I have been meaning to make pillowcase dresses since I saw them on Red Ted's blog, but our last minute holiday this week provided the ideal opportunity. I have been collecting random pillowcases from charity shops in advance of doing this because I have every intention of making some more, once I've cracked it, to send to Sew Scrumptious for her dress appeal. The steps really are surprisingly simple: to give you an idea, I made these in an … [Read more...]
Pumpkin cake: a tutorial
If you are having a Pumpkin-themed party, as we do every October half-term, then you will be in need of a centrepiece. Step forth my guide to creating a marvellous Pumpkin cake. It was a big hit last year. Firstly, of course, you need to make your cake. I opted for three layers of cake, made with recipes I use regularly, but it would be just as easy to use a cake mix, or indeed shop-bought. The layers are for the height, as a 'classic' pumpkin … [Read more...]
How to make wax crayon pumpkins
I saw a fabulous tutorial for floating clouds recently and it sparked something in my mind, particularly as I had been thinking of making these autumn leaves with The Girls. It's amazing how two ideas, viewed together, generate a new idea in your head, one that is so easy and effective that it's thoroughly enjoyable to make. This is how this Pumpkin craft was born. And here's how to make wax crayon pumpkins: First, grate your crayons: we used … [Read more...]
How to make a shell suncatcher
Continuing the alliteration with the last How To, along with the shell and paper plate theme, we also had fun making a shell suncatcher. Again, you need a paper plate with the centre cut out. Decorate it however you wish, since this forms the frame for the picture. You also need a piece of clear plastic. I used the plastic from a packet of some kind, but you could use OHP sheets or cellophane. Using a marker, draw a shell onto the plastic. we … [Read more...]
How to make a paper plate porthole picture
Try saying that after a couple of drinks: how to make a paper plate porthole picture, how to make a paper plate porthole picture. I'm exhausted just typing it, although that may have something to do with the fact that the Dimpled Assassin likes to start the day early, and when I say that, I mean a time with the number 5 in it. By the time we hit breakfast, I'm ready to go back to bed. That's probably why I like to get out with the Girls as … [Read more...]
How to fill a large wall space
I briefly mentioned the dining room when talking about our resident seagull a few days ago. Keith inhabits one wall of the room, which has changed quite a lot in the past few months: the alcove shelving has been built, the walls have been painted (Farrow and Ball Chinese Blue in case you are curious) and I was given a beautiful French Dresser in February for our fifth wedding anniversary, which traditionally is represented by a gift in … [Read more...]
Inspired by….August
I mentioned in the past couple of posts that this summer seems to have flown by. I'm pretty pleased with myself if I'm honest: we've done so many fun things, and all of them have been educational, either intentionally or inadvertantly. And when I say educational, I've probably learned more than they have. I've learned that I really do love making and painting and crafting, either with my children or without them. I've learned that I love … [Read more...]
