Christmas in July 2026 - 01: Monday Mess Making


The month of July is when my sister Clara and I usually start our "Christmas in July" crafting.  We get a jump on holiday gifts and decorations, plus it gives us time to try new ideas to see if we like them.  In previous years I've missed getting started, but not this year.  I began with a revisit to a 30 Day Art Challenge 2024 project.
  

This time I solved the problems I had with my first attempt at these:

  • I used wood glue instead of hot glue to put the wooden pieces together.  I only used hot glue on the insert and that worked much better.
  • I made use of the eye hooks I use to add picture wire to my paintings (I've got plenty). This makes a much better looking and functioning hanger than twine held down by an unsightly amount of hot glue.
  • I cut the backings slightly smaller than preiously, plus I cut the chipboard backings with a sliding blade paper cutter.  This was so much more accurate than the ruler, pencil, and utility knife method I was using.  In the future, I would like to have a guillotine-style cutter.
  • I used the printable files provided by the author of the project instructions.  Now that I know the measurements, I may be able to make some of my own printables next time. 

In a few weeks when I make more of these, I may try adding some embellishments, or varying some of the paint colors.  We'll see. 

On another note:  who remembers Auntie's Baby Shower in a Bag?  Well, I've updated it, so click over there and take a gander.

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