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Everyday Happenings and Updates at A Primitive Gift For Her
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3/2/2008
Feeling Sick and Missing Mom
1/31/2008
Pre-Order Dinnerware Category Added
1/26/2008
New Re-Ordered Category Added
1/25/2008
Foster Parent Class #2
1/22/2008
Sorting thru Inventory
The Wedding
10/1/2007
Six Days Away...
9/21/2007
Wedding Update
8/19/2007
I Can See the Light!
8/10/2007
All Kinds of Updates!
6/5/2007
Upcoming Wedding
5/12/2007
New Postage Rates
4/30/2007
Health Update
4/25/2007
Thank you for your patience
4/7/2007
A Few Tips for Internet Shopping
4/2/2007
Monthly Drawing
Upcoming Wedding
3/29/2007
Easter Goodies
3/27/2007
Several Items Added To On Sale Category
3/24/2007
How to Make Primitive Snowball Bowl Fillers
3/23/2007
How to Make Grubby Tags
How to Rust Items
How to Tea Stain Fabric
How to Make Gingerbread Dough Ornaments
How to Paint on Soap
3/14/2007
Limited Quantities of New Items
3/3/2007
Affordable Pricing
2/28/2007
Back from the Tradeshow!
2/21/2007
Shipping Lag
New Inventory Has Arrived!
2/19/2007
First Update
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Date: 3/2/2008
Title: Feeling Sick and Missing Mom
Hi All!
I was hoping to finish a Winter season without getting sick, but to no avail. Andy and I went for physicals on Monday and lo' and behold I end up getting sick on Friday...next time I visit the Dr's office, I am going to bring some of that antiseptic handwash or maybe just wear some rubber gloves as I am sure that is how I caught this flu bug.
No worries though, all orders placed over the weekend will ship tomorrow.
When I am feeling a bit better (hopefully, by the end of the week) I have loads of new inventory to add and I do hope you'll pop back on and browse next weekend. Lots of great new items!
I wonder why...no matter how old you are...you still want your mother when you are sick. I've been missing my mom terribly the past few days...and even though it will be 15 years since she's been gone next month...it still hurts as much as the day she died. They say time heals all wounds...well, I don't know about that...I think that it may dull them a bit, but just a few memories can bring the pain of missing her right back to the forefront.
Let me tell you a little bit about my mom. She was very outgoing and would talk to anyone. She was extremely witty and also had the ability to make those she loved feel as if they were the most special person on earth.
As I was looking through an old suitcase filled with old photos tonight (and of course, the tears were flowing) I found her birth certificate, her Baptismal certificate as well as her marriage certificate to my dad. I also found a few other tidbits such as my Girl Scout membership card, an old newsletter from where my dad used to work and an old bible. As I was browsing through these items, I realized that if mom were still here...she would have LOVED to scrapbook! She was so creative...and 'official scrapbooking' didn't start until a few years after she died. It just makes me so sad that I could've shared something that I love to do with her...and she would have loved it just as much.
Even though I now live a 5 hours drive away from my hometown, nothing would have kept my mom from coming up to visit. We were very close after I had my son, Jared. But...I have to admit, before that during my teen years...our relationship was like vinegar and water...and that was only because I thought I knew everything although I didn't have a clue about anything!
If I could have one wish...it would be to spend just one more day with her doing the things we loved to do together like singing together to country songs on the car radio, going to tag sales, going out to lunch and even shopping at our local K-Mart. I miss you, Mom.
For those of you who are fortunate enough to still have your mom...give her an extra kiss the next time you see her just because you can.
Take care and have a great first week in March!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 1/31/2008
Title: Pre-Order Dinnerware Category Added
Hi All!
As promised (and thanks to Deb H. for reminding me!) I have added a special pre-order category for a line of dinnerware that will be in toward the end of February. These pieces are simply beautiful and depict a different primitive icon including hearts, stars, saltboxes and sheep. They are antique white in color with a black rim and pip berry greenery accents.
This set is a bit pricey, but I couldn't resist offering it because it is simply the most beautiful country dinnerware that I have found...and it will mix well with any country decor.
It is also very versatile...you can add less expensive solid color pieces in with your place settings to create a larger dinnerware set. For example, I know that Walmart has solid colors in mustard and red...maybe even black (I can't remember) and I plan on mixing four 4 piece plate settings of these in with my set when it arrives to bring down the total cost. This will make Andy happy too....lol!
I am also offering a special 20% discount on purchases of four 4 piece place settings or more if ordered by February 7. This discount will not show up on your invoice, but will be given manually when your order is processed.
Take care and enjoy your day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 1/26/2008
Title: New Re-Ordered Category Added
Hi Everyone!
There is nothing worse when shopping on a website, find an item you wish to purchase...only to click on it and find it is sold out...gosh, I hate it when that happens!
Anyway, I have created a new category called ReOrdered and have placed all the items currently out-of-stock in this category...so that when you browse through my items, you'll only find in stock items available. These items will be returned to their appropriate categories when the shipment arrives.
I hope this new idea will make your shopping at A Primitive Gift For Her more enjoyable.
Have a great day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 1/25/2008
Title: Foster Parent Class #2
Hello again (and a special hello to my Aunt Geraldine...I love you!)
Sometimes my blog is the only way my family and friends who live in Connecticut can keep up with the goings-on up here in New York...so here goes!
Our foster parent meeting on Tuesday went well. We left with an armful of paperwork to complete yet again!
That night when Andy and I were discussing what we learned, we didn't think we learned anything and that is was only a bunch of pyschological mumbo jumbo, but I realized the next day...they were trying to tell us that any child that is removed from their home for whatever reason is going to have some issues. After all, who wouldn't when being pulled from all that is familiar to them.
They also tried to show us that just because a child or children is removed from their home, that doesn't mean their parents are bad people. This was a bit hard for me when I think about child abuse and all the bad things...but in reality...for many of these parents who neglect their children and such...it really means that they just don't know HOW to parent. As is human nature, people learn by example...and if they don't have a good example in their young lives...how will they know what do to?
Although it is the hope of Andy and me to be able to adopt one of these children, caring for foster children is simply providing a stable and nurturing environment for them while their families get the help and support they need in order to be able to get their children back.
If any of you have ever fostered a child, email me at slfcollectibles@hughes.net and let me know some of your experiences if you will. After all, knowledge is power and I want to be able to make an informed decision when the time comes.
Thanks for listening...
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 1/22/2008
Title: Sorting thru Inventory
Just a quick note to let you know that I have been sorting through my inventory and finding things that I had forgotten I had ordered...or finding one or two of an item that I thought had been sold out.
Anyway, over the next week or so, I'll continue to add these items so if you see something you like and there are only one or two...grab it because I do not have any more in stock.
Also, I have found some prim country dinnerware that is simple, but beautiful and I want to be able to offer it to you as well because it is hard to find dishes in a country style. I have decided to offer it as a pre-order item because they won't be in until the end of February...(your credit card will not be charged until these items are shipped to you)...but this will help me decide how many place settings to order. I will probably create a Pre-Order category within the next day or so and add them...so definitely keep an eye out!
Talk soon.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 1/22/2008
Title: The Wedding
Hi All!
So sorry it's taken me this long to write about our wedding...as you can imagine it was a chocolate extravaganza!
I was one of those weepy brides...cried when I saw Andy at the altar...cried when I saw the guests...cried going down the aisle...I was so overcome with emotion I couldn't hold it in. It was all that could ever hope for and more.
Of course, it took forever taking pictures and when I told the photographer that I needed a break she said...I've never had a bride ask for a break...luckily one of my bridesmaids was on the ball and said to her...well, you have now...LOL!
When we got to the reception and it was time for us to be announced...guess what? Yep, I cried again...lol! I'll never forget how handsome Andy looked that day...he was dressed in an all white tux and he looked so happy.
I had them play the song I Loved Her First for me and my dad to dance to and when Daddy starting crying...so did I.
My only regret is that my mom couldn't be there...as you may know she left this world 15 years ago, but is forever in my heart. I did have a special song played for her to which Andy and I danced to...it was by the Judds...called Mama He's Crazy. This was my only way of telling her that she was right...and that I did finally find the man who was to be my soul mate and how I wanted her to know that.
Anyway, the chocolate fountains were a huge success! We also had wrapped Hershey Bars in pink and brown polka dots with our names on the front for favors. I added some extra favors to the tables too...they were these little boxes of chocolate candles...and I swear that almost one person from every table nearly ate one!
Lastly, our pink peacock feathers in the tall vases which were filled with beads were a huge success as well. Everyone had a peacock feather in their hair or beads around their neck. I was so happy to see everyone having fun with them and that showed me it was not money wasted. I should add...there were only a couple feathers left and some broken beads...which I scooped up to add to my scrapbook.
I will be sure to post pictures once I get them scanned into my computer, but in order for me to do that...I have to buy a scanner. That will come soon.
Finally, all is well at the Arno household. Andy and I are so happy to finally be married and we have started taking classes to become foster parents. Our second class is tonight...and we had to write autobiographies about ourselves this past weekend which was easy for me because I do possess the gift of gab. It was a little more difficult for Andy, but he did his as well.
We have been trying to have a baby for a while now and have decided to make it our goal to have a child in our home by Christmas 2008 whether it be a foster child or adoptive child...it doesn't matter to us.
So...now that I have gabbed and gabbed...it's time for me to get back to shipping!
Take care all and have a wonderful day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 10/1/2007
Title: Six Days Away...
It's the final countdown til our big day...and I was running last minute wedding detail errands ALL last week.
I had a tangle with a hot glue gun Saturday night while gluing miniature flowers on bows to put on the beads of my centerpieces...a flower slipped out of my fingers and landed on the inside of my ring finger...OUCH! Needless to say, in the future I think I'll stick with Tacky glue...lol.
Yesterday my sister came over to help me straighten up a bit since some of my family will be visiting during our chocolate wedding gala...anyway, while I was cleaning the windows in my kitchen, I bumped into one of of these long sticky fly catchers (the flys up here are terrible this time of year)...and I knew the outcome once I saw the tack fall to the floor. It ended up tangled in my hair...grossed me out! I had my sister yank it from my hair...taking some of my tresses with it...but the worse part was when Andy came home and I told him what happened. He jokingly said I must have some flys stuck in my hair still...and when I made him check...he actually pulled out a couple of fly bodies...ewwwwwwww!
Of course, none of this really bothers me since I am feeling so excited about Saturday. Andy is really nervous about fast dancing since he said he doesn't know how to so he made me promise him that I wouldn't make him dance fast.
Today I am going to pick up my gown from being hemmed...I was supposed to do it last week, but just didn't have the time. I also have to pick up my shoes that were ordered two weeks ago. I decided on white ballet slippers since I tend to be a barefootin' gal...I HATE wearing shoes...and my feet can certainly attest to that...lol.
Aside from those two errands...I do believe all is just about done. I am working on a request list for the DJ and still need to get our vows to the wedding planner...but other than that...I am finally DONE!
My son, dad, aunt and uncle are expected to arrive Thursday and my two girlfriends from Connecticut will be here on Friday. I can't wait to see everyone!
I plan on shipping more packages today so I best get started. I did manage to package at least 25 orders yesterday and they are bagged up and ready to go to the Post Office at 8 am.
Again, thank you for your patience during this very exciting, yet busy time in my life.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 9/21/2007
Title: Wedding Update
Hi All!
As you know I have been busy planning our wedding to be held on October 6, 2007. With only two weeks to go...I am nearly done!
All I have left to do is order the flowers needed, pick up my dress from the seamstress (the only alteration needed was the hem...woohoo!) and clean my house!
My centerpieces are going to be beautiful. I am using 24" tall thin vases filled with light pink beads and topped off with darker pink ostrich feathers. I am going to drape framed words hung from ribbon or beads (don't know yet) such as Love, Patience, Hope, Desire, Wish, Dream, Believe, etc from them.
I don't know if I mentioned before, but my son Jared who turned 23 this past July is going to walk me down the aisle and give me away. My Andy is wearing an all white tux which will make him look awesome since he has tanned so easily this Summer working outside. I know that I am going to cry when I see him.
My only wish is that my mom were here to witness this chocolate wedding gala...not only is Andy everything she ever wished for me...she was a full blown chocoholic at heart too and would have LOVED the idea of a chocolate fountains, favors and wedding cake. I know she'll be in my heart...but it's just not the same.
Anyway, off to start packaging more orders...just wanted to give you all a quick update.
Take care and have the BEST day ever!
Sincerely, Shana ;-)
Date: 8/19/2007
Title: I Can See the Light!
Only seven weeks left til Andy and I finally tie the knot...woohoo!
Invitations arrived on Friday and it is my hope to get them all out next weekend. I am cutting it pretty close since the responses have to be back by September 16, but one can only do so much.
I have an appointment this Friday for alterations, but still haven't bought my bra nor my shoes! I may have to delay this appointment for another week...not completely sure yet.
My tables were to be covered in chocolate brown table cloths with pink chair covers tied in chocolate brown ribbons...but my wedding planner told me brown is not to be found anywhere! I was so upset...but decided on pink table cloths...brown chair covers with pink ribbon. I think that will look ok? Still debating on centerpieces and favors...too much to decide right now!
For the past two weeks I've been working over in the scrap yard for Andy. My job is no easy task mind you even though I am marrying the boss! :-) I have to weigh in the customers on our 40 foot truck scale and then calculate and pay them based on the weight of their scrap metal. I also buy non ferrous metals which include copper, aluminum, brass, etc. These metals are weighed on the smaller scale.
In between customers I am trying to clean up the scrap yard some...and oh my what a mess! It's a lot of lifting, bending, walking, pulling, etc which is a great workout and but by the end of the day...I am bushed!
One of the reasons I've started working at Arno's Scrap Metal is because Andy's business is growing fast...and now we have the machinery and capability to buy the material from other scrap yards. We truck his excavator to the job site and he loads directly off site...and then we have two tractor trailers which haul the metals directly into Canada. Anyway, when Andy is working off site...I am now responsible for our yard. Most days run smoothly...but nothing is more exasperating then one customer (or two or three) pulling into the yard exactly at 5 pm when I am ready to leave...grrrrrrrrrr! ;-)
The worse part is...we live directly across the street so even if I am already home...and feeding my goats, cows, etc and they see me...I have to go back. How frustrating!
I have 3-4 more days before Andy is back in the yard and then I'll be on part-time...taking care of the customers when he is loading our trucks to go out.
I have been in a shipping frenzy today...and was able to get out another 30-35 orders and I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Things were getting so far behind that I was starting to so overwhelmed, but with the graciousness from all of you with regard to the shipping delays...I am starting to feel better.
I have about another 35 orders left to ship and I should be able to finish them this Thursday and Friday.
Anyway...I sincerely thank you for visiting my website and for your patience, kind words, and I am also thankful for all the new friends I have made through this endeavor of mine.
Wishing you smiles...
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 8/10/2007
Title: All Kinds of Updates!
Life has been so hectic these past few months with no end in sight!
Our wedding is just about 8 weeks away and there are all kinds of things left to be done. Fortunately, I did hire an event planner to help me with the last minute to-do's so all should run smoothly.
I purchased my wedding gown last October and although it was a tiny bit tight...it did fit perfectly. Does that make any sense?! Anyway, I have been slowly losing some weight (about 19 lbs since the end of March) so now I think it will fit even better. My first alteration appointment is August 24 (my best friend's birthday...Happy Birthday, Lynn!)
I have loads of new Fall / Christmas items to add to the website and hope to be able to do so the weekend of August 18/19.
I have fallen behind in shipping (yet again!) and so hope that you will all bear with me as I struggle to catch up. My website has become more popular than I could have ever dreamed...and it is sometimes very hard to run it all by myself. I am reluctant to hire anyone to help me because I tend to be one of those who prefer to do it myself.
I have started working full-time at Andy's business, Arno's Scrap Metal, because he decided that since we are getting married that it is about time that I learn more about how his business runs...plus it's growing so fast that it needs both of us. I have one more full-time week left since he is working off-site right now...and then I'll cut back to 4 hours a day which should give me plenty of time to spend on A Primitive Gift For Her.
Anyway, it's nearing 8:30 this Friday night and after a hard day of work in the scrap metal yard, I am ready to relax so that I can get busy packaging and shipping loads and loads of orders tomorrow.
Take care all and please....if you have any questions or concerns, email me at slfcollectibles@hughes.net and I will be happy to assist in any way that I can.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 6/5/2007
Title: Upcoming Wedding
I just returned home from a weekend in Connecticut with my best friends and we were able to find bridesmaid dresses in only a couple of hours...the dresses are two piece...simply chic and beautiful! I am so excited! We chose tops in a beautiful dusty pink called Dahlia and long skirts in the color of chocolate...LOL!
I had so much fun while down there and isn't it amazing how loved some people can make you feel.
My son, Jared, also met us at David's Bridal so he could spend some time with me too...the poor guy had to sit among women trying on bridal gowns while waiting for Mom! He was such a good sport...he always is...which is what makes him such a wonderful person.
Anyway, have to go for now...lots of shipping to do while my internet connection keeps going off...what a pain in the neck!
Take care and have a glorious day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 5/12/2007
Title: New Postage Rates
The USPS postal rates are increasing on Monday and because dimensions are now required on Priority Mail, I have taken off the Priority Mail option until I can best figure out how to incorporate the dimensions of the item into the shipping calculation.
If you really need something shipped via Priority Mail, please email me after you place your order and I will let you know the actual difference in the rate.
Thank you so much!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 4/30/2007
Title: Health Update
Hi All.
Just a quick little update on my bout with being sick. First of all, I am feeling a bit better although I am still very weak...and again, I ask for your patience while I gather orders for shipment. I should be all caught up by the end of the week (fingers crossed.) I get these little 'windows' of energy in which I try to do all that I can do...because they don't last very long!
I have been feeling extremely homesick for my home state of Connecticut lately. I miss my son, my dad and the rest of my family and friends so very much. I also miss everything that I am so familiar with...the malls, the roads, the scenery...and with today being the 14th anniversary of my mom's passing...it's just been one heck of a week. I am sure these feelings of 'blueness' have something to do with being sick...and I'll feel much better once I am fully recovered.
I am so grateful to have made so many new friends through my website and want to thank you for your kind words and well wishes to get better...they certainly did brighten up these terrible days for me.
Anyway...I will be adding more new items toward the end of the week when all orders have been shipped...and I know you'll be pleased with some of my new finds. I would like to expand my curtain line and ask that if there is a particular style or color of curtains that you would like to see offered...send me an email and I'll be sure and order them if they are available. I am also going to add some wrought iron curtain rods and brackets...since these compliment country style curtains so very well.
Time to rest for now...take care and thank you for visiting A Primitive Gift For Her!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
P.S. I forgot to mention...that my poor Andy also caught pneumonia the same time I did...and he is also feeling better...thankfully.
Date: 4/25/2007
Title: Thank you for your patience
I want to thank everyone in advance for your patience while I gather together your orders for packaging and shipment.
I started feeling poorly on Saturday and because colds tend to last forever with me, I made an appointment with my doctor on Monday. As it turns out, I have pneumonia. I just wanted to mention this because I have never been this sick before and I must admit it is draining me of all my energy...and the pain in my back is terrible....but, no worries....I'll rest when I can and package and ship when I can't seem to sleep. I just wanted to let you know just in case it does take a couple days longer for me to ship your items. After all, as much as we would like it too...the world does not stop when one is sick!
Sincerely, Shana
Date: 4/7/2007
Title: A Few Tips for Internet Shopping
Here are a few tips to those new to buying online:
1. NEVER make a purchase without knowing the actual shipping cost in advance! Email the seller BEFORE you place your order with a list of the items you are interested in along with your zipcode. This way, you are aware of the shipping costs before you give your credit card number.
2. ALWAYS have a small tape measure or ruler by your computer when shopping so that you can have a general idea of how big or small the item is before purchasing. Sometimes pictures can be deceptive...something will look larger or smaller than the item actually is. If there are no measurements listed, just email the seller and ask!
3. If you haven't received your order after two weeks, definitely email the seller and ask to check the status of shipment. When paying via PayPal, you have only 30 days to submit a claim for non-receipt (and 45 days for credit card payments.)
I have learned these rules the hard way, and just wanted to share them with you. If you have any other tips that I have omitted....please email me and I will add them to the list.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 4/2/2007
Title: Monthly Drawing
As a way of expressing my gratitude to all of you for making my website such a success, I have decided to implement a gift set drawing every month. For each and every order placed during the month, you are automatically entered!
The drawings will be held on the 1st day of the following month and the winner will be announced on my home page. I will also email or call the winner to let them know when to expect their gift.
Good luck!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 4/2/2007
Title: Upcoming Wedding
Andy and I will be getting married on October 6 of this year. I have chosen to have a 'chocolate-themed' wedding (but, of course!) and would like you to share any ideas you have have for some sort of chocolate centerpieces and decorations. I really need your help!
Our wedding cake will be chocolate with chocolate frosting and pink roses since my colors are pink and brown. I have also decided to have a peanut butter grooms cake for Andy (that's his favorite flavor) with a picture of his '59 GMC truck outlined on it. (That's his baby and he drives it all summer long...it's a little too slow for me...lol!)
I did purchase mini chocolate candle favors in a pink/brown boxes but I am not really thrilled with these...so again, help me figure something out!
Please email me at slfcollectibles@hughes.net with any suggestions you may have.
Thank you ever so much!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 3/29/2007
Title: Easter Goodies
Easter and Spring decor has finally started to arrive and over the next couple of days, I'll be adding it to my website.
When my son was small, I loved to decorate for the holidays because it made it exciting for him to look forward to Santa or the Easter Bunny. Now I realize and find that it was a lot of work! This past Christmas, I decorated our living room and kitchen in a whole gingerbread theme but didn't end up taking any of it down until well into February! I am sure if you were to come and visit, you would probably find a forgotten Christas decoration here and there. The tree came down probably in mid January although I can't really be sure...lol!
Needless to say, I don't dare decorate for Easter; otherwise it will be the Fourth of July before the bunnies hop back into their baskets and boxes! As a matter of fact, I think I have a new egg dyeing kit tucked away in one of my cupboards from about 5 years ago that I never found the time to use.
Anyway, I do hope you enjoy all the new items for Easter because they really are simply adorable and for those who love to decorate for every season...have fun!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 3/27/2007
Title: Several Items Added To On Sale Category
Well...I have just added several items to the On Sale category simply because my inventory is now located in three separate locations...the extra room added to our home, the new garage (where Andy set up the shelving) and the last being my spare bedroom. My son is driving up from Connecticut to for the Easter weekend and he begged that I at least make room in the spare bedroom for him to sleep...of which I will gladly do because I am so excited to see him.
Even though Jared will be 23 this July...he still likes to hang with his 'cool' mom (that's me...woohoo!) and we have a lot of fun together. I think I trained him well because he'll even go shopping at the mall with me and not complain at all. This is after years of dragging him with me when he was younger of course...lol!
Anyway, please pop in to see the new sale items and help me make room for Jared!
Hope all is well with everyone...and I think Spring is finally on its way to upstate New York.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 3/24/2007
Title: How to Make Primitive Snowball Bowl Fillers
Primitive snowballs make great bowl fillers not only during the holiday season but all winter long!
To make your own primitive snowballs you'll need the following supplies:
Various sized stryofoam balls
White joint compound
Mica flakes or glass glitter
Off white, buttermilk or antique white acrylic paint
Toothpicks
An old cardboard box
Rubber gloves
To start, place some of the joint compound in an old bowl and add drops of the acrylic paint until you achieve the color you desire.
Take a styrofoam ball and roll it in the compound coating it generously and making certain to cover it evenly all the way around.
Place the compound covered ball into a bowl of mica flakes or glitter and roll it until the surface is completely covered. Shake gently.
Place a toothpick into the ball and then stick into the cardboard box to dry.
Allow 2-3 days to dry thoroughly.
Date: 3/23/2007
Title: How to Make Grubby Tags
To make your own grubby tags you'll need the following supplies:
3x5 index cards (cut to the size and shape you desire before staining) or shipping tags
3 heaping tablespoons of instant coffee (more expensive brands will give a darker color, but if using a less expensive brand just add more.)
Vanilla
Sponge Brush
Drying rack or Bakers Rack
To start, simply cut the index cards into the size and shape you want and make certain to punch a hole in the top for the string.
Boil one cup of water and then mix in the instant coffee and a few drops of vanilla.
Apply mixture to both sides of the tag with a sponge brush and place on a drying rack to dry. (A bakers rack works fine.)
Let the tags dry thoroughly turning them every so often. If they dry to light for your taste, just repeat the process.
To speed up the drying process, place them on a cookie sheet on a low temperature for just a few minutes...but don't forget them! (If the tag curls up after drying in the oven, press them with an iron set on a cotton setting. To protect your iron, place a pressing cloth over them first.)
If you want the tags to have a mottled effect spray them with a bit of water before completely dry.
Make certain to stain the string, torn homespun fabirc, twine or raffia that you are going to use as well!
When they are completely dry, you can write on them with a permanent sharpie marker. Add embellishments such as mica flakes, buttons, vintage photos or images if you desire.
If your embellishments are too light, simply dab them with a q-tip dipped in your coffee solution.
Date: 3/23/2007
Title: How to Rust Items
Rusting items with this extremely easy recipe will enable you to rust safety pins, jingle bells, or anything else you want to age for your primitive works of art.
Be sure to purchase the cheapest brands of pins, safety pins, bells, etc. as the more expensive ones have a shellac coating that has to be sanded off before rusting. You still have to sand the cheaper items, but not as intense.
Do not use BRASS items because brass will NOT rust!
It is highly suggested that you do this outside or in a well ventilated area. It is important to keep children and pets away while you are doing this process.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup bleach
1 teaspoon salt
Combine the ingredients in an old quart jar.
Lightly sand your items and then add them to the mixture in the jar and cover loosely. Place in a safe spot away from children and pets and let set for at least 2 days.
Line a tray with paper towels and remove the items with an old fork from the mixture. Place the tray in the sunshine and the items will begin to rust as they dry. Move them around so that they dry on all sides.
CAUTION: Dispose of properly so that no child or animal will come in contact with the used mixture. DO NOT throw the mixture down the sink!
Date: 3/23/2007
Title: How to Tea Stain Fabric
Tea staining fabric gives off a warm antique look on many items including dolls, candle mats, quilts, etc. and works well only on natural fabrics such as muslin, cotton, linen and wool.
Green tea, black tea, raspberry and herbal teas will all produce different tints and tones so don't be afraid to experiment.
Black teas (which are the most popular) will give a soft brown or cream tone to the fabric.
To start, make sure to wash your fabric first if it is new to remove the sizing.
Four cups of water and 4 single size tea bags will dye on yard of fabric.
Bring the water to a boil and remove from heat. Then add the tea bags and let set for about 5 minutes until the liquid turns the desired color. Remove the tea bags from the water.
Wet the fabric in water thoroughly first, removing excess water before putting in the tea mixture and then stir gently.
Let fabric soak for approximately 10 minutes while checking often to see if the fabric is dark enough. Don't forget that wet fabric will be darker than the dried finished product.
When fabric has reached the desired color remove from the tea mixture and rinse well with warm water and a mild dish soap. This needs to be done so that the fabric doesn't become damaged by the citric acid in the tea which can destroy fabric fibers over a period of time.
Line dry or place the fabric in the dryer. Place in an old pillow case to protect your dryer and then wipe out the inside of your dryer when finished.
When the fabric is dry, if you want a darker shade simply repeat the process. If the fabric is too dark, you can wash it in a gallon of water with one teaspoon of bleach. Rinse thoroughly and re-dry.
If fabric is to be used for an item that will be washed, soak it in a gallon of cold water with one tablespoon of vinegar. This will set the color and prevent it from washing out.
Date: 3/23/2007
Title: How to Make Gingerbread Dough Ornaments
This is a NON-EDIBLE recipe!
Ingredients Required:
1 cup shortening
1 cup dark brown sugar
2 cup molasses
1 cup white glue
1 3/4 cup water
6 cup flour
1 tablespoon baking soda
3 teaspoons ground ginger
Cream shortening and sugar, then add molasses and glue.
In separate bowl mix flour, baking soda and ginger. Add flour mixture and water alternately to the shortening mix. Add enough extra flour to create a very stiff dough.
Knead the dough well and then roll out to 1/4" thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and poke hole in each unbaked ornament to allow for wire or fabric hanger.
Bake at 300 degrees on cookie sheet until brown. Remove from cookie sheet and place directly on oven racks at 100 degrees for three hours.
They have to be cooked thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
Please note these ornaments will rise and become puffed-like, these are not flat ornaments.
Once cooled, paint as desired, add your hanger and you have created a wonderful ornament!
Date: 3/23/2007
Title: How to Paint on Soap
The most important factor with painting on soap is patience as the time for the soap to cure between steps is essential.
Remove soap from wrapper and allow to air dry for a few days turning over every so often. If you purchase soap with imprinting on both sides, simply use a hot butter knife to smooth the imprint away.
Wipe the soap with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol to further remove oil from the surface. Try not to touch the surface after wiping with the alcohol to keep the natural oil from your fingers from getting on the soap.
Seal the soap with a sealer such as Delta's candle and soap medium. Seal only the top and sides if you plan to use the soap. Allow the soap to dry thoroughly and cure for a full day.
If you want a background on your soap, base coat the bar with acrylic paint.
Transfer your pattern with a stylus and graphite paper . Be careful not to press to hard or you will make grooves in the soap.
Paint your design as you would on any other surface and let dry thoroughly.
When you are done, you'll have a very nice, inexpensive gift!
Date: 3/14/2007
Title: Limited Quantities of New Items
Shipments of new items are starting to arrive; however, they are in limited quantities so if you see something you like, please do not hesitate to order it. I have decided that in order to always be able to offer new decor items to you (and because I am running out of space!) I will only be re-ordering those considered 'Best Selling Items'. This is not to say that if you see something that is sold out and you absolutely have to have it...I may still be able to get it for you.
I will be listing new items starting this afternoon once I am caught up with shipments for orders placed over the weekend.
Have a great day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 3/3/2007
Title: Affordable Pricing
I have received several positive comments about the affordable pricing of my items and it is my belief that everyone should be able to afford to add little bits and bobs (a favorite saying from my friend, Karen!) to their home. After all, your home is the place where you should feel the most comfortable and who wouldn't be comfortable surrounded by the people and things that they love the most!
I've always had the love of decorating in me and I attribute this to my mom. She is in Heaven now, but I know how much she would have enjoyed helping me with my business. Do you know that when my mom would come to visit...if I left the room for even a moment...she would change around some of my decor! I didn't always notice right away, but most times when I did...I would leave it the way she put it because it looked so much better.
There were times when raising my son alone that I didn't have a lot of extra money to spend on decorating so my mom, my best friend Lynn and I would go tag saling as we call here in New England. Because my mom and I had the same decorating taste, there were many times when we would race to the tag sale leaving poor Lynn in the backseat of my small two door car!
My next decorating adventure will be helping my son, Jared decorate his first apartment when he is ready. He is now 22 (where did my baby go?!) and has a great sense of style (this must come from his mom!)
Well, time to close for now as I have many, many more items to list.
Wishing you all a wonderful Saturday!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 2/28/2007
Title: Back from the Tradeshow!
I returned home from the tradeshow very late Monday night and after a weekend full of driving and a very long 6 hour drive home alone, I was extremely tired yesterday, but very happy as I have found several new vendors with lots of great items!
The new items I purchased at the show won't be arriving for about 2 weeks, but I do have new goodies that came in while I was gone. It's a neverending cycle here at A Primitive Gift For Her. :-)
I bought a bunch of very affordable primitive signs and I will start listing them this evening.
Anyway, its back to work for me as I have many new orders to ship along with a few that I just couldnt get to before I left.
Have a great day!
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 2/21/2007
Title: Shipping Lag
I am a tad behind on shipping this week, but I don't want anyone to fret. My fiance has recently reorganiZed (my Z is stuck on caps!) my inventory along with putting up 8 sets of new shelves for me...the only trouble is...now I can't find anything! He does mean well and I am very grateful for his help...thank you so much, Andy!
I am leaving this weekend for a tradeshow in Marlborough, MA which is about an hour from where I grew up in Connecticut. I am very excited to be going back to visit my neck of the woods and as well as searching for new goodies to share with you!
Any orders placed between Friday, February 23 and Tuesday, February 27 will be processed on Wednesday, February 28 and shipped by the end of the week.
Please note that I will have all current orders shipped before my departure on Friday...no worries!
Thank you so much for understanding.
Sincerely, Shana :-)
Date: 2/21/2007
Title: New Inventory Has Arrived!
When it rains, it pours!
Yesterday I received several shipments of new items that I have been awaiting and I will be listing them as quickly as possible in between my own shipping of packages. I have been waiting for so long for many of these items to arrive and only Murphy's Law would allow them to all arrive in the same day!
I even have a couple of new quilts in as well as some quilt block wall hangings...these are really nice and I am excited to get them listed...perhaps this afternoon.
Well, better get back to work...never a dull moment here at A Primitive Gift For Her!
Have a great day!
Sincerely, Shana
Date: 2/19/2007
Title: First Update
I am still awaiting several shipments of new items that I am sure will please everyone. It is my hope that some of these shipments will begin to arrive this week so that I may have the new items listed by the upcoming weekend. I have restocked many sold out items over the past few days and have found a way to manage my inventory online so that I can keep up with the out-of-stock items.
I love to shop online and visit other prim sites to see how others may do things and the worst thing I have found is that I HATE websites that play music or have trailing cursors. These sites run rather slowly for me so I end up getting bored and leaving the site. I also dislike it when I find that many items that I wish to purchase...end up being sold out. This is very frustrating, which is why I will now order larger quantities of my best selling items so that you won't feel this way when visiting A Primitive Gift For Her.
I take my website and my business very seriously which is why I encourage you to contact me immediately if an item is sold out. I will then inform you if it has been discontinued or re-ordered and will gladly set one aside for you and email you when it has arrived.
If anyone has any suggestions or comments, I would love to hear them.
Thank you for taking the time to read the above and I hope that you have a great week.
Sincerely, Shana
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