fort & field

Family Circle magazine feature

2011-10-23T17:36:00.011-04:00

So excited that orange & white and black & white striped paper bags and solid orange and black paper cupcake liners from fort & field were included in a Family Circle magazine halloween feature!...

Go out and get your copy today for some really cute Halloween project ideas. Or, head to the Family Circle magazine website now to get free instructions to all of the projects included in the article!

garden birthday party

2011-10-23T17:08:00.012-04:00

I am loving this absolutely adorable garden party by Kelly Allison of Kelly Allison Photography...

MENU
- garden veggies & strawberries
- snails'n cheese, also known as mac & cheese
- ladybug pizzas (Start with mini pitas or biscuit dough as the base, top with sauce and cheese. Split pepperoni for the wings, add olive for the head, and tuck a bit of basil underneath for a touch of flavor).
- beetle juice, also known as apple juice
- chocolate ants & mulch (trail mix made of chocolate raisins and cracklin' oat bran)
- And, cupcakes, of course! grassy cupcakes (green coconut frosting topped with paper butterfly worms) and dirt cupcakes (crushed oreos and gummy worms)

red and white striped paper straws, white paper cups, wooden forks, red and white striped bakers twine, and red and white gingham cupcake liners all from fort & field.

ice cream sandwich bags

2011-09-21T14:48:00.005-04:00

Ice cream sandwich bags from fort & field were featured in a "festive spring party supplies" round-up on the Real Simple magazine website...

"little bug picnic" birthday party

2011-09-17T19:42:00.015-04:00

Jennifer from Rambling Renovators, a blog which follows the renovations of her families 1950's home in Toronto, threw a fun "little bug picnic" birthday for her daughter.

The invitations got everyone in the mood...

A sign greeted guests at the door and the wee ones were invited to "Come bee a bug!" by wearing one of the bumble bee headbands...

There were lots of buggy decor details, like the DIY ladybug banner, the bug straw toppers atop yellow and white striped paper straws, and the beehive drink dispenser (filled with ice tea "beetle juice"). The loot boxes contained some plush bean bag bugs, "Buzz-bles!" labelled bubbles, insect finger puppets, magnifying glasses, and tattoos...

There was a photo booth and a DIY frog cutout for a bean bag toss game...

Then there was the cake!!...

The rest of the table was set with bug-themed food: Snails 'n cheese (baked mac 'n cheese) served in white paper cups with wooden forks, ladybug cupcakes in red and white gingham cupcake liners, striped bumble bee jello, caterpillar kebobs (balled fruit on skewers). And guests got to take home a little treat too, scones in red and white gingham paper bags...

The bumble bee jello was made by alternating layers of lemon and grape jello. Wooden spoons were attached to the side of the cups with little pieces of black and white gingham tape - easy, functional, and keeping with the picnic theme...

easter brunch and egg hunt

2011-09-17T19:11:00.009-04:00

Julie, one of the creative spirits behind In Good Company, a party supply and party planning company in South Africa, put together a sweet "Breakfast & Bunnies" themed morning with a brunch and egg hunt. She never misses a detail and always has the most original ideas...

I love the doilies wrapped around soda bottles and tied with ribbon. The retro grey and white striped paper straws and light pink circle paper doilies can be found at fort & field.

ladybug party

2011-09-17T18:40:00.005-04:00

Erin Sacks, from Our Sunny Life, created an adorable ladybug garden themed party for her daughter's birthday...

All of the food was planned out to be “bug” like...from egg and ham bagels with lady bugs on top, to “dragonfly” fruit kabobs dipped in shot glasses of strawberry yogurt, to “tator” pillars, to lemon tarts with strawberry butterflies, to mini baby bell cheeses that were carved into lady bugs--just to name a few. All of the food was “brunch” inspired and bite sized, so party goers didn’t have to use utensils to eat it...

Red & white polka dot bags and red & white polka dot paper straws from fort & field.

cookie boxes as retail packaging

2011-09-17T18:19:00.003-04:00

Larissa, owner of Showers Bring Flowers, a cute shop providing handmade party supplies, purchased individual kraft cookie boxes with scalloped cutout windows to package some of her smaller embellishments in. She tied them up with chocolate brown and white striped bakers twine. What a cute way to use a party supply item...to package up party supply items!...

"party time" treasury

2011-04-03T18:09:00.002-04:00

Retro red, white, and blue star printed paper straws and a circus cupcake kit from fort & field, were featured in a "Party Time" treasury...

Thanks Minnie Grace!

"all things pennant" treasury

2011-03-30T22:34:00.003-04:00

Grey and white paper straws and yellow striped pennant straw toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon and available from fort & field, were featured in an "All Things Pennant" treasury...

Thanks Mia's Ukulele!

Wedding Style Guide Magazine feature

2011-03-27T21:34:00.003-04:00

The Autumn 2011 issue of Australia based, Wedding Style Guide, has arrived on new stands and in lucky subscribers mailboxes. Look for red and white gingham paper bags and orange and white striped paper bags from fort & field in an inspirational "picnic" spread...

I've already got my picnic basket packed!

"it's breakfast time" treasury

2011-03-12T18:55:00.003-05:00

Light yellow circle paper doilies from fort & field were featured in an "it's breakfast time" treasury...

Love it! Thanks Gina Zetts!

pencil cake pops

2011-03-06T14:12:00.007-05:00

The lovely Audrey from Sweet Cheeks Tasty Treats approached me to do some custom "school house lunch" pennant straw toppers. The toppers were originally designed by my sister, Heather Cahoon and have fun sayings such as...

- have a fun day!
- good work!
- love you!
- enjoy lunch!
- great job!

The 1st birthday party Audrey is planning for her daughter is around a vintage school/Dick & Jane theme. So, I switched out the original text for "happy birthday!" and "Harper is one!" in a teal to match part of the color scheme. Audrey ordered a mix of bubblegum pink and white striped straws and orange and white striped paper straws, which she plans on putting the toppers on and serving with strawberry milk in paper cartons from a local school. How cute is that! In addition to the toppers I sent to Audrey, I supplied her with a PDF of the toppers so she could print more at home to use for other elements of the party. She sent along a sneak peak of one of the other fun ways she is incorporating them into the party...pencil cake pops!

Perfection! For more details on the pencil cake pops, visit Sweet Cheeks Tasty Treats. And, for the tutorial for the apple cake pops, visit Bakerella. Audrey has been doing all this in preparation for the party, which is actually tomorrow. I can't wait to see more of the amazing party details! I'll be sure to share!

"it's all black and white" treasury

2011-03-06T13:36:00.003-05:00

Black and white striped bakers twine from fort & field was featured in an "it's all black and white" treasury...

Thanks Pam from Serendipity Cards!

"lively" treasury

2011-02-17T12:42:00.004-05:00

Red and white heart printed straws from fort & field were featured in a "lively" treasury...

Thanks Art Mind!

"the (red &) white stripes" treasury

2011-02-17T12:35:00.004-05:00

Red and white striped paper bags from fort & field were featured in a "the (red &) white stripes" treasury...

Thanks grafryn!

philly market cafe

2011-02-14T11:58:00.005-05:00

Market Day Canelé used red and white striped bakers twine to wrap up a special Valentines Day batch of canele that have cherries inside. Today, you can grab a box of 4 regular and 4 mini fresh baked at Fair Food Farmstand in Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia for $12. And, if you aren't able to stop by and pick some up today, you can find canele and caramels from Market Day Canele (in Philadelphia) at...

La Colombe
Pumpkin Market
Green Aisle Grocery
Quince Fine Foods
Betty's Speakeasy

Fair Food Farmstand in Reading Terminal Market

Clark Park Farmers Market (Saturday)
Fitler Square Farmers Market (Saturday)
Rittenhouse Square Farmers Market (Saturday)

Yummy!

sprinkles bath & body

2011-02-10T18:27:00.002-05:00

Julie, from Sprinkles Bath & Body, sent me some great photos of items she purchased from fort & field used for packaging her products!

Lip lollies are all natural lip balm made to look like a real lollipop by using a striped paper straw for the stick...

French macaron shea soap is all natural moisturizing soap filled with whipped soap that Julie has packaged in small glassine bags...

I love her creativity! These look amazing...and yummy!

Paris themed birthday party

2011-02-06T11:19:00.004-05:00

Jen from "the project girl" sent me photos of her Paris themed birthday party and it is truly fabulous!

Black and white striped paper straws, black striped cupcake liners, and black and white striped paper bags all from fort & field.

"you make me happy when skies are grey" treasury

2011-02-05T14:04:00.003-05:00

Retro paper straws and yellow striped pennant straw toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon and available from fort & field, were featured in a "you make me happy when skies are grey" treasury...

Thanks mod momME!

"tea and toast" treasury

2011-02-05T13:56:00.002-05:00

Assorted light pink circle paper doilies from fort & field were featured in a "tea and toast" treasury...

Thanks Melissa from Melissa Steimle Photography!

"things a mermaid would like" treasury

2011-02-05T13:36:00.003-05:00

Retro paper straws and blue striped pennant straw toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon and available from fort & field, were featured in a "things a mermaid would like" treasury...

Thanks pumpkin and butterfly!

valentines day photo shoot

2011-02-03T08:48:00.011-05:00

Corinn, the party planner behind Corley Designs, and Allyson of Allyson Crozier Photography, put together this amazing valentines celebration all in the hopes of inspiring people to celebrate and share their love with those they love!

LOVE, LOVE, love! And, for all those that contributed to the shoot...

styling by Corley Designs

photography by Allyson Crozier Photography

heart paper straws from fort & field

red striped heart toppers designed by wordplayhouse and available at fort & field

custom print and themed graphics by Pumpkin and Butterfly

lanterns and tissue daisies from Polka Dot Market

mini gable boxes and mini boxes from Party Starters

custom t-shirt from Baby Paige

mini cake and flower pot cupcake from Under the Icing

mini cupcakes and chocolate bars from Cakes and Candies by Maryellen

cake pops from The Cake Pop Castle

"birthday bliss" treasury

2011-02-02T08:44:00.003-05:00

An assortment of rainbow striped cupcake or muffin paper baking liners from fort & field were featured in a "birthday bliss" treasury...

Thanks Beeps' Peeps! Happy one year anniversary to your shop!

"yellow stripes" treasury

2011-01-28T21:09:00.002-05:00

Yellow striped paper bags from fort & field were featured in a "yellow stripes" treasury...

Thanks Lilly and Lilly!

art themed party

2011-01-27T17:30:00.010-05:00

I love the idea of an art party and this 4th birthday by Judy from Cutest Little Things gives lots of inspiration to get you started on your own!

The treat table is usually the favorite of all and Judy did not disappoint with hers!...

She created amazing cookie lollipops, and number, crayon, and artist palette shaped cookies...

She had a healthy snack mix as well with custom toppers from Peas and Thank You's (chalkboard labels and signs throughout by Bradens Grace)...

And, who could resist this fun cake adorned with polka dots and crayons?!...

Look at these custom chocolate paintbrushes by Mandie's Candies...

And, irresistible giant lollipops...

There were also rice krispie treat lollipops with colorful m&m's inside, Edible pretzel crayons (dipped in colorful candy melts and wrapped in crayon-like wrappers), fruit loop sticks (great for wee little ones!), colorful rock candy sticks, m&m's, skittles, and even a gumball machine!

And, to wash all of these goodies down (along with lunch), there were custom water bottles...

sipped out of striped paper straws from fort & field of course!

Guests could take some of the goodies home in cookies printed bags and striped paper bags from fort & field...

There were chalkboards on easels set up around the yard and smaller chalkboards and dry erase boards set on the tables. Judy also cut a roll of brown kraft paper to the perfect size for a table runner and painted it with chalkboard paint. With pails of brightly colored chalk set out, guests could doodle while they ate!...

For most of the party the kids were free to run and play in the backyard, but Judy did have a really cute art project that was everyone's favorite activity. She purchased a package of blank 8" X 10" canvases at Michael's. With various acrylic paints that she had on hand, she painted every canvas a different, bright solid color. On the day of the party, each child had their hand rolled in white tempera paint and pressed them down on their canvas color of choice to make a personalized hand print painting!...

For the takeaway party favors, each child received a handy tote filled with a box of crayons, a few containers of party-size Playdoh, a colorful art apron, and a bag of alphabet shaped crayons that Judy made by melting down crayons in alphabet silicone molds...

So many special details and certainly a party where everyone had fun! To see more of the details from this party, see the full post here.

doily reception seating cards

2011-01-26T18:33:00.005-05:00

Paper doilies can be used traditionally underneath plates and serving dishes, but can be transformed into so many more beautiful purposes with a little imagination. Martha Stewart has folded square paper doilies into envelopes for reception seating cards. On the outside, simply cut notches in the lace pattern to hold small calligraphed name cards. Table cards are written on larger cards nestled inside the folds...

"i luv harts" treasury

2011-01-23T14:50:00.005-05:00

The adorable new heart printed paper straws from fort & field were featured in an "i luv harts" treasury...

Thanks Leah from Bay'b Elfant!

"yellow talk" treasury

2011-01-21T18:47:00.002-05:00

striped paper straws with yellow pennant toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field were included in a "yellow talk" treasury...

Thanks Viola's Boutique!

"casual friday" treasury

2011-01-21T18:09:00.005-05:00

striped paper straws with blue pennant toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field were included in a "casual friday" treasury...

Thanks Analisa!

snowman cupcake - take two!

2011-01-20T19:29:00.002-05:00

Yesterday's snowman cupcake was so cute that I have to share another made by my mom...

This one is made using the same carrot cake recipe and the snowman is created from one whole marshmallow, 3/4 of a marshmallow, a little snip of orange slice, two drops of black decorating gel or chocolate sprinkles, and a junior mint. You can use a dab of the icing to hold the "hat" on, if you like. Easy peasy and SO cute! Instead of using store bought marshmallows, my mom whipped up homemade marshmallows from a Martha Stewart recipe...

HOMEMADE MARSHMALLOWS

2 ½ tbsp Knox unflavored gelatin (3 envelopes)
1 ½ c sugar
1 c light corn syrup
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp pure vanilla
powdered sugar for dusting

Combine gelatin and ½ c cold water in the bowl of an electric mixer with whisk attachment. Let it stand 30 minutes. Meanwhile combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and ½ c water in a small heavy saucepan; place over low heat and stir until sugar has dissolved. Clip on candy thermometer; raise heat to medium. Cook syrup without stirring until it reaches 244 degrees (firm ball stage). Immediately remove pan from heat. With mixer on low speed, slowly pour syrup into the softened gelatin. Increase speed to high; beat until mixture is very thick and white and has almost tripled in volume- about 15 minutes. Add vanilla; beat to incorporate. Generously dust a 9x13-inch glass baking pan (or an 8x8-inch pan for thicker marshmallows) with powdered sugar. Pour marshmallow mixture into pan and spread evenly. Dust top with powdered sugar; let stand all day or overnight, uncovered to dry out. My mom used a small round Wilton cutter that she purchased at Michael’s Crafts for an authentic marshmallow shape, but any small shape can be used.

Blue and white striped cupcake liners, which really create a wintery base for the snowman can be purchased at fort & field.

snowman cupcake

2011-01-19T11:27:00.003-05:00

My mom, and owner of Whiteley Creek Bed & Breakfast, is always baking up something in the kitchen and usually adds in a whole lot of creativity to whatever she is making! This snowman cupcake is a perfect example...

She used carrot cake batter thinking it would be appropriate..."carrot nose, ya know." The body of the snowman as well as the hat and scarf are all made from gumdrops. She could not find large gumdrops so purchased small ones instead and mushed them together to create what she desired. Popsicle sticks were cut to resemble skis and wooden skewers take the place of ski poles. The pretty blue ends on the poles are candies that she had left over from a choo choo train cupcake topper that she made last winter. So cute and perfect for this blistering cold weather! My mom strives, even while baking, to end up with something healthy and she often does this by subbing out those ingredients with higher calories and fat for more nutritious ingredients. Or, just searching for recipes that are healthy to begin with. The carrot cake recipe used for making the snowman cupcakes is healthy and passes her seal of approval for taste...

CARROT CUPCAKES from EatingWell

Makes 12 cupcakes.

Cupcakes:

½ cup pitted prunes
¼ cup hot water
1-8 oz. can crushed pineapple
1 ¼ cups sifted cake flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 large egg
1 large egg white
¾ cup sugar
¼ canola oil
1 cup grated carrots

Preheat oven to 325°. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. Combine prunes with hot water in a food processor and process until smooth; set aside. Drain pineapple in a strainer set over a small bowl, pressing firmly to extract most of the juice. Set the pineapple aside and reserve the juice for another use. Whisk flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Whisk egg, egg white, sugar, oil, and the reserved prune puree in a mixing bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and stir with rubber spatula until blended. Stir in carrots and the reserved pineapple. Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake the cupcakes until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake’s center comes out clean, 25-30 minutes. Let the cupcakes sit in the pan for about 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool before frosting.

Frost with cream cheese icing, plain powdered sugar frosting, or simply a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Evelyn & Matthew's wedding

2011-01-17T15:49:00.002-05:00

If you loved the "mini pie favor" post from yesterday, you'll love seeing and creating a few more details from Evelyn's beautiful wedding!...

For the seating chart, Evelyn purchased a jumbo cork bulletin board, 1 1/2 yards of 54" wide fabric, different colored wide ribbons, and mini clothes pins. She placed the fabric on the floor and the cork board face down on top of it, stapling around the edges using a heavier duty stapler. Then, Evelyn centered one ribbon on the board and stapled it just on the top. She then spaced out the other ribbons, stapling them only along the top as well. She flipped the board over and gave it a quick check to make sure the ribbons were spaced out right, gave them a tug, and stapled them along the bottom. Top notes were purchased on etsy and she had someone calligraphy the names.

The venue had beautiful dark wood tables, which were left exposed except for table runners that Evelyn sewed. She bought about 10 yards of fabric and made eight 23"x 98" runners. Evelyn sews quite a bit and had a vision in mind, but said only because it was her wedding did she undertake this crazy of a project...Never again she said!

She collected milk glass vessels (and tiny milk glass lamps) from Goodwill shops, a few yard sales, and ebay and gave them to her florist. They served as the vases for the table flowers. She also purchased small fabric and lace doily-like circles from a local flea market, which went on top of the table runners and underneath the vases ( To coordinate with this, Evelyn and her husband had a long lace doily runner on their sweetheart table). The flowers were flanked by two punched-tin candle holders holding pillar candles, both of which she purchased from Christmas Tree Shops (Evelyn highly recommends Christmas Tree Shops for any party needs because they always have something great and low prices).

For each place setting, Evelyn made little felt acorns that she affixed to kraft flags. On one side of the flag, she stamped "welcome" and on the other it had Evelyn and her husbands nicknames and their wedding date (this was a custom stamp that she purchased from a seller on etsy). The acorns and the kraft flags were tied around a napkin and placed on each guests plate. Note: felted balls already affixed to the acorn caps can be purchased on etsy, however, they are pricey. Instead, Evelyn gathered acorn caps in the park (or purchase these on etsy if you don't have acorns where you live). She purchased felt balls from etsy (these can also be purchased from Ornamentea, a great bead shop in Raleigh, NC that sells a huge range of felt balls). She drilled two holes into the cap, strung twine through the holes, and hot glued the felt balls onto the caps. These place settings were definitely a great touch, and were perfect for their fall wedding. Evelyn said guests slipped them onto their wrists during the reception, and it was just too cute!

The venue had fabulous fireplaces, which Evelyn decorated with a few flower arrangements in vintage silver tea tins (purchased off ebay), mini milk glass gas lanterns, and larger punched tin candle holders that matched the ones on the table perfectly (from Pottery Barn).

A "guest tree" was commissioned from artists on etsy in which guests inked up their thumbs on stamp pads and then stamped their thumbprint on a tree branch and signed their names. Evelyn bought a frame and had a mat cut to size and it now hangs on their wall as a sweet reminder of their day.

Last but not least, Evelyn had a game room in which folks could dress up in costumes and take crazy photos, watch a slide show of pics of Evelyn and her husband, and grab travel board games (connect 4, hungry hungry hippos, trouble, and perfection). How fun is that?!

All photographs courtesy of Liesl and Randy, co-owners of PhotoPink out of Brooklyn, New York.

mini pie favors

2011-01-16T15:17:00.020-05:00

When a fabulous customer, Evelyn, purchased a large order of wooden forks from fort & field and told me she was creating mini pie favors for her wedding with them, I told her I absolutely had to see photos once she got them completed. Not only did she send the juicy photos, but she also passed along the recipe and complete how-to!

SUPPLY LIST (Evelyn made about 90 pies so all supplies and ingredients are based on this amount)

- adhesive kraft paper
- a few sheets of scrapbook paper
- polka dot stamp
- stamp pad
- scalloped gift tag paper punch (for creating the shape of the polka dot tags that hang from the jars)
- heart hole punch (to punch a hole for hanging these same tags from the jar - much cuter than a regular old circle hole punch!)
- 2" scalloped hole punch (for the kraft labels on the top of the jar)
- 1/4 - 1/2 yard amount of 45" wide solid cotton (used underneath the lid) - the amount of fabric will depend on how many different colors you want to use
- 4" circle quilting template
- jute twine (Evelyn purchased 50 yards for about 90 jars)
- custom made stamps ("made by ________" stamp and personalized "thank you" stamp)

All supplies can be found at any major craft store like Michaels, except for the custom stamps which can be easily purchased from a number of sellers on etsy.

JAR DIRECTIONS

1. Stamp polka dots on scrapbook paper, punch scalloped tags out of this same paper, punch heart shaped holes at the top of each tag for threading the twine through, and lastly stamp "made by ________" using your custom stamp on the backside of each tag. Note: If you'd like a quicker method - polka dot scrapbook paper could be purchased instead of stamping your own eliminating one step, and/or custom printed and already cut out tags could be purchased from a seller on etsy or similar venue.

2. Using a manual paper cutter, cut 2 1/2" wide strips from adhesive kraft paper. Using your 2" scallop punch, cut stickers out of these strips. Stamp "thank you" onto each sticker using your personalized stamp. Note: To save some time on this step, pre-cut adhesive scalloped stickers could most likely be sought out instead of cutting your own.

3. Using the 4" circle quilting template and pinking sheers, cut circles from the cotton fabric you have chosen (the pinking sheers prevent fraying and also make a cute zig zag border). Cut a 12" length of twine for each circle you have cut (this was a good length to wrap around the jar lid twice and not struggle to tie a bow). Note: To save some time on this step, you may be able to find pre-cut fabric circles since this is one of the most time consuming parts of the project.

MINI PIE RECIPE

Ingredients:

- 1 package Pillsbury ready-made pie crust (There are 2 sheets per package and each sheet makes about 5 pies. Evelyn found Pillsbury to be the best brand, in terms of taste, but others could be substituted. Evelyn had 90 pies to make so she couldn't be bothered with making pie crust from scratch, but for a smaller event or just to give as gifts during the holidays you could make your own).
- 1 can pie filling (apple, cherry, etc.)
- 1 case 4 oz. quilted Ball jelly jars
- 4" circle cutter (or use a small sauce pan lid)
- mini shaped cookie cutter (heart, star, leaf, etc.)
- water (for sealing the pie crust edges)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Cut the "pie bodies" from the pie crust using the 4" cutter. Gather the pie crust circle and fit it inside a washed and dried jelly jar (no need to butter). Use the pads of your fingers to smooth out the crust and really get it into the bottom of the jar.

3. Cut the pie tops using the screw top from the jelly jar. Next, press into the pie top using the mini cookie cutter (You can skip this step all together, but will need to cut some slits into the tops so that the vapor has a place to escape when the pies bake). Set aside.

4. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of pie filling into the jar. Make sure the jar is filled at most 2/3 of the way, otherwise the pie filling will bubble out of the pie.

5. Take the pre-cut pie top, moisten the edge with water, and affix to the pie body. Press the two edges together. Leave uncovered.

6. When you've assembled all the mini pies. Place the jars on a cookie sheet and bake in the oven for approximately 18-22 minutes. Check periodically and remove the pies once they start to get lightly golden brown; which will also prevent the filling from spilling out of the hole/slits.

7. Let cool completely. Then, place the a 4" fabric circle on top of the jar, screw the jar lid on, and affix the personalized scalloped kraft sticker you already made to the fabric in the center of the lid.

Can I say....yummy! Not only to these make adorable favors, but they would also be very cute made in smaller batches to tuck in a child's lunch or in a basket for a picnic!

All photographs courtesy of Liesl and Randy, co-owners of PhotoPink out of Brooklyn, New York.

shop re-grand opening!

2011-01-15T21:15:00.004-05:00

I'm proud to announce that fort & field has a beautiful brand new website and I'd love for you to check it out...all of your favorite items are there, and new goodies are being added daily! As a special thank you to the readers here on the blog, I am offering a 10% discount for purchases made through midnight Saturday, January 22nd! Simply enter coupon code "re-grand opening" at checkout and the discount will automatically be deducted. Follow the link here to start shopping! NOTE: the discount has ended, but sign up for the newsletter on fort & field and always be updated immediately of future promotions!

"red white blue valentine" treasury

2011-01-11T13:25:00.007-05:00

yellow striped pennant straw toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field were featured in a "red white blue valentine" etsy treasury...

Thanks Catherine!

eco beautiful weddings magazine contest

2010-12-23T21:21:00.006-05:00

Check out page 105 of Eco Beautiful Weddings magazine Winter 2011 issue to win 50 grey/white striped paper straws with yellow striped pennant toppers from fort & field!...

Simply click on the "win this" badge on page 105 of the online magazine and share with Eco Beautiful what anniversary you're celebrating. Easy peasy! Or for a direct link to enter the giveaway, head over to the blog here and leave a comment. A winner will be chosen on January 29th, 2011.

"2011 industrial office decor" treasury

2010-12-23T20:36:00.010-05:00

Numbered push pins from fort & field were included in a 2011 industrial office decor treasury...

It looks great. Thanks Laura!

"winter trends" treasury

2010-12-08T13:45:00.008-05:00

turquoise with black number push pins from fort & field were included in a winter trends treasury...

Thanks Colleen from the shop at no. 144! It's a beautiful treasury!

southern weddings

2010-12-01T15:12:00.007-05:00

Southern Weddings magazine featured grey & white striped paper straws designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field in a fabulous wedding spread in the newest issue!...

The issue has been out since the beginning of October, but I just recently found out about the inclusion. Go to your local Target, Walmart, Barnes and Noble, Borders, and numerous grocery store locations in the South and around the country to pick up your own copy!

holiday letterpress

2010-11-22T17:38:00.011-05:00

I've gushed about the talented Liz of Blush Design Studio (once or twice) before and I must do so again! Liz had purchased a cute little center pull ball of red & white twine from me and recently emailed me to let me know she ended up using it as a prop in many of the photos for her holiday letterpress line. The twine did look amazing in the photos, but even more so I couldn't take my eyes off the beautiful letterpress creations!...

circus party

2010-11-17T12:09:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite things about providing unique party supplies through fort & field has to be when I get to see them in action! Nancy, a fabulous customer who recently retired from a 20 year career in event planning and fundraising to stay at home with her family, coordinated the most amazing circus themed birthday party for her children who are 3 years and 1 day apart....Caroline turned 5 and Nolan turned 2. The circus theme was chosen so it would be appropriate for both boys and girls of all ages. The event was hosted in early October in their backyard under the trees. Throughout the event, a cute circus tent graphic was repeated on paper goods, labels and more. Nancy worked with Jessica of Pen and Paper Flowers to have this custom graphic created. Also throughout the party, fabric and paper in the Anna Griffin Riley circus print were used for the sign backgrounds, place mats, accents, dessert table backdrop, and for the custom birthday outfits worn by Caroline, Nolan and her niece Amelia. The outfits were custom made by Ellie Beans children clothing and are so adorable!...

As the children came to the backyard, they stopped first at an orange and white ticket booth made out of a wardrobe moving box. Bags were made with personalized labels with each child’s name using the circus tent graphic. The bags were great to hold their tickets but also to collect all of the prizes won throughout the day...

Games and activities included:

Duck, Duck, Match - Guests chose 2 ducks from the pond; if the #’s matched they won a prize...

Go Fish – Guests tried to toss a ping pong ball into one of the little glasses; they won a precious mini fish packaged in a bag of soap purchased from Brown Bag Bath Bars....

The Kissing Booth - Children estimated how many candy kisses were in a jar; the closest guess won a prize at the end of the party.

Lucky Boxes - Children chose a number from the candy jar which coordinated with a numbered, small blue box. Inside the box they found a prize or the message “try again”...

Gator Round Up - Everyone was given 3 rings to toss around the nose of a large toy gator. If the ring made it around the nose, they won a prize; if not, they could use more tickets to try again.

Oreo Stacking - Everyone stacked Oreos and registered the number they stacked before it tumbled down on a report card. A boy and girl winner was announced from the 2 highest stacks registered...

Prize boards were created by pinning an assortment of prizes in small cellophane bags with handmade, scalloped toppers to several boards throughout the stations...

There was also a caricaturist which was a huge hit!! Guests were so excited to have a caricaturist draw their pictures and the artist placed each drawing in a colorful folder customized with a circus themed “thank you” sticker to keep all of the art safe and clean...

No one went hungry during this party! For lunch, tables were placed under the trees. The birthday table had a beautiful white chandelier hanging from the branches which was draped with a variety of festive ribbons. On each table was a Ferris wheel centerpiece. Each place setting had a circus paper placemat (made from the Anna Griffin paper) with small gable boxes adorned with custom circus labels containing a box of Chick-Fil-A nuggets, puff-corn, and apple slices (Nancy worked with her local Chick-Fil-A and they delivered the nuggets to her home … a huge help!) The parents received box lunches which included gourmet chicken salad sandwiches served in nostalgic orange and white striped bags from fort & field, cups of fruit salad, a mini white bag with cheese straws, and a fork wrapped in an orange napkin tied with orange and white polka dot ribbon...

Nancy created an amazing dessert table and ice cream setup as well!...

Custom cupcake toppers from Two Sugar Babies were placed on a variety of flavored cupcakes (lemon, vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and orange crush). Guests chose from clown toppers, “N” toppers for Nolan, “C” toppers for Caroline, or they selected from the two cupcake towers which featured party circles Nancy made specific to Caroline and Nolan (initials, name and age). The table also featured adorable circus fondant animals purchased from LC Cakes, which were placed on Nolan and Caroline's personal cakes as well as on cupcakes that held special positions under a variety of mini glass domes.

The dessert table also featured mini bags of animal crackers with scalloped paper toppers, salt water taffy, chocolate circus tent suckers Nancy made with a “Happy Birthday” tag, dipped marshmallows (made by the birthday girl and mommy), boxes of popcorn with a custom label, and paper cones of caramel corn...

There were also itty, bitty, mini ice cream cones and for too small to handle a tiny cone, small cups were provided with multicolored plastic spoons purchased from fort & field...

The drink table was backed by paper pennants and featured pink and orange sugar cookies, more tent suckers, marinated cheeses (a huge favorite!), bottled water with custom labels Nancy made from the circus tent graphic by Pen and Paper Flowers, and orange and white paper straws from fort & field for sipping...

On all of the tables, selections were clearly marked using stainless steel place card holders purchased from fort & field...

During the event, little orange bags stuffed with cotton candy were passed out as guests played games...

To always keep the special day close, over 550 memories were captured by Tracy of Photography by Tracy. A table was also set up with a tree full of circus ornaments. Under the tree, guests were asked to sign circus-themed books for Caroline and Nolan’s library. Caroline’s book was Olivia Saves the Circus and Nolan’s the Disney classic Dumbo...

So amazing, right?! If you'd like to see even more photos of the party, visit Nancy's flickr set here.

"sweet treats" treasury

2010-10-13T18:05:00.003-04:00

Orange and white striped paper treat bags from fort & field were featured in a wonderful halloween inspired "sweet treats" treasury...

Thanks Ana's Baby Couture!

yum party recipes

2010-10-04T17:40:00.009-04:00

Aimee at Olive + Pearl Handmade sent over pictures from her daughters one year birthday party. She went with a grey, pink, and yellow color scheme with subtle polka dots throughout. She incorporated a lot of handcrafted details including a scalloped fabric bunting, heart closures for the striped paper bags, tablecloth, and centerpieces...

But, what I loved most of all was the food...

- Mimi's famous chicken salad sandwiches and Auntie Ash's famous pimento cheese sandwiches cut into hearts on wheat
- Ash's yum spinach dip w/ pita chips and veggies
- Adam's homemade salsa
- 7 layer dip
- Meryl's 'lil cake was chocolate w/ cream cheese frosting and the big cake for everyone else was Aunt Vanessa's yum white almond cake w/ raspberry filling and almond cream cheese frosting
- Aunt Betty's sugar cookies personalized for the party with an "M" cookie cutter

Doesn't that menu make you super hungry?? I asked Aimee to share a few of the recipes, which she so graciously did...

Auntie Ash’s Pimiento Cheese
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (i usually do half of this monterey jack)
1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup pimientos, whole or chopped, drained
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

In a food processor, pulse the cheese until it looks like a fine meal. Add the mayo and blend until creamy. Add the pimentos, onion powder, salt, & pepper. Blend until combined.

Auntie Ash’s spinach dip
1 pkg (10 oz) frozen spinach
1 cup mayo
1 pint sour cream
2 1/2 tsp salad seasoning
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 oz ranch style dressing mix
salt and pepper to taste
shepherds bread

Cook spinach, drain well. Add all other ingredients. Cut off the top of the bread and scoop out the inside. Fill with dip and enjoy.

Aunt Betty’s sour cream sugar cookies (makes 3-4 dozen depending on cookie size)
2/3 cup butter (room temperature)
2 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup sour cream
5 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
pinch of cinnamon
2 beaten eggs

Cream together butter, sugar, and eggs. Add vanilla and sour cream. In a separate bowl sift flour, baking powder, salt, soda and cinnamon. Add to first mixture. Mix and knead to soft dough on heavily floured counter top. Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hrs. Roll out dough 1/3”-1/4” thickness, cut with fun cutters, and bake at 375 degrees until light brown (about 8 min).

the pen story

2010-10-03T14:44:00.004-04:00

This is an amazing video created using stop-motion! 60.000 pictures were shot, 9.600 prints were developed, and 1.800 pictures were shot over again!...

If you want more information on stop-motion, this website is a great place to start. There are helpful message boards and link to stop-motion related websites, blogs and resources.

new halloween sundae cup labels

2010-10-02T23:24:00.006-04:00

Just in time to plan your halloween party, I have new ice cream sundae cup labels in the shop!...

They are adorned with candy, pumpkins, and festive words including "sweet treats, trick or treat, and boo" and will dress up plain white ice cream cups, orange striped ice cream cups, and/or striped paper treat bags. Simply affix the labels to ice cream cups and bags with double sided tape or a glue stick.

The labels have been lovingly designed by my sister and NY Times best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon.

hank + hunt

2010-09-29T19:21:00.008-04:00

Today felt like my birthday or Christmas or some really special day! The wonderful Jenny over at Hank + Hunt interviewed me and did a shop feature for her new weekly post called "Wonderful Wednesday." You can read the full post here.

You know when you meet someone that really touches you? Well, that's how I feel about Jenny. She has always been extremely supportive of me and my shop and it really meant a lot to me that she would want to interview me for her blog...I have never been interviewed before! If you've ever read her blog, you know she is a completely genuine and kind person who cares so much about her family, friends, and her own passions. She can also throw together a party like it's nothing...how cute is this first day of preschool party that she whipped up in literally 2 1/2 hours!...

I love what she said about the party..."It could have been fancier. It could not have been more special." That's what I mean about Jenny...she's just a sweetheart and cares so much about others. And, check out this 1/2 birthday party she created for her sister in law...

To make it super easy, she gave her mock party pics so she could just take it out of the box, add some baked goods and snacks from her local grocer and voila! Instant party. She even made multiples of the custom onesies in case Harry got into the cake. You love Jenny by now, right?...She never misses an opportunity to think of someone else.

Even though I've been in my house for 5 years, because I traveled over three weeks of the month with my last job it still looks like I just moved in! Now that I am home full-time, I am hoping to start decorating and making it nice and cozy around here. I have been eyeing one of Jenny's handmade fabric garlands for a beautiful addition above my bed...

I could always use it when a party comes around, but these are too beautiful not to be out every day!

"its my birfday" treasury

2010-09-28T17:59:00.006-04:00

The new happy birthday straw/cupcake/sundae toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field were featured in a "it's my birfday!" treasury...

Thanks and happy early birthday, Maude!

"as dawn breaks" treasury

2010-09-27T18:17:00.007-04:00

The new yellow striped pennant straw toppers designed by NY best selling illustrator, Heather Cahoon, and available from fort & field were featured in a "as dawn breaks" treasury...

Thanks Susantique!

straw/cupcake/sundae toppers

2010-09-26T21:58:00.008-04:00

One of my sisters, a NY Times best selling illustrator, created straw toppers for fort & field that can be used in beverages or on top of cupcakes and sundaes for an embellishment...

I think they are the cutest way to create an instant celebration or to surprise a loved one tucked in with their lunch or along with breakfast at the kitchen table. They are available (along with a few other styles not pictured) in the fort & field shop here.

funky lunch

2010-09-25T16:15:00.006-04:00

A healthy lunch will be so much more appealing to young children when ordinary sandwiches are turned into fun animals, characters, and shapes with inspiration and direction from the book, "Funky Lunch: Happy Food for Happy Children by Mark Northeast...

For more inspiring photos, visit the official website here.

dinner and a movie

2010-09-24T22:42:00.004-04:00

I have always wanted to stretch a sheet across the backside of the house and host a movie night. This amazing vegetable dinner and a movie submitted by Sharon at Cupcakes and Cutlery for City Cradle Design's fall celebration challenge is inspiring enough to make it happen in the next few weeks...

Did you notice all the incredible details...a wheelbarrow filled with blankets for snuggling on a chilly night, covers for the hay bales complete with pockets on the side to hold bottled water, flashlights, and snacks, and an amazing concession stand with well thought out goodies and another stand on the way out to pick up harvest veggies in handmade burlap sacks. This looks like the perfect fall night to me!

love lee soaps

2010-09-22T17:34:00.006-04:00

I get a huge smile on my face when I see soaps made by Love Lee Soaps (yes, these are really soaps!)...

There are so many more to choose from in the Love Lee Soaps shop and not all have to do with food...that's just the theme I went with. I think these would make fantastic party favors or a great gift!

Juno themed baby shower

2010-09-21T22:23:00.005-04:00

This is one of the most creative celebrations I've seen in a long time!...a Juno inspired baby shower including orange and white striped paper bags from fort & field...

Amanda from Heart Tree Home has outlined all the details and even has a printable PDF to make the baby shower even easier from concept to completion. Check it all out here.

alice in wonderland tea party

2010-09-20T19:22:00.006-04:00

I love this Alice in Wonderland tea party! There were mad hatter-esque hats and ties for the boys to wear and tiaras, fairy wings, necklaces, and rings for the girls. The kids drank fruit tea, sang "I'm a little teapot," and made teapot shaped picture frames. There was also a nature walk, Christian singer, and ice cream sundae and candy bar. I bet the kids and adults alike had so much fun!...

The pink & white striped straws, pink ice cream cups and multicolored ice cream spoons can all be found at fort & field. To see more pictures and a complete vendor list, head over to pizzazzerie and The Miracle of Love.

DIY sundae bar

2010-09-19T10:50:00.005-04:00

Renee, the force behind eat.live.shop, created a fabulous sundae bar as part of a welcome home BBQ for her sister...

She dressed up white paper ice cream cups from fort & field with personalized labels and served with blue plastic ice cream spoons, which matched the color scheme. To check out all the other fine details from the sundae bar, see the full blog post here. While you're there, be sure to stay awhile...Renee is a fashion sales agent with a really great eye for fashion, home accessories, and design...I promise you won't be disappointed by the amazing collections and inspiration she passes along each day!

2010-09-18T17:19:00.004-04:00

If you've gone looking for party supplies on etsy lately you will notice many of your favorites can no longer be found there. Etsy has recently stopped allowing some commercial party supplies to be sold since they are neither handmade nor a supply to make a handmade item. But, don't fret! All of your favorites including striped paper straws, abc paper cups, paper ice cream cups, striped plastic ice cream cups, plastic ice cream spoons, and wooden cutlery can be found on the fort & field website. Please stop by for a visit!

root beer cupcakes

2010-09-15T10:10:00.005-04:00

How yummy do these root beer cupcakes from CraziBeautiful look??...

They use red striped cupcake liners and red and white striped straws, which make them look even more adorable!

ROOT BEER CUPCAKES

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
3/4 teaspoon root beer extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup root beer
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon root beer extract
1 pinch salt
3 tablespoons root beer

Cupcake Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2. In medium bowl, cream the butter or margarine with the sugar until light. Beat in the eggs and root beer extract.

3. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture. Beat in the root beer and mix until just combined.

4. Pour batter into cupcake tins and bake at 375 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool then frost with frosting.

Frosting Directions:

1. In a medium bowl beat the 1/2 cup butter or margarine, confectioner’s, 1 teaspoon root beer extract and pinch salt. Beat in 1 to 3 tablespoons root beer soda to reach desired consistency.

2. Spread onto cooled cupcakes.

"this ocean heals" treasury

2010-09-12T12:58:00.008-04:00

Red and white striped paper straws from fort & field were featured in a This Ocean Heals treasury...

Thanks Rachel from Get Ready Set Go! I had actually coincidentally favorited Rachels shop a year or two ago because she makes really neat upcycled suitcases by taking vintage suitcases and adding waterproof pen drawings to some of them...

Love, love, love!

etsy treasuries

2010-09-08T23:13:00.007-04:00

fort & field was featured in two treasuries today! Yay!...

vintage table numbers in a "a note from me to you" treasury...

Such a beautiful collection! Thanks Kiss My Mutt!

yellow striped candy shop treat bags in a "seeing in stripes" treasury...

Very creative to do the rows of colors! Thanks Flip Flop Shop!

Austin and Santino wedding dress

2010-09-07T20:10:00.006-04:00

I missed the whole season so far of Project Runway because I never even knew it had started (boo!). But, I did manage to catch last weeks episode and quite a few episodes of On the Road with Austin and Santino afterwards. The On the Road show follows past Project Runway winners Austin Scarlett and Santino Rice as they travel around the country stopping at people's houses to make them an article of clothing they're needing for some special event. In episode 5, Austin and Santino make a wedding dress and man is it AMAZING! I am no where close to be being married and don't regularly clip wedding ideas, but I SCOURED the internet to try and find still photos of this dress. I had no luck so I ended up watching the episode here and taking screen shots as the show was playing. The pictures don't do the dress justice, but it is so softly draped and has light ruffles all over it that just flutter when she walks. I'm not crazy...this an amazing dress, right!?...

The dress even converts into a shorter dress for the reception by quickly and simply removing the longer train, which appears to just be just a long skirt...

I even love her veil...short and modern...

Oh...Austin and Santino please come make me one too!

golf themed birthday party

2010-09-04T21:36:00.004-04:00

I'm loving this golf themed birthday party thrown by Shelley at How Does She?! Her son loves to golf with dad so the theme was perfect! And, it was nice to see a fresh idea outside of the whole candy shop theme that's being done lately. There's a lot of really special details, but I particularly like the cupcakes made to look like the green...

The "hole in one" donut holes...

And, the club sandwiches (very clever choice of food) with the tees as picks to hold the wrapper and the sandwich together. Also, don't miss the green straws provided by fort & field for the "watering hole"...

The company that was making the kelly green striped straws has stopped producing them, however, light spring green striped straws can be found here. You can see more pictures of this fabulous party here.

"a different kind of birthday" treasury

2010-08-27T23:33:00.004-04:00

Abc paper cups from fort & field were included in a "a different kind of birthday" treasury...

really well thought out, beautiful selection...thanks Anastajia!

housewarming gift (a.k.a. "port-a-party")

2010-08-26T19:16:00.005-04:00

The fabulous Amy over at M-Dashing always has something clever to share and does so in such a witty way you're constantly wishing for more. Another couple of witty folks, Mat and Guerrin, stop by M-Dashing to guest post every once and awhile and I absolutely loved what they shared in their most recent visit...a quite unique housewarming gift or "port-a-party" as they call it. Part of the ingredients to make Sangria are mixed together in mason jars. The other ingredients are provided to the hosts along with a pitcher of flowers, which turns into a finished pitcher of Sangria once all the ingredients are mixed together!...

I can't think of a more fun and interesting housewarming gift! To read the full post and get directions to make your own "port-a-party," head here.

bakers twine dress

2010-08-18T20:58:00.003-04:00

Now this is an adorable new use for bakers twine!...

It's crocheted entirely from red and white striped bakers twine!

via lifeflix

new treasuries

2010-08-17T20:45:00.005-04:00

fort & field has been included in two new letter treasuries by Cristi from Hiya Papaya!

red and white striped paper straws in "s is for..."...

wooden utensils in "u is for..."...

She's almost done with the alphabet...amazing!

make your own gift or treat bags!

2010-08-16T18:39:00.012-04:00

When I picked heart wrapping paper up around Valentines Day I knew it would become useful at some point for a craft project. It's time to shine came this weekend when I decided to try my hand at making my own gift/treat bags...

They come together pretty simply and could be made out of any paper...magazine pages, scrapbook paper, newspaper, old sheet music, vintage maps, etc. I wanted to be able to make them food safe so I created the measurements around small and medium glassine bags (the tutorial gives measurements for the small size and measurements for the medium size are in parentheses).

Cut a piece out of your paper of choice that measures 7 1/2" W X 6" H (10 1/2" W X 8 1/4" H).

Put paper on a flat surface right side up. Measure in 2 1/8" (2 5/8") on one side and 1 7/8" (2 7/8") on the other side making a light mark with a pencil at these spots.

Turn paper over and fold in at those marks.

Glue selvages together with a glue stick.

Cut off the top edge of what will be the bag with a decorative scissor.

Lay paper down right side up. Measure 1" from the bottom edge and make a light mark with a pencil.

Flip the bag over and fold over at that mark.

Unfold. Then, fold both corners in towards the just creased line.

Fold bottom of bag up to creased lined.

Glue along this just folded area.

Fold the bottom of the bag up towards itself and press until the glue has set a bit.

All done!

If you'd like to make your bags food safe as well, get small or medium glassine bags.

And, cut the tops off so the front is even with the back.

Insert the glassine bag into your just created paper bag and it is is now ready to fill with a tasty treat!

fort & field is on the front page of etsy!!!!....

2010-08-16T12:26:00.002-04:00

One of the 100 yard cards of mint green striped bakers twine was featured on the front page of etsy today! So exciting!

"i'm yours!" treasury

2010-08-15T19:41:00.004-04:00

Red and white striped paper straws from fort & field were featured in an "I'm Yours!" treasury...

Thanks Lucky Little Dot! (Very cute vintage items in the Lucky Little Dot shop by the way...be sure to check it out!)

summer party

2010-08-14T15:43:00.004-04:00

Susana from Citrus and Orange purchased green and white striped paper straws and blue and white striped paper straws from fort & field for her daughters birthday party...

It turned out so beautiful (don't you just love the colors she chose, especially in front of the patio backdrop?!) and was featured on Amy Atlas yesterday. Congrats Susana!!

"p is for..." treasury

2010-08-13T14:15:00.003-04:00

I love Cristi from Hiya Papaya! She's included fort & field in another one of her letter treasuries. This time it's the abc paper cups in a "p is for..." treasury...

"b is for..." treasury

2010-08-07T23:42:00.004-04:00

A patchwork caterpillar softie fort & field was included in a "b is for..." treasury because of the books he is sitting on top of...

Thanks as always Cristi from Hiya Papaya!

ice cream cone cupcakes...part deuce

2010-08-07T13:07:00.005-04:00

Remember these ice cream cone cupcakes that I thought were so cute? Well, CupcakeDD submitted a photo to my "Cupcake Picks" flickr group of some amazing ice cream cone cupcakes she made for the fourth...

I just can't get enough of these ice cream cone cupcakes!...the possibilities!

tv dinner cupcakes

2010-08-05T06:47:00.006-04:00

How cute are these tv dinner cupcakes?...

They are from the book Hello Cupcake! Irresistibly Playful Creations Anyone Can Make by Karen Tack. You can get the recipe and directions from the book or on the Martha site here. Martha doesn't have a photo of the whole dinner together so this photo comes from Black Eiffel...

Love them! I wonder if I could actually eat them, though...it really might mess with my mind to bite into a cupcake that looks like drumstick. Sort of like the gum in Willy Wonka in the chocolate factory...

flying high birthday party

2010-08-03T06:58:00.004-04:00

I just love the idea of a party theme around kites (You may remember this kite flying birthday party I posted about last year). Well, I ran across another adorable one from Tracey Lau...

I especially love the cloud shaped marshmallows. Adorable and so fitting! After enjoying all of the goodies, the kids decorated kites which they flew in a field. Now that is my kind of party!

To read more about the party and get sources for all of the lovely details, see the full post here. Blue and white striped paper straws can be purchased from fort & field.

grey and white striped straws

2010-07-30T18:35:00.006-04:00

Grey and white striped straws arrived this week at fort & field and they were featured in two Etsy treasuries today. Yay!

I Will Be Waiting...

And, Shall we go on a picnic?"...

Thanks Hiya Papaya and Oh Feathers!

packaging from Blush Design Studio

2010-07-29T09:46:00.004-04:00

Remember these fab moving announcements from Blush Design Studio? Well, Liz the mastermind behind Blush ordered a cone of chocolate and white striped bakers twine to use in packaging her goodies. She just revealed in packaging 101 how final orders get packed for shipping...

I am particularly fond of packaging and so I get very excited when I can get a sneak peek like this. The care Liz takes is just amazing! Getting a delivery of Liz's gorgeous letterpress creations would be exciting enough in itself, but unwrapping these beauties would make it feel like Christmas times two!

ice cream maker in a jar

2010-07-21T21:12:00.005-04:00

Shannon over at Furious Shirley purchased some striped straws and a rainbow pack of striped paper bags from fort & field for her upcoming wedding...

She is using the striped straws to serve along with the drinks and is using the striped paper bags in some really cute picnic boxes inspired by these...

Such a cute idea!

Shannon shares so many great ideas on her blog. One of my favorites is directions to make "shake your own ice cream party favors" by putting all the ingredients to make ice cream in a jar along with directions. The jar acts like an ice cream maker when the jar is shook.

Wow! So cute, right?! The original creator of this Vicky from The City Cradle dropped these off to neighbors on her morning walk, but they would also make perfect party favors or as Shannon suggested as party favors for her summer wedding. I can't wait to try these!!

"soft around the edges" treasury

2010-07-17T22:36:00.004-04:00

Bakers twine cones from fort & field were featured in a soft around the edges treasury...

Thanks Louise!

i love caposhi

2010-07-14T22:57:00.006-04:00

As you'll read on the i love caposhi blog, I met the creator of Caposhi, Anastajia, when she purchased some things from my shop. I was immediately drawn to her warmth and spunk and the transaction turned into us chatting back and forth. Anastajia is working on all of the details to open an etsy shop in the next month or so. I am so excited to see what she will offer and how she will put it all together. I think she's got some wonderful things in the works! Anastajia is super creative and I absolutely adore the photos she took of the items she purchased from me...

I might need to commission her to take photos of all my items for me! I just love the display she put together and the vintage quality of the photos. Thanks Anastajia!

"circus whimsy" treasury

2010-07-14T22:27:00.004-04:00

"Happiness is a peanut" candy, treat, or gift bags from fort & field were included in a circus whimsy treasury...

Thanks Kate!

ice cream cone cupcakes

2010-07-04T13:15:00.004-04:00

How cute are these cupcakes baked in ice cream cones??...

Chocolate cupcakes are actually baked in the ice-cream cones and a thick layer of frosting gives the cupcakes the appearance of real ice-cream cones.

ICE CREAM CONE CUPCAKES
Makes 14

Ingredients:

14 flat-bottom wafer ice-cream cones
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk
5 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream

Cupcake Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Stand cones on an ungreased baking sheet.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; set dry ingredients aside.

4. Fill a medium saucepan with water and set over medium heat; bring water to a boil. Reduce heat, and let water simmer.

5. In the metal bowl of an electric mixer, combine milk, 2 1/2 ounces chocolate, and 1 stick butter.

6. Set bowl over simmering water, stirring occasionally, until butter and chocolate have melted.

7. Remove bowl from heat; stir in 1 cup sugar. Transfer bowl to mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.

8. Add reserved dry ingredients, and beat until well combined.

9. Add egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla; beat to combine.

10. Pour batter into cones, filling each cone three-quarters full.

11. Transfer baking sheet to oven, and bake until domes form and a cake tester inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven, and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To keep the cones from toppling over in the oven, cover the top of an angel-food cake pan with two sheets of tinfoil, and insert cones into holes punched with a knife. You can also try folding tinfoil into strips and arranging it on a baking sheet in a gridlike fashion to support the cones.

Icing Directions:

1. Combine remaining 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar and cream in a heavy saucepan.

2. Set over high heat, and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, without stirring, 5 minutes.

3. Remove pan from heat; add remaining 2 1/2 ounces chocolate, stirring until melted. Stir in remaining 4 tablespoons butter and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.

4. Chill, stirring occasionally, until icing is cool enough to spread. Using an offset spatula, spread icing over cupcake tops.

5. Serve.

For a festive look, cover with colorful sprinkles. You can also use a thick cream-cheese frosting, which gives the cupcakes an uncanny resemblance to soft-serve vanilla ice-cream cones.

"party with retro red, white, and blue" treasury

2010-07-03T20:30:00.007-04:00

Red and white striped paper straws and blue and white striped paper straws from fort & field were featured in a "party with red, white, and blue" treasury...

Thanks so much Aggie!

If you haven't been by Aggie's shop Wanda & Krystyna, you really must! She has wonderful embellished cupcake boxes and treat bags...

"wrap it up" treasury

2010-06-30T14:03:00.004-04:00

red and white striped paper bags from fort & field were featured in a "wrap it up" treasury...

She did a really great job picking items! I think I clicked on almost everything to go to the sellers shop for more info. Love it!

Thanks Parkers Prints!

ideas for using the abc paper cups

2010-06-23T12:06:00.006-04:00

Joa has some cute ideas on how she has used the abc paper cups...

for a pretty window garden...

As gift packaging by filling with treats, wrapping in cellophane, and tying with bakers twine...

She used the recipient's initial to personalize it. Very cute!

in the tv room...

abc paper cups

2010-06-22T12:15:00.006-04:00

I have been so excited to show you these fun abc paper cups!...

Kids will have fun at the dinner table spelling out words with the letters! Use them for a party to spell out the theme or words of encouragement, and guests can differentiate their cup from everyone else's since there are 14 different designs! Use them for craft projects and picnics!...They're just too cute for words!

There are 30 paper cups in the assortment. Each cup has two different letters, one on each side of the cup. There are multiples of the most commonly used letters so plenty of words can be spelled at a time! Two cups also have a heart on them for even more fun combinations.

Cups are made from paper and are disposable.

Each cup measures 3" high with a 2 6/8" diameter at the widest part.

Get your own here.

"striped red" treasury

2010-06-21T03:46:00.004-04:00

Red and white striped paper straws from fort & field were featured in a "striped red" treasury...

Thanks Lunahoo!

fabulous birthday party

2010-06-20T15:10:00.007-04:00

Jessica over at Party Box Design purchased some hot pink and white striped straws from me for her daughters second birthday party. I just saw photos from the big day and the party turned out beautiful! Jessica thought of every detail...and I mean every detail!...

I love the combination of the pink with pops of yellow...isn't the hydrangea and citrus centerpiece just gorgeous! The cupcake tier was so cute with the ribbon trim, polka dot cupcake liners, and party hat picks. The table display of "Charli-licious" lemonade and pink and yellow starbursts was really great, and I loved the canning jar glasses for the lemonade with custom "2" drink tags. The tulle pom poms created a really nice decorative touch to the backyard affair and are an interesting take on the tissue pom poms that have been popular lately. There were even custom water bottles and party hats! Check out more photos here and here.

If you've got an upcoming party, Party Box Design can help you with everything from planning to signature invitations and decorations as well as cupcakes for those in the Baltimore area. Visit the website for more information.

"when the circus comes to town" treasury

2010-06-20T14:19:00.005-04:00

Cupcake liners just arrived at fort & field and the candy striped ones were included in a "when the circus comes to town" treasury...

I love the retro feel and I think the items featured were very unique choices for a circus treasury. Thanks REiNViNTAGE!

a "campground wedding" photo shoot

2010-06-18T09:56:00.002-04:00

I adore this "campground wedding" photo shoot...

Look at more photos and find out about those who put it together here. It has so many possibilities not just for a wedding, but to incorporate pieces in for any sort of party. You could really do it all in your backyard.

"super nice ice creamy things" treasury

2010-06-18T09:46:00.003-04:00

Plastic ice cream spoons from fort & field, this time the multi-colored set, have been included in another treasury called "super nice ice creamy things"...

Thanks Meg!

"time for ice cream" treasury

2010-06-17T09:41:00.004-04:00

Robins egg blue ice cream spoons by fort & field were featured in a "time for ice cream" treasury...

Thanks Marta!

moving announcements

2010-06-16T02:48:00.007-04:00

I think these moving announcements by Blush Design Studio are so clever...

I mean..."I've packed up my basket"...how much more clever can you get than that. There's even a bicycle letter pressed into the flap of the envelope. And, the design on the card and the envelope wrapper look like the wicker of a bicycle basket. Love them! I will not be moving for oh say maybe the next 40 years since I own a home, but they're still great to look at.

beautiful...

2010-06-11T11:45:00.003-04:00

via Pinga Amor

"vintage wedding" treasury

2010-06-02T11:56:00.003-04:00

Vintage table numbers from fort & field have been featured in a "vintage wedding" treasury inspired by wedding season and Mad Men episodes on repeat...

Thanks Song Sparrow! It expires on Thursday at 2:55am so I hope we make it to the front page!

eco travel lid

2010-06-01T10:48:00.006-04:00

With summertime potlucks and picnics already on the horizon, Allyson Hills tutorial for an eco travel lid is the perfect quick and easy project for transporting dishes of specially prepared food...

"in the navy" treasury

2010-05-28T10:08:00.005-04:00

Navy and white striped bakers twine from fort & field has been included in a "In the Navy" etsy treasury...

Thanks so much Katie!

"big top wedding" treasury

2010-05-27T11:29:00.002-04:00

Red and white striped paper straws from fort & field were included in a "big top wedding" treasury...

Thanks My Silly Bear!

tie dye patriotic bunting

2010-05-25T12:06:00.002-04:00

Very cute tie dye patriotic bunting DIY over at Family Fun...

"black black & white white" treasury

2010-05-23T00:16:00.007-04:00

Vintage table numbers from fort & field are featured in a treasury called black black & white white.

Thanks Sugar Chills!

numbered push pins...

2010-04-30T18:03:00.005-04:00

just added to the shop

in seven different colors. Use as you would any normal push pin. Or, rank the projects you want or need to work on first by putting in number order. The pins could also be used for wedding purposes to notify guests which table they will be sitting at by using them on the table seating map.