The earth is the LORD'S, and all it contains, The world, and those who dwell in it. -Psalm 24:1

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  • The New Look of Stencil

    Stenciling used to conjure up images of parochial folk-art and less-than chic patterns of leaves and grape-vines. Not any more. Stenciling is making a comeback in the latest decor trends and proves to be simple enough for both decorators and amateurs alike. I’m pretty comfortable with a paintbrush, but I’ve never stenciled a pattern onto a wall. That’s all about to change because our little powder bath downstairs is desperately needing an artistic makeover. Unlike wallpaper, paint is easy to change your mind on, and a fraction of the cost. Are you itching to add a little character to your casita? Here are some ideas to get you started. Pick one for me to do while you’re at it! (Source here.) (Source here.) (Source here.) (Source here.) Follow my Pinterest board for more wall stenciling inspiration!

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  • Owl Nursery On My Mind

    Up until about a week ago, we had not planned to repaint the nursery for Baby Cinco. It felt like a lot of effort for the fifth time. But then it occurred to me that it’s…THE FIFTH TIME. A possible last time. Not just another baby boy. He’s a unique baby. A brand new experience for the 5th time. So, we’re gearing up for a final nesting push. An owl nest, to be specific. For inspiration, I’ve put together a selection of favorite picks of owl art found on etsy. I promise to share more as I formulate a transformation plan. It’ll have to be in the next few weeks…because that’s all I’ve got left! 1. New Glasses For School 2. Owls on Blue Collage 3. Vintage Owl Wall Hanging 4. Retro Owls 5. Fantasy Tree 6. Retro Owl on Bicycle 7. Custom Owl Print 8. Old School Owl 9. […]

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  • Air Plant Love, Part 2 + Giveaway!

    I admitted to having a bit of a newfound obsession with air plants a few weeks ago, after being gifted a beautiful hanging glass bubble from a friend. How could I resist a plant so lovely and simple, yet requiring no dirt or daily watering?! All the loveliness of that terrarium I made with much less effort. I decided to order a mystery air plant grab bag of 5 air plants to begin my collection, confident I would find the perfect spot for the other 4 plants I would have left over after adorning my hanging bubble. And a perfect spot I found indeed! I decided to make an artsy floating display with a dried cholla cactus I picked up on a hike in the foothills here. I know it’s not for everyone, but it was just the right (free!) display for my little plants! Are you as intrigued as I am? […]

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  • Welcome Tour

    Hello, friends…welcome to a new look at GraceLaced! The new and improved site is up and running! After celebrating a milestone on this blog, I realized I had really done a poor job of organizing the first 500 posts, and wanted to go forth with a little more definition and purpose for the blog. This has become a special place for me, and your kind input and faithful support has been so encouraging. Thank you! Here’s a little tour: At the tippy top you’ll find links to the GraceLaced RSS feed, Facebook page, and Twitter feed. Please subscribe to this blog if you haven’t done so! You can also subscribe via email in the sidebar. I would so appreciate it if you would take a moment to sign up. You’ll notice I now have a portfolio page for my artwork. I am moving away from etsy, as generating inventory for […]

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  • I don’t know that looking good makes it to the top five of my daily priorities. Most days, I’m doing really well if I get a shower in. These are the days that my boys will say, “Mama, you look so beautiful!” Beautiful, because I actually did my hair and put on clothes that matched. This is a letter I recently received from a reader: Hi Ruth! I so enjoy your blog, and share your heart for your home and family! Thanks for helping me do better, even from afar…if you lived closer, I’m sure we’d be friends:) So, if you have two seconds, I have a question. Where do you shop for clothes? I have so little time and seem to only pick up things from Target these days! I was sorting through my clothes today…after 3 babes in 4 years, I don’t know what fits! I realized I […]

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  • I love custom orders. The best part of making handmade is making handmade with someone special in mind. Miss Judy requested a vintage-inspired apron with a matching tea cozy. Her style is super-feminine, and her favorite color combination is pinks and greens. I was so thrilled to find Heather Bailey’s Nicey Jane fabric line in “Kissing Booth.” It fit perfectly. Here was the plan: …and, now, here’s her new hostess set! I’m eager to ship it to her, just in time for all her Spring-time hospitality!

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  • My fashion designing dreams proved to be short-lived! Neither of my designs made it to the top 15 of the Shabby Apple Dress Design Contest, but you can see who did make it here. It was fun just to try!

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  • If you are susceptible to feminine dresses, you will find yourself swooning for the pretty confections offered at Shabby Apple Dresses. This online candy store is having a dress designing contest, and yours truly is entering two designs. If selected as a finalist, my design will be considered for their spring line based on popular vote. What are the chances? Fun to play designer for a day anyhow! Here’s the contest announcement: And, here are my entries: The “Ava”: in natural linen or linen-blend with ruffles in teal or white cotton. A detachable ruffled rose belt and covered buttons finish off this ultra-feminine look. I designed this dress to play off the ruffle trend with a classic, conservative profile. Wear it with playfully hued heels to liven up the tailored look. The “Faye”: in light gray knit on top and crisp gray cotton on bottom for a two piece look […]

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