

6. Natural Perfume Oil Samples handmade by For Strange Women

7. White Birch Journal handmade by Three Trees Bindery

8. Brass Etched Leather Bracelet handmade by Steampunk Funk

For more handmade stocking stuffer ideas, read my other blog posts: Unique Handmade Stocking Stuffer Ideas and Handmade Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas. You can also check out my Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas Board on Pinterest for fresh new stocking stuffer ideas daily through the end of the holiday season. And don't forget to enter my stocking stuffer giveaway through the end of October 2011 for a chance to win three handmade, scented goat milk lotions from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen. Click here to go to the contest page and enter by simply commenting with your favorite idea for a stocking stuffer. You'll also be able to read all of the other stocking stuffer ideas submitted by contest entrants for even more insight on fresh and unique gifts you can stuff all of your holiday stockings with!

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Handmade Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas and a Stocking Stuffer Giveaway

Last week I shared a few of my favorite, unique handmade stocking stuffers ideas. This week I thought I'd share a few more handmade stocking stuffers I've come across and give you the chance to win a few as well!

1. If your guy is a little bit hipster and a whole lot of cool, he's sure to appreciate this Black Leather and Recycled Necktie Mini Gypsy Coin Purse handmade by Gypsy Tailor. (There are also versions for the ladies.)

2. For the beer lover who is just a tad geeky, stuff his or her stocking with a Periodic Table Beer Cozy handmade by Yellow Bug Boutique.

3. As a lovely addition to her wardrobe with a gift that's both stylish and "green," this Hand Embroidered Recycled Organic Cuff handmade by Madrigal Embroidery makes a great stocking stuffer!

4. For the teenager or just a die hard shutterbug, these Camera Pin Back Buttons handmade by Cut Copy Create make great accessories for a bag or jacket.

5. For the pottery or bird lover, a small stocking sized Plate with Hand Drawn Bird and Pattern handmade by A. Speer Ceramic Studio can be enjoyed just about anywhere from the bedroom as a trinket tray to the bathroom or kitchen as a soap dish.

6. In love with an earthy sort of guy? Let him show off your love for each other with these Personalized Carved Initials Wood Grain Cufflinks handmade by Block Party Press.

Looking for even more handmade stocking stuffer ideas? Be sure to visit my Christmas Stocking Stuffers Ideas Board on Pinterest. I'll be adding new stocking stuffer ideas up through the end of the holiday season for everyone on your list! I also have a board for Unique DIY Christmas Gift Ideas for presents you can make to go under the tree and lots of ideas for Pretty Packaging.

Ready to win a little something for your own stocking? Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen is giving away a set of three 2oz. stocking stuffer sized handmade goat milk lotions for the holiday season!

Handmade Goat Milk Lotions from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen

These rich and creamy goat milk lotions are thick like a cream, so a little goes a long way, and are handmade with a blend of blend of nourishing ingredients including goat's milk, shea butter, honey, aloe, sunflower and soybean oils. They are scented with the following fragrances: Red Velvet Cake, Lavender Vanilla, and Peppermint Cream.

The scented Red Velvet Cake Goat Milk Lotion smells like a freshly baked red velvet cake. The fragrance is a delicious combination of dark chocolate, strawberry syrup, red currant, cocoa powder, sugar cane and vanilla. The Lavender and Vanilla Goat Milk Lotion is a natural blend of lavender and vanilla essential oils and the limited edition Peppermint Cream Goat Milk Lotion is a blend of Vanilla Sugar, Pure Peppermint, Marshmallow Fluff, and Creme de Mint. All of these lotions can be purchase in 4oz. flip top bottles from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen for the perfect sized stocking stuffer that's sure to be used and enjoyed!

To win the trio of handmade goat milk lotions from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen pictured above, just leave a comment below telling me what YOUR best idea for a stocking stuffer is. Be sure to leave a way I can contact you if you win! For more from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen, be sure to like Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen on Facebook, follow Rebecca on Twitter and follow Rebecca on Pinterest!

This contest will end on October 31, 2011 at 11:59pm EST. Limit one entry per household. This contest is open to those residing in the USA ages 18+. The winner will be chosen at random from among all eligible entries using random.org. Your information will not be shared or sold. The retail value of this prize is $12.

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Handmade Journals - For the love of writing as a past time and how to make your own

In the fourth grade I was required to keep a daily journal. I used to write in it several times a day. Everything from poems to short stories to just random thoughts. In high school I kept a journal of poetry I wrote for a special boyfriend and also wrote poems for one girl in particular who enjoyed passing off my poems as her own to her beau. In college I took a poetry class and I had another journal for keeping track of thoughts, ideas and obviously, more poetry. I've also kept a dream journal that I loved sharing with others so they could help me decipher my dreams. 

During the 'zine movement in the 90s - that fabulous era of grunge, alternative and riot grrrl - I steadfastly cut and pasted and pen and inked over thirty issues of my own 'zine which I self published via the United States Postal Service and Kinko's copiers. Writing a 'zine also helped me discover the handmade movement for the first time as it was via mail order as a pre-cursor to the famous handmade marketplace online - Etsy. I bought my first hand knit ladybug hat with pipe cleaner antennae through a 'zine order form, a check and a stamp courtesy of Marissa Falco. 

While I have not written much on paper lately, it remains one of my favorite past times when life is rough or I'm filled with a little extra creative energy.  A computer lacks the intimacy, for me, of pen and paper. Perhaps it's because my childhood years pre-dated the invention of computers, and typewriters I considered only for my final drafts. Either way, I have a special fondness for handmade journals.

Let's Make A Journal from torta gialla blog

So, of course, I couldn't help but find inspiration from the handmade journal tutorial found on torta gialla blog. The aesthetics for creating a journal are endless - as demonstrated by the photo above of a journal created by Linda Tieu, owner of Torta Gialla on Etsy. Linda  creates an endless variety of handmade journals and sketchbooks using a basic bookbinding process. If you're a fan of writing, I encourage you to visit Linda's blog and check out her tutorial for creating journals for yourself.

I am also currently in love with the following collection of handmade journals from various etsy artists from around the world.

1. Blue Silver Baby Elephant Journal - Handmade Leather Notebook from  Baghy's Journals

2. Handmade Journal - Leather Bound Blank Book from Artreasury

3. Scottish Tartan Kilt Journal in Red, Black, and White Plaid from peaseblossom Studio

4. Overswirled Leather Journal from Kreativlink

5. Tree of Life Natural Handmade Journal from Leather Druid

6. Wood Log Engraving Handmade Leather Journal from Artreasury

7. Desdemona Journal - Leatherbound Shakespeare Blank Book from Immortal Longings

Do you keep a journal or have a favorite journal making artist?

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New Handmade Shea Butter Soaps - Highly Scented Luxury Shea Butter Soaps coming to Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen

I've just unmolded and cut two new handmade shea butter soaps - Citrus Cilantro Shea Butter Soap and Vanilla Bean & Clove Shea Butter Soap. Both of these handmade soaps are highly scented with extra fragrance for those who prefer a more strongly scented handmade soap. These moisture rich, scented handmade shea butter soaps are specifically formulated for those with normal to dry skin and contain both rich shea and cocoa butters as well as rice bran oil, olive oil, and palm kernel oil. 

My handmade Citrus Cilantro Scented Shea Butter Soap is a fresh, clean smelling blend of Lemon, Cilantro, Cut Grass, and Green Tea. It is colored a decorative yellow and green and contains bits of loofah for light exfoliation. My handmade Vanilla Bean & Clove Scented Shea Butter Soap - which will turn a solid dark brown once it cures - smells like crushed vanilla beans enhanced by clove & cinnamon on a dry down of musk. Look for these handmade soaps for sale in the next 3-4 weeks at Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen.

Also, don't forget to check out the handmade soap sale currently running at Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen. Most of my handmade shea butter soaps are now marked down between $2.50 and $4 each (regularly priced at $5 each) to make way for new stock. Select handmade goat milk lotions are also on sale. Plus, if you spend at least $35 between now and December 31, 2011, you'll save an additional 30% off your order from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen when you use coupon code: 2011HOLIDAY.

Want to learn how to make your own handmade soaps? Check out my handmade cold process soapmaking tutorial.

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Unique Handmade Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Christmas will be here before you know it. And while it's usually the big gifts we tend to give the most thought to, don't forget the little things for stuffing those stockings! There's no reason stocking stuffers need to be everyday and droll. Take a little time to browse and purchase something fun for the most unique stocking stuffers ever. Here are a few ideas for terrific, handmade stocking stuffers I've discovered.

1. The ECO BOXY Camera Keychains from Sweet Treats - Cute, quirky and handmade, this lovely little keychain fits easily into a Christmas stocking and is perfect for photography fans.

2. Zombie Legs in the Book Unusual Art Bookmark from my BOOKmark - Zombie fans and readers will go crazy for this unique stocking stuffer. This handmade bookmark resembles zombie legs that peek out from the reader's pages!

3. Set of 8 Crayon Rings from Oh My Lucky Star - By far some of the coolest crayons ever, these handmade crayons are shaped like rings that can be worn or colored with. Include a set in your child's stocking or gift some to your favorite hottie.

4. Caramel Nutmeg Lip Balm from Etiquette Bath and Body Products - This handmade lip balm is seasonally flavored with spicy nutmeg and warm creamy caramel and crafted with natural ingredients to keep chapped lips happy even during December's worst weather. Perfect for an adult or child's Christmas stocking.

5. Green and Red Dots Glass Stash Jar from Infinite Cosmos - A lovely handmade, hand blown glass jar perfect for decorating a small space or keeping tiny treasures or prescription pills. Perfect for glass and vessel collectors as well.

6. Le Fox Stud Earrings from le animale - Tell her just how foxy she is with a pair of handmade fox shaped earrings she'll wear anytime of the year!

If you have a friend or family member who is a fan of handmade bath and body products, consider the handmade shea butter soaps and handmade goat milk lotions from Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen for their stocking stuffers. Right now, Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen is having a HUGE SALE with most handmade soaps marked down from $5 to between $2.50 and $4 each. Select handmade goat milk lotions are also on sale. In addition, use coupon code: 2011HOLIDAY through December 31, 2011 and save an EXTRA 30% OFF sales prices when you spend just $35 or more. Shop Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen now.

And, for more unique stocking stuffer ideas, be sure to follow my Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas Board on Pinterest. What are some of your favorite unique ideas for stuffing those Christmas stockings?

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It's the Little Things - Tiny DIY Crafts that Make a Big Impact

Looking for a quick, tiny sized diy project for a weekend afternoon? Here are a few of my favorite "little" craft projects that don't require much time, effort, or money but say big things with their "wow factor." Plus, they're perfect not just for the grown ups, but for the entire family to join in on!

How to Make Clothing Buttons from Shrink Plastic

One of my favorite things to do as a child in the early 80s was color, cut, and bake Shrinky Dinks. So I am of course in love with this craft project for making handmade clothing buttons from Shrink Plastic. You'll find the tutorial for making your own buttons at Scissors.Paper.Wok. along with an instructional video and a free, downloadable button template. Choose your own designs - from everyday to seasonal - and make buttons for your shirts and fashion accessories. I imagine these would be extra fun sewn onto fingerless gloves for fall or a new, handmade purse.

Button Stamps How To from Martha Stewart

Button stamps. A simply genius idea that is simple to craft. Martha Stewart serves up a Button Stamp How To for crafting your own stamps made from unique raised buttons and recycled wine or craft corks. Use your stamps for creating your own greeting cards and wrapping papers this holiday season. Hunting down vintage buttons has never been so much fun!

If you already own stamps you've been dying to use, try out the Stamped Pillowcase Tutorial at Show Tell Share. Simply roll a light layer of acrylic paint onto your favorite stamp, then press into a creative design onto a new or old pillowcase. Set with heat then gift or enjoy in your own home.

Mustache Mug Tutorial from Tortoise and the Hare

Give new life to thrift store mugs by painting them with mustaches! Tortoise and the Hare offers a simple how to for crafting your very own mustache mug. Create a set with matching mustaches or go a little wild and give every mug a different 'stache. Craft one for each of your family members with just a mug, a Sharpie, and a porcelain paint pen.

For more craft ideas, visit my Jonesing for Crafts Board on Pinterest. What will you be crafting this weekend?

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DIY Steampunk Inspired Sweater Spats - Upcycle a Little Fresh Fall Fashion

With the buzz of fall in the air and Halloween just around the corner, I was psyched to find this simple diy project for crafting your own upcycled sweater spats!

Sweater Spats from Urban Threads

These wildly stylish steampunk inspired DIY spats are made by recycling that thrift store sweater - or any sweater hidden in the back of your closet that just doesn't fit properly any more. The embroidered skull design makes them a great pair for a Halloween costume, but you can substitute the skulls for any embroidery design or even a patch and wear these through the fall and winter seasons. You can find the full tutorial for this project over at Urban Threads.

Looking for more upcycled diy clothing? Then be sure to check out the tutorial for a long sleeve embellished t-shirt with multi-layered flowers from make it and love it. It's also perfect for the fall fashion season.

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DIY Handmade Favor Boxes for Your Seasonal Holiday Gifts and Treats

Favor boxes are loads of fun to make, give and receive! With so many holidays creeping up between now and the end the year, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite handmade diy favor boxes that can be crafted for any seasonal party. Just use the templates and alter your card stock paper colors and patterns to fit whatever seasonal theme you're throwing a party for! They're perfect for Halloween treats, Thanksgiving favors and even tiny Christmas gifts.

Fun Favor Boxes from Bijoux Bride

Print out the template for this fun Hershey kiss shaped box from Bijoux Bride along with the little flag to add a special message to your tiny gift. It doesn't have to say "thank you." It can be a seasonal wish like "happy holidays"  or simply contain your guest's name and double as a table place card.

Party Favors from Miss Fancy Pants

These simple favor boxes from Miss Fancy Pants are simple to make but don't quite look the part. Patterned papers and easy embellishments make each favor look individually done for it's recipient so there's no need for anyone to know they were done on a tiny assembly line on your kitchen table. Just use the template to make your boxes and re-size if needed for different sized gifts.

Free Printable Pillow Gift Boxes from Oh the lovely things

If you're short on funds or don't have extra scrap booking papers on hand for use with a template, then give these free printable pillow gift boxes from Oh the lovely things a try! Not only do they look great, but they're a snap to seal even if you've run out of tape at the last minute.

Now that you have your packaging, you'll want to fill it up! Steer away from just candies - unless you're giving away Halloween treats - and opt for something creative like tiny guest sized handmade soaps, handmade lip balms, handmade solid perfume tins or handmade lotion samples for the ladies. You can find out how to make a whole score of goodies at Soap Deli News. And, for more packaging ideas, please visit my Pretty Packaging Board on Pinterest.

What are some of your favorite ways to wrap gifts and package favors for the holidays and special events?

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