Have you ever seen those gorgeous ribbon wreaths that pop up in elegant department stores for the holidays? Beautiful though they are, they are often expensive – and might not be exactly the colour or style to match your décor.
The good news is, they are simple and inexpensive to make – and fun! You can indulge your creativity and tailor them to match any season, party, or décor style. I have some I keep up all year round. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create your own ribbon wreath – or make them as gifts.
This is the fun part! Your choice of ribbon defines the overall look of your wreath. Sometimes I choose ribbons of different thicknesses or materials to add texture to the wreath – ribbons with sparkle, cotton and hemp ribbon, mesh ribbon – whatever takes your fancy.
I choose a colour scheme – traditional red and green or silver and blue for Christmas, orange, green and black for Halloween, pastels for a baby shower, rainbow glories for Pride – quite literally, whatever works for you is a great choice. Have fun looking for seasonal printed ribbons too – you probably have some in your stash already!
Cut your ribbon into strips. The length will depend on the size of your wreath, but around 5-7 inches is a good starting point. You want each strip to be long enough to tie around the wire. Don’t worry about making each piece exactly the same length – a little variation adds to the wreath’s charm.
If you are using a wire coat hanger, gently open the triangular part of the hanger, bending it into a circle. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the ribbon ties will hide a multitude of sins, and the ring can be adjusted if necessary once you have finished tying your ribbons. The hook at the top of the hanger can be bent gently into a loop for hanging the wreath. This can be decorated with ribbon wrapped around it or can be disguised by gluing a decoration to it.
If you are using garden wire, cut a piece of thick wire to your required length with wire cutters (experiment with different sizes before you cut) and secure it into a loop with the finer floral wire by wrapping the ends of the thick wire to hold it in a loop.
Take a piece of ribbon and loop it round the wire; tie a simple knot to secure it. Repeat until the loop of wire is full of ribbons. Squash the ribbon knots together tightly to ensure the wire is covered.
Here, I am creating a wreath to hang in our apple tree as a summery picnic decoration, using lovely vintage ribbons in pastel colours that I purchased at an estate sale along with a collection of other gorgeous haberdashery materials. The ribbon is petal-soft and that open weave will let sunshine filter through beautifully.
If you would like to, you can embellish your wreath with glass baubles, tiny toys (perfect for a child’s room), silk flowers or seasonal decorations. I sometimes use a glue gun to attach them, or I dangle a decoration such as a bauble, a bat for Halloween or a snowman for Christmas from a fine ribbon tied to the top of the wreath so it hangs down in the middle of the hoop.
You can make these wreaths with strips of coloured netting (tutu net or tulle), strips of coloured felt, strips of fabric cut from upcycled clothes – any type of material. Experiment and have fun!
If you make a ribbon wreath, we’d love to hear about your experiences and see your photos, so please share them here in the comments and on our Facebook page.
Have you tried making a ribbon wreath? Have you experimented with different types of fabric? Have you made any seasonal wreaths in this way?
]]>Vacations in the summer months usually involve traveling to warmer destinations where we can just let go and relax. But preparing for any travel can be anything but relaxing.
So here are some fundamental things to consider that can make the whole process less stressful, and actually kind of enjoyable! Once your itinerary is set and you have a fairly good idea of what the weather conditions will be, you’re already half-way there. The events and climate will give you the parameters for what and how much you need to pack.
What causes a lot of anxiety in traveling is those last-minute decisions that often result in making mistakes… resulting in heavy and bulky luggage! So, here’s my main, and what I consider the most helpful, suggestion: start creating your travel wardrobe two weeks before you leave.
If you have one of those handy dandy rolling clothes racks, use it to display the entire wardrobe you plan to pack. If you don’t have one of those racks, designate a portion of your closet to what you plan to bring. You can add or subtract items to the collection during that time, but at least begin the process two weeks in advance.
The reason for this is that your brain starts to connect what you see on that rack every day with how you see yourself at your destination. The length of your trip and the circumstances you will be in will determine what goes on that rack. During that two-week period anything that just doesn’t make sense for your purposes or that doesn’t contribute to the whole image you want to convey will stand out to be eliminated.
It’s not as important to create entire outfits as it is to be sure that the colors you choose coordinate well with each other. That doesn’t mean you have to go for all neutrals, although neutral basics will make your packing easier and your travel less stressful. For variety you can bring along one or two print items. There should just be a feeling of harmony when you look at all the items on the rack.
What this means is that several items will be in the same color and will harmonize with your neutrals. Neutral colored bottoms and accessories – unless you want to add a pop of color in something like espadrilles, a belt, or a small bag, will make creating a whole look easier. A few tops in your favorite colors will make sure you won’t be bored. But frankly, mono color neutral wardrobes are extremely chic and packable.
If you love prints, a striped top or blouse is perfect for a summer day and can work with both blouses and slacks. And a floral printed blouse or a midi dress in a nice print can be dressed up for dinner or down for an afternoon walk through town.
Another possibility is to pack a pair of loose, printed slacks and wear them with a very simple solid color button down blouse. A simple white cotton or linen one would be terrific in this look. Add some gold jewelry and you’re good to go. It’s a very chic and festive look.
Whether you bring both pants and/or skirts, make sure that the tops you choose can be worn with either type of garment, several times, and in multiple ways.
For most of us, the biggest packing conundrum is about which shoes to bring. One woman I know took exactly one pair of shoes with her for a three-week trip to Italy. They were designed for comfort, had a 1 ½” heel, and went with everything she wore. But our feet tend to be happier when we switch to different heights and types of shoes.
So, here’s the first rule of thumb: wear your bulkiest pair for travel. Every travel expert knows this rule. Since sneakers and trainers are fashionable and acceptable everywhere right now, and are often your most comfortable shoes, that can be your bulky pair. Of course, if you are planning to do some serious hiking, heavier-soled shoes will do.
I know we all see a lot of women wearing sandals on an airplane, especially in those “celebrity airport outfit” photos. Certainly, many styles of sandals are very comfortable. (Birkenstock Arizona sandals are apparently all the rage again in Europe right now.) But frankly, sandals are less hygienic for plane or train rides, and your feet are likely to get cold.
But do plan to bring a pair of comfortable sandals. They just say “summer” more than booties or loafers. If you’re traveling for a wedding, you might think you need to bring a pair of higher-heeled sandals, but they aren’t really necessary when there are so many flat and lower-heeled elegant pretty sandals readily available. Lower heels are less awkward to pack and take up less space.
If you’re going to be going out to dine or attending social events, your sandals should be just dressy enough to look chic rather than just sturdy walking sandals. If you’re planning a poolside or beach vacation slides will serve you well.
Your third pair can be a slip-on casual shoe or canvas espadrille. The latter is dressy enough to make a lot of very simple outfits look very chic and elevated.
And whatever shoes you bring, pack them in bags. I know a lot of women use cloth bags. But shoes accumulate a lot of unpleasant detritus and organisms from the ground. I don’t think it’s a great idea to pack them in cloth bags anywhere near your clothing or toiletries. I save and re-use zip-lock type larger bags when I purchase things like sheet sets or sealed liquids. They work beautifully for packing shoes. Otherwise, large zip-lock food bags for each shoe will also work.
When planning your travel wardrobe, choose items that can be utilized for more than one event. In fact, choose items that can be worn repeatedly throughout your trip.
One multi-purpose, no-brainer garment is a large shawl in a pashmina-type fabric. It can keep you warm on a plane or train and in air conditioned rooms. It can provide a nice finishing touch for strapless or sleeveless dresses. I never travel without one.
As oversized tops are very much in vogue, a solid color oversized button down blouse can look great on its own, tucked into a skirt or slacks, or with the ends gathered up and tied around the waist. You can wear it in all those ways with a skirt, slouchy slacks, jeans, shorts or Bermudas. It can also serve as a jacket worn over a sleeveless top or tank. It can also be your beach or pool cover-up.
Fashionable French and Italian women have embraced the midi dress as a forever summer piece for ages. And the style is now popular worldwide. These are usually looser, flowing garments, which makes them very forgiving if you plan to ditch your diet while on your trip. Dress them up with silver or gold strappy sandals (sneakers won’t work with these), dangly or chunky gold earrings, and your shawl. Or dress them down by adding a button-down blouse, tied at the waist, worn with neutral slides or flats, or colored espadrilles, gold hoops, and a crossbody, or tote bag.
Printed midi dress with ruffle wrap
And especially if you’re going to a tropical climate where it might briefly rain every day, or anywhere with very changeable weather, a hoodie windbreaker or rain shell is always a good idea. These are usually thin enough to slip into your carry-on or checked luggage without creating bulk as would something like a trench coat or heavier parka.
The most comfortable material for hotter destinations is linen, of course. It breathes well and tends to keep you dry. But remember that it wrinkles right off the hanger. Style-wise a few wrinkles are perfectly acceptable in linen clothing.
If you are staying at a nicer resort, it’s likely they will have an iron and ironing board in the room. Ask ahead of time. Sometimes they will deliver an iron and ironing board to your room if it’s not already there. Otherwise, a small travel steamer is a good idea, and they can fold up into a small area for packing.
Woven rayons and other plant-based textiles are also excellent for packing. They don’t take up a lot of space, do not wrinkle, wash and rinse easily, and drape nicely. It’s a great idea to pack a couple of t-shirts or tanks in those fabrics. And as Marie Kondo of “KonMari” fame suggests, I like to roll my tees and blouses instead of folding them. I place them on top of one another and roll them as a group. They are less likely to wrinkle and seem to fit into smaller spaces in my bags.
It’s hard to travel anywhere these days without at least one pair of jeans. Denim is a heavier textile but not an uncomfortable one for travel. And it goes with just about anything. If you don’t already own a pair of white jeans, consider adding them to your collection. White is always fashionable in the summer, but now more than ever.
Wear them with a tank top in the same shade of white or one of the other colorful tops in your travel palette. You can also pair them with a striped tank or tee and add a simple belt, hoop earrings, and slides, flats or sandals for a very chic look. You can also dress them up with a patterned blouse or one of the newer eyelet style fuller sleeve blouses worn with dangling earrings.
If you pack wider leg jeans, either in blue or white, you can also likely wear them with your travel sneakers or trainers.
If the weather is going to be changeable or much cooler in the evening, a cashmere or cotton knit cardigan or pullover/jumper is another very useful addition. Wear it with your white jeans, a midi skirt, or even Bermudas with slip-ons or espadrilles.
Lifestride Kascade Wedge Espadrilles
What used to be called “fanny packs” have gone through a marketing transformation to sound more fashionable. They’re now called “waist bags” or “belt bags.” The latter actually serve as a belt, threaded through the loops on your jeans or slacks. Either type can be your everyday bag throughout the entire trip. Some are also worn as “sling” bags, worn like a cross-body.
The more utilitarian versions, like those from Baggalini, have multiple zippered compartments and are very sturdy. They’re also perfect for your travel days. The more fashionable ones are generally smaller but will likely carry your phone, passport, a few cards, and maybe also a lipstick.
Triple Zip Bagg (baggallini.com)
Another option is a so-called “anti-theft” cross-body version. These have slash-resistant construction and RFID blocking technology so your credit cards can’t be swiped electronically from someone nearby.
But if you are on a beachy-type vacation, you probably also want something bigger and more summer specific. You can certainly pack a straw, raffia, or woven satchel or tote if you stuff it with soft essentials like sleepwear, a small travel pillow, even underwear and socks. But if you’re pretty certain you’ll be doing some destination shopping for gifts, clothing, or accessories you might want to pack a foldable woven or macrame-type tote for your haul.
Wherever you plan to travel it’s a good idea to make photocopies of your essential papers and cards (passport, itinerary, emergency contact, phone numbers, credit cards, I.D.) When you get to your destination, keep them somewhere secure, such as your hotel room safe.
Things like sunscreen, makeup, and toiletries can always be easily replaced, but others, like medications, can’t. Bring those in your carry-on, not your checked bags. And lastly, speaking of sun protection, be sure to pack at least one hat, maybe two!
A baseball cap for casual days at the beach pool or walking around town, and a packable roll up fabric or woven hat for when you want to be more stylish. And large sunglasses will jazz up any outfit.
Bon voyage!
Where are you traveling to this summer? Have you packed your backs? How many days ahead of time do you pack? What about last-minute packing? What have you included as travel essentials?
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Welcome to the next installment of Thoroughbred Logic. In this weekly series, Anthropologist and trainer Aubrey Graham, of Kivu Sport Horses, offers insight and training experience when it comes to working with Thoroughbreds (although much will apply to all breeds). This week, come along for the ride as Aubrey offers her logic on how to feed the hard keeper.
When I got Rikki (Tiz So Fine) off the track, she came with the moniker “the clothes hanger.” The reference to the modeling industry was not lost on me. The nearly 17-hand bay beauty sauntered out of her stall, not looking bad, but still a bit light on weight and muscle. Everyone else in Michael Ann Ewing’s race barn was fat and happy. Rikki was definitely happy — the goat had even claimed her stall as his; she just wasn’t in the mood to be fat. Rikki is a classic “hard keeper.”
When she came home with me, we amped up her alfalfa intake and fed three meals a day (I’ll talk more about this in a bit). Later, as the fancy Tiz Now offspring loaded on a trailer bound for a new life and potentially next year’s Thoroughbred Makeover, she left on an upswing.
I’ll spare you the long story of everything and everyone in the mare’s last year, but I’ll note that there are people in that history who have absolutely done as right by her as they could. In the end, hamstrung by contracts and complicated relationships, what they could and did do was help her get back here.
When I bought the mare back she was rail thin. She had been living at a boarding facility for a number of months, having been pulled from the care of a knowledgable trainer. Her coat was dull, long hairs hung from her flanks in the summer heat, and her skin was flaky. The coat hanger look had gone full Kate Moss circa the 1990s; in the equine equivalent, the mare was at least 200 pounds underweight.
It has now been almost six weeks since she has gotten back here and we’ve made progress, but there is more weight and now muscle to be gained. Here’s how we got there:
There are about 3485739457 different ways to feed a Thoroughbred. As such, some folks will take issue with what I write next as it might be different from what they do or what they have done in the past. Great. If your horses are fat and have topline and are shiny and healthy, you’re already winning. This is just one more path that regularly works for the two dozen OTTBs in my barn at any given point, and is particularly helpful for the hard keepers.
First, hay. Horses ought to have access to quality forage (hay or grass or the like) at pretty much all times. When they’re underweight or just a Thoroughbred in general, I always recommend that some of that hay throughout the day ought to be alfalfa. Not only is that super green, super expensive stuff great for their body condition, skin, coat, and overall wellness, it is also good at keeping their gut happy and helping keep ulcers at bay. (No, it likely will not cure ulcers alone, but it will help maintain a happy stomach).
To keep putting the weight on Rikki, she eats three times the usual serving of alfalfa and two times the usual serving of Timothy when in her stall. Grain wise, I use a base of soaked forage — so more alfalfa, this time in cube form — as well as soaked beet pulp, which I top with a three-quart scoop of Hallway Distinguished (high quality senior feed), ground flax, Luminance (fat supplement), oil, salt, and Madbarn’s Omneity (complete vitamin and mineral supplement).
Rikki gets that combo meal twice a day. And then in between she gets small meals of 1.5 scoops of grain an additional one to two times a day. *Horses can only digest so much at a time, so the small, frequent meals help a ton. But feeding enough of those meals – and enough at each meal – is critical. Sometimes the hard keepers are good eaters. Sometimes they just need better balanced nutrition and more (high quality) food.
A couple of quick points that might kick off internet fisticuffs. No, I do not think that alfalfa makes a horse hot. Some errant horses may have a true allergy to it, sure. But for the hundreds of Thoroughbreds who have passed through these stalls over the years, none have become crazy or hot because they consumed large amounts of alfalfa. I’ll get to the part about sass and energy in a minute.
I also regularly get questions about “why senior feed?” for not senior horses. The short answer is that the grain complements the whole feed package here. Senior feed is high in fat and fiber and easy to digest, helping Thoroughbreds get the energy they need efficiently. There are a ton of very reputable farms that successfully create chunky Thoroughbreds on straight high quality senior feed without all the other components of my concoctions. I just like my set up and enjoy the piece of mind that the sloppy forage mash and quality grain combination provides.
A few other important points to add here:
Rikki gets a stall. She gets to eat inside by herself at her own pace. She gets 12 hours of turnout with a small herd, but she also gets a break from the heat and the flies, and she doesn’t have to compete for her food. There are absolutely ways to do this in fields with shelters and individual feeding stations. I just find the stall to be the easiest for my farm’s set up.
Additionally, when Rikki came back in looking nutritionally lacking, I ran a course of the Panacur Power Pack wormer just to make sure we didn’t have any other pest feeding off of her system. That also gave me peace of mind that she was getting the full benefit of what I was feeding — nutrients, calories and all.
Thankfully, she started to improve rapidly. However, for other particular horses, when things still weren’t looking up, when the coat remained dull and the skin wasn’t improving, I got the joy of hunting down and eradicating ulcers. In other words: selling my soul and emptying my savings for tubes of equine gold, also known as Gastroguard. I’ll have to write something specifically on ulcers in another article, but suffice to say there are a million treatments on the market and as many people to swear by different ones. I’m in camp “Scope first, Gastroguard to treat.” That one hasn’t failed yet, unless you’re looking at the impact on my bank account.
And now that I have told you a lot of different ways that we go about putting weight on horses… now that I have caveated that there are sooooo many other ways to do this… now that we have gone through stalls, and getting out of the flies, and mini-meals, and ulcers and wormers and all the things… now, I’m going to go up a step on my soapbox for one last thing:
When the horse is fat and happy they will have the energy they were bred to have. For many Thoroughbreds, this means that they have pep. They have spunk. They have some zing to their step. When their coats are shining and they are bright eyed and the ribs begin to fade slowly from view, you are riding the horse in a state of health and appropriate energy. That healthy horse is the horse you train.
In other words, here’s how my vet puts it, “Drastically cutting feed to make a horse ridable or less ‘hot’ is simply using starvation to gain submission.” Sure, that statement might be hyperbolic, but I don’t think it is wrong.
I’ll step off my soapbox now and go prep the first of the horses’ meals. I might find my way to some eggs and leftovers at some point, but I’ll be damned if my horses don’t have every opportunity to eat like royalty. Nearly every one of them here was bred to compete in the sport of kings; there was never the expectation that they could do that when fed as anything less.
]]>Our little coat closet has seen a lot of change in the three and a half years we’ve lived here. But, last year I finally installed a DIY built-in organization system, and that has been a game changer for us. The only problem? Pretty shelves only do so much good if the shelves themselves aren’t organized!
A couple of weeks ago, I got sick of the chaos (again), and decided to do something about it. I’m working with The Container Store over on Instagram as an ambassador this year, so I did a ton of browsing and planning over on their website and came up with a plan.
And so far? It’s holding up pretty well!
As we all know, I’m not a pro when it comes to keeping a coat closet organized. But, I have learned a lot of lessons in my time trying to figure it out so far. So, here are five quick tips that will hopefully help you get started on getting yours organized too.
The first (and most important) step to take is to plan out everything you need to store in the closet. Sure, you probably have a general idea in your head of what goes in the space but do you know everything?
I found one of the most helpful steps in the process this time around was to actually write down all of the things we store in here or would like to store in here. This should include the things you don’t technically store in the closet that somehow end up in the closet anyways.
Once you’ve got your list, make a plan. Think about a space inside that closet for each and every category of items. I even took the time to sit down and use Canva to plan out how things would look and fit on the shelves before I even hit the “order” button!
Having a plan is key and you won’t regret taking the time to sit down and plot it all out ahead of time.
When I was creating our built-ins, I planned one shelf for each person in our family. That makes it a lot easier for me to plan and gives everyone a space for all of their random stuff. The boys each have a spot for their backpacks along with a sturdy bin that can hold anything else they want. This usually means hats, books or small toys they don’t feel like carrying upstairs yet, or water bottles. It’s random and I try not to micromanage in – the bin contains their chaos and I don’t have to think about it!
This was a big lesson for me this time around and I think it has made a big difference in how the closet feels! Last time I bought stuff to organize this closet, I used my favorite see-through storage bins. I use them all over my house because I love how easy it is to see what’s inside and find things when I’m looking.
The only problem? They can add a lot of visual clutter to a space, too! In this closet, we mostly know what’s in each bin. There aren’t as many categories as there are in our pantry or the art closet, so I don’t need to be able to see inside the bins. It just stressed me out!
So instead, I opted for bins that would hide the clutter a bit. For mine and Corey’s shelves, I also went with baskets that have lids. We access the things in ours less frequently, so it’s preferable to be able to stack them and keep everything fully hidden away. The boys use their bins on the daily, so they’re super sturdy and don’t have lids on them.
I mean, this tip goes into pretty much every post about organizing, but it’s important so it’s worth repeating again and again and again. I’m a firm believer that storage systems will not last if you don’t use labels. Especially if someone other than you is going to be using them!
Make it so that your family absolutely cannot claim they don’t know where things go. I promise, it’ll make a difference. We’ve got shoe and sock baskets in the bottom of our closet, and each one is clearly labeled with what’s inside. Just adding labels to these baskets increased the likelihood that shoes would end up where they belong by a solid 90%. It was kind of like magic.
It’ll also reduce the amount of times your family asks you “hey where’s X item?” At least, after you show them the label a few times.
A note on this: I also think it’s valuable to spend a little bit of time living with your system before labeling everything. For example, in our closet we have labeled the shoe baskets but the baskets on mine and Corey’s shelves are mostly unlabeled. Why? Because I want to make sure what we have in there works for us first! After we’ve lived with it for a month or two and know we like the system, I’ll go back in and label things.
I think in any organization project, it’s important to remember that what works for one family might not work for another. You could copy and paste my exact entry closet into your home and find it impossible to keep up with. That’s because every family has different systems, needs, and rhythms.
Why is it important to keep this in mind? Because you shouldn’t just go out and buy everything I’ve linked here and try to make your closet look just like mine! It probably won’t work! It’s important that you take the time to figure out what your family needs, how they use your space, and what they can keep up with.
For example – our kids do best being able to toss their shoes in a basket. Maybe you’d prefer shoe cubbies, putting them on a shelf, or keeping them in the garage!
We live in Texas, so we delegate very little space for coat storage. Maybe you need twice what we need. Or maybe you only use your coat closet to store one or two coats per person with the rest kept elsewhere.
My kids come in the front door after school and drop their backpacks in the coat closet right away. Maybe you come in through the garage and a mudroom or wall hooks near that door would make more sense. Or maybe, you need to add hooks to the door because the closet doesn’t have room for a shelf.
You get the idea. Spend some time thinking about your family’s rhythms and systems and make a plan based on how you already move throughout your day. It’ll last a lot longer that way. And finally…
I think this is a key to keeping yourself sane when trying to organize your home. No system is perfect – because your family won’t be perfect about keeping up with it. Over time, various extra things will make their way into the room. Things won’t get put up where they belong, and your pretty organization efforts won’t look so pretty anymore.
It’s impossible to avoid. Just plan for it, accept it, and embrace it. It’s okay!
I generally plan on doing a closet cleanup at the beginning of each season. As our needs shift, it always helps to take a second to reset things. This time, I packed our winter gear up high, cleaned out coats we don’t need anymore, and made a little extra room for sunglasses, water bottles, and pool gear. Before school starts, I’ll take a second to remove all of the summer chaos and leave more room for backpacks!
Going into an organization project knowing that you’ll have to touch it up on occasion makes it less painful when you have to touch it up. I don’t think there’s a family on the planet that keeps up their coat closet organization perfectly all the time. I promise.
Here’s a look at everything I used in this closet. It’s only been a few weeks but so far I’m thrilled with the new setup. The kids are keeping it better organized than they ever have, and I don’t find myself cringing at it when the door gets left open. It’s all so pretty!
The post Entry Coat Closet Organization (Tips & Tricks) appeared first on Love & Renovations.
]]>Steak in Singapore can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable options. To save yourself from chowing down inferior steaks, we’ve sussed out a list of cheap steaks. The eateries on this list offer great value-for-money steaks and are worth a visit for any occasion.
If you’re wondering about your desired level of doneness, here’s a quick summary of the different types available.
Rare: Slightly cool bright red centre
Medium rare: Warm red centre
Medium: Warm pink centre
Medium well: Slight brown to pink centre
Well done: Brown centre, charred outside
Most steak lovers usually opt for medium-rare, as the meat remains tender and succulent while retaining most of its juicy flavours. If the steak gets cooked even further, it’ll lose most of its flavour and gives an unpleasant leathery texture.
Hang out with friends at Meat N’ Chill, an affordable steakhouse located on the stretch of Bukit Timah Road. Order their value-for-money New York Strip, which sets you back only $19++ for a thick cut of short loin and two sides. Complimentary sides include Buttered Corn, Coleslaw, Green Salad and many more. Alternatively, you can pay an additional $3++ for premium sides which includes a variety such as Truffle or Chilli Cheese Fries.
Other options include their Angus Ribeye ($36++), which comes with free truffle shavings upon request. Savour the earthy kick from the truffles along with the juicy beef cut, or pair them with the house-made Échalote shallots sauce for more flavour. Those who don’t fancy steaks can also opt for their Signature Pork Ribs ($22++). With a generous coat of sticky sauce and tender meat, the pork ribs had the right amount of fat and had me using my fingers instead.
This two-storey, 70-seated restaurant boasts a full house on the weekends, so be sure to make a reservation beforehand.
Address: 805 Bukit Timah Road, #01-04, Sixth Avenue Centre, Singapore 279883
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5:30pm to 10pm, Sat-Sun 11:30am to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm
Tel: 8812 4455
Website
Meat N’ Chill is not a halal-certified eatery.
A mainstay in the local steak scene, Braseiro Restaurant continues to draw in the crowd after all these years. This cosy shophouse comprises two storeys of dining area and even comes with an alfresco rooftop garden for an intimate setting.
The menu is kept simple, with a choice of Ribeye Steak, Beef Skewers, and Half Chicken going for $24.90+. Each order also comes with free-flow house-made french fries and fresh chopped lettuce.
Ribeye is the most popular option here, and it’s easy to see why. Each piece is carefully flame-grilled, giving a nice kiss of smokiness that goes beautifully with the juicy meat.
Check out our full review of Braseiro!
Address: 333 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427588
Opening hours: Daily 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 11pm
Tel: 9116 3304
Website
Braseiro Restaurant is not a halal-certified eatery.
Braseiro Review: Steak With Free-Flow Fries For $19.90 At Joo Chiat
What makes The Feather Blade different from the other players on this list is its focus on the feather blade cut. This cut of meat isn’t traditionally the most popular around, as it requires a bit of finesse to trim it from the beef chuck.
In 2002, scientists found a new way to trim the feather blade off and realised that its ranked second in tenderness behind the tenderloin. The end product is an affordable piece of meat that is tasty and tender.
We’re huge fans of the Feather Blade Steak ($24++), which won us over with its tenderness that came along with robust and meaty flavours. The steaks here are also sous vide before being cooked, resulting in consistently cooked pieces of meat.
You can also pair the meats with an impressive selection of sides priced from $9++. While the store offers four different house-made sauces such as Sichuan Peppercorn, Bearnaise, Horseradish Cream, and Red Wine at $2.50++ each, we recommend having the steak as is.
Address: 90 Club Street, Singapore 069458
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 5:30pm to 1am
Website
The Feather Blade is not a halal-certified eatery.
The Feather Blade Is Now Permanent At Club Street Along With Secret Burger Item
There’s no better way to welcome the weekend than the weekend Steak Buffet ($33) at The Armoury. This all-you-can-eat meat feast features Australian grass-fed rib eye and striploin, along with a variety of sides such as nacho chips, fries, spam fries, and many more.
On top of the cheap steaks, BBQ pork ribs, grilled pork belly, and fried chicken thigh are some of the other meat options that are included in this meat buffet.
Of course, what you pay is what you get and it’s hard to label the steaks here as top-quality nosh. I don’t even remember the staff asking for the desired doneness of our steaks.
But at $33 nett, this buffet provides amazing value and is an undisputed option for those looking to fill up their belly.
Address: 36 Beach Road, Singapore 189766
Buffet hours: Sat-Sun 12pm to 2:30pm, 5pm to 9:30pm
Website
Armoury Craft Beer Bar & Steak House is not a halal-certified eatery.
Opened by the people behind affordable French specialist Saveur, MediumRare follows the same ethos of its parent restaurant and serves up tasty fare at wallet-friendly prices. Despite presenting themselves as a steakhouse, they also carry other mains such as rice bowls, poultry, and Saveur’s ever-popular duck confit.
Ribeye Steak ($25++) comes with a 200g slab of meat that’s accompanied by a generous amount of marbling. We asked for a steak with medium doneness and were satisfied with how it had a nice pink in the centre.
Unlike The Feather Blade, the steaks here also come with two free sides and a complimentary sauce. There are quite a few sides to choose from, which also include Potato Wedges, Onion Rings, and Crunchy Coleslaw. Sauce options are also aplenty, with Cafe De Paris, Mushroom, Black Pepper, Mala, and Black Bean available.
Address: 2 Tampines Central 5, #01-35, Century Square, Singapore 529509
Opening hours: Daily 12pm to 10pm
Tel: 6789 1121
Website
MediumRare is not a halal-certified eatery.
MediumRare Review: Saveur Opens A Steakhouse At Tampines With Steak Under $20
Image credits: @_vphang
Starting from a humble coffee shop store, iSTEAKS Diner has expanded over the years and now has three restaurants islandwide. It’s a good idea to head down for their cheap steaks early as the queue tends to stretch for quite a bit.
My go-to dish is their NZ Ribeye 200g ($29.50++). The steaks are always cooked to the right doneness and are beautifully marked with even grill marks.
It also comes with two complimentary sides, with 20 different options to choose from. Popular favourites include Country Baked Beans, Cream Spinach, Cauliflower Cheese, and Mashed Potato.
Address: 1 Maju Avenue, #02-03, myVillage@Gardens, Singapore 556679
Opening hours: Sun-Thur 11am to 11pm, Fri-Sat 11am to 12pm
Tel: 6285 8839
Website
iSTEAKS Diner is not a halal-certified eatery.
Image credits: @joewee72
Opened by the Astons group of restaurants, BIZEN Okayama Wagyu Steakhouse serves up wagyu steaks at affordable prices. The restaurant has an exclusive partnership with Okayama cattle farmers in Japan, giving them access to many unique cuts which are otherwise hard to find in Singapore.
There are a whopping 20 different cuts to choose from, with many exciting variants such as Flank 150g ($22.90+), Tri Tip 150g ($23.90+), and Plate 150g ($22.90) available.
Move away from the usual sirloin and ribeye options, and check out their Flap Steak 150g ($23.90+). It’s popularly known as a butcher’s cut as butchers usually keep it for themselves to enjoy instead.
Address: 68 Orchard Road, #N3-10, NomadX@Plaza Singapura, Singapore 238839
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 10pm
Tel: 6219 3463
Website
BIZEN Okayama Wagyu Steakhouse is not a halal-certified eatery.
While they’re not technically proper steaks, the hamburger steaks at Hamburg Steak Keisuke ought to satisfy any meat cravings. Using only quality US prime beef, the patties here are full of flavour and come with a beautiful sear.
There are only two options on the menu, a regular hamburger or one with cheese inside. We went for their Triple Cheese Prime Hamburg Steak Set ($24.90++), which comes with a sharp creamy cheese filling that pairs nicely with the tender meat.
There’s also unlimited access to the salad bar, and an egg station here. We liked their plain omelette, which is served in a creamy omu-style. The fluffy inside is buttery and proved to be dangerously addictive.
Address: 72 Peck Seah Street, Singapore 079329
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 3pm, 5:30pm to 10pm
Tel: 6908 4348
Website
Hamburg Steak Keisuke is not a halal-certified eatery.
Hamburg Steak Keisuke Review: Japanese-style Beef Hamburg Steak With Hidden Cheese Lava
Headed by a 23-year-old chef, BlackGoat started out as a home-based business. Now, they have a brick-and-mortar stall at Jalan Batu Hawker Centre. The Muslim-friendly eatery doesn’t have a fixed menu, so you’ll have to keep tabs on their Instagram page to find out what they’re serving for the week.
On our visit, we had the New Zealand Grassfed Striploin with Black Garlic ($15.50). This was served medium-rare, boasting a glistening red-pink on the inside with an even brown crust outside. The flavours here are simple, with the steak being lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, and served with savoury black garlic sauce on the side.
If you’d like to try their other menu items, we highly recommend the Free Range Lamb Leg with Sarawak Pepper Jus, Sumar and Sambal Belacan ($17) and the Grassfed Flank and Chuck Burger ($15) too.
Read our Blackgoat review.
Address: 4A Jalan Batu, #01-05, Jalan Batu Market & Food Centre, Singapore 432004
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 5:30pm to 8:30pm (or sold out)
Tel: 8383 5982
Website
BlackGoat is not a halal-certified eatery but uses no pork or lard.
Another Muslim-friendly option on this list is Picanhas’, a halal restaurant serving value-for-money steaks and hearty plates on Club Street. As the name suggests, they specialise in the picanha, a unique rump cap that’s popular in Brazil.
There are only two proper steak mains on the menu––the Picanha Don ($21) and Queen of Steak ($29). The steaks are dry-brined, slow-cooked, and finished on the stove with butter, resulting in a rich and succulent texture. You can also pair your meat with an extra serving of house-made sauces such as Chimichurri, Wasabi Cream, and Sze Chuan.
We personally prefer the Picanha Don over the Queen of Steak, as the picanha is sliced more thinly, making it extra tender. It also comes with sweet onions, cabbage, and aromatic garlic bits for a more well-rounded meal.
Read our Picanhas’ review.
Address: 90 Club Street, Singapore 069458
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 12pm to 3pm, 5:30pm to 10pm, Sat-Sun 11am to 3:30pm, 5:30pm to 10pm
Website
Picanhas’ is a halal-certified eatery.
Picanhas’ Review: New Restaurant Serving Value-for-money Steak And Mocktails In The CBD
Image credit: Kevin SG
Uno Beef House serves one of the cheapest ribeyes on this list, priced at only $17 per serving. The humble stall at Toa Payoh’s Maxim Stars Coffee Shop is known for its snaking queues and popular Black Pepper Sirloin Steak ($17). This dish features a thick slab of meat served on a hot plate, sizzling in black pepper sauce. It also comes with baked beans, half a tomato, and a house-made potato croquette.
According to online reviews, the steak here is cooked to a beautiful medium-rare and is said to be uber juicy. The meat is also on the fatty side, with a lightly charred exterior for extra smokiness.
Address: 168 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310168
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 9:30pm
Tel: 9677 6007
Uno Beef House is not a halal-certified eatery.
Image credit: @smokinjoesg
Smokin’ Joe may be located in a hawker centre, but they’ve got culinary equipment that rivals that of an upscale steakhouse––specifically, a $10,000 Spanish Josper oven used for most of the mains on their menu. Meat lovers can expect high-quality cuts of Smokin Joe’s signature steak, including the fire-grilled AU Ribeye 200g ($19) and AU Tenderloin 180g ($26). Add-ons are also available, such as Mushroom Soup With Garlic Bread ($3), Mashed Potato ($3), and even Foie Gras 80g ($12)––in case you’re feeling fancy.
Fun fact: the eatery was also part of Urban Hawker 2022, a food hall in New York spearheaded by Makansutra.
Address: 51 Yishun Avenue 11, #01-37, Yishun Park Hawker Centre, Singapore 768867
Opening hours: Daily 12pm to 9pm
Website
Smokin’ Joe is not a halal-certified eatery.
If Yishun is too out of the way for you, head over to Rasa Sayang Western Food instead, which is located at Ang Mo Kio Street 31. The hawker stall is famous for their affordable Western food, such as the Sirloin Steak ($12.90). This yummy dish sees a juicy medium-rare steak drizzled with a tangy tomato-based sauce, served with a trio of crinkle-cut fries, garlic bread, baked beans, and coleslaw. The portion here is also generous for the dish’s price point, so you’re definitely getting your money’s worth!
Read our Rasa Sayang Western Food review.
Address: 347 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, #01-2142, ST 31 Coffee House, Singapore 560347
Opening hours: Thurs-Tue 11:30am to 2pm, 5pm to 9pm
Rasa Sayang Western Food is not a halal-certified eatery
Rasa Sayang Western Food Review: Famous Old-School Western Stall In Ang Mo Kio
Image credit: @royalpalmmeatndine
Royal Palm Meat & Dine is a Persian-Western restaurant with an extensive selection of steak and beef-focused pasta dishes. They’re also halal-certified. We recommend the aged Australian Striploin 200g ($28.90++), seared until the steak forms a caramelised crust, and then plated with burnt eggplant puree, char-grilled potatoes, and a side of greens. Other steaks on the menu include the “Gorina Argentinian” Ribeye ($28.90++), featuring a seared 200g ribeye with baby carrots and oyster mushrooms, as well as the “Vintage” Australian Rump Cap ($27.90++)––200g rump cap with pumpkin puree, potatoes, asparagus, and crispy quinoa.
Address: 390 Victoria Street, #03-12A, Golden Landmark Shopping Centre, Singapore 188061
Opening hours: Daily 12pm to 10pm
Tel: 6339 7766
Website
Royal Palm Meat & Dine is a halal-certified eatery.
Image credit: Steak Me
Nestled among the row of prata stalls and cafes at Jalan Kayu is Steak Me, a halal-certified steakhouse known for their cheap steaks and weekday specials, including 1-for-1 sirloin on Mondays and 1-for-1 ribeye on Thursdays! Their PS Striploin AKA New York Steak ($24+) and PS Ribeye AKA Scotch Fillet ($28+) both come with a side of fries and salad. Diners can also choose from four sauce options to go with their steak: Peppercorn, Herbs Butter, Mushroom, and Thai Spicy Sauce.
Address: 239 Jalan Kayu, Singapore 799472
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 3pm to 10:30pm, Sat-Sun 10am to 10:30pm
Tel: 6481 1083
Website
Steak Me is a halal-certified eatery.
Image credit: @steakvillesg
This small steak eatery at Sunshine Plaza changes their menu every month, so you’ll always have something new to savour. The eatery hand-picks its steaks based on whatever is in season, to ensure only the finest cuts are served to customers. We’ve heard good things about their Signature Hanger Steak ($24++), which sports a mouth-watering shade of pink. It’s also said to be incredibly moist, and is served with a creamy carrot puree and truffle mustard. Another noteworthy dish is the 150g Hunter’s Ribeye Steak ($28++), consisting of house salad, beetroot puree, and a sprinkle of val d’elsa sea salt.
Address: 91 Bencoolen Street, #01-56, Singapore 189652
Opening hours: Tue-Thurs 5pm to 10pm, Fri-Mon 12pm to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm
Tel: 9233 5142
Website
The affordable steak restaurants on this list should please any hungry meat lover. If you’re looking to save even more money, you can also try purchasing some steaks from the supermarket and cook them in the comfort of your kitchen! Otherwise, read our best steaks in Singapore guide for date nights, including halal options.
20 Steak Restaurants In Singapore For Date Nights, Including Halal Options
This post was brought to you by Meat N Chill.
The post 16 Cheap Steaks In Singapore Under $35, Including Free-Flow Ribeye And Hawker Options appeared first on EatBook.sg - Local Singapore Food Guide And Review Site.
]]>"This razor gave me the silkiest, smoothest shave I've ever had! I never get any cuts or scrapes, even on those hard-to-shave places."
There are countless reasons to create your own capsule wardrobe, most notably that a capsule wardrobe can help you cut down on clutter, save money by investing in a handful of pieces (versus dozens), and make coordinating outfits infinitely easier—not to mention that it’s a much more sustainable way of shopping. Building a capsule wardrobe can also be an enjoyable and rewarding task. Rather than stress shopping to keep up with the latest trends, you’re taking a very proactive role in your personal styling.
A best-kept secret to capsule wardrobes is that they can be created to serve different purposes. One such purpose? They can be the solution to I-don’t-know-what-to-wear-today mornings when getting ready for your 9-to-5. If you personally dread putting outfits together for the office, a minimalist work capsule wardrobe can change that.
As you might have guessed, a minimalist work wardrobe is a no-fuss, straight-to-business collection of fashion items. Think refined work-wear staples that all play nicely together, such as trousers, blazers, button-downs, loafers, heels, and the like. With an emphasis on “minimal,” this wardrobe is free of the “extra” or overly trendy and thrives on the simplicity of owning a small handful of stylish things. It’s a highly-strategic, efficient way to approach dressing for the office.
While all capsule wardrobes follow a general theme, what makes a minimalist work wardrobe different is its dedication to professionalism and deference from the changing seasons. Unlike a seasonal capsule (such as this fall work capsule wardrobe), which is subtly influenced by colors, textures, and patterns associated with its designated season, your minimalist work capsule should remain generally agnostic. In other words, don’t run out to buy an orange blouse just because the calendar reads “October.” A minimalist work wardrobe is also generally elevated and chic. For instance, it strays away from the graphic tee and elastic waist bands that you might find in a work-from-home capsule wardrobe.
If you’re sold on the idea but are wondering how to build a capsule wardrobe, have no fear. While it does require some thought, time, and effort, you’ll find that the process is more than worth the commitment. Here are six easy steps for creating a minimalist work wardrobe.
Before you get started, there’s something to be said for taking a moment to visualize your perfect professional wardrobe. Some things you might want to consider:
All of these starter questions can help you start to visualize what your finished wardrobe will ultimately look like. Don’t be afraid to also jump on social media and scroll through for outfit inspiration.
You probably saw this one coming, but every fashion overhaul requires a good cleaning out. Using the vision you’ve set forth in step one, take a critical eye to your current wardrobe. Go through your closet and dresser drawers, removing all items that no longer bring you joy. Whether it doesn’t fit correctly or match your desired style, or has been sitting on its hanger untouched for the last three years—let it go. Don’t forget to give your shoe rack a once-over as well!
When considering items to keep for your minimalist work wardrobe, prioritize quality materials, chic silhouettes and styles, and neutral base layers (such as a pair of tan trousers or a white button-down shirt) that can act as foundations to build upon.
When you’re finished purging, consider donating items that are still in good condition to jumpstart your new commitment to sustainable living.
Once you’re done clearing the clutter from your closet, take a moment to recoup and assess what’s left. To do this most efficiently, consider grouping items together by clothing categories. In other words, hang your dresses together, consolidate your pants to one section of your closet, keep short-sleeve tops together, and so forth.
Looking at your different clothing categories, take stock of which items or general categories are lacking. Do you have at least three pairs of shoes you can wear to the office? If not, jot it down. And I do mean literally write it down. It’s much easier to be strategic and stick to a specific plan if you commit it to paper.
When assessing wardrobe gaps, keep your vision top of mind, referring again to your personal style, your employer’s dress code, and the weather of your geographic location. While a minimalist work wardrobe may vary slightly from person-to-person (based on the factors mentioned) some items you might consider filling your collection with include:
Of course, the best part: shopping. When investing in new pieces, be sure to keep versatility in mind. Neutral colors are timeless and allow for more effortless styling. If your personal style tends to be a little more vivacious, consider adding pops of color to your wardrobe through accessories. As with any capsule wardrobe, quality is also key. Avoid purchasing fast-fashion items that will fall apart after a handful of wears and leave you unexcited to reach for them time after time. If investing in clothing is tricky based on your personal budget, enjoy the journey by setting aside a small fund each pay period and saving up for items you truly love. Take the pressure off of yourself by knowing that your minimalist work wardrobe doesn’t have to manifest itself overnight.
As you continue to curate your wardrobe, have fun creating looks by mixing and matching the pieces in different combinations. As you get more comfortable in your curated collection, begin to also consider what kind of seasonal pieces you might want to throw into the mix to make your closet even more versatile. For instance, if you live in a colder climate, you might want to add a trench coat and posh scarf. In contrast, you might also consider adding a pair of quality sunglasses to your accessories drawer to protect your eyes on your commute.
1. shirt dress (plus)| 2. tote | 3. puff earrings | 4. ballet flats
Be it a warm summer day or a chilly fall one, a shirt dress always fits the bill for an office day. With a pair of ballet flats and your go-to tote bag (this one is our team’s favorite), it’s an easy outfit to throw on, but packs a major punch.
Workwear tops don’t have to feel stuffy, and this textured tee is proof of that. With a pair of linen trousers and loafers, it’s formal enough for the office, and can be worn on repeat with your arsenal of business-casual bottoms.
1. boatneck top | 2. trousers (plus) | 3. tote | 4. slingbacks
An all-black moment screams “professional,” so this is a great look to pull out on a day you have a big meeting or presentation. The structured details of the boatneck top add some power to your work, while the trousers and slingbacks tie it all together.
The post The Everygirl’s 2023 Workwear Capsule Wardrobe appeared first on The Everygirl.
]]>Organizing clutter and evaluating our storage strategy is a constant—we are always adapting to our ever-changing lifestyles and schedules, like the demands of a new school year or the crazy tumult of the holidays. Winter is just another time for us to take stock of how our household reacts to the season of bulky winter coats, wet and dirty boots, and errant mittens taking over the whole house.
Luckily, we are always up to the challenge of finding the best way to store and keep our winter clothing, lest we get overrun! Here are some great ideas I’ve found. I hope they inspire you to tackle your winter storage dilemma.
There’s always another way to maximize your mudroom! You can fit your winter shoes into the space beneath the built-in bench. It’s a no-brainer and a breeze to make.
Yet another reason why you need to stock up on a clear plastic shoe organizer. These little pockets are everything! Hung up inside a cabinet door or in your mudroom, you and your family can easily stash away scarves, hats, and gloves while still keeping them visible.
How cute is this? But it’s also pretty useful—clip up your mittens and scarves and hang the whole rack near the door, so everything you need is a grab away as you head out the door on cold mornings.
Try mounting old drawers on casters to store all your sweaters and winter coats. This way, they’re rolled away and out of sight beneath your bed, but ready to be thrown on once the air starts getting crisp and chilly.
If there’s one thing I hate, it’s melted snow and mud getting tracked all over my clean kitchen floor! Avoid the hassle with this pretty and functional DIY drip tray.
It’s so easy to make you’ll probably end up making one for each member of the family (now there’s an idea—why not personalize it?)
If you have kids who constantly leave mittens and hats everywhere, consider giving them a “dump zone” by way of this wire magazine rack mounted inside the hall closet. They’ll never lose anything—how’s that for amazingly useful winter storage?
Good-quality leather boots are an investment. Make sure you keep yours in tip-top shape ready to take on the harsh weather outside by storing them properly. Cut a pool noodle to size and use them to maintain your boots’ structure.
Sometimes the best winter storage hacks are the simplest: Have you ever considered knotting your scarves and tights this way on a large hanger? Pull it out from the back of your closet when winter comes and you have your entire collection within arm’s reach.
If you're into the rustic look and recycling is your thing, why not assemble old crates into a functional shoe storage system that's full of vintage vibe?
Bonus: Old beverage crates with compartments work for scarves, too!
Large empty cans get a new life as mudroom storage center! When mounted on the wall, they become great little cubbies perfect for storing anything like crocheted headwear and other snow gear.
Aren't all of these winter storage ideas so easily DIY-able? I hope these ideas help you keep your cool despite the stress and mess of the cold weather season! There's no reason to dread the dreary weather because you have all the clutter under control.
Which winter storage idea do you need in your home right now? Let me know in the comment section below.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on January 26, 2017, updated for quality and relevancy.
]]>I love a good dollar store organizing hack, because I think about organization more in terms of function than form. I love the look of gorgeous, high-end organizing systems as much as the next gal, but I’d rather spend money on something fun than spend it on bins, baskets, and other organizing tools I can find at any dollar store.
Since most of us homemakers have a budget to consider, it’s important to remember that getting organized doesn’t have to cost a fortune! That was the motivation behind a roundup of dollar store organizing hacks I shared a few years back.
And since being budget-conscious never goes out of style, I thought it was high time to revisit the subject! :-) Here you’ll find another batch of organizing hacks centered around things you can find at your nearest dollar store. Let’s get started!
For even more organizing tips and tricks, be sure to check out my eBook Get It Together! You can buy it in my shop, or download it for free if you’re an OGT Plus member!
Need help keeping track of all your appointments and to-do lists? Dollar stores offer a surprising variety of calendars and planners!
Look for wall calendars, desk calendars, pocket-size calendars, and more. It’s a great way to keep yourself on track without emptying your wallet to do it!
Related: 7 Clever Hacks To Organize Your Kitchen On The Cheap
Use simple containers from the dollar store to help keep supplies organized in your home office or workspace. Cups and magazine organizers are perfect for pens, markers, and copy paper!
Keep track of your bills, contracts, and other important documents with portfolios, folders, and envelopes from the dollar store. I even found a binder of notecards with section dividers at my local dollar store that I’ve been using to keep recipes handy.
Related: How To Organize Paperwork: The One Simple System I Live By
These dollar store organizers were advertised as bins for picture books, but that’s certainly not the only way you could use them. I personally thought they would make a perfect solution for storing table linens like napkins, placemats, and tablecloths!
Small containers with locking lids are extremely versatile, and you can find them at many dollar stores! Use them while you travel to store bar soap, hair accessories, cotton swabs, and more.
Speaking of travel, I also found this handy pencil case that’s perfect for my makeup brushes. It protects them in transit and has the added benefit of being easy to clean!
Mesh baskets like this one are a mainstay at dollar stores, and there’s a million ways to use them at home. Try mounting one on a wall and hanging your earrings from it! You can also store things inside the basket, like bracelets and other accessories.
Related: 7 Things You Do That Are Ruining Your Jewelry
Coat closets aren’t always the most useful if you’re short on storage space. But with a trip to the dollar store and a little bit of creativity, you can make it a much more functional space!
One way to add more storage to a coat closet is to make your own hanging basket system. Just thread the handles of a few lightweight baskets over the hook of a hanger, then hang them from the bar in the closet.
Use your hanging baskets to store craft supplies, clothes, or anything else you want to keep organized!
Kids aren’t the only ones who can benefit from the wide variety of stickers that most dollar stores offer! You can use small, colored stickers to color code items around the house.
For instance, a few sheets of star-shaped stickers can help you color code your collection of herbs and spices! Use green for dried herbs, purple for chilis and spicy powders, yellow for baking spices, etc. A simple color coding system like this makes it easier to find what you’re looking for.
I found a bag of coin wrappers at the dollar store recently, and I’m kicking myself that I didn’t think of buying them there sooner! (I bought a package on Amazon recently for much more than a dollar and ended up with way too many of them!)
With a collection of coin wrappers at home, you can save the fees of going to a coin counting machine and keep that money in your pocket.
Related: 7 Useful Things You Can Do With Loose Change
The Dollar Store Hacks Series
Have you come across any great finds at the dollar store recently?
]]>If you’re not already familiar, allow us to introduce you to the Upcycling subreddit. Below, you'll find some of our favorite photos from the group featuring incredible transformations that items have undergone, thanks to the innovative minds of the world’s best recyclers, as well as a conversations with Kristen Hubert of Upcycle My Stuff and Judy Rom of Upcycle That. Enjoy getting some inspiration for what that dusty, old chair in your attic could be turned into, and be sure to upvote the pics that you find most impressive!
Image credits: lycorisette
Image credits: Confident_Order_899
Image credits: dopamiineonline
Although you might feel a strong temptation to throw anything that you don’t use often away, you probably also hear a tiny voice in the back of your head urging you to make a different choice. “This piece of furniture can be salvaged! You can patch up the holes in that sweater! You could use some of that fabric to make pillow cases instead!” If you’ve ever heard that tiny little voice, perhaps you’re already thinking with an upcycling mind. And if not, maybe this article will inspire you start viewing your old items in a completely new light!
The Upcycling subreddit has been around since December 2011, and has amassed an impressive 146k members. With a simple explanation of what exactly upcycling is, “reusing waste or unwanted materials without destroying them in order to create something new,” the group welcomes members to share amazing transformations, ask for ideas of what items can be turned into and bond over the love of all things that have been reused. You can find anything and everything in this subreddit, including products for sale that brilliant upcyclers have created.
Image credits: noah10293
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Image credits: couchpotatolady
To learn more about the art of giving old items a new life, we reached out to upcycling expert Kristen Hubert, creator of Upcycle My Stuff. Kristen’s site shares tips and tutorials for sewing, transforming furniture and decor items, crafts, gifts and more, and lucky for us, she was kind enough to bestow some of her upcycling wisdom upon us here at Bored Panda.
First, we asked Kristen how she began her upcycling journey. “I have always been a bit crafty and hated anything going to waste, but I really got into upcycling when I moved into my first apartment and wanted to customize secondhand furniture,” she shared. “I couldn’t afford new furniture in the style I liked but with some paint, fabric and imagination I could stamp my style on unloved cheap furniture other folk didn’t want!”
Image credits: noah10293
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Image credits: OldStuff1909
We were also curious what kinds of transformations Kristen finds particularly captivating and inspiring. “The Upcycle projects that amaze me the most are always the ones where an item gets used for a completely different purpose - like turning a door into a dining room table or a mannequin into a lamp!”
And when it comes to why we should all hop on the trend of recycling old items, Kristen says, “Upcycling is important because there is already so much stuff in the world! We don’t need to be constantly using raw materials to make new items. It would be more sustainable and more efficient for everyone to use the materials that are already out there in the world. It might feel faster to mass produce, but then we have to deal with all the items that go to landfill on the other end. So we are just creating problems for ourselves!”
Image credits: xJCruz
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If you’re interested in starting to upcycle items yourself but just aren’t quite sure where to start, Kristen says her top tip is to just give it a go! “Let go of the excuses about needing the right tools or materials or even skills. Use what you have on hand and get creative. You will be surprised what you can achieve. If you are nervous, start small (for example, a side table or a picture frame) and go from there.”
Image credits: annabellinchen
Image credits: Bydanielpearce
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“You will never learn how to paint, sew, or cut wood if you never take the first step and try,” Kristen told Bored Panda. “Most of the skills needed for upcycling are harder in your head than in reality! I have plenty of beginner friendly tutorials on my site, and I’d love to see you there!”
To find some of Kristen’s brilliant tutorials or learn more about why upcycling is so wonderful, be sure to visit Upcycle My Stuff right here!
Image credits: Psychosispersonified
Image credits: MartoufCarter
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We also reached out to Judy Rom, co-founder and curator of Upcycle That, a website dedicated to sharing genius upcycling inspiration and ideas. Judy was kind enough to share her expertise as well, noting that she first got into upcycling in 2012. “I love that it totally changes your mindset around what 'trash' is. Once you start upcycling, you look at the whole world around you differently,” she told Bored Panda.
Judy also shared about some of her favorite pieces that she’s ever made, including an amazing larger-than-life upcycled tennis racket and shoe that she created for the World Trade Centre Mall in Hong Kong and the BACARDI steamer trunk bar. “Upcycled pieces can actually be really premium and high-end. Some of the coolest pieces are Detroit houses turned into guitars, the Boeing 737 chair, Star Wars sculptures,” she noted.
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When it comes to why upcycling is so important, Judy urges people to consider, “Where is this 'away' that we think things go to when we throw them 'away'? Fast fashion and fast furniture (items made to last a season) are clogging up our planet. It's essential for us to shift our mindset around the useful life of items. When you upcycle you look at an item and imagine what it could become. Upcycling is another tool in the green arsenal that encourages us to reuse and repurpose, rather than generate trash.”
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And if you’re looking for tips to help you get started upcycling, Judy conveniently just wrote a book on upcycling that will help you along your journey. “It's called Upcycling Furniture & Home Decor for Dummies,” she shared. “This easy, step-by-step guide shows you how to get creative and put your own unique flair on your designs. You'll gain the knowledge and confidence you need to select items that are worth transforming or restoring and learn specific techniques to give old pieces a new lease on life.”
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“The book is for anyone who wants to: learn the process of upcycling dressers, tables, chairs, and other furniture; enjoy the fun of sourcing items and increasing their value with their creativity; update their decor with gorgeous, upcycled furniture; express themselves and find out how to flip their creations for a profit!” Judy says.
And if you want to start upcycling today, be sure to visit Upcycle That and check out some of their brilliant tips and tricks right here!
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I don’t know about you, pandas, but I’m suddenly feeling the urge to go dumpster diving and find something with incredible potential that I can repurpose! We hope you’re enjoying these pics of amazing upcycling transformations. Keep upvoting the ones you find most creative and impressive, and let us know in the comments if you have plans to upcycle anything you own soon. Then, if you’re interested in checking out even more pieces who have been given second chances at life, you can find another Bored Panda article featuring amazing upcycling pics right here!
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]]>As HM King Charles III’s 2023 Coronation procession clatters, creaks, clanks and stamps its way from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey and back on 6 May, the world will gaze at Great Britain PLC doing something at which it is still world-beating: looking magnificent on parade. But behind the gleam, the spit and the polish, and the endlessly rehearsed drills, there are other things going on.
First and foremost, the pomp of the coronation procession is an ever-evolving, generations-old pageant staged by British monarchs to impress their subjects (although for ‘subjects’, now read global television and internet audiences), not only with their grandeur and wealth but also with the potency of their Armed Forces, who march alongside them. However, all those riding, marching and standing military personnel have their own mission: apart from being impeccable on parade, they must protect their sovereign, with their lives if need be. In essence, that brightly burnished Coronation procession is a living ring of sharpened steel protecting The King, carried by highly trained men and women, often – just look at the medals worn proudly on their chests – with multiple combat tours between them. Let’s look at some of the ‘players’ in the 2023 Coronation procession.
This consists of The Life Guards, the senior regiment resplendent in red tunics, with white horsehair plumes in their metal helmets, and The Blues and Royals – magnificent in blue tunics and red plumes – with whom I was once privileged to serve. Both were first formed in the mid-17th century. They were, in essence, The King’s mounted ‘military’ bodyguards and companions in a world where kings rode and only tended to walk when they reached their destination. They ride close to the monarch and will, doubtless, be the closest riders to the Gold State Coach. However, as I write this, the actual composition (who exactly will be marching/riding where) is a closely guarded secret.
The Household Cavalry has two weapons. The first is obvious: a sword, carried unsheathed in the right hand, ready for action. This is the 1892 Pattern Officer’s or, for non-officers, Trooper’s sword; a heavy-duty, cut-and-thrust weapon with a single-edged blade and a wickedly sharp point. Yes, they might look somewhat ceremonial with their regimental cyphers etched (troopers) or worked in brass (officers) on to their elegant hilts, but these swords were used in anger by The Life Guards during the Boer War. The second Household Cavalry weapon is more than half a ton of well-schooled ‘charger’ to knock any evil-doer out of the way or, indeed, just get in the way. And should anyone think that the Household Cavalry are just ceremonial soldiers, think again. Everyone present will have soldiered in the armoured ‘Service’ regiment, which has seen action in every modern war, including the Falklands War. A well-armed, highly mobile, highly trained, close guard.
Known to the press (and hereafter) as the Gentlemen at Arms, although they refer to themselves as the Body Guard.
We TV viewers probably only became aware of this venerable body of Royal bodyguards and attendants during the late Queen’s funeral. They not only stood guard beside her coffin in Westminster Hall, along with other Household ‘Guards’, but then marched alongside her coffin, dramatic in their distinctive white swan feather-plumed helmets. Their uniform was designed by Prince Albert in the 1840s. They wear a heavy cavalry-type scarlet ‘coatee’ (a jacket with tails, much like a morning coat at the back) while for offensive/defensive operations they carry vicious, 300-year-old poleaxes. Sheathed, heavy cavalry swords hang from their belts.
Founded by Henry VIII in 1509, they were his personal bodyguard, originally mounted but then on foot. They accompanied their kings into battle until the end of the Civil War; his literal last line of defence. Speaking at their 500th anniversary in 2009, The Queen said, “The evils against which the sovereign required protection in 1509 have I expect changed a little over the years, but the loyalty of the Body Guard remains undimmed,” and praised them as her “nearest guard”.
The 27 Gentlemen at Arms and four of their five officers – their Captain and senior officer is usually the Government Chief Whip in the House of Lords and a political appointee – qualify as ‘old and bold’. They join in their early fifties and retire at 70 at the latest. All are ex-military. As for ‘bold’, they boast 12 past holders of the Victoria Cross among their alumni. While no longer exactly young, they need to stay fit. Come the day of the 2023 Coronation procession, they will be on parade – some marching, others in the Abbey – in full kit and in perfect order for about two and a half hours: enough to stress many 20-year-olds. Their poleaxes are a medieval relic, albeit a fearsome one. The ‘pole’ part refers to the poll or skull of an enemy’s helmet, which the four-pointed hammer (one of the weapon’s three heads) is designed to crush or penetrate. The spear on the end is designed to spear a person or stop a charging horse. And the axe part is perfect for lopping limbs off the ungodly. Drop your poleaxe? Reach for your 1887 Pattern Heavy Cavalry fighting sword. Unsurprisingly, this ancient and near-impossible-to-replace kit is held centrally and issued when required.
Known as the Yeomen of the Guard (Yeomen hereafter)
The formation of the Yeomen predates even that of the Gentlemen at Arms. At the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, the culmination of the Wars of the Roses, the future King Henry VII’s bodyguards held off a ferocious attack by King Richard III and his bodyguards, during which Richard was killed and Henry won the throne. By way of a thank-you, it is believed Henry formally established the survivors as his personal guard and records describe 50 Yeomen escorting him to his subsequent coronation. Thereafter the Yeomen became the monarch’s close protection troops, whether in battle or at home. The ones who stood outside his bedroom door at night kept assassins – of whom there was no shortage back then – at bay.
The Yeomen of the Guard are today all ex-NCOs, although their Captain is the Deputy Chief Whip of the Lords. Each must have reached sergeant rank (or equivalent in the Royal Navy or Royal Air Force), have 22 years’ service and hold the Long Service and Good Conduct medal as a minimum. They comprise 73 officers and Yeomen, who can join as young as 42 years old and must retire aged 70. They wear a distinctive ‘Tudor’ uniform – circa Henry VIII’s time – of a long red tunic topped with a white ruff, with gold embroidered emblems featuring the crowned Tudor rose, the shamrock and the thistle, the Royal motto and the monarch’s initials. Red knee breeches and stockings complete the uniform. Their primary weapon is an eight-foot-long partisan, a broad-headed spear with lethal spikes at either side; a derivation of the halberd, the armour-killing weapon of choice for non-noble fighters from the later Middle Ages onwards. From the 16th to the 18th centuries these polearms (this time meaning a sharpened steel head on a pole) were often extravagantly decorated. They were the standard close protection weapons for the bodyguards of European emperors, kings and princes. The finer the decoration the wealthier the ruler obviously was, but the steel used is invariably of the finest. These weapons might be intended to impress but they were primarily designed to kill.
The Yeomen also carry a 24in-blade short sword (hanger) at their hip. This is for a sound military reason; imagine fighting with an unwieldy, eight-foot polearm while a ‘long’ sword swings around your legs and ankles. It would be distracting at the very least, possibly fatal should you trip over it. These well-armed Yeomen will be marching alongside The King on the day, as will their similarly armed and attired (only an extra belt worn from over the left shoulder distinguishes them) and equally formidable cousins The Yeomen Warders of His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London – the ‘Beefeaters’.
Another ancient order but Scottish. Formally established as the Royal Company in 1676 and granted a Royal Charter in 1704, they have acted as the sovereign’s bodyguard in Scotland since 1822. We TV viewers saw them in their dark green military uniforms – unchanged since 1863 – worn with their distinctive matching bonnet, topped with an impressively long eagle’s feather, marching smartly and standing guard at Her Late Majesty’s funeral. They will do so again on 6 May in the 2023 Coronation procession. However, again as the name implies, these chaps carry longbows and, on parade, three steel-tipped arrows tucked into their belt, allowing them to take down the ungodly at a goodly range. What’s more, as part of their raison d’être, they practise their archery and compete for a number of prizes, including what is the oldest archery prize in the world and possibly the world’s oldest sporting prize: the Musselburgh Silver Arrow, which dates back to 1603.
Archers, who are not necessarily ex-military, although those on parade probably will be (it takes more than a few weekends to learn ‘proper’ drill), buy their own ‘fitted for them’ longbows as well as their ‘archer’s’ swords. This is a distant nod to the archers of Crécy and Agincourt, who knew better than to be hampered by a long sword around their legs as they fired but, when the enemy was on the ground, or too close to shoot, dropped their bows and went in with their long knives.
So, on 6 May, there will be sharp steel everywhere in the 2023 Coronation procession. Representatives of all the British military will be on parade, thousands of them. Cavalry officers will carry their 1912 Pattern swords, non-officers the 1908 Pattern (the former an officer version of the latter) – deemed by many as the best British cavalry sword ever made. Infantry officers will carry their 1897 Pattern swords (with regimental variations). These are fine weapons that have proved themselves in many battles. Scottish infantry carry claymores, obviously. Ditto officers from different corps who will carry their various different ‘Pattern’ swords.
Numerous infantry will march and line the route (Route Liners). Each will carry an SA80 rifle complete with LA31 bayonet. Used in extremis and with good effect in both Iraq and Afghanistan, those sharp steel bayonets would be lethal on The Mall if required. And, finally, if that were not enough, in the Abbey itself the four great double-handed Swords of State will be carried close to His Majesty The King during the service. They might be ancient coronation symbols of Royal power but they are also, like all the weapons carried on the day, serious killing steel if needs be.
]]>Reddit users who have survived catastrophic events, such as plane crashes, shipwrecks, earthquakes and more, have been sharing their most harrowing stories, so we’ve gathered some of their captivating tales down below. We’ll warn you right now that these recollections might unlock some new fears within you, pandas, but they’re also a testament to how resilient humans are. So enjoy reading these inspiring stories, and be sure to upvote the ones you'd like to see turned into films!
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That’s why the gallery of arguably every cat owner is typically filled with ‘If I fits, I sits’ kind of moments and other gems depicting life with a feline. An abundance of such adorable pictures can be found on ‘The Cat Trap Is Working’ subreddit. Owners establish “traps” the kitties can’t resist—everyone knows that no box is left unoccupied when there’s a cat around—and watch them fall for the set up. We have gathered some of their best examples of cats being “trapped”, which you will find on the list below. Scroll down and enjoy the images of these derpy lovable creatures.
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]]>On the other hand, it’s well documented that living with secrets, especially the ones that are important to you, can drain your mental energy. The time and effort you put into thinking of them or making sure they remain well hidden can lead to depression and anxiety.
So no wonder so many people, when given a chance, would take an opportunity to share their secrets, big or small, anonymously. This is what happened in this Ask Reddit thread that served as a safe place for spilled secrets people got tired of carrying on their shoulders.
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Get on board with Dollar Tree’s new home decor collection! ⚓️
Hustle over to Dollar Tree where they recently released this year’s new Shore Living Coastal Collection! Featuring charming nautical designs, this collection includes dinnerware, kitchen items, craft supplies, and a TON of home decor items.
Even better, most of these items are available both in-store and online! However, note that ordering online requires a minimum bulk order.
Popular collections usually sell fast, so pop into your local store soon to start decorating your home with these coastal buys!
Shore Living Dinner Plate
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (12 pieces) for a total of $15.
Shore Living Ceramic Bowl
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (12 pieces) for a total of $15.
Shore Living Ceramic Mug 16oz
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (12 pieces) for a total of $15.
Shore Living White Sand Dollar Decor 3-Pack
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (48 pieces) for a total of $60.
Shore Living Clear Glass Bottles
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Square Frosted Bottle with Fish Charms
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Shell Dish
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Glass Candleholders with Handles
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Beaded Hanging Charm 2-Pack
Only $1.25
Shore Living Kitchen Towels
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Sea Life Kitchen Towels
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Decorative Clothes Pins 6-Pack
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Crafter’s Square Shore Living Wood Frame
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Framed Bead Square Signs
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Coat Hanger Decor
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Crafter’s Square Shore Living Nautical Ship Anchor Wall Decor
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Crafter’s Square Shore Living Wooden Mermaid Tails
Only $1.25
*Note that if shopping online, there is a minimum order of one case (24 pieces) for a total of $30.
Shore Living Seahorse Wall Decor
Only $1.25
Crafter’s Square Shore Living Nautical Wire Shell – in-store only
Only $1.25
Shore Living Nautical Wood Bead Garland – in-store only
Only $1.25
Shore Living Nautical Collapsible Storage Container – in-store only
Only $1.25
Shore Living Nautical Ceramic Fish Decor – in-store only
Only $1.25
Shore Living Nautical Bath Bombs – in-store only
Only $1.25
Throw your kiddos a unicorn-themed birthday party using Dollar Tree supplies!
Dollar Tree
Choose free store pick-up; otherwise shipping charges are based on your zip code. Note that some items have a small handling fee.
!doctype>]]>Beeswax wraps are an environmentally friendly solution to remove reliance on plastic wrap to seal food leftovers or protect a sandwich when placed in a lunch bag.
There are so many benefits to using beeswax wraps and making your own can be a fun, family craft project. Everyone can get involved to make their own personalised wraps for everyday use.
If you research online how to make your own Beeswax Wraps, there are so many recipes and methods to choose from. However, choosing the best ingredients possible will ensure a successful wrap that can be re-used time and time again.
Choosing Australian Made beeswax, ensures you’re getting a superior product free of contaminants and additives. Best of all, you’re supporting Australian Made, which is a good feeling when trying to buy local.
For our beeswax wraps, I’ve chosen May Gibbs fabric because I love the illustrations. It also extends the theme further with a bit of Australian flora and fauna, from a well-known late Australian-based artist.
More hands are required with this method as you’re using a double boiler and don’t want the glass bottle to touch the bottom of the pot. Also, as there is boiling water involved, it’s best to have an adult work with the boiling water parts of the project.
1. Wash your chosen fabric before turning them into beeswax wraps as cotton will shrink. Use serrated scissors to create a crimped end to your fabric. This is to prevent it fraying. Choose sizes that will work well for the uses you intend, so squares of 20cm x 20cm or rectangles of 30cm x 20cm.
2. Fill a pot with water and put it on the boil. Turn your oven on to 150 degrees Celsius.
3. Grate the block of beeswax into the glass jar. You can grate into a bowl first and then empty this into the jar. You want to grate 1 cup of beeswax. Add the grated beeswax to your jar.
4. Add the jojoba oil and pine resin to the jar. Line your baking trays with baking paper and place your fabric ready on the lined trays. The baking paper will catch the wax mixture drips.
5. Place the glass jar into the boiling pot of water. You will need to use an oven mitt and tongs to hold the jar over the pot. This method was used to use the existing pots and jars at home, but you may have a colander that can be inserted into the boiling pot to support your jar as the ingredients melt.
6. Use a spoon or paddle pop stick to mix the ingredients to ensure they are melted together. This stick or spoon will need to be discarded after mixing the ingredients.
7. Once the mixture is well melted and mixed, place on a trivet (to protect your kitchen bench) and use the paint brush to paint the beeswax mixture onto the fabric. Ensure the fabric is well coated with the mixture. Keep painting fabric until the mixture is used up.
8. Place the baking tray into the oven for 5 minutes.
9. Remove the trays and allow to cool for 1 minute. Peel the beeswax wrap off the baking paper and allow it to air dry with a sway or you can use the pegs and coat hanger to dry your wrap outside.
10. Once the beeswax wrap is dry, it is ready for use!
The key benefits to using beeswax wrappers are they are environmentally friendly and reduce plastic waste when wrapping food. They can be re-used and washed with water and mild detergent between uses and a freezer friendly.
Another not well-known benefit to using beeswax wrappers is the health benefits as beeswax has antibacterial properties so it gives peace of mind when wrapping food as it’s a safer way to seal.
]]>What else would you make of your windows and doors?
The post 19 Ideas for Transforming Old Doors and Windows Into Unique Furniture appeared first on Handimania.
]]>our favorite hacks for the best sleep ever
Opting for eco-friendly options while shopping (or shopping secondhand—thrifting for the win always) is one of the best and most fun ways to reduce your carbon footprint, so why not start now? To get you going, we’ve rounded up 15 of our favorite sustainable brands across fashion, beauty, and home decor that will easily become your new go-tos. Going green has never looked so good.
Not only does Everlane have some of the best jeans in the game, but their commitment to being as eco-friendly as possible is beyond impressive. So far, they’ve eliminated 90% of virgin plastics from their supply chain, switched to organic cotton for a majority of their cotton items, aligned their carbon footprint with the Paris Agreement, and so much more. This year, they even launched a special Earth Day collection made from recycled materials:
There’s a reason why “We believe quality products can elevate your life” is Quince’s slogan. Through minimalistic packaging, timeless styles, sustainably produced materials, and factories committed to responsible production, they diligently do their part in putting an end to fast fashion culture. Some of our editors’ favorite items? Their viral under-$50 cashmere sweater and huge selection of washable silk apparel.
If you’re in the market for some outdoorsy attire, Patagonia is one of the best sustainable brands to turn to. Almost 95% of their clothing line uses completely recycled materials or organically grown cotton. Plus, their Worn Wear program lets you buy lightly used pieces at a discounted rate—because at the end of the day, the best thing we can do for the planet is buy less clothing.
Pact puts their money where their mouth is. They partner with Fair Trade USA, Global Organic Textile Standard, and SimpliZero to ensure both their products and processes support both people and the planet. That includes using organic cotton, supporting fair trade factories, and leaving a net-zero carbon footprint.
“Being naked is the #1 most sustainable option. We’re #2.” You can credit Reformation with what is probably the best eco-friendly slogan ever. The brand uses deadstock fabric and other organic materials, prioritizes water conservation, and has a RefCycling program that gives you real store credit for returning your old Reformation brand items you no longer want.
With a zero waste initiative at the core of their brand values, REN uses only 100% recyclable packaging, as well as sustainable and up-cycled ingredients in all of their products to create one of the cleanest skincare brands out there.
Axiology’s mission is to end plastic waste in beauty—and they’re doing a kick-ass job so far. In an effort to lower the amount of plastic waste that ends up in our oceans and landfills, they’re committed to creating 100% plastic-free, vegan, and cruelty-free beauty products. Also, all of their products are multi-use for lips, cheeks, and eyes, which means you can purchase fewer products (always a plus).
From sustainable packaging to ingredient sourcing, manufacturing, and every other step in the process, Aveda consistently goes the extra mile to ensure that all of their beauty products are made with the planet’s well-being in mind.
Knowing that 30% of all waste is credited to cosmetics, Elate understands that less is more. The brand’s focus is creating a capsule of high-quality, reusable, and recyclable products. The goal is to save you the energy and money that comes with cluttering your makeup bag, while sparing landfills from even more waste than they already face.
With PURR Skincare, there’s no beating around the bush: Sustainability is the #1 priority. By using consciously sourced ingredients and packaging free from chemicals and preservatives, PURR makes it easy to lock down a simple regimen that’s gentle on your skin and the environment.
Our Place’s sustainable and ethically made cookware and drinkware might be just the excuse you need to throw that cute dinner party you’ve been meaning to have with your friends. Plus, their infamous Always Pan replaces eight traditional cookware items (once again, buying less!) and will last for years.
If big-box store home decor isn’t your thing, take a look at Uncommon Goods’ selection. They partner with makers from all over the world who craft one-of-a-kind products you can’t find elsewhere, with all of them including the list of materials used. On top of that, a portion of every order is donated through their Better to Give program to organizations such as American Forests and more.
This Canadian lifestyle brand prides itself on being a purpose-led platform that partners with artisans from across the globe for small-batch, high-quality, sustainable designs. Within the company is the Obakki Foundation, which ensures that their artisans have access to basic needs and the ability to provide for and thrive in their own communities.
At Village Thrive, thoughtful consumption is at the root of everything. All of their products are handcrafted in small batches using natural, sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, straw, and clay. If you’re looking to add a boho touch to your home, you’ll find everything you’re looking for right here.
The Citizenry is working to prove that business can be a force for good and that ethical craft and elevated design can meet in the middle. They celebrate the creators behind their handmade pieces from around the world and understand that sustainability goes beyond the product itself—everyone should be supported and treated fairly along the way, too.
The post 15 Editor-Favorite Sustainable Brands That Make It Easy to Shop Consciously appeared first on The Everygirl.
]]>If you’ve been living in your current apartment for an extended period of time, you already know how easy it is to accumulate too much stuff over the years mindlessly. Maybe you’ve upgraded a few pieces of furniture here and there, stocked up on some seasonal home decor items when they went on sale, or just made some quick impulse buys on your last few Target runs. (Who among us hasn’t?) Suddenly, a few years later, you’re asking yourself: How did I get so much stuff? And where am I going to put it all?
If you’re limited on space in your apartment, storage can be a major issue. Studio apartments, one-bedroom floor plans, and condos all share this struggle. Sometimes it may even feel like living in a small apartment is the ultimate game of Tetris, trying to maximize every inch of storage space, so everything fits perfectly. But we’ll let you in on a secret: Usually, the solution to a lack of storage in small apartments isn’t owning less or investing in more space— it’s just learning how to better utilize the space you already have to suit your current needs and lifestyle.
So before you decide to become a minimalist overnight or start searching the Internet for a bigger apartment in your area, check out our top small apartment storage ideas below. You might be surprised by how just a little ingenuity and creativity goes a long way. (Even when your living quarters are limited to one room.)
Unless you have shallow ceilings, most studio apartments have unused space right above our heads. So if you need storage in a small space, think vertically. Shelves can be relatively cheap and easy to mount on the walls if your landlords allow it. They also keep your floors open and uncluttered, which makes cleaning a breeze. Plus, you’ll be able to see precisely what you have at all times since everything on them is visible.
If you live in a studio apartment, dividing out space is one of your first challenges. Before you (quite literally) divide and conquer, consider what you will use to separate the room. Implementing a cubed shelving unit or open-backed bookshelf will provide much more storage space. Pro tip: Use open shelves to get as much light to pass through the divider as possible. Closed-off shelving units aren’t ideal, as they can make an already small apartment feel much more cramped and crowded.
There are a few different ways to make the most of your furniture choices in a small apartment. Most importantly, the furniture needs to fit the space. Don’t purchase anything too bulky or oversized. If you’re buying brand new (or at least new-to-you) furniture for a studio or one-bedroom, it’s a good idea to be prepared with your floor plan measurements first.
Secondly, make use of multi-functional furniture that has built-in concealed storage space. Some things look great in the open, like books, records, travel souvenirs, or decor pieces. But most of the time, it’s best to keep items concealed in small spaces to avoid the area looking cluttered.
People who successfully live in small apartments do so by having excellent organizational habits. Everything needs a place, or else clutter in an otherwise clean home will build up in no time. Think about ways to process your stuff so you can stay organized and your storage space is utilized to its fullest potential.
If you have a dedicated entryway in your small apartment, it doesn’t have to be grand or large. Even if you don’t, you can easily create one with some creativity and purposeful placement of furniture and decor pieces. After all, dragging coats and shoes through a studio apartment is not only inconvenient but it’s also unrealistic. More often than not, these items will get tossed somewhere near the exit every time you enter the apartment. So you might as well create a space where they can be stored daily!
Let’s say you’ve tried all of the small apartment storage hacks in the book— from multi-functional furniture to vertical storage solutions— and you still feel crammed into your tiny apartment. It may be time to take a long, hard look at your belongings to see if you can part with anything. After all, living in a small apartment (or any sized apartment, for that matter) means you’re confined to a finite number of square feet. That means you need to be extra intentional about each and every item you bring into your space.
Decluttering and downsizing your small apartment doesn’t mean you need let go of the things that bring you joy immediately. Simply work your way through your apartment room by room (or section by section, if you live in a studio!) and make four piles: Keep, donate, sell, and toss. Try to be as honest as possible during the process, asking yourself what you really need to keep and what’s just taking up space that can be used for other things.
Learn more about the four-pile sorting method for downsizing and decluttering in our article How to Downsize Your Home in 6 Simple Steps. If you’re interested in selling unused items to make extra money, our article on The Best Resale Apps to Help You Downsize and Declutter Your Home is for you.
Even without built-in storage spaces, living in a studio or one-bedroom apartment is a feasible lifestyle (if you’re considering moving to any major city like New York City, Chicago, or Los Angeles, you may not have another option.). It may take a bit of creativity, but you’d be surprised by all of the small apartment storage ideas people come up with!
If you’ve used any of the above storage solutions or have your own foolproof tips you’d like to share, feel free to share them with us on social media.
Update: This post was originally published on February 12th, 2017, by Lauren Thomann. It was revised on January 5th, 2019, with new information from Molli Spear, and was revised again on March 17th, 2023, with further information from Emily Malkowski.
This post 6 Ingenious Small Apartment Storage Ideas to Maximize Space appeared first on Life Storage Blog.
]]>I was walking around at Michael’s the other day and fell head-over-heals in love with this charging plate in the Easter section. The bright colored plaid is just so cute! Right then and there I decided to turn it into a door hanging so I would have an excuse to buy it. LOL.
I’ve made a charger plate into a door hanger before and it turned out great. You can see the fall charger plate wreath here. This is a fun and easy craft project that pretty much anyone can do. I’ve got a few tips to help you along the way, so follow along with the instructions and don’t miss the video tutorial at the end of the post.
Let me show you how to make your very own spring charger plate door hanging.
Be sure to watch the video at the end of this post if you have any questions about how to make this craft.
Step 1- Cut a piece of scrapbook paper just slightly larger than the wooden rectangle. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the wood, then press the scrapbook paper in place, smoothing out any air bubbles.
Step 2- Use sandpaper to sand away any excess paper hanging off the edges of the wood. This works best if you stroke the sandpaper from front to back so the paper doesn’t lift up. This is the trick to getting perfect edges any time you attach paper to wood. Sanding gives you perfect edges!
Step 3- Apply a top coat of Mod Podge to the paper to help it hold up to the elements outside.
Step 4- Make a swag of spring floral stems and use florist wire to hold them together in the middle.
Step 5- Attach the end of a piece of ribbon to the charger plate. Glue the center of the swag to the ribbon, then fold the ribbon back down over the florals and glue them in place. This will be the hanging loop. Glue a decorative bow over the bottom of the ribbon loop to hide the seams and for extra cuteness.
Step 6- Remove the wire from the decorative wooden pick. When the Mod Podge is dry on your rectangle, glue the boots onto the rectangle, then glue the rectangle onto the charger plate.
A NOTE ABOUT GLUE: I used hot glue for this project, but if your plate will be in a hot, sunny area, sometimes that can cause the hot glue to melt and your project will come unglued. If that’s a possible problem for you, I recommend using the E-6000 glue instead. I have no hopes that it will get that hot on my door this spring… it’s way too cold here for that! Waaaaaaaaaa… that’s me crying. I miss warm sunshine.
Once the glue is dry, your charger plate wreath is ready to hang on your front door this spring!
Like this project? Pin it!
The post Easy Spring Charger Plate Door Hanger appeared first on The Craft Patch.
]]>You may have started hearing the phrase ‘life hack’ and wondered what it meant? Well, it’s a newly minted word for an old expression – basically a life hack is a tip. Something that makes things easier and makes you think “that’s a good idea”.
Here are a few of our favourite life hacks from Field readers.
If you live in an old house that has more than its fair share of squeaky doors, rather than use oil on the hinges, use vaseline. It doesn’t run and leave streaks on the paintwork.
VB – Devon (April 2023)
If I have any vegetables that are starting to sprout or wrinkle, instead of throwing them away, I peel, dice and sauté them. Once cool, I freeze them and they make an excellent addition to soups, stews and pasties.
FG, Shropshire (March 2023)
Sorting out drawers for the new year I came across quite a few odd socks, their companion long gone. I have found they make excellent cleaning and polishing mitts, slip them over your hand and get to work, they seem to reach in a variety of tight places.
SB Cumbria (January 2023)
I find hanging a hot water bottle inside a wet coat really helps speed up the drying process. Place the coat on a decent hanger and suspend the hot water- bottle, better than hanging over a radiator which can potentially damage your coat. (Read how to repair a wax jacket.)
LHB by email (December 2022)
A neat trick if you have a leaking vase, make sure the vase is dry, then melt some wax and patch the leak.
BS Hertfordshire (November 2022)
A handy little trick to clean up a diamond ring is to place a denture tablet in a glass of water, place your ring in the glass and leave for 3 or 4 minutes. Remove the ring and rinse thoroughly to reveal its former sparkle and shine. Perfect after a good morning in the garden.
LMC – Winchester (November 2021)
With visitors now able to come and stay, I have noticed that the drawers in a chest have got sticky. I was recommended to rub the bottom of the drawer and the supports they rest on with a bar of soap. Works a treat, my advice is to choose a mildly scented soap!
PL. Kent (October 2022)
Sage is great for helping prevent foot odour, I tend to crumble a couple of leaves into my boots before I put them on and at the end of the day shake out the remains. The sage helps kill the bacteria that grows on feet in warm moist environments, with the added bonus of helping the boot room smell sweeter. (Read how to remove dog odour from your car.)
JK Norfolk (September 2022)
It’s that time of year again and I hate flies circling the room. I am loathe to spray a cloud of poisonous aerosol into the space I share with dogs et al… The very effective and non-poisonous solution I have found is: spray a cloud of hair spray into their flight path. A word of warning though, it might not endear you to the owner of the hair spray . . ..
M-AC by email (August 2022)
A useful tip from granny, if your bag of brown sugar goes hard, soak a cork, completely submerge it in cold water, for about 20 minutes. Then push the cork into the hard sugar, seal or cover the bag and in about an hour it should be soft.
TW Cumbria (July 2022)
We eat a lot of boiled eggs and until last year, the water used was just tipped down the sink. Now I let it cool and use the nutrient-filled water to water plants.
MT by email (June 2022)
During the warmer months to stop your houseplants drying out, repot them, but tuck a damp sponge into the bottom of the pot before filling it with soil. The sponge acts a bit like a reservoir plus has the added advantage of holding the water if the pot is overwatered.
Mary W – Kent (April 2022)
After a long, damp and cold winter the boot room is in a sad way, a water mark on the ceiling and various small stains. Until the new puppy has grown there is no point repainting but rubbing a stick of white chalk over the marks until it has lightened and in some cases disappeared has made all the difference. It’s a neat trick.
AS Lincolnshire (March 2022)
When decanting your sloe gin, save the sloes and pop them into the freezer. They add an extra alcoholic dimension to a cocktail and are particularly good in a Sloegasm.
WH, Berkshire (February 2022)
A hose pipe seems to have many uses, when your drainpipe and guttering are clogged with leaves I find pushing a hose up the drain pipe and poking it through dislodges the blockage easily, without the need to turn the hose on, as the water in the gutter flushes the debris out. Nice and simple.
DO Rutland (November 2022)
]]>Instead of calling a plumber, we have a few natural (and easy) steps you can take to try to unstop the sink yourself. Try one of these five methods for unclogging your bathroom or kitchen sink.
If you find yourself Googling “how to unclog a sink” you’re going to come across the tried-and-true baking soda and vinegar method. This effective solution has proven itself as an easy way to unclog a sink without using harsh chemicals like Drano.
Mix together ? cup of baking soda and ? vinegar to create a slightly fizzy solution. Immediately pour the mixture down the stopped drain so the fizzing action can effectively eat away at the grime and buildup in the drain. Allow the baking soda and vinegar solution to sit in the drain for about an hour before flushing it out with hot water. In some instances, you may need to flush the drains with boiling water afterward to remove larger clogs.
While this method does not have a 100% success rate, trying this method once or twice usually resolves the issue. If not, there are several other natural remedies you can try before calling for professional assistance.
We love easy solutions that utilize items that most households already have in their pantry. If the baking soda and vinegar solution didn’t work for you (or you don’t have those items on hand), we recommend trying another effective solution ? baking soda and salt.
In a bowl, combine ½ cup baking soda and ½ cup salt. Pour this mixture into the drain and allow it to sit in the drain for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes have passed, pour boiling water down the drain. The combination of boiling water, baking soda, and salt will have a chemical reaction within the drains and, as a result, unclog your bathroom or kitchen sink.
Sometimes the solution is as simple as boiling water. Whether you don’t have baking soda, vinegar, and salt on hand or you’re looking for the easiest solution, we recommend trying boiling water ? especially if you’re looking for how to unclog a bathroom sink that may be blocked by soap residue.
Boiling water works best at unstopping a sink when you’re experiencing slow draining and not a full blockage that causes a sink full of water. To see if this method will work for you, boil water on the stove or in an electric kettle. Once the water has reached a boil, pour the water directly down the drain. Repeat this process two to three times. If after two or three attempts you don’t see a noticeable difference, another method may be more effective at unclogging the sink.
You may find that you need a bit more than a simple solution that gets poured down the drain. That’s when it may be time to bring in your plunger as a reinforcement. While flat-bottomed plungers are the preferred tool for unclogging a sink, most households have a toilet plunger and that can be used to get the job done effectively.
To begin, fill the clogged sink with hot water until it’s half full. Then, place the plunger over the drain and begin pumping quickly for at least 20 seconds. Every now and then you will want to remove the plunger to see if the water has started draining. Repeat the process of pumping the plunger up and down over the seal until the water runs freely down the drain. If you find that the plunger isn’t making a difference with the clog, it may be time to consider another option.
While you likely don’t have a plumber’s snake simply lying around, this tool can be good to keep on hand for situations like this. If the clog is too large to be remedied by one of the natural solutions we covered earlier, you may need to opt for a plumber’s snake to reach down into the drain and remove the blockage. The coiled snake can be snaked through the drain and when a blockage is found, you can use the handle to dislodge the grime and pull it out of the drain.
However, we understand that not everyone has a plumber’s snake on hand. As an alternative, you can create a makeshift plumber’s snake with a wire coat hanger. Use pliers to unwind the hanger into a long piece of wire. The hooked end of the wire hanger will be used to grab onto the debris and remove it from the drain.
If you’ve tried a number of these methods and you haven’t been able to unclog your bathroom or kitchen sink, there may be a larger problem. We recommend calling your local plumber for a professional opinion.
Sometimes clogged drains slowly worsen over time. However, sometimes your kitchen sink may appear clogged out of nowhere. Kitchen sink drains can easily become clogged from cooking grease or starchy foods such as pasta or rice that expand in water. It’s important to resolve a clogged drain at the first sign of a problem to avoid it from worsening and becoming a costly problem down the line.
Now that we’ve covered how to unclog a sink drain, it’s important to understand what steps you can take to prevent future sink clogs from happening again. Avoid putting the following items down the drain:
Opt for throwing these items away in the trash or composting them when applicable to avoid clogging your sink.
Although Drano may provide some temporary relief for your clogged sink, it is extremely corrosive to your drains. The heat from the chemicals can put stress on your plumbing and soften or break the pipes. Depending on the condition of your pipes, Drano may result in a costly leak instead of resolving your plumbing problem.
The P-trap is the bend in your kitchen or bathroom drain that contains a pocket of water to block toxic, foul-smelling sewer gasses from traveling through the pipe into your home. However, because of the shape of this part of the plumbing, it can collect debris and leave you with a blocked drain. To clear a clogged P-trap, we recommend placing a small bucket under the trap with the water shut off. Then, use a large wrench to loosen the nut on the base of the trap to disassemble the P-trap. Once removed, you can clean out the grime and dirt inside the P-trap.
The post How to Unclog a Sink: 5 Natural (& Easy) Ways appeared first on Kitchen Cabinet Kings Blog.
]]>There are so many you’ll probably spend time choosing the perfect one. Let’s narrow it down a little. Below you can find our favorite DIY crafts and projects we think you should try.
DIY crafts are a great way to spend the afternoon and can be used to build a side income. But how can you be sure that you aren’t going to cause damage to your home in the process? Below are a few tips to help you make DIY crafts at home.
Whether or not your craft is described as messy in the directions, you should take the time to cover all surfaces of your home that you will be working on. This can be as simple as putting paper down on your table, or you may need to pick up a tarp to cover the furniture for larger projects.
Although you may be tempted to start experimenting with DIY crafts, it’s best to follow the instructions until you are sure you know how to make a specific project. That way you will know that the product you are making works and lessen your chances of injury or damage to your home.
Making a stool? Or maybe a DIY fireplace mantle? Before you stack your important and breakable things on these DIY crafts, take a minute to test them out. Put a little weight on them (maybe some rocks or books that won’t get damaged). One the DIY craft item proves it can hold the weight you want to place on it, then start putting your valuables on your DIY craft.
There is nothing more inconvenient than starting a DIY craft project and then realizing you skipped something on the supplies list. You could also jeopardize your project when you do this. Avoid the problem and double check your supply list before you begin.
Looking to make DIY crafts so you can amass a little extra cash? It is definitely possible. You’ll want to follow a few steps to get started.
Before you can sell something, you need to master making it. Otherwise, you won’t be able to fill the orders when they begin to flood in. Therefore you should spend plenty of time perfecting your craft before moving on to step 2.
Next, you will want to find a place to sell your crafts. There are many websites that offer these services. You will want to compare a few of them to find out which is the best deal for sellers and which you would feel the most comfortable building a business relationship with.
Changing platforms later is very annoying. It is better to take your time now and ensure the platform you choose is right for you.
You may think that it is easier to make crafts as people order them, but there is a chance you could receive more orders than you can handle at once. For this reason, you should have at least some products in stock before you open your shop.
Remember, you are doing this to be profitable. While you are making this stock, write down everything you spend to make your products. Then, calculate how much it costs to make a single product. You’ll want to take shipping into account as well, ensuring that your items are priced high enough to still leave you with a profit at the end of the day.
Sound like a good idea? All you have to do now is find a craft you can master and sell. Scroll down to check out or list of 50 DIY crafts that could be made and sold for a profit.
Many people don’t think they can do DIY crafts because they don’t have the funds to get started. What you may not know, is that there is a whole host of DIY projects that can be made from paper, which costs almost nothing. Some of these DIY crafts are even nice enough to sell.
DIY Paper Crafts:
As you can see, you don’t need a lot of money to get started with DIY crafts, just some paper and your imagination will do.
The specific homemade crafts that are high in demand will change frequently depending on the market, as well as the tastes of consumers. Therefore, it can be difficult to pin point exactly what craft to make that will fly off the shelves.
Currently, these are the types of DIY crafts that are high in demand:
If you don’t see your favorite craft on this list, don’t despair, as your DIY craft could be the next big thing. Remember that you never know until you try.
For those feeling a bit bored, DIY crafts are the perfect way to fill your time. You not only will have something to do to cure your boredom, but you will also be creating a project that you can probably use around your home.
These are the best DIY crafts to do when you are bored:
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Want to add some color to your home? Flowers are always a nice idea. The real ones can be a handful and don’t really last long so if you want something long-term then craft some faux flowers. This yarn billy ball bouquet looks super cute and you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find out it’s really easy to make as well.
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Accent pillows are great for making a room look and feel extra warm and cozy but they’re not really of much help if they blend in too much. Luckily, there’s an easy way to fix that by decorating the pillows with fabric flower embellishments. All you need is some fabric scraps, scissors, a needle, and some thread and surely you must be able to gather these things with ease.
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This is a really cool way of using test tubes. The project is simple, unusual, and quirky, exactly the kind that stands out and sticks in your brain. You can make this test tube vase even more interesting by using a piece of driftwood or reclaimed wood for the base.
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A nice-looking soap dispenser can really brighten up the bathroom even though it may not seem like much. It’s the details that give a space charm and make it special.
With that in mind, we thought you’d enjoy the look of this Mason jar soap dispenser which is really easy to do. The only thing that takes a bit of time is waiting for the paint to dry so once that’s out of the way it’s all pretty much done.
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These floral napkin rings look absolutely adorable and they’re made with succulent clippings and flowers. They capture the fresh beauty of spring with their design and they’re perfect for any special occasion. You can potentially also use faux flowers if you want to preserve the rings for longer.
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Terrariums are great decorations and perfect for preserving little mementos such as seashells, tiny pinecones, and other things. If you have one, perhaps you’d like to make a stylish base for it so it stands out a bit more.
This geometric terrarium base is a nice and fairly simple craft project and you can have it customized however you want, even give it a different shape.
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If you’ve never used concrete in any of your DIY projects, now would be a good time to start. This concrete succulent planter is super easy to make and there are lots of different ways in which you can customize it.
Its size and shape are dictated by the container that you choose to use as a mold. To get this look you can use a baking tray.
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Air plants, as you probably know, are super low maintenance and don’t require soil which means you can display them in all sorts of cool and interesting ways. If you want something simple and small to keep on your desk or to place on a shelf, this air plant stand should work really well. Its base is just a wood block cube with a floral wire sticking out.
If you think one of the areas in your home could use a bit of accent lighting in it, this is a really nice to do that. What you see here is a paper star lantern and to make it you need a sheet of poster board, a cord light set, a low temperature light bulb, and some tools. The actual star template that you use can be something you’ve designed yourself.
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You might be thinking that making your own furniture from scratch is way too difficult and out of your comfort zone but not all projects are complex or difficult. Some are actually super simple, like this upholstered footstool for example. Anyone can make one of these and it’s a lot of fun to come up with a color scheme and a design for it.
Perhaps your next project can be something useful, something to help you organize your things better. A jewelry holder could be a nice idea.
This one is easy to make and can be customized in lots of ways. You can install it on a wall or any vertical flat surface and it will keep all your necklaces and bracelets organized and accessible plus it will look nice as a decoration.
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You know those secret bookcase entrances and contraptions we sometimes see in movies? They’re pretty cool so how about you make something like that for yourself?
It doesn’t have to be an entire room hidden behind a bookcase but you can surely make a book box hiding spot, like a little secret space where you can hide things and disguise the whole thing as a set of books.
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Another thing you could do is give some of your furniture pieces a makeover. For example, you can paint vinyl upholstery in case any of your chairs or other pieces have it and that would change the look of the whole room. You can use spray paint for that and it’s actually easiest than you might think.
Next time you come across a self-adhesive cork strip in a store you should get a roll because it’s a useful thing to have around. You can use it to make all sorts of little things around the house, like this cork notice strip for instance.
You can put this next to your desk or in your kitchen and pin various things like notes, pictures, recipes, shopping lists, and so on.
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Every entryway needs a coat rack. Finding the right one is not easy but you can make things simpler by opting for a wood coat rack that you can make yourself. It can be as tall as you want and you can make it out of any type of wood you think suits your space best.
Mason jars are awesome because there are so many interesting and practical ways in which they can be repurposed, not just as storage containers but also as something completely unexpected. On that note, check out this mason jar desk lamp and picture all the nice ways in which you can customize it and make it your own.
Some things are only meant to be decorative and don’t really serve any practical purpose. They are however what makes a space feel like home.
This yarn fringe wall hanging is a nice example of something simple that you could craft in your spare time. Match it to your existing Bohemian decor and feel free to customize it in any way you see fit.
If you have a piece of wood handy, one of the things you can make with it is a serving tray. Sand it, stain it, paint it, add handles, and anything else that you think would improve the design and the experience.
You can use this tray when you’re serving drinks and snacks out on the patio or when you’re entertaining guests in your living room.
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Pipes are a lot more versatile than you might think, especially when it comes to industrial-style furniture and accessories. You can use them to make all sorts of cool things for your home, like this copper pipe magazine rack for example.
It’s such a simple project. All you need for it is a 2-meter pipe, 12 copper 90-degree connectors, a pipe cutter, and some strong adhesive.
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In case your patio or the outdoor deck could use some sprucing up, perhaps some planters could do the trick. You could make something yourself out of reclaimed materials. A wooden pallet planter could be a fun little project.
First, you take the pallet apart, then you cut some boards to size, and finally, you assemble the new planter. The best part is adding all the little details at the end.
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Paper is one of the most underrated resources when it comes to DIY projects. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used for just about anything.
Some of the best projects involving paper are focused around decorations, like this geo wall art for example. It’s a little something that you can hang on a wall or display on a shelf and even though it’s abstract it and simple it really brightens up the space around it.
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Making your own coasters is quite fun and satisfying. There are a ton of different designs you can try and lots of different materials that you can use.
If you prefer something minimalist, these X-shaped coasters are probably just what you’re looking for. They’re made of balsa wood strips and they can be painted in any color for like. The black sure suits their minimalism well.
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How many times have you thrown away empty cans without even thinking twice about it? After seeing these lovely tin can planters you might reconsider.
They look adorable, and they’re so easy to make you don’t have any excuse not to try this project. They’re great for little succulents or kitchen herbs.
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On the subject of DIY planters, there are a lot of different things that can be repurposed in order to make something really beautiful and special. A tree trunk or a log piece, even a tiny one, can be an amazing resource.
Drill out the center to make a hole for the soil and the plant. Also, it might be nice to spray paint a section of your new tree trunk planter just to add a bit of color to it.
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You can also put a few different glass jars to good use and make a lovely Mason jar centerpiece for the dining table. You can decorate the jars with seasonal items such as flowers, twigs, twine, tree clippings, etc.
This design right here has a nice fall-inspired vibe. If you’re making a spring or a summer centerpiece, something more colorful would look great.
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There’s not a lot you can do with an old sweater but there are still a few cool and interesting ways to repurpose it. One of the things you can do on a lazy afternoon when you’re bored is to turn a sweater into a planter cover.
It’s a cute little idea if you want to add a warm and cozy touch to your decor. This would make a nice winter project.
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If you have some leftover yarn from previous projects, it might be nice to use it to make some string wall art for your home. Mix and match different colors based on the supplies that are available to you.
All you need is a wooden dowel and a bunch of yarn, and you can make something eye-catching that makes your home feel extra cozy and inviting.
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Baskets are great not just as storage containers but also for some more unusual projects. A woven waste paper bin may not seem like a very interesting item but wait until you see it turned into a basket lampshade.
You can do something similar for your entryway or perhaps for the home office or the bedroom as a way to add some texture to the decor.
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You could even make a stylish light fixture from scratch, given enough time and the necessary resources. It’s actually not that difficult, especially if you make something small and simple like this swing sconce lamp for example.
Something like this would be perfect for a cozy reading corner or the bedroom. You could also add a small lampshade if you wanted to.
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Autumn is amazing because it gives us pumpkins and there are so many beautiful crafts that you can do with them. Mini pumpkins are absolutely adorable and these pumpkin votives are super lovely.
They’re made from real pumpkins, which are carved out and painted. Of course, it’s also possible to do something similar with faux pumpkins any time of the year but there’s something special about the scent of real pumpkins that makes this project extra special during fall.
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If you haven’t already, you should really try using chalkboard paint in one of your projects. It’s a lot of fun, and you can use the paint to make things that are not just cool to look at but also useful, like this framed chalkboard.
You can hang something like this in the kitchen or the entryway to write lists and messages on it. Make sure you pick a frame that reflects your style.
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On a similar board, a memo board wouldn’t be difficult to make at all and would make a nice addition to your workspace, especially if you’re working from home. This elastic memo board can be made from a simple piece of plywood and some elastic headbands, and you can customize it in all sorts of different ways using paint, washi tape, and other resources.
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You can always add more shelves to a space if you feel the need for some extra storage or a place to display some decorations. Usually, you’d need to drill holes into the walls when installing the shelves but there are also alternative solutions. This hanging rope shelf can be attached to the ceiling or to the underside of a cabinet.
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There are many different ways to decorate an empty wall. One of the most common options is to hang a bunch of framed pictures or some paintings, posters, and other similar things.
If you want to make your own wall art, you can simply print out some letters. Framed letter art is very versatile and there are many different ways to customize your own design if you decide to make something similar.
If you are looking to spruce up your fireplace this holiday season, consider adding this dried orange garland to your living room or entryway. As well as adding a fun decoration to the room, it will also add a pleasant citrusy scent.
All you’ll need to get started is a bag of oranges and a few kitchen supplies, which you are bound to have already. This quick and easy craft is one of our favorite ways to brighten your home for the holiday season.
When it comes to Halloween, it’s understandable not to want to spend a fortune decorating your home. You also may not want to cover up your lovely home décor with spooky decorations. If you want an inexpensive and subtle decoration to add to your home this year, create this Halloween yarn spider web.
It will take you very little effort to create, and you can add the finished spider web to any room in your home. Your kids will love having a few webs on their windows to get in the spooky mood this season.
Succulents have become incredibly popular to add to homes, adding some much-needed life to kitchens and living rooms. These cute little clay pots are easy to make and look beautiful to house your plants.
Succulents are such a low-maintenance plant to add to your home and require very little care and attention.
If you are looking for a fun craft to enjoy with your whole family, try out these baked sharpie plates. You’ll create something that’s really useful and that your kids will enjoy using every day. To make these plates, you’ll just need a selection of colorful Sharpies and to preheat your oven ready to finish off the project.
Essential oil reed diffusers make the perfect Christmas or birthday gift, and what better way to show someone how much you care than by creating one yourself. These essential oil diffusers will naturally fragrance the air as the essential oil serum travels up through the wooden reeds.
Use any oil of your choice to create a gift that your family and friends will love receiving this year.
This DIY cosmic trend inspired mousepad will add a fashionable touch to your office. Even with more people opting to use laptops today, mousepads are still an essential accessory for many computer users.
This cosmic design will add some personality to any desk and will look great no matter how your home office and desk are decorated.
We love adding new decorations to our Christmas tree each year, and this DIY button covered Christmas ball will sparkle wherever it’s placed in your home. Use any color and size buttons you like to customize this project to your tree’s décor.
We love the little pins that are used in this project, as they add a little extra sparkle to the ornament.
Hangers aren’t exactly the most exciting item in the home. However, will a little effort, you can create a stylish and pretty hanger that you’ll enjoy adding to your wardrobe. If you have an open wardrobe or like hanging clothes around your room, you’ll love the sleek and trendy look of these hangers.
For anyone who is looking for a simple DIY project to gift your friends and family this year, you’ll love these DIY felt ball coasters. As with most DIY projects, you can customize the color and size of each coaster to fit the recipient’s needs.
They will add a cozy touch to any table, and you could even give a matching mug with them to make a complete holiday gift this year.
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To create these beautiful Kusudama flower balls, you’ll just need origami paper, craft glue, and paper clips. They create stunning little flowers, which were originally used for potpourri and incense in ancient Japan.
You’ll love displaying these around your room or gifting them to your loved ones to put a smile on their face.
If you are bored of your usual pillows in your living room, create your own pom pom pillow. You’ll add a fun and fluffy border of pom poms to any pillow, which is a simple and cheap project for any room in your home. Choose a bright color that perfectly complements your pillow, and enjoy this creative and easy project today.
As you can see, we love using mason jars as the base for our DIY projects. This simple project guides you through painting mason jars, which offer an easy way to decorate on a budget.
We love the metallic paint used on these mason jars, and you’ll enjoy adding a statement piece to any room. Mason jars generally last forever, so this quick project will give you years of enjoyment.
If your kids love reading or playing video games on their summer break, they’ll love lounging about on this DIY kids bean bag. You are probably wondering how this is a quick and simple project, but you’ll be impressed to learn it takes just forty-five minutes to create this bean bag from start to finish.
The only thing you’ll need to be able to do is to sew on a zipper, and you’ll be ready to start this exciting DIY craft project.
Many DIYers are put off by fabric-based projects as they usually involve sewing. However, these DIY no-sew fabric napkins don’t use any sewing whatsoever in their creation.
It’s a budget-friendly project that can use up any fabric scraps around your home. Either choose a single color or pattern or mix things up with a selection of bold and fun colors and prints.
If you are short of Halloween decorations this year, have a go at turning your dish towels into Halloween pillows. You’ll brighten up any chair with these fun pillow covers, and you’ll barely spend anything in the process. You don’t have to finish up any edges when creating these pillows, as they are already done for you.
If you are sick of finding odd socks around your house, put them to good use with these DIY argyle sock vases. This is a fun way to add more character to any vase in your home and will add a quirky decoration to any countertop or side table.
All you’ll need to get started is a vase or glass jar, socks, a needle and thread, scrap fabric, and scissors.
Chances are you have at least a few books lying around your house. If not in your bedroom or living room, maybe in your kitchen or office.
Either way, DIY bookends are an easy craft that you can make in an afternoon but can add some pizazz to your home. Check out these cute dinosaur DIY bookends and consider making them for use in your home.
Decorating your home can be pricey, mainly due to the cost of acquiring art for your walls. Instead of breaking your carefully planned budget, try this easy craft to create art for your wall using just string and nails—two things you probably already have lying around the house.
You’ll be surprised and awed at how cute this project will turn out.
In the modern day, where everything is digital, it can be difficult to find a place to store and display cherished photos of your family. So next time you have a photo that you absolutely must display, consider making a DIY photo frame.
There are many ways you can do this, and this idea for a rope photo frame is an easy craft that won’t take you long to make.
Flowers are a beautiful addition to any home. But live plants can be difficult to care for and hard to have around when you have allergies. Instead, follow these instructions to make your very own paper flower bouquet that won’t wilt, need water, or cause any sneezing.
And don’t be afraid to switch up the paper style and color to make one of these for every room in your home.
Keeping your home organized can be difficult, especially when you have many small items covering every available surface. That’s when you should take the time to make this tin can organizer to store your hair ties, barrettes, and other small accessories.
It’s an easy craft that will only require some tin cans, decorative paper, and of course, your imagination.
When it comes to coasters, you will probably need more than one set. This is because most sets only have four pieces, and at some point, you will likely have more than four guests over.
So if you have already made the other coasters on this list, but still want more coasters, consider making these wooden coasters for an additional set. They are a quick, easy craft that you can customize to suit any style of décor.
For those that are taking the time to make multiple crafts on this list, you have probably acquired quite a collection of craft supplies. If these craft supplies are cluttering your drawers and countertop, then it’s time to make this DIY drawer organizer to keep everything in its place.
Don’t be afraid to make multiple of these in different colors and place them in every drawer in your home.
Just like your hair ties and barrettes can clutter every available surface, so can your jewelry. That’s when you should spend an afternoon making this rope jewelry basket for your home.
It’s an easy craft that can help you to stay more organized. And as with every project on this list, don’t be afraid to make three or four and give the others as gifts.
When you think of furniture, large DIY projects that take days to finish probably come to your mind. But did you know upgrading your headboard is actually an easy craft?
You’ll simply need some wood, foam, fabric, and then a drill to get the job done. This way you can save money and make the exact headboard you need to match your bedroom’s décor.
Vases are another item that you will need multiple of to keep your home organized and stylish. For this easy DIY craft, you will need some paint and the vases or milk jug that you want to upgrade.
Feel free to try metallic colors or even glitters if you like. This project is easy but a little messy, so be sure you also have cardboard or paper on hand to catch any extra paint.
Currently, the most popular DIY crafts are those items that are ‘upcycled’ or that the materials to make them came from something else. This is because many people are environmentally conscious about their purchases.
The DIY crafts that sell the best are personalized items for pets, bath products (such as soap and bath bombs) and bookmarks.
The easiest DIY craft to make are those that involve very few steps, such as a clothespin wreath or DIY no-sew cloth napkins.
Mod podge is a type of glue that is commonly used for DIY craft projects. It is unique because it can be used to attach many mediums to one another, such as fabric, paper, and even wood.
The age at which a child can help with a DIY craft will depend on the age and maturity of the child. Younger children as little as 5 or 6 can help with tasks like gluing and painting, but if your craft includes woodworking, or cutting, you may need to wait until your child is 11 or 12 to allow them to help.
You are never too old for DIY crafts. Anyone at any age, including adults, can make any DIY craft they please as long as they are physically able to.
Yes, as long as you price your DIY crafts properly, and find a site that won’t charge you an arm and a leg to sell them, selling DIY crafts is a very profitable business.
Which one of these 60 easy DIY crafts is you most excited to try first? These home projects are simple yet effective and will brighten up various rooms in your home this year.
Even if you are a complete beginner crafter, you’ll find something here for you to create. From there, you’ll gain even more confidence, and you’ll soon be trying out some of the more challenging DIY crafts on our site.
The post Fun And Simple DIY Crafts To Try In Your Spare Time appeared first on Homedit.
]]>Are you trying to make a man cave? Tuck yourself away in these badass man caves that you can make yourself. She may not be able to comprehend how much it means to you. Best of all, you’ll never have to worry about your wife finding out about your fantasy football league again. Want to learn more? Scroll on to see our best man cave ideas for DIY decor and furniture projects:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnKLBOpgAaE/
We know how much dudes love their cars, and this is for sure the best way to honor the dude mobile. All you need is your old rusty license plate and some wood and you’re good to go! Just glue some slabs of wood together. BOOM! Instant TP holder. (And you’ll impress the ladies too!)
https://www.instagram.com/p/BGpY6mQwdJ8/
What man doesn’t like the smell of Whiskey in the morning? Check out this awesome soap dispenser fashioned from an old Jack Daniels bottle. The best part? Well, you get to drink the whiskey first. Duh.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/311311392977160634/
Aren’t these rad? It’s pretty awesome that you don’t need anything other than your superhuman strength, a screwdriver, and an old wrench to throw these puppies up in your man cave. You can bet the dudes will be jealous.
Check out this awesome DIY cutting board along with the step-by-step tutorial on how it’s made brought to you by one of the coolest websites for all things man, manmadediy. You can totally put your drink on that too, bro.
Have you ever made anything out of pallet wood? Pallet wood is used for hundreds of re-purposed projects. Check out how to make your own pallet table and if this got you hooked, check this awesome post on cool pallet projects.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/542824561316478118/
Did you know that building shelves out of plumber’s pipe are just straight up easy? This is one of the most cost effective DIY shelving units you can make. Everything you need you can find right at your neighborhood Home Depot.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/444660163201030334/
Yup. It’s real. A giant bed made out of a giant barrel. You thought nursery rhymes weren’t real. Guess again. This barrel bed is pretty damn cool if you ask us. We’re just wondering, “How did they fit that thing through the door?”.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/456341374736179044/
Oh yeah, baby. We went there. Who doesn’t want this ottoman couch? I mean, come on. You can make it yourself and you know you nearly have a heart attack when you walk into a bar and they have a Pac-Man arcade game. It doesn’t get any better than this.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Beizj8bBgqN/
That’s pretty freakin’ rugged…
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/456833955929228623/
What makes a beer bottle opener worth using? Not having to bend over when the sucker flies off into oblivion. Avoid the nuisance of having to do something so rudimentary by snatching one of these sick gadgets.
https://www.instagram.com/p/7J1WpdEDrL/
Okay, so this is pretty dope. Ignore the photo frames around it. We’re thinking you should probably paint it red and make a sign that says, “GET OUT – AND DON’T LET THE DOOR HIT YA…” You know the rest. Check out how it’s made here.
Turn your old car into a barbecue. Make sure to remove the engine before attempting this at home, kids.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BtzkO1qHBdo/
Now you can make the most the most non-expensive floor you’ve ever walked on. Seriously, it would probably cost you… uh, pennies.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/AVi6pb8RuY5LXiGalLyGlKeXzExQkpdOiddSrpA1isXAGDhp7wvq1dc/
Make this awesome bar to impress your friends. All you need is some old wood…
These drinking glasses totally rule. All you need is some acetone and string, or a bottle cutter, and you can make awesome DIY glasses.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/305822630922977939/
Take a huge weight off your shoulders with this awesome book balancing act. Impress your friends with science.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsvwcmvl7–/
All you need to do is grab a chainsaw and just get to it. Kidding. But how killer are these suitcase shelves? Such an awesome addition to a man cave. Further instructions on how to make them below.
https://www.instagram.com/p/kIqICIPApU/
Get a sick Nintendo table for a mere $3,500 dollars. No big deal.
https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/533113674632539483/
Make a pretty awesome vintage ice chest out of free wooden pallets. What’s better than free? Talk about cooler envy. This is one of the coolest man cave ideas around.
Watch this video to see how Corona beer bottles are made into drinking glasses by Jonny Keeley.
Thanks for checking out our post on Man Cave Ideas! Men will always be men. If I’m to do things my way, I’d have half the house filled with these great ideas. Have you made some pretty noteworthy man caves? Leave your feedback in the comments section below. We want to hear from you!
Click here for furniture ideas to spruce up your interiors.
Feature Image Via Intash
]]>I’ve had all sorts of different closet configurations over the years. From plastic drawers in a 6×10 dorm room, to a teensy tiny walk-in, to a built in bank of PAX wardrobes, to a closet split between rooms, which is my current situation. Each one had its pros and cons, which have led to helpful insights.
A few things I’ve come to realize about a functioning closet space are:
You’ll wear more of your closet when it’s more visible.
A tiny amount of planning can make a huge difference.
You shouldn’t underestimate the impact of matching hangers.
These all lead to a clearer sense of style and more ease in expressing it.
If those that appeals to you, let’s dig into 3 easy upgrades you can make to your closet space this year!
This can be achieved lots of different ways and definitely does not require a luxurious walk-in closet (although a gal can always dream!). A few of those ways include:
1 / Editing your closet to reduce clutter and overcrowding. A jam packed space can make it a chore to find something to wear each day, often leading to an underuse of clothing since you only wear what’s already handy. Check out my simple 5 step closet edit.
2 / Folding and storing your clothes in a way that’s easy to see them. If that’s in drawers, fold them and store them “record style” so you can see all of your options at a glance (folding demo here). If that’s on hangers try to keep only one item per hanger so nothing is buried or hidden.
3 / Keeping your shoes easily available and labelling shoe boxes so you know what’s inside. Shoes and accessories like bags can easily become dust collectors if they’re hard to access or if it’s not immediately apparent what’s inside a storage box.
4 / Adding small hooks on the inside of a closet door to hang your favourite belts, scarves and other small accessories so they’re not forgotten.
5 / If you lack closet space, a free-standing clothes rack is a really great way to create more visibility in your wardrobe. I love my Reavis Clothes Rack from 17 Stories (via Wayfair). It’s reasonably priced and once assembled it feels very sturdy and offers a great range of organization options. I have two of them now and store most of my seasonal clothing on them. I also like this rack for storing shoes.
This one piggybacks on the first tip in that it’s all about visibility.
Not only that, but you’re much more likely to wear something you might not have otherwise considered or thought of when pressed for time.
I like to organize the look on a hanger and set in on my dresser so it’s all ready to go when I’m getting dressed in the morning. I even include my underwear, socks and any jewelry.
You could also use a chair to organize your outfit for the day or even curate a mini capsule for the week.
This small upgrade might not be as exciting or dopamine inducing as ordering a cute new top, but it will cost roughly the same and have a MUCH longer lasting impact on your closet space overall. There is something so satisfying about opening your closet doors to a row of matching hangers and gives the space a boutique shop feel!
I’ve been using the same wooden IKEA hangers for over a decade now and have no complaints. I have a mix of options for different garment types but typically use the BUMERANG for tops, tees, shirts, dresses and jackets, the skirt hanger version for pants and skirts, the coat hanger for coats to help the shoulders maintain their shape. They just released a new no-slip option for silky materials, which I’ll definitely be adding to the mix.
I don’t recommend plastic, wire or even velvet hangers. If they’re too slim, yes they save some room, but they end up cramping your space and crumpling your clothes together. They can also lead to misshapen shoulders on tops and shirts. This recent article in DOMINO has only convinced me further.
If you want to get creative with how you use your hangers, there are hundreds of brilliant tutorials online. @makelifesimpler is one of my faves to follow for ideas, like this one.
I hope this post offers some further incentive and inspiration to upgrade your closet space and how you use it!
In case you missed it:
On curating a jewelry capsule, investing in sleepwear and wearing what you love.
On letting items go, prioritizing function and streamlining routines.
]]>It is both incredibly surreal and profoundly humbling to be writing this article.
When I began reading The White Coat Investor almost 10 years ago, I never could have imagined the scope or magnitude of its impact in my world. An impact not only on my finances but on nearly every corner of my ever-changing life. My jobs, my careers, my wife’s career, where I live, and especially how I live have all been directly and positively influenced by the guidance I have found here. That influence has come from Dr. Jim Dahle and from all of you who comment, post, and contribute across the WCI network. You have collectively made my life better, and I am deeply thankful.
Today, I am grateful and honored to share with you the beginning of my constantly evolving professional and financial story. I don’t expect widespread acceptance of my choices or my perspectives, and I don’t intend to convince anyone of them. Rather, my hope with this post and all future posts is to make a contribution to the accumulated wisdom, levity, and collegiality of this community that has been so useful to me.
With that preamble in place, I now offer the meandering story of my dental career and a few possible lessons learned along the way.
When I began seeking out a dental school spot in the summer of 2007, I was desperately hoping to get into any of the 13 schools where I applied—with the goal of returning to the suburbs of Salt Lake City in 2012 to buy a private practice as a newly minted general dentist.
I gave no thought to the cost of my education since every dentist I knew had given me the same advice regarding student loans: “Just worry about getting in, doing well, and the rest will take care of itself.” I naively and enthusiastically agreed. All that mattered was getting in and then, after four years of training, I would come home to take my rightful place in the pantheon of rich dentists on the east bench of the Salt Lake valley.
Fast forward two years to the end of my first year of dental school at Oregon Health & Science University. My elation and pride at becoming one of the few people in my extended family to graduate college—and the first to attend a post-baccalaureate program—had faded, and mild anxiety about my economic future had begun to build.
I had been in training for less than a year and had already taken out $55,000 in loans just to cover tuition. My wife had secured a good job that was paying our living expenses in Portland, but a change in tort law in Oregon had (allegedly) been the cause of significant increases in tuition. Tuition costs that had been projected to be $40,000 for my first year and $180,000 total when I chose OHSU had quickly become almost $60,000 for the first year and $280,000 for all four.
I knew I was going to be a rich dentist with a 4,800-square-foot house and a boat in no time but still . . . $280,000 felt like a lot.
I started asking the dentists back home how long it took them to pay off $280,000 of debt at 6.9% interest. The looks on their faces when I asked this question were as stupefying as their responses:
“Well . . . ummmmm . . . you see son, I graduated a few years back when things were a little different. My schooling cost about $60,000 total. My parents paid for a good chunk of that, and I borrowed the other $35,000 at 1%. I’m still paying it off; it’s just a couple hundred dollars a month.”
With a resource-scarce elementary school teacher for a mom and a Pakistani immigrant drywall hanger for a dad, I was rich in emotional support. Sadly, the Department of Education accepts neither multicultural parental pride nor unfettered borrower negligence as payment.
Temporarily panicked, I settled my nerves by turning my attention away from debt and toward income. I thought, “This is OK, no problem, if I’m going to owe this much, I just need to start doing the leg work to find a really good-paying job.” Prior to this moment, I had never thought to ask what it costs to buy a dental practice in the suburbs of Salt Lake. My temporary panic adopted some level of permeance when I met with a practice broker who showed me a listing of current practices for sale in my area that ranged from $700,000–$1.2 million.
Combine this with some casual home shopping my wife had done—a few favorites ranged from $400,000–$800,000 (a bargain by today’s comparison)—and suddenly the reality of my dreams came into acute clarity. With a projected first-year income of $150,000–$200,000 in the intensely oversaturated dental market of northern Utah and a looming combined debt of $1.4 million–$2.3 million, even my financially ignorant mind came to an inescapable conclusion.
This is not going to work.
More information here:
Freedom from Student Loan Debt: A Dentist’s Story
With Plan 1.0 (move back to Salt Lake City and be joyfully rich) off the table, I shifted gears to Plan 2.0—temporarily move almost anywhere and be contentedly middle class. Step 1 of that plan was to buy myself an emotional support chalupa at Taco Bell and eat slowly while I figured out how to break this news: first to myself and then to my wife. Step 2 of that plan was to get someone else to pay for the rest of dental school.
One of my classmates was in the military. His school was paid for with the HPSP scholarship, and he also received a $20,000 signing bonus, a monthly stipend, and officer pay during school breaks. Perfect!
I did some research and found out that the Army is terrible with lots of open spots, the Air Force is awesome with zero open spots, and the Navy is tolerable with a few open spots. A bunch of paperwork, a trip to San Diego’s naval and Marine bases, a very weird day at something called MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station), and several interviews later, I was told by my recruiter that I was approved for a three-year Navy scholarship. The Navy would pay for my last three years of school, and I would be a Navy dentist for three years after graduation.
Plan 2.0 was off to a great start.
Then, one day while I was in removable prosthodontics lab making dentures, the dean of admissions got me out of the lab, saying there were some “visitors from the Navy” that wanted to see me. Thinking I was getting some kind of welcome-to-the-club visit and leaving with a logo-emblazoned water bottle, I instead received an hour-long interrogation from the NCIS. Then, my scholarship was rescinded.
Apparently, I didn’t have satisfactory answers to why my dad lived in Abbottabad in northern Pakistan for so many years, who he lived with, who his associates were, and where those associates were now.
I was devastated.
It wasn’t until two years later when President Obama came on TV to tell the world that Osama bin Laden had been located and killed in Abbottabad that I understood why I had been catechized so intensely that day and why the US government didn’t want me on its battleships. In fact, when bin Laden’s compound was shown on the news, my dad called and said, “Hey, I know that place. I used to play cricket and chase goats over there.”
To be clear, my dad is not associated with Al-Qaeda. He’s mostly associated with gin martinis, vinyl records, and Monday Night Football, but alas, I was back to square one.
While confused and disappointed, I was undeterred in my pursuit of finding someone to pay for my exorbitant tuition. Instead of the military, I turned toward the National Health Service Corps (NHSC), a division of the federal government that offers a scholarship analogous to the one I had with the Navy. The NHSC would pay for my remaining training and provide a monthly stipend in exchange for a 1:1 service year payback. The catch is that the service payback had to be at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), which is almost always located in very rural areas or low-income urban areas. (You may recall that these were both very different than the Salt Lake suburb life I had imagined for myself.) This is because FQHCs are built and funded with the purpose of providing care to uninsured, undocumented, and/or working-poor patients who are unable to access care through the more traditional and familiar American healthcare system.
This became plan 2.1: temporarily move almost anywhere and be contentedly middle class but on the NHSC scholarship plan.
I applied, and I was denied.
I found out later that the NHSC scholarship was incredibly competitive, and scholarships were preferentially awarded to applicants from minority or otherwise marginalized groups. While my dad is from Pakistan and I was raised in a highly-gentrified area of Salt Lake, my lived experience is one of a tall, white, straight, upper-to-middle class, Christian, privileged man, and hence I was not offered the scholarship (correctly so, in my opinion).
So, at this point, things weren’t exactly going according to plan. To be fair, I entered dental school without any plan, and I was getting exactly what I planned for . . . nothing. The old saying, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail” was certainly proving true in my case.
The one glimmer of hope I had left was something I learned about in my NHSC application process. The NHSC offers a scholarship I couldn't get, but it also had a loan repayment program. At that time, if I worked for an FQHC with an HPSA (Health Professional Shortage Area) score of 18 or higher, I would receive $60,000 of tax-free student loan relief in exchange for a two-year commitment. If I stayed longer, I would receive $20,000 in both years 3 and 4 and then $10,000 per year for years 5 and beyond.
It wasn’t nearly as good of a deal as the scholarship, but it was something. This became Plan 2.2: temporarily move almost anywhere and be contentedly middle class on the NHSC loan repayment plan.
This plan worked out. Well, kind of.
More information here:
How I Went from a Negative Net Worth in My 30s to Early Retirement
After graduation, we moved with our first child—a brand new daughter—to stunningly beautiful southern Oregon where we bought a four-bedroom house for $220,000 on a 2% mortgage (the monthly payment was $895). I accepted a job at a qualifying FQHC where I was paid $118,000 a year (a stark departure from the $250,000–$300,000 I had been led to believe I would make when I started taking pre-dental classes eight years earlier), great benefits, and a group of young idealistic dentists who were there partially for the loan relief but mostly for the cause of serving the underserved.
I was just there for the money.
In my mind, my wife had married me based on the understanding I would be a wealthy medical professional providing the life we had always seen the doctors in our neighborhood live (she and I met in high school). I could feel the heat of my mother-in-law’s proverbial stare searing a molten hole into my soul while I temporarily failed to bring her daughter back to the homeland. In other words, there was no world in which we were staying in this job for more than a few years.
Fast forward three years to 2015 and everything had changed. We fell deeply in love with southern Oregon, and I fell even deeper in love with public health dentistry.
I was shocked to discover how rewarding it was for me to treat patients who lived on the margins of our society, who had been dealt an impossibly difficult hand in life, and who had lived with the pain and the shame of untreated oral disease for so long. I found such joy in going into our local schools to provide screenings; sealants; fluoride; and, most importantly, oral health education to disadvantaged students. I relished the unpredictability and challenge of taking a modified RV-turned-mobile-dental-clinic into the local pear orchards and providing emergent care to migrant farm workers from all over Latin America. I found so much satisfaction in navigating the myriad social and mental health challenges of removing all the infected teeth of chronically homeless patients and making them a pair of dentures they could be proud to show off with their first toothy smile in years.
I loved working with a team of dentists who were diverse, driven, and immensely talented. My dental skillset grew exponentially being around providers who had such a range of training and experience. To have 5-10 peers to review a treatment plan, look at a radiograph, support me through a new procedure, and just vent to was invaluable.
Stack that alongside Oregon’s expansion of the Affordable Care Act to include dental care which brought along with it the expansion of our clinic, pay raises, increasing wonderful benefits, and the ability to hire more providers, and I had accidentally found my dream dental career.
After five years, I had increased my pay to over $200,000; I had an administrative role at the clinic that was interesting, rewarding, and a welcome break from patient care; and I had received $110,000 of tax-free student loan forgiveness.
During this time, I overheard a conversation between two other dentists about some niche blog that supposedly could help medical folks make better financial decisions. In an attempt to find that blog, I stumbled upon Mr. Money Mustache, and I was immediately absorbed into the FIRE movement.
Not long after, I found the obscure blog my coworkers were talking about, and under the tutelage of Dr. Dahle and MMM, I continued to live on our same budget from dental school; I also eradicated the rest of my $280,000 debt within those same five years.
I ended up staying at this job for nearly 10 years. In hindsight, combining the NHSC loan forgiveness with Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)—especially with two-plus years of $0 COVID payments—would have been the more optimal strategy. But I didn’t know then what I know now, and I never once regretted being free from the immense burden of those student loans.
Plan 2.2: temporarily move almost anywhere and be contentedly middle class on the NHSC loan repayment plan had morphed into:
Plan 3.0: bask in the supernal satisfaction of public health and joyfully thrive in the majesty of southern Oregon.
More information here:
Paying Off Spouse’s Student Loans Together
To recap the evolution of my professional career plans:
That is a path I didn’t see coming and one I never could have predicted. It is a path that has brought me tremendous happiness, incredible growth, and profound learning, for all of which I will forever be grateful.
Some possible big-picture takeaways from this meandering journey of mine may include:
Some possible small-picture takeaways may include:
My journey from aspiring practice owner to wannabe military officer to public health provider revealed what I didn’t know I always wanted from healthcare—peer-to-peer friendships, diversification within my work, and a heart-centered mission that was about something bigger than my long-planned house and boat.
It’s a journey I wasn’t planning on, one I wouldn’t necessarily repeat, and one I will never regret.
Can you relate to this path that was filled with twists and turns? Have you ever thought about working with an underserved population? Have you found wealth that didn't include a high salary because of the work you do? Comment below!
The post A Dental Career Reimagined — I Thought I’d Be Rich But I Found Wealth in Another Way appeared first on The White Coat Investor - Investing & Personal Finance for Doctors.
]]>Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style with this easy DIY project! Learn how to make a festive door hanger using a free SVG file. If you make a purchase using any affiliate links below, we may earn a commission.
St. Patrick's Day is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than by making your very own festive decoration?
A festive wreath is a perfect way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your home, and with this easy DIY project, you can create one in no time.
In this blog post, we will show you step-by-step how to make a St. Patrick's Day door hanger using a free SVG (scalable vector graphic) file.
Even if you don't consider yourself particularly crafty, this project is simple enough for beginners to tackle.
So grab your supplies and let's get started on this festive holiday decor!
Like videos? I have a video tutorial for you! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel so you don't miss out on any future video tutorials.
We love to craft for holidays, and that includes Saint Patrick's Day! So naturally, we have a lot of craft tutorials to share with you. Like these Lucky Cupcake Toppers, these St. Patrick's Day Treat Boxes, and this Wood Bead Garland.
Take a look around the blog for more St. Patrick's Day Cricut Tutorials!
To begin, grab the Cross-Stitch Clover SVG.
The file includes the SVG, DXF, EPS, and PNG versions of this cut file, so you should be able to use it no matter what cutting machine you use.
I will be using my Cricut to cut my design, and this part of the tutorial will be using Cricut Design Space. But this file can be cut on a Silhouette, Brother, or any cutting machine that excepts SVG files.
Upload the SVG file into your cutting software.
Since we are cutting the design out of heat transfer vinyl, make sure to mirror the design before cutting.
I love watching my Cricut machine cut!!
Weed the clover pattern and remove the excess.
This can take a little bit of time since there are so many cuts in this design.
The inside of the circle sign was already painted white when I purchased it from Hobby Lobby. Yay! That's a win!
That means all we have to do is paint the outside frame of the sign.
Make sure to tape around the inside so we don't get paint on the white background.
Apply two coats of the Deco Art Metallic Green and let dry.
If you lay the glitter paint on really thick and you can do it with only one coat, but it will take a while to dry with a heavier coat.
Once the paint is dry around the frame you can remove the tape from the edges.
Lay the four-leaf clover design on the sign and find your placement.
Start with the clover piece and lay the protective sheet over the design. This will protect your painted surface from the heat press.
Set your Cricut EasyPress to 400 degrees with a time of 40 seconds.
Apply the EasyPress to the heat transfer vinyl. Repeat as many times as necessary to cover the entire design with heat.
Wait until the back plastic sheet is cool enough to touch and begin peeling it back from the design. Peel it nice and slow because some of those Xs may not stick.
When you come to a section that didn't stick grab the EasyPress Mini and go back over with medium heat.
Again let cool a smidge before you resume peeling.
This step does require some patience. I found it helpful to keep the scraper tool nearby to help press the pieces onto the surface.
Once the Clover is applied, repeat to apply the "hi".
I think this smaller portion is better for the EasyPress Mini. Otherwise, you are reheating and possibly moving the green X's you just got to stick down.
After all of those little cross-stitch Xs are stuck in place, you are done! See, now that wasn't too bad!
I hung this St. Patrick's Day Decor on my front door, but it really would look great anywhere, inside or out!
Who knows, it might even have a little magic and bring me good luck. I sure hope so!
St. Patrick's Day can be observed through a number of different traditions. These include food like corned beef and cabbage, and decorating with symbols like shamrocks and leprechauns.
You can decorate with many types of decorations, but one thing they all have in common is green. Green is the main color of St Patrick Day, and you could even get pinched if you aren't wearing it on the day.
A couple ideas to include in your St. Patrick's Day Decorations include
A wreath is a door hanger, but a door hanger isn't a wreath.
A wreath typically has a hole in the center and is usually round. A door hanger can be any shape or size and is something you hang on your front door for decoration.
The post How to Make A St. Patrick's Day Door Hanger appeared first on The Crafty Blog Stalker.
]]>Wood beads add rustic charm to a holiday garland. Find out how to make this garland decor project that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day here. If you make a purchase using the affiliate links included, we may earn a commission.
Hey there, are you ready to get creative and add some rustic charm to your home decor?
This tutorial is all about making your own DIY wood bead garland, a trendy and versatile accent piece that you can customize and add to your holiday decor.
Don't worry if you've never made a wood garland before - we'll guide you through the process step by step using easy-to-find materials and simple techniques.
So let's roll up our sleeves and start our fun craft!
Like videos? I have a video tutorial for you! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel so you don't miss out on any future video tutorials.
We love to craft for holidays, and that includes Saint Patrick's Day! So naturally, we have a lot of craft tutorials to share with you. Like these Lucky Cupcake Toppers, these St. Patrick's Day Treat Boxes, and this Holiday Door Hanger.
Take a look around the blog for more St. Patrick's Day Cricut Tutorials!
My bead size is 20 mm but you could use larger beads or smaller beads if you wanted.
There are many different ways you can customize this garland. Make a longer DIY bead garland by adding to the number of beads you use, or change out the shamrock shape for something you can keep out all year!
Make sure to use your own stash first! This tutorial can easily be adjusted by using your own wooden beads, the color of paint, or other supplies you already have on hand.
Take a small cardboard box and cut off the flaps.
Cut two slits across from each other in the box.
Cut a length of wire that is longer than the width of the box.
Take the wire and pinch it to give the wire lots of peaks and valleys, and then pull the wire back out. These bends in the wire will help hold the large beads in place.
String the natural wood beads onto the wire, and place the wire in the cut slits on the box.
Spray a light coat of spray paint on the beads, and then twist the wire so you can spray the back side of the beads.
Let dry for about 10 minutes, and then repeat with a second coat.
Allow the beads to dry for another 15 - 20 minutes and apply the sealer coat.
Repeat for all of the colors of beads you are making. For me, it was 3 different colors.
They look so great when they are done!
Use the CropADile to punch on the wood shamrock wherever you want the top to be.
Apply the acrylic paint with a makeup sponge by dabbing the paint onto the shamrock.
I love to use makeup sponges instead of a paintbrush because they are much cheaper and work great!
Make sure to paint the sides and the back too.
All of your pieces should be completely dry when you go to assemble the bead garland.
Cut a piece of jute about a yard long. It is always a great idea to have more than you need instead of not enough.
If you don't have a needle, bring the two ends of the piece of string together to double the line, and wrap a piece of scotch tape tightly around the ends. This will make stringing the beads much easier.
Push the two ends through the hole in the shamrock, and before tightening, pull the ends through the loop, and pull tight.
String the beads onto the twine.
I didn't go in any particular order, I just didn't want the same colors to touch.
Once all of the beads are on the twine, cut off the taped end.
We are going to be making the 4-inch tassel on the loom.
Open the loom and begin wrapping the twine around that middle section.
The more you wrap the fuller your tassel will be. Since we are using thicker twine, I don't want my tassel too hefty so I did a single line of loops.
Take the two ends from your beaded length, and tie a knot, as tightly as you can, around the center rod and jute twine.
Starting here, I don't follow the instructions of the loom and create my own method. 🤣
Close the loom, and trim the end of your twine tassel with a pair of scissors. There is a groove at the base of the loom for your scissors.
The strands are only tied through the center so be careful removing the "tassel" from the loom.
Hold the jute tassel together with your fingers and wrap another piece of twine around the top of your tassel.
Wrap about 5 or six times around and tie that length in a tight knot.
Trim the ends of the tassel to even up and shorten it to the desired length.
My tassel wasn't laying very nicely so I dunked the tassel in a bowl of water a couple of times, ringing it out after each dunk until I liked the shape of it better.
Now that it has dried, my wooden bead garland is finished. This will fit perfectly with my farmhouse decor.
Have future projects in mind that require painted beads? The method above is the best I have tried, and I have tried many different ways!
Make sure to pin this easy tutorial to Pinterest so you don't lose it!
There is no set standard for how long or short a farmhouse wood bead garland should be. I have seen different garlands anywhere from 6 inches to 10 feet.
Instead, consider the purpose of your garland. If you want them for tiered trays or to hang over a picture frame, 12-18 inches is a great length. If you are wanting a longer garland you can hang from a fireplace mantel, then you may want 5-6 feet.
That is why I love a DIY garland, it is an easy way to get exactly what you are looking for. Plus, they are just fun projects!
You can really use any kind of string you like to make a garland. Popular choices include ribbon, leather cord, heavy cotton cord, jute string, hemp cord, and twine rope.
The post How to Make Wood Bead Garland Decor for St. Patrick's Day appeared first on The Crafty Blog Stalker.
]]>Every time I take a break from shopping I find that I end up rediscovering insights that have helped me shape my style for years and uncovering new ones that can indicate progress and steer me towards important changes. Even something that might seem relatively insignificant, like realizing I have enough of something or that I only reach for one item from a collection of 5, can be really helpful when intentional style is the goal. Which, I’m assuming if you’re here, it is!
I shared a handful of these in my latest newsletter (sign up here or at the end of this post) and felt they deserved a more permanent spot here on the blog. So here’s a quick list of 12 findings I recorded throughout my latest shopping pause, which also turned into a winter wardrobe review.
Think knitwear with clean lines, fabrics that drape beautifully and textures that feel great on the skin.
Gen Z can’t shame my out of skinny jeans completely. If you’ve tried stuffing wide leg denim into snow boots, you understand.
SHOP THE LOOK: VEST (old, linked to similar) / HERBALIST SHIRT gifted (STYLEBEE10 for 10% Off) / WAY HIGH SKINNY JEANS / BOOTS (old, linked to similar)
I may love layering but simplicity will always have my heart and keeping the colour palette lean is my favourite winter style trick.
After years of adding a couple at a time, I feel like I finally have the collection I need to support my winter style needs. These save my sweaters, keep me warm, make layering simple and laundry day a cinch.
SHOP MY FAVOURITE: MICRO RIB SCOOPNECK HERE & BLACK LEGGINGS HERE
SHOP MY FAVOURITE: MICRO RIB TURTLENECK HERE & BLACK LEGGINGS HERE
My #1 formula is to pair my leggings with a base layer, add an oversize knit or shirt, pull on chunky boots and layer a coat on top!
SHOP THE LOOK HERE | SHOP MY OVERSIZED OXFORD ROUND UP HERE
One of my favourites is:
Basic Tee or Turtleneck + 90’s Cheeky Jeans + Cardigan + Chunky Boots
I’ve worn them at least 15 times throughout the season so far and can’t wait to style them for spring soon too!
My shorter puffer coats haven’t left their storage bin this year, which means it’s time to edit and consolidate my collection.
Similar to my base layer collection, I’ve been planning and adding winter boot options over the last several years. I’m feeling great about the styles I have and use them all on a regular basis. As certain styles get worn out or used less, I will edit accoridingly.
I have LOVED having such a lean palette to work with this season. I’ve found it has helped me wear more of my closet and feel more at ease with my winter style.
SHOP THE LOOK: SHEARLING COAT (old, linked to similar) / HERBALIST SHIRT gifted (STYLEBEE10 for 10% Off) / 90’S CURVY CHEEKY JEANS washed black / EAR MUFFS / BAG old / CIGAR RING / GOLD BRACELET vintage
Dressing for winter weather gets to be a drag by February so it’s been nice to have a fun piece like this plaid dress to switch things up and still stay warm.
& finally, the most important insight of all…
This is something I try to keep top of mind all year because the more I stay true to my personal style and a wardrobe that supports my real life, the easier it is to pass on things I don’t need or won’t wear.
I hope these findings encourage you to seek out insights from your own closet and help you assess what’s been working or not working within your wardrobe.
If you need some closet review prompts try these:
I’ll be back soon with the wish list I’ve made for next winter!
]]>39.00 USD
Handcrafted and high quality wall mounted rustic space saving way to hang keys, coats, jackets, phone, pet leashes, umbrella, mail, and other accessories out of the way! Would be great as a housewarming gift, wedding gift, or used in your own home!
DIMENSIONS & SPECIFICATIONS:
-OVERALL: (Choose your length)”L x 4.25”D x 9.25”H
-MAIL SLOT: 6.5"T X 9"W
-CAPACITY:
12"L: 3 hooks
16"L: 4 hooks
20"L: 5 hooks
24"L: 6 hooks
28"L: 7 hooks
32"L: 8 hooks
36"L: 9 hooks
40"L: 10 hooks
48"L: 12 hooks
60"L: 15 hooks
DEFAULT STAIN: Provincial (as pictured)
bit.ly/dmn-stain
CUSTOM REQUESTS:
-Stain: See stain swatches in photos for other stain options; View full size examples of the stain offerings on our products by visiting bit.ly/dmn-stain Write your request in the notes to seller field at checkout!
-Dimensions: Differing length, depth, and height options available!
-Customer photo examples can be viewed here: https://www.instagram.com/distressedmenot/
MOUNTING: Very sturdy!! Mounting to wall studs or using drywall anchors is recommended.
Mounting screws included. Holes are pre-drilled for easy wall mounting!
Need it SOON? Bump your order up in the queue by adding this listing to your order: https://www.etsy.com/listing/399062001/make-my-item-faster-please (Disclaimer: This is not expedited shipping, just expedited order completion.)
SHIPPING: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DistressedMeNot#policies
*Accessories not included*
A glitter-dipped hanging twig heart is a wall decoration consisting of twigs arranged in a heart pattern and covered with glitter at the tips. Crafting a glitter-dipped hanging twig heart is a relaxing and creative activity that produces a unique piece of artwork for rustic glam interior design. Hang it on a wall, near a window, or by a door. It is also a handmade gift idea for couples, family, and friends for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, 5-year anniversaries (wood), birthdays, and other romantic occasions.
This guide describes the supplies and step-by-step instructions for making a glitter-dipped hanging twig heart. It features images, a video guide, and more tips and tricks to improve your design. This DIY shouldn’t take more than 1 hour to complete.
Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft a gold-dipped hanging twig heart:
Check out the following video guide that better illustrates the processs of crafting a gold-dipped hanging twig heart:
Check out the following tips and tricks for improving or changing the gold-dipped hanging twig heart:
Crafting a DIY hanging twig heart is a project that anyone can try with the right supplies and by following the instructions outlined in this guide. For more similar projects, check out romantic decorations.
The post How to Craft a Glitter-Dipped Hanging Twig Heart for Valentine’s Day Decor in 5 Steps appeared first on DIYs.com.
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