Busy Work

Cody was at a career conference this weekend, so I tried to keep myself entertained while he was gone. I've been working on a craft project for a while... well, actually I haven't been "working" on it; I started it months ago and didn't pick it back up to finish until Saturday.

For as long as I can remember, my mom has received the Better Homes and Gardens magazine. I always liked stealing it from her when I went on work trips, so I decided as soon as I finished the CPA exam, I was going to order a subscription of my own. It has definitely turned out to be worth the money. I love it--it is so much fun to get so many great decorating ideas!

This "project" I was working on was an idea I got from one of the issues. I decided to try it to keep myself busy while Cody studies every night. The lamp to the left is a picture of the shade Better Homes and Gardens decorated. I decided to step it up a notch and decorate the base too. I wanted a lamp that looked funky and fun (like for a kid's room) instead of one that looked like you'd find it in a grandma's house. So, those of you who get bored like I do and don't like to rely on the T.V. for all your entertainment, I will walk you through this little craft. It was quite fun and very affordable.




Step 1: Find a cheap lamp at Savers.











Step 2: Buy supplies (see Crafta under time-wasting sites to the right for a great place to buy inexpensive ribbon).












Step 3: Wrap the ribbon around the shade, making it look like pleated lace. Use double sided fabric tape to hold it in place.


















Step 4: Find time to finish your project (like during the Saturday session of Conference). :)








Step 5: Mod Podge the base with fun scrapbook paper to add color and texture.








Step 6: Come up with an idea of how to use your lamp.















Step 7: Find another inexpensive project to keep you busy.