Love jewelry making? Love challenges?

Here's a good book pick:

"Jewelry Design Challenge: 10 Materials * 30 Artists * 30 Spectacular Projects" (Lark Jewelry Books)
by Linda Kopp

Description:
Challenges are one of the hottest crafting trends, so we put a who's who of modern jewelry artists to the test. Chosen for their different aesthetic visions, 30 designers received a box containing nine jewelry supplies with the request that they create a piece using only those items, plus one “wild card” material of their choice. These are their show stopping designs, complete with how-to steps for making them.

Participating designers include:
Todd Reed o Thomas Mann o Joanna Gollberg o Tim McCreight o Boris Bally

Price: $13.21
Available at amazon.com

BTW:
For lots more creative crafts, collectibles and great books about them, go to:
http://www.larkcrafts.com
http://www.larkbooks.com
(Trust us! You will not be disappointed by the abundance of "soft and cozy" stuff on these sites!)

Celtic Thunder CD

Cozy Christmas music pick:

Perfect for background when decorating or entertaining for the holidays. Also, good to listen to when unwinding from the stress of holiday shopping. And, unlike some Christmas music, these songs are low-key and don't make your ears hurt from too many high notes being hit in a show-offy way...

Here's the product description from Amazon.com:
The newly recorded Celtic Thunder Christmas record features 14 all time Christmas favorites done Celtic Thunder style and includes "Winter Wonderland" "Let It Snow" " Silent Night" "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and more. Celtic Thunder has been the number one music show on PBS for six consecutive pledge periods.

Available at: www.amazon.com

Nice book to read over the holidays

If you enjoy a relaxing, fun read during the holiday season, here's a book recommendation:

"Velva Jean Learns to Drive" by Jennifer Niven.

This is definitely a page turner. Set in the mountains of Western North Carolina, the book chronicles the coming of age of Velva Jean, a character who kind of reminds me of "Scout" from "To Kill a Mockingbird," in that I found myself admiring her wide-eyed innocence and her growing sense of independence. Good read about a simpler time that was on the verge of becoming much less simple.

Here's a review:
From Publishers Weekly
"Niven makes some memorable moonspun magic in her rich fiction debut (after two nonfiction books) about 10-year-old Velva Jean Hart, a North Carolina kid determined to drive and sing at the Grand Ole Opry. After Velva Jean is born again, her daddy leaves and her mother falls ill, and not even Velva's bargaining with God can save her. Her brother, Johnny Clay, is some comfort, but Velva Jean grows up fast after promising her dying mother to heal people with her singing. At 16, Velva marries charismatic Rev. Harley Bright, a moonshiner's son, railroad fireman and part-time evangelist who later resolves to become a full-time preacher. But Velva Jean's independent streak (she wants to learn to drive), her singing (which sounds sinful to Harley's ear) and her friendship with a half-Choctaw, half-Creole blues musician fire up Harley's controlling jealousy. It's a touching read, funny and wise, like a crazy blend of Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, a less morose Flannery O'Connor and maybe a shot of Hank William."

Available at amazon.com

Gift idea for the serious reader/writer in your life.

Ever try to curl up in bed or sink back on the sofa and work on your laptop? It's not easy to do so comfortably. But, this product might offer a comfy solution.

Product description:

A Thai Pad for your iPad
Thai Pad in 100% silk offers a royal home for your iPad, Kindle or other electronic reader, providing the optimal angle for comfortable reading and working. (It works beautifully as a traditional book rest, too, of course.) Lightweight enough to sit comfortably on your lap, this may be the proper iPad propper for you.
•Provides the ideal angle for working on an iPad, Kindle or other electronic reader
•Offers comfortable, ergonomic support for your hands and wrists as you browse the Web or read a book.
•Holds both small and large hardcover books,
•Fold-out seat ensures balance,
•Made in Thailand with 100% silk,
•All colors except black have cream-colored accents; black is solid black,
•Filled with a hypoallergenic polyfiber,
•1.25 pounds,
•Opened, 12W x 12D x 6H,
•Closed, 12W x 6 1/4D x 7 1/2H

Cost: $39
from levenger.com

Inexpensive gift idea for the flower or pop-up book lover

Or you might want to but it for yourself too!
"Paper Blossoms: A Book of Beautiful Bouquets for the Table (Pop Up Book)" is available on Amazon.com (where it got mostly rave reviews from purchasers) for $23.10.


http://www.amazon.com/Paper-Blossoms-Beautiful-Bouquets-Table/dp/0811874192/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

What could more be soft and cozy than a kitten?

How about four of them being way adorable?

Check out this "kitten snuggle pile" clip.

Be sure to wait for the surprise near the end.

http://redux.com/f/1816498/Purina-Animal-All-Stars-Adorable-kitten-snuggle-pile

Nice gift

We here at Soft and Cozy love autumn and wind chimes, so this looks to us like a great, and affordable gift for a soft and cozy home.

Here's the product description:
Autumn Leaves Capiz Chime

Like a leafy bower, but one that makes soft music: gentle clinks and rustles. Colorful translucent leaves shimmer and dance in the wind. Each chime is handcrafted on Bali from capiz shells (shaped, sanded, and dyed by hand) strung on invisible nylon cord suspended from brown steel branches. Enjoy indoors or outdoors. Arrives assembled. 21" wide, hangs 14". Made by Woodstock.

Price: $29.95

Recycled fashion contest!

Recycle Design Contest
Okay, the previous couple of posts have inspired me to hold a contest.

If you like "Project Runway," and always wanted to try your hand at designing from scratch using unusual materials, you'll like this contest.

Mission: Create an outfit using recycled materials. (Including, but not limited to, paper, plastic, party decorations, wrappers, phonebooks, etc.)

Entry fee: $5
Submit: Photos of the front and back of your completed design, along with a brief description of the recycled materials you used for this outfit. Also include your name, address, email address and phone number.
Submit to: Recycle-wear contest, 4430 Oakley Road, Stokes, North Carolina 27884.

Deadline: The contest will close for entries on Jan. 31, 2011. No submissions will be considered after that date.

Entrants will be judged on creativity, overall design, and use of recycled materials.

One winner will be selected to receive a $50 gift certificate, and will be featured on this blog. A press release will also be submitted to various news outlets and Web sites, so the winning work will be publicized. The winner's photo(s) and name will also be featured on a Recycle t-shirt.

Great Web site!

Everything you need to spend a fun day making your home cozy and comfy seems to be on www.thriftyfun.com

The site features articles about home and family, contests, and great craft projects, including:

Supercute Thanksgiving centerpieces

and Super easy placemat throw pillows.

UFO-like Domepsace Rotating Wooden House

Called a "wooden cocoon" by Gizmag.com, this house is all about warmth and being "green."

According to Gizmag, in addition to have fresh wood smell, a Domespace home has strategically-placed sloped openings so that homeowners "benefit from light pouring through at some point during the day, brightening up the interior with more natural light than vertical windows can offer."

Sounds and looks comfy as can be home.

For the rest of the story, go to: http://www.gizmag.com/domespace-wooden-rotating-house-on-display-at-bordeaux-green-show/16663/

Awesome product for the home...

Especially if you have pets. We all know they are very good at helping make for a cozy home, but can also be a little smelly.

As can dinner odors, etc.

I just found and highly recommend Zero Odor.
It's available from stores such as Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target, and it's also easy to find online.

I used this product on a basket chair that I had bought which had become a favorite napping spot for my dogs. As a result of them being on it constantly, it smelled pretty bad. But, I sprayed the Zero Odor on it and now it doesn't smell at all.

No wire hangers, but candle holders okay.

From The Art Institute of Catalog, here's a cozy touch that will also make you feel "green."

It's a Recycled Wire Candleholder Set.
Item number: 123726
Cost: $188
Description:
Recycled wire never looked so appealing. Mod yet elegant, these candleholders bring a refined touch to your table. Finely balanced shapes and heights work together or individually. Handcrafted and eco-friendly. Requires standard taper candles (not included). Handcrafted items can be found in the museum’s collection.

Soft and cozy read

Book recommendation: Homer's Odyssey by Gwen Cooper

Book Description (from Amazon.com)
Once in nine lives, something extraordinary happens...
The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpaying job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen’s veterinarian called with a story about a three-week-old eyeless kitten who’d been abandoned. It was love at first sight.

Everyone warned that Homer would always be an "underachiever," never as playful or independent as other cats. But the kitten nobody believed in quickly grew into a three-pound dynamo, a tiny daredevil with a giant heart who eagerly made friends with every human who crossed his path. Homer scaled seven-foot bookcases with ease and leapt five feet into the air to catch flies in mid-buzz. He survived being trapped alone for days after 9/11 in an apartment near the World Trade Center, and even saved Gwen’s life when he chased off an intruder who broke into their home in the middle of the night.

But it was Homer’s unswerving loyalty, his infinite capacity for love, and his joy in the face of all obstacles that inspired Gwen daily and transformed her life. And by the time she met the man she would marry, she realized Homer had taught her the most important lesson of all: Love isn’t something you see with your eyes.

Homer’s Odyssey is the once-in-a-lifetime story of an extraordinary cat and his human companion. It celebrates the refusal to accept limits—on love, ability, or hope against overwhelming odds. By turns jubilant and moving, it’s a memoir for anybody who’s ever fallen completely and helplessly in love with a pet.

Another great home fountain idea

Here's the product description:

Stately yet soothing. Our fountain accent table embodies both those qualities while adding sophistication to any setting. Water flows from two medallions atop the faux granite columns into a pool below lit ethereally by LED lights. Glass top is removable for easy cleaning. Resin. Assembly required. Uses adjustable pump and AC adapter (included). 29 1/2" w x 17" h x 15 3/4" d.

Available from Midnightvelvet.com
Price: $189.95

Note: The above picture is from a lit room, but the picture in the catalog I saw from a dimly lit room makes the fountain look a lot more soothing.

Relaxing activity

The beach is one of the most relaxing images people can think of. Hence today's "soft and cozy" suggestion.

Build a sandcastle.

The best part is that it's a great, relaxing activity whether it's something you for fun or if you decide to go all artistic; whether you are young or old; whether alone or in a group.

Can't make it to the beach? You can always read about sandcastles instead.
For example:
Sandcastles Made Simple: Step-by-Step Instructions, Tips, and Tricks for Building Sensational Sand Creations [Paperback] by Lucinda Wierenga. Available from amazon.com.
$7.88

Reader Recommendation

Hi all. This item comes recommended by reader Cicely Walters from New York.

It's a towel warmer from Bed, Bath and Beyond.

Cicely says the towel warmer:
•Cuts down on the amount of towels that have to be washed (you know how kids are always using towels once and then leaving them wet on the floor or in the hamper to be washed again).
•Doesn't require any installation since it's free-standing.
•Makes it more fun to get out of the shower on a cold morning.
•Also provides a nice way to get your pj's toasty before bed.

She does warn that it does get hot, so you might not want to use one if you have a big dog that can knock it over.

Price: $69.95

Product Description:
Warmrails Temperature Controlled Oil Rubbed Bronze Finish Towel Warmer and Drying Rack

This temperature controlled towel warmer and drying rack's electronic control panel offers high, medium and low settings. The Filatherm™ element uses less power than a regular lightbulb and allows you to use your Warmrails 24 hours a day. Perfect for drying towels as well as lingerie, baby clothes, bathing suits and more. Also reduces moisture and mildew. Features heated flat panels instead of traditional horizontal ladder or zigzag style tubing. Some assembly required. Measures 36 1/2" H x 23 1/2" W x 12" D. One-year limited warranty. UL listed.

More from Unique Decor Online

Here's the product description:
The one-of-a-kind Personal Treasure Trunk features a beautiful hand painted finish. The sturdy wooden trunk has a subtle floral pattern and the entire design is quite unique. Its universal motif would make it perfect for a cozy family room or to accent your master bedroom. Either way, it's highly collectable and can even be used as a storage stool.

The trunk is crafted by hand from ponderosa pine. Since each piece is created one at a time, no two are exactly alike. The hinged lid features brightly colored flowers and a spiky, shark's tooth border. The wooden sides of the trunk have a more subtle, stained appearance. The floral pattern is repeated from the top and incorporated all around the perimeter of the trunk. Whimsical sunbursts and spirals add a fun touch. Each decorative creation is signed by the artist prior to shipping.

Dimensions: 12" h x 19.5" l x 14" d
Furniture is handcrafted in Texas
Ships in four weeks
The Personal Treasure Trunk is handcrafted and ships within 1-2 weeks. Need it sooner? Call us at 800-262-9173.

Price: $249.95

Lighting pick

You've probably figured out that we here at Soft and Cozy love the warmth that decorative lighting can bring to a home.

Above is the latest pick from: www.uniquedecoronline.com

Product description:
Recycled Glass Confetti Nightlight
$39.95

Illuminate your decor with the recycled glass "Confetti" nite lite. Add an artistic splash of light and color to any hallway or room with this eco-friendly design. Created from recycled glass, each lovely light is one-of-a-kind, making it highly collectible and a simple, yet meaningful way to help conserve our resources. An included original and inspirational keepsake poem is included in the box.

The textural shades feature multi-color recycled glass accents for beauty and vibrancy. While each light will be similar, due to the individual handcrafted nature, no two will be exactly the same. Every nite lite comes boxed in hand stamped recycled materials.

•Night Light measures 3.5" x 4.5"
•Unique recycled glass design
•An eco-friendly accent piece for the home
•Collectible one-of-a-kind work of art

The Recycled Glass Confetti Nite Lite is handcrafted and ships within 1-2 weeks.

Zero gravity massage chair

Some of these sell for over two thousand dollars, but this massage chair is $299.95 at midnightvelvet.com.

It got four out of five positive reviews. One person didn't think it was "comtably." (You got me.)

Anyway, here's the product description:

Experience comfort like never before! Zero Gravity design reduces stress on your entire body—making it ideal for those with back problems. Four vibrating, massaging motors and heat add extra comfort, with time and intensity adjustable by remote. Soft vinyl cover gives it a stylish look that's easy to incorporate in any décor. A simple turn of the knob, and it adjusts the recline from upright to fully reclined (the zero gravity position that relieves pressure on the spine by raising the feet above the head). Sturdy steel frame. Massage/heat function uses AC adapter (included). Assembly required. 29" w x 42" h x 47" d. Choose tan or black.
Doctors recommend the Zero Gravity position to relieve pressure on the spine by elevating your feet above your head
•4 vibrating, massaging motors and heat
•Time and intensity adjustable by remote
•Fully reclining cushioned massage and heat

Today's pick: Wall fountain

I couldn't find any ratings for this product, but I am posting it because I like the idea of having a fountain you can hang on the wall (therefore, you don't have to worry about devoting a table to it or pets drinking from it). And it's fairly inexpensive.

$59.95 for orders prior to Dec. 15 (after that the cost is $69.95)

Here's the product description:

Illuminated by LED lights, the wall fountain evokes the sparkling calm of harbor lights on the water. Resin with submersible pump and AC adapter (included). 14" diam. x 3" d.

Available at: www.midnightvelvet.com

Comfort food time again

I highly recommend these, especially if you love traditional chocolate-covered cherries. These are just as good but less messy.

Plus, according to www.nutsonline.com, they also have health benefits including:
Health Tips

1. In addition to being rich in potassium, vitamin C, and B complex, research has shown that cherry consumption can help the body prevent heart disease and cancer, as well as improved bone health.

2. According to researchers, a flavonoid found in cherries that has anticarcinogenic properties called quercetin can help to prevent heart disease.

3. Anthocyanins found in cherries also block inflammatory enzymes, reducing pain. In fact, 20 cherries are 10 times as potent as aspirin and have positive effects on gout and arthritis pain.

Also available from Midnight Velvet (www.midnightvelvet.com)

This is definitely on our wish list here at SoftandCozy.

Here's the product description:
Bamboo Floor Lamp
New $89.95
Write Review

A fabulous, sculptural lighting option. Natural bamboo and metal frames a white fabric shade. Uses three 25-watt bulbs (not included). 10 1/4" diam. x 44" h.

Fountains are a neat way to create a relaxing ambience

Here are two I haven't seen before. Both available from www.midnightvelvet.com



Product description:

Vase Fountain
New $199.95
Find tranquility in motion as water trickles down a pile of stones, illuminated with soft light, inside this decorative vase. Place a 5" diam. potted plant on top of the vase to give it an even more peaceful aura. Includes an adjustable flow pump. Plant not included. Poly resin with chocolate and caramel painted finish. 12 3/4" w x 34" h x 12" d.




Product description:
The Potters' Art Fountain
$69.95
The soothing sounds of gentle splashing create a peaceful haven in your home, and the earthy colors of four tall vases make this fountain just as easy on the eyes. Resin. Uses AC adapter (included). 9 1/2" w x 23" h x 8 1/2" d.

Shadow boxes...

Can create really nice accents in every room of the house. Plus, it's a nice relaxing project to work on. Sort of a two for one Soft and Cozy item. Here's one I made awhile back:

Flower rug

Flowers can definitely add comfort to surroundings. This flower rug looks like it would do just that.

Here's the product description:

"Bring a bit of whimsy from the garden indoors with this delightful accent rug whether as a small sized scatter or a larger focal point for the room. This dahlia-inspired design features rich earthy garnet and rose mauve tones. Fine construction in 100% wool pile. Available in a variety of sizes. Each piece ships directly from the manufacturer. Please allow 1 to 2 weeks for delivery."

$109 to $679

Available at: www.softsurroundings.com

This is definitely a wish list item...

Because this mood lighting looks like it would add a lot of atmosphere to a room.

Here's the product description:

The dawning of a new experience. The new dimension of light, style and self expression. Mood Light is the innovative medium which allows you to create your own light scenarios. By a touch of the remote, step into a world of shimmering light and dazzling colors. Experience a new sensation of light, design and style.

From: www.earthtechproducts.com

Reg Price: $445.00
Sale Price:$339.00

And while your cat is hanging out in his beanbag chair...

...you can relax in yours. I found these online at www.amazon.com

Comfort Research Fuf Large Foam Chair, Tan Twill
by Confort Research
Price: $116.87

Comfort Research Wedge Cotton Twill Fuf Chair in Red
SALE PRICE: $139.00

As you can see, both look extremely comfortable and relaxing.

Keep your pet cozy too

Here's one suggestion for keeping your pet comfortable in your home.

This bed is available at: Doctors Foster and Smith

Prices range from $39.99 to $79.99 depending on size ordered.

Surround yourself with photos of your pets!

We've all heard about studies proving that animals help lower our blood pressure.
Here's a way to incorporate photos of your pets into your home or office in order to create more comfy/relaxing surroundings:

Send me a copy of your pet's photo and receive a larger version of the photo with a watercolor or other "special effects" version(s) (created in Adobe Photoshop) of that same photo or other pic on photo grade paper ready for framing.

Cost: $3 plus$2 shipping and handling for one 8" x 10." Please ask me about costs of other sizes. (I can also do people, places or other photos).

Email: barbbullington@yahoo.com (make sure to put "Pet Photo" in the subject line).

Here's my latest sample: (cat: Donovan)

Spoil your feet: Comfy foot pick

These look like the best slippers in the world. Great for puttering around the house in.

From LL Bean. (product number GL252670 $49.95)

Product description:
Key Features
Made from superior sheepskin
Soft shearling wraps completely around your foot
Lightweight indoor/outdoor sole

Tasha Tudor

About five or six years ago, around Christmastime, there was a special on TV about Tasha Tudor. She was a remarkable woman who lived in Vermont, loved Corgis and was really the master of creating a warm home and living life to the fullest through appreciation of the simple things.

An artist and illustrator, she created many children's books, paintings and Christmas card designs. And so much more!

A very interesting woman who lived life to the fullest! And she's also one of my role models.

Check out: http://www.tashatudormuseum.org/ for more information.

Making it easier to have a comfy home

Just found a neat Web site that lets you find the perfect air purifier for your habitat.
Air-Purifiers-America.com

•Compares air purifiers by price and a number of other attributes.

•Also lets you check comparisons of specific attributes, such as how well does the purifier help with asthma or allergies or odor (you know who you are, ha ha).

An overall great site that can help make researching the purchase of a new air purifier almost as easy as breathing.

Another light pick

Thought these were very neat. Could provide relaxation in home or office.
Available at: www.uncommongoods.com
$5-$48.

Here's the product description:
Invented by artist Adam Frank, this modern little oil candle casts an enchanting shadow from a tiny, stainless steel tree. As the flame flickers, the shadow of the tree moves like a light breeze is rustling its branches. A unique twist on a normal candle. Give one to your favorite hostess or light several at your next dinner party. The shadow's intensity and size will be affected by additional light in the room - the darker the room, the better the results. Comes with two containers of odorless, clean-burning liquid wax that last 17 hours each. Available in five styles (from left to right): Cedar, Nest, Magnolia, Pine, and Bloom. Sold individually. Set of two refills also available. Made in Brooklyn.

Today's relaxation pick: Let there be solar light

Found this Smart Solar Scroll Light on Amazon.com for $19.95. The customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

www.amazon.com/Smart-3011WRM1-Scroll-Light-Antique/dp/B0015B1TT4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1278431986&sr=8-1

Pets are cozy too!

We've all heard about studies proving that animals help lower our blood pressure.
Here's a way to incorporate photos of your pets into your home or office in order to create more comfy/relaxing surroundings:

Send me a copy of your pet's photo and receive a larger version of the photo with a watercolor or other "special effects" version(s) (created in Adobe Photoshop) of that same photo or other pic on photo grade paper ready for framing.

Cost: $3 plus$2 shipping and handling for one 8" x 10." Please ask me about costs of other sizes. (I can also do people, places or other photos).

Email: barbbullington@yahoo.com (make sure to put "Pet Photo" in the subject line).

Here are some more samples: