5 Ways to Capture and Create Autumn's Enchantment by Christy Hydeck

“Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.”
― Yoko Ono

A little while ago, I was contacted by the awesome folks over at Shutterfly storytelling - asking if I could submit some tips + tricks on creating enchanting and magical photos for Autumn/Halloween. I was honored to be asked and totally jumped for joy at the opportunity to share some of my 'secrets'.

I hope you'll enjoy the article and that it helps you create some spectacularly haunting images too!

Always,

Chrysti

P.S. - There are 7 - just seven free paintings left to accompany the book bundle - hurry if ya want one!

You've prolly heard me talking lots (and lots!) about my hot-off-the-presses new book "Photo Craft: Creative Mixed Media and Digital Approaches to Transforming Your Photographs" (co-authored with the lovely Susan Tuttle) - but what I haven't begun to go on + on about are all the amazing projects that we couldn't cram into the book. One of the things I am most proud of in our book - is just how much information we managed to pack into it! It was important to both of us that we go light on fluff and heavy on content. I do believe we succeeded! What is even more amazing is that we cut enough material to prolly fill an entire second book! So, I've made the decision to begin sharing tidbits of my cut items here on the ol' blog.

Originally intended to be a sidebar to the "Fotofile: embracing the art journal through happy accidents, photography and upcycled materials" project of mine within the book, the prompts that follow are meant to get you started when you have a creative block. If you're looking for even more inspiration, be sure to visit Samantha Kira Harding - journal artist + woman extraordinare - she contributed one of the most beautiful handmade journals I've ever seen - to accompany my fotofile in Photo Craft ... you can read all about that in the book.

Pssssst… hi you! Yes, YOU!

Stuck on how to fill your journal pages?  These unique prompts should get you going pretty quickly.

1: Thumbody Loves You: Tacky? Yes! Corny? Yes! Leaves you with the I’m-almost-ashamed-to-admit-it-feel-good-warm-fuzzies-inside? Yes! Press your thumb onto an inkpad and place multiple thumbprints all over a page. Personalize them by adding legs, eyes, arms, beards, hats, unicorn horns… whatever you like really and write the name of someone who has loved you inside of each print. Refer to this page next time you have a calgon-take-me-away-moment.

2: Indulge your inner deviant: You can commit one crime, any crime … and get away with it! Describe your ultimate heist, the masterminds behind it and how the sinister plot would unfold. Use words, illustrations, maps if needed and top secret codes. Don’t worry; I won’t tell. Mwahahaha.

3. Vernacular Fantacular: We’ve all done it; the proverbial smile and nod accompanied with glazed eyes that come with hearing a word that instantly paralyzes your intellect. Now is the time to make a list of the jargon that has you all befuddled! Befriend the dictionary to solve the mystery.  Collage the definitions onto your page, write them, or just file them away in your oh-so-smart brain. FYI: Fantacular isn’t a real word, so no need to waste time on that one. Phrontistery, logorrhea, unctuous, coterie and abecedarian are actual words though.  See? You’re well on your way to becoming a wordsmith already.

4. Channel Your Inner Weird Al Yankovic… and set him free! Pick a song and write a parody to it. Set a timer and just go with your gut. It doesn’t have to be Grammy material, just needs to be fun! Moi? I totally have the rights to: I’m taking sexy back, I want a refund ‘cuz the song is whack, that kind of music is not my crack …..admit it, you’re singing it, aren’t you?

5. If I had a million dollars… for every time I’ve seen that prompt, I’d be a billionaire. Gen-u-ine happiness starts with wanting what you already have. Make a list of the immeasurable goodies (tangible or not) that you actually have and absolutely love. Heck, you don’t even have to love it – just have gratitude for it.  Don’t you feel your cheerfulness factor rising already?

6. CONGRATULATIONS! You have your own paint line!  Gather snippets of scrap papers in all different colors, glue them onto a page and name them.  Raspberry Redux, Persnickety Pink, Cupcake Batter, Broccoli Hills and Organic Breath are mine… alllllll mine.

7. Tweet, Tweet:  Social networks like Twitter (twitter.com) are notorious for using hashtags (#) with trending topics. Scout out the daily trends and opt for the low-tech way of participating –respond with words or illustrations in your journal. Here are a few that I have seen, fashioned in the-ever-popular-finish-this-sentence-format, to get you started: #EvenIfYouPaidMeIWont , #TheyNeedToBringBack, #ThingsNotToSayToYourGirlfriend,  and my favorite, an introspective one: #TweetYour16YearOldSelf  (what WOULD you tell your 16 year old self?) The best part is, no one will ever have to know you exceeded your 140 character limit.

8. Reinvent The Wheel: When life becomes a bit too routine, a bit too mundane – it is time to change the norm. Think of everyday, ordinary events like saying “Hi”, “Goodbye”, or “I Love You” and list out new ways to express those things. Be an inventor and rename things like species of birds or trees in ways that make sense to you. (Who named all those anyway? That question used to keep me up at night when I was a kid) How many other ways can you open a door other than using your hands? (would a hidden ninja drop down from your ceiling an deliver an award-winning kick to open it for you?) A bit of imagination is all it takes to see things in a different light.

9. Got Genealogy?  We all have that proverbial crazy uncle who has a thousand anecdotes ready to go at a moment’s notice.  Pilfer the best material and jot down those stories you’ve heard at every family function for as far back as you can remember.  Not only is it a great way to keep those memories alive, but it may just make great blackmail material someday! Alternatively, dig into your family tree a bit. Make note of the things that catch your interest, stories you never knew or the places and people you want to find more information on.

10. Interview 1000 Strangers! Don your best PI/Reporter gear and not-so-stealthly-supplies then hit coffee shops, doctor offices, the neighborhood park or even the dry cleaners. Introduce yourself and ask if you can interview someone you don’t know. Just say it is for a personal project, most people will be flattered you want to know more about them. If someone isn’t interested, just move on – no need to take it personally. Use your journal to record their answers. I’m willing to bet that you’ll begin to see people in a new light, broaden your perspectives and perhaps even laugh a little. Huzzah!

Always,

Chrysti

PS: There are still a few Book Bundles left - the free paintings are going fast though, so hurry!

Photo Craft: Creative Mixed Media and Digital Approaches to Transforming Your Photographs

"He felt that his whole life was some kind of dream and he sometimes wondered whose it was and whether they were enjoying it."
    -    Douglas Adams (1952 - 2001), "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy"

That's a bit how I feel these days, as evidenced by my nails that have been bitten down to a pulp and the non-stop pacing I can't seem to shake. Why you ask? (or perhaps you didn't, but this is a case of i'm-totally-sharing-anyway!) The book Susan Tuttle + I poured our hearts into and feverishly spent most of last year working on - is scheduled to be released on October 19th!

In celebration, I am offering this amazing package on all orders of my book, bought through me through November 15th 2012. Can you tell I am excited? I hope you are too. Of course, you can always purchase it through your favorite bookseller as well, but the bundle deal is exclusive for those who order direct through me!

For just $35.00 You'll receive:

• 1 Autographed (by Christy) copy of Photo Craft -($24.99 Value) -personalization available upon request, at no additional charge.
• 2 Limited Edition Artography Postcards-Personally chosen by Chrysti
• 1 8x10 Artography Print ($25.00 Value) -Personally chosen by Chrysti SOLD OUT - now offering an 8x10 mat with a 5x7 print inside, personally chosen by Chrysti
  
• 1 5x7 Artography Print ($15.00 value)-Personally chosen by Chrysti
• 1 Entry into a giveaway for a 16" x 20" Mixed-Media Painting of mine! ($450.00 value)
• Free Priority Shipping within the US ($5.50 Value)

Anndddd....

• The first 10 purchases get an ORIGINAL 8"x8" Mixed-Media Painting of mine. -Personally chosen by Chrysti - SOLD OUT
• The next 10 purchases get an ORIGINAL 6"x6" Mixed-Media Painting of mine.-Personally chosen by Chrysti SOLD OUT
• The next 10 purchases get an Original 4"x4" Mixed-Media Painting of mine.-Personally chosen by Chrysti SOLD OUT
• The next 25 purchases all receive an ORIGINAL Mixed Media painting of mine, sizes vary ( range from 2.5" to 8") , chosen by me.

The bundle will ship ASAP! (Estimated between October 25th, 2012 - November 25th, 2012) I am just waiting for my copies to arrive.

UPDATED: 10/26/2012 The bundles are SHIPPING NOW!

If you are outside of the US, there will be a shipping surcharge. Please contact me for details!

“To be able to get out of bed and do what you love for the rest of the day is beyond words.” -  John Schroeder

Always,

Chrysti

“Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” ~ Anthony Robbins

Within minutes of being asked to donate original artwork to the Artists Give Back fundraiser (hosted by Cloth, Paper, Scissors magazine) I responded with a big ol' YES! Having had friends and relatives who have battled breast cancer made it a no-brainer for me. Giving back is a steady part of my business, it always has been and always will be - and I'd encourage anyone to do the same. Whether it is through your time, money or products - there is always a way to contribute towards the things that mean something to you. I believe that together we really can make the world a better place.I'm Here by Christy Hydeck for Artists Give Back

"I'm Here"
One of a Kind Mixed-Media Art on Canvas Board, Sealed with Beeswax
Size: 8" x 8"
Proceeds Benefit The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.®
By Manassas, VA Artist + Photgrapher Christy 'chrysti' Hydeck

 a-hoppin' by Christy Hydeck for Artists Give Back

"a-hoppin' "
One of a Kind Mixed-Media Art on Canvas Board, Sealed with Beeswax
Size: 8" x 8"
Proceeds Benefit The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.®
By Manassas, VA Artist + Photgrapher Christy 'chrysti' Hydeck

Wide Open by Christy Hydeck for Artists Give Back"Wide Open"
One of a Kind Mixed-Media Art on Canvas Board, Sealed with Beeswax
Size: 8" x 8"
Proceeds Benefit The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.®
By Manassas, VA Artist + Photgrapher Christy 'chrysti' Hydeck

"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something I can do". -Edward Everett Hale

Always,

Chrysti

AHAlife has pulled together a lineup of nine serious Instagram All-Stars for a thrilling live Twitter Chat!

• Cole Rise on Twitter & Instagram
• Matt French on Twitter & Instagram
• Hey -- That's Me!!! -----> Chrysti Hydeck on Twitter & Instagram
• Curious2119 on Twitter & Instagram
• Ladyshark on Twitter & Instagram
• Hawthorne Photo on Twitter & Instagram
• Bentrovato Blog on Twitter & Instagram
• Fashion Office on Twitter & Instagram
• Inkedfingers on Twitter & Instagram
• AhaLife! on Twitter & Instagram

Won't you join me and these other talented photographers for what promises to be a fun chat? Learn our favorite apps, tips + tricks, thoughts on Instagram & more!

You can click the photo above for more info or just be sure to head here to follow along seamlessly tonight! The chat begins at 8 pm EST and runs an hour or so.

Hope to see you there!

Always,

Chrysti

As you can see, I 'drew' the winners for the awesome 'Spot Color' Challenge winners yesterday, but before I could post them - a few urgent things came up that needed my immediate attention. My sincere apologies for not getting to it in a more timely fashion - something about best laid plans and all that jazz! Well, without further adieu.... we have the winners here!

1st Prize (as chosen by random.org):

Finalist #3: IG User @dawa_lhamo

What a wonderful play of shadow + light. The selective red coloring enhances the emotional connection to the viewer and adds instant drama to the shot. Add in the impact of the lines and it is just a brilliant piece.

You Win:

1st Prize:

• An Olloclip 3-in-1 macro/fisheye/wide-angle lens from (IG: @olloclip)
• A custom photo tile from Insta Charms (IG: @insta_charms)
• A 30-page custom photo book from Keepsy (IG: @keepsy)
• An 8" x 8" metal print from PostalPix (IG: @postalpix)
• 2 4" x 4" Boobox frames from Hatchcraft (IG: @hatchcraft )
• A 20” x 20” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

Congratulations!!!!

2nd Prize (as chosen by random.org):

Finalist #1: IG User @clanz

I love the composition of this, the unexpected subject and how the color doubles as a leading line. It draws the eye right in - Kudos!

You Win:

2nd Prize:

• An 8" x 8" metal print from (IG: @postalpix)
• A 16” x 16” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

Congratulations!

3rd Prize (as chosen by random.org):

Finalist #8: IG User @aasyouwishh

Such a powerful photo, the spot color just magnifies that! I hope noone was hurt in that fire - the drama in this shot is breathtaking.

You Win:

3rd Prize:

• A 12” x  12” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs) - feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

Congratulations!

IMPORTANT: If you haven't already sent me your addresses, please do so ASAP so I can pass them on to the right folks. contact me here. I'll be confirming your emails today.

Thanks to MacPhun, the makers of FX Photo Studio, and now Color Splash Studio (IG: @colorsplashrocks) for sponsoring this challenge! I am also extremely grateful to all of the prize sponsors for the amazing giveaways - the generosity doesn't go unnoticed. Please, be sure to check out all of their feeds + products!

Thanks to all those who entered as well, your contributions were stellar!

Stay tuned for another awesome contest soon!

Always, Chrysti

P.S. Did you know my book is available for pre-order? Well, hurry - reserve yours now to get the best price!

Did y'all really have to make it so difficult to choose 10 finalists? Carl + I were ab-so-friggin-lutely blown away by the talent, creativity and sheer volume of  (hello! thousands of entries!) submissions. I so, so, SO wish we could give each + every one of you a prize. Your photos continually inspire, motivate and often resonate within me. Words alone just can't express how much that means to me.

After spending hours looking through the magnificent entries, Carl + I decided upon these 10 photos as the #colorsplash_chrysti top ten finalists. Not, not, NOT an easy decision at all - in fact, it was extremely difficult! We tried to include a range of subjects + styles - and truly hope that you enjoy them as well. Feel free to shout out your favorites in the comments, i always love hearing from you.

Now, go grab your favorite beverage, a towel (in case a touch of drool begins as you scroll through the finalists) and crank up tunes that move you ...then enjoy the show below!

Finalist #1: IG User @clanz

I love the composition of this, the unexpected subject and how the color doubles as a leading line. It draws the eye right in - Kudos!

Finalist #2: IG User @katmein

Wow!!! Spectacular! This instantly grabbed not just my attention, but @carl 's attention too. Creative + beautiful. Perfect use of selective color!

Finalist #3: IG User @dawa_lhamo

What a wonderful play of shadow + light. The selective red coloring enhances the emotional connection to the viewer and adds instant drama to the shot. Add in the impact of the lines and it is just a brilliant piece.

Finalist #4: IG User @drexbear

We were actually torn between two photos you submitted! In the end though, the fact that you not just noticed but shared this everyday, ordinary beauty won out. It has a very wizard-of-oz-esque vibe to me. Awesomeness. Keep finding the beauty in the everyday!

Finalist #5: IG User @tzales13

OH those freckles! To die for! A perfect summer moment captured for eternity. The selective color on the watermelon pulls the focus to his face and emphasizes the joy of youth. Spectacular job.

Finalist #6: IG User @colr

I love, love, love how you took an all too common subject - and made it unique. Bonus points for the creative use of selective color! I am just happy looking at it. We had such a difficult time choosing between all of your entries, they were all exquisite!

Finalist #7: IG User @rameybean

I love the use of high-key here. The quality is incredible, and was one of the best eye entries in the challenge - it really stuck out! Light + bright always makes me feel good. Eye dig it. Sorry, couldn't resist the bad pun!

Finalist #8: IG User @aasyouwishh

Such a powerful photo, the spot color just magnifies that! I hope noone was hurt in that fire - the drama in this shot is breathtaking.

Finalist #9: IG User @dukes0445

What a unique take on a tourist attraction! I so love when folks find a new way to show something we've seen a thousand times before. Superb choice for using selective color.

Finalist #10: IG User @ledebone

Calgon, take me away! I'm oh-so-ready for a vacation. The selective color really emphasizes the curves and golden light in the photo. Well seen!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU!

• All 10 finalists will receive a limited edition, signed print of mine. Please contact me with your names + mailing addresses by 6/30/2012.

TOMORROW! The top 3 winners will be announced - they will be chosen by random.org, so every finalist has an equal chance of scoring the loot!

Speaking of, here is a refresher on the treasure trove of prizes:

1st Prize:

• An Olloclip 3-in-1 macro/fisheye/wide-angle lens from (IG: @olloclip)
• A custom photo tile from Insta Charms (IG: @insta_charms)
• A 30-page custom photo book from Keepsy (IG: @keepsy)
• An 8" x 8" metal print from PostalPix (IG: @postalpix)
• 2 4" x 4" Boobox frames from Hatchcraft (IG: @hatchcraft )
• A 20” x 20” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

2nd Prize:

• An 8" x 8" metal print from (IG: @postalpix)
• A 16” x 16” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

3rd Prize:

• A 12” x  12” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs) - feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

Thanks to MacPhun, the makers of FX Photo Studio, and now Color Splash Studio (IG: @colorsplashrocks) for sponsoring this challenge! I am also extremely grateful to all of the prize sponsors for the amazing giveaways - the generosity doesn't go unnoticed. Please, be sure to check out all of their feeds + products!

Pssssst.....If you were voting, who would it be for?

Til tomorrow,

Always, Chrysti

P.S. Did you know my book is available for pre-order? OMGOSH! How cool is that!

I'm oh-so-excited to begin a summer filled with amazing contests, giveaways, tutorials, announcements + photography projects on my blog. I've been waiting for quite some time to get back into action, and true to form, I plan to do it with a bang. Let's just hope I re-adjust smoothly! Thanks to the many, many folks who kept my blog hoppin', even when I was inactive.

First up, is a spectacularly awesome contest that I have the pleasure of hosting on Instagram. (not following me there? hop to it already - I have lots of fun lined up for this summer!) Throughout the post, I have highlighted some amazing photos that have already put their entries in. I'll be featuring more entries throughout the week here as well! Enter today, to have a chance at being featured in the next post!

Photo Credits L to R: @kewiki, @fentanyl69, @jeswith1s

The Why:

In celebration of the launch of Color Splash Studio (IG NAME: @colorsplashrocks) for iPhone, MacPhun is hosting a HUGE photo contest over the next few weeks!

Besides, giveawaya + contests are just plain fun!

Photo Credits L to R: @brookealoo, @themojofilter, @sarin919

The How:

• The challenge theme is "SPOT COLOR". Post your favorite + most creative selective color photos – I am especially fond of creativity!! 
• These can be old or new and there is NO limit to the amount of entries.
• You don’t have to use Color Splash Studio to enter, any app is ok.
• To enter, just tag your photos on Instagram with #colorsplash_chrysti
• This week’s challenge ends at 11:59 PM EST on June 23rd.

Photo Credits L to R: @musiccityace, @wondercow11, @clstuard

The Judging!

• My handsome guy @carl and I will select 10 of our favorite entries as finalists.
• The top 10 finalists will be posted on my Instagram account in storyboard form and the full sized photos will be featured here.
• 3 winners will be selected from the 10 finalists randomly, using random.org
• The winner will be announced on my Instagram account on June 25th.

Everyone gets a fair shot here!

Photo Credits L to R: @jazzbandjunkie, @vilaz, @stellarphotog

The Prizes!

1st Prize:

• An Olloclip 3-in-1 macro/fisheye/wide-angle lens from (IG: @olloclip)
• A custom photo tile from Insta Charms (IG: @insta_charms)
• A 30-page custom photo book from Keepsy (IG: @keepsy)
• An 8" x 8" metal print from PostalPix (IG: @postalpix)
• 2 4" x 4" Boobox frames from Hatchcraft (IG: @hatchcraft )
• A 20” x 20” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

2nd Prize:

• An 8" x 8" metal print from (IG: @postalpix)
• A 16” x 16” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs)- feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

3rd Prize:

• A 12” x  12” photo canvas of your favorite photo from Instacanvas (IG: @instacnvs) - feel free to pick one of mine. yep, totally shameless.

EACH of the 10 finalists will also receive a signed, limited edition print of mine.

Photo Credits L to R: @icoloursplash, @visualeyezit, @th3w4cko

Special Thanks:

Thanks to MacPhun, the makers of FX Photo Studio, and now Color Splash Studio (IG: @colorsplashrocks) for sponsoring this challenge! I am also extremely grateful to all of the prize sponsors for the amazing giveaways - the generosity doesn't go unnoticed. Please, be sure to check out all of their feeds + products!

And a HUGE thanks to each of you - your support makes all of this possible.

'nuff said.

Check back tomorrow for more featured photos + creative ideas on using selective color!

Always,

Chrysti

© Christy Hydeck -Don't tempt fate, karma or my lawyers by stealing.

I know, I know... it is has been half an eternity since I posted a blog entry. There is good reason for that, but I am not at liberty to divulge any more information ... yet.

I came dangerously close to axing this project from my blog.. (moi= picky, picky)... cuz' I wasn't feelin' the iPhone shots that I quickly snapped to share my re-do. Sadly, my DSLR camera was a mere 50+ feet inside, but alas, I couldn't be bothered. You know how it goes when you're in the-noone-disturb-me-im-changing-the-world-creative zone.

I scored this Pier 1 patio love-seat off of Craigslist. However, it was in far worse condition than the seller mentioned and desperately needed some tender loving care. As the photo says, it really is a cheap + easy revamp.

So, grab yourself a few things:

• Old Wicker Furniture in dire need of a make-over -clean and prime it first for maximum longevity.
• Indoor/Outdoor Brown Spray Paint - i like this and this.
  
• Indoor/Outdoor Clear Poly Spray - i like this one.
• Plastic Tarp/Sheeting - like this.
• Bricks -to weigh down the tarp if it is windy.
• A Sunny-ish, not terribly windy day
  
• Sexy Mask Thingy - like this -to prevent breathing it in and suffering the respiratory consequences.
• Patience - it is a virtue after all.
• Earplugs- if you too have a neighbor who constantly tells you what to do

 Then, do a few things to prepare:

I chose not to prime this particular piece. Frankly, I am not sure the condition will stand up much longer than this year - so I didn't want to invest the time in extra work. If you want the finish to last as long as possible, I would strongly recommend priming it after a good scrubbing.

1. Safety First: put on your im-sexy-and-i-know-it mask. Don gloves if desired as well.
2. Lay out your tarp in an area away from anything you do not want overspray on. Place bricks on each corner and where the legs of the furniture wil go.
3. Get all your supplies handy, play some happy music and get ready to work.

Now, let's have some fun:

1. Shake It Baby! Shake that can for a couple minutes then begin spraying the piece. The can will recommend a minimum distance to keep from it, follow that advice to avoid runs. Spray thinly and evenly in long, sweeping strokes.
2. After a thin coat is covering the entire piece, wait 30-45 minutes then recoat in the same manner.
3. To ensure good coverage on wicker, you'll want to flip and turn the piece to spray it from every conceivable angle.
4. After it is all covered, let it dry for 2 hours before spraying the clear coating on.
5. Give it 4-6 hours to dry as a whole before moving it back.
6. It is wise to wait 24 hours before setting cushions on it. I however, put them on after 6 hours with no ill effects.

 © Christy Hydeck -Don't tempt fate, karma or my lawyers by stealing.

I like to fill the time between drying and decorating by snapping and processing random shots with my iPhone.

© Christy Hydeck -Don't tempt fate, karma or my lawyers by stealing.

After it has dried, add your cushions.

If you have tendon issues as I do, whine for 3 days about the pain + numbness in your hand/forearm.

I already had the back cushions here (from home depot last summer) and had planned to keep the cushion that came with the craigslist find - until i saw it was swarming with stink bugs. Yuck!! The germaphobe inside me won out over the thrifty side and I broke down and bought a cushion from Pier 1.

We are still working on the patio as a whole and cannot wait to share it with you!

Warmly,

Chrysti

© Christy Hydeck -Don't tempt fate, karma or my lawyers by stealing.

1) It's bound to be different than any other present you'll receive; I want it to make an impression.
2) I take package presentation seriously, v e r y seriously. No cartoony paper here.
3) You'll have a heckuva time opening it, by design- merely so it makes it entertaining for moi.

Combine those with a hefty dose of my im-so-terribly-cheap-err-frugal that I really want a boutique look for well, next to nothing.  Don't we all? So this year, after I completed the book, I did a big ol' clean-out in my studio and stumbled upon this massive roll of vintage wallpaper that i got for $1 at a salvage store when I lived in Raleigh, it was either here or here ... I honestly can't remember. It's off white, has a subtle birch pattern and simply lovely. I decided right then and there to use up some of it as gift wrap.

Wallpaper as gift wrap? Perfection! Heavy, doesn't tear easily, folds nicely - the roll will wrap 300+ gifts i think... talk about economical. (I'll be lining my drawers with some next!) The only slight drawback is that this paper repelled tape - so I had to improvise and used hot glue.

Yes, Hot Glue.

A dab here, a dab there... just enough to keep those flaps shut. (you can get one here if needed)

© 2011 Christy Hydeck

Once upon a time... I had an online supply store and sold lovely vintage ribbons and trims.

This red fabric trim, was one of those. Christmas Red. Birch Paper.

A match made in my studio, or heaven...

then again heaven is a studio to me...

Anyway, I digress.

With a massive, massive wholesale roll I am still trying to use up this stuff! (This appears to be similar, if you wanted a stash of your own) To adhere it to the package: I cut each piece so that when tightly pulled, the ends met in the middle. I secured it with a dab of hot glue. After a gazillion burns on my finger, I got a wee bit wiser and used scissors to press the ends into it - keeps it all nice and taut.

© 2011 Christy HydeckWith the ribbon all done, that just left the gift tags.

I'm a nature girl at heart.  I had a big ol' bag of birch bark that I had collected from forest floors, the parking lot by UNO's where the birch trees are and a jumbo bag that I swapped Donna for awhile back. It was a no-brainer to delve into that stash. To secure it to the present: Arrange pieces in a formation you like. Dab hot glue (betcha didn't see that one coming) to the back and press for a moment or two. Continue until happy with your placement. Write recipient name in Sharpie.

Sidenote: Why oh why do we hoard supplies as if they are precious and shouldn't be used? What good do they do collecting dust anyway? I'm on a mission to use what I have. Join me!

All in all, I am pretty pleased with how they turned out. For a bit of variety, I used the plain side of grocery bags and Kraft paper too.

© 2011 Christy Hydeck

I think you could add a sprig of evergreen for a nice finishing touch as well.

I already love, love, love the memories that I will have watching those I love open these gifts. I'm sure I shall be cussed at as they manipulate the hot glue, but in a loving sort of way. Ahhh, family.

Are your gifts all wrapped? Have creative wrapping ideas to share? Bonus points for anything that is upcycled, creative, cheap and/or eco-friendly. Share your link in the comments so we can all delight in the goodness too and most importantly, have a happy, happy, happy, holiday filled with memories and optional cussing.

Warmly,

Christy

P.S. More photos of the gifts + my holiday decor can be found here.