V-day, take two

             Originally, I wanted to make this a three part-er for this Valentines Day.  No reason really, I just like threes.  But another snow day and a nasty abscessed tooth (thanks Universe!) have apparently meant this is supposed to be only two posts of ideas.   Luckily, they are truly genius ideas so that makes it okay that I was kind of lazy this week.  (What? I couldn't hear you with my fingers stuck in my ears.  I am just going to assume you agree.)  Besides, these next three ideas are really clever and cute.  They don't even have to be just for Valentines Day, either. 

            For any of the next three crafts, you will need some chalkboard paint, tape, and, of course, chalk.  

1) Heartfelt Mugs-  Pick a large plain mug from a dollar store (or yard sale, thrift shop or the like).  A pair might be even cuter.   Wrap a piece of masking tape about 2/3 way up to the top of the cup.  Paint  bottom under the tape with two coats chalkboard paint and let dry.  When dry, remove tape and use chalk to draw hearts, faces, or even a cute quote about love.  (Handwash these instead of putting in dishwasher)  The best part about these is you can go back later and draw other things like a b-day message, or good morning and truly look thoughtful and sweet later.

 2) Candy jars- grab some wide mouth mason jars (with lids) or, if  you can find them, those cute farm house jars with the apothecary lids.  Cut a heart shape (or any shape really) out of scrap paper and affix to jar with tape.  Paint with two coats chalkboard paint.  Remove paper shape when dry.  Fill with colorful candy, add a cute note on the jar with chalk,  and voila, instant sweet charm.  I would suggest conversation hearts or m and m's. Or sixlets. Or skittles.  Or mini marshmallows.  But you get the gist.

3) Family (or office) message board- You will need a cookie sheet, about 24 inches of ribbon and two washers. Simply buy a cheap cookie sheet.  Or find an old one. Drill a hole into two of the corners (not diagonally) or pop holes with a nail and hammer.  Then paint with (you guessed it) two coats chalkboard paint.  When dry,  attach one the washers to the ribbon, run ribbon out through one hole and back into the other hole and attach the other washer.  This will work as the hanger.  Simply use the bottom lip of the cookie sheet as a ledge for chalk.  As handy as a dry erase board but a lot nicer to look at.   Again, the best way to give this is with some lovely quote or saying drawn right onto it when giving.

                So, there you go.  Happy Valentines Day.  May your day be as sweet and charming as all those candy ads claim it is.