Make Your Own Felt Tulips

This is a quick, instant gratification kind of DIY. All you need is felt colors of your choice (at least 2), scissors, floral wire, a ruler and a hot glue gun. Now go gather your supplies so we can get started! 

1. Cut a 1/2" by 8" strip of felt. Roll it and glue to keep in place.
2. Cut 6 petals. Just free hand them... you can do it!
3. Glue the first 3, slightly overlapping. Then, glue the next 3 where the others overlapped.
4. Cut a squiggly center in your second color to cover the rolled base. Then, add a three petal piece at the center.
5. Fold your floral wire in half and hot glue it to the back and you've finished your first flower! Keep repeating the process until you can fill your favorite base.

Charlie

Faux Leather Madewell Inspired Tote

Here are the results of Sewbon's leather tote DIY. I opted to use a leather-like vinyl instead of leather which makes this tote even more affordable! This bag comes together really easily, and it is the perfect size! Having the DIY version of the beautiful Madewell Transport Tote makes buying the original very appealing because I see how lovely the style is.

If you didn't already gather up supplies to make this bag, you definitely should! Who doesn't need another purse?

Charlie

A DIY to Try: Sewbon's Leather Tote

This weekend I will be giving this leather tote tutorial by Erin at Sewbon a whirl! If it interests you, you should give it a try too... I will share my results next week! Do you have any crafty plans for this weekend?

Charlie

Dainty Felt Coaster DIY

I never used to be a coaster lover until I did this DIY. Then, I discovered how easily they add character to a room. They also save on trying to get ring stains off of your coffee table!

What you need:

Multiple colors of felt

Scissors

Leather punch

Glue gun

Template

Now that you have gathered your supplies, the coasters will come together with ease. To make one coaster:

1. Print and cut out the template.

2. Using the template, cut three scalloped circles.

3. Lay them together so all the edges line up. 

4. Place a spot of glue only in the center, gluing all three pieces together.

5. Punch a hole in the middle of each scallop with your leather punch all the way around.

6. Now, finish gluing the piece together. 

7. Repeat these steps until you have a set! 

This is not the end of my coaster love. I have a few more ideas up my sleeve, so I hope some of you love coasters as much as I do! I have a feeling that some of them may even end up in the shop... an addiction has started. If you make these, nothing would make my day brighter then seeing what you come up with! 

Charlie

DIY Wall Art - Take 2

Continuing this mini series where I attempt to cover some empty walls using only a little monies, I bring you idea number two... making a banner! I am doing my best to cover our bedroom, and the phrases continue... our bedroom wall may just end up being some kind of affirmation wall!

You will need:

Felt in 3 colors

Mini wooden rod

String

Scissors

Ruler

Favorite adhesive

Sewing machine (optional)

A print out of your saying in a font you like. 

1. Cut a piece of felt 10"x6". 

2. Fold it in half.

3. Mark an angle of your choice and cut.

4. It should look something like this!

5. Fold down an inch and sew or glue.

6. Slide the rod through and attach the string to both ends with a double knot. 

7. Now, decorate with your phrase. To create the letters, simply print our your phrase in a bold font that you like, cut out the letters, pin them to your felt and then cut again. Attach the letters using your favorite adhesive.

Now you have a cute banner to hang on your wall. I think I am going to make one for the door that says "Happy Easter". They're so simple to make and mine came together in under 30 minutes, so go gather your felt and make something fun for you walls!

If you missed the first part of this series click here.

Charlie

Mini Scalloped Envelope DIY with Template

I love when things come in mini sizes (2.5"x3.5")... especially envelopes, they're just so cute! I often use them to send thank you notes with orders, though they would make a cute edition to the gift bag DIY from earlier this week, or to leave little words of encouragement around for people to find! I guess the possibilities are kind of endless because they would be great for Project Life and art journaling too.

You will need: 

cute scrapbooking paper (you can get 3 out of a 12x12 sheet)

template

scissors 

instant bond adhesive (tape runner, two sided tape, etc)

bone folder

1. Print your template and cut it out.

2. Trace the template onto the back of scrapbooking paper.

3. Cut it out.

4. Fold on the fold lines, sides first and then the bottom. Crease them with the bone folder.

5. Add adhesive where the bottom flap overlaps the sides. Be careful not to glue the envelope shut!

6. Fold down the flap and you're done!

Now, go gather your things and make lots of envelopes. I promise they're super simple and lots of fun. Don't forget to grab the template!

Charlie

Simple Fabric Gift Bag DIY

This bag is super easy to make and it gives your gift an extra little boost. Plus, this bag can be reused for lots of different things. You could even make one just to carry your groceries!

What you need:
Utility fabric - bag fabric
Thread
Scissors
Ruler
Sewing machine

1. Fold the strap piece in half, wrong sides together, and sew. Do this for both.
2. Fold down one inch and sew on both pieces.
3. Attach handles on the wrong side on the fabric.
4. Pin fabric right sides together and sew around.
5. Sew to square corners (I did 4").Then cut off the excess.
6. Turn inside right and you're done!

You can change the size to fit the size of your gift. I just so happened to be making something for a bigger gift! If you have any questions, please let me know... and if you make one I'd love to share it here, send me pictures!

Charlie

DIY Wall Art - Take 1

Anyone else have a lot of wall space and a small budget to fill it? Smile and Wave's Alpha Sticker DIY is a great way to start filling up some of that blank space! 

I am horribly indecisive when it comes to committing to things on walls, but I am finally going to hang some things in our bedroom (only 4 years later). I would have never thought of making simple prints using scrapbooking stickers. It is pretty genius!

Following Rachel's tutorial was super easy, though I did decide to use a centering ruler to try and help with spacing. It is not needed, but really made quick work of laying out the letters. This is a simple and cost effective way to fill up some of your bare walls. The hardest part of the whole process was trying to pick a phrase/word.

What would you choose?

Charlie

Felt Valentine's Envelope DIY

Hopefully you have some extra felt left over from make your mini bunting because you know you're going to make these felt envelopes! You will need felt in the colors of your choice, scissors, a ruler, sewing machine/needle and thread, buttons and a glue gun.

1. Cut a (4.5"x12") rectangle from your felt.

2. Fold it, leaving (2.5") for the flap and cut a decorative edge on your flap. 

3. Sew a blanket stitch up both sides.

4. Make a button hold on the flap, and sew on button.

5. Decorate the front/back as you like using your glue gun. You can use the mini buntings pattern. 

6. You're done!! Write a little note, and send it off and make someone's day!

Tips:

• If you don't have a sewing machine, you can easily sew a blanket stitch by hand (if you're not sure what it is, make Youtube your friend!). You can make a button hole by hand by cutting a slit with scissors and sewing around it. 
• To get the scalloped edge, I used a We R Memory Keepers Magnetic Twist Trimmer. (I am not paid for that name drop, just wanted to share my trick). The other edging was traced and cut with scissors. 

 If you make one, I would love to see it!

Charlie

Make Your Own Mini Valentine's Bunting

I love when things come in mini sizes, don't you? Mini bunting fits anywhere and is super easy to make. Go gather your supplies and let's make instant cheer!

Supplies: Felt in different colors, scissors, a leather punch, twine or yarn, pen/pencil, pattern and an embroidery needle.

1. Print my pattern from here. Trace and cut as many pieces as you want in your bunting. 

2. Punch two holes using the smallest setting.

3. Thread the twine/yarn on the embroidery needle and feed it through the holes.

4. Cut the twine, leaving enough slack to hang and you're done.

After writing this whole post I thought maybe I should have called it garland... Do you call it bunting or garland? If you make one, I would love to see it!

Charlie

Christmas DIYs of the Past

Just in case you're like me and still need some Christmas decorations, here are some that I've done in the past! The embroidery hoop ornaments make cute gift toppers, and you could use the chalkboard ornament as a gift/gift tag! You can find even more DIYs here!!

I know it has been silent around here. I've been busy with super secret Christmas present making and attempting to get the decorating done around the house. I am in the process of making more ornaments, since this is the first year we have to decorate the entire tree. Usually, we stick it in a corner, but this year it is in front of our big window and it is sadly bare... We won't even talk about the tree we have in the den that just has lights on it!

Charlie

Felt Poinsettia Wreath DIY

This was my fist attempt at making a wreath with such large flowers. I am really happy with how it turned out and I love the 3D effect.

To make one you will need:
Foam wreath (wrapped in yarn)
Felt
Glue gun
Scissors
Straight pins (the longer, the better)
Thick paper (to make leaf template)

To make the Center:
1. Cut a 1x12" piece of brown felt.
2. Fold it in half and glue the edge.
3. Make little cuts all the way down. Just don't cut all the way through.
4. Roll it up and glue in place.

Flower:
1. Trace and cut out petals.
2. Glue them around the base until they are as full as you like.
3. Trace and cut some leaves out of green felt.

Assembling the wreath:
Use the straight pins to secure the flowers and leaves in place. I don't glue them in place because I really dislike wrapping wreaths in yarn and I like the ability to re-use the base. Feel free to glue them in place if you like!

Hang it up and you're all done! If you make one, e-mail me a picture... I would love to feature what you have created!

Charlie

Easy Fabric Coasters

I am moving right along with making all the fall decorations. Since Thanksgiving will be at our house this year I am trying to make the things I have put off in years past like these fun fabric coasters. I just love these little owls!

They're super easy to make and come together quickly. I used this tutorial as a guide and it couldn't be more simple. These would be perfect for Christmas too if you have already started decorating, or an easy handmade gift idea. Next up, garland making!

Charlie

Thanksgiving Wreath

Am I the only one decorating for Thanksgiving? I feel like everyone is already decorating for Christmas (which is great), but what about the awesome holiday that happens before it? Thanksgiving is my favorite!

I made this wreath using two different printables I've used before: pumpkin garland and leaf window cling.

Charlie

Nexus 7 Cover DIY

Thomas asked me to make a sleeve/cover for his Nexus tablet. Since it is so hard to make crafty things for men, I was really excited to give it a try. He loves it and I thought maybe the guy in your life would love one too!

What you need:
Wool felt
Boat vinyl
Headliner (very thin foam)
Sewing machine
Leather sewing machine needle
Basic sewing supplies

Cut your felt (11x6.5) and your vinyl (11x4). You will cut your headliner later, after you have those pieces sewn together to insure proper fit.

1. Place your felt and vinyl right sides together and sew along the dotted line (bottom).

2. Lay flat and straighten the seam. Now, cut your headliner to fi, leaving 1/4-1/2 inch around. This will depend on your machine. If it is good with bulk, do the 1/4 inch. If you have to really fight, go with a 1/2 inch. Pin it in place once you have it centered.

3. Turn right side up, headliner facing down and sew along the dotted line. This will keep your seam flat while also securing the headliner in place.

4. Fold the top of the felt toward the wrong side as pictured and sew.

5. Now fold everything in half, right sides together, and sew around. Be sure to go back and forth once at the beginning to secure the seam. It will be stressed the most during use.

6. Clip your corner on a slight angle and turn inside right. You're finished!

Notes: 
-You can adjust the measurements and make this to fit any tablet or reader (I made one for my Kindle pictured above).
-If you don't get a snug enough fit the first time, flip it inside out and sew a little deeper until you get the perfect fit for your tablet.
-Buy your vinyl in the remnant section, it is really cheap and you don't need much.
-These measurements fit both versions of the Nexus.

If you make one, e-mail me a picture... I would love to feature what you created!

Charlie

Autumn Window Cling DIY

I am behind, but fall is finally gracing my front door. I love using contact paper to make window clings. Last year I used wood grain, this year I thought the frosted look was fun! What better shape for fall than maple leaves... I made a pattern for you to use too!

This is a super easy DIY. All you need is: 

Clear contact paper

Maple leaf pattern

Marker

Scissors

1. Trace your shapes to the paper side of the contact paper using the pattern

2. Cut out! Might be good to watch something while you do this since it take a bit of time.

3. Stick them to your windows, mirrors or even walls.

4. Enjoy!

If you make some of these I'd love to feature it. Email me a picture so I can show off all your hard work!

Charlie

Pinned it: DIY Camera Strap Cover

I go back and forth on using a camera strap as I find it often just gets in the way. Now that I have a new(heavier) camera though, I am re-thinking my stance. I looked around to buy one, but they often look cheaply made or really ugly. I ended up making a cover for the stock strap using this tutorial I found on Pinterest. The only change I made was to the length so that I fit my strap better and it came together quickly and easily!

I love actually making the things I pin! Let's see if I can keep it up, does anyone else struggle with this?

Charlie

Circle Scarf DIY Round Up

Scarves are just wonderful things. When I put a scarf on it makes me feel like I made an effort, even though my hair is tied up in a knot and I made no attempt at makeup. Needless to say, I wear them almost non-stop once the cooler weather hits. Some people make fun of me for not taking them off when I take off my coat and I don't care, I love them. In my opinion, scarves aren't only to be worn with coats and people who think that way are silly!

If you're looking to make something like the one on the right, check out this tutorial. This is a huge and amazingly comfy jersey scarf that could be a shawl in a pinch. To make the one in the middle I used the same method as the one before, but now that I found this tutorial I am going to redo it. Don't you love the print (Joann)? It is the softest jersey!

The sailboat scarf was made using the same principle as the first one, but seeing as it is very sheer/silky fabric I didn't want the raw frayed edges (it was already getting everywhere). I decided to get better acquainted with my rolled hem foot and it wasn't too scary. I hemmed the longest sides (using a rolled hem) and then sewed the short sides together... super easy!

I also attempted this lace scarf, but it turned out just awful. It was definitely me and not the tutorial so I may attempt it again later.

You can find my scarf DIYs of the past here, here and here. I was going to write this post as a DIY and not a round up, but I noticed so many talented ladies had already made them and figured I should share the love!

Charlie

Floral and Vinyl Fold Over Clutch DIY

Remember all those clutches/pouches I made last week? Here are the instructions to make the large one! You can easily adjust the measurements to make different sizes. Hope you enjoy!

What I used:

Floral tapestry fabric

Quilters cotton

Zipper (I used what I had: 12'')

Fleece interfacing

Boat Vinyl

Leather sewing needle

Zipper Foot

Sewing machine 

Basic sewing supplies

1. Cut two square pieces of tapestry fabric (10.5x10.5) and two pieces of interfacing to match. 

2. Cut a vinyl square (10.5) and cut it in half, leaving you with two pieces (5.25).

3. Cut two rectangles from your quilters cotton (10.5x15.5). 

4. Place your tapestry fabric and vinyl right sides together (interfacing in place on the wrong side) and sew together at the bottom.

5. Make sure everything is facing the right way (you're looking at the pretty side of the fabric and the vinyl). Now, force the seam you made in step 4 to lay flat and sew across. 

6. Fold your lining fabric over (right to right side) and fold your tapestry fabric over (wrong to wrong) about a quarter inch. 

7. Place the fabric wrong sides together and make them even on the zipper. Make sure that both fabrics on the same side of your zipper. Once your fabric is even, pin and sew. Do the same for the other side.

8. Open the zipper about half way. Fold everything over so the tapestry fabric is on the inside and you are looking at your lining. Sew all the way around. You can finish the edges with a zig-zag stitch or a serger if you like.

9. Turn everything inside right and you are done!

If you have any questions let me know, and if you make one I would love to see it!

Charlie

Lace Laces DIY

Remember these shoes? I thrifted them not too long ago, but the laces were a bit yellowed and I wanted to replace them. I saw some cute shoes at H&M with lace shoelaces and thought I could do that. Making these were so simple that it is barely a DIY... maybe more of a make it yourself idea!

You will need:
Lace trim
Clear tape
Glue of your choice
Scissors

1. Using your old laces as a guide for length, cut two pieces of lace.
2. Roll each end of the lace very tight. While rolling, dab with a bit of glue.

3. Wrap tightly with tape.
4. Lace your shoes and you're done!

Super simple... now go make them for all your canvas shoes!

~Charlie