tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61706841702523822212024-03-13T21:46:59.824-07:00iDo-It-Myself~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-25457754711346010812015-08-02T09:54:00.000-07:002015-08-02T09:54:00.337-07:00Recipe: Sausage and Potato Soup with Green Beans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmPo7M42_Nk/Vbz3bfEtq3I/AAAAAAAABIg/3L_nEvZoTWQ/s1600/IMG_1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GmPo7M42_Nk/Vbz3bfEtq3I/AAAAAAAABIg/3L_nEvZoTWQ/s320/IMG_1200.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is not a very flattering picture, but I was lazy and this is just for documentation purposes. =P The shine on the soup makes it look oily in the photo, but it really isn't. Our kitchen just has bad lighting for pictures. I wanted to keep track of the basics for this soup, though, because again, Al liked it! The goal for this was to use up a bunch of vegetables that I had lying around.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>4 shallots - diced</li>
<li>~3 lb. russet potatoes - diced</li>
<li>~1 lb.. green beans - trimmed, cut into 1-2 in. pieces</li>
<li>leaves from around 8 sprigs of fresh thyme</li>
<li>~ 1 tbsp. fresh rosemary</li>
<li>28 oz. can petite diced tomatoes</li>
<li>4 cups low sodium chicken broth</li>
<li>1.25 lb. hot Italian turkey sausage</li>
</ul>
<div>
Directions:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Heat a splash of olive oil in a hot non-stick pan and saute until the shallots become translucent and begin to brown a little.</li>
<li>Add a little more olive oil and the potatoes. Season with some salt and pepper and cook until potatoes begin to brown and are cooked through.</li>
<li>Add fresh thyme and rosemary leaves (I just used a bunch from my garden - as many thyme leaves as I could pull before I got annoyed, and rosemary leaves from a 6-in. stem)</li>
<li>Add green beans and cook for a few minutes.</li>
<li>Transfer all the vegetables to a large pot. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth and bring to a boil, then simmer on low.</li>
<li>Cook turkey sausage in the same non-stick pan from the vegetables - crumbling it into chunks with the back of the spoon. Drain the fat and then add to the soup.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Once the soup sat over night, the starches from the potatoes thickened it up a little and it was very yummy!</div>
</div>
~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-70080266181899803602015-08-01T09:38:00.000-07:002015-08-01T09:38:06.804-07:00Recipe: Cantaloupe and Cucumber Salad with White Wine Vinaigrette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kt47Etp22NA/VbzvRA1hXyI/AAAAAAAABIQ/k8ha6W9mZUs/s1600/IMG_1205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kt47Etp22NA/VbzvRA1hXyI/AAAAAAAABIQ/k8ha6W9mZUs/s320/IMG_1205.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Two events led to the creation of this dish: I had a delicious Summer Melon Salad at Pizza Antica last week, and then I saw cantaloupes on sale for 3 for a dollar. It was meant to be! I've already made this salad twice this week because Al liked it so much.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>spinach/arugula mix</li>
<li>1 cantaloupe - cut into chunks</li>
<li>1 cucumber - cut into chunks</li>
<li>1 shallot (1/2 finely sliced, the other half diced)</li>
<li>1 tbsp. fresh mint leaves - finely chopped</li>
<li>1 avocado - sliced</li>
</ul>
<div>
For the vinaigrette:</div>
<ul>
<li>~2 tbsp. white wine vinegar</li>
<li>~1 tbsp. dijon mustard</li>
<li>~1/4 cup olive oil</li>
<li>freshly cracked black pepper</li>
</ul>
<div>
Directions:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>In a measuring cup, let the diced shallots sit in about 2 tbsp. of white wine vinegar (add for to cover if needed). While the shallots macerate in the vinegar, chop the cantaloupe, cucumber, the other half of the shallot, and mint. Toss them all together in a large bowl.</li>
<li>Add 1tbsp. dijon mustard to the measuring cup with shallots and vinegar, then add olive oil until the mixture is 1/2 a cup. Whisk everything together and season with freshly cracked black pepper.</li>
<li>Slice an avocado and toss with cantaloupe and cucumber mixture.</li>
<li>Toss spinach and arugula mix with just a little dressing (enough to slightly coat) and distribute to plates. Pour the rest of the dressing over the cantaloupes and cucumbers and toss. Mound on top of the spinach and arugula mix.</li>
</ol>
</div>
~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-76684109121353496152015-07-26T19:20:00.000-07:002015-07-26T19:20:49.566-07:007-Year Anniversary DinnerI haven't posted on this blog in a very long time, but I'm resolved to continue because I just realized that I have no good way of keeping track of all the things that I have made. The DIY crafts have kind of fizzled out a little as I got very busy with work, but if I happen to come up with ideas I will post them! Here is the menu for a dinner I made for Al last Friday for our 7th wedding anniversary<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0nTkWqm5Zwo/VbVu_hqlkFI/AAAAAAAABH0/A3_2bTveM2k/s1600/IMG_1191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0nTkWqm5Zwo/VbVu_hqlkFI/AAAAAAAABH0/A3_2bTveM2k/s320/IMG_1191.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
1. Beef Wellington (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uXIPhxL5XA" target="_blank">Gordon Ramsay Video</a>)<br />
2. <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/artichoke-and-fennel-ravioli-with-tomato-fennel-sauce-2892" target="_blank">Artichoke and Fennel</a> Ravioli with Tomato-Fennel Sauce<br />
3. <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/golden-and-crimson-beet-salad-with-oranges-fennel-and-feta-236187" target="_blank">Golden and Crimson Beet Salad with Oranges, Fennel, and Feta</a><br />
4. <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/bacon-hasselback-potatoes-recipe.html" target="_blank">Bacon Hasselback Potatoes</a><br />
5. <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/molten-chocolate-cakes-vongerichten" target="_blank">Molten Chocolate Cakes</a> (not pictured)<br />
<br />
<b><u>1. Beef Wellington</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I must have watched Gordon Ramsay make Beef Wellington at least a dozen times on the video. I also referenced <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/the-ultimate-beef-wellington-recipe2.html" target="_blank">Tyler Florence's Ultimate Beef Wellington Recipe</a> as well. The following recipe is a summary of the quantities that I used and what I did. I have wanted to make Beef Wellington for many years now, but it was always hard to justify the expense. I figured that our 7-year anniversary would certainly qualify! <br />
<br />
The hardest part was actually finding a beef tenderloin that was close to 3 pounds. I went to Costco, Sprouts, Whole Foods, and at least 5 Safeways before finding one. Maybe they are more popular around the holidays? Anyways, I found a 2.5 lb. beef tenderloin at Safeway for $19.99. Safeway actually also had English mustard - Colman's mustard, and I thought that I would need to search a little more for that.<br />
<br />
Some things to remember for the next time I make this dish: I would definitely trim my beef down into a more perfect cylinder. I couldn't stand the thought of wasting any part of such an expensive piece of meat (our normal dinners are chicken breast that I find for 1.88/lb!), so I only trimmed some of the fat when I could have trimmed off a little more. I also would roll out the puff pastry more to make sure that it can form a tighter wrap - the puff pastry split open on one side a leaked a little liquid when it was baking. Otherwise, it wasn't too hard to make a successful Beef Wellington! =)<br />
<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>3-lb. beef tenderloin (filet mignon)</li>
<li>700g mushrooms (1.5 lb)</li>
<li>2 shallots</li>
<li>4 cloves of garlic</li>
<li>2 sprigs of fresh thyme</li>
<li>English mustard</li>
<li>12 slices prosciutto</li>
<li>1 lb. puff pastry</li>
<li>egg for egg wash</li>
</ul>
<div>
PREPARATION</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Duxelles: pulse mushrooms, shallots, and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped. Cook in a dry pan until most of the liquid has evaporated. Add thyme and let cool.</li>
<li>Season beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in hot pan and sear beef on all sides. Remove to plate and brush with English mustard while it's hot.</li>
<li>On plastic wrap, lay the prosciutto slices side-by-side so that it creates a rectangle big enough to encompass the beef. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Spread mushroom mixture on top in a even layer, 1/2-inch from the edge. Place beef on top and roll tightly with the plastic wrap. Place in fridge for 15 minutes to firm up.</li>
<li>Roll out puff pastry in an even layer. Brush with egg wash and place beef-mushroom-prosciutto roll on top. Roll tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Place in fridge for another 5-15 minutes. Can be made the night before.</li>
<li>Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place Beef Wellington on a baking sheet and brush with egg wash. Score top of pastry with the back edge of a knife, sprinkle sea salt on top. Bake for 35 - 40 minutes (I ended up baking mind for 38 minutes) until internal temperature reaches 125 degrees (for medium rare). Let the meat sit for 10 minutes before slicing.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b><u>2. Artichoke and Fennel Ravioli with Tomato-Fennel Sauce</u></b><br />
<br />
This "ravioli" had a really nice delicate flavor inside with the fennel and the artichoke hearts. I would love to make this again with actual pasta dough. It might be the Asian in me, but these just felt like I was eating Italian-style dumplings (haha, I guess that's what stuffed pasta is) instead of ravioli. It still tasted good though, and using wonton wrappers made the process a lot easier.<br />
<br />
Bon Appetit December 1993<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">YIELD: Serves 8 (serves 8 for maybe an appetizer course, definitely not for a meal)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">INGREDIENTS</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Filling</b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">5 large garlic cloves, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 9-ounce package frozen artichoke hearts, unthawed</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup chopped fresh fennel</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/2 cup canned vegetable broth or water (I used water)</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">2 tablespoons minced fresh fennel fronds</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 egg yolk</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">32 to 36 gyoza (round) wrappers or wonton wrappers</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 egg white</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Sauce</b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/4 cup olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">4 garlic cloves, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 cup chopped fresh fennel</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 1/4 teaspoons fennel seeds</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 28-ounce can Italian tomatoes</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">2 tablespoons tomato paste</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 teaspoon dried oregano</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1/8 teaspoon ground cloves</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Fresh fennel fronds</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white;">PREPARATION</span><div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">For filling:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Heat olive oil in heavy medium skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and fennel seeds and sauté 3 minutes. Add artichoke hearts and chopped fennel and stir 1 minute. Add vegetable broth and bring mixture to boil. Cover skillet and cook until vegetables are very tender, about 12 minutes. Uncover and simmer until pan juices have evaporated completely, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Scrape filling into processor and cool. Add fennel fronds and process to coarse puree. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add yolk and blend.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Line baking sheet with plastic wrap. If using wonton wrappers, trim edges to form rounds. Brush entire surface of 1 wrapper lightly with egg white. Place 1 rounded teaspoon filling in center. Fold dough over, forming semi-circle. Seal edges, pressing out any air around filling. Place on prepared sheet. Repeat with remaining filling and wrappers. (Ravioli can be prepared ahead. Cover loosely with towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 8 hours, or cover with plastic and freeze 3 days. Do not thaw frozen ravioli before cooking.)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">For sauce:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Heat oil in heavy large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic, fennel and fennel seeds and sauté until tender, about 12 minutes. Add tomatoes with their juices and next 4 ingredients. Simmer until sauce thickens, breaking up tomatoes with back of spoon, about 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover; chill. Rewarm before using.)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Boil ravioli in large pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well. Spoon some sauce on each plate. Arrange ravioli atop sauce. Garnish with fresh fennel fronds.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><u>3. Golden and Crimson Beet Salad with Oranges, Fennel, and Feta</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Other than skipping the feta cheese in this recipe, I followed it exactly and it was just delicious! I love the taste of the oranges and the beets together. I will definitely make this again!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Bon Appetit October 2006</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><div>
YIELD: Makes 6 servings</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
INGREDIENTS</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>2 large (3-inch-diameter) red beets, all but 1 inch of tops trimmed</li>
<li>2 large (3-inch-diameter) golden beets, all but 1 inch of tops trimmed</li>
<li>5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided</li>
<li>4 oranges</li>
<li>1 small fresh fennel bulb, trimmed, quartered, cored, cut into paper-thin strips</li>
<li>1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint</li>
<li>1/4 cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley</li>
<li>1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted, husked, halved</li>
<li>1 small shallot, finely chopped</li>
<li>1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar</li>
<li>Coarse kosher salt</li>
<li>Freshly ground white pepper</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups coarsely crumbled feta cheese</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
PREPARATION</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place all beets in 9x9x2-inch metal pan. Drizzle 3 tablespoons oil over; sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Cover pan with foil and roast beets until tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Uncover and cool completely. Peel beets, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, and place in large bowl, each color on opposite side; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Do ahead Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before using.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Cut all peel and pith off oranges. Working over medium bowl to catch orange juice, cut between membranes, releasing segments. Add 1 cup orange segments, fennel, mint, parsley, hazelnuts, and shallot to bowl with beets. Transfer 2 teaspoons orange juice to small bowl; whisk in vinegar and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and white pepper. Stir into beet mixture.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mound salad on large platter. Drain remaining orange segments; arrange on salad. Sprinkle with cheese.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>4. Bacon Hasselback Potatoes</u></b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Oh man these potatoes were yummy! They took a lot more time to make than I anticipated though - it was tricky slicing the potatoes without slicing them through, and then the bacon slices kept popping out as I tried to stuff them in between. I ended up cutting most of the potatoes in half so that they had more room to fan out with the bacon in between them. I used russet potatoes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recipe courtesy of Food Network Kitchens</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
YIELD: 12 servings</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
INGREDIENTS</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>4 slices thick-cut bacon, each cut crosswise into 9 pieces</li>
<li>Kosher salt</li>
<li>12 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled</li>
<li>1 stick unsalted butter</li>
<li>Sea salt and freshly ground pepper</li>
<li>2 scallions, finely chopped</li>
<li>2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley</li>
<li>1 clove garlic, finely chopped</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
Directions</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lay the bacon pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until hard, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Using a sharp knife, make crosswise cuts in each potato, about 1/8 inch apart, stopping about 1/4 inch from the bottom.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook 4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and carefully transfer to a baking sheet; let cool slightly. Pat the potatoes dry, then insert 3 pieces of the frozen bacon into the cuts of each potato, spacing the bacon evenly and letting it poke out of the top. Melt 5 tablespoons butter and brush generously over the potatoes and in the cuts. Reserve any excess butter for basting. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Transfer the potatoes to the oven and bake until the outsides are browned and crisp, about 2 hours, basting halfway through with the reserved melted butter.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When the potatoes are almost done, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and mix with the scallions, parsley and garlic. Spoon over the potatoes and roast 5 more minutes. Transfer to a platter and season with salt and pepper.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>5. Molten Chocolate Cakes</u></b></div>
<div>
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div>
These cakes were super rich and chocolate-y. They were so rich that we ran out of ice cream to eat with each bite and had to scoop some more out. It was very easy to make and had a gooey chocolate center after I baked it for 12 minutes. For the ramekins, I brushed them with butter and then dusted it with cocoa powder instead of flour because I saw Gordon Ramsay do that with his Chocolate Fondant (another recipe I wanted to try, but it calls for golden caster sugar and that is hard to find in the States)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
YIELD: 4 servings</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
INGREDIENTS</div>
<div>
1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter</div>
<div>
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, preferably Valrhona</div>
<div>
2 eggs</div>
<div>
2 egg yolks</div>
<div>
1/4 cup sugar</div>
<div>
Pinch of salt</div>
<div>
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
DIRECTIONS</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
1. Preheat the oven to 450°. Butter and lightly flour four 6-ounce ramekins. Tap out the excess flour. Set the ramekins on a baking sheet.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. In a double boiler, over simmering water, melt the butter with the chocolate. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the egg yolks, sugar and salt at high speed until thickened and pale.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3. Whisk the chocolate until smooth. Quickly fold it into the egg mixture along with the flour. Spoon the batter into the prepared ramekins and bake for 12 minutes, or until the sides of the cakes are firm but the centers are soft. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted dessert plate. Carefully turn each one over, let stand for 10 seconds and then unmold. Serve immediately.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
MAKE AHEAD</div>
<div>
The batter can be refrigerated for several hours; bring to room temperature before baking.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I ended up making enough food to give us a total of 3 gourmet dinners! The leftovers were delicious. To reheat the beef wellington, I put slices on a baking sheet and baked in a 350 degree oven for 8 minutes. They end up cooking a little bit more (becoming medium instead of medium rare), but get warm enough for Al to eat and are still tender and flavorful.</div>
</span></div>
~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-75973613022585068552012-03-31T23:00:00.003-07:002012-03-31T23:16:35.476-07:00DIY Wedding Guest Book - Stamped Tree Collage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OB6SnKyC4O4/T3fZTuvLIcI/AAAAAAAAAjU/8ueH27fC72g/s1600/_MG_2166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OB6SnKyC4O4/T3fZTuvLIcI/AAAAAAAAAjU/8ueH27fC72g/s320/_MG_2166.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Wedding guest books are so special to read and keep after the wedding--the only problem is that you have to take it out and actually take time to read it. We have probably only read our guest book a couple times since our wedding just because it is usually boxed away with our other wedding memorabilia. That's why I love the idea of turning your wedding guest book into a work of art. Here's a wedding idea that you can hang up in our house and look at often. Instead of signing a guest book, guests stamp and sign their names on a blank canvas to complete a picture. Thanks to Esther and Joy for helping me with this project!<br />
<div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JSb43JCX2lA/T3fZJ28ajjI/AAAAAAAAAiM/mBNx2YWMxYs/s1600/_MG_2132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JSb43JCX2lA/T3fZJ28ajjI/AAAAAAAAAiM/mBNx2YWMxYs/s320/_MG_2132.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Materials: stiff posterboard or canvas, <span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>leaf stamps, green inkpad, brown paint, <span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>paint brush</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>Paint the branches of a tree and letters onto
the blank canvas with brown paint. If
you don’t want to free draw the tree, try this simple technique:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vKiZP5IEIIU/T3fZNL1mJzI/AAAAAAAAAis/2MMx_qaXLB0/s1600/_MG_2146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vKiZP5IEIIU/T3fZNL1mJzI/AAAAAAAAAis/2MMx_qaXLB0/s320/_MG_2146.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. Print out a picture of a tree you want to trace
and enlarge if necessary.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 9px;"> </span></span>On the back of the paper, use a lead pencil to
shade in areas of where the tree is printed on the front side.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44QNh486_F4/T3fZK0XoSVI/AAAAAAAAAiU/m5aU_VKW6OU/s1600/_MG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44QNh486_F4/T3fZK0XoSVI/AAAAAAAAAiU/m5aU_VKW6OU/s320/_MG_2136.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Place the printed picture of the tree on top of
your canvas and secure it with tape. With a pencil or a ballpoint pen, trace the tree
on the front side of the paper.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FI6xMIQj2zc/T3fZLtN-q9I/AAAAAAAAAic/24cwRuFzYKc/s1600/_MG_2139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FI6xMIQj2zc/T3fZLtN-q9I/AAAAAAAAAic/24cwRuFzYKc/s320/_MG_2139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. The shaded pencil on the back of the paper will make a carbon-like print onto the canvas.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NuzIdTcNR7A/T3fZMc1w0HI/AAAAAAAAAik/OBi2rHLlUm0/s1600/_MG_2143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NuzIdTcNR7A/T3fZMc1w0HI/AAAAAAAAAik/OBi2rHLlUm0/s320/_MG_2143.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. Remove the paper and paint over the pencil lines
on canvas.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrWxAZ18Mdw/T3fymMM56EI/AAAAAAAAAjc/Ee7RLU-O7nc/s1600/_MG_2155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrWxAZ18Mdw/T3fymMM56EI/AAAAAAAAAjc/Ee7RLU-O7nc/s320/_MG_2155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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5. You can repeat the above process to paint names on to the canvas.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FY39rGwKDw/T3fZQwZfT_I/AAAAAAAAAjE/5kXlTrN-jEw/s1600/_MG_2156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FY39rGwKDw/T3fZQwZfT_I/AAAAAAAAAjE/5kXlTrN-jEw/s320/_MG_2156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On your wedding day, leave out stamp pads and
leaf stamps for guests to stamp onto the tree.
Have guests sign their names on each leaf with a permanent marker.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DQ6ZabEuw0/T3fZSQuPP4I/AAAAAAAAAjM/93yaTD3lvP4/s1600/_MG_2160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DQ6ZabEuw0/T3fZSQuPP4I/AAAAAAAAAjM/93yaTD3lvP4/s320/_MG_2160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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-<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>If you are using a stretched canvas for your
collage, stack a book or magazines underneath the canvas to fill in the empty
space underneath the canvas. This will
help guests to stamp evenly onto the canvas.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Have fun!<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-33199305708136139942012-02-28T19:29:00.000-08:002012-02-28T19:29:02.145-08:00Lego Place Cards<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHSof6aUsCg/T02YX28BMiI/AAAAAAAAAhc/EZ3gJI521NY/s1600/_MG_1869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHSof6aUsCg/T02YX28BMiI/AAAAAAAAAhc/EZ3gJI521NY/s320/_MG_1869.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lego Place Cards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Last November, I was unfortunately unable to attend the wedding of our close friends, Anjie and Preston. It was, therefore, super exciting to hear about their wedding and all the cool things they did to make their wedding unique and special! One thing Anjie and Preston told me about that I couldn't get out of my head was their use of Lego men for place cards, and I just had to make some for myself! (Yes, Al's name is on there because he really wants to keep one of them =)</div>
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A quick trip to the Lego store revealed to me how fancy Legos are these days! There are so many things you can add to Lego men--hats, facial hair, mohawks--I had to tear myself away from the store before I got caught up making too many variations. If I were planning a small wedding and I knew each of my guests well, I would have a blast trying to make each Lego place card look like each guest.</div>
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I think the pictures are pretty self explanatory for how to make the flags. Bamboo skewers that are used for kebabs and grilling are actually a perfect size for the Lego hands to hold. I used a white gel pen because I like the way the white words pop on the colored cardstock, but of course there are countless variations on how to make the flags.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G28IlKFpQY8/T02YVzlEGeI/AAAAAAAAAg0/ERTTQTjW6yk/s1600/_MG_1845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G28IlKFpQY8/T02YVzlEGeI/AAAAAAAAAg0/ERTTQTjW6yk/s320/_MG_1845.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JegakQ8swk/T02YW55XExI/AAAAAAAAAhM/sy5OhnFjxCs/s1600/_MG_1861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JegakQ8swk/T02YW55XExI/AAAAAAAAAhM/sy5OhnFjxCs/s320/_MG_1861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cAkYAKCud4M/T02YXZpRMlI/AAAAAAAAAhU/l43U3bUwBM4/s1600/_MG_1863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cAkYAKCud4M/T02YXZpRMlI/AAAAAAAAAhU/l43U3bUwBM4/s320/_MG_1863.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So cute! Anjie and Preston also color coordinated their Lego blocks to indicate each guest's meal order at their wedding--yay for multi-tasking!</div>
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Have fun!</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-6732566210861067042012-01-12T14:28:00.000-08:002012-01-12T14:28:07.026-08:00Cardigans for MomThis is a little belated, but I wanted to finally share December's completed projects! After frantically knitting all night before Christmas, I was able to finish a cardigan for both my mom and Al's mom for Christmas. I chose two patterns that were pretty easy to follow and didn't take as much time as the cabled pattern that I knit for Al last year.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0n43ZLrO_4/Tw9cLwqnqBI/AAAAAAAAAgY/4dI7BAqznec/s1600/cardigan-lau.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0n43ZLrO_4/Tw9cLwqnqBI/AAAAAAAAAgY/4dI7BAqznec/s640/cardigan-lau.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made this cardigan for my mom with a bamboo ewe yarn by Stitch Nation and followed the <a href="http://www.stitchnationyarn.com/Patterns/my-fair-cardi.html">My Fair Cardi</a> pattern. I followed the instructions and measured my garment according to directions for a Medium sized cardigan, but it still turned out a lot smaller than I thought it would. I don't know if it's just me, being an amateur knitter, or the pattern, but I have now mentally noted to take more notice of the size of the pieces as I knit them so I can adjust accordingly in the future.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bgdwpqsRS0/Tw9dM_GlryI/AAAAAAAAAgg/RgBzoFPVWqo/s1600/cardigan-ho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bgdwpqsRS0/Tw9dM_GlryI/AAAAAAAAAgg/RgBzoFPVWqo/s640/cardigan-ho.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made this cardigan for Al's mom using a silky bamboo yarn by Naturally Caron and followed the <a href="http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/baton_rouge/baton_rouge_1.html">Baton Rouge Cropped Jacket</a> pattern. I didn't realize until after I was nearly finished that I actually was using a different yarn than the one on the pattern (mine was spa, the yarn in the pattern was country). I liked the pattern, but I wasn't a huge fan of the yarn. The silky yarn was very soft, but it snagged easily (I have rough hands!) and was not woven very tightly, so my knitting needles often only picked up part of the strand. (Again, that might just be because I'm just an amateur knitter!)<br />
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I can't wait until my next knitting projects, but it might have to wait awhile--my hands and wrists are still recovering!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-13613162193246097712011-12-23T07:13:00.000-08:002011-12-23T07:33:23.837-08:00Rice Krispies Treat Star Favors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2n1U47L6RhA/TvSXZqu-IeI/AAAAAAAAAfU/V-wcgGzf9JQ/s1600/_MG_0623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2n1U47L6RhA/TvSXZqu-IeI/AAAAAAAAAfU/V-wcgGzf9JQ/s320/_MG_0623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Rice krispies treats are a classic snack that are easy to turn into a fun favor for a holiday party, a bridal shower, or even your wedding. All you need to do is make the original Rice Krispies Treats recipe and let your creative juices flow! I made stars for a holiday party and was very happy with how easy they were to make:</div>
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<u>The Original Treats (from <a href="http://www.ricekrispies.com/recipes/the-original-treats.aspx#/recipes/the-original-treats">Ricekrispies.com</a>)</u></div>
Ingredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>3 tablespoons butter or margarine</li>
<li>1 package (10 oz., about 40) regular marshmallows</li>
<li>- OR -</li>
<li>4 cups miniature marshmallows</li>
<li>6 cups Rice Krispies®</li>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
<ol>
<li>In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.</li>
<li>Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.</li>
<li>Using buttered spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.</li>
</ol>
<div>
To make the stars:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DL9P9L5DgdA/TvSXDEifMrI/AAAAAAAAAew/SNgV_FSwbdo/s1600/_MG_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DL9P9L5DgdA/TvSXDEifMrI/AAAAAAAAAew/SNgV_FSwbdo/s320/_MG_0615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Press the rice krispies mixture onto a pan as thick or as thin as you want the stars. I made my stars thinner because I wanted to make more out of the batch. Use a cookie cutter to cut out stars.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L38wTgtB_KY/TvSXEZ-w2WI/AAAAAAAAAe4/fD7viQkBYLQ/s1600/_MG_0620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L38wTgtB_KY/TvSXEZ-w2WI/AAAAAAAAAe4/fD7viQkBYLQ/s320/_MG_0620.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Dip the blunt end of a bamboo skewer into melted candy coating or melted chocolate and insert into cut-out star. This will help the skewer stay in place. If you have a thicker star cut out, you could also use lollipop sticks. If using bamboo skewers, trim off the pointed end with kitchen shears.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DjznnjTOaM/TvSXF-PJBSI/AAAAAAAAAfI/V66Xth1V8UY/s1600/_MG_0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DjznnjTOaM/TvSXF-PJBSI/AAAAAAAAAfI/V66Xth1V8UY/s320/_MG_0677.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. Once the stars are set in the skewers, coat with melted candy coating (I used Wilton's) and decorate with sprinkles. I had originally planned on dipping the whole star in melted candy coating, but after I tested one it was just way to sweet for the treat, so I just spread the candy coating like icing on one side of the star.</div>
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Have fun!</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-15740433673807918042011-12-02T11:53:00.001-08:002011-12-02T12:14:07.041-08:00DIY Caramel ApplesThis is my last apple project for a long time, I promise! I have wanted to make my own caramel apples for a long time, and I was thrilled to discover that it was incredibly simple. Homemade caramel apples would be the perfect wedding favor for a fall or apple-themed wedding. You can make them well in advance, and the simple ingredients make it an affordable project, too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY Caramel Apples<br />
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A simple way to make caramel apples is to dip them into melted caramel squares that you buy from the store. However, making your own caramel is actually quite simple and can save you a lot of money if you are making a lot of caramel apples.</div>
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I used <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/kittencals-caramel-apples-73274">Kittencal's Caramel Apples</a> recipe:</div>
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Ingredients: </div>
<ul>
<li>1 cup butter (no substitutes)</li>
<li>2 cups packed brown sugar</li>
<li>1 cup light corn syrup</li>
<li>1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk</li>
<li>2 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>8 -10 wooden sticks</li>
<li>8 -10 medium tart apples</li>
</ul>
<div>
Directions:</div>
<ol>
<li>Insert 1 wooden stick into each apple.</li>
<li>In a heavy saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and milk; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.</li>
<li>Cook and stir until a candy thermometer reads 248 degrees (firm ball stage) about 30-40 minutes and for a softer caramel cook just to a few less degrees.</li>
<li>Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.</li>
<li>Dip each apple into hot caramel mixture; turn to coat</li>
<li>Holding by the stick, sprinkle with nuts or whatever you desire while the caramel is still warm (work quickly the caramel sets up fast).</li>
<li>Set on generously buttered wax paper to cool (make certain to generously butter the paper).</li>
</ol>
Note: if making a double recipe make two recipes in two separate pots.<br />
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I used Wilson's cookie sticks because I liked the look of a white stick instead of a wooden one. You can also warp the sticks with ribbon or decorate it to make it look more elegant. I wanted a softer caramel, so I heated my caramel to 245 degrees, and was very happy with the texture. I rolled the leftover caramel into balls and Al and I nibbled on them for days afterwards! I also placed the dipped apples on parchment paper and had no issues with sticking.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HDOhNfC3FdM/TtktFooD8nI/AAAAAAAAAec/U4KSDdlHtbw/s1600/_MG_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HDOhNfC3FdM/TtktFooD8nI/AAAAAAAAAec/U4KSDdlHtbw/s320/_MG_0428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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To decorate the apples, I melted semi-sweet and white chocolate chips in the microwave and scooped the melted chocolate into plastic ziplock bags. I cut one corner off the plastic bag and used it to pipe chocolate onto the caramel apple. (Of course, if you have a pastry bag, you could just use that). I hate doing dishes and cleaning up, though, so it was nice just to toss the bags once I was done!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2HYHih0ati8/TtktF8VZpYI/AAAAAAAAAeg/IFtOOaUqnu4/s1600/_MG_0449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2HYHih0ati8/TtktF8VZpYI/AAAAAAAAAeg/IFtOOaUqnu4/s320/_MG_0449.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY caramel apple wedding favors<br />
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Lastly, since I was giving these apples away, I wrapped them in plastic treat bags from the Daiso store in Mountain View. The small apples were the perfect size for these bags. I placed a piece of parchment paper at the bottom of the bag just to prevent sticking, but I don't think it was actually necessary.</div>
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Also, this is what happens when I leave apples lying around an unattended husband: =P He also hid them under plates and bowls and it took me a while to get them all back!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHx_MjBLHUs/TtktE09D_8I/AAAAAAAAAeM/8ULFTH2IKz0/s1600/_MG_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHx_MjBLHUs/TtktE09D_8I/AAAAAAAAAeM/8ULFTH2IKz0/s320/_MG_0420.JPG" width="229" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;"></span></div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-44460904897760076662011-11-21T12:20:00.001-08:002011-11-21T12:49:54.699-08:00DIY Cinderella Pumpkin Carriage Centerpiece<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V8mnuYobf44/Tsqyx4oEqJI/AAAAAAAAAd4/69Wx130X3hg/s1600/IMG_0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V8mnuYobf44/Tsqyx4oEqJI/AAAAAAAAAd4/69Wx130X3hg/s320/IMG_0591.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I saw white pumpkins a few weeks ago, I immediately saw the potential for a really fun project. How can you see a pumpkin and not think of Cinderella's fairy tale pumpkin carriage? It took awhile to think through how to make the carriage happen, but now I'm really happy with the results! The hardest part was coming up with a practical way to make the carriage wheels--I tried to find cheap wooden wheels that I could buy, but in the end it was much easier and cheaper to make them myself. So for a fairy tale wedding centerpiece or a fun project, here's how to make a real pumpkin carriage:<br />
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Materials for wheels:<br />
- wire<br />
- modeling clay<br />
- glue and paper for paper mache<br />
- two bamboo skewers or wooden dowels<br />
- hot glue gun<br />
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To make the wheels:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJhaazK2LM4/TsqyuGxaMsI/AAAAAAAAAco/dKisr3q4l9U/s1600/_MG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJhaazK2LM4/TsqyuGxaMsI/AAAAAAAAAco/dKisr3q4l9U/s320/_MG_0455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 1: Twist pieces of wire to form wheels. Make two slightly larger than the other two. (Twist one longer piece into a circle, then make spokes by twisting three short pieces across the diameter of the circle). Press a piece of clay into the center to hold the spokes in place.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33aI4bRJosU/TsqyurG4biI/AAAAAAAAAcw/OyQ2WsnmkGE/s1600/_MG_0459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-33aI4bRJosU/TsqyurG4biI/AAAAAAAAAcw/OyQ2WsnmkGE/s320/_MG_0459.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 2: Cover the wire wheel with modeling clay to make it thicker.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXhPoXASRaQ/Tsqyu-MsNdI/AAAAAAAAAc4/JjCPXlTivYE/s1600/_MG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXhPoXASRaQ/Tsqyu-MsNdI/AAAAAAAAAc4/JjCPXlTivYE/s320/_MG_0463.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 3: To harden the wheels, paper mache each wheel with strips of paper dipped in watered-down glue. Let each wheel dry completely before proceeding to step 4.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_yUj0k9XrI/TsqyvXPoTJI/AAAAAAAAAdA/GToPdwbZVUo/s1600/_MG_0514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_yUj0k9XrI/TsqyvXPoTJI/AAAAAAAAAdA/GToPdwbZVUo/s320/_MG_0514.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 4: Paint each wheel with gold paint (or color of your choice).</div>
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Step 5: Cut your wooden skewers so that the wheels will rest against the pumpkin after you attache the wheels. (This will be about the width of the pumpkin). Paint two skewers or dowels with gold paint. With a hot glue gun, glue the wheels to each end of the skewer.</div>
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*An alternative way to make the wheels is to buy clay that you can bake, and simply mold the wheels and paint them after they harden. I didn't feel like spending the extra couple dollars to buying that kind of clay--hence the wire and paper mache steps. </div>
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Materials for carriage:<br />
- white pumpkin (or you can use an artificial carvable pumpkin like<a href="http://www.funkins.com/"> Funkins</a>)<br />
- carving tools (or for me, just a knife)<br />
- gold puffy paint<br />
- gold ribbon<br />
- pins<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKE9rt4VsvM/TsqyxBlzROI/AAAAAAAAAdo/pFxrHnc9abU/s1600/IMG_0547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKE9rt4VsvM/TsqyxBlzROI/AAAAAAAAAdo/pFxrHnc9abU/s320/IMG_0547.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Scoop out your pumpkin and carve out the windows for the carriage on both sides of the pumpkin. (This is actually the first pumpkin I've ever carved, so I don't have any good tips, and I'm pretty sure my carving is pretty sloppy!) Use gold puffy paint to outline the windows.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M2vf_7XY10M/TsqyxQ847cI/AAAAAAAAAdw/gQjf9g_A2rE/s1600/IMG_0548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M2vf_7XY10M/TsqyxQ847cI/AAAAAAAAAdw/gQjf9g_A2rE/s320/IMG_0548.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Decorate the pumpkin with gold ribbon by pinning the ends of the ribbon on the inside rim of the hole at the top of the pumpkin and at the bottom of the pumpkin. Use gold puffy paint to add any other detailed decoration to the pumpkin. Attach the carriage wheels to either side of the pumpkin. Hot glue will hold the wheels in place, but can easily fall off. You can attach the wheels more securely by "stapling" the dowel to the side of the pumpkin by bending a piece of wire into the pumpkin on both sides of the dowel.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GO0hhDT_oiM/TsqywdyFdII/AAAAAAAAAdY/-OuUQ_G4e5Y/s1600/_MG_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GO0hhDT_oiM/TsqywdyFdII/AAAAAAAAAdY/-OuUQ_G4e5Y/s320/_MG_0574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Light a candle inside the pumpkin and place in a ring of ivy for a cool centerpiece!</div>
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Have fun!</div>
<br />~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-15881804820668434342011-11-10T10:22:00.001-08:002011-11-10T10:44:03.250-08:00DIY Apple Candles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fqCMo1q3XPc/TrwWckqgmTI/AAAAAAAAAbM/7NaiYPfl7yQ/s1600/_MG_0416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fqCMo1q3XPc/TrwWckqgmTI/AAAAAAAAAbM/7NaiYPfl7yQ/s320/_MG_0416.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, I am still apple-crazy! There are so many ways to incorporate apples into a wedding theme that I just can't stop =) Here's how to make easy apple candles for some romantic decor:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjMfG0JpS5w/TrwWiQ1tPaI/AAAAAAAAAbU/fdrQNi3PJu4/s1600/_MG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjMfG0JpS5w/TrwWiQ1tPaI/AAAAAAAAAbU/fdrQNi3PJu4/s320/_MG_0386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Materials: Melon baller, paring knife, tealights, apples, pen</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmIn0mLgceo/TrwWiqXzteI/AAAAAAAAAbc/4QAhSWsDhZ4/s1600/_MG_0390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmIn0mLgceo/TrwWiqXzteI/AAAAAAAAAbc/4QAhSWsDhZ4/s320/_MG_0390.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 1: Trace tealight on the center of the apple.</div>
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Step 2: Use a knife to cut along the marked circle.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FtTsauJHnrU/TrwWjXiGvXI/AAAAAAAAAbs/7cALFNhcZog/s1600/_MG_0396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FtTsauJHnrU/TrwWjXiGvXI/AAAAAAAAAbs/7cALFNhcZog/s320/_MG_0396.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 3: Cut out the top of the apple.</div>
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Step 4: Use a melon baller to make the hole deep enough for a tealight to fit.</div>
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*here's a scooped out apple</div>
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Step 5: Place tealight in the scooped out part of the apple.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWJGNPL59Ms/TrwWlW1a9II/AAAAAAAAAcM/vwy_sCKBZBg/s1600/_MG_0403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWJGNPL59Ms/TrwWlW1a9II/AAAAAAAAAcM/vwy_sCKBZBg/s320/_MG_0403.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And that's it! Make sure you scoop out enough of the apple to completely conceal the tealight~this makes it really look like the apple is the whole candle.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHk3J7U7cto/TrwWl7hilgI/AAAAAAAAAcc/OtNujqnEcKg/s1600/IMG_0405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHk3J7U7cto/TrwWl7hilgI/AAAAAAAAAcc/OtNujqnEcKg/s320/IMG_0405.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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For an easy table centerpiece, arrange apple candles around a large vase filled with apples and flowers.</div>
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Have fun!</div>
<br />~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-51961300182812307972011-10-31T17:08:00.000-07:002011-10-31T17:08:18.411-07:00Apple Crisp in a Jar Favors and Place Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After making the apple centerpieces, I thought of many more projects to do for an apple wedding!</div>
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<u>DIY Apple place cards:</u> Pin name cards to apples to make simple place cards. (pretty self-explanatory...=P)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j1qrsBkBnYo/Tq8xS2GBE3I/AAAAAAAAAak/d1rDBASVbS8/s1600/_MG_0358+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j1qrsBkBnYo/Tq8xS2GBE3I/AAAAAAAAAak/d1rDBASVbS8/s320/_MG_0358+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<u>DIY Apple Crisp in a Jar Favors:</u><br />
Pair the ingredients for apple crisp with an apple place card for a sweet favor your guests can take home and bake for themselves.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qP3DcLl2adM/Tq80iBqZ8BI/AAAAAAAAAbE/lc4VrxZjJUg/s1600/_MG_0361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qP3DcLl2adM/Tq80iBqZ8BI/AAAAAAAAAbE/lc4VrxZjJUg/s320/_MG_0361.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Materials: cloth square, baby food jar--thoroughly washed and filled with ingredients for apple crisp (see recipe below), ribbon/raffia, hot glue</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHAe77DI0fI/Tq8xTR7ynEI/AAAAAAAAAas/Wo93-00fMqs/s1600/_MG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHAe77DI0fI/Tq8xTR7ynEI/AAAAAAAAAas/Wo93-00fMqs/s320/_MG_0363.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 1: Glue cloth square onto baby food jar to hold in place.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFqyHAZeJGc/Tq8xTqzYuNI/AAAAAAAAAa0/SGzPuQLPh5A/s1600/_MG_0367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFqyHAZeJGc/Tq8xTqzYuNI/AAAAAAAAAa0/SGzPuQLPh5A/s320/_MG_0367.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Optional: trim the corners of the cloth to make a circle (or leave the corners, depending on how much cloth you want to drape over the side of the jar). Place lid back on the jar.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9dP1MNsXezY/Tq8xUOcY25I/AAAAAAAAAa8/RwQ9HfWVhRQ/s1600/_MG_0380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9dP1MNsXezY/Tq8xUOcY25I/AAAAAAAAAa8/RwQ9HfWVhRQ/s320/_MG_0380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 2: Secure the cloth on the lid by tying a length of ribbon or raffia around the bottom of lid. Print out the recipe instructions on a piece of paper, roll it, and tie to the jar with the raffia.</div>
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<u>Apple Crisp:</u> Place the ingredients into each baby food jar:</div>
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- 2 tbsp. all purpose flour</div>
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- 2 tbsp. brown sugar</div>
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- 2 tbsp. oats</div>
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- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
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* brown sugar is a good layer to use in the middle because it packs together and keeps the other ingredients from shifting.</div>
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Recipe instructions:</div>
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1. Mix contents of jar with 1 tbsp. of butter until crumbly.</div>
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2. Sprinkle mixture over 1-2 peeled and sliced apples in a baking dish.</div>
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3. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-35 minutes.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<br /></div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-4256473485424078172011-10-17T14:14:00.001-07:002011-10-17T14:14:59.162-07:00Apple Bushel Centerpieces<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yt3wVf0jMa8/TpyYk18aZdI/AAAAAAAAAYU/lFKsi5cBqwk/s1600/_MG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yt3wVf0jMa8/TpyYk18aZdI/AAAAAAAAAYU/lFKsi5cBqwk/s200/_MG_0332.JPG" width="158" /></a></div>
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Autumn always reminds me of going apple picking back when we were in college. I can almost smell the fresh apple donuts, too! The harvest season is the perfect time to incorporate apples in your wedding theme--and if you can find apples at 49 cents a pound (thank you Milk Pail Market!), you can breath easy over your wedding budget.<br />
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Make fun centerpieces for your apple-themed wedding by using a bushel basket, cloth napkin, and apples. You can also label your tables by placing a numbered stake in the basket.
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<b><u>Materials:</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-vlEF8EPRE/TpyX7JYW38I/AAAAAAAAAXs/I48u--1aVw0/s1600/_MG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-vlEF8EPRE/TpyX7JYW38I/AAAAAAAAAXs/I48u--1aVw0/s1600/_MG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-vlEF8EPRE/TpyX7JYW38I/AAAAAAAAAXs/I48u--1aVw0/s320/_MG_0305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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- bushel basket</div>
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- square cloth napkin (or hemmed fabric of your choice)</div>
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- apples</div>
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- stake</div>
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- cardstock for table numbers</div>
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- basket filler (optional)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SND9J57IgpM/TpyYjW8NZDI/AAAAAAAAAX0/s7rxdeVj8yY/s1600/_MG_0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SND9J57IgpM/TpyYjW8NZDI/AAAAAAAAAX0/s7rxdeVj8yY/s320/_MG_0313.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 1: Line basket with napkin. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qBCBhuI1LgA/TpyYjzFOdiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/RgW1rrkg-0U/s1600/_MG_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qBCBhuI1LgA/TpyYjzFOdiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/RgW1rrkg-0U/s320/_MG_0320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 2: (Optional) Fill basket with basket filler (shredded paper, old newspaper, etc.)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hAHyl3k5fQ/TpyYkX3oK0I/AAAAAAAAAYE/BmBNuqORDVM/s1600/_MG_0327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hAHyl3k5fQ/TpyYkX3oK0I/AAAAAAAAAYE/BmBNuqORDVM/s320/_MG_0327.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 3: Attach numbered cardstock to wooden stake. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SH0YSEW4loA/TpyZHUlcxPI/AAAAAAAAAYc/B0EuPevnl0I/s1600/_MG_0328-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SH0YSEW4loA/TpyZHUlcxPI/AAAAAAAAAYc/B0EuPevnl0I/s320/_MG_0328-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 4: Place stake in the center of the basket.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yt3wVf0jMa8/TpyYk18aZdI/AAAAAAAAAYU/lFKsi5cBqwk/s1600/_MG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yt3wVf0jMa8/TpyYk18aZdI/AAAAAAAAAYU/lFKsi5cBqwk/s320/_MG_0332.JPG" width="253" /></a></div>
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Step 5: Arrange apples in the basket around the stake.</div>
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To imitate the checkered pattern on the cloth, I made a checkered border in Microsoft Word and printed it onto cardstock. These table numbers were 5 inches wide and 4 inches long.</div>
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Have fun!</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-128471099477609882011-10-04T11:46:00.000-07:002011-10-04T11:46:52.402-07:00Dyed Tissue Paper Pom-Poms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5Yyqm5OOoI/TotN4MXwKLI/AAAAAAAAAWU/h63N62rENkE/s1600/_MG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5Yyqm5OOoI/TotN4MXwKLI/AAAAAAAAAWU/h63N62rENkE/s320/_MG_0216.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Tissue paper pom-poms have become a popular wedding decoration--they are cheap, easy to make, and look so dramatic hanging from the ceiling. After seeing my friend use them at her wedding and gushing over how cool they looked, I started thinking about how to take these pom-poms to another level. By dying your own tissue paper, you can create a dramatic pom-pom with various splashes of color.<br />
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<b>Dying the tissue paper:</b><br />
<u>Materials:</u><br />
- food coloring<br />
- some kind of containers (cups/shallow bowls/plates)<br />
- non-glossy white tissue paper<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJvYo-naTQY/TotOflhjaKI/AAAAAAAAAWY/6wx4HBa2nKc/s1600/_MG_0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJvYo-naTQY/TotOflhjaKI/AAAAAAAAAWY/6wx4HBa2nKc/s320/_MG_0113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Step 1: Fold sheets of tissue paper in half until you have a 1-2 inch wide strip. Fold each strip in half lengthwise so that the ends you dye will be even on both sides.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16nn1KQvCbs/TotOf6a9hLI/AAAAAAAAAWc/Bi7f4WcsJnU/s1600/_MG_0115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16nn1KQvCbs/TotOf6a9hLI/AAAAAAAAAWc/Bi7f4WcsJnU/s320/_MG_0115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Step 2: Mix food coloring and water in each container to make your dye. The less water you use, the stronger the color will be. Pictured above, I have a cup of just yellow food coloring, red food coloring, and a mixture of red and yellow to create orange. Dip each part of the folded tissue paper into your desired color, carefully squeezing out any excess water.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umDh3YXSMUw/TotOgwGHVtI/AAAAAAAAAWk/tUZpDYE4TVI/s1600/_MG_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umDh3YXSMUw/TotOgwGHVtI/AAAAAAAAAWk/tUZpDYE4TVI/s320/_MG_0117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Step 3: Lay out strips of tissue paper on newspaper to dry. Wet tissue paper is very fragile, so wait until it is almost dry before you unfold it.<br />
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There are many ways you can dye your tissue paper--keep in mind that colors in the middle are much harder to see once you put the pom-pom together. I used yellow in the middle of the tissue paper to recreate the look of a flower. Here are a few varieties so you can see the difference between the dyed tissue paper and the resulting pom-pom:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hLayB0CBh8/TotQesACYwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/XSAPx5Ea9t4/s1600/gradual.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hLayB0CBh8/TotQesACYwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/XSAPx5Ea9t4/s400/gradual.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This pom-pom was made from a tissue paper that had a gradual change from yellow to pink. Note how light the color is after the tissue paper dries--so keep that in mind when you are mixing your dyes.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5aBdYceKOA/TotQg8gRCSI/AAAAAAAAAXU/UmLHl3MHSwo/s1600/pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5aBdYceKOA/TotQg8gRCSI/AAAAAAAAAXU/UmLHl3MHSwo/s400/pink.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This pom-pom has a less subtle change from yellow to pink--note how the pink still dominates the look of the pom-pom as the yellow color is buried in the middle of the pom-pom.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6H-3hUNj9Do/TotQhky-qvI/AAAAAAAAAXY/kryk9GJPEag/s1600/sharp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6H-3hUNj9Do/TotQhky-qvI/AAAAAAAAAXY/kryk9GJPEag/s400/sharp.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can also cut each end of the folded tissue paper before you dye it--for this pom-pom, I dyed the each strip yellow and then only dipped the edges in red dye. It was easier to use a plate to hold the dye for dying the edges of each strip.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b>Making the pom-poms:</b><br />
<u>Materials:</u><br />
- dyed tissue paper<br />
- wire<br />
- scissors<br />
- ribbon<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FsLfxCrWE8/TotSM9fE6sI/AAAAAAAAAXc/Y23_SJGuTGk/s1600/IMG_0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FsLfxCrWE8/TotSM9fE6sI/AAAAAAAAAXc/Y23_SJGuTGk/s320/IMG_0157.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Step 1: Make a stack of tissue paper--12-16 sheets of tissue paper make suitable puffy pom-poms.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aplgDbYZx5I/TotSNMKDxZI/AAAAAAAAAXg/c2z15sXlzSE/s1600/IMG_0158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aplgDbYZx5I/TotSNMKDxZI/AAAAAAAAAXg/c2z15sXlzSE/s320/IMG_0158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Step 2: Like an accordian, fold the stack back and forth until you have a fan that is between 1-2 inches wide. Twist a length of wire around the middle of the folded fan to hold everything in place. If you didn't pre-cut the ends of the tissue paper, use scissors to trim the ends into your desired shape.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4K09pr6jbH8/TotSNvt5KKI/AAAAAAAAAXk/3AUg-KZUUQg/s1600/IMG_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4K09pr6jbH8/TotSNvt5KKI/AAAAAAAAAXk/3AUg-KZUUQg/s320/IMG_0159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Step 3: Separate each layer of tissue paper by pulling it up towards the center. Halfway through the layer, flip the pom-pom over and do the same to the other side.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lE5uyysO1Z0/TotOidY9C6I/AAAAAAAAAWw/v9smBt5eA2k/s1600/_MG_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lE5uyysO1Z0/TotOidY9C6I/AAAAAAAAAWw/v9smBt5eA2k/s320/_MG_0184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Step 4: Make a loop with the twisted wire and thread a ribbon through it so you can hang the pom-pom.<br />
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Have fun!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-84457859164117234312011-10-03T21:04:00.000-07:002011-10-03T21:05:20.786-07:00Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yYPETcxk03Y/ToqCzWADDZI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/sKSRTIGts6g/s1600/_MG_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yYPETcxk03Y/ToqCzWADDZI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/sKSRTIGts6g/s320/_MG_0107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This simple salad from Gourmet magazine has become a regular favorite at our house after I made a Mediterranean-themed dinner for my in-laws. The fresh flavors make this salad a tasty side dish to an easy grilled chicken dinner. The salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days and is ready-to-eat at any time! =) Here's the recipe:<br />
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<b><u>Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad</u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 16px;"><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipesmenus/gourmet/recipes" style="color: #444444; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">Gourmet</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 16px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 16px;"> | September 1995</span></span><br />
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INGREDIENTS:<br />
<ul><li>1 cup <i>lentilles du Puy</i>* (French green lentils) or brown lentils</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/4 cups water</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup couscous</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoons salt</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 large garlic clove, minced and mashed to a paste with 1/4 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 bunch arugula, stems discarded and leaves washed well, spun dry, and chopped</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups vine-ripened cherry tomatoes, halved</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 pound feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)</span></li>
</ul><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">PREPARATION:</span></div><div class="instruction" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></div><ol><li>In a small saucepan simmer lentils in water to cover by 2 inches until tender but not falling apart, 15 to 20 minutes, and drain well. Transfer hot lentils to a bowl and stir in 1 tablespoon vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Cool lentils completely, stirring occasionally.</li>
<li>In a saucepan bring water to a boil and add couscous and salt. Remove pan from heat and let couscous stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon oil and cool completely, stirring occasionally.</li>
<li>In a small bowl whisk together garlic paste, remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, remaining 3 tablespoons oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir lentils and dressing into couscous. Chill salad, covered, at least 3 hours and up to 24.</li>
<li>Just before serving, stir in remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper.</li>
</ol><div>Some things I've changed after making this several times:</div><div><ul><li>I really like using pearled couscous in this salad because its shape is more similar to the shape of the lentils.</li>
<li>Don't skimp on the garlic--I usually use up to three cloves.</li>
<li>If you can't find arugula, any spring mix blend also works well.</li>
<li>A great addition to the salad is chopped green onions (use 3-4)</li>
</ul><div>Enjoy!</div></div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-55085671422217037662011-09-29T14:03:00.000-07:002011-09-29T14:03:15.939-07:00We're Back!To my one dear reader, I apologize for my absence the past month. We have been so busy visiting family and traveling that I haven't had the time to update regularly. Our cruise to Mexico was worth it, though! Check out some of my favorite pics from Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjXrpHiH_1w/ToTbjoNI8jI/AAAAAAAAAV0/cvbmypU5qRI/s1600/cruise+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjXrpHiH_1w/ToTbjoNI8jI/AAAAAAAAAV0/cvbmypU5qRI/s320/cruise+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5g8XW8eW9dw/ToTbpVHa5VI/AAAAAAAAAV4/Ah4glkWUAnM/s1600/cruise+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5g8XW8eW9dw/ToTbpVHa5VI/AAAAAAAAAV4/Ah4glkWUAnM/s320/cruise+27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7s3Vgwe7kk/ToTbvNvZQ9I/AAAAAAAAAV8/ciLnxD4RCAY/s1600/cruise+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7s3Vgwe7kk/ToTbvNvZQ9I/AAAAAAAAAV8/ciLnxD4RCAY/s320/cruise+36.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mulSTWTW0Us/ToTb6QZ21xI/AAAAAAAAAWA/ZVcUAnIX9w4/s1600/cruise+85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mulSTWTW0Us/ToTb6QZ21xI/AAAAAAAAAWA/ZVcUAnIX9w4/s320/cruise+85.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvQHisOJCxQ/ToTcDUbgE0I/AAAAAAAAAWE/0D3Cbl3pwR4/s1600/cruise+134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvQHisOJCxQ/ToTcDUbgE0I/AAAAAAAAAWE/0D3Cbl3pwR4/s320/cruise+134.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFUCQdPrwbE/ToTcJqY1oaI/AAAAAAAAAWI/7xsT-M6QhTw/s1600/cruise+137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFUCQdPrwbE/ToTcJqY1oaI/AAAAAAAAAWI/7xsT-M6QhTw/s320/cruise+137.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K0uXXrvQj7E/ToTcPBWfZgI/AAAAAAAAAWM/B3RakvdgudQ/s1600/cruise+142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K0uXXrvQj7E/ToTcPBWfZgI/AAAAAAAAAWM/B3RakvdgudQ/s320/cruise+142.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It started raining in Puerto Vallarta while we were out on the boat around Los Arcos. I loved how the rain and the clouds made the landscape look so dramatic and romantic. =)<br />
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Be back soon with more DIYs!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-59467305815435516592011-09-10T09:07:00.000-07:002011-09-10T09:08:47.852-07:00Wedding Cupcake Craze Part 3 of 3: DIY Cupcake StandFinally, the last installment of the Wedding Cupcake Craze is here! After making delicious cupcakes, elegant wrappers, and cute toppers, showcase your cupcakes on a homemade cupcake stand!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNIkeOUIeu0/TmuJ4kuYo0I/AAAAAAAAAVg/jhL2D8583GA/s1600/_MG_9883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNIkeOUIeu0/TmuJ4kuYo0I/AAAAAAAAAVg/jhL2D8583GA/s320/_MG_9883.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
As I mentioned before, I was inspired by a plastic plate that I saw at Target a few weeks ago--so that's why the red and black poppy theme is a little overdone here. =) There are a lot of ways you can make cupcakes stands--they range from disposable cardboard stands to permanent stands with interchangeable layers. For this incredibly simple semi-permanent display, all you need is some hot glue, shot glasses, and plastic plates.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tT2mXWqDclc/TmuJ9YtAOSI/AAAAAAAAAVk/oc__upISCGI/s1600/_MG_9836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tT2mXWqDclc/TmuJ9YtAOSI/AAAAAAAAAVk/oc__upISCGI/s320/_MG_9836.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Materials: Two plastic plates--one slightly smaller than the other, two shot glasses (optional, filled with beads), and hot glue gun</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eU6pNOr8QJ0/TmuJ-pVgchI/AAAAAAAAAVs/tczEjNKttEY/s1600/_MG_9878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eU6pNOr8QJ0/TmuJ-pVgchI/AAAAAAAAAVs/tczEjNKttEY/s320/_MG_9878.JPG" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Steps: Using hot glue, glue bottom of one shot glass to the center of larger plate. Glue the top of the shot glass to the bottom of the smaller plate. Optional: To create the effect of an vase running through the stand, glue another shot glass to the center of the smaller plate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that's it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have fun!</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-59781739245992980982011-08-25T09:29:00.000-07:002011-08-25T09:29:34.485-07:00Welcome to 1995<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vi2vkw1yx4c/TlZ3SNehYGI/AAAAAAAAAVc/b4jbsfS3pkc/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vi2vkw1yx4c/TlZ3SNehYGI/AAAAAAAAAVc/b4jbsfS3pkc/s320/IMG_0569.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I was helping my mom clean out a room in the house earlier today when I found a stack of continuous printer paper in a box. WHOA FLASHBACK! Remember all the fun things we would do with the perforated edges? (or was it just me because I was lame like that?)<br />
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The discovery begs the question--why in the world have we saved this stack of paper for over ten years? We don't even have a printer to use it anymore. Actually, as I type that, I have a premonition that the dead carcass of our old printer is probably hidden somewhere in the house, too.<br />
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So this is where my inability to throw anything away comes from....~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-71518325853161029032011-08-23T10:08:00.000-07:002011-08-23T10:08:40.552-07:00Wedding Cupcake Craze Part 2 of 3: Cupcake ToppersIn addition to making fun cupcake wrappers, you can top your cupcakes with anything that stays glued to a toothpick. Here, I've made flowered cupcake wrappers because I was running with my red poppy theme, but the basic topper is so simple you can make different shapes and signs to convey various themes and messages.<br />
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<b><u>Cupcake Project #2: Red Poppy Toppers</u></b><br />
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<b>Materials:</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS_D8BnBuQU/TlPY081-BuI/AAAAAAAAAVI/s3KNmmO6F7E/s1600/_MG_9843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS_D8BnBuQU/TlPY081-BuI/AAAAAAAAAVI/s3KNmmO6F7E/s320/_MG_9843.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>red and black cardstock</li>
<li>toothpicks</li>
<li>glue (Elmer's is just fine)</li>
<li>paper punches (1 large and 1 small flower)</li>
</ul><div><b>Steps:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2g3V4c70gU/TlPZrAB-x4I/AAAAAAAAAVM/Yc5YkxJLYpU/s1600/_MG_9844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2g3V4c70gU/TlPZrAB-x4I/AAAAAAAAAVM/Yc5YkxJLYpU/s320/_MG_9844.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div>1. Punch flowers out of cardstock. You will need two large red flower and one small black flower for each toothpick.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_XD3WrlC1OA/TlPa6lBxEBI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/TlgDieQM3QA/s1600/_MG_9849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_XD3WrlC1OA/TlPa6lBxEBI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/TlgDieQM3QA/s320/_MG_9849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>2. Glue small black flower onto the front of a large black flower. (Maybe use less glue than I did...? =)</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VQMsxjhFcPg/TlPb_IxDDUI/AAAAAAAAAVU/ISUkxkGS7fc/s1600/_MG_9850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VQMsxjhFcPg/TlPb_IxDDUI/AAAAAAAAAVU/ISUkxkGS7fc/s320/_MG_9850.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><b>3. </b>With a large dollop of glue, place a toothpick in between the two flowers and press lightly.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-emjs77VJw98/TlPdNUeFKOI/AAAAAAAAAVY/HObIVkXcrK4/s1600/_MG_9875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-emjs77VJw98/TlPdNUeFKOI/AAAAAAAAAVY/HObIVkXcrK4/s320/_MG_9875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>4. Once the glue dries, insert toothpick into the top of your cupcake and you're done!</div><div><br />
</div><div>TIPS:</div><div>~ Be patient with the glue--let the topper lie flat until completely dry, or you risk parts of the topper shifting due to the power of gravity and wet glue</div><div>~ Be sanitary! Since these will be inserted into edible goods, make sure your toothpicks are only handled on clean surfaces. Consider using gloves and laying the toothpicks on separate parchment paper to dry.</div><div><br />
</div><div>So simple and fun, I can't wait to make different kinds of cupcake toppers! Part 3 will feature an easy DIY cupcake stand with the plate that was the source of my inspiration. =)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Have fun! =)</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-30306125677869927882011-08-16T10:20:00.000-07:002011-08-16T10:20:29.041-07:00Wedding Cupcake Craze Part 1 of 3: DIY Cupcake Wrappers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NxJtXJnqJcQ/Tkqb8LunhII/AAAAAAAAAUE/ZYUFJB8l6Dg/s1600/_MG_9835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NxJtXJnqJcQ/Tkqb8LunhII/AAAAAAAAAUE/ZYUFJB8l6Dg/s200/_MG_9835.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For some reason, this red poppy plastic plate from Target got my creative juices flowing. I love the dramatic combination of red, black, and white, and so I've used those colors to make these cupcake-related projects (and probably went a little overboard with the theme, but you get the idea!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b>Cupcake Project #1: Cupcake Wrappers</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YAlHjMUskOY/TkqfOX6JSJI/AAAAAAAAAUk/_esJiYcthgw/s1600/_MG_9877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YAlHjMUskOY/TkqfOX6JSJI/AAAAAAAAAUk/_esJiYcthgw/s320/_MG_9877.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The continued popularity of cupcakes remains strong--you see specialty cupcakes stores everywhere nowadays! They pop up in weddings in lieu of tiered wedding cakes or as wedding favors to take home. Making your own cupcake wrappers is a simple and fun way to incorporate your wedding theme into your cupcakes and to make them look even fancier!<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>Materials:</u></b></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Cupcake wrapper template (<a href="http://media.offbeatbride.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/6/files/2010/06/cupcake_wrap_template.pdf">Template from Offbeat Bride</a>)</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Decorative paper/Paper doily</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Scissors/Decorative edge scissors</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Glue</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Optional: paper punches<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Paper Doily Cupcake Wrapper:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0cx7Pkd-W88/TkqgbDH8aQI/AAAAAAAAAUo/nlc81nECeps/s1600/_MG_9831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0cx7Pkd-W88/TkqgbDH8aQI/AAAAAAAAAUo/nlc81nECeps/s320/_MG_9831.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-waVaJMGG33Q/Tkqi58-tnHI/AAAAAAAAAUw/mARfZNc0zbQ/s1600/_MG_9834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-waVaJMGG33Q/Tkqi58-tnHI/AAAAAAAAAUw/mARfZNc0zbQ/s320/_MG_9834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZ5tZtSzVJw/TkqkKy2Zw9I/AAAAAAAAAU0/LLng-MSypCM/s1600/_MG_9840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZ5tZtSzVJw/TkqkKy2Zw9I/AAAAAAAAAU0/LLng-MSypCM/s320/_MG_9840.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Use the cupcake template to trace along the edge of a paper doily, cut it out, and glue edges together.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><b>Decorate Edge Cupcake Wrapper:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSdyNAGzLE4/TkqlWTPRAgI/AAAAAAAAAU4/mepxDYktJ1o/s1600/_MG_9856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSdyNAGzLE4/TkqlWTPRAgI/AAAAAAAAAU4/mepxDYktJ1o/s320/_MG_9856.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Paper Punch Cupcake Wrappers:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ug4lm5j-oc/TkqlzZJtjbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/IHH0HUdaQVY/s1600/_MG_9853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ug4lm5j-oc/TkqlzZJtjbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/IHH0HUdaQVY/s320/_MG_9853.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GOzy2BByM3I/Tkql7jQboiI/AAAAAAAAAVA/nKLOEIa9Utk/s1600/_MG_9854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GOzy2BByM3I/Tkql7jQboiI/AAAAAAAAAVA/nKLOEIa9Utk/s320/_MG_9854.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">* These are Martha Stewart paper punches that you can get at any general crafts store like Michael's or Joann Fabrics.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTtPjFLagkQ/TkqmR5TcsQI/AAAAAAAAAVE/_f5FoAHOB3g/s1600/_MG_9861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTtPjFLagkQ/TkqmR5TcsQI/AAAAAAAAAVE/_f5FoAHOB3g/s320/_MG_9861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">And that's all there is to it! (Please excuse my terrible job at icing my cupcakes!) Part 2 will feature simple cupcake toppers.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have fun!</div></div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-48834954352957261202011-08-05T13:02:00.000-07:002011-08-05T13:02:13.639-07:00DIY White Vases from Recycled Bottles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDX3MRj_3_o/TjxIvuKY-gI/AAAAAAAAAT8/rdNQH64Ac8A/s1600/_MG_9804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDX3MRj_3_o/TjxIvuKY-gI/AAAAAAAAAT8/rdNQH64Ac8A/s320/_MG_9804.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I have wanted to make these vases for awhile, but couldn't figure out exactly how I wanted to do them--Al has patiently put up with my collection of glass bottles as I experimented with creating these textured white vases. Using just spray paint and puffy paint, you can turn your old glass bottles into fun vases.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWD4jlnRW54/TjxIsjv9T3I/AAAAAAAAATU/FJR375xBRk0/s1600/_MG_9767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWD4jlnRW54/TjxIsjv9T3I/AAAAAAAAATU/FJR375xBRk0/s320/_MG_9767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Materials: glass bottles, spray paint, puffy paint, and a paint brush</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tip: Soak the glass bottles in warm water to help remove the labels. If you are planning on making a completely textured vase, you don't need to be as meticulous in removing the adhesive since it will all be covered.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Original Vase-- This is the idea I first saw, from which the other vase ideas came about.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bH2jK1pXgro/TjxIu_Mm6TI/AAAAAAAAATs/v3mt7vlutRk/s1600/IMG_9780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bH2jK1pXgro/TjxIu_Mm6TI/AAAAAAAAATs/v3mt7vlutRk/s320/IMG_9780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1. Spray paint the entire bottle with your desired color. It is better to spray on layers rather than a thick coat to cover the glass. If you spray the paint too thickly, the paint will run and you won't have a smooth surface. Give each layer about 4 hours to dry before spraying on the next layer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCcrtsTd550/TjxIvQbSXpI/AAAAAAAAAT0/P7ia33yc-ks/s1600/_MG_9790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCcrtsTd550/TjxIvQbSXpI/AAAAAAAAAT0/P7ia33yc-ks/s320/_MG_9790.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2. Use puffy paint to paint on a dotted pattern. Allow to dry, and you're done!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTKadh_IBuc/TjxIvuIuzvI/AAAAAAAAAT4/FqxSQ9cUVrI/s1600/_MG_9792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTKadh_IBuc/TjxIvuIuzvI/AAAAAAAAAT4/FqxSQ9cUVrI/s320/_MG_9792.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vase Version 2:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> I wanted to create a texture over the whole vase, so I reversed the steps by applying puffy paint first, and then spray-painting the vase. The pictures are pretty self explanatory: I used a brush to spread globs of puffy paint all over the glass bottle. In the other two vases, I experimented with creating other effects such as rings around the vase and a scalloped pattern.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4BXjT1IuwGQ/TjxItv1FsTI/AAAAAAAAATg/9F17_sG0uFg/s1600/IMG_9770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4BXjT1IuwGQ/TjxItv1FsTI/AAAAAAAAATg/9F17_sG0uFg/s320/IMG_9770.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKYSvyCU3_M/TjxIt1CLHAI/AAAAAAAAATk/GW8G5RUN_i8/s1600/IMG_9773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKYSvyCU3_M/TjxIt1CLHAI/AAAAAAAAATk/GW8G5RUN_i8/s320/IMG_9773.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6RsUVwJWbdo/TjxIs5DnmsI/AAAAAAAAATY/OxUKRq0D2vg/s1600/_MG_9776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6RsUVwJWbdo/TjxIs5DnmsI/AAAAAAAAATY/OxUKRq0D2vg/s320/_MG_9776.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PquuSJkQNP0/TjxItF_nDBI/AAAAAAAAATc/lvcUaD_5k0w/s1600/_MG_9777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PquuSJkQNP0/TjxItF_nDBI/AAAAAAAAATc/lvcUaD_5k0w/s320/_MG_9777.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPT0Lx9pSkA/TjxIuRGE_0I/AAAAAAAAATo/XEiTCH9ioYA/s1600/IMG_9779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPT0Lx9pSkA/TjxIuRGE_0I/AAAAAAAAATo/XEiTCH9ioYA/s320/IMG_9779.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEQ8MDF76QI/TjxIvOhoJYI/AAAAAAAAATw/orzXkSxlzhc/s1600/_MG_9786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEQ8MDF76QI/TjxIvOhoJYI/AAAAAAAAATw/orzXkSxlzhc/s320/_MG_9786.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b><u>Simple wedding centerpieces: </u></b><br />
Line up rows of vases with a large bloom and you can have an economic and unique centerpiece for your reception:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ixMMDT2xcBQ/TjxIv0zGSQI/AAAAAAAAAUA/0rCg0X16x5k/s1600/_MG_9819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ixMMDT2xcBQ/TjxIv0zGSQI/AAAAAAAAAUA/0rCg0X16x5k/s320/_MG_9819.JPG" width="223" /></a></div><br />
Have fun!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-12563453445035270932011-08-02T11:22:00.000-07:002011-08-02T11:22:05.586-07:00DIY Plastic Canvas Pencil Boxes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pwtUWOF0LE/Tjg84kHig4I/AAAAAAAAATI/5sotjzMkH68/s1600/IMG_0425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pwtUWOF0LE/Tjg84kHig4I/AAAAAAAAATI/5sotjzMkH68/s320/IMG_0425.JPG" width="197" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh5i80caaGQ/Tjg85qIyZ6I/AAAAAAAAATM/vLOqfM2XVOQ/s1600/IMG_0427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh5i80caaGQ/Tjg85qIyZ6I/AAAAAAAAATM/vLOqfM2XVOQ/s320/IMG_0427.JPG" width="164" /></a></div><br />
I found this really great tutorial on making pencil cases by weaving yarn through a plastic canvas. I love how there are so many different ways to weave the yarn pattern to create a different look. Check out Diane Gilleland's<a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2010/01/craft_pattern_hook_needle_penc.html"> free pattern </a>that is very thorough on how to make these cute cases. (My button is monstrous in comparison to the rest of the case, but I was too lazy to get another one!)<br />
<br />
After making this first case, I was inspired to use my leftover plastic canvas and yarn to make another pencil box with the same pattern idea:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0-Z9r0ulBI/Tjg83Gm55hI/AAAAAAAAATE/dV7Fd3Hzeyw/s1600/_MG_9258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0-Z9r0ulBI/Tjg83Gm55hI/AAAAAAAAATE/dV7Fd3Hzeyw/s320/_MG_9258.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like the above case, the only basic materials needed are yarn, plastic canvas, and a yarn needle. I actually broke my plastic yarn needle as it was slightly bigger than the holes in the canvas, so I actually bent a paper clip into a makeshift yarn needle and found that it worked out really well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0ZUiB92aA/Tjg81pTdf9I/AAAAAAAAATA/WaEUyrK1taI/s1600/_MG_9274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XM0ZUiB92aA/Tjg81pTdf9I/AAAAAAAAATA/WaEUyrK1taI/s320/_MG_9274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After weaving a yarn pattern on each piece, sew them together to make a box. (See Diane Gilleland's <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2010/01/craft_pattern_hook_needle_penc.html">tutorial</a> for details on weaving the yarn)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIRGQMUMOHg/Tjg8zNIG1LI/AAAAAAAAAS4/Yhw6LrC7EGs/s1600/_MG_9760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIRGQMUMOHg/Tjg8zNIG1LI/AAAAAAAAAS4/Yhw6LrC7EGs/s320/_MG_9760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sew buttons on the side and tie yarn loops on the lid of the box to make "button holes."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v0IyalyeuzU/Tjg80XqzptI/AAAAAAAAAS8/EETCtoqlFcQ/s1600/_MG_9758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v0IyalyeuzU/Tjg80XqzptI/AAAAAAAAAS8/EETCtoqlFcQ/s320/_MG_9758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>And that's it! Such a simple craft with endless possibilities =)~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-18173289925469781992011-07-27T12:02:00.000-07:002011-07-27T12:02:15.255-07:00My Depressingly Healthy Lunch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xEEfHxAiGpg/TjBeu707T-I/AAAAAAAAAS0/sltdwPAmmP4/s1600/_MG_9411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xEEfHxAiGpg/TjBeu707T-I/AAAAAAAAAS0/sltdwPAmmP4/s320/_MG_9411.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Bleeechhhh. Rabbit food. Why is getting older so much harder on the body? Well, I guess I only have myself to blame for post-marriage, post-injury weight gain, but I am not appreciating this slower metabolism! I have actually been trying to eat healthier since my exercise ability has been severely limited. I used to cling to my eat-whatever-you-want-just-work-out plan, but unfortunately that just doesn't work right now, so I've had to resort to dieting. Results are slow, but there has already been some evidence that it is working! YAY!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I guess if I was really really hard core, I would also not be eating the bread with my salad (don't worry, I didn't butter it!), but I don't think I'm ready to sacrifice all carbs just yet!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I just had to complain somewhere about eating salads. And maybe brag, too. Once it pays off. =)</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-30908253327581402622011-07-20T13:56:00.000-07:002011-07-20T13:56:08.987-07:00DIY Beaded Candle Holders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PvUMZsgAegI/Tic6kulnPvI/AAAAAAAAASc/jm2DLESkni8/s1600/_MG_9655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PvUMZsgAegI/Tic6kulnPvI/AAAAAAAAASc/jm2DLESkni8/s320/_MG_9655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After last week's post, my head kept swimming with more thoughts of beads and tassels. So to get it all out of my system, I've also added beads to candle holders--one by adding a beaded fringe to a ribbon, the second by stringing beaded tassels onto a ribbon. I love the clunky shiny beads and if I really wanted to make something shiny, I would have invested in some sparkly Swarovski crystal beads (alas, they are a bit more expensive than I was willing to pay just for a project). Candles are a great alternative to flowers for wedding centerpieces--they're inexpensive and add a romantic glow to your reception hall. You can fill a table with candles of various sizes and in different holders, but still achieve a uniform look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How to add a beaded fringe to a ribbon:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IB522BrDl5s/Tic6hv9gouI/AAAAAAAAAR4/wXdsI9Vj48Q/s1600/_MG_9579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IB522BrDl5s/Tic6hv9gouI/AAAAAAAAAR4/wXdsI9Vj48Q/s320/_MG_9579.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Materials: assorted beads, beading thread and string, ribbon, candle holder, hot glue gun (not pictured)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AJKtzg3aC98/Tic6hy4fUaI/AAAAAAAAAR8/WA08So82RlE/s1600/_MG_9583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AJKtzg3aC98/Tic6hy4fUaI/AAAAAAAAAR8/WA08So82RlE/s320/_MG_9583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 1: Thread needle with string and tie a knot at the end. Make the first stitch at one end of the ribbon from back to front so that the knot is on the wrong side.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qv9vRyuNinI/Tic6iBT5mjI/AAAAAAAAASA/lYp_AFjFPaU/s1600/_MG_9589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qv9vRyuNinI/Tic6iBT5mjI/AAAAAAAAASA/lYp_AFjFPaU/s320/_MG_9589.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 2: Thread through your desired bead pattern.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa-kVa-IFxA/Tic6imS6wrI/AAAAAAAAASE/GxwHGHFjwxM/s1600/_MG_9591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa-kVa-IFxA/Tic6imS6wrI/AAAAAAAAASE/GxwHGHFjwxM/s320/_MG_9591.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 3: Skipping the last bead, thread your needle back up the beads.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2OoHxR3xbp8/Tic6i8JNr5I/AAAAAAAAASI/4B_dhj8_jiA/s1600/_MG_9594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2OoHxR3xbp8/Tic6i8JNr5I/AAAAAAAAASI/4B_dhj8_jiA/s320/_MG_9594.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 4: Pull thread all the way through, taking care not to pull too tightly or the beads will bunch up. Secure the strand by sewing a stitch into the ribbon.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztm_vgrtqtc/Tic6jejv-II/AAAAAAAAASM/rrLKM5gMlqk/s1600/_MG_9597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztm_vgrtqtc/Tic6jejv-II/AAAAAAAAASM/rrLKM5gMlqk/s320/_MG_9597.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 5: Bring needle back up where you want to place the next strand of beads. Repeat steps 2-4.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96l8_vGE_ho/Tic6jsRTXbI/AAAAAAAAASQ/K_z26VQa0tc/s1600/_MG_9600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96l8_vGE_ho/Tic6jsRTXbI/AAAAAAAAASQ/K_z26VQa0tc/s320/_MG_9600.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 6: Continue until you've covered the whole length of the ribbon. You can play around with the lengths of the strands to create your desired effect.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3roaiKUrljg/Tic6j_ju72I/AAAAAAAAASU/5bCncLBxG3M/s1600/_MG_9602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3roaiKUrljg/Tic6j_ju72I/AAAAAAAAASU/5bCncLBxG3M/s320/_MG_9602.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 7: Using a hot glue gun, glue the ribbon in place around the edge of the candle holder. If you want to hide your stitches, glue another ribbon on top.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF1QLmY98bE/Tic6kfqsU2I/AAAAAAAAASY/WfaZPE0yJHk/s1600/_MG_9626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF1QLmY98bE/Tic6kfqsU2I/AAAAAAAAASY/WfaZPE0yJHk/s320/_MG_9626.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How pretty! =)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> You can also do the same thing with beaded tassels by stringing them onto a ribbon and hot gluing it around the edge of a candle holder:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVk-3XxIZ2g/Tic6lnx2G2I/AAAAAAAAASo/AJZ1SssBTTA/s1600/IMG_9647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVk-3XxIZ2g/Tic6lnx2G2I/AAAAAAAAASo/AJZ1SssBTTA/s320/IMG_9647.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This method can be a little more time consuming depending on your tassel design, but I like the idea that I can take the tassels off and reuse them again in various projects.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> I photographed the candles in broad daylight to show the colors and details--and since it doesn't seem natural to have a bunch of candles sitting around on a balcony, here are the candles in action!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22V9YYmKjSc/Tic6k_hMBeI/AAAAAAAAASg/EMaMCbmLxeg/s1600/_MG_9657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22V9YYmKjSc/Tic6k_hMBeI/AAAAAAAAASg/EMaMCbmLxeg/s320/_MG_9657.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaded Candle Holder<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_volxaJtiXg/Tic6lZlb2lI/AAAAAAAAASk/-zuWTqjNlRM/s1600/_MG_9667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_volxaJtiXg/Tic6lZlb2lI/AAAAAAAAASk/-zuWTqjNlRM/s320/_MG_9667.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaded Candle Holder</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have fun!</div>~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-4324426305478483492011-07-15T14:01:00.000-07:002011-07-15T14:01:45.959-07:00DIY Beaded Tassel Wedding Favors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZrEJmRCnaY/TiCfkVoaBhI/AAAAAAAAARI/s4kXbXfz2JM/s1600/_MG_9558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZrEJmRCnaY/TiCfkVoaBhI/AAAAAAAAARI/s4kXbXfz2JM/s320/_MG_9558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After learning how to make beaded tassels a little while ago, I've been looking for excuses to make them because they are so fun and sparkly! The basic tassel is very easy to make, and you can make endless variations by changing bead colors, bead sizes, bead patterns, length of the tassel, etc. A beaded tassel can instantly add a little sparkle to your wedding favors.<br />
<br />
The How-To:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ORvQigfcPU/TiCmHaImvYI/AAAAAAAAARU/vbgmpNP_HK4/s1600/_MG_9494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ORvQigfcPU/TiCmHaImvYI/AAAAAAAAARU/vbgmpNP_HK4/s320/_MG_9494.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Materials: assorted beads, beading needles, and beading thread</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ig5lnIUudI/TiCmHiAipYI/AAAAAAAAARY/w_T5G19YhHs/s1600/_MG_9496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ig5lnIUudI/TiCmHiAipYI/AAAAAAAAARY/w_T5G19YhHs/s320/_MG_9496.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 1: Thread your needle and make a thick knot at the end (it needs to be big enough that it won't slip through the bead). String your desired bead pattern for one part of the tassel.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nfhpNBHSyVE/TiCmH4P9JBI/AAAAAAAAARc/lxOWCo1qg54/s1600/_MG_9498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nfhpNBHSyVE/TiCmH4P9JBI/AAAAAAAAARc/lxOWCo1qg54/s320/_MG_9498.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 2: Skip the last bead and thread the needle back up all the beads.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eNvx_n0IkLw/TiCmIFBeKlI/AAAAAAAAARg/gXEKkFBYE4c/s1600/_MG_9500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eNvx_n0IkLw/TiCmIFBeKlI/AAAAAAAAARg/gXEKkFBYE4c/s320/_MG_9500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 3: Pull thread through. You now have one length of your tassel. Be sure not to pull your thread too tightly, or else the bead will bunch up and not dangle in a straight line.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IJCMsJxLehY/TiCmIrvuKTI/AAAAAAAAARk/OjCPqkR8acE/s1600/_MG_9507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IJCMsJxLehY/TiCmIrvuKTI/AAAAAAAAARk/OjCPqkR8acE/s320/_MG_9507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 4: Repeat the process (thread a length of beads, skip the last one, and thread back up the same beads) for as many lengths you want for your tassel.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OxWravFjy_o/TiCmIzlyu9I/AAAAAAAAARo/cicAiXc0JSY/s1600/_MG_9511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OxWravFjy_o/TiCmIzlyu9I/AAAAAAAAARo/cicAiXc0JSY/s320/_MG_9511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 5: Thread the needle through your starting knot to bring the tassel together. Thread through a number of beads (I use a large one and 10 seed beads) to make the top of the tassel.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6iTtKaXmcz0/TiCmKg88yTI/AAAAAAAAARs/8aayko1sUHI/s1600/_MG_9515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6iTtKaXmcz0/TiCmKg88yTI/AAAAAAAAARs/8aayko1sUHI/s320/_MG_9515.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Step 6: Thread the needle through the large bead, creating a loop at the top of the tassel. Knot your thread and tuck in loose ends.</div><br />
The loop at the top makes the tassel very versatile and easy to attach by sewing or stringing on a ribbon. Here's two ways you can use beaded tassels on your wedding favors:<br />
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<b><u>Beaded Tassel Wedding Favor Box</u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HozrybqvO0/TiCmEz_0ANI/AAAAAAAAARQ/Nx4kUiu4Vgw/s1600/_MG_9564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HozrybqvO0/TiCmEz_0ANI/AAAAAAAAARQ/Nx4kUiu4Vgw/s320/_MG_9564.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I was inspired by the <a href="http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/one-box-10-ways-tassel-top">tassel box favor</a> by Martha Stewart Weddings. I wrapped the favor box with a narrow strip of silver wrapping paper and a sheer blue ribbon. Then I poked the top of the tassel through a hole punched through the top of the box.<br />
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<b><u>Beaded Tassel Ribbon</u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FCjZCBn2Cec/TiCmDqyBCLI/AAAAAAAAARM/-wD6LRiCUXU/s1600/_MG_9562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FCjZCBn2Cec/TiCmDqyBCLI/AAAAAAAAARM/-wD6LRiCUXU/s320/_MG_9562.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><b><u><br />
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You can also add beaded tassels to the ends of a ribbon that is tied around a favor bag or pouch. Instead of making a loop at the top of the tassel, sew the tassel directly to the end of the ribbon:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9BQDBkHLdhU/TiCmehcB72I/AAAAAAAAARw/4O4OZyV-5qo/s1600/IMG_0504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9BQDBkHLdhU/TiCmehcB72I/AAAAAAAAARw/4O4OZyV-5qo/s320/IMG_0504.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
String a large bead onto the ribbon to make the top of the tassel and to hide your stitches:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O1c-jiUIbcg/TiCme_7iOVI/AAAAAAAAAR0/CM4LXKzQ_Q4/s1600/IMG_0505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O1c-jiUIbcg/TiCme_7iOVI/AAAAAAAAAR0/CM4LXKzQ_Q4/s320/IMG_0505.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Have Fun!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6170684170252382221.post-60091795245647126322011-07-12T09:58:00.000-07:002011-07-12T09:58:56.410-07:00My Favorite Things: Plaid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckfQM8GV8i8/Thx8f9uxGXI/AAAAAAAAARE/0S5UxpQaQIs/s1600/_MG_9434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckfQM8GV8i8/Thx8f9uxGXI/AAAAAAAAARE/0S5UxpQaQIs/s320/_MG_9434.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I'm still a rebellious teenager at heart--and I'm totally obsessed with all things plaid right now. Am I too old to be shopping at Hollister? Probably, but at $15 these shirts were a great deal and I couldn't resist!~eileenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03993117305795627608noreply@blogger.com0