A Gemini's Life

          My sorority does a Heart 2 Hand gift every year. We draw names and make a homemade gift for the person whose name we drew. This is what made this year for my Heart 2 Hand gift for Kat:

          First I created the pink stripes at the top and bottom of the glass. I carefully measured equally distanced black lines and painted in the pink. Next I painted the circle and scallops surrounding it. I used a zebra stencil, loosely taped inside the glass, to paint the zebra stripes. After painting in the circle pink and then the letter "K" I had to set the paint in the oven. After it cooled I added the Swarovski crystals in the scallops. It turned out great, but the only thing I did not like was that the paint strokes created texture. I was hoping the paint would be smooth instead of bumpy.

          The entire process took a lot longer than I anticipated, I admit. I attribute that to 1) it being the first time I had ever attempted this type of project, and 2) I am a bit of a perfectionist with my projects and spent way more time than necessary making my lines perfect. I would definitely do this one again. Especially after everyone's reactions. At first they did not even think it was hand made! What a massive compliment to a perfectionist. Part of feeds my ego, I admit it's true. But really the biggest part was seeing in her face how much she loved it. I get such a HUGE kick out of giving a gift that someone truly loves. Especially when I get to make it myself.