Our homes and gardens are an expression of who we are.  It is our sanctuary from all the stress of the world. It is our one place to go to shut out the distractions of every day life.  There is nothing like sitting outside on a nice spring morning, listening to the birds sing, and interacting with nature. A garden is just a small bit of heaven.  It brings us peace, joy, and harmony.  You don’t have to do anything.  Just sit and “be.”

A great way to accentuate your garden is with garden crafts or garden art. Integrating different garden crafts into your garden will bring it and your personality to life.

What once was a hobby has now become my business.  I used to paint crafts all the time. I loved it. But something was missing. I finally decided into looking for ways to make my own crafts. I discovered “molds.”  It has been a learning process by trial and error. I bought many molds that just didn’t work out. I don’t know the exact day I discovered making stepping stones but I just know that it felt right. Other types of molds followed: gnomes, plaques, animals, and spiritual ones. This has been a long process about 3 years now.  Ebay became my best friend. I am always looking. Sometimes I just have to stop myself.

I learned how to mix concrete and cement: how to make it stronger, how to “cure” it.  I learned what worked and what didn’t work. I hand-mix each item and hand- pour it into a mold. I hope to buy a mixer soon.  There was a lot to learn and thank goodness for the internet. It was my college.

After pouring, curing, and waterproofing my craft, next comes the painting. I love this part the most. I put inspirational music on and I just sit and paint for hours. I have to be careful because I can “touch-up” for hours as well, trying for perfection. When an item is done, I apply a clear acrylic glaze finish that gives the product a glossy shine. I love that look. After each one is completed, I just feel that it is my “baby” and I want it to go to a good home. I make each item with love and perfection in mind. Since I’m not perfect you can at least count on the love. Each one is unique in its own way. No two concrete pours are alike and the colors adhere differently each time.   Each one has its own distinctive color and personality.

So you too can enhance your garden with garden art that will bring it that much more to life: a small frog peeking out from the marigolds or a turtle lumbering between the daffodils and tulips. A decorative stepping stone that reflects an interest such as a lighthouse and sailboat on the water or Welcome stone to greet your guests.  Butterflies are attracted to your flowers and you can Give Thanks with a butterfly stepping stone.  Even a silly gnome can bring a smile to your face when you encounter an impish grin as you pass by.  There are many ways to put you into your garden or yard and to accentuate the flowers, walkway, patio, or pool area.

If you are interested in taking a peek at what is available, I can be found at jegardencrafts.etsy.com or my facebook page – Jodiellen Garden Crafts.

Gardens are about joy so I leave you with this quote:

In my garden there is a large place for sentiment.  My garden of flowers is also my garden of thoughts and dreams.  The thoughts grow as freely as the flowers, and the dreams are as beautiful.  ~Abram L. Urban

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