Learn how to be a crafty TV star! Free webinar!

(Scroll down to the end of this post for webinar info)

Back in 1998, I met Terri Ouellette from Good Morning Arizona, when she invited me to be on the show to talk about Dia de los Muertos. I was so nervous. I had never done live TV before. Before the segment she coached me through the process - "Don't pick stuff up and move it or the camera will lose the shot", and all kinds of great tips I never would have thought of. I made it through and she invited me back for more segments!

At that time, she was a regular on the show and EVERY DAY at 8:45 she had a new, live craft segment. Can you imagine having to come up with a new craft project every single day of the week - and demo step outs too? That's where she earned the title of "Craft Queen". She went on to become the national spokesperson for CHA, and always has all kinds of crafty irons in the fire, such as her latest venture: A Terri O Show, where she demos new craft products and techqniues.

Yesterday I was at her house taping a segment for my new line. After all these years, I thought I had the deal down. I asked if I should talk about how the line came to be, and inspiration and all that and she was like, "No."

"For an interview piece, that would be perfect, but this in this segment, Kathy, the product is the star. Our mission today is to show it off and sell it!"

It totally clicked. As an artist, I'm always thinking about the sob story that comes before the success. But when you only have a few minutes to show off the products, you have to learn to share the "features and benefits" of those products so the viewer can learn about them. This part of the game is 100% new to me, and I realized yesterday i still have a lot to learn.

Even to this day, I'm still learning from Terri. She knows her stuff when it comes to not only crafting, but even more about how to work the camera and make the most of your time in front of it.

On her new radio show (every Thursday at 1 pm on Craft Radio Network) TODAY at 1 p.m. PT she will be talking about:

- How to get a TV segment for your crafts/art (includes an interview with a TV producer).
- Breaking through the myths of live TV
- The do's and don'ts of live TV
- Pinpointing the purpose of the segment and driving that point home.
- What makes a good live segment
- She will be taking calls and answering questions: 1-877-474-3302.

Thank you, Terri, for all the great tips yesterday! I will be tuning in today for sure!

Terri O Radio: How to be a Craft Star on TV
Thursday, July 31, 1 p.m. (PT)
CraftRadioNetwork.com
Call in with questions! 1-877-474-3302

See the new line of Crafty Chica products at select Michaels stores!! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Sarah Hodsdon's Empowerment Guardian

There are some people out there who just don't get enough recognition. Sarah Hodsdon is one of them. Not only is she a brainiac at critical thinking, engineering, and design - but she can also craft like an Olympic champion on Wheaties. And she will clear everything off her desk just to help a friend. Girlfriend can throw down anyplace, anywhere!!

Just look what she did with one of the Crafty Chica Empowerment Guardians! She even wrote a little background story!

When I received my Empowerment Guardian in the mail, I was immediately inspired by the Crafty Chica Cruise I wish I could go on.... I had received a wonderful gift from Rachel Kaufman at Inside Out Scrapbooking and decided that I would use her feeling inspired monthly scrapbooking kit to decorate my wonderful winged,cruising the high seas, Queen of Creativity.

One of the coolest things about retreats is the organic way projects come together and how those around you manage to sneak their way into your creations and end up forever embodied in the memories of the event. The other unique thing about cruises and similar retreats, is the fact that you can't bring your studio with you and the supplies you receive there are usually the ones you have to work with. I think this is a fantastic exercise in the creative process.Creativity is about how we use what is on hand at the moment and getting out of the proverbial box with the hope that our muse gets inspired and sprouts wings. For this project, I used the materials Rachel sent and added two kinds of tape from my tape drawer, some random glass pieces, a paint brush and some acrylic paints, glitter and glue.

Thank you for doing this for me, Sarah!

Make sure to visit Sarah's sites!:
stampingtoday.com
Twitter
Facebook
Sarah's blog, Sarah*n*dipitous

If you make something inspired by Crafty Chica books, products, videos, crafty ideas - post pics in the new Crafty Chica Inspiration Gallery and it may just get featured here!

Here are some others:

Michele Parlee, of New Mexico, made this incredible tin ornament inspired by a project from The Crafty Chica Collection book.


Here is artist Karen Fayeth, also of New Mexico, with her paper mache sugar skulls, also from The Crafty Chica Collection book! Very cool!!!


"Our Lady of Comfort Food" Empowerment Guardian by Arizona artist, Denise Icard.

See the new line of Crafty Chica products at select Michaels stores!! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Terri O with a table of goodies!

Live on A Terri O Show!

More to come!

PROJECT: Seashell Sandals

School supplies may already be on sale, but here in Phoenix, it is still hardcore SUMMER. The only way to endure the sweat is to make cool stuff!

This a nifty pair of sandals that I embellished with mini-seashells a while back. All you need is a pair of sandals that have wide bands. Working with one section at a time, add a thick coat of Aleene's Fast Grab Tacky Glue and then arrange the seashells in a nice even pattern.

I think these are perfect for the beach, or by the pool!

See the new line of Crafty Chica products at select Michaels stores!! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

First Crafty Chica sale! NEW CONTEST!

First that I know of, that is...

Special thanks to Stace in Fresno who not only went to Michaels this week and let me know employees were stocking the display - but she went by AGAIN today to find it finished. She was kind enough to snap a picture and show what she bought. Thank you, Stace - I owe you a lunch next time I'm in the nickel-nickel-nine (Fresno).

OK, NEW CONTEST: The first 10 people to send me a picture of what they bought, or of the display in their city gets a prize. It will be a really cool something from the line, it's a secret! This contest will run from right now until Monday, August 4th, 11:59 p.m.

Post to the Crafty Chica Flickr group or just email me.

See the new line of Crafty Chica products at select Michaels stores!! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Erica, make up artist, ready to transform me!

We have our Sunset Magazine photo shoot today! Comes out in October!

From Stace in Fresno!

Hi Kathy!!

I am soooooooo excited...I was at Michaels a couple of days ago and saw that they were putting up the display for your line of products...you must be so excited!!!

See the new line of Crafty Chica products at select Michaels stores!! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Psst...This just in from a Michaels employee!!!

"We got the shipment with your new products last week at my Michaels...I wanted to buy it already!!! Can't wait to get it on the shelves!!! congrats X2"

Tee-hee! *Jumpingup and down* Thanks for the inside scoop!!! Two days and counting!!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Aw, yeah. New Crafty Chica Flickr group!

Woke this morning super early only to find - I really got a lot done yesterday! I can afford to take a little breather. Erica Konz, my friend who does my make up for big gigs, is coming over today at 10:30 to prime my face for a photo shoot. Sunset Magazine is doing a feature on Patrick and myself, and the photog is coming over this afternoon. If you live in Phx, and ever need a make up person - for pictures, weddings, parties, proms, etc - get in touch with Erica! She is awesome!

I want to send a big shout out of thanks to my friend Belen, who set up a really fun Crafty Chica Inspiration Gallery on Flickr. It's where people can post things they made inspired by the project ideas here, or things they made using the new Crafty Chica products. If you are on Flickr, check it out!!


(Canvas Earring Holder by Nix)


(Marble Mosaic Frame by Winter Valentine)


(Painted Frame by Krissi's Stitchery)


(Empowerment Guardian Angel by Yoli)


(Alisa and Corky in a CC workshop)

Thank again to Belen, you rock!!!!!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Prepping for my purse class

Not only am I prepping like crazy for the product line launch and the Heard Museum exhibit, I'm also getting ready for Art Unraveled. I can't believe how fast time comes around! I'm teaching a purse class and a PR class. Oh, and I'm doing a micro class too. I'm supposed to have a booth of items to sell next Saturday but I have nothing made!

Eh, it always works out, so I'm staying calm. Very calm.

Who am I kidding??

HELP!!!!

P.S. Don't forget Wednesday is the last day to enter my current contest!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

PROJECT: Pastry Pincushions (Empanadas!)

This may be my kitschiest project yet: Empanada pin cushions! After seeing so many fiber artists have their way with cupcake pincushions, I thought I'd throw a little needle love to Mexican puff pastries.

Empanadas are basically fruit turnovers. My Nana Cano used to make them every weekend - cherry, pumpkin, pineapple, lemon, apple and even mincemeat for my dad. Puff pastries are also popular in other countries as well, but my design is inspired by the ones I've grown up with here in Phoenix.

I actually made these last Saturday night at The Dirty Devil nightclub where Patrick's band was performing. Under the light of my iPhone, I stitched away. I used white felt, and then painted it to give it a realistic look. It worked. The next day, both my kids picked these up to take a bite and were mad because they were fake! I would call that a success!

NOTE: Yes, you can use a sewing machine on these, but because I knew I would be working in a dimly-lit area (the nightclub), I chose contrasting embroidery thread to hand sew.

Here's how to make them!



Supplies:

1 piece of white craft felt
stuffing, like batting
needle, embroidery thread
brown, yellow and white paint
Scissors

1. Take a piece of white craft felt. Fold it over from the short side, and cut out the shape of the empanada. Keep the fold at the bottom. Now cut the other end of the felt into a strip that is about 3" wide.

2. With the felt still folded in half, stitch the empanada about half away around the curve. Stuff with a lot of batting.

3. Take the strip, fold it lengthwise and stitch it with the embroidery thread along the edge of the curve, gather it here and there to make it ruffled.

4. Tuft the empanada in the center with three stitches. Cut the edge in a curvy design.

5. Add a bit of white and yellow to the brown paint until you get a nice baked look. Use the paint brush to stipple all over the empanada. Let dry.

6. Insert pins!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Make up moment

Yesterday, I did some damage at Sephora. I've never been the type to splurge or indulge in fancy make up products, even though I have spent hours in Sephora everywhere from London to France, New York to Houston, and of course here in my hometown.

I love to look at all the cool packaging. I hate to say it, but many times, it is the packaging that makes me choose one item over another when I can't decide between the two. When it came to designing the look for the Crafty Chica line, I asked the designers at Duncan if they could give it the spirit of makeup boxes, to give each product a more lusty "must have" vibe. They did!!

Back to shopping at Sephora: It's always the same deal. I fill my little basket with all kinds of magical things like face spackle, glittered eyeliner or gourmet waterproof mascara. But as I near the check out counter, my brain starts giving me a massive guilt trip. i think it is my Nana Cano lecturing me from Heaven.

"Do you really need all this stuff right at this moment? How will it make you a better person or improve your life? You could buy groceries for the family or pay off the dentist bill. Or take the kids out for ice cream and the movies! Now is not the time to spend $12 on making your lips shiny."

My inner voice was right. I just could not afford gourmet make up items then, and every time I would use those items, I'd probably apply them with a layer of guilt. That's not good energy to add to my day, right? When you are supporting yourself and your family with a creative career, there are sacrifices. Urban Decay is one of them.

So I would sadly, and ever so gracefully, sigh put everything back. Well, except for maybe one item. A chica's gotta have some fun, right??? But... instead of feeling dejected when I put the items back on the shelves, I would give myself a little affirmation pep talk:

"Girl, you'll be able to get these soon! Save the experience for one day when you can just walk in here, plop stuff in your basket and buy it because you KNOW the time is right. It will feel so good!!"

By saying that, it gave me something to look forward to.

Well, folks. Yesterday was THE day. I didn't plan it. I didn't even think twice. My sister wanted to to go to Arrowhead Mall to see the new Apple store (yum), and Sephora was right next to it. I walked right in and picked up some Christian Dior mascara, as well as a few other treats, including this juicy lipstick from Kat Von D.


I bought Maya, my 15-year-old, little make up kit, as then DeAngelo and Patrick some manly-man items too. I got home, gave out the gifts, and headed to the makeup area in my bedroom to display my coveted purchases and admire them before I broke open the seals. It was almost going to be a rite of passage or a mini-ritual of self empowerment. Maya walks up and gasps. "Wow, mom! Show me what you bought!"

I imitated the Sephora salesclerk and gave her the full meal deal sales pitch on each item. Maya giggled. I walked away to grab a drink of water and what do I hear?

The bathroom door shut. And then lock. I frantically ran to the counter to find the makeup gone.

MAYA HAD LOCKED HERSELF IN THE BATHROOM WITH MY NEW MAKEUP!!!!!!!!!

Oh no she didn't...!!!!! Ugh. Teenagers!!!

Um, I don't think I've heard myself growl before, but I sure did right then. I pounded on the door like a house raider on COPS.

"Open the door! Don't you dare break the seals on my new make up! I get to open them! You have no idea how long I've waited to buy that stuff!" I shouted.

Maya calmly opened the door and walked out. "I didn't open them. Gosh, mom, relax it is just makeup..."

At the end of the day, it is just makeup, but it is MY makeup and it's the bombdizzle!

Now that we are all calmed down...

Speaking of packaging, if you noticed on my CC logo, it has the Virgin of Guadalupe-inspired halo around it with the rays.



Well, there is a new beauty product that uses that theme too. It's really cute, look:

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Feature story in today's Arizona Republic

Wow. how surreal is this?? After spending so many years as an arts and entertainment reporter, writing about all kinds of creative people and their dreams coming true, who would have ever thought that someday I'd be the subject of a story!

That's what happened today! One of my former editors, Susan Felt, wrote this story and I am still blushing from giddiness. Susan always cheered me on while I worked under her and was a constant source of inspiration. I was just a file clerk at the time, but she was one of those editors who had a way of making you feel like a million dollars and that I could accomplish anything. She offered me so many opportunities, and then coached me on them. I will never forget that experience - and I hope to pay it forward.

Anyway, thank you to the Republic and to Susan for doing this. Where would I be without the Arizona Republic???

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

CRAFTY CHICA CONTEST: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

The folks at Warner Bros and Allied Advertising remembered that I am a big fan of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants books (and movie) and graciously donated a fun SOTTP 2 prize pack to be given away right here!

It includes a poster, a book, a tank top, lip gloss,and a small tote bag. And I'll throw in a new Crafty Chica rose stencil to trick out a pair of your jeans!

Just leave a comment between now and Wednesday, July 30th. I'll draw a winner on Thursday. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 opens nationwide on Wednesday, August 6th!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Seven days. My product line at Michaels!

Psssttt...Here are some top secret "inside photos" - sneakily snapped from within the Duncan crafty compound. My friend hid inside a box to take these pics (right Lauren?). Here is the crew sorting and packing hundreds of product packages for shipment all across the land!!!

The Crafty Chica product line hits store shelves next week, August 1st, 2008 - one week from today! Here's the list of Michaels store locations.

This line won the Innovations Best in Show Award for General Crafts last week at CHA, so I feel confident we are on the right track.

*Deep breath*.

I've recieved many questions from people about all of this, and for anyone new, this did not fall in my lap out of the sky. There is a long HERstory behind it, which I wrote about in my post called "Squeezing a Dollar Out of a Dime."

Basically, I had been making contemporary Latin-themed art for a living with my husband since 1990. I started at The Arizona Republic in 95, as a tear sheet clerk, shredding papers in the basement. I worked my way into the Features newsroom, finished my BA at night school and was offered a craft column in 2000. I started Crafty Chica on my own time to share my idea-driven crafty ideas with the masses. I tried very hard to come up with innovative ideas. I love bright colors, lots of glitter and high gloss varnish.

The column got picked up for syndication by Gannett Service and it still runs weekly in at least 50 papers across the country. In addition, the popularity of the site grew faster than I could keep up with. A book deal followed, as did national TV work and so forth. I worked on my site in the middle of the night to keep up with the demand. My site now receives close to 50,000 unique visitors a month and has been featured on everywehre fromm NPR's Weekend Edition to the Wall Street Journal to the Los Angeles Times.

This site is my way of volunteering on a global level - I love to inspire others to get crafty! I recieve emails daily from crafty chicas from Japan, China, India, Mexico, Brazil and of course, most from America! I do my best to write them all back. Many are trying to start their own crafty brand, and I offer them adivce, others just write to tell me they never crafted before they visited my site. Some write to share memories of craftiness in their family.

Most of my projects are what I call "gateway crafts" - easy projects to lure in new people to give it try! My goal is to present easy, affordable ideas that you can look at and say, "I want to make that today!" Once you use zig zag scissors, it is hard to stop!

Last year, the folks at Duncan Enterprises let me know they had been following what I was doing. They told me I built a fabulous brand (I had no idea I was building a "brand") and asked if I thought I could transfer the spirit of my site into a tangible product line for consumers. They offfered me a dream job to make a go of it. I've spent the last year working with my husband (one of the illustrators of the line), along with the team at Duncan to make a fun mix-and-match selection that celebrates all things fun and shiny!

We presented the line to craft stores, chains and indies, and Michaels is the first to step up on the Crafty Chica band wagon! The line will debut in 141 stores and will be on sale from August-October.

If it sells good (it will!!!), well...even bigger and better news will follow!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Who knew they had "expert" lines now?

I got in this line for airport security, and the whole time the TSA
agents hollered: "Come on experts! Prove yourselves! Get those laptops
out NOW! Shoes off NOW!"

It was like a football drill!

My good luck Harpo pen!

PROJECT: Tin-trimmed card

Tin art has been around for ages. Everything from recycled cans to foil has been used in some craft form at one time.

But these days, the term is "metal arts," and it's going high-tech, especially when it comes to paper crafts. Grommets and silver charms are cute, but for an industrial edge, artists are incorporating the thin shiny stuff wherever they can. Companies such as 10 Second Studios and Merc Art USA are producing mats, grooved templates, rollers and other specialized tin-art tools.

I use tin on everything from tin sheets in scrapbook pages to silver tape in my altered books and collages. You can do it, too. Here is a sample of a card I made that shows an easy way to get into the tin of things.

Tin-trimmed Card

SUPPLIES
1 blank card
1 piece of patterned scrapbook paper
1 piece of lightweight embossing tin (or center of a disposable aluminum cooking sheet)
Tin embossing tools
1 initial sticker
Ink stains or watercolors
1 piece of thin foam core
Brush
Glue stick
Double-sided tape
1 roll of silver tape
Heavy-duty scissors

DIRECTIONS: Paint the edges of the card with the ink stain or watercolor, let dry. Rip a rectangle from the scrapbook paper so it fits in the center of the card. Add a contrasting color of ink stain or watercolor to the torn edges of the scrapbook paper. Use the glue stick to affix it to the center of the card. Cut a piece of tin into a circle, either freehand or with a template. Use the embossing tools to add texture to the tin by placing the tin on a soft surface, such as a magazine or mouse pad, and rubbing the tool on the tin to make indentations. Use your hands or a brayer to flatten it.

Cut a piece of foam core into a small circle and add a piece of double stick tape to both sides. Peel off the backing and stick it to the back of the tin circle. Peel off the other side and affix it to the center of the card. Cut thin strips of the silver tape and use them to add a border around the envelope.

TIPS: If you don't have specific tools for embossing, be creative and look around your house for objects with grooves that you can use instead: wire brush, a fork, paper clips, meat tenderizer, etc. Use an old ballpoint pen to draw lines. Wipe off any ink with tissue. Use an old or cheap pair of scissors for cutting the tin, because they will become dull after use.

VARIATIONS: Add tin accents to frame scrapbook pages. Cut out small shapes, like flowers or hearts, emboss them, punch a hole in the center and add a colored grommet. Use the same process to cover a box or picture frame.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

About the UNITY Convention...

I Twittered today from the Unity journalism convention and lots of people asked me, "What is this and how can I go?"

Unity is a conference that happens every four years. It is all about helping the media increase diversity coverage by increasing the number of journalists of color in the newsroom. The ratio is way off. This convention helps match people with jobs. It's awesome because all the major media companies have booths where editors sit and conduct interviews with attendees.

As a member of NAHJ, I've always gone to these conventions to take workshops to become a better reporter, to promote my craft column in The Arizona Republic, and for the author's carousel for my books. This time I'm here in Chicago for one day to pass out press kits about the new product line.

Remember, I started Crafty Chica as an offshoot of my newspaper craft column! I wanted to reach people who did not subscribe to the paper. I love to share my goofy story to inspire other reporters and columnists to see how far and wide their work can go. No matter how much glitter I sprinkle, I will always consider myself a reporter and journalist. I worked very hard at that job and am very proud to have been on staff.

Anyway, today was very intimidating, but well worth every second.

Every booth has a line of people holding their resume and a stack of clips. They nervously wait their turn to sit down with an editor/producer and share their work. The editor then conducts a mini-interview/audition. Each person has anywhere from one to 10 minutes depending on how interested the editor is.

I came from a different angle, because I was pitching a story idea, rather than looking for a job. I had about 15 seconds to sell my angle before seeing if I could continue. Every one was really cool and once they realized exactly what I was saying (craft columnist scores liscensing deal!), and the possibilites, they either got excited about covering it, or they took my kit to pass along to a colleague.

I first visited all the booths of media in the cities where my products will be sold, and where I'll be doing appearances. I finished and sat down. I sighed, glad it was overwith. I looked up and saw the Harpo Productions booth!! I walked over, excited to get an Oprah pen. I took one, looked up and saw badge that said "Senior Producer, The Oprah Winfrey Show."

I gulped.

How often in one's life do you get to stand face to face with a SENIOR PRODUCER from Oprah?? Not only that, she commented on how she liked my purse. "I made it!!," I said. I "felt" that opening, know what I mean? So I went for it.

With my heart pounding practically out of my chest, I delivered my 15-second spiel, smiled, held my breath and waited to see her reaction.

"You are so cute! I love your story!" she said. She gave me her name, introduced herself and handed over a card. She asked me to send her a press kit with all the details. She said to send it soon, while she still remembers me.

That's all I heard, I was on cloud nine!! It was only while I was walking away in what felt like slow-mo - that I realized she also told me about a Harpo party tonight. DUH! I totally missed that info because I was so elated.

That's why someday in my lifetime, or when my daughter gets a little older, I need someone to go with me and handle all that stuff. I could have been sipping champagne at an Oprah party tonight. Instead, I almost choked to death on my buffalo chicken salad in my hotel room. My throat and chest are still sore :-( tmi, sorry...

I also worked up the nerve to hit People Magazine too. I sat down , chatted with two staff writers, and dropped off my kit. No, I did not get their cards (kick me please!).

Many of you think I have my act all together, um, no. I get flustered when I get excited, like when I ask strangers if they make shoes. It's a flaw that I need to work on before it gets the better of me. There is nothing to prepare for, it is just about staying calm and having good listening skills.

Pretend you have 10-15 seconds to relay the ultimate story pitch on yourself/product/website, etc. What would it be? Think about what makes you, and what you do, amazing. Why should someone write about you? If it is easier, make a list. Try to nail it down a couple sentences.

Reporters and editors are looking for an intriguing hook. Something that has relevance and is different. And newsworthy and timely.

I also wanted to catch the interest of reporting attending the conference. I wore a purse I made. Every time someone commented on it, I handed them a card. If they asked for more info, I gave them a press kit.

Now what happens if you don't go to a conference? Easy, you write up a press release of your fabulous news, make a fun press kit and send it to editors. Read the paper or magazines and jot down the names of writers who report on topics like yours.

There's so much more to go into and I promise to share it another time!

I'm heading to bed, happy to go home be back with my family tomorrow!

I scored volunteers!

My daughter and her friend Ebony help stuff my press kits. Whew!

Stuffing press kits for Unity Journalism Convention

Heading back to Chicago tonight!

On the set on Good Morning Arizona

Here's Olivia Fierros before my segment.

Redbook Magazine! Blogging!

The new issue of Redbook is out and I'm excited to say I have an essay in it!

It's for a special package the editors put together called "How Blogging Changed My Life". I shared my story along with five other incredible women who are all following their passion and working to make the world a better place through their blogs!

Here's the link to check it out, it is also in the magazine too!

I'm sharing this as a way to nudge those of you who have thought about starting a blog, but don't know where to start. I've been blogging since 2003, and I remember thinking "Who cares what I have to say, or what I do?"

Finally, I just sat down and starting blogging about everything from silly things happened in my life, all the crafty drama, and advice for other people who wanted to make a living off of glue guns and glitter.

If you've been thinking about starting a blog, or maybe you have one and can't think of what to write, here are some ideas to get you rolling!

1. What is your mission?
Do you want a blog to support your business? Maybe to document family stories? Vent about your day gig? Think of what you want to get out of your blog, what kind of people you want to attract and how you want them to feel after reading your posts. Once you know why you are blogging and who you want to reach, come up with some guidelines for your posts that support your mission.

2. Write what you know.
Think of things that you know inside and out because you do them in your daily life. Hello? You are an expert! Making jewelry, working with kids, writing, etc. Share your tips and advice on what you know best!

3. Think simple.
You don't have to write about saving the world, your thoughts on world peace, or spilling your guts. You don't have to write a gazillion paragraphs. Maybe it is just about taking pictures and letting the images speak for themselves.

4. Be creative.
Interview other people, have contests, write mini-reviews of your favorite TV shows or movies, embed videos, link to your friends' blogs.

5. Meet other people.
Take time to comment on your favorite blogs and those writers will likely come back and post comments on your blog!

6. Incorporate blogging in your routine.
Pick a time of the day when you can spend 30 minutes to write a blog post. i often do mine late at night when everyone is alseep. My friend Margot always seems to post early in the morning. another friend of mine blogs on her lunch hour at work. If you can find a regular time, it will be easier to stick to!

7. Start a multiple person blog.
If you feel like a blog is too much to take on, invite a friend or relative to co-author with you. That will ease some of the pressure because you can take turns. And it will be good for readers because they will see different perspectives.

Here are theme ideas to build a blog around:

- Chronicle a personal journey or new venture you are on.
- Things that make you smile throughout each day. Share why you like them.
- A fan blog for your favorite shows, artists, pets.
- ______ of the day. (Pick one item/theme and post a new link every day on it. Example: Pillow, earrings, fire hydrant, product packaging, etc)
- Pick a popular street that you drive on a lot and write about what you see on each day there.
- Reviews of places where you shop, eat or hang.
- Things you like to collect. Make your site the go-to place for something kitschy, like weird salt and pepper shakers.

You get the idea! Some people don't even need to think of a theme, they just sit down and go! My advice is not to let your fears get the best of you. And don't worry about if anyone will read your blog or be interested. Just do it because you love it! People will come.

One reason why I love blogging is because of my kids. I love that I can click on any previous year and read all kinds of stories about things they did. Time goes by so fast, and it is easy to forget day-to-day adventures. By blogging life as it happens, you are, in a sense, writing your autobiography! How cool is that?

What are you waiting for???

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Bollywood Blue

Hello, my crafty friends!

I'd like you to meet the new Crafty Chica "Bollywood Blue" glitter. For several years now, I've been a big fan of Bollywood flicks - the melodramatic stories, the crazy song and dance numbers, but most of all the amazing shade of brilliant teal that so often appears in the set design and clothing.

That specific shade is the inspiration behind this color. I mixed and mixed different shades until I achieved the right tone. The picture does not do it justice! It's so pretty, I want to cover my computer screen in it! I want to cake my eyelids with it and go grocery shopping!

Here is a new Bollywood-inspired music video by Devendra Banhart so you can see what I mean about the magical blending of blue and green to make what I call Bollywood Blue! BTW: Devendra is Natalie Portman's boyfriend, and she is the star of the video! It's like a three-hour Bollywood movie condensed into five minutes. It has happiness and heartache and really cute visual effects and of course - dancing!

Best of all - the song ROCKS!

Namasté!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

PROJECT: CD Garden Globe

One of the most lucrative aspects of crafting is the power to change the ordinary into the extraordinary. I jumped on this idea when I counted the number of free Internet-service-provider CDs that I recently received in the mail. Because I'm not one to throw things away, I whipped out my scissors and mosaic supplies and went to work on this glitzy garden globe.

I suggest purchasing an inexpensive pair of scissors for this project, because cutting through the discs will dull the blades. Ultimately, the small pieces arranged around the ball will reflect light beautifully.

GLITZY GARDEN GLOBES

SUPPLIES:

* 6 to 8 unwanted CDs

* Tile nippers or heavy-duty scissors

* 1 Styrofoam ball (8-inch round)

* 1 bottle of Aleene's Foamtastic adhesive

* Pedestal

* 1 carton of mosaic grout (1 pound)

* Acrylic paint in desired color (optional)

* Medium-size rubber spatula

* Damp sponge

* Dry cloth

DIRECTIONS: Cut the CDs into 1-inch pieces. Holding the ball in your lap, adhere the CD pieces one by one so that they are approximately 1/8 inch apart. Rest ball on the pedestal and let dry completely.

Mix half the carton of grout according to directions (if desired, add a few drops of the paint to add color). Working one side at a time, use the spatula to fill in the crevices with grout. Wipe the ball down with the damp sponge to remove the excess grout. Continue process until the entire ball is smooth and even. Let dry and then polish the CD pieces with the dry cloth.
TIP: Sometimes certain discs will crack when cut. These still will work; just set them aside and intersperse them among the smoother pieces.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Correction on my award!!!

Ok, so the dog carousel was cute, but I just learned that the
Innovations award is for the ENTIRE Crafty Chica product line, not
just the dog display behind the glass case!

I am such a dork! Anyway, I am still stoaked and could not sleep all
night because I was so happy!!!

Have a happy day everyone!!!!!

Our last day at CHA!

Me and Lindy!

This would not have happened without Lindy and Alyson and Valerie and
Larry and the other folks from Duncan!!!! Gracias!!!!

I won an award tonight!

I'll post details tonight. I'm still in SHOCK!

Update: Actually, this headline should read "WE" won an award! I worked with Lindy and Alyson, the Duncan trade show managers, on creating a centerpiece display for the "Innovations showcase" for the summer CHA show (where I'm at this week). These are shelves in a glass case where every company gets to put a sample of the best new products. Duncan chose my Crafty Chica goodies.

2nd update: Ok, so the dog carousel was cute (continue reading below), but I just learned that the Innovations award is for the ENTIRE Crafty Chica product line, not
just the dog display behind the glass case! I am such a dork!

I wanted to make something that reflected the happy/quirky sense of the product line, that would make people giggle, and show off all the magical glitter colors I worked so hard to mix.

To make the piece, I took cake platters, covered them in ruffled crepe paper, added circles of glittered Chihuahua statues, and then accented the whole thing with silk flowers. It looked like a Hawaiian Chichuahua wedding cake.

I said my blessings and shipped my creation, but when I arrived to Chicago to set up the Crafty Chica display, I learned my precious cargo had been smashed. Just when I was about to hyper-venhilate, Lindy came up with a brilliant idea.

I just happened to have also brought a large glittered Labrador-with-eyeglasses statue! Never leave home without one, right?? Well, Miss Lindy gave me the idea of redoing the centerpiece with the Lab in the center. Patrick helped me refluff the crepe paper and rearrage the flowers.

In the end , it looked like the Labrador was watching over all the Chihuahuas.

The piece won for Innovations Best in Show: General Crafts!! They announced it tonight at the CHA dinner/party.

Here is a lame snapshot, you can't really see the detail!

Mark Montano made these earrings at my craft table!

Making earrings!

Two happy chicas making earrings with Crafty Chica products!

This is what the Michaels display will look like!

I learned today that this display will be in Michaels stores on August 1!!

Two weeks away. Gulp!

Jennifer Perkins at Duncan booth

Final display

Yummy Chicago pizza :-)

Did some damage here - Mojo Spa

Can you believe I left my bag of goodies in my hotel room and I checked out? Luckily they are shipping it to me at home.

Mojo Spa is located at:

1468 N. Milwaukee Ave

Chicago, IL 60622

773.235.MOJO (6656)

info@mojospa.com

About Earwax Cafe

Many of you wrote me, slightly grossed out, about our choice for lunch today. We loved The Earwax Cafe, and despite its name, it was quite flavaful!!! I Googled it and found these videos so you can see for yourself! If you are ever in the Wicker Park area, check it out!

Click here to see videos

Written on the bathroom wall.

Lunch at the Earwax Cafe

At The Earwax Cafe

Me posing with squid boy.

Setting up the Crafty Chica display at CHA!

Upgraded - we made a handle for it.

Chicago taxi air conditioning

Crafting with Chicago kids!

Chi-town! Craft Corps!

I'm here in Chicago getting ready for CHA. Patrick is here too - while the kids, our friends, my sister, and my mom-in-law hold down the fort at home. It takes a village!

Tomorrow we will be working with some kids from the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago and showing them how to get crafty, although I know they already have it in them! After that we might get to visit Patrick's cousin, Mark, and then it is all about the show. I finished my apron, my dichos came in (more on that later), and now all I have to do is look forward to stalking Mark Montano at the convention :-) I'm a big fan and want to shake the hand that makes all those genius crafty projects!

Tonight we chilled in the room, flipped the channels on the set and came across The Big Idea on CNBC. Someone needs to smack me on the back of the head right now for not watching this show sooner.

Ouch! I felt that whack, thanks...

Tonight the topic was "The New Art of Selling". Bookmark this page and check it out! I learned so many new things, and it was the perfect primer for attending CHA. This is my new favorite show and I even called DeAngelo at home to record every episode for me while I'm away.

I better go to bed, it is after midnight here, which is only after 10 p.m. Phoenix time, but I have to wake up at 6 am Chicago time, which is 4 am Phoenix time. I'm confused.

Have a super day!!!

Kathy :-)

P.S. Not sure how much spare time I'll have but does anyone know of cool indie shopping spots in Chicago?

P.S.S. Vickie Howell is interested in hearing from YOU!

<

Calling all crafters!

I’m gearing up to write my next book, Craft
Corps (pronounced Craft Core) which will focus on the community perpetuated
by craft and the designers & hobbyists who feed it.

As part of the content, I’m hoping to include 50-60 short profiles of crafters of all types. If you knit, crochet, embroider, decoupage, paint, sew, bead, tat, work with ceramics, collage, etc.---I want to hear from you! Whether you’ve found success selling your handmade sock monkeys on Etsy or you crochet chemo caps for charity, I want to know who you are, what you craft and why you do it. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE PROFESSIONAL CRAFTERS (in fact, it's preferable as the book's other content will focus on that)!

I’ve been fortunate enough over the years to receive e-mails from people all over the world, sharing their favorite memory of crafting, what crafting has done for them or what got them started and how they’ll never stop.
These stories--from hilarious craft mishaps to touching crafty life stories--
have inspired me to collect more to share with the public, handmade community.
If you’re interested in possibly being a part of Craft Corps, please fill
out the following questionnaire, cut and paste it into the body of an e-mail,
and send it to: craftcorps@gmail.com
as soon as possible (but no later than AUGUST 15th.) If we’re able to use
your profile, an editor will contact you directly with more info.

Thank you so
much for participating!

xo, Vickie

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS!!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

PROJECT: Faux Tattoo Sunglasses

By Kathy Cano-Murillo

Special for the Republic

I love Ed Hardy sunglasses. But I can’t afford Ed Hardy sunglasses. I’m not one to give up so easy. With a little tinkering in my art studio, I came up with a more affordable recipe. Hello temporary tattoos! These tatts are just like little decals that can easily be applied to any surface. You can find them at gift boutiques, party supply stores, and even the craft store. The best aspect is you can pick up a few different sets of sunglasses and decorate them all different.

Here’s a tip: I found that a white base works best. If you are using black glasses, paint a layer of white and then apply the temporary tattoo and you are good to go. Not into sunglasses? You can use this technique to add personality to your portable music player, cell phone, business card holder, or any other hard surface.

Faux Tattoo Sunglasses

Supplies:

1 set of sunglasses with wide sides

Temporary tattoos (smaller the better)

Wet paper towel

Micro glitter and mini crystals

Clear adhesive

Toothpick

Clear nail polish

Directions: Set the temporary tattoo on the surface. Apply the wet paper towel over the tattoo and leave until the backing paper is soaked. Carefully peel away the backing. Tattoo will be set in place. Let dry. Apply a coat of clear nail polish over the tattoo, let dry. Use a toothpick and glue to add loose micro glitter and mini-crystals.

Variation: Use a fine brush and enamel paint to hand paint your own design, or cut small images and decoupage them on. You can also use water slide decal paper such as Lazer Tran, printed with your own designs.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Emily's Bingo Saint

Emily's Bingo Saint
Originally uploaded by craftychica

The members of The Phoenix Fridas each decorated one of the Crafty Chica Empowerment Guardians and we held a silent auction. The funds raised went to the Cultural Coalition, local non-profit group. This saint is Emily Costello's. Isn't it great?

Frida tiara crafters

Frida tiara crafters
Originally uploaded by craftychica

Frida fans come in all ages!

Flower tiara workshop

Flower tiara workshop
Originally uploaded by craftychica

These are ladies from my flowered tiara workshop from Saturday's event.

Close up

Close up
Originally uploaded by craftychica

Here is a close up of Emily's amazing painting job!

Frida photo stand

Frida photo board
Originally uploaded by craftychica

Last Saturday, my craft group, The Phoenix Fridas, had a celebration for Frida's 101th birthday! It was at Changing Hands bookstore and scores of people showed up! We had presentations, a slideshow, a food demo, I showed how to make flowered tiaras, and two of our members - Emily and Anita - made this fun Frida photo stand!

Back to my old self!

Much better than yesterday!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Mexican tote wall art

Tonight I'm getting the house ready for the camera crew tomorrow. I won the Profiles of Success Award for Excellence in Arts and Literature. Channel 12 is coming out to film a vignette on me that they will play on the Jumbotron at the luncheon in front of, oh, like 1300 people. I'm slightly freaking out. I hope I don't look too goofy...

They are going to film me crafting as well as writing. I rearranged my office area and made this piece.

It is a large embroidery hoop that I bought at a yard sale. I cut up a Mexican tote and stretched it over the smaller hoop. I planned to embroider it, but I kinda like it just like this. Maya made me cover up the mermaid's chi-chi's! I printed out the saying "she who swims will never drown", so it will serve as more than just something cute to look at, it has a good message as well!

OK, I'm off to bed. I have to wake up early to clean the kitchen, set up the living room, shower, do my hair - and be ready by 8 (gulp.) a.m. I haven't even picked out my outfit yet!

Apron in progress

This is my new apron for this week's CHA show!

Remember the apron I made for the last show in February? Well, there was good news and "OK, um, I can do that!" news - the good, or rather GREAT news is that the fabulous Jenny Doh of Somerset Studio magazine came by the Duncan booth, saw my apron, and asked if I would send it in to be part of the new apron•ology issue! I just about took it off my body that second and handed it over, I was that excited.

now, the "OK, um, I can do that!" news is that my apron is at the magazine's headquarters right now. I need one for the show - so I had to make a new one. I've been so busy with the product line release and the Heard Museum exhibit that I made a time management decision and bought a white apron and planned to embellish it.

But...I couldn't bring myself to make that shortcut! Even though making art and crafts is my full-time job, as soon as it becomes work, the love is gone. Therefore, I cleared my whole day and
made it from scratch. i put lots of good energy into it and enjoyed every step of the process! That's the whole idea of creating art, right???? We can't ever forget that!

Are you an apron fashionista? If so - submit your design to Jenny, maybe it will be featured in the magazine too!! Here are the details!

Press on our Frida event!

The East Valley Tribune did a nice feature on our group for yesterday's paper!

July 11, 2008 - 4:34PM
Artists honor spirit of famous Mexican artist
Mandy Zajac, Tribune

What does it take to be one of the Phoenix Fridas?

If the other members of this local women's artist collective named after late Mexican painter Frida Kahlo are anything like Mesa's Carmen de Novais - known as "Beader Frida" in the club - a woman's got to have it going on.

The Phoenix Fridas lead a 101st birthday celebration for Kahlo today at Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe. The women, whose work in paint, stained glass, fabric and other mediums channels Mexican folk-art traditions, will give presentations on Kahlo's life, art and the food she served in her home. De Novais will perform Latin songs by and about women on her guitar.

"Last year it was packed. You almost couldn't even walk through the store," says de Novais. "You see, Frida became a pop culture icon. She represents that rebellious force we all have inside of us, that desire to be different and challenge the status quo. She is an incredible inspiration."

So what put de Novais on Phoenix Fridas founder Kathy Cano-Murillo's short list of women worthy of joining the club?

First, she needs an art form - not a take-it-or-leave-it hobby, but a burning creative passion. For de Novais, that art is beading. She spends a couple of hours each morning in a room the color of marigolds, stringing Japanese glass beads into jewelry, purses, clothing and masks. It's a skill she learned as a child in Brazil, taking walks with her grandmother to look for seeds to prick with rusty nails and string into necklaces.

"It was quite primitive," de Novais remembers fondly.

Second, a woman's got to have a fiery spirit. Diminutive but dynamic, de Novais has a degree in economics. She has lived in Mexico, Alaska and Japan, and has played guitar, charango, accordion and vibraphone for Zum, Zum, Zum, the Brazilian band she's fronted, along with husband, artist Zarco Guerrero, for 20-plus years.

De Novais marched in the streets and played music in fields with United Farm Workers in the 1970s. She tends beets, tomatoes and chilies in her yard off Alma School Road and is mother to three children and two foster children.

To be a Frida, it doesn't hurt to dress like a million pesos, either.

"When (Kahlo) showed up anywhere, she was always exotically dressed," says de Novais. "When she went to Paris, everybody went crazy over her; they had never seen anybody who looked like her."

With sleek, raven hair, de Novais is a striking figure in a long, leopard print skirt, beaded cuff bracelets and a 2 1/2-pound red beaded shawl. Her face is bare except for lipstick the color of a serrano pepper.

But perhaps most important for a modern-day Frida is to take inspiration from Kahlo.

"I feel many connections with her," says de Novais. "My husband, not unlike Diego (Rivera, Kahlo's husband), is a famous artist, and he's always gone. I have to have my own identity, separate from his, because he's a bigger-than-life persona with his art. It's easy to feel like just the artist's wife, and I'm always trying to prove I'm an artist in my own right. I'm a musician; he learned music from me."

De Novais sees herself in Kahlo's portraits, some of which depict the artist in European dress and others that show a more indigenous look.

"Like Frida, I am of mixed descent. My mother was Portuguese and my father was native Brazilian," she says.

Mostly, she identifies with Kahlo's indomitable spirit.

"She had a zest for life that was incomparable. Her ability to overcome difficulties in life, the way she used her art as a healing tool - that is what I always try to do in my own life. It doesn't matter what problems I may have; I try to have a positive outlook and be thankful for the beautiful life I have had."

And, no, a "unibrow" is not required.

The Phoenix New Times did a small write up too!

Addicted to Dove
Booster club salutes Kahlo at 101
By Leslie Barton
Addicted to Dove

Nobody ever called Frida Kahlo an asshole, though, in 1939, the Mexican artist dubbed André Breton and the European surrealists the "bitches of Paris." Oh, snap! Frida existed to paint, and only then was the "Dove" allowed to fly free and depict her dark reality of surgeries, miscarriages, and self-medication.

Our local Frida boosters, the Phoenix Fridas, salute the late, great Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón on the occasion of her 101st birthday. Party favors include panel discussions, art, and musical performances inspired by Kahlo's work and life.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Yarn Mosaic Lampshade

Repost from 2006

I like to knit and love to crochet, but hardly have time for either, yet that doesn't lessen my addiction to yarn. So when I came across the bewitching spinning skills of Austin, Texas, artist Amanda Jones, I was hooked. I used her yarn to make this frilly lampshade and you can too!

Jones' Hysterical Yarns start at $23.05 for 55 yards. To see more of her work, visit www.venusart.org or venusart.etsy.com.

Supplies:

Yarn
Aleene's Fabric Fusion Adhesive
Lampshade
Scissors

Directions: Work one section at a time on the lampshade. Coat a circle shape with the glue and snip a 15-inch piece of yarn. Lay it on the glue in a swirl pattern. Continue all over the lampshade. Trim the edges by going around and around.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Shock and ahhhhh...

This is me right now. Totally exhausted after a way long day yesterday that began at 6 a.m.

I woke up insanely early to prep for the day's events. Two of them! The book signing was at noon on one side of town, and then Maya and I had to had to jet over to the other side of town for the Phoenix Fridas event. I led three flower tiara workshops, the place was packed! Left around 7 p.m., and went to pick up Patrick and DeAngelo at a friend's house. All I wanted to do was honk the horn and have them come to the car so we could leave.

But no.

I instead got out of the car went in the house to get them - and became mesmerized with the ginormous, gorgeous pool in the back yard. What is is with me and pools this summer? I ended up jumping in with all my clothes on. And then Patrick followed, DeAngelo, and then finally Maya. Our friends joined us and it turned into a pool party. We drove home in heavy, wet jeans.

I just woke up a few minutes ago and have a huge list of chores to get through today. I have to finish/write up directions for a craft assignment, make my CHA apron, wash all our clothes, pack, laundry, groceries, etc. The house looks like a tornado hit it, band practice is at 2 p.m., and here the topper: we have not one - but TWO camera crews arriving at our home tomorrow, the first at 8:30 a.m.

I was just about to cry wondering how I would get through it all. Next thing I know, I'm calling my mom-in-law begging for help. She is on her way over to save the day! When she is here helping us clean, she has a magical power over the kids that makes them snap to attention and carry out their duties without me having to nag them 100 times.

The whistle has been blown, the countdown has started! I'm going to go take a shower and start fresh.

Hope I didn't scare you with this picture! What thing to see first thing in the morning!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Laurie Notaro's signing!

Major score at the dollar store!

10, get that - 10 NEW crafty ideas today!

Earlier this summer I put together a slide show for LifetimeTV.com on novels that crafty elements in them - and then I came up with a project for each one.

Today the slide show went live, so please check it out. There are some fun ones, like this:

"Needlepoint mysteries seem a little campy, maybe a bit corny. Think Scooby Doo meets Martha Stewart. Hello, guilty pleasure! But with titles like "Sins and Needles," "Knitting Bones," "Thai Die," "Framed in Lace" and "Crewel World" (all by Monica Ferris), who can pass them up? Here's the ideal project: Secret Book Box. Open the front cover of a vintage hardback book. Clamp the pages down to the back cover and glue edges; let dry. Keep the front cover open, draw a square on the first page and use a craft knife to cut through the pages all the way to the back cover. Depress the top page and brush white craft glue on inside edges of the square. Let dry. You've just created a secret compartment inside what looks like a regular book!"

Visit MyLifetime.com to see the other nine!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Chica malfunction

I've been working the crafty hamster wheel so much lately that I done fell off, people!

Crashed and burned.

I just plain have not been able to fully execute an idea this week. I've started and ditched more than a few projects in the circular file.

Here is proof:

TONIGHT: It began as a perfectly great plastic woven tote I bought in Mexico. When I saw it I lovvvved it. No. i mean I lurved it. I had big plans to embellish and trick it out in sequin trim, glitter and metallic embroidery. Just as I prepped my work area, I thought of how I might be able to do something really innovative - like shrink it with my heat gun!!!

Yes, an embossing gun. That bewildered face you are making right now? I'm making it too at this very moment. What was I thinking?

At first I got really excited, I thought I was on to something phenomenal! I thought it might be like a big Shrinky Dink kind of thing.

Um, wrong.

As the seconds pressed on, the bag puckered like crazy - as if I doused it in Starburst Sours juice. It did shrink to about half the original size, but lordy, I would not be seen with this bag outside of the house. It's hardcore B-U-S-T-E-D.

Tomorrow I'll try and cover it with a hankie and use a low temp iron to see if I can flatten it. Even then, the plastic trim is all crumpled. Not only that, Patrick pointed out that these bags come in small versions, so my invention is anything but. Maybe I can cut it apart and find another use later. Sew it on a purse or something.

So I'm back to square one. Rather than take the chance of ruining any other perfectly great plastic woven totes (I have two left), I'll clock out for the night and start fresh tomorrow!

Whoa. I just thought of something! I think one of these bags would look really cool if I cut the bottom and the handles off - and slipped it over a lampshade. And add trim!

OH MY GAH!!

I just thought of something even better than that! Oooh. Oooh. Oooh, baby!

I'm going to down a Starbucks Doubleshot real quick and go back in the art room after all...stay tuned...

*exits room doing the cabbage patch dance*

Crafty Chica Spread the Sparkle Tour at Michaels stores!

Coming this August!

The Crafty Chica Spread the Sparkle Tour!

Here is the list of Michaels stores that will be carrying the Crafty Chica line from August-October!

Adding to the excitement, Patrick and I will be visiting the following Michaels stores to sign books, and promote the new goodies in person!

ARIZONA
Monday, August 11, 6-8 p.m.
2766 W. Peoria Ave, Phoenix AZ 85029-5129
(602) 588-9590

Tuesday, August 12, 11 a.m.-1p.m.
Chandler, 285 N. Federal St., Chandler AZ 85226-3192
(480) 782-0333

Tuesday, August 12, 6-8 p.m.
2060 E Baseline Road, Mesa, AZ 85204-6965

Wednesday, August 13, 11am-1pm
9470 W. Northern Ave., Glendale AZ 85305-1104
(623) 772-9614

Wednesday, August 13, 6-8 p.m.
1475 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear AZ 85338-1262
(623) 536-3158

Thursday, August 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
55 S. McClintock Dr Ste 125, Tempe AZ 85281-2042
(480) 967-0795



CALIFORNIA
Monday, August 18th, 6 – 8 p.m.
1652 Camino Del Rio N, San Diego CA 92108-1514
(619) 294-2609

Tuesday, August 19, 6 – 8 p.m.
219 N Glendale Ave., Glendale CA 91206-4455
(818) 291-0944

Wednesday, August 20, 6 – 8 p.m.
2055 Theatre Dr. Paso Robles CA 93446-9629
(805) 226-0737

Thursday, August 21, 6 – 8 p.m.
2040 Tully Rd., San Jose CA 95122-1300
(408) 274-6772

Friday, August 22, 6 – 8 p.m.
3691 Truxel Rd., Sacramento CA 95834-3604
(916) 928-9777

Saturday, August 23, 3 – 5 p.m.
7400 N Blackstone Ave
Fresno CA 93720-4301

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

This week's Crafty Chica events!

I have four fun-filled events happening this week, starting TODAY!

12:20 p.m., Wednesday
I'll be the guest on Diva Craft Lounge


CLICK HERE at 12:20 to tune in!

***



1:15, Thursday
I'll be the second guest on the new Terri O Radio: Empowering Creativity! This is her first show and I'm excited to be her first guest!
CLICK HERE to listen!

***


Noon-2 p.m., Saturday
I will be signing my Crafty Diva kids books at the Heard Museum as part of the Sizzlin Summer Saturdays.
LOCATION:
Heard Museum
2301 N. Central Avenue (Central & Encanto)
Phoenix, AZ

***



noon-5 p.m., Saturday (I will be there from 2:30-5)
Celebration of Frida Kahlo's 101st birthday! My craft group, The Phoenix Fridas, put this event on every year. We will have:

A lecture and slideshow on Frida's life
An art exhibit
Crafts for sale
Crafty Chica make and take craft (flowered tiaras)
Silent charity auction of Crafty Chica Empowerment Guardians decorated by the Fridas!

This event gets VERY crowded, so please arrive early!

Changing Hands
6428 S McClintock Dr
Tempe, AZ 85283
480-730-0205
McClintock at Guadalupe

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Dirty Girls on Top!

It's here! It's here! Dirty Girls on Top, the sequel to The Dirty Girls Social Club, by Alisa Valdes-Rodriquez.

OK, I have to admit, I was lucky enough to have scored an advanced reader copy in March, so I read that puppy in two days. St. Martins sent a box of books for me to give as prizes on my Crafty Chica cruise, and the winners gobbled up the story as much as I did. It locks you in because it is just as good as original. And it is super steamy too, if you know what I mean (wiggles eyebrows up and down).

I read it on a car ride to San Diego while Patrick, his mom, and her cousin were with us. Every time I came upon a sex scene, I held the book one-inch from my nose so they wouldn't be able to peek. Patrick would say, "Kathy!" to startle me and I'd leap so high my head would almost hit the ceiling of the car. But it's not all about that, this book will make you mad, it will make you laugh, cry - and you will be sad when it is all over. I mean that in a good way. Definitely worth the wait!!

Review from Publishers Weekly

From Publishers Weekly
Valdes-Rodriguez introduced these caliente chicas in 2003's successful The Dirty Girls Social Club. Now, five years later, the sucias reunite at a New Mexico resort, and the passionate and provocative getaway signals more changes for the crew. Usnavys—a United Way executive, self-proclaimed plus-sized manizer and sex blogger—is married to sedate Juan, who cares for their daughter while Usnavys begins an affair. Lauren is a journalist and bulimic whose fiancé, a former drug dealer-turned music industry professional, has a little something secretly going on the side. Rebecca, a magazine publisher, has dreams of a baby with her husband, but they can't conceive. Sara, a Latina Martha Stewart, is frightened and exhilarated by the reappearance of her abusive husband. Cuicatl, a wild Latina rock star, must face her feelings for her older manager, and a fickle public. And Elizabeth is slowly realizing her lesbian partner doesn't want to parent their recently adopted son. Friendships are strengthened and threatened, and facets of each woman's life crumbles while others blossom. The prose is fast and casual, and the plot moves at a fast clip. (July)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Order your copy of Dirty Girls on Top by clicking here!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

EXTRA EXTRA: Read all about it!

I've been working non-stop on five different projects at the same time! There have been at least a dozen times that I've stopped to say - "I'm going to blog this!" - but then I have to make the most of every hour.

This weekend I transferred everything over to my new computer, which took hours. Did I mention I love my new computer? On the bum side, we had the catalytic converter stolen off our 4Runner the other night, so that added more tasks to the holiday. Yesterday I cranked out qazillion customer orders, worked on some freelance articles, plus worked on making stuff for our upcoming art exhibit, not mention all the publicity ideas for the new product line release. Bedtime has been hovering around 2:30 a.m. these days.

I did get out and party this weekend though! Patrick and I went to a reggae club and danced until the band invited him on stage to play keys. I spent a bit of time people watching and grooving in my chair to Marley covers. Highlight: An almost-fight between an off-duty cop and a cholo dude over over a flirty girl in tight pants with a whale tail. Later in the night, I heard her telling people: "I have a two-month old, a 5 year-old and a 15 year-old!" I'm not judging, I'm just repeating the facts!

I have another news flash!: Patrick and I are going on a mini-tour for the product line release! It is called the Crafty Chica Spread the Sparkle Tour. I'll post the details tomorrow, but we are doing a week in Cali, visiting a store a day from Sacramento to San Diego!

The press is really starting to roll in, so far the reviews have been great! I have three phoners this week and two photo shoots next week. On top of all the work, I need to get primped and polished. I wish the hair salon was like a car wash where you could just pay, roll up and go through an automatic machine and come out the other end all spiffy and shiny.

I'll be back tomorrow with a meatier, more heartfelt post. I am truly exhausted right now and my bed sheets are singing to me. I can't resist their lullaby. I am so tired I think I'll even skip Legally Blonde: The Search for the Next Elle Woods!

Thank you to everyone for all your awesome emails. They make me cry because they are so happy and supportive. I'm beyond humbled and totally blown away. I am trying my best to answer everyone, it may take a few weeks, but I want to get to each and every one of you to say THANKS!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Crafty Cinema: The Visitor!

My sister just told me she saw this movie, The Visitor. I just watched the trailer and have already sniffled three times and now feel like buying an African drum! And I feel empowered. I love movies like this :-)

Anyhoo, here is the trailer for the flick!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

PROJECT: Canvas Jewelry Holder

By Kathy Cano-Murillo

Special for the Republic

Today I’m sharing a sentimental project that comes from my personal archives. When my husband and I first married in 1990, we vowed to live the artist’s life and earn a living from our handmade creations. But when it came time to pay the first electricity bill, that idea had yet to pay off. With $20 in our pockets, we went to the craft store, bought a canvas and materials to make earrings. We figured if we could fill the canvas with earrings, maybe we could talk a boutique owner to buy the whole shebang. Our plan not only worked, but it served as the launching pad to our craft business that is now 18 years strong. To this day, I have a canvas in our bedroom - filled with earrings. It’s a meaningful reminder of how far one idea go!

This design is great for jewelry artists who want to display their wares, or for earring addicts who want a fun way to hang their goods.

Canvas Jewelry Holder

Supplies:

1 canvas

Assorted acrylic paints, brush

4 or more hook tacks

Small hammer

Dowel rod, cut to fit the canvas horizontally

Nail

Directions: Paint the canvas however you want. You can paint it all a solid color, or make a full-on painting. Let dry. Use the small hanger to attach the hook tacks to each corner in the wood frame. Make sure the hook is facing up, because you will add the dowel rod last. Use the nail to make holes for your earrings. Hang your earrings in the holes. Place the dowel rod on the hooks and use it to hold necklaces or clip on earrings. Hang in place

Variation: Glue the canvas to the back of a frame for a more artful look. You can also add hooks to the sides of the canvas to hang earrings and bracelets. Use hinges to connect several canvases for a standing display.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Party Poppers

This project has been getting a lot of hits this week so I thought I'd repost it front and center!

Supplies

- 1 empty paper-towel tube.
- Glitter, fortunes, horoscopes, confetti, mints, funny notes, chocolate coins, small party favors.
- 12- by 12-inch piece of wrapping or tissue paper.
- Scissors.
- Glue gun or tape.
- Ribbon.

Directions: Cut the cardboard tube in half, then cut one of the halves in half. Fill all three pieces with glitter, confetti and other festive accessories. Lay the wrapping paper face down on a flat surface, then set the three cardboard tubes in an even row at the edge of the paper, leaving a 1/2-inch space between each tube. Carefully glue or tape the edge of the wrapping paper in an even line across the tubes. Roll the paper over the tubes once and trim excess paper (also on each end of the tube). Gently twist tubes at the disconnected points and add ribbon for flair. Add them to the table place settings, place a bunch inside a large glass bowl or hand out right before midnight.

Tips and variations: Before giving poppers to guests, use a pin to poke holes around the edges of the tube so it will break open easier. For smaller poppers, use cardboard tubes from wrapping paper. Use color copies of family photos for a personalized look.

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Coolest idea ever: Dessert in a shotglass!

OK, I'm awake now!

I spent so many hours making that earring/paint video yesterday and then editing it last n ight - and then today I found out that my Mac is so old that my iMovie made the video run really choppy. Normally I would say, "oh well" and wipe away a couple alligator tears - but it's cool. This is a mighty fine week to celebrate.

Not only do I get to announce the info for the Crafty Chica product line release, this week is also the one year anniversary of my novel manuscript being pitched (it sold seven days later). Today I celebrated by investing in a new Mac with part of my advance money. That way I can make new videos to promote the product line and my books - without any choppiness, beach balls on my screen, sighs or or cuss words! I haven't had a new Mac since my first Crafty Diva book, so this is a huge deal for me. Right after we walked out of the store, I swear I felt like smoking a cigarette. It felt that good ;-)

I'll be redoing the earring video, and posting a fun clip of Patrick and myself chatting about our business.

As for Michaels - I'm so blown away as much as I am happy. Right now the line is going in 141 stores as a special end cap promotion, and once it proves itself - then it goes out to more stores!

Once again, here is the list of Michaels stores that will be carrying the line. If your local store is not on the list, no worries! Everything will be available for sale right here on my site, as well as various indie stores around the country, with more to follow.

I'll be having all kinds of weekly contests and demos showing off the goods too!

OK, back to the (happy) grind!

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

Crafty Chica product line news & video

Finally I've been given the go-ahead to post the details on the product line release!

It's coming to select Michaels stores on August 1st!!!

I wanted to share the whole story with all the details, but it is 3 a.m. and I'm so tired. We worked on promo videos all day today. Here is one we finished up tonight that shows the paint.

The Crafty Chica paint pack has all my favorite...

oh gosh, I can't see straight. I'll just post the video and finish the details in the morning...

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.

High School Musical in Spanish? I'm so there...

My next round of Spanish lessons (level THREE!!!) starts up in August, so I've been working hard at practicing until then. Combine that with my daughter's obsession with HSM and now Camp Rock - and you can see where my excitement for this movie trailer comes from! It even has catchy reggaeton theme music...

See more crafty ideas in The Crafty Chica Project Library! All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2008.