Hint Hint Hubby: Valentine’s Day Gifts 2022

Brittany

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January 21, 2022

Hint Hint Hubby: Valentine’s Day Gifts 2022

Something Fancy

A classic Valentine’s day gift and one that will hardly ever disappoint, jewelry is at the top of our list. I’m guessing I’m not the only one who loves to look at pretty jewelry but passes when I see the price tag. Usually it’s not worth it unless it’s a special occasion. Well, we’re giving you permission–Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to get your S.O. something that sparkles and is fancy enough to make her blush. If she won’t spend the money on herself, why don’t you?

Pamper Her

Everyone deserves to feel a little pampered now and then, and we think Valentine’s Day is one of the best occasions there is to make your loved one feel special. Give her a bath pillow and some bath soak, light some candles, and let her relax and read after a long day at work. An eye mask and some luxurious face creams wouldn’t go awry, either.

For Her Hobbies

Women love it when you tap into their interests, so Valentine’s Day gifts that are geared towards her favorite past-times will be an instant hit. Does she have a green thumb? Bingo. Anything plant related will surely surprise as well as delight. Lover of food and gatherings (who isn’t)? Try this lovely charcuterie board or these cheese knives.

To Decorate

Another surprising and spot on Valentine’s Day gift your S.O. will love are some home decor items. Gift her with a pop of color to add to her at-home office or work space, or a beautiful accent chair for your living space. And a dazzling throw pillow or lampshade can do no wrong.

More Inspiration

The gift ideas don’t end here. Honestly, I could go on all day with Valentine’s Day gift ideas. If you loved these ideas and are looking for more, check out our shop! There are endless options for every price point, and all are lovely options for such a special day. Oh, and stay tuned–we’ve got a gift guide for men’s gifts coming up soon!

How to Jumpstart Your Creativity

Brittany

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January 20, 2022

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Most People Can Be Creative

So here’s the thing: most people are more creative than they give themselves credit for. The trouble is, they don’t believe it. Often, that lack of belief comes from one bad experience that’s convinced them they just don’t have the talent. A friend of mine, for example, was told by her elementary school music teacher she had a lousy voice. She’s been self-conscious ever since, though may people since then have told her she has a lovely voice.

We’re not talking about singing here, but my point is that it’s easy to be critical of your abilities when someone you respect and look up to tells you you’re no good. To be honest, hearing stories like my friend’s makes my blood boil. Mentors should never do that! Most of the time, they’re wrong, anyway. I really do believe the biggest impediment to our ability to do anything is our belief that we are incapable. And the best way to help someone feel capable is believing in them and giving them the resources to learn how! So here’s my little push to all of you: you are capable! It may take time and patience, but we hope these ways to jumpstart your creativity will help get you going in the right direction.

How to Jumpstart Your Creativity

Look For Inspiration

One of the best ways to jumpstart your creativity is to look for inspiration. Just start with things you like! It’s a lie that everything you do has to be 100% original. It’s almost impossible to find anyone that hasn’t been influenced by others in their ideas. We are all inspired by one another, and you can use that inspiration to fuel your brain, get outside of your head, and come up with fresh new ideas. And honestly, sometimes copying what others have done is an excellent way to get you started (just avoid plagiarism and violating copyright laws). Often, it’s in the process of making something that you get sparks for new ideas, so start with something you like.

Here’s an old inspo board from years ago:

We love Pinterest as a means to gather inspiration. We also make lots of mood boards, and make sure the space we’re trying to get creative in is full of inspiration to reference. Print things out, use magazine clippings, etc. and decorate your space with things that inspire you.

Here’s another inspo board from my bathroom remodel:

Set Up A Creative Space

Speaking of places to put the inspiration you gather, set up a space for yourself where you can feel creative! Let it be a stress-free environment where you can concentrate and let the juices flow (Hint: not the dining room table during dinner prep). I’ve found that it’s so much easier to be creative when I have a designated space where I can concentrate, look for inspiration, and store all my supplies so everything is on hand when I need it.

If you’re looking for inspiration in setting up your creative space, here’s my newly-renovated office!

And here’s Jane and Jenny’s office space!

Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

Don’t be too hard on yourself. These tips on how to jumpstart your creativity aren’t something that will make you Matisse overnight. It takes time and patience, so keep trying even if you feel like you’ve failed (you haven’t). Don’t give up on yourself just because you didn’t like one thing you did a long time ago. Give it another go! It’s like a muscle you have to exercise.

Also, remember that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Some people are extremely precise when it comes to painting details, but others are great at identifying color schemes for their design. So don’t sell yourself short. Just because you don’t feel confident at one aspect of creating doesn’t mean you don’t have something to offer!

Just so you don’t feel quite so alone, here was our recent epic fail with marbled pumpkins:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The House that Lars Built-DIY (@houselarsbuilt)

Believe me, that wasn’t a first, and it won’t be the last time we don’t get a project right.

Talk to Others

If you like to be social, start a group or invite friends to come make things with you–it can help to talk to others if you’re not feeling very creative. That’s why we all work in the Lars studio together–we love bouncing ideas off each other and brainstorming. The more brains you have working on a creative project, the better. If you feel shy about showing what you’re working on to others, don’t feel pressured, though. It’s easy to get discouraged when you’re not quite ready to show your project to the world and you receive some premature criticism. Wait until you’re ready. But when you do feel ready, it can be beneficial to receive feedback on what you’re working on. Constructive criticism can be really helpful to take you to the next level of excellence.

Here’s a photo of team Lars! It’s a few years old, but you get the idea.

Keep it Low Key and Have Fun

Most of all, one of the best ways to jumpstart your creativity is to keep it low key and just have fun! Don’t pile the expectations onto yourself. Experiment! You likely won’t get something you’re ecstatic about the first time, but then again, who has? Remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect right away. You’re just learning, and learning takes time.

Some Simple Crafts to Get You Started

To give you a place to start if you’re not sure where to begin, here are some great crafts to jumpstart your creativity without being too intimidating.

Easy DIY Valentines Crafts

This is a great post to turn to for easy crafts that also happen to be seasonal, as Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Many of these crafts require little more than a little cutting and gluing. You can make a whole host of adorable valentines in a snap.

Lars Shop Kits

Kits are a great place to start if you want a craft that’s less intimidating. Our kits give you all the supplies you need, so you can plop down in your chair and be done in a flash! We give you instructions that walk you through each step, too, so you won’t have to puzzle through it on your own.

Paper Weaving From Craft the Rainbow

In honor of Craft the Rainbow, this paper weaving project is a great project to start with if you’re just dipping your toes. Weaving paper is a cinch, but looks so delicate and lovely when you’re finished. Frame a few and you’ve got some instant inspo for your creative space!

Craft The Rainbow

Speaking of Craft The Rainbow, if you’d like to read a bit more about it in the book’s two year anniversary post, here you go! We would highly recommend buying it–there are 40 colorful paper projects to get you started on your crafting journey, not to mention some anecdotes that will (hopefully) help you understand that crafting can be for you, me, and everyone.

You got this! We would love to hear your stories–what’s your journey with creativity been like?

Our Favorite Printable Valentines

Brittany

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January 14, 2022

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Lars Shop Artists

For those of you who may be unaware, we have many amazing artists whose work we feature in our shop. They’ve collaborated with us to make all kinds of things, from home decor items to puzzles. One of the highlights of the year is seeing all the beautiful valentines these talented artists come up with! The best perk about the valentines made by our artist friends is that most all of them are printables. That means you can still fulfill your need for fresh and fun valentines without a big time commitment. Print them off and have your kids assemble them for their school valentines! But don’t worry, adults love them too. In fact, they’re perfect for all ages, really. Give them to anyone who needs a little love. Take a look, we have a feeling you’ll find something that’s just right for you!

Our Favorite Printable Valentines

Printable Valentines Hearts For a Face Mask

Perfect for a Valentine’s Day in the middle of a pandemic, we love Jessie Kanelos Weiner’s printable valentines hearts for a face mask. Just print and cut, and you’ll be donning this festive face mask all day.

You’re the Top Valentines

Also by Jessica Kanelos Weiner, these little valentines are classic, playful, and just the thing for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day.

Printable Vase Valentines

We LOVE these printable vase valentines, designed by the talented Angie Stalker. Playful and whimsical, just print them off and attach a flower to them and you’re ready to give them to your loved ones. One thing that has us totally sold, is that once you’re done with them as valentines, keep them up on your wall for a fun pop of color and texture all year round (bonus: make a few paper flowers to go with them, perhaps)? If you’re interested, here’s another foldable variation.

Valentines Heart Card

Also by Angie Stalker, meet the valentines heart card. If you’re feeling like celebrating Valentine’s Day with a very literal pun, this clever little card is for you.

IOU Cards and Envelopes

Angie Stalker does it again! We love her IOU cards, complete with matching envelopes. This is such a fun twist on valentines, and is such a perfect opportunity to give a service-oriented gift to your loved ones this year. We all love chocolate, but how about some luxurious foot rubs? a surprise dinner? Just scratch off the sticker to reveal the IOU assignment.

Valentine Postcard by Emily Isabella

Next on the list of our favorite printable valentines is this valentine postcard by Emily Isabella. Nothing says Valentine’s Day in Paris like these ornate little beauties. They’re delicate, classy, and absolute eye-candy to look at. I’m definitely getting some Madeline vibes, here. I have to say, I’d be ecstatic to get one of these sweet little valentine postcards in the mail.

Love Potion Valentines

By artist Danielle Kroll, these love potion valentines are a creative twist on a traditional valentine card. We’re not saying you should give your S.O. a love potion, but we think this card just might do the trick.

Strawberry Dress/I Love You More Than Paris Valentines

Another of our favorite printable valentines are these strawberry dress valentines. Sweet, simple and adorable, we can’t get enough of them or their sisters, “I love you more than Paris” valentines! They say “I love you” in an absolutely whimsical and dreamy way. Michelle Christensen of My Little Bellville really outdid herself with these charmers.

Tear Apart Valentines

Eclectic, original and so appropriate for the season, these tear apart valentines are a sweet idea. They’re the perfect valentine for a best friend or significant other. Give one half away, keep the other. Just like a friendship bracelet, but with valentines!

Zoo Valentines

Okay, we have to say, we’re completely obsessed with these adorable zoo valentines. Perfect for a Valentine’s Day party for kids or for your kiddos to take to school, these valentines are one of our favorite printable valentines of all time. They’re just so versatile. Fun for kids, fun for adults, these sweet little guys check all the boxes! Jessica Whittaker is a true master.

Historical Figure Valentines

Also by Jessica Whittaker, these historical figure valentines are a creative way to celebrate love day. If you’re a fan of clever puns, these are for you. You won’t be able to hold in the giggles.

Valentines Stamp Cards and Envelopes

These sweet, supersized stamp cards are perfect for your long distance love needs. Are you surprised they made the list of our favorite printable valentines? This adorable twist on postage stamps is just the thing to brighten your loved one’s Valentine’s Day. I mean, can you imagine opening the mailbox to find this?! Day made. Thank you, Josefina Schargorodsky!

Kiss Me Swallow Valentine

If you love birds, look no further. We are drooling at how cute this little swallow valentine is! Classy and playful, it relies on beautiful simplicity to create a love note your significant other will treasure forever. Hilary Onyon did a spectacular job, we have to say.

Hey You Carnation Valentine

Also by Hilary Onyon, we love this bold, two tone valentine with a little floral accent. It’s simple, clean, and distinct, and adds a fun pop of color to your valentine card collection. It definitely makes the list of our favorite printable valentines.

Cupid Valentine

We love the refreshing pop of blue on this cupid valentine by Hilary Onyon.

Heart Tile Valentine

This heart tile valentine is such a clever idea. Nestled among the shingles is a heart with a hidden message on it! Folk-art inspired tiled roof, we love this modern twist. And the colors? Perfection. We love Julie Marabelle’s work!

Valentine Chocolate Wrap

A clever twist on Valentine’s Day cards, we love the idea of a printable chocolate bar wrapper! The retro designs by Normandie Luscher are fun and bold, and it feels like stepping in to a Willy Wonka Chocolate shop. Here’s a candle wrap alternative, if you’re not feeling like gifting chocolate this year.

Valentine cards by Rosie Harbottle

Reminiscent of a dreamy Valentine’s Day in Europe, we love the painterly illustrations on these lovely cards. Rosie Harbottle’s brushwork is fantastic and the colors bold and subtle at the same time, for a dreamy effect. If our travel is limited due to COVID, let’s bring all those travel vibes back home with these cards.

You’re Eggstra Special Valentine

Last but not least on the list for today of our favorite printable valentines is our eggstra special valentine. If you’re a fan of food puns, you’ll definitely want to take a closer look at these adorable and funny little valentines by Michéle Brummer Everett. They’re a great option for kids, especially those little ones who aren’t feeling very lovey and are scared of cooties. Another fun variation on the egg valentines are these frog valentines, or these beet valentines, all designed by Michéle.

More Inspiration

This list of our favorite printable valentines is definitely not comprehensive, and we have many more printable valentine options available in our shop! Check out our full Valentine’s Day collection here, complete with printables, stickers, hair ties, and more.

Easy DIY Valentines

Brittany

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January 12, 2022

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Best Easy DIY Valentines

Growing up, Valentine’s Day was one of my favorite holidays. I had so much fun making valentines! But it was sometimes hard to think of original valentines every year. We’re trying to make it easy on you this year so if you’re up against a creative block, all is not lost. Here are some easy DIY valentines that are so fun you’ll want to start a tradition of making them every year!

Heart Pom Poms

These heart pom poms are such a sweet Valentine’s Day craft! Use them to decorate or put them on your valentines cards and you have an instant hit. We love their versatility and we think you might, too.

Valentine’s Poppers

Not unlike our popular Christmas poppers, these Valentine’s Day poppers are the perfect thing to fill with candy and give to your loved ones. Not to big and not too small, they’re just right. Send them with your kids to school on Valentine’s Day, or use them as party favors for your Valentine’s Day party this year. Bonus: they’re so easy. It’s a great craft to do with friends or family on a lazy afternoon.

Tootsie Pop Cherry Valentines

These tootsie pop cherry valentines are a fun and creative way to decorate your regular old tootsie pops and give them that loving flair. It’s the perfect little package to drop into your friends’ valentines boxes! I have to say, tootsie pops weren’t all that interesting to me, but I’m changed ever since we discovered this brilliant hack. And friends, they’re so easy you’ll be coming back to them for years to come.

Apple Basket Valentines

We couldn’t get tootsie pops off the brain after our tootsie pop cherry valentines, so we decided to do another rendition with our apple basket valentines! These adorable little packages just make us want spring already, apples complete with leaves, worms and all. Tip: they make a great party favor with a unique theme that’s a breath of fresh air from all the hearts.

Galentine’s Day Gift Boxes

We’re obsessed with these Galentine’s day gift boxes! They double as a Galentine’s day craft and gift box–put in little goodies from your Galentine’s Day party after you’ve decorated it with the gals. We love the ways you can customize them, add glitter, pom poms, the works.

Spring Wreath Made of Paper Daffodils

Now, I know this isn’t technically an easy DIY valentine, but let me just make a plug for this adorable spring wreath. Perfect decoration for Valentine’s Day with those lovely flowers, this wreath also doubles as a gift topper for valentines gifts (make a bouquet out of a few of the flowers) or a stunning table centerpiece for love day. Then, use it again with the gals for your Galentine’s Day celebration! We could all use a little springy pick-me-up at this time of year.

DIY Doily Honeycomb Decorations

Doilies are such a traditional Valentine’s Day decoration, we had to add this Lars rendition of them to our list of easy DIY valentines. These DIY doily honeycomb decorations are the perfect way to decorate for love day! Hang them from the mantlepiece, bannister, ceiling, or add them as a clever gift topper to your loved ones’ gifts. They’re so delicate and beautiful it would be a shame not to DIY with these.

Cherry Wreath Kit

Another not strictly valentine but very appropriate for the season is our cherry wreath, which comes as a kit that you can find in our shop! Bonus, preorders are open through the end of this week, so get a jump on the holiday and decorate with this adorable wreath. Even better, you can dive fully into the cherry theme and make our tootsie pop cherries, too. We love that with this kit you have everything you need to make this lovely wreath, so you don’t even have to search around to find the right materials. Sound fun and relaxing? It does to us, too!

Bedazzled tote bags

If you’re not in the mood for a traditional valentines box this year, we’d highly recommend trying out these bedazzled tote bags. Perfect for your child to decorate and bring to school, and also great for your Galentine’s Day party, this tote says “love day” like nothing else! I mean, who can say no to those bedazzled lips? No one? That’s right, I didn’t think so.

Shrinky Dink Pins

Okay, I love all the easy DIY valentines crafts on this list, but these bite-sized shrinky dink pins are something that always comes to mind when I’m trying to think of valentines crafts. I mean, just look at them! So sweet, right?! I know what accessory I’m adding to my outfit on Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day. I could talk about these tiny beauties all day. They’re also the perfect valentine to give to someone if you’re trying to keep a new years resolution about healthy eating. Only, I wish I could eat these. Maybe we should make an edible version?

Valentine’s Day Piñata boxes

Now, these aren’t strictly valentines either, but they sure are an impeccable way to store them! I wish I’d had one of these babies when I was in elementary school. It would have been my pride and joy. Now you have the opportunity to give your own child that same joy when you make these with them! If you need me, I’ll be in the studio, making that lip-shaped piñata box.

Paper Lipstick Valentines

These paper lipstick valentines are a creative, cute and unique way to do your own DIY valentine. We love how customizable these valentines are, and you can even recycle your toilet paper rolls and turn them into the most glamorous versions of themselves. Don’t you think this would make a great Galentine’s Day craft? We do!

Printable Paintbrush Valentines

Okay, these printable paintbrush valentines are SO fun. They’re a perfect options for your kiddies who need a fresh and original valentine to take to school with them. Fill them with color-coded candy and you’re ready to go!

Printable Pencil Valentines

Another great go-to for your kids’ school valentines, these printable pencil valentines are quick, easy, and cute! Aren’t those the requirements? We sure love the fun pop of reds and pinks, and the graphic florals. Pair them with red pencils and lollipops and you’re all set.

Printable Valentine’s Day Boxes

We love this idea to put a handful of treats in for your kids’ school valentines party, or for yours, for that matter! These sweet little treat boxes appeal to kids and adults alike, and are a quick and easy craft that requires no more than a bit of folding to come to life.

We would love to see which easy DIY valentines crafts you make this year!

More Inspiration

Check out this post on 18 beautiful valentines crafts for more ideas of crafts you can make for the special day!

Our Top Ten Posts of 2021

Brittany

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January 6, 2022

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Our Top Ten Posts Of 2021

I have to admit, it was a fun surprise to see which posts came out on top. 2021 was an eventful year and it was nostalgic to go back through those memorable projects we had so much fun with. Keep scrolling to see what your Lars 2021 favorites were! As you reminisce with us, consider this a perfect opportunity to revisit these must-do projects and get inspiration for the coming year.

1. How to Press Flowers in 3 Methods

Winning by a landslide, our number one post of 2021 was How to Press Flowers in 3 Methods. If you didn’t get a chance to see this the first time, I would highly recommend trying out these methods for pressing flowers come Spring. Beci Orpin is a genius, and we were thrilled to feature her tutorial on how to press flowers.

2. (Fall)ing in Love With Quilted Coats

Remember our obsession with quilted coats? We sure do. (Fall)ing in Love With Quilted Coats is a post dedicated to those oh so lovely statement pieces you’ve been seeing everywhere. An element of cottagecore (which you can learn more about in the original post), these coats are surprisingly timeless, while also being unique and one-of-a-kind in both style and class. If this is your first time hearing about quilted coats, you’re in for a real treat.

Now, we know there’s been some debating going on, so don’t worry, we’ve addressed that, too. If you’re interested in reading more about it, see our post here for more.

Oh, and here’s our very own quilted coat! And as an ode to COVID, here’s another variation.

3. Baby Lars’ French-Inspired Rattan Nursery

Our third post in our top ten posts of 2021 was the Baby Lars’ French-Inspired Rattan Nursery. I mean, how could that rattan in all its glory not make the top ten list?! There’s a reason we’re so obsessed with it, and you will be too once you read this post, if you haven’t already.

4. Meet Brittany’s New Rainbow Office

An ode to all the home renovations we’ve been doing since we moved into our new house, Meet Brittany’s New Rainbow Office was such a fun renovation to add to the list! From the rainbow carpet to the rainbow calendar, I honestly love sitting in my office. Just ask the rest of the team, it’s where you’ll find me most of the time. Can you blame me?

5. Make The Midsummer Floral Crown

The fifth post of our top ten posts of 2021 was Make The Midsummer Floral Crown. Come summer, you won’t be able to resist dipping your toes in the water and trying out these lovely little floral crowns. Perfect for a summer tea party, picnic, wedding, or gathering with the gals, they also double as a quick and easy summer craft! We love how dainty and refined these customizable crowns feel, and would highly recommend checking them out if you haven’t already.

6. 3 DIY Lampshades Made With Unexpected Recycled Materials

Okay, I could go on for a long time about these 3 DIY Lampshades Made With Unexpected Recycled Materials. It’s amazing what lighting can do to complete the look of a room, and these DIY lampshades do just that. We had so much fun making them, and if you haven’t had a chance, head over to the original post and give them a try! The best part is, you can cut down on environmental waste while you make something beautiful for your home. Yes please!

7. 3 Pie Crust Designs To Wow Your Guests This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and a large reason why has to do with the pies. These 3 Pie Crust Designs To Wow Your Guests This Thanksgiving were such a fun way to still do something creative with the Thanksgiving food, while also avoiding the actual cooking (this was a requisite for me, as anyone who knows me can attest–cooking is not my thing). I’m totally okay not cooking, as long as I get to help beautify the already-made foods! And I have to say, these pies do look stunning. So! Keep them in the back of you mind as you prep for this year’s Thanksgiving. I know it’s a ways away, but it can’t hurt to be prepared, right?

8. In The Mood For: Frida Kahlo Inspired Interior Design

Next from our top ten posts of 2021 was In The Mood For: Frida Kahlo Inspired Interior Design. I mean, am I really ever not in the mood for Frida Kahlo inspired interior design? It’s a merging of two of my favorite things! This post, dedicated to helping inspire your inner Frida as you decorate your home, is one that is useful for far more than just a glance through can provide. Take a look, and just see if you aren’t inspired to take a leaf out of Frida Kahlo’s book. Or painting.

9. Printable Summer Pie Boxes

Are you ready for Summer? I know it’s only January, but I have a feeling I’m not the only one already itching for those warm summer days and endless opportunities for outdoor parties and get togethers. Well, if you really want to be prepared to wow your guests, these Printable Summer Pie Boxes are the perfect thing! Everyone knows what a pain it is to get to the end of a party, only to realize there are delicious treats left but no to-go boxes to put them in. That’s where these summer pie boxes come in. They’re adorable, but perfectly functional for all your pie-storing and transporting needs. Oh, and keep them around–you can use them in November for those adorable pies you made.

10. DIY Doily Honeycomb Decorations

Last but definitely not least on our top ten posts of 2021 are our DIY Doily Honeycomb Decorations. A variation on our Honeycomb ornaments, these delicate little decorations are the perfect thing to celebrate your relationships this Valentine’s Day. And how convenient, it’s just about a month away, so now’s the perfect time to get decorating!

What Would You Like to See This Year?

We loved getting to reminisce with you through our top ten posts of 2021. It’s sparked a lot of ideas, and we’re thrilled for a new year full of engaging projects to keep us all sane and happy!

We would love to know: what would you like to see from us in 2022?

New Printable Valentines from Artists We Love

Brittany

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February 3, 2021

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New Printable Valentines from Artists We Love

It has always been a goal of ours to fill our shop with unique pieces of art from artists of different backgrounds and styles. Our print shop is full of those artists, with styles ranging from bold and graphic, to delicate and flowery, to detailed and life-like. This year we are so excited to offer work from 16 of our Lars Print Shop artists in a brand new form – printable valentines!

This year’s Valentine’s Day Shop has truly become a work of art, and it is now OPEN and accessible to you! Click here to see the valentines cards these amazing artists created to help you spread the love this year. And below you can learn more about all of the contributing artists!

How Printable Valentines Work

First, browse all of the new valentine options here and below. Each set was created by a unique artist, in their own fun style! There are valentines for your kids to gift to friends, plus plenty of grown-up options for you to gift to your partner, friends, neighbors, family members, the Amazon delivery man, anyone!

After you download the files you like, print however many you need to send them out to family and friends. You can save time and have your local print shop print and cut them. Or even if you end up waiting to the last minute to print them, you can use your home printer too!

Some of these new printable valentines cards allow you to attach little gifts as part of the card, like these punny options from Artist Amanda Jane Jones. Some take some minor assembly for the full (and adorable) effect, like these from Michele Brummer Everett. However, if you don’t want to add any other steps to the assembly, there are plenty of options that you can simply print, cut, fold, and send!

These printable valentines are so cute and so fun! Browse through our entire collection and download as many designs as your heart desires.

Find the new printable valentines here.

Printable Valentines by Artists We Love

By Jacqueline Colley

Jacqueline is an illustrator and Pattern Designer based in East London with a love of colour, pattern and optimistic designs! Her Valentine collection is bright, creative, and oh so whimsical! It includes this Love Token Card, Signed Sealed Delivered Stamp Card, Perfect Match Card, and the Love Birds Card. See them all here!

Click here to see more of Jacqueline’s work in our Print Shop here, and on her website here.

By Jéssyka Gomes

Jéssyka is an illustrator and designer who is inspired by daily life, children’s books, embroidery and all the little things that makes her day happier. Each of her 3 valentines are perfect for brightening up anyone’s day! Download her valentine set here.

You can see more of Jéssyka’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book, as well as here.

By Amanda Jane Jones

Amanda is a Freelance Graphic Designer, Mama, Author and Illustrator. Her children’s book Yum Yummy Yuck is one of Jasper’s favorite! In fact, we carry prints inspired by her book in our Print Shop here.

Her valentines are as clever as every, and were created to add a small gift! Attach treats like a stick of gum, a shiny new pencil, and more. Download the Valentine Card Giftables here, and the Valentine Button and Shirt Cards here.

Click here to see more of Amanda’s artwork, and follow her here!

By Danielle Kroll

Danelle is an artist, living in Upstate New York, who makes hand painted illustrations, ceramics and textile designs. Her Love Potion Valentine is just the thing for putting your special someone under your spell this February 14th.

You can find more of Danielle’s work in our Print Shop here, and on her website here.

By Normandie Luscher

Normandie Luscher is a freelance illustrator and adjunct professor at MICA. Her valentines are created to wrap around a little gift to complete the pun! Keep the spark alive with these matchbox valentines. Or try these Valentine Candle Wraps, or these Chocolate Wraps! You cannot go wrong with chocolate for Valentine’s Day.

You can find more of Normandie’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book and on her website here.

By Julie Marabelle

Julie Marabelle is a French artist and founder of Famille Summerbelle where she designs illustrated products for the home since 2008. We are obsessed with her papercutting work, and actually carry several floral prints of hers in our Print Shop here!

After social distancing for so long, the people we share our homes with are more special than ever. Julie’s valentines were made to tell them that! Download her My Home is Your Home card here. For a complete gift that is great for family and neighbors, this version folds into a box shaped like a house! Julie also created two other valentine card designs for you to choose from here and here.

See more of Julie Marabelle’s work here in the Lars Print Shop and here.

By Hilary Onyon

Hilary Onyon is a third generation female artist who gathers much inspiration from the strong creative women she came from. Her Valentine collection includes this classic Cupid Valentines in pink and blue, the Hey You card, and Kiss Me card.

You can find more of Hilary’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book and here.

By Jessica Whittaker

Jess Whittaker is an Illustrator and Surface Pattern Designer. She helps fight stigmas around Mental Illness through her work. And, bonus points, she used to be a part of the Lars team!

Jess’s Valentine collection is packed full of puns, just the way we like it. Check out her Historical Figures valentine collection here, and her Zoo collection here.

You can find an art print by Jess in our Print Shop here, and more of her work here.

By Rosie Harbottle

Rosie Harbottle is a UK based illustrator with a passion for travel and culture that’s clearly expressed through her art.

If you and your significant other survived quarantine together, it must be the real deal! Acknowledge how strong your relationship is by gifting one of Rosie’s cards to your “lockdown lover.” Download her collection here.

See more of Rosie’s work here in our Print Shop, and here.

By Michele Brummer Everett

Michéle is an illustrator and designer from South Africa who now lives in the United States. Her Valentine collection is bright, fun, and interactive! See the Beet Valentine Puns here, 3D “UnFROGettable” Valentines here, “You’re EGGstra Special” Valentines here, and even some foldable Heart Boxes here.

See more of Michelle’s Work in our Print Shop here, and on her website here.

By Jessie Kanelos Weiner

Jessie Kanelos Weiner is a Franco-American illustrator and author of “Edible Paradise: A Coloring Book of Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables” and the “In Stride” walking guidebooks. We have long been inspired by her work, and actually offer some free cake toppers inspired by her work here in our shop!

Jessie’s valentine collection includes these Cake Toppers and her Eiffel Tower Valentine perfect for adding a shiny new hair accessory to. Plus download and cut out these hearts and turn your face mask into a work of art, and spread love not germs.

You can find more of Jessie’s work in our Print Shop here, as well as on her website here.

By Emily Isabella

Emily Isabella lives in the Hudson Valley and is endlessly inspired by small moments of everyday life. Her valentine collection is interactive, with clever tear-off elements! Give half to you best friend, or tear off the petals to find out does he love you? Does he love you not? (Hint: he loves you.) You can also send this printable postcard she created.

See more of Emily’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book and on her website here.

By Angie Stalker

Angie Stalker is an artist, illustrator and designer who invents playful, bright, and artful objects that send waves of optimism and confidence into every day. She really went all out for this Valentine’s Day collection for you. You can find her work in the form of Valentine cards (here and here), paper vase cards, large paper vases, IOU valentine coupons, and even an art poster in our shop now! Shop Angie’s full Valentine collection here.

You can find more of Angie’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book and on her website here.

By Michelle Christensen of My Little Belleville

Michelle is the international illustrator and designer behind the brand My Little Belleville. You can see her work on multiple projects throughout our archives!

Her Valentine collection is pink and red with just the right nod to Paris, the City of Love. Everything we think a Valentine should be! Download her cards here and here.

You can see more of Michelle’s work in our Print Shop here, and on her website here.

By Josefina Schargorodsky

Josefina Schargorodsky is a designer and illustrator from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her work is inspired by romantic nostalgia and the beauty of small things. Her new Postage Stamp Cards will brighten up this month, rain or shine. Send them over snail mail to an old friend!

See more of Josefina’s work in our Picture Hope Coloring Book and here.

More Printable Valentines

Click here to see all of the new valentines in our Valentine’s Day Shop! There is somehow even more to see, like these XOXO Glasses, new giftable hair accessories, and more. Seriously, the goods just keep coming!!!

DIY Twisted Candles for a Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner

Brittany

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January 26, 2021

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We made our candles in red and pink to add them to our Valentine’s day decorations. They would be perfect to display on the mantle, dining table, bookshelf, bathroom, anywhere, really! They would also be perfect to light on your Valentine’s day dinner at home. These candles are functional, beautiful, and customizable. No wonder we love them!

DIY Twisted Candles

Supplies:

Candles

Ziplock bag

Rolling Pin

Instructions:

(based on 12 inch tall candles)

Fill a bowl with warm enough water to cover candles

2. Soak candles in warm water for 15-20 min, or until they are flexible

3. Working with one candle at a time – transfer a candle to a ziplock bag

3. Using your rolling pin, roll the center of the candle flat until it is a 1/2″ wide. Make sure to leave 2″ at the top of the candle that is unrolled, as well as 2″ from the bottom.

Tip: If at any point the candle is becoming too firm to roll out, let it sit in the warm water longer and then start rolling again.

5. Once you have flattened out the center of your candle, slowly twist it until you have created the look you want!

Embrace the trend and flaunt your modern flair!

Don’t forget to add some Doily Honeycomb Decorations and Valentines Heart Pom-Poms to your Valentine’s day decorations this year!

DIY Valentine Gift Box for Galentine’s Day

Brittany

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January 25, 2021

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DIY Valentine Gift Box for Galentine’s Day

If you loved our Valentine Tassel Heart Favor Box, you’ll also love this DIY Valentine Gift Box that is just as endearing. A custom Valentine’s day gift box is a sure way to elevate a simple Valentine’s day gram.

And these ones are punny of course! Include one of these printable cards to tell your valentine, gal pals, or any loved one that you care. Leave one on your neighbor’s doorstep, mail some to your friends, or make a few with your children to share with their friends. They definitely work for anyone, but I am especially excited to use mine for Galentine’s Day.

Gather all the pink and red craft supplies you can, and make them together at your Galentine’s Day party! Because isn’t that how that saying goes? “Friends who craft together stay together”… right?

The printable card phrases include:

“Love your Face” and “You bring a smile to my face!”

How To Make Your DIY Valentine Gift Box

Supplies:

Cardstock in shades of red and pink
Template
Craft cutting machine with a fine blade and scoring wheel
OR craft knife (and cutting mat)
Scissors
Glue
Paint brush (the foam ones are perfect!)
Misc. pink and red craft supplies – pom-poms, jewels, glitter glue
Printer

Instructions:

Download the template (either for cutting machine or to cut by hand)
If by hand, use a self-healing mat and your craft blade and scissors to cut the pieces out by hand
If using a craft cutting machine, upload the SVG files. You’ll need a fine blade and scoring wheel to make the incisions and score lines.
There are three pieces to the box–the top face, the top box, the bottom box. To make the top of the box, fold down your scored lines carefully.
Apply glue to the tabs with a paintbrush (will make it smoother when it dries). Our glue dried rather fast so we did a few tabs at a time and then pressed them down individually.
Repeat to the bottom of the box.
Once your round box shape is complete, add some bling! We used pom-poms, jewels, and glitter glue to customize ours.
Print off the Valentine cards to insert into your gift box along with some treats!

That’s it! Send a box or deliver them yourself, and make it a tradition so your friends can look forward to them each year when Galentine’s Day rolls around. Don’t forget to take a picture and use the hashtag #LarsLovesLove to show us what you made!

More Projects to Create Together for Galentine’s Day

Hint Hint Hubby: Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas 2021

Brittany

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January 21, 2021

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It’s that time of the month, I mean, year! Time to celebrate your love, of course! I gather you are here for some insight and guidance. 2020 was rough to say the least, and last year’s Valentine’s Day happened before all the mayhem. The lady in your life has dealt with her share of trials this past year and needs some extra pampering. Let’s shower her with some extra love and gifts she will appreciate.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

We categorized our Valentine’s Day gift ideas to help you narrow down your search. From practical to romantic, from unexpected to comforting, we have you covered! Explore our curated list below, and check out the Lars Valentine Shop for more ideas!

Lars Valentine Shop

This is just the beginning of the Valentine’s Day Gifts we carry in our Shop. Click here to see more accessories, cards, decor, and more.

Romantic Gifts

Spoil her with a purse she didn’t know she needed, earrings that are on trend, candles that are on her wishlist, linen sheets that have over 2000 positive reviews, slippers and bubble bath soap that will make her feel like a queen. Indulge her hidden wishes and top it off with chocolate straight out of a Wes Anderson film. These are the gifts that are sure to win you a personal Husband-of-the-Year award.

Useful Gifts

So much time has been spent indoors and naturally there have been things around the home, things that are used every day, that are in need or are in desperate need of sprucing up. She might need a beautiful brass wick candle trimmer because it’s difficult to cut wicks that are towards the bottom half of the container. Speaking of candles, lighting candles on a modern Moroccan candlestick or these glass candlesticks will instantly upgrade dining at home. (And don’t worry, both of those candlesticks are great options even if your significant other is a picky decorator.) For everyday use, these pink blue light glasses, felt coasters, watering cans, and colorful slides will brighten ordinary tasks. There’s an upgrade you can find for almost everything she uses, and that is a gift that will tell you you notice all her hard work.

Unexpected Gifts

These gifts may not have crossed your mind but will be a pleasant surprise. Consider a charming chess set made of plexiglass board and wooden game pieces because she watched A Queen’s Gambit and is ready to learn or renew her love for the game. If she is not into chess but still loves boardgames and puzzles, this Scrabble Deluxe Edition or any of the puzzle sets are sure to provide some fun times together. If you want to pick out clothing or accessories and are unsure of her taste, you can stay safe with a nice pajama set and/or a chic headband. There are plenty more unexpected Valentine’s day gift ideas she will love!

Homey Gifts

Does your lady love decorating and rearranging the home? Gift her this functional and display worthy handblown glass cloche with matches. Or an oil diffuser that serves as a beautiful flower arrangement. If she’s redecorating for spring, a pop of yellow with this throw and striped pillow will definitely brighten things up.

Wrap it Up

Don’t forget the gift wrap! Check out all of our exclusive wrapping paper designs here, including the fun bold shapes above + our Cherry Wrapping Paper and Chocolate Truffles Wrapping Paper made specifically for Valentine’s Day!

Find more ideas from last year’s post or make a larger version of our Valentine Fruit Piñata and fill it with gifts you’ve found above. We also think face masks, cozy loungewear for working from home, blue light glasses, or some new office decor would make amazing gifts. Click any of those links to see our favorite options available! Look forward to more Valentine’s Day gift ideas in the coming week.

DIY Doily Honeycomb Decorations

Brittany

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January 20, 2021

4

DIY Paper Doily Honeycomb Decorations

You might recall that we made these custom Honeycomb Christmas decorations from templates that we designed, but we wanted it to be a bit easier. Turns out, doilies are great because the shape is created for you and all you have to do is cut them down the middle and assemble. Plus, the doilies create that beautiful lace effect.

The More You Know

I had to do a bit of digging to find out more about what a doily is and why we have them. Turns out, the term doily came from the last name “Doily”, a London firm of linen merchants who made fringed napkins in the 1700’s. Then, from 1711, a doily was a small ornamental napkin used at dessert. THEN, they were placed on the backs of chairs to protect them from the oil that men used on their hair. Nowadays, some people use them to protect surfaces of tables from decorative objects.

Ok, so now that we know the history of doilies, let’s get to learning how to make these honeycomb decorations. I’m thinking they would be lovely to give as a Valentine or adorn a branch tree (you know we love a decorative tree!) or taking the place of a wreath.

Here’s how to make it!

DIY Honeycomb Valentine ornament

Materials:

See above for where to get the doilies
Glue gun
Scissors or paper cutter

Instructions:

Measure a line down the middle of the doily to create an axis of symmetry
Cut doilies in half. If your doilies are heart-shaped and have different colors on each side (ours are white on the back) keep the right-sided halves separated from the left-sided ones. You will alternate gluing left and right sides of the heart.
Glue a line down the middle of one half-doily (starting at the axis and moving to the edge.
Place another doily on top. For heart-shaped doilies or ones with different colors on each side, glue the same colors together. The contrasting color/blank side will now be facing up.
Glue two lines down the sides of the doily on the top of the stack.
Place another doily on top, again gluing the same colors together.
Carefully separate the layers where glue may have escaped to lower layers through the holes in the doily.
Repeat steps 4-8 until the stack is tall enough to open up and wrap back around so that the first and last layers meet. This will be about 50 layers or 25 whole doilies.
While pressing down the layers of doilies, glue a line down the spine of the stack and even it out with the warm tip of the glue gun. Make sure that all the layers are adhered together with this glue.
Glue a loop of ribbon to the top of the spine.
Fan open the ornament, carefully separating any layers that may still be stuck together, and glue the first and last layers together. You’re finished!

How to make a circle doily honeycomb decoration

And the tutorial is a bit different if you’re doing a heart. Here’s how to make it:

Would love to see how you put them to use. What will you do with them? Tag us when you make yours with #LarsLovesLove #LarsMakes.

Like these? You’ll also love these:

Honeycomb Ornaments
Lunch sack honeycomb decorations
Printable honeycomb cards

DIY Valentine Fruit Piñatas

Brittany

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January 14, 2021

2

DIY Valentine Piñatas in Fun Fruit Shapes

I’m thinking that these guys would be great to leave at a door for a friend or even send in the mail. And then match up the fruit with candies of the same flavor–can you imagine?! So cute! You can choose from an orange (orange you glad we’re friends?), peach “you’re a peach!”, a strawberry “you’re berry special”, a pear “you’re pearfect”, and a honeydew melon “HoneyDEW you want me to be your Valentine?”.

+ Printable Fruit Sticker Valentines

Complete your DIY Valentine Fruit Piñatas with these printable fruit stickers! Just download the file here and print them out on sticker paper. It’s just the touch your special someone will love.

How to Make Your Own DIY Valentine Fruit Piñatas

Supplies:

Instructions:

Use our templates to trace the shape of the fruit onto cardboard. You’ll need two shapes per cardboard.
Cut 1.5″ strips going against the grain of the cardboard for the sides of the fruit shapes. Glue or tape them onto the fruit shape.
Cut 3/4″ fringe of crepe paper or tissue paper.
Apply the fringe to the bottom of the fruit and then work your way up to the top of the fruit.
STEM: Add on a stem by rolling a piece of tissue or paper around in a circle. Glue in place.
LEAF: Cut a leaf out of paper or crepe paper and glue in place.
Top it all off with one of our adorable fruit stickers (you can find them here).

Other DIY Valentines

A Valentine with a handmade touch is the best way to show your crush, your gal pals, or your loved ones you really care. Check out our Valentine’s Day archives for more DIY ideas for the crafty Secret Admirer, or click any of the photos below.

DIY House Valentine Box stickers

Brittany

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January 13, 2021

0

DIY Valentine Box House with Printable Stickers

As a working mother to a toddler and now newborn, heaven help me, I totally understand the need to be crafty, but also the lack of time. These stickers are meant to make it a no brainer to get creative. And with the amount of Amazon boxes we are all most likely getting right now it’s a simple way to put those boxes to use.

How to make a Valentine Box House

Here’s how to make a simple box come to life with the addition of adorable Valentine’s Box stickers.

Materials:

Printable PDF from our shop
Shoe box or empty box
wrapping papers if desired (we love using the red and white options over here!)
sticker paper OR print off on normal paper and glue onto the box.

Instructions

(Optional) Wrap your box in a red/white/pink wrapping paper or leave it blank! Make sure to leave a flap in the back to retrieve the Valentines.
Add door, windows and accessory stickers onto the box.
(Optional) Add on a roof with construction paper or cardstock.
Cut a slit into the top of the box to drop the Valentines.

EASY, right?!

And if you’re really feeling the desire to craft, get out all your craft supplies and let the kids decorate it with ribbons or sequins or whatever you have around the house.

Here are some of the cutie pie sticker options to choose from. There’s four pages of fun stickers!

Can’t wait to see how you make your Valentine boxes. Show us what you’re making with the hash tag #LarsLovesLove.

If you like this project, you might also like the following:

18 Beautiful Valentine’s Day craft projects
Printable Friendship Bracelet Valentines
Heart Friendship Bracelets

And check out our Shop for more easy Valentine giftables, printables, and projects!

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