tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150131584215469602024-03-13T16:34:32.027-05:00How To : A Girl's Guide to Finding HerselfJust a girl in the world...finding herself through love, happiness, and DIYAmanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-59434027940082151482017-07-03T08:16:00.000-05:002017-07-03T08:19:36.426-05:00Why It Works<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPvbSGOWaHU/WVpEQqFjjTI/AAAAAAAAVGE/-rG_K-L9qzIEnoLNsYGnu82NJhyjlPPWgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="760" height="96" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPvbSGOWaHU/WVpEQqFjjTI/AAAAAAAAVGE/-rG_K-L9qzIEnoLNsYGnu82NJhyjlPPWgCEwYBhgL/s320/Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">So, I have always been a skeptic of these "Get Rich Quick" or "Pyramid" schemes. I mean who isn't really. I have watched people, especially now-a-days all have their own little businesses on Facebook whether it be Lip Sense, Lularoe, Monat, Jamberry, etc. I see the everywhere, but to be honest, I don't really see how it is making changes in their lives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But I have an old friend who sells It Works. She posts so much not only about the products, but about how this company is changing her life. How she has paid for a wedding in Cancun IN CASH, paid off loans, is building a house etc. Every time I read her posts I am so happy for her and I also think, "I would like even just a tiny bit of that."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I read and I think about the Student Loans I got from college. Don't get me wrong, I am so glad I went but when those recruiters are coming in to your high school and telling you about college, they don't tell you about the debt you will get in. They don't tell you that if your parents are Middle Class, more than likely you will receive no help in scholarships or aide. I was a straight A student in HS, graduated 5th in my class...did that matter? No. Unless you are a purple martian, who plays the bagpipes, and cured some disease by the age of 6, you probably didn't get a ton of help either.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fast forward a few years. I open some credit cards with the advice of my parents to help build my credit. Don't get me wrong they came in handy. But then again, no one told me they are had to maintain. You are Young and just think "woohoo, money," but then where does the money come from to pay for those? I still don't know either. Now I am glad I have had them because I have been in sticky situations that I have really needed them but dang you see that total of what you owe. Now, I am not at 10s of thousands of dollars so I may be being a little dramatic...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I go through funks as I am sure you all do about finances. Everyone tells you "Don't go out," "Put yourself on a budget," "You need to learn how to manage your money." Now, not saying these aren't slightly true, but I am not eating out that much. Maybe once, twice a month. I have no groceries in my house. I pretty much just buy gas, meals, and pay bills. While I appreciate people's "want" or "attempts" to help (notice those are in air quotes) but no one ever seems to give me a solid solution to maybe getting out of this hole.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now I am not at all for one second saying that I am not proud of where I am... I mean, I am a single woman who owns my own house, pays my bills, I have a good job I have had for 8 years (well in August it will be 8), and I have family and friends who support me. But there are things I want to do. I want to go out to eat with friends without after wards wondering, "How am I going to pay for lunches for the next 5 days until I get paid." While I know everyone is just trying to help, they are also not in my shoes. Its hard to listen to someone who has a husband to help pay for all the bills, I don't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, I see my friends posts and I want to try. But even that $99 fee I think, I don't even have that right now.... So I just keep watching and reading the posts and hope that something will come along. And then....they had a promotion where you could sign up for just $10. WHAT?! $10?! I couldn't believe it. I even had to process it before I messaged her. I still was even skeptic. Is this a scam? Am I going to fail? Will I not make anything? I mean, I live in Oklahoma and let's be honest, Oklahoman's love their fried food (I am in that category as well before you jump on me). I am not in AZ or Cali where people are all about fit-fit-fit. But you know what? I knew I would kick myself if I didn't jump at the chance. So what if I fail? So what if no one buys from me? I mean yes, this will be TOTALLY AWESOME if this works the way I hope but what am I out, $10 and the fact that I least tried?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So here I am. An It Works newbie and completely terrified, but also excited. I don't know where this road will take me, but life is a journey...so let's go!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you'd like to try out these products and become a Loyal Customer and receive my pricing head over to my <a href="https://amandafietz.myitworks.com/" target="_blank">It Works page</a>. You just have to commit to either buy 1 product for 3 months or pay a one-time $50 fee. Think of it like a Sam's or Costco membership!!</span><br />
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.51642759999998635.053806200000004 -98.16187459999999 35.8813142 -96.870980599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-17780153950256404342017-07-03T07:47:00.000-05:002017-07-03T07:49:17.680-05:00Kitchen Facelift<div style="text-align: center;">
So many of you probably don't know this, but I purchased my Grandmother's house in 2012 after she passed away. It was a great little home with some old charm.</div>
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It made me feel close to her still, but of course I couldn't live in ALL THAT WALLPAPER.... Right away we painted almost every wall....okay literally every wall was painted. I mean, it desperately needed a face lift. But the kitchen cabinets I left. As I live in it they began to fill more and more dated and the space felt like it was closing in on me.</div>
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I began sifting through Pinterest and Houzz trying to spark inspiration on what I wanted. I already had green walls so I decided white. And of course, I went with my all time love of my life... <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint.html" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Chalk Paint</a>. But I didn't want just that. I wanted to change the look of them. They are made to look like paneling so they had these grooves in them that are completely spaced randomly (you know, to look like wood paneling).</div>
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I had this ingenious idea to cover them all in a bead board wallpaper and then put a trim around them. I went to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiUzZS44OrUAhULxlQKHTfcBy8QFggwMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2F&usg=AFQjCNHgZZjs6eFBd4pYSY3gQfVS5ZiPyA" target="_blank">Lowe's</a> OF COURSE and began my search. I found this awesome bead board wallpaper (in case you weren't aware, you can no longer purchase wallpaper in store you have to order online) and purchased a heck of a lot of trim board.</div>
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So, I am sure you are like, quit jabbering and tell me how you did it already!!</div>
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Supplies:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;">Cabinet doors removed</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">New hinges (I had already replaced these)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Paint (since I used chalk paint, I didn't need to strip any finish off but depending the type of paint you use, you may want to see what is suggested for that) </li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Clear wax - I prefer <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Minwax-Matte-Oil-Based-Varnish/999913689" target="_blank">Minwax Matte Oil-Based Finishing Wax</a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Sanding paper (fine greet like 180 or higher)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Wood trim</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Wallpaper (which I didn't end up using you will see below)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Nail gun (I had one already with a compressor)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">New cabinet hardware if you are changing</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Painters tape</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Brown paper to help cover items in my cabinets</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Brushes (I recommend natural bristles especially for chalk paint and wax)</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Cotton rags for the wax</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Circular saw</li>
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<b>Step 1:</b></div>
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First step was to begin removing all kitchen cabinets and drawers. I recommend having some bags or boxes handy as you will need somewhere to put your items from the drawers. I left everything in my cabinets. Also, make sure you have a large work-space set up, I suggest in a garage. Also, remove all hinges and cabinet hardware.</div>
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Begin taping off everything. I chose not to paint inside my cabinets so I left everything in them and covered with brown craft paper. I taped off all edges around the inside and anywhere the cabinets met the painted walls. Don't forget to tape around built in appliances and sinks as well.</div>
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I cleaned off all my cabinets since after all, this is in a kitchen and there's this little thing called grease that likes to build up... I like <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Mean-Green-40-fl-oz-Orange-All-Purpose-Cleaner/999997044" target="_blank">Mean Green</a> because it doesn't have harsh fumes and really cuts through the grease. I just used and old rag and this to wipe down all doors, drawers, and base cabinets. I even had to use a straight razor for a few areas that were thick. If you are using a paint that requires sanding or stripping, I recommend doing that step next.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bz6OT6yEFVc/WVkVJVGOKHI/AAAAAAAAVFE/EeXpqoptSlwgqiNcwf3pLMh3UBc3jpUQgCEwYBhgL/s1600/13507152_10104070423370827_6707666336234038996_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bz6OT6yEFVc/WVkVJVGOKHI/AAAAAAAAVFE/EeXpqoptSlwgqiNcwf3pLMh3UBc3jpUQgCEwYBhgL/s320/13507152_10104070423370827_6707666336234038996_n.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
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So, if you are using the wallpaper this is where you add it. Once I realized I bought LEGIT wallpaper I decided to nix that idea. I thought I had purchased the stick on but this was the kind that you have to run through water and such and no one has time for that. It ended up working in my favor however. </div>
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*Note: Pre-pasted does not mean stick on.*</div>
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<b>Step 5:</b></div>
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I then added trim to my cabinet and drawer faces. Thanks to my Mom's meticulous measuring. 🤓 Make sure to measure twice, cut once. Cut the corners at 45° angles to the best looking finish. Although you are painting, you can still see how they are cut. You will then line up your pieces and nail them to your cabinet faces. Make sure you measure the depth for your nails. You don't want too long that you shoot the nail all the way through it or too short that they don't hold your trim to the cabinet. We used 1/4" x 1 3/4" for the doors and 1/4" x 1 1/8" for the drawers. Since the drawers are a smaller face, I used smaller for those as to not completely close in the drawer facing.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv25-NDaKg4/WVkWOM29RXI/AAAAAAAAVFk/zAhINVy-VB8G30BlmwzE3F6lIYpmA21agCLcBGAs/s1600/13529025_10104073587739407_3054479285045680802_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv25-NDaKg4/WVkWOM29RXI/AAAAAAAAVFk/zAhINVy-VB8G30BlmwzE3F6lIYpmA21agCLcBGAs/s320/13529025_10104073587739407_3054479285045680802_n.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 6:</b></div>
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Paint time!!! This was my favorite part although long. I used <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint/old-white-chalk-paint.html" target="_blank">Old White Annie Sloan Chalk Paint</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVnSc2Icsos/WVkWaI2Y6EI/AAAAAAAAVFo/EWHj9Mae4N4OXCIbEQDE4kfmFspPtDtEQCLcBGAs/s1600/13450778_10104070423445677_6807914006933436930_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="526" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVnSc2Icsos/WVkWaI2Y6EI/AAAAAAAAVFo/EWHj9Mae4N4OXCIbEQDE4kfmFspPtDtEQCLcBGAs/s200/13450778_10104070423445677_6807914006933436930_n.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
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I don''t purchase Annie Sloan brushes (as they are too expensive for me) but make sure you use natural bristle brushes. The idea with chalk paint is to paint in every direction for that old, textured look. This was a difficult step for my mom as she likes to paint in long even strokes. There is a great video <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/techniques/painting-for-a-rustic-distressed-finish" target="_blank">here</a> on Annie Sloan's site to show you the technique I used. I also like to leave it open for a bit before I paint to let it thicken up. This also helps you get that texture. </div>
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I painted about 3 coats on all doors, drawers, and base cabinets. Sometimes you can get away with just 2 coats. </div>
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*Note: Chalk paint dries quickly and even faster in the heat so be aware. This can be a blessing and a curse.*</div>
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Before | After</div>
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<b>Step 7:</b></div>
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Now it's time to wax!! I used just clear wax on this project but you could also add dark wax it that is the look you are going for. If you are using dark wax, I will add tips for that at the end of this step. Make sure you have your natural bristle brush and cotton rags. You can put most of the wax on with rags if you'd like, but you will need the brush for corners and small detail areas. I just put this on in a random pattern as to cover all the paint. You will be able to tell where you adding it as it will have a wet look.</div>
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Allow to dry until hard (usually 30 mins). Then, use a new rag (not the one you used to apply) to buff the wax. You will do this by rubbing in a circular motion. Dig down to your inner Mr. Miyagi. "Wax on, wax off." You will need to do this on all painted surfaces. This will create the barrier to protect your paint. I have read tutorials where people have also used polyurethane or other floor finishes. If you chose this route, please read their tips or tutorials on that as I didn't use this.</div>
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<b>If you are using a dark wax.</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: center;">Apply a coat of clear wax first. Use my steps above on that.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Apply your dark wax after the clear has completely dried. If you get it too dark, you can use the clear wax as an eraser.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">Apply another coat of clear wax once the dark wax dries and has the look you want.</li>
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*Note: If you apply the dark wax first, you will stain the paint and you CANNOT lighten it.*</div>
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<b>Step 8:</b></div>
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I had 2 doors that had a metal screen in them. These I taped off on the white painted part (once it was dry of course). I used <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Rust-Oleum-Universal-Nickel-Metallic-Enamel-Spray-Paint-Actual-Net-Contents-11-oz/3729729" target="_blank">Rust-Oleum's Satin Nickel Metallic Enamel spray paint</a>. There are many other color options but I was using all satin nickel hardware. Also, a pop of color would be fun!!</div>
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<img alt="Rust-Oleum Universal Nickel Metallic Enamel Spray Paint (Actual Net Contents: 11-oz)" height="200" src="https://mobileimages.lowes.com/product/converted/020066/020066187835.jpg" width="200" /></div>
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I have also used Rub-n-Buff before but it is very tedious on a product like this with all the holes. I sprayed 2 coats on the metal. I needed 2 because the meal had the same stain/finish as the cabinets on the metal which made it very yellow to begin with. Once that dried, I could remove the tape.</div>
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Before | After </div>
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<b>Step 9:</b></div>
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Once everything has dried, go through and remove all your painters tape and paper. It looks so different doesn't it?</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5oT6VEMFAY/WVkVJZpLyaI/AAAAAAAAVFA/ykskO_2LPkoupK384TNs_8lANa9SIhQEQCEwYBhgL/s1600/13494925_10104071588545807_555028384027517022_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5oT6VEMFAY/WVkVJZpLyaI/AAAAAAAAVFA/ykskO_2LPkoupK384TNs_8lANa9SIhQEQCEwYBhgL/s320/13494925_10104071588545807_555028384027517022_n.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
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<i>Nala thinks she's helping.</i></div>
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<b>Step 10:</b></div>
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Add back your original or new hardware. This includes your hinges and cabinet hardware. I wanted pulls on everything so I had to drill 1. new holes anyways through the new trim and 2. a 2nd hole on the doors since they originally had knobs. I used an extra piece of trim to make template so that each door looked the same and used the original hole as guide. Once I had all those holes drilled I could add all my cabinet hardware. I actually took all this hardware from my Nana's house after she passed away.</div>
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<b>Step 11:</b></div>
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Re-hang all your doors and put back all your drawers. Don't forget to put all your stuff back in your drawers!!!</div>
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<b>Step 12:</b></div>
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I also went through and painted all the trim and paneling in my kitchen as well. Use the same steps as above for your paint and wax as I already laid out.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJFbJNBNPrQ/WVkVKQWnBAI/AAAAAAAAVFg/CCW_itldPv85DIR69M66PPisXgRh0OIgwCEwYBhgL/s1600/13599940_10104100104918767_919305792430297026_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJFbJNBNPrQ/WVkVKQWnBAI/AAAAAAAAVFg/CCW_itldPv85DIR69M66PPisXgRh0OIgwCEwYBhgL/s320/13599940_10104100104918767_919305792430297026_n.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 13:</b></div>
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Enjoy your finished project!!! I am sure it turned out fabulous. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kNKt_Qlfbg/WVkVIgib5eI/AAAAAAAAVE0/Yf1Jqfs3I90SwJDiDtJXTBnKukCf2rQJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/13439112_10104081386186257_8112417538245675393_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kNKt_Qlfbg/WVkVIgib5eI/AAAAAAAAVE0/Yf1Jqfs3I90SwJDiDtJXTBnKukCf2rQJQCEwYBhgL/s320/13439112_10104081386186257_8112417538245675393_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before (Top) | After (Bottom) </div>
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<i>Sorry still messy in these pics.</i></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDbjIBJwZDc/WVkVKFKorGI/AAAAAAAAVFU/ofZ7QPTnlbAKyAR9H4RMb_T5BukjbCAmgCEwYBhgL/s1600/13524576_10104081386236157_5715423198360385953_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDbjIBJwZDc/WVkVKFKorGI/AAAAAAAAVFU/ofZ7QPTnlbAKyAR9H4RMb_T5BukjbCAmgCEwYBhgL/s320/13524576_10104081386236157_5715423198360385953_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before (Top) | After (Bottom) </div>
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<i>Sorry still messy in these pics.</i></div>
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Post your before and after pictures in the comments below!!!</div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.51642759999998635.053806200000004 -98.16187459999999 35.8813142 -96.870980599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-72198062099433350662017-07-02T08:43:00.000-05:002017-07-02T08:43:03.733-05:00DIY : Vintage Fan Desk Lamp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMoAvgzSCiw/VuXxRCpGNtI/AAAAAAAAL9U/SCeRzDzaZIgntODN5MdnzbrZlr--LghNw/s1600/20151226_081541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMoAvgzSCiw/VuXxRCpGNtI/AAAAAAAAL9U/SCeRzDzaZIgntODN5MdnzbrZlr--LghNw/s320/20151226_081541.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hey guys! To say that I am excited about this project would be an understatement. My LOVE for DIY, vintage finds, and repurposing made this a complete joy for me! This was a Christmas present for my brother and his girlfriend this past Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once I decided what I wanted to do for them, the search began for the perfect fan. I knew it wouldn't be easy but I didn't have to look far. Luckily, there are no shortages of antique and junk stores in my area. I found the perfect fan at one of my favorite places in town the <a href="http://www.rinkgallery.com/" target="_blank">Rink Gallery</a>. I will say, I am typically rather partial to this place. It has the right amounts of antiques and junk (junk being my absolute favorite).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, as I was about to give up on even finding a fan after going to multiple places with no luck at all, and I was almost all the way through the place, there one was. Just sitting there like it was waiting for me to find it. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sn4UO7zuyh0/VuXw3cNiEFI/AAAAAAAAL8E/O-IgPbPn-YQZHk8vy2im9IOo9yA5ndnSg/s1600/20151125_133641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sn4UO7zuyh0/VuXw3cNiEFI/AAAAAAAAL8E/O-IgPbPn-YQZHk8vy2im9IOo9yA5ndnSg/s320/20151125_133641.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will admit, it took me a minute to decide on it. I mean, it was $75 and it seemed high for something I was about to completely gut. There I stood, in the middle of the store, they were about to close in 15 minutes and I am searching on Etsy and Google for other fans and their pricing. Once I found that the majority of the fans started around $60 for fans half the size of this one (and my parents telling me to quit over thinking things) I bought it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And home we went. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCk4-KZGXsU/VuXw3UfSXGI/AAAAAAAAL8I/V3Ax65N8Ir4GwTgiMvNdcR6i2lykquU0w/s1600/20151125_134939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCk4-KZGXsU/VuXw3UfSXGI/AAAAAAAAL8I/V3Ax65N8Ir4GwTgiMvNdcR6i2lykquU0w/s320/20151125_134939.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once home and ready to work, it was time to take this puppy apart. This I will tell you is an intense process. One suggestion I have, I did this over a couple week time span, (not that it took me that long, I just did little bits here and there), so as you take your fan apart, find a system to keep track of what parts go where. The majority of the guts will become trash. I however, DIDN'T, so it was a lot of fun at the end putting it back together and seeing what fit where. I felt like a toddler learning that the round peg doesn't fit in the square hole.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bojrnmUwjtM/VuXw3WbLDnI/AAAAAAAAL8A/k_Bs01u2gk8jU_mxb-TvLrSchwYy2UOoA/s1600/20151213_191359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bojrnmUwjtM/VuXw3WbLDnI/AAAAAAAAL8A/k_Bs01u2gk8jU_mxb-TvLrSchwYy2UOoA/s320/20151213_191359.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(I know you are jealous of this awesome tie-dyed blanket I have here. I used it to keep my carpet clean since I was working on in my den and this has basically become a dog blanket 🐶</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">)</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VAY0uM3W94o/VuXw8Tn8hgI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/Iu7XPS63f8wtFSfeHCWJ1Q4bpNn-hdGpA/s1600/20151213_191403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VAY0uM3W94o/VuXw8Tn8hgI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/Iu7XPS63f8wtFSfeHCWJ1Q4bpNn-hdGpA/s320/20151213_191403.jpg" width="180" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look at that gross old plug I took out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once I had it all take apart, I cleaned out a lot of the old grease. Not that this was needed for function, I just thought it gross to leave it all in there. And there was a TON. Then I decided what colors I wanted to paint it. I wanted to keep the vibe of it but have it look newer/more modern. You can also leave it in its original state I just new that wouldn't fit in my brother's aesthetics (mine it would). So I decided on a chalkboard and satin nickel spray paint both from Rustoleum.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/400/3b/3b235b92-8134-4dcb-a3c0-49e5f3e203ce_400.jpg" height="200" width="200" /><img src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/be/be6fe9d4-2732-4455-b328-3efe8d306327_300.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I made sure to take the manufacturer logo off the grill and tape off the original labels on the fan body to still keep the integrity of the fan. I then painted all the pieces.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5VqMlteiWYo/VuX1SRfZ5BI/AAAAAAAAL9s/89IQ3WE0w0Y8D4WnUnfscw_oi8jEo1rJQ/s1600/fan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5VqMlteiWYo/VuX1SRfZ5BI/AAAAAAAAL9s/89IQ3WE0w0Y8D4WnUnfscw_oi8jEo1rJQ/s320/fan1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(Before I painted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I didn't actually need to paint the bottom since I recovered that in felt but oh well)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The painting process was interesting considering my brother was now home at this point and insisted on going out in my garage so I had to keep covering with a dog crate lid and a sheet. I recommend if this is a gift, do it when they aren't staying at your house or make sure they don't enter into your space. I had to do a few touch-ups because of this but no biggie.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, it was wiring everything up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Things I used on mine:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brass keyless sockets from <a href="http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10051&langId=-1&productId=3379418&partNumber=75111-37672-884452&storeId=10151&N=0&Ntt=" target="_blank">Lowe's</a> </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">18/2 clear lamp cord from Lowe's (about 5')</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8-pk brass lamp pipes from <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_46816-1811-905L___?Ntt=46816&UserSearch=46816&productId=3659642" target="_blank">Lowe's</a> 1/8 (I only used the small ones so I bought 2 pks)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rotary switch from <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_77571-37672-884417___?Ntt=77571&UserSearch=77571&productId=3379520" target="_blank">Lowe's</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4-lite cluster body from <a href="http://www.libertybrass.com/catalog.html?action=categoryView&cid=58" target="_blank">Liberty Brass</a> (make sure you watch the pipe sizing, I used 1/8 which is pretty standard). </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vintage bulbs I bought from my store <a href="http://lifestylesstores.com/" target="_blank">Lifestyle's Stores</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Black and white zig-zag round wire from <a href="http://vintagewireandsupply.com/black-white-zigzag-round-wire-by-the-foot-pulley-cord-18-gauge/" target="_blank">Vintage Wire Supply</a> (I ordered 5' but they are completely awesome and sent me an extra foot)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Antique replica black plug from <a href="http://vintagewireandsupply.com/antique-replica-plug-black-black-insert/" target="_blank">Vintage Wire Supply</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Long 1/8 all thread approximately 8" </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wire strippers</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Electrical tape</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wire nuts</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Screwdriver</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Razor blade</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">**WARNING-IF YOU ARE NOT COMFORTABLE WITH WIRING GET SOMEONE WHO IS. I AM NOT AN ELECTRICIAN AN AM NOT RESPONSIBLE IF ANY WIRING IS DONE WRONG*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I began by wiring the sockets one-by-one. Make sure, if you are not familiar with wiring you look up the correct way. I typically use this image. It helps you find the correct wires and screws. (This is also helpful when you get to the plug.) There are also a lot of great videos on YouTube you can watch.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b67ejuGicnA/UiywkMljFzI/AAAAAAAAAqI/9LWtT65PlggkCouiDjBl092yBhR0r3vkw/s1600/imagenotes.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b67ejuGicnA/UiywkMljFzI/AAAAAAAAAqI/9LWtT65PlggkCouiDjBl092yBhR0r3vkw/s320/imagenotes.jpeg" width="285" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once I had all the sockets wired, we had to attach them to the cluster body. This was tough since it gets very tight with all the wiring. I actually had to redo it since the first time I did the wires shorted. I knew this because when we plugged it in it POPPED and smoke came out the back. DO NOT touch the lamp when you are testing and plugging it in for this reason. If I had been touching the lamp when I plugged it in I could've been seriously injured.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once we had all the wiring good and safely wrapped in electrical tape I attached cluster body and sockets to the body of the motor with the long all thread. This is a trial by error process finding the correct length and positioning. You don't want it too far into the cluster body that it pinches or cuts into the wires. I painted the all thread since you would see it through the body and I didn't want it to be noticeable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once that was in place, I wired the sockets onto the decorative round wire. I only used this where it would be seen (along the side of the body and for the actual plug). Once again, make sure you use your wire nuts and electrical tape properly and make sure that the wires are not touching one another (hot and neutral). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I then added the plug to the end. This was also fun since it was my first time using a separate plug I had to wire on. The plug I used also had the same size prongs so there wasn't a "hot and neutral" side which took me lots of searching online.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also added a rotary switch which I enlisted the help of my Uncle to wire that since he is an electrician and I kept blowing the breaker so I insist on enlisting help here or finding a good how-to online.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When all the wiring was said and done, all I had left to do was reassemble it. I recovered the base with all new felt which I already had but you can find this at any craft store. This took two people to do FYI. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And voila...all done!!!</span></div>
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<br />Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-16851996775148532262017-07-02T08:39:00.000-05:002017-07-02T08:39:42.976-05:00WHAT'S BEEN UP...<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So I realize I have taken a bit of a hiatus from this blog...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'd like to get back on here and sorry I haven' been. There has been so much going on that it's just been a whirlwind!!Work is getting crazy, Relay season has finished, starting a new venture with It Works, my brother is getting married and buying a house; there's almost so much I am not sure where to start again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So I am just going to leave this little bit here and I will pick up...</span>Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.51642759999998635.053806200000004 -98.16187459999999 35.8813142 -96.870980599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-54247760530841014982016-03-13T19:23:00.002-05:002016-03-13T19:23:21.894-05:00Getting Excited<div style="text-align: center;">
I am getting so excited for this coming year's Relay For Life of Oklahoma City event!!!</div>
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Here is a video I made for last year's event. This is why I love this organization so much.</div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/z7IrtNIKYEs/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z7IrtNIKYEs?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Check it out. Want more information on why I Relay? Visit my personal <a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/mandyfietz" target="_blank">fundraising page</a>!!!</div>
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<img alt="Relay for Life" src="http://main.acsevents.org/images/rflcy15/rfl-logo.png" /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;">#OKCRFL2016</span></b></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-42445548076878032432014-08-16T17:27:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:11:13.084-05:00Piano face lift : Part I<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My Grandmother left my cousin Rachel her old piano after she passed. This piece has definitely seen a lot in its days. Children growing up right around it; then grandchildren. It has scars, stories, and a life of its own that it has lived. I was enlisted in giving this piece a face lift since it has seen its better days as far as the looks department goes. I was chosen since as they say, I'm the "crafty" one in the family and seem to get the most joy out of these sorts of projects.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, I have decided to share my process and journey with you as I go along. This will be a project that will last me awhile indeed. Hopefully I can truly bring a new life to this for my cousin.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To begin, you will need to gather your supplies. I purchased all of these at Lowes or you can use your local hardware store you like best.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I like Citristrip since it's not as harsh and low VOCs which means less fumes.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mineral Spirits.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Drop Cloth if you don't want a mess all over your floor.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Trust me, there will be a huge mess.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You could possibly splash or fling the products or the stain/paint your stripping into your eye.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;">**Now, before you begin. I suggest wearing long pants and sleeves. Now, I typically don't follow my instructions well so beware, you will get covered in stain that if left will stain your skin.**</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First, I began with the bench. Here are a few before shots of it. You can see that is has definitely seen its better days for sure.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I began with pouring my stripper into an metal old pan (I used an old baking pan). Make sure you read the specific instructions on your stripping agent that you are using because there are many different kinds and they aren't all handled the same. Then using your natural bristle brush, begin brushing the stripping agent on the piece thickly.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YfvEo8YxHT8/U-_RBRQNJPI/AAAAAAAAEpw/A1j4PI6VZCY/s1600/DSCN0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YfvEo8YxHT8/U-_RBRQNJPI/AAAAAAAAEpw/A1j4PI6VZCY/s1600/DSCN0175.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now here is where I was in for a surprise. Now, if you have ever used a stripping agent before, it will bubble up and react with the stain. But on this piece, I noticed it reacting quite quickly and a little intense. You can see the pictures below. Now typically, it will be the color of your stain. For me it was white and an odd yellow color.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6rwW7B1lCSM/U-_QYw5P5nI/AAAAAAAAEnI/hr4lKDLpvOk/s1600/DSCN0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6rwW7B1lCSM/U-_QYw5P5nI/AAAAAAAAEnI/hr4lKDLpvOk/s1600/DSCN0154.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I began to use my scraper to scrape the stain off. As I got closer, I noticed that the top of this bench had been covered by some time of faux-leather or some other kind of fabric. So, if you ever wanted to know what a stripping agent would do to it, there you go. So, we got off the part that had reacted an bubbled up and started tugging and tugging. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd5WgP0mnhE/U-_Qd1KWlZI/AAAAAAAAEnY/3YcmrYjaA-w/s1600/DSCN0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd5WgP0mnhE/U-_Qd1KWlZI/AAAAAAAAEnY/3YcmrYjaA-w/s1600/DSCN0157.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">**The fabric after ripping it off**</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">**There was also a piece of black fabric on the underside of the lid**</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3ft764jREs/U-_QyhZf6XI/AAAAAAAAEo4/p8DEKnsEmxA/s1600/DSCN0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3ft764jREs/U-_QyhZf6XI/AAAAAAAAEo4/p8DEKnsEmxA/s1600/DSCN0169.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mBequqmU6SI/U-_Q1BCyulI/AAAAAAAAEpI/5p9zEBmLAM4/s1600/DSCN0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mBequqmU6SI/U-_Q1BCyulI/AAAAAAAAEpI/5p9zEBmLAM4/s1600/DSCN0170.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And low and behold, a beautiful piece of unfinished wood underneath. Who would've known. I don't believe anyone in my family knew, or if they did they didn't share with me. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zgrkad_Giok/U-_Q4t7n5BI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/tdmqaMZnams/s1600/DSCN0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zgrkad_Giok/U-_Q4t7n5BI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/tdmqaMZnams/s1600/DSCN0171.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wnk4nBKnUhA/U-_Q9KKQv0I/AAAAAAAAEpg/vHRtE1WLv1g/s1600/DSCN0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wnk4nBKnUhA/U-_Q9KKQv0I/AAAAAAAAEpg/vHRtE1WLv1g/s1600/DSCN0173.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I also did a quick layer of stripping agent to get off any glue but it will also need to be sanded before staining.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I continued with the stripping agent on the rest of the bench (sorry, I was too covered in goop to take pictures during this process). I went around and covered the entire bench with stripper before scraping it off. Now this poor bench seems to have had many coats of stain, finishes, and glue gobbed all over it. This took some time scraping. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After I was done with the first round, I went back around. This time, I did a small section of stripping agent and then immediately began scraping. You can typically tell if there is still stain on there. It will feel tacky/sticky to the touch or when scraping or you will see a residue almost like a tacky glue when you look at it in the light. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, the legs were the biggest challenge. Not only because they were round but it seemed as if stain and a lacquer of some sorts had just been poured onto them and left to dry. Each leg took about 30 minutes and there is still small traces left. The feet were definitely the hardest. Odd surfaces are very difficult to remove the finish. You can't really get the scraper in there so you're just sort of knocking and scraping at it. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once done, here is the stripped product.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EYGDTrfHvAw/U-_RB3HgwwI/AAAAAAAAEp0/al8iymkBaaM/s1600/DSCN0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EYGDTrfHvAw/U-_RB3HgwwI/AAAAAAAAEp0/al8iymkBaaM/s1600/DSCN0176.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The next step will be staining. We will have to see how it turns out since the legs, body, and top are all obviously different woods. This entire process took me a total of 4 hours.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;">**Now, if you are like me and didn't follow my warning, you probably have stain all over you. You can use a rag & your mineral spirits to get this off but make sure you wash that area IMMEDIATLY after. Otherwise, you will have stained skin**</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jDsrdU4FGoY/U-_ZKOAMxhI/AAAAAAAAEqw/r2ZV8DBu08Y/s1600/DSCN0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jDsrdU4FGoY/U-_ZKOAMxhI/AAAAAAAAEqw/r2ZV8DBu08Y/s1600/DSCN0179.JPG" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--yGHcAPXIGc/U-_ZJ8Jy4zI/AAAAAAAAEqs/w32D-HoWCDw/s1600/DSCN0180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--yGHcAPXIGc/U-_ZJ8Jy4zI/AAAAAAAAEqs/w32D-HoWCDw/s1600/DSCN0180.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Until next time folks...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><img height="72" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--yGHcAPXIGc/U-_ZJ8Jy4zI/AAAAAAAAEqs/w32D-HoWCDw/s1600/DSCN0180.JPG" style="left: 436px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 8909px;" width="96" /></span>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F--yGHcAPXIGc%2FU-_ZJ8Jy4zI%2FAAAAAAAAEqs%2Fw32D-HoWCDw%2Fs1600%2FDSCN0180.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--yGHcAPXIGc/U-_ZJ8Jy4zI/AAAAAAAAEqs/w32D-HoWCDw/s1600/DSCN0180.JPG" -->Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.462593826969282 -97.487182617187535.049110826969283 -98.1326296171875 35.876076826969282 -96.8417356171875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-70392850212408457522013-09-10T12:43:00.003-05:002016-03-13T19:13:27.608-05:00DIY Milk Can Lid Pendant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CKEebrkfD0/Ui9WfbjkjHI/AAAAAAAAArE/ndP0OXfaVyI/s1600/20130317_205520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CKEebrkfD0/Ui9WfbjkjHI/AAAAAAAAArE/ndP0OXfaVyI/s320/20130317_205520.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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As you probably saw on my earlier post for my <a href="http://amandafietz.blogspot.com/2013/09/diy-mason-jar-chandelier.html" target="_blank">DIY Mason Jar Chandelier</a>, I needed a light that had the same feel for over my kitchen sink. You could also do this with a mason jar, metal colander, even a wire basket; the possibilities are endless!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What you'll need:</span></div>
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Item for your pendant shade, I used the metal lid from an old milk can.</div>
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Like I said, you could use a mason jar, colander, anything you can cut/drill a hole into.</div>
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Pendant Kit</div>
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I got mine at Lowe's for about $20.</div>
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You could also wire this from scratch using 18-2 lamping wire (or a lamp kit which can be found at any hardware store), a keyless socket (get which size you want for the type of bulb you want to use & make sure it is an exposed socket where you can see the threading around it, not smooth), wire nuts, canopy, & mounting bracket. You can follow my steps on the wiring in my <a href="http://amandafietz.blogspot.com/2013/09/diy-mason-jar-chandelier.html" target="_blank">Mason Jar Chandelier</a> how-to.</div>
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Socket ring (if you didn't get a kit. This is what will hold your item.)</div>
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Drill</div>
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Tin Snips</div>
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Marker</div>
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Light bulb!</div>
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I used a vintage bulb that I got at Home Depot for about $9.</div>
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Your first step is to drill a hole into the top of whatever you are using. Make sure you trace on the top (you won't see any left over marker here) the socket you are using. Then use your drill to drill holes around it. I used tin snips to cut the remainder. Don't worry if it's not the prettiest, the socket ring will cover most of it but don't get out of control with it.</div>
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You should have something that looks like this.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTMBKS5bmGg/Ui9WcrS1WdI/AAAAAAAAAq4/Q7svXhKM_HI/s1600/20130317_184147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTMBKS5bmGg/Ui9WcrS1WdI/AAAAAAAAAq4/Q7svXhKM_HI/s320/20130317_184147.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8HX0RXPmYpc/Ui9WcvZ6toI/AAAAAAAAAq8/dsAu7iLMU_A/s1600/20130317_184204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8HX0RXPmYpc/Ui9WcvZ6toI/AAAAAAAAAq8/dsAu7iLMU_A/s320/20130317_184204.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Next, take your pendant and slide it through the hole. Use the socket ring on the other side to tighten against your shade (sorry I didn't get a picture of that, but its pretty self-explanatory.)</div>
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**I started this with a low voltage pendant I had lying around and switched to the Lowe's brand after so it looks a little different here.**</div>
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Now, you can wire your pendant up and enjoy. Now you have a fun little pendant, that didn't cost you a ton of money.</div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-81550091307334711592013-09-10T12:26:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:14:13.529-05:00Flag cakeSo, I hope that everyone had a great 4th of July weekend. I know I did, minus the work...<br />
I had been dying to make this cake for the 4th and finally had a chance to for a BBQ. It is fairly simple, but does require a bit of patience. I got the original recipe <a href="http://%20http//www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/red-white-and-blue-layered-flag-cake/9aaef2a0-b01d-4cb8-9bab-c0d0451a1065">here</a>.<br />
So here are your yummy ingredients:<br />
Red Cake Layers<br />
1 box Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® white cake mix<br />
1 pint (2 cups) strawberries, stems removed, (I used frozen for mine) pureed in blender or food processor to about 1 1/4 cups<br />
1/3 cup vegetable oil<br />
3 egg whites<br />
1 Tsp red paste food color (you must use a paste not liquid or it will be pastel)<br />
Blue Cake Layer<br />
1/2 box Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® white cake mix (about 1 2/3 cups dry mix)<br />
1/2 cup blueberries, (I used frozen for mine) pureed in blender or food processor<br />
3 Tbsp vegetable oil<br />
2 whole eggs<br />
1/2 Tsp blue paste food color (you must use a paste not liquid or it will be pastel)<br />
3 Tbsp Betty Crocker® white star-shaped candy sprinkles or nonpareils<br />
White Cake Layer<br />
1/2 box Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® white cake mix (about 1 2/3 cups dry mix)<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
2 Tbsp vegetable oil<br />
2 egg whites<br />
Frosting and Sprinkles<br />
3 containers Betty Crocker® Whipped fluffy white frosting<br />
2 containers of Cool Whip (this I added from the original recipe)<br />
Betty Crocker® red, white and blue sprinkles, as desired <br />
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To make red cake layers: Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray two 8-inch round pans; place 8-inch round piece cooking parchment paper in bottom of each pan. Grease or spray parchment paper. In large bowl, beat red cake layer ingredients with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds, then on high speed about 2 minutes or until smooth. Spread in pans. Bake 29 to 34 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool 10 minutes; run knife around sides of pans to loosen cakes. Gently remove from pans to cooling rack; remove parchment paper. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Flatten cake layers by trimming off rounded tops. Cut layers in half horizontally to make 4 thin red layers. In 1 layer, cut small round out of center, using 4-inch biscuit cutter. Wrap and freeze 1 thin layer and the layer that was cut out of; save for another use.<br />
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To make blue cake layer: Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 8-inch round pan; place 8-inch round piece cooking parchment paper in bottom of pan. Grease or spray parchment paper. In medium bowl, beat all blue cake layer ingredients except sprinkles with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds, then on high speed about 2 minutes or until smooth. Fold sprinkles into batter. Spread in pan. Bake 29 to 34 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool 10 minutes; run knife around side of pan to loosen cake. Gently remove from pan to cooling rack; remove parchment paper. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Flatten cake layer by trimming off rounded top. Do not cut in half horizontally. Cut small round out of center, using 4-inch round biscuit cutter. Wrap and freeze 4-inch round; save for another use.<br />
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To make white cake layer: Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 8-inch round pan; place 8-inch round piece cooking parchment paper in bottom of pan. Grease or spray parchment paper. In medium bowl, beat white cake layer ingredients with electric mixer on high speed about 2 minutes or until smooth. Spread in pan. Bake 29 to 34 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool 10 minutes; run knife around side of pan to loosen cake. Gently remove from pan to cooling rack; remove parchment paper. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Flatten cake layer by trimming off rounded top. Cut layer in half horizontally to make 2 thin white layers. In 1 layer, cut small round out of center, using 4-inch biscuit cutter. Wrap and freeze the layer that was cut out of; save for another use.<br />
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Combine the frosting and Cool Whip to make a yummy, light icing, this will make more then you need; otherwise you can just stick with the fluffy icing.<br />
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To assemble cake: Place 1 red cake layer on cake stand or serving platter; spread 1/3 cup frosting on top. Top with 1 white cake layer; spread 1/3 cup frosting on top. Top with second red cake layer; spread 1/3 cup frosting on top. Gently top with blue layer. Carefully spread thin layer of frosting on cut edge inside of blue cake layer. Gently insert white 4-inch cake round; top with frosting and then red 4-inch cake round; press slightly. Frost side and top of cake using remaining frosting. Top with sprinkles. Store loosely covered in refrigerator. <br />
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Helpful tips:<br />
Make sure you use paste food coloring, I found mine at Walmart our you can find at any specialty craft store with a cake decorating aisle. If you use liquid food coloring, it will come out pastel.<br />
When layering the cakes, place the cooked part face up verses the side you cut, this makes it much easier when icing.<br />
To achieve the star shaped sprinkles, you can use a cookie cutter or I cut a star out of the lids of one of the Cool Whip containers, just make sure to hold it above the cake, don't lay it on top.<br />
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-44647768272658553922013-09-08T12:39:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:14:25.944-05:00DIY Mason Jar Chandelier<div style="text-align: center;">
So, after I had purchased my new house I went to work on replacing all the light fixtures in the house. I couldn't live around that horrid polished brass, you all know what I'm talking about. When it came down to the kitchen though, I decided I want something quirky and different from your typical breakfast light. You see, I work in a lighting store so I stare at those fixtures all day everyday.</div>
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When I finally decided I wanted a mason jar chandelier, I went on the hunt to find some inspiration. I didn't want to buy one for $400 when I know that I was fully capable to make one on my own. I came across a DIY that gave you step by step instructions at <a href="http://karapaslaydesigns.com/diy-mason-jar-chandelier/" target="_blank">Kara Paslay Design.</a> This is truly the best one I found. Now I made a few changes to my design which I'll tell you below, but feel free to use her site as well.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Disclaimer:</span> </div>
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Before we start, I am not an electrician and don't assume responsibility if your house burns down using my instructions. If you are not comfortable, HIRE AN ELECTRICIAN!!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckc6WAWdTsQ/Uiym-YKCwYI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1AqP2jT3vNQ/s1600/20130317_174602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckc6WAWdTsQ/Uiym-YKCwYI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1AqP2jT3vNQ/s320/20130317_174602.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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What you'll need: </div>
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Mason Jars</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I used 6 for my chandelier you'll need to decide how many. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You can find these at Hobby Lobby for about $2.30/ea but I purchased mine when they were 50% off.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9yH6JYM4Xw/Uiyniac4QTI/AAAAAAAAAog/utnYpESoq6k/s1600/20130121_210417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9yH6JYM4Xw/Uiyniac4QTI/AAAAAAAAAog/utnYpESoq6k/s320/20130121_210417.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Wire (18-2 lamp cord)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I found this at Lowe's. You have to know what you are looking for. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Make sure you don't purchase speaker wire, it looks almost identical.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I purchased about 18'-20', you'll want to plan out your project before purchasing.</span></div>
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Tapped Hex Nuts that will fit you nipple.</div>
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I used 1/8-IP</div>
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Steel Nipples</div>
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I used 1/8-IP </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The original DIY tells yous to buy a long one then cut them down. I just purchased a packet that had multiple sizes. You can find these at Lowe's by the lamp parts area (usually on an end cap). I used the smallest size, about 1" long.</span></div>
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Wire Nuts</div>
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Keyless Sockets</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I used the medium base since I wanted to use the Vintage style bulbs in mine. You can also fin them in candelabra bases.</span></div>
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Tin Snips</div>
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A marker or pen</div>
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Drill with a Drill bit.</div>
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Screwdriver.</div>
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Decorative Aluminum Metal Sheets</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is something different the original didn't use. They had you drill holes in the tops of the mason jar lids, but I wanted something more decorative then that. You can find these at Lowe's or Home Depot for about $18 for a 12" x 24" sheet. I actually got mine at Hobby Lobby for $11.99, 50% off. There are several designs. I used Elliptical.</span></div>
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Hose Clamp</div>
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Canopy & Mounting Bracket</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">These can also be found in the lamp parts section at Lowe's.</span></div>
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Ceiling Medallion</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Completely optional. I used one just to add a little something to the ceiling. Also found at Lowe's or Home Depot.</span></div>
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Now to the steps...</div>
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First things first. The first thing I did was remove the lid from the mason jar. You will find the flat piece is loose. Lay this on top of your aluminum sheet and trace out 6 circles (or however may jars you are using.)</div>
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Then, use your tin snips to cut out the circles. Always remember to be careful when handling metal, you can cut yourself although this part is fairly easy.</div>
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You now have a cut out decorative circle that will fit in your mason jar.</div>
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Now, use your drill to drill a hole into the center. Easiest way to measure what size you'll meed is to hold your drill bit parallel to your threaded nipple. You want the drill bit to be larger then the solid piece, but a little smaller then the threads. you want the nipple to fit snug into your hole. Make sure you have something to put underneath when drilling, like a scrap piece of wood. Now, I suggest wearing some work gloves & clamping the metal down. I foolishly rushed this part and didn't take these precautions, and the drill caught hold of the metal and spun it, slicing open my thumb. Please learn from my mistake here.</div>
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Now you have your finished decorative lid.</div>
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Next, we are going to prepare the wire for our sockets. You will want to measure out what lengths you are using. I had each one at about 2' long. You will then need to use a razor blade to split the wires apart (down the center between the 2 wires but be careful not to cut into them.) This is actually easier then it sounds, just be careful not to cut yourself.</div>
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Once you have done that, use either wire cutters or your razor blade to strip the coating off each wire. I stripped off about 3/4"-1". You will now have a pig tail.</div>
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Next, you are ready to wire your sockets. First thing, screw your nipple into the hole of the socket. Thread your wire into the nipple and pull excess through just to make it easier to wire. The silver screw is your neutral & the brass is hot. As far as the wires, the ridged wire is your neutral & the smooth is your hot. I suggest saving this picture if you ever plan to do any wiring, it really comes in handy.</div>
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Now, loosen the screws on the socket, be careful, they are short and its easiest if they are still attached. Now, wrap the correct wire around the screw & tighten the screw back down. pull the excess wire back through the nipple, careful not to pull too hard ass you don't want to pull the wire out from the screws. Repeat for each socket.</div>
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Now, pull the wire through the cut piece of aluminum and push the nipple through as well. Use a hex nut to tighten down to the metal. You can paint this if you like since most nipples & hex nuts are brassy but you really won't see it once its hanging.</div>
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Once you have done this, add the rest of the lid and attach the glass part of the mason jar. </div>
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Voila!</div>
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Now, pull the wires through the canopy. You can try and hang and adjust to the lengths you want them but I found it doesn't stay. This may be snug depending on how many you are doing. You may need to drill the hole bigger. You just want to make sure you don't cut into the wire, but you do want the hole to big snug not loose.</div>
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Once you have done this, grab a friend and hold up. Now you can adjust the lengths you want them to hang. Use the hose clamp to put around the wires, and use your screwdriver to tighten it onto the wires. Get as tight as you can.</div>
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Then, use a small piece of wire, about 6" (it's always to best to do longer then you think because you can always make shorter.) you will strip both ends making a pig tail. Make sure you put the wires through your mounting bracket before attaching. Wire all neutrals together & all hot wires on one end. The other end is to wire in your ceiling.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kuIAbFny9Q/UiyoCKo02EI/AAAAAAAAApw/Yed7OOSFFYU/s1600/20130317_172959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kuIAbFny9Q/UiyoCKo02EI/AAAAAAAAApw/Yed7OOSFFYU/s320/20130317_172959.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now, make sure you turn off your power before wiring. Get help, I had both my parents helping me. One person will need to hold the jars which is a job in itself. Now wire the other ed of the pigtail to your house. (If you are using a medallion, put this up before wiring. I forgot and had to redo.</div>
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Now attach your mounting bracket to the junction box in the ceiling, and then attach the canopy using your screws and decorative nuts that came along with it.</div>
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Tada! You are done. </div>
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I used like I said the vintage style bulbs in mine which are only 40W. I suggest not using a higher wattage bulb since these will get hot.</div>
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Hard to get a good picture with it on.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Please feel free to comment with any questions. Also, I am not a licensed electrician</div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-23927013892764568822013-03-07T08:25:00.000-06:002016-03-13T19:14:35.915-05:00Lets Raise a Little Awareness Today<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, this year will be my second year in doing the Relay for Life OKC. It is such an amazing thing to be a part of and also a lot of fun, with a lot of walking. I know, you're thinking that's way too tiring for me to do...walking ALL NIGHT LONG! You would truly be amazed, when you know you are doing something for such an amazing cause! Yes, by the end your feet hurt and you are worn out from being up all night long, but you are making such a difference. I actually believe its tougher then running a 5K because by then end of the night you have walked much further and for a lot longer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is such an amazing sense of community and friendship and fighting for something so amazing, more birthdays and no more cancer. CANCER SUCKS!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Everyone on my team and at the relay has their own reasons for walking. It me be for a friend, family member, or even themselves. I walk for my Papa & Uncle who are both still fighting and my Grandmother who is no longer with us but beat her cancer TWICE! They are all truly amazing people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I challenge you readers out there to get up and take a stand. Make a donation to our team or join our team or another Relay in your area! Everyone is touched by cancer in some way unfortunately, so do this to help the fight!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can visit </span><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/afietz" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My Personal Page</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to see my story or our team page </span><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/TheMoonwalkers" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Moonwalkers</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to make a donation, and join our team! I am also doing a Bark for Life OKC and you can visit </span><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/afietzhuskies" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My Page</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> or the </span><a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/ThunderPups" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thunder Pup's Page</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to join and make a donation to it as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So you have been challenged....I hope you take it!!</span>Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.51642759999998635.0538092 -98.16187459999999 35.8813112 -96.870980599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-86033476484569093082013-02-12T11:20:00.000-06:002016-03-13T19:14:47.594-05:00Why I Relay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am participating in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life<br /> because I want to make a meaningful difference in the fight against<br /> cancer.<br /><br />Cancer has been a plague on both sides of my family for as long as<br /> most of us can remember. All different kinds to so many amazing<br /> people. <br /><br /> Currently my Papa is battling lung cancer. He has done 2 rounds of<br /> radiation, chemo and a pill therapy and can do nothing more since he is also battling COPD. The lung cancer is a result of Agent Orange and I'm sure working in<br /> maintenance in the public school in Lawton OK in the 70's. He is such an amazing man and so strong. He strives to keep going even though we lost our Nana (his wife) a year ago so suddenly. So many times, I can't believe he hasn't just given up so he can be with her. I can only guess that he knows we need him too.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />My Grandmother battled Renal Cell Carcinoma twice. It came back<br /> after about 15 years. It took a toll on her health but she was a tough<br /> woman. She recently left this world in April of last year. I miss her<br /> everyday. She was another amazing woman in my life, who taught me so much about who I am, and who I should strive to be.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Both my Papa and Grandmother have shown me true strength and fight.<br /> They are such amazing people and never give up. They are true<br /> inspirations to me and I'm sure to other members of my family. I am<br /> doing this walk to support theirs and other members of my family's<br /> fights.<br /><br />Every day the American Cancer Society is helping us stay well by<br /> preventing cancer or finding it at its earliest most treatable<br /> stages. They assist families in finding the best resources to help<br /> their friend or loved one deal with a diagnosis and their journey to<br /> get well. The American Cancer Society is also rallying communities<br /> (like ours!) through events like Relay For Life to fight back and<br /> find cures for this disease.<br /><br />Please join my team or make a donation to help the American Cancer<br /> Society create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. Together<br /> we can help make sure that cancer never steals another year of<br /> anyone's life! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">If you would like to join our team in our walk this June or would just like to donate, visit our team's page <a href="http://main.acsevents.org/goto/TheMoonwalkers" target="_blank"><strong>The Moonwalkers</strong></a>.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I83RZpFHuUc/URp5VEdOs5I/AAAAAAAAAj4/ZCXBNe2IZEE/s1600/482051_10100918927883047_1419503259_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I83RZpFHuUc/URp5VEdOs5I/AAAAAAAAAj4/ZCXBNe2IZEE/s320/482051_10100918927883047_1419503259_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JzsOADfixI4/URp5VIKtkNI/AAAAAAAAAjw/3KYFNwA0RV4/s1600/484634_10100918927738337_2003681182_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JzsOADfixI4/URp5VIKtkNI/AAAAAAAAAjw/3KYFNwA0RV4/s320/484634_10100918927738337_2003681182_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Images from last year's Relay.</span></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.51642759999998635.0538092 -98.16187459999999 35.8813112 -96.870980599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-21271783638864910282012-10-02T21:51:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:15:02.672-05:00This is Bat Country<div align="center">
So anyone at all who knows me knows that I absolutely love Halloween.</div>
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I am like the creepy Halloween lady in my neighborhood...I could run a haunted house in my own home during this time of year.</div>
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Anyways, I found this picture on Pinterest awhile back and have been craving for October to come along so that I can recreate this at my own house.</div>
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My inspiration.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKYjgiTmRfs/UGuk4Jan68I/AAAAAAAAAhM/KaA7vGK_b4g/s1600/bats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKYjgiTmRfs/UGuk4Jan68I/AAAAAAAAAhM/KaA7vGK_b4g/s320/bats.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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Now all my bats are the same size since I found some pre-cut bats at Hobby Lobby.</div>
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My Supplies:</div>
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Pre-cut foam bats</div>
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(If you can't find these just buy foam sheets they are usually 99<span style="font-size: medium;">¢)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Pipe cleaners </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Duct Tape</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">(I used black duct tape in case it was seen)</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2iJ8e_vFjM/UGulE_JfQfI/AAAAAAAAAho/y1G-67dbePA/s1600/20121002_170033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X2iJ8e_vFjM/UGulE_JfQfI/AAAAAAAAAho/y1G-67dbePA/s320/20121002_170033.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now I left half of my bats as they were, and the other half I added the pipe cleaners to make them a little more 3D.</div>
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Just place half a pipe cleaner (you may need to adjust this depending on your bat sizes) on the back side of the bat. Use small pieces of the duct tape to the center and ends of the pipe cleaners. Try as much as possible to not touch all of the sticky parts of the duct tape...the more you touch it, the less sticky it'll be.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VBZiQVgOo8Q/UGumXNpYDrI/AAAAAAAAAh4/F-aK6xuoW2c/s1600/20121002_170045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VBZiQVgOo8Q/UGumXNpYDrI/AAAAAAAAAh4/F-aK6xuoW2c/s320/20121002_170045.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Once you've done this, bend up the wings so it'll have a 3D look to it.</div>
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Now get to sticking. I had 9 packages of 12 so I had 108 bats. You probably won't need this many, I just have a large entry area.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2yPUe2Ygks/UGumxc76RJI/AAAAAAAAAiE/TCNz-8ezSKc/s1600/20121002_180050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" mea="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2yPUe2Ygks/UGumxc76RJI/AAAAAAAAAiE/TCNz-8ezSKc/s320/20121002_180050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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"What? No. We can't stop here. This is bat country."</div>
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-Johnny Depp as Hunter S. Thompson in <em>Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas</em></div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.516427635.0537507 -98.1481416 35.8813697 -96.8847136tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-1873749416950954522012-10-02T21:13:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:15:19.848-05:00Corkboard Facelift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided to give an old corkboard I had laying around a little makeover.</div>
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I had all the items I needed laying around but if you have to go out and buy this project will probably cost you $30-$40 depending on the board and stencil you buy.</div>
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This started as a simple corkboard you can buy at Walmart or Target (or just about anywhere).</div>
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I think this one was a RoseArt. See....pretty plain jane.</div>
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Now, you will need to pick a design. Just go buy a stencil for whatever design you want.</div>
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Now, I made my own stencil by printing a houndstooth pattern on plain paper...</div>
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Laminate it</div>
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Then use an Xacto knife and cut out the pattern.</div>
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Then place your stencil (or homemade stencil) on your board...</div>
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(sometimes it can be difficult to slide it up under parts of the frame)</div>
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Then use your stencil brush and get to stencilling.</div>
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Voila!<br />
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Once I was done I painted the frame and added a painted, wooden letter to the bottom corner.</div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.516427635.0537507 -98.1481416 35.8813697 -96.8847136tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-27341200580357043682012-10-02T21:09:00.002-05:002016-03-13T19:15:29.486-05:00Fun Take on a Picture Frame<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I actually did these frames as a birthday present for a friend. You could get creative on what you use for the frame...a block of wood, old cabinet door, etc. I actually have a lot of old wood samples from a furniture company from my work that I used. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>What you'll need:</strong><br />Whatever you are going to use for the main part of the frame<br />(Cabinet door, block of wood, be creative)<br />Picture<br />Accessories to add on<br />(Metal pieces, appliques, etc.)<br />Glue</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So on these wood samples, one had a lot of texture and the other a lot of wax which makes it kind of hard to glue anything on. I had to use a paint stripper to remove the finish from the raised panel in the center. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(If you are going to do this step have a clean surface that nothing can possibly be ruined if it drips our spills.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wear thick rubber gloves, if the stripper gets on your skin it will burn extremely bad. Pour the stripper into something you don't care about: an old bowl our cup. I used an old coffee pot I bought at the thrift store for a dollar for this very purpose. Use a paint brush and brush on the stripper. Let sit for about 30 mins. Use a paint scraper to scrape off the paint or finish. It may take a few applications to remove everything. Feel free to leave some for a rustic, antique look. When done clean with a damp cloth and let dry completely. I would use an old rag just in case it ruins it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(Sorry I didn't get a picture of this)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKXQ7QE9eGA/UGuSFmIcoxI/AAAAAAAAAZw/bkGpRS33260/s1600/20120905_202110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="317" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKXQ7QE9eGA/UGuSFmIcoxI/AAAAAAAAAZw/bkGpRS33260/s320/20120905_202110.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKXQ7QE9eGA/UGuSFmIcoxI/AAAAAAAAAWo/Gdpxc9Endxw/s1600/20120905_202110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next I used a lighter to burn the edges (this is why I left the white edges so it burnt that and not into the picture). Now be very careful when doing this step. Just do a little section at a time and blow out...if you don't blow completely out it'll keep burning. This step can be very messy, it will leave ashes everywhere. Here is the finished result.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86ZOwqvAIk8/UGuSMIG3nUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/NvbwoEO4f-A/s1600/20120905_202919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86ZOwqvAIk8/UGuSMIG3nUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/NvbwoEO4f-A/s320/20120905_202919.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86ZOwqvAIk8/UGuSMIG3nUI/AAAAAAAAAW4/XSqeIYOqKFU/s1600/20120905_202919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next, use a Mod Podge to apply the picture to the board. Apply a coat to the back of the picture then lay the picture on top of the board. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYW-x9ZjVas/UGuSVvXEOlI/AAAAAAAAAZI/CBBcM_U_68A/s1600/20120906_090202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYW-x9ZjVas/UGuSVvXEOlI/AAAAAAAAAZI/CBBcM_U_68A/s320/20120906_090202.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYW-x9ZjVas/UGuSVvXEOlI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/pGxqf9yblYk/s1600/20120906_090202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once you have it placed, apply another coat on top of the picture to seal and protect it.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-25AaTPcrP2c/UGuSSvWwCeI/AAAAAAAAAZM/AvAwUMVGYxw/s1600/20120905_203129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" mea="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-25AaTPcrP2c/UGuSSvWwCeI/AAAAAAAAAZM/AvAwUMVGYxw/s200/20120905_203129.jpg" width="173" /></span></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5bf1gcFqyY/UGuSPHHmmRI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/FWEUFy_SmGw/s1600/20120905_203008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5bf1gcFqyY/UGuSPHHmmRI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/FWEUFy_SmGw/s200/20120905_203008.jpg" width="174" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5bf1gcFqyY/UGuSPHHmmRI/AAAAAAAAAXA/oR4hWNM-HU8/s1600/20120905_203008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is what they look like once they have dried. It usually dries in about 20 minutes but I like to wait an hour just in case there are thicker spots that haven't dried.</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-25AaTPcrP2c/UGuSSvWwCeI/AAAAAAAAAXI/KNOZYfHqeO4/s1600/20120905_203129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5slQnC3n2h4/UGuSio0eUpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/KFEhk620mWc/s1600/20120914_073058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" mea="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5slQnC3n2h4/UGuSio0eUpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/KFEhk620mWc/s200/20120914_073058.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--WJFVKscvew/UGuSf4iB2cI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ylzW7f2OQJ0/s1600/20120914_072942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--WJFVKscvew/UGuSf4iB2cI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ylzW7f2OQJ0/s200/20120914_072942.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you can accessorize your board. I added some fun metal corner piece. These are meant to go around a square corner so I had to flatten the side pieces so I could glue it on flat.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rtw8jEEH3n4/UGuScEcT_zI/AAAAAAAAAXk/qzN4Nk21VIk/s1600/20120914_072931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="172" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rtw8jEEH3n4/UGuScEcT_zI/AAAAAAAAAXk/qzN4Nk21VIk/s200/20120914_072931.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I then found these label holders. I printed "love" and "family" on pieces of scrapbook paper and glued them onto the back of them.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQPX5Tm3pDo/UGuSxsYrG4I/AAAAAAAAAZE/Zy8OazeTCBU/s1600/20120914_074605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" mea="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQPX5Tm3pDo/UGuSxsYrG4I/AAAAAAAAAZE/Zy8OazeTCBU/s200/20120914_074605.jpg" width="192" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cQPX5Tm3pDo/UGuSxsYrG4I/AAAAAAAAAYY/mRq1UTYKU_M/s1600/20120914_074605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5iJFLMSQBU/UGuSmAU6GxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/CcztDHigdgI/s1600/20120914_074138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" mea="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h5iJFLMSQBU/UGuSmAU6GxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/CcztDHigdgI/s200/20120914_074138.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then I used a hot glue gun to glue these onto the top of the boards.</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6J8QJp5Fbw/UGuSrmXgv1I/AAAAAAAAAYI/MBLYUeEmgcI/s1600/20120914_074248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" mea="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6J8QJp5Fbw/UGuSrmXgv1I/AAAAAAAAAYI/MBLYUeEmgcI/s200/20120914_074248.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you have your finished product!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img height="96" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaAgbpWfxxo/UGuSuw9fOgI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/rUsFHnx9low/s320/20120914_074300.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 365px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 2930px; visibility: hidden;" width="84" /></span>Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK, USA35.4675602 -97.516427635.0537507 -98.1481416 35.8813697 -96.8847136tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-70224413088693274532012-09-04T20:22:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:15:43.240-05:00DIY T-Shirt Scarves<div align="center">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So...if you are anything like me, you are always looking for new and cute scarves. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Well, if you really are anything like me, you hate paying for them. I am on a bit of a stricter budget, </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">so any money I can save is great. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I have several bags of old clothes that I keep meaning </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">to donate but as of right now, </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">they are dust collectors in my closet.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So, I went rummaging through them to find ones that I liked the fabrics of.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">You are going to need:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Old T-Shirt</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(The wider it is the longer your strands will be...The longer it is the more strands you will have)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">First thing you will need to do is lay your shirt out flat.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uyOv8L5u7kk/UEaj8UmFC3I/AAAAAAAAATQ/OimslKBq6Sg/s1600/20120904_093554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uyOv8L5u7kk/UEaj8UmFC3I/AAAAAAAAATQ/OimslKBq6Sg/s320/20120904_093554.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Then, you will cut straight across along the bottom seam and just under the arms.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RANQ3HxGjR0/UEaj_ztW6SI/AAAAAAAAATY/opHxOLVwa7E/s1600/20120904_093749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RANQ3HxGjR0/UEaj_ztW6SI/AAAAAAAAATY/opHxOLVwa7E/s320/20120904_093749.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Next, cut several strips approximately 1" wide. Make sure you don't cut all the way </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">through the top, leave about 1/2" at the top uncut.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Gea1eOhZVQ/UEamfEeVQJI/AAAAAAAAAVs/pAo1pBWaXXQ/s1600/20120904_094458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Gea1eOhZVQ/UEamfEeVQJI/AAAAAAAAAVs/pAo1pBWaXXQ/s320/20120904_094458.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Once you have made all your cuts, pull each strand so it looks like spaghetti.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usDJqTTRui8/UEakDdrEmoI/AAAAAAAAATg/VmVhSiONL5A/s1600/20120904_094531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usDJqTTRui8/UEakDdrEmoI/AAAAAAAAATg/VmVhSiONL5A/s320/20120904_094531.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here's a pic once you are done. You can leave your scarf just like this.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-ibdIJaFnw/UEakE5OrKiI/AAAAAAAAATo/6k4sHKII4NM/s1600/20120904_094714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-ibdIJaFnw/UEakE5OrKiI/AAAAAAAAATo/6k4sHKII4NM/s320/20120904_094714.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Otherwise, you can cut just the top layer of the strands at one end and braid them.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Normally you would want to cut 6 or 9 (so you have 2-3 strands in each braid strand)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I only did 3 for this scarf since they were the only strands that had screen printing on them.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The more strands, the thicker the braid.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT5d0H0FcKo/UEakMNy02jI/AAAAAAAAAT0/uNZpDZxCdho/s1600/20120904_100008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT5d0H0FcKo/UEakMNy02jI/AAAAAAAAAT0/uNZpDZxCdho/s320/20120904_100008.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Once you have braided them, tie the ends and then loop it and tie it to the </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">extra shirt from where you cut them. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZFEEr9XCRU/UEakNR5NSGI/AAAAAAAAAT8/nqTb5rfxoOc/s1600/20120904_100231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZFEEr9XCRU/UEakNR5NSGI/AAAAAAAAAT8/nqTb5rfxoOc/s320/20120904_100231.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Finished with the braid</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N30daRiWy3c/UEakOS35HCI/AAAAAAAAAUE/dibr0OPqIJM/s1600/20120904_100334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N30daRiWy3c/UEakOS35HCI/AAAAAAAAAUE/dibr0OPqIJM/s320/20120904_100334.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here are a few more that I did this way.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">With a fatter braid. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fL4Qj0_tnVQ/UEakRRLUvVI/AAAAAAAAAUc/ejjaCKRwWVc/s1600/20120904_104527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fL4Qj0_tnVQ/UEakRRLUvVI/AAAAAAAAAUc/ejjaCKRwWVc/s320/20120904_104527.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Just plain strands. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oOuuHzI7K3I/UEakQXf5DeI/AAAAAAAAAUU/ZlCs2oSWxXU/s1600/20120904_101910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oOuuHzI7K3I/UEakQXf5DeI/AAAAAAAAAUU/ZlCs2oSWxXU/s320/20120904_101910.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">With it looped twice to make a tighter scarf around the neck. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YcgH6plRdCY/UEakPHAbLNI/AAAAAAAAAUM/0ipT4jxrwas/s1600/20120904_101844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YcgH6plRdCY/UEakPHAbLNI/AAAAAAAAAUM/0ipT4jxrwas/s320/20120904_101844.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">On this scarf, I cut the strands the other direction so there was a finished strand around</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">the top with loose fringes hanging. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fZZZCCGjSec/UEakSlEK7BI/AAAAAAAAAUk/sHqZ54-TkmA/s1600/20120904_110136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fZZZCCGjSec/UEakSlEK7BI/AAAAAAAAAUk/sHqZ54-TkmA/s320/20120904_110136.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Happy Scarfing!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-small;">Sorry that all my pictures decided to flip around every which way they decided to go.</span></div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK 73127, USA35.4811981 -97.660236535.4294781 -97.7392005 35.5329181 -97.5812725tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-65118522800065640362012-08-31T11:08:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:15:55.402-05:00Missing That Which I Have Lost<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today I find myself having a rough day. It started out fine...getting stuff for my new desk at work and a few things for a craft project I am doing. As I am working on this, I find myself thinking very strongly about my Nana and my Grandmother who both passed early on this year. I never thought I would lose them both so quickly. I wasn't fully prepared even though I was at peace. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You never can truly prepare yourself for such a thing. Although I knew they were going to a happier place and would see friends and family that they too had lost, I still find it so difficult to cope with. Knowing they will never be around again for me to get advice from, or just a card even. Knowing that I will never see their smiles when everyone is gathered together for the Holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can't help but sit here, sobbing like there is no tomorrow. Sometimes I feel there isn't. How can there be when they are no longer here? How do you go on? I just want them back...I want to hug them, and kiss them, and tell them that I love them. I stare at their pictures and remember every single happy moment with them and every talk we ever had. I know I wouldn't change a second of any moment that I ever shared with them. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I strive to be a better person, someone they would want me to be and can be proud of. Its extremely hard though, knowing I can't pick up the phone whenever I want to just hear their voice one last time. To hear them say they love me again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, today is a tough day for me...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just can't help but miss them with every single inch of my heart.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia";"></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia";"><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To live in hearts we leave behind<br />
Is not to die.<br />
~Thomas Campbell, "Hallowed Ground"<!--stanza 6; BMC--></span></span></span></blockquote>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G6IbW8n7u7w/UEDgV5mDplI/AAAAAAAAASw/3N9hGGS6kPo/s1600/Me+&+Nana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G6IbW8n7u7w/UEDgV5mDplI/AAAAAAAAASw/3N9hGGS6kPo/s320/Me+&+Nana.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://www.grayfuneral.com/obituaries.aspx#%7B%22__s%22%3A%7B%22a%22%3A%22a%22%2C%22First%22%3A%22lavonne%22%2C%22Last%22%3A%22lake%22%2C%22Page%22%3A0%2C%22SortName%22%3A%22LastPublicEventDate%22%2C%22SortDirection%22%3A1%7D%7D" target="_blank"> <span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">LaVonne Lake Obituary</span></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TnhJR0-MkRE/UEDgZftJVQI/AAAAAAAAAS4/v6Kimv9JaUE/s1600/Scan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TnhJR0-MkRE/UEDgZftJVQI/AAAAAAAAAS4/v6Kimv9JaUE/s320/Scan1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/dignitymemorial/guestbook.aspx?n=wanda-fietz&pid=157119926&page=3" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wanda Fietz Obituary</span></a></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0Oklahoma City, OK 73127, USA35.4811981 -97.660236535.4294781 -97.7392005 35.5329181 -97.5812725tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-76925285599767706932012-08-26T20:02:00.002-05:002016-03-13T19:16:09.587-05:00Hand Painted Shoes<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I had seen an adorable pair of hand painted Toms on</span><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <u>Pinterest</u></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;">. Of course I had to make these but I didn't care to pay $50/pair just to draw all over them. I found these on </span><a href="https://www.thebreastcancersite.com/store/bcs/item/48640/gregs-pink-ribbon-canvas-shoes?source=12-48646-3"><span style="color: magenta;">The Breast Cancer Site</span></a><span style="color: purple;"> for $20/pair. Each pair I bought had a pair donated through </span><a href="http://soles4souls.1mobb.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">Soles4Souls</span></a><span style="color: purple;"> and I helped fund mammograms for women with Breast Cancer. So it was truly a win win.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A pair of canvas shoes</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(I got just plain white so they were easy to color on top of)</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMA7l640Em8/UDrE70bVz3I/AAAAAAAAAR0/I9dWVq3QMdQ/s1600/Plain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMA7l640Em8/UDrE70bVz3I/AAAAAAAAAR0/I9dWVq3QMdQ/s320/Plain.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fabric markers...I used the Tulip brand found at Walmart</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(You can use fabric paint as well but that'll be much more tedious and time consuming. The fabric markers are permant, washable and easy to use.)</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwJxFvkQziA/UDrEzNujURI/AAAAAAAAARo/5L7MXJok8_w/s1600/Markers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwJxFvkQziA/UDrEzNujURI/AAAAAAAAARo/5L7MXJok8_w/s320/Markers.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Imagination!!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, I sketched what I wanted to do on each part before I started drawing on the shoes. Once you start, you can't erase it.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yg2W-EnXC4U/UDrF-eTjsDI/AAAAAAAAASY/1zMWNq1zK58/s1600/Sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yg2W-EnXC4U/UDrF-eTjsDI/AAAAAAAAASY/1zMWNq1zK58/s320/Sketch.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you have down what you want to draw and where, you can go to town. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you plan to put something on the toe like I did, I suggest you draw it first. Most of these fabric markers won't let you draw on top of what you've already done. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't be afraid to lightly draw with pencil what you want to draw. I did that on the argyle and the chevron so they didn't droop.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you're done you have a Kick-A one-of-a-kind pair of shoes.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh yeah....Boomer Sooner!!!</span></div>
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<br />Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-89173943454299524892012-08-02T18:46:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:16:22.875-05:00DIY Shrug<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is a fun way to revamp an old shirt that was destined for the trash or Goodwill and recreate it into something new and fun. The purple shirt was a gift from a friend that never quite fit right. I loved the color and the beading and really didn't want to give it away so this was a perfect solution. My other shirt was an inexpensive shirt from Walmart that always looked a little frumpy on.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I originally found this on </span><a href="http://wobisobi.blogspot.com/2011/03/project-re-style-12.html" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: cyan; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wobiso's blog</span></a><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What you are going to need is:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">An old shirt (Make sure that it fits you before you start. If it is pretty small, it will be too small when you are done.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ribbon (Or whatever you want to use for the tie. You can even use the bottom of another shirt.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, I will show you two styles, so choose one before you start cutting since they are a little different, the basic steps are the same.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you have chosen which look you want to do, it's time to get to work.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mBpsEe1O0k/UBsKxMtgaVI/AAAAAAAAAPI/cAHwSqql1Q0/s1600/T1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" eda="true" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mBpsEe1O0k/UBsKxMtgaVI/AAAAAAAAAPI/cAHwSqql1Q0/s320/T1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For this first look, I used a shirt that had some beading (obviously), so on This look, we will make one single cut straight up the center of the shirt. Only cut the front of the shirt, not the back.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkrGB39Cz4/UBsLJMLkd-I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/7169Js3uwag/s1600/cut1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" eda="true" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CMkrGB39Cz4/UBsLJMLkd-I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/7169Js3uwag/s320/cut1.jpg" width="248" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you have made the cut, we are going to pin our hems for the ribbon to go up through. Now, the size of the hem will depend on the size of the ribbon you chose. You will want your hem to be the size of the ribbon you chose. I like to fold the fabric over twice before sewing. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(I forgot to take a picture of this step.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First fold over the width of your ribbon, then fold again a little bigger this time. You will then pin your fabric using your sewing pins. Make sure to pin in the direction you will be sewing, you will want to be able to pull your pins out towards you as you're sewing, not reaching around through the machine.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you have pinned it, you can now sew your hems. Either choose a thread that will disappear or for a funkier look, choose a contrasting thread. Also, make sure to double stitch it on your ends to make sure that the thread doesn't pull out.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now you can pull your ribbon through starting at the bottom of one side, up through the top and back down the other side. You will use the safety pin by pinning it to one end of the ribbon. (I like to put the ribbon on twice just to make sure it doesn't rib while pulling it through.) Then you will just inch the ribbon through the hem using the safety pin to help pull it through. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I used a leather on mine and tied it to where you can't see it at all but feel free to make a bow in the front.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And you have a finished product.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the other way you can do this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These steps are really the same you will just do a little more cutting to it. This one you will cut straight up the center like the first style but the you will cut along the collar cutting it out completely.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tozeUI8PANU/UBsOkNQLnRI/AAAAAAAAAP0/i7bQ8bGsyJE/s1600/cut2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" eda="true" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tozeUI8PANU/UBsOkNQLnRI/AAAAAAAAAP0/i7bQ8bGsyJE/s320/cut2.jpg" width="238" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You will once again, make and pin your him to pull your ribbon through based off your ribbon size.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sew it.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then pull the ribbon through using the safety pin.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once you're done, you can judge how much ribbon you want left for your bow.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyH3vs74xIk/UBsPlFCkCzI/AAAAAAAAAP8/UsCVq8pnTK4/s1600/detail2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" eda="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyH3vs74xIk/UBsPlFCkCzI/AAAAAAAAAP8/UsCVq8pnTK4/s1600/detail2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This was done by cutting 4 different size circles out of fabric. (I used another old shirt that I turned the rest into rags.) Layer the 4 pieces (smallest on top) and then use a button or small detail for the center. So them onto your shirt.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(If your making as a hair accessory, sow them together and then add a hair clip or sew onto a headband. I like to add them onto a clip because you can always clip them on a headband if you want them on there.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I hope you have enjoyed this little DIY. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I added a little detail on the shoulder of this on (also a great hair accessory).</span></div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-70873213707948828342012-04-22T09:37:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:16:34.575-05:00Another Amazing Woman GoneSo recently I wrote a blog about my amazing Nana's passing. It's been a little over 3 months. Well, early Thursday morning we lost another amzing persn in our lives. <br />
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My Grandmother. Wanda Jean Fietz.<br />
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She left us at about 5 AM that morning. This was so sudden for us. She had been taken to the hospitalbfor nausea and weakness and turns out she had had a heart attack. No one knew. She had had no pain at all. But this just shows you how strong of a woman she was. She even knew that she woukd be leaving us and going to join the Lord. She had a Guardian Angel she had told us about on many occassions. I believe she had told her she would be leaving us and making sure she got to see as much of her family as she could and saying goodbye to her friend. <br />
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She was amazing in that aspect. I always loved her stories of incidences of her Angel or other stories of her life. Even though I'd heard them many times, I nevermind hearing them. My favorite was of when she was younger, she hadbeen in downtown OKC to do some kind of testing for the IRS and hr and a frind had gone to eat in an undergroun mall there when apipe had bursted. They had to run to escae the flooding water, when the escelators flattened out for emergency reasons ti avoid shock from the water. She told me of a man that helped to lift her and her friend up iut of the area. I loved that story, even though I'd heard it many times. I still have not visited this underground mall. We always talked of going together. I still plan to find it and witness the setting of one oof my favorite stories.<br />
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She was extremely devoted to her family. Never missed a dance recital, play, band concert, piano recital and more slif she could help it. She even travelled to see her son and daughter's families that lived a little further away as much as she could. No distance was too far in terms of her seeing her family and her grandkids.<br />
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She was truly just an all around amazing and brave person. She has faced so much adversity in her life but always remained the glue that heldbthe family together. She was a caretaker, a mother, a wife, a grandmother, and a friend. No one could ask to be more. She worked for H & R Block from the early 60's up until the day before her passing. She believed, and I do to, that it kept her mind strong and kept her going. She was never one to just want to sit alone. She loved to read and always encouraged m to read more. I strive to be like her. She was extremely intelligent and loved her family and was loved in return by more then her family, by all who met her.<br />
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You will be deeply missed Grandmother. I know you are happy with Judy, your mom, and Crayton again. Until we meet again someday, you will never leave my heart. I just ask that you always stay by my side and be MY Guardian Angel in life.<br />
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My brother Ricky, Grandmother, and Me <br />
My OU Graduation 2009<br />
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Me & Grandmother Christmas 2009<br />
My favorite picture with herAmanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-85396342687988170312012-04-16T21:37:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:16:46.786-05:00One of the greatest women in my life<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">About three months ago, I lost yet another wonderful person in my life. But this time, it was the closest person I have ever lost in my life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My Nana.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">LaVonne Lake</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">She was an amazing person. She was strong and independent and everything I strive to be. She raised 4 children almost alone while my Papa was in the Army. They moved to Lawton, OK finally from Rockford, IL. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We were so close since she used to babysit my brother and I all the time when we were younger and lived closer. She wasn't that typical grandmother, that I didn't really know and just shied away from. Although, she lived 4 hours away from me pretty much all my life, I was extremely close to her. I could talk to her about anything. She always made an attempt to come see my dance recitals when she could, which meant the world to me since dance was a huge part of my life growing up. She was always sure to send me cards for every occasion, newspaper clippings of articles she thought I'd like, recipes, religious books, health tips she'd cut out from magazines and much much more. Even though I'd only see her a few times each year, its like we'd never skipped a beat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When she got sick this Christmas season, it was such a shock. She spent the whole Christmas in bed. It was really hard not having her out in the living room enjoying all the festivities with us. In the next few weeks, her condition got worse and on January 13, 2012...she left this world and joined God in heaven. It was one of the toughest things I've ever endured visiting her in the hospital. You just pray that she would get better and get up and leave, but God needed her more beside him. I envy him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">She was strong in her faith, I wish I was. That is how I know without a doubt she is with God. Never fail, she would be in church. She always made sure to mail me a Lent or Advent booklet and prayer cards. She helped keep me stronger in my faith even if I wasn't in church every Sunday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I can't explain how much I miss her everyday. I wear one ring on my right hand she gave me several years ago with an A on it. It was my great grandmothers that was made by my great grandfather for her in the steel factory he worked in. On my left hand, the one she left to me in her passing. It was my great grandmother's wedding ring. She wore it everyday, and so do I. When I miss her, or am having a rough day, I just squeeze that ring tight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It breaks my heart to know that she will never be at my wedding, to see my kids born, to see my brother's graduation from college. I am so blessed that she was able to come to both my high school and college graduations. I won't take those moments back for anything. She was always so proud of me, even if I didn't feel I was that outstanding, she always made me feel like I was. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I will always love you Nana. I miss you with all my heart.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEVVY0LOrlA/T4zYu3A2aYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/g7DPfTqygd8/s1600/Nana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEVVY0LOrlA/T4zYu3A2aYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/g7DPfTqygd8/s320/Nana.jpg" width="285" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My Nana and I when I was a baby.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrQVz3-a1YI/T4zYwbR97yI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/3sKz6SKwo5w/s1600/Nana2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrQVz3-a1YI/T4zYwbR97yI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/3sKz6SKwo5w/s1600/Nana2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Christmas 2010</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-11698080890353728012012-04-16T21:04:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:17:00.129-05:00Flippy Floppies<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have been making these flip flops for years, since I played soccer. They are great for teams, fundraisers, gifts, or just for yourself.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You will need a set of flip flops. You can do a plain or patterned like I did. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The thinner the band across the foot the easier this will be. These particualr ones were a little thick.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hY9pGhI3ZcQ/T4ywNH9az_I/AAAAAAAAAM4/CH0X1u2A6ug/s640/blogger-image-835860896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hY9pGhI3ZcQ/T4ywNH9az_I/AAAAAAAAAM4/CH0X1u2A6ug/s320/blogger-image-835860896.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then you will need some fabrics. You can mix solids, use one pattern, or several like I did for this post.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I got these, 5 pieces of 18" x 21" pieces from </span><a href="http://hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hobby Lobby</span></a><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> for $9.99. Pretty much anywhere that sells fabrics will sell scrap pieces which are great for this, but don't feel bad to go pick some fabrics from a bolt.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1YuaufTPRck/T4ywOLWtzyI/AAAAAAAAANI/Z5z3io7YSlQ/s640/blogger-image-1569452807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1YuaufTPRck/T4ywOLWtzyI/AAAAAAAAANI/Z5z3io7YSlQ/s320/blogger-image-1569452807.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First you will need to measeure the length you will want the fabric. You will want it to be a little longer then the sole, double it, & then add a little fo wrapping around the band. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Note: It's better to make them a little longer if you aren't sure. You can always cut them shorter but you can't make them longer.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you will need to cut them into strips. I suggest using zig zag sewing scissors. This keeps them from fraying (which will happen using just plain scissors). You will want to cut them 1"-1 1/2" thickness (your preference).</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I made a kids size 12 in this post. Each flip used 20 strips, although it could've take 4-6 more. If you are making an adult size, you will need more strips.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can also add some beads for a little pizzaz. (I will show you this later)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pony beads are great for threading onto the fabric, but any kind of bead you can sew on.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RXqFC2GwsdI/T4ywM07nk-I/AAAAAAAAAMw/yDE4ftWf2GI/s640/blogger-image--321365599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RXqFC2GwsdI/T4ywM07nk-I/AAAAAAAAAMw/yDE4ftWf2GI/s320/blogger-image--321365599.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-wGi5VffFIr8/T4ywOQ5CudI/AAAAAAAAANQ/PIcQQicvrog/s640/blogger-image-2068627528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-wGi5VffFIr8/T4ywOQ5CudI/AAAAAAAAANQ/PIcQQicvrog/s320/blogger-image-2068627528.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once you have cut them you are ready to put them on. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First. Fold into a loop like so.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y4i42JqOnBk/T4zKK11TBaI/AAAAAAAAANo/27SdpIIeb9A/s640/blogger-image--574770555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y4i42JqOnBk/T4zKK11TBaI/AAAAAAAAANo/27SdpIIeb9A/s320/blogger-image--574770555.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Second. Place under the band.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DVBdRVV9mk0/T4zKLVUSLvI/AAAAAAAAAN4/7piJigIQwmA/s640/blogger-image-766556758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DVBdRVV9mk0/T4zKLVUSLvI/AAAAAAAAAN4/7piJigIQwmA/s320/blogger-image-766556758.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next. Bring the ends over the band towards the loop.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yui5k0MKZSw/T4zKLMFjTCI/AAAAAAAAANw/THrr_dMw7Tg/s640/blogger-image-1099519543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yui5k0MKZSw/T4zKLMFjTCI/AAAAAAAAANw/THrr_dMw7Tg/s320/blogger-image-1099519543.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then. Pull the ends through the loop and pull tight. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Make sure the knot part is on the top, flat part of the band. You may have to work it to get it where you want it. Like I said earlier, thicker bands are tougher.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F--jizOXaXg/T4zKKS6ykZI/AAAAAAAAANg/IQjiIEmrIWk/s640/blogger-image-2066687092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F--jizOXaXg/T4zKKS6ykZI/AAAAAAAAANg/IQjiIEmrIWk/s320/blogger-image-2066687092.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once you have added all your strips it will look like this.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DlcWgFn9F-E/T4ywOt-60rI/AAAAAAAAANY/qbpHVVukPS4/s640/blogger-image--359805246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DlcWgFn9F-E/T4ywOt-60rI/AAAAAAAAANY/qbpHVVukPS4/s320/blogger-image--359805246.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now for the pizzaz.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I wanted to spice these up with some beads. Now on this pair, I used pony beads that I threaded onto the fabric before pulling them through. Don't worry, if you forget to put them on, you can still add them. Just pull one end out of the knot, thread the bead, and pull back through the knot.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PR6baA375j8/T4ywN5zQKQI/AAAAAAAAANA/jyB1SyuFazQ/s640/blogger-image--518432228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PR6baA375j8/T4ywN5zQKQI/AAAAAAAAANA/jyB1SyuFazQ/s320/blogger-image--518432228.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wBHDfXCZSd8/T4ywL1FSzBI/AAAAAAAAAMY/ZHa9sOGze1Q/s640/blogger-image-1242394220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wBHDfXCZSd8/T4ywL1FSzBI/AAAAAAAAAMY/ZHa9sOGze1Q/s320/blogger-image-1242394220.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the second pair, I had a similar bead but these had a much smaller hole. I just used some black thread and sewed them onto the fabric. Not difficult, just a little timely.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bXGRpe0YgAw/T4ywMdck7MI/AAAAAAAAAMo/eidtSJ2IE3k/s640/blogger-image--95268870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bXGRpe0YgAw/T4ywMdck7MI/AAAAAAAAAMo/eidtSJ2IE3k/s320/blogger-image--95268870.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tzXdLKXrO9E/T4ywMI4hljI/AAAAAAAAAMg/C_30bPM_BaY/s640/blogger-image--214404726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tzXdLKXrO9E/T4ywMI4hljI/AAAAAAAAAMg/C_30bPM_BaY/s320/blogger-image--214404726.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, whether you are making them for yourself, or a gift, a whole soccer team or for a great fundraising idea...these are sure to please whoever is wearing them.</span></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-4018403061560691562012-04-16T20:24:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:17:14.273-05:00A pretty place for the birds<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I found this little birdhouse at the thrift store right by my house for a $1.98. I have been wanting to get one and always love a fixer-upper chalenge.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9r6_DWlvC7I/T4yv-cEu3KI/AAAAAAAAAMA/zfY_l8CDclY/s640/blogger-image--662992274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9r6_DWlvC7I/T4yv-cEu3KI/AAAAAAAAAMA/zfY_l8CDclY/s320/blogger-image--662992274.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I took out the fake bird that was glued in the hole. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I then painted the house using acryllic paints (I love the Folk Art brand the best). I did the body turquoise and the roof red. it took several coats to cover since the original was pretty slick and I couldn't find my sand paper to rough it up. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After I painted it, I sealed it with Krylon's spray clear coat. Since its going to go outside, I wanted the paint to be protected from the elements.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then, I just added some little details from </span><a href="http://hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hobby Lobby</span></a><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. I drilled a hole in front for a knob (added a little glue to help secure it). Then I glued on a rusty metal cross on back and butterfly on the top.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It turned out so cute. I love and and so do the birds.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DWb_0hdopEU/T4yv-yBuHVI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/a_TZluhSJwQ/s640/blogger-image-1487888470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DWb_0hdopEU/T4yv-yBuHVI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/a_TZluhSJwQ/s320/blogger-image-1487888470.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HBb663AJFtQ/T4yv93rODCI/AAAAAAAAAL4/jZjbsf2YltE/s640/blogger-image-920297242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HBb663AJFtQ/T4yv93rODCI/AAAAAAAAAL4/jZjbsf2YltE/s320/blogger-image-920297242.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-syBngwuVpFw/T4yv-o4LW1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/j6aZE95iAqI/s640/blogger-image--828028317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-syBngwuVpFw/T4yv-o4LW1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/j6aZE95iAqI/s1600/blogger-image--828028317.jpg" /></span></a></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-78922063889235765942012-04-16T20:15:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:17:29.355-05:00Wedding Card Keeper<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So I needed a creative little gift to give one of my best friends growing up for her wedding. Yes I will also get the traditional pots or pans but I am a crafty person and jsut crave making something special for people.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, I decided on a card holder for her to put all of her wedding cards in.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";"><strong>You will need:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Cardboard or Model board</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">At least 3 different kinds of paper</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Glue</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Ruler or Measuring board (you can see in my photos)</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Scissors or an X-Acto knife</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Ribbon or Lace</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">2 Brads</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Metal Ring that opens</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";">Any kind of details you want to add</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";"><em>*I found all these at </em><a href="http://hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><em>Hobby Lobby</em></span></a><em> </em></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana";"><em>but you can go to any kind of craft & hobby store</em></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Typically, if you are making this for yourself, then use your cards to measure out how big to make it, since I am making it for someone, I tried to find one of the largest cards I had and used that. You will want to make it about a 1/4" bigger on each side.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zgMShGsXvR0/T4yvb8tvcyI/AAAAAAAAAKg/LzKT1stLrQ8/s640/blogger-image--1612841963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zgMShGsXvR0/T4yvb8tvcyI/AAAAAAAAAKg/LzKT1stLrQ8/s200/blogger-image--1612841963.jpg" width="150" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once you have it measured, you will need to cut it out. You can use cardboard or I used thicker board typically used for building models. Its much sturdier but a lot harder to cut.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You will need at least 3 kinds of paper (more if you'd like), I used scrapbooking paper since its a sturdier paper in the colors of her wedding. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Measure out how big you want each piece and then you can glue on. I used just a traditional glue stick, it holds well and you can get the paper covered well. I used a solid purple on the top and a patterned ivory on the bottom for the front and ivory on the top on back. I used a textured ivory for the insides but don't glue the inside back on yet.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-z-EE0X8zNjQ/T4yvdsazA4I/AAAAAAAAALI/xYAx5d-Or_M/s640/blogger-image--654872770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-z-EE0X8zNjQ/T4yvdsazA4I/AAAAAAAAALI/xYAx5d-Or_M/s200/blogger-image--654872770.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YNLbDi0t9B8/T4yvfK7lefI/AAAAAAAAALo/QNEibNpzZbc/s640/blogger-image--1839305016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YNLbDi0t9B8/T4yvfK7lefI/AAAAAAAAALo/QNEibNpzZbc/s200/blogger-image--1839305016.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-O81HUkPP-yE/T4yvd246TeI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ZJi3-k49nSI/s640/blogger-image-1397960605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-O81HUkPP-yE/T4yvd246TeI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ZJi3-k49nSI/s200/blogger-image-1397960605.jpg" width="150" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The reason you held off on the inside back paper is to put on a ribbon with brads. I used a lace but you can use any ribbon you please.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now, with her colors being ivory and the lace I bought was white, I decided to tea stain it. This is a very simple process. Just boil some water. Once it's boiling, use a tea bag to steap the tea. Then just add the lace and stir around. The longer you leave it, the darker it will get.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-womY49rG7U4/T4yve9_ETCI/AAAAAAAAALg/XFBX-Ux5iY8/s640/blogger-image-1825347648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-womY49rG7U4/T4yve9_ETCI/AAAAAAAAALg/XFBX-Ux5iY8/s200/blogger-image-1825347648.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3DAvlQffMxM/T4yvcQbcenI/AAAAAAAAAKw/j9UWjsQ9L80/s640/blogger-image--987016152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3DAvlQffMxM/T4yvcQbcenI/AAAAAAAAAKw/j9UWjsQ9L80/s200/blogger-image--987016152.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The finished product.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QyJRO933XTA/T4yvbZo7clI/AAAAAAAAAKY/hyHNg9gWqSs/s640/blogger-image-57814701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QyJRO933XTA/T4yvbZo7clI/AAAAAAAAAKY/hyHNg9gWqSs/s200/blogger-image-57814701.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You will then use brads to hold the ribbon in place on the back side of the back piece. Once you have done this, you can then glue the inside back paper down.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q6VjFyVFuas/T4yveOLu8kI/AAAAAAAAALY/vcSggGOpdW0/s640/blogger-image-1530753194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q6VjFyVFuas/T4yveOLu8kI/AAAAAAAAALY/vcSggGOpdW0/s200/blogger-image-1530753194.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now you can add whatever details you please. I did an "R" from a chip board letter and scrapbook paper for their last name, a sticky decal from the scrapbooking section, metal numbers for theiir wedding date, and a tag with "wedding cards". Feel free to put whatever your heart desires.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5Gyq3ramJ9U/T4yvcsQXRsI/AAAAAAAAAK4/xdjqajIgFZo/s640/blogger-image--1421323144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5Gyq3ramJ9U/T4yvcsQXRsI/AAAAAAAAAK4/xdjqajIgFZo/s200/blogger-image--1421323144.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iCTydM-Pb34/T4yvb0Na9TI/AAAAAAAAAKo/O1mUlnSDGNg/s640/blogger-image--2083433471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iCTydM-Pb34/T4yvb0Na9TI/AAAAAAAAAKo/O1mUlnSDGNg/s200/blogger-image--2083433471.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m_2OjcvT7Pk/T4yvdRZ9IPI/AAAAAAAAALA/DvBO22eEa-4/s640/blogger-image-614504025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m_2OjcvT7Pk/T4yvdRZ9IPI/AAAAAAAAALA/DvBO22eEa-4/s200/blogger-image-614504025.jpg" width="150" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When you are finished, you will need to add a metal ring in the top left corner so that cards can be added in (sorry I didn't get a photo)</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And enjoy!</span></div>
Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-78916484341707306092012-04-16T19:48:00.000-05:002016-03-13T19:17:41.067-05:00From a Sewing Cabinet to Desk<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So for Christmas, I decided to make my younger cousin Josie a little desk. She fell in love with one at my work but I was not about to spend $400 on a desk. So I went on the hunt for a small desk and chair, scouring thrift stores and little antique shops. I came across an old sewing cabinet and an old piano chair (one where the seat lifts up for storage) at this great little place in OKC </span><a href="http://featherednestmarket.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Feathered Nest</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The desk cost me $30 and the chair $24. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I went to Walmart to get some Glidden paint. I bought 2 pints in a soft ivory satin. These cost a total of about $26. Feel free to choose any color. I chose a white to match the furniture in her room. I also wanted it to be a piece she could grow in to. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You'll first want to wipe down the furniture if its a little old and then lightly sand it. It took me about 2 coats to cover it well. Also, if it is in parts like mine was, I suggest taking everything apart and all the hardware off.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To go below the opening in the desk where the sewing machine would typically go (I wanted her to be able to lift the top and have a little built in drawer that she could store her supplies) I bought a simple tray for about $25 and some modge podge for $5 at </span><a href="http://hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hobby Lobby</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. (Just so you know, most the time they have half the store 1/2 off or you can get a 40% one item coupon on their website every other week.) I then bought some fabric and lining at </span><a href="http://www.fabricresource.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Interior Fabrics</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> for about $16 total for a yard of each. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I folded it to fit the inside of the tray bottom and used a little spray glue (I recommend using another type of glue if you plan to do this for a tray that you can see every detail because its very messy and stuck to the sides.) I then used a modge podge to make a clear sealant. When doing this over fabric it may take 2 or more coats to get a smooth finish. It took 3 for this tray. (I love it so much I want to make one for my living room.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I then added some L brackets from </span><a href="http://www.lowes.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lowe's</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> so that I could attach to the underside of the desk. This can be a little tricky. On this desk it was a tight squeeze and hard to see. I suggest grabbing a flash light and a longer screwdriver.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I then used some Rub-n-Buff to change the hardware from brass to a silver. I ordered mine from </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Amazon</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> for a few bucks. (They have all kinds of colors and 1 tube goes a LONG way.) I then used a little bit of clear coat spray on them to hold the color. (Just FYI...if you don't put a clear coat, it will slowly rub off since its a waxy substance.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then I tackled the seat. I used the same fabric from the desk and the lining I bought. The lining is so I didn't have to rip off what was already on the seat but I didn't want the stripes to show through the lighter parts of the fabric. (Not all fabrics will need a liner.) You will just need a staple gun (sorry I forgot to take pics of the backside.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just pull the middle of one side tight and staple and repat for each side. Then pull the rest around and staple. You will have to play with the corners to get them to look good and not sticking out everywhere.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once your finished, attach everything back and feel free to add some details. Me and my mom added some cute birds on the top and front. We sprayed a little clear coat over the painted details and across the top since she will be doing homework and it will protect it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am very pleased with the finished product and my little cousin LOVED it. So from a $400 inspiration to about a $130 beauty.</span></div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15013158421546960.post-9251445878537472792012-04-16T19:10:00.001-05:002016-03-13T19:17:53.873-05:00A Diaper Cake That Looks So Good You'll Wish It Was Real<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So for my friends baby shower I took my first attempt at creating a diaper cake out of the gifts I bought. In my cake I have:</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Diapers (I bought a 76 pack, you'll want a larger quantity if you want to make a larger cake)</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4 pack of receiving blankets</span></div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A small stuffed plush </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 pack of caps</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5 pack of onsies</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 pack of pacifiers</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rubber bands</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Foam core board</span></div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the "candles":</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Paper</span></div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Scrap booking letters</span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Toothpicks </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The first step is to roll your diapers and wrap a rubber band around them. After a few tries, I found it was easier to roll about five (1 for the center and 4 on either side) then wrap a rubber ban around. I had about 8 on the top tier, about 24 on the middle, and about 45 on the bottom. I put 2 rubber bands around each tier and spaced them out so they looked more even. Otherwise, it was really tight in the center and flared out on the top and bottom. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the base I used a foam core board. It's best to find something the size you want and trace it. I had a drum shade that was the perfect size that I traced the inside. I them used one of the receiving blankets to cover and used dissecting pins on the bottom side to hold the blanket in place. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Around each tier I folded the blanket to the height of the diapers and wrapped around and held them together with paper clips. (The bottom tier the blanket was a little small so hopefully no one peak around the back.) You can also add ribbon around the tiers or use in place of the blankets. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-V-22p7alN_0/Tz7kulLtxBI/AAAAAAAAAIY/ql4G_NLUTYM/s640/blogger-image-148493841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-V-22p7alN_0/Tz7kulLtxBI/AAAAAAAAAIY/ql4G_NLUTYM/s200/blogger-image-148493841.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you can stack your tiers and decorate. I used the onesies as a topper by rolling them so the little embroidery part was in front and stuck them down into the diapers. Be careful not to rip any of the diapers when sticking them down in. I placed my stuffed ladybug at the bottom but i have seen other cakes where they were hugging the top tier that was really adorable. The rest of the items I just draped around the cake. Feel free to let your creativity flow here. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SFnh-nPcelo/Tz7kuP9R3SI/AAAAAAAAAIA/Y_-HXN-aFeE/s640/blogger-image-50263690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SFnh-nPcelo/Tz7kuP9R3SI/AAAAAAAAAIA/Y_-HXN-aFeE/s200/blogger-image-50263690.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-P8l5bUVRj-s/Tz7kupa1rkI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/maO6PP9Z-20/s640/blogger-image-1864435660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-P8l5bUVRj-s/Tz7kupa1rkI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/maO6PP9Z-20/s200/blogger-image-1864435660.jpg" width="150" /></span></a><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qGJ81jB0A38/Tz7kuYcUjkI/AAAAAAAAAII/o1ySvNakhbI/s640/blogger-image--132964908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qGJ81jB0A38/Tz7kuYcUjkI/AAAAAAAAAII/o1ySvNakhbI/s200/blogger-image--132964908.jpg" width="150" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_VcxzDlOqIY/Tz7ktnAMvnI/AAAAAAAAAHw/m76NUwKsNz8/s640/blogger-image-1330083728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_VcxzDlOqIY/Tz7ktnAMvnI/AAAAAAAAAHw/m76NUwKsNz8/s200/blogger-image-1330083728.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the candles, I cut out circles from scrap booking paper and stuck scrap booking letters on them to spell out the baby's name. For the sticks I used toothpicks and actually colored them pink with a sharpie but you can leave them plain if you'd like. Then I just stuck them in around the diapers. Once again, make sure you don't rip the diapers doing this. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you have an amazing diaper cake. You can do these in any color or even to match a theme!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Enjoy!</strong></span></div>
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Amanda Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01383534823941716617noreply@blogger.com0