Chenilling Tutorial - with a tip to help sore wrists

Hi there guys

This is my first tutorial for 2012, I hope you really like it and find it useful. This is excellent for those scrappy bits of fabric you don't want to chuck out but don't want to waste either. This technique is called Chenilling and is excellent for bags, table/place mats and could even be used in quilt squares.

Items required:

• Sewing machine (if you're really keen you could hand stitch it)
• Thread and needle suitable for sewing through several layers of material
• Fabric - this can be any fabric you like in any shape you like, as long as there are at least 4 pieces the same size. Aim to have at least one plain colour piece for the lining. I personally did a piece with 4 layers of fabric sandwiched together so my tutorial will only reference 4 pieces, however I do know someone who successfully did it with 7 layers. 
• Something to mark lines with
• Ruler
• Sharp long scissors

Method:
Step One: Cut your material to the same size, and sandwich the pieces together with a plain piece on the bottom. In my example, I chose black for the bottom, an orange/white for the second layer, a plain blue for the next layer, and a cute country pattern layer for the top. Line up the pieces so they are even and pin them in a sandwich.

Step Two:
Starting at one corner, measure across the lining piece diagonally and mark. Then mark a diagonal line 1 inch on either side of the middle line. Continue this across the lining piece until it looks like the picture shown below.

Step Three:

Once you've completed that, using your machine (or hands) sew the first middle diagonal line, through all four layers. Continue stitching the first line on the right, then the line on the left, and stitch diagonally across so it looks like the picture below. Continue through until all the lines have been stitched.

 Step Four:
For this step, you will require your scissors again. To complete the step, you need to cut the top three layers of fabric (not the lining) between the lines, Carefully slide of the scissor blades in between  the bottom layer and the top three layers, as shown below.

I found the easiest way to hold it while cutting was to slide the blade under the top three layers, then pinch the material around the blade - as shown below. I have RSI and very sore wrists a lot, and found this method put less strain on my wrists. Try it out and please comment below if it helps you.

Once you've finished cutting all of the spaces between the lines, it will look like the below picture.

 Step Five: Finally, you can either choose to leave it as the picture shows above, or you can choose to make it more raggedy by washing it and putting it in the dryer. Both have very effective results. You can either choose to roll in a hem, or you can insert it into a bag to secure the loose edges.

Above picture courtesy of Cooma Craft Group showing the raggedy edges achieved from washing/drying


Hope you enjoy this neat little tutorial and please show me if you choose to make something following it. Thanks for reading, and tune in next time

Centrepieces for Christmas on a Budget

Ever wanted a stunning centrepiece for the Christmas table but baulked at the prices? Follow my simple tutes and create your own - there by saving money and having the feeling of achievement at making your own table look beautiful.

You can use all or some of these ideas, I think they look magnificent together but it's entirely personal choice.

Basic materials list:
Tinsel
Glitter and/or glitter paint
Pine cones
Candles
Newpaper/dictionary pages/wrapping paper or other thin paper
Double sided tape
Paint
NB Please note you do not have to have all this, choose what suits you

Methods:
Pine cones -

With the pine cones, I chose to do a couple of different methods, but these are open for further ideas. If the pine cones you've found have damage like this: don't despair. You can always turn the damage towards the back or, if the damage is quite bad, use a ribbon or similar embellishment to disguise the damage.

In method one shown on the left,  I chose to go with the non-traditional colour of blue mixed with a little green to make a lovely blue-turquoise colour. I then painted the Black Opal glitter paint over the top in places as a highlighter rather than covering all the blue paint.

In method two in the middle, I painted a plain pinecone in Black Opal glitter paint - this is kind of a clear paint so it kept the natural colour of the pine cone while adding a bit of glitz.

In method three on the right, I used a red paint and red glitter for a traditional look on the pine cone. If you like traditional colours, you could choose to do one in silver and one in green.

Other methods you might like to try out are using thin tinsel, pom poms (home made or bought), miniature Christmas decorations, small pieces of holly.


For the candles, I also did a couple of other methods:

For the first method on the left, I wrapped some old Christmas-themed wrapping paper and trimmed to size, before double sided sticky taping it onto the candle. I did not attach the paper to the candle, but overlapped the paper so the paper can be slid off the candle easily - this means you can move the paper and trim accordingly as the candle burns down, or remove it completely to use the candle for another purpose.

For the second method on the right, I recommend using a thin paper such as wrapping paper, dictionary or old book pages, newspaper etc. Wrap the candle and adhere together with sticky tape. You can leave it as is, as I have done, or you can then use a hair dryer to gently melt the candle onto the paper for an almost transparent effect.




For the third method in the second left photo, I used the double sided sticky tape to create lines around the candles - I eyed the spaces in between each line. I then gently patted glitter onto the tape, being careful to brush away stray bits with a paint brush.
For this method, I recommend using a thicker style of glitter than I used, as the extra fine glittery can get very staticky and stick to everything and can be difficult to remove. Also check to see how sticky the wax on the candle is, as it is quite humid where I am today the candle was a bit stickier   than usual.

When I was satisfied with my pine cones and candles, I played around with them until I found a setting I liked.As you can see in the below pictures, the candles and pine cones look effective separately, but I think look that little bit more festive when done together.

I used some old boxes to put the candles on, placed the pine trees in front balanced on a box and each other to ensure they sat up straight. I then placed the tinsel around them to hide the boxes and to add that bit of Christmas cheer.

I hope you like my Centrepieces of Christmas on a Budget - stay tuned for my next article coming soon. Also feel free to leave a comment if there's any ideas you'd like to see posted here.

Happy crafting,
Stefanie

Christmas Ornaments on a Budget Part One

Ever wanted to buy the beautiful sparkly baubles sold at exorbitant prices in shops but can’t justify the cost? I have a solution for you – create your own stunning decorations for mere dollars following my simple tutorial.

Material list:

Foam shapes including balls, Christmas trees, wreathes etc – these can be found at most crafting stores

Sequins, beads, thin tinsel, glitter or acrylic paint, tissue paper, foil, drawing pins – let your imagination run wild here and use whatever inspires you

Beading pins – these are also found in crafting stores

Glue if required

Methods:

Decide what sort of design you want – this can be done either mentally or by doing a quick paper sketch. If you choose to do the sequins and beads, as shown in the photo, find the “seam” on your foam item and use this as a starting guide line to follow – this will help you to keep your sequins going in a straight line.

You can choose to place the pins directly through the sequins (as shown in the purple and gold bauble) or use a small bead and then a sequin (as shown on the two left baubles) – both result in a gorgeous unique look. If any of the pins feel loose, use glue as you see fit to secure the sequins in place.

If you would like to use paint, you can create a design or just paint randomly – you can also use sequins over the top, placing them in such a way that bits of 

the paint shows through, or roll the item in glitter. If available, using glitter paint would also be another beautiful option.

To use the foil, you can either cover the foam items in one or two pieces of foil (I would recommend the wreath or tree shapes for this) or rip the foil up into small pieces and glue it on.  Any shape could be used for decoupage and is also an excellent activity for the kids.

Depending on the foil type chosen, you could do it in a decoupage style provided the glue leaves a shiny finish, some glues may dry in such a way that it results in a matte effect. Decoupage, traditionally used with tissue paper, entails using one part water and one part PVA glue mixed, painting a little of the foam pieces at a time and sticking on small ripped pieces of foil or paper. The ripped edges allow the pieces to blend seamlessly together. If you choose to use paper, I recommend painting the glue over the top of the paper as well as underneath, this strengthens the paper layers and will give a shiny sheen to the item as well.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my post and I’m interested to see anything anyone makes that has been inspired by this post. Stay tuned for my post on Wednesday 30/11 where I will be exploring the various uses of pine cones, candles and paper crafts as Christmas ornaments and centerpieces.

Happy crafting,
Stefanie

Paper Crafts on a Budget PART TWO

Have you read Paper Crafts on a Budget PART ONE from 15/11/2011? If not, I recommend having a read by clicking here. Otherwise, welcome to Paper Crafts on a Budget PART TWO – I hope you enjoy!

Always wanted a cheap shimmer or glimmer mist?

These are so easy and cheap to make and can be done in a range of colours. Firstly, purchase one or more mini mister bottles, these can be purchased from scrapbooking stores for around $3 but I have also used old hand sanitiser spray bottles that have been cleaned. You can either choose to use a few drops from an ink refill bottle but a couple of cheaper ways are:

Using metallic paint, (or food colouring and silver or gold metallic paint) craft glue and water, fill your mini mister ¾ full with water, a small amount of glue and paint and shake, then perform a test spray. Add paint until desired colour is achieved.

The other method is excellent for recycling metallic pens that may no longer work because the nib is blocked – this only works if the ink is still usable though. Take one or two metallic pens and place the ink into your mini mister, add water if needed and test spray.

I want to make my own paper designs…. But how?

There are multiple ways to make your own paper designs and various methods are listed below:

·        Tea dye – make a pot of tea (black is best for hues of brown and orange) and brew until it’s a colour that you like (keep in mind the hotter the tea, the more orange it may be), then paint, soak or dab the paper with the tea.

·        Burn the edges of your paper for an old fashioned effect - used in conjunction with tea dying this is excellent for pirate or antique themed layouts.

·        Using the previously mentioned mists, spray it lightly over the paper to create a metallic effect.

·        Use samples from wall paper or paint stores for various effects.

·        Use a nail file, scourer or scissors to rip and distress edges.

·        Use mesh tape to create cool designs by painting over the top of it onto card stock. Remove tape when dry for a more manly effect.

Embossing machines such as the Cuttlebug are out of my price range, can I use something else to emboss? (This is different to heat embossing mentioned in PART ONE)
Yes, a rolling pin used several times with embossing folders (unfortunately there’s no real cheap alternative to these) can have the same effect as the machines – except they will require more physical strength than the machines. Use a soft foam mouse pad to emboss gently or a piece of thick plastic to make the folders cut through the card.

Machines are possibly preferable for those with hand issues or arthritis, however I do recommend keeping a good grip on the handle when winding the folders through, even if the machine makes cracking noises.  A sudden release of the handle will result in the machine flinging it into your hand, which could cause a nasty injury.

I don’t want to spend heaps of money on expensive stationary – what do I do?

Keep an eye out for school sales at supermarkets and newsagents, or at $2 shops, as all of these will put stationary items on sale, and this is a perfect time to build a collection of glitter/metallic pens, textas, adhesives such as double-sided tape, sticky tape, removable tape that doesn’t permanently stick, glue, white out, erasers etc. Ask at these stores if they have an email club where you can be emailed the latest specials they have – this could result in sales on stationary including paper and card stock, allowing you to purchase all the basic elements you require to complete a paper craft. Where possible, if you are matting a page with another page, cut an 11 inch by 11 inch square to create a 1 inch frame out of 12 x 12 inch card stock – keep the square for use in future projects. You can also create your own paper patterns using stamps and various inking techniques.

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed it. As I come across new techniques and tips for paper crafting cheaply, I will continue my series Paper Craft on a Budget. Please feel free to comment if there are any tutorials or ideas mentioned that you would like to have expanded on.

Happy Crafting,

Steff

Paper Crafts on a Budget - PART ONE

On a tight budget but still feel the urge to scrap book or make cards? Read on and discover my tried-and-true tips to create fabulous paper crafts without the expense.

Where can I find paper and embellishments that won’t cost an arm and a leg?

Always think outside the box when it comes to embellishments and paper. Recycle old wrapping paper, this can be used for photo mats or to make embellishments such as flowers, or to make interesting shapes with punches. Use old birthday/Christmas cards, business cards, tags from clothing, packaging from various items that catch your eye and junk mail to create various types of embellishments, such as those mentioned. Your local fabric store’s bargain bin can be excellent for ribbon scraps, buttons, fabric remnants and the like. Your local second hand shops are also ideal sources for embellishments, but you can also find old patterns for clothes (which are excellent for fashion layouts) and clothes that might have an interesting material, buttons or trims, also magazines, old books and picture books are another source of inspiration that could have you crafting for many hours on the cheap. If your embellishments don’t match your page, many can be altered to match with the use of inks and paint. Embellishments can also be found in everyday things such as:

• old post cards or photos (materials that fit in the category of ephemera are excellent), keys, old coins, sand, sand paper, shells, pieces from old games or jigsaws, stitching by hand or machine etc.

Stamps, inks, heat guns, daubers, sponges…. A lot of it is expensive; do I require all of it to start with?

Large department stores such as K-Mart, Big W and Target and many $2 stores have scrapbooking areas that sell clear un-mounted stamps (meaning you need to purchase an acrylic block, which can also be purchased at the above mentioned stores for approximately $4-8) and basic ink pads. Please note that most clear stamps have a film on them, and when you attempt to ink it up the ink will not transfer properly, resulting in an uneven image. To rectify this, simply take a white eraser and rub it over the stamp several times, testing it with ink every so often to ensure that you have removed all of the film. You can also create stamps from things you have at home, such as toilet paper rolls, celery bottoms can create a rose, apples and potatoes with shapes cut out of them or bubble wrap .

Many inks can also be created at home, stay tuned for future updates on how to make your own inks.

Use make up brushes, paint brushes, cotton wool balls and cotton ear buds, make up wedges, even the common household sponge can all create interesting effects. Using a sponge that doubles as a scourer can also create excellent distressed effects.

If you would love to emboss but find the idea of buying a heat gun a bit expensive, or are confused as to what type of embossing equipment to get, then I recommend purchasing the following:

·        Emboss-able Inks

Some inks will not allow you to emboss so it can be worthwhile to purchase a few Distress Inks by Tim Holtz in a couple of your favourite colours to allow you to try out this technique. Some inks by Versa Colour will allow embossing and this brand can be found at cheaper prices than the Distress Ink, but research carefully before purchasing to ensure it is the right type.

·        Embossing powder in Clear

This can be used over any colour ink and saves you having to buy multiple embossing powders to begin with.

·        Toaster or hair straightener (most homes have one or the other)

Either of these can be used to heat up the embossing powder which is what creates the embossing effects.

·        Dryer sheet or an anti-static pad. An anti-static pad can be purchased or home-made, by making a small bag (a couple of inches or 5cm square is fine) of a thick cotton, filling it with cornstarch or baby powder and sewing it shut)

To emboss, firstly set up your work area. You need the piece of card to stamp on, emboss-able ink, a stamp, a folded piece of paper, an anti-static pad, a paint brush and the powder (I recommend having the powder open but away from you so you don’t accidentally knock it). To start with, wipe the card with the antistatic pad to remove static, and then simply stamp an image using an emboss-able ink. Quickly place a thick layer of emboss-able powder over the image (you have about 20-30 seconds to do this step before the ink dries). Lifting the card carefully, tip the excess powder onto the folded piece of paper (this makes it easier to put the powder back into the container). If there are specks of embossing powder on the card where you don’t want them, carefully remove with the paint brush.

Turn on the heating appliance of your choice and hold your card carefully over it with tweezers – ensure it is a couple of inches above so you don’t scorch the card and watch the powder carefully. As it starts to change, gently and slowly move the card over the heat source so all the powder changes into a glossy look. Once completed, remove from heat source and allow to cool - And you’re all done!

As I come across new techniques and tips for paper crafting cheaply, I will continue my series Paper Craft on a Budget. Please feel free to comment if there are any tutorials or ideas mentioned that you would like to have expanded on.

Stay tuned for Paper crafts on a Budget PART TWO appearing on Saturday 19/11/11. Thanks for reading and see you next time!!!

Happy Crafting,

Steff

Introducing Steff!!!

Hi there, my name is Stef, aka Mod35tBabe on every online forum I've ever been on, and I’m a proud Hand Made-n's Blogger. I’m 25 years old, and reside in the beautiful Snowy Mountains, southern NSW. I’m a 7th generation local and have lived here for all but 2 years of my life. We have a fairly strong artistic community, with 3 small art galleries, two fabric stores and a range of crafting groups.


I live with my parents and 4 pets, a messy Golden Retriever named Buddy, two cats named Bella & Blade and a Cockatiel named Takeshi. I am not currently working due to some medical issues, but am planning to use my various crafting skills to assist me with getting a job in the future. I have a boyfriend named Steve and we have his 3 year old daughter visit on weekends and together we have lots of fun.


I currently participate in a Kazazz scrapbooking and card-making group every Thursday night, am a member of The Monaro Art Group associated with the Raglan Art Gallery and on occasion attend art classes at the local TAFE on Mondays, these are run by the Art Group. 


I enjoy attempting crafts of all sorts, including sewing/embroidery, various paper crafts including origami, card-making and scrapping, quilling, decoupage and ATCs. I also enjoy painting with acrylics and drawing with pencils and charcoal. I am currently also studying Certificate III in Fashion Design & Technology through TAFE by correspondence. This is quite a challenging but very enjoyable course.I have in the past been a writer, a poet and a gamer/geek at varying times but have always continued some form of crafting since I was big enough to paint. Ironically enough I failed home economics (cheated 100% on my sewing assignment by getting a friend of my mother's to do it for me!) and art class.


I’d like to add knitting, crocheting and jewellery making to my current repertoire of skills. My most favourite project I’ve ever made so far was a doll I made for a swap, I fashioned her to look like Anne Boleyn, shown here: 

I shop for craft supplies everywhere, anywhere that even *might* have something useful I will search through thoroughly. Everything from supermarkets, $2 shops, craft specialty shops,  fabric shops, markets, fairs, op-shops and Vinnies/Salvos second hand stores are all places I have found multiple supplies in. I am also always on the lookout for bargains and like to incorporate techniques into my crafting that will make it cheaper. I’m so excited to be able to share my tips and ideas with you all, and to be able to learn from so many others is just incredible


Happy crafting,Stefanie


Just for fun:-
Vegemite or Peanut Butter? Vegemite on toast with melted butter
Summer, Autumn, Winter or Spring? Summer, I hate winter, Spring is lovely with flowers but they make me sneeze, Autumn is too close to winter so Summer it is
Cats or dogs: Both - I live with and love both
Pen or pencil: Pencil
If I were a doll, the accessories packaged with me would be: Sunglasses, mobile, laptop and a sewing machine and a Steve and a Caci doll would be pretty cool also
I know how to cook: omelets and parmesan chips, evidentally
Scary movies or happy endings? Happy endings

One Yard (Metre) Wonders:- 101 Sewing Projects - REVIEW

Hi there. 

Today I am going to introduce to you one of the very first sewing books I ever purchased. I had not been sewing for very long and needed a book that covered a range of simple projects. The book I came back to repeatedly was One Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Projects – this is also available as One Metre Wonders, for those who are more familiar with the metric system. Although I don’t work in Imperial, I have an excellent measuring tape with both Imperial and metric so it is easy for me to convert it.

This book has excellent step-by-step instructions and most of the patterns could easily be altered if the pattern doesn’t suit you. There are also fabulously coloured pictures through out. I also loved the fact that each project only requires one yard of material – this means that I can afford to buy the slightly more expensive material because I know I won’t need much of it.

My favourite project that I have made so far has been the Summer Nightie singlet top found in Chapter 6: From Head to Toe. For this particular project however, I adjusted it by purchasing patterned fabric and changing the singlet part into a halter neck version. I wore the result to my partner’s 30^th birthday and got some excellent reviews on the night.

Apart from projects that range from women’s wear, children’s wear, craft organization, home crafts, pet crafts, bags, toys and accessories the book also discusses Appliqué, how to prep your material and what tools you should have before starting, facts about fabrics and instructions on the best way to cut different fabrics, making & using patterns, troubleshooting your sewing machine, different types of stitches, seam techniques, and a useful glossary. All of these are useful for a novice sewer starting out, as it describes all the basic sewing fundamentals in an easy-to-understand manner. However the book is also useful for those who have more advanced skills as the range of patterns are inspiring and can be easily altered to suit your needs.

Thank you for reading my review, I hope you find the book as useful as I have.

Happy crafting,
Steff