I made a costly mistake this evening. In preparation for an art exhibit tomorrow morning, I decided I wanted to enter my new project, the broken wine glass/ clay vase. I touched up some spots in the clay and then got right to painting. I wanted to paint the swirling vines and leaves a shade of green and the rest or it a light tan color. I thought it would be tranquil. Once the outside was dry my intention was to paint the inside red. The colors corresponded with a painting I did earlier and also planned on entering to the exhibit. All was going well until I went to clean a little spot of paint off the glass portion of the vase. This is where I realized my fatal mistake- the paint I used was not adhering to the clay- I could peel it off! And of course, to make matters worse, it had bled in between the clay and the glass. The only remedy- an exacto knife, my nails, and super glue. I had to break pieces off to strip it of the paint and then glue them together. After it was all done and after 2 hours of scraping and glueing, I was able to re-patch spots on the clay and return it to its former glory.
The moral of the story- do NOT attempt to paint on Crayola's Air Dry clay- it does not work. Save yourself a few hours and don't attempt it at home. Hopefully it will be a better "Martha" day tomorrow...
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Pick Your Palette- Know About Color Before You Paint
I took a class hosted by Benjamin Moore at my local Pottery Barn and learned some great tips I think everyone should know. I originally thought it would be a basic class, all about how to paint a wall, but it went so much further! I learned some great information about color in general. These tips are things I have taken from the Benjamin Moore book, "Color Language." I think its free at Benjamin Moore stores, so go pick one up, learn a lot, and start planning your color make over! Color is the cheapest way to reinvent your home, and it takes a weekend to complete. Another bonus, involve your fam and friends- have a painting party and go to town.
Here are the highlights from the book "Color Language:"
1. Know your temperature and how to use it. I'm not talking about your thermostat. Reds, yellows, and oranges are warmer while blues, greens, and violets are usually cool. Warm colors "advance" or "condense" a room while cool colors "recede" or "expand" a room.
2. Lighting makes a huge difference in the perception of your color. When you pick out a color chip from a store, buy a sample of the color (usually a few dollars for a little bucket of the color), and paint a patch on your wall. Watch the patch throughout the day to decide if you really like that color with both the natural and artificial light in your room.
3. There are different ways of combining colors: monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and triad. Monochromatic is a single color used in different shades and hues. If you don't know what "shade" and "hues" really mean, I suggest a quick Wikipedia or google search to familiarize yourself. You'll knock the socks off of the paint sales person when you go in there spewing hues, shades, and tints of a color. complementary are two colors opposing on the color wheel. Any good paint section should have a color wheel available, or you can find a good example online. Think red and green for Christmas for this example. Analogous colors are consecutive colors on the color wheel and triad are colors that are equally spaced on the color wheel. Triad is similar to complementary but are more than two.
4. Consider the "mood" of your room while thinking about your colors and schemes. Are you painting your bedroom? Do you want to feel relaxed and calm in there? Think monochromatic or analogous. Colors that are closer on the color wheel to each other are the most calming combination. If it is a family room, play room, or even kitchen, you may want more energy. This is a great recipe for complementary or triad color schemes.
5. Finally, consider sheen. This is my biggest take-away. I always just went for flat. I never knew there was a reason behind all the other choices! Flat is a great choice, some times. It is also referred to as "matte." This sheen provides a good cover for imperfect walls and most ceilings. It's also easy to touch up. If you are doing a kitchen or bath, soft sheens are a good choice because they are easy to keep clean and are a soft glow. Soft sheens are eggshells, pearl, and satin sheens. Semi-gloss is essential for trims. It is hard-wearing and durable. It reflects light and frames a matte or soft sheen wall well.
There you have it! Now you're ready to give your house that spring make over you have been dreaming about, it's just a gallon away!
Here are the highlights from the book "Color Language:"
1. Know your temperature and how to use it. I'm not talking about your thermostat. Reds, yellows, and oranges are warmer while blues, greens, and violets are usually cool. Warm colors "advance" or "condense" a room while cool colors "recede" or "expand" a room.
2. Lighting makes a huge difference in the perception of your color. When you pick out a color chip from a store, buy a sample of the color (usually a few dollars for a little bucket of the color), and paint a patch on your wall. Watch the patch throughout the day to decide if you really like that color with both the natural and artificial light in your room.
3. There are different ways of combining colors: monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and triad. Monochromatic is a single color used in different shades and hues. If you don't know what "shade" and "hues" really mean, I suggest a quick Wikipedia or google search to familiarize yourself. You'll knock the socks off of the paint sales person when you go in there spewing hues, shades, and tints of a color. complementary are two colors opposing on the color wheel. Any good paint section should have a color wheel available, or you can find a good example online. Think red and green for Christmas for this example. Analogous colors are consecutive colors on the color wheel and triad are colors that are equally spaced on the color wheel. Triad is similar to complementary but are more than two.
4. Consider the "mood" of your room while thinking about your colors and schemes. Are you painting your bedroom? Do you want to feel relaxed and calm in there? Think monochromatic or analogous. Colors that are closer on the color wheel to each other are the most calming combination. If it is a family room, play room, or even kitchen, you may want more energy. This is a great recipe for complementary or triad color schemes.
5. Finally, consider sheen. This is my biggest take-away. I always just went for flat. I never knew there was a reason behind all the other choices! Flat is a great choice, some times. It is also referred to as "matte." This sheen provides a good cover for imperfect walls and most ceilings. It's also easy to touch up. If you are doing a kitchen or bath, soft sheens are a good choice because they are easy to keep clean and are a soft glow. Soft sheens are eggshells, pearl, and satin sheens. Semi-gloss is essential for trims. It is hard-wearing and durable. It reflects light and frames a matte or soft sheen wall well.
There you have it! Now you're ready to give your house that spring make over you have been dreaming about, it's just a gallon away!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Something Short and Sweet for You To Craft About
I broke a wine glass tonight. I don't know how I managed it but I did. I was trying to get out a Pyrex dish from the bottom shelf and the wine glass was on the middle shelf. I didn't even touch it! I lightly rocked the cabinet getting out the dish and SNAP! The stem separated from the bowl. Now what to do? I hate to throw anything out and I always convince myself it can be used for something (and in most cases this is true). I did what any resourceful woman would do- I went to the craft box. Now there are certain things that should always be in a carft box, but I just added a new product the other day, and have been dying for a reason to try it out. Now was my chance.
Crayola Air-Dry Clay. What a miracle! I have always wanted to do my own pottery but had no desire to pay for a class let alone the give up some spare time to devote to such a luxury. This was the compromise I was looking for. I spent an hour with an old board, the wine glass pieces, the container of clay and a bowl full of water. It was messy but fun (despite the injury to the hand- I'm a bit of a klutz and forgot I was working with broken glass. Don't make the same mistake!). I created a flower vase with a thick clay base and a vine twisting around the glass. I made a few clay leaves and attached them. The bowl of water is for dipping your fingers in to connect the pieces seamlessly. It will take 2-3 days for it to fully dry, but when it does, I think I will paint it, again dipping into my craft box for some color choices. and Voila! A recycled broken wine glass and a new little addition to my vase collection.
The clay cost me about $7 at Michael's. If you aren't already, I suggest signing up for Michael's emails for coupons, then you get it even cheaper. Another bonus of shopping this craft store? Your receipt has another coupon on it. I now get 50% another item the next time I go in! So worth it!
You don't have to wait for a broken wine glass to get to work with this amazing product. Anything around the house you don't use anymore or use it on its own to make something fun with your kids or a unique gift for the next birthday or holiday coming up.
Here are some suggested ways to decorate this new canvas:
~ Use lace to imprint a sweet texture to a smooth clay surface
~ Use rubber stamps to imprint images or letters into the clay
~ Have a stock of acrylic paints in you craft box- a variety of colors is always useful and cheap- use these paints a cheap paint brush to put some color on your project. I love metallic to add a little class.
~ An exacto knife will help "score" the clay to write in it or carve designs into it
~ Buy different colors of other clays to add deep color. I haven't tried it yet, but I'm wondering what a little coloring added to the white mix I bought will look like. Do you think it will work? Only one way to find out! I'll let you know how it goes!
~ Buttons, beads, ribbon, or other notions can be pressed in or attached on to it to add a different texture and focus feature.
Happy crafting, everyone! I hope you have as mush fun with this easy-to-use clay! Pictures to come of my project and how the coloring science experience goes!
Oh, and P.S.- I get to sleep next to the biggest hunk in the world! (In tribute to my handsome fiance- I love you!)
Crayola Air-Dry Clay. What a miracle! I have always wanted to do my own pottery but had no desire to pay for a class let alone the give up some spare time to devote to such a luxury. This was the compromise I was looking for. I spent an hour with an old board, the wine glass pieces, the container of clay and a bowl full of water. It was messy but fun (despite the injury to the hand- I'm a bit of a klutz and forgot I was working with broken glass. Don't make the same mistake!). I created a flower vase with a thick clay base and a vine twisting around the glass. I made a few clay leaves and attached them. The bowl of water is for dipping your fingers in to connect the pieces seamlessly. It will take 2-3 days for it to fully dry, but when it does, I think I will paint it, again dipping into my craft box for some color choices. and Voila! A recycled broken wine glass and a new little addition to my vase collection.
The clay cost me about $7 at Michael's. If you aren't already, I suggest signing up for Michael's emails for coupons, then you get it even cheaper. Another bonus of shopping this craft store? Your receipt has another coupon on it. I now get 50% another item the next time I go in! So worth it!
You don't have to wait for a broken wine glass to get to work with this amazing product. Anything around the house you don't use anymore or use it on its own to make something fun with your kids or a unique gift for the next birthday or holiday coming up.
Here are some suggested ways to decorate this new canvas:
~ Use lace to imprint a sweet texture to a smooth clay surface
~ Use rubber stamps to imprint images or letters into the clay
~ Have a stock of acrylic paints in you craft box- a variety of colors is always useful and cheap- use these paints a cheap paint brush to put some color on your project. I love metallic to add a little class.
~ An exacto knife will help "score" the clay to write in it or carve designs into it
~ Buy different colors of other clays to add deep color. I haven't tried it yet, but I'm wondering what a little coloring added to the white mix I bought will look like. Do you think it will work? Only one way to find out! I'll let you know how it goes!
~ Buttons, beads, ribbon, or other notions can be pressed in or attached on to it to add a different texture and focus feature.
Happy crafting, everyone! I hope you have as mush fun with this easy-to-use clay! Pictures to come of my project and how the coloring science experience goes!
Oh, and P.S.- I get to sleep next to the biggest hunk in the world! (In tribute to my handsome fiance- I love you!)
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Look Fabulous and Keep Your Money in the Bank- Some Suggestions How to Make it Possible
Have you ever wondered how to look trendy and smart without breaking the bank? I have an answer for you. My first advice: I am a big fan of the website style.com. This is the home site of Vogue, and a great resource to women and men worldwide. It connects the public with fashion shows, parties, and trend updates. My favorite spot? The Trends section. This is a review of ALL the fashion shows for the upcoming season, broken down into easy to understand themes, with overviews and short slide show presentations. I love it. It makes it so much easier when I am out shopping to know what to look for so I can stay current. I do have some advice about shopping trends, however. Trends come and go quickly, and unless you are certain a particular trend will have staying power, you don't want to invest in something too expensive. Follow these tips and maybe you will find looking fabulous and keeping a little more money in the bank an easier task;
Tip 1: Before going out shopping, review the Trends section on Style.com to figure out what the upcoming trneds are for the season you are shopping for. If you are a visual person, print off some pictures or styles you like or print off the reviews of the trends to bring with you to stay on track.
Tip 2: Always invest in the staples. A great pair of jeans, fabulous black, brown, and white/metallic pumps, and some good fitting T-shirts are my go-to's. Think about work staples, too. I like to have a great black suit, both pant and skirt, and at least one white button down shirt. With these staples in your closet you are set to begin adding little things in that will make a big impact.
Tip 3: Think of your dream house. What color would you paint the walls? If you could dress head to toe in one color, what would it be? If you had the power to dip your office, like those soft serve ice cream cones you dip into a hard candy coating, what color would your coating be? This color you think of is your focus color. If you have more than one, that's great, but having at least one is a great starting point. You can add these colors into your wardrobe and you will not regret having them around. They are you favorite colors!
Tip 4: Buy small add ons. Is it 50's inspired this season? Grab an inexpensive felt hat to add to your ensemble, and voila!, You are channeling 50's like the best of them! Last season it was biker chic. Yikes! Not my cup of tea. But beleive me I channeled my inner Harley Davidson and donned the trend. How? A pair of jeans, a tee, and a chunky metal chain necklace. Inexpensive, trendy, and fun with out being a train wreck, broke, and ridiculous. Find the trend, boil it down to a single accessory and shop until you find the best deal. Beleive me, it's satisfying when you accomplish it.
Tip 5: Shop Forever 21. If you have never stepped foot in the store, you are doing yourself a disservice, no matter your age. This is a great store to find trendy items for super cheap. I'm not a big fan of the clothes, they are wear-and-toss, but their accessories are great additions and won't even begin to cler out your wallet. Stock up, and don't feel bad when the multi-chain, bright colored plastic heart trend goes out the window, you can toss it and make room for the next new find.
Tip 6: Don't be afraid of second hand. I am a label lover and am not ashamed of it. If you are too, but are like me and don't have the resources to buy them, learn to love second hand. There are some great resources out there where you can find great deals. For me, it's Name Droppers and Uptown Cheapskate. I bring my old stuff in and trade it for "new" things. They may not be new with tags (although it does happen), but it's worth it for only paying $15 for a hot pink coach wallet or $20 pair of Joe's Jeans.
Tips 7: Online and brick and mortar discount shopping is wonderful. If you didn't read it already, you can learn all about my love affair with TJMaxx from yesterday's blog, but I didn't tell you my love for a few other places. Gilt.com and Ideeli.com are favorites on my browser. They are discount online shopping sites that are free to join and fun to browse. They have things on there ranging from Fendi to Steve Madden at unbeleivable prices. Armed with your knowledge of the latest trends, which can be just a tab away on style.com, you can make trendy, cheap purchases without leaving the comfort of your living room.
I hope these suggestions help in your quest for stylish stardom. Don't be afraid- shopping is meant to be fun! Always find your style and it will be. The bottom line- fashion comes and goes, style is eternal. This is a famous qoute from somewhere, but it is always something that resonates with me. Find out what you are most comfortable, invest in great quality staples, and don't be afraid to sprinkle some inexpensive, trendy items in to keep you current. Happy shopping, everyone! If you need help, let me know!
Tip 1: Before going out shopping, review the Trends section on Style.com to figure out what the upcoming trneds are for the season you are shopping for. If you are a visual person, print off some pictures or styles you like or print off the reviews of the trends to bring with you to stay on track.
Tip 2: Always invest in the staples. A great pair of jeans, fabulous black, brown, and white/metallic pumps, and some good fitting T-shirts are my go-to's. Think about work staples, too. I like to have a great black suit, both pant and skirt, and at least one white button down shirt. With these staples in your closet you are set to begin adding little things in that will make a big impact.
Tip 3: Think of your dream house. What color would you paint the walls? If you could dress head to toe in one color, what would it be? If you had the power to dip your office, like those soft serve ice cream cones you dip into a hard candy coating, what color would your coating be? This color you think of is your focus color. If you have more than one, that's great, but having at least one is a great starting point. You can add these colors into your wardrobe and you will not regret having them around. They are you favorite colors!
Tip 4: Buy small add ons. Is it 50's inspired this season? Grab an inexpensive felt hat to add to your ensemble, and voila!, You are channeling 50's like the best of them! Last season it was biker chic. Yikes! Not my cup of tea. But beleive me I channeled my inner Harley Davidson and donned the trend. How? A pair of jeans, a tee, and a chunky metal chain necklace. Inexpensive, trendy, and fun with out being a train wreck, broke, and ridiculous. Find the trend, boil it down to a single accessory and shop until you find the best deal. Beleive me, it's satisfying when you accomplish it.
Tip 5: Shop Forever 21. If you have never stepped foot in the store, you are doing yourself a disservice, no matter your age. This is a great store to find trendy items for super cheap. I'm not a big fan of the clothes, they are wear-and-toss, but their accessories are great additions and won't even begin to cler out your wallet. Stock up, and don't feel bad when the multi-chain, bright colored plastic heart trend goes out the window, you can toss it and make room for the next new find.
Tip 6: Don't be afraid of second hand. I am a label lover and am not ashamed of it. If you are too, but are like me and don't have the resources to buy them, learn to love second hand. There are some great resources out there where you can find great deals. For me, it's Name Droppers and Uptown Cheapskate. I bring my old stuff in and trade it for "new" things. They may not be new with tags (although it does happen), but it's worth it for only paying $15 for a hot pink coach wallet or $20 pair of Joe's Jeans.
Tips 7: Online and brick and mortar discount shopping is wonderful. If you didn't read it already, you can learn all about my love affair with TJMaxx from yesterday's blog, but I didn't tell you my love for a few other places. Gilt.com and Ideeli.com are favorites on my browser. They are discount online shopping sites that are free to join and fun to browse. They have things on there ranging from Fendi to Steve Madden at unbeleivable prices. Armed with your knowledge of the latest trends, which can be just a tab away on style.com, you can make trendy, cheap purchases without leaving the comfort of your living room.
I hope these suggestions help in your quest for stylish stardom. Don't be afraid- shopping is meant to be fun! Always find your style and it will be. The bottom line- fashion comes and goes, style is eternal. This is a famous qoute from somewhere, but it is always something that resonates with me. Find out what you are most comfortable, invest in great quality staples, and don't be afraid to sprinkle some inexpensive, trendy items in to keep you current. Happy shopping, everyone! If you need help, let me know!
Monday, April 26, 2010
A Smarter Way to Shop- Suggestions For Fashion, Home, and Accessories
If you know much about me you know I give up shopping at TJMaxx every year for Lent. It's no easy task for me- I go in the store at least once a week- and that's if I am being good! I have put myself on a budget there, which has significantly helped my spending and my relationship, but I still can't help but go in a look around. There are so many reasons to shop this magnificent store. I like it because of the amazingly low-priced deals I find, but also the variety it has packed inside. There are things from cooking supplies to dog outfits, peppercorns to bath mats, and furniture to self help books. Yoga seems to be a big thing at "my" store, but some other features include baby products like gates, car seats, and high-end strollers. Pay attention to tip 6 for my suggestions on how to deal with the different features of different stores.
Here are some of my note worthy finds: $5 Michael Kors tunic top, $30 Coach purse, $10 Juicy coin purse, $15-20 Calphalon pans, $15 Ugg slippers, $5 Nine West Black Pumps, $2 Betsey Johnson socks, $170 for two leather chairs, $ Betseyville purse, $5 sterling silver medium-sized ball earrings. I understand many people's sentiment, however- it's overwhelming to walk in the store. There is so much going on! Here are my suggestions on how to find the best deals without going crazy. A typical shopping trip should take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your store size.
Tip 1: Learn the layout of the store, where are all the departments located?
Tip 2: What are you in love with? For me, it's shoes, purses, house wears and kid's clothes. I don't bother shopping the in other sections unless I find myself bored and needing to waste time (which is surprisingly alot since I work about 2 minutes away from my favorite TJMaxx, and that's if there is alot of traffic.)
Tip 3: Buddy up to an associate. Since I'm in and out of the store more than most part time employees I have gotten to know some of the lifer's. They clue me in on when shipments are arriving and when they plan on doing mark downs.
Tip 4: I'm a mark down diva. Even when it comes in at 1/2 off the original price I wait to see if it will go down to $5 or $10. It may not always happen, so think about the highest price you would pay. Is that All-Clad 8 Quart pot worth $50 to you or do you want to gamble to see if it will go cheaper? If not, by all means, snatch it up.
Tip 5: I set a budget. I have $50 per month I can spend in "TJ." By setting this limit, and challenging myself with how much I can get for that amount, I am never disappointed with my finds. I get great labels for so inexpensive I can't help but brag about it!
Tip 6: Map out the other TJMaxx's in the area- is there more than one near you? Check them all out and determine which one you like the most. They will have similar stuff most of the time, but depending on the location, different things will go faster than others. There are also different buyers at each store so there may be somethings one place didn't pick up that another did. Once you find your favorite, go there often and follow the above tips. Visit the others as often as you want, but if you do your leg work in the beginning, you will find the location that fits your needs the best.
Here are some of my note worthy finds: $5 Michael Kors tunic top, $30 Coach purse, $10 Juicy coin purse, $15-20 Calphalon pans, $15 Ugg slippers, $5 Nine West Black Pumps, $2 Betsey Johnson socks, $170 for two leather chairs, $ Betseyville purse, $5 sterling silver medium-sized ball earrings. I understand many people's sentiment, however- it's overwhelming to walk in the store. There is so much going on! Here are my suggestions on how to find the best deals without going crazy. A typical shopping trip should take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your store size.
Tip 1: Learn the layout of the store, where are all the departments located?
Tip 2: What are you in love with? For me, it's shoes, purses, house wears and kid's clothes. I don't bother shopping the in other sections unless I find myself bored and needing to waste time (which is surprisingly alot since I work about 2 minutes away from my favorite TJMaxx, and that's if there is alot of traffic.)
Tip 3: Buddy up to an associate. Since I'm in and out of the store more than most part time employees I have gotten to know some of the lifer's. They clue me in on when shipments are arriving and when they plan on doing mark downs.
Tip 4: I'm a mark down diva. Even when it comes in at 1/2 off the original price I wait to see if it will go down to $5 or $10. It may not always happen, so think about the highest price you would pay. Is that All-Clad 8 Quart pot worth $50 to you or do you want to gamble to see if it will go cheaper? If not, by all means, snatch it up.
Tip 5: I set a budget. I have $50 per month I can spend in "TJ." By setting this limit, and challenging myself with how much I can get for that amount, I am never disappointed with my finds. I get great labels for so inexpensive I can't help but brag about it!
Tip 6: Map out the other TJMaxx's in the area- is there more than one near you? Check them all out and determine which one you like the most. They will have similar stuff most of the time, but depending on the location, different things will go faster than others. There are also different buyers at each store so there may be somethings one place didn't pick up that another did. Once you find your favorite, go there often and follow the above tips. Visit the others as often as you want, but if you do your leg work in the beginning, you will find the location that fits your needs the best.
Check out the crude floor plan of the TJMaxx I frequent the most. I put in the arrows to show you how I go about shopping this Heaven-on-Earth. Maybe this is similar to your floor plan and will make it less stressful shopping this discount department store. If not, I am more than happy to go shopping there for you and bring you back my finds! Just let me know!
My mode of attack (Skip sections based on what your in the mood for):
1. Purses
2. Shoes
3. House wears
4. Kids clothes
5. Books
6. Women's Clearance
7. Men's wear (Sorry, Billy!)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Quick Blankies, Runners, And Whatever Your Imagination Can Conceive
So I received a fabulous fabric kit with interesting instructions, which I pretty much scrapped, but was able to create and adapt for many other different projects. The kicker, it only takes about 10 minutes to do, with minimal supplies, and little sewing knowledge. I have used this to create so many different gifts! I just have to pass it on! here are the basic instructions and some suggested fabric cuts for different projects.
Step 1: Take the primary, smaller cut of fabric and match it, right sides together (that is, put the outer print that you want everyone to see down on the outer side of the second fabric so that the "ugly" side of the fabric is facing you.), with the right sides of the bottom, larger cut of fabric.
Step 2: Pin the short sides together and sew, leaving the longer sides open. This creates a tube of fabric. Turn the tube right sides out.
Step 3: Using a ruler or seam gauge, measure and iron the larger fabric so there are equal borders on both sides.
Step 4: Turn the fabric tube right sides together again and pin the long sides together this time, making sure to leave an opening on one end large enough for you to fit 4 fingers through that you do not sew shut. Sew the long sides excluding the opening.
Step 5: Using the opening you left turn the fabric project right sides out one last time. Iron flat and hand sew the opening closed using a quick stitch. Another option, if you hate hand sewing like I do, use some ironable hem tape (The kind you use to hold up your pant hem when the stitching comes out- but not staples or safety pins, which I know do the same things for your pant hems) and iron the opening shut. I haven't tried doing the whole project with hem tape yet but I'm sure you could manage it if you don't have a sewing machine.
Step 6: Step back, drink a glass of wine, and pat yourself on the back for being so crafty and done with a gift, decoration, or whatever in a matter of minutes!
So here are some suggestions for fabric measurements.
For a little baby blannkie- which perfect with a little satin and some minky fabric: one satin piece measuring 18"X21" (a fat quarter), a slightly larger piece of minky possibly 18"X26" or 23"X21".
For a table runner: The main fabric= 1/2 yard, the backing fabric= 3/4 yard. These measurements can change based on your table. Some may want it longer or shorter. Measure your table in terms of yards and determine what a 1/2 yard would look like on your table- do you like it? want it shorter/longer? Use a measuring tape or another runner to determine the length of what you want.
Advanced sewers or for anyone wanting a little challenge: Add ribbon, rick rack, or strings of beads to bring it the next level. During step 2 sandwich the decoration on the inside of the fabrics with the fancy part facing the inside of the tube and sew it when you stitch the sides together. When you turn the tube right sides out, make sure to iron the decoration to either the border or the inside main fabric according to your preference and continue with step 3. Not really couture advanced sewing but does create something amazing!
Let me know how this works out for you! I absolutely love how long it takes and how great it looks- and from what I've heard- everyone who's received it loves it too!
Step 1: Take the primary, smaller cut of fabric and match it, right sides together (that is, put the outer print that you want everyone to see down on the outer side of the second fabric so that the "ugly" side of the fabric is facing you.), with the right sides of the bottom, larger cut of fabric.
Step 2: Pin the short sides together and sew, leaving the longer sides open. This creates a tube of fabric. Turn the tube right sides out.
Step 3: Using a ruler or seam gauge, measure and iron the larger fabric so there are equal borders on both sides.
Step 4: Turn the fabric tube right sides together again and pin the long sides together this time, making sure to leave an opening on one end large enough for you to fit 4 fingers through that you do not sew shut. Sew the long sides excluding the opening.
Step 5: Using the opening you left turn the fabric project right sides out one last time. Iron flat and hand sew the opening closed using a quick stitch. Another option, if you hate hand sewing like I do, use some ironable hem tape (The kind you use to hold up your pant hem when the stitching comes out- but not staples or safety pins, which I know do the same things for your pant hems) and iron the opening shut. I haven't tried doing the whole project with hem tape yet but I'm sure you could manage it if you don't have a sewing machine.
Step 6: Step back, drink a glass of wine, and pat yourself on the back for being so crafty and done with a gift, decoration, or whatever in a matter of minutes!
So here are some suggestions for fabric measurements.
For a little baby blannkie- which perfect with a little satin and some minky fabric: one satin piece measuring 18"X21" (a fat quarter), a slightly larger piece of minky possibly 18"X26" or 23"X21".
For a table runner: The main fabric= 1/2 yard, the backing fabric= 3/4 yard. These measurements can change based on your table. Some may want it longer or shorter. Measure your table in terms of yards and determine what a 1/2 yard would look like on your table- do you like it? want it shorter/longer? Use a measuring tape or another runner to determine the length of what you want.
Advanced sewers or for anyone wanting a little challenge: Add ribbon, rick rack, or strings of beads to bring it the next level. During step 2 sandwich the decoration on the inside of the fabrics with the fancy part facing the inside of the tube and sew it when you stitch the sides together. When you turn the tube right sides out, make sure to iron the decoration to either the border or the inside main fabric according to your preference and continue with step 3. Not really couture advanced sewing but does create something amazing!
Let me know how this works out for you! I absolutely love how long it takes and how great it looks- and from what I've heard- everyone who's received it loves it too!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Today's Lesson- Cook with Your Kids
Today I had a very special day. I went, for the guise of work, to a charity event hosted by Cehf George Stella (As seen on the Food Network, The Insider, and so much more) regarding childhood obesity. It was the most fun I have had at work in a long time! Kids came in to create fruit kebabs, "spider" sandwiches, and dress up like chefs, complete with the coat and hat, and take pictures in front of a professional kitchen setting. Then, there was an "Iron Kids Chef Contest" where teams competed, making smoothies and pancakes, lob carb but just as tasty.
I never really thought about it, but today it was crystal clear, childhood obesity is at an all time high, and it is not the children's fault! If your child is clinically obeise, you are the reason. But you can also be the solution! Thanks to Chef Stella, there are so many easy changes you can make to cut back on carbs, fat, sugar, and anything else unhealthy. Here are some of my take-aways today;
~ Make pancakes with with ground flax-seed- you don't taste it in there but it adds a great healthy touch to the 'cake.
~ Substitute typical, sugar-laden syrup with honey! It's still sticky and delicious, but full of anti-oxidents and natural sugars actually good for you
~ Freeze your fruits and use non-fat yogurt to make smoothies. There is no need to add more sugar- the fruit and yogurt makes this smoothie sweet and delicious.
~ Use sugar-free EVERYTHING! From soda (if you have to have it), whip cream, and anything else you can think of.
~ It's all about presentation. No matter what you are doing, make it fun and look good, and kids will eat it and have fun too. The kids today did not care that they were eating healthy all afternoon- they had a blast playing with their food, making it fun, and being part of it all.
~ Which brings me to the last point- involve your kids in cooking. By making them feel included and part of the process they will appreciate the food more, and it will be less about what they are eating but rather how they felt while they were making it.
So, please, I am begging you all, be the solution for your children. These little babies are counting on US, no one else, to get them started right in life. It starts the minute you decide to become a parent and never ends. They rely on your nutrition in the womb, they watch everything you eat and do in the kitchen while they grow, they make choices based on your training in high school and college, and will begin their own training one day- let's make all that influence worth something. Why wouldn't you want to look back on your kids, grandkids, and hopefully if you're eating right, your great-grand kids with pride and know it was your choices that has enabled you all to be together and be healthy.
Just simple changes and substiutions and we Mom's can make the difference. Let's do it!
I never really thought about it, but today it was crystal clear, childhood obesity is at an all time high, and it is not the children's fault! If your child is clinically obeise, you are the reason. But you can also be the solution! Thanks to Chef Stella, there are so many easy changes you can make to cut back on carbs, fat, sugar, and anything else unhealthy. Here are some of my take-aways today;
~ Make pancakes with with ground flax-seed- you don't taste it in there but it adds a great healthy touch to the 'cake.
~ Substitute typical, sugar-laden syrup with honey! It's still sticky and delicious, but full of anti-oxidents and natural sugars actually good for you
~ Freeze your fruits and use non-fat yogurt to make smoothies. There is no need to add more sugar- the fruit and yogurt makes this smoothie sweet and delicious.
~ Use sugar-free EVERYTHING! From soda (if you have to have it), whip cream, and anything else you can think of.
~ It's all about presentation. No matter what you are doing, make it fun and look good, and kids will eat it and have fun too. The kids today did not care that they were eating healthy all afternoon- they had a blast playing with their food, making it fun, and being part of it all.
~ Which brings me to the last point- involve your kids in cooking. By making them feel included and part of the process they will appreciate the food more, and it will be less about what they are eating but rather how they felt while they were making it.
So, please, I am begging you all, be the solution for your children. These little babies are counting on US, no one else, to get them started right in life. It starts the minute you decide to become a parent and never ends. They rely on your nutrition in the womb, they watch everything you eat and do in the kitchen while they grow, they make choices based on your training in high school and college, and will begin their own training one day- let's make all that influence worth something. Why wouldn't you want to look back on your kids, grandkids, and hopefully if you're eating right, your great-grand kids with pride and know it was your choices that has enabled you all to be together and be healthy.
Just simple changes and substiutions and we Mom's can make the difference. Let's do it!
Friday, April 23, 2010
The beginning- How To Stock, And Keep Stocked, Your Pantry
So this is my first official post about bringing women something they can really do quickly and feel fullfilled about. Surprisingly I have a hard time thinking of a topic to cover first. What do people want to know about first to help make their lives easier? I have settled on cooking since I attended a training on it this morning at work (Ps I love my job!).
Have you ever started a recipe and realized you don't have one of the crucial, basic ingredients? This suggestion should help you know what to stock your pantry with, and how to keep track of if you need to replace an item.
There are always going to be things you need more often than others, like salt, pepper, flour, sugar, and olive oil. If you don't already have them in your pantry, you probably don't cook more than from a box or a delivery man.
Other top used items:
Parsley
Cornstartch
Baking Powder
Cooking Spray
Conola Oil/ Vegetable Oil
Garlic powder/salt
White vinegar (very handy for some many things other than cooking!)
Yeast
Shortening
Apple Cider Vinegar
Balsamicc vinegar
Oregano
Things to keep handy for times it may come up:
Yellow Cornmeal
Honey
Powdered Sugar
Oatmeal
Egg noodles
Minute Rice
Boxed desserts (Beleive me, surprise company comes over, you'll be glad you had something on hand)
Corn syrup
Ground cumin
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
Peppermint extract/ Almond extract (these add a great surprise flavor to recipes that normally call for vanilla, and make you look like a culinary goddess!)
A Variety of ground and dried herbs
Specialty items:
ANYTHINGS ELSE!
I like Sherry vinegar, seaseme oil, Rice vinegar, baking chocolate, various nuts, molasses, and bread crumbs.
This is not an all inclusive list, and it is only dealing with items that you should stock a pantry with, not refridgerator, but it is a great start. Of course, if you are particularly fond of a particular cuisine, like Asian, your ingredients may be a little different than mine. However, the real important part is next!
How do you keep track of it all? When something runs out, how do you remember to pick it up at the store the nexttime your out? Since these are the basics, you aren't buying them every week, like you would, say, eggs or milk. Here is a list of suggestions on what I have found to work for me and my friends and family.
1. Use your fridge. If you have a magnetic fridge (Damn stainless steel!)- use a magnetic pad of paper meant especially for your shopping list. With a hot glue gun, or other ingenuitive design, attach a pen to a string and the string to the pad. The key to this method- the pen hasto be attached. I have found that if it isn't, it won't be used. This saves time on searching for a pen or any writing utensil when something runs out- and we all know- you are just going to give up before you find it!
2. For you techies- download an App on your phone, use a computer memo pad, or write yourself a reminder in your calendar on your normal shopping day. Use a special coding or color to help distinguish it from other to-do's and it will hekp you remember the day of.
3. If you like the old-school daily planners- Get an extra insert for your book- or do like number two, and write it in on the normal shopping days. I don't have to explain the color-coding, since you have probably been doing this method since you were old enough to organize.
4. In general, organize your stuff. Have a place in your pantry where everything goes. For me, for instance, I have all my baking supplies (I.e. flour, sugar, baking soda, corn startch, honey, etc.) on the top shelf. On the second shelf is pasta and boxed, quickie desserts and meals. On the following shelf is snack food we all inevitably end up with even though we swear we didn't buy the last time we went shopping. On the last and bottom shelf are my zip lock bags, tin foil, and cling wrap. By having everything in spot I know every time, I can easily do a survey when prepping for a menu or recipe to know if I need to get something.
5. Clear, reusable storage containers are your friends, and if they have a place to temporarily write a name and date on them, you might become more than jsut friends. They do need to be CLEAR, however, since this is the key to this trick being successful. Put your flour, sugar, baking powder, and anything else you want in them (It can even work for liquids) and name and date them. This way you can visually see, quickly, what you have and how much of it you are packing. It may be more work on the front end- but beleive me, it beats being 1/2 way into a recipe, getting your groove on in the kitchen, only to press pause so you can run out for more sugar.
6. Keep the items you use most frequently close at hand and in plain site if at all possible. This way you will always be aware when things get low. Don't let things run out if you can help it. Always plan to buy it soon when you notice it getting low. By being proactive you will save a lot of heart ache and ruined pot roasts when you do this.
7. A white board or chalk board hung in your kitchen or prep area works too for keeping a list of things you need to buy, I loved when I had this giant chalk board, complete with a fat little chef on the side, to write down what I needed from the store. It was great for my roomate too, since she would write stuff up there she wanted so I would pick it up for her- great for people living together that have opposite schedules.
Well, I hope these tips help. I know they have helped me and my friends after the years of trial and error we put in. May you never run out of sugar, and may you oil always be full!
Let me know if this helps at all!
Have you ever started a recipe and realized you don't have one of the crucial, basic ingredients? This suggestion should help you know what to stock your pantry with, and how to keep track of if you need to replace an item.
There are always going to be things you need more often than others, like salt, pepper, flour, sugar, and olive oil. If you don't already have them in your pantry, you probably don't cook more than from a box or a delivery man.
Other top used items:
Parsley
Cornstartch
Baking Powder
Cooking Spray
Conola Oil/ Vegetable Oil
Garlic powder/salt
White vinegar (very handy for some many things other than cooking!)
Yeast
Shortening
Apple Cider Vinegar
Balsamicc vinegar
Oregano
Things to keep handy for times it may come up:
Yellow Cornmeal
Honey
Powdered Sugar
Oatmeal
Egg noodles
Minute Rice
Boxed desserts (Beleive me, surprise company comes over, you'll be glad you had something on hand)
Corn syrup
Ground cumin
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
Peppermint extract/ Almond extract (these add a great surprise flavor to recipes that normally call for vanilla, and make you look like a culinary goddess!)
A Variety of ground and dried herbs
Specialty items:
ANYTHINGS ELSE!
I like Sherry vinegar, seaseme oil, Rice vinegar, baking chocolate, various nuts, molasses, and bread crumbs.
This is not an all inclusive list, and it is only dealing with items that you should stock a pantry with, not refridgerator, but it is a great start. Of course, if you are particularly fond of a particular cuisine, like Asian, your ingredients may be a little different than mine. However, the real important part is next!
How do you keep track of it all? When something runs out, how do you remember to pick it up at the store the nexttime your out? Since these are the basics, you aren't buying them every week, like you would, say, eggs or milk. Here is a list of suggestions on what I have found to work for me and my friends and family.
1. Use your fridge. If you have a magnetic fridge (Damn stainless steel!)- use a magnetic pad of paper meant especially for your shopping list. With a hot glue gun, or other ingenuitive design, attach a pen to a string and the string to the pad. The key to this method- the pen hasto be attached. I have found that if it isn't, it won't be used. This saves time on searching for a pen or any writing utensil when something runs out- and we all know- you are just going to give up before you find it!
2. For you techies- download an App on your phone, use a computer memo pad, or write yourself a reminder in your calendar on your normal shopping day. Use a special coding or color to help distinguish it from other to-do's and it will hekp you remember the day of.
3. If you like the old-school daily planners- Get an extra insert for your book- or do like number two, and write it in on the normal shopping days. I don't have to explain the color-coding, since you have probably been doing this method since you were old enough to organize.
4. In general, organize your stuff. Have a place in your pantry where everything goes. For me, for instance, I have all my baking supplies (I.e. flour, sugar, baking soda, corn startch, honey, etc.) on the top shelf. On the second shelf is pasta and boxed, quickie desserts and meals. On the following shelf is snack food we all inevitably end up with even though we swear we didn't buy the last time we went shopping. On the last and bottom shelf are my zip lock bags, tin foil, and cling wrap. By having everything in spot I know every time, I can easily do a survey when prepping for a menu or recipe to know if I need to get something.
5. Clear, reusable storage containers are your friends, and if they have a place to temporarily write a name and date on them, you might become more than jsut friends. They do need to be CLEAR, however, since this is the key to this trick being successful. Put your flour, sugar, baking powder, and anything else you want in them (It can even work for liquids) and name and date them. This way you can visually see, quickly, what you have and how much of it you are packing. It may be more work on the front end- but beleive me, it beats being 1/2 way into a recipe, getting your groove on in the kitchen, only to press pause so you can run out for more sugar.
6. Keep the items you use most frequently close at hand and in plain site if at all possible. This way you will always be aware when things get low. Don't let things run out if you can help it. Always plan to buy it soon when you notice it getting low. By being proactive you will save a lot of heart ache and ruined pot roasts when you do this.
7. A white board or chalk board hung in your kitchen or prep area works too for keeping a list of things you need to buy, I loved when I had this giant chalk board, complete with a fat little chef on the side, to write down what I needed from the store. It was great for my roomate too, since she would write stuff up there she wanted so I would pick it up for her- great for people living together that have opposite schedules.
Well, I hope these tips help. I know they have helped me and my friends after the years of trial and error we put in. May you never run out of sugar, and may you oil always be full!
Let me know if this helps at all!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Becoming the Next Martha- This Generation Needs a SomeoneThey Can Relate To!
I read a very interesting article on Fox News about the next Martha Stewart’s and, armed with that information and my own appreciation and admiration of the woman and legend, I have set a course for striving to accomplish what she has done. She is crafty, talented, business minded, and a people person above all, yet she does provide a glimpse into her life that few will ever really acheive. What this generation needs is someone they can relate to and actually use the advice being doled out. This is the hole I wish to fill.
Working women need someone who knows what it is like to have a job and family to support with a creative and entertaining streak burning to be released! I say it can be! There is no need to quit your day job to spend time making your house beautiful, cook a fabulous meal, be creative with your projects, entertain friends and family, grow a beautiful garden, and look stunning at the same time. We are women after all, we can do anything once we put our minds to it!
Let’s give this generation what they need. Let’s bring easy, affordable, fast projects, tips, and tricks to the world so working women can stand on their own and shout, “I can be fabulous without breaking the bank or wasting my precious free time. Bring on the dinner parties and vegetable gardens, I can do it!”
That is what this blog is about- providing people (not just women) with tips and tricks I have learned from being a full time employee, mom, and finace. Check in daily for new suggestions covering a variety of topics to help you let loose your creative side!
Working women need someone who knows what it is like to have a job and family to support with a creative and entertaining streak burning to be released! I say it can be! There is no need to quit your day job to spend time making your house beautiful, cook a fabulous meal, be creative with your projects, entertain friends and family, grow a beautiful garden, and look stunning at the same time. We are women after all, we can do anything once we put our minds to it!
Let’s give this generation what they need. Let’s bring easy, affordable, fast projects, tips, and tricks to the world so working women can stand on their own and shout, “I can be fabulous without breaking the bank or wasting my precious free time. Bring on the dinner parties and vegetable gardens, I can do it!”
That is what this blog is about- providing people (not just women) with tips and tricks I have learned from being a full time employee, mom, and finace. Check in daily for new suggestions covering a variety of topics to help you let loose your creative side!
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