B.B. Bellezza Handcrafted Jewelry and Tutorials

Feel Great About Completing a Project.

2012-01-28T17:23:00.000-05:00

Today started out really productive and positive. I took photos for a new free tutorial for my tutorial newsletter subscribers. In the process, I finished a super cute project.

After I finished the project and the photo, I felt tired and I decided to take a "quick" nap.

It has been a long week. I have been sick and haven't had a lot of sleep. I feel asleep for a lot longer than I meant to. When I woke up I felt icky and that I was wasting the day!

I felt bad. Then I saw that cute little dotee doll, and felt a lot better. Why? Because I accomplished such an adorable project! Plus, I have a great start on sharing the project with others so they can also bring cuteness into the world.

Sometimes what you need is a completed project to see what you have actually accomplished. The dotee doll did that for me.

I expect the dotee doll tutorial to be going out to my newsletter subscribers at the beginning of the week. You can get on the list to get the tutorial by signing up for my Emerging Creatively Tutorial Newsletter.

52 Weeks of Handmade Earrings - Week 3

2012-01-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

Sneak Peek at New Hardware Line

2012-01-21T16:47:00.000-05:00

I've been working on some new designs for my hardware line. Here are 2 new necklaces and ways to wear them. Plus a pair of earrings.

Here's a sneak peek at an unfinished bracelet design:

It gives you a pretty idea where I'm going with this bracelet.

I have at least one more necklace in process and ideas for a couple more, plus more earrings and bracelets.

I'm thinking of a strong empowered woman while I'm making these. I feel empowered and strong wearing the new pieces and I want other woman to feel it, too.

I'm still working on the line, but it will be available soon!

Remember to sign up for email updates to stay in touch!

Subscribe to my mailing list:

New Tutorial Available: Love Hand Sewn Fabric Cuff Bracelet

2012-01-20T22:25:00.000-05:00

Love Hand Sewn Fabric Cuff Tutorial

25 pages of instructions, full color photographs and hints. You’ll learn the basics of hand sewing a cuff bracelet and then find inspiration and ideas for personalization and customization as well!

This is a great project to take on the go with you!

This is a beginner tutorial - I'll teach you everything you need to know. Get stuck? Email me for help!

Each tutorial contains:
● A list of materials and tools needed to complete the tutorial.

For the Love Cuff Tutorial, you’ll need embroidery needle, embroider floss in pink and heather gray (or other color of your choice), scissors, chalk, a button, 2 colors of denim and an old t-shirt in pink or any other color of your choice.

● Detail instructions on how to complete the project. I have written this tutorial as if you have no idea what you are doing.

● Helpful hints.

● Colorful close up photos. I make the project and stop to take photos at each step to show you. 2 ways to learn: words and photos.

● Inspiration and ideas for personalization and customization!

● Printable pattern.

● My email address in case you get stuck along the way.

Just $5

Hints and Tips:
● Create without worrying about the outcome and enjoy the creating itself.
● You don’t have to follow my instructions exactly. Try something different or use a different material. That is why I write these tutorials. I want you to feel comfortable trying something new!
● I love reusing and recycling. (No doubt you know that if you’ve visited my blog www.BBBellezza.com!) I strongly encourage you to try reusing materials to make these projects.
● You can make memorable keepsakes by using special fabrics or incorporating special objects into the cuffs. I do recommend that you practice prior to using irreplaceable items.

Terms of Use:
You may use this tutorial to create products that you sell. You do not have my permission to share, distribute or sell the actual tutorial - or any part of any tutorial - itself.

If you wish to teach this tutorial in a workshop, that is is okay with me. However, if you know of other teachers who wish to teach my tutorials, please refer them to purchase the tutorial from me.

All of this for just $5!!!

After you make the payment, I'll email you the 25 page PDF + love cuff pattern within 24 hours - or most of the time much sooner!

New Tutorial Available: Fabric Cuff Tutorial

2012-01-17T20:22:00.003-05:00

January is National Hobby month. Yay! What that means for you could be anything from practicing your clarinet to watching a lot of movies. Or maybe it means it’s time to get crafting!

Good news for you if you’re interested in getting crafting, I have a new tutorial for sale! I have put so much time and love into this tutorial. The first of many I have planned for the new year.

Fabric Cuff Tutorial

It’s 41 pages of instructions, full color photographs and hints. You’ll learn the basics and then find inspiration and ideas for personalization as well!

You’ll get the instructions for the Basic Fabric Cuff. Then you’ll find instructions for the Freestyle Sewing Cuff, Hardware Cuff, Lots O’ Buttons Cuff and Flower Cuff. At the end are hints and ideas for further customization.

Additionally, you’ll receive a 25-page tutorial for the Hand Sewn Love Cuff. You’ll learn how to hand sew a cuff and get ideas for customization for that as well. Sew on the go!

Each tutorial contains:

● A list of materials and tools needed to complete the tutorial. You’ll need a sewing machine, scissors, thread, needle, paper, pen, ruler, fabric (I recommend worn out jeans), and a button. (For customization you’ll want a pile of buttons, hardware, and/or additional different fabric. For the Love Cuff Tutorial, you’ll need embroidery needle, embroider floss in pink and heather gray (or other color of your choice), scissors, chalk, a button, 2 colors of denim and an old t-shirt in pink or red.)

● Detail instructions on how to complete each project. I have written this tutorial as if you have only the basic knowledge of how to use a sewing machine. You’ll have to be able to sew in a straight line.

● Helpful hints.

● Colorful close up photos. I make the project and stop to take photos at each step to show you. 2 ways to learn: words and photos.

● Lots of inspiration and ideas for personalization and customization!

● Patterns for flower cuff and love cuff. I’ll show you how easy it is to make a pattern for the cuff itself.

● My email address in case you get stuck along the way.

Hints and Tips:

● Create without worrying about the outcome and enjoy the creating itself.

● You don’t have to follow my instructions exactly. Try something different or use a different material. That is why I write these tutorials. I want you to feel comfortable trying something new!

● I love reusing and recycling. (No doubt you know that if you’ve visited my blog!) I strongly encourage you to try reusing materials to make these projects.

● You can make memorable keepsakes by using special fabrics or incorporating special objects into the cuffs. I do recommend that you practice prior to using irreplaceable items.

You may use these tutorials to create products that you sell. You do not have my permission to share, distribute or sell the actual tutorial - or any part of any tutorial - itself.

If you wish to teach this tutorial in a workshop, that is is okay with me. However, if you know of other teachers who wish to teach my tutorials, please refer them to purchase the tutorial from me.

Price:

For all this, the price is just $15!

After you pay, I’ll email you the 2 PDF eBooks and the patterns (also PDFs) that go along with it.

Fabric Cuff Tutorial

If you have any questions, please let me know!

Maybe this tutorial isn't quite for you? Sign up for my new tutorials email list and be the first to know when a new tutorial is available!

5 Environmentally Friendly Ways to Purchase Clothes

2012-01-16T20:13:00.001-05:00

We don’t often talk about recycling clothing. Until recently, it didn’t even occur to me that people would throw clothes away! But according to the Nation Resources Defense Council, Americans discard 68 pounds of clothing per year. We buy cheap, disposal clothing and then quickly get rid of it when the new trend comes out, wasting valuable resources - both in making new clothes and landfill space with the trashed clothing.

When you consider all the different ways to reuse clothing, it’s astonishing that much would be thrown out.

I did a post about some ways to reuse clothing. Obviously you can donate it, pass it on to a friend, use it for rags, etc.

I also gave some tips for usingworn out or stained clothes in crafts.

However, we also can help the environment by how we purchase clothes!

Here are 5 environmentally safe ways to purchase clothes:

1. Go for quality, well-made clothing that will stand the test of time. Quality over quantity.

2. Purchase your clothing from consignment shops. (If you're in Lancaster, PA, make sure to check out BUiLDiNG CHARACTER in downtown Lancaster for 2 reused clothing store options in 1 location!)

3. Purchase your clothing at thrift stores. You never know when you’ll find a major label at a major discount at Good Will, American Rescue Workers or Salvation Army! Check for their sales. Usually certain days are half-off clothes. Good Will has a discount card you can purchase to get even better deals!

4. Yard sales are a great way to get clothes at really cheap prices. You can often find clothes that are almost like new. This is especially true of children’s clothes! Look for ads for yard sales in your newspaper or on craigslist.

5. Join Freecycle and find clothes for free. Of course, if you are getting clothes for free, make sure to also list clothes that you no longer need on Freecycle as well.

Make sure to save your worn out jeans for a tutorial that I will be launching on Wednesday, January 18, 2012! Make Jewelry from Jeans!! If you want to know as soon as it’s available and get on the list for future tutorials, sign up for my Emerging Creatively Tutorials newsletter:

52 Weeks of Handmade Earrings

2012-01-15T19:56:00.000-05:00

A new year brings on new goals, new resolutions, a fresh start. Or so we think. As I move along in my life the years go so quickly and before you know it, another year has passed and you don’t even know what happened.

Through the years I've tied making a more visual, physical reminder of my year. I’ve tried (without success) to document my life in daily photographs. I’ve tried to create every day for a month (although I did create each day, I didn’t really work very much on the project I was attempting to finish) and other daily projects, all without success.

This year I decided to try something different. Instead of daily, I’ll be making something weekly. And instead of it being a huge project that takes a lot of time, I’ll be making earrings. 1 pair per week.

Each week I will make 1 pair of earrings. I’m making them for myself (although if you all love the design, I may put them in my line). I’ll share my earrings each week here on my blog.

Since 2 weeks have passed this year already, I have 2 pairs of earrings to share.

Week #1

This pair was made with washers, beads made from lava and clear glass beads. I have already worn these earrings quite a bit.

Week #2

Earrings made from bobbins from a sewing machine. I actually use plastic bobbins with my sewing machine because that's what they came with. I love the metal and have a few sets from a large sewing kit I got at a yard sale. I think they make adorable earrings!

How do you like my new earrings? Have you considered doing something like this for the new year?

The Beginning of My Goddess Year

2012-01-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

2012 Creating My Goddess Year Workbook and Planner

If you are a woman - any woman - I believe you will find Goddess Leonie inspirational, truthful and full of love and joy.

Recently I purchased "2012 Creating My Goddess Year Workbook and Planner."

It is gorgeous - lots of colors, fun fonts and art throughout. I got right to work on filling out the excercises, which are thought provoking and help get your mind in the right place when starting out a new year.

There are worksheets to fill out to help you ease out of 2011 and plan and dream for 2012.

To Do Book

One thing that I really found helpful is making a "to do book” as Goddess Leonie describes. She tells you how to do this in the workbook, but she previously did a video on this

here’s her video:

Ask Goddess Leonie: The To Do List Book from Goddess Leonie on Vimeo.

If you know me, you know I have a list. Or rather a few lists. I have read a bunch of books and I have tried all kinds of different ways to organize my lists. Usually I can't figure out how to keep my list with me, while still being able to keep it constantly changing.

If my list isn’t with me, it’s sort of pointless. I’ve tried to find ways around this that have improved the situation (like putting my lists on google docs so I can access them anywhere I have the internet; however, I don’t have internet access everywhere I go.)

Now I have finally found the solution! Goddess Leonie's "to do list book." Or as I like to call it, the Big Book of Beautiful Bounty.

After reading about it in "Creating My Goddess Year Workbook and Planner," I got straight to work on it. Just like Goddess Leonie suggested, I put one goal on each page. Actionable tasks go underneath.

The best part, is that no matter where I am, I can take the book with me. It fits in my purse! It travels!

I saw the video when Goddess Leonie first showed it and I didn’t really think it was for me, but after reading about it again, I realized that it was the perfect solution. In perfect time for the New Year!

This is just one tiny little juicy tidbit in the "2012 Creating My Goddess Year Workbook and Planner." It’s over 100 pages. I am working through it myself right now!

It is soooo affordable and you instantly get it in your email. I’m planning my yearly goals and dreams in it.

Who wants to join me? Let me know if you are already doing it and want to talk about it.

If you haven't gotten it yet, head over to get your copy now: 2012 Creating My Goddess Year Workbook and Planner.

Fabric Flower Tutorial

2012-01-14T15:30:00.002-05:00

Fabric Flower Tutorial

This tutorial is similar to my Newspaper Flower Tutorial, but uses fabric instead!

These make great gifts because unlike regular flowers, these flowers never die! Use old worn out clothing for fabric and your helping the planet twice (once for not cutting flowers and again by reusing fabric.)

Materials and tools:

Fabric (for tips, see How to Use Recycled Clothing in Craft Projects)

2 Buttons

Floral Wire

Flower Pattern (pdf)

Scissors

Pliers

Straight pins

Instructions:

Step #1

Print out and cut the flower pattern. Alternatively, you could draw your own. The flowers are 2 sizes, one is smaller than the other.

Step #2

Pin the pattern to the fabric and cut out the fabric. You'll cut 3 of each size. You can use 2 different colors like I did here, or you can use just one color.

Next we're going to put all the pieces in a pile in order.

Step #3

Put a large flower right side down first.

Step #4

Fold the other 2 large flowers in half - right side out - and place them next to each other as shown in the photo.

Step #5

Place the smaller 2 flowers on top of the larger in a similar manner, but place them the other direction.

Step #6

Place the final smaller flower on top, right side up and unfolded.

Step #7

Fold the floral wire in half.

Step #8

Place a button on the floral wire.

Step #9

Before we start placing the fabric on the floral wire, we need to place small cuts in the fabric. I cut each as I need them. Take the top flower and fold it in half, and fold it in half again. Make a tiny cut in the fabric. (It will make 2 cuts.)

Step #10

Take the top flower off the pile, cut slits in it (as described in step #9) and slide it onto the floral wire, right side facing the button.

Step #11

Place the first of the folded flowers onto one prong of the floral wire.

Step #12

Add the next flower on the other prong of the floral wire.

Step #13

Add the next folded flower, going the opposite direction as the first 2. This time, you'll place both prongs of the floral wire through the hole.

Step #14

Place other folded flower onto the floral wire just like in the previous step.

Step #15

Add the final flower, wrong side toward the other flowers.

Step #16

Add the second button.

Step #17

With your pliers, twist the floral wire. I like to make sure the first twist is tight to the button.

Step #18

Then twist the entire floral wire. I usually hold the pliers on the wire and twist the flower. Then as it is twisted, move the pliers down the wire.

Step #19

Enjoy your never-dying flower!

Want more ways to reuse clothing and make awesome stuff?!? I'm releasing a new tutorial next week! To get on the list to be the first to know when it's available, sign up for my new tutorial newsletter (Emerging Creatively)

Sale and New Year Update

2012-01-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

I hope that everyone is ready for a fresh new start and new year.

I have a lot planned for this wonderful new year that I want to tell you about.

Artwork Pendants

First off, as you may know, I have started a new website, ArtworkPendants.com

This website will have just artwork pendants (I previously called them art charms). I’m working on a whole new line up of pendants and a collector’s card to make collecting them fun and easy! They are mostly scrabble tile pendants and glass tile pendants that feature art! Either art from a famous person (Monet, Renoir, Manet, Degas, Van Gogh, etc., etc.) or art from an indie artist (Stephanie Corfee, Iolanda Reinsmith, David Gerbstadt, Lauren Startzman, etc.)

If you want to continue to hear about Artwork Pendants, head over and sign up for the newsletter. The website is currently under major construction. If you sign up, I’ll let you know when it’s up and running and send you the collector’s card free when it’s ready!

Tutorials

I have also been very hard at work on a new tutorial and will be ramping up both my tutorials for sale and free tutorials on my blog!

I get so many questions about how to sell on etsy, eBay and lots of other questions about online sales and marketing that I have decided to write a course for the beginner! I’ll give out more details as they are available, but make sure to get on the email list for tutorials so you know when it’s coming!

To get more focused tutorial newsletters, sign up here. I’m working on a free tutorial to send subscribers for signing up and I’ll send it to you when it’s ready. You can expect free tutorials and announcements about new tutorials in that newsletter! Puts tips and techniques I won’t share elsewhere!

B.B. Bellezza Green Handmade Jewelry

New green handmade jewelry is on its way, too!

Sale

Right now use the code “NEWYEAR20” (without the quotes) to get 20% off in my etsyshop for a limited time! OR use code “FREESHIP” to get free shipping. Pick one code and save! (For some instructions on how to use coupon codes on etsy, see my little tutorial here: How to Use Coupon Codes on Etsy)

Payments

There have been a lot of questions regarding payments on etsy lately. It’s been confusing for a lot of people, so if you have been confused, you are definitely not alone!

In order to pay via credit card, you have to chose “pay via paypal.” You can then either use your paypal account if you have one - OR - put in a credit card without a paypal account. (You do not have to have a paypal account nor do you have to sign up for one).

Of course, if you have any questions about this or anything else, please feel free to contact me. Just hit reply to this email!

Thank you all for a wonderful year and I’m looking forward to a new one!

How to Use Recycled Clothing in Craft Projects

2012-01-10T20:45:00.000-05:00

You can use fabric from old, worn out or stained clothing for craft projects in the same way that you would use new fabric.

With 700,000 or more TONS of clothing being tossed in the landfill each year, every time you can reuse clothing helps.

Tips for using worn clothing for craft projects. (Note: there are lots of people who need clothing, so if you have perfectly good clothing you simply do not want anymore or that doesn't fit you, consider donating as a first option.)

1. Left the clothing intact until you know what you are using it for. Cutting apart the clothes actually won’t make sense until you know the size of your project. Or maybe you’ll come up with a creative idea for a sleeve that you wouldn’t be able to make if you already cut apart the sleeve.

2. Use the little pieces of clothing for little projects. This is fairly obvious, but to get the most out of a piece of clothing for a project, use the smaller pieces (i.e. the collars, sleeves, etc.) for smaller pattern pieces of your project or for smaller projects and leave the bigger pieces for bigger projects.

3. Launder the clothing prior to using it in a project. I often have friends give me clothing to use in my projects in addition to my own old clothes. I’m pretty sure that they probably washed it already, but instead of finding out after-the-fact, I wash it prior to use.

4. Look for small holes or stains that will be in the way of your project and work around them.

5. Denim is fabulous! You can always find an awesome project to do with it. It seems like it’s one of the most popular fabrics, so there’s always a lot around!

* Make sure to save your denim for a new tutorial I will be launching next week! It combines denim and simple sewing skills, plus lots of other basic and easy-to-learn skills to make unique and artful pieces of jewelry! To be on the list to be one of the first to know, sign up for my Tutorial Newsletter.

Email Marketing Kickstart by Tara Gentile - Review

2012-01-10T08:00:00.004-05:00

Click here to view more details

Have you been wanting to get started with email marketing and not sure where to start? Or maybe (like me) you already have a email list, but aren't really sure what you're supposed to be doing with it. Maybe you're overwhelmed by how to get started.

Tara once again hits the nail straight on the head with this 30 - day workshop.

It comes in perfect bite size daily inspirations. You get actionable tasks to take each day.

Email marketing is one of the most important thing you can do to promote your business and nurture your customers! Tara will show you how to create a strategy and start to profit.

I'm only on day 4 and already I'm gaining valuable information. I can't wait to get the next email from Tara each day!

Check out all the details of Email Marketing Kick Start here.

{Full disclosure: I am an affiliate of this program, which means that if you click that link and make a purchase, I get money for it. I only promote products I believe in with people or companies that I stand behind. I'm taking this course myself and have given my true feelings on it.}

What to do with old clothing?

2012-01-09T19:34:00.000-05:00

Various reports state that anywhere from 700,000 to millions of TONS of clothing end up in the landfill each year. Reports state that up to 10% of landfills are clothes.

I cannot believe that! I personally cannot remember ever throwing away a piece of clothing, even as a child. There are so many ways to remove clothing from your closets without having to throw them away, I can’t believe that so much does end up in the landfill.

Here's what to do with your old unwanted clothing:

1. Check with friends and see if they would like clothing you don’t want anymore. You could even throw a Clothing-Swap-Party, where everyone brings the clothing they don’t want anymore and everyone trades clothes!

2. Give them to charity. You can take even old, worn out clothes to be donated because they will be made into rags or commercially recycled. My local Goodwill raises money by selling damaged clothing to the commercial recycling market. (Check with the charity first, I don’t know if all donation centers do this.)

3. Cut them up and use them for rags for cleaning your home. T-shirts are particularly great for dusting!

4. Make crafts out them! Anything you can make using fabric, you can make using old clothes.

I’ll be sharing a free tutorial later on this week that is just one of many projects you can make with recycled clothing.

Follow along this week and get tips on how to use your clothing for projects, a free projects and stay tuned next week for the launch of my latest tutorial, which make great use of recycled clothing. Sign up for my tutorial newsletter to be the first to get in on the action!

12 More Ways to Reuse Glass

2011-12-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

1. Candle holders: Put Epsom salt in the bottom and place a candle on top to make Epsom Salt Snow Mason Jar Candles. (Or use any jar or glass you have around.)

2. Snowman altered bottles. You can even take an online workshop to learn how to make these.

3. Light bulb ornaments.

4. Use as vases.

5. Catch fireflies.

6. Use empty wine bottles as candle holders for taper candles.

7. Make a snow globe.

8. Give gifts in them - chocolates, hot chocolate, little collections of crafty things for your crafty friends, homemade salsa.

9. Fill them up with bath salts that you make yourself .

10. Ribbon dispenser. Just cut a slot in the top of the lid.

11. Fill them with stones and sue them as bookends.

12. Memorabilia specimen jars.

Previous posts on B.B. Bellezza about reusing glass:

Don't Throw Out that Broken Mirror (and don't recycle it either!)

15 Ways to Reuse Glass

2011 Christmas Shipping Deadlines (and Custom Order Deadlines)

2011-12-05T20:04:00.000-05:00

2011 Christmas Shipping Deadlines

Outside of the United States:

Asia

Australia

Canada

Caribbean

Mexico

Europe

Middle East

Place your order from my shop by December 8th (this Thursday!) for shipment in time for Christmas.

(If your area isn't listed and you are outside of the United States, the deadline has already passed!)

Within the United States, the last day to order from me is December 16th for shipment in time for Christmas.

I can no longer take International custom orders in time for Christmas.

The cutoff for custom orders within the United states is December 9th (this Friday!) at the very latest. Please contact me ASAP if you might have a custom order!

Thank you for your loyal support!

Where Will B.B. Bellezza Be This Weekend?

2011-12-02T18:32:00.000-05:00

Friday, December 2, 2011

First Friday 6 pm - 9 pm

The B.B. Bellezza Booth at BUiLDiNG CHARACTER

342 N. Queen Street, Rear

Lancaster, PA 17603

Saturday & Sunday, December 3 and 4, 2011

9 am - 4 pm each day

Holiday Arts Market

at Eastern Market

308 E. King Street

Lancaster, PA 17603

Find lots of great artists' work! This is the 5th year and there's always a great variety that can't be found anywhere else!

I'll have some great ornaments, lots of pendants, clock hand earrings, hardware earrings, a new style of crystal earrings, plus much much more!!

See you there!

Reuse Glass Jars: Memorabilia Specimen Jars

2011-11-29T20:17:00.000-05:00

I take a lot of little road trips to strange and interesting places. Sometimes I pick up little do-dads here and there. Maybe it's a ticket stub from the museum we went to. Maybe it's an interesting stone I found along the way. Perhaps another little souvenir.

From a very young age I have been a scrapbooker, so I have been collecting things for my scrapbooks my entire life. Unfortunately, the older I get and the more responsibilities I have, the less time I have for scrapbooking.

I have discovered digital scrapbooking, which you no doubt have noticed if you are a frequent visitor here! I find it to be so relaxing and much more simple than the old way. I don't have to bring out a bunch of paper and supplies and spend days on layouts. (I am an affiliate, but that doesn't take away from the fact that I love My Memories. I have a discount for you if you're interested in giving digital scrapbooking a try!)

Even so, there are plenty of tangible items that I have laying around that I can't bear to give up, but I have no where to put them.

I came up with an idea for keep the items! Glass jars! Sort of like specimen jars, but with memorabilia instead.

For example, the beach is a popular vacation destination. Maybe you've even already done this: gather sand and sea shells and place them in a jar (a reused jar, of course!)

I think this is a great idea for any destination. I always have ticket stubs, little trinkets, stones and whatever else I might find and pick u along the way. Just place them in a jar.

Then you can even make a cute sticker with the date, where you were and what you did. (You could even use the My Memories software to make the sticker.)

How cute would a bunch of jars lined up on your shelf from your different travels be? Or use them as bookends!

I haven't actually tried it yet, but I will definitely share when I make the first one!

Other ideas:

Gifts: Make them for gifts! Put little things in the jar that remind you of the person you are making it for. Think of the secret jokes you share or the fun times you have had together and find small inexpensive trinkets to commemorate them.

If you go on a group trip - make one for each of the participants for a holiday gift. Then you get to remember the fun you had all over again.

Have a friend you haven't seen in a while? This would be a great way to get reacquainted with them! Send them a memorabilia specimen jar with some of the fun memories you had in the past.

Wedding: Fill up jars with little things about the Bride and Groom - maybe little known facts - and use them as centerpieces for the reception.

These could even be used as personalized wedding favors in smaller weddings.

They don't have to be expensive. The point is the actual memory, not the cost.

Are you going to make a memorabilia specimen jar? What will you put in your jar? Click on comment and let me know.

Review of the book, The Help by Kathryn Stockett

2011-11-29T09:47:00.001-05:00

I finally got a chance to read The Help by Kathryn Stockett.

This book was captivating. Set in Mississippi in 1962, the book is told through the voices of 3 very different women. Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan is just out of college and living with her parents. Aibileen Clark is a 50ish black woman who is a maid and becomes one of Skeeter's friends. Minny is the third narrator and she is a younger outspoken maid. I have always been pulled in by books that had several different "voices." One of my favorites like that is The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver.

The three woman begin to work together on a book about the "Help," filled with stories - good and bad - about being a black maid in a white household in Mississippi in the time.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I couldn't put it down. However, I also wonder if the author really portrayed the nitty gritty of the time period accurately. Yes, the book is entertaining and highly readable, but I think the unrest of the time period in Mississippi is a little brushed over. The reactions about what could have happened to any of the woman participating in the project felt a little played down to me.

However, overall the book is definitely worth a read!

(Full disclosure: I am an affliate of Amazon, which means if you click on the image above and purchase this book, I receive a small percentage of the sale. Amazon in no way influences me to write this review, what to write or my opinion. My opinions are freely given.)

Colonial Theatre Fundraiser Art Pendants

2011-11-28T21:07:00.000-05:00

I'm so happy to present Colonial Theatre Pendants! There are Glass Tile Pendants (above) available for $25, or Scrabble Tile Pendants (below) for $15.

This pendant was made with a wonderful photo of the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, PA at night. This is the famous theatre featured in the "run out" scene in the cult classic movie "The Blob."

For more information about the Colonial Theatre, please see the Colonial Theatre website.

The photography for this pendant was supplied by the theatre and we are sharing the proceeds of each pendant. With each pendant you purchase, you are supporting a piece of history.

- The glass tile pendants are 7/8" square. The photograph is preserved under a smooth glass tile.

- The scrabble tile pendants are .75" x .82"
- Pendants are water resistant, but not waterproof. Do not submerge them in water – take them off before you jump in the pool, hot tub or shower.

They are both available in my etsy shop, and remember, 1/2 of the sale goes to the Colonial Theatre!

How To Use Coupon Codes on Etsy

2011-11-28T20:38:00.000-05:00

More than one person has told me that they had trouble figuring out how to use these codes I give out from time to time, so I'm sharing this step-by-step on how to use them!

How to use coupon codes in my etsy shop:

Step #1

Go shopping and put items in your shopping cart.

Step #2

When you're done shopping and ready to check out, click on shopping cart.

You'll find the "apply coupon code" link on the right side.

or a closer look:

Step #3

Click on the "Apply shop coupon code" link. When you click on it, a box appears where you can type in the coupon code.

Step #4

Fill in the coupon code (right now for Cyber Monday I have a free shipping code FREESHIP, so I'm using that code for this example. But you would place whatever code I may be offering at the time here.)

Step #5

Click the "apply" button.

The code will be green and whatever the deal is should be written underneath it. In this example, "you received free shipping!"

Step #6

Continue to checkout as normal.

I hope this helps clear up any confusion! Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or problems!

Personalized Custom Gifts

2011-11-21T19:22:00.002-05:00

It's almost Thanksgiving and I hate to rush into the Christmas holiday season, but if you are looking for one-of-kind personalized custom gifts in time for the holidays, now is the time to get your order in! I don't have a deadline for ordering yet, but it will be soon!

Glass Tile Pendant

Scrabble Tile Pendant

B.B. Bellezza pendants make wonderful, personalized gifts. Your gift recipient can wear more than one at the same time and they are all interchangeable with the cords and chains I offer.

Scrabble Tile pendants (see the pendant with the photo of Centralia Tree above) are .75" x .82" and are made on an actual scrabble tile from the Scrabble game. The image is applied to what is actually the back of the game piece and a silver plated bail is attached to the side with the letter. You can partially see the letter on the back. (Custom letter selection is sometimes available, but not always depending upon my supply of tiles at the time.)

They have a glass-like glaze preserving the image.

Glass tile pendants (see the pendant with the couple above) are approximately 7/8" x 7/8". The image is preserved under the smooth glass tile. A silver plated bail is attached.

CARE: The pendants are water resistant, but not waterproof. Do not wear them in the shower, pool or hot tub. Make sure to remove if you're near a pool in the presence of your bratty little brother. (He will throw you in....)

Ideas for personalization:

1. Any photo: photos of kids, a loved one, favorite vacation location, photo of something sentimental, a favorite tree, etc.

What I need: Send me a photo via email in digital form (preferably a .jpeg) and I'll resize it into a pendant.

Glass Tile Pendant $25

Scrabble Tile Pendant $15

2. Custom initials or name up to 3 letters.

What I need: Send me the name or the initials (or just a letter.) Tell me their favorite color(s) and I'll create a pendant with initials and a cool background.

Here's an example with my name. It has a register in the background because I work with numbers in my day job and some cute flowers. This is just an example, but the possibilities are endless.

Glass Tile Pendant $27

Scrabble Tile Pendant $17

3. Artwork: Your own artwork or a child's

What I need: Email me the image in digital form (.jpeg is best)

Glass Tile Pendant $25

Scrabble Tile Pendant $15

Cords and Chains

Sold separately: $4

Cord and Chain Choices:

Ball Chain 24 inches, can shorten by cutting with regular scissors

Cotton Cords: Black, Dark Brown, White, Pink 16", 18", 20", 22" or 24"

Black Satin Cord: 16", 18", 20", 22" or 24"

Black Ribbon: 16", 18", 20", 22" or 24"

Cords/Ribbon made with silver plated findings and a lobster clasp

Shipping:

First Class, flat rate (no matter how many items you purchase, it's the same price)

U.S. $3

Canada $4

Other locations: varies (contact me for quote and to make sure that I can ship to your country), most will be $5

Gifts:

I'm happy to ship directly to a gift recipient and add a personalized note for no extra charge.

TIPS:

The less busy the background, the better the pendant will turn out. These pendants are small, so of course the photos will be small.

I may have to crop the photo or resize the photo to get it to fit. If there is something important about the photo that I might not realize (a/k/a something important in the background that I might cut out when cropping), please point it out.

If you are ordering a glass tile pendant, I also have rectangle glass tiles (about 2"x 1"). If I find that the rectangle will work better for your image, I'll let you know.

LEAD TIME:

Approximately 2 weeks. If you have a rush order, I can try, but I will still need at least 4 days to make your pendant.

Shipping price includes first class mail, but I can upgrade if you're in more of a rush.

TO GET STARTED:

Email me with your ideas or photos. I'll let you know if how long it will be and your total. If you are not sending me a photo (i.e. option #2 above) I'll work up a design and email it to you for your approval. After that, I'll send you an invoice for total payment via paypal. You'll get the invoice in your email with instructions. After I receive your payment, I'll start working on your pendant. The time I quote is starting fromt he time your payment is received.

If you are in the Lancaster, PA area, you have the option to pick up your pendant at BUiLDiNG CHARACTER in downtown Lancaster. I can't get there everyday, though, so I will let you know when I can have your purchase there. (Make sure to let me know prior to paying so I don't charge you shipping.)

WHOLESALE:

Contact me for wholesale pricing when purchasing 10 or more pendants of the same image!

Any questions, please let me know!

My Memories Giveaway

2011-11-11T10:40:00.000-05:00

If you missed or didn't win my giveaway of My Memories Scrapbooking Software, great news, my significant other is giveaway a copy of the software on his blog!

Just head over to his blog and find out how to enter (hint: it's easy, just go to the mymemories website, pick out your favorite kit and come back to his blog and leave a comment.)

He's picking a winner on Wednesday, so be sure to get your entry in!!

MyMemories Digital Software Review and Giveaway

Tuesday Tip for Greener Living: Buy Used

2011-11-08T19:54:00.000-05:00

Tuesday Tip for Greener Living: Buy Used

Ideas where to buy used:

Thrift stores (stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army or others)
Antique stores
Architectural Salvage stores (in Lancaster: BUiLDiNG CHARACTER)
eBay
Craigslist
Freecycle (free stuff! bonus!)
Garage sales
Rummage sales (usually at churches)
Used furniture stores
Consignment shops
Newspaper listings
Swap with friends
If you're in Lancaster (or some other great city that has one) check out Lancaster Creative Reuse for all your crafting needs
If you're in Lancaster: Habitat for Humanity Restore

You will find great stuff - sometimes even almost new stuff - in these places!

Where do you buy used?

Grand Prize Winner!

2011-11-06T19:38:00.001-05:00

The winner of the final, grand prize is Peggy!

Peggy, you have an email waiting for you with instructions!

A great big thank you to everyone who participated, made purchases, shared on facebook, tweeted, commented, etc.!

With that, we close Virtual Open House III

THANK YOU!

New Ornament Collection

2011-11-06T01:45:00.000-04:00

I have a new line of cute ornaments available in my shop!

They are modern images, preserved under 7/8" square glass hanging from a silver plated bail. Each hangs from lace or ribbon.

They are adorable as ornaments. But, the best thing is you can cut the ribbon off and use as a pendant, too!

They are just $10 each and they are going fast in my shop!

Virtual Open House III - Day 6! Grand Prize Giveaway!

2011-11-05T10:52:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Day 6 of the Virtual Open House!

To find out all the details of what is going on here, see Day 1 of the Virtual Open House.

Congratulations to our Day 5 winner, picked by random: Sam from Aaron's Books! Congratulations!

Today is the last giveaway, and it's a big one! It's the grand prize for the week! (See below!)

Get 20% off in my etsy shop all week with the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE

Freebies with orders each day!

Today's Grand Prize:

$25 Gift Certificate to the B.B. Bellezza online shop!

To Enter to Win:

This is a little different from the rest of the giveaways this week:

If you have entered any of the other giveaways this week, you are entered to win this one. You get one entry for that.

You get an entry if you have made a purchase this past week.
Get an entry for simply leaving a comment below! If you don't have an account, you can leave your comment anonymously. Just make sure to leave your email so that I can get a hold of you!
Get an entry for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Get an entry for tweeting about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Get an entry for sharing on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above or write whatever you want.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.) Leave a comment here for an entry.
Note: if you need help commenting or aren't technological, just email me and I'll leave your comment for you!

Winner will be chosen Sunday evening at 6 pm Eastern time.

Also, I'll send along a freebie with each purchase today (Sat) and Sunday! The freebie for the weekend is a scrabble tile pendant - I'll choose a random pendant to send along with your purchase.

To get the freebie, just make a purchase Saturday or Sunday in my online shop using the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE. You'll get 20% off and a free scrabble tile pendant!

Virtual Open House III Day 5

2011-11-04T08:30:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Day 5 of the Virtual Open House!

To find out all the details of what is going on here, see Day 1 of the Virtual Open House.

Congratulations to our Day 4 winner, picked by random: Jennifer

Each day there is a Giveaway!

Get 20% off in my etsy shop all week with the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE

Freebies with orders each day!

Today's Giveaway:

Artwork Pendant: Van Gogh

This pendant was made with a glass tile and a miniature image of the artwork of Van Gogh. It's 7/8" square. Find all of my Artwork Pendants in my online shop.

To Enter to Win this Pendant:

Simply leave a comment below! If you don't have an account, you can leave your comment anonymously. Just make sure to leave your email so that I can get a hold of you!

Get extra entries for doing any of the following. For each item you complete, leave a separate comment:

Get a chance for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Tweet about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Share on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above or write whatever you want.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.)
Note: if you need help commenting or aren't technological, just email me and I'll leave your comment for you!

That's 6 total chances! Winner will be chosen around 8:00 am Eastern tomorrow (Saturday) morning!

Also, I'll send along a freebie with each purchase today! Today's freebie is a scrabble tile pendant - I'll choose a random pendant to send along with your purchase.

To get the freebie, just make a purchase today in my online shop using the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE. You'll get 20% off and a free scrabble tile pendant!

TOMORROW the Grand prize will be listed. Everyone who has commented thus far, made a purchase or who comments on tomorrow's post will be entered to win!

Update: Winner has been chosen and comments have been closed! See the Grand Prize post for your last chance to win during Virtual Open House III!

Art Every Day - Day 3

2011-11-03T21:18:00.000-04:00

I'm making progress on my project. Slowly, but surely.

Virtual Open House III - Day 4

2011-11-03T08:08:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Day 4 of the Virtual Open House!

To find out all the details of what is going on here, see Day 1 of the Virtual Open House.

Each day there is a Giveaway!

Get 20% off in my etsy shop all week with the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE

Freebies with orders each day!

Today's Giveaway:

One of my brand new ornaments!

These ornaments are made with glass tiles and have a ribbon to use as an ornament. They are 7/8" square. You can use them as a pendant instead!

Find all of my new ornaments listed in my online shop.

To Enter to Win this Cool Ornament:

Get a chance for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Tweet about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Share on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above or write whatever you want.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.)
Note: if you need help commenting or aren't technological, just email me and I'll leave your comment for you!

That's 6 total chances! Winner will be chosen around 8:00 am Eastern tomorrow (Friday) morning!

I'll send along a freebie with each purchase today! Today's freebie is a heart glass tile pin!

To get the freebie, just make a purchase today using the coupon code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE. You'll get 20% off and a free pin!

UPDATE: We have a winner for this giveaway! I'm giving away prizes all week, so click "home" above and find the latest giveaway to enter!

Wonderful Wednesday - Free Digial Scrapbook Kit Download!

2011-11-02T19:08:00.001-04:00

It's Wonderful Wednesday!

Today I have a fun freebie for you to download!

I used one of the quick pages to make the page above. Then I added a blue ribbon from the kit across the bottom.

Click to download the free digital pack.

In this pack you get:

2 digital papers
4 page elements
2 quick pages

If you are interested in the My Memories Digital Scrapbook Suite software, I have a $10 off coupon code. Plus after you purchase the software you get $10 to spend in their store. Use code STMMMS70060 (cut and paste the code to make sure you get it right!) You can get the software for just $29.97 with the code.

Check in next week to get another great freebie pack!

Art Every Day - Day 2

2011-11-02T11:59:00.001-04:00

Day 2 of Art Every Day Month

Virtual Open House III - Day 3

2011-11-02T08:03:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Day 3 of the Virtual Open House

To get the details of what's going on here, see the Welcome to the B.B. Bellezza Open House post.

--Each day this week there is a new giveaway!

--Each day this week there is a new freebie to go along with your purchase from the B.B. Bellezza online shop!

--Get 20% off in my online shop by using the code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE when checking out. (Click on coupon code and enter the code.)

Today's Giveaway:

Artwork Pendant with Cord

Made with the artwork of Jennifer Gordon (you can find more of her work at http://www.JenniferGordonArt.com )

To Enter to win the Giveaway:

Simply leave a comment below and indicate which you would prefer to win! If you don't have an account, you can leave your comment anonymously. Just make sure to leave your email so that I can get a hold of you!

Get extra entries for doing any of the following. For each item you complete, leave a separate comment:

Get a chance for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Tweet about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Share on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.)
NOTE: if you are not internet savvy, just email me and I'll put your comment up for you! Don't stress!

Winner will be chosen tomorrow morning (Thursday) around 8:00 am Eastern or so, so feel free to enter until then!

Freebie:

Free with any purchase from my online shop today (11/5/11):

Hardware Earrings! ($10 value!)

Earrings may vary

Discount:

Don't forget to use this coupon code to get 20% off in my online shop all week VIRTUALOPENHOUSE

Click on "coupon code" and enter the code when checking out.

Good luck!

(Note: discount and freebies are for my online etsy shop If you wish to purchase a tutorial with the discount, please purchase from my etsy shop and use the coupon code there.)

Good Luck!

UPDATE: This giveaway is closed, but make sure to look for more giveaways each day!

Art Every Day - Day 1

2011-11-01T10:00:00.001-04:00

When we visited the American Visionary Art Museum about a month ago, I was truly inspired by the art.

I had this feeling that people can can make any sort of art, in any sort of circumstance. People do it all the time. People can be inspired in prison. People make amazing things out of matchsticks. People use whatever than can to make beautiful inspired work.

I decided that I wanted to make something out of a material that I love - just for the sake of the art itself. It's not to sell and not for anyone else. Well, it's not for anyone else except for the fact that I hope you might also be inspired to make your own art.

I have just recently started to consider myself an actual "artist." I don't think of myself as an artist in the traditional sense, though. I have no formal training. I hated art classes in high school. (Although I don't think they were "art" classes so much.) I just do what feels right to me and is close to the inspiration I originally had.

And, something that has nothing at all to do with jewelry. (At least for the time-being. You can make artistic jewelry, for sure!)

This idea I had started out as an idea for an installation in my booth at Building Character. I had this vision of buttons - thousands of buttons - hanging from the rafters to create a sky of blue. Then more buttons hanging to form clouds. And I kept dreaming from there . . .

Now that I am writing it, it is sounding like a wonderful idea again, of course!! But when it came time to actually figure out the logistics of how to accomplish it, in my actual (not dream) life, with my time constrictions, it just didn't seem plausible for me at this time.

But I came up with another idea that stemmed from the original idea.

I will be working on this art project each day for Art Every Day Month. I hope that I can complete it in a month, but I don't know how long it will take since I have never done what I am doing, nor have I ever seen anyone else do what I am planning.

I'll take it day - by - day.

Follow my progress here on my blog - I'll be posting photos every day! Participate yourself as well! Let me know in the comments and I'll come see your progress, too!

This is day one, step one. My blank "canvas"

Note: I need a lot more blue and green buttons (particularly blue!) If you have to have any blue or green buttons laying around that you can't or won't use - they don't have to be anything special or any special size or shad - let me know. If you're in the Lancaster area and have ideas where to get buttons on the cheap, please let me know!

Virtual Open House III Day 2

2011-11-01T08:07:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the Virtual Open House III - Day 2

For more information about what's going on here this week, see yesterday's post.

First, the winner from yesterday's giveaway is Brenda!

Congratulations!

Today's Giveaway:

Hardware Bracelet

Hardware Necklace and Bracelet Tutorial

Winner gets to choose whether they would like a hardware bracelet or if they would prefer to learn to make one themselves.

To Enter:
Simply leave a comment below and indicate which you would prefer to win! If you don't have an account, you can leave your comment anonymously. Just make sure to leave your email so that I can get a hold of you!

Get extra entries for doing any of the following. For each item you complete, leave a separate comment:

Get a chance for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Tweet about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Share on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.)
NOTE: if you are not internet savvy, just email me and I'll put your comment up for you! Don't stress!

Winner will be chosen tomorrow morning around 8:00 am Eastern or so!

FREEBIE:

Get this freebie with any purchase from my online shop today:

Free cord of your choice! Choose black, white, natural, dark brown or pink in the length of your choice. (If you don't make a choice, you'll receive 18" black cord.) Just leave a note when you're checking out of your preference.

Discount:

Don't forget to use this coupon code to get 20% off in my online shop all week VIRTUALOPENHOUSE

Click on "coupon code" and enter the code when checking out.

Good luck!

(Note: discount and freebies are for my online etsy shop only. If you wish to purchase a tutorial with the discount, please purchase from my etsy shop and put the discount code in there.)

UPDATE: Comments are now closed for this giveaway, but giveaways are happening every day this week 10/31/2010 - 11-6-11!

Book Review: Little Bee by Chris Cleave

2011-10-31T16:29:00.002-04:00

I just finished reading Little Bee by Chris Cleave.

I am like this with a lot of books, but I really didn't want this one to end. I wanted to follow along with each of the characters and follow them for the rest of their lives.

This is a novel full of truths, set in the United Kingdom, but can easily translate for the United States.

It is a beautiful story of 2 woman who meet and then their lives intersection again 2 years later. I know that description is so generic and this story is anything but generic!! But, I simply will not tell you anymore or else it will ruin the book. Do not ruin the book by reading the reviews on amazon. Also, the blurb about the book says that the book is funny and the scene on the African beach is horrific. Both are true, in a sense. This book is not a riot. There are moments in it that may be funny, but this would be a drama if it were a movie, not a comedy.

The beauty is in how the story unfolds, and I don't want to take that from you. The book is captivating and well written.

I must say, the reason that I even picked up the book to begin with is because of the mysterious blurb on the back. I figured it was a gimmick, but it ended up that it is so true! I don't want to ruin the book by telling you too much.

I will say I highly recommend this captivating book and that you will not be able to put it down once you start!

{I just added a page to my blog called "books I love"! More will be added soon!}

Welcome to B.B. Bellezza Virtual Open House III

2011-10-31T05:00:00.007-04:00

Welcome!

Hi! Welcome to the home of B.B. Bellezza and the Virtual Open House!

If you would like to learn more about me and how I got started, you can find that information on the about page.

I make green handcrafted jewelry, rag dolls and digital tutorials. Digital tutorials, which I sell, are on my tutorials page (or this week to get a discount, make sure to purchase them from my etsy shop green tutorials section and use the coupon code below.)

For free tutorials, head over to my free tutorials page.

I believe strongly in preserving the Earth, and regularly post tips for greener living and how to reuse or recycle certain items, on my blog. My tutorials are all about reusing items usually, too.

Virtual Open House

If you have been to either of the previous Virtual Open Houses here, this one is a little different! Usually it's one crazy frenzy of a night. This time, it's for the entire week!

10/31/11 - 11/6/11

How it works:

Starting today, there will be a giveaway right here every day. To enter to win, just leave a comment and make sure I have a way to get a hold of you if you win! (Click on comment below the individual blog post with the giveaway and then write your comment. If you don't have an account to log in with, just leave your comment anonymously and make sure to include your email address.)

You just have one day to enter to win each giveaway because the following morning, I will announce the winner and list another giveaway!

Get extra chances to win by tweeting about the giveaway with a link, joining my facebook page, or for sharing on your facebook wall.

Every day I'll be giving away a different freebie with any purchase from my online shop - I'll let you know what the freebie is each morning.

All week long you get 20% off in my online shop!! Just use the code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE when checking out to take advantage of the deal!

Any questions along the way, email me, tweet me or leave me a comment on facebook and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

I think this is going to be more fun and give more people a chance to win! Plus, there are all kinds of freebies for anyone to get!

Here we go....

Monday, Day 1 Giveaway

Hardware Earrings

Hardware Earrings with Bead Tutorial

Winner chooses whether they would like the earrings or an eBook tutorial to learn how to make the earrings themselves.

To Enter:

Simply leave a comment below and indicate which you would prefer to win! If you don't have an account, you can leave your comment anonymously. Just make sure to leave your email so that I can get a hold of you!

Get extra entries for doing any of the following. For each item you complete, leave a separate comment:

Get a chance for joining my facebook page. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment saying that.
Tweet about this giveaway. Please make sure to include a link to this website. Here's an example tweet you could use: I just entered to win the giveaway from @BBBellezza at http://www.BBBellezza.com There's a new giveaway each day this week!
Share on your facebook wall. You can use the same example from above.
Join my newsletter, or leave a comment letting me know that you already are a subscriber. (Make sure you're leaving the same email address that you are subscribed with.)

That's 6 total chances! Winner will be chosen tomorrow morning!

Freebie!

Free with any purchase today is:

Scrabble Tile Magnet (Magnets will vary depending upon my supply.)

To get this freebie, make a purchase in my online shop any time between now and tomorrow morning. (Tomorrow a new freebie will be announced.) Everyone who makes a purchase gets this freebie!

Don't forget, get 20% off in my shop the entire week, too! Use code VIRTUALOPENHOUSE when checking out. (click on coupon code and enter the code)

Good Luck!

UPDATE: This giveaway and Day 1 are now closed! Congratulations to Brenda!

The fun continues all week!!

Tuesday, Day 2 Giveaway and Freebie
Wednesday Day 3 Giveaway and Freebie
Thursday, Day 4 Giveaway and Freebie
Friday, Day 5 Giveaway and Freebie
Saturday, Day 6 Giveaway and Freebie

Virtual Open House III Starting Monday, October 31, 2011

2011-10-29T11:59:00.000-04:00

Please join me for Virtual Open House III! Just in time to get great deals for your holiday shopping!

If you have participated in the previous virtual open houses, this is going to be a little different from the previous Open Houses. Instead of one crazy night, it's going to held over the week.

Each day I there will be a different door prize offered here on my blog. Just pop over here each day to see the prize and enter to win.

There will be a 20% discount for the entire week. (Coupon code will be listed on Monday!)

Each day there will a different freebie with your purchase!

On Saturday, there will be a grand prize. Everyone who entered throughout the week + everyone who made a purchase throughout the week + entries for that day will be entered to win.

Winners of each daily door prize will be announced the next day and a new prize will be available to win.

Any questions, let me know: BBBellezza@hotmail.com

NOTE: This is virtual - you don't have to be anywhere at any special time, just come back here during the week! ♥

If you plan to stop by, I would love if you would indicate you are on my facebook event to help spread the word.

Don't Throw Out that Broken Mirror! (and don't recycle it either)

2011-10-28T09:08:00.000-04:00

I recently did a post about ways to reuse glass, which reminded me that American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, MD showcases the work of mirror artist Bob Benson.

The tree above is his work, as well as other pieces throughout the museum.

We had the pleasure of meeting him when we visited the museum recently. He was explaining his Flatulence Post installation at the museum. Yes, flatulence. Farts are always funny, I don't care what you say. Lighten up!

Photography isn't allowed inside the museum, but you can check out the Flatulence Post on the artist's website. It's much funnier with the sound effects in person! There was an actual farting contest that was recorded, which you can relive by pressing a button on the Flatulence Post. Also, check out the artist rendering of different farts such as the "Chinese Firecracker Fart", the "Bottom Blast", the "Tuttie Fruitie" or the "Limburger Special."

(I must say, I never did think I would be discussing farts on this blog, but, here we are....)

Back to recycling....

You cannot actually recycle mirror. In fact, you can ruin a whole bin of recycling if you throw the mirror in with the glass that can actually be recycled. So, the best thing to do with mirrors is to reuse them.

I can't think of a better way to reuse mirror than by making a mirror tree!

If you want to scale it down a little - perhaps you don't want to create an entire mirror tree - be inspired by Bob Benson's tree and create a mobile, or a string of mirrors, to hang in your window.

Design - A - Doll!

2011-10-27T14:35:00.000-04:00

I have been making dolls for quite a little while now and I love it.

Things I love about rag dolls:

I love picking out the fabric for their outfits
I love embellishing their outfits.
I love reusing old clothes or using up fabric scraps that would go to waste to make something so sweet and cool.
I love it when little girls love my zombie dolls - I love that they are so cool that they know that they are zombies!

My favorite memory was when my nephew asked me for a boy zombie doll, which I made him for his birthday.

You see, I made my own pattern so I change my own pattern all the time. I only made girls up until that time. Caleb wants a boy, I made him a boy!

(He loved it, by the way!)

That's the cool thing about this tutorial, too. There is a pattern included. But I take you step-by-step through making a doll from actually designing and drafting a pattern! It's completely customizable.

You can use any fabric - even old clothing. Make memory dolls to remember those who have passed. Use your children's favorite clothing that doesn't fit them anymore. The ideas and possibilities are really endless!

Design-A-Doll Tutorial Details:

Skills:

You need to know how to sew. I am a self-taught sewer and I only really learn new sewing skills as they are required for me to finish a project. You'll need to know how to sew in a straight line and go around a curve for the head. You'll have to hand-sew the head closed.

You'll need:

Sewing machine
Thread
Needle
Embroidery floss and needle OR paint (for face)
Fabric - for body and hair (I often use felt for hair)
Buttons (for zombie doll)
Any embellishments for your doll - lace, ribbon, etc.
Stuffing - poly fiberfill

With this tutorial eBook you'll learn how to design a doll, draft the pattern and put it all together. You'll also get a pattern (like my zombie dolls) to help you if you get stuck.

You'll want to make dolls over and over again!

You get all of this for $15!

I know you can do this! Come out of your cocoon and emerge creatively!

Purchase for instant access here:

Wonderful Wednesday - Free Digial Scrapbook Kit Download!

2011-10-26T19:59:00.000-04:00

My Memories Freebie!

Kit includes:

2 Digital Papers
5 Page Elements
2 Quick Pages

Click the link above to download your freebie!

I can't tell you how much fun and how useful My Memories Software Suite has been for me in the short time I have had the software. The header on this blog? I made it with My Memories. The new cover images for my tutorials were also made with the My Memories software!

Plus, the My Memories folks are so helpful. If you have a question, just post it on the My Memories facebook page and someone will answer it immediately. Either another user or the My Memories staff. I had a problem last night with my software. Completely my fault, nothing to do with the software. I contacted tech support and they patiently told me how to fix the problem right away!

Check in here next Wednesday to get another freebie!

(Full Disclosure, I am an affiliate for My Memories, which means if you purchase it with my code, I get compensation. I would not recommend this product if I didn't love it. In fact, I'm completely addicted to this software!)

New Tutorial Available: Glass Tile Pendants

2011-10-25T08:00:00.004-04:00

Now available over on the Tutorials page, available for instant download, Glass Tile Pendant Tutorial!

This pendant is completely customizable! Use any paper you want! Even photos. This is one of my most popular pieces of jewelry because of that reason. I get custom orders all the time.

You don't need any special jewelry-making skills or even any special tools to make these pendants! Just a little imagination to pick out some cool paper! I'll tell you where to easily get everything else in the tutorial.

Perfect for Holiday gifts (and you still have 2 months to make them!), craft shows, other gifts, scout projects, etc.!! Use them for fundraisers!

Are you ready to make one-of-a-kind jewelry?

Just click on add to cart and for just $5 you'll instantly receive the tutorial and be able to start making amazing jewelry.

Purchase for instant download for just $5

Terms of use:

Feel free to use this tutorial to make pendants for profit and to teach the techniques in this tutorial.

Please do not, however, resell this tutorial or share with other teachers. Have the teacher purchase this tutorial directly.

Thanks for understanding!

15 Ways to Reuse Glass Bottles

2011-10-24T21:02:00.000-04:00

I have been addicted to glass jars and bottles for a little while now. Obviously, I am a crafter, so I mostly use my bottles and jars for storage of buttons, beads, washers and other little parts. I also put pens, markers, scissors and paintbrushes.

To reuse glass bottles and jars, clean them out thoroughly prior to using them in any of the following projects.

Here are 15 great ways to reuse glass:

1. Put them on a tree!

Legend of bottle trees:

According to Wikipedia, Glass bottle trees originated in Northern Africa. Superstitious people believed that a genii or imp could be captured in a glass bottle. Legend had it that empty glass bottles placed outside the home could the evil spirits at night, and it would be destroyed the next day in the sunshine. The practice of hanging bottles in trees became widespread first in the Southern states of the United States and now more widespread, where they continue to be used today as colorful garden ornaments.

2. Use them in mosaic art.

One of the most amazing and beautiful examples of this is at Philadelphia's Magic Gardens.

click on the photo to go to my entire set from Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

3. Use them as vases. You can use beer bottles, wine bottles, old spaghetti sauce jars or any other glass bottle.

Here's a cutely decorated vase tutorial:

Paper and Ribbon Water Bottle Vase Tutorial

4. Use as a candler holder. Put a taper candle in an old wine bottle or put a votive or tea light in an old mason jar or cleaned out spaghetti jar.

5. Make "gifts in a jar." There are tons of books and recipes out there. Basically you layer all the dry ingredients of a baked good or soup (and many other things), tie on the recipe and give it as a gift.

6. Use for storage for your office or for crafts. Separate out small items - paperclips and thumbtacks for your office or buttons or beads for your crafting supplies.

7. Make terrariums!

How to make a terrarium from a repurposed glass bottle.

8. Reuse your glass bottles and jars as drinking glasses.

9. Put a pump on top and use as a soap dispenser.

10. Reuse your glass bottles to make an oil lamp.

11. Make sand art.

12. Use them as windows in your home.

13. 13 Coolest Things Made from Glass Bottles from the Daily Green

(The above photo is from that post.)

14. Keep your collections in jars: marbles, buttons, etc.

15. Reuse a baby jar to make a cool pin cushion.

I hope I've inspired you to reuse glass bottles! What do you do with your glass bottles? Are you going to try any of these now?

Edgar Allan Poe

2011-10-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

The boundaries which divide Life from Death are at best shadowy and vague. Who shall say where the one ends, and where the other begins? ~ Edgar Allan Poe

Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before. ~ Edgar Allan Poe

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered weak and weary. ~ Edgar Allan Poe

{For more information about the software I used to make these pages & an exclusive discount to purchase it, head over here.}

Eco-Friendly Fabric Tassel Garland Tutorial

2011-10-22T16:23:00.001-04:00

This tassel garland is fully customizable. Use old worn out clothes and it's eco-friendly as well.

I saw Prudent Baby's tutorial and decided to try it out myself!

Materials:

A variety of coordinating fabrics

Ribbon, lace or string

Tools:

Scissors

Step #1

Cut your fabric into squares or rectangles. You can make your tassels any size you would like. Cut the fabric twice as long as the length you want your tassels to hang.

My fabric was about 16" x 16", but varied because I was using worn out clothing and fabric leftovers, so I had to cut around holes and sleeves, etc.

IDEA: You can certainly buy fabric to use in this project, but to make it more eco-friendly, use worn out clothes or other leftover fabrics.

Step #2

Fold your fabric in half.

Step #3

Make slits in your folded fabric about an inch or so apart, stopping about an inch or so before getting to the fold.

Step #4

Unfold your fabric.

Step #5

From the middle, roll your fabric.

This is what you'll end up with.

Step #6

Fold your rolled up fabric in half.

Step #7

Cut a small strip (or use a scrap) of the same fabric and tie it around the top.

Step #8

Repeat for all of your fabrics.

Step #9

Slide your tassels on ribbon or string. I used lace, mainly because I have so much of it. You could also tie the tassels on with another scrap, but I just slide them directly onto the lace.

Step #10

Enjoy your new tassel garland!

My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Software Winner! + Learn How to Get a Discount if You Didn't Win

2011-10-19T20:21:00.000-04:00

So I put all the entries in a big bowl, closed my eyes, mixed 'em up and we got a winner!

Congratulations to Connie! I'll be forwarding you information on how to get your free software download soon!

Thanks to everyone who participated!

MY MEMORIES DISCOUNT:

You can still get the software for $10 off!! Find it here My Memories Scrapbooking Software and use code STMMMS70060 when you check out. Plus, use the code to get $10 off in the My Memories store. ($10 goes a LONG way in the My Memories store!)

That's $20 off!!

Make sure to use the code above (STMMMS70060) to get the discount.

FREEBIES:

Every Wednesday will be "Wonderful Wednesday" here at B.B. Bellezza!

What's that? I'm glad you asked.

I'll be offering a freebie from My Memories for you to use! They are 2 page layouts and include 2 quick pages and all the pieces (papers and elements) used to create the pages.

Our first freebie:

Click here to get your My Memories freebie.

Please leave a comment with a link to your creations with freebie! I would love to see them!

Check in next Wednesday for another freebie!

Website Kick Start

2011-10-19T08:00:00.003-04:00

I highly recommend anything from Tara Gentile. Earlier this year I took an e-course from her. She is an amazing teacher who is truly inspiring. She wants you to succeed and you can tell.

Everything Tara does is sure to leave you with inspiration and energy to take whatever the next step is!

This is the last time she's offering this course this year, so hurry and sign up before it's too late! There's less than a week left to grab a seat in the last Website Kick Start of 2011.

Why commit to learning how to build a website before the end of the year?

Because this is a skill that's going to serve you for years to come.
Because your business deserves better than "some day."
Because what you have isn't cutting it anymore.

Why commit to reexamining your web presence before the end of 2011?

Because this isn't just about code & pixels, this is about reexamining the way you market your business & communicate your vision.
Because this about you, your customer, and building a community.
Because 2012 is going to start with a bang.

Why have others committed to Website Kick Start?

"The skills I learned in Tara's Website Kick Start course have taken me from visualizing a beautiful website to actually creating one and tweaking another to represent my custom brand.

I learned so much from her clear, accessible, fun lessons helping me to really understand the ins and outs of my site. Not to mention, the support is AMAZING. All of my questions (large and small) were answered thoroughly and in a speedy turnaround time. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend taking this class and taking ownership of your website!"
-- L'Erin Asantewaa

Whether this is a goal you had all year long... or one that finally looks feasible, this is your chance to get a website you love at the fraction of the cost of hiring a designer or developer.

And you keep these skills for life.

Are you ready to kick start your website? Click on, my friend, click on.

Tuesday Tip For Greener Living: Houseplants

2011-10-18T21:04:00.000-04:00

Houseplants are great for making your house for bringing nature inside and making everything a little prettier. But houseplants also can get rid of the pollutants in your house.

Follow these guidelines from Life Tips to make your houseplants work for you:

• Keep one houseplant per every 10 square yards to help keep the air clean in that area;

• If you mix night synthesizing plants (like orchids) with regular plants, your plants will work around the clock to filter your air;

• Use a general mixture of plants to try to filter out as many pollutants as possible;

Different plants are good for different pollutants, for example:

• Philodendrons and aloe plants are especially good protection against formaldehyde; and

• Gerbera daisies, peace lily, and English ivy are good protection against benzene and trichloroethylen.

I'll Choose Love

2011-10-17T11:31:00.000-04:00

I have been angry for awhile.

Angry at people.

Angry at my situation.

Angry at the world.

Mostly, angry at myself.

Recently I have been reading and listening to some of the most joyful and peaceful people I have ever heard.

I want that joy and peace for myself. I no longer want to choose to be angry.

I’ve been participating in Oprah’s life class. One thing (among many things) that I got from it last week is that there are only 2 real emotions: Love and Fear. Every other emotion stems from one of these 2.

I 'll choose love.

I do feel love towards people around me, in the work that I do for my business, in planning my wedding in taking care of my house (you know, doing dishes, cleaning the toilet), etc. Well, I have been trying to think that way with the house, anyway.

Anger is exhausting. Anger wears me out. Anger gives you wrinkles, which I do not want.

I'll choose love.

I have a day job. I do, in fact, enjoy the line of work I am. My problem lies in that I don't like being cooped up all day. If I want to take a walk down the street to get a soda, I can’t. Or, I can’t without being accountable to 2 bosses, a receptionist and probably getting a ton of dirty looks from co-workers. I don’t like to work against my own natural instincts of when I should get up, what tasks I should be doing, where I should do the work. You know, all the things that go along with actually having a job and getting paid for it.

I understand and genuinely like the people I work for and with. However, we are on completely different wavelengths. It’s difficult to explain. I would say I work in an intelligence-based office. I work with extremely smart people. Yes, I am smart, too, but it’s there is a difference. My life worth and work isn’t as based on how intelligent I am, per se. It’s not based on how much education I have or what experience I have dealing with a certain facet of information. I don’t feel like I am competing to prove that I am earning my keep in the world by being the smartest or knowing the most. Instead, creativity and art are the things that interest me most. They think with their heads, I use my heart more and I think it just causes a slight communication misfire every so often.

{That last paragraph is sort of a lie. I want that last paragraph to be true, but it’s not. I do worry about how intelligent I seem to other people and even more so to my bosses. I continued college simply to have an education at any cost. I want to change these thoughts.}

I have times of the day that I have high energy, and times when I am low in energy and the time of these energy shifts change constantly. At my day job I obviously have to work and produce either way.

I do get it, they are paying me and I need to work. I think a different – less controlling - system would work better for me and a lot of people who have jobs.

Unfortunately, it can be really difficult for me to get through my work some days. Fortunately on other days, it’s a breeze.

What I do love about my job is that I am providing for my family. I am helping give us shelter, food, electric, etc. I like helping our clients at work. They couldn’t do what we are helping them with, and my boss couldn’t accomplish the tasks without me. As weird as I know this will sound, I actually love shuffling around papers, stapling them, organizing them and figuring out what the next step is in a case.

(If you haven’t guessed yet, I’m a paralegal.)

It can still be a major drag some days.

Instead of letting fear and anger rule my days like they have been lately, today I have been trying to change my thought process.

I made a bunch of copies and realized I made a mistake and had to reprint and recopy everything. I started to get angry at myself, then angry at my boss who also missed the mistake and then angry at the copy machine.

Then I stopped. I looked for the love in the situation.

This client could not do what I am doing for her without my help. I specifically am here right in this moment to help her. She had loss her father and we’re helping her finalize his estate.

So I thought loving thoughts. Wiped away a tear of sympathy for the client because she lost her father not even 3 months ago, and I redid the copies out of love for her and her father.

I will tell you, it really changed my morning.

{{Update, I actually had to redo these papers at least 2 more times!!}}

There will be times that I am going to really struggle to find the love in the situation. In the copy situation it was pretty easy, but mostly I have much more intense communications with people throughout the day where it will be pretty difficult.

No matter what else happens – no matter how frustrated or angry I become – I will try to remember, I am here out of love for my family and out of love for fellow humans who need me to help them.

If you try, you’ll probably be able to find the love in most situations, even if it feels a little far fetched or forced at the time.

I can be sensitive and emotional. I’m honest. This combination can get the best of me. If I am upset, you will most certainly know. I don’t want to necessarily take my honest emotions away. It’s part of who I am. But, if I can react honestly in love, I do believe it will change my life.

I had a breakthrough why I hang on to anger. I use it as a crutch from failure. I tell myself it’s not my fault I failed because look at how all these people upset and hurt me. Look at what I’m dealing with. It’s hard to believe I can accomplish anything dealing with all this stuff.

Well, I’m calling shenanigans on the whole thing. I can’t control what people say or do. I can’t control how they react to me. They may say something hurtful or mean and quite possibly they may be right. But I don’t have to let the anger rule my life.

I am not going to anymore.

I'll choose love.

I hope that you will all join me in trying this. There is a ton of hurt in the world. A lot of people who don’t even think that anyone loves them. Kids who are abused. Grandparents who have been abandoned. People who have lost their jobs and their hope.

I know that I will loose my way and choose anger from time to time. I am forgiving myself now for that and I am going to do my very best to choose love over anger.

I would prefer to be a shining light rather than a black hole, and I believe I will make better art, be a much happier, better person if I choose love not fear.

Are you with me??
_________________________________
Remember to enter the Digital Scrapbooking Giveaway by My Memories by Tuesday! Learn more about my experiences, what it can do (and it can do A LOT) and comment to enter!

MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Software Giveaway!!

2011-10-12T20:14:00.003-04:00

-> The Giveaway is now closed. Thanks to all who participated! Please read about my experience here. You can still get the discount mentioned below, too!

Each Wednesday check in for Wonderful Wednesdays to get a free download from My Memories! <-

Scrapbooking:

I started scrapbooking at a young age. I remember when I was in elementary school – in 3^rd or 4^th grade – I was a pom pom girl. (Basically a cheerleader. We did a halftime show during the pee wee football game.) My mom suggested that I start a scrapbook. Back then scrapbooking was not at all what it is now. I basically used an album with sticky pages, cut out newspaper clippings, ribbons and whatever I felt was important at the time and then put the plastic back over the page.

As I got older and the scrapbooking supplies got better, so did my scrapbooks. I have more than 20 scrapbooks for the first 25ish years of my life.

Then I started to get really busy. I would save bits and pieces of things that I would someday scrapbook in a drawer. I had probably close to 10 years of stuff in various places. When I moved about 10 months ago to a much smaller place, I went through and got rid of a lot of that stuff and the rest got put in boxes and put into storage.

I rarely even print photos these days. To think, I was the person who would never switch from film cameras and boycotted digital. Yes, I still love film cameras. I still have one. I just rarely use it.

Digital:

Now most of everything I do is digital. My photos are on flickr and I share them on facebook, too. We order tickets for events online so we don’t have the cute ticket stubs anymore. I don’t have the time – or the room – to collect things, have photos printed and spend a day on a 2 page scrapbook layout anymore. I think that people who still do are amazing. (If I really wanted to devote that much time anymore I would – the time thing is a cop out. I just use my time differently these days.)

Take a lot of photos. Sometimes over 250 per week. Sometimes even more. I rarely print them. I'm happy if I just get them on my flickr photostream or share them on facebook. I have thousands of photos on my computer.

I'll be honest, I was skeptical about trying digital scrapbooking. I was really interested, but I didn't think I would really like it.

Boy was I wrong!! My Memories digital scrapbooking software is the perfect solution for me. Let me tell you, digital scrapbooking is awesome!

It’s easy, it’s quick. I don’t have to dig through photos, paper, embellishments, pens, scissors, etc. In fact, I don’t have to store everything. I don’t have to put off scrapbooking because I forgot that I ran out of glue dots.

It’s all on your computer, right at your fingertips. Plus when you want new background paper or embellishments, you just go to the My Memories online store for instant download! Instant gratification.

My photos are all on my computer, too. So it works great!

How it works:

To my surprise, it is so easy to use! You can even create an entire album with one click!

At first, I used one of the free layouts that came with the software. I just picked it, opened it and clicked on the spots where the photos were to insert photos. Add a little journaling and I was done.

You can see my AVAM post to see my first layouts. Here's one page:

This is my FIRST try! See how easy it is!

I have since downloaded freebies from MyMemories and made some purchases as well.

This is an example of a layout I actually made from scratch. I chose the background, the embellishments, the layout of the photos, etc.

I haven't even scratched the surface here! You can make interactive albums with videos and music! You save the album and then decide what to do with it. You can make books for your family, friends, etc.

Here's a video from My Memories to learn more about what you can actually do with the software:

I can't wait to use with with my wedding photos in May! Think of the awesome personalized Christmas presents you can make. (You know the grandparents are waiting for photos! Think how impressed and excited they would be with a book, or a calendar!)

If you have problems, don’t worry, they have tons of tutorials to help you through!

My new blog header was made using My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Suite!

GIVEAWAY!!

The folks at My Memories have given me the opportunity to give away a free copy of their digital scrapbooking software!

To enter, just leave me a comment below. Comment about anything about scrapbooking – have you done it before, are you new, why do you want to try it, etc. Anything, really! Click on “comments” and type. Make sure that you enter your email address (if you don’t have a google account and are leaving an anonymous comment, please make sure to put your email address in your comment so I can get a hold of you if you win!)

----> UPDATE:

Extra chances:

Receive an extra chance by heading over to MyMemories and picking out your favorite digital paper pack and commenting here with the link.
Tweet about this and leave a separate comment to let me know you did.
Fan MyMemories on facebook (you're gonna want to anyway! They have lots of fun events and lots of freebies!!) and leave a comment that you did or already are a fan
Fan B.B. Bellezza on facebook and leave a comment that you did or you're already a fan

Every Wednesday I will be giving away a My Memories freebie to add to your scrapbooking! Yep. Right here. Every week!

If you don’t win, or can't wait to get started, I have a great deal for you:

To Enter the giveaway:

Leave your comment below to be entered to win free software! I’ll choose the winner next Wednesday evening, October 19^th around 7 pm. (Also there will be freebies for everyone that day!!)

Good Luck!!

Being Engaged - Online

2011-10-10T21:53:00.000-04:00

It's weird how much technology has taken over our lives. I was watching a show the other day. (I won't say which one because I don't want to admit I watch this particular show.) The character's boyfriend changed his facebook status to "single" and she was so upset because that meant their relationship was "officially" over. We laugh, but there is a point here.

When you do something like change your status on facebook, depending on your facebook settings, it's public. But even if you keep everything private on facebook, all of your friends will be notified at the same time of the change.

I have been engaged for a little while now. I actually debated whether to change my status on facebook to "engaged" or not. I figured I would just wait until we're married and change my status then. But, I'm really excited to be getting married and am really in the thick of planning the wedding and reception and I won't be "engaged" for long, so why not change my status!?!

Plus, now that it's on facebook, it's official.

There are people who are acquaintances or people I know online who won't be at the wedding but I still want to share my joy with them. I am also a believer of community and this diy wedding of mine is going to take a lot of people helping me, some in really simple ways and some in bigger ways. You never know what someone may suggest that I wouldn't have considered or someone to help me that I didn't even know. This recently happened with vendors.

Plus, I am just really freaking excited!! We have been together for 9 years! Yep, 9! I'm actually more concerned about people questioning why on earth we would decide to suddenly get married. (By the way, it wasn't sudden at all!)

So, after 9 years of unwedded happiness, Jim and I have decided to share our love and joy with our loved ones.

Now that it's on my website, it's really official!

{now you also know my excuses for not blogging regularly!}

All Stocked Up!

2011-10-04T19:59:00.000-04:00

Over the last few days I stocked up my booth at BUiLDiNG CHARACTER!

I added Halloween Scrabble Tile Pendants, Scrabble Tile Rings and Domino Pins:

I added these whimsical Paris scrabble tile pendants:

And funky bird pendants:

Plus, Artwork Pendants from Fair Rosamund!

Also, I have just one chandelier crystal pendant. This one features the Wizard of Oz. (More are coming soon!)

That's just a few of the many new things available at my booth now!

Stop by my booth at BUiLDiNG CHARACTER, 342 N. Queen Street, Rear Warehouses.

My booth is in the warehouse to the left when you enter, the 2nd right, 3rd booth on the right.

Hours: M-F 11-6, Sat 11-5, Sun 12-5. The first and third Friday of each month open later for lots of festivities!

See you there!

B.B. Bellezza Handcrafted Jewelry and Tutorials

Feel Great About Completing a Project.

52 Weeks of Handmade Earrings - Week 3

Sneak Peek at New Hardware Line

New Tutorial Available: Love Hand Sewn Fabric Cuff Bracelet

New Tutorial Available: Fabric Cuff Tutorial

Subscribe to our mailing list

5 Environmentally Friendly Ways to Purchase Clothes

Subscribe to our mailing list

52 Weeks of Handmade Earrings

The Beginning of My Goddess Year

Fabric Flower Tutorial

Sale and New Year Update

How to Use Recycled Clothing in Craft Projects

Email Marketing Kickstart by Tara Gentile - Review

What to do with old clothing?

12 More Ways to Reuse Glass

2011 Christmas Shipping Deadlines (and Custom Order Deadlines)

Where Will B.B. Bellezza Be This Weekend?

Reuse Glass Jars: Memorabilia Specimen Jars

Review of the book, The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Colonial Theatre Fundraiser Art Pendants

How To Use Coupon Codes on Etsy

Personalized Custom Gifts

My Memories Giveaway

Tuesday Tip for Greener Living: Buy Used

Grand Prize Winner!

New Ornament Collection

Virtual Open House III - Day 6! Grand Prize Giveaway!

Virtual Open House III Day 5

Art Every Day - Day 3

Virtual Open House III - Day 4

Wonderful Wednesday - Free Digial Scrapbook Kit Download!

Art Every Day - Day 2

Virtual Open House III - Day 3

Art Every Day - Day 1

Virtual Open House III Day 2

Book Review: Little Bee by Chris Cleave

Welcome to B.B. Bellezza Virtual Open House III

Virtual Open House III Starting Monday, October 31, 2011

Don't Throw Out that Broken Mirror! (and don't recycle it either)

Design - A - Doll!

Wonderful Wednesday - Free Digial Scrapbook Kit Download!

New Tutorial Available: Glass Tile Pendants

15 Ways to Reuse Glass Bottles

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