tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64609460962622649682024-03-13T07:17:34.080-07:00Attempting AlohaUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-41187829764851591582023-09-07T09:21:00.015-07:002023-09-07T10:13:27.063-07:00DIY Decorations for Dinosaur Party: Unleash the Prehistoric Fun!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Aloha!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today we're diving deep into the Mesozoic era to bring some dino-mite fun to your next party. If you've got a little paleontologist at home or just a kiddo who's fascinated by these ancient creatures, these DIY decorations are sure to make your dinosaur-themed party a roaring success!</div><span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div><div><b>1. Dinosaur Footprints:</b> Using some non-toxic, washable paint, create dino footprints leading up to your front door or throughout your party space. It's a fun way to set the mood right from the start!</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9-varc1Q8SZGNYJAFCST4f8ExJEmAa6HOfRYwuVG_bhA64i_mMlbW0-BHWDPDMog3yFds67EV-5j2Kj1FGXeZY2m0jCExT0bc08lWrgnfMwrR7i1oh6JlwwUQdczphTOh5ScyDEXVPcm0zoWrD0_C6_6TUXfQCbTD3KTyanSHeEVodRY11J_W0SZxP4/s1024/dinosaur-footprints.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Dinosaur Footprints" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9-varc1Q8SZGNYJAFCST4f8ExJEmAa6HOfRYwuVG_bhA64i_mMlbW0-BHWDPDMog3yFds67EV-5j2Kj1FGXeZY2m0jCExT0bc08lWrgnfMwrR7i1oh6JlwwUQdczphTOh5ScyDEXVPcm0zoWrD0_C6_6TUXfQCbTD3KTyanSHeEVodRY11J_W0SZxP4/w640-h640/dinosaur-footprints.jpg" title="DIY Dinosaur Footprints" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><b>2. Dino Egg Hunt:</b> Remember the joy of Easter egg hunts? Let's give it a prehistoric twist! Paint some plastic eggs with speckled patterns to resemble dino eggs. Hide them around and let the kids have a blast finding them.</p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePujSIjgo_8sOq9DtPl9xYQsCs3u8vaIDDe5Sn856eMC5otBpP_7BkzbDAJzwk5gi3fGpgWuNrfyxRuRWm1QWTLG2PspmdE-pP8C5EkFWJPAWeWambwQmRlIoYryx4LK8sU2WCCn_mVWzBFaaucnHDXHYrks4VS5OcluHqo6RGH17EyD_vIhVEiPq4cM/s1024/dinosaur-eggs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Dino Eggs Hunt" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1024" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePujSIjgo_8sOq9DtPl9xYQsCs3u8vaIDDe5Sn856eMC5otBpP_7BkzbDAJzwk5gi3fGpgWuNrfyxRuRWm1QWTLG2PspmdE-pP8C5EkFWJPAWeWambwQmRlIoYryx4LK8sU2WCCn_mVWzBFaaucnHDXHYrks4VS5OcluHqo6RGH17EyD_vIhVEiPq4cM/w640-h600/dinosaur-eggs.jpg" title="DIY Dino Eggs" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>3. Volcano Centerpiece:</b> Craft a paper mache volcano as the centerpiece for your party table. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Add a bit of baking soda and vinegar, and voila!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You've got an erupting volcano that'll leave the kids in awe.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>4. Jungle Vines:</b> Use green crepe paper or streamers to create jungle vines. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hang them from the ceiling or drape them around the party area to give it a dense jungle feel.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>5. Dinosaur Silhouettes:</b> Cut out dinosaur silhouettes from black craft paper and stick them on walls, windows, or even as a backdrop for your photo booth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's a simple yet effective way to bring the dino vibe to your party.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0nz7Jw29zexVAcu_3FVhdVxc1zm46PsVVKeLOeq4LALhFHXOA_2sBARnpImpqbvALkzucC22je49wWlAae8KVzFoLXluMmcl3zt5ckmnk9aaHTYF8R_j98ABNqRzQE2x2e4o5agDzhUsIitqDiiiexXZvgyq8pjdxjm6ugbkjqxQFazY9t1Lewv2QPM/s1024/dinosaur-silhouettes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dinosaur Silhouettes from craft black paper" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0nz7Jw29zexVAcu_3FVhdVxc1zm46PsVVKeLOeq4LALhFHXOA_2sBARnpImpqbvALkzucC22je49wWlAae8KVzFoLXluMmcl3zt5ckmnk9aaHTYF8R_j98ABNqRzQE2x2e4o5agDzhUsIitqDiiiexXZvgyq8pjdxjm6ugbkjqxQFazY9t1Lewv2QPM/w640-h640/dinosaur-silhouettes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>6. Dino Egg Nest:</b> Using a large bowl or basket, fill it with straw or shredded paper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Place your painted dino eggs inside, and you've got a nest! It makes for a great table decoration or even a game where kids can "hatch" their own dino from the eggs.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>7. Fossil Imprints:</b> Mix up some salt dough and let the kids make fossil imprints using small toy dinosaurs. Once dried, these can be taken home as party favors.</div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>8. Prehistoric Plants:</b> Craft some prehistoric-looking plants using craft paper, tissue paper, or even real ferns. Place them around your party space to transport your guests back in time.</span></p></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNfcxlMrWMoveSoCKR_QzmbqsHAYZPKBtWbr_-qDkyTE2G8eFrE4j6IIUnmVhl8-0bLfE7Lr7n35pi4hcFUnaXJGFexBpDfW_qB3U8-3NClnAo5WpyYTcufKgvgLGsTemcsF49jvsT7JMYXH53tDk3xDX1aor3bDODq_caXXMbN0CF0ksLNpbVUdcpCw/s1024/prehistoric.plants.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Prehistoric plants made of craft paper" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNfcxlMrWMoveSoCKR_QzmbqsHAYZPKBtWbr_-qDkyTE2G8eFrE4j6IIUnmVhl8-0bLfE7Lr7n35pi4hcFUnaXJGFexBpDfW_qB3U8-3NClnAo5WpyYTcufKgvgLGsTemcsF49jvsT7JMYXH53tDk3xDX1aor3bDODq_caXXMbN0CF0ksLNpbVUdcpCw/w640-h640/prehistoric.plants.jpg" title="Prehistoric plants made of craft paper" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><b>9. Dino Tails:</b> Using green fabric or felt, create dino tails for the kids to wear. </div><div>Attach them with Velcro or elastic bands. It's a fun accessory that'll have the kids stomping around in no time!</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Lava Lamps:</b> Remember those old-school lava lamps? They can make a comeback for your dino party! Craft some using water, oil, and food coloring. When the "lava" moves, it'll surely mesmerize the little ones.</div><div>Happy crafting and roaring partying! With love and a sprinkle of dino dust, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqecR2khKSxH0hG-_Be_dIA6jV9l18i26D-F6wqKYySGVJi2_k0KuFrHLSun5I1e-DMRnovCn8XjwAKBwYz5aPcY2HMBGlAhfnuKRxjJAFh4i1L4KICXVAnk2jp25hknB5YQOQkgSVY_kjmfygkkfNmTTLJIFHypdK-JOjoY0O5KdEfY1qKKX1DIsZFZs/s1024/lava.lamps.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img alt="Lava lamps" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqecR2khKSxH0hG-_Be_dIA6jV9l18i26D-F6wqKYySGVJi2_k0KuFrHLSun5I1e-DMRnovCn8XjwAKBwYz5aPcY2HMBGlAhfnuKRxjJAFh4i1L4KICXVAnk2jp25hknB5YQOQkgSVY_kjmfygkkfNmTTLJIFHypdK-JOjoY0O5KdEfY1qKKX1DIsZFZs/w640-h640/lava.lamps.jpg" title="Lava lamps" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy crafting and roaring partying!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With love and a sprinkle of dino dust, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Charlee 🦖🌋🌿</div></div><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-51053330947682764272017-05-11T12:47:00.017-07:002021-04-19T08:59:46.770-07:00Mommies Just Like You - Mother's Day PoemAloha!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RC9i42wpHZY/WRS9Q2fAm3I/AAAAAAAADxs/c987C8WZRfQVr3nz2w_gPm6vL_mEZpR8wCKgB/s1600/Mommies%2BJust%2BLike%2BYou%2BPoem%2BMother%2527s%2BDay%2BAttempting%2BAloha.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RC9i42wpHZY/WRS9Q2fAm3I/AAAAAAAADxs/c987C8WZRfQVr3nz2w_gPm6vL_mEZpR8wCKgB/s1600/Mommies%2BJust%2BLike%2BYou%2BPoem%2BMother%2527s%2BDay%2BAttempting%2BAloha.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />We're in the final stretch before Mother's Day weekend, and I wanted to share this poem that I wrote a few years ago (8!!) Having lived all over the world, we've been away from "family" for almost our entire 15 years of marriage. Without fail, we always seem to adopt some grandmas and aunties wherever we're planted. I really wanted to be able to thank them for all their help and love, but they're not technically my mom. So I came up with this poem as a way to thank them. It's written from the perspective of my kids<br /><br />I've also made it as a printable if you would like to share it with your adopted mom tribe/village as well. The lovely watercolor flowers are by <a href="http://www.foxandhazel.com/" target="_blank">Fox and Hazel</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4DQytOD0uc/WRUSQEusYiI/AAAAAAAADyU/_0lnyOeVUBU0KhegXTEk279YCYrhVAbagCEw/s1600/Mommies%2BJust%2BLike%2BYou%2BPrintable.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4DQytOD0uc/WRUSQEusYiI/AAAAAAAADyU/_0lnyOeVUBU0KhegXTEk279YCYrhVAbagCEw/s1600/Mommies%2BJust%2BLike%2BYou%2BPrintable.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />This poem may not be re-typed in its entirety without my permission. It may also not be altered or used for commercial purposes. Please email attemptingaaloha @ gmail . com for permission. Photo may be shared as long as it links back to this page. Mahalo for spreading the aloha!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B38rncNBMqeKLW83NVMwS3FvV3M/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE IS THE LINK TO THE PRINTABLE</a><br /><br /><br />Aloha and happy Mother's Day,<br /><br /><i>Charlee</i><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-89154565910898212092013-01-16T08:37:00.034-08:002021-04-19T09:02:45.363-07:00DIY Baby Monthly Onesies and Free Printables<p style="text-align: center;">This post contains affiliate links</p>
<br />Aloha,<br />
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I'll keep today's post short and sweet! I made these monthly Onesies <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(R) </span>as
a baby shower gift for a friend of mine and then did some more for my
own little guy and thought I'd share the printable here with you.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3H_g3ScL5Ls/UPbFeALg8tI/AAAAAAAACGE/0-gIBYQ8Hdw/s1600/Baby+Monthly+onesies+Attempting+Aloha+free+printable.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3H_g3ScL5Ls/UPbFeALg8tI/AAAAAAAACGE/0-gIBYQ8Hdw/s640/Baby+Monthly+onesies+Attempting+Aloha+free+printable.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The printables are for months 1-12, and I just used iron-on transfer paper. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006HV2ZE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0006HV2ZE&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=32b69bdbcbc58f0981ef1cc7c7c819e4" target="_blank">Here is a link to the brand I used</a>.
The printables are facing the normal direction, but remember that they
need to be printed in reverse. Look through your printer options to do
that. My printer has "iron-on paper" as one of the paper settings, and
it automatically flips it. Test it out on a regular sheet of paper to
make sure it's printing right, so you don't waste your transfer paper.
:)</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJPDxvKmZds/UPbUJ1lLBtI/AAAAAAAACGo/v6tkg41NVR8/s1600/Attempting+Aloha+how+to+printable+monthly+onesies+infant.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJPDxvKmZds/UPbUJ1lLBtI/AAAAAAAACGo/v6tkg41NVR8/s640/Attempting+Aloha+how+to+printable+monthly+onesies+infant.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
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The hardest part about this project is finding enough Onesies in the
right sizes without breaking the bank. They usually come in packs of
4-6, and I had a hard time finding the sizes I needed. Ugh! I think I
ended up paying about $22, and I had a couple left over. Different
brands have different sizes, too, so I think I had a pack of 3-6 month
that I used for months 4-6 and then a 3-9 month that I used for 7-9.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfsrgyuWxBs/UPbUNCiVXkI/AAAAAAAACG4/bDKEQ_qyBX0/s1600/Baby+Monthly+onesies+printable+free+tutorial.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfsrgyuWxBs/UPbUNCiVXkI/AAAAAAAACG4/bDKEQ_qyBX0/s640/Baby+Monthly+onesies+printable+free+tutorial.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Aren't they cute?!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aY5mX82ifec/UPbUKOJlD4I/AAAAAAAACGw/_scG-0yqBEw/s1600/Attempting+Aloha+free+printable+baby+shower+gift+idea.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aY5mX82ifec/UPbUKOJlD4I/AAAAAAAACGw/_scG-0yqBEw/s640/Attempting+Aloha+free+printable+baby+shower+gift+idea.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
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I like giving practical packaging instead of the standard gift bags. I
bought this little bin at Dollar Tree and lined it with tissue paper.
Then I folded each of the sides in on each Onesie and rolled them up, so
the month was showing. I actually put the bigger months on the bottom
and months 1-6 on the top. <br />
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Such a fun gift! Now let's just hope the baby isn't a chunker. ;) I
have my little guy's all printed out but am waiting to iron them on one
month at a time since he's big! That 2 month pic (right on his 2 month
bday) he's actually in a 3-6 month size! Ha!!</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B38rncNBMqeKRmxCT1BEUXB1LVE/edit" target="_blank">HERE is the link for the girl version.</a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B38rncNBMqeKQWI0N0dfSEViX3M/edit" target="_blank">HERE is the link for the boy version.</a></div>
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I'd love to hear or see pics if you decide to make these. Please comment or share a pic if you do.<br />
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Aloha,<br />
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CharlieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-34751591882566699872012-07-03T11:15:00.001-07:002021-04-19T09:04:21.434-07:00DIY Upholstered Toddler Bed / Couch Plans<p> Aloha!</p>
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Well, I'm finally building again! I'm still medicated, but the nausea is
MUCH much better than it was, and I'm able to be up and about for most
of the day. It's wonderful!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H6yJ5acZqxU/T_MsIQ9MXAI/AAAAAAAABz8/9a7l_AP04pA/s1600/How+to+build+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+DIY+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H6yJ5acZqxU/T_MsIQ9MXAI/AAAAAAAABz8/9a7l_AP04pA/s640/How+to+build+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+DIY+plans.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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Before I started getting sick, I had talked to my friend, Melanie, about
building a toddler bed for her youngest son. Since he's her last baby,
she wanted something that could be used for something else after he
outgrows the toddler stage. We decided this <a href="http://ana-white.com/2010/04/plans-graces-room-again-this-time-with-a-toddler-sized-upholstered-daybed.html" target="_blank">toddler bed plan from Ana White</a> was
the perfect solution since she can make some cushions or pillows to go
along the back after he outgrows the bed, and it can be used as a couch!
Excellent!<br />
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I used the plans for the headboard exactly, but we shortened the legs
just a tiny. I ended up not doing the base plans but instead doing it
more like the toddler canopy bed I
did a few months ago. So you may have to ignore my base picture and
just stick with Ana's. :) Hers is excellent as well (of course)!<br />
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Meet Melanie. A newcomer in the world of power tools. We built in her
lovely garage, and I covet her finished floors. But I brought along my
handy little miter saw. I'm in love with this little thing. Seriously.
Less than $100, and it can do ALMOST everything I need it to. It cut
through a 2x6 like <i>buttah</i>. ;) <br />
<br />
Melanie received a crash course in miter saw and nail gun safety and
use. She was nervous but excited at first, and now I think I've created a
building monster. I wouldn't be surprised if she buys her own saw
before the weekend. Even before we were half way through the project,
she was already picking my brain about other projects she could do an
wants to get started on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8o4NIu29Fb8/T_MsFEoXjLI/AAAAAAAABz0/GpoknHRJsNg/s1600/DIY+building+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+how+to+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8o4NIu29Fb8/T_MsFEoXjLI/AAAAAAAABz0/GpoknHRJsNg/s640/DIY+building+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+how+to+plans.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
Two moms, 8 kids under the age of 9, and we were able to hammer out the
building portion of our project in one afternoon. Yes, folks. Just one.<br />
<br />
Here's the base all put together:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y4YhJjtmqLk/T_MsSYkcOqI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/vXffszrkYO0/s1600/Upholstered+toddler+bed+base+couch+how+to+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y4YhJjtmqLk/T_MsSYkcOqI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/vXffszrkYO0/s640/Upholstered+toddler+bed+base+couch+how+to+plans.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And here's the headboard:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QPvEyJdMhg/T_MsbM0XjKI/AAAAAAAAB0o/HMCFMEExq2E/s1600/Upholstered+toddler+bed+headboard+DIY+Plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QPvEyJdMhg/T_MsbM0XjKI/AAAAAAAAB0o/HMCFMEExq2E/s640/Upholstered+toddler+bed+headboard+DIY+Plans.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Upholstering took another day since we were really tight on fabric. We
used a black pleather, and it was only 54" wide. Those extra 6" would
have been EXTRA nice. Same with the batting. It was shorter than 60", so
it took some negotiation. The pleather had to be cut very precise, and
it took extra effort to stretch it just right and staple right on the
edge. I highly recommend making sure you have at least 60" width or you
buy more than the specified 2 yards.<br />
<br />
You can see how we were just barely able to curve it around the top of
the base section. It would have been nice to have it down another 1/2"
or so. Oh, well. it still looks fab!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQ2jUkpbQtQ/T_MsNhYgC4I/AAAAAAAAB0M/FqfhexmFSgk/s1600/Plans+for+building+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+how+to.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQ2jUkpbQtQ/T_MsNhYgC4I/AAAAAAAAB0M/FqfhexmFSgk/s640/Plans+for+building+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+how+to.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We added nailhead trim for a couple reasons. 1) It's cute and adds some
nice contrast. 2) It covers our staples along the side without having to
buy separate upholstery tack strip and dealing with that annoying task.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCDYPeglHNY/T_MsLLVfWnI/AAAAAAAAB0E/Gmr6S1J16eQ/s1600/How+to+build+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+tutorial.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCDYPeglHNY/T_MsLLVfWnI/AAAAAAAAB0E/Gmr6S1J16eQ/s640/How+to+build+an+upholstered+toddler+bed+couch+tutorial.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white;">And here it is with the crib mattress:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G8RwQ_ORaSM/T_MtmvTYUQI/AAAAAAAAB0w/v4HkvF2_y4s/s1600/DIY+upholstered+toddler+bed+how+to+tutorial+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G8RwQ_ORaSM/T_MtmvTYUQI/AAAAAAAAB0w/v4HkvF2_y4s/s640/DIY+upholstered+toddler+bed+how+to+tutorial+plans.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Building with a friend is much more fun than building by myself. Not to
mention much easier to have someone to keep things steady while putting
everything together.<br />
<br />
And another big thanks to Ana for her brilliant inspiration and plans.
She's my hero. I may or may not have a girl crush on her. ;)<br />
<br />
Now if I can <strike>swindle</strike> talk someone into being my accomplice while I do my next project...<br />
<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
<i>Charlie</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-88893957861444313042012-01-19T12:33:00.035-08:002021-04-19T09:31:41.215-07:00Think outside the {toy} Box - Over 50 Organizational Tips for Kids' Spaces<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vzegYDDb9jU/YHoFFWn9a0I/AAAAAAAAAcY/PsiwISa0_r0ytcaatdlwRFmUTd4jlXNxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/50%2BOrganizational%2Btips%2Bfor%2BKids.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="125" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vzegYDDb9jU/YHoFFWn9a0I/AAAAAAAAAcY/PsiwISa0_r0ytcaatdlwRFmUTd4jlXNxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/50%2BOrganizational%2Btips%2Bfor%2BKids.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post contains Amazon Affiliate links. All opinions are my own.</span></div>
<br />
Okay, let's just get right to it. These are kids' spaces. Kids need and
want to use their space for playing, right? They don't want their
precious floor space crowded with boxes of their own toys! But heaven
forbid they actually have to give up any of those toys!!! So what's a
mom to do?<br />
<br />
First, I have to say that I'm a big fan of the "rotate" idea. If you
remember when I built our toy boxes, I built three of the huge beasts.
But only two of them reside in the playroom. One of them stays in attic
space, and the kids get to rotate toys in and out of it every 3 or 4
months or so. <br />
<br />
I find this helps my kids realize just how LITTLE they play with certain
toys and helps them let go of them later on. If they can see that a toy
hasn't been "in play" for the last two or three rotations, it's
probably time for it to go to another home, so another child can enjoy
it. <br />
<br />
That being said, the next thing moms are going to look for are
space-saving and utilizing ideas. That's what we'll be looking for
today!<br />
<br />
Let's start with this great idea from Ana White. I'm the founder of the I
{heart} Ana White fan club. She's amazing! While building may sound
daunting to many, I can assure you, it's not as bad or hard as it seems.
And you can always simplify an idea to suit your own skill level. Like,
for instance, using pre-built shelves but attaching them to the back of
a closet door instead of building this entire thing!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ana-white.com/2010/08/behind-closet-doors.html" target="_blank">Ana White - Grace's Closet</a><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uC3DA5x2lS0/UctWQQHqD0I/AAAAAAAACTo/g9dtXYa0K8k/s1600/Ana+White+Grace's+closet+organization.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uC3DA5x2lS0/UctWQQHqD0I/AAAAAAAACTo/g9dtXYa0K8k/s640/Ana+White+Grace's+closet+organization.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And if you're really afraid of building (or are renting and don't want
to put holes in closet doors), what about using a good ol' shoe
organizer to store those barbies or action figures?<br />
<br />
The Container Store <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016MD0JKE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B016MD0JKE&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=fffd29ee46acd6d5fa48da019da10081" target="_blank">found on Amazon</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDSZ_DmOdHo/UctXAfzsQrI/AAAAAAAACTw/M2XUiUw2yOM/s1600/Container+Store+Shoe+Organizer+for+Barbies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDSZ_DmOdHo/UctXAfzsQrI/AAAAAAAACTw/M2XUiUw2yOM/s400/Container+Store+Shoe+Organizer+for+Barbies.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
Also a great idea for keeping track of art and school supplies. This comes from Jamie at <a href="http://somethingtodo-jamie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Something to Do</a>.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpCmSFUbOSM/UctYx9fSIfI/AAAAAAAACUA/8KlaHheWnpk/s1600/Shoe+Organizer+for+art+supplies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpCmSFUbOSM/UctYx9fSIfI/AAAAAAAACUA/8KlaHheWnpk/s640/Shoe+Organizer+for+art+supplies.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Another area that gets neglected or goes unused is under the bed. Or
perhaps it's used...just not like you want it to be! Well, one of my
blog bff's has come up with a great storage solution that's easy for
kids to roll out, but won't require you to build drawers (I've helped
build some drawers, and I'll admit I don't love it.) <br />
<br />
These are an excellent and simple alternative! Go visit <a href="http://thatsmyletter.blogspot.com/2011/02/s-is-for-storage.html" target="_blank">Jaime (That's My Letter)</a> and tell her hello. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--xhfRTXeRVY/UctZgKTYqoI/AAAAAAAACUI/8nbX8R9dtNE/s1600/That's+My+Letter+Under+Bed+Organization.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--xhfRTXeRVY/UctZgKTYqoI/AAAAAAAACUI/8nbX8R9dtNE/s400/That's+My+Letter+Under+Bed+Organization.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br /></div>
If you're not ready to build, can I convince you to spray paint? Yeah, I
thought you might like that. We're going industrial this year, and
these lockers are perfect! Love the open top shelves of this one and the
different color inside! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/craftrocklove/2755133802/in/faves-catalina58601/" target="_blank">Via Vickie Howell on Flickr</a><br />
<br />
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UaKcl4PDbb8/UctbDH6qMxI/AAAAAAAACUY/rncg-x3JePc/s1600/Peach+Locker+as+Storage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UaKcl4PDbb8/UctbDH6qMxI/AAAAAAAACUY/rncg-x3JePc/s640/Peach+Locker+as+Storage.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
If your kids are a bit older, and you love a good knock-off project, Ana
White has some great plans for a similar teen storage tower. I haven't
seen these in person, but I'm not sure I'd recommend them for smaller
kids due to stability (and my children's affinity for climbing). But
perfect for a teen girl's room! <a href="http://ana-white.com/2011/03/rotating-teen-storage-unit" target="_blank">Here's a link for Ana's plans</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
And here are the lovely originals from<a href="http://www.pbteen.com/products/display-it-storage-mirror/?pkey=cbookcases-shelves" target="_blank"> PB Teen</a>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbhJS5z-9kg/Uk1dvmM1txI/AAAAAAAACag/Pib9D7DfeQ8/s1600/PB+Teen+Rotating+Organization.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbhJS5z-9kg/Uk1dvmM1txI/AAAAAAAACag/Pib9D7DfeQ8/s640/PB+Teen+Rotating+Organization.jpg" width="635" /></a></div>
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<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
And you can't do an organizational post without showing some pegboard love!<br /><br />
This is from <a href="http://houseonashwelllane.blogspot.it/2011/05/pegboard-organization-for-trishas-room.html" target="_blank">House on Ashwell Lane:</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjpyRfRoIq0/Uk1fXTJx22I/AAAAAAAACas/o7NCiaL4XrQ/s1600/House+on+Ashwell+Lane+Pegboard.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjpyRfRoIq0/Uk1fXTJx22I/AAAAAAAACas/o7NCiaL4XrQ/s640/House+on+Ashwell+Lane+Pegboard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br /></div>
All kids love costumes, right? Simply gut an old dresser and build a cute little wardrobe! Natalie at <a href="http://www.aturtleslifeforme.com/2011/05/dress-up-headquarters.html" target="_blank">A Turtle's Life for Me</a> did an amazing job on this one for her daughter!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBUTbbzvvoU/Uk1glTpH3CI/AAAAAAAACa4/5Qtgi0GRj4c/s1600/A+Turtle's+Life+for+Me+Dresser+Kids+Dress+ups.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBUTbbzvvoU/Uk1glTpH3CI/AAAAAAAACa4/5Qtgi0GRj4c/s640/A+Turtle's+Life+for+Me+Dresser+Kids+Dress+ups.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
Can we talk about stuffed animals for a minute?</div>
<br />
Does your child have a serious stuffed animal problem? Just go ahead and
throw them in the trash. No, really! Did you get the memo that
industrial is in?! What's more industrial than a metal garbage can? This
one was created by Rebekah Merkle on her blog
rebekahmerkle.blogspot.com, but I guess she is no longer blogging, and
the link to her site doesn't work. :( She actually used it as a garbage
can in her home, but I think her "scrunchy" looks like a cute liner,
and I can envision my 7-year-old having a good time putting all her
buddies in the trash at night. I'm not sure what sizes are available,
but this size seems more suited for older kids. It would just make the
little ones really mad. ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUg0e2qMNcc/Uk1jb0Yb4kI/AAAAAAAACbE/GK9mEpuhMBc/s1600/Rebekah+Merkle+Trash+Can.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUg0e2qMNcc/Uk1jb0Yb4kI/AAAAAAAACbE/GK9mEpuhMBc/s640/Rebekah+Merkle+Trash+Can.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br /></div>
And this one just kills me! If I wasn't a renter, I think I'd put them
all over my walls! I originally saw it on Better Homes and Gardens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bhg.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HRdAWNDlX0/Uk1lN2bCBEI/AAAAAAAACbQ/TQqxxusLl0I/s640/BHG+Flower+Basket+toy+storage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
No kids' room organization list would be complete without a classic "stuffed animal net"! This great tutorial is from <a href="http://www.lemonsqueezyhome.com/2011/02/stuffed-animal-net-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Lemon Squeezy Home</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfnVFX7Xczs/Up-58pRcWjI/AAAAAAAACew/zIKO8nTTJSY/s1600/Stuffed+Animal+Net+Lemon+Squeezy+Home.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfnVFX7Xczs/Up-58pRcWjI/AAAAAAAACew/zIKO8nTTJSY/s640/Stuffed+Animal+Net+Lemon+Squeezy+Home.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This one doesn't have a tutorial, but they seem simple enough to make! You can see the whole room tour at Bees Knees Bungalow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pzga8_Y6-Is/Up-7AGU7kRI/AAAAAAAACe8/W7XdwvxndaU/s1600/Bees+Knees+Bungalow+shelves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pzga8_Y6-Is/Up-7AGU7kRI/AAAAAAAACe8/W7XdwvxndaU/s640/Bees+Knees+Bungalow+shelves.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This is another cute knock-off project with a good tutorial. I think my kids would love this one! You can see the tutorial at <a href="http://www.onthebanksofsquawcreek.com/2011/08/pinterest-project-7-zoo.html" target="_blank">On the Banks of Squaw Creek.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xIg2K2mILg4/Up-9EJrkqFI/AAAAAAAACfI/7qcRu-KTDqY/s1600/On+the+Banks+of+Squaw+Creek+stuffed+animal+jail.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xIg2K2mILg4/Up-9EJrkqFI/AAAAAAAACfI/7qcRu-KTDqY/s640/On+the+Banks+of+Squaw+Creek+stuffed+animal+jail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<br /></div>
Love this one! So simple! You could even just hang a rope from a plant
hanger on the ceiling, and then clip the stuffed animals right to the
rope with clothespins! Great way to utilize the higher spaces in the
room. But be prepared to be called in to help the little guys get the
treasures they can't reach! :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZB9FdSOfSo/Up_Aul-RD2I/AAAAAAAACfU/1rZIjvKU42w/s1600/Trendy+Treehouse+Stuffed+Animals+Line.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZB9FdSOfSo/Up_Aul-RD2I/AAAAAAAACfU/1rZIjvKU42w/s640/Trendy+Treehouse+Stuffed+Animals+Line.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes, yes, I KNOW this is a shower caddy. But can't you picture some cute
little stuffed animals chilling on those shelves, tucked away in a
corner?? You can find <a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/storage/craft-room/crafts-storage-with-unexpected-items/#page=14" target="_blank">more ideas at BHG.com</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2n-Fgboe2aY/Up_DM-uZH0I/AAAAAAAACfg/22djkV2mTac/s1600/BHG+Storage+Caddy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2n-Fgboe2aY/Up_DM-uZH0I/AAAAAAAACfg/22djkV2mTac/s640/BHG+Storage+Caddy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And this one is kind of a combination of the trash can and the animal zoo! Very cute! See more pics at <a href="http://prudentbaby.com/2011/01/prudent-home/stuffed-animal-storage-solution-2/" target="_blank">Prudent Baby.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ7EGweSJ58/Up_EYi4Vd4I/AAAAAAAACfs/YyfMtoOcJr0/s1600/Hamper+for+stuffed+animals.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ7EGweSJ58/Up_EYi4Vd4I/AAAAAAAACfs/YyfMtoOcJr0/s640/Hamper+for+stuffed+animals.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We can't neglect those small toys, though, right?<br />
<br />
These clear toy storage bags from <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2011/12/clear-toy-storage-bags-with-drawstring-closure.html" target="_blank">Make It and Love It </a>are
excellent! Kids can open them on their own, and they can see exactly
what's in the bag, thus lessening the "throw it all out to see if my
favorite toy is at the bottom".<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODNeiNl8Qmc/Up_GGcj6QgI/AAAAAAAACf4/EScrH_dxMt0/s1600/Clear+Storage+Bags+Make+it+and+love+it.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODNeiNl8Qmc/Up_GGcj6QgI/AAAAAAAACf4/EScrH_dxMt0/s640/Clear+Storage+Bags+Make+it+and+love+it.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And more fabulous storage ideas from <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2011/09/fabric-storage-boxes-per-your-request.html#more-4543" target="_blank">Make It and Love It</a>. These ones are fabric storage boxes, and I am in love with the coordinating fabrics!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Qq8CME77q8/Up_HrvqUHwI/AAAAAAAACgE/yIr1PhNPpJM/s1600/Fabric+Storage+Boxes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Qq8CME77q8/Up_HrvqUHwI/AAAAAAAACgE/yIr1PhNPpJM/s640/Fabric+Storage+Boxes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love the color organization by <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2011/09/fabric-storage-boxes-per-your-request.html#more-4543" target="_blank">I Heart Organizing</a> in her playroom!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv_Bf3PMs5Y/Up_JgaNkRfI/AAAAAAAACgU/pbx-36NFLgU/s1600/Lego+storage+Iheartorganizing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv_Bf3PMs5Y/Up_JgaNkRfI/AAAAAAAACgU/pbx-36NFLgU/s640/Lego+storage+Iheartorganizing.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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This site has free printables for these canister labels. She's used them
on Folgers canisters, but I've been saving up my large cashew
canisters, and I think something like this would be perfect! Great that
the kids can easily see what's in the can! Visit Heart of Wisdom for the free printables!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVlGwc_WDKk/Up_LjqjXmOI/AAAAAAAACgc/PnKn3IJKn0s/s1600/Coffee+canister+labels.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVlGwc_WDKk/Up_LjqjXmOI/AAAAAAAACgc/PnKn3IJKn0s/s640/Coffee+canister+labels.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a tutorial for a fun little car caddy!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYvt07VyUIs/Up_NBJfE_VI/AAAAAAAACgo/_udA6echvGg/s1600/cozy+car+caddy+open.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYvt07VyUIs/Up_NBJfE_VI/AAAAAAAACgo/_udA6echvGg/s640/cozy+car+caddy+open.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love these under-the-bed storage bins from <a href="http://www.womansday.com/home/craft-ideas/diy-decorative-storage-bins-81098" target="_blank">Woman's Day</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3sW_tBNiZ8/Up_OtHc-0SI/AAAAAAAACg4/_UXQraeLgNs/s1600/DIY-Decorative-Storage-Bins-mdn.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3sW_tBNiZ8/Up_OtHc-0SI/AAAAAAAACg4/_UXQraeLgNs/s640/DIY-Decorative-Storage-Bins-mdn.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
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Are you cheap like me? What about taking some of those heavy-duty diaper
or wipes boxes and covering them with cheap burlap? This has held up
extremely well over the last year of use and even during our move across
the ocean! Not bad for a $1 box. :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyq09Fya9OI/Utqfnc_mc8I/AAAAAAAACiA/fYFRfIvre38/s1600/Burlap+covered+cardboard+box+with+pleats.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyq09Fya9OI/Utqfnc_mc8I/AAAAAAAACiA/fYFRfIvre38/s1600/Burlap+covered+cardboard+box+with+pleats.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
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Let's not forget all those board games! <a href="http://www.infarrantlycreative.net/2010/01/game-board-storage-art.html" target="_blank">Beckie at Infarrantly Creative i</a>s
a craft genius! Why not turn your usable board games into fun, colorful
wall art? All the pieces are stored in the framed boxes! Excellent!!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arlo2rqYWno/UtqjBD4H1nI/AAAAAAAACiM/1V7olGoofF0/s1600/Infarrantly+Creative+Game+Board+Storage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arlo2rqYWno/UtqjBD4H1nI/AAAAAAAACiM/1V7olGoofF0/s1600/Infarrantly+Creative+Game+Board+Storage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's one last art supplies idea. Also from <a href="http://ana-white.com/2011/09/flip-down-wall-art-desk-0" target="_blank">Ana White.</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khn3ewYEQg8/UtqkDYW-o8I/AAAAAAAACiY/urz8UziS57A/s1600/Ana+White+Art+Desk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khn3ewYEQg8/UtqkDYW-o8I/AAAAAAAACiY/urz8UziS57A/s1600/Ana+White+Art+Desk.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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And on to books!<br />
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The<a href="http://theardentsparrow.blogspot.it/2011/05/monday-design-inspiration-child.html" target="_blank"> Ardent Sparrow blog</a> has a good little round-up of some book storage ideas if you want some more ideas.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4wp9km33-s/UtqmLYQUNJI/AAAAAAAACik/dZ2EOXwPDGE/s1600/Ardent+Sparrow+Bookshelves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4wp9km33-s/UtqmLYQUNJI/AAAAAAAACik/dZ2EOXwPDGE/s1600/Ardent+Sparrow+Bookshelves.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Remember when we talked about utilizing your space wisely? This is such a good idea from <a href="http://www.onthebanksofsquawcreek.com/2011/07/storage-solution-childrens-books.html" target="_blank">On the Banks of Squaw Creek</a>! Be cautious if you have little climbers, though! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zpZpkLF9pLk/Utqqo9KJZDI/AAAAAAAACiw/JCSNPcIBqUg/s1600/On+the+Banks+of+Squaw+Creek+Dresser.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zpZpkLF9pLk/Utqqo9KJZDI/AAAAAAAACiw/JCSNPcIBqUg/s1600/On+the+Banks+of+Squaw+Creek+Dresser.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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This is adorable, so I had to include it. My kids would probably drag
that thing all over the place! But so cute! I originally got it from the
site Cory Conner Designs, but it looks like the site is no longer
functional. :(<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2DN0V0YcJI/UtqtuSgQhbI/AAAAAAAACi8/15x5IpPtfFE/s1600/Wagon+Bookshelf.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2DN0V0YcJI/UtqtuSgQhbI/AAAAAAAACi8/15x5IpPtfFE/s1600/Wagon+Bookshelf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This lovely pic is from <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/12691252@N08/4902318800/" target="_blank">Therese Hagstedt on Flickr</a>.
These shelves are called "spine" shelves, and you can find them on
Amazon for pretty cheap. Or it looks like a simple DIY. Looks like a
1x10 cut in 10" pieces and screwed to a 1x3, and the whole thing is
screwed to a stud in the wall. Not sure how much weight it would hold on
each shelf without a bracket, but you could add a bracket below each
shelf as well...<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bW67pVhuGmo/UtqviEyYOJI/AAAAAAAACjI/vTQG9z-R404/s1600/Spine+Bookshelf.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bW67pVhuGmo/UtqviEyYOJI/AAAAAAAACjI/vTQG9z-R404/s1600/Spine+Bookshelf.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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And if you prefer sewing vs. building, these book slings have also become pretty popular! This one is from Domestic Adventure.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCKrcFB9_hw/Utqx2cMX9sI/AAAAAAAACjU/7LZkHZL_R-s/s1600/Spearmint+Baby+Bookshelf+fabric.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCKrcFB9_hw/Utqx2cMX9sI/AAAAAAAACjU/7LZkHZL_R-s/s1600/Spearmint+Baby+Bookshelf+fabric.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Turn an Ikea bookshelf on its side, put some legs (or wheels) and a
cushion on it, and call it a day! Image from Better Homes and Gardens
via <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/diy-using-ikea-100376" target="_blank">Apartment Therapy.</a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uXWyay37jEA/UtqyXFBJBsI/AAAAAAAACjc/OvMqybOq8X0/s1600/Ikea+Shelf+as+Storage+Bench.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uXWyay37jEA/UtqyXFBJBsI/AAAAAAAACjc/OvMqybOq8X0/s1600/Ikea+Shelf+as+Storage+Bench.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's another one that I think is just beautiful, but I'm not sure
of the practicality for a kid's space. Perhaps if you need something
mobile? There's a good tutorial on <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/crafts/projects/diy-home-decor-crafts#slide-1" target="_blank">Country Living from Halligan Norris Smith</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLMY9nZv9LE/UtreDj9pQeI/AAAAAAAACjs/r7ZfQ8Twt08/s1600/Bookmobile+by+Halligan+Norris+Smith.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLMY9nZv9LE/UtreDj9pQeI/AAAAAAAACjs/r7ZfQ8Twt08/s1600/Bookmobile+by+Halligan+Norris+Smith.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Or bring the shelves up off the floor! Inspiration at <a href="http://homespuntoronto.blogspot.it/2011/02/soda-ya-like-crates-cool-storage-ideas.html" target="_blank">Homespun Toronto!</a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VE_Iop5b2XA/UtrgZ1Q9xwI/AAAAAAAACj4/YMV_G21mlcg/s1600/Storage+Crates+Home+Spun+Toronto.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VE_Iop5b2XA/UtrgZ1Q9xwI/AAAAAAAACj4/YMV_G21mlcg/s1600/Storage+Crates+Home+Spun+Toronto.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now on to paperwork and school!<br />
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Do you have some little artists in your house? Do you have a hard time
getting rid of thsie masterpieces? Maybe you'd feel more warm and fuzzy
if you did something like this and scanned the artwork and shrunk them
to fit in cute artwork?! This display is just gorgeous! Truly--I LOVE
this!! Visit <a href="http://www.jenthousandwords.com/2008/08/artwork-in-boys-room.html" target="_blank">Jen's Thousand Words</a> for more details on how she made them.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJTNvD400hE/UtriUpeQV1I/AAAAAAAACkE/IC1BzMsvI38/s1600/Picture+worth+Thousand+Words+Kids+art+display.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJTNvD400hE/UtriUpeQV1I/AAAAAAAACkE/IC1BzMsvI38/s1600/Picture+worth+Thousand+Words+Kids+art+display.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Need some tips on going through school paperwork? Click on over to get some ideas from <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.it/2010/11/school-paperwork-storage.html" target="_blank">I Heart Organizing.</a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGFSg_kaT34/UtrjlKpkApI/AAAAAAAACkQ/dBm81slacqA/s1600/I+heart+organizing+School+papers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGFSg_kaT34/UtrjlKpkApI/AAAAAAAACkQ/dBm81slacqA/s1600/I+heart+organizing+School+papers.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Or visit these cute "command center" boards from <a href="http://blog.delightfulorder.com/2011/09/childrens-homeworkmessage-center.html" target="_blank">Delightful Order</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK08_ZGBLpY/Utr3vvMGhkI/AAAAAAAACkg/kBWrmJhbP-E/s1600/Delightful+Order+Kids+Command+Centers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK08_ZGBLpY/Utr3vvMGhkI/AAAAAAAACkg/kBWrmJhbP-E/s1600/Delightful+Order+Kids+Command+Centers.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And these chore charts were purchased from an Etsy shop, but I LOVE the idea of using magnets for chores! More great pics at <a href="http://theclayfamilyblog.blogspot.it/2011/03/kitchen-command-center-finally.html" target="_blank">The Clay Family blog</a>.
We've done sticker charts, and I get pretty sick of getting the
stickers down for every little thing. I like that they could do this all
on their own!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w0VlFHeL1oY/Utr5I1KFkxI/AAAAAAAACks/g15DG_AwboY/s1600/Clay+Family+Magnet+Chore+Charts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w0VlFHeL1oY/Utr5I1KFkxI/AAAAAAAACks/g15DG_AwboY/s1600/Clay+Family+Magnet+Chore+Charts.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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And if you're really looking to maximize kids' space, I recommend
looking UP! Kids are so small. Do they really need 8' ceilings? Nah.
Consider building in play areas or bunk beds if you live in a home and
area that will almost always attract families (for resell
consideration).<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zm-d8OOTBC8/UtsVmjy6WuI/AAAAAAAACk8/4yv80vUax38/s1600/Bunk+room.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zm-d8OOTBC8/UtsVmjy6WuI/AAAAAAAACk8/4yv80vUax38/s1600/Bunk+room.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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And I really love this one from designer Erica-Lynn Huberty featured on Apartment Therapy.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eDAOFAXl-c/UtsW4UIo1sI/AAAAAAAAClI/KtzwQCuV1Rk/s1600/Playhouse+bedroom+Apartment+Therapy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eDAOFAXl-c/UtsW4UIo1sI/AAAAAAAAClI/KtzwQCuV1Rk/s1600/Playhouse+bedroom+Apartment+Therapy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And with three girls, I have to talk about hair stuff, right?<br />
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Here's how we organize our stuff:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3lRTY8sNFKg/UtsXeeqnxaI/AAAAAAAAClY/lAKgCoff-v4/s1600/Hair+Stuff.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3lRTY8sNFKg/UtsXeeqnxaI/AAAAAAAAClY/lAKgCoff-v4/s1600/Hair+Stuff.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And all our pretty clips go on this fun DIY project.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rq-HW43VFkA/UtsXewpmJ-I/AAAAAAAAClU/od0LSIRT8EA/s1600/Hair+clip+storage+diy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rq-HW43VFkA/UtsXewpmJ-I/AAAAAAAAClU/od0LSIRT8EA/s1600/Hair+clip+storage+diy.jpg" width="526" /></a></div>
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Or if you have some cupboard space in your bathroom, a simple tension
rod, some clips, and some zip-top bags are an easy storage solution!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUtMYLs4X50/UtsY93R7n-I/AAAAAAAAClk/LvnFzNBUSz0/s1600/Plastic+Bags+clipped.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="415" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUtMYLs4X50/UtsY93R7n-I/AAAAAAAAClk/LvnFzNBUSz0/s1600/Plastic+Bags+clipped.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
And here are just a couple little tips from me that work well in our house that I thought might also help you!<br />
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Do your kids make a huge mess of their dresser drawers trying to find
matching pj tops and bottoms? Or do they just end up wearing mismatched
pj's instead? My kids used to just wear mismatched pj's, but maybe I'm a
little OCD because it kind of bugged me. Nevermind the fact that I wear
sweats and "paint shirts" to drop them off to school every day... But I
just like it better when they match!<br />
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So here's what the good doctor came up with as a solution (he's brilliant, people!): <br />
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Folding pj tops and bottoms together! Duh!! This makes it so easy for the kids to just grab a pair and go!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DW8WPkRHmTE/TxhGL2J8JjI/AAAAAAAABfM/aL9kyU0miio/s1600/Fold+Pajama+tops+and+bottoms+together+attempting+aloha.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DW8WPkRHmTE/TxhGL2J8JjI/AAAAAAAABfM/aL9kyU0miio/s640/Fold+Pajama+tops+and+bottoms+together+attempting+aloha.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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And my next tip is another simple one. AND it also involves clothes. <br />
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With three girls (3, 5, 7), we have lots of clothing rotations and
hand-me-downs going on around here. I used to have some stored in boxes,
some in plastic tubs, and lots that didn't really fit, but I just kept
them in their drawers was such a tedious process. I hated "wasting
space" if one of those plastic bins wasn't completely full with one
size, so there was lots of combining and mixing of sizes, and it was
just a disaster. <br />
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When we made this last move (and after I emptied every single box and
put our house together in 6 days), I decided it was TIME to do something
about the clothing chaos.<br />
<br />
I emptied every single bin and box we had into a huge pile in the middle of the toy room. YIKES!!<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5XHsARFjo0/TxhmWNiCRiI/AAAAAAAABf8/2qGKECUz218/s1600/Kids+playroom+before.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nfa="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5XHsARFjo0/TxhmWNiCRiI/AAAAAAAABf8/2qGKECUz218/s640/Kids+playroom+before.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
I had purchased some of these comforter storage bags from the Dollar
Tree, and I decided to see if they might work for clothes. When I put
the first few items in, I thought, "There's NO WAY all these clothes are
going to fit in here!" But I stuck it out and kept squishing and
cramming, and I was amazed at how much actually fit in them. Unlike the
big plastic bins, since these are smaller, and the zipper only opens
half way, it compresses a lot of the air out, so you have a nice, tight
fit. Like those vacuum bags...but no vacuum.<br />
<br />
Every single bag, I thought the same thing, "There's no way these are going to fit." But they did!<br />
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<br />
So I ended up using 10 of the storage bags. Grand total of $10.<br />
<br />
UPDATE: I've had many readers tell me their Dollar Tree doesn't carry this item. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000ZU2XU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0000ZU2XU&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=4aa69d56dbb50f198f8fce2e14198a64" target="_blank">I've found a similar one on Amazon</a> that I'm sure will work just as well.<br />
<br />
Here are a few things I love about them:<br />
<br />
* Since a lot of the air is squished out, it saves lots of space vs the bins<br />
<br />
* Since they're smaller sizes, I can give each clothing size its own bag
and not feel guilty about "wasting" space in a plastic bin.<br />
<br />
* I can SEE the clothes! I considered putting labels on each bag for
the different sizes, but since I can see the clothes, I know exactly
what size is in it (after three kids wearing the exact same things and
washing them a gazillion times, I'm VERY famliar with every single item
of clothing in there)<br />
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* Again, since they're smaller, they're easier for me to move around, and I only have to take out one bag at a time!<br />
<br />
Here's how mine are separated (in case you care):<br />
1) 0-3 months<br />
2) 3-6 months<br />
3) 6-12 months<br />
4) 12-18 months<br />
5) 18-24 months<br />
6) 4T (our 2T, 3T, and 5T+ are all in use)<br />
7) Shoes<br />
8) Soft shoes and socks<br />
9) Winter coats and bibs<br />
10) Receiving blankets<br />
<br />
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<br />
These two stacks take up an area 40" wide x 28" tall x 18" deep. Not bad for 2,000,000 items! ;)<br />
<br />
If all else fails, just hide their messes with a cute curtain. ;)<br />
<br />
You can visit our playroom reading nook <a href="http://www.attemptingaloha.com/2011/10/playroom-reading-nook.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
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<br />
But be warned, sometimes it looks more like this:<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
Ha ha! <br />
<br />
<br />
And there you have it! Over 50 ideas to help get your littles organized.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for more organizational ideas, please visit my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/attemptingaloha/organization/" target="_blank">ORGANIZATION Pinterest Board.</a><br />
And for kid craft ideas, my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/attemptingaloha/kid-stuff/" target="_blank">KID STUFF Pinterest Board</a> is a great resource. :)<br />
<br />
Any other tips on how you keep your own kids organized? I'd love to hear in the comments!<br />
<br />
If you're looking for other organizational tips, check out these great posts:<br /><a href="http://homemadeville.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bathroom with HomeMadeville</a><br /><a href="http://condo-blues.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Garage with CondoBlues</a><br /><a href="http://muralmaker1.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maximizing Storage Space with Mural Maker</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks for visiting and aloha!<br />
<br />
CharlieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-15817008539301916892011-12-02T20:49:00.060-08:002021-04-19T09:36:29.174-07:00Possibly the Most Glamorous Hobby Horse Ever<div style="text-align: center;">
This post contains affiliate links</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Yeah, you read that right. Glamorous hobby horse. You may laugh, but take a look at this awesomeness:<br />
<br />
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<br />
Awwwww yeah! She's so pwetty. I wish I had some awesome pics taken
outside with a little tyke enjoying her new friend, but alas, this is a
Christmas gift, so these pics of the poor horse propped up with my feet
while I click away quickly (hiding upstairs while my daughter watches
Dora downstairs) will have to suffice. :)<br />
<br />
If you follow my blog, you might remember the hobby horse I linked to in my 25+ Gifts for Boys Round-up. That hobby horse by Dandee Designs really lit the fire for me. I was
hoping to find a cute girly hobby horse or unicorn or something and kept
browsing Pinterest and Google, and I found another good hobby horse
tutorial! This one is from Family Fun:<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hq01msdg_Pk/TtmVNHgVNuI/AAAAAAAABMA/di5bbdzwDLM/s1600/Hobby+horse+from+Family+Fun.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hq01msdg_Pk/TtmVNHgVNuI/AAAAAAAABMA/di5bbdzwDLM/s400/Hobby+horse+from+Family+Fun.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The two tutorials are pretty much identical, and while I like the
concept, the lazy mom in me kept saying, "I REALLY don't want to cut and
thread a million pieces of yarn!!" So I kept brainstorming for
something else to use as hair. What better way to get my creative
juices flowing than to clean!! Yippee!! (where's that sarcasm font when
I need it?)<br />
<br />
But this time it really worked! I picked up one of the 1500 feather boas
we have in our playroom and was like, "LIIIIIIGHT. BULB." (in my best
Gru voice) HAIR!!!<br />
<br />
So please feel free to use either Dandee's tutorial or the Family Fun one, and I'll fill you in on the differences I did. <br />
<br />
Supplies for my Girly Hobby Horse:<br />
<br />
<strong>-1 fluffy sock</strong> - These <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M33FFN1/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01M33FFN1&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=f9c8c406df2aa405416f059958e3b9f8" target="_blank">fuzzy socks found on Amazon</a> are less than $3 for a pair<br />
<strong>-Filling</strong> of some kind (I used an old pillow's guts)<br />
<strong>-Googley eyes</strong> - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XZTP9Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000XZTP9Y&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=463f014977e146935c26926abed3d89b" target="_blank">This multi-pack found on Amazon</a> is $5 for 120<br />
<strong>-Eyelashes</strong> (found at Dollar Tree in make-up section)<br />
<strong>-Glitter foam</strong> or felt for ears (found my glitter foam at Dollar Tree in craft section)<br />
<strong>-Hot glue</strong><br />
<strong>-Yarn</strong> (for nostrils, bridle, and to attach reigns)<br />
<strong>-Yarn needle</strong> - found mine at Walmart near yarn -- who knew? ;)<br />
<strong>-Regular needle</strong> and thread (to attach feather boa)<br />
<strong>-Feather boa</strong> - mine was about 60", and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UBPUIKQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00UBPUIKQ&linkCode=as2&tag=trave007-20&linkId=93961a668e314a8ca50c69d43247d969" target="_blank">This $2 one </a> found on Amazon is the cheapest one I've found<br />
<strong>-Wooden dowel</strong> (I used what I had on hand, and I think it's a bit small. I would recommend about 3/4" wide and cut it to 2.5' long)<br />
<strong>-Beaded necklace</strong> (Dollar Tree has a pack of 10 for $1)<br />
<br />
Like any obsessive crafter, I had all these supplies on hand except the
fluffy sock. Here's my fluffy sock. It looks sparkly. I've seen other
fluffy socks at the Dollar Tree, but this one is like snow. I love it.<br />
<br />
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Follow their directions and fill the end of the sock first. <br />
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<br />
Then thread your yarn needle and make a couple of nostrils.<br />
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<br />
I used the googley eyes and eyelashes from one of our two <a href="http://www.attemptingaloha.com/2011/10/glamingo-flamingo-girls-halloween.html">FLAMINGO COSTUMES</a>
since I knew they probably wouldn't be needing two of the costumes at
once again. One glamorous flamingo is sufficient. I also used the
glittery beak as the ears. I set my eyes back 5" from the front. My
first instinct was to have them set back farther, and no one really
explained where to put them. I decided to check with the "mane" on, and I
definitely needed more space for the coiffure.<br />
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<br />
Bust out your 5th grade skills and trace out some ears. Then cut them out and pray it doesn't look like a demented rabbit.<br />
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<br />
Pinch each ear together in the center and hot glue it. Don't glue too
far down the sides. You don't want it closed completely...just a nice
center crease.<br />
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<br />
Since the foam is stiffer than felt, I propped mine straight up and just
stitched straight through the foam and then went back down through the
sock. The fluffiness of the sock meant that I could be a little sloppy.
He he<br />
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Plus I knew the mane would be covering it...<br />
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<br />
I tried braiding a few pieces of yarn for the bridle but decided I liked
the simple elegance of four pieces of yarn next to each other. I
believe I started with 15" pieces and then trimmed down. I hot glued
them right to the sock (underneath the chin to keep it more hidden).<br />
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<br />
Make sure your lines are nice and straight and not crossed over each
other and then glue the second end on top of the first and cut your
ends, so they're nice and straight.<br />
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<br />
Our beaded necklace was 30" long once I cut it. And I just whip stitched
it right to the face. Don't be scared if she whinnies a little. Just
assure her that lots of women go under the knife for vanity's sake.
((cough cough))<br />
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<br />
I opted for the yarn to attach mine since I knew my kids would probably
be using the reigns to drag it around everywhere. I stitched between
beads 1&2, 2&3, and 3&4. <br />
<br />
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<br />
For the mane, I took one 60" feather boa and cut it in half. I laid the
two pieces next to each other and folded the one on the right down to
the right until the top side was almost lined up with the bottom.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
Then I took the piece on the left and also folded it down to the right
like a rainbow on top of the first piece. I made them cascade down, so
the top piece was the shortest, and it got longer from there.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhPVQj_JEYw/TtmpX7L__TI/AAAAAAAABMQ/TAnOEZpG8sE/s1600/Mane+C.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhPVQj_JEYw/TtmpX7L__TI/AAAAAAAABMQ/TAnOEZpG8sE/s400/Mane+C.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Then I pinched it at the top where the two pieces met and then whip
stitched that one spot right behind the ears. That way she can change
her hairstyle as she pleases. She's going for the "bangs in the eyes"
look today. ;)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LNsFrwehqjE/TtmRKMowsKI/AAAAAAAABLo/8gOsqhJpkjM/s1600/Girl+Hobby+Horse+tutorial+how+to+B.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LNsFrwehqjE/TtmRKMowsKI/AAAAAAAABLo/8gOsqhJpkjM/s640/Girl+Hobby+Horse+tutorial+how+to+B.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
And OF COURSE she needed a flower in her mane and a ribbon around her neck! <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOxO2ca_b5I/TtmP9XjnEyI/AAAAAAAABJw/Vo_Y_j9S1NU/s1600/Girl+Hobby+Horse+tutorial+how+to+D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOxO2ca_b5I/TtmP9XjnEyI/AAAAAAAABJw/Vo_Y_j9S1NU/s640/Girl+Hobby+Horse+tutorial+how+to+D.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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</div>I made this for my 2-year-old, but I'm debating whether or not to make
them for my older daughters as well...I think they might have just as
much fun as the little one! Plus now that I've got it down, they'll only
take me about 20 minutes ANNND I've got that one lonely sock laying
around now...<br />
<br />
I think the fact that her mane is a feather boa might also qualify her
as part pegasus. So magical powers are sure to be part of this horsey's
future...<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
CharlieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-37428876536000139182011-11-19T06:14:00.037-08:002021-04-19T09:53:29.964-07:00DIY Canopy Doll Bed - It's Done! <p> Aloha!</p>
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBuyBvFE9vQ/Tse2stYrcGI/AAAAAAAABFE/8-MwRLvGGIE/s1600/how+to+make+Canopy+doll+bed+plans+and+tutorial.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBuyBvFE9vQ/Tse2stYrcGI/AAAAAAAABFE/8-MwRLvGGIE/s640/how+to+make+Canopy+doll+bed+plans+and+tutorial.jpg" width="632" /></a></div>
<br />
Those of you who follow me on Facebook already know that I've been
working on a doll canopy bed for my oldest daughter. I'm making each of
them a doll bed and intended to use the plans for <a href="http://ana-white.com/2010/11/doll-farmhouse-bed" target="_blank">Ana White's farmhouse doll bed</a> like this:<br />
<br />
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<img border="0" hda="true" height="499" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X_g9EXI2XTM/TsbPo2i1pRI/AAAAAAAABDs/1AYQaVFkA24/s640/Doll+bed+farmhouse+ana+white.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
At first, I was just going to do three of the exact same bed (I have
three girls), but my 2-year-old caught me looking at plans and saw this
bed as well as Ana's doll crib, and she BEGGED for the crib. So then I
was committed to doing a crib for her. THEN I fell in love with Ana's
bunk bed plans and wanted to try that for the "middle child". But I knew
if I did the bunk and the crib, then my oldest would feel like her bed
was kinda plain. Don't get me wrong, the farmhouse bed is fab! But my
girls are a little glam. They like frills and ruffles. <br />
<br />
So I scoured the online pages of PB Kids, and I found this:<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdFwjSi2Wq0/TsbSt4qUqSI/AAAAAAAABD0/o6Br2G5tnHs/s1600/PBK+Madeline+Bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="440" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdFwjSi2Wq0/TsbSt4qUqSI/AAAAAAAABD0/o6Br2G5tnHs/s640/PBK+Madeline+Bed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Perfect! I used Ana's farmhouse plans as kind of a guideline.<br />
<br />
Here's my lumber all ready to go (that pile also included lumber for the bunk bed and the crib). <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-91reHzdBC78/TsbTmkXDs6I/AAAAAAAABD8/h_Na6jI3rMo/s1600/Doll+Bed+O.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-91reHzdBC78/TsbTmkXDs6I/AAAAAAAABD8/h_Na6jI3rMo/s640/Doll+Bed+O.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Ana's plans are for American Girl dolls, but my kids really love stuffed
animals. My daughter got this Hello Kitty from Build-a-Bear for her
birthday, so she was my model here. Turns out she's about the same size
as the American Dolls (18"). <br />
<br />
If you remember, we left our circular saw in Hawaii (and I have yet to
fork out the cash for a miter saw), so I was left using the stupid
jigsaw we got at the pawn shop when we arrived here. It works fine, but a
jigsaw is NOT the tool you want to be using for straight, nice cuts.
Blah. It was perfect for the headboard and footboard, though! Lucky for
you, you can just have the Lowe's guy cut it all for you there at the
store...I still wasn't sure of the sizes, so I left mine long and had to
cut them myself.<br />
<br />
Purchase list:<br />
1x6 (1 at 8' long) - $5.50<br />
2x2 furring strip (1 at 8' long) - $1.38<br />
1x2 furring strip (1 at 8' long) - $.98<br />
1x3 furring strip (1 at 8' long) - $1.58<br />
Finials (optional) - $2.00 for 4 at Hobby Lobby<br />
Decorative piece on headboard - $2.00 for 2 at Hobby Lobby<br />
Screws, brad nails, Gorilla Glue<br />
<br />
Total - about $13.50 <br />
<br />
That's to do one. You will have lots of left-over lumber, so you could
easily do 2 with this amount of wood. You'd just need to purchase
another $.98 1x2 and more finials.<br />
<br />
Cut list:<br />
<br />
2x2 - cut 4 pieces @ 18" each<br />
1x6 - cut 2 pieces @ 9.5" each<br />
1x3 - cut 2 pieces @ 18" each<br />
1x2 - cut 2 pieces @ 9.5" each, 2 pieces at 18" each, and 2 or 3
(depending on how many slats you want on the bottom of the bed--I
recommend 3) at 10" each<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3B7ALoU7wA/TsbTpvST0wI/AAAAAAAABEE/5vWtsWb2y5E/s1600/Doll+Bed+N.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3B7ALoU7wA/TsbTpvST0wI/AAAAAAAABEE/5vWtsWb2y5E/s640/Doll+Bed+N.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
For the headboard and footboard, I just penciled in on the 1x6 (that you
should have had cut to 9.5" each) how I wanted the design to look. You
can change it up, of course, but this is a classic look. And this is
where the jigsaw actually proved useful!<br />
<br />
To make the headboard appear bigger than the footboard (without
purchasing a 1x8 or 1x10), I simply placed it higher up on the legs than
the footboard. The headboard should be up 5" from the bottom, and the
footboard is up 3" from bottom. So this piece shown is the headboard. I
should have taken a side-by-side comparison of the two, but oh well. You
get it, right?<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HasK_DW7UKo/TsbTsvJ9oxI/AAAAAAAABEM/u3WueI0A4Os/s1600/Doll+Bed+M.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HasK_DW7UKo/TsbTsvJ9oxI/AAAAAAAABEM/u3WueI0A4Os/s640/Doll+Bed+M.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
This was done at about 1:00 in the morning, so pics were the last thing
on my mind. I wish I had taken one of the base (center that you attach
the headboard and footboard to), but Ana's plans are excellent. Look at
step 10 for reference. The sides on this one are the 1x3's cut at 18",
and the head and foot (and center) are the 1x2's cut at 10".<br />
<br />
Once the headboard, footboard, and base are all finished, put them
together. I placed mine up 3" from bottom of the legs, so it's flush
with the bottom of the footboard. You now have a four-poster bed!<br />
<br />
To get the canopy look, take your last four 1x2's and put them across
the front, back, and sides right at the top (flush with the top of the
legs). My furring strips split, so I ended up using Gorilla Glue to try
to patch it back together. What a mess. Blah! <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-acTtB-LEdTk/TsbTxpknqLI/AAAAAAAABEU/16VUCL626lU/s1600/Doll+bed+K.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-acTtB-LEdTk/TsbTxpknqLI/AAAAAAAABEU/16VUCL626lU/s640/Doll+bed+K.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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</div>
<br />
Every time I go to Lowes or HD, I always check the Oops! paint section
to see if there's anything I like. I got lucky and found this awesome
gray quart that was marked to $2.50! I wanted all white bedding and knew
a gray bed would be the perfect match. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTngiGPfv6E/TsbT6L5E5DI/AAAAAAAABEk/Dkpg1DXrzXU/s1600/Doll+bed+L.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTngiGPfv6E/TsbT6L5E5DI/AAAAAAAABEk/Dkpg1DXrzXU/s640/Doll+bed+L.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll share tutorials for the mattress and bedding later, but I had SO
much fun making them. Anyone who's just starting to sew should really
consider making doll bedding or doll clothes. They don't use much
material (and you can use cheap stuff), and it gives you great practice!<br />
<br />
Here's the headboard detail I Gorilla Glued on.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6tO8ZNCwgY/Tsezo1FNTvI/AAAAAAAABEs/biO4FD5Zcqs/s1600/Doll+canopy+bed+how+to+headboard.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6tO8ZNCwgY/Tsezo1FNTvI/AAAAAAAABEs/biO4FD5Zcqs/s640/Doll+canopy+bed+how+to+headboard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's a view of the headboard and footboard cut-outs. Can you tell the
headboard is raised higher than the footboard? That's the kids'
Christmas tree in the background. They get their own tree in their room.
We're that nuts.<br />
<br />
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<br />
You might also notice the round finials aren't in this pic. I'm still
not 100% sold on them. I'm trying to find the perfect crystal doorknobs
at the perfect price. I'd like to try those before settling on anything.
So the finials have been painted but not attached.<br />
<br />
Here's a pic with my 2-year-old, so you can see the size of it:<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSwrsLds3Os/Tse1vFGL8CI/AAAAAAAABE8/_KP3p5aEd9Y/s1600/Canopy+doll+bed+tutorial+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSwrsLds3Os/Tse1vFGL8CI/AAAAAAAABE8/_KP3p5aEd9Y/s640/Canopy+doll+bed+tutorial+plans.jpg" width="490" /></a></div>
<br />
She's an independent two, people. She dresses herself.<br />
<br />
Doesn't the little jelly roll pillow just melt you? <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jyiRx0rqukk/Tse30wLfAjI/AAAAAAAABFM/0Sv9euJ3ckU/s1600/How+to+make+a+canopy+doll+bed+tutorial+diy+plans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jyiRx0rqukk/Tse30wLfAjI/AAAAAAAABFM/0Sv9euJ3ckU/s640/How+to+make+a+canopy+doll+bed+tutorial+diy+plans.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I had way too much fun making the bedding. The shams on the pillows are removable, as is the tulle on the jelly roll pillow. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtK2f-v0fNU/Tse48V8Yw_I/AAAAAAAABFU/Uey9y_Qbf50/s1600/How+to+make+a+doll+canopy+bed+plans+tutorial.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtK2f-v0fNU/Tse48V8Yw_I/AAAAAAAABFU/Uey9y_Qbf50/s640/How+to+make+a+doll+canopy+bed+plans+tutorial.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And the best part? The jelly roll pillow and curtains are made from my
wedding dress. Awwww. Remember when I ripped it up for pillows?
Yeah...tons left over still.<br />
<br />
Ok, so I wasn't sure if people would actually be ready to build a bed
like this, so I didn't bother making a PDF of the headboard and
footboard. But let me know if you're interested! If enough people want
it, I'll put it up. :)<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">UPDATE:</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>The PDF is up!<a href="http://attemptingaloha.blogspot.com/2011/11/canopy-doll-bed-headboard-printable.html"> </a><a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B38rncNBMqeKQnYzZEx3NHQ0bG8" target="_blank">HERE is a link for the headboard/footboard printable</a>!<br />
<br />
What do you think? <br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
CharlieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-17003007759861886312011-10-28T10:59:00.024-07:002021-04-19T09:55:03.624-07:00Playroom Reading Nook <p> Aloha!</p>
<br />
I finished the kids' playroom reading nook. It was fun for me to put it
together, and it ended up using all different kinds of crafts in the
process. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LLm6fCDDx00/Tqm0BK-LxjI/AAAAAAAAA48/I__BWR1lMoU/s1600/Kids+playroom+reading+nook+how+to+bean+bag+tutorial.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LLm6fCDDx00/Tqm0BK-LxjI/AAAAAAAAA48/I__BWR1lMoU/s640/Kids+playroom+reading+nook+how+to+bean+bag+tutorial.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
The READ sign is a play off of Robert Indiana's famous LOVE sign. Also
famously replicated in Pottery Barn's Christmas NOEL sign (that retails
for $150!!). I'll give more details on that, the curtain, and the
beanbags in upcoming posts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HhAswjjtiuo/TqnPODl37WI/AAAAAAAAA5E/nCV8zUKGXSw/s1600/READ+sign+like+robert+indiana+love+sign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HhAswjjtiuo/TqnPODl37WI/AAAAAAAAA5E/nCV8zUKGXSw/s640/READ+sign+like+robert+indiana+love+sign.jpg" width="362" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jyQUru4cLh4/TqnS05unvkI/AAAAAAAAA5U/BQhx1yrW3NM/s1600/Reading+Nook+Kids+playroom+how+to+tutorial+curtain+diy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jyQUru4cLh4/TqnS05unvkI/AAAAAAAAA5U/BQhx1yrW3NM/s640/Reading+Nook+Kids+playroom+how+to+tutorial+curtain+diy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
You might recognize my DIY Wire Basket as well as the Pleated Basket Liner and the Pottery Barn Kids Lamp Knock-off. :)<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S39uG_dY5R4/TqnXfgCK1QI/AAAAAAAAA5k/XaMcOFGQohA/s1600/Kids+playroom+reading+nook+how+to+bean+bag+tutorial+aloha.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S39uG_dY5R4/TqnXfgCK1QI/AAAAAAAAA5k/XaMcOFGQohA/s640/Kids+playroom+reading+nook+how+to+bean+bag+tutorial+aloha.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkJrVmdVjYU/TqnXhAW_8jI/AAAAAAAAA5s/r1RXhbxvuL4/s1600/Kids+Reading+Nook+Books+Bean+Bag+How+to+tutorial+diy+A+watermark.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ida="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkJrVmdVjYU/TqnXhAW_8jI/AAAAAAAAA5s/r1RXhbxvuL4/s640/Kids+Reading+Nook+Books+Bean+Bag+How+to+tutorial+diy+A+watermark.jpg" width="438" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What
do you think?! I'll be thrilled even if I come in third. It was a great
competition, and my girls just LOVE their new playroom. We've still got
a few more things to finish up on it, but it's such a great space now!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Aloha,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Charlie</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-28020998496685158162011-10-07T05:04:00.043-07:002021-04-19T05:25:12.130-07:00Glamorous Flamingo Halloween Costume - Free Printable <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqoPA7esquA/To3l-6Jx-2I/AAAAAAAAA1Y/5KQ0o6kRAfU/s1600/Glamingo+flamingo+costume+DIY+how+to+homemade+halloween+girls+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kca="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dqoPA7esquA/To3l-6Jx-2I/AAAAAAAAA1Y/5KQ0o6kRAfU/s640/Glamingo+flamingo+costume+DIY+how+to+homemade+halloween+girls+B.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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I checked out an old Martha Stewart Halloween DVD from the library a
couple weeks ago, and my 2-year-old fell in love with a chicken costume.
But (of course), she wanted to be pink! The original costume had a
shirt sewn to a onesie and then stuffed with cotton to make it extra
fluffy. The poor girl looked a little uncomfortable, and I thought it
would probably suffice to just do feathers and skip the stuffing part
(and would also allow my child to breathe better)! I'm also extra cheap
and didn't want to ruin a shirt. :) I simplified it by just safety
pinning on 2 feather boas to a shirt we had on-hand. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--CWm4O5-N7A/To3-5lGmMCI/AAAAAAAAA1c/h6S0KW5qlfw/s320/Martha+Stewart+Chicken+Costume.jpg" width="256" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Martha Stewart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The hat was cute, but not really appropriate for our flamingo, and I was
worried my kids would get too hot, and masks aren't allowed at their
school. So, it took some serious brain-storming as to how I was going to
make a face. After browsing around Dollar Tree, I found an ugly parrot
visor head thingie (technical term I'm sure), and knew I could make a
cute flamingo (aka "pink chicken") using the same concept. We also
skipped the somewhat cheesy feet for practical purposes. While they look
cute for a photo shoot, I'm not sure my 2-year-old is agile enough to
walk around with rubber gloves on her feet for hours...<br />
<br />
Here are my supplies:<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
I found everything that I needed at the Dollar Tree. I already had hot
glue, scissors, safety pins, and a long-sleeved shirt on hand.<br />
<br />
<strong>Shirt</strong><br />
<strong>Safety pins</strong><br />
<strong>2-3 feather boas</strong> (depends on how fluffy you want it and how big your child is)<br />
<strong>Googley eyes</strong> (I got a variety pack with extra large ones)<br />
<strong>Glitter foam paper</strong> (they have non-glitter as well, and
that would save $$ if you have more than one child since there are more
than one sheet per color...but mine wanted glitter and pink, so I forked
out the big $$ and bought a pack for each child)<br />
<strong>Foam visor</strong> (these come in a 3-pack)<br />
<strong>Template</strong><br />
<br />
Optional:<br />
<strong>Fake eyelashes</strong> (found in the make-up section...obviously optional but definitely makes her "Glamingo")<br />
<strong>Tights </strong>(They didn't have pink in the little one's size, so we went ahead with black. My older two girls have pink.)<br />
<strong>Skirt </strong>(our shirt was extra long for my 2-year-old, so
the tights were enough to do the job, but my older girls will be wearing
tulle skirts with theirs)<br />
<br />
<br />
Total cost for Glamingo the Flamingo is about $5-8 for one and less (per
costume) for more since you'll only need one pack of googley eyes,
glitter foam paper, etc. <br />
<br />
<strong>STEP 1: </strong>Print your templates and cut them out<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<strong>STEP 2: </strong>Cut out your glitter foam shapes and trim the
visor down. The lines in the "face" piece need to be slit to allow the
beak to be attached.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<strong>STEP 3: </strong>Fold the black tip of the beak in half and glue
the front edge together. Be sure not to glue all the way around. Leave
the back part open like so:<br />
<br />
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</div>
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<br />
<strong>STEP 4:</strong> Fold the pink part of the beak in half just to
get a crease, and then glue across the straight edge and attach to the
black beak tip.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHnhf3_KDcw/To4J3Fi0tDI/AAAAAAAAA14/t2W6ijbOw4Q/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHnhf3_KDcw/To4J3Fi0tDI/AAAAAAAAA14/t2W6ijbOw4Q/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+E.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bH9wSmnvcPQ/To4N8E1jJNI/AAAAAAAAA2E/7tJ1zctXnv8/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+beak+diy+free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" kca="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bH9wSmnvcPQ/To4N8E1jJNI/AAAAAAAAA2E/7tJ1zctXnv8/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+beak+diy+free.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<strong>STEP 5: </strong>Line up the visor and the face so the centers
are aligned. Then glue each of the tabs to the bottom of the visor (I
found it easier to do the center two first and then the outter two after
those were set).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COk9QLX43g0/To4PM-WkjHI/AAAAAAAAA2I/vFQwi8E0Nm4/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+G.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COk9QLX43g0/To4PM-WkjHI/AAAAAAAAA2I/vFQwi8E0Nm4/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+G.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
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<br />
<strong>STEP 6: </strong>Stick the three beak tabs into the three slots
on the face, put glue on the tabs, and glue them up (you can see the
underside of my beak is purple in the second pic).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucNrNJ4rGdU/To4P5jTffbI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/mTemzBnRyKA/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+J.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucNrNJ4rGdU/To4P5jTffbI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/mTemzBnRyKA/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+J.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
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<br />
<strong>STEP 7:</strong> Secure the beak to the visor, so it's not
flopping around. I just added a drop of glue to the end and then another
one on each of the two sides of the beak.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QpoIohEplFM/To4QZrlZgeI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/2hh-krtnnbQ/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+L.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kca="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QpoIohEplFM/To4QZrlZgeI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/2hh-krtnnbQ/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+L.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQksb96rLno/To4QbuuRRkI/AAAAAAAAA2c/r_nbVdVpSro/s1600/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+M.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQksb96rLno/To4QbuuRRkI/AAAAAAAAA2c/r_nbVdVpSro/s400/How+to+make+a+flamingo+costume+homemade+DIY+printable+free+M.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong>STEP 8: </strong>Glamorize! I found it easiest to add the
eyelashes to the eyes before putting the eyes on. That way you can
control which way your eyelashes go. It's harder to get the two sides
(eyelashes) even when they're already on the face. <br />
<br />
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<br />
I didn't snap any pics of pinning the feather boas on. It was pretty
much just trial and error. I wrapped it around like a regular boa and
went from there. Be sure to keep it loose and drapey, so your little one
can pull it on and off their head. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eb3FTJTrQbs/To4X9zQLFaI/AAAAAAAAA2o/A2h7bIR9zus/s1600/Glamingo+the+flamingo+costume+diy+halloween+girls+how+to+printable+free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kca="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eb3FTJTrQbs/To4X9zQLFaI/AAAAAAAAA2o/A2h7bIR9zus/s640/Glamingo+the+flamingo+costume+diy+halloween+girls+how+to+printable+free.jpg" width="454" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Definitely the cutest, cheapest, easiest costume I've ever made!<br />
<br />
As always, I just ask that you share the aloha by becoming a follower if you use one of my PDF's. Mahalo!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B38rncNBMqeKVTQ3eWZRNUp0VFE" target="_blank">Click here for a link to the Google Doc pdf printable. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
<em>Charlie</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-27897813968945301162011-09-27T00:06:00.004-07:002021-04-19T09:56:14.883-07:00Halloween BINGO - Free Printable<p> Aloha!</p>
<br />
Today's post is a simple printable. Perfect for a Halloween party with younger kids who are still working on their numbers!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdtiRAd1l90/ToF0pHAjMWI/AAAAAAAAA0k/Yw3vjcgWWsE/s1600/Halloween+BINGO+free+printable+games+game+kids+party+Attempting+Aloha.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdtiRAd1l90/ToF0pHAjMWI/AAAAAAAAA0k/Yw3vjcgWWsE/s640/Halloween+BINGO+free+printable+games+game+kids+party+Attempting+Aloha.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There are 10 different, unique BINGO cards. You'll need to plan for more
than one winner if you need to make duplicates for parties of more than
10. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B38rncNBMqeKWHIwX1BkSU9ldTg" target="_blank">Click here to be taken to the Google Doc pdf printable.</a><br />
<br />
It's not a requirement to download, but it would show true aloha if you
followed Attempting Aloha if this printable is helpful to you. :) And
I'd love to hear how they work out for you or where you used them!<br />
<br />
To give credit where credit is due, I did not create the cliparts used.
They are from various sites, including www.halloweenclipart.com. They
have some really cute ones that aren't <em>TOO</em> creepy...my girls aren't into spooky and gruesome. We're more into cutesy, fluffy Halloween. Ha!<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
<em>Charlie</em><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-50820957386791522182011-09-23T20:19:00.042-07:002021-04-19T09:58:13.226-07:00DIY Ruffled Clutch and Printing on Fabric<p> Aloha!</p>
<br />
Today I'm going to show you a little project I did for my daughter's
teacher and teacher's assistant last spring for Teacher Appreciation
Day. Yes, I'm a slacker and am just now getting around to it. Cut me
some slack...it's been a rough few months.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VfLGjQhFdTk/TnzGhAGrMNI/AAAAAAAAAzw/d3yDirCInO4/s1600/how+to+make+a+ruffled+clutch+tutorial+diy+zippered+Printing+on+fabric+red.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="582" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VfLGjQhFdTk/TnzGhAGrMNI/AAAAAAAAAzw/d3yDirCInO4/s640/how+to+make+a+ruffled+clutch+tutorial+diy+zippered+Printing+on+fabric+red.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I wanted to make them some clutches, but I couldn't find any fabric that
had to do with teachers but didn't have apples or chalkboards all over
it (sorry if that's you're thing...). I'd seen <a href="http://thriftyparsonageliving.blogspot.com/2010/03/pottery-barn-inspired-pillow.html" target="_blank">Joy's tutorial at Thrifty Parsonage Living</a> on printing on fabric and thought it might be fun to design my own fabric for their clutches.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-exnHWpvXQ1k/TnzGj0pJccI/AAAAAAAAAz0/OVy66nvXffo/s1600/A+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+C.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-exnHWpvXQ1k/TnzGj0pJccI/AAAAAAAAAz0/OVy66nvXffo/s400/A+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+C.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This is what I came up with. It's feminine, has a touch of red, and has
words pertaining to teachers written all over it (Similar to my Teacher
Appreciation Clock). I REALLY wish I could tell you that I'm going to
include a printable for you, but, alas, the computer I created that on
bit the dust, and the hard drive is completely unrecoverable. It may
have contributed largely to my recent case of Blogging Blues (along with
the other hundreds of before and after home pics and files for Fancy
Nancy Bingo and other fun party favors). :( Serious sad face.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oxQcj-TjkFI/TnzGlHhwkUI/AAAAAAAAAz4/IEs9roAmSEY/s1600/B+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer+C.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oxQcj-TjkFI/TnzGlHhwkUI/AAAAAAAAAz4/IEs9roAmSEY/s640/B+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer+C.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
But printing was simple. <br />
<br />
STEP 1: Cut out a piece of Freezer Paper (found in grocery store by ZipLoc bags and aluminum foil) to 8.5x11 paper dimension.<br />
<br />
STEP 2: Iron the shiny side of the freezer paper to the wrong side of
your fabric. I used drop cloth, so there wasn't really a right/wrong
side.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-quInSGV-T_M/TnzGmZUCvCI/AAAAAAAAAz8/pqXqOpZs8C0/s1600/C+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer+B.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-quInSGV-T_M/TnzGmZUCvCI/AAAAAAAAAz8/pqXqOpZs8C0/s400/C+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer+B.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 3: Trim your fabric edges, so it is exactly the 8.5"x11" piece of paper dimension.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSaOrw7Y0Ek/TnzGnX4iziI/AAAAAAAAA0A/T-UCxQ3MMwY/s1600/D+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSaOrw7Y0Ek/TnzGnX4iziI/AAAAAAAAA0A/T-UCxQ3MMwY/s400/D+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+freezer.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 4: Place in printer, so it will print on the actual fabric. This is
the tricky part. I have a Canon all-in-one printer that has a tray down
below, and printing did not work when I tried to use that tray. It kept
getting sucked in wrong and writing all crooked or starting half-way
down the page. Luckily it also has a top-tray feed for awkward paper
like this one, and it worked beautifully.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQQnkeG4pOc/TnzGotjPcKI/AAAAAAAAA0E/S0QzV5VvQLA/s1600/E+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+B.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQQnkeG4pOc/TnzGotjPcKI/AAAAAAAAA0E/S0QzV5VvQLA/s400/E+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+B.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 5: Remove the freezer paper. It's like a giant sticker that doesn't leave gunk all over your fabric. Sweet. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--T_jAKa1_Yk/TnzGpgCR01I/AAAAAAAAA0I/VyoftwvIQlE/s1600/F+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+a.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--T_jAKa1_Yk/TnzGpgCR01I/AAAAAAAAA0I/VyoftwvIQlE/s400/F+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print+a.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Now for the ruffled clutch part.<br />
<br />
I used tutorial from Skip to My Lou for
the pouch part. And I'm embarrassed to tell you I didn't take ONE pic
of the lining! I used a fabulous silky red material that had kind of an
Asian feel to it. It was the perfect accent. <br />
<br />
My only variation on the tutorial was to add the ruffles to the front, so I'll give a little recap of that.<br />
<br />
STEP 1: Cut your 8.5" x 11" piece into strips. The width will depend on
how many you want and how big you choose to make your clutch. As you can
see in the pic above, I did 5 even strips that were 1.5" wide and the
full 11" long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mb_qIos-63Q/TnzGqgBmkQI/AAAAAAAAA0M/wHzF723-ja0/s1600/G+ruffles+how+to+sew.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mb_qIos-63Q/TnzGqgBmkQI/AAAAAAAAA0M/wHzF723-ja0/s400/G+ruffles+how+to+sew.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 2: Since I'm not very good at pinning my sewing projects, I folded
the edge over slightly and ironed it to prep for sewing. This is just to
keep you from having a raw edge since the drop cloth frays really bad.
If you're using a different fabric and like the frayed look, by all
means, skip this step. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aSomjFXKqfQ/TnzGsdteggI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/e8ZbgyJorec/s1600/H+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aSomjFXKqfQ/TnzGsdteggI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/e8ZbgyJorec/s400/H+printing+on+fabric+how+to+diy+red+writing+tutorial+print.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 3: Sew that folded edge in place and do that to all of your "ruffle" strips.<br />
<br />
STEP 4: Ruffle each of your strips. You can do this on any old sewing machine with your standard foot. I did a tutorial for you. Instead of doing it up the center, ruffle along the top edge
(not the edge you just sewed over). Then play with the width until it
matches the width of the clutch pieces you should have already cut out
(again referring to the Skip to My Lou tutorial...I have not included
instructions for that here since I'm lazy and see no need to reinvent
the wheel. ;) ).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAd6u83R2F4/TnzGt2oAiBI/AAAAAAAAA0U/VcvYte4TJfM/s1600/I+sewing+zippered+ruffled+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+make.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAd6u83R2F4/TnzGt2oAiBI/AAAAAAAAA0U/VcvYte4TJfM/s400/I+sewing+zippered+ruffled+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+make.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 5: Sew each of your ruffle strips to the front piece of your
pouch/clutch. I only did this to one side of mine (refer to last comment
about being lazy and all).<br />
<br />
As you can see, once I got four strips on and started thinking about
seam allowance and having left a gap at top, so it wouldn't interfere
with the zipper...I decided to just leave it at four ruffle strips
instead of five.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z15ziDmZkL8/TnzGv0E2lzI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/eD8LuFC_ZF4/s1600/J+zippered+ruffle+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+red+writing+fabric.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z15ziDmZkL8/TnzGv0E2lzI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/eD8LuFC_ZF4/s320/J+zippered+ruffle+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+red+writing+fabric.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
STEP 6: Now follow the Skip to My Lou tutorial to finish off your
clutch. You'll need to be extra cautious with your ruffles and make sure
they're not getting caught in your seams or sticking out sideways. Make
sure they're flat and just how you want them as you're sewing near them
(they will be inside out, so it's hard to tell where they are).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jGrrWJy-qro/TnzGwuam8vI/AAAAAAAAA0c/8GUYjaaG_jQ/s1600/K+diy+ruffles+clutch+how+to+make+zippered+tutorial+red+writing+fabric.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jGrrWJy-qro/TnzGwuam8vI/AAAAAAAAA0c/8GUYjaaG_jQ/s400/K+diy+ruffles+clutch+how+to+make+zippered+tutorial+red+writing+fabric.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
STEP 7: Embellish. Because what would a fancy ruffled clutch be without a little accessories?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8yaFKv3YdQ/TnzGxcbMLaI/AAAAAAAAA0g/lle5Gm9c_fs/s1600/Zippered+ruffle+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+make+and+print+on+fabric+red+writing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="516" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8yaFKv3YdQ/TnzGxcbMLaI/AAAAAAAAA0g/lle5Gm9c_fs/s640/Zippered+ruffle+clutch+diy+tutorial+how+to+make+and+print+on+fabric+red+writing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Ignore the fact that the zippers don't match. I'm a use-what-you-have kind of gal, remember? ;)<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
<em>Charlie</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-46322784889196711742011-09-08T08:49:00.060-07:002021-04-19T10:11:47.496-07:00$277 Complete Half Bath Renovation <p> Welcome to my new half bath (or my tenants' new half bath anyway).</p>
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugMnRSmT-sk/Tmj0m9J4T2I/AAAAAAAAAzM/NKmF25JAhZM/s1600/Replacing+door+knob+A.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugMnRSmT-sk/Tmj0m9J4T2I/AAAAAAAAAzM/NKmF25JAhZM/s640/Replacing+door+knob+A.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, after a few of the most chaotic months ever, we've finally settled
into our new home. And I brought my computer back from the dead (a
story for another day and possibly a tutorial)! :) <br />
<br />
I thought it would be appropriate for me to start the home renovation
series with the project we completed first: our half bathroom. We
thought this would be an easy weekend project, but somehow we managed to
drag it out over three weeks. Mostly we have a hard time agreeing on
things like flooring and vanities, so things that should take a day or
two end up getting put on the backburner for weeks... ha!<br />
<br />
First, I thought it would be fun to show you a really rough sketch of
our floorplan to give you a sense of what we're looking at:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fxyOWA0LuJ0/Tmjalk0fY_I/AAAAAAAAAyA/KUIixOqsFOE/s1600/Attempting+Aloha+Hawaii+floorplans.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fxyOWA0LuJ0/Tmjalk0fY_I/AAAAAAAAAyA/KUIixOqsFOE/s640/Attempting+Aloha+Hawaii+floorplans.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So this half bath is on the downstairs floor, and the strange corner
bump-out is the water heater that is accessed through the garage.<br />
<br />
Here are some stunning before pics. I'm sure you'll love these:<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kSKJ7XGnetE/TmjW1bLUS9I/AAAAAAAAAx8/fD8_8C_0bI8/s1600/Half+Bath+Vanity+before+with+large+light+and+mirror.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kSKJ7XGnetE/TmjW1bLUS9I/AAAAAAAAAx8/fD8_8C_0bI8/s640/Half+Bath+Vanity+before+with+large+light+and+mirror.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Love those pink/orange/brown cultured marble countertops! Classic generic faucet and builder's mirror and medicine cabinet.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUq4vYHMVQM/Tmja_ajfMFI/AAAAAAAAAyE/POxFbQsFDzI/s1600/Half+Bath+Vanity+before+and+flooring.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUq4vYHMVQM/Tmja_ajfMFI/AAAAAAAAAyE/POxFbQsFDzI/s640/Half+Bath+Vanity+before+and+flooring.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Amazing vinyl flooring with holes in it where one of the previous owners
had termite prevention holes dug all throughout the house... Laminate
vanity doors chipping and flaking off nicely. <br />
<br />
Here's a close-up of that vinyl and the awesome fauxboard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NRqXufSIV5o/TmjeyxP1D7I/AAAAAAAAAyM/Z94g28uQAXc/s1600/Half+bath+flooring+and+trim+before.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NRqXufSIV5o/TmjeyxP1D7I/AAAAAAAAAyM/Z94g28uQAXc/s640/Half+bath+flooring+and+trim+before.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Apparently they were going for a "safari" theme, so there was awful
wallpaper border along the top with elephants. Perfect for a bathroom,
no?<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vA7z9vBkkis/TmjgqrliQzI/AAAAAAAAAyg/u8oRlxe83jc/s1600/Half+Bath+before+with+hideous+wallpaper.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vA7z9vBkkis/TmjgqrliQzI/AAAAAAAAAyg/u8oRlxe83jc/s640/Half+Bath+before+with+hideous+wallpaper.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Despite the fact that the home is only a mere 25 years old, the humidity
and moisture age and rust anything metal considerably faster. So lots
of the metal corner trim throughout the house had to be replaced along
with lots of screws and other window hardware. This bathroom was no
exception. See where it's cracked at the bottom right? Underneath that
was completely rusted away and bowing out.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4jocztGQsU0/Tmjf_fa39HI/AAAAAAAAAyU/mFw6T82_a6g/s1600/Half+bath+rusty+window.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4jocztGQsU0/Tmjf_fa39HI/AAAAAAAAAyU/mFw6T82_a6g/s640/Half+bath+rusty+window.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's more of the wallpaper nightmare for your viewing pleasure.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4g-V3WFa87o/TmjgGoqdxGI/AAAAAAAAAyY/khGNcpNFEWI/s1600/Half+bath+wallpaper.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4g-V3WFa87o/TmjgGoqdxGI/AAAAAAAAAyY/khGNcpNFEWI/s640/Half+bath+wallpaper.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Truly, I think the lighting was the piece de resistance. Flourescent tube lighting at its finest.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D3YU2mW0S9w/TmjfO7YfdgI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/BUCi9YucRZ8/s1600/Half+bath+before+removing+flourescent+light+replace+sconces.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D3YU2mW0S9w/TmjfO7YfdgI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/BUCi9YucRZ8/s640/Half+bath+before+removing+flourescent+light+replace+sconces.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The vanity was moldy and rotten. So right after moving in, we actually
removed this cabinet right and replaced it with a temporary one that was
in the garage (they WERE using the garage as some sort of rental unit
or mother-in-law suite).<br />
<br />
EXHIBIT A: Carpeted garage and vanity<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlEbyM7uiCE/TmjcDt_TSPI/AAAAAAAAAyI/NBJmaXEKAJ4/s1600/Carpeted+garage+and+vanity.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlEbyM7uiCE/TmjcDt_TSPI/AAAAAAAAAyI/NBJmaXEKAJ4/s640/Carpeted+garage+and+vanity.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And this is the only shot I got of the vanity moved into the bathroom:<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xh3BlclhsYw/Tmji2ohiNTI/AAAAAAAAAyk/oQtIp1JXRSw/s1600/Half+Bath+mirror+before.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xh3BlclhsYw/Tmji2ohiNTI/AAAAAAAAAyk/oQtIp1JXRSw/s640/Half+Bath+mirror+before.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
After living like that for a couple months, I started ripping off
wallpaper and gutting the room. We found some tile we actually agreed on
(mostly because it was on clearance for $.88/sq ft at Lowes). So then
we did the big demo work removing the vanity (again), the medicine
cabinet, mirror, and light box. We kept the flourescent tubes tangling
for a few days... yeah, we're classy like that. ;)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogQVx5AtyjE/TmjkU1ZEoOI/AAAAAAAAAyo/AJu2Oxrcd2g/s1600/Half+Bath+during+renovating+removing+builders+mirror.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogQVx5AtyjE/TmjkU1ZEoOI/AAAAAAAAAyo/AJu2Oxrcd2g/s640/Half+Bath+during+renovating+removing+builders+mirror.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I considered leaving the builder's mirror and just framing it, but I
really wanted to change the lighting to sconces flanking the mirror, and
there wasn't an inch of room for it. I wish I could give you a great
tutorial on removing those beasts, and truly, I did all kinds of
research into finding the best way to remove it, but when I came into
the room to tell my husband what I'd read, he'd already removed it.
Apparently if you're He Man you can just rip it off the wall and carry
it out by yourself... At first I thought it was a fluke, but then he did
it two more times to both of our other bathrooms with mirror twice as
big as this one. "I HAVE THE POWERRRRR." </div>
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Ahem.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Moving on from the '80s.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Then we removed the vinyl, and I threw a party. Then we scraped the
floor and laid out the tile to decide how we wanted it. This part took
the longest. Someone shoot me.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE5w35v0ri8/TmjmPNLCBnI/AAAAAAAAAys/p8zkvHg8CpE/s1600/Half+Bath+tiling+c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE5w35v0ri8/TmjmPNLCBnI/AAAAAAAAAys/p8zkvHg8CpE/s640/Half+Bath+tiling+c.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
My husband still wishes we would have put a full piece right at the
transition (doorway), but I think it would have made the room seem even
smaller (as if that's possible), and I didn't want that corner to have
three small pieces meeting around it. Turns out it's mostly covered by a
rug anyway, though...<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_XMVDGPJj8/TmjmTtrhRNI/AAAAAAAAAyw/w-WUbvPnPB0/s1600/Half+Bath+tiling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_XMVDGPJj8/TmjmTtrhRNI/AAAAAAAAAyw/w-WUbvPnPB0/s640/Half+Bath+tiling.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We borrowed our neighbors' tile saw, and I let Scott do all the hard
work of setting the tile and cutting everything. Check out that
precision around the toilet! I wish I had a close up of that. He
painstakingly cut into the tiles to make them round to form around the
toilet hole, so there would be no gaps. Serious perfectionist, people.
Sometimes drives me batty. But it makes him an awesome doctor! lol<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9NPMZyoNtTw/TmjmXP7XxJI/AAAAAAAAAy0/nBbuBMXZYmU/s1600/Half+Bath+tiling+b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9NPMZyoNtTw/TmjmXP7XxJI/AAAAAAAAAy0/nBbuBMXZYmU/s640/Half+Bath+tiling+b.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We waited the full day to let the tile set, and then I got the messy job
of grouting. Again I tried researching as much as I could to find the
best way to do it, and I was following protocol for awhile...until I
realized I got the same results in much less time by just rubbing it in
with my hands. Ha! Lazy mom's grout job. ;)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GvIEnFoSVsU/TmjmaIp0PwI/AAAAAAAAAy4/KSuvDwJqaUs/s1600/Half+Bath+tiling+grout.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GvIEnFoSVsU/TmjmaIp0PwI/AAAAAAAAAy4/KSuvDwJqaUs/s640/Half+Bath+tiling+grout.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This next part will probably leave a few frustrated since I was again a
bad blogger and didn't take pics. But in my defense, we were just kind
of figuring it out as we went along, and it was nighttime, and we were
working with headlamps since we had removed the lighting.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We cheated and went through the back side of the wall. Since that side
is in the garage, and we didn't care if it was patchy in there and
didn't want to patch up the wall in the bathroom even more. It was a
nightmare to patch up and remove all the mirror mastic and the giant
hole left from the medicine cabinet (we left that out since this is a
half bath where no toiletries will be left). </div>
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Here's where we were when I finally thought to take a picture:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6lhdnoTNi4/TmjqwkrDFnI/AAAAAAAAAy8/VsxtcrGVVjs/s1600/Half+Bath+switching+lighting+to+sconces.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6lhdnoTNi4/TmjqwkrDFnI/AAAAAAAAAy8/VsxtcrGVVjs/s640/Half+Bath+switching+lighting+to+sconces.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
You'll also notice I replaced the "almond" outlets and light switches to white.<br />
<br />
I later gave these sconces a brushed nickel spraypaint treatment, but
they were only $4.99 at City Mill. I've seen them at Lowes for about the
same price. They came with a hideous glass, but I knew that was easily
fixable. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pRwER0Az_GA/TmjqzoOlKGI/AAAAAAAAAzA/O0LSjcqrfYA/s1600/Half+Bath+switching+lighting+to+sconces+wiring+diy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pRwER0Az_GA/TmjqzoOlKGI/AAAAAAAAAzA/O0LSjcqrfYA/s640/Half+Bath+switching+lighting+to+sconces+wiring+diy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Scott and I worked on the baseboard together. His perfectionism comes in
handy for projects like this. My "measure-once-cut-thrice" attitude
isn't quite as effective... ;)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pa8E_9KRVBQ/Tmjq621WacI/AAAAAAAAAzE/CtStvesJcds/s1600/Half+Bath+trim.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pa8E_9KRVBQ/Tmjq621WacI/AAAAAAAAAzE/CtStvesJcds/s640/Half+Bath+trim.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
But I'm excellent at caulking and painting all by myself. We did a
bright white for the baseboards and three of the walls, and the last
wall was an Oops! paint from Lowes. It was a Valspar brand paint, and
after painting our whole house with different brands of paint, I have to
admit that Valspar is my LEAST favorite...<br />
<br />
But I made it work!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7q1e4tGz96A/TmjrBfLCjrI/AAAAAAAAAzI/R7-uNVFSfjo/s1600/Half+bath+tiling+after+diy.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7q1e4tGz96A/TmjrBfLCjrI/AAAAAAAAAzI/R7-uNVFSfjo/s640/Half+bath+tiling+after+diy.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can see from my intro pic, I also hand painted the door, and I
replaced the doorknob with a new brushed nickel knob from Lowes.<br />
<br />
The vanity was also a Lowes score (no, I'm not being paid by Lowes...yeah, right). <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CpxwX1b9ag/Tmj1XJwqAUI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/ssTmjGSe3cE/s1600/Vanity+from+lowes+diy+install.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CpxwX1b9ag/Tmj1XJwqAUI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/ssTmjGSe3cE/s640/Vanity+from+lowes+diy+install.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLZIZhatBos/Tmj4nj7J1qI/AAAAAAAAAzU/P712FEWusas/s1600/Half+Bath.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLZIZhatBos/Tmj4nj7J1qI/AAAAAAAAAzU/P712FEWusas/s640/Half+Bath.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1_aiR6qNmE/Tmj447DzFWI/AAAAAAAAAzY/cryznwz05no/s1600/Half+Bath+after+vanity.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1_aiR6qNmE/Tmj447DzFWI/AAAAAAAAAzY/cryznwz05no/s640/Half+Bath+after+vanity.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The faucet came from a vanity set we bought for our master bathroom, and
that cost is included in that room, so the faucet was free for this
room. :) We chose to do oil rubbed bronze in the other bath, so this
one worked fine here.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTUveRl_4Ko/Tmj4_BsxmfI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Prd7z-MExvs/s1600/Half+Bath+after+vanity+C.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" nba="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTUveRl_4Ko/Tmj4_BsxmfI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Prd7z-MExvs/s640/Half+Bath+after+vanity+C.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And the mirror is a basic wall mirror also from Lowes for $25. We may change that out later, but it's fine for now.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xVUA_TQEh8/Tmj7x-OahMI/AAAAAAAAAzk/2HTwtqjzwC8/s1600/Pleated+Curtains+Tutorial+How+To.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xVUA_TQEh8/Tmj7x-OahMI/AAAAAAAAAzk/2HTwtqjzwC8/s640/Pleated+Curtains+Tutorial+How+To.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I finished off the bath with DIY pleated curtains. HERE'S my tutorial for making those.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZlwDB2v7co/Tmj7iC1fc9I/AAAAAAAAAzg/mlDaOepSu-8/s1600/Shabby+Chic+Bathroom+Wall+Art+L+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nba="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZlwDB2v7co/Tmj7iC1fc9I/AAAAAAAAAzg/mlDaOepSu-8/s640/Shabby+Chic+Bathroom+Wall+Art+L+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Oh, and I can't forget the last pretty detail!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5AdU3QX-hM/Tmj8oD0VyzI/AAAAAAAAAzo/c8iqW2dSNPs/s1600/How+to+Replace+a+Toilet+Handle+DIY+Z.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" nba="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5AdU3QX-hM/Tmj8oD0VyzI/AAAAAAAAAzo/c8iqW2dSNPs/s640/How+to+Replace+a+Toilet+Handle+DIY+Z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Total renovation costs:<br />
<br />
Vanity: $169<br />
Faucet: Free<br />
Sconces and wiring: $25<br />
Towel rack and tp holder: Free (it was the ONE updated thing already in the bathroom)<br />
Paint: About $15 (1/4 can of $5 Oops! paint. Primer and white paint were purchased in bulk and only used a tiny bit.)<br />
Tile: $10<br />
Grout: $10<br />
Trim: $16<br />
Window levers and new corner trim: $10<br />
Outlets and switches: $5<br />
<br />
TOTAL: $260<br />
<br />
Accessories: <br />
<br />
Curtain: $3<br />
Shadow Boxes: To buy from scratch, it would be about $30...I had most on-hand, so I only paid for the $10 clock<br />
Refurbished wood wall art: Free<br />
Coral hand towel x 2: $4<br />
<br />
TOTAL: $17<br />
<br />
Total bathroom renovating and decorating costs from the ground up: $277<br />
<br />
I'll show you details on the wall sconces later this week!<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
<br />
<em>Charlie</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-42758482189389719512011-02-16T10:59:00.007-08:002023-09-07T08:02:50.327-07:00How to Make Your Own Chalkboard Paint - DIY<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0Gm-Q2qubg/YHr7tMcmd2I/AAAAAAAAAcg/xVPsaXOwnDYvv2hCniUII0Kfd60kj7KiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/DIY%2BChalkboard%2BPaint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="152" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0Gm-Q2qubg/YHr7tMcmd2I/AAAAAAAAAcg/xVPsaXOwnDYvv2hCniUII0Kfd60kj7KiwCLcBGAsYHQ/w243-h320/DIY%2BChalkboard%2BPaint.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><br />Aloha!<p></p>
Today
I'm going to teach you how to make your very own chalkboard paint. FROM
SCRATCH! Yep, I first learned the secret ingredient from the craft
queen herself via her Martha Stewart Living Magazine. In their version,
they used a flat paint like you would purchase in the paint section at a
hardware store, but I really just wanted a smaller quantity to do a few
Honeysuckle accents around my house and for Valentine's gifts, so I
thought I'd do some experimenting on my own with regular old acrylic
craft paints and different proportions.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's what you will need:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Dry Non-Sanded Grout</strong> (purchased this huge tin at our local City Mill hardware store for $1.50...this will probably last me forever)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Acrylic craft paints</strong> - White, Black, and Bright Magenta (Apple Barrel line by Plaid, found at Wal-mart)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">NOTE:
Our craft stores here on the island are somewhat lacking, so I wasn't
able to find anything perfectly matching Honeysuckle. I will give you my
"formula" with those combined colors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Measuring spoons and cups</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Mixing cup or bowl</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Paint brush or stick to stir</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzrMpaaJI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zwhPXaEFLcA/s1600/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+J.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzrMpaaJI/AAAAAAAAAgg/zwhPXaEFLcA/w240-h320/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+J.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Step 1)</strong>
Measure 1.5 teaspoons of the non-sanded grout and put in your mixing
cup (this is very dusty, so please do this in a well-ventilated area).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE3_FZt4HI/AAAAAAAAAgo/iA1JXEHE82I/s1600/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+A.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE3_FZt4HI/AAAAAAAAAgo/iA1JXEHE82I/w240-h320/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+A.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<strong>Step 2)</strong> Pour in 1/4 C. of the <strike>Pepto Bismol </strike> Bright Magenta craft paint.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzojVc3tI/AAAAAAAAAgc/_RKIo2cagJs/s1600/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+H.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzojVc3tI/AAAAAAAAAgc/_RKIo2cagJs/w240-h320/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+H.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<strong>Step 3)</strong> Add 1.5 teaspoons of white acrylic craft paint.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzmQpem7I/AAAAAAAAAgY/RC3e5pb_C5s/s1600/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+G.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzmQpem7I/AAAAAAAAAgY/RC3e5pb_C5s/w240-h320/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+G.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
At that point, I really liked the color, but I was going for perfection,
and I had the Pantone website up and was trying my very best to match
what I saw on the screen. I could tell I needed to mute it slightly with
some black.<br />
<br />
<strong>Step 4)</strong> Add 1/8 teaspoon black acrylic craft paint.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzkg2X0rI/AAAAAAAAAgU/oYCX8cPOuto/s1600/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+F.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzkg2X0rI/AAAAAAAAAgU/oYCX8cPOuto/w240-h320/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+F.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<strong>Step 5)</strong> Stir for a couple minutes with a cheap paintbrush or stick. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzto1PvrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/x3xsz8GWwKQ/s1600/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+K.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVEzto1PvrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/x3xsz8GWwKQ/w240-h320/DIY+Chalkboard+Paint+K.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(I'm not really left-handed, but I stink at taking pics with my left hand! ha)</div><div><br />
</div><div>This next pic is to show you that
the consistency WILL BE SLIGHTLY LUMPY still. The grout is very fine, so
when you brush it on, it spreads right out and isn't noticable at all.</div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE6ceb_xrI/AAAAAAAAAgs/IFT_s5Ktzuw/s1600/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+B.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE6ceb_xrI/AAAAAAAAAgs/IFT_s5Ktzuw/s320/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+B.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both;"><strong>Step 6)</strong> Apply it with a sponge brush.</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE7-TB_g8I/AAAAAAAAAg0/776h4Qlgl3g/s1600/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+C.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE7-TB_g8I/AAAAAAAAAg0/776h4Qlgl3g/s320/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+C.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><div align="center">(Hey, look! I took a pic with my left hand!)</div><div align="center"><br />
</div>You will need between 1 and 3 coats depending on your medium. For
my wooden calendar, I used 3 coats on top of a piece of 1/8" MDF (I
primed with Zinsser water-based primer).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As
with any chalkboard paint, you will need to prep the surface once it is
completely dry by rubbing a piece of chalk across the entire board
(easiest if you turn the chalk on its side). Then erase completely, and
it's ready to go!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE9FKsGlfI/AAAAAAAAAg4/-lLIeZHa-Yk/s1600/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE9FKsGlfI/AAAAAAAAAg4/-lLIeZHa-Yk/s320/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+D.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE91ypEq4I/AAAAAAAAAg8/76dztEKZ9OA/s1600/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+E.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="299" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVE91ypEq4I/AAAAAAAAAg8/76dztEKZ9OA/s320/How+to+make+chalkboard+paint+E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I also used it on some cardboard cereal boxes and made chalkboard
Chinese take-out boxes. I've been planning to do this for my daughter to
take to school as gifts and was excited to have some Honeysuckle to
use! <br />
<br />
This time I only did one layer, and I did not prime it. I just cut the
box and painted directly on the inside with the chalkboard paint. Then I
used the Chinese take-out box pattern I designed and cut it out. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVFA3CfPdcI/AAAAAAAAAhI/251Rbt3Mc10/s1600/How+make+Chinese+take+out+boxes+b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVFA3CfPdcI/AAAAAAAAAhI/251Rbt3Mc10/s320/How+make+Chinese+take+out+boxes+b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVFA2EBwF8I/AAAAAAAAAhE/77ceqhro9cE/s1600/Make+your+own+Chinese+takeout+box+B.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TVFA2EBwF8I/AAAAAAAAAhE/77ceqhro9cE/s400/Make+your+own+Chinese+takeout+box+B.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
So with that one bowl of Honeysuckle, I covered a 28"x18" board x 3
coats, and a 12"x15" cardboard box x 3! Total cost for this chalkboard
paint project is about $.35. I can handle that. :)<br />
<br />
This opens up SO many new chalkboard color possibilities! I'd love to hear what you're chalking up!<br />
<br />
Aloha,<br />
Charlie<br />
<br />
Update: I was asked how long I let each coat dry since the spray paint
chalkboard stuff says to let it dry one day between coats.
Truth-be-told, I'm super impatient, and I was in a rush! I painted each
layer, then used my blow dryer to dry it until it was really dry to
sight and touch. Seriously dries really fast! Just like any old acrylic
paint project! Yet another advantage to DIY'ing! Sweet. ;)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.whisperwoodcottage.com/2011/04/chalk-talk-linky-party-april-16-30link.html" target="_blank"><img height="150" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_o0tPBHHK4UU/TXwhzgoy8eI/AAAAAAAAGLc/P11VlD1j8BM/s800/chalktalk-party.png" /></a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6460946096262264968.post-38946976295232112472010-11-24T06:23:00.018-08:002023-09-07T08:20:47.196-07:00Pottery Barn Kids Lamp Knock-off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TPMTqe5nHLI/AAAAAAAAAP0/8KJPKUuLBVo/s1600/PB+flower+Lamp+knock+off.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TPMTqe5nHLI/AAAAAAAAAP0/8KJPKUuLBVo/s400/PB+flower+Lamp+knock+off.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>So I had to take a break from all the Christmas crafting. It was getting a little depressing having a whole bunch of fun new decorations that I still can't put up because my living room is torn apart...<br /><br />So I moved back to doing the girls' room again for a minute.<br /><br />I've been loving PB's girly lamp for quite awhile:<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><div style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium;"><span style="color: #3a75b0;"><span style="border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-width: initial; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3j1JoWY5I/AAAAAAAAAPo/tGX4ICbX8L0/s1600/PB+Pink+Flower+Lamp.jpg"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3j1JoWY5I/AAAAAAAAAPo/tGX4ICbX8L0/s320/PB+Pink+Flower+Lamp.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a></span></span></div></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 11.88px;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3j1JoWY5I/AAAAAAAAAPo/tGX4ICbX8L0/s1600/PB+Pink+Flower+Lamp.jpg">Pottery Barn Kids</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />I knew my poor little Target lamp had the perfect make-over potential. She was just waiting for her day at the spa for a facelift!<br /><br />I purchased this on clearance about 4 years ago. I know I wouldn't have spent more than $15 for it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TUc7peAI/AAAAAAAAAOw/3YaYBt6JeSg/s1600/Pink+Lamp+B.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TUc7peAI/AAAAAAAAAOw/3YaYBt6JeSg/s320/Pink+Lamp+B.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a></div><br />I started by ripping about a <strike>million and seven</strike> 65 strips 20" x 2".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TXiDdfRI/AAAAAAAAAO0/pj4gCJ2J0sg/s1600/Pink+Lamp+C.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="436" ox="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TXiDdfRI/AAAAAAAAAO0/pj4gCJ2J0sg/s320/Pink+Lamp+C.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="327" /></a></div><br />Then I had to de-thread the edges. The charmeuse fabric I used was SOOO stringy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Tc6S2QUI/AAAAAAAAAO4/fhHaPYFoVe0/s1600/Pink+Lamp+D.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="429" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Tc6S2QUI/AAAAAAAAAO4/fhHaPYFoVe0/s320/Pink+Lamp+D.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="322" /></a></div><br />Then I stitched down the sides with the tension on the tightest and stitch length on the longest. So for my Singer Simple that meant turning the knob on the left to 9 and the one on the right to 4. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Thu5edVI/AAAAAAAAAO8/cE1bI4r4J6Q/s1600/Pink+Lamp+E.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="317" ox="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Thu5edVI/AAAAAAAAAO8/cE1bI4r4J6Q/s320/Pink+Lamp+E.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="422" /></a></div><br />I didn't worry about backstitching ends or anything. Just zipped them out really fast and ended up with a big pile of fluff:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TnozD3xI/AAAAAAAAAPA/gXFTPlR63aU/s1600/Pink+Lamp+F.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="424" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TnozD3xI/AAAAAAAAAPA/gXFTPlR63aU/s320/Pink+Lamp+F.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="318" /></a></div><br />Before this, I did attempt to do a different flower I've seen lots lately. The one on the right was rolled. I actually liked it better, but they took much longer, and they took up less space, so I would have had to do two million instead of just one million...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TtDiO1fI/AAAAAAAAAPE/xHkDbf49blw/s1600/Pink+Lamp+G.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="311" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TtDiO1fI/AAAAAAAAAPE/xHkDbf49blw/s320/Pink+Lamp+G.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="414" /></a></div><br />Since I had so many to do and since I knew it wasn't going on something that will be touched or played with, I figured I'd cheat and skip any hand-stitching of the ruffles when rolling them into flowers. I just cut out circles of flannel (it's what I had on hand) and hot glued the flowers right to the circles.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TyiiASpI/AAAAAAAAAPI/5LOZ_4l1dQU/s1600/Pink+Lamp+H.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="374" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TyiiASpI/AAAAAAAAAPI/5LOZ_4l1dQU/s320/Pink+Lamp+H.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="281" /></a></div><br />Under side after flowers were glued to circles.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3T4b1BAnI/AAAAAAAAAPM/bh8ynTMlgCc/s1600/Pink+Lamp+I.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="392" ox="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3T4b1BAnI/AAAAAAAAAPM/bh8ynTMlgCc/s320/Pink+Lamp+I.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="294" /></a></div><br />I kept three ruffled strips and glued a strip at the bottom:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3T-X6KlsI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/aWidV_lyljM/s1600/Pink+Lamp+J.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="390" ox="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3T-X6KlsI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/aWidV_lyljM/s320/Pink+Lamp+J.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="292" /></a></div><br />Then started gluing on the flowers:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UE_ptnxI/AAAAAAAAAPU/ZvfroXqai4o/s1600/Pink+Lamp+K.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="417" ox="true" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UE_ptnxI/AAAAAAAAAPU/ZvfroXqai4o/s320/Pink+Lamp+K.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="313" /></a></div><br />I used the one lonely rolled flower to put over the pull chain temporarily. I plan to buy a cute jewel to put there instead.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3ULYQVxWI/AAAAAAAAAPY/k8hQRWqoh-Q/s1600/Pink+Lamp+M.JPG" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="433" ox="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3ULYQVxWI/AAAAAAAAAPY/k8hQRWqoh-Q/s320/Pink+Lamp+M.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="325" /></a></div><br />Here she is all lit up at night:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UVZZEIVI/AAAAAAAAAPc/vnp7Kmc4YVU/s1600/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+N.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="401" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UVZZEIVI/AAAAAAAAAPc/vnp7Kmc4YVU/s320/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+N.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="306" /></a></div><br />And in her new home:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Uf67GfiI/AAAAAAAAAPg/S8ZIJ3u_FW4/s1600/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+O.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="434" ox="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3Uf67GfiI/AAAAAAAAAPg/S8ZIJ3u_FW4/s320/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+O.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="331" /></a></div><br />She has lovely views!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UrDPL4tI/AAAAAAAAAPk/4QfhjBMMGPA/s1600/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+P.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="424" ox="true" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3UrDPL4tI/AAAAAAAAAPk/4QfhjBMMGPA/s320/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+P.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="323" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Quick recap:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TPBRKqeyzWI/AAAAAAAAAPw/RaT9obm915Q/s1600/PB+comp+square.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="413" ox="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TPBRKqeyzWI/AAAAAAAAAPw/RaT9obm915Q/s320/PB+comp+square.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="413" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TP29m3_I/AAAAAAAAAOs/1yC7wQYFfnc/s1600/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+A.jpg" style="color: #3a75b0; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="477" ox="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7GDWF1D9h2o/TO3TP29m3_I/AAAAAAAAAOs/1yC7wQYFfnc/s400/PB+Flower+Lamp+knock+off+A.jpg" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="364" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both;">Aloha,</div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium; clear: both;">Charlie</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0