Twilight Forks Ornament

I saw these on several sites.  It is an inexpensive fun way to Twilight up your favorite tree.

Materials. (I made 12 forks for about $4)
Plastic forks
Ribbon.  I used Black and white Gingham.  I also used red, black, and white Ribbon.  I had some scrap tulle I used as well.

If you wish you can use a fine tip black sharpie marker to add wording to the handles of the forks.   I used those ornament hangers on the back of the fork to hand it.  If you make some of these post in our flicker group or link to your blog in a comment.  http://www.flickr.com/groups/1522016@N23/

   

Twilight in Forks Christmas Tree

It was a tough decision.  My 2010 Vampire Theme Christmas Tree this year is a Twilight in Forks Christmas Tree.

I started off with the Red Ribbon Garland.  I also have a white snow bead garland, and a small red beaded Garland.

I then added Red, Black, and White ball ornaments.  I had some white icicle looking ornaments left over from a previous holiday tree.

I have added the stem feathers for the top.

The FORKS are handmade.  I was inspired by a tree I saw on the web, and I thought it would be neat to try it.

All of the ornaments were under $10.  I purchased them from Hobby Lobby, currently all of their ornaments are 50% off. You should be able to find these mini ornaments at any store.

The tree was a pencil tree that is 3ft tall.  I would prefer a different tree, but I used what I had.

See this previous post for some ideas on your tree.  http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/11/vampire-christmas-tree.html

Vampire Fan Gifts Under $25

'Vampire Craftin's Holiday Gift Ideas.' by VampireCraftin

Here are My suggestions for Holiday gift ideas for under $20www.vampirecraftin.blogspot.com

Hand Stamped Personaliz... LillyEllen $20.00	Vampire Bookmark kookycherry $5.00	Bella Teen handstamped ... agawacanyon $18.00
My Tiny Vampire - Bat C... Stargazer1984 $5.00	Edward Cullen Twilight ... rubbishtees $16.50	Wristlet in Midnight Ki... bagladiesinpa $18.00
5x7 Bella's Truck,... BellaTwilight $4.99	Twilight sights - First... BellaTwilight $10.50	Knitted, Scarf, Warm, W... summerfield68 $20.00
Twilight.. Chunky Red a... WhichWatchDesi... $20.00	Vampire Tears Bangle - ... wintergarden $7.00	FORKS BRACELET made fro... theforksforest $23.00
Bella Inspired Twilight... Stockingmama $15.00	Vampire's Kiss Soap TheBubblingCau... $5.50	25% OFF SALE organic bl... twigandleafbot... $3.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Vampire Christmas Tree

Okay this year I have a small tree that I am going to VAMP out for the holidays.  I haven't started on it yet but there are so many low cost options...I am in the process of making a decisions  .It is going to be hard for me to choose.  Here are my options.  If you have a Vampire Themed Tree I want to see.  Post the link in a comment or just email me....at vampirecraftin (you know the drill) gmail.

HERE IS MY TREE FOR 2010.  http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/11/twilight-in-forks-christmas-tree.html

Red, Black, White Twilight Tree.

Here are some ideas...

1.  I suggest Starting with a White Pre-Lit Tree.  The size depends on what space you have. A Green tree is nice as well.  I have seen black and red trees.  

2.  Black or Red Christmas Ornaments.  I was able to find packages of a dozen from $1 to $7

3.  Red Ribbon Garland or Black and White check ribbon.  

4.  Apple ornaments.

5.  Fork Ornaments.  See post tutorial for more info

6.  Photo Frame Ornaments for your Favorite photos.  Frame your Favorite Characters/scenes or copies of the book covers. (not for resale, don't break copyright) They sell twilight stickers.  

7.  Lion & Lamb Ornaments.  I saw some at Hobby Lobby for less than $5 

8.  Chess piece ornaments

9.  Wolf ornaments

10.  Paw prints meant for a pet.....use for team jacob.

12.  Feathers.

13.  Heart shaped crystal hearts.  

14.  Tissue or altered Flowers to look like the tulips on New Moon Book Cover. (will post a tutorial later.)

15.  Piano Orniment.

HERE IS MY TREE FOR 2010.  http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/11/twilight-in-forks-christmas-tree.html

    

   

Team Jacob Christmas Tree.

The key is to make your tree look like your gathered your tree trimming from the forest. 

1.  Pine cones.  (the have scented ones)

2.  Winter Berries.

3.  Pieces of wood cut in small circles and painted with your images. or words....or leave it as it is. (will post a tutorial.  

4.  Dream Catchers....

5.  Small Grapevine Wreaths.

6.  Wolves.

Here are some Photos of my Favorite Twilight Trees.  

This is my 2010 Christmas Tree.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetknez23/3162205746/

http://smileitsbecky.blogspot.com/2008/11/themed-christmas-tree.html

http://twilightguide.com/tg/2009/12/06/twilight-inspired-christmas-trees-and-a-wreath/

http://twilightguide.com/tg/2009/12/25/twilight-inspired-trees-and-graphics-sent-in-by-readers/

Vampire Dairies Tree

1.  Black Crows

2.  Red Ribbon Garland, Black Ribbon Garland, or White Garland. Red or black De-mask Ribbon

3.  Wolf Ornament (see twilight tree)

4.  Photo Frame Ornaments for your Favorite photos.  Frame your Favorite Characters/scenes or copies of the book covers. (not for resale, don't break copyright) They sell twilight stickers.  

5.  Silver Heart Ornaments.

6.  Cross Ornaments.

7.  Crystal Dangle Christmas Ornaments.

8.  Masquerade Masks.

9.  Red, black or white Christmas balls

10.  Red Berry garland.  

11.  Witches hats.  

True Blood Christmas Tree.

Merlotte's Theme.

Green Tree

Green Lights

Green Christmas balls....(you can handpaint with Merlottes logo)

Beer bottle tops strung on garland or string.

BEER or Alcohol themed ornaments.

   

Fangtasia Themed Tree.  

1.  Black Tree

2.  Black Ornaments Balls....with drips of blood (will post a tourtial later)

3.  Fangtaisa Logo printed and put into photo frames.

4.  Test Tubes full of fake blood.  

5.  Red feather Boa as your garland.

6.  Black ball ornaments covered in Red Lace and Red Crystal Drops.  (Will post a link)

7.  Check the clearance isle for small Halloween coffins. 

REMEMBER to keep in mind Gothic.  The theme of the bar is to use all of the "stereotypes" one would think of when entering a Vampire Bar.....Embrace the stereotypes.   

BUFFY Themed Christmas

I love the purple, and black color theme for Buffy.

1.  Stakes.  Mr. Pointy. ( make your own....widdle a stick?)

2.  Crosses.

3.  Holy Water (use kids craft sand bottles)

4.  Cauldron (for willow)

5.  Small Glasses for a doll for Giles

6.  Small frames to use for photos of your favorite Buffy character or scenes.  

7.  Key for Dawn.

8.  For Garland use anything 

9.  Small Simple Angels

10.  Rail Road Spikes.

12.  Axes

13.  Cross Bows.

14. A key for Dawn..

15.  Black Roses.  (Remember when Angel Gave Buffy Black Roses)

Here are some photos I took in stores.  These photos below are of the frames.  

The prices range from $.99 to $5.99.

Here are some ornaments.  If you can't find some Black, White or Red ornaments....

You are not looking hard enough.

This one was at Wal-Mart for .99 cents to $2.99

Vote for Me!

http://www.readymade.com/projects/recycled_paper_craft

Vote for my craft tutorial on Ready Made Crafts.com

Thanks so much!

Christmas Gifts On a Budget.

Black Friday is Next Friday.  It is times like this (we are in a ressesion, unemployment rate is so high) That I am thankful I have always been a frugal person.  Even if one day I was RICH...lol....  I would still find myself very careful or how and on what I spend my money.  This christmas my children will not know there is a diffrence between this Christmas and Christmases in the past.

My method is:
Each child gets a set of new clothes or an outfit.
A Christmas ornament. (the year before I buy the next years ornament at 80% off.)
2 small items.  (toys)
1 handmade item
and a BIG item (like a bike, or a video game, example)  I never spend more than $200 on each child and for the most part I can easily stay under $150.  If you shop all year long it makes things so easy...Clothes are hard because they grow so fast.

My husband and I decided long ago....we would just come up with an amount....and we would go purchase our own gifts.  I know it isn't romantic...But now I enjoy my gifts so much more....and after awhile of being married....The thought that counts looses it's sparkle....I would rather have what I want...and the obvious hints were not working.  Diamonds are a no, no in my house.  A diamond is a waste of money and resources.  It is just a rock...that doesn't dazzle me.  I would rather have crafting supplies...

As for everyone else in my life....We agreed long ago not to exchange gifts...Only to purchase gifts for the children.  Not for the adults.  Grandma's and Grandpa's receive gifts.

HERE ARE SOME BUDGET GIFT IDEAS:

For kids Infant to 6 years old
Hello get a book.  Kohls has a book with matching stuffed animal for $5 each.  This is an awsome inexpensive gift that also benefits a charity.  Only $10 and you get a book and a matching stuffed animal.  This year  they are featuring Dr. Seuss books. So you don't have to trade quality for an inexpensive gift.  If you are on a tighter budget....Get a book OR a stuffed animal.....only $5
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/landingpages/kohlscares/kidscausemerchandise.jsp

BOOKS ARE GREAT GIFTS Doesn't matter your age.
If you are looking for a book for a teen....I want to suggest the following.  Ann of Green Gables was my fav. book series when I was under 12 and it is FREE to download for a kindle or computer....
   

















HandMake a Gift a scarf, booties, gloves or a hat.  It will only cost you your time and some yarn.  If you shop at JoAnns, Hobby Lobby or Michaels...you can sign up for weekly coupons and purchase yarn at a Discount.  If you can't crochet or knit....purchase handmade items from etsy or a craft fair.  I was able to find lots and lots of handmade crochet and knitted items from $5-$20.  Great for anyone!  Stay tuned or follow my blog and I am going to post some great handmade gift ideas..

Activity Bags (gift for 3years to 21 years)
Purchase an inexpensive small tote bag and fill it with goodies such as coloring books, crayons, stickers, playing or picture cards.  Small hotwheels cars for a boy,  Jewelry for girls. Small easy bagged crafts.  You can do this for less than $10

For Teens, and Young adults.  fill your bag with magazines that engage the childs interset.
Example:  My teen soon loves video games, and Science.  In his Plain black drawstring bag I would Pack the following: Popular Science Magazine, Video Game Magazine, Mixed Pretzel Snacks, Composition notebook, or spiral notebook for him to doodle and some sharped or Mechanical pencils.

for me.....A unique craft,  Instructions, and all of the materials to make the craft.  Packed all together in a nice bag.  Young pre-Teen girls would love this as well....

If you visit Oriental Trading Company and search for personalized bags you can find several different bags for less that $15 and add a name....Once you add $5 in stickers, crayons, and other small things you find at a $1 store you would have given a gift for about $20of

Also on the OTC site you can find prepackaged crafts.  This is an awesome gift for those small ones who are visiting from out of town or will be traveling during the holidays.  Be sensitive to flying and what can and cannot go through airport security.  : (

Stay Tuned to My blog and I will teach you how to make an EASY SEW BAG...

Gifts in a Jar.
I know it sounds old fashion.  But it is an awesome gift for the adults in your family.  It makes preparing dinner and deserts so much less of a hassle and that is a gift in and of itself.  Google it!
   


















Basket Gifts.
Instead of purchasing a gift for each member of a family try this...

Spaghetti Dinner Get a Basket (or Colander) and fill it with everything they would need to have a family spaghetti night (or see my recipe for icarly spaghetti tacos) minus the meatballs and bread.  Through in a classic family movie.  and you will give a family a gift that really keeps on giving...
TOGETHERNESS

Movie Night Basket Get a basket or popcorn bucket and fill with some of the following items, Popcorn, chips, candy,  Drinks a movie or gift card.  See my 2 litter bottle crafts for a neat idea.
http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/07/vampire-gift-ideas.html
http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/07/2-liter-bottle-gift-tag.html
http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/07/team-edward-2-liter-bottle-tags.html
http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/07/team-jacob-gift.html

 I can be downsized to a 20 oz bottle by using my water bottle craft.
http://vampirecraftin.blogspot.com/2010/07/water-bottle-tag-vampire-party-favor.html

PreMixed Teas and CoCo.  Stay tuned I will be posting some ideas later.

Share your talent.  I can crochet.  but I really wish I could follow a pattern.  I was taught by my grandmother who never followed patterns and now I am the same way....I just sit down and crochet away.  I would love to sit down with someone who can show me how to knit and show me how to follow a pattern.  If you have a talent like Knitting, crochet or sewing.  Make a gift certificate and give your valuable time an knowledge away as a gift.  I have a quote...."Give a mom a sweater and you will keep her warm, Teach a mom to knit and keep her and HER family, and friends warm for a lifetime"  I just made that up.

Even if you can't craft everyone has a talent....A Green Thumb?  Offer to help plant bulbs or spring flowers.

A great cook?  Offer to prepare dinner for a family and drop it off...How about a cake....for a birthday or speical occasions....

Are you great at photography?....Offer to take a family photo or a photo of the children.  Nothing fancy....But it will mean alot.....

HOW ABOUT A NIGHT of Babysitting........ Drool..... Drool....

How about a family History or Family recipe book.  these are things that take time....but ancestry.com will allow you to sign up month to month.  For just $20.  Take one month and research some family history and put it in a book or scrapbook.  A price can not be put on such a gift.

I can pick several things I would rather have than a traditional gift....And what a great way to share a great bond with a friend or family member.

If you have any Great ideas for Gifts on a Budget Please send your ideas my way in a comments
I will be updating this post as information comes in.  Stay Tuned and follow my blog.  All of my upcomeing posts are about making gifts on a budget.

HERE IS MY LIST FROM ETSY.  These are some Awesome gift ideas for under $20 for any vampire fan.
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4ce83abbeb0e6d91afd70713/vampire-craftins-holiday-gift-ideas

Patchwork Wristlet

Zippers Scare me.  They frighten me!  

I decided to face my fear and try to make this cute little wristlet using a tutorial on one of my favorite blogs.

http://ayumills.blogspot.com/2010/08/tutorial-patchwork-wristlet.html

I don't know why....but it didn't turn out very well....I don't think it was the tutorial I think it was me..My zipper was a little puckered at the end, and the ends of the each side I cut my squares short.  

What did I do wrong???  I was happy I tried.  It was nice to use some of those scraps I have been saving...

      

True Blood Winter/Holiday Fan Art Contest

One of my favorite blogs Loving True Blood in Dallas is having a contest!  It is a Winter/Holiday Fan Art contest.  Just thought I would give you a heads up.  I know I can't wait to get started.

http://i-love-true-blood.deviantart.com/
http://www.lovingtruebloodindallas.com/2010/11/i-love-true-blood-gallery-of-true-blood.html

Please visit the above link for rules and information.  Entries are accepted November 5, 2010 to January 5,2011.

It will be so much fun to see what folks come up with.

These are my submissions for the True Blood Winter/Holiday Fan Art Contest

http://i-love-true-blood.deviantart.com/gallery/27014607#/d342ta7

Check it out!  

Here is my second submission.  You can download the full resolution file at
http://vampirecraftin.deviantart.com/art/True-Blood-Christmas-Card-188315736

Let me know if you enter....I want to see your contest submission.  

iCarly Spaghetti Tacos

If you have kids you have heard of iCarly and her older brother Spencer's wacky invention of spaghetti tacos.  My kids have been begging me to make this weird concoction.  So I went to iCarly to find the recipe.  I didn't think it sounded appetizing, so I made my own recipe.  If you don't have kids....here is a fun recipe bound to be a topic of conversation.  THIS IS AN AWESOME VEGETARIAN dish.  Just omit the meat, and add a vegetarian bean. (pinto or red bean)

Here are the ingredients you will need:
*White Corn Tortillas
*Ground Turkey Meat (or whatever you wish)
*Thin Spaghetti
*Can of Ranch Style Beans (or Chili Beans)
*Can of Rotel.  (I used mild with cilantro and lime)
* Shred Fiesta or Mexican blend cheese.  Crumbled feta cheese would taste good as well.
*Cilantro
*Black Olives.

1.Prepare the Spaghetti according to the package instructions.
2.At the same time brown the turkey adding a pinch of salt and pepper.  When the meat is completely brown drain your meat....add a can of Rotel (drain it well) and add to your meat.  Add a can of Chili beans. (we are breaking all the rules....it is okay to add the beans.
3.When Spaghetti is done add the meat and mix well.
4.  Warm your white corn tortillas in a pan or on a griddle.  I sprayed the surface of the pan with a light cooking spray.  Once you have cooked each side of the tortilla put them on a plate and top with spaghetti meat topping, cheese, cilantro, and  black olives.  FOR Heat add jalapeño slices.   Fold in half and enjoy.

I REALLY liked this.  I was very surprised.
I was thinking I needed to add more seasoning to the meat......but I am happy I didn't it tasted really good as is.  If I would have seasoned it any more it would not have been as good.  If you wanted to you could add a few tablespoons of hot sauce.  I was making this for my family so I kept the heat low...I don't want to repeat myself but to add heat add jalapeños.