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Author: Monique Lula

  • How to create a Grinch-themed charcuterie board

    If you’re looking to bring a little mischief and a whole lot of holiday cheer to your Christmas table, this Grinch Charcuterie Board is the perfect show-stopping centerpiece.

    Here is everything you need:

    Get Charcuterie Supplies on Amazon #ad

    Inspired by everyone’s favorite green grump, this playful board blends festive creativity with delicious flavors—bright fruits, creamy cheeses, savory meats, and colorful accents all arranged to form a whimsical Grinch face your guests will adore.

    This board is guaranteed to steal the spotlight (and maybe a few hearts along the way). Get ready to wow your guests with a charcuterie board that’s equal parts tasty and delightfully naughty!

    GRINCH CHARCUTERIE BOARD RECIPE & DIRECTIONS 🎄

    WHAT YOU NEED

    For the Grinch Face (centerpiece):

    • 1 large round platter or wooden board on Amazon #ad
    • Green apple slices or green-dyed cheese slices (Havarti or provolone works great)
    • Thin slices of salami or prosciutto (for the mouth shading)
    • 2 round slices of white cheese (provolone or mozzarella) for the eyes
    • 2 black olives (cut in half) or black grapes for pupils
    • A small piece of green grape, kiwi, or green cheese for the nose
    • Fresh rosemary or dill sprigs for eyebrows
    • A small dab of cream cheese to help pieces stick if needed

    For the Surrounding Snacks:

    Feel free to mix and match, but this is what matches the picture:

    • White cheddar cubes
    • Sliced cheese (mild cheddar, gouda, or Colby Jack)
    • Green grapes
    • Red grapes
    • Olives (green, pitted)
    • Dried cranberries
    • Almonds
    • Pistachios
    • Crackers (round, seeded, multigrain)
    • Small bowl of feta or soft cheese
    • Peppermint candy canes (optional holiday touch)
    • Cured meat flowers (salami roses)

    🧩 HOW TO ASSEMBLE THE GRINCH FACE

    1. Create the Base Shape

    Use your green cheese or green apple slices to shape:

    • The Grinch’s main head oval
    • His cheek circles
    • Chin and forehead

    Place the pieces tightly so it looks like one smooth shape.


    2. Build the Eyes

    • Cut two circles of white cheese.
    • Place slightly tilted to give that classic Grinch “mischievous look.”
    • Add a half olive or black berry to each eye.
    • You can use a tiny bit of cream cheese to secure the pupils.

    3. Add the Nose

    Use a small chunk of a green grape, kiwi, or green cheese chunk
    Shape it into a round-ish oval and place it centered between the eyes.


    4. Add the Mouth

    • Create the Grinch’s smirk using salami or prosciutto slices.
    • Lay the meat under the lower cheese pieces so it peeks out like a grin.
    • You can adjust the curve until it looks right!

    5. Add Eyebrows

    • Use fresh dill, rosemary, or small pine-like herbs to mimic the wild Grinch eyebrows.
    • Arrange the herbs thick and arched for expression.

    🍇 FILLING THE BOARD AROUND THE GRINCH

    Place items in full groups for a clean, abundant look:

    Left side:

    • Red grapes
    • Sliced cheese stacks
    • Crackers

    Right side:

    • Green grapes
    • Cheese cubes
    • Crackers

    Top area:

    • Small wooden bowls of:
      • Green olives
      • Dried cranberries
    • Candy canes tucked beside the bowls
    • A few salami roses or folded meats

    Bottom area:

    • A pile of nuts (almonds, pistachios)
    • A small bowl of feta or soft cheese

    Fill all empty gaps with nuts or grapes to make the board look full and festive.


    🎨 TIPS FOR A PERFECT GRINCH LOOK

    • For bright green color:
      Use green-tinted Havarti or color mild cheese using a very light brush of water + food coloring gel.
    • For neat edges:
      Cut cheese using a sharp knife or an oval cookie cutter.
    • For a glossy finish:
      Lightly brush apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
    • Keep cold until serving so everything stays firm and shaped.

  • Everything You Need To Start Cardboard Cutting

    Do you have more cardboard than you know what to do with?

    A new wave of DIY creativity is taking over art rooms, maker spaces, and even social media—cardboard fashion. More people than ever, from kids to adults, are discovering just how fun, affordable, and surprisingly stylish cardboard projects can be.

    Get Cardboard cutting supplies on Amazon #ad

    With nothing more than sturdy cardboard, a good cardboard cutter, and a little imagination, creators are designing everything from jaw-dropping costumes to wearable shoes, dresses, accessories, props, and even home décor pieces.

    It’s a trend fueled by resourcefulness, sustainability, and the joy of turning everyday materials into eye-catching masterpieces.

    Cardboard cutters made for both kids and adults are a big part of the movement. They provide safe, easy ways to slice cardboard into clean shapes—whether you’re crafting armor plates, sculpting wings, or building geometric high heels for a costume.

    Social media creators are showing off full outfits made nearly entirely from cardboard: sculpted dresses sealed with paint and gloss, cosplay helmets with incredible detailing, and even runway-style designs layered and curved like high-fashion pieces. Kids are having just as much fun, building imaginative outfits for school events, Halloween, or just weekend play. The best part? Cardboard is cheap, recyclable, and widely available, making this trend accessible to almost anyone.


    What You Need to Get Started

    You don’t need much to start creating amazing cardboard wearables. Here are some essentials:

    • Cardboard Cutters on Amazon #ad
      Safe-edge cutters for kids allow little makers to participate without risk, while adult versions offer precision for more advanced builds.
    • Cardboard Sheets or Boxes on Amazon #ad
      You can start with cardboard around the house, and you can order any thickness sheets you need too. The thicker the cardboard, the sturdier your costumes, dresses, and props will be.
    • Cutting Mat on Amazon #ad
      Helps protect your surfaces and keeps lines clean.
    • Cardboard fasteners on Amazon #ad
      Use these little plastic fasteners to attach pieces of cut cardboard shapes together and keep them together.
    • Hot Glue Gun & Sticks on Amazon #ad
      Perfect for assembling layers, securing straps, and attaching details.
    • Acrylic Paint on Amazon #ad
      The right colors can turn cardboard into a real looking item.
    • Cardboard Scissors on Amazon #ad
      Useful for finer details and trimming edges.
    • Velcro strips on Amazon #ad
      Great for turning cardboard pieces into wearable clothing or accessories.

    What You Can Make

    The possibilities are endless—seriously. Some of the most popular cardboard creations include:

    • Dresses & Costumes:
      From fairytale gowns and superhero suits to geometric avant-garde runway looks.
    • Shoes & Accessories:
      Boots, heels, backpacks, masks, belts, and hats.
    • Cosplay Props:
      Swords, wings, armor, shields, and helmets.
    • Kids’ Play Costumes:
      Princess crowns, robot suits, space helmets, and animal masks.
    • Home Décor & Art:
      Wall sculptures, lamps, organizers, and decorative displays.
    • Holiday Costumes:
      Cardboard Christmas dresses, bat wings for Halloween, pumpkin armor—anything you dream up.

    Cardboard fashion blends imagination with sustainability, giving new life to materials that might otherwise be thrown away. Whether you’re crafting with kids, building a standout costume for a party, or challenging yourself to make high-fashion art with simple materials, cardboard cutters open up a world of possibility. It’s a creative trend that proves you don’t need expensive supplies—just vision, enthusiasm, and a good cutter to get started.

  • Octopus Blanket

    Snuggling up with a good book feels even more magical when you’re wrapped in your favorite octopus-themed blanket. There’s something comforting about those soft, curling tentacles draped around you like a warm embrace, creating your own little underwater hideaway.

    Find an Octopus Blanket on Amazon #ad

    As you flip each page, the world grows quieter, cozier, and a bit more whimsical—like you’ve drifted off into a gentle ocean current where nothing exists except your story and your soft, glowing sea creature cocoon.

    This is my concept design glowing octopus blanket, it looks so cool I wanted to share it on the internet! Not for sale.

    It’s the perfect kind of relaxation time—the kind where the hours melt away, the room feels softer, and your heartbeat settles into a slow, peaceful rhythm. Your octopus blanket keeps you warm while your book keeps you inspired, and together they create the sweetest escape from the outside world. Whether it’s morning light or late-night calm, that blend of comfort, imagination, and sea-themed snuggles is pure bliss.

  • Glowing Dragon Dress

    Wearing a glowing dragon dress feels like stepping straight into a mythical storybook. These dresses shimmer with scales, patterns, or embroidery inspired by legendary dragons, and when the lights dim, they come alive with an ethereal glow.

    Find Light-up Glowing Dresses on Amazon #ad

    Whether the glow comes from luminous fabric, hand-painted glow pigments, or integrated LED accents, the effect is absolutely magical. The dress transforms the wearer into a powerful, enchanting figure—part fantasy heroine, part glowing guardian of the night. Every movement makes the light dance across the design like flickering embers or soft dragon fire.

    These glowing dragon dresses are perfect for festivals, costume events, cosplay, night parties, and anyone who loves bold, mystical fashion. They blend artistry with imagination, celebrating strength, beauty, and the spirit of the dragon. From soft pastel glow scales to fierce neon flames, each dress has its own personality. Wearing one feels empowering—like wrapping yourself in ancient magic. It’s not just a dress; it’s an experience, a statement, and a moment of glowing fantasy brought to life.

  • Why Crocheting Feels Like Magic

    Crocheting is a beautifully meditative craft that transforms simple strands of yarn into meaningful, handmade creations. With just a hook, some yarn, and a little imagination, you can bring blankets, scarves, toys, pillows, clothing, and decorations to life.

    Get Crochet Supplies on Amazon #ad

    Every stitch feels like a tiny moment of calm—looping, pulling, and watching the pattern slowly grow beneath your hands. It’s a craft that encourages you to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the rhythm of making something from nothing.

    One of the things crocheters love most is how personal each project becomes. Even when following the same pattern, no two pieces are ever exactly alike. The colors you choose, the yarn textures you love, the tightness or looseness of your stitches—all of it adds your unique personality to the final piece. Crocheting allows endless customization: from bold colors to soft neutrals, simple stitches to intricate lace, playful amigurumi to oversized blankets. Every project is an opportunity to experiment, learn, and express yourself.

    Crocheting also connects us to a long tradition of makers and artists. Many people learn from a parent or grandparent, passing down knowledge through generations. Others discover it later in life and fall in love with the peaceful, creative escape it provides. Crocheting invites community—whether through pattern sharing, handmade gifts, local craft groups, or online maker spaces. At its heart, crochet is more than a hobby; it’s a way to share warmth, creativity, comfort, and joy—one stitch at a time.

  • Glow in the dark Acrylic Nails

    Glow-in-the-dark acrylic nails and nail polishes have become one of the most exciting trends in beauty, offering a mix of creativity, self-expression, and pure nighttime magic. These luminous nails absorb light during the day and glow brilliantly in the dark, creating a look that shifts from bold to enchanting depending on the lighting.

    Find glow in the dark acrylic nails on Amazon #ad

    Whether you love neon brights, soft pastels, or mysterious gothic tones, glow nails add a playful pop of light to your style.

    They’re perfect for concerts, nights out, festivals, Halloween events, clubbing, or just adding a little sparkle to everyday life.


    How Glow Acrylic Nails Work

    Glow-in-the-dark acrylic nails are created using special luminous powders mixed into acrylic or gel. These powders charge under natural sunlight or indoor lighting and then emit a soft, colorful glow when the lights go down. Nail artists can create solid glowing sets, ombré effects, glowing French tips, or detailed nail art that lights up like little works of art. Some acrylic powders glow one color, while others shift to multiple hues depending on the lighting or how much they’ve been charged. The result is a set of nails that feel alive with color—bright in the day, magical at night.


    Glow Nail Polish: Easy, Fun, and Versatile

    I began making my own glow nail polish many years ago but now prefer to just buy it online now.

    For anyone wanting glow magic without a full acrylic set, glow-in-the-dark nail polish is an easy and fun option. These polishes can be worn alone, layered over your favorite color, or used to highlight designs like stars, hearts, lightning bolts, and moon phases. They recharge quickly under UV lamps, sunlight, or even bright indoor lighting. At night they glow softly, making your nails look like little fireflies. Glow polish is great for kids, adults, and anyone who loves playful, creative beauty with a twist.

    Get Glow Nail Polish on Amazon #ad


    Perfect for Every Style—Cute, Bold, or Gothic

    Glow-in-the-dark nails can fit any aesthetic. Neon green, aqua, and hot pink are perfect for electric rave vibes. Soft glows like lavender and mint feel dreamy and fairy-like. And bold colors like deep purple or luminous green are amazing for gothic nails, witchy, or Halloween-inspired looks. No matter your style, glow nails give you endless ways to express yourself and bring a little extra light to your look—literally.

  • Chicken Laying Egg Lamp

    If you love quirky decor, farmhouse charm, or anything that celebrates the sillier side of country living, this whimsical White Chicken Egg Lamp is sure to steal your heart.

    Find a Chicken Laying Egg Lamp on Amazon #ad

    Designed to look like a white hen proudly laying an egg, the lamp features a perfectly placed light bulb that acts as the “egg,” creating a playful and imaginative glow. It’s the kind of decor piece that makes everyone smile the moment they see it—delightfully unexpected, clever, and absolutely irresistible for chicken lovers.

    Crafted with adorable detail, the chicken lamp has a soft white finish that fits beautifully into farmhouse-style kitchens, cozy living rooms, rustic cabins, and even modern homes that want a touch of humor. The egg-shaped bulb glows warmly, giving the lamp a cozy farmhouse vibe while keeping the joke front and center. It’s both functional and funny—a rare combination that brings joy to any room.

    This lamp is a conversation starter in the best possible way. Guests can’t help but laugh, kids love its silly charm, and chicken enthusiasts instantly want one of their own. It’s the perfect accent for anyone who collects chicken decor, enjoys whimsical home accessories, or simply loves decorating with pieces that make a home feel happy and uniquely personal.

    Whether placed on a bedside table, a kitchen counter, or a farmhouse-style shelf, the White Chicken Egg Lamp adds humor, warmth, and a touch of barnyard magic to your space. It’s a light that glows—and a joke that never gets old.

  • Grinch inspired Gnome Ornaments with Glow Nose

    This Christmas season, I wanted to create something extra cozy, whimsical, and full of holiday magic—so I designed and hand-sewed my own Gnome Christmas Tree Ornaments, each one lovingly made from scratch in my New Orleans studio.

    I started by sketching and cutting the pattern myself, choosing soft fabrics that felt warm and festive. Every little detail, from the shape of the hat to the curve of the beard, was crafted by hand.

    Due to the handmade nature and the time it takes quantity is limited so may sell out!

    Get one of these Gnome ornaments here from my Glowies Store

    For the beards, I used a fun Grinch-green faux fur as a playful nod to one of my favorite Christmas characters. It gives the gnomes a silly, mischievous charm and instantly adds color and character to any tree. The hats are stitched by hand, stuffed just right, and topped with tiny details that make each gnome come alive. I’ve always loved creating holiday magic with fabric, thread, and imagination—and these ornaments feel like little storybook creatures ready to celebrate Christmas with you.

    The most special part, though, is the glow-in-the-dark nose. I sculpted the nose myself and added my signature Glowies touch, so when the lights go down, your gnome softly glows on the tree. It’s like a tiny bit of enchantment shining through the branches—magical for kids, adults, and anyone who loves that cozy Christmas charm. The glow adds warmth, whimsy, and that unique handcrafted Glowies sparkle I’m known for.

    Every ornament is made entirely by hand by me, Monique Lula, and each one carries hours of love, creativity, and holiday spirit. These little gnomes are more than decorations—they’re keepsakes, handmade treasures, and tiny companions for your Christmas tree. I hope they bring joy, magic, and a little glow to your holiday season.

  • The Castle Couch: A Concept Design With a Cozy Pet Den

    Imagine stepping into your living room and discovering a piece of furniture that feels like it came straight out of a storybook—a couch shaped like a miniature stone castle, complete with turrets, archways, and a magical garden theme.

    Find Pet Beds on Amazon #ad

    The Castle Couch Bed is a whimsical concept design that blends comfort, creativity, and functionality, offering a dreamy escape for adults, kids, and even pets. With its sculpted castle silhouette and enchanting flower accents, this piece turns any living room into a cozy fantasy retreat.

    More than a couch, more than a bed—this is a centerpiece that transforms the entire room into a magical castle garden. This is a concept design and not for sale.


    A Castle Couch Bed Designed for Storybook Living

    The concept begins with the silhouette of a fairytale castle. Think soft stone-texture upholstery, rounded towers at the corners, and a plush “courtyard” bed surface that invites you to relax like royalty. The backrest mimics castle battlements, while the armrests are styled like stone walls topped with soft cushions for comfort. It’s both imaginative and practical—perfect for themed homes, whimsical living rooms, or anyone who loves a touch of magic in their everyday life.

    This couch bed becomes a conversation piece the moment guests walk in. Whether you’re curling up with a book, watching movies, or taking an afternoon nap, the castle design adds charm and wonder to the experience.


    A Built-In Pet Den for Cats and Small Dogs

    One of the most enchanting features of this concept is the integrated pet den. At the base of the castle couch, there’s a small archway—like the entrance to a tiny castle gate—designed specifically for pets. Inside the arch is a cozy, cushioned nook perfect for cats, small dogs, or any little companion who loves to curl up near you.

    Get Pet Beds on Amazon #ad

    This hidden pet bed blends seamlessly into the design, creating a magical shared space for both humans and animals. Your pet becomes the guardian of the castle, resting in their own miniature royal chamber right beneath your seat.

    The pet den adds surprise, functionality, and joy, making this concept ideal for animal lovers and families.


    A Castle Garden Theme with Flowers and Fantasy Details

    The castle couch bed is enhanced with an enchanting garden theme. Picture soft fabric flowers climbing up the sides of the castle, embroidered vines weaving through the cushion seams, and pastel or jewel-tone floral accents scattered throughout.

    Optional design elements could include:

    • Faux stone fabric for the castle walls
    • Soft embroidered flowers along the backrest
    • Castle turret pillows for added charm
    • Fairytale vines or ivy detailing
    • A moss-green throw blanket for a natural forest touch

    These decorative elements make the entire couch feel like it belongs in an enchanted garden or magical woodland cottage.


    Perfect for Themed Living Rooms, Kids’ Rooms, or Fantasy Lovers

    The Castle Couch Bed is a versatile concept that fits beautifully into several styles:

    🌿 Castle Garden Living Rooms

    Pair with fairy lights, potted plants, and soft woodland decor.

    🧚 Fantasy-Themed Homes

    Add in moon lamps, stained-glass windows, and whimsical furniture.

    🏰 Kids’ Bedrooms or Playrooms

    A fun, comfortable reading nook or nap area that sparks imagination.

    🐾 Pet-Friendly Homes

    The built-in pet den ensures your furry friend has a dedicated royal retreat.

    Whether your aesthetic is fairy-tale cozy, enchanted forest, cottagecore, or gothic kingdom, this castle couch bed immediately becomes the star of the room.


    Furniture as Art and Imagination

    While the Castle Couch Bed is a concept design, it shows what’s possible when creativity meets comfort. It reimagines furniture not just as something functional, but something expressive—something that tells a story. It invites people of all ages to embrace fantasy, playfulness, and beauty in their everyday spaces.

    For dreamers, pet lovers, and anyone who wants to bring a bit of magic into the home, this castle-themed couch bed concept is a perfect blend of style, function, and fairy-tale charm.

  • Unicorn Night Lights: Bringing Comfort and Sweet Dreams to Bedtime

    Unicorns have become one of the most beloved symbols of childhood, and for good reason—they represent imagination, kindness, adventure, and pure magic. It’s no surprise that unicorn night lights have quickly become a favorite addition to children’s bedrooms around the world. With their soft glow and enchanting designs, unicorn night lights help turn bedtime into a cozy, magical routine instead of a struggle.

    Find Unicorn Night Lights on Amazon #ad

    Whether you’re decorating a nursery, upgrading a toddler’s room, or gifting something special to a unicorn-loving kid, these night lights bring warmth, wonder, and comfort to any space.


    Why Kids Love Unicorn Night Lights

    Unicorn night lights create a calming environment that helps children relax at the end of the day. Many kids feel uneasy in complete darkness, and a gentle nighttime glow provides reassurance without being too bright or distracting. The magical unicorn theme adds an emotional layer—kids see their night light not just as a lamp, but as a little friend who watches over them while they sleep.

    The charm of unicorns naturally encourages creative thinking and storytelling. Kids often name their unicorn lamp, include it in their bedtime stories, or use it as part of imaginative play during the day. It becomes a comforting presence in the room both day and night.


    Features That Make Unicorn Night Lights Perfect for Children

    Unicorn night lights come with thoughtful, kid-friendly features that make them both magical and practical:

    • Soft, soothing glow that promotes relaxation
    • Color-changing LEDs that create a dreamy atmosphere
    • Cool-touch bulbs to keep little hands safe
    • Portable or rechargeable options for sleepovers or travel
    • Timer settings so the light turns off automatically
    • Durable, kid-safe materials like silicone or resin

    These features combine safety, functionality, and fun—perfect for growing kids and busy parents.


    Styles of Unicorn Night Lights

    There are many enchanting unicorn designs to fit any child’s personality or room theme:

    ✨ Classic Unicorn Lamps

    Shaped like a sweet, smiling unicorn with soft pastel colors—ideal for nurseries and toddler rooms.

    See Unicorn Lamps on Amazon #ad

    🌈 Color-Changing Unicorn Globes

    These lamps glow through the rainbow, giving the whole room a dreamy, magical atmosphere.

    💗 Plush or Silicone Unicorn Lights

    Soft, squishy, and huggable—perfect for little ones who like to hold their night light.

    🌙 Fancy or Decorative Unicorn Lamps

    More detailed pieces that double as room decor, suitable for older kids or whimsical bedrooms.

    🧚 Stained-Glass Unicorn Lamps

    Stained glass style unicorn lamps can be—perfect for inspiring fairy-tale style rooms and they just look cool!

    Get Unicorn Lamps on Amazon #ad

    No matter the style, each unicorn lamp brings gentle charm to the space.


    How Unicorn Night Lights Help with Bedtime Routines

    A unicorn night light can make the entire bedtime ritual smoother for parents and more enjoyable for children. Soft lighting encourages kids to unwind during storytime, and the consistent glow signals that it’s time to rest. For toddlers transitioning into their own room, a unicorn night light can make the space feel welcoming and safe.

    Many children also enjoy watching the colors change or the light slowly fade, creating a relaxing sensory experience that helps them drift off to sleep.


    Perfect Gift for Unicorn Lovers

    Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, holiday present, or a surprise treat, unicorn night lights make thoughtful, magical gifts. They add personality to a bedroom, help kids sleep peacefully, and spark joy every evening. For families decorating a child’s room, a unicorn night light is often the finishing touch that ties the whole theme together.


    A Little Light Makes a Big Difference

    Unicorn night lights for kids offer more than illumination—they bring comfort, joy, creativity, and a touch of enchantment to bedtime. With so many styles and features to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect unicorn night light that fits your child’s personality and helps transform nighttime into a magical experience.