Books & Looks (August)

 

August Wrap-Up: Makeup, Magic & Books

Hey Y'all, Amanda here, your Craftin' Wife- August is always such a funny month—it feels like summer is still in full swing, but at the same time I start noticing little hints of fall sneaking in. The evenings get a touch cooler, pumpkin-flavored everything starts popping up, and I find myself reaching for richer makeup colors and cozier books. It’s a month of transition, and I love leaning into both sides of it.

(I'm doing something new with the blog this month, let me know your thoughts in the comments below!)

✨ Makeup Moments
This month, I really had fun experimenting with new looks. Some days were all about bold, playful color—bright eyeshadows, shimmer that caught the light just right, and lip shades that demanded attention. Other days, I went for softer neutrals and subtle glam, the kind of looks that feel polished without being over the top. Makeup has always been one of my favorite creative outlets, and August gave me the chance to play.

I’ll be adding in photos of the looks I wore so you can see the variety—everything from summery brights to the first hints of fall tones. Each one felt like a little piece of art I got to carry with me, and I’m excited to hear which ones are your favorites. 

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📚 Books I Read in August
Of course, no month is complete without a good stack of books. August was a cozy reading month for me, and I loved mixing it up—romance, a little Christmas magic, and even some suspense. Here’s what I read:

• Unforgettable Cowboy by Debra Clopton – Sweet and heartfelt, this was the perfect cowboy romance to sink into. I loved the small-town charm and the way the story balanced family, love, and second chances.

• Hitched in Hawaii by Dhara Shah – A fun, lighthearted read that totally gave me tropical vibes. The destination wedding setting was adorable, and it was such a breezy book for summer.

• Melody’s Christmas by ID Johnson – Yes, I read a Christmas book in August, and I don’t regret it one bit! It was wholesome and cozy, with just enough festive cheer to make me excited for the holidays.

• The Billionaire’s Marriage Pact by Melody Archer – This one hit all the billionaire romance notes—sweet tension, drama, and a promise that made me want to keep turning the pages. Definitely a fun escape read.

• Counting on Cole by Cynthia Eden – A totally different vibe from the rest of my list, this one leaned into suspense and danger. It was a page-turner and gave me the perfect change of pace when I wanted something a little darker.

Reading in late summer has its own magic. Maybe it’s the heavy air, maybe it’s the feeling that the season is slipping away, but I always find myself lingering in stories a little longer. A few of these surprised me in the best ways, and all of them made August a little brighter. 

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1) I've already read, and mentioned this one in the early stages, but all versions of Dead Roads, Chris Outland are now available!!

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🍂 Looking Ahead
Now I’m turning my eyes toward September, and honestly, I can’t wait. Fall is my favorite time for creativity. Makeup looks shift into deeper colors, cozy reading nooks start calling my name, and crafting season really starts to sparkle. I have so many ideas swirling in my head right now—projects, palettes, and piles of books—and I’m excited to bring you along for all of it.

August gave me inspiration, but September feels like it’s ready to light a creative fire. Here’s to savoring the last glow of summer and stepping into the magic of fall together. 💕

Read on, and sparkle bright,

Amanda| Craftin' Wife's Creations

September Blog Schedule

 🍂 September Blog Schedule for Craftin’ Wife’s Creations

Hey friends! It's Amanda- your Craftin' Wife here. ✨

September is one of my favorite months — cooler air, cozy vibes, and a burst of creative energy as we head into fall. This month, I’m bringing you a mix of craft tutorials, beauty favorites, and lifestyle inspiration, all while sharing the ups and downs of being a creative soul living small.

Here’s what you can expect on the blog this month:

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Week 1

• Monday (Craft Blog): Why A Well Stocked Kit Is Your Best Creative Friend

• Wednesday (Beauty Blog): Makeup Essentials for Life on the Road: Staying Glam in an RV

• Friday (Lifestyle Blog): Staying Organized in Under 100sqft

Week 2

• Monday: Crafting Magic with My Cricut: Why This Machine Is a Game Changer

• Wednesday: My Easy Day & Night Beauty Routine for Life on the Road

• Friday: Finding Room for Books (and Embracing Digital Reading Without Losing the Magic)

Week 3

• Monday: Beginner Cricut Project: Personalized Vinyl Decal for Your Water Bottle

• Wednesday: My Must-Have Beauty Items for Life on the Road

• Friday: The Creative Struggle: Making Magic in a Small Space

Week 4

• Monday: Beginner Cricut Joy Card Tutorial

• Wednesday: Books & Looks – My Makeup Looks & Books I Read in September

• Friday: Crafting in Odd Places: Making Creativity Work Anywhere

Bonus Weekend Post ✨

Because September deserves a little extra cozy fun:

• Kid-Friendly Fall Craft: DIY Leaf Friends (With Dollar Store Supplies!)

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🍁 That’s a wrap on September’s blog lineup! Don’t worry — we still have some amazing ideas saved for October, like my Cozy & Classy Fall Craft: DIY Pumpkin Centerpiece and Stickers, Stickers, Stickers! (because who doesn’t love stickers?).

Stay tuned, stay inspired, and let’s make this September our most creative yet. 

💛 Amanda| Craftin' Wife's Creations

 

🍂 Fall Fun for All Ages: Craftin’ Wife’s Printable Fall Scavenger Hunt

Hey crafty friends,
Amanda here — your Craftin’ Wife — and today I’ve got a little extra magic for your fall season! Whether you’re on the road in your RV, camping in a national park, or just enjoying your backyard, this fall scavenger hunt is perfect for kids, adults, and the young at heart.

It’s a great way to get outside, explore, and notice all the little details that make autumn so special — plus it doubles as a fun family activity or a solo adventure. 🍁

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🌟 How It Works:

1. Print the scavenger hunt.

2. Grab a pencil or pen.

3. Head outside — in your yard, a park, or even a campground.

4. Look for each item on the list and check it off as you go!

You can make it competitive, timed, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. Don’t forget to take photos along the way — fall is too pretty not to capture!

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🍁 What You’ll Find on the Scavenger Hunt:

• Red, yellow, or orange leaf

• Pinecone or acorn

• Something crunchy underfoot

• A bird flying or perched nearby

• Animal tracks in the dirt or mud

• Something with a pumpkin or gourd pattern

• A fall flower (like mums or asters)

• A piece of “nature art” — a pattern in leaves, bark, or rocks

• Something soft (moss, fuzzy leaf, or feather)

• A spooky or fun fall decoration

• A squirrel or other woodland creature

• Your favorite smell of fall (bonus: describe it!)

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💡 Craftin’ Wife Tips:

• Make it extra fun: Add small prizes or stickers for completing each hunt.

• Go digital: Take photos for a “Fall Scavenger Hunt Gallery” to share online.

• RV-friendly: Keep a small bag or basket to collect items like pinecones or leaves — just don’t take anything prohibited from parks!

• Creative twist: After the hunt, use collected items to make a mini craft — leaf art, pinecone décor, or a seasonal centerpiece.

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🎨 Download Your Printable:

Print as many copies as you need, or laminate and reuse each year. It’s perfect for road trips, fall festivals, or cozy afternoons outside.

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🍂 There you have it! A simple, fun, and engaging activity to celebrate the best season of the year.

Have fun hunting, crafting, and discovering all the little wonders of fall. And don’t forget to share your finds with me — I love seeing everyone’s creativity in action!

Stay crafty and curious,
Amanda 💖
Craftin’ Wife’s Creations

 

Craftin’ Q&A with the Craftin’ Wife: Tiny Spaces, Big Ideas, and Glittery Truths

Hey crafty friends!

Amanda here — your Craftin’ Wife — back with a fun little Q&A all about crafting while living life on the road. I get tons of questions about how I manage to stay creative in such a small space, how I store supplies, and how I avoid being buried under a mountain of glitter (spoiler: I always avoid it 💁‍♀️).

Let’s get into your most-asked questions!

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✂️ Q: How do you craft in such a tiny space?

A: Honestly? With creativity, flexibility, and a lot of organizing bins. I’ve learned to work in little bursts — sometimes on the bed, sometimes at a picnic table outside. I keep my projects small and mobile, and I’ve gotten really good at turning any flat surface into a workspace.

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🧶 Q: What kinds of crafts are “RV-friendly”?

A: Great question! I love paper crafts, card making, vinyl decals, Cricut projects, light sewing, and small-scale DIYs like journaling or hand lettering. Anything that doesn’t require power tools or take over the whole RV is fair game!

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🎨 Q: How do you store your supplies?

A: Clear bins, the Joy has it's own travel bag, and labeled zip pouches are my best friends. I keep my most-used items in easy reach and rotate things seasonally. The trick is to keep it neat — because clutter in a tiny space is chaos.

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💡 Q: How do you stay inspired while traveling?

A: Every new town, campground, or scenic view gives me ideas! I keep a craft idea notebook and snap photos of colors, patterns, or quirky signage that sparks something. Inspiration is everywhere — even at the world’s biggest ball of twine. (Been there. Still obsessed.)

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✨ Q: Glitter. How do you handle it?

A: Short answer? Carefully. Long answer? I don’t use loose glitter. I prefer glitter vinyl, glitter cardstock, or self-contained glitter pens. Loose glitter is the herpes of crafting — it never goes away. 😂

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👜 Q: What’s one crafting item you can’t live without?

A: My Cricut Joy! It’s compact, powerful, and perfect for RV life. It lets me make cards, decals, labels, and small designs without needing a ton of space. Plus, it fits in it's own bag, with the Easy Press Mini!

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Got more questions? I’d love to answer them in a future Q&A — just drop them in the comments, message me on Instagram, or yell across the campground (okay, maybe not that last one 😅).

Until next time, stay creative and crafty no matter where life takes you!

With glue on my fingers,
Amanda, The Craftin’ Wife 💖

 

Beauty Q&A with the Craftin’ Wife: Road Life, Real Talk & Radiance

Hey beautiful friends!

Amanda here — your Craftin’ Wife — and today I’m answering some of the most common (and fun!) questions I get about keeping up with beauty routines while living full-time on the road.

Yes, it is possible to stay glam in an RV — with a little creativity, the right tools, and a good sense of humor. So let’s dive in!

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💄 Q: How do you store your makeup in such a tiny space?

A: It’s all about compact storage and being super intentional! I use a small clear bag for my daily go-tos and seasonal items. I also love makeup bags with built-in brush holders. Everything has a home, and I keep it simple — if I don’t use it regularly, it doesn’t stay in the RV. My "big" makeup case is a vintage travel case, all the things I take are kept in it. and I change some things out seasonally when we return to TN for doctors appts.

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🌞 Q: Do you still wear full face makeup every day?

A: Nope — I’m all about a functional glow. Most days I go for a tinted SPF, and mascara. It’s quick, fresh, and doesn’t melt off in the summer heat! On special days or content filming days, I love going full glam — glitter cut crease, anyone?

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🚿 Q: How do you take off your makeup without wasting water?

A: Makeup remover wipes and micellar water are my BFFs! I keep a little stack of reusable makeup pads and use a no-rinse cleanser most nights. On shower days, I’ll double-cleanse properly, but daily? It’s quick, efficient, and water-friendly.

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🌬️ Q: Does the weather affect your skincare?

A: Absolutely. Travel takes my skin through all kinds of climates, so I adjust often. I keep a hydrating serum for dry spots and a mattifying moisturizer for humid areas. And SPF is always in my routine, rain or shine!

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💅 Q: What’s one beauty item you can’t live without on the road?

A: Just one? That’s rude. 😂 But if I had to choose — probably my cream blush stick. It works as blush, lip tint, and even eyeshadow in a pinch. (Runner-up: mascara! Small item, big impact.)

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✨ Q: How do you stay inspired with your beauty looks when you’re on the move?

A: I love finding inspiration in our travels — desert neutrals, forest greens, sunset shimmer... nature is the best palette! Plus, I follow beauty creators online, and sometimes just trying a new lip combo gives me life.

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Have more questions? Drop them in the comments or message me on Instagram @craftinwife — I’d love to do a Part 2! 💕

Until then, stay radiant and resourceful,
Amanda, The Craftin’ Wife 💖

Life W/ A Craftin' Wife: ShadowWolf Studios Guest Post

 

Life With a Craftin’ Wife: A ShadowWolf Studios Guest Post

Hey everyone,
I’m Chris — the guy behind the camera, the wheel of the RV, the code, the coffee, and the chaos. Most folks know me as ShadowWolf Studios, the gaming and storytelling half of this dynamic duo. But today, I’m showing up here, on Amanda’s blog, to talk about what it’s really like being married to the one and only Craftin’ Wife.

Spoiler alert: it’s awesome.

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🎀 Glitter, Glue, and Genius

First off — let me just say: Amanda is ridiculously talented.

I’ve watched her turn dollar store finds into boutique-level decor, whip out Cricut projects like magic, and paint her face with colors that belong in a comic book. (That’s a compliment, by the way — her Halloween looks are better than anything I’ve seen in a video game cutscene.)

She sees the world through sparkles and textures, and somehow, everything she touches ends up more beautiful than it started. Including this RV… which would honestly just be an old EMS bus with tangled cords and dust if it weren’t for her.

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🧠 Left Brain Meets Right Brain (and They Road Trip Together)

We approach creativity from different directions. I live in code, pixels, game engines, and plot twists. She lives in cardstock, colors, glue guns, and beauty blends.

But somehow, our brains sync up in the weirdest, most magical ways.

When I’m stuck on a storyline or debugging a game, she’s there with a fresh idea or a completely unrelated suggestion that somehow breaks me out of the loop. When she’s frustrated mid-project, I’ll hand her a snack or say something stupidly nerdy and get her laughing again.

We balance each other out — tech and tactile, digital and DIY.

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🚌 Living, Working, Creating… in Under 100 Square Feet

Is it always easy? No.
Is it worth it? Absolutely.

Living and working together in a tiny home means we’ve learned how to read each other’s moods, respect creative flow, and tag-team the daily chaos. I’ve learned to navigate around a table full of cardstock and rhinestones. She’s learned not to panic when I start mumbling in game dev speak at 11am.

And through it all, we never stop cheering each other on.

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💬 My Favorite Moments?

• When she squeals over a perfectly weeded decal.

• When I hear her talking to her followers like they’re old friends.

• When she quietly slips me a snack while I’m mid-code.

• When we stay up too late, editing video, brainstorming, and laughing until our sides hurt.

• When someone online says “I love what you two are doing” and I realize... yeah. So do I.

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❤️ Being the Wolf Beside the Craftin’ Wife

Amanda’s passion is contagious. Her creativity? Limitless. And her love for what she does — and for the people who follow her journey — inspires me to be better, dream bigger, and create bolder.

She’s not just a crafter or a content creator. She’s the heart of this whole operation. And I’m proud — so proud — to walk this road beside her, one quirky campground and late-night project at a time.

Thanks for letting me share a little of my side of the story.

Stay curious,
Chris
ShadowWolf Studios

How To: 30 min (or less) Projects- Jewelry Organizer

 

🎀 DIY Travel Jewelry Organizer – No-Sew, No-Stress, Road-Ready ✨

Hey friends!
It’s Amanda, your Craftin’ Wife, back with my very first road-tested, RV-approved DIY tutorial! If you’re anything like me, you love wearing cute earrings, necklaces, or even a bold bracelet now and then—but traveling full-time makes organizing (and protecting!) your jewelry a whole thing.

Enter this super simple, super stylish DIY Travel Jewelry Organizer—no sewing machine required, just a few dollar store supplies and a pinch of that crafty magic. 🌟

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🧰 Supplies You’ll Need:

(Everything should fit in your craft bin!)

• 1 small canvas or zipper pouch (cosmetic bag size)

• Craft felt (1–2 sheets)

• Scissors

• Hot glue gun & glue sticks

• Thin ribbon or elastic

• Small snap buttons (optional, for extra fancy)

• A binder ring or keyring (for easy hanging)

• Decorative trim, fabric scraps, or stickers (optional—make it yours!)

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🧵 Let’s Get Craftin’!

Step 1: Cut Felt Strips

Cut your felt into 2-3 strips about 1.5" wide. These will be glued into the pouch to hold earrings and pin back jewelry. You can make some a little longer to drape necklaces through.

Step 2: Glue in Your Holders

Open your canvas pouch fully. Inside, glue the felt strips horizontally along the back wall of the pouch, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart. Only glue the ends of each strip so the middle stays open for sliding in jewelry.

Optional: Glue one strip vertically if you want to create loops for rings or bracelets.

Step 3: Add a Necklace Solution

Take a piece of ribbon or elastic and glue it across the inside top edge of the pouch. This is where you can clip necklaces with mini clothespins or safety pins. For extra points, add snap buttons or velcro to secure them.

Step 4: Decorate the Outside

Because, duh.
Use stickers, iron-on vinyl, paint pens, or fabric scraps to give the outside of your organizer some you energy. I went with glitter ribbon, naturally. 💁‍♀️

Step 5: Add a Hanger (Optional)

Use a binder ring or keyring to attach a loop on the zipper pull. That way you can hang it in your RV closet or from a command hook at camp.

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💡 Craftin’ Wife Tips:

• No pouch? Use a piece of craft felt folded in half like a book!

• Super organized? Add little labels with washi tape or sticker tabs.

• Kids version? Great for travel charms, pins, or even a mini art supply kit.

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✨ Why I Love It:

This little pouch makes finding my earrings in the morning so much easier. No more digging through drawers or having everything tangled in a sandwich bag. It takes less than 30 minutes to make and keeps my sparkly stuff safe on the go.

I’ve got mine hanging right inside a cabinet door in our RV—small space, big style!

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📸 Share Your Version!

If you make your own, tag me @CraftinWife on most social media or drop a photo in the comments below—I love seeing your creations!

Until next time,
Stay crafty (and cute),
🖤 Amanda
The Craftin’ Wife

ShadowWolf Studios (aka My Husband, author Chris Outland) Appreciation Blog

 

Two Creatives, One Road: The Joy of Living and Dreaming Together

Hey friends,

It’s Amanda — your Craftin’ Wife — and today’s blog is a little extra special. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on just how lucky I am to live this wild, wonderful life not just as a full-time traveler, but as one-half of a creative duo.

Life on the road is an adventure on its own, but doing it with someone who gets your creative soul? That’s next-level magic.

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🎮 Meet My Favorite Human: Chris (aka ShadowWolf Studios)

Let’s take a second to gush about my husband, best friend, tech genius, editor, co-pilot, late-night brainstorm buddy, and creative partner in chaos — Chris, the brilliant mind behind ShadowWolf Studios.

Chris isn’t just a gamer or coder — he’s a storyteller at heart. He crafts digital worlds with the same passion and depth I bring to my handmade creations. Whether he’s writing lore for a game, a new book, or building something entirely from scratch, he’s always pushing himself to make something authentic and original.

And the best part? We get to inspire each other every single day.

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🧠 Creative Energy on Wheels

We don’t just share a home — we share ideas. Our RV is a rolling studio, full of yarn, vinyl scraps, game notes, camera gear, notebooks, chargers, and a thousand dreams-in-progress. It’s chaotic, yes — but it’s ours. Some mornings he’s tinkering with code while I’m planning a craft tutorial. Other nights, we’re curled up editing a video together, laughing at bloopers and brainstorming the next big thing.

We celebrate each other’s wins — whether it’s a perfectly weeded Cricut design or a finished game build. And when the creative burnout hits? We remind each other to rest, reset, and refuel — usually with tacos and bad movies.

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🚐 Creative Living = Creative Loving

When two creatives share a life, the love looks different. It’s in the way we make space for each other’s passions, the way we hype each other up, and how we see the world through two totally different lenses — and still choose to walk the same road.

Chris supports my messy craft chaos, listens to my rambling ideas, and always reminds me that what I create matters. And I do the same for him — even when I don’t understand what half the buttons on his keyboard do. 😂

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💡 Inspiration Around Every Bend

Traveling full-time feeds our creative fire. Every small town, roadside oddity, quiet forest, or eerie gas station sparks something in one (or both!) of us. We capture it, sketch it, write it, build from it.

We’ve learned that inspiration doesn’t come from waiting — it comes from doing, from seeing, from being out there together, chasing it.

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❤️ So Yeah… Being Two Creatives on the Road? It’s Everything.

It’s messy and magical. It’s exhausting and energizing. It’s full of glitter and glitches, crafts and code, detours and dreams.

I wouldn’t trade it for anything — especially not the man who drives this big ol’ bus, cooks dinner while I’m editing, makes me laugh when the Cricut eats my vinyl, and never once told me to pack fewer craft supplies (even when he really should have).

Here’s to the road, the art, the chaos — and to Chris, the ShadowWolf who keeps this Craftin’ Wife dreaming big.

💖
Amanda
Craftin’ Wife

5 Travel Makeup Essentials

 

Makeup Essentials for Life on the Road: Staying Glam in an RV

Hey beauties!

Amanda here, your Craftin’ Wife, ready to talk about one of my favorite topics — makeup — but with a twist. Living in an RV means limited space, limited water, and limited time sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your beauty routine. With a little smart planning, you can keep your glam game strong on the road.

Here’s my list of makeup essentials that fit perfectly into RV life — compact, versatile, and totally effective:

1. Multi-Use Products

Look for products that do double (or triple) duty — think a tinted moisturizer with SPF, a blush that can double as lip color, or an eyeshadow palette that can create multiple looks without taking up space.

2. Compact, Travel-Friendly Packaging

I prefer smaller palettes and stick-form products because they’re easy to stash in limited storage and less likely to spill or break during travel.

3. Quality Tools in Mini Sizes

A few good brushes and tools go a long way. I keep a small brush roll with essentials like a blending brush, a flat eyeshadow brush, and a travel-sized beauty blender.

4. Makeup Remover Wipes

Water is precious on the road, so makeup remover wipes are a lifesaver for quick and gentle cleansing at the end of the day.

5. Setting Spray and Primer

Both are compact, travel-friendly, and make your makeup last longer even when the weather or your schedule gets unpredictable.

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Living in an RV doesn’t mean you have to compromise your self-care or style. With the right essentials, your makeup routine can be just as enjoyable and effective as it is at home.

What’s your must-have makeup product when traveling? I’d love to hear your favorites!

Stay glowing,
Amanda, The Craftin’ Wife 💖

The Magic of Creativity — Why It’s the Best Superpower We’ve Got

 Hey Y'all,

I decided to switch from another DS projects blog, to more about the joys of creativity in general.

Hello, lovely friends!

I’m Amanda — the Craftin’ Wife behind this little corner of creativity. If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey of crafting, DIY beauty, and making things with my hands, it’s this: having creative hobbies isn’t just a way to pass the time — it’s a way to nourish the soul.

There’s something magical about sitting down with a fresh project, whether it’s a new makeup look, a handmade decoration, or a crafty tutorial to share with you all. It’s like the world slows down for a moment, and all the noise fades away. The mess of glitter (okay, not loose glitter — that stuff is the herpes of crafting, trust me!) and paint, the hum of the sewing machine, the soft swish of a makeup brush — all of it becomes a soothing rhythm that helps me recharge.

Creativity lets me express parts of myself words alone can’t capture. When I create, I feel connected to something bigger — a community of makers, dreamers, and doers. It’s a place where imperfections become beautiful, where trial and error are just part of the fun, and where every little success feels like a personal victory.

Life on the road with my husband Chris means our space is limited, but it has never limited our creativity. If anything, it’s made me more resourceful and inspired me to share DIY projects and beauty hacks that are easy, practical, and perfect for busy days. Whether you’re crafting at home, on the road, or anywhere in between, there’s joy in making something uniquely yours.

I just want to gush about something that makes life so much brighter: creativity.
Not just in the “make pretty things” way (though, yes please 🙋‍♀️), but in the solve problems, dream bigger, and make life sparkle kind of way.

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✨ Creativity Makes the World More Fun

Let’s be real — the world can be a little gray sometimes. Creativity is like the glitter (loose glitter haters, stay with me 😆) that lands exactly where you want it. Whether it’s painting, sewing, designing a new makeup look, writing a story, or upcycling thrift store finds, it adds a layer of joy to the everyday.

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💡 It’s Not Just for “Artists”

You don’t need to be a painter, sculptor, or Etsy seller to be creative. Creativity shows up when you:

• Rearrange furniture for a fresh feel.

• Come up with a clever way to store craft supplies in an RV.

• Figure out how to make dinner from five random ingredients.

• Find a way to make a gift special without spending a dime.

If you’ve ever thought, “Huh, what if I tried it this way?” — congratulations, you’re a creative thinker.

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🌱 It Grows with You

Creativity isn’t a limited resource. In fact, the more you use it, the more it grows.
Every time you challenge yourself with a new project or experiment, you’re giving your brain a mini workout. That’s why artists keep finding fresh ideas — they’ve trained themselves to look at the world in what ifs instead of what is.

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💖 Creativity Brings People Together

Some of my best memories have come from sharing ideas with others — swapping beauty tips, crafting together at the picnic table, or bouncing story concepts around with Chris while we’re on the road. Creativity is contagious in the best possible way.

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🛠 You Can Use It Anywhere

The best part? Creativity doesn’t care about your location, budget, or background. You can be in a high-rise apartment, a tiny RV, or a cabin in the woods — if you’ve got imagination, you’ve got everything you need.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

Creativity is our human superpower. It’s what turns a foam pumpkin into a centerpiece, a bare face into a masterpiece, and a quiet afternoon into a memory.
So the next time inspiration strikes — whether it’s for a big, bold project or a tiny tweak to your routine — run with it. That’s where the magic happens.

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💬 Tell me — what’s the last creative thing you did?
I’d love to celebrate your ideas in the comments!

Stay inspired,
Amanda
Craftin’ Wife’s Creations 🎨💄✂️

Thank you for being part of this journey with me! I can’t wait to keep sharing tutorials, tips, and ideas that spark your own creative spirit.

Who/What is Craftin' Wife's Creations?

 Hey Y'all!

So... 

Things have changed over the years, I went from the typical crafter, to a business, to a teacher of sorts, and trying to navigate what that looks like on a regular basis.

Then having more interest in going back to the beauty side, and figuring out how (and if) that fits life on the road.

The answers?

I'm still figuring it out... but I have ideas.

A rebrand, if you will..

✨ Meet the Craftin’ Wife: Creativity, Beauty, & Big Dreams on the Open Road 🚐

Hey there, friend! I’m Amanda, the heart and hot glue behind Craftin’ Wife’s Creations—a plus-sized, makeup-loving, book-devouring, craft-obsessed woman living her dream life on the road with my husband, Chris. Together, we travel full-time in our (well-loved) RV, hopping between workamping gigs and wild adventures. But just because we’re mobile doesn’t mean the creativity stops—if anything, it fuels it.

Moving forward I'll use Craftin’ Wife’s Creations as a way to share the things I love most:
🧶 Crafting on a budget
💄 Beauty and self-care, even in campground bathrooms
📚 Cozy reads
🎒 And most of all—DIY creativity with a traveling twist.

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🛠 Life’s Messy—Let’s Make It Pretty

Whether it’s transforming dollar store finds into campsite decor, organizing a chaotic RV space, or figuring out how to apply winged eyeliner with no counter and a bumpy road, this blog is here to share real-life DIY and beauty hacks for the nomadic lifestyle.

What you can expect here:

• Easy DIY tutorials using limited space & supplies

• Craft kits & printables for when you need a creative boost

• Beauty tips for travel days and no-mirror makeup routines

• Honest reflections on van life, marriage, and staying inspired

• Cozy content: favorite reads, handmade gifts, and travel journal ideas

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📦 Crafting in Small Spaces

Trust me, learning how to paint, glue, and glitter in an RV takes some... creative problem-solving. I'll share tips for storing supplies, working with limited surfaces, and staying inspired when your whole home is on wheels.

You'll see me use everything from thrift store treasures to campground castoffs in my projects—and I’ll walk you through how you can, too. Think of it as glamping meets crafting, with a dash of grit and glam.

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💄 Beauty Isn’t Just for Bricks & Mortar

Just because we live in campgrounds doesn’t mean we can’t show up feeling fabulous. I’m all about finding ways to keep up a self-care routine on the road, whether it’s a simple makeup look under the awning or a skincare routine that doesn’t need running water. You'll get honest product reviews, makeup tutorials with natural light, and some real-talk about confidence in a world that doesn’t always make space for plus-sized, makeup loving, crafty women.

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🎨 Join Me Around the Craft Table

This blog isn’t just about my journey—it’s about building a community of creative, adventurous souls who love a good project and a beautiful life, even if it’s a little scrappy and unfiltered.

So whether you’re a fellow traveler, a weekend crafter, or just someone looking for inspiration with a little glitter glue on it—I’m so glad you’re here.

Pull up a folding chair, grab your glitter, and let’s make something beautiful.

🖤 Amanda
The Craftin’ Wife

Beauty Tag 150-175 (Continuation)

 Hey Y'all!

We're continuing this blog series:

https://craftinwifescreations.blogspot.com/2025/07/continuing-beauty-tag-126-150.html

The numbers are off again... IDK.

This is 150-175, The questions can be found here:

https://wisledge.com/beauty-tag-questions/

134. Is there any cosmetic that can be used for multi-purpose? Lots. For example most all lipstick can double as blush, if eyeshadow is eye safe then it's face safe too.
135. What’s your favorite makeup mantra? Not really a mantra, but IMO there's no "season" for specific colors. Wear what you like, whenever you want.
136. Do you have any particular beauty wish? Nope. Not that I can think of.
137. How would you like to do your wedding makeup? That happened a loooong time ago. I'd do it much the same, only more bold, now. 
138. Which type of neckpiece suits you the best? I do not know what this is asking.
139. What was your first lipstick? Jane Cosmetics is one of the first I remember.
140. Which shade of lipstick is actually the best nude for you? I don't know, I own about 30 nudes, LOL.
141. Would you ever go through any cosmetic surgery? No thanks.
142. Do you like contouring? I don't really do it, so I guess not.
143. HD makeup or normal makeup? Normal...
144. Matter liner or glittered liner? Depends on the day/look. Glitter for Christmas almost always.
145. What is the best compliment you have got to date for your makeup skill? Just that it looks good.
146. What requires to be a makeup guru? A love of makeup, skill in application, and a following who likes your style.
147. Have you ever given any free consult to save anyone’s skin condition? No.
148. How does it feel to wear bold makeup? Amazing.
149. Which perfume can energize your mind? Happy, Clinique
150. Which hairstyle suits you the best? I'll let you know when I find it.
151. So, which type of color lens suits you the best? Any I choose.
152. Glitter, glossy, or matte nail paint? All them.
153. Have you ever waxed your eyebrow? Yeah. You?
154. Have you ever eaten lipstick in your childhood? I'm sure I might have, but I've not heard stories so maybe not.
155. What is the perfect base for your makeup? I like porefessional, but haven't bought it in years. I just keep trying new things instead.
156. 3 beauty tips that your mom taught you? Black eyeliner is best when heated, Covergirl is too orange for us, perfume is best when used sparingly.
157. Have you ever tried applying colored mascara? Lots of times!
158. Which is your favorite brand of bathing products? Ummm... Bath and Body Works

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife

How To: Cricut Joy Pens & Markers

 Hey Y'all,

Lets get right into it...

Using Cricut Joy Pens & Markers

1. Design in Cricut Design Space:
   • Create your design and size it for your project (be mindful of the Joy and/or your materials size limitations).
   • Assign the desired pen/marker color to each element you want drawn.
   • Ensure the "Operation" is set to "Draw" for the pen functionality.
   • Use the "Attach" tool to lock the arrangement of design elements (if needed).
2. Prepare your Cricut Joy Machine:
   • Ensure your Cricut Joy machine is connected via Bluetooth to your device (computer, tablet, or phone).
   • Note: For Cricut Joy machines, you don't need a separate adapter to use pens; they are designed to fit directly into the clamp.
3. Load the Pen:
   • Open the clamp on your Cricut Joy machine.
   • Remove the Blade Housing and set it aside in a safe place. 
   • Note: The interior "wall" of the Joy & the Blade Housing are magnetic.
   • Remove the cap from your Cricut Joy pen or marker.
   • Insert the pen into the clamp. It should drop into place without needing extra pressure or a click.
   • Close the clamp. Your machine is now ready to draw!
4. Load Material and Initiate Drawing:
   • Place your material onto the machine mat, aligning it with the upper left corner.
   • In Design Space, select your mat type, then click Continue.
   • Choose the appropriate material setting for your project (Smart Vinyl, Cardstock, etc).
   • The light on the top of the machine will start blinking, indicating it's ready to load your material.
   • Insert the mat under the guides, using both hands, until the rollers grip the mat.
   • Press "Go" in Design Space, and the machine will begin to draw your design. 

Additional tips:

• Testing your Pens: Always test your pens on a scrap piece of paper before using them in your Cricut, especially if they are new, to ensure proper ink flow.
• Switching Colors: If your project involves multiple pen colors, Design Space will prompt you when to switch them out. Simply open the clamp, remove the used pen, insert the new one, and close the clamp.
• Single vs. Double Lines: When writing text, ensure you've selected a writing font in Design Space to achieve a single-line appearance. Otherwise, the machine will draw the outline of the letters.
• Attaching: Remember to use the "Attach" tool to ensure the pen-drawn elements and cut elements remain in their intended positions relative to each other.
• Storing Pens: Store your Cricut pens upside down with the cap at the bottom to promote optimal ink flow. 

By following these instructions, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning projects with your Cricut Joy and its amazing pen functionality.

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife