Greeting a newborn child in the big world is a fantastic oportunity to make a unique gift for the young mum and baby. Of course we can get anything out of the box, but we can also step up and give an awesome, handmade present. We have a lot of possibilities to work with because a little baby needs a lot of special items.
Most popular presents for a new born child are: necessary diapers and towels, baby bottle, baby powder, teat, clothes, baby socks, baby blanket, pram toys. Sometimes people give something else but these are the most frequent gifts, ones that one doesn’t have to put much thought into. Present wrapping is another dilemma, in a broader perspective it is a way of eventual presentation that will make the gift look special and is often underestimated. The giver should definetely put some thought into it. We suggest an original solution: diaper cake or baby bunch.
For begginers a quick review of most amazimg projects of this kind of activity:
A water fountain adds charm to most any setting. Whether used as the focal point in a formal garden or as a whimsical addition to a casual gathering space, an outdoor water fountain is sure to please visitors of all ages. Although there is a wide variety of ready-made outdoor water fountains available for purchase, a much more meaningful and enjoyable feature can be made from an item with sentimental value such as a hand water pump from the family farm or Grandpa’s old whiskey barrel.
To make an outdoor water fountain, the following items are needed:
Piece that will form the basis of the water feature;
Water source, which can be as simple as a garden hose;
Reservoir of adequate size;
Re-circulating pump with ample tubing and a power source; and,
Desired supplemental decor such as plants and rocks.
Create the water fountain by positioning the main feature so that water will flow over or through it and into the reservoir. Place the pump within the reservoir and arrange the tubing to circulate the water. Once all adjustments have been made so that the water is flowing as desired, add plants, rocks and other decor in and around the fountain as the finishing touches. (more…)
Spring is here and with the season comes the traditional spring-cleaning. In addition to the long-standing practice of deep cleaning each spring, the brighter days and warmer weather often inspire the desire for a clean, fresh indoor environment. But with so much to do, where is the best place to start?
Start at the Top
Ceilings and high shelves or corners are easily overlooked during the dim days of winter and are often the most neglected areas in the home. Cleaning these places makes an immediate and highly visible impact. To get the most out of your spring cleaning, use a duster attached to a long handle to clean the area where the walls meet the ceiling in each room. Also dust around light fixtures or anything attached to, or suspended from, the ceiling. Pay special attention to cobwebs and shake the duster outside often during this process. Remove and clean all items from high shelves and replace after the shelves have been thoroughly cleaned. (more…)
Although Valentine’s Day is nearly here it is not too late to make a truly special handmade gift. All you need is a few photographs, some simple materials and a little creativity. Try one of these clever ideas to craft a unique, personalised gift for your special Valentine.
A Jar Full of Memories
A photo memory jar is a fun and thoughtful gift that is appropriate for anyone and also provides a creative way to use photographs that may be less than perfect. Simply choose a number of photos from a few memorable activities or excursions. Cut them into strips and write a brief message on the back of each strip. For your messages, consider using a theme such as “Why I love you.” Decorate a jar and the lid based on your theme or simply using Valentine’s Day colours, and put the photo strips inside. Add a tag and you’re done! As an alternative in this digital age, print digital photos on cardstock. (more…)
Recycle tank tops, t-shirts or sweaters into cool, reusable shopping bags. With minimal sewing and just a pair of scissors, a needle and thread, yarn or string, you can create a shopping bag to be used every day. In fact, why not make several? Keep a few at home, at work and in the car so that you’re always prepared. They are so quick and easy to make, you could even give them away while out shopping!
T-Shirt or Tank Top Shopping Bag
Making a shopping bag from a t-shirt or tank top is easy! Just turn the shirt inside out and sew completely across the bottom, either by hand or by machine. For added durability, sew across the bottom again a time or two. Then turn the shirt right side out. If you’re using a tank top, your bag is finished! If a t-shirt has been used, you must now cut off the sleeves right next to the seams and cut the neck opening to the desired size. Voila! A cool, reusable shopping bag! (more…)
Ironing can be a real drag for those who are assigned to this task. When paying for a laundry service is not an option, look for ideas that can bring a positive change to the dreariness of ironing wrinkles out of clothes. The challenge is not in the skill of ironing but how to sustain a good attitude while attending to this matter.
• Make a change of scenery to create a refreshing new atmosphere by relocating the equipment needed for this chore. On warm, sunny days, iron on the patio, porch, or deck, and while sprinkling the clothes with water, keep your body hydrated with some sprinkles too.
• Tackle the equipment for a cheap facelift to keep your spirits high. Spray paint the legs of the ironing board a hot red, or a soothing blue as a quick fix for a boring board. Further enhance this piece by stripping off the old cover and smoothing on a new do with a chic new pattern and color. (more…)
Small kitchens present a special organisational challenge, as there is rarely adequate storage space for needed kitchen items. Creative use of the space that is available is the key.
Countertops
Regardless of kitchen size, the only items that should be stored atop the counter are those that are used daily. Keep frequently used utensils in a decorative holder. Purchase the smallest size countertop appliances that will meet your needs. Use canisters to house tea, sugar and other food items.
Drawers
A variety of dividers are readily available for maximising drawer space. Consider dividing deeper drawers into layers. Simply stack drawer dividers or use flat boxes with lids placed within the drawer to house less used objects with more frequently used items placed on top. (more…)
There are a couple of great ways to permanently fix a leaking pipe in your home. It can be difficult if you’ve never done it before but don’t worry; you’ll feel proud of the work you’ve done.
One way to fix your leaking pipe is to install a pipe clamp that’s designed to fix a leaking pipe. This is an easy method and the simplest of all. The clamps of the device will have rubber gaskets that are located on the inside of the clamp. This gasket is made to fit securely around the leaky pipe. All you need to do is set the clamp over the leak in your pipe and tighten the necessary screws, holding the clamp in place and creating a permanent seal on the pipe. These pipe clamps are available at all home improvement and department stores. -
