tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50552813805814431372024-03-17T23:03:40.988-07:00Make The Best of ThingsAnn @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.comBlogger349125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-33493975820631611982023-12-06T08:05:00.000-08:002023-12-06T08:05:35.844-08:00Book Page Christmas DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Most of you have figured out I am a color freak with an obsession </div>
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for turquoise, red and cobalt blue. </div>
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However,</div>
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I also obsess about the beautiful neutral tones of natural muslin and old book pages. </div>
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Especially book pages! Christmas is no exception.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8j8UoCa056bM0mALnyEvlJYX0wWPloYMGJt8298K4-oo-adAXP9PCDYO7_czN8ckhluCDNVjMvXMhm1AbX1Ragc4IS74Dj55RZ9ktnyCPClTms-z5nCB2v4gRT-Qq2Gj0NmUkaVouLc/s1600/book+page+leaf+garland+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8j8UoCa056bM0mALnyEvlJYX0wWPloYMGJt8298K4-oo-adAXP9PCDYO7_czN8ckhluCDNVjMvXMhm1AbX1Ragc4IS74Dj55RZ9ktnyCPClTms-z5nCB2v4gRT-Qq2Gj0NmUkaVouLc/s640/book+page+leaf+garland+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is my bakers rack decked out in more book page covered decor than you can shake a stick at.</div>
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I love the pages with the grey boards and the white milk glass!</div>
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And below you can see a sweet ruffled muslin garland with a mini star </div>
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book page garland, plus book page rosettes and book page covered balls, </div>
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stars and even a pedestal cake stand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z9Hj_11LGUXPwxWwMiTY0nIiGO1P56-EPf4_IIsMAha6Beq2llnAqn4mDXZIjoWxdtZB1lyAwiALJ9xtdzVQkp-e4JDRUG-h3Hw1LrWo1r54Z88T3yQfcVsy7G6QPcqCeOauO27Ubbo/s1600/book+page+christmas+1+-+Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="582" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z9Hj_11LGUXPwxWwMiTY0nIiGO1P56-EPf4_IIsMAha6Beq2llnAqn4mDXZIjoWxdtZB1lyAwiALJ9xtdzVQkp-e4JDRUG-h3Hw1LrWo1r54Z88T3yQfcVsy7G6QPcqCeOauO27Ubbo/s640/book+page+christmas+1+-+Copy.jpg" width="582" /></a></div>
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I will cover practically anything in Mod Podge and old book pages. This way my old beloved books live on in my decor. I also make as much paper art as I can with book pages.</div>
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Per request, I am showing you the big stars covered with book pages in this post.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXO7axDVYpvgkofG_JXaYPZGZFQfeftkJKQNFolcT8TqcvPiWhctOo_zKstBAt_ayIvfNGsCTk0VZg3jgvuX7BXCmWCfne22Dg-xPx0-NwClhTi58IDKSruRp_uKlnKKr5YPZO52ahmvc/s1600/book+page+christmas+6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="608" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXO7axDVYpvgkofG_JXaYPZGZFQfeftkJKQNFolcT8TqcvPiWhctOo_zKstBAt_ayIvfNGsCTk0VZg3jgvuX7BXCmWCfne22Dg-xPx0-NwClhTi58IDKSruRp_uKlnKKr5YPZO52ahmvc/s640/book+page+christmas+6.jpg" width="604" /></a></div>
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I just love how they come out!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhh0pLRRRXrc10bE54zbvPkCMiJGUpbqC4blXfaqVPb00pJ_UsVZ4sPXmM05UoxQOyTwgU9fCUPsnKeJUnFmfo7YIpLYJ_D3_yo9i3tci_YVWoG1JG5k3VC1RLuXj1ckeQ8XF-YuDWZR4/s1600/cardboard+star+1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1195" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhh0pLRRRXrc10bE54zbvPkCMiJGUpbqC4blXfaqVPb00pJ_UsVZ4sPXmM05UoxQOyTwgU9fCUPsnKeJUnFmfo7YIpLYJ_D3_yo9i3tci_YVWoG1JG5k3VC1RLuXj1ckeQ8XF-YuDWZR4/s640/cardboard+star+1.JPG" width="473" /></a></div>
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This is an example of the cardboard star patterns I found online. </div>
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There are oodles I tell ya. LOTS. Google is your friend in this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlynNmx9xT4TeQW_I1V6szNWb6MXe2ZexbZNmt_irvPVJ3KsvdwN1qMYXOKzgcIqnxfvVEiu6D5EyNhb2E9_IpwqbzC8LyEotLZ_Q1-yvaoqwBmvmBW5Fn1-LPgEe3ibB-YmqkG4VB30A/s1600/book+page+christmas+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1600" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlynNmx9xT4TeQW_I1V6szNWb6MXe2ZexbZNmt_irvPVJ3KsvdwN1qMYXOKzgcIqnxfvVEiu6D5EyNhb2E9_IpwqbzC8LyEotLZ_Q1-yvaoqwBmvmBW5Fn1-LPgEe3ibB-YmqkG4VB30A/s640/book+page+christmas+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like the old dictionaries with dense printing for these projects. I've used clean cut pieces with straight lines for this project plus loads of Mod Podge.</div>
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Simple and FAST, folks.</div>
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Once dry, sand the edge paper off with a nail file. Spray with clear acrylic to seal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdHkzrbtn4N8nLvm1tsoFDoSi9zvTn67c4eZlJX3V2ZcDWuQs1XVm0FIptYGBIKzdtFM99l2dlP8Hc6V3f-XJMfLB1WtpGaJIzq7oBhZxSEAVCZeBiCTK6JlSHyHBdbnGGCvofyu9JXg/s1600/book+page+christmas+a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="400" height="457" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdHkzrbtn4N8nLvm1tsoFDoSi9zvTn67c4eZlJX3V2ZcDWuQs1XVm0FIptYGBIKzdtFM99l2dlP8Hc6V3f-XJMfLB1WtpGaJIzq7oBhZxSEAVCZeBiCTK6JlSHyHBdbnGGCvofyu9JXg/s640/book+page+christmas+a.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Book page stars and Christmas balls, oh my!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z9Hj_11LGUXPwxWwMiTY0nIiGO1P56-EPf4_IIsMAha6Beq2llnAqn4mDXZIjoWxdtZB1lyAwiALJ9xtdzVQkp-e4JDRUG-h3Hw1LrWo1r54Z88T3yQfcVsy7G6QPcqCeOauO27Ubbo/s1600/book+page+christmas+1+-+Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z9Hj_11LGUXPwxWwMiTY0nIiGO1P56-EPf4_IIsMAha6Beq2llnAqn4mDXZIjoWxdtZB1lyAwiALJ9xtdzVQkp-e4JDRUG-h3Hw1LrWo1r54Z88T3yQfcVsy7G6QPcqCeOauO27Ubbo/s1600/book+page+christmas+1+-+Copy.jpg" /></a></div>
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There is no end of ideas using book pages and Mod Podge. </div>
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Including the display stand made of a sundae glass, ceramic plate and book pages! </div>
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And pinwheels and stars and, of course, book page stars.</div>
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Sometimes, even for me, a restful neutral look is just what I need during this busy season.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW_wpKVhByRr38Hj36RJY0L1sQ9EZqWXQFdtpnAXrx_VxpM-tEOEHEiePnlcxVakZ8DrNbSkRE92EJY8758cT3bmPKfWao86bqjBaFrlCw2zQOK8mBT_pk-4XXa-A0hyoDixTfq_wnd0/s1600/book+page+ornies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW_wpKVhByRr38Hj36RJY0L1sQ9EZqWXQFdtpnAXrx_VxpM-tEOEHEiePnlcxVakZ8DrNbSkRE92EJY8758cT3bmPKfWao86bqjBaFrlCw2zQOK8mBT_pk-4XXa-A0hyoDixTfq_wnd0/s1600/book+page+ornies.jpg" /></a></div>
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Merry Christmas, friends. Make it a good one!</div>
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<br />Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-78050368824685102722023-12-06T08:03:00.000-08:002023-12-06T08:03:34.394-08:00Sweet Post It Note Flowers Tute<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW_wpKVhByRr38Hj36RJY0L1sQ9EZqWXQFdtpnAXrx_VxpM-tEOEHEiePnlcxVakZ8DrNbSkRE92EJY8758cT3bmPKfWao86bqjBaFrlCw2zQOK8mBT_pk-4XXa-A0hyoDixTfq_wnd0/s1600/book+page+ornies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYW_wpKVhByRr38Hj36RJY0L1sQ9EZqWXQFdtpnAXrx_VxpM-tEOEHEiePnlcxVakZ8DrNbSkRE92EJY8758cT3bmPKfWao86bqjBaFrlCw2zQOK8mBT_pk-4XXa-A0hyoDixTfq_wnd0/s1600/book+page+ornies.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">
Here are the simple book page ornaments we've made for our little tabletop trees. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="389" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544731010637301282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnzKvhYM1F049piZihr1CCKHEJB1IKa3PjIhYa9-ReCvLlL28Pje6zfb2tK4sfRCBMjv8M6im1PJ7xg8cEK-sHDockcjZ1yYk0fd7SWMbiHnLVCnIjjRmxQXZcAQH9N-FzWgQCJu1U8s/w481-h389/post+it+note+flowers+close+up+1.jpg" style="color: #0000ee; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 389px; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px;" width="481" /><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"> I call them Post It Note Flowers because they work up beautifully using a 3" x 3" square of paper,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> so in a leap of naming logic there ya go. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> They are really origami kusadama flowers and they've been around forever.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I'll give you a link to an origami website at the end of this post in case my instructions lead you hopelessly astray. ; 0 )</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojyU1iUIcl9aJIVDJ_1WtOWWrbjhq6LnSxeDFdAxNRiR_yxw0yKmG_xSkytGSbMQzdFY1MlTaD6HJTMq9bdVEJz1fHVEirCV_YipX1XG0T3-xt3TAq9dh7Xvq_aYQXSuFEYigZmDfhfg/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+017.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544727427887402146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojyU1iUIcl9aJIVDJ_1WtOWWrbjhq6LnSxeDFdAxNRiR_yxw0yKmG_xSkytGSbMQzdFY1MlTaD6HJTMq9bdVEJz1fHVEirCV_YipX1XG0T3-xt3TAq9dh7Xvq_aYQXSuFEYigZmDfhfg/s400/flowers+from+post+it+notes+017.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 355px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a> Start with a post it note or any size of paper as long as it is perfectly square. <div><br /></div><div> IF YOU USE post it notes, you will start with the gummy side at the bottom right</div><div> and gently separate the layers if they become stuck.</div><div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5ZA0QIRID0poe5vVd1NgX5B6p2WLH1-PRkX_3HPD58muiCVrVzCZz_iPpSpUi2uSAsbnArxVvjfNDNFO3KLTl4usvvMhrVT3KX-FlAgjldO3QUw7LVDJH34dQJphPpXziV-ZZcI83u8/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+7.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544726959065333218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5ZA0QIRID0poe5vVd1NgX5B6p2WLH1-PRkX_3HPD58muiCVrVzCZz_iPpSpUi2uSAsbnArxVvjfNDNFO3KLTl4usvvMhrVT3KX-FlAgjldO3QUw7LVDJH34dQJphPpXziV-ZZcI83u8/s400/flowers+from+post+it+notes+7.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 175px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 612px;" /></a>Fold bottom to top, then sides in to form a diamond, then fold each side out from the middle.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUszGnYLvQB121WaRoyZGhvyAaCOHJG6xrieQ8tAevXlMkKiK9tgf7m1_VnLWxY0rrOEBupjqacwgE1glKvYuSYLrxJYbV0B5VlDkgao37ZJN53vwWHYW2B2ZmwSv_fQayDxxrs4WxDQ/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725130919943986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUszGnYLvQB121WaRoyZGhvyAaCOHJG6xrieQ8tAevXlMkKiK9tgf7m1_VnLWxY0rrOEBupjqacwgE1glKvYuSYLrxJYbV0B5VlDkgao37ZJN53vwWHYW2B2ZmwSv_fQayDxxrs4WxDQ/s400/flowers+from+post+it+notes+6.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 613px;" /></a>Unfold each side "wing" so it looks like a kite, then fold the top of these side kites inwards so now you will have a middle kite shape with matching side triangles. Fold each triangle once inwards.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjcoHP_9FtjiVC5lHoEAb7koTWKXDCBeTdOoLtrDZ3P2nWVXXup-ztCaJyTEw8H3ETxyF7xv75VXpt3nq-oIo85opJoJJD2xBABk0a-r-gIuZy3j5FjkerflXNR54MhAYX-hiSTbqPvA/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+5.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725560890325618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjcoHP_9FtjiVC5lHoEAb7koTWKXDCBeTdOoLtrDZ3P2nWVXXup-ztCaJyTEw8H3ETxyF7xv75VXpt3nq-oIo85opJoJJD2xBABk0a-r-gIuZy3j5FjkerflXNR54MhAYX-hiSTbqPvA/s400/flowers+from+post+it+notes+5.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 189px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 613px;" /></a> Roll into a cone and hot glue the two folded sides in the middle. </div><div> You need at least five to form a flower shape, tho I have seen them with more. </div><div> Hot glue all the cones together and don't worry if you have a little gap in the center, </div><div> even real flowers have a little opening in their middle.</div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnzKvhYM1F049piZihr1CCKHEJB1IKa3PjIhYa9-ReCvLlL28Pje6zfb2tK4sfRCBMjv8M6im1PJ7xg8cEK-sHDockcjZ1yYk0fd7SWMbiHnLVCnIjjRmxQXZcAQH9N-FzWgQCJu1U8s/s1600/post+it+note+flowers+close+up+1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="389" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544731010637301282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnzKvhYM1F049piZihr1CCKHEJB1IKa3PjIhYa9-ReCvLlL28Pje6zfb2tK4sfRCBMjv8M6im1PJ7xg8cEK-sHDockcjZ1yYk0fd7SWMbiHnLVCnIjjRmxQXZcAQH9N-FzWgQCJu1U8s/w481-h389/post+it+note+flowers+close+up+1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 389px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" width="481" /></a><br />
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We've made ours out of vintage dictionary pages to go along with our simple white Christmas theme.<br />
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Here is a link to a real origami website with great instructions and lots of samples for these pretty flowers...<br />
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<a href="http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/origami_kusadama_flowers">http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/origami_kusadama_flowers</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNh2XxykTl4zMVjMx5ZXLIAbvt4Xd9JAydEvUC2K4t426K6OpE2mEbQkk8mTEqpmD6J8KrjD1ulHYOsEPth3zJwVZNmGHKikAmXiqQwKoDpbpa2tB7qS5wf_0xUjlfkjtEZuUjEW5cm0w/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+017.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TLni1EXBs5aDfP7YdvhSv6c4nNhLecJnUuNbpovBAbqByeSsVeaY0J0BNzlkBsAYmS4avoAUtOojVW5OmhhvpHO2BIASd0V_kROkT1hcfcPkJ2wBDmj442WXxlx5zX9D6XO7-tgelJk/s1600/flowers+from+post+it+notes+014.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a></div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-881448843679575872023-12-06T07:40:00.000-08:002023-12-06T07:40:18.830-08:00Wintry Snowflake Chandelier-Dollar Store Decor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />!!!!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitHtuE-AV7hM1dMW8oRqW3xL4TQmKy5ASF50qVqtd2wl5weiP8gEu-MgUaOatY45WifO_SEzow_Hv6IKVs3wyktkalx1Faw-u01Tm5U-tmmCfI6WcQ-_i4zsSMXpgH6PW_dR0yQG0o5cqqKhnkQzeO5aOKc4qu_NH10U3lqURU4SjY730oUYXl37W8HXA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1207" height="459" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitHtuE-AV7hM1dMW8oRqW3xL4TQmKy5ASF50qVqtd2wl5weiP8gEu-MgUaOatY45WifO_SEzow_Hv6IKVs3wyktkalx1Faw-u01Tm5U-tmmCfI6WcQ-_i4zsSMXpgH6PW_dR0yQG0o5cqqKhnkQzeO5aOKc4qu_NH10U3lqURU4SjY730oUYXl37W8HXA=w497-h459" width="497" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay, here is the early 90's brass and glass chandelier in my dining room. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll give you a moment to bask in fond nostalgia.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharxPGJQ4fVrWraDH-kNNymbzKW0keyNXdNyZWqEWkLyS0aXi4NzFWMpF1fGtEehyphenhyphen63AyaRUpcVobEmorf1HWvpeScDRwz0nZitxmX45jfU50AGhX6xOEss5p4z7AeUdG5iIzxdYgcBuc/s1600/plain+chandelier+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharxPGJQ4fVrWraDH-kNNymbzKW0keyNXdNyZWqEWkLyS0aXi4NzFWMpF1fGtEehyphenhyphen63AyaRUpcVobEmorf1HWvpeScDRwz0nZitxmX45jfU50AGhX6xOEss5p4z7AeUdG5iIzxdYgcBuc/s1600/plain+chandelier+1.jpg" width="378" /></a></div>
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Yeah, well, we're still living with this chandelier until I find exactly the right fixture and can wave a big ol' bag o' money at it, so right there it is going to stay. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's just so....brassy and perfectly functional and by the way, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Welding Man loves it just the way it is! </div>
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So here are a couple of my ideas for coping with it's golden funkiness each season. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dollar Store to the rescue! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61usJW5KoqVCAJDhPgY8ery8VuKXbPzPsgurKqWXm1xyzGh6Sc5rsJ3lODCsRw9wPOt1Htw_ujgehGBUFjY99wELUdaVR-n2HAgC_bnfJYUXPsa30uNCjo1lVaQa5yDThtcH2HiIybU8/s1600/martha+stewart+autumn+chandelier.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61usJW5KoqVCAJDhPgY8ery8VuKXbPzPsgurKqWXm1xyzGh6Sc5rsJ3lODCsRw9wPOt1Htw_ujgehGBUFjY99wELUdaVR-n2HAgC_bnfJYUXPsa30uNCjo1lVaQa5yDThtcH2HiIybU8/s1600/martha+stewart+autumn+chandelier.jpg" width="507" /></a></div>
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Years ago I saw Martha Stewart's pretty hanging autumn wreath light and it stuck with me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> So in October I decided to make my own version with several autumn leaf garlands around </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and around and around my light's brassy framework but</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> without the candlelit mini pumpkins.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We tried it with and without the glass panes and the glass just </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">gave it some extra shine at night, so they stayed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjpHqGd6lWv0ydXOv-v95bdAW5gxZ4UJ1SazIk5XZKp5_eQHMjZDD2nF9mkCycp81a30sQUnUQLHepfzl4qh4UovZpd8bpJvV753d7kGsO04ZSbp7B4-gK3UboM8y6iCHtf8si7IHbK4/s1600/autumn+chandelier+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjpHqGd6lWv0ydXOv-v95bdAW5gxZ4UJ1SazIk5XZKp5_eQHMjZDD2nF9mkCycp81a30sQUnUQLHepfzl4qh4UovZpd8bpJvV753d7kGsO04ZSbp7B4-gK3UboM8y6iCHtf8si7IHbK4/s1600/autumn+chandelier+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ooh! I like it alot and it is a sure sign of Autumn in my house.</div>
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Come Christmas time and wintry weather,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I hit my stash of Dollar Store decorations again and found </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">many different styles and sizes of snowflakes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We took off the glass panes and hung the snowflakes willy nilly,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> just like they would be in a blustery winter storm.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCz9ifiMhxikB1xYcufSEqpXNoALWX7pcXn8cII5xeKbreC-sbGb7E3URkmAbw-Gf1239QZvdZ2eOH-OV8Es5GPg3kYm6i4cXhql7gRs4tmD5TV_lqE0eAuifq2Ryyzk1aYipO_iiQN3k/s1600/unlit+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCz9ifiMhxikB1xYcufSEqpXNoALWX7pcXn8cII5xeKbreC-sbGb7E3URkmAbw-Gf1239QZvdZ2eOH-OV8Es5GPg3kYm6i4cXhql7gRs4tmD5TV_lqE0eAuifq2Ryyzk1aYipO_iiQN3k/s1600/unlit+1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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With just a few icicle strands here and there and oooh! I like this alot, too! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even in the daytime in natural light the</div><div style="text-align: center;"> layered textures of silver, white, and glittery gold and </div><div style="text-align: center;">silver pack a beautiful festive punch.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Even The Welding Man, who does not like it when I mess with "his" light, thinks that this is very pretty!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkqZB6RUKK6lQRxsPNoOr_OXCexNWVqXNpyTv5vAnHnAeRR0eE12oPu8wRtyx_RYnLG6sdkWdade-BkP_rRp2-bo1jnaQelnAPA2QLlzPFDUOuM7TXPQiSRAlzgFQti1hUmT-_dc1yDc/s1600/unlit+2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0glKxfDwIJTfDg8cIWhFpAsR6iB_GoAJur-lS6KKqvipshXHEln9-YtWfSQeRPHP85jmO80E0osY6BjQ5cvKgu5lxeGpYtpD3GbyaAQ6SCI__HqhfuTHsq5-1F72kjpy8pTW2qNERug/s1600/unlit+chandelier+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0glKxfDwIJTfDg8cIWhFpAsR6iB_GoAJur-lS6KKqvipshXHEln9-YtWfSQeRPHP85jmO80E0osY6BjQ5cvKgu5lxeGpYtpD3GbyaAQ6SCI__HqhfuTHsq5-1F72kjpy8pTW2qNERug/s1600/unlit+chandelier+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Note-If you hang enough Dollar Store snowflakes on a brass light fixture you can mostly hide it's golden shininess!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIXsQOk2HfAO4WmD1HKlI-QR4WNCj9a-gKzBYQfNV-GSXqZk9GR5An3T5odzT7u_M9p15NYwA7YDgkKxfCAhT5LQODaCMX6tc81Feu9piH85y4wIDdgLG5RAUQEdBvlOuyRj9T2bW8cA/s1600/lit+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIXsQOk2HfAO4WmD1HKlI-QR4WNCj9a-gKzBYQfNV-GSXqZk9GR5An3T5odzT7u_M9p15NYwA7YDgkKxfCAhT5LQODaCMX6tc81Feu9piH85y4wIDdgLG5RAUQEdBvlOuyRj9T2bW8cA/s1600/lit+1.jpg" width="531" /></a></div>
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And kapow! Here she is all lit up! She is dazzling!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvBN9adOv67pZ4r2MAIZf1UfCZnbihu91iEEb0Hf6ziaPttL4FpnLqtaVCKj8rVU2ilesZqWyJnVTCjKftBQA8uq0iMUzfns-sto0TcQBMHsiJhwcXz_0oUS9YT3cI3G8oabtD_AYKEA/s1600/lit+2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvBN9adOv67pZ4r2MAIZf1UfCZnbihu91iEEb0Hf6ziaPttL4FpnLqtaVCKj8rVU2ilesZqWyJnVTCjKftBQA8uq0iMUzfns-sto0TcQBMHsiJhwcXz_0oUS9YT3cI3G8oabtD_AYKEA/s1600/lit+2.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUa8bHvLjnE5vIAgjEqGGfqWIv0AQMfcbYJ6oZCy9xhnWlEnm18JZw3-zI2UKlDi33CZPJHBHTjGFb-s_nFD6jBLvaf-Ahj6Aec2abfQFyPRvIouwNvZtxmCUxF3ZbA42w5S5h6r1tuxc/s1600/lit+4.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUa8bHvLjnE5vIAgjEqGGfqWIv0AQMfcbYJ6oZCy9xhnWlEnm18JZw3-zI2UKlDi33CZPJHBHTjGFb-s_nFD6jBLvaf-Ahj6Aec2abfQFyPRvIouwNvZtxmCUxF3ZbA42w5S5h6r1tuxc/s1600/lit+4.jpg" width="245" /></a><br />
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Ooh aah! So pretty! And with the cold, wet, rainy, snowy winter weather hanging on, I'm leaving these snowflakes on my chandelier at least until Easter!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8reMRRUb7MqzMFRkRhB-rj6LGVzRX0sPhnxcqPAi9YB2xmeVMu8o_iRarCbGhaiVNfsHYmTPC17C-V1LzVpqoERxyKnLWE74NC7L7xzjkvdTS6kIegw0ODLDTwdKQU6Liz5hJ6eGPVjg/s1600/snowflake+chandelier+collage+correct+text.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="403" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8reMRRUb7MqzMFRkRhB-rj6LGVzRX0sPhnxcqPAi9YB2xmeVMu8o_iRarCbGhaiVNfsHYmTPC17C-V1LzVpqoERxyKnLWE74NC7L7xzjkvdTS6kIegw0ODLDTwdKQU6Liz5hJ6eGPVjg/s1600/snowflake+chandelier+collage+correct+text.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Which version is better? Daytime or night time? I like them both but the daytime </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">chandy looks more wintry to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Go figure.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">The Welding Man will be glad to know I won't be replacing his chandelier anytime soon. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But I can sure mess with it and make it pretty, can't I? </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">And maybe I'll learn to appreciate it's brassy vintagey vibe? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We'll just have to wait and see, lol!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUa8bHvLjnE5vIAgjEqGGfqWIv0AQMfcbYJ6oZCy9xhnWlEnm18JZw3-zI2UKlDi33CZPJHBHTjGFb-s_nFD6jBLvaf-Ahj6Aec2abfQFyPRvIouwNvZtxmCUxF3ZbA42w5S5h6r1tuxc/s1600/lit+4.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-70212717134269162023-12-04T09:22:00.000-08:002023-12-04T09:22:51.170-08:00Stinkin' Cute Wine Cork Reindeer DIY<br />
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<i><b><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></b></i><br />
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Here is an oldie from 2012, but it's a goodie and one of my top Pins on Pinterest ever. </div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px;">They've even been featured in an annual Sainsbury's Christmas flyer in England!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7OFHxcEEwqg_wcVjfjOqZ8m1xxtfoz5E2iluaD1WAOlJP3Ga9SL3RFyiSUDBMxK6l7T4QBmFLz-jEFSHrUMEQcq4h27VZsnu5ZJBn4R7D8oC3NqqCwKpTmwOmKRkBJXAUUkJaXrNSxk/s1600/Wine+cork+reindeer+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7OFHxcEEwqg_wcVjfjOqZ8m1xxtfoz5E2iluaD1WAOlJP3Ga9SL3RFyiSUDBMxK6l7T4QBmFLz-jEFSHrUMEQcq4h27VZsnu5ZJBn4R7D8oC3NqqCwKpTmwOmKRkBJXAUUkJaXrNSxk/s640/Wine+cork+reindeer+1.jpg" width="553" /></a></div>
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Look! A tiny reindeer made from wine corks and twigs for your Holiday decor!</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8EfM3kcrfw5Fcn5Plcxuqs_Y6JbWuN3PP7g7Df7WdLsSm4y89Wg21fVNB4AfWtCAwSgjuzY_1HWHgecST2YashnAFS4DOHElRWtDS4S6wN7fnRY-4CVB0Zmdb0XhI-S8BR0xb-cNjOO7qS_2-ADRwq0i2Ifk6sbAFZWTfwaT6fZ-FzscivvtR07zKVk/s1512/wine%20cork%20reindeer%204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="1512" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8EfM3kcrfw5Fcn5Plcxuqs_Y6JbWuN3PP7g7Df7WdLsSm4y89Wg21fVNB4AfWtCAwSgjuzY_1HWHgecST2YashnAFS4DOHElRWtDS4S6wN7fnRY-4CVB0Zmdb0XhI-S8BR0xb-cNjOO7qS_2-ADRwq0i2Ifk6sbAFZWTfwaT6fZ-FzscivvtR07zKVk/w523-h257/wine%20cork%20reindeer%204.jpg" width="523" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
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If you accumulate a lot of wine corks or keep running across them at yard sales and thrift stores, here's a nifty little project for the holidays that is so stinkin' cute and sort of easy, plus cheap. I make these little guys to go with my Santa dolls and while making them today I went ahead and took pictures of the process.<br />
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Here he is surrounded by the supplies for his creation. Wine corks, little twigs (some with forks) and round headed pins. You will also need a tool for cutting like a razor craft knife and wire cutters.</div>
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Punch four leg holes at a slight outward angle in the bottom of one cork for the twig legs. Use a nail or ice pick or whatever gives you the right size holes. The holes need only be about 1/4" deep. Cut four sorta matching twigs for the legs, about 2" long, using a razor knife or wire cutters like those shown.</div>
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Put a bit of hot glue in the hole or on the twigs and insert the twigs into the holes. You can press the sticks in with gentle pressure against your work surface or use a pair of pliers. Stand the body up and if any leg is out of whack trim it JUST A LITTLE with a knife or the wire cutters. If you take off too much you'll have to trim the other legs and then the first leg again and it will only end in tears, trust me on this.</div>
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BUT, if this happens you can use a heat gun or blow dryer to soften the glue and remove the sticks so you can start over with 4 new twig legs.</div>
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If your chosen head cork is too large, trim one end straight off with a razor knife til the proportion seems right. Do the same same punch-holes-trim-twigs-glue-in-holes for the tiny forked antlers and the neck twig. Notice the neck twig is angled, so punch your holes with that in mind.</div>
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Look! Teeny tiny super cute wine cork reindeer!</div>
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LOVE these little guys!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93V3AP4onZWZafoQTzXfy0dQriZBaaz7Wav35BqCyIfLczjlBahLxBc1fqmaMaK2Qad85L5ODdT1R4e3tkMLqng2K92xoswZEhrDXowbzXfp1oF1EdFJgwfJy-gn9KqwCGeCdVHDrip4/s1600/Wine+cork+reindeer+015.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93V3AP4onZWZafoQTzXfy0dQriZBaaz7Wav35BqCyIfLczjlBahLxBc1fqmaMaK2Qad85L5ODdT1R4e3tkMLqng2K92xoswZEhrDXowbzXfp1oF1EdFJgwfJy-gn9KqwCGeCdVHDrip4/s320/Wine+cork+reindeer+015.jpg" /></a></div>
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But wait, what are the push pins for? This little guy needs a red nose, of course. I snipped the pin off short then painted the ball bright red.</div>
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Then I added a bit of tiny green tinsel around his neck. Perfect. You can add more tiny trims like the bow on his brother in the top pic, or a tiny star, or a little bell.<br />
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How cute would these be on your mantel or even marching across your desktop at work? And with just a bit of twine or fishing line in a loop and hot glued to his back, you have a cute tree ornament. They are not strong enough to be used as toys but for your Christmas decor, what could be easier or cuter? And now you have a nifty project to use all those wine corks you have in that glass jar!<br />
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Try it, you'll like it and be sure to enjoy yourself. Every time I make one of these little guys they make me smile. You will smile, too!</div>
Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-8326780306753306622023-12-04T09:08:00.000-08:002023-12-04T09:08:50.314-08:00DIY Wood Stars for Christmas and All Year!<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's a neat gift idea that comes together so quickly, I was kicking myself for not thinking of it sooner.</div>
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I wanted to give a hand made Christmas item for each family on my list. What to do? I needed a dozen of them and I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg on the supplies.</div>
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I bought this box of wood slats for way less than $10. Thank you, Feed Store brothers!!</div>
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I brought the wood home and proceeded to make primitive Christmas stars!</div>
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The wood slats are 20" long. Perfect size for a star and easy to work with. </div>
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Each star takes 5 pieces of equal length. Paint the wood first then dry brush with black if you want a bit of a grungy primitive look. Otherwise leave the finish natural.</div>
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We used our handy dandy air gun stapler to fasten the joints, then bent the staples over on the back side for added stability. Touch up with paint or wrap with Dollar Store jute twine secured with hot glue. We did them with and without twine. </div>
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You can leave them plain OR you can crash your stash of Christmas decor, which is what I did. Experiment with your placement then hot glue each piece in place. </div>
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Then comes the FUN PART!</div>
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I used faux poinsettias in two sizes, fake greenery, wired tinsel, ribbon, small pine cones, glittered branches, plastic decor balls in several sizes and anything else I could lay my hands on. </div>
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Lots of blues!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLTnxTYleM6A9AeH5yJe8G-guPOR_lLZ1lMVbfjrnltG-mcRsrrbdYGaKCRThf_ANsZa9K0yMlOrSgymSC9Ln-5_Nj2-ybFYGkqDKpQcU29N6cfEfaypWgIR6iica9kQ5YlzVdcrJ24k/s1600/small+star+7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1533" data-original-width="1600" height="611" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLTnxTYleM6A9AeH5yJe8G-guPOR_lLZ1lMVbfjrnltG-mcRsrrbdYGaKCRThf_ANsZa9K0yMlOrSgymSC9Ln-5_Nj2-ybFYGkqDKpQcU29N6cfEfaypWgIR6iica9kQ5YlzVdcrJ24k/s640/small+star+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lots of ribbons and twine wrapped joints.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmwo5ON0sUKAz8IVpvf6exmaqALIdmi7TP-xQHDWgP0hnx8QoaGoxkjaYycWUtk4glM61swg-_bsp1YROAYAHv4L72a4nnoYRPICTCa0W-O76EZjcgmFkQpWtHkFEYDyDthwM1IkROvw/s1600/small+star+5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmwo5ON0sUKAz8IVpvf6exmaqALIdmi7TP-xQHDWgP0hnx8QoaGoxkjaYycWUtk4glM61swg-_bsp1YROAYAHv4L72a4nnoYRPICTCa0W-O76EZjcgmFkQpWtHkFEYDyDthwM1IkROvw/s640/small+star+5.jpg" width="521" /></a></div>
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Here's the biggest star we made out of longer grade stakes.</div>
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36" across for the entry wall at my grand kids' new house. We twine wrapped the joints</div>
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on this big one and sealed it with clear acrylic spray for outdoor use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h-DhJFPxBaWqCLdrn4HK9hryUmxnXhJhH8jA_JEZEw2QIxSVCgclrGwEPxGFuTRa40q2BMfINpg_lmMAp-tweNezwhvxqeWdE-RV6yOBBi083wMLCcv64XyE-klRR2aMnpL9T0OBQH4/s1600/20181212_134339.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1048" data-original-width="1600" height="417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h-DhJFPxBaWqCLdrn4HK9hryUmxnXhJhH8jA_JEZEw2QIxSVCgclrGwEPxGFuTRa40q2BMfINpg_lmMAp-tweNezwhvxqeWdE-RV6yOBBi083wMLCcv64XyE-klRR2aMnpL9T0OBQH4/s640/20181212_134339.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I LOVE the way these came out! </div>
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And guess what? They're a hit with the families, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1ywbZM2MtuImaT_WWMTjJLOCBnQxtSrbg1qjVV5w8K6-oS5EJsUVPLVMSrOAF6gckb68s_sFtI1h4v_wNQuNHtSISMk4Jcg3MFwb_0mYAOg9f3STqX9Wh4FhkmOHs3HQKlrICUKHg-I/s1600/20181209_100245.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1350" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1ywbZM2MtuImaT_WWMTjJLOCBnQxtSrbg1qjVV5w8K6-oS5EJsUVPLVMSrOAF6gckb68s_sFtI1h4v_wNQuNHtSISMk4Jcg3MFwb_0mYAOg9f3STqX9Wh4FhkmOHs3HQKlrICUKHg-I/s640/20181209_100245.jpg" width="538" /></a></div>
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And here's the one we kept for our own house.</div>
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It's on the baker's rack I decorate every year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcMz-xiJykNvQd0p3hm0x_HsjzFxZO-GQjirhQUNaKEWQeHDWQPMWXRC3irzev9DHsN_s3wM0iMXKFjLtZhVyyP0TxA7m9Elcctg0KjXKlWSKp1yXLBr4cCWjhephKj0HDuFuLIOV1wc/s1600/20181230_132355.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="999" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcMz-xiJykNvQd0p3hm0x_HsjzFxZO-GQjirhQUNaKEWQeHDWQPMWXRC3irzev9DHsN_s3wM0iMXKFjLtZhVyyP0TxA7m9Elcctg0KjXKlWSKp1yXLBr4cCWjhephKj0HDuFuLIOV1wc/s640/20181230_132355.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
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We even made some cooking themed stars for the Lunch Ladies at the school kitchen.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXdYwo_EHtG_S-ZxmZbqyFeWYmKLDjxHjL01fPY5zn_9VDPYeQQo_lQDQvKwCkvEK_ovdYCxxvM9xAwBfncz7gtURDFkUtrBiS5osN-rA1EPlywoiIuREJ08gUuh4AR4A1CmXGv5xvd4/s1600/20181220_083344.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1455" data-original-width="1600" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXdYwo_EHtG_S-ZxmZbqyFeWYmKLDjxHjL01fPY5zn_9VDPYeQQo_lQDQvKwCkvEK_ovdYCxxvM9xAwBfncz7gtURDFkUtrBiS5osN-rA1EPlywoiIuREJ08gUuh4AR4A1CmXGv5xvd4/s640/20181220_083344.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I'm kicking around ideas for decorating Patriotic Americana stars for Fourth of July....burlap and sunflower stars for my summertime porch.....autumn leaves and branches for fall....then back to Christmas with snowflakes, white poinsettias and silver branches.</div>
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I'm sure I'll be posting more about these stars. Stay tuned!</div>
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Materials used for each star-</div>
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five wood pieces of equal length</div>
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acrylic craft paint your choice of color</div>
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staples or nails to fasten the wood</div>
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hot glue</div>
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twine</div>
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misc. small Christmas decor items</div>
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There you go!</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-54826517339351065592023-05-22T09:45:00.000-07:002023-05-22T09:45:46.536-07:00Firewood Log Succulent Planter<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBm7Mlqz-mboMOAisIcQm8GAgkqo9C7kF2M_abyFVkkLUPMMBo7OcExCV4ut1H9DGyGhhU-f1BQglrFxv00cnGthF0u4wQ_31VaT-WPVCVr01HWldTA_Dpqs2YHEIZ12P-lfrVKpkBETGczOW8E1vleu2lY0s5WJrrhOP21MtTgHFzOWOhJxOwkgyf" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="300" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBm7Mlqz-mboMOAisIcQm8GAgkqo9C7kF2M_abyFVkkLUPMMBo7OcExCV4ut1H9DGyGhhU-f1BQglrFxv00cnGthF0u4wQ_31VaT-WPVCVr01HWldTA_Dpqs2YHEIZ12P-lfrVKpkBETGczOW8E1vleu2lY0s5WJrrhOP21MtTgHFzOWOhJxOwkgyf=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br />I made this out of a fire wood log from the building supply!<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">The natural wood and the greens of the succulents are a perfect match, and it couldn't have been easier.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I am always on the lookout for unusual planters for my gardens.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This stack of birch fire wood at the local Lowe's caught my eye and I bought two.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iDZRoUKCZIPobQI8NXe4hwhHyh6czhrSzWnvnN1z_AaiosJDq89LqMjdbuXCrKqtho7O7OR_2jXpf_fCb9fe1UNuChTHXE3BMD3GsHZjUrhM7vNs2_AGtt2fxa2ZOy7ZZ2V82nEFIc8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="650" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iDZRoUKCZIPobQI8NXe4hwhHyh6czhrSzWnvnN1z_AaiosJDq89LqMjdbuXCrKqtho7O7OR_2jXpf_fCb9fe1UNuChTHXE3BMD3GsHZjUrhM7vNs2_AGtt2fxa2ZOy7ZZ2V82nEFIc8/w400-h387/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A few hours labor with a chisel, a hammer and even a hatchet gave me a log</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">with a planting hole in the middle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfaS_yyKQalYQTjBAagdUNqUmKXKgNuX23lYA9XvMYbRW92SescV2P3y5FWkh5tlpFAOx7am_ETNqG-BNgj7foQaSXDMSRRE-Z-lSd2d5hfkRGFvWrp4u5jdNcCulL9tUL-a7corQkKo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="800" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfaS_yyKQalYQTjBAagdUNqUmKXKgNuX23lYA9XvMYbRW92SescV2P3y5FWkh5tlpFAOx7am_ETNqG-BNgj7foQaSXDMSRRE-Z-lSd2d5hfkRGFvWrp4u5jdNcCulL9tUL-a7corQkKo/w400-h346/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I screwed a plastic plate to the bottom as a water catcher then filled the </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">hole up with gravel on bottom and succulent planter mix on top.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then I shopped my garden succulents for just the right mix of plants to put</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">in this rustic planter. It is NOT ordinary,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and I love it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7lscwX9WyluQCFDb3SUUqmN2euodmMIWWC9dXmEziBBV1oqA_CbUqO1fjN2oJncMh3t-28uLiKnzh7p7KphLh_wnL0vWIwbmTZsgrqRfjg2FoyBf6qcWETL9srPJ8kJ_8OwFkJHn79c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="745" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7lscwX9WyluQCFDb3SUUqmN2euodmMIWWC9dXmEziBBV1oqA_CbUqO1fjN2oJncMh3t-28uLiKnzh7p7KphLh_wnL0vWIwbmTZsgrqRfjg2FoyBf6qcWETL9srPJ8kJ_8OwFkJHn79c/w536-h640/image.png" width="536" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I added a few stones and gravel to the top then took about a thousand photos.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This project makes me smile and smile. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09OizOmdBkyVJ0C4A0rzzl35UujUNxEW1tmUrpgxFRKsS2tujw7Y84PrGOdpAru_tzZYNH5QWwUAGUsS1w2n0E-jai9JHJl2iP4c0v43Ja9ktWPTOEnXhJKcGyDIEKEcJNiMVogFfhu8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="780" data-original-width="780" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09OizOmdBkyVJ0C4A0rzzl35UujUNxEW1tmUrpgxFRKsS2tujw7Y84PrGOdpAru_tzZYNH5QWwUAGUsS1w2n0E-jai9JHJl2iP4c0v43Ja9ktWPTOEnXhJKcGyDIEKEcJNiMVogFfhu8/w640-h640/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I stapled landscape felt to the bottom of the log </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and then screwed on a plastic charger plate from Dollar Tree.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As you can see, it turned out extremely well!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time to make the second one!<br /><br /></div><br /></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /></div><br /><p></p>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-61146966230791790342022-02-14T00:00:00.001-08:002022-02-14T11:08:08.236-08:00Pretty Faux Wood Grain Glass Table Top? Yes, Please!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have this corner on our front deck that needed a convenient table and I also wanted</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> it to be pretty. Here is what we came up with and made in one afternoon and, as usual, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">we did it without spending a ton of money. </div>
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In fact, we already had everything we needed on hand so it was basically FREE.</div>
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Confetti goes here!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFlwhfNYE48t_yYiGRlmkuoGosxwiTi-mM4_01lsyopzB0jcodEeOZmrnBOuyT8QiVcu3ttVLioHOBjH3CHZi95Fqs1TAB3hEC2WZVqjPafpiTxLNwJgt7Ng6vHzXX_Ar0VA1qVlAo0k/s1600/glass+table+end+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="1600" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFlwhfNYE48t_yYiGRlmkuoGosxwiTi-mM4_01lsyopzB0jcodEeOZmrnBOuyT8QiVcu3ttVLioHOBjH3CHZi95Fqs1TAB3hEC2WZVqjPafpiTxLNwJgt7Ng6vHzXX_Ar0VA1qVlAo0k/s640/glass+table+end+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ooh ahh! It turned out even better than I pictured!</div>
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Here is the DIY for this fun project...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQkNNKIKBDQDJFa3J8bgxlWgmP6xq3CaFkc5ffOdKeMYo9hyIdPBp932yUwwpKWLTlg7XA3Nij-5ceRarbTWTxajc8I6_Au0T5zVUGwVG4fDGhtvzHgK1779Vx_XqPScbypp4xCQ4moA/s1600/glass+table+start.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQkNNKIKBDQDJFa3J8bgxlWgmP6xq3CaFkc5ffOdKeMYo9hyIdPBp932yUwwpKWLTlg7XA3Nij-5ceRarbTWTxajc8I6_Au0T5zVUGwVG4fDGhtvzHgK1779Vx_XqPScbypp4xCQ4moA/s640/glass+table+start.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A friend had given me two round patio table replacement glass circles. </div>
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This is the bigger one at 36" diameter.</div>
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For the base we used a nursery tree pot 24" in diameter given to us by our neighbors.</div>
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I scrubbed the glass and the pot with a soap pad and rinsed them thoroughly.</div>
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I spray painted the planter with flat black spray paint.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpChIiYkQAliiWmN8rIMN_spDrDeYCOG_izLuR3bOI2-vYEjVY-Y3ai5Dsj29qfrRkqH8RAlmaKtkJbFmuzft1D2Hp_O_Ik2fR5aMyCH1V2P3Mc3hcYiliwSCwprXHA5UAUoowrx27TKY/s1600/glass+table+supplies+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpChIiYkQAliiWmN8rIMN_spDrDeYCOG_izLuR3bOI2-vYEjVY-Y3ai5Dsj29qfrRkqH8RAlmaKtkJbFmuzft1D2Hp_O_Ik2fR5aMyCH1V2P3Mc3hcYiliwSCwprXHA5UAUoowrx27TKY/s640/glass+table+supplies+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I gathered our supplies which included various colors of acrylic latex paint, </div>
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including our house trim paint in the big can. The wood grain tool </div>
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I used is right front and I also used a pair of gardening gloves to protect my hands.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWDVe-UmN92uoh1OYjxbL49pGuh0mPbAP6hi1gpPky9hEYI33o852N3NTGmcqy4GL739P6QEmMUR7HMk7OW4JEQY1UtkIWqQN2UXM5sHhosF20bpJk82WiZdNQ4B0ORQaW_WLOoK0z9M/s1600/glass+table+board+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="991" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWDVe-UmN92uoh1OYjxbL49pGuh0mPbAP6hi1gpPky9hEYI33o852N3NTGmcqy4GL739P6QEmMUR7HMk7OW4JEQY1UtkIWqQN2UXM5sHhosF20bpJk82WiZdNQ4B0ORQaW_WLOoK0z9M/s640/glass+table+board+1.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
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I painted a turquoise stripe and right away before it dried, </div>
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used the wood grain tool to make the design in the wet paint. </div>
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It is so exciting to see the texture appear like magic. </div>
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When I didn't like the way the grain looked</div>
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I simply wiped it off of the glass and redid it.</div>
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It was so very simple and came out so very pretty!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaQR_TZuGWvnhdYb0_aHeDUH_jyaiBB-fpqTY3P9KkVNzy3R6cxGt2vbpsBrwDcV5P0TrqKTSIbF4qq2YAajY8EickXzVrrqNCimsZsrlkjBp8qokzb_O5XlgRHpZhwRPhh3r0-fFA1w/s1600/glass+table+end+bare.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1507" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaQR_TZuGWvnhdYb0_aHeDUH_jyaiBB-fpqTY3P9KkVNzy3R6cxGt2vbpsBrwDcV5P0TrqKTSIbF4qq2YAajY8EickXzVrrqNCimsZsrlkjBp8qokzb_O5XlgRHpZhwRPhh3r0-fFA1w/s640/glass+table+end+bare.jpg" width="601" /></a></div>
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Once the "boards" were completely dry (about an hour in the sunshine) I spray painted </div>
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over the whole BACK surface with flat black spray paint, right over the painted boards.</div>
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The black paint made the wood grain pop and made the glass round opaque</div>
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so the planter underneath is not visible.</div>
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We put three globs of silicone glue on the rim of the black planter and then</div>
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we flipped the round over so the boards showed through</div>
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the glass and centered it on the black planter. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9FHoStSli3SBukrfeiVG7hIJQd5jA8k5sbBZC6S1iXnyQn7biWxqPZTLEInuKKKaRYJeX-ZZmL0NFe702s211SF_43VJjSARIadp7hcMStowWjqqQb99mUhyYU5J8CN-baOLMvIaRWQ/s1600/glass+table+end+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9FHoStSli3SBukrfeiVG7hIJQd5jA8k5sbBZC6S1iXnyQn7biWxqPZTLEInuKKKaRYJeX-ZZmL0NFe702s211SF_43VJjSARIadp7hcMStowWjqqQb99mUhyYU5J8CN-baOLMvIaRWQ/s640/glass+table+end+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I LOVE how the glass protects the bright colors and wood grain of the boards.</div>
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It is the perfect size and the perfect height for the seating on our deck.</div>
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We could not be more pleased with this project, not just because it was free</div>
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but because it came out so amazingly great looking.</div>
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And guess what? I still have another glass round in my</div>
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stash so we can make another table. Now that's something </div>
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to look forward to!</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-53781182346075651662021-11-10T09:00:00.000-08:002021-11-10T09:07:04.997-08:00Shabby Chic Basket Ornaments<div style="text-align: center;">
I made these miniature shabby chic Christmas ornaments this year and they came out so pretty!</div>
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Guess what I used to make the little baskets?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitiMSPOJ4oSwagLSENu-iciKF5yyBxwebJUwX69mLjKQQ57RpjQnDwTO6wsDAbAM2rjEqNVcZuh2WooQqDtS24PE-H4n2aZyKHwmaaZuJzqLfRJU579nd1fwbwfCbKrW6J4vVQxAfCy_s/s1600/shabby+chic+ornies+group+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitiMSPOJ4oSwagLSENu-iciKF5yyBxwebJUwX69mLjKQQ57RpjQnDwTO6wsDAbAM2rjEqNVcZuh2WooQqDtS24PE-H4n2aZyKHwmaaZuJzqLfRJU579nd1fwbwfCbKrW6J4vVQxAfCy_s/s640/shabby+chic+ornies+group+1.jpg" width="574" /></a></div>
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Toilet paper rolls!!</div>
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Yup. These mini basket ornies came from these plain old tubes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauaciOfW-qyEiXOShX8mFWr5UrUVGGmADZutHTY4mNAil_uXxeSoaZndUmIce_ee7oyC7fcRtFm_cxnjU4upSyyGgYmHMPggnY_4nfpE9jjbGV4TJM1-gJG1WAmJOUBb9BUKlCEXNNHA/s1600/DSC01712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjauaciOfW-qyEiXOShX8mFWr5UrUVGGmADZutHTY4mNAil_uXxeSoaZndUmIce_ee7oyC7fcRtFm_cxnjU4upSyyGgYmHMPggnY_4nfpE9jjbGV4TJM1-gJG1WAmJOUBb9BUKlCEXNNHA/s400/DSC01712.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes, I sprayed these tubes with a soap and bleach solution and let them dry before I used them.</div>
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I crashed my stash for all kinds of smalls and neat laces and trims for this project. If you are anything like me you have LOADS of little items that would be the right size for these little ornaments.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwpUJkHv_rV9AdLeWEMceljBDNOUIQO_pEYyBH6DdXmwF4rsnTPRh9frJbw3ssjXfLkgz6bw0goM1Wm5c2zVRQlIAlqsRbyduOXiWJhWz-lB49P3_abpX5rMaHHP1Y2N3-zr3jR0k498/s1600/DSC01714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwpUJkHv_rV9AdLeWEMceljBDNOUIQO_pEYyBH6DdXmwF4rsnTPRh9frJbw3ssjXfLkgz6bw0goM1Wm5c2zVRQlIAlqsRbyduOXiWJhWz-lB49P3_abpX5rMaHHP1Y2N3-zr3jR0k498/s400/DSC01714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cut each tube in half and hot glue the bottom edge shut. I use a bulldog clamp to hold the edges together while it cools.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcTI3An1V9n66GBiNKAzvPvn0ZL4r4AKrgSrTriiS4o_bRs6N_HgYfORT_J-HrNcXovposMqvdJPB7k_rVscWlFGNsXmZQPGtlm4OYBwjZc8UlcRqCnI3DYu55AZfKTZvHRjpu_j9gaE/s1600/blog+shabby+chic+ornies+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcTI3An1V9n66GBiNKAzvPvn0ZL4r4AKrgSrTriiS4o_bRs6N_HgYfORT_J-HrNcXovposMqvdJPB7k_rVscWlFGNsXmZQPGtlm4OYBwjZc8UlcRqCnI3DYu55AZfKTZvHRjpu_j9gaE/s640/blog+shabby+chic+ornies+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Use your adhesive of choice to cover the tube with wrapping paper, fabric or what have you. I am using Dollar Store wrapping paper with scrap lace around the top. Use a tiny hole punch on each side of the top. Cut a bit of florist or craft wire about 8 to 10 inches long and wrap it around a pencil, paintbrush handle or small dowel to make curls. Attach to your basket at each side.</div>
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I hot glued fiberfill inside so all the decor items would perch right at the top of the basket. You could also use crumpled tissue. Now for some fun!!</div>
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Using hot glue, start embellishing your little basket. I am no minimalist, so you can see I like to stuff them FULL.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvn87kXCLSpn4uPMFoG527iUaRIkcrufRiFlInuk4uBXAQ6QIywBS_5vw40E6s0GjNiZ2KlmgoUp-M5GafEiwrVSxSTodGPbLImFfzuZ0upeuQfP6VTa-pNB8peWFEhgLPBaNped-08Mc/s1600/DSC01719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvn87kXCLSpn4uPMFoG527iUaRIkcrufRiFlInuk4uBXAQ6QIywBS_5vw40E6s0GjNiZ2KlmgoUp-M5GafEiwrVSxSTodGPbLImFfzuZ0upeuQfP6VTa-pNB8peWFEhgLPBaNped-08Mc/s400/DSC01719.JPG" width="381" /></a></div>
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Such a fun project! </div>
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These are pretty on the tree, or as gift toppers or even small gifts for a group.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3S2thlbFxAYLJsDdtOynFaJxRfi_wsnptpn2sQFypNZEvHrKeIDpSZcWbah_j_D67K5iLOFR4bBV2wYVXsO-Y9Qho2N275gCM7UjfTo5xPxv8hDySpcayinBon3Pofjhv3pmhNd5E84/s1600/shabby+chic+ornies+group+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3S2thlbFxAYLJsDdtOynFaJxRfi_wsnptpn2sQFypNZEvHrKeIDpSZcWbah_j_D67K5iLOFR4bBV2wYVXsO-Y9Qho2N275gCM7UjfTo5xPxv8hDySpcayinBon3Pofjhv3pmhNd5E84/s640/shabby+chic+ornies+group+2.jpg" width="604" /></a></div>
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PLUS, you can make them in any theme!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ef6fdQMq9xmvlVfNZbSlY2_aog5-l6y4Xh93VcsGhLDARBorepqcE0Zj5FyunV740XaPYQLNf5lMSM5Vi2-LTXWLGV2CHncPs5_iyobI6hrG0Nw_A-eBC52Wolr7X9q6eRqmI1RAfkE/s1600/sewing+ornies+pink+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ef6fdQMq9xmvlVfNZbSlY2_aog5-l6y4Xh93VcsGhLDARBorepqcE0Zj5FyunV740XaPYQLNf5lMSM5Vi2-LTXWLGV2CHncPs5_iyobI6hrG0Nw_A-eBC52Wolr7X9q6eRqmI1RAfkE/s640/sewing+ornies+pink+1.jpg" width="606" /></a></div>
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I've made these for Christmas gifts and for my Etsy shop. Think of the possibilities for St. Valentine's Day, or a baby shower, or a themed birthday.</div>
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So many neat ideas, I want to try them ALL.</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-17948288353117190012021-10-10T17:06:00.001-07:002021-10-10T17:06:00.208-07:00Melted Shot Glasses = Pretty Wind Chimes/Suncatchers<div class="separator"><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Yes, you read that right. </div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Melted shot glasses can be used to make pretty wind chimes!</div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Or, suncatchers, as one "helpful" commenter wrote. "These are not true CHIMES."</div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Tomato, tomahto, but I understand the distinction. </div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Ahem. They're fun and easy to make and look so pretty when they're done.</div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1sVs2iIf8OQf_7TIWfQcr-3IcSj3b0vjVmgSdnU9Ew7OZMcbfBuWzIIGVijaZUuCIrJ4ZhjepIo1L2C1qJ7vvPAssVTRq12_9GKU4-meVsyLw7Xp-wB2v7B3P3XVPB0wqYNm6NBF5S4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="531" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1sVs2iIf8OQf_7TIWfQcr-3IcSj3b0vjVmgSdnU9Ew7OZMcbfBuWzIIGVijaZUuCIrJ4ZhjepIo1L2C1qJ7vvPAssVTRq12_9GKU4-meVsyLw7Xp-wB2v7B3P3XVPB0wqYNm6NBF5S4/s16000/image.png" /></a></div><br /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWi7bWquS7qHxJsVvkOhOSCGP6mp55fn2N_ROefgLnP7h8BmYJXly2jyHhPA_d2WLC0CYh63yrooQI0d3Bno1QD015gkGWSrS-opfItCh1_AxZ0ThebPxoYOa-4SrVCmbwDZS9dObDjU/w531-h716-no/" /><br />
<br /> The look almost like glass and they have a merry plastic clink to them. <div> And they sure are pretty!</div><div><br />
<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaUx4yDSVZF7nBqP6gmb4X4erpcv5kibHBCHx9umSyun80ZXv9db39fRXgmyTZ5VkiqjB_x96dY_L5q0bQD9MYwdMDv2YsaP_s5iz53kXBbKCbEzXlBkEB1QcZA1-parMuT68czZxXJM/w518-h716-no/" width="461" /><div> I got the plastic shot glasses at our local Dollar Tree. </div><div> I bought all the colors!</div><div> Using an old cupcake pan I put two or three glasses in each cupcake hole.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkbVisMlwpcPJb6KASbkwVa44HTfHVWjc1h153gZ5DILLlpoukRL0RxTGyRm8J-EKiZSlgC0UMDP-Wi80vIJ8vOSpDIvUp2b638rj3woMyECXOXppZcj7IVOI4c_Cnd_ha80OIG9zawY/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkbVisMlwpcPJb6KASbkwVa44HTfHVWjc1h153gZ5DILLlpoukRL0RxTGyRm8J-EKiZSlgC0UMDP-Wi80vIJ8vOSpDIvUp2b638rj3woMyECXOXppZcj7IVOI4c_Cnd_ha80OIG9zawY/" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCE4lmc_C5C5C1TOBhjInL2fdqOyrqZ7YttQuvcLnz88zGM1iZ01FEPB6TI_RYvjHGpz74noauX1LeoAudHHdyIrieWjYZhFO1bI2jHt96KCen9BlzVgXMzE__omc2Gx8_m8pXDnN8fY/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="518" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCE4lmc_C5C5C1TOBhjInL2fdqOyrqZ7YttQuvcLnz88zGM1iZ01FEPB6TI_RYvjHGpz74noauX1LeoAudHHdyIrieWjYZhFO1bI2jHt96KCen9BlzVgXMzE__omc2Gx8_m8pXDnN8fY/w400-h266/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><div> </div><div> We used the OUTSIDE oven in The Welding Man's shop. </div><div><br /></div><div>THE MELTING PLASTING OFF GASES SOME SMELLY FUMES. USE AN OUTDOOR</div><div> OVEN OR BARBECUE, DO NOT DO THIS IN YOUR KITCHEN111</div><div><br /></div><div> I set the temp at 250 F and checked them often to assess how the melting progressed.</div><div> I think it took less than 10 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div><img height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwE6ih1-yhfBLncWulTeb2DlLT7zFgm40bJn6TwDab_6ndyDnoZUMwvd7UTTXLvlJ1F2inNzzbWsSN6Un0PLZuNnT0mQlE1SKkDI70efN5ydwgcR6IFi1C6F3OrFw4Msjch-yPv4Zhqs/w1273-h716-no/" width="640" /><br />
<br /> Here is how the glasses looked before and after melting.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwk_1lg3QTt8G5vdWHkzEKWyJZvyj5hXcJJ2Xh7MYJh8LJYRKg6s_uRRvWmhiSvqXZxi_3UsVPLB_742K1qVTIUUJ2ov12Du_o0wQY2xN_J7fWYOeuH2qIZrM01cfVQGTkrFe_wGzcg8/w558-h716-no/" /><br /> Once they were cool I flipped them out on my work table. No, they </div><div> did NOT stick to the pan.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div>We used a small drill bit to make holes in each disc using an electric drill. Then strung them up using chains and rings from other Dollar Tree items. The plastic thingy at the top was in my craft room, I don't know what it was before.</div><div><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1HaT1tkry0T_pE127FBiiSOiAG74H4gCiyI2XdUX13PrOee8sw5CEc5JLIWYJ7iTSZBiIEoXTlBt4WUbGsg8m7DQEdTSbz5Ybv53dSF5jRm0-AYdlEu6Nhn9HpbtkX3p8LmkLxRjbfc/w428-h716-no/" /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhUgf4AYSrwbUHAl0YbnoGgygZSw2W6xfkvhA8uCQxVY0lgBrnN1M3_MjkytnE9nXDbzoHyxSz5z98Yb1dHTlLCgKNKTjkL0d6km6ssYXkSnRXZHNQXOBJKYX-7hMav4s9BqPGLa2GE0/w440-h716-no/" /><br />
<br /> This turned out so pretty and was so easy to do!</div><div><br /></div><div> I see online that this can be done with the larger thing plastic drink cups too. </div><div> I will have to try that and write about it.<br />
<br /></div></div></div></div></div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-49178958670612104702021-09-06T09:35:00.001-07:002021-09-23T10:23:13.998-07:00Recycle Pallet Boards and Nursery Pots To Make Neat Planters<div style="text-align: center;">
This is one of my favorite garden DIY projects! </div>
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We first made these five years ago and they are still going strong all year long in our garden.</div>
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It is cheap, fairly easy to do and gives me the BIG planters pots I want for my yard.</div>
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We noticed the big pile of empty tree pots at our local nursery and bought</div>
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a couple of 15 gallon size for $6 each. </div>
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We already had a pile of boards from dismantled pallets,</div>
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so already this project is right up my alley...</div>
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CHEAP!</div>
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<img height="490" src="https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/2015/03/15/2652111/pallet-wood-planter-project-container-gardening-gardening-pallet.jpg?size=1600x1000&nocrop=1" width="640" /><br />
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Here are the finished planters. </div>
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I LOVE the different shades of the used boards and the rough grain. </div>
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These nursery pots have a generous lip around the top which make</div>
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the finished planters look neat.<img height="480" src="https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/2015/03/15/2652099/pallet-wood-planter-project-container-gardening-gardening-pallet.jpg?size=1600x1000&nocrop=1" width="640" />Before....and after!</div>
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<img alt="pallet wood planter project, container gardening, gardening, pallet, repurposing upcycling" src="https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/2015/03/15/2652102/pallet-wood-planter-project-container-gardening-gardening-pallet.jpg?size=720x845&nocrop=1" /><br />
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The Welding Man trimmed each board to fit and we attached them</div>
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with our handy nail gun using brads.</div>
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The nail gun runs on a small air compressor. </div>
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It's one of my favorite tools for projects like this.</div>
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<img src="https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/2015/03/15/2652105/pallet-wood-planter-project-container-gardening-gardening-pallet.jpg?size=1600x1000&nocrop=1" /><br />
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Just look at the neat colors and wood grain!</div>
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<img alt="pallet wood planter project, container gardening, gardening, pallet, repurposing upcycling" src="https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/2015/03/15/2652108/pallet-wood-planter-project-container-gardening-gardening-pallet.jpg?size=720x845&nocrop=1" /><br />
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Sarlac Pit?</div>
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Here's how the brads look once the boards are attached. </div>
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We used long ones so they would penetrate all the way thru and</div>
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give us a generous length to bend down inside the planter. </div>
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We used a block of wood and a pair of needle nose pliers for this part. </div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kO8fHRW59lZxjvUNy4OGaKXu8n_z3-6HSJfdN1AWxQHJGaq3EjbziIHLZ9yJtzqpNteYrZ32P-4rKkGRh3nlTXx6W66BiEWzZDE2lABSS5_ZB_OMW9FfOFD_Z6McBS-ME72CEY7KjIQ/w853-h707-no/" /><br />
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This is the largest tree pot we've redone.</div>
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It is 22 gallon, I believe, and it holds a full size rose bush aand two Walkers Low Catmint plants. </div>
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We dry brushed it withour house trim paint and added a </div>
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mitered board frame around the top for a nice finishing touch.</div>
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<pre class="_ngcontent-nwn-32" style="background-color: #f1f3f4; box-sizing: border-box; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); direction: ltr; flex: 1 1 0%; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow: auto; padding: 16px;"><code class="_ngcontent-nwn-32"><script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1048645992991686"
crossorigin="anonymous"></script></code></pre><pre class="_ngcontent-nwn-32" style="background-color: #f1f3f4; box-sizing: border-box; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); direction: ltr; flex: 1 1 0%; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow: auto; padding: 16px;"><code class="_ngcontent-nwn-32"><br /></code></pre>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-28681928250267574042021-09-06T09:30:00.000-07:002021-09-06T09:39:57.802-07:00Cracked Mirror To Painting Makeover<h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="background-color: white; color: #cc6600; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18.2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0.25em 0px 0px; padding: 0px 0px 4px;">
Broken Mirror to Painting Save</h3>
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<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-961128589098391219" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;">
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What do you do with a FOUR FOOT wide cracked mirror?<br />
<br />
I saved this totally cool cracked mirror in its AWESOME frame<br />
with spray paint,tissue paper, Mod Podge, craft paint and clear sealer.<br />
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Read on to learn the details.<br />
I<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKTeQ-QRYcBMZgwkDTt4L1lLM6NG2cfbm9hqVCPmD3GGyYLzILvn4-WNzvKQ1YjyaBD10QCoXrKNMZ2ElGE8rNW9AdHO4VfhBkPlwX2U_NtNHcHt3TqHPVPr_WQ906X-QYsIJ5Gz4FUk/s1600/mirror+painting+project+014.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="374" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457238836854402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKTeQ-QRYcBMZgwkDTt4L1lLM6NG2cfbm9hqVCPmD3GGyYLzILvn4-WNzvKQ1YjyaBD10QCoXrKNMZ2ElGE8rNW9AdHO4VfhBkPlwX2U_NtNHcHt3TqHPVPr_WQ906X-QYsIJ5Gz4FUk/s640/mirror+painting+project+014.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a><br />
I started out with a beautifully framed mirror but ended up<br />
with this painting. How in the world did that happen?</div>
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<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0d_v-MTM6Q-DAkBkX_Jr3KfvhUG8tU2NCsVNe42ip32HZLvLLbW15pB6M7mriTeiFYYBDcl8rhFmt3uK6jcVA8VoZ56fjwxeFdQ-McRHypRKbfht_73PBZjass5CL6Q5MnoYDWxg2sE/s1600/mirror+painting+project+001.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457596317801250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0d_v-MTM6Q-DAkBkX_Jr3KfvhUG8tU2NCsVNe42ip32HZLvLLbW15pB6M7mriTeiFYYBDcl8rhFmt3uK6jcVA8VoZ56fjwxeFdQ-McRHypRKbfht_73PBZjass5CL6Q5MnoYDWxg2sE/s640/mirror+painting+project+001.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a>It started out as a $9 Goodwill find with a gorgeous frame and a cracked mirror.<br />
Four foot long and two and a half feet wide, it was perfect for our art wall, I thought.<br />
<br />
What to do? The frame was still good. Why not turn it into a painting instead?<br />
Can't fix the mirror so I figured why not cover it up?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB3UvNXZaE9KnpHDkJRL3mOadrXxJ5OETipjeXOVTD1J3_Jr3u2p3ghoCZ5ykxgs8_dLEV5HkpAkiDZUlRXTuLMJ5xJsDH9okOlEUaDUoHfLIuEAZuQ9OFK5OQyHeQp0DXVSEmdjayUA/s1600/mirror+painting+project+004.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457521535664770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB3UvNXZaE9KnpHDkJRL3mOadrXxJ5OETipjeXOVTD1J3_Jr3u2p3ghoCZ5ykxgs8_dLEV5HkpAkiDZUlRXTuLMJ5xJsDH9okOlEUaDUoHfLIuEAZuQ9OFK5OQyHeQp0DXVSEmdjayUA/s400/mirror+painting+project+004.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px; width: 400px;" /></a>I turned to my tried and true method for covering up and adding texture.....crumpled tissue paper and mod podge! I taped the crack on front and back with clear packing tape.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRs1KpCJNzzEUn00eO_p-XP6sZooZuKaXdS4XrUreafwtaWFk1z5Nnu7KIl6aU2cyCokdWRo9oNFs3UJgzhnfIUOsPa1nOokVe_3qwH-NdRC4jEZmKwjyJNfB_omIia4r7g2fg23jMQQ/s1600/mirror+painting+project+008.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457452312103938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRs1KpCJNzzEUn00eO_p-XP6sZooZuKaXdS4XrUreafwtaWFk1z5Nnu7KIl6aU2cyCokdWRo9oNFs3UJgzhnfIUOsPa1nOokVe_3qwH-NdRC4jEZmKwjyJNfB_omIia4r7g2fg23jMQQ/s640/mirror+painting+project+008.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a> See how the tissue has dried to a nice pearly opaque textured finish?</div>
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I spray painted the frame with Walnut Brown, Leather Brown</div>
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and a bit of black dry brushing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qNBRXpg6CFZcPTMV4PRMS0N3_WPzJsU6PZSV1MlW5czDqm1xXxGrmN4ttvwUKjPL2UZuJ5U-iJxqWgiS_pAE9ucoFSzhuICyOtbYcKOdqhEKoUfGZYNGg47OCd8T4ERqnLGKWEXbygY/s1600/mirror+painting+project+010.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457339012630162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qNBRXpg6CFZcPTMV4PRMS0N3_WPzJsU6PZSV1MlW5czDqm1xXxGrmN4ttvwUKjPL2UZuJ5U-iJxqWgiS_pAE9ucoFSzhuICyOtbYcKOdqhEKoUfGZYNGg47OCd8T4ERqnLGKWEXbygY/s640/mirror+painting+project+010.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a><br />
Time to paint!<br />
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I knew I wanted something as a vivid blue focal point, so I began layering shades<br />
of blue, lavender, teal, purple and black around a white circle. There is also a<br />
bit of pink and dark green in there. The crumpled tissue really<br />
grabbed the paint and gave this a nice interesting texture.<br />
I knew I wanted a branch with a nest and some eggs and<br />
here is how it ended up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKTeQ-QRYcBMZgwkDTt4L1lLM6NG2cfbm9hqVCPmD3GGyYLzILvn4-WNzvKQ1YjyaBD10QCoXrKNMZ2ElGE8rNW9AdHO4VfhBkPlwX2U_NtNHcHt3TqHPVPr_WQ906X-QYsIJ5Gz4FUk/s1600/mirror+painting+project+014.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="374" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457238836854402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKTeQ-QRYcBMZgwkDTt4L1lLM6NG2cfbm9hqVCPmD3GGyYLzILvn4-WNzvKQ1YjyaBD10QCoXrKNMZ2ElGE8rNW9AdHO4VfhBkPlwX2U_NtNHcHt3TqHPVPr_WQ906X-QYsIJ5Gz4FUk/s640/mirror+painting+project+014.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a>I like it!<br />
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I even used my favorite new paint tool, a Deco Color paint pen, to add some of the finer details.<br />
The Welding Man likes it too. And you know what?<br />
If I get tired of this I can always repaint it as something else.<br />
I'm adaptable that way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJP5UCyJQxUzdkLnYqfTJ88f4mKA3eFQeqLx_57pvII0x2UBZVWER_kqpkrXxytxyHAeGeY5P9RAtX4vP_2_Jisq3s1hr6XRQEX4yzNpF3H5xWsgt9dnRolv0qlkR96iFsfiHy80W3vI/s1600/mirror+painting+project+018.jpg" style="color: #999999; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652457156378937298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJP5UCyJQxUzdkLnYqfTJ88f4mKA3eFQeqLx_57pvII0x2UBZVWER_kqpkrXxytxyHAeGeY5P9RAtX4vP_2_Jisq3s1hr6XRQEX4yzNpF3H5xWsgt9dnRolv0qlkR96iFsfiHy80W3vI/s640/mirror+painting+project+018.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; padding: 4px;" width="640" /></a>Here's a close up of the nest with four eggs since we have four kids. Sure, they're all grown and flown now but since we've moved we all live in the same town, how cool is that? We see them all so often that our empty nest isn't really empty after all!</div>
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Now I have to rearrange our living room art wall to make it fit.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhuhpQ4Jc-3Y92u3VWq9o3FiRVUisQPuKS4mopaGRyBxA0I5cs1_8Wxsk_ohmhGio7dNxFvn_ZHZdKf5J-aHwb-_GRoW7LYjT4CI5T9wVJW2H61frUuvYzhW4aFc91b6gEZS0byyPXOQ/s640/DSC01476.JPG" /><br />
<br />
Lovin' how this cracked mirror with the beautiful frame will look up there!</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-83392177540791832012021-05-25T07:30:00.001-07:002021-05-25T08:56:37.462-07:00Paint Pen and River Rocks, Gotta Love Them!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkfIuH0ltxp3RCUrdE2IKzvEUu5G4GPfoH5Q7KiL8zR9vUviVzSRx0XpbdfpJpAz0eXF0wCQmJtWXRDwL9fs2gYvtHkQ3tz8540gdsdyhV6-luAKo-nB9d7BL1gj2MmXVbYQnjXJMBZQ/s1600/vacation+river+house+2011+044.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAM_mQgoHPBu3JuMX8fpdxjox16-6vp5Ypeo_C8_MneFnOR_0xjxD_mRP5bJsD05g6ZUUx8MzkPuCvMRnYPIAOT8CLc0X0tYwaBIHGj61DOGXDwf1pY_pnWhV2qA4P9OJT5d36-1_ADKQ/s1600/vacation+river+house+2011+034+b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="443" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649474947357842018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAM_mQgoHPBu3JuMX8fpdxjox16-6vp5Ypeo_C8_MneFnOR_0xjxD_mRP5bJsD05g6ZUUx8MzkPuCvMRnYPIAOT8CLc0X0tYwaBIHGj61DOGXDwf1pY_pnWhV2qA4P9OJT5d36-1_ADKQ/s640/vacation+river+house+2011+034+b.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">One of the best things about our family vacation spot is the private swimming hole</div><div style="text-align: center;"> with its wonderful sandy beach in the curve of the nicely landscaped yard. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> The weather was perfect, the house was excellent</div><div style="text-align: center;"> and the swimming hole was fantastic.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkfIuH0ltxp3RCUrdE2IKzvEUu5G4GPfoH5Q7KiL8zR9vUviVzSRx0XpbdfpJpAz0eXF0wCQmJtWXRDwL9fs2gYvtHkQ3tz8540gdsdyhV6-luAKo-nB9d7BL1gj2MmXVbYQnjXJMBZQ/s1600/vacation+river+house+2011+044.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652269661500367346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkfIuH0ltxp3RCUrdE2IKzvEUu5G4GPfoH5Q7KiL8zR9vUviVzSRx0XpbdfpJpAz0eXF0wCQmJtWXRDwL9fs2gYvtHkQ3tz8540gdsdyhV6-luAKo-nB9d7BL1gj2MmXVbYQnjXJMBZQ/w489-h300/vacation+river+house+2011+044.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" width="489" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I spent lots of time on the water and sitting in the sun with a book, </div><div><div style="text-align: center;">and then I remembered I brought a paint pen to try out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAEIbVITelt_8nKh1PLRpJWqGPRGDOzYfXckXcBN1BJqETsh8Q9qF31MHfWHan9jIUgb15GohmfZJKaFB8a7FZrF5IAYSYczA7iKQCHOBMru0Cqqv2ghyphenhyphen_4b6CJMtJbXKCCvegNTILMs/s1600/vacation+river+house+2011+022.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649465119184628722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAEIbVITelt_8nKh1PLRpJWqGPRGDOzYfXckXcBN1BJqETsh8Q9qF31MHfWHan9jIUgb15GohmfZJKaFB8a7FZrF5IAYSYczA7iKQCHOBMru0Cqqv2ghyphenhyphen_4b6CJMtJbXKCCvegNTILMs/s640/vacation+river+house+2011+022.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I usually use acrylic paints and paint brushes for these projects</div><div style="text-align: center;"> but this paint pen won me over!</div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38TtIitOTYZRJrnoKSQoYolK_62NaGIe1fqtpR0J4L762VzsFi0NhuB44HJpZ8eVDjHGxIJxiqKNtNEoySV_5WUlepg1q3422cBIuvzh-qp2b6dv_qnv3ZHJ5UBrJEpSFhAdE80yDvKs/s1600/vacation+river+house+2011+034.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="476" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649428196372827266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38TtIitOTYZRJrnoKSQoYolK_62NaGIe1fqtpR0J4L762VzsFi0NhuB44HJpZ8eVDjHGxIJxiqKNtNEoySV_5WUlepg1q3422cBIuvzh-qp2b6dv_qnv3ZHJ5UBrJEpSFhAdE80yDvKs/s640/vacation+river+house+2011+034.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The biggest rock is 5" across and the smallest (the skull rock) is about 2" tall.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Once they are sealed with clear acrylic, the subtle colors of the stones brighten up</div><div style="text-align: center;"> and make the black paint really stand out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We left one rock with our hosts as a thank you gift. They loved it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now I'm thinking of taking a bigger rock and painting our address on it </div><div style="text-align: center;">then using a paint pen to dress it up with some swirls and curlicues. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> How easy would it be to really do a fancy paint job on a pumpkin for Halloween? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> And what about a tree design on a table runner or a pillow?</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649474947357842018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAM_mQgoHPBu3JuMX8fpdxjox16-6vp5Ypeo_C8_MneFnOR_0xjxD_mRP5bJsD05g6ZUUx8MzkPuCvMRnYPIAOT8CLc0X0tYwaBIHGj61DOGXDwf1pY_pnWhV2qA4P9OJT5d36-1_ADKQ/s400/vacation+river+house+2011+034+b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 279px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll be bringing paint pens with me on vacation from now on!</div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-59130505401179610362021-04-27T23:00:00.000-07:002021-04-28T13:41:25.006-07:00Rustic Pebble Table From a Five Gallon Bucket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I wanted a couple of small side tables for our deck and decided to make them out of what we had on hand, which includes five gallon buckets, recycled pallet boards and Dollar Store pebbles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9o_F73kwU8HWh4SmFlCdzuNvvnwSjq65WecG78LWM63LEpGC8swmkRqgct4D_xdG7vUKGAL1VzHO3dN5Hfa7wBU5Q5h-1pKlb_3YCHLHQ0pq9KZZzGeqgRPNNgHzj_u6YmEkpscI8jw/s1600/bucket+table+bucket.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="706" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9o_F73kwU8HWh4SmFlCdzuNvvnwSjq65WecG78LWM63LEpGC8swmkRqgct4D_xdG7vUKGAL1VzHO3dN5Hfa7wBU5Q5h-1pKlb_3YCHLHQ0pq9KZZzGeqgRPNNgHzj_u6YmEkpscI8jw/s400/bucket+table+bucket.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
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Here's a link to the first bucket table I made with a blingy top of beautiful glass gems from the Dollar Store. I like it but it seems too...fancy for our front deck.</div>
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<a href="http://makethebestofthings.blogspot.com/2017/05/five-gallon-bucket-table-diy.html">http://makethebestofthings.blogspot.com/2017/05/five-gallon-bucket-table-diy.html</a></div>
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So I knew I wanted to make something a bit more rustic and farm style. </div>
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Back to the stash of five gallon buckets I go and add more salvaged pallet boards.</div>
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Our nail gun makes this part quick and easy.</div>
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I put five nails in each board then bent them down for safety.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUnaBkTIrcUforgj2u015dIwzpNJhyebkkms-g7uoSuEG6rm4Pl2-2-wgJkL5rmdRM3_TylaEy5sK7ts3PUa4kyw1LsU330P3UgFa0neH8MQ6Lj-KDUxv8LSfw-uD75n4lotzQxeidu0/s1600/bucket+pebble+table+interior+-+Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1418" data-original-width="1600" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUnaBkTIrcUforgj2u015dIwzpNJhyebkkms-g7uoSuEG6rm4Pl2-2-wgJkL5rmdRM3_TylaEy5sK7ts3PUa4kyw1LsU330P3UgFa0neH8MQ6Lj-KDUxv8LSfw-uD75n4lotzQxeidu0/s400/bucket+pebble+table+interior+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our local Dollar Store has these bags of pretty polished pebbles in stock all year long. This project took two bags since I picked thru them for flatter stones. I added larger flat stones from our gravel garden paths and used silicone to attached them to a thrift store microwave plate. I think the plate cost $1.35 and I also got a discount!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvHNMUOx5jpuTVh92ZDQJkTSCjoZMc7yzCVa2sjsi-VE9TEIa024v1Z0oivtZgrI8No6o_hCOze9izH785EV6Y2Lu-3p731OadkaXwvqws1CbrPcgnWUUwdnXvzd4tFpUhCL2TrVhWf0/s1600/bucket+pebble+table+silicone+-+Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1341" data-original-width="1600" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvHNMUOx5jpuTVh92ZDQJkTSCjoZMc7yzCVa2sjsi-VE9TEIa024v1Z0oivtZgrI8No6o_hCOze9izH785EV6Y2Lu-3p731OadkaXwvqws1CbrPcgnWUUwdnXvzd4tFpUhCL2TrVhWf0/s400/bucket+pebble+table+silicone+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I put a blob of silicone about the size of small cookie on the plate, then smooshed the pebbles one by one into the blob, giving each of them a twist to seat them in the silicone. The silicone dries clear and looks like the pebbles are sitting in water when you are done.</div>
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I really really really like the rustic look and country charm of this version of my bucket table!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJkaGFxWA_Ly_0TF86TDKiZNEKDG_dFveBfFut7vN8kceNrXOs5TLiTKqthz7eH5T0bj2FJE3mdKaZfepYBKMxM7HVG-QS5wwMmLAGY5DA9Ok44aDApaXktXZzqV7Qrz2kTVKL4wKffM/s1600/bucket+pebble+table+bare+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJkaGFxWA_Ly_0TF86TDKiZNEKDG_dFveBfFut7vN8kceNrXOs5TLiTKqthz7eH5T0bj2FJE3mdKaZfepYBKMxM7HVG-QS5wwMmLAGY5DA9Ok44aDApaXktXZzqV7Qrz2kTVKL4wKffM/s640/bucket+pebble+table+bare+2.jpg" width="491" /></a></div>
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The warm wood and colorful stones are just a natural pairing and with the silicone </div>
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they look like they are floating in water. LOVE IT!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIrx-_4sj__UZbTdloyUzeRDDfQsWc3t6050QLA9kXcrbhGrNXo8cWNUPNAGl0OaLRuWXIclpEHmIKbZ8zqKHfc-5jtGsS1KYMD3BGbKSvbIDE5HFb_Xo9LkmxmSYvryoqVXEYeWvfoA/s1600/bucket+pebble+table+dressed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1104" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIrx-_4sj__UZbTdloyUzeRDDfQsWc3t6050QLA9kXcrbhGrNXo8cWNUPNAGl0OaLRuWXIclpEHmIKbZ8zqKHfc-5jtGsS1KYMD3BGbKSvbIDE5HFb_Xo9LkmxmSYvryoqVXEYeWvfoA/s640/bucket+pebble+table+dressed.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
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Perfect for a nice morning cuppa before the day heats up. I am liking this little </div>
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table more and more as I keep looking at it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXHizLbm_doE_lqQa0KgADA4B-AT2HeSKs1g4M9zYVuFq7-0d4m-5C_MhDbcQ5WJ7clv7tO2oZS85JtLSYmgO9OdS-Rk_yAU5DTMpeHF1f1KwoAcATLsmfwloi7RuvO958viYMGZhYLI/s1600/bucket+table+pretzels.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXHizLbm_doE_lqQa0KgADA4B-AT2HeSKs1g4M9zYVuFq7-0d4m-5C_MhDbcQ5WJ7clv7tO2oZS85JtLSYmgO9OdS-Rk_yAU5DTMpeHF1f1KwoAcATLsmfwloi7RuvO958viYMGZhYLI/s640/bucket+table+pretzels.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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So here's the first version of my five gallon bucket table with blingy </div>
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Dollar Store glass gems. I like this one too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qw-42YFqSULKbJ6gfMk0G9hVr2-fDAy9QPPGFWrv94HGlM9l80fQZ_IttLqQveC4Zm0goePzRMGR8R75vUN9E8DAO6EeuesUTcw7SqgLH3KjQ1hznqA8MstvfZ3Bg-_jdfBjmtI-vts/s1600/bucket+pebble+table+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1311" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qw-42YFqSULKbJ6gfMk0G9hVr2-fDAy9QPPGFWrv94HGlM9l80fQZ_IttLqQveC4Zm0goePzRMGR8R75vUN9E8DAO6EeuesUTcw7SqgLH3KjQ1hznqA8MstvfZ3Bg-_jdfBjmtI-vts/s640/bucket+pebble+table+2.jpg" width="524" /></a></div>
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Plus, just like the other table, this pebble table is totally weatherproof </div>
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so it can stay out side all year if I want. And the cost? Minimal.</div>
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Here is the breakdown....</div>
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five gallon bucket on hand </div>
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reclaimed pallet boards on hand</div>
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one tube of silicone caulking $2.97</div>
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2 bags of Dollar Store polished pebbles $2 total</div>
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2 hours of time with our nail gun and then with a caulking gun.</div>
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The silicone sets up quickly and after an overnight wait this little table is</div>
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ready for use anywhere outside. </div>
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I call this a win win!<br />
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-9737785701831712512021-04-19T07:40:00.000-07:002021-04-19T07:40:17.856-07:00Repainted Dollar Store Butterflies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just couldn't leave well enough alone...so I repainted these metal butterflies for my garden!</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6Nlkbv0mIiLPASdYiwnUr27Fa1SiMBmfX8yOnR6jak_YRih9x_04rstpXw9ws9PibIxN1lviVS9TH9Q2o_M39Gwrev3sZTPvvnj_P5jeKxoevTstMkB0B7uR3tAosRUT99-U5WpR-KI/s1600/dollar+store+butterflies+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6Nlkbv0mIiLPASdYiwnUr27Fa1SiMBmfX8yOnR6jak_YRih9x_04rstpXw9ws9PibIxN1lviVS9TH9Q2o_M39Gwrev3sZTPvvnj_P5jeKxoevTstMkB0B7uR3tAosRUT99-U5WpR-KI/s1600/dollar+store+butterflies+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Before.......................................and after.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJLZvhSX9GuTvxAv-md0i_MimkGwc7wQfu2qIpdYHWXxWXrNptC1BPVo-UADBlTHm3MUj4N9C08ofxz8Z2xyEG7rFPnKCekLoIgXsZwb6-uJ36wojdgOglxksb2WH-JZsUU14hhJ_gsk/s1600/dollar+butterflies+before.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJLZvhSX9GuTvxAv-md0i_MimkGwc7wQfu2qIpdYHWXxWXrNptC1BPVo-UADBlTHm3MUj4N9C08ofxz8Z2xyEG7rFPnKCekLoIgXsZwb6-uJ36wojdgOglxksb2WH-JZsUU14hhJ_gsk/s1600/dollar+butterflies+before.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I found these metal butterfly stakes at the local Dollar Store and immediately made plans to repaint them for my garden.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-D4PQ2rRnV5cUjf4mBU-xoKlVVjSF-1OOWtSz5ooGvzI06TsHUROiIswbFWiGHkQXfSPj9P2BP2NmDRJp40cUTLcMfV2YHga9Atw5dDWJ_Z8mEqsSsor8TyR35f9VpHBH80qSEq_CAV8/s1600/dollar+butterflies+blue+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-D4PQ2rRnV5cUjf4mBU-xoKlVVjSF-1OOWtSz5ooGvzI06TsHUROiIswbFWiGHkQXfSPj9P2BP2NmDRJp40cUTLcMfV2YHga9Atw5dDWJ_Z8mEqsSsor8TyR35f9VpHBH80qSEq_CAV8/s1600/dollar+butterflies+blue+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used two colors of spray paint to give me more of a turquoise color to complement our front deck.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqlvhyuq9zdeWOs3TDcHY6WzO-9gvIWU2PMDjqSqfTB7uQN8ZFc-gav00fu6riHRlPAZU8yNLg7zmgLgsGMw_UO8kmz57SWy85_4-6kMXP3QLo-0jZA68EKzgrTQoi2zar2Dt-pEAbNk/s1600/front+deck+flowers+2012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqlvhyuq9zdeWOs3TDcHY6WzO-9gvIWU2PMDjqSqfTB7uQN8ZFc-gav00fu6riHRlPAZU8yNLg7zmgLgsGMw_UO8kmz57SWy85_4-6kMXP3QLo-0jZA68EKzgrTQoi2zar2Dt-pEAbNk/s1600/front+deck+flowers+2012.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Using a fine paint brush I followed the contours of the stamped metal. I added the tiny vein details to each wing then added some white dots. You can see the veins in this close up but not so much when it's outside in the yard. I also added a bit of glitter paint.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMEX5deevxFoVuF9D6I2loTcWoeN5qgXU3ChY4ofNpkCexP-5cgFrfmYfbMe7YNpLsqb8KNOk4Ug-XHidtz2vUs_ZPFyGBDb20a4CIuEw8LZo-ArmNxwyuU4MDXlpEe00nq7FXlsmVAE/s1600/dollar+butterflies+blue+and+ball+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="614" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMEX5deevxFoVuF9D6I2loTcWoeN5qgXU3ChY4ofNpkCexP-5cgFrfmYfbMe7YNpLsqb8KNOk4Ug-XHidtz2vUs_ZPFyGBDb20a4CIuEw8LZo-ArmNxwyuU4MDXlpEe00nq7FXlsmVAE/s1600/dollar+butterflies+blue+and+ball+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wow! I love the pop of color against the bright green. Notice you can't really see the glitter when it's outside. But in my colorful colorful garden this blue butterfly really holds it own!</div>
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And here is the Monarch version of my Dollar Store butterflies. What a fun project this has turned out to be!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMkX2p0_bT9P33DvELLTKbnn4oDnXmOa4g10t3TeKbCWrLiB9bmbVdXri-Uf5xGKLG1X5XzBxdaWc2UctAfex5pexMFpMgxAL1Fefw4_IxZHzV5nrY-KQjISjNMpachi6JiSu-F6Qot4/s1600/monarch+blue+ball+2-001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMkX2p0_bT9P33DvELLTKbnn4oDnXmOa4g10t3TeKbCWrLiB9bmbVdXri-Uf5xGKLG1X5XzBxdaWc2UctAfex5pexMFpMgxAL1Fefw4_IxZHzV5nrY-KQjISjNMpachi6JiSu-F6Qot4/s1600/monarch+blue+ball+2-001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-32084894868164092052020-12-20T20:00:00.001-08:002020-12-20T20:20:40.595-08:00Etching Glass is Easier Than You Think<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For years I was daunted by glass etching since it seemed borderline dangerous,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> what with the acid needed to "burn away" the image onto the glass.</div>
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But then I discovered Armour Etch creme and etching glass is one of my favorite ways</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> to make personalized gifts for family and friends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I name Armour Etch only because it is the most widely available creme </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">for this purpose and it is very simple to use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsfyCMNzs8uamozcPKX3jvAMgKlKmoiUymnbfFjVpHA54zncMtAHLcWFw8j7po-sifHTgh9zZNyaXnZfb8jVkvATO3IEKA7cDabaV59L5i1TnueR432yeN1uyyB-rKvlab1GT9PvW1uw/s1600/etch+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsfyCMNzs8uamozcPKX3jvAMgKlKmoiUymnbfFjVpHA54zncMtAHLcWFw8j7po-sifHTgh9zZNyaXnZfb8jVkvATO3IEKA7cDabaV59L5i1TnueR432yeN1uyyB-rKvlab1GT9PvW1uw/w458-h484/etch+1.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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Once you've picked out your glassware, you will need rubbing alcohol,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> contact paper (any print will do) and the etching creme.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Use the rubbing alcohol, NOT glass cleaner, to thoroughly clean the glass area you want to etch. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cover your work area with newspaper and wear latex gloves are advisable.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Done correctly, you need never touch the etching creme</div><div style="text-align: center;"> with your bare skinat all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kKXL120pdkeS0oPJuPUiFr2aAhtaxuMlOmtkduwpo29hf-q0II0IMbmT4nau1NUfjkA_fC0DVagJeiTRKQOwVUoi2bh4Rdrr4WbqeQHYUXKSRoPb8PSsw_M4LOQhBCNBaTledXf9jQg/s1600/etch+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kKXL120pdkeS0oPJuPUiFr2aAhtaxuMlOmtkduwpo29hf-q0II0IMbmT4nau1NUfjkA_fC0DVagJeiTRKQOwVUoi2bh4Rdrr4WbqeQHYUXKSRoPb8PSsw_M4LOQhBCNBaTledXf9jQg/w526-h460/etch+4.jpg" width="526" /></a></div>
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I chose a nice elegant font for these two steins and printed them out. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I taped them on top of the checked contact paper that is stuck to the glass and </div><div style="text-align: center;">ready to cut out with a razor knife. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've already cut the "t" in Whit.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I had this checked contact paper in my stash and I like how the squares </div><div style="text-align: center;">help me keep my design straight.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XDsJzpWMjPxjFg5dVo7sA6dhODSoWuxkdjh-4fUF2X60EkOAeXicnWEtxrrKxekDYwLt698qEpdgmtdN7S5_-xF6y1KkFErZbaYMZQGPEijh1T4tEoanvwtuRCDy75yywswWNyX_UCs/s1600/etch+5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1XDsJzpWMjPxjFg5dVo7sA6dhODSoWuxkdjh-4fUF2X60EkOAeXicnWEtxrrKxekDYwLt698qEpdgmtdN7S5_-xF6y1KkFErZbaYMZQGPEijh1T4tEoanvwtuRCDy75yywswWNyX_UCs/w436-h404/etch+5.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
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You can see how I've simplified to font for a cleaner look and also made it much easier to cut.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Remove the paper pattern and you're ready to etch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4Szv_kiQasqcQ0EGrM5PWQMmOlc0EktB4FDuXoJHaWI4Wrqrbno1m_z8K0hFKddQOPooh35YsLteaszes3JDNBuaxwo7MNeTDspUCL567UQ4jO_nhwCmAC1PIQVFa75zGYfZzgQE1Rs/s1600/etch+8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4Szv_kiQasqcQ0EGrM5PWQMmOlc0EktB4FDuXoJHaWI4Wrqrbno1m_z8K0hFKddQOPooh35YsLteaszes3JDNBuaxwo7MNeTDspUCL567UQ4jO_nhwCmAC1PIQVFa75zGYfZzgQE1Rs/w438-h462/etch+8.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
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Do NOT touch the creme to your bare skin!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> It contains hydrochloric acid in a creme suspension and it will burn you! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It smells like rotten eggs, too.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Be sure to work in a well ventilated space. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Only cover the cut out areas of your stencil and don't be stingy. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You want a good layer of creme to get a good pattern.</div>
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I use cheap Dollar Store q-tips to apply the creme. Usually the creme is a greyish</div><div style="text-align: center;"> white when new and also has a bit of grit, but this is an older jar.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Don't be put off by the color of the creme I am using. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought this jar several years ago and it is a long way from being used up. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Exposure to air over time turns it brown but it works perfectly fine. </div>
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Without removing the contact paper, set your glassware</div><div style="text-align: center;"> aside for 5 to 10 minutes so the acid cream can do its work. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Better to leave it on longer for a good etch. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It will not hurt the glass or burn through the contact paper in that time span.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MTFJ6vWLP4vwG04TMjjM0_JmI4BaPPwAAMEWNqSB0ioAsfCYP3emABeC_b4bVgNePmNCk16BFqRUCBBHLbm2xjzelWGv23DtsunZSlchG4TuTNQACQwKDkJ-IB4xZJZhmtcyFhVAu3A/s1600/etch+9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MTFJ6vWLP4vwG04TMjjM0_JmI4BaPPwAAMEWNqSB0ioAsfCYP3emABeC_b4bVgNePmNCk16BFqRUCBBHLbm2xjzelWGv23DtsunZSlchG4TuTNQACQwKDkJ-IB4xZJZhmtcyFhVAu3A/s640/etch+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before peeling off the contact paper rinse your creme covered glassware in cold running water. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rub the creme off with a paper towel or an old toothbrush til it is completely gone. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pat your glassware dry. </div>
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<br />Here comes the fun part!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Peel the contact paper from your glassware and grin like an idiot </div><div style="text-align: center;">when you see how the etched glass looks. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah, I do this every time.</div>
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I made these for a young couple whose birthdays are very close together. </div><div style="text-align: center;">They loved them! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And now they report that they use these steins</div><div style="text-align: center;"> for root beer floats or just pack 'em full of ice cream.</div>
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The etching creme is available at crafts stores and with a coupon is very affordable. </div>
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The Dollar Tree stocks cheap contact paper. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Once you have these two items you can etch glassware for years </div><div style="text-align: center;">and make beautiful personalized glassware for very little money but quite a bit of impact. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Dollar Tree and thrift stores are chock full of unique glassware. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just think of the possibilities.</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-61887848163191725272020-12-03T11:30:00.003-08:002020-12-03T11:30:02.094-08:00No Vinyl Cutter? No Problem! Make Freezer Paper Stencils for Tee Shirts this Christmas<p> </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made this cute Yoda tee for my son's birthday. I decided to go for something a bit more complex than just a simple "nerd" tee shirt, and boy, do I LOVE how this came out!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_N-ZQbVyhw1ZX_JAc8V6ixMCaTPXvBffTVAeV6AhZdRuL4WpxBX745sNA4Z6k4MrVnreN4nU3Z5Lxa-jxV-TewoZ4Rvd0dBms0FEjTnpyiKzVwzB5l-1tzFPC4rC22KWuPLSij8XZE/s1600/yoda+black+and+white.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_N-ZQbVyhw1ZX_JAc8V6ixMCaTPXvBffTVAeV6AhZdRuL4WpxBX745sNA4Z6k4MrVnreN4nU3Z5Lxa-jxV-TewoZ4Rvd0dBms0FEjTnpyiKzVwzB5l-1tzFPC4rC22KWuPLSij8XZE/w445-h430/yoda+black+and+white.jpg" width="445" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First I found two designs online that I knew he would like. The design on the left is from the movie Pacific Rim and it is the insignia for the Jaeger warrior robots. I decided to go for Yoda with the headphones.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHgSdXcbCciUjspIOkGV6hIvtsq2RrUHjmuuJN7VexsLHMbGi1PTSi-75RqncOaFryCzkmSbMu7lI7d4gqdNqja5TVsvVafVn2aHZ4LKE0ducLlP8NH138J4dBscQEqcgjc0fLkb9_Oc/s1600/stencil+pics.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHgSdXcbCciUjspIOkGV6hIvtsq2RrUHjmuuJN7VexsLHMbGi1PTSi-75RqncOaFryCzkmSbMu7lI7d4gqdNqja5TVsvVafVn2aHZ4LKE0ducLlP8NH138J4dBscQEqcgjc0fLkb9_Oc/w482-h330/stencil+pics.jpg" width="482" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I printed the design in black and white then taped a piece of freezer paper (shiny side down</div><div style="text-align: center;">) over the top. Make sure your freezer paper is a generous size so you </div><div style="text-align: center;">won't have any designs cut too close to the edge. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I used a razor craft knife which gives me a new, sharp cutting edge just by breaking off</div><div style="text-align: center;"> the blade at pre marked sizes. I also tape my design and freezer paper </div><div style="text-align: center;">to a mirror for good light and a nice sharp edge on my cuts.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDszpN-XIkSXOSnxVa1y9DA8mr91pQkmkPgpPnSsNtrkhofH8EjuRsH6Jl64yvyUNNIpiJBEsNVT-IAbNjXzk74gtnwMf9yD6bw4DKFUnUgsfIy4N6eGQQl30opqfzr_ojbxV9gIBPMU/s1600/time+to+cut.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDszpN-XIkSXOSnxVa1y9DA8mr91pQkmkPgpPnSsNtrkhofH8EjuRsH6Jl64yvyUNNIpiJBEsNVT-IAbNjXzk74gtnwMf9yD6bw4DKFUnUgsfIy4N6eGQQl30opqfzr_ojbxV9gIBPMU/w491-h351/time+to+cut.jpg" width="491" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I simplified the design a bit and premarked with an x for those parts which would be "free floating" and not attached to the rest of the design when I ironed it down. I prefer to do the floaters this way, other makers make narrow bridges to the rest of the design and then hand paint the bridges out on the tee shirt once the stencil painting is done. It is up to you!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GNapJv2OZP1ntjx7GGbtFCw6Gu5QZqbU3VTVvjGsOIMT_SlQjI0Rr6Xzn1kFsaiLZtTWAtnolCGh2CdjDwnyPxlm7Pvx1he1ol60TzanvLaSDeikvcQ87PWtb4855WR8OXWFUi81ZiM/s1600/stencil+cut+out.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GNapJv2OZP1ntjx7GGbtFCw6Gu5QZqbU3VTVvjGsOIMT_SlQjI0Rr6Xzn1kFsaiLZtTWAtnolCGh2CdjDwnyPxlm7Pvx1he1ol60TzanvLaSDeikvcQ87PWtb4855WR8OXWFUi81ZiM/w524-h330/stencil+cut+out.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-TZQ7g9EYONKBtEM_aflatH77K8KxwPX56ImPRbfLo8YxQP0vGA52Kk4MF9vm0WQ5A9Umkx5BXJ09U6B8xmvYbUci_THP3m__ZWSESfp_ABT6ZzMHUHn6nfMjCxTPncRiasv2rSdkvw/s1600/stencil+ironed+on.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-TZQ7g9EYONKBtEM_aflatH77K8KxwPX56ImPRbfLo8YxQP0vGA52Kk4MF9vm0WQ5A9Umkx5BXJ09U6B8xmvYbUci_THP3m__ZWSESfp_ABT6ZzMHUHn6nfMjCxTPncRiasv2rSdkvw/w435-h400/stencil+ironed+on.jpg" width="435" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here is Yoda ironed to the tee shirt, using a hot iron on a padded surface and NO STEAM. The wax paper layer on the freezer paper adheres nicely to the tee shirt when it is ironed, giving you a clean and immovable stencil.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKvdRUH4m6n8IbaIeOuPi8pk9kMC_BRo4sGvbUiHC9RTeCnDctg6JTH6LDT4181uCFIfBDvlWksxWSWf_P29et3VNat3Ir1h0ZZOa9-rT7vc-kXvp4faH6J6bFR971xgxYCiiQiRPeYU/s1600/paint+mix.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKvdRUH4m6n8IbaIeOuPi8pk9kMC_BRo4sGvbUiHC9RTeCnDctg6JTH6LDT4181uCFIfBDvlWksxWSWf_P29et3VNat3Ir1h0ZZOa9-rT7vc-kXvp4faH6J6bFR971xgxYCiiQiRPeYU/s320/paint+mix.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I prefer a mottled look to my tee shirt projects so here I have mixed black and </div><div style="text-align: center;">white acrylic craft paint with some textile medium (which is clear). I use a third of each</div><div style="text-align: center;"> and use a make up wedge to mix them up.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXB6xgbACbMHmqPPU_SqsYo9YdSMN98sOVbKw5mokAYNfGG2U9hiq2O9j_CxW3cuXkQqtWuRmuRdI1t1L8GlprW-mvHOP0FJourK2QlhlmQCEYMdx3mHxk1mkaXdJImD-CHDCVzk5Kkw/s1600/first+paint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXB6xgbACbMHmqPPU_SqsYo9YdSMN98sOVbKw5mokAYNfGG2U9hiq2O9j_CxW3cuXkQqtWuRmuRdI1t1L8GlprW-mvHOP0FJourK2QlhlmQCEYMdx3mHxk1mkaXdJImD-CHDCVzk5Kkw/w458-h400/first+paint.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Place a piece of cardboard inside the tee shirt then straighten it out on your work surface. Here you go!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pounce, or bounce, your painting sponge, or brush, straight up and down in each area of your stencil. Do NOT rub back and forth or you will lift the edges of the paper. Put on a light layer at first then go back and add more paint until you like the coverage you have. Remember, the paint will dry a lighter shade.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCl1-QGhqWslKuVn0Afays2Eqc_PCLIkOri35scBiTsRNj9U6CVWihsw3tY8nYHnIHUXYnFOn4owuKRDXaUn22stGlUA6nW_ROG9d-WwL2K0quA6eNOs-zjXB4gvz1xXGu02m6Wqp4r5o/s1600/yoda+painted.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCl1-QGhqWslKuVn0Afays2Eqc_PCLIkOri35scBiTsRNj9U6CVWihsw3tY8nYHnIHUXYnFOn4owuKRDXaUn22stGlUA6nW_ROG9d-WwL2K0quA6eNOs-zjXB4gvz1xXGu02m6Wqp4r5o/w451-h456/yoda+painted.jpg" width="451" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Do not wait until the paint is completely dry. Your stencil will stick to the paint! While your paint is still damp, carefully peel the freezer paper away from the tee shirt. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Oooh aaah!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_N-ZQbVyhw1ZX_JAc8V6ixMCaTPXvBffTVAeV6AhZdRuL4WpxBX745sNA4Z6k4MrVnreN4nU3Z5Lxa-jxV-TewoZ4Rvd0dBms0FEjTnpyiKzVwzB5l-1tzFPC4rC22KWuPLSij8XZE/s1600/yoda+black+and+white.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_N-ZQbVyhw1ZX_JAc8V6ixMCaTPXvBffTVAeV6AhZdRuL4WpxBX745sNA4Z6k4MrVnreN4nU3Z5Lxa-jxV-TewoZ4Rvd0dBms0FEjTnpyiKzVwzB5l-1tzFPC4rC22KWuPLSij8XZE/w433-h476/yoda+black+and+white.jpg" width="433" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I always add dry brushed high lights to give the designs a bit of dimension. This gives the already custom tee shirt design an even more unique look. As for laundry instructions? I wash these tees just like I do regular tee shirts but I turn them inside out. Cold wash, tumble dry. They hold up quite well and over the years the slight fading doesn't detract from the design. All in all this is one of my TOP favorite craft projects.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Our family gives out a TON of custom tee shirts at Christmas and this year will be no exception. In fact, I am starting to get special requests for sayings on tee shirts that will only have significance to the close family. Gotta love that! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://makethebestofthings.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-gallery-of-custom-freezer-paper.html">http://makethebestofthings.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-gallery-of-custom-freezer-paper.html</a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is a simple and inexpensive project for gifts or home decor all year long. You should try it out. You can do it and then you'll be hooked!</div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-22381467303891136432020-11-14T16:00:00.001-08:002020-11-14T16:08:46.035-08:00Stars from Drinking Straws-Himmeli!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few years back I noticed that these geometric Himmeli creations were getting alot of attention. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Traditionally a Finnish craft using wheat straw, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">they were made for Christmas and holidays, and just for fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF0yxGqAcTrH036sRG86zLt4Iz6YBTbk7jSfoH5mjLAYUqJXjTJcVqUjVJixQFrV8_V0K8m-JjWdxnrcRkhVkPNSPBeZNwsJasfwx1TTweTlpkps5ZoQH1tJOFu8R_ESN9Txi6P4x078/s1600/himmelli+shapes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF0yxGqAcTrH036sRG86zLt4Iz6YBTbk7jSfoH5mjLAYUqJXjTJcVqUjVJixQFrV8_V0K8m-JjWdxnrcRkhVkPNSPBeZNwsJasfwx1TTweTlpkps5ZoQH1tJOFu8R_ESN9Txi6P4x078/w492-h435/himmelli+shapes.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Long years ago, Life magazine had a feature article on Himmeli stars </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">made from drinking straws and our family made them for Christmas that year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyIhj6SNavDYzA747Fnw_mz-9JBqu6CdXFkQzSNI0onahi7r27muiPht9rF1Jj41uMR2o1c_QgthGj55uzDXhv4JVWJXPYIdUY-CN8icfheWxhEYc0N6OTuaObx_tChzblkb6TA03J8o/s1600/life+magazine+stars+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1600" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyIhj6SNavDYzA747Fnw_mz-9JBqu6CdXFkQzSNI0onahi7r27muiPht9rF1Jj41uMR2o1c_QgthGj55uzDXhv4JVWJXPYIdUY-CN8icfheWxhEYc0N6OTuaObx_tChzblkb6TA03J8o/s640/life+magazine+stars+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now that plastic drinking straws are being phased out, this craft is perfect </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">for the supplies still on hand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found this box of 1000 in a thrift shop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These can also made from paper straws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAh5ntbfhcNV4gpORilH89hDoy72wwyW01rDHUaNkCWlgr12-decZsbAwc9TL30VSlOWTKh5N4eq_GWpiHjWkXIiI3GM2pn4LxVVg5BZHAxT30Y1CsizrJnCPa3FMjgfGXPjjE91e8zw/s1600/DSCN4649.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAh5ntbfhcNV4gpORilH89hDoy72wwyW01rDHUaNkCWlgr12-decZsbAwc9TL30VSlOWTKh5N4eq_GWpiHjWkXIiI3GM2pn4LxVVg5BZHAxT30Y1CsizrJnCPa3FMjgfGXPjjE91e8zw/w414-h460/DSCN4649.JPG" width="414" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">I cut the straws in half and strung wire through them to make a series of triangles</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"> then attached them together to make the geometric ball in the center.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Leave the extra wire attached to trim away later when you are finished.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It will seem floppy and look a mess until you have attached enough</div><div style="text-align: center;"> triangles to give the ball structure and strength.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcCYLSAXtmhulsf84FoWImBZMietyQ3jYzQtYy4yv9BtDE2vsGUwi5Ab5LwmCsk74id7YdlCJslu56czq76us6b5Z90l5BnPT3NDMDyo5rhthTeDgBWA9DxjDtkXoCudzVVhJwlc3WvZ0/s1600/DSCN4626.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Wf_9xeWRzh6pMpv3vpOiygUHsOv3BfFlVrVQ0r9h0CWAcaZVvRY5Zh6StAGSdvuR4dKrDylZFULEWFi9OdPHCtzO6xdqvMOfRhmc_TEXRLcnYjUNJEg7Aal2TQMeRLv2H-3Yutrqzx4/s1600/DSCN4630.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1403" height="672" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Wf_9xeWRzh6pMpv3vpOiygUHsOv3BfFlVrVQ0r9h0CWAcaZVvRY5Zh6StAGSdvuR4dKrDylZFULEWFi9OdPHCtzO6xdqvMOfRhmc_TEXRLcnYjUNJEg7Aal2TQMeRLv2H-3Yutrqzx4/w635-h672/DSCN4630.JPG" width="635" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA_x64xyRr133RjGwMZaLgo-bSqhEhgBVrltFHyKh7MEwTpKLiWGmE2X1SDmHV3KDjW6Y54ppbGoOmHtpSrX1HloArhNEidfGybUX9Rt5gbN5HQ1inRo2I92vgAjiUSZsjbIAeOoQ6vyo/s1600/DSCN4624.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="725" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA_x64xyRr133RjGwMZaLgo-bSqhEhgBVrltFHyKh7MEwTpKLiWGmE2X1SDmHV3KDjW6Y54ppbGoOmHtpSrX1HloArhNEidfGybUX9Rt5gbN5HQ1inRo2I92vgAjiUSZsjbIAeOoQ6vyo/w585-h725/DSCN4624.JPG" width="585" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wire three long straws together and attach to the triangles that for your center ball. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Soon you will see how your spiky star ornament will look! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Carefully tighten the wire attachments and trim the ends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now you can hang your beautiful Himmeli star or spray paint it a </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">fun color or even, what fun, cover it with glitter!</div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And NOW I'm getting oh so fancy and using black straws for this </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">next wonderful project.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the start......</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQf7GwDcnXJF9XNy5sfqKmAI-R0hbDs5HpPmKcbrJ4GcFHDi9nd3doGwsFo5Lcy0iA0M6E0RvP9M9Rl9UltibeSukybk-n4vz-2wmIKe34Uw1_70phG2wV1iMRRUXnXrH98VKyR0xVj0/s1600/black+himmeli.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQQf7GwDcnXJF9XNy5sfqKmAI-R0hbDs5HpPmKcbrJ4GcFHDi9nd3doGwsFo5Lcy0iA0M6E0RvP9M9Rl9UltibeSukybk-n4vz-2wmIKe34Uw1_70phG2wV1iMRRUXnXrH98VKyR0xVj0/s640/black+himmeli.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A gorgeous Himmeli light fixture (with a low heat bulb of course!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will write up another post when it's done!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKNxuN6UgGp2WyEPadhGtDp2Zzu7frb5yYIhznGytXcOb9kqY1B88O5bO-bif75v8ZACBwzxGJyxU42eGf-tINeXde20hVA7u0Pf3c00DWB6ahThdVV7PeAYDX3QfXWbs9K2MmcygYMQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1140" height="553" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKNxuN6UgGp2WyEPadhGtDp2Zzu7frb5yYIhznGytXcOb9kqY1B88O5bO-bif75v8ZACBwzxGJyxU42eGf-tINeXde20hVA7u0Pf3c00DWB6ahThdVV7PeAYDX3QfXWbs9K2MmcygYMQ/w620-h553/image.png" width="620" /></a></div></div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-64487519848032809722020-11-07T08:00:00.001-08:002020-11-07T08:47:38.245-08:00BIG Two Foot Wide Wreath from a Hula Hoop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I wanted to make a BIG wreath for our door. It had to fit</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">around the rectangular window so I knew it needed to be </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">at least 24" wide.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A trip to the Dollar Tree gave me great ideas, including using a hula hoop base.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmJB5vxLU7uaxhyphenhyphen9oAY0AdlAXqzQ9ro4jNVeyflwtQ0N6d4R_wRy9Ewdp2N0fR0CBxtL_krWxnYVe1nWElxSzifEf5X5mXNuEucCJGClERCb96kTlrLgiV1ylB5l00vOlqNBSndqb0rE/s1600/Pictures84.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1209" height="453" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmJB5vxLU7uaxhyphenhyphen9oAY0AdlAXqzQ9ro4jNVeyflwtQ0N6d4R_wRy9Ewdp2N0fR0CBxtL_krWxnYVe1nWElxSzifEf5X5mXNuEucCJGClERCb96kTlrLgiV1ylB5l00vOlqNBSndqb0rE/w420-h453/Pictures84.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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I bought a hoop, a foam noodle and loads of colorful silk decor in </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">autumn colors and spent less than $15 for everything.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2nAnzFIvs5DLKg26PtiLoKTxzE_97qIIG2iDL_-PXtDBCHdqsxCkE2SNDJ_VOz0GoXd3oKtKAjtCZpT7KNX6U4NibaZMtCeHLcjviNTrwcZ_8bUX-WDTykxdh_2rXEeEv73YvEDxYpg/s1600/Pictures81-001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="1600" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2nAnzFIvs5DLKg26PtiLoKTxzE_97qIIG2iDL_-PXtDBCHdqsxCkE2SNDJ_VOz0GoXd3oKtKAjtCZpT7KNX6U4NibaZMtCeHLcjviNTrwcZ_8bUX-WDTykxdh_2rXEeEv73YvEDxYpg/w481-h379/Pictures81-001.jpg" width="481" /></a></div>
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I split the noodle lengthwise and hot glued it to the hoop so the wreath would be </div>
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flattish on the back side and plumpish on the front. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Those are technical terms, right?</div>
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Then I wrapped the foam and hoop in burlap type fabric. </div>
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By the way, the Dollar Store also has the best deal on lotsa sticks of hot glue for a buck.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZdesNnRsDLR22fDsfXP8tbODPXcWj4MMZ4x5mfVkVLQMNsSZ3Ad_GH6jJYEj-uj3TpewXvYZYvuCeFCUsSDxgs27E68u72-Q0xHJQ-8s9Gwy3D6eMQb1jvpOjWkvK-vGdlWTRn50vsI/s1600/birthday+wreath+6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="985" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZdesNnRsDLR22fDsfXP8tbODPXcWj4MMZ4x5mfVkVLQMNsSZ3Ad_GH6jJYEj-uj3TpewXvYZYvuCeFCUsSDxgs27E68u72-Q0xHJQ-8s9Gwy3D6eMQb1jvpOjWkvK-vGdlWTRn50vsI/w413-h498/birthday+wreath+6.jpg" width="413" /></a></div>
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Let the fun begin! I ended up cutting the leaf clusters off the garlands and</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> gluing them in place among the flowers on the front. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This eliminated any bulk on the flattish back side.</div>
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Just a side note...still LOVING the penny counter we put on my kitchen island this summer.</div>
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What a fun way to spend an hour or so...attaching pretty colorful flowers</div>
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to a giant wreath for autumn decor!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1QPBwKwLsp_O0IK0qsKLOwHu7y5XJvxMnvMpudiIi5t1TCJaWZ7ymneRfp1Dpy7LPDxwonntP5bOew0N21kI1OfMPhnF_nwOIVkhbyqc0MBLlWXEwWfj1ZqFc38p1QLvu-Gm11HVDVA/s1600/birthday+wreath+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1042" height="687" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1QPBwKwLsp_O0IK0qsKLOwHu7y5XJvxMnvMpudiIi5t1TCJaWZ7ymneRfp1Dpy7LPDxwonntP5bOew0N21kI1OfMPhnF_nwOIVkhbyqc0MBLlWXEwWfj1ZqFc38p1QLvu-Gm11HVDVA/w525-h687/birthday+wreath+1.jpg" width="525" /></a></div>
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Oooh aaah!</div>
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It's the perfect size to go around the window in the door </div>
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and it's exactly how I pictured it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWuUctBcdlZSX148a2qRVc6QKrwMWSili0MAd_MkN1cUkc4cXgSuHRzlQ217U6mn7a-kHz1vVyJRjLisGrx8XUbwqdcCp-o-8Osx5YWofMzbCI33fw2ehyphenhyphenacNNBDnUG1wgIBbW9BCFL4/s1600/Pictures82.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1407" data-original-width="1600" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWuUctBcdlZSX148a2qRVc6QKrwMWSili0MAd_MkN1cUkc4cXgSuHRzlQ217U6mn7a-kHz1vVyJRjLisGrx8XUbwqdcCp-o-8Osx5YWofMzbCI33fw2ehyphenhyphenacNNBDnUG1wgIBbW9BCFL4/w492-h399/Pictures82.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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Bonus close up shots just because.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWdEJdzHi8PEXL0Or46vfmJdTKTbPnlnKr20drxxrxJO4E7lKaJEh3FX1hjOHWPaHH1LB0Bb6WQBvp-pzb05j7z213X9_0Z2Kr25d5W0sqyEOOr0H1T7_HgCxjvIF-im_eKb7OYlaglo/s1600/Pictures82-001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1581" data-original-width="1600" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWdEJdzHi8PEXL0Or46vfmJdTKTbPnlnKr20drxxrxJO4E7lKaJEh3FX1hjOHWPaHH1LB0Bb6WQBvp-pzb05j7z213X9_0Z2Kr25d5W0sqyEOOr0H1T7_HgCxjvIF-im_eKb7OYlaglo/w517-h451/Pictures82-001.jpg" width="517" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">During the year I'll hit yard sales and thrift stores for more</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">colorful things to put on this wreath.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hula hoop door wreath...I think we have a winner!</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-65127198202797092022020-11-07T08:00:00.000-08:002020-11-07T08:36:21.010-08:00Easy DIY Lighted Autumn Hurricane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a unique...and easy...DIY for stunning autumn decor.</div>
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I "filled" a tall hurricane glass so that the garlands and lights stood tall</div>
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inside the glass.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoezJcPNdHy_jurMkBBBZkJ7ww7qr_cyUUOXfHAyvRBu3OfZ21L2kpqHTjdkfiTwKvO76FQF2OcShCEuUgtsMFzMIbVyhYNBOBQKYjC5iiQP8sg_ia5ofZyB7TA4W1GtE5ZJ8573kmCs/s1600/glass+hurricane+collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1600" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoezJcPNdHy_jurMkBBBZkJ7ww7qr_cyUUOXfHAyvRBu3OfZ21L2kpqHTjdkfiTwKvO76FQF2OcShCEuUgtsMFzMIbVyhYNBOBQKYjC5iiQP8sg_ia5ofZyB7TA4W1GtE5ZJ8573kmCs/s640/glass+hurricane+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I scored this 20" tall hurricane glass for $2 at a yard sale </div>
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and I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4FKxAGfp9MWIlsnmtsp3Yt4AeoLQSJuRFAKX6mSDMd3staJ9iJFZSPFrRAPgG5fboMiFwL_YgRyoL93OH4j82NxQ3YGeIsQwQgpwyWtQj4dF4bPWh-1Q7aAHvyYjXZ8sPiHCA7livGU/s1600/blog+hurricane+supplies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4FKxAGfp9MWIlsnmtsp3Yt4AeoLQSJuRFAKX6mSDMd3staJ9iJFZSPFrRAPgG5fboMiFwL_YgRyoL93OH4j82NxQ3YGeIsQwQgpwyWtQj4dF4bPWh-1Q7aAHvyYjXZ8sPiHCA7livGU/s400/blog+hurricane+supplies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had Dollar Store leaf garlands and white twinkle lights in my stash</div>
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so I wrapped them together to make one string.</div>
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The problem was they would not stand up and fill the glass. Even wiring the garland to the top edge of the glass didn't fill the glass the way I was picturing.</div>
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Here's the simple solution!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVnLM9RwI-9RX_QFjm3s_VUk-_r5wnyjqbuB0aYKlHEkYUTtWc03lKdlPkeFU9SWhh8m07o2CXbQfkERfZ43FKSEMalW1Zw2Yb8ku_616GghHwfjFrecBGFyLVTdkhfCa6t7iezc9jDgM/s1600/blog+hurricane+dowel+wrap.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVnLM9RwI-9RX_QFjm3s_VUk-_r5wnyjqbuB0aYKlHEkYUTtWc03lKdlPkeFU9SWhh8m07o2CXbQfkERfZ43FKSEMalW1Zw2Yb8ku_616GghHwfjFrecBGFyLVTdkhfCa6t7iezc9jDgM/s400/blog+hurricane+dowel+wrap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Take a dowel that is just a little shorter than your glass. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Cover it with some autumn paper or paint it to match. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I used leaf printed napkins and wrapped them around diagonally.</div>
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NOW, wire your lighted garland to one end, making sure the plug end for </div><div style="text-align: center;">your lights comes out at the top or bottom, as you wish.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdYwFNwO8A9tHyXSP3Cg_MrzRDk2hdHBNf2wxkBMm4c4VvxoGgYOuzm6sIi9SH8rIYfzYdwStm07E4XjETQMP9xZFJhK6iE5CEesd3dLgHUwK-XE3NhEBCsX59DgAbIKRp39QvoMDbOc/s1600/blog+hurricane+lit+up.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1080" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdYwFNwO8A9tHyXSP3Cg_MrzRDk2hdHBNf2wxkBMm4c4VvxoGgYOuzm6sIi9SH8rIYfzYdwStm07E4XjETQMP9xZFJhK6iE5CEesd3dLgHUwK-XE3NhEBCsX59DgAbIKRp39QvoMDbOc/w420-h512/blog+hurricane+lit+up.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tada! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Your pretty lighted garland will stand up and</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> fill your glass from top to bottom!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW485wgFtZY9pSsCemRs_A_KJ6o5NDU5Ya8tiRLeoj9K7cEcSuXumYI0jv2iU2LIvZNP1tFT7WUHe9bENIJJDiT5trNMOKLu45F3ehEFlZTNcN6WBsUJjd4ERgRNy2R5QWvDVWd17vG3I/s1600/DSC01439.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1595" data-original-width="1600" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW485wgFtZY9pSsCemRs_A_KJ6o5NDU5Ya8tiRLeoj9K7cEcSuXumYI0jv2iU2LIvZNP1tFT7WUHe9bENIJJDiT5trNMOKLu45F3ehEFlZTNcN6WBsUJjd4ERgRNy2R5QWvDVWd17vG3I/w490-h538/DSC01439.JPG" width="490" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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I loved the look so much I did the same thing to a tall pasta jar </div><div style="text-align: center;">and put both of them on top of a tall bookcase. </div>
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The mirror behind them reflects the colors and lights</div><div style="text-align: center;"> into the room and looks dazzling.</div>
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I did a safety check on both containers and found the lights were only warm, </div>
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not hot, so this display is safe.</div>
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My kids are kind of blase with all my decorating projects but my grandkids </div><div style="text-align: center;">and great grandkids still react with wonder and delight </div><div style="text-align: center;">when they come to visit our autumn house.</div>
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So, easy DIY lighting project plus kids' smiling faces?</div>
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Win win!</div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-55372554413107362822020-09-26T13:26:00.001-07:002020-09-26T13:29:40.342-07:00Easter Eggs to Giant Acorns DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am ready to start decorating for Fall so I crashed my stash and</div>
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found these large size Easter eggs from the Dollar Store.</div>
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I knew I could make something perfect for my autumn decor...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuY8v7rW0Z2I7FWmTPsVv2-uelD5gi0uZ-TUvIMitv5T6Wm0S6brYMjNICOtAz2Mfe0s3AV8Vf6BqQVQBVAsI4CU0WoH1A9xppZDuc_Gx59VDHnUCBeiz4WPbq_vvSqJ4q3AqM6H-uwug/s1600/large+plastic+eggs.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1503" data-original-width="1600" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuY8v7rW0Z2I7FWmTPsVv2-uelD5gi0uZ-TUvIMitv5T6Wm0S6brYMjNICOtAz2Mfe0s3AV8Vf6BqQVQBVAsI4CU0WoH1A9xppZDuc_Gx59VDHnUCBeiz4WPbq_vvSqJ4q3AqM6H-uwug/w640-h600/large+plastic+eggs.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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...and here's what I did with them. </div>
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I made giant acorns!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ubRE3QzLZM8fw9VJyhazG4uN1V8jdKoiXsOFvnmipcQa8k6DMlxB7_Fu0gwWiZC1sQw_qVrILzBCbK7AYYgtXcumLY5HO6hFtYYhKFB7x4c3kfyQzEw_WCSWvZi0o1vK74qnq91IeiE/s1600/burlap+acorns+5a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="400" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ubRE3QzLZM8fw9VJyhazG4uN1V8jdKoiXsOFvnmipcQa8k6DMlxB7_Fu0gwWiZC1sQw_qVrILzBCbK7AYYgtXcumLY5HO6hFtYYhKFB7x4c3kfyQzEw_WCSWvZi0o1vK74qnq91IeiE/w640-h578/burlap+acorns+5a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like them alot!</div>
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Here's how...I started by painting the eggs brown with craft paint.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVOnVkJwo8ZXI2ygia5Xjnw4wOjo32HOhHVn0K95XaiKCGgj0m9mbMPAcbeH3aytDyiXDJCZ4_WjIbT6R3UVAQ6HxAMav9YnmUu_vpmQABPYX7V0mCuv7T6RZiKCbqLgoMATYCpotMVc/s1600/burlap+acorns+2a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="400" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVOnVkJwo8ZXI2ygia5Xjnw4wOjo32HOhHVn0K95XaiKCGgj0m9mbMPAcbeH3aytDyiXDJCZ4_WjIbT6R3UVAQ6HxAMav9YnmUu_vpmQABPYX7V0mCuv7T6RZiKCbqLgoMATYCpotMVc/w640-h384/burlap+acorns+2a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I cut ovals out of burlap and hot glued them around the eggs with plenty of pleats. </div>
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Let the glue cool completely. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLC6sKTiNxIoCbArpXDSGcacTi0Y6FtRgBoTX_pfSpVb3gqcaDtl_MB0a7I1WX3dWjImtd3H2OsrYGplGDaeeNDSy0OFp3Ki93xC3rRGvcX-tdxUrlEwsxQpeVPpIJB5nDASTZGZghl4/s1600/burlap+acorns+3a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="640" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLC6sKTiNxIoCbArpXDSGcacTi0Y6FtRgBoTX_pfSpVb3gqcaDtl_MB0a7I1WX3dWjImtd3H2OsrYGplGDaeeNDSy0OFp3Ki93xC3rRGvcX-tdxUrlEwsxQpeVPpIJB5nDASTZGZghl4/s640/burlap+acorns+3a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used a deconstructed pine cone for the first one I made but I wasn't thrilled with the way it looked.</div>
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I decided to make the next ones using only the smaller, </div>
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rounder end of the eggs. Plenty of hot glue held wrapped garden twine</div>
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around the top of my acorn shape.</div>
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I like the way this one came out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAym6g6yCT7fkpGgxGLRInXN1d6FcUJyLAxvsMmaxuTGmLrbSFMXQ8kvp0e6VkOr1qjGRZb2LGpEOOauOoquGXAG4_-PnfVHb6N1e2Wq77gVKxVkgGlhQih6xhZm1qI1KF5tXSFA_TUg/s1600/burlap+acorns+6a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAym6g6yCT7fkpGgxGLRInXN1d6FcUJyLAxvsMmaxuTGmLrbSFMXQ8kvp0e6VkOr1qjGRZb2LGpEOOauOoquGXAG4_-PnfVHb6N1e2Wq77gVKxVkgGlhQih6xhZm1qI1KF5tXSFA_TUg/s640/burlap+acorns+6a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A short twig makes a nice stem and now I've got this figured out. </div>
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Then I made several more and displayed them in a wood bowl with</div>
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my home made faux moss balls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Q2q9gxrI-OIVfWKlwgf3hEmM37HdPQPngyNfLdeQ0esskgP8FFncjtT2nRK4HIEFaZ6Ev9BLCSJrsHZ9DfW721V6ZD9WeQy-QH8K65ptauwlDVaqYEHZ7qCM6SvO8QPp638Cyl5Gfgk/s1600/burlap+acorns+7a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="400" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Q2q9gxrI-OIVfWKlwgf3hEmM37HdPQPngyNfLdeQ0esskgP8FFncjtT2nRK4HIEFaZ6Ev9BLCSJrsHZ9DfW721V6ZD9WeQy-QH8K65ptauwlDVaqYEHZ7qCM6SvO8QPp638Cyl5Gfgk/s640/burlap+acorns+7a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM__CaiPuoQpNnehRHyCrcY_oXWc8l58NwYNSZWztSd7FOwKUwHKg1JLfgLOKTGmXrNzpqTLpLtfULZr0-ciyirZ6udQhjGDHs16i32Igs-tgYlxKJyC4Sx6eoXRpxPGS0dv6pYiPASog/s1600/burlap+acorns+8a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="640" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM__CaiPuoQpNnehRHyCrcY_oXWc8l58NwYNSZWztSd7FOwKUwHKg1JLfgLOKTGmXrNzpqTLpLtfULZr0-ciyirZ6udQhjGDHs16i32Igs-tgYlxKJyC4Sx6eoXRpxPGS0dv6pYiPASog/s640/burlap+acorns+8a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So which ones do you prefer? The wrapped twine toppers or the pinecone parts? </div>
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Either way they sure look good and are perfect for my autumn tablescape.</div>
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The total cost is $1 for six eggs and another $1 for the garden twine.</div>
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That's a win win in my book!</div>
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<br />Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-31861709428492162402020-08-03T13:47:00.001-07:002020-08-03T13:47:37.567-07:00Repaint That Door Mat!<div style="text-align: center;">Got an ugly old black door mat on your porch?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Remake it into something PRETTY with paint!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's how....</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> <img height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvjUmCPRXCALmuk0bEmdjLiZXuUcD3hdNv664lw4n38_wzT-JEiGofiWi_eYFKHAyfTWQGsvJQCsD6m2mw6fHDkknIfGplXIOx_4361IftqoA_rcVaBq7sWnpbFZ1oXsuf0N00ME0FKM/w590-h344/?authuser=0" width="590" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is our old black door mat. Not worn out by any means and certainly not pretty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">By the way, this is NOT my idea but when I saw it online I decided to repaint our mat right away. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Lc16CJ0LnUwbwvzLUr2-lrBzq6VpnhcxbEvzGtIkCcVThOWQycJJJHFrHnQIR7AocZa61pEpL9ws-VFvEZeLV9wsuFsEIYTQNoc7jH0mXfJuOK72SeVv1Ad2CYJOUDYTq5odzs4Bl8U/w490-h430/?authuser=0" width="490" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I used black spray paint first then two shades of blue Rustoleum for plastic for the basic color blocks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLykn9HaKFwyiTraBI7qxL2whQ1e_XgfpOP4S79tg9iKxNESSvFNlcaPIKXRii6CM6VnlajLiWzjUduUoBFmBpBqTd8NpjdpFMdKVgcJZshW6xAUIRJOBs5ouAR2S27o3etI0ESaa9ns/w558-h342/?authuser=0" width="558" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Then I used regular craft acrylic paint to detail the black areas and clean up the colored curlicues.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4xhyphenhyphenvfbXovhWA6GScnS5rC3G-cYeb7ye6yEb1MceC4-CIW56lLpG_MPNbtAHlrcamV0OKoMyjOc19J1oTUmdzRDw7J59YNsUy0o8rtfj16ovvteQDy0hjnC3qGV2hCycioRync5U2B8/w382-h430/?authuser=0" width="382" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Then sealed with clear acrylic spray and let it dry in the sunshine.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oooh look!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKz62HwygNav2D_am8Sj8O3MoJfxRquu33wLsXRyBYCWDQ1xConCxEke_2gI8luVF_oB5vx4kfMrQ6-p8BEwX3TFA7-Yl1Wt-J1KAuDTNxM7cdV_kD0eWQaDv_UbGkmqnjT7d51QoASs/w554-h344/?authuser=0" width="554" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Only a couple of hours and it came out so pretty!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpMv9ZOyKrDr5dcDmpodrA8_iNof7O69H_WPmyHitc_wa-wTMe55WBVXnZ4jilOxrr-JHegLw3e7qEUZ0i606lhYXe8FbmdMis4TozLwpOWkSWJ8tyicKdbf3NmYmg-TdIW-QG_2_Bbk/w512-h274/?authuser=0" width="512" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I already had everything I needed for this project...door mat, spray paint, brushes, craft paint and sealer so it didn't cost me any $$$$</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Aaaaand....I have three more door mats ready for painting!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll post those here on my blog as I do them.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Such a fast, fun, thrifty and neat project!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbgWVI95ojKDk0VT68BfLcYmRCR3AYwkIlDI40Vz3AtI8spCGaKQNnek5AxyR2FzHNcU6_MZk6FMMKGLR79KMdVsbW0b1X3NQS_ApUcHF6g9NXlOoEIBl16OLji7GMGKnVypUW2qBiCo/w434-h536/?authuser=0" width="434" /></div>Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-78201113013016935312020-07-02T17:25:00.000-07:002020-07-02T17:25:47.031-07:00Turquoise Chalk Paint Coffee Table <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the short story....</div>
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I painted this mid 70's "Mediterannean style" coffee table with turquoise DIY chalk paint.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAzOuNMhhr0LTiE1KBOIK8OnZ1qpXImiLDYF6L0jmR9dqNRYZm6h6HOtwy0tdfapr0O8sKccImR5zZ__dbZ7ulUc_8Z0DoBbXboB6Ye8wVXqs2NWblm87xrIucYo2pP7l3typXt-JSpY/s1600/table+done+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAzOuNMhhr0LTiE1KBOIK8OnZ1qpXImiLDYF6L0jmR9dqNRYZm6h6HOtwy0tdfapr0O8sKccImR5zZ__dbZ7ulUc_8Z0DoBbXboB6Ye8wVXqs2NWblm87xrIucYo2pP7l3typXt-JSpY/s640/table+done+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's the longer story....</div>
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Back in '82 we had a TOTAL LOSS house fire. </div>
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We refurnished our home with auction finds like this very heavy, </div>
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very BROWN, <u>very well built</u> coffee table.</div>
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Three full grown adults can STAND on this coffee table.</div>
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Four teen age girls can DANCE on this table.</div>
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Five toddlers can race their Hot Wheels round and round this table.</div>
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We paid $7 for it 34 years ago.</div>
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Yup.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxevwvdpcfSlZNDM0Ni7F6EgOxcf3nSF5w2FtAWWCVfjAn7azSjwPsKdAUUBZtmzK8g7fSeW538slVQV-xapouaSN959GA6R06V_ORCfLsmLp4isAvIWLvrCJmTZHKd7wQk6m_bBFmqUI/s1600/DSC00206.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxevwvdpcfSlZNDM0Ni7F6EgOxcf3nSF5w2FtAWWCVfjAn7azSjwPsKdAUUBZtmzK8g7fSeW538slVQV-xapouaSN959GA6R06V_ORCfLsmLp4isAvIWLvrCJmTZHKd7wQk6m_bBFmqUI/s640/DSC00206.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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About ten years ago I repainted the top in a fun pattern that added all my living room colors.</div>
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Brown, turquoise gold, red...you get the picture.</div>
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Yeah, I'm kind of a color junkie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2qzSCN5P9NJ0VT-EB-5zJ2DBfPTMHOx9eDS671OQHHGeRNr_jCact6L7gZUMh1kVC8ix-FdD0J4nrq64XOZNtPiMacxEK5Axl8B07KkMcknbbg5qFRCEI5eX9WpGI6s7xogkbC5RqdE/s1600/coffee+table+before.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2qzSCN5P9NJ0VT-EB-5zJ2DBfPTMHOx9eDS671OQHHGeRNr_jCact6L7gZUMh1kVC8ix-FdD0J4nrq64XOZNtPiMacxEK5Axl8B07KkMcknbbg5qFRCEI5eX9WpGI6s7xogkbC5RqdE/s640/coffee+table+before.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Then I did THIS...</div>
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using a DIY chalk paint recipe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAzOuNMhhr0LTiE1KBOIK8OnZ1qpXImiLDYF6L0jmR9dqNRYZm6h6HOtwy0tdfapr0O8sKccImR5zZ__dbZ7ulUc_8Z0DoBbXboB6Ye8wVXqs2NWblm87xrIucYo2pP7l3typXt-JSpY/s1600/table+done+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAzOuNMhhr0LTiE1KBOIK8OnZ1qpXImiLDYF6L0jmR9dqNRYZm6h6HOtwy0tdfapr0O8sKccImR5zZ__dbZ7ulUc_8Z0DoBbXboB6Ye8wVXqs2NWblm87xrIucYo2pP7l3typXt-JSpY/s640/table+done+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I topped it off with brushed on, wiped off Minwax Polyshades in Olde Maple.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdGYXbF6ioQMT2_8svhOpawBFIrozEfzCtXDEOo39OLANL97LRGl8NZqCMOUzM3qXuDwZekmhtIekNqyWtLElQuxbQQVbTj6mYJMFxU_6Ng8S4QXRuy3lmEzI-XO35ffW6VhNHQhe1o4/s1600/recipe+coffee+table+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdGYXbF6ioQMT2_8svhOpawBFIrozEfzCtXDEOo39OLANL97LRGl8NZqCMOUzM3qXuDwZekmhtIekNqyWtLElQuxbQQVbTj6mYJMFxU_6Ng8S4QXRuy3lmEzI-XO35ffW6VhNHQhe1o4/s320/recipe+coffee+table+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Chalk paint recipes are EVERYWHERE online. I used this really simple one.</div>
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1 cup latex paint</div>
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1/2 c baking soda</div>
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3 TBSP water</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWtezKOHOGC8Yu7Im943eCQGZZNUf1vH2_TiBW_b7uDoOzswHOuzfLUJSiwC1xaCw9mt6ksnN4yNn76l86BbYcT1Qsf4htX1DlRWKp9TTt1B0kDqEujZS6edyvGHSli2GnQ6Ptta__X4/s1600/DSC00224.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWtezKOHOGC8Yu7Im943eCQGZZNUf1vH2_TiBW_b7uDoOzswHOuzfLUJSiwC1xaCw9mt6ksnN4yNn76l86BbYcT1Qsf4htX1DlRWKp9TTt1B0kDqEujZS6edyvGHSli2GnQ6Ptta__X4/s640/DSC00224.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I masked the top with regular masking tape. It did a fine job on all the edges.</div>
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This chalk paint recipe adhered REALLY well. It was a little bit gritty but I wanted that effect. Be aware of this if you use the baking soda chalk paint recipe!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZg4176Z2IuFnniLj3wqi0QocfplCim0JQlwoiyURn4yKlMtPRgV7outJ_3DrRAF_jp63xa3-Gprix3NOUlFp9ggjSejIrjEDJKGUdsW8uQ1ZSgTroA1F_IGfGWsjZhB2DhNUALXJBe8/s1600/DSC00236.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZg4176Z2IuFnniLj3wqi0QocfplCim0JQlwoiyURn4yKlMtPRgV7outJ_3DrRAF_jp63xa3-Gprix3NOUlFp9ggjSejIrjEDJKGUdsW8uQ1ZSgTroA1F_IGfGWsjZhB2DhNUALXJBe8/s640/DSC00236.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I couldn't find my sanding block, and even though the hardware store is less than a mile away, I used this to sand the edges....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRuBWuDgl5s2ZMs_4Zo_ha_sD0yk3vWX4s0n3fEMF-qZsUDWtL28qc_iuvnUKlj9Go8mGCUxXoAjOOcfB8YLFfHW57-dD-G3mCwI7rycUnwekg9dp6xJ8twjPaaiYBlM31bY4vvuhHkc/s1600/DSC00258.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRuBWuDgl5s2ZMs_4Zo_ha_sD0yk3vWX4s0n3fEMF-qZsUDWtL28qc_iuvnUKlj9Go8mGCUxXoAjOOcfB8YLFfHW57-dD-G3mCwI7rycUnwekg9dp6xJ8twjPaaiYBlM31bY4vvuhHkc/s400/DSC00258.JPG" width="396" /></a></div>
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Don't tell me you've never done something like that.</div>
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Here is the door with just chalk paint and with the Minwax stain. </div>
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The door is molded plastic. The chalk paint worked great. </div>
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The Minwax was a bit messy but I fussed with it until it looked like this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTxhDFAiWkpT6mT3jN1eNsdXqH1lbX-YORK5DdPMjIqc6zkUJx8mxuVAcLmsaW6DDAmB7I2ltrjUdLtxGhhmbrqZioGBWxPkarx72Jp1Etacn1s8H05g9jaydbgIaPPapcIz7MHmfPWE/s1600/coffee+table+chalk+paint+blog1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTxhDFAiWkpT6mT3jN1eNsdXqH1lbX-YORK5DdPMjIqc6zkUJx8mxuVAcLmsaW6DDAmB7I2ltrjUdLtxGhhmbrqZioGBWxPkarx72Jp1Etacn1s8H05g9jaydbgIaPPapcIz7MHmfPWE/s640/coffee+table+chalk+paint+blog1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And below is how she looks now.</div>
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I LOVE the way this came out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitI1WusWwVuvJPTdhh2-R7crgYFHrBdUPhYpXbbaY3XnL7kHeVG5yAyPGNedSaRKzdpGxtBgRoup5n0GER28M8JUt8oudQQzccsqqA-RZGdd0Y3rYrOHBildfU03Gt5MLNP6VZSYzKpI/s1600/table+done+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitI1WusWwVuvJPTdhh2-R7crgYFHrBdUPhYpXbbaY3XnL7kHeVG5yAyPGNedSaRKzdpGxtBgRoup5n0GER28M8JUt8oudQQzccsqqA-RZGdd0Y3rYrOHBildfU03Gt5MLNP6VZSYzKpI/s640/table+done+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Again, the before and after.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3SZj4v4MgkTuPaHgq0cMNW7dqWpw5zytxymrxErZkW6WrTps7AB6bENc1rkiufCZP1N3764wzN9q-zwKmF-12BuuHOldPiQCxiGjuj0kKsQV4E8MXtySjT0AABljYyzHRNHVUe9uha8/s1600/coffee+table+chalk+paint+blog+collage+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3SZj4v4MgkTuPaHgq0cMNW7dqWpw5zytxymrxErZkW6WrTps7AB6bENc1rkiufCZP1N3764wzN9q-zwKmF-12BuuHOldPiQCxiGjuj0kKsQV4E8MXtySjT0AABljYyzHRNHVUe9uha8/s640/coffee+table+chalk+paint+blog+collage+1.jpg" width="566" /></a></div>
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The chalk paint adhered very well and the Polyshades gave her just the right worn out vintage aura.</div>
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Because, folks, even tho she's pretty, we don't treat her very well. Lol!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8jiwxdiohxjM4LqdXTXuT4WrBEXPSy8NNxS4fXQnJOvBitK5NFGw1MDJQNGWfqcGFAVoYNCX1dHJNIiPXTcbN4Gpk41PFq6PvZ9GxOaxDSpwaz0FqCIRXKAq90pLEbNgT2Bnxc4y0GA/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8jiwxdiohxjM4LqdXTXuT4WrBEXPSy8NNxS4fXQnJOvBitK5NFGw1MDJQNGWfqcGFAVoYNCX1dHJNIiPXTcbN4Gpk41PFq6PvZ9GxOaxDSpwaz0FqCIRXKAq90pLEbNgT2Bnxc4y0GA/s640/DSC00248.JPG" width="506" /></a></div>
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This table is the Official Grandbaby Play Platform Put Your Feet Up And Set a Spell Stand On Top To Sing Karaoke And Dance to Uptown Funk Table!!</div>
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They don't make coffee tables this sturdy anymore. </div>
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So, here's the cost breakdown....</div>
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Turquoise Apple Barrel Paint $2.50</div>
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Olde Maple Minwax Polyshades $7.00</div>
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Total...less than $10.00.</div>
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I already had paint brushes, cleaning rags, baking soda, assorted brushes and of course, an emery board, in my stash.</div>
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This took me less than 3 hours to paint then overnight for the paint to dry.</div>
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I brushed then wiped off the Minwax the next morning. I used half a dozen rags during this part.</div>
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The stain was dry by late afternoon and she was back in service that evening for a family dinner.</div>
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Cheap, pretty quick and an outstanding result.</div>
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I call that a win win!</div>
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<br />Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-55589927179991753802020-06-17T09:28:00.000-07:002020-06-17T09:28:00.914-07:00Vine Ball Rescue with Wire!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Back in 2014 I made this vine ball for cheap, because I didn't want to buy</div>
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one this size for $24!</div>
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It looked perfect in this aged, chipped urn planter for several years.</div>
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I made a base framework with wooden embroidery hoops and a thrift store grapevine garland. I soaked it in hot water and gently took it apart to make this ball.</div>
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I LOVED how it looked!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQQSGV_Q2dvwrs36bXkjXQfC486UCsPOdL9ajXW4aCGOjgSZ648_xbNIkSwFyBMJJS0oxdROJpEKY-bsty87Jhc0W-W_8rTeVRH58GTqj7nZwETnhGW8JLHjk25ozbxj0pFgo0ph6ZVw/s1600/vine+ball+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="490" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQQSGV_Q2dvwrs36bXkjXQfC486UCsPOdL9ajXW4aCGOjgSZ648_xbNIkSwFyBMJJS0oxdROJpEKY-bsty87Jhc0W-W_8rTeVRH58GTqj7nZwETnhGW8JLHjk25ozbxj0pFgo0ph6ZVw/s640/vine+ball+1.jpg" width="489" /></a></div>
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But now, 6 years later the vines are breaking down and the ball is looking really sad.</div>
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Even spray painting it blue last year didn't save it.</div>
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So this year I decided to revamp it with WIRE, not vines,</div>
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and I couldn't be happier with the results!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdiNLVAmCmmdWiUNZu08XlE8pSG0G2MjaqLnzMkFGZvQn_d-4Fc5rZKUW301S16UzqMRKk_jklja3CFa5HgkwQbtJLfTqSXsJ9SQdAOBlXWV_DeyaQTPbQyC-Ze6G3K4Lcfw0_PhuEjo/s1600/wire+vine+ball+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="383" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdiNLVAmCmmdWiUNZu08XlE8pSG0G2MjaqLnzMkFGZvQn_d-4Fc5rZKUW301S16UzqMRKk_jklja3CFa5HgkwQbtJLfTqSXsJ9SQdAOBlXWV_DeyaQTPbQyC-Ze6G3K4Lcfw0_PhuEjo/s640/wire+vine+ball+1.jpg" width="539" /></a></div>
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Hardware stores and building supplies have this roll of wire and </div>
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even at our small town hardware it was only $4. </div>
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It is called "tie wire" and is used to hold rebar together for cement projects.</div>
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It is super easy to work with and did I mention CHEAP?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzCnWLxlry_I9VhYE4zEewOjg8Qn1Jlsz-aBUPSqn3CsR_z4KpWDqeYw5a3Lr401xqaMmU8Uf4TsQyUYIVYAoSiVRA0gkVYk4Qqc48j6PQjYRbZ1uMwV5mNpxBM8TnJZ45VdyDQCtDK4/s1600/wire+vine+ball+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="407" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzCnWLxlry_I9VhYE4zEewOjg8Qn1Jlsz-aBUPSqn3CsR_z4KpWDqeYw5a3Lr401xqaMmU8Uf4TsQyUYIVYAoSiVRA0gkVYk4Qqc48j6PQjYRbZ1uMwV5mNpxBM8TnJZ45VdyDQCtDK4/s640/wire+vine+ball+2.jpg" width="604" /></a></div>
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Here is that sad vine ball with about 20 wraps of tie wire. </div>
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I cut the wire into four foot lengths to make it manageable.</div>
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It took less than an hour to return the sad orb to an awesome ball once again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhq4rYxZoWm2Uj1DcrtFp95oETjk2EyN1NhyZ8P682i4m9FNa7yPOfw25to2O-NDVHhm9uyD-g1y6ZuV1ZkoLEF7fnJ1QnAyaaxb2P0gpMjSwOXViQQZP1rooJEP0drVY-aizT-Il6Tqc/s1600/wire+vine+ball+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhq4rYxZoWm2Uj1DcrtFp95oETjk2EyN1NhyZ8P682i4m9FNa7yPOfw25to2O-NDVHhm9uyD-g1y6ZuV1ZkoLEF7fnJ1QnAyaaxb2P0gpMjSwOXViQQZP1rooJEP0drVY-aizT-Il6Tqc/s400/wire+vine+ball+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I decided to spray paint the ball with the colors I had on hand...both sort of turquoise blue.</div>
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Then I made two more balls and painted them, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_FECg9kYQiYEGMj5tJbAXIskRZlXTUlUmF3bh8ZWyMKSzYl9w9JmTKytngQKMvhcMU3aTRy0U5aWcpr1y270aKl5-HoQpfDohee43bA1ZYOb8hJMYDN42FjziKi8xk1pY8QMAvPc_r4/s1600/wire+vine+ball+tower+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="196" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_FECg9kYQiYEGMj5tJbAXIskRZlXTUlUmF3bh8ZWyMKSzYl9w9JmTKytngQKMvhcMU3aTRy0U5aWcpr1y270aKl5-HoQpfDohee43bA1ZYOb8hJMYDN42FjziKi8xk1pY8QMAvPc_r4/s640/wire+vine+ball+tower+1.jpg" width="289" /></a></div>
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Then I stacked them into this awesome tower trellis The Welding Man made.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuV1BQhL6aqs8UFPsDDmqwjRP2Yp5K5z_bEzbEeNSXoJzsysKf7kbHEZ-C9OfLX2OiQ8xP4iJMlxbBvpbUQgaIJaUJVqx_yLDH_nk6Gu7ZQC5x65tLJfyeZusKTVNvB4TaGsammPH_B4/s1600/wire+vine+ball+stack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="237" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuV1BQhL6aqs8UFPsDDmqwjRP2Yp5K5z_bEzbEeNSXoJzsysKf7kbHEZ-C9OfLX2OiQ8xP4iJMlxbBvpbUQgaIJaUJVqx_yLDH_nk6Gu7ZQC5x65tLJfyeZusKTVNvB4TaGsammPH_B4/s640/wire+vine+ball+stack.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
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Ooooh! I like this alot!</div>
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And then I took a few lengths of wire and made this </div>
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little tennis ball size orb and painted it blue....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ58KwTpQOvH2vA3nJFXKwQllY6tvLEu0B9siTlwQ-xigCgUxEQTGBUtDlVOr_TZJw5oBK6OTnjJCLdmZPaFxkOZDN3iXB0gIB5bB6calyoYHRXnQZfrcfeeLAlSTEAi5RTe5oFjWUREQ/s1600/wire+vine+ball+tiny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="465" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ58KwTpQOvH2vA3nJFXKwQllY6tvLEu0B9siTlwQ-xigCgUxEQTGBUtDlVOr_TZJw5oBK6OTnjJCLdmZPaFxkOZDN3iXB0gIB5bB6calyoYHRXnQZfrcfeeLAlSTEAi5RTe5oFjWUREQ/s400/wire+vine+ball+tiny.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's just perfect with those hot pink cosmos!</div>
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This was a pleasant afternoon's work, sitting in the sunshine. </div>
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I'm getting more tire wire and see what else I can come up with!!</div>
Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-55294120766866573822020-06-17T09:10:00.000-07:002020-06-17T09:10:59.011-07:00Wax Paper Capiz Shell Tabletop Chandelier<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.center()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="https://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg"></a></b></i>I've been seeing lots of chandeliers made of faux capiz shells out in blogland<br />
with some made out of wax paper, plastic cups, laminated rice paper,<br />
even wax paper mod podged onto parchment paper.<br />
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I figured I can do that and so, I did!<br />
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I chose a $2 thrist store tabletop lamp for the bookcase in our hallway.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eIQ9r2IUlYVqHmUPaQIkJTZRLXfkl8jOwparDuXmWu4C3V3-F0bcVDmtdXSc1HYXjr0FwadRemTzxC2Z5AySa4Pe6JKoGpF6k3H7fNUcXMaC8hEAmv5Cc58T2Opf_PbOSUUTe1maIJI/s1600/blog+capiz+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eIQ9r2IUlYVqHmUPaQIkJTZRLXfkl8jOwparDuXmWu4C3V3-F0bcVDmtdXSc1HYXjr0FwadRemTzxC2Z5AySa4Pe6JKoGpF6k3H7fNUcXMaC8hEAmv5Cc58T2Opf_PbOSUUTe1maIJI/s640/blog+capiz+1.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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And I love the way this came out!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFARa8lo0mmTPJz97_KiEuwS2eEzXcrSfLQUZ9BqSeJQIo14OuEbXDnbvQnkq8IcS95_ow5feRN9w1fVbhIFYOpcbH4K1wtV5meIzPTtFqI-0pHrwSg4il-1wUjf25KP7SMwuzfaxQqk/s1600/blog+capiz+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFARa8lo0mmTPJz97_KiEuwS2eEzXcrSfLQUZ9BqSeJQIo14OuEbXDnbvQnkq8IcS95_ow5feRN9w1fVbhIFYOpcbH4K1wtV5meIzPTtFqI-0pHrwSg4il-1wUjf25KP7SMwuzfaxQqk/s640/blog+capiz+2.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
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It has a soft glow, great texture and a bit of movement when you walk by.<br />
Even The Welding Man likes it, he says it reminds him of a wedding dress. :o)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGF2V0pgiPHLtpNh-CHJy5o6bXvNCnCTXYO0GjsGryuzuiBx25pl8DtyKi_eBJwNEoRESv0FATMKiUUSj6s0UWkbKlRsk747_x707nR4EwJdVHfn7t80mBCPtGiobcFkpqEDIWB_gJOT0/s1600/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+003.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGF2V0pgiPHLtpNh-CHJy5o6bXvNCnCTXYO0GjsGryuzuiBx25pl8DtyKi_eBJwNEoRESv0FATMKiUUSj6s0UWkbKlRsk747_x707nR4EwJdVHfn7t80mBCPtGiobcFkpqEDIWB_gJOT0/s640/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+003.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I took two lamp shades from my stash and removed the covers. I knew I wanted the rings to be larger at the top and smaller at the bottom. So I wired them together and even added another ring with craft wire secured with florist wire.<br />
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What is needed is a sturdy shape with at least two different sized rings to hold your fake shells in layers.</div>
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After a coat of white spray paint I flipped it over and got all my fake capiz shell circles ready.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2ShyphenhyphenC5rOYhiYTtbeLjGkwy7sWOGqKQ5ce73AIyxOV_cTPXnV88kqdYeVtltI6VY82QSZDQyl57bDinvRmDApYoc8XOw6VYlGNL1S65KbQFEe0mdS4oU71BoJwmrtcE5EpBguvPRrb5o/s1600/DSC00177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2ShyphenhyphenC5rOYhiYTtbeLjGkwy7sWOGqKQ5ce73AIyxOV_cTPXnV88kqdYeVtltI6VY82QSZDQyl57bDinvRmDApYoc8XOw6VYlGNL1S65KbQFEe0mdS4oU71BoJwmrtcE5EpBguvPRrb5o/s400/DSC00177.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dollar Store wax paper, baby!!<br />
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Next I made the wax paper "shells." I used a dry iron on cotton and put<br />
parchment paper on the bottom between the ironing board and wax paper.<br />
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Four sheets torn off close to the same size melt together nicely<br />
and make a good, stiff 4 ply sheet. Let the wax paper cool then start punching.<br />
I found my punches did best with 4 sheets of 4 ply wax paper,<br />
your punch might do better with more or less.<br />
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I used a 2" and an 1 3/4" circle punch. I figured I needed about 400 circles total,<br />
plus I cut a few extra in case of mistakes or design changes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Y7Nh4NzY6HOEXYWrZdrAsWerGju3C6AQj5ePgnqrMcXUz6-RO9KI0BTycpdQgqaSJ0ziIg0WwisCkJ1WeE8H9aHWLqamVDgbUkV2F6I84uKY8ZotybjaI3GBlUYwB3QKg19b6YN22Tc/s1600/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+004.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Y7Nh4NzY6HOEXYWrZdrAsWerGju3C6AQj5ePgnqrMcXUz6-RO9KI0BTycpdQgqaSJ0ziIg0WwisCkJ1WeE8H9aHWLqamVDgbUkV2F6I84uKY8ZotybjaI3GBlUYwB3QKg19b6YN22Tc/s640/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+004.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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I sewed my circles together using my machine's longest stitch and placed 9 circles on each "run."<br />
I sewed several sets of nine together in a single sitting with about three inches<br />
of thread between each set. I cut them apart into sets<br />
of nine and started assembling.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWopTvOXSo5cykf3xLHc_yR3-yLC6SKC7aNbHA4KZCcHxD_HXeSaA9Oa0-oOkHscRGEQwDGSyOlF6rh38rrq4JrkCUTPZ8KoKBDQrQMTxinfA9-bqka4JVmRcD11l6YGgcl4PxTxmpMtU/s1600/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+005.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="595" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWopTvOXSo5cykf3xLHc_yR3-yLC6SKC7aNbHA4KZCcHxD_HXeSaA9Oa0-oOkHscRGEQwDGSyOlF6rh38rrq4JrkCUTPZ8KoKBDQrQMTxinfA9-bqka4JVmRcD11l6YGgcl4PxTxmpMtU/s640/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+005.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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I wound the thread from one set of circles twice around the middle ring and put a dab of hot glue over the thread. I placed each string of circles about 1" apart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWorCVRVC0LV7w_jJWgFCeInhTwQdcNK4fOL9wAw1zgmqDQnpnYfYnk5-tIomatKPSmIt6UoYIISs9e5LvOUdV6zRhXurHo7J-zMxVe1Z3BPGwzg6CmJO66rp8IsDtR4_Ehv1z74sAVcg/s1600/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+007.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWorCVRVC0LV7w_jJWgFCeInhTwQdcNK4fOL9wAw1zgmqDQnpnYfYnk5-tIomatKPSmIt6UoYIISs9e5LvOUdV6zRhXurHo7J-zMxVe1Z3BPGwzg6CmJO66rp8IsDtR4_Ehv1z74sAVcg/s320/Faux+Capiz+Table+Lamp+007.jpg" width="410" /></a> </div>
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For the top ring I let six of the circles on a string hang down outside<br />
and folded the other three over inside the frame, using a dab of hot glue<br />
on the thread at the top. This gave the upper half of the lamp a fluffier look<br />
and more visual "weight."</div>
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Extra circles folded in half and hot glued around the upper ring give the lamp a finished look.</div>
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As you can see, the stitched circles diffuse the light and overlap nicely, giving a nice soft glow to the evening. During the day they give that corner a bit of reflected light and nice texture.<br />
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I am already thinking ahead to doing this with my dining room light. Maybe with a little color and a bit of glitter? When I figure it out and make it I'll be posting right here.<br />
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5055281380581443137.post-64389995919308271252020-06-16T09:56:00.000-07:002020-06-16T09:55:23.376-07:00DIY Vine Decor Ball Garden Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Do you know how much a 12" vine ball costs? I know how much it costs because I decided I wanted a big vine ball for my urn planter. So I started shopping for one.</div>
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A foot across, made from dried vines, how expensive could it be? </div>
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Hey, locally the price was $28! Online the price was $22. Plus shipping!</div>
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Well, shoot, that's not going to stop me from getting a big ol' vine ball for my empty urn planter.</div>
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Time to DIY.</div>
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Pink Panther theme music goes here....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W7lCSmoInALeRDVCA86LxdeLqqiX3YXfGR1HfxPAXD_JFQwNNRVtrGMAuEZckCjGWiRe-J0pkSXyP7ZTIozvtGW7iNwUackK8J21P2E2GCWbVshMKOKew8z4865AKLDFhcx4U8U9fAI/s1600/final+solar+vine+ball+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W7lCSmoInALeRDVCA86LxdeLqqiX3YXfGR1HfxPAXD_JFQwNNRVtrGMAuEZckCjGWiRe-J0pkSXyP7ZTIozvtGW7iNwUackK8J21P2E2GCWbVshMKOKew8z4865AKLDFhcx4U8U9fAI/s640/final+solar+vine+ball+1.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
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Ta da! </div>
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And it didn't cost anywhere near the twenty dollars plus. </div>
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Here's how I worked it out.</div>
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I already had the totally plastic but painted and repainted urn planter that looks like a priceless iron antique. But it's really just plastic from Kmart and cost $2.50 on clearance. It was a bronzey tan and it now has so many layers of spray paint and outdoor craft paint that it looks like an old old metal planter. Every year it gets more beat up and vintage looking. I love it!</div>
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Ahem.</div>
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I shopped in my stash for the embroidery hoops and the spray paint AND the wire, so no new dollars spent there.</div>
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I found the bundle of twisted vines at a thrift store for $1.99.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBp8mN-fdyOXN9kSA5cxEhOKJvM1mFSYCFU5TQZYe50sMwrxXuLg9f3_b1NoaPgzP_2mOSrykyh0oqOkRLR6z_veHyaVcY14CTHs8L4UONfKY__9VBee31eoE5N0FbQdakipG0WNvwiU/s1600/vine+ball+hoop+and+vines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBp8mN-fdyOXN9kSA5cxEhOKJvM1mFSYCFU5TQZYe50sMwrxXuLg9f3_b1NoaPgzP_2mOSrykyh0oqOkRLR6z_veHyaVcY14CTHs8L4UONfKY__9VBee31eoE5N0FbQdakipG0WNvwiU/s640/vine+ball+hoop+and+vines.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
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I wired two painted embroidery hoops to make a good base for my sphere. Then I unraveled the vines into smaller strands. Note-soaking them in water overnight would have made them much more pliable to work with but I persevered and made them work for me. Even though they were stiff and brittle and seemed determined to try my patience. </div>
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So, here's the start. And the middle. And basically the finish.</div>
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I wrapped those vines round and round the hoops. And then wrapped some more. And then added more. </div>
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You see where this is going.</div>
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I used short lengths of fine floral wire at many different places to hold the vines in the round shape and basically make the whole shebang look like a rustic globe.</div>
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Lordy Lordy I love the way this came out!</div>
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So of course I had to take pictures and gaze at it and add the creeping jenny birdhouse and then take more pictures and make The Welding Man come out and look at it and then take more pictures.</div>
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Be very glad I'm only posting these few.</div>
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Oooh aaah!</div>
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With the plastic urn that totally does NOT look like a plastic urn but looks like a vintage iron planter. And the tiny curly tendrils of dried vines. And the extremely low cost of my new garden vine ball...</div>
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I love everything about this little DIY.</div>
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Extreme close up! </div>
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I should just start saying that the urn is a vintage iron thrift shop find that cost me an arm and a leg. But nah. Plastic and paint and more paint and some weather and then the big ol' decorative vine ball on top.</div>
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It hits all the bases for my favorite projects...it has color, texture, age and low cost. Plus, it went together in no time, about an hour.</div>
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I have other urns with plants in them...and more of those twisted vines....and embroidery hoops...and wire, and spray paint. I see more gorgeous vine balls in my garden future!</div>
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<a href="http://akadesign.ca/weekend-retreat-link-party-135/">http://akadesign.ca/weekend-retreat-link-party-135/</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_1658129865"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/2015/09/pj-297-an-upcycled-link-party.html">http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/2015/09/pj-297-an-upcycled-link-par</a>ty</div>
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<a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/made-by-you-monday-256/">http://www.skiptomylou.org/made-by-you-monday-256/</a></div>
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Ann @ makethebestofthingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03618787180208030510noreply@blogger.com1