Wednesday, May 31, 2023

June Every Day Makeup Shelf (IBY Beauty Spotlight) & May Mini Review

 Hey Y'all!


I really am liking the format we've been doing the past few month's with the mini review first.

Here's a reminder of what I was working with in May:

http://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/04/may-everyday-makeup-shelf.html

I'm going to start with my initial thoughts on the new (to me) items:

Juvia's Place Candy Shop Palette- Cute! The shadows I used all worked nicely. I was most curious about that pink & blue swirl shade and what would happen with it. For me, it's mostly just a blue shade. I really wasn't expecting much from it, but figured it would end up a blueish purple. My favorite shades are the top 3 in the palette. I do like them all, and as a color story this one was nice with a lot of complementary, cohesive shades, and a lot of look possibilities with just this one.

Rimmel Jelly Highlight- I actually only used these once, and I really liked them, but can't really pass any judgement yet.

The Crème Highlight- I used these a lot, I wish they were just a bit more pigmented from the start, but they are buildable. Overall nice highlight products.

Stila Mascara- Horrible. Flaky, Dry, a big fat NO. After doing a bit of research this specific mascara no longer exists.

Other Honorable Mentions:

Y'all know I've talked about really liking the Exuviance Sunscreen, Lip Smackers SPF Balm, and Marc Jacobs Lipstick before. They're the stand out's for the month.

What didn't I use?

The Kevyn Aucoin (Blood Roses) Lipstick, it just never felt like it was fitting in with any look. 

Have you tried any of these products? What are your thoughts? Share in the comments below!


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JUNE SHELF:

IBY Beauty Brand Spotlight!

As I've mentioned before I am a brand ambassador for IBY Beauty.

For June I pulled every product I own (except Glam since I had just pulled it recently, and it's less of a Summer palette IMO) from the brand, and filled in with other items as needed. I'm 99% positive I pulled too much, but I really wanted to share my love for the brand.

This video shows my Ambassador Welcome Package, every other product I've purchased myself:


Here's my latest order, I'm posting this here, because I had mentioned purchasing some more of the lipstick shades:


IBY Beauty (pronounced I.B.Y.) is a lifestyle cosmetic brand created in sunny Los Angeles, CA. Here at IBY, we take inspiration from you, beauty fans who love to create, explore, and live life colorfully. A small diverse team of beauty lovers ourselves, we believe in a community built by kindness, confidence and the power of makeup. We encourage self-expression and believe in redefining beauty standards with cruelty-free products that won’t break the bank. We are eager to learn more about you, and create beautiful things together.

 #inspiredbyyou


Here's the shelf:


I'm trying to use up the Marc Jacobs, as it's getting older. The Jeffree Star seems to be getting a touch dry, so I'd like to get some more use out of it as well.


Palettes & Singles! I'm not typically a single shadow user, but the green shade especially is intriguing, and I'm excited to try it!


I did have two cheek to cheek duos but found the other a bit too red for me, so I passed it to my sister.
Absolutely too many highlighters picked, the goal is to try them all at least once in June. I've already used 24k Magic, and Prosecco a few times and know that I love those shades. 

Also please be diligent about sunscreen! I really like Supergoop products, they're long lasting, not sticky, and don't smell too sunscreen-y. 


I guess I was in a pulling makeup mood, I also grabbed these two colored eyeliners... Let's see if I use them.


Overview of everything:


I do have a limited coupon code for 25% off your purchase:

https://www.ibybeauty.com/?rstr=CraftinWife

CraftinWife25 at check out!

(They also offer free shipping at $35!)


Which product are you most interested in? Share in the comments below!


Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife


Monday, May 29, 2023

My Top 5 Craft Must Haves

 Hey Y'all!


When coming up with this list I tried to keep it as a general/generic craft related top five list. So there's something for any crafter to take away here. I could absolutely do a top five (or ten) with Cricut related items only. Let me know if you're interested in that in the comments below!

In no particular order here are my current top 5's!



1) Good Scissors are a must! My absolute favorite are the Fiskars Power Cut. You can easily adjust the tension of the blades, and they're comfortable in my hand. They cut extremely well. The only negative about them is where the Cricut* pair come in, the Fiskars just aren't great in small places, with smaller detailed cuts. 

*I couldn't find the Cricut scissors outside of an Essentials Tool bundle, but I know even this bundle is cheaper at other retails.

From Fiskars:

Optimized for size, power and precision, Fiskars® PowerCut(TM) Shears (9 in.) feature innovative, patent-pending, strength-enhancing curved blades for up to 2X more cutting power. Premium, heavy-duty, stainless steel blades power through thick materials such as cardboard, cork, decorative metals, and leather with fewer snips, making these shears just the right tool for bigger home décor DIY projects. A serrated edge makes it easier to grip slippery materials, while enlarged, ergonomic handles include Softgrip® touchpoints for enhanced comfort and control. Additionally, an included sheath helps protect these innovative blades during storage and travel

From Cricut:

You'll be equipped to handle any material that strikes your fancy – vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and more. A go-to tool kit for all Cricut cutting machines.

With this combo, I never reach for my other scissors anymore. Just these 2 pair do every job I need scissors for!


2) A Large ruler is another top tool for me. I use it to measure materials, get an eye on a straight line, center designs, etc. (Y'all know how a ruler works.) I like a wider, 18 inch, clear ruler for my needs, and the Cricut one was on clearance at Walmart, but any ruler will work.

From Cricut:

Make every measurement count with this essential, go-to crafting ruler. With its 3” x 18” size, you’ll enjoy versatility and precision for almost any crafting activity. A frosted finish with easy-to-see measurements gives you visibility on both light and dark surfaces. Plus, measurement marks in 1/8” increments make it easy to account for even the smallest details, while angled lines at 30, 45, and 60 degrees give you an edge at every critical angle.


3) Self Healing Cutting Mat- I have three! I desperately need a new large one, but these two smaller ones are nice for most of my projects. (My big boy is Fiskars 16x22.) These two are X-ACTO, and Crafters Square (Dollar Tree). I do prefer the X-ACTO since it's a better size (newer ones are larger) and a bit thicker, but at just over a dollar the Crafters Square can't be beat. 


4) In addition to good scissors, I also use a rotary cutter fairly often. I got the Westcott 45mm first because I needed one for a specific project, and while it's good, I actually reach for the Crafters Square  28mm more often.

Westcott:

The trimmers from Westcott are the perfect combination of design and performance. Featuring Titanium Bonded cutting technology and the contemporary design that Westcott is famous for, this replacement blade will deliver unparalleled performance.

  • 8.75 X 3.5 X 0.75
  • Titanium Bonded blades are 3X harder than stainless steel; blades stay sharper longer
  • Cuts multiple layers of fabric
  • Great for trimming utility fabrics, burlap and denim
  • Manufacturers lifetime warranty

Crafters Square:

Creative thinkers now have a tool for multiple purposes! Teachers, students, crafters, scrap-bookers, seamstresses, DIY enthusiasts, artists, and more have the unique opportunity to cut almost any material with the help from these roller cutters by Crafter's Square®! They are great for cutting paper, fabric, vinyl, and more! Each cutter is 5.75x1.75-in. with a 28mm. blade and fits perfectly in a pocket, bin, or basket.

I'm glad to have both, the 45mm blade will be easy to find when replacement time comes. I just find the smaller easier to hold, and control.


5) Markers! I have several brands, but the most of Spectrum since they are the best affordable marker I've tried. (I'd love to try Ohuhu, and hear your experiences with those and other brands.) Spectrum have a huge selection, and pride themselves on being an affordable art brand for all. I do like them best out of the brands I own; Copic, Crayola, Prisma, Artist Loft, and a few markers from other brands. 

Spectrum's Line Up:


What item(s) would you put in your top 5? Share in the comment section below!


Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Books!! What I've Been Reading!

 Hey Y'all!


Admittedly I haven't been reading much, unless we want to count small articles online, and the usual magazines that show up monthly.


I did start the Immigrant Bride Collection at the suggestion of a commenter on my March book blog, but I haven't finished it yet.


TBR Stack:


The Immigrant Bride Collection is actually just ok. As I've previously stated I've just come to realize short stories (especially those under 5 chapters) really just are not my thing, even when I do enjoy them. In full disclosure I don't think I'm going to bother finishing the book, I'm about 2/3 into it.

Also while the Christian theming is much less "in your face" than the Orphan Train Series, in fact not even mentioned in one of the stories from my recollection, it's there, so if that's not your thing- skip these too.

I picked a lot of these all up at either a friends of the library sale, a book freebie event, or a local book store- so I didn't really check them out to thoroughly before purchase.


Lofty dreams of a new and better life lured untold thousands to America between 1775 and 1906. Among those “huddled masses yearning to be free” are nine displaced individuals dumped upon American soil and trying to figure out how to pursue happiness, make a home, and secure love. Journey with them through this beautifully packaged collection of nine romances by top Christian authors, including Judith Miller.


Here are a few reviews I liked:

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 18, 2018

not at all what I was expecting. I found these stories to be dry history lessons. They were not about brides coming to America and how they assimilated; rather they are love stories set in various places. For example, one is an American woman falling in love with a Hessian soldier quartered in their house. She was not an immigrant bride. I read the whole book and wanted my time back.

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 31, 2016
The title is a bit deceptive. When I read the title I was thinking the brides were all coming from overseas to marry. There was a mix of this throughout the novella. I really liked quite a few of these stories but there was a couple I wasn't fond of. Overall, it was a great read and enjoyed the book.

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on November 25, 2015
Some of the stories were going fine and then the ending came to fast and you were left hanging. It was like the author suddenly remembered that it was a short story and had to hurry to finish in a certain number of pages.

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on August 29, 2013
it was a book worthy of reading, but i was expecting something different. I was expecting a book about real immigrant brides, where they came from and why and how they fared in America.


I agree with the consensus, some of the the stories were good, some just ok. If short stories are your jam, and the theme is to your liking, maybe give it a read. Otherwise skip it.


What have you read lately? Any favorites? Share them below!


Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife


Wednesday, May 24, 2023

GRWM- A Typical Days Routine

 Hey Y'all!

In this blog I'll share a bit of my getting ready routine for the day, and night. I decided not to film much of it, but if it's something you'd like to see leave a comment below & I'll add it to the blog schedule in the near future.


Getting Ready:


Products Used:
Shorts from Walmart, either last year or 2020.
Shirt from Old Navy, year unknown
Currently online Walmart had nothing similar enough to link, Old Navy does not currently have a peach/orange, but other colors are in stock.

Makeup:
...also I did end up using mascara too!




I am a Brand Ambassador for IBY Beauty, and have a discount code:
CraftinWife25 for 25% off your purchase! Free shipping on orders over $35.

My typical day starts with a trip to the bathroom, then I comb my hair and decided if it's a clip, ponytail-esque, or headband day. (Y'all seriously leave your hair style/cut suggestions below!) Then I go open the backdoor (kitchen) and grab a glass of water. After that I check email, social media, and my plans for the day. If I'm going to wear make up I do it next. Then maybe breakfast, some days I don't feel like food first thing since we have a big lunch between 11:30-1pm. 

At least two mornings a week I post a minimum of five items to our poshmark (Hubby handles eBay). If anything needs mailed out for those we'll package it together and get it out by 2pm.

Cleaning the room of the day is next up on my agenda, either before or after lunch- sometimes both depending on the job.

As hubby is getting ready for work I watch YouTube videos and occasionally pack his dinner/snacks while planning mine (usually a salad, leftovers, or some other quick meal- typically a lunch type meal).

At 3pm I'll do my other task for the day- either blogging, filming for tiktok, crafting, finishing or packing orders, paperwork, etc. I try to finish that by 8, which is hubby's dinnertime & his phone call home. If I haven't had dinner, I'll either eat "with" him, or at 8:30 when his break is over.

Tuesdays & Fridays my Mom comes over for dinner, so I do eat breakfast those days because I don't eat lunch with hubby. Mom and I typically eat around 4:30 or 5pm. We just hang out, chat, watch bad TV, and eat. She usually leaves around 7pm and that's when I post my blog on Fridays and get anything else finished that I didn't do earlier in the day.

9pm I get ready for the night:
*Showering is after skincare every other night.

If I wore makeup I'll use a remover wipe first, then I wash my face.
Yesterday I used:
Generic Nighttime Makeup Remover Wipes (They're CVS brand, but I got them at our local grocery store.)
Facial Towel from Dollar Tree or TJ Maxx (can't remember)

Once or twice a week I'll use a more gentle cleanser with my Facial Cleansing Brush. (There are a lot of different brands, and I've owned 2 different ones over the years, they both work about the same to me.)


Mid Wash:
Last night I chose these moisturizers/masks since my skin has been so dry lately: 

I do tend to swap out my night time moisturizers fairly often.


All ready for the night, other than changing into PJs...

One I finish my nighttime skincare routine I'm done for the day. I'll use this time (between 9:30ish and 12) to watch TV, read, play Sims, plan the next day, finish or pack any orders that didn't get done earlier, etc.

What's your typical day look like? Let me know in the comments below!


Have a great day,
Craftin' Wife


Monday, May 22, 2023

Cricut Design Space Updates Part 2

 Hey Y'all!

Since I did an update blog earlier in the month I wasn't sure when I scheduled this one if there'd be anything new, or if I'd just end up doing a refresher blog on Design Space.

The team over at Cricut must be working overtime with the updates they've been giving here lately. I'm impressed at the time they're spending making the mobile experience better!

Here's the link to the Design Space Series if you need some help figuring it all out:

Previous Parts-

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2022/12/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-pc-android.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/01/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-pc-part.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/01/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-android.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/01/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-pc-and.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-pc-part.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-android.html

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-cricut-design-space-on-pc.html


Mobile Updates:



Warp text-
Available for access members, features 24 text warping options.







Background Remover- Auto Remover for access members, however background remover is free for all.




New Layers Panel- The ability to name layers, and move them more easily.

I can see the naming of layers being handy for those larger multi layered projects, like shadowboxes. Much easier to keep everything in order. Especially if you refer to your layers panel to assemble the project.








Mobile really had several big updates in a short time span. Which is your favorite? Since I really only use the app with my Joy during travel, the most beneficial update for me is probably the layers panel labeling feature. Especially when I am working in a smaller space, I can just refer back to the screen to make sure I'm working in the right order.


PC Updates:

Just one update for PC this time...


Mat Preview Update- The ability to more freely move thing around on the preview screen mat (make it screen). I have been moving things around on the mat as long as I can remember, but it's a feature not may knew about. What's new? The use of the arrow keys to make minute movements, and the ability to hide/unhide items.

When the item is hidden this icons panel shows up below your mat. Just click on the image icon to bring it back on the mat.


I don't see myself using the hide option, since I do that on the design screen when need be. However the use of the arrow keys is a great feature for me. I like to move my images away from the red lines a bit & this will help move it a little at a time.



Which new feature is your favorite? What would you like to see in Design Space in the future? Share in the comments below!


Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife

Friday, May 19, 2023

ONE MONTH 'TIL MY 41st Birthday!!!

 Hey Y'all!

I still don't know what 40 is supposed to feel like, but all I do know is for me it changes daily. I'm so blessed to be here on this Earth, and thankful for each day. 

Next month, before my birthday I have another PET scan, then I will see the doctor again after (on the 26th). 

Before that I do have a craft fair set up. It's another first time event, so I'm not sure what to expect but they seem to really have a solid plan:

https://hawkinscountyfamilyfestival.com/

It looks like a good time for the whole family, so if you're local stop by & say Hi!


Plans for my birthday?

Nothing concrete yet... I'd like to take a camping trip, but haven't made any plans yet, so I'm sure all the bigger/state parks are booked. I also don't want to go more than 50mi since it would only be a weekend trip. Hip Camp has a few viable options for under $25 a night, so I'll have to get with hubby and make a decision soon.

If we can't swing a camping trip, a day on the water sounds fantastic too. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, and swimmin' holes nearby.


What do I want for my birthday?

The above, LOL. Also, books, makeup, craft supplies, etc...

But here's my amazon wish list:


FUN FRIDAY:

Mine's either Mint Chocolate Chip, or Cookie Dough!


Have a great day,
Craftin' Wife


Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Current Beauty Favorites- Top 5!

 Hey Y'all!

Can you believe we're already in mid-May! That's crazy!

Today I'll be sharing my current top 5 beauty items.



In no particular order:

1) Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream-  $65- $260 USD
*I received mine through Influenster.

Charlotte’s award-winning, supercharged moisturizer for hydrated, dewy, plumper looking skin! 100% agree dull skin was instantly transformed*

I've noticed a drastic improvement using this product recently, especially since radiation made all my skin so dry. The scent is light, and doesn't bother me, and dissipates fairly quickly.  
It works well to moisturize my skin, and the few wrinkles I have do have appear smaller/lesser. 
While I am really liking the product I can see it being a bit too much/too heavy for Summer soon. 

Would I purchase? Maybe. $65 is a lot of money for a moisturizer, but it does work well and a little goes a very long way. 


2) IBY BeautyShade Lipstix in shade 213- Normally $12 USD, Currently on sale as of the posting of this blog for $6!!

Our Shade Lipstix Pencils come in 6 gorgeous and versatile colors and deliver a burst of moisture and full color payoff for your lips. Enriched with super rich Shea Butter to nourish and condition lips,  this creamy matte formula glides on while its pencil shape allows for a precise finish.

These lipsticks (I have the red {Prom King} as well) are perfect for a full on lipstick, or a liner. They glide on and don't budge unless I've ate. I also love that they're cruelty free, as well as vegan.  They pair especially well with the Gloss'd Up Lip Toppers.

Would I purchase? Yes, am going to buy one or 2 tomorrow when I can decide between Lalaland, Fri-nally, and Hermosa.

I am a brand ambassador for IBY, but am not paid for any review. I always keep it real here. If you're interested in purchasing I do have a coupon code for 25% off your total: CraftinWife25

*This is the only affiliate link in this blog.


3) Dollar Tree Jelly Hair Spirals (4ct)- $1.25 obviously.

I got the blue ones first and they are a bit larger than the newer stock. Both sizes are prefect for my current hair. I can't quite get it all in a pony tail yet, but it's close. The back always falls out some. They're easy to use, but don't leave the dreaded bump like typical hair ties. Also, these don't tangle up in my hair like others do.

Would I re-purchase? Well hopefully I won't need to for a good long while, but yes.


4) Lip Smackers Lip Balm 30 SPF- Price varies widely, but available at most large retailers. Link is the cheapest I found, at $3.49 Rite Aid. I found mine at Dollar Tree.

This was an impulse purchase at the check out. I keep losing the Sun Bum ones, which I do also like. I will say this feels less like sunscreen like than Sun Bum. I also like that the scent is less overpowering on these as well. 

Would I re-purchase? Yes, if cheaper than Sum Bum, if not no I'd switch back. This says nothing about quality, but just the fact that on some things I'm more price driven in purchasing.


5) Exuviance Anti Aging Facial Sunscreen (SPF 30)- $82 USD

*This is another lucky Influenster item.

This firming face cream with Retinol visibly refines skin texture and helps restore a more even, luminous and youthful complexion while UV filters and a triple antioxidant formula containing Pomegranate and Vitamins A and E shield skin from daily environmental aggressors and help fend off aging free radicals.

I absolutely love this sunscreen, and will be sad when it's empty. It's non comedogenic, doesn't have a fragrance, isn't heavy or greasy, on top of all that it's got anti aging ingredients too! By far my favorite sunscreen ever.

Would I purchase? No. While I absolutely love everything about this product I just can't see paying more than $80 for less than 2oz of product. Especially with something like sunscreen, which must be applied generously. 


What are your thoughts? Do you have any current favorite products? Share in the comments below!


Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife