THANK GOD it's over! Here's what I did. . . (complete w/ photos)

[untoherselfalone_2]

Stunning! I love that pendant more than anything though. My grandfather passed away this year and I wish IO would have made gifts for my mom with his image. maybe for her birthday. thanks for sharing. I am trilled to know that this exists.

[paulacham]

Wow!  They're all so wonderful.  I especially like the pendant with the birds on it. 

[FIFI]

I was rather proud of myself this year - I crocheted scarves for some, made ornaments and stockings. Now I feel rather inferior  - your work is superb!!! A new idea for next year (need to start soon)
FiFi

[naelany]

By the way, how on earth did you get the photo ornaments done yourself?

[hercuteness]

FIFI - i was supposed to start painting in november and didn't get started until december 15th!  no good reason to wait!

naelany - i scanned old photos into my computer, fidgeted with them in photoshop a little bit, then printed them on LaserTran paper.  i let the paper dry for thirty minutes, cut out my images, and soaked them in warm water for a minute or so. . . .the image slides off of the paper backing and looks a bit like floppy film.. . .

i put the pictures onto ornaments that i purchased from Maryland China.  i carefully pushed out any air bubbles with my fingers and let the ornaments dry. 

when they were completely dry i sprayed them with a glossy finish to seal them against scratches.

i did the same thing for the pendant, adding the gold paint around the picture because the paper wasn't cut terribly straight!

the LaserTran paper scratches very easily when put on smooth surfaces. . . so i  definitely recommend sealing it with something.

[naelany]

wow! I am more then impressed now I know how you did it lol. I'd never heard of that paper before, where can you get it?

[hercuteness]

i couldn't find it at any art stores in town. . .i ended up ordering it online:


http://www.lazertran.com/products/lazertran_products_original.htm

[~Tracey~]

babe in arms typing but just wanted to say GORGEOUS!!! I love the family momentos especially.

[naelany]

thanks for the link, hercuteness

[purpleone]

Truly lbeautiful gifts. I may have to try the Lazertran, it looks like one of those products that whilst not a traditional craft, can be used to produce lovely keepsakes.