If you would like to have your questions answered by a true craft insider just send an email “To Trent” at info@thinkcrafts.com.

1. I have been using this fusible interfacing, labeled “For Light to Mediumweight Fabric” and I need more, but cannot find it. Is the product “Fusible Interfacing Feather/Mid” the same product and/or same weight? I am halfway through a project and need to match the interfacing I have already been using. Thank you for any assistance.

Yes, it should be the same weight of interfacing. However many interfacings can be used with light to medium weight fabrics so it might be a bit of trial and error to find the right one. While all interfacings in a “category” are the same (light, medium, heavy) the product can be slightly different among the different brands out there. A good tip before you start a project is to cut out a two inch square of the interfacing and write the brand, product name, and weigh on it. This way you can find an exact match if you run out. It’s also great for down the road if you want to use it on a different project. You can just flip through your homemade “swatch” to find the right product.

2. I sprayed some Oregon grape stems with the semi gloss Design Master paint which you can use on florals. Is this safe to put on my Christmas tree? I have put springs throughout my tree. I am a bit concerned because of the heat from the lights, will this possibly cause a fire???

It may! We all know that spray paint is flammable but unfortunately I don’t know the flash point temperature of this particular product. That being said most of the ornaments we use have some type of flammable coating on them and assuming you use a live tree it too can burn. I think you are safe for now but as a precaution I would make sure that none of the sprigs are placed in direct contact with a light bulb and the paint is completely dry/cured before putting them up.

3. I have cards that are exactly 3.5 x 5, and I’d like to know if the envelope itself is 3.5 x 5 (so the card inside must be LESS than 3.5 x 5) or if the envelope is made for 3.5 x 5 cards (and therefore just large enough for my cards).

Great question! The envelopes at CreateForLess should do the trick as our envelope sizes are listed by the size of card that they will fit not the actual envelope size. That being said if you are planning on putting large embellishments on your cards you might consider going up a size.

4. I was just curious how thick these tin sheets are, if you could just give me a basic idea? What are they used for?

I could pull out my calipers but I don’t own any. So my best description is they are slightly thicker thank the bottom of a cookie sheet. As far as their use? You tell me dear crafter! I have seen them used to make magnet boards, calendars, wall hangings, centerpiece bottoms, accent table tops, custom backsplashes, picture frames, serving trays, abstract art……

5. Can I spray paint my couch?

Yes you could. And I am sure your dry cleaner will appreciate all the extra business you will be sending their way!

You can find the project instructions for this sunflower coaster set on FaveCrafts.com

We all need inspiration and sometimes flat out help coming up with fun stuff to make. I’m always out looking on the web for project sites. Sometimes I make the project, sometimes it inspires me to come up with a design of my own.

Here are some great project sites!

Stacy Sews  Stacy is a fabric junkie and I can relate. I love her blog! You’ll find projects, but also book reviews, celebrity style watch, tool reviews, and tutorials!

Fave Crafts Crafts from every category of techniques plus tips and videos.  I’m a bit bias as I’m the editorial consultant for the site!

Craft Projects The site owner says she’s been seeking craft projects since the day the net was born and she’s got a great collection.

Family Crafts Family crafting is what it is all about! Project for all age groups with a focus on our younger artists and crafters.

I really like it when sites display the current popular tags like FaveCrafts.com. If you scroll down the page you’ll see a list of tags like: Afghan, Baby, Birthdays, Decorating Ideas, Painting, Woodworking.  This tells you what other crafters are up to!

 Pretty Little Potholders by Lark Books

Potholders are just fun and make a great gift for any occasion.  This book has over 30 projects that range from quick and easy to a little more detailed.  The book includes great instructions for all the sewing techniques used including embroidery, yo-yos, quilting, and beading.  Most projects have a retro look and feel, but with different fabric selection can be changed to meet your personal taste and style.  I enjoyed the pot handle cozy and the yo-yo potholder.  This is a fun book with great illustrations, photographs, and step-by-step instructions. 

I enjoyed combining yo-yos with quilting for this set of potholders.

CreateForLess is having a great drawing and all you have to do is submit your very own Dear Santa letter!  The Dear Santa Sweepstakes ends 12/15 so get your entry in today! The winner gets a $100 CreateForLess gift certificate. I thought I’d share my wish list letter with you:

Dear Santa,

It’s been a whole year since I last wrote, but I’ve been quite busy crafting away for myself, family, and friends so I know you’ll forgive me for being out of touch.  I’ve been very good sharing my joy of crafting with everyone I meet and I’ve kept you, Mrs. Claus, and all the elves in my thoughts and prayers.  I’d really appreciate a few little creative goodies under the tree and in my stocking this year.  Here’s the list:

• EK Sticko Stickers Sea Animals for my dive log (I love adding embellishments to it!)
• Any of the great American Crafts cardstock would be appreciated, I love the new colors.
• Bo Bunny Album Clearly Mixed Up Serendipity, it’s so cute!
• Blue Moon Charm Lost & Found Metal Ocean Assortment for a bracelet I’m designing.
• The Clover Puff Quilting Clip Set, any size will do, or maybe you’ll bring the whole set of them?
• AlterKnits Felt Book filled with great projects to knit and felt!
• And last but not least an Ott-Lite TrueColor Lamp since my eyes aren’t as sharp as they used to be!

I hope I didn’t ask for too much, but this is a wish list after all and I’m always wishing for more craft supplies!  Take care and drive safe, Santa!

Maria

P.S. I’m leaving a little something for you under the tree!