tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56733744276124858662024-03-13T20:28:21.160+00:00Mint & VanillaMint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-67763080851458805282015-06-23T21:43:00.001+01:002015-06-23T21:43:46.717+01:00New HouseSo, yesterday we got the keys to our first house! It's a lovely 1920s end of terrace which needs some work (but hopefully not too much...).<br />
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We are hoping to move out of our rented flat in a week and a half so we've got lots to do before then! Currently there is Artex everywhere! The kitchen is tiny so we're planning an extension for next year or the year after, whenever we can save the money by!<br />
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Here are the before photos:<br />
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Sitting Room</div>
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Hallway</div>
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Dining Room</div>
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Tiny Kitchen</div>
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Bathroom</div>
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Guest Room/Craft Room/Study</div>
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Computer Room</div>
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Main Bedroom</div>
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Landing</div>
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Cupboard under the stairs</div>
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Garden</div>
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Front</div>
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Artex!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-61307998360286091492015-01-05T18:49:00.000+00:002015-03-01T18:00:52.025+00:00Sugarfree Chocolate GranolaI recently got into making my own granola and I am completely converted. It's really easy and quick and it's delicious! It's not super cheap, but it is still cheaper than the nice granola at the supermarket (it just doesn't last long in my house because it's so yummy I eat it at every chance I get!).<br />
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I googled a bit and read through a few different recipes, then I experimented and adjusted them until I was happy with it so feel free to play around with this recipe.<br />
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This makes about 1kg of granola depending on the exact amounts you use. It only lasts me about 5 days so I tend to do 1.5x or double it.<br />
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<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
(apart from the oats and oil most of these ingredients are optional, and all ingredients can be substituted, e.g. another grain instead of oats, different spices etc. you could also add chocolate chips to make it extra yummy but of course it would then not be sugar free...)<br />
4 cups oats<br />
1/2 or 1 cup chopped nuts<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 cup seeds<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 tsp nutmeg'<br />
1 tsp ginger<br />
1/4 cup cocoa powder<br />
1/2 cup honey<br />
1/2 cup oil (I use olive oil)<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 1/2 cups dried fruit (larger fruits chopped)<br />
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<u>Method:</u><br />
1. Mix oats, nuts, seeds, salt, spices and cocoa powder in a large bowl<br />
2. Add honey, oil and vanilla, mix until evenly distributed<br />
3. Spread out on lined baking trays (not too thick or it will take ages to bake)<br />
4. Bake in the oven for 45 mins -1 hour on a low heat (about 150 C) stirring occasionally.<br />
5. Wait to cool then stir in dried fruit and store in an airtight container<br />
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Then ENJOY! (I'm off to eat some granola right now, writing this has made me hungry for granola!)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-82530517264363022562014-12-04T21:09:00.002+00:002014-12-04T21:09:18.031+00:00Cheap and Easy Christmas Ornaments DIYIt's December, and that means CHRISTMAS!<br />
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I LOVE Christmas. Last year was the first year I had my own flat (without flatmates) to decorate. We also were a bit tight on money so I made these DIY ornaments to go on my first full sized Christmas tree (I already had quite a few ornaments as my mum has been gradually building up my collection in my stocking each year since I was about 10 - yes, I still have stockings!).</div>
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<b>Toilet Roll Stars / Flowers</b><br />
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I saw these on Pinterest and decided to make them. They're super simple, just cut a toilet roll into 5 strips, flatten them a bit, glue together (hold it with pegs), paint ( I used gold and silver poster paint that I found in my mum's supplies from when we were kids!) and sprinkle with glitter. I then sprayed mine with hairspray to seal them a bit but that's optional.</div>
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<b>Mini Bottles of Glitter</b><br />
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These were inspired by a necklace tutorial I saw. I found the bottles in a local pound shop. I think they are so cute and I'd wanted to buy them for ages so when I saw the tutorial I finally had an excuse to! I filled them with glitter (I made a funnel with paper to help with this), put the stoppers in and tied green wool around them to hang them on the tree. I bought two different types of glitter, the larger flaky one is from the pound shop and the normal one was from Wilkos. Although the pound shop one doesn't really look like proper glitter, I quite like the effect.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-64404336697589692332014-09-18T19:21:00.002+01:002014-09-18T19:21:31.635+01:00Organising the ExpeditOver the summer holidays I had a bit of a drive to make the flat prettier and more organised. I finally got around to tidying up the massive Expedit we have in the living room. Since we moved in (nearly a year ago) it has been a dumping ground for anything that didn't have a home elsewhere. That was not an ideal solution as it was on full show in our main living space. I had been feeling a little overwhelmed by trying to sort it but when I got started it was actually pretty quick and easy.<br />
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Unfortunately I don't have a before photo (I am so bad at remembering to take those!) but just imagine a jumble of random things, no organisation, no coordination etc.<br />
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And now it looks like this, tada:<br />
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In terms of how I went about tackling a daunting organisation project, I decided to make a list! I wrote a big list of all the things we had stored in the 3 areas I was tackling (under the stairs, the Expedit and the spare room cupboard) and then I marked which would fit in the Expedit, where each thing was mostly used and whether it was pretty or not (the last was a criteria for most of the items on the Expedit as it is on show and the other storage areas are not). From this I decided which things to store where and could then organise each area.<br />
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I have known for a while that I would like the living room colour scheme to be based around this blanket that I bought from Primark a couple of years ago (as much as I can control the colour scheme in our rented flat on almost no budget). I absolutely LOVE this blanket, I wear it all winter and it is so pretty as well as warm!<br />
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I thought that I wouldn't be able to style the Expedit with the right colours but then I realised that these boxes that I already had tie in nicely with the red, as does my knitting bag. That gave me enough inspiration to try to make it work with the colour scheme and I think I succeeded (I don't like things to be too matchy-matchy).<br />
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I made cut some paper to go inside the clear drawers I store our first aid in (that took a bit of trial and error to get the right shape). I didn't have nice paper with red or navy tones in it so I went with some pink patterns that are close enough for now. I might change them at some point to fit better.<br />
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I also found this tissue box at Aldi which I think is really cute and was the perfect colours. And I added that pink box that had been hanging around in a cupboard (little secret: the box doesn't have anything in at the moment, it's just there cos it looks nice and to fill up a cubby!).<br />
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I'll post about the transformation of my magazine files soon.<br />
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The only thing left now is to find some nice fabric to cover the boxes at the bottom. That will have to wait for a trip to Walthamstow I think...<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-263345344347861222014-09-08T20:34:00.003+01:002014-09-08T20:34:46.202+01:005:2 Tips and Tricks<br />
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Fasting isn't easy. As much as I love the 5:2 diet and what it does for my waist-line and my health, I don't always (or often!) love the fasting days. It can be really hard, but there are some tricks that will help you get through the day.<br />
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Tips:<br />
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<li>Water, water, water - drink as much water as you can, it fills your stomach and keeps you hydrated, it can also distract you from wanting to eat. For flavour you can add some mint leaves or a small amount of lemon juice.</li>
<li>Tea - if you can't drink any more water, tea is good. Strictly it should be black or herbal but I do often have tea with skimmed milk and ignore the calories (naughty I know, but it's only a few calories!). Find a herbal tea you like (I like mint green, or peppermint or camomile) for some variety. I also like to make fresh mint tea with mint from the garden, this makes a nice ice tea too for summer fasting days.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEghaeZd7q67R8KISzhlvSiFPre0ZwCXtq27I9CHkxs_w34HNg0zOI2TTa2A8z5EU3LXuKXlycDBGIGLsl7Tw-xG0ACnL5kcHIxfMxNYCQB9dRunFXtDXB60NhXQL3v57D-5xiiQ3qG1F1MrvPXegen-csiYQLSQ9p_rDoqe47PU5g8=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://img2.timeinc.net/health/images/slides/mint-tea-400x400.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>
<li>Fizzy drinks - not the ones full of sugar, plain fizzy water is good if you like it as it seems to fill you up a bit more than still water. I don't like plain fizzy water so I have it with some no added sugar squash. If I'm really struggling, like if I have a long day or am being extra active, I might treat myself to a diet coke.</li>
<li>Although it feels counter-intuitive, I find fasting a lot easier if I don't eat much the night before. It's very tempting to stuff yourself the evening before a fasting day but I find a small dinner and no snacks after really helps. I am much less hungry the next day and hardly notice that I'm fasting.</li>
<li>If none of the above work and you're really suffering, eat something low calorie. There's no point killing yourself over this. If you can, take the calories from a later meal, but if you have to go over your 500 (or 600 for men, lucky things!) it's not the end of the world. The book suggests that you shouldn't regularly go even a few calories over but I think that even if I end up eating a couple of hundred more calories (I very rarely do) then I'm still eating a LOT less than on a normal day, and I've still had my 16 hours fasting period.</li>
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Things to remember:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Hunger comes and goes so try to ignore it or drink one of the above and it should go away within an hour, I find my hunger patterns are the same on fasting and non-fasting days, I just don't get to satisfy them by eating on a fasting day</li>
<li>YOU CAN EAT TOMORROW!!! I find this really helps, especially when it gets towards the end of the day when I'm most hungry. Once it's evening, it feels like I've nearly succeeded so it's a waste to give in and it's only a few hours until I can eat (not counting the hours I'm asleep as I'm not conscious of hunger then!)</li>
<li>Be flexible - 5:2 is a lifestyle rather than a quick fix diet, so it needs to fit your life. I have 2 standard days (Monday and Thursday) but often move one or both to fit around my week. I also miss days if I can't fit them around what I'm doing or if I'm on holiday. Sometimes I do half days where I fast until the evening then have a normal meal (for example if I am going out for a meal and can't move my day). I have been known to do a normal fast day and then eat a cupcake in the evening (I had to test them to check they were edible!).</li>
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If possible, it's probably best to be as strict as you can manage for the first month or so whilst you get used to it, but then, be flexible. If you are fasting 2 days a week, every week, an extra few calories every now and then, or a missed day, isn't going to be a problem.<br />
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Here are some of my go-to meals for fasting days. I don't like to cook much on a fasting day, I prefer a quick, easy meal but I do like some variety and over the year I've been on 5:2 I've built up quite a repertoire of fasting-friendly meals. I wouldn't really call these 'recipes' as most don't involve much preparation or cooking.<br />
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I tend to skip breakfast, have about 100 calories for lunch, sometimes a 50 calorie afternoon snack and the rest of my calories for dinner. If this isn't how you like to fast, just adapt it to work for you. Most of these meals can be added to or cut down to fit your requirements.<br />
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<b>Lunches (approx. 100 calories)</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>a carrot (41 calories per 100g) and a fromage frais (47 calories)</li>
<li>3 cream crackers (33 calories each)</li>
<li>a mushroom (4 calories) and a low fat yoghurt (100 calories)</li>
<li>a small apple (60 calories) and a low fat cheese triangle (25 calories)</li>
<li>salad - mix and match what you like, some of my ingredients are: grated carrot (40 calories), lettuce (5 calories), tomato (18 calories) extra light mayonnaise (11 calories), frozen peas (13 calories for 20g), frozen sweetcorn (17 calories for 20g), beetroot (19 calories for 50g)</li>
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<b>Dinners</b><br />
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<li>Soup with 1 slice of toast - homemade soups can be about 100 calories (fresh or frozen veg boiled in water with 1/4 stock cube and you can add some low fat yoghurt when serving), tinned are usually around 200 calories for the whole tin, bread is about 100 calories a slice</li>
<li>Wrap pizzas - low fat wrap (weight watchers are around 100 calories), spread with tomato puree, top with any veg you like (I usually have red pepper, onion, sweetcorn and spinach but anything you like) then 30g of low fat mozarella, bake for about 10 mins</li>
<li>Porridge - maybe an odd choice for dinner but I love porridge and this one fills you up nicely, 60g of oats made with water, a splash of skimmed milk and 3 teaspoons of skinny hot chocolate is about 250 calories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>Stir fry - the value range stir fry packs from supermarkets are about 30 calories per 100g. I have 200g veg with 50g noodles (about 160 calories) and a teaspoon of soy sauce (22 calories) = 244 calories</li>
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<li>Salad - see above in lunch but to add a few calories for dinner I sometimes have chickpeas (50g = 60 calories), or low fat cheese (calories depend on which type but usually about 70 calories per serving) or low fat hummous (50g = 120 calories)</li>
<li>Baked sweet potato (86 calories for 100g) with sour cream (1 tablespoon = about 40 calories)</li>
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Desserts</b><br />
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<li>Low fat yoghurt (50 calories per 100g) with one of: small apple (50 calories), raisins (42 calories for 14g), honey (50 calories per tablespoon)</li>
<li>Biscuit - the following biscuits are all around 50 calories each: value chocolate chip cookie, jaffa cake, custard cream, bourbon</li>
<li>Skinny hot chocolate (40 calories)</li>
<li>3 squares of chocolate (100 calories) - I don't really recommend this as I find it tends to make me want more and feel hungrier but if you're really craving chocolate....</li>
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<b>Snacks</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>small clementine (about 20 calories)</li>
<li>yoghurt tube (40 calories)</li>
<li>fruit compote (baby food pots or pouches - 50-70 calories) </li>
<li>popcorn (air-popped, 31 calories per cup) with salt or small amount of sugar</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-75492577889844747102014-06-26T22:03:00.000+01:002014-06-28T22:52:56.851+01:00Easy Peasy Lined SkirtI finally made a skirt! Actually, this is the second skirt I've ever made - the only item of clothing I have ever made for myself is a skirt I made when I was about 15 (I still have it!), I keep meaning to actually get on and make some clothes for myself but somehow baby/toddler clothes and house-y stuff always seems so much more achievable!<br />
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So, back to the skirt. I made this for my niece but the pattern is super simple and could be made for any size. I used some cute nautical theme fabric that I bought last year for a (failed) attempt at at a romper for her. Sorry about the photos, I took them on my phone as my camera charger has disappeared...)</div>
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Materials</div>
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Fabric</div>
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Lining fabric (if you want to line it)</div>
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Wide elastic (I used 1" elastic for a toddler, you might want wider for an adult)</div>
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Thread</div>
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Cut matching rectangles from your main and lining fabric. The width depends on how gathered you want it, for stiffer fabrics/if you're using lining you'll want it to be less gathered. I just used what I had left from my main fabric which I think was about 80cm wide (my niece's waist is 49cm so it was about 1.6x her waist). The height should be however long you want your skirt plus enough to fold over your elastic (so I added about 3 inches to mine for that) and to hem (I did a large hem so that it can be lengthened as she grows but for an adult just add a couple of cm).</div>
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Fold both rectangles right sides together (for the lining right sides together means the side that you want to be able to see on the inside). Place one on top of the other and sew down the open edge. (It's a bit hard to see in this picture sorry!)</div>
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Turn the main fabric right side out, over the lining so that you end up with a tube with the main fabric on the outside and and lining inside. This is the bit where you check you have everything in the right place!</div>
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Turn the skirt inside out and iron down a small hem on the top edge and then fold down again to create a casing for your elastic. Sew around this, leaving a small gap.<br />
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Thread your elastic through this gap and round the casing using a safety pin (or however you like). I like to do this before I cut the elastic but you can measure and cut first.<br />
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Pull the elastic tight until it is just shorter than your waist measurement and cut. Sew the ends together (I overlapped the ends and sewed at both sides of the overlap so that it can be let out as she grows). Sew up the gap.</div>
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At the bottom of the skirt, fold over the edge twice, iron and hem. I handstitched the hem but you can machine it if you prefer.<br />
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And now you should have a beautiful skirt : )<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-89518024242478547012014-05-14T20:23:00.002+01:002014-06-28T22:53:07.218+01:00Living 5:2So, I know this isn't really related to what we usually post about but I've been doing the 5:2 diet for nearly 10 months now and I wanted to share a few tips and recipes I've learned and also a bit about what it's like. I've decided to do this over several posts as I started to write it and it got REALLY long! So, this first post is general stuff, then I will do one on recipes and one on tips for getting through a fasting day.<br />
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So here's an overview of my experience on 5:2:<br />
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First of all, <b>weight loss:</b> I've lost about 6kg since I started. It might not sound like much to some people but I didn't have very much to lose (my BMI has dropped from 23 to 20.8). I'm happy with where I am now.<br />
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<b>Health: </b>Although I initially did go on the diet to lose weight (I had been struggling to shift the couple of kgs by exercising and eating healthily), I was also interested in the health benefits. There are lots of claims about how it's good for all sorts of things (best check out the <a href="http://thefastdiet.co.uk/" target="_blank">official website</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Fast-Diet-Intermittent-Fasting/dp/1780721676" target="_blank">book</a>, I'm no doctor...). I can't measure most of them and I didn't really have any previous health problems but I do feel better on the diet. I also feel like I can eat healthy fatty foods on my feast days without worrying about putting on weight, which means I can focus more on getting the right nutrients instead of counting calories or grams of fat.<br />
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<b>Psychological:</b> I feel better for having a break from eating a couple of times a week. If I overindulge at all at the weekend, or at a meal out or anywhere (which, to be fair, happens a LOT) then I don't feel so bad knowing I'll be fasting the next day or soon after. I feel like my body gets a break and gets to clear out.<br />
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<b>Exercise:</b> I often go to the gym, swim or cycle on fasting days, I don't notice any difference really.<br />
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<b>Side-effects:</b> For a few weeks I felt nauseous on my fasting days. I don't know why that was, and I couldn't find much information about others feeling the same but I found that fizzy drinks or tea sometimes helped and I was fine the next day. It has now stopped happening, but I don't know why.... I think sometimes I'm more irritable on fasting days. I work with kids and sometimes I think I have less tolerance when I'm fasting but it's hard to measure. By the evening, I'm more likely to be short-tempered but I think if you recognise why it helps to alleviate it.<br />
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<b>Fitting it into life: </b>It might sound a bit cliched but I do see 5:2 as a lifestyle, at least for this stage of my life (I think it might be hard to do it if you had to cook for and feed children on fasting days). As it's a lifestyle, I am not always strict about it but I do try to stick to it when possible. If I miss a day, or if I eat a few more calories, or even a cupcake, it's not the end of the world. I'll be fasting again in a few days and the majority of the time, I do it properly. Sometimes I fast until evening and then eat a normal meal (if I'm going out for a meal for instance). Basically, I make it fit around my life. Whenever I can (unless I'm on holiday!) I fast properly, but if it's inconvenient, I don't worry about breaking the rules for a day.<br />
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<b>Coping:</b> I know some people struggle with 5:2. In my family, 5 of us have tried it, 2 of us do it properly now and 1 does 'fasting days' but I'm pretty sure he doesn't count calories! I found the first day I tried easier than I expected. I was surprised with how much I could eat of some things (and how little of others!). The second day was the hardest I think, then after that it got easier. Now, some days are harder than others but I know I can do it, and I know I can eat tomorrow.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-83102077741468332302014-05-07T14:30:00.000+01:002014-06-28T22:53:23.152+01:00Pretty PaperworkI've been wanting a letter tray for a while now. Bank statements, pay slips, bills and other bits of paper get left on our dining table all the time. I wanted somewhere to put paper while it waited to be sorted or filed... and six months later I finally got around to making this:<br />
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It's not perfect but it's a lot cheaper than the pretty ones you get in shops (in fact it was free as I already had everything I needed) and it's a lot prettier than either a cardboard box (which is what it is, essentially) or the cheap ones you can find in pound shops (still more expensive than making this!).<br />
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So, here's how I did it.<br />
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First I cut one side off a cereal box so I had a tray shape and flat piece of card board. Then I used the spare cardboard from the open end of the box to make little 'L' shaped supports and stuck the flat piece into the box to make a second tray using a glue gun (I know that sounds confusing but the pictures should hopefully make it clear!).<br />
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Next I covered the top, sides and a bit of the inside with some pretty wrapping paper. I used a mixture of about half and half PVA glue and water for this. I didn't bother to cover the bottom or right inside the lower tray and it won't ever be seen but you could if you wanted to be thorough. If you want to cover the inside of the lower tray, I would suggest doing this before you stick the upper tray in.<br />
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I then left the tray to dry for 24 hours before coating it all over with the glue and water mix. I did this twice leaving it to dry 24 hours each time. And that's it. Now I have a pretty letter tray to put all my un-organised paperwork in!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-76130063458143807292014-05-02T15:35:00.000+01:002014-06-28T22:53:38.783+01:0015 Minute Basket Rain CoverNow it's spring and I've fixed up an old bike, I'm intending to cycle more (we'll see how that goes...). British spring weather (or in fact, all-year round weather), however, means that I need my bike basket to be shower-proof. I got this very useful basket last year and it's great, it clips on and off easily and holds a good amount whilst being very light-weight. Although the main basket is made of a shower-proof canvas, the top is just a thin fabric drawstring so I decided to make a cover for it. This is really simple and quick (and probably not very durable but it will do for light use). It took me about 15 minutes including collecting the materials from around the house and tidying up!<br />
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What you need:<br />
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<li>Large plastic bag (I used a bag for life one)</li>
<li>Elastic</li>
<li>Sewing machine with coordinating thread</li>
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My basket has a detachable hoop at the top so I took this off to draw round it, if your's doesn't, just turn your basket upside down and draw around it onto the inside of your plastic bag (there should be a few cm spare all around it, otherwise you need a bigger bag!)</div>
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Next cut out your bag leaving a few cm around your line. You can measure and draw another line to be exact but I just did it by eye. </div>
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I then realised that the sharpie line could be seen from the other side of the bag, so I wiped it off with some nail varnish remover.</div>
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Next sew your elastic around the edge of your circle using a long zig-zig stitch and stretching the elastic as you go.</div>
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Put on your basket and you're ready for a rainy day!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-61373796480157576622014-04-26T14:18:00.000+01:002014-06-28T22:53:49.396+01:00Cheap and Easy Hand-Wash UpgradeI've been wanting a nice handwash dispenser for a while but I just haven't got around to finding one. Recently I bought a <a href="http://www.tesco.com/groceries/Product/Details/?id=275849099" target="_blank">Tesco Value hand soap</a> for the bathroom and I realised that if I pulled the label off it would just be a nice plain white bottle. Then I thought to decorate it with Sharpies to match the toothpaste mug I have.<br />
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I think it looks really sweet now and it was basically a free project as the soap was the cheapest I could get anyway to have in the bathroom (and it smells really nice!) and I already had the coloured Sharpies It was really easy to do, if you go wrong, you can wipe it off with some nail varnish remover. I'm not sure whether it will last, it might fade or rub off with use but if it does I can clean if off and put another design on.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-15393132143123766032014-04-20T13:18:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:54:42.587+01:00Happy Easter and A Mini Easter CraftHappy Easter! I hope you're all enjoying lots of yummy chocolate today!<br />
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I am actually home alone until this afternoon so I decided to make some little Easter baskets and fill them with chocolate for my boyfriend and sister. They only took a few minutes each and they look so cute!<br />
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I used <a href="http://cosmocricket.typepad.com/cosmo_cricket/2013/03/tutorial-diy-paper-easter-baskets.html" target="_blank">this tutorial</a>, but made them a bit smaller and I didn't bother with covering all the staples, I just used some pretty washi tape to cover them on the outside and left them showing on the inside (the chocolates cover them anyway and I don't plan to keep them to use again). The card I used was some pretty stripy card left over from some packaging on something I got ages ago.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-3081978531536163282014-02-19T13:19:00.000+00:002014-06-28T22:55:02.637+01:00Babushka Doll Peg BagThis was my Christmas present to my mum. I was inspired by <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/203506476885989600/" target="_blank">this pin</a>, which I thought was really cute but although I thought my mum would like it, I didn't think she'd LOVE it and I couldn't help but think that I could probably make one shaped like a Russian Doll, and my mum LOVES Russian Dolls, so I had to try! (Sorry for the lack of photos, I didn't start taking them until I had all the pieces ready)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_O-VXkilXtrpXne4I7fJf3P2mC4xAWZmJYIPTvvi0HRjOlR8Z-2JihFjk_lNYM_Es9EjTmaYUVVEErzf9suqU9yUyaU9Ktf8ojtcApUM22Syd1xwhFe0Jpn-onh2Y3o0BTlL2sN9VhNLJ/s1600/IMG_1072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_O-VXkilXtrpXne4I7fJf3P2mC4xAWZmJYIPTvvi0HRjOlR8Z-2JihFjk_lNYM_Es9EjTmaYUVVEErzf9suqU9yUyaU9Ktf8ojtcApUM22Syd1xwhFe0Jpn-onh2Y3o0BTlL2sN9VhNLJ/s1600/IMG_1072.JPG" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
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<u>Materials</u><br />
Main fabric<br />
Lining fabric<br />
Filler fabric<br />
Wire coat hanger<br />
Felt (face colour and hair colour)<br />
Embroidery thread (for face details - I used black and red)<br />
Paper for making the pattern (I used newspaper)<br />
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To make the pattern I just drew round a cereal bowl for the head and then drew the body freehand. When I cut it out I folded it in half length-ways to make sure it was symmetrical. Now that I have finished it, I think it would actually be better bigger. It turned out smaller than I'd intended even though I put in generous seam allowances so I would suggest making it even bigger (my pattern measured about 39cm by 27cm).<br />
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From the pattern I cut out 2 pieces of the main fabric, 2 pieces of lining fabric and 2 pieces of another stiff fabric I had for strengthening (you could use any spare fabric or interfacing or batting for this, it's just to give it a bit more bulk and help it to hold it's shape when it is hung).<br />
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I then cut the top off my pattern in a kind of extended 'w' shape to make the pattern for the headscarf (see photo below) and cut one of these from another fabric. I hemmed the bottom of this (the 'w' shaped bit) as this would not be sewn to the main piece.<br />
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I cut a circle from some skin coloured felt, sewed on some felt hair and embroidered a face on it. After testing out a few faces on paper I decided on a very simple closed eyes and a small smiling mouth. Anything more looked a bit silly but you might be able to pull it off if you're better at drawing and embroidering than me!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3r8DfviEDETgtci4pGACnCyIbOjarbThVFVoP7w2TqiS3hdWi7j81ZWf-dILRUfNGZkmRDx63az5JHLrSLTEplEC7XnRC93d-LxAFY3gX9GzasPQ8_ro7azrqMZA7bKMaqBdZi6qF0ey/s1600/IMG_1066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3r8DfviEDETgtci4pGACnCyIbOjarbThVFVoP7w2TqiS3hdWi7j81ZWf-dILRUfNGZkmRDx63az5JHLrSLTEplEC7XnRC93d-LxAFY3gX9GzasPQ8_ro7azrqMZA7bKMaqBdZi6qF0ey/s1600/IMG_1066.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Once the face was done, I sewed it onto my scarf fabric (I centered the face at this point but it did end up a bit wonky by the end so you could leave the face until the very end and sew it on there to make sure it is in the right place (or you could be better than me at sewing even hems...).<br />
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I pinned pieces for the front of the bag together (lining fabric, then filler fabric, then main fabric then scarf) and cut the slot for the pegs. I then hemmed this. You can add binding but I decided I liked mine as it was and with the stripy fabric I thought binding wouldn't look good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwW2Eh4pto2lXFulRJfK-chvfFjtxbCrvkk65HZmYU10g2zQi9nEvVT3bygUhJjfYjanSy4kKDgpZwyj0Cqge6dBTFKfpfXSl0iO5_q6S7NQXJA9WfJET7gUtFThEYtJufwLHE9dHYVgt/s1600/IMG_1068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwW2Eh4pto2lXFulRJfK-chvfFjtxbCrvkk65HZmYU10g2zQi9nEvVT3bygUhJjfYjanSy4kKDgpZwyj0Cqge6dBTFKfpfXSl0iO5_q6S7NQXJA9WfJET7gUtFThEYtJufwLHE9dHYVgt/s1600/IMG_1068.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Next, I layered up the back of the bag (lining, filler and main fabric) and sewed together the front and the back, right sides facing. Start and end at the top of the head and leave a small opening for the hanger to go through. I then used pinking shears to trim the hem to stop it fraying. Turn the bag right way out through the peg slot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPBW4FhfVnNMCqcq7IdGrB1t54AqMeFvxpzvhOkhjRcyWFPgtBCsUHlHdYBCTTiiynKsWRsqWFDeM5MuN9xpgqkOGgtI_JSKOaHn1m-xX6CbT_ZrWDAun16oKa4oRFnrY-ieOA9Wgq8fT/s1600/IMG_1070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPBW4FhfVnNMCqcq7IdGrB1t54AqMeFvxpzvhOkhjRcyWFPgtBCsUHlHdYBCTTiiynKsWRsqWFDeM5MuN9xpgqkOGgtI_JSKOaHn1m-xX6CbT_ZrWDAun16oKa4oRFnrY-ieOA9Wgq8fT/s1600/IMG_1070.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />
Finally, cut a wire hanger and bend it to shape so that it will go round the edge of the head and shoulders of your bag inside, then just slip it inside through the peg slot and you have a Babushka Peg Bag!<br />
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Also, my mum did LOVE it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-20421451456154123042014-01-26T16:25:00.002+00:002014-06-28T22:55:20.823+01:00My Neice's Very Own Quiet Book<div class="MsoNormal">
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<br />
The Quiet Book I made for my niece’s Christmas present was
my major Christmas project. I started it in October and only finished it just
before Christmas. It took many many hours of work and also cost quite a bit in
materials (despite using lots of fabric I already had). But it was worth it I
think. I am very proud of it (despite it being far from perfect) and she is enjoying a lot it and hopefully will do for years to come (I plan to update the pages as
she gets older).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, first of all, here is my Quiet Book.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Playdough shape matching page</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
There is one of each shape in each colour</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Face making page</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
There are about 3 different eyes, noses and mouths, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
she can make happy, sad and angry faces to help with</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
her emotional understanding</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Aliens Love Underpants page</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
The aliens are hiding behind bushes and the pants can</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
be taken off the washing line and stuck on any alien</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This is just a simple clasps page so she can play</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
with different fastenings</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Incy Wincy Spider climbed up the water spout</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Down came the rain and washed the spider out</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Out came the sunshine and dried up all the rain</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiW8w00Zr3P5mTLXXMTER-xj3Mze4UoaAccutVh2Mf0xjSin0G5V7nWifugZY8LavsSG-DvipUiLxViULK7qYhfPRKHRoF3hWNqiOtwdE9YA6sj6p53ZfMZSONbHK8HAf-uBAL-65IbUO/s1600/IMG_1084.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiW8w00Zr3P5mTLXXMTER-xj3Mze4UoaAccutVh2Mf0xjSin0G5V7nWifugZY8LavsSG-DvipUiLxViULK7qYhfPRKHRoF3hWNqiOtwdE9YA6sj6p53ZfMZSONbHK8HAf-uBAL-65IbUO/s1600/IMG_1084.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gruffalo page</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1OtEceVVrZDsNBiXGnFkgFp-_mdhhUTedh4GHpCGoG9qi22WBiK931GPaXmuVVUyWe2mmhJ-fugtjTjvLBh0107OcetL3lA7sCBV4xotfGV4YkMJqri_NVTDT4b5t86Ycm5N9dStG5C_/s1600/IMG_1085.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1OtEceVVrZDsNBiXGnFkgFp-_mdhhUTedh4GHpCGoG9qi22WBiK931GPaXmuVVUyWe2mmhJ-fugtjTjvLBh0107OcetL3lA7sCBV4xotfGV4YkMJqri_NVTDT4b5t86Ycm5N9dStG5C_/s1600/IMG_1085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wrote The Gruffalo words into a little hand-made </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
bookletand she can act it out with the finger puppets</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I spoke to my sister recently and apparently Bryony's favourite pages are the Aliens one (she loves to lift the flaps and say 'Peepo!' ) and the Gruffalo one. She is still learning about sticking the pieces on and taking them off (although apparently she can already do the aliens' pants).<br />
<br />
<b>How I Made It</b><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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There are plenty of websites and blogs that can give you far better instructions than I can on making a quiet book. These are the ones that I used.<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://quietbook.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">How To Make a Quiet Book</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.imagineourlife.com/" target="_blank">Imagine Our Life</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.serving-pink-lemonade.com/2011/01/quiet-book.html" target="_blank">Serving Pink Lemonade</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://noodolls.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/gruffalo-party-felt-finger-puppets-of.html" target="_blank">And this is where I copied the Gruffalo finger puppets from</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I got ideas on page content and information about the technical bits of making the book but in the end I designed my own pages (some more influenced by my research than others) as that was easier to do than trying to find specific materials and also I could tailor them to my niece’s interests. I asked my sister about what she liked before I started (she didn't know what I was making) and she told me she liked Aliens Love Underpants, and Incy Wincy Spider book she had, mirrors and faces, playdough and some other stuff I couldn't fit into the book. It's me who loves The Gruffalo but I'm sure she will too!</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Here’s the specifics about my book if you’re interested (everything else can be found on the pages linked above):</div>
<ul>
<li>The pages have 3 eyelets each and they attach to the cover
using book rings (found at Staples) which means that the pages are removable
and can be replaced as she grows out of them.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The cover is made of denim so hopefully will be fairly
durable.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I used Velcro for most of the removable pieces as it was
easy to sew on and should be easy for her to stick on and pull off. I’ve seen
some that used poppers but I thought
they would be harder for her little fingers and also more expensive to buy a
load of than just getting a strip of Velcro, especially as I only had to use
tiny pieces of Velcro.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I used some old fabric I found in my parents attic for the
pages, it’s quite stiff and kind of canvassy but unfortunately I don’t actually
know what it is! I didn’t need anything to strengthen this, two pieces sewed
back to back and the fabric making up the pictures on the front made stiff
enough pages.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The mini pegs on the Aliens Love Underpants page were from
Amazon but I wouldn’t recommend them, I think I will need to replace them with
Velcro as they were already falling apart over Christmas. I’m not sure if they
were just bad quality pegs or if it’s because they are so small.</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-61148803232204492312014-01-09T17:57:00.001+00:002014-06-28T22:55:37.627+01:00DIY Christmas Present RundownSo, now Christmas is well and truly over (although our tree is still up as I haven't got round to taking it down, and the Christmas chocolates are still tempting me every evening!) I thought it was time to write a little overview of the 12 homemade Christmas presents I gave this year (or I guess it's last year now...). I will be dedicating whole posts to a lot of them hopefully over the next few weeks but I thought I'd do a quick overview and post some photos first.<br />
<br />
Here's they are:<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHf1ZlVOszjjYsKRsJjUhXTI1y4pBTC_h4ZEZovADqYSy7os7T53HJh5WwD_gLqX4sO7jdCS0cqgJMfGL9_kz0rqZhdgrW8l8e3OBf7kgfTJhL_BD47ZOYciwy0ukbidlz7TDzVw_1xgHc/s1600/IMG_1086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHf1ZlVOszjjYsKRsJjUhXTI1y4pBTC_h4ZEZovADqYSy7os7T53HJh5WwD_gLqX4sO7jdCS0cqgJMfGL9_kz0rqZhdgrW8l8e3OBf7kgfTJhL_BD47ZOYciwy0ukbidlz7TDzVw_1xgHc/s1600/IMG_1086.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<ol>
<li>3 guitar pick keyring holders (inspired by <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/203506476885684138/" target="_blank">this pin</a> on Pinterest, 1 not shown as it was for my boyfriend and he was around when I photographed these!)</li>
<li>Kindle Paperwhite case (designed by me)</li>
<li>Headphone case (following <a href="http://www.erinerickson.com/2011/11/circle-zip-earbud-pouch-tutorial/" target="_blank">these instructions</a>)</li>
<li>Travel wallet (loosely following <a href="http://www.thimble.ca/?p=1443" target="_blank">this tutorial</a>)</li>
<li>Leicester City Football Club themed baby booties and hat (the booties are <a href="http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/bevs-snuggle-booties.html" target="_blank">my favourite tried and tested pattern </a>and the hat is a <a href="http://www.trimcraft.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=53&t=34835" target="_blank">new pattern I found</a>, which is really quick and easy, see below for pic)</li>
<li>Christmas hair clips (inspired by <a href="http://sprinklesinsprings.com/2012/12/diy-twinkle-star-bobby-pins.html" target="_blank">this post</a>)</li>
<li>Knitted headband/ear warmers (it's just a strip of knitting so no pattern!)</li>
<li>Tote bag insert (inspired by <a href="http://www.evenartichokeshavehearts.co.uk/2012/03/i-am-hand-made-detachable-pocket.html" target="_blank">this</a>)</li>
<li>Russian Doll Peg Bag (my own design)</li>
<li>And finally, my pride and joy, a Quiet Book for my niece (there were many websites and blogs I used to help me with this but I will write a whole post on it instead of putting it here)</li>
</ol>
<div>
Here are some more individual pics:</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sAg8Limml5fKYC5G4SpsmVTBrY-5nzk9UPDjLRmSF4Xp-qRhyphenhyphenhbo-aksMV9BENyeVFZce8t__Ribcji6fUgugcftCKvoIgV2A9Tq2NL1dGOwv4A0f8HBRT0PrtDV6Qkp076vVG9bfs0G/s1600/IMG_1073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sAg8Limml5fKYC5G4SpsmVTBrY-5nzk9UPDjLRmSF4Xp-qRhyphenhyphenhbo-aksMV9BENyeVFZce8t__Ribcji6fUgugcftCKvoIgV2A9Tq2NL1dGOwv4A0f8HBRT0PrtDV6Qkp076vVG9bfs0G/s1600/IMG_1073.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nDLz41djFiaxwmzk6HZqoanvql-CBhcKURT-i38fjsaegtv8MOM0HS3R0Ff86kBIpmYSaYPU00kpN4LYck8O5sdnJEV0TIs6SQ2rd_pixO7JEWX7pxGxO8DPjOIZ9YoQyLHcGd0yhv-L/s1600/IMG_1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nDLz41djFiaxwmzk6HZqoanvql-CBhcKURT-i38fjsaegtv8MOM0HS3R0Ff86kBIpmYSaYPU00kpN4LYck8O5sdnJEV0TIs6SQ2rd_pixO7JEWX7pxGxO8DPjOIZ9YoQyLHcGd0yhv-L/s1600/IMG_1081.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<div>
I'll be doing more detailed posts on the Quiet Book and the peg bag, the others are either fairly self-explanatory or the links I've posted are easy to follow.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-49529918980019141502013-11-27T18:00:00.000+00:002014-06-28T22:55:52.512+01:00Easy Earl Grey Bath SaltsThis is a really simple, cheap and quick DIY and it makes a great gift!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMw2u-PDkLPd3MQmV2N8lhLp9PJn7fRmtkafhe4biYG_DeWeLZia4pMxvwy0wSqpsZakkSODlu1Dj3cxjHoxFg1HJCxHKSe4dhKbMATurOmlHl5MgEHCTDtirppelhKV3V91TcGoBfMM_/s1600/IMG_0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMw2u-PDkLPd3MQmV2N8lhLp9PJn7fRmtkafhe4biYG_DeWeLZia4pMxvwy0wSqpsZakkSODlu1Dj3cxjHoxFg1HJCxHKSe4dhKbMATurOmlHl5MgEHCTDtirppelhKV3V91TcGoBfMM_/s320/IMG_0823.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ingredients:<br />
Course Sea Salt<br />
Epsom Salts (I found them at Boots, they don't seem to be sold many places just as plain Epsom Salts)<br />
Earl Grey Tea Leaves (or any other scent you want to add - I think you can use oils but I haven't tried it)<br />
Bicarbonate of Soda<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NjyP5wIoySw8Ib2LW0-Rf0G0w88yDKpeMO6zbJBXqWg_ZWXDHUAEdKN3wS9XwbeKvdfdcVWoDS64ZwQJq2djmy7vp9rGLNWM0lRHCvHTeEOkhMGT6m6FoScgwwpv3UdyRe4CpcLZiTza/s1600/IMG_0820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NjyP5wIoySw8Ib2LW0-Rf0G0w88yDKpeMO6zbJBXqWg_ZWXDHUAEdKN3wS9XwbeKvdfdcVWoDS64ZwQJq2djmy7vp9rGLNWM0lRHCvHTeEOkhMGT6m6FoScgwwpv3UdyRe4CpcLZiTza/s320/IMG_0820.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you want to give it as a gift, you will also need a nice jar/tin and some pretty paper to decorate it along with glue.<br />
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Use twice as much sea salt as epsom salts, add in about 1/3 as much of bicarb of soda (as epsom salts). (So that's 6 parts sea salt, 3 parts epsom salts and 1 part bicarb.) Mix it all together and add in enough tea leaves to give it a nice scent (about half the amount of epsom salts was about right for me). And that's it, easy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45df3z4fULOcxi55rgrPPBL4t1YFIqYVsKs19X8bJdavMDv5OF2QW42ebhI1xM6XjeYXlb7FTXoD_FPMcjZ7PFDP0YdC9o4kxLCkDYAe8bdyVV3J0MtffTDVIIiwgTH-_aEeDdu47j9m9/s1600/IMG_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45df3z4fULOcxi55rgrPPBL4t1YFIqYVsKs19X8bJdavMDv5OF2QW42ebhI1xM6XjeYXlb7FTXoD_FPMcjZ7PFDP0YdC9o4kxLCkDYAe8bdyVV3J0MtffTDVIIiwgTH-_aEeDdu47j9m9/s320/IMG_0818.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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To make the jars, I used some plastic ones that had once held scented playdough. I just washed off the old labels and made new ones from some pretty paper I have. Then I glued them on using glue mixed with about the same amount of water and covered it with a couple more coats of the glue mix once it was dry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMw2u-PDkLPd3MQmV2N8lhLp9PJn7fRmtkafhe4biYG_DeWeLZia4pMxvwy0wSqpsZakkSODlu1Dj3cxjHoxFg1HJCxHKSe4dhKbMATurOmlHl5MgEHCTDtirppelhKV3V91TcGoBfMM_/s1600/IMG_0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMw2u-PDkLPd3MQmV2N8lhLp9PJn7fRmtkafhe4biYG_DeWeLZia4pMxvwy0wSqpsZakkSODlu1Dj3cxjHoxFg1HJCxHKSe4dhKbMATurOmlHl5MgEHCTDtirppelhKV3V91TcGoBfMM_/s320/IMG_0823.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I gave these ones to my boyfriends mum and sister for their birthdays, and I gave some as Christmas presents last year. They are a super quick way to make a cheap gift.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0United Kingdom55.378051 -3.4359729999999912.188654999999997 -86.05316049999999 90 79.18121450000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-73608575679072770722013-11-21T22:01:00.003+00:002014-06-28T22:56:08.277+01:00Jewellery Holder DIYMy latest project was to turn an old wooden cutlery tray into a jewellery holder for all my necklaced and bracelets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5swSpEIWgsPfoeNfSgZXhn2YnijBN3lAqgSWrjOyieLRPfLOxc5E3uqiZT7mq9-439MWfL77P005X1c9soP4fsPuXVv41f89H4GONLrRExjbREAdOfYF_jTTZ1ATLP15wM1yk-H__j8Gj/s1600/IMG_1050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5swSpEIWgsPfoeNfSgZXhn2YnijBN3lAqgSWrjOyieLRPfLOxc5E3uqiZT7mq9-439MWfL77P005X1c9soP4fsPuXVv41f89H4GONLrRExjbREAdOfYF_jTTZ1ATLP15wM1yk-H__j8Gj/s320/IMG_1050.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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It was pretty simple and quick (except for waiting for the coats of paint to dry) but I did it over a few days. I'm sure you can work it out for yourself but here are the steps in case you want some tips!</div>
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1. Sand down the wood a little so the paint will stick better.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrDtzdMvJHDqfWOMjsQdcYn8wsYJQX5upbp1Aya-SgtZaPC32Lcu7WQNPZDuwsfR6WUOyuJBZQ3L7N-4DkqoZnpDjbkQJw4yLtiHdFdDYiE5G665Paz5h59y2ud8yvIHx-Nq6UaIO4ftY/s1600/IMG_0774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrDtzdMvJHDqfWOMjsQdcYn8wsYJQX5upbp1Aya-SgtZaPC32Lcu7WQNPZDuwsfR6WUOyuJBZQ3L7N-4DkqoZnpDjbkQJw4yLtiHdFdDYiE5G665Paz5h59y2ud8yvIHx-Nq6UaIO4ftY/s320/IMG_0774.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Spray paint. I am terrible at spray painting, this is only the second time I've attempted it and I got a few drips etc. Basically, the trick is to keep moving and do super thin coats, but I haven't quite mastered it yet!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFL527JsT_6B6LKWAP-eyWZeiL93owMV8eM1NSp_6Bv3cIQpni0M5cuGoPcoTL7Ide8ZMLpQQnlvthq_iOfp88A_hxAp0MNRKqUwRtn_WYX-nBeorgxDSUzjmGF3MNR7hOeMPfOALs7GH/s1600/IMG_0775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFL527JsT_6B6LKWAP-eyWZeiL93owMV8eM1NSp_6Bv3cIQpni0M5cuGoPcoTL7Ide8ZMLpQQnlvthq_iOfp88A_hxAp0MNRKqUwRtn_WYX-nBeorgxDSUzjmGF3MNR7hOeMPfOALs7GH/s320/IMG_0775.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. Screw in little hooks. I found these at a local shop that sells household/DIY stuff. It was about £1 for a pack with loads more than I needed so I've got some left over I could use for another project.</div>
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4. Hang all your jewellery on it! (Sorry for the poor quality picture, I haven't got the lighting sorted in my new flat yet!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPgVeDn2mqlnivn64D5mdn6Mx7OiqRpC_n0tGZ8GrziwinS7fcmu2BBNMqPGoKSbqA4IiTlrby0pfv52N0l7Ud2O3EhZ3gM0-sJZEminSUfOEcd0EVRP-R5fmkztLDixJQXU0xYxmfdGK/s1600/IMG_1050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPgVeDn2mqlnivn64D5mdn6Mx7OiqRpC_n0tGZ8GrziwinS7fcmu2BBNMqPGoKSbqA4IiTlrby0pfv52N0l7Ud2O3EhZ3gM0-sJZEminSUfOEcd0EVRP-R5fmkztLDixJQXU0xYxmfdGK/s320/IMG_1050.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I was intending to hang it on the wall but I've just moved into a rented flat so that may not be possible any more. It looks fine leant against a wall though. Now all I need to do is sort through my jewellery as I hardly ever wear most of this!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-23483879663266415922013-09-14T19:01:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:56:28.564+01:00DIY Abstract Flower Nail<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We're coming to the end of summer so I thought I'd do one last summery nail tutorial before autumn arrives. This is surprisingly easy and looks really effective. You can substitute the colours for any others that you have but I really like the gold as the background as I think it adds a bit of glamour to the nail. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGcGUHV9hYZsq8q6pD2ft7Pmtj3FiXE_3GeE7PG-uXzvwYFrpkpDwCCTxw6maRHPlBHSaGKIfLX2zJH3k19sB9QmNbYnMlIqLfQAdfEep1TMxtAtSgvEcAmtkZTanlrTXQc3tyGogiRLov/s1600/IMG_1454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGcGUHV9hYZsq8q6pD2ft7Pmtj3FiXE_3GeE7PG-uXzvwYFrpkpDwCCTxw6maRHPlBHSaGKIfLX2zJH3k19sB9QmNbYnMlIqLfQAdfEep1TMxtAtSgvEcAmtkZTanlrTXQc3tyGogiRLov/s320/IMG_1454.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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You will need...</div>
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* Base coat and top coat</div>
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* A gold colour for the base (I used one from Primark that came in a Caviar nail kit)</div>
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* A selection of 3 colours for the flower (I used <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/beauty-uk/beautyuk-nail-varnish-no35-lilac-girl/invt/595993&bklist=" target="_blank">Beauty UK in Lilac Girl</a>, <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/No7-Stay-Perfect-Nail-Colour_1273349/" target="_blank">No 7 Stay Perfect in Fox Glove</a> and <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Natural-Collection-Nail-Colour_24247/" target="_blank">Natural Collection in Antique Coral</a>)</div>
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* Any green colour for the stalk (I used <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/nails/mua-nail-polish-new-pistachio-ice-cream/invt/637661&bklist=" target="_blank">MUA in Shade 5</a>)</div>
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* Dotting tools (I have <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Coloured-Double-Nail-Dotting-Marbleizing/dp/B00448VZQM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1379179502&sr=8-1&keywords=nail+dotting+tool" target="_blank">these ones</a> and they are really great!) You could also use a cocktail stick</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk4Uj7r0HFMe2xotgMspw9ZBNSUhhvw0PttUV5piFLZuyvmW6VG08ch6tJDYufp0g-acAGaQ3xGTKUTqFx4jhh7qXblMXStbKUa5tCBbNfWMk-Ou1Mdh2P2zhb4XdLcUYgKXiUQJibiT9/s1600/IMG_1455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5VtJPFLSsUvg2KZ_Nrenb1mcwpiHcDiA4D-hQpdhtb9HNv5CexGS-zLdD0YK1KA_hWXrIaL8LyW7OZJPajZJg9dlDcWiOMI6nX_FetPI9wwDTJvhZYIn3MVAu50Fx6LU4n4Re8u0v_1f/s1600/IMG_1437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5VtJPFLSsUvg2KZ_Nrenb1mcwpiHcDiA4D-hQpdhtb9HNv5CexGS-zLdD0YK1KA_hWXrIaL8LyW7OZJPajZJg9dlDcWiOMI6nX_FetPI9wwDTJvhZYIn3MVAu50Fx6LU4n4Re8u0v_1f/s200/IMG_1437.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk4Uj7r0HFMe2xotgMspw9ZBNSUhhvw0PttUV5piFLZuyvmW6VG08ch6tJDYufp0g-acAGaQ3xGTKUTqFx4jhh7qXblMXStbKUa5tCBbNfWMk-Ou1Mdh2P2zhb4XdLcUYgKXiUQJibiT9/s320/IMG_1455.JPG" height="240" width="320" /><br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdop5TQcOlRmFncdlwTywQLrcPfH8G07JHq96Ibd6sZKmJPei_SlAvlbHiLuBDbXyvgvfxiA33W-Coi-F9Y-yEkQpeBrha5L84pqgBM7BWqR-mGOXziiS0KpEVEwwaWZaKQaAajAYZeFXb/s320/IMG_1435.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></div>
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1. Apply your base coat and then two coats of your gold colour to create the background.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKy1PAwPgk-f-qKJ0Hf23oyfycnym5mKihPWrrt-uJHZLvsXlc9dp3n8KAZisoCrNjYZ-fd3j5ArPe6wQzM3_nF6OVr6C3cXD84Z6cgjadbB6iifkx3Otq0ebMhQjvjkWzEAELLSPoWGy8/s320/IMG_1436.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></div>
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2. Take a largish dotting tool and dip it in the first colour. Then paint on a semi circle that looks something like this. The shapes should look a little like paisleys.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1eD5H3zsfzMSgIRZmj2S8_6YTr6W0kJ8jX4r2S_6bgdyecT4oojrZy_1mYynG4qvS6C6EhvcU7Tl8U056oUKDFnZvcgJMNA2Wj9jC2nWpqZUPMAIgzg4mtASZkGs9vSn9PZw8DJVwE3d/s320/IMG_1446.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></div>
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3. Using the same tool dip it in your second colour and paint a dot in the middle of the paisley shape.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikatoeY8L4NP-WSckI_HsA6XfSi5pBhsnXRUxSkUn0i9XpYyF3BeXuW2tYrc1MAi0xKCbzkKdzKAoN0SGfNpUz4xxXd9hbmLrGn4f_hpdCyYwGu6ko4I8Jz7yIztgYsXb6-VGuiA_3IEns/s320/IMG_1447.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></div>
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4. Using a slightly smaller tool, paint a dot of your third colour in the centre of the other two colours. If you do this before the other colours have dried completely (so they are still a little tacky) the dot creates a small indent as well which creates a nice effect.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqldfyR-qlAHMur73k03hDSE7UIGS1evCugzZ0RZHyOJx_q9UXqqIwMHBeUnGmXAc7Xb8h9B6sC1zXrDsryuLjV0548pohgUPFByS9L8biQKAOSF9FyAytlfMWtDZElD3oT3ba56x8o_ky/s320/IMG_1443.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></div>
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5. Take a medium sized tool and dip it in the green. Then sweep the colour round the flower and away to create the leaf/stalk shape.</div>
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6. Leave to dry completely before adding your top coat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nmV4yIKsfAdIucMUVxXnoianZs4ZsboFnDdvYiNUcduXuVDXnpL1mQ_XlZ2jJxxGznirk67vNsgsDyqtyp7qcstgEnbnLZflgjt7EmeaFQr4gFCsEvTW2WWuR5gRniG3-YPS3NUqusN8/s1600/IMG_1444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nmV4yIKsfAdIucMUVxXnoianZs4ZsboFnDdvYiNUcduXuVDXnpL1mQ_XlZ2jJxxGznirk67vNsgsDyqtyp7qcstgEnbnLZflgjt7EmeaFQr4gFCsEvTW2WWuR5gRniG3-YPS3NUqusN8/s320/IMG_1444.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU94T45YnilGdYnpxooDxMSolLeJDn3jPmMVdQ-Swj9F7-Axh2rYC3F42TETHTDa7f1-YdvaeuPNvodYh2Zop4YWjJSCEwt09r7uSzqYx7odft4KfZlJwyF-F0Yq67CCuc_zhtuIzprKG/s1600/IMG_1450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU94T45YnilGdYnpxooDxMSolLeJDn3jPmMVdQ-Swj9F7-Axh2rYC3F42TETHTDa7f1-YdvaeuPNvodYh2Zop4YWjJSCEwt09r7uSzqYx7odft4KfZlJwyF-F0Yq67CCuc_zhtuIzprKG/s320/IMG_1450.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxEAjbx4rJVeEHwFEjpfpHTTYDEGmtJGP4LTsL2Fnn9I40A0yOYbqzfY6AfnEjd-10kx2koJNwdCov2jr0ZilM1xfq9hJFNTq2Iuw9vR4R6AGwVfK_NVw4SUp7NRoZWMo7uijoRBNmZhn/s1600/IMG_1441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxEAjbx4rJVeEHwFEjpfpHTTYDEGmtJGP4LTsL2Fnn9I40A0yOYbqzfY6AfnEjd-10kx2koJNwdCov2jr0ZilM1xfq9hJFNTq2Iuw9vR4R6AGwVfK_NVw4SUp7NRoZWMo7uijoRBNmZhn/s320/IMG_1441.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-3100146081918633762013-09-12T13:44:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:56:44.006+01:00DIY Bow NailsBows are everywhere at the moment. Jewellery, clothes and hair accessories are covered in them so I thought I would try and design a manicure featuring them as well. This design is a little fiddly, but totally worth it.<br />
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You will need...</div>
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* Base coat</div>
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* Pale pink nail colour (I used this <a href="http://www.nailsinc.com/nailpolish/elizabeth-street-polish/344/" target="_blank">Nails Inc one</a>)</div>
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* Darker pink/mauve colour (I used this <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/No7-Stay-Perfect-Nail-Colour_1273349/" target="_blank">No 7 one</a> in Highland Mist) </div>
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* Top coat (I used my <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/No7-Gel-Look-Shine-Nail-Colour_1333829/" target="_blank">No 7 Gel-Look</a> one)</div>
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* Nail dotting tools or a cocktail stick</div>
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1. To start, apply your base coat and then two coats of the pale pink colour. Wait for it to dry completely.</div>
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2. Drawing the bows is a little fiddly and time consuming. It was difficult to take photos in focus whilst I was doing this on the nail, so I've replicated the strokes I did on a piece of paper for you to see...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1_4wklhZeoH9Qgh-pMUB43Zu13CAzyuLTgCaetm6hHcz8I3iWxJSWJwNCyL_8BslD9kIJYZFiuFIdfTx9pFL27EUCCMuQVQE5uyWyn_ULNbpP6hHnHwUOuty2_Kody2tkLOFokZ_eJZF/s1600/IMG_1426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1_4wklhZeoH9Qgh-pMUB43Zu13CAzyuLTgCaetm6hHcz8I3iWxJSWJwNCyL_8BslD9kIJYZFiuFIdfTx9pFL27EUCCMuQVQE5uyWyn_ULNbpP6hHnHwUOuty2_Kody2tkLOFokZ_eJZF/s320/IMG_1426.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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With your dotting tool or cocktail stick, start by putting a dot in the centre. Then draw two triangles on either side of the dot to create the bow shape. Finally, after this has dried completely. Go back in with the pale pink colour and paint on the dot again. This just gives the bow a little more definition.</div>
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On my thumb, I then added two strokes below the bow to create the ribbon effect.</div>
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(Sorry for the quality of the pictures. I think I need a better camera!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33fpofGVrrce6AxEn8mSx1RmcLrtHxYNkP5jTUoPwCwMdiNbfumjz6kpJUw0Te9DZASEHPN4fUj5bcv6NPzaRN0BuCufL0vOFpvRuuVantqTn3aAoFweKc5uUBGxWiDbxXO47QQ8bToPs/s1600/IMG_1430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33fpofGVrrce6AxEn8mSx1RmcLrtHxYNkP5jTUoPwCwMdiNbfumjz6kpJUw0Te9DZASEHPN4fUj5bcv6NPzaRN0BuCufL0vOFpvRuuVantqTn3aAoFweKc5uUBGxWiDbxXO47QQ8bToPs/s320/IMG_1430.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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If you wanted to add little sparkle to this design you could always put a rhinestone in the middle of the bow instead of going back in with the pale pink colour...</div>
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Enjoy! :)</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<br />Mint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-821098138042291032013-09-06T15:33:00.003+01:002014-06-28T22:57:07.921+01:00DIY Beaded Friendship Bracelets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I used to make loads of friendship bracelets when I was about 13, and recently I saw a picture of some really cute beaded ones so I thought I'd do a tutorial on them. They're the perfect gift because you can personalise them to suit anyone. And they look really good layered up with a few different ones. The two in the picture are made using the same technique but with different materials, so you can see how versatile the design is. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdz5kuZ-tpcmoaER9T9BIdhpY51yCac0Fs0tvvGnFLV_vRHACn4QxVRXMaN7spoCJHnui7nCXxdcwHCPuK3ThyphenhyphenLW1wfPfwvH9VzIQxQgCGccjEIRp8cENNs-KSbS74ugPf714TYByW_y7/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdz5kuZ-tpcmoaER9T9BIdhpY51yCac0Fs0tvvGnFLV_vRHACn4QxVRXMaN7spoCJHnui7nCXxdcwHCPuK3ThyphenhyphenLW1wfPfwvH9VzIQxQgCGccjEIRp8cENNs-KSbS74ugPf714TYByW_y7/s320/IMG_1412.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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You will need...</div>
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* Embroidery thread or leather cording (the thicker one is leather cording - I got mine from <a href="http://www.tigerstores.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tiger</a>)</div>
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* Small beads that can you can thread onto your cording</div>
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* Scissors</div>
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* Sellotape (or equivalent)</div>
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* A bracelet clasp (optional)</div>
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I'll show you how to make the thicker bracelet first and then explain how you can adapt the technique to make the bracelet with embroidery thread.<br />
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1. Cut 4 lengths of the leather cording: 2 need to be about 2 times the length needed to go round your wrist (or the wrist of the person you're making it for), and 2 need to be about double this length.<br />
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2. Tie the 4 strands together and place them in this formation..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBj909nqWM4HWDmQwP3qr8S8b6YTTPDJFyvq-FeSEHL4IMkD3QDta5B6jpnLpfnQYNg5Vz2MEKkvlV6Fzph6BCI35IvEVTD1euZZkddrU7v2o4YEdoDLlrjQJ-dM7aM93GOHtrFJeO-J4n/s1600/IMG_1402.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/AVvXsEiBj909nqWM4HWDmQwP3qr8S8b6YTTPDJFyvq-FeSEHL4IMkD3QDta5B6jpnLpfnQYNg5Vz2MEKkvlV6Fzph6BCI35IvEVTD1euZZkddrU7v2o4YEdoDLlrjQJ-dM7aM93GOHtrFJeO-J4n/s320/IMG_1402.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
As you can see I have taped the cords to the table at the top.<br />
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Then I have separated the cords out so that the shorter ones are in the middle and the longer ones are on the outside.<br />
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You then need to thread your beads onto the two middle cords. It doesn't matter how many you put on at this point - you can always add more or take some off.<br />
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Then tape the bottoms of the two shorter cords the the table as well to make them taught.<br />
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It should look something like this!<br />
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3. Now you can get started.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiYPX4QT9Sxt2bC6WlXLeA18Eda_sULFzAuZx5AEHbwKF5fv1qq-RmozBpVh_4b7DTgcFjw6V49IsqAlC3LXX5xFxkc6SmPc6WH1Dh_dcaqp5xYnpre0pz-5jWexJ4Oxx7gq_UHwCGrkP/s1600/IMG_1405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiYPX4QT9Sxt2bC6WlXLeA18Eda_sULFzAuZx5AEHbwKF5fv1qq-RmozBpVh_4b7DTgcFjw6V49IsqAlC3LXX5xFxkc6SmPc6WH1Dh_dcaqp5xYnpre0pz-5jWexJ4Oxx7gq_UHwCGrkP/s200/IMG_1405.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nu8fl_5Wx6ugw8wZT-laTf8oB5r4VAjR8l1cu3DKyEfE8IaYmLAWuA-wXKv77ANXBtHtAmzV57MS2stk2FZlkUlFD2I6Uw2mD__cXRK-40DBb-edhZhd8ja-q1S4KVyfFAa00XcAagVf/s1600/IMG_1403.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/AVvXsEj3nu8fl_5Wx6ugw8wZT-laTf8oB5r4VAjR8l1cu3DKyEfE8IaYmLAWuA-wXKv77ANXBtHtAmzV57MS2stk2FZlkUlFD2I6Uw2mD__cXRK-40DBb-edhZhd8ja-q1S4KVyfFAa00XcAagVf/s200/IMG_1403.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4g2ux1cowGaK4Mg8ldgUbm2x4P9JD5Q_n-zbAxMblddEtG8vmygnCFvxzDj5CFndiK2J82Mdb2c5lpU1xcOmHmJ9ECXVjUIYptiwH3au3Cfgb2nRRu23PTMatjsr-V8fgiB2pvJJiVfF/s1600/IMG_1404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4g2ux1cowGaK4Mg8ldgUbm2x4P9JD5Q_n-zbAxMblddEtG8vmygnCFvxzDj5CFndiK2J82Mdb2c5lpU1xcOmHmJ9ECXVjUIYptiwH3au3Cfgb2nRRu23PTMatjsr-V8fgiB2pvJJiVfF/s200/IMG_1404.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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Take the right hand strand and place it over both middle strands. Then take the left hand strand and place it OVER the right hand strand and the UNDER the middle strands. This will make a loose knot. Grab the two strands and pull tight so that the knot moves to the top of the strands and tighten. I should look like this...Don't worry it's easier than it sounds!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0EuvfiNnWaC00HlPBNEdT59D_93HFFLBM6ThHrwwxyqEGecW4wsYThm792xX9X9RGj2MNSWj60ECgAmgQtN0zIfMTwP9_dHstImxKXnVrGlwdrv0Pz-AtyYKg0KDWg-gzDlFqmhD9YIm/s1600/IMG_1406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0EuvfiNnWaC00HlPBNEdT59D_93HFFLBM6ThHrwwxyqEGecW4wsYThm792xX9X9RGj2MNSWj60ECgAmgQtN0zIfMTwP9_dHstImxKXnVrGlwdrv0Pz-AtyYKg0KDWg-gzDlFqmhD9YIm/s320/IMG_1406.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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5. Now, push one of the beads on the left middle strand up to the top, and repeat the action above but this time reverse it, so the left strand goes over the middle strands and the right hand strand moves over the left strand and under the middle ones. </div>
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6. Keep repeating this alternating the sides and pushing one bead up on the side you are starting with each time. After a while it should look like this...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo7Dp3790w0mRUcccKX-vs520LIfxxjWcQekn7AVP6ElcruDbExyBkvomjO3kkk_WwM7i5kA97hEsQqu7kUlwQ4KpRMH3Mqe7Wn3NKGqpHTpaDWeB0_B2ouweZS2Us4MQ5AAS4kWJWy0P/s1600/IMG_1408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo7Dp3790w0mRUcccKX-vs520LIfxxjWcQekn7AVP6ElcruDbExyBkvomjO3kkk_WwM7i5kA97hEsQqu7kUlwQ4KpRMH3Mqe7Wn3NKGqpHTpaDWeB0_B2ouweZS2Us4MQ5AAS4kWJWy0P/s320/IMG_1408.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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7. And that's basically it. When it reaches your desired length, tie a knot in the bottom to secure. I then added a clasp because I find bracelets hard to tie on but you could skip this step if you didn't have one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lDxNeaK3N2WZPR4UIPCL8tvfwDnsR4yWflYt-S2h_n7Vwv2SibFXg9um_yeY5PxNbqSViyu9IOnQhcD7VLGd2wNAQaUXGts1uSphjF_EUTdJctXskr7GGajceHUQipFD8FfTk1AYNPXE/s1600/IMG_1410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lDxNeaK3N2WZPR4UIPCL8tvfwDnsR4yWflYt-S2h_n7Vwv2SibFXg9um_yeY5PxNbqSViyu9IOnQhcD7VLGd2wNAQaUXGts1uSphjF_EUTdJctXskr7GGajceHUQipFD8FfTk1AYNPXE/s320/IMG_1410.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVidd_DM4b-fW3Cl6HSBpJdxcJ0d6jQGQW_JHdCTydVPGvSEMpKjX4oW31qCa9e590QTSCuhWPi1Qlf8MEPT_hkHK7mSh9C-Xuu61HuYg9barO_bjGghn7kpnfUh3zQxi6ndEhOToKhwbU/s1600/IMG_1409.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/AVvXsEjVidd_DM4b-fW3Cl6HSBpJdxcJ0d6jQGQW_JHdCTydVPGvSEMpKjX4oW31qCa9e590QTSCuhWPi1Qlf8MEPT_hkHK7mSh9C-Xuu61HuYg9barO_bjGghn7kpnfUh3zQxi6ndEhOToKhwbU/s320/IMG_1409.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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To make the bracelet with embroider thread, do exactly the same but instead of having a bead after every knot, I did about 5 knots in between each bead, otherwise you couldn't really see the thread because it's quite thin.</div>
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Anyway, these are so easy to make once you've got the hang of the knots and you can be really creative with different colours and beads.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElsLKP6EUZ-IrmVx39JSNEc2FrLvJAPrXPsAPYnVpegT3936xdY-dl7oaOAvu7wOwcjpoQDAYxwPUY69bfdeGsinF4NnWUp4sfyy-UAmuXlM39llHoznBjU-aw9pMaMARW5ETdLyIOsaY/s1600/IMG_1413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElsLKP6EUZ-IrmVx39JSNEc2FrLvJAPrXPsAPYnVpegT3936xdY-dl7oaOAvu7wOwcjpoQDAYxwPUY69bfdeGsinF4NnWUp4sfyy-UAmuXlM39llHoznBjU-aw9pMaMARW5ETdLyIOsaY/s320/IMG_1413.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Enjoy! :)</div>
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<br />Mint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-27238588208292624142013-09-02T17:50:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:57:47.334+01:00Basic Ombre Nails<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know that there are hundreds of blogs posts about how to do ombre nails, but I'd never tried them before and so I thought I would add my take on the trend. Personally I love the look of ombre anything at the moment and the colours that I've chosen for this look are so summery and aquatic. But I'm excited at the prospect of using this technique with christmassy reds and golds in the winter. Here's my easy guide to ombre nails...<br />
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You will need:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKy9oZq6E8BvEb4upmSaVJ1Rt9LSLJXFeAcHmaxmxLn04pP6zBLoI9f8m6wBRfSdjCXepquZ44APwY9DislIQ0MRIhyphenhyphenW8vY8hS5BUcFV44gTHD1cqOF51H42tSMdgwHDfU4sJD-9O8OjPs/s1600/IMG_1389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKy9oZq6E8BvEb4upmSaVJ1Rt9LSLJXFeAcHmaxmxLn04pP6zBLoI9f8m6wBRfSdjCXepquZ44APwY9DislIQ0MRIhyphenhyphenW8vY8hS5BUcFV44gTHD1cqOF51H42tSMdgwHDfU4sJD-9O8OjPs/s200/IMG_1389.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>* Base coat and top coat<br />
* 2 coloured nail varnishes (I used <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/beauty-uk/beautyuk-nail-varnish-no35-lilac-girl/invt/595993&bklist=" target="_blank">this one</a> and <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/nails/rimmel-salon-pro-peppermint/invt/643366&bklist=" target="_blank">this one</a>)<br />
* Small sponge<br />
* Plastic surface (I used old magazine packaging but you could use anything)<br />
* Cotton buds and nail polish remover<br />
* Cocktail stick (or anything else small and pointy!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQJOYCgQOxIgoGgc1A-tiW9awyOO4Hc80kd4Db85MLxxJl0FgX_ZAdzqGyaGlRnn1t5ylY_nvdtr4LqEO7fG3iOV8j9HeVnADwR1Vd8IxeMfJc1rR7K7UOuB3_9CP_X4DBhyDf3jIcfWa/s1600/IMG_1390.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/AVvXsEhwQJOYCgQOxIgoGgc1A-tiW9awyOO4Hc80kd4Db85MLxxJl0FgX_ZAdzqGyaGlRnn1t5ylY_nvdtr4LqEO7fG3iOV8j9HeVnADwR1Vd8IxeMfJc1rR7K7UOuB3_9CP_X4DBhyDf3jIcfWa/s320/IMG_1390.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
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1. Clean your nails and apply your base coat. Follow this by one thin coat of one of your colours. I used the lilac because I though the turquoise would go better over the top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCx3j0w6UhYTUf2D0zXv-8hLgrTZsUMAfZYjubffxEGG12ePQjm4n6gLC9lIg536aLDzcvdk_ZNCSJJT4_MiBdewOh1vUvxDcpI9p7hbi0-_UZxpfFQfS5feIABvOKLF-Yef0McCAb-9Z/s1600/IMG_1393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCx3j0w6UhYTUf2D0zXv-8hLgrTZsUMAfZYjubffxEGG12ePQjm4n6gLC9lIg536aLDzcvdk_ZNCSJJT4_MiBdewOh1vUvxDcpI9p7hbi0-_UZxpfFQfS5feIABvOKLF-Yef0McCAb-9Z/s200/IMG_1393.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnrwFR7mYXyvlC8WdRkJXEBXnsdlCAiNy5XWFY1LdJPTbjFjf9fwLTch93wlvP3GXqAWnTERxlnVn7bvH7GvFl2gin1SPuX_xG05jGWKi5CKgrqdYAnpN5ZiqpAMm1q0J37kO4FuWvRE1/s1600/IMG_1391.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/AVvXsEgEnrwFR7mYXyvlC8WdRkJXEBXnsdlCAiNy5XWFY1LdJPTbjFjf9fwLTch93wlvP3GXqAWnTERxlnVn7bvH7GvFl2gin1SPuX_xG05jGWKi5CKgrqdYAnpN5ZiqpAMm1q0J37kO4FuWvRE1/s200/IMG_1391.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHhuCCD0wAnb5hvxi55cyUSrxMbJiaXYhwY-27BkcZf1TEXaN1FQusnvhb5qy9sl-HY4D__Tqxzk1yXV86CT05z6coIPkgdImJYguYW67LhkLUKwTeLu8a90ZMVKe5GRXKKcLN8LJF790/s1600/IMG_1392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHhuCCD0wAnb5hvxi55cyUSrxMbJiaXYhwY-27BkcZf1TEXaN1FQusnvhb5qy9sl-HY4D__Tqxzk1yXV86CT05z6coIPkgdImJYguYW67LhkLUKwTeLu8a90ZMVKe5GRXKKcLN8LJF790/s200/IMG_1392.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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2. Prepare your ombre - put two blobs of your coloured nail varnishes side by side on the plastic. Then take your cocktail stick and blend the colours together in the middle. Take your sponge and press the end into the nail varnish so that there is a thickish layer<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFksBdRJNhTxt-s3JwquHFn6VhLfqq0OJ4oXZuxl7W0zjRl1Whc9TTh5oWMMVHWZbYlVsHwaMlcw_i0pzbgoYqeV2wyeXUcfkSYgt_6N8AElAkLSbdPe3Dbp-RPOBReQk2z4pxpSLlT4FQ/s1600/IMG_1394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFksBdRJNhTxt-s3JwquHFn6VhLfqq0OJ4oXZuxl7W0zjRl1Whc9TTh5oWMMVHWZbYlVsHwaMlcw_i0pzbgoYqeV2wyeXUcfkSYgt_6N8AElAkLSbdPe3Dbp-RPOBReQk2z4pxpSLlT4FQ/s400/IMG_1394.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
3. Then simply press this onto your nail. Don't worry it will be messy and go over the edge as you can see.<br />
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4. To clean up the edges take the cotton bud and soak it in your nail varnish remover and simply wipe around the edges of your nail to clean up the excess varnish.<br />
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5. Apply a top coat and voila...beautiful ombre nails are all yours!<br />
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They look a little grainy from up close but from a distance (which to be honest is how most people are going to see then) they look great!</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<br />Mint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-21279425442574110482013-08-28T22:17:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:58:11.381+01:00DIY Tie-Dye 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently spent the day babysitting (or hanging out with really) a 13 year old girl, and unsurprisingly, we ended up spending the majority of our time elbow deep in fabric dye on a major tie-dying spree. I had forgotten how easy and how much fun tie-dying is. We were mainly dying baby clothes for her sister's children, but my brain is now buzzing with the endless possibilities to make super cute, colourful and inexpensive clothes and accessories. Tie-dying has recently made a come-back in high street fashion, but often is a little on the expensive side. But now I realise how easy it is, I'm planning on making the most of the trend! I thought I would do a post about the basics of tie-dying as an easy guide if this is your first time, or if you've forgotten from younger days...<br />
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What you need:<br />
* White clothes/fabric<br />
* Rubber gloves (the dye can be a little harsh on the skin - oh and it also stains your hands!)<br />
* Range of cold water clothes dyes (we used <a href="http://www.wilko.com/fabric-dyes/dylon-dye-fabric-flamingo-pink-50g/invt/0270597?VBMST=dylon" target="_blank">these ones</a>)<br />
* Salt<br />
* Buckets for the dye<br />
* Water bottles with a squirty top<br />
* String<br />
* Rubber bands<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4xVAn3xlxpaCGsD-AnZutZC7ijc2uAC3tbFT9G5LeTcSr8Vh5rPrubIRw34Ox-Nftr_vygK-ONTfmF5f8irvyS3-YHMZeY0qqBSML421hzCvje8wKHGQHPTiOJMubGjIDpPXSYgWdmIch/s1600/IMG_1360+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4xVAn3xlxpaCGsD-AnZutZC7ijc2uAC3tbFT9G5LeTcSr8Vh5rPrubIRw34Ox-Nftr_vygK-ONTfmF5f8irvyS3-YHMZeY0qqBSML421hzCvje8wKHGQHPTiOJMubGjIDpPXSYgWdmIch/s200/IMG_1360+2.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
1. The first thing you need to do it to prepare the clothes dye. We had a whole range of colours so that we could make lots of different designs but you can create these looks with just one colour if you want to keep things simple. Follow the instructions of the back of the pack to prepare the dye, but note that unless you are planning on dying a shed load of clothes, you won't need all the dye. We did about a quarter of each dye and still had plenty left at the end.<br />
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2. Next you need to get your fabric slightly damp. It doesn't want to be wet so it's best to squirt it with water from a bottle or spray and then squidge it a little to spread the water.<br />
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After these basic steps, you need to decide what designs you want on each item. There are a few basic techniques you can use...<br />
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<b>FIRST DESIGN: SPIRAL</b><br />
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If you want to create the classic spiral design, you need to lay your fabric out on a flat surface. You then need to pinch the fabric in the middle, and twist round so that the fabric gets twisted into a spiral. It's a little hard to explain but there is a video below showing you how easy this is! You then need to tuck in all the sides so it should look something like this...<br />
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<a href="http://s847.photobucket.com/user/Bethony_Newman_Turner/media/Tie-DyeTwist_zps9eba1b0f.gif.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Tie-DyeTwist_zps9eba1b0f.gif" border="0" src="http://i847.photobucket.com/albums/ab34/Bethony_Newman_Turner/Tie-DyeTwist_zps9eba1b0f.gif" /></a>
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Then take some rubber bands and put them over the spiral so that it stays tightly wound as you do the dying.<br />
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There are two ways to apply the dye. The first way is the most simple and only requires one colour. For this you need the depth of the dye to be lees deep than the depth of the spiral, and then simply place the fabric in the dye and leave for approx. 30-40 mins. When you then take the fabric out and unwind it, it will have a spiral design with white and the colour of dye you are using.<br />
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The second technique is slightly more complicated but a little more fun! For this you need to put your dye into squirty top bottles. Then place the spiral of fabric on a surface (you don't mind getting dyed), and squirt the dye on, starting at the centre, and working out in circles of different colours, as seen below...<br />
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Flip the fabric over and repeat your pattern on the other side. Then leave the fabric for about 8 hours, or overnight if you can, before removing the rubber bands and unwinding to find a beautiful spiral pattern. I put mine into plastic bags overnight so that the fabric stayed clean and it didn't dry out too much.<br />
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With both techniques make sure you rinse the fabric out thoroughly until it runs clear, and then hang to dry out of direct sunlight.<br />
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<b>SECOND DESIGN: SRIPED</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5x523Z3GagODsk8Oj_FZhC_pW2g_LjVobOx4RhwxOQI49OGtrc15gtjHpsY2VGgxKYffcxjOGEzNa3v0eHPXB51ErxUZvFREg4KDgYinfX16qCMACJIZBPArF3XGYKE44K9j2uZZIk3W/s1600/IMG_1370+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5x523Z3GagODsk8Oj_FZhC_pW2g_LjVobOx4RhwxOQI49OGtrc15gtjHpsY2VGgxKYffcxjOGEzNa3v0eHPXB51ErxUZvFREg4KDgYinfX16qCMACJIZBPArF3XGYKE44K9j2uZZIk3W/s200/IMG_1370+2.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><br />
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To do this striped design, you need to dampen the fabric, the scrunch into a long rope. Then take strands of string and tie tightly around the fabric like this...<br />
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Then just place the fabric in the dye and leave for about 30-40 mins for the colour to soak in. If you want the stripes to be more clear cut, make sure the string is really tight and thick so that the dye can't get to the fabric underneath and stays white. When you take it out of the dye, rinse the fabric before you cut the string away, and the white bits will stay white, otherwise the dye can run into them and blur the lines. </div>
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<b>THIRD DESIGN: DIP-DYE</b><br />
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One of my favourite designs, and so in fashion at the moment, the dip-dye is probably the easiest design to do. Literally just put the fabric in one colour for 20-30 mins, take out and wring, then put about a third back into a different colour and leave for another 30-40 minutes.<br />
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You can also gradually move more and more of the fabric out of the dye over the 40 mins if you want a more gradated look.<br />
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When you rinse make sure the darker colour stays below the lighter otherwise it may run.<br />
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So thats it! One of the best things about tie-dying is that you can go completely wrong and it can still turn out amazingly! So don't despair if you think you've made a mistake, you can always salvage the situation by changing tack. And there are hundreds of other designs and techniques you can use. It's just a matter of getting creative, and probably a little messy!<br />
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Enjoy :)<br />
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xoxoMint&Vanillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579149450987214703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-13771227473152681682013-08-11T20:21:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:58:31.919+01:00Pretty Useful Drawer DividersSo my sock/tights drawer used to look like this:<br />
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It was a nightmare to find the socks I needed, and it didn't really fit.<br />
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Now it looks like this : ) after a really simple and quick project:<br />
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First, I did this (socks sorted by type):<br />
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Then I cut some newspaper to the size of the drawer and worked out how much space each type of sock could have/needed in the drawer.</div>
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Next I cut some cardboard to the right height for the drawer and the right lengths for the pattern I had made on newspaper. I taped them together and checked that they fitted in the drawer (I did have to trim them a bit).</div>
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Then I covered them with pretty wrapping paper using glue mixed with water.</div>
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I waited for them to dry and covered them with another layer of the glue and water.</div>
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And ta-da, a drawer organiser and a much better organised sock drawer!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-82842818901381102532013-08-02T14:04:00.002+01:002014-06-28T22:58:52.650+01:00DIY Labelled Drawstring BagThis is a really simple little project I wanted to share.<br />
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I work with an autistic child and it is useful to have clear endings to activities so I made him a 'Finished' bag where we can put things we have finished doing (e.g. when we finish playing with the ball, it goes in the finished bag). You could make something similar for a toddler maybe or just make a drawstring bag for anything (PE kit, swimming bag, laundry bag).<br />
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This is probably one of the simplest things to make.<br />
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1. Cut a big rectangle of fabric, a couple of centimetres wider than you want your bag to be (wh<br />
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en the fabric is folded in half of course) and about 10cm longer than you want it to be.<br />
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2. Make the label - cut a piece of plain fabric for the label (I used white so it was really clear) and use a sharpie to write on it. Sew this onto your fabric using a zig-zag stitch around the edge.<br />
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3. Fold over a double seam along the top (wide enough to put your cord through) and iron it flat. Then sew it up. I used two lines of stitching for this bit.<br />
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4. Fold your fabric right sides together and sew along the bottom and side seams.<br />
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That's it! It took me about half an hour one Saturday afternoon, and I'm not that fast!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13250150607268410251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5673374427612485866.post-69272299221051665102013-07-03T21:53:00.001+01:002014-06-28T22:59:15.828+01:00DIY Baby JacketI love making things for my little niece, but she is rather inundated with hand-knitted jumpers from family and friends so my sister asked if I could try sewing her a sweatshirt instead as they were short of those. I couldn't really find any good patterns that were in the right size... so I decided to make my own (it also turned out a little more 'jacket-shaped' than I intended - hence the title of the post!).<br />
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I had seen one pattern for a cross-over sweatshirt that was all made from one piece of fabric, it was too small for my niece but it seemed like a much easier way of making a sweatshirt so I started to design my pattern using the same idea.<br />
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What you need:<br />
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<li>another top to get the right size/shape (I bought her a hoody to use but you could use any long-sleeved top - just make sure to make your sweatshirt a bit bigger if you use a t-shirt)</li>
<li>paper for your pattern - I often use newspaper for patterns, this time I used kitchen grease-proof paper so that I could trace through (cello-taped together to make it big enough!) or you can use proper pattern paper</li>
<li>Fabric - I lined mine so I used 2 different fabrics - one knit and one cotton (I should have used 2 knits to make it stretchy or another stretchy fabric)</li>
<li>double fold binding - you can make your own, I actually used some single fold bias binding I had left over and just folded it round</li>
<li>buttons, zip or poppers - I used poppers, I wanted a zip but couldn't find an open-ended one in the right size or buttons that I liked enough! Note - if you are using a zip, I suggest sewing that seam first so do not follow this tutorial exactly!</li>
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1. First, you need to draw your pattern. </div>
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To do this, lay your top on the centre bottom of your paper and draw round it, then, flip it diagonally along the outside edge of the sleeve. Fold the top in half vertically (as you only want it to come half way across the front on each side) then draw around it again. Repeat on the other side. Unfortunately I don't seem to have a photo of this (I'm sure I took one...) but hopefully the pictures below will be enough of a clue as to how to do it!</div>
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Now add seam allowances, and a bit to each side of the front middle where your buttons will be (if you are using a zip, you only need to add a seam allowance here). I would also suggest adding some width to the sleeves as mine ended up a bit tight. Note - I straightened the edges of my pattern using a ruler after I had drawn around the top, this made it easier to sew but I did end up with a quite severe look to the jacket, I would recommend keeping slightly more rounded, unless you want a jacket shape. Then think about the shape of your neckline, I made mine a v-neck, making sure the 2 sides would overlap but this depends on your fastening.<br />
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Cut out your pattern, it should look something like this:<br />
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2. Cut fabric</div>
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Pin your pattern to your fabric and cut around it, do this with the lining and the outer fabric. You should have 2 pieces the same.<br />
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3. Sew arm and side seams<br />
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Fold the outer piece right sides together and sew along the bottom of the arm and the side seam on each side using whatever seam allowance you drew into your pattern. Do the same with the lining (remember the right side of the lining will be the inside of the jacket). Trim seams and cut a slit at the corner (shown in photo) to make sure it lies right once all sewn together.<br />
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4. Add any details to the front.<br />
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At this point you need to add an pockets/pictures etc. to the front before you sew in the lining. I went with a little pocket on one side and a cat on the other (my niece's first word was 'cat').<br />
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Pocket - cut a small rectangle, bind the top edge, fold in other edges (I cut little triangles off the corners to make them sit nicely), sew onto jacket.<br />
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Cat - I drew a cat on grease-proof paper first then cut it out of the lining fabric. I used embroidery thread to make the face then used a zig-zag stitch around the edge to attach it to the front of the sweatshirt.<br />
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5. Put lining inside sweatshirt. Make sure to pull the sleeves through and line up the seams. I didn't sew this in until I did the binding.<br />
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6. Bind. Pin and sew binding along the bottom edge first (I did the neck and front first but that looked wrong where they met and I had to add an ugly extra bit of binding to the corner).<br />
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Then pin and sew binding along the front and neck, ease it around the curves, it will be hard to pin and it will look like it won't lie flat, but it does work out when you sew it!<br />
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Finally, you need to bind the sleeves, this is probably the hardest bit. I ended up tacking my binding on to get it in the right place then sewing it. This would probably have been easier if I'd had wider sleeves (another reason to add some allowance to your pattern, along with having to get baby arms in and out!).<br />
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And you're done! Mine definitely isn't perfect, but for my first attempt, I'm proud of it. And it looks cute on!<br />
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I later sewed a little mouse out of felt and gave it a plaited wool tail that attached into the pocket so the mouse could come in and out of the pocket. I didn't manage to get this done in time before I gave her the jacket (I wanted to give it to her on her 1st birthday) so I did it later and sent it to my sister to add in so I don't have photos of it on the jacket.<br />
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