tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70074429604244401172024-03-18T06:09:39.622-07:00Design InspirationAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.comBlogger1446125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-53445468692378526602013-05-12T20:15:00.002-07:002013-05-12T20:15:24.932-07:00Some Top Notch Magazines to Help Passing Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.timeinc.net/time/magazine/archive/covers/2007/1101070219_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.timeinc.net/time/magazine/archive/covers/2007/1101070219_400.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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When you want to pick a high quality magazine that will help you pass the time then you will firstly think about <a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com/">National Geographic</a>. That is indeed an amazing magazine that will only occupy you with weighed information around the world but you will also have it well organized too. Yet, that is not the only magazine that can make you interested about its news but there are any others too. You can have Time that will give you <a href="http://www.time.com/time/covers/0,16641,20070219,00.html">The Strange Case of Haji Bashar Noorzai</a> that is shocking enough. With some trust able information about politics and news around universe then the Time will be a magnificent choice to accompany your morning coffee before going to office. But if you do not like to have such story so early in the morning then you can enjoy lighter topic in Vanity Fair. You can have <a href="http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/features/2011/08/demi-moore-201108">Demi Moore on Vanity Fair</a> in her pregnant nude photo. That is perfectly shocking and bring out your interest more. With its fascinating news, Vanity Fair always succeeds to make their readers curious more and more about their next story about celebrities. You can also enjoy that news in your morning or evening together with your friends. That will be an interesting topic to discuss together with evening tea.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com77tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-50449180572068513592012-12-06T12:00:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.345-08:00Calligraphy gift tags and more<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vxF2mhhVL3E/UMBK3ZH0ihI/AAAAAAAAInk/6h-wYaQ2X7M/s1600/printable-calligraphy-gift-tags.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vxF2mhhVL3E/UMBK3ZH0ihI/AAAAAAAAInk/6h-wYaQ2X7M/s400/printable-calligraphy-gift-tags.gif" /></a></div>The annual <a href="http://sweetmuffinsuite.com/category/24days/" target="_blank">24 days of Free Christmas Downloads</a> has kicked off at Suite Muffin Suite. Ms. Muffin has designed some lovely hand-drawn calligraphy gift tags you can download and print. Or get desktop wallpapers, printable cards, and decorations from various designers. Check <a href="http://sweetmuffinsuite.com/blog/" target="_blank">the blog</a> throughout December as new freebies are added!</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-10386422212912703632012-12-05T14:25:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.355-08:00Make a geometric origami garland<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oPqU430EsgA/UL_FvEQZ6EI/AAAAAAAAImk/lzENXtns40o/s1600/orange-origami-christmas-garland.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="271" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oPqU430EsgA/UL_FvEQZ6EI/AAAAAAAAImk/lzENXtns40o/s400/orange-origami-christmas-garland.png" /></a></div>If you like folding paper, here's a pretty origami garland to try. Each "bead" takes half a sheet of origami paper. (Preferably a different color on each side.) It's time consuming, but I love how it looks. It's a good, repetitive activity to do while watching Christmas movies you've seen a hundred times. <br /><br />Learn how to make it from Daily Origami's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwRaO6RhHWQ" target="_blank">YouTube video tutorial</a>. The design is by Toshie Takahama.<br /><br />I didn't have a long enough needle to string them, so I used a piece of thin wire bent double at the end to form a hook. I poked holes in the ends of the beads first with a real needle, then used my make-shift needle to pull the thread through.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvAjZeDkgTs/UL_G6-1FiWI/AAAAAAAAIm8/VNsKEkJ3vRs/s1600/origami-paper-christmas-ornament.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="283" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvAjZeDkgTs/UL_G6-1FiWI/AAAAAAAAIm8/VNsKEkJ3vRs/s400/origami-paper-christmas-ornament.png" /></a></div></div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-11278467018460844622012-12-04T12:47:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.362-08:00Printable monogram gift tags<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sz9AVMk7uL0/UL5c3eiLSJI/AAAAAAAAIlk/dUf_lxA-cXw/s1600/monogram-tags-3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sz9AVMk7uL0/UL5c3eiLSJI/AAAAAAAAIlk/dUf_lxA-cXw/s400/monogram-tags-3.jpg" /></a></div>'Tis the season for gift wrapping! To help us, <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Khandjian</a> has made sets of free, monogram gift tags to download and print. They're sprinkled with confetti and come in four colors. Tie them to packages, wine bottles, or your children if you have trouble remembering which one is which.<br /><br />Sarah is a graphic designer and blogger who loves making things. She spends her days designing custom stationery, crafting DIY projects and covering her entire house with glitter. You can find daily design inspiration and DIY projects at her blog, <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Hearts</a>, and view her portfolio <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/portfolio" target="_blank">here</a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqiUlhaqu9c/UL5c3w1hh1I/AAAAAAAAIlw/_m0Zrw54VCY/s1600/monogram-tags-color-choices.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="144" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqiUlhaqu9c/UL5c3w1hh1I/AAAAAAAAIlw/_m0Zrw54VCY/s400/monogram-tags-color-choices.png" /></a></div>Download your choice of monogram gift tag PDFs right here:<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/thbys5elql3em57/monogram-tags-blue.pdf" target="_blank">Blue alphabet</a><br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/gc888kdzofeyvev/monogram-tags-gold-silver.pdf" target="_blank">Gold and silver alphabet</a><br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/khhftgkn12m4py9/monogram-tags-pink-teal.pdf" target="_blank">Pink and teal alphabet</a><br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/sp2tww9g6gkp3od/monogram-tags-red-green.pdf" target="_blank">Red and green alphabet</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-61doGbewFe4/UL5dwOklCeI/AAAAAAAAIl8/odkCpWo-Cu8/s1600/printable-monogram-gift-tag.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="272" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-61doGbewFe4/UL5dwOklCeI/AAAAAAAAIl8/odkCpWo-Cu8/s400/printable-monogram-gift-tag.jpg" /></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-36340091325737144612012-12-03T08:30:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.372-08:00Printable advent city<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twACEn-kUCo/ULzSLfPfFqI/AAAAAAAAIkw/6OobngxWNpo/s1600/christmas-advent-calendar-street.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="517" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twACEn-kUCo/ULzSLfPfFqI/AAAAAAAAIkw/6OobngxWNpo/s800/christmas-advent-calendar-street.jpg" /></a></div>Have you seen this cool, make-it-yourself <a href="http://www.mrprintables.com/christmas-advent-calendar-street.html" target="_blank">advent calendar</a> at Mr. Printables? Build a set of geometric-patterned boxes that look like buildings, numbered 1 - 24, to form a Christmas city.</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-51140187935001825042012-11-30T12:20:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.380-08:00How to sew cases, bags, and buckets<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLUlP0_IpHA/ULkR4Ip7T8I/AAAAAAAAIkI/LpHAKyNyUro/s1600/free-sewing-tutorials.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="335" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLUlP0_IpHA/ULkR4Ip7T8I/AAAAAAAAIkI/LpHAKyNyUro/s400/free-sewing-tutorials.jpg" /></a></div>Check out these instructions for making things that hold other things. Maybe you know somebody who needs a handmade gift?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/e-reader-sleeves-ipad-or-kindle-cover-pattern/" target="_blank">iPad or Kindle cover</a> tutorial at Craft Buds<br /><a href="http://thelongthread.com/?p=10690"target="_blank">Pleated tote bag</a> PDF from The Long Thread<br /><a href="http://www.collectandcarry.com/2012/04/diy-geometric-painted-tote-bags.html"target="_blank">Geometric DIY painted totes</a> from Collect & Carry<br /><a href="http://www.filminthefridge.com/2012/11/23/round-bottomed-fabric-storage-buckets-a-tutorial/"target="_blank">Round fabric storage buckets</a> by Film in the Fridge<br /><br />Find even more things to make at <a href="https://sew4home.com/projects"target="_blank">Sew 4 Home</a>, like this <a href="http://sew4home.com/projects/storage-solutions/happy-holidays-freespirit-rowan-all-weather-tote-amy-butlers-alchemy"target="_blank">laminated tote</a> with a zippered pocket or a <a href="https://sew4home.com/projects/pillows-cushions/happy-holidays-free-spirit-rowan-pinwheel-pom-pom-pillow"target="_blank">round pillow</a> that reminds me of peppermint candy and grandmas.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-66354069702593418152012-11-29T13:41:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.388-08:00Origami paper stars for garlands or gifts<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Vdu_WjJWpk/ULfS3aiLBlI/AAAAAAAAIiw/vPf2t3I5BAM/s1600/origami-3d-paper-star.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="301" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Vdu_WjJWpk/ULfS3aiLBlI/AAAAAAAAIiw/vPf2t3I5BAM/s400/origami-3d-paper-star.png" /></a></div>Making paper Christmas decorations is one of my favorite things this time of year. I found <a href="http://www.origami-instructions.com/origami-8-pointed-star.html" target="_blank">instructions here</a> for making an 8-pointed origami star and tried it out. Lovely! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bof-kAega80/ULfS4wQfsPI/AAAAAAAAIjI/pFAbpYNf4ek/s1600/origami-christmas-star-garland.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="587" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bof-kAega80/ULfS4wQfsPI/AAAAAAAAIjI/pFAbpYNf4ek/s800/origami-christmas-star-garland.png" /></a></div>You can make garlands with them. (The back sides aren't as pretty, so hang the garland against a wall or put two stars back to back.) Or hang individual ones on a Christmas tree.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zQOau8WLlQU/ULfS4CbYK9I/AAAAAAAAIi8/hRum1iyfogY/s1600/origami-paper-star-bow.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="462" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zQOau8WLlQU/ULfS4CbYK9I/AAAAAAAAIi8/hRum1iyfogY/s800/origami-paper-star-bow.png" /></a></div>Or make paper stars to use instead of traditional bows on gifts. If you skip the last step in the tutorial, the back side is flat and easy to tape to a package. These will lay flat for packing presents in a box, and then you can fluff them up again when you put the gifts under the tree.</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-32343921844213238752012-11-27T13:02:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.396-08:00Nice wallpapers for artists and makers<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cforRpEviO4/ULUrOJxMCDI/AAAAAAAAIiI/ViAdOVgAhNs/s1600/artist%2Bdesktop%2Bwallpaper.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="250" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cforRpEviO4/ULUrOJxMCDI/AAAAAAAAIiI/ViAdOVgAhNs/s400/artist%2Bdesktop%2Bwallpaper.gif" /></a></div>I love these <a href="http://marykatemcdevittblog.tumblr.com/post/35449788444/i-made-this-illustration-for-a-screenprinting" target="_blank">hand-lettered desktop wallpapers</a> by Mary Kate McDevitt for <a href="http://wemakepdx.com/" target="_blank">We Make</a>. They're sized for various screens and devices. Choose from the best color in the world, orange, or the second best color in the world, blue, <a href="http://marykatemcdevittblog.tumblr.com/post/35449788444/i-made-this-illustration-for-a-screenprinting" target="_blank">right here</a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Qdq_7DE19o/ULUm49MxKCI/AAAAAAAAIhg/HpPBCNza-58/s1600/mary-kate-mcdevitt.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="250" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Qdq_7DE19o/ULUm49MxKCI/AAAAAAAAIhg/HpPBCNza-58/s400/mary-kate-mcdevitt.gif" /></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-40690897192756635702012-11-26T10:02:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.404-08:00Customize and print a free holiday card<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7_SrW1OVwg/ULOrZFa_K-I/AAAAAAAAIgs/DBSZK72ph48/s1600/quirky%2Bprintable%2Bholiday%2Bcard.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7_SrW1OVwg/ULOrZFa_K-I/AAAAAAAAIgs/DBSZK72ph48/s400/quirky%2Bprintable%2Bholiday%2Bcard.jpg" /></a></div>Hope you had a lovely break! I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that Christmas lights have popped up all over the neighborhood. My brain still thinks it's October. <br /><br />But I'm seeing lots of designerly Christmas printables appear around the internet, including this <a href="http://www.lovevsdesign.com/_blog/Love_vs_Design/post/holiday-card-ugly-sweater/" target="_blank">fun, free holiday card</a> from Love vs. Design. Download the PDF, type in your own text, and print. You can select a flat or folded card, and get some "ugly sweater" gift tags, too!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-1276466430887425232012-11-20T11:20:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.411-08:00Apple sweet potato juice<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ACVr7rZexw/UKvQ8aOcSBI/AAAAAAAAIgE/7cZ3P0Yov-E/s1600/apple-sweet-potato-juice.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="552" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ACVr7rZexw/UKvQ8aOcSBI/AAAAAAAAIgE/7cZ3P0Yov-E/s800/apple-sweet-potato-juice.jpg" /></a></div>I'm off the rest of the week for Thanksgiving, but first I wanted to show you my new favorite orange thing: apple sweet potato juice. It's been affectionately dubbed "Jess Juice" by Alex, who has been experimenting with his juicer (<a href="http://www.discountjuicers.com/omega8006.html">this model</a>). The fact that this fall drink happens to be my favorite color is just a bonus. The apple is tart and refreshing, and the sweet potato gives it creaminess and mellows it out to something nearly dessert-like. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes it perfect. The recipe is just two big apples and two raw sweet potatoes. Adjust the proportions to your liking, of course. <br /><br />Have a happy Thanksgiving, all!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-56706569602794556252012-11-19T10:48:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.419-08:00Handmade holiday gift ideas<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PWK1iArFCR0/UKp_1rzJ4II/AAAAAAAAIfc/SQYGzB2kUhw/s1600/diy-gift-ideas-1.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;"src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PWK1iArFCR0/UKp_1rzJ4II/AAAAAAAAIfc/SQYGzB2kUhw/s400/diy-gift-ideas-1.png" /></a></div>The long Thanksgiving weekend coming up might allow some time for making handmade Christmas presents. Here's a sampling of tutorials from the <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/search/label/tutorials" target="_blank">DIY category</a>, in case they spark ideas for making your own holiday gifts. Above: <br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/03/diy-pantone-chip-magnets.html" target="_blank">Pantone chip magnets</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/07/diy-shrink-plastic-typography-pendants.html" target="_blank">Ampersand shrink plastic necklace</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-iron-on-typographic-tote-bag.html" target="_blank">Iron-on tote bag downloadable design</a><br /><a href="http://www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/02/diy-freezer-paper-stenciled-scarf.html" target="_blank">Freezer paper painted scarf</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ctemIqYkVjs/UKp5-gAJKoI/AAAAAAAAIeo/lqLUeu46Pzo/s1600/handmade-gift-tutorials-2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ctemIqYkVjs/UKp5-gAJKoI/AAAAAAAAIeo/lqLUeu46Pzo/s400/handmade-gift-tutorials-2.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/09/easy-diy-beaded-hoop-earrings.html" target="_blank">Easy beaded hoop earrings with printable tag</a><br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2010/05/diy-mid-century-clock-magnets.html" target="_blank">Mid-century clock bottle cap magnets</a><br />Paper pendants, <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/02/more-diy-cut-paper-pendants.html" target="_blank">geometric</a> or <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/11/make-pie-chart-paper-pendants.html" target="_blank">pie chart</a> versions<br /><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/05/make-simple-stitched-vinyl-wallet.html" target="_blank">Simple stitched vinyl wallets</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJXCtcGn2qA/UKp5_EOEA8I/AAAAAAAAIe0/lCs9yQjWCg0/s1600/homemade-christmas-presents-3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJXCtcGn2qA/UKp5_EOEA8I/AAAAAAAAIe0/lCs9yQjWCg0/s400/homemade-christmas-presents-3.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/08/make-your-own-fabric-print-using-sun.html" target="_blank">Homemade fabric designs using sun printing</a><br />No-sew modular <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/03/modular-felt-coaster-tutorial.html" target="_blank">felt coasters</a> and <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/03/make-modular-felt-trivet.html" target="_blank">trivets</a><br /><a href="http://www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/08/how-to-make-origami-business-card-holder.html" target="_blank">Origami gift card holders</a></div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-18153166017946762192012-11-16T13:31:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.474-08:00Style quizzes: 80s hair, first ladies and more<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_lnOft-xj8/UKarnYiVsnI/AAAAAAAAIdM/ksb8zYWNEME/s1600/fashion-quiz.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="120" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;"src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_lnOft-xj8/UKarnYiVsnI/AAAAAAAAIdM/ksb8zYWNEME/s400/fashion-quiz.gif" /></a></div>Completely frivolous Friday afternoon fun: taking fashion quizzes <a href="http://www.mylifetime.com/fun-quizzes/style" target="_blank">at MyLifetime.com</a>. Find out <a href="http://www.mylifetime.com/fun-quizzes/style/are-you-a-true-fashionista" target="_blank">if you're a fashionista</a>. Do you know what a minaudière is? I think I've seen them on petite girls at the gym, encased in stretchy yoga pants and bobbing up and down on the elliptical. <br /><br />You might also want to know <a href="http://www.mylifetime.com/fun-quizzes/style/whats-your-80s-hairstyle" target="_blank">what your 80's hairstyle should be</a>. Or <a href="http://www.mylifetime.com/fun-quizzes/style/who-is-your-first-lady-style-twin" target="_blank">which first lady is your style twin</a>. Hilary Clinton, let's go shopping, girlfriend.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-4690227340448902232012-11-15T17:11:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.528-08:00Free Thanksgiving printable invites and tags<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23UU8xD1Exs/UKWPF9r10jI/AAAAAAAAIcc/bVW9XWSUcfU/s1600/free-thanksgiving-wine-tags.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23UU8xD1Exs/UKWPF9r10jI/AAAAAAAAIcc/bVW9XWSUcfU/s400/free-thanksgiving-wine-tags.jpg" /></a></div>If you want to get fancy this Thanksgiving, the generous designers of the interwebs are offering lots of free printable invitations, tags, and place-setting goodies. Find a whole suite of stylish geometric printables, like these <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/2012-11-12/thanksgiving-wine/" target="_blank">wine bottle labels</a>, at <a href="http://sarahhearts.com/category/freebies/" target="_blank">Sarah Hearts</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cYoLh1JghlA/UKWPFud5bxI/AAAAAAAAIcQ/E6HGmJVkjPE/s1600/free-thanksgiving-invitation.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="329" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cYoLh1JghlA/UKWPFud5bxI/AAAAAAAAIcQ/E6HGmJVkjPE/s400/free-thanksgiving-invitation.gif" /></a></div>Get Alma's printable <a href="http://nicolesclasses.com/who-what-when-where-why/" target="_blank">Thanksgiving party invitations</a> at Nicole's Classes. These pretty designs come in a dark version and a light version, in case your printer isn't feeling too ambitious.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rzXTh-CyQw/UKWPGSEiKgI/AAAAAAAAIco/-xnTBsfSKPE/s1600/thanksgiving%2Bfree%2Bprintable.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rzXTh-CyQw/UKWPGSEiKgI/AAAAAAAAIco/-xnTBsfSKPE/s400/thanksgiving%2Bfree%2Bprintable.png" /></a></div>Jordan of <a href="http://polkadotprintsstudio.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Polkadot Prints</a> has created an elegant Thanksgiving <a href="http://polkadotprintsstudio.blogspot.com.au/2012/11/thanksgiving-pumpkin-loaf-freebie.html" target="_blank">set of tags</a>. Thanks for sharing your time and creativity, designers! I know it takes a lot of time to make things to give away, and we appreciate it.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-20046302390865155842012-11-14T14:22:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.583-08:00Young House Love: a bushel of DIY ideas<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LALPuZ4qosE/UKQQjvjHI3I/AAAAAAAAIa8/4tBhdvLBSCg/s1600/young-house-love-book.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0"width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LALPuZ4qosE/UKQQjvjHI3I/AAAAAAAAIa8/4tBhdvLBSCg/s800/young-house-love-book.jpg" /></a></div>A review copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Young-House-Love-Paint-Update/dp/1579654789/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352929520&sr=8-1&keywords=young+house+love" target="_blank">Young House Love</a> just arrived. It's John and Sherry Petersik's labor of love, stuffed with 243 marvelously doable project ideas for the home. You might be a reader of <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/" target="_blank">their blog</a> by the same name. Those two are funny, warm, and completely endearing. So is the book. <br /><br />Each project gives you a heads-up on the cost, time involved, and how much sweat you'll work up while attempting it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izHZkmih1Nk/UKQQkvkNoBI/AAAAAAAAIbU/cwDbrzyGdpg/s1600/diy-lack-headboard.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izHZkmih1Nk/UKQQkvkNoBI/AAAAAAAAIbU/cwDbrzyGdpg/s400/diy-lack-headboard.jpg" /></a></div>I loved this idea: take apart a couple of inexpensive Lack tables from IKEA and assemble them into a shiny headboard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJJub3GO9l0/UKQQlURF3eI/AAAAAAAAIbg/YIM8y5StSb4/s1600/periodic-table-glass-etching.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="296" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJJub3GO9l0/UKQQlURF3eI/AAAAAAAAIbg/YIM8y5StSb4/s400/periodic-table-glass-etching.jpg" /></a></div>Turn plain canisters into periodic table glassware with a fun etching project.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zu_lg1PWKz0/UKQQmDV8WvI/AAAAAAAAIbs/ZLkYpMKdksw/s1600/DIY-backsplash-ideas.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="301" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zu_lg1PWKz0/UKQQmDV8WvI/AAAAAAAAIbs/ZLkYpMKdksw/s400/DIY-backsplash-ideas.jpg" /></a></div>Get ideas for things you can use to make an interesting backsplash in your kitchen (removable for renters, if needed). I should do this. Our wee kitchen has only painted walls where stuff gets splashed Jackson Pollock-style. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9VSlVsoaEGk/UKQQkBIsD9I/AAAAAAAAIbI/SzEBIPWXweU/s1600/our-door.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9VSlVsoaEGk/UKQQkBIsD9I/AAAAAAAAIbI/SzEBIPWXweU/s400/our-door.jpg" /></a></div>Some projects from guest contributors are sprinkled throughout the book, too. Hey, there's <a href="http://www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/09/how-to-wallpaper-using-fabric.html" target="_blank">our door</a>.<br /><br />You can buy the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Young-House-Love-Paint-Update/dp/1579654789/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352929520&sr=8-1&keywords=young+house+love" target="_blank">here at Amazon</a>. And to see what happens to your house when you make a book, check out Sherry and John's awesome <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2012/11/lets-go-behind-the-scenes-waaay-behind/" target="_blank">behind-the-scenes post</a>!</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-28693511885466605022012-11-13T13:25:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.639-08:00Free font: Manteka<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Injx-mwPPME/UKK4rK1PdnI/AAAAAAAAIaY/vNQWina1K7c/s1600/manteka-free-font.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="384" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Injx-mwPPME/UKK4rK1PdnI/AAAAAAAAIaY/vNQWina1K7c/s400/manteka-free-font.gif" /></a></div>Manteka is a squarish, all-caps typeface by Eduardo Araya. You can <a href="http://www.behance.net/gallery/Manteka/2846011" target="_blank">download the TrueType font here</a> for free. (Find the link under the t-shirt image.)</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-69357833539300048322012-11-12T08:35:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.694-08:00Thanksgiving printable cards<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0h2wJc5XDE/UKEhCmS3MzI/AAAAAAAAIZM/MvhzZiaFh00/s1600/printable-thanksgiving-card.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="279" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0h2wJc5XDE/UKEhCmS3MzI/AAAAAAAAIZM/MvhzZiaFh00/s400/printable-thanksgiving-card.jpg" /></a></div>Download a sheet of three <a href="http://sincerelykinsey.blogspot.com/2012/11/guest-post-with-oana-befort-free.html" target="_blank">thank you note designs</a> by Oana Befort at Sincerely, Kinsey. Oana generously shares <a href="http://www.oanabefort.com/search/label/freebies" target="_blank">lots more freebies</a> at her own site. Here's a sampling!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHNDUhLEHgo/UKEkupFVAUI/AAAAAAAAIZw/6mu-VFzOgko/s1600/DIY-printable-freebies.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHNDUhLEHgo/UKEkupFVAUI/AAAAAAAAIZw/6mu-VFzOgko/s800/DIY-printable-freebies.jpg" /></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-15385411824679155982012-11-09T10:58:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.751-08:00Waste time with Draw a Stickman<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOiL2aNVyuI/UJ1QCSzceII/AAAAAAAAIYo/PEiYWc3p44U/s1600/draw-a-stickman-tiger.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="250" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOiL2aNVyuI/UJ1QCSzceII/AAAAAAAAIYo/PEiYWc3p44U/s400/draw-a-stickman-tiger.gif" /></a></div>Folks trying to kill time before the weekend kicks off might like to <a href="http://www.drawastickman.com/" target="_blank">Draw a Stickman</a>. Follow the instructions in this little animated game and make your very bad drawings come to life. It's cute.</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-22857720911775402952012-11-08T09:42:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.806-08:00Quirky fall wallpaper freebies<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8ceeElmtQA/UJvtFwzde6I/AAAAAAAAIYE/yuaAM87FkeQ/s1600/fall-desktop-phone-wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="250" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8ceeElmtQA/UJvtFwzde6I/AAAAAAAAIYE/yuaAM87FkeQ/s400/fall-desktop-phone-wallpaper.jpg" /></a></div>Download non-traditional fall wallpapers for desktops and iPhones from <a href="http://imm-living.com/" target="_blank">imm Living</a>, a design company based in Toronto. Nothing says autumn like cats and unicorns. <a href="http://blogimmliving.tumblr.com/post/34831211379/introducing-imm-living-wallpaper-free-downloads" target="_blank">Grab them here</a>.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-29835695897887851322012-11-07T13:04:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.862-08:00Make pie chart paper pendants<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3snfwa8fJc/UJrDpWOG0rI/AAAAAAAAIWw/81Z9MfWfz7E/s1600/color-block-diy-necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="287" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3snfwa8fJc/UJrDpWOG0rI/AAAAAAAAIWw/81Z9MfWfz7E/s400/color-block-diy-necklace.jpg" /></a></div>If charts, graphs and metrics are your thing, you might enjoy crafting some pie chart pendants. They're made entirely of paper. Oh, and a little glue, thread and a jump ring if you want to get technical. Which you probably do, if you're the kind of person who likes pie charts.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEnPWGroDTk/UJrDp3OrLOI/AAAAAAAAIW8/gekzdPzQStk/s1600/supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="272" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEnPWGroDTk/UJrDp3OrLOI/AAAAAAAAIW8/gekzdPzQStk/s400/supplies.jpg" /></a></div>With a punch (I used a 1" circle), cut out about 12 circles of cardstock. You can add as many circles to the pendant as needed to get the thickness you want, of course. The ones I made are 1/8" thick. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RegBskvsJE/UJrDqg8zOPI/AAAAAAAAIXI/361Fniyjlto/s1600/glue-on-string.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="306" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RegBskvsJE/UJrDqg8zOPI/AAAAAAAAIXI/361Fniyjlto/s400/glue-on-string.jpg" /></a></div>Glue the circles into a stack one at a time. Be sure you get the glue all the way to the edges, and use just a small amount so things don't get messy. Stop at the half-way point. <br /><br />Double a small length of thread and tie it to a jump ring. Make sure the opening in the ring isn't covered by the thread. Glue the thread to the paper stack with the ring sticking out, then keep adding layers on top until the pendant is the desired thickness.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5z4xa7i6xTg/UJrDrs0bQQI/AAAAAAAAIXU/_CIrbuKmPZI/s1600/mod-podge-dimensional-magic.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="293" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5z4xa7i6xTg/UJrDrs0bQQI/AAAAAAAAIXU/_CIrbuKmPZI/s400/mod-podge-dimensional-magic.jpg" /></a></div>Cut some wedges of colored paper for the top layer and glue them on. When all the glue is dry, the paper pendant will be very hard. <br /><br />To seal it, you can brush it with <a href="http://www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2012/09/using-polycrylic-coating-on-origami.html" target="_blank">polycrylic</a> or Triple Thick. To make a shiny, glass-like surface, try some Mod Podge Dimensional Magic, Aleene's Paper Glaze, or Diamond Glaze. Test the products first on a scrap of paper to make sure colors won't bleed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GwxaT7E9lm0/UJrDsQuikFI/AAAAAAAAIXg/uMajXlBepDo/s1600/diy-paper-jewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="255" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GwxaT7E9lm0/UJrDsQuikFI/AAAAAAAAIXg/uMajXlBepDo/s400/diy-paper-jewelry.jpg" /></a></div>The little DIY color-blocked necklaces are cute and light-weight. Just don't wear them in the shower!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-75155225522127516512012-11-06T12:37:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.917-08:00"Go Vote" illustrations by artists<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgrerajZWIM/UJlzEsUZxcI/AAAAAAAAIWM/zNlN2N3OTaQ/s1600/go-vote.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="500" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgrerajZWIM/UJlzEsUZxcI/AAAAAAAAIWM/zNlN2N3OTaQ/s800/go-vote.gif" /></a></div>Americans, did you do it yet? To help with motivation, <a href="http://govote.org/" target="_blank">GoVote.org</a> has a gallery of hundreds of illustrations from artists nationwide. You can even update your Facebook cover image with <a href="http://govotenov6.tumblr.com/post/35097234584/julianna-johnson" target="_blank">this one</a>. Enjoy! The illustration above is by <a href="http://govotenov6.tumblr.com/post/34710470490/yoursroxanne" target="_blank">Yours, Roxanne</a>.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-40464795733193696762012-11-05T09:36:00.000-08:002012-12-09T08:54:31.973-08:00Dog collars and leashes at JCP<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dCIcheOsnWg/UJfgOwRtF2I/AAAAAAAAIUs/6yCyuc45P78/s1600/hello-leash.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="503" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dCIcheOsnWg/UJfgOwRtF2I/AAAAAAAAIUs/6yCyuc45P78/s800/hello-leash.png" /></a></div>Here's a bit of design work from months ago. I just got samples in the mail. My client L.L. Lily was approached by JC Penney to produce some exclusive dog collar sets, and I was contracted to create designs for the woven ribbon that goes on them. "Something Ellen deGeneres would like" was the instruction. (Apparently Ellen would have a hand in picking the designs, being the official JCP spokesperson.) Um... I have no idea what Ellen's taste in dog collars is. And I have no idea if she ever saw them, but these two options were selected: retro-style greetings and a basic stripe. <br /><br />The "Hey" design is my fave. It's what I hope dogs are thinking when I pass them on the sidewalk. Instead of, "I would bite you if only my leash was long enough." <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBmH5fhhb98/UJf4jcOJ5xI/AAAAAAAAIVo/5_bA1lKJoIQ/s1600/stripe-collar.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="261" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBmH5fhhb98/UJf4jcOJ5xI/AAAAAAAAIVo/5_bA1lKJoIQ/s400/stripe-collar.jpg" /></a></div>The collar and leash sets come with 6' leashes and adjustable collars in sizes S (9"-15"), M (12"-18"), and L (14"-21"). Rumor had it they would be in 600 JCP stores as of Nov. 1. I see they're <a href="http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/ll-lily-dog-leash-and-collar-set-/prod.jump?ppId=pp5001940807&catId=cat100210004&deptId=dept20000011&N=4294963640&topDim=Item+Type&topDimvalue=pet+collars%2Bleashes&dimCombo=Item+Type%7C&dimComboVal=pet+collars%2Bleashes%7C¤tDim=Item+Type¤tDimVal=pet+collars%2Bleashes" target="_blank">available online</a>, too. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBU3-OOW5k8/UJfhDcvd_II/AAAAAAAAIU4/uv4OqeXcNnA/s1600/lllily-jcp-leash-box.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="289" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBU3-OOW5k8/UJfhDcvd_II/AAAAAAAAIU4/uv4OqeXcNnA/s400/lllily-jcp-leash-box.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uHLV6iA1Y9A/UJf39yF4PNI/AAAAAAAAIVc/pHtpSdHx0Cc/s1600/jcp-collar-leash.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="146" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uHLV6iA1Y9A/UJf39yF4PNI/AAAAAAAAIVc/pHtpSdHx0Cc/s400/jcp-collar-leash.png" /></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-22105608901987132812012-11-02T13:37:00.000-07:002012-12-09T08:54:32.029-08:00DIY ideas for blank walls<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GxPqf2CYA4/UJQspH4CqZI/AAAAAAAAITM/CQcljvmOhXI/s1600/diy-wall-ideas-on-pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="284" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GxPqf2CYA4/UJQspH4CqZI/AAAAAAAAITM/CQcljvmOhXI/s400/diy-wall-ideas-on-pinterest.jpg" /></a></div>Blank walls are always a challenge, unless you've got an interior designer, artist friends, or buckets of money. I've collected some <a href="http://pinterest.com/howaboutorange/ideas-for-blank-walls/" target="_blank">wall art ideas here</a> on Pinterest that require varying amounts of skill to execute. If you've got a wall that needs some help, maybe something will spark an idea. I won't blame you if you don't attempt the one that requires <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/141441244518522428/" target="_blank">350,000 Post-it notes</a>.</div><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-37515467479222483442012-11-01T10:29:00.000-07:002012-12-09T08:54:32.085-08:00DIY postcard wall art<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kk_mqMQycE/UJKXjZM9SfI/AAAAAAAAISc/BsHEKyt7Nsc/s1600/diy-postcard-wall-art.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="592" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kk_mqMQycE/UJKXjZM9SfI/AAAAAAAAISc/BsHEKyt7Nsc/s800/diy-postcard-wall-art.png" /></a></div>I made something new for the living room: a big collage of postcards mounted on foam board.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3dYiEgY_8M/UJKUVX2hRjI/AAAAAAAAIR4/hPSsVGm2hCc/s1600/postcard-set-from-penguin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3dYiEgY_8M/UJKUVX2hRjI/AAAAAAAAIR4/hPSsVGm2hCc/s800/postcard-set-from-penguin.jpg" /></a></div>This boxed set of 100 vintage Penguin book cover postcards was on the clearance table at Anthropologie a couple weeks ago. I had to have it. I love books. I love the cover designs, and I love the color palette. They were too good not to display somehow. You can also <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Postcards-Penguin-Hundred-Book-Covers/dp/0141044667" target="_blank">get them here</a> from Amazon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3G95pZJY_Y/UJKTP1y8kqI/AAAAAAAAIQY/e4tdeJn7XSU/s1600/3d-foam-board-risers.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="273" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3G95pZJY_Y/UJKTP1y8kqI/AAAAAAAAIQY/e4tdeJn7XSU/s400/3d-foam-board-risers.jpg" /></a></div>I decided to lay out my favorites on the biggest piece of foamcore I could find at my local art store (30"x40" for $5). It seemed more interesting to give the collage a 3D look with postcards coming forward at different heights. So I cut some small pieces of foam board and stacked them to create "risers" for some of the cards. I used one, two, or three layers to vary the depth.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEP2opTjqmA/UJKTQApEIZI/AAAAAAAAIQk/NxpGegAiuc0/s1600/double-sided-tape.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="289" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEP2opTjqmA/UJKTQApEIZI/AAAAAAAAIQk/NxpGegAiuc0/s400/double-sided-tape.jpg" /></a></div>I stuck the foam pieces together and attached the postcards to the board with double-sided ATG tape I had on hand. It was better than wet glue which could warp the postcards. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUBa15kB0HA/UJKTQgi-kRI/AAAAAAAAIQw/7Z-_NqAHSb8/s1600/postcard-wall-art-closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUBa15kB0HA/UJKTQgi-kRI/AAAAAAAAIQw/7Z-_NqAHSb8/s400/postcard-wall-art-closeup.jpg" /></a></div>I could have measured and cut the foam board to the precise size before sticking on the postcards, but I wanted to be certain of having a perfectly trimmed edge that was flush with the cards. So I opted to trim the board after seeing where the postcards ended up (keeping the 3D ones aligned was a bit tricky). Starting at the top left corner and working down, I stuck all the postcards onto the board except for the right-most column and the bottom row. Then I marked where the edges of the last cards would end up and cut off the excess board with an X-acto knife on a cutting mat. I aligned the last postcards with the edge and attached them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCY5pBxHMsY/UJKTiMM0NnI/AAAAAAAAIRQ/2t_3R2oBvsc/s1600/how-to-hang-foam-board.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCY5pBxHMsY/UJKTiMM0NnI/AAAAAAAAIRQ/2t_3R2oBvsc/s800/how-to-hang-foam-board.jpg" /></a></div>To keep the large foam board from warping and to make a way to hang it on the wall, I hot-glued it to wooden stretcher bars. This frame had an old canvas stretched on it that I removed so I could reuse it. You could also buy wooden stretcher bars for a couple bucks each at an art store; they come in any length you could possibly want and have slotted corners for snapping them together (<a href="http://www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2007/10/how-to-make-fabric-panel-wall-art.html" target="_blank">details here</a>). The frame can be smaller than the foam board; mine happened to be the same height. <br /><br />I added a sawtooth hanger to the top. One was enough because it's a pretty light-weight piece. You could also use picture wire or any hanging method you like. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r7DVt342_NY/UJKTiw3byhI/AAAAAAAAIRg/NLkA3b9FKOU/s1600/protective-corner-pad.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="314" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r7DVt342_NY/UJKTiw3byhI/AAAAAAAAIRg/NLkA3b9FKOU/s400/protective-corner-pad.jpg" /></a></div>I added self-adhesive felt pads to the four corners to protect the wall from scratches.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rnt2CDPg-lY/UJKX3xXIAlI/AAAAAAAAISo/HkqM4AfFtQY/s1600/penguin-books-postcard-art.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="590" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rnt2CDPg-lY/UJKX3xXIAlI/AAAAAAAAISo/HkqM4AfFtQY/s800/penguin-books-postcard-art.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3doBRcK-U6g/UJKTRKrSDQI/AAAAAAAAIQ8/uvkhV_l7yqM/s1600/intelligent-woman%2527s-guide.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="290" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3doBRcK-U6g/UJKTRKrSDQI/AAAAAAAAIQ8/uvkhV_l7yqM/s400/intelligent-woman%2527s-guide.jpg" /></a></div>The book titles are very interesting. "An Intelligent Woman's Guide"? Is it different than the guide for men? Is there another guide for non-intelligent women? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BTENCv_nPNo/UJKTgpzV3lI/AAAAAAAAIRI/9F7-JghiFYU/s1600/there-must-be-a-pony.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="281" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BTENCv_nPNo/UJKTgpzV3lI/AAAAAAAAIRI/9F7-JghiFYU/s400/there-must-be-a-pony.jpg" /></a></div>Yes, there must be a pony! I haven't heard of this novel, but the title makes me happy. Oh, I just searched and <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/there-must-be-a-pony!" target="_blank">here's</a> where it comes from. <br /><br />I hope visitors enjoy reading the book titles as much as I do. <i>Soft Fruit Growing</i>, <i>Scootering</i>, <i>Explosives</i>, and <i>Aircraft Recognition</i> all sound like very useful manuals and could make a person quite well-rounded.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-32330635861510199602012-10-31T08:00:00.000-07:002012-12-09T08:54:32.142-08:00Make paper Halloween monsters<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b2dL2RSbjzg/UJE6-K4YYJI/AAAAAAAAIPs/We7FT2_dDiU/s1600/halloween-paper-craft.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="207" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b2dL2RSbjzg/UJE6-K4YYJI/AAAAAAAAIPs/We7FT2_dDiU/s400/halloween-paper-craft.jpg" /></a></div>Happy Halloween! Doesn't your desk need a paper monster in a Halloween costume? You'd rather make these than get any work done, wouldn't you? Scout Creative has designed printable templates you can <a href="http://www.goscoutcreative.com/trick-or-treat-monitor-monsters/" target="_blank">download for free</a>.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7007442960424440117.post-46326272452248675292012-10-29T12:54:00.000-07:002012-12-09T08:54:32.198-08:00Generate plaid backgrounds<div style="line-height: 1.6em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNZZN8dF9Wo/UI7c3KxOW1I/AAAAAAAAIPM/hNdpecgULOQ/s1600/plaid-generator.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="305" width="400" img style="margin:0px auto 10px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNZZN8dF9Wo/UI7c3KxOW1I/AAAAAAAAIPM/hNdpecgULOQ/s400/plaid-generator.gif" /></a></div>If you're mad about plaid, you might enjoy <a href="http://plaidmaker.org/" target="_blank">PlaidMaker</a>, an online tool that lets you design your own tartan. Pixels mimic threads, and you can create subtle patterns at a tiny scale, or bold prints in wild colors. Start from scratch or check out the <a href="http://plaidmaker.org/gallery" target="_blank">gallery</a> of user-generated plaids and modify any you like. Then download a .png file that will tile seamlessly. Use it for website backgrounds or wallpapers. Or, once you've got it tiled across a screen, you could take a <a href="http://take-a-screenshot.org/" target="_blank">screenshot</a> and use it for your Facebook cover image.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335968959330108342noreply@blogger.com0