Gone are the holiday seasons. You sure had a hard time thinking of what to give your loved ones, family and friends. But the spirit of giving is never over. As the brand new year starts, there will definitely be a lot of occasions and events that you will have to think of; birthdays, weddings, graduations, christening or anniversary. There are a lot and perhaps you have already given all the possible presents you can find from the mall. The question is what something new and fresh should you give in these coming occasions.
Your relatives and friends seem to have everything. You gave your wife a bunch of flowers last year and a box of perfume the other year. What could you give her this year? You gave your husband a tie on his birthday and a briefcase on your anniversary. What could you give him after he got promoted? You gave your sister an expensive bag on her birthday and a pair of shoes last Christmas. What can you give her on her graduation? You are certain that many people will give your friend kitchen utensils and home starter on her wedding. What difference can you make? This makes thinking of the presents more difficult. You definitely do not want to give something that seems not to be thought about. Each individual has his preference. Sometimes, it could be hard to guess this and in your mind, you always have the desire to satisfy your loved ones with what you gave them.
Gifts and novelties may also have the trend. They come and go some people seem to be attracted with these things. There were novelties that were once very popular but are not in anymore. But there are some that stay and the charm to touch someone’s heart remain.
If you are having a hard time thinking of a perfect present for your loved ones and friends, grab for a piece of crystal. The charm crystal has never fades. People from all walks of life love crystal. Whatever shape or form the crystal is cut, the facets bring a uniqueness of their own. The light and the brightness the crystal reflects captivate people’s eyes making them admire this piece.
Crystals come in different shapes and forms. You may find one that is cut in a human replica, angel, animals, certain figures but whatever form it takes, the innate beauty of crystals reflects through its prisms in different perspectives.
Hearing the word crystal makes one think of the price. Most people think that crystals are very expensive and for ordinary people, it seems so luxurious to give one as a present but there are many kinds of crystals that one can choose from. Not all are as expensive as you think. The most common and affordable now is the synthetic Swarovski crystal. Your imagination will really soar just by looking at the different colors this crystal reflects.
Another kind of crystal which is perfect as a present in terms of price and beauty is the Cz crystal. This crystal comes in fine pieces and will definitely make your jaw drop in awe. These fine pieces of crystal are easy to form giving you a variety of figures to choose from.
Captivate your loved ones and friends with the beauty crystals bring. Show them how much you care for them and how much you love them by giving them something unique and different from the usual presents they receive.
You may also think of giving your loved ones and friends with presents made of glass. You may think of giving your sweetheart a lovely glass frame where he or she can put your photos together. Perhaps, you are thinking of giving your boss a beautiful figurine made of glass or your daughter an angel figurine. It may not be as expensive as crystal but it’s as fabulous and beautiful.
Crystals and glasses are such a perfect for everyone. It’s not only for your mother or father who means so much to you, or your wife or husband who you exchanged vows with. It’s also a great present for your sister, brother, boss, colleague and friends. Just check the figures and try to match it with the personality of the person who is going to receive it. If you yourself is attracted to the beauty of these gifts, how much more the person trying to guess what’s inside a beautifully wrapped box. Wait until they see what’s inside!
Remember that a present is not only a statement of the person you are giving it to, it’s also a powerful statement of who you are as a person giving it. The statements are in these kinds of presents. It will speak for you so if you’re thinking of what a great present could be, give crystal or a unique glass. These presents are worth much more than they cost.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Setting Up Your Craft Show Booth
Have you ever walked into a store and immediately been so frustrated that you couldn't even begin to think about spending your money there? Things are haphazardly strewn about, there is little organization, and then to top it all off, when you walk up to an item that you might consider - it has no price tag on it. Don't let this happen to your craft show booth. You need to keep in mind the same principles of good marketing and merchandising when you set up for a craft show.
The first thing you need to do is have a plan. That means putting together an idea of what your craft show booth is going to look like in advance. I've seen so many people just lug their craft show items around in the back of a big van with a few extra stands and tables to place them on. These are the same people that ask, "why didn't I sell anything this weekend?".
Planning your craft show booth involves a couple of things: first, you want to talk to the craft show organizer to see how much space you have, and if there are any restrictions to what you can have in or around your booth. Also, ask if you have a reliable power supply to run your booth. This is important. The next thing you want to do is to get a floor plan of where your booth is located so you can figure out the best set up to keep people moving in and through your craft show display.
When you go to set up you craft show booth for the show, there are a couple of things you MUST keep in mind:
No clutter! Keep your crafts well organized into specific areas. If you are a knitter and you have sweaters for kids and adults, you don't want them together because people will be frustrated with having to sort through the kids sweaters to find the one adult one in the pile.
Spend time perfecting your merchandising skills. If you have a special stained glass window hanging, it would be time well spent to purchase or build a window that you can display in your booth with one of your window hanging's in it. When people see the item in action, they can picture it in their own homes, or they can picture using it. If they can do this, then they are more likely to part with the money to buy it.
Keep items no lower than waist level - No one really wants to bend over after they have been on their feet all day at a craft show. Keep items within a person's reach and they will be more likely to pick it up and examine it closely - which leads to more purchases. Leave the floor area for extra stock (in boxes) that you can fill your racks with.
Price everything you have - Make it easy for people to buy your crafts. If you don't have a price, they may think twice about taking the time to ask - they may just go elsewhere to purchase something at this craft show.
Eliminate log jams. There is nothing worse than having people frustrated by the lack of good flow in a craft show booth. Try and create a natural flow for people to look at your craft show items, be nudged along by others coming through, and right through to the till at the end. If you create to many spaces where people are bottle-necked or they have trouble maneuvering to see different crafts, you are limiting your sales.
Keep your aisles wide and keep everything streamlined. The frustrated customer does not spend their money in a craft show booth that frustrates them.
Remember, you are running a business. Think of that store that you despise going into versus the one where everything flows so nicely, the displays are appealing and all of the price tags are on the items for sale. Make your craft show booth resemble the store you like - and you'll find that people will spend more money on your crafts!
The first thing you need to do is have a plan. That means putting together an idea of what your craft show booth is going to look like in advance. I've seen so many people just lug their craft show items around in the back of a big van with a few extra stands and tables to place them on. These are the same people that ask, "why didn't I sell anything this weekend?".
Planning your craft show booth involves a couple of things: first, you want to talk to the craft show organizer to see how much space you have, and if there are any restrictions to what you can have in or around your booth. Also, ask if you have a reliable power supply to run your booth. This is important. The next thing you want to do is to get a floor plan of where your booth is located so you can figure out the best set up to keep people moving in and through your craft show display.
When you go to set up you craft show booth for the show, there are a couple of things you MUST keep in mind:
No clutter! Keep your crafts well organized into specific areas. If you are a knitter and you have sweaters for kids and adults, you don't want them together because people will be frustrated with having to sort through the kids sweaters to find the one adult one in the pile.
Spend time perfecting your merchandising skills. If you have a special stained glass window hanging, it would be time well spent to purchase or build a window that you can display in your booth with one of your window hanging's in it. When people see the item in action, they can picture it in their own homes, or they can picture using it. If they can do this, then they are more likely to part with the money to buy it.
Keep items no lower than waist level - No one really wants to bend over after they have been on their feet all day at a craft show. Keep items within a person's reach and they will be more likely to pick it up and examine it closely - which leads to more purchases. Leave the floor area for extra stock (in boxes) that you can fill your racks with.
Price everything you have - Make it easy for people to buy your crafts. If you don't have a price, they may think twice about taking the time to ask - they may just go elsewhere to purchase something at this craft show.
Eliminate log jams. There is nothing worse than having people frustrated by the lack of good flow in a craft show booth. Try and create a natural flow for people to look at your craft show items, be nudged along by others coming through, and right through to the till at the end. If you create to many spaces where people are bottle-necked or they have trouble maneuvering to see different crafts, you are limiting your sales.
Keep your aisles wide and keep everything streamlined. The frustrated customer does not spend their money in a craft show booth that frustrates them.
Remember, you are running a business. Think of that store that you despise going into versus the one where everything flows so nicely, the displays are appealing and all of the price tags are on the items for sale. Make your craft show booth resemble the store you like - and you'll find that people will spend more money on your crafts!
Putting Patterns on Porcelain
Today there are many options for putting colorful patterns onto porcelain china. Some, like decoupage, waterslide decals and air-dry paints like Delta Air-Dry PermEnamel are within the reach of any home crafter.
Others, like dye sublimation printing, transfer printing and hand-glazing high-fired pottery require substantial investment in equipment and are best suited to well-capitalized businesses and artists’ cooperatives.
The two classic ways of putting patterns onto porcelain, hand-painting and transfer printing, still exist today. In addition, there is a high-tech version of waterslide decals used commercially which consists of screen-printing decals with glazes and applying the decals to the porcelain. In each case, the pottery is high-fired before decorating to at least cone 6. [Cone is a measure of heat absorption resulting from heat applied over time. Cone 6 translates to between 2165 and 2269 degrees F (depending on how fast the kiln heats – or ramps – up).] Such high-firing produces the hard almost-translucent quality of genuine porcelain. Then the piece is decorated and lightly fired repeatedly to melt and fuse the glazes to the porcelain.
Incidentally, the term “porcelain” has been applied more and more broadly as new techniques developed. Ask any potter to define “porcelain” and he will likely give you the classic definition. To a potter, genuine porcelain is high-fired (cone 6 or higher) white clay that is at least somewhat translucent. It has a large proportion of kaolin clay, with the remainder being primarily feldspar and silica. This clay composition accounts for the pure white gleam of porcelain.
Artisans who paint porcelain (rather than actually make it) refer to three grades of porcelain: hard-paste, soft-paste, and bone china. They all contain kaolin but only hard-paste has feldspar and silica and is high-fired. The high temperatures cause the body and the glaze to fuse. When hard-paste porcelain is broken, it is impossible to distinguish the body from the glaze.
Soft-paste porcelain adds ground glass or frit (material for glass that is not yet fused and vitrified) and is fired to between cone 01 and 1 (1999 to 2109 degrees F). Because soft-paste porcelain is fired at lower temperatures, it does not completely vitrify and remains slightly porous. When soft-paste porcelain is broken, you can distinguish a grainy body covered with a glassy layer of glaze.
Bone china has bone ash added to the kaolin and vitrifies (becomes glass-like) somewhere between cone 2 and cone 5 (2034 to 2205 F). Though not as hard as true porcelain, bone china is more durable than soft-paste porcelain. The bone ash greatly increases the translucence of the porcelain.
Finally, go to a tile store and look at their “porcelain” tiles. If you turn them over, you will see base clay ranging from white to brown to gray. The definition of “porcelain” in the tile industry has nothing to do with the clay content or level of firing. Rather, tile manufacturers define as “porcelain” any tile fired to the point where it absorbs less than 3% moisture.
Others, like dye sublimation printing, transfer printing and hand-glazing high-fired pottery require substantial investment in equipment and are best suited to well-capitalized businesses and artists’ cooperatives.
The two classic ways of putting patterns onto porcelain, hand-painting and transfer printing, still exist today. In addition, there is a high-tech version of waterslide decals used commercially which consists of screen-printing decals with glazes and applying the decals to the porcelain. In each case, the pottery is high-fired before decorating to at least cone 6. [Cone is a measure of heat absorption resulting from heat applied over time. Cone 6 translates to between 2165 and 2269 degrees F (depending on how fast the kiln heats – or ramps – up).] Such high-firing produces the hard almost-translucent quality of genuine porcelain. Then the piece is decorated and lightly fired repeatedly to melt and fuse the glazes to the porcelain.
Incidentally, the term “porcelain” has been applied more and more broadly as new techniques developed. Ask any potter to define “porcelain” and he will likely give you the classic definition. To a potter, genuine porcelain is high-fired (cone 6 or higher) white clay that is at least somewhat translucent. It has a large proportion of kaolin clay, with the remainder being primarily feldspar and silica. This clay composition accounts for the pure white gleam of porcelain.
Artisans who paint porcelain (rather than actually make it) refer to three grades of porcelain: hard-paste, soft-paste, and bone china. They all contain kaolin but only hard-paste has feldspar and silica and is high-fired. The high temperatures cause the body and the glaze to fuse. When hard-paste porcelain is broken, it is impossible to distinguish the body from the glaze.
Soft-paste porcelain adds ground glass or frit (material for glass that is not yet fused and vitrified) and is fired to between cone 01 and 1 (1999 to 2109 degrees F). Because soft-paste porcelain is fired at lower temperatures, it does not completely vitrify and remains slightly porous. When soft-paste porcelain is broken, you can distinguish a grainy body covered with a glassy layer of glaze.
Bone china has bone ash added to the kaolin and vitrifies (becomes glass-like) somewhere between cone 2 and cone 5 (2034 to 2205 F). Though not as hard as true porcelain, bone china is more durable than soft-paste porcelain. The bone ash greatly increases the translucence of the porcelain.
Finally, go to a tile store and look at their “porcelain” tiles. If you turn them over, you will see base clay ranging from white to brown to gray. The definition of “porcelain” in the tile industry has nothing to do with the clay content or level of firing. Rather, tile manufacturers define as “porcelain” any tile fired to the point where it absorbs less than 3% moisture.
Learn How to Make a Knitted Doll
Many times, you have some free time to spend and you are confused as what to do then? There are many great ideas to utilize that time efficiently and creatively. One of them is making or designing some craft work. Craft is the art or skill of doing something in an artistic way. There are lots of craft ideas such as candle making, scrap booking, fabric painting, painting projects, knitting etc. Among these, knitting is the most favorite craft work for women and many of them love to knit soft toys such as dolls.
Requirements for making a knitted doll
The knitted doll is very soft and simple to make. You can make it with any soft yarn kept for baby clothing that will really make it a gift for your kid. For making this, you need to have scissors, darning needles, ruler, knitting needles of size 8, cream colored ball of yarn or nay other color of your preference, a piece of 5/16 blue sheer ribbon, 5/16 blue elastic.
Steps to make a knitted doll
1. You need to cast on 34 stitches with the help of soft colored yarn but remember to leave a 5 inch end that you will sew later.
2. You have to knit eight rows so that the bottom of the doll is formed.
3. Then, change the pattern to create the body of the doll and for this you need to knit one row, purl one row till you complete 62 rows.
4. Next, cast off your stitches and cut the knitted piece from the ball of yarn again leaving 5 inch that you will sew later.
5. Now thread your darning needle with any of the 5 inch end and sew the end in the closest side. This will later roll up the sides of the doll such that the stitching is not shown.
6. Again, thread your needle with remaining 5 inch end and sew it to the closest side so that you can roll up the knitted side to form the doll.
7. Once you have the knitted piece complete, you need to roll and shape it up in the form of a doll. You have to lay down the knitted piece front side down on your work surface but keep the backside facing you flat.
8. Next, roll the edges tightly starting from each end so that they meet in the middle but remember to keep each rolled side even in size.
9. Now, turn the knitted piece that you have rolled up over your work surface. This way, the rolled side should be facing your work surface and the other side with eight knitted rows towards you.
10. Then fold the rolled knitted piece almost in half and the edge of the side you have just folded should be touching the top edge of the eight knitted rows.
11. Next hold the folded knitted piece tightly with one hand and wrap elastic twice over the folded area nearly one and half inch down from the top. This will make the head of the doll and also secure the fold you made to form the body of the doll.
12. Now, partially unroll the folded over knitted piece below the elastic but you need to unroll the knitted piece till you get the resemblance of the arms on either side of the body and also knitted areas stretched between them.
13. Now, flip the partial unrolled portion below the elastic over the head. This will make a hood covering the head with rolled up arms near the elastic that divides and creates the neck and hands.
14. You need to cut 15 inch length of sheer blue ribbon and wrap this blue ribbon round the hood from back to front in same position as the elastic. You can tie a bow in the blue ribbon with the bow in front of the doll. You can trim the end of the ribbon at a slant.
Thus, you have a knitted doll that you can gift to your kids or decorate it as a craft work piece.
To know more, visit our recommended website craft-books.net
Requirements for making a knitted doll
The knitted doll is very soft and simple to make. You can make it with any soft yarn kept for baby clothing that will really make it a gift for your kid. For making this, you need to have scissors, darning needles, ruler, knitting needles of size 8, cream colored ball of yarn or nay other color of your preference, a piece of 5/16 blue sheer ribbon, 5/16 blue elastic.
Steps to make a knitted doll
1. You need to cast on 34 stitches with the help of soft colored yarn but remember to leave a 5 inch end that you will sew later.
2. You have to knit eight rows so that the bottom of the doll is formed.
3. Then, change the pattern to create the body of the doll and for this you need to knit one row, purl one row till you complete 62 rows.
4. Next, cast off your stitches and cut the knitted piece from the ball of yarn again leaving 5 inch that you will sew later.
5. Now thread your darning needle with any of the 5 inch end and sew the end in the closest side. This will later roll up the sides of the doll such that the stitching is not shown.
6. Again, thread your needle with remaining 5 inch end and sew it to the closest side so that you can roll up the knitted side to form the doll.
7. Once you have the knitted piece complete, you need to roll and shape it up in the form of a doll. You have to lay down the knitted piece front side down on your work surface but keep the backside facing you flat.
8. Next, roll the edges tightly starting from each end so that they meet in the middle but remember to keep each rolled side even in size.
9. Now, turn the knitted piece that you have rolled up over your work surface. This way, the rolled side should be facing your work surface and the other side with eight knitted rows towards you.
10. Then fold the rolled knitted piece almost in half and the edge of the side you have just folded should be touching the top edge of the eight knitted rows.
11. Next hold the folded knitted piece tightly with one hand and wrap elastic twice over the folded area nearly one and half inch down from the top. This will make the head of the doll and also secure the fold you made to form the body of the doll.
12. Now, partially unroll the folded over knitted piece below the elastic but you need to unroll the knitted piece till you get the resemblance of the arms on either side of the body and also knitted areas stretched between them.
13. Now, flip the partial unrolled portion below the elastic over the head. This will make a hood covering the head with rolled up arms near the elastic that divides and creates the neck and hands.
14. You need to cut 15 inch length of sheer blue ribbon and wrap this blue ribbon round the hood from back to front in same position as the elastic. You can tie a bow in the blue ribbon with the bow in front of the doll. You can trim the end of the ribbon at a slant.
Thus, you have a knitted doll that you can gift to your kids or decorate it as a craft work piece.
To know more, visit our recommended website craft-books.net
Make a Recycled CD Valentine Hanging
Art and crafts is something that allows you to improve your skills and at the same time you can also make the best use of something that would otherwise be thrown out somewhere else. Here some tips are being given so that you can easily make a valentine hanging made from recycled CD’s.
You need to have 3 CD’s, 4 red heart paper doily of 6” each, 1 sheet of red construction paper 9” * 12”, Moroccan red opaque acrylic paint, ¼” red satin ribbon, wood curtain ring, white craft glue and newspapers.
1. First you need to spread out some newspaper on your work surface. Lay the three CDs on the newspaper and squeeze some of the red acrylic paint into the yogurt container. Paint a thick coat of paint onto the first side of the three CD’s. Let them dry completely.
2. When the paint takes its time to dry you can make the cupid portion of this craft. Then draw or trace a cupid shape onto a piece of construction paper. Then cut it out without any of the lines showing and set it aside.
3. Now turn the three CD’s over and paint the other side with a thick coat of paint and let it dry completely.
4. When the paint on the second side is dry, it is the time to add the doilies and the cupid to the CD’s. The doilies are large enough to cover the entire surface of a CD such that you can spread the glue on the entire surface of the two CD’s and then press a heart shaped doily down onto the CD. Smooth out the doily so that there are no bumps and if you do this way there should not be any such bumps or lines. When you get a doily ready on one side of the two CD’s repeat the process of gluing the other side of the CD. Spread a thin layer of glue between the portion of the doilies that extend past the edges of the CD and press the doilies together. Repeat for the doilies on the second CD and rest the CD on top of a bottle to dry so that it doesn’t sticks to a surface.
5. Now arrange the cupid shape on one side of the remaining painted CD and when you are satisfied with the arrangement lift up the cupid shape, spread glue on the back of the cupid where it will come in contact with the CD and press it back into place, smoothing out nay wrinkles.
6. Measure and cut a 33” piece of the ribbon and lay it down on your work surface. Tie one end of the ribbon in a knot around the bottom of the curtain ring. Trim that end of the ribbon but it should not be too close to the knot or it will come undone. You are however free to add a small drop of glue behind the knot to keep it secured.
7. Arrange the three CDs on top of it with an equal amount of space between each. The first CD with a heart doily on it should be arranged below the wood ring, the second CD below that and then the final CD. When you are satisfied with the arrangement, lift the CD’s up one at a time, squeeze a line of glue down the ribbon where it will touch the CD and press it back to the place. Make sure that you have at least 4” of ribbon hanging down below the last CD. Let the glue dry completely before hanging.
Visit craft-books.net
You need to have 3 CD’s, 4 red heart paper doily of 6” each, 1 sheet of red construction paper 9” * 12”, Moroccan red opaque acrylic paint, ¼” red satin ribbon, wood curtain ring, white craft glue and newspapers.
1. First you need to spread out some newspaper on your work surface. Lay the three CDs on the newspaper and squeeze some of the red acrylic paint into the yogurt container. Paint a thick coat of paint onto the first side of the three CD’s. Let them dry completely.
2. When the paint takes its time to dry you can make the cupid portion of this craft. Then draw or trace a cupid shape onto a piece of construction paper. Then cut it out without any of the lines showing and set it aside.
3. Now turn the three CD’s over and paint the other side with a thick coat of paint and let it dry completely.
4. When the paint on the second side is dry, it is the time to add the doilies and the cupid to the CD’s. The doilies are large enough to cover the entire surface of a CD such that you can spread the glue on the entire surface of the two CD’s and then press a heart shaped doily down onto the CD. Smooth out the doily so that there are no bumps and if you do this way there should not be any such bumps or lines. When you get a doily ready on one side of the two CD’s repeat the process of gluing the other side of the CD. Spread a thin layer of glue between the portion of the doilies that extend past the edges of the CD and press the doilies together. Repeat for the doilies on the second CD and rest the CD on top of a bottle to dry so that it doesn’t sticks to a surface.
5. Now arrange the cupid shape on one side of the remaining painted CD and when you are satisfied with the arrangement lift up the cupid shape, spread glue on the back of the cupid where it will come in contact with the CD and press it back into place, smoothing out nay wrinkles.
6. Measure and cut a 33” piece of the ribbon and lay it down on your work surface. Tie one end of the ribbon in a knot around the bottom of the curtain ring. Trim that end of the ribbon but it should not be too close to the knot or it will come undone. You are however free to add a small drop of glue behind the knot to keep it secured.
7. Arrange the three CDs on top of it with an equal amount of space between each. The first CD with a heart doily on it should be arranged below the wood ring, the second CD below that and then the final CD. When you are satisfied with the arrangement, lift the CD’s up one at a time, squeeze a line of glue down the ribbon where it will touch the CD and press it back to the place. Make sure that you have at least 4” of ribbon hanging down below the last CD. Let the glue dry completely before hanging.
Visit craft-books.net
Hawaii Silk Floral Arrangements
Hawaii silk floral arrangements are used all over the world for their beauty and stunning arrangement. These flowers are seasonal and are not available at all times. To be able to get hawaii silk floral arrangements all year round, we have to settle for the artificial variety. Asian Lanterns, Boyle Silk Floral Supply, Kinkade Studios and Outback Boutique are great sources for artificial Hawaii silk floral arrangements .
How to prepare a Hawaii silk floral arrangement called a lei: The flowers are sorted by size, color, and quality prior to stringing. A special lei needle and twine are used to fashion the blossoms into a strand about 40 inches in length. The strand is then tied with ribbon to form the typical lei. The metal lei needle is 12 to 18 inches long with a sharp point at one end and a small hook on the other end to hold the twine.
To make an orchid lei: hold a blossom flat in one hand and insert the needle carefully through the bottom of the flower, then through the center, and finally through the other end. Push the blossom down onto the lei needle and repeat the process until you have five or six blossoms on the needle. Wrap your free hand around the flowers and pull the needle and then the lei twine gently through the flowers. Repeat this process until the lei is the length you want.
Hawaii silk floral arrangements can be used for many occasions. According to the occasion the arrangement and the flowers included will vary. The occasions can be everyday decoration, anniversary, baby, get well soon gift and sympathy gift. From the arrangement of flowers the celebration or the occasions will be identified.
Silk flowers and plants are great for use in home decor or commercial business decor and are available from retailers such as designers, gift shops and promotional companies.
How to prepare a Hawaii silk floral arrangement called a lei: The flowers are sorted by size, color, and quality prior to stringing. A special lei needle and twine are used to fashion the blossoms into a strand about 40 inches in length. The strand is then tied with ribbon to form the typical lei. The metal lei needle is 12 to 18 inches long with a sharp point at one end and a small hook on the other end to hold the twine.
To make an orchid lei: hold a blossom flat in one hand and insert the needle carefully through the bottom of the flower, then through the center, and finally through the other end. Push the blossom down onto the lei needle and repeat the process until you have five or six blossoms on the needle. Wrap your free hand around the flowers and pull the needle and then the lei twine gently through the flowers. Repeat this process until the lei is the length you want.
Hawaii silk floral arrangements can be used for many occasions. According to the occasion the arrangement and the flowers included will vary. The occasions can be everyday decoration, anniversary, baby, get well soon gift and sympathy gift. From the arrangement of flowers the celebration or the occasions will be identified.
Silk flowers and plants are great for use in home decor or commercial business decor and are available from retailers such as designers, gift shops and promotional companies.
How To Make A Cookie Bouquet
I love making bouquets. There are so many different types you can make... Posies, wedding bouquets, candy bouquets, fruit bouquets and more.
One type of bouquet that I recently started making, is a cookie bouquet...
A cookie bouquet is a bouquet made with cookies, and leaves. They are very fun, and quite easy to make. This article shows how to make a cookie bouquet in 5 easy steps...
You will need:
- 9 Chocolate chip cookies
- 2 Bunches of floristry wire
- Cellophane
- Stem-tape
- Leaves
** Step 1: Wire and tape the leaves **
Wire and tape the leaves...
Wire the leaf by pushing the wire through the silk part of the leaf, behind the stem, loop it around, and then go back through the leaf, and down to the wire.
Then stem tape the wire by holding the wire in one hand, and wrapping (and stretching), the stem tape with the other hand. Make sure to tape right up to the leaf.
** Step 2: Prepare cookies **
Cut the cellophane into 9 squares. Make sure the squares are large enough to fit a cookie.
Wrap the cookies in the cellophane, and then twist the end of the cellophane.
Now wire and tape the cellophane, and snip off any excess cellophane.
** Step 3: Fan the cookies **
Hold the cookies in a bunch in one hand. Then fan the cookies out slightly, to leave spaces for the leaves...
** Step 4: Fill in with leaves **
Start to place your leaves in between the cookies. Fan the leaves out to make a circular shape. Then squeeze the bouquet together. If you have any gaps left then you can fill them in with more leaves.
** Step 5: Prepare the handle **
Neaten the ends of the wires in the handle by trimming them with cutters.
Then stem-tape the handle, and add ribbon trailers if you wish.
That's it! You'll find any candy bouquets you make are instant hits with anyone that sees them. People just seem to LOVE cookie bouquets!
One type of bouquet that I recently started making, is a cookie bouquet...
A cookie bouquet is a bouquet made with cookies, and leaves. They are very fun, and quite easy to make. This article shows how to make a cookie bouquet in 5 easy steps...
You will need:
- 9 Chocolate chip cookies
- 2 Bunches of floristry wire
- Cellophane
- Stem-tape
- Leaves
** Step 1: Wire and tape the leaves **
Wire and tape the leaves...
Wire the leaf by pushing the wire through the silk part of the leaf, behind the stem, loop it around, and then go back through the leaf, and down to the wire.
Then stem tape the wire by holding the wire in one hand, and wrapping (and stretching), the stem tape with the other hand. Make sure to tape right up to the leaf.
** Step 2: Prepare cookies **
Cut the cellophane into 9 squares. Make sure the squares are large enough to fit a cookie.
Wrap the cookies in the cellophane, and then twist the end of the cellophane.
Now wire and tape the cellophane, and snip off any excess cellophane.
** Step 3: Fan the cookies **
Hold the cookies in a bunch in one hand. Then fan the cookies out slightly, to leave spaces for the leaves...
** Step 4: Fill in with leaves **
Start to place your leaves in between the cookies. Fan the leaves out to make a circular shape. Then squeeze the bouquet together. If you have any gaps left then you can fill them in with more leaves.
** Step 5: Prepare the handle **
Neaten the ends of the wires in the handle by trimming them with cutters.
Then stem-tape the handle, and add ribbon trailers if you wish.
That's it! You'll find any candy bouquets you make are instant hits with anyone that sees them. People just seem to LOVE cookie bouquets!
How To Make A Candy Bouquet In A Coffee Cup
Oh No! Its your Aunt Sally's 60th birthday, and she's coming over to see everyone. Normally you would think this is good news, but no-one told you, and you don't have a gift for her!
Don't Panic! There's a simple gift you can make her that she will absolutely love... It's a candy bouquet in a coffee cup, and you can make one using a coffee cup, some leaves, and some flower shaped candies!
Step 1: Find a suitable coffee cup...
Most people have lots of coffee cups in their house. Maybe you have a cup from an old coffee set that got broken?
Try and find a nice looking cup, as it will ruin the effect of the candy bouquet if you use an old tacky, chipped cup!
Step 2: Prepare the coffee cup to hold the candy...
Take some dried oasis and push it into the coffee cup. If you don't have an oasis, you can stuff the cup with cellophane, but an oasis will work much better, as it will hold the flowers up much more firmly.
Before placing the oasis into the cup, place a square of cellophane in at the bottom. This will make it easier to clean later, as any flakes that fall off the oasis will be caught by the cellophane.
Step 3: Add the leaves for the candy bouquet...
Place some leaves around the outside edge of the cup. Make sure that the leaves overlap slightly as this will give a nice fanned effect. Try and space the leaves out evenly, but don't worry too much if the aren't spaced perfectly... it will make the bouquet seem more natural.
Step 4: Insert the candy flowers...
The next step is to place the candy flowers into the cup. Start in the middle and work your way out until all the candy flowers have been used. Depending on the size cup, and candy you are using, this could be anywhere between 5 to 11 candies.
Step 5: Fill the gaps with leaves...
When you give the candy bouquet to Aunt Sally, you don't want her to see the oasis inside the cup, as this will ruin the effect. So fill in any gaps where you can see through to the oasis, with leaves.
Step 6: Add some ribbon...
Personally, I like candy bouquets that have some ribbon. Place some ribbon around the cup, and maybe even add a figure-of-eight-bow to soften the bouquet a little.
That's it, all done! Very quick and easy, I think you'll agree! This Candy Bouquet looks great, and will make an ideal present for anyone, especially Aunt Sally! Just don't be surprised if it's half eaten next time you see it!
Don't Panic! There's a simple gift you can make her that she will absolutely love... It's a candy bouquet in a coffee cup, and you can make one using a coffee cup, some leaves, and some flower shaped candies!
Step 1: Find a suitable coffee cup...
Most people have lots of coffee cups in their house. Maybe you have a cup from an old coffee set that got broken?
Try and find a nice looking cup, as it will ruin the effect of the candy bouquet if you use an old tacky, chipped cup!
Step 2: Prepare the coffee cup to hold the candy...
Take some dried oasis and push it into the coffee cup. If you don't have an oasis, you can stuff the cup with cellophane, but an oasis will work much better, as it will hold the flowers up much more firmly.
Before placing the oasis into the cup, place a square of cellophane in at the bottom. This will make it easier to clean later, as any flakes that fall off the oasis will be caught by the cellophane.
Step 3: Add the leaves for the candy bouquet...
Place some leaves around the outside edge of the cup. Make sure that the leaves overlap slightly as this will give a nice fanned effect. Try and space the leaves out evenly, but don't worry too much if the aren't spaced perfectly... it will make the bouquet seem more natural.
Step 4: Insert the candy flowers...
The next step is to place the candy flowers into the cup. Start in the middle and work your way out until all the candy flowers have been used. Depending on the size cup, and candy you are using, this could be anywhere between 5 to 11 candies.
Step 5: Fill the gaps with leaves...
When you give the candy bouquet to Aunt Sally, you don't want her to see the oasis inside the cup, as this will ruin the effect. So fill in any gaps where you can see through to the oasis, with leaves.
Step 6: Add some ribbon...
Personally, I like candy bouquets that have some ribbon. Place some ribbon around the cup, and maybe even add a figure-of-eight-bow to soften the bouquet a little.
That's it, all done! Very quick and easy, I think you'll agree! This Candy Bouquet looks great, and will make an ideal present for anyone, especially Aunt Sally! Just don't be surprised if it's half eaten next time you see it!
Design your Electrical Lamp
We’ve got a little theme going: designs formed from their mechanical parts. The Electrical Lamp, by designer Tommy Dykes, is made from an old electrical cable which runs from outlet to electrical bulb, with the body molded around a used wine bottle. The eco-lamp comes with a super-efficient electrical bulb that provides up to 50,000 hours of light (which they calculate at 27 years at a rate of 5hrs/day).
The coolest part about the Lead Lamp is that the website essentially offers DIY instructions for making your own lamp with a cord from an old household appliance, with diagrams and step-by-step details — plus lots of information about the recycling and reuse of PVC power cables.
Appliance cords found in the home are made from the Thermoplastic, PVC [polyvinyl chloride.] The term thermoplastic means simply a plastic that when heated softens and hardens again when cooled. This allows it to be moulded into shapes. (Can’t help but wonder about the off-gassing from heating old electrical cables, which is part of the process of making these.)
We love the crafty DIY element of these lamps, and the variety of options you have in selecting the color and thickness of the cord, and the style of used lampshade. You could go basic white like this one, or choose a crazy tassled thing and a bold colored body.
The coolest part about the Lead Lamp is that the website essentially offers DIY instructions for making your own lamp with a cord from an old household appliance, with diagrams and step-by-step details — plus lots of information about the recycling and reuse of PVC power cables.
Appliance cords found in the home are made from the Thermoplastic, PVC [polyvinyl chloride.] The term thermoplastic means simply a plastic that when heated softens and hardens again when cooled. This allows it to be moulded into shapes. (Can’t help but wonder about the off-gassing from heating old electrical cables, which is part of the process of making these.)
We love the crafty DIY element of these lamps, and the variety of options you have in selecting the color and thickness of the cord, and the style of used lampshade. You could go basic white like this one, or choose a crazy tassled thing and a bold colored body.
An Introduction to Quilting
"The art of quilting integrated the European and African cultures in America during the slave period. The African folk-tradition was considered inferior, and the European superior. In spite of this gap, quilting brought about the unity of these two traditions and cultures.
It brought the values of both the African and European American women together in a way no folk art tradition did before. Both of them deeply rely on the traditions of storytelling and folklore. Uniting women to sew and pass the traditions to new generations are the common characteristics of both traditions.
Not only did both African and European Americans make quilts to provide warm blankets for their families, but also to show their creativity and gain status, record family history, and to represent various themes and beliefs. Women considered it to be the best way to spend time together and display their skills.
Despite the fact that quilting is a process with individual interpretations, it is also a cultural process that came into being from the exchange and merging of both African and European traditions. The emergence of American quilting was one of the products of this process. The quilting styles of both traditions are highly symbolic. Both of them deeply rely on the traditions of storytelling and folklore. Uniting women to sew and pass the traditions to new generations are the common characteristics of both traditions."
I make no apology for quoting these extracts, if you like, from my e-Book - The Essential Guide to Quilting. The book is basically about learning how to quilt, but firstly I felt that it was important to have a look at the history of quilting - like a lot of you reading this, I had no idea about how important this craft was to our history, indeed for much of the world.
I go into more detail on the History in the e-Book, so, as I said in my Autobiography, when I started Quilting several years ago, there was not that much good information about how to start thus I took a break from quilting to write the e-Book - The Essential Guide to Quilting - to put my readers on the right road without the hit & miss ride that I had, when I might have given up at times.
Most important to start out is to learn the main quilting terms, here are just a few:
1. Applique - Appliques are pieces of fabric applied to other pieces of fabric, using fusible webbing or stitching. The stitching can be done by hand or with a machine. Buttonhole, satin or blind stitches are the usual methods used.
2. Basting - Spray basting, thread basting and pin basting are common methods of basting. This process involves holding the quilt top, batting (the middle layer between quilts - usually cotton, wool or polyester) and backing together to finally sew it all together.
3. Bearding - the process of pulling the batting fibers through the tops and bottoms of the quilt, through the holes created during sewing, to produce a whiskered effect.
4. Cheater's Panel/Cloth - They are pieces of fabric printed with quilt block designs. They are made to resemble a pieced or appliqued quilt top.
Here I have selected some of the less obvious terms in quilting with a quick description to draw attention to the need to learn them in order to get the most out of this fascinating craft. There are lots of terms to learn - believe me when I say I am not trying to put you off, merely to help you on your way.
(Article by Rose visit at http://www.aquiltingbee.com)
It brought the values of both the African and European American women together in a way no folk art tradition did before. Both of them deeply rely on the traditions of storytelling and folklore. Uniting women to sew and pass the traditions to new generations are the common characteristics of both traditions.
Not only did both African and European Americans make quilts to provide warm blankets for their families, but also to show their creativity and gain status, record family history, and to represent various themes and beliefs. Women considered it to be the best way to spend time together and display their skills.
Despite the fact that quilting is a process with individual interpretations, it is also a cultural process that came into being from the exchange and merging of both African and European traditions. The emergence of American quilting was one of the products of this process. The quilting styles of both traditions are highly symbolic. Both of them deeply rely on the traditions of storytelling and folklore. Uniting women to sew and pass the traditions to new generations are the common characteristics of both traditions."
I make no apology for quoting these extracts, if you like, from my e-Book - The Essential Guide to Quilting. The book is basically about learning how to quilt, but firstly I felt that it was important to have a look at the history of quilting - like a lot of you reading this, I had no idea about how important this craft was to our history, indeed for much of the world.
I go into more detail on the History in the e-Book, so, as I said in my Autobiography, when I started Quilting several years ago, there was not that much good information about how to start thus I took a break from quilting to write the e-Book - The Essential Guide to Quilting - to put my readers on the right road without the hit & miss ride that I had, when I might have given up at times.
Most important to start out is to learn the main quilting terms, here are just a few:
1. Applique - Appliques are pieces of fabric applied to other pieces of fabric, using fusible webbing or stitching. The stitching can be done by hand or with a machine. Buttonhole, satin or blind stitches are the usual methods used.
2. Basting - Spray basting, thread basting and pin basting are common methods of basting. This process involves holding the quilt top, batting (the middle layer between quilts - usually cotton, wool or polyester) and backing together to finally sew it all together.
3. Bearding - the process of pulling the batting fibers through the tops and bottoms of the quilt, through the holes created during sewing, to produce a whiskered effect.
4. Cheater's Panel/Cloth - They are pieces of fabric printed with quilt block designs. They are made to resemble a pieced or appliqued quilt top.
Here I have selected some of the less obvious terms in quilting with a quick description to draw attention to the need to learn them in order to get the most out of this fascinating craft. There are lots of terms to learn - believe me when I say I am not trying to put you off, merely to help you on your way.
(Article by Rose visit at http://www.aquiltingbee.com)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Bring The Smell Of Nature Into Your Home With These Fragrant Flowers
A lot of money is spent in this country to reproduce fragrances for perfumes and air fresheners. The majority of these manufactured fragrances have alcohol and other additives that can actually irritate the membranes in your nose. Nature has done it the best and these are some of the most heavenly fragrances you’ll ever smell.
1) Hyacinth! This highly fragrant flower is actually a member of the lily family. Lily’s tend to grow much larger than the hyacinth but if you look closely at this flower you will see that the clusters of these blooms are tubular in shape just like the lily. Hyacinths have been a popular garden flower since the 17 hundreds because of the brilliance of there color (of every shade) and because of the incredible fragrance they have. Whether you have them planted out doors or in a pot in your home, this beautiful flower will brighten up any space and give off a constant heavenly fragrance, but, it is not overpowering. I just can’t imagine a perfume that smells any better than this. And men, instead of giving her some fresh cut flowers, try giving her a hyacinth plant. It will last longer and she can replant it again next year if she wants to put it in a garden.
2) The most fragrant flowers are the pure white Casa Blanca and the dark pink Stargazer lily. They are absolutely beautiful, but beware; the fragrance they give off is so strong, that, one bouquet of lilies can fill up an entire room. Don’t place them where you are going to sit for any length of time unless, that is what you want. They don’t do well in direct sunlight or drafts so place them in a more diffused lit area. If you replace the water every couple of days and add flower food plus a new snip of the ends, you’ll have a long lasting, beautiful fragrant arrangement.
3) Tuber roses are not actually roses. Like the hyacinth, a tuber rose has a stem with clusters of flowers that are all white. Once again, the smell is fantastic. I once picked off one little petal from the cluster and put it in my car. A few hours later I return to my vehicle and was pleasantly surprised at how wonderful it smelled. My children noticed it as well. It was the perfect natural air freshener.
4) Gardenias! These flowers that bloom on trees have a very short life after they are cut, but for the little time you have them in your home is worth it. Generally gardenias are made into a corsage for special occasions, but if you don’t want to do that, you can place the flower in a low dish of water and then just leave them alone to do their work.
5) There are some roses that have been bred for their fragrance such as the peach colored Oceana rose or the Sterling Silver rose (which is actually purple). Each of these have a light perfume to them. Any of the purple roses have a wonderful smell.
You can order any of these flowers from your local florist. If they don’t have them on hand you can ask them to order some for you. In most cases, if you place an order before noon, you should be able to pick them up later in the afternoon.
Rather than putting chemicals in the air, you may want to get some flowers now and again and enjoy nature’s perfume.
Enjoy!
1) Hyacinth! This highly fragrant flower is actually a member of the lily family. Lily’s tend to grow much larger than the hyacinth but if you look closely at this flower you will see that the clusters of these blooms are tubular in shape just like the lily. Hyacinths have been a popular garden flower since the 17 hundreds because of the brilliance of there color (of every shade) and because of the incredible fragrance they have. Whether you have them planted out doors or in a pot in your home, this beautiful flower will brighten up any space and give off a constant heavenly fragrance, but, it is not overpowering. I just can’t imagine a perfume that smells any better than this. And men, instead of giving her some fresh cut flowers, try giving her a hyacinth plant. It will last longer and she can replant it again next year if she wants to put it in a garden.
2) The most fragrant flowers are the pure white Casa Blanca and the dark pink Stargazer lily. They are absolutely beautiful, but beware; the fragrance they give off is so strong, that, one bouquet of lilies can fill up an entire room. Don’t place them where you are going to sit for any length of time unless, that is what you want. They don’t do well in direct sunlight or drafts so place them in a more diffused lit area. If you replace the water every couple of days and add flower food plus a new snip of the ends, you’ll have a long lasting, beautiful fragrant arrangement.
3) Tuber roses are not actually roses. Like the hyacinth, a tuber rose has a stem with clusters of flowers that are all white. Once again, the smell is fantastic. I once picked off one little petal from the cluster and put it in my car. A few hours later I return to my vehicle and was pleasantly surprised at how wonderful it smelled. My children noticed it as well. It was the perfect natural air freshener.
4) Gardenias! These flowers that bloom on trees have a very short life after they are cut, but for the little time you have them in your home is worth it. Generally gardenias are made into a corsage for special occasions, but if you don’t want to do that, you can place the flower in a low dish of water and then just leave them alone to do their work.
5) There are some roses that have been bred for their fragrance such as the peach colored Oceana rose or the Sterling Silver rose (which is actually purple). Each of these have a light perfume to them. Any of the purple roses have a wonderful smell.
You can order any of these flowers from your local florist. If they don’t have them on hand you can ask them to order some for you. In most cases, if you place an order before noon, you should be able to pick them up later in the afternoon.
Rather than putting chemicals in the air, you may want to get some flowers now and again and enjoy nature’s perfume.
Enjoy!
Battery Powered Chainsaws
Battery powered chainsaws are fairly rare in the United States, but if you are interested in a battery powered chainsaw you can find them. It may take some digging to do. There is one brand currently being offered that claims a single chain blade can cut 4,000 pieces of PVC pipe with only a small amount of oil required.
This saw has a chain tip guard to prevent kickback and extend chain life. The electric brake stops within ½ second of releasing the trigger. It also has hand guards. A hex wrench allows for rapid blade changes and adjustments.
The chain guard allows fast entry to the blade and motor housing area. The 12 V.N1-MH battery gives you a longer operating time. You can buy an optional handle if you will need a longer reach. This 4.6 pound dynamo cuts through a variety of PVC piping diameters.
We found two other brands of battery powered chainsaws. One made in China has a 12 volt battery and a shock absorption system. The other brand has an 18 volt battery and a 10 inch chain. There is little information currently available on these saws and most of what is available is anecdotal.
On one message board we found a discussion thread on cordless battery operated chainsaws. One participant said he made 12 cuts and took down a five inch sugar maple.
Another said he got one and it wouldn’t cut a two inch twig – he had the chain on backwards. Overall it looks like the ideal chainsaw for the occasional user who wants to do some light pruning or to take down small trees.
This saw has a chain tip guard to prevent kickback and extend chain life. The electric brake stops within ½ second of releasing the trigger. It also has hand guards. A hex wrench allows for rapid blade changes and adjustments.
The chain guard allows fast entry to the blade and motor housing area. The 12 V.N1-MH battery gives you a longer operating time. You can buy an optional handle if you will need a longer reach. This 4.6 pound dynamo cuts through a variety of PVC piping diameters.
We found two other brands of battery powered chainsaws. One made in China has a 12 volt battery and a shock absorption system. The other brand has an 18 volt battery and a 10 inch chain. There is little information currently available on these saws and most of what is available is anecdotal.
On one message board we found a discussion thread on cordless battery operated chainsaws. One participant said he made 12 cuts and took down a five inch sugar maple.
Another said he got one and it wouldn’t cut a two inch twig – he had the chain on backwards. Overall it looks like the ideal chainsaw for the occasional user who wants to do some light pruning or to take down small trees.
Black Lace-A Flower That Offers Beauty and Berries
Good design not only makes the inside of your home more lovely, it can also take bloom in your garden. And, since plants cost a fraction of the price of new furniture, outdoor decorating can be a lot easier on the wallet. Here are some ideas you may want to cultivate.
Both interior decorators and landscapers consider size, color and texture. A good place to start is by looking at the size of the space. Dwarf plants are very useful in tight spaces, but can get lost in a lush perennial border. Curb appeal and backyard views also demand something bigger. Every garden needs at least one impressive specimen plant to anchor the landscape.
Think about color. Many people focus on flowers and forget about the months that a plant is not in bloom. Plant breeders have responded to this by producing varieties with colorful foliage for season-long appeal.
Texture is another important design element. Large leaves have big impact, while narrow or cutleaf foliage adds delicate interest to gardens. Fine or cutleaf foliage sways with the wind, a lovely effect.
For example, the new Black Lace sambucus has everything the homeowner needs for stylish outdoor spaces. Dark purple leaves provide interesting color all season long, and are a fantastic combination with popular perennials such as black-eyed susans. Like Japanese maple, its finely cut foliage makes it a choice specimen for entryways and other high-impact areas.
Black Lace offers more than color and texture. Its huge pink spring flowers will produce fall berries for jam or wine, or may be left on the plant for wildlife to enjoy. Like all well-designed products, Black Lace offers both form and function.
Best of all, this new plant is adaptable and easy to grow. It's tolerant of most soils, even soggy ones, and will grow in sun or some shade. Six feet tall at maturity, Black Lace doesn't require pruning, although homeowners can cut it back after blooming if desired. A full-sized mature Black Lace is an impressive specimen for either formal gardens or casual backyard scenes. It can also be grown in a decorative container for the patio or deck.
Plant breeders work hard to develop useful new varieties like Black Lace. The Proven Winners brand carefully selects the most beautiful and easy-to-grow varieties so successful gardening is easy. After all, why should fashionable landscapes be reserved for expert gardeners? The rest of us deserve good design, too. Cold hardy and adaptable, Black Lace will thrive for years. It's an easy way to add durable style to your garden.
So are you ready to bring good design into your garden? It's worth the effort. After all, your yard is the biggest room in your house.
Black Lace is just one of over 50 colorful, easy-to-grow Proven Winners ColorChoice varieties. They're easy to find at your garden center-look for the plants in the white pots.
Both interior decorators and landscapers consider size, color and texture. A good place to start is by looking at the size of the space. Dwarf plants are very useful in tight spaces, but can get lost in a lush perennial border. Curb appeal and backyard views also demand something bigger. Every garden needs at least one impressive specimen plant to anchor the landscape.
Think about color. Many people focus on flowers and forget about the months that a plant is not in bloom. Plant breeders have responded to this by producing varieties with colorful foliage for season-long appeal.
Texture is another important design element. Large leaves have big impact, while narrow or cutleaf foliage adds delicate interest to gardens. Fine or cutleaf foliage sways with the wind, a lovely effect.
For example, the new Black Lace sambucus has everything the homeowner needs for stylish outdoor spaces. Dark purple leaves provide interesting color all season long, and are a fantastic combination with popular perennials such as black-eyed susans. Like Japanese maple, its finely cut foliage makes it a choice specimen for entryways and other high-impact areas.
Black Lace offers more than color and texture. Its huge pink spring flowers will produce fall berries for jam or wine, or may be left on the plant for wildlife to enjoy. Like all well-designed products, Black Lace offers both form and function.
Best of all, this new plant is adaptable and easy to grow. It's tolerant of most soils, even soggy ones, and will grow in sun or some shade. Six feet tall at maturity, Black Lace doesn't require pruning, although homeowners can cut it back after blooming if desired. A full-sized mature Black Lace is an impressive specimen for either formal gardens or casual backyard scenes. It can also be grown in a decorative container for the patio or deck.
Plant breeders work hard to develop useful new varieties like Black Lace. The Proven Winners brand carefully selects the most beautiful and easy-to-grow varieties so successful gardening is easy. After all, why should fashionable landscapes be reserved for expert gardeners? The rest of us deserve good design, too. Cold hardy and adaptable, Black Lace will thrive for years. It's an easy way to add durable style to your garden.
So are you ready to bring good design into your garden? It's worth the effort. After all, your yard is the biggest room in your house.
Black Lace is just one of over 50 colorful, easy-to-grow Proven Winners ColorChoice varieties. They're easy to find at your garden center-look for the plants in the white pots.
Beautifying The Garden Or Yard With A Bench
Most homes have gardens or yards. Some of these can be as big as those in mansions while some of these can be small. Despite the beauty of the flowers, trees and grass that make up the garden, the one thing that people take for granted is not being able to enjoy watching it longer. When one frequents public places such as parks, campsites, playgrounds, the zoo, one will notice that there are benches for people to stop and view what is there. It also provides a break from walking and makes someone catch ones breath. A lot of advice on making the garden look better would instruct to buy new plants or make something unique using ceramics. Just like everything else, a bench is an accessory that one must also consider. No one can appreciate the beauty of a garden and the surroundings if no one is able to sit there and appreciate it. That is where the importance of the bench comes in.
1. Know The Area
A garden or yard as mentioned earlier vary according to the size of the home By identifying the places where one can best appreciate the garden, one will not have a hard time buying the right bench for that particular location. The size of the area where the bench will be placed is also very important since this will determine the number of benches one may one to put this after these have been purchased.
2. Know The Kinds Of Benches Available
Parks usually have benches made out of wood or marble. Rest areas along the interstate or even in the zoo use those made out of wood. After identifying the locations, one can easily check out what is available in the market then see which models are suitable for the garden. Some benches have an arm and backrest. Others have a table that go with it so one can enjoy a family barbecue in the back yard. These are some examples of what are available in the market and all it takes is for one to visit the neighborhood furniture store or do some research by the Internet. There are a lot of retailers who offer the same items online and the prices of these are quite competitive. Once the person finds a good bargain, one will just have order it then wait a few days for the delivery to arrive.
3. High Or Low Maitenance?
Benches like an automobile require some maintenance. If a bench is made of plastic and it gets dirty, one can simply wash off the dirt and wipe it making it good as new. Wood on the other hand requires high maintenance. To keep the varnish intact and sparkling, one would have to buy a spray and cloth to keep it in good condition. Benches made out stone or marbledon’t require that much maintenance. They do not rust like benches made out of steel or aluminum though these do chip off.
4. Usage - The Most Important Factor!
- Read a book
- Chat with the other members of the family
- Enjoy the garden
- Watch a sunset
- Eat outdoors
- Barbecue in style
5. An Addition To Your Home - Not Just A Bench
The best of way of buying the right bench for the yard or garden is to figure out the best possible bench money can buy. This does not mean the most expensive but the one that is there for a purpose and not for aesthetic purposes only. The other way if getting the ideal bench will be to build one. If the person were crafty, it would be no problem to build one after buying the right materials. Some pieces of wood, a bunch of nails, and a good hammer and saw. When in doubt how to begin, one can always purchase from the local bookstore an instruction manual or book since there have been several authors who have written about woodwork that show the various designs on how to do it.
1. Know The Area
A garden or yard as mentioned earlier vary according to the size of the home By identifying the places where one can best appreciate the garden, one will not have a hard time buying the right bench for that particular location. The size of the area where the bench will be placed is also very important since this will determine the number of benches one may one to put this after these have been purchased.
2. Know The Kinds Of Benches Available
Parks usually have benches made out of wood or marble. Rest areas along the interstate or even in the zoo use those made out of wood. After identifying the locations, one can easily check out what is available in the market then see which models are suitable for the garden. Some benches have an arm and backrest. Others have a table that go with it so one can enjoy a family barbecue in the back yard. These are some examples of what are available in the market and all it takes is for one to visit the neighborhood furniture store or do some research by the Internet. There are a lot of retailers who offer the same items online and the prices of these are quite competitive. Once the person finds a good bargain, one will just have order it then wait a few days for the delivery to arrive.
3. High Or Low Maitenance?
Benches like an automobile require some maintenance. If a bench is made of plastic and it gets dirty, one can simply wash off the dirt and wipe it making it good as new. Wood on the other hand requires high maintenance. To keep the varnish intact and sparkling, one would have to buy a spray and cloth to keep it in good condition. Benches made out stone or marbledon’t require that much maintenance. They do not rust like benches made out of steel or aluminum though these do chip off.
4. Usage - The Most Important Factor!
- Read a book
- Chat with the other members of the family
- Enjoy the garden
- Watch a sunset
- Eat outdoors
- Barbecue in style
5. An Addition To Your Home - Not Just A Bench
The best of way of buying the right bench for the yard or garden is to figure out the best possible bench money can buy. This does not mean the most expensive but the one that is there for a purpose and not for aesthetic purposes only. The other way if getting the ideal bench will be to build one. If the person were crafty, it would be no problem to build one after buying the right materials. Some pieces of wood, a bunch of nails, and a good hammer and saw. When in doubt how to begin, one can always purchase from the local bookstore an instruction manual or book since there have been several authors who have written about woodwork that show the various designs on how to do it.
Beautiful Artificial Bonsai Tree
Japanese have perfected the technique of growing miniature Artificial Bonsai trees in containers, but many people all over the world have taken up the Bonsai cultivation as a sort of hobby. Artificial Bonsai trees are generally used for aesthetic purposes and are popular as beautiful showpieces or gifts.
Common types of Artificial Bonsai trees include plum, semi-cascade, bamboo, pine, and azalea. Modern techniques have led to five different styles of Artificial Bonsai trees which include cascade, semi-cascade, slanting, informal upright, as well as formal upright. The braided Bonsai money plant tree is one of the most popular out of devoted bonsai growers. This type of tree consists of a group of four or five trees whose trunks have been braided together. Braided Artificial Bonsai trees can be ten to eighteen inches in height, and is said to bring good fortune by Feng shui practitioners.
Artificial Bonsai trees are usually very small with a height that varies from around two inches all the way up to three feet and the shape of Bonsai trees can be changed by wiring the branches and trunk of the tree. You can place your tree in a nice decorative container that matches your décor because they can live for literally years if you take good care of it.
Maintaining Bonsai isn’t difficult at all. You will need a decent set of tools such as root trimmers, shears, pliers, and branch cutters if necessary. If you are a first timer you can enlist the help of a skilled professional who is willing to teach you the art of training and maintaining Bonsai.
Your plant can be trimmed using bypass pruners and the roots should be trimmed to reduce the size. All Bonsai trees need appropriate amounts of fertilizers to grow nice and healthy. Be careful not to over water you Bonsai tree. Those who are new can begin with a common variety such as azalea, boxwood, hibiscus, camellia, or cotoneaster.
Common types of Artificial Bonsai trees include plum, semi-cascade, bamboo, pine, and azalea. Modern techniques have led to five different styles of Artificial Bonsai trees which include cascade, semi-cascade, slanting, informal upright, as well as formal upright. The braided Bonsai money plant tree is one of the most popular out of devoted bonsai growers. This type of tree consists of a group of four or five trees whose trunks have been braided together. Braided Artificial Bonsai trees can be ten to eighteen inches in height, and is said to bring good fortune by Feng shui practitioners.
Artificial Bonsai trees are usually very small with a height that varies from around two inches all the way up to three feet and the shape of Bonsai trees can be changed by wiring the branches and trunk of the tree. You can place your tree in a nice decorative container that matches your décor because they can live for literally years if you take good care of it.
Maintaining Bonsai isn’t difficult at all. You will need a decent set of tools such as root trimmers, shears, pliers, and branch cutters if necessary. If you are a first timer you can enlist the help of a skilled professional who is willing to teach you the art of training and maintaining Bonsai.
Your plant can be trimmed using bypass pruners and the roots should be trimmed to reduce the size. All Bonsai trees need appropriate amounts of fertilizers to grow nice and healthy. Be careful not to over water you Bonsai tree. Those who are new can begin with a common variety such as azalea, boxwood, hibiscus, camellia, or cotoneaster.
Beautiful Silk Flowers
Nothing is as refreshing as having a fresh bouquet of Silk flowers in your home to brighten up your mood. Not only do they add some class but they make you feel better. If you want to enjoy the benefits of having a variety of Silk flowers in your home everyday but can’t afford the costs or bear to cut that many of your beautiful flowers than you can always go with a range of plastic or Silk flowers. To add some scent you can apply some potpourri oil to the foam at the base of the vase and it will seem as though you are smelling fresh flowers.
To create your own personalized floral arrangement all you need is a pair of pliers to bend the wire, a pair of wire cutters to cut the stems, tape, wire, floral tape, and foam. Next select a wide container such as a basket, vase, or bowl. Go with a holder that matches the color of the room that you plan to place it in.
Select silk flowers that are proportionate to each other so that they will blend in nicely together. Silk flowers make the perfect decoration for any occasion. If you are looking to pick up the atmosphere in your home or you have an event that you would like to add extra flavor to, go with silk flowers.
The nice thing about silk flowers is that the beauty is everlasting. You don’t have to worry about your poor plant not getting enough water and dying in the sun. Silk flowers will never die, and the color will also stay true. They are also very convenient to use, as they don’t require as much attention as typical flowers do. You can leave them in a nice ceramic vase and they will be just fine for years to come.
To create your own personalized floral arrangement all you need is a pair of pliers to bend the wire, a pair of wire cutters to cut the stems, tape, wire, floral tape, and foam. Next select a wide container such as a basket, vase, or bowl. Go with a holder that matches the color of the room that you plan to place it in.
Select silk flowers that are proportionate to each other so that they will blend in nicely together. Silk flowers make the perfect decoration for any occasion. If you are looking to pick up the atmosphere in your home or you have an event that you would like to add extra flavor to, go with silk flowers.
The nice thing about silk flowers is that the beauty is everlasting. You don’t have to worry about your poor plant not getting enough water and dying in the sun. Silk flowers will never die, and the color will also stay true. They are also very convenient to use, as they don’t require as much attention as typical flowers do. You can leave them in a nice ceramic vase and they will be just fine for years to come.
Beat the Weeds and Save Time in the Garden
New gardeners are so often put off gardening at the thought that it has to involve hours and hours of hard work. The popular idea of a low-maintenance garden is one of covering the space with decking and gravel, planted with a few grasses and pots of evergreens.
However, I have discovered an ideal way to help thwart one of the most time-consuming chores in the garden - that of weeding.
This came about almost by accident, as I have a cat who thinks that any uncovered ground is a glorious litter tray! I quickly had to find a way to cover up as much of the soil as possible, but soon realised that ground cover plants gave me the even greater benefit of vastly reducing the number of weeds.
Of course, there are many gardeners who enjoy the time spent weeding, and I admire them tremendously - there are great physical and mental benefits to spending time outdoors among your plants.
But for those of us whose time spent in the garden must be limited because of work commitments or perhaps physical limitations, there is a way to enjoy our plants with a minimum of fuss. Of course, time has to be spent on the initial ground preparation and planting, however, this would probably take far less time than laying decking and gravel!
Weeds are great survivors and they very quickly take over any bare patch of soil. Once they take hold they can very easily smother existing plants and become notoriously difficult to get rid of.
So the idea is to find plants that form dense clumps or spread via their roots to cover the ground. As with most plants, there are ground cover plants for each season when they are at their best, and some that look good all year round.
One word of caution. Because some of these plants spread quickly - which is of course what we want - they also don't actually know when to stop! So you may need to cut them back occasionally to keep them within their allotted space.
What to plant?
I have discovered that plants such as bugle (ajuga) - you can get plants with purple, bronze or variegated foliage; euphorbia - with stunning acid-green flowers in early to late spring; lesser periwinkle (vinca minor); bergenias - commonly known as elephant's ears; as well as small-leaved variegated ivies, all provide year round ground cover. Another advantage of these particular plants is that they are also slug and snail resistant!
In spring and summer, you can use aubretia, arabis, alyssum and candytuft (iberis), which all hug the ground. And particularly useful, and providing some height to a border, is aquilegia - the old-fashioned cottage garden variety - which after flowering retains its foliage in attractive clumps. They also self-seed prolifically, giving you extra plants each year.
Another favourite plant of mine is the hardy geranium. Some varieties do die down in the winter - weeds don't grow much then anyway - but the plants soon romp away in spring and provide ground cover and masses of flowers all summer.
Other useful plants to use for ground cover are herbs. Among a wide variety to choose from are comfrey, feverfew, catmint, golden marjoram and mallow.
So there you have it! Once your ground cover plants are established, you'll no longer have to spend hours on your knees, but can spend quality time in your garden.
However, I have discovered an ideal way to help thwart one of the most time-consuming chores in the garden - that of weeding.
This came about almost by accident, as I have a cat who thinks that any uncovered ground is a glorious litter tray! I quickly had to find a way to cover up as much of the soil as possible, but soon realised that ground cover plants gave me the even greater benefit of vastly reducing the number of weeds.
Of course, there are many gardeners who enjoy the time spent weeding, and I admire them tremendously - there are great physical and mental benefits to spending time outdoors among your plants.
But for those of us whose time spent in the garden must be limited because of work commitments or perhaps physical limitations, there is a way to enjoy our plants with a minimum of fuss. Of course, time has to be spent on the initial ground preparation and planting, however, this would probably take far less time than laying decking and gravel!
Weeds are great survivors and they very quickly take over any bare patch of soil. Once they take hold they can very easily smother existing plants and become notoriously difficult to get rid of.
So the idea is to find plants that form dense clumps or spread via their roots to cover the ground. As with most plants, there are ground cover plants for each season when they are at their best, and some that look good all year round.
One word of caution. Because some of these plants spread quickly - which is of course what we want - they also don't actually know when to stop! So you may need to cut them back occasionally to keep them within their allotted space.
What to plant?
I have discovered that plants such as bugle (ajuga) - you can get plants with purple, bronze or variegated foliage; euphorbia - with stunning acid-green flowers in early to late spring; lesser periwinkle (vinca minor); bergenias - commonly known as elephant's ears; as well as small-leaved variegated ivies, all provide year round ground cover. Another advantage of these particular plants is that they are also slug and snail resistant!
In spring and summer, you can use aubretia, arabis, alyssum and candytuft (iberis), which all hug the ground. And particularly useful, and providing some height to a border, is aquilegia - the old-fashioned cottage garden variety - which after flowering retains its foliage in attractive clumps. They also self-seed prolifically, giving you extra plants each year.
Another favourite plant of mine is the hardy geranium. Some varieties do die down in the winter - weeds don't grow much then anyway - but the plants soon romp away in spring and provide ground cover and masses of flowers all summer.
Other useful plants to use for ground cover are herbs. Among a wide variety to choose from are comfrey, feverfew, catmint, golden marjoram and mallow.
So there you have it! Once your ground cover plants are established, you'll no longer have to spend hours on your knees, but can spend quality time in your garden.
Beginners Guide to Home Composting
Composting your kitchen and garden waste is a great way to reduce the amount of waste you dispose of in your rubbish bin. By composting your waste you can generate a free source of rich compost to help improve your garden, and also help to reduce global warming in the process.
How does home composting help to reduce global warming?
When sent to landfill organic waste is compressed under tons and tons of other waste types. The organic waste therefore does not have enough access to air, which restricts the waste from being able to decompose properly. Instead of decomposing, methane gas is produced which contributes to global warming.
The Compost Bin
The first step to start composting at home is to get a compost bin. You can either purchase a compost bin or you can make your own. Compost bins can be bought from the majority of garden centres. The government funded Recycle Now Home Composting Campaign also sells discounted compost bins.
The next important step is to decide where to position the compost bin, which can affect the overall quality of the compost that is produced. For best results place the bin in a well drained area which has good access to sunlight. The drainage will enable excess water to drain out of the compost and placing the bin in a sunny spot helps to speed up the composting process.
What waste items can I put in my compost bin?
There are lots of everyday waste items from your garden and kitchen that can go into your compost bin. These are broken down into ?Greens? and ?Browns?. Greens are the type of items that provide moisture and nitrogen and are quick to rot. Items classed as Greens includes:
Grass cuttings
Vegetable peelings
Leaves
Fruit
Tea bags
Weeds
Browns are waste items that take longer to rot but provide pockets of air, along with fibre and carbon. This includes items such as:
Cardboard boxes
Newspapers (scrunched up)
Toilet roll tubes
Egg shells (crushed)
Shredded paper
Twigs and hedge clippings
How do I make a good quality compost?
To make a good quality compost it is important to use a good mix of both 'green' and 'brown' wastes. It is simply a case of monitoring the compost and adding more waste depending on the look of the compost. For example, if it looks too dry add more ?green? waste, and if it looks too wet add more ?brown? waste. Every so often it is also a good idea to mix or turn the contents of your compost bin to add air.
How long will it take for my compost to be ready to use?
This will vary depending on the mixture of waste that is placed into the compost bin, the surrounding conditions and the weather. In general it should take between 6 and 9 months for your finished compost to be ready to use.
How does home composting help to reduce global warming?
When sent to landfill organic waste is compressed under tons and tons of other waste types. The organic waste therefore does not have enough access to air, which restricts the waste from being able to decompose properly. Instead of decomposing, methane gas is produced which contributes to global warming.
The Compost Bin
The first step to start composting at home is to get a compost bin. You can either purchase a compost bin or you can make your own. Compost bins can be bought from the majority of garden centres. The government funded Recycle Now Home Composting Campaign also sells discounted compost bins.
The next important step is to decide where to position the compost bin, which can affect the overall quality of the compost that is produced. For best results place the bin in a well drained area which has good access to sunlight. The drainage will enable excess water to drain out of the compost and placing the bin in a sunny spot helps to speed up the composting process.
What waste items can I put in my compost bin?
There are lots of everyday waste items from your garden and kitchen that can go into your compost bin. These are broken down into ?Greens? and ?Browns?. Greens are the type of items that provide moisture and nitrogen and are quick to rot. Items classed as Greens includes:
Grass cuttings
Vegetable peelings
Leaves
Fruit
Tea bags
Weeds
Browns are waste items that take longer to rot but provide pockets of air, along with fibre and carbon. This includes items such as:
Cardboard boxes
Newspapers (scrunched up)
Toilet roll tubes
Egg shells (crushed)
Shredded paper
Twigs and hedge clippings
How do I make a good quality compost?
To make a good quality compost it is important to use a good mix of both 'green' and 'brown' wastes. It is simply a case of monitoring the compost and adding more waste depending on the look of the compost. For example, if it looks too dry add more ?green? waste, and if it looks too wet add more ?brown? waste. Every so often it is also a good idea to mix or turn the contents of your compost bin to add air.
How long will it take for my compost to be ready to use?
This will vary depending on the mixture of waste that is placed into the compost bin, the surrounding conditions and the weather. In general it should take between 6 and 9 months for your finished compost to be ready to use.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
How to Open a Boutique
So what does this have to do with opening a boutique? Mostly it's about defining a destination. The first actual step in opening a boutique is desire. Many of us work a weekly job, full time in and full time out under the direction of someone else. For some people it's not a lifestyle they prefer, but one that pays the bills. Sooner or later many people hit on the idea that it would be great to run their own business, which would still provide financial security, but would give them the flexibility to live their lives to the fullest while still pulling in a paycheck, and even doing work that they love. With a strong market demand and fairly straight forward methods of operation boutique ownership appeals to many and creates that opportunity to get out of a dead end job and start doing something you love.
Once you've made the decision to start a boutique there are many initial questions that you may be asking yourself on how to begin. Taken all at once these questions can be overwhelming, enough so that many people return to their jobs and just dream about what they could have done instead of venturing onward. Instead of giving up take the time to sit down and write down your questions. This way you can decide which aspects are most important and focus on those first. These may be questions such as:
1. What kind of boutique do I want to run?
2. What will I sell and where will I get it?
3. Where will I locate my boutique?
4. How will I finance my boutique?
5. How will I get customers?
These five are some of the biggest questions and the ones that will be discussed here.
What kind of boutique?
This is one of the most important questions to answer as it will determine the answers or at least the right direction to look for answers for the other questions. In order for a boutique to be successful it needs to fill a niche in the community where it is being opened. This does not mean that it has to be the strangest idea that you can think of, but that you need to take a moment and look around the area where you are thinking of starting your boutique. What kinds of shops already exist there? What is missing? Your niche is in that space of what is missing where you will provide the best customer service and prices for what you choose to sell. For example there may be many clothing stores in your area, but nothing specifically for teenagers interested in reasonably priced hip hop clothing. This is a niche you can fill.
Once you determine your niche write it down on a piece of paper. This will be the start of your business plan.
What will I sell?
Having determined the niche you wish to fill it make take a little research to decide what inventory belongs in that niche. Check out websites and, if possible, talk to some of your potential customer base and see what items they are looking for. In our Hip Hop example some of the items might be the following:
Nike Air Jordan shoes
Fleece Hoodies
Military style jackets
Multi pocketed jeans
Multi finger rings
Head rags or bandanas
You may not choose to carry everything that goes on this initial list but it will give you an idea of what you are looking for.
Where do I get it?
There are many options for where you will acquire your inventory. You will need to research your local wholesalers and manufacturers to see what they carry that you can invest in. As well in most major cities there are markets that are designed to bring together manufacturers and small business owners. A little research will help you determine what cities near you have such markets and when they are open. Cities like Los Angeles may have consistently open markets while other cities may only have a specific weeklong show. Get on the lists for these shows and attend. While you are at the show take your time to make sure you've looked over all the possibilities at that show before you put in orders and begin to acquire your beginning inventory. Think about colors and cuts that you want and order in appropriate quantities. Most manufacturers will require that you buy at least four pieces in any given style per color. Do not buy more than this as it will be too much for an opening shop and keep your options simple the first time out. You want to have a full boutique, but not break the bank on your first shopping trip.
Where to put your boutique?
When deciding where to locate your boutique you will want to consider several things. First of all you will need to decide if you want your boutique in a mall or a shopping center. A mall guarantees a certain amount of traffic because of the location, but also requires that you work within the rules of the mall including hours of operation, pricing and possibly shop design. A shopping center gives you more flexibility but requires more work in advertising to drive business to your store. If you want to be in a mall you will need to contact the mall in question and get from them leasing information and mall requirements. The same is true in the case of a shopping center, but you will be inquiring of the Landlord for lease information. It takes approximately 30-90 days to prepare a shop for opening so you will want to negotiate for at least 30 days of
Once you've made the decision to start a boutique there are many initial questions that you may be asking yourself on how to begin. Taken all at once these questions can be overwhelming, enough so that many people return to their jobs and just dream about what they could have done instead of venturing onward. Instead of giving up take the time to sit down and write down your questions. This way you can decide which aspects are most important and focus on those first. These may be questions such as:
1. What kind of boutique do I want to run?
2. What will I sell and where will I get it?
3. Where will I locate my boutique?
4. How will I finance my boutique?
5. How will I get customers?
These five are some of the biggest questions and the ones that will be discussed here.
What kind of boutique?
This is one of the most important questions to answer as it will determine the answers or at least the right direction to look for answers for the other questions. In order for a boutique to be successful it needs to fill a niche in the community where it is being opened. This does not mean that it has to be the strangest idea that you can think of, but that you need to take a moment and look around the area where you are thinking of starting your boutique. What kinds of shops already exist there? What is missing? Your niche is in that space of what is missing where you will provide the best customer service and prices for what you choose to sell. For example there may be many clothing stores in your area, but nothing specifically for teenagers interested in reasonably priced hip hop clothing. This is a niche you can fill.
Once you determine your niche write it down on a piece of paper. This will be the start of your business plan.
What will I sell?
Having determined the niche you wish to fill it make take a little research to decide what inventory belongs in that niche. Check out websites and, if possible, talk to some of your potential customer base and see what items they are looking for. In our Hip Hop example some of the items might be the following:
Nike Air Jordan shoes
Fleece Hoodies
Military style jackets
Multi pocketed jeans
Multi finger rings
Head rags or bandanas
You may not choose to carry everything that goes on this initial list but it will give you an idea of what you are looking for.
Where do I get it?
There are many options for where you will acquire your inventory. You will need to research your local wholesalers and manufacturers to see what they carry that you can invest in. As well in most major cities there are markets that are designed to bring together manufacturers and small business owners. A little research will help you determine what cities near you have such markets and when they are open. Cities like Los Angeles may have consistently open markets while other cities may only have a specific weeklong show. Get on the lists for these shows and attend. While you are at the show take your time to make sure you've looked over all the possibilities at that show before you put in orders and begin to acquire your beginning inventory. Think about colors and cuts that you want and order in appropriate quantities. Most manufacturers will require that you buy at least four pieces in any given style per color. Do not buy more than this as it will be too much for an opening shop and keep your options simple the first time out. You want to have a full boutique, but not break the bank on your first shopping trip.
Where to put your boutique?
When deciding where to locate your boutique you will want to consider several things. First of all you will need to decide if you want your boutique in a mall or a shopping center. A mall guarantees a certain amount of traffic because of the location, but also requires that you work within the rules of the mall including hours of operation, pricing and possibly shop design. A shopping center gives you more flexibility but requires more work in advertising to drive business to your store. If you want to be in a mall you will need to contact the mall in question and get from them leasing information and mall requirements. The same is true in the case of a shopping center, but you will be inquiring of the Landlord for lease information. It takes approximately 30-90 days to prepare a shop for opening so you will want to negotiate for at least 30 days of
How to Find Precious Flower Girl Dresses for Your Wedding
Preparing for your wedding is often an exhilarating task. You must decide on what type of flowers to use, wedding colors for the bridesmaids and ushers, and refreshments for the reception. You want everything to be perfect for that special day. But one detail that often gets put on the back burner is selecting a flower girl dress. Flower girl dresses are precious, frilly dresses worn by a little girl (usually between 3 and 8 years old) as she scatters flower petals down the aisle.
The flower girl is usually of some relation to the bride or groom, either a little sister, cousin, or niece. She gets all dressed up - like the grown-ups - and participates in the introduction to the bride using a basket full of flower petals. The key to finding a lovely flower girl dress is to consider the flower girl's size and height, hair color, and also the actual wedding colors.
A Mini Bride's Dress
Flower girl dresses are often miniature replicas of the bride's wedding dress. A flower girl dress may also be a white dress with a sash that matches the colors of the bridesmaids' dresses. Of course, it doesn't have to be an exact match. The materials can be matched along with the decorative and design aspects of your wedding dress. For example, if your wedding dress has lace and white beads, find a flower girl dress that has the same. If your wedding dress comes with a bolero jacket, make sure the flower girl dress has a similar jacket. You can also closely match the sleeves, neckline, and style of the dress.
Colorful Flower Girl Dresses
Flower girl dresses can also be colorful to match the wedding colors. The key is to match the flower girl dress with the bridesmaids' dresses and the flower petal colors, though the match doesn't have to be exact. The flower girl dress may complement the other colors and look just as beautiful. If the wedding colors are lavender and white, for example, you might dress the flower girl in a lavender and white dress with lavender and white flower petals mixed in the basket. Or, use a lavender dress with a white basket and lavender flower petals. There are many combinations to choose from to create a lovely, captivating moment.
Consider the Flower Girl
Don't get caught up in the moment and forget to consider who will be wearing the flower girl dress. Consider the little girl's likes and how she feels about fancy dresses. You'll want her to be comfortable and happy as she walks down the aisle, not frowning and complaining. The dress should complement her height and hair color. Also, have the dress sized for comfort and flexibility. It should be flexible and free flowing to make walking down the aisle as easy as possible. It should also be easy to move around in - for those emergency moments!
Where to Buy Flower Girl Dresses
You can have flower girl dresses custom made or buy them from the same shop where you'll buy your wedding dress. You can even buy flower girl dresses online. On the Web, there are flower girl dress shops, children's boutiques, and online stores for kids' special occasion clothing. These offer a variety of styles and sizes to fit your needs and budget. They also usually sell other specialty items such as boys' suits, girls' communion dresses, or christening dresses.
Having just the right flower girl dress will bring plenty of "ahs" and "oohs" at your wedding. Use these ideas to create precious memories on your special day!
The flower girl is usually of some relation to the bride or groom, either a little sister, cousin, or niece. She gets all dressed up - like the grown-ups - and participates in the introduction to the bride using a basket full of flower petals. The key to finding a lovely flower girl dress is to consider the flower girl's size and height, hair color, and also the actual wedding colors.
A Mini Bride's Dress
Flower girl dresses are often miniature replicas of the bride's wedding dress. A flower girl dress may also be a white dress with a sash that matches the colors of the bridesmaids' dresses. Of course, it doesn't have to be an exact match. The materials can be matched along with the decorative and design aspects of your wedding dress. For example, if your wedding dress has lace and white beads, find a flower girl dress that has the same. If your wedding dress comes with a bolero jacket, make sure the flower girl dress has a similar jacket. You can also closely match the sleeves, neckline, and style of the dress.
Colorful Flower Girl Dresses
Flower girl dresses can also be colorful to match the wedding colors. The key is to match the flower girl dress with the bridesmaids' dresses and the flower petal colors, though the match doesn't have to be exact. The flower girl dress may complement the other colors and look just as beautiful. If the wedding colors are lavender and white, for example, you might dress the flower girl in a lavender and white dress with lavender and white flower petals mixed in the basket. Or, use a lavender dress with a white basket and lavender flower petals. There are many combinations to choose from to create a lovely, captivating moment.
Consider the Flower Girl
Don't get caught up in the moment and forget to consider who will be wearing the flower girl dress. Consider the little girl's likes and how she feels about fancy dresses. You'll want her to be comfortable and happy as she walks down the aisle, not frowning and complaining. The dress should complement her height and hair color. Also, have the dress sized for comfort and flexibility. It should be flexible and free flowing to make walking down the aisle as easy as possible. It should also be easy to move around in - for those emergency moments!
Where to Buy Flower Girl Dresses
You can have flower girl dresses custom made or buy them from the same shop where you'll buy your wedding dress. You can even buy flower girl dresses online. On the Web, there are flower girl dress shops, children's boutiques, and online stores for kids' special occasion clothing. These offer a variety of styles and sizes to fit your needs and budget. They also usually sell other specialty items such as boys' suits, girls' communion dresses, or christening dresses.
Having just the right flower girl dress will bring plenty of "ahs" and "oohs" at your wedding. Use these ideas to create precious memories on your special day!
How To Clean A Tie
Did you ever get a blob of white sauce fall on smack in the middle of your black silk tie? Mustard parted ways with your hotdog to land on the most visible part of your favorite maroon tie? Of course white goes well with black and yellow with red, but it’s an unwanted decoration on your tie. All you need to do is follow simple cleaning tricks to ensure that you always have a clean tie to wear, without buying a new tie every time.
The tie can be sent for dry cleaning for professional help. Silk ties pose more of a problem as dry cleaning them tends to rob them off the color and sheen. Dry cleaning removes most stains but can sometimes worsen them too, or cause the tie to lose some of it's original color all over or in the stained area. Make sure that you inform the dry cleaner about the origin of the stain so it can be treated with specific stain removers.
If the tie is of lesser value than the dry cleaning and you wish to keep the tie, you can try these stain removal tips. These methods work most of the time but not with every stain.
To remove a stain, never rub it. Gently dab it with a clean towel, napkin or cloth. Rubbing will spread the stain.
Do not wash the silk tie with water to remove the stain, the original stain will go but you will wind up with a larger water stain.
If it is a butter or grease stain, liberally sprinkle talcum powder on the stain and leave overnight. The powder will absorb the grease and you can then brush it with a clean towel or cloth. A heavily stained tie may require you to repeat the above steps more than once.
If your silk tie has had an accident with a sauce, ink, juice, coffee, etc., then blot the stain immediately with a clean towel or napkin. Do not scrub as it will spread the stain. Later, purchase a good stain remover which is specific for the reason of the stain. Test the remover on the back part of the tie before using it on the stain. Follow the instructions on the stain remover. This will remove many stains.
For more difficult stains, you will need to first use a mild stain remover to pretreat the stain. Work the remover into the fabric, by delicately rubbing it on the stain for a minute or so. Prepare a cool water bath with a mild detergent and gently move the tie in this solution for about 5 minutes. Completely rinse out the detergent with cool water. Do not wring the tie.
Now prepare another solution with white vinegar (1/4 cup) and cool water (3-5 gallons). Give the tie a final rinse in this vinegar solution. Do not wring out the tie. The fabric may even show a puckering. Flatten a clean dry towel and lay the tie without stretching on the towel. Now, loosely roll up the towel. Leave it rolled up for 12-24 hours. Now roll up the tie in another dry towel. Unroll after one day and you will get a clean, shiny, and well-shaped tie.
These are not guaranteed stain removal methods, but they are worth a try when it's a choice between cleaning the stain and buying a new tie.
The tie can be sent for dry cleaning for professional help. Silk ties pose more of a problem as dry cleaning them tends to rob them off the color and sheen. Dry cleaning removes most stains but can sometimes worsen them too, or cause the tie to lose some of it's original color all over or in the stained area. Make sure that you inform the dry cleaner about the origin of the stain so it can be treated with specific stain removers.
If the tie is of lesser value than the dry cleaning and you wish to keep the tie, you can try these stain removal tips. These methods work most of the time but not with every stain.
To remove a stain, never rub it. Gently dab it with a clean towel, napkin or cloth. Rubbing will spread the stain.
Do not wash the silk tie with water to remove the stain, the original stain will go but you will wind up with a larger water stain.
If it is a butter or grease stain, liberally sprinkle talcum powder on the stain and leave overnight. The powder will absorb the grease and you can then brush it with a clean towel or cloth. A heavily stained tie may require you to repeat the above steps more than once.
If your silk tie has had an accident with a sauce, ink, juice, coffee, etc., then blot the stain immediately with a clean towel or napkin. Do not scrub as it will spread the stain. Later, purchase a good stain remover which is specific for the reason of the stain. Test the remover on the back part of the tie before using it on the stain. Follow the instructions on the stain remover. This will remove many stains.
For more difficult stains, you will need to first use a mild stain remover to pretreat the stain. Work the remover into the fabric, by delicately rubbing it on the stain for a minute or so. Prepare a cool water bath with a mild detergent and gently move the tie in this solution for about 5 minutes. Completely rinse out the detergent with cool water. Do not wring the tie.
Now prepare another solution with white vinegar (1/4 cup) and cool water (3-5 gallons). Give the tie a final rinse in this vinegar solution. Do not wring out the tie. The fabric may even show a puckering. Flatten a clean dry towel and lay the tie without stretching on the towel. Now, loosely roll up the towel. Leave it rolled up for 12-24 hours. Now roll up the tie in another dry towel. Unroll after one day and you will get a clean, shiny, and well-shaped tie.
These are not guaranteed stain removal methods, but they are worth a try when it's a choice between cleaning the stain and buying a new tie.
Styles of Thigh High Boots
By Flemming Andersen
A new and fabulous trend of today’s fashion world is the thigh high boots. These fun and creative boots will give women the freedom to dress with an edge and give off a hot vibe. You can wear these awesome boots with just about anything and they are not made for just one kind of person. Anyone can take on a pair of these boots and feel wild in them.
Thigh high boots are starting to hit all of the hottest stores. In most areas, you can find a pair in your shopping mall or major department stores.
While these boots are defiantly not made for walking, they are made to make any man fall to his knees with infatuation. These boots will give any woman the ability to make a man do anything that she wants for him. A woman that wears these boots will have power like she has never had before.
If you are in an area that does not support the thigh high boot fashion yet, there is still hope for you. You will be able to get a great pair of these boots online or buy catalog. You do not have to go without these hot and creative boots just because your local mall has not caught up to the fashion times. You will find all kinds of great stores online that carry these wonderful creations.
When you go online to find the pair of thigh high boots for you, there will be an abundance of styles. There are all different kinds of colors, lengths, heel styles and so much more. You will find that choosing just one is going to be the hardest part of the deal. You will see that there is so many that would fit your lifestyle. You can feel free to browse and pick, as you like.
Thigh high boots will have different heel heights, and styles. You can choose the one that is most comfortable to you. There will be stiletto heels that will turn you into a goddess when you wear them, or you will find the safer styles with the thicker and chunkier heel. They will be a lot better for the women that want to wear their thigh high boots for more occasions that are conservative.
These thigh high boots are also found in many materials as well. There is the all leather made ones, fabric ones, even the ones that look like shinny plastic. You will be able to choose the material that is most comfortable both to your body and to your personality.
Putting on a pair of thigh high boots will give you the sensation that you have been looking for. A pair of boots like this will put you right into the lead in fashion when you put them on. You will feel safe, sexy and confident every time you glide your foot in and pull up that zipper.
A new and fabulous trend of today’s fashion world is the thigh high boots. These fun and creative boots will give women the freedom to dress with an edge and give off a hot vibe. You can wear these awesome boots with just about anything and they are not made for just one kind of person. Anyone can take on a pair of these boots and feel wild in them.
Thigh high boots are starting to hit all of the hottest stores. In most areas, you can find a pair in your shopping mall or major department stores.
While these boots are defiantly not made for walking, they are made to make any man fall to his knees with infatuation. These boots will give any woman the ability to make a man do anything that she wants for him. A woman that wears these boots will have power like she has never had before.
If you are in an area that does not support the thigh high boot fashion yet, there is still hope for you. You will be able to get a great pair of these boots online or buy catalog. You do not have to go without these hot and creative boots just because your local mall has not caught up to the fashion times. You will find all kinds of great stores online that carry these wonderful creations.
When you go online to find the pair of thigh high boots for you, there will be an abundance of styles. There are all different kinds of colors, lengths, heel styles and so much more. You will find that choosing just one is going to be the hardest part of the deal. You will see that there is so many that would fit your lifestyle. You can feel free to browse and pick, as you like.
Thigh high boots will have different heel heights, and styles. You can choose the one that is most comfortable to you. There will be stiletto heels that will turn you into a goddess when you wear them, or you will find the safer styles with the thicker and chunkier heel. They will be a lot better for the women that want to wear their thigh high boots for more occasions that are conservative.
These thigh high boots are also found in many materials as well. There is the all leather made ones, fabric ones, even the ones that look like shinny plastic. You will be able to choose the material that is most comfortable both to your body and to your personality.
Putting on a pair of thigh high boots will give you the sensation that you have been looking for. A pair of boots like this will put you right into the lead in fashion when you put them on. You will feel safe, sexy and confident every time you glide your foot in and pull up that zipper.
Tips on Finding Special Sized Shoes
Whether you have wide or narrow feet, you know that finding special sized shoes is difficult. The most difficult type of special shoe to find is one for a wide or large foot. Having large feet does not have to mean you should pay high prices to have custom made shoes. There are a large number of online shoe stores that concentrate on large men and women’s shoes almost exclusively. In addition, a great many of those sites offer the shoes at reasonable prices and are what you might expect to find at a regular shoe store. Both men and women have a hard time finding shoes when they are relegated to hard to find large sizes. There are ways though; that you can get the specialized shoe that will work best for you.
For women, the quest for large shoes can end up with the purchase of large sized men’s shoes just for the sake of comfort. The problem is that when the occasion calls for something beyond casual or athletic wear. If a woman should need to wear a shoe that goes with more formal attire, then she will not have anything that works with her clothes. Wearing men’s shoes may be an easy solution, but it will not serve you well if you are in need of formal women’s shoes.
If you are a woman who wants good looking shoes for all occasions, then try checking out strapless shoes and sandals. These shoes are available in large sizes, but will not cost a lot of money. If you are a man, you may also need large shoes for every occasion whether it is athletics, formal wear, or even slippers. For men, if you contact manufacturers online or via the mail, you will find that many actually do offer the shoe sizes you need. It is just a matter of ordering them, and they are often much less expensive than you may think.
One thing to keep in mind when you order special sized shoes online, whether you are a man or a woman, is that most stores do not stock large amounts as a general rule. Instead, it may happen that you will find larger shoes on backorder. This most often happens when the style is popular or trendy. If you do end up with a backordered pair of special sized shoes, then the website will usually let you know how long you will have to wait.
When it comes to women’s special sized shoes, there are other things to consider, as well. The same size in each style may not fit you every time. For instance, when it comes to wide shoes it is possible that a large shoe with elastic will help you just as much as a specially ordered shoe. If the shoe has narrow toes or a high heel you will likely need to order something a little larger than you are used to. The idea is to make sure you know what is going to be best for your feet with regard to the type of design.
Keep in mind that if you do have very large or very small feet, that it is no reflection on you as a person. It is easy to complain about your shoe size or to be embarrassed about having to buy specialized shoes, but there is nothing you can do. Instead, concentrate on getting yourself shoes that fit properly so that you can walk in comfort. In addition, shoes that fit your feet correctly will actually help them look normal in size. If you take care of your feet, they will take care of you.
If you have feet that are either too big or too small, you may feel a little embarrassed in addition to having trouble finding the right shoes. You may have been told or feel like you should have to pay a lot more then you would for regular shoes. The truth is that some places may actually do that by telling you that custom shoes are more expensive. However, if you search online you will find a shoe that fits you and is at a price you can afford. Whether you are a man or a woman, you just need to make sure you are getting a shoe that fits you well so that it is not only comfortable, but also healthy for you and your feet.
For women, the quest for large shoes can end up with the purchase of large sized men’s shoes just for the sake of comfort. The problem is that when the occasion calls for something beyond casual or athletic wear. If a woman should need to wear a shoe that goes with more formal attire, then she will not have anything that works with her clothes. Wearing men’s shoes may be an easy solution, but it will not serve you well if you are in need of formal women’s shoes.
If you are a woman who wants good looking shoes for all occasions, then try checking out strapless shoes and sandals. These shoes are available in large sizes, but will not cost a lot of money. If you are a man, you may also need large shoes for every occasion whether it is athletics, formal wear, or even slippers. For men, if you contact manufacturers online or via the mail, you will find that many actually do offer the shoe sizes you need. It is just a matter of ordering them, and they are often much less expensive than you may think.
One thing to keep in mind when you order special sized shoes online, whether you are a man or a woman, is that most stores do not stock large amounts as a general rule. Instead, it may happen that you will find larger shoes on backorder. This most often happens when the style is popular or trendy. If you do end up with a backordered pair of special sized shoes, then the website will usually let you know how long you will have to wait.
When it comes to women’s special sized shoes, there are other things to consider, as well. The same size in each style may not fit you every time. For instance, when it comes to wide shoes it is possible that a large shoe with elastic will help you just as much as a specially ordered shoe. If the shoe has narrow toes or a high heel you will likely need to order something a little larger than you are used to. The idea is to make sure you know what is going to be best for your feet with regard to the type of design.
Keep in mind that if you do have very large or very small feet, that it is no reflection on you as a person. It is easy to complain about your shoe size or to be embarrassed about having to buy specialized shoes, but there is nothing you can do. Instead, concentrate on getting yourself shoes that fit properly so that you can walk in comfort. In addition, shoes that fit your feet correctly will actually help them look normal in size. If you take care of your feet, they will take care of you.
If you have feet that are either too big or too small, you may feel a little embarrassed in addition to having trouble finding the right shoes. You may have been told or feel like you should have to pay a lot more then you would for regular shoes. The truth is that some places may actually do that by telling you that custom shoes are more expensive. However, if you search online you will find a shoe that fits you and is at a price you can afford. Whether you are a man or a woman, you just need to make sure you are getting a shoe that fits you well so that it is not only comfortable, but also healthy for you and your feet.
Themed Wedding Shoes
Tradition tells us that wedding shoes should be white, feminine, and simply beautiful. But times are changing, and with that, the trends on bridal shoes. A bride's wedding shoes are not limited to stilettos, mules, pumps, and kitten heels in ivory and satin. Today, the added flexibility of themed weddings allows brides to express themselves with the footwear of their choice.
The fairy tale theme is probably the most popular for brides who want to be different but remain on the safe side. Since most brides are treated like royalties on their wedding days, the fairy tale theme is highly appropriate. Fairy tale brides can play with their dress and shoes more than the classic, traditional bride. Common choices of fairy tale brides include ball gowns and princess dresses with matching tiaras. Wedding shoes are, by far, trickier. Stilettos are not appropriate since they look too modern for princesses, and ditto with sandals. A shoe suggestion for this theme would be dainty lace-up boots in a complementary color to the wedding dress. These will look fabulous with full skirts and sleeved dresses.
Outdoor garden weddings are also popular. Gardens with summer themes allow for dresses with airy fabrics and materials. To complement the "airiness" of the bridal dress, shoes should be airy and lightweight like sandals. As too pointy heels can sink in the ground, flat or platform sandals are best. Jeweled slippers with beads and embellishments are also good choices. This way, the bride does not have to worry about sinking or balancing in uneven grounds. Wedding shoes for outdoor wedding should be comfortable and relaxed to complement the relaxed and summery setting.
More adventurous brides prefer beach weddings. Beaches are usually chosen as venues if there are sentimental moments between the couple that happened in the beach like the first kiss or engagement. These are moments of surprise and the whole bridal ensemble should echo the excitement of those moments. Since the usual dresses for beach weddings show a lot of skin (think tube, haltered, short dresses), the wedding shoes should follow. Strapped heels are out because of the sand and this makes for an opportunity to use funky flip-flops and flat thong sandals. Embellished flip-flops and thong sandals with sparkly rhinestone details complement the beach vibe.
Recently, travel-themed and ethnic weddings are getting popular with jetsetter couples. Popular inspirations are Japanese, Arabian, and African cultures. Wedding dresses and the decors of the venue evoke images from the theme. A geisha-inspired dress merits wooden platforms as wedding shoes as much as a Princess Jasmine-inspired outfit matches satin slippers.
The gradual flexibility of wedding traditions allows for more personal and intimate weddings. There is no reason why brides should restrain their individual styles. Wedding shoes provide opportunities for little surprises and brides are welcome to take them. A wedding is, first and foremost, the bride's day. She can proclaim her Keds as her wedding shoes and no one is allowed to object.
The fairy tale theme is probably the most popular for brides who want to be different but remain on the safe side. Since most brides are treated like royalties on their wedding days, the fairy tale theme is highly appropriate. Fairy tale brides can play with their dress and shoes more than the classic, traditional bride. Common choices of fairy tale brides include ball gowns and princess dresses with matching tiaras. Wedding shoes are, by far, trickier. Stilettos are not appropriate since they look too modern for princesses, and ditto with sandals. A shoe suggestion for this theme would be dainty lace-up boots in a complementary color to the wedding dress. These will look fabulous with full skirts and sleeved dresses.
Outdoor garden weddings are also popular. Gardens with summer themes allow for dresses with airy fabrics and materials. To complement the "airiness" of the bridal dress, shoes should be airy and lightweight like sandals. As too pointy heels can sink in the ground, flat or platform sandals are best. Jeweled slippers with beads and embellishments are also good choices. This way, the bride does not have to worry about sinking or balancing in uneven grounds. Wedding shoes for outdoor wedding should be comfortable and relaxed to complement the relaxed and summery setting.
More adventurous brides prefer beach weddings. Beaches are usually chosen as venues if there are sentimental moments between the couple that happened in the beach like the first kiss or engagement. These are moments of surprise and the whole bridal ensemble should echo the excitement of those moments. Since the usual dresses for beach weddings show a lot of skin (think tube, haltered, short dresses), the wedding shoes should follow. Strapped heels are out because of the sand and this makes for an opportunity to use funky flip-flops and flat thong sandals. Embellished flip-flops and thong sandals with sparkly rhinestone details complement the beach vibe.
Recently, travel-themed and ethnic weddings are getting popular with jetsetter couples. Popular inspirations are Japanese, Arabian, and African cultures. Wedding dresses and the decors of the venue evoke images from the theme. A geisha-inspired dress merits wooden platforms as wedding shoes as much as a Princess Jasmine-inspired outfit matches satin slippers.
The gradual flexibility of wedding traditions allows for more personal and intimate weddings. There is no reason why brides should restrain their individual styles. Wedding shoes provide opportunities for little surprises and brides are welcome to take them. A wedding is, first and foremost, the bride's day. She can proclaim her Keds as her wedding shoes and no one is allowed to object.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Choosing A Garden Fence
Garden fencing can serve many purposes, but one of the best is to accent and define areas of your garden. Whether you choose a six or twelve inch high border edging, or stand a section of post and rail garden fencing in the center of a sweep of lawn, garden fencing can add a beautiful accent to your landscaping.
Wood lattice makes attractive garden fencing that affords some privacy while allowing glimpses of the garden. Lattice boards set into a wooden privacy fence add a whole new design dimension to the frontage of your garden. A single width of lattice fencing can provide a screen or windbreak, and support for any climbing vines.
Set a lattice panel at the edge of the garden nearest the house and train morning glories to climb it to provide a scenery wall outside a kitchen or bedroom window, or create a simple arbor with two full height lattice panels set six to eight feet apart. Use thick garden twine to create a 'bridge' for vines to climb across and form a living 'roof'.
Border edging is another extremely versatile garden fencing option. Think outside the perimeter. You can use wire garden fencing to create smaller accents within a garden plot, or outline one corner or end of a garden with cast iron border edging.
Cedar shakes or redwood blocks can be used to create curved borders for slightly raised garden beds, or serve as a backdrop over which to spill indigo lobelia or white alyssum. Create a zigzag border of decorative low picket garden fencing and plant zinnias or marigolds in the V-shaped 'teeth' for a unique look.
Garden fencing can be used to create a beautiful background for patio dining. Choose a metal trellis and install it just off the patio edge behind the table and dining set. Twine climbing roses up over it to create an accent that defines the edge of the patio and creates an elegant, tasteful accent to your patio and garden at the same time.
Wrought-iron or cast-iron fences tend to be ornate, which suits more formal, historic houses, such as Victorians, or high-end urban homes. Today, similar styles are available in powder-coated steel, anodized aluminum or composite materials that are much more affordable and easier to maintain.
Stone fences, which are the oldest known type of fencing, make great garden walls or boundary markers around traditional homes, such as Colonials and Cape Cods, when built with native stone. Dry-stacked walls stay together with the help of gravity and friction.
The picket fence, a low, decorative style used to define property rather than secure it, is a universally popular style flexible enough to work with almost any home. There are many variations on the picket fence, including the Federal style, which features scalloped pickets and decorative finials.
Wood lattice makes attractive garden fencing that affords some privacy while allowing glimpses of the garden. Lattice boards set into a wooden privacy fence add a whole new design dimension to the frontage of your garden. A single width of lattice fencing can provide a screen or windbreak, and support for any climbing vines.
Set a lattice panel at the edge of the garden nearest the house and train morning glories to climb it to provide a scenery wall outside a kitchen or bedroom window, or create a simple arbor with two full height lattice panels set six to eight feet apart. Use thick garden twine to create a 'bridge' for vines to climb across and form a living 'roof'.
Border edging is another extremely versatile garden fencing option. Think outside the perimeter. You can use wire garden fencing to create smaller accents within a garden plot, or outline one corner or end of a garden with cast iron border edging.
Cedar shakes or redwood blocks can be used to create curved borders for slightly raised garden beds, or serve as a backdrop over which to spill indigo lobelia or white alyssum. Create a zigzag border of decorative low picket garden fencing and plant zinnias or marigolds in the V-shaped 'teeth' for a unique look.
Garden fencing can be used to create a beautiful background for patio dining. Choose a metal trellis and install it just off the patio edge behind the table and dining set. Twine climbing roses up over it to create an accent that defines the edge of the patio and creates an elegant, tasteful accent to your patio and garden at the same time.
Wrought-iron or cast-iron fences tend to be ornate, which suits more formal, historic houses, such as Victorians, or high-end urban homes. Today, similar styles are available in powder-coated steel, anodized aluminum or composite materials that are much more affordable and easier to maintain.
Stone fences, which are the oldest known type of fencing, make great garden walls or boundary markers around traditional homes, such as Colonials and Cape Cods, when built with native stone. Dry-stacked walls stay together with the help of gravity and friction.
The picket fence, a low, decorative style used to define property rather than secure it, is a universally popular style flexible enough to work with almost any home. There are many variations on the picket fence, including the Federal style, which features scalloped pickets and decorative finials.
Gift Giving Ideas For The Family On A Tight Budget
Sometimes it is just so hard to find those perfect gifts for the ones that we love. Often, the gift that we find that initially seems great, tends to lose a bit of its luster once we spy the price tag and determine that it is definitely not within our price range. Isn't that the most disappointing aspect of gift giving - knowing the gift you actually give was actually your second or third choice? Yes, but it is not the end of the world.
There are many gift giving ideas that can be completed on a dime once you determine that there are items to give a loved one that you can make yourself! The wealth of craft supplies that are available to us now is enormous, and should be utilized to create innovative gifts for our friends and family members that they can appreciate and enjoy for many years to come.
Many discount craft supply stores are a great inspiration for the various gifts that we can create with our own hands and design with love for our closest family and friends. Most of these stores are well-stocked with craft supplies to meet many different demands and budgets. Furthermore, the staff members at these places tend to be very knowledgeable in the craft area and will provide much needed help and ideas when we may get stuck.
Then the problem lies in what kinds of gifts you would like to give. By using your own craft supplies and getting the help of the discount craft supply stores, a gift giving decision will be easy! You can make something unique and original for everyone, depending upon one's individual likes and dislikes, and you can accomplish all of this without breaking the bank.
Of course there are countless craft ideas and projects that can be completed at home. One of the most popular ones that is the rage all over the country is the craft of making homemade jewelry. Almost every female friend or family member will love a necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings, jewelry that is designed by you with attention and care. When you are making the jewelry pieces yourself, it is a great idea to use the many discount craft supplies that you will have available. One of the best things about making jewelry yourself is that it can be created to fit within any budget. Also, it is a special touch to receive a gift that really reflects the taste of the individual, and she can wear her piece proudly and brag that it was made especially for her by a local artisan!
Another great gift idea that requires very few craft supplies is to make a basket of goodies for someone. This dynamic at home business has been a proven success for numerous entrepreneurs, and it is sure to please the friend or family member who receives this gift from you. You can make the most of the many discount craft supplies to decorate and design your basket, and then fill it with all sorts of goodies that will treat your recipient and make her feel loved. Fill the one-of-a-kind basket with homemade baked goods such as cookies and breads, even jams and jellies. Some are even getting innovative and making their own soaps and candles for these baskets! Not only are you creating the basket but you are cooking and creating, giving your very best recipes and finished products to those whom you love the most. Anyone will be pleased to receive a gift such as this!
Other gift ideas which you can make inexpensively and include the use of different craft supplies are original paintings, floral arrangements, and even monogrammed objects such as purses or clothing items. All of these require the use of numerous discount craft supplies but none that will leave you high and dry when it comes to the amount of money that you spend. Everyone loves original artwork from those who are truly gifted in this area, and the monogramming trend is sure to be a hit with your family and friends if you can work your sewing machine and help it create this magic. No matter which craft area you choose to develop, know that your friends and family will appreciate your work and effort and are sure to display your work deliberately and with pride.
We all love to be the most creative gift giver, so this year, why not take something that you already do well and turn this into an original gift that will make another person happy? Take advantage of the many discount craft supplies that are available to you and make the most of your talents. Take the time to design a gift idea that truly shows a loved one that you care, and she is sure to wear and display it proudly for many years to come!
There are many gift giving ideas that can be completed on a dime once you determine that there are items to give a loved one that you can make yourself! The wealth of craft supplies that are available to us now is enormous, and should be utilized to create innovative gifts for our friends and family members that they can appreciate and enjoy for many years to come.
Many discount craft supply stores are a great inspiration for the various gifts that we can create with our own hands and design with love for our closest family and friends. Most of these stores are well-stocked with craft supplies to meet many different demands and budgets. Furthermore, the staff members at these places tend to be very knowledgeable in the craft area and will provide much needed help and ideas when we may get stuck.
Then the problem lies in what kinds of gifts you would like to give. By using your own craft supplies and getting the help of the discount craft supply stores, a gift giving decision will be easy! You can make something unique and original for everyone, depending upon one's individual likes and dislikes, and you can accomplish all of this without breaking the bank.
Of course there are countless craft ideas and projects that can be completed at home. One of the most popular ones that is the rage all over the country is the craft of making homemade jewelry. Almost every female friend or family member will love a necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings, jewelry that is designed by you with attention and care. When you are making the jewelry pieces yourself, it is a great idea to use the many discount craft supplies that you will have available. One of the best things about making jewelry yourself is that it can be created to fit within any budget. Also, it is a special touch to receive a gift that really reflects the taste of the individual, and she can wear her piece proudly and brag that it was made especially for her by a local artisan!
Another great gift idea that requires very few craft supplies is to make a basket of goodies for someone. This dynamic at home business has been a proven success for numerous entrepreneurs, and it is sure to please the friend or family member who receives this gift from you. You can make the most of the many discount craft supplies to decorate and design your basket, and then fill it with all sorts of goodies that will treat your recipient and make her feel loved. Fill the one-of-a-kind basket with homemade baked goods such as cookies and breads, even jams and jellies. Some are even getting innovative and making their own soaps and candles for these baskets! Not only are you creating the basket but you are cooking and creating, giving your very best recipes and finished products to those whom you love the most. Anyone will be pleased to receive a gift such as this!
Other gift ideas which you can make inexpensively and include the use of different craft supplies are original paintings, floral arrangements, and even monogrammed objects such as purses or clothing items. All of these require the use of numerous discount craft supplies but none that will leave you high and dry when it comes to the amount of money that you spend. Everyone loves original artwork from those who are truly gifted in this area, and the monogramming trend is sure to be a hit with your family and friends if you can work your sewing machine and help it create this magic. No matter which craft area you choose to develop, know that your friends and family will appreciate your work and effort and are sure to display your work deliberately and with pride.
We all love to be the most creative gift giver, so this year, why not take something that you already do well and turn this into an original gift that will make another person happy? Take advantage of the many discount craft supplies that are available to you and make the most of your talents. Take the time to design a gift idea that truly shows a loved one that you care, and she is sure to wear and display it proudly for many years to come!
Custom Embroidery Tips
There are important considerations you have to bear in mind before creating or ordering your own, custom embroidery designs. For D-I-Y (Do-it-yourself) people, it is easy to get yourself a hi-tech embroidery machine complete with digitized programs, but the quality of your work will depend on your own artistic instincts and knowledge of specific embroidery techniques.
In order to create a high quality embroidery product, there are a few basic, but significant components that you have to watch out for when creating your own embroidery. These include:
The Thread:
The two main types of embroidery threads are Polyester and Rayon. Though the best looking designs are stitched with Rayon, Polyester is much sturdier than the former. This is because Rayon is very thin in comparison to other thread types, which also makes it hard to adjust tension.
The color of the thread also has to complement the colors in the embroidery design, along with the color of the fabric. Remember that threads can also appear to be of different shades of color depending upon the angle from which they are viewed. So choose accordingly. For example, less contrast between the colors of the fabric and the design can hide small flaws.
Stitches:
Fill-stitches form different patterns and stitch directions, and cover large areas. Too many stitches will create small gaps and too few will show through the design. So decide what type of design will be most appropriate for your Fill Stitch. Keep in mind that fabric tends to absorb small stitches, so they should be avoided.
Underlay stitches, though often overlooked, plays an important part in the final embroidery quality and design. This is because they stabilize the material held in the embroidery frame. The method in which underlay stitches are sewn into the material also paves the way for the top stitches.
Backing Materials:
The amount of stability and support provided by backing materials often determines the quality of the finished product. Backing materials like Cutaways and Tearaways should be chosen according to the type of garment or fabric used. For example, cutaway backings are ideal for knit fabrics. Tearaways can be great for those who want work quickly done because they are the easiest to use.
The Topping:
Toppings prevent fibers from getting caught in between stitches on some rough textured fabrics such as Fleece. This is made possible by stitching the embroidery through the topping, the fabric, and the backing material. Topping such as water-soluble films, when laid over stitches-observing fabric types prevent embroidery stitches from sinking into the fabric.
Locations:
The most noticeable area of the garment should be chosen as the central location of the embroidery design. However, this may be modified according to the type of garment on which the embroidery is to be applied. For example, the primary location for Short Sleeve Shirts and Long Sleeve Shirts is the Left Chest, but secondary location for Short Sleeves is more appropriate on the Left Arm; while for Long Sleeves, Center Back location looks better.
In order to create a high quality embroidery product, there are a few basic, but significant components that you have to watch out for when creating your own embroidery. These include:
The Thread:
The two main types of embroidery threads are Polyester and Rayon. Though the best looking designs are stitched with Rayon, Polyester is much sturdier than the former. This is because Rayon is very thin in comparison to other thread types, which also makes it hard to adjust tension.
The color of the thread also has to complement the colors in the embroidery design, along with the color of the fabric. Remember that threads can also appear to be of different shades of color depending upon the angle from which they are viewed. So choose accordingly. For example, less contrast between the colors of the fabric and the design can hide small flaws.
Stitches:
Fill-stitches form different patterns and stitch directions, and cover large areas. Too many stitches will create small gaps and too few will show through the design. So decide what type of design will be most appropriate for your Fill Stitch. Keep in mind that fabric tends to absorb small stitches, so they should be avoided.
Underlay stitches, though often overlooked, plays an important part in the final embroidery quality and design. This is because they stabilize the material held in the embroidery frame. The method in which underlay stitches are sewn into the material also paves the way for the top stitches.
Backing Materials:
The amount of stability and support provided by backing materials often determines the quality of the finished product. Backing materials like Cutaways and Tearaways should be chosen according to the type of garment or fabric used. For example, cutaway backings are ideal for knit fabrics. Tearaways can be great for those who want work quickly done because they are the easiest to use.
The Topping:
Toppings prevent fibers from getting caught in between stitches on some rough textured fabrics such as Fleece. This is made possible by stitching the embroidery through the topping, the fabric, and the backing material. Topping such as water-soluble films, when laid over stitches-observing fabric types prevent embroidery stitches from sinking into the fabric.
Locations:
The most noticeable area of the garment should be chosen as the central location of the embroidery design. However, this may be modified according to the type of garment on which the embroidery is to be applied. For example, the primary location for Short Sleeve Shirts and Long Sleeve Shirts is the Left Chest, but secondary location for Short Sleeves is more appropriate on the Left Arm; while for Long Sleeves, Center Back location looks better.
Cross Stitching – Creative and Decorative
If you are a person who loves arts and have an artistic hand then craft book is very useful for you. A craft book is a book that provides some sort of information about any specific art. This may include painting, knitting, stitching, candle making, doll making or any other form of craft work. You can easily spend your leisure time creatively and make some useful thing for your home and family. Craft work not only gives you pleasure but also save lot of money if wisely done.
Cross stitch book is a craft book that helps you in making beautiful decorative pieces along with fun all the way. There are some guidelines that you need to follow for cross stitching which is given in a cross stitch book.
Things you require for cross stitching
A graph that you wish to draw, even fabric for cross stitching, a tapestry needle of 24 or 26, embroidery thread or floss, embroidery hoop and scissors.
Steps for cross stitching
1. You need to separate the cotton strands which are usually in six strands in correct number for stitching. There will be a color key that will show the cotton color you have to use for each symbol in the chart. You should start the cross stitch design from the middle in such a way that the stitching you made fits in the fabric without going off from one side. You can find it easily by folding the fabric in four and thus you will find the center but remember that this point coincides with the center of the chart that is normally marked with arrows from top, bottom and sides.
2. Begin stitching by threading your needle and then bring it up to your fabric but leave a short end of cotton in the back and work over this with your first few stitches to secure it. After making enough stitches in place you can start a new color by running it through back of existing stitches. Finish the color by running the cotton under the stitches at the back so that it is secured.
3. You can make single cross stitch, row of cross stitches, half cross stitch, back stitch, part stitches which really looks great when you have finished.
Visit our recommended website craft-books.net
Cross stitch book is a craft book that helps you in making beautiful decorative pieces along with fun all the way. There are some guidelines that you need to follow for cross stitching which is given in a cross stitch book.
Things you require for cross stitching
A graph that you wish to draw, even fabric for cross stitching, a tapestry needle of 24 or 26, embroidery thread or floss, embroidery hoop and scissors.
Steps for cross stitching
1. You need to separate the cotton strands which are usually in six strands in correct number for stitching. There will be a color key that will show the cotton color you have to use for each symbol in the chart. You should start the cross stitch design from the middle in such a way that the stitching you made fits in the fabric without going off from one side. You can find it easily by folding the fabric in four and thus you will find the center but remember that this point coincides with the center of the chart that is normally marked with arrows from top, bottom and sides.
2. Begin stitching by threading your needle and then bring it up to your fabric but leave a short end of cotton in the back and work over this with your first few stitches to secure it. After making enough stitches in place you can start a new color by running it through back of existing stitches. Finish the color by running the cotton under the stitches at the back so that it is secured.
3. You can make single cross stitch, row of cross stitches, half cross stitch, back stitch, part stitches which really looks great when you have finished.
Visit our recommended website craft-books.net
Cross Stitch Tips
Here are some cross stitch tips that will help you a lot with your cross stitch projects.
GETTING STARTED
Always start stitching from the center of your fabric. To find the center on your fabric, fold the fabric in half twice. The center will be at the intersection of the two folds.
Finding the center of your chart by following the two arrows. One arrow will be in the top center and the other one in the middle left side of your chart. Follow these two arrows. Where they meet is your center stitch.
FABRIC
Put tissue paper in your hoop with your fabric then tear away the center where you are stitching. This will keep oils from getting onto your fabric and help your hands from being moist.
Use different qualities of fabric. Try cheaper fabric for quick designs, saving money so that you can splash out on the best fabric for heirloom projects.
You will want to allow 3 to 4 inches of fabric on each side of the design. This will help you framing your project easily.
THREADS
When stitching with 2 threads use only one strand of floss, put the ends together and thread them through the needle leaving a loop on one end. When you put the needle through on your second stitch, catch it through the loop. This keeps the material from getting bumpy.
When ending your thread by running under other stitches, try to match colors. Never run a dark color under light stitched, it might show through to the front.
Back stitch should be added when all other stitching has been completed.
NEEDLES
Many of us we have the bad habit of leaving the needle into the fabric when we end a session. Be aware that this can leave a permanent stain or large hole in your fabric. Always store a needle properly.
TIPS
If you have pets or small children do not keep your cross stitch materials in a bag. Keeping your threads, needles and scissors in a box that shuts securely will prevent little fingers and paws from getting into things easily!
If you are working on a larger needlework project, invest in a set of stretcher bars. They keep the fabric from getting warped and it makes it easier to actually do the sewing. They come in several sizes, and are fairly inexpensive.
Using a highlighter in a light color - yellow works very well for marking off stitches or areas of stitching as you complete them. If your lighting make the yellow hard to see at night, you could use another color like green or blue or orange when stitching at night.
GETTING STARTED
Always start stitching from the center of your fabric. To find the center on your fabric, fold the fabric in half twice. The center will be at the intersection of the two folds.
Finding the center of your chart by following the two arrows. One arrow will be in the top center and the other one in the middle left side of your chart. Follow these two arrows. Where they meet is your center stitch.
FABRIC
Put tissue paper in your hoop with your fabric then tear away the center where you are stitching. This will keep oils from getting onto your fabric and help your hands from being moist.
Use different qualities of fabric. Try cheaper fabric for quick designs, saving money so that you can splash out on the best fabric for heirloom projects.
You will want to allow 3 to 4 inches of fabric on each side of the design. This will help you framing your project easily.
THREADS
When stitching with 2 threads use only one strand of floss, put the ends together and thread them through the needle leaving a loop on one end. When you put the needle through on your second stitch, catch it through the loop. This keeps the material from getting bumpy.
When ending your thread by running under other stitches, try to match colors. Never run a dark color under light stitched, it might show through to the front.
Back stitch should be added when all other stitching has been completed.
NEEDLES
Many of us we have the bad habit of leaving the needle into the fabric when we end a session. Be aware that this can leave a permanent stain or large hole in your fabric. Always store a needle properly.
TIPS
If you have pets or small children do not keep your cross stitch materials in a bag. Keeping your threads, needles and scissors in a box that shuts securely will prevent little fingers and paws from getting into things easily!
If you are working on a larger needlework project, invest in a set of stretcher bars. They keep the fabric from getting warped and it makes it easier to actually do the sewing. They come in several sizes, and are fairly inexpensive.
Using a highlighter in a light color - yellow works very well for marking off stitches or areas of stitching as you complete them. If your lighting make the yellow hard to see at night, you could use another color like green or blue or orange when stitching at night.
Crochet - Hook Up For Fun!
The Dutch called it Haken and the Spanish called it Labor de Ganchillo, but call it Crochet and it looks just as delicate and. Today the word, with its roots in medieval French Croc or croche meaning Hook, has come to signify one of the most popular fabric crafts for men and women across the globe. Yes, I did say men…because an increasing number of men are now turning to this highly structured and organized craft for finding creative satisfaction.
Crochet is basically a series of interlocking loops of thread into a chain to create brightly colored patterns. These patterned patches can then be given various forms like table covers, tote bags, hats and baby dresses. A single chain of loops is created, with each new loop catching the thread and pulling it through the previous loop. Once the chain is completed, the thread is turned starting a second chain. Some popular stitches are: Chain, Single, Half Double, Double, Popcorn, and Cluster.
Some of the most popular theories suggest the craft originated in France. Significant evidence points to its earliest usage in the 1700s Europe where it was developed as an affordable alternative to the more expensive forms of lace. It needed inexpensive equipment and raw material to create low-cost fabric and the art picked up enough to achieve the status of a flourishing cottage industry by mid 1800s.
Branded as ‘the commoners’ lace’, this art got a fillip when it received a patron in Queen Victoria of England. Though this art has had its ups and downs over the centuries, its inherent simplicity and beauty has ensured its longevity and currency as a fashionable fabric in every century. Easy, affordable and fun, this art has many takers and a resounding Internet presence. Check out DIY guides and patterns on the web and get hooking for hours of fun.
Crochet is basically a series of interlocking loops of thread into a chain to create brightly colored patterns. These patterned patches can then be given various forms like table covers, tote bags, hats and baby dresses. A single chain of loops is created, with each new loop catching the thread and pulling it through the previous loop. Once the chain is completed, the thread is turned starting a second chain. Some popular stitches are: Chain, Single, Half Double, Double, Popcorn, and Cluster.
Some of the most popular theories suggest the craft originated in France. Significant evidence points to its earliest usage in the 1700s Europe where it was developed as an affordable alternative to the more expensive forms of lace. It needed inexpensive equipment and raw material to create low-cost fabric and the art picked up enough to achieve the status of a flourishing cottage industry by mid 1800s.
Branded as ‘the commoners’ lace’, this art got a fillip when it received a patron in Queen Victoria of England. Though this art has had its ups and downs over the centuries, its inherent simplicity and beauty has ensured its longevity and currency as a fashionable fabric in every century. Easy, affordable and fun, this art has many takers and a resounding Internet presence. Check out DIY guides and patterns on the web and get hooking for hours of fun.
Creating a Childrens Birthday Scrapbook
I remember when my kids were young, I loved their birthday parties and wanted to capture every moment. Often though, it wasn’t until after the party was over that I realized I only took a few photos and that I didn’t save any of the extra invitations.
Knowing in advance that you’ll want to make a scrapbook of your child’s party, you can save items such as the guest list, the invitations and any greeting cards the child gets in the mail. All of these can be added to the scrapbook.
Consider taking a photo of each guest as they arrive. This photo can be with or without your own birthday child. If you are not using a digital camera, consider having 3 sets of photos printed. Set one is for the scrapbook you are making of the party. Set two is to send to each guest’s parents, and set three is to put away for when your child is older and wants their own set of photos of their first 20 years of life.
When it’s time to open presents, in addition to taking photos, save the cards that come with the gifts. These make wonderful additions the scrapbook. Often, at younger ages, children make their own cards, and they are truly too precious to throw out. Add them to your birthday scrapbook.
If you’ve ordered a cake, or even if you’ve baked a cake, take a photo before the candles are added. If you’ve used a family recipe to bake the cake, make a copy of the recipe to include in the scrapbook alongside the picture of the cake.
Does the party have a theme? If you are purchasing stickers to give away in goodie bags, purchase an additional set of stickers (of course acid free and lignin free) to add to your scrapbook pages.
If the child’s grandparents are at the party, make sure to take photos of the child with the grandparents. This is true for other relatives that are there also. Mini albums for relatives who do or do not attend make wonderful gifts. I love when I get photos of my niece. It’s so neat to keep up with her parties and other activities through photos.
With the above suggestions, you’ll create a lasting memory for both you and your child.
Knowing in advance that you’ll want to make a scrapbook of your child’s party, you can save items such as the guest list, the invitations and any greeting cards the child gets in the mail. All of these can be added to the scrapbook.
Consider taking a photo of each guest as they arrive. This photo can be with or without your own birthday child. If you are not using a digital camera, consider having 3 sets of photos printed. Set one is for the scrapbook you are making of the party. Set two is to send to each guest’s parents, and set three is to put away for when your child is older and wants their own set of photos of their first 20 years of life.
When it’s time to open presents, in addition to taking photos, save the cards that come with the gifts. These make wonderful additions the scrapbook. Often, at younger ages, children make their own cards, and they are truly too precious to throw out. Add them to your birthday scrapbook.
If you’ve ordered a cake, or even if you’ve baked a cake, take a photo before the candles are added. If you’ve used a family recipe to bake the cake, make a copy of the recipe to include in the scrapbook alongside the picture of the cake.
Does the party have a theme? If you are purchasing stickers to give away in goodie bags, purchase an additional set of stickers (of course acid free and lignin free) to add to your scrapbook pages.
If the child’s grandparents are at the party, make sure to take photos of the child with the grandparents. This is true for other relatives that are there also. Mini albums for relatives who do or do not attend make wonderful gifts. I love when I get photos of my niece. It’s so neat to keep up with her parties and other activities through photos.
With the above suggestions, you’ll create a lasting memory for both you and your child.
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