Mini "Sweetie Pie" Favors

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbqWIFA5OTzlK5WhLIOjUhV08RkMtzOjJVBhMhtGBejd6SU8FlIkxvjcd2CHevs-vCx5aow5eMUrbgcjE7_N0dmI3BvsEU0EL5JT2QW8fugOEdFFN5qETFMo9aBcMD-mvZnJMcpn6OrI/s1600/IMG_0533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbqWIFA5OTzlK5WhLIOjUhV08RkMtzOjJVBhMhtGBejd6SU8FlIkxvjcd2CHevs-vCx5aow5eMUrbgcjE7_N0dmI3BvsEU0EL5JT2QW8fugOEdFFN5qETFMo9aBcMD-mvZnJMcpn6OrI/s640/IMG_0533.jpg" width="498" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmini-sweetie-pie-favors.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iGkyHVmn5Io%2FUYvkc1Xq9sI%2FAAAAAAAASRw%2F1K9-5t7_uQ0%2Fs640%2Fsweetie-pies_02.jpg&description=Mini%20%22Sweetie%20Pies%22%20Baby%20Shower%20Favors"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a>  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Last weekend I hosted a baby shower at my house.  I made these mini pies in two different varieties for the favor.  My original plan was to put two in each bag (twin girls!!)... but they wouldn't fit in the bag!  So at midnight the night before the party, I threw in the towel and just did one pie per bag and called it good.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8YONBIaPLydhP2rvkh4t7mXbqRi0D4k3loNu8Lx2ZruZ7u-MLcpMYHODSpvu-mLfpGuDJcvm48ozD6zQKVjMbSWsGNp7RHdHlqbvWiVnpOxWpcVif3YYrV4XqwFhwtusHqCKdCn7Jio/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8YONBIaPLydhP2rvkh4t7mXbqRi0D4k3loNu8Lx2ZruZ7u-MLcpMYHODSpvu-mLfpGuDJcvm48ozD6zQKVjMbSWsGNp7RHdHlqbvWiVnpOxWpcVif3YYrV4XqwFhwtusHqCKdCn7Jio/s640/IMG_0410.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is how I presented the favors at the shower - all lined up in a basket.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijv2jsFEbju8gz-ZMRdjYiWKAL6B58i-sr5Hl3AEttqLLNq0wVl0YhzYWCTeAQ82CIYECpx26647n0ebwzni8CS4ov08eK8YiIrptLlTqJ6JPFfCt6vt7aLZCVXqwFGoK1XHy93S_NbWM/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijv2jsFEbju8gz-ZMRdjYiWKAL6B58i-sr5Hl3AEttqLLNq0wVl0YhzYWCTeAQ82CIYECpx26647n0ebwzni8CS4ov08eK8YiIrptLlTqJ6JPFfCt6vt7aLZCVXqwFGoK1XHy93S_NbWM/s640/IMG_0395.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are two of the Strawberry Pies.  They were very simple to make - just a little time consuming, crimping all of the little edges.  I used store-bought pie crust... to make 24 pies I used 4 crusts - just FYI, it does take more than you think it will.  I had to go to the store in the middle of my pie making for another crust.  I would've made my own in such a pinch, but my food processor bowl is broken!  Not to worry though, the new replacement bowl came Tuesday.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkigTg83SppIBNF7axoei6blQLBGFV7XAyIvcbQIbX5l41xz7kNnanWO-k9DF3yw2axABdaFnk0xpNlUGgQLLezgqcolqXpTtHnYQLk1xVkUbbOD-feAZPYteZqoQ5lDGb_QLxQXgPRaM/s1600/IMG_0397.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkigTg83SppIBNF7axoei6blQLBGFV7XAyIvcbQIbX5l41xz7kNnanWO-k9DF3yw2axABdaFnk0xpNlUGgQLLezgqcolqXpTtHnYQLk1xVkUbbOD-feAZPYteZqoQ5lDGb_QLxQXgPRaM/s640/IMG_0397.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The filling is just chopped strawberries with raspberry jam.  The raspberry really brings out the "berry" factor of the strawberries.<br /><br /><i>Mini Strawberry Pies</i><br />12 mini pies<br /><br />2 store-bought pie crusts<br />2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries<br />1/4 cup of raspberry jam<br />1 egg<br />2 tablespoons of sugar<br /><br />Line a mini or regular size muffin tin with a bottom crust of store-bought pie dough - consider lining the muffin tins with cupcake paper liners.<br /><br />Melt the jam in the microwave for 30 seconds until it is pourable.  Poured it over the strawberries, then tossed them.  Fill each mini crust with strawberry filling.  In a small bowl beat an egg with a fork.  Brush the egg wash around the pie then top with another crust.  Pinch and flute or fork crimp the edges.  Brush the entire top with egg wash then sprinkle with sugar generously.<br /><br />Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes until brown.  You may need to cover the tops with foil to keep them from getting too brown before the bottoms are done.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGewcNiHx5pDJlAporgJhl7OluXVt-xvvfysD9m4YXV4MFmxY2QoYumaMya_7d1-vq0Qc_GQELtO0S2kN5ymUw-CKm6aSnmhFovlghqv_3Wbr6dW1AZb25V0Gk60D_i8hzhjr3ilCWJo/s1600/IMG_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGewcNiHx5pDJlAporgJhl7OluXVt-xvvfysD9m4YXV4MFmxY2QoYumaMya_7d1-vq0Qc_GQELtO0S2kN5ymUw-CKm6aSnmhFovlghqv_3Wbr6dW1AZb25V0Gk60D_i8hzhjr3ilCWJo/s640/IMG_0365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To make the base crusts, I used store-bought pie dough and cut out rounds using a glass bowl.  I found that pleating around the circle made it easier to fit it into the mini-muffin tin.  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdpVsttv7tId9qc1c4w1y79u6F-jXBtgthV-tMR_78EhAiGBKTHKY0NLCUQYsVXnWUN4jE9tBrAngLpyEEB91zo1FFIwva2o0ZmlpYm6UmTDvKNlk9FiKCUC6HyE1SO-gpVt9Rii6kHk/s1600/IMG_0371.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdpVsttv7tId9qc1c4w1y79u6F-jXBtgthV-tMR_78EhAiGBKTHKY0NLCUQYsVXnWUN4jE9tBrAngLpyEEB91zo1FFIwva2o0ZmlpYm6UmTDvKNlk9FiKCUC6HyE1SO-gpVt9Rii6kHk/s640/IMG_0371.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /> Half Apple Cinnamon and half Strawberry.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9M1aQ7D7MGPvwxG2K4WK0rioDOx22fhM5BBYgxS9Wo5LbNuz4jNvvQakIrqRBb7QNqNpYuBv4gp5lwduRNEP_weldHz9i9WeJh79Znz5f-OZU0DoNtDdOyOyUYXegXP096SZejfVrOGM/s1600/IMG_0375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9M1aQ7D7MGPvwxG2K4WK0rioDOx22fhM5BBYgxS9Wo5LbNuz4jNvvQakIrqRBb7QNqNpYuBv4gp5lwduRNEP_weldHz9i9WeJh79Znz5f-OZU0DoNtDdOyOyUYXegXP096SZejfVrOGM/s640/IMG_0375.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />You can see here how big the bottom dough crust needs to be to be able to flute/crimp the edge.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPq_nNAfMXzUz1c_zOhKsBGVmaf-WCZ6hT61fjoN3b8d3Sx9cG3sYzunEjEO2LwsperX3dMvySFPQBjU_BQ23G39m5rvSNWQuV45ByyAJ9_Jh1VG1XLKUSw4qL88PVuCN4vvr5L17Wx30/s1600/IMG_0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPq_nNAfMXzUz1c_zOhKsBGVmaf-WCZ6hT61fjoN3b8d3Sx9cG3sYzunEjEO2LwsperX3dMvySFPQBjU_BQ23G39m5rvSNWQuV45ByyAJ9_Jh1VG1XLKUSw4qL88PVuCN4vvr5L17Wx30/s640/IMG_0376.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX3ctkrZKEo-AoQ64hD75QODycdanbTxw77maULU45XjGtHjmnh-DYtABe06lRhI9d9PyWnsKE3vVzkqf2wTQRKCm_H_388HaWtjTrzvp0g4iQEhluIMAEhly0XZptrgA5w_BR2bXHvU/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX3ctkrZKEo-AoQ64hD75QODycdanbTxw77maULU45XjGtHjmnh-DYtABe06lRhI9d9PyWnsKE3vVzkqf2wTQRKCm_H_388HaWtjTrzvp0g4iQEhluIMAEhly0XZptrgA5w_BR2bXHvU/s640/IMG_0377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I cut a smaller circle and used it as the top of the strawberry.  To do the edges, roll the sides up and in, then crimp using your fingers just as you would large pie.  Cut slits in the top for steam.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95no38gUTCWXuE0kljri7zfkdwEDNO8NVhPFZ0Vpxv5lOOSFzmCeBRCHSnxnizBaL_q9k6VKn4R6saRp7r_M8iqT1Da0YHA-rKijBGVfxbKvtFgVgHOU5BLXjG9kZrEz8PzyqOpSEyz8/s1600/IMG_0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95no38gUTCWXuE0kljri7zfkdwEDNO8NVhPFZ0Vpxv5lOOSFzmCeBRCHSnxnizBaL_q9k6VKn4R6saRp7r_M8iqT1Da0YHA-rKijBGVfxbKvtFgVgHOU5BLXjG9kZrEz8PzyqOpSEyz8/s640/IMG_0378.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For the Apple Pies, I did a fork crimped edge.  <br /><br /><i>Mini Apple Pies</i><br />12 mini pies<br /><br />2 store-bought pie crusts<br />2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries<br />2 apples<br />2 tablespoons of sugar<br />1 tablespoon of flour<br />2 teaspoons of cinnamon<br />1 egg<br />2 tablespoons of sugar<br /><br />Line a mini or regular size muffin tin with a bottom crust of store-bought pie dough - consider lining the muffin tins with cupcake paper liners.<br /><br />Peel and dice the apples into a small dice.  Toss together the apples with sugar, cinnamon and flour.  Fill each mini crust with the apple filling.  In a small bowl beat an egg with a fork.  Brush the egg wash around the pie then top with another crust.  Pinch and flute or fork crimp the edges.  Brush the entire top with egg wash then sprinkle with sugar generously.<br /><br />Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes until brown.  You may need to cover the tops with foil to keep them from getting too brown before the bottoms are done. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88BqTijS5ZajZ_-3A4RWwj1raYfMlwoTauBlBqJYLITO4wwLYgThB7GoVKd5kq_iwG5G2vHVsNpevnK-gE6g7A-iRgWK4n0muaB5aGsRorPWfdf6o29sbFqI3li86xxUomNJis5L0ydM/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88BqTijS5ZajZ_-3A4RWwj1raYfMlwoTauBlBqJYLITO4wwLYgThB7GoVKd5kq_iwG5G2vHVsNpevnK-gE6g7A-iRgWK4n0muaB5aGsRorPWfdf6o29sbFqI3li86xxUomNJis5L0ydM/s640/IMG_0379.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />A tiny lattice would've been very cute, too. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguCZ3sVpxnj4Xz-HWSdkqDiEbrT4nPoDMaknwz3_fMejcFRTnRLN14FG1FMxyhyphenhyphenasU6fTQH1fLmBZb0qgNK71x3g03vF0JTSZM_1OrB46ZoI8eIhHXWgR3CB7W5yX4TzQRoetEtXYiV0/s1600/IMG_0382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguCZ3sVpxnj4Xz-HWSdkqDiEbrT4nPoDMaknwz3_fMejcFRTnRLN14FG1FMxyhyphenhyphenasU6fTQH1fLmBZb0qgNK71x3g03vF0JTSZM_1OrB46ZoI8eIhHXWgR3CB7W5yX4TzQRoetEtXYiV0/s640/IMG_0382.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />They baked for almost 25 minutes - I wanted to be sure the bottom crust was nice and brown so they would come out of the pan.  I think next time I'd use cupcake liners to make sure they come out easily. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsgGtz9qCiWX9VAfEP9XqnwSYFZpz7qMbKGMP_dPETNA-sEi69aKm0Hi68vmj4842c4rLHiLKaaxM4P7oyjzmlux9eFUCtsYrXSIG-m-IIcmdl-kNkGzlJmozA3AjZ8BmJpC8ItEdRuYE/s1600/IMG_0383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsgGtz9qCiWX9VAfEP9XqnwSYFZpz7qMbKGMP_dPETNA-sEi69aKm0Hi68vmj4842c4rLHiLKaaxM4P7oyjzmlux9eFUCtsYrXSIG-m-IIcmdl-kNkGzlJmozA3AjZ8BmJpC8ItEdRuYE/s640/IMG_0383.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I lost a couple of pies because I couldn't get them out!  The apple were much easier to get out. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaD1V_XZH8f0WVICE1psmZUfL05xifbT3HOHqF8z8yRaG5bV6WUbPbIcgdCBm_wVgP3sOHC6sezA1cAGwGNzY9lOPJLty0oGb8amuOXAQ1csks2utLMophw_DrJlZGJjf384Bhstt6kk/s1600/IMG_0384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaD1V_XZH8f0WVICE1psmZUfL05xifbT3HOHqF8z8yRaG5bV6WUbPbIcgdCBm_wVgP3sOHC6sezA1cAGwGNzY9lOPJLty0oGb8amuOXAQ1csks2utLMophw_DrJlZGJjf384Bhstt6kk/s640/IMG_0384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But the strawberry were my favorite - a great little summer treat!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqEf4HdEFpkwZ4YTz0aplCJol8Ce7XUeE2PZCxG4d577nC64n9RCIsb-jjd5wOxVgYGc2-2s59ekZkXIt9Xs-NWZ2HfMQbhpGMOWhvwL256LA0lH3wUsqd1XOWS-xs8BrehfVPPFsq6w/s1600/IMG_0537.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqEf4HdEFpkwZ4YTz0aplCJol8Ce7XUeE2PZCxG4d577nC64n9RCIsb-jjd5wOxVgYGc2-2s59ekZkXIt9Xs-NWZ2HfMQbhpGMOWhvwL256LA0lH3wUsqd1XOWS-xs8BrehfVPPFsq6w/s640/IMG_0537.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />I'll follow up with the packaging step-by-step next! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUf0HH3CidnRhz-U1OfZSwofh14CKHo2rfK1NCsO1l_hfx7p_nY1DWq6I4qcSgLI5Mz7cExOp0hG3mA_msIrFL5tv7wMgrJON8sXhBv2BvSSYBm6pgK3Nnxo2P-l540ULPdFl58VDL7P8/s1600/baby-shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUf0HH3CidnRhz-U1OfZSwofh14CKHo2rfK1NCsO1l_hfx7p_nY1DWq6I4qcSgLI5Mz7cExOp0hG3mA_msIrFL5tv7wMgrJON8sXhBv2BvSSYBm6pgK3Nnxo2P-l540ULPdFl58VDL7P8/s320/baby-shower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>To see all of the photos from the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/sugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html">Sugar & Spice Baby Shower</a>, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/sugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html">click here</a>!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURHTnsH81rJP6J7t0-Akv5xh1JjstVZ4qyRiXFwyICONwK-k8BkGQLjjQdBrm3g5UzB7UtBcwAlKsshGZ1IET8VRF35Ftec9jUOGzqzS7pzGfm7vWGyCKU9dTwZMDcnHd9LmGh61K-7A/s1600/sweetie-pies_02.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURHTnsH81rJP6J7t0-Akv5xh1JjstVZ4qyRiXFwyICONwK-k8BkGQLjjQdBrm3g5UzB7UtBcwAlKsshGZ1IET8VRF35Ftec9jUOGzqzS7pzGfm7vWGyCKU9dTwZMDcnHd9LmGh61K-7A/s640/sweetie-pies_02.jpg" width="140" /></a>Here is the easy-to-pin step by step!<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmini-sweetie-pie-favors.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iGkyHVmn5Io%2FUYvkc1Xq9sI%2FAAAAAAAASRw%2F1K9-5t7_uQ0%2Fs640%2Fsweetie-pies_02.jpg&description=Mini%20%22Sweetie%20Pies%22%20Baby%20Shower%20Favors"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Mini "Sweetie Pie" Favors

  Last weekend I hosted a baby shower at my house.  I made these mini pies in two different varieties for the favor.  My original plan was t...

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Studio progress: The desk is done!

We're nearing the finish line with our office renovation, and we finally made it past the biggest hurdle with marking the workspace area off our checklist.<br /><div><br /></div><div>After we built and assembled the <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-blackout-shade-liner-new-office.html" target="_blank">big desk</a>, we discovered it had some wobble to it. Possibly because it was so heavy, resting on skinny-ish legs, and not bolted or secured to anything.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsLeDkSnq23I63vHsGBccAXdDEThKN9DF2PKsfa9cuf1gcb_rv265Odedezp9eIO9PNuDNhwgQxQ7hSFyUSuM2ldPUIJE2cE_x23v-YxoMUfN4_oKsS22KYWih9XOC9BP4OjxZaxipCA1/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsLeDkSnq23I63vHsGBccAXdDEThKN9DF2PKsfa9cuf1gcb_rv265Odedezp9eIO9PNuDNhwgQxQ7hSFyUSuM2ldPUIJE2cE_x23v-YxoMUfN4_oKsS22KYWih9XOC9BP4OjxZaxipCA1/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /><div>The two Ikea desks on either side were also easily moveable—not ideal.</div><div><br /></div><div>To remedy this situation, I purchased some decent sized L brackets and Brad secured them underneath the large center desk into the wall where the studs were (sorry, no photos of this process, but there's not much to it). We were relieved to find that it worked! The desk won't budge now.</div><div><br /></div><div>We then attached the two side desks to the large desk with regular flat brackets, and now those won't move either when you pull or push on them. Success!</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it was time to address a storage issue I'd been trying to resolve for a long time now. See those large pieces of cardboard in the photo above? There's posters/extra large paper inside that had nowhere to go. I had no extra desk space to keep them, and I didn't like to store them vertically (didn't even have space for that). So what's a girl to do?</div><div><br /></div><div>Brad was wearing his thinking cap and suggested shallow drawer underneath the desk. Um, genius! Now I just had to figure out how to DIY it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I decided on a piece of 1/4" plywood and some 1x2"s for the sides, mounted with center mount drawer slides.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's how the placement would be: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpa3R3gRfcKkc7C4iQ9hRBGCCZUtwZTdoqAK1QyN2dr6P5NmVFX9VszUQib52f-BkmR4wsrdi2LAIxX8H0s6lnqG18pg96VWVI3HHysWw-l1cGWoOODW_x4HJUmlxgJ3gPPKEcxRD8Syd/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpa3R3gRfcKkc7C4iQ9hRBGCCZUtwZTdoqAK1QyN2dr6P5NmVFX9VszUQib52f-BkmR4wsrdi2LAIxX8H0s6lnqG18pg96VWVI3HHysWw-l1cGWoOODW_x4HJUmlxgJ3gPPKEcxRD8Syd/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The largest size Lowe's had was 22", and the length of my drawer needed to be 41" to accompany my biggest posters, so I crossed my fingers it would work.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hauled everything into the garage and got to work on my setup. I lined up the 1x2's with the edge of the plywood base and made my cuts:</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWnY7A39ZYrpPlBN1NeIwY5L16rnQnxsT6SR3ubdjcJ3MN_nAXFpkVRsloxGl3OpVIXaPN-AYMo9o-xfbDLGLWlleIdVgV9oUWzi3c9Q69EOQkzgv5wtYCzw0mYSz2_o5mfz1qXHxCHkP/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWnY7A39ZYrpPlBN1NeIwY5L16rnQnxsT6SR3ubdjcJ3MN_nAXFpkVRsloxGl3OpVIXaPN-AYMo9o-xfbDLGLWlleIdVgV9oUWzi3c9Q69EOQkzgv5wtYCzw0mYSz2_o5mfz1qXHxCHkP/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-51I2dnil7z4eFTl-kth7Eh3ef8WNaghJdB63A_przfCDnFcZYLjiquocASMjPtbZ6AqYj8UZDS4Fe1N1SUgeRricl7rTXxAJ4kKZiT-aaa4I6FfZDpVtcD1ImeiLkGpTUjmjOkeEoU_/s1600/IMG_0439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-51I2dnil7z4eFTl-kth7Eh3ef8WNaghJdB63A_przfCDnFcZYLjiquocASMjPtbZ6AqYj8UZDS4Fe1N1SUgeRricl7rTXxAJ4kKZiT-aaa4I6FfZDpVtcD1ImeiLkGpTUjmjOkeEoU_/s1600/IMG_0439.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Looks like a pretty straightforward plan, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>But then we realized we had a big problem. The drawer glides were one piece and couldn't be taken apart, which meant that once we attached it to the drawer, we couldn't attach it to the desk because the wood pieces would be in the way. DANGIT.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plan B was to chop the wood off right where the screw holes were to attach it to the desk. This meant that the back side of the drawer would be free hanging but we hoped it was light enough that it didn't matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>We started by securing the front side of the rail to our wood (with two 1" wood screws):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoNYQxScIbwihDPPoAZ3KMp-KC8EMMO67nH8-vsxsECslymnvZYi-bQ7HQ7R_mqHDCRu3lTXeUSsYa_T4gGu0-fuFIxpAQEORty9HlV10oxJmS_qIRn8Y_OOQzd_wItZTeef7tH54H0NB/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoNYQxScIbwihDPPoAZ3KMp-KC8EMMO67nH8-vsxsECslymnvZYi-bQ7HQ7R_mqHDCRu3lTXeUSsYa_T4gGu0-fuFIxpAQEORty9HlV10oxJmS_qIRn8Y_OOQzd_wItZTeef7tH54H0NB/s1600/IMG_0440.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a side view to get a better idea:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRswqwaUBUX4vFPyQp0Scpvo6NPNK4SUdGPTTIxVizLp0R7FlIfESmmavOOWIHouHY2KIxGje-PtwdzLYNksovqC2i16hmmGr_tmdpJoqcx2_PV0K7S57DRVTQ2rK9mvb_JvbsHcozsSID/s1600/IMG_0441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRswqwaUBUX4vFPyQp0Scpvo6NPNK4SUdGPTTIxVizLp0R7FlIfESmmavOOWIHouHY2KIxGje-PtwdzLYNksovqC2i16hmmGr_tmdpJoqcx2_PV0K7S57DRVTQ2rK9mvb_JvbsHcozsSID/s1600/IMG_0441.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Then we brought them inside, lined them to the correct spacing, and attached the back part of the slides to the desk from underneath.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once the placement was right, we attached our plywood base to the bottom:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4bnTHcgtVRdd4r26Bu3ZwYJ8zHUICGG0JMHfDbyS0Dv6jMDX1qFH2TtZDtXiyM3a6PZq9Ecewzi2TKOBg-ecq3WyOLcLo2HQ5PaxJThKC6_L93SMjCRdqQ1eyBLva8eiDqSbHqgQlHjr/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4bnTHcgtVRdd4r26Bu3ZwYJ8zHUICGG0JMHfDbyS0Dv6jMDX1qFH2TtZDtXiyM3a6PZq9Ecewzi2TKOBg-ecq3WyOLcLo2HQ5PaxJThKC6_L93SMjCRdqQ1eyBLva8eiDqSbHqgQlHjr/s1600/IMG_0444.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And with bated breath, I slowly pulled on the drawer...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXJhXvH2yXNZJiLSlnYN8Cb4WWnmFDmVxi7oyGSXKiwHE1Ds-4f0fWaN3cPn0Nv9WEA-c6N0eIszKEBH7ygpMcor47XL1tTP-NwX37mi2dM3zYsLXCia-QFDsm5kMkhsSjPmA6XQjoZzf/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXJhXvH2yXNZJiLSlnYN8Cb4WWnmFDmVxi7oyGSXKiwHE1Ds-4f0fWaN3cPn0Nv9WEA-c6N0eIszKEBH7ygpMcor47XL1tTP-NwX37mi2dM3zYsLXCia-QFDsm5kMkhsSjPmA6XQjoZzf/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>and it worked!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMFTo-FzagoFGIFxEGi5ZfE_tAzMxkDCdvg8eR-bVhuKYYbFtIygAeJwd8KLerAlMXt_OC04a5wIcCx2_HZ825zFpK9f1r_MD705hw9BuFsYA9gFZqIQaVcQNS0Jwv3j53Gx0h6Qxe3_r/s1600/IMG_0445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMFTo-FzagoFGIFxEGi5ZfE_tAzMxkDCdvg8eR-bVhuKYYbFtIygAeJwd8KLerAlMXt_OC04a5wIcCx2_HZ825zFpK9f1r_MD705hw9BuFsYA9gFZqIQaVcQNS0Jwv3j53Gx0h6Qxe3_r/s1600/IMG_0445.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What a sense of relief to be able to FINALLY get rid of that old cardboard that has been driving me crazy for over a year and have my posters nicely tucked away out of sight. </div><div><br /></div><div>We celebrated by rolling out the <a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-dulcet-ikat/spa/200BHBC27A-508.html" target="_blank">new rug</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9qJ7P9dxvQJTQYy5bbGGejqd976kQmzMuUfddMzIYY_AQA56ldTrFlezMWmw5P1BkrYjKlHQveXn6iFAHls-D4ZWXWEEvwJ5bE5RRgPm941BjthJ_s6wcPQDhV43soX3NlyeyImdvGPw/s1600/IMG_0449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9qJ7P9dxvQJTQYy5bbGGejqd976kQmzMuUfddMzIYY_AQA56ldTrFlezMWmw5P1BkrYjKlHQveXn6iFAHls-D4ZWXWEEvwJ5bE5RRgPm941BjthJ_s6wcPQDhV43soX3NlyeyImdvGPw/s1600/IMG_0449.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And yes, we totally should have done this before securing the desks in place... it was a total pain to get situated underneath everything! But it made such a difference in the overall feel of the room. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdzFZ-Lw5ragBUA_w3SMhJc1_SOJuSl-c25XN-kgkvzWmE9UFDMjMYF_58B7CtpXyT75JtVI2WXal-I9duNhAquUVesmNiMHYOhRlsf1lMiv1YCUqnkyEvimAZvZoTO7_caJYeqzxXvVE/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdzFZ-Lw5ragBUA_w3SMhJc1_SOJuSl-c25XN-kgkvzWmE9UFDMjMYF_58B7CtpXyT75JtVI2WXal-I9duNhAquUVesmNiMHYOhRlsf1lMiv1YCUqnkyEvimAZvZoTO7_caJYeqzxXvVE/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It instantly transformed it from an uninspired, white, institutional feel to a creative and happy environment—as it should be.</div><div><br /></div><div>I just hope it lasts, because this little one has made it her mission in life to destroy anything that starts with an R and ends with a UG...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFts2VPtX5lspZ5sab33sBhSH2qezfCEZ06jXllYDF-qrzO3LGlxrP7B9k5vg62_iNK7CqdKkNvQMsla-LzuRZIdHgUetOn5RMtIcpKQY2JzH8eiXmVl7Sf0p6_Xn0rz1EStj9pDKBOfk/s1600/IMG_0488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFts2VPtX5lspZ5sab33sBhSH2qezfCEZ06jXllYDF-qrzO3LGlxrP7B9k5vg62_iNK7CqdKkNvQMsla-LzuRZIdHgUetOn5RMtIcpKQY2JzH8eiXmVl7Sf0p6_Xn0rz1EStj9pDKBOfk/s1600/IMG_0488.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Yeah, I'm lookin at you, Miss Susie. Claw caps won't stop her!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Next it was time to get rid of the eyesore in the room...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tpPaOJm2SCgS8QG-H-rBOnwyDZHZ4rjfgoKF-sSEsrdehK-lsBQalxuA_0_Y60IpexxPoGgPwnlLm8yUn06FSsRbPfkuM3KQt2BSd3gJ5M9hfdvwS0i1NG_373JvwcktFoSdEsz-JeUx/s1600/IMG_0190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tpPaOJm2SCgS8QG-H-rBOnwyDZHZ4rjfgoKF-sSEsrdehK-lsBQalxuA_0_Y60IpexxPoGgPwnlLm8yUn06FSsRbPfkuM3KQt2BSd3gJ5M9hfdvwS0i1NG_373JvwcktFoSdEsz-JeUx/s1600/IMG_0190.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These horrible unfinished desk edges.</div><div><br /></div><div>They do make white edging tape for melamine boards, but it's only for the width of one board and I wanted it to look like one seamless thick desk.</div><div><br /></div><div>I figured my best/only option was trim, and found some in the perfect width (1.75").</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwuNapocT_OdDQYFCAGDgEgWP-KsR6DcCTMNQT_Vu7t4uJPJFWLXB_mQfckygdnQP5FkWLSwdX3fl7q9a5PseJTqzsjowgTXMrw38oKl-pJxSbIHDvL9IlAwSkK_I-MX27bKHAj_YU5d7/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwuNapocT_OdDQYFCAGDgEgWP-KsR6DcCTMNQT_Vu7t4uJPJFWLXB_mQfckygdnQP5FkWLSwdX3fl7q9a5PseJTqzsjowgTXMrw38oKl-pJxSbIHDvL9IlAwSkK_I-MX27bKHAj_YU5d7/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I cut the edges at a 45' miter so they would sit up nicely against each other.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LvsFO-PcSNY8De9J3oJz2mmMt7Pd5gugztaX66gZjd0o_TwEOO1s3fwOt5CsLxntk6flOSG_hp2GZQSX90FiS1wQSVzHWxtZax44ls8LrostjIDR4FYJjzhBP77Yc3fF4bjbhwsAW2rq/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9LvsFO-PcSNY8De9J3oJz2mmMt7Pd5gugztaX66gZjd0o_TwEOO1s3fwOt5CsLxntk6flOSG_hp2GZQSX90FiS1wQSVzHWxtZax44ls8LrostjIDR4FYJjzhBP77Yc3fF4bjbhwsAW2rq/s1600/IMG_0455.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Then I used a nail gun to secure everything.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRoBZXRQOAWdofgBTQVNI0BMvwF8hEr1xg4bC0fbWprK1Hg_mGBgHwlus07yES3P2ZvWtQY0wFO2gd7X1aiAGSzNr3jH1KLtNsjkCWJ9O2a_z63F1U9YHRF4PVAbH6EzhzOER8kxkZr_p/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRoBZXRQOAWdofgBTQVNI0BMvwF8hEr1xg4bC0fbWprK1Hg_mGBgHwlus07yES3P2ZvWtQY0wFO2gd7X1aiAGSzNr3jH1KLtNsjkCWJ9O2a_z63F1U9YHRF4PVAbH6EzhzOER8kxkZr_p/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>All it took was some spackle, sanding and touch up paint. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDv6DDZOnbdj2k-77DjMF5dcg7SIK8Wx9W3Y0RlqmmqJR4YjJ7wqmnPU87l92PjzOsLv0jMpV_xbUjFpLKLlYizlzQ8auEN-HXhQZiJWsvClvlIZ0_uBdt3cqmnSflfqS57Twu8a_eWYB/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDv6DDZOnbdj2k-77DjMF5dcg7SIK8Wx9W3Y0RlqmmqJR4YjJ7wqmnPU87l92PjzOsLv0jMpV_xbUjFpLKLlYizlzQ8auEN-HXhQZiJWsvClvlIZ0_uBdt3cqmnSflfqS57Twu8a_eWYB/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This was the easiest part of the day, and really makes the room look finished!</div><div><br /></div><div>Next, we focused the bare space in the center of the back wall. </div><div><br /></div><div>Remember these letters from the old office?</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroXtI1c7JGGYdJyTGrpNK421MPSiu4mBPVFLvM26pNz0iUfWsdn-YeNmI849e0QqwCCQIuVF0CyOYGiduSn-pjA03p-yKgKY-6Qj2UB2mqMJ82tjcjPnAwkmzd4Bm66mHbAZrBQkc8ixL/s1600/IMG_8828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroXtI1c7JGGYdJyTGrpNK421MPSiu4mBPVFLvM26pNz0iUfWsdn-YeNmI849e0QqwCCQIuVF0CyOYGiduSn-pjA03p-yKgKY-6Qj2UB2mqMJ82tjcjPnAwkmzd4Bm66mHbAZrBQkc8ixL/s1600/IMG_8828.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>They got a makeover, via leftover brushed nickel spray paint from my Ikea shelves:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZ5iyz_W-x918ANIcTOd-9h4UdFAuT8ympijDTHxS3RHUj5wq5rz-O344WLA6OSUdBpSRC-1F2UHwvZtStf0xJ-_AwD1pH0FxLVmKf9AsOsVfqO36vU18c4NKCglHjPZZxKMM2EHvjeVD/s1600/IMG_0452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZ5iyz_W-x918ANIcTOd-9h4UdFAuT8ympijDTHxS3RHUj5wq5rz-O344WLA6OSUdBpSRC-1F2UHwvZtStf0xJ-_AwD1pH0FxLVmKf9AsOsVfqO36vU18c4NKCglHjPZZxKMM2EHvjeVD/s1600/IMG_0452.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also relocated this Ikea rail that used to hang in the old closet space...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9q9X5oTF6SSJLuCTlOsszwNF5F3fJHZZdRxMfS7gDudiucVWzi9OTB0Nl6FYH16wmx3xTkafNoAanXF7zlE6P1zfgAVoRBGxjXPZKVDYTLqIABapaMWAEdOZ8XUQiR6-dzv9UlB7b3khX/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9q9X5oTF6SSJLuCTlOsszwNF5F3fJHZZdRxMfS7gDudiucVWzi9OTB0Nl6FYH16wmx3xTkafNoAanXF7zlE6P1zfgAVoRBGxjXPZKVDYTLqIABapaMWAEdOZ8XUQiR6-dzv9UlB7b3khX/s1600/IMG_0448.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like how the light is positioned directly above it to illuminate the letters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVq5PX7LEkj9DQ52hpDZwQJvI8e9od4lJR04dAqC6dPYjHyb3DHglFVLUqZtsGZXL6ONFXfkQ0bSNFgysFCagbAotqys4qTIPUziXvYM56ygT9znN5ezf8PbQVo4Sb9MhyphenhyphenhNWuhuSkSWE/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVq5PX7LEkj9DQ52hpDZwQJvI8e9od4lJR04dAqC6dPYjHyb3DHglFVLUqZtsGZXL6ONFXfkQ0bSNFgysFCagbAotqys4qTIPUziXvYM56ygT9znN5ezf8PbQVo4Sb9MhyphenhyphenhNWuhuSkSWE/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, back to the desk.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a day or two, I noticed the plywood was sagging a bit in the back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wuGz1S8payYRhKFAa7zo4NxtTLsJ4rFhhyphenhypheny_jpVhX9xZTSYxPy1kwpPqL8tVQanhhY1eRiNLMc_SfvybkOS6FEq-m3rLfR3qbIyUWoWvouK_NUI9NpYOoW1aX55Yfd8QHo1O_7q7mrL4/s1600/IMG_0473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wuGz1S8payYRhKFAa7zo4NxtTLsJ4rFhhyphenhypheny_jpVhX9xZTSYxPy1kwpPqL8tVQanhhY1eRiNLMc_SfvybkOS6FEq-m3rLfR3qbIyUWoWvouK_NUI9NpYOoW1aX55Yfd8QHo1O_7q7mrL4/s1600/IMG_0473.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh and FYI, the bench in the back was originally going to go underneath my map wall by the printer, but it ended up being too cramped in that corner so it was relocated to this otherwise wasted space under the desk.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another angle to showcase the plywood saggage...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AExkxVALMCts4XPEvV18xk8BUfAv3F-O-_QXHsiMdxDZEDdbnN8Y1D7PeTNL6n9aUWe1tcgo5yNQNOSQQBbsUa8JJYB5ZPRIeMwC7SAXcEC2jtuLIgV8Ods9DF0TO3WxMdnbD6zXSqQn/s1600/IMG_0474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AExkxVALMCts4XPEvV18xk8BUfAv3F-O-_QXHsiMdxDZEDdbnN8Y1D7PeTNL6n9aUWe1tcgo5yNQNOSQQBbsUa8JJYB5ZPRIeMwC7SAXcEC2jtuLIgV8Ods9DF0TO3WxMdnbD6zXSqQn/s1600/IMG_0474.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I chopped another 1x2" to line up with the edge, used some wood glue and brackets to attach it to the front piece, then screwed the plywood in to the bottom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Problem solved.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvLOvHpLt4nSv_cPS_To4U6jTpwNA8rgWnCBY_cxle3RneI_iPna33VSX4pjKPkoC4G6GmC6BvjbQWDZSSQBidVqc9GOTqr6dubEewr1KlEzzVr8bpzGTK85sciKs-zoNRr6nC7P1z2OZ/s1600/IMG_0475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvLOvHpLt4nSv_cPS_To4U6jTpwNA8rgWnCBY_cxle3RneI_iPna33VSX4pjKPkoC4G6GmC6BvjbQWDZSSQBidVqc9GOTqr6dubEewr1KlEzzVr8bpzGTK85sciKs-zoNRr6nC7P1z2OZ/s1600/IMG_0475.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKQMOPulti1nIhZ9f4-Myc3MGlHpeoePwznh08Zg0FVBpwI2Dq2-DrlMJHrePaf9DeTqhRRbwKTP0wlM_RvJ8beie7XpEnC8xWRPFyrGXFeHC5A0C_KFbagkrlvNu5wQSp0Mc-7_e_FWS/s1600/IMG_0476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKQMOPulti1nIhZ9f4-Myc3MGlHpeoePwznh08Zg0FVBpwI2Dq2-DrlMJHrePaf9DeTqhRRbwKTP0wlM_RvJ8beie7XpEnC8xWRPFyrGXFeHC5A0C_KFbagkrlvNu5wQSp0Mc-7_e_FWS/s1600/IMG_0476.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I then decided I wasn't in love with the au naturale wood tone of the drawer. Even though it's mostly hidden, you can see a bit of the edge and the front and I wanted to minimize its visibility by blending it in with its surroundings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiODVfAT8XNmk3yIAErtvdSOdCJS-LS6SLJaJaMSq6jBGGHNyzMsh2rAy-6SmJNOVNbRgtT8MBwY1nXNyK7rbHaRlE-ha1zpWMR1zn2j0GtbUxI8K767pfAhF9SyjpCFmGx0YaqehKVVrI/s1600/IMG_0477-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiODVfAT8XNmk3yIAErtvdSOdCJS-LS6SLJaJaMSq6jBGGHNyzMsh2rAy-6SmJNOVNbRgtT8MBwY1nXNyK7rbHaRlE-ha1zpWMR1zn2j0GtbUxI8K767pfAhF9SyjpCFmGx0YaqehKVVrI/s1600/IMG_0477-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Out came the white paint.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBbHv6GfqL9fMEsV1tx5Lf3CkY9l2_Y4s6biNBCZ3WTOGfdV0lBG8uVDBSrjqRnlno_-L4dg9K30mD36D9vu7vK3EgTO1GG9ddN4s4ASKAwPBb8w6Hrk46Ak7sPLLk-Z2_Vj3vqd3BunJ/s1600/IMG_0483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBbHv6GfqL9fMEsV1tx5Lf3CkY9l2_Y4s6biNBCZ3WTOGfdV0lBG8uVDBSrjqRnlno_-L4dg9K30mD36D9vu7vK3EgTO1GG9ddN4s4ASKAwPBb8w6Hrk46Ak7sPLLk-Z2_Vj3vqd3BunJ/s1600/IMG_0483.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Much better...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4BI8dr96lln-yafQ0llMbprcHqmtFsyZQ3coNXUuanx44XV8wHn7VnB8h_14P_gnonyRRhsuy94wDOADl6oKPdbh9lEJVcOu6ZvhenMArB_yI0-VM0Px3EhG6QuHL1IE-0HLe_vtSYJO/s1600/IMG_0484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4BI8dr96lln-yafQ0llMbprcHqmtFsyZQ3coNXUuanx44XV8wHn7VnB8h_14P_gnonyRRhsuy94wDOADl6oKPdbh9lEJVcOu6ZvhenMArB_yI0-VM0Px3EhG6QuHL1IE-0HLe_vtSYJO/s1600/IMG_0484.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Now it just looks like an extension of the desk. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEY8QMCumOLtxIUcHbiU-X73uUndw1XWDwWbiRHsoZssLxm9-t69Q3uWPKrbosSWe05f7Xchy6bQYXOOC2q2E9lA8JkrHsDHI8VTtMJLcBPmtrev7tY6oUTVedDVTIRFA1jcbjZK4Y8YM/s1600/IMG_0486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEY8QMCumOLtxIUcHbiU-X73uUndw1XWDwWbiRHsoZssLxm9-t69Q3uWPKrbosSWe05f7Xchy6bQYXOOC2q2E9lA8JkrHsDHI8VTtMJLcBPmtrev7tY6oUTVedDVTIRFA1jcbjZK4Y8YM/s1600/IMG_0486.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you spot the jumping cat?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>That just about covers it for now. I was going to squeeze in a couple more projects but figured they were special enough to save for their own post next week.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I do want to share this awesome custom engraved sign I purchased on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SteelGooseMetalArt" target="_blank">Etsy</a>...</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOl318APmH5yfVVkoxxU0QFNFocPFfS-gv2ZZgKimECdknkUZenv7V9odNKTHdZU_cIg13aa0wavo2JdMDY-OIpYV-C156NTTVMDQQKDKbHMO1Q9k91z7OAZY5_uwosURYkPWMLhyphenhyphenye0yb/s1600/IMG_0489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOl318APmH5yfVVkoxxU0QFNFocPFfS-gv2ZZgKimECdknkUZenv7V9odNKTHdZU_cIg13aa0wavo2JdMDY-OIpYV-C156NTTVMDQQKDKbHMO1Q9k91z7OAZY5_uwosURYkPWMLhyphenhyphenye0yb/s1600/IMG_0489.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This will be attached to the door. Love it!</div><div><br /><br />Up next I'll be sharing my final two projects before the big reveal <i>(hint: they involve words!)</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hIQnbXAwDyaGAMqMsgUDN7opcFzgxEs23rJKRrAp2n0UTqu-auFdP81cjlg2vm0lfzLZ5dfCjU5RR9jzgJs0S_FFXpvNCYxS4y6dFIAqR0DsGSCnvghW0hiSZsTWa0CXbIj4J86OAh8O/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hIQnbXAwDyaGAMqMsgUDN7opcFzgxEs23rJKRrAp2n0UTqu-auFdP81cjlg2vm0lfzLZ5dfCjU5RR9jzgJs0S_FFXpvNCYxS4y6dFIAqR0DsGSCnvghW0hiSZsTWa0CXbIj4J86OAh8O/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div>

Studio progress: The desk is done!

We're nearing the finish line with our office renovation, and we finally made it past the biggest hurdle with marking the workspace area...

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Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Walnuts

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOX3P-CX2xAFouDeJJRD44Sk2c-ShvFGzAL4GtBk5T3SmHYJ7Jook6B-6YVYoQ8hO37EHhQJBK3V_c3Gya75D6TunVS-1b6Ow3bigbC4rBlcQDQbwoemjKFL35F4xCJ44HxQSHHnu6fQ/s1600/IMG_0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOX3P-CX2xAFouDeJJRD44Sk2c-ShvFGzAL4GtBk5T3SmHYJ7Jook6B-6YVYoQ8hO37EHhQJBK3V_c3Gya75D6TunVS-1b6Ow3bigbC4rBlcQDQbwoemjKFL35F4xCJ44HxQSHHnu6fQ/s640/IMG_0448.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the recipe for the Spinach & Strawberry Salad that we made for the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/05/sugar-spice-baby-shower-at-our-house.html">"Sugar & Spice" Baby Shower last weekend</a> - it soooo good!  Enjoy!<br />............ <br /><br />Just in time for Mother's Day, this recipe comes courtesy of Mike's Mom, Joy.  When we first started dating Mike requested that I make this very salad - the <i>only</i> salad that he likes.  It really is one of the best salads - there something about the dressing that is so delicious... especially mixed with the sweet strawberries.  Thanks for sharing your recipe Joy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKAnK_SZgaO17miqtZHULvggHa-o3qtpeiOKFVg-9m-vpXWm8-Uv1B-wq12o6ymHuSk9_vnZUW3FkK59T9u9wqfd9vRsItmzzg3Lv3j1cI0HlfUPcHOGFdd3T_s61YroPzU31iYZNzjg/s1600/spin-salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKAnK_SZgaO17miqtZHULvggHa-o3qtpeiOKFVg-9m-vpXWm8-Uv1B-wq12o6ymHuSk9_vnZUW3FkK59T9u9wqfd9vRsItmzzg3Lv3j1cI0HlfUPcHOGFdd3T_s61YroPzU31iYZNzjg/s400/spin-salad.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Best</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Spinach & Strawberry </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Salad </i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fspinach-strawberry-salad-with-walnuts.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F--Gc9Ha-juts%2FUYhnpeJ36JI%2FAAAAAAAASN0%2FZImyuppB-Lk%2Fs400%2Fspin-salad.jpg&description=The%20Best%20Spinach%20%26%20Strawberry%20Salad"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br /><i>New! <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8;">Printable Recipes</span>, here.</a></i><br /><br />Spinach + Boston or Leaf Lettuce (your choice!)<br />1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced<br />1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese<br />1 cup toasted Walnuts<br /><br />Red Wine Vinegar Dressing <br />1/2 cup red wine vinegar<br />1 cup vegetable oil<br />1/2 cup sugar<br />2 cloves of garlic, minced<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1/2 tsp paprika<br />1/4 tsp white pepper<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Walnuts

This is the recipe for the Spinach & Strawberry Salad that we made for the "Sugar & Spice" Baby Shower last weekend - it ...

Read more »